bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An insula-central amygdala circuit for behavioral inhibition
Authors: Schiff Hillary , Bouhuis Anna Lien , Yu Kai , Penzo Mario A. , Li Haohong , He Miao , Li Bo
Published: June 2017

Predicting which substances are suitable for consumption during foraging is critical for animals to survive. While food-seeking behavior is extensively studied, the neural circuit mechanisms underlying avoidance of potentially poisonous substances remain poorly understood. Here we examined the role of the insular cortex (IC) to central amygdala (CeA) circuit in the establishment of such avoidance behavior. Using anatomic tracing approaches combined with optogenetics-assisted circuit mapping, we found that the gustatory region of the IC sends direct excitatory projections to the lateral division of the CeA (CeL), making monosynaptic excitatory connections with distinct populations of CeL neurons. Specific inhibition of neurotransmitter release from the CeL-projecting IC neurons prevented mice from acquiring the “no-go” response, while leaving the “go” response largely unaffected in a tastant (sucrose/quinine)-reinforced “go/no-go” task. Furthermore, selective activation of the IC-CeL pathway with optogenetics drove unconditioned lick suppression in thirsty animals, induced aversive responses, and was sufficient to instruct conditioned action suppression in response to a cue predicting the optogenetic activation. These results indicate that activity in the IC-CeL circuit is necessary for establishing anticipatory avoidance responses to an aversive tastant, and is also sufficient to drive learning of such anticipatory avoidance. This function of the IC-CeL circuit is likely important for guiding avoidance of substances with unpleasant tastes during foraging in order to minimize the chance of being poisoned.

Significance Statement

The ability to predict which substances are suitable for consumption is critical for survival. Here we found that activity in the insular cortex (IC) to central amygdala (CeA) circuit is necessary for establishing avoidance responses to an unpleasant tastant, and is also sufficient to drive learning of such avoidance responses. These results suggest that the IC-CeA circuit is critical for behavioral inhibition in anticipation of potentially poisonous substances during foraging.
Global DNA methylation, as estimated in blood samples, does not correlate with variations of body condition, anatomical features and hematological parameters in American bullfrogs(Lithobates catesbeianus)kept captive under distinct environmental conditions
Authors: García Braulio Ayala , Fuentes-Farías Alma L. , Ospina Gabriel Gutiérrez
Published: June 2017

Different levels of Global DNA Methylation (GDM) could have facilitated the emergence of new species, without relying on gene mutations, through promoting ontogenetic phenotypic plasticity. If this assertion was correct, one could expect individuals of the same species living under distinct environmental conditions to be genetically similar, but having different GDM levels and being phenotypically divergent. We tested this presumption by studying the relationship between variability of functional morphological traits and GDM levels in American bullfrog(Lithobates catesbeianus), in green houses located in two geographical sites. Our analyses revealed that body linear morphometry, skull geometry, scaled mass index, packed cell volume and neutrophil counts differed significantly among males and females within and between localities. GDM, nonetheless, was rather similar among sex and locality groups. These results show that levels of GDM, at least under our experimental contexts, does not correlate with functional morphological trait variability.
Successful immune checkpoint blockade in a patient with advanced stage microsatellite-unstable biliary tract cancer
Authors: Czink Elena , Kloor Matthias , Goeppert Benjamin , Fröhling Stefan , Uhrig Sebastian , Weber Tim F. , Meinel Jörn , Sutter Christian , Weiss Karl Heinz , Schirmacher Peter , Doeberitz Magnus von Knebel , Jäger Dirk , Springfeld Christoph
Published: June 2017

Cancers acquire multiple somatic mutations that can lead to the generation of immunogenic mutation-induced neoantigens. These neoantigens can be recognized by the host's immune system. However, continuous stimulation of immune cells against tumor antigens can lead to immune cell exhaustion, which allows uncontrolled outgrowth of tumor cells. Recently, immune checkpoint inhibitors have emerged as a novel approach to overcome immune cell exhaustion and reactivate antitumor immune responses. In particular, antibodies blocking the exhaustion-mediating programmed death receptor (PD-1)/programmed death receptor ligand (PD-L1) pathway have shown clinical efficacy. The effects were particularly pronounced in tumors with DNA mismatch repair (MMR) deficiency and a high mutational load, which typically occur in the colon and endometrium. Here, we report on a 24-yr-old woman diagnosed with extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma who showed strong and durable response to the immune checkpoint inhibitor pembrolizumab, although treatment was initiated at an advanced stage of disease. The patient's tumor displayed DNA MMR deficiency and microsatellite instability (MSI) but lacked other features commonly discussed as predictors of response toward checkpoint blockade, such as PD-L1 expression or dense infiltration with cytotoxic T cells. Notably, high levels of HLA class I and II antigen expression were detected in the tumor, suggesting a potential causal relation between functionality of the tumor's antigen presentation machinery and the success of immune checkpoint blockade. We suggest determining MSI status in combination with HLA class I and II antigen expression in tumors potentially eligible for immune checkpoint blockade even in the absence of conventional markers predictive for anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy and in entities not commonly linked to the MSI phenotype. Further studies are required to determine the value of these markers for predicting the success of immune checkpoint blockade.
Lamotriginium crotonate and lamotriginium salicylate ethanol monosolvate: the role of solvent molecules in the packing organization
Authors: Freire Eleonora , Echeverría Gustavo A. , Baggio Ricardo
Published: June 2017

Two lamotriginium salts, namely lamotriginium crotonate [systematic name: 3,5-diamino-6-(2,3-dichlorophenyl)-1,2,4-triazin-2-ium but-2-enoate, C9H8Cl2N5
+·C4H5O2
−, (III)] and lamotriginium salicylate [systematic name: 3,5-diamino-6-(2,3-dichlorophenyl)-1,2,4-triazin-2-ium 2-hydroxybenzoate ethanol monosolvate, C9H8Cl2N5
+·C7H5O3
−·C2H5OH, (IV)] present extremely similar centrosymmetric hydrogen-bonded A...L...L...A packing building blocks (L is lamotriginium and A is the anion). The fact that salicylate salt (IV) is (ethanol) solvated, while crotonate salt (III) is not, has a profound effect on the way these elemental units aggregate to generate the final crystal structure. Possible reasons for this behaviour are analyzed and the hypothesis raised checked against similar structures in the literature.
Workplace happiness: work engagement, career satisfaction, and subjective well-being
Authors: Joo Baek-Kyoo , Lee Insuk
Published: June 2017

Purpose

Employee happiness or well-being is an emerging topic in management as well as in psychology. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of perceived organizational support (POS) and psychological capital (PsyCap) on happiness in employees’ work (i.e. work engagement), careers (i.e. career satisfaction), and lives (i.e. subjective well-being (SWB)).

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 550 employees in a conglomerate in South Korea. For statistical analysis, we conducted confirmatory factor analysis, reliability and correlation analysis, and structural equation modeling analyses.

Findings

Employees were highly engaged in their work, satisfied with their careers, and felt a greater sense of well-being in their lives when they had higher POS and PsyCap. Work engagement fully mediated the relationship between PsyCap and career satisfaction. POS had an indirect effect on SWB through career satisfaction. With regards to the relationships among the three outcome variables, career satisfaction turned out to fully mediate the relationship between work engagement and SWB. In addition, the direct effect of PsyCap on SWB was also found to be significant.

Research limitations/implications

This study focused on knowledge workers in South Korean for-profit firms. The participants were mostly male, junior or middle managers. Using a cross-sectional survey method, this empirical study leaves room for speculation about the causality among the variables. As the results of exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses indicate, however, common method variance was found to not be of great concern.

Practical implications

The mission of human resources (HR) and organization development (OD) professionals in organizations is to improve individual and organizational performance and to enhance employees’ well-being. HR/OD professionals can enhance employees’ happiness not only in their work and careers but also in their lives by improving POS (e.g. growth opportunity, performance management, and compensation system) and developing PsyCap (e.g. staffing, training, and development, etc.).

Originality/value

This study linked the emerging constructs in positive psychology in general, in HR/OB in particular. To date, no study has empirically investigated the effects of PsyCap and POS on the three workplace happiness constructs: work engagement, career satisfaction, and SWB. This is the first study that found the relationship between POS and PsyCap. Last, while South Koreans are more collectivistic and less satisfied with their lives than the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development average, the respondents in this study, working for highly reputable firms, perceived high level of happiness in their work and career, and eventually in their lives. Thus, organizational features had a stronger effect on workplace happiness than national culture.
Trashy bags: sustainability crisis of a sustainable business
Authors: Tsamenyi Mathew , Yaa Antwi-Gyamfi Nana
Published: June 2017

Subject area

Entrepreneurship, Business Strategy, Leadership, Marketing and Decision-making in business.

Study level/applicability

This case is suitable for graduate-level programmes in business management as well as executive education programmes.

Case overview

Stuart Gold, CEO of Trashy Bags is at a crossroads with respect to the future of his business. With deficits estimated at about GHS 120,000 annually, Gold is considering switching from the made-to-stock production model to a made-to-order model. Although the latter may tap into an available market and thus boost revenue, it would likely result in the displacement of the social enterprise’s loyal following and disenfranchisement of its employees’ creativity; not to mention the possibility of neglecting its mandate of repurposing plastic waste. Gold wonders if there is a case for maintaining the current made-to-stock model by driving up sales and reducing costs to eliminate the deficit.

Expected learning outcomes

Students should be able to: appreciate the exigencies of managing social enterprises in a largely profit-oriented economic domain; understand the interplay of choice and trade-offs in business management and apply theory-driven frameworks in making optimal choices and analytically assess instances of tension between the art (e.g. passion, emotional stakes, psychological and other influences on business management philosophies) and science (e.g. the need for business skills, use of effective models and the quest for production efficiency) of business management.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only. Please contact your library to gain login details or email support@emeraldinsight.com to request teaching notes.

Subject code

CSS 3: Entrepreneurship.
Scanning and design thinking: organizational roles for innovation
Authors: Furue Nanami , Washida Yuichi
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to first suggest scanning focal areas in new product development (NPD) by comparing with design thinking and, second, to uncover what people in different occupations expect of NPD based on future scenarios.

Design/methodology/approach

Authors place scanning and design thinking into a matrix of product-market strategies. In addition, this study adopts several open-end-type questionnaire surveys of employees at Japanese companies who have taken part in idea generation workshops that take a medium- to long-term perspective.

Findings

Authors found that innovations generated through scanning can cover the most difficult and uncertain areas in practice compared with design thinking. This manuscript also reveals occupational categories can be divided into two groups according to different expectations of NPD: the rapid-fire NPD expectation group and late-bloomer NPD expectation group. The former group which consists of marketing and engineering experts tends to expect that NPD is simply a response to existing needs and that profit will be gained expeditiously through NPD, while the latter, which comprising design and research experts, tends to expect that NPD will realize future innovations.

Originality/value

This study shows some common and different points between scanning and design thinking by using a theoretical framework of product-market strategies. Also, this study reveals who will lead innovation based on foresight in business.
Export injury early warning of the new energy industries in China
Authors: Wang Jinjin , Wang Zhengxin , Li Qin
Published: June 2017

Purpose

In recent years, continuous expansion of the scale of the new energy export industry in China caused a boycott of American and European countries. Export injury early warning research is an urgent task to develop the new energy industry in China. The purpose of this paper is to build an indicator system of exports injury early warning of the new energy industry in China and corresponding quantitative early warning models.

Design/methodology/approach

In consideration of the actual condition of the new energy industry in China, this paper establishes an indicator system according to four aspects: export price, export quantity, impact on domestic industry and impact on macro economy. Based on the actual data of new energy industry and its five sub-industries (solar, wind, nuclear power, smart grid and biomass) in China from 2003 to 2013, GM (1,1) model is used to predict early warning index values for 2014-2018. Then, the principal component analysis (PCA) is used to obtain the comprehensive early warning index values for 2003-2018. The 3-sigma principle is used to divide the early warning intervals according to the comprehensive early warning index values for 2003-2018 and their standard deviation. Finally, this paper determines alarm degrees for 2003-2018.

Findings

Overall export condition of the new energy industry in China is a process from cold to normal in 2003-2013, and the forecast result shows that it will be normal from 2014 to 2018. The export condition of the solar energy industry experienced a warming process, tended to be normal, and the forecast result shows that it will also be normal in 2014-2018. The biomass and other new energy industries and nuclear power industry show a similar development process. Export condition of the wind energy industry is relatively unstable, and it will be partially hot in 2014-2018, according to the forecast result. As for the smart grid industry, the overall export condition of it is normal, but it is also unstable, in few years it will be partially hot or partially cold. The forecast result shows that in 2014-2018, it will maintain the normal state. In general, there is a rapid progress in the export competitiveness of the new energy industry in China in the recent decade.

Practical implications

Export injury early warning research of the new energy industry can help new energy companies to take appropriate measures to reduce trade losses in advance. It can also help the relevant government departments to adjust industrial policies and optimize the new energy industry structure.

Originality/value

This paper constructs an index system that can measure the alarm degrees of the new energy industry. By combining the GM (1,1) model and the PCA method, the problem of warning condition detection under small sample data sets is solved.
Multivariate grey gradient incidence model and its application
Authors: Zhang Ke , Zhong Qiupin , Zuo Yuan
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to overcome the shortcomings of existing multivariate grey incidence models that cannot analyze the similarity of behavior matrixes.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the feasibility of using gradient to measure the similarity of continuous functions is analyzed theoretically and intuitively. Then, a grey incidence degree is constructed for multivariable continuous functions. The model employs the gradient to measure the local similarity, as incidence coefficient function, of two functions, and combines local similarity into global similarity, as grey incidence degree by double integral. Third, the gradient incidence degree model for behavior matrix is proposed by discretizing the continuous models. Furthermore, the properties and satisfaction of grey incidence atom of the proposed model are research, respectively. Finally, a financial case is studied to examine the validity of the model.

Findings

The proposed model satisfies properties of invariance under mean value transformation, multiple transformation and linear transformation, which proves it is a model constructed from similarity perspective. Meanwhile, the case study shows that proposed model performs effectively.

Practical implications

The method proposed in the paper could be used in financial multivariable time series clustering, personalized recommendation in e-commerce, etc., when the behavior matrixes need to be analyzed from trend similarity perspective.

Originality/value

It will promote the accuracy of multivariate grey incidence model.
Farmers’ perception, awareness and adaptation to climate change: evidence from northwest Vietnam
Authors: Thi Lan Huong Nguyen , Shun Bo Yao , Fahad Shah
Published: June 2017

Purpose

This study aims to examine the extent to which farmers are aware of climate change and how they have modified their growing practices in response to perceived climate changes.

Design/methodology/approach

A logit model was used to explore farmers’ awareness and a binary logistic model was used to analyze their adaptive responses. Data from 335 farm households were collected from three provinces of Northwest Vietnam with different climate change vulnerability.

Findings

Farmers’ awareness of climate change was related significantly to household and farm characteristics. Farm experience, education level, location, tenancy status, soil fertility, access to credit, climate information, agricultural extension services, farmer groups, non-agriculture income, distance to market and house and climate change experience influence adaptation measure choices.

Research limitations/implications

These findings suggest that investment strategies must promote adaptation to climate change by supporting technological and institutional methods, such as education, markets, credit and information.

Originality/value

This study is the first study that uses econometric models to analyze farmers’ perception effect and adaptation to climate change aspect in Northwest Vietnam
An assessment of climate change impacts and adaptation in South Asian agriculture
Authors: Wang Sonam Wangyel , Lee Woo-Kyun , Son Yowhan
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to synthesize the impacts of climate change on agriculture and assess the status of policies, programs and strategies to adapt small farm holders to climate change in South Asia.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors collected secondary information through a desktop review of policy documents, action plans and published reports. Face-to-face interviews with policy makers, agriculture and climate experts representing the government, non-governmental organizations, international development agencies and the private sector were also conducted to validate the secondary information.

Findings

The results revealed that agriculture is the dominant economic mainstay providing livelihood to over 70 per cent, employing 60 per cent of the labor force and contributing about 22 per cent of the regional gross domestic product. Climate impacts, such as floods, sea level rise and salt intrusion, increased frequency and intensity of storms, and pests combined with increasing water scarcity continue to reduce arable land, reduce yield of crops and threaten the food security of farmers. Adaptation efforts include using improved varieties of crop; changing cropping patterns and planting seasons; and water conservation techniques. However, progress remains low because of a lack of adequate technical knowledge and financial resources.

Originality/value

The amount of published literature on climate change and its impact on agriculture is increasing, but there is little effort to analyze and document impacts and strategies to adapt small farm holders to climate change at a landscape level, particularly in South Asia. This study fills in this gap and will serve as a valuable source of information for those wishing to conduct research or develop adaptation strategies for any of the four countries of Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Nepal.
Who controls transport emissions and who cares? Investigating the monitoring of environmental sustainability from a logistics service provider’s perspective
Authors: Nilsson Fredrik Ralf , Sternberg Henrik , Klaas-Wissing Thorsten
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the environmental impact of logistics service provider (LSP) activities in the light of customer priorities and the fragmentation of the road haulage industry in Europe. It also explores the extent to which LSPs can actually monitor the environmental impact of logistics activities in the supply chain (SC).

Design/methodology/approach

The research is based on a narrative literature review, an interview study, a case survey and three in-depth case studies. A framework on sustainability challenges in SCs, derived from the literature, is used to structure and analyse the findings.

Findings

Despite the ambitious environmental schemes communicated by several LSPs, they show little interest in, and exert little control over, the actual emissions generated from their transport operations. It is clear from the results that any real concern from customers for environmental solutions which negatively influence the cost and time requirements of logistics services is not yet a reality.

Research limitations/implications

This paper implies that LSP sustainability cannot be investigated in isolation if a company does not manage its proprietary resources (like owning trucks and employing drivers), but rather engage subcontractors.

Practical implications

Environmental policies among different LSPs appear to be similar as policies, but differ in practice. This variation of practices emphasises the importance of follow-up control by environmentally aware buyers of logistics services.

Originality/value

This paper represents a novel approach as to how LSP environmental policies should be viewed. It highlights the concrete need for action to achieve the environmental targets of 2020 and 2050 for carbon emissions from road transportation.
University-school partnerships as arrangements in policy implementation
Authors: Midthassel Unni Vere
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to add to the knowledge base of school-university partnerships by exploring such partnerships in terms of policy implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper takes a qualitative approach using semi-structured interviews.

Findings

To achieve a joint understanding of roles, focus, and work in the partnerships based on the schools’ needs and scholars’ competence was crucial. This was not easily achieved in all partnerships. Conflicting expectations were part of the process. Although they were demanding, the partnership arrangements also represented opportunities for the university scholars to learn.

Originality/value

The findings suggest that partnership arrangements require parties that understand the implications of this collaboration and that respect, mutual trust, and joint understanding are needed. It is likely that bringing different parties together will create conflicts that must be resolved. If unfamiliar to the parties, the use of partnership arrangements is itself an implementation that has its own process that operates in parallel to the work in focus.
Private police legitimacy: the case of internal investigations by fraud examiners
Authors: Gottschalk Petter
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the legitimacy of private policing of financial crime by fraud examiners.

Design/methodology/approach

The literature on fraud examiners is interpreted in the legitimacy context.

Findings

A number of critical issues based on the institutional theory and social psychology issues are discussed that question the legitimacy of private policing of financial crime.

Research limitations/implications

There is a need for regulation of the private fraud examination industry.

Practical implications

A number of legitimacy issues should be addressed by financial crime specialists.

Social implications

Victims of private investigations require regulation of the investigation industry.

Originality/value

Criteria for police legitimacy are applied to the private sector.
Identity, legitimacy and “making sense” of police use of force
Authors: Bradford Ben , Milani Jenna , Jackson Jonathan
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the extent to which police legitimacy and social identity explain variation in public acceptance of police use of force. The authors assess whether there is an association between legitimacy and public acceptance of apparently illegal or unethical police action; and the extent to which identification with a particular social group predicts judgments of police behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

The study draws upon cross-sectional data from a 2015 survey of a representative sample of adults in England and Wales. Structural equation modeling is used to model conditional correlations between latent constructs.

Findings

There are two main findings. First, identifying more strongly with a social group that the police may be seen to represent was consistently associated with greater acceptance of police use of force, whether or not that force seemed to be justified. Second, beliefs about the legitimacy of the police were also associated with acceptance, but primarily only in relation to the use of force in situations where it appeared prima facie justifiable.

Social implications

Results suggest one possible set of reasons why police retain public support in the face of scandals concerning excessive use of force.

Originality/value

This is one of only very few studies that have used survey data to explore lay justifications for police use of force.
How to measure procedurally (un)just behavior during police-citizen interactions
Authors: Van Damme Anjuli
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to validate an instrument, based on previous research, for measuring procedurally just and unjust police behavior during interactions with citizens.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered from September 2015 to January 2016 using systematic social observations in two local police forces in Belgium. A total of 284 full police-citizen interactions were observed. The authors describe and explain how the procedurally (un)just police behavior is measured and discuss existing research on the subject. The authors also test the validity of the instrument and stress the importance of making a distinction between procedurally just and unjust behavior, which has often been overlooked in previous research.

Findings

The measurement instrument passed the validity test, except for the procedurally just neutrality sub-index. The findings also confirm that both procedurally just and procedurally unjust police behavior can occur in the same interaction. Moreover, except for the trustworthy sub-indexes, the authors found a stronger negative correlation of procedurally unjust behavior with the citizen’s behavior compared to the strength of the positive correlations of the procedural justice indexes.

Research limitations/implications

The findings confirm a usable measurement instrument for research about procedural justice using systematic social observations. Important improvements were made to instruments that have been utilized in previous research. One of the most important recommendations for future research is to make a distinction between procedurally just and unjust police behavior.

Originality/value

This study is the first in which all four elements of police procedurally just behavior as well as their four procedurally unjust variants were measured using systematic social observations.
Psychological empowerment, psychological and physical strain and the desired retirement age
Authors: Schermuly Carsten Christoph , Büsch Victoria , Graßmann Carolin
Published: June 2017

Purpose

The desired retirement age (DRA) becomes more important because some countries adapt their strict retirement regulations to it. A process is tested for how psychological empowerment influences the DRA mediated by psychological and physical strain and how the DRA is connected to the expected retirement age (ERA). The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

Structured interviews with 1,485 German employees (55 years and older) were conducted via telephone.

Findings

Psychological and physical strain mediated both the relationship between psychological empowerment and the DRA. DRA and ERA were positively associated. The control variables – age, net income, and organizational size – also significantly affected the DRA.

Research limitations/implications

The results are only valid for the German job market. All variables were collected at one measurement point.

Practical implications

The strengthening of psychological empowerment can be one measure to motivate older employees to delay their retirement and finally keep them longer in the labor force.

Originality/value

A large sample was collected and interviewed via telephone, which helps to overcome some limitations of questionnaire research. The process model helps to understand how job characteristics are connected with the DRA and the ERA.
Behavior of fund managers in Malaysian investment management industry
Authors: Ahmad Zamri , Ibrahim Haslindar , Tuyon Jasman
Published: June 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the relevance of bounded rationality to the practice of institutional investors in Malaysia. Understanding institutional investor behavior is important, as it can determine the asset prices and consequently the market behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

A set of questionnaires is used to solicit information regarding the understanding and practical application of behavioral finance theories and strategies among fund managers in the Malaysian investment management practice. In the process, bounded rational theory is aimed to be validated. Fund managers’ possible bounded rational behavior is assessed with reference to their investment management approaches and strategies right from individual beliefs and acquisition of information, as well as investment management and strategies used.

Findings

The findings lend support to the notion that institutional investors too, being normal human beings, are expected to think and behave in a boundedly rational manner as postulated in bounded rational theory. The sources of bounded rationality are individual, institutional and social forces. Thus, portfolio trading and investment management strategies are exposed to wide varieties of behavioral risks. Despite the notions that behavioral risks are real and the impact on fund performance could be pervasive, fund managers’ self-awareness regarding control and institutional readiness to govern behavioral risks in investment practices is still low.

Research limitations/implications

Empirical evidence drawn in the current paper is subjected to small sample size and specific focus on Malaysian context. Despite this limitation, the sample is statistically sufficient and provides a fair representation, as well as quality opinions, of fund manager’s investment management behavior in Malaysia. This research provides valuable implications to practitioners (fund managers) and regulators (investment management and capital market policymakers). In practice, the current study draws some practical ideas, especially for buy-side institutional investors, on the source and impact of behavioral biases on fund management practices and performance. For regulators, this research highlighted the needs and possible ways to regulate these behavioral risks.

Originality/value

The current paper provides new insights on the theory and practice of the institutional investor. In theory, this research provides evidence of bounded rationality of institutional investor behavior, practicing in the asset management industry in the emerging markets of Malaysia. This evidence lends support to the validity of the bounded rationality theory in explaining institutional investor behavior. In practice, thisresearch provides new insights on the relevance of behavioral finance perspectives and strategies in the asset management industry practice and policy.
The “market for information” – functions, problems and policy proposals
Authors: Holland John
Published: June 2017

Purpose

Problems arose in the “market for information” (MFI) during the “dot.com” boom, the Enron case, Northern Rock failure and during the great financial crisis (GFC) of 2007-2009. This paper aims to extend the understanding of the MFI through field research and theoretical sources. It also aims to understand the MFI during relatively stable periods and during periods of rapid change, crisis and failure. It seeks to use these insights to propose changes to reduce the possibilities for negative change and problems in the MFI.

Design/methodology/approach

Field studies are used to develop an “empirical narrative” for ongoing MFI structures, processes and outcomes during relatively stable periods. The paper develops a “theoretical narrative” to extend the understanding of the MFI empirical insights.

Findings

The paper reveals that the MFI structure that includes knowledge and social context is central to ongoing MFI economic processes for MFI agents. Outcomes include changes in markets, firms and others. Changes and problems are means to understand interactions between the MFI social structure, knowledge, actions and outcomes as they rendered visible the previously invisible issues.

Originality/value

The paper shows that a coherent combination of new empirical narrative and theoretical narrative is essential to develop a critical stance, new policy prescriptions and new regulations to deal with problems and changes in the MFI. This provides the frame to propose changes in the “world of knowledge” and in (concentrated and elite) social and economic structures in the MFI. It proposes: making explicit shared knowledge in the MFI, monitoring change processes and promoting active formal learning.
Identification and characterisation of isoprene‐degrading bacteria in an estuarine environment
Authors: Johnston Antonia , Crombie Andrew T. , El Khawand Myriam , Sims Leanne , Whited Gregg M. , McGenity Terry J. , Colin Murrell J.
Published: June 2017

Approximately one‐third of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted to the atmosphere consists of isoprene, originating from the terrestrial and marine biosphere, with a profound effect on atmospheric chemistry. However, isoprene provides an abundant and largely unexplored source of carbon and energy for microbes. The potential for isoprene degradation in marine and estuarine samples from the Colne Estuary, UK, was investigated using DNA‐Stable Isotope Probing (DNA‐SIP). Analysis at two timepoints showed the development of communities dominated by Actinobacteria including members of the genera Mycobacterium, Rhodococcus, Microbacterium and Gordonia. Representative isolates, capable of growth on isoprene as sole carbon and energy source, were obtained from marine and estuarine locations, and isoprene‐degrading strains of Gordonia and Mycobacterium were characterised physiologically and their genomes were sequenced. Genes predicted to be required for isoprene metabolism, including four‐component isoprene monooxygenases (IsoMO), were identified and compared with previously characterised examples. Transcriptional and activity assays of strains growing on isoprene or alternative carbon sources showed that growth on isoprene is an inducible trait requiring a specific IsoMO. This study is the first to identify active isoprene degraders in estuarine and marine environments using DNA‐SIP and to characterise marine isoprene‐degrading bacteria at the physiological and molecular level.
BEWARE THE BUBBLE EFFECT
Authors: LEWIS DAVID
Published: June 2017

Self‐belief is useful. But it can also be dangerous, says David Lewis
LET'S HEAR IT FOR ADHOCRACY
Authors: BIRKINSHAW JULIAN , RIDDERSTRALE JONAS
Published: June 2017

Julian Birkinshaw and Jonas Ridderstrale say big organisations should think less about top‐down strategy and allow more freedom at the grassroots
A chitinase from Euphorbia characias latex is a novel and powerful plant‐based pesticide against Drosophila suzukii
Authors: Martos S. , Spanò D. , Agustí N. , Poschenrieder C. , Pintus F. , Moles L. , Medda R.
Published: June 2017

Drosophila suzukii attacks on developing soft fruits have recently caused important economic losses in Europe. This study explores the effectiveness of a new control strategy against this insect pest that is based on a plant chitinase extracted from the latex of the Mediterranean spurge, Euphorbia characias. The ability of the purified Euphorbia latex chitinase (ELC) to degrade the chitin exoskeleton of D. suzukii was assessed using confocal laser scanning microscopy. ELC treatment caused reduced larval growth, higher mortality and notable degradation of external insect structures. Therefore, the chitinase may induce a double effect on the D. suzukii larvae, a direct injury on the larval bodies and an action as antifeedant. The effects of the ELC treatment were also tested on leaves of the insect's host plants, Fragaria × ananassa and Rubus idaeus, using physiological parameters (chlorophyll concentration, chlorophyll fluorescence, leaf gas exchange and water potential) and defence gene expression (FaPGIP, FaChi2_1 and FaChi2_2) as stress indicators. ELC at concentrations effective against D. suzukii did not damage the host plants. Only plant defence gene expression was somewhat enhanced during the early hours after ELC application. In conclusion, ELC, a natural product, proved to be an effective tool for use in the development of an environmentally friendly integrated management strategy against D. suzukii, a pest whose control by conventional chemical insecticides is problematic.
Hardystonite‐Coated Poly(l‐lactide) Nanofibrous Scaffold and Efficient Osteogenic Differentiation of Adipose‐Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Tavangar Banafsheh , Arasteh Shaghayegh , Edalatkhah Haleh , Salimi Ali , Doostmohammadi Ali , Seyedjafari Ehsan
Published: June 2017

In this study, a ceramic‐coated nanofibrous scaffold has been fabricated to biomimic the microstructure of natural extracellular matrix and the stiffening inorganic compartment of bone. Poly‐l‐lactic acid (PLLA) nanofibers were electrospun and exposed to oxygen plasma to induce hydrophilicity and promote ceramic adsorption. Hardystonite (HS), which possesses superior osteoinduction potential over hydroxyapatite, was coated on plasma‐treated PLLA nanofibers by drenching the nanofibers in HS suspension. Pure and composite PLLA‐based scaffolds were characterized in terms of physical and biological properties. In vitro cultivation of adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (AMSCs) on the scaffolds displayed that the composite scaffold is able to further support cell attachment and proliferation. In case of osteogenic differentiation of AMSCs, HS coating significantly increased the synthesis and activity of alkaline phosphate over 21 days period. In addition, the composite scaffold showed improved mineralization. The expression level of osteonectin and osteocalcin genes was significantly enhanced by HS coating of nanofibers. The biological improvement of PLLA nanofibrous matrix in the presence of HS nanoparticles could either be attributed to the release and stimulatory effect of constituent ions of HS or to the modification of chemico‐physical properties of the resultant ceramic by silicon and zinc present in HS.
Eplerenone for chronic central serous chorioretinopathy–a randomized controlled prospective study
Authors: Schwartz Roy , Habot‐Wilner Zohar , Martinez Michael R. , Nutman Amir , Goldenberg Dafna , Cohen Shai , Shulman Shiri , Guzner‐Gur Hanan , Loewenstein Anat , Goldstein Michaella
Published: June 2017

Purpose

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of eplerenone for chronic nonresolving central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC).

Methods

Prospective, double‐blind, randomized placebo‐controlled study. Nineteen eyes of 17 patients with persistent subretinal fluid (SRF) due to CSC were enrolled and randomized to receive eplerenone 50 mg/day or placebo for 3 months, followed by a 3‐month follow‐up. The main outcome measure was change in SRF from baseline to 3 months of treatment. Secondary outcomes included change in SRF at any time‐point, complete resolution of SRF, improvement in choroidal thickness and change in best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA).

Results

Thirteen eyes were treated with eplerenone and six with placebo. Both groups showed reduction in SRF throughout the treatment period, with a significant reduction at months 1, 3 and 5 only in the treatment group. Twenty‐three per cent in the treatment group and 30.8% per cent in the placebo group experienced complete resolution of SRF. A significant improvement in BCVA was noted in the placebo group at 4 months, as well as a significant difference in BCVA between groups at 3 months in favour of the placebo group (p = 0.005). There was no significant difference in choroidal thickness in either group throughout the study period. No adverse events related to eplerenone were noted in the treatment group.

Conclusion

In this study, eplerenone was not found to be superior to placebo in eyes with chronic CSC.
Workplace Family Support, Parental Satisfaction, and Work–Family Conflict: Individual and Crossover Effects among Dual‐Earner Couples
Authors: Matias Marisa , Ferreira Tiago , Vieira Joana , Cadima Joana , Leal Teresa , Mena Matos Paula
Published: June 2017

Workplace family support has been regarded as a factor that helps reduce individuals' work to family conflict (WFC). How this support translates into families' functioning is still to be determined. In this study, we used a systems perspective to examine (a) how perceptions of workplace family support affect parental satisfaction and consequently reduce WFC and (b) how the perception of support affects partners' parental satisfaction and WFC in dual‐earner couples. A two‐wave dyadic data set of dual‐earner couples with preschool‐aged children (N = 90) was used, and the actor‐partner interdependence mediation model (APIMeM) was applied. Results showed that controlling for WFC, working hours, number and age of children, mothers' perceptions of workplace family support (time 1) had indirect effects, through mothers' parental satisfaction (time 1), on their own levels of WFC (time 2) as well as on their partners' levels of WFC (time 2). Fathers' perceptions of workplace family support (time 1) had a direct effect on fathers' parental satisfaction (time 1) and on fathers' WFC (time 2). These results suggest that in addition to boosting parental well‐being, perceptions of a supportive workplace may help reduce the level of WFC for both direct recipients of support and their partners, in particular when support is experienced by mothers, and when these mothers experience heightened parental satisfaction.
Cricopharyngeal dysphagia and phenobarbitone‐responsive sialoadenosis in a Miniature Poodle
Authors: McCann SAM , le Chevoir M , Lacorcia L , Wernham BGJ , Mansfield CS
Published: June 2017

Case report

An 11‐year‐old male neutered Miniature Poodle was investigated for ptyalism, weight loss and anorexia. Cricopharyngeal dysphagia was diagnosed using fluoroscopy, and non‐inflammatory salivary disease was diagnosed using a combination of cytology and computed tomography. The dog was successfully managed with phenobarbitone.

Conclusion

To the authors’ knowledge this is the first time acquired cricopharyngeal dysphagia and phenobarbitone‐responsive sialoadenosis have been described together.
Outbreaks of sarcoptic mange in free‐ranging koala populations in Victoria and South Australia: a case series
Authors: Speight KN , Whiteley PL , Woolford L , Duignan PJ , Bacci B , Lathe S , Boardman W , Scheelings TF , Funnell O , Underwood G , Stevenson MA
Published: June 2017

Objective

To describe outbreaks of sarcoptic mange caused by Sarcoptes scabiei in free‐ranging koalas in Victoria (December 2008 to November 2015) and South Australia (October 2011 to September 2014).

Methods

Koalas affected by mange‐like lesions were reported by wildlife carers, veterinary practitioners or State Government personnel to the Faculty of Veterinary and Agricultural Sciences at The University of Melbourne and the School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences at The University of Adelaide. Skin scrapings were taken from live and dead koalas and S. scabiei mites were identified. Tissues from necropsied koalas were examined histologically.

Results

Outbreaks of sarcoptic mange were found to occur in koalas from both Victoria (n = 29) and South Australia (n = 29) for the first time. The gross pathological and histopathological changes are described.

Conclusion

We present the first reported cases of sarcoptic mange outbreaks in free‐ranging koalas.
Long‐term control of olfactory neuroblastoma in a dog treated with surgery and radiation therapy
Authors: Gumpel E , Moore AS , Simpson DJ , Hoffmann KL , Taylor DP
Published: June 2017

Background

Olfactory neuroblastoma is a rare malignancy of the nasal cavity in dogs that is thought to arise from specialised sensory neuroendocrine olfactory cells derived from the neural crest.

Case report

An 8‐year‐old dog was presented for reclusiveness and pacing. On CT and MRI, a contract‐enhancing mass was disclosed within the rostral fossa, extending caudally from the cribriform plate into the left nasal sinus. Surgical excision was performed and the diagnosis was histological grade III (Hyams grading scheme) olfactory neuroblastoma. Based on human CT criteria this was high stage (modified Kadish stage C). Surgical excision was incomplete and was followed by curative‐intent radiation therapy using a linear accelerator to a total dose of 48 Gy.

Conclusion

The dog survived 20 months after diagnosis. Although olfactory neuroblastoma is a rare tumour in dogs, aggressive local therapy may allow for prolonged survival, even when the tumour is advanced.