bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pre-initiation and elongation structures of full-length La Crosse virus polymerase reveal functionally important conformational changes
Authors: Arragain Benoît , Effantin Grégory , Gerlach Piotr , Reguera Juan , Schoehn Guy , Cusack Stephen , Malet Hélène
Published: March 2020

Bunyaviralesis an order of segmented negative stranded RNA viruses comprising several life-threatening pathogens such as Lassa fever virus (Arenaviridae), Rift Valley Fever virus (Phenuiviridae) and La Crosse virus (LACV,Peribunyaviridae) against which neither specific treatment nor licenced vaccine is available. Replication and transcription ofBunyaviralesgenome constitute essential reactions of their viral cycle that are catalysed by the virally encoded RNA-dependent RNA polymerase or L protein. Here we describe the complete high-resolution cryo-EM structure of the full-length (FL) LACV-L protein. It reveals the presence of key C-terminal domains, notably the cap-binding domain that undergoes large movements related to its role in transcription initiation and a zinc-binding domain that displays a fold not previously observed. We capture the structure of LACV-L FL in two functionally relevant states, pre-initiation and elongation, that reveal large conformational changes inherent to its function. We uncover the coordinated movement of the polymerase priming loop, lid domain and C-terminal region required for the establishment of a ten-base-pair template-product RNA duplex before strand separation into respective exit tunnels. The revealed structural details and dynamics of functional elements will be instrumental for structure-based development of compounds that inhibit RNA synthesis by the polymerase.
Dissection of prostate tumour, stroma and immune transcriptional components reveals a key contribution of the microenvironment for disease progression
Authors: Mangiola Stefano , McCoy Patrick , Modrak Martin , Souza-Fonseca-Guimaraes Fernando , Blashki Daniel , Stuchbery Ryan , Keam Simon P. , Kerger Michael , Chow Ken , Nasa Chayanica , Le Page Melanie , Lister Natalie , Monard Simon , Peters Justin , Dundee Phil , Costello Anthony J. , Neeson Paul J. , Williams Scott G. , Pal Bhupinder , Huntington Nicholas D. , Corcoran Niall M. , Papenfuss Anthony T. , Hovens Christopher M.
Published: March 2020

Prostate cancer is caused by genomic aberrations in normal epithelial cells, however clinical translation of findings from analyses of cancer cells alone has been very limited. A deeper understanding of the tumour microenvironment is needed to identify the key drivers of disease progression and reveal novel therapeutic opportunities. In this study, the experimental enrichment of selected cell-types and the development of a Bayesian inference model for continuous differential transcript abundance permitted us to define the transcriptional landscape of the prostate cancer microenvironment along the disease progression axis. An important role of monocytes and macrophages in prostate cancer progression and disease recurrence was uncovered, supported by both transcriptional landscape findings and by differential tissue composition analyses. These findings were corroborated and validated by spatial analyses at the single-cell level using multiplex immunohistochemistry. This study advances our knowledge concerning the role of monocyte-derived recruitment in primary prostate cancer, and supports their key role in disease progression, patient survival and prostate microenvironment immune modulation.
Stoichiometry of two plant glycine decarboxylase complexes and comparison with a cyanobacterial glycine cleavage system
Authors: Wittmiß Maria , Mikkat Stefan , Hagemann Martin , Bauwe Hermann
Published: March 2020

The multienzyme glycine cleavage system (GCS) converts glycine and tetrahydrofolate to the one-carbon compound 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate, which is of vital importance for most if not all organisms. Photorespiring plant mitochondria contain very high levels of GCS proteins organised as a fragile glycine decarboxylase complex (GDC). The aim of this study is to provide mass spectrometry-based stoichiometric data for the plant leaf GDC and examine whether complex formation could be a general property of the GCS in photosynthesizing organisms. The molar ratios of the leaf GDC component proteins are 1L2-4P2-8T-26H and 1L2-4P2-8T-20H for pea and Arabidopsis, respectively, as determined by mass spectrometry. The minimum mass of the plant leaf GDC ranges from 1,550-1,650 kDa, which is larger than previously assumed. The Arabidopsis GDC contains four times more of the isoforms GCS-P1 and GCS-L1 in comparison with GCS-P2 and GCS-L2, respectively, whereas the H-isoproteins GCS-H1 and GCS-H3 are fully redundant as indicated by their about equal amounts. Isoform GCS-H2 is not present in leaf mitochondria. In the cyanobacteriumSynechocystissp. PCC 6803, GCS proteins are present at low concentration but above the complex formation threshold reported for pea leaf GDC. Indeed, formation of a cyanobacterial GDC from the individual recombinant GCS proteinsin vitrocould be demonstrated. Presence and metabolic significance of aSynechocystisGDCin vivoremain to be examined but could involve multimers of the GCS H-protein that dynamically crosslink the three GCS enzyme proteins, facilitating glycine metabolism by the formation of multienzyme metabolic complexes.
Integrating independent microbial studies to build predictive models of anaerobic digestion inhibition by ammonia and phenol
Authors: Poirier Simon , Déjean Sébastien , Midoux Cédric , Lê Cao Kim-Anh , Chapleur Olivier
Published: March 2020

Anaerobic digestion (AD) is a microbial process that can efficiently degrade organic waste into renewable energies such as methane-rich biogas. However, the underpinning microbial mechanisms are highly vulnerable to a wide range of inhibitory compounds, leading to process failure and economic losses. High-throughput sequencing technologies enable the identification of microbial indicators of digesters inhibition and can provide new insights into the key phylotypes at stake during AD process. But yet, current studies have used different inocula, substrates, geographical sites and types of reactors, resulting in indicators that are not robust or reproducible across independent studies. In addition, such studies focus on the identification of a single microbial indicator that is not reflective of the complexity of AD. Our study proposes the first analysis of its kind that seeks for a robust signature of microbial indicators of phenol and ammonia inhibitions, whilst leveraging on 4 independent in-house and external AD microbial studies. We applied a recent multivariate integrative method on two-in-house studies to identify such signature, then predicted the inhibitory status of samples from two datasets with more than 90% accuracy. Our study demonstrates how we can efficiently analyze existing studies to extract robust microbial community patterns, predict AD inhibition, and deepen our understanding of AD towards better AD microbial management.

Highlights

Robust biomarkers of AD inhibition were tagged by integrating independent 16S studies

Increase of theClostridialesrelative abundance is an early warning of AD inhibition

Cloacimonetesis associated with good performance of biomethane production

Multivariate model predicts ammonia inhibition with 90% accuracy in external data
Identification of Ca-rich dense granules in human platelets using scanning transmission X-ray microscopy
Authors: Trinh Tung X. , Kwon Sook Jin , Gerelkhuu Zayakhuu , Choi Jang Sik , Song Jaewoo , Yoon Tae Hyun
Published: March 2020

Whole-mount (WM) platelet preparation followed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observation is the standard method currently used to assess dense granule (DG) deficiency (DGD). However, due to the electron-density-based contrast mechanism in TEM, other granules such as α-granules might cause false DG detection. Here, scanning transmission X-ray microscopy (STXM) was used to identify DGs and minimize false DG detection of human platelets. STXM image stacks of human platelets were collected at the calcium (Ca) L
2,3 absorption edge and then converted to optical density maps. Ca distribution maps, obtained by subtracting the optical density maps at the pre-edge region from those at the post-edge region, were used to identify DGs based on the Ca richness. DGs were successfully detected using this STXM method without false detection, based on Ca maps for four human platelets. Spectral analysis of granules in human platelets confirmed that DGs contain a richer Ca content than other granules. The Ca distribution maps facilitated more effective DG identification than TEM which might falsely detect DGs. Correct identification of DGs would be important to assess the status of platelets and DG-related diseases. Therefore, this STXM method is proposed as a promising approach for better DG identification and diagnosis, as a complementary tool to the current WM TEM approach.
Agricultural sector value chain and government policy in Nigeria: issues, challenges and prospects
Authors: Olomu Michael Oluwaseun , Ekperiware Moses Clinton , Akinlo Taiwo
Published: March 2020

Purpose

This paper systematically reviewed the contributions of the recent Nigerian government agricultural policies and the impacts on the agricultural value chain system in line with the structural transformation of the sector and the Nigeria's vision 20:2020. The study also suggest strategies to upgrading various segments of the agricultural value chain and argue that Nigeria's agricultural sector requires huge investments and innovative ideas to increase production and create value addition across the most profitable areas of the value chain.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors systematically present evidences and data from the Central Bank of Nigeria (the apex monetary authority of Nigeria) and Nigerian Bureau of Statistics (oversees and publishes statistics for Nigeria) to estimate the impact of Government agricultural policies on the value chains system.

Findings

The study discovers that the various recent government policy interventions to tackle the austere challenges in the agricultural sector are yet to yield much significant solution. Given to the dwindling performance of the sector, the Nigerian agricultural value chain is somewhat affected with systemic and services gaps which underpin the market failures (missing markets and weak markets), although the agricultural value chain has the potential of triggering economic growth in a higher scale with a trickle-down effect to other sectors of the Nigerian economy.

Practical implications

Overall, the findings indicate strategies to upgrading the production and processing segments of the agricultural value chain and argues that Nigeria's agricultural sector requires huge investments and innovative ideas to increase production and create value addition across the most profitable areas of the value chain.

Social implications

The study proves that enhancing value addition in the agricultural sector is imperative to achieving triple-benefits of increasing productivity by building resilient systems that leverage on finance opportunities, deepening economic inclusive growth and achieving great milestones.

Originality/value

This study is the first attempt to focus on agricultural value chain system in line with the structural transformation and the Nigeria's vision 20:2020.
Increasing online shop revenues with web scraping: a case study for the wine sector
Authors: Jorge Oriol , Pons Adria , Rius Josep , Vintró Carla , Mateo Jordi , Vilaplana Jordi
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Wine has been produced for thousands of years and nowadays we have seen a spread in the wine culture. E-commerce sales of wine have increased considerably and online customer's satisfaction is influenced by quality and price. This paper presents a case study of the company “QuieroVinos, S.L.”, an online wine shop founded in 2015 that sells Spanish wines in two main marketplaces.

Design/methodology/approach

With the final target of increasing the company profits it has been designed and developed an application to track the prices of competitors for a set of products. This information will be used to set the product prices in order to offer the products both competitively and profitably in each Marketplace. This application must check, by tacking into account information such as the product cost or the minimum product margin, if it is possible to decrease the price in order to reach the top cheapest position and as a consequence, increase the sales.

Findings

The application improved in a notorious way the company's results in terms of sales and shipping costs. It must be said that without the use of the presented application, performing the price comparison process within each one of the marketplaces would have taken a long time. Moreover, as prices change very frequently, the obtained information has a very limited time value, and the competitors prices should be analyzed daily in order to take accurate decisions regarding the company's price policy.

Originality/value

Although the application has been designed for the wine sector and the two named marketplace, it could be exported to other sectors. For that, it should be implemented new modules to collect information regarding the competitor's price of the products selling on each corresponding marketplace.
Food for thought
Authors: Melović Boban , Dabić Marina , Rogić Sunčica , Đurišić Vladimir , Prorok Vesna
Published: March 2020

Purpose

This paper seeks to identify the factors that influence the perceptions and attitudes of young people in Montenegro toward organic products.

Design/methodology/approach

The results of the research, obtained using the multivariate factor analysis, showed that the vast majority of young consumers identify organic food as healthy and natural and that its higher price is a significant barrier inhibiting their likelihood of purchasing it, along with inaccessibility and the limited options offered.

Findings

The data obtained provides valuable information for managers and decision-makers working in organic food production and sales in Montenegro – a country with the potential to develop in this field.

Research limitations/implications

The study was carried out in the CEE transition country of Montenegro, with 300 young consumers. Further research is needed to validate the results through longitudinal study.

Practical implications

The data obtained represents a meaningful contribution to the field of organic food production and sale in Montenegro (which is a country with a lot of potential in this area) and will assist managers and decision-makers in the field.

Social implication

Unlike most research that has previously examined issues concerning organic production – such as its standardization, financing, environmental impact, and even its promotion – this paper provides a better understanding of the behavior of young consumers toward organic products in Montenegro by outlining their perceptions and attitudes toward this product category.

Originality/value

This research represents the first academic study of customers' attitudes and perceptions in this area, alongside the main factors affecting the young consumer's choice to purchase organic food in Montenegro.
An enriched formulation of isogeometric analysis applied to the dynamical response of bars and trusses
Authors: Rauen Mateus , Machado Roberto Dalledone , Arndt Marcos
Published: March 2020

Purpose

This study aims to present a new hybrid formulation based on non-uniform rational b-splines functions and enrichment strategies applied to free and forced vibration of straight bars and trusses.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the idea of enrichment from generalized finite element method (GFEM)/extended finite element method (XFEM), an extended isogeometric formulation (partition of unity isogeometric analysis [PUIGA]) is conceived. By numerical examples the methods are tested and compared with isogeometric analysis, finite element method and GFEM in terms of convergence, error spectrum, conditioning and adaptivity capacity.

Findings

The results show a high convergence rate and accuracy for PUIGA and the advantage of input enrichment functions and material parameters on parametric space.

Originality/value

The enrichment strategies demonstrated considerable improvements in numerical solutions. The applications of computer-aided design mapped enrichments applied to structural dynamics are not known in the literature.
The strategy of human resource flexibility versus absorptive capacity of knowledge
Authors: Martinez-Sanchez Angel , Vicente-Oliva Silvia , Pérez-Pérez Manuela
Published: March 2020

Purpose

The study analyzes the relationship between human resources (HR) flexibility and absorptive capacity (AC) of knowledge in a sample of Spanish manufacturing firms. The purpose of the research is to analyze if firms with greater AC are more flexible than other firms and to assess the implications of different combinations of HR flexibility and AC for innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

The study sample consisted of 1,666 Spanish industrial firms in 2015 compiled from a large set of statements from the Survey of Business Strategies (SBS) questionnaire. The methodology includes a cluster analysis and a case study of selected firms. First, a k-means clustering analysis was carried out to explore how homogeneous are the SBS firms according to several HR flexibility and AC measures. The authors complement the clustering itself with some descriptive statistics for each cluster. Second, the statistical analysis is followed by a selection of case studies from industrial firms in different positions regarding innovation, AC, and HR flexibility. The information for the cases studies comes from secondary sources such as corporate governance reports and statements of managers and employees from company websites and public reports.

Findings

The empirical evidence indicates that some combinations of HR flexibility and AC are positively related to innovation outputs whereas others are not. Firms with greater AC, R&D effort and innovation outputs have less “bad” HR flexibility (external numerical flexibility from temporary employees and temporary help agencies) and more “good” HR flexibility (internal and external functional flexibility). On the contrary, firms with minimum or non-existent innovation and AC efforts have the highest levels of temporary employment and do not hire external R&D experts.

Research limitations/implications

The limitations of the cross-sectional nature of the study make the authors cautious about any proposition that may suggest a causal relationship among the studied variables.

Practical implications

Managers should pay attention to the different implications of each HR flexibility dimension for innovation activities since innovative companies value more those HR flexibility dimensions that contribute to the dispersion of knowledge within the firm.

Originality/value

The authors propose a framework to analyze the combination of HR flexibility and AC most suitable to different types of firms. Based on the statistical analyses and the case studies, the authors propose some strategic implications useful for the management of human resources. The matrix's framework analyzes the firm's innovation strategies according to the interactions between AC and the mix of HR flexibility dimensions.
Economics of trickle-down corruption
Authors: Nuryyev Guych , Hickson Charles
Published: March 2020

Purpose

This study aims to examine the effect of the crude oil price crash of 2014 on corruption decentralisation. In a corrupt state, a significant decrease in the state revenue might lead to concentration of power in the hands of the political elite who try to maintain their income, or to a weakening of the elite’s control as the bureaucrats compete for bribes.

Design/methodology/approach

Crude oil price crash provides a rare opportunity to test the effect of reduced state revenue on corruption decentralisation. This study constructs a measure for corruption decentralisation and analyses how it is affected by state income in 18 resource-rich and corrupt states.

Findings

The empirical model suggests that there is a positive relationship between corruption decentralisation and state oil and gas revenue, implying that as the revenue decreases, political elite in the exporting countries manage to maintain their control over the bureaucrats.

Originality/value

The results are important for academics as well as for policymakers, as they allow adjustment of anti-corruption efforts based on the level of corruption decentralisation.
Ethnocentric HRM practices: evidence from Western MNEs in Ghana
Authors: Azungah Theophilus , Hutchings Kate , Michailova Snejina
Published: March 2020

Purpose

This paper examines Western multinational enterprises’ (MNEs) application of ethnocentrism in human resource management (HRM) practices utilised in their subsidiaries in Ghana. The practices examined include recruitment and selection, training and development, performance management and rewards management.

Design/methodology

The paper draws on interviews with 13 managers and 24 employees as well as documentary analysis in 8 British, European and US MNEs in Ghana.

Findings

The findings indicate that weak institutions in the local context, coupled with the technologically and economically advanced nature of Western countries compared to Ghana, account for ethnocentric HRM practices in MNEs’ Ghanaian subsidiaries.

Practical implications

The paper highlights that Ghanaian companies might learn from, and adapt, selected Western HRM practices to improve their competitiveness.

Originality/value

Utilising institutional theory, the paper extends extant research on ethnocentrism in HRM practices of Western MNE subsidiaries in other developing economies to Ghana; one of the fastest growing African economies.
Study on appropriateness between new development and conservation for Bow Barracks housing in Kolkata
Authors: Bose Shivashish
Published: March 2020

Purpose

In the rapidly urbanizing Indian cities, large buildings are being built demolishing old buildings often with historic, cultural and architectural merit bringing the conflict between development and conservation. In Kolkata, the authority has taken a unilateral decision to construct high-rise buildings demolishing a hundred-year old Bow Barracks housing complex. The purpose of this paper is to present a research study that empirically explored the appropriateness of the policy decision and a recommendation for appropriate development based on the research result.

Design/methodology/approach

The design of the research is formulated on the survey method that encompasses observation, interview and collection of data through questionnaire, and survey, documentation and testing of architecture. All findings are analysed; research question and hypothesis are tested with validation.

Findings

The research has found that the old housing is of cultural heritage and use value, and the inhabitants are a very special community in Kolkata. The new development proposal in terms of space generation and cost involvement over the benefit of conserving the existing housing is not beneficial. Therefore, the decision of the local body, in terms of value for money, architecture, culture, heritage and sustainability is not proper.

Originality/value

Such a research exploring the benefit between development and conservation for choice of appropriate path of development in managing the development of a city in global south stands for its uniqueness.
Blockchain in logistics industry: in fizz customer trust or not
Authors: Jain Geetika , Singh Harjit , Chaturvedi K. R. , Rakesh Sapna
Published: March 2020

Purpose

The study is an attempt to explore much talked but less understood issue of “blockchain in logistics industry” in modern perspective. The customers' acceptance of blockchain technology in logistics and supply chain is tested through “Technology Acceptance Model” by using attitude, perceived usefulness (PU), perceived ease of use (PEOU), behavioral intention and use behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

Data has been collected through online and offline medium, where active 240 responses have been collected finally using convenience sampling. Confirmatory factor analysis with structural equation modeling (SEM) was carried out for data analysis.

Findings

The customers' acceptance of blockchain technology in logistics and supply chain is tested through “Technology Acceptance Model.” The findings reveal model fit where PEOU, PU and attitude are the major constructs of the model to realize the substantial gains in logistics process efficiency.

Research limitations/implications

Convenience sampling has been considered for the study to collect the data of online users of various technology applications for tracking and shipment detail, whereas a more specified method sampling can be considered for the future research. The study has been conducted in the Indian context, which has been considered as the limitation pertaining to generalization across countries and industries.

Practical implications

The findings of this study will be helpful for market practitioners to build transparency between customers and industry to overcome the frictions in logistics. Blockchain will help in monitoring the performance history and previous commitments of logistics professionals resulting in selecting a responsible logistics solution provider. Access to critical data by the authorized member of the supply chain will reduce unsubstantiated disputes.

Social implications

Blockchain technology will be available to everyone on the network. This will bring transparency and help logistics professionals such as carriers, shippers and brokers to detect early frauds and prevent thefts. It will increase customer trust toward any financial transaction for tracking the ownership of titles.

Originality/value

Blockchain technology is envisioned to be a technology that could be a game-changer for decentralizing infrastructure, introducing transparency and building trust in the supply chain. The current study is a novel addition to the literature where blockchain technology enables the indisputable storage of verified data that was previously kept in safeguarded silos.
An integrative approach for structuring and prioritising eco-innovation determinants with a survey in knowledge-based companies
Authors: Shahin Aryana , Imanipour Narges , Shahin Arash , Wood Lincoln C.
Published: March 2020

Purpose

This study aims to develop a comprehensive set of determinants and sub-determinant of eco-innovation (EI) and to propose an approach for their structuring and prioritisation.

Design/methodology/approach

A framework was developed based on a literature review, interpretive structural modelling (ISM) was used to structure the main determinants and the results were transferred into a six-phase quality function deployment (QFD) for prioritising the sub-determinants. The statistical population included 15 experts and the middle/top managers of 130 knowledge-based companies.

Findings

Based on the results of the driving power and dependence diagram from the ISM, a seven-level classification of the main determinants has been used. The QFD results indicated ‘meeting environmental law standards’; ‘scale to support innovative strategies’; ‘commitment to continually improve and make eco-innovations’; ‘technological advisory oriented to environment’; ‘product and process EI oriented methods’; ‘improvements in energy efficiency across the company and the market’ and ‘reputation, brand image, and profit margin’ as the priorities of the sub-determinants of eco-innovation in the phases of the developed QFD.

Practical implications

The findings of this study provide evidence of the usefulness of decision-making approaches such as ISM and QFD in resolving environmental problems, which is helpful to analysts and practitioners in the field of EI.

Originality/value

The novel ISM+EID2 approach proposed distinguishes this study from previous studies. The approach allows elaboration on the model presented by de Pacheco et al. (2017) by adding nine empirically derived sub-determinants.
Knowledge transfer in the football industry: a sectorial analysis of factors and determinants
Authors: Lombardi Rosa , Trequattrini Raffaele , Cuozzo Benedetta , Paoloni Paola
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Over recent decades, knowledge transfer processes and knowledge-intensive organizations have been increasingly investigated from several perspectives. Knowledge translation activated by knowledge-intensive organizations is supported by several factors, among which intangible assets play a significant role. Our research mainly investigates the relationship between the knowledge owned by knowledge workers in source organizations and the process of its translation to recipient organizations. Specifically, this paper aims at analyzing knowledge translation and organizational performance in the football industry, uncovering both the role of professional football players' skills transfer and the determinants of achieving positive performance at the organizational level.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative method is adopted, using both bivariate linear regression analysis and network analysis. Using key aspects of Nakauchiet al.'s (2007) knowledge transfer framework, intra-organizational dynamics are analyzed based on measurements of the performance of professional football players before and after transferring from one club (the source organization) to another (the recipient organization).

Findings

Our research results are mainly intended to show the factors that influence knowledge translation in the light of team performance improvement. Our empirical analysis shows the need for the coexistence of a combination of factors, especially the quality of the source and recipient organizations and of the relationship between them, to achieve the transferability of professional football players' capabilities and performance.

Practical implications

The academic community, practitioners and policymakers can draw on the theoretical and practical advances made by the findings to address knowledge translation issues with an improved understanding of its factors and determinants.

Originality/value

Despite some limitations to the study, we identify the factors, determinants and contexts that facilitate the transfer of knowledge and specialist knowledge and thus contribute to the successful operation of contemporary organizations. Moreover, the results of our analysis are applicable to all economic sectors.
Competently skilled human capital through education for the hospitality and tourism industry
Authors: Kasa Mark , Kho Joey , Yong Danial , Hussain Kashif , Lau Patrick
Published: March 2020

Purpose

This study aims to explore the viability of the curricula offered by a university specialising in hospitality and tourism education in Kuching, Sarawak. The study also aims to explore the relevance and application of the hospitality and tourism education curricula to the needs of the Sarawak hospitality and tourism industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Grounded in human capital theory, the article highlights the importance of education in facilitating competently skilled human capital. Using a qualitative research approach, the outcomes indicate that the curricula offered by the hospitality and tourism education sector does meet the basic industry needs in Sarawak.

Findings

The outcomes suggest that the education sector should adopt a work-based learning model as this is shown to be an effective approach to enhancing practical relevance and competency.

Originality/value

There is insufficient empirical evidence on the exact set of skills and knowledge needed by an individual to be competently skilled in response to the needs of the hospitality and tourism industry in Sarawak.
Factors affecting target motion in stereotactic body radiotherapy of liver cancer using CyberKnife
Authors: Lo Kevin MY , Wu Vincent WC , Li Yu , Jun Xu Hui
Published: March 2020

Introduction

In stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) of solitary liver cancer, organ motion due to respiration is an important factor in the definition of planning target volume (PTV). This study evaluated the potential associations of target motion with gross tumour volume (GTV) size, tumour location, Child–Pugh score and intra‐fraction treatment time in SBRT of liver cancer treated by CyberKnife.

Methods

Translational motion data of 145 liver cancer patients, who were previously treated by CyberKnife with free breathing under tumour tracking, were recorded in the log files of the motion tracking system and analysed. The factors including target location based on liver segments, Child–Pugh score which was an indication of liver cirrhosis, GTV size and intra‐fraction treatment time were recorded and their associations with the magnitude of target movement were evaluated.

Results

Target location demonstrated significant association with the translational target motion in the supero‐inferior (SI) and left–right (LR) directions but less in antero‐posterior (AP) direction. Tumours located at the peripheral segments were more affected than the central segments. Child–Pugh score and GTV size were not significantly associated with target motion in any direction. Longer intra‐fraction treatment time generally increased target motion in the SI and LR directions.

Conclusion

In SBRT of liver cancer, the target motions in SI and LR directions were correlated with the location of target and treatment time, but not with Child–Pugh score and GTV size. These results should assist in deciding the GTV‐PTV margin in SBRT treatment planning for solitary liver cancer.
The Effects of Monetary Policy Shocks on Income Inequality Across U.S. States
Authors: Siami‐Namini Sima , Lyford Conrad , Trindade A. Alexandre
Published: March 2020

Using a time series cross‐state panel data of 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia (DC) over the period of 1959 through 2015, this article intends to assess the direct and indirect effects of contractionary monetary policy shocks on income inequality through interest rate and consumer price index (CPI) inflation channels. To address this, the authors examine two possible linear and non‐linear relationships between inflation and income inequality and between gross domestic product (GDP) and income inequality. Using various measures of income inequality, the results of the pooled model and the individual fixed effect model show that CPI inflation positively and interest rate negatively affect all measures of income inequality in linear regression. The results confirm the existence of the non‐linearity relationship between inflation and income inequality as well as the Kuznets inverted “U‐shaped” hypothesis between GDP and income inequality. The results of linear and non‐linear regressions show that the DC and the state of Ohio are better off and worse off than the state of Alabama as baseline of models, respectively. The impulse response functions (IRFs) for the individual panel vector autoregressive (PVAR) models show that income inequality could be reduced by implementing contractionary monetary policy through interest rate channel in the short run and increased persistently pursuing contractionary monetary policies via inflation channel in the long run.
The role of the company secretary in facilitating board effectiveness: reporting and compliance
Authors: Nowland John , Chapple Larelle , Johnston Joseph
Published: March 2020

This study investigates how company secretaries (CS) influence board practices and financial reporting. All public companies have a secretary and this position may be combined with Chief Financial Officer (CFO) or legal counsel. Examining the period 2004–2015, we find that joint CS/CFOs hold more audit committee meetings, are associated with less earnings management and a greater likelihood of a clean audit opinion. Companies with joint CS/legal counsels are more timely filers and company secretaries of multiple companies schedule fewer committee meetings. These results indicate that company secretaries significantly influence board practices and financial reporting, depending on their role and busyness.
Microglia depletion and alcohol: Transcriptome and behavioral profiles
Authors: Warden Anna S. , Triplett Todd A. , Lyu Aram , Grantham Emily K. , Azzam Moatasem M. , DaCosta Adriana , Mason Sonia , Blednov Yuri A. , Ehrlich Lauren I.R. , Mayfield R. Dayne , Harris R. Adron
Published: March 2020

Alcohol abuse induces changes in microglia morphology and immune function, but whether microglia initiate or simply amplify the harmful effects of alcohol exposure is still a matter of debate. Here, we determine microglia function in acute and voluntary drinking behaviors using a colony‐stimulating factor 1 receptor inhibitor (PLX5622). We show that microglia depletion does not alter the sedative or hypnotic effects of acute intoxication. Microglia depletion also does not change the escalation or maintenance of chronic voluntary alcohol consumption. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that although many immune genes have been implicated in alcohol abuse, downregulation of microglia genes does not necessitate changes in alcohol intake. Instead, microglia depletion and chronic alcohol result in compensatory upregulation of alcohol‐responsive, reactive astrocyte genes, indicating astrocytes may play a role in regulation of these alcohol behaviors. Taken together, our behavioral and transcriptional data indicate that microglia are not the primary effector cell responsible for regulation of acute and voluntary alcohol behaviors. Because microglia depletion did not regulate acute or voluntary alcohol behaviors, we hypothesized that these doses were insufficient to activate microglia and recruit them to an effector phenotype. Therefore, we used a model of repeated immune activation using polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (poly(I:C)) to activate microglia. Microglia depletion blocked poly(I:C)‐induced escalations in alcohol intake, indicating microglia regulate drinking behaviors with sufficient immune activation. By testing the functional role of microglia in alcohol behaviors, we provide insight into when microglia are causal and when they are consequential for the transition from alcohol use to dependence.
Recent land‐use changes affect stream ecosystem processes in a subtropical island in Brazil
Authors: Lemes da Silva Aurea Luiza , Lemes William Padilha , Andriotti Jéssica , Petrucio Mauricio Mello , Feio Maria João
Published: March 2020

Land‐use changes such as conversion of natural forest to rural and urban areas have been considered as main drivers of ecosystem functions decline, and a large variety of indicators has been used to investigate these effects. Here, we used a replicated litter‐bag experiment to investigate the effects of land‐use changes on the leaf‐litter breakdown process and leaf‐associated invertebrates along the forest–pasture–urban gradient located in a subtropical island (Florianópolis, SC, Brazil). We identified the invertebrates and measured the litter breakdown rates using the litter bags approach. Litter bags containing 3 g of dry leaf of Alchornea triplinervia were deployed on forest rural and urban streams. Principal component analysis, based on physico‐chemical variables which, confirmed a gradient of degradation from forest to urban streams with intermediate values in rural areas. In accordance, shredder richness and abundance were lower in rural and urban than in forest streams. The land‐use changes led also to the dominance of tolerant generalist taxa (Chironomidae and Oligochaeta) reducing the taxonomic and functional diversity in these sites. Leaf‐litter breakdown rates decreased from forest to rural and finally to urban areas and were associated with changes in pH, water velocity, dissolved oxygen and abundance of leaf‐shredding invertebrates, although global decomposition rates did not differ between rural and urban streams. Overall, this study showed that land‐use changes, namely to rural and urban areas, have a strong impact on tropical streams ecosystems, in both processes and communities composition and structure. Despite of being apparently a smaller transformation of landscape, rural land use is comparable to urbanisation in terms of impact in stream functioning. It is thus critical to carefully plan urban development and maintain forest areas in the island of Florianópolis in order to preserve its natural biodiversity and aquatic ecosystems functioning.
Cross‐anatomical, radiographic and computed tomographic study of the stifle joint of donkeys (Equus africanus asinus)
Authors: Abumandour Mohamed M. A. , Bassuoni Naglaa F. , El‐Gendy Samir , Karkoura Ashraf , El‐Bakary Raafat
Published: March 2020

The present investigation was conducted to provide a full anatomical description of the stifle joint of donkeys using 3D computed tomography imaging technique, in addition to the classic anatomical methods, such as radiography and cross‐anatomical sectioning. The radiography and CT imaging of stifle joint were interpreted in comparison with cross‐sectional anatomical sections. Volume‐rendering reconstruction techniques (3D‐CT) were used to describe the anatomical structure of stifle joint. The used twelve adult healthy donkeys were free from any musculoskeletal disorders. Four donkeys were used for the gross anatomical observations, four for CT and radiography and two live animals for determination the site of injections. The results of this study revealed that the complex stifle joint was formed from three joints: femorotibial, femoropatellar and proximal tibiofibular. The articular surfaces were described for each joint, and the synovial layer of the articular capsule formed three main joint sacs: femoropatellar, medial femorotibial and lateral femorotibial sacs. The ligaments of stifle joint were recorded, and meniscal ligaments included cranial and caudal ligaments of medial and lateral menisci and meniscofemoral ligament of lateral meniscus. The cruciate ligaments were also described and they included the cranial and caudal cruciate ligaments, while the patellar ligament included the medial, middle and lateral patellar ligaments. The arterial supply and the site of injection of the stifle joint were described. In conclusion, the 3D reconstruction CT provided well‐defined baseline reference image for the stifle joint of donkeys for anatomist, radiologist, surgeons and researchers.
Initial Information on a Novel Nicotine Product
Authors: Plurphanswat Nantaporn , Hughes John R. , Fagerström Karl , Rodu Brad
Published: March 2020

Background and Objectives

This is the first study to assess the appeal and interest among adults in a new consumer tobacco product, ZYN. We also describe ZYN users, patterns of use, and reasons for use.

Methods

Two data sets, consisting of a ZYN‐naive consumer panel (n = 5179) and ZYN users (n = 1266), were provided by Swedish Match North America. Descriptive, cross‐sectional analyses and logistic regression assessed the perceptions of and likelihood of buying ZYN in the consumer panel and the characteristics of ZYN users.

Results

The majority of current smokeless tobacco (ST) users in the consumer panel found that ZYN was moderately‐extremely appealing, while never and former tobacco users indicated much less interest; the former were more likely to buy ZYN than other groups. The highest percentage of ZYN users were former tobacco users (43%); very few were never users (4%). The most popular reason for using ZYN was “Less harmful to my health than other tobacco products,” followed by “ease of use.”

Discussion and Conclusions

Nonusers of tobacco had very little interest in ZYN. ST users are not only more interested and likely to buy ZYN than other tobacco users, they were the largest group of regular users.

Scientific Significance

The first assessment of a new nicotine product, ZYN, suggests that current and former tobacco users may perceive ZYN as a reduced‐risk product. ZYN potentially could be used as a smoking/tobacco‐cessation aid based on reasons of current users. (Am J Addict 2020;00:00–00)
Prevalence, incidence and management of atopic dermatitis in Australian general practice using routinely collected data from MedicineInsight
Authors: Chidwick Kendal , Busingye Doreen , Pollack Allan , Osman Rawa , Yoo Jeannie , Blogg Suzanne , Rubel Diana , Smith Saxon
Published: March 2020

Background/Objectives

The prevalence of atopic dermatitis (AD) has increased significantly in industrialised countries in recent decades but data about the incidence or prevalence of AD in Australia are sparse. We aimed to determine the prevalence and incidence of AD among patients seen in Australian general practice and the use of specified medicines.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study of 2.1 million patients attending 494 general practices in the MedicineInsight program from 1 January 2017 to 31 December 2018. We assessed the prevalence (lifetime and current), incidence, management and severity of AD.

Results

The lifetime (ever diagnosed) prevalence of AD in this general practice population was 16.4% and was greater in females (17.3%) than males (15.3%). One in five patients with AD were classified as having moderate‐to‐severe disease. Prevalence over the last two years was 6.3%. The incidence of AD in 2018 was 2.0% and was greater in females (2.2%) and for patients aged 0–4 years (3.9%). Patients with AD had an increased risk of insomnia, anxiety and depression, compared to those with no recorded AD. For AD patients, topical corticosteroids were the most commonly prescribed AD medication (36.5%) and topical calcineurin inhibitors the least (0.1%), with systemic corticosteroids (15.6%) more commonly prescribed than other immunosuppressants (0.9%).

Conclusions

Our findings provide important insights into the epidemiology of AD and its management in Australian general practice. This information is likely to be useful in planning effective interventions to support GPs in the optimal management of patients with AD.
Retrospective evaluation of prognostic factors in metastatic spine disease: serum albumin and primary tumour type are key
Authors: Cook William H. , Baker Joseph F.
Published: March 2020

Background

Treatment decisions for metastatic spine disease are complex and depend on prognosis. Four prognostic systems in use are the Oswestry Risk Index, modified Bauer score (MBS), van der Linden score and New England Spinal Metastasis Score (NESMS). We aimed to determine the performance of these scoring systems in a New Zealand cohort of patients and develop a prognostic score specific to this demographic.

Methods

A retrospective review of a patient cohort from 2009 to 2016 was undertaken. Scores and individual scoring items were evaluated with univariate and multivariate analyses. Significant items were used to design a simple, population‐specific objective scoring system, which was then tested.

Results

A total of 106 patients receiving either surgery and radiotherapy (65) or radiotherapy alone (41) were included. Mean post‐treatment survival time was 13.7 months. All scoring systems were significantly correlated with survival and had similar concordances. The MBS had the largest coefficient of determination (Cox and Snell's R2 = 0.18), followed by the NESMS (R2 = 0.14). On multivariate analysis, the lung cancer (MBS) and serum albumin (NESMS) items were significant. A modified Oswestry Risk Index primary tumour item and NESMS serum albumin outperformed the MBS (R2 = 0.20), providing the basis for a prognostic scoring tool specific to our demographic.

Conclusion

Based on serum albumin and primary tumour type, we propose the ‘Metastatic Spine Risk Index’ as a simple and objective tool, specific to our population for predicting survival, which can be used in conjunction with other clinical information when considering treatment options.