bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Syngeneic Transplants with Modified Chimeric Hematopoietic Tumors
Authors: Hemann Michael
Published: August 2015

This protocol describes strategies to rapidly transduce tumor cells ex vivo and then transplant modified cells into immunocompetent-recipient mice. Inherent in the definition of a bona fide murine hematopoietic malignancy, unlike a myelo- or lympho-proliferative disease, is the ability to transplant tumors and give rise to a malignancy in recipient animals. This characteristic of hematopoietic disease makes these tumors a tractable model for examining the role of specific genes in tumor growth, dissemination, or therapeutic response. Additionally, because of the systemic nature of hematopoietic malignancies, transplanted tumors are frequently pathologically indistinguishable from donor malignancies—allowing one to perform decisive therapy studies on large cohorts of transplant recipients. Finally, following ex vivo manipulation, transplanted tumors can be made chimeric for the presence of defined retrovirally induced alterations. Thus, these malignancies can be made to resemble genetically heterogeneous human tumors that are in the process of acquiring new capabilities. In these experiments, fluorescent markers serve as a surrogate marker for the expression of a defined alteration, and the change in the percentage of fluorescent cells in a tumor population over time or in response to therapy can be used to gauge the impact of specific alterations on tumor behavior.
Deep Mutational Scanning: A Highly Parallel Method to Measure the Effects of Mutation on Protein Function
Authors: Starita Lea M. , Fields Stanley
Published: August 2015

Deep mutational scanning is a method that makes use of next-generation sequencing technology to measure in a single experiment the activity of 105 or more unique variants of a protein. Because of this depth of mutational coverage, this strategy provides data that can be analyzed to reveal many protein properties. Deep mutational scanning approaches are particularly amenable to being performed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, given the extensive toolkit of reagents and technologies available for this organism.
A new one-dimensional coordination polymer of 5-(1,3-dioxo-4,5,6,7-tetraphenylisoindolin-2-yl)isophthalic acid with manganese
Authors: Wang Jing , Jia Chunmei , Feng Xiao , Yuan Wenbing
Published: August 2015

The coordination polymercatena-poly[[(dimethylformamide-κO)[μ3-5-(1,3-dioxo-4,5,6,7-tetraphenylisoindolin-2-yl)isophthalato-κ4O1,O1′:O3:O3′](methanol-κO)manganese(III)] dimethylformamide monosolvate], {[Mn(C40H23NO6)(CH3OH)(C3H7NO)]·C3H7NO}n, has been synthesized from the reaction of 5-(1,3-dioxo-4,5,6,7-tetraphenylisoindolin-2-yl)isophthalic acid and manganese(II) acetate tetrahydrate in a glass tube at room temperature by solvent diffusion. The MnIIcentre is hexacoordinated by two O atoms from one chelating carboxylate group, by two O atoms from two monodentate carboxylate groups and by one O atom each from a methanol and a dimethylformamide (DMF) ligand. The single-crystal structure crystallizes in the triclinic space groupP\overline{1}. Moreover, the coordination polymer shows one-dimensional 2-connected {0} uninodal chain networks, and free DMF molecules are connected to the chains by O—H...O hydrogen bonds. The thermogravimetric and photoluminescent properties of the compound have also been investigated.
A two-dimensional cadmium(II) coordination polymer based on 1-cyanomethyl-4-aza-1-azoniabicyclo[2.2.2]octane and thiocyanate ligands
Authors: Wang Hui-Ting , Li Qiang , Zhou Lin
Published: August 2015

A cadmium–thiocyanate complex, poly[(1-cyanomethyl-4-aza-1-azoniabicyclo[2.2.2]octane-κ4N)octakis-μ2-thiocyanato-κ8N:S;κ8S:N-tricadmium(II)], [Cd3(C8H14N3)2(NCS)8]n, was synthesized by the reaction of 1-cyanomethyl-4-aza-1-azoniabicyclo[2.2.2]octane chloride, cadmium nitrate tetrahydrate and potassium thiocyanide in aqueous solution. In the crystal structure, there are two independent types of CdIIcation (one on a centre of inversion and one in a general position) and both are in distorted octahedral coordination environments, coordinated by N and S atoms from different ligands. Neighbouring CdIIcations are linked together by thiocyanate bridges to form a two-dimensional network. Hydrogen-bonding interactions are involved in the formation of a three-dimensional supramolecular network.
Crystal structure of 2-methyl-N-{[2-(pyridin-2-yl)ethyl]carbamothioyl}benzamide
Authors: Ameram Nadiah , Adam Farook
Published: August 2015

In the title compound, C16H17N3OS, a benzoyl thiourea derivative, the planes of the pyridine and benzene rings are inclined to one another by 66.54 (9)°. There is an intramolecular N—H...O hydrogen bond present forming anS(6) ring motif. In the crystal, molecules are linkedviapairs of N—H...N hydrogen bonds, forming inversion dimers, which are reinforced by pairs of C—H...S hydrogen bonds. The dimers are linkedviaC—H...π interactions, forming ribbons along [010].
Crystal structure of 3-[4-(1H-imidazol-1-yl)phenyl]-2-(4-nitrophenyl)prop-2-enenitrile
Authors: Yu Ting-ting , Yang Ming-Di , Pi Jing-jing , Zhang Yu-Bin , Yu Jian-Hua
Published: August 2015

In the title compound, C18H12N4O2, which has a delocalizedD—π—Aelectronic structure, the dihedral angles between the central benzene ring and the planes of the pendant imidazole and nitrobenzene rings are 37.65 (9) and 4.96 (7)°, respectively. In the centrosymmetric crystal structure, molecules are linked by weak C—H...O interactions, generating [001]C(6) chains.
Crystal structure of bis[μ-1,2-bis(diphenylphosphanyl)ethane-κ2P:P′]bis[(N,N′-diethylthiourea-κS)iodidocopper(I)]
Authors: Khongsichan Ladawan , Nimthong-Roldán Arunpatcha , Pakawatchai Chaveng , Wongnawa Sumpun
Published: August 2015

The binuclear title complex, [Cu2I2(C26H24P2)2(C5H12N2S)2], lies about an inversion centre. The CuIatom displays a distorted tetrahedral coordination geometry defined by one S atom of anN,N′-diethylthiourea ligand, two P atoms derived from two bridging 1,2-bis(diphenylphosphanyl)ethane (dppe) ligands and one iodide ion. The dppe ligand bridges two symmetry-related CuIions, forming a 10-membered Cu2P4C4ring. An intramolecular N—H...I hydrogen bond is noted. In the crystal, N—H...I hydrogen bonds link complex molecules into layers parallel to (-101).
Crystal structure of 1,1′-{(pentane-1,5-diyl)bis[(azaniumylylidene)methanylylidene]}bis(naphthalen-2-olate)
Authors: Ouari Kamel , Merzougui Moufida , Karmazin Lydia
Published: August 2015

The whole molecule of the title compound, C27H26N2O2, is generated by twofold rotational symmetry, with the central C atom of the pentyl chain located on the twofold rotation axis. The compound crystallizes as a bis-zwitterion, and there are two intramolecular N—H...O hydrogen bonds generatingS(6) ring motifs. In the crystal, molecules are linked by pairs of C—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming ribbons propagating along [001], and enclosingR22(22) ring motifs.
Crystal structure of 3-amino-2-ethylquinazolin-4(3H)-one
Authors: El-Hiti Gamal A. , Smith Keith , Hegazy Amany S. , Baashen Mohammed , Kariuki Benson M.
Published: August 2015

The molecule of the title compound, C10H11N3O, is planar, including the ethyl group, as indicated by the N—C—C—C torsion angle of 1.5 (2)°. In the crystal, inversion-related molecules are stacked along theaaxis. Molecules are oriented head-to-tail and display π–π interactions with a centroid-to-centroid distance of 3.6664 (8) Å. N—H...O hydrogen bonds between molecules generate a `step' structure through formation of anR22(10) ring.
Public responses to a comprehensive smoking ban
Authors: Greenwald Howard P.
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to report public reactions to a total workplace smoking ban, including smoking behavior, attendance at bars and clubs, and attitudes toward a broader ban.

Design/methodology/approach

– Surveys were conducted in two adjacent jurisdictions, one of which instituted a total workplace smoking ban. Surveys took place before (n=1,609) and after (n=1,600) enactment of the ban in the relevant jurisdiction.

Findings

– No change in smoking prevalence occurred in the jurisdiction enacting the ban. Strong majorities of non-smokers supported the ban, while strong majorities of smokers expressed opposition. In the jurisdiction that enacted the ban, smokers who appeared to be high-volume consumers at bars and clubs were most likely to report reducing attendance at these establishments and to oppose the ban.

Research limitations/implications

– Surveys depend on accurate self-reporting of behavior and attitudes.

Practical implications

– Some bars and clubs may incur financial losses due to smoking bans. A core of strong opponents can undermine public consensus regarding smoking bans. Licensing a limited number of bars and clubs to allow smoking can safeguard this consensus.

Social implications

– Limited smoking bans can serve as a means of harm reduction, as non-smokers are protected from environmental tobacco smoke, and accommodation of smokers reduces their motivation to oppose bans.

Originality/value

– This investigation makes use of detailed data on the public’s thinking and reactions to a comprehensive smoking ban and is a before-after study with controls.
Survey of knowledge of legal highs (novel psychoactive substances) amongst London pharmacists
Authors: Guirguis Amira , Corkery John M. , Stair Jacqueline L. , Kirton Stewart , Zloh Mire , Goodair Christine M. , Schifano Fabrizio , Davidson Colin
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to determine pharmacists’ knowledge of legal highs (novel psychoactive substances (NPS)).

Design/methodology/approach

– A questionnaire was handed out at two London pharmacist continuing education events in mid-2014. These events update pharmacists about developments of interest/relevance to the profession and to improve their practice. A total of 54 forms were returned; a response rate of 26 percent.

Findings

– Most pharmacists had poor knowledge of NPS and many considered that NPS were not important to their work, with few having had to advise customers in this area. Despite this, the majority thought that they had insufficient information about NPS. There was a negative correlation between the age of the pharmacist and knowledge of NPS.

Research limitations/implications

– The sample is a self-selected one drawn from registered pharmacists working in community pharmacies in northwest London, and thus does not include hospital pharmacies. Self-selection means that respondents may only reflect those who are interested in the NPS phenomenon and not the wider pharmacy community. The geographical area covered may not be representative of London as a whole, or indeed other parts of the UK or other EU countries.

Practical implications

– It is clear that pharmacists do not know much about NPS but would like to know more. This information might improve their practice.

Social implications

– Pharmacists, easier to see than general practitioners, could be a useful source of information for NPS misusers.

Originality/value

– There have been no previous attempts to gauge the level of knowledge by pharmacists of legal highs/NPS in the UK or elsewhere to our knowledge.
Applying central pattern generators to control the robofish with oscillating pectoral fins
Authors: Cao Yong , Bi Shusheng , Cai Yueri , Wang Yuliang
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to develop a robofish with oscillating pectoral fins, and control it to mimic the bionic prototype by central pattern generators (CPGs).

Design/methodology/approach

– First, the oscillation characteristics of the cownose ray were analyzed quantitatively. Second, a robofish with multi-joint pectoral fins was developed according to the bionic morphology and kinematics. Third, the improved phase oscillator was established, which contains a spatial asymmetric coefficient and a temporal asymmetric coefficient. Moreover, the CPG network is created to mimic the cownose ray and accomplish three-dimensional (3D) motions. Finally, the experiments were done to test the authors ' works.

Findings

– The results demonstrate that the CPGs is effective to control the robofish to imitate the cownose ray realistically. In addition, the robofish is able to accomplish 3D motions of high maneuverability, and change among different swimming modes quickly and smoothly.

Originality/value

– The research provides the method to develop a robofish from both 3D morphology and kinematics. The motion analysis and CPG control make sure that the robofish has the features of high maneuverability and camouflage. It is useful for military underwater applications and underwater detections in narrow environments. Second, this work lays the foundation for the autonomous 3D control. Moreover, the robotic fish can be taken as a scientific tool for the fluid bionics research.
Impact of ERP systems usage on organizational agility
Authors: Aburub Faisal
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems can be considered as cornerstone that allows most organizations to achieve their business goals. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of ERP system usage on agility in organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

– The data were collected from 90 branches of well-known banks in the Middle East, such as HSBC, Standard Chartered and Arab Bank. Data were analyzed using a path analysis methodology.

Findings

– A new model has been developed. An empirical investigation was performed on the banking sector in the Middle East to test the new model. Despite the results showing that the impact of ERP system usage on banks’ agility is significant, the variance of banks’ agility that is explained by the use of ERP systems is weak. This indicates that ERP usage may not influence sufficiently the current agility drivers in Middle-Eastern banks and that there may be other significant variables that contribute to agility in the banking sector.

Research limitations/implications

– The findings of this research were based on a survey conducted among banks in the Middle East. The results are applicable in Middle-Eastern banks, but may not be applicable in other regions.

Practical implications

– Banking practitioners in the Middle East should be aware that successful implementation of ERP systems may not lead to the achievement of sufficient competency, flexibility, quickness, and responsiveness. Hence, such implementation may not deliver banking agility.

Originality/value

– This research model investigates the impact of ERP usage on the agility of banks in the Middle East.
Sending mobile messages to different social ties in modern urban life
Authors: Cho Vincent , Hung Humphry
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effectiveness of mobile messaging for the purposes of information sharing and social networking based on the types of social ties involved. The authors identify two psychological traits in the model: perceived time shortages (TSs) and anxiety trait. These traits can influence individuals’ mobile-messaging usage by facilitating users’ connections to different social ties in modern urban life.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors distributed questionnaires at random on the streets of certain densely populated areas in Hong Kong to young urbanites, who are the dominant users of technological social media. The authors collected 492 valid responses, which the authors analysed via multivariate regression analysis.

Findings

– Mobile messages are more effectively used to share information within strongly tied groups rather than weakly tied groups. However, there is little difference between weakly and strongly connected groups in terms of the perceived effectiveness of mobile messages used for social networking. Anxious people are more inclined to send mobile messages to individuals with whom they have weak ties, and people who perceived TSs send more mobile messages to individuals with whom they have strong ties.

Research limitations/implications

– The rapid nature of information and communication technology has enabled new “richer” forms of mobile media. For instance, WhatsApp allows people to attach images and other multimedia files to their messages, and WeChat provides a location-sharing service that enables users to meet new people based on their friendship preferences. Future studies should examine this trend.

Originality/value

– This study contributes to the literature by elaborating the mobile-messaging behaviour of urban citizens who are anxious and perceive TSs within strongly and weakly connected social groups.
Knowledge management implementation, business process, and market relationship outcomes
Authors: Hung Shin-Yuan , Tsai Jacob Chia-An , Lee Wen-Ting , Chau Patrick Y.K.
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– Prior studies examine the relationship between knowledge management (KM) enablers and KM effectiveness. However, the critical role of business process outcome is neglected. The purpose of this paper is to understand the mediating effect of business process outcomes. Based on knowledge-based view (KBV), two KM enabler variables, KM infrastructure (KMI) and KM capabilities (KMC), and one KM effectiveness variable, market relationships, are included.

Design/methodology/approach

– A survey was conducted. The sampling frame was obtained from the database of the Bureau of National Health Insurance and Financial Supervisory Commission in Taiwan. After unusable questionnaires excluded, the usable respondents were 256 which are from 63 hospitals and 93 financial firms. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the relationships among KMI, KMC, business process outcome, and market relationships.

Findings

– The findings indicated that both KMI and KMC have positive influences on market relationships through business process outcome. The authors also demonstrate how KMI and KMC improve market relationships through business process outcome to deliver the value of KM.

Originality/value

– Based on KBV, KMI and KMC are as KM enablers to facilitate KM activities. In the light of professional service industries (i.e. hospitals and financial firms), the study highlights the mediating effect of business process outcomes between KM enablers and KM effectiveness. It furthers the understanding of how KM enablers can improve KM effectiveness.
Marketing sustainability in the luxury lodging industry: a thematic analysis of preferences amongst the Indian transition generation
Authors: Rishi Meghna , Jauhari Vinnie , Joshi Gaurav
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to identify emerging themes that can help in understanding the preferences of Indian consumers, in the transition generation (25-44 years) (Sinha, 2011), toward sustainability in the luxury lodging industry.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper uses a multi-method approach for data collection. Thorough literature review and personal interviews with marketers were conducted to explore the themes and construct tentative thematic webs. In total, 42 customer inputs were drawn through focus groups and personal interviews to validate the themes. Customer perspective, marketers’ perspective and findings from literature were juxtaposed to understand the themes.

Findings

– “Influence of Parents, Children and Travel agents”, “Rewards for green behaviour” and “frequent communication around sustainability efforts” have been identified as some of the key motivations for consumers to choose sustainability. Some deterrents have been identified as “limited awareness about sustainability issues in Tier II cities”, “detachment with the hotel’s operations”, “higher prices” and “unchecked wasteful/acquisitive consumption”.

Practical implications

– Findings from this research work have implications for the practitioners and policy-makers because establishing an understanding of the factors that deter and motivate consumers for engaging in green behavior is important for designing meaningful marketing strategies.

Originality/value

– Findings are based on the analysis of data from customer inputs and industry inputs. Themes in this research work have been analytically identified, and this study has made significant academic contributions to the marketing literature. It also provides valuable insights for the practitioners.
Issuers’ credit risk and pricing of warrants in the recent financial crisis
Authors: Schertler Andrea , Stoerch Saskia
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether factor sensitivities of margins of bank-issued warrants depend on issuers’ credit risk during the period of economic turmoil between January 2008 and June 2010.

Design/methodology/approach

– Therefore, first, Fama–MacBeth estimations were applied and it was demonstrate that the sensitivities of margins in terms of time to maturity and moneyness vary substantially over time; the average outcomes are similar to the results of classical pooled estimations.

Findings

– Then, time-series tests were used and it was found that the steepness of the issuers’ credit default swap (CDS) spread curves correlates negatively with the time-to-maturity sensitivities as well as with the explanatory power of Fama–MacBeth estimations.

Research limitations/implications

– These findings indicate that the life-cycle hypothesis is weakened when the issuers’ CDS spread curves become steeper.

Originality/value

– Thus, this study offers a new approach to gain insights into the role of issuers’ credit risk on price setting behavior.
Innovative public-private partnership to support Smart City: the case of “Chaire REVES”
Authors: Dupont Laurent , Morel Laure , Guidat Claudine
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to discuss how French universities can play a key role in generating Smart City (SC) through an innovative Public-Private Partnership (PPP) dedicated to urban transformation.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors led an action-research study for five years with several research and pedagogic projects, including users or citizens.

Findings

– The paper points out main factors of SC development. It also presents shared demonstrators’ characteristics, including industrial scale, sustainability, and citizens’ participation.

Research limitations/implications

– This research is experimented with only one regional multi-case study.

Practical implications

– Practical implications of this paper include a University of Lorraine diversification strategy through the “Chaire REVES” supported by public and private partners.

Social implications

– At the regional level, industrial-university-territorial partnerships could tackle both societal and economical issues “with,” “for,” and “by” citizens.

Originality/value

– Based on the Living Lab concept, this case study shows a concrete regional university strategy involving: user-centric design, collaborative processes, citizens’ workshops, and new financial and organizational answers enabling collaboration between private companies and public institutions. The paper also argues that innovative PPPs involving users are necessary for developing SC.
A study of plane wave and fundamental solution in the theory of microstretch thermoelastic diffusion solid with phase-lag models
Authors: Kumar Rajneesh , Ahuja Sanjeev , Garg S.K.
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to study of propagation of plane wave and the fundamental solution of the system of differential equations in the theory of a microstretch thermoelastic diffusion medium in phase-lag models for the case of steady oscillations in terms of elementary functions.

Design/methodology/approach

– Wave propagation technique along with the numerical methods for computation using MATLAB software has been applied to investigate the problem.

Findings

– Characteristics of waves like phase velocity and attenuation coefficient are computed numerically and depicted graphically. It is found that due to the presence of diffusion effect, these characteristics get influenced significantly. However, due to decoupling of CD-I and CD-II waves from rest of other, no effect on these characteristics can be perceived.

Originality/value

– Basic properties of the fundamental solution are established by introducing the dual-phase-lag diffusion (DPLD) and dual-phase-lag heat transfer (DPLT) models.
Electronic-word-of-mouth performance in different psychological distances and familiarity
Authors: Tan Wee-Kheng , Chang Yun-Ghang
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to use a familiarity and psychological distance framework to investigate the effects of psychological distance (responsibility distance and temporal distance) and destination familiarity on electronic-word-of-mouth (eWOM) consumption in the tourism context. The performance of eWOM is compared with that of traditional-word-of-mouth (tWOM) and the web site of the destination marketing organisation (DMO).

Design/methodology/approach

– An experiment approach was used to collect the relevant data. For each of the eight scenarios generated by varying psychological distance dimensions and destination familiarity levels, 200 participants rated the extent that they would use eWOM, tWOM and the DMO web site to search for attraction and local transport information. The data were analysed using 2×2×2 within-subject ANOVA and t-test.

Findings

– The analysis highlighted the versatility of eWOM in different psychological distances and familiarity levels. By and large, eWOM performs better than the DMO web site but is on par with tWOM. The advantages of eWOM over tWOM are meaningful under certain circumstances. Despite sharing a common psychological basis, psychological distance dimensions affect information search differently, and the effects are shaped by the types of tourism products being searched. When psychological distance, destination familiarity, tourism products and information sources are considered in totality, a complex picture of their relationship with intensity of information search is shown.

Originality/value

– This study bridged the research gap by increasing our understanding of the performance of eWOM under different psychological distances and familiarity levels. The study also provides some suggestions for DMOs to leverage on eWOM and to improve the standing of DMO web site as a tourism information source.
Developing and validating a total quality management model for healthcare organisations
Authors: Mosadeghrad Ali Mohammad
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to develop a total quality management (TQM) model for healthcare organisations and validate it using a sample of Iranian healthcare organisations.

Design/methodology/approach

– A validated questionnaire was used to collect data from all healthcare organisations that implemented TQM in Isfahan province, Iran.

Findings

– Using the proposed model, TQM implementation was measured in healthcare organisations. The level of TQM success in Isfahan healthcare organisations was medium. The highest score was achieved in the dimension of “customer management”, followed by “leadership” and “employee management”. Employee management, information management, customer management, process management and leadership had the most positive effect on TQM success. Using a series of quality management techniques had “synergistic” effect on TQM success.

Practical implications

– Top management support, effective management of human resources, full involvement of the entire workforce including physicians, education and training, team working, continuous improvement, a corporate quality culture, customer focus and using a combination of management techniques under a quality management system are necessary for TQM successful implementation.

Originality/value

– A healthcare context-specific model of TQM was developed and tested and suggestions were provided for its successful implementation.
Rapid human‐induced divergence of life‐history strategies in Bahamian livebearing fishes (family Poeciliidae)
Authors: Riesch Rüdiger , Easter Tara , Layman Craig A. , Langerhans Randall Brian
Published: August 2015

Human‐induced rapid environmental change (HIREC) can have dramatic impacts on ecosystems, leading to rapid trait changes in some organisms and extinction in others. Such changes in traits signify that human actions can lead to cases of increased phenotypic diversity and consequently can strongly impact population‐, community‐ and ecosystem‐level dynamics.

Here, we examine whether the ecological consequences of habitat fragmentation have led to changes in the life histories of three native species of mosquitofish (Gambusia spp.) inhabiting tidal creeks on six different Bahamian islands. We address two important questions: (i) How predictable and parallel are life‐history changes in response to HIREC across islands and species, and (ii) what is the relative importance of shared (i.e. parallel) responses to fragmentation, differences between species or islands and species‐ or island‐specific responses to fragmentation?

Phenotypic differences between fragmentation regimes were as great or greater than differences between species or islands. While some adult life histories (lean weight and fat content) showed strong, shared responses to fragmentation, offspring‐related life histories (embryo fat and fecundity) exhibited idiosyncratic, island‐specific responses. While shared responses to fragmentation appeared largely driven by a reduction in piscivorous fish density, increased conspecific density and changes in salinity, we found some evidence that among‐population variation in male reproductive investment and embryo fat content may have arisen via variation in conspecific density.

Our results suggest that phenotypic responses to HIREC can be complex, with the predictability of response varying across traits. We therefore emphasize the need for more theoretical and empirical work to better understand the predictability of phenotypic responses to human‐induced disturbances.
Treatment, deterrence or labelling: mentally disordered offenders’ perspectives on social control
Authors: Dixon Jeremy
Published: August 2015

Mentally disordered offenders are a group of service users who experience substantial amounts of control and supervision. This article uses theories of social control to analyse the way in which mechanisms of control are understood by this group. Semi‐structured interviews with mentally disordered offenders in England who were subject to a restriction order under the Mental Health Act 1983 (as amended by the Mental Health Act 2007) provided the empirical basis for this study. The offenders had a number of perspectives on the restriction order. Firstly, it was seen as a mechanism for identifying those suffering from a mental disorder and for providing appropriate treatment. Secondly, the restriction order was viewed as a form of disciplinary control through which societal norms might be internalised. Thirdly, it was seen as labelling offenders in a manner that was experienced as limiting and oppressive. A number of research participants were aware that the order acted to limit staff actions. These participants saw the order as a means by which they might shape the support that they received in order to further their own aims.A video abstract of this article can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qwIwDI2sOTY&feature=youtu.be
Pharmaceutical direct‐to‐consumer advertising and US Hispanic patient‐consumers
Authors: Barker Kristin K. , Vasquez Guzman Cirila Estela
Published: August 2015

Hispanic Americans use prescription medications at markedly lower rates than do non‐Hispanic whites. At the same time, Hispanics are the largest racial‐ethnic minority in the USA. In a recent effort to reach this underdeveloped market, the pharmaceutical industry has begun to create Spanish‐language direct‐to‐consumer advertising (DTCA) campaigns. The substantive content of these campaigns is being tailored to appeal to the purported cultural values, beliefs and identities of Latino consumers. We compare English‐language and Spanish‐language television commercials for two prescription medications. We highlight the importance of selling medicine to a medically under‐served population as a key marketing element of Latino‐targeted DTCA. We define selling medicine as the pharmaceutical industry's explicit promotion of medicine's cultural authority as a means of expanding its markets and profits. We reflect on the prospects of this development in terms of promoting medicalisation in a US subgroup that has heretofore eluded the pharmaceutical industry's marketing influence. Our analysis draws on Nikolas Rose's insights concerning variations in the degree to which certain groups of people are more medically made up than others, by reflecting on the racial and ethnic character of medicalisation in the USA and the role DTCA plays in shaping medicalisation trends.

A video abstract of this article can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZabCle9-jHw&feature=youtu.be
Relatively Permanent Pigmented or Vascular Skin Marks for Identification: A Pilot Reliability Study
Authors: Nurhudatiana Arfika , Kong Adams Wai‐Kin , Craft Noah , Tey Hong Liang
Published: August 2015

In child sexual exploitation offenses, the collected evidence images often show the skin of nonfacial body parts of the criminals and victims. For identification in this scenario, “relatively permanent pigmented or vascular skin marks,” abbreviated as RPPVSM, were recently introduced as the basis for a novel biometric trait. This pilot study evaluated the interexaminer variability of RPPVSM identification. Four dermatology physicians were recruited to examine RPPVSM from 75 skin images collected from a total of 51 Caucasian and Asian subjects. The images were separated into 50 reference (“suspect”) images and 25 evaluation (“evidence”) images. The examiners were asked to perform identification by annotating RPPVSM in each of the 25 evaluation images and matching them with the reference images. The rate of misidentification was 0% while the mean rate at which examiners failed to find a match was 6%, indicating the potential of dermatology physicians performing the role of RPPVSM examiners.
Preserved oxygenation in obese patients receiving protective ventilation during laparoscopic surgery: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Edmark L. , Östberg E. , Scheer H. , Wallquist W. , Hedenstierna G. , Zetterström H.
Published: August 2015

Background

Venous admixture from atelectasis and airway closure impedes oxygenation during general anaesthesia. We tested the hypothesis that continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) during pre‐oxygenation and reduced fraction of inspiratory oxygen (FIO2) during emergence from anaesthesia can improve oxygenation in patients with obesity undergoing laparoscopic surgery.

Methods

In the intervention group (n = 20, median BMI 41.9), a CPAP of 10 cmH2O was used during pre‐oxygenation and induction of anaesthesia, but no CPAP was used in the control group (n = 20, median BMI 38.1). During anaesthesia, all patients were ventilated in volume‐controlled mode with an FIO2 of 0.4 and a positive end‐expiratory pressure (PEEP) of 10 cmH2O. During emergence, before extubation, the control group was given an FIO2 of 1.0 and the intervention group was divided into two subgroups, which were given an FIO2 of 1.0 or 0.31. Oxygenation was assessed perioperatively by the estimated venous admixture (EVA).

Results

The median EVA before pre‐oxygenation was about 8% in both groups. During anaesthesia after intubation, the median EVA was 8.2% in the intervention vs. 13.2% in the control group (P = 0.048). After CO2 pneumoperitoneum, the median EVA was 8.4% in the intervention vs. 9.9% in the control group (P > 0.05).

One hour post‐operatively, oxygenation had deteriorated in patients given an FIO2 of 1.0 during emergence but not in patients given an FIO2 of 0.31.

Conclusions

A CPAP of 10 cmH2O during pre‐oxygenation and induction, followed by PEEP after intubation, seemed to preserve oxygenation during anaesthesia. Post‐operative oxygenation depended on the FIO2 used during emergence.
When are investment projects in the same risk class?
Authors: Johnstone David
Published: August 2015

If two investments have the same pay‐off covariance with the market but one has higher expected pay‐off, which asset according to theCAPMhas most risk? One answer is that as far as risk goes the two assets are the same, because they have the same covariance with the market. The correct answer, pointed out nearly four decades ago by Eugene Fama, but long overlooked, is that investments have the same risk, the same returns beta and the sameCAPMdiscount rate if and only if they have the sameratioofex antepay‐off covariance to pay‐off mean. This insight clarifies much of the conventional wisdom that surrounds capital budgeting and ‘risk‐adjusted’ discount rates, while also displaying the mechanics by which information arrival affects theCAPMcost of capital.
Biopsy and the diagnostic evaluation of musculoskeletal tumours: critical but often missed in the 21st century
Authors: Trieu Jason , Sinnathamby Mathuranthakan , Di Bella Claudia , Pianta Marcus , Perera Warren , Slavin John L. , Schlicht Stephen M. , Choong Peter F. M.
Published: August 2015

Bone and soft‐tissue sarcomas are rare and heterogeneous malignancies arising from tissues of mesenchymal origin. Treatment planning is informed by accurate diagnosis for which biopsy is the diagnostic standard. Biopsy in the setting of suspected malignancy is a technically challenging procedure that should only be performed at specialist institutions. Without the requisite expertise, they can compromise the viability of reconstructive procedures and may make necessary amputation to achieve adequate surgical margins. The risk of complications arising from the procedure must be minimized and therefore biopsy should always be preceded by imaging. There must be no attempt at biopsy or excision prior to referral if there is any suspicion of malignancy. Patients with suspected bone and soft‐tissue tumours are best evaluated and treated at specialist sarcoma centres under the care of expert multidisciplinary teams. Prompt referral to a specialist sarcoma centre should always be made prior to biopsy for any suspicious mass that is painful, progressively increasing in size, greater than 5 cm in diameter, deep to deep fascia or recurs following inadvertent excision.
Numerical Analysis of Blood Damage Potential of the HeartMate II and HeartWare HVAD Rotary Blood Pumps
Authors: Thamsen Bente , Blümel Bastian , Schaller Jens , Paschereit Christian O. , Affeld Klaus , Goubergrits Leonid , Kertzscher Ulrich
Published: August 2015

Implantable left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) became the therapy of choice in treating end‐stage heart failure. Although survival improved substantially and is similar in currently clinically implanted LVADs HeartMate II (HM II) and HeartWare HVAD, complications related to blood trauma are frequently observed. The aim of this study was to compare these two pumps regarding their potential blood trauma employing computational fluid dynamics. High‐resolution structured grids were generated for the pumps. Newtonian flow was calculated, solving Reynolds‐averaged Navier–Stokes equations with a sliding mesh approach and a k‐ω shear stress transport turbulence model for the operating point of 4.5 L/min and 80 mm Hg. The pumps were compared in terms of volumes subjected to certain viscous shear stress thresholds, below which no trauma was assumed (von Willebrand factor cleavage: 9 Pa, platelet activation: 50 Pa, and hemolysis: 150 Pa), and associated residence times. Additionally, a hemolysis index was calculated based on a Eulerian transport approach. Twenty‐two percent of larger volumes above 9 Pa were observed in the HVAD; above 50 Pa and 150 Pa the differences between the two pumps were marginal. Residence times were higher in the HVAD for all thresholds. The hemolysis index was almost equal for the HM II and HVAD. Besides the gap regions in both pumps, the inlet regions of the rotor and diffuser blades have a high hemolysis production in the HM II, whereas in the HVAD, the volute tongue is an additional site for hemolysis production. Thus, in this study, the comparison of the HM II and the HVAD using numerical methods indicated an overall similar tendency to blood trauma in both pumps. However, influences of turbulent shear stresses were not considered and effects of the pivot bearing in the HM II were not taken into account. Further in vitro investigations are required.
Real‐Time Observation of Thrombus Growth Process in an Impeller of a Hydrodynamically Levitated Centrifugal Blood Pump by Near‐Infrared Hyperspectral Imaging
Authors: Sakota Daisuke , Murashige Tomotaka , Kosaka Ryo , Fujiwara Tatsuki , Nishida Masahiro , Maruyama Osamu
Published: August 2015

Understanding the thrombus formation in cardiovascular devices such as rotary blood pumps is the most important issue in developing more hemocompatible devices. The objective of this study was to develop a hyperspectral imaging (HSI) method to visualize the thrombus growth process within a rotary blood pump and investigate the optical properties of the thrombus. An in vitro thrombogenic test was conducted using fresh porcine blood and a specially designed hydrodynamically levitated centrifugal blood pump with a transparent bottom. The pump rotating at 3000 rpm circulated the blood at 1.0 L/min. The bottom surface of the pump was illuminated with white light pulsed at the same frequency as the pump rotation, and the backward‐scattered light was imaged using the HSI system. Using stroboscopic HSI and an image construction algorithm, dynamic spectral imaging at wavelengths ranging from 608 to 752 nm within the rotating pump was achieved. After completing the experiment, we collected the red thrombus formed in the pump impeller and quantified the thrombus hemoglobin concentration (Hbthrombus). The spectrum changed around the center of the impeller, and the area of change expanded toward the impeller flow path. The shape corresponded approximately to the shape of the thrombus. The spectrum change indicated that the light scattering derived from red blood cells decreased. The Hbthrombus was 4.7 ± 1.3 g/dL versus a total hemoglobin of 13 ± 0.87 g/dL. The study revealed that Hbthrombus was reduced by the surrounding blood flow.
Mouse white adipose tissue‐derived mesenchymal stem cells gain pericentral and periportal hepatocyte features after differentiation in vitro, which are preserved in vivo after hepatic transplantation
Authors: Winkler S. , Hempel M. , Brückner S. , Mallek F. , Weise A. , Liehr T. , Tautenhahn H.‐M. , Bartels M. , Christ B.
Published: August 2015

Aim

Mesenchymal stem cells may differentiate into hepatocyte‐like cells in vitro and in vivo. Therefore, they are considered a novel cell resource for the treatment of various liver diseases. Here, the aim was to demonstrate that mesenchymal stem cells may adopt both perivenous and periportal hepatocyte‐specific functions in vitro and in vivo.

Methods

Adipose tissue‐derived mesenchymal stem cells were isolated from immunodeficient C57BL/6 (B6.129S6‐Rag2tm1FwaPrf1tm1Clrk) mice and differentiated into the hepatocytic phenotype by applying a simple protocol. Their physiological and metabolic functions were analysed in vitro and after hepatic transplantation in vivo.

Results

Mesenchymal stem cells changed their morphology from a fibroblastoid into shapes of osteocytes, chondrocytes, adipocytes and hepatocytes. Typical for mesenchymal stem cells, hematopoietic marker genes were not expressed. CD90, which is not expressed on mature hepatocytes, decreased significantly after hepatocytic differentiation. Markers indicative for liver development like hepatic nuclear factor 4 alpha, or for perivenous hepatocyte specification like cytochrome P450 subtype 3a11, and CD26 were significantly elevated. Periportal hepatocyte‐specific markers like carbamoylphosphate synthetase 1, the entry enzyme of the urea cycle, were up‐regulated. Consequently, cytochrome P450 enzyme activity and urea synthesis increased significantly to values comparable to cultured primary hepatocytes. Both perivenous and periportal qualities were preserved after hepatic transplantation and integration into the host parenchyma.

Conclusions

Adult mesenchymal stem cells from adipose tissue differentiated into hepatocyte‐like cells featuring both periportal and perivenous functions. Hence, they are promising candidates for the treatment of region‐specific liver cell damage and may support organ regeneration in acute and chronic liver diseases.
Circulating microparticles from diabetic rats impair endothelial function and regulate endothelial protein expression
Authors: Ishida K. , Taguchi K. , Hida M. , Watanabe S. , Kawano K. , Matsumoto T. , Hattori Y. , Kobayashi T.
Published: August 2015

Aim

Diabetes mellitus increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, which is accompanied by functional and structural changes in the vascular system. Microparticles (MPs) have been described as biological vectors of endothelial dysfunction in other pathologies. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying their formation and signalling are unclear. We investigated the role ofMPs derived from streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced diabetic rats in endothelial function.

Methods

Male Wistar rats were injected withSTZto induce diabetes, andMPs isolated from control orSTZ‐induced diabetic rats were characterized by dot blotting (assessed byCD62P detections), flow cytometry (assessed by annexin V detections) andELISA. Carotid arteries from rats were incubated withMPs, and expressions of enzymes and endothelium‐dependent relaxation were analysed.

Results

The circulating levels ofMPs, particularly the levels of platelet‐derived microparticles, from diabetic rats were higher than those present in controls. Endothelium‐dependent relaxation induced by acetylcholine (ACh) was attenuated in carotid arteries fromSTZ‐induced diabetic rats. Following the incubation of control carotid arteries withMPs isolated fromSTZrats, ACh‐induced endothelium‐dependent relaxation was impaired, butMPs isolated from control rats had no such effect. Furthermore, the effect ofMPs was mediated by a decrease in expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and the overexpression of caveolin‐1.

Conclusion

CirculatingMPs isolated fromSTZ‐induced diabetic rats induce endothelial dysfunction in carotid arteries and regulate protein expressions of eNOSand caveolin‐1. These data advance our understanding of the deleterious effects of circulatingMPs observed in disorders with diabetic complications.