bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Audit committee – internal audit interaction and moral courage
Authors: Khelil Imen , Hussainey Khaled , Noubbigh Hedi
Published: May 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to offer empirical evidence about the effect of the interaction between the audit committee and the internal audit function (IAF) on the moral courage of the chief audit executive (CAE).

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed approach was followed. In the first stage, questionnaires were sent to CAEs of 60 listed, financial and non-financial Tunisian companies. To enhance the depth of the analysis, in the second stage, semi-directed interviews with 22 CAEs from listed financial and non-financial Tunisian companies were performed.

Findings

This paper found that the existence of private access to the audit committee has a positive effect on the moral courage of the CAE. The number of meetings between the audit committee and the CAE, the examination of internal audit programmes and results together with the contribution of the audit committee to the appointment and dismissal of the CAE do not show a significant link with the moral courage of the CAE. It also found an insignificant relationship between the audit committee’s examination of interaction between management and the IAF and the moral courage of the CAE.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, this paper fills one of the major research gaps in the auditing literature by demonstrating the critical role of audit committee–internal audit interaction in promoting the CAE’s moral courage to behave ethically.
Measuring annual report narratives disclosure
Authors: Abed Suzan , Al-Najjar Basil , Roberts Clare
Published: May 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate empirically the common alternative methods of measuring annual report narratives. Five alternative methods are employed, a weighted and un-weighted disclosure index and three textual coding systems, measuring the amount of space devoted to relevant disclosures.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors investigate the forward-looking voluntary disclosures of 30 UK non-financial companies. They employ descriptive analysis, correlation matrix, mean comparison t-test, rankings and multiple regression analysis of disclosure measures against determinants of corporate voluntary reporting.

Findings

The results reveal that while the alternative methods of forward-looking voluntary disclosure are highly correlated, important significant differences do nevertheless emerge. In particular, it appears important to measure volume rather than simply the existence or non-existence of each type of disclosure. Overall, we detect that the optimal method is content analysis by text-unit rather than by sentence.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the extant literature in forward-looking disclosure by reporting important differences among alternative content analyses. However, the decision regarding whether this should be a computerised or a manual content analysis appears not to be driven by differences in the resulting measures. Rather, the choice is the outcome of a trade-off between the time involved in setting up coding rules for computerised analysis versus the time saved undertaking the analysis itself.
Corporate innovation and innovation efficiency: does religion matter?
Authors: Huang Dan , Lu Dong , Luo Jin-hui
Published: May 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine whether and how the extent of religion in a firm’s social environment affects corporate innovation and innovation efficiency from the perspectives of religion-related risk aversion and religion-based social norms.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a sample of 8,601 Chinese firm-year observations from 2007 to 2012, this paper examines the relationship between religion and innovation intensity, as well as innovation efficiency. A battery of checks, that is, adopting Heckman selection model, using a province-level measure of religiosity and an alternative measure of innovation intensity, and taking the stochastic frontier analysis method to capture corporate innovation efficiency, are conducted to alleviate the concern of self-selection and to guarantee the robustness of the findings of this paper.

Findings

This paper finds strong evidence that firms registered in more religious regions, that is, regions with more Buddhist monasteries within a certain radius, undertake fewer innovation activities as measured by the ratio of R&D investment over total sales income but achieve higher innovation efficiency reflected by the value-relevance of R&D investment.

Originality/value

This paper complements the existing literature by suggesting that religion can serve as an informal social mechanism and performs a “less is more” effect in disciplining corporate innovation activities.
Social enterprise sustainability revisited: an international perspective
Authors: Jenner Peter
Published: May 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine social enterprise sustainability by comparing recent international research with prior findings seeking to identify the important factors that facilitate social enterprise development.

Design/methodology/approach

The research used a concurrent, convergent mixed methods approach on a sample of 93 social enterprise leaders using surveys and face-to-face interviews. The participants were sourced from a cross-section of social enterprise organisational types from urban and regional locations in Australia and Scotland.

Findings

The findings support prior research, identifying resourcing, organisational capabilities, collaborative networks and legitimacy as influential in the success of social enterprises. However, the research contributes new knowledge by revealing an overarching growth orientation as the dominant factor in the strategic management for sustainability of these ventures. This growth orientation is generally associated with the intent to achieve profitability. Thus, social enterprise managers view a commercially focused growth orientation as an overarching strategic factor that underpins organisational sustainability.

Originality/value

The paper delivers new insights into the strategic orientation of social ventures of benefit to policy makers and practitioners alike. The findings are significant for policy makers providing perspectives into how governmental assistance can be targeted to develop sustainable social enterprises, particularly the need to support the growth of these ventures. Similarly, practitioners are alerted to the strategic imperatives of incorporating a commercially focused growth orientation and the latent potential that exists in the networks of social enterprise.
Care homes lay assessor project – using volunteers to improve the quality of life of older people living in care homes
Authors: Dolbear Kenneth Walter
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to outline the learning from an innovative approach to using volunteers as lay assessors in order to secure improvements in the quality of life of older people in care homes.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper describes the implementation of pilot lay assessor scheme in Bristol and systematically explores the learning from this case study.

Findings

– The paper concludes that despite a number of important challenges and limitations, a lay assessor approach, particularly when conducted in close co-operation with a local council, can indeed provide demonstrable quality of life benefits for older people in closed institutions such as care homes.

Practical implications

– The case study highlights a number of key implications for practice including: it is possible to recruit, motivate and train volunteers to provide a lay assessor scheme; working with a local council and providers of care homes can produce real improvements in quality of life; lay assessor schemes are an important way of “shining a light” into closed institutions; defining quality of life and balancing this with institutional attitudes towards risk can be extremely challenging; and working with care home managers, providing them with ideas and support can be effective in bringing about meaningful change.

Originality/value

– This case study reports on one of the first volunteer lay assessor initiatives in the country. There has been very little if any reporting or analysis of such schemes. This paper therefore adds significantly to this important are of public policy and provision.
Public health and prevention: acting to make longer lives healthier
Authors: Alessi Charles , Rashbrook Elaine
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to outline the action that can be taken to ensure longer and healthier lives.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper draws on the relevant recommendations set out by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence to delay or prevent the onset of ill health in later years, followed by a number of recommended approaches to promote healthy behaviours in older adults as well as those in midlife.

Findings

– There is a clear need for public health and the prevention agenda to help ensure that later years are not just longer, but healthier.

Practical implications

– The paper identifies how, when and where the health risks associated with the majority of years lost to ill health can be addressed, and advocates the importance of taking an asset-based approach to promoting good health in older people.

Originality/value

– The paper is a comprehensive review of the key public health actions that can be taken to ensure longer and healthier lives.
Dementia and financial incapacity: a caregiver study
Authors: DaDalt Olivia , Burstein Arielle , Kramer Birgit , D'Ambrosio Lisa A. , Coughlin Joseph F.
Published: May 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to identify strategies that caregivers of people with dementia use for financial and estate planning and what advice they would give to others in their position.

Design/methodology/approach

– Data were gathered via in-depth in-person interviews with 34 caregivers of individuals with dementia. Participants were asked questions about: how they financed care; the resources and people they used to help manage care and finances; and advice they would give to other caregivers.

Findings

– Caregivers wished that they had done more in-depth planning regarding dementia care and financial arrangements. Participants also wished they had saved more money for care expenses or a “nest-egg.” Participants had mixed feelings about the usefulness and trustworthiness of financial advisors, but those who had elder care lawyers recommended them highly.

Research limitations/implications

– It would be beneficial to reproduce this study with a larger, gender-balanced sample with a wider variety of socio-economic backgrounds.

Social implications

– The advice and insight provided in this paper are useful both to dementia caregivers, who can learn from the experiences of those interviewed, and to industry professionals such as financial advisors and elder care lawyers, who may recognize from these interviews the areas in which caregivers need assistance and the services they can provide to help them navigate this disease.

Originality/value

– This paper provides insights from actual caregivers about their experiences dealing with the financial aspect of dementia, an aspect of the disease that is not widely discussed.
Compatible and incompatible pathogen–plant interactions differentially affect plant volatile emissions and the attraction of parasitoid wasps
Authors: Ponzio Camille , Weldegergis Berhane T. , Dicke Marcel , Gols Rieta
Published: May 2016

The effects of multiple insect attacks on herbivore‐induced plant volatiles and carnivorous arthropods are increasingly studied. Phytopathogens also represent an important threat to plants, and plant defence strategies against pathogens and insects are strongly interconnected, yet the potential impact of pathogens on insect‐induced volatiles has been largely overlooked, and degree of pathogenicity is rarely considered.

We investigated how pathogen challenge, with virulent and avirulent strains of Xanthomonas campestris either alone or with simultaneous Pieris brassicae caterpillar herbivory, affected the volatile emissions of Brassica nigra plants. The impact of these volatiles on the foraging behaviour of Cotesia glomerata parasitoids wasps was then assessed.

Pathogens themselves induced volatiles that were highly attractive to parasitoids, and enhanced the attractiveness of host‐infested plant volatiles. Chemical analyses revealed that virulent and avirulent strains differentially induced plant volatiles, with primarily sesquiterpene, homoterpene and green leaf volatile compounds contributing to the differences. Strong similarities were found in the blends induced by the virulent strain and caterpillar herbivory.

Challenge by either virulent or avirulent pathogens has a significant impact on plant chemistry and its interactions with other community members, demonstrating the importance of integrating pathogen‐ and insect‐based research to broaden our knowledge of plant defences under conditions of increasing complexity.

A lay summary is available for this article.
Effects of aligned fractures on the response of velocity and attenuation ratios to water saturation variation: a laboratory study using synthetic sandstones
Authors: Amalokwu Kelvin , Best Angus I. , Chapman Mark
Published: May 2016

P‐wave‐to‐S‐wave ratios are important seismic characterization attributes. Velocity ratios are sensitive to the petrophysical properties of rocks and to the presence of gas. Attenuation ratios have also been shown to be sensitive to the presence of partial liquid/gas saturation. The relationship between liquid/gas saturation and P‐wave and S‐wave ratios has been used to distinguish gas‐saturated rocks from liquid‐saturated rocks. Aligned fractures are common in the Earth's crust and cause seismic anisotropy and shear wave splitting. However, most existing relationships between partial gas/liquid saturation and P‐wave and S‐wave ratios are for non‐fractured rocks. We present experimental results comparing the effects of changing water saturation on Qs/Qp versus Vp/Vs ratios between a non‐fractured rock and one containing fractures aligned parallel to wave propagation direction. We also study the effects of aligned fractures on the response of Vp/Vs to changing water saturation using synthetic fractured sandstones with fractures aligned at 45o and parallel to the wave propagation direction. The results suggest that aligned fractures could have significant effects on the observed trends, some of which may not be obvious. Fractures aligned parallel to wave propagation could change the response of Qs/Qp versus Vp/Vs ratios to water saturation from previously reported trends. Shear wave splitting due to the presence of aligned fractures results in two velocity ratios (Vp/Vs1 and Vp/Vs2). The fluid independence of shear wave splitting for fractures aligned parallel to wave propagation direction means the difference between Vp/Vs1 and Vp/Vs2 is independent of water saturation. For fractures aligned at oblique angles, shear wave splitting can be sensitive to water saturation and consequently be frequency dependent, which can lead to fluid and frequency‐dependent differences between Vp/Vs1 and Vp/Vs2. The effect of aligned fractures on Vp/Vs ratios not only depends on the fracture effects on both P‐wave and S‐wave velocities but also on the effects of water saturation distribution on the rock and fracture stiffness, and hence on the P‐wave and S‐wave velocities. As such, these effects can be frequency dependent due to wave‐induced fluid flow. A simple modelling study combining a frequency‐dependent fractured rock model, and a frequency‐dependent partial saturation model was used to gain valuable interpretations of our experimental observations and possible implications, which would be useful for field seismic data interpretation.
Alterations of voltage‐dependent K+ channels in the mesenteric artery during the early and chronic phases of diabetes
Authors: Hong Da Hye , Li Hongliang , Kim Hye Won , Kim Han Sol , Son Youn Kyoung , Yang Se‐Ran , Park Jeong‐Ran , Ha Kwon‐Soo , Han Eun‐Taek , Hong Seok‐Ho , Firth Amy L. , Na Sung Hun , Park Won Sun
Published: May 2016

This study investigated the alteration of voltage‐dependent K+ (Kv) channels in mesenteric arterial smooth muscle cells from control (Long‐Evans Tokushima Otsuka [LETO]) and diabetic (Otsuka Long‐Evans Tokushima Fatty [OLETF]) rats during the early and chronic phases of diabetes. We demonstrated alterations in the mesenteric Kv channels during the early and chronic phase of diabetes using the patch‐clamp technique, the arterial tone measurement system, and RT‐PCR in Long‐Evans Tokushima (LETO; for control) and Otsuka Long‐Evans Tokushima Fatty (OLETF; for diabetes) type 2 diabetic model rats. In the early phase of diabetes, the amplitude of mesenteric Kv currents induced by depolarizing pulses was greater in OLETF rats than in LETO rats. The contractile response of the mesenteric artery induced by the Kv inhibitor, 4‐aminopyridine (4‐AP), was also greater in OLETF rats. The expression of most Kv subtypes‐ including Kv1.1, Kv1.2, Kv1.4, Kv1.5, Kv1.6, Kv2.1, Kv3.2, Kv4.1, Kv4.3, Kv5.1, Kv6.2, Kv8.1, Kv9.3, and Kv10.1‐were increased in mesenteric arterial smooth muscle from OLETF rats compared with LETO rats. However, in the chronic phase of diabetes, the Kv current amplitude did not differ between LETO and OLETF rats. In addition, the 4‐AP‐induced contractile response of the mesenteric artery and the expression of Kv subtypes did not differ between the two groups. The increased Kv current amplitude and Kv channel‐related contractile response were attributable to the increase in Kv channel expression during the early phase of diabetes. The increased Kv current amplitude and Kv channel‐related contractile response were reversed during the chronic phase of diabetes.
Assessing Market Integration in ASEAN with Retail Price Data
Authors: Dang Vinh Q. T. , Yang Yu (Alan)
Published: May 2016

We assess the extent of market integration the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) using a comprehensive data set that contains actual local retail prices for 131 goods and services in ASEAN countries (except Laos and Myanmar) over the period of 1990–2013. We conduct two different, but complementary, approaches: analyzing price dispersion and testing for convergence to the law of one price via panel unit root tests. The 1997 Asian crisis and, to a lesser extent, the 2008 global crisis appear to have caused a considerable disruption in the process of market integration. Despite significant tariff reduction under the ASEAN Free Trade Area commitments in the past two decades, the level of price dispersion across ASEAN is higher in 2013 than in 1990. Panel unit root tests accounting for cross‐section dependence show that convergence to the law of one price holds for only a minority of retail prices, including those of traded goods, in the ASEAN markets. We also consider a nonlinear exponential smooth transition autoregressive approach and a structural break as alternative adjustment dynamics in the panel unit root tests. Overall, our results suggest that there is much to be done in ASEAN to achieve a meaningful ASEAN economic community.
‘While we can, we will’: Exploring food choice and dietary behaviour amongst independent older Australians
Authors: Host Alison , Mcmahon Anne‐Therese , Walton Karen , Charlton Karen
Published: May 2016

Aim

Burgeoning proportions of populations aged over 65 years impose an increased financial burden upon governments for the provision of associated health and aged‐care services. Strategies are therefore required to mitigate service demand through the preservation of good health and independence into old age. Nutrition has been acknowledged as a key factor for realisation of this goal. The objective of the present study was to investigate factors responsible for shaping food shopping, cooking and eating behaviours amongst healthy, independently living Australians aged 60 years and over.

Methods

Eighteen (5 male, 13 female) independently living residents sourced from three low‐care Illawarra Retirement Trust (IRT) lifestyle residential facilities volunteered to take part in the present study. All participants were aged 60 years or more and in relatively good health. Semi‐structured focus groups were implemented to explore factors influencing the selection, acquisition and preparation of food. Each session was digitally recorded, transcribed verbatim and subsequently examined using content and thematic analysis.

Results

Ten sub‐themes were identified and grouped into three broader themes: adaptation, psychosocial parameters and food landscape. Findings reflect an active self‐determination to retain independence, with a focus on the maintenance of favourable nutritional status. A sense of resourcefulness was evident through the development of strategies to overcome potential barriers to healthy eating.

Conclusions

Factors that influence the food choices of community‐living older Australians are complex and multifactorial, and underpinned by a strong desire for independence and control over personal health outcomes. Studies involving larger, more demographically diverse participant groups are required to elicit socially acceptable strategies that will empower older Australians to sustain their health and independence for the longer term.
Role of intrahepatic B cells in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease by secreting pro‐inflammatory cytokines and regulating intrahepatic T cells
Authors: Zhang Feng , Jiang Wei Wei , Li Xia , Qiu Xin Yun , Wu Zhe , Chi Yu Jing , Cong Xu , Liu Yu Lan
Published: May 2016

Objective

To investigate the alterations and functions of intrahepatic B (IHB) cells in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) model induced by high‐fat diet (HFD).

Methods

C57BL/6 J mice were fed with HFD for 16 weeks to induce NAFLD. Flow cytometry was used to analyze lymphocytes from liver, spleen and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Real‐time polymerase chain reaction and immunofluorescence stain were applied to investigate cytokine expression in the intrahepatic lymphocytes and IHB cells. CD4+ intrahepatic T (IHT) cells and IHB cells were enriched by a magnetic‐activated cell sorting method and cultured in vitro. The cytokines and immunoglobulin (Ig) levels in the plasma, cultural supernatants and liver homogenates were monitored with cytometric bead arrays or multiplex immunoassays.

Results

The percentage of IHB cells in CD45+ cells was significantly higher in the NAFLD group than in the control group (P < 0.05). IHB cells expressed higher levels of interleukin (IL)‐6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α in the NAFLD group, and produced higher levels of IL‐6 and TNF‐α under the stimulation of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) than the control group. IgG2a levels were higher in the plasma, liver homogenates and the culture supernatants of IHB cells after stimulated by LPS and anti‐CD40/IgM in the NAFLD group than in the control group. Moreover, IHB cells enhanced the activation of CD4+ IHT cells and promoted the differentiation into T helper (Th) 1 cells in the NAFLD group.

Conclusion

IHB cells might be involved in NAFLD both by inducing the secretion of IL‐6, TNF‐α and IgG2a and by enhancing the activation of CD4+ IHT cells and their differentiation into Th1 cells.
Cumulative and booster effects of tdcs sessions on drug cravings, lapse, and cognitive impairment in methamphetamine use disorder: A case study report
Authors: Shariatirad Schwann , Vaziri Alaleh , Hassani‐Abharian Peyman , Sharifi Fardshad Mona , Molavi Nader , Fitzgerald Paul B
Published: May 2016

Background and Objectives

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a non‐invasive brain stimulation method, which shows promising therapeutic effects in controlling drug cravings.

Methods

In this study, we present cumulative and booster effects of tDCS sessions on methamphetamine cravings, lapse, and cognitive impairment in a methamphetamine dependent subject.

Results

Our study shows cumulative effects of continuous anodal tDCS sessions on right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) could reduce drug cravings and their consequences.

Discussion and Conclusions

Moreover, booster tDCS treatments might be helpful in controlling psychological stress and drug cravings. (Am J Addict 2016;25:264–266)
Islamic corporate financing: does it promote profit and loss sharing?
Authors: Minhat Marizah , Dzolkarnaini Nazam
Published: May 2016

Islamic financing instruments can be categorised into profit and loss/risk sharing and non‐participatory instruments. Although profit and loss sharing instruments such as musharakah are widely accepted as the ideal form of Islamic financing, prior studies suggest that alternative instruments such as murabahah are preferred by Islamic banks. Nevertheless, prior studies did not explore factors that influence the use of Islamic financing among non‐financial firms. Our study fills this gap and contributes new knowledge in several ways. First, we find no evidence of widespread use of Islamic financing instruments across non‐financial firms. This is because the instruments are mostly used by less profitable firms with higher leverage (i.e. risky firms). Second, we find that profit and loss sharing instruments are hardly used, whilst the use of murabahah is dominant. Consistent with the prediction of moral‐hazard‐risk avoidance theory, further analysis suggests that users with a lower asset base (to serve as collateral) are associated with murabahah financing. Third, we present a critical discourse on the contentious nature of murabahah as practised. The economic significance and ethical issues associated with murabahah as practised should trigger serious efforts to steer Islamic corporate financing towards risk‐sharing more than the controversial rent‐seeking practice.
Intermediate Moral Respect and Proportionality Reasoning
Authors: Finegan Thomas
Published: May 2016

In a recent article in this journal Jonathan Pugh critiques the idea of intermediate ‘moral respect’ which some say is owed to embryos. This concept is inherent within the ‘principle of proportionality’, the principle that destructive research on embryos is permissable only if the research serves an important purpose. Pugh poses two specific questions to proponents of the idea of intermediate moral respect. This article argues that while the questions posed by Pugh are certainly pertinent to the debate, the hypothetical responses he suggests to these questions do not quite get to the core of what is troublesome about the concept. The article suggests alternative responses to Pugh's questions in order to focus attention on more fundamental problems facing the idea of intermediate moral respect, while also pointing to how the intermediate moral respect proponent might best develop these responses. It goes on to argue that these hypothetical responses fail to answer convincingly the questions posed. More specifically, this article challenges two possible justifications for the distinct idea of intermediate moral respect, namely the argument from potentiality (the argument raised by Pugh) and an argument from the proportionality of fundamental moral status (not considered by Pugh). The article also raises a dilemma inherent in the application of the principle of proportionality to cases involving beings to which intermediate moral respect is owed even where it is allowed, ex hypothesi, that both the category of intermediate moral respect and the general proportionality reasoning underpinning the principle of proportionality are basically cogent. This article thus develops and adds to the challenge laid down by Pugh to proponents of the idea of intermediate moral respect.
Demography and sustainable management of two fiber‐producing Astrocaryum palms in Colombia
Authors: García Néstor , Zuidema Pieter A. , Galeano Gloria , Bernal Rodrigo
Published: May 2016

The spear leaves of the palms Astrocaryum chambira and A. standleyanum have been traditionally used by Colombian indigenous communities as a source of fiber for handicraft production. Traditional management practices, including destructive harvest, have reduced population sizes of both species. We monitored a population of A. chambira in the Amazon, and one of A. standleyanum at the Pacific lowlands of Colombia. We then constructed integral projection models (IPM) to evaluate the transient population dynamics of populations under different exploitation regimes. Our results show that during the next 50 years the population of A. standleyanum will grow at an annual rate of 2.0 percent, and that of A. chambira at a rate of 0.8 percent. However, projected population growth is highly sensitive to harvest in both species: a destructive harvest of 5 percent of all usable individuals (subadults and adults) would cease population growth, while a 10 percent harvest intensity would cause populations to decrease by 0.5–0.6 percent annually. Our simulations further indicate that management practices associated with indigenous slash‐and‐burn agriculture would reduce fiber production, whereas caring for seedlings would increase population growth and fiber production in the coming decades. In order to sustain viable populations of both species and maintain a steady fiber supply, it is vital to prevent destructive harvest practices, and to leave some forest areas untouched, where populations can regenerate and act as a source of seedlings for intervened areas.
Does ACTH improve the diagnostic performance of adrenal vein sampling for subtyping primary aldosteronism?
Authors: Wolley Martin J. , Ahmed Ashraf H. , Gordon Richard D. , Stowasser Michael
Published: May 2016

Objective

Adrenal vein sampling (AVS) is used for determining treatment options for primary aldosteronism (PA), but is a difficult procedure. Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) infusion or bolus has been reported to improve AVS success rates by increasing cortisol secretion, but effects on lateralization are controversial. We therefore assessed the effects of ACTH in regard to AVS success and lateralization in our unit, after a change in protocol to ACTH‐stimulated AVS.

Setting

AVS was performed after overnight recumbency in patients with PA confirmed by fludrocortisone suppression testing. Bilateral sequential sampling was performed before and after an intravenous bolus of 250 mcg of ACTH. Lateralization was defined as an aldosterone/cortisol ratio in one adrenal vein at least twice peripheral, combined with a contralateral adrenal ratio no higher than peripheral (contralateral suppression).

Results

In 47 AVS procedures, the median adrenal/peripheral cortisol gradient increased on the left (11·6 vs 18·2 μg/100 ml, P < 0·001) and right (15·6 vs 31·5 μg/100 ml, P < 0·001) after ACTH. A total of 34 of 47 studies were diagnostic pre‐ACTH (six failing because of low aldosterone levels bilaterally and seven failing to cannulate one or both sides) vs 44 of 47 (P = 0·011) studies diagnostic post‐ACTH (failure to cannulate one or both sides in 3). Concordance between diagnostic studies pre‐ and post‐ACTH was 91%, but two bilateral cases became unilateral after ACTH and one unilateral case before ACTH was bilateral afterwards.

Conclusions

ACTH improved cortisol gradients and aldosterone secretion, resulting in a reduction in the proportion of nondiagnostic studies. There was a low proportion of discordance between pre‐ and post‐ACTH diagnoses, the significance of which is unclear.
Systematic review of cost‐of‐illness studies in hand eczema
Authors: Politiek Klaziena , Oosterhaven Jart A. F. , Vermeulen Karin M. , Schuttelaar Marie‐Louise A.
Published: May 2016

The individual burden of disease in hand eczema patients is considerable. However, little is known about the socio‐economic impact of this disease. The aims of this review were to evaluate the literature on cost‐of‐illness in hand eczema, and to compose a checklist for future use. The literature was retrieved from the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases up to October 2015. Quality evaluation was based on seven relevant items in cost‐of‐illness studies. Cost data (direct and indirect) were extracted and converted into euros (2014 price level) by use of the Dutch Consumer Price Index. Six articles were included. The mean annual total cost per patient ranged from €1712 to €9792 (direct cost per patient, €521 to €3829; and indirect cost per patient, €100 to €6846). Occupational hand eczema patients showed indirect costs up to 70% of total costs, mainly because of absenteeism. A large diversity in hand eczema severity was found between studies. The socio‐economic burden of hand eczema is considerable, especially for more severe and/or occupational hand eczema. Absenteeism from paid work leads to a high total cost‐of‐illness, although disregard of presenteeism often leads to underestimation of indirect costs. Differences in included cost components, the occupational status of patients and hand eczema severity make international comparison difficult. A checklist was added to standardize the approach to cost‐of‐illness studies in hand eczema.
Adaptation to climate change: trade‐offs among responses to multiple stressors in an intertidal crustacean
Authors: Kelly Morgan W. , DeBiasse Melissa B. , Villela Vidal A. , Roberts Hope L. , Cecola Colleen F.
Published: May 2016

Trade‐offs may influence both physiological and evolutionary responses to co‐occurring stressors, but their effects on both plastic and adaptive responses to climate change are poorly understood. To test for genetic and physiological trade‐offs incurred in tolerating multiple stressors, we hybridized two populations of the intertidal copepod Tigriopus californicus that were divergent for both heat and salinity tolerance. Starting in the F2 generation, we selected for increased tolerance of heat, low salinity, and high salinity in replicate lines. After five generations of selection, heat‐selected lines had greater heat tolerance but lower fecundity, indicating an energetic cost to tolerance. Lines selected for increased salinity tolerance did not show evidence of adaptation to their respective environments; however, hypo‐osmotic selection lines showed substantial loss of tolerance to hyperosmotic stress. Neither of the salinity selection regimes resulted in diminished heat tolerance at ambient salinity; however, simultaneous exposure to heat and hypo‐osmotic stress led to decreased heat tolerance, implying a physiological trade‐off in tolerance to the two stressors. When we quantified the transcriptomic response to heat and salinity stress via RNA sequencing, we observed little overlap in the stress responses, suggesting the observed synergistic effects of heat and salinity stress were driven by competing energetic demands, rather than shared stress response pathways.
Has Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) co‐evolved with Dothistroma septosporum in Scotland? Evidence for spatial heterogeneity in the susceptibility of native provenances
Authors: Perry Annika , Brown Anna V. , Cavers Stephen , Cottrell Joan E. , Ennos Richard A.
Published: May 2016

Spatial heterogeneity in pathogen pressure leads to genetic variation in, and evolution of, disease‐related traits among host populations. In contrast, hosts are expected to be highly susceptible to exotic pathogens as there has been no evolution of defence responses. Host response to pathogens can therefore be an indicator of a novel or endemic pathosystem. Currently, the most significant threat to native British Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) forests is Dothistroma needle blight (DNB) caused by the foliar pathogen Dothistroma septosporum which is presumed to be exotic. A progeny–provenance trial of 6‐year‐old Scots pine, comprising eight native provenances each with four families in six blocks, was translocated in April 2013 to a clear‐fell site in Galloway adjacent to a DNB‐infected forest. Susceptibility to D. septosporum, measured as DNB severity (estimated percentage nongreen current‐year needles), was assessed visually over 2 years (2013–2014 and 2014–2015; two assessments per year). There were highly significant differences in susceptibility among provenances but not among families for each annual assessment. Provenance mean susceptibility to D. septosporum was negatively and significantly associated with water‐related variables at site of origin, potentially due to the evolution of low susceptibility in the host in response to high historical pathogen pressure.
Cullin 3 targets methionine adenosyltransferase IIα for ubiquitylation‐mediated degradation and regulates colorectal cancer cell proliferation
Authors: Wang Jian , Zhu Zi‐Hua , Yang Hong‐Bin , Zhang Ye , Zhao Xiang‐Ning , Zhang Min , Liu Ying‐Bin , Xu Ying‐Ying , Lei Qun‐Ying
Published: May 2016

Cullin 3 (CUL3) serves as a scaffold protein and assembles a large number of ubiquitin ligase complexes. It is involved in multiple cellular processes and plays a potential role in tumor development and progression. In this study, we demonstrate that CUL3 targets methionine adenosyltransferase IIα (MAT IIα) and promotes its proteasomal degradation through the ubiquitylation‐mediated pathway. MAT IIα is a key enzyme in methionine metabolism and is associated with uncontrolled cell proliferation in cancer. We presently found that CUL3 down‐regulation could rescue folate deprivation‐induced MAT IIα exhaustion and growth arrest in colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. Further results from human CRC samples display an inverse correlation between CUL3 and MAT IIα protein levels. Our observations reveal a novel role of CUL3 in regulating cell proliferation by controlling the stability of MAT IIα.
Comparison of human glutamate carboxypeptidases II and III reveals their divergent substrate specificities
Authors: Navrátil Michal , Tykvart Jan , Schimer Jiří , Pachl Petr , Navrátil Václav , Rokob Tibor András , Hlouchová Klára , Rulíšek Lubomír , Konvalinka Jan
Published: May 2016

Glutamate carboxypeptidase III (GCPIII) is best known as a homologue of glutamate carboxypeptidase II [GCPII; also known as prostate‐specific membrane antigen (PSMA)], a protease involved in neurological disorders and overexpressed in a number of solid cancers. However, mouse GCPIII was recently shown to cleave β‐citrylglutamate (BCG), suggesting that these two closely related enzymes have distinct functions. To develop a tool to dissect, evaluate and quantify the activities of human GCPII and GCPIII, we analysed the catalytic efficiencies of these enzymes towards three physiological substrates. We observed a high efficiency of BCG cleavage by GCPIII but not GCPII. We also identified a strong modulation of GCPIII enzymatic activity by divalent cations, while we did not observe this effect for GCPII. Additionally, we used X‐ray crystallography and computational modelling (quantum and molecular mechanical calculations) to describe the mechanism of BCG binding to the active sites of GCPII and GCPIII, respectively. Finally, we took advantage of the substantial differences in the enzymatic efficiencies of GCPII and GCPIII towards their substrates, using enzymatic assays for specific detection of these proteins in human tissues. Our findings suggest that GCPIII may not act merely as a complementary enzyme to GCPII, and it more likely possesses a specific physiological function related to BCG metabolism in the human body.

Database

The X‐ray structure of GCPII Glu424Ala in complex with BCG has been deposited in the RCSB Protein Data Bank under accession code 5F09.
Mutually Beneficial Foreign Language Learning: Creating Meaningful Interactions Through Video‐Synchronous Computer‐Mediated Communication
Authors: Kato Fumie , Spring Ryan , Mori Chikako
Published: May 2016

Providing learners of a foreign language with meaningful opportunities for interactions, specifically with native speakers, is especially challenging for instructors. One way to overcome this obstacle is through video‐synchronous computer‐mediated communication tools such as Skype software. This study reports quantitative and qualitative data from a Skype partner program that emphasized meaningful communication between American students learning Japanese in the United States and Japanese students learning English in Japan. Analysis of pre‐ and posttests showed significant improvement in the listening and speaking abilities of the Japanese participants and in the speaking abilities of the American participants.
Evidence of pathogenicity of a mutation in 3′ untranslated region causing mild haemophilia A
Authors: Pezeshkpoor B. , Berkemeier A‐ C. , Czogalla K. J. , Oldenburg J. , El‐Maarri O.
Published: May 2016

Introduction

Despite the high mutation detection rate, in a small group of haemophilia A patients, using current screening methods, no causal mutation in F8 can be detected. In such cases, the causal mutation might be in the non‐coding sequences of F8.

Aim

Rarely, mutations in non‐coding sequences reveal a pivotal role. Here, we analysed a mild haemophilia A patient harbouring a mutation in the 3′ untranslated region (UTR) of F8 and elucidated the molecular mechanism leading to haemophilia phenotype.

Methods

To find the causal mutation, the complete F8 genomic region was analysed by next generation sequencing. The effect of the identified alteration on F8 expression was evaluated in silico and analysed for the splicing effect at mRNA level. Moreover, in vitro studies using a luciferase reporter system were performed to functionally analyse the mutation.

Results

We identified an alteration in the 3′ UTR (c.*56G>T) as the only change in F8 gene. Pedigree analysis showed a segregation pattern for three affected members for the presumptive mutation. Moreover, the variant was predicted in silico to create a new donor splice site, which was also detected at mRNA level, resulting in a 159 bp deletion in 3′ UTR of F8. Finally, the variant showed reduced expression of the gene reporter firefly luciferase in cell line expression analysis.

Conclusion

Our results advocate the patient specific c.*56G>T base change in the 3′ UTR to be a disease‐associated mutation leading to alternative splicing explaining the mild haemophilia A phenotype.
Experience of a new high‐purity factor X concentrate in subjects with hereditary factor X deficiency undergoing surgery
Authors: Escobar M. A. , Auerswald G. , Austin S. , Huang J. N. , Norton M. , Millar C. M.
Published: May 2016

Introduction

Maintaining haemostasis in surgery is challenging for hereditary rare bleeding disorders in which multi‐coagulation‐factor concentrates are the only therapeutic option. Hereditary factor X (FX) deficiency affects 1:500 000 to 1:1 000 000 individuals, and no specific replacement FX concentrate has been available. A high‐purity, plasma‐derived FX concentrate (pdFX) has been developed for patients with hereditary FX deficiency.

Aim

Our objective was to assess the safety and efficacy of pdFX in subjects with FX deficiency undergoing surgery.

Methods

Subjects with hereditary mild‐to‐severe FX deficiency (basal plasma FX activity [FX:C] <20 IU dL−1) undergoing surgery received pdFX preoperatively to raise FX:C to 70–90 IU dL−1 and postoperatively to maintain levels >50 IU dL−1 until the subject was no longer at risk of bleeding due to surgery. Efficacy of pdFX was assessed by blood loss during surgery, requirement for blood transfusion, postoperative bleeding from the surgical or other sites, and changes in haemoglobin levels. Safety was assessed by adverse events (AEs), development of inhibitors, and clinically significant changes in laboratory parameters.

Results

Five subjects (aged 14–59 years) underwent seven surgical procedures (four major and three minor). Treatment duration was 1–15 days. For each procedure, pdFX treatment was assessed as “excellent” in preventing bleeding and achieving haemostasis. No blood transfusions were required, no AEs related to pdFX were observed, and no clinically significant trends were found in any laboratory parameters.

Conclusion

These data demonstrate that pdFX is safe and effective as replacement therapy in five subjects with mild‐to‐severe FX deficiency undergoing surgery on seven occasions.
Structure–Property Relationship in an Electroconductive Hydroxyapatite–Titanium Disilicide Composite
Authors: Kumar Alok , Misra R. Devesh Kumar , Basu Bikramjit
Published: May 2016

We elucidate here the structure–property relationship in a novel composite system consisting of hydroxyapatite (HA) and titanium disilicide that addresses the challenge of low electrical conductivity and fracture toughness of hydroxyapatite. Theoretical considerations indicated that the addition of 20 wt.% titanium disilicide (σ ~ 106 S/m) favorably contributed to the increase in electrical conductivity (σ ~ 105 S/m) of the HA–titanium disilicide system. As compared to theoretical value, a lower value of electrical conductivity of HA‐20 wt.%TiSi2 composite (σ ~ 67.117 ± 3.57 S/m) was observed in experimental measurement using four probe method. However, this electrical conductivity of HA‐20 wt.%TiSi2 composite was significantly higher than the HA, because no current was recorded in case of HA in the sensitivity range of the instrument. During spark plasma sintering, to raise per unit temperature, higher magnitude of current was utilized in case of HA‐20TiSi2 than HA. This resulted in higher densification of HA‐20TiSi2 during initial stage of sintering. Also, a significant improvement in fracture toughness was observed on the addition of TiSi2 to HA from 0.6 MPa.m1/2 in HA to 1.2 MPa.m1/2 in HA‐20TiSi2. The mechanism of increase in fracture toughness involved crack deflection, friction bridging, wake debonding, and elastic bridging.
Evaluation of chemical components of debittered olives undergone preservation and polyphenol oxidation
Authors: Ramírez Eva , García Pedro , Brenes Manuel , Romero Concepción
Published: May 2016

Olives can reduce their bitterness by oleuropein oxidation via an enzymatic reaction. In this study, olives of the Manzanilla and Hojiblanca varieties preserved in acidified brine were submitted to oxidation tests under overpressure of oxygen (0.3 bars) for 3 days. It was found that the oxidation of fruit preserved for more than 3–4 months showed a reduction in the concentration of oleuropein, but with great variability (28–100%). By contrast, when olives were preserved for only one month, the oxidation treatment was able to decrease more than 90% of the content of oleuropein in the fruit. These oxidised olives were stored again in the acidified medium for 6 months and no spoilage or organoleptic problems were detected. Oxidation gave rise to darker olives (L* parameter diminished from 40 to 34). Moreover, the oxidised fruit was enriched with free phenols such as hydroxytyrosol and tyrosol as a consequence of the acid hydrolysis of phenolic glucosides during the preservation step.
Breast cancer patients’ experiences of nursing care with the focus on emotional support: the implementation of a nursing intervention
Authors: Elisabet Pålsson Maj‐Britt , Norberg Astrid
Published: May 2016

Nursing care with the focus on emotional support, aimed at improving breast cancer patients’ adjustment to everyday life, was implemented. The women were offered the opportunity to talk about illness‐related thoughts and reactions, as well as to express feelings of anxiety, fear and anguish with a nurse who listened, consoled and answered questions. The organizational changes included extensive co‐operation between the surgical ward and primary health care, shorter waiting times, and changed routines around information about the diagnosis. A total of 26 Swedish women, aged 35‐69, with newly diagnosed breast cancer, described their experiences of the disease and nursing care in a semi‐structured interview 6 months after the primary treatment. Data were coded by open coding; themes and categories were formulated. Findings showed that emotional support, as well as organizational changes of care, led to feelings of safety and security. Most of the women could plan for the future despite a demanding situation. The study indicates that the nursing intervention may improve women's sense of control, and also that further changes in care are needed to meet their psychosocial needs, such as adequate information about medical treatment and more ‘confirming’ relationships.