bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Board diversity and CSR reporting: an Australian study
Authors: Rao Kathyayini , Tilt Carol
Published: June 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the relationship between corporate governance, in particular board diversity, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) reporting among the top 150 listed companies in Australia over a three-year period.

Design/methodology/approach

The quantitative analysis involving a longitudinal study is used where content analysis is undertaken to analyse the extent of CSR disclosures in annual reports. Regression analysis using panel data is used to analyse the potential association between CSR disclosure and five important board diversity measures, specifically independence, tenure, gender, multiple directorships and overall diversity measure.

Findings

The results based on the regression analysis reveal that three of the board diversity attributes (gender, tenure and multiple directorships) and the overall diversity measure have the potential to influence CSR reporting. The relationship between independent/non-executive directors and CSR disclosure however is unclear. In addition, three of the control variables (firm size, industry and CEO duality) are found to have some influence on CSR disclosure, whereas board size and profitability are found to be insignificant. The results also indicate the existence of some possible interaction effects between gender and multiple directorships.

Originality/value

The paper has implications for companies, for policymakers and for the professional development needs of board members. Australian companies should consider identifying board attributes that enhance CSR disclosures, as it has been shown in previous studies that CSR disclosure in Australia is low when compared to other developed countries. Moreover, given that there is such limited research linking board diversity and CSR disclosure, the results of this paper provide scope for further research. Moreover the paper contributes to the existing literature on board composition and CSR disclosure by extending the literature to board diversity and provides preliminary evidence of the influence of board diversity on CSR disclosure in Australia.
Hotel chain development pipelines in Africa: implications for human capital development
Authors: Ward Trevor
Published: June 2016

Purpose

Hotel development in Africa is at an all-time high, as entrepreneurs and institutional investors recognise and understand the opportunities, and as the international brands identify the gaps in their system coverage. The purpose of this paper is to quantify the chains’ future development pipelines and the requirement for human capital in those hotels.

Design/methodology/approach

Information was obtained from the international and regional (African) hotel chains that are signing deals to manage and brand new hotels in Africa, including location, number of rooms, brand and expected opening date. From this, a calculation was made regarding the number of jobs that will be created at different levels.

Findings

The findings show the number of hotels in the chains’ development pipeline in Nigeria and the human capital requirement in those hotels.

Practical implications

Governments, investors, operators and educators can benefit from the findings presented and develop relevant policies that will impact positively on human capital in Africa.

Originality/value

This paper outlines the impact of hotel growth on human capital needs in Africa.
When You Know Your Neighbour Pays Taxes: Information, Peer Effects and Tax Compliance
Authors: Alm James , Bloomquist Kim M. , McKee Michael
Published: June 2016

In this paper, we suggest that individuals’ tax compliance behaviours are affected by the behaviour of their ‘neighbours’, or those about whom they may have information, whom they may know, or with whom they may interact on a regular basis. Individuals are more likely to file and to report their taxes when they believe that other individuals are also filing and reporting their taxes; conversely, when individuals believe that others are cheating on their taxes, they may well become cheaters themselves. We use experimental methods to test the role of such information about peer effects on compliance behaviour. In one treatment setting, we inform individuals about the frequency that their neighbours submit a tax return. In a second treatment setting, we inform them about the number of their neighbours who are audited, together with the penalties that they pay. In both cases, we examine the impact of information on filing behaviour and also on subsequent reporting behaviour. We find that providing information on whether one's neighbours are filing returns and/or reporting income has a statistically significant and economically large impact on individual filing and reporting decisions. However, this ‘neighbour’ information does not always improve compliance, depending on the exact content of the information.
Multiple foci of commitment in a professional service firm: balancing complex employment relations
Authors: Olsen Karen M. , Sverdrup Therese , Nesheim Torstein , Kalleberg Arne L.
Published: June 2016

Employees of professional service firms (PSFs) have attachments to multiple groups, which may be either compatible or conflicting: their employer, their clients and their profession. We analyse the antecedents of commitment to these three foci based on a survey of 510 employees in a large PSF in Norway. The main findings are as follows: (1) low quality of internal work relations is negatively associated with employer commitment and draws employees towards external foci of commitment – the clients and the profession; (2) role conflict is associated with stronger commitment to the client organisation and the profession; and (3) autonomy and transferability of skills are associated with stronger commitment to the profession, but does not undermine commitment to the employer. The article contributes to our understanding of the conditions under which employees identify with external groups and when commitment to the employer may be compromised. The findings have implications for how managers can help to increase the commitment of employees involved in complex employment relations.
The incretin hormone GLP‐1 and mechanisms underlying its secretion
Authors: Tian Lili , Jin Tianru
Published: June 2016

Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) is a cell type‐specific post‐translational product of proglucagon. It is encoded by the proglucagon gene and released primarily from intestinal endocrine L‐cells in response to hormonal, neuronal, and nutritional stimuli. In addition to serving as an incretin in mediating the effect of meal consumption on insulin secretion, GLP‐1 exerts other functions in pancreatic islets, including regulation of β‐cell proliferation and protection of β‐cells against metabolic stresses. Furthermore, GLP‐1 exerts numerous other functions in extrapancreatic organs, whereas brain GLP‐1 signaling controls satiety. Herein we review the discovery of two incretins and the development of GLP‐1‐based drugs. We also describe the development of cellular models for studying mechanisms underlying GLP‐1 secretion over the past 30 years. However, the main content of this review is a summary of studies on the exploration of mechanisms underlying GLP‐1 secretion. We not only summarize studies conducted over the past three decades on elucidating the role of nutritional components and hormonal factors in regulating GLP‐1 secretion, but also present a few very recent studies showing the possible role of dietary polyphenols. Finally, the emerging role of gut microbiota in metabolic homeostasis with the potential implication on GLP‐1 secretion is discussed.
Characterization and analysis of a de novo transcriptome from the pygmy grasshopper Tetrix japonica
Authors: Qiu Zhongying , Liu Fei , Lu Huimeng , Huang Yuan
Published: June 2016

The pygmy grasshopper Tetrix japonica is a common insect distributed throughout the world, and it has the potential for use in studies of body colour polymorphism, genomics and the biology of Tetrigoidea (Insecta: Orthoptera). However, limited biological information is available for this insect. Here, we conducted a de novo transcriptome study of adult and larval T. japonica to provide a better understanding of its gene expression and develop genomic resources for future work. We sequenced and explored the characteristics of the de novo transcriptome of T. japonica using Illumina HiSeq 2000 platform. A total of 107 608 206 paired‐end clean reads were assembled into 61 141 unigenes using the trinity software; the mean unigene size was 771 bp, and the N50 length was 1238 bp. A total of 29 225 unigenes were functionally annotated to the NCBI nonredundant protein sequences (Nr), NCBI nonredundant nucleotide sequences (Nt), a manually annotated and reviewed protein sequence database (Swiss‐Prot), Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) databases. A large number of putative genes that are potentially involved in pigment pathways, juvenile hormone (JH) metabolism and signalling pathways were identified in the T. japonica transcriptome. Additionally, 165 769 and 156 796 putative single nucleotide polymorphisms occurred in the adult and larvae transcriptomes, respectively, and a total of 3162 simple sequence repeats were detected in this assembly. This comprehensive transcriptomic data for T. japonica will provide a usable resource for gene predictions, signalling pathway investigations and molecular marker development for this species and other pygmy grasshoppers.
The Development of Best Practice Recommendations to Support the Hiring, Recruitment, and Advancement of Women Physicians in Emergency Medicine
Authors: Choo Esther K. , Kass Dara , Westergaard Mary , Watts Susan H. , Berwald Nicole , Regan Linda , Promes Susan B. , Clem Kathleen J. , Schneider Sandra M. , Kuhn Gloria J. , Abbuhl Stephanie , Nobay Flavia
Published: June 2016

Background

Women in medicine continue to experience disparities in earnings, promotion, and leadership roles. There are few guidelines in place defining organization‐level factors that promote a supportive workplace environment beneficial to women in emergency medicine (EM). We assembled a working group with the goal of developing specific and feasible recommendations to support women's professional development in both community and academic EM settings.

Methods

We formed a working group from the leadership of two EM women's organizations, the Academy of Women in Academic Emergency Medicine (AWAEM) and the American Association of Women Emergency Physicians (AAWEP). Through a literature search and discussion, working group members identified four domains where organizational policies and practices supportive of women were needed: 1) global approaches to supporting the recruitment, retention, and advancement of women in EM; 2) recruitment, hiring, and compensation of women emergency physicians; 3) supporting development and advancement of women in EM; and 4) physician health and wellness (in the context of pregnancy, childbirth, and maternity leave). Within each of these domains, the working group created an initial set of specific recommendations. The working group then recruited a stakeholder group of EM physician leaders across the country, selecting for diversity in practice setting, geographic location, age, race, and gender. Stakeholders were asked to score and provide feedback on each of the recommendations. Specific recommendations were retained by the working group if they achieved high rates of approval from the stakeholder group for importance and perceived feasibility. Those with >80% agreement on importance and >50% agreement on feasibility were retained. Finally, recommendations were posted in an open online forum (blog) and invited public commentary.

Results

An initial set of 29 potential recommendations was created by the working group. After stakeholder voting and feedback, 16 final recommendations were retained. Recommendations were refined through qualitative comments from stakeholders and blog respondents.

Conclusions

Using a consensus building process that included male and female stakeholders from both academic and community EM settings, we developed recommendations for organizations to implement to create a workplace environment supportive of women in EM that were perceived as acceptable and feasible. This process may serve as a model for other medical specialties to establish clear, discrete organization‐level practices aimed at supporting women physicians.
The cat lipocalin Fel d 7 and its cross‐reactivity with the dog lipocalin Can f 1
Authors: Apostolovic D. , Sánchez‐Vidaurre S. , Waden K. , Curin M. , Grundström J. , Gafvelin G. , Cirkovic Velickovic T. , Grönlund H. , Thomas W. R. , Valenta R. , Hamsten C. , van Hage M.
Published: June 2016

We investigated the prevalence of sensitization to the cat lipocalin Fel d 7 among 140 cat‐sensitized Swedish patients and elucidated its allergenic activity and cross‐reactivity with the dog lipocalin Can f 1. Sixty‐five of 140 patients had IgE to rFel d 7 whereof 60 also had IgE to rCan f 1. A moderate correlation between IgE levels to rFel d 7 and rCan f 1 was found. rFel d 7 activated basophils in vitro and inhibited IgE binding to rCan f 1 in 4 of 13 patients, whereas rCan f 1 inhibited IgE binding to rFel d 7 in 7 of 13 patients. Fel d 7 and Can f 1 showed high similarities in protein structure and epitopes in common were found using cross‐reactive antisera. Fel d 7 is a common allergen in a Swedish cat‐sensitized population that cross‐reacts with Can f 1, and may contribute to symptoms in cat‐ but also in dog‐allergic patients.
Exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals and neurodevelopmental alterations
Authors: Pinson A. , Bourguignon J. P. , Parent A. S.
Published: June 2016

The developing brain is remarkably malleable as neural circuits are formed and these circuits are strongly dependent on hormones for their development. For those reasons, the brain is very vulnerable to the effects of endocrine‐disrupting chemicals (EDCs) during critical periods of development. This review focuses on three ubiquitous endocrine disruptors that are known to disrupt the thyroid function and are associated with neurobehavioral deficits: polychlorinated biphenyls, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, and bisphenol A. The human and rodent data suggesting effects of those EDCs on memory, cognition, and social behavior are discussed. Their mechanisms of action go beyond relative hypothyroidism with effects on neurotransmitter release and calcium signaling.
Assessment of subjective intraocular forward scattering and quality of vision after posterior chamber phakic intraocular lens with a central hole (Hole ICL) implantation
Authors: Iijima Ayaka , Shimizu Kimiya , Yamagishi Mayumi , Kobashi Hidenaga , Igarashi Akihito , Kamiya Kazutaka
Published: June 2016

Purpose

To evaluate the subjective intraocular forward scattering and quality of vision after posterior chamber phakic intraocular lens with a central hole (Hole ICL, STAAR Surgical) implantation.

Methods

We prospectively examined 29 eyes of 29 consecutive patients (15 men and 14 women; ages, 37.2 ± 8.8 years) undergoing Hole ICL implantation. We assessed the values of the logarithmic straylight value [log (s)] using a straylight meter (C‐Quant™, Oculus) preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively. The patients completed a questionnaire detailing symptoms on a quantitative grading scale (National Eye Institute Refractive Error Quality of Life Instrument‐42; NEI RQL‐42) 3 months postoperatively. We compared the preoperative and postoperative values of the log(s) and evaluated the correlation of these values with patient subjective symptoms.

Results

The mean log(s) was not significantly changed, from 1.07 ± 0.20 preoperatively, to 1.06 ± 0.17 postoperatively (Wilcoxon signed‐rank test, p = 0.641). There was a significant correlation between the preoperative and postoperative log(s) (Spearman's correlation coefficient r = 0.695, p < 0.001). The postoperative log(s) was significantly associated with the scores of glare in the questionnaire (Spearman's correlation coefficient r = −0.575, p = 0.017).

Conclusions

According to our experience, Hole ICL implantation does not induce a significant additional change in the subjective intraocular forward scattering. The symptom of glare after Hole ICL implantation was significantly correlated with the postoperative intraocular forward scattering in relation to the preoperative one.
A Danish Survey of Antihistamine Use and Poisoning Patterns
Authors: Jensen Louise Line , Rømsing Janne , Dalhoff Kim
Published: June 2016

The first‐generation antihistamine, promethazine, became a prescription‐only drug in Denmark as of December 2014. First‐generation antihistamines are known to have a higher toxic potential than second‐generation antihistamines. The aim of this study was to provide a nationwide description of the antihistamine use and poisoning pattern from 2007 to 2013 in Denmark based on two independent databases. There were 1049 antihistamine exposures in the national, advisory telephone service specialized in poisonings, the Danish Poison and Information Centre (DPIC), and 456 exposures in the three registers used within the State Serum Institute of Denmark (SSI), a department under the Danish Ministry of Health dealing with research‐based health surveillance in Denmark. First‐generation antihistamines constitute 61% and 73% of antihistamine registrations in DPIC and SSI, respectively. Antihistamine exposures increased by 7 exposures/10,000 enquiries per year in DPIC and six admissions per year in SSI – this increase is not significant due to a sudden decrease in 2012. Intentional exposures constituted 65% in DPIC of which 82% was due to suicide attempts, and 78% of the involved antihistamines were first‐generation antihistamines. Accidental exposures constituted 33% of which 61% were due to play and 29% involved first‐generation antihistamines. Single antihistamine exposures constituted 65% of DPIC exposures of which 98% involved only one brand of antihistamine. Multidrug exposures constituted 35% of DPIC exposures with equally distributed coingestants. Hospitalization was recommended in 78% of DPIC exposures. Admissions required only 1‐day of treatment in 91% of the SSI exposures. One of the 14 identified deaths in the SSI study population was directly related to antihistamine poisoning. Results support the limited disclosure of promethazine in Denmark and illustrate a generation‐specific pattern indicating a suspected replacement of promethazine with other first‐generation antihistamines.
Timing of Gestures: Gestures Anticipating or Simultaneous With Speech as Indexes of Text Comprehension in Children and Adults
Authors: Ianì Francesco , Cutica Ilaria , Bucciarelli Monica
Published: June 2016

The deep comprehension of a text is tantamount to the construction of an articulated mental model of that text. The number of correct recollections is an index of a learner's mental model of a text. We assume that another index of comprehension is the timing of the gestures produced during text recall; gestures are simultaneous with speech when the learner has built an articulated mental model of the text, whereas they anticipate the speech when the learner has built a less articulated mental model. The results of four experiments confirm the predictions deriving from our assumptions for both children and adults. Provided that the recollections are correct, the timing of gestures can differ and can be considered a further measure of the quality of the mental model, beyond the number of correct recollections.
Crystalline methamphetamine use and methamphetamine‐related harms in Australia
Authors: Degenhardt Louisa , Sara Grant , McKetin Rebecca , Roxburgh Amanda , Dobbins Timothy , Farrell Michael , Burns Lucinda , Hall Wayne D.
Published: June 2016

Introduction and Aims

Concerns about crystal methamphetamine use and harm have increased in multiple countries. This paper describes how changes in the availability and use of crystal methamphetamine have impacted on methamphetamine‐related harms in Australia.

Design and Methods

Data on methamphetamine use were obtained from population‐level surveys, health service data and surveys of drug use among sentinel groups of ecstasy users and people who inject drugs. Data were obtained on seizures, arrests, clandestine laboratory detections, hospital separations, mental health unit admissions, drug telephone helpline calls and drug treatment episodes. Segmented linear regression models were fitted to identify changes in these series using log‐transformed data where appropriate.

Results

The availability of crystal methamphetamine has increased as evidenced by increased laboratory detections, domestic seizures and purity of the seized drug. Population surveys do not report an increase in the number of people who used at least once in the past year. However, more users report using crystal methamphetamine rather than lower‐purity powder methamphetamine and more regular use. Indicators of methamphetamine‐related harms have increased in parallel with this change. Amphetamine‐related helpline calls, drug treatment, arrests and hospital admissions for amphetamine disorders and psychosis all peaked in the mid‐2000s, declined for several years and have increased steeply since 2010.

Discussion and Conclusions

The increased availability and use of crystal methamphetamine have been associated with increased regular use and harms. Treatment is required for those experiencing problems and the capacity of health services to provide care needs to be enhanced.[Degenhardt L, Sara G, Connor JP, McKetin R, Roxburgh A, Dobbins T, Farrell M, Burns L, Hall WD. Crystalline methamphetamine use and methamphetamine‐related harms in Australia. Drug Alcohol Rev 2017;36:160–170]
Axial level‐dependent molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the genesis of the embryonic neural plate
Authors: Kondoh Hisato , Takada Shinji , Takemoto Tatsuya
Published: June 2016

The transcription factor gene Sox2, centrally involved in neural primordial regulation, is activated by many enhancers. During the early stages of embryonic development, Sox2 is regulated by the enhancers N2 and N1 in the anterior neural plate (ANP) and posterior neural plate (PNP), respectively. This differential use of the enhancers reflects distinct regulatory mechanisms underlying the genesis of ANP and PNP. The ANP develops directly from the epiblast, triggered by nodal signal inhibition, and via the combined action of TFs SOX2, OTX2, POU3F1, and ZIC2, which promotes the the ANP development and inhibits other cell lineages. In contrast, the PNP is derived from neuromesodermal bipotential axial stem cells that develop into the neural plate when Sox2 is activated by the N1 enhancer, whereas they develop into the paraxial mesoderm when the N1 enhancer is repressed by the action of TBX6. The axial stem cells are maintained by the activity of WNT3a and T (Brachyury). However, at axial levels more anterior to the 8th somites (cervical levels), the development of both the neural plate and somite proceeds in the absence of WNT3a, T, or TBX6. These observations indicate that distinct molecular and cellular mechanisms determine neural plate genesis based on the axial level, and contradict the classical concept of the term “neural induction,” which assumes a pan‐neural plate mechanism.
Continuous glucose monitoring in patients with type 2 diabetes treated with glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist dulaglutide in combination with prandial insulin lispro: an AWARD‐4 substudy
Authors: Jendle Johan , Testa Marcia A. , Martin Sherry , Jiang Honghua , Milicevic Zvonko
Published: June 2016

Aim

To conduct a substudy, using 24‐hour continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), of the AWARD‐4 trial, which was designed to compare insulin + glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist treatment with an insulin‐only regimen.

Methods

The AWARD‐4 trial randomized 884 conventional insulin regimen‐treated patients to dulaglutide 1.5 mg, dulaglutide 0.75 mg and glargine, all in combination with prandial insulin lispro. The CGM substudy included 144 patients inserted with a Medtronic CGMS iPro CGM device to enable 3‐day glucose monitoring. CGM sessions were completed at weeks 0, 13, 26 and 52. CGM measures included mean 24‐hour glucose, percentage time in target glucose ranges, hyper‐ and hypoglycaemia and glucose variability. The primary objective was treatment comparison for percentage time spent with CGM glucose values in the 3.9‐7.8 mmol/L range after 26 weeks.

Results

At week 26, mean CGM values decreased in all treatment groups (change from baseline −2.8 ± 0.3, −2.4 ± 0.3 and −2.5 ± 0.3 mmol/L for dulaglutide 1.5 mg, dulaglutide 0.75 mg and glargine, respectively); between‐group differences were not statistically significant. Treatment groups were similar for percentage time in the 3.9‐7.8 mmol/L range. Percentage time in the 3.9‐10.0 mmol/L range was greater for dulaglutide 1.5 mg than for glargine (p < 0.05). Dulaglutide and glargine were associated with decreased glucose variability for all CGM variability indices. The overall within‐patient standard deviation (s.d.) was significantly reduced with dulaglutide 1.5 mg versus glargine (p < 0.05). At week 52, there were no significant differences among the groups with regard to measures of normoglycaemia or near‐normoglycaemia and for the overall within‐patient s.d. Treatment with glargine was associated with greater increases in percentage time spent with glucose values ≤3.9 mmol/L, with statistically significant differences between the groups at 52 weeks (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

In combination with prandial lispro, treatment with dulaglutide and glargine resulted in similar proportions of glucose values in the normoglycaemic range, but dulaglutide provided an improved balance between the proportion of values within the near‐normoglycaemia range and values within the hypoglycaemic range.
Complexity of leaf miner–parasitoid food webs declines with canopy height in Patagonian beech forests
Authors: CHAIJ JAQUELINA , DEVOTO MARIANO , OLEIRO MARINA , CHANETON ENRIQUE J. , MAZÍA NOEMÍ
Published: June 2016

1. Consumer–resource species interactions form complex, dynamic networks, which may exhibit structural heterogeneity at various scales. This study set out to address whether host–parasitoid food web size and topology vary across forest canopy strata, and to what extent foliar resources and species abundances account for vertical patterns in network structure.

2. The vertical stratification of leaf miner–parasitoid food webs was examined in two monotypic beech (Nothofagus pumilio) forests in northern Patagonia, Argentina. Quantitative food webs were constructed for separate canopy layers by sampling foliage from three tree‐height classes at 0.5–1, 2–3 and 5–6 m above ground.

3. Leaf miner abundance per unit leaf mass and foliar damage (%) did not differ across strata, although foliage quality and quantity increased from the understorey to the upper canopy. Parasitism rates and food web complexity decreased with canopy height, as reflected by reduced linkage richness, linkage density, mean interaction strength, and host vulnerability.

4. Null model analyses revealed that food web metrics, especially in the upper canopy, were often lower than expected when compared with randomly structured networks. Overall, these patterns held for two forests differing in vertical structure and in dominant miner morphotype and parasitoid species.

5. These results suggest that vertical declines in network complexity may be driven by the parasitoids' limited functional response to host abundance and dispersal from pupation sites in the forest floor. A broader constraint on food web structure seemed to be imposed by host–parasitoid trait matching, a reflection of large‐scale assembly processes.
Seizure‐onset zone localization by statistical parametric mapping in visually normal 18F‐FDG PET studies
Authors: Mayoral Maria , Marti‐Fuster Berta , Carreño Mar , Carrasco Josep L. , Bargalló Núria , Donaire Antonio , Rumià Jordi , Perissinotti Andrés , Lomeña Francisco , Pintor Luis , Boget Teresa , Setoain Xavier
Published: June 2016

Objective

Neuroimaging is crucial in the presurgical evaluation of patients with medically refractory epilepsy. To improve the moderate sensitivity of [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose–positron emission tomography (18F‐FDG‐PET), our aim was to evaluate the usefulness of statistical parametric mapping (SPM) to localize the seizure‐onset zone (SOZ) in PET studies deemed normal by visual assessment.

Methods

Fifty‐five patients with medically refractory epilepsy whose 18F‐FDG‐PET was visually evaluated as normal were retrospectively included. Twenty of these patients had undergone surgical intervention. PET images were analyzed by SPM8 using a corrected p‐value of p < 0.05 and three uncorrected p‐values of p < 0.0001, p < 0.001, and p < 0.005, matched with minimum cluster sizes of k > 0, k > 20, k > 100, and k > 200, respectively. The SPM‐identified potential seizure zone (SZ) was compared to the SOZ, which was determined by consensus during patient management meetings in the epilepsy unit, taking into account presurgical tests. Studies in which the SPM‐identified potential SZ was concordant with the SOZ were considered “correctly localizing.”

Results

The SPM threshold combination with the least restrictive p‐value and greatest minimum cluster size achieved the highest rate of correctly localizing studies. When p < 0.005/k > 200 was used, 40% (22/55) of studies were correctly localizing, and the concordance obtained in the surgically intervened subgroup was substantial (к = 0.607, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.258–0.957), which was comparable to the concordance obtained by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (к = 0.783, 95% CI 0.509–1.000).

Significance

SPM offers improved SOZ localization in 18F‐FDG‐PET studies that are negative on visual assessment. For this purpose, statistical parametric maps could be thresholded with liberal p‐values and restrictive cluster sizes.
Measurement of distal limb sub‐bandage pressure over 96 hours in horses
Authors: Canada N.C. , Beard W.L. , Guyan M.E. , White B.J.
Published: June 2016

Reasons for performing study

Currently, there is no objective information quantifying pressures exerted by distal limb bandages.

Objectives

To quantify the pressure exerted by each compression layer, a polo wrap (DLP), a compression bandage (DLC), and to measure the effect of time on sub‐bandage pressure.

Study design

Longitudinal observational experiment.

Methods

A DLC construct included a cotton roll compressed with brown gauze and elastic layers and the DLP construct included a pillow pad compressed by a cloth wrap. Dorsal and lateral sensors were placed on the mid‐metacarpus. In healthy horses, sub‐bandage pressures were recorded during application (n = 8) and at scheduled time points over the 24 (n = 9) and 96 h periods (n = 8). A generalised linear model was used to evaluate associations between pressure and sensor location, bandage type and time (P<0.05).

Results

For the DLC, dorsal and lateral sensor pressures were 187 mmHg (95% CI 185–189 mmHg) and 142 mmHg (95% CI 133–151 mmHg). Combined sensor pressure after application of the brown gauze was 80 mmHg (95% CI 75–85 mmHg) and rose to 165 mmHg (95% CI 160–170 mmHg) after the elastic layer. Combined pressure at the end of the 96 h period was 135 mmHg (95% CI 123–147 mmHg). For the DLP bandage, location but not time was significant. Combined pressures ranged between 75 mmHg (95% CI 53–97 mmHg) and 85 mmHg (95% CI 63–107 mmHg).

Conclusions

Pressure distribution was not uniform. The DLP pressures were maintained for a 24 h period. The DLC maintained high pressures for 96 h, but a significant decrease in pressure occurred between 6 and 12 h. Providing there are no other reasons to change a bandage, a 4 day interval between bandages may be appropriate if maintaining distal limb compression is the principal indication.
The cryo‐EM structure of the Plasmodium falciparum 20S proteasome and its use in the fight against malaria
Authors: Li Hao , Bogyo Matthew , da Fonseca Paula C. A.
Published: June 2016

Plasmodium falciparum is the parasite responsible for the most severe form of malaria. Its increasing resistance to existing antimalarials represents a major threat to human health and urges the development of new therapeutic strategies to fight malaria. The proteasome is a protease complex essential in all eukaryotes. Accordingly, inhibition of the Plasmodium 20S proteasome is highly toxic for the parasite at all of its infective and developmental stages. Proteasome inhibitors have antimalarial potential both as curative and transmission blocking agents, but in order to have therapeutic application, they must specifically target the Plasmodium proteasome and not its human counterpart. X‐ray crystallography has been widely used to determine structures of yeast and mammalian 20S proteasomes with ligands. However, crystallisation of the Plasmodium proteasome is challenging, as only small quantities of the complex can be directly purified from the parasite. Furthermore, most X‐ray structures of proteasome–inhibitor complexes require soaking of crystals with high concentrations of ligand, thus preventing analysis of inhibitor subunit specificity. Instead we chose to determine the Plasmodium falciparum 20S proteasome structure, in the presence of a new rationally designed parasite‐specific inhibitor, by high‐resolution electron cryo‐microscopy and single particle analysis. The resulting map, at a resolution of about 3.6 Å, allows a direct molecular analysis of inhibitor/enzyme interactions. Here we present an overview of this structure, and how it provides valuable information that can be used to assist in the design of improved proteasome inhibitors with the potential to be developed as next‐generation antimalarial drugs.
Urbanisation alters the flow of energy through stream food webs
Authors: Docile Tatiana , Rosa Daniela C. O. , Figueiró Ronaldo , Nessimian Jorge
Published: June 2016

Anthropogenic changes in the aquatic environment can influence macroinvertebrate communities, interfering with species richness and diversity. Few studies have investigated the effect of urbanisation in streams using a food web approach. The aim of this study was to describe the food webs of aquatic macroinvertebrates in streams located in urban and preserved areas of the Atlantic Rainforest domain.

Sampling was conducted in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, at 10 urban and 10 preserved streams during the dry season (August–September) of 2012. The streams were characterised with respect to their environmental conditions. Macroinvertebrates were sorted and identified in the laboratory and gut contents were examined. Trophic relationships were plotted in consumer–resource food webs and network properties were used to compare the two sets of streams.

Food webs in urban streams had higher linkage density and connectance, but consumers had fewer items in their guts, which may indicate reduced flow of energy and more unstable food webs. The base of the food webs in each land‐use type were also quite different, with higher amounts of plant detritus in preserved streams and fine detritus in urban streams.

This study shows that preserved areas offer better conditions for the development of macroinvertebrates, resulting in more stable trophic structures when compared with environments under higher anthropogenic influence.
Acute paraquat exposure determines dose‐dependent oxidative injury of multiple organs and metabolic dysfunction in rats: impact on exercise tolerance
Authors: Novaes Rômulo D. , Gonçalves Reggiani V. , Cupertino Marli C. , Santos Eliziária C. , Bigonha Solange M. , Fernandes Geraldo J. M. , Maldonado Izabel R. S. C. , Natali Antônio J.
Published: June 2016

This study investigated the pathological morphofunctional adaptations related to the imbalance of exercise tolerance triggered by paraquat (PQ) exposure in rats. The rats were randomized into four groups with eight animals each: (a) SAL (control): 0.5 ml of 0.9% NaCl solution; (b) PQ10: PQ 10 mg/kg; (c) PQ20: PQ 20 mg/kg; and (d) PQ30: PQ 30 mg/kg. Each group received a single injection of PQ. After 72 hours, the animals were subjected to an incremental aerobic running test until fatigue in order to determine exercise tolerance, blood glucose and lactate levels. After the next 24 h, lung, liver and skeletal muscle were collected for biometric, biochemical and morphological analyses. The animals exposed to PQ exhibited a significant anticipation of anaerobic metabolism during the incremental aerobic running test, a reduction in exercise tolerance and blood glucose levels as well as increased blood lactate levels during exercise compared to control animals. PQ exposure increased serum transaminase levels and reduced the glycogen contents in liver tissue and skeletal muscles. In the lung, the liver and the skeletal muscle, PQ exposure also increased the contents of malondialdehyde, protein carbonyl, 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine, superoxide dismutase and catalase, as well as a structural remodelling compared to the control group. All these changes were dose‐dependent. Reduced exercise tolerance after PQ exposure was potentially influenced by pathological remodelling of multiple organs, in which glycogen depletion in the liver and skeletal muscle and the imbalance of glucose metabolism coexist with the induction of lipid, protein and DNA oxidation, a destructive process not counteracted by the upregulation of endogenous antioxidant enzymes.
Protecting the Welfare of Children and its Causal Effect on Limiting Mother's Labour Migration
Authors: Weeraratne Bilesha
Published: June 2016

In June 2013 Sri Lanka introduced a new policy, the Family Background Report (FBR), to restrict mothers migrating for domestic work. This article performs an impact evaluation of the FBR using monthly departure statistics of female migrant workers from January 2012 to December 2014 in a difference‐in‐difference methodology. The identification is based on the inter‐temporal variation between the treatment and control groups. As anticipated, the FBR has a negative causal effect on female departures for foreign employment in the range of 449–812 departures per month. The findings are robust to placebo and sensitivity tests. Although successful in restricting females migrating for domestic work, this policy promotes migration outside the institutional framework of Sri Lanka and thereby increases their vulnerability at destination. For the policy initiative to be effective, its myopic focus has to be transformed into a long‐term plan to support those deterred from migrating.
Turkey's Response to Sex Trafficking of Migrant Women: Is It Efficient Enough?
Authors: Zhidkova Tatiana , Demir Oguzhan Omer
Published: June 2016

Human trafficking for sexual exploitation is a serious problem affecting especially women and children. Turkey has been particularly affected by sex trafficking because of the large numbers of female migrants that it receives. This article aims to critically assess the effectiveness of Turkey's current policies against sex trafficking using a feminist theoretical perspective with a particular focus on migrant women. To this end, the scope of the problem in Turkey, the supply and demand sides of sex trafficking, and the existing policies are discussed. Sex trafficking is examined at the intersection of Turkey's migration and prostitution regimes. It is argued that Turkey's response to sex trafficking has been inefficient because it currently focuses only on the economic supply side of the problem, ignoring the patriarchal demand side of it. The article concludes with a discussion of policy recommendations for Turkey that could help reduce sex trafficking in this country.
Preparation of Sr1−xCaxLiAl3N4:Eu2+ Solid Solutions and Their Photoluminescence Properties
Authors: Hu Wei‐Wei , Ji Wei‐Wei , Khan Sayed Ali , Hao Lu‐Yuan , Xu Xin , Yin Liang‐Jun , Agathopoulos Simeon
Published: June 2016

A series of quaternary nitride solid solutions with a general formula of Sr1−xCaxLiAl3N4:0.5%Eu2+ was synthesized by a solid‐state reaction method. The experimental results showed that a proper amount of Ca‐doping can improve the crystallinity and the photoluminescence properties of the produced phosphors. Rietveld refinement showed that the volume of the unit cell shrank with the increase of Ca substitution for Sr, which resulted in a red shift of the emission spectra from 654 to 665 nm under blue excitation at 475 nm. Rietveld refinement and CASTPE calculations suggested that Ca2+ ions prefer to occupy the smaller Sr(I) sites in the crystal lattice, which increases the amount of Eu2+ ions in Sr(II) sites and enables the tuning of the chromaticity coordinates of the obtained phosphors. The thermal stability of the produced phosphors is better than that of commercial Sr2Si5N8:Eu2+ phosphor. The experimental results qualify the solid‐solution Sr1−xCaxLiAl3N4:0.5%Eu2+ for consideration as a potential candidate for application in white LEDs.
Out of School and Into Distress: Families of Young Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in Transition
Authors: McKenzie Katherine , Ouellette‐Kuntz Hélène , Blinkhorn Ashleigh , Démoré Ashley
Published: June 2016

Background

The transition period out of the educational system can be a source of stress for parents of young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as families lose the support and respite offered by schools.

Materials and Methods

Using a before and after design nested within a 24‐month follow‐up study of parents seeking adult developmental services for their children, parents' perception of distress was measured using the Brief Family Distress Scale (Journal of Child and Family Studies, 20, 2011, 521) and their perception of helpfulness of formal supports was assessed using the Family Support Scale (Journal of Individual, Family, and Community Wellness, 1, 1984, 45).

Results

Parents reported significantly higher levels of distress after their child transitioned out of school. Employed parents and parents of a child with an autism spectrum disorder are at increased risk for distress.

Conclusions

Families fare worse once their adult children are no longer in school, although this is not associated with a reduction in the perception of the helpfulness of formal supports.
An Introduction to the Psychopharmacology of Children and Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Earle Jason F.
Published: June 2016

TOPIC

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that requires a multidisciplinary approach to treatment. Psychopharmacology can play an important role within an array of services to help children and adolescents with ASD.

PURPOSE

This article reviews the current evidence supporting the use of various psychiatric medications to treat common symptoms that often compromise functioning: severe irritability, interfering repetitive behaviors, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and sleep dysregulation. Based on the accumulating research, the article also offers practice recommendations.

SOURCES

The article primarily draws on the science generated by investigators from the Research Units on Pediatric Psychopharmacology Autism Network. This body of work consists of randomized controlled trials, meta‐analyses, open trials, and review articles.

CONCLUSIONS

There are currently no FDA‐approved medications to treat the core symptoms of ASD. Consequently, all medications, besides risperidone and aripiprazole for severe irritability, are considered off‐label. Additionally, due to reduced levels of effectiveness and higher rates of side effects, more typical medications such as antidepressants and stimulants should be used with caution. However, the evidence indicates that the thoughtful use of psychiatric medication in conjunction with other interventions may be beneficial in helping children and adolescents with ASD thrive at school and home.
Real‐world treatment patterns and clinical outcomes of HCV treatment‐naive patients in China: an interim analysis from the CCgenos study
Authors: Rao Hui‐ying , Li Hong , Chen Hong , Shang Jia , Xie Qing , Gao Zhi‐Liang , Li Jun , Sun Yongtao , Jiang Jianning , Wang Lei , Zhao Longfeng , Zhang Lunli , Yang Weibo , Niu Junqi , Gong Zuojiong , Gong Guozhong , Yang Ruifeng , Lee Mei‐Hsuan , Wei Lai
Published: June 2016

Background and Aim

In China, chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection represents a considerable healthcare burden. Although interferon‐based therapy has been the standard‐of‐care for many years, few long‐term, real‐life studies have assessed interferon‐based treatment in China. The objective of CCgenos follow‐up study was to analyze long‐term treatment patterns and outcomes in a cohort of treatment‐naïve, Han ethnic, patients with chronic HCV infection.

Methods

Patients who had participated in the CCgenos cross‐sectional study were invited to enter this 5‐year follow up. Clinical information and centralized HCV‐RNA measures were collected at scheduled study visits every 6 months for untreated patients and every 3 months for treated patients.

Results

Among 512 patients enrolled, 334 (65.2%) received interferon‐based treatment and 178 (34.8%) remained untreated over a median of 4.1 (1.2–4.3) years. A total of 82.8% (424/512) of patients had an IL28B CC genotype (GT); 60.7% (311/512) had HCV GT1b infection, including 121 (38.9%) untreated. Most patients with baseline cirrhosis were untreated (26/46, 56.5%). Among patients who completed treatment and 24 weeks of post‐treatment follow up, the duration of interferon‐based therapy was frequently longer than recommended (52.9% [92/174] of GT1b‐infected were treated for > 1 year). Rates of sustained virologic response (SVR24) were 71.1% (226/318) overall; 62.4% (111/178) among patients with HCV GT1b infection; and 42.9% (15/35) among patients with cirrhosis.

Conclusions

There remains a high unmet need for effective HCV treatment in China, evidenced by a high proportion of patients remaining untreated by the current standard‐of‐care and relatively low SVR24 rates for patients with both GT1b infection and cirrhosis.
The Journal of Anatomy: origin and evolution
Authors: Morriss‐Kay Gillian
Published: June 2016

The Journal of Anatomy was launched 150 years ago as the Journal of Anatomy and Physiology, in an age when anatomy and physiology were not regarded as separate disciplines. European science in general was advancing rapidly at the time (it was 7 years after publication of Darwin's Origin of Species), and the recent demise of the Natural History Review meant that there was no English language publication covering these subjects. The founding editors were George Murray Humphry of Cambridge and William Turner of Edinburgh, together with Alfred Newton of Cambridge and Edward Perceval Wright of Dublin (the last two served only for a year). The pivotal event leading to the Journal's foundation was the 1866 meeting of the British Association, at which Humphry delivered the ‘Address in Physiology’ (printed in the first issue). Turner, who was also present at the 1866 British Association meeting, remained as a member of the editorial team for 50 years and was a major contributor of Journal articles. The title was changed to Journal of Anatomy in October 1916, when it was taken under the wing, in terms of both management and ownership, by the Anatomical Society. This article reviews the early years of the Journal’s publication in more detail than later years because of the historical interest of this less familiar material. The subject matter, which has remained surprisingly consistent over the years, is illustrated by examples from some notable contributions. The evolution of illustration techniques is surveyed from 1866 to the present day; the final section provides brief summaries of all of the chief editors.