bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Origin of chromic effects and crystal-to-crystal phase transition in the polymorphs of tyraminium violurate
Authors: Gryl Marlena , Rydz Agnieszka , Wojnarska Joanna , Krawczuk Anna , Kozieł Marcin , Seidler Tomasz , Ostrowska Katarzyna , Marzec Monika , Stadnicka Katarzyna Marta
Published: January 2019

Chromic materials are nowadays widely used in various technological applications, however understanding the effect and the possibility of tuning the obtained colour of a material are still challenging. Here a combined experimental and theoretical study is presented on the solvatochromic and crystallochromic effects in the (pseudo)polymorphs of tyraminium violurate. This organic material exhibits a large solvatochromic shift (ca 192 nm) associated with broad colour change (from yellow to dark violet). Tyraminum violurate crystallizes as red crystals of form (I) from water as a solvate, and as an unsolvated form [violet crystals of (II)] from methanol solution. Form (I), when heated, undergoes two crystal-to-crystal phase transformations associated with colour change of the crystals. Crystals of (II) show extreme birefringence (ca 0.46) and high refractive index (n
γ above 1.90), which can be correlated with preferential orientation of the resultant dipole moments of the ions. Examination of optical effects (UV–Vis spectra) along with theoretical calculations (QTAIM, atomic and bond polarizabilities) enabled the description of the origin of colour in the studied materials.
Anchor shape gap coupled patch antenna for WiMAX and WLAN applications
Authors: Singh Vivek , Mishra Brijesh , Singh Rajeev
Published: January 2019

Purpose

Purpose of this study is to design a compact gap coupled anchor shape patch antenna for wireless local area network/high performance radio local area network and worldwide interoperability for microwave access applications.

Design/methodology/approach

An anchor shape microstrip antenna is conceived, designed, simulated and measured. The anchor shape antenna is transformed to its rectangular equivalent by conserving the patch area. Modeling and simulation of the antenna is performed by Ansys high frequency structure simulator (HFSS) electromagnetic solver based on the concept of finite element method. The simulated results are experimentally verified by using Agilent E5071C vector network analyzer. Theoretical analysis of an electromagnetically gap coupled anchor shape microstrip patch antenna has been performed by obtaining the lumped element equivalent of the transformed antenna.

Findings

The proposed antenna has a compact conducting patch of dimension 0.26λ × 0.12λ mm2 (λ is calculated at lower resonating frequency of 3.56 GHz) with impedance bandwidths of 100 and 140 MHz and antenna gains of 1.91 and 3.04 dB at lower resonating frequency of 3.56 GHz and upper resonating frequency of 5.4 GHz, with omni-directional radiation pattern.

Originality/value

In literature, one does not encounter anchor shape antenna using the concept of gap coupling and parasitic patches. The design has been optimized for wireless local area network/worldwide interoperability for microwave access applications with a relatively low patch area (291.12 mm2) as compared to other reported antennas for wireless local area network/worldwide interoperability for microwave access applications. Transformed antenna and the actual experimental antenna behavior varies, but the resonant frequencies of the transformed antenna as observed by theoretical analysis and simulated results (by high frequency structure simulator) are reasonably close, and the percentage difference between the resonant frequencies (both at lower and upper bands) is within the permissible limit of 1-2.5 per cent. Results confirm the theoretical proposition of transformation of shapes in antenna design, which allows a designer to adapt the design shape according to the application.
Modelling of sand production using a mesoscopic bonded particle lattice Boltzmann method
Authors: Wang Min , Feng Y.T. , Zhao Ting T. , Wang Yong
Published: January 2019

Purpose

Sand production is a challenging issue during hydrocarbon production in the oil and gas industry. This paper aims to investigate one sand production process, i.e. transient sand production, using a novel bonded particle lattice Boltzmann method. This mesoscopic technique provides a unique insight into complicated sand erosion process during oil exploitation.

Design/methodology/approach

The mesoscopic fluid-particle coupling is directly approached by the immersed moving boundary method in the framework of lattice Boltzmann method. Bonded particle method is used for resolving the deformation of solid. The onset of grain erosion of rocks, which are modelled by a bonded particle model, is realised by breaking the bonds simulating cementation when the tension or tangential force exceeds critical values.

Findings

It is proved that the complex fluid–solid interaction occurring at the pore/grain level can be well captured by the immersed moving boundary scheme in the framework of the lattice Boltzmann method. It is found that when the drawdown happens at the wellbore cavity, the tensile failure area appears at the edge of the cavity. Then, the tensile failure area gradually propagates inward, and the solid particles at the tensile failure area become fluidised because of large drag forces. Subsequently, some eroded particles are washed out. This numerical investigation is demonstrated through comparison with the experimental results. In addition, through breaking the cementation, which is simulated by bond models, between bonded particles, the transient particle erosion process is successfully captured.

Originality/value

A novel bonded particle lattice Boltzmann method is used to investigate the sand production problem at the grain level. It is proved that the complex fluid–solid interaction occurring at the pore/grain level can be well captured by the immersed moving boundary scheme in the framework of the lattice Boltzmann method. Through breaking the cementation, which is simulated by bond models, between bonded particles, the transient particle erosion process is successfully captured.
High performance work practices, organizational performance and strategic thinking
Authors: Alatailat Maher , Elrehail Hamzah , Emeagwali Okechukwu Lawrence
Published: January 2019

Purpose

Drawing on a number of strategic management theories, the purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between strategic thinking (in other words, systems perspective, focused intent, intelligent opportunism, thinking in time and hypothesis-driven analysis) and organizational performance. It also investigates whether the notion and content of high performance work practices, as identified in developed countries, can be used to amplify the effects of strategic thinking within the banking industry in a developing country.

Design/methodology/approach

Utilizing cross-sectional data obtained from commercial banks in Jordan, this paper applied structural equation modeling (SEM) to examine the banking sector in a developing country. Data were collected through self-administered questionnaires.

Findings

According to the results, focused intent, intelligent opportunism, thinking in time and hypothesis-driven analysis have positive impacts on organizational performance, except when considered from the systems perspective. Consequently, high performance work practices were found to only moderate the relationship between focused intent, intelligent opportunism, thinking in time and organizational performance.

Originality/value

The authors examined the impact of strategic thinking on the organizational performance through the moderation role of high performance work practices. The results of this paper extend the existing literature by providing evidence from Jordan, a developing country outside of the western world.
Wagner’s law and governments’ functions: granularity matters
Authors: Jalles Joao
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the responses of different categories of government spending to changes in economic activity. In other words, the authors empirically revisit the validation of the Wagner’s law in a sample of 61 advanced and emerging market economies between 1995 and 2015.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors do so via panel data instrumental variables and time-series SUR approaches.

Findings

Evidence from panel data analyses show that the Wagner’s law seems more prevalent in advanced economies and when countries are growing above potential. However, such result depends on the government spending category under scrutiny and the functional form used. Country-specific analysis revealed relatively more cases satisfying Wagner’s proposition within the emerging markets sample. The authors also found evidence of counter-cyclicality in several spending items. All in all, the Wagner’s regularity seems more the exception than the norm.

Originality/value

While in the literature on the size of the public sector with respect to a country’s level of economic development has received much attention, the authors make several novel contributions: since some economists criticized Wagner’s law because of ambiguity of the measurement of government expenditure (Musgrave, 1969), instead of looking at aggregate public expenditures, the authors go much more granular into the different functions of government (to this end, the authors use the Classification of Functions of the Government nomenclature). The authors check the validity of the Law via an instrumental variable approach in a panel setting; after that, the authors take into account the phase of the business cycle using a new filtering technique to compute potential GDP (output gap); then, the authors cross-check the baseline results by considering alternative functional form specifications of the Law; and finally, the authors look at individual countries one at the time via SUR analysis.
Asymmetric information phenomenon in the link between CEO pay and firm performance
Authors: Olaniyi Clement
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the asymmetric behavior between CEO pay and firm performance in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts a two-step dynamic panel generalized method of moments (GMM) to reveal asymmetric responses of CEO pay to positive and negative shocks in firm performance.

Findings

The research outcomes of a two-step dynamic panel GMM) adopted reveal asymmetric responses of CEO pay to positive and negative shocks in firm performance. This implies that CEOs are handsomely compensated for good performance, but not punished for poor performance.

Originality/value

The study, therefore, suggests that CEO pay fails to serve as an internal corporate governance mechanism to alleviate agency problem in Nigeria’s listed firms.
Testing the Distraction Hypothesis: Do extrafloral nectaries reduce ant‐pollinator conflict?
Authors: Villamil Nora , Boege Karina , Stone Graham N.
Published: January 2019

Ant guards protect plants from herbivores, but can also hinder pollination by damaging reproductive structures and/or repelling pollinators. Natural selection should favour the evolution of plant traits that deter ants from visiting flowers during anthesis, without waiving their defensive services. The Distraction Hypothesis posits that rewarding ants with extrafloral nectar could reduce their visitation of flowers, reducing ant‐pollinator conflict while retaining protection of other structures.

We characterised the proportion of flowers occupied by ants and the number of ants per flower in a Mexican ant‐plant,Turnera velutina. We clogged extrafloral nectaries on field plants and observed the effects on patrolling ants, pollinators and ants inside flowers, and quantified the effects on plant fitness. Based on the Distraction Hypothesis, we predicted that preventing extrafloral nectar secretion should result in fewer ants active at extrafloral nectaries, more ants inside flowers and a higher proportion of flowers occupied by ants, leading to ant‐pollinator conflict, with reduced pollinator visitation and reduced plant fitness.

Overall ant activity inside flowers was low. Preventing extrafloral nectar secretion through clogging reduced the number of ants patrolling extrafloral nectaries, significantly increased the proportion of flowers occupied by ants from 6.1% to 9.7%, and reduced plant reproductive output through a 12% increase in the probability of fruit abortion. No change in the numbers of ants or pollinators inside flowers was observed. This is the first support for the Distraction Hypothesis obtained under field conditions, showing ecological and plant fitness benefits of the distracting function of extrafloral nectar during anthesis.

Synthesis.Our study provides the first field experimental support for the Distraction Hypothesis, suggesting that extrafloral nectaries located close to flowers may bribe ants away from reproductive structures during the crucial pollination period, reducing the probability of ant occupation of flowers, reducing ant‐pollinator conflict and increasing plant reproductive success.
Effect of permafrost thaw on plant and soil fungal community in a boreal forest: Does fungal community change mediate plant productivity response?
Authors: Schütte Ursel M. E. , Henning Jeremiah A. , Ye Yuzhen , Bowling Annie , Ford James , Genet Hélène , Waldrop Mark P. , Turetsky Merritt R. , White Jeffrey R. , Bever James D.
Published: January 2019

Permafrost thaw is leading to rapid shifts in boreal ecosystem function. Permafrost thaw affects soil carbon turnover through changes in soil hydrology; however, the biotic mechanisms regulating plant community response remain elusive.

Here, we measured the response of fungal community composition and soil nutrient content in an intact permafrost plateau forest soil and an adjacent thermokarst bog and evaluated their potential to mediate shifts in plant composition.

We used barcoded amplicon targeting ITS2 and 28S rRNA genes to determine fungal community composition. Next, we used the soils from the permafrost plateau and the thermokarst bog as soil inoculum in a greenhouse experiment to measure whether shifts in fungal community and soil water level regulate plant productivity and composition.

Overall, we found that fungal community composition differed significantly between the thawed and intact permafrost sites, but soil nutrient content did not. Relative abundance of mycorrhizal fungal taxa decreased while relative abundance of putative fungal pathogens increased with permafrost thaw. In the greenhouse, we found that ecto‐ and arbuscular‐associated host plants had higher productivity in permafrost‐intact soils relative to thawed soils. However, productivity of non‐mycorrhizal tussock grass was more affected by soil water levels than soil communities.

Synthesis.Our results suggest that fungal communities are crucial in mediating plant community response to permafrost thaws inducing hydrology changes.
Perceived responsibility for developing and maintaining home–school partnerships: the experiences of parents and practitioners
Authors: Broomhead Karen E.
Published: January 2019

Encouraging partnerships between parents of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and educational practitioners is a key theme in educational policy in England. However, there are unanswered questions regarding whether parents and teachers are mutually responsible for developing and maintaining these partnerships, as well as a paucity of literature eliciting the views of educational practitioners from a SEND context. This article draws on a study which explored parent and teacher experiences of partnership, specifically focusing on perceptions of responsibility regarding the development and maintenance of these partnerships. In‐depth interviews were conducted with 22 parents of children with a wide range of SENDs, and 15 educational practitioners. Findings highlighted that although there appeared to be perceived mutual responsibility regarding home–school communication, educational practitioners were overall held accountable for developing and maintaining partnerships, and were required to be trustworthy and approachable in order for positive home–school relationships to flourish.
Changed In Translation: Greek Actives Become Gothic Passives
Authors: Kleyner Svetlana
Published: January 2019

The paper examines the translation of Greek active voice into Gothic with mediopassive or periphrastic passive. There are 13 such cases, 8 for mediopassive and 5 for periphrastic passive. While the list is rather short, the qualities of the occurrences differ drastically. The periphrastic occurrences turn out to mostly be mistakes, one of which was made by the translator and one ‐ by the scribe, or they are conspicuously close to Latin, which points to a common, but lost Greek source. The mediopassives, on the other hand, demonstrate that the Gothic mediopassive retained enough of its true middle reading to be used for translating some of the Greek unaccusative or intransitive verbs. Another interesting feature is the abundance of the causative suffix in both Greek and Gothic forms in question. The results call for a broader investigation of the strategy utilized by the Gothic translator, for example, analyzing the translations of the Greek media tantums into Gothic.
Dietary patterns and the risk of pregnancy‐associated hypertension in the Danish National Birth Cohort: a prospective longitudinal study
Authors: Ikem E , Halldorsson TI , Birgisdóttir BE , Rasmussen MA , Olsen SF , Maslova E
Published: January 2019

Objective

To examine the association between mid‐pregnancy dietary patterns and pregnancy‐associated hypertension (PAH).

Design

A prospective longitudinal cohort study.

Setting

Denmark.

Population

About 55 139 Danish women with single enrolments and recorded food frequency questionnaire dates with complete information on dietary intake.

Methods

Women were eligible if they could speak Danish and were planning to carry to term. Diet was assessed using a validated semi‐quantitative 360‐item food frequency questionnaire and dietary patterns were derived using factor analysis.

Main outcome measures

Gestational hypertension (GH) and pre‐eclampsia (PE).

Results

Disease prevalence was 14% for GH (5491/39 362); 2% for PE (1168/54 778), and 0.4% for severe PE (234/55 086). Seven dietary patterns were characterised in the population, of which two were associated with PAH. The Seafood diet characterised by high consumption of fish and vegetables was inversely associated with the odds of developing GH [odds ratio (OR) 0.86; 95% CI 0.77–0.95)] and PE (OR 0.79; 95% CI 0.65–0.97). The Western diet characterised by high consumption of potatoes (including French fries), mixed meat, margarine and white bread increased the odds of developing GH (OR 1.18; 95% CI 1.05–1.33) and PE (OR 1.40; 95% CI 1.11–1.76). No association was seen with severe PE.

Conclusions

We found protective associations of Seafood diet and harmful associations of Western diet with PAH. Dietary interventions encouraging the reduction of Western diet may contribute to a decrease of PAH.

Tweetable abstract

Western diet increases (Seafood diet decreases) the likelihood of developing pre‐eclampsia among Danish pregnant women.
The Stakes of Uncertainty: Developing and Integrating Machine Learning in Clinical Care
Authors: ELISH MADELEINE CLARE
Published: January 2019

The wide‐spread deployment of machine learning tools within healthcare is on the horizon. However, the hype around “AI” tends to divert attention toward the spectacular, and away from the more mundane and ground‐level aspects of new technologies that shape technological adoption and integration. This paper examines the development of a machine learning‐driven sepsis risk detection tool in a hospital Emergency Department in order to interrogate the contingent and deeply contextual ways in which AI technologies are likely be adopted in healthcare. In particular, the paper bring into focus the epistemological implications of introducing a machine learning‐driven tool into a clinical setting by analyzing shifting categories of trust, evidence, and authority. The paper further explores the conditions of certainty in the disciplinary contexts of data science and ethnography, and offers a potential reframing of the work of doing data science and machine learning as “computational ethnography” in order to surface potential pathways for developing effective, human‐centered AI.
Scale, Nuance, and New Expectations in Ethnographic Observation and Sensemaking
Authors: ZAFIROGLU ALEXANDRA , CHANG YEN‐NING
Published: January 2019

We consider new expectations for ethnographic observation and sensemaking in the next 20–25 years, as technology industry ethnographers’ work unfolds in the increasing presence of the type of analytical capabilities specially trained (and self‐training) machines can do ‘better’ and ‘cheaper’ than humans as they can take in, analyze and model digital data at much higher volumes and with an attention to nuance not achievable through human cognition alone. We do so by re‐imagining three of our existing ethnographic research projects with the addition of very specific applications of machine learning, computer vision, and Internet of Things sensing and connectivity technologies. We draw speculative conclusions about: (1) how data in‐and‐of‐the world that drives tech innovation will be collected and analyzed, (2) how ethnographers will approach analysis and findings, and (3) how the evidence produced by ethnographers will be evaluated and validated. We argue that these technology capabilities do offer compelling new ways to model and understand the contexts in which ethnographic encounters take place. Yet because ethnography has never been solely about describing behavior, or about testing hypotheses to ultimately generate laws, these new tools will never get us on their own to the type of truths the ethnographer values above all else: the meanings given to experiences by humans.
“The times have changed, the dope has changed”: Women's cooking roles and gender performances in shake methamphetamine markets*
Authors: Deitzer Jessica R. , Leban Lindsay , Copes Heith
Published: January 2019

Drug markets are typically portrayed as male dominated, with men occupying the higher positions and women fulfilling the lower positions. Yet, the results of recent work highlight how women's participation and experiences in drug economies varies by the structure and organization of the specific market. We focus on the shake‐and‐bake (“shake”) methamphetamine (meth) market, which seems to have emerged mainly in response to legal attempts to curtail methamphetamine production. We explore how women adapt to structural changes and how they perform gender to navigate a market in which the focus is on personal consumption instead of on monetary gain. By relying on semistructured interviews with 40 women who cooked meth, we identify the gendered strategies they adopt and how these coincide with their position in the drug market. Cooking roles took three forms (partner, lead, and team), and each role was characterized by distinct patterns of gender performance and autonomy (emphasized femininity, matriarchal control, and gender neutral). We show that certain market conditions allow for increased participation among women in meth manufacturing. Yet, even within favorable conditions, variability remains in women's positions and gender performances. The findings highlight the role of organizational and legal context in shaping both the roles women adopt in drug markets and the ways they perform gender.
Microsomal Ethanol‐Oxidizing System: Success Over 50 Years and an Encouraging Future
Authors: Teschke Rolf
Published: January 2019

Fifty years ago, in 1968, the pioneering scientists Charles S. Lieber and Leonore M. DeCarli discovered the capacity for liver microsomes to oxidize ethanol (EtOH) and named it the microsomal ethanol‐oxidizing system (MEOS), which revolutionized clinical and experimental alcohol research. The last 50 years of MEOS are now reviewed and highlighted. Since its discovery and as outlined in a plethora of studies, significant insight was gained regarding the fascinating nature of MEOS: (i) MEOS is distinct from alcohol dehydrogenase and catalase, representing a multienzyme complex with cytochrome P450 (CYP) and its preferred isoenzyme CYP 2E1, NADPH–cytochrome P450 reductase, and phospholipids; (ii) it plays a significant role in alcohol metabolism at high alcohol concentrations and after induction due to prolonged alcohol use; (iii) hydroxyl radicals and superoxide radicals promote microsomal EtOH oxidation, assisted by phospholipid peroxides; (iv) new aspects focus on microsomal oxidative stress through generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), with intermediates such as hydroxyethyl radical, ethoxy radical, acetyl radical, singlet radical, hydroxyl radical, alkoxyl radical, and peroxyl radical; (v) triggered by CYP 2E1, ROS are involved in the initiation and perpetuation of alcoholic liver injury, consequently shifting the previous nutrition‐based concept to a clear molecular‐based disease; (vi) intestinal CYP 2E1 induction and ROS are involved in endotoxemia, leaky gut, and intestinal microbiome modifications, together with hepatic CYP 2E1 and liver injury; (vii) circulating blood CYP 2E1 exosomes may be of diagnostic value; (viii) circadian rhythms provide high MEOS activities associated with significant alcohol metabolism and potential toxicity risks as a largely neglected topic; and (ix) a variety of genetic animal models are useful and have been applied elucidating mechanistic aspects of MEOS. In essence, MEOS along with its CYP 2E1 component currently explains several mechanistic steps leading to alcoholic liver injury and has a promising future in alcohol research.
When are dividend increases bad for corporate bonds?
Authors: Wei Xiaoting , Truong Cameron , Do Viet
Published: January 2019

Employing an event study approach, we examine 5,574 bond return reactions to unexpected quarterly dividend change announcements in the U.S. corporate bond market over the period 2002–2014. On average, bond price reaction is in the same direction as dividend changes, which supports the hypothesis that dividend changes signal future firm performance. However, the price reaction varies significantly in the spectrum of bond's risk. Importantly, we document that some bondholders react negatively to unexpected dividend increases, indicating a wealth transfer effect. Such wealth transfer effect is most likely to occur in very high risk bond approaching maturity issued by firms with a low level of cash and incorporated outside Delaware.
Reconsolidation impairment of reward memory by stimulating stress response
Authors: Dinter Christina , Hermann Derik , Heckmann Judith , Hill Holger , Reinhard Iris , Vollstädt‐Klein Sabine , Kirsch Peter , Kiefer Falk
Published: January 2019

Research in memory reconsolidation has raised hope for new treatment options of persistent psychiatric disorders like substance dependence and post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). While animal research showed successful memory modification by interfering with reconsolidation, human research requires less invasive techniques. In our pilot study, we aimed to reduce appetitive memory reconsolidation of a newly acquired reward memory by exerting a stressor. Thirty healthy participants were randomly assigned to two groups performing a monetary reward paradigm at a personal computer. Day 1 was considered to allow for memory acquisition; on day 2, the experimental group was exposed to a frightening stimulus in the reconsolidation window; and day 3 again served to determine reward memory effects. Measures of reward memory were reaction times to reward announcing stimuli (ie, showing instrumental behavior), actual reward gained, and electrodermal response as a measure for reward anticipation. We found significantly smaller reaction time improvements to reward stimuli over time in the experimental group, as well as reduced achievements in monetary reward. Electrodermal response to reward announcing stimuli was lower in the experimental group after intervention, whereas it was higher in the untreated group. Thus, we argue in favor of the reconsolidation hypothesis, assuming our intervention had successfully interfered with the reconsolidation process. This points towards future treatment options that interfere with an addiction memory.
The distribution of allied dental practitioners in australia: socio‐economics and rurality as a driver of better health service accessibility
Authors: Jean G , Kruger E , Tennant M
Published: January 2019

Objectives

Analysis of the distribution of allied dental practitioners relative to the socio‐economic profile of the population, to develop a baseline of employment demographics at a time of proposed deregulation of practicing restrictions.

Methods

A database of allied dental practitioners (ADP – oral health therapists, dental therapists and dental hygienists) was compiled from the public access register of the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency. The principal practice locations limited to suburb and postcode were geocoded by latitude and longitude and superimposed on a map of the Australian landmass using QGIS software. Using Australian Bureau of Statistics data, the number of ADPs for each Statistical Area 2 (SA2) was counted and apportioned according to proportion of the population within each SA2 for each quintile of the Index of Relative Socio‐economic Disadvantage (IRSD). The results were reported according to oral health therapists, dental therapists and dental hygienists per 100 000 population for each IRSD quintile, by state and territory, and the Australian Regional Index for Areas (ARIA+).

Results

The ADP to population ratio was not consistent for each professional class between states and territories, IRSD quintiles and (ARIA+) regional areas. Across major cities, South Australia was the state with the highest ratio of oral health therapists (10.6–12.9) and dental hygienists (14.6–24.5) for all IRSD quintiles. Western Australia had the highest ratio of dental therapists (9.3–16.0),

Conclusion

There is no consistent pattern of distribution of ADPs relative to the socio‐economic profile of the population across states and territories, and regional (ARIA+) areas of Australia.
The probing behaviour of the planthopperDelphacodes kuscheli(Hemiptera: Delphacidae) on two alternating hosts, maize and oat
Authors: Brentassi María E , Machado‐Assefh Cristina R , Alvarez Adriana E
Published: January 2019

Delphacodes kuscheliis the most important natural vector of Mal de Río Cuarto virus (MRCV) in Argentina, aFijivirus(Reoviridae) that causes important economic losses on maize production. Although this planthopper does not breed successfully on maize, virus transmission occurs when adults migrate from oat, a winter host and a reservoir of the virus, to maize. Probing behaviour on both hosts was recorded and analysed using the direct current electrical penetration graph (DC‐EPG) system. Eight main waveforms were identified during probing behaviour byD. kuscheli. These waveforms were interpreted with reference to that described for delphacids and were related to putative probing activities: np (non‐penetration or non‐probe); N1, N2 and N3 (stylet pathway: penetration, salivation, stylet movement and extracellular activities near the phloem region); N4‐a (sieve element salivation); N4‐b (phloem sap ingestion); N5 (xylem activity); and N6 (derailed stylet mechanics). The EPG variables showed that on maize,D. kuscheliexhibited longer periods of non‐probe and longer time from first probe to first phloem activity, with a higher percentage of probing spent in stylet pathway and xylem phase than on oat. Furthermore, on maize, fewer insects showed phloem phase activities (N4‐a and N4‐b) and sustained phloem ingestion than on oat, and the time on phloem ingestion was shorter than on oat. The constrained behaviour ofD. kuschelion maize suggests that plant resistance factors may be involved.
Expression of B and T lymphocyte attenuator, retinoid‐related orphan receptor gamma‐isoform‐t and interleukin 7 in psoriasis vulgaris
Authors: Youssef Randa Mohammed , El‐Ramly Amany Zaki , Hussien Marwa Fathy , Shoukry Nadia Mohamed , Amr Khalda
Published: January 2019

Background/Objectives

Psoriasis is one of the immune‐mediated inflammatory diseases where CD4+ T lymphocytes, mainly Th1 cells, and B lymphocytes contribute in their pathogenesis through a pro‐inflammatory effect, production of antibodies, activation of T cells and cytokine synthesis. B and T lymphocyte attenuator (BTLA) is a co‐inhibitory molecule expressed on T and B lymphocytes as well as other immune cells, and it is necessary to inhibit homoeostatic expansion and activation of lymph node and skin‐resident γδ T cells. BTLA expression is regulated by RORγt and IL‐7. The study aimed at adding more insight on the role played by co‐inhibitory molecule BTLA in psoriasis vulgaris and its inter‐relation with RORγt and IL‐7 to establish a basis for novel treatment strategies.

Methods

This case–control study included 25 patients and 25 controls examined for gene expression of BTLA, RORγt and IL‐7.

Results

B and T lymphocyte attenuator was significantly lower in psoriasis patients, whereas both RORγt and IL‐7 were higher in comparison with controls. A significant positive correlation between disease severity (PASI) and both RORγt and IL‐7 as well as between RORγt and IL‐7 was found. A significant negative correlation between BTLA and both RORγt and IL‐7 was found. Neither the age nor the duration of disease had any correlation with BTLA, RORγt or IL‐7. BTLA had no correlation with PASI. Regarding the control group, a significant negative correlation between RORγt and IL‐7 was found.

Conclusion

B and T lymphocyte attenuator, RORγt and IL‐7 play an important role in psoriasis.
Multiple benign adnexal tumours: Anything but benign
Authors: McCarthy Rose‐Lynn , Thomas Charlotte L , Isaacs Frank
Published: January 2019

Muir Torre syndrome is an autosomal dominant disorder characterised by germline mutations in mismatch repair genes involved in DNA repair, leading to microsatellite instability and a propensity to tumour formation. We report a case of a 67‐year‐old gentleman who underwent biopsy of a smooth nodular lesion on the nasal tip, histopathologically consistent with sebaceous adenoma. Immunohistochemistry suggested a loss of MSH6. Subsequent colonoscopy identified a poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma, with loss of staining for MSH6 and a germline mutation identified on genetic analysis. These findings were consistent with a diagnosis of Muir Torre syndrome. Whilst there is controversy in the literature regarding universal screening for Muir Torre syndrome, the early detection of visceral neoplasms is crucial. The authors strongly support screening for Muir Torre syndrome (with patient consent) upon discovery of a cutaneous sebaceous neoplasm, even in the absence of a personal or family history of visceral malignancy.
Nonclassical pemphigus with exclusively IgG anti‐desmocollin 3‐specific antibodies
Authors: Iranzo Pilar , Ishii Norito , Hashimoto Takashi , Alsina‐Gibert Mercé
Published: January 2019

We describe a patient with nonclassical clinical and histopathological features of pemphigus with exclusively IgG antibodies against desmocollin (Dsc) 3 detected by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay of recombinant eukaryotic protein of Dsc1‐Dsc3. The absence of antibodies against other known targets, such as desmogleins, reinforces the role of anti‐Dsc antibodies in the pathophysiology of atypical pemphigus.
Why Regulation Is Needed in Emerging Markets in the Tourism Sector
Authors: María Martín‐Martín Jose , Ostos‐Rey María S. , Salinas‐Fernández Jose A.
Published: January 2019

The neoclassical ideal has defended the idea that markets, in a context of limited regulation, reach an optimal equilibrium automatically. We analyze this assertion in an applied manner with a case study of the emerging online market of intermediation of tourist apartments. The lack of regulation in this market causes many social and economic impacts on local communities, which can jeopardize the survival of the activity. We conclude that an analysis of markets that considers only prices results in a limited view. All externalities and their effects on the population must be taken into account, as well as the interests of the individuals involved, apart from profit‐making.
Lectin pathway proteins of the complement system in normotensive pregnancy and pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Larsen Julie Brogaard , Andersen Anita Sylvest , Hvas Christine Lodberg , Thiel Steffen , Lassen Michael Rud , Hvas Anne‐Mette , Hansen Anette Tarp
Published: January 2019

Problem

The lectin pathway of the complement system may be involved in the pathogenesis of pre‐eclampsia. We aimed to investigate changes in serum concentrations of a broad range of lectin pathway proteins during normal pregnancy and their association with pre‐eclampsia, placental infarctions and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR).

Method of study

We included 51 women with normotensive pregnancies and 54 women with pregnancies complicated by pre‐eclampsia. Blood samples were obtained at gestational weeks 16, 33, 37, and after delivery for the normotensive pregnant women and before and after delivery for women with pre‐eclampsia. Mannose‐binding lectin (MBL), H‐ and M‐ficolin, collectin liver‐1 (CL‐L1), MBL‐associated serine protease (MASP)‐1, MASP‐2 and MASP‐3 and MBL‐associated proteins of 19 (MAp19) and 44 (MAp44) kDa were analysed. Clinical information was obtained from medical records. The placentae were examined by two experienced perinatal pathologists.

Results

Lectin pathway protein concentrations generally increased during normal pregnancy and decreased after delivery in both normotensive pregnant women and women with pre‐eclampsia. Exceptions were MASP‐3 which increased after delivery in both groups (P < 0.0001) and H‐ficolin which increased after delivery in pre‐eclampsia (P < 0.0001). H‐ficolin (P < 0.0001), M‐ficolin (P = 0.005) and MASP‐3 (P = 0.03) concentrations were lower in women with pre‐eclampsia than in normotensive pregnant women. Low MASP‐3 concentrations were associated with placental infarction (P = 0.03) and IUGR (P = 0.04). Low H‐ficolin concentrations were associated with IUGR (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

In general, lectin pathway protein serum concentrations increased during normal pregnancy. H‐ficolin and MASP‐3 may be involved in the pathophysiology of pre‐eclampsia and IUGR and could be potential future pre‐eclampsia biomarkers.
Novel approach to intraoperative peritoneal lavage with an extracorporeal stirring method in laparoscopic surgery for generalized peritonitis: Preliminary results
Authors: Yasui Kohei , Ishiguro Seiji , Komatsu Shunichiro , Matsumura Tatsuki , Komaya Kenichi , Saito Takuya , Arikawa Takashi , Kaneko Kenitiro , Sano Tsuyoshi
Published: January 2019

Introduction

The primary concern with laparoscopic intraoperative peritoneal lavage (IOPL) for generalized peritonitis relates to the difficulty and uncertainty in ensuring adequate washout of contaminated fluid. Here, we describe a new method of laparoscopy‐assisted IOPL.

Methods

We performed emergency surgery in 10 patients with generalized peritonitis necessitating IOPL. A small wound retractor was inserted into the abdominal cavity through an incision and elevated to raise the abdominal wall. More than 3‐L saline was injected via the retractor at one time. The abdomen was manually shaken by pressure from outside the body. Contaminated fluid was removed with a long suction device through the retractor. This procedure was repeated until the fluid was confirmed to be transparent by laparoscopy, and then drains were placed.

Results

Median lavage time was 23.5 minutes (range, 15‐34 minutes), and volume of lavage fluid was 19 L (range, 10‐20 L). Median time to resumption of fluid intake was 3 days (range, 1‐12 days), time to food intake was 6 days (range, 3‐14 days), and time to first bowel movement was 5 days (range, 3‐10 days). Median duration of antibiotic use was 8.5 days (range, 5‐15 days). Complications were one case of antibiotic‐induced rash, two cases of paralytic ileus, and one case of pelvic abscess. All patients recovered well without additional surgical intervention.

Conclusions

This new approach to laparoscopy‐assisted IOPL was feasible for these patients with generalized peritonitis. This procedure enabled corpus lavage to be performed in a similarly short time to open surgery but with less invasiveness. Further research is needed to confirm indications and long‐term outcomes.
Monoclinal flexure of an orogenic plateau margin during subduction, south Turkey
Authors: Fernández‐Blanco David , Bertotti Giovanni , Aksu Ali , Hall Jeremy
Published: January 2019

Geologic evidence across orogenic plateau margins enables the discrimination of the relative contributions of orogenic, epeirogenic and/or climatic processes that lead to growth and maintenance of those plateaus and their margins. Here, we discuss the mode of formation of the southern margin of the Central Anatolian Plateau (SCAP) and evaluate its time of formation using fieldwork in the onshore and seismic reflection data in the offshore. In the onshore, uplifted Miocene rocks in a dip‐slope topography show monocline flexure over >100 km, km‐scale asymmetric folds verging south, and outcrop‐scale syn‐sedimentary reverse faults. On the Turkish shelf, vertical faults transect the basal latest Messinian of a 10 km fold where on‐structure syntectonic wedges and synsedimentary unconformities indicate pre‐Pliocene uplift and erosion, followed by Pliocene and younger deformation. Collectively, Miocene rocks delineate a flexural monocline at plateau margin scale that is expressed along our on‐offshore sections as a kink‐band fold with a steep flank 20–25 km long. In these reconstructed sections, we estimate a relative vertical displacement of 3.8 km at rates of ca. 0.5 mm/y, and horizontal shortening values <1 %. We use this evidence together with our observations of shortening at outcrop, basin, plateau‐margin and forearc‐system scales to infer that the SCAP forms as a monoclinal flexure to accommodate deep‐seated thickening and shortening since >5 Ma, and to contextualize the plateau margin as the forearc high of the Cyprus subduction system.
Delayed Disaster Impacts on Academic Performance of Primary School Children
Authors: Gibbs Lisa , Nursey Jane , Cook Janette , Ireton Greg , Alkemade Nathan , Roberts Michelle , Gallagher H. Colin , Bryant Richard , Block Karen , Molyneaux Robyn , Forbes David
Published: January 2019

Social disruption caused by natural disasters often interrupts educational opportunities for children. However, little is known about children's learning in the following years. This study examined change in academic scores for children variably exposed to a major bushfire in Australia. Comparisons were made between children attending high, medium, and low disaster‐affected primary schools 2–4 years after the disaster (n = 24,642; 9–12 years). The results showed that in reading and numeracy expected gains from Year 3 to Year 5 scores were reduced in schools with higher levels of bushfire impact. The findings highlight the extended period of academic impact and identify important opportunities for intervention in the education system to enable children to achieve their academic potential.
Adoption breakdown and adolescence
Authors: Paniagua Carmen , Palacios Jesús , Jiménez‐Morago Jesús M.
Published: January 2019

Adoption breakdown has attracted an increasing amount of attention over recent years, and studies coincide in stating that the mean age at which this phenomenon occurs is early adolescence. Nevertheless, the specific factors which influence adoption breakdown, have never been empirically explored. The aim of this article is therefore to analyse these factors by comparing cases of adoption breakdown which occurred prior to the onset of adolescence with those occurring after the beginning of this developmental stage. The study explores 69 cases of adoption breakdown occurring over the course of a decade in one Spanish region, taking into consideration variables related to the adopted children, the adoptive parents, the parent–child relationship, and the professional support services provided to these families. The results reveal a clear difference in the profile of breakdowns occurring before and after the onset of adolescence and identify a series of factors which seem to have a stronger influence in each group, such as violence, timing of problems, and unrealistic expectations regarding the child. These findings have important implications for professional adoption services, such us the importance of early identification of difficulties and the provision of support during adolescence.
Batroxobin in combination with anticoagulation may promote venous sinus recanalization in cerebral venous thrombosis: A real‐world experience
Authors: Ding Jia‐Yue , Pan Li‐Qun , Hu Yan‐Yu , Rajah Gary B. , Zhou Da , Bai Chao‐Bo , Ya Jing‐Yuan , Wang Zhong‐Ao , Jin Ke‐Xin , Guan Jing‐Wei , Ding Yu‐Chuan , Ji Xun‐Ming , Meng Ran
Published: January 2019

Aims

The objective of this study was to evaluate cerebral venous recanalization with magnetic resonance black‐blood thrombus imaging (MRBTI) in patients with cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) who underwent batroxobin treatment in combination with anticoagulation.

Methods

A total of 31 CVT patients were enrolled in this real‐world registry study. The patients were divided into batroxobin (n = 21) and control groups (n = 10). In addition to the same standard anticoagulation as in the control group, patients in the batroxobin group underwent intravenous batroxobin for a total of three times.

Results

In the batroxobin group compared with the control group, we found better odds of recanalization degree [adjusted OR (95%CI) of 8.10 (1.61‐40.7)] and segment‐stenosis attenuation [adjusted OR (95%CI) of 4.48 (1.69‐11.9)] with batroxobin treatment. We further noted a higher ratio of patients with the attenuation of stenosis [adjusted OR (95%CI) of 26.4 (1.10‐635)]; as well as a higher ratio of segments with stenosis reversion [adjusted OR (95%CI) of 4.52 (1.48‐13.8)]. However, neurological deficits between the two groups showed no statistical difference at 90‐day follow‐up (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Batroxobin may promote venous sinus recanalization and attenuate CVT‐induced stenosis. Further randomized study of this promising drug may be warranted to better delineate the amount of benefit.
National contributions to global ecosystem values
Authors: Coristine Laura E. , Colla Sheila , Bennett Nathan , Carlsson Anja M. , Davy Christina , Davies Kimberley T.A. , Favaro Brett , Flockhart D.T. Tyler , Fraser Kevin , Orihel Diane , Otto Sarah P. , Palen Wendy , Polfus Jean L. , Venter Oscar , Ford Adam T.
Published: January 2019

Current conservation templates prioritize biogeographic regions with high intensity ecosystem values, such as exceptional species richness or threat. Intensity‐based targets are an important consideration in global efforts, but they do not capture all available opportunities to conserve ecosystem values, including those that accrue in low intensity over large areas. We assess six globally‐significant ecosystem values—intact wilderness, freshwater availability, productive marine environments, breeding habitat for migratory wildlife, soil carbon storage, and latitudinal potential for range shift in the face of climate change—to highlight opportunities for high‐impact broadly‐distributed contributions to global conservation. Nations can serve as a cohesive block of policy that can profoundly influence conservation outcomes. Contributions to global ecosystem values that exceed what is predicted by a nation's area alone, can give rise to countries with the capacity to act as ‘conservation superpowers’, such as Canada and Russia. For these conservation superpowers, a relatively small number of national policies can have environmental repercussions for the rest of the world.