bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developers’ heterogeneity and real estate development timing options
Authors: Dong Zhi , Sing Tien Foo
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine developers’ optimal development timing when developers are heterogeneous and have different marginal costs in a real estate development market.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a multiple-player game theoretic real option model and provides tractable results of asymmetric development strategies from a two-stochastic-variable model. Anecdotal evidence and market observations are presented.

Findings

Stronger developers (with low marginal costs) exercise real estate development options earlier than weaker developers (with high marginal costs). However, the interval time between developments by stronger and weaker developers decreases in rental volatilities. Real estate with a high positive externality are developed earlier than real estate with a low or negative externality.

Practical implications

Weaker and smaller developers are advised to undertake projects having positive externalities from vicinities. Government agencies are recommended to use tools of zoning and urban planning to prioritise developments introducing positive externalities and to facilitate the growth of weaker and smaller developers. This may subsequently help reduce incentive for land banking and oversupply in real estate space market.

Originality/value

This research is probably the first to explicitly incorporate developers’ heterogeneous strength in real estate development timing options with multiple developers in a competitive market. It sheds additional insights into the understanding of potential problems of development cascades, under the interactive effects between exogenous policy changes and endogenous response from asymmetric developers.
eStout: a digital learning environment program case study
Authors: Stoeklen Phillip , Sullivan Justin J. , Miller M. Justin , Drzakowski Meridith , King Sasha
Published: July 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to discuss the evolution of a digital learning environment in higher education as a result of ongoing data collection and evaluation.

Design/methodology/approach

The manuscript is based on a digital learning environment intervention at the University of Wisconsin-Stout and is informed by evaluation data collected from student and faculty surveys annually between 2002 and 2016. Survey themes changed annually based on student/faculty concerns and interests, and program management used this feedback to make modifications to program scope and offerings.

Findings

The digital learning environment at the University of Wisconsin-Stout has been effective in providing faculty and students with the tools they need to be successful. This success is largely due to the ongoing commitment to data collection and evaluation at the University of Wisconsin-Stout and has ensured that the digital learning environment stays modern and adaptive.

Originality/value

This manuscript is the culmination of 15 years of ongoing evaluation practice and thus provides valuable best practices and lessons learned for educators/educational institutions hoping to improve or create their own digital learning environment.
Research framework for the impact of total quality management on competitive advantage
Authors: Nguyen Van Cang , Chau Ngoc Tuan
Published: July 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to apply a more accurate competitive advantage construct to study the impact of total quality management on firms’ competitive advantage in the context of the weakening of the competitive advantage of firms that are renowned for the excellent quality management. It also aims to find a better explanation for the source of competitive advantage through mediating constructs.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use iterative methodology by reviewing, analyzing, synthesizing and refining the current state of the literature and propose a research framework which allows for overcoming the limitation encountered in previous empirical research.

Findings

The use of two second-order constructs including the incremental innovation performance and radical innovation performance which enable the researchers to have a better explanation about the mediating role of innovation performance.

Practical implications

This study is seeking to contribute to the practice of total quality management area of research. Specifically, this study applies two second-order measurement scales of innovation in use, actualize the use of the new measurement scale of competitive advantage and explain clearly the role of total quality management on competitive advantage in the current context.

Originality/value

This is one of the few papers investigating the impact of total quality management on competitive advantage, developing the conceptual model that examines the mediating role of innovation performance.
Parenting advice for intercultural couples: a systemic perspective
Authors: Bhugun Dharam
Published: July 2017

This article presents advice for intercultural parents, based on findings of a qualitative study that examined how intercultural parents negotiated their cultural differences. Semi‐structured in‐depth interviews were conducted with fourteen intercultural heterosexual couples/parents in South East Queensland. Thematic analysis was used to analyse data and understand the meanings of participants’ experiences. The findings revealed that not only aspects of cultural background, but also systemic and contextual factors impacted on the experiences of intercultural parents. Advice for intercultural parents is described from three systemic perspectives: the individual sphere, the couple/parent sphere and the child's sphere. Practical implications for therapists and counsellors working with intercultural parents are discussed.

Practitioner points

Find value in cultural differences and similarities in parenting style to form a balanced view

Explore benefits and opportunities of intercultural parenting as source of strength

Use culture as a valuable source for change

Assume the role of mediator and interpreter when dealing with conflicts in cultural code

Practice cultural sensitivity and reflexivity

Conflict may be due to processes other than culture, such as emotional processes. Explore power dynamics in parenting
Effects of eupatilin on the contractility of corpus cavernosal smooth muscle through nitric oxide‐independent pathways
Authors: Choo S. H. , Lee S. W. , Chae M. R. , Kang S. J. , Sung H. H. , Han D. H. , Chun J. N. , Park J. K. , Kim C. Y. , Kim H. K. , So I.
Published: July 2017

Eupatilin (5,7‐dihydroxy‐3,4,6‐trimethoxyflavone) is one of the main compounds present in Artemisia species. Eupatilin has both antioxidative and anti‐inflammatory properties and a relaxation effect on vascular contraction regardless of endothelial function. We evaluated the relaxant effects of eupatilin on the corpus cavernosum (CC) of rabbits and the underlying mechanisms of its activity in human corpus cavernosum smooth muscle (CCSM) cells. Isolated rabbit CC strips were mounted in an organ bath system. A conventional whole‐cell patch clamp technique was used to measure activation of calcium‐sensitive K+‐channel currents in human CCSM cells. The relaxation effect of eupatilin was evaluated by cumulative addition (10−5 m ~ 3 × 10−4 m) to CC strips precontracted with 10−5 m phenylephrine. Western blotting analysis was performed to measure myosin phosphatase targeting subunit 1 (MYPT1) and protein kinase C‐potentiated inhibitory protein for heterotrimeric myosin light chain phosphatase of 17‐kDa (CPI‐17) expression and to evaluate the effect of eupatilin on the RhoA/Rho‐kinase pathway. Eupatilin effectively relaxed the phenylephrine‐induced tone in the rabbit CC strips in a concentration‐dependent manner with an estimated EC50 value of 1.2 ± 1.6 × 10−4 m (n = 8, p < 0.05). Iberiotoxin and tetraethylammonium significantly reduced the relaxation effect (n = 8, p < 0.001 and p = 0.003, respectively). Removal of the endothelium or the presence of L‐NAME or indomethacin did not affect the relaxation effect of eupatilin. In CCSM cells, the extracellular application of eupatilin 10−4 m significantly increased the outward currents, and the eupatilin‐stimulated currents were significantly attenuated by treatment with 10−7 m iberiotoxin (n = 13, p < 0.05). Eupatilin reduced the phosphorylation level of MYPT1 at Thr853 of MLCP and CPI‐17 at Thr38. Eupatilin‐induced relaxation of the CCSM cells via NO‐independent pathways. The relaxation effects of eupatilin on CCSM cells were partially due to activation of BKCa channels and inhibition of RhoA/Rho‐kinase.
The Intricate Process of Psychoanalytic Research: Encountering the Intersubjective Experience of the Researcher–Participant Relationship
Authors: Harvey Clare
Published: July 2017

Qualitative research in general and the psychoanalytically informed research interview method specifically, can be emotionally demanding on researchers as they form relationships with participants. This is especially the case when researchers and participants share particular identities and experiences. In this paper I reflect on my experience of interviewing mothers raising children with a visible physical disability about their maternal subjectivity. At times this was an emotionally demanding and ethically challenging process as participants closely identified with certain aspects of my identity, particularly with my visible physical disability and motherhood peculiarities. Often participants unexpectedly reversed our roles, asking me intimate questions. I will deliberate these dilemmas using interview material. I argue for a mindful blurring with participants when this occurs. Using certain psychoanalytic‐researcher concepts of intersubjectivity, transference–countertransference and psychoanalytic‐researcher thirdness helped me successfully navigate these encounters. I will also explore the rich participant psychic functioning that was generated from this intersubjective relationship between myself and the participants.
Implementation rates of uro‐oncology multidisciplinary meeting decisions
Authors: Kinnear Ned , Smith Riley , Hennessey Derek B. , Bolton Damien , Sengupta Shomik
Published: July 2017

Objectives

To assess implementation rates of the consensus plans made at the uro‐oncology multidisciplinary meeting (MDM) of an Australian tertiary centre, and analyse obstacles to implementation.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed of all patients discussed at the uro‐oncology MDM at our institution between 1 January and 30 June 2015. Rates of referral for MDM discussion after a new histological diagnosis of malignancy, categorised by tumour type, were assessed. Patient records were interrogated to confirm MDM plan implementation, with the outcomes examined being completion of MDM plan within 3 months and factors preventing implementation.

Results

During the enrolment period, from 291 uro‐oncological procedures, 240 yielded malignant histology of which 160 (67%) were discussed at the MDM. Overall, 202 patients, including 32 females, were discussed at the uro‐oncology MDM. MDM consensus plans were implemented in 184 (91.1%) patients. Reasons for deviation from the MDM plan included delay in care, patient deterioration or comorbidities, patient preference, consultant decision, loss to follow‐up, and change in patient scenario due to additional new information.

Conclusion

The MDM is increasingly important in the care of uro‐oncology patients, with about two‐thirds of new diagnoses currently captured. There appear to be few barriers to the implementation of consensus plans, with nearly all patients undergoing the recommended management.
Montelukast reduces inhaled chlorine triggered airway hyperresponsiveness and airway inflammation in the mouse
Authors: Hamamoto Yoichiro , Ano Satoshi , Allard Benoit , O'Sullivan Michael , McGovern Toby K , Martin James G
Published: July 2017

Background and Purpose

Cysteinyl leukotrienes (CysLTs) are pro‐inflammatory lipid mediators that exacerbate disease state in several asthma phenotypes including asthma induced by allergen, virus and exercise. However, the role of CysLTs in irritant‐induced airway disease is not well characterized. The purpose of the current study was to investigate the effect of montelukast, a CysLT1 receptor antagonist, on parameters of irritant‐induced asthma induced by inhalation of chlorine in the mouse.

Experimental Approach

BALB/c mice were exposed to chlorine in air (100 ppm, for 5 min). Montelukast (3 mg·kg−1) or the vehicle (1% methylcellulose) was administered 24 and 1 h prior to chlorine exposure and 1 h prior to outcome measurements. Twenty‐four hours after exposure, responses to inhaled aerosolized methacholine, cell composition and an array of cytokines/chemokines in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid were measured. Neutralizing antibodies against IL‐6 and VEGF were administered prior to exposures.

Key Results

Montelukast reduced chlorine ‐induced airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) to methacholine in the peripheral lung compartment as estimated from dynamic elastance, but not in large conducting airways. Montelukast treatment attenuated chlorine‐induced macrophage influx, neutrophilia and eosinophilia in BAL fluid. Chlorine exposure increased VEGF, IL‐6, the chemokines KC and CCL3 in BAL fluid. Montelukast treatment prevented chlorine‐induced increases in VEGF and IL‐6. Anti‐IL‐6 antibody inhibited chlorine‐induced neutrophilia and reduced AHR.

Conclusions and Implications

Pre‐treatment with montelukast attenuated chlorine‐induced neutrophilia and AHR in mice. These effects are mediated, in part, via IL‐6.
Enhancement of mTOR signaling contributes to acquired X‐ray and C‐ion resistance in mouse squamous carcinoma cell line
Authors: Sato Katsutoshi , Azuma Rikako , Imai Takashi , Shimokawa Takashi
Published: July 2017

Our aim was to evaluate whether repetition of C‐ion (carbon ion beam) irradiation induces radioresistance as well as repeated X‐ray irradiation in cancer cell lines, and to find the key molecular pathway for radioresistance by comparing radioresistant cancer cells with their parental cells. A mouse squamous cell carcinoma cell line, NR‐S1, and radioresistant cancer cells, NR‐S1‐C30 (C30) and NR‐S1‐X60 (X60), established by repetition of C‐ion and X‐ray irradiation, respectively, were used. X‐ray and C‐ion sensitivity, changes in lysosome, mitochondria, intracellular ATP and reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, and mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling were evaluated. Moreover, the effect of rapamycin on radioresistance was also assessed. X‐ray and C‐ion resistance of C30 cells was moderate, and the resistance of X60 cells was the highest in this study. In X60 cells, the amount of lysosome, mitochondria, intracellular ATP and ROS level were significantly increased, and mTOR and p70S6K (ribosomal protein S6 kinase p70) phosphorylation were enhanced compared with C30 and NR‐S1 cells. The inhibition of mTOR signaling was effective for X‐ray and C‐ion radiosensitization in both cell lines, especially in X60 cells in which X‐ray and C‐ion resistance was decreased to the same level as that in NR‐S1 cells. Our results indicated that the contribution to generate X‐ray and C‐ion resistance was less for repeated C‐ion irradiations compared with repeated X‐ray irradiation. Moreover, we found that activated mTOR signaling contributes to X‐ray and C‐ion resistance in the X60 cancer cells.
Peer support for families of children with complex needs: Development and dissemination of a best practice toolkit
Authors: Schippke J. , Provvidenza C. , Kingsnorth S.
Published: July 2017

Background

Benefits of peer support interventions for families of children with disabilities and complex medical needs have been described in the literature. An opportunity to create an evidence‐informed resource to synthesize best practices in peer support for program providers was identified. The objective of this paper is to describe the key activities used to develop and disseminate the Peer Support Best Practice Toolkit.

Methods

This project was led by a team of knowledge translation experts at a large pediatric rehabilitation hospital using a knowledge exchange framework. An integrated knowledge translation approach was used to engage stakeholders in the development process through focus groups and a working group. To capture best practices in peer support, a rapid evidence review and review of related resources were completed. Case studies were also included to showcase practice‐based evidence.

Results

The toolkit is freely available online for download and is structured into four sections: (a) background and models of peer support, (b) case studies of programs, (c) resources, and (d) rapid evidence review. A communications plan was developed to disseminate the resource and generate awareness through presentations, social media, and champion engagement. Eight months postlaunch, the peer support website received more than 2,400 webpage hits. Early indicators suggest high relevance of this resource among stakeholders.

Conclusions

The toolkit format was valuable to synthesize and share best practices in peer support. Strengths of the work include the integrated approach used to develop the toolkit and the inclusion of both the published research literature and experiential evidence.
Impact of prenatal immune challenge on the demyelination injury during adulthood
Authors: Mouihate Abdeslam , Al‐Hashash Hessah , Rakhshani‐Moghadam Sarah , Kalakh Samah
Published: July 2017

Aim

Brain inflammation is associated with several brain diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS), a disease characterized by demyelination. Whether prenatal immune challenge affects demyelination‐induced inflammation in the white matter during adulthood is unclear. In the present study, we used a well‐established experimental model of focal demyelination to assess whether prenatal immune challenge affects demyelination‐induced inflammation.

Methods

Pregnant rats were injected with either lipopolysaccharide (100 μg/kg, ip) or pyrogen‐free saline. A 2 μL solution of the gliotoxin ethidium bromide (0.04%) was stereotaxically infused into the corpus callosum of adult male offspring. The extent of demyelination lesion was assessed using Luxol fast blue (LFB) staining. Oligodendrocyte precursor cells, mature oligodendrocytes, markers of cellular gliosis, and inflammation were monitored in the vicinity of the demyelination lesion area.

Results

Prenatal lipopolysaccharide reduced the size of the demyelination lesion during adulthood. This reduced lesion was associated with enhanced density of mature oligodendrocytes and reduced density of microglial cells in the vicinity of the demyelination lesion. Such reduction in microglial cell density was accompanied by a reduced activation of the nuclear factor κB signaling pathway.

Conclusion

These data strongly suggest that prenatal immune challenge dampens the extent of demyelination during adulthood likely by reprogramming the local brain inflammatory response to demyelinating insults.
BANK COMPETITION AND FINANCIAL STABILITY: LIQUIDITY RISK PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Kim Jeongsim
Published: July 2017

We study whether competition affects banks' liquidity risk‐taking, which was at the heart of the 2008 financial crisis. We find that banks with greater market power take more liquidity risk, implying that decreased competition leads to financial fragility. During a financial crisis, however, the effect of market power on liquidity risk varies across bank size. Small banks with greater market power reduce liquidity risk while large banks with greater market power do not change their liquidity risk‐taking behavior. This suggests that enhanced charter values due to reduced competition lowers small banks' risk‐shifting incentives when their default risk significantly increases during a crisis. (JELG21, G28)
A review of the effects of colour and light on non‐image function in humans
Authors: Westland Stephen , Pan Qianqian , Lee SooJin
Published: July 2017

This paper reviews current knowledge on non‐image‐forming aspects of vision. Developments in the last 20 years have included the discovery of a fifth class of human visual pigment (melanopsin), in addition to the three classes of photopsin to be found in the cones and rhodopsin in the rods in the human retina. Melanopsin is found in a small number of retinal ganglion cells which then, in addition to receiving input from rods and cones, are intrinsically photosensitive. These retinal ganglion cells send their input primarily to the hypothalamus, where they help to regulate the circadian system (daily rhythms of sleep patterns, body temperature, heart rate, etc.). The discovery of the anatomical basis of non‐image‐forming vision has led to a great deal of research into the effects of light on sleep, depression and mood, retinal photodamage and well‐being, amongst other factors. Given that recent technological innovations in LED lighting now give us greater control over environmental lighting, it is timely to review the non‐visual effects of light in humans in order to inform lighting design in the future.
Local Governments' Fiscal Pressure and the Dependence on Polluting Industries in China
Authors: Wang Ruoyu , Zhang Qi
Published: July 2017

Using a large, unique county‐level panel dataset for China from 1998 to 2006, this paper investigates the relationship between local governments' fiscal pressure and their preference for developing polluting industries. The results show that there exist fiscal pressure effects; namely, a positive link between the fiscal pressure faced by a county and its industrial tax dependence on polluting industries. We also investigate the heterogeneity of the fiscal pressure effects and find that fiscal pressure effects are significant only when local fiscal pressure is sufficiently high up to a certain point, and when there are more earmarked transfers. In contrast to the situation in east China, fiscal pressure effects in central and west China are more pronounced. Therefore, when dealing with environmental problems, policy‐makers need to take local governments' fiscal conditions into account.
Antipsychotic treatment is associated with inflammatory and metabolic biomarkers alterations among first‐episode psychosis patients: A 7‐month follow‐up study
Authors: Balõtšev Roman , Haring Liina , Koido Kati , Leping Vambola , Kriisa Kärt , Zilmer Mihkel , Vasar Veiko , Piir Anneli , Lang Aavo , Vasar Eero
Published: July 2017

Aim

Second‐generation antipsychotics are commonly used to treat schizophrenia, but may cause metabolic syndrome (MetS) in a subset of patients. The mechanisms of antipsychotic‐related metabolic changes remain to be established, especially in first‐episode psychosis (FEP) patients.

Methods

In the present study, we used a chip technology to measure metabolic (C‐peptide, insulin, leptin, adiponectin and resistin) and inflammatory biomarkers (ferritin, interleukin‐6, interleukin‐1α, tumour necrosis factor‐α and plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1) in the serum samples of a population of FEP patients before and after 7 months of antipsychotic drug treatment, compared to control subjects (CS).

Results

The comparison of these markers in antipsychotic‐naïve FEP patients (N = 38) and CS (N = 37) revealed significantly higher levels of ferritin (P = .004), and resistin (P = .03) and lower level of leptin (P = .03) among FEP patients group. Seven months of antipsychotic drug treatment in patients (N = 36) ameliorated clinical symptoms, but increased significantly body mass index (BMI; P = .002) and these changes were accompanied by increased levels of C‐peptide (P = .03) and leptin (P = .02), as well as decreased level of adiponectin (P = .01).

Conclusions

Seven months of antipsychotic drug treatment suppressed the clinical symptoms of psychosis whereas caused imbalance in metabolic biomarkers and increased BMI. These findings provide insight into antipsychotic‐induced MetS and refer to problems in insulin processing already present in the early stage of the chronic psychotic disorder.
Low density lipopolyprotein inhibits flavivirus acquisition in Aedes aegypti
Authors: Wagar Z. L. , Tree M. O. , Mpoy M. C. , Conway M. J.
Published: July 2017

Aedes aegypti is the primary vector of a number of human pathogens including dengue virus (DENV) and Zika virus (ZIKV). Ae. aegypti acquires these viruses during the processing of bloodmeals obtained from an infected vertebrate host. Vertebrate blood contains a number of factors that have the potential to modify virus acquisition in the mosquito. Interestingly, low density lipopolyprotein (LDL) levels are decreased during severe DENV infection. Accordingly, we hypothesized that LDL is a modifiable factor that can influence flavivirus acquisition in the mosquito. We found that LDL is endocytosed by Ae. aegypti cells in a dynamin‐dependent manner. LDL is also endocytosed by midgut epithelial cells and accumulates at the luminal midgut epithelium during bloodmeal digestion. Importantly, pretreatment with LDL, but not high density lipopolyprotein (HDL), significantly inhibited both DENV and ZIKV infection in vitro, and LDL inhibited ZIKV infection in vivo. This study identifies human LDL or ‘bad cholesterol’ as a modifiable factor that can inhibit flavivirus acquisition in Ae. aegypti. Identification of modifiable blood factors and critical cellular interactions that mediate pathogen acquisition may lead to novel strategies to disrupt the transmission cycle of vector‐borne diseases.
Benefits of Attending a Weekend Childhood Cancer Survivor Family Retreat
Authors: Bashore Lisa , Bender Joyce
Published: July 2017

Purpose

To explore the long‐term benefits to families of childhood cancer survivors who attended a weekend childhood cancer survivor family retreat.

Design

Descriptive‐qualitative study including families who had attended the weekend retreat at least once but not in the past 12 months, and who attend a large pediatric hematology and oncology cancer survivorship program in Texas.

Methods

A semistructured interview guide was used during three audio‐taped focus groups to explore the benefits of having attended a weekend retreat. Descriptive qualitative analysis was used to analyze the focus groups’ transcripts.

Findings

Seven families participated in the focus groups, and the themes identified were reconnecting (with others or family), putting life in perspective, and changing outlook on life.

Conclusions

Retreats offer families of cancer survivors opportunities to reconnect with others and their own family members in a therapeutic environment. These reconnections in a therapeutic environment enriched the families’ positive outlooks on life and changed their perspectives.

Clinical Relevance

Families of childhood cancer survivors report a lack of support following the completion of therapy. Retreats in a nonclinical therapeutic setting optimize family‐perceived support, relationship building, and reconnecting survivor families.
The Changing Terrain of Rural Contention in Brazil: Institutionalization and Identity Development in the Landless Movement's Educational Project
Authors: Pahnke Anthony
Published: July 2017

Studies of the Brazilian Landless Movement, particularly the MST (Movimento dos Trabalhadores Rurais Sem Terra, Landless Rural Workers' Movement), note two periods of collective action: the time when tactics such as land occupations are deployed to acquire land (luta pela terra) and subsequent mobilizations to develop territory (luta na terra). The latter period, which includes fostering educational opportunities and coordinating economic production, features prolonged interaction with government authorities. Instead of demobilizing during institutionalization, this study argues, postoccupation practices are as contentious as seizing territory. This is apparent in the movement's efforts to influence public policies that lead to the creation of schools where a contentious, movement-centered identity develops. Documenting the movement's efforts in education provides a way to understand how the current moment in rural contention in Brazil—called by some the time toacumular forças(accumulate forces)—remains collective and political instead of indicating movement decline.
Relative exchangeable copper: A valuable tool for the diagnosis of Wilson disease
Authors: Guillaud Olivier , Brunet Anne‐Sophie , Mallet Isabelle , Dumortier Jérôme , Pelosse Martine , Heissat Sophie , Rivet Christine , Lachaux Alain , Bost Muriel
Published: July 2017

Background & Aims

Measuring of the relative exchangeable copper seems to be a promising tool for the diagnosis of Wilson disease. The aim of our study is to determine the performance of REC for the diagnosis of Wilson disease in a population of patients with chronic liver diseases.

Methods

Measuring of exchangeable serum copper levels and relative exchangeable copper was performed in a group of Wilson disease patients at diagnosis or at clinical deterioration because of non‐compliance (group 1, n=9), a group of stable WD patients (group 2, n=40), and two groups of patients (adult and paediatric) followed for non‐Wilsonian liver diseases (group 3, n=103 and group 4, n=49 respectively).

Results

Exchangeable serum copper (N: 0.6‐1.1 μmol/L) was significantly higher in group 1 (mean 2.2±0.7 μmol/L) compared to the other three groups: group 2=0.9±0.4 μmol/L, group 3=1.2±0.4 μmol/L, group 4=1.1±0.3 μmol/L (P<0.05). Relative exchangeable copper was significantly higher in Wilson disease patients group 1 and 2 (mean 52.6% and 43.8%) compared to patients suffering from other liver diseases (mean 7.1% and 5.9%) (P<0.05).

Conclusions

Our study confirms that the determination of relative exchangeable copper is a highly valuable tool for the diagnosis of Wilson disease.
Eco‐physiological potential of jack pine (Pinus banksiana) for assisted northward migration: interactions among photoperiod, [CO2] and moisture stress
Authors: Newaz Shah , Dang Qing‐Lai , Man Rongzhou
Published: July 2017

Climate change will cause northward shifts of climate envelopes for boreal plants, however, the different photoperiod and soil moisture regimes at higher latitudes will likely influence the success of species migrations (natural and assisted). The objective of this study was to assess the effects of photoperiod regime and its interactions with soil moisture and carbon dioxide concentration ([CO2]) on the morpho‐physiological processes in jack pinePinus banksiana. One‐year old seedlings were exposed to two [CO2] (400 and 950 μmol mol–1), two soil moistures (60–70% and 30–40% of field water capacity) and three photoperiod regimes (photoperiods at seed origin, 5° and 10° north of the seed origin) in environment controlled greenhouses. The impacts of photoperiod, soil moisture and elevated [CO2] on growth and physiological processes in the seedlings were examined. The results suggest that the response of jack pine to climate change will be complex under the interactive effects of northward migration associated longer photoperiod, soil moisture stress and elevated [CO2]. The longer photoperiod associated with higher latitudes under elevated [CO2] significantly advanced the budburst at both high and low soil moisture regimes, which may likely increase the risk of late spring frosts damage prior to and during budburst. The interactive effects of longer photoperiod and low soil moisture significantly increased the water use efficiency under elevated [CO2]. However, the significant 2‐ and 3‐way interactions suggest that drought and longer photoperiods with northward migration will limit the positive effects of elevated [CO2] on growth and physiological processes in the species. These results might have important implications in assisted migration/seed transfer of the species following climate change.
Resilience is decreased in irritable bowel syndrome and associated with symptoms and cortisol response
Authors: Park S. H. , Naliboff B. D. , Shih W. , Presson A. P. , Videlock E. J. , Ju T. , Kilpatrick L. , Gupta A. , Mayer E. A. , Chang L.
Published: July 2017

Background

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a stress‐sensitive disorder associated with early adverse life events (EALs) and a dysregulated hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) axis. Resilience is the ability to recover and adapt positively to stress but has not been well studied in IBS. The aims of this study are to compare resilience in IBS and healthy controls (HCs) and to assess its relationships with IBS symptom severity, quality of life (QOL), EALs, and HPA axis response.

Methods

Two hundred fifty‐six subjects (154 IBS, 102 HCs) completed questionnaires for resilience (Connor‐Davidson Resilience Scale [CD‐RISC] and Brief Resilience Scale [BRS]), IBS symptoms, IBS‐QOL, and EALs. Ninety‐six of these subjects had serial serum adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol levels to exogenous corticotrophin‐releasing hormone (CRH) and ACTH measured. The relationship between IBS status, resilience, and other variables of interest was assessed by regression analysis after adjusting for demographics and neuroticism, a predictor of resilience.

Key Results

Resilience was significantly lower in IBS compared to HCs (CD‐RISC: 72.16±14.97 vs 77.32±12.73, P=.003; BRS: 3.29±0.87 vs 3.93±0.69, P<.001); however, only BRS was significant after controlling for neuroticism (P=.001). Lower BRS scores were associated with greater IBS symptom severity (P=.002), poorer IBS‐QOL (P<.001), and a higher number of EALs (P=.01). There was a significant interaction between BRS resilience and IBS status for ACTH‐stimulated cortisol response (P=.031); more resilient IBS subjects had lower cortisol response, and more resilient HCs had higher cortisol response.

Conclusions and Inferences

Lower resilience is associated with IBS status, worse IBS symptom severity, lower IBS‐QOL, greater EALs, and stress hyperresponsiveness.
Genomewide identification of genes involved in the potato response to drought indicates functional evolutionary conservation with Arabidopsis plants
Authors: Pieczynski Marcin , Wyrzykowska Anna , Milanowska Kaja , Boguszewska‐Mankowska Dominika , Zagdanska Barbara , Karlowski Wojciech , Jarmolowski Artur , Szweykowska‐Kulinska Zofia
Published: July 2017

Potato is one of the four most important food crop plants worldwide and is strongly affected by drought. The following two pairs of potato cultivars, which are related in ancestry but show different drought tolerances, were chosen for comparative gene expression studies: Gwiazda/Oberon and Tajfun/Owacja. Comparative RNA‐seq analyses of gene expression differences in the transcriptomes obtained from drought‐tolerant versus drought‐sensitive plants during water shortage conditions were performed. The 23 top‐ranking genes were selected, 22 of which are described here as novel potato drought‐responsive genes. Moreover, all but one of the potato genes selected have homologues in the Arabidopsis genome. Of the seven tested A. thaliana mutants with altered expression of the selected homologous genes, compared to the wild‐type Arabidopsis plants, six showed an improved tolerance to drought. These genes encode carbohydrate transporter, mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase kinase 15 (MAPKKK15), serine carboxypeptidase‐like 19 protein (SCPL19), armadillo/beta‐catenin‐like repeat‐containing protein, high‐affinity nitrate transporter 2.7 and nonspecific lipid transfer protein type 2 (nsLPT). The evolutionary conservation of the functions of the selected genes in the plant response to drought confirms the importance of these identified potato genes in the ability of plants to cope with water shortage conditions. Knowledge regarding these gene functions can be used to generate potato cultivars that are resistant to unfavourable conditions. The approach used in this work and the obtained results allowed for the identification of new players in the plant response to drought.
On Reinstating “Part I” and “Part II” to Wittgenstein's Philosophical Investigations
Authors: Knott Hugh A.
Published: July 2017

The Editors’ Preface to the fourth edition of Wittgenstein's Philosophical Investigations is disparaging of the earlier editorial efforts of G. E. M. Anscombe and Rush Rhees and in particular of their inclusion and titling of the material in “Part II”. I argue, on both historical and philosophical grounds, that the Editors have failed to refute the editorial decisions of Rhees and Anscombe – a failure born both of a neglect of the historical circumstances and Wittgenstein's own expressed hopes and intentions for his writings, and of a myopic understanding of his philosophy. Wittgenstein's legacy has not been well served by their interventions, which should be undone in future editions.
Clinoform identification and correlation in fine‐grained sediments: A case study using the Triassic Montney Formation
Authors: Playter Tiffany , Corlett Hilary , Konhauser Kurt , Robbins Leslie , Rohais SÉbastien , Crombez Vincent , Maccormack Kelsey , Rokosh Dean , Prenoslo Donald , Furlong Carolyn M. , Pawlowicz John , Gingras Murray , Lalonde Stefan , Lyster SteveN , Zonneveld John‐Paul
Published: July 2017

Stratigraphic correlation of fine‐grained successions is not always straightforward. Complicating factors, such as unconformities, structural complexity, subsidence and especially minimal grain‐size variation, make the application of traditional correlation methods to fine‐grained successions problematic. Alternatively, the analysis of detailed geochemical data can allow for the determination of variations in sediment provenance, mineralogy, detrital flux and hydrothermal input. When compared with modelled clay input over time, these geochemical indicators can be used to determine changes in relative sea‐level and palaeoclimate, allowing for the identification of clinoform surfaces. As an example, this study outlines detailed correlations of chemostratigraphic packages within the lower Triassic Montney Formation in Western Canada to demonstrate the effectiveness of chemostratigraphy in defining and correlating fine‐grained clinoforms across a sedimentary basin. The data set used includes five wells and one outcrop succession, from which geochemical profiles were generated and tied directly to mineralogical data and well logs. These analyses reveal 13 distinct chemostratigraphic packages that correlate across the basin. Observed elemental and inferred mineralogical changes highlight trends in relative sea‐level and palaeoclimate, as well as episodes of inferred hydrothermal input to the Montney basin. Cross‐plots of La/Sm and Yb/Sm further suggest hydrothermal input as well as the scavenging of middle rare earth elements by phosphatic fish debris. Additionally, plots of La/Sm versus Yb/Sm, which show volcanic arc input within the Doig Formation, suggest an additional sediment source from the west during the Anisian. Pairing detrital and clay proxies demonstrates changes in relative sea‐level and, at the Smithian/Spathian boundary, the lowest relative sea‐level in the Montney Formation is observed, corresponding to a change in climate.
The design of the MBT‐G adherence and quality scale
Authors: Folmo Espen J. , Karterud Sigmund W. , Bremer Kjetil , Walther Kristoffer L. , Kvarstein Elfrida H. , Pedersen Geir A. F.
Published: July 2017

Few group psychotherapy studies focus on therapists' interventions, and instruments that can measure group psychotherapy treatment fidelity are scarce. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the reliability of the Mentalization‐based Group Therapy Adherence and Quality Scale (MBT‐G‐AQS), which is a 19‐item scale developed to measure adherence and quality in mentalization‐based group therapy (MBT‐G). Eight MBT groups and eight psychodynamic groups (a total of 16 videotaped therapy sessions) were rated independently by five raters. All groups were long‐term, outpatient psychotherapy groups with 1.5 hours weekly sessions. Data were analysed by a Generalizability Study (G‐study and D‐study). The generalizability models included analyses of reliability for different numbers of raters. The global (overall) ratings for adherence and quality showed high to excellent reliability for all numbers of raters (the reliability by use of five raters was 0.97 for adherence and 0.96 for quality). The mean reliability for all 19 items for a single rater was 0.57 (item range 0.26–0.86) for adherence, and 0.62 (item range 0.26–0.83) for quality. The reliability for two raters obtained mean absolute G‐coefficients on 0.71 (item range 0.41–0.92 for the different items) for adherence and 0.76 (item range 0.42–0.91) for quality. With all five raters the mean absolute G‐coefficient for adherence was 0.86 (item range 0.63–0.97) and 0.88 for quality (item range 0.64–0.96). The study demonstrates high reliability of ratings of MBT‐G‐AQS. In models differentiating between different numbers of raters, reliability was particularly high when including several raters, but was also acceptable for two raters. For practical purposes, the MBT‐G‐AQS can be used for training, supervision and psychotherapy research.
Seeing the big picture: Broadening attention relieves sadness and depressed mood
Authors: Gu Li , Yang Xueling , Li Liman Man Wai , Zhou Xinyue , Gao Ding‐Guo
Published: July 2017

We examined whether the broadened attentional scope would affect people's sad or depressed mood with two experiments, enlightened by the meaning of “seeing the big picture” and the broaden‐and‐build model. Experiment 1 (n = 164) is a laboratory‐based experiment, in which we manipulated the attentional scope by showing participants zoomed‐out or zoomed‐in scenes. In Experiment 2 (n = 44), we studied how depressed mood and positive and negative emotions were affected when participants watched distant versus proximal scenes for eight weeks in real life. Healthy participants in Experiment 1, who were induced to feel sad, could return to the baseline mood after having the broadened attention task but not after having the narrowed attention task, which indicated that immediate attention broadening manipulation could function as antidotes for the lingering effects of induced negative emotions. Participants with depressed mood in Experiment 2 showed reduced depressed mood, increased positive affect, and decreased negative affect after receiving attention broadening training compared to those receiving attention narrowing training. Our findings suggest a robust role of broadened attentional scope in relieving negative emotions and even mildly depressed mood in the long run.
Violence, the State, and the Poor: A View from the South,
Authors: Auyero Javier , Sobering Katherine
Published: July 2017

What are the basic contours of a political sociology of violence at the urban margins? Drawing on past and current ethnographic research in a poor area of Buenos Aires, this article calls for systematic research of the points of contact (overt and covert) between agents of the state and the poor. We argue that as part and parcel of the illicit drug trade, clandestine interventions of the state intensify interpersonal violence.
From where we stand: unsettling geographical knowledges in the classroom
Authors: Daigle Michelle , Sundberg Juanita
Published: July 2017

This piece reflects on the challenging process of implementing decolonial theory and practice in designing and co‐teaching an introductory human geography course. We share these reflections in dialogue with others striving to unsettle colonial and racist knowledge production. Our main objective is to encourage geographers to learn from Indigenous movements for decolonisation and self‐determination, as we work to unsettle geographical knowledges through our teaching.
A thick-walled sphere rotating in a uniform magnetic field: The next step to de-spin a space object
Authors: Nurge Mark A. , Youngquist Robert C. , Caracciolo Ryan A. , Peck Mason , Leve Frederick A.
Published: July 2017

Modeling the interaction between a moving conductor and a static magnetic field is critical to understanding the operation of induction motors, eddy current braking, and the dynamics of satellites moving through Earth's magnetic field. Here, we develop the case of a thick-walled sphere rotating in a uniform magnetic field, which is the simplest, non-trivial, magneto-statics problem that leads to complete closed-form expressions for the resulting potentials, fields, and currents. This solution requires knowledge of all of Maxwell's time independent equations, scalar and vector potential equations, and the Lorentz force law. The paper presents four cases and their associated experimental results, making this topic appropriate for an advanced student lab project.
Papers of note in
Science
357
(6347)
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: July 2017

This week’s articles highlight a newly discovered DNA repair system and the role of an inherited repressive epigenetic mark in fly embryonic development.
Activation of Stimulator of Interferon Genes in Hepatocytes Suppresses the Replication of Hepatitis B Virus
Authors: Guo Fang , Tang Liudi , Shu Sainan , Sehgal Mohit , Sheraz Muhammad , Liu Bowei , Zhao Qiong , Cheng Junjun , Zhao Xuesen , Zhou Tianlun , Chang Jinhong , Guo Ju-Tao
Published: July 2017

Induction of interferon and proinflammatory cytokines is a hallmark of the infection of many different viruses. However, hepatitis B virus (HBV) does not elicit a detectable cytokine response in infected hepatocytes. In order to investigate the molecular mechanism underlying the innate immune evasion, a functional cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP) synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway was reconstituted in a human hepatoma cell line supporting tetracycline-inducible HBV replication. It was demonstrated that induction of HBV replication neither activated nor inhibited this cytosolic DNA sensing pathway. However, human hepatoma cells, as well as immortalized mouse hepatocytes, express low levels of STING, which upon activation by cGAMP, the natural ligand of STING, led to induction of a proinflammatory cytokine response. Treatment of immortalized mouse hepatocytes supporting HBV replication with either cGAMP or a small molecule pharmacologic STING agonist significantly reduced viral DNA in a STING- and Janus kinase 1-dependent manner. Moreover, cGAMP treatment was able to induce inflammatory cytokine gene expression and inhibit the transcription of covalently closed circular DNA in HBV-infected human hepatoma cells expressing sodium taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide, an essential receptor for HBV infection of hepatocytes. The studies reported here and previously (F. Guo et al., Antimicrob Agents Chemother 59:1273–1281, 2015,
https://doi.org/10.1128/AAC.04321-14
) thus support the notion that pharmacological activation of STING in macrophages and hepatocytes induces host innate responses that can efficiently control HBV replication. Hence, despite not playing a significant role in host innate immune response to HBV infection of hepatocytes, STING is potentially a valuable target for immunotherapy of chronic hepatitis B.
Flucloxacillin Results in Suboptimal Plasma Voriconazole Concentrations
Authors: Muilwijk Eline W. , Dekkers Bart G. J. , Henriet Stefanie S. V. , Verweij Paul E. , Witjes Bregje , Lashof Astrid M. L. Oude , Groeneveld Geert H. , van der Hoeven Johannes , Alffenaar Jan Willem C. , Russel Frans G. M. , van de Veerdonk Frank , Brüggemann Roger J. M.
Published: July 2017

Combining voriconazole and flucloxacillin is indicated in patient cohorts experiencing both invasive aspergillosis and Gram-positive infections (e.g., patients with chronic granulomatous disease or postinfluenza pulmonary aspergillosis). We report a highly relevant interaction between voriconazole and flucloxacillin, resulting in subtherapeutic plasma voriconazole concentrations in more than 50% of patients, that poses a severe threat if not managed properly.