bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liquidity risk management: conventional versus Islamic banking system in Egypt
Authors: Abdel Megeid Nevine Sobhy
Published: February 2017

Purpose

This research aims to analyze and compare the effectiveness of liquidity risk management of Islamic and conventional banking in Egypt to ascertain which of the two banking systems are performing better.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of six conventional banks (CBs) and two Islamic banks (IBs) in Egypt was selected. Using the liquidity ratios, the investigation involves analyzing the financial statements for the period of 2004-2011. The data were obtained from Bank scope database.

Findings

The research found that in Egypt, CBs perform better in terms of liquidity risk management than IBs. The liquidity risk management significant differences between IBs and CBs could be attributed more cash availability to CBs than to IBs, in addition, Egyptian Central Bank regulations on capital and liquidity requirements for IBs disconcert IBs’ performance.

Practical implications

This research facilitates the bankers, academician, scholars and bankers to have an alluded picture about Egyptian banking developments in liquidity risk management. The results can be used by bankers’ policy decision-makers to improve and enhance their consideration for liquidity risk management.

Originality/value

This research covers a period and a country that compares CBs’ and IBs’ liquidity risk management. Its value is attributed to the increasing differentiation between CBs and IBs.
Financial development, Islamic finance and economic growth: evidence of the UAE
Authors: Zarrouk Hajer , El Ghak Teheni , Abu Al Haija Elias
Published: February 2017

Purpose

Does Islamic finance affect economic growth? The empirical literature in this area seems to be in early stages and the results are often mixed and inconclusive. This paper aims to examine the causality between financial development in general, Islamic finance in particular and real economic growth in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Design/methodology/approach

Using time series data from 1990 to 2012, a bivariate vector autoregressive model was used to document the financial development-Islamic finance-growth causal nexus and to forecast growth under various scenarios. A composite indicator, as a proxy for financial development, was determined using a non-parametric approach: data envelopment analysis.

Findings

The direction of causality runs from financial development to economic growth and the reverse causality does not drive this relationship; however, the real gross domestic product (GDP) causes Islamic financial development with no reverse effect. Furthermore, the forecasting results indicate that the past relation has been a proxy for the future where financial development leads to better progress in real economic activity. This will likely continue to stimulate the development of Islamic finance.

Research limitations/implications

Because the financial markets in the UAE were established in 2000, this study ignored Islamic bonds and equity product. The value of the Sukuk listed on Dubai’s exchanges is around US$36.75bn (Thomson Reuters, 2015), reinforcing Dubai’s position as an international center for Sukuk activity. Among the most important tools of the Islamic financial sector, Sukuk deserves a closer empirical study. This can set the agenda for future work.

Practical implications

The financial sector appears to be one of the main drivers of real economic activity. However, more effort in the area of Islamic finance is needed to promote Shari’ah-compliant economic activities and thus better contribute toward making Dubai-UAE the capital of the Islamic economy.

Originality/value

A new indicator was used to evaluate the financial strength of the UAE and analyze its effect on economic development. In addition, as one of UAE’ emirates, Dubai declared its vision in 2013 to become the “capital of the Islamic economy”, this study analyzed the finance, Islamic finance and growth relations over the period 2013-2022.
Online search-based advertising strategy for e-Business platform with the consideration of consumer search cost
Authors: Ma Buqing , Xu Xiaoyan , Sun Yanhong , Bian Yiwen
Published: February 2017

Purpose

Consumers are increasingly using search-based advertising in e-Business platforms to seek their desirable products. Platforms will choose a centralized advertising mechanism (CAM) or decentralized advertising mechanism (DAM) to offer a search advertising service to lower consumer search cost, as represented by using search time length. It is important for the platform to decide how to choose advertising mechanisms, and how to determine the optimal advertising price and search time length. To address these issues, this study aims to develop a theoretical approach under each mechanism to examine the platform’s optimal search-based advertising strategy by considering search cost.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, two models are developed to examine the optimal search-based advertising strategy by considering consumer search cost (i.e. search time length). By comparing the platform’s profits under two models, the optimal advertising strategy, search time length and price are explored.

Findings

It is found that when the seller’s reserve benefit is sufficiently large, the platform benefits from choosing the DAM; otherwise, the CAM is a better choice. The advertising service is usually offered with a shorter search time length accompanied by a higher charge, and a longer search time length accompanied by a lower charge. Specifically, when the seller’s reserve benefit is substantially high, a DAM that benefits both the platform and seller is a better choice. This can explain why many platforms offer advertising services with a DAM.

Originality/value

This paper is the first theoretical study on addressing the search-based advertising strategy, especially the choice of advertising mechanisms, in the online advertising context. It is also the first piece of analytical research that considers the effect of consumer search cost on product demand, and then examines the optimal advertising price and search cost (i.e. search time length) for online platforms.
ANTi-History, relationalism and the historic turn in management and organization studies
Authors: Durepos Gabrielle , Mills Albert J.
Published: February 2017

Purpose

This paper develops and provides insights on how researchers can use ANTi-History with a focus on one of its constitutive facets, relationalism. The purpose of this paper is to, first, develop a central facet of ANTi-History called relationalism and to outline how researchers interested in doing organizational history can use ANTi-History insights to undertake relational histories.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors propose four phases of the historic turn literature and situate ANTi-History and relationalism as an outcome of the fourth phase. The facet of relationalism is then explained and explored through five types of relations that the authors suggest act as sites of oscillation, where the past becomes (an immutable) history.

Findings

A central implication of the paper involves disrupting conceptualizations of the past and history as fixed. Instead, history is explained as a relational outcome of its constitutive social and political relationships.

Originality/value

The paper theoretically develops ANTi-History and relationalism while providing practical implications and tools for researchers to use it. Researchers are introduced to the notion of the site of oscillation. They are encouraged to focus their attention on five sites of oscillation: past-history, actor-network, human-nonhuman, researcher-traces of the past, and historical inscription-reading formation. These sites of oscillation are places where politics is at play and history is shaped or transformed.
The working woman in higher education: reflections of the past, hope for the future
Authors: Bulick Natalie , Frey Susan
Published: February 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the literature on female faculty and administrators working in higher education, past and present.

Design/methodology/approach

Materials were selected based on scholarly impact and reputation of the author. Selections were then examined to assure varied perspectives and wide period coverage.

Findings

Throughout the past century, women have made tremendous strides in the pursuit of equity in the academic working environment. However, statistics and personal experiences indicate that much progress is still needed.

Research limitations/implications

This bibliography is limited to literature on working female faculty and administrators in the USA. It is intended to provide a broad overview of their past and present working conditions. Materials cover the Colonial period though the present. As such, a brief selection of materials available are included. Although there are much fewer resources that include the women of color experience, whenever possible materials are included. For the purpose of this review, the female student demographic is omitted. As there is a plethora of materials on this subject, it should be examined in a separate bibliography.

Originality/value

This bibliography provides students and scholars a brief introduction to research women in higher education which encompasses diverse voices, a wide historical range and contemporary materials.
Adjuvant rituximab treatment for pemphigus: A retrospective study of 45 patients at a single center with long‐term follow up
Authors: Kim Tae Hyung , Choi Yuri , Lee Sang Eun , Lim Jung Min , Kim Soo‐Chan
Published: February 2017

To evaluate the long‐term outcomes of rituximab in the treatment of pemphigus and the influence of disease duration and different dose of rituximab on the clinical response, 45 patients with refractory pemphigus treated with at least one cycle of two infusions of rituximab (375 mg/m2 per infusion weekly) were retrospectively studied. All patients were followed up for more than 2 years. All patients achieved complete or partial remission within 8 months of the first cycle. Thirty‐four (76%) patients relapsed at a median of 17 months. All patients who received additional cycles after relapse achieved new remissions. Early use of rituximab within 1 year of disease duration and high‐dose therapy induced better outcomes, although the results in early use were not statistically significant. Acute respiratory distress syndrome occurred in one patient. Rituximab is effective in treating pemphigus, but relapses are frequent during long‐term follow up, and additional cycles are beneficial in relapsed cases. Early and high‐dose rituximab therapy may be more effective.
Democracy in Britain: Retrospect and Prospect
Authors: Wright Tony
Published: February 2017

The EU referendum has raised questions about the nature of democracy, which is not just majority rule. It is wrong to claim that direct democracy has now replaced representative democracy, as Parliament is required to answer all the questions that the referendum did not. The conduct of the referendum reflected the worst aspects of Britain's political culture of sterile adversarialism. Both left and right have shared assumptions about governing that have made it difficult to develop a culture of democratic citizenship. The political system still reflects its pre‐democratic origins (as in the survival of a House of Lords and the obsession with titles) and the role of money in politics represents a form of corruption. Institutional reforms depend for their success on the nurturing of a democratic culture, which is a task for many hands.
Understanding the Non‐Market Value and Equity Implications of the Walsh Bay Arts Precinct Redevelopment
Authors: Morrison Mark , Hill Christine M
Published: February 2017

Few studies have sought to identify willingness to pay for arts precincts. However, given the subsidies required for developing such precincts, understanding non‐market benefits is important for their justification. Using contingent valuation, we identify community willingness to pay for the redevelopment of the Walsh Bay Arts Precinct in Sydney, Australia. We explore equity implications by examining the distribution of values across regions and attitudinal segments. We find that willingness to pay is not solely the domain of relatively wealthy inner‐city households. More distant respondents had a positive and substantive willingness to pay, as did respondents from several attitudinal segments.
Quantitative Differentiation of Bloodstain Patterns Resulting from Gunshot and Blunt Force Impacts
Authors: Siu Sonya , Pender Jennifer , Springer Faye , Tulleners Frederic , Ristenpart William
Published: February 2017

Bloodstain pattern analysis (BPA) provides significant evidentiary value in crime scene interpretation and reconstruction. In this work, we develop a quantitative methodology using digital image analysis techniques to differentiate impact bloodstain patterns. The bloodstain patterns were digitally imaged and analyzed using image analysis algorithms. Our analysis of 72 unique bloodstain patterns, comprising more than 490,000 individual droplet stains, indicates that the mean drop size in a gunshot spatter pattern is at most 30% smaller than the mean drop stain size in blunt instrument patterns. In contrast, we demonstrate that the spatial distribution of the droplet stains—their density as a function of position in the pattern—significantly differs between gunshot and blunt instrument patterns, with densities as much as 400% larger for gunshot impacts. Thus, quantitative metrics involving the spatial distribution of droplet stains within a bloodstain pattern can be useful for objective differentiation between blunt instrument and gunshot bloodstain patterns.
Identification and laboratory behavioral test of the alarm pheromone of Acanthocoris sordidus Thunberg (Hemiptera: Coreidae)
Authors: Shin Eunsik , Kim Junheon , Park Chung Gyoo
Published: February 2017

The winter cherry bug, Acanthocoris sordidus Thunberg (Hemiptera: Coreidae), widely spread in South Korea, Japan and Taiwan, is becoming an economic pest in these regions. Its elevated pest status in pepper plant, Capsicum annuum, is a trigger for eco‐friendly management tactics. In order to use its pheromone for pest management, the cuticular components of adult A. sordidus were identified and a behavioral bioassay on the functions of the components was conducted. From the whole‐body extracts of male and female A. sordidus, 13 compounds (hexanal, 1‐hexanol, 2‐hexanol, 3‐hexanol, hexanoic acid, hexyl acetate, heptyl acetate, octyl acetate, tetradecane, 2‐butyl‐2‐octenal, hexyl hexanoate and (2α,4α,6β)‐2,4,6‐tripentyl‐1,3,5‐trioxane (hexanal trimer, cis‐ and trans‐forms) were identified. In addition to these, two unidentified compounds, a male‐specific and a male‐rich compound, were also found. Hexanal provoked clear escaping behavior. 1‐Hexanol, hexyl acetate and hexanoic acid evoked weaker behavior than hexanal. We concluded that hexanal worked as an alarm pheromone and could be used as a pushing signal for a control program for A. sordidus.
Insecticidal activity of polycaprolactone nanocapsules loaded with Rosmarinus officinalis essential oil in Tribolium castaneum (Herbst)
Authors: Khoobdel Mehdi , Ahsaei Seyed Mohammad , Farzaneh Mohsen
Published: February 2017

In this study, the opportunity to enhance the insecticidal activity of Rosmarinus officinalis essential oil was studied for effective management of the red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum, as a stored product pest beetle. Nanoprecipitation method was used to prepare rosemary oil‐loaded nanocapsules. Bioassays were conducted at 27–30°C temperature and 70–75 % relative humidity in the dark. Fumigant toxicity of the non‐formulated oil and nanocapsules of R. officinalis were investigated at 13.20, 15.92, 19.12, 23.04, and 27.76 μL/L air after 24 and 72 h exposure and the contact toxicity of the non‐formulated oil and nanocapsules were investigated at 4.28, 3.55, 2.95, 2.45 and 2.36 μL/cm2 after 24 h exposure. The major constituents of the essential oil of rosemary were α‐Pinene, 1,8‐cineol, camphor, and cis‐verbenone. Nanocapsules presented an average size (145 ± 15 nm) (± standard error [SE]) with a polydispersity index below 0.3, a negative zeta potential (−11.0 ± 0.5 mV), and a high encapsulation efficiency (78.20 ± 0.93 %). Scanning electron microscope photomicrograph of rosemary oil‐loaded nanocapsules showed the presence of spherical nanocapsules with regular and homogeneous surfaces. In fumigant and contact toxicity, there were significant differences between non‐formulated and rosemary oil‐loaded nanocapsules in all the concentrations and times. The results suggested that nanoencapsulated essential oils from R. officinalis can be used for effective control in T. castaneum. When this technique is used, it can produce pesticides that have controlled‐release properties and reduce the concentration of the applied doses and number of applications.
Full‐field digital mammography: Is the apparent increased detection of microcalcification leading to over‐investigation and over‐diagnosis?
Authors: Porter Alan J , Evans Elizabeth B , Erzetich Lisa M
Published: February 2017

Introduction

Modern full‐field digital mammography (FFDM) appears to have increased the detection of breast microcalcification. This retrospective study aimed to assess whether this is associated with over‐investigation and possible over‐diagnosis of breast pathology of lesser significance.

Methods

Three 2‐year periods were studied, in which different mammographic technologies were used exclusively viz., classical screen‐film mammography (SFM) in 2003–04, computed radiography (CR) in 2009–10 and FFDM in 2012–13. The study was limited to women in whom biopsy was done for indeterminate, suspicious or malignant (ISM) calcification as the only mammographic abnormality.

Results

Between the first and the third time periods, the use of core biopsies and vacuum‐assisted biopsies (VABs) for ‘ISM calcification only’ increased from 0. 6% to 1.4% of all mammograms, and biopsies with malignant results increased from 0.18% to 0.33% of all mammograms. VAB became the preferred technique for biopsy over the study period. The proportion of cores and VABs with a malignant result did not change significantly over the three time periods (24–28%), nor did the proportion of invasive cancers, ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) (60–63%) or atypia on subsequent excision. The proportion of DCIS which was of high grade was greatest in the FFDM era (69%). Less than 9% of DCIS were of low grade in all three time periods.

Conclusions

Despite increased numbers of biopsies being performed, there was no increase in findings of breast pathology of lesser significance. Improved technology (FFDM and VAB) allows immediate biopsy of small clusters of indeterminate microcalcification, rather than using mammographic surveillance, and this study found no evidence that this has been associated with over‐investigation or over‐diagnosis.
Accumulation of rectum dose‐volume metrics for prostate external beam radiotherapy combined with brachytherapy: Evaluating deformably registered dose distribution addition using parameter‐based addition
Authors: Moulton Calyn R , House Michael J , Lye Victoria , Tang Colin I , Krawiec Michele , Joseph David J , Denham James W , Ebert Martin A
Published: February 2017

Introduction

To investigate the accuracy of deriving dose‐volume histogram (DVH) parameters from deformably registered data by comparing values with the simple addition of DVHs from each phase of a combined external beam radiotherapy (EBRT)/high‐dose‐rate (HDR‐BT) brachytherapy prostate treatment.

Methods

Eighty‐two patients received EBRT in 23 fractions of 2 Gy and HDR‐BT TG43 in three fractions of 6.5 Gy. The HDR‐BT CT was deformably registered to the EBRT CT. The rectum D0.1cc, D1cc, D2cc and D10cc were calculated in two ways. (i) Parameter‐adding: the EBRT DVH parameters (or the EBRT prescription dose) were added to the unregistered HDR‐BT DVH parameters. (ii) Distribution‐adding: the parameters were extracted after the EBRT doses were 3D‐summed with the registered HDR‐BT doses. Resulting differences between the parameters were investigated.

Results

The D0.1cc, D1cc and D2cc from parameter‐adding were 21.3% (P < 0.001), 6.3% (P < 0.001) and 3.5% (P < 0.001) smaller than those from distribution‐adding. The D10cc was 2.2% (P = 0.015) larger for distribution‐adding.

Conclusion

Distribution‐adding was confounded by unsystematic inter/intra‐observer rectum‐contouring errors and registration accuracy near the anterior rectal wall. Consequently, clinical use of distribution‐adding to assess rectal doses requires careful contour and registration evaluation.
HTLV‐1 seroprevalance in sarcoidosis. A clinical and laboratory study in northeast of Iran
Authors: Saghafi Massoud , Rezaieyazdi Zahra , Nabavi Shima , Mirfeizi Zahra , Sahebari Maryam , Salari Masoumeh
Published: February 2017

Aim

Sarcoidosis is an autoimmune multiorgan granulomatosis disease with unknown origin. Some environmental factors such as viruses may induce the disease in genetically susceptible individuals. Human T cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV‐1) can dysregulate the human immune system and the role of this virus in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases has been investigated and documented, such as in uveitis. In this study, we have focused on the seroprevalence of HTLV‐1 in sarcoidosis in comparison to the normal population in the northeast of Iran, an endemic area for HTLV‐1.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study enrolled 125 patients with established sarcoidosis to evaluate the frequency of HTLV‐1 and compare it with the normal population of Mashhad, Iran. Participants’ blood samples were analyzed for HTLV‐1 antibody by an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay kit. Positive results were confirmed by polymerase chain reaction method. Finally, data were analyzed using SPSS 11.

Results

Among sarcoidosis patients 106 (84.8%) patients had a history of acute course and 19 (15.2%) had chronic sarcoidosis. Four percent of the patients versus 2.12% of the Mashhad population were HTLV‐1 positive with no statistical difference (P = 0.201). In age‐ and sex‐matched selected controls, 3.6% were HTLV‐1 positive again with no statistical difference by sarcoidosis group (P = 0.52). There was no statistical difference between arthritis, erythema nodusom, uveitis, constitutional symptoms, abnormal chest radiography (parahilar lymphadenopathy) and computed tomography scan findings, respiratory symptoms, sex, the course of the sarcoidosis in HTLV‐1 positive and negative sarcoidosis patients.

Conclusion

The frequency of HTLV‐1 in 125 sarcoidosis patients was 4%. In comparison with prevalence of HTLV‐1 in Mashhad, HTLV‐1 seroprevalence did not show any significant difference.
Strategic Implications of Openness in AI Development
Authors: Bostrom Nick
Published: February 2017

This paper attempts a preliminary analysis of the global desirability of different forms of openness in AI development (including openness about source code, science, data, safety techniques, capabilities, and goals). Short‐term impacts of increased openness appear mostly socially beneficial in expectation. The strategic implications of medium and long‐term impacts are complex. The evaluation of long‐term impacts, in particular, may depend on whether the objective is to benefit the present generation or to promote a time‐neutral aggregate of well‐being of future generations. Some forms of openness are plausibly positive on both counts (openness about safety measures, openness about goals). Others (openness about source code, science, and possibly capability) could lead to a tightening of the competitive situation around the time of the introduction of advanced AI, increasing the probability that winning the AI race is incompatible with using any safety method that incurs a delay or limits performance. We identify several key factors that must be taken into account by any well‐founded opinion on the matter.
A comparison of sugammadex and neostigmine for reversal of rocuronium‐induced neuromuscular blockade in children
Authors: Ammar A. S. , Mahmoud K. M. , Kasemy Z. A.
Published: February 2017

Background

Sugammadex is designed to be a reversal agent for steroidal muscle relaxants. The current trial was aimed to compare between sugammadex and neostigmine concerning the recovery time from neuromuscular blockade. We hypothesised that sugammadex might have shorter recovery time than neostigmine.

Methods

Sixty paediatric patients aged 2–10 years scheduled for lower abdominal surgeries were randomly assigned into two equal groups to receive 4 mg/kg sugammadex (Group S) or 0.35 mg/kg neostigmine and 0.02 mg/kg atropine (Group N) as a reversal agent for rocuronium at the end of surgery. Primary outcome was the recovery time [time from starting of sugammadex or neostigmine till reaching train of four (TOF) ratio> 0.9] whereas secondary outcomes included number of patients who needed another dose of sugammadex or neostigmine to reach TOF ratio> 0.9, extubation time (time from stoppage of anaesthetic inhalation until the patient fulfilled criteria for safe extubation, post‐anaesthesia care unit (PACU) discharge time and post‐operative adverse effects.

Results

The mean recovery and extubation times were significantly shorter (P = 0.002 and 0.005) in Group S compared with Group N (2.5 and 2.0 min vs. 12.6 min and 4.3 min respectively). In the Group N, eight patients needed another reversal dose compared with one patient in Group S (P = 0.035). PACU discharge time showed no significant difference between both groups. Incidence of nausea, vomiting, tachycardia, and dry mouth were significantly higher in Group N.

Conclusion

Sugammadex administration in children resulted in faster recovery and extubation times and lower incidence of adverse events compared with neostigmine.
Birth and death: Evidence for the same biologic clock
Authors: Phillippe Mark , Phillippe Shiela M.
Published: February 2017

In mammals, there exists a strong correlation between the average life span (in years) and the length of gestation (in days), suggesting that the same biologic clock mechanisms control both of these physiologic events. Life span is determined by a complex sequence of events leading to organismal senescence, and ultimately death. Although multiple biochemical and cellular phenomena are believed to be involved, progressive telomere shortening due to oxidative stress and loss during DNA replication is believed to be an important determinant contributing to aging, senescence, and adult death. We hypothesize that similar biochemical and cellular phenomena occur in the placenta and fetal membranes resulting in their aging during gestation, their senescence at term, and their apoptotic death resulting in the release of an inflammatory mediator in the form of fetal cell‐free DNA. This article reviews the evidence supporting this “telomere gestational clock” hypothesis which proposes that progressive telomere shortening in gestational tissue (especially the placenta and fetal membranes) leads to apoptosis and fetal cell‐free DNA release, thereby stimulating the proinflammatory signaling cascade that drives the progression of parturition.
Human vaginal epithelial cells augment autophagy marker genes in response to Candida albicans infection
Authors: Shroff Ankit , Sequeira Roicy , Reddy Kudumula Venkata Rami
Published: February 2017

Problem

Autophagy plays an important role in clearance of intracellular pathogens. However, no information is available on its involvement in vaginal infections such as vulvo‐vaginal candidiasis (VVC). VVC is intimately associated with the immune status of the human vaginal epithelial cells (VECs). The objective of our study is to decipher if autophagy process is involved during Candida albicans infection of VECs.

Methods of study

In this study, C. albicans infection system was established using human VEC line (VK2/E6E7). Infection‐induced change in the expression of autophagy markers like LC3 and LAMP‐1 were analyzed by RT‐PCR, q‐PCR, Western blot, immunofluorescence and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies were carried out to ascertain the localization of autophagosomes. Multiplex ELISA was carried out to determine the cytokine profiles.

Results

Analysis of LC3 and LAMP‐1 expression at mRNA and protein levels at different time points revealed up‐regulation of these markers 6 hours post C. albicans infection. LC3 and LAMP‐1 puncti were observed in infected VECs after 12 hours. TEM studies showed C. albicans entrapped in autophagosomes. Cytokines‐TNF‐α and IL‐1β were up‐regulated in culture supernatants of VECs at 12 hours post‐infection.

Conclusion

The results suggest that C. albicans invasion led to the activation of autophagy as a host defense mechanism of VECs.
Palmitic acid stimulates interleukin‐8 via the TLR4/NF‐κB/ROS pathway and induces mitochondrial dysfunction in bovine oviduct epithelial cells
Authors: Ohtsu Ayaka , Tanaka Hazuki , Seno Kotomi , Iwata Hisataka , Kuwayama Takehito , Shirasuna Koumei
Published: February 2017

Problem

We investigated the effect of palmitic acid (PA), a major saturated fatty acid in NEFA, on bovine oviduct epithelial cells (OECs) during in vitro cell culture.

Method of study

Bovine oviductal tissues ipsilateral to the corpus luteum were collected 1‐3 days after ovulation; the OECs were isolated and cultured.

Results

PA increased lipid accumulation and activated caspase‐3 in OECs, resulting in decreased cell proliferation. PA also stimulated the secretion of inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)‐8 depending on TLR4, NF‐κB activation, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. Moreover, PA induced mitochondrial dysfunction, including mitochondrial fission, ATP production, and mitochondrial ROS production. It also increased levels of LC3 and p62 proteins, suggesting autophagy induction in OECs.

Conclusion

We suggest that bovine OECs recognize an excessive increase in endogenous and sterile danger signals, such as PA, which may contribute to chronic oviductal inflammation, resulting in infertility associated with oviductal dysfunction.
Definitive class I human leukocyte antigen expression in gestational placentation: HLA‐F, HLA‐E, HLA‐C, and HLA‐G in extravillous trophoblast invasion on placentation, pregnancy, and parturition
Authors: Hackmon Rinat , Pinnaduwage Lakmini , Zhang Jianhong , Lye Stephen J. , Geraghty Daniel E. , Dunk Caroline E.
Published: February 2017

Problem

The extravillous trophoblasts (EVT) express HLA‐C and HLA‐G, but HLA‐E and HLA‐F are the subject of conflicting reports. In this study, we define the HLA expression profile during active EVT placental implantation, pregnancy development, and parturition.

Method of study

Immunohistochemistry, q‐PCR, and Western blot were used to investigate HLA‐C, HLA‐E, and HLA‐F placental expression across gestation from the early first trimester, late first trimester, second trimester (n=10 in each), preterm gestation (n=6) to elective term cesarean section and term vaginal deliveries (n=12, 38‐41 weeks). EVT explants and Swan71 cells were used to assess HLA‐C and HLA‐F during active EVT migration.

Results

HLA‐G, HLA‐C, and HLA‐F were expressed by 1st‐trimester EVT and became intracellular and weaker as gestation progressed. HLA‐E was only expressed in 1st‐trimester placenta. HLA‐F and HLA‐C mRNA and protein expression levels showed a significant increase in the fetal villous mesenchyme across gestation. HLA‐C levels increased with labor. We detected a 100‐kDa HLA‐F band in early pregnancy suggesting dimer formation on the EVT surface. These results were confirmed in EVT outgrowths and Swan71 trophoblast which showed that HLA‐F and HLA‐G are increased on the cell surface of migrating EVT, while HLA‐C was internalized.

Conclusion

Expression of HLA‐F and HLA‐G on the cell surface of actively migrating EVT supports their specific role in early EVT invasion and interactions with uterine natural killer cells. HLA‐C's limited expression to the proliferative EVT suggests a protective role in the earliest events of implantation but not in active EVT invasion. We also show for the first time that HLA‐C may be involved in parturition.
Diagnostic genetic screening for assisted reproductive technologies patients with macrozoospermia
Authors: Carmignac V. , Dupont J.‐M. , Fierro R. C. , Barberet J. , Bruno C. , Lieury N. , Dulioust E. , Auger J. , Fauque P.
Published: February 2017

Macrozoospermia is characterized by a high proportion of abnormal spermatozoa with enlarged heads. So far, it has been associated with mutations only in the Aurora Kinase C gene (AURKC) in some cases. Although many publications have reported failure to conceive in couples with macrozoospermia, a few others have described successful pregnancies, thus raising questions as to whether ICSI and AURKC genetic screening should be recommended in all patients with macrozoospermia. First, we report on two monozygotic twins presenting macrozoospermia for whom the genetic status was explored (Aurora Kinase C sequencing) and whole semen and gradient‐selected spermatozoa were analyzed, using Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization (FISH), Electron Microscopy and flow cytometry. Additionally, FISH analysis was performed on individually selected uniflagellate spermatozoa with normal sized heads. Second, we also provide an updated review of patients with macrozoospermia gathering the percentage of enlarged head spermatozoa, the genetic status and pregnancy outcomes. Both twins carried a homozygous mutation of AURKC. Spermocytograms showed means of 86% and 83.5% of enlarged head forms. FISH analyses showed that normal head size, uniflagellate spermatozoa had an aneuploid or polyploid nucleus despite a high level of selection. SEM analysis also showed special intranuclear inclusions in enlarged head spermatozoa. Our data together with cases reported in the literature allowed us to recommend that the AURKC gene should be sequenced when the sperm contains 30% or more of enlarged head spermatozoa, and when a mutation is found, ART should not be performed. Our analyses provide information that could greatly help practitioners in their decision‐making with regard to optimal care of patients with macrozoospermia.
Protein kinase C activity in boar sperm
Authors: Teijeiro J. M. , Marini P. E. , Bragado M. J. , Garcia‐Marin L. J.
Published: February 2017

Male germ cells undergo different processes within the female reproductive tract to successfully fertilize the oocyte. These processes are triggered by different extracellular stimuli leading to activation of protein phosphorylation. Protein kinase C (PKC) is a key regulatory enzyme in signal transduction mechanisms involved in many cellular processes. Studies in boar sperm demonstrated a role forPKCin the intracellular signaling involved in motility and cellular volume regulation. Experiments using phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate (PMA) showed increases in the Serine/Threonine phosphorylation of substrates downstream ofPKCin boar sperm. In order to gain knowledge about those cellular processes regulated byPKC, we evaluate the effects ofPMAon boar sperm motility, lipid organization of plasma membrane, integrity of acrosome membrane and sperm agglutination. Also, we investigate the crosstalk betweenPKAandPKCintracellular pathways in spermatozoa from this species. The results presented here reveal a participation ofPKCin sperm motility regulation and membrane fluidity changes, which is probably associated to acrosome reaction and to agglutination. Also, we show the existence of a hierarchy in the kinases pathway. Previous works on boar sperm suggest a pathway in whichPKAis positioned upstream toPKCand this new results support such model.
Introduction of robot‐assisted radical hysterectomy for early stage cervical cancer: impact on complications, costs and oncologic outcome
Authors: Wallin Emelie , Flöter Rådestad Angelique , Falconer Henrik
Published: February 2017

Introduction

The objective was to assess the impact of robot‐assisted radical hysterectomy (RRH) on surgical and oncologic outcome and costs compared with open radical hysterectomy (ORH) at a tertiary referral center in Sweden.

Material and methods

In this retrospective analysis all patients treated with radical hysterectomy and pelvic lymphadenectomy for early stage uterine cervical cancer during 2006–2015 were included (n = 304). The patients were divided into two groups, ORH (n = 155) and RRH (n = 149). Patient characteristics, FIGO stage, histology, adjuvant therapy, operation time, length of stay (LOS), lymph node yield, recurrence rate and survival were retrieved from medical records. Complications were graded according to the Clavien–Dindo classification. In addition, costs related to the surgical treatments were calculated.

Results

Blood loss, LOS and intraoperative complications were significantly lower as well as lymph node yield after RRH. No differences in postoperative complications or costs were observed between the two groups. Recurrence of disease was detected in 13.4 and 10.3% after RRH and ORH, respectively. Regression analysis demonstrated that histology, tumor size, positive lymph nodes and type of operation (RRH) were significantly associated with recurrence.

Conclusion

The introduction of RRH was accompanied by similar postoperative complication rates and costs but lower LOS compared with ORH. An initial learning curve may account for the higher recurrence rate observed after RRH. These data reinforce the need for structured training and monitoring of outcomes when novel treatment modalities are introduced.
Genetic correlations between male reproductive traits and growth traits in growth performance tested Duroc, Landrace and Yorkshire breed boars
Authors: Chang Hsiu‐Luan , Lai Yung‐Yu , Wu Ming‐Che , Sasaki Osamu
Published: February 2017

Male‐related traits at 180–225 days of age for 6464 grow‐finish performance tested boars were measured from 2000 to 2016. Heritability estimates and genetic correlations among average daily gain, feed efficiency, back fat thickness, teat counts, mounting libido, leg locomotion, penile length, sperm motility, sperm concentration and total sperm counts were estimated by VCE software using a multiple traits animal model in each breed. Growth‐tested boars had heritability estimates of male reproductive traits in 0.34–0.56 of teat counts, 0.12–0.20 of libido, 0.08–0.12 of locomotion, 0.17–0.58 of penile length, 0.04–0.21 of sperm motility and concentration, 0.17–0.30 of total sperm counts. Total sperm counts were genetically positively correlated with penile length in all breeds. Boars with higher total sperm counts had genetically better libido and locomotion. Genetic correlation between feed efficiency and sperm motility and feed efficiency and sperm concentration were positive in Duroc and negative in Landrace and Yorkshire. Sperm motility and concentration were genetically negatively correlated with average daily gain in Yorkshire. Male reproductive traits of imported breeds could be improved with care in the change of growth traits, especially in Yorkshire.
Long non‐coding RNA analysis of muscular responses to testosterone deficiency in Huainan male pigs
Authors: Xing Baosong , Bai Xianxiao , Guo Hongxia , Chen Junfeng , Hua Liushuai , Zhang Jiaqing , Ma Qiang , Ren Qiaoling , Wang Huashuai , Wang Jing
Published: February 2017

Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) participated in growth and development of skeletal muscle; however, little is known about their response to testosterone deficiency in porcine skeletal muscle. We compared lean mass related carcass traits and lncRNAs expression files in Longissimus dorsi (LD) muscle between intact and castrated Huainan male pigs. The results showed that castration significantly reduced eye muscle area and lean meat percentage (P < 0.05), but increased the fat mass weight (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, 8946 lncRNAs, including 6743 intergenic lncRNAs (lincRNAs), 498 anti‐sense lncRNAs, and 1705 intronic lncRNAs, were identified in porcine LD, among which, 385 lncRNAs were considered as the differentially expressed candidates between intact groups and castrated groups (q‐value < 0.05). Functional analysis indicated that these differently expressed lncRNAs and their target genes were involved in the estrogen receptor signaling pathway and skeletal and muscular system development and function. We first detect porcine muscular lncRNA response to castration, and the results suggested that lncRNAs and their target genes participated in the regulation of testosterone deficiency‐related skeletal muscle growth.
Feeding corn distillers grains as an energy source to gestating and lactating beef heifers: Impact of excess protein on feedlot performance, glucose tolerance, carcass characteristics and Longissimus muscle fatty acid profile of steer progeny
Authors: Gunn Patrick J. , Bridges Glen A. , Lemenager Ronald P. , Schoonmaker Jon P.
Published: February 2017

This study was conducted to determine the impact of dried distiller's grain with solubles (DDGS) from 192 days of gestation through 118 days of lactation on feedlot performance, carcass characteristics, Longissimus muscle (LM) fatty acids and glucose tolerance of male progeny (n = 36). Angus‐Simmental heifer dams were fed diets that contained either DDGS (DG) or not (CON) formulated to provide similar daily net energy for gain but differing crude protein. In the feedlot, male progeny were fed a diet devoid of DDGS. An intravenous glucose tolerance test (IVGTT) was performed on a subset of 20 steers prior to harvest. Steers were harvested at a common 12th rib fat depth. Data were analyzed with the GLIMMIX and MIXED procedures of SAS. Performance (P ≥ 0.11) and glucose and insulin concentrations during IVGTT (P ≥ 0.24) did not differ between treatments. Dressing percentage tended to be greater (P = 0.09) in DG than CON progeny, but all other carcass characteristics did not differ (P ≥ 0.18). Progeny from DG dams had greater LM 16:2, 18:0, and 20:1 n‐9 concentrations than progeny from CON dams (P ≤ 0.02). In conclusion, DDGS are a viable option for gestating and lactating beef cows.
Population pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of linezolid‐induced thrombocytopenia in hospitalized patients
Authors: Tsuji Yasuhiro , Holford Nicholas H.G. , Kasai Hidefumi , Ogami Chika , Heo Young‐A , Higashi Yoshitsugu , Mizoguchi Akiko , To Hideto , Yamamoto Yoshihiro
Published: February 2017

Aims

Thrombocytopenia is among the most important adverse effects of linezolid treatment. Linezolid‐induced thrombocytopenia incidence varies considerably but has been associated with impaired renal function. We investigated the pharmacodynamic mechanism (myelosuppression or enhanced platelet destruction) and the role of impaired renal function (RF) in the development of thrombocytopenia.

Methods

The pharmacokinetics of linezolid were described with a two‐compartment distribution model with first‐order absorption and elimination. RF was calculated using the expected creatinine clearance. The decrease platelets by linezolid exposure was assumed to occur by one of two mechanisms: inhibition of the formation of platelets (PDI) or stimulation of the elimination (PDS) of platelets.

Results

About 50% of elimination was found to be explained by renal clearance (normal RF). The population mean estimated plasma protein binding of linezolid was 18% [95% confidence interval (CI) 16%, 20%] and was independent of the observed concentrations. The estimated mixture model fraction of patients with a platelet count decreased due to PDI was 0.97 (95% CI 0.87, 1.00), so the fraction due to PDS was 0.03. RF had no influence on linezolid pharmacodynamics.

Conclusion

We have described the influence of weight, renal function, age and plasma protein binding on the pharmacokinetics of linezolid. This combined pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic and turnover model identified that the most common mechanism of thrombocytopenia associated with linezolid is PDI. Impaired RF increases thrombocytopenia by a pharmacokinetic mechanism. The linezolid dose should be reduced in RF.
The Development of Spatial Skills in Elementary School Students
Authors: Carr Martha , Alexeev Natalia , Wang Lu , Barned Nicole , Horan Erin , Reed Adam
Published: February 2017

Through five waves of data collection, this longitudinal study investigated the development of spatial skills in 304 elementary school children (Mage = 7.64 years) as they progressed from the second to fourth grade. The study focused on whether multiple latent classes with different developmental profiles best explain development. Spatial skills were measured by tests featuring two‐dimensional figures. Mathematics achievement was measured by the statewide end‐of‐year test and was included as a distal outcome variable. The role of covariates, including socioeconomic status, verbal working memory, and gender, was also explored. The results indicate a need to view two‐dimensional spatial skills development as multidimensional with two developmental profiles predicted by socioeconomic status, verbal working memory, and gender. The developmental profiles predicted differences in mathematics achievement.
Ten‐year incidence and prevalence of clinically diagnosed blepharitis in South Korea: a nationwide population‐based cohort study
Authors: Rim Tyler Hyungtaek , Kang Min Jae , Choi Moonjung , Seo Kyoung Yul , Kim Sung Soo
Published: February 2017

Importance

Blepharitis is one of the most common conditions. However, no study has yet evaluated the epidemiology by evaluating a large population‐based sample.

Background

To evaluate the incidence and prevalence of clinically diagnosed blepharitis in South Korea.

Design

Nationwide population‐based study.

Participants

We investigated the Korean National Health Insurance Service‐National Sample Cohort, a representative one million‐sample of the Korean population, for patients diagnosed with blepharitis according to the Korean Classification of Diseases.

Methods

Annual and overall incidence and prevalence of blepharitis during the study period (2004–2013) were estimated after excluding chronic blepharitis patients, diagnosed during 2002–2003. Sociodemographic factors and comorbidities associated with blepharitis were evaluated using Cox proportional hazard regression.

Main Outcome Measures

The first occurrence of blepharitis.

Results

A total of 1 116 363 individuals over 9 698 118 person‐years were evaluated (mean follow up: 8.7 years) from 2004 to 2013. The overall incidence was 1.1 (95% confidence interval, 1.1–1.1) per 100 person‐years. The incidence increased with time (0.9 vs. 1.3 per 100 person‐years, in 2004 and 2013, respectively) and was higher in female patients (1.3 vs. 0.9 per 100 person‐years, respectively). The overall prevalence was 8.1% (95% confidence interval: 8.0–8.1) among subjects aged 40 years or older. Chalazion, gastritis, Sjögren's syndrome, pterygium, rosacea, prostatic hypertrophy, atopy, irritable bowel disease and peptic ulcer were associated with an increased incidence of blepharitis in the multivariable Cox model.

Conclusions

We found that blepharitis was a relatively common disease and is associated with various ocular and systemic conditions.