bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management style in kibbutz industries
Authors: Moskovich Yaffa
Published: November 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to develop a managerial style typology relevant to kibbutz industry analysis and applicable to all cooperative organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applied qualitative methods to evaluate the organizational biographies of Factories five factories, using open interviews and document analysis.

Findings

The findings show that before privatization took place, these industries were managed according to socialistic democratic principles. Once they became global and capitalistic, some kibbutz industries adopted a business cooperative style that combines features of capitalism and socialism, while others underwent a crisis and opted for a stricter and more bureaucratic managerial style.

Research limitations/implications

This research is based on five case studies; further research is recommended to establish the current typology.

Practical implications

This study shows very clearly that the cooperative business style can be offered for businesses previously operated according to socialistic principles.

Originality/value

This study augments current literature by elucidating the speed with which business activity is conducted according to cooperative principles. It presents a typology relevant to kibbutz industry and cooperative organizations alike, addressing the cooperative managerial, cooperative business and bureaucratic styles, enabling maintenance of normative management that adapts itself to global and capitalistic environments.
Creditworthiness and access to finance: a study of SMEs in the Malaysian manufacturing industry
Authors: Wasiuzzaman Shaista , Nurdin Nabila , Abdullah Aznur Hajar , Vinayan Gowrie
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to empirically assess the relationship between the dimensions of creditworthiness and access to finance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Malaysia, with creditworthiness as the mediating variable. The lack of empirical research on the relationship between creditworthiness and access to finance forms the motivation of this study.

Design/methodology/approach

Questionnaires covering various characteristics of the firms, their access to finance and creditworthiness were distributed to a total of 456 SMEs in the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor region for this purpose. A total of 158 responses were returned, of which 145 were usable responses and the relationships are tested using SEM-PLS.

Findings

This study finds that an SME and its owner’s character have significant influences on access to finance. An SME’s condition and its ability to provide high quality collateral are found to be highly significant in influencing its access to finance. Capacity is significant but its significance is low, while capital is insignificant. Creditworthiness has a significant positive influence on access to finance.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the important yet under-researched issue of access to finance for SMEs. It highlights the issue of character of applicant as an important dimension of creditworthiness that can significantly influence access to finance for SMEs.
Legitimized identity vs identifiable legitimacy
Authors: Xiu Lin , Lu Feng , Liang Xin
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Organizational identity and organizational legitimacy are related constructs, but comprehensive studies of the relationship have been lacking in the literature of organizational studies. This paper aims to propose a framework that includes four possible relationships between organizational legitimacy and identity.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors evaluate the causes of each of these relationships and an important consequence of the relationship: their influences on organizational adaptation.

Findings

With a series of propositions, the authors make a tentative, but valuable, move toward integrating two broad streams of social perspective of organizing, institutional theory and organizational identity and call for research efforts in this direction.

Originality/value

The paper is the first one that explores the relationship between organizational identity and organizational legitimacy in a comprehensive way.
Crisis responses in public hospitals: case studies in Hong Kong
Authors: Wut Tai-ming
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the medical incident responses from two public hospitals in Hong Kong, namely, Kowloon Hospital and Caritas Medical Centre, in order to improve the strategic preparation for crisis management in hospitals.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper analyses two medical incidents using Situational Crisis Communication Theory by Coombs (2007). The two case studies presented herein demonstrate the importance of consistency in terms of crisis responses.

Findings

For the first case, the crisis responses from different parties after the incident, including Hospital Authority, the doctor and the nurses from Kowloon Hospital, are contradicting to each other. First, Hospital Authority confirmed that the incident is solely an accident which is a denial response. Second, the doctor passed the responsibility to the nurses which is a scapegoating response. Third, the nurses tend to reduce the responsibility for the death of patient by excusing strategy. As a whole, their responses are inconsistent to each other. For the second case, Caritas had initially denied the responsibilities, but finally had given partial apology under public pressure. That makes people think that Caritas does not really regret.

Originality/value

Rebuilding posture should be used instead of denial and diminishment posture. However, public organization and civil servants are reluctant to use a full apology due to possible legal consequences. The apology ordinance would ease the pressure to express regret and sympathy.
Omni-channel users and omni-channel customers: a segmentation analysis using distribution services
Authors: Cortiñas Monica , Chocarro Raquel , Elorz Margarita
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Consumers are increasingly combining distribution channels, thus displaying so-called omni-channel behavior, both to complete a given purchase and between purchases. The authors make a distinction between omni-channel customers, who make use of distribution services in both channels and omni-channel users, who make partial use of the distribution services of one channel to support purchases in another. This paper aims to identify the omni-channel behavior among the customers of a global fast fashion retailer dealing in a wide range of apparel and clothing accessories.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a multinomial logit model, the authors perform a customer segmentation based on observed omni-channel behavior, considering the explanatory roles of demographics, distribution service features and customer service policies across the different retail channels.

Findings

The authors observe that the key retail channel features for explaining omni-channel customer behavior are product accessibility, both in store and online; the assurance that goods purchased online will satisfy the customer’s needs and expectations; and the option to return goods found unsatisfactory.

Practical implications

The results clearly show that the nature of the visits and purchases made by customers is determined by various components of the companýs customer service policy, which can, therefore, be used to guide the retailer’s segmentation strategy.

Originality/value

Future lines of research should explore the economic implications of this customer segmentation. The price perception data emerging from our findings suggest a greater sensitivity to prices in the mono-channel segment, which might be worth exploring in future research.

Future research

Future lines of research should explore the economic implications of this customer segmentation. The price perception data emerging from our findings suggest a greater sensitivity to prices in the mono-channel segment which might be worth exploring in future research.
Catechins and Caffeine Promote Lipid Metabolism and Heat Production Through the Transformation of Differentiated 3T3‐L1 Adipocytes from White to Beige Adipocytes
Authors: Sugiura Chikako , Zheng Guodong , Liu Litong , Sayama Kazutoshi
Published: November 2019

To elucidate effects of catechins and caffeine on lipid metabolism in adipocytes and identify the mechanism of action, differentiated 3T3‐L1 adipocytes were incubated in culture media containing catechins at 1, 2.5, 5, and 10 µg/mL and caffeine at 50 and 100 µg/mL, singly or in combination, for 8 days. Intracellular lipid accumulation and glycerol‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase activity were strongly suppressed by catechins and caffeine combination treatment. The mRNA expression of PPARɤ, GLUT4, HSL, UCP‐1, and TMEM26 were significantly increased in the combined groups. These findings suggest that the combined treatment inhibited lipid synthesis and improved lipid metabolism in adipocytes. Moreover, it was indicated that the differentiated 3T3‐L1 adipocytes could be transformed from white adipocytes to beige‐like adipocytes by catechins and caffeine, and accordingly that this transformation could promote calorigenic action.

Practical Application

In this study, we revealed that the combined treatment of catechins and caffeine inhibited lipid synthesis and improved lipid metabolism in adipocytes. Moreover, the treatment may contribute to the transforming from white adipocytes to beige‐like adipocytes, which could strongly promote calorigenic action.
Branding Angelica: Reputation Management in Late Eighteenth‐Century England
Authors: Vickery Amanda
Published: November 2019

Reputation management is a contemporary offshoot of public relations, but reputation has long had economic currency in British culture. Less well studied is the way commercial reputation consolidated around ideas of the brand. This case study of the London career of the Swiss‐born artist Angelica Kauffman (1741‐1807) examines the development of the ‘Angelica' brand: from stage‐managed debut, studio establishment and performance, and self‐promotion through self‐portraiture to market positioning, diffusion lines and pricing strategy. It tests the success of Kauffman's efforts by examining critical reception, consumer response and, finally, damage limitation, concluding that the Angelica brand was the painter's cleverest creation.
Taiwan Rheumatology Association consensus recommendations for the management of axial spondyloarthritis
Authors: Wei James Cheng‐Chung , Liu Chin‐Hsiu , Tseng Jui‐Cheng , Hsieh Lin‐Fen , Chen Chun‐Hsiung , Chen Hsin‐Hua , Chen Hung‐An , Chen Ying‐Chou , Chou Chung‐Tei , Liao Hsien‐Tzung , Lin Yi‐Chun , Luo Shue‐Fen , Yang Deng‐Ho , Yeo Kai‐Jieh , Tsai Wen‐Chan ,   on behalf of the Taiwan Rheumatology Association (TRA)
Published: November 2019

Aim

To establish guidelines for the clinical management of axial spondyloarthritis that take into account local issues and clinical practice concerns for Taiwan.

Method

Overarching principles and recommendations were established by consensus among a panel of rheumatology and rehabilitation experts, based on analysis of the most up‐to‐date clinical evidence and the clinical experience of panelists. All Overarching Principles and Recommendations were graded according to the standards developed by the Oxford Centre for Evidence Based Medicine, and further evaluated and modified using the Delphi method.

Results

The guidelines specifically address issues such as local medical considerations, National Health Insurance reimbursement, and management of extra‐articular manifestations.

Conclusion

It is hoped that this will help to optimize clinical management outcomes for axial spondyloarthritis in Taiwan.
Successful treatment of an elderly patient with an uncommon L861Q epidermal growth factor receptor mutation with low‐dose afatinib: A case report
Authors: Iida Yuko , Kumasawa Fumio , Shimizu Tetsuo , Shintani Yoshitaka , Takahashi Noriaki , Gon Yasuhiro
Published: November 2019

There are limited data on the clinical efficiency of afatinib in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with uncommon epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations. Moreover, the efficacy and safety of afatinib in elderly patients with these mutations has not been established. Here, we describe a case of successful treatment of a patient aged >80 years with lung adenocarcinoma positive for the uncommon EGFR L861Q mutation with low‐dose afatinib. An 83‐year‐old woman presented with cough and dyspnea. A chest computed tomography (CT) scan revealed tumors in the left upper lobe, left pleural effusion, and multiple lung metastases in both lungs. The patient was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma with an EGFR L861Q mutation based on cytological findings. The patient received 30 mg/day of afatinib and experienced no severe adverse events. Two weeks later, partial response was observed based on a CT scan. The results of the present case support the effectiveness and safety of low‐dose afatinib in elderly patients with EGFR L861Q mutation‐positive NSCLC.
Collaborative implementation of stereotactic ablative body radiotherapy: A model for the safe implementation of complex radiotherapy techniques in Australia
Authors: Hau Eric , Hegi‐Johnson Fiona , Atkinson Charlotte , Barber Jeffrey , Browne Lois H , Chin Yaw , Dwyer Patrick , Graham Peter H , O'Hare Jolyne , Lu Dan , Rains Melissa , Ragusa Carolina , Schmidth Laurel , Small Katherine , Unicomb Kylie , West Katrina , White Sean , Last Andrew , Ludbrook Jane , Azzi Maria , Aherne Noel J , Van Tilburg Kevin , Vinod Shalini , Ma Xiaobing , Yeghiaian Alvandi Roland
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) for lung cancer is a modality of treatment that has improved outcomes for lung cancer patients. However, radiotherapy for lung cancer is underutilized and fewer than half of elderly patients with non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) receive active treatment. The purpose of this study is to report on a collaboration in implementing an NSCLC SABR (stereotactic ablative body radiation) program safely, efficiently, and uniformly across several centers, including regional sites. The first aim of this paper is to detail the collaboration and implementation that started in 2013 and is ongoing. The second aim of this paper is to document early toxicities and quality of life outcomes.

Method

A tripartite approach was used to develop the protocol and networks required for the implementation of SABR across multiple sites in NSW. Departments starting the programmes were supported and physics credentialing with central site submission was required before commencing the treatment. Additional ongoing support was available via an email discussion group involving all members of the collaboration.

Results

Between July 22, 2013 and February 22, 2016, 41 patients were enrolled with 34 patients in active follow up. The toxicity profile so far is similar to those of published studies with no appreciable effect on quality of life outcomes.

Conclusion

The collaboration formed an effective framework in facilitating the implementation of SABR across several sites in NSW and could be used as a model for the safe and uniform implementation of new technologies in Australia.
SMPs’ Strategic Responses to Conflicting Normative, Material and Client Constraints
Authors: Malo Angélique , Fortin Anne , Héroux Sylvie
Published: November 2019

The objective of this study is to understand how small and medium audit practices (SMPs) deal with the obligation to conform to evolving norms, given their limited resources and the fact that they serve a client base of mainly small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs). Semi‐structured interviews held with 36 respondents working in 33 SMPs revealed that the main response of some SMPs’ to conflicting normative, material and client constraints was to eliminate the normative constraints by exiting the field to which the constraints pertained. When this was impossible, they resorted to less radical strategies. All strategies eventually led to adverse effects, including loss of expertise by some firms and practitioners, a condition that exacerbates the fragmentation within the accounting profession. Disenchanted by an increasingly demanding normative environment, the majority of respondents dealt with their disillusionment by mechanically applying the updates, a process that can lead to lower audit quality. Although the accounting profession was attempting to overcome a confidence crisis by issuing the updates, it ended up ignoring its less visible members and thus triggered upheavals with potentially irreversible consequences. In addition, banks may have been involved in narrowing the audit market for SMPs.
Impact of the pharmacist‐led intervention on the control of medical cardiovascular risk factors for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease in general practice: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Alshehri Abdullah A. , Jalal Zahraa , Cheema Ejaz , Haque M. Sayeed , Jenkins Duncan , Yahyouche Asma
Published: November 2019

Aims

To conduct a systematic review and meta‐analysis of the effectiveness of general practice‐based pharmacist interventions in reducing the medical risk factors for the primary prevention of cardiovascular events.

Methods

A systemic search was undertaken in 8 databases: PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBAS, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, CINAHL Plus, SCOPUS and Science Citation Index, with no start date up to 27 March 2019. Randomised controlled trials assessing the effectiveness of pharmacist‐led interventions delivered in the general practice in reducing the medical risk factors of cardiovascular events were included in the review. The risk of bias in the studies was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool.

Results

A total of 1604 studies were identified, with 21 randomised controlled trials (8933 patients) meeting the inclusion criteria. Fourteen studies were conducted in patients with diabetes, 7 in hypertension, 2 involving dyslipidaemia, and 2 with hypertension and diabetes together. The most frequently used interventions were medication review and medication management. The quality of the included studies was variable. Patients receiving pharmacist‐led interventions were associated with a statistically significant reduction in their systolic blood pressure (−9.33 mmHg [95% Confidence Interval (CI) −13.36 to −5.30]), haemoglobin A1C (−0.76% [95% CI −1.15 to −0.37]) and low‐density lipoprotein–cholesterol (−15.19 mg/dL [95% CI −24.05 to −6.33]). Moreover, practice‐based pharmacists' interventions were also reported to have a positive impact on patient adherence to medications.

Conclusion

The findings of this review suggest that pharmacist‐led interventions in general practice can significantly reduce the medical risk factors of cardiovascular disease events. These findings support the involvement of pharmacists as healthcare providers in managing patients with hypertension, diabetes and dyslipidaemia.
Birt‐Hogg‐Dubé syndrome‐associated renal cell carcinoma: Histopathological features and diagnostic conundrum
Authors: Furuya Mitsuko , Hasumi Hisashi , Yao Masahiro , Nagashima Yoji
Published: November 2019

Birt‐Hogg‐Dubé (BHD) syndrome is associated with the development of hereditary renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and is caused by a germline mutation in the folliculin gene. Most cases of BHD syndrome‐associated RCC (BHD‐RCC) are less aggressive than sporadic clear cell RCC and multifocal. Therefore, it is critical to distinguish BHD‐RCC from its sporadic counterparts to identify and monitor affected families and to preserve renal function for as long as possible. The World Health Organization/International Society of Urological Pathology consensus classification defined distinct entities for certain hereditary RCC; however, BHD‐RCC was not included in this classification. Although the clinical features and molecular mechanisms of BHD‐RCC have been investigated intensively over the last two decades, pathologists and urologists occasionally face difficulties in the diagnosis of BHD‐RCC that require genetic testing. Affected patients usually have miscellaneous benign disorders that often precede renal carcinogenesis. In the present review, we summarize the current understanding of the histopathological features of BHD‐RCC based on our epidemiological studies of Japanese families and a literature review. Pathological diagnostic clues and differential diagnosis of BHD‐RCC from other hereditary RCC are also briefly discussed.
miR‐30e‐5p represses angiogenesis and metastasis by directly targeting AEG‐1 in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck
Authors: Zhang Shuiting , Li Guo , Liu Chao , Lu Shanhong , Jing Qiancheng , Chen Xiyu , Zheng Hua , Ma Huiling , Zhang Diekuo , Ren Shuling , Shen Zhe , Wang Yunyun , Lu Zhaoyi , Huang Donghai , Tan Pingqing , Chen Jie , Zhang Xin , Qiu Yuanzheng , Liu Yong
Published: November 2019

Metastasis is a critical determinant for the treatment strategy and prognosis in patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN). However, the mechanisms underlying SCCHN metastasis are poorly understood. Our study sought to determine the key microRNA and their functional mechanisms involved in SCCHN metastasis. For The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) data analysis, quantitative PCR was used to quantify the level of miR‐30e‐5p in SCCHN and its clinical significance was further analyzed. A series of in vitro and in vivo experiments were applied to determine the effects of miR‐30e‐5p and its target AEG‐1 on SCCHN metastasis. A mechanism investigation further revealed that AEG‐1 was implicated in the angiogenesis and metastasis mediated by miR‐30e‐5p. Overall, our study confirms that miR‐30e‐5p is a valuable predictive biomarker and potential therapeutic target in SCCHN metastasis.
Immunological mechanisms underpinning faecal microbiota transplantation for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Quraishi M N , Shaheen W , Oo Y H , Iqbal T H
Published: November 2019

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic gastrointestinal disease that results from a dysregulated immune response against specific environmental triggers in a genetically predisposed individual. Increasing evidence has indicated a causal role for changes in gut microbiota (dysbiosis) contributing to this immune-mediated intestinal inflammation. These mechanisms involve dysregulation of multiple facets of the host immune pathways that are potentially reversible. Faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is the transfer of processed stool from a healthy donor into an individual with an illness. FMT has shown promising results in both animal model experiments and clinical studies in IBD in the resolution of intestinal inflammation. The underlying mechanisms, however, are unclear. Insights from these studies have shown interactions between modulation of dysbiosis via changes in abundances of specific members of the gut microbial community and changes in host immunological pathways. Unravelling these causal relationships has promising potential for a translational therapy role to develop targeted microbial therapies and understand the mechanisms that underpin IBD aetiopathogenesis. In this review, we discuss current evidence for the contribution of gut microbiota in the disruption of intestinal immune homeostasis and immunoregulatory mechanisms that are associated with the resolution of inflammation through FMT in IBD.
Interactions of the microbiota with the mucosal immune system
Authors: Bain C C , Cerovic V
Published: November 2019

The field of mucosal immunology has, for the last 10 years, been largely dominated by advances in our understanding of the commensal microbiota. Developments of novel experimental methodologies and analysis techniques have provided unparalleled insight into the profound impact the microbiota has on the development and function of the immune system. In this cross-journal review series published in Immunology and Clinical and Experimental Immunology, we aim to summarize the current state of research concerning the interplay between the microbiota and mucosal immunity. In addition, the series examines how the increased understanding of the microbiota is changing the nature of immunological research, both in the laboratory and in the clinic.
Longitudinal anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) seroconversion in systemic lupus erythematosus: a prospective study of Swedish cases with recent-onset disease
Authors: Frodlund M , Wetterö J , Dahle C , Dahlström Ö , Skogh T , Rönnelid J , Sjöwall C
Published: November 2019

Serum immunoglobulin (Ig)G anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA) detected by indirect immunofluorescence (IF) microscopy remains a hallmark of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Whether or not IF-ANA status varies over time is controversial. We therefore designed a prospective study with longitudinal follow-up of patients with recent-onset SLE. The study population consisted of 54 recently diagnosed SLE cases, all meeting the 1982 American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and/or the 2012 Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics (SLICC) criteria. Clinical follow-up data, including disease activity, organ damage and sera, were collected from clinical onset of SLE and onwards, in most cases yearly (0‒96 months). IF-ANA was analysed on human epithelial cells-2 (HEp-2) cells and categorized regarding staining patterns. Using an addressable laser bead assay (FIDIS™ Connective profile), we measured IgG-ANA fine specificities against Ro52/SSA, Ro60/SSA, Sjögren’s syndrome type B antigen (La/SSB), Smith antigen (Sm), Smith antigen/ribonucleoprotein (Sm/RNP), U1 RNP (U1RNP), dsDNA, ribosomal-P protein and histone. At baseline, all patients were judged ANA-positive at an abnormal titre corresponding to the 95th percentile of healthy blood donors, but seven of 54 patients (13%) lost ANA-positivity over time. Homogeneous (AC-1; 46%) and speckled (AC-4 or 5; 31%) were the most frequently observed patterns at inclusion, whereas 7% switched pattern at least once during follow-up. Established associations between ANA fine specificities and clinical data were confirmed. Levels of anti-Sm/RNP, but not of anti-dsDNA, correlated with clinical disease activity [modified SLE disease activity 2000 (mSLEDAI-2K)]. Our data indicate that a considerable proportion of Swedish patients with SLE lose ANA-positivity over time, whereas consistent staining patterns were frequent. The clinical and mechanistic relevance of ANA seroconversion remains uncertain. Further prospective evaluations in larger SLE populations with more diverse ethnicities are warranted.
RAS: A Data‐Driven Rigidity‐Aware Skinning Model For 3D Facial Animation
Authors: Liu S‐L. , Liu Y. , Dong L‐F. , Tong X.
Published: November 2019

We present a novel data‐driven skinning model—rigidity‐aware skinning (RAS) model, for simulating both active and passive 3D facial animation of different identities in real time. Our model builds upon a linear blend skinning (LBS) scheme, where the bone set and skinning weights are shared for diverse identities and learned from the data via a sparse and localized skinning decomposition algorithm. Our model characterizes the animated face into the active expression and the passive deformation: The former is represented by an LBS‐based multi‐linear model learned from the FaceWareHouse data set, and the latter is represented by a spatially varying as‐rigid‐as‐possible deformation applied to the LBS‐based multi‐linear model, whose rigidity parameters are learned from the data by a novel rigidity estimation algorithm. Our RAS model is not only generic and expressive for faithfully modelling medium‐scale facial deformation, but also compact and lightweight for generating vivid facial animation in real time. We validate the efficiency and effectiveness of our RAS model for real‐time 3D facial animation and expression editing.
Phylogenetic structure of angiosperm trees in local forest communities along latitudinal and elevational gradients in eastern North America
Authors: Qian Hong , Zhang Jian , Sandel Brody , Jin Yi
Published: November 2019

Latitudinal and elevational gradients both represent thermal gradients. Assessing the consistency of the relationships between phylogenetic structure and climate between latitudinal and elevational gradients can provide insight into the mechanisms driving assembly of species from regional pools into local assemblages. The aim of this study is to compare patterns of phylogenetic structure measures for angiosperm tree species between latitudinal and elevational gradients, using a dataset of angiosperm tree species in 14 092 forest plots in eastern North America. We assessed whether these two gradients produce similar relationships between climate and phylogenetic structure, hypothesizing that they should differ in magnitude but not direction. We used correlation and regression analyses to assess the relation of measures of phylogenetic structure to elevation, latitude and climatic variables, which included minimum temperature, temperature seasonality, annual precipitation and precipitation seasonality. We found that 1) phylogenetic relatedness of angiosperm trees increases with decreasing temperature along both latitudinal and elevational gradients but the relationship between phylogenetic relatedness and temperature is steeper for elevational gradients than for latitudinal gradients; 2) the tip‐weighted metric of phylogenetic relatedness (nearest taxon index) is more strongly correlated with climatic variables than the basal‐weighted metric of phylogenetic relatedness (net relatedness index); 3) winter cold temperature exerts a stronger effect on community assembly of angiosperm trees than does temperature seasonality. These results suggest that winter cold temperature, rather than temperature seasonality, drives phylogenetic structure of plants in local forest communities, and that species distributions along elevational gradients are more in equilibrium with temperature, compared with those along latitudinal gradients.
Dispersal strategies of juvenile pike (Esox luciusL.): Influences and consequences for body size, somatic growth and trophic position
Authors: Nyqvist Marina J. , Cucherousset Julien , Gozlan Rodolphe E. , Beaumont William R.C. , Britton J. Robert
Published: November 2019

Individual variability in dispersal strategies, where some individuals disperse and others remain resident, is a common phenomenon across many species. Despite its important ecological consequences, the mechanisms and individual consequences of dispersal remain poorly understood. Here, riverine Northern pike (Esox lucius) juveniles (age 0+ (young‐of‐the‐year) and 1+ years) were used to investigate the influence of body size and trophic position (at capture) on the dispersal from off‐channel natal habitats and the subsequent consequences for body sizes, specific growth rate and trophic position (at recapture). Individuals that dispersed into the river (“dispersers”) were not significantly different in body size than those remaining on nursery grounds (“stayers”). For trophic position, 0+ dispersers were of significantly lower trophic position than stayers, but with this not apparent in the 1+ fish. Following dispersal into the river, the dispersers grew significantly faster than stayers and, on recapture, were significantly larger, but with no significant differences in their final trophic positions. Early dispersal into the river was, therefore, not associated with early dietary shifts to piscivory and the attainment of larger body sizes of individuals whilst in their natal habitats, contrary to prediction. These results suggest that despite an increasing risk of mortality for individuals dispersing early from natal areas, there are long‐term benefits via elevated growth rates and, potentially, higher fitness. Such early dispersal behaviour could be driven by early competitive displacement.
Alarm communication networks as a driver of community structure in African savannah herbivores
Authors: Meise Kristine , Franks Daniel W. , Bro‐Jørgensen Jakob
Published: November 2019

Social information networks have the potential to shape the spatial structure of ecological communities by promoting the formation of mixed‐species groups. However, what actually drives social affinity between species in the wild will depend on the characteristics of the species available to group. Here we first present an agent‐based model that predicts trait‐related survival benefits from mixed‐species group formation in a multi‐species community and we then test the model predictions in a community‐wide field study of African savannah herbivores using multi‐layered network analysis. We reveal benefits from information transfer about predators as a key determinant of mixed‐species group formation, and that dilution benefits alone are not enough to explain patterns in interspecific sociality. The findings highlight the limitations of classical ecological approaches focusing only on direct trophic interactions when analysing community structure and suggest that declines in species occupying central social network positions, such as key informants, can have significant repercussions throughout communities.
Stock market anomalies and baseball cards
Authors: Engelberg Joseph , Thompson Linh , Williams Jared
Published: November 2019

Baseball cards exhibit anomalies that are analogous to those that are documented in financial markets, namely, momentum, price drift in the direction of past fundamental performance, and initial public offering (IPO) underperformance. Momentum is higher among active players than retired players, and among newer sets than older sets. Regarding IPO underperformance, we find that newly issued rookie cards underperform newly issued cards of veteran players, and that newly issued sets underperform older sets. The results are broadly consistent with models of slow information diffusion and short‐selling constraints.
A carbon‐nanofiber glass composite with high electrical conductivity
Authors: Tao Guangming , Chen Shi , Pandey Sudeep J. , Tan Felix A. , Ebendorff‐Heidepriem Heike , Molinari Michael , Abouraddy Ayman F. , Gaume Romain M.
Published: November 2019

The use of oxide glasses is pervasive throughout everyday amenities and commodities. Such glasses are typically electrical insulators, and endowing them with electrical conductivity—without changing their salutary mechanical properties, weight, or thermoformability—enables new applications in multifunctional utensils, smart windows, and automotive parts. Previous strategies to impart electrical conductivity include modifying the glass composition or forming a solid‐in‐solid composite of the glass and a conductive phase. Here, we demonstrate—using the latter strategy—the highest reported room‐temperature electrical conductivity in a bulk oxide glass (~1800 S/m) corresponding to the theoretical limit for the loading fraction of the conductive phase. This is achieved through glass sintering of a mixture of carbon nanofibers (CNFs) and oxide flint (F2) or soda‐lime glasses, with the bulk conductivity further enhanced by a polyethylene‐block‐poly(ethylene glycol) additive. A theoretical model provides predictions that are in excellent agreement with the dependence of conductivity of these composites on the carbon‐loading fraction. Moreover, nanoscale electrical characterization of the composite samples provides evidence for the existence of a connected network of CNFs throughout the bulk. Our results establish a potentially low‐cost approach for producing large volumes of highly conductive glass independently of the glass composition.
“The GCR and the Role of Development Actors with Refugees: A Game‐Changer, or More of the Same?”
Authors: Miller Sarah Deardorff
Published: November 2019

This article considers the Global Compact for Refugees (GCR) in light of the increased role of development actors with refugees. It questions whether the GCR is a “game changer” in how it engages development actors in refugee situations, or more of the status quo, whereby development actors are involved with refugees in ad hoc and indirect ways. The article argues that the GCR is a potential game changer because it initiates changes relating to financial, rhetorical and coordination mechanisms that further engage development actors in refugee situations. While it is too early to judge the effectiveness of the GCR fully, the article highlights examples where progress has been made and identifies other areas for potential progress. The article also underscores challenges, noting that the GCR is not designed to respond to all of these obstacles, and that behaviours engrained in development and humanitarian actors may impede potential progress.
The Global Compacts on Refugees and for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration: Introduction to the Special Issue
Authors: Ferris Elizabeth E. , Martin Susan F.
Published: November 2019

In December 2018, the UN General Assembly adopted two Global Compacts: The Global Compact on Refugees (GCR) and the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM). These two compacts, while non‐binding and aspirational in nature, offer the first widely‐accepted new normative frameworks on the movement of people since the ratification of the 1951 refugee convention and its 1967 protocol. This special issue of International Migration aims to analyse the way in which these two compacts were negotiated, examine their potential impact in a number of areas, and compare the way they deal with common themes such as gender, civil society and security. This introductory article describes the background and the process of negotiating the global compacts, provides a short summary of the articles included in this special issue, and highlights gaps in the two compacts that are not elsewhere discussed herein.
The Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration: What's Next
Authors: Vitorino António
Published: November 2019

The Director General of IOM reflects on the next steps to implement the Global Compact for Migration, IOM's new responsibility as Coordinator of the UN Migration Network, and the role that research can play in realizing the Compact's potential.
Success of endodontic management of compromised first permanent molars in children: A systematic review
Authors: Taylor Greig D. , Vernazza Christopher R. , Abdulmohsen Bana
Published: November 2019

Background

Endodontic therapies may be required in the management of compromised first permanent molar teeth; their success in children, however, is unknown.

Aim

To determine the success of endodontic therapies used on first permanent molar teeth in children aged sixteen and under.

Design

MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane library, CENTRAL, Clinicaltrials.gov, and the ISRCTN registry as well as relevant paediatric, endodontic, and traumatology journal were searched using a detailed search strategy. References of included studies were hand‐searched. A PICOS question was formulated: (P): children aged sixteen and under; (I): endodontic therapies (not pulp capping) on a first permanent molar tooth; (C): no treatment; (O): clinical success of endodontic therapy; and (S): all study types included.

Bias was assessed using the Cochrane and Robins‐I risk tools. Quality of evidence was assessed using the GRADE approach. Significant heterogeneity precluded meta‐analysis.

Results

4172 studies were retrieved and eleven were included in the narrative review. Partial and coronal pulpotomies have high success rates in the short term and long term. Limited evidence is available for conventional pulpectomy or regenerative techniques.

Conclusions

Partial and coronal pulpotomies are successful endodontic therapies for use in a compromised child's first permanent molar.
Effect of intermittent drought on grain yield and quality of rice (Oryza sativa L.) grown in Rwanda
Authors: Mukamuhirwa Alphonsine , Persson Hovmalm Helena , Ortiz Rodomiro , Nyamangyoku Obedi , Prieto–Linde Maria Luisa , Ekholm Anders , Johansson Eva
Published: November 2019

The climate change will contribute drought and temperature extremes to rice growing systems, especially when cultivated in equatorial regions. To evaluate opportunities to cultivate and breed drought‐tolerant rice, seven rice cultivars were evaluated in Rwanda for recurring morphological drought scores, grain yield and components, and quality characteristics. The cultivation conditions, that is site and drought treatment, impacted morphological drought scores, growth and yield attributes, while cultivar affected quality attributes. Thus, site showed a higher impact on grain yield and components than drought and cultivar, with generally a reduced grain yield at the low‐temperature site, as a result of low spikelet fertility. Morphological drought scores were generally increased by drought, while drought at the reproductive stage at the high‐temperature site was negative for yield and its components. The cultivars “Intsindagirabigega” and “Jyambere” were adapted to high‐temperature site conditions. The cultivar “Intsindagirabigega” had the highest amylose content, and “Mpembuke,” the highest antioxidant capacity. Thus, climate change with increased temperature and drought extremes may increase rice productivity in cool areas, while especially drought at reproductive stage will be detrimental in low altitude areas with high temperature. Cultivar variation indicated opportunities for selection and breeding of climate change tolerant rice cultivars which should be of immediate priority.
Rho‐kinase pathway activation and apoptosis in circulating leucocytes in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Ocaranza Maria Paz , Moya Jackeline , Jalil Jorge E. , Lavandero Sergio , Kalergis Alexis M. , Molina Cristián , Gabrielli Luigi , Godoy Iván , Córdova Samuel , Castro Pablo , Mac Nab Paul , Rossel Victor , García Lorena , González Javier , Mancilla Cristián , Fierro Camila , Farías Luis
Published: November 2019

Background

Increased Rho‐kinase activity in circulating leucocytes is observed in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). However, there is little information in HFrEF regarding other Rho‐kinase pathway components an on the relationship between Rho‐kinase and apoptosis. Here, Rho‐kinase activation levels and phosphorylation of major downstream molecules and apoptosis levels were measured for the first time both in HFrEF patients and healthy individuals.

Methods

Cross‐sectional study comparing HFrEF patients (n = 20) and healthy controls (n = 19). Rho‐kinase activity in circulating leucocytes (peripheral blood mononuclear cells, PBMCs) was determined by myosin light chain phosphatase 1 (MYPT1) and ezrin‐radixin‐moesin (ERM) phosphorylation. Rho‐kinase cascade proteins phosphorylation p38‐MAPK, myosin light chain‐2, JAK and JNK were also analysed along with apoptosis.

Results

MYPT1 and ERM phosphorylation were significantly elevated in HFrEF patients, (3.9‐ and 4.8‐fold higher than in controls, respectively). JAK phosphorylation was significantly increased by 300% over controls. Phosphorylation of downstream molecules p38‐MAPK and myosin light chain‐2 was significantly higher by 360% and 490%, respectively, while JNK phosphorylation was reduced by 60%. Catecholamine and angiotensin II levels were significantly higher in HFrEF patients, while angiotensin‐(1‐9) levels were lower. Apoptosis in circulating leucocytes was significantly increased in HFrEF patients by 2.8‐fold compared with controls and significantly correlated with Rho‐kinase activation.

Conclusion

Rho‐kinase pathway is activated in PMBCs from HFrEF patients despite optimal treatment, and it is closely associated with neurohormonal activation and with apoptosis. ROCK cascade inhibition might induce clinical benefits in HFrEF patients, and its assessment in PMBCs could be useful to evaluate reverse remodelling and disease regression.
Impact of Intensive Blood Pressure Therapy on Concern about Falling: Longitudinal Results from the Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial (SPRINT)
Authors: Berlowitz Dan R. , Foy Capri , Conroy Molly , Evans Gregory W. , Olney Christine M. , Pisoni Roberto , Powell James R. , Gure Tanya R. , Shorr Ronald I.
Published: November 2019

OBJECTIVES

Concern about falling is common among older hypertension patients and could impact decisions to intensify blood pressure therapy. Our aim was to determine whether intensive therapy targeting a systolic blood pressure (SBP) of 120 mm Hg is associated with greater changes in concern about falling when compared with standard therapy targeting an SBP of 140 mm Hg.

DESIGN

Subsample analysis of participants randomized to either intensive or standard therapy in the Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial (SPRINT).

SETTING

Approximately 100 outpatient sites.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 2313 enrollees in SPRINT; participants were all age 50 or older (mean = 69 y) and diagnosed with hypertension.

MEASUREMENTS

Concern about falling was described by the shortened version of the Falls Efficacy Scale International as measured at baseline, 6 months, 1 year, and annually thereafter.

RESULTS

Concern about falling showed a small but significant increase over time among all hypertension patients. No differences were noted, however, among those randomized to intensive vs standard therapy (P = .95). Among participants younger than 75 years, no increase in concern about falling over time was noted, but among participants aged 75 years and older, the mean falls self‐efficacy score increased by .3 points per year (P < .0001). No differences were observed between the intensive and standard treatment groups when stratified by age (P = .55).

CONCLUSION

Intensive blood pressure therapy is not associated with increased concern about falling among older hypertension patients healthy enough to participate in SPRINT. J Am Geriatr Soc 68:614–618, 2020
Donepezil‐induced oligodendrocyte differentiation is mediated through estrogen receptors
Authors: Imamura Osamu , Arai Masaaki , Dateki Minori , Oishi Kazuhiko , Takishima Kunio
Published: November 2019

Loss of oligodendrocytes, the myelin‐forming cells of the central nervous system, and subsequent failure of myelin development result in serious neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis. Using primary mouse embryonic neural stem cells (NSCs), we previously demonstrated that donepezil, an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor developed for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, stimulates the differentiation of NSCs into oligodendrocytes and neurons, albeit at the expense of astrogenesis. However, the precise mechanisms underlying donepezil‐induced differentiation remain unclear. In this study, we aimed at elucidating the molecular pathways contributing to donepezil‐induced differentiation of mouse‐induced pluripotent stem cell‐derived neural stem cells (miPSC‐NSCs). We used cell‐based reporter gene arrays to investigate effects of donepezil on differentiation of miPSC‐NSCs. Subsequently, we assessed the molecular pathway underlying donepezil action on differentiation of miPSC‐NSCs into mature oligodendrocytes. Donepezil increased the transcriptional activity of estrogen response element under differentiating conditions. Moreover, estrogen receptors α (ERα) and β (ERβ) were highly expressed in MBP‐positive mature oligodendrocytes. The ER antagonist ICI 182,780 abrogated the number of MBP‐positive oligodendrocytes induced by donepezil, but showed no effect on the differentiation of miPSC‐NSCs into Tuj1‐positive neurons and GFAP‐positive astrocytes. Furthermore, the donepezil‐induced generation of mature oligodendrocytes from miPSC‐NSC was significantly attenuated by antagonists and siRNA targeting ERα and ERβ. In conclusion, we demonstrated, for the first time, that donepezil‐induced oligodendrogenesis is mediated through both ER subtypes, ERα and ERβ.

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Cover Image for this issue: https://doi.org/10.1111/jnc.14771.