bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Group size constraints may mask underlying similarities in social structure: a comparison of female elephant societies
Authors: Shetty Nandini , Keerthipriya P. , Vidya T.N.C.
Published: January 2017

We report on female Asian elephant social structure in Nagarahole and Bandipur National Parks (Kabini population), southern India, and examine the role of group size in affecting the outcome of social structure analysis in female elephants, which show high fission-fusion dynamics. Based on five years of data, we found the Kabini association network structured into highly modular communities that we call clans. We then modified the dataset (to obtain the Kabini 500-m dataset) to match sampling methods previously used in a study each of Asian (Uda Walawe) and African savannah (Samburu) elephants, so that network and association statistics could be compared across populations. Measures of association and network structure previously used were more similar amongst the Asian elephant populations compared to Samburu. The Samburu population formed a hierarchically-nested multilevel society whereas the Asian populations did not. However, we found hierarchical clustering levels in all three populations using Louvain community detection. Moreover, the average community sizes obtained through the Louvain method were not significantly different across populations, indicating basic similarities in social structure. Since fission-fusion dynamics allow for community members to form groups of different sizes, we examined the effect of average group size on association and network statistics. Higher average association index and degree, and lower average path length in Samburu compared to the Kabini 500-m dataset were explained by the larger average group size in Samburu. Thus, underlying similarities in the social networks of species showing fission-fusion dynamics may be obscured by differences in average group size.

Significance Statement

Various measures of associations and social network analyses have been used to compare social structures of different populations. We studied the social structure of female Asian elephants in a southern Indian population and compared it with those of a Sri Lankan Asian elephant population and an African savannah elephant population. We showed that, while there were social differences between the Asian and African savannah elephant populations using previous methods, there were basic similarities across all three populations using a method of network community detection. This discrepancy across analyses partly stemmed from differences in average group size between populations. Average group size in fission-fusion societies variously affected different association and network statistics, which has implications for inferences about social structure.
No evidence for the radiation time lag model after whole genome duplications in Teleostei
Authors: Laurent Sacha , Salamin Nicolas , Robinson-Rechavi Marc
Published: January 2017

The short and long term effects of polyploidization on the evolutionary fate of lineages is still unclear despite much interest. First recognized in land plants, it has become clear that polyploidization is widespread in eukaryotes, notably at the origin of vertebrates and teleost fishes. Many hypotheses have been proposed to link the evolutionary success of lineages and whole genome duplications. For instance, the radiation time lag model suggests that paleopolyploidy would favour the apparition of key innovations, although the evolutionary success would not become apparent until a later dispersion event. Some results indicate that this model may be observed during land plant evolution. In this work, we test predictions of the radiation time lag model using both fossil data and molecular phylogenies in ancient and more recent teleost whole genome duplications. We fail to find any evidence of delayed evolutionary success after any of these events and conclude that paleopolyploidization still remains to be unambiguously linked to evolutionary success in fishes.
The Leading-Edge Vortex of Swift Wings
Authors: Muir Rowan Eveline , Viola Ignazio Maria
Published: January 2017

1

Recent investigations on the aerodynamics of natural fliers have illuminated the significance of the Leading-Edge Vortex (LEV) for lift generation in a variety of flight conditions. A well documented example of an LEV is that generated by aircraft with highly swept, delta shaped wings. While the wing aerodynamics of a manoeuvring aircraft, a bird gliding and a bird in flapping flight vary significantly, it is believed that this existing knowledge will serve to add understanding to the complex aerodynamics of natural fliers. In this investigation, the wing of a common swiftApus apusis simplified to a model with swept wings and a sharp leading-edge, making it readily comparable to a model delta shaped wing of the same leading-edge geometry. Particle image velocimetry provides an understanding of the effect of the tapering swift wing on LEV development and stability, compared with the delta wing model. For the first time a dual LEV is recorded on a swift shaped wing, where it is found across all tested conditions. It is shown that the span-wise location of LEV breakdown is governed by the local chord rather than Reynolds number or angle of attack. These findings suggest that the common swift is able to generate a dual LEV while gliding, potentially delaying vortex breakdown by exploiting other features non explored here, such as wing twist and flexibility. It is further suggested that the vortex system could be used to damp loading fluctuations, reducing energy expenditure, rather than for lift augmentation.
viGEN: An open source pipeline for the detection and quantification of viral RNA in human tumors
Authors: Bhuvaneshwar Krithika , Song Lei , Madhavan Subha , Gusev Yuriy
Published: January 2017

An estimated 17% of cancers worldwide are associated with infectious causes. The extent and biological significance of viral presence/infection in actual tumor samples is generally unknown but could be measured using human transcriptome (RNA-seq) data from tumor samples.

We present an open source bioinformatics pipeline viGEN, which combines existing well-known and novel RNA-seq tools for not only the detection and quantification of viral RNA, but also variants in the viral transcripts.

The pipeline includes 4 major modules: The first module allows to align and filter out human RNA sequences; the second module maps and count (remaining un-aligned) reads against reference genomes of all known and sequenced human viruses; the third module quantifies read counts at the individual viral genes level thus allowing for downstream differential expression analysis of viral genes between experimental and controls groups. The fourth module calls variants in these viruses. To the best of our knowledge, there are no publicly available pipelines or packages that would provide this type of complete analysis in one open source package.

In this paper, we applied the viGEN pipeline to two case studies. We first demonstrate the working of our pipeline on a large public dataset, the TCGA cervical cancer cohort. We also performed additional in-depth analyses on a small focused study of TCGA liver cancer patients. In this cohort, we perform viral-gene quantification, viral-variant extraction and survival analysis. This allowed us to find differentially expressed viral-transcripts and viral-variants between the groups of patients, and connect them to clinical outcome.

From our analyses, we show that we were able to successfully detect the human papilloma virus among the TCGA cervical cancer patients. We compared the viGEN pipeline with two metagenomics tools and demonstrate similar sensitivity/specificity. We were also able to quantify viral-transcripts and extract viral-variants using the liver cancer dataset. The results presented corresponded with published literature in terms of rate of detection, viral gene expression patterns and impact of several known variants of HBV genome. Results also show novel information about distinct patterns of expression and co-expression in Hepatitis B and the Human Endogenous Retrovirus (HERV) K113 viruses.

This pipeline is generalizable, and can be used to provide novel biological insights into the significance of viral and other microbial infections in complex diseases, tumorigeneses and cancer immunology. The source code, with example data and tutorial is available at:https://github.com/ICBI/viGEN/.
Procedures for cryogenic X-ray ptychographic imaging of biological samples
Authors: Yusuf M. , Zhang F. , Chen B. , Bhartiya A. , Cunnea K. , Wagner U. , Cacho-Nerin F. , Schwenke J. , Robinson I. K.
Published: January 2017

Biological sample-preparation procedures have been developed for imaging human chromosomes under cryogenic conditions. A new experimental setup, developed for imaging frozen samples using beamline I13 at Diamond Light Source, is described. This manuscript describes the equipment and experimental procedures as well as the authors' first ptychographic reconstructions using X-rays.
Communication evaluation and measurement
Authors: Zerfass Ansgar , Verčič Dejan , Volk Sophia Charlotte
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the status quo of communication evaluation and measurement practices in communication departments of companies, non-profits, and other organizations across Europe.

Design/methodology/approach

The study argues that the challenge to conduct reliable measurement is threefold: first, communication professionals have to understand and develop skills how to conduct evaluation; second, they have to evaluate whether communication activities have reached those goals in practice; and finally, they have to use those insights to advance and manage their future activities. These aspects are elaborated in the literature review. A quantitative survey of 1,601 professionals from 40 European countries was conducted to research prerequisites, implementation and benefits of communication measurement and compare practices across types of organizations.

Findings

Although robust knowledge of empirical research methods and their application for measuring communication effects is indispensable, many practitioners lack the necessary expertise to conduct reliable evaluation and measurement. Communication departments seldom measure communication effects on stakeholders and organizational goals. Many remain focused on media and channels. Last but not least, organizations do not fully exploit the potential of measurement data for strategically planning future communication activities.

Practical implications

The findings highlight the need to reconsider current education and training in communication research methods and their application in corporate practice. Knowledge about conducting applied research is as important as asking meaningful questions and using insights for management decisions in a corporate environment. Evaluation methods are often discussed, but individual skills and the organizational use of insights are important as well. This might be tackled through additional training in social science research techniques, sophisticated valuation methods, and decision making.

Originality/value

The large-scale study shows that communication measurement practices are still in a nascent stage. Joint efforts of academics and professional associations have not really changed the situation until now. The three dimensions used in this research (skills, practices, and utilization) can be used to assess the measurement readiness of individual organizations, to conduct further research in other regions, and to identify future challenges for advancing the field.
An uncertain programming model for preventive maintenance scheduling
Authors: Maleki Hamed , Yang Yingjie
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to illustrate an uncertain programming model for scheduling of preventive maintenance (PM) actions. The PM scheduling, in which PM actions are performed under fixed intervals, is solved by grey systems theory.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper applied the grey evaluation method based on triangular whitenization weight functions which includes two classes: endpoint evaluation method and center-point evaluation method.

Findings

Two methods give the same results based on endpoint and center-point triangular whitenization weight functions. For validation, the results were compared by Cassady’s method.

Originality/value

The scheduling of PM is crucial in reliability and maintenance engineering. Hundreds of parts compose complex machines that require replacement and/or repairing. It is helpful to reduce the outage loss on frequent repair/replacement parts and avoid lack of maintenance of the equipment by controlling the equipment maintenance frequency.
Role of market orientation in sustainable performance
Authors: Kazemian Soheil , Abdul Rahman Rashidah , Mohd Sanusi Zuraidah , Adewale Abideen A.
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Without prejudice to the efficacy of other poverty alleviation mechanisms, micro-financing arguably enjoys relative prominence. However, notwithstanding the remarkable loan repayment rate that the microfinance firms report, they still face the challenge of sustainability. The paper aims to provide insights into how three dimensions of market orientation, namely, customer orientation, competitor orientation and inter-function coordination, affect the two aspects of the sustainability of microfinance institutions (MFIs; management and financial).

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve this goal, this study focuses on Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM), a leading microfinance provider which is also the largest MFI in South East Asia. Data elicited via a survey questionnaire administered on 190 management staff of AIM across Malaysia are subjected to statistical analysis via the partial least square-structural equation modeling using SmartPLS 2.0.

Findings

The results provide empirical evidences that indicate that management sustainability is significantly influenced by customer orientation and inter-function coordination. However, only customer orientation affects the financial sustainability of AIM. Nevertheless, competitor orientation has non-significant effects on both aspects of sustainability of AIM.

Research limitations/implications

The result of the paper contributes to the literature in understanding the long-term sustainable financial and social performance-based market orientation.

Originality/value

Findings are useful for policy makers, management of MFIs, practitioners and academics to enhance microfinance system. Managerial implications, limitation of the study and suggestions for future research are also included.
Does microcredit improve wellbeing? Evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Rokhim Rofikoh , Sikatan George Adam Sukoco , Wibisono Lubis Arief , Setyawan Mohammad Irwan
Published: January 2017

Purpose

This study aims to investigate whether microcredit programme has a positive impact on productive poors. Several areas of investigation include clients’ borrowing behaviour, level of savings and before-and-after psychological well-being comparison.

Design/methodology/approach

A case-study survey of 398 clients of a microcredit programme run by a charity organisation in Jakarta, Indonesia, was conducted in 2012. Descriptive statistics and cross-tabulation analyses were then performed to show the variation of different variables among the respondents and how they correlate with socio-demographic indicators.

Findings

The result shows an indication that microcredit brings positive impact on the clients’ welfare; however, the effect is not linear and there might be an optimum borrowing frequency. Moreover, the output also suggests that age, level of income and level of savings are three important determinant of borrowing behaviour.

Research limitations/implications

Although the result can be justified, it is necessary to be cautious about its generalisability because of limited number of sample and non-randomised sample selection.

Originality/value

Although the microcredit programme examined in this study has been operating since 2010, there is by far no comprehensive study to assess its impact on the welfare of the clients. This study attempts to fill in the gap by providing an analysis on how microcredit programme increases the welfare of the clients. In addition, as part of the continuous improvement programme, the study also identifies a number of factors that might indicate the clients’ borrowing behaviour.
Financial inclusion in India: an application of TOPSIS
Authors: Yadav Priyanka , Sharma Anil Kumar
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to combine the critical parameters used to study financial inclusion into a composite index. The idea is to rank Indian states and union territories (UTs) on the basis of this index, determine change in ranks during 2011 to 2014 and identify factors affecting high/low scores on the index.

Design/methodology/approach

Data for the study were collected from secondary sources published by Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and Central Statistical Organization. Applying technique of order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS), a composite multi-dimensional index of financial inclusion (IFI) has been built by using three broad parameters of penetration, availability and usage of banking services. Factors significantly influencing scores of states/UTs on IFI were identified using multiple regression analysis.

Findings

The value of financial inclusion for India on composite IFI has increased by 0.045 points during the study period. Share of agriculture to state gross domestic product, literacy ratio, population density, infrastructure development and farmer suicides are significant factors affecting financial inclusion.

Practical implications

The multi-dimensional IFI is a useful tool to measure financial inclusion using several parameters for various states/regions. The index can also be used to compare the performance of states/regions over same/different periods.

Originality/value

This paper is unique in its attempt to construct multi-dimensional IFI for Indian states/UTs by applying TOPSIS. It will prove useful for future researchers by combining several aspects of financial inclusion into single index.
Civic engagement among the youth: empirical evidence from Kashmir, Pakistan
Authors: Rafique Zain , Khoo Suet Leng , Idrees Muhammad Waqas
Published: January 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to examines the level of civic engagement among the youth of Kashmir, Pakistan. The research examined three different aspects of civic engagement (i.e. civic sensitivity, civic responsibility and level of collectivism (common-good) using 26 indicators. The study has applied a mixed-method approach to inspect the relationship of variables with level of civic engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was designed and administered in all three districts of Muzaffarabad division of Kashmir, Pakistan. Regression analysis, analysis of variance and correlation were conducted to explore the level of civic engagement among youth.

Findings

The result indicates that the level of civic engagement among the youth of Kashmir has a great potential for the enhancement of social capital, a pre-requisite for social, economic and democratic development.

Originality/value

The work is 100 per cent original based on primary data.
Logics and rationalisations underpinning entrepreneurial decision-making
Authors: Vershinina Natalia , Barrett Rowena , McHardy Peter
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the logics that expert entrepreneurs use when faced with a critical incident threat.

Design/methodology/approach

Attempts have been made to define “entrepreneurial logic”. This paper is influenced by Sarasvathy’s work on high-performance entrepreneurs, which finds that when faced with uncertainty entrepreneurs employ unconventional logic, and encompasses later research acknowledging social contexts where entrepreneurs operate. A typology of decision-making logics is developed, taking into account the situation of crisis. Seven expert entrepreneurs who faced crisis and, despite this, are still successfully operating businesses were interviewed. The paper develops a critical incidents methodology.

Findings

Experienced entrepreneurs were found to tend towards causal logic when “the stakes were high” and the decision may affect the survival of their business. They also weigh up options before acting and tend to seek advice from trusted “others” within their network before or after they have made a decision. A mixture of causal and intuitive logic is evident in decisions dealing with internal business problems.

Research limitations/implications

The decisions that entrepreneurs make shape and define their business and their ability to recover from crisis. If researchers can develop an understanding of how entrepreneurs make decisions – what information they draw upon, what support systems they use and the logic of their decision-making and rationalisation – then this can be used to help structure support.

Originality/value

By exploring decision-making through critical incidents we offer an innovative way to understand context-rich, first-hand experiences and behaviours of entrepreneurs around a focal point.
Entrepreneurial mindset and the role of universities as strategic drivers of entrepreneurship
Authors: Jabeen Fauzia , Faisal Mohd. Nishat , I. Katsioloudes Marios
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide insight into the factors that influence the mindset of youth in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in choosing entrepreneurship as their future employment. It also suggests the pathway to improve the role of the universities as strategic drivers in inducing an entrepreneurial mindset.

Design/methodology/approach

An exhaustive literature review of extant research followed by an exploratory study was conducted. Furthermore, to understand factors influencing the role of universities, interpretive structural modelling methodology is applied to evolve a hierarchy-based relationship among the strategic factors.

Findings

The results of empirical research suggest that young people in the UAE rank entrepreneurship as their first employment choice. However, most of them have not attended any formal entrepreneurship-related course in school or in college. The study also suggests that individual and environmental factors influence the entrepreneurial mindset of both males and females in the UAE. The structural model developed in the study indicates that to give an impetus to the entrepreneurial mindset, the government must create a supporting environment with UAE universities playing the role of a catalyst.

Practical implications

Professional entrepreneurship instruction is seen as a strategic tool to stimulate financial and societal growth. The results could provide insights for both entrepreneurship educators and policymakers and will boost their commitment to promote the entrepreneurial mindset within UAE society by enhancing and developing traits associated with entrepreneurial success. The results support recognition of the factors that induce educational programmes and economic incentives targeted at the development of sustainable entrepreneurial culture and ventures in the UAE.

Originality/value

The study is an effort to highlight the role of higher education in envisaging and cultivating entrepreneurs in a fast-growing developing country through a survey and a hierarchy-based model.
Determinants of micro and small enterprises growth in Kenya
Authors: Shibia Adan Guyo , Barako Dulacha Galgallo
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of investment climate and firm-specific variables on the growth of micro and small enterprises (MSEs) in Kenya.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper utilized a cross-section survey data of 2,536 MSEs in Kenya. Using the sales growth as the dependent variable, the paper tests the hypotheses that investment climate variables – entrepreneur perception of fairness and affordability of the courts in dealing with commercial disputes, access to formal credit, connections to utilities, crime incidences; and firm-specific resources affect MSE growth.

Findings

Positive entrepreneur perception of the fairness and affordability of the courts, access to formal credit, connections to utilities, lower incidences of crime, entrepreneur education and experience positively affect MSE growth.

Research limitations/implications

Although the context of the study is Kenya, the study has relevance to other developing countries especially Sub-Saharan Africa due to institutional similarities. The paper, however, uses cross-sectional data, which unlike panel data, do not allow for establishing dynamic relationships. This could be a potential area for further research.

Originality/value

The paper is among the first to establish effects of entrepreneur perception on MSE growth with regards the court system in dealing with business disputes in terms of fairness, timeliness, affordability and enforcement. The paper also extends limited extant research on MSE growth constraints with regards to incidences of insecurity, access to bank credit, connections to utilities and internal resources.
SME international performance in Latin America
Authors: Bianchi Constanza , Glavas Charmaine , Mathews Shane
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from emerging markets in Latin America are increasingly engaging in internationalization. Nevertheless, there is limited research into how these firms achieve international performance. The purpose of this paper is to examine managerial and technology-related capabilities and their impact on international performance of SMEs.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on data from 233 Chilean SMEs, a model is developed and tested using structural equation modeling. Specifically, the model considers the role of international entrepreneurial orientation and internet technology capabilities on SME international performance, taking into account the mediating effect of international entrepreneurial opportunity recognition and technology-related international networks.

Findings

Results show that international entrepreneurial opportunity recognition and international networks mediate the relationship between international entrepreneurial orientation and internet technology capabilities on SME international performance.

Research limitations/implications

The context for the study is Chile. However, this is an important emerging market in Latin America with a strong focus on SME internationalization. The research design is cross-sectional and so does not allow for any causal claims to be made.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the relatively scant but increasing number of empirical studies which investigate the link between internationalization strategy and SME performance in emerging market contexts.
Unlocking behaviors of long-term service consumers: the role of action inertia
Authors: Leppäniemi Matti , Jayawardhena Chanaka , Karjaluoto Heikki , Harness David
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the antecedents of word-of-mouth (WOM) in long-term service settings. Specifically, the authors examine the moderating role of action inertia in the relationships between satisfaction and repatronage intention, satisfaction and WOM, and repatronage intention and WOM.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed model was empirically tested using survey data from 1,385 telecommunications service subscribers. The data were analyzed using partial least squares path modeling.

Findings

Results suggest that a positive link between repatronage intention and WOM, hereto a neglected relationship in the marketing literature, in contrast to previous literature, the behaviors of long-term customers are not predictable, and action inertia strengthens satisfaction – WOM and repatronage intention – WOM links and weakens satisfaction – repatronage intention link.

Research limitations/implications

This study examines customers of a utilitarian service. To further determine the potential of the model, it is desirable to explore the validity of the model in other service settings, particularly those with high hedonic values.

Practical implications

The study provides valuable insights into repatronage intention – WOM link, with particular emphasis on the measurement and analysis of action inertia. This is important in understanding and evaluating inertia influences and identification of the drivers of WOM. These insights can be used by managers to better allocate their resources when investing in customer loyalty-building exercises and in generating WOM.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the literature in three main ways. First, it examines the nuances of customer loyalty in continuous service contexts. Second, the study empirically tests the role of repatronage intention as an antecedent of WOM. Third, the study introduces and tests the moderating role of action inertia on positive WOM.
Customer delight: universal remedy or a double-edged sword?
Authors: Ludwig Nadine L. , Heidenreich Sven , Kraemer Tobias , Gouthier Matthias
Published: January 2017

Purpose

Over the last years, the concept of customer delight has moved into the focus of attention. The necessity of surprise for achieving customer delight and the problem of increased customer expectation (spiral of expectations) have been controversially discussed in the literature. The purpose of the paper is therefore to investigate whether customer delight necessarily requires surprise and whether a misdirected delight strategy can backfire by creating disloyal customers.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs a 2 (after-sales extra value: yes vs no)×2 (knowledge about the extra value: yes vs no) between-subject, scenario-based experiment (n=472) in a hotel environment and partial least squares structural equation modeling to analyze the data.

Findings

Study results show that surprise is not a necessary prerequisite for achieving customer delight, but its presence strengthens the delight experience for the customer, positively impacting customer loyalty intentions. Conversely, a surprising nonoccurrence of an expected delight measure causes anger, inducing negative word of mouth and reduced repurchase intentions.

Practical implications

To pursue a sustainable customer delight approach, companies should recognize that they do not need to surprise their customers on every occasion, but rather ensure that customers do not fall short of anticipated delightful events.

Originality/value

The current research strives to contribute to the theory and practice by shedding light on two so far not appropriately addressed research areas of customer delight: the necessity of surprise to evoke customer delight and the consequences of absent but expected delight measures.
Investigation and optimization of machining parameters in drilling of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites
Authors: K. Shunmugesh , Kavan Panneerselvam
Published: January 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to attempt to use grey relational analysis (GRA) coupled with Taguchi technique for the optimization of machining parameters (cutting speed, feed rate and drill bit type) with multiple performance characteristics of delamination factor, surface roughness and circularity in drilling of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) along the fiber direction.

Design/methodology/approach

Machining trials involved drilling of 6-mm diameter holes on 8-mm-thick CFRP plates was performed according to L27 (313) Taguchi’s orthogonal array technique using the drill material of high speed steel (HSS), Titanium Nitride (TiN) and Titanium Aluminium Nitride (TiAlN). Analysis of variance has been used find the effect, percentage contribution and significance of the process parameters, namely, cutting speed, feed rate and drill bit type.

Findings

The Taguchi technique is combined with the GRA to find the optimum process parameter which minimizes the delamination factor, surface roughness and circularity within the range of parameters investigated. The effective implementation of the hybrid approach helps to produce quality and defect free holes.

Originality/value

Experimental investigation on delamination factor, surface roughness and circularity in drilling of CFRP along the fiber direction using Taguchi-GRA was seldom reported.
The river echoes with laughter: a child‐centred analysis of social change in Amazonia
Authors: Morelli Camilla
Published: January 2017

This article examines radical social, cultural, and political changes taking place in Amazonia from the perspective of indigenous children and youth: a group who, despite their demographic prevalence, have received limited attention in the regional literature. Drawing on fieldwork with Matses people in Peru, I consider how children and youth are playing a critical role in the transition from a hunter‐gatherer, forest‐based society towards a riverine lifestyle that is increasingly engaged in trade, the market economy, and exchanges withchotac, or non‐indigenous people. I argue that by engaging with their surroundings through playing and working, Matses children are becoming affectively attached to some parts of the world rather than others. This represents a purposeful shift from the lifestyle and worldviews of older generations and highlights how children are active agents who shape possible future directions of Matses society and transform the community's relationships with the world. Accordingly, I propose a child‐centred view of social change that seeks to demonstrate the implications of children's creativity and agency for society at large and its future development.
Research–teaching yin–yang? An empirical study of accounting and finance academics in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Hancock Phil , Marriott Neil , Duff Angus
Published: January 2017

This article uses a survey to explore relations between teaching and research of accounting and finance academics in Australia and New Zealand (ANZ). Previous research on the relationship between research and teaching is inconclusive. Two recent studies consider research–teaching relations in the accounting discipline in South Africa and the United Kingdom (UK). This investigation extends work undertaken in the UK to ANZ. Contrary to expectations, research‐active faculty see little merit in integrating research with teaching, while more junior and teaching‐oriented faculty do. In addition, the empirical model underlying the teaching–research Gestalt is remarkably similar to both ANZ and the UK.
Inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase‐9 by a barbiturate‐nitrate hybrid ameliorates dextran sulphate sodium‐induced colitis: effect on inflammation‐related genes
Authors: O'Sullivan Shane , Wang Jun , Pigott Maria T , Docherty Neil , Boyle Noreen , Lis Samuel Kana , Gilmer John F , Medina Carlos
Published: January 2017

Background and Purpose

Matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) is up‐regulated in ulcerative colitis and implicated in the pathology of the disease. In this study, we have examined the effects of a barbiturate‐based MMP inhibitor incorporating a nitric oxide donor/mimetic group (dinitrate‐barbiturate) on the intestinal injury induced by dextran sulphate sodium (DSS).

Experimental Approach

In vivo experiments were carried out using male Wistar rats given 5% DSS ad libitum in drinking water. The dinitrate‐barbiturate, non‐nitrate equivalent, nitrate side chains alone or vehicle were administered rectally, twice daily. MMP‐9 release was measured by gelatin zymography, and analysis of gene expression was carried out using RT‐qPCR. TaqMan low density arrays were used to evaluate the expression of 91 inflammatory genes in the rat colon.

Key Results

The dinitrate‐barbiturate inhibited the induction and activity of MMP‐9 during DSS colitis in the rat. This occurred in association with significant reductions in the colitic response to DSS as assessed by an established clinical disease activity index and a pathological colitis grade score. The compound modified expression rates of numerous inflammation‐related genes in the colon.

Conclusions and Implications

This study demonstrated the efficacy of the dinitrate‐barbiturate in DSS‐induced colitis. Therefore, barbiturate‐nitrate hybrids may be developed as a promising anti‐inflammatory approach to the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease.
Callous–Unemotional Behaviors in Early Childhood: Measurement, Meaning, and the Influence of Parenting
Authors: Waller Rebecca , Hyde Luke W.
Published: January 2017

Antisocial behavior is costly and harmful to families, communities, and society. With roots in early childhood, antisocial behavior puts children at risk for poor physical and mental health outcomes across development. Callous–unemotional (CU) traits identify a subgroup of youth with particularly severe and stable antisocial behavior. Although much literature has examined CU traits in late childhood and adolescence, researchers are beginning to elucidate the developmental origins of CU traits. In this article, we review research examining the measurement and correlates of CU behaviors in early childhood, along with evidence that these early behaviors predict later measures of CU traits. We then describe research highlighting the role that parents play in the development of CU behaviors in early childhood. Finally, we outline translational implications and ethical considerations for studying CU behaviors and consider the use of the term CU traits in young children.
Acute hemorrhagic leukoencephalitis unresponsive to aggressive immunosuppression
Authors: Sureshbabu Sachin , Babu Raghunath , Garg Amit , Peter Sudhir , Sobhana Chindripu , Mittal Gaurav
Published: January 2017

Background

Acute hemorrhagic leukoencephalitis is the most fulminant form of the inflammatory demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system. The ideal management of this condition is debatable, but aggressive immunosuppressive regimens are mostly recommended.

Case presentation

A 19‐year‐old man presented with sudden onset altered sensorium, seizures, and focal neurological deficit after 2 weeks of fever and malaise. His magnetic resonance imaging showed an asymmetric predominantly posteriorly located T2 hyperintense white matter lesion with hemorrhage evident on gradient recalled echo sequences along with profound edema and mass effect. Decompressive craniectomy, pulse methylprednisolone, intravenous immunoglobulin, plasma exchange, cyclophosphamide and rituximab were tried over the next 24–48 h, which failed to arrest the aggressicve course of the illness.

Conclusions

The clinical diagnosis and management of acute hemorrhagic leukoencephalitis can be challenging. Early recognition and aggressive treatment offers the only hope of meaningful survival in these patients.
Biomarkers upon discontinuation of renal replacement therapy predict 60‐day survival and renal recovery in critically ill patients with acute kidney injury
Authors: Yang Tingting , Sun Si , Zhao Yuliang , Liu Qiang , Han Mei , Lin Liping , Su Baihai , Huang Songmin , Yang Lichuan
Published: January 2017

Introduction: There is no consensus on the specific indications for weaning critically ill patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) off renal replacement therapy (RRT). This study aimed to explore the prognostic value of several biomarkers measured upon discontinuation of RRT for their value in predicting 60‐day survival and renal recovery in an effort to add knowledge to the decision‐making process regarding RRT withdrawal.

Methods: We prospectively enrolled 102 patients with AKI who required RRT from the intensive care unit. Serum osteopontin (sOPN), serum interleukin 6 (sIL‐6), serum cystatin C (sCysC), sIL‐18, serum neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin and urinary IL‐18 and urinary neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin were measured upon discontinuation of RRT. Patients were followed up at 60 days for survival and renal recovery.

Findings: Patients who survived showed lower levels of all serum and urinary biomarkers. Serum OPN (OR 1.029, 95% CI 1.013–1.047, P = 0.001), diabetes (OR 23.157, 95% CI 4.507–118.981, P < 0.001) and APACHE II score (OR 1.308, 95% CI 1.121–1.527, P = 0.001) were independent predictors of 60‐day mortality. Patients whose sOPN values fell within the highest and middle tertiles showed 5.25‐ and 2.31‐fold increased risks of mortality, respectively, compared with that of patients in the lowest tertile. The addition of sOPN to the clinical model resulted in significant net reclassification improvement of 0.453 (P = 0.026) and an integrated discriminative index of 0.155 (P = 0.032). Lower levels of sOPN and sIL‐6 were associated with greater odds of 60‐day survival (AUC 0.812 and 0.741). The AUC value for predicting survival reached its highest level when all biomarkers were combined with urine output (UO) and urinary and serum creatinine upon discontinuation of RRT (0.882). Lower sCysC performed as well as higher UO in predicting 60‐day renal recovery with the greatest AUC of 0.743.

Discussion: Upon discontinuation of RRT, serum and urinary biomarkers, particularly sOPN, may predict 60‐day survival and renal recovery in critically ill patients with AKI. The serum levels of OPN, IL‐6 and CysC may be useful when considering withdrawal of RRT on the basis of conventional indicators.
Percutaneous Closure of Post‐Infarction Ventricular Septal Defects—An Over Decade‐long Experience
Authors: Sabiniewicz Robert , Huczek Zenon , Zbroński Karol , Scisło Piotr , Rymuza Bartosz , Kochman Janusz , Marć Miłosz , Grygier Marek , Araszkiewicz Aleksander , Dziarmaga Mieczysław , Leśniewicz Piotr , Hiczkiewicz Jarosław , Kidawa Michał , Filipiak Krzysztof J. , Opolski Grzegorz
Published: January 2017

Objectives

To report an over decade‐long experience with percutaneous post‐infarction ventricular septal defect (PIVSD) closure.

Background

PIVSDs remains a major clinical challenge with extremely high mortality. Data concerning interventional closure of PIVSD is scarce.

Methods

All percutaneous PIVSD closures performed between 2003 and 2016 in 8 participating centres were identified. Data concerning patients and procedures was acquired. Patients were divided into two groups, based on the time interval between VSD diagnosis and closure (≤14 days—acute phase, >14 days—non‐acute phase).

Results

Twenty‐one percutaneous PIVSD closures were performed on 20 patients (9 females, mean age: 70 years). Mean interval between the diagnosis and the procedure was 182.6 ± 500 days (range: 7–2228). Defects were mostly located in apical (55%) segments of the septum. In 7 cases (33%) the procedure was performed in the acute phase. The closure was technically successful in 17 cases (81%). Four patients died within 48 hours after the procedure. 30‐days survival rate of the entire cohort was 70%. Univariate analysis revealed impact of technical success of the procedure (HR 0.13, CI 0.03–0.68 P = 0.016) and white blood cell count (HR 1.36 per unit increase, CI 1.1–1.69, P = 0.005) on 30‐day mortality.

Conclusions

In a selected population of patients percutaneous PIVSD closure is feasible and provides satisfactory survival rate. Procedural success has a protective impact on survival. Timing of the closure remains controversial. Procedure in the non‐acute phase carries lower mortality, but at the same time introduces a selection bias. Larger registry‐based studies are required.
Systematics of Cladophora spp. (Chlorophyta) from North Carolina, USA, based upon morphology and DNA sequence data with a description of Cladophora subtilissima sp. nov.
Authors: Taylor Robin L. , Bailey Jeffrey Craig , Freshwater David Wilson
Published: January 2017

Identification of Cladophora species is challenging due to conservation of gross morphology, few discrete autapomorphies, and environmental influences on morphology. Twelve species of marine Cladophora were reported from North Carolina waters. Cladophora specimens were collected from inshore and offshore marine waters for DNA sequence and morphological analyses. The nuclear‐encoded rRNA internal transcribed spacer regions (ITS) were sequenced for 105 specimens and used in molecular assisted identification. The ITS1 and ITS2 region was highly variable, and sequences were sorted into ITS Sets of Alignable Sequences (SASs). Sequencing of short hyper‐variable ITS1 sections from Cladophora type specimens was used to positively identify species represented by SASs when the types were made available. Secondary structures for the ITS1 locus were also predicted for each specimen and compared to predicted structures from Cladophora sequences available in GenBank. Nine ITS SASs were identified and representative specimens chosen for phylogenetic analyses of 18S and 28S rRNA gene sequences to reveal relationships with other Cladophora species. Phylogenetic analyses indicated that marine Cladophorales were polyphyletic and separated into two clades, the Cladophora clade and the “Siphonocladales” clade. Morphological analyses were performed to assess the consistency of character states within species, and complement the DNA sequence analyses. These analyses revealed intra‐ and interspecific character state variation, and that combined molecular and morphological analyses were required for the identification of species. One new report, Cladophora dotyana, and one new species Cladophora subtilissima sp. nov., were revealed, and increased the biodiversity of North Carolina marine Cladophora to 14 species.
Taxonomic revision of the Agaraceae with a description of Neoagarum gen. nov. and reinstatement of Thalassiophyllum
Authors: Kawai Hiroshi , Hanyuda Takeaki , Gao Xu , Terauchi Makoto , Miyata Masahiko , Lindstrom Sandra C. , Klochkova Nina G. , Miller Kathy Ann
Published: January 2017

We confirmed the monophyly of the Agaraceae based on phylogenetic analyses of six mitochondrial and six chloroplast gene sequences from Agarum, Costaria, Dictyoneurum, and Thalassiophyllum species, as well as representative species from other laminarialean families. However, the genus Agarum was paraphyletic, comprising two independent clades, A. clathratum/A. turneri and A. fimbriatum/A. oharaense. The latter clade was genetically most closely related to Dictyoneurum spp., and morphologically, the species shared a flattened stipe bearing fimbriae (potential secondary haptera) in the mid‐ to upper portion. The phylogenetic position of Thalassiophyllum differed between the two datasets: in the chloroplast gene phylogeny, Thalassiophyllum was included in the A. clathratum/A. turneri clade, but in the mitochondrial gene phylogeny, it formed an independent clade at the base of the Agaraceae, the same position it took in the phylogeny when the data from both genomes were combined despite a larger number of bp being contributed by the chloroplast gene sequences. Considering the remarkable morphological differences between Thalassiophyllum and other Agaraceae, and the molecular support, we conclude that Thalassiophyllum should be reinstated as an independent genus. Dictyoneurum reticulatum was morphologically distinguishable from D. californicum due to its midrib, but because of their close genetic relationship, further investigations are needed to clarify species‐level taxonomy. In summary, we propose the establishment of a new genus Neoagarum to accommodate A. fimbriatum and A. oharanese and the reinstatement of the genus Thalassiophyllum.