bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the determinants of foreign direct investment in Ghana
Authors: Asiamah Michael , Ofori Daniel , Afful Jacob
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The factors that determine foreign direct investment (FDI) are important to policy-makers, investors, the banking industry and the public at large. FDI in Ghana has received increased attention in recent times because its relevance in the Ghanaian economy is too critical to gloss over. The purpose of this paper is to examine the determinants of FDI in Ghana between the period of 1990 and 2015.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed a causal research design. The study used the Johansen’s approach to cointegration within the framework of vector autoregressive for the data analysis.

Findings

The study found a cointegrating relationship between FDI and its determinants. The study found that both the long-run and short-run results found statistically significant negative effects of inflation rate, exchange rate and interest rate on FDI in Ghana while gross domestic product, electricity production and telephone usage (TU) had a positive effect on FDI.

Research limitations/implications

The study found a cointegrating relationship between FDI and its determinants. The study found that both the long-run and short-run results found statistically significant negative effects of inflation rate, exchange rate and interest rate on FDI in Ghana whiles gross domestic product, electricity production and TU had a positive effect on FDI.

Practical implications

This study has potential implication for boosting the economies of developing countries through its policy recommendations which if implemented can guarantee more capital inflows for the economies.

Social implications

This study has given more effective ways of attracting more FDI into countries which in effect achieve higher GDP and also higher standard of living through mechanisms and in the end creating more social protection programs for the people.

Originality/value

Although studies have been conducted to explore the determinants of FDI, some of the core macroeconomic variables such as inflation, interest rate, telephone subscriptions, electricity production, etc., which are unstable and have longstanding effects on FDI have not been much explored to a give a clear picture of the relationships. Therefore, a study that will explore these and other macroeconomic variables to give clear picture of their relationships and suggest some of the possible ways of dealing with these variables in order to attract more FDI for the country to achieve its goal is what this paper seeks to do.
Using social media to create engagement: a social marketing review
Authors: Shawky Sara , Kubacki Krzysztof , Dietrich Timo , Weaven Scott
Published: January 2019

Purpose

Recognising the potential of social media as an integral driver of communication that can create engaged communities through dialogic or two-way conversations, this study aims to identify and describe the use of social media in creating participants’ engagement in various social marketing programmes conducted worldwide between 2005 and 2017.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 29 social marketing programmes were identified using systematic literature review procedures.

Findings

The majority of the identified programmes used Facebook, and social media were mostly used to share content-based information in an attempt to connect with target audiences, raise awareness and reach less accessible populations with programme messages. Social media served as an extended channel to traditional media efforts, and very few programmes used social media to create mechanisms for supporting their target audiences’ ability to revisit their social media communications and encourage them to act as advocates for the programmes’ activities.

Research limitations/implications

The analysis presented in this paper is limited by the information provided in the identified studies.

Originality/value

Despite the growing popularity and significance of social media as a channel for consumer engagement, little has been done to synthesise how social marketers are incorporating the use of social media in their social marketing programmes. This research fills this gap by providing systematic understanding of the use of social media in social marketing programmes to date.
Sustainability in finance teaching: evaluating levels of reflection and transformative learning
Authors: Brunstein Janette , Sambiase Marta Fabiano , Kerr Roberto Borges , Brunnquell Claudine , Perera Luiz Carlos Jacob
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to argue for the need for more critical-reflective teaching-learning experiences in finance teaching, capable of promoting changes in students’ frames of reference toward sustainability. The aim was to evaluate the levels of reflection and the transformative learning experiences perceived by undergraduate students enrolled in three finance disciplines at a Business Administration course of a Brazilian business school. This course has been the object of pedagogical experience toward sustainability teaching-learning for some years.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used mixed data. For quantitative data, the authors collected 188 questionnaires, as well as 160 student-written reports for qualitative data.

Findings

Incorporating sustainability topics into finance disciplines, longitudinally, stimulates critical reflection and transformations in students’ mindsets toward sustainable rationality in finance. Despite the high number of agreements with reflection and critical reflection levels, emphasis only on the theoretical discussion of sustainability presuppositions does little to contribute to the practical application of concepts.

Research limitations/implications

Although the study was conducted in a particular Business School, the authors expect that the results can be replicated and improved in comparative studies, encouraging transformative learning in the teaching-learning of finance.

Practical implications

The results show the potential and limitations of the experiences studied and its implications for theoretical and didactics in finance teaching. The discussions and the examples of practical activities presented can bring contributions to educators, professors and researchers.

Originality/value

Few studies in finance seeks to evaluate pedagogical experiences from the point of view of students’ learning, especially in relation to the development of a new rationality.
Relationship between rosacea and dietary factors: A multicenter retrospective case–control survey
Authors: Yuan Xin , Huang Xin , Wang Ben , Huang Yin‐xue , Zhang Yi‐ya , Tang Yan , Yang Jin‐yan , Chen Qi , Jian Dan , Xie Hong‐fu , Shi Wei , Li Ji
Published: January 2019

Although patients with rosacea often consult dermatologists for dietary factors that might be related to their skin disorders, few studies have been conducted to research the relationship between rosacea and dietary factors. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential relationship between rosacea and diet among the large Chinese population with rosacea, which would provide dietary guidelines for patients with rosacea. A multicenter case–control study was conducted. The feeding frequency 2 years before the occurrence of rosacea was collected by standardized questionnaires. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to calculate risks related to the diet. One thousand three hundred and forty‐seven patients with rosacea and 1290 controls were enrolled in our study. We found that high‐frequency intake of fatty food and tea presented a positive correlation with rosacea, while high‐frequency dairy product intake showed significant negative correlation with rosacea. Sweet food, coffee and spicy food appeared to be independent of any subset of rosacea in our study. However, high‐frequency dairy product intake showed a borderline beneficial effect on rosacea severity. We further analyzed the correlation between diet and the subtype of rosacea. We found that high‐frequency fatty intake was associated with erythematotelangiectatic rosacea (ETR) and phymatous rosacea, while high‐frequency tea intake was only associated with ETR. In addition, high‐frequency dairy product intake showed negative correlations with ETR and papulopustular rosacea. Rosacea is associated with some dietary factors, and our study is valuable in establishing dietary guidelines to prevent and improve rosacea.
Changes in the soil meso‐ and micro‐fauna community under the impacts of exotic Ambrosia artemisiifolia
Authors: Qin Zhong , Xie Jun F. , Quan Guo M. , Zhang Jia E. , Mao Dan J. , Wang Jia X.
Published: January 2019

Successful establishment of invasive plant species may exert important effects on soil organisms and processes. To investigate the response of the soil meso‐ and micro‐fauna community to Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. invasion and its age of colonization, samples were collected from three different depths in sites with and without the presence of A. artemisiifolia during the period of October, 2009 to July, 2010. Soil fauna were grouped into four categories, that is, Nematoda, Acarina, Collembola and other meso‐ and micro‐fauna species. Seasonal changes in abundance and distribution patterns in relation to soil biochemical properties were then compared and examined. In general, invasion of A. artemisiifolia into native plants significantly increased the soil fauna densities, especially nematodes. Effects of invasion on soil fauna groups were seasonally variable with density peaking in autumn. Short‐term invasion of A. artemisiifolia could weaken accumulation of soil fauna groups in the top layer. Vertical distribution of soil meso‐ and micro‐fauna communities changed seasonally with the trend of remarkable upward migrations in the period from winter, summer to spring and autumn, though the degrees of upward migration in the invaded and noninvaded sites differed among the fauna groups. Responses of soil fauna communities may be associated with the enhancement of soil nutrient conditions and microbial activities in the presence of A. artemisiifolia. That is, the colonization of A. artemisiifolia, irrespective of colonization age, may exert an important influence on soil meso‐ and micro‐fauna community over time and thus may be beneficial to its successful colonization.
Closures of coal‐fired power stations in Australia: local unemployment effects
Authors: Burke Paul J. , Best Rohan , Jotzo Frank
Published: January 2019

Around one‐third of Australia's coal‐fired power stations closed between 2012 and 2017, with most of the remainder expected to close over coming decades. Current investment in generation capacity is primarily in the form of alternative power, especially wind and solar. In this paper, we conduct an event study to assess the local unemployment effects of Australia's coal‐fired power station closures, an issue of considerable interest given the prominence of coal‐fired power stations in local economies. Our analysis uses monthly regional labour force survey data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics. We find that on average there has been an increase in local unemployment of around 0.7 percentage points after closures of coal‐fired power stations, an effect that tends to persist beyond the months immediately after closures. The findings raise questions about appropriate policy responses for dealing with local structural adjustment issues facing coal‐reliant communities.
The effect of administration mode onCAHPSsurvey response rates and results: A comparison of mail and web‐based approaches
Authors: Fowler Floyd J. , Cosenza Carol , Cripps Lauren A. , Edgman‐Levitan Susan , Cleary Paul D.
Published: January 2019

Objective

The objective of this study was to compare response rates, respondents' characteristics, and substantive results forCAHPSsurveys administered using web and mail protocols.

Data Sources

Patients who had one or more primary care visits in the preceding 6 months.

Study Design/Data Collection Methods

Patients for whom primary care practices had email addresses were randomized to one of four survey administration protocols: web via a portal invitation; web via an email invitation; combination of web and mail; and mail only. Another sample of patients without known email addresses was surveyed by mail. Samples of nonrespondents to the Internet and mail protocols were surveyed by telephone.

Principal Findings

Response rates to surveys administered using the Internet protocols were lower than for the surveys administered by mail (20 percent vs over 40 percent). However, characteristics of respondents and survey answers were very similar across protocols. Respondents without email addresses were older, less educated, and more likely to be male than those with email addresses, and there were a few differences in their responses. There was little evidence of nonresponse bias in either the mail or web protocols.

Conclusion

In this well‐educated patient population, web protocols had lower response rates, but substantive results very similar to those from mail protocols.
A 1‐year perspective on goal‐directed therapy in elderly with hip fracture: Secondary outcomes
Authors: Bartha Erzsebet , Davidson Thomas , Berg Hans E. , Kalman Sigridur
Published: January 2019

Background

We have previously reported inconclusive results from a randomized controlled trial in elderly with hip‐fracture comparing intra‐operative goal‐directed therapy with routine fluid treatment. Now we aimed to describe and compare secondary outcomes at 4 months and 1 year follow‐up and to analyze the cost‐effectiveness.

Methods

Patients with hip fracture (age ≥70) were randomized for GDT or routine fluid treatment (RFT). The secondary outcomes were long‐term survival, complications, number of hospital readmissions, and quality of life (EQ‐5D) changes. Additionally, cost effectiveness was analyzed by an analytic tool which combines the clinical effectiveness, quality of life changes and costs.

Results

Patient data (GDT n = 74; RFT n = 75) were analyzed on an intention to treat basis. Statistically significant differences (GDT vs RFT) were not found considering survival (RR 0.76, 95%CI 0.45‐1.28) and complications (RR 0.68, 95% CI 0.4‐1.10) at 12 months. No statistically significant difference was found between hospital readmissions and quality of life changes.

Conclusion

The statistical uncertainty of risk reduction of negative outcomes and the large variability of the collected data indicate the need of further research in large sample sizes. To enable future health economic evaluation for decision support surrounding implementation of GDT, we suggest adding patient‐oriented outcomes in future trials.
No association between Helicobacter pylori infection and gastrointestinal complaints in a large cohort of symptomatic children
Authors: Chobot Agata , Porębska Jolanta , Krzywicka Agnieszka , Żabka Alicja , Bąk‐Drabik Katarzyna , Pieniążek Wojciech , Dubik Andrzej , Adamczyk Piotr , Kwiecień Jarosław
Published: January 2019

Aim

This Polish study estimated the prevalence of the Helicobacter pylori infection in symptomatic children aged 3–18 and investigated its association with gastrointestinal complaints.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled 1984 children (54% female) with a mean age of 9.5 ± 4.1 years, from Silesia, Poland, for the Good Diagnosis Treatment Life screening programme from 2009 to 2016. They underwent a 13C‐isotope‐labelled urea breath test (UBT) to assess their Helicobacter pylori status, making this the biggest Polish study to use this approach. Further analysis included parental‐reported gastrointestinal symptoms and standard deviation scores (SDS) of anthropometric measurements.

Results

The Helicobacter pylori infection was identified in 220 (11%) children (48% female) and was independent of age and sex. The frequency of symptoms did not differ between Helicobacter positive and negative children (all p > 0.05). Children with a positive UBT result had a lower body mass SDS (−0.41 ± 0.98 versus −0.26 ± 1.01, p = 0.04) and height SDS (−0.45 ± 1.34 versus −0.23 ± 1.27, p = 0.02), but similar body mass index SDS.

Conclusion

We found a low prevalence of Helicobacter pylori in symptomatic children, and positive UBT results were not associated with symptoms that suggested Helicobacter pylori infections. Our findings support the 2017 European and North American guidelines for Helicobacter infections in children.
Impaired butyrate absorption in the proximal colon, low serum butyrate and diminished central effects of butyrate on blood pressure in spontaneously hypertensive rats
Authors: Yang Tao , Magee Kacy L. , Colon‐Perez Luis M. , Larkin Riley , Liao Yan‐Shin , Balazic Eliza , Cowart Jonathan R. , Arocha Rebeca , Redler Ty , Febo Marcelo , Vickroy Thomas , Martyniuk Christopher J. , Reznikov Leah R. , Zubcevic Jasenka
Published: January 2019

Aim

Butyrate is a major gut microbiota‐derived metabolite. Reduced butyrate‐producing bacteria has been reported in the spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR), a model of hypertension characterized by dysfunctional autonomic nervous system and gut dysbiosis. Here, we demonstrate a potential mechanism for butyrate in blood pressure regulation.

Methods

High‐performance liquid chromatography and liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry were performed to measure butyrate levels in feces and serum. Ussing chamber determined butyrate transport in colon ex vivo. Real‐time PCR and immunohistochemistry evaluated expression of butyrate transporter, Slc5a8, in the colon. Mean arterial blood pressure was measured in catheterized anesthetized rats before and after a single butyrate intracerebroventricular injection. Activity of cardioregulatory brain regions was determined by functional magnetic resonance imaging to derive neural effects of butyrate.

Results

In the SHR, we demonstrated elevated butyrate levels in cecal content, but diminished butyrate levels in circulation, possibly due to reduced expression of Slc5a8 transporter in the colon. In addition, we observed lower expression levels of butyrate‐sensing receptors in the hypothalamus of SHR, likely leading to the reduced effects of centrally administered butyrate on blood pressure in the SHR. Functional magnetic resonance imaging revealed reduced activation of cardioregulatory brain regions following central administration of butyrate in the SHR compared to control.

Conclusion

We demonstrated a reduced availability of serum butyrate in the SHR, possibly due to diminished colonic absorption. Reduced expression of butyrate‐sensing receptors in the SHR hypothalamus may explain the reduced central responsiveness to butyrate, indicating microbial butyrate may play a role in blood pressure regulation.
Re‐examining the reciprocal effects model of self‐concept, self‐efficacy, and academic achievement in a comparison of the Cross‐Lagged Panel and Random‐Intercept Cross‐Lagged Panel frameworks
Authors: Burns Richard A. , Crisp Dimity A. , Burns Robert B.
Published: January 2019

Background

The cross‐lagged panel (regression) model (CLPM) is the usual framework of choice to test the longitudinal reciprocal effects between self‐concept and achievement. Criticisms of the CLPM are that causal paths are over‐estimated as they fail to discriminate between‐ and within‐person variation. The random‐intercept cross‐lagged panel model (RI‐CLPM) is one alternative that extends the CLPM by partialling out between‐person variance.

Aims

We compare analyses from a CLPM and a RI‐CLPM which examine the reciprocal relationships between self‐concept, self‐efficacy, and achievement and determine the extent CLPM estimates are inflated by between‐person variance.

Sample(s)

Participants (n = 314) were first‐year undergraduate psychology students recruited as part of the STudent Engagement with Education and Learning (STEEL) project.

Methods

Participants completed measures of self‐efficacy and self‐concept prior to completing fortnightly quiz assessments.

Results

Cross‐Lagged Panel (regression) Model estimates are likely over‐estimated in comparison with RI‐CLPM estimates. Cross‐Lagged Panel (regression) Model analyses identified a reciprocal effects relationship between self‐concept and achievement, confirming established literature. In RI‐CLPM analyses, these effects were attenuated and a skill development association between achievement and self‐concept was supported. A reciprocal relationship between self‐efficacy and achievement was supported. Better model fit was reported for the RI‐CLPM analyses.

Conclusions

Prior findings relating to the reciprocal effects of self‐concept and achievement need to be reconsidered. Whilst such a relationship was supported in a CLPM analysis in this study, within an RI‐CLPM framework, only achievement predicted self‐concept. However, in both CLPM and RI‐CLPM models a reciprocal effects model of self‐efficacy and achievement was supported.
Altered expression of metabolic pathways in CLL detected by unlabelled quantitative mass spectrometry analysis
Authors: Thurgood Lauren A. , Dwyer Eveline S. , Lower Karen M. , Chataway Tim K. , Kuss Bryone J.
Published: January 2019

Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) remains the most common incurable malignancy of B cells in the western world. Patient outcomes are heterogeneous and can be difficult to predict with current prognostic markers. Here, we used a quantitative label‐free proteomic technique to ascertain differences in the B‐cell proteome from healthy donors and CLL patients with either mutated (M‐CLL) or unmutated (UM‐CLL) IGHV to identify new prognostic markers. In peripheral B‐CLL cells, 349 (22%) proteins were differentially expressed between normal B cells and B‐CLL cells and 189 (12%) were differentially expressed between M‐CLL and UM‐CLL. We also examined the proteome of proliferating CLL cells in the lymph nodes, and identified 76 (~8%) differentially expressed proteins between healthy and CLL lymph nodes. B‐CLL cells show over‐expression of proteins involved in lipid and cholesterol metabolism. A comprehensive lipidomic analysis highlighted large differences in glycolipids and sphingolipids. A shift was observed from the pro‐apoptotic lipid ceramide towards the anti‐apoptotic/chemoresistant lipid, glucosylceramide, which was more evident in patients with aggressive disease (UM‐CLL). This study details a novel quantitative proteomic technique applied for the first time to primary patient samples in CLL and highlights that primary CLL lymphocytes display markers of a metabolic shift towards lipid synthesis and breakdown.
Signalling by hydrogen sulfide and polysulfides via protein S‐sulfuration
Authors: Kimura Hideo
Published: January 2019

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a signalling molecule that regulates neuronal transmission, vascular tone, cytoprotection, inflammatory responses, angiogenesis, and oxygen sensing. Some of these functions have recently been ascribed to its oxidized form polysulfides (H2Sn), which can be produced by 3‐mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (MPST), also known as a H2S‐producing enzyme. H2Sn activate ion channels, tumour suppressors, transcription factors, and protein kinases. H2Sn S‐sulfurate (S‐sulfhydrate) cysteine residues of these target proteins to modify their activity by inducing conformational changes through the formation of a disulfide bridge between the two cysteine residues involved. The chemical interaction between H2S and NO also generates H2Sn, which may be a chemical entity that exerts the synergistic effect of H2S and NO. MPST also produces redox regulators cysteine persulfide (CysSSH), GSH persulfide (GSSH), and persulfurated proteins. In addition to MPST, haemoproteins such as haemoglobin, myoglobin, neuroglobin, and catalase as well as SOD can produce H2Sn, and sulfide quinone oxidoreductase and cysteinyl tRNA synthetase can make GSSH and CysSSH. This review focuses on the recent progress in the study of the production and physiological roles of these persulfurated and polysulfurated molecules.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Hydrogen Sulfide in Biology & Medicine. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v177.4/issuetoc
REV7 confers radioresistance of esophagus squamous cell carcinoma by recruiting PRDX2
Authors: Gu Cheng , Luo Judong , Lu Xujing , Tang Yiting , Ma Yan , Yun Yifei , Cao Jianping , Cao Juhua , Huang Zeyu , Zhou Xifa , Zhang Shuyu
Published: January 2019

Radiotherapy has been widely used for the clinical management of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. However, radioresistance remains a serious concern that prevents the efficacy of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) radiotherapy. REV7, the structural subunit of eukaryotic DNA polymerase ζ, has multiple functions in bypassing DNA damage and modulating mitotic arrest in human cell lines. However, the expression and molecular function of REV7 in ESCC progression remains unclear. In this study, we first examined the expression of REV7 in clinical ESCC samples, and we found higher expression of REV7 in ESCC tissues compared to matched adjacent or normal tissues. Knockdown of REV7 resulted in decreased colony formation and increased apoptosis in irradiated Eca‐109 and TE‐1 cells coupled with decreased tumor weight in a xenograft nude mouse model postirradiation. Conversely, overexpression of REV7 resulted in radioresistance in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, silencing of REV7 induced increased reactive oxygen species levels postirradiation. Proteomic analysis of REV7‐interacting proteins revealed that REV7 interacted with peroxiredoxin 2 (PRDX2), a well‐known antioxidant protein. Existence of REV7‐PRDX2 complex and its augmentation postirradiation were further validated by immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence assays. REV7 knockdown significantly disrupted the presence of nuclear PRDX2 postirradiation, which resulted in oxidative stress. REV7‐PRDX2 complex also assembled onto DNA double‐strand breaks, whereas REV7 knockdown evidently increased double‐strand breaks that were unmerged by PRDX2. Taken together, the present study sheds light on REV7‐modulated radiosensitivity through interacting with PRDX2, which provides a novel target for ESCC radiotherapy.
Longitudinal analysis to better characterize Asthma‐COPD overlap syndrome: Findings from an adult asthma cohort in Korea (COREA)
Authors: Park So‐Young , Jung Heewon , Kim Jung‐Hyun , Seo Bomi , Kwon Oh Young , Choi Sungkyoung , Oh Bermseok , Kwon Hyouk‐Soo , Cho You Sook , Moon Hee‐Bom , Won Sungho , Park Taesung , Kim Tae‐Bum
Published: January 2019

Background

Asthma‐chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) overlap syndrome (ACOS), which has received much attention, has not been unanimously defined.

Objective

In this study, we tried to demonstrate that longitudinally defined ACOS is more useful in the real world than blending patients with asthma and COPD.

Methods

The study patients had undergone two consecutive pulmonary function tests measured at least 3 months apart (n = 1889). We selected the patients who had positive bronchodilator response or methacholine provocation tests (n = 959). Next, we defined ACOS as a patient with a persistent airflow obstruction [forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1)/forced vital capacity <0.7] that was identified twice consecutively by an interval of at least 3 months (n = 228).

Results

The proportions of patients who were older, male and smokers were significantly higher, and baseline lung function was lower in patients with ACOS. In the longitudinal analysis, the mean change in lung function was high, and a greater decline in FEV1 was observed in patients with ACOS. In addition, we compared ACOS and severe asthma, and we also performed a cluster analysis and compared the results with our definition of ACOS. According to our definition, ACOS is an independent subtype with distinctive characteristics. Finally, a genome‐wide association study (GWAS) was performed to identify genetic variations associated with ACOS, but no significant single nucleotide polymorphisms were identified.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that ACOS should be defined longitudinally and considered as an independent subgroup distinguished by inherited environmental factors rather than as a genetically distinct independent group.
Insulin resistance is associated with hirsutism in unselected reproductive‐aged women
Authors: Song Do Kyeong , Lee Hyejin , Hong Young Sun , Sung Yeon‐Ah
Published: January 2019

Objective

Hirsutism affects 5%‐10% of reproductive‐aged women worldwide and exhibits clinical importance as a cutaneous manifestation of underlying hyperandrogenism. Racial and genetic factors play roles in manifestation of hirsutism, and the prevalence of hirsutism seems to be low in East Asians. However, the reference value of the modified Ferriman‐Gallwey (mFG) score to diagnose hirsutism and the prevalence of hirsutism have not been determined in Korean populations to date. We aimed to investigate the distribution of the mFG score and establish its reference value for defining hirsutism and to examine its relationship with metabolic and reproductive traits in reproductive‐aged Korean women.

Design, patients and measurements

We enrolled 2139 female volunteers of reproductive age (15‐39 years). We recorded mFG scores from 0 to 4 on 9 different body locations (upper lip, chin, chest, arm, upper abdomen, lower abdomen, upper back, lower back and thighs). Hirsutism was defined as >95th percentile of mFG score. In addition, a 75‐g oral glucose tolerance test was performed, and the homoeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) was calculated.

Results

The mFG values of the 50th, 75th, 90th and 95th percentiles were 0, 1, 4 and 6, respectively. Therefore, the mFG score was indicative of hirsutism when the score was 6 or greater, which represents the 95th percentile. In the correlation analysis, total testosterone, free testosterone, fasting plasma insulin and HOMA‐IR were positively correlated with mFG score (all Ps <0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that HOMA‐IR (β = 0.081) was positively associated with mFG score after adjustments for age, body mass index, total testosterone and the number of menses per year (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

In conclusion, setting the 95th percentile of the mFG score as normal, the reference value to define hirsutism was 6 in reproductive‐aged Korean women. HOMA‐IR was positively associated with the mFG score even after adjustment for biochemical hyperandrogenism.
Extraction of anthocyanins from Aronia melanocarpa skin waste as a sustainable source of natural colorants
Authors: Wathon Muhammad H. , Beaumont Nicholas , Benohoud Meryem , Blackburn Richard S. , Rayner Christopher M.
Published: January 2019

Aronia melanocarpa (Michx.) Elliott (black chokeberry) skin wastes from the production of Aronia fruit juice were extracted using a batch extraction method and a novel integrated extraction‐adsorption process. Optimum conditions for batch extraction were as follows: 60 °C, 3 h, acid (0.1% v/v hydrochloric acid), biomass‐to‐solvent ratio of 1:16, and biomass‐to‐solid phase extraction resin ratio of 1:1. The integrated extraction‐adsorption process gave improved anthocyanin yields of higher quality when the process was performed for 3 h without cooling of the circulating liquid, and with a flow rate of 1.3 ml s−1. Overall, the new method showed better anthocyanin yield and purity compared with the batch method, increasing the extraction yield by ca. 20% (5.25→6.34 mg g−1 dry weight of pomace) and increasing anthocyanin content by ca. 40% (19.9%→28.4% w/w dry weight of extract). This method also simplified the process as three steps were eliminated saving time and energy. Furthermore, the integrated extraction‐adsorption method is industrially scalable to produce large quantities of anthocyanins. In the batch method, anthocyanins present in A. melanocarpa skins were identified as cyanidin‐3‐O‐galactoside (38.8%), cyanidin‐3‐O‐arabinoside (6.4%), cyanidin‐3‐O‐glucoside (3.6%), cyanidin‐3‐O‐xyloside (0.5%), and the cyanidin aglycon (50.7%); in the continuous method, anthocyanin content was cyanidin‐3‐O‐galactoside (45.7%), cyanidin‐3‐O‐arabinoside (16%), cyanidin‐3‐O‐glucoside (3.6%), cyanidin‐3‐O‐xyloside (2.7%), and the cyanidin aglycon (32%). The integrated extraction‐adsorption method was shown to be substantially less susceptible to acid‐catalysed anthocyanin decomposition processes. All anthocyanins were derived from only one anthocyanidin parent structure (cyanidin), and only monosaccharide glycosides were identified, which is unusual when compared with other berries that typically have more anthocyanidins and/or greater glycosylation diversity.
Colour and gloss properties of pigment‐printed synthetic leather using an ultraviolet‐curable water‐borne polyurethane acrylate binder and two photoinitiators at different ratios
Authors: Baysal Gülçin , Kalav Berdan , Karagüzel Kayaoğlu Burçak
Published: January 2019

This study reports on the colour and gloss properties of pigment‐printed polyurethane‐based synthetic leather using an ultraviolet (UV)‐curable water‐borne polyurethane acrylate binder and two types of photoinitiators (Omnirad 819 DW and Omnirad 500) at different ratios. The UV curing of printed synthetic leather samples was conducted with gallium and mercury lamps, either singly or in combination, at three different power levels. Chemical changes in the cured films because of the polymerisation of the UV‐curing process were analysed by Fourier Transform‐infrared spectroscopy, which showed that the polymerisation reaction occurred after UV curing in both the clear and in the pigmented films. The Omnirad 500 photoinitiator is more effective in surface curing and the Omnirad 819 DW photoinitiator is more effective in deep curing. The Omnirad 500 photoinitiator caused the gloss values to drop significantly, especially in the formulation including both photoinitiators, Omnirad 819 DW and Omnirad 500, at a 1:2 ratio, respectively. In the formulation including a higher ratio of the Omnirad 819 DW photoinitiator, higher gloss values were obtained compared with the formulation including a higher ratio of the Omnirad 500 photoinitiator. Considering all the results, the highest gloss value of 20.96 was obtained with samples printed with the formulation of the two photoinitiators at an equal ratio (1:1) cured under a gallium/mercury lamp combination at a power level of 90 W/cm. Moreover, the highest K/S value of 10.86 was obtained with samples printed with the formulation of the two photoinitiators at an equal ratio cured under the gallium lamp at 90 W/cm.
How to Conduct Clinical Trials in Children: A Tutorial
Authors: Shakhnovich Valentina , Hornik Christoph P. , Kearns Gregory L. , Weigel Jaylene , Abdel‐Rahman Susan M.
Published: January 2019

Despite a growing interest in, and commitment to, implementing pediatric clinical trials, approximately one in every five trials in children fails because of inappropriate study design, suboptimal experiment planning, or inadequate participant enrollment. This tutorial, presented from the perspectives of seasoned pediatric investigators, an experienced research coordinator, and an established pediatric clinical trials network, is designed to provide practical guidance for successfully implementing pediatric clinical trials at an academic center or another comparable institution.
DLIC1, but not DLIC2, is upregulated in colon cancer and this contributes to proliferative overgrowth and migratory characteristics of cancer cells
Authors: Even Ipek , Reidenbach Sonja , Schlechter Tanja , Berns Nicola , Herold Rosanna , Roth Wilfried , Krunic Damir , Riechmann Veit , Hofmann Ilse
Published: January 2019

Cytoplasmic dynein‐1 is a large minus‐end‐directed microtubule motor complex involved in membrane trafficking, organelle positioning, and microtubule organization. The roles of dynein light intermediate chains (DLICs; DLIC1 and DLIC2) within the complex are, however, still largely undefined. In this study, we investigated the possible roles of DLICs in epithelial homeostasis and colon cancer development. Mutant clonal analysis of Drosophila Dlic in the follicular epithelium of Drosophila ovary showed defects in nuclear positioning, epithelial integrity, and apical cell polarity. Consistently, knockdown of human DLIC1 and DLIC2 in colon carcinoma cells resulted in damaged epithelial organization, disturbed lumen formation, and impaired apical polarity establishment in three‐dimensional cell culture. Depletion of DLIC1 and DLIC2 led to reduced proliferation, enhanced apoptosis rates, disrupted mitotic spindle assembly, and induction of G2/M arrest in cell cycle progression. Moreover, reduced levels of DLIC1 in contrast to DLIC2 impaired the migratory ability. On the other hand, immunohistochemical examination of human colorectal tissue samples and further colorectal cancer dataset analysis showed a significant upregulation for DLIC1 in tumors, whereas DLIC2 expression was unchanged. In addition, the overexpression of DLIC1 caused increased proliferation, decreased apoptosis and enhanced migration, whereas DLIC2 overexpression did not result in any significant changes. Together, these results indicate that DLIC1 and DLIC2 contribute to the establishment and maintenance of epithelial homeostasis. Furthermore, these findings present the first evidence that DLIC1 and DLIC2 have distinct roles in colon cancer development and that DLIC1 may contribute to proliferative overgrowth and migratory characteristics.
Functional shifts in lake zooplankton communities with hypereutrophication
Authors: Moody Eric K. , Wilkinson Grace M.
Published: January 2019

Functional variation among consumer communities can alter ecosystem nutrient cycling. These impacts on ecosystem function can be specifically driven by interspecific variation in stoichiometric traits; thus, functional trait‐based approaches can be used to explain the processes controlling ecosystem stoichiometry. However, eutrophication may reduce the functional importance of consumers in ecosystems by eliminating heterogeneity in nutrient recycling among taxa.

To test whether zooplankton functional diversity, i.e. aspects of the stoichiometric trait space occupied by zooplankton communities, varies over gradients in trophic state and nutrient stoichiometry, we examined functional and taxonomic variation in the zooplankton communities of 130 lakes in the agriculturally dominated state of Iowa (U.S.A.) over 7 years.

Stoichiometric functional dispersion decreased with trophic state index, supporting the trait abundance shift hypothesis that hypereutrophic lakes are characterised by different combinations of functional traits than their less eutrophic counterparts. Zooplankton communities became increasingly N‐rich relative to P as TSI increased. Specifically, P‐poor Bosmina, Chydorus, and cyclopoid copepods increased in abundance with eutrophication.

Stoichiometric trait distributions of zooplankton shift with eutrophication, which implies that the unique functioning of hypereutrophic lakes could be due in part to the consumers inhabiting them. As zooplankton N:P increased with trophic state while lake total nitrogen to total phosphorus ratio decreased with trophic state, P‐poor zooplankton taxa may exacerbate excess P availability in these hypereutrophic systems by differentially recycling P at higher rates.
Global meta‐analysis of soil‐disturbing vertebrates reveals strong effects on ecosystem patterns and processes
Authors: Mallen‐Cooper Max , Nakagawa Shinichi , Eldridge David J.
Published: January 2019

Aim

Organisms that disturb the soil while foraging or creating shelter (ecosystem engineers) can have profound effects on ecosystems. Soil ejecta from these disturbances can enhance surface nutrients and the resulting depressions accrue organic matter and develop into biological hotspots. Here, we describe a global meta‐analysis of studies that assessed the impacts of vertebrate soil disturbance on both biotic and abiotic components of ecosystems.

Location

Global land surface.

Time period

1941–2016.

Major taxa studied

Vertebrates.

Methods

After conducting a systematic literature search, we quantitatively synthesized the findings of 149 published studies that compared disturbed and undisturbed surfaces. Our meta‐analysis included 64 engineer species, primarily comprised of rodents and a subset of other mammals.

Results

We found that vertebrate soil disturbance significantly enhanced soil nitrogen (by 77%) and phosphorus (35%), and the productivity (32%) and recruitment (32%) of vascular plants. Disturbances had a greater cover of bare soil (126%) than undisturbed controls, and higher abundances of secondary vertebrates (1,233%), that use pre‐constructed burrows as shelter and foraging grounds. Soil disturbance significantly reduced water run‐off (63%) and the abundance of biocrusts (82%). Soil disturbance effects generally intensified with increasing aridity, and the magnitude of soil disturbance effects was not moderated by the area of the disturbance. Disturbances older than 12 months were more distinct from the surrounding matrix than fresh disturbances. The phylogeny of engineers was unrelated to their ecosystem effects, indicating that the same functionality could readily evolve in different taxa.

Main conclusions

In general, disturbances become localized patches of elevated functioning, providing strong evidence that vertebrate engineers, especially those in drylands, are an important source of environmental heterogeneity.
Epstein–Zin Utility, Asset Prices, and the Business Cycle Revisited
Authors: Heiberger Christopher , Ruf Halvor
Published: January 2019

This paper discusses the advantages of Epstein and Zin (1989) (EZ) preferences when building dynamic stochastic general equilibrium (DSGE) models that are consistent with well-known stylized facts of both the business cycle and asset markets. To this end, we combine EZ preferences with several building blocks from the DSGE literature that has tried to solve the equity premium puzzle and to replicate characteristic statistics of the labor market. Our goal is to guide researchers in this area to useful modeling devices and to discuss EZ preferences vis-a-vis the standard time-additive expected utility function. EZ preferences separate the attitude toward risk from the attitude toward intertemporal substitution. We demonstrate that this additional degree of freedom allows us to closely match the empirical facts already in a frictionless production economy with endogenous labor supply. Our study follows Heer and Maußner (2013). We examine models that consider adjustment costs of capital accumulation, consumption habits, and frictions in the allocation of labor. Our empirical targets are estimated from German data.
Adsorption performance of mesoporous silicas towards a cationic dye. Influence of mesostructure on adsorption capacity
Authors: Meléndez‐Ortiz Hector Iván , Puente‐Urbina Bertha , Mercado‐Silva Jesus Alfonso , García‐Uriostegui Lorena
Published: January 2019

The dye adsorption performance of four mesoporous silicas with different structure and textural properties, MCM‐41, MCM‐48, SBA‐15 and mesocellular silica foam (MCF), was studied and compared by using toluidine blue O (TBO) as dye model in aqueous solution. These materials were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), small‐angle X‐ray scattering, nitrogen adsorption‐desorption analyses, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The effect of some parameters such as adsorbent dosage, contact time, temperature, and pH on the TBO removal in aqueous solution was studied. Results showed that adsorption capacity raised when adsorbent dosage, contact time and pH solution were increased while an increase in temperature decreased the adsorption of TBO. Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin isotherm models were employed to elucidate the adsorption mechanism while the adsorption rate data were analyzed according to the pseudo‐first and second‐order kinetic models. Results showed that adsorption of TBO onto MCM‐48, SBA‐15, and MCF fitted well the Freundlich isotherm model while the kinetic studies showed that adsorption process could be better described by the pseudo‐second‐order model for all mesoporous silicas. Finally, some solvents were evaluated to carried out dye desorption from the TBO‐loaded mesoporous silicas founding that acetic acid was the most efficient.
The impact of anti‐consumption on consumer well‐being
Authors: Oral Cansu , Thurner Joy‐Yana
Published: January 2019

Although consumption is a symbol of an individual's socio‐economic status, an increasing number of individuals voluntarily prefer to consume less. This phenomenon is called anti‐consumption and it mainly occurs in developed countries where consumption levels have reached excessive amounts. One of the main aims of individuals following an anti‐consumption lifestyle is to increase their own well‐being. However, researchers have yet to investigate whether anti‐consumption, indeed, leads to greater positive consumer well‐being. Hence, through this paper this gap in research is addressed by first deriving a conceptual framework and hypotheses, followed by developing an anti‐consumption scale, and then by testing the impact of anti‐consumption on consumer well‐being. The insights of our analysis highlight the implications for both academia and consumers.
Angiokeratomas, not everything is Fabry disease
Authors: Cuestas Daniel , Perafan Alejandra , Forero Yency , Bonilla Juan , Velandia Alexander , Gutierrez Ana , Motta Adriana , Herrera Hugo , Rolon Mariam
Published: January 2019

Introduction

Angiokeratoma corporis diffusum are benign capillary malformations typically associated with Fabry disease and other lysosomal storage disorders. Only in a few cases they appear in healthy individuals.

Methods and Case

We carried out an exhaustive review of the literature on angiokeratomas and their main clinical, dermoscopy and histological features. Additionally, we reviewed the cases of healthy subjects illustrating the limitations of each case and comparing these results with our case.

Discussion

Angiokeratoma corporis diffusum is mostly related to Fabry disease and other lysosomal storage disorders. However, some cases may occur in apparently healthy individuals. Therefore, there is a increasing interest in its etiology, pathogenesis and clinical evaluation.

Conclusion

This is an academic–clinical review on angiokeratomas and their main implications in daily dermatological practice. Additionally, we report the first case in the literature of angiokeratoma corporis diffusum in a healthy patient with up‐to‐date laboratory methods currently available. The clinician should remember that not all angiokeratoma corporis diffusum occurs with lysosomal storage disorders.
Is dental trauma more prevalent in maltreated children? A comparative Study in Southern Brazil
Authors: da Silva‐Júnior Ivam Freire , Drawanz Hartwig Andréia , Leão Goettems Marília , Sousa Azevedo Marina
Published: January 2019

Background

Although a high prevalence of head and neck trauma has been reported in maltreated children and adolescents, most of these studies focused on record‐based analyses, and only a few used control groups.

Aim

To assess the presence of dental trauma in maltreated children in comparison with children without a history of maltreatment.

Design

A cross‐sectional study with 68 maltreated children and 204 age, sex‐, and school‐matched control participants was conducted in Pelotas, a Southern Brazilian city. Socioeconomic and demographic data were collected. Clinical examinations were performed to evaluate dental trauma (O'Brien Index) and dental caries (WHO criteria). Fisher's exact and chi‐squared tests were used for intergroup comparisons of socioeconomic and clinical variables. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to obtain adjusted odds ratios (OR).

Results

The prevalence of dental trauma was 23.53% (n = 16) among maltreated children and 14.22% (n = 29) in the comparative group. After adjustment, the occurrence of dental trauma showed association with child maltreatment, with an OR of 2.14 (95% confidence interval 1.03‐4.44) for maltreated children in comparison with children in the comparative group (P = 0.04).

Conclusions

Maltreated children presented with more dental trauma than those with no history of maltreatment.