bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Subsidiary strategy and managers’ perceptions of distance to foreign markets
Authors: Antunes Isabel Cristina Martins , Barandas Hortênsia Gouveia , Martins Francisco Vitorino
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how headquarters’ managers perceive – cultural, administrative, geographic and economic (CAGE) – distance between countries and its influence on the strategy of international subsidiaries.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applies the transaction cost and behavioural theory and presents an exploratory and qualitative methodology approach through six semi-structured in-depth interviews to evaluate managers’ perceptions of distance between countries.

Findings

The research findings show that cultural and economic distances indeed have a major influence on subsidiary strategy and a smaller impact of administrative and geographic dimensions, which results into forced changes on the marketing-mix, i.e. product, price, design and brand, as well as on the level of autonomy granted to foreign subsidiaries.

Research limitations/implications

The limitation is related to the home country and the entry mode of foreign direct investment. The findings presented here reflect the nature and behaviour of Portuguese companies with subsidiaries.

Practical implications

The research provides recommendations for managers to be aware of the influence of more than one dimension of distance between countries to improve their decision-making of standardisation-adaptation strategy for foreign subsidiaries. Furthermore, the study stresses that managers’ perceptions may lead to the conclusion that proximity and knowledge of foreign markets does not make international business easier.

Originality/value

This empirical research not only tests the transaction cost theory and behavioural theory on managers’ decisions to invest abroad but also promotes organisational changes to achieve the suitable strategy for international subsidiaries. The study contributes to the area of international business by positing six research propositions concerning distance between countries to be tested in future studies.
Phycocyanobilin reduces brain injury after endothelin‐1‐ induced focal cerebral ischaemia
Authors: Pavón‐Fuentes Nancy , Marín‐Prida Javier , Llópiz‐Arzuaga Alexey , Falcón‐Cama Viviana , Campos‐Mojena Rosario , Cervantes‐Llanos Majel , Piniella‐Matamoros Beatriz , Pentón‐Arias Eduardo , Pentón‐Rol Giselle
Published: November 2019

Pharmacological therapies for interrupting biochemical events of the ischaemic cascade and protecting against stroke in humans are as yet unavailable. Up to now, the neuroprotective activity in cerebral ischaemia of phycocyanobilin (PCB), a tetrapyrrolic natural antioxidant, has not been fully examined. Here, we evaluated if PCB protects PC12 neuronal cells against oxygen and glucose deprivation plus reperfusion, and its protective effects in a rat model of endothelin‐1‐induced focal brain ischaemia. PCB was purified from the cyanobacteria Spirulina platensis and characterized by spectrophotometric, liquid and gas chromatography and mass spectrometry techniques. In Wistar rats, PCB at 50, 100 and 200 μg/kg or phosphate‐buffered saline (vehicle) was administered intraperitoneally at equal subdoses in a therapeutic schedule (30 minutes, 1, 3 and 6 hours after the surgery). Brain expression of myelin basic protein (MBP) and the enzyme CNPase was determined by immunoelectron microscopy. PCB was obtained with high purity (>95%) and the absence of solvent contaminants and was able to ameliorate PC12 cell ischaemic injury. PCB treatment significantly decreased brain infarct volume, limited the exploratory behaviour impairment and preserved viable cortical neurons in ischaemic rats in a dose‐dependent manner, compared to the vehicle group. Furthermore, PCB at high doses restored the MBP and CNPase expression levels in ischaemic rats. An improved PCB purification method from its natural source is reported, obtaining PCB that is suitable for pharmacological trials showing neuroprotective effects against experimental ischaemic stroke. Therefore, PCB could be a therapeutic pharmacological alternative for ischaemic stroke patients.
Woven Writing in Early China
Authors: Wang Michelle H.
Published: November 2019

This essay examines Chinese woven inscriptions dated from the first to fifth centuries CE and excavated in Xinjiang in order to explore the relationship between close reading and close looking as part of the study of writing in art history. It suggests that material processes that underlie the production of writing become legible when writing is seen up close. Yet, to read closely requires a certain distance from the writing, so that these processes do not interfere with the readability of the text. Weavers, however, occupied a unique position where the legible techniques of making writing are inextricable from its readable content. By tracing weavers’ design processes, this essay attends to all relevant viewing distances, and takes into account both readable content and legible manufacture, in order to highlight weavers’ innovations in script design by way of their material literacy.
Enabling strategies and impeding factors to urban resilience implementation: A scoping review
Authors: Therrien Marie‐Christine , Usher Susan , Matyas David
Published: November 2019

Despite growing interest in urban resilience, there is a significant gap between discourse and the capacity to develop resilience in practice. This scoping review assembles and shares evidence and insights from empirical studies of attempts to implement urban resilience published between 2005 and 2017. More precisely, it seeks to identify enabling strategies, impeding factors and trade‐offs in the implementation of urban resilience. Findings are presented along the dimensions of urban resilience detailed in the City Resilience Framework (ARUP/Rockefeller Foundation): Health and Wellbeing, Economy and Society, Infrastructure and Environment, and Leadership and Strategy (which we present as a cross‐cutting theme). While some enabling and impeding factors in implementation are associated with a specific dimension, others are common to all three. Across dimensions, we find that transparent, inclusive and supportive governance reduces the risk of negative impact that resilience implementation will have on communities. Conflicting priorities of managing risk and meeting short‐term needs are found to diminish the potential for transformative resilience action. Integrating risk into planning appears as a promising strategy in all dimensions of resilience. Trade‐offs are found in resilience implementation, and range from adverse effects associated with infrastructure to power imbalances when the power to implement resilience privileges one system level over another.
The housing price premium associated with charter schools
Authors: Beracha Eli , Hardin William G.
Published: November 2019

The existing literature documents a clear relation between public school quality and a residential real estate price premium. The literature on whether charter school availability and quality are associated with a price premium, however, is surprisingly thin. After controlling for public school quality, we provide evidence that residential real estate price premiums are associated with charter school availability and quality. The price premium is smaller than that of quality public schools, but is economically meaningful when the quality of charter schools exceeds the quality of public schools. The price premium associated with charter schools is more prominent in areas where a large percentage of the population is between the ages of 6 and 18 and for family‐oriented housing types. We also show that the premium associated with quality charter schools varies with school type and is highest for high schools. The findings contribute to the literature on school quality with policy implications relating to school choice options such as charter schools and vouchers.
Employee productivity and REIT performance
Authors: Feng Zifeng , Hardin William G. , Wu Zhonghua
Published: November 2019

The impact of employee productivity on real estate investment trust (REIT) performance is examined. Using a sample of U.S. equity REITs from 2003 to 2017, we first estimate parameters of a firm‐level production function correcting for endogenous input choices. The coefficient for labor input is statistically significant, indicating that labor productivity is an important component of overall REIT productivity. More importantly, REIT operating efficiency and financial performance are found to be negatively correlated with previous‐year employee instability (a proxy for employee turnover), but positively correlated with several lagged employee productivity measures, suggesting that a stable, motivated workforce improves a REIT's operating efficiency and performance. These findings suggest that employees play an important role in REIT operations and that managing employees properly and creating an effective corporate culture are essential to REIT performance.
Hydrologic Resilience from Summertime Fog and Recharge: A Case Study for Coho Salmon Recovery Planning
Authors: Torregrosa Alicia , Flint Lorraine E. , Flint Alan L.
Published: November 2019

Fog and low cloud cover (FLCC) and late summer recharge increase stream baseflow and decrease stream temperature during arid Mediterranean climate summers, which benefits salmon especially under climate warming conditions. The potential to discharge cool water to streams during the late summer (hydrologic capacity; HC) furnished by FLCC and recharge were mapped for the 299 subwatersheds ranked Core, Phase 1, or Phase 2 under the National Marine Fisheries Service Recovery Plan that prioritized restoration and threat abatement action for endangered Central California Coast Coho Salmon evolutionarily significant unit. Two spatially continuous gridded datasets were merged to compare HC: average hrs/day FLCC, a new dataset derived from a decade of hourly National Weather Satellite data, and annual average mm recharge from the USGS Basin Characterization Model. Two use‐case scenarios provide examples of incorporating FLCC‐driven HC indices into long‐term recovery planning. The first, a thermal analysis under future climate, projected 65% of the watershed area for 8–19 coho population units as thermally inhospitable under two global climate models and identified several units with high resilience (high HC under the range of projected warming conditions). The second use case investigated HC by subwatershed rank and coho population, and identified three population units with high HC in areas ranked Phase 1 and 2 and low HC in Core. Recovery planning for cold‐water fish species would benefit by including FLCC in vulnerability analyses.
Sociodemographic factors as determinants of disease, disability and quality of life trajectories in early rheumatoid arthritis: A multi‐ethnic inception cohort study
Authors: Zou Yuhan , Cheung Peter P. , Teoh Lay Kheng , Chen Cynthia , Lahiri Manjari
Published: November 2019

Objective

This study aims to describe the association between sociodemographic factors and trajectories of disease, disability and health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) in early rheumatoid arthritis (ERA).

Methods

Data were collected prospectively over 3 years in the Singapore Early Arthritis Cohort study. Trajectories were modeled using multi‐trajectory group‐based trajectory modeling (GBTM) and determinants of trajectory membership were identified using multinomial logistic regression.

Results

Two hundred and thirteen patients were included: 58.2% Chinese, 16.4% Malay, 21.6% Indian, mean (SD) age 51.3 (12.6) years and symptom duration 21.8 (15.3) weeks. In the multi‐trajectory analysis, three groups of disease trajectories and corresponding disability and HRQoL trajectories were identified: group 1 (moderate disease rapid response, 49.9%), group 2 (high disease rapid response, 31.1%) and group 3 (high disease slow response, 19.1%). Malay patients had higher relative risk ratio (RRR) of being in trajectory groups 2 and 3 compared to group 1 (RRR = 2.30, 95% CI 1.05‐3.98 and RRR = 4.02, 95% CI 1.45‐6.43, respectively) while patients with tertiary education had lower relative risk (RRR = 0.56, 95% CI 0.45‐0.89 and RRR = 0.33, (95% CI 0.14‐0.83, respectively). In the analysis of individual outcomes, ethnicity, education level and body mass index were determinants of the heterogeneous disease activity trajectories. Gender and education level were determinants of the disability trajectories. Only gender was a determinant of the HRQoL trajectories. Further, 96.2% of the patients were treated with conventional synthetic disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs.

Conclusion

Disparities in sociodemographic factors should be taken into consideration in formulating treatment strategies in ERA.
Inter‐rater reliability of modified hand mobility in scleroderma test
Authors: Tore Nurten Gizem , Sari Fulden , Sarac Devrim Can , Baglan Yentur Songul , Satis Hasan , Avanoglu Guler Aslihan , Haznedaroglu Seminur , Oskay Deran
Published: November 2019

Aim

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic autoimmune disease of unknown etiology characterized by excessive collagen production, endothelial cell injury, microvascular obliteration, cutaneous fibrosis and progressive visceral disease. The hands are frequently involved during the progression of the disease, with symmetrical skin thickening as a prominent feature. Modified hand mobility in scleroderma (mHAMIS) test is a measurement method to assess hand mobility in patients with SSc. Knowing the inter‐rater reliability of the instrument is important in order for the results from different examiners to be accurately interpreted. The aim of this study was to test inter‐rater reliability of the mHAMIS test.

Method

Hand mobility for both hands was assessed in 25 female patients with SSc by 2 physiotherapists who have different years of experience. Patients who had flexion contracture in at least 1 finger and undergone hand surgery in the last year due to any injuries, were excluded from the study since hand mobility was prevented. Inter‐rater reliability was determined using intra‐class correlation coefficients (ICCs).

Result

The ICCs were excellent between raters for dominant and non‐dominant hands. The values were 0.92 and 0.93, respectively.

Conclusion

The inter‐rater reliability of the mHAMIS was found to be excellent. This research contributes to the literature by proving that the test can be used without causing bias in clinical trials.
The Impact of Paternal Alcohol Consumption on Offspring Brain and Behavioral Development
Authors: Conner Kathleen E. , Bottom Riley T. , Huffman Kelly J.
Published: November 2019

Background

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) describe the wide array of long‐lasting developmental abnormalities in offspring due to prenatal alcohol (ethanol [EtOH]) exposure via maternal gestational drinking. Although the teratogenic consequences of prenatal EtOH exposure, are apparent, the effects of preconception paternal EtOH exposure (PatEE) are still unclear. Previous research suggests that PatEE can induce molecular changes and abnormal behavior in the offspring. However, it is not known whether PatEE impacts the development of the neocortex and behavior in offspring as demonstrated in maternal consumption models of FASD (J Neurosci, 33, 2013, 18893).

Methods

In this study, we utilized a novel mouse model of PatEE where male mice self‐administered 25% EtOH for an extended period prior to conception, generating indirect exposure to the offspring through the paternal germline. Following mating, we examined the effects of PatEE on offspring neocortical development at postnatal day (P) 0 and evaluated several aspects of behavior at both P20 and P30 using a battery of behavioral assays.

Results

PatEE resulted in significant impact on neocortical development, including abnormal patterns of gene expression within the neocortex at P0 and subtle alterations in patterns of intraneocortical connections. Additionally, PatEE mice exhibited a sex‐specific increase in activity and sensorimotor integration deficits at P20, and decreased balance, coordination, and short‐term motor learning at P30. This suggests that PatEE may generate long‐lasting, sex‐specific effects on offspring behavior.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate that the developmental impact of preconception PatEE is more harmful than previously thought and provide additional insights into the biological mechanisms that may underlie atypical behavior observed in children of alcoholic fathers.
A meta‐regression of the impact of policy on the efficacy of individual placement and support
Authors: Brinchmann B. , Widding‐Havneraas T. , Modini M. , Rinaldi M. , Moe C. F. , McDaid D. , Park A‐L. , Killackey E. , Harvey S. B. , Mykletun A.
Published: November 2019

Objective

Individual placement and support (IPS) has shown consistently better outcomes on competitive employment for patients with severe mental illness than traditional vocational rehabilitation. The evidence for efficacy originates from few countries, and generalization to different countries has been questioned. This has delayed implementation of IPS and led to requests for country‐specific RCTs. This meta‐analysis examines if evidence for IPS efficacy can be generalized between rather different countries.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines to identify RCTs. Overall efficacy was established by meta‐analysis. The generalizability of IPS efficacy between countries was analysed by random‐effects meta‐regression, employing country‐ and date‐specific contextual data obtained from the OECD and the World Bank.

Results

The systematic review identified 27 RCTs. Employment rates are more than doubled in IPS compared with standard vocational rehabilitation (RR 2.07 95% CI 1.82–2.35). The efficacy of IPS was marginally moderated by strong legal protection against dismissals. It was not moderated by regulation of temporary employment, generosity of disability benefits, type of integration policies, GDP, unemployment rate or employment rate for those with low education.

Conclusions

The evidence for efficacy of IPS is very strong. The efficacy of IPS can be generalized between countries.
Problem drinking alters gray matter volume and food cue responses of the lateral orbitofrontal cortex
Authors: Le Thang M. , Zhornitsky Simon , Wang Wuyi , Zhang Sheng , Li Chiang‐Shan R.
Published: November 2019

Alcohol misuse is associated with significant energy deficits. As feeding involves multiple sensory, cognitive, and affective processes, low food intake in problem drinkers likely reflects alterations in both regional and inter‐regional responses. To investigate the effects of problem drinking on feeding‐related neural activities and connectivities, we examined functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data in 82 drinkers who viewed palatable food and nonfood images in alternating blocks. Drinking severity was assessed with the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). A whole‐brain multiple regression with AUDIT scores as the predictor showed a negative correlation between drinking severity and activation to food vs nonfood cues in the lateral orbitofrontal cortex (lOFC). AUDIT scores were also negatively correlated with the gray matter volume (GMV) of the lOFC and regions that responded preferentially to food stimuli, including the left middle frontal gyrus, bilateral middle insula, and occipital cortices. Connectivity strength between the lOFC and these regions was negatively modulated by drinking severity. In contrast, there was no relationship between AUDIT scores and lOFC connectivity with regions that did not show either selectivity to food images or GMV loss. A mediation analysis further suggested that alcohol misuse may have compromised lOFC's structural integrity, which in turn disrupted lOFC interactions with regions that support the processing of visual food cues. Overall, the findings provide evidence for the effects of problem drinking on the brain substrates of feeding, potentially shedding light on the neural mechanisms underlying energy deficits in at‐risk drinkers.
Pollination efficiency and foraging behaviour of honey bees and non‐Apis bees to sweet cherry
Authors: Eeraerts Maxime , Vanderhaegen Ruben , Smagghe Guy , Meeus Ivan
Published: November 2019

Crop pollination generally increases with pollinator diversity and wild pollinator visitation. To optimize crop pollination, it is necessary to investigate the pollination contribution of different pollinator species. In the present study, we examined this contribution of honey bees and non‐Apis bees (bumble bees, mason bees and other solitary bees) in sweet cherry.

We assessed the pollination efficiency (fruit set of flowers receiving only one visit) and foraging behaviour (flower visitation rate, probability of tree change, probability of row change and contact with the stigma) of honey bees and different types of non‐Apis bees.

Single visit pollination efficiency on sweet cherry was higher for both mason bees and solitary bees compared with bumble bees and honey bees. The different measures of foraging behaviour were variable among non‐Apis bees and honey bees. Adding to their high single visit efficiency, mason bees also visited significantly more flower per minute, and they had a high probability of tree change and a high probability to contact the stigma.

The results of the present study highlight the higher pollination performance of solitary bees and especially mason bees compared with bumble bees and honey bees. Management to support species with high pollination efficiency and effective foraging behaviour will promote crop pollination.
Can food allergy be cured? What are the future prospects?
Authors: Sampath Vanitha , Sindher Sayantani B. , Alvarez Pinzon Andres M. , Nadeau Kari C.
Published: November 2019

Food allergies have become a significant heath burden as prevalence continues to rise, affecting 6%‐13% of the global population. In the absence of drugs approved by regulatory agencies, the current standard of care remains avoidance of allergenic foods and management of acute allergic reactions with antihistamines and epinephrine autoinjectors. Allergen immunotherapy has been shown to increase the threshold of reactivity in the majority of food‐allergic individuals. However, challenges include long treatment periods, high rates of adverse reactions, and lack of permanence of desensitization and established protocols. To address these limitations, adjunctive allergen‐specific immunotherapy, vaccines, and non–allergen‐specific therapies (eg, monoclonal antibodies) are being explored. The future of food allergy treatment is promising with a number of clinical trials in progress. Currently, although desensitization can be achieved for the majority of individuals with food allergy through immunotherapy, continued ingestion of allergen is needed for most individuals to maintain desensitization. Further understanding of the mechanisms of food allergy and identification of biomarkers to distinguish between temporary and permanent resolution of allergies is needed before a cure, where reactivity to the allergen is permanently lost enabling the individual to consume the allergen in any amount at any time, can be envisioned.
Waiting for Fırat
Authors: Frankel Alexandra Vieux
Published: November 2019

This short story explores the struggle to translate both experience and language. Based on research I conducted in İstanbul in 2015, this work of ethnographic fiction examines the production and reproduction of memories of the Gezi Park Protests, in the form of narrative and bodily experience. The narrative builds on the juxtaposition of clean and filthy that is introduced by one of the narrator’s interlocutors as he recounts his experience of police violence during the protests. The narrator seeks to understand how a blow first described as “clean” is only sentences later rendered “filthy,” and how to translate it. This linguistic exploration also becomes a corporeal one: the narrator navigates the dichotomy of clean and filthy through her own bodily experiences conducting fieldwork. This becomes one way in which she accesses the feminist underpinnings of the protests, which her interlocutors understood in terms of resistance to the encroachment of the state into women’s intimate lives. Shared corporeal experiences provide a path toward a translation that at the same time allows the narrator to confront the very incommensurability of supposedly shared experiences.
Incidence and predictors of common bile duct stones in patients with acute cholecystitis: a systematic literature review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Chen Hongyi , Jorissen Robert , Walcott James , Nikfarjam Mehrdad
Published: November 2019

Background

Acute cholecystitis (AC) is a surgical condition that is usually managed by emergency surgery. The presence of common bile duct stones (CBDS) in this setting mandates definitive treatment to avoid complications such as cholangitis. The incidence of CBDS in the setting of AC is poorly defined.

Methods

A systematic English literature search was conducted in PubMed, MEDLINE and Embase to determine the incidence of CBDS in patients presenting with AC. Outlier studies identified by funnel plot analysis were excluded and the incidence of CBDS was identified. The mean CBD diameter and liver function test values of patients with AC and CBDS were calculated.

Results

Data were extracted from 19 studies representing a total 4057 patients with AC. Routine biliary imaging was not performed in all studies. The pooled incidence of CBDS was 13.7% (95% confidence interval 11.8–15.9). The incidence of unsuspected retained CBDS was 1.1%. Histologically confirmed cases of AC had a similar rate of CBDS compared to those diagnosed clinically. The mean CBD diameter of patients with AC and CBDS was 7.2 mm compared to 5.8 mm without. Liver function test values in the presence of CBDS were more likely to be deranged, with gamma‐glutamyltransferase the most sensitive and specific marker for CBDS in the setting of AC.

Conclusion

CBDS is present in a significant proportion of patients presenting with AC. Routine biliary imaging is advised in all patients presenting with AC where possible.
Sources of obsidian artefacts, exchange networks and landscape use in Auca Mahuida (Neuquén, north‐western Patagonia)
Authors: Rindel D. D. , Perez S. I. , Barberena R. , MacDonald B. L. , Glascock M. D.
Published: November 2019

The results of the X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis of 59 obsidian samples from 11 archaeological sites in the Auca Mahuida region of north‐western Neuquén, Argentina, are present. They indicate that several obsidian sources were used; however, the intensities of their exploitation were variable. Strong differences appear between the Colorado River basin, characterized by a low variability of obsidian groups from northern Neuquén; the Auca volcano, with a low variability of obsidian groups, but from local sources located north and southwards of the study area; and along Bajo del Añelo, which presents a high variability of obsidian groups from several local and non‐local sources. The pattern recorded fits different mechanisms of access to the sources and the conveyance of obsidian across the landscape. Two distinct paths of direct access are suggested for obsidian availability along the Colorado River in northern Neuquén and for Portada Covunco obsidian in central Neuquén. Additionally, the presence of obsidian from sources in southern Neuquén province (Cerro Las Planicies‐Lago Lolog), located about 350 km from the study area, is suggested. While not yet conclusive, this possibility parsimoniously integrates the available geochemical and spatial information, allowing the existence of either long‐distance transport or indirect access by exchange or similar mechanisms to be proposed.
The digital restoration of painted patterns on the No. 2 Qin bronze chariot based on hyperspectral imaging
Authors: Han D. , Ma L. , Ma S. , Zhang J.
Published: November 2019

The No. 2 Qin bronze chariot unearthed from Qinshihuang's Mausoleum is world famous for its huge size and colourful painted patterns. However, since it had been buried for a long time and was affected by its harsh environment, its painted patterns have been severely damaged. The traditional restoration methods, which mainly rely on expert experience, are manual, inefficient and lack scientific support. Moreover, to protect the important cultural relics, any invasive operations, such as sampling analysis, are strictly prohibited. This paper presents a method that combines hyperspectral imaging and computer technology for the digital virtual restoration of the bronze chariot's patterns. It is non‐destructive, more efficient and more scientific. The method reproduces the damaged patterns with the following approaches: restoring the missing edges of the patterns; and distinguishing the different pigments. The obtained result implies that the method can digitally reproduce some of the damaged patterns, and that it can be used as a reference for recreating the patterns of the other painted bronze.
Chemical and mineralogical characterization of Aguada Portezuelo pottery from Catamarca, north‐western Argentina: PIXE, XRD and SEM‐EDS studies applied to surface pre‐ and post‐firing paints, slips and pastes
Authors: De La Fuente G. A. , Josa V. G. , Castellano G. , Limandri S. , Vera S. D. , Días J. F. , Suárez S. , Bernardi G. , Bertolino S.
Published: November 2019

Particle‐induced X‐ray emission (PIXE), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), electron microprobe analysis (EDS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analytical techniques were used to characterize surface paints in pre‐ and post‐fired Aguada Portezuelo decorated pottery. Surface paintings in black, white, red, brown, burgundy and ochre were analysed. Major, minor and trace elements were detected by PIXE, whereas XRD and SEM‐EDS gave information on the main mineral phases and the characteristic morphology for each analysed pigment. The results obtained indicate that the main colour groups can be easily discriminated by PIXE, and they are characterized by only one pigment for each colour: hematite (red) and manganese mineral oxides (black), respectively, whereas white pigments are characterized by calcite, ghelenite and gypsum.
Classification of the Hyrcanian forest vegetation, Northern Iran
Authors: Gholizadeh Hamid , Naqinezhad Alireza , Chytrý Milan
Published: November 2019

Aims

To develop forest vegetation classification at the level of alliances and associations across the Hyrcanian ecoregion, Northern Iran, and to explore the effects of main environmental and geographic gradients on their distribution.

Location

Hyrcanian ecoregion, Northern Iran.

Methods

A database of 1,597 vegetation plots of mostly 400 m2 in size with a total of 802 vascular plant taxa was established, covering the whole geographic range of the Hyrcanian forests at altitudes ranging from −22 to 2,850 m a. s. l. An expert system was developed for automatic classification of vegetation plots into alliances and associations. Detrended correspondence analysis (DCA) and canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) were used to determine the most important environmental and geographic gradients affecting species composition.

Results

Twenty‐one associations and seven alliances of these forests, belonging to five orders and four classes, were defined. Among them, eleven associations and five alliances were described as new syntaxa. Alnion glutinosae and Smilaco excelsae‐Alnion barbatae, both distributed in the lowland belt, include swamp and wet forests, respectively. Parrotio persicae‐Carpinion betuli and Alnion subcordatae are respectively mesic and wet forests of the submontane belt. Solano kieseritzkii‐Fagion orientalis is a mesic beech forest in the montane belt, and finally, Quercion macrantherae, an open oak forest, and Centaureo hyrcanicae‐Carpinion orientalis, a dry hornbeam forest, occur in the upper‐montane belt. DCA and CCA analyses showed that the distribution of these alliances and associations is mainly related to altitude and mean annual temperature.

Conclusions

Based on our results and comparison between the Hyrcanian and European forests, we propose a new, comprehensive syntaxonomic scheme for the Hyrcanian forests, supported by a classification expert system. Unlike previous studies, we linked the classification system to that of EuroVegChecklist because, though this area is outside of Europe, its vegetation is very similar to that of the European temperate forest vegetation.
Attachment and emotion regulation: A person‐centred examination and relations with coping with rejection, friendship closeness, and emotional adjustment
Authors: Gardner Alex A. , Zimmer‐Gembeck Melanie J. , Campbell Shawna M.
Published: November 2019

Guided by attachment theory of emotion regulation (ER), the current study utilized a person‐centred approach to identify clusters of individuals that differed in their attachment representations and ER, and further examined individual differences in socio‐emotional functioning based on these profiles. Participants included 658 emerging adults (M = 19.9, SD = 2.7, 65.5% female) who completed surveys measuring responses to rejection, friendship closeness, and emotional maladjustment. Five clusters were identified: secure regulated (19%), disorganized unregulated (21%), anxious unregulated (16%), emotive (21%), and avoidant suppressor (22%). Each group displayed unique patterns, with the secure regulated group reporting significantly less withdrawal, retribution, rumination, and emotional maladjustment, and the disorganized unregulated group reporting the poorest functioning across all indicators. Significant cluster × sex effects were also found for friendship closeness. These findings suggest the importance of considering attachment and ER, and implications for attachment theory and development are discussed.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

Insecure attachment representations are a significant risk factor for poorer outcomes across development.

Hyperactivating and deactivating strategies are maladaptive responses to coping with emotional threat.

These strategies are an extension of the internal working model and positive correlates of poorer functioning.

What does this study add?

Previous studies have over‐relied on variable‐centred approaches to replicate findings of attachment theory.

A person‐centred approach allowing for the joint consideration of patterns of both attachment and ER strategies.

The identification of five novel profiles revealing unique differences in three important domains of functioning.
Thiel‐embalmed cadavers as a novel training model for ultrasound‐guided supine endoscopic combined intrarenal surgery
Authors: Veys Ralf , Verpoort Pieter , Van Haute Carl , Wang Zhan Tao , Chi Thomas , Tailly Thomas
Published: November 2019

Objective

To evaluate Thiel‐embalmed cadavers (TEC) as a training model for percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), more specifically for ultrasound (US)‐guided supine endoscopic combined intrarenal surgery (ECIRS).

Subjects and Methods

Thirteen urologists (nine experienced endourologists, four fellows/residents) performed an US‐guided supine ECIRS procedure on a TEC. The model was evaluated by way of a questionnaire (5‐point Likert scale). Descriptive statistical analysis was performed and results were graphically presented using divergent bar graphs.

Results

US images were appreciated as lifelike in all aspects. Although distention of the collecting system was not ideal in one out of three TEC, US visualisation of the distended calyces during puncture was good. Skin penetration was more difficult and less realistic in TEC, while kidney puncture and dilatation were deemed very realistic. Ureteric and collecting system anatomy and consistency were similar to real life, although the mucosa appeared paler. US needle guidance was perceived as excellent. Overall, needle puncture assessment was realistic and useful as a training tool. Overall quality and satisfaction of TEC in US‐guided supine ECIRS was good to excellent and comparable to a real‐life procedure. Overall appropriateness of the TEC model was considered excellent for both initial and advanced supine PCNL training.

Conclusion

Despite the minor drawbacks of tough skin and non‐ideal collecting system dilatation during ureteroscopy, the TEC model was considered good to excellent as a training model for US‐guided PCNL, in particular, US‐guided needle puncture of the kidney during supine ECIRS.
The anatomy and metabolome of the lymphatic system in the brain in health and disease
Authors: He Wenbo , Jing You , Wan Qianfen , Xiao Ke , Chen Kening , Lu Yuan , Li Liang , Tang Yajie , Deng Yunte , Yao Zhaohui , Yue Junqiu , Cao Gang
Published: November 2019

Recent studies have demonstrated that the brain is equipped with a lymphatic drainage system that is actively involved in parenchymal waste clearance, brain homeostasis and immune regulation. However, the exact anatomic drainage routes of brain lymph fluid (BLF) remain elusive, hampering the physiological study and clinical application of this system. In this study, we systematically dissected the anatomy of the BLF pathways in a rat model. Moreover, we developed a protocol to collect BLF from the afferent lymphatic vessels of deep cervical lymph nodes (dcLNs) and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the fourth ventricle. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy showed that BLF contains more metabolites than CSF, suggesting that BLF might be a more sensitive indicator of brain dynamics under physiological and pathological conditions. Finally, we identified several metabolites as potential diagnostic biomarkers for glioma, Parkinson's disease and CNS infectious diseases. Together, these data may provide insight into the physiology of the lymphatic system in the brain and into the clinical diagnosis of CNS disorders.
Cell‐line‐based assay for the toxicity/benefit analysis of lipopolysaccharides in plants
Authors: Kalpana Kriti , Yap Shen , Iyengar Revathi , Tsuji Moriya , Kawamura Akira
Published: November 2019

There are many immune‐boosting medicinal plants that can potently activate innate immune cells. Recent studies indicate that the active factors of some immune‐boosting plants are lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) of plant‐associated bacteria. However, little is currently known about the potential risk and benefit of LPSs in medicinal plants. To facilitate their characterization, we established a simple cell‐line‐based assay that can be used to screen the toxicity and benefit of LPSs in medicinal plants. The assay can distinguish endotoxic diphosphoryl lipid A (DPL) from beneficial monophosphoryl lipid A (MPL), which is a clinically used immunological adjuvant for vaccines. The established assay was used to characterize commercial supplements of Ashwagandha, which was shown to contain immunostimulatory LPSs. The study revealed that Ashwagandha activates macrophages in a manner similar to MPL. The current finding underscores the importance of further studies to characterize the LPSs in immune‐boosting medicinal plants.
Why Developmental Researchers Should Care About Biracial, Multiracial, and Multiethnic Youth
Authors: Nishina Adrienne , Witkow Melissa R.
Published: November 2019

The population of multiracial youth in the United States is expected to grow in the coming decades (exceeding 11% by 2060). In this article, we aim to convince child development researchers who do not usually examine race and ethnicity in their work to consider multiracial youth. We describe ways in which youth from more than one racial background might have common developmental experiences. First, we present a rationale for considering multiracial youth as their own numerical minority group. Then, we provide several illustrative examples demonstrating how studying multiracial youth might provide added insight about three interrelated areas: ethnic/racial identity development, social‐cognitive development, and interactions with peers. We also offer guidance on collecting information about children’s and adolescents’ multiracial status. We conclude by offering suggestions for researchers who seek to include multiracial youth in their work.
Pubertal BMI change and adult‐onset asthma in men: Population‐based cohort study in Sweden
Authors: Nwaru Bright I. , Ohlsson Claes , Bygdell Maria , Martikainen Jari , Kindblom Jenny M.
Published: November 2019

Background

The role of pubertal BMI change in adult‐onset concomitant asthma and allergic rhinitis is unknown.

Objective

We investigated the association of childhood and young adult BMI, and pubertal BMI changes with adult‐onset asthma, allergic rhinitis, and concomitant asthma and rhinitis in Swedish men.

Methods

The BMI Epidemiology Study in Gothenburg, Sweden, comprised of height and weight measures taken from school health records (6.5‐9.5 years) and during military conscription (17.5‐22 years) for all men born 1945‐1961 (n = 37 652). Age‐adjusted childhood BMI centred at 8 years and young adult BMI at 20 years were linked to high quality data on asthma and allergic rhinitis diagnoses from the Swedish National Patient Register.

Findings

High BMI (4th quartile vs the two median quartiles) at 8 years was associated with increased risk of concomitant asthma and allergic rhinitis (HR 1.45; 95% CI 1.00‐2.11). Overweight (HR 1.45; 95% CI 1.12‐1.89) and obesity (HR 1.95; 95% CI 1.08‐3.54) at 20 years were associated with increased risk of asthma without concomitant allergic rhinitis as main or auxiliary diagnosis. Pubertal BMI change showed a non‐linear association, so that both low (1st quartile vs the two median quartiles) and high pubertal BMI changes were associated with increased risk of asthma (low: HR 1.36; 95% CI 1.11‐1.68; high: HR 1.32; 95% CI 1.07‐1.63) and asthma without concomitant allergic rhinitis (low: HR 1.33; 95% CI 1.04‐1.69; high: HR 1.36; 95% CI 1.07‐1.74) as a main diagnosis.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Both low and high pubertal BMI changes are predictors of adult‐onset asthma in men, particularly asthma without concomitant allergic rhinitis. Primary prevention of adult‐onset asthma requires monitoring of changes in BMI during puberty.
Using Icare HOME tonometry for follow‐up of patients with open‐angle glaucoma before and after selective laser trabeculoplasty
Authors: Awadalla Mona S. , Qassim Ayub , Hassall Mark , Nguyen Thi T. , Landers John , Craig Jamie E.
Published: November 2019

Importance

Monitoring the results of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) on intraocular pressure (IOP) using a home rebound tonometry.

Background

To evaluate the role of Icare HOME tonometry in open‐angle glaucoma patients being treated with SLT.

Design

A clinic‐based prospective case study.

Participants

Fourteen eyes from 14 patients diagnosed with primary open‐angle glaucoma were recruited.

Methods

The trabecular meshwork of each eye was treated 360° with a frequency‐doubled Q‐switched Nd:YAG laser. IOP was measured four times a day for a week before and after SLT. On the day of SLT, the patients were required to measure the IOP in the evening to record any IOP spikes.

Main Outcome Measures

The use of Icare HOME in following up patients post‐laser trabeculoplasty without the need for clinic attendance.

Results

Icare HOME recorded a significant reduction of 5.12 mmHg in the mean IOP post‐SLT (95% confidence interval [CI] 3.75‐6.50 mmHg, P < .001). The maximum IOP was also reduced by 6.14 mmHg (95% CI 3.07‐9.21, P < .001) with no IOP spikes recorded post‐SLT. There was a reduction in IOP fluctuation post‐SLT by 1.07 mmHg (95% CI 0.24‐1.89 mmHg, P = .021). No adverse effects for using the Icare HOME were reported by the study participants.

Conclusions and Relevance

This methodology could be highly useful for facilitating safe follow‐up of patients residing in remote and rural areas, thus reducing healthcare cost with better information on IOP.
Association between cannabis and the eyelids: A comprehensive review
Authors: Nguyen Anne X. , Wu Albert Y.
Published: November 2019

Cannabis is the most consumed illicit drug worldwide. As more countries consider bills that would legalize adult use of cannabis, health care providers, including eye care professionals (ophthalmologists, optometrists), will need to recognize ocular effects of cannabis consumption in patients. There are only 20 studies on the eyelid effects of cannabis usage as a medical treatment or a recreational drug. These include ptosis induction, an “eyelid tremor” appearance and blepharospasm attenuation. Six articles describe how adequately dosed cannabis regimens could be promising medical treatments for blepharospasm induced by psychogenic factors. Fourteen articles report eyelid tremors in intoxicated drivers and ptosis as a secondary effect in cannabinoid animal experimental models. The exact mechanism of cannabinoids connecting cannabis to the eyelids is unclear. Further studies should be conducted to better understand the cannabinoid system in relation to the eyelid and eventually develop new, effective and safe therapeutic targets derived from cannabis.
Sexually dimorphic microglia and ischemic stroke
Authors: Kerr Nadine , Dietrich Dalton W. , Bramlett Helen M. , Raval Ami P.
Published: November 2019

Ischemic stroke kills more women compared with men thus emphasizing a significant sexual dimorphism in ischemic pathophysiological outcomes. However, the mechanisms behind this sexual dimorphism are yet to be fully understood. It is well established that cerebral ischemia activates a variety of inflammatory cascades and that microglia are the primary immune cells of the brain. After ischemic injury, microglia are activated and play a crucial role in progression and resolution of the neuroinflammatory response. In recent years, research has focused on the role that microglia play in this sexual dimorphism that exists in the response to central nervous system (CNS) injury. Evidence suggests that the molecular mechanisms leading to microglial activation and polarization of phenotypes may be influenced by sex, therefore causing a difference in the pro/anti‐inflammatory responses after CNS injury. Here, we review advances highlighting that sex differences in microglia are an important factor in the inflammatory responses that are seen after ischemic injury. We discuss the main differences between microglia in the healthy and diseased developing, adult, and aging brain. We also focus on the dimorphism that exists between males and females in microglial‐induced inflammation and energy metabolism after CNS injury. Finally, we describe how all of the current research and literature regarding sex differences in microglia contribute to the differences in poststroke responses between males and females.