bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assessing Local Government Debt Risks in China: A Case Study of Local Government Financial Vehicles
Authors: Tao Kunyu 
Published: September 2015

AbstractStrong credit expansion in China after the recent global financial crisis has brought local government financial vehicles (LGFV) into the spotlight. Rapid growth of LGFV has triggered concern about local government indebtedness, banks' asset quality and, more broadly, China's medium‐term financial stability and sovereign risk. This paper constructs a unique firm‐level dataset to evaluate the country's local government debt. We find an uneven distribution of LGFV, which are concentrated in the coastal areas, and a deterioration of their debt repaying ability from 2010 to 2012. We use principal component analysis (PCA) along with multivariate discriminate analysis (MDA) to identify the credit risk of LGFV based on conventional financial variables as well as local governments' fiscal status. We also estimate the safe boundaries of debt bearing at the provincial government level. The estimations reveal more severe local government debt risks in the middle‐western provinces and higher risks associated with LGFV at the municipal and county levels. Although it is very unlikely that there will be a national debt crisis in China, the high risk of LGFV should be noted and effectively controlled by improving the fiscal transparency of local governments and reforming the fiscal system.
Crisis, Stimulus Package and Migration in China
Authors: Csanádi Maria , Nie Zihan , Li Shi 
Published: September 2015

AbstractThis paper analyzes the short‐term and long‐term effects that the global economic crisis and the investment priorities of the Chinese Government's stimulus package had on Chinese migrant flows between 2008 and 2014. Combining micro‐level household survey data and macro‐level statistics, the authors have found that in the short run, the regional and sectoral impact of the crisis, combined with the government's investment priorities, caused a reorientation of migration routes from the export‐oriented coastal provinces towards the central and western regions, from inter‐provincial migration towards intra‐provincial migration, and from manufacturing industry towards the construction sector. However, in the longer run, the decreasing attractiveness of the eastern region and the increasing attractiveness of the western region proved to be transitory, although the pre‐crisis relative advantage of the eastern region was not fully restored. What proved to be persistent were the attractiveness of the central region and the intra‐provincial migration in all three regions, and, in particular, the steady growth of migrants in the construction sector.
The Structure of China's Imports: A New Framework
Authors: Wei Hao , Zhao Chunming 
Published: September 2015

AbstractUsing the elbow function method to determine the number of classification groups of goods and applying the K‐means algorithm to classify technical goods, this paper constructs a scientific classification framework of commodity structure and then measures the changes in China's import commodity structure. It is found, first, that from 2000 to 2012, the import commodity structure in China underwent structural change. Shares of non‐agricultural primary products and high‐technology products increased significantly, whereas shares of low–medium‐technology products and medium–high‐technology products declined. Second, from 2000 to 2006, the overall technology level of China's imports declined, but then increased from 2007 to 2012. Therefore, the Chinese Government should increase the share of high‐technology and extra‐high‐technology products in total imports to stimulate structural transformation in manufacturing industries to make full use of foreign advanced technology and to prevent stepping into a low‐end import commodity structure.
Habitat association and coexistence of endemic and introduced ant species in the Galápagos Islands
Authors: WAUTERS NINA , DEKONINCK WOUTER , HENDRICKX FREDERIK , HERRERA HENRI W. , FOURNIER DENIS 
Published: September 2015

1. We investigated ant communities in all main vegetation zones of the model island of Santa Cruz in the Galápagos archipelago (155 collection points, spread over 21 sites; 28 ant species collected), and evaluated the distribution, coexistence, and effect of environmental factors in a community composed of endemic, probably endemic, and introduced ants of the New World and exotic origin.2. Introduced species were the most frequent, occurring in 98% of the samples, yet endemic and probably endemic species still occurred in 54% of the samples, and constituted one of three most common species. The present study revealed that the habitat type along with altitude and the tree cover are the primary factors shaping ant community composition. Little evidence was found for a competitively structured assemblage of ant species.3. The present study confirmed the predominance of two dominant invasive species, Solenopsis geminata Fabricius and Wasmannia auropunctata Roger, whose abundances are negatively correlated. The abundance of S. geminata is positively correlated with the overall species richness, and with the proportion of other introduced species. The presence of both invasive ants is associated with a low evenness of ant communities.4. The present study (i) stresses the dominance of introduced species and the relative resistance of endemic species, (ii) highlights the on‐going processes of species introductions and (iii) points out the need for adequate monitoring and conservation of the pristine and threatened environments that constitute the Galápagos Islands.
Is it possible to use autologous adipose graft for wound repair in patients with coagulation disorders?
Authors: Caviglia H. , Landro M. E. , Gallo E. , Douglas Price A. L. , Galatro G. , Neme D. 
Published: September 2015

IntroductionWound healing is an intricate process whereby the skin repairs itself after injury according to a specific sequence: haemostasis, inflammation, proliferation and remodelling. Cell therapy has the potential to improve wound healing conditions and can be applied in both acute and chronic wounds. Normal healing requires adequate haemostatic function. Patients with coagulation disorders whose haemostatic function is altered may not heal naturally.AimThe aim of this study was to show a simple, safe and inexpensive minimally invasive technique for wound repair in patients with coagulation disorders which involves the use of concentrated autologous adipose cells.Patients and methodSix patients were enrolled in this study at the Foundation of Haemophilia, in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Five patients had severe haemophilia type A and one had severe von Willebrand diseases. The average age was 37.5 years old. One patient had a retractile scar (RS) and five patients had cutaneous fistulas (CF). Suction was used to obtain autologous adipose graft from subcutaneous abdominal tissue. The graft was centrifuged and, the adipose cell concentrate was transferred to a syringe and injected in the edge of the lesion.ResultsOne adipose suction in each patient was performed. There were no intraoperative or postoperative complications in any of the six patients.ConclusionsThe application of autologous adipose graft is a simple and safe treatment for complicated wound repair in patients with coagulation disorders.
Cape Verde: Rethinking Diaspora in Development Policy
Authors: Resende‐Santos João 
Published: September 2015

AbstractIn today's global economy, small developing countries like Cape Verde have very few options to spur growth and sustain long term socioeconomic development. Small size, poor resource endowment, declining foreign aid, and decreasing opportunities in the world economy have sharply reduced their options for growth and competitiveness. In response, Cape Verde and other small states have been placing increasing focus on migration as a development resource. For a country with a centuries long history of migration and a diaspora estimated to be twice the size of the resident population, harnessing the diaspora is a viable option for Cape Verde. But under what conditions is such an option effective? This article analyses the evolution of the diaspora's economic role, and assesses the conditions that enable or obstruct the diaspora's role as a development resource.
Testing the effect of palaeodrainages versus habitat stability on genetic divergence in riverine systems: study of a Neotropical fish of the Brazilian coastal Atlantic Forest
Authors: Thomaz Andréa T. , Malabarba Luiz R. , Bonatto Sandro L. , Knowles L. Lacey 
Published: September 2015

AbstractAimPatterns of genetic variation within freshwater fish populations may reflect the historical impact of climate change on either sea‐level or environmental conditions. Past sea‐level changes enlarged palaeodrainages and so connected currently isolated rivers, whereas changes in environmental conditions reduced forest cover and may have constrained the movement of fish specialized to this habitat. We assayed genetic variation in Hollandichthys multifasciatus, a freshwater fish endemic to the Atlantic Forest of coastal Brazil, to test the relative importance of these factors in shaping current patterns of genetic divergence.LocationRiver drainages along the south‐eastern Brazilian coast.MethodsA GIS was used to reconstruct palaeodrainages during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). Niche modelling was used to infer areas of stability for the southern Atlantic Forest sensu stricto (present and LGM). The contribution of river connections inside or outside areas of stability was evaluated using a calibrated phylogeny, analyses of molecular variance, and Bayesian skyline plots from two mtDNA loci.ResultsAnalyses of 182 individuals from 26 populations and 12 palaeodrainages indicated that structure associated with palaeodrainages explains 75% of the genetic variation among populations, with estimated divergence times occurring within the Pleistocene. The variation explained by palaeodrainages and estimated population sizes was unrelated to the ecological stability of the region.Main conclusionsThis study demonstrates the importance of Pleistocene palaeodrainages in structuring genetic divergence patterns. The analyses suggest that past connections due to sea‐level retreat played a significant role in the diversification of the ichthyofauna along the Brazilian coastal drainages. Moreover, the lack of a signature of habitat stability in structuring genetic variation suggests that refugia may be less important in structuring genetic diversity for freshwater species than for terrestrial species. In addition, our work highlights the utility of a GIS‐based approach to recover past connections among coastal basins. Understanding these connections is crucial for studying diversification of riverine organisms and for identifying areas of conservation priority.
Effect of minoxidil topical foam on frontotemporal and vertex androgenetic alopecia in men: a 104‐week open‐label clinical trial
Authors: Kanti V. , Hillmann K. , Kottner J. , Stroux A. , Canfield D. , Blume‐Peytavi U. 
Published: September 2015

AbstractBackgroundTopical minoxidil formulations have been shown to be effective in treating androgenetic alopecia (AGA) for 12 months. Efficacy and safety in both frontotemporal and vertex regions over longer application periods have not been studied so far.ObjectivesTo evaluate the effect of 5% minoxidil topical foam (5% MTF) in the frontotemporal and vertex areas in patients with moderate AGA over 104 weeks.MethodsAn 80‐week, open‐label extension phase was performed, following a 24‐week randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study in men with AGA grade IIIvertex to VI. Group 1 (n = 22) received ongoing 5% MTF for 104 weeks, Group 2 (n = 23) received placebo topical foam (plaTF) until week 24, followed by 5% MTF until week 104 during the extension phase. Frontotemporal and vertex target area non‐vellus hair counts (f‐TAHC, v‐TAHC) and cumulative hair width (f‐TAHW, v‐TAHW) were assessed at baseline and at weeks 24, 52, 76 and 104.ResultsIn Group 1, f‐TAHW and f‐TAHC showed a statistically significant increase from baseline to week 52 and week 76, respectively, returning to values comparable to baseline at week 104. No significant differences were found between baseline and week 104 in v‐TAHC in Group 1 as well as f‐TAHC, v‐TAHC, f‐TAHW and v‐TAHW values in Group 2.Conclusions5% MTF is effective in stabilizing hair density, hair width and scalp coverage in both frontotemporal and vertex areas over an application period of 104 weeks, while showing a good safety and tolerability profile with a low rate of irritant contact dermatitis.
Validation of the Chinese version of the CogState computerised cognitive assessment battery in Taiwanese patients with heart failure
Authors: Chou Cheng‐Chen , Pressler Susan J , Giordani Bruno , Fetzer Susan Jane 
Published: September 2015

Aims and objectivesTo evaluate the validity of the Chinese version of the CogState battery, a computerised cognitive testing among patients with heart failure in Taiwan.BackgroundCognitive deficits are common in patients with heart failure and a validated Chinese measurement is required for assessing cognitive change for this population. The CogState computerised battery is a measurement of cognitive function and has been validated in many languages, but not Chinese.DesignA cross‐sectional study.MethodsA convenience sample consisted of 76 women with heart failure and 64 healthy women in northern Taiwan. Women completed the Chinese version of the CogState battery and the Montreal Cognitive Assessment. Construct validity of the Chinese version of the battery was evaluated by exploratory factor analysis and known‐group comparisons. Convergent validity of the CogState tasks was examined by Pearson correlation coefficients.ResultsPrincipal components factor analysis with promax rotation showed two factors reflecting the speed and memory dimensions of the tests. Scores for CogState battery tasks showed significant differences between the heart failure and healthy control group. Examination of convergent validity of the CogState found a significant association with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment.ConclusionThe Chinese CogState Battery has satisfactory construct and convergent validity to measure cognitive deficits in patients with heart failure in Taiwan.Relevance to clinical practiceThe Chinese CogState battery is a valid instrument for detecting cognitive deficits that may be subtle in the early stages, and identifying changes that provide insights into patients’ abilities to implement treatment accurately and consistently. Better interventions tailored to the needs of the cognitive impaired population can be developed.
Global distribution of fin whalesBalaenoptera physalusin the post‐whaling era (1980–2012)
Authors: Edwards Elizabeth F. , Hall Candice , Moore Thomas J. , Sheredy Corey , Redfern Jessica V. 
Published: September 2015

AbstractThe global distribution of fin whalesBalaenoptera physalusis not fully understood. Existing maps can be divided into two conflicting categories: one showing a continuous global distribution and another showing an equatorial hiatus (gap in the global distribution) between approximately 20°Nand 20°S. Questions also remain about the seasonal distribution of fin whales.To explore the suggested equatorial hiatus and seasonal distribution patterns, we synthesised information on fin whale distribution in the post‐whaling era (1980–2012) from published literature, publicly available reports and studies conducted by various organisations. We created four seasonally stratified maps showing line‐transect density estimates, line‐transect survey effort, acoustic detections, and sightings.An equatorial hiatus in the global distribution of fin whales during the post‐whaling era is supported by numerous line‐transect surveys and by the rarity of equatorial acoustic detections and sightings, and corroborated by whaling era reports, morphological analyses, and genetic analyses.Our synthesis of post‐whaling era data is consistent with results from other studies indicating that fin whales are more abundant at higher latitudes during warmer months and more abundant at lower latitudes (although these latitudes are still greater than 20°) during colder months. However, our synthesis and results from other studies also indicate that some fin whales in both hemispheres remain in higher latitudes (50°–60° north or south) during colder months and in lower latitudes (to approximately 20°–30° north or south) during warmer months, indicating that seasonal fin whale movements differ from the seasonal migrations of blue whalesBalaenoptera musculusand humpback whalesMegaptera novaeangliae.Our maps of global fin whale distribution provide a comprehensive picture of current knowledge and highlight important geographical and temporal data gaps. Surveys should be conducted within the identified data gaps in order to increase fine‐scale spatial and temporal knowledge of distribution patterns, improve fin whale taxonomy, and identify areas of elevated fin whale densities that may require management of threats, such as ship strikes.
RESISTING CLOSURE: THE PASSACAGLIA FINALE FROM GYÖRGY LIGETI'S LE GRAND MACABRE
Authors: EDWARDS PETER 
Published: September 2015

ABSTRACTThe Passacaglia finale from György Ligeti's Le Grand Macabre (1974–7, rev. 1996) has been described as a point of stylistic crisis, marking Ligeti's return to more traditional compositional means. Consonances and tonal allusions in the music are regarded as indicative of this retrospective tendency. However, notions of functional hierarchy or even pitch centres do little to explicate the underlying processes that contribute to the sense of perpetual unfurling in the Passacaglia. Contained within the resistance to tonal teleology is a process of differentiation in the pitch material. In this respect, the Passacaglia might be considered a further development in Ligeti's continuing effort to inject process into musical material, albeit with increasing levels of intervallic transparency. I further substantiate this argument by situating the analytical findings in this article in a historical context.
Augustine as Improvisational Theologian: The Musical Nature of Augustine's Thought
Authors: Crawford Nathan 
Published: September 2015

AbstractIn this article, I explore the nature of Augustine's theological thinking. My thesis is that Augustine is an “improvisational theologian,” meaning his theology begins from the place that an improvisational musician's thinking does: attunement. In order to prove this thesis, I have three sections. The first is an analysis of the type of thinking that takes place in improvisational music, showing how it is predicated upon an idea of attunement. Second, I explore the improvisational nature of Augustine's thought by seeing how attunement is also at work in his thinking. In order to do this, I show how he develops a musical worldview in De Musica and how this guides his subsequent thinking in De Doctrina Christiana and Confessions. I conclude by briefly pointing to different contemporary theological issues that this reading of Augustine can enrich.
In vitro and non‐invasive in vivo effects of the cannabinoid‐1 receptor agonist AM841 on gastrointestinal motor function in the rat
Authors: Abalo R. , Chen C. , Vera G. , Fichna J. , Thakur G. A. , López‐Pérez A. E. , Makriyannis A. , Martín‐Fontelles M. I. , Storr M. 
Published: September 2015

AbstractBackgroundCannabinoids have been traditionally used for the treatment of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, but the associated central effects, through cannabinoid‐1 receptors (CB1R), constitute an important drawback. Our aims were to characterize the effects of the recently developed highly potent long‐acting megagonist AM841 on GI motor function and to determine its central effects in rats.MethodsMale Wistar rats were used for in vitro and in vivo studies. The effect of AM841 was tested on electrically induced twitch contractions of GI preparations (in vitro) and on GI motility measured radiographically after contrast administration (in vivo). Central effects of AM841 were evaluated using the cannabinoid tetrad. The non‐selective cannabinoid agonist WIN 55,212‐2 (WIN) was used for comparison. The CB1R (AM251) and CB2R (AM630) antagonists were used to characterize cannabinoid receptor‐mediated effects of AM841.Key ResultsAM841 dose‐dependently reduced in vitro contractile activity of rat GI preparations via CB1R, but not CB2R or opioid receptors. In vivo, AM841 acutely and potently reduced gastric emptying and intestinal transit in a dose‐dependent and AM251‐sensitive manner. The in vivo GI effects of AM841 at 0.1 mg/kg were comparable to those induced by WIN at 5 mg/kg. However, at this dose, AM841 did not induce any sign of the cannabinoid tetrad, whereas WIN induced significant central effects.Conclusions & InferencesThe CB1R megagonist AM841 may potently depress GI motor function in the absence of central effects. This effect may be mediated peripherally and may be useful in the treatment of GI motility disorders.
Effect of neostigmine on gastroduodenal motility in patients with suspected gastrointestinal motility disorders
Authors: Parthasarathy G. , Ravi K. , Camilleri M. , Andrews C. , Szarka L. A. , Low P. A. , Zinsmeister A. R. , Bharucha A. E. 
Published: September 2015

AbstractBackgroundAcetylcholinesterase inhibitors (ACIs), e.g., neostigmine, are known to increase upper and lower gastrointestinal (GI) motility and are used to treat acute colonic pseudoobstruction. However, their effects on gastroduodenal motility in humans are poorly understood. Our hypotheses were that, in patients with suspected GI motility disorders, neostigmine increases gastric and small intestinal motor activity, and these effects are greater in patients with cardiovagal neuropathy, reflecting denervation sensitivity.MethodsIn this open label study, the effects of neostigmine (1 mg intravenously) on gastroduodenal motor activity recorded with manometry were assessed in 28 patients with a suspected GI motility disorder. Cardiovagal function was assessed with the heart rate response to deep breathing and GI transit by scintigraphy.Key ResultsThe final diagnoses were gastroparesis (6 patients), gastroparesis with intestinal neuropathy (3 patients), intestinal neuropathy or pseudoobstruction (5 patients), functional dyspepsia (6 patients), chronic abdominal pain (3 patients), mechanical small intestinal obstruction (3 patients), and pelvic floor dysfunction (2 patients). Neostigmine increased both antral and intestinal phasic pressure activity (p < 0.001). Neostigmine increased antral and intestinal pressure activity in 81% and 50% of patients with reduced postprandial antral and intestinal contractile responses to meal, respectively. The antroduodenal pressure response to neostigmine was not higher in patients with cardiovagal dysfunction.Conclusions & InferencesNeostigmine increased antral and intestinal motor activity in patients with hypomotility, including intestinal dysmotility. These responses to neostigmine were not greater in patients with cardiovagal dysfunction. The use of longer‐acting ACIs for treating antroduodenal dysmotility warrant further study.