bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Everyday life information seeking behaviour in relation to the environment
Authors: Mawby Janet , Foster Allen , Ellis David
Published: August 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to describe one of the preliminary results from interviews conducted as part of a PhD study into examining the role of peer and family influences on information-seeking behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

– The principal method of data collection was 38 semi-structured critical incident interviews, based on an interview guide and a short questionnaire to collect factual data. Some social network analysis of interviewees’ information sources is considered. Both quantitative and qualitative methods of analysis were used to code the interview transcripts. A naturalistic approach to everyday information seeking is taken.

Findings

– One of the preliminary findings of this research is that the notion of a new type of information has emerged – disposable information. A new type of information-seeking behaviour is also suggested here for disposable information – disposable information seeking. Disposable information is task specific and likely to only be required by an individual on a one-off basis, causing different everyday life information seeking (ELIS) patterns to emerge. Ultimately, people are only prepared to expend effort to get quality information if they perceive a value or further, continued use of that information.

Research limitations/implications

– Because of the research location and participant population, the results may lack transferability. Further research into this area is advised.

Practical implications

– The paper has implications about how people may search for and use information in certain situations where information is perceived as relevant to a particular task but unlikely to be needed in the future.

Originality/value

– This paper introduces the new concept of disposable information and disposable information-seeking behaviour.
The Parisian Porters' Revolt of January 1786
Authors: Gilbert Bennett
Published: August 2015

This paper gives a full picture of the moral universe pressuring all sides in the strike by porters in Paris during January 1786. These Parisian day‐labourers found their livelihood taken away by a new system of parcel delivery, part of a many‐sided endeavour to rationalise the economy. They rioted and were the first rioting mob to appeal to the king at Versailles. This paper looks at the riot from the points of view of the rioters and their neighbours, the police, the investors in the new parcel post scheme and the advancing American trade.
Anna Letitia Barbauld's ‘A Summer Evening's Meditation’ and the Cosmic Voyage since Paradise Lost
Authors: Browning Rob
Published: August 2015

Anna Barbauld's ‘A Summer Evening's Meditation’ is a late contribution to the cosmic voyage genre of poetry, which had enjoyed popularity during the first half of the eighteenth century. Studying the poem in the context of this literature calls attention to what is innovative about Barbauld's text: most notably, its allusion to Eve in introducing gender struggles to a genre that had been almost exclusively the province of male authors. In defying the cultural boundaries that had constrained the imaginations of female predecessors, Barbauld provides us with the first instance in English literature of a woman exploring modern deep space.
Intra‐Industry Information Transfers and the Post‐Earnings Announcement Drift
Authors: Kovacs Tunde
Published: August 2015

This study examines the role of intra‐industry information transfers in the analyst forecast‐based post‐earnings announcement drift. I find that subsequent same‐industry‐peer earnings announcements influence a firm's post‐earnings announcement drift if these subsequent announcements confirm the firm's initial earnings surprise and the firm's industry exhibits ex ante positive (common effect) intra‐industry information transfers. The results suggest that underreaction to industry‐specific information contributes to analyst forecast‐based post‐earnings announcement drift.
The histone deacetylase inhibitor butyrate improves metabolism and reduces muscle atrophy during aging
Authors: Walsh Michael E. , Bhattacharya Arunabh , Sataranatarajan Kavithalakshmi , Qaisar Rizwan , Sloane Lauren , Rahman Md M. , Kinter Michael , Van Remmen Holly
Published: August 2015

Sarcopenia, the loss of skeletal muscle mass and function during aging, is a major contributor to disability and frailty in the elderly. Previous studies found a protective effect of reduced histone deacetylase activity in models of neurogenic muscle atrophy. Because loss of muscle mass during aging is associated with loss of motor neuron innervation, we investigated the potential for the histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor butyrate to modulate age‐related muscle loss. Consistent with previous studies, we found significant loss of hindlimb muscle mass in 26‐month‐old C57Bl/6 female mice fed a control diet. Butyrate treatment starting at 16 months of age wholly or partially protected against muscle atrophy in hindlimb muscles. Butyrate increased muscle fiber cross‐sectional area and prevented intramuscular fat accumulation in the old mice. In addition to the protective effect on muscle mass, butyrate reduced fat mass and improved glucose metabolism in 26‐month‐old mice as determined by a glucose tolerance test. Furthermore, butyrate increased markers of mitochondrial biogenesis in skeletal muscle and whole‐body oxygen consumption without affecting activity. The increase in mass in butyrate‐treated mice was not due to reduced ubiquitin‐mediated proteasomal degradation. However, butyrate reduced markers of oxidative stress and apoptosis and altered antioxidant enzyme activity. Our data is the first to show a beneficial effect of butyrate on muscle mass during aging and suggests HDACs contribute to age‐related muscle atrophy and may be effective targets for intervention in sarcopenia and age‐related metabolic disease.
Altering sphingolipid composition with aging induces contractile dysfunction of gastric smooth muscle viaKCa1.1 upregulation
Authors: Choi Shinkyu , Kim Ji Aee , Kim Tae Hun , Li Hai‐yan , Shin Kyong‐Oh , Lee Yong‐Moon , Oh Seikwan , Pewzner‐Jung Yael , Futerman Anthony H. , Suh Suk Hyo
Published: August 2015

KCa1.1 regulates smooth muscle contractility by modulating membrane potential, and age‐associated changes inKCa1.1 expression may contribute to the development of motility disorders of the gastrointestinal tract. Sphingolipids (SLs) are important structural components of cellular membranes whose altered composition may affectKCa1.1 expression. Thus, in this study, we examined whether alteredSLcomposition due to aging may affect the contractility of gastric smooth muscle (GSM). We studied changes in ceramide synthases (CerS) andSLlevels in theGSMof mice of varying ages and compared them with those in youngCerS2‐null mice. The levels ofC16‐ andC18‐ceramides, sphinganine, sphingosine, and sphingosine 1‐phosphate were increased, and levels ofC22,C24:1 and C24 ceramides were decreased in theGSMof both aged wild‐type and youngCerS2‐null mice. The alteredSLcomposition upregulatedKCa1.1 and increasedKCa1.1 currents, while no change was observed inKCa1.1 channel activity. The upregulation ofKCa1.1 impaired intracellularCa2+mobilization and decreased phosphorylated myosin light chain levels, causingGSMcontractile dysfunction. Additionally, phosphoinositide 3‐kinase, protein kinaseCζ, c‐JunN‐terminal kinases, and nuclear factor kappa‐Bwere found to be involved inKCa1.1 upregulation. Our findings suggest that age‐associated changes inSLcomposition orCerS2 ablation upregulateKCa1.1 via the phosphoinositide 3‐kinase/protein kinaseCζ/c‐JunN‐terminal kinases/nuclear factor kappa‐B‐mediated pathway and impairCa2+mobilization, which thereby induces the contractile dysfunction ofGSM.CerS2‐null mice exhibited similar effects to aged wild‐type mice; therefore,CerS2‐null mouse models may be utilized for investigating the pathogenesis of aging‐associated motility disorders.
Ketamine‐Propofol Versus Propofol Alone for Procedural Sedation in the Emergency Department: A Systematic Review and Meta‐analysis
Authors: Yan Justin W. , McLeod Shelley L. , Iansavitchene Alla
Published: August 2015

Objectives

Propofol is an agent commonly used for procedural sedation and analgesia (PSA) in the emergency department (ED), but it can cause respiratory depression and hypotension. The combination of ketamine‐propofol (K‐P) is an alternative that theoretically provides a reduction in adverse events compared to propofol. The primary objective of this review was to determine if K‐P has a lower frequency of adverse respiratory events in patients undergoing PSA in the ED than propofol alone. Secondary objectives were to compare the proportion of overall adverse events, sedation time, procedure time, and recovery time between K‐P and propofol.

Methods

Electronic searches of Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and CINAHL were conducted and reference lists were hand‐searched. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in English comparing the use of K‐P to propofol alone for PSA in the ED were included.

Results

Six RCTs were included with a combined total of 932 patients (K‐P = 520, propofol = 412). Five RCTs reported the proportion of adverse respiratory events; the pooled estimate revealed fewer adverse respiratory events with K‐P compared to propofol (29.0% vs. 35.4%; risk ratio [RR] = 0.82; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.68 to 0.99). There was no significant difference with respect to the proportion of overall adverse events (38.8% vs. 42.5%; RR = 0.88; 95% CI = 0.75 to 1.04). Procedure time was similar when the groups were compared.

Conclusions

The premise of combining ketamine with propofol is based on the many synergies that theoretically exist between these two agents. In this study, K‐P had a lower frequency of adverse respiratory events in patients undergoing PSA in the ED compared to propofol alone.
The Frequency of Postreduction Interventions After Successful Enema Reduction of Intussusception
Authors: Lessenich Elisabeth M. , Kimia Amir A. , Mandeville Katherine , Li Joyce , Landschaft Assaf , Tsai Andy , Bachur Richard G.
Published: August 2015

Objectives

The objective was to determine the frequency of postreduction, hospital‐level interventions among children with successful reduction of ileocolic intussusception and identify factors that predict the need for such interventions.

Methods

This was a retrospective cross‐sectional study of children who underwent successful enema reduction for ileocolic intussusception at a single emergency department. Hospital‐level interventions were included if they occurred within 24 hours of reduction and were further classified as either major (recurrence or possible perforation) or minor (imaging for suspected recurrence or administration of parenteral narcotics or antiemetics). Binary logistic regression was used to identify predictors for hospital‐level interventions.

Results

A total of 464 children underwent enema reduction. The median age was 1.7 years (interquartile range [IQR] = 0.8 to 2.5 years), and 66% were male. A total of 435 (94%) were hospitalized with a median hospital stay of 25 hours (IQR = 19 to 34 hours). Nineteen percent (95% confidence interval [CI] = 15% to 22%) needed postreduction interventions, including 6% (95% CI = 4% to 9%) who required major interventions. The median time to any hospital intervention was 9.9 hours (IQR = 6.3 to 16.4 hours). We identified two independent predictors for hospital‐level interventions: duration of symptoms > 24 hours (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 2.1, 95% CI = 1.3 to 3.4) and location of the intussusception tip at (or proximal to) the hepatic flexure (adjusted OR = 1.9, 95% CI = 1.1 to 3.3); the latter factor was also a predictor of a major intervention. None of the children (95% CI = 0 to 1.0%) had an acute decompensation after an initially successful enema reduction.

Conclusions

Clinical decompensation is rare and recurrence is relatively low after an uncomplicated reduction of ileocolic intussusception. However, one in five children required hospital‐level interventions after reduction. Children with the intussusception tip at (or proximal to) the hepatic flexure, and those with symptoms for longer than 24 hours, are more likely to require subsequent interventions. Although outpatient management appears safe after a period of observation, caregivers should be counseled about the risk of ongoing symptoms and recurrence.
Constipation Prophylaxis Is Rare for Adults Prescribed Outpatient Opioid Therapy From U.S. Emergency Departments
Authors: Hunold Katherine M. , Smith Samantha A. , Platts‐Mills Timothy F.
Published: August 2015

Objectives

Constipation is a common and potentially serious side effect of oral opioids. Accordingly, most clinical guidelines suggest routine use of laxatives to prevent opioid‐induced constipation. The objective was to characterize emergency provider prescribing of laxatives to prevent constipation among adults initiating outpatient opioid treatment.

Methods

National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NHAMCS) data from 2010 were analyzed. Among visits by individuals aged 18 years and older discharged from the emergency department (ED) with opioid prescriptions, the authors estimated the survey‐weighted proportion of visits in which laxatives were also prescribed. A subgroup analysis was conducted for individuals aged 65 years and older, as the potential risks associated with opioid‐induced constipation are greater among older individuals. To examine a group expected to be prescribed laxative medication and confirm that NHAMCS captures prescriptions for these medications, the authors estimated the proportion of visits by individuals discharged with prescriptions for laxatives among those who presented with constipation.

Results

Among visits in 2010 by adults aged 18 years and older discharged from the ED with opioid prescriptions, 0.9% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.7% to 1.3%, estimated total n = 191,203 out of 21,075,050) received prescriptions for laxatives. Among the subset of visits by adults aged 65 years and older, 1.0% (95% CI = 0.5% to 2.0%, estimated total n = 18,681 out of 1,904,411) received prescriptions for laxatives. In comparison, among visits by individuals aged 18 years and older with constipation as a reason for visit, 42% received prescriptions for laxatives.

Conclusions

In this nationally representative sample, laxatives were not routinely prescribed to adults discharged from the ED with prescriptions for opioid pain medications. Routine prescribing of laxatives for ED visits may improve the safety and effectiveness of outpatient opioid pain management.
Accuracy of White Blood Cell Count and C‐reactive Protein Levels Related to Duration of Symptoms in Patients Suspected of Acute Appendicitis
Authors: Atema Jasper J. , Gans Sarah L. , Beenen Ludo F. , Toorenvliet Boudewijn R. , Laurell Helena , Stoker Jaap , Boermeester Marja A.
Published: August 2015

Objectives

Low levels of white blood cell (WBC) count and C‐reactive protein (CRP) have been suggested to sufficiently rule out acute appendicitis. The diagnostic value of these tests is likely to depend on the duration of complaints. The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of these inflammatory markers in relation to duration of symptoms in patients suspected of acute appendicitis.

Methods

Patients suspected of having acute appendicitis were retrospectively selected from five prospective cohorts of patients with acute abdominal pain presenting at the emergency department (ED) in two European countries. Only adult patients with clinical suspicion of acute appendicitis based on medical history, physical examination, and laboratory studies at the time of registration in the original cohorts were included in this analysis. WBC count and CRP level were determined in all patients and a final diagnosis was assigned to every patient by an expert panel based on all available clinical data and follow‐up. For categories based on symptom duration, the diagnostic accuracy of single and combined cutoff values was determined, and negative predictive values (NPV) and positive predictive values (PPV) were calculated. Subgroup analyses for age (<40 years or ≥40 years) and sex were performed.

Results

A total of 1,024 patients with clinically suspected acute appendicitis were included, of whom 580 (57%) were assigned a final diagnosis of appendicitis. No value of WBC count, CRP level, or their combination resulted in a NPV of more than 90%, regardless of the duration of symptoms. A WBC count of >20 × 109/L in combination with symptoms for more than 48 hours was associated with a PPV of 100%. However, only eight of the 1,024 patients (1%) fulfilled these criteria, limiting the clinical applicability. No other cutoff level of WBC count, CRP level, or their combination resulted in a PPV of more than 80%, regardless of the duration of symptoms. In female patients, normal levels of CRP and WBC count more accurately excluded the diagnosis of appendicitis than normal levels did in male patients.

Conclusions

No WBC count or CRP level can safely and sufficiently confirm or exclude the suspected diagnosis of acute appendicitis in patients who present with abdominal pain of 5 days or less in duration.
Stabilizing prevalence trends of eczema, asthma and rhinoconjunctivitis in Dutch schoolchildren (2001–2010)
Authors: de Korte‐de Boer D. , Mommers M. , Gielkens‐Sijstermans C. M. L. , Creemers H. M. H. , Mujakovic S. , Feron F. J. M. , van Schayck O. C. P.
Published: August 2015

In contrast to many countries, a decrease in childhood wheeze prevalence was previously reported for the Netherlands. In repeated cross‐sectional surveys in 2001, 2005 and 2010, we investigated whether this trend continued, and additionally examined prevalence trends of eczema, asthma and rhinoconjunctivitis among 8‐ to 11‐year‐old schoolchildren eligible for a routine physical examination. Overall, ~90% participated (mean age: 8.8 years in 2001 and 10.5 years in 2005 and 2010). Eczema, wheeze and asthma prevalence did not change significantly between 2001 and 2010, but rhinoconjunctivitis prevalence increased from 8.4% in 2001 to 12.3% in both 2005 and 2010 (Ptrend < 0.01). In conclusion, after a decrease in wheeze prevalence among Dutch schoolchildren between 1989 and 2001, no further decrease was observed until 2010. Similarly, the prevalence of eczema and asthma remained stable, but rhinoconjunctivitis prevalence increased between 2001 and 2010. The latter may be an effect of older age and not a true increase over time.
The impact of posterior vitreous adhesion on ischaemia in eyes with retinal vein occlusion
Authors: Bertelmann Thomas , Kicova Nadia , Mennel Stefan , Schmidt Jörg , Irle Sebastian , Sekundo Walter , Schulze Stephan
Published: August 2015

Purpose

To evaluate whether posterior vitreous adhesion (PVA) contributes to retinal ischaemia in eyes suffering from central (CRVO) or branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO).

Methods

Retrospective patient chart analysis of eyes with CRVO/BRVO receiving pars‐plana vitrectomy (ppV). Prior to surgery fluorescence angiography was conducted to classify RVO as ischaemic or not.

Results

Sixty eyes were included, thereof 36 (60%)/24 (40%) with CRVO/BRVO. In the CRVO group, 17 (47%)/19 (53%) eyes were classified as ischaemic/non‐ischaemic. Respective results for BRVO‐affected eyes were 16 (67%)/8 (33%). PVA/posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) was found in 33 (92%)/3 (8%) eyes with CRVO and in 23 (96%)/1 (4%) patients suffering from BRVO. Value differences of PVA/PVD between ischaemic‐ and non‐ischaemic‐typed RVO failed statistical significance for both, CRVO (p = 0.095) and BRVO (p = 1.0).

Conclusions

Posterior vitreous adhesion had no impact on retinal ischaemia in this investigation. As an attached posterior vitreous cortex acts as a scaffold and thus significantly increases neovascularization (NV) development in ischaemic‐typed RVO, a prospective study evaluating the effect of enzymatic vitreolysis is indicated.
Functional dysconnection in the prefrontal–amygdala circuitry in unaffected siblings of patients with bipolar I disorder
Authors: Li Cheng‐Ta , Tu Pei‐Chi , Hsieh Jen‐Chuen , Lee Hsin‐Chen , Bai Ya‐Mei , Tsai Chia‐Fen , Wang Shyh‐Jen , Hsu Ju‐Wei , Huang Kai‐Lin , Hong Chen‐Jee , Su Tung‐Ping
Published: August 2015

Objectives

Bipolar I disorder (BD) is a highly heritable disorder characterized by mood swings between high‐energy and low‐energy states. Amygdala hyperactivity and cortical inhibitory hypoactivity [e.g., of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC)] have been found in patients with BD, as evidenced by their abnormal resting‐state functional connectivity (FC) and glucose utilization (GU). However, it has not been determined whether functional abnormalities of the dlPFC–amygdala circuit exist in unaffected, healthy siblings of the patients with BD (BDsib).

Methods

Twenty euthymic patients with BD, 20 unaffected matching BDsib of the patient group, and 20 well‐matched healthy control subjects were recruited. We investigated seed‐based FC (seeds: dlPFC) with resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging and GU in the regions of interest (e.g., dlPFC and amygdala) using 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography.

Results

The FC in the dlPFC (right)–amygdala circuit was statistically abnormal in patients with BD and BDsib, but only the patients with BD demonstrated hypoactive GU bilaterally in the dlPFC and hyperactive GU bilaterally in the amygdala. Facilitating differentiation between the BD groups, the altered FC between dlPFC (right) and amygdala (left) was even more prominent in the patients with BD (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

There was a dysfunctional connection with intact GU in the dlPFC–amygdala circuit of the BDsib, which highlights the vulnerability in families with BD. Diminished top‐down control from the bilateral dlPFC, which prevents adequate inhibition of limbic hyperactivity, might mediate the development of BD.
Role of growth hormone in maturation and activation of dendritic cells via miR‐200a and the Keap1/Nrf2 pathway
Authors: Liu Qiu‐Liang , Zhang Jiao , Liu Xin , Gao Jing‐Yao
Published: August 2015

Objectives

Dendritic cells (DCs) are antigen‐presenting cells that participate in the immune response; recently, it has been reported that growth hormone (GH) promotes their maturation. The aim of this study was to investigate mechanisms by which GH acts on DC maturation and activation.

Materials and methods

Human peripheral blood monocytes (HPBMs) were induced to become immature DCs and treated with GH to obtain mature DCs. An osteosarcoma mouse model was established by injection of LM8 cells to investigate anti‐tumour effect of GH‐induced DCs in vivo.

Results

After administration of GH, DCs reduced miR‐200a expression and nuclear Nrf2 accumulation; miR‐200a down‐regulation inhibited DC maturation. Nrf2 ubiquitination level was increased by Keap1 overexpression in murine bone marrow derived dendritic cells (BMDCs), which was cancelled by miR‐200a in GH exposed cells. In vivo, tumour volume was significantly reduced by GH‐treated DCs and the effect was reversed by overexpression of miR‐200a.

Conclusions

GH promoted maturation and activation of DCs, and regulation of miR‐200a played a part in this process by modulation of the Keap1/Nrf2 pathway.
Subcutaneous sacral ependymoma – a histopathological challenge
Authors: Helbig Doris
Published: August 2015

Subcutaneous myxopapillary or sacral ependymoma are rare tumors mostly developing in children or adolescents. The majority occurs in the sacrococcygeal region. There are numerous clinical and histopathological differential diagnoses. Owing to the fact that there have been rare reported cases that followed an aggressive course and in which the patient succumbed to metastatic disease, long term follow‐up is necessary despite complete excision. We describe here a 25‐year‐old male patient with a histological unusual subcutaneous sacral ependymoma and discuss the differential diagnosis as well as treatment options.
Philanthronationalism: Junctures at the Business–Charity Nexus in Post‐war Sri Lanka
Authors: Widger Tom
Published: August 2015

Over the past few years, the role of private sector organizations as actors and investors in development processes has received increased attention. This article explores the rise of ‘philanthronationalism’ in Sri Lanka: the co‐development of business and philanthropy methods as a response to patronage, nationalization and militarization in the post‐war environment. Drawing on ethnographic research into indigenous forms of corporate social responsibility (CSR), the article identifies four kinds of philanthronationalist practice — passive, assimilative, reactive and collaborative — that provide a logic, mechanism and ethic for private sector development initiatives in the island whilst promoting a vision of the ‘Sinhala Buddhist’ nation state. Noting the emergence of similar philanthronationalist practices in Myanmar, the article concludes by arguing that the Sri Lankan case is unlikely to be unique and calls for further research into the partnerships that emerge between private philanthropy and nationalist movements in conflict/post‐conflict processes around the world.
Accessory cells for β‐cell transplantation
Authors: Staels W. , De Groef S. , Heremans Y. , Coppens V. , Van Gassen N. , Leuckx G. , Van de Casteele M. , Van Riet I. , Luttun A. , Heimberg H. , De Leu N.
Published: August 2015

Despite recent advances, insulin therapy remains a treatment, not a cure, for diabetes mellitus with persistent risk of glycaemic alterations and life‐threatening complications. Restoration of the endogenous β‐cell mass through regeneration or transplantation offers an attractive alternative. Unfortunately, signals that drive β‐cell regeneration remain enigmatic and β‐cell replacement therapy still faces major hurdles that prevent its widespread application. Co‐transplantation of accessory non‐islet cells with islet cells has been shown to improve the outcome of experimental islet transplantation. This review will highlight current travails in β‐cell therapy and focuses on the potential benefits of accessory cells for islet transplantation in diabetes.
Adipose tissue and metabolic syndrome: too much, too little or neither
Authors: Grundy Scott M.
Published: August 2015

Obesity is strongly associated with metabolic syndrome. Recent research suggests that excess adipose tissue plays an important role in development of the syndrome. On the other hand, persons with a deficiency of adipose tissue (e.g. lipodystrophy) also manifest the metabolic syndrome. In some animal models, expansion of adipose tissue pools mitigates adverse metabolic components (e.g. insulin resistance, hyperglycaemia and dyslipidemia). Hence, there are conflicting data as to whether adipose tissue worsens the metabolic syndrome or protects against it. This conflict may relate partly to locations of adipose tissue pools. For instance, lower body adipose tissue may be protective whereas upper body adipose tissue may promote the syndrome. One view holds that in either case, the accumulation of ectopic fat in muscle and liver is the driving factor underlying the syndrome. If so, there may be some link between adipose tissue fat and ectopic fat. But the mechanisms underlying this connection are not clear. A stronger association appears to exist between excessive caloric intake and ectopic fat accumulation. Adipose tissue may act as a buffer to reduce the impact of excess energy consumption by fat storage; but once a constant weight has been achieved, it is unclear whether adipose tissue influences levels of ectopic fat. Another mechanism whereby adipose tissue could worsen the metabolic syndrome is through release of adipokines. This is an intriguing mechanism, but the impact of adipokines on metabolic syndrome risk factors is uncertain. Thus, many potential connections between adipose tissue and metabolic syndrome remain to unravelled.
Technological Districts and the Financing of Innovation: Opportunities and Challenges for Local Banks
Authors: Arnone Massimo , Farina Gianluca , Modina Michele
Published: August 2015

The paper deals with the role that local banks (especially credit cooperative banks) might play in financially supporting the development of technological districts and innovative firms. After introducing the concept and features of technological districts, it focuses on the relations between districts and local banks and between the adoption of innovation and local banking. The central part is an econometric exercise aimed at measuring the weight of high value financial services over the income of a sample of Italian credit cooperative banks. Taking into account the cultural, managerial and organizational requirements of local banks, the work provides insights into how this category of banks can promote innovative financial services to help the development of high‐tech districts and maintain a competitive position in relation to the larger banks.
Resting‐state functional connectivity in the baboon model of genetic generalized epilepsy
Authors: Salinas Felipe S. , Szabó C. Ákos
Published: August 2015

Objective

The baboon provides a natural model of genetic generalized epilepsy (GGE). This study compares the intrinsic connectivity networks of epileptic and healthy control baboons using resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs‐fMRI) and data‐driven functional connectivity mapping.

Methods

Twenty baboons, matched for gender, age, and weight, were classified into two groups (10 epileptic [EPI], 10 control [CTL]) on the basis of scalp electroencephalography (EEG) findings. Each animal underwent one MRI session that acquired one 5‐min resting state fMRI scan and one anatomic MRI scan—used for registration and spatial normalization. Using independent component analysis, we identified 14 unique components/networks, which were then used to characterize each group's functional connectivity maps of each brain network.

Results

The epileptic group demonstrated network‐specific differences in functional connectivity when compared to the control animals. The sensitivity and specificity of the two groups' functional connectivity maps differed significantly in the visual, motor, amygdala, insular, and default mode networks. Significant increases were found in the occipital gyri of the epileptic group's functional connectivity map for the default mode, cingulate, intraparietal, motor, visual, amygdala, and thalamic regions.

Significance

This is the first study using resting‐state fMRI to demonstrate intrinsic functional connectivity differences between epileptic and control nonhuman primates. These results are consistent with seed‐based GGE studies in humans; however, our use of a data‐driven approach expands the scope of functional connectivity mapping to include brain regions/networks comprising the whole brain.
Evaluation of behavioral outcomes in children 1 year after epilepsy surgery
Authors: Law Nicole , Kerr Elizabeth , Smith Mary Lou
Published: August 2015

Objective

Children with epilepsy have elevated rates of behavior problems. Research findings on the impact of epilepsy surgery on children's behavior have been mixed, with some studies showing improvements in behavior 3 to 18 months after surgery and other studies finding no change within this time interval. We examined behavior in a large surgical sample and in a nonsurgical comparison group. We also examined for potential effects of epilepsy‐related and cognitive/linguistic variables.

Methods

Behavior was assessed by parent report in 147 children who underwent epilepsy surgery and 40 children who did not, using the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). For the surgical group, the CBCL was completed prior to surgery (baseline) and approximately 1 year after surgery (follow‐up); ratings of the nonsurgical group were also conducted twice, at comparable intervals.

Results

At baseline, the groups did not differ on age, sex, age at seizure onset, antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), or intelligence quotient (IQ). Baseline Social and Attention Problems were higher in the nonsurgical group. At follow‐up, 65% of the surgical group and 20% of the nonsurgical group were seizure‐free. Behavioral change was not related to surgical status or seizure outcome. Children with temporal lobe seizure focus had more Externalizing Behaviors compared to those with frontal or multilobar foci. Attention was poorer in children who underwent frontal lobe excisions relative to temporal or multilobar excisions. Baseline IQ did not predict behavioral change.

Significance

Our results suggest that surgery and seizure outcome do not affect behavior in the first year following surgery; it may be the abnormal neural substrate and not seizure control that influences behavior in children with epilepsy. If changes are to occur due to seizure freedom, they may require a longer time to emerge. Some behaviors may be resistant to change in children with epilepsy or may require even longer intervals for improvement.
Evaluation of poor performance in competition horses: A musculoskeletal perspective. Part 1: Clinical assessment
Authors: Dyson S.
Published: August 2015

Lack of willingness to go forward freely, lack of power, shortened steps, stiffness of the cervical or thoracolumbosacral regions are common nonspecific signs of musculoskeletal causes of poor performance in sports horses. Understanding musculoskeletal causes of poor performance requires knowledge of how normal horses move, the requirements of specific work disciplines, the nomenclature used by riders to describe how a horse is performing and the interactions between horses and riders. Determining the underlying causes needs an in‐depth history and clinical assessment, including in hand, on the lunge and ridden. Ridden exercise should include all aspects with which the rider is experiencing problems. Change of the rider can sometimes help to differentiate between horse and rider problems, but most normal horses are compliant and just because a horse goes better for a more skilled rider does not preclude an underlying pain‐related condition. Lungeing and ridden exercise should include not only trot but also transitions and canter which may highlight gait abnormalities not seen at trot. An accurate history combined with thorough clinical examination of the whole horse should permit the establishment of a list of problems requiring further investigation.
Assessment of dynamic upper respiratory tract function in the equine athlete
Authors: Franklin S. H. , Allen K. J.
Published: August 2015

Dynamic upper respiratory tract (URT) obstructions occur commonly in the equine athlete. During the past 25 years, veterinary diagnostic capabilities have improved greatly with the ability to perform endoscopy during exercise and thus to visualise upper airway function during various types of exercise. After correctly reproducing and diagnosing anURTobstruction, the veterinary surgeon must consider the functional significance of the endoscopic findings for that individual athlete. This is the third paper in this series and focuses on the diagnosis ofURTobstructions, their relationship to the exercise test and their functional significance.
A global proteomic study identifies distinct pathological features of IgG4‐related and primary sclerosing cholangitis
Authors: Zen Yoh , Britton David , Mitra Vikram , Pike Ian , Heaton Nigel , Quaglia Alberto
Published: August 2015

Aims

This combined proteomic and histopathological study was aimed to compare tissue characteristics of immunoglobulin (Ig)G4‐related sclerosing cholangitis (ISC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) in a global, non‐biased manner.

Methods and results

Tissue proteomes and phosphorylomes of frozen large bile duct samples were analysed by a conventional liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) protocol and additional phosphopeptide enrichment methods. The proteomic examination identified 23 373 peptides and 4870 proteins, including 4801 phosphopeptides and 1121 phosphoproteins. The expression profiles of phosphopeptides discriminated ISC from PSC more clearly than those of non‐phosphopeptides. In the pathway analysis, ISC was found to have 11 more activated signal cascades, including three immunological pathways, all B cell‐ or immunoglobulin‐related. On immunostaining, two immunological markers (FYN‐binding protein and allograft inflammatory factor‐1) up‐regulated in ISC were expressed mainly in M2 macrophages, consistent with increased phagocytotic activity induced by the immunoglobulin (Ig)G‐Fcγ receptor interaction. In contrast, PSC had two more activated signal pathways related to extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling. Filamin‐A involved in ECM remodelling was expressed aberrantly in injured bile ducts and associated cholangiocarcinomas in PSC, suggesting its possible roles in periductal fibrosis and carcinogenesis in PSC.

Conclusions

This study suggested crucial roles of B cells and macrophages in ISC, and more dynamic ECM remodelling in PSC.
Media effects on sustainable food consumption. How newspaper coverage relates to supermarket expenditures
Authors: Bellotti Elisa , Panzone Luca
Published: August 2015

Information provision is often considered to have an important role to play in changing consumers' choices. However, there is still no consensus on the mechanisms by which information might influence specific consumer expenditures, especially in relation to environmentally friendly food products. This paper explores whether the public debate on sustainable consumption in UK broadsheets and tabloids relates to observed consumers' expenditures. It does so by relating the number of published articles on selected sustainability topics to consumers' food expenditure in a leading UK supermarket from May 2009 to May 2011, using regression analysis. We selected only regular supermarket's shoppers who frequently buy the Sunday editions of the analyzed newspapers. Results indicate very sparse and inconsistent correlations suggesting that the impact of information is only minimally effective. The number of newspaper articles relates mainly to expenditures on organic, wholegrain and low salt products, possibly indicating a preference for healthy food. No consistent effects are observed when media target a change in more general food categories (e.g. a reduction in food of animal origin), although we observed some influence on purchases of fish. Finally, results indicate some correlations with purchases of meat for the readers of the Telegraph. In order to contextualize some of the results, we applied content analysis to a subsample of published articles on organic food. The qualitative approach shows that the framing of the news is important: change is positively related to information proposed uncritically; and negatively to information contextualized as a highly structured debate.
Video‐based Testing: A high‐fidelity job simulation that demonstrates reliability, validity, and utility
Authors: Cucina Jeffrey M. , Su Chihwei , Busciglio Henry H. , Harris Thomas Patricia , Thompson Peyton Sharron
Published: August 2015

A conceptual rationale is presented for the use of a high‐fidelity simulation: a video‐based test (VBT), in which applicants view job‐related scenarios, respond orally, and are later scored on five dimensions by trained raters. Using applicant data, we empirically investigate the criterion‐related validity, reliability, and utility of the VBT. Overall, we found that the VBT predicted performance in training and on the job. In addition, different raters strongly agreed with one another on each applicant's scores. Despite somewhat higher development costs, the VBT demonstrated high utility. We suggest that organizations consider the use of VBTs as a selection instrument for jobs that require the use of applied social and interpersonal skills.
Employment Qualifications, Person–Job Fit, Underemployment Attributions, and Hiring Recommendations: A three‐study investigation
Authors: Thompson Katina W. , Sikora David M. , Perrewé Pamela L. , Ferris Gerald R.
Published: August 2015

Using an experimental design across three studies and four samples, we investigated the effects of employment qualification level (i.e., underqualified, adequately qualified, or overqualified) on hiring recommendations, and how the relationship was influenced by person–job (P‐J) fit and underemployment attributions. In Study 1, we tested and found support for the strength and effectiveness of the employment qualification level manipulation. In Study 2, the results demonstrated that overqualified applicants received higher ratings on objective P‐J fit, subjective P‐J fit, and hiring recommendations than underqualified applicants. Also, overqualified applicants were rated higher on objective and subjective P‐J fit than adequately qualified applicants. However, the results indicated no significant differences between adequately qualified and overqualified applicants on hiring recommendations. Finally, P‐J fit was found to fully mediate the employment qualification level–hiring recommendation relationship, but only subjective P‐J fit (i.e., and not objective P‐J fit) was a significant mediator. In Study 3, we assessed the potential effects of underemployment attribution (i.e., internal‐controllable vs. external‐uncontrollable) on interviewer hiring recommendation. Results demonstrated that applicants who made an external‐uncontrollable attribution for their overqualification were perceived negatively and received lower ratings on hiring recommendations than applicants who made an internal‐controllable attribution for their underemployment. Furthermore, the underemployment attribution‐hiring recommendation relationship was found to be fully mediated by subjective (but not objective) P‐J fit. Contributions of these results to theory, research, and practice, strengths and limitations, and directions for future research are discussed.
Applicant Anxiety: Examining the sex‐linked anxiety coping theory in job interview contexts
Authors: Feeney Justin R. , McCarthy Julie M. , Goffin Richard
Published: August 2015

The Sex‐linked Anxiety Coping Theory (SCT) suggests that anxiety should relate to performance more strongly for males than females. In Study 1, we examined how the theory applied to five interview anxiety dimensions (appearance anxiety, behavioral anxiety, communication anxiety, performance anxiety, and social anxiety) using actual job applicants. In general, females reported higher levels of each type of interview anxiety than did males. However, consistent with SCT, Overall Interview Anxiety, Appearance Anxiety, and Social Anxiety demonstrated stronger negative relations with interview performance for males than for females. Consistent with the SCT, in Study 2 we found that females had more effective coping orientations for job interviews than did males.
Why Do Firms in Customer–Supplier Relationships Hold More Cash?
Authors: Bae Kee‐Hong , Wang Jin
Published: August 2015

A firm is in customer–supplier relationships when its business depends on a small number of major customers/suppliers. In this paper, we provide evidence that relationship‐specific investments undertaken by firms in customer–supplier relationships are associated with high cash holdings in these firms. The evidence is consistent with the prediction of Titman's stakeholder theory that a firm relying on relationship‐specific investments maintains a high cash reserve as a cushion to sustain its relationship‐specific investments when negative shocks occur. Our findings suggest that relationship‐specific investments are important determinants of the precautionary motive to hold cash.
Bidder's Gain: Evidence from Termination Returns
Authors: Tang Tilan
Published: August 2015

In most cases, bidder's stock returns around merger announcement convey more information than the synergy created from the acquisition. To overcome the interpretation problem, I study the bidder's return from the perspective of deal termination. Using a hand‐collected dataset on terminated merger proposals, I investigate termination returns in deals canceled for reasons unrelated to the bidder's stand‐alone valuation. I find that bidder's gain varies significantly with the type of target acquired. Further evidence suggests that the liquidity need of private target significantly contributes to the positive gain to the bidder.
Detection and characterization of respiratory viruses causing acute respiratory illness and asthma exacerbation in children during three different seasons (2011–2014) in Mexico City
Authors: Moreno‐Valencia Yazmin , Hernandez‐Hernandez Victor A. , Romero‐Espinoza Jose A. I. , Coronel‐Tellez Rodrigo H. , Castillejos‐Lopez Manuel , Hernandez Andres , Perez‐Padilla Rogelio , Alejandre‐Garcia Alejandro , de la Rosa‐Zamboni Daniela , Ormsby Christopher E. , Vazquez‐Perez Joel A.
Published: August 2015

Background

Viral infections play a significant role in causing acute respiratory infections (ARIs) and exacerbations of chronic diseases. Acute respiratory infections are now the leading cause of mortality in children worldwide, especially in developing countries. Recently, human rhinovirus (HRV) infection has been emerged as an important cause of pneumonia and asthma exacerbation.

Objectives

To determine the role of several viral agents principally, respiratory syncytial virus, and HRV in children with ARIs and their relationship with asthma exacerbation and pneumonia.

Methods

Between October 2011 and March 2014, 432 nasopharyngeal samples of children <15 years of age with ARI hospitalized at a referral hospital for respiratory diseases were tested for the presence of respiratory viruses using a multiplex RT‐qPCR. Clinical, epidemiological, and demographic data were collected and associated with symptomatology and viral infections.

Results

Viral infections were detected in at least 59·7% of the enrolled patients, with HRV (26·6%) being the most frequently detected. HRV infections were associated with clinical features of asthma and difficulty in breathing such as wheezing (P = 0·0003), supraesternal (P = 0·046), and xiphoid retraction (P = 0·030). HRV subtype C (HRV‐C) infections were associated with asthma (P = 0·02).

Conclusions

Human rhinovirus was the virus most commonly detected in pediatric patients with ARI. There is also an association of HRV‐C infection with asthma exacerbation, emphasizing the relevance of this virus in severe pediatric respiratory disease.
Vitamin C promotes wound healing through novel pleiotropic mechanisms
Authors: Mohammed Bassem M , Fisher Bernard J , Kraskauskas Donatas , Ward Susan , Wayne Jennifer S , Brophy Donald F , Fowler Alpha A , Yager Dorne R , Natarajan Ramesh
Published: August 2015

Vitamin C (VitC) or ascorbic acid (AscA), a cofactor for collagen synthesis and a primary antioxidant, is rapidly consumed post‐wounding. Parenteral VitC administration suppresses pro‐inflammatory responses while promoting anti‐inflammatory and pro‐resolution effects in human/murine sepsis. We hypothesised that VitC could promote wound healing by altering the inflammatory, proliferative and remodelling phases of wound healing. Mice unable to synthesise VitC (Gulo−/−) were used in this study. VitC was provided in the water (sufficient), withheld from another group (deficient) and supplemented by daily intra‐peritoneal infusion (200 mg/kg, deficient + AscA) in a third group. Full thickness excisional wounds (6 mm) were created and tissue collected on days 7 and 14 for histology, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and Western blotting. Human neonatal dermal fibroblasts (HnDFs) were used to assess effects of In conclusion, VitC favorably on proliferation. Histological analysis showed improved wound matrix deposition and organisation in sufficient and deficient +AscA mice. Wounds from VitC sufficient and deficient + AscA mice had reduced expression of pro‐inflammatory mediators and higher expression of wound healing mediators. Supplementation of HnDF with AscA induced the expression of self‐renewal genes and promoted fibroblast proliferation. VitC favourably impacts the spatiotemporal expression of transcripts associated with early resolution of inflammation and tissue remodelling.