bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel nonsense variant in SUPT20H gene associated with Rheumatoid Arthritis identified by Whole Exome Sequencing of multiplex families
Authors: Veyssiere Maëva , Perea Javier , Michou Laetitia , Boland Anne , Caloustian Christophe , Olaso Robert , Olaso Robert , Deleuze Jean-François , Cornelis François , Petit-Teixeira Elisabeth , Chaudru Valérie
Published: September 2018

The triggering and development of Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is conditioned by environmental and genetic factors. Despite the identification of more than one hundred genetic variants associated with the disease, not all the cases can be explained. Here, we performed Whole Exome Sequencing in 9 multiplex families (N=30) to identify rare variants susceptible to play a role in the disease pathogenesis. We pre-selected 73 genes which carried rare variants with a complete segregation with RA in the studied families. Follow-up linkage and association analyses with pVAAST highlighted significant RA association of 24 genes (p-value < 0.05 after 106 permutations) and pinpointed their most likely causal variant. We re-sequenced the 10 most significant likely causal variants (p-value ≤ 0.019 after 106 permutations) in the extended pedigrees and 9 additional multiplex families (N=110). Only one SNV in SUPT20H, c.73T>A (p.Lys25*), presented a complete segregation with RA in an extended pedigree with early-onset cases. In summary, we identified in this study a new variant associated with RA in SUPT20H gene. This gene belongs to several biological pathways like macro-autophagy and monocyte/macrophage differentiation, which contribute to RA pathogenesis. In addition, these results showed that analyzing rare variants using a family-based approach is a strategy that allows to identify RA risk loci, even with a small dataset.

Author summary

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is one of the most frequent auto-immune disease in the world. It causes joint swellings and pains which can lead to mobility impairment. To date, the scientific community has identified a hundred genes carrying variants predisposing to RA, in addition to the major gene HLA-DRB1. However, they do not explain all cases of RA. By examining nine families with multiple RA cases, we identified a new rare nonsense variant in SUPT20H gene, c.73T>A (p.Lys25*). This finding is supported by the literature as the SUPT20H gene regulates several biological functions, such as macro-autophagy or monocyte/macrophage differentiation, that contribute to RA pathogenesis.
Regulation and governance of the Internet of Things in India
Authors: Chatterjee Sheshadri , Kar Arpan Kumar
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to highlight the importance of Internet of Things (IoT) in India. The purpose also includes providing insights regarding policy framing for IoTs with a focus on regulation and governance.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative approach has been taken here for understanding the issues of IoT policy for India so far as regulations and governance are concerned.

Findings

This study highlights that the draft IoT policy of India, 2015 is to be improved. Attention is to be focused on regulation and governance for addressing security and privacy issues among other issues. For proper enablement of IoT technology, arrangements of funds are essential.

Research limitations/implications

IoT-related technologies in India have immense potential for the industries. This study implies the importance of security and privacy issues. If these issues are properly addressed, the industries will flourish further.

Practical implications

The study provides insights covering how usage of IoT technology would help the industry to grow up, how research and development organizations would be able to strengthen IoT technology for further development and to what extent it will improve the human daily activities.

Social implications

IoT would influence lives of millions of people of India. IoT-related policies would have huge social implication in terms of human–device interactions and communications. This research is a contemporary study on the implication of IoT policy toward the future growth of IoT-enabled devices in India.

Originality/value

The Government of India is expected to frame a comprehensive IoT policy with the help of draft IoT policy of 2015. This paper has taken a unique attempt to provide effective inputs to develop a comprehensive IoT policy for India.
Historical investment at the Budapest Zoo
Authors: Bakonyi Zoltan
Published: September 2018

Subject area

Strategic management.

Study level/applicability

MBA, or master students studying management.

Case overview

This case study is about the Budapest Zoo, which is going to implement a 25bn HUF (US$86.8m) investment which will increase its land area by 50 per cent. With this project one of the most modern zoo buildings in Europe will be opened, called “Biodome”. This, 36-meter-high, 1.7 ha building will provide unique experience for the visitors, but on the other hand, the Biodome will increase the operating costs of the zoo (according to some estimations the costs can rise by 50 per cent). Albeit, the Biodome will open in 2019, some parts of the development will be ready by next year; therefore, the zoo should have a clear strategy in a few months.

Expected learning outcomes

The main aim of this case is to demonstrate the importance of positioning in strategy and value creation. It starts with the identification of the most valuable customer segments, after that it helps to describe the value proposition to each segments and finally it suggest a pricing strategy for each part of the zoo.

Supplementary materials

Teaching Notes are available for educators only. Please contact your library to gain login details or email support@emeraldinsight.com to request teaching notes.

Subject code

CSS 11: Strategy.
MHD natural convection in a square porous cavity filled with a water-based magnetic fluid in the presence of geothermal viscosity
Authors: Sheremet Mikhail A. , Astanina Marina S. , Pop Ioan
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is a numerical analysis of natural convection in a square porous cavity filled with a water-based magnetic fluid of geothermal viscosity under the effect of inclined uniform magnetic field.

Design/methodology/approach

The domain of interest includes the square porous cavity filled with a water-based magnetic fluid (W40). Horizontal walls are supposed to be adiabatic, while right vertical wall is kept at constant low temperature and left vertical wall is kept at constant high temperature. An inclined uniform magnetic field affects the fluid flow and heat transfer inside the cavity. The viscosity of the working fluid is proportional to the linearly decreasing function of depth (vertical coordinate) and inversely proportional to the linear function of temperature. It is assumed in the analysis that the flow is laminar. The fluid is Newtonian and the Boussinesq approximation is valid. The governing equations have been discretized using the finite difference method with the uniform grid. Simulations have been carried out for different values of the Rayleigh number, Hartmann number, Darcy number, magnetic field inclination angle and viscosity variation parameters.

Findings

It has been revealed that an increase in the viscosity parameters leads to the heat transfer enhancement and convective flow intensification. At the same time, this intensification is more essential for high values of the Rayleigh number.

Originality/value

The originality of this work is to analyze MHD natural convection in a square porous cavity filled with a water-based magnetic fluid of geothermal viscosity. The results would benefit scientists and engineers to become familiar with the analysis of convective heat and mass transfer in nanofluids, and the way to predict the properties of nanofluid convective flow in advanced technical systems, in industrial sectors including transportation, power generation, chemical sectors and electronics.
Does financial advisor quality improve liquidity and issuer benefits in segmented markets? Evidence from the municipal bond market
Authors: Daniels Kenneth , Dorminey Jack , Smith Brent , Vijayakumar Jayaraman
Published: September 2018

Purpose

Using a unique sample of about 563,000 competitively bid municipal revenue bonds with financial advisors issued during the period 1998–2012, the purpose of this paper is to examine the role and influence of financial advisor quality in the municipal bond market.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use a sample of about 563,000 competitively bid municipal revenue bonds with financial advisors issued during the period 1998–2012. The authors estimate a selection model where the authors identify the factors leading to the selection of a high-quality financial advisor. The authors then, using the inverse mills ratio from the first regression, estimate the association of high-quality advisor (and other factors) with the cost of borrowing.

Findings

The results suggest that high-quality financial advisors provide a credible signal to market participants about issue and issuer quality. This signal translates to a greater number of bids for issues that use high-quality financial advisors, resulting in improved liquidity and lower borrowing costs for these issues. The results also show that the beneficial effects obtained by using higher quality financial advisors are prevalent across all categories of issues such as for refunding and non-refunding issues, and for both insured and non-insured issues. The benefits are also generally observed for issues of most size categories. The results also suggest that the passage of the Dodd–Frank Act requiring mandatory registration of financial advisors and enhanced scrutiny has only increased the benefits to issuers from using higher quality financial advisors.

Originality/value

This paper differs from previous research in several important ways. First, the study is, to the authors’ knowledge, the first study that explores the relationship between financial advisor quality and liquidity in the municipal sector. The authors show using higher quality financial advisors enhances liquidity for the issues by attracting a significantly large number of bids. Second, the sample is exclusively comprised of competitively bid revenue issues all of which rely on financial advisors. This enables us to examine more unambiguously the influence of financial advisor quality, without the confounding effects of issues without financial advisors. Third, time coverage (1998–2012) and size of the sample (roughly 563,000 bond issues) enables us to conduct varied sub-sample analyses with greater power since the resulting sub-sample partitions themselves are of very large size. This provides better and additional insights into the role of financial advisor quality. The more current data when compared to prior research enables us to examine the impact of financial advisor quality inter-temporally with special attention devoted to the period after passage of the Dodd–Frank Act.
Novel dynamic CAPP system for hybrid additive–subtractive–inspection process
Authors: Abdulhameed Osama , Al-Ahmari Abdurahman Mushabab , Ameen Wadea , Mian Syed Hammad
Published: September 2018

Purpose

Hybrid manufacturing technologies combining individual processes can be recognized as one of the most cogent developments in recent times. As a result of integrating additive, subtractive and inspection processes within a single system, the relative benefits of each process can be exploited. This collaboration uses the strength of the individual processes, while decreasing the shortcomings and broadening the application areas. Notwithstanding its numerous advantages, the implementation of hybrid technology is typically affected by the limited process planning methods. The process planning methods proficient at effectively using manufacturing sources for hybridization are notably restrictive. Hence, this paper aims to propose a computer-aided process planning system for hybrid additive, subtractive and inspection processes. A dynamic process plan has been developed, wherein an online process control with intelligent and autonomous characteristics, as well as the feedback from the inspection, is utilized.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research, a computer-aided process planning system for hybrid additive, subtractive and inspection process has been proposed. A framework based on the integration of three phases has been designed and implemented. The first phase has been developed for the generation of alternative plans or different scenarios depending on machining parameters, the amount of material to be added and removed in additive and subtractive manufacturing, etc. The primary objective in this phase has been to conduct set-up planning, process selection, process sequencing, selection of machine parameters, etc. The second phase is aimed at the identification of the optimum scenario or plan.

Findings

To accomplish this goal, economic models for additive and subtractive manufacturing were used. The objective of the third phase was to generate a dynamic process plan depending on the inspection feedback. For this purpose, a multi-agent system has been used. The multi-agent system has been used to achieve intelligence and autonomy of different phases.

Practical implications

A case study has been developed to test and validate the proposed algorithm and establish the performance of the proposed system.

Originality/value

The major contribution of this work is the novel dynamic computer-aided process planning system for the hybrid process. This hybrid process is not limited by the shortcomings of the constituent processes in terms of tool accessibility and support volume. It has been established that the hybrid process together with an appropriate computer-aided process plan provides an effective solution to accurately fabricate a variety of complex parts.
Framing first-year writing course guides: a content analysis
Authors: Insua Glenda M.
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine the extent to which first-year writing course guides contain instructional content and whether the ACRL Framework for information literacy has been addressed in these guides.

Design/methodology/approach

First-year writing course guides were identified from American Research Libraries websites and examined for instructional elements. These elements were categorized using a rubric that mapped the Framework to instructional content. Qualtrics was used to organize and analyze the data.

Findings

Most first-year writing course guides include instructional content, but less than half incorporate the Framework in some way. Guides that do incorporate the Framework focus on “searching as strategic exploration” and “research as inquiry”.

Practical implications

This paper provides librarians with practical information on first-year writing guides and includes examples of how the Framework might be addressed.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature on research guide content and is the first to invent first-year writing course guides.
Accessibility of distance library services for deaf and hard of hearing users
Authors: Getts Erica , Stewart Katie
Published: September 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to review existing literature on distance library services for individuals with disabilities with a specific focus on deaf and hard of hearing (D/HH) users and provide strategies for creating an online library that is accessible to this community.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors reviewed articles covering distance library services for D/HH users and then identified specific parts of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0 that are applicable to the D/HH community. By using the literature, strategies for developing and purchasing accessible electronic library resources are presented.

Findings

While there is a breadth of literature focused on creating accessible resources for online libraries, there is a gap when it comes to D/HH users. Libraries can cater to this community by providing text-based alternatives for all library instructional materials and working closely with vendors to ensure that library databases are accessible.

Practical implications

The authors present strategies for creating and converting electronic resources and services that are accessible to D/HH users.

Originality/value

This paper fills a gap in literature by addressing fully online library services for users with disabilities with a particular focus on meeting the needs of D/HH users in a distance-learning environment.
Conceptualisation and use of executive functions in paediatrics: A scoping review of occupational therapy literature
Authors: Josman Naomi , Meyer Sonya
Published: September 2018

Background/aim

Knowledge and understanding of deficits in executive functions has expanded in recent years and its relevance to occupational therapy has been established. The purpose of this review was to identify, analyse, synthesise and describe the updated occupational therapy scientific literature that addresses the subject of executive functions, specifically focusing on children and adolescents.

Method

Scoping review methodology was implemented to map the occupational therapy literature on executive functions in children and adolescents over the past decade. Articles were retrieved from five electronic databases.

Results

Fifty publications met the inclusion criteria. The research included a wide age range, different diagnoses, use of diverse executive functions definitions and assortment of assessments and interventions.

Conclusion

A unique definition of executive functions among children and adolescents was proposed. This definition can assist both clinicians and researchers in the field. Continued research to establish the profession in a key position is recommended to understand the underlying mechanisms of daily performance.
Role of psychological variables in the determination of the worker's wage: Further evidence from the United States
Authors: Mohanty Madhu S.
Published: September 2018

The current study examines the roles of three psychological variables, job satisfaction, positive attitude and self‐satisfaction, in the determination of the worker's wage. Using two samples from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youths, 1979 (NLSY79), the study for the first time models a possible simultaneous relationship among these four variables and estimates these equations by an appropriate two‐stage procedure. Our results indicate that the worker's wage is positively related to these psychological variables. This finding has important policy implications and thus it calls for future research in this direction.
Reward‐related brain structures are smaller in patients with schizophrenia and comorbid metabolic syndrome
Authors: de Nijs J. , Schnack H. G. , Koevoets M. G. J. C. , Kubota M. , Kahn R. S. , van Haren N. E. M. , Cahn W.
Published: September 2018

Objective

Metabolic syndrome (MS) is highly prevalent in schizophrenia and often a consequence of unhealthy behaviour. Reward‐related brain areas might be associated with MS, since they play a major role in regulating health behaviour. This study examined the relationship between MS and brain volumes related to the reward system in schizophrenia.

Method

We included patients with schizophrenia, with MS (MS+; n = 23), patients with schizophrenia, without MS (MS−; n = 48), and healthy controls (n = 54). Global brain volumes and volumes of (sub)cortical areas, part of the reward circuit, were compared between patients and controls. In case of a significant brain volume difference between patients and controls, the impact of MS in schizophrenia was examined.

Results

Patients had smaller total brain (TB; P = 0.001), GM (P = 0.010), larger ventricles (P = 0.026), and smaller reward circuit volume (P < 0.001) than controls. MS+ had smaller TB (P = 0.017), GM (P = 0.008), larger ventricles (P = 0.015), and smaller reward circuit volume (P = 0.002) than MS−. MS+ had smaller orbitofrontal cortex (OFC; P = 0.002) and insula volumes (P = 0.005) and smaller OFC (P = 0.008) and insula cortical surface area (P = 0.025) compared to MS−.

Conclusion

In schizophrenia, structural brain volume reductions in areas of the reward circuitry appear to be related to comorbid MS.
Native parasitic nest fly impacts reproductive success of an island‐endemic host
Authors: Hayes C. D. , Hayes T. I. , McClure C. J. W. , Quiroga M. , Thorstrom R. K. , Anderson D. L.
Published: September 2018

Parasitic nest fliesPhilornisspp. are a driving force threatening the extinction of bird species endemic to Neotropical islands such as the Galápagos, where introducedPhilornis downsinegatively impacts reproductive success of naïve avian hosts. Elsewhere in the Neotropics, such as in the Caribbean region wherePhilornisnest flies are native, effects ofPhilornison host productivity are poorly known. We manipulated parasitism by the native Hispaniolan nest flyPhilornis picion a critically endangered endemic host, Ridgway's hawkButeo ridgwayi, to study the impact of nest fly myiasis on hawk breeding success with the goal of providing a management option for endangered species until broad‐scale solutions can be found. Our treatment protocol was enough to reduceP. piciabundance by 89% and increase probability of fledging by 179% for treated nestlings. Our results indicate that parasitism by nest flies decreases survival and fledging success of nestling Ridgway's hawks and is a possible factor in the decline of the species. To the best of our knowledge, this work represents the first quantitative evidence of nest fly impact on survival or productivity in a non‐passerine host.
Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma ligands affect NF‐kB and cytokine synthesis in the porcine endometrium—An in vitro study
Authors: Kunicka Zuzanna , Kurzynska Aleksandra , Szydlowska Anna , Mierzejewski Karol , Bogacka Iwona
Published: September 2018

Problem

Cytokines, mediators of the immune response, are involved in the regulation of female reproductive processes during the estrous cycle and pregnancy. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of selected peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) ligands on the expression of nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) and selected cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)‐1β, ‐4, ‐6, ‐8, ‐10, and the leukemia inhibitory factor, in the porcine endometrium on days 10‐12 and 14‐16 of the estrous cycle (mid‐ and late luteal phase, respectively) or pregnancy (maternal recognition of pregnancy and beginning of implantation, respectively).

Method of study

Endometrial slices were incubated in vitro in the presence of PPARγ agonists, 15‐deoxy‐Δ12, 14‐prostaglandin J2 or rosiglitazone, and PPARγ antagonist T0070907. mRNA and protein levels in tissues were determined by real‐time PCR and Western blot.

Results

On days 10‐12 of the estrous cycle and days 14‐16 of pregnancy, PPARγ ligands enhanced the expression of NF‐κB, mRNA cytokines, and/or proteins. During the late luteal phase of the estrous cycle (days 14‐16) and maternal recognition of pregnancy (days 10‐12), PPARγ ligands inhibited the expression of NF‐κB, and they differentially affected the expression of mRNA and proteins of cytokines.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that PPARγ is engaged in the endometrial synthesis of NF‐κB and selected cytokines in pigs. The influence of PPARγ ligands on the tested components of the immune system varied subject to the physiological status of females, and it could be associated with differences in endometrial receptivity.
The role of interleukins in preeclampsia: A comprehensive review
Authors: Bellos Ioannis , Karageorgiou Vasilios , Kapnias Dimitrios , Karamanli Konstantina‐Eleni , Siristatidis Charalampos
Published: September 2018

Preeclampsia is a multi‐system hypertensive disorder of pregnancy, with significant rates of maternal and neonatal morbidity. It represents a major cause of preterm birth, as definitive treatment demands fetal delivery. Although its pathophysiology is complicated, placental hypoxia and endothelial dysfunction constitute established pathogenetic steps of the disease. Inflammation is considered to be a crucial mediator of preeclampsia process, as an imbalance between TH1, TH2, and TH17 immune responses is observed. The present review accumulates current knowledge about the contribution of interleukins in preeclampsia, summarizing the pathways through which each interleukin exerts its function in the disease. Also, the role of genetic polymorphisms is explored and the predictive efficacy of maternal serum interleukin levels is evaluated. Finally, recommendations about the safe interpretation of the outcomes, as well as guidance for future research, are provided.
Ischemic QRS prolongation as a biomarker of myocardial injury in STEMI patients
Authors: Almer Jakob , Elmberg Viktor , Bränsvik Josef , Nordlund David , Khoshnood Ardavan , Ringborn Michael , Carlsson Marcus , Ekelund Ulf , Engblom Henrik
Published: September 2018

Background

Patients with acute coronary occlusion (ACO) may not only have ischemia‐related ST‐segment changes but also changes in the QRS complex. It has recently been shown in dogs that a greater ischemic QRS prolongation (IQP) during ACO is related to lower collateral flow. This suggests that greater IQP could indicate more severe ischemia and thereby more rapid infarct development. Therefore, the purpose was to evaluate the relationship between IQP and measures of myocardial injury in patients presenting with acute ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Methods

Seventy‐seven patients with first‐time STEMI were retrospectively included from the recently published SOCCER trial. All patients underwent a cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) examination 2–6 days after the acute event. Infarct size (IS), myocardium at risk (MaR), and myocardial salvage index (MSI) were assessed and related to IQP. IQP measures assessed were; computer‐generated QRS duration, QRS duration at maximum ST deviation, absolute IQP and relative IQP, all derived from a pre‐PCI, 12‐lead ECG.

Results

Median absolute IQP was 10 ms (range 0–115 ms). There were no statistically significant correlations between measures of IQP and any of the CMR measures of myocardial injury (absolute IQP vs IS, r = 0.03, p = 0.80; MaR, r = −0.01, p = 0.89; MSI, r = −0.05, p = 0.68).

Conclusions

Unlike previous experimental studies, the IQP was limited in patients presenting at the emergency room with first‐time STEMI and no correlation was found between IQP and CMR variables of myocardial injury in these patients. Therefore, IQP does not seem to be a suitable biomarker for triaging patients in this clinical context.
Combining noninvasive risk stratification parameters improves the prediction of mortality and appropriate ICD shocks
Authors: Vandenberk Bert , Junttila M. Juhani , Robyns Tomas , Garweg Christophe , Ector Joris , Huikuri Heikki V. , Willems Rik
Published: September 2018

Background

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) results from a complex interplay of abnormalities in autonomic function, myocardial substrate and vulnerability. We studied whether a combination of noninvasive risk stratification tests reflecting these key players could improve risk stratification.

Methods

Patients implanted with an ICD in whom 24‐hr holter recordings were available prior to implant were included. QRS fragmentation (fQRS) was selected as measure of myocardial substrate and a high ventricular premature beat count (VPB >10/hr) for arrhythmic vulnerability. From receiver operating characteristics analysis, detrended fluctuation analysis (DFA), turbulence slope, and deceleration capacity were selected for autonomic function. Adjusted Cox regression analysis with comparison of C‐statistics was performed to predict first appropriate shock (AS) and total mortality.

Results

A total of 220 patients were included in the analysis with an overall follow‐up of 4.3 ± 3.1 years. A model including VPB >10/hr, inferior fQRS, and abnormal nonedited DFA was the best for prediction of AS after 1 year of follow‐up with a trends toward improvement of the C‐statistics compared to baseline (p = 0.055). The risk increased significantly with every abnormal test (HR 1.793, 95%CI 1.255–2.564). A model including fQRS in any region and abnormal edited DFA was the best for prediction of mortality after 3 years of follow‐up with significant improvement of the C‐statistics (p = 0.023). Each abnormal test was associated with a significant increase in mortality (HR 5.069, 95%CI 1.978–12.994).

Conclusion

Combining noninvasive risk stratification tests according to their physiological background can improve the risk prediction of SCD and mortality.
Multi‐sited research methodology: Improving understanding of transnational concepts
Authors: Jokela‐Pansini Maaret
Published: September 2018

Research at multiple sites and “talking across worlds” have generally been important in feminist and geographic scholarship. Some studies have examined methodological dilemmas endemic to research involving multiple locations. Other studies have drawn on multi‐sited research including perspectives of participants and researchers beyond a single site. Most of these studies have explored how groups, individuals and discourses move between local and transnational spaces. However, evidence on how such methodologies improve our understanding of transnational concepts is still scarce. This paper draws on two research projects on women's human rights activism in Honduras and South Africa and explores how multi‐sited research improved the understanding of “women human rights defenders.” In Honduras, activists in various women's groups have identified themselves as women human rights defenders since the coup d’état in 2009. This identity enabled them to integrate women's rights into a broader international human rights agenda. In South Africa, activists mostly use the term to influence decision‐making at international organisations and to build alliances with activists globally. This multi‐sited research reveals that women's human rights concepts are not “given.” Rather, activists’ lived experiences on multiple scales shape the way they understand and “translate” such concepts.
Short‐term and midterm outcomes of single‐incision laparoscopic surgery for right‐sided colon cancer
Authors: Ishii Yoshiyuki , Yahagi Masashi , Ochiai Hiroki , Sako Hiroyuki , Amemiya Ryusuke , Maeda Hinako , Ogiri Masayo , Kamiya Noriki , Watanabe Masahiko
Published: September 2018

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to clarify the usefulness of SILS for right‐sided colon cancer by evaluating the short‐term and midterm outcomes.

Methods

Between 2012 and 2017, 65 selected patients with right‐sided colon cancer underwent ileocecal resection, right hemicolectomy, or transverse colectomy; all were enrolled in the study. The same well‐trained surgeon performed each procedure by using a multi‐instrument access port with three channels, which was placed at the umbilicus via an approximately 3‐cm skin incision.

Results

The pathological disease stage distribution was stage 0, 4 cases; stage I, 23 cases; stage II, 19 cases; stage III, 17 cases; and stage IV, 2 cases. The surgical procedures performed were ileocecal resection, 23 cases; right hemicolectomy, 35 cases; and transverse colectomy, 7 cases. The median operative time and intraoperative blood loss were 216 min and 10 mL, respectively. Although 18 cases needed additional ports, none required conversion to open surgery. The median number of harvested lymph nodes was 24. No major perioperative morbidities occurred in this patient series. The median postoperative hospital stay was 7 days. The median follow‐up period was 30 months, and the 3‐year relapse‐free and overall survival rates were 100% and 100%, respectively, in the stage 0–I cases and 89% and 96% in the stage II–III cases, respectively.

Conclusion

We concluded that SILS is as feasible as multiport laparoscopic surgery and a reliable surgical option in selected cases of right‐sided colon cancer.
Design, synthesis, and antiplasmodial evaluation of a series of novel sulfoximine analogues of carbohydrate‐based thiochromans
Authors: Chizema Munashe , Mabasa Tommy F. , Hoppe Heinrich C. , Kinfe Henok H.
Published: September 2018

Sulfone/sulfoxide‐containing carbohydrate derived thiochromans were found to be highly active antiplasmodial agents. However, the inability of the sulfone/sulfoxide functional groups for further derivatization and manipulation limited the potential for further exploration. In this study, based on the interesting and important physicochemical properties, as well as amenability of sulfoximines (isosters of sulfones) for further derivatization, a series of novel sulfoximine‐type carbohydrate‐derived thiochroman derivatives have been successfully synthesized, characterized, and evaluated for their antiplasmodial activity. Although the replacement of the sulfone functional group with a sulfoximine unit improved the antiplasmodial activity of the scaffolds, the activity was highly dependent on the configuration of the stereogenic centre at the sulfur atom. Moreover, analysis of the crystal structures of the sulfoximine analogues revealed that the bond between the sulfur and nitrogen atoms of the sulfoximine functional group is not a true double bond but rather a polarized single bond.
Recognition of the discipline of conservation mycology
Authors: May Tom W. , Cooper Jerry A. , Dahlberg Anders , Furci Giuliana , Minter David W. , Mueller Gregory M. , Pouliot Alison , Yang Zhuliang
Published: September 2018

Article impact statement: Conservation mycology is a newly introduced discipline relevant to conservation biologists, mycologists, ecologists, and conservation policy.
Allergic contact dermatitis caused by medical devices for diabetes patients: A review
Authors: Herman Anne , de Montjoye Laurence , Tromme Isabelle , Goossens An , Baeck Marie
Published: September 2018

Allergic contact dermatitis caused by medical devices for diabetes patients has been increasingly described in the literature in the last few years. This article reviews the cases of allergic contact dermatitis caused by insulin pumps and glucose sensors reported since the 1970s, the culprit allergen(s), the results of patch tests and/or chromatographic analysis, and preventive measures.
Increased expression of interleukin‐9 in patients with allergic contact dermatitis caused by p‐phenylenediamine
Authors: Baeck Marie , Herman Anne , de Montjoye Laurence , Hendrickx Emilie , Chéou Paméla , Cochez Perrine M. , Dumoutier Laure
Published: September 2018

Background

Allergic contact dermatitis has been described as a type IV reaction caused by antigen‐specific T cells. Central roles for CD8+ cytotoxic T cells as effector cells and CD4+ T cells as regulatory cells have been suggested. T helper (Th) 2 and Th1 cytokines have been implicated; however, the nature of the allergen influences the Th response.

Objective

To determine the types of T cells and cytokines expressed in patients allergic to p‐phenylenediamine (PPD).

Methods

Serial skin biopsies of areas with positive patch test reactions in 29 PPD‐sensitized patients were collected. T cell markers and cytokine expression were analysed by flow cytometry and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction in both skin and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of sensitized patients.

Results

We observed increased expression of T cell markers and Th2/Th9‐associated cytokines in both skin and stimulated PBMCs of PPD‐allergic patients. Moreover, interleukin (IL)‐9 was mainly produced by Th9 cells, in both skin and PBMCs. Further investigations showed that Il9r‐deficient mice were more affected in a PPD contact hypersensitivity model than wild‐type mice.

Conclusion

We did not confirm the preclinical presence of CD8+ T cells. However, the expression of different T cell markers positively correlated with patch test reactions. IL‐9 expression was strongly upregulated and directly related to patch test severity. In addition, we showed that IL‐9 has an anti‐inflammatory role in a mouse model of PPD contact hypersensitivity.
Social Network Limits Language Complexity
Authors: Lou‐Magnuson Matthew , Onnis Luca
Published: September 2018

Natural languages vary widely in the degree to which they make use of nested compositional structure in their grammars. It has long been noted by linguists that the languages historically spoken in small communities develop much deeper levels of compositional embedding than those spoken by larger groups. Recently, this observation has been confirmed by a robust statistical analysis of the World Atlas of Language Structures. In order to examine this connection mechanistically, we propose an agent‐based model that accounts for key cultural evolutionary features of language transfer and language change. We identify transitivity as a physical parameter of social networks critical for the evolution of compositional structure and the hierarchical patterning of scale‐free distributions as inhibitory.
Chest physiotherapy with early mobilization may improve extubation outcome in critically ill patients in the intensive care units
Authors: Wang Tsung‐Hsien , Wu Chin‐Pyng , Wang Li‐Ying
Published: September 2018

Background

Extubation failure can lead to a longer intensive care unit (ICU) stay, higher mortality rate, and higher risk of requiring tracheostomy. Chest physiotherapy (CPT) can help patients in reducing the accumulation of airway secretion, preventing collapsed lung, improving lung compliance, and reducing comorbidities. Much research has investigated the correlation between CPT and respiratory system clearance. However, few studies have investigated the correlation between CPT and failed ventilator extubation. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the use of CPT for reducing the rate of failed removal from mechanical ventilators.

Methods

This study was an intervention study with mechanical control. Subjects were divided into two groups. The control group, which received routine nursing chest care, was selected from a retrospective chart review. The intervention group was prospectively taken into the chest physiotherapy program. The chest physiotherapy treatment protocol consisted of inspiratory muscle training, manual hyperinflation, chest wall mobilization, secretion removal, cough function training, and early mobilization.

Results

A total of 439 subjects were enrolled in the intervention and control groups, with a mean age of 69 years. APACHE II score (P = .09) and GCS scores (P = .54) were similar between the two groups. Compared to the control group, patients in the intervention group had a significantly lower reintubation rate (8% vs 16%; P = .01).

Conclusions

The results indicate that intensive chest physiotherapy could decrease extubation failure in mechanically ventilated patients in the ICU. In addition, chest physiotherapy could also significantly improve the rapid shallow breathing index score.
Reduced display of conformational epitopes in the N‐terminal truncated GAD65 isoform: relevance for people with stiff person syndrome or DQ8/8‐positive Type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Hampe C. S. , Radtke J. R. , Wester A. , Carlsson A. , Cedervall E. , Jönsson B. , Ivarsson S. A. , Elding Larsson H. , Larsson K. , Lindberg B. , Neiderud J. , Rolandsson O. , Lernmark Å.
Published: September 2018

Aims

To investigate whether the N‐terminal truncated glutamic acid decarboxylase 65 (GAD65) isoform is as well recognized by people with stiff person syndrome as it is by people with Type 1 diabetes, and whether conformational GAD65 antibody epitopes are displayed properly by the isoform.

Methods

GAD65 antibody‐positive healthy individuals (n=13), people with stiff‐person syndrome (n=15) and children with new‐onset Type 1 diabetes (n=654) were analysed to determine binding to full‐length GAD65 and the N‐terminal truncated GAD65 isoform in each of these settings. GAD65 autoantibody epitope specificity was correlated with binding ratios of full‐length GAD65/N‐terminal truncated GAD65.

Results

The N‐terminal truncated GAD65 isoform was significantly less recognized in GAD65Ab‐positive people with stiff‐person syndrome (P=0.002) and in healthy individuals (P=0.0001) than in people with Type 1 diabetes. Moreover, at least two specific conformational GAD65Ab epitopes were not, or were only partially, presented by the N‐terminal truncated GAD65 isoform compared to full‐length GAD65. Finally, an N‐terminal conformational GAD65Ab epitope was significantly less recognized in DQ8/8 positive individuals with Type 1 diabetes (P=0.02).

Conclusions

In people with stiff person syndrome preferred binding to the full‐length GAD65 isoform over the N‐terminal truncated molecule was observed. This binding characteristic is probably attributable to reduced presentation of two conformational epitopes by the N‐terminal truncated molecule. These findings support the notion of disease‐specific GAD65Ab epitope specificities and emphasize the need to evaluate the applicability of novel assays for different medical conditions.
Transnational business feminism: Exporting feminism in the global economy
Authors: Fodor Éva , Glass Christy , Nagy Beáta
Published: September 2018

Business feminism is a brand of feminism that privileges women's advancement in the corporate hierarchy and centres corporations as the ultimate purveyors of gender equity. While scholars have critiqued this formulation, little empirical research has analysed the processes that guide the dissemination and translation of business feminism in organizational settings within global corporate networks. This article advances scholarship on the global processes that drive the export of business feminism logics. We analyse the process of dissemination of business feminism from the headquarters of multinational corporations to corporate hubs located in Hungary. This process relies on women executives who are charged with translating policies and practices originating in the headquarters of western corporations. In‐depth interviews with women executives charged with implementing corporate policies reveal the ways in which business feminism is interpreted, modified and/or resisted by actors within organizational settings.
Varieties of hybrid systemic governance in European Higher Education
Authors: Capano Giliberto , Pritoni Andrea
Published: September 2018

Over the last 30 years, governments have continuously adjusted their Higher Education policies to make universities more efficient (achieving more by spending less) and more effective (by increasing the percentage of graduates, by reducing the number of university dropouts and by focusing more on the third mission). At the core of governmental endeavours to reform Higher Education lies the redesign of the actual governance mode: governments have not only changed the general principles of Higher Education governance but also continuously changed the mix of those policy instruments they have chosen to adopt. The steering at a distance/supervisory/supermarket model appears to be unable to cover these differentiated trends; in fact, scholars have underlined that each country has designed its own hybrid interpretation of the common template. This paper focuses on this issue, describing how governance has been hybridised at the systemic level and detailing the content of these changes, operationalised with regards to policy instruments together with two financial dimensions. It emerges that three types of hybrid systemic governance modes are actually present in Europe: a performance‐based mode, a re‐regulated mode and a systemic goal‐oriented mode.
Broccoli leaf powder as an attractive by‐product ingredient: effect on batter behaviour, technological properties and sensory quality of gluten‐free mini sponge cake
Authors: Krupa‐Kozak Urszula , Drabińska Natalia , Rosell Cristina M. , Fadda Costantino , Anders Andrzej , Jeliński Tomasz , Ostaszyk Anita
Published: September 2018

Broccoli by‐products, in particular leaves, are rich sources of nutritional and bioactive components thus could constitute a valuable food additive. Although an upsurge in quantity of gluten‐free products is observed further studies are required on improvement of their nutritional quality and palatability. This study aimed to investigate the influence of broccoli leaf powder (BLP) on dough behaviour, and technological characteristics and sensory quality of gluten‐free mini sponge cake (GFS). Broccoli leaf powder replaced an equivalent amount (2.5%, 5%, 7.5%; w/w) of corn and potato starches in GFS formulation. Applied BLP increased the instrumental firmness of GFS but sensorial attributes (elasticity, crustiness, mastication and adhesiveness) were similar to the control. All broccoli GFS were vividly green, had small size pores properly distributed. Among them, sample with 2.5% BLP was distinguished for its desirable sensory quality, despite a slightly perceived cabbage aroma and taste. Moderate amount of BLP allows to preserve a good quality GFS improving its attractiveness and palatability.
A newly developed tetraplex real‐time RT‐PCR for simultaneous screening of influenza virus types A, B, C and D
Authors: Henritzi Dinah , Hoffmann Bernd , Wacheck Silke , Pesch Stefan , Herrler Georg , Beer Martin , Harder Timm C.
Published: September 2018

Background

Human‐ or avian‐to‐swine transmissions have founded several autonomously circulating influenza A virus (IAV) lineages in swine populations that cause economically important respiratory disease. Little is known on other human influenza virus types, like B (IBV) and C (ICV) in European swine, and of the recently detected novel animal influenza virus type D (IDV).

Objectives

Development of a cost‐effective diagnostic tool for large‐scale surveillance programmes targeting all four influenza virus types.

Methods

An influenza ABCD tetraplex real‐time RT‐PCR (RT‐qPCR) was developed in the frame of this study. A selection of reference virus strains and more than 4000 porcine samples from a passive IAV surveillance programme in European swine with acute respiratory disease were examined.

Results

Two IBV, a single IDV but no ICV infections were identified by tetraplex RT‐qPCR. IBV and IDV results were confirmed by conventional RT‐PCR and partial sequence analysis.

Conclusions

The tetraplex RT‐qPCR proved fit for purpose as a sensitive, specific and high‐throughput tool to study influenza virus transmission at the human‐animal interface. Complementing close‐meshed active virological and serological surveillance is required to better understand the true incidence and prevalence of influenza virus type B, C and D infections in swine.
Long Sleep Duration: An Epiphenomenon or a Risk for Dementia?
Authors: Nagai Michiaki , Dote Keigo , Kato Masaya , Kario Kazuomi
Published: September 2018

See the Reply by Tomoyuki Ohara et al
Medicare's Variation in Out‐of‐Pocket Costs for Prescriptions: The Irrational Examples of In‐Hospital Observation and Home Infusion
Authors: Wright Brad , Dusetzina Stacie B. , Upchurch Gina
Published: September 2018

The Medicare program pays for prescription drugs using several different—and often complicated—methods. As hospital‐based treatment continues to shift from inpatient care to outpatient observation status, and as intravenous infusions continue to shift from hospitals and provider offices into the home, understanding Medicare's prescription drug benefits is increasingly confusing to providers and beneficiaries. Not only is it sometimes difficult to determine whether coverage is provided under Medicare Part A, Part B, or Part D, but this determination also has consequences for Medicare beneficiaries’ out‐of‐pocket spending, which may be higher in certain situations. Although Medicare may be a single payer, the “system” of payment varies depending on where beneficiaries receive treatment; what their income and assets are; whether they are receiving inpatient, outpatient, or hospice services; and whether they are enrolled in original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage managed care plan. Policies are needed to address these anomalies in the design of Medicare prescription drug benefits and reduce the unjustified variation in out‐of‐pocket costs. J Am Geriatr Soc 66:2249–2253, 2018.