bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intentions to turnover
Authors: Cronley Courtney , Kim Youn kyoung
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to advance the knowledge base by testing the hypothesis that job satisfaction mediates the relationship between perceived organizational culture and intentions to turnover, and that employee characteristics moderate this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were drawn from a cross-sectional online survey of employees at one Area Command of The Salvation Army in the USA (N=250, 66.8 percent female, 26.4 percent African American). The study implemented two different techniques to incorporate methodological triangulation to test the mediation model: a three-step regression analysis and a bootstrapping technique in which direct and indirect effects are tested at once. Also, a conditional process analysis was used to test the moderated mediation model.

Findings

Results supported the hypothesized mediation relationship and showed that lower mean organizational culture scores were significantly associated with lower job satisfaction, and thus, higher intentions to turnover. Additionally, office location moderated the indirect effect of organizational culture on intentions to turnover through job satisfaction.

Practical implications

Findings highlight the variability in how organizational culture affects employees across the work environment. Interventions, which are subtly tuned to the variation in workplaces, may be the most effective at building strong and positive organizational cultures.

Originality/value

The current study extends prior empirical work by testing the hypothesis that employee characteristics moderate the mediating effect of organizational culture and job satisfaction on intentions to turnover. Results showed that work location moderated the relationship between organizational culture and job satisfaction; organizational culture had a stronger effect on job satisfaction among employees working at the administrative office compared to those in community-based centers. Findings underscore the need for leadership to create a strong culture that permeates all work sectors in order for it to be effective.
Servant leaders as underestimators: theoretical and practical implications
Authors: Sousa Milton , van Dierendonck Dirk
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a new interpretation of underestimation for the particular case of servant leadership, contending the ideas that underestimation is caused by lack of self-awareness or low self-esteem, and that self-other agreement is a necessary condition for self-awareness. Additional reflections are provided on the development of servant leadership in organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

A revision of the self-other agreement literature was done, with a focus on underestimation. The theoretical foundations of servant leadership were analysed. The main hypothesis was derived, including a set of supporting propositions. An empirical study was conducted based on a polynomial regression and 3D surface analysis, including 36 managers and 160 followers.

Findings

Underestimation was the strongest predictor of servant leadership effectiveness in generating psychological empowerment amongst followers. The theoretical revision provides arguments to support the claim that servant leaders underestimate themselves because of their humility and valuing of others.

Practical implications

With the increasing adoption of servant leadership, this study supports the need to develop specific processes for detecting, assessing, and developing servant leaders in organizations. Additional care is necessary on the interpretation of self-other ratings through 360-degree instruments in light of the leadership model being considered.

Originality/value

It is the first empirical study within the self-other leadership agreement that incorporates servant leadership. It provides an alternative explanation of underestimation for servant leaders. The paper also provides a reflection on the practical implications of underestimation for developing servant leadership in organizations.
Entry modes and barriers to internationalisation in China: an overview of management consulting firms
Authors: Niñerola Angels , Sánchez-Rebull Maria-Victoria , Hernandez-Lara Ana-Beatriz
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to analyse the entry mode choice of the Spanish companies in China, the factors that influence it and the barriers that they found.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative approach is used by interviewing the partners of management consulting firms (MCFs) specialised in internationalisation processes in China.

Findings

The decision on the entry mode choice depends on whether the firm has incentives for investment with a partner rather than the size or the international experience of the board and the top managers. The barriers faced by Spanish companies in China are related to legal issues, bureaucracy, culture, language, trust and human resources.

Practical implications

Companies must have a differential factor to succeed in China and use a legal form that lets them to protect this advantage regardless of the entry form chosen. MCFs pointed out the need to collaborate with local people and to rely on a management team capable of overcoming the barriers.

Originality/value

One of the major contributions of this study is the methodology, as the view of the consultants in the internationalisation process of companies had not been studied before.
Corporate social responsibility performance communication and portfolio management
Authors: Ameer Rashid , Othman Radiah
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) performance communication and stocks’ performance using socially responsible investment (SRI) portfolio management approach.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used the multi-factors models to examine the impact of CSR performance communication on the ex post monthly returns of three distinctly formed portfolios as well as their differential performance from 2001 to 2013 in a small economy of New Zealand.

Findings

The results show that SRS portfolio comprising of the stocks that demonstrate a relatively less proactive approach to the social and environmental concerns outperforms a stock portfolio that comprises of companies that have a relatively proactive approach to stakeholder engagement referred to as SVS portfolio. Furthermore, the authors’ findings show a positive relationship between social performance and market valuation. This indicates that the market values more stakeholder engagement in regard to social issues than environmental issues.

Research limitations/implications

The authors’ findings imply that the SRI does make perfect financial sense in a small economy such as New Zealand. The perception of the CSR communication as an “insurance” for mitigation of social and environmental risks is one of the factors driving the valuation of SRI portfolios in New Zealand.

Originality/value

The authors collected CSR data from the publicly available sources such as the annual reports, the CSR reports and sustainability reports because a layman investor is more likely to rely on these sources in a small economy.
Differential informativeness of analyst reports by investor types
Authors: Kim Kyung Soon , Park Jinwoo , Park Yun W.
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether there is any difference across individual investors, domestic and foreign institutional investors in trading volume responses to analyst reports. The authors also examine the determinants of trading volume responses using firm as well as forecast characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use trading data from the Korean equity market. The authors divide investors into three classes of investors; namely, individual investors, domestic institutional investors, and foreign institutional investors. The authors then examine whether the trading responses to analyst reports vary across investor types, and how firm characteristics and characteristics of analyst reports influence the trading activities on the release dates across investor types.

Findings

Individual investors are the most responsive investor group, being responsive to analyst reports on small, neglected firms with large inside ownership as well as to analyst reports with optimistic forecasts. Domestic institutional investors are responsive to reports on neglected firms with high return volatility while foreign institutional investors show least responses.

Originality/value

There are few studies that investigate whether the trading responses to analyst reports vary across investor types and how firm characteristics and characteristics of analyst reports influence the trading activities on the release dates across investor types. Taking advantage of the trading volume data for the three main investor types in the Korean stock market, the authors study the trading volume responses for each investor type and make comparisons across investor types.
Does investor personality moderate the relationship between information sources and trading behavior? Evidence from Chinese stock market
Authors: Tauni Muhammad Zubair , Rao Zia-ur-Rehman , Fang Hong-Xing , Gao Minghao
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of the key sources of information, namely, financial advice, word-of-mouth communication and specialized press, on trading behavior of Chinese stock investors. The study also analyzed if the association between the key sources of information and trading behavior is influenced by investor personality.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors adopted the Big Five personality framework and examined the survey results of individual stock investors (n=541) in China. Personality traits of investors were measured by the NEO-Five Factor Inventory (Costa and McCrae, 1989). The authors performed probit regression analysis to evaluate the moderating influence of investor personality traits on the association between sources of information and stock trading behavior.

Findings

The results of the study confirm the previous findings that the key sources of information used by investors as a foundation of their financial choices have a significant influence on their trading behavior. The study also provides empirical evidence that investor personality traits moderate the relationship between the key sources of information and trading behavior. Financial advisors tend to increase the frequency of trading in investors with openness, extraversion, neuroticism and agreeableness personality traits, and tend to decrease the intensity of trading in investors with conscientiousness trait. On the other hand, financial information acquired from word-of-mouth communication is more likely to enhance trading frequency in extraverted and agreeable investors, and is more likely to reduce trading frequency in investors with openness, conscientiousness and neuroticism traits. Finally, the use of specialized press leads to more adjustment in portfolios of the investors with openness and conscientiousness traits than those with other personality traits. An alternative mediated model was not supported.

Originality/value

This research contributes to information search literature and behavioral finance literature and provides empirical evidence that the psychological characteristics of investors are significant predictors of the variations in information-trading link. The study offers new theoretical insights of investors’ behavior due to the characteristics of Chinese stock market which are unique from other stock markets in the world. To the authors’ best knowledge, no previous study has been conducted so far in Chinese stock market to explore variations with regards to the impact of the key sources of information on trading behavior by the Big Five investor personality and this paper seeks to fill this gap.
Fatty acid profile of wild edible and cultivated mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus, Amanita spp and Termitomyces microcarpus)
Authors: Ogwok Patrick , Muyinda Robert , Nakisozi Henriettah , Bamuwamye Michael
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to investigate fat content and fatty acid profile of cultivated (Pleurotus ostreatus) and wild edible mushrooms (Amanita spp and Termitomyces microcarpus).

Design/methodology/approach

Pleurotus ostreatus was grown in soil and on cotton seed husks in mushroom growing rooms at Busitema University, Uganda. T. microcarpus and Amanita spp were collected from the wild. Freshly harvested mushrooms were dried at 60°C for 48 h in a hot air oven. Oil was extracted using a Clevenger apparatus. Fatty acid analysis was done using gas chromatography with flame ionization detection.

Findings

Fat content ranged between 0.24 and 5.23 per cent. Variation was noted between P. ostreatus grown in soil and on cotton seed husks (p = 0.0090). Similarly, Amanita spp and T. microcarpus had differing fat contents (p = 0.0098). Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) predominated over saturated fatty acids (SFA) and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA). Linoleic acid (LA) was the most abundant fatty acid (FA) (30.91 to 54.35 per cent). It varied between Amanita spp and T. microcarpus (p = 0.0001) but not between substrates (p = 0.1891). Ratios of PUFA/SFA, MUFA/SFA and PUFA/MUFA were within the desirable ranges. Omega-6 FA/ω-3 FA ratio was higher than that recommended for a healthy diet. However, the low amount of fat in mushrooms suppresses the negative effects of a high ω-6 FA/ω-3 FA ratio.

Originality/value

Information on FA profile of cultivated and wild edible mushrooms will provide a basis for commercial exploitation of the cultivated mushrooms. This work showed that P. ostreatus, Amanita spp and T. microcarpus are healthy foods with regard to the low fat content and high amounts of LA.
Evaluation of the correlation between severity of acquired idiopathic generalized anhidrosis and quality of life scores
Authors: Munetsugu Takichi , Fujimoto Tomoko , Satoh Takahiro , Nakazato Yoshihiko , Ohshima Yuichiro , Asahina Masato , Yokozeki Hiroo
Published: March 2017

Symptoms of acquired idiopathic generalized anhidrosis (AIGA) include heat retention and/or heat stroke due to the effects of the disorder on the perspiration ability of the whole body under thermal environmental changes or exercise. Additionally, cholinergic urticaria can also occur in these patients. AIGA has a major impact on everyday life. However, the effects of AIGA severity on the quality of life (QOL) of the patients have not been sufficiently defined. The objective of this study was to evaluate the correlation between AIGA severity and QOL. Study subjects comprised 44 patients diagnosed with AIGA at three registered institutions. AIGA severity assessment was conducted and the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) questionnaire was administered. Correlations between AIGA severity and DLQI, as well as severity by DLQI subscale, were assessed. We found a positive correlation between total score of AIGA severity criteria and DLQI total scores (R = 0.720, P = 0.001). The impairment increased with the increase in AIGA severity (P < 0.01). In relation to the DLQI subscales, leisure (social and sporting activities) impairment was significantly higher for patients with severe AIGA than those with mild AIGA (P < 0.01). Comparing QOL for AIGA patients with that of patients with other dermatological disorders, it is possible that QOL impairment for AIGA patients is as severe as that for patients with atopic dermatitis. AIGA severity and DLQI are correlated and AIGA patients experience disruption of everyday life more broadly than conventionally perceived.
Seismic data interpolation using frequency‐domain complex nonstationary autoregression
Authors: Liu Guochang , Chen Xiaohong
Published: March 2017

We have developed a novel method for missing seismic data interpolation using f‐x‐domain regularised nonstationary autoregression. f‐x regularised nonstationary autoregression interpolation can deal with the events that have space‐varying dips. We assume that the coefficients of f‐x regularised nonstationary autoregression are smoothly varying along the space axis. This method includes two steps: the estimation of the coefficients and the interpolation of missing traces using estimated coefficients. We estimate the f‐x regularised nonstationary autoregression coefficients for the completed data using weighted nonstationary autoregression equations with smoothing constraints. For regularly missing data, similar to Spitz f‐x interpolation, we use autoregression coefficients estimated from low‐frequency components without aliasing to obtain autoregression coefficients of high‐frequency components with aliasing. For irregularly missing or gapped data, we use known traces to establish nonstationary autoregression equations with regularisation to estimate the f‐x autoregression coefficients of the complete data. We implement the algorithm by iterated scheme using a frequency‐domain conjugate gradient method with shaping regularisation. The proposed method improves the calculation efficiency by applying shaping regularisation and implementation in the frequency domain. The applicability and effectiveness of the proposed method are examined by synthetic and field data examples.
Seismic resonances of spherical acoustic cavities
Authors: Schneider F.M. , Esterhazy S. , Perugia I. , Bokelmann G.
Published: March 2017

We study the interaction of a seismic wavefield with a spherical acoustic gas‐ or fluid‐filled cavity. The intention of this study is to clarify whether seismic resonances can be expected, a characteristic feature that may help in detecting cavities in the subsurface. This is important for many applications, in particular the detection of underground nuclear explosions, which are to be prohibited by the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty. To calculate the full seismic wavefield from an incident plane wave that interacts with the cavity, we considered an analytic formulation of the problem. The wavefield interaction consists of elastic scattering and the wavefield interaction between the acoustic and elastic media. Acoustic resonant modes caused by internal reflections in the acoustic cavity show up as spectral peaks in the frequency domain. The resonant peaks coincide with the eigenfrequencies of the un‐damped system described by the particular acoustic medium bounded in a sphere with stiff walls. The filling of the cavity could thus be determined by the observation of spectral peaks from acoustic resonances. By energy transmission from the internal oscillations back into the elastic domain, the oscillations experience damping, resulting in a frequency shift and a limitation of the resonance amplitudes. In case of a gas‐filled cavity, the impedance contrast is still high, which means low damping of the internal oscillations resulting in very narrow resonances of high amplitude. In synthetic seismograms calculated in the surrounding elastic domain, the acoustic resonances of gas‐filled cavities show up as persisting oscillations. However, due to the weak acoustic–elastic coupling in this case, the amplitudes of the oscillations are very low. Due to a lower impedance contrast, a fluid‐filled cavity has a stronger acoustic–elastic coupling, which results in wide spectral peaks of lower amplitudes. In the synthetic seismograms derived in the surrounding medium of fluid‐filled cavities, acoustic resonances show up as strong but fast decaying reverberations.
Development of resistance to serotonin‐induced itch in bile duct ligated mice
Authors: Ostadhadi Sattar , Haddadi Nazgol‐Sadat , Foroutan Arash , Azimi Ehsan , Elmariah Sarina , Dehpour Ahmad‐Reza
Published: March 2017

Cholestatic itch can be severe and significantly impair the quality of life of patients. The serotonin system is implicated in cholestatic itch; however, the pruritogenic properties of serotonin have not been evaluated in cholestatic mice. Here, we investigated the serotonin‐induced itch in cholestatic mice which was induced by bile duct ligation (BDL). Serotonin, sertraline or saline were administered intradermally to the rostral back area in BDL and sham operated (SHAM) mice, and the scratching behaviour was videotaped for 1 hour. Bile duct ligated mice had significantly increased scratching responses to saline injection on the seventh day after surgery. Additionally, serotonin or sertraline significantly induced scratching behaviour in BDL mice compared to saline at day 7 after surgery, while it did not induce itch at day 5. The scratching behaviour induced by serotonin or sertraline was significantly less in BDL mice compared to SHAM mice. Likewise, the locomotor activity of BDL or SHAM mice was not significantly different from unoperated (UNOP) mice on the fifth and seventh day, suggesting that the scratching behaviour was not affected by motor dysfunctions. Our data suggest that despite the potentiation of evoked itch, a resistance to serotonin‐induced itch is developed in cholestatic mice.
Cardiac fibrosis in the ageing heart: Contributors and mechanisms
Authors: Lu Lu , Guo Jingbin , Hua Yue , Huang Kevin , Magaye Ruth , Cornell Jake , Kelly Darren J. , Reid Christopher , Liew Danny , Zhou Yingchun , Chen Aihua , Xiao Wei , Fu Qiang , Wang Bing Hui
Published: March 2017

Cardiac fibrosis refers to an excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) in cardiac tissue. Fibrotic tissue is stiffer and less compliant, resulting in subsequent cardiac dysfunction and heart failure. Cardiac fibrosis in the ageing heart may involve activation of fibrogenic signalling and inhibition of anti‐fibrotic signalling, leading to an imbalance of ECM turnover. Excessive accumulation of ECM such as collagen in older patients contributes to progressive ventricular dysfunction. Overexpression of collagen is derived from various sources, including higher levels of fibrogenic growth factors, proliferation of fibroblasts and cellular transdifferentiation. These may be triggered by factors, such as oxidative stress, inflammation, hypertension, cellular senescence and cell death, contributing to age‐related fibrotic cardiac remodelling. In this review, we will discuss the fibrogenic contributors in age‐related cardiac fibrosis, and the potential mechanisms by which fibrogenic processes can be interrupted for therapeutic intent.
Prompting the Benefit of the Doubt: The Joint Effect of Auditor‐Client Social Bonds and Measurement Uncertainty on Audit Adjustments
Authors: KACHELMEIER STEVEN J. , VAN LANDUYT BEN W.
Published: March 2017

We design an incentivized experiment to test whether measurement uncertainty elevates the risk that social bonds between auditors and reporters compromise audit adjustments. Results indicate that, when audit evidence is characterized by some residual uncertainty, the adjustments our auditor‐participants require are sensitive to whether auditors have an opportunity to form a modest but friendly social bond with reporters. In contrast, although auditors do not adjust fully even when misstatements are known with certainty, social bonding has no effect in this scenario. Accordingly, our experiment contributes beyond the main effects of social bonding and measurement uncertainty demonstrated in prior research by showing that these forces interact. A practical implication is that regulators and practitioners should consider both the technical and the social challenges facing audits of complex estimates.
Evaluation of potential RNA‐interference‐target genes to control cotton mealybug, Phenacoccus solenopsis (Hemiptera: Pseudococcuidae)
Authors: Khan Arif M. , Ashfaq Muhammad , Khan Azhar A. , Naseem Muhammad T. , Mansoor Shahid
Published: March 2017

RNA interference (RNAi) of vital insect genes is a potential tool for targeted pest control. However, selection of the right target genes is a challenge because the RNAi efficacy is known to vary among insect species. Cotton mealybug, Phenacoccus solenopsis, is a phloem‐feeding economically important crop pest. We evaluated the RNAi of 2 vital genes, Bursicon (PsBur) and V‐ATPase (PsV‐ATPase) as potential targets in P. solenopsis for its control. PCR fragments of PsBur and PsV‐ATPase were amplified using cDNA synthesized from the total RNA. The PCR amplicons were cloned into Potato virus X (PVX) to develop recombinant PVX for the inoculation of Nicotiana tabacum plants for bioassays with healthy P. solenopsis. Reverse‐transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) was used to validate the expression of transgenes in the recombinant‐PVX‐inoculated plants (treated), and suppression of the target genes in the mealybugs exposed to them. The RT‐PCR confirmed the expression of transgenes in the treated plants. Mealybug individuals on treated plants either died or showed physical deformities. Further, the population of mealybug was significantly reduced by feeding on N. tabacum expressing RNAi triggers against PsBur and PsV‐ATPase. The results conclude that RNAi is activated in P. solenopsis by feeding on N. tabacum expressing RNAi triggering elements of PsBur and PsV‐ATPase genes through recombinant PVX vector. Further, V‐ATPase and Bursicon genes are potential targets for RNAi‐mediated control of P. solenopsis.
Tea Polyphenols as Inhibitors of Furan Formed in the Maillard Model System and Canned Coffee Model
Authors: Bi K.H. , Zhang L. , Qiao X.G. , Xu Z.X.
Published: March 2017

In this article, the effects of sugars and amino acids on furan formation via the Maillard reaction in low‐moisture model systems were investigated. Glucose and alanine are important furan precursors, and the effects of the heating temperature, heating time, and molar ratio of glucose to alanine on furan formation were studied in glucose/alanine model system by response surface methodology. The heating temperature greatly affected furan formation. The maximum furan concentration was obtained with a glucose‐to‐alanine molar ratio of 0.83:1.00, by heating at 151 °C for 41 min. Tea polyphenols effectively inhibited furan formation in the glucose/alanine model and a canned coffee model. A high inhibition rate of 42.4% ± 1.5% was obtained in the canned coffee model during sterilization procedure with addition of 84 mg (the mass fraction is 12.1%) of tea polyphenols (99%). However, the content of aromatic components in the canned coffee model was significantly reduced at the same time. This study provides evidence for a good furan inhibitor that can be used in food processing.
Accuracy and bias of methods used for root length measurements in functional root research
Authors: Delory Benjamin M. , Weidlich Emanuela W. A. , Meder Leonie , Lütje Anna , van Duijnen Richard , Weidlich Rafael , Temperton Vicky M.
Published: March 2017

Functional root traits are becoming a key measure in plant ecology, and root length measurements are needed for the calculation of root traits. Several methods are used to estimate the total root length (TRL) of washed root samples [e.g. modified line intersect (LI) method, WinRHIZOTM and IJ_Rhizo], but no standardized comparison of methods exists.

We used a set of digital images of unstained root samples to compare measurements given by the LI method and automated methods provided by WinRHIZOTM and IJ_Rhizo. Linear regression models were used to detect bias. Both linear regression models and the Bland‐Altman`s method of differences were used to evaluate the accuracy of eight methods (1 manual, 2 semi‐automated and 5 automated) in comparison with a reference method that avoided root detection errors.

Length measurements were highly correlated, but did not exactly agree with each other in 11 of 12 method comparisons. All tested methods tended to underestimate the TRL of unstained root samples. The accuracy of WinRHIZOTM was influenced by the thresholding method and the root length density (RLD) in the pictures. For the other methods, no linear relationship was found between accuracy and RLD. With WinRHIZOTM (global thresholding + pixel reclassification; RLD = 1 cm cm−2), the Regent's method and the Tennant's method underestimated the TRL by 7·0 ± 6·2% and 4·7 ± 7·9%, respectively. The LI method gave satisfactory results on average (underestimation: 4·2 ± 6·0%), but our results suggest that it can lead to inaccurate estimations for single images. In IJ_Rhizo, the Kimura method was the best and underestimated the TRL by 5·4 ± 6·1%.

Our results showed that care must be taken when comparing measurements acquired with different methods because they can lead to different results. When acquiring root images, we advise to (i) increase the contrast between fine roots and background by staining the roots, and (ii) avoid overlapping roots by not exceeding a RLD of 1 cm cm−2. Under these conditions, good length estimates can be obtained with WinRHIZOTM (global thresholding + pixel reclassification). The Kimura method in IJ_Rhizo can be an alternative to WinRHIZOTM.
A guide to null models for animal social network analysis
Authors: Farine Damien R.
Published: March 2017

Null models are an important component of the social network analysis toolbox. However, their use in hypothesis testing is still not widespread. Furthermore, several different approaches for constructing null models exist, each with their relative strengths and weaknesses, and often testing different hypotheses.

In this study, I highlight why null models are important for robust hypothesis testing in studies of animal social networks. Using simulated data containing a known observation bias, I test how different statistical tests and null models perform if such a bias was unknown.

I show that permutations of the raw observational (or ‘pre‐network’) data consistently account for underlying structure in the generated social network, and thus can reduce both type I and type II error rates. However, permutations of pre‐network data remain relatively uncommon in animal social network analysis because they are challenging to implement for certain data types, particularly those from focal follows and GPS tracking.

I explain simple routines that can easily be implemented across different types of data, and supply R code that applies each type of null model to the same simulated dataset. The R code can easily be modified to test hypotheses with empirical data. Widespread use of pre‐network data permutation methods will benefit researchers by facilitating robust hypothesis testing.
Modelling the probability of microhabitat formation on trees using cross‐sectional data
Authors: Courbaud Benoit , Pupin Cyrille , Letort Anthony , Cabanettes Alain , Larrieu Laurent
Published: March 2017

Context: Tree‐related microhabitats (TreMs), such as trunk cavities, peeled bark, cracks or sporophores of lignicolous fungi, are essential to support forest biodiversity because they are used as substrate, foraging, roosting or breeding places by bryophytes, fungi, invertebrates and vertebrates. Biodiversity conservation requires the continuous presence of TreMs in a forest. However, little is known about their dynamics. Moreover, we usually have only cross‐sectional TreM data (observations of many trees at a single time), making it difficult to estimate TreM formation rates.

Method: This study adapted the methods of survival and reliability analysis to model the rate of TreM formation per unit of diameter increment as a function of tree diameter at breast height (DBH). We tested three variants of this model: the TreM formation rate independent of, proportional to or increasing nonlinearly with DBH. We calculated the likelihood of the models, considering cross‐sectional observations either of TreM presence/absence or TreM number on trees of different sizes. We calibrated the models in six subnatural montane forests dominated by European beech (Fagus sylvatica) and silver fir (Abies alba) – in the French Pyrenees. Assuming an annual DBH increment value, the annual formation rate of TreMs was predicted both at the level of the tree and at the level of the forest stand.

Results: This method provides a coherent framework to model the probability that a TreM forms on a tree during a unit growth step and produces realistic predictions of TreM accumulation on trees. TreM formation accelerated as trees grew for A. alba but not for F. sylvatica. The TreM formation rate was twice as fast on F. sylvatica as on A. alba. We estimated a formation of 0·82–1·28 TreMs/ha per year and 0·5–0·9 TreM‐bearing trees/ha per year in the subnatural forests studied.

Synthesis and applications: This method makes rigorous modelling of the formation of TreMs possible during the growth of trees and forest stands. The quantitative evaluation of TreM fluxes will help to design forest biodiversity conservation strategies favouring the development and temporal continuity of TreMs.
Public‐private differences in short‐term neonatal outcomes following birth by prelabour caesarean section at early and full term
Authors: Adams Nicole , Gibbons Kristen S. , Tudehope David
Published: March 2017

Background

Prelabour caesarean section (CS) at early term (370–386 weeks) is associated with higher rates of adverse short‐term neonatal outcomes and higher costs than those performed at full term (390–406 weeks). Prelabour CS is more common in private than in public hospitals in Australia, particularly at early term.

Aims

To evaluate the impact of hospital sector (public or private) and timing of delivery on short‐term neonatal outcomes following prelabour CS at term.

Materials and methods

A retrospective cohort study of 22 954 viable singleton prelabour CS births at term (370–406 weeks) at a single centre encompassing co‐located public and private hospitals during 1998–2013 was undertaken. Propensity score analysis was used to adjust for confounding differences between sectors. The primary outcome was Neonatal Critical Care Unit (NCCU) admission with serious morbidity. Secondary outcomes included respiratory distress, vigorous resuscitation and jaundice.

Results

The private hospital performed prelabour CS at over double the rate of the public hospital (33.7% of all private births vs 14.7% public) and more private than public prelabour CSs occurred at early term (66.8% vs 47.9%). Public babies were more than twice as likely as private babies to require admission to NCCU with serious morbidity (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 2.54, 95% CI 1.77–3.65) but were less likely to need vigorous resuscitation (AOR 0.53, 95% CI 0.45–0.62). Disparities in outcomes between public and private cohorts were accentuated at full term.

Conclusion

Despite early‐term prelabour CSs occurring more often in the private hospital, public babies had more adverse outcomes and treatment escalations.
Ovulation monitoring and fertility knowledge: Their relationship to fertility experience in a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Righarts Antoinette , Dickson Nigel P. , Parkin Lianne , Gillett Wayne R.
Published: March 2017

Background

Various aspects of fertility knowledge, including the timing of the fertile window, have consistently been found to be poor. Limited evidence also suggests ovulation monitoring to time intercourse could be common. However, there have been no studies that compare these two aspects of fertility and women's fertility/infertility experiences.

Aim

To examine the frequency of ovulation monitoring and its relationship with fertility knowledge and experience.

Method

A cross‐sectional study of women aged 25–50 years resident in southern New Zealand was undertaken in 2011. Randomly selected women were asked to complete a fertility questionnaire. Outcome prevalence measures were calculated with 95% confidence intervals (CI) and associations investigated using χ2 tests and Poisson regression.

Results

Ovulation monitoring was common, having ever been undertaken by 31.4% (95% CI: 28.5–34.3%) of the 1034 participants. However, knowledge was poor, particularly regarding the fertile window. More women who had ever monitored ovulation correctly identified the fertile window, although the proportion was still very low (18.4 vs 13.1% in those who had not, P = 0.027). Regression modelling showed ovulation monitoring was independently associated with seeking medical help to conceive, education and fertility experience, but not with knowledge.

Conclusion

This study confirms ovulation monitoring was commonly undertaken. However, many women, including those who had monitored their ovulation, had poor fertility knowledge and failed to identify the fertile window. Poor fertility knowledge needs to be addressed, especially among women intending to conceive.
Neurophysiological assessment of acute pain in infants: a scoping review of research methods
Authors: Benoit B , Martin‐Misener R , Newman A , Latimer M , Campbell‐Yeo M
Published: March 2017

A systematic scoping search to describe the neurophysiological methods used in infant acute pain assessment research was conducted. Of the 2411 abstracts screened, 19 articles were retained. Nine studies utilised near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS), two utilised functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), and eight utilised electroencephalography (EEG). There was methodological variability in studies utilising NIRS, whereas EEG and fMRI studies reported consistent methods. Of the eight EEG studies, six identified a nociceptive‐specific event‐related potential. Conclusion: While more methodologically rigorous studies are needed, ERPs appear to hold some promise as indicators of infant nociception during clinical procedures to supplement existing measures.
Mowing influences community‐level variation in resource‐use strategies and flowering phenology along an ecological succession on Mediterranean road slopes
Authors: Bouchet Diane C. , Cheptou Pierre‐Olivier , Munoz François
Published: March 2017

Questions

How do species composition, resource‐use strategy and flowering phenology change and relate to each other in road slope plant communities along an ecological succession after construction work? How does recurrent mowing influence resource‐use successional trajectory and flowering phenology in communities? Does intraspecific variation contribute to these community‐level functional responses?

Location

Road slopes in Mediterranean southern France.

Methods

We designed a chronosequence of 25 road slopes, each including both unmown and yearly mown parts. We analysed the influence of age and mowing on community‐level trait values (CWM) of LDMC, SLA, onset of flowering Date (OFD), end of flowering date (EFD) and flowering duration (FDur). We tested for contribution of intraspecific variation of traits to these functional variations. We also tested for relationship between changes in taxonomic composition, environmental parameters and functional responses.

Results

We found slower successional variation of resource‐use strategies in communities undergoing recurrent mowing, compared to unmown vegetation. Onset of flowering was earlier in mown communities. End of flowering and flowering duration did not directly depend on successional stage or mowing but related to resource‐use strategies. Species turnover was an important driver of functional variation and the major components of plant taxonomic variation were primarily related to environmental and functional changes.

Conclusions

On road slopes, successional changes in functional and taxonomic composition were influenced by mowing, which did not totally prevent vegetation changes. Disturbance by mowing impacted resource‐use strategy and indirectly influenced flowering phenology by limiting plant investment into resource conservation in aerial parts. Community‐level relationship between resource‐use strategy and flowering phenology suggests a consistent trade‐off between vegetative growth and flowering phenology among plant species within communities. Our findings help to understand how recurrent disturbances can influence successional trajectories in mediterranean ecosystems.
Teachers' perceptions of digital badges as recognition of professional development
Authors: Jones W. Monty , Hope Samantha , Adams Brianne
Published: March 2017

This mixed methods study examined teachers' perceptions and uses of digital badges received as recognition of participation in a professional development program. Quantitative and qualitative survey data was collected from 99 K‐12 teachers who were awarded digital badges in Spring 2016. In addition, qualitative data was collected through semi‐structured interviews with a smaller sample. An analysis of the data suggests that teachers had a favorable view of receiving digital badges and many shared their badges through digital media. This paper also describes how the digital badges were shared, the impact digital badges may have on teachers' choices for professional development, and teachers' perspectives on current and future uses of digital badges.
Forest cover, hunting pressure, and fruit availability influence seed dispersal in a forest‐savanna mosaic in the Congo Basin
Authors: Trolliet Franck , Forget Pierre‐Michel , Huynen Marie‐Claude , Hambuckers Alain
Published: March 2017

Forest fragmentation, reduced forest cover, and hunting pressure are the main threats affecting animal‐mediated seed dispersal. However, their combined effects on seed dispersal rates have been simultaneously investigated only rarely, and never in Africa. We aimed to disentangle the effects of forest cover, hunting pressure, frugivore abundance, and fruit availability at the local and landscape scales on the seed dispersal rates of Staudtia kamerunensis (Myristicaceae). To estimate the percentages of seed dispersal failure (undispersed seeds), we quantitated fruit remains below fruiting trees distributed across five contrasting sites in a semi‐natural forest‐savanna mosaic in the Democratic Republic of Congo. We used statistical analyses accounting for spatial autocorrelation and found that forest cover in the surrounding landscape, hunting level, the associated abundance of dispersers, and fruit availability all had significant effects on the percentage of seed dispersal failure. The combination of high fruit availability and reduced abundance of seed dispersers could accelerate seed disperser satiation, causing the seed dispersal system to be saturated. Our study highlights how two major factors associated with anthropogenic activities, forest cover and hunting, affect seed dispersal by animals. These findings could have far‐reaching implications for our understanding of tree‐frugivore interactions and the conservation of tropical communities.
Resource availability and roosting ecology shape reproductive phenology of rain forest insectivorous bats
Authors: Nurul‐Ain Elias , Rosli Hashim , Kingston Tigga
Published: March 2017

Bats in temperate and subtropical regions typically synchronize birth of a single young with peaks in resource availability driven by local climate patterns. In tropical rain forest, insects are available throughout the year, potentially allowing departures from seasonal monoestry. However, reproductive energy budgets may be constrained by the cost of commuting to foraging grounds from distant roosts. To test these hypotheses, we simultaneously tracked female reproductive activity of 11 insectivorous bat species, insect biomass, and local weather variables for 20 months in a Malaysian rain forest. Five species roost in forest structures and hence have low commuting costs, whereas six species depend on caves, which are limited in the landscape, and are presumed to incur higher commuting costs to foraging sites. Monthly insect biomass was positively correlated with monthly rainfall, and there was a significant relationship between insect biomass and lactation in cave‐roosting but not forest‐roosting species. Cave‐roosting species were seasonally monoestrus, with parturition confined to a two‐month period, whereas in forest‐roosting species, pregnancy and lactation were recorded throughout the year. Our results suggest that the energetic costs of commuting from roosts to foraging grounds shape annual reproductive patterns in tropical rain forest insectivorous bats. Ongoing changes in forest landscapes are likely to increase these costs for cave‐roosting bats, further restricting reproductive opportunities. Climate change is projected to influence the timing of rainfall events in many tropical habitats, which may disrupt relationships between rainfall, insect biomass, and bat reproductive timing, further compromising reproductive success.
Species‐habitat relationships and ecological correlates of butterfly abundance in a transformed tropical landscape
Authors: Jain Anuj , Lim Felix K. S. , Webb Edward L.
Published: March 2017

Tropical butterfly conservation strategies often focus on total and/or common species richness to assess the conservation value of a patch or habitat. However, such a strategy overlooks the unique dynamics of rare species. We evaluated the species‐habitat relationships of 209 common, intermediate, and rare butterfly species (including morphospecies) across four habitat types (mature, degraded, or fragmented forest, and urban parks) and two patch sizes (<400 ha, ≥400 ha) in Singapore. Common species richness was consistent across habitat types. Intermediate species richness declined by more than 50 percent in urban parks (relative to all forest habitats), and rare species richness was reduced by 50 percent in degraded and fragmented forest and by 90 percent in urban parks (relative to mature forest). Large patches had comparable overall richness to small patches, but they supported more rare species and three times as many habitat‐restricted species over a similar area. Importantly, a number of rare species were confined to single small patches. Mixed‐effects regression models were constructed to identify habitat and ecological/life history variables associated with butterfly abundance. These models revealed that species with greater habitat specialization, rare larval host plants, few larval host plant genera, and narrow global geographic ranges were more likely to be rare species. Overall, these results demonstrate that the richness of habitat‐restricted and rare species do not follow the same spatial distribution patterns as common species. Therefore, while conserving mature forests is key, effective butterfly conservation in a transformed landscape should take into account rare and habitat‐restricted species.
Synthesis, in vitro evaluation, and 68Ga‐radiolabeling of CDP1 toward PET/CT imaging of bacterial infection
Authors: Dutta Jyotibon , Baijnath Sooraj , Somboro Anou M. , Nagiah Savania , Albericio Fernando , de la Torre Beatriz G. , Marjanovic‐Painter Biljana , Zeevaart Jan Rijn , Sathekge Mike , Kruger Hendrik G. , Chuturgoon Anil , Naicker Tricia , Ebenhan Thomas , Govender Thavendran
Published: March 2017

Bacterial infections are a major concern in the human health sector due to poor diagnosis and development of multidrug‐resistant strains. PET/CT provides a means for the non‐invasive detection and localization of the infectious foci; however, the radiotracers available are either cumbersome to prepare or their exact contribution toward the imaging is not yet established. Human antimicrobial peptides are of interest for development as PET radiotracers as they are an integral component of the immune system, non‐immunogenic toward the recipient, and show selectivity toward pathogens such as bacteria. Herein we report on the potential of LL37, a human cathelicidin antimicrobial peptide, as a radiotracer for bacterial imaging. Bifunctional chelator 1,4,7‐triazacyclononane,1‐glutaric acid‐4,7‐acetic acid was utilized to functionalize the antimicrobial peptide, which in turn was capable of chelating gallium. The synthesized natGa‐CDP1 showed bacterial selectivity and low affinity toward hepatic cells, which are favorable characteristics for further preclinical application.
Design, synthesis, biological evaluation, and molecular docking of novel flavones as H3R inhibitors
Authors: Wen Gang , Liu Qian , Hu Huabin , Wang Dongmei , Wu Song
Published: March 2017

A series of novel flavone derivatives were designed, synthesized, and evaluated for their H3R inhibitory activity. The results showed that four compounds exhibited significant anti‐H3R activity. Molecular docking experiments indicated that a salt bridge, hydrogen‐bonding, and hydrophobic interactions all contributed to interactions between inhibitors and H3R.