bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic value of long non-coding RNA breast cancer anti-estrogen resistance 4 in human cancers
Authors: Meng Yang , Liu Yu-Lan , Li Kai , Fu Tao
Published: May 2019

Background:

Since long non-coding RNA breast cancer anti-estrogen resistance 4 (lncRNA BCAR4) is dysregulated in various types of cancers, we conducted a meta-analysis to determine its prognostic value in cancer.

Methods:

PubMed, EMBASE database, and CENTRAL were systematically searched.

Pooled hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were collected to estimate the prognostic value. Odds ratios (ORs) and their 95% CIs were used to assess the association between lncRNA BCAR4 expression and clinicopathological features, including tumor size, differentiation, lymph node metastasis, distant metastasis, and tumor stage.

Results:

Ten studies with 890 patients were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled results indicated that high lncRNA BCAR4 expression was associated with poor overall survival (OS) (HR 2.80, 95% CI: 2.08–3.78; P < .001). Overexpression of lncRNA BCAR4 was related to lymph node metastasis (OR 3.68, 95% CI: 2.25–6.00; P < .001), high tumor stage (OR 3.19, 95% CI: 1.98–5.13; P < .001), and distant metastasis (OR 3.83, 95% CI: 2.15–6.82; P < .001), but not to tumor size.

Conclusions:

Therefore, lncRNA BCAR4 overexpression is associated with poor OS and advanced clinicopathological features, and lncRNA BCAR4 may be a novel prognostic biomarker in cancer patients. However, further high-quality studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Total laparoscopic duodenum-preserving pancreatic head resection for solid pseudopaillary neoplasm of pancreas
Authors: Liang Bin , Chen Yuanyuan , Li Mengyang , Dong Xiaofeng , Yao Siyang , Liu Tianqi
Published: May 2019

Rationale:

There is controversy regarding the optimal surgical approach for pancreatic lesions in the head of the pancreas. Duodenum-preserving pancreatic head resection compared with pancreaticoduodenectomy is technically more challenging, but preserves more functional pancreatic tissue.

Patient concerns:

A 25-year-old woman was admitted to our department on May 10, 2017. Computed tomographic's saw a 2.0 × 2.1-cm lesion located in the head of pancreas and its diagnosis was nonfunctional neuroendocrine tumors? The magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography scan demonstrated a solitary 1.6 × 1.7-cm lesion located in the head of pancreas, and its diagnosis was tumor. The patient's condition was good and symptomless, without any disease history. Physical examination and routine blood investigations were normal. All pancreatic malignant tumor biological markers were negative.

Diagnoses:

Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of pancreas.

Interventions:

Total laparoscopic head pancreatectomy with Roux-Y pancreaticojejunostomy was performed.

Outcomes:

The recovery was smooth after surgery. At the end of 20 months follow-up, she was well and showed no signs of recurrence.

Lessons:

The anatomy of the operation is clearer and easier than open surgery because of the magnification effect of laparoscopy. Total laparoscopic head pancreatectomy is safe, effective, and feasible for solid pseudopapillary neoplasm of pancreas, and it should be equally applicable to some other pancreatic cystic neoplasms and neuro-endocrine tumors.
Engaging Patients and Caregivers in Research for Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Grant Amy , Crane Melissa , Laupacis Andreas , Griffiths Anne , Burnett Dave , Hood Amanda , Kluthe Cheryl , Maghera Muneet , Mann Malcolm , Mansi Melissa , Murray Kate , Trempe Marie‐Josée , Otley Anthony
Published: May 2019

Introduction:

Including individuals with lived experience in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is essential to establishing a research agenda that is mutually impactful to both those treating and those experiencing the disease.

Methods:

Using the James Lind Alliance approach to research priority setting, a 10‐member steering committee composed of current and former pediatric patients with IBD, caregivers, and clinicians was formed. A national survey, disseminated across Canada, elicited uncertainties which were divided into unanswered and answered research questions. Subsequently a research prioritization survey was disseminated where respondents ranked their top 20 research uncertainties. A final prioritization meeting was held to agree upon the top 10 uncertainties.

Results:

From 1209 research questions submitted by 363 participants, the list was reduced to 105 indicative questions that were within scope and deemed unanswered in the literature. Via the national research prioritization survey, this list was further reduced. The top 10 uncertainties identified at the final research consensus meeting, with 21 participants from all stakeholder groups, included “What are the causes of IBD?,” “Can IBD be prevented?,” “What role does diet have in the management of pediatric IBD?.” Other questions concerned flare ups, biomarkers, optimal patient education, long‐term effects of medication and early‐diagnosis, role of psychological support, and optimal approach to diagnosis.

Conclusion:

This research adds a unique perspective by deriving a list of pediatric IBD research uncertainties important by patients and caregivers and clinicians.
DYRK1A up-regulation specifically impairs a presynaptic form of long-term potentiation
Authors: Lepagnol-Bestel Aude-Marie , Haziza Simon , Viard Julia , Salin Paul A. , Crépel Valérie , Duchon Arnaud , Herault Yann , Simonneau Michel
Published: May 2019

Chromosome 21 DYRK1A kinase has long been associated with a variety of psychiatric diseases including Down Syndrome. We previously showed that Dyrk1A interacts with SWI/SNF (SWItch/Sucrose Non-Fermentable) nucleosome remodeling complex inducing expression changes of genes encoding key neuronal proteins. However, the functional impact of this kinase at the synapse level remains unclear. We studied a mouse model that incorporated the YAC 152F7 (570 kb) encoding six chromosome 21 genes including DYRK1A. We found that DYRK1A Interacts with the key chromatin remodelers EP300 and CREBBP. Moreover, we observed changes in the transcriptional levels of genes encoding presynaptic proteins involved in glutamate vesicle exocytosis, namely Rims1, Munc13-1, Syn2, Rab3A. This result prompted us to investigate the two main forms of long-term potentiation (LTP) required for learning and memory: the (N-methyl d-aspartate) receptor-dependent postsynaptic form versus the glutamate release-dependent presynaptic form. Interestingly, extracellular electrophysiological recordings in hippocampal slices of the YAC mouse line revealed that only the presynaptic forms of plasticity were impacted, leaving the post-synaptic form of plasticity intact. T o refine our findings, we used a mouse BAC 189N3 (152 kb) line that only triplicate the gene Dyrk1A. Again, we found that this presynaptic form of LTP is also impaired in this mouse line. This result demonstrates that abnormal up-regulation of Dyrk1A alone is sufficient to inhibit specifically the presynaptic forms of LTP. Altogether, our results suggest that impairment of DYRK1A gene dosage may impact memory precision, and therefore reinforce our mechanistic understanding of the cognitive impairment detected in this mouse model.
Characterization of threeYarrowia lipolyticastrains in respect to different cultivation temperatures and metabolite secretion
Authors: Hackenschmidt S , Bracharz F , Daniel R , Thürmer A , Bruder S , Kabisch J
Published: May 2019

Despite the increasing relevance, ranging from academic research to industrial applications, only a limited number of nonconventional, oleaginousYarrowia lipolyticastrains are characterized in detail. Therefore, we analyzed three strains in regard to their metabolic and physiological properties and in respect to important characteristics of a production strains. A flow cytometry method was set up to evaluate their fitness in a rapid manner. By investigating different cultivation conditions and media compositions, similarities and differences between the distinct strain backgrounds could be derived. Especially sugar alcohol production, as well as a agglomeration of cells were found to be connected with growth at high temperatures. In addition, sugar alcohol production was independent of high substrate concentrations under these conditions. To investigate particular traits, including growth characteristics and metabolite concentrations, genomic analysis were performed. We found sequence variations for one third of the annotated proteins but no obvious link to all phenotypic features.
Three new quinuclidine-based structures: second harmonic generation response for 1,2-bis(1-azoniabicyclo[2.2.2]octan-3-ylidene)hydrazine dichloride
Authors: Qiao Liang , Chen Xiao-Gang , Gao Ji-Xing , Ai Yong
Published: May 2019

The crystal structures of three quinuclidine-based compounds, namely (1-azabicyclo[2.2.2]octan-3-ylidene)hydrazine monohydrate, C7H13N3·H2O (1), 1,2-bis(1-azabicyclo[2.2.2]octan-3-ylidene)hydrazine, C14H22N4 (2), and 1,2-bis(1-azoniabicyclo[2.2.2]octan-3-ylidene)hydrazine dichloride, C14H24N4
2+·2Cl− (3), are reported. In the crystal structure of 1, the quinuclidine-substituted hydrazine and water molecules are linked through N—H...O and O—H...N hydrogen bonds, forming a two-dimensional array. The compound crystallizes in the centrosymmetric space group P21/c. Compound 2 was refined in the space group Pccn and exhibits no hydrogen bonding. However, its hydrochloride form 3 crystallizes in the noncentrosymmetric space group Pc. It shows a three-dimensional network structure via intermolecular hydrogen bonding (N—H...C and N/C—H...Cl). Compound 3, with its acentric structure, shows strong second harmonic activity.
Crystal structure and DFT analyses of a pentacoordinated PCP pincer nickel(II) complex
Authors: Subramaniyan Vasudevan , Kumar Ashok , Govindaraj Anbarasu , Mani Ganesan
Published: May 2019

The reaction of NiCl2 with 1,3-bis[(diphenylphosphanyl)methyl]hexahydropyrimidine in the presence of 2,6-dimethylphenyl isocyanide and KPF6 afforded a new pentacoordinated PCP pincer NiII complex, namely {1,3-bis[(diphenylphosphanyl)methyl]hexahydropyrimidin-2-yl-κN
2}(2,6-dimethylphenyl isocyanide-κC)nickel(II) hexafluoridophosphate 0.70-hydrate, [Ni(C9H9N)(C30H30ClN2P2)]PF6·0.7H2O or [NiCl{C(NCH2PPh2)2(CH2)3-κ3
P,C,P′}(Xylyl-NC)]PF6·0.7H2O, in very good yield. Its X-ray structure showed a distorted square-pyramidal geometry and the compound does not undergo dissociation in solution, as shown by variable-temperature NMR and UV–Vis studies. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations provided an insight into the bonding; the nickel dsp
2-hybridized orbitals form the basal plane and the nearly pure p orbital forms the axial bond. This is consistent with the NBO (natural bond orbital) analysis of analogous nickel(II) complexes.
Tone fitness ladies’ studio: market segmentation or market mix?
Authors: Al Zaidi Sameera Mohamed , Ahmad Syed Zamberi
Published: May 2019

Learning outcomes

By reading and understanding the case study, Students will be able to link the importance of healthy life style and the physical exercise to the fitness industry in the UAE society, to reduce the growing percentage of obesity and related diseases; identify the main challenges of Tone Fitness Ladies’ Studio (Tone); explore the market segmentation of fitness centers in UAE based on a benefits segmentation of fitness industry; identify the demographic segmentation of Tone Fitness studio and the effects of considering gender and age; and develop individual perspectives of how Tone Fitness ladies’ studio may overcome the challenges to compete in the UAE fitness market.

Case overview/synopsis

Three sisters from the United Arab Emirates (Hind, Mariam and Amna Mohamed Omer) have established a fitness studio for women in Al Maqta’a (formerly known as Bain al Jasrain) on the eastern side of Abu Dhabi. Each of them shared a passion for sport, which led them to realize their business idea of setting up a fitness studio specifically for women. An understanding of Emirati culture and the needs of women in their society inspired them to think of a special place where women could find relief from work and life demands while also exercising pursuant of a healthy lifestyle. They launched Tone Ladies’ Fitness Studio (Tone) in September 2014, the first fitness studio for women in Al Maqta’a. The studio is in the same building as a cooperative hypermarket – a very good location because it is visited by many people and has ample parking spaces. Partly due to growing interest among Abu Dhabi residents in fitness and health, new fitness studios opened nearby in 2016, with competitors offering excellent services at reasonable prices. While the demand for fitness and healthy lifestyle pursuits is high in the region, the market has also expanded greatly to meet this demand, with many high-quality options becoming available. As a result of this, businesses such as Tone are facing serious threats to their sustainability. Thus, first, how can the Omer sisters sustain their business and strategize to maintain customers in their market segment? Second, what could they do to improve the market position of Tone in the UAE fitness market?

Complexity academic level

This case study is suitable for advanced level of diploma certificate in marketing or undergraduate student of marketing field.

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 8: Marketing
Creativity and forms of managerial control in innovation processes: tools, viewpoints and practices
Authors: Bollinger Sophie Raedersdorf
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Innovation processes are inherently uncertain. They account for a high proportion of risks taken by companies and cause tensions. The purpose of this paper is to consider whether some management tools facilitate the smooth implementation of an innovation process. Does the relevance of these tools depend on the size of the company, its activity sector, the type of innovation expected or the viewpoint of the manager in charge?

Design/methodology/approach

The author answers these questions using a quantitative questionnaire survey of 169 companies. This survey allows the author to describe the tools and practices of management control of innovation processes and to highlight the specific needs of different sets of companies.

Findings

The collected data show a convergence of tools and practices used, which the literature on managerial control and creativity helps us to understand.

Originality/value

The paper also contributes to reconciling management control and innovation activities. In particular, it investigates how the use of management tools varies depending on managers’ viewpoints. A distinction is made between formal, information system-based tools and more informal, human relationship-based tools.
Study of Asian RDR based on re3data
Authors: Cho Jane
Published: May 2019

Purpose

RDR has become an essential academic infrastructure in an atmosphere that facilitates the openness of research output granted by public research funds. This study aims to understand operational status of 152 Asian data repositories on re3data and cluster repositories into four groups according to their operational status. In addition, identify the main subject areas of RDRs in Asian countries and try to understand what topic correlations exist between data archived in Asian countries.

Design/methodology/approach

This study extracts metadata from re3data and analyzes it in various ways to grasp the current status of research data repositories in Asian countries. The author clusters the repositories into four groups using hierarchical cluster analysis according to the level of operation. In addition, for identifying the main subject areas of RDRs in Asian countries, extracted the keywords of the subject field assigned to the each repository, and Pathfinder Network (PFNET) analysis is performed.

Findings

About 70 per cent of the Asian-country repositories are those where licenses or policies are declared but not granted permanent identifiers and international-level certification. As a result of the subject domain analysis, eight clusters are formed centering on life sciences and natural sciences.

Originality/value

The research output in developing countries, especially non-English-speaking countries, tends not to be smoothly circulated in the international community due to the immaturity of the open-access culture, as well as linguistic and technical problems. This study has value, in that it investigates the status of Asian countries’ research data management and global distribution infrastructure in global open-science trends.
In-flight reconfiguration of lithium-ion cells aimed at extending flight times and range of electrically powered UAVs
Authors: Zabunov Svetoslav , Mardirossian Garo
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to disclose a novel reconfiguration battery design suitable for electrically powered UAVs.

Design/methodology/approach

A design of a reconfigurable battery module is presented. Test setup with prototype battery module is developed and described. Test results of measurements are shown and discussed.

Findings

The results ascertain the benefits of implementing a reconfigurable battery in small electrically powered UAVs and specifically prove the efficiency of the proposed design.

Originality/value

The proposed novel design is compared to previous work while advances from the latter and the gained advantages were established.
Supply chain inclusion in base of the pyramid markets
Authors: Rosca Eugenia , Möllering Guido , Rijal Arpan , Bendul Julia Christine
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore mechanisms of supply chain inclusion in Base of the Pyramid (BOP) settings. It distinguishes micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises (MSME)-led local supply chains on the one hand and multinational enterprises (MNEs)-led global supply chains on the other hand. This paper aims to answer the following research question: Which mechanisms of supply chain inclusion are employed empirically by MSMEs and how can these mechanisms influence social impact creation in MNE-led global supply chains?

Design/methodology/approach

A large-scale empirical study of MSMEs operating in BOP markets is performed and a cluster analysis conducted to systematically categorize supply chain inclusion. The cluster analysis and current literature yield theory-based implications for MNE-led global supply chains.

Findings

The cluster analysis reveals three meaningful clusters of supply chain inclusion in BOP markets and highlights two main aspects. They include direct vs indirect mechanisms of inclusion and diversity in supplier relationships with local organizations aimed at either “sourcing” local capabilities needed for inclusion or “outsourcing” the inclusion. Based on these aspects, two scenarios are proposed and evaluated for local-global supply chain symbiosis.

Research limitations/implications

This study aims to contribute to the existing literature with a more fine-grained understanding of the inclusion of BOP actors in local supply chains and by proposing alternative trajectories for global supply chain inclusion.

Practical implications

The findings outline several important decisions that managers need to make to include BOP actors in supply chain activities.

Originality/value

This paper contributes a novel, combined perspective of local supply chains (MSMEs) and global supply chains (MNEs).
The management of first party fraud in e-tailing: a qualitative study
Authors: Amasiatu Chioma Vivian , Shah Mahmood Hussain
Published: May 2019

Purpose

First-party fraud in which retail consumers commit fraud against retailers is a growing problem. However, to date studies on retail crime have focused almost entirely on fraudulent consumer behaviours in physical stores. With the growth of e-commerce, the losses to retailers from this fraud are growing so there is strong need to research this problem from multiple perspectives. The paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted three case studies and a total of 24 semi-structured interviews with retail managers, and evaluated their existing prevention-related documentation. Fraud management lifecycle theory was used to organise and discuss the findings.

Findings

The authors found that many retailers are treating this problem as just a cost of doing business online and have no detailed plans for dealing with this problem or any reporting to law enforcement agencies. However, they have begun working with delivery companies for delivery accuracy. Use of convenience stores as collection points is also showing early improvements.

Research limitations/implications

The small number of cases and interviews used is a limitation of this study. However, the authors believe that the findings are useful for advancing knowledge in this emerging research area.

Practical implications

This study provides insight into existing management practices in this domain, and makes recommendations on how to improve the management of first-party fraud. The study also makes a case for increased managerial interest and involvement in reducing first-party fraud. The study also helps bridge a glaring gap in existing literature and provides useful leads for further research.

Originality/value

To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to evaluate the existing practices employed to manage first-party fraud in e-retail.
A practical approach to measuring the impacts of stockouts on demand
Authors: Kim Sungil , Kim Heeyoung , Lu Jye-Chyi
Published: May 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a statistical method to measure the impacts of stockouts on demand, using a segmented linear regression model.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed method is applied to data sets from large retail chains to measure the impacts of stockouts of an item on substitute items. The measured impacts of stockouts can be used to estimate the true demand of the sold-out item by recovering the lost demand (turned-away demand), as well as to estimate the true demand of the substitute item by reducing the extra demand.

Findings

This study found that estimated true demand by the proposed method improves sales forecasting and calculation of the annual expected revenue.

Originality/value

A new method to measure the impacts of stockouts on the demand of substitute items was proposed. The proposed method is practical, in that, it is conceptually simple, computationally efficient and applicable in general scenarios. Also, the proposed method is scalable for larger data sets.
CCP resolution, loss allocation and shareholders’ rights
Authors: Peters Marc
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Central clearing counterparties’ (CCPs) specific loss allocation mechanism is reflected in the specific resolution regime designed at the international level. At the same time, international guidance texts require equity to bear losses first in resolution. This creates a tension that immediately exposes resolution authorities to potential claims from CCPs’ shareholders. The purpose of this paper is to seek possible options to solve that tension, thereby enabling a workable and credible resolution regime for CCPs.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper analyses the current tension between the no creditor worse-off (NCWO) counterfactual for CCPs and the “equity bears first losses in resolution” principle. It then considers six different options to solve this tension, ranging from a revision of insolvency law to the modification of the loss-allocation structure.

Findings

The paper concludes that additional layers of capital contribution, adapting the contractual arrangements or articles of incorporation and/or the creation of a specific NCWO counterfactual for shareholders could help in solving the identified tension.

Practical implications

The paper presents options on how to design a workable and credible resolution regime for CCPs that would enable resolution authorities to exercise their powers and have the flexibility to intervene at an early stage in recovery to prevent the exhaustion of available financial resources, without being unduly exposed to claims.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the literature on CCP resolution. It is one of the first to analyse the articulation between the loss-allocation structure of CCPs, the NCWO principle and shareholders’ rights. We hope that this paper will encourage further literature to develop on this important subject.
Environmental impact of economic growth, emission and FDI: systematic review of reviews
Authors: Saini Neha , Sighania Monica
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to organize the detailed review of economic growth, carbon emission and foreign capital inflows and its impact on the environment. Another objective of the study is to provide the comprehensive bibliography and to analyze the findings and results of the studies undertaken in review.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper examined 111 research papers from a sample of thousands of papers, based on inclusion criteria, in this area of research. These 111 research papers are categorized on the basis of several factors to know the status of research on this topic.

Findings

This study is based on economic development and carbon emission and its impact on the environment. We tried to gather all the available facts based on this topic and found that the topic is gaining high relevance in the present scenario because of the growing pace of development in developing countries. Most of the studies supported the environmental Kuznets curve hypothesis and we also found that significant amount of literature is available which supports cleaner FDI as a measure to mitigate the negative effects of economic growth on the ecological environment.

Originality/value

Based on the literature review from various sources, this study provides the collection, classification and comprehensive bibliography on this topic, which may be helpful for stakeholders such as academicians, researchers and policymakers working particularly in this area of research.
Effects of Sustained‐Release Beraprost in Patients With Primary Glomerular Disease or Nephrosclerosis: CASSIOPEIR Study Results
Authors: Nakamoto Hidetomo , Yu Xue‐Qing , Kim Suhnggwon , Origasa Hideki , Zheng Hongguang , Chen Jianghua , Joo Kwon Wook , Sritippayawan Suchai , Chen Qinkai , Chen Hung‐Chun , Tsubakihara Yoshiharu , Tamai Hirofumi , Song Sang Heon , Vaithilingam Indralingam , Lee Kang Wook , Shu Kuo‐Hsiung , Hok‐King Lo Stanley , Isono Masanao , Kurumatani Hajimu , Okada Kiyonobu , Kanoh Hiroyuki , Kiriyama Takashi , Yamada Shunsuke , Fujita Toshiro
Published: May 2019

TRK‐100STP, a sustained‐release preparation of the orally active prostacyclin analogue beraprost sodium, targets renal hypoxia. This study aimed to show the superiority of TRK‐100STP over placebos in patients with chronic kidney disease (with either primary glomerular disease or nephrosclerosis) to determine the recommended dose. CASSIOPEIR (Chronic Renal Failure Asian Study with Oral PGI2 Derivative for Evaluating Improvement of Renal Function) was a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study conducted at 160 sites in seven Asia‐Pacific countries and regions. Eligible patients (n = 892) were randomized to TRK‐100STP 120, 240 μg, or placebo for a treatment period of up to 4 years. The primary efficacy endpoint was time to first occurrence of a renal composite: doubling of serum creatinine or occurrence of end‐stage renal disease. No significant differences were observed in composite endpoints between TRK‐100STP and placebo (P = 0.5674). Hazard ratios (95% CI) in the TRK‐100STP 120 and 240 μg vs. placebo groups were 0.98 (0.78, 1.22) and 0.91 (0.72, 1.14), respectively. The overall incidence of adverse events and adverse drug reactions was comparable between treatment arms.
Corrosion casting in anatomy: Visualizing the architecture of hollow structures and surface details
Authors: Cornillie Pieter , Casteleyn Christophe , von Horst Christoph , Henry Robert
Published: May 2019

Corrosion casting is the technique by which a solid, negative replica is created from a hollow anatomical structure and liberated from its surrounding tissues. For centuries, different types of hardening substances have been developed to create such casts, but nowadays, thermosetting polymers are mostly used as casting medium. Although the principle and initial set‐up are relatively easy, producing high‐quality casts that serve their intended purpose can be quite challenging. This paper evaluates some of the more popular casting resins that are currently available and provides a step‐by‐step overview of the corrosion casting procedure, including surface casts of anatomical structures. Hurdles and pitfalls are discussed, along with possible solutions to circumvent them, based on personal experience by the authors.
Prenatal screening for pre‐eclampsia: Frequently asked questions
Authors: Wertaschnigg Dagmar , Reddy Maya , Mol Ben W.J. , Rolnik Daniel L. , da Silva Costa Fabricio
Published: May 2019

The current approach to screening for pre‐eclampsia is based on guidelines that rely on medical and obstetric history in early pregnancy to select a high‐risk group that might benefit from low‐dose aspirin. However, combined screening tests with the addition of biophysical and biochemical measurements have shown significantly better detection rates for preterm pre‐eclampsia. Furthermore, the administration of aspirin for the 10% screen‐positive group can lead to a significant reduction in severe and preterm forms of pre‐eclampsia. This review aims to answer frequently asked questions related to the clinical implementation of screening and the management of screening results.
Clinical factors associated with peanut allergy in a high‐risk infant cohort
Authors: Sicherer Scott H. , Wood Robert A. , Perry Tamara T. , Jones Stacie M. , Leung Donald Y. M. , Henning Alice K. , Dawson Peter , Burks A. Wesley , Lindblad Robert , Sampson Hugh A.
Published: May 2019

Background

Prognostication of peanut allergy (PNA) is relevant for early interventions. We aimed to determine baseline parameters associated with the development of PNA in 3‐ to 15‐month‐olds with likely egg and/or milk allergy, and/or moderate to severe atopic dermatitis (AD) and a positive egg/milk skin prick test (SPT), but no known PNA.

Methods

The primary endpoint was PNA [confirmed/convincing diagnosis or last classified as serologic PNA (<2 years, ≥5 kUA/L, otherwise ≥14 kUA/L, peanut IgE)] among 511 participants (median follow‐up, 7.3 years). Associations were explored with univariate logistic regression; factors with P < 0.15 were analyzed by stepwise multiple logistic regression, using data stratified by PNA status and randomly assigned to development and validation datasets.

Results

205/511 (40.1%) had PNA. Univariate factors associated with PNA (P < 0.01) included increased AD severity, larger egg and peanut SPT, greater egg, milk, peanut, Ara h1‐h3 IgE, higher peanut IgG and IgG4, and increased pregnancy peanut consumption. P‐values were between 0.01 and 0.05 for younger age, non‐white race, lack of breastfeeding, and increased lactation peanut consumption. Using a development dataset, the multivariate model identified younger age at enrollment, greater peanut and Ara h2 IgE, and lack of breastfeeding as prognosticators. The final model predicted 79% in the development and 75% in the validation dataset (AUC = 0.83 for both). Models using stricter or less strict PNA criteria both found Ara h2 as predictive.

Conclusions

Key factors associated with PNA in this high‐risk population included lack of breastfeeding, age, and greater Ara h2 and peanut‐specific IgE, which can be used to prognosticate outcomes.
Satellite image texture for the assessment of tropical anuran communities
Authors: Sugai Larissa Sayuri Moreira , Sugai José Luiz Massao Moreira , Ferreira Vanda Lucia , Silva Thiago Sanna Freire
Published: May 2019

The relationship between environmental heterogeneity and biodiversity represents a cornerstone of ecological research. While environmental descriptors over large extents usually have medium‐to‐low spatial resolution, in situ measures provide accurate information for limited areas, and a gap remains in providing remote descriptors that represent local environmental structure. Texture from satellite images can represent fine‐scale heterogeneity over wide spatial coverage, but to date, it has mostly been used to predict general aspects of species diversity, such as richness. Here, we assess the utility of image textures from high‐resolution satellite images (RapidEye 3A) and in situ variables to predict differences in the composition of anuran communities in a tropical savanna (Cerrado) of Brazil. While in situ measures accounted for compositional differences in the whole community, two measures of image textures were associated only with the variation of species within the Hylidae family (adj. R² = 0.16 and 0.14). Comparatively, image textures predicted ~2/3 of the variation explained by in situ measures (adj. R² = 0.23). When both approaches were combined, a greater compositional variation was achieved (adj. R² = 0.28), with 1/5 of it shared by both in situ and textures, and 1/5 attributed solely to texture. Our findings suggest that image texture can complement the assessment of environmental heterogeneity acting on the assembly of local anuran communities. This approach can be valuable for explicitly including spatial heterogeneity in biological assessments over broad spatial extents, especially for biological groups strongly filtered by environmental conditions.

Abstract in Portuguese is available with online material.
Neurogenic inflammation in periimplant and periodontal disease: A case–control split‐mouth study
Authors: Sert Sertaç , Sakallioğlu Umur , Lütfioğlu Müge , Aydoğdu Ahmet , Acarel Eser , Günaydın Murat
Published: May 2019

Objective

Although the regulatory effects of substance‐P (SP), neurokinin‐A (NKA), calcitonin gene‐linked peptide (CGRP) and neuropeptide‐Y (NPY) on periodontal inflammatory responses have been described, the effects of these neuropeptides on healthy and diseased periimplant tissues are not clearly defined.

Materials and methods

Thirty‐nine implants loaded at least for 12 months with their symmetrically matching teeth were evaluated and compared by a split‐mouth study design. Six study groups were created in this regard as follows: group 1 (healthy periodontal tissues), group 2 (healthy periimplant tissues), group 3 (gingivitis), group 4 (periimplant mucositis), group 5 (periodontitis) and group 6 (periimplantitis). Clinical examinations included Silness–Löe plaque index, Löe–Silness gingival index, bleeding on probing, probing pocket depth and clinical attachment level measurements. Gingival crevicular fluid and periimplant sulcular fluid samples were collected, and the concentrations of neuropeptides were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Their levels and correlations were investigated together with the clinical parameters.

Results

Neuropeptide levels were different in the teeth and implant groups according to the periodontal status (p < 0.001). SP and NKA levels were increased, whereas CGRP and NPY levels were decreased in the diseased states. There were no differences between the neuropeptide levels of matching teeth and implants (groups 1–2, groups 3–4 and groups 5–6; p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated the presence of local neuropeptides in healthy and diseased periimplant tissues. The neurogenic inflammatory responses were also found to be similar in both periimplant and periodontal tissues.
Precipitation and tree cover gradients structure avian alpha diversity in North‐western Costa Rica
Authors: Echeverri Alejandra , Frishkoff Luke O. , Gomez Juan Pablo , Zook Jim R. , Juárez Pedro , Naidoo Robin , Chan Kai M. A. , Karp Daniel S.
Published: May 2019

Aim

Changes in climate and land use are modifying biodiversity worldwide. Yet it remains unclear how both drivers interact to structure communities and determine patterns in taxonomic, phylogenetic and functional diversity at local scales. We focused on bird diversity and asked: how do precipitation and forest cover gradients interactively structure these elements of avian diversity?

Location

Guanacaste, North‐western Costa Rica.

Methods

We quantified changes in the abundance and composition of bird communities along independent gradients of regional precipitation, local forest cover and landscape forest cover that serve as proxies for climate drying and habitat conversion. We conducted point counts at 150 sites and statistically accounted for imperfect detection to test how environmental variation shaped community‐wide diversity metrics.

Results

We found that the three dimensions of diversity diverged in their responses to environmental gradients. Specifically, species richness increased linearly with precipitation, reached maximum values with intermediate tree cover at local scales and peaked at high levels of landscape tree cover. While phylogenetic diversity did not vary strongly across any gradient, functional diversity increased monotonically with both local and landscape‐level tree cover. Maximum values of functional diversity only occurred in large patches of forest where the tree cover was >75% at both local and landscape scales. Contrary to our expectations, we did not detect significant interactions between precipitation and tree cover gradients on any metric of local bird diversity.

Main conclusions

Our findings suggest that taxonomic diversity was more sensitive to environmental gradients than functional and phylogenetic diversity. The lack of synergies between precipitation and forest cover gradients on alpha diversity, at least in this system, simplifies the prospects of predicting future biodiversity change at local scales as our results suggest that climate change and land use act independently of one another.
Skill‐up study of systemic endoscopic examination technique using narrow band imaging of the head and neck region of patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma: Prospective multicenter study
Authors: Okamoto Naoki , Morimoto Hiroyuki , Yamamoto Yoichi , Kanda Keisuke , Nankinzan Rino , Kasamatsu Shingo , Yoshimura Shigenobu , Kan Motoyasu , Nakano Akira , Hosaka Shosuke , Watanabe Yuuka , Arahata Kyoko , Toyama Yuzo , Okamura Ayumi , Yamaguchi Taketo , Yano Tomonori
Published: May 2019

Objective

To evaluate the usefulness of a training program on endoscopic head and neck surveillance for beginner endoscopists.

Methods

This prospective multicenter study included 13 beginner endoscopists from 10 institutions who received training in systematic observation techniques and diagnostic criteria, and the training involved hands‐on learning. Between May 2016 and February 2017, enrolled patients with current or previously diagnosed esophageal squamous cell carcinomas underwent head and neck surveillance using narrow band imaging (NBI) endoscopy, and histologically confirmed head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) detection rates, endoscopic image quality, and examination times were compared before (group A) and after (group B) the training program. Maximum possible score for the endoscopic images was 30 points.

Results

A total of 330 patients, comprising 181 in group A and 149 in group B, were enrolled. Three patients with HNSCC were detected in group A (1.7%) and in group B (2.0%; P = 1.000). Mean ± standard deviation (SD) examination times were 157 ± 71 s and 174 ± 109 s in groups A and B, respectively, (P = 0.073). Mean ± SD scores of the endoscopic images were 25.04 ± 5.47 points and 27.01 ± 4.35 points in groups A and B, respectively, (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The HNSCC detection rate based on the use of NBI on patients with ESCC did not improve after the training program for beginner endoscopists; however, endoscopic image quality improved significantly after the training program.
Effects of surgical targeting in laser interstitial thermal therapy for mesial temporal lobe epilepsy: A multicenter study of 234 patients
Authors: Wu Chengyuan , Jermakowicz Walter J. , Chakravorti Srijata , Cajigas Iahn , Sharan Ashwini D. , Jagid Jonathan R. , Matias Caio M. , Sperling Michael R. , Buckley Robert , Ko Andrew , Ojemann Jeffrey G. , Miller John W. , Youngerman Brett , Sheth Sameer A. , McKhann Guy M. , Laxton Adrian W. , Couture Daniel E. , Popli Gautam S. , Smith Alexander , Mehta Ashesh D. , Ho Allen L. , Halpern Casey H. , Englot Dario J. , Neimat Joseph S. , Konrad Peter E. , Neal Elliot , Vale Fernando L. , Holloway Kathryn L. , Air Ellen L. , Schwalb Jason , Dawant Benoit M. , D'Haese Pierre‐Francois
Published: May 2019

Objective

Laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) for mesial temporal lobe epilepsy (mTLE) has reported seizure freedom rates between 36% and 78% with at least 1 year of follow‐up. Unfortunately, the lack of robust methods capable of incorporating the inherent variability of patient anatomy, the variability of the ablated volumes, and clinical outcomes have limited three‐dimensional quantitative analysis of surgical targeting and its impact on seizure outcomes. We therefore aimed to leverage a novel image‐based methodology for normalizing surgical therapies across a large multicenter cohort to quantify the effects of surgical targeting on seizure outcomes in LITT for mTLE.

Methods

This multicenter, retrospective cohort study included 234 patients from 11 centers who underwent LITT for mTLE. To investigate therapy location, all ablation cavities were manually traced on postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which were subsequently nonlinearly normalized to a common atlas space. The association of clinical variables and ablation location to seizure outcome was calculated using multivariate regression and Bayesian models, respectively.

Results

Ablations including more anterior, medial, and inferior temporal lobe structures, which involved greater amygdalar volume, were more likely to be associated with Engel class I outcomes. At both 1 and 2 years after LITT, 58.0% achieved Engel I outcomes. A history of bilateral tonic‐clonic seizures decreased chances of Engel I outcome. Radiographic hippocampal sclerosis was not associated with seizure outcome.

Significance

LITT is a viable treatment for mTLE in patients who have been properly evaluated at a comprehensive epilepsy center. Consideration of surgical factors is imperative to the complete assessment of LITT. Based on our model, ablations must prioritize the amygdala and also include the hippocampal head, parahippocampal gyrus, and rhinal cortices to maximize chances of seizure freedom. Extending the ablation posteriorly has diminishing returns. Further work is necessary to refine this analysis and define the minimal zone of ablation necessary for seizure control.
Long‐term successful outcome of a Streptococcus equi subspecies equi brain abscess
Authors: Schott H. C. , Esser M. M. , Pirie C. G. , Pease A. P. , Patterson J. S. , Reed S. M.
Published: May 2019

We previously described successful treatment, including surgical drainage, of a Streptococcus equi subspecies equi brain abscess that caused severe neurological deficits in a 7‐year‐old Quarter Horse mare. This report details the long‐term successful outcome of the case, findings of a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study performed 14 years after surgery and necropsy findings 18 years after initial treatment. Despite persistent cerebral and midbrain lesions detected by MRI and at necropsy, the mare returned to serviceable function within a year of initial treatment and had a successful performance career for over 10 years until carpal arthritis prompted retirement. This case demonstrates that brain abscess in horses can be successfully managed by combined medical and surgical treatment.
Family Change in Global Perspective: How and Why Family Systems Change
Authors: Furstenberg Frank F.
Published: May 2019

Changes in family systems that have occurred over the past half century throughout the Western world are now spreading across the globe to nations that are experiencing economic development, technological change, and shifts in cultural beliefs. Traditional family systems are adapting in different ways to a series of conditions that forced shifts in all Western nations. In this article, I examine the causes and consequences of global family change, introducing a recently funded project using the Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) and U.S. Census Bureau data to chart the pace and pattern of changes in marriage and family systems in low‐ and middle‐income nations.
Investigation of the anisotropic cyclic damage behavior of selective laser melted AISI 316L stainless steel
Authors: Stern Felix , Kleinhorst Jan , Tenkamp Jochen , Walther Frank
Published: May 2019

The additive manufacturing technique selective laser melting (SLM) is the most common process for metallic powders. The layer‐by‐layer process allows construction of components with high complex designs compared with conventional process routes. However, the orientation of parts related to the build platform and later to different loading conditions should be taken into account as the process‐induced microstructure and defects creating anisotropic mechanical behavior. To evaluate this influence of the building orientation as well as the process‐induced defects, different fatigue tests were performed on the SLM‐processed austenitic steel AISI 316 L (X2CrNiMo17‐12‐2). The distribution of the process‐induced porosity and, thus, the fatigue behavior is strongly related to the building direction, leading to a reduction of fatigue life for the tested 90° specimens of more than 90%.
The local market perception of firm risks during cross‐listing events
Authors: Schumann‐Foster Kathryn , Semaan Elias , Sono Hui
Published: May 2019

We examine the local investors’ perceptions on the relative idiosyncratic risks around cross‐listing events. We find that increases in relative firm‐specific risks around the listing date are temporary and small for Level I American depositary receipts (ADRs) while Level III ADRs have the most variations. For exchange‐listed ADRs from emerging markets, there is a significant decrease in the relative firm‐specific risk in the year prior to listing, which increases during the cross‐listing, while there are only significant increases in relative firm‐specific risks for developed market firms. We interpret these as evidences of negative relationship between firm opaqueness and relative firm‐specific risks.
Do multinational banks create or destroy shareholder value? A cross‐country analysis
Authors: Gulamhussen Mohamed Azzim , Pinheiro Carlos Manuel , Pozzolo Alberto Franco
Published: May 2019

We question whether the international diversification of multinational banks creates or destroys shareholder value. Based on a sample of 384 listed banks from 56 countries we provide new and robust evidence that bank cross‐border activities create shareholder value, as shown by an economically and statistically significant premium for international diversification. Our results are confirmed controlling for bank fixed effects, time‐varying bank characteristics, reverse causality, functional diversification, and instrumenting for the choice to expand abroad. The increase in shareholder value is slightly larger for banks in the middle range of international diversification and in the case of expansion towards less developed countries.