bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proteomic and mitochondrial adaptations to early-life stress are distinct in juveniles and adults
Authors: Eagleson Kathie L. , Villaneuva Miranda , Southern Rebecca M. , Levitt Pat
Published: July 2020

Exposure to early-life stress (ELS) increases risk for poor mental and physical health outcomes that emerge at different stages across the lifespan. Yet, how age interacts with ELS to impact the expression of specific phenotypes remains largely unknown. An established limited-bedding paradigm was used to induce ELS in mouse pups over the early postnatal period. Initial analyses focused on the hippocampus, based on documented sensitivity to ELS in humans and various animal models, and the large body of data reporting anatomical and physiological outcomes in this structure using this ELS paradigm. An unbiased discovery proteomics approach revealed distinct adaptations in the non-nuclear hippocampal proteome in male versus female offspring at two distinct developmental stages: juvenile and adult. Gene ontology and KEGG pathway analyses revealed significant enrichment in proteins associated with mitochondria and the oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) pathway in response to ELS in female hippocampus only. To determine whether the protein adaptations to ELS reflected altered function, mitochondrial respiration (driven through complexes II-IV) and complex I activity were measured in isolated hippocampal mitochondria using a Seahorse X96 Flux analyzer and immunocapture ELISA, respectively. ELS had no effect on basal respiration in either sex at either age. In contrast, ELS increased OXPHOS capacity in juvenile males and females, and reduced OXPHOS capacity in adult females but not adult males. A similar pattern of ELS-induced changes was observed for complex I activity. These data suggest that initial adaptations in juvenile hippocampus due to ELS were not sustained in adults. Mitochondrial adaptations to ELS were also exhibited peripherally by liver. Overall, the temporal distinctions in mitochondrial responses to ELS show that ELS-generated adaptations and outcomes are complex over the lifespan. This may contribute to differences in the timing of appearance of mental and physical disturbances, as well as potential sex differences that influence only select outcomes.
Crystal structures of two dysprosium–aluminium–sodium [3.3.1] metallacryptates that form two-dimensional sheets
Authors: Travis Jordan R. , Van Trieste III Gerard P. , Zeller Matthias , Zaleski Curtis M.
Published: July 2020

The two [3.3.1] metallacryptate complexes, namely, poly[[μ3-acetato-hexakis(μ-N,N-dimethylformamide)bis(N,N-dimethylformamide)bis[salicylhydroximato(2−)]heptakis[salicylhydroximato(3−)]hexaaluminium(III)dysprosium(III)pentasodium(I)] N,N-dimethylformamide tetrasolvate monohydrate], [DyAl6Na5(OAc)(Hshi)2(shi)7(DMF)8]·4DMF·H2O or {[DyAl6Na5(C7H5NO3)2(C7H4NO3)7(C2H3O2)(C3H7NO)8]·4C3H7NO·H2O}
n
, 1, and poly[[di-μ4-acetato-nonakis(μ-N,N-dimethylformamide)octakis(N,N-dimethylformamide)tetrakis[salicylhydroximato(2-)]tetradecakis[salicylhydroximato(3−)]dodecaaluminium(III)didysprosium(III)decasodium(I)] N,N-dimethylformamide 6.335-solvate], [DyAl6Na5(OAc)(Hshi)2(shi)7(DMF)8.5]2·6.335DMF or {[Dy2Al12Na10(C7H5NO3)4(C7H4NO3)14(C2H3O2)2(C3H7NO)17]·6.335C3H7NO}
n
, 2, where shi3− is salicylhydroximate and DMF is N,N-dimethylformamide, both consist of an aluminium-based metallacryptand. In 1 and 2, the metallacryptand encapsulates a dysprosium(III) ion in the central cavity, and the resulting metallacryptates are connected to each other via sodium-DMF linkages to generate a two-dimensional sheet. The metallacryptates of 1 and 2 are the three-dimensional analogues of metallacrowns as the metallacryptates contain a metal–nitrogen–oxygen cyclic repeat unit throughout the complexes. For 1 the building block of the two-dimensional sheet is comprised of only one type of metallacryptate, which is connected to four neighboring metallacryptates via four sodium–DMF linkages. In 2, the building block is a dimeric unit of two metallacryptates. Each dimeric metallacryptate unit is connected to four other dimeric units via six sodium–DMF linkages. The two metallacryptates of each dimeric unit can be considered enantiomers of each other. In both 1 and 2, chirality is imparted to the metallacryptate due to the Λ and Δ propeller configurations of the four octahedral aluminium ions of the metallacryptand shell.
Crystal structure of bis(tetramethylthiourea-κS)bis(thiocyanato-κN)cobalt(II)
Authors: Jochim Aleksej , Radulovic Rastko , Jess Inke , Näther Christian
Published: July 2020

In the course of systematic investigations on the synthesis of Co(NCS)2 coordination compounds with different thiourea ligands, the title compound, [Co(NCS)2(C5H12N2S)2], was obtained. In this compound the CoII cations are coordinated by two crystallographically independent N-bonded thiocyanate anions and two tetramethylthiourea ligands into discrete complexes that are located in general positions and show a strongly distorted tetrahedral geometry. Intermolecular C—H...S hydrogen bonds of different strength can be observed between the discrete complexes, which are connected by pairs of hydrogen bonds into zigzag-like chains that elongate in the b-axis direction. These chains are additionally linked by strong C—H...S hydrogen bonds along the a-axis direction, resulting in the formation of layers that are parallel to the ab plane. There is also one weak intramolecular C—H...S hydrogen bond between two neighbouring thiourea ligands within the complexes. Comparison of the experimental PXRD pattern with that calculated from the single-crystal data prove that a pure phase has been obtained. Thermoanalytical investigations reveal that this compound melts at 364 K and decomposes upon further heating.
Crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of 2,6-diiodo-4-nitrotoluene and 2,4,6-tribromotoluene
Authors: Medjroubi Mohamed Larbi , Boudjada Ali , Hamdouni Noudjoud , Brihi Ouarda , Jeannin Olivier , Meinnel Jean
Published: July 2020

The title compounds, 2,6-diiodo-4-nitrotoluene (DINT, C7H5I2NO2) and 2,4,6-tribromotoluene (TBT, C7H5Br3,), are trisubstituted toluene molecules. Both molecules are planar, only the H atoms of the methyl group, and the nitro group in DINT, deviate significantly from the plane of the benzene ring. In the crystals of both compounds, molecules stack in columns up the shortest crystallographic axis, viz. the a axis in DINT and the b axis in TBT. In the crystal of DINT, molecules are linked via short N—O...I contacts, forming chains along [100]. In TBT, molecules are linked by C—H...Br hydrogen bonds, forming chains along [010]. Hirshfeld surface analysis was used to explore the intermolecular contacts in the crystals of both DINT and TBT.
Advancing research into accounting and the UN Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Bebbington Jan , Unerman Jeffrey
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This paper introduces a special section devoted to accounting scholarship that addresses the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and has three purposes. First, to explore the puzzle of a relative absence of accounting-related scholarship that addresses the SDGs. Second, the papers within the special section are introduced and located within streams of existing research and practice. Third, the paper then suggests framings, approaches and/or conditions under which the authors might see more accounting scholarship in support of advancing the SDGs.

Design/methodology/approach

A structured review of publication patterns in accounting journals over the last five years is undertaken to explore the nature and extent of SDGs-related accounting research. These patterns and foundational accounting literature are used to shape a series of observations and propositions underlying the line of argument developed in the paper.

Findings

Despite the SDGs' prominence in the policy world, and the widespread embrace of their utility for shaping understandings of organizational responsibilities, accounting scholars have been slow to engage in SDGs-motivated research. This gap creates two issues. First, accounting scholarship is less available to the web of knowledge that is being developed about how to enact the ambitions of the SDGs. Second, accounting scholarship is not developing in a way that incorporates SDGs-related challenges facing organizations. This paper suggests ways in which accounting scholarship can overcome these limitations.

Originality/value

Accounting research on the SDGs is in an early stage of development, despite almost five years having elapsed since their formal adoption. This paper highlights avenues for accounting scholars' engagement with the SDGs’ agenda.
The effect of materialism on conspicuous vs inconspicuous luxury consumption: focused on need for uniqueness, self-monitoring and self-construal
Authors: Lee Minyoung , Bae Joonheui , Koo Dong-Mo
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Previous research on luxury consumption has focused on conspicuous consumption; however, research on consumers' self-conceptual mechanism in inconspicuous luxury consumption context is scarce. The present study aims to investigate various self-concepts and their mechanisms for inconspicuous and conspicuous luxury consumption.

Design/methodology/approach

An experiment with 215 participants from online survey website was conducted, and the hypotheses were tested using PROCESS Macro 3.4.

Findings

The study findings are as follows. Materialistic consumers' preference between inconspicuous and conspicuous luxury products is dependent on distinctive self-conceptual mechanism. More specifically, materialistic consumers with independent self-construal prefer inconspicuous luxury brands because of high need for uniqueness, whereas non-materialistic consumers with interdependent self-construal prefer conspicuous luxury products because of high self-monitoring.

Research limitations/implications

The present study uniquely shows conditions (moderated mediation) that the link between need for uniqueness (self-monitoring) and luxury consumption is stronger for those with independent (interdependent) self-construal than for those with interdependent (independent) self-construal. The present results extend and help better understanding of mechanisms and conditions of conspicuous and inconspicuous luxury consumption.

Practical implications

Marketers are advised to design and produce unique vs popular luxury brands depending on consumer's motives and different self-concepts.

Originality/value

This research contributes to extant literature by distinguishing between conspicuous and inconspicuous luxury consumption with two different mechanisms (need for uniqueness and self-monitoring). The present study further demonstrates that the two mechanisms are strongly sustained differently depending on consumer's levels of self-construal.
Alliance portfolio classification. Which portfolio do you have?
Authors: Castiglioni Marco , Galán González José Luis
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to propose and discuss a systematic theoretical classification of alliance portfolios that allows to elucidate and develop the concept.

Design/methodology/approach

The study applies a conceptual approach. A review of the literature was carried out to support the conclusions of this paper.

Findings

The results of the classification identify three types of alliance portfolio, according to the level of management that each of them requires: additive, strategic and managed and strategic. These portfolio typologies are analyzed in an evolutionary perspective.

Practical implications

This article is of interest to managers as it emphasizes the management of the alliance portfolio, highlighting the elements or characteristics that determine the transition from one type of portfolio to another.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the consolidation and reorientation of the extensive research into alliance portfolios and proposes a systematic classification that can help to interpret the results of research and guide future studies.
Coaching the millennial: using a model to empower them personally and professionally
Authors: Sahai Vickram
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The paper aims to provide a coaching framework for the millennial workforce using the Functional Fluency model. The coach empowers the millennials by asking powerful questions on each of the nine modes of the model. This will support them in “being in-charge”, “being self”, and “being with-it” to improve their personal effectiveness in workplace and personal life.

Design/methodology/approach

The framework offers the coach indicative powerful question based on nine modes of Functional Fluency model for coaching the millennials to improve their personal effectiveness in workplace and personal life.

Findings

Coaching the millennials is about making them aware on the way they expend their energies. Based on a millennial’s need for coaching, a coach asks powerful questions from one or more modes and explores their story to elicit realistic options for the next best step.

Research limitations/implications

The coach must possess the appropriate credentials to be a coach and have the knowledge of Functional Fluency. The questions in the framework are indicative of the modes.

Practical implications

The framework provides the coach using the Functional Fluency model to ask powerful “what-how” questions on each of the nine modes to elicit realistic options for way forward with a millennial “coachee”.

Originality/value

The organizations are devising innovative methods on training & development for the millennials. Coaching them with powerful questions on Functional Fluency Model provides the value on improving their interpersonal effectiveness at workplace and in personal life as well.
New methods for projecting a 3D object onto a free-form surface
Authors: Pei Jingyu , Wang Xiaoping , Zhang Leen , Zhou Yu , Qian Jinyuan
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to provide a series of new methods for projecting a three-dimensional (3D) object onto a free-form surface. The projection algorithms presented can be divided into three types, namely, orthogonal, perspective and parallel projection.

Design/methodology/approach

For parametric surfaces, the computing strategy of the algorithm is to obtain an approximate solution by using a geometric algorithm, then improve the accuracy of the approximate solution using the Newton–Raphson iteration. For perspective projection and parallel projection on an implicit surface, the strategy replaces Newton–Raphson iteration by multi-segment tracing. The implementation takes two mesh objects as an example of calculating an image projected onto parametric and implicit surfaces. Moreover, a comparison is made for orthogonal projections with Hu’s and Liu’s methods.

Findings

The results show that the new method can solve the 3D objects projection problem in an effective manner. For orthogonal projection, the time taken by the new method is substantially less than that required for Hu’s method. The new method is also more accurate and faster than Liu’s approach, particularly when the 3D object has a large number of points.

Originality/value

The algorithms presented in this paper can be applied in many industrial applications such as computer aided design, computer graphics and computer vision.
Cost and environmental impacts reduction through building compactness
Authors: Kern Andrea Parisi , Postay Renata , Schneck Eduardo Reuter , Mancio Mauricio , González Marco Aurélio Stumpf , Guerra Georgio
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The central motivation for this study was to examine alternatives against the apartment area reduction as a safe way to reduce construction costs, adopted by many construction companies. From the building economic compactness index concept, it was studied the cost and environmental impacts (material consumption, embodied energy – EE and CO2 emission).

Design/methodology/approach

The research strategy takes advantage of a case study aiming to investigate the relation between design characteristics related to area (m²) and building economic compactness index (%) with cost (Research Stage 1) and with environmental impacts: (Research Stage 2). The study involved real data from social housing projects, chosen in terms in terms of very similar features like size, area and constructive method (constants), however, with dissimilar compactness (variable).

Findings

The lack of direct relation between area and cost signs the importance of including the cost of vertical plans considered in the economic compactness building. The higher the economic compactness index, the lower the cost, the lower the amount of material, EE and CO2 emission parameters. However, due to the wide range of EE and CO2 values available, the reduction in the amount of materials achieved by increasing building economic compactness index may not be reflected in EE and CO2 gains.

Research limitations/implications

As the limitation of this study, it must be taken into account a limited number of case buildings and the fact that the analysis is dependent on the reliability and accuracy of the data provided by constructors and the available information of EE and CO2 emission. As well discussed in the literature, the consistent database is a great challenge for the construction sector.

Originality/value

There might be alternatives to higher areas with relatively low-cost increments since results from buildings with the same area present different cost estimative and suggest a strong relationship with the economic compactness index. The large variation of EE and CO2 emission data indicates that reductions obtained by compactness increase may be impaired if the construction materials are produced with high levels of EE and CO2 emission. Thus, there must be an integrated effort on the part of designers (design and material specification) and manufacturers (material production), since isolated solutions may not be enough.
The Long-Term Trend Analysis and Scenario Simulation of the Carbon Price Based on the Energy-Economic Regulation
Authors: Li Zhao-Peng , Yang Li , Li Si-Rui , Yuan Xiaoling
Published: July 2020

Purpose

China’s national carbon market will be officially launched in 2020, when it will become the world’s largest carbon market. However, China’s carbon market is faced with various major challenges. One of the most important challenges is its impact on the social and economic development of arid and semi-arid regions. By simulating the carbon price trends under different economic development and energy consumption levels, this study aims to help the government can plan ahead to formulate various countermeasures to promote the integration of arid and semi-arid regions into the national carbon market.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve this goal, this paper builds a back propagation neural network model, takes the third phase of the European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) as the research object and uses the mean impact value method to screen out the important driving variables of European Union Allowance (EUA) price, including economic development (Stoxx600, Stoxx50, FTSE, CAC40 and DAX), black energy (coal and Brent), clean energy (gas, PV Crystalox Solar and Nordex) and carbon price alternatives Certification Emission Reduction (CER). Finally, this paper sets up six scenarios by combining the above variables to simulate the impact of different economic development and energy consumption levels on carbon price trends.

Findings

Under the control of the unchanged CER price level, economic development, black energy and clean energy development will all have a certain impact on the EUA price trends. When economic development, black energy consumption and clean energy development are on the rise, the EUA price level will increase. When the three types of variables show a downward trend, except for the sluggish development of clean energy, which will cause the EUA price to rise sharply, the EUA price trend will also decline accordingly in the remaining scenarios.

Originality/value

On the one hand, this paper incorporates driving factors of carbon price into the construction of carbon price prediction system, which not only has higher prediction accuracy but also can simulate the long-term price trend. On the other hand, this paper uses scenario simulation to show the size, direction and duration of the impact of economic development, black energy consumption and clean energy development on carbon prices in a more intuitive way.
Stakeholder management: the new role of business diplomacy
Authors: Falcão Pedro , Ramalho Nelson , Nobre Marta
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Stakeholder relations has been largely based upon a two-way public relations model. Along with this change, business diplomacy emerged as a proposal to renew stakeholder management. It is still uncertain if this proposal adds value to stakeholder management, which this study seeks to clarify.

Design/methodology/approach

Corporate representatives in charge of stakeholder management were invited to participate in an online survey measuring both public relations and business diplomacy activities. With a sample of 104 companies, factorial analyses were conducted on public relations and business diplomacy activities comparing model quality.

Findings

This study finds that public relations and business diplomacy activities share identity but not to the point of being fused and are thus different in nature. The best model showed three overarching functions (communication, influence and intelligence) implying that stakeholder management needs both public relations and business diplomacy.

Research limitations/implications

Findings suggest both public relations and business diplomacy research should be included in advanced stakeholder management studies.

Practical implications

By acknowledging the role that business diplomacy plays in stakeholder management, companies may place influence at the core of the renewed stakeholder management strategy to better deal with the increasingly complex business environment.

Originality/value

This study adds clarity to the role of public relations and business diplomacy in stakeholder management based on actual activities developed in organizations and reveals the underlying dimensions of communication, influence and intelligence.
Damnatio Memoriae
Authors: Hirsch Peter Buell
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to highlight the pitfalls companies face in confronting their history and how to manage them.

Design Methodology Approach

This study uses a review of the literature and current commentary on how different cultures and companies have come to terms with their history with slavery.

Findings

Companies that demonstrate transparency, accountability and consistency are more likely to accrue reputational equity.

Research Limitations Implications

The research involved was selective and by no means exhaustive.

Originality Value

This is the first treatment of contemporary corporate encounters with their history set in the context of historical revisionism.
Pathways through homelessness: the perceptions of homeless children in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
Authors: Wilshire Jones Bornman Anna , Mitchell Carol Jean
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to explore children’s pathways through homelessness within the South African context, with particular attention paid to pathways out of homelessness. This study focusses on factors influencing children’s successful transitions out of homelessness.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative exploratory design was used, using interviews with nine children who had exited or were in the process of exiting homelessness. Interviews were conducted at a children’s shelter in Pietermaritzburg or in the children’s home environments. Interviews were analysed thematically.

Findings

An ecological framework was used to frame the factors influencing children’s pathways in, through and out of homelessness in the children’s narratives. These included institutions, relationships and intrapersonal strengths and resources. The study suggested that constructive relationships with shelter staff and parental figures, as well as intrapersonal strengths, were the most prominent factors in children successfully negotiating their way through their homelessness. The importance of a relationship with the paternal family within some African cultures was also a point of leverage.

Research limitations/implications

Implications for policy and practise include the need for systemic change, as well as greater support for shelters and shelter staff. The issue of rivalry in the shelter context and the role of the paternal family in the reintegration process require more research attention. The research is limited to homeless children in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa.

Practical implications

This study provided feedback to the shelter regarding their strategies for assisting homeless children off the streets. It further provided evidence for the importance of the work of the shelter, to strengthen advocacy efforts. This may be useful to others in similar circumstances.

Social implications

This study highlights the importance of macrosystemic interventions in the efforts to assist homeless children, while at the same time not ignoring the inter and intra, personal elements to enhancing their well-being.

Originality/value

This paper is singular in its exploration of factors influencing children’s successful transitions out of homelessness within the South African context.
Cross-cultural adaptation of the recovery self-assessment instrument (RSA–R) person in recovery version to Brazilian Portuguese (Pt/Br)
Authors: Ricci Éllen Cristina , Leal Erotildes , La-Rotta Ehidee Isabel Gómez , Onocko-Campos Rosana , O'Connell Maria
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The Recovery Self-Assessment (RSA–R) in Revised Version is an instrument designed to assess the degree to which mental health programs and services implement recovery-oriented practices. The purpose of this paper is to conduct a cross-cultural adaptation of the RSA–R instrument for use in local mental health services in the city of Campinas, State of São Paulo, Brazil.

Design/methodology/approach

This method for cross-cultural adaptation of the instrument included a series of iterative steps including preparation, translation, back translation, harmonization, expert evaluation, focus groups, in-depth interviews, expert opinion and pilot study.

Findings

A multi-rater assessment of the equivalence of content between the original RSA–R and the translated version revealed that each of the 32 items achieved at least 88% agreement in terms of equivalency. A multi-step harmonization process revealed additional suggestions for improvements in readability, comprehension and applicability to Brazilian context. An expert in youth and adult education provided additional stylistic recommendations. Combined, this iterative approach to cross-cultural translation resulted in an adapted version of the instrument that was well understood, culturally appropriate and adequate for further verification of psychometric properties.

Originality/value

The recovery process in Brazil and in the USA has culturally determined differences in terms of the way mental disorders are understood, diagnosed and treated. Moreover, there are different notions of what constitutes desirable results of recovery, health care and welfare. At the present time, there are few, if any, available cross-cultural instruments to assess the recovery-orientation of services between Brazil and the USA.
Impact of a tenancy health check
Authors: Leigh-Hunt Nicholas , Fletcher-Brown Ruth , Mould Lynsey
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how loneliness and other mental health problems in older local authority housing tenants can be identified and addressed.

Design/methodology/approach

A tenancy health check form to identify health and well-being issues was developed by housing and public health for use in a rolling programme of housing officer visits to elderly tenants. This form facilitated enquiries on loneliness, social isolation and mental health as part of a supportive conversation. Individuals identified as being lonely were signposted to a range of community activities and social groups, and for some, ongoing support via telephone was provided by the housing officer.

Findings

The tenancy health check helped identify loneliness in this population group and enabled signposting to an increased number of local community activities. In addition to improved individual well-being, social capital has been strengthened through the creation of community networks.

Practical implications

Use of a health check form during housing officer visits provides a low-cost means of identifying health and well-being issues in vulnerable populations and facilitates adoption of making every contact count approaches by social housing providers.

Originality/value

This case study demonstrates the scope to provide holistic support for social housing tenants through better connections between public sector and community organisations.
Market reaction of the business cooperation with IT service provider: an investigation of IBM
Authors: Huang Cheng-Kui , Lee Kwo-Whei , Chou Chien-Huei
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Since business competition has become more intense throughout the world, most enterprises are seeking to engage in business cooperation with other partners in order to enhance their competitive strengths. However, they do not necessarily develop mature information technologies’ (ITs) capabilities and skills internally but rather outsource them to IT providers. Therefore, the benefits received by firms which adopt the approach of business cooperation with IT providers have become an interesting issue for managers and shareholders.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopted an event study methodology for apprising the short-term business value from the stock market. The authors predicted that investors will react as they receive news coverage about the strategy of business cooperation between outsourcing firms and an IT provider, International Business Machines (IBM) Corporation. The authors then collected all news coverage regarding the firms which had announced business cooperation with IBM and observed different types of abnormal returns.

Findings

On analyzing 53 announcements of cooperation with IBM from 2008 to 2016, the authors found that the announcement of business cooperation had a significantly positive influence on companies' market value.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the issue for market reaction to the announcement of business cooperation with IBM.
Clinical features of anti‐transcription intermediary factor 1γ (TIF1γ)‐positive dermatomyositis with internal malignancy and investigation of the involvement of TIF1γ expression in tumors in the pathogenesis of cancer‐associated dermatomyositis
Authors: Motegi Sei‐ichiro , Sekiguchi Akiko , Ikeuchi Hidekazu , Sakairi Toru , Ogawa Hiroomi , Fujii Takaaki , Sohda Makoto , Yajima Toshiki , Ida Shota , Takayasu Yukihiro , Shimoda Yuki , Hiromura Keiju , Saeki Hiroshi , Shirabe Ken , Chikamatsu Kazuaki , Yokoo Hideaki , Oyama Tetsunari , Ishikawa Osamu
Published: July 2020

Anti‐transcription intermediary factor 1γ (anti‐TIF1γ) antibody (Ab) is significantly associated with internal malignancies in adult patients with dermatomyositis (DM). Although pathogenesis of cancer‐associated DM is unknown, TIF1γ overexpression in tumors has been considered to be critical for the development of DM. The objective of this study was to investigate clinical characteristics of patients with anti‐TIF1γ Ab‐positive DM and elucidate risk factors that are potentially associated with internal malignancy. In addition, we compared the expression of TIF1γ in tumor tissues of patients with anti‐TIF1γ Ab‐positive DM, anti‐TIF1γ Ab‐negative DM and without DM in order to investigate the pathogenesis of cancer‐associated DM. We analyzed 77 Japanese patients with DM, and found 19 patients to be positive for anti‐TIF1γ Ab. Patients with anti‐TIF1γ Ab‐positive DM were older and presented heliotrope rash and flagellate erythema more frequently than patients without anti‐TIF1γ Ab (P < 0.05). Interstitial lung disease (ILD) and rapidly progressive ILD, as well as palmar violaceous erythema, were less frequent in patients with anti‐TIF1γ Ab than in patients without. Furthermore, internal malignancy and dysphagia were significantly more frequent in the anti‐TIF1γ Ab‐positive group (P < 0.01). Male sex and dysphagia were significantly associated with internal malignancy in patients with anti‐TIF1γ Ab‐positive DM (P < 0.01 and <0.05, respectively). Using immunohistochemistry, we examined the TIF1γ expression in tumors of 11 patients with cancer‐associated DM (anti‐TIF1γ Ab‐positive, nine; anti‐TIF1γ Ab‐negative, two) and 25 patients without DM. TIF1γ was highly expressed in all tumors, and there was no significant difference in TIF1γ expression between patients with and without DM. Furthermore, TIF1γ expressions in tumors were similar irrespective of the presence of anti‐TIF1γ Ab. These results suggest that anti‐TIF1γ antibody may not be simply induced by overexpression of TIF1γ in tumors in patients with DM, but that other mechanisms may exist.
Extending the climatological concept of ‘Detection and Attribution’ to global change ecology in the Anthropocene
Authors: Büntgen Ulf , González‐Rouco J. Fidel , Luterbacher Jürg , Stenseth Nils Christian , Johnson Derek M.
Published: July 2020

Research into global change ecology is motivated by the need to understand the role of humans in changing biotic systems. Mechanistic understanding of ecological responses requires the separation of different climatic parameters and processes that often operate on diverse spatiotemporal scales. Yet most environmental studies do not distinguish the effects of internal climate variability from those caused by external, natural (e.g. volcanic, solar, orbital) or anthropogenic (e.g. greenhouse gases, ozone, aerosols, land‐use) forcing factors.

We suggest extending the climatological concept of ‘Detection and Attribution’ (DA) to unravel abiotic drivers of ecological dynamics in the Anthropocene. We therefore apply DA to quantify the relative roles of natural versus industrial temperature change on elevational shifts in the outbreak epicentres of the larch budmoth (LBM; Zeiraphera diniana or griseana Gn.); the classic example of a cyclic forest defoliating insect.

Our case study shows that anthropogenic warming shifts the epicentre of travelling LBM waves upward, which disrupts the intensity of population outbreaks that occurred regularly over the past millennium in the European Alps. Our findings demonstrate the ability of DA to detect ecological responses beyond internal system variability, to attribute them to specific external climate forcing factors and to identify climate‐induced ecological tipping points.

In order to implement the climatological concept of ‘Detection and Attribution’ successfully into modern global change ecology, future studies should combine high‐resolution paleoenvironmental reconstructions and state‐of‐the‐art climate model simulations to inform inference‐based ecosystem models.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Impact of a new specialist alcohol and drug brief intervention service model integrated into the emergency department: An interrupted time series analysis
Authors: Elphinston Rachel A , Wyder Marianne , De Andrade Dominique , Nguyen Kim‐Huong , Gude Alan , Hipper Linda
Published: July 2020

Objective

To describe and examine the impact of a new specialist drug and alcohol brief intervention team (DABIT) model integrated into the ED on the identification of individuals at risk of future alcohol and other drug (AOD)‐related harm. A cost‐outcome analysis was conducted to assess the impact on costs per referral.

Methods

An interrupted time series analysis examined the changes in number of referrals following the implementation of the DABIT model over 2 years (January 2015–December 2016) within a large 436‐bed public hospital. The primary outcome of interest was the number of AOD‐related referrals per month identified following ED presentations. The independent variables were: time (measured in months), implementation periods (pre‐implementation; a transition period of adjustment during which the new DABIT model of care was developed; post‐implementation period with a fully operational DABIT model); and the number of full‐time equivalent staff per month to account for the increase in labour productivity. In a second time series analysis, the outcome was cost per referral per month.

Results

After controlling for changes in labour productivity, the number of referrals was significantly higher following the implementation of the DABIT model when compared to those during the pre‐implementation and transition periods. Costs were significantly lower following DABIT implementation resulting in $1096 net cost savings per referral.

Conclusions

Integration of a specialist brief intervention AOD model to support ED care may increase uptake of specialist AOD treatment and could be beneficial from an economic efficiency viewpoint.
Gelatin and the risk of bleeding after cardiac surgery
Authors: Koponen Timo , Musialowicz Tadeusz , Lahtinen Pasi
Published: July 2020

Background

Gelatins has been used in cardiac surgery because of their ability to preserve intravascular volume better than crystalloids. Unfortunately, gelatin has been associated with impaired coagulation and hemostasis, that may cause increased bleeding. We investigated whether the administration of gelatin increases postoperative bleeding after cardiac surgery.

Methods

Retrospective, observational single‐center cohort study in the intensive care unit of a tertiary teaching hospital. Postoperative bleeding, chest tube drainage volume and consumption of blood products were compared between groups.

Results

Cohort included 3067 consecutive patients who underwent cardiac surgery. First 1698 patients received gelatin (gelatin group), and 1369 patients did not (crystalloid group). The characteristics of the patients in the gelatin and crystalloid groups were comparable. Postoperative chest tube drainage was 18% (95% CI 11%‐20%) greater during the first 12 hours (P < .001) and 15% (95% CI 7%‐17%) greater during the first 24 hours (P < .001) in the gelatin group compared to the crystalloid group. Severe and massive postoperative bleeding was more common in the gelatin group compared to the crystalloid group (21% vs 16%, P < .001). Patients in the gelatin group received red blood cells (40% vs 20%, P < .001) and platelets (12% vs 8%, P < .001) more frequently than patients in the crystalloid group. However, the number of administered fresh‐frozen plasma transfusions did not differ between the groups.

Conclusion

Gelatin may increase postoperative bleeding and the need for blood product transfusions after cardiac surgery.
Neural Responses to Signals for Behavior Change: Greater Within‐Person Variability is Associated With Risk Factors for Substance Dependence
Authors: Bauer Lance O.
Published: July 2020

Background

An impaired ability to change behavior in the face of cues indicating a need for change is one means of defining risk for substance dependence. The present study used a cognitive task administered in a laboratory as a model of this process. It focused on 2 known and related correlates of risk (conduct disorder, borderline personality disorder) and examined their associations with reactivity to cues requesting a change in motor behavior.

Methods

A total of 224 teenagers, 14 to 19 years of age, performed a task during which white noise bursts were used to cue a requirement to reverse the mapping of right and left key press responses onto high‐ and low‐frequency pure tones during a subsequent trial block. The amplitude of the P300 electroencephalographic (EEG) response to each cue was summarized by calculating its across‐trial average as well as its intertrial variability (ITV). In addition, the number of motor response reversal failures (perseveration errors) was calculated.

Results

The ITV of the P300 response to cues for behavior change was superior to its average amplitude in revealing associations with risk: It was significantly greater among teenagers with more conduct problems and more borderline personality disorder symptoms in comparison with their less‐affected peers. ITV was also positively correlated with perseveration errors. No group differences were found in P300 amplitude averaged over trials.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that the measurement of intertrial variability in brain activity may be more valuable than the average level for revealing neurophysiological differences associated with impulsivity and personality risk factors for dependence. EEG measures may be particularly valuable in this context because they offer superior temporal resolution and signal‐to‐noise characteristics.
Self‐interested board of director and stock price crash risk in loss‐making firms
Authors: Lin Feng‐Yi , Chang Shen‐Ho , Huang Shaio‐Yan , Wang Teng‐Shih
Published: July 2020

This research investigates the relationship between fat cat firms and crash risk. Our empirical results find that under industry fixed effects, fat cat firms are positively associated with stock price crash, demonstrating that a self‐interested board of directors leads to a serious agency problem. We find consistent results after we control for other types of fat cat firms, sample selection bias, endogeneity problem and use different measurements of crash risk. Finally, we also report that under the within‐firm scenario, the more frequently firms are listed as fat‐cat firm announcements, the worse agency problem it encountered, which causes fat cat firms to have higher crash risk.
Vertebrate scavengers alter the chronology of carcass decay
Authors: Lira Luiz A. , Aguiar Ludmilla M. S. , Silveira Maurício , Frizzas Marina R.
Published: July 2020

When feeding on exposed corpses, vertebrate scavengers can alter the chronology of decay and interfere with post‐mortem interval estimation. However, information on vertebrate scavengers’ actions in areas of the Brazilian Cerrado is scarce, which may constrain future criminal investigations. Thus, we aimed to identify the vertebrate species that visit carcasses, determine whether the number of visits between seasons and among phytophysiognomies varies and examine whether decay stage influences attractiveness to vertebrate scavengers. We obtained data using camera traps installed in two protected areas with three Cerrado phytophysiognomies. The 2032 photographs and 109 videos obtained showed that eight mammal and one bird species interacted with the carcasses. Canis familiaris and Caracara plancus had the highest numbers of carcass visits and feeding events. Stage of decay negatively influenced the number of mammal visits to the carcasses, but bird visits were not affected. Seasons did not affect visit number, and most visits occurred in the cerrado sensu stricto. Because they interfere with the decay process, possibly compromising evidence interpretation, scavengers should be considered in forensic analyses.
Bedside ultrasonography for acute gallstone disease: a diagnostic accuracy study of surgical registrars and emergency medicine physicians
Authors: MacDonald Andrew A. , Richardson Malcolm , Sue Lisa , Hakiwai Angie , Stephenson George , Harman Richard , Agraval Jash
Published: July 2020

Background

Acute gallstone disease, primarily biliary colic and acute cholecystitis, represents a significant burden on surgical services. Prolonged waiting times for ultrasonography to confirm a diagnosis contributes to inefficiency and delays surgery. Bedside ultrasound offers an opportunity for clinicians make a diagnosis more promptly and streamline acute surgery. This study evaluated the reliability of bedside ultrasound performed by clinicians following local training and a trial of its introduction into clinical practice.

Methods

This was a prospective inter‐rater reliability study of bedside ultrasound scans performed on patients referred for suspected acute gallstone disease. Results were compared with a formal ultrasound scan in the radiology department. Inter‐rater agreement for the finding of gallstones and the imaging diagnosis of acute cholecystitis was assessed.

Results

A total of 124 patients underwent bedside ultrasound scan, 87 (70.2%) performed by surgical registrars. Mean patient age was 48 years (range 19–92 years) with 95 females (76.6%). Inter‐rater reliability for the finding of gallstones showed strong agreement with kappa 0.85 (95% confidence interval 0.76–0.95) whereas for the imaging diagnosis of acute cholecystitis there was a minimal agreement with kappa 0.37 (95% confidence interval 0.18–0.56). Sensitivity and specificity for the finding of gallstones on bedside ultrasound was 93% and 92%, respectively.

Conclusion

Bedside ultrasound is accurate for the finding of gallstones, but the imaging diagnosis of acute cholecystitis is more challenging. There remains the potential for this to improve the efficiency of surgical assessment in suspected acute gallstone disease and this supports the ongoing provision of bedside ultrasound in surgical services.
The effect of sonidegib (LDE225) on the pharmacokinetics of bupropion and warfarin in patients with advanced solid tumours
Authors: Pooler Darcy B. , Ness Dylan B. , Sarantopoulos John , Squittieri Nicholas , Ravichandran Shoba , Britten Carolyn D. , Amaravadi Ravi K. , Vaishampayan Ulka , LoRusso Patricia , Shapiro Geoffrey I. , Olszanski Anthony J. , Perez Raymond , Gutierrez Martin , O’Rourke Mark Allen , Chung Vincent , Lee James J. , Lewis Lionel D.
Published: July 2020

Aims

We evaluated the potential effect of sonidegib at an oral dose of 800 mg once daily (QD) on the pharmacokinetics (PK) of the probe drugs warfarin (CYP2C9) and bupropion (CYP2B6).

Methods

This was a multicentre, open‐label study to evaluate the effect of sonidegib on the PK of the probe drugs warfarin and bupropion in patients with advanced solid tumours. Cohort 1 patients received a single warfarin 15‐mg dose on Day 1 of the run‐in period and on Cycle 2 Day 22 (C2D22) of sonidegib administration. Cohort 2 patients received a single bupropion 75‐mg dose on Day 1 of run‐in period and on C2D22 of sonidegib administration. Sonidegib 800 mg QD oral dosing began on Cycle 1 Day 1 of a 28‐day cycle after the run‐in period in both cohorts.

Results

The geometric means ratios [90% confidence interval] for (S)‐warfarin with and without sonidegib were: area under the concentration–time curve from time 0 to infinity (AUCinf) 1.15 [1.07, 1.24] and maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) 0.88 [0.81, 0.97]; and for (R)‐warfarin were: AUCinf 1.10 [0.98, 1.24] and Cmax 0.93 [0.87, 1.0]. The geometric means ratios [90% confidence interval] of bupropion with and without sonidegib were: AUCinf 1.10 [0.99, 1.23] and Cmax 1.16 [0.95, 1.42]. Sonidegib 800 mg had a safety profile that was similar to that of lower dose sonidegib 200 mg and was unaffected by single doses of the probe drugs.

Conclusions

Sonidegib dosed orally at 800 mg QD (higher than the Food and Drug Administration‐approved dose) did not impact the PK or pharmacodynamics of warfarin (CYP2C9 probe substrate) or the PK of bupropion (CYP2B6 probe substrate).