bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes of China’s agri-food exports to Germany caused by its accession to WTO and the 2008 financial crisis
Authors: Guo Zhichao , Feng Yuanhua , Gries Thomas
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate changes of China’s agri-food exports to Germany caused by China’s accession to WTO and the global financial crisis in a quantitative way. The paper aims to detect structural breaks and compare differences before and after the change points.

Design/methodology/approach

– The structural breaks detection procedures in this paper can be applied to find out two different types of change points, i.e. in the middle and at the end of one time series. Then time series and regression models are used to compare differences of trade relationship before and after the detected change points. The methods can be employed in any economic series and work well in practice.

Findings

– The results indicate that structural breaks in 2002 and 2009 are caused by China’s accession to WTO and the financial crisis. Time series and regression models show that the development of China’s exports to Germany in agri-food products has different features in different sub-periods. Before 1999, there is no significant relationship between China’s exports to Germany and Germany’s imports from the world. Between 2002 and 2008 the former depends on the latter very strongly, and China’s exports to Germany developed quickly and stably. It decreased, however suddenly in 2009, caused by the great reduction of Germany’s imports from the world in that year. But China’s market share in Germany still had a small gain. Analysis of two categories in agri-food trade also leads to similar conclusions. Comparing the two events we see rather different patterns even if they both indicate structural breaks in the development of China’s agri-food exports to Germany.

Originality/value

– This paper partly originally proposes two statistical algorithms for detecting different kinds of structural breaks in the middle part and at the end of a short-time series, respectively.
Analysis of consumer demand for traceable pork in China based on a real choice experiment
Authors: Wu Linhai , Wang Hongsha , Zhu Dian
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to reveal the actual consumer demand for traceable pork by investigating consumer preferences for pork with combined levels of traceability information based on differences in individual consumer preferences, in order to support the government in decision making regarding the gradual construction of safe food markets.

Design/methodology/approach

– Combinations of four types of traceability information, including farming, slaughter and processing, distribution and sales, and government certification, with price were randomly designed. To identify consumer preferences for these attribute combinations of traceable pork, 215 consumers in Wuxi, Jiangsu Province were investigated using a real choice experiment and the mixed logit model.

Findings

– Significant heterogeneity was observed in consumer preferences for traceable pork. The information of farming, slaughter and processing, distribution and marketing, and government certification could significantly improve consumer utility. Moreover, consumers had the highest preference for government certification information.

Originality/value

– Although numerous studies have been performed on consumer preferences for food safety attributes using a real choice experiment, almost none of them focus on Chinese consumers. Therefore, this study is an attempt to fill this gap. The conclusions of this study can serve as a reference for the Chinese government in developing safe food consumption policies. Although Chinese consumers have cried out for improvement of pork safety, they have different preferences for traceability information; thus, the government must promote traceable food step-by-step, using consumer preferences as a starting point.
Perceived employability and psychological functioning framed by gain and loss cycles
Authors: Vanhercke Dorien , Kirves Kaisa , De Cuyper Nele , Verbruggen Marijke , Forrier Anneleen , De Witte Hans
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to test the gain and loss cycle ideas from the Conservation of Resources (COR) theory with regard to perceived employability and psychological functioning among employed workers and unemployed job seekers, respectively.

Design/methodology/approach

– More specifically, the authors argue that perceived employability may trigger a gain cycle toward well-being among employed workers (H1), while ill-being may trigger a loss cycle toward reduced (perceived) employability among unemployed job seekers (H2). The authors test these ideas with cross-lagged analysis.

Findings

– Results confirm the hypotheses: perceived employability at Time 1 positively affects well-being at Time 2 among employed workers and ill-being at Time 1 negatively impacts perceived employability at Time 2 among unemployed job seekers.

Research limitations/implications

– Future research should study the gain and loss cycles with more than two waves of data as this allows for a more adequate test of these ideas.

Practical implications

– As for practitioners, the results suggest that investing in the worker’s perceived employability by offering training, career counseling, and networking opportunities, pays off as it promotes the employee’s psychological functioning. With regard to unemployed job seekers the authors advise investing in psychological counseling: the unemployed job seeker will be more able to invest in a job search, and hence perceive employability if helped in coping with job loss.

Originality/value

– This study offers a new perspective on the relationship between perceived employability and psychological functioning by involving the principles of COR theory, in particular the gain and loss cycles.
Shielding from external magnetic fields by rotating magnetic conducting cylindrical shells
Authors: Ziolkowski Marcin , Gratkowski Stanislaw
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– In many different engineering fields often there is a need to protect regions from electromagnetic interference. According to static and low-frequency magnetic fields the common strategy bases on using a shield made of conductive or ferromagnetic material. Another screening technique uses solenoids that generate an opposite magnetic field to the external one. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the shielding effect for a magnetic and conducting cylindrical screen rotating in an external static magnetic field.

Design/methodology/approach

– The magnetic flux density is expressed in terms of the magnetic vector potential. Applying the separation of variables method analytical solutions are obtained for an infinitely long magnetic conducting cylindrical screen rotating in a uniform static transverse magnetic field.

Findings

– Analytical formulas of the shielding factor for a cylindrical screen of arbitrary conductivity and magnetic permeability are given. A magnetic Reynolds number is found to be an appropriate indication of the change in magnetic field inside the screen. Useful simplified expressions are presented.

Originality/value

– This paper treats in a qualitative way the possibility of static magnetic field shielding by using rotating conducting magnetic cylindrical screens. Analytical solutions are given. If the angular velocity is equal to zero or the relative permeability of the shield is equal to one the shielding factor has forms well known from literature.
Electromagnetic and thermal parameter identification method for best prediction of temperature distribution on transformer tank covers
Authors: Penabad Durán Patricia , Di Barba Paolo , Lopez-Fernandez Xose , Turowski Janusz
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to describe a parameter identification method based on multiobjective (MO) deterministic and non-deterministic optimization algorithms to compute the temperature distribution on transformer tank covers.

Design/methodology/approach

– The strategy for implementing the parameter identification process consists of three main steps. The first step is to define the most appropriate objective function and the identification problem is solved for the chosen parameters using single-objective (SO) optimization algorithms. Then sensitivity to measurement error of the computational model is assessed and finally it is included as an additional objective function, making the identification problem a MO one.

Findings

– Computations with identified/optimal parameters yield accurate results for a wide range of current values and different conductor arrangements. From the numerical solution of the temperature field, decisions on dimensions and materials can be taken to avoid overheating on transformer covers.

Research limitations/implications

– The accuracy of the model depends on its parameters, such as heat exchange coefficients and material properties, which are difficult to determine from formulae or from the literature. Thus the goal of the presented technique is to achieve the best possible agreement between measured and numerically calculated temperature values.

Originality/value

– Differing from previous works found in the literature, sensitivity to measurement error is considered in the parameter identification technique as an additional objective function. Thus, solutions less sensitive to measurement errors at the expenses of a degradation in accuracy are identified by means of MO optimization algorithms.
Thermal analysis and efficiency of an induction motor driven by a fault-tolerant multilevel inverter using FEM
Authors: Baptista Bruno R. O. , Mendes André M.S. , Cruz Sérgio M.A.
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to present a comparative study of the thermal behavior and efficiency of an induction motor fed by a fault-tolerant Three-Level Neutral Point Clamped (3LNPC) inverter, under normal conditions as well as after a post-fault reconfiguration, following an open-circuit fault in the inverter. For this purpose, a Matlab/Simulink model and three-phase induction motor models using a finite element method (FEM) software were developed. Besides, some experimental tests were conducted for different values of the induction motor load torque and speed reference to validate the models.

Design/methodology/approach

– To assess the thermal behavior and efficiency of the motor, electromagnetic and thermal models using a FEM software were developed. The coupling with the inverter drive is accomplished through a developed model in Matlab/Simulink which also includes the control system. The simulation tests were performed for a healthy and faulty inverter at different operating points of the three-phase induction motor. To validate the FEM models some experimental tests were performed.

Findings

– When the inverter operates in reconfigured mode the motor losses are higher and consequently temperature is higher and the motor efficiency is lower. The developed models are an alternative to a more detailed study of the motor when fed by a 3LNPC inverter and consequent optimization of the control system.

Originality/value

– With the developed tools, a better understanding of the motor behavior and performance is gained, allowing to forecast scenarios and optimize fault-tolerant control strategies for the drive.
Birla milks its employees for the creamiest leaders of the future
Authors: Rana Geeta , Goel Alok Kumar
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to describe how Birla creates a strong pipeline of people who are ready to lead the organization in the future.

Design/methodology/approach

– It explains the origins of the group’s global-manufacturing leadership program (GMLP), the form it takes and the results it has achieved.

Findings

– It reveals that the program aims to shape the manufacturing leaders of tomorrow through exposing them to world-class technologies and processes, state-of-the-art research and continuous learning and development opportunities.

Practical implications

– It reveals that of the five GMLP candidates recruited in 2011, three have become independent unit heads, one in China and two in India.

Social implications

– It outlines the company belief that retaining and developing the skills of its existing workforce is at least as important as importing new talent when faced with increasing competition and growing pressure to cut costs in its main markets.

Originality/value

– It demonstrates that the program is designed to ensure that each participant is able to understand and anticipate customer needs, influence colleagues without too openly expressing authority and develop and communicate the company’s long-term vision.
Service quality research on China’s hospitality and tourism industry
Authors: Tsang Nelson K. F. , Lee Louisa Yee-Sum , Qu Hailin
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– The study aims to provide an inventory of the existing English and Chinese research on service quality in China’s hospitality and tourism industry. The study aims to identify the reasons for the lack of research on service quality in China’s hospitality and tourism industry and the ignorance of the Chinese language literature in the field.

Design/methodology/approach

– A synthesis review is conducted of 31 articles published in 11 leading Chinese and English academic journals from 1998 to 2013.

Findings

– Popular research themes are service quality management and evaluation in the hotel sector. The majority of the reviewed articles are empirical studies that adopt quantitative methods, and none of the English articles use qualitative methods. Recent studies tend to use sophisticated statistical techniques such as confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling. Changes in disciplines, publication trends and statistical techniques are observed. The theoretical and practical contributions of the Chinese and English publications are compared, and recommendations are made for future research.

Originality/value

– This study is one of the first to review and compare the existing publications in the leading Chinese- and English-language journals. It provides a platform for scholars, especially non-Chinese literate researchers, to understand the research on service quality in the China hospitality and tourism industry.
Transitioning loyalty programs
Authors: Bowen John T , Chen McCain Shiang-Lih
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this study is to reflect on Bowen and Chen’s study and provide insight for researchers to help them build loyalty models that will fit the consumer behavior of Millennials and managers as they build customer loyalty with Millennials. In 2001, Bowen and Chen developed and implemented a research framework for hotel managers to identify attributes that will increase customer loyalty. Since 2001, a major shift has taken place: demographically, as Baby Boomers retire and pass on, Millennials will become the dominant generational segment.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors use a review of literature to accomplish its purpose.

Findings

– The authors argue that the loyalty models developed for Boomers will not be a good fit for Millennials. Three propositions are presented in the paper to help researchers develop models that will explain the customer loyalty of Millennials.

Research limitations/implications

– Implications are presented for researchers wishing to investigate the antecedents and consequences of loyalty for Millennials.

Practical implications

– The transition from Boomers to Millennials creates a number of opportunities and challenges for managers, which are discussed in the paper.

Originality/value

– There has been a dearth of empirical research on customer loyalty models developed for Millennials. This paper is a commentary on past models developed for Boomers and the transition needed to develop models for Millennials. It is hoped this dialogue will spawn research that develops loyalty models for Millennials.
Revisiting talent management, work-life balance and retention strategies
Authors: Deery Margaret , Jago Leo
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to examine the themes of talent management, work-life balance (WLB) and retention strategies in the hospitality industry. The study was undertaken through an analysis of the key themes in the most recent literature. The paper uses a framework incorporating organisational and industry attributes, personal employee dimensions, work-life conflict and organisational strategies and examines these in relation to whether job satisfaction, organisational commitment and employee retention improve.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper uses employee turnover literature to underpin a discussion of successful talent management. Using a key word search in both the hospitality literature and more mainstream management research, it divides the literature into four themes, namely, employee attitudes, personal employee dimensions, WLB and organisational strategies for employee retention.

Findings

– The key findings emerging from this examination of the literature show that WLB appears to have become one of the key variables when addressing issues of employee management and retention. In the recent literature, the link between employee attitudes, such as job satisfaction and organisational commitment, personal dimensions, such as stress and alcohol abuse, and WLB have become closer and intertwined. These links assist in gaining more focussed strategies to assist in retaining talented staff.

Research limitations/implications

– The meta-analysis of relevant literature provides an understanding of recent thinking in the area of WLB, talent management and the retention of talented staff. The article reframes the key issues in light of changes in the work environment and presents a new framework for future research and industry application.

Practical implications

– Given that WLB has become such an important factor, it is critical that managers regularly monitor the levels of WLB being experienced by staff. As staff are not always aware of WLB being a problem until it is too late, managers will need to find appropriate methods for assessing the presence of problems in this area.

Social implications

– The development of WLB strategies within the hospitality industry will assist in providing a healthier lifestyle for employees. This will then positively impact on family and social relationships.

Originality/value

– The meta-analysis of relevant literature provides an understanding of recent thinking in the area of WLB, talent management and the retention of talented staff. The article reframes the key issues in light of changes in the work environment and presents a new framework for future research and industry application.
Finite element simulation on clothing pressure and body deformation of the top part of men’s socks using curve fitting equations
Authors: Zhang Mei , Dong Henan , Fan Xuerong , Dan Rui
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– Objective appraisal of pressure comfort is the basement of optimal design of clothing. The purpose of this paper is to study a new method to appraise pressure comfort through displacement distribution, and then explored the multiple relationship between pressure and displacement on the lower leg cross-section using finite element method (FEM) and curve fitting.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper presented a 2D simulation model of the lower leg cross-section consisting of three layer different mechanical properties, namely skin, soft tissue, and bone. Analyzed the relationship and variation tendency between contact pressure and strain, calculated the multiple relationship between pressure and displacement on the lower leg cross-section where located at the top part of men’s socks in detail, and then obtained the quadratic functional equation between angle and pressure/displacement ratio through segmented curve fitting using Origin 7.5 software.

Findings

– In this research work, the mathematical equation is obtained which describe the relationship between angle and pressure/displacement of the top part of men’s socks. On the premise of the known contact pressure values on the lower leg cross-section, the corresponding displacement values on the human body surface can be obtained by the functional equation under stress, and this displacement could be used as an objective evaluation index for pressure comfort. Based on these conclusions, the authors could provide theoretical reference for pressure prediction and optimizing the design of clothing.

Research limitations/implications

– This paper is unconcerned with the simulating of pressure, strain, and displacement distribution when dressing during the course of walking and running.

Originality/value

– The paper analyzed the relationship and variation tendency between contact pressure and strain using FEM, and then obtained the quadratic functional equation between angle and pressure/displacement ratio of the top part of socks. It can supply a new method to appraise pressure comfort.
The co-creation experience from the customer perspective: its measurement and determinants
Authors: Verleye Katrien
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– Companies increasingly opt for co-creation by engaging customers in new product and service development processes. The purpose of this paper is to provide insight into the customer experience in co-creation situations and its determinants.

Design/methodology/approach

– The conceptual framework addresses the customer experience in co-creation situations, and its individual and environmental determinants. To examine the degree to which these determinants affect the customer experience in co-creation situations, the author starts by proposing and testing a multidimensional co-creation experience scale (n=66). Next, the author employs an experiment to test the hypotheses (n=180).

Findings

– Higher levels of customer role readiness, technologization, and connectivity positively affect different co-creation experience dimensions. The impact of these dimensions on the overall co-creation experience, however, differs according to customers’ expectations in terms of co-creation benefits. Therefore, the author concludes that the expected co-creation benefits determine the importance of the level of customer role readiness, technologization, and connectivity for the co-creation experience.

Originality/value

– This research generates a better understanding of the co-creation experience by providing insight into the co-creation experience dimensions and their relative importance for customers with different expectations in terms of co-creation benefits. Additionally, this research addresses the implications of customer heterogeneity in terms of expected co-creation benefits for designing co-creation environments, thereby helping managers to generate more rewarding co-creation experiences for their customers.
Service experiences beyond the direct use: indirect customer use experiences of smartphone apps
Authors: Dube Apramey , Helkkula Anu
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine customers’ use experiences in a smartphone application (app) context. Apps have emerged as popular tools among marketing practitioners. In service research, however, smartphone apps, and their customers’ use experiences, have received limited attention.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper provides a conceptual overview and draws on an empirical two-phase study comprising diary narratives of using a specific app and semi-structured interviews on the use of multiple apps by app users.

Findings

– Results show that indirect use experiences play an important role in the holistic service experience. Compared with direct experiences, indirect use experiences do not require the actual use of apps or direct contact with the user. Also the context, such as the time and location of app use, is important for both direct and indirect use experience.

Research limitations/implications

– This paper highlights indirect use experiences as a vital component of service experiences and encourages researchers not to restrict use experiences to direct use only. Indirect use experiences enable managers to gain deep insights into the everyday use experiences of current and potential customers.

Originality/value

– First, previous research on service experience has mainly focused on direct use experiences. This study highlights that indirect use experiences are an important part of the service experience. Second, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research is the first attempt to investigate the use experiences of smartphone apps in a service marketing context.
A multidimensional view of intellectual capital: the impact on organizational performance
Authors: Asiaei Kaveh , Jusoh Ruzita
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to empirically explore intellectual capital (IC) from a multidimensional perspective and its relationship with organizational performance (OP) within Iranian public listed companies.

Design/methodology/approach

– Survey data from Chief Financial Officers in 128 companies within Tehran Stock Exchange were collected and analyzed using partial least squares regressions.

Findings

– The findings suggest that organizational culture plays a significant role in developing human capital and structural capital while trust is a major determinant of all the IC components, namely human, structural, relational, and social capital. The results also confirm that the investment in human, structural, and relational capital could potentially bring about OP improvement in Iranian public listed companies.

Practical implications

– A synthesis of various sub-elements of IC supports executives in detecting, capturing, and assessing the different kinds of knowledge resources which must be taken into consideration individually for maximizing OP. Such multidimensional and comprehensive conceptualization of IC would assist organizations to remedy the inefficiency in the exploitation of IC and thereby providing a robust system in order to capture and measure IC more effectively.

Originality/value

– This study combines literature on IC across diverse academic fields. The multidimensional conceptualization of IC with four sub-dimensions (i.e. human, structural, relational, and social capital) as well as supplementing two antecedent constructs (trust and organizational culture) offer a more systematic manner to synthesize several knowledge-based drivers toward performance which have not been addressed simultaneously in a comprehensive framework.
Increasing OCB: the influence of commitment, organizational support and justice
Authors: Perreira Tyrone , Berta Whitney
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to describe the development of a coherent conceptual framework that could guide research that enhances our understanding of the factors that influence extra-role workplace behaviors and work performance in health care. In health-care settings, work performance is dependent upon worker’s extra-role behaviors.

Design/methodology/approach

– The authors draw upon theory and current research in the field of organizational behavior and work motivation to explain the relationships between extra-role behaviors (ERBs), commitment, perceived organizational support (POS) and justice. These behaviors are related to a number of factors, including one’s affective commitment, POS and organizational justice. The influence of most of these concepts on work outcomes has been established in disparate studies, but their precedence in terms of influencing extra-role behaviors is not well understood.

Findings

– An augmented framework is produced, incorporating concepts of relevance to work motivation and work attitudes. Propositions, predicated on research evidence, are offered.

Research limitations/implications

– Spontaneous, emotional and/or reflexive behaviors are not accounted for in the conceptual framework.

Practical implications

– By adjusting interaction with employees, managers can bring about positive effects, facilitating constructive ERBs, which can improve work performance and productivity, patient safety, care quality and enable cost savings.

Originality/value

– This paper offers a novel comprehensive framework based upon a comprehensive literature review.
The Air Mauritius story: how HR can impact company culture
Authors: Kaufman Ron
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to show how HR can quickly impact, create and develop a company’s overall culture of service. When HR leaders seek to guide their companies through essential cultural changes, they can earn a seat at the table.

Design/methodology/approach

– Once a struggling airline, Air Mauritius took steps to overhaul its culture. This case study outlines the steps taken by the airline and explains how HR leaders can use those steps to play a more vital role in their companies.

Findings

– HR leaders should seek to make key cultural changes within a company, as they can lead to substantial measurable results. By creating a service culture, Air Mauritius returned to profitability, earned a 4-Star Skytrax rating and improved employee engagement and customer satisfaction.

Originality/value

– By shining a light on a unique company and its island home nation, this case study provides valuable advice to HR leaders on how they can use cultural changes to play a more significant role in their companies.
Lean Six Sigma tools in the hiring process
Authors: Sahay Pradeep
Published: April 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine how “Lean” principles from the manufacturing world can be adapted to create a best-in-class recruiting function and demonstrate the causal connection between the “value-added” recruiting activity and positive business results.

Design/methodology/approach

– This concept paper is based on practitioner experience in leveraging Lean Six Sigma tools in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the talent acquisition process.

Findings

– Talent acquisition today is an activity fraught with risks – Did we hire the right person, the right skills the right fit? – and has the maximum impact on an organization bottom line. It is more than just posting a requisition and making an offer, but a series of sourcing activities, branding efforts, assessment processes and on-boarding activities and more – all designed to help an organization answer these key questions and find talent relevant to its business context. Appraising some of the evolving best practices in talent acquisition within the larger ambit of talent management issues facing organizations at large underscores the need for a new way of thinking about talent management.

Originality/value

– Being more innovative in sourcing and recruiting can give organizations a sustainable competitive advantage with visible impact on the bottom line.
Immunomodulatory effects of umbilical cord‐derived mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Shawki Shereen , Gaafar Taghrid , Erfan Hadeel , El Khateeb Engy , El Sheikhah Ahmad , El Hawary Rabab
Published: April 2015

Umbilical cord blood (UCB) is of great interest as a source of stem cells for use in cellular therapies. The immunomodulatory effect of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) originating from bone marrow, adipose tissue and amniotic membrane has previously been reported. In this study, MSCs were isolated from UCB with the aim of evaluating their immunomodulatory effects on proliferation of PB lymphocytes by two different techniques; namely, 5‐bromo‐2‐deoxyuridine ELISA and a carboxy fluorescein diacetate succinimidyl ester flow cytometric technique. MSCs were isolated from UCB, propagated until Passage four, and then characterized for cell surface markers by flow cytometry and ability to differentiate towards osteocytes and adipocytes. Immunosuppressive effects on PB lymphocytes were examined by co‐culturing mitomycin C‐treated UCB MSCs with mitogen‐stimulated lymphocytes for 72 hr. Thereafter, proliferation of lymphocytes was detected by CFSE flow cytometry and colorimetric ELISA. The titers of cytokines in cell culture supernatant were also assayed to clarify possible mechanisms of immunomodulation. UCB MSCs suppressed mitogen‐stimulated lymphocyte proliferation, which occurs via both cell‐cell contact and cytokine secretion. Titers of transforming growth factor beta and IL 10 increased, whereas that of IFN‐γ decreased in the supernatants of co‐cultures. Thus, UCB MSCs suppress the proliferation of mitogen‐stimulated lymphocytes. However further in vivo studies are required to fully evaluate the immunomodulatory effects of UCB MSCs.
Food restriction and chronic stress alter energy use and affect immunity in an infrequent feeder
Authors: Neuman‐Lee Lorin A. , Bobby Fokidis H. , Spence Austin R. , Van der Walt Marilize , Smith Geoffrey D. , Durham Susan , French Susannah S.
Published: April 2015

Glucocorticoids are important mediators of energy utilization for key physiological processes, including immune function. Much work has focused on the effects of energy limitation and stress for key physiological processes such as reproduction and immunity. However, it is unclear how stress alters energy use across different energy states, and the physiological ramifications of such effects are even less clear.

In this study, we altered energy and stress states of an infrequent feeder, the terrestrial gartersnake (Thamnophis elegans), using fasting and repeated restraint stress (chronic stressors) to test how these challenges interacted to affect immune function, energy metabolites and glucocorticoid reactivity (a traditional indicator of stress state) to restraint stress, a standardized, acute stressor. After this acute stressor, the snakes which had received chronic stress had increased glucocorticoid reactivity, and both treatments altered energy metabolite use and storage. Evidence of interaction of food restriction and chronic stress treatments on innate immune function and energy metabolites (triglycerides and glycerol) suggests that stress alters energy use in a manner dependent on the energy state of the animal.

Snakes have a remarkable ability to maintain functionality of key physiological processes under stressful conditions but are still susceptible to multiple simultaneous stressors, a situation increasingly prevalent in our ever‐changing environment.
Habitat preference facilitates successful early breeding in an open‐cup nesting songbird
Authors: Germain Ryan R. , Schuster Richard , Delmore Kira E. , Arcese Peter
Published: April 2015

Selecting breeding habitats that ameliorate environmental limits on fitness and facilitate successful reproduction should benefit individual animals. This is particularly true in the temperate zone, where breeding early in a season presents a unique series of environmental challenges that can limit an individual's fitness. While many studies document links between habitat quality and reproductive success, few identify the cues used to assess habitat quality or the components of reproduction most influenced by occupying higher quality habitat, particularly during the early breeding season.

We used detailed spatial maps and observations of all early season nesting attempts in an insular song sparrow (Melospiza melodia) population over 38 years to estimate the influence of nest‐site preference on reproductive success and to test whether relative microclimate or food availability may act as cues for early season site selection.

Female sparrows in preferred early season nest sites had earlier laying dates, exhibited more energetically efficient incubation behaviour and produced more offspring that recruited to the population than those nesting in less‐preferred sites.

Preference for potential nesting sites was positively related to leaf damage by Lepidopteran larvae, an indicator of food abundance, negatively related to early season microclimate, likely due to greater vegetation cover, and unrelated to site‐specific plant phenology.

Our findings show that breeding in preferred, high‐quality habitat may offer females a fitness advantage by facilitating early laying and the production of offspring more likely to recruit to the population at a lower potential reproductive cost to the parent. We provide a clear demonstration of potential links between habitat preference and quality and their contributions to the ecology and life history of animals in seasonal environments.
Identification and expression profiles of putative cytochrome P450 monooxygenase genes from Cnaphalocrocis medinalis (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)
Authors: Liu Su , Rao Xiang‐Jun , Li Mao‐Ye , Li Shi‐Guang
Published: April 2015

In insects, cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (P450s) have received considerable attention for their roles in the detoxification of harmful chemicals and insecticide resistance. The rice leaf‐folder, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis, is a severe lepidopteran rice pest. In this research, 36 putative P450 genes were identified from the transcriptome dataset of C. medinalis. Phylogenetic analysis showed that these genes fell into four clans, including the mitochondrial clan (6 genes), CYP2 clan (5 genes), CYP3 clan (16 genes) and CYP4 clan (9 genes), and were classified into 19 families and 30 subfamilies. Since the CYP6 P450 family in insects is the major family related to the detoxification of xenobiotics, the expression profiles of five genes in the CYP6 family were determined by real‐time quantitative PCR. These genes were differentially expressed in various larval tissues, including the midgut, Malpighian tubules and fat body. Of these, CYP6AW1 and CYP6CV1 were mainly expressed in the midgut, while CYP6AE76 was highly expressed in the fat body. CYP6AB62 and CYP6AE28 were ubiquitously expressed. The transcription of CYP6AE28 was significantly induced by abamectin at LD20 dose. Taken together, the results provided useful information for the characteristics of P450s in C. medinalis and for future functional studies.
Barosensitivity in Saccharomyces cerevisiae is Closely Associated with a Deletion of the COX1 Gene
Authors: Nomura Kazuki , Iwahashi Hitoshi , Iguchi Akinori , Shigematsu Toru
Published: April 2015

High hydrostatic pressure causes physical stress to microorganisms; therefore, this technology may be applied to food pasteurization without introducing the unfavorable effects of thermal denaturation. However, its application is limited to high‐value foods because the treatment requires a robust steel vessel and expensive pressurization equipment. To reduce these costs, we studied the pasteurization of Saccharomyces cerevisiae using relatively moderate high‐pressure levels. A mutant strain isolated by ultraviolet mutagenesis showed significant loss of viability under high‐pressure conditions. Gene expression analysis of the mutant strain revealed that it incurred a deletion of the COX1 gene. Our results suggest that the pressure‐sensitivity can readily be introduced into industrial/food microorganisms by complementing a COX1 deleted mitochondria.
FDG‐PET/CT detection of very early breast cancer in women with breast microcalcification lesions found in mammography screening
Authors: Peng Nan‐Jing , Chou Chen‐Pin , Pan Huay‐Ben , Chang Tsung‐Hsien , Hu Chin , Chiu Yu‐Li , Fu Ting‐Ying , Chang Hong‐Tai
Published: April 2015

Introduction

To assess the efficacy of positron emission tomography/computed tomography with the glucose analogue 2‐[18F]fluoro‐2‐deoxy‐D‐glucose (FDG‐PET/CT) in Taiwanese women with early breast cancer detected by mammography screening.

Methods

Dual‐time‐point imaging of whole‐body supine and breast prone scans using FDG‐PET/CT were performed sequentially in the pre‐operative stage.

Results

A total of 11,849 patients underwent screening mammography, of whom 1,209 (10.2%) displayed positive results. After further investigation, 54 patients underwent FDG‐PET/CT. Post‐operative pathology examinations revealed malignancies in 26 lesions, including invasive breast cancer in 11 cases and non‐invasive breast cancer in 15 cases, as well as benign disease in 30 lesions. The FDG‐PET/CT findings from the whole‐body scans were positive for 9 of 11 invasive breast cancers (81.8%) and 3 of 15 non‐invasive cancers (20%), and they were negative for all benign lesions. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of FDG‐PET/CT with whole‐body supine imaging were 46.2%, 100%, 100% and 68.2%, respectively. Breast prone imaging revealed another patient with ductal carcinoma in situ, increasing the sensitivity to 50%. Importantly, positive PET findings were significantly correlated with tumour histology (P = 0.006), tumour size (P = 0.039) and Ki‐67 expression (P = 0.011).

Conclusions

FDG‐PET/CT with whole‐body scanning demonstrated high sensitivity to invasive breast cancer, limited sensitivity to non‐invasive breast cancer, and high specificity for breast cancer. FDG‐PET/CT might be useful for differentiating tumour invasiveness. However, the good PPV but poor NPV do not allow the physician to discard the biopsy.
Australian and New Zealand recommendations for the diagnosis and management of gout: integrating systematic literature review and expert opinion in the 3e Initiative
Authors: Graf Scott W. , Whittle Samuel L. , Wechalekar Mihir D. , Moi John H. Y. , Barrett Claire , Hill Catherine L. , Littlejohn Geoff , Lynch Nora , Major Gabor , Taylor Andrew L. , Buchbinder Rachelle , Zochling Jane
Published: April 2015

Aim

To develop evidence‐based recommendations for the diagnosis and management of gout in Australia and New Zealand as part of the multi‐national 3e Initiative.

Method

Using a formal voting process, a panel of 78 international rheumatologists selected 10 key clinical questions pertinent to the diagnosis and management of gout. An additional question was also developed by participating Australian and New Zealand rheumatologists. Each question was investigated with a systematic literature review. MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane CENTRAL and abstracts from 2010 to 2011 European League Against Rheumatism and American College of Rheumatology meetings were searched in each review. Relevant studies were independently reviewed by two individuals for data extraction and synthesis and risk of bias assessment. Using this evidence, 47 Australian and New Zealand rheumatologists developed national recommendations. For each recommendation the level of agreement was assessed and the level of evidence graded.

Result

Eleven recommendations were produced relating to the diagnosis of gout, different aspects of the management of gout, cardiovascular and renal comorbidities and the management of asymptomatic hyperuricemia. The mean level of agreement with the recommendations was 9.1 on a 1–10 scale, with 10 representing full agreement.

Conclusion

Eleven Australian and New Zealand recommendations on the diagnosis and management of gout were developed combining systematically reviewed evidence with local expertise, enhancing their utility in clinical practice.
Comparison of once daily radiotherapy to 60 Gy and twice daily radiotherapy to 45 Gy for limited stage small‐cell lung cancer
Authors: Han Dan , Hao Shaoyu , Tao Cheng , Zhao Qian , Wei Yumei , Song Zhengzheng , Li Baosheng
Published: April 2015

Background

This study was designed to compare toxicities, disease control, and survival outcomes for limited disease small‐cell lung cancer (LD‐SCLC) treated with once daily (QD) versus twice daily (BID) radiotherapy.

Methods

All of the patients received four to six cycles of platinum plus etoposide. In the QD group, irradiation was given via conventional radiotherapy with a dose of 60 Gy at 2 Gy per once‐daily fraction. In the BID group, the dose was 45 Gy at 1.5 Gy per twice‐daily fraction.

Results

Data from a total of 143 LD‐SCLC patients treated at the Shandong Cancer Hospital & Institute were retrospectively analyzed. Statistically significant differences were found in the rates of both grade 2 or higher esophagitis (P = 0.036) and pneumonitis (P = 0.043) between QD and BID groups, respectively. Grade 3 esophagitis occurred in 6% of patients receiving QD and 19% of those receiving BID therapy. The median overall survival (OS) of all patients was 30.4 months: 29.5 months for QD therapy, and 31.4 months for BID therapy. The two‐year OS rate was 43.3% for QD therapy, and 48.8% for BID therapy. The two‐year locoregional recurrence‐free survival (LRFS) rate was 45% versus 63.4% for the QD group versus the BID group, respectively.

Conclusions

Pneumonitis was more common in the QD group, and esophagitis was more common in the BID group. Although there were no significant differences in OS and LRFS between the QD and BID groups, there was a trend toward improved local control in the BID group.
Efficacy and safety of late‐course hypofractionated radiation therapy for muscle‐invasive bladder carcinoma after bladder‐conserving surgery
Authors: Song Yi‐peng , Ma Jin‐bo , Wang Lin , Chen Er‐cheng , Liu Peng , Ma Zhao , Zang Ru‐kun , Yu Jin‐ming
Published: April 2015

Aim

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of late‐course hypofractionated radiation treatment of muscle‐invasive bladder carcinoma after bladder‐conserving surgery.

Methods

Seventy‐six patients with transitional cell bladder carcinoma, stage II (T2‐4N0M0), after transurethral resection, were enrolled. Pirarubicin was given at 30 mg/m2 and 100 mL physiological saline once weekly (QW) for 12 weeks through and after intravesical instillation postoperatively. Radiation schedule delivered 46 Gy in 20 fractions for planning target volume, with an additional 20 Gy in five fractions for gross tumor volume as late‐course radiation. Chemotherapy was stopped if Radiation Therapy Oncology Group grade 3 or higher bladder or bowel toxicity occurred. The primary end points were acute toxicity, local control and patients' survival.

Results

One‐, three‐ and five‐year overall survival rates were 98, 78 and 69.5%, respectively. Mean survival time was 58.4 months (95% CI: 52.6, 64.2). In addition, 1‐, 3‐ and 5‐year local control rates were 100, 80.5 and 76.1%, respectively. Mean local control time was 60.7 months (95% CI: 55.1, 66.3). The cumulative incidence of local/regional failure and distant failure was 28.9%. The rate of single local/regional failure was 13.2%, but distant failure rate was 21.1%.

Conclusions

Concurrent pirarubicin‐based late‐course hypofractionated radiation therapy showed desirable local control rate and acceptable toxicity. It could be used after bladder‐conserving surgery to allow patients to preserve their bladder.