bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determining the content of vesicles captured by golgin tethers using LOPIT-DC
Authors: Shin John J.H. , Crook Oliver M. , Borgeaud Alicia , Cattin-Ortolá Jérôme , Peak-Chew Sew-Yeu , Chadwick Jessica , Lilley Kathryn S. , Munro Sean
Published: November 2019

The internal organisation of the cell depends on tethers at destination organelles to selectively capture incoming transport vesicles to facilitate SNARE-mediated fusion. The golgin long coiled-coil proteins function as tethers that contributes to this specificity at the Golgi (1). Golgin-97, golgin-245 and GCC88 golgins of the trans-Golgi capture vesicles derived from endosomes, which serve to recycle the critical Golgi machinery required to deliver lysosomal hydrolases and to maintain exocytosis. Retrograde trafficking from endosomes to the trans-Golgi network (TGN) is a complex process that involves the sorting of transmembrane cargo proteins into distinct transport vesicles by adaptors from multiple pathways. The content of these distinct vesicles, which golgin they target and the factors that mediate this targeting are not well understood. The major challenges that have limited advances in these areas is the transient nature of vesicle tethering, and the redundancies in their mechanisms that confound experimental dissection. To gain better insight into these problems, we performed organelle proteomics using the Localisation of Organelle Proteins by Isotope Tagging after Differential ultraCentrifugation (LOPIT-DC) method on a system in which an ectopic golgin causes vesicles to accumulate in a tethered state (2). By incorporating Bayesian statistical modelling into our analysis (3), we determined that over 45 transmembrane proteins and 51 peripheral membrane proteins of the endosomal network are on vesicles captured by golgin-97, including known cargo and components of the clathrin/AP-1, retromer-dependent and -independent transport pathways. We also determined a distinct class of vesicles shared by golgin-97, golgin-245 and GCC88 that is enriched in TMEM87A, a multi-pass transmembrane protein of unknown function that has previously been implicated in endosome-to-Golgi retrograde transport (4). Finally, we categorically demonstrate that the vesicles that these golgins capture are retrograde transport vesicles based on the lack of enrichment of lysosomal hydrolases in our LOPIT-DC data, and from correlative light electron tomography images of spherical vesicles captured by golgin-97. Together, our study demonstrates the power of combining LOPIT-DC with Bayesian statistical analysis in interrogating the dynamic spatial movement of proteins in transport vesicles.
α-Nickel sulfate hexahydrate crystals: relationship of growth conditions, crystal structure and properties
Authors: Choudhury R. R. , Chitra R. , Makarova I. P. , Manomenova V. L. , Rudneva E. B. , Voloshin A. E. , Koldaeva M. V.
Published: November 2019

Studies on α-nickel sulfate hexahydrate (NSH) crystals grown under different conditions are undertaken to investigate how changes in growth conditions affect crystal properties and whether or not there is any modification of the average crystal structure due to changes in crystallization conditions. Thermogravimetric and microhardness studies were carried out on the crystals grown from two different aqueous solutions, one of them containing an excess of sulfuric acid. Raman spectra were recorded and a single-crystal neutron diffraction investigation was conducted on both crystals. A detailed comparison between the two crystal structures and their Raman spectra showed that, although the two crystal structures are very similar, there are slight differences, such as the change in unit-cell volume, differences in the ionic structure, particularly of the sulfate ions, and changes in the hydrogen-bonding network. During solution crystal growth of a salt like NSH, varying the ionic environment around the solute ions influences the interionic interactions between them. Hence it is suggested that the above-mentioned structural differences result from a fine-tuning of the interionic interaction between the cations and anions of NSH in the solution phase. This difference is finally carried over to the crystalline phase. The resulting small crystal structure differences are enough to produce measurable changes in the thermal stability and fragility of the crystals. These differences in crystal properties can be explained on the basis of the observed structural differences between the two crystals grown under different conditions.
C, N dual-doped ZnO nanofoams: a potential antimicrobial agent, an efficient visible light photocatalyst and SXAS studies
Authors: Kiran Kumar A. B. V. , Billa Sanjeev , Shankar Edugulla Girija , Subha M. C. S.
Published: November 2019

It is crucial to develop an environmentally friendly and low-cost method to treat industrial effluent that contains soluble dyes and microbes. Most of the photocatalysts have been studied using an external light source that increases the cost of the purification process of effluent. This study focuses on developing efficient solar photocatalytic nanofoams. The controlled growth of ZnO nanofoams (CNZ nanofoams) in a simple method of thermal oxidation using a soft template is reported. Prepared nanofoams are characterized using X-ray diffraction, scanning electon microscopy and synchrotron soft X-ray absorption spectroscopy. By photocatalysis studies under direct sunlight it was found that within 120 min CNZ nanofoams degraded 99% of the dye. In addition, antimicrobial studies of multi-drug-resistant E. Fergusonii isolated from wastewater was carried out. These antimicrobial results showed a good inhibition zone, indicating that prepared nanofoams are both an effective solar photocatalyst and an antimicrobial agent.
Three-dimensional morphology of anatase nanocrystals obtained from supercritical flow synthesis with industrial grade TiOSO4 precursor
Authors: Yu Jinlong , Søndergaard-Pedersen Frederik , Mamakhel Aref , Lamagni Paolo , Brummerstedt Iversen Bo
Published: November 2019

Anatase TiO2 (a-TiO2) nanocrystals are vital in catalytic applications both as catalysts (e.g. photodegradation) and as a carrier material (e.g. NOx removal from exhaust). The synthesis of a-TiO2 nanocrystals and their properties have been heavily scrutinized, but there exists a clear gap between the scientific literature, and the scale and price expectation of industrial application. Here it is demonstrated that the industrially most attractive Ti precursor, titanyl sulfate (TiOSO4), can be combined with the green, scalable and fast supercritical flow method to produce phase pure and highly crystalline a-TiO2 nanoparticles with high specific surface area. Control of the nanocrystal morphology is important since it is known that certain facets substantially promote catalytic activity. It is, however, in itself challenging to determine nanocrystal morphology to provide a rational basis for the synthesis control. Here we advocate the use of advanced Rietveld refinement of powder X-ray diffraction data including anisotropic size broadening models in aiding to establish the sample three-dimensional morphology. This relatively quick and robust method assists in overcoming the often encountered ambiguity inherent in two-dimensional to three-dimensional reconstruction of selected particle morphologies with transmission electron microscopy and tomography techniques.
Effect of pressure on the order–disorder phase transitions of B cations in AB′1/2
B′′1/2O3 perovskites
Authors: Ter-Oganessian Nikita V. , Sakhnenko Vladimir P.
Published: November 2019

Perovskite-like oxides AB′1/2
B′′1/2O3 may experience different degrees of ordering of the B cations that can be varied by suitable synthesis conditions or post-synthesis treatment. In this work the earlier proposed statistical model of order–disorder phase transitions of B cations is extended to account for the effect of pressure. Depending on the composition, pressure is found to either increase or decrease the order–disorder phase transition temperature. The change in transition temperature due to pressure in many cases reaches several hundred kelvin at pressures accessible in the laboratory, which may significantly change the degree of atomic ordering. The work is intended to help in determining how pressure influences the degree of atomic ordering and to stimulate research into the effect of pressure on atomic order–disorder phase transitions in perovskites.
Quality assurance in Afghan higher education: achievements and challenges
Authors: Welch Anthony , Wahidyar Attaullah
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the development of quality assurance (QA) processes in higher education in Afghanistan and chart and assess the current achievements and challenges. Drawing on fieldwork, documentary research and secondary sources, the analysis seeks to integrate these elements into an integrated overall analysis of the phenomenon of QA in Afghan higher education, including its evolution over time, with some attention given to the implications for future development.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology is based on field study, conducted by one of the authors, interviews with the Ministry of Higher Education officials by the second author, collection and analysis of policy documents and review of relevant literature.

Findings

Key findings reveal some tensions between stated policies regarding QA in Afghan higher education: limited finance, growing levels of insecurity and limited capacity within the Ministry of Higher Education, including staff training. Some barriers within higher education institutions are also pointed out in both public and private higher educational institutions.

Research limitations/implications

Implications of the research are that although further funding is needed to institute QA in higher education institutions, both public and private, this is unlikely in the current circumstances, with donor funds limited and commitments not always fulfilled. Anti-corruption measures will continue to be important, and declining security, in some provinces more than others, will likely limit the effective implementation of QA measures.

Practical implications

Given current conditions in Afghanistan, there are clear practical limits to what can be achieved in strengthening QA in higher education. The undoubted enthusiasm of the people, however, means that the situation must be addressed as far as possible. Greater engagement with regional QA networks, more training for QA assessors and greater regulation of the burgeoning private sector would go a long way to bring about improvement, as would ongoing efforts to rein in corruption.

Social implications

An important move regarding direct social implications would be to maintain and strengthen moves to engage more women in higher education, including higher proportions of (senior) female administrative and academic staff. Although barriers to women’s empowerment are by no means restricted to the higher education sector, it should show the lead in both enrolment and employment.

Originality/value

While QA in higher education is a major focus of higher education literature, there are less research studies on QA measures in developing country contexts and even less on fragile states such as Afghanistan. But for the country to prosper, good quality higher education is vital, and a study of the implementation of QA measures is an important contribution.
Market power, ownership and technical efficiency
Authors: Dai Jiawu , Li Xun
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to estimate oligopsony power in the upstream factor market and oligopoly power in the downstream product market. On this basis, the paper intends to examine the effects of both oligopsony and oligopoly power as well as ownership on technical efficiency which were rarely discussed in previous studies.

Design/methodology/approach

First, based on the stochastic frontier production function, the paper constructs a new model that is capable to estimate oligopsony power for each observation. Second, the paper employs the popular dual stochastic frontier cost function to estimate marginal cost as well as oligopoly power. Then, the system GMM method with different sets of instrumental variables is applied to test the effects of the two-sided market power and ownership on technical efficiency.

Findings

Using unbalanced panel data at the firm level, the paper demonstrates that oligopsony power is significantly variant across different sectors. The most notable point is that oligopsony power in China’s soya and peanut oil industries is negative, while that in pork and beef industries is much stronger than those in other industries. In addition, state-owned enterprises (SOEs) are found to be less technically efficient in most of the selected industries, while SOEs with higher oligopsony power tend to be more technically efficient than non-state-owned enterprises(NSOEs), which is consistent with the quiet life hypothesis.

Originality/value

This paper sheds light mainly on three aspects. First, it proposes a new model to estimate oligopsony power for each single firm. Second, it tests the effect of oligopsony power on technical efficiency. Third, it distinguishes the differential effect of oligopsony power on technical efficiency between SOEs and NSOEs.
Unveiling corporate values in a crisis-prone world: a cross-cultural study
Authors: Geysi Nilüfer , Türkel Selin , Uzunoğlu Ebru
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to compare corporate values of companies that exist in a volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous environment via semantic network analysis (SNA) approach. A secondary aim is to juxtapose these values with the expected values in turmoil from a cross-cultural perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper examines values statements of companies in Fortune 500 rankings of Turkey and the USA in 2016. The data regarding expected values in turmoil are obtained through expert appraisal from 20 public relations scholars from each country. SNA method is applied in both stages of the study.

Findings

Findings show several common values for Turkish and American companies (e.g. customer focused and honest). However, Turkey reflects developing country values, such as “development oriented,” while American companies have post-materialist values, such as “respectful.” According to academicians’ perspectives, ideal corporate values should represent long-term orientation and relationship building.

Practical implications

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first comparative study to take a network approach in the systematic examination corporate values in a business world that is threatened by crisis. Therefore, the results will generate implications for the corporate literature in addition to providing guidelines for corporate communication professionals.

Originality/value

This study is innovative in both context and methodology, comparing corporate values that exist in different sociocultural contexts via SNA, an approach which allows in-depth cultural analysis based on quantitative data.
Social media usage and activism by non-western budding PR professionals during crisis communication
Authors: Kutoglu Kuruç Ulfet , Opiyo Baruck
Published: November 2019

Purpose

A number of studies have documented the use and popularity of social networking sites among Millennials and late Millennials, especially in Western countries. However, the usage of these sites by non-Western young adults/late Millennials has just barely begun. Informed by literature and findings of recent research on audience information-seeking behavior and principles governing the usage of social media to obtain and disseminate crisis-related information, the purpose of this paper is to employ survey research to examine how senior PR-track non-Western late Millennial university students use social media to obtain and/or disseminate information on issues they perceived as “crises.”

Design/methodology/approach

A combination of survey research and critical communication methods were used to gather and analyze data from a sample of future non-Western budding PR professionals. Survey research was designed and used to investigate social media use among PR-major students studying at a large State University in the Mediterranean region to probe their perceptions of these media as forums for activism during moments of crisis. Questionnaire was designed to elicit responses on social media use and perceptions on a range of crisis-communication related issues, and their responses on the Likert scale that were later analyzed using the SPSS (version 21) program.

Findings

These future PR professionals appreciated the suitability of social media in disseminating crisis-communication messages. They also highlighted challenges that unethical use of such platforms pose to PR professionals. Social network sites were reported to be the most popular social media platforms used during crisis communication. Even though the respondents widely reported using social media to disseminate information during crisis situations – and answered in the affirmative that the use of social media at such times could positively contribute to social change, they did not consider themselves as activists who actively contribute to fostering of peace and justice.

Originality/value

A number of studies have documented the use of social networking sites among Millennials especially in Western countries. However, the usage of these sites by non-Western late Millennials has just barely begun. This paper attempts to do this. The study explored social media usage by the non-Western late Millennial PR-track university students. Attempts were also made to elicit such PR professionals’ perceptions of whether social media contribute to activist movements and social change during crisis, and whether they physically acted as activist on social media to contribute to the improvement of societal ills, and to bring local/global peace or not.
Transferring family logic within a multinational corporation
Authors: Iwashita Hitoshi
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to extend the understandingof how family logic is transferred through mundane practices across the subsidiaries of a Japanese multinational corporation (MNC) in different national contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to fulfil this purpose, a comparative qualitative case study was adopted with emphasis on actors’ interpretations.

Findings

Through qualitative data analysis, three findings and their theoretical significances can be summarised. First, it was found that the constellations of family, market and religion logics were transferred differently. This is significant for Japanese management scholars since it illuminates the importance of actors who perceive the (non-) necessity of logics in a Japanese MNC facing institutional dualities. Second, it was found that the family logic is enacted at different levels and with different boundaries. This is significant for both institutionalists and international business scholars since it highlights the strong influence of language and religion in the transfer of logics from one country to another. Third, it was found that the enactment of the family logic greatly affects the acceptability of Japanese management practices. This is significant for business managers since it further proposes an intimate relationship between Japanese management practices and the meanings attached to the family logic.

Originality/value

The originality of this work stems from an updated comparative qualitative study of the management of a Japanese MNCs’ subsidiaries across different countries, providing in-depth insights for international business, Japanese subsidiary management and institutional logics perspectives.
Uncovering the determinants of pro-environmental consumption for green hotels and green restaurants
Authors: Han Heesup , Moon Hyoungeun , Hyun Sunghyup Sean
Published: November 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to uncover the determining factors of customers’ pro-environmental intention for green hospitality products (green hotels and green restaurants) and explore the comparative importance among the factors. This study also investigated the difference in forming pro-environmental intention across the green hospitality product types.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed-method approach was taken to achieve the research objectives. In a qualitative phase, the textual data collected via an open-ended question were analyzed using a unit of analysis and categorization method. In a quantitative phase, the psychometric measurement items were organized and validated through a series of tests. A structural equation modeling and structural invariance test were used to evaluate the hypothesized relationships and difference between green hotels and green restaurants.

Findings

The textual data yielded three additional factors underlying consumers’ pro-environmental consumption intention. Including five core variables derived from the extant theories in the pro-environmental behavior literature, eight variables were categorized into volitional, cognitive, emotional and moral dimensions. Among the dimensions, volitional and cognitive dimensions significantly contributed to consumer’ pro-environmental intention. The influence of pro-environmental attitude and perceived benefits on intention differed across green hotels and green restaurants.

Originality/value

This study uses a thorough mixed-method approach encompassing qualitative and quantitative processes and develops the psychometric items to explore the drivers of customers’ pro-environmental consumption intention for green hospitality products. This research is also one of the very few studies that verified the difference in customers’ pro-environmental behavior between green hotels and green restaurants.
The mediating effect of self-efficacy on the relationship between moral judgement, empathy and social opportunity recognition in South Africa
Authors: Urban Boris , Galawe Jabulile
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Scholars researching entrepreneurship argue that the distinct characteristics of social entrepreneurs, together with the particular category of opportunities they pursue, invite us to further understand social entrepreneurship (SE) as a distinct field of investigation. The purpose of this paper is to investigate opportunity recognition behaviour of social entrepreneurs and closely related unique attributes of empathy, moral judgement (MRJ) and self-efficacy, in an emerging market African context.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was administered to social entrepreneurs across two of the largest provinces in South Africa, namely Cape Town and Gauteng. Hypotheses were statistically tested using correlational analysis and hierarchical regression with mediation effects.

Findings

Results reveal that social entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE) plays a significant mediating effect in the relationship between MRJ and social opportunity recognition. Moreover, perceived MRJ and social ESE act as important determinants of increased social opportunity recognition.

Originality/value

This study has brought to attention the relevance of opportunity recognition to social entrepreneurs, while recognising their distinctive features in terms of empathy and MRJ. While self-efficacy and opportunity recognition are relatively well established in the traditional entrepreneurship literature, this study extends the reach of these variables into the SE domain.
Haptic information processing and need for touch in product evaluation
Authors: Jha Subhash , Balaji M.S. , Stafford Marla B. Royne , Spears Nancy
Published: November 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the effects of purchase environment, product type and need for touch (NFT) on cognitive response, affective response and overall product evaluation in the USA and India.

Design/methodology/approach

Two experiments were conducted in two different consumer markets. In Study 1, participants evaluated haptic and non-haptic products and gave responses on cognitive response, affective response and overall product evaluation measures in the US market. In Study 2, the authors replicate Study 1 in a culturally different market of India and extend Study 1 by examining the moderating role of instrumental and autotelic dimensions of NFT on the effect of purchase environment on cognitive and affective responses.

Findings

Research findings suggest that cognitive and affective responses are the underlying mechanism between the purchase environment and overall response only for haptic product among Indian consumers. In contrast, affective response is the underlying mechanism explaining this relationship among US consumers. Furthermore, the instrumental dimension of NFT moderates the impact of purchase environment on cognitive but the autotelic NFT moderates the effect of purchase environment on affective response only for the haptic product but not for the non-haptic product.

Research limitations/implications

The study uses a relatively homogenous sample in the Indian market in contrast to the US market.

Practical implications

Results advance the understanding of the importance of haptic information processing in consumer decision-making across different purchase environments, product types and NFT using psychological distance (proximity) as a theoretical underpinning. With non-haptic shopping environments (i.e. online and mobile) growing rapidly, the results have critical implications for development of marketing strategies in Asian and US markets.

Originality/value

Empirical research examining the underlying mechanism by which purchase environment influences overall evaluation for haptic product is scarce. Additionally, understanding of the differential roles of instrumental and autotelic dimensions of NFT on cognitive and affective responses is very limited. This research fills this void and provides an understanding of the specific environment in evaluating haptic and non-haptic products in two distinct markets.
The effect of earnings management on the reputation of family and non-family firms
Authors: Salehi Mahdi , Hoshmand Mahsa , Rezaei Ranjbar Hossein
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of earnings management (EM) on the reputation of family and non-family firms in companies listed on the Tehran Stock Exchange.

Design/methodology/approach

Data of variables under study are gathered from audited financial statements disclosed through official websites of firms Tehran Stock Exchange market using the multiple regression model for 156 firms during a five-year period (2012–2016). Two hypotheses are developed for achieving the objectives of the study. To analyze the data, a panel data model through Stata Software is applied. F-Limer and Hausman test are employed to modify the appropriate fitting regression model. Also, basic hypotheses of each model are implemented using the White and Hadri tests.

Findings

The obtained results suggest a negative and significant relationship between discretionary accrual (DA) management and the reputation of family firms. Furthermore, it is found that there is a significant and negative relationship between real accrual management and the reputation of family firms, and subsequently, there is a significant and negative relationship between DA management and non-family firms, and there is a significant and negative relationship between real EM and the reputation of non-family firms.

Originality/value

In this study, due to focus on the effect of reputation and special methods of authorities on family and non-family firms and EM, a number of firms which contribute to the literature of the field are proposed.
Combatting the financing of terrorism in Austria, Germany, Liechtenstein and Switzerland
Authors: Teichmann Fabian Maximilian Johannes
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Whilst the existing literature focuses on developing prevention mechanisms for banks, this paper aims to show how feasible it still is in Austria, Germany, Liechtenstein and Switzerland to finance terrorism without getting detected.

Design/methodology/approach

A three-step research process, including both qualitative and quantitative methods, was applied. The empirical findings are based upon qualitative content analysis of 15 informal interviews with illegal financial services providers and 15 formal interviews with compliance experts and law enforcement officers.

Findings

During those interviews, concrete and specific methods of financing terrorism and limiting the risks of facing a criminal prosecution were discussed. The interviews were analyzed based upon a qualitative content analysis. To assess the risk, which criminals, a quantitative survey among 181 compliance officers was conducted to determine what leads to investigations.

Research limitations/implications

The findings are limited to the 30 interviewees’ and 181 survey participants’ perspective.

Practical implications

The practical implications include suggestions for providing law enforcement and intelligence agencies with new tools, such as remote online searches of electronic devices.

Originality/value

Whilst the empirical findings are based upon Austria, Germany, Liechtenstein and Switzerland, the results could be applied on European level.
Leading by limitation? Language and communication within the workplace
Authors: Foster Anna
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Language and how it is communicated within organisations is a complex situation. The purpose of this paper is to provide a perspective on the practice of issuing style guides and restrictive word lists as highlighted in the recent media through the case of Leader of the House of Commons, Mr Rees-Mogg.

Design/methodology/approach

A key focus is the question whether the approach of limiting language and guiding communication through such a directive is effective in developing understanding amongst work-based learners and facilitating both consistency and quality of communications. The paper looks to draw upon both educational and psychological perspectives to underpin the discussion of how such an approach has been implemented and the resulting impact upon those working with such rules of guidance.

Findings

Conclusions drawn highlight that professionals learning at work may fail to understand the rationale for why guidelines have been issued to them. Subsequently, the work-based learner may feel othered by the process thus effecting motivation and well-being.

Originality/value

The paper offers a perspective on an approach utilised by a leader within the UK Government, exploring it through the lens of education and English Language development to discuss the potential impact upon employees within the workplace.
Does size matter? In-library study of two Canadian public library branches
Authors: Shepherd John , Petrillo Larissa , Wilson Allan
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to summarize a library use study of the central and community branches of a Canadian public library. An exit survey documented the in-branch activities of users as a part of a library strategic planning process. Survey results were used in combination with branch statistics, postal code circulation statistics, neighbourhood demographics and other data sources to document the in-library use of the two facilities.

Design/methodology/approach

Questionnaires were administered to library users 15 years of age or older at the exits of the central and community branches. The survey collected data on their activities and services used during their current visit. Additional sources such as branch-level statistics, furniture tally sheets, photographs, Canada Census data and circulation analysis by patron postal code and lending branch were used during the analysis stage.

Findings

Both branches are heavily used but in different ways. Branch circulation and gate count per square foot of floor space were high relative to other Canadian libraries. Patron visits to the community branch were short in duration, in line with previous public library studies. User visit duration and in-library activities within the main branch somewhat resembled those of the central branch of a larger library system but likely for different reasons.

Research limitations/implications

The study was exploratory. Data were collected during two coinciding days of library operation, a Thursday and a Saturday, and may not be representative of the underlying population. The study was limited in scope as it was a community service project for undergraduate university students.

Practical implications

Branch library use surveys, in combination with library statistics and demographics, can provide useful insights concerning in-library patron behaviour when the use of ethnographic techniques is not feasible.

Originality/value

The study explored differences and similarities in user behaviour in two types of library facilities, a central and a community branch. Few published studies make such a direct comparison. The study explored the perceived benefits received by patrons from public library use and incorporated branch statistics, circulation analysis and Census data.
Impact evaluation using Difference-in-Differences
Authors: Fredriksson Anders , Oliveira Gustavo Magalhães de
Published: November 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to present the Difference-in-Differences (DiD) method in an accessible language to a broad research audience from a variety of management-related fields.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes the DiD method, starting with an intuitive explanation, goes through the main assumptions and the regression specification and covers the use of several robustness methods. Recurrent examples from the literature are used to illustrate the different concepts.

Findings

By providing an overview of the method, the authors cover the main issues involved when conducting DiD studies, including the fundamentals as well as some recent developments.

Originality/value

The paper can hopefully be of value to a broad range of management scholars interested in applying impact evaluation methods.
Metabolomic Profiling of Carotenoid Constituents in Physalis peruviana During Different Growth Stages by LC‐MS/MS Technology
Authors: Yu Yougui , Chen Xuepeng , Zheng Qing
Published: November 2019

With the current ongoing changes in global food demands, natural carotenoids are preferred by consumers and are gaining attention among food scientists and producers alike. Metabolomic profiling of carotenoid constituents in Physalis peruviana during distinct on‐tree growth stages was performed with liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) technology. The results show that the β rings of β‐carotene are hydroxylated with great efficiency, and there is a continual synthesis of zeaxanthin at half‐ripe and full‐ripe stages, which is confirmed by relating the zeaxanthin content to that of its precursor (β‐carotene). Lutein was, in terms of mass intensity, the most abundant carotenoid constituent (64.61 µg/g at the half‐ripe stage) observed in this study. In addition, γ‐carotene, which is rare in dietary fruits and vegetables, was detected in the mature and breaker stages, albeit at a relatively low level. The results suggest that when we consider the variation in carotenoid content during different growth stages, Physalis peruviana can be considered a good source of natural carotenoids.
New‐onset postoperative atrial fibrillation after heart surgery
Authors: Gudbjartsson Tomas , Helgadottir Solveig , Sigurdsson Martin Ingi , Taha Amar , Jeppsson Anders , Christensen Thomas Decker , Riber Lars Peter Schoedt
Published: November 2019

Background

New‐onset postoperative atrial fibrillation (poAF) complicates approximately 20‐60% of all cardiac surgical procedures and is associated with an increased periprocedural mortality and morbitity, prolonged hospital stay, increased costs, and worse long‐term survival. Unfortunately multiple advances in surgery and perioperative care over the last two decades have not led to a reduction in the incidence of poAF or associated complications in the daily clinical practice.

Methods

A narrative review of the available literature was performed.

Results

An extensive review of the pathophysiology of poAF following cardiac surgery, clinical, and procedural risk‐factors is provided, as well as prophylactic measures and treatment.

Conclusion

Multiple strategies to prevent and manage poAF following heart surgery already exist. Our hope is that this review will facilitate more rigorous testing of prevention strategies, implementation of prophylaxis regimens as well as optimal treatment of this common and serious complication.
Building RAFT: Trafficking Screening Tool Derivation and Validation Methods
Authors: Chisolm‐Straker Makini , Singer Elizabeth , Rothman Emily F. , Clesca Cindy , Strong David , Loo George T. , Sze Jeremy J. , d’Etienne James P. , Alanis Naomi , Richardson Lynne D.
Published: November 2019

Background

Labor and sex trafficking have long impacted the patients who seek care in emergency departments (ED) across the United States. Increasing social and legislative pressures have led to multiple calls for screening for trafficking in the clinical care setting, but adoption of unvalidated screening tools for trafficking recognition is unwise for individual patient care and population‐level data. Development of a valid screening tool for a social malady that is largely “invisible” to most clinicians requires significant investments. Valid screening tool development is largely a poorly understood process in the antitrafficking field and among clinicians who would use the tools.

Methods

The authors describe the study design and procedures for reliable data collection and analysis in the development of RAFT (Rapid Appraisal for Trafficking). In a five‐ED, randomized, prospective study, RAFT will be derived and validated as a labor and sex trafficking screening tool for use among adult ED patients. Using a novel method of ED patient‐participant randomization, intensively trained data collectors use qualitative data to assess subjects for a lifetime experience of human trafficking.

Conclusion

Study methodology transparency encourages investigative rigor and integrity and will allow other sites to reproduce and externally validate this study’s findings.
The warning of haze: weather and corporate investment
Authors: Zhang Xiuping , Wang Shouyang , Meng Qingbin , Wu Weixing
Published: November 2019

This paper investigates whether air quality affects corporate investment. Using a sample of Chinese A‐share listed firms from 2007 to 2013, this paper finds that poor air quality is negatively associated with corporate investment and reduction of corporate investment due to air pollution intensifies with manager risk aversion. In addition, this paper provides evidence against the alternative explanation that corporate investment decreases due to government air‐quality regulations. Furthermore, this paper also suggests that poor air quality is negatively associated with investment efficiency. These findings complement existing literature on how weather conditions affect corporate financial decisions.
Adrenal gland‐released vasostatin‐I is a myocardial depressant factor
Authors: Schneider Francis , Castelain Vincent , Herbrecht Jean‐Etienne , Hellé Sophie , Metz‐Boutigue Marie‐Hélène
Published: November 2019

Pheochromocytoma crisis is an exceptional consequence of the release of storage vesicles of the adrenal medulla. It is complicated by fulminant adrenergic myocarditis. It offers a unique opportunity to detect inotropic negative factors from neuroendocrine origin. Our objectives were (a) to describe a pheochromocytoma crisis, (b) to investigate in vivo myocardial depressant activities for the N‐terminal 1‐76 Chromogranin A‐derived peptide, vasostatin‐I (VS‐I). A patient with a pheochromocytoma crisis was treated, including extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, until mass resection. Plasma concentrations of VS‐I were time‐dependently assessed with a specific immunoassay; correlations with invasive cardiovascular parameters were investigated. Increased VS‐I concentrations were observed over 7 days until tumour resection. VS‐I concentrations correlated positively with Chromogranin A levels, negatively with cardiac output and left ventricular stroke work index, but not with heart rate. This case illustrates the pharmacokinetics of VS‐I in a pheochromocytoma crisis. It highlights myocardial depressant activity for this peptide at high concentrations.
Off‐label use of tacrolimus in children with glomerular disease: Effectiveness, safety and pharmacokinetics
Authors: Hao Guo‐Xiang , Song Lin‐Lin , Zhang Dong‐Feng , Su Le‐Qun , Jacqz‐Aigrain Evelyne , Zhao Wei
Published: November 2019

Glomerular diseases are leading causes of end‐stage renal disease in children. Tacrolimus is frequently used off‐label in the treatment of glomerular diseases. The effectiveness, safety and pharmacokinetic data of tacrolimus in the treatment of glomerular diseases in children are reviewed in this paper to provide evidence to support its rational use in clinical practice. The remission rates in previously published studies were different. In 19 clinical trials on children with nephrotic syndrome, the overall remission rate was 52.6‐97.6%. In four clinical trials on children with lupus nephritis, the overall remission rate was 81.8‐89.5%. In a pilot study with paediatric Henoch‐Schönlein purpura nephritis patients, the overall remission rate was 100.0%. Infection, nephrotoxicity, gastrointestinal symptoms and hypertension are the most common adverse events. Body weight, age, CYP3A5 genotype, cystatin‐C and daily dose of tacrolimus may have significant effects on the pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus in children with glomerular disease. More prospective controlled trials with long follow‐up are needed to demonstrate definitely the effectiveness, safety and pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus in children with glomerular diseases.
TBET‐expressing Th1 CD4+T cells accumulate in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia without affecting disease progression in Eµ‐TCL1 mice
Authors: Roessner Philipp M. , Hanna Bola S. , Öztürk Selcen , Schulz Ralph , Llaó Cid Laura , Yazdanparast Haniyeh , Scheffold Annika , Colomer Dolors , Stilgenbauer Stephan , Lichter Peter , Seiffert Martina
Published: November 2019

Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is associated with alterations in T cell number, subset distribution and function. Among these changes, an increase in CD4+T cells was reported. CD4+T cells are a heterogeneous population and distinct subsets have been described to exert pro‐ and anti‐tumour functions. In CLL, controversial reports describing the dominance of IFNγ‐expressing Th1 T cells or of IL‐4‐producing Th2 T cells exist. Our study shows that blood of CLL patients is enriched in Th1 T cells producing high amounts of IFNγ. Moreover, we observed that their frequency remains relatively stable in CLL patients over a time course of five years. Furthermore, we provide evidence for an accumulation of Th1 T cells in the Eµ‐TCL1 mouse model of CLL. As TBET (encoded byTbx21)is a crucial transcription factor for Th1 polarization, we generatedTbx21−/−bone marrow chimaeric mice which showed a lower number of IFNγ‐producing Th1 T cells, and used them for adoptive transfer of Eµ‐TCL1 leukaemia. Disease development in these mice was, however, comparable to that in wild‐type controls, excluding a major role for TBET‐expressing Th1 cells in Eµ‐TCL1 leukaemia. Collectively, our data highlight that Th1 T cells accumulate in CLL but reducing their number has no impact on disease development.
Of deadly beans and risky stocks: Political ideology and attitude formation via exploration depend on the nature of the attitude stimuli
Authors: Fiagbenu Michael Edem , Proch Jutta , Kessler Thomas
Published: November 2019

An attitude formation task examined how conservatives and liberals explore information about novel stimuli and form attitudes towards them. When framed as the BeanFest game, conservatives sampled fewer beans and exhibited a stronger learning asymmetry (i.e., better learning for negative than positive beans) than liberals. This has been taken as strong evidence that conservatives are more sensitive to negative stimuli than liberals. We argue that the learning asymmetry and sampling bias by conservatives is due to framing of the game. In addition to the BeanFest, we framed the game as StockFest (i.e., a stock market game) where participants learned about novel stocks. We replicated the pronounced learning asymmetry for conservatives in the BeanFest game, but found a pronounced learning asymmetry for liberals in the StockFest game. We suggest that conservatives and liberals are equally sensitive to negative stimuli but in different domains.
The nociceptin/orphanin FQ receptor system as a target to alleviate cancer‐induced bone pain in rats: Model validation and pharmacological evaluation
Authors: Sliepen Sonny H.J. , Korioth Johanna , Christoph Thomas , Tzschentke Thomas M. , Diaz‐delCastillo Marta , Heegaard Anne‐Marie , Rutten Kris
Published: November 2019

Background and Purpose

Cancer‐induced bone pain remains inadequately controlled, and current standard of care analgesics is accompanied by several side effects. Nociceptin/orphanin FQ peptide (NOP) receptor agonists have demonstrated broad analgesic properties in rodent neuropathic and inflammatory pain models. Here, we investigate the analgesic potential of NOP receptor activation in a rodent cancer‐induced bone pain model.

Experimental Approach

Model validation by intratibial inoculation in male Sprague Dawley rats was performed with varying MRMT‐1/Luc2 cell quantities (0.5–1.5 × 106·ml−1) and a behavioural battery (>14 days post‐surgery) including evoked and non‐evoked readouts: paw pressure test, cold plate, von Frey, open field, and weight distribution. Anti‐allodynic potential of the endogenous NOP receptor ligand nociceptin (i.t.) and NOP receptor agonist Ro65‐6570 ( i.p.) was tested using von Frey filaments, followed by a combination experiment with Ro65‐6570 and the NOP receptor antagonist J‐113397 (i.p.). Plasma cytokine levels and NOP receptor gene expression in dorsal root ganglion (DRG, L4‐L6) and bone marrow were examined.

Key Results

Inoculation with 1.5 × 106·ml−1 of MRMT‐1/Luc2 cells resulted in a robust and progressive pain‐related phenotype. Nociceptin and Ro65‐6570 treatment inhibited cancer‐induced mechanical allodynia. J‐113397 selectively antagonized the effect of Ro65‐6570. MRMT‐1/Luc2‐bearing animals demonstrated elevated plasma cytokine levels of IL‐4, IL‐5, IL‐6 and IL‐10 plus unaltered NOP‐r gene expression in DRG and reduced expression in bone marrow.

Conclusion and Implications

Nociceptin and Ro65‐6570 selectively and dose‐dependently reversed cancer‐induced bone pain‐like behaviour. The NOP receptor system may be a potential target for cancer‐induced bone pain treatment.

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed issue on The molecular pharmacology of bone and cancer‐elated bone diseases. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v178.9/issuetoc