bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
When Do Ex-Sponsors Become Ambush Marketers?
Authors: Hoek Janet , Gendall Philip
Published: February 2016

Sponsors claim that ambush marketing damages the integrity and financial basis of an event, however, definitions of “ambushing” remain ambiguous, particularly where more than oneparty lays claim to specific images. When the New Zealand Rugby Football Union (NZRFU) changed its official apparel supplier from Canterbury International Limited (CIL) to adidas, CIL argued it was entitled to draw on its past involvement with the All Blacks. This paper explores ambush marketing in NZRFU v CILand concludes by offering suggestions that couldreduce the likelihood of similar situations arising
Sponsorship and Gay Sport: A Case Study of the 2000 Gay Softball World Series
Authors: Jarvis Nigel
Published: February 2016

The purpose of this exploratory study is to examine the sponsorship of a gay and lesbian sports event, and whether this differs from the sponsorship of more mainstream sports events. This is achieved by focusing on one particular non-mainstream sport and event, the Gay Softball World Series. It concludes that nonmainstream sports, such as gay and lesbian softball, have become a significant and legitimate, if problematic, cultural force and a desirable magnet for sponsors as corporations attempt to reach new target groups.
A Conceptual Model for Sport Services Marketing Research: Integrating Quality, Value and Satisfaction
Authors: Westerbeek Hans M. , Shilbury David
Published: February 2016

This paper advances our understanding of the relationship between quality, value and satisfaction in the context of spectator sport services. This is achieved through an analysis and examination of relevant secondary data culminating in a conceptual model. Although extensive research has been conducted in the three separate areas of quality, value and satisfaction, to date no work has been reported attempting to develop macro models that capture the concepts and their potential interrelationships. Such macro models could enhance the communication and stimulate further research for sport marketing scholars. This paper proposes a model apposite for further research and in the process leads to the potential confirmation, rejection or indeed, adaptation of the conceptualization of sport services.
Promoting Water Polo in Greece: Applying Marketing Theories and Techniques to Sport
Authors: Afthinos Yanni D. , Gargalianos Dimitris P.
Published: February 2016

The purpose of this paper is to present the theoretical conceptualisation that led to the communication improvements needed for water polo in Greece. The paper also studies the implementation process. The proposed improvements were: (a) arrangement of symbols on the Players' caps; (b) addition of team logo and name on players' caps; (c) redesign of players' caps; (d) addition of colour to players' caps; and (e) introduction of a full-body swimsuit. The result was that all but one (e) of the proposed modifications was implemented and adopted during the 1996-2000 National League periods of the Greek men's water polo Division A1.
The role of perceived fit in fans' evaluation of sports brand extensions
Authors: Papadimitriou Dimitra , Apostolopoulou Artemisia , Loukas Ilias
Published: February 2016

This study is one of the first efforts in sports marketing literature to assess sports fans' evaluation of brand extensions introduced by a professional sports team. Using measures of perceived fit between the parent brand and the extensions, it is hypothesised that increased fit will result in more positive fan evaluations and higher intention to purchase the team's extension. Results from correlation and regression analyses provide support for this hypothesis.
The role of involvement and income in predicting large and small donations to college athletics
Authors: Tsiotsou Rodoula
Published: February 2016

The purpose of the study was to classify donors who make large donations and those who make small donations to athletics programmes. In particular, the study investigated the degree to which involvement with the athletics programme, income and donor type discriminate individuals who make large donations from those who make small donations in an effort to predict donation level of prospect donors. The hypothesis that the three variables (involvement with the athletics programme, income and donor type) would classify athletics donors of small donations from athletics donors of larger donations was confirmed. The findings of the study provide theoretical and practical implications in predicting donation size, determining donor cultivation strategies and increasing fundraising effectiveness.
Reconciling managers' strategic vision with fans' expectations
Authors: Richelieu André , Pons Frank
Published: February 2016

This study presents a multi-method based approach to matching fan expectations and needs with a franchise's strategic vision. This approach is demonstrated by looking at a Canadian team in the National Hockey League. The needs of the customers are assessed through a questionnaire survey and an indepth interview with the franchise's marketing vicepresident. Results are discussed, discrepancies between the two positions are analysed and recommendations are made.
Celebrity or athlete? New Zealand advertising practitioners' views on their use as endorsers
Authors: Charbonneau Jan , Garland Ron
Published: February 2016

Substantial literature exists researching effective celebrity endorser characteristics, and a growing body of literature investigates the specifics of professional athlete endorsements. However, there has been little focus on selection from the advertising practitioner's perspective; research that does exist is limited to the United States and British markets. This research among New Zealand advertising agencies found that celebrities/athletes are used primarily to achieve' cut through' and that their use is generally thought to be effective provided there is a tight fit between celebrity/athlete, brand and message. Interestingly, for New Zealand practitioners, the risk of negative publicity and hiring costs were the most important factors in the endorsement decision.
Sources of information for purchasing golf clubs: personal and non-personal references
Authors: Yoh Taeho , Pedersen Paul , Park Meungguk
Published: February 2016

This study examined the information sources that golfers used to purchase golf clubs. Three personal references (family, friends and salespeople) and five non-personal references (television, newspaper, magazine, product catalogue and the internet) were examined from a total of 626 randomly selected golfers in the US. Approximately 85% of the golfers stated that their primary information sources for purchasing golf clubs were personal references. The results suggest that a marketing strategy should place more emphasis on personal sources than non-personal sources.
Marketing bodybuilding competition to females
Authors: Ricker Kat
Published: February 2016

When designing a marketing strategy to recruit females to participate in bodybuilding competitions, marketers should be aware not only of the established motivators inherent in females considering structured recreational activities, but also of the unique motivators for female potential recruits. Many traditional tactics used in bodybuilding marketing in the past have missed the mark. Chief motivators are fun, improved health and then, in descending order of importance, enhanced appearance, managing bodyweight, socialising and skill.
Distinguishing between short-term and long-term commitment in football shirt sponsorship programmes: towards a matrix of management implications
Authors: Chadwick Simon , Thwaites Des
Published: February 2016

Sponsorship literature is deficient in terms of its failure to consider the process of managing sponsorship programmes, in particular the problem of commitment that has been identified in many relationships. Employing football shirt sponsorship dyads (football clubs and shirt sponsors) as a focus, this paper sets out to investigate the determinants of sponsorship commitment. Using quantitative and qualitative techniques, three important determinants are identified: shared values, perceived benefits and opportunistic behaviour. Following validation of these findings, structured interviews revealed a distinction between short-term and long-term 'committers'. This paper therefore concludes by proposing a matrix of football shirt sponsorship commitment which explores the implications of engaging in a relationship with the
different 'committer' types.
An evaluation of the sponsorship of Euro 2004
Authors: Pestana Barros Carlos , Silvestre António Luís
Published: February 2016

Sporting events usually attract corporate sponsors because of the promise of easy, wide-reaching promotion of their brands through association with the event. This study investigates the brand recall and brand preferences of Portuguese citizens in relation to the sponsors of the UEFA Football Championship finals, Euro 2004. A questionnaire was carried out immediately after the event. A structural equation model with latent variables is estimated and managerial policy implications are derived.
The use of celebrity athletes as endorsers: views of the New Zealand general public
Authors: Charbonneau Jan , Garland Ron
Published: February 2016

Matching celebrity athletes with potential endorsement opportunities is often difficult. Yet there are easy-touse survey-based methods available. Based on a survey of the general public in New Zealand, this study uses both Ohanian's source-credibility scale and a constant-sum scale to help brand managers, player agents and advertising practitioners select good celebrity athlete-product fit. Four New Zealand athletes (two males and two females) and several products were included in the test. Results show that the female celebrity athletes outperformed their male counterparts as potential endorsers. Use of Ohanian's multi-attribute scale yields a level of richness and insight, prompting us to advocate the use of both scales in the pursuit of endorser-product congruences.
Ethnic identification, acculturation and sports identification of Latinos in the United States
Authors: Gacio Harrolle Michelle , Trail Galen T.
Published: February 2016

Sports management and marketing research has failed to study the dimensions of Latino sports consumption behaviour and fan identification. This research examined the relationships among ethnic identity, acculturation, identification with sport in general, and identification with specific sports for Latinos living in the United States. Even though the four models used fit the data well, in general, ethnic identity and acculturation had little or no influence on sports identification. Hence sports marketers should not create marketing campaigns solely based on the assumption that Latinos or any ethnic group are necessarily fans of any particular sport (e.g. soccer).
Effects of celebrity athlete endorsement on attitude towards the product: the role of credibility, attractiveness and the concept of congruence
Authors: Kim Yeung-Jo , Na June-Hee
Published: February 2016

This research addresses how the fit between celebrity athlete endorsers and the endorsed products may influence product attitudes. The findings reveal that participants evaluated an endorsed product more favourably when the fit between the celebrity athlete endorser and the endorsed product was congruent (vs incongruent; Experiment 1). Furthermore, participants in the high concept of congruence condition evaluated the endorsed product more favourably than those in the low concept of congruence condition only when the fit between the celebrity athlete endorser and the endorsed product was incongruent (Experiment 2).
Tribalism: definition, identification and relevance to the marketing of professional sports franchises
Authors: Meir Rudi , Scott Don
Published: February 2016

This paper examines the literature relating to tribalism and considers its existence and its relevance to the marketing of sport. Tribal marketing is not a feature of the philosophy dominating today's sports marketing programmes. It is suggested, however, that more focus be placed on the interactions and relationships of groups of sports spectators as tribal members, and this paper presents factors that should be considered by the sports marketer to encourage and facilitate tribalism.
Olympic Games host and bid city marketing: exploring issue management in the relationships among event stakeholder groups
Authors: Xing Xiaoyan , Church Anthony G. , O'Reilly Norm , Pegoraro Ann , Nadeau John , Heslop Louise , Séguin Benoit
Published: February 2016

Based on the work of Parent (2008) on mega sports events, this paper explores the relationships among events stakeholders in Olympic Games host/bid city marketing. It outlines research questions, identifies a theoretical framework to better understand Olympic city marketing, presents four essays related to issues within this framework, and provides conclusions and suggestions for future research.
European football under close scrutiny
Authors: Rouvrais-Charron Chantal , Kim Christophe
Published: February 2016

Consumers are increasingly looking beyond products, and are expressing concern for the respect of societal values. This paper analyses how football organisations and governing bodies in Europe are adapting their marketing strategies to reflect these concerns. 'Ethical charters' or 'ethical codes of behaviour' need to be redefined under close scrutiny from shareholders and stakeholders. Whether it is a deliberate decision or a forced change, football organisations must respond to simultaneous commercial and political pressures.
Can sponsorships be harmful for events? Investigating the transfer of associations from sponsors to events
Authors: Henseler Jöxrg , Wilson Bradley , de Vreede Dorien
Published: February 2016

This paper outlines how sponsorships can be beneficial or harmful to events. Using an experimental design and focusing on association transfers surrounding a snowboarding event, we illustrate that the sponsoring brand associations have a significant effect on the associations of the event. Our results indicate that in this instance some associations are transferred; others are not significant. Event managers must track which of these association transfers are occurring in order to understand and maintain their desired positioning.
Effects of ambush marketing: UK consumer brand recall and attitudes to official sponsors and non-sponsors associated with the FIFA World Cup 2006
Authors: Portlock Adam , Rose Susan
Published: February 2016

This paper examines ambush marketing activities and their effects upon UK football-oriented consumers. It questions previous definitions of ambush marketing and proposes one more relevant for today. The research focuses upon the identification of 'event-connected brand recognition' achieved by sponsor versus ambush brands and the role of 'event involvement' as a driver of this. The research employs a pre- and post-event design that aims to track consumer recognition of predesignated brands. Results give initial indications that consumers can discern differences between the two forms of activity and that high event involvement increases recognition. This paper contributes towards the debate about a change in the definition of ambush marketing against the backdrop of increasing media saturation surrounding major sporting events, and suggests that a more relevant descriptor would be 'parallel event marketing'.
Official supporters clubs: the untapped potential of fan loyalty
Authors: Theysohn Sven , Hinz Oliver , Nosworthy Steve , Kirchner Michael
Published: February 2016

Preference analysis was conducted among supporter club members of the German national soccer team. Survey results based on 493 completed questionnaires underline the market potential of official fan loyalty programmes due to a high average willingness to pay and a general preference for cheap and easy to implement 'right of first refusal' benefits for tickets as the main supporters club feature. Adequately designed supporters clubs may present soccer clubs with a new source of income while creating opportunities to improve stadium atmosphere and security.
An examination of sports sponsorship from a small business perspective
Authors: Zinger J. Terence , O'Reilly Norman J
Published: February 2016

This paper responds to the need for more investigation into the "conceptual underpinnings of sponsorships" (Gardner & Shuman, 1988, p.44) by investigating the spectrum of opportunities that are available to small firms - whether as sports donors or as bona fide sponsors - through the prism of small business Stages of Development theory. A multiple case study approach is employed to explore the nature of sponsorship activities being undertaken by small enterprises and to contribute to the advancement of the authors' 'philanthropy-sponsorship' continuum.

This research makes two contributions. First, it presents the classifications of 'patronage' versus 'semistrong sponsorship' versus 'fully functioning sponsorship' relationships, based on the nature of the expected benefits. Second, it evaluates the small business/sports property interface from the perspective of small business phases of development and proposes a framework for linking the small firm to sports sponsorship outcomes.
Interview with Stéphane Dor Marketing and Media Director, French Professional Football League
Authors: Helleu Boris
Published: February 2016

Stéphane DOR has been Marketing and Media Director of the Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP)since 2001. He is responsible for marketing and commercial development for LFP competitions, mainly League 1, and for France internationally and he manages the media strategy and broadcast rights for both.
Determinants of sports participation and attendance: differences and similarities
Authors: Lera-López Fernando , Rapún-Gárate Manuel
Published: February 2016

This paper analyses the determinants of sports participation and attendance in 40 sports and recreational activities in Spain. Ordered probit models are used to identify determinants in each case and to test for possible relationships. The results show that the two types of involvement, participation and attendance, are very different, the former constrained by economic, sociological and psychological variables such as gender, age, time availability and motivational factors, the latter explained by variables such as age, gender and size of household.
Sponsorship and CSR: is there a link? A conceptual framework
Authors: Plewa Carolin , Quester Pascale G
Published: February 2016

A prolific stream of research has demonstrated the unique potential of sports sponsorship to contribute to corporate image and to influence audiences around the world. Meanwhile, the concept of corporate social responsibility (CSR) has increasingly been identified in the literature for its potential to deliver a degree of competitive advantage. This paper builds on both these theoretical fields to develop a conceptual framework linking the effectiveness of sports sponsorship with the sponsors' CSR commitment to both employees and consumers.
A service quality framework in the context of professional football in Greece
Authors: Theodorakis Nicholas D , Alexandris Kostas , Ko Yong Jae
Published: February 2016

This study examines the mediating role of Overall Service Quality in the service quality-customer satisfaction relationship in the context of professional football. Quantitative data were collected from a survey of 415 spectators attending a professional football game in Greece. A confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was employed to examine the validity of the scale. Multiple regression analyses was used to assess the mediation effect of Overall Service Quality. Results of the CFA and alpha test supported the psychometric property of the scale. Overall Service Quality was shown to mediate the relationship between the five dimensions of service quality and fans' satisfaction.
Celebrity endorsement for sporting events using classical conditioning
Authors: Chen Chen-Yueh , Lin Yi-Hsiu , Claussen Cathryn L.
Published: February 2016

This research investigates whether conditioning (the systematic pairing of celebrity endorsers with sporting events) produces positive attitudes towards sporting events. It also investigates whether using celebrities who are highly congruent with a sporting event leads to a stronger conditioning effect. The results demonstrate that individuals exposed to the systematic pairing of a sporting event with a celebrity did develop a more favourable attitude towards the event than individuals in the control condition. Moreover, the pairing of a celebrity with a sporting event was more effective in forming a positive attitude towards the sporting event when congruence was high.
Psychometric comparability of brand personality scale: assessing brand personality matching between sports and corporate sponsors by using the congenerity test
Authors: Cho Sungho , Kang Joon-Ho
Published: February 2016

This empirical study examines the psychometric comparability of Aaker's Brand Personality Scale (Aaker, 1997) in sponsorship matching. It employs a structural validation protocol - the congenerity test (Ohanion, 1990) - to investigate the extent to which sports events and sponsors can be psychometrically matched. The results show that sports events and sponsors are comparable only in terms of limited numbers of the dimensions of the a priori scale. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Major sports events, destination image and intention to revisit from the foreign tourist's perspective
Authors: Dongfeng Liu
Published: February 2016

Existing literature reports the positive image impact of major sports events on sport tourists. This paper empirically tests the image impact of an overall sports events initiative on a host city, and on intention to revisit from the perspective of general international tourists. The findings show that major sports events, in general, can be useful in reaching out to tourists. However, it questions the utilisation of sports events in destination marketing to general tourists - as awareness of sports events actually depresses tourism atmosphere and
service image, as well as the overall destination image. Practical implications and future research are suggested.
Towards the regulation and restriction of ambush marketing? The first truly social and digital mega sports event: Olympic Games, London 2012
Authors: Chanavat Nicolas , Desbordes Michel
Published: February 2016

This study investigates the regulation and restriction of ambush marketing during the London 2012 Olympic Games, with analysis of actions taken via social networks and digital marketing related to the mega sports event. Results show that, where this issue was concerned, the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) was the most restrictive OCOG in history. However, there are neither specific legal tools nor international agreements to prohibit ambush marketing and protect official sponsorships. This paper looks at the proliferation of ambush cases during the London 2012 Olympics and underlines the widespread growth of this practice, despite reinforcement of existing laws. Findings show that brands were very imaginative at the expense of official sponsors and that social networks can be powerful publicity channels.
The mediating role of perceived value in two different price settings
Authors: Kwon Hyungil Harry , Pyun Do Young , Choi Kyong Keun
Published: February 2016

This study investigates the mediating effect of perceived value in the relationship between team identification and purchase intention towards licensed apparel within two different price settings (market price and 40% above market price). Considering adaptation level theory, cognitive dissonance theory and dual information processing, it is hypothesised that team identification will directly influence purchase intention when the price of a product decreases. Two models (partial mediation and full mediation) were constructed in each price setting and tested using structural equation modelling (SEM). The results indicate that the partial mediation model better fits the data for the 70,000 Won setting and the full mediation model was a better fit for the 90,000 Won setting.
Bankruptcy prediction: the case of Belgian SMEs
Authors: Cultrera Loredana , Brédart Xavier
Published: February 2016

Purpose

– The aim of this paper is to develop a bankruptcy prediction model for the Belgian small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through the building of a logit model that includes a selection of financial ratios.

Design/methodology/approach

– Using a sample of 7,152 Belgian SMEs among which 3,576 were declared bankrupt between 2002 and 2012, the model, which includes control variables such as firm size and age, aims to test the predictive power of ratios reflecting the financial structure, the profitability, the solvency and the liquidity of firms.

Findings

– The results report a satisfactory prediction accuracy and show that ratios as profitability and liquidity are excellent predictors of bankruptcy for Belgian SMEs.

Research limitations/implications

– Although the results seem to be conclusive, it could be noted that the healthy sample was not paired with the bankrupt sample. Other studies show that the use of paired samples makes it possible to increase the already good prediction rate. Also, further research could focus on intra-sectorial analysis.

Practical implications

– Beside its contribution to the academic literature on bankruptcy prediction of Belgian SMEs, this study may be of interest for investors or managers to help them to anticipate bankruptcy risks. It can also be useful for banks and other credit institutions in the assessment of credit risk of firms. Thanks to such models, they could better identify firms with a higher risk of failure in their lending decisions.

Social implications

– Given the increasing number of SMEs in Belgium, their significant role in the economy, the specific characteristics of the country in terms of political decision making, the institutional differences between regions and the current uncertain economic circumstances, bankruptcy prediction seems to be a necessity for the country.

Originality/value

– The originality of this paper lies in the fact that Belgian SMEs have been studied. This study may also be of interest to investors or managers because it may help them highlight accounting measures they should closely follow up to avoid bankruptcy.
The failure of business ethics
Authors: Boda Zsolt , Zsolnai Laszlo
Published: February 2016

Purpose

– This paper aims to investigate the systemic causes of the failure of business ethics (BE) and suggest some possible remedies. The discipline and the movement of BE has at least three decades of history. BE has developed concepts and theories, and provided empirical evidences. However, BE as a movement and as a practice has failed to deliver the expected results.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper uses results from management ethics, moral psychology and corporate governance to analyze the underlying causes of corporate unethical behavior.

Findings

– The failure of BE is deeply rooted in today’s corporation-ruled business world. BE has failed to realize systemic features of modern business and therefore missed its target. The social, ethical and environmental problems caused by corporations may require a different kind of treatment based on law, politics and social institutions.

Originality/value

– The paper uses models outside ethics to help business organizations to become more ethical in their functioning.
Increased ratio of ICOS+/PD‐1+ follicular helper T cells positively correlates with the development of human idiopathic membranous nephropathy
Authors: Shi Xu , Qu Zhihui , Zhang Li , Zhang Nan , Liu Yong , Li Man , Qiu Jinpeng , Jiang Yanfang
Published: February 2016

To identify the frequencies of different subsets of peripheral blood follicular helper T (Tfh) cells in human idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN), 39 patients with new onset IMN and 18 age‐ and gender‐matched healthy controls (HC) were enrolled for this study. The frequency of Tfh cells in venous blood were measured by flow cytometry, while concentration of serum IL‐21 was detected by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Correlation between the clinical features of IMN and Tfh cells was assessed by Spearman's rank correlation test. Overall, the frequencies of total, ICOS+, and PD‐1+ Tfh cells were increased in IMN patients, while the ratio of ICOS+/PD‐1+ Tfh cells positively correlated with IMN progression. However, the elevated serum IL‐21 level in three subgroups of IMN patients, stratified based on 24‐h urine protein levels, was not statistically significant compared to HC. Nonetheless, intracellular IL‐21 in Tfh cells was generally increased in all IMN patients, and closely correlated with IMN development. Finally, the frequency of IL‐21+ Tfh cells and the ratio of ICOS+/PD‐1+ Tfh cells were positively correlated with the estimated 24‐h urine protein of IMN patients. The data indicated that Tfh cells contribute to the pathogenicity of IMN. The ratio of ICOS+/PD‐1+ Tfh cells and the frequency of IL‐21+ Tfh cells may be indicators for evaluating the IMN development.
Effect of preparation and storage of khoa on physicochemical properties of milk fat
Authors: Kumar Amit , Upadhyay Neelam , Lal Darshan , Kumar Anil , Gandhi Kamal , Sharma Vivek
Published: February 2016

The changes in milk fat during the preparation and storage of khoa were studied in three different seasons. Milk fat was extracted from the samples with chloroform using Soxhlet extraction. The solvent was evaporated using a vacuum evaporator followed by nitrogen flushing. The extracted fat samples were analysed for Reichert–Meissl, Polenske, saponification and iodine values, butyro‐refractometer reading at 40 °C and free fatty acids (FFAs). The study revealed an increase in the FFA content during conversion and storage of khoa, while there were small changes in other physicochemical properties of milk fat during the preparation of khoa from raw milk and its subsequent storage at room temperature.
Two Simple Formulas for Evaluating the Lower Bound of the Impact Velocity in Vehicle–pedestrian Accidents
Authors: Zou Tiefang , Zhang Yonggang , Yin Ruoyu
Published: February 2016

Formulas for evaluating the lower bound of the impact velocity are valuable in vehicle–pedestrian accident reconstruction. The theory of classical mechanics and four hypotheses were employed to derive formulas; the research results and simulation/accident tests were employed to validate their feasibility. Then, two simple formulas were developed according to the distance between the rest positions of the vehicle and the pedestrian and the flight‐phase distance. The results showed that the evaluated results by the two proposed formulas are inferior to the existing results. The influence of a roadside step on the impact velocity, which decreased with an increase in the flight‐phase distance and a reduction in the road slope, was evaluated. Based on a real accident, the study concludes that the lower bound can be easily obtained with the proposed formulas, which can be used to determine the evaluated impact velocity during simulations.
CD33+/HLA‐DRneg and CD33+/HLA‐DR+/− Cells: Rare Populations in the Human Decidua with Characteristics of MDSC
Authors: Bartmann Catharina , Junker Markus , Segerer Sabine E. , Häusler Sebastian F. , Krockenberger Mathias , Kämmerer Ulrike
Published: February 2016

Problem

Human pregnancy needs a remarkable local immune tolerance toward the conceptus. Myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSC) are important players promoting cancer initiation and progression by suppressing T‐cell functions and thus inducing immune tolerance. Therefore, MDSC were expected within decidua.

Methods

Subpopulations of CD33+ immune cells were isolated from human early pregnancy decidua and characterized phenotypically and functionally by microscopy, FACS analysis, RT‐PCR, Western blotting and in the coculture with T cells.

Results

Decidua harbors CD33+/HLA‐DRneg and CD33+/HLA‐DR+/− cells which both express arginase, iNOS and IDO and a typical cytokine profile. Both subtypes potently suppress T‐cell proliferation and therefore fulfill the criteria of MDSC.

Conclusion

We characterized a new population of CD33+/HLA‐DRneg and CD33+/HLA‐DR+/− cells in human early pregnancy decidua with properties of classical MDSC and thus potentially being an important player in immune tolerance in pregnancy.
Immediate hypersensitivity reactions to ibuprofen and other arylpropionic acid derivatives
Authors: Blanca‐López N. , Pérez‐Alzate D. , Andreu I. , Doña I. , Agúndez J. A. , García‐Martín E. , Salas M. , Miranda M. Á. , Torres M. J. , Cornejo‐García J. A. , Blanca M. , Canto G.
Published: February 2016

Background

Although ibuprofen and other arylpropionic acid derivatives (APs) are the most common medicines involved in hypersensitivity drug reactions (HDRs) to NSAIDs, no patient series studies have been performed regarding immediate selective reactions (SRs) to these drugs.

Objective

To characterize patients with immediate selective HDRs to ibuprofen and other APs through clinical history and challenge.

Methods

Subjects who developed an HDR to APs less than 1 h after drug intake were included. Tolerance to aspirin was assessed and challenge was performed with ibuprofen in all cases, and additionally with the culprit drug (if different) in those patients that tolerated ibuprofen. Serum tryptase levels and tryptase immunohistochemical staining in skin biopsies were also assessed in some patients with a positive DPT to ibuprofen.

Results

From a total of 245 patients with a confirmed history of HDRs to APs, 17% were classified as selective immediate hypersensitivity reactors by both clinical history and challenge. A selective response to naproxen and dexketoprofen with tolerance to ibuprofen was found in 16 of 20 cases. Significant differences in serum tryptase levels were observed between 2 and 24 h in the 11 cases that were studied further.

Conclusions

Within the group of patients with HDRs to NSAIDs, APs can induce immediate SRs. Within this group, selective responses to a single drug or responders to several APs may exist, suggesting potential immunological cross‐reactivity.
Numerical modelling study of mechanisms of mid‐basin salt canopy evolution and their potential applications to the Northwestern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Gradmann Sofie , Beaumont Christopher
Published: February 2016

Salt canopies are present in many of the worldwide large salt basins and are key players in the basins' structural evolution as well as in the development of associated hydrocarbon systems. This study employs 2D finite‐element models which incorporate the dynamical interaction of viscous salt and frictional‐plastic sediments in a gravity‐spreading system. We investigate the general emplacement of salt canopies that form in the centre of a large, autochthonous salt basin. This is motivated by the potential application to a mid‐basin canopy in the NW Gulf of Mexico (GoM) that developed in the late Eocene. Three different salt expulsion and canopy formation concepts that have been proposed in the salt‐tectonic literature for the GoM are tested. Two of these mechanisms require pre‐existing diapirs as precursory structures. We include their evolution in the models to assure a continuous, smooth evolution of the salt‐sediment system. The most efficient canopy formation takes place under the squeezed diapir mechanism. Here, shortening of a region containing pre‐existing diapirs is absorbed by the salt (the weakest part of the system), which is then expelled onto the seafloor. The expulsion rollover mechanism, which evacuates salt from beneath evolving rollover structures and expels it both laterally and to the surface, was not successfully captured by the numerical models. No rollover structures developed and only minor amounts of allochthonous salt emerged to the seafloor. The breached anticline mechanism requires substantial shortening of salt‐cored, pre‐weakened folds such that the salt breaches the anticlines and is expelled to the seafloor. The amount of shortening may be too large to occur in the central part of a salt basin, but may explain canopy evolution closer to the distal end of the allochthonous salt. When applying the different concepts to the northwestern GoM, none of the models adequately describes the entire system, yet the squeezed diapir mechanism captures most structural features of the Eocene paleocanopy. It is nevertheless possible that different mechanisms have acted in combination or sequentially in the northwestern GoM.
Synthesis, Polymorphism, and Insecticidal Activity of Methyl 4‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐8‐iodo‐2‐methyl‐6‐oxo‐1,6‐dihydro‐4H‐pyrimido[2,1‐b]quinazoline‐3‐Carboxylate Against Anopheles arabiensis Mosquito
Authors: Venugopala Katharigatta N. , Nayak Susanta K. , Gleiser Raquel M. , Sanchez‐Borzone Mariela E. , Garcia Daniel A. , Odhav Bharti
Published: February 2016

Mosquitoes are the major vectors of pathogens and parasites including those causing malaria, the most deadly vector‐borne disease. The negative environmental effects of most synthetic compounds combined with widespread development of insecticide resistance encourage an interest in finding and developing alternative products against mosquitoes. In this study, pyrimido[2,1‐b]quinazoline derivative DHPM3 has been synthesized by three‐step chemical reaction and screened for larvicide, adulticide, and repellent properties against Anopheles arabiensis, one of the dominant vectors of malaria in Africa. The title compound emerged as potential larvicide agent for further research and development, because it exerted 100% mortality, while adulticide activity was considered moderate.
Comparison of Antiepileptic Approaches in Treatment of Benzodiazepine Nonresponsive Status Epilepticus
Authors: Bachhuber Armin , Lasrich Maike , Halmer Ramona , Fassbender Klaus , Walter Silke
Published: February 2016

Aims

Status epilepticus and seizure clusters are common neurological emergencies. The purpose of this monocentric, retrospective cohort study was to comparatively assess different antiepileptic approaches in the treatment of status epilepticus and seizure clusters, which were nonresponsive to benzodiazepines.

Methods

We reviewed medical records of 66 patients, who were treated for status epilepticus or seizure clusters in the Department of Neurology at the University of the Saarland between January 2007 and July 2012, and failed to respond to benzodiazepines with the equivalent dosage of at least 20 mg of diazepam. As endpoints, we analyzed both the effectiveness of lacosamide, levetiracetam, valproic acid, and phenytoin used as second‐ and third‐line therapy, and the Glasgow Outcome Scale at day 7.

Results

Sixty‐one (92.4%) of the patients had status epilepticus, and 5 (7.6%) had seizure clusters. The compared drugs were equally effective in terminating seizures. There was also no significant difference in the Glasgow Outcome Scale (P = 0.60) after 7 days.

Conclusion

Our data support the use of the modern antiepileptic treatment strategies, such as levetiracetam, valproic acid, and lacosamide in the treatment of status epilepticus and seizure clusters.
A Nuclear Attack on Traumatic Brain Injury: Sequestration of Cell Death in the Nucleus
Authors: Tajiri Naoki , De La Peña Ike , Acosta Sandra A. , Kaneko Yuji , Tamir Sharon , Landesman Yosef , Carlson Robert , Shacham Sharon , Borlongan Cesar V.
Published: February 2016

Background

Exportin 1 (XPO1/CRM1) plays prominent roles in the regulation of nuclear protein export. Selective inhibitors of nuclear export (SINE) are small orally bioavailable molecules that serve as drug‐like inhibitors of XPO1, with potent anti‐cancer properties. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) presents with a secondary cell death characterized by neuroinflammation that is putatively regulated by nuclear receptors.

Aims and Results

Here, we report that the SINE compounds (KPT‐350 or KPT‐335) sequestered TBI‐induced neuroinflammation‐related proteins (NF‐kB, AKT, FOXP1) within the nucleus of cultured primary rat cortical neurons, which coincided with protection against TNF‐α (20 ng/mL)‐induced neurotoxicity as shown by at least 50% and 100% increments in preservation of cell viability and cellular enzymatic activity, respectively, compared to non‐treated neuronal cells (P's < 0.05). In parallel, using an in vivo controlled cortical impact (CCI) model of TBI, we demonstrate that adult Sprague‐Dawley rats treated post‐injury with SINE compounds exhibited significant reductions in TBI‐induced behavioral and histological deficits. Animals that received KPT‐350 orally starting at 2 h post‐TBI and once a day thereafter over the next 4 days exhibited significantly better motor coordination, and balance in the rotorod test and motor asymmetry test by 100–200% improvements, as early as 4 h after initial SINE compound injection that was sustained during subsequent KPT‐350 dosing, and throughout the 18‐day post‐TBI study period compared to vehicle treatment (P's < 0.05). Moreover, KPT‐350 reduced cortical core impact area and peri‐impact cell death compared to vehicle treatment (P's < 0.05).

Conclusions

Both in vitro and in vivo experiments revealed that KPT‐350 increased XPO1, AKT, and FOXP1 nuclear expression and relegated NF‐kB expression within the neuronal nuclei. Altogether, these findings advance the utility of SINE compounds to stop trafficking of cell death proteins within the nucleus as an efficacious treatment for TBI.
Effect of Acupuncture on the Motor and Nonmotor Symptoms in Parkinson's Disease—A Review of Clinical Studies
Authors: Zeng Bai‐Yun , Zhao Kaicun
Published: February 2016

Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder. Parkinson's clinical feature is characterized by its motor manifestations, although its many nonmotor symptoms occur earlier and have more profound impact on the quality of patient's life. Acupuncture has been increasingly popular and has been used to treat patients with Parkinson's. In this article, we have studied the clinical reports of acupuncture treatment for Parkinson's, which were listed in Medline, PubMed,EMBASE,CNKI, andCINAHLdatabases in the past 15 years. It was found that acupuncture either manual or electroacupuncture stimulation at specific acupoints relieved some motor symptoms in patients with Parkinson's and markedly improved many nonmotor symptoms such as psychiatric disorders, sleep problems, and gastrointestinal symptoms. When it was used as an adjunct for levodopa, acupuncture improved therapeutic efficacy and reduced dosage and the occurrence of side effects of levodopa. However, the results were constrained by small sample sizes, methodological flaws, and blinding methods of studies. Although the evidence for the effectiveness of acupuncture for treating Parkinson's is inconclusive, therapeutic potential of acupuncture seems quite promising. More studies, either comparative effectiveness research or high‐quality placebo‐controlled clinical studies are warranted.
CD49f promotes proliferation of male dairy goat germline stem cells
Authors: Zheng Liming , Zhu Haijing , Mu Hailong , Wu Jiang , Song Wencong , Zhai Yuanxin , Peng Sha , Li Guangpeng , Hua Jinlian
Published: February 2016

Objectives

CD49f enhances multipotency and maintains stemness in embryonic stem cells (ESCs), however, whether it would be effective in mGSCs has remained unclear. Moreover, better standards for mGSC enrichment and purification are necessary. The present study was conducted to determine roles of CD49f in mGSC enrichment and regulation.

Materials and methods

CD49f expression patterns were investigated in dairy goats. CD49f positive cells were purified and enriched using magnetic‐activated cell sorting (MACS), and characteristics of the cultured cells were assayed using alkaline phosphatase (AP) analysis, quantitative real‐time PCR (QRT‐PCR) and immunofluorescence analysis. Furthermore, the exogenous CD49f gene was transfected into mGSCs and its effects were analysed.

Results

CD49f was found to be conserved in both mRNA and amino acid sequences and that it was an efficient marker for dairy goat mGSC identification, enrichment and purification. CD49f positive cells expressed higher levels of mGSC‐specific markers, and proliferated faster than CD49f negative cells. Overexpression CD49f promoted proliferation of dairy goat mGSCs, and Oct4 expression was upregulated; histone H3‐lysine 9 dimethylation (H3K9me2) was reduced.

Conclusions

Taken together, our data suggest that CD49f plays novel and dynamic roles in regulating maintenance of pluripotency in mGSCs via Oct4 crosstalk and histone methylation dynamics,which may provide new solutions for mGSCs stability in vitro.
sdm: a reproducible and extensible R platform for species distribution modelling
Authors: Naimi Babak , Araújo Miguel B.
Published: February 2016

sdm is an object‐oriented, reproducible and extensible, platform for species distribution modelling. It uses individual species and community‐based approaches, enabling ensembles of models to be fitted and evaluated, to project species potential distributions in space and time. It provides a standardized and unified structure for handling species distributions data and modelling techniques, and supports markedly different modelling approaches, including correlative, process‐based (mechanistic), agent‐based, and cellular automata. The object‐oriented design of software is such that scientists can modify existing methods, extend the framework by developing new methods or modelling procedures, and share them to be reproduced by other scientists. sdm can handle spatial and temporal data for single or multiple species and uses high performance computing solutions to speed up modelling and simulations. The framework is implemented in R, providing a flexible and easy‐to‐use GUI interface.
Exploring the unknown: electrophysiological and behavioural measures of visuospatial learning
Authors: Quinlivan Brendan , Butler John S. , Ridwan Abdur Raquib , Beiser Ines , Williams Laura , McGovern Eavan , O'Riordan Sean , Hutchinson Michael , Reilly Richard B.
Published: February 2016

Visuospatial memory describes our ability to temporarily store and manipulate visual and spatial information and is employed for a wide variety of complex cognitive tasks. Here, a visuospatial learning task requiring fine motor control is employed to investigate visuospatial learning in a group of typically developing adults. Electrophysiological and behavioural data are collected during a target location task under two experimental conditions: Target Learning and Target Cued. Movement times (MTs) are employed as a behavioural metric of performance, while dynamic P3b amplitudes and power in the alpha band (approximately 10 Hz) are explored as electrophysiological metrics during visuospatial learning. Results demonstrate that task performance, as measured by MT, is highly correlated with P3b amplitude and alpha power at a consecutive trial level (trials 1–30). The current set of results, in conjunction with the existing literature, suggests that changes in P3b amplitude and alpha power could correspond to different aspects of the learning process. Here it is hypothesized that changes in P3b correspond to a diminishing inter‐stimulus interval and reduced stimulus relevance, while the corresponding changes in alpha power represent an automation of response as habituation occurs in participants. The novel analysis presented in the current study demonstrates how gradual electrophysiological changes can be tracked during the visuospatial learning process under the current paradigm.