bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Buyer-supplier relational paradigm in internationalization process
Authors: Saleh Md Abu , Ali M. Yunus , Quazi Ali , Blackman Deborah
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore international buyer–supplier relationships in an emerging developing country context. The study examines a number of factors derived from internationalization process (IP) theory and their impacts in a novel research setting. The relational variables of trust and commitment, and their drivers, are integrated into a model examining importers’ perspectives of their supplier relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applied a sequential methodological approach. Initially, a conceptual framework was developed from qualitative research and then quantitatively validated using structural equation modeling (SEM). The data for this study were collected conducting in-depth interviews and survey questionnaires. For empirical validation, the SEM technique was applied to assess the proposed model.

Findings

Importing firm managers perceived that the commitment of their suppliers bolstered their trust in the relationship, this contrasts with the conventional contention of a reverse relationship. The findings confirm cultural similarity facilitates communication, leading to increased knowledge and experience of importers, thereby contributing to an enhanced commitment to build trust in the relationship.

Practical implications

The conceptual framework developed in this study provides a direction to manage and enhance understanding of IP and relationship outcome. The findings have strategic implications for practicing managers in developing and supporting their importer–foreign supplier relationships.

Originality/value

This study is unique in assessing as well as validating key constructs of IP theory in an international exchange (importer–supplier) relationship. The study offers completely a new insight in relation to applying IP theory’s relational perspectives.
The effect of the JOBS act on analyst coverage of emerging growth companies
Authors: Precourt Elena
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the section of the Jumpstart Our Business Startups (JOBS) Act related to information dissemination by sell-side security analysts. The paper analyzes how the abolishment of the quiet period requirements for emerging growth companies (EGCs) changes the analyst initiation timing and market expectation of and reaction to the issuance of the analyst recommendations.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper considers the effect of the abolishment of the quiet period requirements on analyst coverage initiations for EGCs with IPOs between January 2006 and December 2015 using regression analyses and probability models.

Findings

The results confirm the current anecdotal and empirical evidence that a shorter, de facto, quiet period exists. Analyst issue stronger average ratings for EGCs than for similar firms with IPOs before the JOBS Act. EGCs with initiations from multiple analysts also experience stronger positive market reaction than the firms with initial offerings before the JOBS Act. The market seems to anticipate which EGCs will have initiations and particularly which EGCs will have initiations from multiple analysts. The investors, however, do not fully anticipate the strength of actual recommendations.

Practical implications

This paper is important for researchers, practitioners and policy-makers to understand how analysts impact the financial markets, how timing of analyst initiations affects stock prices of EGCs and what firm characteristics play a role in securing analyst coverage shortly after initial offerings.

Originality/value

This paper adds to the emerging literature on consequences of and changes brought by the JOBS Act. Specifically, this paper extends the limited literature on analyst initiations issued for firms with IPOs following the JOBS Act, timing of those initiations and magnitude of the market’s response to the initiations.
Cultivating creative workplaces through mindfulness
Authors: Byrne Ellen Keithline , Thatchenkery Tojo
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how mindfulness training impacts creativity with individuals in a workgroup and propose a methodology for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology developed drew on existing laboratory-based research and applied those designs in a real-world application. The sample participants were from a mid-sized real estate firm that included ten realtors and support staff, six in the treatment group and four in the comparison group. The study took place over 16 weeks where pre-test and post-test mindfulness and creativity assessments were administered. A five-week mindfulness training was conducted with the treatment group and following the post-tests with the comparison group.

Findings

Results indicated that the mindfulness training positively impacted creativity in the moment and over time. There was evidence that the mindfulness training positively impacted an individual’s level of attention and awareness in daily activities which is likely to influence creative outcomes in organizational settings.

Research limitations/implications

This study shows that it is possible to design experimental studies in work settings and contribute to the empirical research about mindfulness despite the widely held perception about scarcity of time and lack of access to do such research. The findings also build on existing literature and address some of the gaps in current research. The most notable limitation relates to the small sample size.

Practical implications

The finding affirms that even a short but consistent practice of mindfulness in organizations can lead to a measurable increase in creativity.

Originality/value

This empirical study adds value to existing literature by expanding laboratory-based methodology to a practical application. One of the unique aspects of this research relates to the sample population. This research was conducted with an intact workgroup and translates the insights gained from laboratory research to a potential benefit for an organization by applying a version of this methodology to enhance its workgroup creativity.
Obesity, chronic job discrimination and social support
Authors: Kungu Kenneth , Melius Janella , Cannonier Colin , Wanga Valentine
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and chronic job discrimination. Additionally, the authors explore the contribution of various forms of social support to that relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

The data for this study were obtained from the National Survey of Midlife Development in the USA (MIDUS). Only those who reported being employed participated in the study (n= 1,150). The variables of interest included BMI, supervisor support, coworker support, family support, friend support, religious support and chronic job discrimination. Analysis included correlations, ANOVA’s and hierarchical linear regression.

Findings

BMI was positively associated with chronic job discrimination. Respondents in the obese and morbidly obese categories reported higher job discrimination compared to normal weight respondents. Family support, supervisor support and coworker support were associated with less reported chronic job discrimination.

Practical implications

Organizational leaders should acknowledge that obesity is associated with discrimination. Organizations should thus create anti-discrimination policies covering weight-based discrimination, conduct sensitivity training for all employees and train and coach supervisors on effective ways of offering support to employees.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the understanding of the role various forms of social support can play in reducing perceptions of chronic job discrimination. The paper is unique in that it considers several sources from which people draw support in managing for stressors.
The 2015 Chinese Food Safety Law and market quality
Authors: Wang Qizhi , Ota Rui
Published: January 2019

Safety standards, including food safety laws, provide necessary infrastructure to improve market quality. The present study investigates the impact of the revised Chinese Food Safety Law on the quality of China's food market. Using an event study approach, we empirically analyse the impact of nine official news events relating to the new Food Safety Law on the stock prices of companies engaged in food‐related businesses. The study demonstrates that three news events have a statistically significant and robust impact, and that all the events have a negative influence on the prices. The results show the possibility of a drop in market quality in the short term in the process of improving quality.
The Effects of Non‐tariff Measures on Agri‐food Trade: A Review and Meta‐analysis of Empirical Evidence
Authors: Santeramo Fabio Gaetano , Lamonaca Emilia
Published: January 2019

The increasing policy interest and academic debates on non‐tariff measures (NTMs) has stimulated a growing literature on how NTMs affect agri‐food trade. The empirical literature provides contrasting and heterogeneous evidence, with some studies supporting the ‘standards as catalysts’ view, and others favouring the ‘standards as barriers’ explanation. To the extent that NTMs can influence trade, understanding the prevailing effect, and the motivations behind one effect or the other, is a pressing issue. We review a large body of empirical evidence on the effect of NTMs on agri‐food trade and conduct a meta‐analysis to disentangle potential determinants of heterogeneity in estimates. Our findings show the role played by the publication process and by study‐specific assumptions. Some characteristics of the studies are correlated with positive significant estimates, others covary with negative significant estimates. Overall, we found that the effects of NTMs vary across types of NTM, proxies used for NTMs, and levels of detail of studies. The estimated effects are also influenced by methodological issues and publication processes.
Effect of Dietary Partial Hydrolysate of Phospholipids, Rich in Docosahexaenoic Acid‐Bound Lysophospholipids, on Lipid and Fatty Acid Composition in Rat Serum and Liver
Authors: Hosomi Ryota , Fukunaga Kenji , Nagao Toshihiro , Tanizaki Toshifumi , Miyauchi Kazumasa , Yoshida Munehiro , Kanda Seiji , Nishiyama Toshimasa , Takahashi Koretaro
Published: January 2019

Lysophospholipids have been recognized as potent biologically active lipid mediators. However, attention has not been paid to the health benefits of dietary partial hydrolysate of phospholipids (PH‐PL), which is rich in docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)‐bound lysophospholipids. In this study, the effects of PH‐PL on serum and liver lipid profiles of rats upon administration of PH‐PL are demonstrated in comparison to those of fish oil (FO), which comprises eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and DHA‐bound triglyceride (TG). PH‐PL containing EPA and DHA was prepared via enzymatic modification of squid (Todarodes pacificus) meal that is rich in phospholipids. Male Wistar rats were fed a basal diet containing soybean oil alone (7%), FO, and PH‐PL. The FO and PH‐PL diets had similar EPA and DHA contents. After the rats had been fed their respective diets for 28 d, their serum and liver lipid contents, fecal lipid excretion, and hepatic gene expression level were measured. The results demonstrated that compared with the soybean oil diet alone, the PH‐PL diet decreased serum and liver TG contents partially because of the enhancement of liver acyl‐CoA oxidase activity and suppression of liver fatty acid synthase activity. In addition, compared with the soybean oil diet, the PH‐PL group exhibited lower serum cholesterol content at least in part because of the reduction of hepatic 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl‐CoA reductase mRNA expression level. We found that dietary administration of EPA and DHA containing PH‐PL has a hypolipidemic effect that may help prevent the development lifestyle‐related diseases.
Effect of calcium hydroxide as intracanal medicament on the expression of caspase‐9 located within the radicular cyst epithelium
Authors: Kontogiannis Taxiarchis G. , Tosios Konstantinos I. , Kerezoudis Nikolaos P.
Published: January 2019

Apoptosis (a programmed cell death mechanism) within the radicular cyst epithelium has still not been correlated with any clinical factor. This study aimed to investigate the effect of calcium hydroxide on apoptosis, via the detection of caspase‐9. Thirty radicular cysts collected during apicoectomies and stored in paraffin were retrospectively retrieved. Conservative endodontic treatments had been carried out either without (group (a) n = 14), or with calcium hydroxide application (group (b), n = 16) before obturation. All cysts were immunohistochemically stained for caspase‐9 to record apoptosis of the epithelium. Statistical analysis followed. The frequency of caspase‐9 immunoreactivity in the cystic epithelium in the two groups was 42.86% and 93.75% of cysts respectively. This difference was statistically significant (P = 0.04 < 0.05). In cysts larger than (or equal to) 10 mm, caspase‐9 was more frequently expressed. It was found calcium hydroxide appears to enhance the expression of caspase‐9, especially in large lesions.
Guidelines for the peri‐operative care of people with dementia
Authors: White S. , Griffiths R. , Baxter M. , Beanland T. , Cross J. , Dhesi J. , Docherty A. B. , Foo I. , Jolly G. , Jones J. , Moppett I. K. , Plunkett E. , Sachdev K.
Published: January 2019

Ageing populations have greater incidences of dementia. People with dementia present for emergency and, increasingly, elective surgery, but are poorly served by the lack of available guidance on their peri‐operative management, particularly relating to pharmacological, medico‐legal, environmental and attitudinal considerations. These guidelines seek to deliver such guidance, by providing information for peri‐operative care providers about dementia pathophysiology, specific difficulties anaesthetising patients with dementia, medication interactions, organisational and medico‐legal factors, pre‐, intra‐ and postoperative care considerations, training, sources of further information and care quality improvement tools.
Simultaneous bilateral optic neuritis in China: clinical, serological and prognostic characteristics
Authors: Kang Hao , Liu Zihao , Li Hongyang , Chen Tingjun , Ai Nanping , Xu Quangang , Cao Shanshan , Tao Yong , Wei Shihui
Published: January 2019

Purpose

To analyse the clinical characteristics of simultaneous bilateral ON patients in China.

Methods

This retrospective study was done on 51 primary bilateral ON patients between April 2008 and July 2016 at the Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital. Fifty eight primary unilateral ON patients formed the control group. Demographic data, clinical course, serum autoantibody status, connective tissue disorders, magnetic resonance imaging and visual functions were compared.

Results

The mean age at disease onset in the bilateral group was younger than that of the unilateral group (p = 0.001). Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) total cell count and CSF total protein were significantly higher in the bilateral group (p = 0.001, p = 0.025). Aquaporin‐4 (AQP4) antibodies were detected in 39% and 21% of the bilateral and unilateral patients, respectively (p = 0.03). Twenty two percent of the bilateral patients fulfilled the diagnosis of neuromyelitis optica (NMO); 7% in the unilateral group did so (p = 0.03). Serum autoantibodies (ANA, SSA, SSB, etc.) were found in 49% of the bilateral patients and 29% of the unilateral patients (p = 0.035). After treatment, the bilateral patients were significantly more prone to severe visual disability eventually than their unilateral counterparts (p = 0.002). Patients with MOG‐IgG (myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein‐IgG) represented 26% of the patients negative for AQP4‐IgG. Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein‐IgG (MOG‐IgG) sero‐positive patients were more likely to recover than the other patients (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Simultaneous bilateral ON is a severe disorder closely related to serum AQP4‐IgG and MOG‐IgG, which are more likely to involve younger people and incur severe visual disability eventually. Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein‐IgG (MOG‐IgG) sero‐positive patients have higher risk of ON relapses and better visual prognosis.
Manipulation of oral medication for children by parents and nurses occurs frequently and is often not supported by instructions
Authors: van der Vossen Anna C. , Al‐Hassany Linda , Buljac Sandra , Brugma Jan‐Dietert , Vulto Arnold G. , Hanff Lidwien M.
Published: January 2019

Aim

Due to a lack of age‐appropriate formulations, administration of drugs to children remains a challenge. This study aimed to identify the problems experienced in both the outpatient setting and the clinical setting.

Methods

Between June 2017 and January 2018, we performed a cross‐sectional, prospective study at the Sophia Children's Hospital, The Netherlands. The study comprised of a structured interview on drug manipulations with parents visiting the outpatient clinic, and an observational study of drug manipulations by nurses at the wards.

Results

A total of 201 questionnaires were collected, accounting for 571 drugs and 169 manipulations (30%). Drug substances that were most often mentioned as manipulated were macrogol (n = 23), esomeprazole (n = 15), paracetamol (n = 8), methylphenidate (n = 7) and melatonin (n = 7). Of all manipulated medicines, 93/169 (55%) were manipulated according to the instructions or recommendations of the Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) or patient information leaflet. During the observational study, manipulation was performed by 21/35 of observed nurses (60%), of whom 11 deviated from the hospital protocol for manipulation or SmPC (52%).

Conclusion

Manipulation was a widely used method to administer drugs to children. Validated information regarding manipulation of drugs for both parents and nursing staff is needed.
Biochemically confirmed smoking cessation and gestational weight gain
Authors: Rockhill Karilynn M. , England Lucinda J. , Tong Van T. , Sharma Andrea J.
Published: January 2019

Background

Prenatal smoking cessation has substantial health benefits for mothers and offspring, but concerns about weight gain may be a barrier to quitting. We quantified gestational weight gain associated with biochemically confirmed smoking cessation.

Methods

Data originated from a randomized controlled cessation trial: Smoking Cessation in Pregnancy project (1987‐1991). We calculated gestational weight gain using self‐reported prepregnancy weight and measured weight at 30‐34 weeks of gestation. We used linear regression to estimate adjusted mean differences in gain for quitters versus continuing smokers by the last trimester. The effects of quitting earlier (by 2nd trimester) versus later (by 3rd trimester) were calculated. We assessed the percentages who gained weight according to Institute of Medicine (IOM) recommendations within 2 weeks of a full‐term delivery.

Results

At 30‐34 weeks, nulliparous and multiparous quitters gained an average of 3.0 pounds (95% CI 0.9‐5.1 pounds) (1.4 kg [0.4‐2.3 kg]) and 6.6 pounds (95% CI 4.3‐8.9 pounds) (3.0 kg [1.9‐4.0 kg]) more, respectively, than continuing smokers. Weight gain in early quitters did not differ significantly from that in late quitters. Quitters were more likely than continuing smokers to gain above current guidelines (60.3% vs 46.3%) and were less likely to gain below guidelines (11.5% vs 21.6%) (P = 0.002).

Conclusions

Although quitters had modest additional weight gain by 30‐34 weeks compared to continuing smokers, a high proportion in both groups gained in excess of IOM recommendations. Both quitters and continuing smokers may need support to achieve optimal gestational weight gain.
Thrombophilia screening and thromboprophylaxis may benefit specific ethnic subgroups with paediatric acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
Authors: Barzilai‐Birenboim Shlomit , Arad‐Cohen Nira , Nirel Ronit , Avrahami Galia , Harlev Dan , Gilad Gil , Elhasid Ronit , Izraeli Shai , Litichever Naomi , Elitzur Sarah
Published: January 2019

This study investigated the prevalence of inherited thrombophilia, risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and benefit of low molecular weight heparin prophylaxis in 476 Israeli children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) treated between 2004 and 2016. Thrombophilia was found in 15·5%. Arab children had a higher prevalence of F5 R506Q (factor V Leiden) than Jewish children (19·4% vs. 2·9%, P < 0·01). Patients with thrombophilia had higher VTE rates VTE (26·5% vs. 5·6%, P < 0·001). None of the thrombophilic children given prophylaxis had severe VTE. Routine evaluation for inherited thrombophilia followed by thromboprophylaxis when findings are positive may benefit at‐risk patients with ALL.
From the Rainy Place to the Burnt Palace: How Social Movements Form their Political Strategies. The Case of the Six Federations of the Tropic of Cochabamba
Authors: Oikonomakis Leonidas
Published: January 2019

How do social movements form their political strategies? The relevant theory pays considerable attention to structure, and argues that when political opportunities are open, movements are more likely to opt for a systemic political strategy; when they are closed, movements are expected to take a more revolutionary turn. However, political opportunities can make some options appear more ‘realistic’ and others less so, but movements don't always behave ‘realistically’. They might explain when movements are more likely to mobilise and what repertoires they adopt once they do so, but they do not account for what happens earlier on: by what mechanisms the movements form their political strategies. Exploring the case of the cocaleros of the Chapare, this article argues that more emphasis should be placed on mechanisms that are internal to the movements, such as: (a) the resonance of other political experiences at home and abroad, (b) internal struggles for ideological hegemony, and (c) the political formation of their grassroots.
Strain analysis of a seismically imaged mass‐transport complex, offshore Uruguay
Authors: Steventon Michael J. , Jackson Christopher A.‐L. , Hodgson David M. , Johnson Howard D.
Published: January 2019

Strain style, magnitude and distribution within mass‐transport complexes (MTCs) are important for understanding the process evolution of submarine mass flows and for estimating their runout distances. Structural restoration and quantification of strain in gravitationally driven passive margins have been shown to approximately balance between updip extensional and downdip contractional domains; such an exercise has not yet been attempted for MTCs. We here interpret and structurally restore a shallowly buried (c. 1,500 mbsf) and well‐imaged MTC, offshore Uruguay using a high‐resolution (12.5 m vertical and 15 × 12.5 m horizontal resolution) three‐dimensional seismic‐reflection survey. This allows us to characterise and quantify vertical and lateral strain distribution within the deposit. Detailed seismic mapping and attribute analysis shows that the MTC is characterised by a complicated array of kinematic indicators, which vary spatially in style and concentration. Seismic‐attribute extractions reveal several previously undocumented fabrics preserved in the MTC, including internal shearing in the form of sub‐orthogonal shear zones, and fold‐thrust systems within the basal shear zone beneath rafted‐blocks. These features suggest multiple transport directions and phases of flow during emplacement. The MTC is characterised by a broadly tripartite strain distribution, with extensional (e.g. normal faults), translational and contractional (e.g. folds and thrusts) domains, along with a radial frontally emergent zone. We also show how strain is preferentially concentrated around intra‐MTC rafted‐blocks due to their kinematic interactions with the underlying basal shear zone. Overall, and even when volume loss within the frontally emergent zone is included, a strain difference between extension (1.6–1.9 km) and contraction (6.7–7.3 km) is calculated. We attribute this to a combination of distributed, sub‐seismic, ‘cryptic’ strain, likely related to de‐watering, grain‐scale deformation and related changes in bulk sediment volume. This work has implications for assessing MTCs strain distribution and provides a practical approach for evaluating structural interpretations within such deposits.
Peat layer accumulation and post‐burial deformation during the mid‐late Holocene in the Po coastal plain (Northern Italy)
Authors: Bruno Luigi , Campo Bruno , Di Martino Andrea , Hong Wan , Amorosi Alessandro
Published: January 2019

Peat horizons are characteristic features of delta plains worldwide. In this study, we tested the use of peat‐based correlations to assess the deformation of Holocene strata in the Po coastal plain (Northern Italy). The Holocene stratigraphy, about 30 km inland from the modern coastline consists of a peat‐bearing, estuarine and deltaic succession, up to 23 m thick. Through the analysis of 31 core data and 100 piezocone penetration tests, we identified and mapped three 10–40 cm‐thick peat layers (T1–T3) dated to 6.6–5.8, 5.5–5.0 and 3.3–2.7 cal kyr BP respectively. These peat horizons were found to be suitable stratigraphic markers within the Holocene succession over an area of about 200 km2. The mid‐late Holocene palaeogeography, reconstructed through high‐resolution peat correlation, supported by 72 radiocarbon dates, highlights a typical upper delta plain environment, with ribbon‐shaped distributary channels and swamp interdistributary areas. Peat layers are inclined towards E‐NE with gradients that increase downsection from ~0.016% (T3) to 0.021% (T1). The gradient of the oldest peat horizon is one order of magnitude larger than the slope of the modern delta plain (~0.0025%). We infer that peat horizons accumulated during periods of low sediment supply mainly controlled by autogenic processes and were deformed after deposition. Differential compaction of underlying sedimentary strata and recent tectonic activity of the buried Apenninic thrust systems are the most likely drivers of strata deformation. Based on isochore maps, we document that higher sedimentation rates in topographically depressed areas compensated, in part at least, the ongoing deformation, keeping unaltered the topographic gradient and the depositional environment. This study demonstrates that peat‐based correlation and mapping can shed lights on the mechanisms of strata accumulation and deformation in deltaic settings, constituting a robust basis for reconstructing delta evolution.
Ride‐hailing's impact on Canadian cities: Now let's consider the long game
Authors: Young Mischa
Published: January 2019

Key Messages

It remains unclear whether the arrival of ride‐hailing is detrimental to congestion.

Despite being slightly cheaper than taxis, ride‐hailing services remain significantly more expensive than transit and provide mobility only to those who can afford them.

The regulatory framework for ride‐hailing should resemble that of the taxi industry, but should also be supplemented by concessions to encourage ride‐hailing companies to explore sustainable endeavours.
Contribution of FoxP3+ Tfr cells to overall human blood CXCR5+ T cells
Authors: Fonseca V R , Graca L
Published: January 2019

The identification that T follicular helper (Tfh) cells is critical for the emergence of germinal centre responses prompted the study of CXCR5-expressing CD4+ T cell subsets in autoimmunity. However, circulating CXCR5-expressing T cells are heterogeneous by containing Forkhead box protein 3 (FoxP3)+ T follicular regulatory (Tfr) cells in addition to bona fide Tfh cells. Such heterogeneity may hamper the analysis of the contribution of specific follicular T cell subsets for autoimmune pathogenesis. Therefore, separate assessment of Tfh and Tfr populations offer greater opportunities for stratification of autoimmune patients, such as Sjögren’s syndrome patients.
Left ventricular metabolic remodeling and accompanied dysfunction in type 2 diabetic patients: A 3D speckle tracking analysis
Authors: Wang Qingqing , Tan Kaibin , Xia Hongmei , Gao Yunhua
Published: January 2019

Purposes

The purposes of our study were to determine the risk factors related to metabolic left ventricular remodeling (LVR) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients and to assess the LV function with different geometry in such population.

Methods

Seventy‐eight T2DM patients with normal 2D‐LVEF (≥55%) were enrolled and divided into two groups with LV normal geometry (LVN) and with LV remodeling (LVR). The control group was composed of forty age‐ and sex‐matched healthy individuals with LVN. A multifactor logistic regression was used to determine the risk factors for LVR, and their diagnostic values were evaluated using the area under the ROC curves (AUC). Three‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (3DSTE) was used to measure LV global longitudinal strain (GLS), global circumferential strain (GCS), global area strain (GAS), and global radial strain (GRS).

Results

Fasting plasma glucose (FPG), hyperlipidemia, and BMI were independently associated with LVR in T2DM patients, and the AUC values were 0.699, 0.697, and 0.732, respectively. The T2DM patients with LVN showed significantly lower GLS than the controls (P < 0.05), whereas the T2DM patients with LVR showed significantly lower GLS, GCS, GAS, and GRS than the T2DM patients with LVN (all P < 0.01). Additionally, GLS, GAS, and GRS values decreased significantly in the T2DM patients with LV hypertrophy than in those with LV concentric remodeling (all P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The routine echocardiography and 3DSTE could be used in combining way to detect the metabolic LV remodeling and accompanied dysfunction in T2DM patients.
LOSING BY LESS? IMPORT COMPETITION, UNEMPLOYMENT INSURANCE GENEROSITY, AND CRIME
Authors: Beach Brian , Lopresti John
Published: January 2019

Increased import competition from China has brought about a host of negative consequences for the most exposed industries and labor markets. Do social programs attenuate these harmful effects? We examine changes in import competition between 1990 and 2007, taking crime as our outcome of interest and unemployment insurance as our mitigating program. We find strong evidence that counties with access to more generous unemployment insurance experienced relatively smaller increases in trade‐induced property crime. This highlights a new and important positive externality of unemployment insurance. (JEL H00, R10)
Student and faculty perspectives of a faculty‐student mentoring programme in a dental school
Authors: Mascarenhas Faye , Townsend Janice , Caballero Paul , Yu Qingzhao , Fidel Jr Paul L.
Published: January 2019

Purpose/Objectives

In addition to an established peer mentoring programme, the Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, School of Dentistry introduced a faculty‐student mentoring programme, the first‐year dental student (D1)‐Faculty Guide Program, in 2013. The intent of the D1‐Guide Program was to provide faculty mentorship for D1 students. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of the programme and identify areas for improvement.

Methods

Faculty members, D2 and D3 students were surveyed regarding their experiences and perceptions of the D1‐Guide Program with a seven question and 12 question survey, respectively, via Survey Monkey® and data were analysed.

Results

The response rate for the students and faculty was 61% and 64%, respectively. The majority of faculty (92%) felt comfortable serving as a guide to the D1 students with 79% of those surveyed having served as a guide for 3 or 4 years. The majority of students (81%) felt that the D1‐Guide Program provided mentoring that was not redundant to existing peer mentoring and valuable to their acclimation to dental school.

Conclusions

Despite adding additional duties for faculty and students, the D1‐Guide Program was considered valuable during the student’s first year of dental school with encouragement to continue the programme. The programme helped establish a student‐faculty rapport beyond the boundaries of the classroom.
Circadian regulation of membrane physiology in neural oscillators throughout the brain
Authors: Paul Jodi R. , Davis Jennifer A. , Goode Lacy K. , Becker Bryan K. , Fusilier Allison , Meador‐Woodruff Aidan , Gamble Karen L.
Published: January 2019

Twenty‐four‐hour rhythmicity in physiology and behavior are driven by changes in neurophysiological activity that vary across the light–dark and rest‐activity cycle. Although this neural code is most prominent in neurons of the primary circadian pacemaker in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the hypothalamus, there are many other regions in the brain where region‐specific function and behavioral rhythmicity may be encoded by changes in electrical properties of those neurons. In this review, we explore the existing evidence for molecular clocks and/or neurophysiological rhythms (i.e., 24 hr) in brain regions outside the SCN. In addition, we highlight the brain regions that are ripe for future investigation into the critical role of circadian rhythmicity for local oscillators. For example, the cerebellum expresses rhythmicity in over 2,000 gene transcripts, and yet we know very little about how circadian regulation drives 24‐hr changes in the neural coding responsible for motor coordination. Finally, we conclude with a discussion of how our understanding of circadian regulation of electrical properties may yield insight into disease mechanisms which may lead to novel chronotherapeutic strategies in the future.
Pharmacokinetic effects of capsaicin on vinblastine in rats mediated by CYP3A and Mrp2
Authors: Zhai Xuejia , Feng Yiming , Liu Jun , Li Jie , Zong Yan , Tuo Zhan , Gao Shenrong , Lv Yi
Published: January 2019

Capsaicin (trans‐8‐methyl‐N‐vanillyl‐6‐nonenamide, CAP) is an important ingredient in spicy foods consumed throughout the world. Vinblastine (VBL) is a naturally occurring alkaloid prescribed to cancer patients. Many cancer patients treated with VBL were taking CAP at the same time. This study attempted to investigate the effect of CAP on the pharmacokinetics of VBL, which is the substrate of CYP3A, P‐gp, and Mrp2. CAP, cyclosporine (CsA) or olive oil was given to rats for seven consecutive days, and on the seventh day, VBL (1.3 mg/kg) was administered intravenously. CsA was used as a CYP3A1/2 and transporter inhibitor, and olive oil was used as a vehicle. The results showed that pretreatment of rats with CAP (3.0 mg/kg) for seven consecutive days resulted in an increase in the AUC0–t of VBL of about 29.8% (P < 0.05) compared with the control group. Moreover, CAP decreased the CL of VBL to 75.5% (P < 0.05). At this time, CYP3A1/2 and Mrp2/Abcc2 in the liver was decreased at the mRNA and protein levels. These results demonstrate that chronic ingestion of CAP will increase systemic exposure and reduce clearance of VBL in rats. The food–drug interaction between CAP and VBL appears to be due to modulation of CYP3A1/2 and Mpr2 expression by CAP.
Molecular insights into the mechanism of 4‐hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase inhibition: enzyme kinetics, X‐ray crystallography and computational simulations
Authors: Lin Hong‐Yan , Yang Jing‐Fang , Wang Da‐Wei , Hao Ge‐Fei , Dong Jiang‐Qing , Wang Yu‐Xia , Yang Wen‐Chao , Wu Jia‐Wei , Zhan Chang‐Guo , Yang Guang‐Fu
Published: January 2019

Slow‐binding inhibitors with long residence time on the target often display superior efficacy in vivo. Rationally designing inhibitors with low off‐target rates is restricted by a limited understanding of the structural basis of slow‐binding inhibition kinetics in enzyme–drug interactions. 4‐Hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase (HPPD) is an important target for drug and herbicide development. Although the time‐dependent behavior of HPPD inhibitors has been studied for decades, its structural basis and mechanism remain unclear. Herein, we report a detailed experimental and computational study that explores structures for illustrating the slow‐binding inhibition kinetics of HPPD. We observed the conformational change of Phe428 at the C‐terminal α‐helix in the inhibitor‐bound structures and further identified that the inhibition kinetics of drugs are related to steric hindrance of Phe428. These detailed structural and mechanistic insights illustrate that steric hindrance is highly associated with the time‐dependent behavior of HPPD inhibitors. These findings may enable rational design of new potent HPPD‐targeted drugs or herbicides with longer target residence time and improved properties.

Database

Structure data are available in the PDB under the accession numbers 5CTO (released), 5DHW (released), and 5YWG (released).
Specific genes related to nucleopolyhedrovirus in Bombyx mori susceptible and near‐isogenic resistant strains through comparative transcriptome analysis
Authors: Chen T.‐t. , Tan L.‐r. , Hu N. , Dong Z.‐q. , Hu Z.‐g. , Qin Q. , Long J.‐q. , Chen P. , Xu A.‐y. , Pan M.‐h. , Lu C.
Published: January 2019

Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus (BmNPV) is one of the primary pathogens that causes severe economic losses to sericulture. Comparative transcriptomics analysis has been widely applied to explore the antiviral mechanism in resistant strains. Here, to identify genes involved in BmNPV infection, we identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and performed weighted gene co‐expression network analysis (WGCNA) between two Bombyx mori strains: strain 871 (susceptible to BmNPV infection) and the near‐isogenic strain 871C (resistant to BmNPV). Our results showed that 400 genes were associated with resistance in strain 871C, and 76 genes were related to susceptibility in strain 871. In addition, the correlation analysis of DEGs and WGCNA showed that 40 genes related to resistance were highly expressed in the resistant strain. Among them, gene BGIBMGA004291 was the most noticeable. We further identified the effect of gene BGIBMGA004291, which encoded a multiprotein bridge factor 2 (MBF2) family member (MBF2‐10), on viral infection in cells. Our data suggested that MBF2‐10 inhibited viral infection. Taken together, this study showed specific module trait correlations related to viral infection in strains 871 and 871C, and we identified a resistance‐related gene. These findings suggested promising candidate genes with antiviral activity, aiding in the analysis of the antiviral molecular mechanisms in resistant strains.
Being a dad to a child with Down’s syndrome: Overcoming the challenges to adjustment
Authors: Ridding Anna , Williams James
Published: January 2019

Background

Historically, research exploring the impact of having a child with an Intellectual Disability (ID), has focussed exclusively on mothers. The present study aimed to investigate fathers’ experiences of parenting a child with Down's syndrome (DS), their contributions, influences on family functioning and inclusion in their child's support provision.

Method

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 15 fathers. Interviews were analysed using Grounded Theory (GT).

Results

Fathers’ adjustment appeared to be on a fluid trajectory with three key categories influencing this: “Accommodating the Child,” “Adapting the Parental/Spousal Role” and “Adapting Society.”

Conclusions

The accounts uncovered fathers’ adjustment trajectory to parenting a child with DS, concluding that despite practical and emotional challenges, fathers employed strategies to achieve positive adjustment. Fathers identified the need for services to recognize their role and involve them in their child's support provision. Implications for clinical practice and future research are discussed.
Repairing violations of trustworthiness in negotiation
Authors: Druckman Daniel , Lewicki Roy J. , Doyle Sarah P.
Published: January 2019

There has been an ongoing debate in the research literature on violations of trustworthiness and the effectiveness of various forms of repair. In this article, three studies compare the effectiveness of several variables hypothesized to repair perceived trustworthiness in a negotiation context: (a) the use of words (accounts or apologies) versus deeds (compensation for the costs of violation), separately and in combination; (b) whether words or deeds pointed to the past or to the future; (c) the effect of an active or passive third‐party monitor of the negotiation, and (d) the type of trustworthiness (competence versus integrity) that was violated. Results show support for the repair effects for deeds over words, and that a focus on the past violation (through either words or deeds) is more effective than looking toward the future. Deeds, rather than words, also accounts for the strong impact of the combination of the two courses of action. In addition, results show that an active third‐party intervention has a stronger impact on repair than a passive intervention. Implications for theory and practice are discussed along with suggestions for future research.
Methyl aminolevulinate daylight photodynamic therapy applied at home for non‐hyperkeratotic actinic keratosis of the face or scalp: an open, interventional study conducted in Germany
Authors: Karrer S. , Aschoff R.A.G. , Dominicus R. , Krähn‐Senftleben G. , Gauglitz G.G. , Zarzour A. , Kerrouche N. , Chavda R. , Szeimies R.‐M.
Published: January 2019

Background

The efficacy and safety of methyl aminolevulinate daylight photodynamic therapy (MAL DL‐PDT) for actinic keratosis (AK) treatment has previously been demonstrated in several studies.

Objective

To evaluate patient‐reported outcomes, effectiveness and tolerability of patient self‐applied MAL DL‐PDT.

Patients and methods

An open study was conducted in Germany in patients with thin or non‐hyperkeratotic and non‐pigmented AK. At baseline, the investigator delimited the target anatomical area and skin preparation was discretionary. On day 1, the patient performed MAL DL‐PDT at home, in accordance with instructions (after applying sunscreen and skin preparation by abrasive pad). Patient questionnaires were completed on day 1 and 3 months post‐treatment. Effectiveness was assessed by investigator at 3 months. Pain and adverse events (AE) were recorded.

Results

Patients (n = 50) were mostly elderly (mean age: 73.4 years) men (86%). After treatment on day 1, 94% of patients were overall satisfied or very satisfied with the treatment and 98% found the instructions convenient. At 3 months, most patients were satisfied or very satisfied with treatment effectiveness (88%) and aspect of their skin (80%). At 3 months, 62% of overall lesions were completely clear. The main related AEs were mild and expected (erythema, procedural pain and skin burning sensation).

Conclusions

Patient self‐application of MAL DL‐PDT resulted in high levels of patient satisfaction, effectiveness and tolerability.
Focality advantage in platform competition
Authors: Halaburda Hanna , Yehezkel Yaron
Published: January 2019

We consider a methodology for studying how beliefs shape platform competition based on the notion of a partial focality. The concept of focality is useful for modeling platform competition when the presence of network effects results in multiple equilibria for a certain set of prices. We illustrate how to implement this methodology in both static and dynamic competition between platforms that differ in their basic quality. The initial degree of focality affects the ability of the high‐quality platform to win the market. Yet, dynamic considerations may have a positive or negative effect on this ability.
Efficacy of progesterone on threatened miscarriage: Difference in drug types
Authors: Wang Xiao‐xue , Luo Qing , Bai Wen‐pei
Published: January 2019

Aim

To investigate whether treatment with progesterone would decrease the incidence of miscarriage in women who faced threatened miscarriage.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials (RCT) were identified by searching PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and Web of Science. Trials were included if they compared progesterone with placebo, no treatment or any other treatment given in an effort to treat threatened miscarriage. Pregnant prophylaxis drugs were not included without strict progesterone type, language and progesterone management. The primary outcome was the incidence of miscarriage. The summary measures were reported as relative risk (RR) with 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

Eight RCT including 845 women who faced threatened miscarriage were analyzed. Pooled data from the eight trials showed that women with threatened miscarriage who were randomized to the progesterone group had a lower risk of threatened miscarriage (RR = 0.64, 95% CI 0.48–0.85). Dydrogesterone was shown to have a lower risk of miscarriage (RR = 0.49, 95% CI 0.33–0.75) than natural progesterone (RR = 0.69, 95% CI 0.40–1.19). Oral management was demonstrated to have a lower risk of miscarriage (RR = 0.55, 95% CI 0.38–0.79) compared with vaginal administration (RR = 0.58, 95% CI 0.28–1.21).

Conclusion

Our findings show that progesterone agents are effective in reducing the incidence of miscarriage in threatened miscarriage. Dydrogesterone, but not natural progesterone, was associated with a lower risk of miscarriage. Given the limitations of the studies included in our meta‐analysis, it is difficult to recommend route and dose of progesterone therapy. Further head‐to‐head trials of gestational weeks and long‐time follow‐up are required.
Ursolic acid promotes the apoptosis of cervical cancer cells by regulating endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Guo Jin‐Ling , Han Teng , Bao Le , Li Xiao‐Mei , Ma Jing‐Quan , Tang Li‐Ping
Published: January 2019

Aim

Ursolic acid is a triterpenoid common in plants and exhibits anti‐carcinogenic activity. This study aimed to reveal the role of endoplasmic reticulum stress in cervical cancer cell apoptosis promoted by ursolic acid.

Methods

HeLa cells were treated with ursolic acid or/and 4‐phenylbutyric acid. The viability and apoptosis of HeLa cells were evaluated by MTT assay and flow cytometry, respectively.

Results

Ursolic acid decreased HeLa cell viability in a time‐ and dose‐ dependent manner, and induced HeLa cell apoptosis in a dose‐dependent manner. Moreover, ursolic acid increased the expression of C/EBP homologous protein and glucose‐regulated protein 78 at protein levels, while 4‐phenylbutyric acid antagonized the apoptosis of HeLa cells induced by ursolic acid.

Conclusion

Ursolic acid inhibits the viability and promotes the apoptosis of HeLa cells. Endoplasmic reticulum stress may mediate the apoptosis of cervical cancer cells stimulated by ursolic acid.