bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Valuing security of supply: does experience matter?
Authors: von Selasinsky Alexander , Schubert Daniel Kurt Josef , Meyer Thomas , Möst Dominik
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The paper aims to analyse whether experiencing a supply interruption affects the valuation of security of electricity supply.

Design/methodology/approach

A blackout in Munich, Germany, in November 2012 is utilised as a natural experiment by conducting a contingent valuation survey around two months after the event. The characteristics of the supply interruption allow for distinguishing between households that were affected by the blackout and those who were not. This provides the opportunity to compare the willingness to pay (WTP) for avoiding and the willingness to accept (WTA) for enduring a supply interruption between affected and non-affected Munich households.

Findings

The results show that households who were affected by the outage had a higher WTP for avoiding a hypothetical supply interruption. Although affected households also had a higher WTA for enduring an outage, the WTA-differences between the two groups are not statistically significant. Furthermore, the results indicate that experience with power outages can increase the perceived relevance of the policy objective “security” at the expense of the objective “environmental sustainability”.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the literature in three general respects. First, the assessment of the relationship between outage experience and the valuation of supply security is based on a natural experiment which avoids most of the shortcomings of previous studies. Second, the paper uses both the WTP and the WTA measure to approximate the valuation of supply security and discusses the differences in their outcomes. Third, these monetary valuations are complemented and compared with general attitudes towards a reliable electricity system.
Study and analyze the development of China coal mine safety management
Authors: Wei Lian-jiang , Hu Jian-kun , Luo Xin-rong , Liang Wei
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to devise novel methods for effectively reducing China’s coal mining accidents via analysis of the relation between coal mine safety production and social factors.

Design/methodology/approach

The variations and characteristics of the safety production for coal mines in China from 1949 to 2013 are studied via induction and statistical analysis of data from the perspective of mortality rate per million tons, raw coal output and death tolls. It is analyzed that the relationship between coal mine safety production level and social economic, safety investment via SPSS.

Findings

Analysis of the coal mine safety management evolution across the 64 years after the founding of China demonstrates that China’s coal mine safety management evolution is partitioned into four stages, and there is the coupling relation between coal mine safety production and structure the of coal industry, government supervision and safety investment. By discussing the similarity between China and America in coal mine safety management evolution, it is found that the rapid increase in the number of accidents during the transformation from agricultural to industrial society is not accidental.

Practical implications

The suggestions in this paper are helpful to improve the current safety situation in China’s coal mines and provide management experience to other coal mining countries.

Originality/value

Based on present and future socioeconomic development, it is proposed that the coal mine safety situation can be further enhanced by properly adjusting the structure of the coal industry, strengthening supervision and ensuring safety investment.
Performance-based contracting: contextual factors and the degree of buyer supplier integration
Authors: Glas Andreas H. , Kleemann Florian C.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Performance-based contracting (PBC) links pricing with performance objectives in service business relationships. Although interest in PBC has surged recently, there is still great uncertainty about the risks, opportunities and challenges. This paper aims to provide a deeper understanding of the contextual factors of PBC and how providers assess them.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper includes conducting a multiple-case study evaluation and analyzes data from 21 cases. Risks, opportunities and contextual factors are identified through interviews, and the case data are analyzed with several methods, including Borda count and cross-tabulation.

Findings

The results show that the most important factors of PBC are clear responsibilities, clear performance indicators, transparent measurement, cooperative culture and a precise utilization profile of core assets. Surprisingly, incentives are of minor perceived relevance. The analysis supports the differentiation of PBC into two subcategories: lean (low integrated) and customized (high integrated) PBC.

Research limitations/implications

While many studies stress the uniqueness of PBC in accordance with the “one-size-does-not-fit-all” mantra, this research differentiates the standardized PBC from a customized one. The findings face the limitations of case study research and qualitative data analysis in general.

Practical implications

Practitioners are provided with guidance to develop either a customized or a standardized PBC.

Originality/value

Previously, broader empirical insights have still been rare; thus, this paper contributes to the PBC literature, as it provides data from multiple cross-industry cases. The findings (e.g. the minor relevance of incentives) stand in contrast to parts of the academic literature and contribute also to the wider service management field.
The effects of goods-related and service-related B2B brand images on customer loyalty
Authors: Cassia Fabio , Cobelli Nicola , Ugolini Marta
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Previous research has shown that business-to-business (B2B) brand image has positive effects on customer loyalty. However, the results have been inconsistent because they have highlighted that B2B brand image has either direct or mediated effects on loyalty. Drawing on the framework of service transition, this study aims to develop and test a model that reconciles previous findings. This model suggests that goods-related and service-related B2B brand images coexist in customers’ perceptions and impact customer loyalty in different ways.

Design/methodology/approach

A model was developed and estimated using covariance-based structural equation modeling. The data used in the analysis were collected through a survey in the Italian health-care industry, focusing on the relationship between hearing aid manufacturers and audiologists.

Findings

Both goods-related and service-related B2B brand images have positive effects on loyalty. However, while the effects of goods-related image on loyalty are fully mediated by satisfaction, service-related image has both direct and mediated effects on loyalty.

Research limitations/implications

This study reconciles previous work arguing that B2B brand image has either direct or mediated effects on loyalty by focusing on the transition from a goods-oriented logic for branding to service branding. In particular, the analysis focuses on the role of the brand in the co-creation process, suggesting that a service-related brand image reflects the value unfolding over time through co-created experiences. However, additional research needs to be conducted in other industries before the results can be generalized.

Practical implications

The findings provide managers with insights for the co-creation of their B2B brand images. In particular, the results urge managers to integrate the traditional goods-oriented approach to branding with service branding, showing that enriching B2B brand image with service-related aspects will have a direct and positive effect on loyalty. However, brand image cannot be created or changed unilaterally by the firm as it is determined by the customer based on co-creation experiences.

Originality/value

This is the first study to explicitly and separately consider the effects of goods-related and service-related aspects of B2B brand image on loyalty. It also is one of the first studies to apply service logic to B2B branding issues.
When shoppers don’t have enough self-control resources: applying the strength model of self-control
Authors: Yim Mark Yi-Cheon
Published: April 2017

Purpose

This study aims to empirically test and explain shoppers’ purchase behavior in a retail store by applying the strength model of self-control.

Design/methodology/approach

A pretest was used to identify shoppers’ purchase change behavior based on 500 average shoppers, followed by a main study based on another set of 166 average shoppers, to test the proposed hypotheses.

Findings

As shoppers stay shorter in a grocery store, they tend to change their purchase decisions more frequently. In addition, this study results reveal that three behavioral variables, namely, shoppers’ changed purchase decisions, shopping duration and walking distance, significantly predict their overall spending.

Research limitations/implications

The findings from the current study are limited to a designated superstore conducted for this study only. From a managerial viewpoint, the author suggests that giving shoppers more choice options and encouraging them to spend more time and walk further in a grocery store, depleting their self-control resources, can be an effective strategy in increasing sales. Yet, excessive efforts for these ideas can also cause shoppers’ massive returns once they return to the normal state with sufficient self-control resources.

Originality/value

The current study empirically confirms the applicability of the strength model of self-control through field studies designed to increase the external validity of the findings. To the best of the author’s knowledge, this research is the first to apply and empirically test the strength model of self-control in the field to explain shopper behavior and highlight the importance of understanding shoppers’ changed purchase decisions.
Occupational dream pursuit: decision making and consumption behaviors
Authors: Kemp Elyria , Borders Aberdeen Leila
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the stages involved in occupational dream pursuit (ODP). In this study, dreams are studied in the context of life-changing, occupational endeavors. The judgment and decision-making that fuels the process and the consumption motives that appear throughout the various stages of the journey are examined through the narratives of individuals living out their career-related dreams.

Design/methodology/approach

Open-ended interviews were conducted with individuals who were embarking on a life-changing career attainment experience. The narratives of these informants uncovered psychological, social and behavioral aspects of the dream pursuit process.

Findings

Through the informants’ narratives, common themes emerged with respect to the ODP journey, and these themes offered a fluid interpretation of the stages involved in the dream pursuit process: revelation, inciting action, development, maintenance and evolution. At each stage, specific consumption motives and behaviors predominate. These themes, including the consumption, psychological and developmental processes that take place at each stage, are discussed through the narratives of the informants.

Research limitations/implications

This study highlights the role of positive emotions, personal growth, consumption motives and behaviors in ODP.

Originality/value

Dreams give individuals a sense of purpose and being. Although conventional wisdom acknowledges the importance of dream actualization, limited behavioral research has explored the nuances of ODP with regard to decision-making and consumption.
Sadism in sexual homicide offenders: identifying distinct groups
Authors: Reale Kylie , Beauregard Eric , Martineau Melissa
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether it is possible to identify different types of sadistic offenders within a sample of sexual homicide offenders (SHOs).

Design/methodology/approach

The study addresses this research question through the use of two-step hierarchal cluster analysis and binary logistic regression utilizing a sample of 350 cases of sexual homicide from Canada.

Findings

Results from cluster analysis show that three groups emerge: a non-sadistic group, a mixed group that show evidence of some sadistic behavior and a sadistic group that have high levels of sadistic behavior. Additionally, the sadistic cluster was more likely to destroy or remove evidence at the crime scene than the mixed and non-sadistic cluster and was more likely to leave the victim’s body at a deserted location than the non-sadistic cluster.

Originality/value

This is the first study to examine the dimensionality of sadism within a sample of SHOs.
What makes a difference? Evaluating the key distinctions and predictors of sexual and non-sexual offending among male and female juvenile offenders
Authors: Fox Bryanna
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the ability of a comprehensive set of covariates to distinguish and predict juvenile sex offenders (JSOs) from non-sexual juvenile offenders (NSJOs) using demographic traits, criminality covariates, childhood trauma, and psychopathologies in a sample of male and female juvenile offenders in the USA.

Design/methodology/approach

A multivariate binary logistic regression will be conducted on a total of 64,329 juvenile offenders in Florida to determine what demographic, criminal history, childhood traumas, and psychopathologies make a difference in identifying sexual and NSJOs while controlling for the other key predictors in the model.

Findings

Results indicate that having an earlier age of criminal onset and more felony arrests, experiencing sexual abuse or being male, having low empathy, high impulsivity, depression, and psychosis all significantly increase the risk of sexual vs non-sexual offending among the male and female juvenile offenders, even while controlling for all other key covariates in the analysis.

Originality/value

This study uncovered many new findings regarding the key distinguishing traits of juvenile sex offending vs non-sexual offending, using a comprehensive list of predictors, a large sample of male and female offenders, and a rigorous statistical methodology.
Teaching older people internet skills to minimize grey digital divides
Authors: Mubarak Farooq , Nycyk Michael
Published: April 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to explore how older people in developed and developing countries are affected by the grey digital divide. It argues country type and culture influence older people’s willingness to access and learn internet skills. Using the knowledge from researchers informs policy, funding and delivery of appropriate skilling to minimize this divide.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature search using specific keywords to locate digital divide research, specifically pertaining to older people across country types.

Findings

Despite increased internet access and affordability, older people still face challenges in learning internet skills. Country type, economic challenges and cultural beliefs need to be considered in minimizing the grey divide. Governments recognize the importance of funding such teaching but evidence-based research must continue to inform policy to maximize funding and solve the many physical age and cultural issues affecting older people’s access to internet skills learning.

Originality/value

This paper argues that research in developing countries into minimizing the grey digital divide is a crucial undertaking. As the internet continues growing in developing countries, finding solutions that consider cultural and age differences issues is crucial to the success of having internet literate societies that have growing populations of older people seeking to use it.
The governance of innovation from a European perspective, social articulation and transmission of knowledge
Authors: Moonen Piet
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address the key developments concerning innovation at universities at a macro level. It describes the key trends and changes in the governance of universities and the transformation of universities into organizational actors. This also affects the governance on academic research in the sense that it leads to a gradual evolution of the specific public science system in which research is being initiated and executed.

Design/methodology/approach

Cultural evolution involves social articulation and transmission of knowledge. What makes a culture distinctive is how it distributes interactions in the information-space.

Findings

The innovation policies of the European Union play a noticeable, but not yet dominant, role in the EU member states, at least not in the large member states. The wide gap between the North of Europe and the South and East of Europe in innovative performance is – despite the innovation policies of the European Union – still difficult to overcome.

Originality/value

The actual innovative performance of ten European countries has been evaluated. Northern European countries show a higher score on the Innovation Index, whereas countries in Southern Europe score relatively low. Can we relate this difference to cultural factors?
The effects of empowering leadership on psychological well-being and job engagement
Authors: Gyu Park Jong , Sik Kim Jeong , Yoon Seung Won , Joo Baek-Kyoo
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of empowering leadership on employees’ psychological well-being (PWB) and job engagement. This study also examines the mediating role of psychological capital (PsyCap) in these relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

The study draws on survey data (n=285) from employees in eight large-sized firms in South Korea. Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to examine the convergent validity of the construct measures. Structural equation modeling was used to estimate the fit of the hypothesized model to the data.

Findings

The authors found that empowering leadership influenced job engagement both directly and indirectly through PsyCap. Employees’ PsyCap fully mediated the relationship between empowering leadership and employees’ PWB, while partially mediating the relationship between empowering leadership and job engagement.

Originality/value

This is the first empirical study to examine the effects of empowering leadership behaviors of leaders on both PWB and PsyCap, which are positive psychological resources of employees. The study has also provided empirical evidence for the importance of PsyCap, which plays a positive role in the ability of employees to manage their overall feelings in achievement situations and in employees’ engagement in the workplace.
The effects of perceived authentic leadership and core self-evaluations on organizational citizenship behavior
Authors: Joo Baek-Kyoo , Jo Sung Jun
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of the perceived authentic leadership of supervisors and employees’ core self-evaluations on their organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) and to examine the role of psychological empowerment as a partial mediator of those relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional survey was used to obtain individual perceptions from employees working in one of the biggest companies in Korea. Data from 374 samples was analyzed. Construct validity of each measurement model is examined using confirmatory factor analysis and the hypothesized structural model is tested by structural equation modeling.

Findings

The authors found that perceived authentic leadership, core self-evaluation, and employees’ psychological empowerment had significant impact on employees’ OCB, accounting for 58 percent of the variance in OCB. In addition, 54 percent of the variance in psychological empowerment was explained by authentic leadership and core self-evaluations, partially mediating the relationship between authentic leadership and OCB and the relationship between core self-evaluations and OCB.

Originality/value

Positivity is instrumental in driving intrinsic motivation for work and voluntary devotion to colleagues and organizations. This study contributed to the emerging research branch of management and organizational psychology such as positive organization scholarship and positive organizational behavior by exploring the relationship among the relevant constructs. More specifically, the authors found that positive contextual factor (i.e. authentic leadership), positive personality factor (i.e. core self-evaluations), and positive work experience (i.e. psychological empowerment) do have positive influence on employees’ extra-role performance (i.e. OCB).
Emerging multinationals investing in developed countries
Authors: Aureli Selena , Ciambotti Massimo , Dragoni Alessandro
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The aim of this work is to investigate the key factors that lead to a successful deal in the case of acquisitions of Western companies by multinationals from emerging countries (EMNCs).

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts a qualitative paradigm and uses a case study method as a tool of analysis. The case concerns Fondalmec, an Italian unlisted medium-sized joint stock company. The company was acquired in 2007 by the Indian multinational Endurance. Primary data were collected through semi-structured interviews and integrated with secondary data retrieved from relevant documents such as annual reports prepared before and after the acquisition.

Findings

Research findings show that EMNCs have some country-specific characteristics, which should be adequately assessed and realigned to the characteristics of the host country and targets’ resources during both the evaluation phase and the integration process.

Research limitations/implications

The research limitation is attributed to there being only one case study analysis.

Practical implications

The study recommends examining the country of origin of the acquirer and suggests EMNCs’ managers to prefer a “light-touch” integration of Western target companies to gain access to their intangible assets and achieve success.

Originality/value

This work differs from much of the existing literature on mergers and acquisitions because it focuses on EMNCs and analyses the target company together with the buyer and their post-operative development strategy. Furthermore, it is one of the few empirical research studies on non-listed companies, which are often overlooked given the greater difficulty of accessing data.
The successful takeover of La Sexta by Antena 3: pre- and post-merger factors
Authors: Romero-Martínez Ana M. , García-Gómez María Concepción
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the merger arranged in the audiovisual sector between Antena 3 and La Sexta, and specifically the pre- and post-merger factors. This study adopts a comprehensive approach for the analysis of the reasons behind this strategic decision and the role that structural and human integration and the decision on the right momentum and integration speed played in the merger success.

Design/methodology/approach

A single case study research method is used. This qualitative methodology provides richer data to understand complex transactions such as mergers and acquisitions (M&As). According to the data triangulation technique, two research methods were used, in-depth interviews and archival secondary data, including confidential reports and archival trade press.

Findings

The merger involving Antena 3’s takeover of La Sexta in October 2012 has been seen as one of the most successful operations ever undertaken in Spain’s audiovisual industry. The main motivation was to increase the organisation’s size to make it more competitive in the market, thus reducing costs, generating synergies and improving performance. Structural and human integration has provided the backbone for this success, all at a time marked by the global financial crisis and its knock-on effect on the downturn in the advertising market. Another of the key factors of success was that the changes in the organisational systems and processes were designed and partially implemented before the incorporation of La Sexta.

Practical implications

This work has highlighted the need for proper planning and a suitable choice of timing in M&A operations. Management should pay special attention to the integration of human and productive resources to generate synergies on the road to success.

Originality/value

This paper’s main contribution is to highlight an example of a successful M&A in the audiovisual sector in Spain by adopting a holistic perspective. While there are scarce studies in this industry, previous research on this topic is mostly quantitative and, moreover, the rate of success in M&A is quite low.
Acquisition negotiation: the influence of accounting on trust development
Authors: Puhakka Hannu
Published: April 2017

Purpose

This study aims to explore the influence of accounting on trust development in the context of an acquisition negotiation process at the pre-merger stage.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopted a case study research method. Data have been gathered from an acquisition process of two Finnish companies through 18 semi-structured field interviews with the seller’s, the buyer’s and the merged companies’ top management and external advisors who participated in the process.

Findings

The study shows how accounting operated as a trust-building mechanism and served as a substitute for personal-based trust. Accounting assisted the negotiators to surface their initial positive beliefs about the acquisition outcome. Progressively, these positive beliefs outweighed negotiators’ initial negative beliefs regarding the acquisition process. Additionally, accounting enabled the negotiators to show risky behaviors via escalating commitment to the acquisition throughad hoccalculations and continuous discussions.

Originality/value

This study adds to the limited prior research examining interfirm trust and the influence of accounting on trust development during acquisition negotiations.
Antecedents of human resources outsourcing decision in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Thuy Thi Thanh , Chang Man-Ling
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the antecedents of the decision of whether to outsource human resources (HR). Two moderators are considered: the lack of in-house HR expertise and positive HR outcome.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses data collected from 85 Vietnamese firms of different sizes. Regression analysis is used to examine the research hypotheses.

Findings

The strategic involvement of HR management is positively related to the decision to outsource HR. As expected, a positive significant relationship exists between cost reduction and the decision to outsource HR for non-core HR activities. For core HR activities, demand uncertainty relates positively to the decision to outsource HR, and the lack of HR expertise moderates the process of HR outsourcing (HRO).

Research limitations/implications

Although the focus on firms in Vietnam may help to control for cultural factors, it may also limit generalizability. Because of the limited number of samples, this study cannot compare results across different industries. Future research should focus on the cross-cultural aspects of this issue or compare differences across industries.

Practical implications

This study provides HR managers with guidelines for making appropriate decisions regarding HRO. Vendors can exploit aspects of core vs non-core activities to provide professional services that satisfy the demands of firms.

Originality/value

Based on a theoretical approach, this work analyzes the decision to outsource HR in developing countries, an area that heretofore has received scant research attention.
Salivary chromogranin A levels correlate with disease severity but do not reflect anxiety or personality of adult patients with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Kaneko Sakae , Liu Lijuan , Kakamu Takeyasu , Minami‐Hori Masako , Morita Eishin
Published: April 2017

Stress‐induced scratching is an issue in patients with adult atopic dermatitis (AD). Although itching and stress are believed to be intimately related, no objective index is available; therefore, most evaluations are subjective. Using saliva, which is easily collected, we investigated the degree to which AD severity and patient stress levels are reflected in stress proteins in the saliva. Here, we evaluated the severity (Scoring Atopic Dermatitis [SCORAD] score), stress (State–Trait Anxiety Index [STAI] score), personality (Tokyo University Egogram [TEG] II score) and quality of life (Dermatology Life Quality Index [DLQI] score) of 51 patients with AD who were examined in the Department of Dermatology of Shimane University between April and December 2015. We collected saliva and measured salivary chromogranin A (CgA), amylase and cortisol. The amount of salivary CgA per protein in patients with AD was correlated with their SCORAD score (r = 0.458, P < 0.001). There was no correlation between cortisol or amylase levels and SCORAD score. SCORAD score was correlated with DLQI (r = 0.390, P = 0.006). CgA per protein was correlated with DLQI (r = 0.393, P = 0.004). There was no correlation between scores for the anxiety component of the STAI, TEG II or DLQI. Our results suggested that patients with more severe AD may have high stress levels. The personalities of these patients with AD tended to involve elevated anxiety levels.
Modified weekly regimen of cisplatin, epirubicin and paclitaxel induced a durable response in two cases of metastatic extramammary Paget's disease
Authors: Hirai Ikuko , Funakoshi Takeru
Published: April 2017

Metastatic extramammary Paget's disease (EMPD) is a rare cancer with no standardized treatment. We report two cases of metastatic EMPD treated with a modified weekly PET (cisplatin, epirubicin and paclitaxel) regimen given biweekly (i.e. 2 weeks on/2 weeks off) that had durable responses. Case 1 was a 74‐year‐old man with EMPD metastatic to lymph nodes, lung, and bone who presented with a hemorrhagic tumor on the scrotum. We tried the PET regimen weekly, but adjusted the interval to biweekly after two doses because of hematological side‐effects. After five doses, he showed a partial response (PR) on imaging, including the bone lesions. The lesions have remained the same size for 1 year. Case 2 was a 65‐year‐old man with EMPD metastatic to a right inguinal lymph node who presented with an erosive tumor on the scrotum. He was started on weekly docetaxel. However, the lymph node grew and iliac lymph node metastasis developed. Therefore, we tried the PET regimen with a 2 weeks on/2 weeks off schedule. After five doses, he showed a PR. In both cases, all adverse effects were manageable and this modified regimen could be administrated on an outpatient basis. With no current validated chemotherapy regimen, clinicians may consider a modified weekly PET regimen in future treatment of metastatic EMPD.
Functional soil metagenomics: elucidation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon degradation potential following 12 years of in situ bioremediation
Authors: Duarte Márcia , Nielsen Agnes , Camarinha‐Silva Amélia , Vilchez‐Vargas Ramiro , Bruls Thomas , Wos‐Oxley Melissa L. , Jauregui Ruy , Pieper Dietmar H.
Published: April 2017

A culture‐independent function‐based screening approach was used to assess the microbial aerobic catabolome for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons degradation of a soil subjected to 12 years of in situ bioremediation. A total of 422 750 fosmid clones were screened for key aromatic ring‐cleavage activities using 2,3‐dihydroxybiphenyl as substrate. Most of the genes encoding ring‐cleavage enzymes on the 768 retrieved positive fosmids could not be identified using primer‐based approaches and, thus, 205 fosmid inserts were sequenced. Nearly two hundred extradiol dioxygenase encoding genes of three different superfamilies could be identified. Additional key genes of aromatic metabolic pathways were identified, including a high abundance of Rieske non‐heme iron oxygenases that provided detailed information on enzymes activating aromatic compounds and enzymes involved in activation of the side chain of methylsubstituted aromatics. The gained insights indicated a complex microbial network acting at the site under study, which comprises organisms similar to recently identified Immundisolibacter cernigliae TR3.2 and Rugosibacter aromaticivorans Ca6 and underlined the great potential of an approach that combines an activity‐screening, a cost‐effective high‐throughput sequencing of fosmid clones and a phylogenomic‐routed and manually curated database to carefully identify key proteins dedicated to aerobic degradation of aromatic compounds.
Continuous Veno‐Venous Hemofiltration Improves Survival of Patients With Congestive Heart Failure and Cardiorenal Syndrome Compared to Slow Continuous Ultrafiltration
Authors: Premuzic Vedran , Basic‐Jukic Nikolina , Jelakovic Bojan , Kes Petar
Published: April 2017

Continuous veno‐venous hemofiltration (CVVH) could modulate the inflammatory response by removal of circulating cytokines and therefore improve cardiac function in patients with heart failure (HF). We hypothesized that patients with developed cardiorenal syndrome and treated with CVVH have lower risk for mortality than other patients treated with slow continuous ultrafiltration (SCUF). This was a prospective, longitudinal follow‐up study for 24 months duration. In total, 120 patients were recruited from the intensive care units. Only patients with cardiorenal syndrome type 1 and 2 were enrolled. 54 CVVH and 23 SCUF patients survived. Mean survival time was longer in CVVH group with cardiomyopathy than in the SCUF group. When we compared patients with cardiomyopathy and hourly urine output <10 mL/h, mean survival time was significantly longer in patients treated with CVVH. This is the first study to analyze the impact of different CRRT modalities (CVVH vs. SCUF) on survival of patients with HF and who developed cardiorenal syndrome. Better survival in patients treated with CVVH, which is mostly pronounced in patients with cardiomyopathy, is a consequence of a better preserved hourly urine output. Longer survival in patients with cardiomyopathy is most probably related to cytokine removal by CVVH with smaller UF rates and longer duration of each treatment. Slow continuous ultrafiltration remains the method of choice in patients with HF and preserved renal function but in cases of developed cardiorenal syndrome is much inferior to CVVH.
Quercetin, Hyperin, and Chlorogenic Acid Improve Endothelial Function by Antioxidant, Antiinflammatory, and ACE Inhibitory Effects
Authors: Huang Wu‐Yang , Fu Lin , Li Chun‐Yang , Xu Li‐Ping , Zhang Li‐Xia , Zhang Wei‐Min
Published: April 2017

In recent years, the blueberry cultivation and processing industry developed quickly because blueberries are super‐fruit with healthy function. Blueberry leaves are byproducts of the blueberry industry, which are rich in bioactive phenolics, such as quercetin (Q), hyperin (H), and chlorogenic acid (C). This study investigated protective effects of 3 phenolics (Q, H, and C) from leaves of rabbiteye blueberry Vaccinium ashei on human umbilical vein endothelial cells. The results showed that all these 3 phenolics could improve endothelial function by inhibiting oxidative damage and proinflammatory cytokines caused by tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α). The cell vitalities of endothelial cells pretreated with Q, H, and C were higher than those stimulated with TNF‐α only. These phenolics could decrease reactive oxygen species and xanthine oxidase‐1 levels and increase superoxide dismutase and heme oxygenase‐1 levels in endothelial cells. They also could decrease the protein expressions of intercellular adhesion molecule‐1, vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1, and monocyte chemotactic protein‐1 induced by TNF‐α. In addition, Q, H, and C also exhibited vasodilatory effect by reducing the angiotensin I–converting enzyme (ACE) protein levels in endothelial cells. Mostly 3 phenolics exhibited bioactivities as a function of concentration, but the effects not always depended on the concentration. The antioxidant and antiinflammatory effects of Q seemed to be more pronounced than H; however, H exhibited higher cell vitalities. The results indicated that phenolics from rabbiteye blueberry leaves could be potential antioxidants, inflammation and ACE inhibitors, and rabbiteye blueberry leaves provide a new resources of phytochemicals beneficial for cardiovascular health.
Regulation of solvent tolerance in Pseudomonas putida S12 mediated by mobile elements
Authors: Hosseini Rohola , Kuepper Jannis , Koebbing Sebastian , Blank Lars M. , Wierckx Nick , de Winde Johannes H.
Published: April 2017

Organic solvent‐tolerant bacteria are outstanding and versatile hosts for the bio‐based production of a broad range of generally toxic aromatic compounds. The energetically costly solvent tolerance mechanisms are subject to multiple levels of regulation, involving among other mobile genetic elements. The genome of the solvent‐tolerant Pseudomonas putida S12 contains many such mobile elements that play a major role in the regulation and adaptation to various stress conditions, including the regulation of expression of the solvent efflux pump SrpABC. We recently sequenced the genome of P. putida S12. Detailed annotation identified a threefold higher copy number of the mobile element ISS12 in contrast to earlier observations. In this study, we describe the mobile genetic elements and elaborate on the role of ISS12 in the establishment and maintenance of solvent tolerance in P. putida. We identified three different variants of ISS12 of which a single variant exhibits a high translocation rate. One copy of this variant caused a loss of solvent tolerance in the sequenced strain by disruption of srpA. Solvent tolerance could be restored by applying selective pressure, leading to a clean excision of the mobile element.
Sustainable Health Care Financing: The Singapore Experience
Authors: Lim Jeremy
Published: April 2017

The Singapore health system has been lauded for achieving impressive population health outcomes utilizing only a modest 4–5 per cent of GDP, with the government's share only one third of this. Measured health spending is consistent with a larger government commitment to fiscal prudence and discipline in balancing budgets. In fact, the Singapore constitution permits a government to only spend revenue raised during its term of office. Drawing down of national reserves can only be done during exceptional circumstances and requires specific approval from the president. However, the sustainability of Singapore's health system is under pressure from changing demographics, disease trends and growing demands from citizens for greater equity and expanded health care services. In the face of these challenges, the Singaporean government has responded by introducing three major costly policy reforms: the Pioneer Generation Package, to help elderly people pay for medical treatment; MediShield Life, to expand insurance coverage; and the Community Health Assistance Scheme (CHAS), to provide government subsidies for primary care for those that qualify. Despite the expansion of funding and services, the government remains committed to the longstanding principles of fiscal prudence and not drawing from past reserves.
TropFishR: an R package for fisheries analysis with length‐frequency data
Authors: Mildenberger Tobias Karl , Taylor Marc Hollis , Wolff Matthias
Published: April 2017

The R package TropFishR is a new analysis toolbox compiling single‐species stock assessment methods specifically designed for data‐limited fisheries analysis using length‐frequency data.

It includes methods for (i) estimating biological stock characteristics such as growth and mortality parameters, (ii) exploring technical aspects of the fisheries (e.g. exploitation rate and selectivity characteristics), (iii) assessing size and composition of a fish stock by means of virtual population analysis (VPA), and (iv) assessing stock status with yield prediction and production models.

This paper introduces the package and demonstrates the functionality of a selection of its core methods.

TropFishR modernises traditional stock assessment methods by easing application and development and by combining it with advanced statistical approaches.
Adolescents' behavioral and neural responses to e‐cigarette advertising
Authors: Chen Yvonnes , Fowler Carina H. , Papa Vlad B. , Lepping Rebecca J. , Brucks Morgan G. , Fox Andrew T. , Martin Laura E.
Published: April 2017

Although adolescents are a group heavily targeted by the e‐cigarette industry, research in cue‐reactivity has not previously examined adolescents' behavioral and neural responses to e‐cigarette advertising. This study addressed this gap through two experiments. In Experiment One, adult traditional cigarette smokers (n = 41) and non‐smokers (n = 41) answered questions about e‐cigarette and neutral advertising images. The 40 e‐cigarette advertising images that most increased desire to use the product were matched to 40 neutral advertising images with similar content. In Experiment Two, the 80 advertising images selected in Experiment One were presented to adolescents (n = 30) during an functional magnetic resonance imaging brain scan. There was a range of traditional cigarette smoking across the sample with some adolescents engaging in daily smoking and others who had never smoked. Adolescents self‐reported that viewing the e‐cigarette advertising images increased their desire to smoke. Additionally, all participants regardless of smoking statuses showed significantly greater brain activation to e‐cigarette advertisements in areas associated with cognitive control (left middle frontal gyrus), reward (right medial frontal gyrus), visual processing/attention (left lingual gyrus/fusiform gyrus, right inferior parietal lobule, left posterior cingulate, left angular gyrus) and memory (right parahippocampus, left insula). Further, an exploratory analysis showed that compared with age‐matched non‐smokers (n = 7), adolescent smokers (n = 7) displayed significantly greater neural activation to e‐cigarette advertising images in the left inferior temporal gyrus/fusiform gyrus, compared with their responses to neutral advertising images. Overall, participants' brain responses to e‐cigarette advertisements suggest a need to further investigate the long‐run impact of e‐cigarette advertising on adolescents.
Does Personality Matter in Diabetes Adherence? Exploring the Pathways between Neuroticism and Patient Adherence in Couples with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Novak Joshua R. , Anderson Jared R. , Johnson Matthew D. , Hardy Nathan R. , Walker Ann , Wilcox Allison , Lewis Virginia L. , Robbins David C.
Published: April 2017

Background

Personality has received some attention in the Type 2 diabetes literature; however, research has not linked personality and diabetes adherence behaviors (diet and exercise), identified pathways through which they are associated, nor taken into consideration important contextual factors that influence behavior (the patient's partner).

Methods

Dyadic data from 117 married, heterosexual couples in which one member is diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes was used to explore associations between each partner's neuroticism and patient dietary and exercise adherence through the pathways of negative affect, depression symptoms, and couple‐level diabetes efficacy (both patient and spouse report of confidence in the patient's ability to adhere to diabetes management regimens).

Results

Results revealed that higher levels of neuroticism were associated with lower patient dietary and exercise adherence through (1) higher levels of depression symptoms (for patients' neuroticism) and negative affect (for spouses' neuroticism), and (2) lower levels of couple‐level diabetes efficacy.

Conclusions

The results from this study provide evidence that both patient and spouse personality traits are associated with patient dietary and exercise adherence through increased emotional distress—albeit different emotional pathways for patients and spouses—and lower couple confidence in the patients' ability to manage their diabetes.
SHKExtension: a new archaeological window in theSHKfluvial landscape of Middle BedII(Olduvai Gorge, Tanzania)
Authors: Diez‐Martín Fernando , Fraile Cristina , Uribelarrea David , Sánchez‐Yustos Policarpo , Domínguez‐Rodrigo Manuel , Duque Javier , Díaz Isabel , De Francisco Sara , Yravedra José , Mabulla Audax , Baquedano Enrique
Published: April 2017

In this paper, we present the results of new archaeological and geological research carried out inSHKExtension, a new site excavated within theSHKfluvial complex (BedII, Olduvai Gorge). The paper describes the stratigraphy of the site and its correlation with our excavation inSHKMain Site, showing that overbank archaeological accumulations in both areas are synchronous and form part of the same fluvial palaeo‐landscape. On the basis of the archaeo‐stratigraphical analysis performed, mainly geared towards defining high‐resolution chrono‐stratigraphical frameworks within the deposit, we report the results of a technological study of the lithic collection sorted by archaeo‐units, an assessment of the integrity of the main accumulation and an exhaustive lithic refitting programme. The archaeological sequence atSHKExtension, consisting of three archaeo‐units, preserves a high‐density patch of lithics and fossil bones (Level B2), on an overbank setting, isochronous with theSHKMain site. The high percentage of small lithic remains and bones, large number of fresh archaeological materials, and the identification of several refit sets support the integrity of the anthropogenic accumulation documented in Level B2. The main technological trait of the lithic assemblage from this level is the preservation of a qualitatively significant sample of large flakes andLCTs. The technological behaviours observed inSHKE, in the framework of theSHKcomplex, confirm that the complex web of inter‐assemblage variability during BedIItimes operated also in very close fractions of the same palaeo‐landscape. This reinforces the idea that subtle functional parameters must be taken into account in our current assessment of the Developed Oldowan/Acheulean interface.
Deleterious protein‐altering mutations in the SCN10A voltage‐gated sodium channel gene are associated with prolonged QT
Authors: Abou Ziki M.D. , Seidelmann S.B. , Smith E. , Atteya G. , Jiang Y. , Fernandes R.G. , Marieb M.A. , Akar J.G. , Mani A.
Published: April 2017

Background

Long QT syndrome (LQT) is a pro‐arrhythmogenic condition with life‐threatening complications. Fifteen genes have been associated with congenital LQT, however, the genetic causes remain unknown in more than 20% of cases.

Materials and Methods

Eighteen patients with history of palpitations, pre‐syncope, syncope and prolonged QT were referred to the Yale Cardiovascular Genetics Program. All subjects underwent whole‐exome sequencing (WES) followed by confirmatory Sanger sequencing. Mutation burden analysis was carried out using WES data from 16 subjects with no identifiable cause of LQT.

Results

Deleterious and novel SCN10A mutations were identified in 3 of the 16 patients (19%) with idiopathic LQT. These included 2 frameshifts and 1 missense variants (p.G810fs, p.R1259Q, and p.P1877fs). Further analysis identified 2 damaging SCN10A mutations with allele frequencies of approximately 0.2% (p.R14L and p.R1268Q) in 2 independent cases. None of the SCN10A mutation carriers had mutations in known arrhythmia genes. Damaging SCN10A mutations (p.R209H and p.R485C) were also identified in the 2 subjects on QT prolonging medications.

Conclusion

Our findings implicate SCN10A in LQT. The presence of frameshift mutations suggests loss‐of‐function as the underlying disease mechanism. The common association with atrial fibrillation suggests a unique mechanism of disease for this LQT gene.