bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In retrospect: a case of merger in higher education
Authors: Leslie Heather , Abu-Rahma Ali , Jaleel Bushra
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the merger of two distinct higher education institutions. The change process was studied from the perspective of multiple stakeholders, and its major outcomes were evaluated in terms of various dimensions of success.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses a qualitative research design. For the purpose of data collection, semi-structured interviews with open-ended questions were used, targeting key decisions makers that led the change process. Additionally, university constituents, comprising students, faculty, and staff who were present during the merger, were invited to participate in an online survey.

Findings

Findings indicate that, although the merger deal appeared good on paper, it was not executed as well as it could have been, and the aftermath yielded lower than expected returns. The systems were not integrated properly, and cultural elements were overlooked, resulting in an anomic organizational environment, in place of what should have been a more cohesive academic community. The study establishes that institutions considering a merger should ensure that effective leadership is put in place to manage the implementation and that the cultures and identities are addressed and integrated as early as possible.

Research limitations/implications

Although the findings of this study are limited to the case of one university, it forms an illustrative example for other institutions that are undergoing or considering major change. Recommendations are given to avoid the pitfalls of merger in areas such as integration, identity and, leadership.

Originality/value

Contemporary research establishes mergers as one of the most crucial change processes a university goes through. This study contributes to the literature by using a micro-level approach to study an institutional merger and targeting the perception of key university constituencies, thereby providing in-depth analysis and a multidimensional outlook.
Factors affecting principals’ adoption of and satisfaction with market-driven externally developed reforms
Authors: Schwabsky Nitza
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the motives, opportunities, and threats associated with the adoption of market-driven externally developed reforms (EDRs) as well as how these motivator factors, combined with background variables, account for school principals’ satisfaction with EDR adoption.

Design/methodology/approach

Principals from 208 Israeli schools (grades 1-9) completed anonymous self-report questionnaires about the factors motivating their decision to implement EDRs and their satisfaction with these reform programmes in their schools. Validity and reliability tests, bivariate correlations and Pearson tests, paired t-tests, and a step-by-step multiple regression analysis were performed to examine the associations between the independent variables (individual and institutional variables, and motives, opportunities, and threats), and principals’ satisfaction with aspects of the EDRs.

Findings

Participants reported opportunities in the areas of pedagogy, learning excellence, teacher growth, and school climate. Threats were moderate-low and related to school faculty resistance, principals’ dependence on stakeholders, and difficulties in implementing EDRs. Of the political and the pedagogic motives, the latter was the sole motive associated with principals’ satisfaction with the EDRs. Findings fit within Herzberg’s two-factor theory and Festinger’s cognitive dissonance theory.

Originality/value

Studies on the factors motivating adoption of EDRs are scarce; this is the first to explore motivators’ effects on principals’ satisfaction. It is likely to help principals and decision makers in educational institutions construe the varied factors that affect the adoption of EDRs from senior officials’ viewpoints. Understanding these factors is highly important to the field worldwide because of the growing need to adopt EDRs.
Investigating students’ migration decisions in the frame of career management in higher education institutions of Latvia
Authors: Stukalina Yulia , Roskosa Antra , Pavlyuk Dmitry
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the main students’ motivators for their migration decisions, which can be used by education managers working in the area of career management in higher education institutions of Latvia.

Design/methodology/approach

Performed empirical data analysis is based on a survey data, collected from students of various educational programmes in two higher education institutions of Latvia. The data analysis consisted of three steps: initial exploratory data analysis (including testing for sample homogeneity, and sample descriptive statistics), correspondence analysis of student’s answers (including testing for survey reliability, discrimination measures and dimension reduction) and analysis of relationships between survey questions (including contingency tables, testing for directional associations and the logistic regression).

Findings

The results of the study show that students’ career motivators are significant explanatory factors for their migration decisions. According to the survey results, the main reasons for migration decisions are better career prospects, a higher salary, new professional experience and share of own experience, new professional contacts, motivating and interesting job, better training facilities and the support of their family members and friends who are working or studying abroad.

Research limitations/implications

First, the sample in this study included two higher education institutions. Second, the same respondents participated in both the qualitative and quantitative aspects of the research. Future study with a more diverse student population and the refined scale items is recommended to verify and generalise the findings.

Practical implications

The paper addresses policy makers at the national level and education managers responsible for career guidance activities. The conducted analysis has allowed the authors to provide some recommendations for education managers working in the area of career guidance and counselling in Latvia. However, as education managers in the Baltic states face similar challenges, the results might be also used by managers working in other Baltic states.

Originality/value

The empirical study performed in the paper has attempted to investigate the influence of students’ career drivers on their migration decisions in the framework of career management in higher education institutions.
Headteacher-teacher relationship and its effect on teacher’s trust in Malaysian high performing schools
Authors: Musah Mohammed Borhandden , Abdul Rahman Rozanne Emilia , Tahir Lokman Mohd , Al-Hudawi Shafeeq Hussain Vazhathodi , Daud Khadijah
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between headteachers and teachers and its effects on the role of trust in Malaysian high-performing schools through the dyadic relationship theoretical approach.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a survey questionnaire, a total of 199 teachers from five high-performing schools were selected as respondents for data collection. Before proceeding with inferential statistical analysis, teachers were separated into the “in-group” and “out-group”.

Findings

The findings revealed that the teachers from both the groups perceived that their facets of trust are strongly associated with the type of relationship they have with their school leaders. The results also demonstrate that the quality of dyadic relationships between headteachers and teachers moderately influences teachers’ trust.

Practical implications

The findings suggest that the headteachers should always build good relationships with the teachers to gain teachers’ trust for sustaining school effectiveness. The findings encourage the Ministry of Education, particularly the Teacher Recruitment Division, to require all teachers and headteachers to deepen their knowledge on leader-member exchange (LMX) role-development processes.

Originality/value

The results are of great importance since limited empirical studies have examined LMX role-development processes with reference to teachers and headteachers in the context of Malaysian higher performing schools.
Time-varying synchronization and dynamic conditional correlation among the stock market returns of leading South American economies
Authors: Panda Ajaya Kumar , Nanda Swagatika
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to capture the pattern of return volatility and information spillover and the extent of conditional correlation among the stock markets of leading South American economies. It also examines the connectedness of market returns within the region.

Design/methodology/approach

The time series properties of weekly stock market returns of benchmark indices spanning from the second week of 1995 to the fourth week of December 2015 are analyzed. Using univariate auto-regressive conditional heteroscedastic, generalized auto-regressive conditional heteroscedastic, and dynamic conditional correlation multivariate GARCH model approaches, the study finds evidence of returns and volatility linkages along with the degree of connectedness among the markets.

Findings

The findings of this study are consistent with increasing market connectedness among a group of leading South American economies. Stocks exhibit relatively fewer asymmetries in conditional correlations in addition to conditional volatility; yet, the asymmetry is relatively less apparent in integrated markets. The results demonstrate that co-movements are higher toward the end of the sample period than in the early phase. The stock markets of Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Peru are closely and strongly connected within the region followed by Colombia, whereas Venezuela is least connected with the group.

Practical implications

The implication is that foreign investors may benefit from the reduction of the risk by adding the stocks to their investment portfolio.

Originality/value

The unique features of the paper include a large sample of national stock returns with updated time series data set that reveals the time series properties and empirical evidence on volatility testing. Unlike other studies, this paper uncovers the relation between the stock markets within the same region facing the same market condition.
Impacts of supply chain planning and integration on mass customization
Authors: (Jason) Liu Gensheng , Zhang Weiyong , Guo Chundong
Published: March 2018

Purpose

Effective mass customization (MC) depends on accurately identifying customer needs and procuring appropriate components from supply base to manufacture the required product configurations in a timely manner. In essence, effective MC for a focal firm is contingent on effective supply chain management. However, extant literature is not very clear on how supply chain (SC) planning and integration activities affect MC. The purpose of this paper is to fill the gap by examining the impacts of SC-planning and SC-integration on MC.

Design/methodology/approach

Organizational information processing theory is used to link SC-integration with MC ability, and a link is hypothesized between SC-planning and SC-integration. The structural equation model is then analyzed using data from 262 manufacturing plants.

Findings

It is found that SC-integration fully mediates the relationship between SC-planning and MC-ability.

Research limitations/implications

The SC-integration measure is from a focal manufacturer’s standpoint, rather than the standpoint of the entire SC.

Practical implications

The results indicate that using a SC perspective in planning activities helps a focal firm integrate with key stakeholders along the SC, which subsequently helps the firm mass customize. Practitioners should recognize the added importance of SC-planning and SC-integration if they want to mass customize.

Originality/value

This study provides a theoretical foundation for the relationship between SC-integration and MC. It also provides a more comprehensive conceptualization of SC-integration, which includes supplier integration, customer integration, as well as internal functional integration which was neglected in many previous studies.
Characterisation of Cu/Cu bonding using self-assembled monolayer
Authors: Lykova Maria , Panchenko Iuliana , Künzelmann Ulrich , Reif Johanna , Geidel Marion , Wolf M. Jürgen , Lang Klaus-Dieter
Published: March 2018

Purpose

Cu/Cu diffusion bonding is characterised by high electrical and thermal conductivity, as well as the mechanical strength of the interconnects. But despite a number of advantages, Cu oxidises readily upon exposure to air. To break through the adsorbed oxide-layer high temperature and pressure, long bonding time and inert gas atmosphere are required during the bonding process. This paper aims to present the implementation of an organic self-assembled monolayer (SAM) as a temporary protective coating that inhibits Cu oxidation.

Design/methodology/approach

Information concerning elemental composition of the Cu surface has been yielded by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Two types of substrates (electroplated and sputtered Cu) are prepared for thermocompression bonding in two different ways. In the first case, Cu is cleaned with dilute sulphuric acid to remove native copper oxide. In the second case, passivation with SAM followed the cleaning step with dilute sulphuric acid. Shear strength, fracture surface, microstructure of the received Cu/Cu interconnects are investigated after the bonding procedure.

Findings

The XPS method revealed that SAM can retard Cu from oxidation on air for at least 12 h. SAM passivation on the substrates with sputtered Cu appears to have better quality than on the electroplated ones. This derives from the results of the shear strength tests and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging of Cu/Cu interconnects cross sections. SAM passivation improved the bonding quality of the interconnects with sputtered Cu in comparison to the cleaned samples without passivation.

Originality/value

The Cu/Cu bonding procedure was optimised by a novel preparation method using SAMs which enables storage and bonding of Si-dies with Cu microbumps at air conditions while remaining a good-quality interconnect. The passivation revealed to be advantageous for the smooth surfaces. SEM and shear strength tests showed improved bonding quality for the passivated bottom dies with sputtered Cu in comparison to the samples without SAM.
Mena Stock Markets Integration: Pre and Post Global Financial Crisis
Authors: Almohamad Somar , Mishra Anil V. , Yu Xiao
Published: March 2018

This paper examines the short‐ and long‐run linkages in pre and post global financial crisis among Middle East and North Africa (MENA) stock markets, between MENA and Chinese stock markets and also between MENA and developed (United States and United Kingdom) stock markets. Results indicate that both long‐run co‐integration relationships and short‐run causal linkages among MENA stock markets increased in post‐crisis than that in pre‐crisis sub‐period. The degree of integration between MENA and Chinese stock markets increased in post‐crisis than pre‐crisis. We also find that the degree of integration between MENA and developed (United States and United Kingdom) stock markets increased in post‐crisis than that in pre‐crisis. The presence of increased linkages among MENA markets, and between MENA and Chinese stock markets and also between MENA and developed (United States and United Kingdom) markets has important implications for portfolio investors and policy makers.
Observability of Incentive Contract and Platform Competition
Authors: Bao Lei , Zhang Yulin , Ribeiro Vitor Miguel
Published: March 2018

As in traditional firms, owners of platforms may hire managers to reduce the marginal production cost. The managers’ contracts may be either observable or unobservable by rival platforms. This paper analyses the impact of contract observability in a two‐sided market composed of symmetric indirect externalities with quantity competition and perfect information on agents’ effort. We show that, in both types of contracts, managers’ effort and platform subscription on each side of the market increase as the indirect network externality becomes more intense. However, the impact of the indirect network externality on platform profit is ambiguous. Managerial incentives, consumer surplus and social welfare are higher with observable contracts; however, platform profit is higher with unobservable contracts. Our analysis demonstrates that the disclosure of incentive information in two‐sided markets implies tougher competition which unambiguously increases social welfare.
Ago2 and Dicer1 are involved in METH‐induced locomotor sensitization in mice via biogenesis of miRNA
Authors: Liu Dan , Zhu Li , Ni Tong , Guan Fang‐lin , Chen Yan‐jiong , Ma Dong‐liang , Goh Eyleen L.K. , Chen Teng
Published: March 2018

microRNA (miRNA) play important roles in drug addiction and act as a post‐transcriptional regulator of gene expression. We previously reported extensive downregulation of miRNAs in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) of methamphetamine (METH)‐sensitized mice. However, the regulatory mechanism of this METH‐induced downregulation of miRNAs has yet to be elucidated. Thus, we examined METH‐induced changes in the expression of miRNAs and their precursors, as well as the expression levels of mRNA and the proteins involved in miRNA biogenesis such as Dicer1 and Ago2, in the nucleus accumbens of METH‐induced locomotor sensitized mice. miRNAs and Ago2 were significantly downregulated, while the expression of miRNA precursors remained unchanged or upregulated, which suggests that the downregulation of miRNAs was likely due to a reduction in Ago2‐mediated splicing but unlikely to be regulated at the transcription level. Interestingly, the expression level of Dicer1, which is a potential target of METH‐induced decreased miRNAs, such as miR‐124, miR‐212 and miR‐29b, was significantly increased. In conclusion, this study indicates that miRNA biogenesis (such as Ago2 and Dicer1) and their miRNA products may have a role in the development of METH addiction.
Do FHIT gene alterations play a role in human solid tumors?
Authors: Silveira Zavalhia Lisiane , Weber Medeiros Aline , Oliveira Silva Andrew , Vial Roehe Adriana
Published: March 2018

The fragile histidine triad (FHIT) gene encloses an active common chromosomal fragile site, FRA3B. This gene is known to be associated with genomic instability, apoptosis and DNA damage. FHIT disturbances have been related to carcinogenesis in different types of human tumor. Despite this, there are some controversies about the exact role of the FHIT gene in relation to tumor biology. Several pieces of evidence support the hypothesis that FHIT acts as a tumor suppressor gene. A loss or decrease in the Fhit protein expression appears to be related to tumor progression, poor prognostic factors and lower survival rates. The most frequent causes of FHIT expression changes are gene mutations, epigenetic alteration and loss of heterozygosity. This literature review aims to clarify the involvement of the FHIT gene in carcinogenesis, tumor progression and clinical outcome in prevalent solid malignancies, such as breast, lung, cervical, esophageal, gastric and colorectal cancers.
The effect of a major earthquake experienced during the first trimester of pregnancy on the risk of preterm birth
Authors: Hawkins Georgina , Gullam Joanna , Belluscio Laura
Published: March 2018

Background

On 22 February 2011 an earthquake (magnitude 6.3) hit Christchurch, New Zealand. Earthquakes have been associated with increased risks of preterm birth (PTB) and other adverse pregnancy outcomes. However, the literature on this subject is scarce. Maternal antenatal stress has been suggested as the link between earthquakes and PTB. In this study the Christchurch earthquake was utilised as a model of maternal stress to assess its effects on PTB rates and other pregnancy outcomes.

Aim

To investigate whether women who experienced a major earthquake during the first trimester of pregnancy were at an altered risk of PTB compared to women who did not experience an earthquake during their pregnancy.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study. Women carrying a singleton pregnancy in their first trimester on 22 February, 2011 were identified for a post‐earthquake cohort (n = 1057). A group of women pregnant in 2009 were identified for a pre‐earthquake cohort (n = 1314). Data were obtained from electronic medical records and the hospital clinical coding database. Chi‐square test, Fisher's exact test and Wilcoxon rank sum test were used to analyse differences in pregnancy outcomes. Statistically significant variables together with earthquake exposure were assessed as risk factors for PTB using a multivariate logistic regression model.

Results

No significant difference in the rate of PTB was found between the two groups P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Women carrying a singleton pregnancy in this study who experienced a major earthquake in their first trimester do not seem to be at an increased risk of PTB.
Measuring the dynamics of APEC output connectedness
Authors: Ogbuabor Jonathan E. , Eigbiremolen God’stime O. , Aneke Gladys C. , Charles Manasseh O.
Published: March 2018

We examine the dynamics of output connectedness of Asian Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) economies using time‐varying, region‐specific, generalised connectedness measures. We find that the connectedness of APEC economies with the rest of the world is quite substantial, with the 2008–09 Global Financial Crisis increasing the connectedness measures above their precrisis levels. The USA, China, and Korea are shown to be systemically important and to dominate APEC’s real activities, while outside the APEC region the roles of India and the UK are also non‐negligible. These results suggest that the majority of APEC economies are considerably open to output shocks from the dominant economies such that policymakers in APEC must be continuously conscious of headwinds originating from these sources.
Direct‐acting antiviral treatment for hepatitis C virus infection and risk of incident liver cancer: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Singer A. W. , Reddy K. R. , Telep L. E. , Osinusi A. O. , Brainard D. M. , Buti M. , Chokkalingam A. P.
Published: March 2018

Background

Eradication of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection via interferon‐based treatment lowers hepatocellular carcinoma risk; some research suggests this effect extends to interferon‐free treatment.

Aims

The objective of this retrospective cohort study was to examine the association of direct‐acting antiviral (DAA) exposure with risk of incident liver cancer in real‐world data.

Methods

From United States administrative claims data through March 31, 2017, we identified 30 183 adult HCV patients exposed to DAAs. For comparison, we identified contemporary adult HCV patients without evidence of HCV treatment (N = 137 502), and historical HCV patients treated with interferon prior to the introduction of DAAs (N = 12 948). Included patients had at least 12 months of prior enrolment and no evidence of prior liver cancer at baseline. Hazard ratios (HRs) estimating risk of incident liver cancer associated with DAA treatment were calculated using Cox proportional hazards methods.

Results

Relative to untreated HCV patients, DAA‐treated patients were older, more likely to be male, and more likely to have cirrhosis at baseline. After adjustment, DAA treatment was associated with a significantly reduced risk of liver cancer relative to no treatment (adjusted HR = 0.84, 95% CI: 0.73‐0.96), and relative to interferon‐based treatment in the pre‐DAA era (HR = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.59‐0.81).

Conclusions

In this large, population‐based study, DAA‐based treatment was associated with a reduced risk of incident liver cancer relative to both no HCV treatment and to interferon‐based treatment in the pre‐DAA era. As additional follow‐up time of DAA‐treated patients accrues, we anticipate that the long‐term benefits of DAA treatment will become more apparent.
Depression and anxiety during pregnancy: The influence of maternal characteristics
Authors: van de Loo Kim F. E. , Vlenterie Richelle , Nikkels Sylke J. , Merkus Peter J. F. M. , Roukema Jolt , Verhaak Chris M. , Roeleveld Nel , van Gelder Marleen M. H. J.
Published: March 2018

Background

Depression and anxiety during pregnancy are associated with adverse health outcomes for both mother and child. This study aims to investigate the occurrence of symptoms of depression and anxiety in early and late pregnancy, the longitudinal changes from early to late pregnancy, and factors associated with symptoms of depression and anxiety in pregnant women in the Netherlands.

Methods

We studied 2897 women participating in the PRegnancy and Infant DEvelopment (PRIDE) Study. To assess symptoms of depression and anxiety, web‐based questionnaires including the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and multiple questions on maternal characteristics were completed in early and late pregnancy. Cross‐sectional and longitudinal multivariable linear regression analyses were conducted.

Results

The depressive symptoms in our population increased, with a prevalence of probable depression from 5.4% in early pregnancy to 10.0% in late pregnancy (P < .001), whereas the anxiety symptoms decreased, with a prevalence of probable anxiety from 17.9% to 14.2% (P < .001). Characteristics associated with depressive or anxiety symptoms included low level of education, multiparity, a history of depression, severe nausea, extreme fatigue, lack of physical exercise, and negative life events. Being non‐Dutch, not living with a partner, and having an unplanned pregnancy or a long time to pregnancy were associated with the depressive and/or anxiety symptoms in early pregnancy only.

Discussion

Symptoms of depression and anxiety are common in both early and late pregnancy. Screening for risk factors in early pregnancy is important, since prenatal depression and anxiety may be related to adverse maternal and child health outcomes.
Cerebellar α6‐subunit‐containing GABAA receptors: a novel therapeutic target for disrupted prepulse inhibition in neuropsychiatric disorders
Authors: Chiou Lih‐Chu , Lee Hsin‐Jung , Ernst Margot , Huang Wei‐Jan , Chou Jui‐Feng , Chen Hon‐Lie , Mouri Akihiro , Chen Liang‐Chieh , Treven Marco , Mamiya Takayoshi , Fan Pi‐Chuan , Knutson Daniel E , Witzigmann Chris , Cook James , Sieghart Werner , Nabeshima Toshitaka
Published: March 2018

Background and Purpose

The pathophysiological role of α6‐subunit‐containing GABAA receptors, which are mainly expressed in cerebellar granule cells, remains unclear. Recently, we demonstrated that hispidulin, a flavonoid isolated from a local herb that remitted a patient's intractable motor tics, attenuated methamphetamine‐induced hyperlocomotion in mice as a positive allosteric modulator (PAM) of cerebellar α6GABAA receptors. Here, using hispidulin and a selective α6GABAA receptor PAM, the pyrazoloquinolinone Compound 6, we revealed an unprecedented role of cerebellar α6GABAA receptors in disrupted prepulse inhibition of the startle response (PPI), which reflects sensorimotor gating deficits manifested in several neuropsychiatric disorders.

Experimental Approach

PPI disruptions were induced by methamphetamine and NMDA receptor antagonists in mice. Effects of the tested compounds were measured in Xenopus oocytes expressing recombinant α6β3γ2SGABAA receptors.

Key Results

Hispidulin given i.p. or by bilateral intracerebellar (i.cb.) injection rescued PPI disruptions induced by methamphetamine, ketamine, MK‐801 and phencyclidine. Intracerebellar effects of hispidulin were mimicked by Ro15‐4513 and loreclezole (two α6GABAA receptor PAMs), but not by diazepam (an α6GABAA receptor‐inactive benzodiazepine) and were antagonized by furosemide (i.cb.), an α6GABAA receptor antagonist. Importantly, Compound 6 (i.p.) also rescued methamphetamine‐induced PPI disruption, an effect prevented by furosemide (i.cb.). Both hispidulin and Compound 6 potentiated α6β3γ2SGABAA receptor‐mediated GABA currents.

Conclusions and Implications

Positive allosteric modulation of cerebellar α6GABAA receptors rescued disrupted PPI by attenuating granule cell activity. α6GABAA receptor‐selective PAMs are potential medicines for treating sensorimotor gating deficits in neuropsychiatric disorders. A mechanistic hypothesis is based on evidence for cerebellar contributions to cognitive functioning including sensorimotor gating.
Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein immunoglobulin G‐associated disease: An overview
Authors: Fujihara Kazuo , Sato Douglas K. , Nakashima Ichiro , Takahashi Toshiyuki , Kaneko Kimihiko , Ogawa Ryo , Akaishi Tetsuya , Matsumoto Yuki , Takai Yoshiki , Nishiyama Shuhei , Kuroda Hiroshi , Misu Tatsuro , Aoki Masashi
Published: March 2018

Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) is localized at the outermost layer of the myelin sheath and is accessible for autoantibodies. Although experimental autoimmune encephalitis induced with MOG immunization has been studied for 30 years, the results of previous reports on MOG immunoglobulin G (IgG) detection with enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and Western blot are confusing. However, after the development of human MOG‐transfected cell‐based assay to detect conformational‐sensitive MOG‐IgG, unique groups of patients have been found seropositive, and MOG‐IgG‐associated disease has become a hot topic in clinical neuroimmunology. Currently, the clinical spectrum of MOG‐IgG‐associated disease includes idiopathic optic neuritis, acute disseminated encephalomyelitis, encephalitides (brainstem and cerebral cortical), idiopathic myelitis, atypical multiple sclerosis, aquaporin‐4 IgG‐negative neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders and others. MOG‐IgG‐associated disease occurs in both children and adults, and the female:male ratio is almost 1:1. Pleocytosis in the cerebrospinal fluids during acute exacerbation is often seen, but oligoclonal IgG bands are usually negative. T helper cell 17, B cells and neutrophil‐related cytokines appear to be upregulated intrathecally. The pathology of acute lesions is characterized by active inflammation demyelination with deposition of immunoglobulins and complements. Just like aquaporin 4 IgG‐positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders, some disease‐modifying drugs for multiple sclerosis seem to be inefficacious in MOG‐IgG‐associated disease, and chronic immunosuppression is required to prevent relapse, especially in patients persistently positive for MOG‐IgG. Our understanding of this newly recognized disease remains insufficient, and the progress of research is much expected.
Dysregulated T cells in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Chihara Norio
Published: March 2018

Multiple exogenous signals received from cell surface molecules or cytokines play a significant role in altering the host immune response. In chronic autoimmune‐mediated diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), immune cells, especially T cells, are involved in the long‐term pathophysiology. In the past few decades, mechanisms of pathogenic T‐cell involvement at the onset or relapse of disease have been highlighted. However, the factors controlling the disease course have yet to be elucidated because of the complexity of tissue environmental factors. In contrast, dysfunctional or exhausted T cells have been identified as distinct cell lineages in chronic inflammatory diseases, such as cancer or chronic viral infections that show regulatory T cell phenotypes; for example, expressing high levels of co‐inhibitory receptors. Regarding cell surface molecule expression, while co‐stimulatory molecules promote effector T‐cell function, co‐inhibitory molecules promote regulatory T‐cell function, limiting the inflammatory response. In MS, augmented activation of effector T cells as a result of the impairment of regulatory T‐cell function has been implicated. Thus, a comparison between these regulatory T cells in MS and dysfunctional T cells in cancer could provide clues to understand the mechanism of dysregulated T cells, resulting in sustained immune reactions in the long‐term disease course of MS. Furthermore, this reveals new immunomodulatory strategies to regain regulatory T‐cell function in MS.
Fetal mortality in oral cleft families (VI): A search for early embryonic and zygotic mortality
Authors: DRONAMRAJU KRISHNA R. , BIXLER DAVID
Published: March 2018

A hypothesis concerning the detection of early embryonic and zygotic mortality in oral cleft families is presented. It is suggested that probands from solitary pregnancies are the result of a higher liability to clefting which eliminated potential siblings prior to the conception of the proband. A positive association between the degree of liability to clefting and fetal mortality has already been established by the authors' previous work. In sibships of solitary probands, such liability is assumed to have caused early embryonic and zygotic mortality which eliminated potential siblings and recognizable fetal loss. This hypothesis can be tested by an examination of the sex‐ratios in probands from solitary pregnancies and those from multiple pregnancies. For CL(P), a decrease in the proportion of males would be expected in probands from solitary pregnancies in comparison to those from multiple pregnancies. For CP, however, an increase in the proportion of males in solitary probands is expected in comparison to those from multiple pregnancies. This hypothesis is applied to 613 CL(P) probands and 317 CP probands from Indiana. Although the expected decrease (for CL(P)) and increase (for CP) in the proportion of males in solitary probands is not quite significant, the trends are in the expected directions. It is suggested that the hypothesis should be tested further with additional data on oral clefts and other similar anomalies.
Initial Clinical Experience with AZD5718, a Novel Once Daily Oral 5‐Lipoxygenase Activating Protein Inhibitor
Authors: Ericsson Hans , Nelander Karin , Lagerstrom‐Fermer Maria , Balendran Clare , Bhat Maria , Chialda Ligia , Gan Li‐Ming , Heijer Maria , Kjaer Magnus , Lambert John , Lindstedt Eva‐Lotte , Forsberg Gun‐Britt , Whatling Carl , Skrtic Stanko
Published: March 2018

We evaluated safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of AZD5718, a novel 5‐lipooxygenase activating protein (FLAP) inhibitor, in a randomized, single‐blind, placebo‐controlled, first‐in‐human (FIH) study consisting of single and multiple ascending dosing (SAD and MAD) for 10 days in healthy subjects. Target engagement was measured by ex vivo calcium ionophore stimulated leukotriene B (LTB4) production in whole blood and endogenous leukotriene E (LTE4) in urine. No clinically relevant safety and tolerability findings were observed. The AZD5718 was rapidly absorbed and plasma concentrations declined biphasically with a mean terminal half‐life of 10–12 h. Steady‐state levels were achieved after ∼3 days. After both SADs and MADs, a dose/concentration‐effect relationship between both LTB4 and LTE4 vs. AZD5718 exposure was observed with concentration of half inhibition (IC50) values in the lower nM range. Based on obtained result, AZD5718 is considered as a suitable drug candidate for future evaluation in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD).
Functional neuroanatomy of gesture–speech integration in children varies with individual differences in gesture processing
Authors: Demir‐Lira Özlem Ece , Asaridou Salomi S. , Raja Beharelle Anjali , Holt Anna E. , Goldin‐Meadow Susan , Small Steven L.
Published: March 2018

Gesture is an integral part of children's communicative repertoire. However, little is known about the neurobiology of speech and gesture integration in the developing brain. We investigated how 8‐ to 10‐year‐old children processed gesture that was essential to understanding a set of narratives. We asked whether the functional neuroanatomy of gesture–speech integration varies as a function of (1) the content of speech, and/or (2) individual differences in how gesture is processed. When gestures provided missing information not present in the speech (i.e., disambiguating gesture; e.g., “pet” + flapping palms = bird), the presence of gesture led to increased activity in inferior frontal gyri, the right middle temporal gyrus, and the left superior temporal gyrus, compared to when gesture provided redundant information (i.e., reinforcing gesture; e.g., “bird” + flapping palms = bird). This pattern of activation was found only in children who were able to successfully integrate gesture and speech behaviorally, as indicated by their performance on post‐test story comprehension questions. Children who did not glean meaning from gesture did not show differential activation across the two conditions. Our results suggest that the brain activation pattern for gesture–speech integration in children overlaps with—but is broader than—the pattern in adults performing the same task. Overall, our results provide a possible neurobiological mechanism that could underlie children's increasing ability to integrate gesture and speech over childhood, and account for individual differences in that integration.
Children with sickle cell disease: the case for developmental screening
Authors: King Allison A
Published: March 2018

This commentary is on the original article by Schatz et al. on pages 520–526 of this issue.
The Pathways and Resources for Participation and Engagement (PREP): methodological contributions to environment‐focused interventions
Authors: Kramer Jessica M
Published: March 2018

This commentary is on the original article by Anaby et al. on pages 513–519 of this issue.
Skepticism, cerebral palsy, and the General Movements Assessment
Authors: Maitre Nathalie
Published: March 2018

This commentary is on the systematic review by Kwong et al. on pages 480‐489 of this issue.
Functional mobility and self‐care outcomes after multilevel orthopaedic surgery in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Thomason Pam
Published: March 2018

This commentary is on the original article by Dequeker et al. on pages 505–512 of this issue.
PARENTS KNOW THEM BETTER: THE EFFECT OF OPTIONAL EARLY ENTRY ON PUPILS' SCHOOLING ATTAINMENT
Authors: Ordine Patrizia , Rose Giuseppe , Sposato Daniela
Published: March 2018

The effect of optional early school entry on pupils' educational outcomes is investigated using data covering the entire population of Italian primary school students and exploiting exogenous thresholds imposed by norms regulating first enrollment. Results highlight the fact that pupils whose parents can choose when their children start school perform better than those who are bounded by terms imposed by law. These findings suggest that parental choice leads to a better match between pupils' characteristics and the beginning of formal learning. Results show that giving parents the option to anticipate or delay school entry could be a beneficial measure. (JEL I20, H52)
Rethinking Economics and Education: Exponential Growth and Post‐Growth Strategies
Authors: Irwin Ruth
Published: March 2018

Education is increasingly vocational and structured to serve the ongoing exponential increase in economic growth. Climate change is an outcome of these same economic values and praxes. Attempts to shift these values and our approach to technology are continually absorbed and overcome by the pressing motif of economic growth. In this article, Ruth Irwin uses Martin Heidegger's concept of the technological enframing of modernity to view economic growth. John Maynard Keynes's notion of economic growth (which he called the “multiplier effect”) has impacted the pace of consumerism that now permeates every aspect of knowing about the world we live in. Irwin asks us to think through technological enframing anew by looking to an early mechanical Greek artifact, the Antikythera mechanism, which depicts a cyclical notion of time used by ancient cultures to define the rhythm of economic productivity. The earth‐centric cosmos embodied by this mechanism helped the Mesopotamian economy stay within the parameters of the local ecology and demonstrates that cyclical economic growth may enable a civilization to maintain a steady state over time and survive for millennia. An earth‐centric cosmology creates a different set of values, one that emphasizes the need to regulate the pace of consumerism rather than allowing it free rein “as by an Invisible Hand.” The role of education in this exploration is twofold: first, it is a pivotal site for cultural exploration and transformation; and second, the expectations of the state strictly limit the forms education can take, so that as long as promoting economic growth defines state expectations, education will remain subservient to these values. If we aim to overcome climate change, Irwin concludes, we need to transform the expectations for education from society as well as from teachers.
Earth Juts into World: An Earth Ethics for Ecologizing Philosophy of Education
Authors: Joldersma Clarence W.
Published: March 2018

Philosophers of education often focus their critique on issues such as neoliberalism, consumerism, pluralism, and so on, and they typically turn for solutions to what we might call the political: democracy, the public, cosmopolitanism, dissent. These critiques and solutions remain firmly connected to what Heidegger calls “the world,” and this worldly analysis seemingly hovers above earthly issues of the environment and ecology. In this article, Clarence Joldersma employs Martin Heidegger's distinction between earth and world, drawing on Kelly Oliver's interpretation of it, to “ecologize” philosophy of education by arguing that that earth “juts” into the world. Philosophy of education needs a Derridean supplement, something that makes up for a lack, but that, in filling the lack, simultaneously supplants it. Joldersma invites philosophy of education to supplement its worldly principles (dissent, democracy, and the like) with an “earth ethics” that is characterized by three features. First, this ethics lets the earth and earthlings be, recognizing their continuing mystery as beings. Second, it acknowledges gratefulness toward the earth, an indebtedness to the earth for the reliable support it provides to our worldly projects and concerns. Third, it recognizes earth's fundamental fragility, that its seeming worldly dependability conceals an earthly vulnerability. Joldersma concludes that these three features, in tandem, give rise to an earthly ethics of responsibility. Philosophy of education needs an earth ethics to supplement, if not supplant, its worldly principles.
Concordance of child self‐reported psychotic experiences with interview‐ and observer‐based psychotic experiences
Authors: Gundersen Steffie V. , Goodman Robert , Clemmensen Lars , Rimvall Martin K. , Munkholm Anja , Rask Charlotte Ulrikka , Skovgaard Anne Mette , Van Os Jim , Jeppesen Pia
Published: March 2018

Aim

Valid instruments for the early identification of psychotic experiences (PE) and symptoms in youths are urgently needed for large‐scale preventive interventions. A new section of The‐Development‐and‐Well‐Being Assessment (DAWBA) measuring child self‐reported PE has yet to be validated. The current study aimed to investigate the concurrent validity of DAWBA‐based self‐reported PE (PE‐S) with regard to interview‐based measures of PE (PE‐I).

Methods

Participants were 1571 (47.8% male) children of age 11 to 12 years from the Copenhagen Child Cohort 2000 (CCC2000) with complete data from both the online PE‐section of DAWBA and the following face‐to‐face interview and assessment of PE. The DAWBA‐PE‐section asks the child 10 questions covering auditory and visual hallucinations, delusional ideas and subjective thought disturbances ever in life; and attributions to sleep, fever, illness or drug intake. The interview‐based assessment of PE was performed by trained professionals using 22 items from The Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia for School Aged Children‐Present and Lifetime Version (KSADS‐PL). The two assessments were completed independently.

Results

The prevalence of PE‐S was 28.1% (24.3% for PE‐S with no frequent attributions), compared with 10.2% for PE‐I. The predictive values of PE‐S for any PE‐I were: sensitivity = 73.8%, specificity = 77.1%, positive predictive value (PPV) = 26.8% and negative predictive value (NPV) = 96.3%. Self‐reported visual hallucinations had the best overall predictive values with a sensitivity of 43.1%, specificity of 94.0%, PPV of 44.8% and a NPV of 93.6% for any PE‐I.

Conclusion

The DAWBA‐section proved valuable as a screening tool for PE in the youth general population.
Dopaminergic neuromodulation of high gamma stimulus phase‐locking in gerbil primary auditory cortex mediated by D1/D5‐receptors
Authors: Deliano Matthias , Brunk Michael G. K. , El‐Tabbal Mohamed , Zempeltzi Maria M. , Happel Max F. K. , Ohl Frank W.
Published: March 2018

Cortical release of the neurotransmitter dopamine has been implied in adapting cortical processing with respect to various functions including coding of stimulus salience, expectancy, error prediction, behavioral relevance and learning. Dopamine agonists have been shown to modulate recurrent cortico‐thalamic feedback, and should therefore also affect synchronization and amplitude of thalamo‐cortical oscillations. In this study, we have used multitaper spectral and time–frequency analysis of stimulus‐evoked and spontaneous current source density patterns in primary auditory cortex of Mongolian gerbils to characterize dopaminergic neuromodulation of the oscillatory structure of current sources and sinks. We systemically applied D1/D5‐receptor agonist SKF‐38393 followed by competitive D1/D5‐receptor antagonist SCH‐23390. Our results reveal an increase in stimulus phase‐locking in the high gamma‐band (88–97 Hz) by SKF‐38393, specifically in layers III/IV at the best frequency, which occurred at 20 ms after tone onset, and was reversed by SCH‐23390. However, changes in induced oscillatory power after SKF‐38393 treatment occurred stimulus‐independently in the background activity in different layers than phase‐locking effects and were not reversed by SCH‐23390. These effects might either reflect longer‐lasting changes in neural background noise, non‐specific changes due to ketamine anesthesia, or an interaction of both. Without concomitant stimulus‐induced power increase, increased stimulus phase‐locking in layers III/IV indicates enhanced phase‐resetting of neural oscillations by the stimulus after D1/D5‐receptor activation. The frequency characteristics, together with the demonstrated stimulus specificity and layer specificity, suggest that changes in phase‐resetting originate from dopaminergic neuromodulation of thalamo‐cortical interactions. Enhanced phase‐resetting might be a key step in the recruitment of cortical activity modes interpreting sensory input.