bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Statistical classification of dynamic bacterial growth with sub-inhibitory concentrations of nanoparticles and its implications for disease treatment
Authors: Jones A-Andrew D , Medina-Cruz David , Kim Na Yoon(Julie) , Mi Gujie , Bartomeu-Garcia Caterina , Baranda-Pellejero Lorena , Bassous Nicole , Webster Thomas J.
Published: July 2020

Nanoparticles are promising alternatives to antibiotics since nanoparticles are easy to manufacture, non-toxic, and do not promote resistance. Nanoparticles act via physical disruption of the bacterial membrane and/or the generation of high concentrations of reactive-oxygen species locally. Potential for physical disruption of the bacterial membrane may be quantified by free energy methods, such as the extended Derjuan-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek theory, which predicts the initial surface-material interactions. The generation of reactive-oxygen species may be quantified using enthalpies of formation to predict minimum inhibitory concentrations. Neither of these two quantitative structure-activity values describes the dynamic,in situbehavioral changes in the bacteria’s struggle to survive. In this paper, borrowing parameters from logistic, oscillatory, and diauxic growth models, we use principal component analysis and agglomerative hierarchical clustering to classify survival modes across nanoparticle types and concentrations. We compare the growth parameters of 170 experimental interactions between nanoparticles and bacteria. The bacteria studied includeEscherichia coli,Staphylococcus aureus, Methicillin-ResistantStaphylococcus aureus,Staphylococcus epidermidis,Pseudomonas aeruginosa, andHelicobacter pylori, and were tested across multiple concentrations of liposomal drug delivery systems, amphiphilic peptide, and silver and selenium nanoparticles. Clustering reveals specific pairs of bacteria and nanoparticles where the nanoparticle induced growth dynamics could potentially spread the infection through the development of resistance and tolerance. This rapid screening also shows that bacteria generated nanoparticles do not induce growth modes indicative of the development of resistance. This methodology can be used to rapidly screen for novel therapeutics that do not induce resistance before using more robust intracellular content screening. This methodology can also be used as a quality check on batch manufactured nanoparticles.
Identification and Characterization of a B-Raf Kinase Alpha Helix Critical for the Activity of MEK Kinase in MAPK Signaling
Authors: Nguyen Diep , Lin Linda Yingqi , Zhou Jeffrey O. , Kibby Emily , Sia Twan W. , Tillis Tiara D. , Vapuryan Narine , Xu Ming-Ray , Potluri Rajiv , Shin YongJoon , Erler Elizabeth A. , Bronkema Naomi , Boehlmer Daniel J. , Chung Christopher D. , Burkhard Caroline , Zeng Shirley H. , Grasso Michael , Acevedo Lucila A. , Marmorstein Ronen , Fera Daniela
Published: July 2020

In the MAPK pathway, an oncogenic V600E mutation in B-Raf kinase causes the enzyme to be constitutively active, leading to aberrantly high phosphorylation levels of its downstream effectors, MEK and ERK kinases. The V600E mutation in B-Raf accounts for more than half of all melanomas and ∼3% of all cancers and many drugs target the ATP-binding site of the enzyme for its inhibition. Since B-Raf can develop resistance against these drugs and such drugs can induce paradoxical activation, drugs that target allosteric sites are needed. To identify other potential drug targets, we generated and kinetically characterized an active form of B-RafV600Eexpressed using a bacterial expression system. In doing so, we identified an alpha helix on B-Raf, found at the B-Raf-MEK interface, that is critical for their interaction and the oncogenic activity of B-RafV600E. We performed binding experiments between B-Raf mutants and MEK using pull downs and biolayer interferometry, and assessed phosphorylation levels of MEKin vitroand in cells as well as its downstream target ERK to show that mutating certain residues on this alpha helix is detrimental to binding and downstream activity. Our results suggest that this B-Raf alpha helix binding site on MEK could be a site to target for drug development to treat B-RafV600E-induced melanomas.
Understanding critical success factors and perceived future among micro and small firms through entrepreneurial action theory
Authors: Duarte Alonso Abel , Kok Seng Kiat
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This study aims to examine how owners and managers of micro and small enterprises perceive firm success and the future of their businesses. Entrepreneurial action theory is adopted in the analysis and a modified theoretical framework is proposed.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured, face-to-face interviews were conducted with 34 owners and managers representing 32 Italian and Spanish wine businesses; qualitative content analysis was used.

Findings

Eight dimensions common to both groups of participants emerged, with the most prevalent themes revealing strong links with opportunity maximisation. In particular, the importance of perceived critical success factors was manifested by continuous improvements, building relationships, and being perceived highly are in line with perceptions of wineries’ future, including entering demanding markets, becoming a referent for the region, or attaining global recognition.

Originality/value

In investigating critical success factors and the perceived future of businesses from two of the world’s largest wine producers and exporters, this study provides a theoretical, practical and international perspective concerning these dimensions. In addition, this study focuses on Europe’s largest business sector, namely, small and medium enterprises. Furthermore, this study proposes a theoretical framework, which brings together the findings and the insights of entrepreneurial action theory.
A paradoxical approach to instructional leadership
Authors: Shaked Haim
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Perceptual inhibitors to instructional leadership are based on disagreements with the premises of instructional leadership. This study explored how the paradoxical approach, which advocates “both/and” approach to conflicting demands, may moderate the influence of the perceptual inhibitors of instructional leadership.

Design/methodology/approach

The current study is qualitative in nature. Study participants were 30 Israeli school principals, representing the larger body of Israeli principals in terms of sex, age, years of experience, education and school level. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews. Data analysis included a two-step theory-driven coding process.

Findings

This study found that the paradoxical approach allowed school principals to hold conflicting perspectives on instructional leadership simultaneously. Thus, it has reduced the effect of the perceptual inhibitors of instructional leadership, as it permitted principals to delay the decision between the expectation to fulfill the role of instructional leader and their disagreements with it.

Originality/value

Despite prolonged pressures, school principals demonstrate limited involvement in instructional leadership, in part because of perceptual inhibitors. The findings of this study can be used in dealing with these inhibitors.
An incorporated RUU model for multi-agent systems in e-commerce
Authors: Majd Elham , Hobson Mark
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to enhance trust in e-commerce multi-agent systems by presenting a model, called RUU, to select the most trustworthy provider agent based on learning from previous interactions and computing reliability, unreliability and uncertainty.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology comprises analyzing the most representative existing trust models, while a new concept was proposed and measured as unreliability. To make decision about the agents, RUU integrated reliability, unreliability and uncertainty components and used the TOPSIS multi-criteria decision method to select the most trustworthy provider agent. To evaluate the RUU model, the experimentation was carried out in two stages. First, the average accuracy of the model was investigated by simulating RUU in a multi-agent environment. Second, the performance of the model was compared with other related trust models.

Findings

The experimental results revealed that RUU model outperforms current models in providing accurate credibility measurements and computing an accurate trust mechanism for agents, also presenting a decision-making process to choose the most trustworthy provider agent.

Research limitations/implications

The model presented based on different mathematical computations that take time to be calculated, which is a big limitation of computational models.

Practical implications

RUU enables an agent to make effective and sound decisions in light of the uncertainty that exists in e-commerce multi-agent environments.

Originality/value

This paper is beneficial to enhance the fulfilment of purchasing between provider and requester agents. In fact, the proposed model can ensure critical transactions performed securely in e-commerce multi-agent environments.
Female directors on boards. The impact of faultlines on CSR reporting
Authors: Ramon-Llorens M. Camino , Garcia-Meca Emma , Pucheta-Martínez María Consuelo
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to analyze the role of female directors on CSR disclosure. It assumes the existence of faultlines when studying gender diversity and classifies female directors into three categories: industry experts, advisors and community leaders. It also examines the influence of the power of female directors as a moderator on the association between female director categories and CSR disclosure.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper bases on a dynamic generalized method of moments panel estimator which allows controlling for the unobservable heterogeneity and endogeneity and reduces the estimation bias.

Findings

Results confirm the double-sided nature of gender diversity, noting different behavior among female directors according to their experience and backgrounds. Moreover, the dominating owner position of female directors can balance and moderate the effect of female directors appointed for their technical knowledge or political and social ties. The results also confirm the necessity to not consider all women directors as a homogeneous group and explore the influence and interrelations of female faultlines on CSR disclosure.

Practical implications

The paper highlights the need to consider the specific skills, expertise, and connections of female board members when analyzing the effect of board composition, and supports the view that firms should emphasize the unique human and social capital of directors to understand how boards impact on firm strategies. Specifically, the authors support the recommendations of the European Commission (2011) regarding the need to increase skills and expertise when selecting new non-executive female board members.

Social implications

At a time when most governments are introducing active policies that require firms to nominate women to boards, the understanding of the consequences of women’s presence on boards and the interrelations between female power and the diverse categories of female directors is timely and important.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first paper that provides empirical evidence to the scarcely studied area of the human and social capital of female directors’ roles in CSR disclosure, providing an alternative view of the role of women in corporate board effectiveness.
Relationships and impacts of perceived CSR, service quality, customer satisfaction and consumer rights awareness
Authors: Bello Kamarudeen Babatunde , Jusoh Ahmad , Md Nor Khalil
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is threefold: first, to examine the effects of perceived corporate social responsibility (CSR) on service quality, satisfaction and repurchase intention; second, to investigate the mediating (unique and serial) effects of service quality and satisfaction; and third, to determine the moderating effects of consumer rights awareness (CRA) on the relationship between perceived CSR and consumer responses.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data was collected from a sample of 604 customers of the 4 major mobile telecommunications companies in Nigeria. The partial least squares structural equation modeling approach was used to test the hypothesized model.

Findings

Research findings indicate that perceived CSR has direct and positive effects on service quality, satisfaction and repurchase intention. Also, service quality and satisfaction mediates (uniquely and in sequence) the effect of perceived CSR on repurchase intention. In addition, CRA moderates perceived CSR’s effect on service quality perceptions and repurchase intention.

Practical implications

The findings confirm the complementary relationships between CSR, service quality and satisfaction in influencing consumers’ repurchase intention. Managers should imbibe CSR as an intangible attribute that complements high-quality services, leading to enhanced customer satisfaction and repurchase intentions. The findings also suggest that CRA enhances perceived CSR’s effect on service quality perceptions and repurchase intentions. Thus, managers should take proactive steps to inform consumers of their rights, and also show efforts at protecting the same.

Originality/value

This study has overcome the limitation observed in previous studies by testing the sequential mediating effects of service quality and customer satisfaction in the perceived CSR–consumer response relationships. Also, this study represents a pioneering effort at empirically confirming the role of CRA in enhancing perceived CSR’s influence on consumer responses. In addition, the findings also provide insights on the impact of CSR on consumer behavior from a developing country’s perspective.
Pre‐stack seismic inversion based on ‐norm regularized logarithmic absolute misfit function
Authors: Huang Guangtan , Chen Xiaohong , Luo Cong , Chen Yangkang
Published: July 2020

Ill‐posedness is one of the most common and intractable issues that arise when solving geophysical inverse problems. Ill‐posedness could be induced by various factors such as noise, band‐limited intrinsic property of seismic data and inappropriate forward operators. Regularization has been proven to be an effective method widely accepted for mitigating the adverse effects of ill‐posedness. Aiming to improve the stability and fidelity of the pre‐stack seismic inversion process, we implement the inversion in a Bayesian framework, with a logarithmic absolute criterion taken as a likelihood function, and an ‐norm metric as a priori constraint. Here, we exploit the linear approximation as the forward operator, and optimize the regularized misfit function by the alternating direction method of multipliers. Applications of the method to synthetic and real data sets yielded improved inversion results in terms of accuracy and resolution, and demonstrated the robustness of the method to noise.
Multi‐species restoration accelerates recovery of extinguished oyster reefs
Authors: McAfee Dominic , Larkin Catherine , Connell Sean D.
Published: July 2020

A multi‐species approach to habitat restoration may boost the key processes (e.g. recruitment) that enable foundation species to overcome barriers to recovery. Natural systems tend to be formed by co‐occurring foundation species whose synergy drives ecological productivity and resilience beyond that of single foundation species. Yet, restoration remains primarily a single‐species focus enterprise where positive interactions are seldom incorporated into planning. A multi‐species approach that prioritizes species combinations that create emergent properties for their persistence may accelerate habitat recovery and the success of restoration programmes.

On the largest oyster reef restoration project in the Southern Hemisphere, we experimentally established canopy‐forming kelp to test whether they could accelerate the natural recruitment of oysters to substrata monopolized by turf‐forming algae. To understand whether facilitation of oysters was a function of the kelp themselves (biological facilitation) or the physical environment they create (physical facilitation), we compared recruitment to the understorey of living kelp and synthetic kelp mimics.

Despite observing high density oyster recruitment to the turf‐free underside of reef boulders (8,300 oysters/m2), turf algae appeared to inhibit oyster recruitment to the exposed surfaces of the reef, limiting their capacity to grow and form complex, three‐dimensional habitat.

Transplanted kelp, whether living or synthetic kelp mimics, effectively reduced the biomass of turf and enhanced oyster recruitment, creating turf‐free substrata on the upper reef surfaces with up to 26 times the oyster recruitment than turf‐covered substrata.

Synthesis and applications. Our results provide proof‐of‐concept that incorporating the transplant of canopy‐forming kelp to reefs constructed to restore oysters is not only achievable, but may be imperative to successfully restore oyster reefs in turf‐dominated systems. Kelp transplants suppressed the turf algae that otherwise excluded oysters from the reef surface, effectively shifting the competitive advantage toward oyster recovery by maintaining bare substrata for oyster recruitment. By demonstrating that a multi‐species approach to restoration accelerates the recovery of a restored habitat, we emphasize the value of incorporating the multi‐species concept into restoration planning.
ELABELA improves endothelial cell function via the ELA–APJ axis by activating the PI3K/Akt signalling pathway in HUVECs and EA.hy926 cells
Authors: Wang Xiujuan , Liang Guoqing , Guo Qing , Cai Wei , Zhang Xin , Ni Jianmei , Tao Yanyan , Niu Xiulong , Chen Shaobo
Published: July 2020

Destruction of endothelial cells (ECs) function is involved in the structural and functional pathophysiological processes of preeclampsia (PE). Vascular endothelial injury may pre‐exist for several years in women that develop PE and may pose increased risks for hypertension, coronary artery disease, and type‐2 diabetes mellitus. Previous findings showed that Elabela (ELA), the endogenous ligand of the apelin (APJ) receptor expressed mainly on ECs, may play a protective role in early pregnancy and prevent PE. However, the exact functional role and molecular mechanisms of ELA are unclear. Here, we aimed to classify whether and how ELA improves EC function via the ELA–APJ axis. Two human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) lines, namely HUVECs and EA.hy926, were treated with ELA, and then their cellular activities were studied by performing CCK‐8 tests, scratch‐wound analysis, and tube‐formation assays. Doses of ELA exceeding 0.01 μmol/L markedly improved the cell viability, migration, and tube formation ability of HUVECs and EA.hy926 cells. Western blot analysis indicated that the above effects caused by ELA were related to upregulation of the APJ receptor and activation of PI3K/Akt signalling. Further verification tests were performed using the PI3K inhibitor wortmannin, and the results illustrated that inhibiting PI3K/Akt signalling blocked the positive effects of ELA on EC function and APJ receptor expression. Taken together, our findings indicate that ELA may alter EC function via the ELA–APJ axis and PI3K/Akt signalling and that ELA shows promise for use in endothelial dysfunction therapy for preventing and treating PE.
Effects of ticagrelor pretreatment on electrophysiological properties of stellate ganglion neurons following myocardial infarction
Authors: Cheng Lijun , Fu Huaying , Wang Xinghua , Ye Lan , Lakhani Ishan , Tse Gary , Zhang Zhiwei , Liu Tong , Li Guangping
Published: July 2020

Higher sympathetic activity predisposes to malignant ventricular arrhythmias in the context of myocardial infarction (MI). This is, in part, mediated by the electrical activity of the stellate ganglion (SG). The aim of this study is to examine the effects of ticagrelor pretreatment on the electrophysiological properties of SG neurons following MI in rabbits. MI was induced by isoproterenol (ISO) of 150 mg kg‐1 d‐1 (twice at an interval of 24 hours). Ticagrelor pretreatment was administered at low‐ (10 mg kg‐1 d‐1) or high‐dose (20 mg kg‐1 d‐1). Protein and RNA expression were determined by immunohistochemical analysis and real‐time PCR, respectively. The activity of sodium channel current (INa), delayed rectifier potassium current (IKDR), M‐type potassium current (IKM) as well as action potentials (APs) from SG neurons were measured by whole‐cell patch‐clamp. Intracellular calcium concentrations were measured by confocal microscopy. Compared with the control group, the MI group exhibited a greater amplitude of INa, IKDR and IKM, significantly altered activation and inactivation characteristics of INa, no significant alterations in protein or mRNA expression of sodium and M‐type potassium channels, along with higher AP amplitude and frequency and intracellular calcium concentrations. Most of these abnormalities were prevented by pretreatment with low‐ or high‐dose ticagrelor. Our data suggest that ticagrelor exerts cardioprotective effects, potentially through modulating the activity of different ion channels in SG neurons.
Toner Particles as Forensic Evidence: Microanalytical Characterization of Known Toner and Recognition of Toner in Environmental Samples*†‡
Authors: White Katie M. , Palenik Christopher S.
Published: July 2020

Modern printing toners represent a prime example of subvisible particles that can be easily transferred to hands, clothing, and other surfaces. To explore the potential evidentiary value of toner particles, toner samples were collected from known printer cartridges and characterized by various microanalytical techniques to establish the properties most useful for recognition, identification, and comparison. Environmental samples (i.e., dust) were then collected from various locations at varying distances from toner‐based printers, using both tape lifts and carbon adhesive stubs, to assess the possibility of detecting toner. By light microscopy, toner can be recognized on the basis of particle size and shape, as well as color. Further examination of the micromorphology in the field emission scanning electron microscope reveals characteristic morphologies and differences in surface texture and shape among toner sources. Raman spectroscopy provides chemical identification of the pigment (or pigment class) and, in some cases, also permits identification of the polymer component. While black and blue pigment chemistry remained constant among toner varieties that were studied (copper phthalocyanine and carbon black), variation in yellow and magenta pigments was observed. Analysis of dust samples collected from various environments demonstrated that while toner is consistently detectable in close proximity to printers (within 2 feet), it also can be detected in dust collected in nearby rooms. This research demonstrates that toner particles can be located, characterized, and discriminated, using a suite of microanalytical methods that are applicable to forensic casework.
Migration analysis, antioxidant, and mechanical characterization of polypropylene‐based active food packaging films loaded with BHA, BHT, and TBHQ
Authors: Fasihnia Seyedeh Homa , Peighambardoust Seyed Hadi , Peighambardoust Seyed Jamaleddin , Oromiehie Abdulrasoul , Soltanzadeh Maral , Peressini Donatella
Published: July 2020

Polypropylene (PP) based active composite films were prepared by adding butylated hydroxy anisole (BHA), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), and tertiary butylated hydroquinone (TBHQ) antioxidants using the extrusion molding process. All concentrations of BHT, 2% to 3% BHA, and 3% TBHQ significantly increased the tensile strength (TS) of the composite films compared with control films. Increasing antioxidant concentration decreased TS values for BHT films, whereas an opposite trend was observed for BHA and TBHQ films. BHA at < 2%, BHT at > 2%, and TBHQ at all added concentrations significantly reduced elongation at break (Eb) of the composite films compared to control films. Water vapor permeability (WVP) of 1% BHT film was not significantly different from control. However, other antioxidants especially at increased concentrations significantly increased WVP values. TBHQ films with 300% to 662% increase had the highest WVP and BHT films with 5% to 81% increase had the lowest WVP among composite films. All three antioxidants had a negative effect on the transparency of the films; however the effect of BHA at higher concentrations was greater. The antioxidants did not change the color attributes of the films. Films containing all antioxidants showed 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl radical‐scavenging activity, which increased with increase in their concentration, especially for those containing 3 wt.% BHT and TBHQ. Overall, incorporating BHA and BHT into a PP matrix improved mechanical, barrier, antioxidant properties, and film appearance and consequently were proposed for the development of antioxidant active PP films. TBHQ film is not recommended for food packaging because of its weak mechanical properties (lower Eb and TS values, higher WVP, and greater migration).
Using patterns in prey DNA digestion rates to quantify predator diets
Authors: Uiterwaal Stella F. , DeLong John P.
Published: July 2020

Dietary metabarcoding—the process of taxonomic identification of food species from DNA in consumer guts or faeces—has been rapidly adopted by ecologists to gain insights into biocontrol, invasive species and the structure of food webs. However, an outstanding issue with metabarcoding is the semi‐quantitative nature of the data it provides: because metabarcoding is likely to produce false negatives for some prey more often than for other prey, we cannot infer relative frequencies of prey in the diet. To correct for this, we can adjust detected prey frequencies using DNA detectability half‐lives unique to each predator–prey combination. Because the feeding experiments required to deduce these half‐lives are time‐ and resource‐intensive, our ability to weight the frequency of observations using their detectability has thus far been limited to systems with just a few prey. Here, we present a meta‐analysis of 24 spider prey DNA half‐lives and show that these half‐lives are predictable given predator and prey mass, predator family, digestion temperature and DNA amplicon length. We further provide a new technique for weighting observations with half‐lives, which allows not just for the ranking of prey in the diet, but reveals the proportion of the diet each prey comprises. Lastly, we apply this method to published dietary metabarcoding data to calculate half‐lives and proportion of the predator's diet for 35 prey families, demonstrating that this technique can generate improved understanding of diets in real, diverse systems.
Detection of selection signatures in Limousin cattle using whole‐genome resequencing
Authors: Mariadassou M. , Ramayo‐Caldas Y. , Charles M. , Féménia M. , Renand G. , Rocha D.
Published: July 2020

Limousin, a renowned beef breed originating from central France, has been selectively bred over the last 100 years to improve economically important traits. We used whole‐genome sequencing data from 10 unrelated Limousin bull calves to detect polymorphisms and identify regions under selection. A total of 13 943 766 variants were identified. Moreover, 311 852 bi‐allelic SNPs and 92 229 indels located on autosomes were fixed for the alternative allele in all sequenced animals, including the previously reported missense deleterious F94L mutation in MSTN. We performed a whole‐genome screen to discover genomic regions with excess homozygosity, using the pooled heterozygosity score and identified 171 different candidate selective sweeps. In total, 68 candidate genes were found in only 57 of these regions, indicating that a large fraction of the genome under selection might lie in non‐coding regions and suggesting that a majority of adaptive mutations might be regulatory in nature. Many QTL were found within candidate selective sweep regions, including QTL associated with shear force or carcass weight. Among the putative selective sweeps, we located genes (MSTN, NCKAP5, RUNX2) that potentially contribute to important phenotypes in Limousin. Several candidate regions and genes under selection were also found in previous genome‐wide selection scans performed in Limousin. In addition, we were able to pinpoint candidate causative regulatory polymorphisms in GRIK3 and RUNX2 that might have been under selection. Our results will contribute to improved understanding of the mechanisms and targets of artificial selection and will facilitate the interpretation of GWASs performed in Limousin.
Determining a strategy to reduce smoking in pregnancy
Authors: Patterson Jillian A. , Torvaldsen Siranda , Nippita Tanya A. , Ford Jane B. , Morris Jonathan M.
Published: July 2020

Background

Further efforts, informed by current data, are needed to reduce smoking during pregnancy.

Aims

To describe trends in smoking during pregnancy and identify regions most likely to benefit from targeted smoking cessation interventions, in New South Wales (NSW), Australia.

Materials and Methods

All women who gave birth in NSW between 1994 and 2016 were included. Smoking status was identified from the Perinatal Data Collection. For births between 2012 and 2016, women were grouped into Local Health District (LHD) of residence, and smoking rates calculated. The impacts of a hypothetical smoking cessation intervention in four LHDs with (i) high smoking rates and (ii) high numbers of smokers, were compared.

Results

The overall smoking rate during pregnancy decreased from 22.1% in 1994 to 8.3% in 2016. [Correction added on 13 August 2020, after first online publication: the overall smoking rate during pregnancy in 1994 has been corrected from 14.5% to 22.1%.]. The decrease was lowest among women living in the most socioeconomically disadvantaged areas (41%) and highest among those living in the most advantaged areas (83%). Between 2012 and 2016, over half the women who smoked during pregnancy lived in one of four LHDs. Only 1% of women reporting smoking during pregnancy resided in the LHD with the highest smoking rate (34.7%). A simulated intervention targeting only four regions showed greater effect on the statewide smoking rate when targeting LHDs with high numbers of smokers rather than high smoking rates.

Conclusions

Despite decreases in rates of smoking during pregnancy, there was evidence of geographic clustering of smokers. The greatest reduction in overall smoking may come from interventions targeting the four LHDs with the highest number of smokers.
Learning journeys: Five paradigms of education for development
Authors: Overton John , Stupples Polly , Murray Warwick E. , Gamlen Alan , Palomino‐Schalscha Marcela
Published: July 2020

Education is one of the key objectives of, and means for, development. Its value is widely accepted though we rarely investigate the way different theories of development inform widely differing justifications and strategies for education. This article explores some of these issues and proposes five main paradigms regarding the education‐development nexus. These we term neoliberalism, retroliberalism, neostructuralism, place‐based and radical. Each is linked to particular concepts of development, each involves certain forms of education, and each is linked to particular policy discourses. Although these are largely abstract paradigms and in practice we see more hybridised forms co‐existing, we consider implications of each paradigm for education with examples from Oceania.
Prudential Application of IFRS 9: (Un)Fair Reporting in COVID‐19 Crisis for Banks Worldwide?!
Authors: Barnoussi Aziz el , Howieson Bryan , van Beest Ferdy
Published: July 2020

IFRS 9 and ASC 326 were developed after the 2008–2009 financial crisis, and both accounting standards include an expected loss model as a means of providing for credit losses. As a result of the COVID‐19 worldwide pandemic, however, banks face considerable uncertainty about the potential scale of the bad debts for which they will need to provide. Banks need to reassess their loan assets, by updating their risk models with expectations about potential default rates and future macro‐economic and financial developments. However, we see several interventions worldwide. The European Securities and Markets Authority addresses a position paper on the prudential application of IFRS 9. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act in the US has given banks an optional deferral of implementation of the CECL model until 31 December 2020. This paper addresses the challenges banks face when applying the expected losses model during the current crisis. More importantly, it discusses the impact of supervisor and regulators’ intervention on future financial reporting comparability, transparency and whether there is a level playing field.
An integrative ethical approach to leader favoritism
Authors: Yang Inju , Horak Sven , Kakabadse Nada K.
Published: July 2020

Relationship building is one of the most important aspects of leadership; however, it can pose ethical challenges. Though particularistic treatment of employees by leaders, that is, leader favoritism, commonly occurs, it is conventionally regarded negatively as fairness norms require leaders to treat followers equally. In this conceptual study, we explore different views on leader favoritism based on different ethical principles. We develop an alternative to the conventional view and suggest that leader favoritism may not necessarily lead to negative outcomes when empathy‐based favoritism is applied. In this vein, we recommend drawing on the ethical principles of a utilitarian approach by balancing particularism and universalism, which is also helpful to build organizational social capital. We contribute to leadership theory by developing an early concept of an integrative ethical approach to leader favoritism.
Should we accept a higher cost per health improvement for orphan drugs? A review and analysis of egalitarian arguments
Authors: Juth Niklas , Henriksson Martin , Gustavsson Erik , Sandman Lars
Published: July 2020

In recent years, the issue of accepting a higher cost per health improvement for orphan drugs has been the subject of discussion in health care policy agencies and the academic literature. This article aims to provide an analysis of broadly egalitarian arguments for and against accepting higher costs per health improvement. More specifically, we aim to investigate which arguments one should agree upon putting aside and where further explorations are needed. We identify three kinds of arguments in the literature: considerations of substantial equality, formal equality, and opportunity cost. We argue that considerations of substantial equality do not support higher costs per health improvement orphan drugs, even if such considerations are considered valid. On the contrary, arguments of formal equality may support accepting a higher cost per health improvement for orphan drugs. However, in order to do so, a number of both normative and empirical issues must be resolved; these issues are identified in the article. For instance, it must be settled to what extent the opportunity cost in terms of foregone health for other patients is acceptable in order to uphold formal equality. We conclude that certain arguments can be set aside, and future focus should be put on the unresolved normative and empirical issues related to formal equality and opportunity cost.
Linking online self‐presentation to identity coherence, identity confusion, and social anxiety in emerging adulthood
Authors: Michikyan Minas
Published: July 2020

The present study examined the role of social media in psychosocial development and adjustment in emerging adulthood. Survey data from a diverse college sample of 220 emerging adults (M age ≈ 23, 175 women) were collected and analysed using a series of multiple regressions. Results revealed that emerging adults high in general identity coherence (indicative of high self‐concept clarity) reported presenting the real self and the ideal self on Facebook, suggesting that they were more truthful and positively realistic in their online self‐presentation. Emerging adults high in general identity confusion (indicative of less self‐concept clarity) reported presenting the ideal self and the false self on Facebook, suggesting that they were less truthful, less realistic, and more socially desirable in their online self‐presentation. Moreover, emerging adults who experienced both identity coherence and identity confusion reported presenting the false self on Facebook motivated by self‐exploration. Emerging adults experiencing high social anxiety reported presenting the false self on Facebook; they engaged in an extensive self‐exploratory and socially desirable online self‐presentation. Further, emerging adults experiencing both high identity confusion and high social anxiety reported presenting themselves on Facebook in a less truthful manner. Findings have important implications for identity integration during the emerging adulthood transition in the digital age.
Empathy as a buffer: How empathy moderates the emotional effects on Preschoolers’ sharing
Authors: Guo Rui , Wu Zhen
Published: July 2020

This study experimentally investigated how empathy moderated the influence of external emotional stimuli on preschoolers’ subsequent sharing behaviour. Children aged 4–6 (N = 218) were randomly presented with one of the video clips that elicited sad, happy, or neutral emotion, and were then asked to play a dictator game with puppet partners. Results revealed that compared to the neutral condition, children with higher empathy increased sharing after induced happiness but did not change sharing after induced sadness; by contrast, children with lower empathy decreased sharing after induced sadness. It appears that empathy may enhance the positive effect of happiness while reducing the negative effect of sadness on sharing behaviour. These findings provide experimental evidence in early childhood to support approaches that emphasize the role of immediate emotions in moral decision‐making; critically, such emotional effects vary with individual differences in dispositional empathy.
Trade and labour standards: Will there be a race to the bottom?
Authors: Chen Zhiqi , Dar‐Brodeur Afshan
Published: July 2020

Abstract.

We investigate whether strategic competition among developing countries for export market shares will lead to a “race‐to‐the‐bottom” (RTB) in labour standards. We consider an environment that is most conducive to an RTB, specifically in a model of strategic trade in which governments have incentives to lower the costs of their domestic firms. Our analysis shows that strategic trade considerations do not lead to an RTB. To the contrary, equilibrium labour standards involve higher levels of labour compensation than those in the absence of government intervention. Binding global trade rules that restrict export subsidies would move the labour standards closer to their efficient level.

Résumé.

Commerce et normes du travail: y aura‐t‐il un nivellement par le bas? Dans cet article, nous cherchons à savoir si, pour gagner des parts de marché à l’exportation, la compétition stratégique entre les pays en voie de développement engendrera un nivellement par le bas des normes du travail. À cette fin, nous nous appuyons sur un environnement largement propice à cette théorie, notamment dans un modèle commercial stratégique au sein duquel les gouvernements ont intérêt à baisser les coûts de leurs entreprises domestiques. Notre analyse montre que les considérations en matière de commerce stratégique n’engendrent aucun nivellement par le bas. À l’inverse, des normes du travail à l’équilibre impliquent une rémunération de la main d’œ uvre plus élevée qu’en l’absence de toute intervention gouvernementale. Le fait de contraindre les règles du commerce mondial limitant les subventions à l’exportation rapprochera les normes du travail de leur niveau d’efficacité.
Less ready for adulthood?—Turner syndrome has an impact on transition readiness
Authors: Culen Caroline , Herle Marion , Ertl Diana‐Alexandra , Fröhlich‐Reiterer Elke , Blümel Peter , Wagner Gudrun , Häusler Gabriele
Published: July 2020

Objective

Young women with Turner syndrome (TS) are known to be at risk for loss to medical follow‐up. Recent literature indicates that there are disparities regarding transition readiness between different chronic conditions. So far, studies in young women with TS investigating their transition readiness compared to youths with other chronic conditions with no or minor neurocognitive challenges have not been reported.

Methods

Patients (n = 52), 26 patients with Turner syndrome (mean age 17.24 ± 2.10) and 26 controls with type 1 diabetes or a rheumatic disease (mean age 17.41 ± 2.44), were recruited from specialized paediatric endocrine outpatient clinics. The Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire TRAQ‐GV‐15 was used to compare transition readiness scores between TS and controls. In addition, information on individual handling of the questionnaire was obtained. Descriptive statistics and nonparametric methods were used to analyse the data.

Results

Significant differences for transition readiness scores were found between the two study groups. The global TRAQ‐GV‐15 score was significantly lower for females with TS. In particular, subscale 1 ‘autonomy’ of the TRAQ‐GV‐15 showed lower scores in patients with TS. Patients with TS needed significantly more help and more time to complete the questionnaire.

Conclusion

Special attention should be given to young women with Turner syndrome in the preparation for the transitional phase. By incorporating the assessment of transition readiness specialists will find it easier to identify underdeveloped skills and knowledge gaps in their patients. Unless a multidisciplinary young adult clinic is established, an older age than 18 years at transfer to adult endocrine care might be beneficial.
Practical Product Path Guiding Using Linearly Transformed Cosines
Authors: Diolatzis Stavros , Gruson Adrien , Jakob Wenzel , Nowrouzezahrai Derek , Drettakis George
Published: July 2020

Path tracing is now the standard method used to generate realistic imagery in many domains, e.g., film, special effects, architecture etc. Path guiding has recently emerged as a powerful strategy to counter the notoriously long computation times required to render such images. We present a practical path guiding algorithm that performs product sampling, i.e., samples proportional to the product of the bidirectional scattering distribution function (BSDF) and incoming radiance. We use a spatial‐directional subdivision to represent incoming radiance, and introduce the use of Linearly Transformed Cosines (LTCs) to represent the BSDF during path guiding, thus enabling efficient product sampling. Despite the computational efficiency of LTCs, several optimizations are needed to make our method cost effective. In particular, we show how we can use vectorization, precomputation, as well as strategies to optimize multiple importance sampling and Russian roulette to improve performance. We evaluate our method on several scenes, demonstrating consistent improvement in efficiency compared to previous work, especially in scenes with significant glossy inter‐reflection.
Kaposi sarcoma misdiagnosed as granuloma annulare: A case of mistaken identity
Authors: Aghazadeh Nessa , Bridges Alina G. , Camilleri Michael J. , Peters Margot S. , Comfere Nneka I.
Published: July 2020

The microscopic features of patch stage Kaposi sarcoma (KS) and interstitial granuloma annulare (GA) may be difficult to differentiate, because both may exhibit a subtle “busy” dermis due to infiltration of spindled cells between collagen bundles. The clinical distinction is particularly challenging in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐affected individuals, as the incidence of GA appears to be greater in the HIV‐infected population. KS is the most common neoplasm in this population. Despite the significant decrease in the incidence of KS since the advent of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), KS tends to occur with late onset and indolent progression in patients with preserved immune function and minimal viral load. We present a 47‐year‐old homosexual HIV‐positive man, under virologic and immunologic control on long‐term HAART therapy, with a 5‐year history of progressive red‐brown patches and plaques on the legs, feet, hands, and trunk. Prior skin biopsy specimens were interpreted as interstitial GA. Histopathology on new skin biopsy specimens along with review specimens supported the diagnosis of plaque and patch stages of KS, respectively, supported by immunohistochemical expression of human herpes virus‐8 (HHV‐8). This case underscores the importance of maintaining a high suspicion for KS in progressive, treatment‐recalcitrant skin lesions, particularly in HIV‐infected individuals.
Distribution of cetacean species at a large scale ‐ Connecting continents with the Macaronesian archipelagos in the eastern North Atlantic
Authors: Correia Ana Mafalda , Gil Ágatha , Valente Raul Fonseca , Rosso Massimiliano , Sousa‐Pinto Isabel , Pierce Graham John
Published: July 2020

Aim

To describe distribution patterns and species richness of cetaceans along a wide geographical range using occurrence data coupled with survey effort, from poorly studied oceanic areas. Specific objectives were to compare species richness and relative abundances among sub‐regions and to describe the distribution of each species.

Location

Eastern North Atlantic.

Time period

2012–2017.

Major taxa studied

Cetacea.

Methods

Cetacean monitoring was performed by dedicated observers from cargo ships, used as platforms of opportunity, along routes between Iberian Peninsula, Macaronesia and north‐western Africa. We mapped relative abundance (encounter rates), survey effort and species richness. We examined the dependence of the number of sightings and species richness on survey effort. The area was divided into sub‐regions (according to the Exclusive Economic Zones and international waters), and relative abundances of the eight most frequently sighted species, as well as species richness, were compared among them. In addition, we describe the distribution of each species in relation to sea depth, distance to coast, latitude and longitude.

Results

A total of 1,989 sightings were logged, and 26 cetacean species were identified. Species richness and relative abundances of the eight most common species differed substantially between sub‐regions. Common and bottlenose dolphins distributed in shallow coastal waters contrasting with the oceanic distribution ofStenelladolphins. Cuvier's beaked whale and minke whale had similar distributions. Pilot and sperm whales were distributed in southern waters.

Main conclusions

A considerable amount of survey effort was needed to attain reliable estimates of species richness. In less surveyed areas, species richness and abundance are likely to be underestimated. The offshore waters presented high species richness and several hotspots of cetacean abundance. This work provides new knowledge on cetacean distribution at a large scale in the eastern North Atlantic, relevant to future conservation management.