bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of seed size, phenology, oogenesis and host distribution in the specificity and genetic structure of seed weevils (Curculio spp.) in mixed forests
Authors: ARIAS‐LECLAIRE Harold , BONAL Raúl , GARCÍA‐LÓPEZ Daniel , ESPELTA Josep Maria
Published: November 2017

Synchrony between seed growth and oogenesis is suggested to largely shape trophic breadth of seed‐feeding insects and ultimately to contribute to their co‐existence by means of resource partitioning or in the time when infestation occurs. Here we investigated: (i) the role of seed phenology and sexual maturation of females in the host specificity of seed‐feeding weevils (Curculio spp.) predating in hazel and oak mixed forests; and (ii) the consequences that trophic breadth and host distribution have in the genetic structure of the weevil populations. DNA analyses were used to establish unequivocally host specificity and to determine the population genetic structure. We identified 4 species with different specificity, namely Curculio nucum females matured earlier and infested a unique host (hazelnuts, Corylus avellana) while 3 species (Curculio venosus, Curculio glandium and Curculio elephas) predated upon the acorns of the 2 oaks (Quercus ilex and Quercus pubescens). The high specificity of C. nucum coupled with a more discontinuous distribution of hazel trees resulted in a significant genetic structure among sites. In addition, the presence of an excess of local rare haplotypes indicated that C. nucum populations went through genetic expansion after recent bottlenecks. Conversely, these effects were not observed in the more generalist Curculio glandium predating upon oaks. Ultimately, co‐existence of weevil species in this multi‐host‐parasite system is influenced by both resource and time partitioning. To what extent the restriction in gene flow among C. nucum populations may have negative consequences for their persistence in a time of increasing disturbances (e.g. drought in Mediterranean areas) deserves further research.
The Joint Effect of Audit Quality and Legal Regimes on the Use of Real Earnings Management: International Evidence
Authors: Choi Ahrum , Choi Jong‐Hag , Sohn Byungcherl Charlie
Published: November 2017

This study investigates whether and how a firm's real earnings management (REM) is influenced by the strength of a country's legal regime and the presence of a Big 4 auditor. In a cross‐country examination using data from 22 countries, we find that REM increases in countries with stronger legal regimes as firms switch from accrual‐based earnings management (AEM) to REM. The presence of a Big 4 auditor reduces REM (as well as AEM) and attenuates the positive relation between legal regime strength and REM. Our results suggest that higher‐quality auditors limit client firms’ use of REM, especially in countries with a strong legal regime.
Conflicting Transfer Pricing Incentives and the Role of Coordination
Authors: Blouin Jennifer L. , Robinson Leslie A. , Seidman Jeri K.
Published: November 2017

Our study evaluates the role of coordination, at both the government and the firm level, on the transfer prices set by U.S. multinational corporations (MNCs) when income taxes and duties cannot be jointly minimized with a single transfer price. We find that either the presence of a coordinated income tax and customs enforcement regime or coordination between the income tax and customs functions alters transfer prices for these firms. Our analyses have implications for both firms and taxing authorities. Specifically, our findings suggest that MNCs might decrease their aggregate tax burdens by increasing coordination within the firm or that governments might increase their aggregate revenues by improving coordinating enforcement across taxing authorities. Our study is novel in that we document, in a specific setting, how coordination influences MNCs’ tax reporting behavior.
Analyst earnings forecast precision and local advantage: evidence from American depositary receipt firms
Authors: Comiran Fernando , Siriviriyakul Subprasiri
Published: November 2017

Prior research has documented a finding that local analysts provide more accurate earnings forecasts than nonlocal analysts in many settings. However, little is known about local and nonlocal analysts’ relative earnings forecast abilities for ADR stocks. In this study, we find that the local advantage disappears for ADR stocks and that nonlocal analysts in fact outperform local ones in this case. We investigate the source of this ‘local disadvantage’ and find evidence against hypotheses based on accounting standards and exchange rates. We document that the local advantage decreases with increased investor interest in foreign firms, consistent with our nonlocal investors’ interest hypothesis.
N‐Methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor co‐agonist availability affects behavioral and neurochemical responses to cocaine: insights into comorbid schizophrenia and substance abuse
Authors: Puhl Matthew D. , Desai Rajeev I. , Takagi Shunsuke , Presti Kendall T. , Doyle Michelle R. , Donahue Rachel J. , Landino Samantha M. , Bergman Jack , Carlezon William A. , Coyle Joseph T.
Published: November 2017

Both schizophrenia (SZ) and substance abuse (SA) exhibit significant heritability. Moreover, N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptors (NMDARs) have been implicated in the pathophysiology of both SZ and SA. We hypothesize that the high prevalence of comorbid SA in SZ is due to dysfunction of NMDARs caused by shared risk genes. We used transgenic mice with a null mutation of the gene encoding serine racemase (SR), the enzyme that synthesizes the NMDAR co‐agonist d‐serine and an established risk gene for SZ, to recreate the pathology of SZ. We determined the effect of NMDAR hypofunction resulting from the absence of d‐serine on motivated behavior by using intracranial self‐stimulation and neurotransmitter release in the nucleus accumbens by using in vivo microdialysis. Compared with wild‐type mice, SR−/− mice exhibited similar baseline intracranial self‐stimulation thresholds but were less sensitive to the threshold‐lowering (rewarding) and the performance‐elevating (stimulant) effects of cocaine. While basal dopamine (DA) and glutamate release were elevated in the nucleus accumbens of SR−/− mice, cocaine‐induced increases in DA and glutamate release were blunted. γ‐Amino‐butyric acid efflux was unaffected in the SR−/− mice. Together, these findings suggest that the impaired NMDAR function and a consequent decrease in sensitivity to cocaine effects on behavior are mediated by blunted DA and glutamate responses normally triggered by the drug. Projected to humans, NMDAR hypofunction due to mutations in SR or other genes impacting glutamatergic function in SZ may render abused substances less potent and effective, thus requiring higher doses to achieve a hedonic response, resulting in elevated drug exposure and increased dependence/addiction.
Lifetime marijuana use and subclinical atherosclerosis: the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study
Authors: Auer Reto , Sidney Stephen , Goff David , Vittinghoff Eric , Pletcher Mark J. , Allen Norrina B. , Reis Jared P. , Lewis Cora E. , Carr Jeffrey , Rana Jamal S.
Published: November 2017

Background and aims

Unlike tobacco, the effect of marijuana smoke on subclinical atherosclerosis, a surrogate measure for cardiovascular disease, is not known. This study aimed to determine the association between lifetime exposure to marijuana and measures of subclinical atherosclerosis in mid‐life.

Design, setting and participants

We used data from the US‐based Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) study, a cohort of black and white men and women aged 18–30 years at baseline in 1985–86, with up to seven follow‐up examinations over 25 years. A total of 3498 participants in the CARDIA study were included in this study.

Measurements

Cumulative years of exposure to marijuana (expressed in ‘marijuana‐years’, with 1 marijuana‐year equivalent to 365 days of use) using repeated assessments every 2–5 years for 25 years. Abdominal artery calcium (AAC) and coronary artery calcium (CAC) scores were measured by computed tomography at year 25 examination.

Results

Among 3117 participants with AAC and CAC measurements, 2627 (84%) reported past marijuana use and 1536 (49%) past daily tobacco smoking. Compared with tobacco smokers, 46% of whom reported 10 or more pack‐years of use, only 12% of marijuana users reported 5 or more marijuana‐years of use and only 6% reported having used marijuana daily. We found a significant interaction between never and ever tobacco users on the association between cumulative marijuana use and AAC (P = 0.05). Among those who never smoked tobacco, cumulative marijuana‐years were not associated with AAC or CAC in models adjusted for demographics, cardiovascular risk factors, licit and illicit drug exposure and depression symptoms. However, among ever tobacco smokers, marijuana exposure was associated with AAC and CAC. At 5 marijuana‐years of exposure, using AAC = 0 and CAC = 0 as a reference group, the odds ratio (OR) was 1.97 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.21–3.21, P = 0.007] for AAC > 0/CAC = 0 and 1.83 (95% CI = 1.02–3.31, P = 0.04) for CAC > 0), regardless of AAC. Tobacco smoking was associated strongly with both AAC and CAC.

Conclusion

Marijuana use appears to be associated with subclinical atherosclerosis, but only among ever tobacco users.
Animal models used in furcation perforation studies: A systematic review and comprehensive synthesis of model characteristics
Authors: Cardoso Miguel , Catré Dora , Noites Rita , Paulo Manuel , Viegas Carlos
Published: November 2017

In order to systematise furcation perforation (FP) experimental animal models described in the literature and to determine whether there is evidence that a model is superior to others, MEDLINE/PubMed, SciELO and Cochrane Library were searched to find studies which used animal models of FP. Data were gathered concerning model characteristics, chosen groups, sample numbers, type of outcomes, journal and main area studied. Twenty‐five articles were included in this systematic review, four conducted in rodent models, three in non‐human primates and 18 in dogs. Medians were six animals and 34 teeth per study; 10 teeth per test group and, when performed, six teeth per control group. Twenty‐four studies investigated the use of materials for FP repair; eight also tested adjuvant materials/substances. Although there is no model which can be described as ideal and superior than others for FP studies, dogs appear to possess the most suitable model characteristics.
The effect of seeding densities on old cultivated fields in Marakele National Park, Thabazimbi, South Africa
Authors: van Staden Piet J. , Bredenkamp George J. , Bezuidenhout Hugo , Brown Leslie R.
Published: November 2017

Large areas of the bushveld bioregion are converted from natural rangeland to cultivated fields for economic purposes. Conversion of grasslands to agricultural land alters the vegetation structure, plant species composition and ecological functioning. The aim of this paper was to evaluate the effectiveness of different seeding densities to enhance the restoration of old cultivated fields in Marakele National Park. Before these areas along the Motlhabatsi River were incorporated into the Park they were used for cultivation of crops. In an attempt to restore these areas to an improved condition, this pilot study was undertaken to determine best practice. One study area comprising two experimental sites and one control site were selected. A seed mixture consisting of natural grass species to the area was selected and sown at two different seed densities. The sites were monitored for a 2‐year period for species diversity and composition. Data were analysed using the analysis of variance (ANOVA), while species diversity was calculated for the different experimental sites using the Shannon–Wiener index. Limited differences were observed between the two seeding densities. The results indicate that seeding degraded grasslands in these bushveld areas enhance the diversity and evenness of the degraded land.
Analysis of household's energy consumption, forest degradation and plantation requirements in Eastern Tigray, Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Teka Kassa , Welday Yemane , Haftu Mulu
Published: November 2017

This study examines the link between household's energy consumption, forest degradation and plantation requirements in Eastern Tigray. Data on household's fuelwood, cow‐dung, kerosene and electricity consumption in the study sites were collected from 557 urban and 114 rural households. Deforestation rate was estimated following FAO and Woody Biomass Inventory Strategy Planning Project (WBISPP's) conversion factors. The study showed that household's fuelwood consumption in urban areas (mean = 2.5 kg/day) was about 52% lower as compared to the rural villages (mean = 3.8 kg/day). The estimated area abandoned annually in the vicinity of urban areas as the result of urban fuelwood consumption varies from 217 ha around Maichew town to 12047 ha around Mekelle City. The estimated area abandoned in rural areas annually as the result of tree cutting for fuelwood also varies from 6.5 ha around Sinkata to 127 ha around Dergajen village. It is therefore recommended that an estimated annual tree plantation of area ranging from 286 ha around Maichew town to 21,684 ha around Mekelle city is required. Moreover, an estimated annual tree plantation of area ranging from 16 ha around Sinkata village to 229 ha around the Dergajen village is required taking the existing population into account.
The impact of land use and land cover change on biodiversity within and adjacent to Kibasira Swamp in Kilombero Valley, Tanzania
Authors: Seki Hamidu A. , Shirima Deo D. , Courtney Mustaphi Colin J. , Marchant Rob , Munishi Pantaleo K. T.
Published: November 2017

Wetlands are crucial ecosystems with multiple values and functions to a range of different stakeholders. The future of wetlands depends both on the legacy of the past and how they are currently used. Using 48 vegetation survey plots (0.08 ha) combined with Landsat 5 and 7 TM imagery, we assessed the influence of long‐term (1990–2011) land use and land cover change on the biodiversity of the Kibasira Swamp. Information on perceptions of adjacent communities on historical changes and drivers for the changes were also collected. Results showed an increase in the area covered by open water by 1% and forest by 4% between 1990 and 1998 whilst Cyperus papyrus L and cultivated land area decreased by 8% and 3%, respectively on the same period. Between 1998 and 2011, there was a decrease in areas covered by water by 35% and forest by 9% whereas C. papyrus L increased by 40% and cultivated land increased by 8%. These changes have affected the biodiversity of the swamp and adjacent to it as numbers of mammals have declined. However, the Swamp still provides extensive habitat for plants and bird species despite the ongoing human pressure. Interventions may be necessary to maintain biodiversity in Kibasira Swamp to ensure sustainable ecosystem services.
Composition of a molluscan assemblage associated with macrophytes in Menzel Jemil (Bizerte lagoon, SW Mediterranean Sea)
Authors: Zaabar Wahiba , Zakhama‐Sraieb Rym , Charfi‐Cheikhrouha Faouzia , Achouri Mohamed Sghaïer
Published: November 2017

The molluscan species composition and diversity associated with macrophytes was studied throughout 1 year at Menzel Jemil station (Bizerte lagoon, north‐west of Tunisia). A total of 7,539 individuals belonging to 13 species were collected. The molluscan assemblage was mainly composed of gastropods (98.12%, nine species), followed by bivalves (1.88%, four species). Hydrobia acuta ranked first with 49.97% of total abundance, followed by Bittium reticulatum (17.97%), Tritia mutabilis (11.38%), Haminoea navicula (8.98%), Phorcus articulatus (5.17%) and Cerithium vulgatum (3.94%). The large number of juvenile molluscs collected confirms the importance of macroalgae and seagrass for mollusc recruitment. Significant temporal variations of species richness, density and diversity indices of the mollusc assemblage have been observed during the year. Multivariate analyses applied to our data revealed significant relationships between the macrophyte composition and associated molluscan assemblage. The BIOENV analysis indicated that water temperature, phosphates concentration and macrophyte biomass were environmental variables most closely associated with the temporal variation of molluscan assemblage.
Is high species richness at intermediate disturbance level valuable for phylogenetic conservation? A test on bird species in South‐East Botswana
Authors: Yessoufou Kowiyou , Letshwiti Kabelo D.
Published: November 2017

The intermediate disturbance hypothesis (IDH) is one of the most debated theories in ecology. However, even when evidence is provided to support the hypothesis, its relevance for phylogenetic conservation has rarely been tested. Here, we investigated this question on birds in the South‐East district of Botswana along a disturbance gradient across three types of landscapes. We first reconstructed the phylogeny for all species recorded. Next, we assessed the relationship between dissimilarity measures and habitat types using the permutational MANOVA. Finally, we tested the IDH by fitting a generalized linear mixed effect model to account for errors due to spatial pseudo‐replications of our collection design. We found that, although species richness and phylogenetic diversity (PD) follow the prediction of the IDH, the evolutionary component of PD (i.e. PSV, phylogenetic species variability) contributes little to the prediction, suggesting that the correlation between PD and disturbance level is driven by the richness component of PD (i.e. PSR, phylogenetic species richness). However, the increased richness at the intermediate disturbance level does not result in phylogenetically diverse bird communities, indicating that the IDH contributes little to phylogenetic diversity. Our study adds to the body of literature questioning the relevance of IDH in ecology.
Pelvic examination may be meaningfully taught to novices and be used to predict operating times for laparoscopic excision of endometriosis in one surgical procedure
Authors: Bhatti Mominah , Ketheeswaran Ashradha , Arnold Amy , Nesbitt‐Hawes Erin , Deans Rebecca , Won HaRyun , Abbott Jason
Published: November 2017

Objective

To investigate whether pelvic examination may be meaningfully taught to novice medical students and its accuracy in predicting operating times for laparoscopic excision of endometriosis at a single surgical procedure.

Methods

Women with suspected endometriosis scheduled for laparoscopy underwent pelvic examination to estimate operative time by medical students (novices), trainees, senior clinicians with <10 years surgical experience (experts) and ≥10 years (masters). Examination and intraoperative findings were compared and stage of disease recorded.

Results

There were 138 estimations of operating time at the initial assessment and 251 estimations of operating time prior to surgery. The median surgical duration was 44 min (range 12–398) and increased progressively with revised American Society for Reproductive Medicine disease stage. Clinical predictions exceeded actual operating times by a median of 18 min (range overestimating by 180 min and underestimating by 120 min) with 80% of procedures completed in less time than predicted and none requiring a second procedure. There was no statistical difference in operative time estimations between the groups with students and trainees underestimating surgical duration by a median of two and five minutes, respectively, experts having a median time difference of zero minutes, and masters overestimating by 4.5 min.

Conclusion

Targeted pelvic examining may be taught to novices (medical students) and can be used to predict operating time at one surgical procedure. Less experienced examiners have a tendency to underestimate surgical duration, with masters overestimating surgical time when scheduling laparoscopies for endometriosis, and increasing disease stage is associated with a less precise estimation of surgical duration.
Combination therapy with mifepristone and misoprostol for the management of first trimester miscarriage: Improved success
Authors: Dunford Angela , Fyfe Rina
Published: November 2017

Background

First trimester miscarriage affects 20% of pregnancies. Medical management has a high degree of patient acceptance and does not increase the risk of infection. Mifepristone is an anti‐progesterone shown to improve outcomes when used in conjunction with misoprostol for first trimester abortion. However, there have been conflicting results when it has been added to treatment regimens for miscarriage.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort analysis of women presenting to the Acute Gynaecology Service of our tertiary referral centre for miscarriage management from December 2010 until December 2013. Patients given misoprostol alone were compared to those who received combination treatment with mifepristone and misoprostol. Primary outcome was failure of treatment determined by the need for repeat medical management or surgical curettage. Secondary outcome was need for hospital admission.

Results

A total of 281 women were treated from December 2010 to December 2013: 179 received combined mifepristone and misoprostol and 102 received misoprostol only. The primary outcome was significantly different between the two groups; 73% of women in the mifepristone and misoprostol group required no further treatment compared to only 56% of women in the misoprostol only group (P = 0.012). There were fewer hospital admissions, with 24% in the combined therapy group being admitted compared to 42% in the misoprostol only group (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The addition of mifepristone to medical treatment regimens for first trimester miscarriage significantly decreased the need for repeat medical dosing and surgical curettage. Hospital admissions were also significantly decreased.
Acceptance and transfer to a regional severe respiratory failure and veno‐venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) service: predictors and outcomes
Authors: Gillon S. A. , Rowland K. , Shankar‐Hari M. , Camporota L. , Glover G. W. , Wyncoll D. L. A. , Barrett N. A. , Ioannou N. , Meadows C. I. S.
Published: November 2017

The use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for respiratory failure is high risk and resource intensive. In England, five centres provide this service and patients who are referred have four possible outcomes: declined transfer due to perceived futility; accepted in principle but remain at the referring centre with ongoing surveillance; retrieved using conventional ventilation; or retrieved on extracorporeal support. The decision‐making process leading to these outcomes has not previously been examined. We evaluated referrals to one centre and identified factors associated with each decision outcome. Five hundred and sixty‐four patients were analysed from January 2012 to October 2015. One hundred and fifty‐seven patients were declined; multivariate analysis demonstrated associated factors to be: age (odds ratio (95% confidence interval) 1.05 (1.04–1.07)); immunocompromise (4.95 (2.58–9.67)); lactate (1.11 (1.01–1.22)); duration of ventilation (1.08 (1.04–1.14)); and cardiac failure (3.22 (1.04–10.51)). Factors associated with the decision to retrieve an accepted patient were: plateau pressure (1.05 (1.01–1.10)); ratio of arterial oxygen partial pressure to fractional inspired oxygen (0.89 (0.85–0.93)); partial pressure of carbon dioxide in arterial blood (1.13 (1.03–1.25)); and the absence of non‐pulmonary infection (0.31 (0.15–0.61)). Only pH was independently associated with the decision to transfer on extracorporeal support (0.020 (0.002–0.017)). Six‐month survival in the declined, non‐retrieved, conventionally retrieved and extracorporeal‐retrieved groups was 16.6%, 71.1%, 76.7% and 72.1%, respectively, substantially supporting the decision‐making model. Survival in the accepted group exceeds that reported previously. However, a proportion of those declined do survive and some remotely managed patients die. This suggests the approach does not account for some important survival‐determining factors.
Cuffed vs. uncuffed tracheal tubes in children: a randomised controlled trial comparing leak, tidal volume and complications
Authors: Chambers N. A. , Ramgolam A. , Sommerfield D. , Zhang G. , Ledowski T. , Thurm M. , Lethbridge M. , Hegarty M. , von Ungern‐Sternberg B. S.
Published: November 2017

Cuffed tracheal tubes are increasingly used in paediatric anaesthetic practice. This study compared tidal volume and leakage around cuffed and uncuffed tracheal tubes in children who required standardised mechanical ventilation of their lungs in the operating theatre. Children (0–16 years) undergoing elective surgery requiring tracheal intubation were randomly assigned to receive either a cuffed or an uncuffed tracheal tube. Assessments were made at five different time‐points: during volume‐controlled ventilation 6 ml.kg−1, PEEP 5 cmH2O and during pressure‐controlled ventilation 10 cmH2O / PEEP 5 cmH2O. The pressure‐controlled ventilation measurement time‐points were: just before a standardised recruitment manoeuvre; just after recruitment manoeuvre; 10 min; and 30 min after the recruitment manoeuvre. Problems and complications were recorded. During volume‐controlled ventilation, leakage was significantly less with cuffed tracheal tubes than with uncuffed tracheal tubes; in ml.kg−1, median (IQR [range]) 0.20 (0.13–0.39 [0.04–0.60]) vs. 0.82 (0.58–1.38 [0.24–4.85]), respectively, p < 0.001. With pressure‐controlled ventilation, leakage was less with cuffed tracheal tubes and stayed unchanged over a 30‐min period, whereas with uncuffed tracheal tubes, leakage was higher and increased further over the 30‐min period. Tidal volumes were higher in the cuffed group and increased over time, but in the uncuffed group were lower and decreased over time. Both groups showed an increase in tidal volumes following recruitment manoeuvres. There were more short‐term complications with uncuffed tracheal tubes, but no major complications were recorded in either group at long‐term follow‐up. With standardised ventilator settings, cuffed tracheal tubes produced better ventilation characteristics compared with uncuffed tracheal tubes during general anaesthesia for routine elective surgery.
Experimental Investigation of Left Ventricular Flow Patterns After Percutaneous Edge‐to‐Edge Mitral Valve Repair
Authors: Jeyhani Morteza , Shahriari Shahrokh , Labrosse Michel
Published: November 2017

Mitral valve percutaneous edge‐to‐edge repair (PEtER) is a viable solution in high‐risk patients with severe symptomatic mitral regurgitation. However, the generated double‐orifice configuration poses challenges for the evaluation of the hemodynamic performance of the mitral valve and may alter flow patterns in the left ventricle (LV) during diastole. This in vitro study aims to evaluate the hemodynamic modifications following a simulated PEtER. A custom‐made mitral valve was developed, and two configurations were tested: (i) a single‐orifice valve with mitral regurgitation and (ii) a double‐orifice mitral valve configuration following PEtER. The hemodynamic performance of the valve was evaluated using Doppler echocardiography and catheterization, while the flow patterns in the LV were investigated using particle image velocimetry (PIV). The tests were run at a stroke volume of 65 mL and a heart rate of 70 bpm. PEtER was found to significantly reduce the regurgitant volume (15 vs. 34 mL). There was a good agreement between Doppler and catheter transmitral pressure gradients (peak gradient: 9 vs. 7 mm Hg; mean gradient: 4 vs. 3 mm Hg) as well as an excellent agreement between maximal velocity measured by Doppler and PIV (1.60 vs. 1.58 m/s). Vortex development in the LV during diastole was significantly different after repair. PEtER significantly increased the amplitude of Reynolds and viscous shear stresses, as well as the number of high shear regions in the LV, potentially promoting thromboembolism events.
Children with blindness – major causes, developmental outcomes and implications for habilitation and educational support: a two‐decade, Swedish population‐based study
Authors: de Verdier Kim , Ulla Ek , Löfgren Stefan , Fernell Elisabeth
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The aim was to describe the population of children with congenital or early infancy blindness in Sweden, with regard to causes of blindness and prevalence of neurodevelopmental impairments.

Methods

Medical, psychological and pedagogical records of Swedish children with congenital or early infancy blindness (total blindness or light perception at the most) born in 1988–2008 were analysed regarding year of birth, gender, cause of blindness, gestational age, associated neurological disorders/syndromes, associated neurodevelopmental impairments, cognitive level and type of school placement.

Results

A total of 150 individuals, 80 girls and 70 boys, were identified, corresponding to a prevalence of 7/100 000. Five causes of blindness dominated, constituting 76% of all represented aetiologies: retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), optic nerve hypoplasia (ONH), Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA), optic nerve atrophy (ONA) and microphthalmia/anophthalmia. Nearly three of four children in the study population had at least one additional disability besides blindness; the most common being intellectual disability (ID) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). More than half of the population had more than one additional disability. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) was most common in children withONH,ROP,LCAand microphthalmia/anophthalmia.

Conclusion

In children born within the last decades, isolated blindness is uncommon and the rate of multidisabilities is high. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) seems to be more strongly associated with specific aetiological subgroups. Further development of the support to families and schools should be based on knowledge about the considerable heterogeneity of the population of children with blindness, and the common occurrence of coexisting neurodevelopmental disorders, especiallyIDandASD.
The effect of skin‐to‐skin care on cerebral oxygenation during nasogastric feeding of preterm infants
Authors: Marulli A , Kamlin COF , Dawson JA , Donath SM , Davis PG , Lorenz L
Published: November 2017

Aim

To describe cerebral oxygenation during gavage feeding of preterm infants during incubator and skin‐to‐skin care.

Methods

Further analysis of data from two crossover studies comparing cerebral oxygenation, heart rate and oxygen saturation during skin‐to‐skin care with incubator care. Data were analysed in three epochs; 10 minutes prefeed, during‐feed and 10 minutes postfeed. Measurements from infants fed during incubator care were compared with those obtained during skin‐to‐skin care.

Results

In 39 infants [median (IQR) 27.8 (26.1–30.0) weeks' gestation], there was no difference in cerebral oxygenation between pre‐, during‐ and postfeed. Heart rate increased by three beats per minute postfeed compared with during‐feed. Twenty infants received two gavage feeds, one feed in the incubator and another during skin‐to‐skin care. There was no difference in cerebral oxygenation and heart rate; peripheral oxygen saturation decreased by 3% during feeding whilst skin‐to‐skin care compared with feeding in the incubator.

Conclusion

Cerebral oxygenation remained stable before, during and after gavage feeding in an incubator and during skin‐to‐skin care. The small decrease in oxygen saturation whilst receiving gavage feeding during skin‐to‐skin care is unlikely to be clinically important, providing reassurance that preterm infants maintain physiological stability during skin‐to‐skin care.
Facial micro‐expression states as an indicator for conceptual change in students' understanding of air pressure and boiling points
Authors: Chiu Mei‐Hung , Liaw Hongming Leonard , Yu Yuh‐Ru , Chou Chin‐Cheng
Published: November 2017

Utilizing facial recognition technology, the current study has attempted to predict the likelihood of student conceptual change with decision tree models based on the facial micro‐expression states (FMES) students exhibited when they experience conceptual conflict. While conceptual change through conceptual conflicts in science education is a well‐studied field, there is little research done on conceptual change through conceptual conflict in terms of students' facial expressions. As facial expressions are one of the most direct and immediate responses one can get during instruction and that facial expressions are often representations student's emotions, a link between students' FMES and learning was explored. Facial data was collected from 90 tenth graders. Only data from the 72 students who made incorrect predictions were analyzed in this study. The concept taught was the relationship between boiling point and air pressure. Through facial recognition software analysis and decision tree models, the current study found Surprised, Sad and Disgusted to be key FMES that could be used to predict student conceptual change in a conceptual conflict‐based scenario.
Platelets derived from fresh and cold‐stored whole blood participate in clot formation in rats with acute traumatic coagulopathy
Authors: Wu Xiaowu , Darlington Daniel N. , Montgomery Robbie K. , Liu Bin , Keesee Jeffrey D. , Scherer Michael R. , Benov Avi , Chen Jacob , Cap Andrew P.
Published: November 2017

The in vitro haemostatic functions of fresh whole blood (FWB) are well preserved after cold storage. This study aimed to determine whether platelets derived from FWB and stored whole blood (SWB) contribute to clot formation in tissue injury after transfusion into coagulopathic rats with polytrauma/haemorrhage (T/H). The rats were resuscitated 1 h after trauma with FWB or SWB collected from green fluorescence protein (GFP) transgenic rats. After transfusion, a liver incision was made and the tissue was collected 10 min after injury to identify GFP+ platelets by immunohistochemistry. In comparison to FWB, platelet aggregation to adenosine diphosphate and protease‐activated receptor‐4 was reduced by 35% and 20%, and clotting time was shortened by 25% in SWB. After transfusion, SWB led to a significant increase in platelet activation as measured by an elevation of CD62P and phosphatidylserine expression. The platelets from SWB were in a higher activation state, and showed higher clearance rate and formation of platelet‐leucocyte aggregates than those from FWB after transfusion. Platelets from both FWB and SWB were equivalently incorporated into the clot at the incisional site, as determined by co‐localization of CD61 and GFP. This study suggests that SWB contributes to haemostatic function and is an effective alternative resource to treat trauma patients.
PERK leads a hub dictating pancreatic β cell homoeostasis
Authors: Kefalas George , Larose Louise
Published: November 2017

In humans, the pathogenesis of diabetes is characterised by two major pancreatic β cell defects: a reduction in β cell mass and the failure of β cells to produce enough insulin. Over the past two decades, multiple studies involving cell cultures, animal models and human subjects have established the importance of the protein kinase RNA‐like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK) in the adaptive functional capacity of pancreatic β cells during embryonic development and into adulthood. In this review, we will highlight major findings identifying PERK as a crucial player in β cell physiology and in diabetes.
Interplay between technology and meaning: How music majors reacted?
Authors: Trabucchi Daniel , Pellizzoni Elena , Buganza Tommaso , Verganti Roberto
Published: November 2017

The diffusion of digital technologies enables companies to propose new business, products and services. The business environment is characterized by increasing levels of competition, and customers can choose a growing number of solutions. In this scenario, companies seek new dimension of innovation: the meaning. A vigorous debate has taken place among scholars on the strategies that companies may use to react to external innovations. Until now, the phenomenon has been analysed grounded in the technology‐push literature. The goal of this study is to understand whether these strategies are still valuable even if innovators leverage not only on the technology but also on a hedonic dimension proposing an innovation of meaning. Through a multiple case‐study analysis, based on both primary and secondary sources, we investigate whether the case companies from the music industry also used the strategies described in the literature to cope with technological innovations that leverage both on technology and meaning.
“Telling tales”: Stories, metaphors and tacit knowledge at the fuzzy front‐end of NPD
Authors: Sakellariou Evy , Karantinou Kalipso , Goffin Keith
Published: November 2017

Breakthrough ideas depend upon the generation of new knowledge, which emerge from the conversion of tacit knowledge at the fuzzy front‐end (FFE) of new product development (NPD). The occurrence of stories and metaphors has been strongly linked to tacit knowledge, however, empirical studies that examine how stories and metaphors harness tacit knowledge in the FFE are lacking. In addition, how managers can use stories and metaphors to develop breakthrough product ideas is unclear. To address these gaps, an ‘in‐situ’ empirical case study was conducted in the European subsidiary of a B2C multinational. This study investigated the role, characteristics and interplay of stories and metaphors emerging in discussions between managers and customers in a collaborative design workshop (CDW). Taking a knowledge management theoretical perspective, the data were analyzed using the well‐known SECI framework. The results clearly show that significant new knowledge was created based on the discussions in a CDW and stories and metaphors were important mechanisms for this. Importantly, it was stories related to product usage that triggered breakthrough ideas. The study extends the understanding of how breakthrough ideas emerge; it proposes a tentative conceptual framework; and it provides managers with recommendations of how to use stories and metaphors effectively during the FFE.
The effect of work ethic on employees' individual innovation behavior
Authors: Mussner Tobias , Strobl Andreas , Veider Viktoria , Matzler Kurt
Published: November 2017

The present study examines the previously untested effect of work ethic on individual innovation behavior. These entrenched personal values that may remain unaffected by organizational constitution are suggested to shape a person's inclination to engage in innovative action. Deploying partial least squares (PLS) structural equation modeling (SEM), we show that being self‐reliant and time‐efficient positively influences employees' innovation behavior, while an attitude toward hard work and leisure has a negative impact. Moreover, self‐reliance, leisure orientation, and centrality of work are positively moderated by fair salary, a specific form of relational reward that previously has been identified as an antecedent of motivation. The work at hand thus contributes to extant research by enhancing knowledge about the antecedents of innovative behavior, showing that inherent work‐related values matter. As such, the study demonstrates the importance of considering the linkage of personal differences and motivational factors when examining the complex processes of individual innovation behavior.
Double ambidexterity: How a Telco incumbent used business‐model and technology innovations to successfully respond to three major disruptions
Authors: Kaulio Matti , Thorén Kent , Rohrbeck René
Published: November 2017

We leverage the business model innovation and ambidexterity literature to investigate a contradictory case, the Swedish‐Finnish Telecom operator TeliaSonera. Despite being challenged by three major disruptions, the company not only still exists but also enjoys remarkably good financial performance. Building on extant archival data and interviews, we carefully identify and map 26 organizational responses during 1992–2016. We find that the firm has overcome three critical phases by experimenting and pioneering with portfolios of business models and/or technological innovations. We describe this behaviour as double ambidexterity. We use an in‐depth case study to conceptualize double ambidexterity and discuss its impact on the business's survival and enduring success.
HOXC13 promotes proliferation of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma via repressing transcription ofCASP3
Authors: Luo Jing , Wang Zhongqiu , Huang Jianfeng , Yao Yu , Sun Qi , Wang Jie , Shen Yi , Xu Lin , Ren Binhui
Published: November 2017

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), the dominant subtype of esophageal cancer, is one of the most common digestive tumors worldwide. In this study, we confirmed thatHOXC13, a member of the homeoboxHOXCgene family, was significantly upregulated inESCCand its overexpression was associated with poorer clinical characteristics and worse prognosis. Moreover, knockdown ofHOXC13 inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis ofESCCthrough upregulatingCASP3. ChIPanalysis revealed thatHOXC13 repressed transcription ofCASP3 through directly targeting the promotor region ofCASP3. We also found that miR‐503 downregulatedHOXC13, by directly targeting its 3′UTR, and inhibited proliferation ofESCC. In conclusion, our study demonstrates thatHOXC13, which is directly targeted by miR‐503, promotes proliferation and inhibits apoptosis ofESCCthrough repressing transcription ofCASP3.
Understanding Socioeconomic Differences in Parents’ Speech to Children
Authors: Rowe Meredith L.
Published: November 2017

In this article, I address our understanding of the word gap, or why parents’ talk to children differs by socioeconomic status. The differences in quantity and quality of parents’ input across early childhood predict children's language development and their readiness for school. As a result, a growing number of interventions target parent–child interactions to enhance children's early experiences and promote learning. Understanding the factors that shape parents’ communication with their children is essential and has implications for empirical research as well as interventions to reduce early disparities in children's language development.
Care leavers: A British affair
Authors: Power Luke , Raphael Dennis
Published: November 2017

Individuals in and leaving care within the UK experience numerous dilemmas that include a lack of supportive housing and potential homelessness, lower educational attainment and occupational status, and greater likelihood of moving into poverty. These adverse situations—all of which are interrelated—shape their present and future health status. Models of these processes usually focus on individual behaviours/characteristics, the consolidation of positive identities through the development of supportive networks, and specific social policies germane to this group. Although informative, these models neglect many key contextual factors that shape these outcomes. In this paper, we present a model of care‐leaving that incorporates developments in the political economy of health literature to show how differing welfare state arrangements shape health by mediating the distribution of economic and social resources over the life course for populations in general and for those in and leaving care specifically. The key recommendation suggested by this model is to focus upon developing public policies to address the vulnerable situations care leavers experience associated with skewed income distributions, lack of housing affordability, weak employment standards, and lack of access to higher education typical of liberal welfare states such as the UK.
Comparing the Profitability of a Greenhouse to a Vertical Farm in Quebec
Authors: Eaves James , Eaves Stephen
Published: November 2017

Rapidly growing demand for year‐round fresh food, regardless of the weather or climate, is driving demand for controlled environment agriculture systems. Sales from greenhouses (GHs) are growing at 8.8%, while sales from vertical farms (VFs) are growing at 30%. It is commonly believed in industry circles that a VF cannot economically compete with a GH, due to the high cost of powering artificial lighting. Nonetheless, researchers have yet to analyze the economics underlying a VF, let alone compare the profitability of a VF to that of a GH. This research gap is particularly relevant to Canada, as it is uniquely positioned to be a leader in the VF market. Below, we report the results of a detailed simulation of the profitability of growing lettuce in a VF and in a GH located near Quebec City. Surprisingly, we find that the costs to both equip and run the two facilities are very similar, while the gross profit is slightly higher for the VF.
Dynamics in the global protected‐area estate since 2004
Authors: Lewis Edward , MacSharry Brian , Juffe‐Bignoli Diego , Harris Nyeema , Burrows Georgina , Kingston Naomi , Burgess Neil D.
Published: November 2017

Nations of the world have committed to a number of goals and targets to address global environmental challenges. Protected areas have for centuries been a key strategy in conservation and play a major role in addressing current challenges. The most important tool used to track progress on protected‐area commitments is the World Database on Protected Areas (WDPA). Periodic assessments of the world's protected‐area estate show steady growth over the last 2 decades. However, the current method, which uses the latest version of the WDPA, does not show the true dynamic nature of protected areas over time and does not provide information on sites removed from the WDPA. In reality, this method can only show growth or remain stable. We used GIS tools in an approach to assess protected‐area change over time based on 12 temporally distinct versions of the WDPA that quantify area added and removed from the WDPA annually from 2004 to 2016. Both the narrative of continual growth of protected area and the counter‐narrative of protected area removal were overly simplistic. The former because growth was almost entirely in the marine realm and the latter because some areas removed were reprotected in later years. On average 2.5 million km2 was added to the WDPA annually and 1.1 million km2 was removed. Reasons for the inclusion and removal of protected areas in the WDPA database were in part due to data‐quality issues but also to on‐the‐ground changes. To meet the 17% protected‐area component of Aichi Biodiversity Target 11 by 2020, which stood at 14.7% in 2016, either the rate of protected‐area removal must decrease or the rate of protected‐area designation and addition to the WDPA must increase.