bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The devil is in the detail: The role of threat level and intolerance of uncertainty in extinction
Authors: Morriss Jayne , Saldarini Francesco , Reekum Carien M. van
Published: November 2018

Recent evidence suggests that individual differences in intolerance of uncertainty (IU) are associated with disrupted threat extinction. However, it is unknown what maintains the learned threat association in high IU individuals: is it the experienced uncertainty during extinction or the combination of experienced uncertainty with potential threat during extinction? Here we addressed this question by running two independent experiments with uncertain auditory stimuli that varied in threat level (Experiment 1, aversive human scream (n = 30); Experiment 2, benign tone (n = 47) and mildly aversive tone (n = 49)). During the experiments, we recorded skin conductance responses and subjective ratings to the learned cues during acquisition and extinction. In experiment 1, high IU was associated with heightened skin conductance responding to the learned threat vs. safe cue during extinction. In experiment 2, high IU was associated only with larger skin conductance responding to the learned cues with threatening properties during extinction i.e. mildly aversive tone. These findings suggest that uncertainty in combination with threat, even when mild, disrupts extinction in high IU individuals. Such findings help us understand the link between IU and threat extinction, and its relevance to anxiety disorder pathology.
Legionella pneumophila translocated translation inhibitors are required for bacterial-induced host cell cycle arrest
Authors: Sol Asaf , Lipo Erion , de Jesús Dennise A. , Murphy Connor , Devereux Mildred , Isberg Ralph R.
Published: November 2018

The cell cycle machinery controls diverse cellular pathways and is tightly regulated. Misregulation of cell division plays a central role in the pathogenesis of many disease processes. Various microbial pathogens interfere with the cell cycle machinery to promote host cell colonization. Although cell cycle modulation is a common theme among pathogens, the role that this interference plays in promoting diseases is unclear. Previously we demonstrated that the G1 and G2/M phases of the host cell cycle are permissive for Legionella pneumophila replication, while S phase provides a toxic environment for bacterial replication. In this study we show that L. pneumophila avoids host S phase by blocking host DNA synthesis and preventing cell cycle progression into S phase. Cell cycle arrest upon Legionella contact is dependent on the Icm/Dot secretion system. In particular, we found that cell cycle arrest is dependent on the intact enzymatic activity of translocated substrates that inhibits host translation. Moreover, we show that early in infection, the presence of these translation inhibitors is crucial to induce the degradation of the master regulator cyclin D1. Our results demonstrate that the bacterial effectors that inhibit translation are associated with preventing entry of host cells into a phase associated with restriction of L. pneumophila. Furthermore, control of cyclin D1 may be a common strategy used by intracellular pathogens to manipulate the host cell cycle and promote bacterial replication.

Significance

Recently, we showed that host cell cycle regulatory proteins control L. pneumophila growth. In particular, bacterial replication was found to be depressed in S-phase. This indicates that bacterial control of the host cell cycle can limit exposure of the pathogen to antimicrobial events that are cycle-specific. Here we uncovered bacterial factors that induce host cell cycle arrest by inhibiting host protein synthesis and preventing S phase transition. These data are consistent with S-phase toxicity serving as an important antimicrobial response that limits growth of some intracellular pathogens. Moreover, identification of microbial factors that block cell cycle progression and uncovering host cell cycle partners are candidates for future drug development. Our data point to a unifying role of the cell cycle in multiple disease processes.
Systematic discovery of endogenous human ribonucleoprotein complexes
Authors: Mallam Anna L. , Sae-Lee Wisath , Schaub Jeffrey M. , Tu Fan , Battenhouse Anna , Jang Yu Jin , Kim Jonghwan , Wallingford John B. , Finkelstein Ilya J. , Marcotte Edward M. , Drew Kevin
Published: November 2018

RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) play essential roles in biology and are frequently associated with human disease. While recent studies have systematically identified individual RBPs, their higher order assembly intoRibonucleoprotein (RNP) complexes has not been systematically investigated. Here, we describe a proteomics method for systematic identification of RNP complexes in human cells. We identify 1,428 protein complexes that associate with RNA, indicating that over 20% of known human protein complexes contain RNA. To explore the role of RNA in the assembly of each complex, we identify complexes that dissociate, change composition, or form stable protein-only complexes in the absence of RNA. Importantly, these data also provide specific novel insights into the function of well-studied protein complexes not previously known to associate with RNA, including replication factor C (RFC) and cytokinetic centralspindlin complex. Finally, we use our method to systematically identify cell-type specific RNA-associated proteins in mouse embryonic stem cells. We distribute these data as a resource, rna.MAP (rna.proteincomplexes.org) which provides a comprehensive dataset for the study of RNA-associated protein complexes. Our system thus provides a novel methodology for further explorations across human tissues and disease states, as well as throughout all domains of life.

An exploration of human protein complexes in the presence and absence of RNA reveals endogenous ribonucleoprotein complexes
Endogenous oxytocin release in periaqueductal gray eases inflammatory pain through long term suppression of pain perception neurons in the spinal cord
Authors: Iwasaki M. , Charlet A.
Published: November 2018

Research has shown that oxytocin (OT) injection to periaqueductal gray (PAG) eases pain. We hypothesized that OT in PAG may eventually suppress the activity of pain perception neurons inside the spinal cord (SC), then block further aversion signals to the brain. Here, we confirmed that PAG receives OT-ergic axons from the paraventricular nucleus in rats. In PAG, optogenetically triggered axonal OT release evoked excitation in some neurons, and inhibition in others. Of these OT-excited neurons, active neurons alternated between one and the other as time passed, but the number of active neurons at each moment was continuously maintained at the same level at least for 300 s after laser beam stimulation. Further, OT release in PAG reduced pain-induced activity of SC neurons, whose effect reached maximum levels at approximately 220 s after the laser beam stimulation. Interestingly, in rats presented with pain but where OT release was not evoked, a similar time course of SC activity reduction was observed, but the magnitude of reduction was minor. Lastly, OT release in PAG raised the threshold of mechanical pain but not heat pain in inflammation model animals.
Relating evolutionary selection and mutant clonal dynamics in normal epithelia
Authors: Hall Michael W J , Jones Philip H , Hall Benjamin A
Published: November 2018

Cancer develops from mutated cells in normal tissues. Whether somatic mutations alter normal cell dynamics is key to understanding cancer risk and guiding interventions to reduce it. An analysis of the first incomplete moment of size distributions of clones carrying cancer-associated mutations in normal human eyelid skin gives a good fit with neutral drift, arguing mutations do not affect cell fate. However, this suggestion conflicts with genetic evidence in the same dataset that argues for strong positive selection of a subset of mutations. This implies cells carrying these mutations have a competitive advantage over normal cells, leading to large clonal expansions within the tissue. In normal epithelium, clone growth is constrained by the limited size of the proliferating compartment and competition with surrounding cells. We show that if these factors are taken into account, the first incomplete moment of the clone size distribution is unable to exclude non-neutral behavior. Furthermore, experimental factors can make a non-neutral clone size distribution appear neutral. We validate these principles with a new experimental data set showing that when experiments are appropriately designed, the first incomplete moment can be a useful indicator of non-neutral competition. Finally, we discuss the complex relationship between mutant clone sizes and genetic selection.

Significance Statement

Aging normal epithelial tissues are extensively colonized by clones carrying cancer associated mutations. Insight into the emergence of mutant clones is key to guide cancer prevention. However, the statistical evidence as to whether mutant clones emerge by neutral competition or due to a competitive advantage conferred by mutation is conflicted. We reconcile this apparent contradiction by demonstrating that the previously presented metrics for measuring neutrality from clone sizes are dependent on the spatial constraints imposed by the tissue structure and experimental design. Furthermore, we show that clonal competition within a recently reported dataset of healthy human esophageal tissue is non-neutral. Finally, we discuss how discrepancies between measures of clone size and genetic selection can provide insight into early carcinogenesis.
Human sperm chromatin forms spatially restricted nucleosome domains consistent with programmed nucleosome positioning
Authors: Zhang Mei-Zi , Cao Xiao-Min , Xu Feng-Qin , Liang Xiao-Wei , Fu Long-Long , Sun Fang-Zhen , Huang Xiu-Ying , Huang Wei-Hong
Published: November 2018

In human sperm, a fraction of its chromatin retains nucleosomes that are positioned on specific sequences containing genes and regulatory units essential for embryonic development. This nucleosome positioning (NP) feature provides an inherited epigenetic mark for sperm. However, it is not known whether there is a structural constraint for these nucleosomes and, if so, how they are localized in a three-dimensional (3D) context of the sperm nucleus. In this study, we examine the 3D organization of sperm chromatin and specifically determine its 3D localization of nucleosomes using structured illumination microscopy. A fraction of the sperm chromatin form nucleosome domains (NDs), visible as microscopic puncta ranging from 40 μm to 700 μm in diameter, and these NDs are precisely localized in the postacrosome region (PAR), outside the sperm’s core chromatin. Further, NDs exist mainly in sperm from fertile men in a pilot survey with a small sample size. Together, this study uncovers a new spatially restricted sub-nuclear structure containing NDs that are consistent with NPs of the sperm, which might represent a novel mark for healthy sperm in human.
Non-cell-autonomous promotion of pluripotency induction mediated by YAP
Authors: Hartman Amaleah , Hu Xiao , Chen Xinyue , Eastman Anna E. , Yang Cindy , Guo Shangqin
Published: November 2018

While Yes-associated protein (YAP) antagonizes pluripotency during early embryogenesis, it has also been shown to promote stemness of multiple stem cell types, including pluripotent stem cells. Whether cellular context underlies these distinct functions of YAP in pluripotency remains unclear. Here, we establish that depending on the specific cells in which it is expressed, YAP exhibits opposing effects on pluripotency induction from somatic cells. Specifically, YAP inhibits pluripotency induction cell-autonomously but promotes it non-cell-autonomously. For its non-cell-autonomous role, YAP alters the expression of many secreted and matricellular proteins including CYR61, which recapitulates the promotional effect when added as a recombinant protein. Thus, we define a unique YAP-driven non-cell-autonomous process that enhances pluripotency induction. Our work highlights the importance of considering the distinct contributions from heterologous cell types in deciphering the mechanism of cell fate control and calls for careful re-examination of the co-existing bystander cells in complex cultures or tissues.
Exploring e-Loyalty Antecedents in B2C e-Commerce
Authors: Faraoni Monica , Rialti Riccardo , Zollo Lamberto , Pellicelli Anna Claudia
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the micro-linkages fostering consumers’ e-loyalty in grocery retailers B2C e-commerce context. Specifically, the authors focused on the neglected role of security, privacy and website design. Grocery retailing has been selected as the context of research because grocery retailers too have been required to develop B2C e-commerce platforms to meet their consumers’ evolving preferences.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was distributed to several students from University of Florence (Italy). Structural equation modeling was used to compile the research, and its results reflect the impact on e-loyalty development on specific features of the e-commerce environment.

Findings

The main findings of this research are related with the importance of website characteristics as antecedents of e-loyalty in online grocery retailing.

Originality/value

Albeit the explored phenomenon has been subject to extensive study, some of its facets are yet to be fully explored. In particular, though the influence of e-trust, e-satisfaction and e-commitment on e-loyalty has been shown, little attention has been paid to the factors affecting these three antecedents of e-loyalty. In this regard, this research focuses on the importance of B2C e-commerce platform characteristics such as security, perceived relationship investment and website design. In addition, the phenomenon was scarcely explored in grocery retailers B2C e-commerce context.
A roadmap for (un)successful BPM: positivist case studies
Authors: Van Looy Amy , Devos Jan
Published: November 2018

Purpose

While much research exists on methods and tools to support business processes, little research exists on the interrelationship with cultural and structural aspects. The purpose of this paper is to explore the chronological sequence in which culture and structure are important, as evidenced in 13 non-profit organisations that are changing towards a process-oriented way of working.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use a positivist case study methodology with pattern-matching to falsify or confirm three theoretical perspectives that claim to explain the phenomena of organisational structure and culture, and their impact on business processes. The competing perspectives are: process lifecycle theories, organisational design theories and cultural and motivational theories.

Findings

The case studies cover six scenarios based on a recurrent sequence of changes and perceived outcome. The (theoretical and empirical) relationships between business processes, a process-oriented culture and a process-oriented structure are then combined in a process capability success model.

Research limitations/implications

Although limited to the non-profit sector, the findings agree that the process lifecycle is insufficient. Cultural and motivational theories prevail over organisational design theories to explain and predict process success.

Practical implications

From the process capability success model, a roadmap for (un)successful business process management (BPM) is derived with best practices and advice on the sequence of process improvements.

Originality/value

While the relevance of culture and structure has been touched in research before, the aspect of chronological sequence and pattern-matching sheds new light on the topic. The case studies performed also help to evidence how important it is to believe in process-oriented developments for organisations that want to apply BPM.
Fault location using mathematical analysis and database approach
Authors: Gururajapathy Sophi Shilpa , Mokhlis Hazlie , Illias Hazlee Azil
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify faults in distribution systems which are unavoidable because of adverse weather conditions and unexpected accidents. Hence, quick fault location is vital for continuous power supply. However, most fault location methods depend on the stored database for locating fault. The database is created by simulation, which is time consuming. Therefore, in this work, a comprehensive fault location method to detect faulty section and fault distance from one-ended bus using limited simulated data is proposed.

Design/methodology/approach

The work uses voltage sag data measured at a primary substation. Support vector machine estimates the data which are not simulated. The possible faulty section is determined using matching approach and fault distance using mathematical analysis.

Findings

This work proposed a ranking analysis for multiple possible faulty sections, and the fault distance is calculated using Euclidean distance approach.

Practical implications

The research work uses Malaysian distribution system as it represents a practical distribution system with multiple branches and limited measurement at primary substation. The work requires only metering devices to identify fault which is cost effective. In addition, the distribution system is simulated using real-time PSCAD by which the capability of proposed method can be fully tested.

Originality/value

The paper presents a new method for fault analysis. It reduces simulation time and storage space of database. The work identifies faulty section and ranks the prior faulty section. It also identifies fault distance using a mathematical approach.
Study on properties of decolorizing yakwool fiber and spun yarn
Authors: Xiaoxuan Qin , Liang Hui’e , Su Xuzhong , Liu Xinjin
Published: November 2018

Purpose

As a natural fiber, yakwool has attracted much attention in textile processing due to its excellent properties and wearabilities. However, the main colors of yakwool are black and brown. Therefore, for extending the application scopes of the fiber, the decolorization of the yakwool fiber is usually needed, especially for the black fiber. The paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

In the paper, the properties of the yakwool fiber were tested first, especially the melanin granules in the fiber. Then, the decolorization of the yakwool fiber was studied using the oxidation–reduction decolorization method, and corresponding optimal process of the decolorization was given. Then, the properties of the decolorized yakwool fiber were tested and compared with those of the original fiber.

Findings

It is shown that, after decolorization, the physical and mechanical properties of the fiber were deteriorated, especially in terms of the strength and elongation. Therefore, the fiber became shorter and thinner, and the scales were damaged. When compared with the yarn spun from the original yakwool fiber, it was observed that the properties of the yarn spun from the decolorized yakwool fiber deteriorated because of the deterioration in the properties of the original fiber.

Originality/value

In the paper, for extending the application scopes of the yakwool fiber, the decolorization of the yakwool fiber was studied.
Automatic seam pucker evaluation using support vector machine classifiers
Authors: Zhang Ning , Pan Ruru , Wang Lei , Wang Shanshan , Xiang Jun , Gao Weidong
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a novel method using support vector machine (SVM) classifiers for objective seam pucker evaluation. Features are extracted using wavelet analysis and gray-level co-occurrence matrix (GLCM), and the samples are evaluated using SVM classifiers. The study aims to solve the problem of inappropriate parameters and large required samples in objective seam pucker evaluation.

Design/methodology/approach

Initially, seam pucker image was captured, and Edge detection and Hough transform were utilized to normalize the seam position and orientation. After cropping the image, the intensity was adjusted to the same identical level through histogram specification. Then, the standard deviations of the horizontal image and diagonal image, reconstructed using wavelet decomposition and reconstruction, were calculated based on parameter optimization. Meanwhile, GLCM was extracted from the restructured horizontal detail image, then the contrast and correlation of GLCM were calculated. Finally, these four features were imported to SVM classifiers based on genetic algorithm for evaluation.

Findings

The four extracted features reflected linear relationships among five grades. The experimental results showed that the classification accuracy was 96 percent, which catches up to the performance of human vision, and resolves ambiguity and subjective of the manual evaluation.

Originality/value

There are large required samples in current research. This paper provides a novel method using finite samples, and the parameters of the methods were discussed for parameter optimization. The evaluation results can provide references for analyzing the reason of wrinkles during garment manufacturing.
Supply chain information governance: toward a conceptual framework
Authors: In Joonhwan , Bradley Randy , Bichescu Bogdan C. , Autry Chad W.
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a scalable conceptual framework for governance of supply chain (SC) information flows by re-contextualizing the organizational concept of information governance as an SC concept.

Design/methodology/approach

This study leverages the strategy-structure-process-performance (SSPP) theory base to explain how effective SC information governance relates to improved internal SC performance. Via an in-depth literature review followed by conceptual theory building, the key features of organizational-level information governance are cast into a theoretical framework.

Findings

This study presents the theoretical framework that explains how SC information governance should contribute to improved internal SC performance. The proposed framework provides a theoretical basis for future research on SC information governance and would become a useful first step to extend the concept of SC information governance at the SC level.

Practical implications

SC managers should be aware that information governance mechanisms, rather than the management of basic, information flow-directed processes, to yield the best performance outcomes. Because of the numerous touch points information has in complex SCs, managing the quality of SC information through broader, higher-level governance standards is more important than maximizing connectivity and information flows, and information governance structures/policies across organizations should be designed accordingly.

Originality/value

This study theoretically links SC information governance and internal SC performance via information quality. It also advances the understanding of SC information flow by challenging the implicit but flawed assumption that uniformity of information quality within the supply chain to create the best outcomes.
Influence of corporate social responsibility on non-financial performance
Authors: Nyarku Kwamena Minta , Ayekple Seth
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Using a multinational corporation (MNC), Nestlé Ghana Limited (NGL) that operates in a developing economy (Ghana) as a case study, this paper aims to examine the influence of customers’ CSR awareness level and their perception of NGL’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) motives on the firm’s non-financial performance (image and reputation).

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative approach, using questionnaires and simple random sampling method, was used to survey 300 customers. Structural equation model-partial least square (SEM-PLS) was used to analyse the data.

Findings

The results show that customers’ CSR awareness levels have a positive impact on NGL’s image and reputation. In contrast, the study revealed that customers’ perception of NGL’s CSR motives has a negative impact on NGL’s image and reputation.

Practical implications

NGL should maintain a balance between customers’ perception of its CSR motives and its image and reputation to project the firm’s CSR position as posted in the firm’s create shared value report.

Originality/value

The study is one of the few studies in sub-Saharan Africa, and especially in Ghana, about how an MNC’s CSR engagements influence its image and reputation in a developing economy context. It further makes a contribution to CSR literature in Ghana.
Developing a framework for assessing sustainable banking performance of the Indian banking sector
Authors: Kumar Kishore , Prakash Ajai
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Sustainable development has now been recognised as the pivot around which development activities should revolve. Banking is an important component in the same and adoption of sustainable banking practices by various banking institutions is a strong driver to achieve sustainable development. The purpose of this paper is to study the level of adoption of sustainable banking tools and the extent to which banking institutions practice the same in India. In addition, the banking institutions have been ranked and categorised on basis of their sustainable banking performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed framework focuses on the environmental and social conduct of the banks, who address the issues of sustainability in Indian banking sector. As there is a difference in the economic standards of developed and developing countries, the review of literature helps to figure out the gap in specific frameworks for assessing sustainable banking practices in developing countries. Previous researchers have made an attempt to develop a general framework for assessing the sustainable banking efforts of the banking sector. These studies fall short of indicators on the social dimension of sustainability specifically in the context of less developed countries like India, the social dimensions are is equally a major thrust area along with environmental indicators. Content analysis technique has been used to evaluate sustainable banking performance of the banks and Mann–Whitney U test used to determine the differences in sustainable banking performance of the banks in India.

Findings

In Indian banking sector, the adoption of the international sustainability code of conduct is still in its nascent stage. The research indicates that sustainability issues which are of the highest priority for the banks are directly related to their business operations such as financial inclusion, financial literacy and energy efficiency, and banks are more focussed on addressing social dimension of sustainability in banking rather than important dimensions of sustainable banking, namely, environmental management, development of green products and services and sustainability reporting.

Practical implications

The application of the proposed framework reflects the status quo of sustainable banking in India. This study is useful for the banks and all the stakeholders in understanding more about the shortcomings in integrating sustainability issues in banking. Further, the present study also redresses the extant research dearth in the field of sustainable banking in the Indian context.

Originality/value

This is one of the first studies evaluating the sustainable banking performance of the Indian banking sector.
Office space: a leadership challenge
Authors: Swain Jordon , Tuite James , Borland John
Published: November 2018

Synopsis

The case describes the dilemma a young leader, First Lieutenant Toomey, faces after arriving at a new organization. Toomey’s subordinate (sergeant first class Rodgers) is more experienced and accomplished and has enjoyed a degree of autonomy under Toomey’s predecessor. Rodger’s demeanor and the physical setup of the joint office space speak to a dysfunctional dynamic in an organization that values a traditional hierarchy and relatively high power distance between supervisor and subordinate. The potential for conflict exists as Toomey contemplates how to address the dysfunctional norms he has observed while maintaining a functional relationship and reputation as an effective leader in his new unit.

Research methodology

The case was created via an interview of the protagonist.

Relevant courses and levels

This case is designed for use in undergraduate and graduate level courses on leadership and management. The case is useful for teaching lessons (or electives) on power, influence, conflict management, culture and leading change.
The unmaking of Video Symphony: personal ethics, business decisions, and management practices
Authors: Rapier Stephen M. , Shanahan Doreen E. , Dodd Nancy E. , Baker Jeffrey R.
Published: November 2018

Synopsis

In the 1990s, Mike Flanagan foresaw video moving from analog to digital and developed an equipment rental business to meet the needs of the entertainment/media production industry. By 1996 he established a second company to offer training in the use of Avid, a digital video-editing program. Flanagan sold the rental business in 1998 and by 2002 expanded the training away from a business model to a full-fledged college business model. By 2014 what started as a successful training program developed into a negative interaction with the US Department of Education and Flanagan found himself being forced out of business.

Research methodology

This case was originally a client-based project conducted real time in an MBA-level marketing course at the Graziadio School of Business and Management at Pepperdine University.

Relevant courses and levels

The case is well suited for a variety of business and law courses that integrate ethical decision making in their curriculum at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The case allows for a greater understanding of the implications of managerial behavior tied to ethical beliefs and the possible outcomes that may result. It also allows for a stronger grasp of the integral nature of management, staff, consumers and outside organizations on the pervasive impact of non-ethical behavior. Last, this case creates a framework for students to assess how ethics influence managerial behavior that will affect an organization’s success.

Theoretical bases

What ethical duties and obligations does a business owe to its customers and other stakeholders? Is ignorance an excuse for failing to meet those ethical obligations?
Development of a multi-level learning framework
Authors: Morland Kate V. , Breslin Dermot , Stevenson Fionn
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to examine multiple learning cycles across a UK housebuilder organization following changes made to their quality management routine at the organizational level, through to subsequent understanding and enactment at the level of the individuals involved.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a qualitative case study methodology based on an analysis of six-weeks of participant observation, semi-structured ethnographic interviews and documentation within three of the organization’s regional offices. Through an abductive process, it draws on gathered data and extant literature to develop a multi-level learning model.

Findings

Four levels of learning cycles are observed within the model: individual, team (within which inter-organizational relationships nest), region and organization. Three inter-related factors are identified as influencing feed-forward and feedback across the levels: time, communication and trust. The impact of these levels and factors on the process of learning is conceptualized through the metaphor of coupling and decoupling and discussed using examples from housing development projects.

Originality/value

While previous models of organizational learning highlight important multi-level interaction effects, they do not explore how the different levels of learning synchronize over time for learning to move between them. This paper addresses this gap by shedding important light on how layers of learning synchronize and why and when this can occur within multi-level organizations.
Rejecting, reframing, and reintroducing: trans people's strategic engagement with the medicalisation of gender dysphoria
Authors: Johnson Austin H.
Published: November 2018

This article uses ethnographic methods to explore how transgender people engage the medicalisation of transgender experience in a U.S. context under the purview of the American Psychiatric Association. Building on sociological literature related to medicalisation, this paper argues that the lived experience of medicalisation is a non‐linear, complex process whereby individual engagement with medical authority is both empowering and constraining in the lives of trans people. Inductive qualitative analysis of 158 hours of participant observation and 33 in‐depth interviews with members of a transgender community organisation revealed that transgender individuals (i) reject a medical frame for gender dysphoria, (ii) embrace and stress the importance of gender‐affirming medical technologies for individual identity development and social interaction and (iii) strategically reintroduce medical logics and embrace medical authority in order to facilitate medical and social recognition, validation and acceptance.
The discreet charm of the children of the bourgeoisie: economic capital and its symbolic expressions at an elite business school
Authors: Jarness Vegard , Pedersen Willy , Flemmen Magne Paalgard
Published: November 2018

We address a largely neglected issue in contemporary research on cultural class divisions: economic capital and its associated lifestyles and symbolic expressions. Using qualitative interviews, we explore how adolescents from wealthy elite backgrounds, namely students at Oslo Commerce School (OCS), traditionally one of the most prestigious upper‐secondary schools in Norway, demarcate themselves symbolically from others. They draw symbolic boundaries against students at other elite schools in Oslo, more characterized by backgrounds with high cultural capital, accusing them of mimicking a ‘hipster’ style. Within the OCS student body, we describe identity work centring on styles of material consumption and bodily distinctions. The most salient dividing line is between those who manage to master a ‘natural’ style, where expensive clothes and the desired bodily attributes are displayed discreetly, and those who are ‘trying too hard’ and thus marked by the stigma of effort. We also show some interesting intersections between class and gender: girls aspiring to the economic elite obey the ‘rules of the game’ by exercising extensive control over their bodies and adhering to demanding bodily norms for their weight and slimness. Such rules are less evident among the boys, where a lack of discipline, unruliness, hard partying and even fighting constitute parts of the lifestyle valued. This article contributes to the field of cultural stratification, highlighting the importance of the ‘hows’ of material consumption when expressing elite distinction. It also adds new insight to the research field of elite education by showing how a mastery of ‘high‐end’ consumer culture is involved in fostering favourable dispositions at elite schools.
Association of chorioamnionitis and its duration with adverse maternal outcomes by mode of delivery: a cohort study
Authors: Venkatesh KK , Glover AV , Vladutiu CJ , Stamilio DM
Published: November 2018

Objective

To investigate the association of chorioamnionitis and its duration with adverse maternal outcomes by mode of delivery.

Design

A retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Data from the Consortium on Safe Labor Study in the USA (2002–2008).

Population

Singleton deliveries at ≥23 weeks of gestation (221 274 assessed deliveries, 62 331 by caesarean section).

Methods

The association of chorioamnionitis, and secondarily the duration of chorioamnionitis estimated from intrapartum antibiotic use, with adverse maternal outcomes was analysed using logistic regression with generalised estimating equations, adjusting for age, parity, race, pregestational diabetes, chronic hypertension, gestational age at delivery, study site and delivery year. Analyses were stratified by vaginal versus caesarean delivery.

Main outcome measures

The composite adverse maternal outcome included: postpartum transfusion, endometritis, wound/perineal infection/separation, venous thromboembolism, hysterectomy, admission to intensive care unit and/or death.

Results

Chorioamnionitis was associated with higher odds of the composite adverse maternal outcome with caesarean delivery (adjusted odds ratio 2.31; 95% CI 1.97–2.71); and the association persisted regardless of whether a woman had a trial of labour, preterm delivery or maternal group B streptococcus colonisation. The most common adverse outcomes after caesarean section were postpartum transfusion (56.0%) and wound/perineal infection or endometritis (38.6%). Chorioamnionitis was not associated with adverse maternal outcomes after vaginal delivery. The duration of chorioamnionitis as the exposure did not alter the association between chorioamnionitis and adverse maternal outcomes.

Conclusions

Chorioamnionitis, but not the estimated duration, was associated with increased odds of adverse maternal outcomes with caesarean delivery. This finding has implications for care programmes to prevent maternal morbidity after a caesarean section complicated by chorioamnionitis.

Tweetable abstract

Chorioamnionitis, but not its duration, increases the risk of adverse maternal outcomes with caesarean delivery.
Entering the men's domain? Gender and portfolio allocation in European governments
Authors: GODDARD DEE
Published: November 2018

While all government portfolios used to be the purview of men exclusively, more and more women are selected to sit around the cabinet table. But under which circumstances do women get appointed to different ministerial portfolios? This article, proposes a theoretical framework to consider how party leaders’ attitudes and motivations influence the allocation of portfolios to male and female ministers. These propositions are tested empirically by bringing together data on 7,005 cabinet appointments across 29 European countries from the late 1980s until 2014. Considering the key partisan dynamics of the ministerial selection process, it is found that women are significantly less likely to be appointed to the ‘core’ offices of state, and ‘masculine’ and ‘neutral’ policy areas. However, these gender differences are moderated by the ideology of the party that allocates them. Women are more likely to be appointed to ‘masculine’ portfolios when a party's voters have more progressive gender attitudes. This theoretical framework and analysis enhances our understanding of women's access to the government, which has important implications for how ministers are selected, as well as how women are represented in the most powerful policy‐making positions in Europe.
Circular incision and cutting, a novel treatment for patients with esophageal cancer with anastomotic stricture after esophagectomy
Authors: Jie Meng Meng , Hu Chang Jiang , Tang Bo , Xie Xia , Lin Hui , Yu Jing , Yang Shi Ming
Published: November 2018

Objective

Endoscopic balloon dilation (EBD) is still considered the standard treatment for patients with anastomotic strictures after esophagectomy. However, repeated dilation sessions are often required to maintain the lumen patency. We therefore developed a novel method called circular incision and cutting (CIC) and compared the efficacy of CIC and EBD among patients with anastomotic strictures after esophagectomy or gastrectomy.

Methods

In this retrospective study, 71 consecutive patients with esophageal cancer with anastomotic strictures after esophagectomy or gastrectomy between January 2011 and December 2016 were included. Among them, 22 patients received CIC therapy and 49 were treated with EBD.

Results

The dysphagia in all patients immediately ameliorated and no serious adverse events requiring further intervention were observed after CIC therapy. Compared with EBD, CIC exhibited a greater score in the difference of dysphagia before and after treatment (1.73 vs 1.16, P = 0.03). Moreover, the interval of restenosis and 6‐month lumen patency in CIC had a better effect than that in EBD (88.07 days vs 62.76 days, P = 0.001; dysphagia score 0.63 vs 1.44, P = 0.007).

Conclusion

The CIC method may be an effective and safe option for patients with esophageal cancer with anastomotic strictures after esophagectomy.
Recombined humanized endostatin‐induced suppression of HMGB1 expression inhibits proliferation of NSCLC cancer cells
Authors: Meng Fan‐Jie , Wang Shuo , Yan Yi‐Jie , Wang Chun‐Yang , Guan Zhi‐Yu , Zhang Jun
Published: November 2018

Background

Recombined humanized endostatin (Rh‐endostatin) exhibits a potent anti‐cancer effect involving multiple molecular targets and signaling pathways. HMGB1 is a highly conserved DNA‐binding protein involved in cancer development. The therapeutic effect of Rh‐endostatin on HMGB1 has not been reported, thus we investigate the effect in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells.

Methods

Quantitative real‐time PCR and Western blot were used to analyze the messenger RNA and protein expression of HMGB1 in A549 cancer cells, while enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay was used to detect the release of HMGB1. Western blot was performed to evaluate HMGB1 expression in SK‐MES‐1 and H661 NSCLC cells.

Results

Rh‐endostatin inhibited the proliferation of A549 cancer cells and distinctly downregulated the expression and release of HMGB1 in dose and time dependent manners. Rh‐endostatin‐induced HMGB1 downregulation was confirmed in different types of NSCLC cells.

Conclusion

These results demonstrate the general phenomenon that Rh‐endostatin can induce HMGB1 suppression in a variety of NSCLC cells. Rh‐endostatin may suppress HMGB1 expression and release in A549 cancer cells, thus inhibiting cell proliferation.
The South Region Cancer Registry: an evaluation of its exhaustiveness in a cohort of lung cancer patients
Authors: Verdasca Jessica , Costa Filipa A. , Ramos Catarina , Murteira Rodrigo , Miranda Ana
Published: November 2018

The regional cancer registry for Southern Portugal (ROR‐Sul) is a population‐based registry set up in 1988 to observe and monitor disease incidence, prevalence and survival. Recently, the need to monitor real‐life use of early approved and high‐priced medicines led to therapeutic effectiveness becoming an emerging area of interest. We aimed to evaluate the exhaustiveness of the ROR‐Sul database, covering around 4.8 million inhabitants. We have used a retrospective cohort study comprising 3457 lung cancer cases diagnosed during 2014 and 2015 and extracted from ROR‐Sul database. Descriptive analysis of missing data was undertaken using IBM SPSS software, v.24. Exhaustiveness of data registry was classified into high (missing values <1%), medium (missing values {1–15%}) or low (missing values > 15%). High exhaustiveness was found for patients demographic information, date of diagnosis, date of first medical appointment, topography, morphology, cancer differentiation, stage of disease and surgery procedure. Medium exhaustiveness was found for biomarkers (ALK, KRAS, and EGFR) results, and immunotherapy regimens. Low exhaustiveness was found for performance status, chemotherapy regimen, and chemotherapy treatment response. The findings highlight the need to transform treatment variables into compulsory, so that the cancer registry may be used to support effectiveness studies. Education, training and behaviour changes must also be considered to foster the process.
Epidemiology of lung cancer in China
Authors: Cao Maomao , Chen Wanqing
Published: November 2018

The incidence and mortality rates of lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer death in China, have significantly increased in recent years, and present geographic and gender differences as a result of diversity in lifestyles and socioeconomic development. A series of attribute risk analyses have shown that factors such as smoking, air pollution, and occupational factors are all related to lung cancer. Behavioral intervention, such as smoking cessation and screening, could effectively reduce lung cancer incidence and mortality.
Solitary colorectal liver metastasis after curative intent surgery: prognostic factors affecting outcomes and survival
Authors: Shin Heeji , Kim Chan Wook , Lee Jong Lyul , Yoon Yong Sik , Park In Ja , Lim Seok‐Byung , Yu Chang Sik , Kim Jin Cheon
Published: November 2018

Background

The aim of this study was to identify the prognostic factors affecting recurrence and survival in patients who underwent curative intent surgery for colorectal cancer (CRC) with a single liver metastasis.

Methods

Between January 2006 and August 2012, we retrospectively evaluated 141 patients for CRC with single liver metastasis underwent curative intent surgery for colon and liver simultaneously. Some patients (11.3%) had radiofrequency ablation as an option.

Results

The 5‐year disease‐free and overall survival (OS) rates were 38.9% and 59.6%, respectively. Recurrence occurred in 77 (54.6%) patients after surgery. Multivariate analysis identified node positivity and no adjuvant chemotherapy as independent risk factors for OS. We analyzed the OS risk factors in 76 recurred patients from the time of recurrence. Multivariate analysis revealed the following significant risk factors for OS after recurrence: a high serum carcinoembryonic antigen concentration at the time of recurrence, the treatment type after recurrence (chemotherapy or no treatment) and a left hepatic metastasis.

Conclusion

Patients who underwent a curative resection for CRC with a single liver metastasis had a relatively favourable prognosis; in these patients, node positivity and no adjuvant chemotherapy were independent prognostic factors for OS. Furthermore, a high serum carcinoembryonic antigen concentration at the time of recurrence, the treatment type after recurrence (chemotherapy or no treatment) and a left hepatic metastasis may be independent prognostic factors for OS in patients with recurrence. The left hepatic metastasis group tended to have a multiple hepatic relapse more frequently than the right hepatic metastasis group in cases of isolated hepatic relapse.
Real world usability analysis of two augmented reality headsets in visceral surgery
Authors: Moosburner Simon , Remde Christopher , Tang Peter , Queisner Moritz , Haep Nils , Pratschke Johann , Sauer Igor M.
Published: November 2018

Recent developments in the field of augmented reality (AR) have enabled new use cases in surgery. Initial set‐up of an appropriate infrastructure for maintaining an AR surgical workflow requires investment in appropriate hardware. We compared the usability of the Microsoft HoloLens and Meta 2 head mounted displays (HMDs). Fifteen medicine students tested each device and were questioned with a variant of the System Usability Scale (SUS). Two surgeons independently tested the devices in an intraoperative setting. In our adapted SUS, ergonomics, ease of use, and visual clarity of the display did not differ significantly between HMD groups. The field of view (FOV) was smaller in the Microsoft HoloLens than the Meta 2 and significantly more study subjects (80% vs. 13.3%; P < 0.001) felt limited through the FOV. Intraoperatively, decreased mobility due to the necessity of an AC adapter and additional computing device for the Meta 2 proved to be limiting. Object stability was rated superior in the Microsoft HoloLens than the Meta 2 by our surgeons and lead to increased use. In summary, after examination of the Meta 2 and the Microsoft HoloLens, we found key advantages in the Microsoft HoloLens which provided palpable benefits in a surgical setting.