bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Performance comparison of Islamic and conventional banks: empirical evidence from Pakistan
Authors: Khan Imran , Khan Mehreen , Tahir Muhammad 
Published: June 2017

Purpose
This study aims to investigate the performance differences of Islamic and conventional banks in Pakistan by using financial ratios.

Design/methodology/approach
This study analyzed 5 Islamic and 19 conventional banks for the periods of 2007-2014. Two types of analyses were performed – sample t-test and logistic regression. Analysis was also performed on sub-sample considering crisis effects.

Findings
It was found that Islamic banks are relatively better in profitability, efficiency, risk and liquidity management, while conventional banks are superior in asset quality. Higher efficiency of Islamic banks contradicts with previous studies conducted in Pakistan. Probable reasons for this include phenomenal expansion of Islamic banking industry and its broad appeal to customers in Pakistan. Risk management practices of Islamic banks are superior to conventional banks, as Shariah rules restrict pure speculation in monetary terms. Better asset quality of conventional banks is attributed to their recognition and product diversity. During the crisis, Islamic banks were found less profitable than their counterparts.

Research limitations/implications
This study suggests that high operational efficiency of Islamic banks should be converted into technical efficiency by improving human resource, introducing innovative market-oriented products and prudent resource allocations. As operational efficiency does not promise returns in long term, to sustain ongoing phenomenal growth of Islamic banking, management needs to gain customer trust.

Originality/value
This is an original research that compares performance differences across Islamic and conventional banks by using financial ratios.
Mental capacity and deprivation of liberty: the Law Commission’s review of the deprivation of liberty safeguards
Authors: Spencer-Lane Tim 
Published: June 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to provide a brief overview of the Law Commission’s final report and recommendations on the reform of the deprivation of liberty safeguards under the Mental Capacity Act.

Design/methodology/approach
Summary of main report.

Findings
The proposals contained in the Law Commision Review and proposals for law reform are outlined.

Originality/value
This is a summary.
Bringing project and change management roles into sync
Authors: Pádár Katalin , Pataki Béla , Sebestyén Zoltán 
Published: June 2017

Purpose
Change management (CM) and project management (PM) literatures examine the key roles (change agent, project manager, project or change sponsor) played during projects or changes only from their respective points of view. They do so even in cases where projects and changes occur at the same time – or are so-called change projects. In such cases, effective management should utilize both scientific fields’ bodies of knowledge (BoK). The purpose of this paper is to unfold how and in which domain(s) typical roles of the two disciplines correspond to each other.

Design/methodology/approach
This paper is a systematic, bi-disciplinary meta-review that simultaneously studies relevant literature on roles performed during projects and changes. The common domain of CM and PM was identified; the systematic review and comparison of role definitions followed.

Findings
This paper examines and illustrates the correspondence of 7 CM and 14 PM roles; e.g., “sponsor” refers to the same role and “change agent” and “project manager” are corresponding ones, referring to the same role up to a certain degree.

Research limitations/implications
This paper does not provide an exhaustive overview of various instances of different role (and stakeholder) interpretations.

Practical implications
Findings should facilitate the better management of changes that require CM-type and PM-type capabilities and actions.

Originality/value
As a result of the meta-review, two CM roles were re(de)fined. Linking PM and CM roles provides common ground on which practitioners of both fields can rely. A step-by-step tool for the identification of such cases in practice, when both types of roles should be played and both BoK can be utilized complementarily, was developed.
Co-producing formulation within a secure setting: a co-authorship with a service user and the clinical team
Authors: Lewis-Morton Ruth , Harding Sarah , Lloyd April , Macleod Alison , Burton Simon , James Lee 
Published: June 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore the process of co-producing a formulation alongside a service user and the clinical team within a secure inpatient service. This paper has been co-authored by the service user and members of the multi-disciplinary team (MDT).

Design/methodology/approach
An open-ended focus group discussion was facilitated with the service user and members of her MDT. The process of thematic analysis was applied to the focus group transcript.

Findings
The following themes highlighted important outcomes of co-producing a formulation within a secure inpatient setting; “Meaningful Collaboration”, “Co-Produced Understanding” and a “Shift in Power Differential”. This paper demonstrates the importance of meaningful co-production within a secure inpatient service whilst also highlighting the challenges and tensions of working in a co-produced way within this context.

Research limitations/implications
This paper explores the process of co-producing and developing a formulation from the perspective of one service user and their MDT within a secure inpatient setting. It would be unhelpful to extrapolate broad assumptions from this case study although this study does raise important considerations for future research and encourages an emphasis on a co-produced design and dissemination.

Practical implications
This case study highlights the importance of co-production in clinical endeavours, service delivery and development perspectives and in the dissemination of this information.

Originality/value
The importance of co-producing and co-authoring alongside service users have been highlighted in this paper. This approach to co-production and co-authorship is highly recommended in future research endeavours.
Future of student housing: meeting emerging student needs
Authors: McBride Yasamina 
Published: June 2017

Purpose
The paper aims to examine the current state of on-campus student housing, emerging student needs and forecast possible scenarios for the student housing market by the year 2030.

Design/methodology/approach
This paper describes Houston Framework Foresight Method.

Findings
The percentage of students that are traditional college-age, those most interested in living on campus, is becoming smaller. Increasingly, the markets of growth for colleges and universities is found by engaging students at a distance. Additionally, even students that live within commuting distance to campus often attend classes by virtual means and improved delivery technologies will only make this option more attractive. Many on-campus housing strategic plans contain buildings that meet the needs of the students of today not the students of tomorrow. By assessing the impact of the key trends, administrators can make better choices for their campus.

Research limitations/implications
Recommendations are based on a combination of the best available research and analysis and is not intended to act as a predictor of the future. This paper presents only one of many possible futures that were developed based on recognized forecasting methods.

Originality/value
This paper presents a recommended response for administrators to consider when approaching student housing projects over the next decade.
Nine emerging student needs
Authors: Hines Andrew , Whittington Alexandra 
Published: June 2017

Purpose
A research project exploring emerging student needs explored six aspects of student life: living, learning, working, playing, connecting and participating.

Design/methodology/approach
A modified version of the University of Houston’s “Framework Foresight” method was used to explore the future of six aspects of future student life. The resulting scenarios were analyzed for their implications, including the use of the World Café technique, and ultimately led to the identification of nine emerging student needs.

Findings
Nine specific emerging needs of future students could be used strategically by institutions of higher education to guide and inform planning and to generate innovative ideas for university offerings. Specific examples of offerings that would meet the projected future needs are recommended.

Research limitations/implications
In terms of research limitations, the paper is focused on the needs of students and does not purport to be an exhaustive analysis of all of the issues influencing higher education. It views the future of higher education through the lens of students and their emerging needs.

Practical implications
The paper is intended for educators, researchers and administrators to provide insight on how the needs of students, their key customers, are evolving.

Originality/value
This piece explores student life in its totality as way to more accurately identify student needs in the future.
Down‐regulation of long non‐coding RNA MALAT1 by RNA interference inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis in multiple myeloma
Authors: Liu Hui , Wang Huihan , Wu Bin , Yao Kun , Liao Aijun , Miao Miao , Li Yang , Yang Wei 
Published: June 2017

SummaryMultiple myeloma (MM) is a neoplastic plasma‐cell disorder characterized by abnormal proliferation of monoclonal plasma cells in the bone marrow. Metastasis‐associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1), an evolutionarily highly conserved long non‐coding RNA was originally identified in metastatic non‐small cell lung cancer and has been reported to be up‐regulated in many other cancers. However, the function of MALAT1 in MM remains unknown. In the present study, by transfecting MM cells with MALAT1‐specific short hairpin RNA (shRNA) expression plasmids, the role of MALAT1 in the proliferation and apoptosis of MM cells was investigated in vitro, and the tumorigenicity of MALAT1‐silenced cells was evaluated in vivo. MALAT1 was found to be highly expressed in RPMI8226 and U266 cells. Down‐regulation of MALAT1 via RNA interference significantly inhibited the proliferation of MM cells through cell cycle arrest at G1 phase. Moreover, knockdown of MALAT1 induced apoptosis, which was closely associated with the activation of caspase‐3/‐9, down‐regulation of Bcl‐2 and up‐regulation of Bax. In addition, silencing of MALAT1 by intratumoral injection of MALAT1 shRNA attenuated the tumour growth in mice bearing myeloma xenograft and led to massive apoptosis in the xenograft tumour. Therefore, MALAT1 may serve as a promising target in the genetic therapeutic strategy for MM treatment.
Larvicidal activity of some fungal extracts onAedes caspiusandCulex pipiens(Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Al‐Mekhlafi Fahd A. 
Published: June 2017

AbstractA preliminary study was conducted to evaluate the effects of nine methanol fungal extracts on fourth instar larvae ofAedes caspiusandCulex pipiens(Diptera: Culicidae). None of the extracts tested showed larvicidal activity except for thePaecilomyces lilacinusextract, which showed 100 % mortality against the larvae ofAe caspiusafter 24 h. The LC50values of theP. lilacinusextract after 24 h were 190.66 μg/mL againstAe. caspiusand 254.25 μg/mL againstCx. pipiens, respectively. After 48 h, meanwhile, the LC50values were 65.70 and 164.13 μg/mL, respectively. Histological analysis of the midgut of the treated larvae ofAe. caspiusandCx. pipiensrevealed changes such as cell destruction, spacing between the cells and disruption of the microvilli, resulting in an appearance of vacuolization in the midgut. This article is the first report of the use ofP. lilacinusextract for the control ofAe. caspiusandCx. pipienslarvae and the data obtained may help to provide a better understanding of the mode of action ofP. lilacinusas an insecticide against mosquito larvae.
Radiation oncology directors of training survey 2016: Perspectives and challenges
Authors: Leung John , Lehman Margot 
Published: June 2017

AbstractIntroductionThis paper reports the key findings of the first survey of Australian and New Zealand Radiation Oncology Directors of Training (DoTs) dealing with their perspectives, experiences and challenges.MethodsThe survey was conducted in September 2016 using a 34‐question instrument. It was emailed to all radiation oncology DoTs listed on the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (RANZCR) database. The questions related to demographics, protected time, weekly activities, support, the value of curriculum assessments, challenges and suggested improvements. Respondents were assured that their responses were anonymous.ResultsThe response rate was 59.6% (31/52). The median age of respondents was in the 41 to 45 age bracket, but nearly one quarter were over 45 years of age. The median time respondents had been in the role was three to five years (range <0.5 to >10) with the median number of trainees supervised being four (range 1–8). Thirty‐five percent had a co DoT. DoTs spent a median of three hours per week on the role (range <1 to >8) with most respondents (67.7%) requiring time during and out of work performing the role, but ten percent claimed it was done out of hours only. Nearly all DoTs were aware they should have protected time, but only just half received it. The educational aspects of training dominated weekly activities, but rostering, specific trainee issues and administration were also featured. Time issues were the greatest challenge for respondents with clinical assignments the most challenging assessment. However, more emphasis on contouring and planning was thought to be required. All DoTs found the dedicated DoT workshops useful, but felt future discussions on trainees in difficulty could be emphasized. The vast majority felt supported by their training site and the College. All respondents believed in the role with most having an interest in educational activities. The majority of respondents (85%) intended to continue in the role for the next 1 to 2 years, but this dropped to 45% when asked about continuing for 5 years.ConclusionsThis survey of predominantly experienced DoTs, indicated that the role was deemed to be of value in delivering optimal training. The most significant challenges faced by DoTs were finding sufficient time to deal with the responsibilities of the role and dealing with underperforming trainees. Feedback on the currently employed work based assessments will be considered as FRO transitions into programmatic assessment. Furthermore, a desire for training in how to deal with trainees in difficulty, underperforming or unsuitable trainees is noted. Future work is planned following refinements of the survey instrument; and, will also explore stress and burnout in the DoT cohort.
Pioglitazone attenuates atrial remodeling and vulnerability to atrial fibrillation in alloxan‐induced diabetic rabbits
Authors: Liu Changle , Liu Ruimeng , Fu Huaying , Li Jian , Wang Xinghua , Cheng Lijun , Korantzopoulos Panagiotis , Tse Gary , Li Guangping , Liu Tong 
Published: June 2017

SummaryBackground/AimsRecent evidence indicates that peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR)‐γ activators exert anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant actions. However, the underlying mechanisms by which these agents prevent atrial remodeling in diabetes are not completely elucidated. We sought to investigate the potential effects of pioglitazone, a PPAR‐γ activator, on atrial remodeling and atrial fibrillation (AF) inducibility in diabetic rabbits.MethodsAlloxan‐induced diabetic rabbits were randomly divided into three groups: diabetes only, diabetes treated with low‐dose pioglitazone (4 mg/day/kg), or diabetes treated with high‐dose pioglitazone (8 mg/day/kg) (n=24 for each group). A total of 24 healthy rabbits served as controls. Eight weeks later, hemodynamic, echocardiographic, and electrophysiological parameters were recorded. Left atrial whole‐cell patch‐clamp studies, histological examination, and Western blot analysis were also performed.ResultsIn the DM group (6/8 vs 1/8, P<.05), higher AF inducibility, increased amount of fibrosis, lower INa, and higher ICaL were observed in the DM group compared to controls. Western blot analysis showed that DM increased the expression of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 2 (ERK2), phosphorylation ERK, transforming growth factor beta‐1, Toll‐like receptor 4, nuclear factor‐κB p50, and heat‐shock protein 70. All of these electrophysiological, histological, ion current density, and protein expression changes were all reduced by pioglitazone.ConclusionPioglitazone attenuates diabetes‐induced structural and electrophysiological remodeling in the atria, thereby reducing the vulnerability to AF.
Europe, the End of the West and Global Power Shifts
Authors: Schwarzer Daniela 
Published: June 2017

AbstractRelative economic, political, and military power is undoubtedly shifting away from the West, most notably to Asia, but also to other world regions. Moreover, non‐state actors and cross‐border flows increasingly pose challenges to Western states’ capacity for crisis management. Consequently, the liberal world order and its governance structures have come under pressure. Even more fundamental is the emerging challenge to the notion of the ‘West’ as a group of countries led by the United States and unified around core values and principles. The 2016USelection results raise serious doubts about the futureUSadministration's resolve to abide by liberal democratic norms both internally and in their international relations. Whether deliberately or indirectly in the pursuit of other goals, theUSmay undermine the already weakened rules‐based international system and thereby accelerate the decline of the West's material and ideological hegemony. In light of these potential conflicts, European governments must take immediate action to prepare for a new global order. They must first strengthen their own countries and enhance the internal coherence of the Union. Second, they must improve the crisis management facilities and strategic capacities within their borders as well as within the euro area and theEU.
Britain's Economic Outlook after Brexit
Authors: Yueh Linda 
Published: June 2017

AbstractIn a historic referendum, Britain has voted to leave the European Union. Some of the polling suggests that a backlash against globalisation played a role, alongside themes such as sovereignty and immigration. The government has insisted that Britain will maintain its global outlook, but how challenging will that be in the face of disengaging from the world's biggest economic entity and forging a novel path? The UK is doing so with some notable weaknesses in its large trade deficit. This article explores the economic uncertainties of Brexit and potential ways forward.
Small RNAs induce the activation of the pro‐inflammatory TLR7 signaling pathway in aged rat kidney
Authors: Lee Eun Kyeong , Chung Ki Wung , Kim Ye Ra , Ha Sugyeong , Kim Sung Dae , Kim Dae Hyun , Jung Kyung Jin , Lee Bonggi , Im Eunok , Yu Byung Pal , Chung Hae Young 
Published: June 2017

SummaryWe have recently reported that TLR‐related genes, including TLR7, are upregulated during aging. However, the role of TLR7 and its endogenous ligand in inflammation related to aging is not well defined. Here, we established that small RNAs trigger age‐related renal inflammation via TLR7 signaling pathway. We first investigated the expression changes of nine different TLRs in kidney of 6‐month‐old young rats and 20‐month‐old aged rats. The results revealed that the expression of TLR7 was the highest among nine TLRs in kidney of old rats compared to the young aged rats. Next, to assess the role of cellular RNA as a TLR7 ligand, we treated a renal tubular epithelial cell line with total RNA isolated from the kidney of young and old rats. The results showed that RNA isolated from old rats showed higher expression of TLR7, IL1β, and TNFα compared to that from young rats. Furthermore, RNA isolated from old rats induced IKKα/β/JNK/NF‐κB activation. To identify RNA that activates TLR7, we isolated small and large RNAs from old rat kidney and found that small RNAs increased TLR7 expression in cells. Finally, to investigate the local inflammatory response by small RNA, C57B/L6 mice were intraperitoneally injected with small RNAs isolated from young and old rats; thereby, RNA isolated from old rats induced higher inflammatory responses. Our study demonstrates that renal small RNAs from aged rats induce pro‐inflammatory processes via the activation of the TLR7/IKKα/β/JNK/NF‐κB signaling pathway, and highlights its causative role as a possible therapeutic target in age‐related chronic renal inflammation.
Comorbidities in adults with asthma: Population‐based cross‐sectional analysis of 1.4 million adults in Scotland
Authors: Weatherburn C. J. , Guthrie B. , Mercer S. W. , Morales D. R. 
Published: June 2017

SummaryBackgroundComorbidity in people with asthma can significantly increase asthma morbidity and lower adherence to asthma guidelines.ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to comprehensively measure the prevalence of physical and mental health comorbidities in adults with asthma using a large nationally representative population.MethodsCross‐sectional analysis of routine primary care electronic medical records for 1 424 378 adults in the UK, examining the prevalence of 39 comorbidities in people with and without asthma, before and after adjustment for age, sex, social deprivation and smoking status using logistic regression.ResultsOf 39 comorbidities measured, 36 (92%) were significantly more common in adults with asthma; 62.6% of adults with asthma had ≥1 comorbidity vs 46.2% of those without, and 16.3% had ≥4 comorbidities vs 8.7% of those without. Comorbidities with the largest absolute increase in prevalence in adults with asthma were as follows: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (13.4% vs 3.1%), depression (17.3% vs 9.1%), painful conditions (15.4% vs 8.4%) and dyspepsia (10.9% vs 5.2%). Comorbidities with the largest relative difference in adults with asthma compared to those without were as follows: COPD (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 5.65, 95% CI 5.52‐5.79), bronchiectasis (aOR 4.65, 95% CI 4.26‐5.08), eczema/psoriasis (aOR 3.30, 95% CI 3.14‐3.48), dyspepsia (aOR 2.20, 95% CI 2.15‐2.25) and chronic sinusitis (aOR 2.12, 95% CI 1.99‐2.26). Depression and anxiety were more common in adults with asthma (aOR 1.60, 95% CI 1.57‐1.63, and aOR 1.53, 95% CI 1.48‐1.57, respectively).Conclusions and Clinical RelevancePhysical and mental health comorbidities are the norm in adults with asthma. Appropriate recognition and management should form part of routine asthma care.