bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Delirium symptoms are associated with decline in cognitive function between ages 53 to 69: findings from a British birth cohort study
Authors: Tsui A , Kuh D , Richards M , Davis D 
Published: October 2017

AbstractINTRODUCTIONFew population studies have investigated whether longitudinal decline after delirium in mid-to-late life might affect specific cognitive domains.METHODSParticipants from a birth cohort completing assessments of search speed, verbal memory and the Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination at age 69 were asked about delirium symptoms between ages 60-69. Linear regression models estimated associations between delirium symptoms and cognitive outcomes.RESULTSPeriod prevalence of delirium between 60 and 69 was 4% (95% CI 3.2%,4.9%). Self-reported symptoms of delirium over the seventh decade were associated with worse scores in the Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination (−1.7 points, 95% CI −3.2, −0.1, p=0.04). In association with delirium symptoms, verbal memory scores were initially lower, with subsequent decline in search speed by age 69. These effects were independent of other Alzheimer’s risk factors.DISCUSSIONDelirium symptoms may be common even at relatively younger ages, and their presence may herald cognitive decline, particularly in search speed, over this time period.
Correlation of gene expressions between nucleus and cytoplasm reflects single-cell physiology
Authors: Abdelmoez Mahmoud N. , Iida Kei , Oguchi Yusuke , Nishikii Hidekazu , Yokokawa Ryuji , Kotera Hidetoshi , Uemura Sotaro , Santiago Juan G. , Shintaku Hirofumi 
Published: October 2017

BackgroundEukaryotes transcribe RNAs in nuclei and transport them to the cytoplasm through multiple steps of post-transcriptional regulation. Existing single-cell sequencing technologies, however, are unable to analyse nuclear (nuc) and cytoplasmic (cyt) RNAs separately and simultaneously. Hence, there remain challenges to discern correlation, localisation, and translocation between them.ResultsHere we report a microfluidic system that physically separates nucRNA and cytRNA from a single cell and enables single-cell integrated nucRNA and cytRNA-sequencing (SINC-seq). SINC-seq constructs two individual RNA-seq libraries, nucRNA and cytRNA per cell, quantifies gene expression in the subcellular compartments and combines them to create a novel single-cell RNA-seq data enabled by our system, which we here term in-silico single cell.ConclusionsLeveraging SINC-seq, we discovered three distinct natures of correlation among cytRNA and nucRNA that reflected the physiological state of single cells: The cell-cycle-related genes displayed highly correlated expression pattern with minor differences; RNA splicing genes showed lower nucRNA-to-cytRNA correlation, suggesting a retained intron may be implicated in inhibited mRNA transport; A chemical perturbation, sodium butyrate treatment, transiently distorted the correlation along differentiating human leukemic cells to erythroid cells. These data uniquely provide insights into the regulatory network of mRNA from nucleus toward cytoplasm at the single cell level.
Targeted genome fragmentation with CRISPR/Cas9 improves hybridization capture, reduces PCR bias, and enables efficient high-accuracy sequencing of small targets
Authors: Nachmanson Daniela , Lian Shenyi , Schmidt Elizabeth K. , Hipp Michael J. , Baker Kathryn T. , Zhang Yuezheng , Tretiakova Maria , Loubet-Senear Kaitlyn , Kohrn Brendan F. , Salk Jesse J. , Kennedy Scott R. , Risques Rosa Ana 
Published: October 2017

ABSTRACTCurrent next-generation sequencing techniques suffer from inefficient target enrichment and frequent errors. To address these issues, we have developed a targeted genome fragmentation approach based on CRISPR/Cas9 digestion. By designing all fragments to similar lengths, regions of interest can be size-selected prior to library preparation, increasing hybridization capture efficiency. Additionally, homogenous length fragments reduce PCR bias and maximize read usability. We combine this novel target enrichment approach with ultra-accurate Duplex Sequencing. The result, termed CRISPR-DS, is a robust targeted sequencing technique that overcomes the inherent challenges of small target enrichment and enables the detection of ultra-low frequency mutations with small DNA inputs.
Darwin Assembly: fast, efficient, multi-site bespoke mutagenesis
Authors: Cozens Christopher , Pinheiro Vitor B. 
Published: October 2017

ABSTRACTEngineering proteins for designer functions and biotechnological applications almost invariably requires (or at least benefits from) multiple mutations to non-contiguous residues. Several methods for multiple site-directed mutagenesis exist, but there remains a need for fast and simple methods to efficiently introduce such mutations – particularly for generating large, high quality libraries for directed evolution. Here, we present Darwin Assembly, which can deliver high quality libraries of over 108 transformants, targeting multiple (> 10) distal sites with minimal wild-type contamination (lower than 0.25% of total population) and which takes a single working day from purified plasmid to library transformation. Darwin Assembly uses commercially available enzymes, can be readily automated, and offers a cost-effective route to highly complex and customizable library generation.
Integrin alpha 4 / beta 1 (CD49d/CD29) is a component of the murine IgG3 receptor
Authors: Saylor Hawk Carolyn , Coelho Carolina , Lima de Oliveira Diane Sthefany , Paredes Verenice , Albuquerque Patrícia , Lorenzetti Bocca Anamélia , Correa dos Santos Ananésia , Rusakova Victoria , Holemon Heather , Soares Felipe Maria Sueli , Yagita Hideo , Nicola André Moraes , Casadevall Arturo 
Published: October 2017

SummaryAntibodies exert several of their effector functions by binding to cell surface receptors. For murine IgG3 (mIgG3) the identity of its receptors (and the very existence of a receptor) is still under debate, as not all mIgG3 functions can be explained by interaction with Fcγ-receptor I (FcγRI). This implies the existence of an alternate receptor, whose identity we sought to pinpoint. We found that blockage of the alpha4/beta1 integrin (Itga4/Itgb1) selectively hampered binding of mIgG3 to macrophages and mIgG3-mediated phagocytosis. Manganese, an integrin activator, increased mIgG3 binding to macrophages. Blockage of FcγRI or Itgb1 inhibited binding of different mIgG3 antibodies to variable extents. Our results indicate an integrin component in the mIgG3 receptor. Given the more ancient origin of integrins in comparison with FcγR, this observation could have far ranging implications for our understanding of the evolution of antibody-mediated immunity, as well as in immunity to microorganisms, pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases and antibody engineering.
Interleukins 4 and 13 Induce Exon Skipping of MutantDystrophinPre-mRNA to Restore Dystrophin Production
Authors: Low SiewHui , Fan Chen-Ming 
Published: October 2017

AbstractDuchenne muscular dystrophy is (DMD) a lethal muscle degenerative disease caused by nonsense or out of frame deletion mutations in theDMDgene1, which encodes Dystrophin2,3. While multiple therapeutic strategies to ameliorate the disease symptoms are under development, there is currently no cure. Here we report an unexpected finding that intramuscular injections of the anti-inflammatory interleukin 4 or 13 (IL4/13) not only reduce inflammation but also restore Dystrophin protein production in themdxmouse model4. IL4/13 restores Dystrophin production by inducing changes in theDmdpre-mRNA splicing pattern that exclude the mutated exon and restore the reading frame. We further show that systemic delivery of IL4-Fc can restore Dystrophin in multiple muscle groups and increase muscle endurance and strength inmdxmice. Importantly, IL4/13 treatment ofmdxmyoblasts is sufficient to induce exon skipping and restoreDmdreading framein vitro. Moreover, IL4-treated DMD patient myoblasts produce Dystrophin-positive myofibers after transplantation. In light of the established clinical safety of IL4 treatment5,6, we recommend IL4 as an agent of immediate consideration for treating Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
Revisiting conditional accounting conservatism in state-controlled firms
Authors: Li Wilson , He Tina , Marshall Andrew , Tang Gordon 
Published: October 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore the demand for conditional accounting conservatism from equity shareholders in state-controlled firms.

Design/methodology/approach
This study presents empirical investigation of firms listed on Hong Kong Stock Exchange from 1997 to 2013.

Findings
The first finding is the extent of conditional conservatism in state-controlled firms increases when the leverage ratio decreases. It is also found that the high control rights held by the government in state-controlled firms are associated with high conditional conservatism. In addition, further analyses document the an offsetting effect between high control rights and firm leverage; a reinforcing effect between high control rights and year of incorporation after 1992; and a substituting effect between high control rights and dividend payments.

Originality/value
These findings suggest that the demand from equity shareholders, in addition to the debt demand, can be an important determinant of conditional conservatism and examination of these differing sources of demand can enhance the understanding on accounting conservatism in state-controlled firms.
Positioning ethics and social responsibility as a strategic tool in employees’ affective commitment
Authors: Low Mei Peng , Ong Seng Fook , Tan Pei Meng 
Published: October 2017

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to study the impact of ethics and social responsibility on employees’ affective commitment in the context of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).Design/methodology/approachThis is a quantitative research. The authors employ multistage sampling technique, non-probability and judgmental sampling method. Data were collected through questionnaire survey to measure the respondents’ perceptions of the ethics and social responsibility, as well as internal corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices. The data obtained were analyzed through variance-based structural equation modeling (SEM), i.e., partial least square SEM.FindingsThe findings reveal that perceived role of ethics and social responsibility (PRESOR) and internal CSR are positively related to employees’ affective commitment. Job satisfaction is found to be mediating the relationship between PRESOR and affective commitment. The result also showed that internal CSR practices mediate the relationship between PRESOR and affective commitment.Research limitations/implicationsThere are few limitations in the present research. First, present research merely investigates the practices of ethics and social responsibility by SMEs and did not perform a comparison with larger organizations. Second, the use of non-probability sampling method is unable to generalize results for the entire population. Future research could address the shortcoming of present research in order to further contribute to the academic and business world.Practical implicationsThe findings provide insights to entrepreneurs and SMEs on the manifestation of ethics and social responsibility in enhancing employees’ affective commitment. In turn, it reduces employees’ turnover intention and enhances SMEs sustainability to strive in the competitive environment.Social implicationsThese findings highlight the positive chain effects of enterprises in discharging their moral obligation as well as their social responsibility. The enterprises are benefited from the good reputation which may act as a magnet to attract talent-employees and also sustaining their enterprises through employees’ retention.Originality/valueThis research paper contributes to current knowledge by painting a better picture on the importance of ethics and social responsibility and internal CSR from the employees’ perception. As to date, employees’ perception of ethics and social responsibility and internal CSR practices are still under-investigated. Moreover, past research often focuses the impact of ethics and social responsibility in the larger corporation but scant research is conducted in the smaller organization such as SMEs.
Resource development conflict: a quantitative approach
Authors: Lytle Murray , Hitch Michael 
Published: October 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to propose the thesis that how an individual views the world – their worldview – is indicative of their acceptance of resource development. A definition of worldview is given and the significance of worldview to cultural and civilizational development is described. A methodology for testing the hypothesis is described and the results of a survey used to collect data are analyzed. At least for the approximately 300 respondents to the survey, there is a correlation between their responses to a series of worldview questions and their acceptance of resource development. Not surprisingly, the correlation becomes stronger as the homogeneity of the respondent group increases. The results of the survey analysis are then compared to a known resource development conflict in a case study to understand the potential significance of the results in a real-world setting.

Design/methodology/approach
A definition of worldview is given and the significance of worldview to cultural and civilizational development is described and evaluated. A methodology for testing the hypothesis is described and the results of a survey used to collect data are analyzed.

Findings
At least for the 300 respondents to the survey, there is a correlation between their responses to a series of worldview questions and their acceptance of resource development. The case study indicates that respondents can hold contradictory views depending upon the level of inquiry.

Research limitations/implications
The sample size is too small to draw any but the most preliminary of conclusions. However, the correlations are high enough to encourage additional work.

Practical implications
The research may point to a relatively simple means of understanding the level of acceptance of resource development among all parties to a development proposal. This will allow proponents to identify issues early enough to address them in the design and negotiation phases of project development.

Social implications
Resource developers and residents local to the proposed development are often talking at cross-purposes because the issues are not understood at a deep enough level. Once issues are understood at the deeper level of worldview opportunities for resolution may be identified.

Originality/value
As far as the researchers are aware this is the only published methodology for quantifying the acceptance of resource development. As identified by the case study, it is possible for a community to reject resource development for reasons that have little to do with resource development either in the particular or in the general.
MHD mixed convection oblique stagnation-point flow on a vertical plate
Authors: Giantesio Giulia , Verna Anna , Roşca Natalia C. , Rosca Alin V. , Pop Ioan 
Published: October 2017

Purpose
This paper aims to study the problem of the steady plane oblique stagnation-point flow of an electrically conducting Newtonian fluid impinging on a heated vertical sheet. The temperature of the plate varies linearly with the distance from the stagnation point.

Design/methodology/approach
The governing boundary layer equations are transformed into a system of ordinary differential equations using the similarity transformations. The system is then solved numerically using the “bvp4c” function in MATLAB.

Findings
An exact similarity solution of the magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) Navier–Stokes equations under the Boussinesq approximation is obtained. Numerical solutions of the relevant functions and the structure of the flow field are presented and discussed for several values of the parameters which influence the motion: the Hartmann number, the parameter describing the oblique part of the motion, the Prandtl number (Pr) and the Richardson numbers. Dual solutions exist for several values of the parameters.

Originality value
The present results are original and new for the problem of MHD mixed convection oblique stagnation-point flow of a Newtonian fluid over a vertical flat plate, with the effect of induced magnetic field and temperature.
Openness, productivity and welfare with heterogeneous firms
Authors: Jung Jaewon 
Published: October 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to theoretically examine the effects of outward FDI on domestic aggregate productivity and welfare.

Design/methodology/approach
This paper develops a North-South general equilibrium model in which firms' technology adoption and workers’ skill-technology matching are endogenous. Technologically heterogeneous firms in the North make explicit delocalization decisions to the South through FDI and heterogeneous workers endogenously sort into different technologies according to their respective comparative advantages.

Findings
This paper highlights how globalization-induced technology-upgrading mechanisms of firms and workers increase aggregate productivity and welfare, though at the cost of increased income inequalities. The model shows also that the same technological shock (favoring high-tech firms) leads to different results in closed and open economy: both technology up- and downgrading occur in closed economy, while technology upgrading prevails in open economy.

Originality/value
By modeling and exploring the technology-skill links in a North-South setting, this paper provides richer predictions on the implications of outward FDI. In particular, the model highlights that the initial openness degree of the economy matters: the more open the country initially, the more technology upgrading as globalization proceeds, leading to higher aggregate productivity and welfare gains.
Exploring the decline in trade credit investment
Authors: Harris Chris , Roark Scott 
Published: October 2017

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to identify three factors leading to the observed decline in trade credit offered from publicly traded firms.

Design/methodology/approach
The study conducts firm fixed effect regressions testing the relationship between cash flow volatility and firm investment in trade credit. The relationship is further examined with all firms separated into two groups, based on SIC codes, designating if they are in industries that traditionally offer higher amounts of trade credit.

Findings
The proportion of US firms that has traditionally extended the most trade credit has been decreasing over time, contributing to part of the decline in trade credit offered. Increases in cash flow volatility have also contributed to decreasing investment in trade credit. The negative relationship with cash flow volatility is greatest amongst firms that traditionally place the highest value on trade credit. Firms with access to credit, proxied by investment grade debt ratings, do not experience the same decline in trade credit offered.

Practical implications
Firms that value the ability to extend trade credit may maintain their level of investment in trade credit, even with increased risk of cash flow volatility, by maintaining a comparative advantage in access to credit.

Originality/value
This study extends prior findings by providing three previously unexplored explanations for the decline in offered trade credit seen in the USA. The changing make-up of publicly traded firms, a market-wide increase in cash flow volatility, and access to credit all play an important role in observed declines of trade credit investment.
Stand‐level drivers most important in determining boreal forest response to climate change
Authors: Boulanger Yan , Taylor Anthony R. , Price David T. , Cyr Dominic , Sainte‐Marie Guillaume 
Published: October 2017

AbstractForest ecosystems contain several climate‐sensitive drivers that respond differentially to changes in climate and climate variability. For example, growth and regeneration processes are “stand‐scale” drivers, while natural disturbances operate at “landscape scale”. The relative contributions of these different scale drivers of change in ecosystems create great uncertainty when simulating potential responses of a forest to changes in climate.Here, we assess those contributions, along with harvesting effects, on biomass (both total and of individual species) in the southern boreal forest of Canada under three climate scenarios (RCP2.6,RCP4.5 andRCP8.5).Projections were performed for three future 30‐year time periods, in four study regions located on an east–west transect, using a forest landscape model (LANDIS‐II), parameterized using a forest patch model (PICUS). Projected future impacts were assessed for each driver of change, and found to vary greatly among regions, species, future period and forcing scenarios. Fire, and stand‐scale climate‐induced impacts, had the strongest effects on forest vegetation, as well as on total and species’ biomass under mostRCPscenarios, but the largest impacts occurred mostly after 2050, particularly with theRCP8.5 scenario.The relative importance and trends in species‐specific impacts varied, both spatially and according to the differentRCPscenarios. Western regions were generally more sensitive to stand‐scale climate‐induced changes, whereas eastern regions were more sensitive to changes in fire regime. Our study also highlights the importance of considering the prevalence of species‐level functional traits when assessing the sensitivity of forest landscapes to a given driver of change in the context of increasing anthropogenic climate forcing.Synthesis. Increases in fire activity, and direct impacts of climate change on forest growth and regeneration, will be the most important drivers of future changes in southern boreal forest landscapes.
The Daily Mail and the Stephen Lawrence Murder
Authors: Cathcart Brian 
Published: October 2017

AbstractThe Daily Mail's coverage of the 1993 race murder of Stephen Lawrence has been held up as an example of newspaper journalism at its best. It is a cause of pride to the paper, which has asserted that its 1997 front page accusing five men of the murder, and the comment and reporting that followed, brought about significant social and policy changes and helped achieve justice. The coverage has also been cited by the paper to rebut critics who accuse it of intolerance. Examined in detail here and set in their context, the paper's claims about its role in the case prove to be either exaggerated or not supported by evidence. The Mail's engagement in the Lawrence case involved a famous instance of editorial brilliance, but insofar as its campaign brought about or contributed to changes, they were not usually changes sought by the paper and they were sometimes contrary to its aims.
Suicide by Medication Overdose in Prison: A Study of Three Cases
Authors: Bartoli Christophe , Berland‐Benhaim Caroline , Tuchtan‐Torrents Lucile , Kintz Pascal , Leonetti Georges , Pelissier‐Alicot Anne‐Laure 
Published: October 2017

AbstractSuicide is one of the principal causes of mortality in a prison environment. Although suicide by medication overdose is less frequent than suicide by hanging, self‐strangulation, or vein cutting, it raises questions as to how the medications are obtained, particularly in view of the specific organization of the medication circuit in prisons. We present three cases of suicide by medication overdose involving different therapeutic classes with different distribution circuits and review the regulatory requirements and the measures that could be taken to prevent such suicides.