bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Globalization of workforce
Authors: Rivera Manuel Antonio , Murphy Kevin S. , Khalilzadeh Jalayer
Published: July 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate hospitality study abroad experiences as an educational service in which the experience encompasses services that combine tangible and intangible actions that require students to move from the classroom to a practical setting. It empirically investigates the relationship between students’ study abroad, perceived value and perceived sacrifice (monetary and non-monetary) with their overall satisfaction and internationalization intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 57 students who had completed an international externship experience were contacted and invited to complete an online survey. The online survey gauged the student’s perception of their externship experience, the overall satisfaction and the internationalization intentions. The instrument also gathered demographic information about the participants. The proposed model was estimated by using partial least squares (PLS) path modeling.

Findings

The results indicate that PLS can be used to assess the theory of consumption value for study abroad experiential learning. The results of the hypotheses testing indicate that the value students get and give is a suitable and significant predictor of satisfaction and internationalization. However, students’ satisfaction with their study abroad internship does not predict future internationalization intentions.

Originality/value

This study sheds light on hospitality students’ perceived value, satisfaction and internationalization intentions when they complete a study abroad internship program. The results indicate that the value students get and give is an appropriate and important predictor of satisfaction and attitude toward international education.
SEC 2018 examination priorities
Authors: Angstadt Janet M. , Dickstein David , Goldstein Mark , Marshall Richard
Published: July 2018

Purpose

To analyze SEC Staff’s announced 2018 OCIE Examination priorities to provide insight to investment advisers and other regulated entities regarding areas of focus during SEC examinations.

Design/methodology/approach

This article discusses the US Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) Office of Compliance Inspections and Examinations (OCIE) published its examination priorities for 2018 (the “2018 Priorities Report”).

Findings

Given that OCIE’s examination priorities for 2017 were published before the beginning of the Trump administration, differences between the 2017 and the 2018 priorities provide important insights into the focus of examinations under SEC Chair Clayton. Investment advisers and other regulated entities should allocate resources towards their preparedness for the areas of focus identified in the 2018 Priorities Report.

Originality/value

This article contains valuable insight regarding the SEC’s 2018 OCIE examination priorities and practical guidance from industry experts.
Estimating transient populations of unmarked individuals at a migratory stopover site using generalized N‐mixture models
Authors: Kwon Eunbi , Houghton Lawrence M. , Settlage Robert E. , Catlin Daniel H. , Karpanty Sarah M. , Fraser James D.
Published: July 2018

Migration counts are popular indices used to monitor population trends over time. Advanced analytical methods for estimating abundance of unmarked, open populations now incorporate population growth models and simultaneously test for covariate effects on abundance and detection probability. However, estimating population abundance at a staging site is complicated by daily immigration and emigration of unmarked individuals.

We applied a set of generalized N‐mixture models to simulated count data to test their applicability for transient populations. Using simulated datasets, parameters were unbiased when the apparent survival rate varied within a season or was mis‐specified in a model, but not when the immigration or detection probability was mis‐specified.

With knowledge from the simulated data, we applied these models to daily counts of staging migratory shorebirds and estimated daily abundances accounting for variation in the detection and immigration rates. Daily counts of ruddy turnstones (Arenaria interpres) staging at Westhampton Island, New York, were collected during northward migration (1997–1999). We tested the effects of weather and tides on detection probability, and we modelled within‐season variation in immigration rates as a function of time.

Covariates affecting the detection probability differed among years, but tide height consistently was correlated with detection probability. Accounting for detection and immigration rates, the predicted maximum single‐day populations of ruddy turnstones were 172%, 165% and 129% of the observed counts for each year.

Synthesis and applications. Management and conservation plans for migratory species require abundance estimates that are near the true population size though they are difficult to obtain. Our study is the first empirical application of the generalized N‐mixture model that incorporates temporal trends in immigration and estimates daily abundance of a staging unmarked migratory population. Despite its inherent limitation, we suggest that the generalized N‐mixture model can estimate the abundance of transient populations with low individual heterogeneity when counts are intensively surveyed. Correct estimation of population sizes and the environmental factors affecting them can aid the conservation prioritization of species and staging sites. Moreover, the use of generalized N‐mixture models can improve our understanding of the environmental factors that shape migratory movements.
Plant species richness and functional groups have different effects on soil water content in a decade‐long grassland experiment
Authors: Fischer Christine , Leimer Sophia , Roscher Christiane , Ravenek Janneke , de Kroon Hans , Kreutziger Yvonne , Baade Jussi , Beßler Holger , Eisenhauer Nico , Weigelt Alexandra , Mommer Liesje , Lange Markus , Gleixner Gerd , Wilcke Wolfgang , Schröder Boris , Hildebrandt Anke
Published: July 2018

The temporal and spatial dynamics of soil water are closely interlinked with terrestrial ecosystems functioning. The interaction between plant community properties such as species composition and richness and soil water mirrors fundamental ecological processes determining above‐ground–below‐ground feedbacks. Plant–water relations and water stress have attracted considerable attention in biodiversity experiments. Yet, although soil scientific research suggests an influence of ecosystem productivity on soil hydraulic properties, temporal changes of the soil water content and soil hydraulic properties remain largely understudied in biodiversity experiments. Thus, insights on how plant diversity—productivity relationships affect soil water are lacking.

Here, we determine which factors related to plant community composition (species and functional group richness, presence of plant functional groups) and soil (organic carbon concentration) affect soil water in a long‐term grassland biodiversity experiment (The Jena Experiment).

Both plant species richness and the presence of particular functional groups affected soil water content, while functional group richness played no role. The effect of species richness changed from positive to negative and expanded to deeper soil with time. Shortly after establishment, increased topsoil water content was related to higher leaf area index in species‐rich plots, which enhanced shading. In later years, higher species richness increased topsoil organic carbon, likely improving soil aggregation. Improved aggregation, in turn, dried topsoils in species‐rich plots due to faster drainage of rainwater. Functional groups affected soil water distribution, likely due to plant traits affecting root water uptake depths, shading, or water‐use efficiency. For instance, topsoils in plots containing grasses were generally drier, while plots with legumes were moister.

Synthesis. Our decade‐long experiment reveals that the maturation of grasslands changes the effects of plant richness from influencing soil water content through shading effects to altering soil physical characteristics in addition to modification of water uptake depth. Functional groups affected the soil water distribution by characteristic shifts of root water uptake depth, but did not enhance exploitation of the overall soil water storage. Our results reconcile previous seemingly contradictory results on the relation between grassland species diversity and soil moisture and highlight the role of vegetation composition for soil processes.
Evaluation of mitochondrial respiratory function in rat cardiomyocytes under different glucose conditions, using an extracellular flux analysis method
Authors: Tsubone Hirokazu , Mutoh Tatsushi
Published: July 2018

We studied the effect of glucose supply on mitochondrial respiratory function (MRF) of neonatal rat cardiomyocytes, using a novel extracellular flux analysis. Fundamental respiratory parameters regarding oxygen consumption rate in mitochondria showed glucose concentration‐dependent changes, where a significant increase or decrease in these parameters was observed to be associated with glucose concentrations ranging between 10% and 1000% of the concentration used in standard medium (3151 mg/L), respectively. By contrast, the extracellular acidification rate, a parameter of anaerobic activity, was shown to decrease under low‐glucose conditions, whereas it increased after inhibiting complex V (ATP synthase) under the same glucose conditions. These findings provide a beneficial basis for various experimental studies on mitochondrial metabolism in cardiomyocytes.
Attachment between heterotrophic bacteria and microalgae influences symbiotic microscale interactions
Authors: Samo Ty J. , Kimbrel Jeffrey A. , Nilson Daniel J. , Pett‐Ridge Jennifer , Weber Peter K. , Mayali Xavier
Published: July 2018

The surface and surroundings of microalgal cells (phycosphere) are critical interaction zones but have been difficult to functionally interrogate due to methodological limitations. We examined effects of phycosphere‐associated bacteria for two biofuel‐relevant microalgal species (Phaeodactylum tricornutum and Nannochloropsis salina) using stable isotope tracing and high spatial resolution mass spectrometry imaging (NanoSIMS) to quantify elemental exchanges at the single‐cell level. Each algal species responded differently to bacterial attachment. In P. tricornutum, a high percentage of cells had attached bacteria (92%–98%, up to eight bacteria per alga) and fixed 64% more carbon with attached bacteria compared to axenic cells. In contrast, N. salina cells were less commonly associated with bacteria (42%–63%), harboured fewer bacteria per alga, and fixed 10% more carbon without attached bacteria compared to axenic cells. An uncultivated bacterium related to Haliscomenobacter sp. was identified as an effective mutualist; it increased carbon fixation when attached to P. tricornutum and incorporated 71% more algal‐fixed carbon relative to other bacteria. Our results illustrate how phylogenetic identity and physical location of bacteria and algae facilitate diverse metabolic responses. Phycosphere‐mediated, mutualistic chemical exchanges between autotrophs and heterotrophs may be a fruitful means to increase microalgal productivity for applied engineering efforts.
Difference or Ratio: Implications of Status Preference on Stagnation
Authors: Ono Yoshiyasu , Yamada Katsunori
Published: July 2018

We consider a dynamic macroeconomic model where households derive utility from wealth comparisons. Measure of relative affluence can be the ratio to, or the difference from, the social average. These two specifications lead to quite different equilibrium consequences: under the ratio specification full employment is always realised, whereas under the difference specification persistent shortage of aggregate demand can result. Using data of an experiment on status concern, we empirically find that the difference specification of relative affluence fits the data better than the ratio specification. Our work may help in understanding mechanisms behind recent stagnation in developed economies.
Exclusion or interests? Why females in elected office reduce petty and grand corruption
Authors: BAUHR MONIKA , CHARRON NICHOLAS , WÄNGNERUD LENA
Published: July 2018

Disappointed by the numerous failures of anticorruption reforms, international organisations, scholars and policy makers increasingly place their hopes on measures aimed at enhancing gender equality and in particular increasing the inclusion of female representatives in elected assemblies. Yet most studies to date focus on aggregate measures of corruption and fail to explain why the correlation between women's representation and levels of corruption occurs. Using newly collected regional‐level, non‐perception‐based measures of corruption, this study distinguishes between different forms of corruption and shows that the inclusion of women in local councils is strongly negatively associated with the prevalence of both petty and grand forms of corruption. However, the reduction in corruption is primarily experienced among women. This suggests that female representatives seek to further two separate political agendas once they attain public office: the improvement of public service delivery in sectors that tend to primarily benefit women; and the breakup of male‐dominated collusive networks.
Shrinkage of Food Materials During Drying: Current Status and Challenges
Authors: Mahiuddin Md , Khan Md. Imran H. , Kumar C. , Rahman M. M. , Karim M. A.
Published: July 2018

The structural heterogeneities of fruits and vegetables intensify the complexity to comprehend the interrelated physicochemical changes that occur during drying. Shrinkage of food materials during drying is a common physical phenomenon which affects the textural quality and taste of the dried product. The shrinkage of food material depends on many factors including material characteristics, microstructure, mechanical properties, and process conditions. Understanding the effect of these influencing factors on deformation of fruits and vegetables during drying is crucial to obtain better‐quality product. The majority of the previous studies regarding shrinkage are either experimental or empirical; however, such studies cannot provide a realistic understanding of the physical phenomena behind the material shrinkage. In contrast, theoretical modeling can provide better insights into the shrinkage that accompanies simultaneous heat and mass transfer during drying. However, limited studies have been conducted on the theoretical modeling of shrinkage of fruits and vegetables. Therefore, the main aim of this paper is to critically review the existing theoretical shrinkage models and present a framework for a theoretical model for the shrinkage mechanism. This paper also describes the effect of different drying conditions on material shrinkage. Discussions on how the diverse characteristics of fruits and vegetables affect shrinkage propagation is presented. Moreover, a comprehensive review of formulation techniques of shrinking models and their results are also presented. Finally, the challenges in developing a physics‐based shrinkage model are discussed.
Alteration to hippocampal volume and shape confined to cannabis dependence: a multi‐site study
Authors: Chye Yann , Lorenzetti Valentina , Suo Chao , Batalla Albert , Cousijn Janna , Goudriaan Anna E. , Jenkinson Mark , Martin‐Santos Rocio , Whittle Sarah , Yücel Murat , Solowij Nadia
Published: July 2018

Cannabis use is highly prevalent and often considered to be relatively harmless. Nonetheless, a subset of regular cannabis users may develop dependence, experiencing poorer quality of life and greater mental health problems relative to non‐dependent users. The neuroanatomy characterizing cannabis use versus dependence is poorly understood. We aimed to delineate the contributing role of cannabis use and dependence on morphology of the hippocampus, one of the most consistently altered brain regions in cannabis users, in a large multi‐site dataset aggregated across four research sites. We compared hippocampal volume and vertex‐level hippocampal shape differences (1) between 121 non‐using controls and 140 cannabis users; (2) between 106 controls, 50 non‐dependent users and 70 dependent users; and (3) between a subset of 41 controls, 41 non‐dependent users and 41 dependent users, matched on sample characteristics and cannabis use pattern (onset age and dosage). Cannabis users did not differ from controls in hippocampal volume or shape. However, cannabis‐dependent users had significantly smaller right and left hippocampi relative to controls and non‐dependent users, irrespective of cannabis dosage. Shape analysis indicated localized deflations in the superior‐medial body of the hippocampus. Our findings support neuroscientific theories postulating dependence‐specific neuroadaptations in cannabis users. Future efforts should uncover the neurobiological risk and liabilities separating dependent and non‐dependent use of cannabis.
Histological characteristics of ovarian follicle atresia in dairy cows with different milk production
Authors: Makarevich Alexander V. , Földešiová Martina , Pivko Juraj , Kubovičová Elena , Chrenek Peter
Published: July 2018

Follicle atresia in mammals is a universal phenomenon characteristic by degenerative morphological changes in granulosa and theca cells. The unfavourable effect of milk production in relation to fertility has been studied starting from the 70s of the last century; however, there is no unambiguous and persuasive data on association of ovarian atresia with milk yield of dairy cows. The aim of this study was to define histological signs of ovarian follicle atresia in dairy cows in relation to their milk production. The ovaries were recovered from slaughtered Holstein dairy cows assigned into two groups according to average level of annual milk production: Group 1 (n = 25)—low (≤8,000 kg/year) and Group 2 (n = 23)—high (≥8,000 kg/year). Atresia of antral follicles was evaluated on the basis of histopathological image (staining with basic fuchsine and toluidine blue) of nonovulated follicles, classified into five categories: an initial atresia, cystic atresia, obliterated atresia, atresia with luteinization of the granulosa and follicle structures of the fibrous body—corpus fibrosum. We found that the histopathological image of follicle atresia in groups of low‐milk‐ or high‐milk‐producing cows is essentially similar. Prevalent form of atresia in follicles of all experimental cows was the formation of fibrous bodies and obliterated atresia. The occurrence of fibrous bodies was significantly higher (55.44%) in low‐milk‐producing cows compared with high‐milk‐producing cows (34.61%). In the same way, the higher incidence of obliterated atresia was recorded in ovarian follicles from cows with the lower milk production (36.96%) compared to the cows with the higher milk production (25.48%). In contrast, ovaries from lower milk‐producing cows showed lower (p < 0.05) incidence of initial (p < 0.001) and cystic (p < 0.05) follicle atresia than ovaries from the higher milk‐producing cows. Our results show that cows in the higher lactation group showed more initial and cystic atresia, what may adversely affect the fertility of dairy cows.
Recommendations on the environment for hospitalised newborn infants from the French neonatal society: rationale, methods and first recommendation on neonatal intensive care unit design
Authors: Kuhn Pierre , Sizun Jacques , Casper Charlotte ,   the GREEN study group from the French Neonatal Society
Published: July 2018

Aim

Hospitalised newborn infants may be stressed due to inappropriate sensory stimuli and early separation from their families, that can negatively impact their neurodevelopment. The French Group of Reflection and Evaluation of the Environment of Newborns (GREEN) issues guidelines based on environmental neonatology and family‐centred care. The first recommendation focuses on private family rooms versus large shared rooms.

Methods

These guidelines are based on a systematic evaluation of the literature providing different grades of evidence. Internal and external reviews by multidisciplinary experts examined the scientific evidence of all recommendations. The literature search was performed for the period January 1, 2000 to January 1, 2016 with the keywords ‘single room’ or ‘private room’ and ‘neonatal intensive care unit’.

Results

A total of 25 studies were retained. Most studies reported a positive impact of private rooms on the health of newborn infants and satisfaction of families. Private rooms could lead to sensory deprivation if there is low parental involvement with limited presence and to reduced interaction among caregivers.

Conclusion

We recommend that neonatal units should mostly have private rooms. With this architectural design, we recommend supporting the staff's needs for changes in the organisation and philosophy of care and to provide improved family support.
LINKING TWO WORLDS? ENTREPRENEURIAL ORIENTATION IN PUBLIC ENTERPRISES: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND RESEARCH AGENDA
Authors: TREMML Timo
Published: July 2018

Contemporary public enterprises differ from their forebears. Today, they are more similar to private enterprises, receiving far more attention than previously, when privatization processes all over the world were in the spotlight. Furthermore, the broad research stream of entrepreneurship has so far neglected the consideration of public enterprises. To set a future research agenda, the author examines the dispersed literature using an integrative and organizing framework to identify major topics and research findings. This paper reviews articles that investigate the entrepreneurship in contemporary public enterprises. Despite the growing scholarly interest globally, this systematic literature review indicates there is no more than a loose connection between the literature streams of public entrepreneurship and corporate entrepreneurship. Specifically, the review shows that the multidimensional concept of entrepreneurial orientation has thus far been ignored, although autonomy plays a significant role in the literature review, namely in the context of the interference of the public owner. It also reveals other essential research gaps, such as the development of a modern theory of public enterprises. The linked research stream of public‐sector corporate entrepreneurship offers a broad area of scholarly research and should encourage further investigation.
Use of 5α‐reductase inhibitors for benign prostate hypertrophy and risk of high grade prostate cancer: a French population‐based study
Authors: Scailteux Lucie‐Marie , Rioux‐Leclercq Nathalie , Vincendeau Sébastien , Balusson Frédéric , Nowak Emmanuel , Oger Emmanuel ,   The Network of Pathologists in Brittany
Published: July 2018

Objective

To assess the association between 5α‐reductase inhibitor (5‐ARI) use and high grade (Gleason score 8–10) prostate cancer.

Patients and Methods

We conducted a population‐based nested matched case–control study using the French national health insurance database linked to data from all pathology laboratories in Brittany, France. Among 74 596 patients with ≥1 drug reimbursement for symptomatic benign prostate hypertrophy (BPH) between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2011, 767 incident prostate cancer cases between 1 January 2012 and 31 December 2013 were matched according to age and delay between the first observed delivery of drug for BPH (5‐ARIs, α‐blockers or phytotherapy) and diagnostic date of the case to five control patients, using an incidence density sampling design.

Results

A total of 963 patients (153 cases, 810 controls) had been exposed to 5‐ARIs. A significant heterogeneity (P = 0.005) was detected across cancer grades when estimating the association between prostate cancer and long‐term (≥2 years) 5‐ARI use vs no 5‐ARI exposure: adjusted conditional odds ratio 1.76 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.97–3.21) for Gleason score ≥8 and 0.64 (95% CI 0.44–0.93) for Gleason score < 8.

Conclusion

Our results indicate an increased risk of high grade and a decreased risk of low grade prostate cancer associated with 5‐ARI use. Patients treated for >2 years with 5‐ARIs should be informed about the increased risk of development of high grade disease.
THE CONVERGENCE IN PRODUCT‐LEVEL RELATIVE PRODUCTIVITY ACROSS PROVINCES
Authors: Martín Víctor , Minondo Asier
Published: July 2018

This paper uses highly disaggregated data to analyze the convergence process in product‐level relative productivity across Spanish provinces. Over the period 1988‐2013 there is a 53 per cent reduction in product‐level relative productivity differences across provinces. The speed of convergence in product‐level productivity is faster than in income per capita. Provinces that are geographically close, have strong ties and share similar factor endowments become more similar in product‐level relative productivities.
Anti‐tumour actions of cannabinoids
Authors: Hinz Burkhard , Ramer Robert
Published: July 2018

The endocannabinoid system has emerged as an important target for the treatment of many diverse diseases. In addition to the well‐established palliative effects of cannabinoids in cancer therapy, phytocannabinoids, synthetic cannabinoid compounds and inhibitors of endocannabinoid degradation have attracted attention as possible systemic anticancer drugs. Results emerging from preclinical studies suggest cannabinoids elicit effects at different levels of cancer progression, including inhibition of proliferation, neovascularization, invasion and chemoresistance, induction of apoptosis and autophagy as well as enhancement of tumour immune surveillance. Although the clinical use of cannabinoid receptor ligands is limited by their psychoactivity, non‐psychoactive compounds, such as cannabidiol, have gained attention due to preclinically established anticancer properties and a favourable risk‐to‐benefit profile. Thus, cannabinoids may complement the currently used collection of chemotherapeutic agents, as a broadly diversified option for cancer treatment, while counteracting some of their severe side effects.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on 8th European Workshop on Cannabinoid Research. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v176.10/issuetoc
Long noncoding RNA n339260 promotes vasculogenic mimicry and cancer stem cell development in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhao Xiulan , Sun Baocun , Liu Tieju , Shao Bing , Sun Ran , Zhu Dongwang , Zhang Yanhui , Gu Qiang , Dong Xueyi , Liu Fang , Zhao Nan , Zhang Danfang , Li Yanlei , Meng Jie , Gong Wenchen , Zheng Yanjun , Zheng Xu
Published: July 2018

Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) refers to the unique capability of aggressive tumor cells to mimic the pattern of embryonic vasculogenic networks. Cancer stem cells (CSC) represent a subpopulation of tumor cells endowed with the capacity for self‐renewal and multilineage differentiation. Previous studies have indicated that CSC may participate in the formation of VM. With the advance of high‐resolution microarrays and massively parallel sequencing technology, long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are suggested to play a critical role in tumorigenesis and, in particular, the development of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Currently, no definitive relationship between lncRNA and VM formation has been described. In the current study, we demonstrated that expression of the lncRNA, n339260, is associated with CSC phenotype in HCC, and n339260 level correlated with VM, metastasis, and shorter survival time in an animal model. Overexpression of n339260 in HepG2 cells was associated with a significant increase in CSC. Additionally, the appearance of VM and vascular endothelial (VE)‐cadherin, a molecular marker of VM, was also induced by n339260 overexpression. Using a short hairpin RNA approach, n339260 was silenced in tumor cells, and knockdown of n339260 was associated with reduced VM and CSC. The results of this study indicate that n339260 promotes VM, possibly by the development of CSC. The related molecular pathways may be used as novel therapeutic targets for the inhibition of HCC angiogenesis and metastasis.
Curcumin analog, GO‐Y078, overcomes resistance to tumor angiogenesis inhibitors
Authors: Shimazu Kazuhiro , Inoue Masahiro , Sugiyama Shunsuke , Fukuda Koji , Yoshida Taichi , Taguchi Daiki , Uehara Yoshihiko , Kuriyama Sei , Tanaka Masamitsu , Miura Masatomo , Nanjyo Hiroshi , Iwabuchi Yoshiharu , Shibata Hiroyuki
Published: July 2018

Tumor angiogenesis inhibition is one of the most potent strategies in cancer chemotherapy. From past clinical studies, inhibition of the vascular endothelial growth factor pathway successfully treats malignant tumors. However, vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors alone cannot cure tumors. Moreover, resistance to small molecule inhibitors has also been reported. Herein, we show the antiangiogenic potential of a newly synthesized curcumin analog, GO‐Y078, that possibly functions through inhibition of actin stress fiber formation, resulting in mobility inhibition; this mechanism is different from that of vascular endothelial growth factor inhibition. In addition, we examined the detailed mechanism of action of the antiangiogenesis potential of GO‐Y078 using human umbilical venous epithelial cells resistant to angiogenesis inhibitors (HUVEC‐R). GO‐Y078 inhibited the growth and mobility of HUVEC‐R at 0.75 μmol/L concentration. Expression analyses by microarray and RT‐PCR showed that expressions of genes including that of fibronectin 1 were significantly suppressed. Among these genes, fibronectin 1 is abundantly expressed and, therefore, seems to be a good target for GO‐Y078. In a knockdown experiment using Si‐oligo of fibronectin 1 (FN1), FN1 expression was decreased to half of that in mock experiments as well as GO‐Y078. Knockdown of FN1 resulted in the suppression of HUVEC‐R growth at 24 hours after treatment. Fibronectin is a key molecule contributing to angiogenesis that could be inhibited by GO‐Y078. Thus, resistance to vascular endothelial growth factor inhibition can be overcome using GO‐Y078.
5‐hydroxymethylfurfural‐ and fluorescein‐fused fluorescence probe of mast cells (RBL‐2H3): Synthesis, photophysical properties, and bioimaging
Authors: Huang Limin , Wei Di , Wu Zibo , Hou Yajing , Xie Yitong , Liu Zhenru , Wang Cheng , Che Delu , Lei Yibo , He Huaizhen
Published: July 2018

A fluorescent probe (Fluo‐HMF) was developed via introduction of a furfural moiety into the fluorescein molecular skeleton, aiming at specially labeling cell membrane of mast cells. To illustrate its specificity, we designed and synthesized a series of fluorescent compounds based on fluorescein molecular skeleton. The fluorescent properties of Fluo‐HMF were investigated, which were in accordance with theoretical calculations. Compared with other fluorescein derivatives, Fluo‐HMF could specially label RBL‐2H3 cells. The results suggested that Fluo‐HMF could be used as a fluorescent probe for bioimaging on some related research of allergic mechanism.
Identification and biological evaluation of glycol diaryl ethers as novel anti‐cancer agents through structure‐based optimization of crizotinib
Authors: Liu Shasha , Liu Xiaoxia , Zhang Xun , Shi Meiyun , Wang Hecheng , Liu Yajun
Published: July 2018

Crizotinib, a drug for anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) positive and c‐ros oncogene 1 receptor tyrosine kinase (ROS1) positive non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), was structurally optimized via a strategy of structure‐based fragment replacing. Computational study showed it was beneficial for interaction of crizotinib and ALK to increase the distance between pyridyl ring and phenyl ring in crizotinib, and thus, a series of novel glycol diaryl ethers were synthesized. The in vitro anti‐tumor activity of synthesized compounds was studied in NSCLC cell line H2228 and neurobalstoma cell line SH‐SY5Y. Among the synthesized compounds, 9e exhibits stronger anti‐cancer activity than crizotinib toward H2228 cell line with an IC50 value of 0.22 μM. Molecular docking indicated that a longer chain between pyridyl ring and phenyl ring enabled molecule to have new interaction with a neighboring small hydrophobic pocket.
Immune-bone interplay in the structural damage in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Komatsu N , Takayanagi H
Published: July 2018

The immune and bone systems maintain homeostasis by interacting closely with each other. Rheumatoid arthritis is a pathological consequence of their interplay, as activated T cell immune responses result in osteoclast-mediated bone erosion. An imbalance between forkhead box protein 3 (Foxp3)+ regulatory T (Treg) cells and T helper type 17 (Th17) cells is often linked with autoimmune diseases, including arthritis. Th17 cells contribute to the bone destruction in arthritis by up-regulating receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-Β ligand (RANKL) on synovial fibroblasts as well as inducing local inflammation. Studies on the origin of Th17 cells in inflammation have shed light on the pathogenic conversion of Foxp3+ T cells. Th17 cells converted from Foxp3+ T cells (exFoxp3 Th17 cells) comprise the most potent osteoclastogenic T cell subset in inflammatory bone loss. It has been suggested that osteoclastogenic T cells may have developed originally to stop local infection in periodontitis by inducing tooth loss. In addition, Th17 cells also contribute to the pathogenesis of arthritis by modulating antibody function. Antibodies and immune complexes have attracted considerable attention for their direct role in osteoclastogenesis, and a specific T cell subset in joints was shown to be involved in B cell antibody production. Here we summarize the recent advances in our understanding of the immune-bone interplay in the context of the bone destruction in arthritis.
Correlation between attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder, its pharmacotherapy and thyroid dysfunction: A nationwide population‐based study in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Po‐Hao , Shyu Yu‐Chiau , Tsai Meng‐Yun , Lee Sheng‐Yu , Yang Kang‐Chung , Yang Chun‐Ju , Lee Tung‐Liang , Wang Liang‐Jen
Published: July 2018

Objective

The aim of this study was to examine the comorbid rates of thyroid dysfunction among patients with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and the general population. We further examined whether pharmacotherapy affects ADHD patients’ risk of developing thyroid dysfunction.

Design and Measurement

We recruited 75 247 newly diagnosed ADHD patient and 75 247 healthy controls between January 1999 and December 2011 from the National Health Insurance database in Taiwan. We compared hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism and other common paediatric psychiatric diseases between ADHD patients and controls. We carried out logistic regression analysis to identify an independent factor for predicting thyroid dysfunction. Furthermore, we analysed the time sequence of the diagnosis and the risk of developing a thyroid disorder after receiving pharmacotherapy.

Results

Compared to the control group, the ADHD group had higher comorbidity rates of both hyperthyroidism (1.1% of ADHD vs 0.7% of controls, aOR: 1.72, P < 0.001) and hypothyroidism (0.6% of ADHD vs 0.2% of controls, aOR: 2.23, P < 0.001). Of the ADHD patients with comorbid thyroid dysfunction, about two‐thirds and half of patients were diagnosed with ADHD prior to their diagnosis of hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, respectively. Furthermore, pharmacotherapy had no significant influence on the risk of developing hyperthyroidism (aHR: 1.09, P = 0.363) or hypothyroidism (aHR: 0.95, P = 0.719) among ADHD patients.

Conclusion

Patients with ADHD had greater comorbid rates with thyroid dysfunction than the control subjects, but pharmacotherapy for treating ADHD did not affect thyroid dysfunction later in life. However, these findings should be further verified using a clinical cohort with comprehensive laboratory assessment in future.
Family dynamics in transthyretin‐related familial amyloid polyneuropathy Val30Met: Does genetic risk affect family functioning?
Authors: Lopes Alice , Rodrigues Carla , Fonseca Isabel , Sousa Alexandra , Branco Margarida , Coelho Teresa , Sequeiros Jorge , Freitas Paula
Published: July 2018

Adult‐onset, chronic, genetic diseases like transthyretin‐related familial amyloid polyneuropathy Val30Met (TTR‐FAP Val30Met), have a major psychosocial impact not only on patients, but also on families. Genetic risk may therefore be an increased factor in psychosocial impact of the disease on these families' functioning. To evaluate impact of genetic risk, a study was conducted to perceive the impact of the illness on families' functioning. Groups of TTR‐FAP Val30Met patients, pre‐symptomatic carriers, partners and patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), a non‐hereditary disease, were studied. Sample included 190 adults: 87 patients and 28 pre‐symptomatic carriers for TTR‐FAP Val30Met, 41 partners and 34 patients with MS. Family Adaptability and Cohesion Scale IV (FACES IV) and a social‐demographic questionnaire were applied. No significant differences were observed between patients and pre‐symptomatic carriers and both these and their partners regarding cohesion and flexibility. MS patients scored significantly higher in median scores for balanced scales. Satisfaction and communication levels were also lower in patients with TTR‐FAP Val30Met than with MS. Family functioning was perceived as balanced by most TTR‐FAP Val30Met patients and pre‐symptomatic carriers. These families may be considered as mostly healthy. Difficulties in family communication should be taken into account when caring for these families.
Predicting sequential bilateral cochlear implantation performance in postlingually deafened adults; A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Smulders Yvette E. , Hendriks Thomas , Stegeman Inge , Eikelboom Robert H. , Sucher Cathy , Upson Gemma , Chester Browne Ronel , Jayakody Dona , Santa Maria Peter L. , Atlas Marcus D. , Friedland Peter L.
Published: July 2018

Objective

To identify which preoperative patient characteristics influence sequential bilateral cochlear implantation performance and to create a statistical model that predicts benefit.

Design

Multicentre retrospective cohort study.

Setting

All patients were operated in four academic teaching hospitals in Perth, Australia, and followed up by audiologists of the Ear Science Institute Australia.

Participants

A total of 92 postlingually deafened adult patients who had undergone sequential cochlear implantations between 19 June 1990 and 14 March 2016 were included. Patients were excluded if the 12‐month follow‐up consonant‐nucleus‐consonant (CNC) phoneme score was missing.

Main outcome measure

The effect of 18 preoperative factors on the CNC phoneme score in quiet (at 65 dB SPL) with the second cochlear implant (CI2) one year after implantation.

Results

Two factors were positively correlated to speech understanding with CI2: Wearing a hearing aid (HA) before receiving CI2 (r = 0.46, P = 0.00) and the maximum CNC phoneme score with the first CI (CI1) (r = 0.21, P = 0.05). Two factors were negatively correlated: the length of hearing loss before CI2 in the second implanted ear (r = −0.25, P = 0.02) and preoperative pure tone average (PTA) (0.5, 1, 2 kHz) before CI2 in the second implanted ear (r = −0.27, P = 0.01). The following model could be created: predicted CNC phoneme score with CI2 (%) = 16 + (44 * HA use before CI2 (yes)) − (0.22 * length of hearing loss before CI2 (years)) + (0.23 * CNC phoneme score with CI1 (%)). Because the effect of HA use before implantation played such a major role, we also created a model after exclusion of the HA factor: Predicted CNC phoneme score with CI2 (%) = 82 − (0.17 * length of hearing loss before CI2 (years)) − (0.27 * PTA in second implanted ear before CI2 (0.5, 1, 2 kHz)) + (0.20 * CNC phoneme score with CI1 (%)).

Conclusion

Advanced age or a long interval between implantations does not necessarily lead to poor CI2 results. Patients who are successful HA users before CI2, who have a low PTA before CI2, a high CNC phoneme score with CI1 and a limited length of hearing loss before CI2, are likely to be successful CI2 recipients.
Empirical selection between least‐cost and current‐flow designs for establishing wildlife corridors in Gabon
Authors: Vanthomme Hadrien P. A. , Nzamba Brave S. , Alonso Alfonso , Todd Angelique F.
Published: July 2018

Corridors are intended to increase species survival by abating landscape fragmentation resulting from the conversion of natural habitats into human‐dominated matrices. Conservation scientists often rely on 1 type of corridor model, typically the least‐cost model or current‐flow model, to construct a linkage design, and their choice is not usually based on theory or empirical evidence. We developed a method to empirically confirm whether corridors produced by these 2 models are used by target species under current landscape conditions. We applied this method in the Gamba landscape between 2 national parks in southwestern Gabon. We collected signs of presence of African forest elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis), forest buffalo (Syncerus caffer nanus), and 2 apes, western lowland gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) and central chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes troglodytes), on transects. We used patch‐occupancy models to identify least‐cost and current‐flow corridors for these 4 species. On average, 28.7% of current‐flow corridors overlapped with least‐cost corridors, confirming that the choice of corridor model can affect the location of the resulting linkage design. We validated these corridors by monitoring signs and examining camera detections on new transects within and outside modeled corridors. Current‐flow corridors performed better than least‐cost corridors for elephants, whereas the opposite was found for buffalo and apes. Locations of the highest priority corridors for the 3 taxa did not overlap, and only 18.3% of their combined surface was common among 2 species. We used centrality metrics to calculate the average contribution of corridor pixels to landscape connectivity and derived an index that can be used to prioritize corridors. As a result, we recommend protecting at least 17.4% of the land surface area around Gamba town to preserve the preferred travel routes of the target species.
Soft Order Commitment in Supply Chains: Role of Penalties and Rationing Rules
Authors: Tian Zhili , Tang Sammi Yu , Kouvelis Panos (Panos)
Published: July 2018

In some industries (e.g., semiconductors, electronics, and agribusiness), buyers place noncommitted orders (called soft orders) to manufacturers in an effort to guide the manufacturer's production decisions. After the buyers know their own demand, they place purchase orders (called firm orders). These orders are often placed very close to the production start time or even after the production start time so that it is not possible for the manufacturer to revise its production schedule. The discrepancies between the soft order and the firm order often result in high excess inventories at the manufacturer. Without any commitment related to the soft orders by the buyers and the production by the manufacturer, the soft orders are often not effective. We hence propose a penalty contract, through which the buyers pay a penalty for canceling some portion of their soft orders. This contract can perfectly coordinate the decentralized supply chain of one manufacturer and multiple buyers and can lead to Pareto improvement in profits relative to the wholesale price contract for all firms in the supply chain. Our results indicate that it is more likely for the contract to achieve coordination and Pareto improvement when the manufacturer allocates the supply in proportion to the firm orders than when it allocates the supply according to the soft orders. We also illustrate the contract by using the data from a leading manufacturer in the industry.
Measures used to quantify participation in childhood disability and their alignment with the family of participation‐related constructs: a systematic review
Authors: Adair Brooke , Ullenhag Anna , Rosenbaum Peter , Granlund Mats , Keen Deb , Imms Christine
Published: July 2018

Aim

We aimed to identify measures used to assess the participation of disabled children and to map the measures’ content to the family of participation‐related constructs (fPRC) to inform future research and practice.

Method

Six databases were searched to identify measures used to assess participation in health, psychology, and education research. Included studies involved children aged 0 to 18 years with a permanent impairment or developmental disability and reported use of a quantitative measure of participation. A second search sought relevant literature about each identified measure (including published manuals) to allow a comprehensive understanding of the measure. Measurement constructs of frequently reported measures were then mapped to the fPRC.

Results

From an initial yield of 32 767 articles, 578 reported one or more of 118 participation measures. Of these, 51 measures were reported in more than one article (our criterion) and were therefore eligible for mapping to the fPRC. Twenty‐one measures quantified aspects of participation attendance, 10 quantified aspects of involvement as discrete scales, and four quantified attendance and involvement in a manner that could not be separated.

Interpretation

Improved understanding of participation and its related constructs is developing rapidly; thoughtful selection of measures in research is critical to further our knowledge base.

What this paper adds

The fPRC can support our rapidly evolving and expanding understanding of participation.

Instruments selected to measure participation do not always align with emerging concepts.

Matching research aims to a chosen measure's content will improve understanding of participation.

Opportunities exist to develop validated participation measures, especially self‐reported measures of involvement.
Examining Undergraduate Students’ Attitudes toward Business Statistics in the United States and China
Authors: Wang Ping , Palocsay Susan W. , Shi Jinyan , White Marion M.
Published: July 2018

The rapid growth of analytics is bringing more attention to quantitative core curriculum requirements in undergraduate business programs. Statistical knowledge and skills are unequivocally recognized as essential cornerstone of business analytics. Furthermore, educational research has shown that academic performance in statistics classes is related to the attitudes that students bring to the course. This article assesses the reliability and validity of the Survey of Attitudes toward Statistics (SATS) in measuring noncognitive dimensions of attitudes among undergraduate business students. Sample data from U.S. and Chinese introductory business statistics classes were collected and analyzed to learn more about this aspect of student engagement across business schools located in countries with substantially different levels of success in international mathematics achievement testing, as well as differing cultural and educational practices. Results show that the six‐factor model structure of the SATS provides a good fit in both populations, with students entering business statistics holding only slightly positive attitudes toward the subject. Significant distinctions between four of the six attitude components were identified. Implications of measuring and improving these attitudes are discussed. Business statistics instructors are encouraged to use the survey as a standardized instrument to measure effects of interventions and make evidence‐based pedagogical decisions.