bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationship between engagement and knowledge attainment in a computer-based training game and job performance of travel agents
Authors: Calvo Lizette Cruzie , Reio Thomas
Published: May 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relation between learning engagement (time spent in playing the game) and knowledge attainment (points earned answering questions) and sales performance on the job. Knowledge attainment was also examined as a mediator of the engagement-performance relation.

Design/methodology/approach

In this nonexperimental study, travel agent engagement, knowledge, and sales performance data were collected from 309 cruise industry participants. A combination of MANOVA, correlation and regression analyses were used to examine these relations.

Findings

Moderate to strong positive and statistically significant relations were found between learning engagement and knowledge attainment, and learning engagement and sales performance. Additional analysis revealed that knowledge attainment mediated the link between learning engagement and sales performance.

Research limitations/implications

Because the study was not designed to examine causal relations among the research variables, its generalizability was limited. Still, moderate to strong relations were found between learning engagement and knowledge attainment, and knowledge attainment and sales performance. Further, while engagement had a direct effect on sales performance, it also had an indirect effect through the knowledge attainment variable. The findings provide preliminary support for further research into how serious computer games motivate learner and engagement and learning best and how each is linked to important organizational outcomes like performance.

Originality/value

Serious computer games are becoming an increasingly useful means for promoting employee learning, development, and performance. This research offers new evidence that computer serious games can enhance learning and performance.
Drivers of service climate: an emerging market perspective
Authors: Hoang Hung Trong , Rao Hill Sally , Lu Vinh Nhat , Freeman Susan
Published: May 2018

Purpose

Drawing on social exchange theory, the purpose of this paper is to develop and test an integrative model of internal and external factors determining employee perceptions of their organizational service climate.

Design/methodology/approach

Data are collected from a sample of 549 service employees in local and foreign-owned service firms in the emerging market of Vietnam. Structural equation modeling is used to test the hypothesized relationships.

Findings

Leadership commitment to service quality, internal processes and service standards, work facilitation resources and service-oriented human resource practices are positively associated with service climate. Internal customer service mediates the effects of these variables on service climate, with the exception of work facilitation resources. Furthermore, competitive intensity negatively moderates the impact of the internal drivers on service climate. The results also suggest that, depending on the ownership types (local vs foreign firms), the influences of the internal drivers of service climate might differ.

Originality/value

Despite the recognition of the role of organizational resources in fostering service climate, the integration and processes by which such resources influence service climate have not been fully examined. In particular, little is known about the external factors facilitating or hindering service climate, especially from an emerging market perspective. By examining both internal and external drivers of service climate under different ownership types, this paper enriches the existing knowledge on service climate and provides important implications for service firms operating in emerging markets.
Exploring the impact of being perceived as a socially responsible organization on employee creativity
Authors: Abdelmotaleb Moustafa , Mohamed Metwally Abdelmoneim Bahy Eldin , Saha Sudhir K.
Published: May 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide insight into the emotional or affective mechanisms that underlie the relationship between employees’ perceptions of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and employee attitudes and behaviors. Drawing on affective events theory (AET), this study examines a sequential mediation model in which CSR perceptions influence positive affect (PA) at work which leads to employee engagement in the creative process that, in turn, affects employee creative behaviors.

Design/methodology/approach

Two-wave data were collected from a sample of employees working in the telecommunication sector in Egypt (N=208). The collected data were analyzed using structural equation modeling.

Findings

The study found a positive association between CSR perceptions and employee creative behaviors. The results also showed that CSR perceptions have induced PA, which, in turn, led to greater level of engagement in the creative process and eventually led employees to exhibit creative behaviors.

Originality/value

This is one of the first studies to use AET as a conceptual framework to explain the positive association between CSR and employee positive work outcomes (i.e. creativity). By integrating AET with CSR and employee outcomes literatures, this study contributes to the available knowledge regarding the affective or emotional mechanisms through which CSR perceptions could affect employee work behaviors.
Accounting and new product development
Authors: Feeney Orla , Pierce Bernard
Published: May 2018

Purpose

The traditional view of accounting as something that constrains innovation and conflicts with creativity is giving way to a more contemporary belief that accounting can enable innovation and support the innovative process. This paper aims to examine this evolving relationship between accounting and new product development (NPD) by exploring how interactions between NPD participants at various stages of the NPD process help to achieve the appropriate balance between firmness and flexibility which is necessary for NPD success.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study method is adopted. Strong structuration theory (SST) is used to examine the complex interactions that take place between managers at various stages in the NPD process, while the concept of minimal structures is drawn upon to explore how these interactions influence the role of accounting in NPD and help to achieve the desired balance between firmness and flexibility.

Findings

The findings of the study reveal that the use of accounting information in NPD is not necessarily prescriptive or normative but is embedded in the everyday interactions taking place throughout the organisation. Formal accounting information, which could be characterised as “push” information, is prepared and presented by the accountant as a formal requirement of NPD, where it is relied upon by the NPD Steering Committee to make stage-gate decisions in the latter stages of the process. This formal accounting information supports the technical structures within the minimal structures framework. Informal accounting information, which could be characterised as “pull” information, is prepared and used by the NPD team to make decisions from the early stages of NPD, often before the formal process has even begun. This information is regarded as a language or given understanding, and is often not even recognised as accounting information by those using it. This type of internalised language formulates the social structures discussed within the minimal structures framework. Together, the formal and informal use of accounting information, and the interactions implicated therein, provides the organisation with the appropriate balance of firmness and flexibility required to effectively govern the NPD process.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to accounting and innovation literature by using SST and minimal structures to explore interpersonal interactions in an NPD context.
(Non) coverage of sustainability within the French professional accounting education program
Authors: Boulianne Emilio , Keddie Leanne S. , Postaire Maxence
Published: May 2018

Purpose

This study seeks to identify how professional accountants in France are educated in sustainability; we examine the French accounting programs in regard to sustainability accounting education recommendations.

Design/methodology/approach

We analyze a variety of documents to ascertain what comprises the typical accounting education program in France. Additionally, we conduct five interviews of various stakeholders to understand the importance of sustainability accounting and education in the French context.

Findings

We note an interesting paradox in the French context: while the government requires the reporting and auditing of corporate sustainability information, we find that sustainability is not greatly present in the government-funded French accounting education program. We determine that the government’s power in setting the education agenda combined with its budget restrictions and ability to defer responsibility to other parties has resulted in this paradox in the French setting.

Practical implications

This research draws attention to the consequences of society ignoring sustainability education for professional accountants.

Social implications

This paper contributes to the discussion on how to educate responsible professional accountants and the implications for the planet if accountants are not trained in sustainability.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the important domain of sustainability accounting education. We also explore additional implications for the accounting profession and the general public.
Environmental ethics for tourism- the state of the art
Authors: Holden Andrew
Published: May 2018

Purpose

Environmental ethics has become an established subject of philosophy in recent decades in response to the contemporary environmental crisis. This paper aims to provide an overview of the key theories and concepts and critically evaluate the extent of their application in tourism studies.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on a systematic literature review of published academic papers that link environmental ethics to tourism. It subsequently attempts to provide a comprehensive review of what is currently a nascent field of research enquiry to comprehend and evaluate the relevance and implications of environmental ethics for tourism. Using a theoretical ethical framework of libertarian extensionism, eco-holism and the conservation ethic, moral debates that arise from their use in tourism are analysed. As a field of academic study that presently lacks research enquiry areas for future research investigation are subsequently identified.

Findings

The paper forms a part of the “State of the Art” series and subsequently does not present empirical findings. However, through critical evaluation, it demonstrates the complexity of the application of environmental ethics to tourism through differing perspectives within the subject and when nature’s interests are juxtaposed to concerns of anthropic ethics. To develop a stronger environmental ethics amongst tourism stakeholders that recognises the intrinsic value of nature, it is recommended that ecological virtue and literacy are key elements in this process.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper rests in providing a comprehensive overview of the existing level of application of the theories of environmental ethics to tourism; the appliance of theory to debates of tourism’s environmental challenges; and identifying research directions to help fill knowledge gaps.
Effect of pollination strategy, phylogeny and distribution on pollination niches of Euro‐Mediterranean orchids
Authors: Joffard Nina , Massol François , Grenié Matthias , Montgelard Claudine , Schatz Bertrand
Published: May 2018

Pollination niches are important components of ecological niches and have played a major role in the diversification of Angiosperms. In this study, we focused on Euro‐Mediterranean orchids, which use diverse pollination strategies and interact with various functional groups of insects. In these orchids, we investigated the determinants of pollination niche breadth and overlap by analysing the orchid–pollinator network and the factors that may have shaped it.

We constructed a database reporting 1,278 interactions between 243 orchid and 773 pollinator species based on a thorough literature review. We then focused on 153 orchid species for which phylogenetic data were available. We used Bayesian phylogenetic mixed models to study the relationship between specialisation (as estimated by the degree and degree in the projected network), pollination strategy and breadths of orchids’ spatial and temporal distributions, while correcting for the effect of phylogenetic relationships among orchid species and sampling effort. We then used a singular value decomposition of the orchid–pollinator matrix combined to a redundancy and variation partitioning analyses to investigate the determinants of similarity in pollination niches between orchids.

Specialisation was higher in deceptive than in nectar‐producing orchids and decreased with the breadth of orchids’ spatial distribution. When interactions were considered at the insect family level, similarity in pollination niches between orchids was solely explained by their pollination strategy and phylogeny. By contrast, when they were considered at the insect species level, this similarity was primarily explained by their geographical range and flowering time, although other factors had significant effects as well, with orchids using the same pollination strategy, being closely related and growing in the same habitats sharing more insect species than expected.

Synthesis. Specialisation in orchid–pollinator interactions depends on orchids’ pollination strategy and geographical range. The pool of insect families with which orchids interact depends on their pollination strategy and phylogeny, with consistent associations between some functional or phylogenetic groups of orchids and some families of pollinators. By contrast, the pool of insect species with which orchids interact depends on their spatio‐temporal distribution, suggesting that at a finer scale, orchid–pollinator interactions are more opportunistic than previously thought.
A Forensic Examination of Online Search Facility URL Record Structures
Authors: Horsman Graeme
Published: May 2018

The use of search engines and associated search functions to locate content online is now common practice. As a result, a forensic examination of a suspect's online search activity can be a critical aspect in establishing whether an offense has been committed in many investigations. This article offers an analysis of online search URL structures to support law enforcement and associated digital forensics practitioners interpret acts of online searching during an investigation. Google, Bing, Yahoo!, and DuckDuckGo searching functions are examined, and key URL attribute structures and metadata have been documented. In addition, an overview of social media searching covering Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube is offered. Results show the ability to extract embedded metadata from search engine URLs which can establish online searching behaviors and the timing of searches.
Engineering sucrose metabolism in Pseudomonas putida highlights the importance of porins
Authors: Löwe Hannes , Sinner Peter , Kremling Andreas , Pflüger‐Grau Katharina
Published: May 2018

Using agricultural wastes as a substrate for biotechnological processes is of great interest in industrial biotechnology. A prerequisite for using these wastes is the ability of the industrially relevant microorganisms to metabolize the sugars present therein. Therefore, many metabolic engineering approaches are directed towards widening the substrate spectrum of the workhorses of industrial biotechnology like Escherichia coli, yeast or Pseudomonas putida. For instance, neither xylose or arabinose from cellulosic residues, nor sucrose, the main sugar in waste molasses, can be metabolized by most E. coli and P. putida wild types. We evaluated a new, so far uncharacterized gene cluster for sucrose metabolism from Pseudomonas protegens Pf‐5 and showed that it enables P. putida to grow on sucrose as the sole carbon and energy source. Even when integrated into the genome of P. putida, the resulting strain grew on sucrose at rates similar to the rate of the wild type on glucose – making it the fastest growing, plasmid‐free P. putida strain known so far using sucrose as substrate. Next, we elucidated the role of the porin, an orthologue of the sucrose porin ScrY, in the gene cluster and found that in P. putida, a porin is needed for sucrose transport across the outer membrane. Consequently, native porins were not sufficient to allow unlimited growth on sucrose. Therefore, we concluded that the outer membrane can be a considerable barrier for substrate transport, depending on strain, genotype and culture conditions, all of which should be taken into account in metabolic engineering approaches. We additionally showed the potential of the engineered P. putida strains by growing them on molasses with efficiencies twice as high as obtained with the wild‐type P. putida. This can be seen as a further step towards the production of low‐value chemicals and biofuels with P. putida from alternative and more affordable substrates in the future.
“Forgetting familiar faces”: Staff perceptions of dementia in people with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Ryan Christian , MacHale Rosemary , Hickey Emma
Published: May 2018

Accessible summary

Dementia is an illness of the brain. It can make people forgetful and confused.

We talked to staff about what it is like to support people with dementia.

They told us that working with dementia is upsetting for family, friends and staff.

Background

Living with dementia is challenging, but poses unique difficulties for people with an intellectual disability. The process of dementia is also challenging for family, carers and friends.

Materials and Methods

This study explores the impact of dementia on direct care staff using a focus group methodology. Thematic analysis was used to investigate the staff narratives.

Results

Four key themes that emerged were as follows: (a) the difficulty of recognising symptoms of dementia in people with intellectual disabilities, (b) the process of diagnosis, (c) the challenge of dementia for the person, (d) the emotional impact of dementia for other people.

Conclusion

The themes identify a number of important potential targets for supporting staff and peers in this challenging area of work.
Supporting foster and kinship carers to promote the mental health of children
Authors: Fergeus Josh , Humphreys Cathy , Harvey Carol , Herrman Helen
Published: May 2018

The majority of children and young people removed from the care of their parents by the state of Victoria, Australia, reside in foster or kinship care. These children have experienced a broad range of adverse conditions and are up to 4 times more likely to experience problems with mental health than their mainstream peers. This paper draws on the perspectives of foster and kinship carers, describing the disconnection between their role as mental health advocates and their interest in early intervention in a field which is dominated by crisis and the historic marginalisation of foster and kinship carers. Thirty‐one foster and kinship carers across greater metropolitan Melbourne, Australia, contributed to this study through interviews and focus groups. Participants demonstrated a practical understanding of mental health and an ability to identify a range of conditions that have an adverse impact on the mental health of children and young people in their care. The paper concludes that there is a lack of systemic support and even a range of barriers that affect the capacity of foster and kinship carers to promote the mental health and well‐being of the children and young people in their care.
PPP1R21 homozygous null variants associated with developmental delay, muscle weakness, distinctive facial features, and brain abnormalities
Authors: Suleiman J. , Al Hashem A.M. , Tabarki B. , Al‐Thihli K. , Bi W. , El‐Hattab A.W.
Published: May 2018

We present 3 children with homozygous null variants in the PPP1R21 gene. A 3‐year‐old girl had profound developmental delay, hypotonia and weakness, poor feeding, recurrent chest infections and respiratory failure, rotatory nystagmus, absent reflexes, and a homozygous nonsense variant c.2089C>T (p.Arg697*). A 2‐year‐old boy had profound developmental delay, weakness and hypotonia, recurrent chest infections and respiratory distress, undescended testes, rotatory nystagmus, hyporeflexia, and a homozygous nonsense variant c.427C>T (p.Arg143*). An 11‐year‐old girl with profound developmental delay, weakness and hypotonia, stereotypic movements, growth failure, hyporeflexia, and a homozygous frameshift variant c.87_88delAG (p.Gly30Cysfs*4). In addition, these children shared common facial features (thick eyebrows, hypertelorism, broad nasal bridge, short nose with upturned nasal tip and broad low‐hanging columella, thick lips, low‐set ears, and coarse facies with excessive facial hair), and brain abnormalities (cerebellar vermis hypoplasia, ventricular dilatation, and reduced white matter volume). Although PPP1R21 has not yet been linked to human disease, the consistency in the phenotype of individuals from unrelated families, the nature of the variants which result in truncated proteins, and the expected vital role for PPP1R21 in cellular function, all support that PPP1R21 is a novel disease‐associated gene responsible for the phenotype observed in these individuals.
THE EFFECT OF PARENTAL MEDICAID EXPANSIONS ON CHILDREN'S HEALTH INSURANCE COVERAGE
Authors: Hamersma Sarah , Kim Matthew , Timpe Brenden
Published: May 2018

Research on public health insurance expansions has typically focused on those targeted by the expansions; we estimate the spillover effects of parental Medicaid expansions on the insurance coverage of their children. Expanding parental Medicaid eligibility may increase participation by already‐eligible, uninsured children by increasing the value of Medicaid enrollment for the entire family. However, parental expansions may also generate crowd out from private coverage. Using the Survey of Income and Program Participation during a period of major parental Medicaid expansions, we find substantial effects of the expansions on the Medicaid participation of children, with evidence of crowd out among some subsamples. (JEL H51, I13, I38)
Species composition, functional and phylogenetic distances correlate with success of invasiveChromolaena odoratain an experimental test
Authors: Zheng Yu‐Long , Burns Jean H. , Liao Zhi‐Yong , Li Yang‐ping , Yang Jie , Chen Ya‐jun , Zhang Jiao‐lin , Zheng Yu‐guo
Published: May 2018

Biotic resistance may influence invasion success; however, the relative roles of species richness, functional or phylogenetic distance in predicting invasion success are not fully understood. We used biomass fraction ofChromolaena odorata, an invasive species in tropical and subtropical areas, as a measure of ‘invasion success’ in a series of artificial communities varying in species richness. Communities were constructed using species from Mexico (native range) or China (non‐native range). We found strong evidence of biotic resistance: species richness and community biomass were negatively related with invasion success; invader biomass was greater in plant communities from China than from Mexico. Harvesting time had a greater effect on invasion success in plant communities from China than on those from Mexico. Functional and phylogenetic distances both correlated with invasion success and more functionally distant communities were more easily invaded. The effects of plant‐soil fungi and plant allelochemical interactions on invasion success were species‐specific.
Ossifying fibroma as a cause of blindness in a 5‐year‐old Quarter Horse gelding
Authors: Madrigal R. G. , Friedemann M. C. , Vallone J. M. , Ruoff C. M. , Vallone L. V. , Laughrey T. , Rech R. R. , Coleman M. C.
Published: May 2018

A 5‐year‐old Quarter Horse gelding presented to Texas A&M University Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital with a several week history of bilateral blindness. Neurological deficits included an absent menace response and severe atrophy of the optic nerve head in the left eye (OS) as well as decreased vision in the right eye (OD). Advanced imaging consisting of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed a large mass in the base of the skull invading the sinuses and asymmetrically compressing the optic nerves rostral to the optic chiasm. Due to the size and location of the mass as well as severity of associated neurological signs, humane euthanasia was elected. Necropsy examination identified a large mass effacing the sphenopalatine sinuses and compressing the optic nerves. Histologically, the mass was identified as an ossifying fibroma (OF) and degeneration of the optic nerves was confirmed. As anOFin this location has never been described in a horse, this case demonstrates a new differential for blindness in horses.
Voids as stress relievers and a palliative in fretting
Authors: Erena D. , Vázquez J. , Navarro C. , Domínguez J.
Published: May 2018

There are several procedures used to increase fatigue life of components suffering from fretting, certain of which involve the modification of the surface material properties or the generation of compressive residual stresses near the surfaces in contact. Moreover, relatively little attention has been paid to the situation in which the contact pair stiffness is modified by changing the geometry of the components. The present paper describes an analysis of the possible beneficial effects on the fretting life of introducing voids inside the material of the components under fretting conditions. From a 3D perspective, this manufacturing characteristic is difficult to achieve using conventional techniques, although additive manufacturing could achieve this easily. A numerical analysis of a typical cylindrical contact configuration in fretting is simulated, with the novelty of introducing circular holes beneath the half‐plane surface. These holes change the contact pair stiffness, leading to a decrease in the surface contact stress field.
Localising and tailoring research evidence helps public health decision making
Authors: van der Graaf Peter , Cheetham Mandy , McCabe Karen , Rushmer Rosemary
Published: May 2018

Background

Published research evidence is typically not readily applicable to practice but needs to be actively mobilised.

Objectives

This paper explores the mechanisms used by information professionals with a specific knowledge mobilisation role to make evidence useful for local decision making and planning of public health interventions.

Methods

Data are drawn from a NIHR project that studied how, when, where and by whom published research evidence is used in commissioning and planning across two sites (one in England and one in Scotland). Data included 11 in‐depth interviews with information professionals, observations at meetings and documentary analysis.

Results

Published research evidence is made fit for local commissioning and planning purposes by information professionals through two mechanisms. They localise evidence (relate evidence to local context and needs) and tailor it (present actionable messages).

Discussion

Knowledge mobilisation roles of information professionals are not recognised and researched. Information professionals contribute to the ‘inform’ and ‘relational’ functions of knowledge mobilisation; however, they are less involved in improving the institutional environment for sustainable knowledge sharing.

Conclusion

Information professionals are instrumental in shaping what evidence enters local decision making processes. Identifying and supporting knowledge mobilisation roles within health libraries should be the focus of future research and training.
Bazex‐Dupré‐Christol syndrome: review of clinical and molecular aspects
Authors: AlSabbagh Manahel M. , Baqi Mariam A.
Published: May 2018

Bazex‐Dupré‐Christol syndrome is a rare genodermatosis that manifests with the classical triad of basal cell carcinoma, follicular atrophoderma, and hypotrichosis; yet it may be accompanied by milia, ichthyosis, neurological symptoms, and visceral malignancies. Symptom onset is nonsimultaneous, and hence the diagnosis is often made late and the opportunity of counseling and following up is missed. This article aims toward providing a comprehensive review of the clinical perspective of Bazex‐Dupré‐Christol syndrome, highlighting the major clinical variants to facilitate reaching a prompt diagnosis. In addition, the molecular aspects are discussed. Though the gene responsible for this syndrome is yet nonspecified, it is confirmed to be localized to the long arm of chromosome X.
Guidelines for consistent cardiovascular post‐mortem examination, sampling and reporting of lesions in European zoo‐housed great apes
Authors: Strong V. J. , Sheppard M. N. , Redrobe S. , Baiker K.
Published: May 2018

Inconsistencies and inadequacies in both the approach to post‐mortem examination of the heart and the subsequent reporting of findings have been blamed for a lack of progression of understanding about great ape cardiovascular disease. In order to minimize and confront these issues in the United States, Association of Zoos and Aquariums‐member zoos have necropsy data collated by the Great Ape Heart Project using a protocol developed by their pathology advisors. In Europe, however, there does not appear to be in existence any standardization or process for consistent cardiac post‐mortem examination, data collection and/or relevant research. This article provides those readers working within/for European collections with a suggested protocol for the initial post‐mortem inspection and sampling of the hearts of great apes. This article also outlines the detailed macroscopic and histopathologic examination that is currently carried out at The University of Nottingham, UK, as part of an ongoing prospective, multi‐centre study into great ape cardiovascular disease aetiopathogenesis. Finally, readers are offered guidance on the reporting and description specifically of idiopathic myocardial fibrosis (also referred to elsewhere as fibrosing cardiomyopathy). The standardized post‐mortem examination of the great ape heart across European zoological collections will ensure a more uniform sampling procedure resulting in the availability of consistent good‐quality data. It is hoped that this will, in turn, inform diagnostic pathology and research in this area, and enhance understanding about the aetiopathogenesis of great ape cardiovascular lesions.
Editorial: Can omega‐3 fatty acids improve executive functioning? Will this reduce ADHD and depression?
Authors: Artukoglu Bekir B. , Bloch Michael H.
Published: May 2018

Families with children who have neurodevelopmental disorders and mental health problems often opt to use nonmainstream and complementary medicines including dietary supplements. One dietary supplement popular with parents seeking treatment for both depression and ADHD is omega‐3 fatty acids. This has led to much research and scientific debate dedicated to examining the efficacy of omega‐3 supplementation as a treatment for both depression and ADHD.
Pigmented transverse nasal band: A distinct presentation
Authors: Zawar Vijay , Daga Snehal , Pawar Manoj , Kumavat Shrikant
Published: May 2018

Pigmented transverse nasal band (PTNB) is an interesting morphological entity mainly of cosmetic concern. It is believed to be related to a defect in the development of the nasal cartilages and bones from childhood to adolescence. Some patients may have genetic predisposition. It is asymptomatic in nature and may be associated with certain dermatological conditions such as seborrheic diathesis, dermatosis papulosa nigra, ichthyosis, atopic dermatitis, acne vulgaris, psoriasis, and seborrheic melanosis.
Broad‐scale patterns in smoke‐responsive germination from the south‐eastern Australian flora
Authors: Carthey Alexandra J. R. , Tims Amy , Geedicke Ina , Leishman Michelle R.
Published: May 2018

Questions

Fire is a crucial component of many ecosystems. Plants whose seeds germinate in response to smoke may benefit from resource availability in the post‐fire environment. Smoke can influence germination timing and success, as well as seedling vigour, resulting in burgeoning research interest in smoke‐responsive germination. Research in this field has largely focused on four key ‘Mediterranean‐type’ fire‐prone ecosystems: the Mediterranean Basin, South African fynbos, Californian chaparral and Western Australia. There are far fewer studies from south‐eastern Australia, a fire‐prone but not “Mediterranean‐type” region. How does smoke‐responsive germination in this region vary according to ecological, phylogenetic, and methodological variables?

Location

South‐eastern Australia.

Methods

We investigated patterns of smoke‐promoted germination in south‐eastern Australian plants across habitat types, growth forms, fire response strategies, phylogeny, taxonomic levels and smoke application methods. We compiled and interrogated data comprising 303 entries on germination responses to smoke in 233 south‐eastern Australian plant species, from 33 different sources.

Results

Smoke‐responsive germination occurs at a lower rate (~41% of tested species) in south‐eastern Australian flora than it does in fynbos and Western Australian floras, and there is clear patterning within these data. Obligate‐seeding species were more likely to respond,LeguminosaeandRubiaceaewere less likely to respond (although we question the generality of these results), whilePoaceaewere more likely to respond to smoke. Finally, studies using aerosol smoke and studies conducted in situ were most likely to find smoke‐promoted germination.

Conclusions

Obligate seeders andPoaceaemay be selected for in habitats with higher fire frequencies, consistent with literature suggesting that short inter‐fire intervals favour grasslands over forests. These findings may be particular to south‐eastern Australia, or more widely applicable; more broad‐scale comparative research will reveal the answer. By synthesizing the south‐eastern Australian smoke germination literature we broaden our understanding beyond the better‐studied Mediterranean‐type floras.
Anthropic Concepts
Authors: Weiskopf Daniel A.
Published: May 2018

Natural kind concepts have the function of tracking categories that exist independently of our beliefs and purposes. But not all ways of tracking categories in the natural world involve conceiving of them as natural kinds. Anthropic concepts represent groups of natural, mind‐independent entities that are apt for serving various human interests, goals, and projects. They represent the natural world under a practical mode of presentation, as a set of material resources that can be transformed to further a host of functions and ends. I argue that cross‐cultural studies of traditional ecological knowledge provide evidence that many chemical, mineral, and biological concepts that are frequently taken to be natural kind concepts turn out on closer inspection to be anthropic concepts. Anthropic concepts are distinguished from artifact concepts, and a form of realism about the anthropic kinds that they refer to is defended.
Whole‐transcriptome analysis reveals genetic factors underlying flowering time regulation in rapeseed (Brassica napus L.)
Authors: Shah Smit , Weinholdt Claus , Jedrusik Nicole , Molina Carlos , Zou Jun , Große Ivo , Schiessl Sarah , Jung Christian , Emrani Nazgol
Published: May 2018

Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.), one of the most important sources of vegetable oil and protein‐rich meals worldwide, is adapted to different geographical regions by modification of flowering time. Rapeseed cultivars have different day length and vernalization requirements, which categorize them into winter, spring, and semiwinter ecotypes. To gain a deeper insight into genetic factors controlling floral transition in B. napus, we performed RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq) in the semiwinter doubled haploid line, Ningyou7, at different developmental stages and temperature regimes. The expression profiles of more than 54,000 gene models were compared between different treatments and developmental stages, and the differentially expressed genes were considered as targets for association analysis and genetic mapping to confirm their role in floral transition. Consequently, 36 genes with association to flowering time, seed yield, or both were identified. We found novel indications for neofunctionalization in homologs of known flowering time regulators like VIN3 and FUL. Our study proved the potential of RNA‐seq along with association analysis and genetic mapping to identify candidate genes for floral transition in rapeseed. The candidate genes identified in this study could be subjected to genetic modification or targeted mutagenesis and genotype building to breed rapeseed adapted to certain environments.
Of manners and hedgehogs: Building closeness by maintaining distance
Authors: Kavedžija Iza
Published: May 2018

This paper explores how the Japanese inhabitants of a densely populated urban neighbourhood negotiate proximity and distance in their social relationships. Based on ethnography of a community salon in the city of Osaka, the paper explores how topics and styles of conversation, modes of interaction between salon‐goers, are constituted with respect to a pervasive concern for manners and for the emotions of others. Focusing on the importance of ‘form’ and its relevance for morality, I argue that formality serves as an enabling device for creating new relationships among older Japanese, preserving sociality while protecting oneself and others from the burdens of emotion and excessive proximity. By focusing on the ethics of ‘doing things properly’ (chanto suru) I explore the relationship of manners and care. By taking manners into account, I turn my attention in this article to those relationships crafted and maintained amongst those to whom one is not very close, and with whom one may not wish to become intimate. In this way I explore the question of how to treat well those towards whom one wishes to maintain distance: in other words, how to care for those who are not one's friends?
“I choose to go without everything really”: Moral imperatives, economic choice and ageing
Authors: Mansvelt Juliana , Breheny Mary
Published: May 2018

Expectations for ageing well in later life are connected to, but not limited to, access to economic resources. This research investigates how older people of differing living standards reflect on choices made in the context of their everyday lives. In‐depth interviews with 143 older New Zealanders revealed that claims to choice were a means of validating oneself as capable, able to manage the uncertainty of life, and able to cope as one ages. Examining the exercise of choice in relation to access to economic resources demonstrates the interplay between the moral, material and social aspects of managing self. Choice reflects the tangible possibilities that are inevitably situated in the context of certain material conditions of life that interact in complex ways with the representational claims that people make to a coherent and self‐managing identity as an older person.
The HLA‐B*15:400N allele identified in a volunteer donor for hematopoietic stem cell transplant
Authors: Baek I.‐C. , Choi E.‐J. , Shin D.‐H. , Kim H.‐J. , Kim T.‐G.
Published: May 2018

HLA‐B*15:400N differs from HLA‐B*15:01:01:01 by nucleotide deletions from position 328 to 331 in exon 3.
IgA‐dominant extracapillary proliferative glomerulonephritis following Escherichia coli sepsis in a renal transplant recipient
Authors: Basic‐Jukic Nikolina , Coric Marijana , Kastelan Zeljko
Published: May 2018

Postinfectious glomerulonephritis (PIGN) generally occurs in association with staphylococcal infection. We present the first reported case of IgA‐dominant PIGN after Escherichia coli infection in a renal‐transplant recipient. A 65‐year‐old patient with stable allograft function and E. coli urosepsis was treated with ciprofloxacin for 2 weeks with excellent response. One week later he developed proteinuria 16 g/day. Renal biopsy finding revealed IgA‐dominant PIGN. He received steroid pulses and intravenous imunoglobulins without effect and had started with hemodialysis.
Cytomegalovirus prophylaxis in seropositive renal transplant recipients receiving thymoglobulin induction therapy: Outcome and risk factors for late CMV disease
Authors: Reusing Jose O. , Feitosa Emanoela B. , Agena Fabiana , Pierrotti Lígia C. , Azevedo Luiz S. F. , Kotton Camille N. , David‐Neto Elias
Published: May 2018

Background

Anti‐thymocyte globulin (ATG) therapy is a risk factor for cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease in renal transplant (RTx) recipients and therefore antiviral prophylaxis is commonly used. We evaluated the outcome of our current policy of 90 days of CMV prophylaxis in seropositive recipients given ATG and the risk factors for the occurrence of CMV disease after prophylaxis.

Methods

We studied a retrospective cohort of 423 RTx (2010‐2014) CMV‐seropositive adults given ATG induction therapy.

Results

54 (13%) patients developed CMV disease at a median of 163 days after transplant, of which 29 (54%) had viral syndrome and 25 (46%) had invasive disease. Median prophylaxis time (94 days) and immunosuppressive drugs were similar between groups (CMV vs no‐CMV). Those with CMV disease had more deceased donors and higher donor age, lower lymphocyte count, and lower median eGFR at day 90. Multivariable logistic regression analysis at day 90 and 180 found that eGFR ≤40 ml/min/1.73 m2 (but not acute rejection) was associated with late CMV disease. In a separate validation cohort of 124 patients with 8% late CMV disease, eGFR ≤45 and lymphocyte count ≤800 cells/mm3 at the end of prophylaxis remained predictive of late CMV disease occurrence.

Conclusions

These data indicate that antiviral prophylaxis adequately prevented CMV in seropositive recipients given ATG, but late disease still occurred. Low eGFR and low lymphocyte count at the end of prophylaxis may help identify patients at higher risk of CMV disease.
Management of immunosuppressive therapy in liver transplant recipients who develop bloodstream infection
Authors: Bartoletti Michele , Vandi Giacomo , Furii Francesca , Bertuzzo Valentina , Ambretti Simone , Tedeschi Sara , Pascale Renato , Cristini Francesco , Campoli Caterina , Morelli Maria Cristina , Cescon Matteo , Pinna Antonio Daniele , Viale Pierluigi , Giannella Maddalena
Published: May 2018

Background

Data about the optimal management of immunosuppressive therapy in liver transplant (LT) recipients with bloodstream infection (BSI) are missing. We aimed to describe the management of immunosuppressive therapy at diagnosis of BSI in LT recipients and to assess its impact on 28‐day mortality.

Methods

We performed a single‐center retrospective study of all LT recipients diagnosed with BSI, over 10‐year period. Multivariate Cox regression analysis of risk factors for all cause 28‐day mortality was adjusted for the propensity score of being managed with “any reduction” in immunosuppressive therapy at the diagnosis of BSI.

Results

We identified 209 episodes of BSI in 157 LT recipients: 107 (68%) male, median age 54 (IQR 48‐63) years. “Any reduction” was made in 90 (43%) cases including: dosage reduction of ≥1 immunosuppressive drug in 31 (15%), discontinuation of ≥1 immunosuppressive drug in 28 (13%), both dosage reduction and discontinuation in 13 (6%), complete withdrawal of immunosuppressive therapy in 18 (9%) cases. All‐cause 28‐day mortality rate was 13.4%, varying from 22% to 7% (P = .002) in cases with and without “any reduction”. Cox regression showed septic shock (aHR 3.15, P = .007) and “any reduction” (aHR 2.50, P = .02) as independent risk factors for all‐cause 28‐day mortality, while Escherichia coli (aHR 0.38, P = .03) and source control (aHR 0.43, P = .04) were protective factors. The final model did not change after the introduction of the propensity score for “any reduction”.

Conclusions

Any reduction in the immunosuppressive therapy was common and was associated with worse outcome in LT recipients developing BSI.
Screening Coccidioides serology in kidney transplant recipients: A 10‐year cross‐sectional analysis
Authors: Phonphok Korntip , Beaird Omer , Duong Tin , Datta Nakul , Schaenman Joanna , Bunnapradist Suphamai
Published: May 2018

Background

Kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) are at risk for reactivation and complicated infection due to Coccidioides. Pre‐transplant serological screening should provide benefit for patients from endemic areas. We evaluated Coccidioides seroprevalence by area of residence in KTRs at a major transplant program in Los Angeles.

Methods

We performed cross‐sectional analyses of adult KTRs who underwent transplantation at UCLA between 2007‐2016. Patients with Coccidioides serology by enzyme immunoassay (EIA) before or within 14 days from transplantation were included. Patients were classified as living in highly, established, suspected, or not endemic areas by their residential zip code.

Results

Overall prevalence of Coccidioides IgG and IgM were 1.4% and 2.8%, respectively. Of patients with positive serology, 31.4% had isolated IgG and 66.3% isolated IgM. Patients from established and highly endemic areas had IgG seropositivity of 3.7% versus 1.3% for patients living in suspected endemic areas(P < .01). Rates of IgM seropositivity were 3.7% compared to 2.8% respectively (P = .28). No patients from non‐endemic areas had positive screening serology.

Conclusions

Pre‐transplant serological screening for Coccidioides is recommended in kidney transplant candidates from endemic areas. We observed high seroprevalence among patients from highly and established endemic areas, for whom universal prophylaxis is recommended. For residents from less well‐established areas of endemicity, serological screening showed benefit in identifying patients at risk. In patients with isolated EIA IgM, performing repeat and confirmatory tests is recommended. Patients from non‐endemic areas had low risk of infection, however, a thorough social history is necessary to evaluate risk.
Political Humour in the Social Network Sites
Authors: Sezgin Ayşe Aslı
Published: May 2018

“Social network sites” first began to be used as new tools of political communication during the 2008 Presidential Election in the United States, and their importance became even more apparent during the Arab Spring. In the course of this, the social network sites became a new and widely discussed channel of communication. In addition to its ability to bring together people from different parts of the world by removing any time and space barriers, creates a virtual network that allows individuals with shared social values to take action in an organized manner. Furthermore, this novel, versatile and multi-faceted tool of political communication has also provided a new mean for observing various aspects of social reactions to political events. Instead of voters expressing their political views through their votes from one election to the other, we nowadays have voters who actively take part in political processes by instantly demonstrating their reactions and by directly communicating their criticisms online.