bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temporally feathered intensity modulated radiation therapy: a planning technique to reduce normal tissue toxicity
Authors: López Alfonso Juan Carlos , Parsai Shireen , Joshi Nikhil , Godley Andrew , Shah Chirag , Koyfman Shlomo A. , Caudell Jimmy J. , Fuller Clifton D. , Enderling Heiko , Scott Jacob G.
Published: September 2017

Purpose

Intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) has allowed optimization of three-dimensional spatial radiation dose distributions permitting target coverage while reducing normal tissue toxicity. However, radiation-induced normal tissue toxicity is a major contributor to patients’ quality of life and often a dose-limiting factor in the definitive treatment of cancer with radiation therapy. We propose the next logical step in the evolution of IMRT using canonical radiobiological principles, optimizing the temporal dimension through which radiation therapy is delivered to further reduce radiation-induced toxicity by increased time for normal tissue recovery. We term this novel treatment planning strategy “temporally feathered radiotherapy” (TFRT).

Methods

TFRT plans were generated as a composite of five simulated treatment plans each with altered constraints on particular hypothetical organs at risk (OARs) to be delivered sequentially. For each of these TFRT plans, OARs chosen for feathering receive higher doses while the remaining OARs receive lower doses than the standard fractional dose delivered in a conventional fractionated IMRT plan. Each TFRT plan is delivered a specific weekday, which in effect leads to a higher dose once weekly followed by four lower fractional doses to each temporally feathered OAR. We compared normal tissue toxicity between TFRT and conventional fractionated IMRT plans by using a dynamical mathematical model to describe radiation-induced tissue damage and repair over time.

Results

Model-based simulations of TFRT demonstrated potential for reduced normal tissue toxicity compared to conventionally planned IMRT. The sequencing of high and low fractional doses delivered to OARs by TFRT plans suggested increased normal tissue recovery, and hence less overall radiation-induced toxicity, despite higher total doses delivered to OARs compared to conventional fractionated IMRT plans. The magnitude of toxicity reduction by TFRT planning was found to depend on the corresponding standard fractional dose of IMRT and organ-specific recovery rate of sublethal radiation-induced damage.

Conclusions

TFRT is a novel technique for treatment planning and optimization of therapeutic radiotherapy that considers the non-linear aspects of tissue repair to optimize toxicity profiles. Model-based simulations of TFRT to carefully conceptualized clinical cases have demonstrated potential for normal tissue toxicity reduction in a previously described dynamical model of normal tissue complication probability (NTCP).
Comparison of two ancient DNA extraction protocols for skeletal remains from tropical environments
Authors: Nieves-Colón Maria A. , Ozga Andrew T. , Pestle William J. , Cucina Andrea , Tiesler Vera , Stanton Travis W. , Stone Anne C.
Published: September 2017

Objectives

The tropics harbor a large part of the world’s biodiversity and have a long history of human habitation. However, paleogenomics research in these climates has been constrained so far by poor ancient DNA yields. Here we compare the performance of two DNA extraction methods on ancient samples of teeth and petrous portions excavated from tropical and semitropical sites in Tanzania, Mexico, and Puerto Rico (N=12).

Materials and Methods

All samples were extracted twice, built into double-stranded sequencing libraries, and shotgun sequenced on the Illumina HiSeq 2500. The first extraction protocol, Method D, was previously designed for recovery of ultrashort DNA fragments from skeletal remains. The second, Method H, modifies the first by adding an initial EDTA wash and an extended digestion and decalcification step.

Results

No significant difference was found in overall ancient DNA yields or post-mortem damage patterns recovered from samples extracted with either method, irrespective of tissue type. However, Method H samples had higher endogenous content and more mapped reads after quality-filtering, but also higher clonality. In contrast, samples extracted with Method D had shorter average DNA fragments.

Discussion

Both methods successfully recovered endogenous ancient DNA. But, since surviving DNA in ancient or historic remains from tropical contexts is extremely fragmented, our results suggest that Method D is the optimal choice for working with samples from warm and humid environments. Additional optimization of extraction conditions and further testing of Method H with different types of samples may allow for improvement of this protocol in the future.
Contested takeovers of family firms and socioemotional wealth: a case study
Authors: Campbell Kevin , Jerzemowska Magdalena
Published: September 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an understanding of the importance of socioemotional wealth (SEW) to family firms in Poland viewed through the lens of the events surrounding the first hostile takeover bid of the post-communist era on the Warsaw Stock Exchange when the clothing company Vistula & Wólczanka (V&W) made an unsolicited, leveraged bid for the family-controlled jewelry company W. Kruk.

Design/methodology/approach

The 2008 takeover and its aftermath are described in the context of the corporate governance and legal environment in Poland. The case study events demonstrate the connection between firm behavior and SEW theory.

Findings

After the acquisition of W. Kruk by V&W, the Kruk family purchased stock in the newly named Vistula Group and gained influence over the supervisory board in concert with a business ally, eventually wresting back control of the company in the style of a Pac-Man “defense.” The case study illustrates the importance of SEW in family firm takeovers.

Research limitations/implications

The case study design has limitations for generalizability. Nevertheless the research highlights the important role of SEW preservation in understanding the market for corporate control of listed family firms in Poland.

Practical implications

Understanding the reaction by family firms to takeover bids requires recognition that there is a tradeoff between financial and SEW considerations, not just financial gains and losses.

Originality/value

The case study demonstrates the importance of SEW to family firms and suggests that the balance of power in takeovers on the Polish stock market rests with incumbent management.
Great Recession impact on European labor markets integration: cluster analyses
Authors: Syed Zwick Helene , Syed Sarfaraz Ali Shah
Published: September 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the impact of the Great Recession (2008-2014) on the labor market profiles and integration process in the European Union (EU26) and in the 12 historical Eurozone countries.

Design/methodology/approach

This study assesses the impact of the crisis, and applies multivariate statistical methods containing a principal component analysis and an agglomerative hierarchical clustering. Two non-overlapping sub-periods are established: a pre-crisis (1999-2007) period and a crisis (2008-2014) period, and eight European indicators are considered.

Findings

The results are threefold. First, they bring strong evidence of a significant impact of the crisis on the process of integration. Second, they interestingly reveal more heterogeneity in the aftermath of the crisis across the EU countries, while more homogeneity across the Eurozone countries. Third, this apparent homogenization is accompanied by a polarization process into two main groups of countries including Spain, Portugal, Finland and the Netherlands in one group while the rest of the Eurozone in the other.

Originality/value

This study is unique as it does not only present a snapshot of the challenges posed by the Great Recession to the European Union and Eurozone labor market profiles, but it also assesses its impact on their integration process. In addition, using the, suitable yet ignored, multivariate statistical methods on the latest data to study such an impact is another contribution of this paper.
Labour market fluctuations in GIPS – shocks vs adjustments
Authors: Antosiewicz Marek , Lewandowski Piotr
Published: September 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify factors behind cyclical fluctuations and differences in adjustments to shocks in Greece, Italy, Portugal and Spain (GIPS) and a reference country – Germany. The authors try to answer the question whether the GIPS countries could have fared differently in the Great Recession if they reacted to shocks affecting them like a resilient German economy would have.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use a DSGE model of real open economy with search and matching on the labour market and endogenous job destruction, estimated separately for each country. The authors calculate impulse response functions, historical decompositions and perform counterfactual simulations of the response of the German model to the sequence of shocks identified for each of GIPS.

Findings

The authors find that all GIPS countries were more vulnerable to productivity and foreign demand shocks than Germany. They would have experienced lower macroeconomic volatility if they reacted to their shocks like Germany. Employment (unemployment) rates in GIPS would have been less volatile and higher (lower) during the Great Recession, especially in Spain and Greece. Real wage volatility would have been higher, especially in Spain and Portugal.

Originality/value

The trade-off between unemployment and wage adjustments vis-à-vis Germany was the largest in Spain, which also would have experienced lower variability of job separations and hirings. The evolution of the labour market in Greece and Portugal was driven rather by its higher responsiveness to GDP fluctuations than in Germany, whereas Italy emerges as the least responsive labour market within GIPS.
European labor market integration: what the experts think
Authors: Krause Annabelle , Rinne Ulf , Zimmermann Klaus F.
Published: September 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the current state of the single European labor market (SELM), its related risks and opportunities, and identify useful measures for reaching the goal of increased European labor mobility.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted an online survey among European labor market experts (IZA research and policy fellows) on the current state of the SELM, its determinants, and the role of the Great Recession. The authors evaluate the data using descriptive and regression-based methods.

Findings

The experts agree on the SELM’s importance, especially for larger economic welfare, but are not convinced that it has been achieved. To enhance labor mobility across Europe, the respondents identify key factors such as recognizing professional qualifications more efficiently, harmonizing social security systems, and knowing several languages. Moreover, at least 50 percent of the respondents consider positive attitudes – by policy makers and citizens alike – toward free mobility to be important to enhance labor mobility.

Originality/value

The IZA Expert Opinion Survey presents a unique opportunity to learn how numerous experts think about the important issue of European labor market integration and moreover constitutes a valuable extension to public opinion surveys on related topics. This survey’s findings provide a sophisticated basis for a discussion about policy options regarding the SELM.
Approaches to improve the interaction between general practitioners and migrants – a systematic review of international literature
Authors: Christen Daniela , Balthasar Andreas
Published: September 2017

Purpose

Health monitoring of the migrant population in most European countries shows that migrants have a lower standard of health conditions than the resident population. One of the problems is that the interaction between migrants and general practitioners (GPs) is not optimal. Most of the migrants are not able to fully understand the GP’s advice or instructions. GPs report that they are not adequately supported by health institutions, and they are asking for new solutions. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to conduct a systematic review to find existing international approaches to improve the interaction between GPs and their migrant patients.

Design/methodology/approach

The literature search identified 2,387 articles, 36 of which met the full inclusion criteria. In total, 12 of the included studies referenced approaches for improving GPs’ communication skills. Seven articles described solutions for a better understanding of cultural differences, and six articles listed approaches to health education for GPs. One article highlighted how health information can improve the interaction between GPs and migrants, and four articles detailed new technologies that could improve and enhance quality of care. The last six articles included good practice strategies described by GPs.

Findings

This paper provides an overview of international approaches from the viewpoint of GPs. It concludes that there is no single instrument or method that works in all situations. There are, however, a wide range of approaches available that could lead to substantial improvements in the quality of care for the migrant population.

Research limitations/implications

Different health systems in the reviewed countries and changing roles of GPs must be taken into consideration when making statements about successful approaches. Migrants have different backgrounds and cannot all be categorized as one and the same group of patients. Another limitation of the review concerns the evidence level of the articles included, since most of the studies do not reach high level of evidence. In addition, there is a need to analyze aspects of the relationship between GPs and the migrant population that have been neglected up to now, such as financial issues, patients’ expectations, or lack of trust.

Originality/value

This paper provides an overview of international approaches from the viewpoint of GPs.
Barriers to innovation in service SMEs: evidence from Mexico
Authors: Maldonado-Guzmán Gonzalo , Garza-Reyes Jose Arturo , Pinzón-Castro Sandra Yesenia , Kumar Vikas
Published: September 2017

Purpose

Specific research related to the study of innovation barriers in service SMEs in the Latin American region is limited. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects that external environmental, financial and human barriers have on innovation activities, particularly, within the context of Mexican service SMEs.

Design/methodology/approach

Three hypotheses were formulated and tested using structural equation modelling. Data were collected through an instrument that was developed based on relevant constructs adapted from the literature. The instrument was validated using confirmatory factor analysis, Cronbach’s α test and the composite reliability index to ensure reliability of the theoretical model. The instrument was distributed among service SMEs in the Aguascalientes state of Mexico, from were 308 valid responses were obtained.

Findings

In general, the results indicate that all the three barriers investigated (i.e. external environmental, financial and human) hinder innovation in service SMEs, with the external environmental barrier being the most significant of the three.

Practical implications

The findings of this research can inform managers of service SMEs and policy makers when formulating and implementing strategies to reduce innovation barriers.

Originality/value

Evidence suggests that specific research related to the study of innovation barriers in service SMEs in the Latin American region is limited. This paper fills this research gap by expanding the limited body of knowledge in this field and providing further evidence on this phenomenon. The study also enables the distinctive characteristics of innovation barriers to be understood within a particular context, expanding in this way the body of knowledge on this field.
Enterprise resource planning and customer relationship management value
Authors: Ruivo Pedro , Oliveira Tiago , Mestre André
Published: September 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop and test a theoretical model to measure the impact of enterprise resource planning (ERP) and customer relationship management (CRM) systems and moderating relationships of system and process integration on business value.

Design/methodology/approach

ERP and CRM systems are analysed with the resource-based view theory and measured by their impact on business value, having in consideration the moderation of system and process integration. The model was tested and analysed with data collected by Microsoft, from firms that have adopted both ERP and CRM systems in their organisation.

Findings

ERP system is found to be an important asset to business value, but CRM systems’ impact on business value is found to be not significant. System integration as moderator of ERP or CRM system is found to be not significant but has a positive and significant impact on business value. For process integration, the study finds that it is significant only when moderating the CRM system variable.

Research limitations/implications

The model shows that the moderating effects of system and process integration are important variables for understanding the joint business value of ERP and CRM.

Practical implications

Adopting an ERP system and ensuring system integration provides a direct impact on business value. In order for a CRM system to have a positive impact on business value, process integration with ERP system must be ensured.

Originality/value

This study provides new knowledge on how ERP and CRM systems used together may positively influence value from IT investments, and how systems integration and process integration provide business value.
Pricing and service decision of dual-channel operations in an O2O closed-loop supply chain
Authors: Kong Lingcheng , Liu Zhiyang , Pan Yafei , Xie Jiaping , Yang Guang
Published: September 2017

Purpose

The online direct selling mode has been widely accepted by enterprises in the O2O era. However, the dual-channel (online/offline, forward/backward) operations of the closed-loop supply chain (CLSC) changed the relationship between manufacturers and retailers, thus resulting in channel conflict. The purpose of this paper is to take a dual-channel operations of CLSC as the research target, where a manufacturer sells a single product through a direct e-channel as well as a conventional retail channel; the retailer are responsible for collecting used products in the reverse supply chain and the manufacturer are responsible for remanufacturing.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors build a benchmark model of dual-channel price and service competition and take the return rate, which is considered to be related to the service level of the retailer, as the function of the service level to extend the model in the reverse SC. The authors then analyze the optimal pricing and service decision under centralization and decentralization, respectively. Finally, with the revenue-sharing factor, wholesale price and recycling price transfer payment coefficient as contract parameters, the paper also designs a revenue-sharing contract led by the manufacturer and explores in what situation the contract could realize the Pareto optimization of all players.

Findings

In the baseline model, the results show that optimal price and service level correlate positively in centralization; however, the relation relies on consumers’ price sensitivity in decentralization. In the extension model, the relationship between price and service level also relies on the relative value of increased service cost and remanufacturing saved cost. When the return rate correlates with the service level, a recycling transfer payment can elevate the service level and thus raise the return rate. Through analyzing the parameters in revenue-sharing contract, a point can be reached where lowering the wholesale price and raising the transfer payment coefficient will promote retailers to share revenue.

Practical implications

Many enterprises establish the dual-channel distribution system both online and offline, which need to understand how to resolve their channel conflict. The conflict is especially strong in CLSC with remanufacturing. The result helps the node enterprises realize the coordination of the dual-channel CLSC.

Originality/value

It takes into account the fact that there are two complementary relationships, such as online selling and offline delivery; used product recycling and remanufacturing. The authors optimize the strategy of product pricing and service level in order to solve channel conflict and double marginalization in the closed-loop dual-channel distribution network.
Volunteering with older people in a care home
Authors: Tinker Anthea , Berdugo Victoria , Buckland Michael , Crabtree Lois , Maheswaran Anistta , Ong Andrea , Patel Jasmine , Pusey Emilia , Sureshkumar Chandini
Published: September 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the influence that volunteering before medical school with older people in a care home has on the perceptions of older people.

Design/methodology/approach

Eight medical students answered an anonymous questionnaire relating to their experiences of volunteering in a care home before medical school. This was combined with an analysis of the relevant literature.

Findings

All the students had initially volunteered to enhance their CV for medical school. After volunteering, they had a greater realisation of the variety of older people. They also gained a number of transferable skills related to communicating with older people, especially those with cognitive impairment. The greatest learning experience was around the issues to do with dementia.

Research limitations/implications

The research is based on eight students although they were from different areas.

Practical implications

It would be beneficial if care homes could be more proactive in encouraging prospective medical students to volunteer. Medical schools could also provide clearer advice or take a more active stance such as encouraging prospective students to volunteer with older people. Further research should be with a larger sample to gain insight into varying perspectives. It would also be useful to conduct research into older adults’ attitudes towards the contribution of potential medical students to their own lives and to the home.

Social implications

Volunteering before medical school should be encouraged as it will enhance the chances of getting a place as well as being an eye opening experience and equip them with lifelong skills.

Originality/value

Original.
The Volume–Outcome Relationship Revisited: Practice Indeed Makes Perfect
Authors: Hentschker Corinna , Mennicken Roman
Published: September 2017

Objective

To examine the causal effect of a hospital's experience with treating hip fractures (volume) on patient treatment outcomes.

Data Sources

We use a full sample of administrative data from German hospitals for 2007. The data provide detailed information on patients and hospitals. We also reference the hospitals’ addresses and the zip codes of patients’ place of residence.

Study Design

We apply an instrumental variable approach to address endogeneity concerns due to reverse causality and unobserved patient heterogeneity. As instruments for case volume, we use the number of potential patients and number of other hospitals in the region surrounding each hospital.

Principal Findings

Our results indicate that after applying an instrumental variables (IV) regression of volume on outcome, volume significantly increases quality.

Conclusions

We provide evidence for the practice‐makes‐perfect hypothesis by showing that volume is a driving factor for quality.
Towards Agricultural Policy 3.0 – an agenda for agricultural research
Authors: Mann Stefan
Published: September 2017

This article reviews the development from market‐based support measures (‘Agricultural Policy 1.0’) towards direct and decoupled payments (‘Agricultural Policy 2.0’) which are increasingly justified by environmentally friendly practices (‘Agricultural Policy 2.1’) to which payments are bound. It describes frequent problems connected with today's agri‐environmental programmes, particularly non‐compliance and a too indirect link between practices paid for and environmental effects. Other programmes have started to pay farmers more directly for environmental outputs on their fields, such as the number of valuable plants on their grassland. Transaction costs for the administration and control of these programmes have been shown to remain at an acceptable level, so that such output‐related policies may be effective and promising options. It is suggested to direct the work of agricultural researchers, including economists, into looking for a stronger link between environmental outputs and public support, something that could be termed Agricultural Policy 3.0. This could lend some more visibility, relevance and attractiveness to our discipline.
The relationship between knowledge, health literacy, and adherence among patients taking oral anticoagulants for stroke thromboprophylaxis in atrial fibrillation
Authors: Rolls Chanelle A. , Obamiro Kehinde O. , Chalmers Leanne , Bereznicki Luke R. E.
Published: September 2017

Background

Patients’ knowledge regarding their oral anticoagulant (OAC) treatment for stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation (AF), their level of medication adherence, and health literacy are known to affect treatment outcomes. However, contemporary data regarding the relationships between these variables are lacking.

Objective

To investigate the relationships between anticoagulant knowledge, health literacy, and self‐reported adherence in patients taking warfarin and the directly acting oral anticoagulants.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted in 48 patients with AF identified from general practices. The Anticoagulation Knowledge Tool (AKT) was used to assess anticoagulation knowledge; the Short Test of Functional Health Literacy in Adults (s‐TOFHLA) for health literacy; and the 8‐item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS) for medication adherence.

Results

Participants had mean scores of 61.6 ± 15.8, 7.2 ± 1.1, and 24.7 ± 9.5 for the AKT, MMAS‐8 and s‐TOFHLA, respectively. Significant correlations were observed between anticoagulation knowledge and health literacy with medication adherence (0.37, P < .01 and .30, P < .05, respectively). Participants with inadequate health literacy had a significantly lower mean knowledge score than those with adequate health literacy (55.8 ± 15.9 vs 66.1 ± 14.4, P < .05). Participants who self‐reported adherence to their OAC had significantly higher knowledge scores than those who did not (67.5 ± 13.3 vs 56.1 ± 16.2, P < .05).

Conclusion

Significant correlations between health literacy, OAC knowledge, and adherence were observed, and these relationships should to be considered by health professionals responsible for monitoring patients who are prescribed anticoagulants. We also observed serious gaps in OAC knowledge. Interventions designed to optimize the outcomes of anticoagulant treatment need to address these factors.
The Limited Prospects for International Tax Cooperation
Authors: Kudrle Robert
Published: September 2017

The recent pace of international agreement aimed to reduce tax evasion and avoidance was completely unpredicted prior to the financial crisis. The two targets are often considered to be merely different dimensions of the same problem. This paper argues that the two problems actually involve very different logics, and this holds the key to the prospects for success. The assault on tax evasion confronts a problem that is commonly recognized and admits to amelioration through the increased information sharing that is rapidly, although unevenly, advancing. Attempts to reduce corporate tax avoidance, however, confront ambiguity at every turn. National corporate tax systems differ markedly from each other in rules as well as rates, and agreement necessarily takes place in an ever more competitive international business environment in which national rate and rule setting will remain largely independent. Moreover, increased attention to the international taxation of business seems to have increased rather than dampened unilateral initiatives to advance national gain.
Is Real Earnings Smoothing Harmful? Evidence from Firm‐Specific Stock Price Crash Risk
Authors: Khurana Inder K. , Pereira Raynolde , Zhang Eliza (Xia)
Published: September 2017

This study examines whether and when real earnings smoothing influences firm‐specific stock price crash risk. Using a sample of U.S. public firms for the years 1993 through 2014, we find real earnings smoothing to be positively associated with firm‐specific stock price crash risk. This finding is consistent with the view that real earnings smoothing helps managers withhold bad news, keep poor‐performing projects, conceal resource diversion, and engage in ineffective risk management, which increases crash risk. Further, we find a stronger relation between crash risk and real earnings smoothing when firm uncertainty is higher, product market competition is lower, and balance sheet constraint is higher. Overall, our study suggests that real earnings smoothing destroys shareholder value in that it increases stock price crash risk.
Practising drinking, practising health
Authors: Duff Cameron
Published: September 2017

Commentary to: All drinking is not equal: how a social practice theory lens could enhance public health research on alcohol and other health behaviours
Disloyal Brokers and Weak Parties
Authors: Novaes Lucas M.
Published: September 2017

This article shows that the disloyalty of political brokers causes party fragility. Lacking distinctive brands, organization, and activists to mobilize individuals, parties “hire” local notables to broker votes among a local, nonpartisan constituency. However, brokers may be unreliable agents, regularly changing political allegiances in search of better returns for their brokerage among the module of voters they control. This free agency from brokers hinders durable party–voter linkages and results in electorally vulnerable parties. Measuring how brokers influence parties is empirically complex, but taking advantage of the fact that in Brazil these agents are also local candidates, this article demonstrates the negative electoral consequences of brokers' free agency on party performance. Natural experiments and an unexpected, temporary institutional reform that discouraged disloyalty for brokers demonstrate this relationship.
Association of breast milk fatty acids with allergic disease outcomes—A systematic review
Authors: Waidyatillake N. T. , Dharmage S. C. , Allen K. J. , Lodge C. J. , Simpson J. A. , Bowatte G. , Abramson M. J. , Lowe A. J.
Published: September 2017

Introduction

Dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have immunoregulatory properties. Breast milk is rich in PUFA, and it has been hypothesized that these PUFAs may be important in the aetiology of allergic diseases. Despite a growing body of evidence, the associations between breast milk PUFA and allergic disease have not previously been systematically reviewed.

Methods

The search was performed in PubMed and EMBASE databases using breastfeeding, fatty acid and allergic disease terms. Two authors were involved in selecting papers for review according to the inclusion criteria and extracting information on study characteristics and measures of association. Only studies that reported numeric associations between concentration of breast milk fatty acids and allergic disease outcomes were included.

Results

A total of 18 papers met the inclusion criteria, reporting results from 15 study populations. The majority were cohort studies (n=11), with data from only two case‐control and two cross‐sectional studies. Sample size varied between 30 and 352 participants, and follow‐up time of the cohorts varied between 3 months and 14 years. Nine studies reported on eczema, seven reported on sensitization, and only five reported on asthma/wheeze. There was heterogeneity among studies in terms of presenting the association between PUFA and allergy; therefore, estimates could not be pooled. Only a few studies observed associations between n‐3 and n‐6 PUFAs and allergic disease, and the magnitude of this effect varied greatly.

Conclusions

There is insufficient evidence to suggest that colostrum or breast milk polyunsaturated fatty acids influence the risk of childhood allergic diseases.
Review article: the human intestinal virome in health and disease
Authors: Carding S. R. , Davis N. , Hoyles L.
Published: September 2017

Background

The human virome consists of animal‐cell viruses causing transient infections, bacteriophage (phage) predators of bacteria and archaea, endogenous retroviruses and viruses causing persistent and latent infections. High‐throughput, inexpensive, sensitive sequencing methods and metagenomics now make it possible to study the contribution dsDNA, ssDNA and RNA virus‐like particles make to the human virome, and in particular the intestinal virome.

Aim

To review and evaluate the pioneering studies that have attempted to characterise the human virome and generated an increased interest in understanding how the intestinal virome might contribute to maintaining health, and the pathogenesis of chronic diseases.

Methods

Relevant virome‐related articles were selected for review following extensive language‐ and date‐unrestricted, electronic searches of the literature.

Results

The human intestinal virome is personalised and stable, and dominated by phages. It develops soon after birth in parallel with prokaryotic communities of the microbiota, becoming established during the first few years of life. By infecting specific populations of bacteria, phages can alter microbiota structure by killing host cells or altering their phenotype, enabling phages to contribute to maintaining intestinal homeostasis or microbial imbalance (dysbiosis), and the development of chronic infectious and autoimmune diseases including HIV infection and Crohn's disease, respectively.

Conclusions

Our understanding of the intestinal virome is fragmented and requires standardised methods for virus isolation and sequencing to provide a more complete picture of the virome, which is key to explaining the basis of virome‐disease associations, and how enteric viruses can contribute to disease aetiologies and be rationalised as targets for interventions.
Systematic review with meta‐analysis: the association between hepatitis E seroprevalence and haemodialysis
Authors: Haffar S. , Bazerbachi F. , Leise M. D. , Dillon J. J. , Albright R. C. , Murad M. H. , Kamath P. S. , Watt K. D.
Published: September 2017

Background

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection appears to be more common than previously thought. HEV seroprevalence in patients on maintenance haemodialysis (HD) is unclear with a range from 0% to 44%. In addition, risk factors of transmission of HEV in patients on haemodialysis are unknown.

Aim

To perform a systematic review and meta‐analysis of HEV seroprevalence in HD patients compared with controls.

Methods

A systematic search of several databases identified all observational studies with comparative arms. Two reviewers extracted data and assessed the methodological quality. A random‐effects model was used for pooled odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of positive anti‐HEV IgG in both groups. Heterogeneity and publication bias were assessed with appropriate tests.

Results

We identified 31 studies from 17 countries between 1994 and 2016. Sixteen studies were judged to have adequate quality and 15 to have moderate limitations. HEV infection was more prevalent in patients on haemodialysis compared with controls (OR 2.47, 95% CI 1.79‐3.40, I2 = 75.2%, P < .01). We conducted several subgroup analyses without difference in results. Egger regression test did not suggest publication bias (P = .83). Specific risk factors of HEV transmission in patients on haemodialysis were not clearly identified.

Conclusions

Hepatitis E virus infection is more prevalent in patients on haemodialysis compared with non‐haemodialysis control groups. Further studies are needed to determine risk factors of acquisition, impact on health, and risk for chronic HEV especially among those patients going to receive organ transplantation.
Functional morphology and neuronal innervation of the prothoracic defence gland in Timema
Authors: Stolz Konrad
Published: September 2017

Timema is the most basal genus of Phasmatodea and the sister group to the remaining stick and leaf‐insects (Euphasmatodea). An autapomorphy of all phasmids is the paired prothoracic exocrine defence glands. In this study, the anatomy and innervation of the defence glands in Timema petita and Timema chumash are described and compared with the data on Euphasmatodea. In all phasmids, the glands consist of a cuticular epithelium, a secretory epithelium and muscular fibres that compress the lumen. In Timematodea, the muscular part of the gland is less developed than in Euphasmatodea and the ejection of the defence secretion depends on the dorsal longitudinal neck muscles. On the neuroanatomical level, Timema petita and Timema chumash lack neurons that are involved in the independent contraction of the gland in euphasmids. In both studied species of Timema, neck muscles play an active role in the gland function which is not observed in any other phasmid. Considering the basal position of this genus, this supports the hypothesis that in euphasmids, the muscular part of the gland evolved from the dorsal longitudinal neck muscles. Additionally, the same nerves that innervate the dorsal longitudinal neck muscles in all Polyneoptera also innervate the defence glands in phasmids.
Examining the win‐win proposition of shared value across contexts: Implications for future application
Authors: Voltan Annika , Hervieux Chantal , Mills Albert
Published: September 2017

This article examines the concept of creating shared value (CSV) as articulated by Michael Porter and Mark Kramer, in non‐Western and Western contexts. We define non‐Western contexts as those in so‐called “developing” countries and emerging economies, whereas Western ones pertain to dominant thinking in “developed” regions. We frame our research in postcolonial theory and offer an overview of existing critiques of CSV. We conduct a critical discourse analysis of 66 articles to identify how CSV is being cited by authors, and potential underlying power dynamics that affect its relevance for non‐Western contexts. Our review exposes increasingly critical views about the paradoxical positioning of CSV as an instrumental concept that can offer “win‐win” solutions, particularly from those working in non‐Western settings. Western perspectives generally tend to be more supportive of its instrumental nature, but also recognize the increasing complexity of the business‐society nexus and stakeholder engagement. We argue that the CSV framework requires further development to maintain credibility and applicability, especially in non‐Western domains.
Sustainable banking in Latin American developing countries: Leading to (mutual) prosperity
Authors: Forcadell Francisco Javier , Aracil Elisa
Published: September 2017

This article examines multinational banks’ (MNBs) approaches to corporate social responsibility (CSR) in developing countries’ subsidiaries, particularly in Latin America. Building on in‐depth case studies of two MNBs that are based in Europe and market leaders in Latin America, we analyze their CSR motivations and outcomes in host countries. We examine institutional environments by applying the national business system framework, and we suggest missing categories in its financial and educational dimensions. We theorize how institutional necessity determines MNBs' CSR in developing countries. Finally, we examine the CSR outcomes in Latin America, where banks’ responsible conduct has led to major improvements in educational levels and financial inclusion. These improvements alleviate poverty and enhance both country's social wellbeing and MNBs’ legitimacy, leading to mutual prosperity.
Corporate social responsibility and employee outcomes: The role of country context
Authors: McNamara Tay K. , Carapinha Rene , Pitt‐Catsouphes Marcie , Valcour Monique , Lobel Sharon
Published: September 2017

This study examined the association between employee perceptions of two foci of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and work attitudes in different countries. Using data collected as part of a multinational research project with a core team in the United States, we found that perceptions of externally focused CSR enactment were positively associated with employee engagement and affective commitment. Perceptions of internally focused CSR enactment were positively associated with affective commitment but not with employee engagement. Analyses across countries revealed more cultural than economic differences. For example, perceptions of internally focused CSR enactment were consistently associated with affective commitment across cultural contexts, indicating that they might serve as a general foundation for building commitment. Perceptions of externally focused CSR were more strongly associated with affective commitment in Anglo than in Confucian and Latin American countries, suggesting a need for country‐specific tailoring. Based on these results, we provided recommendations for planning and implementation of CSR.
Ovarian cancer stem cells promote tumour immune privilege and invasion via CCL5 and regulatory T cells
Authors: You Y , Li Y , Li M , Lei M , Wu M , Qu Y , Yuan Y , Chen T , Jiang H
Published: September 2017

Emerging evidence indicates a link between the increased proportion of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and reduced survival in patients who have been diagnosed with cancer. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) have been indicated to play a vital role in tumour initiation, drug resistance and recurrence. However, the relationship between Tregs and CSCs remains largely unknown. Here, we sorted out ovarian cancer stem-like side population (SP) cells and CD133+ cells to investigate the influence of ovarian CSCs on Tregs. Among the various immune-related molecules that we assessed, C-C motif chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5) was the most elevated in ovarian CSCs relative to that in the non-CSCs. The expression of its receptor, C-C motif chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5), was also increased on the surface of Tregs in ovarian cancer patients. This receptor-ligand expression profile indicated that ovarian CSCs recruit Tregs via CCL5–CCR5 interactions. We further assessed the expression of interleukin (IL)-10 in Tregs cultured with different cancer cells. Tregs cultured in conditioned medium (CM) from ovarian CD133+ cells expressed a higher level of IL-10 than Tregs cultured in CM from CD133– cells, indicating that Tregs exert pronounced immune-inhibitory functions in CSC-rich environments. Furthermore, co-culture with ovarian cancer cell lines induced the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9) in Tregs which, in turn, enhanced the degradation of the extracellular matrix and enabled the invasion of tumour cells, thereby facilitating tumour metastasis. For the first time, to our knowledge, our findings describe the relationship between ovarian CSCs and Tregs, and demonstrated that these two cell populations co-operate to promote tumour immune tolerance and enhance tumour progression.
Eosinophil‐rich trichoblastic carcinoma with aggressive clinical course in a young man
Authors: Toberer Ferdinand , Rütten Arno , Requena Luis , Kazakov Dmitry V. , Enk Alexander , Hartschuh Wolfgang , Haenssle Holger A.
Published: September 2017

We present the case of a 35‐year‐old man who developed a follicular differentiated cutaneous carcinoma with an eosinophil‐rich infiltrate and an aggressive clinical behavior. After an in‐depth histopathological investigation the diagnosis of trichoblastic carcinoma was made. Over the course of the disease the patient developed a cutaneous in‐transit metastasis as well as an axillary lymph node metastasis 18 months after the excision of the primary tumor on his back. Based on a literature review we discuss the different concepts behind the term “trichoblastic carcinoma” and we summarize the clinical and histological details of previously reported cases. Furthermore, we focus on the phenomenon of tumor‐associated eosinophilia.
Cytological diagnostic clues in poorly differentiated squamous cell carcinomas of the breast: Streaming arrangement, necrotic background, nucleolar enlargement and cannibalism of cancer cells
Authors: Kinoshita M. , Matsuda Y. , Arai T. , Soejima Y. , Sawabe M. , Honma N.
Published: September 2017

Objective

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a rare histological type of breast cancer. The cytological diagnosis of non‐keratinising, poorly differentiated SCC is often difficult, and distinguishing it from invasive ductal carcinoma or apocrine carcinoma (AC) is especially challenging. We aimed to define the diagnostic cytological features of poorly differentiated SCC of the breast.

Methods

We studied the cytological findings of poorly differentiated SCC (n=10) and compared them to those of IDC (n=15) and AC (n=14). The following six cytological features were evaluated: streaming arrangement, nucleolar enlargement, dense nuclei, cannibalism, atypical keratinocytes and necrotic background.

Results

SCC exhibited significantly higher frequencies of streaming arrangement (70% vs 6.7%, P=.002), nucleolar enlargement (80% vs 27%, P=.02), and necrotic background (80% vs 36%, P=.002) than invasive ductal carcinoma. The detection of two or three of these features yielded a higher sensitivity (80%) and specificity (93%) for the diagnosis of SCC. Streaming arrangement (70% vs 0%, P<.001), cannibalism (60% vs 0%, P=.002), and a necrotic background (80% vs 36%, P=.047) were all significantly more frequent in SCC than in AC. When distinguishing SCC from AC, the presence of two or three of these features yielded a high sensitivity (80%) and specificity (100%).

Conclusions

Cytological features such as a streaming arrangement, a necrotic background, nucleolar enlargement and cannibalism are useful indicators for the diagnosis of SCC of the breast. As such, greater attention should be paid to these morphological features in daily clinical practice.
Morphology quiz: Renal disease and cytopathology
Authors: Martínez‐Girón R. , Martínez‐Torre C. , Martínez‐Torre S.
Published: September 2017

The authors provide a self‐assessment style quiz on various types of urinary cast and their clinical relevance.