bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The intellectual contours of corporate social responsibility literature
Authors: Bhattacharyya Som Sekhar , Verma Surabhi
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) deliberated regarding business firms' actions for doing well to society and natural environment. Specifically, CSR has been about firms contributions towards stakeholder management. As world economy has prospered over the last couple of centuries, business firms have had also increased its footprints in social landscape. In such a scenario, the roles and responsibilities of business firms have expanded in society. Over the years, CSR as a domain of research and literature has developed into a very potent and rich field. Presently, CSR literature as a body of knowledge has become substantial. The authors in this literature review study attempts to conceptually map this complex field of CSR literature.

Design/methodology/approach

The objective of this literature review study was to present a visual mapping of intellectual structure of CSR in five-dimensions and to identify the subfields of CSR research concluded by co-citation analysis. All the citation research documents which were listed in the Web of Knowledge (WoK) database between 1998 and 2019 were analysed. Multivariate analysis was undertaken for the literature review. The study conducted a sequence of statistical analyses comprising of factor analysis, multidimensional scaling and cluster analysis.

Findings

This literature review research study summarised the contours and status of CSR research by categorizing the CSR literature into five classification factors, namely CSR Drivers CSR, Contextual Grounding of CSR, Historical Legacy of CSR, Strategic CSR and CSR Implementation. Further, based upon the analysis of literature review of extant research in CSR, both the contemporary and imminent CSR-related research themes were also deliberated upon.

Research limitations/implications

The results were helpful for academic scholars of CSR to comprehend both the gamut and focus of CSR literature over the years (between the years 1998 and 2019). The sequence of analyses involved factor, multidimensional scaling and cluster analysis. CSR literature was categorized into five factors namely- CSR Drivers, Contextual Grounding of CSR, Historical Legacy of CSR, Strategic CSR and CSR Implementation.

Originality/value

This study was one of the first set of studies to review the literature on CSR research articles by using citation, co-citation and social network analysis.
Gender differences and business model experimentation in European SMEs
Authors: Lopez-Nicolas Carolina , Nikou Shahrokh , Molina-Castillo Francisco-Jose , Bouwman Harry
Published: March 2020

Purpose

By drawing on various theoretical approaches and a gender perspective, this paper aims to examine business model (BM) experimentation as a step towards BM experimentation capabilities as an outcome and, as such, a key antecedent to firm performance.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, using a unique data set of 444 European small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the authors draw on various theoretical perspectives to devise a structural equation model that examines BM experimentation as a step towards business model innovation (BMI) as an outcome and, as such, a key antecedent to firm performance. Potential differences are examined between female-owned and non-female-owned businesses with regard to hypothesized relations.

Findings

Multi-group analysis results reveal that drivers of BM experimentation and the paths linking BM experimentation to overall firm performance are different for female owners in comparison to male owners.

Research limitations/implications

Theoretical and practical implications are various. For SME entrepreneurs, experimenting with their BMs does lead to improved performance.

Practical implications

Theoretical and practical implications are various. For SME entrepreneurs, experimenting with their BMs does lead to improved performance.

Originality/value

Despite the increasing number of papers focussing on the relationship between BM and firm performance, the focus on female entrepreneurship, gender differences and BMI, more specifically the process of BMI as BM experimentation, is relatively rare.
A numerical approach for inventory pre-positioning in emergency management
Authors: Di Pasquale Valentina , Fruggiero Fabio , Iannone Raffaele
Published: March 2020

Purpose

The increasing number of natural disasters has increased the attention on emergency plans aimed at providing fast support to affected communities. In this context, inventory pre-positioning management, which involves positioning the materials required to meet the affected community's needs early, has been increasingly acknowledged, but many challenges persist. The purpose of the paper is to provide a decision support system for the optimal quantification and location of humanitarian aid, trying to enhance and extend the existing literature on this topic.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper develops a numerical model for inventory pre-positioning of humanitarian aid to reduce both emergency response times and costs connected to goods procurement for seismic events. By examining the characteristics of the territory and the affected population, the model defines the optimal stock levels for four basic need items (hygienic sanitary kits, beds, blankets and camp tents) to be pre-allocated in the territory.

Findings

The model was validated using data obtained from the two severe earthquakes that occurred in Italy. The case study showed how the simulated outputs differ from the real case data and the economic benefits of adopting inventory pre-positioning considering the cost reductions (purchase, storage, transport and fulfilment of requirements).

Originality/value

The proposed decision support system allows the pre-positioning of emergency supplies in local areas in order to reduce response times and increase the speed of intervention in the event of seismic events, exploiting the advantages of a simulation model. Numerical and graphical results can easily support improvements in humanitarian logistics, providing those affected with rapid, cost-effective and better-adapted responses.
Officers' perceptions regarding the unexpected effects of body-worn cameras
Authors: Pickering Jordan C.
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Throughout the last decade, a number of empirical studies have assessed the effectiveness of body-worn cameras (BWCs) among law enforcement agencies across the United States. The purpose of this paper is to examine officers' perceptions regarding the impact this technology has had on police-community relations, as well as the working relationship between police and other actors in the criminal justice system (e.g. prosecutors, jurors).

Design/methodology/approach

The author conducted focus groups with officers (n = 89) from two local law enforcement agencies in California that had adopted BWCs in recent years. Participating officers discussed advantages and disadvantages they associated with BWCs, as well as how BWCs have impacted their relationship with the public and justice system personnel.

Findings

Officers recognized advantages to using BWCs, including the potential for positive changes in police behavior and the ability to protect officers against false citizen complaints. Officers also identified a number of disadvantages (or consequences) they associate with BWCs, such as the depreciation of credibility behind an officer's word and the impact of video footage on prosecutorial decision-making.

Originality/value

Prior studies have gathered officers' perceptions regarding BWCs, but very few have assessed whether and how the use of this technology by law enforcement influences other actors within the criminal justice system. The findings from this study may prompt further empirical consideration regarding BWCs, especially with regard to whether police use of this technology significantly impacts citizens' trust in the police and how their use may impact prosecutorial and juror decision-making.
Assessment of serum biomarkers in patients with plaque psoriasis on secukinumab
Authors: Morita Akimichi , Tani Yumiko , Matsumoto Kazuko , Yamaguchi Masako , Teshima Rie , Ohtsuki Mamitaro
Published: March 2020

The molecular basis of interleukin (IL)‐17A in driving psoriasis pathogenesis is not fully elucidated yet. To investigate the underlying mechanisms and biomarkers associated with IL‐17A and the role in psoriasis pathogenesis, over 30 serum proteins were evaluated in a study assessing the effectiveness and safety of secukinumab, where treatment was directly switched from cyclosporin A to secukinumab. Serum β‐defensin 2 (BD‐2) levels rapidly and robustly reduced following secukinumab treatment. BD‐2 levels were well‐correlated with Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score; changes in BD‐2 levels preceded change in PASI score. Serum BD‐2, an easily measurable protein, can possibly be used as a suitable surrogate biomarker to monitor responses to IL‐17A‐targeted therapies for psoriasis in clinical practice.
Integration of rock physics and seismic inversion for rock typing and flow unit analysis: A case study
Authors: Khadem Benyamin , Saberi Mohammad Reza , Eslahati Mohammad , Arbab Bita
Published: March 2020

Rock typing and flow unit detection are more challenging in clastic reservoirs with a uniform pore system. An integrated workflow based on well logs, inverted seismic data and rock physics models is proposed and developed to address such challenges. The proposed workflow supplies a plausible reservoir model for further investigation and adds extra information. Then, this workflow has been implemented in order to define different rock types and flow units in an oilfield in the Persian Gulf, where some of these difficulties have been observed. Here, rock physics models have the leading role in our proposed workflow by providing a diagnostic framework in which we successfully differentiate three rock types with variant characteristics on the given wells. Furthermore, permeability and porosity are calculated using the available rock physics models to define several flow units. Then, we extend our investigation to the entire reservoir by means of simultaneous inversion and rock physics models. The outcomes of the study suggest that in sediments with homogeneous pore size distribution, other reservoir properties such as shale content and cementation (which have distinct effects on the elastic domain) can be used to identify rock types and flow units. These reservoir properties have more physical insights for modelling purposes and can be distinguished on seismic cube using proper rock physics models. The results illustrate that the studied reservoir mainly consists of rock type B, which is unconsolidated sands and has the characteristics of a reservoir for subsequent fluid flow unit analysis. In this regard, rock type B has been divided into six fluid units in which the first detected flow unit is considered as the cleanest unit and has the highest reservoir process speed about 4800 to 5000 mD. Here, reservoir quality decreases from flow unit 1 to flow unit 6.
Drivers of amphibian population dynamics and asynchrony at local and regional scales
Authors: Cayuela Hugo , Griffiths Richard A. , Zakaria Nurul , Arntzen Jan W. , Priol Pauline , Léna Jean‐Paul , Besnard Aurélien , Joly Pierre
Published: March 2020

Identifying the drivers of population fluctuations in spatially distinct populations remains a significant challenge for ecologists. Whereas regional climatic factors may generate population synchrony (i.e. the Moran effect), local factors including the level of density dependence may reduce the level of synchrony. Although divergences in the scaling of population synchrony and spatial environmental variation have been observed, the regulatory factors that underlie such mismatches are poorly understood.

Few previous studies have investigated how density‐dependent processes and population‐specific responses to weather variation influence spatial synchrony at both local and regional scales. We addressed this issue in a pond‐breeding amphibian, the great crested newt Triturus cristatus. We used capture–recapture data collected through long‐term surveys in five T. cristatus populations in Western Europe.

In all populations—and subpopulations within metapopulations—population size, annual survival and recruitment fluctuated over time. Likewise, there was considerable variation in these demographic rates between populations and within metapopulations. These fluctuations and variations appear to be context‐dependent and more related to site‐specific characteristics than local or regional climatic drivers. We found a low level of demographic synchrony at both local and regional levels. Weather has weak and spatially variable effects on survival, recruitment and population growth rate. In contrast, density dependence was a common phenomenon (at least for population growth) in almost all populations and subpopulations.

Our findings support the idea that the Moran effect is low in species where the population dynamics more closely depends on local factors (e.g. population density and habitat characteristics) than on large‐scale environmental fluctuation (e.g. regional climatic variation). Such responses may have far‐reaching consequences for the long‐term viability of spatially structured populations and their ability to respond to large‐scale climatic anomalies.
Enhanced recruitment of larger predators in the presence of large prey
Authors: Takatsu Kunio , Kishida Osamu
Published: March 2020

Most carnivores undergo diet shift from smaller to larger prey items during ontogeny. The trophic relationship between a growing carnivore and larger prey is representative of a size‐structured predator–prey interaction. The strength of this interaction is, in part, determined by the recruitment of individuals from smaller predatory size classes into larger predatory size classes. Therefore, it is interesting to investigate how larger prey alter the recruitment of smaller predator size classes into larger predator size classes, since this can affect their own future predation risk.

Past empirical studies have exclusively documented that large prey reduce predator recruitment by decreasing growth and/or survival of the smaller predators. In this study, we provide empirical evidence of the contrasting pattern: large prey enhance the recruitment of smaller predators into larger predators even though they increase cannibalism mortality of the smaller predators. We have done this here by studying the trophic interaction between predatory salamander larvae Hynobius retardatus and the frog tadpoles Rana pirica that represent their large prey.

In a field experiment in which salamander hatchlings were exposed to the presence or absence of large frog tadpoles, we found that more giant salamanders emerged in the presence of frog tadpoles than in their absence. Reassignment of frog tadpoles (to both treatments) in the subsequent experimental period showed that the enhanced emergence of giant salamanders in the presence of frog tadpoles leads to the intensification of salamander predation on the frog tadpoles.

In an additional laboratory experiment, to better understand the underlying mechanisms, we manipulated both the presence of frog tadpoles and the occurrence of cannibalism between salamander hatchlings. This experiment revealed that frog tadpoles intensify the cannibalism of salamander larvae during their hatchling stage, thus allowing more salamander larvae to become large‐sized predators.

Our results suggest that frog tadpoles can inadvertently intensify their own future predation risk by intensifying cannibalistic interactions among predatory salamander hatchlings, thereby enhancing the degree of predator recruitment to a larger size class. Hence, large prey can enhance the recruitment of individuals from small predator size classes into larger predator size classes.
Translocated native pine martens Martes martes alter short‐term space use by invasive non‐native grey squirrels Sciurus carolinensis
Authors: McNicol Catherine M. , Bavin David , Bearhop Stuart , Ferryman Mark , Gill Robin , Goodwin Cecily E. D. , MacPherson Jenny , Silk Matthew J. , McDonald Robbie A.
Published: March 2020

Predators can shape the distributions and dynamics of their prey through direct and indirect mechanisms. Where prey animals are regarded as pests, the augmentation of predator populations might offer a potential tool in their management.

Declines in invasive non‐native grey squirrel Sciurus carolinensis populations in Ireland and Scotland have been related to an increase in range and density of native pine marten Martes martes populations. These reductions in grey squirrel abundance have, in turn, been linked to recovery of native red squirrels Sciurus vulgaris.

Taking the opportunity presented by a conservation translocation of pine martens from Scotland to Wales, we investigated the short‐term effects of exposure to translocated martens on the space use and survival of resident grey squirrels.

Grey squirrel range size and daily distance travelled increased significantly with increasing exposure to martens but we found no effect of marten exposure on the recapture probability (i.e. apparent survival) of the sampled squirrels within the study time frame. This is suggestive of contemporary, non‐lethal effects changing the ranging or foraging regimes of squirrels, due either to predator avoidance and/or earlier lethal effects associated with a reduction in intraspecific competition.

Synthesis and applications. Our evaluation mimics the conditions experienced by grey squirrels at the front edge of naturally recovering pine marten populations and presents direct evidence that pine marten translocations could play an influential role in the behaviour and dynamics of invasive non‐native grey squirrel populations. Translocations of native predators, undertaken primarily for biodiversity conservation, could therefore find additional application in managing the ecological and economic impacts of invasive non‐native prey.
Modelling New Zealand dairy products: evidence on export survival and duration
Authors: Luo Yangyuyu , Bano Sayeeda
Published: March 2020

This article presents evidence concerning the pattern of New Zealand dairy exports duration and survival from 1989 to 2017. It also analyses the influence of a set of supply, demand and gravity‐type drivers on the hazard rate for New Zealand dairy export relationships. The findings are summarised as follows. First, New Zealand dairy export relationships are dynamic with numerous entries and exits to and from foreign markets. Around half of the relationships survived for only 1–2 years at the sequence level. Second, duration of sequence, left‐censoring, initial export, decomposed sequences, New Zealand export price index, the number of cows available for dairy production, the number of origins and destinations, and destination partner’s GDP are the most significant factors reducing the hazard rate of export relationships. As regards the effects of the non‐tariff measures, it is interesting that technical barriers of trade are found to significantly decrease the hazard rate. Only pre‐shipment inspection and contingent trade protective measures are significant impediments to New Zealand dairy export relationships. Finally, hazard probabilities for New Zealand dairy export relationships are estimated to be ‘L‐shaped’ over time, whether or not non‐tariff measures are applied to New Zealand dairy products.
Investigation on mercury migration discipline in different paper‐plastic food packaging containers
Authors: Peng Xianglian , Fu Hongjun , Hu Jinbo , Luo Feijun
Published: March 2020

The understanding of the migration of mercury from packaging materials to food stuffs is the prerequisite for the development of food safety regulations. In this article, the migration of mercury from food paper‐plastic packaging containers to four food stimulants under different migrated temperatures is studied. The results show that the mobility and the maximum migration volume of mercury increase at certain temperatures when the migration time is extended. It is also noted that the time to reach equilibrium is reduced as the temperature increases. Meanwhile, different solvents appear various different while the rates of migration are 3% acetic acid >10% ethanol >20% ethanol >50% ethanol. But they show the same trend at the different temperatures. Our data suggest that different solvents, temperatures, and food stimulants affect the migration rates, and ameliorate those conditions will reduce migration and promote food quality.
RNA‐seq‐based quanitative transcriptome analysis of meat color and taste from chickens administered by eucalyptus leaf polyphenols extract
Authors: Li Wei , Zhang Xiao‐ying , Du Jie , Li Yi‐feng , Chen Yun‐jiao , Cao Yong
Published: March 2020

To evaluate how eucalyptus leaf polyphenol extract (EPE) affects chicken meat color and taste, we added different levels of EPE (0%, 0.06%, 0.09%, and 0.12%) to chicken feed. The redness (a* value) and the myoglobin content of breast muscle in EPE group were remarkably higher. Furthermore, the guanosine monophosphate, histidine, and glycine muscle contents were also enhanced. Transcriptome analysis showed that 10 candidate genes related to meat quality were affected by EPE treatment. The identified genes, with functions critical to chicken meat color and taste, will help to determine the molecular mechanisms of EPE.
Decadal and Episodic Changes in Morphology and Migration of the Confluence Bar of Two Alluvial Rivers in Louisiana, USA
Authors: Wang Bo , Xu Y. Jun
Published: March 2020

Past research on fluvial dynamics at the confluence of two alluvial rivers has mainly focused on downstream flow structure and bed scoring, often using laboratory experiments and numerical modeling. Little is investigated about yearly and episodic dynamics of confluence mouth bars that can affect downstream morphology using field measurements. In this study, we analyzed the migration of a confluence mouth bar of two free meandering alluvial rivers, the Amite and Comite Rivers in coastal Louisiana, USA from 2002 to 2017. Remote sensing images were utilized to investigate the decade‐long morphologic changes. To assess episodic dynamics, we employed terrestrial laser scanning measurements to acquire high‐accuracy digital elevation models at the confluence before and after three floods in 2017. Our study found that the Amite‐Comite confluence mouth bar migrated downstream 55 m in the past 15 years, and its angle reduced by 55° from 100° to 45°. The fast migration was a result of sediment deposition and channel deformation around the confluence mainly during the years when the tributary‐to‐main channel discharge was lower (<0.25). The study further reveals that a single moderate flood could strongly affect the mouth bar, as shown by an increase of the projected surface area by 114% and an increase of volume of the confluence mouth bar by 68%.
Vertebral fractures following stereotactic body radiotherapy for spine metastases
Authors: Abbouchie Hussein , Chao Michael , Tacey Mark , Lim Joon Daryl , Ho Huong , Guerrieri Mario , Ng Michael , Foroudi Farshad
Published: March 2020

Stereotactic body radiotherapy has emerged as one of the preferred treatments for patients with spine metastases, with the potential for long‐term control from lesion irradiation. Post‐treatment vertebral compression fractures are a known complication of this therapy, contributing to worsening pain and reduced quality of life, sometimes requiring surgical intervention. This review explores the current knowledge of post‐radiotherapy fractures, in terms of the rates and associated predictive factors. A search of databases including Medline, Embase and the Cochrane Library was conducted using keywords such as ‘vertebral compression fracture’, ‘stereotactic body radiotherapy’ and ‘spine metastases’. The search was limited to published studies up to March 2019, reporting clinical outcomes including both the post‐treatment fracture rate and statistical identification of associated risk factors. Rates of post‐treatment fractures ranged from 4 to 39%. A variety of factors were found to increase the risk, including the appearance of lytic vertebral disease, degree of pre‐existing compression, spinal malalignment, increased dose per fraction and a Spinal Instability Neoplastic Score >6. This knowledge can enable clinicians to counsel patients when considering management options for spine metastases, maintaining the balance between local tumour control and the risk of subsequent fracture.
An Emergency Medicine–focused Summary of the HFSA/SAEM/ISHLT Clinical Consensus Document on the Emergency Management of Patients With Ventricular Assist Devices
Authors: Darling Chad E. , Martindale Jennifer L. , Hiestand Brian C. , Bonnell Mark , Colvin Monica , DeFilippis Ersilia M. , Elliott Tonya , Hamad Eman , Pinney Sean P. , Shah Keyur B. , Vierecke Juliane , Givertz Michael M.
Published: March 2020

Mechanical circulatory support is increasingly used as a long‐term treatment option for patients with end‐stage heart failure. Patients with implanted ventricular assist devices are at high risk for a range of diverse medical urgencies and emergencies. Given the increasing prevalence of mechanical circulatory support devices, this expert clinical consensus document seeks to help inform emergency medicine and prehospital providers regarding the approach to acute medical and surgical conditions encountered in these complex patients.
Eyes on the prize: CEO and director retirement preferences and acquisitions
Authors: Clout Victoria , Ghannam Samir , Loyeung Anna , Yang Jin Sug
Published: March 2020

We examine whether the age of CEOs and independent directors impacts the likelihood of receiving a successful takeover offer. First, we replicate and confirm the results of Jenter and Lewellen and find that retirement age CEOs (age 64–66) are more likely to receive successful takeover offers. Second, we extend their study by investigating the retirement preferences of independent directors. We find that the likelihood of receiving a successful takeover offer increases when a higher proportion of independent directors are at retirement age. This finding suggests that independent directors have similar retirement preferences to CEOs.
Trade‐off expression of melatonin receptor subtypes (Mel1a and Mel1b) and androgen receptor in lung of a tropical bird, Perdicula asiatica
Authors: Kharwar Rajesh Kumar , Singh Vaishali , Haldar Chandana
Published: March 2020

The role of circulatory steroid hormone along with melatonin in lung of any seasonally breeding bird has never been explored so far. This could be interesting because steroid hormones are immunosuppressive while melatonin is immunostimulatory in nature. In our present study, we report the effect of exogenous melatonin and testosterone on expression of melatonin receptor subtypes (Mel1a and Mel1b) and androgen receptor in lung of a tropical bird Perdicula asiatica. Birds were collected from vicinity of Varanasi and acclimatized in laboratory with sufficient food and water. The birds were treated with melatonin and testosterone at dose of 25 µg/100 g B.wt./day and 1 mg/100 g B.wt./day, respectively, for 28 days. At the end of the experiment, the birds were sacrificed and lung tissue and blood sample were collected for immunohistochemistry, Western blot analysis and hormonal assay. Testosterone treatment increased circulatory testosterone and upregulated expression of androgen receptors whereas downregulated expression of melatonin receptor subtypes Mel1a and Mel1b. Melatonin administration increased peripheral melatonin and upregulated expression of melatonin receptor subtypes Mel1a and Mel1b while downregulated androgen receptor. Thus, our results suggest that a trade‐off relationship between melatonin and testosterone exists in regulation of their receptors in lung of Perdicula asiatica.
Struggling urology trainee: a qualitative study into causes of underperformance
Authors: McLeod Kathryn , Waller Susan , King Dennis , Nestel Debra
Published: March 2020

Background

Urological surgical trainees who underperform are difficult to identify, manage and require significant resources in an already stretched system relying on pro bono supervisors that often have no formal training. While there are commentaries on how to manage underperforming surgical trainees, there is a lack of data detailing the complex reasons for underperformance. It is important to understand the complexities contributing to underperformance so that improved remediation plans can be developed which can better help trainees meet expectations and succeed.

Methods

In this qualitative study, individual semi‐structured interviews were conducted with key persons identified as having very high levels of background knowledge and involvement with current underperforming urological surgery trainees. Transcribed interviews were thematically analysed.

Results

Ten interviews were conducted, including nine urology consultants and one educational manager. Five themes were identified: underperformance is a small but profound issue; spiral of failure; the changing trainee; lack of insight and under supported supervisors and posts.

Conclusion

Causes of underperformance in urology trainees are complex and multifactorial. Behavioural issues were considered the most likely cause, which are also the most challenging to remedy. However, in addition to trainee factors, causative factors related to supervision and training were identified. Addressing all of these issues is paramount if effective remediation of these trainees is to occur.
Biallelic loss of FAM46C triggers tumor growth with concomitant activation of Akt signaling in multiple myeloma cells
Authors: Kanasugi Jo , Hanamura Ichiro , Ota Akinobu , Karnan Sivasundaram , Lam Vu Quang , Mizuno Shohei , Wahiduzzaman Md , Rahman Md Lutfur , Hyodo Toshinori , Konishi Hiroyuki , Tsuzuki Shinobu , Hosokawa Yoshitaka , Takami Akiyoshi
Published: March 2020

Loss of heterozygosity or mutation of the family with sequence similarity 46, member C (FAM46C) gene on chromosome band 1p12 is associated with shorter overall survival of patients with multiple myeloma (MM). In this study, using human MM cell lines (KMS‐11, OCI‐My5, and ANBL‐6), we generated FAM46C−/− cell clones and examined the effect of disruption of FAM46C on cell survival and cellular signaling. Cell proliferation assays showed increased clonogenicity of FAM46C−/− KMS‐11 cells compared to WT cells. Xenograft experiments showed significantly shorter overall survival of mice harboring the FAM46C−/− cell‐derived tumors than mice with the FAM46CWT cell‐derived tumors. Notably, levels of phosphorylated Akt and its substrates increased both in vitro and in vivo in the FAM46C−/− cells compared to WT cells. In addition, caspase activities decreased in the FAM46C−/− cells. Results of gene set enrichment analysis showed that loss of FAM46C significantly activated serum‐responsive genes while inactivating phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN)‐related genes. Mechanistically, loss of FAM46C decreased the PTEN activity, number of apoptotic cells, and caspase activities. PF‐04691502, a selective PI3K inhibitor, suppressed the augmented phosphorylation of Akt and its substrate FoxO3a. Treatment with afuresertib (a specific Akt inhibitor) in combination with bortezomib additively decreased FAM46C−/− MM cell survival. Collectively, this study is the first to report that loss of FAM46C triggers the concomitant activation of the PI3K‐Akt signaling pathway, which might be a therapeutic target for MM with abnormalities in the FAM46C gene.
Polyp detection algorithm can detect small polyps: Ex vivo reading test compared with endoscopists
Authors: Guo Zhe , Nemoto Daiki , Zhu Xin , Li Qin , Aizawa Masato , Utano Kenichi , Isohata Noriyuki , Endo Shungo , Kawarai Lefor Alan , Togashi Kazutomo
Published: March 2020

Background and Study Aims

Small polyps are occasionally missed during colonoscopy. This study was conducted to validate the diagnostic performance of a polyp‐detection algorithm to alert endoscopists to unrecognized lesions.

Methods

A computer‐aided detection (CADe) algorithm was developed based on convolutional neural networks using training data from 1991 still colonoscopy images from 283 subjects with adenomatous polyps. The CADe algorithm was evaluated on a validation dataset including 50 short videos with 1–2 polyps (3.5 ± 1.5 mm, range 2–8 mm) and 50 videos without polyps. Two expert colonoscopists and two physicians in training separately read the same videos, blinded to the presence of polyps. The CADe algorithm was also evaluated using eight full videos with polyps and seven full videos without a polyp.

Results

The per‐video sensitivity of CADe for polyp detection was 88% and the per‐frame false‐positive rate was 2.8%, with a confidence level of ≥30%. The per‐video sensitivity of both experts was 88%, and the sensitivities of the two physicians in training were 84% and 76%. For each reader, the frames with missed polyps appearing on short videos were significantly less than the frames with detected polyps, but no trends were observed regarding polyp size, morphology or color. For full video readings, per‐polyp sensitivity was 100% with a per‐frame false‐positive rate of 1.7%, and per‐frame specificity of 98.3%.

Conclusions

The sensitivity of CADe to detect small polyps was almost equivalent to experts and superior to physicians in training. A clinical trial using CADe is warranted.
Equine peripheral cemental defects and dental caries: Four case reports
Authors: Lundström T. , Birkhed D.
Published: March 2020

This study reports four cases of peripheral cemental defects and dental caries in horses and possible predisposing factors. The cases demonstrated different scenarios, which indicate possible predisposing factors. Feeding regime, pH of the drinking water and periodontal disease may be such risk factors. Thus, we conclude that peripheral cemental defects and dental caries have a multifactorial background, where environmental factors and feeding regimes may play an important role.
Impact of road transportation development on habitat quality in economically developed areas: A case study of Jiangsu Province, China
Authors: Zhou Xiaoping , Xiao Longkai , Lu Xiao , Sun Dongqi
Published: March 2020

The excessive expansion of road transportation often has an impact on the quality of regional habitats. This paper attempts to assess the impact of road transportation on regional habitat quality in economically developed areas. A kernel density analysis was used to characterise the road transportation development in Jiangsu Province from 2000 to 2015. An Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Trade‐offs (InVEST) habitat quality model was applied to assess changes in habitat quality. Furthermore, a fixed‐effect regression model was utilised to examine the impact of road transportation development in Jiangsu Province on habitat quality. The analysis indicates that the average kernel density of road transportation in the province increased from 0.109 to 0.551 km/km2 while the habitat quality decreased from 0.51 to 0.48. The development of road transportation in Jiangsu Province has had a serious negative impact on the quality of the habitat. For every 1‐ha increase in land area for road use, the habitat quality index will decrease by 0.066; for every 1 km/km2 increase in road transportation kernel density, the habitat quality index will decline by 0.121.
The relationship of self‐compassion and hope with quality of life for individuals with bleeding disorders
Authors: Klein Darci E. , Winterowd Carrie L. , Ehrhardt Meredith D. , Carter Jenny Carrick , Khan Osman , Mayes Sunnye
Published: March 2020

Introduction

Minimal research has been conducted examining the relationship of positive psychology variables with quality of life (QOL) for individuals with bleeding disorders. While many individuals manage their bleeding disorders well, some are at higher risk of developing psychosocial complications due to the daily stressors of managing illness‐related symptoms.

Aim

The purpose of this study is to better understand the relationships between two positive psychology variables, self‐compassion and hope and QOL (overall, psychosocial and physical) among individuals diagnosed with bleeding disorders.

Methods

Participants completed a survey identifying demographic information as well as rating scales of self‐compassion, hope and quality of life. We conducted Pearson correlational and standard multiple regression analyses to explore the bivariate and linear relationships between the aforementioned variables in a sample of 86 patients with bleeding disorders between the ages of 15 and 65.

Results

Self‐compassion and hope were significantly related to QOL. Together, self‐compassion and hope were predictive of overall QOL, psychosocial QOL and physical QOL. However, hope was the only individual predictor of all three QOL dimensions.

Conclusion

Due to the significant relationships found between self‐compassion, hope and QOL in this sample, it may be beneficial to incorporate positive psychology factors into the treatment of those diagnosed with bleeding disorders, especially those at higher risk for decreased QOL.
Avian responses to forest fragmentation during the breeding and non‐breeding seasons
Authors: Verga Ernesto Gustavo , Galetto Leonardo , Peluc Susana Inés
Published: March 2020

Forest fragmentation represents a threat to several bird species worldwide. Several factors can change across seasons (e.g. bird perception of the landscape, weather conditions, biotic interactions), which can modify the response of bird populations to forest fragmentation. However, most studies have been conducted only during the breeding season. Here we assessed the relationship between forest fragmentation (patch area and patch isolation) with population abundances of resident species during both the breeding and the non‐breeding seasons. Bird population abundances (all species in the community, subsets of forest and habitat generalist species and for individual species) were estimated across a gradient of area‐isolation in a semi‐arid forest in Cordoba, Argentina. Population abundance of the overall avian community and of the subset of forest species declined with patch area reduction independently of the season. By contrast, the subset of habitat generalist species was not affected by patch area reduction or by the increase in patch isolation, either during the breeding or during the non‐breeding season. When the analyses were carried out for individual species, we found four forest species and one habitat generalist species whose responses (the relationship between population abundance and patch area or with isolation) were different between breeding and non‐breeding seasons. The negative effects of forest fragmentation were found mainly during the breeding season. Our results suggest that reduction of patch area may lead to a reduction of more than 65% of the population abundance of forest bird species, during both the breeding and the non‐breeding season. Therefore, there is an urgent need to conserve large forest patches within the region as irreplaceable elements for the conservation of populations of several species.
Assessing the effects of habitat characteristics and co‐occurrence with closely related species on occupancy of resident ‘wood‐warblers’ in a Neotropical working landscape
Authors: Ortega‐Álvarez Rubén , Berrones Benítez Esteban , Medina Mena Israel , Zúñiga‐Vega José Jaime
Published: March 2020

The simultaneous effects of habitat traits and interspecific interactions determine the occurrence and habitat use of wildlife populations. However, little research has been devoted to examining spatial co‐occurrence among closely related species while considering the effect of habitat variation and imperfect detectability of species in the field. In this study, we focused on migratory and resident 'wood‐warblers' that coexist during the winter in a Neotropical working landscape in southern Mexico to understand if habitat occupancy of resident wood‐warblers is influenced by habitat characteristics and by the presence of other species of resident and migratory wood‐warblers. For this purpose, we implemented two‐species occupancy models, which account for the imperfect detectability of these birds in the field. Our results revealed that habitat occupancy of resident wood‐warblers was positively influenced by the presence of other closely related species (both migratory and resident). These positive relationships may be explained by the fact that different species of wood‐warblers frequently participate in mixed‐species flocks. However, these patterns of species co‐occurrence were more evident among resident species than between migratory and resident species, which may be explained by micro‐habitat segregation and differences in behaviours between resident and migratory wood‐warblers. We also found that some habitat characteristics may mediate the observed patterns of species co‐occurrence. Specifically, sites with larger trees were associated with the co‐occurrence of some species of resident wood‐warblers. In addition, we discuss the possibility that species co‐occurrence might be the result of shared preferences for environmental factors that we did not consider. Our study highlights the importance of the interplay between species co‐occurrence and habitat traits in determining the presence and habitat use of resident birds in Neotropical working landscapes.
A global survey on trends in advanced practice and specialisation in the pharmacy workforce
Authors: Bates Ian , Bader Lina R , Galbraith Kirsten
Published: March 2020

Objectives

Despite the increasingly complex care and demanding health challenges shaping pharmacy, little work has been carried out to understand the global status of advanced and/or specialised pharmacy practice scopes and the models in which they exist. This study aims to describe the current global status of initiatives relating to advancement of pharmacy practice.

Methods

A global survey was conducted between January and May 2015 to collect country-level data from member organisations of the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP), and national-level contacts from regulatory, professional and government agencies or universities; data requests were sent to 109 countries. The collected data were triangulated (comparing multiple sources from single countries, e.g.), cleaned and analysed by descriptive and comparative statistics.

Key findings

Full data sets from 48 countries and territories were obtained. The findings demonstrate varying systems of advanced pharmacy practice and specialisation often linked to income level. The study found that there are variations within terminology and definitions, frameworks for specialisation and advanced practice, professional recognition mechanisms and benefits across countries.

Conclusions

This survey of 48 countries and territories was the first of its kind to describe the range of specialisation and professional recognition systems for advanced pharmacy practice worldwide. Despite the variance, it is clear from this global study that professional advancement and the recognition of advancement in practice are developing around the world and this could be due to the increasingly complex nature of pharmaceutical care delivery and a consequent need to be able to endorse professional capabilities.
Trends in advanced practice and specialisation in the global pharmacy workforce: a synthesis of country case studies
Authors: Bader Lina R , Bates Ian , Galbraith Kirsten
Published: March 2020

Objectives

This study aims to gain a better understanding of the drivers and barriers to the development of advanced practice and specialised systems around the world. Through the synthesis of in-depth country case studies, this paper aims to identify current models of advanced practice and specialisation in pharmacy and illustrate trends, drivers and barriers in policy development. This is the first analysis of its kind to examine pharmacy specialisation and advanced practice in this depth from a global perspective.

Methods

A synthesis of country case studies was carried out. The country case study template was reviewed and approved by an expert working group drawn from a cross section of International Pharmaceutical Federations (FIP) experts and special-interest groups. FIP member organisations and country-level contacts from regulatory, professional and government agencies and universities were approached to contribute to the case study database. The data were collected between January and May 2015. Descriptive comparative analysis and qualitative thematic analysis were both used to analyse the data.

Key findings

Case study submissions were received from 17 countries. The findings demonstrate that the pace and depth of change in advanced practice and specialisation are occurring at different rates across countries and regions, although many countries appear to be moving towards recognising advanced and specialised practice of pharmacists and developing frameworks and/or formalised recognition systems.

Conclusions

Country-specific examples are useful in identifying factors that may contribute to the rate at which developments in advanced practice and specialisation in pharmacy are taking place and enable progress in around the world.
The developing immune network in human prenatal skin
Authors: Botting Rachel Anne , Haniffa Muzlifah
Published: March 2020

Establishment of a well‐functioning immune network in skin is crucial for its barrier function. This begins in utero alongside the structural differentiation and maturation of skin, and continues to expand and diversify across the human lifespan. The microenvironment of the developing human skin supports immune cell differentiation and has an overall anti‐inflammatory profile. Immunologically inert and skewed immune populations found in developing human skin promote wound healing, and as such may play a crucial role in the structural changes occurring during skin development.
Controlled nano‐crystallization of IR frequency‐doubling Cd4GeS6 crystal in chalcogenide glass
Authors: Ye Qilin , Weng Kaibo , Chen Dan , Lin Changgui
Published: March 2020

Crystallization of IR frequency‐doubling nanocrystals in chalcogenide glasses is a promising approach to achieve novel nonlinear optical materials. However, controllable glass crystallization remains challenging. In this study, IR‐transparent chalcogenide glass‐ceramics containing novel Cd4GeS6 IR frequency‐doubling nanocrystals (about 60‐80 nm) are fabricated through controlled nano‐crystallization. Nanocrystalline structure of the Cd4GeS6 nano‐crystallized glass‐ceramics is investigated in detail through X‐ray diffractometer, field emission scanning electron microscope, and Raman scattering techniques. The structural similarity of [Cd4GeS6] polyhedron in the network structure of as‐prepared glass is found to be responsible for the nucleation of Cd4GeS6 crystal. A unique microstructure of Cd4GeS6 nanocrystals embedded GeS2 phase‐separated structure is discovered in samples thermally treated at high temperatures (370°C and 380°C). This study would not only shed more light on glass crystallization mechanism but also provide a feasible approach for the design and fabrication of new IR frequency‐doubling materials through glass crystallization.