bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatiotemporal Dynamics of Reward and Punishment Effects Induced by Associative Learning
Authors: Wang Huan , Kleffner Killian , Carolan Patrick L. , Liotti Mario
Published: June 2018

While reward associative learning has been studied extensively across different species, punishment avoidance learning has received far less attention. Of particular interest is how the two types of learning change perceptual processing of the learned stimuli. We designed a task that required participants to learn the association of emotionally neutral images with reward, punishment, and no incentive value outcomes through trial-and-error. During learning, participants received monetary reward, neutral outcomes or avoided punishment by correctly identifying corresponding images. Results showed an early bias in favor of learning reward associations, in the form of higher accuracy and fewer trials needed to reach learning criterion. We subsequently assessed electrophysiological learning effects with a task in which participants viewed the stimuli with no feedback or reinforcement. Critically, we found modulation of two early event-related potential components for reward images: the frontocentral P2 (170 – 230 ms) and the anterior N2/Early Anterior Positivity (N2/EAP; 210 – 310 ms). We suggest that reward associations may change stimuli detection and incentive salience as indexed by P2 and N2/EAP. We also reported, on an exploratory basis, a late negativity with frontopolar distribution enhanced by punishment images.
Feasibility of constructing multi-dimensional genomic maps of juvenile idiopathic arthritis
Authors: Zhu Lisha , Jiang Kaiyu , Wong Laiping , Buck Michael J. , Chen Yanmin , Moncrieffe Halima , McIntosh Laura A. , O’Neil Kathleen M. , Liu Tao , Xing Xiaoyun , Li Daofeng , Wang Ting , Jarvis James N.
Published: June 2018

Background

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is one of the most common chronic conditions of childhood. Like many common chronic human illnesses, JIA likely involves complex interactions between genes and the environment, mediated by the epigenome. Such interactions are best understood through multi-dimensional genomic maps that identify critical genetic and epigenetic components of the disease. However, constructing such maps in a cost-effective way is challenging, and this challenge is further complicated by the challenge of obtaining biospecimens from pediatric patients at time of disease diagnosis, prior to therapy, as well as the limited quantity of biospecimen that can be obtained from children,particularly those who are unwell. In this paper, we demonstrate the feasibility and utility of creating multi-dimensional genomic maps for JIA from limited sample numbers.

Methods

To accomplish our aims, we used an approach similar to that used in the ENCODE and Roadmap Epigenomics projects, which used only 2 replicates for each component of the genomic maps. We used genome-wide DNA methylation sequencing, whole genome sequencing on the Illumina 10x platform, RNA sequencing, and chromatin immunoprecipitation-sequencing for informative histone marks (H3K4me1 and H3K27ac) to construct a multi-dimensional map of JIA neutrophils, a cell we have shown to be important in the pathobiology of JIA.

Results

The epigenomes of JIA neutrophils display numerous differences from those from healthy children. DNA methylation changes, however, had only a weak effect on differential gene expression. In contrast, H3K4me1 and H3K27ac, commonly associated with enhancer functions, strongly correlated with gene expression. Furthermore, although unique/novel enhancer marks were associated with insertion-deletion events (indels) identified on whole genome sequencing, we saw no strong association between epigenetic changes and underlying genetic variation. The initiation of treatment in JIA is associated with a re-ordering of both DNA methylation and histone modifications, demonstrating the plasticity of the epigenome in this setting.

Conclusions

These findings, generated from a small number of patient samples, demonstrate how multidimensional genomic studies may yield new understandings of biology of JIA and provide insight into how therapy alters gene expression patterns.
High throughput proteomics identifies 484 high-accuracy plasma protein biomarker signatures for ovarian cancer
Authors: Enroth Stefan , Berggrund Malin , Lycke Maria , Broberg John , Lundberg Martin , Assarsson Erika , Olovsson Matts , Stålberg Karin , Sundfeldt Karin , Gyllensten Ulf
Published: June 2018

Ovarian cancer is usually detected at a late stage with the 5-year survival at only 30-40%. Additional means for early detection and improved diagnosis are acutely needed. To search for novel biomarkers, we compared circulating plasma levels of 981 proteins in patients with ovarian cancer and benign tumours, using the proximity extension assay. A novel combinatorial strategy was developed for identification of multivariate biomarker signatures, resulting in 484 mutually exclusive models out of which 448 did not contain the present biomarker MUCIN-16. The top-ranking model consisted of 14 proteins and had a AUC=0.95, PPV=1.0, sensitivity=0.99 and specificity=1.0 for detection of stage III-IV ovarian cancer in the discovery data, and an AUC=0.89, PPV=0.93, sensitivity=0.89 and specificity=0.95 in the replication data. The novel plasma protein signature could be used to improve the diagnosis of women with adnexal ovarian mass or in screening to identify women that should be referred to specialized examination.
Eldecalcitol is more effective for promoting osteogenesis than alfacalcidol in Cyp27b1-knockout Mice
Authors: Hirota Yoshihisa , Nakagawa Kimie , Isomoto Keigo , Sakaki Toshiyuki , Kubodera Noboru , Kamao Maya , Osakabe Naomi , Suhara Yoshitomo , Okano Toshio
Published: June 2018

Calcium (Ca) absorption from the intestinal tract is promoted by active vitamin D (1α,25D3). Vitamin D not only promotes Ca homeostasis, but it also inhibits bone resorption and promotes osteogenesis, thus playing a role in the maintenance of normal bone metabolism. Because 1α,25D3 plays an important role in osteogenesis, vitamin D formulations, such as alfacalcidol (ALF) and eldecalcitol (ELD), are used for treating osteoporosis. While it is known that, in contrast to ALF, ELD is an active ligand that directly acts on bone, the reason for its superior osteogenesis effects is unknown. Cyp27b1-knockout mice (Cyp27b1−/− mice) are congenitally deficient in 1α,25D3 and exhibit marked hypocalcemia and high parathyroid hormone levels, resulting in osteodystrophy involving bone hypocalcification and growth plate cartilage hypertrophy. However, because the vitamin D receptor is expressed normally in Cyp27b1−/− mice, they respond normally to 1α,25D3. Accordingly, in Cyp27b1−/− mice, the pharmacological effects of exogenously administered active vitamin D derivatives can be analyzed without being affected by 1α,25D3. We used Cyp27b1−/− mice to characterize and clarify the superior osteogenic effects of ELD on the bone in comparison with ALF. The results indicated that compared to ALF, ELD strongly induces ECaC2, calbindin-D9k, and CYP24A1 in the duodenum, promoting Ca absorption and decreasing the plasma concentration of 1α,25D3, resulting in improved osteogenesis. Because bone morphological measurements demonstrated that ELD has stronger effects on bone calcification, trabecular formation, and cancellous bone density than ALF, ELD appears to be a more effective therapeutic agent for treating postmenopausal osteoporosis, in which cancellous bone density decreases markedly. By using Cyp27b1−/− mice, this study was the first to succeed in clarifying the osteogenic effect of ELD without any influence of endogenous 1α,25D3. Furthermore, ELD more strongly enhanced bone mineralization, trabecular proliferation, and cancellous bone density than did ALF. Thus, ELD is expected to show an effect on postmenopausal osteoporosis, in which cancellous bone mineral density decreases markedly.
Transcriptomic atlas of mushroom development highlights an independent origin of complex multicellularity
Authors: Krizsán Krisztina , Almási Éva , Merényi Zsolt , Sahu Neha , Virágh Máté , Kószó Tamás , Mondo Stephen , Kiss Brigitta , Bálint Balázs , Kües Ursula , Barry Kerrie , Cseklye Judit , Hegedűs Botond , Henrissat Bernard , Johnson Jenifer , Lipzen Anna , Ohm Robin A. , Nagy István , Pangilinan Jasmyn , Yan Juying , Xiong Yi , Grigoriev Igor V. , Hibbett David S. , Nagy László G.
Published: June 2018

We constructed a reference atlas of mushroom formation based on developmental transcriptome data of six species and comparisons of >200 whole genomes, to elucidate the core genetic program of complex multicellularity and fruiting body development in mushroom-forming fungi (Agaricomycetes). Nearly 300 conserved gene families and >70 functional groups contained developmentally regulated genes from five to six species, covering functions related to fungal cell wall (FCW) remodeling, targeted protein degradation, signal transduction, adhesion and small secreted proteins (including effector-like orphan genes). Several of these families, including F-box proteins, protein kinases and cadherin-like proteins, showed massive expansions in Agaricomycetes, with many convergently expanded in multicellular plants and/or animals too, reflecting broad genetic convergence among independently evolved complex multicellular lineages. This study provides a novel entry point to studying mushroom development and complex multicellularity in one of the largest clades of complex eukaryotic organisms.
Revised testing procedures do not elicit magnetoreceptive behavior in C. elegans
Authors: Landler Lukas , Nordmann Gregory C. , Nimpf Simon , Hochstoeger Tobias , Kagerbauer Daniel , Keays David A.
Published: June 2018

A diverse range of species is known to rely on the Earth’s magnetic field for spatial information. Vidal-Gadea et al. claimed that C. elegans are magneto-sensitive, exploiting the magnetic field to guide their burrowing behavior [1]. Our attempts to replicate their findings were unsuccessful [2], which Vidal-Gadea attributed to the satiety of the animals and the environment in which they were raised. Here, we report our repeated experiments, having adopted several suggestions proposed by Vidal-Gadea et al. [3]. We find that shortening the length of the behavioral assay and raising the animals in a Faraday cage does not result in magnetotactic behavior. We reluctantly conclude that the assays employed by Vidal-Gadea are not robust or C. elegans are not magneto-sensitive.
Vascular defects ofDYRK1Aknockouts are ameliorated by modulating calcium signaling in zebrafish
Authors: Cho Hyun-Ju , Lee Jae-Geun , Kim Jong-Hwan , Kim Seon-Young , Huh Yang Hoon , Kim Hyo-Jeong , Lee Kyu-Sun , Yu Kweon , Lee Jeong-Soo
Published: June 2018

DYRK1Ais a major causative gene in Down syndrome (DS). Reduced incidence of solid tumors and vascular anomalies in DS patients suggests a role ofDYRK1Ain angiogenesis, butin vivoevidence is lacking. Here, we used zebrafishdyrk1aamutant embryos to understandDYRK1Afunction in the cerebral vasculature formation. Zebrafishdyrk1aamutants exhibited cerebral hemorrhage and defects in angiogenesis of central arteries in the developing hindbrain. Such phenotypes were rescued by wild-typedyrk1aamRNA, but not by a kinase-dead form, indicating the importance of DYRK1A kinase activity. Chemical screening using a bioactive small molecule library identified a calcium chelator, EGTA, as one of the hits that most robustly rescued the hemorrhage. Vascular defects of mutants were also rescued by independent modulation of calcium signaling by FK506. Furthermore, the transcriptomic analyses supported the alterations of calcium signaling networks indyrk1aamutants. Together, our results suggest thatdyrk1aaplays an essential role in angiogenesis and in maintenance of the developing cerebral vasculature via regulation of calcium signaling, which may have therapeutic potential forDYRK1A-related vascular diseases.
Synthesis, structure and in vitro cytotoxicity testing of some 1,3,4-oxadiazoline derivatives from 2-hydroxy-5-iodobenzoic acid
Authors: Nguyen Tien Cong , Nguyen Van Thin , Le Duc Giang , Vu Quoc Manh , Vu Quoc Trung , Pham Chien Thang , Nguyen Huy Hung , Dang Thi Tuyet Anh , Nguyen Van Tuyen , Van Meervelt Luc
Published: June 2018

The syntheses of nine new 5-iodosalicylic acid-based 1,3,4-oxadiazoline derivatives starting from methyl salicylate are described. These compounds are 2-[4-acetyl-5-methyl-5-(3-nitrophenyl)-4,5-dihydro-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl]-4-iodophenyl acetate (6a), 2-[4-acetyl-5-methyl-5-(4-nitrophenyl)-4,5-dihydro-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl]-4-iodophenyl acetate (6b), 2-(4-acetyl-5-methyl-5-phenyl-4,5-dihydro-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl)-4-iodophenyl acetate, C19H17IN2O4 (6c), 2-[4-acetyl-5-(4-fluorophenyl)-5-methyl-4,5-dihydro-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl]-4-iodophenyl acetate, C19H16FIN2O4 (6d), 2-[4-acetyl-5-(4-chlorophenyl)-5-methyl-4,5-dihydro-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl]-4-iodophenyl acetate, C19H16ClIN2O4 (6e), 2-[4-acetyl-5-(3-bromophenyl)-5-methyl-4,5-dihydro-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl]-4-iodophenyl acetate (6f), 2-[4-acetyl-5-(4-bromophenyl)-5-methyl-4,5-dihydro-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl]-4-iodophenyl acetate (6g), 2-[4-acetyl-5-methyl-5-(4-methylphenyl)-4,5-dihydro-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl]-4-iodophenyl acetate (6h) and 2-[5-(4-acetamidophenyl)-4-acetyl-5-methyl-4,5-dihydro-1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-yl]-4-iodophenyl acetate (6i). The compounds were characterized by mass, 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectroscopies. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction studies were also carried out for 6c, 6d and 6e. Compounds 6c and 6d are isomorphous, with the 1,3,4-oxadiazoline ring having an envelope conformation, where the disubstituted C atom is the flap. The packing is determined by C—H...O, C—H...π and I...π interactions. For 6e, the 1,3,4-oxadiazoline ring is almost planar. In the packing, Cl...π interactions are observed, while the I atom is not involved in short interactions. Compounds 6d, 6e, 6f and 6h show good inhibiting abilities on the human cancer cell lines KB and Hep-G2, with IC50 values of 0.9–4.5 µM.
Integrated reporting as a test of worth
Authors: Vesty Gillian Maree , Ren Chao , Ji Sophia
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide practical insights into a senior manager’s engagement with integrated reporting (IR). This paper theorises IR as an accounting compromise and test of worth in an Australian IR pilot organisation.

Design/methodology/approach

In-depth interviews with the chairman of the IR pilot organisation are analysed in the context of Boltanski and Thévenot’s (1991, 2006) economies of worth (EW). A personal narrative approach was used to privilege the voice of an individual actor at the heart of decision making.

Findings

In contributing to van Bommel’s (2014) use of EW to examine IR as an accounting compromise, the authors find that ambiguity in IR does not mean that reporting is getting harder to operationalise. Instead, IR is getting harder to justify. The relativism issues that IR has revealed suggest that if all views are met, any significant contributions would not stand out. Interviews reveal that the challenge for IR is to provide the means to report on the organisation’s broader societal impacts, which go beyond measures of IR value creation.

Practical implications

This paper contributes to the accounting academy with practical insights on a dual-purpose organisation’s experiences with IR. The authors demonstrate how a chairman of the board uses accounting to navigate competing priorities and justify management decisions.

Originality/value

This study offers unique insights from the chairman of an IR pilot organisation. A personal narrative approach contributes to the limited empirical literature in accounting using EW as a micro-level analytic.
Quantitative tool for market sector strategic analysis
Authors: dos Santos Morais Rogério , Camello Lima Carlos Roberto
Published: June 2018

Purpose

A competitive business strategy with a greater chance of success depends on an accurate quantitative analysis of business strategic factors prevailing in a company. The purpose of this paper is to conduct the latter to determine the level of competitiveness in a sector.

Design/methodology/approach

This study develops a tool based on literature classics and tested in the telecommunications industry to determine market segment competitiveness, market attractiveness and the relative ability of companies to generate profits.

Findings

The proposed tool allows managers to quantify each strategic factor and, thus, identify positive factors leading to a competitive advantage and weaknesses leading to vulnerability, which enables an improvement in daily strategic decision making.

Practical implications

Implementing the tool can enable managers to both quantify each strategic factor and improve strategic decision making.

Originality/value

This methodology employed here is novel. As such, this study provides new insights into how to compete in the telecommunications industry and discusses useful implications for academia, new entrepreneurs, buyers and suppliers.
Benchmarking manufacturing industries based on green practices
Authors: Sangwan Kuldip Singh , Choudhary Kailash
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to develop a statistically reliable and valid model of performance measures (PMs) to observe the environmental behavior of different enterprises; second, at benchmarking the enterprises based on their green practices.

Design/methodology/approach

A PM model has been proposed using an empirical analysis of manufacturing industry. The developed model has been tested using structural equation modeling technique. The level of green manufacturing (GM) performance in different sectors and sizes of Indian manufacturing industry has been studied and benchmarked using hierarchical cluster analysis with one-way ANOVA.

Findings

The results indicate that top management commitment and product design are the root PMs for the success of GM practices. It has been found that chemical, automotive, food and pharmaceutical industries are the high performing sectors. It has also been found that large scale enterprises are performing better than medium-sized enterprises which are doing better than small and micro enterprises in GM practices.

Research limitations/implications

The indicators/variables in questionnaire are subjective in nature and collected data are from Indian manufacturing organizations only.

Practical implications

The governments, trade bodies and NGOs can use the proposed model for measurement of green performance of any manufacturing industry. The benchmarking can be used by the different policy influencing and making agencies to develop future policies for the improvement. The industry can also use the benchmarking for its peer performance improvement.

Originality/value

The major novelty of the paper is benchmarking the green performance of manufacturing industries based on the different sectors and sizes using empirical investigation. The level of GM performance in different sectors and sizes of industries has been studied and benchmarked using hierarchical cluster analysis with one-way ANOVA.
“My choice was not to become a tradesman, my choice was to go to uni”
Authors: Stahl Garth D. , Loeser Cassandra
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the first-year university experience as an agent for the (re)learning and (re)making of masculine identity as it intersects with other categories of identity. Historically, male students from working-class backgrounds have often struggled with identity issues and many leave school early for vocational employment where their masculinity is reinforced and validated. A small percentage, however, re-enrol in higher education later in life. This paper explores how “Deo”, a tradesperson who became a university student, reconstructed his identity during this transition.

Design/methodology/approach

The primary methodology for this case study is semi-structured interviews.

Findings

Deo articulated his transition in terms of “change” and “transformation”, in which a theme of risk was central. He also drew attention to cultural practices that regulate hierarchies of masculinity as they intersect with the identities of age, sexuality, ethnicity and socio-economic status within his work and study.

Research limitations/implications

This study focusses on one student’s experience in an Australian public university, so findings may not be generalisable. However, single stories are an important means of illustrating the intersection of shared socio-cultural practices.

Originality/value

Within adult education literature there is limited engagement with intersecting cultural narratives that shape experiences, inequalities and barriers in learners’ lives. Deo’s story gives voice to socio-cultural narratives around masculinity, age, ethnicity, sexuality and socio-economic status, highlighting their central significance to learning, being and belonging.
Development and validation of a multivendor ATM adoption model in India
Authors: Hota Jyotiranjan , Mishra Sasmita
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to find out the adoption level of multivendor ATM technology among customers and second, to develop and validate a model to explain the multivendor ATM usage in India.

Design/methodology/approach

First, a conceptual model on adoption of multivendor ATM technology was developed by referring relevant literature. Scale items for each construct of the model were culled from relevant literature sources. A pilot survey was conducted to validate the constructs. The survey was conducted online using Surveymonkey that garnered response from 136 respondents. The pilot survey data were analyzed to find the reliability and validity of the scales, based on which few items were dropped to improve the construct’s validity. The revised instrument was used to conduct the final survey, which was closed after collection of 543 responses. On screening for completeness, and normality test, 372 responses were retained for data analysis.

Findings

The major findings from analysis of the screened 372 responses were: awareness emerged as a significant factor influencing usage behavior and other perceptual factors; perception of personalized features influenced the attitude as well as usage behavior of the customers; personal control dimensions such as outcome desirability and controllability influenced both perceptual variables and usage behavior; and no relationship was found among attitude, intention and usage behavior, which contradicted findings of some studies in this area, thus creating the ground to understand multivendor ATM usage behavior. The findings have been discussed further.

Practical implications

The findings of the study can be useful for banks and suppliers in understanding the adoption of their ATM technology by their customers that would help them initiate activities to enhance the adoption of the technology and increase their customer base. The findings will also encourage suppliers and banks to add more personalized features in this technology.

Originality/value

Multivendor technology is at its nascent stage in India and this study is the first of its kind. The model developed here is an extension of technology acceptance model (TAM) with the introduction of some new variables such as perception of personalized features and personal control. This study also reveals that some of the hypotheses of original TAM model may not fit in the context of the technology where usage behavior is habitual and lifestyle oriented.
Perceived overall service quality and customer satisfaction
Authors: Moghavvemi Sedigheh , Lee Su Teng , Lee Siew Peng
Published: June 2018

Purpose

Foreign and local banks in Malaysia are competing in terms of skilled staff, innovative products and services, rendering quality services and customer satisfaction. The purpose of this paper is to examine the overall service quality and customer satisfaction of both foreign and local banks.

Design/methodology/approach

The data used to test the hypothesis were collected from 748 foreign and local bank customers in Malaysia. The research model was analysed using a structural equation modelling technique.

Findings

Results show that knowledge and staff competencies, as well as convenience of the bank is more significant for local bank customers while bank image and internet banking are important components for foreign bank customers. The results also reveal that foreign bank customers have higher satisfaction as compared to local bank customers.

Research limitations/implications

No analysis is undertaken of any difference in the service quality dimensions between banks of different size. Further research on banking services could usefully test services quality dimensions across banks of different sizes.

Practical implications

The findings serve as a valuable reference for local banks understand service quality challenges they may face from foreign banks in this competitive industry. Findings suggest that, to provide high-quality services, financial institutions need to heighten customer satisfaction differentiation strategies.

Originality/value

The outcomes of this study enhance the knowledge on the performance of both local and foreign banks in Malaysia as well as customer satisfaction, which are invaluable to all bank managers and industry players in improving their services.
A review and analysis of service level agreements and chargebacks in the retail industry
Authors: Chen Chun-Miin (Jimmy)
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine service level agreements (SLAs) in the retail industry and uses empirical data to draw conclusions on the relationships between SLA parameters and retailer financial performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on prior SLA theories, hypotheses about the impacts of SLA confidentiality, choice of chargeback mechanisms and chargeback penalty on retailer inventory turnover are tested.

Findings

Retailer inventory turnover could vary by the level of SLA confidentiality, and the variation of retailer inventory turnovers could be explained by chargeback penalty.

Research limitations/implications

The research findings may not be readily applicable to SLAs outside of the retail industry. Also, most conclusions were drawn from publicly available SLAs.

Practical implications

The significant relationships between SLA parameters and retailer inventory turnover imply that a retailer could improve its financial performance by leveraging its SLA design.

Originality/value

Not only does this study contribute to the understanding of retail SLA design in practice, but it also extends prior theories by investigating the implications of SLA design on the retailer inventory turnover.
How do avatar characteristics affect avatar friendliness and online gamer loyalty? Perspective of the theory of embodied cognition
Authors: Li Kai , Nguyen Huynh Van , Cheng T.C.E. , Teng Ching-I
Published: June 2018

Purpose

As technology-created gamers’ representations, avatars are influential in communication among online gamers. However, there is scant research on how avatars’ characteristics impact gamers’ friendly behaviour via avatars, i.e., avatar friendliness, and how avatar friendliness is related to online gamer loyalty. The purpose of this paper is to develop a research model grounded in the theory of embodied cognition to examine the impacts of perceived avatar appearance agreeableness, attractiveness and height on avatar friendliness and online gamer loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors collect 1,384 responses from online gamers and use structural equation modelling for hypothesis testing.

Findings

The authors find that perceived avatar appearance agreeableness and attractiveness are positively related to avatar friendliness, while perceived avatar height is negatively related to avatar friendliness. Avatar friendliness, in turn, is positively related to online gamer loyalty.

Research limitations/implications

This study assessed gamers’ perceptions using a cross-sectional design. Future works could use a big data approach to collect behavioural and longitudinal data. Moreover, future works could measure avatar height using pixels.

Originality/value

The authors contribute to the e-commerce literature by inventing the new constructs of perceived avatar appearance agreeableness and avatar friendliness, and conducting the first study of using avatar friendliness to explain the impacts of the three avatar characteristics on online gamer loyalty. The findings also provide novel insights for e-commerce managers to effectively build a loyal gamer base.
Building stronger hospitality brands through online communities
Authors: Zhang Tingting , Bilgihan Anil , Kandampully Jay , Lu Can
Published: June 2018

Purpose

Companies increasingly rely on online communities for social customer support, to develop and nurture relationships with customers, and to generate product and service development ideas. As yet, few studies have established the relationship between online communities and branding strategies. Therefore, the impact of online communities on branding requires investigation. The purpose of this paper is to examine the factors that influence brand relationships developed through online communities.

Design/methodology/approach

A theoretical model was developed based on marketing literature and tested using structural equation modeling with a sample size of 253 respondents.

Findings

Findings present the underlying reasons why and how online communities build stronger brand relationships with consumers. Online communities have been found to cultivate consumers’ sense of collectiveness with shared values conveyed through brand engagement; enhance consumers’ trust, leading to the establishment of a trustworthy image of the brand; and increase enjoyment and enrich consumers’ experience with the brand through participation and engagement.

Originality/value

This study provides insights to understand the direct relationship between online communities and brand performance. The findings of the study provide practical implications for brand relationship management and online community design.

研究目的

公司越来越依靠网上社区来提供社交式的消费者服务支持, 以建立和巩固与消费者的关系, 并且以获得产品、服务研发的新想法。至今为止, 很少的著作致力于研究网上社区与品牌战略的关系。因此, 网上社区对于品牌扩展的影响作用值得研究。本论文的研究目的即是研究通过网上社区建立起来的消费者品牌关系的诸多因素。.

研究设计/方法/途径

本论文的理论模型是以营销理论为基础而建立的。本论文采用结构方程模型, 253份样本数据, 来验证建立的理论模型。.

研究结果

各种通过网上社区建立更强消费者品牌关系的因素得以分析和整理。网上社区能够通过使消费者与品牌更贴近的各种活动, 以培养消费者对于品牌的认知和集体意识, 从而使消费者与品牌有一致的价值认知。此外, 网上社区还能增强消费者对于品牌的信任, 增强了消费者与品牌互动过程的愉悦感和体验感。.

研究原创性/价值

本论文对于网上社区和品牌表现之间的直接关系进行梳理和研究。其研究结果对于品牌关系管理和网上社区设计等方面有着很深的实际启示作用。.
Taxation, corporate governance and dividend policy in Brazil
Authors: Zagonel Timóteo , Terra Paulo Renato Soares , Pasuch Diogo Favero
Published: June 2018

Purpose

This study aims to analyze the influence of taxes and corporate governance on the dividend policy of Brazilian companies.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors identify the changes of the tax legislation in Brazil in the period 1986-2011 and check their effect on corporate dividend policies for preferred and common shares. The authors use panel data Probit and Tobit estimation to verify the probability of companies to pay dividends under different tax regimes. The final sample comprises 672 companies, 1,159 traded stocks and 30,134 observations

Findings

The authors’ results suggest that changes in the tax legislation have a significant influence on dividend payments. Also, firms do not follow target payout ratios, but dividends are moderately dependent on past payments. Dividend payouts are affected by stock voting rights, privatization and dividend deductibility. Changes in regulation that reduce the agency problems among shareholders affect positively payout ratios.

Practical implications

For managers, maximizing shareholders’ value requires taking into account the consequences of the taxation when designing financial policies for the firm. For investors, stock portfolio selection should take into account payout behavior and how changes in dividend taxation affect stocks’ value. For policymakers, the effects of changes in the tax code on corporate behavior are of utmost importance to stimulate private investment and economic growth.

Originality/value

There are several tax law changes in Brazil within the period analyzed, creating a good opportunity to study the effect of taxation on dividend policy and its dynamics over time.
Microenvironment and functional‐trait context dependence predict alpine plant community dynamics
Authors: Blonder Benjamin , Kapas Rozalia E. , Dalton Rebecca M. , Graae Bente J. , Heiling Jacob M. , Opedal Øystein H.
Published: June 2018

Predicting the structure and dynamics of communities is difficult. Approaches linking functional traits to niche boundaries, species co‐occurrence and demography are promising, but have so far had limited success.

We hypothesized that predictability in community ecology could be improved by incorporating more accurate measures of fine‐scale environmental heterogeneity and the context‐dependent function of traits. We tested these hypotheses using long term whole‐community demography data from an alpine plant community in Colorado.

Species distributions along microenvironmental gradients covaried with traits important for below‐ground processes. Positive associations between species distributions across life stages could not be explained by abiotic microenvironment alone, consistent with facilitative processes. Rates of growth, survival, fecundity and recruitment were predicted by the direct and interactive effects of trait, microenvironment, macroenvironment and neighbourhood axes.

Synthesis. Context‐dependent interactions between multiple traits and microenvironmental axes are needed to predict fine‐scale community structure and dynamics.
Continuity of Care among People Experiencing Homelessness and Mental Illness: Does Community Follow‐up Reduce Rehospitalization?
Authors: Currie Lauren B. , Patterson Michelle L. , Moniruzzaman Akm , McCandless Lawrence C. , Somers Julian M.
Published: June 2018

Objective

To examine whether timely outpatient follow‐up after hospital discharge reduces the risk of subsequent rehospitalization among people experiencing homelessness and mental illness.

Data Sources

Comprehensive linked administrative data including hospital admissions, laboratory services, and community medical services.

Study Design

Participants were recruited to the Vancouver At Home study based on a‐priori criteria for homelessness and mental illness (n = 497). Logistic regression analysis was used to assess the relationship between outpatient care within 7 days postdischarge and subsequent rehospitalization over a 1‐year period.

Data Extraction

Data were extracted for a consenting subsample of participants (n = 433) spanning 5 years prior to study enrollment.

Principal Findings

More than half of the eligible sample (53 percent; n = 128) were rehospitalized within 1 year following an index hospital discharge. Neither outpatient medical services nor laboratory services within 7 days following discharge were associated with a significantly reduced likelihood of rehospitalization within 2 months (AOR = 1.17 [CI = 0.94, 1.46]), 6 months (AOR = 1.00 [CI = 0.82, 1.23]) or 12 months (AOR = 1.24 [CI = 1.02, 1.52]).

Conclusions

In contrast to evidence from nonhomeless samples, we found no association between timely outpatient follow‐up and the likelihood of rehospitalization in our homeless, mentally ill cohort. Our findings indicate a need to address housing as an essential component of discharge planning alongside outpatient care.
Renal effects of norepinephrine‐induced variations in mean arterial pressure after liver transplantation: A randomized cross‐over trial
Authors: Skytte Larsson J. , Bragadottir G. , Redfors B. , Ricksten S.‐E.
Published: June 2018

Background

Acute kidney injury is commonly seen after liver transplantation. The optimal perioperative target mean arterial pressure (MAP) for renal filtration, perfusion and oxygenation in liver recipients is not known. The effects of norepinephrine‐induced changes in MAP on renal blood flow (RBF), oxygen delivery (RDO2), glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and renal oxygenation (=renal oxygen extraction, RO2Ex) were therefore studied early after liver transplantation.

Methods

Ten patients with an intra‐ and post‐operative vasopressor‐dependent systemic vasodilation were studied early after liver transplantation during sedation and mechanical ventilation. To achieve target MAP levels of 60, 75 and 90 mm Hg, the norepinephrine infusion rate was randomly and sequentially titrated. At each target MAP, data on cardiac index (CI), RBF and GFR were obtained by transpulmonary thermodilution (PiCCO), the renal vein thermodilution technique and renal extraction of chromium ethylenediaminetetraaceticacid (51Cr‐EDTA), respectively. Renal oxygen consumption (RVO2) and extraction (RO2Ex) were calculated according to standard formulas.

Results

At a target MAP of 75 mm Hg, CI (13%), RBF (18%), RDO2 (24%), GFR (31%) and RVO2 (20%) were higher while RO2Ex was unchanged compared to a target MAP of 60 mm Hg. Increasing MAP from 75 up to 90 mm Hg increased RVR by 38% but had no further effects on CI, RBF, RDO2 or GFR.

Conclusions

In patients undergoing liver transplantation, RBF and GFR are pressure‐dependent at MAP levels below 75 mm Hg. Our results suggest that MAP should probably be targeted to approximately 75 mm Hg for optimal perioperative renal filtration, perfusion and oxygenation in patients undergoing liver transplantation.
Small mammal responses to farming practices in central Argentinian agroecosystems: The use of hierarchical occupancy models
Authors: Gomez María daniela , Goijman Andrea Paula , Coda José , Serafini Vanesa , Priotto José
Published: June 2018

Organic farming is more environmentally friendly than conventional agriculture, promoting greater levels of habitat heterogeneity. Field borders could be more suitable for biodiversity in agricultural anthromes. Small mammals are crucial in these anthromes due to their contribution to food webs and seed consumption. We used hierarchical multi‐season occupancy models to assess the effect of organic versus conventional farming on multiple small mammal species in agricultural anthromes of central Argentina. We modelled detectability and increased precision of estimates, overcoming deficiencies of previous studies. Small mammals were seasonally surveyed in 70 field borders (conventional) and 63 (organic) during two years. We were able to include less frequent specialist species, detecting a positive relationship with organic management possibly because of higher habitat quality of borders. Vegetation volume was the most important explanatory variable in both managements. Species' richness was greater under organic management mainly in spring when the habitat quality differences with conventional management were the greatest. Spring is key for the rodent assemblage because of the beginning of reproductive period, when resource demand is important. We suggest that maintaining high quality border habitats, as those supported by organic management, could allow farmers to obtain economic profit while also contributing to biodiversity conservation. Considering the positive role that native rodents may have in some agricultural anthromes, the maintenance of high population numbers may be important for biodiversity conservation. The approach used in this study shows the importance of modelling imperfect detection, reducing bias in parameter estimates, and it should be implemented in similar studies.
Contribution of recreational fisheries to the diet of the opportunistic Kelp Gull
Authors: Marinao Cristian , Kasinsky Tatiana , Suárez Nicolás , Yorio Pablo
Published: June 2018

We assessed Kelp Gull (Larus dominicanus) diet composition complementing conventional and stable isotope methods to determine the relevance of food derived from recreational fisheries. To achieve this goal, we quantified Kelp Gull diet composition breeding at the Bahía San Blas protected area, Argentina, between 2012 and 2014, assessing differences among four colonies, breeding stages and years. Diet analyses were based on pellets (n = 1054), chick stomach content samples (n = 351) and stable isotope analysis of adult and chick whole blood samples (n = 20 and 40, respectively). Kelp Gulls fed on at least 41 prey items, mainly fish complemented by marine invertebrates, Oat grain and insects. Stripped Weakfish (Cynoscion guatucupa), a demersal species, was in general the most frequent species among fish prey. Analyses of similarity indicated that diet composition based on pellet analysis was significantly different among the four colonies and, with a couple of exceptions, differed among breeding stages. Diet composition differed only between 2012 and 2013. Bayesian mixing model outputs confirmed demersal fish had in general the highest contribution to Kelp Gull diet. Stripped Weakfish is the most important target of recreational fisheries in the study area, and large quantities of waste resulting from the processing of this and other target fish is disposed mainly along the shore and in the Bahía San Blas refuse dump. The fact that it is a demersal species normally unavailable to surface feeding seabirds and the large size of Stripped Weakfish individuals found in diet samples (mean 41.5 ± 5.2 cm) strongly suggest that Kelp Gulls obtained this prey from the waste generated by the recreational fishery. Results show a strong association between the Kelp Gull and the recreational fishing activity that takes place in the Bahía San Blas protected area, likely resulting from the large amount of waste generated by the fishery.
Questionable validity of left ventricular hypertrophy cutoff values in morbidly and super‐morbidly obese patients
Authors: Domienik‐Karłowicz Justyna , Rymarczyk Zuzanna , Lisik Wojciech , Kurnicka Katarzyna , Ciurzyński Michał , Bielecki Maksymilian , Kosieradzki Maciej , Pruszczyk Piotr
Published: June 2018

Background

Current diagnostic ECG criteria of left ventricular hypertrophy in obese patients are still lacking.

Objective

To assess the current ECG diagnostic criteria of LVH, and to validate our previously proposed criteria in a group of patients with morbid obesity.

Methods

A group of consecutive 429 obese patients (MOP) with BMI of at least 35 kg/m2 (mean age 38.6 ± 8.9 years, BMI 48.7 ± 9.0 kg/m2; 323 females, 106 males) were included.

Results

The diagnosis of LVH in MOPs was confirmed only by RaVL of 7.5 mm, Cornell index of 12.5 mm; Cornell index × QRS duration of 1,125 mm × ms and Romhilt–Estes score of 1. None of the criteria proposed to date is appropriate in super‐morbidly obese patients.

Conclusion

Our study confirmed that none of the currently used voltage‐based ECG criteria is appropriate for diagnosing LVH in morbidly obese patients. Further studies are required.
New drug controls and reduced hospital presentations due to novel psychoactive substances in Edinburgh
Authors: Pettie Janice , Burt Allan , Knipe Duleeka W. , Torrance Hazel , Dow Margaret , Osinski Karen , Greig Robert , Sabatini Diletta , Easterford Kate , Dear James , Eddleston Michael
Published: June 2018

Aims

Recreational use of novel psychoactive substance (NPS) has become increasingly common. We aimed to assess the association of national legislation and local trading standards activity with hospital presentations.

Methods

We established observational cohorts of patients with recreational drug toxicity presenting to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary and dying with detectable recreational drugs in Edinburgh. We assessed associations with two temporary class drug‐orders (April 2015: methylphenidates, Nov 2015: methiopropamine), the Psychoactive Substances Act (June 2016), and trading standards forfeiture orders (October 2015).

Results

The methylphenidate temporary class drug‐order was associated with rapid 46.7% (P = 0.002) and 21.0% (P = 0.003) reductions in presentations and admissions, respectively, for NPS drug toxicity, comparing 12 months before with 6 months after. The change was greatest for ethylphenidate toxicity (96.7% reduction in admissions, P < 0.001) that was partly offset by a tripling in synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonist cases (P < 0.001) over the next 6 months. This increase reversed following trading standards activity removing all NPS drugs from local shops in October 2015, associated with 64.3% (P < 0.001) and 83.7% (P < 0.001) reductions in presentations and admissions, respectively, for all NPS drugs over the next 12 months. The effect was sustained and associated with a reduced postmortem detection of stimulant NPS drugs. The two interventions prevented an estimated 557 (95% confidence interval 327–934) NPS admissions during 2016, saving an estimated £303 030 (£177 901–508 133) in hospital costs.

Conclusions

We show here that drug legislation and trading standards activity may be associated with effective and sustained prevention. Widespread adoption of trading standards enforcement, together with focused legislation, may turn the tide against these highly‐damaging drugs.
Hospitalisation and readmission costs after radical cystectomy in a nationally representative sample: does urinary reconstruction matter?
Authors: Joice Gregory A. , Chappidi Meera R. , Patel Hiten D. , Kates Max , Sopko Nikolai A. , Stimson C. J. , Pierorazio Phillip M. , Bivalacqua Trinity J.
Published: June 2018

Objective

To investigate the impact of continent urinary diversion on readmissions and hospital costs in a nationally representative sample of radical cystectomies (RCs) performed in the USA.

Patients and Methods

The 2010–2014 Nationwide Readmissions Database was queried for patients with a diagnosis of bladder cancer who underwent RC. We identified patients undergoing continent (neobladder or continent cutaneous reservoir) or incontinent (ileal conduit) diversions. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify predictors of 90‐day readmission, prolonged length of stay, and total hospital costs.

Results

Amongst 21 126 patients identified, 19 437 (92.0%) underwent incontinent diversion and 1 689 (8.0%) had a continent diversion created. Continent diversion patients were younger, healthier, and treated at high‐volume metropolitan centres. Continent diversions resulted in fewer in‐hospital complications (37.3% vs 42.5%, P = 0.02) but led to more 90‐day readmissions (46.5% vs 39.6%, P = 0.004). In addition, continent diversion patients were more often readmitted for infectious complications (38.7% vs 29.4%, P = 0.004) and genitourinary complications (18.5% vs 13.0%, P = 0.01). On multivariable logistic regression, patients with a continent diversion were more likely to be readmitted within 90 days (odds ratio [OR] 1.55, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.28, 1.88) and have increased hospital costs during initial hospitalisation (OR 1.99, 95% CI: 1.52, 2.61). Continent diversion led to a $4 617 (American dollars) increase in initial hospital costs ($36 640 vs $32 023, P < 0.001), which was maintained at 30 days ($48 621 vs $44 231, P < 0.001) and at 90 days ($56 380 vs $52 820, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

In a nationally representative sample of RCs performed in the USA, continent urinary diversion led to more frequent readmissions and increased hospital costs. Interventions designed to address specific outpatient issues with continent diversions can potentially lead to a significant decrease in readmissions and associated hospital costs.