bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perceptions of mobile plan unit pricing and terms and conditions
Authors: McQuilken Lisa , Robertson Nichola , Polonsky Michael , Harrison Paul , Bednall David
Published: September 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to test the efficacy of disclosing unit pricing and increasing the type size of complex terms and conditions in advertising. This is in line with recommendations made by global telecommunications regulators, including in Australia, to protect consumers in selecting mobile plans.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors employed a 2 (unit price disclosed: no, yes)×3 (type size: nine-, 12- and 15-point terms and conditions) full factorial, between-subjects experimental design using a scenario and fictional advertisements for 24-month mobile phone plans. This was complemented by 24 in-depth interviews with consumers who had recently purchased “real” plans and their assessment of these.

Findings

Extra information in the form of unit pricing has a positive influence on consumers’ value perceptions, but not on perceived confusion or risk. Presenting complex terms and conditions in larger type increases consumers’ perceived confusion and risk, but not perceived value, as consumers have difficulty understanding the complicated information presented.

Research limitations/implications

This study focused on a single country market for one product type of mobile phones, using a limited range of mobile plans.

Practical implications

Public policymakers and providers are advised to pre-test planned changes to advertising’s informational content prior to implementation to identify the efficacy of proposed changes to protect consumers. Consumers may also need to be educated to accurately interpret complex plans.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the domain of informational content in advertising as a form of consumer protection. The effect of unit pricing and larger type for terms and conditions on consumer perceptions has not been examined previously in complex product settings.
A “recursive framework” of corruption and development
Authors: Forson Joseph Ato
Published: September 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a conceptual framework on the relationship between corruption and development. The paper demonstrates how the impact of corruption on economic development might vary substantially from sustainable development (SD).

Design/methodology/approach

A combination of literature-based analysis was employed by considering concepts from corruption and development. A synthesis of these two concepts leads to the development of the conceptual framework.

Findings

The findings shows that corruption originates from three main sources, and that the effect of corruption on development might differ depending on how it is conceptualized, but the spate of corruption is contingent on institutional quality and gains in previous development trajectory.

Originality/value

Relating the concept of corruption and SD and linking it to theories of development brings a sense of novelty. This paper has in its essence contributed to the conceptualization of the relationship between corruption and development which will help deepen understanding on this contentious subject. The framework will help to improve theory, research and practice in development studies and allied fields.
The propensity to participate in formal training programmes
Authors: Berko O. Damoah Obi , Ashie Augutina , Kodjo Kekesi Elias
Published: September 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the factors that are likely to predict the likelihood of a small firm choosing to participate in formal training programmes. The objective is to inform public policy and practice with regard to what SMEs must do in order to realise the benefits of participating in formal training programmes like their counterpart large firms so as to remain competitive.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses a logistic regression model to ascertain the critical factors that are likely to predict SMEs’ chances to engage in formal training programmes. The data that inform the logit model are based on a non-probability sample of 85 SMEs drawn from Accra, the capital of Ghana.

Findings

The major findings are that firm size and having younger owner-managers that are daring play a critical role regarding whether or not small firms in Ghana will offer themselves for formal training programmes. However, firm size, including having young and daring owner-managers reflect the internal resource capacity of a firm. The results imply that the internal resource capacity of a firm is critical in predicting whether or not a small firm will offer itself for a formal training programme, although the changing trends from the external environment are also crucial.

Research limitations/implications

As a result of the lack of an available sample frame, the study is based on a non-probability sample and so it must be noted that the results must be interpreted in that context. Besides, the study sampled SMEs located in Accra, the capital of Ghana, thus future research must extend the study to cover the rest of the nine regions in Ghana. A further analysis based on probability sampling is needed to strengthen the results.

Practical implications

Consequently for the growth and the development of SMEs in developing countries, the need for owner-managers to first focus on internal resource building is key. What this means is that owner-managers cannot ignore the conscious attempt to monitor, develop and grow their own internal resource strengths before that can be aligned to any changing trends from the outside environment.

Originality/value

The paper provides evidence as regards why most SMEs worldwide find it difficult to participate in formal training programmes. The findings seek to enhance the understanding of the barriers to the growth of SMEs’ line of research.
Experimental contact zones reveal causes and targets of sexual selection in hybridizing lizards
Authors: MacGregor Hannah E. A. , While Geoffrey M. , Barrett Jade , Pérez i de Lanuza Guillem , Carazo Pau , Michaelides Sozos , Uller Tobias
Published: September 2016

Divergence in sexually selected traits in allopatry should affect the degree and direction of hybridization. However, few studies have established the causes and targets of sexual selection during secondary contact.

Common wall lizards (Podarcis muralis) from north‐central Italy have highly exaggerated male sexual traits compared to populations in Western Europe. Using experimental populations, we show that this creates asymmetries in male dominance, spatial habitat use and reproductive success upon secondary contact. Hybridization occurred almost exclusively between males of the Italian lineage and females of the Western European lineage.

We provide evidence to suggest stronger ongoing selection on male sexual traits within the dominant Italian lineage. However, these same characters did not predict hybridization, and hybrid matings contributed little to variance in male reproductive success. Instead, most hybrid offspring were sired by Italian males displaying phenotypes associated with lower within‐lineage reproductive success.

Thus, highly directional hybridization arises because some Italian males are out‐competed within their own lineage but remain competitive relative to males of the other lineage.

This pattern of hybridization is consistent with the direction of introgression in natural contact zones, but our data suggest that sexual selection acting through hybridization may be weak at the leading edge of natural hybrid zones.

A lay summary is available for this article.
Risks and benefits of the biological interface between managed and wild bee pollinators
Authors: Pirk Christian W. W. , Crewe Robin M. , Moritz Robin F. A.
Published: September 2016

Increasing global human populations and climate change not only increase the demand for food but require it to be supplied in sustainable quantities. One crucial aspect for sustainability is to ensure pollinator services for crop production and ecosystem services.

The global distribution of universal bee pollinators and the different degrees of intensity of bee‐keeping have resulted in a high variability of impacts. It is therefore essential to separate the different pollinator populations, in particular the cases of honeybees and bumblebees, into wild/feral and managed populations, which can and will interact.

Such interactions can be either beneficial or deleterious. A deleterious interaction between wild/feral colonies and the managed populations may result in disease and pest transmission.

However, a wild/feral population could easily buffer the effects of newly introduced pathogens increasing the resistance of the population as a whole. Varroa mites that caused the loss of the wild population of Apis mellifera in Europe have recently been established in South Africa. Studies of the mite's introduction into South Africa suggest that African honeybee populations are less affected by the mite and can deal with and survive parasite loads which would kill colonies in the Northern Hemisphere.

This observed resilience in Africa and Americas is most likely based on the interactions between wild and managed bees, since a large proportion of the total honeybee population is wild in these regions and therefore not influenced by humans. This allows the wild population to adapt to new parasites/pathogens, without human interference, with the large numbers of wild colonies ensuring that resilience is high. A high ratio of wild to managed colonies could also ensure that beneficial adaptations in the wild population filter through to the managed population.

Whether a similar situation prevails in bumblebees with wild and managed populations needs to be more carefully examined, particularly in the context of the global trade in colonies of these bees. Our current understanding of the interaction between wild/feral and managed populations suggests that transporting of species out of their endemic range should be done with great caution.

A lay summary is available for this article.
Differences in biotic interactions across range edges have only minor effects on plant performance
Authors: Katz Daniel S. W. , Ibáñez Inés
Published: September 2016

It is widely expected that plant species will expand their ranges poleward in response to climate change. In the process, individuals establishing beyond existing range margins will be exposed to new biotic communities, including different assemblages of natural enemies. The resulting differences in biotic interactions could lead to scenarios of enemy release or biotic resistance, and if the interactions are strong, they could influence plant performance and therefore colonization success.

In order to test whether natural enemies will affect range expansion dynamics, we transplanted seven species along a 450‐km latitudinal gradient that spanned the range edges of five of these species. The experiment was conducted over 5 years with ˜ 13 000 seedlings and included pesticide treatments to reduce invertebrate herbivory. We measured foliar damage caused by disease and invertebrate herbivores, seedling survival, light availability, soil moisture, soil nutrient concentrations and several other variables in nine forests located in four regions along the latitudinal gradient.

We found that several species (Carya glabra, Liriodendron tulipifera, Quercus velutina and Robinia pseudoacacia) tended to have less foliar disease beyond their range, but there were few substantial differences in herbivory across range edges (with the exception of Liriodendron tulipifera). After accounting for other variables, including environmental conditions and vertebrate herbivory, we found that foliar disease decreased survival for four species (Acer rubrum, Quercus alba, Quercus rubra and Quercus velutina) and foliar herbivory reduced survival for three species (Acer rubrum, Liriodendron tulipifera and Quercus rubra).

However, the effects of these biotic interactions on survival were very small (0–5% reductions in survival at observed levels of damage after four years), which is verified by the minor effects of the pesticide treatment on seedling survival.

Synthesis. Our results suggest that foliar herbivores and pathogens are unlikely to play a major role in the range expansion dynamics of these temperate tree species.
Water mass mixing shapes bacterial biogeography in a highly hydrodynamic region of the Southern Ocean
Authors: Hernando‐Morales Víctor , Ameneiro Julia , Teira Eva
Published: September 2016

Even though compelling evidences indicate that marine microbes show biogeographic patterns, very little is known on the mechanisms driving those patterns in aquatic ecosystems. In the present study, bacterial community structure was examined in epipelagic waters of a highly hydrodynamic area of the Southern Ocean to gain insight into the role that biogeochemical factors and water mass mixing (a proxy of dispersal) have on microbial biogeography. Four water masses that converge and mix around the South Shetland Islands (northern tip of the Antarctic Peninsula) were investigated. Bacterioplankton communities were water‐mass specific, and were best explained by dispersal rather than by biogeochemical factors, which is attributed to the relatively reduced environmental gradients found in these cold and nutrient rich waters. These results support the notion that currents and water mixing may have a considerable effect in connecting and transforming different water bodies, and consequently, in shaping communities of microorganisms. Considering the multidimensional and dynamic nature of the ocean, analysis of water mass mixing is a more suitable approach to investigate the role of dispersal on the biogeography of planktonic microorganisms rather than geographical distance.
The more-than-human city
Authors: Franklin Adrian
Published: September 2016

That the modern city should be a purified space of human habitation, a humanist citadel, constructed for, and by humanity alone, was an implicit assumption in urban studies until recently. We might say that urban studies has always been part of this humanist fantasy since it is hard to find a time when non-human elements and actants were not important to the life chances of cities everywhere. Not surprisingly, in 1970 Ray Pahl paid little attention to the non-human world but since then the politics of the ecologically minded and technical city has been populated by more and more instances of our dealings with what Latour calls the ‘extended democracy’ of other species and things. This paper extends this understanding by showing how many natural forces, species, technologies and materialities became entangled in the social, cultural and political life of contemporary cities. Using illustrations from Asian, European, American and Australasian cities, it shows how environmental and technical forces (such as fire, engineering, theory and flood) become incorporated into the life, subjectivities and structures of modern cities; how animals have become important companions to urbanites whose social bonds have fragmented; how animals and objects have been used to signify contested spaces; how they, together with other material objects and forces, enter into dialectical ‘more-than-human’ politics, how they form and embody the values and interests of particular city groups and how they become the focus and voice of otherwise difficult political, moral and ethical values. It shows, in other words, how they have disturbed the politics of the city creating new, more-than-human political interests and movements around their ‘residency’, lines of flight and alliances with humans.
Whose city? From Ray Pahl’s critique of the Keynesian city to the contestations around neoliberal urbanism
Authors: Mayer Margit
Published: September 2016

It is instructive to look at Pahl’s Whose City? from today’s perspective, though urban development and governance, in fact the very definition of the urban, have fundamentally transformed over these last 50 years. Comparing and contrasting the meaning of Whose City? then and now allows for a critical reflection of the changes neoliberal restructuring has wrought on urban landscapes and various stakeholders struggling over (the definition of and access to) the city. Such comparison helps to shed light on the (changing) role of urban sociology and urban theory in these transformation processes in general and on the ways in which critical urbanism has changed in response to these processes in particular.
Molecular Pathology of Pulmonary Edema in Forensic Autopsy Cases with Special Regard to Fatal Methamphetamine Intoxication
Authors: Du Yu , Jin Hong‐Nian , Zhao Rui , Zhao Dong , Xue Ye , Zhu Bao‐Li , Guan Da‐Wei , Xie Xiao‐Li , Wang Qi
Published: September 2016

Pulmonary edema is a common finding in fatal methamphetamine intoxication. However, the underlying mechanism remains poorly understood. This study investigated the molecular pathology of alveolar damage involving pulmonary edema in forensic autopsy cases. Seven candidate reference genes (RPL13A, YWHAZ, GUSB, SDHA, GAPDH, B2M, and ACTB) were evaluated in the lung by the geNorm module in qBaseplus software. RPL13A, YWHAZ, and GUSB were identified as the most stable reference genes. Using these validated reference genes, intrapulmonary mRNA expressions of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1), claudin‐5 (CLDN‐5), and aquaporins (AQPs) were examined. Relative mRNA quantification using TaqMan real‐time PCR assay demonstrated higher expressions of all markers except for AQP‐5 in fatal METH intoxication cases. These findings suggested alveolar damage and compensatory response in fatal METH intoxication cases. Systematic analysis of gene expressions using real‐time qPCR is a useful tool in forensic death investigation.
Lower urgency paediatric injuries: Parent preferences for emergency department or general practitioner care
Authors: Gafforini Sarah , Turbitt Erin , Freed Gary L
Published: September 2016

Objectives

Injuries are a significant proportion of lower urgency (triage category 4 or 5) child presentations to the EDs in metropolitan Melbourne. The purpose of the present study was to assess parental preferences and experiences regarding the treatment of lower urgency child injuries and the role of general practitioners (GPs) in such care.

Methods

A self‐administered survey study of 1150 parents of children ≤9 years of age attending the ED at one of four Victorian hospitals triaged with a lower urgency condition (triage category 4 or 5) looked at whether children with lower urgency injuries are frequently referred by their GP to the ED and parent preferences for the care of lower urgency child injuries. Parents were recruited by time of day and weekday/weekend. Descriptive and bivariate analyses were performed.

Results

Fewer parents of injured children, compared with illness, attempted to make a GP appointment prior to attending ED (35% vs 46%; P < 0.001). A greater proportion of injured children were referred to the ED by their GP than ill children (84% vs 59%; P = <0.001). More parents (53%) preferred ED for the care of child injuries than primary care. Parents who presented to the ED with an ill child were more likely to indicate that they have greater trust in ED doctors for the treatment of injuries than primary care doctors (56% vs 46%; P = 0.003).

Conclusions

Treatment provided in the ED for child injuries is valued highly by most parents, with a higher proportion of children with an injury being referred to the ED by their GP. Improving GP treatment skills and training opportunities may reduce GP referrals of lower urgency child injuries to the ED.
Opinion of Spanish Consumers on Hydrosustainable Pistachios
Authors: Noguera‐Artiaga Luis , Lipan Leontina , Vázquez‐Araújo L. , Barber Xavi , Pérez‐López David , Carbonell‐Barrachina Ángel A.
Published: September 2016

Fruits and vegetables cultivated under controlled deficit irrigation (CDI) are called hydrosustainable (hydroSOS) products and have its own personality and are environmentally‐friendly. Focus groups helped in classifying key farming, sensory, and health concepts associated with CDI‐grown pistachios. Besides, focus groups also helped in stating that a logo was needed for these special foods, and that a hydroSOS index is also essential to certify that the products have been controlled by a control board. Conjoint analysis was used to check which attributes could be helpful in promoting CDI‐grown pistachios among Spanish consumers in a 1st step toward the European Union (EU) market. It was clearly proved that the main silo of properties driving the attention of Spanish consumers was that related to health. The most important attributes for pistachios were “product of Spain,” “rich in antioxidant,” and “crunchy”; this finding was clearly related to the popularity of regional foods, the preoccupation of European consumers for their health, and the joy related to the crunchiness of toasted nuts, respectively. The use of these 3 concepts, together with the use of the hydroSOS logo, will be essential to promote hydroSOS pistachios among Spanish and EU consumers. Finally, it is important to highlight that in general Spanish consumers were willing to pay an extra amount of 1.0 euros per kg of hydroSOS pistachios. These earnings will be essential to convince Spanish farmers to implement CDI strategies and have a sustainable and environmental‐friendly use of the irrigation water.
Prevalence and Related Factors of Ineffective Self‐Health Management in Polymedicated Patients Over the Age of 65 Years
Authors: Montiel‐Luque Alonso , Núñez‐Montenegro Antonio Jesús , Martín‐Aurioles Esther , García‐Dillana Felicísima , Toro‐Toro Maria Carmen , González‐Correa José Antonio ,   Polipresact
Published: September 2016

PURPOSE

To determine the prevalence of Ineffective Self‐Health Management (ISHM) (00078) and its related factors in polymedicated patients over the age of 65 years.

METHODS

A cross‐sectional, descriptive design was used. A home interview was conducted with each participant (N = 375) for data collection.

FINDINGS

The prevalence of ISHM was 37.3%. The risk factors associated were social risk, depression, noncompliance, medication errors, and confusion with medications.

CONCLUSIONS

Among polymedicated elderly patients, the prevalence of ISHM is high. The diagnosis is closely connected to the compliance and complexity of the treatment regimen, in addition to those relating strictly to social and emotional factors.

IMPLICATIONS

Nursing methodology encompasses instruments that allow nurses in clinical practice to evaluate the issue of compliance.
Assays of Gamma‐Glutamyl Transferase and Carbohydrate‐Deficient Transferrin Combination from Maternal Serum Improve the Detection of Prenatal Alcohol Exposure
Authors: Niemelä Onni , Niemelä Solja , Ritvanen Annukka , Gissler Mika , Bloigu Aini , Vääräsmäki Marja , Kajantie Eero , Werler Martha M. , Surcel Heljä‐Marja
Published: September 2016

Background

Alcohol use during pregnancy leads to detrimental effects on fetal development. As self‐reports by mothers are known to be unreliable for assessing prenatal alcohol exposure, there is a need for sensitive and specific biomarkers for identifying those at risk for alcohol‐affected offspring.

Methods

We measured serum gamma‐glutamyl transferase (GGT), carbohydrate‐deficient transferrin (CDT), a mathematically formulated combination of GGT and CDT (GGT–CDT), and ethylglucuronide (EtG) concentrations from 1,936 mothers with a positive (n = 480) or negative (n = 1,456) history of alcohol use at the time of pregnancy. The material included 385 alcohol‐abusing mothers who subsequently gave birth to children with fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) and 1,551 mothers without FAS children including 95 women who reported a median of 1.0 standard drinks of alcohol per day during pregnancy and 1,456 nondrinking controls. Among those without FAS outcome, there were 405 mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and 745 mothers representing lifelong abstainers.

Results

Mothers of FAS children had higher mean GGT, CDT, GGT–CDT, and EtG levels than abstainers (p < 0.001 for all comparisons) or mothers reporting some alcohol consumption but whose children were not diagnosed with FAS (p < 0.001 for all comparisons). In receiver operating characteristic analyses using cutoffs based on abstainers, the area under the curves (AUCs) for GGT–CDT (0.873) were higher than those of GGT (0.824), CDT (0.776), or EtG (0.584) for differentiating the mothers of FAS children and abstainers. Unlike CDT, this combination marker also differed significantly between drinking mothers without FAS outcome and abstainers (AUC = 0.730, p < 0.001). In comparisons adjusted for GDM and body mass index, the group of mothers who had reported a median of 1.0 standard drinks of alcohol per day during pregnancy also differed from the group reporting no current alcohol intake in GGT (p < 0.02) and GGT–CDT (p < 0.01) levels.

Conclusions

Combination of GGT and CDT improves the identification of prenatal alcohol exposure and associated high‐risk pregnancies. A more systematic use of biomarkers may help intervention efforts to prevent alcohol‐induced adverse effects on fetal development.
Extrafloral‐nectaries and interspecific aggressiveness regulate day/night turnover of ant species foraging for nectar onBionia coriacea
Authors: Anjos Diego V. , Caserio Bárbara , Rezende Felipe T. , Ribeiro Sérvio P. , Del‐Claro Kleber , Fagundes Roberth
Published: September 2016

Plants bearing extrafloral nectaries (EFNs) vary the secretion of nectar between day and night, which creates turnover in the composition of interacting ant species. Daily variation in the composition of ant species foraging on vegetation is commonly observed, but its mechanisms are poorly understood. We evaluated the daily variation in nectar availability and interspecific aggressiveness between ants as possible regulatory mechanisms of the turnover in ant–plant interactions. We hypothesized that (i) plants would interact with more ant species during periods of higher secretion of nectar and that (ii) aggressive ant species would compete for nectar, creating a daily turnover of species collecting nectar. We tested this hypothesis by measuring the production of nectar during the day and night and by experimentally removingEFNs ofBionia coriacea(=Camptosema coriaceum) (Nees & Mart.) Benth. (Fabaceae: Faboideae) plants in a Brazilian savanna (Cerrado). We then compared the abundance and composition of ant species between those treatments and during the day. Our results indicate that more ant workers forage on plants during the day, when nectar was sugary, while more ant species forage at night, when aggressiveness between ant species was lower. We also detected a day/night turnover in ant species composition. Ant species foraging for nectar during the day were not the same at night, and this turnover did not occur on plants withoutEFNs. Both dominant ant species, diurnalCamponotus crassus(Hymenoptera: Formicidae) and nocturnalCamponotus rufipes(Hymenoptera: Formicidae), were the most aggressive species, attacking other ants in their specific periods of forage while also being very aggressive toward each other. However, this aggressiveness did not occur in the absence of nectar, which allowed non‐aggressive nocturnal ant species to forage only during the daytime, disrupting the turnover. We conclude that extrafloral‐nectar presence and interspecific aggressiveness between ants, along with other environmental factors, are important mechanisms creating turnovers in ants foraging on plants.
Pactola kuscheli sp. nov. (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), a potential cause for the decline of the threatened New Caledonian conifer, Agathis montana de Laubenfels, 1969 (Araucariaceae)
Authors: Mazur Miłosz A , Tron François , Mille Christian
Published: September 2016

Agathis montana is a conifer endemic to New Caledonia and one of the most threatened (Critically Endangered) plant species of this area. The exact causes of its decline are still unknown. The authors describe the characteristics of A. montana, the history and methodology of population monitoring, and possible factors causing the decline and habitat degradation. In 2014, some twigs showing symptoms suggesting attack by wood‐boring insects were collected. From these, imagines of an unknown weevil species belonging to the genus Pactola Pascoe (Eugnomini) were reared. The new species is described as Pactola kuscheli Mazur sp. nov. Colour photographs of the dorsal habitus, line drawings of taxonomically relevant structures and a key to all New Caledonian species of Pactola are provided. The biology of P. kuscheli Mazur sp. nov. is described and its role as a key threatening process of A. montana is discussed.
Dopamine enhances duodenal epithelial permeability via the dopamine D5 receptor in rodent
Authors: Feng X.‐Y. , Zhang D.‐N. , Wang Y.‐A. , Fan R.‐F. , Hong F. , Zhang Y. , Li Y. , Zhu J.‐X.
Published: September 2016

Aim

The intestinal barrier is made up of epithelial cells and intercellular junctional complexes to regulate epithelial ion transport and permeability. Dopamine (DA) is able to promote duodenal epithelial ion transport through D1‐like receptors, which includes subtypes of D1 (D1R) and D5 (D5R), but whether D1‐like receptors influence the duodenal permeability is unclear.

Methods

FITC–dextran permeability, short‐circuit current (ISC), Western blot, immunohistochemistry and ELISA were used in human D5R transgenic mice and hyperendogenous enteric DA (HEnD) rats in this study.

Results

Dopamine induced a downward deflection in ISC and an increase in FITC–dextran permeability of control rat duodenum, which were inhibited by the D1‐like receptor antagonist, SCH‐23390. However, DA decreased duodenal transepithelial resistance (TER), an effect also reversed by SCH‐23390. A strong immunofluorescence signal for D5R, but not D1R, was observed in the duodenum of control rat. In human D5R knock‐in transgenic mice, duodenal mucosa displayed an increased basal ISC with high FITC–dextran permeability and decreased TER with a lowered expression of tight junction proteins, suggesting attenuated duodenal barrier function in these transgenic mice. D5R knock‐down transgenic mice manifested a decreased basal ISC with lowered FITC–dextran permeability. Moreover, an increased FITC–dextran permeability combined with decreased TER and tight junction protein expression in duodenal mucosa were also observed in HEnD rats.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates, for the first time, that DA enhances duodenal permeability of control rat via D5R, which provides new experimental and theoretical evidence for the influence of DA on duodenal epithelial barrier function.
Adopting an external focus of attention alters intracortical inhibition within the primary motor cortex
Authors: Kuhn Y.‐A. , Keller M. , Ruffieux J. , Taube W.
Published: September 2016

Aim

Although it is well established that an external (EF) compared to an internal (IF) or neutral focus of attention enhances motor performance, little is known about the underlying neural mechanisms. This study aimed to clarify whether the focus of attention influences not only motor performance but also activity of the primary motor cortex (M1) when executing identical fatiguing tasks of the right index finger (first dorsal interosseous). Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) at intensities below motor threshold was applied over M1 to assess and compare the excitability of intracortical inhibitory circuits.

Methods

In session 1, 14 subjects performed an isometric finger abduction at 30% of their maximal force to measure the time to task failure (TTF) with either an IF or EF. In session 2, the same task was performed with the other focus. In sessions 3 and 4, subthreshold TMS (subTMS) and paired‐pulse TMS were applied to the contralateral M1 to compare the activity of cortical inhibitory circuits within M1 during EF and IF.

Results

With an EF, TTF was significantly prolonged (P = 0.01), subTMS‐induced electromyographical suppression enhanced (P = 0.001) and short‐interval intracortical inhibition (SICI) increased (P = 0.004).

Conclusion

The level of intracortical inhibition was previously shown to influence motor performance. Our data shed new light on the ability to instantly modulate the activity of inhibitory circuits within M1 by changing the type of attentional focus. The increased inhibition with EF might contribute to the better movement efficiency, which is generally associated with focusing externally.
Immune responses of a meningococcal A + W outer membrane vesicle (OMV) vaccine with and without aluminium hydroxide adjuvant in two different mouse strains
Authors: Tunheim Gro , Arnemo Marianne , Næss Lisbeth M. , Norheim Gunnstein , Garcia Luis , Cardoso Daniel , Mandiarote Aleida , Gonzalez Domingo , Sinnadurai Kalpana , Fjeldheim Åse‐Karine , Bolstad Karin , Rosenqvist Einar
Published: September 2016

Meningococci (Neisseria meningiditis) of serogroups A and W have caused large epidemics of meningitis in sub‐Saharan Africa for decades, and affordable and multivalent vaccines, effective in all age groups, are needed. A bivalent serogroup A and W (A + W) meningococcal vaccine candidate consisting of deoxycholate‐extracted outer membrane vesicles (OMV) from representative African disease isolates was previously found to be highly immunogenic in outbred mice when formulated with the adjuvant aluminium hydroxide (AH). OMV has been shown to have inherent adjuvant properties. In order to study the importance of AH and genetical differences between mice strains on immune responses, we compared the immunogenicity of the A + W OMV vaccine when formulated with or without AH in inbred C57BL/6J and BALB/cJ mice (Th1 and Th2 dominant strains, respectively). The immunogenicity of the vaccine was found to be comparable in the two mice strains despite their different immune profiles. Adsorption to AH increased anti‐OMV IgG levels and serum bactericidal activity (SBA). The immune responses were increased by each dose for the adsorbed vaccine, but the third dose did not significantly improve the immunogenicity further. Thus, a vaccine formulation with the A and W OMV will likely benefit from including AH as adjuvant.
CIP2A is a poor prognostic factor and can be a diagnostic marker in papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Chao Ting‐Ting , Maa Hung‐Chune , Wang Cheng‐Yi , Pei Dee , Liang Yao‐Jen , Yang Yi‐Feng , Chou Shuo‐Jiun , Chen Yen‐Lin
Published: September 2016

Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most common type of thyroid carcinoma. CIP2A has recently been described as a prognostic marker in many cancers. In this study, we assessed the value of this novel prognostic marker in PTC. A total of 178 surgical specimens of both benign and malignant thyroid tumors were collected. Immunohistochemical staining for CIP2A, HBME‐1, galectin‐3, and CK19 was performed. Western blotting for CIP2A was also performed. CIP2A was expressed in 85.3% of malignant tumors and 12.1% of benign tumors. ROC analysis showed that the AUC for CIP2A was higher than those for other tumor markers. Western blotting showed that CIP2A expression was higher in PTC than in other tumors. Poor progression‐free survival was observed in the high‐CIP2A expression group. High CIP2A expression is a poor prognostic factor and can be a diagnostic marker in PTC. The presence of any two of the three indicated makers (CIP2A, galectin‐3, and HBME‐1) is strongly correlated with the diagnosis of PTC.
Combined assessment using optical colonoscopy and computed tomographic colonography improves the determination of tumor location and invasion depth
Authors: Kanazawa Hidenori , Utano Kenichi , Kijima Shigeyoshi , Sasaki Takahiro , Miyakura Yasuyuki , Horie Hisanaga , Lefor Alan Kawarai , Sugimoto Hideharu
Published: September 2016

Introduction

An accurate assessment of the depth of tumor invasion in patients with colon cancer is an important part of the preoperative evaluation. Whether computed tomographic colonography (CTC) or optical colonoscopy (OC) is better to accurately determine tumor location and invasion depth has not been definitively determined. The aim of this study was to determine the diagnostic accuracy of tumor localization and tumor invasion depth of colon cancer by preoperative OC alone or combined with CTC.

Methods

Study participants include 143 patients who underwent both preoperative CTC using automated CO2 insufflation and OC from July 2012 to August 2013.

Results

The accuracy of tumor localization was significantly better with CTC than with OC (OC, 90%; CTC, 98%; P < 0.05). No tumor in the descending colon was localized accurately via OC alone. The accuracy of tumor invasion depth was better with CTC plus OC than with OC alone (OC, 55%; CTC, 73%; P < 0.05).

Conclusions

OC combined with CTC provides a more accurate preoperative determination of tumor localization and invasion depth than OC alone.
Processes and conditions underlying the link between shyness and school adjustment among Turkish children
Authors: Bayram Özdemir Sevgi , Cheah Charissa S. L. , Coplan Robert J.
Published: September 2016

This study examined the underlying processes and conditions that contribute to the school adjustment of shy children in Turkey, where children's interpersonal relationships in social settings and academic achievement are highly emphasized. First, we examined the unique mediating roles of children's feelings of social anxiety, depressive symptoms, and loneliness in the associations between shyness and indices of school outcomes (academic achievement and school liking/avoidance). Second, we explored the moderating role of children's peer acceptance in these associations. Fourth‐ and fifth‐grade children (N = 599; Mage = 10.11 years, SD = 0.65; 48% girls) provided information on shyness, social anxiety, depressive symptoms, loneliness, and school liking/avoidance. Head teachers in each classroom reported on students’ academic performance. The peer nomination method was used to assess children's peer relationships. Results revealed that when children displayed shy behaviours, they reported more depressive symptoms that were, in turn, associated with poorer academic performance, less school liking, and higher school avoidance. Moreover, shyness negatively predicted school liking at low levels of peer acceptance, suggesting that difficulties in peer relationships increased shy children's risk of school dissatisfaction. Overall, our findings support the importance of the interpersonal relationship context for children's adjustment within the Turkish cultural context.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

Shy children have difficulties initiating and maintaining social interactions, which put them at risk for a wide range of socio‐emotional difficulties.

Shy children have poor academic performance and experience school adjustment difficulties in North America.

What does this study add?

Shyness is an important risk factor for poorer academic performance and adjustment among children in Turkey.

The association between shyness and difficulties at school is explained by children's experience of depressive symptoms.

Difficulties with peer relationships increase shy children's risk of school dissatisfaction.
Alternatives to allogeneic platelet transfusion
Authors: Desborough Michael J. R. , Smethurst Peter A. , Estcourt Lise J. , Stanworth Simon J.
Published: September 2016

Allogeneic platelet transfusions are widely used for the prevention and treatment of bleeding in thrombocytopenia. Recent evidence suggests platelet transfusions have limited efficacy and are associated with uncertain immunomodulatory risks and concerns about viral or bacterial transmission. Alternatives to transfusion are a well‐recognised tenet of Patient Blood Management, but there has been less focus on different strategies to reduce bleeding risk by comparison to platelet transfusion. Direct alternatives to platelet transfusion include agents to stimulate endogenous platelet production (thrombopoietin mimetics), optimising platelet adhesion to endothelium by treating anaemia or increasing von Willebrand factor levels (desmopressin), increasing formation of cross‐linked fibrinogen (activated recombinant factor VII, fibrinogen concentrate or recombinant factor XIII), decreasing fibrinolysis (tranexamic acid or epsilon aminocaproic acid) or using artificial or modified platelets (cryopreserved platelets, lyophilised platelets, haemostatic particles, liposomes, engineered nanoparticles or infusible platelet membranes). The evidence base to support the use of these alternatives is variable, but an area of active research. Much of the current randomised controlled trial focus is on evaluation of the use of thrombopoietin mimetics and anti‐fibrinolytics. It is also recognised that one alternative strategy to platelet transfusion is choosing not to transfuse at all.
Loss of TAB3 expression by shRNA exhibits suppressive bioactivity and increased chemical sensitivity of ovarian cancer cell lines via the NF‐κB pathway
Authors: Chen Yannan , Wang Xia , Duan Chengwei , Chen Jie , Su Ming , Jin Yunfeng , Deng Yan , Wang Di , Chen Caiwen , Zhou Linsen , Cheng Jialin , Wang Wei , Xi Qinghua
Published: September 2016

Ovarian cancer is a leading cause of death among gynaecologic malignancies. Despite many years of research, it still remains sparing in reliable diagnostic markers and methods for early detection and screening. Transforming growth factor β‐activated protein kinase 1 (TAK1)‐binding protein 3 (TAB3) was initially characterized as an adapter protein essential for TAK1 activation in response to IL‐1β or TNFα, however, the physiological role of TAB3 in ovarian cancer tumorigenesis is still not fully understood. In this study, we evaluated the effects of TAB3 on ovarian cancer cell lines. Expressions of TAB3 and PCNA (proliferating cell nuclear antigen) were found to be gradually increased in EOC tissues and cell lines, by western blot analysis and qRT‐PCR. Distribution of TAB3 was further analysed by immunohistochemistry. In vitro, knockdown of TAB3 expression in HO8910 or SKOV3 ovarian cancer cells significantly inhibited bioactivity of ovarian cancer cells, including proliferation and cell‐cycle distribution, and promoted chemical sensitivity to cisplatin and paclitaxel treatment via inhibiting NF‐κB pathways. In conclusion, our study strongly suggests a novel function of TAB3 as an oncogene that could be used as a biomarker for ovarian cancer. It provides a new insight into the potential mechanism for therapeutic targeting, in chemotherapy resistance, common in ovarian cancer.
Transfusion with packed red blood cells while awaiting lung transplantation is associated with reduced survival after lung transplantation
Authors: Hayes Don , Tumin Dmitry , Yates Andrew R. , Mansour Heidi M. , Nicol Kathleen K. , Tobias Joseph D. , Palmer Andre F.
Published: September 2016

Background

The effect of pretransplant transfusion of red blood cells on survival after lung transplantation (LTx) has not been studied.

Methods

The UNOS database was queried from 2005 to 2013 to compare survival in recipients receiving a transfusion while on the LTx wait list.

Results

Of 12 283 adult patients undergoing single or bilateral LTx from May 2005 onwards, 11 801 met inclusion criteria, among whom 512 required transfusion while on the LTx wait list. Transfusion was associated with a higher mortality hazard in unadjusted Cox proportional hazards analysis (HR=1.296; 95% CI: 1.124, 1.494; P<.001), and in a multivariable Cox model (HR=1.178; 95% CI: 1.013, 1.369; P=.033) after multiple imputation was used to complete data on covariates. Propensity score matching was used to match transfusion recipients to nonrecipients on the likelihood of having received transfusions on the wait list, calculated from characteristics at the time of listing. Unadjusted Cox regression stratified on the matched pairs also demonstrated an association between transfusion receipt on the wait list and higher post‐transplant mortality hazard (HR=1.494; 95% CI: 1.127, 1.979; P=.005).

Conclusions

Blood transfusion while on the LTx wait list was associated with diminished patient survival after transplantation.
Training for cytotechnologists and cytopathologists in the developing world
Authors: Field A. S.
Published: September 2016

Currently there is a major challenge to train sufficient cytopathologists and cytotechnicians in developing countries that have poor medical and pathology infrastructure. Cytology requires well trained pathologists and laboratory staff but it needs only minimal laboratory resources. Cytology can provide the material for rapid, accurate and inexpensive diagnoses of infections such as tuberculosis and of benign and malignant palpable and impalpable lesions. Cytology can achieve this in the developing world by utilizing fine needle aspiration biopsy cytology, general fluids cytology and cervical cytology, in the same manner as is currently done in the developed world where cytology specimens are used to make cytomorphological diagnoses and increasingly to provide material for the full range of ancillary testing including molecular pathology. There are a number of ways to develop sustainable training in cytology in developing countries, especially in fine needle aspiration biopsy cytology, and these are presented and discussed.
Spread rates on fragmented landscapes: the interacting roles of demography, dispersal and habitat availability
Authors: Barros Ceres , Palmer Stephen C. F. , Bocedi Greta , Travis Justin M. J.
Published: September 2016

Aim

We still lack a comprehensive understanding of the relative importance of demographic, dispersal and landscape characteristics on species’ rates of range expansion (RRE) and on how these factors interact. Here, we provide an analysis of these effects for passive dispersers, by investigating how habitat characteristics, such as habitat quality, availability and fragmentation, interplay with species’ dispersal characteristics in determining species’RRE. In addition, we assessed the predictability ofRREin cases where we have the knowledge of a species’ demography, dispersal and habitat availability.

Methods

Using the newly available individual‐based modelling platform,RangeShifterwe simulated the range expansion of species with different dispersal abilities, by varying mean dispersal distance and number of emigrants, on various landscapes. Landscapes varied in habitat quality (in terms of carrying capacity and species’ growth rates) and in habitat availability (in terms of the proportion of suitable habitat and its degree of fragmentation).

Results

Our results show that 55% of the total variation inRREwas explained by our six main effects, being considerably faster in landscapes with more suitable habitat, but only slightly affected by the degree of habitat fragmentation. Also, synergies between the amount of suitable habitat and species dispersal characteristics had significant positive effects on range expansion. Notably, however, 33% of variation inRREwas not explained by any of the tested factors or interactions between them and can be considered inherent and irreducible uncertainty.

Main conclusions

Simulation‐based approaches provide important insights into the drivers ofRREthat are relevant for conservation planning. For instance, our results indicate when it is likely to be better to allocate resources to improve existing habitat rather than creating new habitat, and vice versa. Additionally, our results emphasize that there will often be substantial uncertainty in theRRE, which needs to be taken into account for ecological management.