bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Does corporate governance spillover firm performance? A study of valuation of MENA companies
Authors: Arayssi Mahmoud , Jizi Mohammad Issam 
Published: November 2018

PurposeThe aim of the paper is to examine the association of corporate governance (CG), the firms’ characteristics and the financial performance of firms operating in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region after Arab Spring. The study focuses on CG, exemplified by boards’ composition and ownership structure. It also explores the possible moderating effects of environmental social and governance characteristics (ESG), leverage and size on the relationship between CG and the company’s performance.Design/methodology/approachUsing Thomson-Reuters database, a sample of 67 firms was extracted in the MENA region to measure CG and financial performance post Arab Spring from 2012 to 2016. Panel GLS regression random effects is used to quantify the relationship; robustness is checked by using several alternative regressions and specifications to the performance measure.FindingsThe results reveal that board independence (BI) is negatively correlated with firm profitability but ownership concentration and board gender diversification contribute to profits. When firms that voluntarily form a governance committee are examined, ownership is less concentrated. We obtain a stronger impact of good governance on performance in these firms: board composition, in general, and workers’ satisfaction generate more profits; and undertaking ESG activities become a more dispensable activity. The effect of board size (BS) and forming a governance committee are studied and ensuing recommendations are drawn. In addition, relevant internal control of firms’ characteristics that strongly predict firms’ market values are discussed in the context of agency and stewardship theories.Originality/valueDespite the fact that governance-performance nexus has been extensively discussed and examined, the focus of this volume of research is on western developed countries. The growing economies of the MENA countries, and the limited governance-performance literature in the MENA context have created a demand to understand the governance environment in these countries and its influence on firm’s performance. In this region where firms’ owners are mainly family members, governments and/or institutions, governance is typically weak; moreover, ownership concentration is expected to guarantee good performance, as the role of independent directors becomes ineffective. For firms where ownership is more diluted, a sound governance system should be established to replace ownership concentration, and to more efficiently monitor management, and consequently improve firm performance. Therefore, this study not only contributes a summary of the prevailing corporate structure in MENA. Moreover, it explains the settings where both the stewardship and agency theories apply in MENA firms. Some recommendation on the importance of changes to the existing governance rules are highlighted in terms of more rules requiring board independence, board gender diversity, limits on board size and establishing governance committees.
General Patton and Lieutenant Winters: a contrast in leadership
Authors: Swain Jordon , Young Lissa 
Published: November 2018

Synopsis
This video case study exercise uses excerpts from the movie Patton and the HBO series Band of Brothers to juxtapose two military leaders (General George S. Patton and Lieutenant Dick Winters) as they face strikingly similar situations – each interacts with a subordinate experiencing “battle fatigue” (a.k.a. shell shock, PTSD) during the Second World War. Patton appears to lack emotional intelligence (EI) as he apparently loses control and strikes a soldier he believes is demonstrating cowardice. Winters, on the other hand, takes a much different approach when dealing with a subordinate in a similar situation. This case exercise is designed to augment assigned theoretical readings and increase student conceptual and practical insight into the construct of EI.

Research methodology
The analysis of film and biographies is based on historical figures.

Relevant courses and levels
The case is best used with undergraduates in management or leadership courses who may lack the contextual background to discuss certain aspects of leadership. Specifically, the case is designed to explore the elements that comprise EI as well as how EI may affect a leader’s effectiveness. The case study can also be used to challenge common conceptions of how EI may manifest and to discuss the potential “dark side” of EI.

Theoretical bases
This case study exercise centers on the concept of EI, with an emphasis on providing a robust understanding of the concept, including how context may come into play and how EI may have a “dark side.” The exercise could also be used to facilitate discussion of multiple topics normally covered in undergraduate management or leadership courses such as personality, perception and attribution, authentic leadership, toxic leadership, transformational leadership and motivation.
Herbivore culling influences spatio‐temporal patterns of fire in a semiarid savanna
Authors: Smit Izak P. J. , Archibald Sally 
Published: November 2018

Abstract

Fire and herbivory are competitive processes in grassy ecosystems as they both consume above‐ground biomass. Despite this interaction between fire and grazing, herbivore and fire management plans in conservation areas are usually perceived, and hence managed, independently. This study aims to demonstrate the importance of acknowledging and integrating the interdependence between herbivore and fire management.

We compare average proportional area burnt during years when large‐scale culling kept herbivore biomass within a narrow range within the Kruger National Park, South Africa, against subsequent years of no culling when herbivore densities increased to effectively double the biomass. Furthermore, to improve our mechanistic understanding, we utilize natural gradients in rainfall (north to south) and grazing (distance from rivers) to test a conceptual model of how herbivory influences fire occurrence under different rainfall regimes.

Fires were more prevalent during the culling period than thereafter, and the fire suppression effect of increasing grazing biomass was most pronounced in areas closer to rivers (50% reduction within 1 km of rivers).

The “grazer effect” (i.e. difference between % area burnt between low and high grazer biomass years) seems to be more pronounced in arid landscapes than in semiarid landscapes, which in turn is more pronounced than in the mesic landscapes.

Despite elephants being mixed feeders, elephant density influences fire occurrence more than the density of buffaloes or hippopotami.

Synthesis and applications: Herbivore and fire management actions should be integrated, as events that influence herbivore densities go on to influence fire occurrence in subsequent years. In areas with 400–600 mm MAP it is particularly important because changes in herbivore numbers—due to drought, predation, disease, or human interventions—can result in switches between fire‐ and herbivore‐dominated systems, with cascading consequences for biodiversity and ecosystem function. Furthermore, grazing gradients (in this case distance to closest perennial river) are critical as it allows both fire and herbivore‐dominated systems to occur within the same system along the gradient. This increases management possibilities, as management actions that induce grazing gradients can have positive implications for maintaining biodiversity in protected areas.
Knockdown of cathepsin D protects dopaminergic neurons against neuroinflammation‐mediated neurotoxicity through inhibition of NF‐κB signalling pathway in Parkinson's disease model
Authors: Gan Ping , Xia Qiaofang , Hang Guihua , Zhou Yincai , Qian Xiaojuan , Wang Xiaomei , Ding Lidong 
Published: November 2018

SummaryParkinson's disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder pathologically characterized by the loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc). Chronic neuroinflammation is one of the hallmarks of PD pathophysiology. Cathepsin D (CathD), a soluble aspartic protease, has been reported to play an important role in neurodegenerative diseases such as PD. This research focuses on the role of CathD and the molecular mechanisms involved in the process of neuroinflammation and neurotoxicity. We use 1‐methyl‐4phenyl‐1, 2, 3, 6‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)‐challenged mice and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced murine microglia BV2 cells as the in vivo and in vitro models, respectively. The effect of CathD on the neuroinflammation, cytotoxicity and the underlying mechanisms associated with NF‐κB signalling pathway are investigated. Data showed that MPTP induces motor deficit, inflammation and depletion of dopaminergic neurons in PD model mice. Notably, cathD was overexpressed in the SNpc of MPTP‐induced PD mice and was highly expressing in LPS‐stimulated primary microglial cells and BV‐2 cells. Furthermore, knockdown of CathD with lentiviral transduction inhibited LPS‐induced neuroinflammation through inhibition of NF‐κB signalling pathway primarily by regulating the NF‐κB p65 nuclear translocation both in BV‐2 and primary microglial cells. Additionally, knockdown of CathD protected the activated‐microglia induced dopaminergic neurons MN9D cells from neurotoxicity as well as apoptosis. Our findings bring a new insight into understanding the complex mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of PD and provide a novel target to attenuate the excessive neuroinflammatory responses in the treatment of PD.
Complex Congenital Heart Malformation Including Transposition of the Great Vessels, Presenting as Sudden Unexplained Infant Death
Authors: Demeter Carlee N. , Gunther Wendy M. , Fantaskey Amy P. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractTransposition of the great vessels (TGV) is a common congenital heart defect that is difficult to diagnose before birth. Antenatal diagnosis is associated with increased survival. Unusual features such as anomalous pulmonary artery origin may delay cyanosis, decreasing clinical suspicion. A three‐week old female infant who had never been cyanotic presented for forensic autopsy due to onset of unresponsiveness at home. History included risk factors for TGV and signs of heart enlargement that were not recognized during life. Cardiac pathology consultation identified D‐type TGV with additional rare anomalies. TGV may present as sudden unexplained infant death (SUID) for forensic autopsy if variant features prevent development of cyanosis. Cardiac pathology consultation is helpful in clarifying these features.
Detection of Cutting Agents in Drug‐Positive Seized Exhibits within the United States
Authors: Fiorentin Taís R. , Krotulski Alex J. , Martin David M. , Browne Thom , Triplett Jeremy , Conti Trisha , Logan Barry K. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractThe following report summarizes a study performed on seized drug exhibits collected in two U.S. states to evaluate the presence and identification of cutting agents. Aliquots of seized drug materials from Kentucky (n = 200) and Vermont (n = 315) were prepared using a dilute‐and‐shoot procedure. Initial analysis was performed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) followed by analysis using liquid chromatography quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (LC‐QTOF). Active compounds detected overall included caffeine (31.0%), quinine/quinidine (24.7%), levamisole (11.6%), acetaminophen, (8.2%) and procaine (8.2%). These compounds were found with several drugs of abuse, such as heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and cocaine. This novel information about cutting agents used to dilute or alter drugs of abuse is important to criminal investigations and in the management of acute intoxications at health centers. However, common methodologies for analysis and standard reporting practices frequently do not include cutting agents, resulting in lacking or inadequate information regarding prevalence of these substances.
Extended‐release quetiapine overdose is associated with delayed onset of toxicity compared to immediate‐release quetiapine overdose
Authors: Taylor Lucy , Graudins Andis 
Published: November 2018

AbstractObjectivesThere are currently no studies comparing toxicity after extended‐release (XR) and immediate‐release (IR) quetiapine overdose. To compare the time course of toxicity of XR and IR quetiapine overdose.MethodsRetrospective analysis of toxicology unit consultations from July 2013 to April 2016. Information extracted included demographics, type of ingestion (IR, XR, mixed formulation, dose, tablet count, time to presentation, sedative co‐ingestants), lowest Glasgow coma score (GCS), time to lowest GCS, fastest pulse, lowest systolic blood pressure, and time to recovery from sedation.ResultsThere were 256 presentations in 210 patients. Females 86% (n = 181), median age 30.5 years (IQR 23–43). Median quetiapine dose for the whole cohort was 2 g (IQR 1–5). Sedating co‐ingestants were seen in 61% of presentations. Comparison of IR (n = 43) and XR quetiapine (n = 23) ingestions without sedating co‐ingestants revealed a larger median ingested dose for XR formulation: 5.7 g versus 1.75 g (P = 0.004) and larger median tablet strength (XR 200 mg vs IR 100 mg, P < 0.001). Median time to lowest GCS: XR 7 h (IQR 4.9–11) versus IR 3.8 h (IQR 2.4–5.7), P < 0.001. Median time to peak pulse: XR 9 h (IQR 3–12) versus IR 2.5 h (IQR 1.5–5), P = 0.01. Median time to recovery from sedation: XR quetiapine 20 h (IQR 12–39) versus 12 h (IQR 5.5–22), P < 0.05. Median duration of intubation: XR 47 h versus 17 h for IR, P = 0.04).ConclusionXR quetiapine overdoses without sedating co‐ingestants were associated with a doubling of time to peak sedation and pulse, and had longer recovery from sedation. The absence of sedation or tachycardia 12 h post‐overdose of XR quetiapine seems a reasonable timeframe to rule out significant poisoning.
Environmental DNA metabarcoding studies are critically affected by substrate selection
Authors: Koziol Adam , Stat Michael , Simpson Tiffany , Jarman Simon , DiBattista Joseph D. , Harvey Euan S. , Marnane Michael , McDonald Justin , Bunce Michael 
Published: November 2018

AbstractEffective biomonitoring is critical for driving management outcomes that ensure long‐term sustainability of the marine environment. In recent years, environmental DNA (eDNA), coupled with metabarcoding methodologies, has emerged as a promising tool for generating biotic surveys of marine ecosystems, including those under anthropogenic pressure. However, more empirical data are needed on how to best implement eDNA field sampling approaches to maximize their utility for each specific application. The effect of the substrate chosen for eDNA sampling on the diversity of marine taxa detected by DNA metabarcoding has not yet been systematically analysed, despite aquatic systems being those most commonly targeted for eDNA studies. We investigated the effect of four commonly used eDNA substrates to explore taxonomic diversity: (a) surface water, (b) marine sediment, (c) settlement plates and (d) planktonic tows. With a focus on coastal ports, 332 eDNA samples from Australia (Indian and Southern oceans) and Kazakhstan (Caspian Sea) were collected and analysed by multi‐assay DNA metabarcoding. Across study locations, between 30% and 52% of eukaryotic families detected were unique to a particular substrate and <6% of families were found in all four substrates. Taxonomic composition varied significantly depending on the substrate sampled implying that the suitability (and bias) of an eDNA substrate will depend on the focal taxa. These findings demonstrate that single substrate eDNA metabarcoding likely underestimates the total eukaryotic diversity. Future eDNA experimental design should consider incorporating multiple substrates or select substrate(s) best suited to the specific detection of target taxa.
Knockdown of long non‐coding RNA linc‐ITGB1 inhibits cancer stemness and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition by reducing the expression of Snail in non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Guo Lili , Sun Cencen , Xu Shilei , Xu Yue , Dong Qiuping , Zhang Linlin , Li Wei , Wang Xingyu , Ying Guoguang , Guo Fengjie 
Published: November 2018

BackgroundThe main cause of death in patients with non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the progression of cancer metastasis, which can be attributed to multiple factors, such as cancer stem cells (CSCs) and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play important roles in the regulation of the cell cycle, cell proliferation, immune responses, and metastasis in cancers, but the potential roles and mechanisms of lincRNAs in CSC‐like properties of cancer have not yet been elucidated.MethodsHuman NSCLC cell lines (A549 and H1299), highly metastatic cell lines (L9981 and 95D), and their corresponding low‐metastatic cell lines (NL9980 and 95C) were subject to quantitative real‐time PCR and Western blot, transwell invasion, colony formation, and wound healing assays.ResultsLinc‐ITGB1 was greatly upregulated in CSC spheres. Linc‐ITGB1 knockdown markedly inhibited CSC formation and the expression of stemness‐associated genes, such as Sox2, Nanog, Oct‐4, c‐Myc, and CD133. Depletion of linc‐ITGB1 expression also inhibited the in vitro invasive and migratory potential of cells, and further analysis indicated that linc‐ITGB1 knockdown increased the expression of the epithelial marker E‐cadherin and downregulated the mesenchymal markers vimentin and fibronectin. The EMT‐related transcription factor Snail mediated these effects of linc‐ITGB1 in NSCLC, and overexpression of Snail significantly reversed the inhibitory effects of linc‐ITGB1 depletion.ConclusionOverall, our study demonstrated that linc‐ITGB1 promoted NSCLC cell EMT and cancer stemness by regulating Snail expression.
Responsiveness without Representation: Evidence from Minimum Wage Laws in U.S. States
Authors: Simonovits Gabor , Guess Andrew M. , Nagler Jonathan 
Published: November 2018

AbstractHow well does public policy represent mass preferences in U.S. states? Current approaches provide an incomplete account of statehouse democracy because they fail to compare preferences and policies on meaningful scales. Here, we overcome this problem by generating estimates of Americans' preferences on the minimum wage and compare them to observed policies both within and across states. Because we measure both preferences and policies on the same scale (U.S. dollars), we can quantify both the association of policy outcomes with preferences across states (responsiveness) and their deviation within states (bias). We demonstrate that while minimum wages respond to corresponding preferences across states, policy outcomes are more conservative than preferences in each state, with the average policy bias amounting to about two dollars. We also show that policy bias is substantially smaller in states with access to direct democratic institutions.
Der p 1‐specific regulatory T‐cell response during house dust mite allergen immunotherapy
Authors: Boonpiyathad Tadech , Sokolowska Milena , Morita Hideaki , Rückert Beate , Kast Jeannette I. , Wawrzyniak Marcin , Sangasapaviliya Atik , Pradubpongsa Panitan , Fuengthong Rattanaporn , Thantiworasit Pattarawat , Sirivichayakul Sunee , Kwok William W. , Ruxrungtham Kiat , Akdis Mübeccel , Akdis Cezmi A. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractBackgroundAllergen‐specific immunotherapy (AIT) is the only available treatment for allergic diseases that can induce specific immune tolerance to allergens. The key mechanisms involved in this process include changes in allergen‐specific regulatory T (Treg) cells.MethodsWe studied 25 allergic rhinitis patients undergoing subcutaneous house dust mite–specific immunotherapy. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were studied before and after 10, 30 weeks, and 3 years of AIT. Der p 1‐specific T regulatory cell responses were investigated by characterization of Der p 1‐MHC class II tetramer–positive cells and correlated with nasal symptom score.ResultsTwelve of 25 AIT patients matched with their MHC class II expression to the Der p 1 peptide‐MHC class II tetramers. A significant increase in the numbers of Der p 1‐specific FOXP3+Helios+CD25+CD127− Treg cells after 30 weeks was observed, which slightly decreased after 3 years of AIT. In contrast, Der p 1‐specific immunoglobulin‐like transcript 3 (ILT3)+CD25+ Treg cells decreased substantially from baseline after 3 years of AIT. ILT3+ Treg cells displayed compromised suppressive function and low FOXP3 expression. In addition, Der p 1‐specific IL‐10 and IL‐22 responses have increased after 30 weeks, but only IL‐10+ Der p 1‐specific Treg cells remained present at high frequency after 3 years of AIT. Increased number of FOXP3+Helios+ and IL‐10+ and decreased ILT3+ Treg cell responses correlated with improved allergic symptoms.ConclusionThe results indicate that AIT involves upregulation of the activated allergen‐specific Treg cells and downregulation of dysfunctional allergen‐specific Treg cell subset. Correction of dysregulated Treg cells responses during AIT is associated with improved clinical response.
Anterolateral thigh versus pectoralis major flaps in reconstruction of the lateral temporal bone defect
Authors: Parr Justin M. , Chouhan Prem , Wagels Michael 
Published: November 2018

BackgroundFree tissue reconstruction is reliable in suitable patients but patient selection remains a challenge for the reconstructive surgeon. The anterolateral thigh (ALT) free flap and pedicled pectoralis major myocutaneous flap (PMMF) are two common reconstructive options for a lateral temporal bone resection defect. The threshold at which free tissue reconstruction should be considered over locoregional reconstruction is not defined. We sought to define reconstructive flap choice in the setting of medical comorbidities that may dissuade free tissue transfer.MethodsA retrospective analysis of lateral temporal bone defects at a single institution was undertaken. The primary outcomes were flap survival, surgical complications and durations of surgery and stay. Data regarding medical comorbidities and potential confounders were examined.ResultsSixty patients with lateral temporal bone defects were identified. Twenty‐four (40%) patients underwent PMMF reconstruction and 36 (60%) were reconstructed with ALT. The former were significantly older (73 versus 62 years), though with similar Anesthesiologists Risk Classification System status. Free‐flap reconstruction resulted in significantly less flap loss (two versus six) but a longer operating time (790 versus 671 min).ConclusionPatients suffering head and neck cancer with medical comorbidities can make selection of a suitable reconstruction difficult. We found that while patients undergoing ALT reconstruction were typically younger, the comorbidity profile of those patients was similar to patients undergoing PMMF reconstruction. ALT flaps were more reliable than the PMMF, lending credence to the view that free tissue transfer should be the preferred reconstructive option in suitable candidates and defects.