bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Slow and steady: the evolution of cranial disparity in fossil and recent turtles
Authors: Foth Christian , Joyce Walter G.
Published: November 2016

Turtles (Testudinata) are a diverse group of amniotes that have a rich fossil record that extends back to the Late Triassic, but little is known about global patterns of disparity through time. We here investigate the cranial disparity of 172 representatives of the turtle lineage and their ancestors grouped into 20 time bins ranging from the Late Triassic until the Recent using two-dimensional geometric morphometrics. Three evolutionary phases are apparent in all three anatomical views investigated. In the first phase, disparity increases gradually from the Late Triassic to the Palaeogene with only a minor perturbation at the K/T extinct event. Although global warming may have influenced this increase, we find the Mesozoic fragmentation of Pangaea to be a more plausible factor. Following its maximum, disparity decreases strongly towards the Miocene, only to recover partially towards the Recent. The marked collapse in disparity is likely a result of habitat destruction caused by global drying, combined with the homogenization of global turtle faunas that resulted from increased transcontinental dispersal in the Tertiary. The disparity minimum in the Miocene is likely an artefact of poor sampling.
Handicap principle implies emergence of dimorphic ornaments
Authors: Clifton Sara M. , Braun Rosemary I. , Abrams Daniel M.
Published: November 2016

Species spanning the animal kingdom have evolved extravagant and costly ornaments to attract mating partners. Zahavi's handicap principle offers an elegant explanation for this: ornaments signal individual quality, and must be costly to ensure honest signalling, making mate selection more efficient. Here, we incorporate the assumptions of the handicap principle into a mathematical model and show that they are sufficient to explain the heretofore puzzling observation of bimodally distributed ornament sizes in a variety of species.
Microreact: visualizing and sharing data for genomic epidemiology and phylogeography
Authors: Argimón Silvia , Abudahab Khalil , Goater Richard J. E. , Fedosejev Artemij , Bhai Jyothish , Glasner Corinna , Feil Edward J. , Holden Matthew T. G. , Yeats Corin A. , Grundmann Hajo , Spratt Brian G. , Aanensen David M.
Published: November 2016

Visualization is frequently used to aid our interpretation of complex datasets. Within microbial genomics, visualizing the relationships between multiple genomes as a tree provides a framework onto which associated data (geographical, temporal, phenotypic and epidemiological) are added to generate hypotheses and to explore the dynamics of the system under investigation. Selected static images are then used within publications to highlight the key findings to a wider audience. However, these images are a very inadequate way of exploring and interpreting the richness of the data. There is, therefore, a need for flexible, interactive software that presents the population genomic outputs and associated data in a user-friendly manner for a wide range of end users, from trained bioinformaticians to front-line epidemiologists and health workers. Here, we present Microreact, a web application for the easy visualization of datasets consisting of any combination of trees, geographical, temporal and associated metadata. Data files can be uploaded to Microreact directly via the web browser or by linking to their location (e.g. from Google Drive/Dropbox or via API), and an integrated visualization via trees, maps, timelines and tables provides interactive querying of the data. The visualization can be shared as a permanent web link among collaborators, or embedded within publications to enable readers to explore and download the data. Microreact can act as an end point for any tool or bioinformatic pipeline that ultimately generates a tree, and provides a simple, yet powerful, visualization method that will aid research and discovery and the open sharing of datasets.
Genome-level parameters describe the pan-nuclear fractal nature of eukaryotic interphase chromosomal arrangement
Authors: Fatakia Sarosh N. , Rao Basuthkar J.
Published: November 2016

Long-range inter-chromosomal interactions in the interphase nucleus subsume critical genome-level regulatory functions such as transcription and gene expression. To decipher a physical basis of diverse pan-nuclear inter-chromosomal arrangement that facilitates these processes, we investigate the scaling effects as obtained from disparate eukaryotic genomes and compare their total number of genes with chromosome size. First, we derived the pan-nuclear average fractal dimension of inter-chromosomal arrangement in interphase nuclei of different species and corroborated our predictions with independently reported results. Then, we described the different patterns across disparate unicellular and multicellular eukaryotes. We report that, unicellular lower eukaryotes have inter-chromosomal fractal dimension ≈ 1 at pan-nuclear dimensions, which is analogous to the multi-polymer crumpled globule model. Multi-fractal dimensions, corresponding to different inter-chromosomal arrangements emerged from multicellular eukaryotes, such that closely related species have relatively similar patterns. Using this theoretical approach, we computed that the average fractal dimension from human acrocentric versus metacentric chromosomes was distinct, implying that a multi-fractal nature of inter-chromosomal geometry may facilitate viable large-scale chromosomal aberrations, such as Robertsonian translocation. Next, based on inter-chromosomal geometry, we also report that this average multi-fractal dimension in nocturnal mammals is distinct from diurnal ones, and our result seems to corroborate the plasticity of the inter-chromosomal arrangement reported among nocturnal species. (For example, the arrangement of heterochromatin versus euchromatin in rod photoreceptor and fibroblast cells ofMus musculusis inverted.) Altogether, our results substantiate that genome-level constraints have also co-evolved with the average pan-nuclear fractal dimension of inter-chromosomal folding during eukaryotic evolution.
Estimation of time-varying decision thresholds from the choice and reaction times with no assumption on the shape
Authors: Kang Yul Hyoung Ryul
Published: November 2016

When a decision is made based on a series of samples of evidence, the threshold for decision may change over time. Here we propose a fast heuristic algorithm that estimates the time-varying thresholds without making an assumption on their shape. The algorithm gives an approximate best estimate of the time-varying thresholds for all time considered when all other parameters are fixed. The algorithm outperforms conventional methods that gradually adjust the threshold estimates during fitting, when fitting time is limited.
DMAP – Graphical representation of physical and genetic map correlation
Authors: Martin David M.A. , Bryan Glenn
Published: November 2016

Next-generation sequencing approaches coupled with appropriate assembly software can provide draft genome sequences of complex organisms as a series of unordered contigs in a timely and cost effective manner. Likewise, high throughput mapping technologies such as DArT and SNP platforms can provide a high density of sequence-anchored markers with which high resolution genetic maps can be constructed. Visualising and interpreting these data requires a new generation of tools as the volume of data leads to considerable redundancy and information overload in graphical representation. DMAP provides a highly configurable visual representation of physical and genetic map correlation, reducing data representation to an aesthetically acceptable degree. It also calculates an optimal orientation for the ordered sequence contigs, highlighting markers that are anomalous and contigs which may be in erroneous positions. Output is as PDF, allowing subsequent refinement prior to print publication and vector based representation for online supplementary figures. The perl scripts have few dependencies and code is freely available under a creative commons license (CC-BY) from the author’s GitHub repository athttp://github.com/davidmam/DMAP.git.
Synthesis and structure of 1-(2-bromophenyl)-2-chloro-3-(2-chloracetyl)-1H-indole
Authors: Zhang Ting-ting , Wang Bing , Lu Qing , Zhao Jun-fang , Lei Hong , Fang Qi
Published: November 2016

In the title indole derivative, C16H10BrCl2NO, the dihedral angle between the mean plane of the indole ring system and the mean plane of the disordered 2-bromophenyl ring is 77.6 (1)°. The non-H atoms of the chloracetyl group are essentially coplanar with the indole core. In the crystal, pairs of molecules are face-to-face embracedviatwo weak C—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming inversion dimers with an interplanar distance between two parallel indole planes of 3.360 (3) Å. These dimers are connected by head-to-head Cl...Cl intermolecular contacts to build a two-dimensional molecular sheet parallel to (101). Neighbouring molecular sheets are stacked together to construct the three-dimensional structure by further short Cl...Cl intermolecular contacts. The atoms of the bromophenyl group were refined as disordered over two sets of sites with refined occupancies of 0.61 (2) and 0.39 (2).
Work-family studies in the tourism and hospitality contexts
Authors: Zhao Xinyuan (Roy)
Published: November 2016

Purpose

This review aims to summarize previous research on work–family relationships in the tourism and hospitality contexts. It then integrates the various approaches into a holistic model and identifies important areas for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

Over 150 research papers from the past 20 years were retrieved from Elsevier Science Direct, SAGE, Emerald, Taylor & Francis and EBSCOHost. In total, 77 papers reporting empirical research were analyzed in terms of concepts, theories, antecedents, consequences and methods.

Findings

The major findings on work and family issues in the tourism and hospitality contexts were synthesized. Critical topics for future research were identified. A holistic model of the factors that affect work and family was developed to improve the consistency of future research.

Research limitations/implications

An overview of work–family studies will provide a solid research background to tourism and hospitality faculty members and graduate students who are considering research in this area. This paper is a general review of previous research, and the review focus is relatively global.

Originality/value

This paper is the first comprehensive summary and narrative review of work and family studies in tourism and hospitality.
Night markets: entrepreneurship and achieving competitive advantage
Authors: Liu Chih-Hsing Sam , Fang Yen-Po
Published: November 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a new model and examine how night market entrepreneurs have achieved a competitive advantage in strongly competitive markets.

Design/methodology/approach

Two statistics methods, multiple regression analysis and structural equation models (SEM), were used to test the hypotheses for a sample of 346 vendor cases.

Findings

The results indicate that competitive aggressiveness and being proactive are positively related to risk-taking among night market vendors, which, in turn, has a positive effect on innovativeness. Further, the findings also indicate that risk-taking positively influences innovativeness and, in a mediating role, also affects competitive advantages through innovativeness.

Practical implications

Results of this study suggest that if night market entrepreneurs demonstrate innovativeness, positively develop new products and new services and attract customers to buy them, then they will have unique and attractiveness in the night markets, thus giving themselves relative competitive advantage.

Originality/value

This research is the first comprehensive examination of entrepreneurship among night market entrepreneurs to study the competitive advantages of different facets, which may provide a benchmark for future studies.
Exploring the effective restaurant CrM ad
Authors: Kim Sung-Bum , Kim Kathleen Jeehyae , Kim Dae-Young
Published: November 2016

Purpose

This experimental study aims to examine the effectiveness of cause-related marketing messages that incorporate both text and visuals, as compared to messages comprised solely of text, on the attitudes and behavioral intentions of restaurant customers, and to see if the impact varies across four categories of social causes (health, animal welfare, human services and the environment).

Design/methodology/approach

This experimental study uses a 2 (type of message) × 4 (cause category) between-subjects design.

Findings

Restaurant messages that combine text and visuals are more effective than restaurant messages with only text in engendering positive attitudinal and behavioral responses. This paper also found interaction effects between advertisement type and cause category on individuals’ responses (i.e. attitudes and behavioral intentions).

Practical implications

The messaging strategies suggested by this research will allow the restaurant industry to capitalize on the value of cause-related marketing initiatives.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the hospitality literature by expanding the realm of research on effective cause-related marketing initiatives.
Investigating the efficacy of a targeted youth intervention on negative problem orientation
Authors: Humphrey Kirsty
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the efficacy of a targeted youth programme that promotes social-emotion learning through an experiential learning, on negative problem orientation (NPO), and to identify to what extent risk (of disengagement) would have an impact on the outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

Participants were selected by their school teacher, using a risk selection tool and divided into two groups: “lower risk” and “higher risk” on the basis of three criteria (socioeconomic disadvantage, engagement and parental support). Participants were asked to complete the Negative Problem Orientation Questionnaire (NPOQ) before and after the programme.

Findings

Baseline NPO scores were significantly higher (indicating high levels of NPO) in participants who had a higher risk profile compared to those who had a lower risk profile, (t=17.79 (663), p<0.01). Overall, NPO decreased significantly from baseline to the end of programme assessment, (F(1,163)=41.0, p<0.01). Further analysis reveals that while there was a significant impact of the programme on NPO (greater than overall statistic) in higher risk young people (F(1,163)=63.8, p<0.01), there was no significant impact for those who were lower risk. This group scored slightly (but not significantly) higher than baseline (t=1.14 (664)=, p=0.253). There were no significant effects of gender (p=0.165) or ethnicity (p=0.72).

Research limitations/implications

The results of this study may add value to this field of clinical and academic research that recognise the importance of interventions that use socio-emotional learning and experiential learning to minimise NPO. More specifically, the present research suggests that young people at risk of disengagement, who come from disadvantaged groups may benefit from an intervention. This has long-term implications as interventions such as these, have been shown to have the largest impact on student’s academic, behavioural, social-emotional and motivational outcomes and produce benefits to pupils’ health and well-being.

Practical implications

The present research may contribute to a better understanding of the mechanisms responsible for contributing to a programme that enhances psychological well-being through NPO.

Social implications

The paper provides a good framework in terms of adding value for understanding the world of at risk young people and their psychological well-being and academic attainment, not to mention how this may affect young people in the long term. Mental health is a serious concern among young people and great cost to the NHS. Young people are not being seen by professions and the threshold is ever increasing. Prevention of the exacerbation of mental illness while waiting for treatment may be sought in interventions that concentrate on problem orientation.

Originality/value

The data analysis is applied to a specific group of at risk young people, on a novel intervention. Furthermore, there does not seem to be a large amount of research using NPOQ.
How workplace financial education can benefit your employees
Authors: Laverty Darren
Published: November 2016

Purpose

Financial education is about empowering employees to make their own financial decisions. It is about making people aware of the choices available and the course of action they may want to take – so they can be in the best financial shape for the future.

Design/methodology/approach

When a financial education programme is run, group tutorials are a key component. One particular tutorial focuses on cashflow modelling, with cash flow forecasting at the heart of such a programme. If people can visually see they cannot retire as early as they had hoped, then their focus may shift to increasing their savings. They review how they can cut-back now to set realistic objectives about their future.

Findings

Financial education could help to support employees in understanding how to do more for themselves financially, and to encourage them to assess their options and better plan their future.

Originality/value

This paper talks about how the shift in the retirement age will bring some challenges for companies and looks at how companies can address these changes. It also includes a mini case study.
Farewell to performance ratings
Authors: Wiskemann Gabriel
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the relation between individual performance and remuneration.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper critically examines the importance of payment systems as a means of directly controlling employee behavior.

Findings

Abolishing performance ratings does not mean denying the importance of performance as the essential reference value. Instead, it is precisely the concept of ongoing dialogue through which the performance aspect comes to the fore.

Originality/value

The paper examines dialogue as basis for performance-based payment.
Retaining older employees is a smart business move
Authors: Perrin Robert
Published: November 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to warn that the short-term cost-cutting measure of laying off older employees can result in long-term problems. It stresses the value that older employees can add to organizations and offers insights on what employers should consider when trying to retain and attract older employees.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper combines the personal experience of a consultant whose employees are all over the age of 50 bolstered by surveys noting what older employees want and expect in the workplace.

Findings

The paper concludes that older employees help companies save money by sharing their wealth of experience and helping younger employees avoid mistakes they have made or witnessed in their own careers. The paper argues that to retain and attract the best older employees, companies need to be flexible, provide good compensation and offer work that is interesting and meaningful. Just like younger employees, many older employees want companies that provide time-off for family commitments and offer opportunities for advancement.

Originality/value

This paper goes beyond detailing the value of older employees, in terms of knowledge, loyalty and connections and offers tips on how to attract and retain older employees from someone who successfully does so in his own business.
From Fusion to Agglutination: The Case of Asia Minor Greek
Authors: Revithiadou Anthi , Spyropoulos Vassilios , Markopoulos Giorgos
Published: November 2016

This article examines the nominal inflectional system of a group of Asia Minor Greek dialects (Dawkins,), which developed, in parallel with the fusional inflectional system, an agglutinative one due to language contact with Turkish. We argue that the ‘old’ fusional ending or the theme vowel was reanalyzed as part of the nominal stem. This novel structure was actualized by means of two competing options: in some dialects, the reanalysis was actualized transparently in all inflectional forms rendering an agglutinative pattern of inflection, whereas in dialects with limited agglutination the actualization took the form of a special type of vowel assimilation. More specifically, as part of the nominal stem, the ‘old’ theme vowel signals its merge with the root by allowing it to absorbsomeorallof its features. Formally, the phonological process is treated as an instance ofindirect licensing(Walker 2011), according to which the theme vowel acts as a trigger due to its privileged position as a segment of the categorizern, i.e. the head of the stem.
Ecomorphology of the digestive tract of the brazilian electric ray Narcine brasiliensis (Olfers, 1831) (Torpediniformes: Narcinidae)
Authors: Marinsek Gabriela Pustiglione , Viliod Marcela Coffacci de Lima , Mari Renata de Britto
Published: November 2016

Elasmobranchii shows particular characteristics that make them susceptible to the impacts caused by fishing pressure, especially bottom trawling, which mostly affect rays, as they have demersal habits. Based on food availability and feeding ability, Polychaeta and Sipunculiforme are the bases of Brazilian electric ray Narcine brasiliensis diet. Morphologically, the digestion starts in the oesophagus with acid mucines action. The existence of acid and neutral mucines in the posterior intestine prevents lesions in the mucosa and favours the passage of faeces and shell residues. Thus, this study shows the interaction between their habitat, the organisms and their morphophysiology.
Salivary DNA Methylation Profiling: Aspects to Consider for Biomarker Identification
Authors: Langie Sabine A. S. , Moisse Matthieu , Declerck Ken , Koppen Gudrun , Godderis Lode , Vanden Berghe Wim , Drury Stacy , De Boever Patrick
Published: November 2016

Is it not more comfortable to spit saliva in a tube than to be pricked with a needle to draw blood to analyse your health and disease risk? Many patients, study participants and (parents of) young children undoubtedly prefer non‐invasive and convenient procedures. Such procedures increase compliance rates especially for longitudinal prospective studies. Saliva is an attractive biofluid providing good quality DNA to study epigenetic mechanisms underlying disease across development. In this MiniReview, we will describe the different applications of saliva in the field of epigenetics, focusing on genomewide methylation analysis. Advantages of the use of saliva and its comparability with blood will be discussed, as will the challenges in data processing and interpretation. Knowledge gaps will be identified and suggestions given on how to improve the analysis, making saliva ‘the’ biofluid of choice for future biomarker initiatives in many different epidemiological and public health studies.
A matter of focus: Power‐holders feel more responsible after adopting a cognitive other‐focus, rather than a self‐focus
Authors: Scholl Annika , Sassenberg Kai , Scheepers Daan , Ellemers Naomi , de Wit Frank
Published: November 2016

Social power implies responsibility. Yet, power‐holders often follow only their own interests and overlook this responsibility. The present research illuminates how a previously adopted cognitive focus guides perceived responsibility when a person receives high (vs. low) power. In three experiments, adopting a cognitive focus on another person (vs. on the self or taking over another person's perspective) promoted perceived responsibility among individuals receiving high (but not low) power in a subsequent context. This effect was specific for perceived responsibility – a cognitive focus on another person did not change the perceived opportunity to pursue goals or the perceived relationship to an interaction partner (e.g., interpersonal closeness). While prior research examined how social values (i.e., chronically caring about others) guide responsibility among those holding power, the current findings highlight that mere cognitive processes (i.e., situationally focusing attention on others) alter perceived responsibility among those just about to receive power.
Multiple Levels of Family Factors and Oppositional Defiant Disorder Symptoms Among Chinese Children
Authors: Lin Xiuyun , Li Longfeng , Heath Melissa A. , Chi Peilian , Xu Shousen , Fang Xiaoyi
Published: November 2016

Family factors are closely associated with child developmental outcomes. This study examined the relationship of oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) symptoms and factors at whole family, dyadic, and individual levels in Chinese children. Participants, who were recruited from 14 primary schools in north, east, and south‐west China, included 80 father‐child dyads and 169 mother‐child dyads. Children in the participating dyads were previously diagnosed with ODD. Results revealed that family cohesion/adaptability was indirectly associated with ODD symptoms via parent–child relationship and child emotion regulation. Parent–child relationship affected ODD symptoms directly and indirectly through child emotion regulation. In addition, the effects of family cohesion/adaptability on parent emotion regulation and child emotion regulation were mediated by the parent–child relationship. The tested model provides a comprehensive framework of how family factors at multiple levels are related to child ODD symptoms and highlights the importance of understanding child emotional and behavioral problems within the family context, more specifically within the multiple levels of family relationships.
Lost in translation: applying 2D intercellular communication via tunneling nanotubes in cell culture to physiologically relevant 3D microenvironments
Authors: Lou Emil , O'Hare Patrick , Subramanian Subbaya , Steer Clifford J.
Published: November 2016

Tunneling nanotubes (TNTs) are membranous conduits for direct cell‐to‐cell communication. Until the past decade, little had been known about their composite structure, function, and mechanisms of action in both normal physiologic conditions as well as in disease states. Now TNTs are attracting increasing interest for their key role(s) in the pathogenesis of disease, including neurodegenerative disorders, inflammatory and infectious diseases, and cancer. The field of TNT biology is still in its infancy, but inroads have been made in determining potential mechanisms and function of these remarkable structures. For example, TNTs function as critical conduits for cellular exchange of information; thus, in cancer, they may play an important role in critical pathophysiologic features of the disease, including cellular invasion, metastasis, and emergence of chemotherapy drug resistance. Although the TNT field is still in a nascent stage, we propose that TNTs can be investigated as novel targets for drug‐based treatment of cancer and other diseases.
Concentrations of 90Sr and 137Cs/90Sr activity ratios in marine fishes after the Fukushima Dai‐ichi Nuclear Power Plant accident
Authors: Miki Shizuho , Fujimoto Ken , Shigenobu Yuya , Ambe Daisuke , Kaeriyama Hideki , Takagi Kaori , Ono Tsuneo , Watanabe Tomowo , Sugisaki Hiroya , Morita Takami
Published: November 2016

Strontium‐90 (90Sr) was released together with radioactive cesium (Cs) from the Fukushima Dai‐ichi Nuclear Power Plant (FNPP) accident. Although the total amount of 90Sr released into the marine environment from the FNPP was estimated to be a factor of 100 lower than that of 137Cs, the public have been concerned about the safety of commercial species because of the tendency of accumulation in bones of organisms, its long physical half‐life and less information about 90Sr concentrations in commercial species. In this study, we investigated the concentrations of 90Sr in marine fishes off Japan before and after the FNPP accident. Except for within a 20‐km radius from the FNPP, 90Sr concentrations higher than the background level (<0.046 Bq kg−1 wet) were only detected in 4 of 26 specimens collected off Fukushima. Furthermore, 90Sr concentrations in all samples collected outside of Fukushima were under the detection limit (<0.040 Bq kg−1 wet). Also, the concentrations of 90Sr in marine fishes were notably lower than those of 137Cs, and thus the activity ratios of 137Cs to 90Sr in the whole body of teleost fishes were 5–190 times higher than that of before the accident. The activity ratio tended to decrease owing to a decrease in the 137Cs concentration in marine fish. Our result together with ananalysis of other data sets indicated that the influence of the FNPP accident on 90Sr in marine fishes was limited to the area near the FNPP and outside of the FNPP harbor area can be considered as negligible.
Weighting and Aggregation in Life Cycle Assessment: Do Present Aggregated Single Scores Provide Correct Decision Support?
Authors: Kalbar Pradip P. , Birkved Morten , Nygaard Simon Elsborg , Hauschild Michael
Published: November 2016

This study investigates the prevailing practice of obtaining single scores in life cycle assessment (LCA) and identifies potential lacunas in impact assessment methodology related to the results of aggregation into endpoints and single scores. In order to conduct this investigation, a detailed approach was adopted to facilitate identification of three main problems related to the single‐score calculation approach. The prevailing ReCiPe single‐score calculation method does not account for either the effect of so‐called dominating alternatives (i.e., alternatives having high values across all endpoints) or the interdependency of the indicators being aggregated. It was also found that the simple linear weighted sum method, presently used for obtaining single scores, is not capable of accounting for the effect of weighting schemes and thus cannot realistically represent stakeholders’ perspectives. Finally, we propose a distance‐based multiple attribute decision‐making method for use in obtaining single scores. This method was found to be more suitable, given that it takes into account the weighting schemes and types of indicators in the process of estimating single scores. The new single‐score calculation method proposed here is considered ideal for environmental decision‐making problems in the context of life cycle sustainability assessment. Thus, it is also ideal for situations in which more‐complex decision‐making situations will emerge by combining LCA indicators (midpoints or endpoints) with other indicators representing the performance of a system from economic and social perspectives.
Determinants of Relative Sectoral Prices: The Role of Demographic Change
Authors: Groneck Max , Kaufmann Christoph
Published: November 2016

Demographic change raises demand for non‐tradable old‐age related services relative to tradable commodities. This demand shift increases the relative price of non‐tradables and thereby causes real exchange rates to appreciate. We claim that the change in demand affects prices via imperfect intersectoral factor mobility. Using a sample of 15 OECD countries, we estimate a robust increase of relative prices. According to our main estimate, up to one fifth of the average increase in relative prices between 1970 and 2009 can be attributed to population ageing. Further findings confirm the relevance of imperfect factor mobility: Countries with more rigid labour markets experience stronger price effects.
Ghrelin function in human obesity and type 2 diabetes: a concise review
Authors: Churm R , Davies JS , Stephens JW , Prior SL
Published: November 2016

The 28 amino acid hormone, ghrelin, has been found to have various effects on metabolism. This review will focus on the pathways integrated into ghrelin's effect within the hypothalamus, pancreas and adipocytes. The identification of molecules and pathways that regulate ghrelin‐mediated lipid retention could establish new mechanisms underlying cellular energy homeostasis. The impact of acyl‐ghrelin on glucose metabolism and lipid homeostasis may allow for novel preventative or early intervention therapeutic strategies to treat obesity related type 2 diabetes and associated metabolic dysfunction.
Community‐based participatory research: an innovative approach for improving perioperative care of underserved children
Authors: Rosales Alvina , Fortier Michelle A. , Campos Belinda , Vivero Marla , Martinez Ariana , Huerta Nancy , Zolghadr Sheeva , Adlard Kathleen , Kain Zeev N.
Published: November 2016

Pediatric disparities disproportionately affect Latino youth undergoing surgery and their families. As such, there is a critical need for culturally relevant frameworks that can advance perioperative intervention approaches in this population and reduce these disparities. In the following article, we first describe the methodological process of community‐based participatory research (CBPR) and next report the results of the CBPR process that was conducted in this population. An interdisciplinary group of investigators, Latina mothers, and various other stakeholders met for a series of CBPR‐based structured meetings. Qualitative data collection and analyses of the CBPR process were guided by principles of grounded theory that employs inductive techniques and constant comparison analyses until reaching saturation of data. Barriers identified in the process can be grouped within the following domains: child‐related factors, family‐related factors, health care provider factors, and hospital system factors. Family system factors category (coded references = 136) had the highest number of coded references; this category was found to be best described by the value of familismo or familism, including a duty to help family members when in need. The health care provider category (coded references = 42) was ranked second by frequency. Within this category, two major themes surfaced: health care provider cultural competence and overestimating health literacy. All barriers identified will be next incorporated in an innovative behavioral intervention that is currently being developed. We conclude that the model of CBPR can be used within the context of perioperative care of children and their families.
The predictive value of resistive index obtained by Doppler ultrasonography early after renal transplantation on long‐term allograft function
Authors: Melek Engin , Baskın Esra , Gulleroglu Kaan , Uslu Nihal , Kırnap Mahir , Moray Gokhan , Haberal Mehmet
Published: November 2016

DUSG is a useful diagnostic tool for the follow‐up of renal transplant recipients. The measurement of intrarenal arterial RI by DUSG has been proven to predict short‐term AF. The aim of the study was to evaluate the predictive value of DUSG performed during the early after RTx on long‐term AF. Seventy patients were enrolled into study. DUSG was performed at third and seventh days after RTx. Patients were divided into two groups according to rate of recovery of graft function as patients with normal graft function and abnormal graft function. Although the RI values were correlated with the AF early after transplantation, they were not correlated with long‐term AF. However, the rate of recovery of graft function at early period after RTx was correlated with creatinine level at first year and with glomerular filtration rate at first year and last visit. Although the RI has no predictive value for long‐term AF, the rate of recovery of graft function at early post‐transplantation period has predictive value for long‐term AF; patients with higher RI values early after RTx should be followed carefully for the development of chronic allograft injury.
Beyond listening: the distinct effects of proactive versus responsive customer orientation on the reduction of uncertainties at the fuzzy front end of innovation
Authors: Schweitzer Fiona , Palmié Maximilian , Gassmann Oliver
Published: November 2016

The extent to which the intensity of R&D employees' interaction with market‐oriented employees, proactive customer orientation, and responsive customer orientation affect the ability to reduce product‐related uncertainties at the fuzzy front end of innovation was analyzed. They investigated 160 product innovation projects in various high‐tech industries and identified proactive customer orientation as an important moderator of the link between R&D employees' interaction with market‐oriented employees and the reduction of product‐related uncertainties at the fuzzy front end. They also found that responsive customer orientation diminishes the ability to reduce product‐related uncertainties at the fuzzy front end. The theoretical and managerial implications of the results are discussed.
Angle β of greater than 80° at the start of spirometry may identify high‐quality flow volume curves
Authors: Lian Ningfang , Li Li , Ren Weiying , Jiang Zhilong , Zhu Lei
Published: November 2016

ABSTRACT

Background and objective

The American Thoracic Society (ATS) and European Respiratory Society (ERS) emphasize a satisfactory start in maximal expiratory flow–volume (MEFV) curves and highlight subjective parameters: performance without hesitation and expiration with maximum force. We described a new parameter, angle β for characterization of the start to the MEFV curve.

Methods

Subjects completed the MEFV curve at least three times and at least two curves met ATS/ERS quality. Subjects were divided into normal, restrictive and obstructive groups according to pulmonary function test results. The tangent line was drawn at the start of the MEFV curve's ascending limb to the x‐axis and the angle β between the tangent line and x‐axis was obtained. The relationships between tangent of β, pulmonary function parameters (PFPs) and anthropometric data were assessed. The MEFV curves with insufficient explosion at the start were considered as poor‐quality MEFV curves.

Results

In 998 subjects with high‐quality spirometry, although PFP varied in relation to the three aspects: the angle β and its tangent were similar (P > 0.05), the tangent of β did not correlate with PFP or anthropometric measurements (P > 0.05) and the lower limit of normal (LLN) of the angle β was 80° in the group with high‐quality spirometry (P < 0.05). Angle β derived from poor‐quality MEFV curves was smaller than that from good quality one (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Angle β may function as a parameter to assess the expiratory efforts, which can be used to assess the quality of the MEFV curve start.
State of the Art Review on Theoretical Tribology of Fluid Power Displacement Machines
Authors: Ćerimagić Remzija , Johansen Per , Andersen Torben O. , Pedersen Henrik C.
Published: November 2016

Over the past 20 years an increasing focus on efficiency and reliability in fluid power displacement machines has provided an incentive to study loss and wear mechanisms. One example is the hydrostatic fluid power transmission systems for wind and wave energy applications. The loss and wear mechanisms are mainly attributed to the tribological interfaces in fluid power machines. Consequently, optimization of efficiency and reliability of fluid power machines imply consideration of tribological interface design. The majority of the work done by researchers and engineers on the study of loss and wear mechanisms in the lubricating gaps in fluid power machines is confined to simulation models, as experimental treatments of these mechanisms are very difficult. This means, that a complete verification of the theoretical work is difficult. The aim of this paper is a state of the art review on the theoretical work for the design and optimization of fluid power displacement machines, and also the work done to validate the theoretical models. This review is not a complete historical account, but aim to describe current trends in fluid power displacement machine tribology. The review considers the rheological models used in the theoretical approaches, the modeling of elastohydrodynamic effects, the modeling of thermal effects, and finally the experimental validation of the theoretical models.
Improved cancer immunotherapy by a CD25-mimobody conferring selectivity to human interleukin-2
Authors: Arenas-Ramirez Natalia , Zou Chao , Popp Simone , Zingg Daniel , Brannetti Barbara , Wirth Emmanuelle , Calzascia Thomas , Kovarik Jiri , Sommer Lukas , Zenke Gerhard , Woytschak Janine , Regnier Catherine H. , Katopodis Andreas , Boyman Onur
Published: November 2016

An antibody to human IL-2 phenocopies CD25 and improves IL-2–based cancer immunotherapy.
Postreplication Roles of the
Brucella
VirB Type IV Secretion System Uncovered via Conditional Expression of the VirB11 ATPase
Authors: Smith Erin P. , Miller Cheryl N. , Child Robert , Cundiff Jennifer A. , Celli Jean
Published: November 2016

Brucella abortus
, the bacterial agent of the worldwide zoonosis brucellosis, primarily infects host phagocytes, where it undergoes an intracellular cycle within a dedicated membrane-bound vacuole, the
Brucella
-containing vacuole (BCV). Initially of endosomal origin (eBCV), BCVs are remodeled into replication-permissive organelles (rBCV) derived from the host endoplasmic reticulum, a process that requires modulation of host secretory functions via delivery of effector proteins by the
Brucella
VirB type IV secretion system (T4SS). Following replication, rBCVs are converted into autophagic vacuoles (aBCVs) that facilitate bacterial egress and subsequent infections, arguing that the bacterium sequentially manipulates multiple cellular pathways to complete its cycle. The VirB T4SS is essential for rBCV biogenesis, as VirB-deficient mutants are stalled in eBCVs and cannot mediate rBCV biogenesis. This has precluded analysis of whether the VirB apparatus also drives subsequent stages of the
Brucella
intracellular cycle. To address this issue, we have generated a
B. abortus
strain in which VirB T4SS function is conditionally controlled via anhydrotetracycline (ATc)-dependent complementation of a deletion of the
virB11
gene encoding the VirB11 ATPase. We show in murine bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMMs) that early VirB production is essential for optimal rBCV biogenesis and bacterial replication. Transient expression of
virB11
prior to infection was sufficient to mediate normal rBCV biogenesis and bacterial replication but led to T4SS inactivation and decreased aBCV formation and bacterial release, indicating that these postreplication stages are also T4SS dependent. Hence, our findings support the hypothesis of additional, postreplication roles of type IV secretion in the
Brucella
intracellular cycle.

IMPORTANCE
Many intracellular bacterial pathogens encode specialized secretion systems that deliver effector proteins into host cells to mediate the multiple stages of their intracellular cycles. Because these intracellular events occur sequentially, classical genetic approaches cannot address the late roles that these apparatuses play, as secretion-deficient mutants cannot proceed past their initial defect. Here we have designed a functionally controllable VirB type IV secretion system (T4SS) in the bacterial pathogen
Brucella abortus
to decipher its temporal requirements during the bacterium’s intracellular cycle in macrophages. By controlling production of the VirB11 ATPase, which energizes the T4SS, we show not only that this apparatus is required early to generate the
Brucella
replicative organelle but also that it contributes to completion of the bacterium’s cycle and bacterial egress. Our findings expand upon the pathogenic functions of the
Brucella
VirB T4SS and illustrate targeting of secretion ATPases as a useful strategy to manipulate the activity of bacterial secretion systems.
Early severe coronary artery disease and aortic coarctation in a child with familial hypercholesterolaemia
Authors: Labib Dina , Soliman Haytham , Said Kareem , Sorour Khaled
Published: November 2016

An 11-year-old boy presented with easy fatigability, multiple xanthomas, and absent pedal pulsations. Laboratory workup showed severe hypercholesterolaemia and non-invasive imaging revealed ‘normally functioning’ bicuspid aortic valve and tight aortic coarctation. Coronary angiography showed severe right coronary artery (RCA) stenosis. Medical treatment resulted in significant improvement of dyslipidaemia. We successfully performed balloon dilation and stenting of his coarctation, as well as percutaneous coronary intervention for RCA lesion.
Adrenal Cushing syndrome with detectable ACTH from an unexpected source
Authors: Lwin Thinzar M , Galal Nehal , Gera Shweta , Marti Jennifer L
Published: November 2016

Mixed corticomedullary adrenal tumours (MCMT) are rare. We describe the second reported case of a male patient presenting with hypertension and Cushing syndrome with MCMT. A man aged 48 years presented with hypertension and signs of Cushing syndrome. 24-hour urine cortisol was elevated, with detectable adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). A high-dose dexamethasone suppression test indicated an adrenal or ectopic Cushing syndrome. Plasma metanephrines were normal. A 3 cm left adrenal mass was identified without potential ectopic sources of ACTH on imaging. After induction of anaesthesia for laparoscopic adrenalectomy, the patient developed resistant hypertension with stress-dose hydrocortisone administration. Surgery was cancelled and repeat testing revealed elevated plasma metanephrines. α-Blockade was administered for a presumed coexisting pheochromocytoma, and the patient underwent adrenalectomy. Pathology revealed an MCMT. This case highlights the importance of a thorough biochemical evaluation in patients with adrenal masses to rule out multiple hormone producing tumours.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and the risk of stroke: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Morgan Ann D , Sharma Chetna , Rothnie Kieran J , Quint Jennifer K
Published: November 2016

Introduction

There is good evidence to suggest that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) increases the risk of ischaemic heart disease, in particular myocardial infarction (MI). The relationship between stroke and COPD, however, is not as well established, and studies conducted to date have generated conflicting results.

Methods and analysis

MEDLINE and Embase will be searched for relevant articles using a prespecified search strategy. We will target observational studies conducted in the general population that employ either a longitudinal cohort or case–control study design to estimate ORs, HRs or incident rate ratios for the association between COPD and a subsequent first stroke. Both stages of screening, title and abstract followed by full-text screening, will be conducted independently by two reviewers. The Population, Exposure, Comparator, Outcomes, Study characteristics (PECOS) framework will be used to systematise the process of extracting data from those studies meeting our selection criteria. Study quality will be assessed using an adapted version of the Newcastle-Ottawa risk of bias tool. The data extraction and the risk of bias assessment will also be conducted in duplicate. A meta-analysis will be considered if there is sufficient homogeneity across selected studies or groups of studies. If a meta-analysis is not justified, a narrative synthesis will be conducted. Selected Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria will be used to assess the quality of the cumulative evidence.

Dissemination

Currently ranking second and fourth in the list of global causes of mortality, respectively, stroke and COPD are important non-communicable diseases. With this review, we hope to clarify some of the current uncertainty that surrounds the COPD–stroke relationship and in turn improve understanding of the nature of the role of COPD in comorbid stroke.

Prospero registration number

CRD42016035932.