bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of copyright exceptions and limitations on access to information in Kenya, Ghana and Uganda libraries
Authors: Mungai Magdaline Wanjiru , Dorvlo Selikem Sebuava , Nuwagirya Asaph , Holmner Marlene
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Copyright exceptions promote access to information by users without breaching copyright. This research paper reviews copyright exceptions in Kenya, Ghana and Uganda and how they influence access to information in libraries. Objectives were to find out the implications of copyright exceptions in Kenya, Ghana and Uganda; advantages and disadvantages of copyright exceptions for libraries; and recommend best practices of copyright exceptions.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a desktop research reviewing empirical literature and incorporating authors' experiential knowledge in their information profession. Authors have interrogated copyright exceptions in their home countries' copyright acts, policy documents and peer-reviewed articles on copyright and information access. They analysed the documents as stated to deduce key recommendations regarding ideal copyright exceptions.

Findings

The study established that copyright exceptions do not always improve access as intended because they are inadequate, ignoring key library functions. Major inconsistencies exist in the exceptions in these countries; key terminologies have not been defined; and the concept is not well understood. Librarians lack sufficient knowledge on exceptions, hence lack self-efficacy in educating users. Kenya, Ghana and Uganda should improve and harmonize their copyright acts to cover key library functions.

Originality/value

This study provides in-depth analysis of historical and modern practices of copyright exceptions in the three countries revealing useful comparative insights. Previous studies looked at the issues from individual countries perspective.
Imitation in immigrant entrepreneurship: an analytical framework
Authors: Glinka Beata , Hensel Przemysław G.
Published: June 2020

Purpose

The phenomenon of imitation has attracted immense attention in studies of big companies, but it has been largely neglected in the immigrant entrepreneurship research thus far. The purpose of this paper is to address that gap by proposing a theoretical framework for studying immigrant entrepreneurship imitation decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

The framework is based on a review of relevant literature covering the issue of imitation within three perspectives: institutional, heuristics of judgement and organisational learning. We validate the framework by juxtaposing it with existing studies on immigrant entrepreneurship, where imitation practices were directly and indirectly referred to. The framework is also initially validated with data from three qualitative studies performed by the authors.

Findings

The literature-derived framework consists of three major building blocks (i.e. causes, target and content of imitation) while immigrant-entrepreneurship specificity (ethnic groups and clusters, ethnic identity, generation, and resources) constitutes the context of the framework. The authors formulate 12 propositions on which the framework is based. The specific character of immigrant entrepreneurs' imitation decision is discussed, and differences in that regard between immigrant entrepreneurs and established local businesses are highlighted.

Research limitations/implications

A more diversified sample and quantitative studies are needed to further verify the proposed framework and propositions.

Social implications

The framework is intended to expedite future research on immigrant entrepreneurs' imitative decisions and facilitate better-adjusted public policy to support immigrant entrepreneurs.

Originality/value

This paper drives attention to a widely used, yet understudied phenomenon of imitation, provides an analytical framework for the study of imitation in immigrant entrepreneurship, provides a preliminary validation of the framework and contributes to a better understanding of immigrant behaviour.
The carbon dioxide emission effects of domestic credit and manufacturing indicators in South Africa
Authors: Kwakwa Paul Adjei , Adusah-Poku Frank
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Carbon dioxide emission is one of the key causes of global warming and climate change. This study investigates the effects of domestic credit and manufacturing indicators on the emission of carbon dioxide in South Africa.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper relied on time series data from 1975 to 2014 and employed regression and variance decomposition methods to analyze the data.

Findings

In the long run, manufacturing output increases total carbon emissions and emissions from solid fuel; manufactures trade reduces carbon emissions and domestic credit reduces emissions from the manufacturing industries and construction. The long-run effect of the changing technical characteristics of the manufacturing sector is sensitive to the estimation technique used. In the short run, however, changing technical characteristics of the manufacturing sector affect the level of carbon emissions. Income increases emissions from manufacturing industries and construction and urbanization increases total carbon emissions.

Research limitations/implications

Policymakers have to initiate effective policies to promote energy-efficient technologies among manufacturing firms.

Originality/value

The paper examines the effect of manufacturing on carbon dioxide emissions in South Africa. It also examines the possible effect of manufactures trade on carbon emissions. Moreover, the possible effect of the changing characteristics of the manufacturing sector on carbon emissions is investigated.
Institutional investment in repurchase stocks: insider trading information
Authors: Wang Jin-Ying
Published: June 2020

Purpose

This study explores whether institutional investors can distinguish an undervalued share repurchase from a falsely signaled share repurchase. This study also aims to determine what information institutions use when investing in repurchase stocks.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses unique Taiwanese data and concentrates on foreign institutions because they are the most sophisticated investors in Taiwan.

Findings

The results show that foreign institutional trading in open market repurchase (OMR) stocks will earn both positive concurrent and post-OMR excess returns. In addition, there is a significant positive relationship between pre-OMR insider trading and foreign institutional trading during the OMR period; that is, foreign institutions follow insiders to trade their OMR stocks.

Practical implications

This study finds that foreign institutions use publicly available data on insider trading to choose OMR stocks and create excess returns. This encourages individual investors without private information, who can also earn a positive return if they diligently study available public information.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the international investment literature by determining the price impacts associated with foreigner trading in the firm-level returns of the host country. In addition, this study finds that foreign institutions choose OMRs based on insider trading information, which fills the gap in existing studies on share repurchasing. Moreover, this study enriches the insider literature by showing how foreign institutions can benefit by using insider trading information.
Remarkable lives: Charlotte Wall in conversation with Jerome Carson
Authors: Wall Charlotte Louise , Carson Jerome
Published: June 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a profile of Charlotte Wall.

Design/methodology/approach

In this case study, Charlotte provides a short account of her background and is then interviewed by Jerome.

Findings

Charlotte took comfort in being given a diagnosis of bipolar; it helped explain a lot of her problems.

Research limitations/implications

It is easier to identify with a single case study and person’s story than anonymised group research data. Each have their place in helping us understand mental health problems.

Practical implications

Transitions are not always bad. Charlotte talks about how her life changed for the better when she went to sixth form college. The onward transition to university has also been a positive experience for her. This needs to be remembered.

Social implications

As everyone is currently living through the Covid-19 pandemic, Charlotte’s perspective on the importance of social support for mental well-being is critical. Thankfully, she has loving parents and a partner. There are others less fortunate.

Originality/value

Charlotte shows us how she embraced her diagnosis of bipolar and her “weirdness”.
3D printing in tissue engineering: a state of the art review of technologies and biomaterials
Authors: Poomathi Nataraj , Singh Sunpreet , Prakash Chander , Subramanian Arjun , Sahay Rahul , Cinappan Amutha , Ramakrishna Seeram
Published: June 2020

Purpose

In the past decade, three-dimensional (3D) printing has gained attention in areas such as medicine, engineering, manufacturing art and most recently in education. In biomedical, the development of a wide range of biomaterials has catalysed the considerable role of 3D printing (3DP), where it functions as synthetic frameworks in the form of scaffolds, constructs or matrices. The purpose of this paper is to present the state-of-the-art literature coverage of 3DP applications in tissue engineering (such as customized scaffoldings and organs, and regenerative medicine).

Design/methodology/approach

This review focusses on various 3DP techniques and biomaterials for tissue engineering (TE) applications. The literature reviewed in the manuscript has been collected from various journal search engines including Google Scholar, Research Gate, Academia, PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and Web of Science. The keywords that have been selected for the searches were 3 D printing, tissue engineering, scaffoldings, organs, regenerative medicine, biomaterials, standards, applications and future directions. Further, the sub-classifications of the keyword, wherever possible, have been used as sectioned/sub-sectioned in the manuscript.

Findings

3DP techniques have many applications in biomedical and TE (B-TE), as covered in the literature. Customized structures for B-TE applications are easy and cost-effective to manufacture through 3DP, whereas on many occasions, conventional technologies generally become incompatible. For this, this new class of manufacturing must be explored to further capabilities for many potential applications.

Originality/value

This review paper presents a comprehensive study of the various types of 3DP technologies in the light of their possible B-TE application as well as provides a future roadmap.
3D printing for chest wall reconstructive surgery
Authors: Agarwala Ranjeet , Anciano Carlos J. , Stevens Joshua , Chin Robert Allen , Sparks Preston
Published: June 2020

Purpose

The purpose of the paper was to present a specific case study of how 3D printing was introduced in the chest wall construction process of a specific patient with unique medical condition. A life-size 3D model of the patient’s chest wall was 3D printed for pre-surgical planning. The intent was to eliminate the need for operative exposure to map the pathological area. The model was used for preoperative visualization and formation of a 1-mm thick titanium plate implant, which was placed in the patient during chest wall reconstructive surgery. The purpose of the surgery was to relive debilitating chronic pain due to right scapular entrapment.

Design/methodology/approach

The patient was born with a twisted spine. Over time, it progressed to severe and debilitating scoliosis, which required the use of a thoracic brace. Computerized tomography (CT) data were converted to a 3D printed model. The model was used to size and form a 1-mm thick titanium plate implant. It was also used to determine the ideal location for placement of the plate during thoracotomy preoperatively.

Findings

The surgery, aided by the model, was successful and resulted in a significantly smaller incision. The techniques reduced invasiveness and enabled the doctors to conduct the procedure efficiently and decreased surgery time. The patient experienced relief of the chronic debilitating pain and no longer need the thoracic brace.

Originality/value

The 3D model facilitated pre-operative planning and modeling of the implant. It also enabled accurate incision locations of the thoracotomy site and placement of the implant. Although chest wall reconstruction surgeries have been undertaken, this paper documents a specific case study of chest wall construction fora specific patient with unique pathological conditions.
Sustainable tourism development in rural and marginal areas and opportunities for female entrepreneurship: lessons from an exploratory study
Authors: Martini Umberto , Malacarne Karin , Pederzolli Giovanazzi Silvia , Buffa Federica
Published: June 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the role of female entrepreneurs in the development of sustainable tourism in marginal rural mountain areas. This role is studied with reference to two focal points: female entrepreneurs’ involvement in the creation and management of tourism/hospitality services characterized by elements of authenticity, experientiality and innovation (Focus 1) and their willingness to create or participate in local stakeholder networks (Focus 2).

Design/methodology/approach

Exploratory research was conducted in mountain areas where tourism development is still marginal. In depth face-to-face interviews were conducted with 11 businesswomen in Trentino (Italy), who agreed to take part in this study.

Findings

Female entrepreneurs play a very important role in the development of sustainable mountain tourism. Elements of authenticity, experientiality and innovation are shown to be characteristic of female entrepreneurship, as is women’s propensity to create and foster local stakeholder networks (directly or indirectly) linked to their own businesses.

Research limitations/implications

In the light of the exploratory nature of this study, a small convenience sample was used.

Originality/value

This research highlights specific features of female entrepreneurship related to the sustainable development of marginal rural areas and contributes to the academic debate on the topic. This topic is under-researched with regard to developed countries.
Antiviral activities of mycophenolic acid and IMD‐0354 against SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Kato Fumihiro , Matsuyama Shutoku , Kawase Miyuki , Hishiki Takayuki , Katoh Hiroshi , Takeda Makoto
Published: June 2020

In this study, the anti–severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2) activity of mycophenolic acid (MPA) and IMD‐0354 was analyzed. These compounds were chosen based on their antiviral activities against other coronaviruses. Because they also inhibit dengue virus (DENV) infection, other anti‐DENV compounds/drugs were also assessed. On SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected VeroE6/TMPRSS2 monolayers, both MPA and IMD‐0354, but not other anti‐DENV compounds/drugs, showed significant anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 activity. Although MPA reduced the viral RNA level by only approximately 100‐fold, its half maximal effective concentration was as low as 0.87 µ
m, which is easily achievable at therapeutic doses of mycophenolate mofetil. MPA targets the coronaviral papain‐like protease and an in‐depth study on its mechanism of action would be useful in the development of novel anti‐SARS‐CoV‐2 drugs.
Early‐life relationships matter: Social position during early life predicts fitness among female spotted hyenas
Authors: Turner Julie W. , Robitaille Alec L. , Bills Patrick S. , Holekamp Kay E.
Published: June 2020

How social development in early‐life affects fitness remains poorly understood.

Though there is growing evidence that early‐life relationships can affect fitness, little research has investigated how social positions develop or whether there are particularly important periods for social position development in an animal's life history. In long‐lived species in particular, understanding the lasting consequences of early‐life social environments requires detailed, long‐term datasets.

Here we used a 25‐year dataset to test whether social positions held during early development predicted adult fitness. Specifically, we quantified social position using three social network metrics: degree, strength and betweenness. We determined the social position of each individual in three types of networks during each of three stages of ontogeny to test whether they predict annual reproductive success (ARS) or longevity among adult female spotted hyenasCrocuta crocuta.

The social positions occupied by juvenile hyenas did predict their fitness, but the effects of social position on fitness measures differed between stages of early development. Network metrics when individuals were young adults better predicted ARS, but network metrics for younger animals, particularly when youngsters were confined to the communal den, better predicted longevity than did metrics assessed during other stages of development.

Our study shows how multiple types of social bonds formed during multiple stages of social development predict lifetime fitness outcomes. We suggest that social bonds formed during specific phases of development may be more important than others when considering fitness outcomes.
The effect of nitrogen and temperature changes on Solidago canadensis phenotypic plasticity and fitness
Authors: Ren Guang‐Qian , Yang Hong‐Yu , Li Jian , Prabakaran K. , Dai Zhi‐Cong , Wang Xiu‐Pu , Jiang Kun , Zou Chris B , Du Dao‐Lin
Published: June 2020

Phenotypic plasticity is commonly considered to contribute to the invasion success of invasive species. However, the importance of phenotypic plasticity, nitrogen (N) levels and warming to the invasion of invasive species is unclear. The effects of warming and N addition on the morphology, biomass allocation and biochemistry traits of Solidago canadensis and their plasticity were investigated by conducting a pot experiment. The results showed that the effect of N addition on biomass was improved for S. canadensis; whereas warming displayed no significant effect, their positive synergistic interact effect resulted in the overall significant increase in plant performance. The mean phenotypic plasticity indices (MPPI) of biochemistry and total parameters demonstrated a difference between operations, and the higher value was observed in N interaction with temperature treatments than N addition or warming alone. The observed MPPI indicated the biochemistry parameters > morphological parameters > allocation parameters. The MPPI of biochemistry parameters, morphological parameters and total parameters exhibited significant and positive correlations with N level and MPPI of morphological parameters was also significantly positively correlated with the fitness of S. canadensis. These results indicated that the global warming and N addition would make the invaded habitat more suitable for the growth of invasive S. canadensis, and even may effectively increase the invasion risk of S. canadensis through the enhanced phenotypic plasticity, which is a crucial factor to help species deal with the changing environment.
On the asymmetric effects of the real exchange rate on domestic investment in G7 countries
Authors: Bahmani‐Oskooee Mohsen , Baek Jungho
Published: June 2020

Two studies have assessed the symmetric and asymmetric effects of exchange rate changes on domestic investment. One included six emerging countries and the other one, 18 African nations. Both revealed that using nonlinear models to assess the asymmetric effects yield a more significant outcome compared to symmetric and linear models. We add to this small literature by showing the same using quarterly data from each of the G7 countries. Indeed, nonlinear models produced relatively more short‐run and long‐run effects of changes in the real effective exchange rate on domestic investment, though in an asymmetric manner.
‘That thing in his head’: Aboriginal and non‐Aboriginal Australian caregiver responses to neurodevelopmental disability diagnoses
Authors: Hamilton Sharynne L. , Maslen Sarah , Watkins Rochelle , Conigrave Katherine , Freeman Jacinta , O’Donnell Melissa , Mutch Raewyn C. , Bower Carol
Published: June 2020

Little is known about the significance of cultural differences to how caregivers receive a diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disability. As part of a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder prevalence study among sentenced, detained youth, our qualitative study explored the experiences of diagnostic assessment among detained young people and their caregivers. We present findings from the perspectives of caregivers. In conversation with the sociology of diagnosis literature, we present vignettes of three Aboriginal and two non‐Aboriginal caregivers’ experiences of the diagnostic assessment process. We found that Aboriginal caregivers conceptualised their children’s diagnosis and ongoing management in the context of their family networks and community. In contrast, non‐Aboriginal caregivers focused on how the diagnosis would affect their child and interactions with various institutions including healthcare systems and schools. Caregivers’ engagement with diagnostic reports and resources also followed cultural lines. Reflections on intergenerational drinking were voiced by Aboriginal caregivers, who expressed shame at receiving diagnosis. These findings advance our appreciation of cultural difference in receiving a diagnosis, the examination of which is in its nascent stages. We also suggest ways to mitigate harm from a stigmatising diagnosis and soften the well‐established effects of medical dominance over the process of defining a person’s capacity and status.
Lung ultrasound in a respiratory pandemic
Authors: Lokuge Amaali , Alexander Jana , Land Benjamin , McAllister Amy
Published: June 2020

Australian hospitals have prepared for a major surge in patients due to the infectious respiratory pandemic COVID‐19. In other nations, patient presentations have overwhelmed resources. Ultrasound has been shown to be an effective tool to exclude significant life‐threats in resource poor settings. In this article, we will describe three lung ultrasound algorithms for the emergency diagnosis of patients presenting with respiratory symptoms during a COVID‐19 pandemic: (i) LUSC19: lung ultrasound to assess the severity of COVID‐19; (ii) LUSAC: lung ultrasound to exclude alternative causes of respiratory distress; and (iii) LUSI: lung ultrasound following intubation. We anticipate that emergency physicians will use these algorithms during the upcoming respiratory pandemic to rapidly determine the severity of COVID‐19 infection, to seek and treat significant alternative diagnoses and ensure endotracheal intubation.
Psoralea corylifolia L. extract ameliorates nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in free‐fatty‐acid‐incubated HEPG2 cells and in high‐fat diet‐fed mice
Authors: Hong YunMin , Choi Soo‐Im , Hong Eunyoung , Kim Gun‐Hee
Published: June 2020

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common chronic liver disease that is closely related to metabolic syndrome. We investigated the effect of a Psoralea corylifolia L. (PC) seeds extract (PCE) on NAFLD. PC seeds were extracted using different ethanol concentrations to produce five extracts, and the 70% ethanol PCE, which had the highest phenolic content, was used in subsequent in vitro and in vivo experiments. The inhibitory effect of PCE on hepatic steatosis was estimated using HepG2 cells treated with oleic acid (OA). In addition, an in vivo NAFLD model was established using high‐fat diet (HFD)‐induced obese C57BL/6 mice. Obesity was induced in mice over 14 weeks. PCE (100 or 200 mg/kg/day) was administered orally to mice after 8 weeks of the 14‐week treatment period for 6 weeks. PCE suppressed lipid accumulation in OA‐treated HepG2 cells. PCE ameliorated the antioxidant activity suppressions induced by the HFD. In addition, both PCE100 and PCE200 groups reduced lipid accumulation and the expression levels of inflammatory proteins as compared with HFD group. PCE administration significantly attenuated hepatic steatosis in liver tissues by decreasing the expression of lipogenic protein sterol regulatory element binding protein 1‐c (SREBP‐1c) and its downstream protein fatty acid synthase (FAS) in HFD‐fed mice and in OA‐treated HepG2 cells. Furthermore, PCE administration increased the phosphorylation of AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) and acetyl‐CoA carboxylase. These results suggest that PCE could be used as a functional material to prevent or ameliorate NAFLD by inhibiting lipid accumulation in liver.

Practical Application

Psoralea corylifolia L. is rich in polyphenol and other phytochemicals. In this study, we identified the beneficial effects of Psoralea corylifolia L. extract on hepatic steatosis in oleic‐acid‐induced HepG2 cells and high‐fat diet‐fed mice. The result of this study will provide the evidence that a Psoralea corylifolia L. extract has potential use as a functional material for the prevention and amelioration of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
Challenges in confectionery industry: Development and storage stability of innovative white tea‐based candies
Authors: Šeremet Danijela , Mandura Ana , Cebin Aleksandra Vojvodić , Martinić Arijana , Galić Kata , Komes Draženka
Published: June 2020

The aim of this study was the development of innovative candies formulations accordant with the present trends in the confectionery industry. Steviol glycosides, sorbitol, and agave syrup were used as sucrose alternatives, while agar and pectin were included instead of gelatin for the formulation of vegan candies. Additionally, white tea extract was used as a candy base and source of bioactive compounds. Bioactive quality (total phenolic content, antioxidant capacity, epigallocatechin gallate, and caffeine content) and physicochemical (dry matter, springiness, hardness, color) parameters of candies were monitored during 4 months of storage at 4 and 22 °C. Pectin candies with the highest content of dry matter (79.8%) showed the longest shelf life, while those with agar (52.0% and 66.2%) were the most susceptible to spoilage. Candies prepared with agar were less hard (0.4 and 0.6 N) and with less elastic texture (1.5 and 3.4 mm) and showed the highest stability of physicochemical parameters during storage, while those with pectin were also less hard (0.5 N) but with more elastic texture (10.7 mm) than gelatin candies (3.6 and 4.4 mm; 2.4 and 4.1 N). Although gelatin samples were characterized with the greatest bioactive quality parameters immediately after production, they showed a higher instability of the same parameters during storage compared to the agar and pectin candies.

Practical Application

According to the consumers’ demands for healthier confectionery products, formulations of candies with sucrose alternatives, non‐animal hydrocolloids, and natural bioactive compounds were developed. Giving a deeper insight into their physicochemical and bioactive properties, this paper could contribute to confectionery industry in development and optimization of formulations in order to obtain candies with desirable and attractive properties.
The guanidine thiocyanate‐high EDTA method for total microbial RNA extraction from severely heavy metal‐contaminated soils
Authors: Pei Yaxin , Mamtimin Tursunay , Ji Jing , Khan Aman , Kakade Apurva , Zhou Tuoyu , Yu Zhengsheng , Zain Hajira , Yang Wenzhi , Ling Zhenmin , Zhang Wenya , Zhang Yingmei , Li Xiangkai
Published: June 2020

Molecular analyses relying on RNA, as a direct way to unravel active microbes and their functional genes, have received increasing attention from environmental researchers recently. However, extracting sufficient and high‐quality total microbial RNA from seriously heavy metal‐contaminated soils is still a challenge. In this study, the guanidine thiocyanate‐high EDTA (GTHE) method was established and optimized for recovering high quantity and quality of RNA from long‐term heavy metal‐contaminated soils. Due to the low microbial biomass in the soils, we combined multiple strong denaturants and intense mechanical lysis to break cells for increasing RNA yields. To minimize RNAase and heavy metals interference on RNA integrity, the concentrations of guanidine thiocyanate and EDTA were increased from 0.5 to 0.625 ml g−1 soil and 10 to 100 mM, respectively. This optimized GTHE method was applied to seven severely contaminated soils, and the RNA recovery efficiencies were 2.80 ~ 59.41 μg g−1 soil. The total microbial RNA of non‐Cr(VI) (NT) and Cr(VI)‐treated (CT) samples was utilized for molecular analyses. The result of qRT‐PCR demonstrated that the expressions of two tested genes, chrA and yieF, were respectively upregulated 4.12‐ and 62.43‐fold after Cr(VI) treatment. The total microbial RNA extracted from NT and CT samples, respectively, reached to 26.70 μg and 30.75 μg, which were much higher than the required amount (5 μg) for metatranscriptomic library construction. Besides, ratios of mRNA read were more than 86%, which indicated the high‐quality libraries constructed for metatranscriptomic analysis. In summary, the GTHE method is useful to study microbes of contaminated habitats.
Curating (im)mobility: Peri‐urban agency in the Lwandle Migrant Labour Museum
Authors: Kappler Stefanie
Published: June 2020

This article focuses on the ways in which museums perform peri‐urban agency in urban peripheries. The latter are defined as meeting points between rural and urban economies and zones of transition and precariousness, shaped by intersectional inequalities. In South Africa, the experiences of migrant workers include governed (im)mobilities, living on the urban periphery and seeing the continuation of colonial practices in a neoliberal economic environment. A mnemonic reading of the ways in which migrant labour is interpreted and curated by the Lwandle Migrant Labour Museum near Cape Town reflects the extent to which the control of mobilities continues to operate in the country's post‐apartheid neoliberal system. The manner in which the museum curates the experience of migrant‐labour casts light on the performance of a particular form of peri‐urban agency as a way of interpreting the experience of migrant labour beyond Cape Town's city centre. Such agency is not free from contestation but instead an articulation of mnemonic agency in a post‐colonial political setting.
Factors increasing the risk of inappropriate vancomycin therapy in ICU patients: A prospective observational study
Authors: Helset Elin , Nordøy Ingvild , Sporsem Hilde , Bakke Victoria D. , Bugge Jan F. , Gammelsrud Karianne W. , Zucknick Manuela , von der Lippe Elisabeth
Published: June 2020

Background

Vancomycin trough levels are frequently subtherapeutic in intensive care unit (ICU) patients. The aim of this study was to identify patients at risk of therapeutic failure defined as vancomycin area‐under‐the‐curve0‐24/minimum inhibitory concentration (AUC0‐24/MIC) <400, and to examine possible effects of different MICs, the variability in renal clearance and continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT), and the relevance of vancomycin therapy.

Methods

A prospective observational study of ICU patients 18 years at initiation of vancomycin therapy was conducted from May 2013 to October 2015. The patients were divided into four groups according to renal function and CRRT‐mode as follows: normal‐ or augmented renal clearance and continuous venovenous hemodialysis or ‐hemofiltration. Vancomycin peak and trough levels were measured at 24, 48, and 72 hours after therapy initiation. Relevance of vancomycin therapy was retrospectively evaluated based on microbiological results.

Results

Eighty‐three patients were included, median age 54.5 years, 74.5% male, SAPS II score 46, and 90 day mortality 28%. Vancomycin therapy was initiated on ICU‐day 8 (IQR, 5‐12), with a median treatment time of 7.5 (IQR, 5‐12) days. AUC0‐24/MIC > 400 was reached in 81% and 8% with MIC = 1 and 2 mg/L respectively. The CRRT groups had higher AUC0‐24/MIC‐ratios than the non‐CRRT groups (P < .001). Augmented renal clearance increased the risk of AUC0‐24/MIC < 400, independent of MIC‐value. Initiation of vancomycin therapy was retrospectively considered relevant in 28 patients (34%).

Conclusion

A MIC‐value >1 mg/L and augmented renal clearance, were factors increasing the risk of therapeutic failure. Vancomycin treatments could have been omitted or shortened in most of these patients.
Links between Maternal Employment and Child Nutrition in Rural Tanzania
Authors: Debela Bethelhem Legesse , Gehrke Esther , Qaim Matin
Published: June 2020

Improving child nutrition and empowering women are two important and closely connected development goals. Fostering female employment is often seen as an avenue to serve both these goals, especially if it helps to empower the mothers of undernourished children. However, maternal employment can influence child nutrition through different mechanisms, and the net effect may not necessarily be positive. We develop a theoretical model to show that maternal employment can affect child nutrition through changes in income, intrahousehold bargaining power, and time available for childcare. The links are analyzed empirically using panel data from farm households in rural Tanzania. We find that the links between maternal employment and child height‐for‐age Z‐scores (HAZ) are non‐linear. Off‐farm employment is negatively associated with child HAZ at low levels of labor supply. The association turns positive at higher levels of labor supply and negative again at very high levels. The associations between maternal on‐farm work and child nutrition are weaker and not statistically significant. These findings can help to better design development interventions that foster synergies and avoid potential tradeoffs between female empowerment and child nutrition goals.
BRAF mutation, TERT promoter mutation, and HER2 amplification in sporadic or neurofibromatosis‐related neurofibromas and malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors: do these molecules have a signature in malignant transformation?
Authors: Coskun Sinem , Gamsizkan Mehmet , Yilmaz Ismail , Yalcinkaya Ulviye , Sungur Mehmet Ali , Buyucek Seyma , Onal Binnur
Published: June 2020

Peripheral nerve sheath tumors may occur sporadically or related to neurofibromatosis (NF). Unless the mechanisms of tumorigenesis in NF related malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (MPNST) are better understood, it remained unclear in sporadic cases. We aimed to investigate the genetic route for malignancy in both individuals with NF‐1 and sporadic ones to open a way for targeted therapies in the future. We investigated the role of HER2 with Dual ISH DNA Probe Cocktail test, BRAF mutation (exon 15) and TERT promoter mutation frequency with Sanger sequencing method in respectively 25 sporadic neurofibromas, 25 NF‐1 related neurofibromas and 25 MPNST cases from two institutes. Categorical data were analyzed and summarized as frequency and percentage. Statistical analysis was done with SPSS v.22 statistical package, and the statistical significance level was considered as 0.05. We identified TERT promoter mutation only in one sporadic MPNST (4%) and no BRAF mutation in any case. HER2 amplification is found in 10/25 (40%) MPNST cases. No mutations or gene amplification detected in neurofibromas (p < 0.001). MPNSTs are sarcomas with poor prognosis and limited treatment options. TERT promoter mutations and HER2 amplification may play a putative role in therapeutic purposes.
IgG4‐positive plasma cells in Hashimoto thyroiditis: IgG4‐related disease or inflammation‐related IgG4‐positivity?
Authors: Lintusaari Jarkko , Vesaniemi Eini , Kalfert David , Ilvesaro Joanna , Ludvíková Marie , Kholová Ivana
Published: June 2020

Despite the interest of researchers in IgG4‐related disease (IgG4‐RD), many questions still remain unanswered regarding the thyroid gland. We aimed to clarify the relationship between IgG4‐positive plasma cells and the histopathological pattern in the Hashimoto thyroiditis (HT) in a Finnish series. HT specimens (n = 280) were retrieved from the Department of Pathology, Fimlab Laboratories. After re‐evaluation, 82 (29%) cases (72 females and 10 males, 52 ± 17 years) with significant fibrosis were selected. CD38, IgG and IgG4 positivity in plasma cells was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Adjusted IgG4‐positive plasma cells per HPF > 20 and IgG4‐ to IgG‐positive plasma cell ratio > 30% were adopted as threshold criteria and related to other morphological features. IgG4‐positive HT group included 13 cases (15% from fibrotic HT, 4.6% from all HT, 50 ± 15 years, 11 females) with adjusted HPF count 30 ± 5 (23–40) IgG4‐positive cells. IgG4‐positivity significantly correlated with the presence of lobulation, oncocytic metaplasia and certain type of fibrosis, fibrosis spread outside the gland, lymphocytes/plasma cells epithelial penetration, the predominance of microfollicles and follicular atrophy in the present study. Despite the persisting uncertainty whether HT is IgG4‐RD, HT with IgG4‐positive plasma cells is histopathologically distinct entity with some geographic variability.
Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) in the United Kingdom: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of 10‐years of practice‐based evidence
Authors: Wakefield Sarah , Kellett Stephen , Simmonds‐Buckley Melanie , Stockton Daniel , Bradbury Abigail , Delgadillo Jaime
Published: June 2020

Objectives

Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) is a national‐level dissemination programme for provision of evidence‐based psychological treatments for anxiety and depression in the United Kingdom. This paper sought to review and meta‐analyse practice‐based evidence arising from the programme.

Design

A pre‐registered (CRD42018114796) systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods

A random effects meta‐analysis was performed only on the practice‐based IAPT studies (i.e. excluding the clinical trials). Subgroup analyses examined the potential influence of particular methodologies, treatments, populations, and target conditions. Sensitivity analyses investigated potential sources of heterogeneity and bias.

Results

The systematic review identified N = 60 studies, with N = 47 studies suitable for meta‐analysis. The primary meta‐analysis showed large pre‐post treatment effect sizes for depression (d = 0.87, 95% CI [0.78–0.96], p < .0001) and anxiety (d = 0.88, 95% CI [0.79–0.97], p < .0001), and a moderate effect on functional impairment (d = 0.55, 95% CI [0.48–0.61], p < .0001). The methodological features of studies influenced ESs (e.g., such as whether intention‐to‐treat or completer analyses were employed).

Conclusions

Current evidence suggests that IAPT enables access to broadly effective evidence‐based psychological therapies for large numbers of patients. The limitations of the review and the clinical and methodological implications are discussed.

Practitioner points

IAPT interventions are associated with large pre‐post treatment effect sizes in depression and anxiety measures.

IAPT interventions are associated with moderate treatment effect sizes with regards to work and social adjustment.

A reduction in dropout and also the prevention of post‐treatment relapse via the offer of follow‐up support are important areas for future development.
Individual event, seasonal and interannual variations in δ18O values of drip water in Maomaotou Big Cave, Guilin, South China, and their implications for palaeoclimatic reconstructions
Authors: Yin Jian‐Jun , Tang Wei , Wu Xia , Pu Junbing , Zhu Xiaoyan , Wang Zhijun , Lan Gaoyong , Yang Hui
Published: June 2020

Accurately interpreting the stable oxygen isotopic composition (δ18O) of cave drip water is critical to the retrieval of palaeoclimatic information based on the δ18O records preserved in speleothem calcite. Substantial cave monitoring data sites of interest can make essential contributions. In this study, six speleothem drip water sites and one pool water site were selected for a five‐year (2013–2017) monitoring of O and H stable isotope ratios in Maomaotou Big Cave, Guilin, South China. The results reveal that the drip water δ18O generally inherits the signals in the precipitation but may lag behind by times ranging from 1 to 6 months. Variations in drip water δ18O are determined by climatic variables operating over several time scales. At the individual storm‐event scale, drip water δ18O is a function of rainfall amount, moisture source δ18O and hydrological processes within the vadose zone. Moisture from nearby Beibu Bay in the northwest of the South China Sea often causes the rainfall and thus drip water to be enriched in 18O at Maomaotou Cave, for example. Seasonally or annually, the higher amounts of precipitation associated with the occurrence of El Niño events (e.g. in 2015/2016) result in more depleted drip water δ18O. On the interannual scale, variations of drip water δ18O are linked to changes in the intensity of the East Asian summer monsoon (EASM), the Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) and the West Pacific Subtropical High (WPSH). An enhanced EASM coupled with La Niña‐like conditions likely results in depleted precipitation δ18O, as does a stronger WPSH that leads to more rainfall. This study illustrates the importance of understanding these complex and varying external environmental conditions that contribute to δ18O changes in drip water, when interpreting the palaeoclimatic information contained in speleothems.
Crossroads of telomere biology and anticancer drug discovery
Authors: Seimiya Hiroyuki
Published: June 2020

The telomere is the specialized nucleoprotein complex at the end of the chromosome. Its highly conserved 5′‐TTAGGG‐3′ repeats and shelterin protein complexes form a protective loop structure to maintain the integrity and stability of linear chromosomes. Although human somatic cells gradually shorten telomeres to undergo senescence or crisis, cancer cells activate telomerase, or the recombination‐based mechanism to maintain telomeres and exhibit immortality. As the most frequent non‐coding mutations in cancer, gain‐of‐function mutations in the promoter region of the telomerase catalytic subunit, TERT, trigger telomerase activation. Promoter methylation and copy number gain are also associated with the enhanced TERT expression. Although telomerase inhibitors were pioneered from telomere‐directed therapeutics, their efficacies are limited to cancer with short telomeres and some hematological malignancies. Other therapeutic approaches include a nucleoside analog incorporated to telomeres and TERT promoter‐driven oncolytic adenoviruses. Tankyrase poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase, a positive regulator of telomerase, has been rediscovered as a target for Wnt‐driven cancer. Meanwhile, telomeric nucleic acids form a higher‐order structure called a G‐quadruplex (G4). G4s are formed genome‐wide and their dynamics affect various events, including replication, transcription, and translation. G4‐stabilizing compounds (G4 ligands) exert anticancer effects and are in clinical investigations. Collectively, telomere biology has provided clues for deeper understanding of cancer, which expands opportunities to discover innovative anticancer drugs.
Phase II trial of pazopanib in patients with metastatic or unresectable chemoresistant sarcomas: A Japanese Musculoskeletal Oncology Group study
Authors: Urakawa Hiroshi , Kawai Akira , Goto Takahiro , Hiraga Hiroaki , Ozaki Toshifumi , Tsuchiya Hiroyuki , Nakayama Robert , Naka Norifumi , Matsumoto Yoshihiro , Kobayashi Eisuke , Okuma Tomotake , Kunisada Toshiyuki , Ando Masahiko , Ueda Takafumi , Nishida Yoshihiro
Published: June 2020

Alveolar soft part sarcoma (ASPS), epithelioid sarcoma (ES), and clear cell sarcoma (CCS) are known to be chemoresistant tumors. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of pazopanib on these chemoresistant tumors. This study is designed as a single‐arm, multicenter, investigator‐initiated phase II trial. Patient enrollment was undertaken between July 2016 and August 2018 at 10 hospitals participating in the Japanese Musculoskeletal Oncology Group. The primary end‐point is the CBR (CBR, including complete or partial response and stable disease) at 12 weeks after treatment with pazopanib according to RECIST. Eight patients were enrolled within the period. The histological subtypes were 5 ASPS, 2 ES, and 1 CCS. The median follow‐up period was 22.2 (range, 4.9‐24.9) months. All patients initially received pazopanib 800 mg once daily. The CBRs were 87.5% (7 of 8) and 75.0% (6 of 8) according to RECIST and Choi criteria at 12 weeks after pazopanib treatment, respectively. The CBRs at 12 weeks according to RECIST were 80.0%, 100.0%, and 100.0% in ASPS, ES, and CCS, respectively. Partial response was observed in 1 ASPS according to RECIST and 3 ASPS and 1 ES according to Choi criteria at 12 weeks after pazopanib treatment. This study documented antitumor activity of pazopanib, especially in ASPS. These results support the frontline use of pazopanib for ASPS. Prospective data collection is desired using both RECIST and Choi criteria for these rare chemoresistant tumors.
Social story‐based oral health promotion for preschool children with special healthcare needs: A 24‐month randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zhou Ni , Wong Hai Ming , McGrath Colman
Published: June 2020

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of the social story‐based intervention in promoting the oral health status among preschool children with special healthcare needs.

Methods

The 24‐month randomized controlled trial recruited 306 children from centres that provided educational training for 2‐ to 6‐year‐old children who had special healthcare needs. The participants received standardized toothbrushing training and oral health education materials. The education materials for children in the test group were validated social stories, while materials for children in the control group were standard leaflets. Those materials were introduced in each training session and used at home by parents. Children's oral health status and oral health‐related behaviours were assessed before and after interventions. Data were analysed via generalized estimating equations, negative binomial regression and binary logistic regression.

Results

There was no significant difference in caries experience among children in both groups after 24 months. However, children in the test group showed better oral hygiene status and better toothbrushing performance, and they were more likely to visit a dentist (OR = 2.00, 95% CI:1.15,3.49) than their peers in the control group. Caries progression was more likely to be observed among children who had low social skills or whose parents were not working full‐time. Children from high‐income families showed better oral hygiene status than their peers (Estimate = −0.11, 95%CI: −0.20,−0.01).

Conclusion

Social stories could be used to improve oral health‐related behaviours among young children with SHCN. The efficacy of the intervention might be associated with children's adaptive skills and family socio‐demographic status.