bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulation of islet function and gene expression by prolactin during pregnancy
Authors: Shrivastava Vipul , Lee Megan , Pretorius Marle , Makkar Guneet , Huang Carol
Published: November 2019

Pancreatic islets adapt to insulin resistance of pregnancy by up regulating β-cell proliferation and increase insulin secretion. Previously, we found that prolactin receptor (Prlr) signaling is important for this process, as heterozygous prolactin receptor-null (Prlr+/−) mice are glucose intolerant, had a lower number of β cells and lower serum insulin levels than wild type mice during pregnancy. However, since Prlr expression is ubiquitous, to determine its β-cell specific effects, we generated a transgenic mouse with a floxed Prlr allele under the control of an inducible promoter, allowing conditional deletion of Prlr from β cells in adult mice. In this study, we found that β-cell-specific Prlr reduction resulted in elevated blood glucose during pregnancy. Similar to our previous finding in mouse with global Prlr reduction, β-cell-specific Prlr loss led to a lower β-cell mass and a lower in vivo insulin level during pregnancy. However, these islets do not have an intrinsic insulin secretion defect when tested in vitro. Interestingly, when we compared the islet gene expression profile, using islets isolated from mice with global versus β-cell-specific Prlr reduction, we found some important differences in genes that regulate apoptosis and insulin secretion. This suggests that Prlr has both cell-autonomous and non-cell-autonomous effect on β cells, beyond its regulation of pro-proliferative genes.
Cellular crowding guides and debundles the microtubule cytoskeleton
Authors: Płochocka A. Z. , Bulgakova N. A. , Chumakova L.
Published: November 2019

Cytoplasm is densely packed with macromolecules causing cellular crowding, which alters interactions inside cells and differs between biological systems. Here we investigate the impact of crowding on microtubule cytoskeleton organization. Using mathematical modelling, we find that only anisotropic crowding affects the mean microtubule direction, but any crowding reduces the number of microtubules that form bundles. We validate these predictions in vivo using Drosophila follicular epithelium. Since cellular components are transported along microtubules, our results identify cellular crowding as a novel regulator of this transport and cell organization.
HIV Envelope Trimer-Elicited Autologous Neutralizing Antibodies Bind a Region Overlapping the N332 Glycan Supersite
Authors: Nogal Bartek , McCoy Laura E. , van Gils Marit J. , Cottrell Christopher A. , Voss James E. , Andrabi Raiees , Pauthner Matthias , Liang Chi-Hui , Messmer Terrence , Nedellec Rebecca , Shin Mia , Turner Hannah L. , Ozorowski Gabriel , Sanders Rogier W. , Burton Dennis R. , Ward Andrew B.
Published: November 2019

To date, immunization studies of rabbits with the BG505 SOSIP.664 HIV envelope glycoprotein trimers have revealed the 241/289 glycan hole as the dominant neutralizing antibody epitope. Here, we isolated monoclonal antibodies from a rabbit that did not exhibit glycan hole-dependent autologous serum neutralization. The antibodies did not compete with a previously isolated glycan hole-specific antibody but did compete with N332 glycan supersite broadly neutralizing antibodies. A high resolution cryoEM structure of one of the antibodies in complex with the BG505 SOSIP.664 trimer demonstrated that, while the epitope recognized overlapped with the N332 glycan supersite by contacting the GDIR motif at the base of V3, the primary contacts were located in the variable V1 loop. These data suggest that strain-specific responses to V1 may interfere with broadly neutralizing responses to the N332 glycan supersite and vaccine immunogens may require engineering to minimize these off-target responses or steer them toward a more desirable pathway.
Applying uses and gratifications theory to understand customer participation in social media brand communities
Authors: Kamboj Shampy
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how various gratifications obtained in the social media context affect customer participation, and its sequential effect on brand trust, brand commitment and word of mouth (WOM) in social media brand communities.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected from 352 respondents who used social media using a survey method. The data were assessed using AMOS with structural equation modeling.

Findings

The findings depicted that among all gratifications obtained in the social media context, information seeking, incentive and brand likeability strongly affect customer participation, which sequentially affect brand trust, commitment and WOM in social media brand communities. In the context of social media brand communities, brand trust partially mediates the relationship between customer participation and its two outcome variables (brand commitment and WOM).

Originality/value

The present paper contributes that theory of uses and gratifications has particular significance and supposed to be provided further importance in the field of social media. It also presents a vivid and rich understanding of why customers use social media and participate in social media brand communities.
An Imbizo at the busy corner
Authors: Maphalala Jabu , Zwane Steven
Published: November 2019

Learning outcomes

The learning outcomes provide insights into how organisations have emerged out of such changes in the external environment, additional complexities that female entrepreneurs have to navigate in patriarchal societies and complexities of handing over control of a family business by the founding generation takes.

Case overview/synopsis

This case is about Rita Zwane’s dilemma as she was about to hand over the management and leadership of Imbizo Shisanyama Restaurant to her son. As founder and Chairperson of the enterprise, Zwane founded the business over 20 years ago and had seen it grow from being housed in a customised shipping container to annually turning over millions of rands per year. Her dilemma was borne out of the belief that many family businesses collapsed after being taken over by the second generation. While Zwane grudgingly admitted that Senzo’s involvement in the business had increased turnover and efficiencies, she was reluctant to let go. This raises a question of whether her dilemma was not only her concern on Senzo’s management abilities but also her difficulty in letting go. The case is suitable for management and change leadership courses on a post graduate level where theories such as attachment theory could be taught to demonstrate that the problem is not always the new leadership in transitioning businesses from the founding generation to second generation of leaders. This is particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises where Imbizo Shisanyama Restaurant is situated. Imbizo Shisanyama Restaurant was founded in 1997 during a period when the abolition of many apartheid laws saw an unprecedented urbanisation process leading to the mushrooming of informal settlements. It is this mushrooming of informal settlements that enabled the establishment of Imbizo Shisanyama Restaurant. The case will provide some insights into opportunities that opened up for Zwane in this pivotal period.

Complexity academic level

Post Graduate Level

Supplementary materials

Teaching Notes are available for educators only. Please contact your library to gain login details or email support@emeraldinsight.com to request teaching notes.

Subject code

CSS 3: Entrepreneurship.
UCOOK: growth challenges faced by a small- to medium-sized South African venture
Authors: Bick Geoff , Odendaal Jeanné
Published: November 2019

Learning outcomes

The learning outcomes are as follows: to understand how technology can be used to create innovative entrepreneurial opportunities; to develop analytical and critical thinking skills to understand organisations, industries and their dynamics; to analyse strategic options for an entrepreneurial organisations and motivate a proposed strategic direction; and to assess the inter-functional requirements for an entrepreneurship to successfully implement a strategy.

Case overview/synopsis

UCOOK, a successful emerging economy SME, is confronted with the threat of retail giants (e.g. Checkers and Woolworths) entering the meal kit space. No longer the only “new kid on the block”, UCOOK has to consider a sustainable growth strategy to remain competitive. The case provides the reader with a snapshot of experiences of a meal kit entrepreneurial venture and what it entails for them to grow in the South African milieu. Principally, this case is designed to impart knowledge and stimulate a practical understanding of entrepreneurship and strategic decision-making in the meal kit industry. Additionally, the purpose is to serve as inspiration for business students to see the opportunities that lie within strategically astute emerging market ventures.

Complexity academic level

The primary target audience for this teaching case is postgraduate business students, especially students of entrepreneurship, strategy and e-commerce. This teaching case is intended to be used as case study in post graduate business programmes such as Master of Business Administration (MBA), a specialist Masters programme such as MM (Entrepreneurship), post-graduate diploma in management (PGDip), as well as selected executive education programmes.

Supplementary materials

Teaching Notes are available for educators only. Please contact your library to gain login details or email support@emeraldinsight.com to request teaching notes.

Subject code

CSS 3: Entrepreneurship.
Irreversibility in two-dimensional magneto-nanomaterial flow of Jeffrey fluid with Arrhenius activation energy
Authors: Ahmad Salman , Ijaz Khan Muhammad , Hayat Tasawar , Waqas Muhammad , Alsaedi Ahmed
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study entropy generation in magneto-Jeffrey nanomaterial flow by impermeable moving boundary. Adopted nanomaterial model accounts Brownian and thermophoretic diffusions. Modeling is arranged for thermal radiation, nonlinear convection and viscous dissipation. In addition, the concept of Arrhenius activation energy associated with chemical reaction are introduced for description of mass transportation.

Design/methodology/approach

Homotopy algorithms are used to compute the system of ordinary differential equations.

Findings

The afore-stated analysis clearly notes that simultaneous aspects of activation energy and entropy generation are not yet investigated. Therefore, the intention here is to consider such effects to formulate and investigate the magneto-Jeffrey nanoliquid flow by impermeable moving surface.

Originality/value

As per the authors’ knowledge, no such work has yet been published in the literature.
Fast custom apparel design and simulation for future demand-driven manufacturing
Authors: Jiang Zhenbin , Guo Juan , Zhang Xinyu
Published: November 2019

Purpose

A common pipeline of apparel design and simulation is adjusting 2D apparel patterns, putting them onto a virtual human model and performing 3D physically based simulation. However, manually adjusting 2D apparel patterns and performing simulations require repetitive adjustments and trials in order to achieve satisfactory results. To support future made-to-fit apparel design and manufacturing, efficient tools for fast custom design purposes are desired. The purpose of this paper is to propose a method to automatically adjust 2D apparel patterns and rapidly generate acustom apparel style for a given human model.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors first pre-define a set of constraints using feature points, feature lines and ease allowance for existing apparels and human models. The authors formulate the apparel fitting to a human model, as a process of optimization using these predefined constraints. Then, the authors iteratively solve the problem by minimizing the total fitting metric.

Findings

The authors observed that through reusing existing apparel styles, the process of designing apparels can be greatly simplified. The authors used a new fitting function to measure the geometric fitting of corresponding feature points/lines between apparels and a human model. Then, the optimized 2D patterns are automatically obtained by minimizing the matching function. The authors’ experiments show that the authors’ approach can increase the reusability of existing apparel styles and improve apparel design efficiency.

Research limitations/implications

There are some limitations. First, in order to achieve interactive performance, the authors’ current 3D simulation does not detect collision within or between adjacent apparel surfaces. Second, the authors’ did not consider multiple layer apparels. It is non-trivial to define ease allowance between multiple layers.

Originality/value

The authors use a set of constraints such as ease allowance, feature points, feature lines, etc. for existing apparels and human models. The authors define a few new fitting functions using these pre-specified constraints. During physics-driven simulation, the authors iteratively minimize these fitting functions.
Fracture behaviour of engineering stone material
Authors: Smolnicki Michał , Cieciura Mateusz , Lesiuk Grzegorz , Correia José , Stabla Paweł
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Engineered stone is a material which can be described as an artificial stone. The exemplary application area is sink production. There are very few research projects about this type of material. In fact, most of them are research conducted by the manufacturing company, which are limited to the basic properties of the material. However, knowledge about fracture mechanic of this material may be crucial in terms of usage. The paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

Analysis of the inside structure was made using an optical microscope as well as SEM. In the paper, methods which can be used to obtain data about fracture behaviour of material are presented. Using eXtended Finite Element Method and experimental data from three-point bending of notched specimens stress intensity factors (SIFs) for I and II load modes were obtained. Finally, a comparison between the fracture initiation angle in the function of the ration of SIFs for I/II load modes and maximum tangential stress hypothesis prediction was presented.

Findings

Analysis of the inside structure proves that this type of material has an uneven distribution of particle size. This can follow to void and micronotches formation and, later, to the failure of the material. A method of obtaining stress intensity factors for the discussed type of material and specimens can be successfully applied to other similar material, as proposed in this work. Standard crack angle propagation criteria are not sufficient for this type of material.

Originality/value

There are very few research papers about this type of material. The subject of fracture mechanic is not properly discovered, despite the fact that IT is important in terms of the application area of these materials.
Can artificial neural network models be used to improve the analysis of B2B marketing research data?
Authors: Wilson R. Dale , Bettis-Outland Harriette
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Artificial neural network (ANN) models, part of the discipline of machine learning and artificial intelligence, are becoming more popular in the marketing literature and in marketing practice. This paper aims to provide a series of tests between ANN models and competing predictive models.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 46 pairs of models were evaluated in an objective model-building environment. Either logistic regression or multiple regression models were developed and then were compared to ANN models using the same set of input variables. Three sets of B2B data were used to test the models. Emphasis also was placed on evaluating small samples.

Findings

ANN models tend to generate model predictions that are more accurate or the same as logistic regression models. However, when ANN models are compared to multiple regression models, the results are mixed. For small sample sizes, the modeling results are the same as for larger samples.

Research limitations/implications

Like all marketing research, this application is limited by the methods and the data used to conduct the research. The findings strongly suggest that, because of their predictive accuracy, ANN models will have an important role in the future of B2B marketing research and model-building applications.

Practical implications

ANN models should be carefully considered for potential use in marketing research and model-building applications by B2B academics and practitioners alike.

Originality/value

The research contributes to the B2B marketing literature by providing a more rigorous test on ANN models using B2B data than has been conducted before.
Investigating the mechanisms of theory of planned behavior on Cyberbullying among Thai adolescents
Authors: Auemaneekul Naruemon , Powwattana Arpaporn , Kiatsiri Emwadee , Thananowan Nanthana
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the etiological model of cyberbullying behaviors among Thai adolescents, testing the hypothesis that the constructs of theory of planned behavior (TPB), including self-esteem, will influence and have impact on cyberbullying intention and behaviors.

Design/methodology/approach

Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to analyze the data. Self-administered questionnaires were used among multi-stage stratified random samples from secondary schools in the Bangkok. The sample size consisting of 354 subjects included those who were victims (44.7 percent), perpetrators (33.1 percent) and witness (67.8 percent).

Findings

The SEM showed subjective norm (SN) to be the most direct influential factor of cyberbullying intention and behaviors, followed by attitude toward cyberbullying (Intentionβ=0.31, 0.24;p=0.01, Behaviorβ=0.09, 0.07;p=0.012 and 0.05, respectively). However, the SEM revealed that all variables from TPB including self-esteem in the equation can explain the variation scores of intention and cyberbullying behaviors at 54 and 67 percent levels (adjustedR2=0.54 and 0.67), respectively. The SEM showed that model modification indices indicate a good fit to the data (χ2=0.00, df=0,p>0.05, CMIN/df=0, GFI=1, AGFI=1, CFI=1 and RMSEA=0).

Research limitations/implications

The experiences or witness of family violence and support at school level, which is supposed to mitigate the bullying problems, were neglected from this study.

Practical implications

The preventive measures for cyberbullying behaviors among adolescents should involve activities fostering self-esteem, developing proper attitude and SN to prevent cyberbullying. The initiatives and developed school supportive system for adolescents to understand how to control themselves when engaging in social network are imperative. However, for future research, family violence witness and attempt to lure the cyberbullying victims into offline meeting should be explored more.

Social implications

TPB and the use of social media should be taken into account for planning and designing appropriate intervention to reduce and eliminate cyberbullying among all stakeholders in both public and private sectors in the area of health and educational institutes in order to endeavor and to advocate the anti-cyberbullying policy in Thailand.

Originality/value

TPB and self-esteem explained a substantial portion of and more modest but significant amount of variance in cyberbullying intention and behaviors. However, SN and attitude toward cyberbullying which was found to be most influential factors could be the useful information for designing intervention toward cyberbullying prevention for Thai adolescents and advocate implementing the anti-cyberbullying policy in Thailand.
How can we solve the puzzle of strategic climate management and appreciate its long-term effects?
Authors: Furlan Alves Marcelo Berbone , Lopes de Sousa Jabbour Ana Beatriz , Barberio Mariano Enzo
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address the perceptions of managers in large companies located in Brazil regarding the long-term and short-term benefits of adopting strategic actions to mitigate and adapt to climate change.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on an empirical analytical method, this paper examines interviews conducted with senior managers of leading companies located in Brazil to identify their perceptions of adopting strategic actions toward mitigating and adapting to climate change.

Findings

The key results are as follows: the most commonly perceived long-term benefit was operational improvement, based on the improved energy efficiency of operations; strategic management of aspects affected by climate change can make managers more aware of the benefits derived from the decisions taken; and a short-term view and aversion to uncertainty can lead to failures in strategic management, limiting the effectiveness of actions for mitigating and adapting to climate change.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the literature on the topic of climate change by presenting evidence that adaptation and mitigation measures can increase organizational managers’ perception of long-term benefits, and that climate change management structures guide managers to make the transition to a low-carbon economy.
Weathering the Storm! The effects of the external environment on police efficiency in Peru
Authors: Alda Erik , Dammert Lucia
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of external factors on police efficiency in a sample of Peru’s municipalities. Drawing on the postulates of the contingency theory of organizations, this study argues that because of the public nature of police organizations’ activities, they are heavily influenced by the environment in which they operate, which invariably affects their efficiency.

Design/methodology/approach

The study examines police efficiency using a four-stage Data Envelopment Analysis model in a sample of 619 Peruvian municipalities (“distritos”). After adjusting the inputs to the external environment, the remaining inefficiencies are presumed to result from managerial issues and other internal organizational factors.

Findings

The results indicate that police efficiency improves after adjusting police inputs to the effect of external factors. The mean efficiency scores improved by 39 percent from 0.57 to 0.79. Because the effects of the external environment can be stronger in larger municipalities, these experience larger improvements in efficiency than smaller municipalities.

Research limitations/implications

There are two important limitations. First, the sample of municipalities in Peru is limited and the results must be interpreted with caution. In addition, the external factors included in the second stage analysis represent only a proportion of all potential external factors which can influence police efficiency. Second, the results presented here explain only one aspect of contingency theory. An important implication of this study suggests that for police managers to make more informed decisions on resource use and allocations, they need a more thorough understanding of the environments in which police operate.

Social implications

It can assist researchers to ascertain the effects of the external environment on police performance. More importantly, it can assist police managers in making informed decisions about resource use and allocation. Consequently, a better use of resources could lead to better policing and improved citizen safety and security.

Originality/value

This study introduces a new and innovative methodological approach to measure police performance. This multi-stage approach has not been used in the context of democratic policing in Latin America and the Caribbean. The current research fills an important gap on how to measure police performance in developing countries.
The hidden power of language
Authors: Hummel Philipp , Hörisch Jacob
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Stakeholder theory research identifies changes in language as one possible mechanism to overcome the deficiencies of current accounting practices with regard to social aspects. This study aims to examine the effects of the terms used for specific accounts on company internal decision-making, drawing on the example of “value creation accounting”.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses a survey based-experiment to analyze the effects of terms used for specific accounts on decision-making, with a focus on social aspects (in particular expenditures for staff) in cost reduction and expenditure decisions.

Findings

The findings indicate that wordings, which more closely relate to value creation than to costs, decrease cost reductions and increase the priority ascribed to the social aspect of reducing staff costs in times of financial shortage. The effects of terms used on cost reductions are stronger among female decision makers.

Practical implications

The analysis suggests that conventional accounting language best suits organizations that aim at incentivizing decision makers to primarily cut costs. By contrast, if an organization follows an approach that puts importance on social aspects in times of financial shortage and on not doing too sharp cost reductions, value creation-oriented language is the more effective approach.

Social implications

The study suggests that the specific terminology used for accounts should be chosen more carefully and with awareness for the possible effects on cost reduction decisions as well as on social consequences.

Originality/value

This study contributes to a better understanding of the relevance of language in accounting. It suggests that the terms used for accounts should be chosen purposefully because of their far-reaching potential consequences for stakeholders as well as for the organization.
Intracellular proliferation of clover yellow vein virus is unaffected by the recessive resistance gene cyv1 of Pisum sativum
Authors: Taninaka Yosuke , Nakahara Kenji S. , Hagiwara‐Komoda Yuka
Published: November 2019

The pea cyv1 gene is a yet‐to‐be‐identified recessive resistance gene that inhibits the infection of clover yellow vein virus (ClYVV). Previous studies confirmed that the cell‐to‐cell movement of ClYVV is inhibited in cyv1‐carrying pea plants; however, the effect of cyv1 on viral replication remains unknown. In this study, we developed a new pea protoplast transfection method to investigate ClYVV propagation at the single‐cell level. Using this method, we revealed that ClYVV accumulates to similar levels in both ClYVV‐susceptible and cyv1‐carrying pea protoplasts. Thus, the cyv1‐mediated resistance would not suppress intracellular ClYVV replication.
Caspase‐7 mediates caspase‐1‐induced apoptosis independently of Bid
Authors: Mahib Mamunur Rashid , Hosojima Shoko , Kushiyama Hiroko , Kinoshita Takeshi , Shiroishi Toshihiko , Suda Takashi , Tsuchiya Kohsuke
Published: November 2019

Inflammasomes are innate immune mechanisms that activate caspase‐1 in response to a variety of stimuli, including Salmonella infection. Active caspase‐1 has a potential to induce two different types of cell death, depending on the expression of the pyroptosis mediator gasdermin D (GSDMD); following caspase‐1 activation, GSDMD‐sufficient and GSDMD‐null/low cells undergo pyroptosis and apoptosis, respectively. Although Bid, a caspase‐1 substrate, plays a critical role in caspase‐1 induction of apoptosis in GSDMD‐null/low cells, an additional mechanism that mediates this cell death independently of Bid has also been suggested. This study investigated the Bid‐independent pathway of caspase‐1‐induced apoptosis. Caspase‐1 has been reported to process caspase‐6 and caspase‐7. Silencing of caspase‐7, but not caspase‐6, significantly reduced the activation of caspase‐3 induced by caspase‐1, which was activated by chemical dimerization, in GSDMD/Bid‐deficient cells. CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated depletion of caspase‐7 had the same effect on the caspase‐3 activation. Moreover, in the absence of GSDMD and Bid, caspase‐7 depletion reduced apoptosis induced by caspase‐1 activation. Caspase‐7 was activated following caspase‐1 activation independently of caspase‐3, suggesting that caspase‐7 acts downstream of caspase‐1 and upstream of caspase‐3. Salmonella induced the activation of caspase‐3 in GSDMD‐deficient macrophages, which relied partly on Bid and largely on caspase‐1. The caspase‐3 activation and apoptotic morphological changes seen in Salmonella‐infected GSDMD/Bid‐deficient macrophages were attenuated by caspase‐7 knockdown. These results suggest that in addition to Bid, caspase‐7 can also mediate caspase‐1‐induced apoptosis and provide mechanistic insights into inflammasome‐associated cell death that is one major effector mechanism of inflammasomes.
Cardiorenal protection with SGLT2: Lessons from the cardiovascular outcome trials
Authors: Silva‐Cardoso José , Sheikh Omar , Nashawi Mouhamed , Pham Son , Gallegos Kelly M. , Dinkha Laith R. , Chilton Robert J.
Published: November 2019

Sodium glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are a class of drugs that were primarily developed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. However, these agents have shown to provide additional beneficial effects. We will discuss three main topics regarding the use of SGLT2 inhibitors: noncardiovascular effects, cardiovascular benefits, and novel clinical indications. Multiple clinical trials and preliminary studies across varying disciplines have shown that these agents exhibit cardiorenal‐protective benefits, retinoprotective benefits, and may aid in weight loss without causing marked hypoglycemia. Therefore, these agents represent an avenue in clinical practice to manage comorbid conditions in the hyperglycemic patient. Because of their multifaceted effects and robust action, SGLT2 inhibitors represent therapy options for providers that not only provide beneficial clinical results but also reduce total patient drug burden.
Prognostic significance of preoperative consolidation to maximum tumour diameter ratio and SUVmax in pathological stage I lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Akın Kabalak Pınar , Yılmaz Ülkü , Ertürk Hakan , Özmen Özlem , Demiröz Şevki Mustafa , Demirağ Funda , Kızılgöz Derya , Kavurgacı Suna , İnal Cengiz Tuba
Published: November 2019

Objectives

Consolidation/tumour (C/T) ratio means the maximum diameter of the consolidation is divided by the maximum diameter of the tumour and it is predictive for pathologic subtypes and prognosis after resection of the tumour. The purpose of this study is to clarify impact of C/T ratio along with maximum standardized uptake value (SUV) in pathological stage I lung adenocarcinoma.

Methods

Only patients with pathological stage I lung adenocarcinoma diagnosed by resection were included. Prognostic impact of C/T ratio and SUVmax were analysed by using regression analyses.

Results

Totally 156 patients (121 males, 35 females) were evaluated retrospectively. Overall survival (OS) and progression free survival (PFS) were higher in patients with C/T ratio ≥0.5 (OS: 46.3 ± 23.7 vs 30.4 ± 14.6, P = 0.002 and PFS: 43.0 ± 25.4 vs 27.8 ± 15.8, P = 0.005). But PFS and OS curves did not reveal any significant differences with Kaplan‐Meier method (P = 0.45 and P = 0.055 respectively). Resection type (limited vs anatomic) and C/T ratio were predictors for OS in multivariate analyses (resection type: HR: 2.21 (1.01‐4.83), P = 0.045 and C/T ratio: HR: 0.44 (0.20‐0.98), P = 0.045). For PFS, resection type and SUVmax had prognostic significance (resection type: HR: 3.56 (1.64‐7.74), P = 0.001 and SUVmax: HR: 1.31 (0.82‐2.99), P = .002).

Conclusion

In pathological stage 1 lung adenocarcinomas, SUVmax and surgery type are important predictors for recurrence rates. For early stage, adenocarcinoma patients with high SUVmax value, tumour size ≥3 cm and high grade subtype, C/T ratio should not be considered significant alone on survival and recurrence.
Cognitive and psychiatric symptoms in genetically determined Parkinson’s disease: a systematic review
Authors: Piredda R. , Desmarais P. , Masellis M. , Gasca‐Salas C.
Published: November 2019

The aim was to review the existing reports on cognitive and behavioural symptoms in monogenic forms of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and to identify recurring patterns of clinical manifestations in those with specific mutations. A systematic literature search was conducted to retrieve observational studies of monogenic PD. Data pertaining to cognitive and psychiatric manifestations were extracted using standardized templates. The PRISMA guidelines were followed. Of the 1889 citations retrieved, 95 studies on PD‐related gene mutations were included: 35 in SNCA, 35 in LRRK2, four in VPS35, 10 in Parkin, three in DJ1 and eight in PINK1. Nineteen studies (20%) provided adequate data from comprehensive cognitive assessment and 31 studies (32.6%) outlined psychiatric manifestations through the use of neuropsychiatric scales. Cognitive impairment was reported in all monogenic PD forms with variable rates (58.8% PINK1, 53.9% SNCA, 50% DJ1, 29.2% VPS35, 15.7% LRRK2 and 7.4% Parkin). In this regard, executive functions and attention were the domains most affected. With respect to psychiatric symptoms, depression was the most frequent symptom, occurring in 37.5% of PINK1 cases and 41.7% of VPS35 and LRRK2 cases. Co‐occurrence of cognitive decline with visual hallucinations was evidenced. Widespread accumulation of Lewy bodies, distinctive of SNCA, PINK1 and DJ1 mutations, results in higher rates of cognitive impairment. Similarly, a higher degree of visual hallucinations is observed in SNCA mutations, probably owing to the more widespread accumulation. The lower rates of α‐synuclein pathology in LRRK2 and Parkin may underpin the more benign disease course in these patients.
The price of anarchy in closed‐loop supply chains
Authors: Ma Zu‐Jun , Ye Yu‐Sen , Dai Ying , Yan Hong
Published: November 2019

This paper measures the worst‐case efficiency of price‐only contracts in closed‐loop supply chains (CLSCs) with the price of anarchy (PoA). We model a single‐period Stackelberg game in which a manufacturer sells new products to a retailer and collects used products with exogenous retail price and collection price via three alternative reverse channels: (a) the manufacturer collects directly from customers, (b) the retailer collects for the manufacturer, and (c) a third party is awarded a collection subcontract from the manufacturer. We carry out a comprehensive investigation under push–pull configurations to observe how reverse channel structures with different gaming sequences of CLSC members influence the worst‐case performance when the demand distribution is over the set of increasing generalized failure rate distributions. From our PoA analysis, we find that the pull system does not always outperform the push system, especially when the retailer is the leader, in contrast to the results for forward supply chains. While the PoA of the push system is dramatically sensitive to the quality condition of used products, the pull system has a constant efficiency loss that is independent of the quality condition. Instead, the PoA of the pull system solely changes with the gaming sequence of the manufacturer. We also find that manufacturer's direct collection is a better reverse channel choice compared to retailer's collection. Additional managerial insights are summarized for discussion.
Oreonectes guilinensis (Teleostei, Cypriniformes, Nemacheilidae), a new loach species from Guangxi, China
Authors: Huang Jin‐Qing , Yang Jian , Wu Zhi‐Qiang , Zhao Ya‐Hui
Published: November 2019

A new loach Oreonectes guilinensis sp. nov. is described from Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China. It is the second surface‐dwelling fish identified in the genus Oreonectes after the type species Oreonectes platycephalus. This new species can be distinguished from other species within the genus by the combination of the following features: a round caudal fin, 13–14 branched rays, an incomplete lateral line with 4–6 pores, a short pelvic fin located some distance from the anus, a scale‐covered body, a stout build (body width 14.0%–16.7% of standard length), a posterior chamber of well‐developed airbladder and a yellowish‐brown body with a lateral dark brown strip. The maximum likelihood phylogenetic analysis based on cytb gene recovered this new species in a well‐supported clade with the type species O. platycephalus, sister to the Lefua clade. Morphological comparisons as well as our phylogenetic tree support Oreonectes shuilongensis, Oreonectes daqikongensis, Oreonectes jiarongensis as species of Troglonectes. Based on our results there are 6 valid species in the genus Oreonectes.
Differences in morphological growth trajectories between greenside darter Etheostoma blennioides populations from two distinct drainages
Authors: Geheber Aaron D. , Miller Destini C.
Published: November 2019

The greenside darter Etheostoma blennioides is a small‐bodied benthic stream fish that occurs in multiple drainages of the eastern USA. Previous studies have revealed some morphological differentiations among greensides from isolated drainage systems but growth relationships among functional morphological characteristics have not been examined within and between populations. Specifically, we tested for differences in functional morphology and allometric distinctions in morphological growth trajectories between greenside populations from two drainages, the Osage River and White River. Morphological differences between individuals of the two drainages included more dorso‐ventrally compressed bodies, longer snouts and larger jaw features in White River darters. Furthermore, body depth, snout length and jaw width grow at significantly different trajectories in individuals of the two drainages. Individuals of the White River drainage (generally a higher gradient stream system) become comparatively more streamlined and develop proportionately larger feeding related traits during growth. These results suggest that individuals of both drainages share a similar morphology during early life but deviate during continued development and this may be partially due to environmentally induced plastic response. This study represents a novel approach for comparing morphological development among fish populations and presents environmental factors (e.g., stream gradient and elevation) that potentially influence functional characteristics.
Dynamic non‐photochemical quenching in plants: from molecular mechanism to productivity
Authors: Murchie Erik H. , Ruban Alexander V.
Published: November 2019

Photoprotection refers to a set of well defined plant processes that help to prevent the deleterious effects of high and excess light on plant cells, especially within the chloroplast. Molecular components of chloroplast photoprotection are closely aligned with those of photosynthesis and together they influence productivity. Proof of principle now exists that major photoprotective processes such as non‐photochemical quenching (NPQ) directly determine whole canopy photosynthesis, biomass and yield via prevention of photoinhibition and a momentary downregulation of photosynthetic quantum yield. However, this phenomenon has neither been quantified nor well characterized across different environments. Here we address this problem by assessing the existing literature with a different approach to that taken previously, beginning with our understanding of the molecular mechanism of NPQ and its regulation within dynamic environments. We then move to the leaf and the plant level, building an understanding of the circumstances (when and where) NPQ limits photosynthesis and linking to our understanding of how this might take place on a molecular and metabolic level. We argue that such approaches are needed to fine tune the relevant features necessary for improving dynamic NPQ in important crop species.
Decreased Postural Control in Patients Undergoing Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Compared to Healthy Controls
Authors: Staples Jonathon R. , Schafer Kevin A. , Smith Matthew V. , Motley John , Halstead Mark , Blackman Andrew , Haas Amanda , Steger-May Karen , Matava Matthew J. , Wright Rick W. , Brophy Robert H.
Published: November 2019

Context:Patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears are likely to have deficient dynamic postural stability compared with healthy sex- and age-matched controls.Objectives:To test the hypothesis that patients undergoing ACL reconstruction have decreased dynamic postural stability compared with matched healthy controls.Design:Prospective case-control study.Setting:Orthopedic sports medicine and physical therapy clinics.Patients or Other Participants:Patients aged 20 years and younger with an ACL tear scheduled for reconstruction were enrolled prospectively. Controls were recruited from local high schools and colleges via flyers.Interventions:Patients underwent double-stance dynamic postural stability testing prior to surgery, recording time to failure and dynamic motion analysis (DMA) scores. Patients were then matched with healthy controls.Main Outcome Measures:Demographics, time to failure, and DMA scores were compared between groups.Results:A total of 19 females and 12 males with ACL tears were matched with controls. Individuals with ACL tears were more active (Marx activity score: 15.7 [1.0] vs 10.8 [4.9],P < .001); had shorter times until test failure (84.4 [15.8] vs 99.5 [14.5] s,P < .001); and had higher (worse) DMA scores (627 [147] vs 481 [132],P < .001), indicating less dynamic postural stability. Six patients with ACL deficiency (1 male and 5 females) demonstrated lower (better) DMA scores than their controls, and another 7 (4 males and 3 females) were within 20% of controls.Conclusions:Patients undergoing ACL reconstruction had worse global dynamic postural stability compared with well-matched controls. This may represent the effect of the ACL injury or preexisting deficits that contributed to the injury itself. These differences should be studied further to evaluate their relevance to ACL injury risk, rehabilitation, and return to play.
Intestinal IgA Regulates Expression of a Fructan Polysaccharide Utilization Locus in Colonizing Gut Commensal Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron
Authors: Joglekar Payal , Ding Hua , Canales-Herrerias Pablo , Pasricha Pankaj Jay , Sonnenburg Justin L. , Peterson Daniel A.
Published: November 2019

Given the significant impact that gut microbes have on our health, it is essential to identify key host and environmental factors that shape this diverse community. While many studies have highlighted the impact of diet on gut microbiota, little is known about how the host regulates this critical diet-microbiota interaction. In our present study, we discovered that gut IgA targeted a protein complex involved in the utilization of an important dietary polysaccharide: fructan. While the presence of dietary fructans was previously thought to allow unrestricted growth of fructan-utilizing bacteria, our work shows that gut IgA, by targeting proteins responsible for fructan utilization, provides the host with tools that can restrict the microbial utilization of such polysaccharides, thereby controlling their growth.
A Novel Neuraminidase-Dependent Hemagglutinin Cleavage Mechanism Enables the Systemic Spread of an H7N6 Avian Influenza Virus
Authors: Kwon Hyeok-il , Kim Young-Il , Park Su-Jin , Kim Eun-Ha , Kim Semi , Si Young-Jae , Song Min-Suk , Pascua Philippe Noriel Q. , Govorkova Elena A. , Webster Robert G. , Webby Richard J. , Choi Young Ki
Published: November 2019

The identification of virulence markers in influenza viruses underpins risk assessment programs and the development of novel therapeutics. The cleavage of the influenza virus HA is a required step in the viral life cycle, and phenotypic differences in viruses can be caused by changes in this process. Here, we describe a novel mechanism for HA cleavage in an H7N6 influenza virus isolated from a mallard duck. The mechanism requires the N6 protein and full activity of thrombin-like proteases and allows the virus to cause systemic infection in chickens, ducks, and mice. The thrombin-mediated cleavage of HA is thus a novel virulence determinant of avian influenza viruses.
Unusual solution to abdominal pain with contrast enhanced ultrasound
Authors: Montemerani Sara , Castellani Luca , Guazzi Gianni , Pastorelli Marcello
Published: November 2019

Splenic infarction might be the symptom onset of an important underlying disease. The possibility of splenic infarction must be inserted into differential diagnosis in all those patients who have pain in the upper left quadrant and/or on the left flank. When faced with a case of splenic infarction in a patient who has flown or climbed to high altitudes, it is appropriate to consider the possibility of an haemoglobinopathy. The diagnosis is far from being obvious for emergency physicians. For these reasons, it is very important to proceed as a multidisciplinary team with appropriate diagnostic examinations. The European Guidelines for non-hepatic applications of contrast enhanced ultrasound suggest the usage of this tool for investigation of suspected ischaemic lesions of the spleen.
Acoustic neuroma with orofacial paresthesia: description of an atypical presentation
Authors: Lim Chee Chean , Misron Khairunnisak , Liew Yew Toong , Wong Eugene Hung Chih
Published: November 2019

Acoustic neuroma (AN) usually manifests with asymmetric hearing loss, tinnitus, dizziness and sense of disequilibrium. About 10% of patients complain of atypical symptoms, which include facial numbness or pain and sudden onset of hearing loss. Patients with atypical symptoms also tend to have larger tumours due to the delay in investigation. We report a particularly interesting case of a patient presented to us with numbness over her right hemifacial region after a dental procedure without significant acoustic and vestibular symptoms. Physical examination and pure tone audiometry revealed no significant findings but further imaging revealed a cerebellopontine angle mass. The changing trends with easier access to further imaging indicate that the presentation of patients with AN are also changing. Atypical symptoms which are persistent should raise clinical suspicion of this pathology among clinicians.
Consultations with patients for whom English is not their first language
Authors: Turner Benjamin , Madi Heba
Published: November 2019

Good communication is essential in neurological consultations, yet this is obviously compromised by the absence of a common language. Interpreters can make valuable contributions to improving consultations, but translation has its shortcomings. The consultation dialogue is not always interpreted correctly or accurately, even (or especially) when friends or family are translating. Clinicians should therefore try to ensure that key information has been communicated and understood, perhaps by repetition or asking the patient to say what they have understood. Cultural factors are also important in the patient–physician interaction. Physicians should try to adopt a culturally sensitive approach during consultations, familiarising themselves with cultural norms within the prevalent ethnic minority groups in their area. They should resist directive approaches to save time and try to involve the patient in decision-making. This requires allocating extra time to consultations with patients for whom English is not their first language.