bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Similarities and differences between business process management and lean management
Authors: Uriona Maldonado Mauricio , Leusin Matheus Eduardo , Bernardes Thiago Carrano de Albuquerque , Vaz Caroline Rodrigues
Published: April 2020

Purpose

Business process management (BPM) and lean management (LM) are both recognized for improving organizational performance through continuous improvement, yet their similarities and differences have been poorly discussed so far. This paper aims to find their main differences and similarities using a systematic method for literature review.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a structured literature review known as SYSMAP (Scientometric and sYStematic yielding MApping Process). The method integrates bibliometrics and content analysis procedures to perform in-depth analysis of the literature at hand.

Findings

Both methodologies seek continuous improvement with focus on the customer and process standardization, but they are divergent mainly in relation to the flow they intend to improve. The impossibility of implementing both methodologies in an effective way was also observed, mainly due to the differences they present in relation to how to achieve the continuous improvement cycle.

Research limitations/implications

As any other literature reviews, the major limitation is to have omitted relevant literature even though all available procedures have been used to avoid this situation.

Practical implications

This paper offers a novel perspective from the practitioner side. LM may be better used in human-intensive process improvement whereas BPM in technology-intensive ones. Such characteristics open up new opportunities for practitioners aiming at integrating both approaches.

Originality/value

This is the first paper that systematically analyses the body of literature of BPM and LM with the means to better understand their similarities and differences.
How job-related diversity affects boards’ strategic tasks performance: the role of chairperson
Authors: Kanadlı Sadi Boğaç , Zhang Pingying , Kakabadse Nada K.
Published: April 2020

Purpose

Board diversity has been a hotly debated topic in the field of corporate governance. The paper examines the role of board chairperson and its moderating effect on the relationship between job-related diversity and boards’ strategic tasks performance. The purpose of this paper is to add on our body of knowledge about the impact of job-related diversity on boards’ strategic tasks performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper applies the structural equation modeling (SEM) technique to examine survey responses from chief executive officers (CEOs). Both the measurement model and structural model have obtained good results, supporting the appropriateness of using the SEM approach.

Findings

The findings suggest that there is a positive association between job-related diversity and boards’ strategic tasks performance, which is moderated by a chairperson’s leadership efficacy and the option of a former-CEO as board chair.

Practical implications

To achieve the intended effect of job-related diversity in boards, policymakers need to be mindful about the importance of the board chairperson. Board chairperson’s characteristics such as leadership efficacy and a former-CEO experience would amplify the positive effect of diversity.

Originality/value

This research paper contributes to the literature on board diversity, board leadership and strategic management of firms. Findings validated researchers’ concern about the negligence of examining moderating factors in board diversity research. Moreover, results echo the concern that board leadership research should shift the attention from structural aspects to the behavioral issues. Finally, this study is the first to show the positive influence of a board chairperson in disseminating benefits of a diverse board.
Efficiency estimation and reduction potential of the Chinese construction industry via SE-DEA and artificial neural network
Authors: Yuan Fanning , Tang Miaohan , Hong Jingke
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The objective of this study is to evaluate the overall technical efficiency, labor efficiency, capital efficiency and equipment efficiency of 30 Chinese construction sectors to foster sustainable economic growth in the construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed the super-efficiency data envelopment analysis (SE-DEA) and artificial neural network model (ANN) to evaluate the industrial performance and improvement potential of the Chinese regional construction sectors from 2000 to 2017.

Findings

Results showed that the overall technical and capital efficiencies displayed relatively stable patterns. Equipment efficiency presented a relatively huge fluctuation during the sample period. Meanwhile, labor, capital and equipment efficiencies could potentially improve in the next five years. A spatial examination of efficiencies implied that the economic level was still a major factor in determining the efficiency performance of the regional construction industry. Beijing, Shanghai and Zhejiang were consistently the leading regions with the best performance in all efficiencies. Shandong and Hubei were critical regions with respect to their large reduction potential of labor, capital and equipment.

Research limitations/implications

The study focused on the regional efficiency performance of the construction industry; however, it failed to further deeply discover the mechanism that captured the regional inefficiency. In addition, sample datasets used to predict might induce the accuracy of prediction results. Qualitative policy implications failed to regress the efficiency performance of the industrial policy variables. These limitations will be discussed in our further researches.

Practical implications

Enhancing the overall performance of the Chinese construction industry should focus on regions located in the western areas. In comparison with labor and capital efficiencies, equipment efficiency should be given priority by eliminating outdated equipment and developing high technology in the construction industry. In addition, the setting of the national reduction responsibility system should be stratified to account for regional variations.

Originality/value

The findings of this study can provide a systematic understanding for the current and future industry performance of the Chinese construction industry, which would help decision makers to customize appropriate strategies to improve the overall industrial performance with the consideration of regional differences.
The SME ‘styling’ of HEI – HR of management of international mobility: motivations, benefits and barriers as drivers of innovation
Authors: Lichy Jessica , McLeay Fraser
Published: April 2020

Purpose

As government funding continues to decrease, higher education (HE) providers are pressed to become autonomous in terms of managing resources and innovation. Many operate as small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), expanding business activities beyond borders by integrating programmes of International Academic Mobility (IAM). Such programmes involve managing the flow of staff beyond national borders, contributing to a key dimension of internationalisation and IAM-driven innovation. This paper seeks to ascertain the motivations, benefits and barriers for undertaking IAM, and the HR processes through which they operate.

Design/methodology/approach

A four-stage qualitative methodological approach including interviews with 26 participants is employed to identify factors that motivate staff to participate in IAM programmes.

Findings

Eight factors that motivate staff to be involved with IAM (breaking from routine, leisure/recreation, socio-cultural discovery, networking, altruism, developing new skills/capabilities, research/funding collaboration and self-enhancement) and four issues that act as barriers (funding, HR myopia/lack of information, personal circumstances and schedule constraints) are identified.

Originality/value

This study contributes to an important yet under-researched area of employee-driven IAM, developing a conceptual framework that draws from and enriches: expectancy theory, communities of practice, social and human capital theories and intrapreneurship (i.e. employee-driven innovation).
Impact of the application of ISO 9001 standards on the climate and satisfaction of the members of a school
Authors: Fernández-Cruz Francisco José , Rodríguez-Mantilla Jesús Miguel , Fernández Díaz Mª José
Published: April 2020

Purpose

Recently, the application of quality management systems (QMS) in educational institutions has become widespread, in an effort to improve diverse processes and results in schools. However, there are very few studies that enable us to confirm whether these QMS bring true changes that are sustainable over time and lead to improvements in these institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

This study thus aims to assess the impact of the implementation of ISO:9001 standards on school climate and on the satisfaction of the members of the educational community at 80 Spanish preschools, primary and secondary schools in different autonomous communities.

Findings

The analyses performed show conclusive results regarding the impact of ISO:9001 standards on teachers' involvement in improving the school's climate, conflict resolution by the management team and in families' involvement and satisfaction with the school. However, no apparent evidence was found of the impact on relations among teachers, conflict resolution among staff members and the perception of satisfaction by the teachers themselves.

Research limitations/implications

We must bear in mind that the results and conclusions obtained are based on the instrument developed for this study, where it has been the members of the schools themselves who have assessed the changes they have perceived or that have taken place. However, due to the limitation of the instrument, it could be complemented in future research with external evaluations that could complement the results obtained in the present study.

Originality/value

Furthermore, greater impact of the ISO standards was identified in schools from certain regions (Valencia and Andalusia), in state-assisted private schools, in smaller schools and in institutions which have been implementing the QMS for longer periods of time. The management team also perceived a greater improvement in climate than did teachers.
Toward understanding FinTech and its industry
Authors: Knewtson Heather S. , Rosenbaum Zachary A.
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to define FinTech, differentiating it from financial technology and use the definition to develop an industry framework.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the existing literature on FinTech and incorporating these contributions into a traditional financial structure, characteristics are outlined and placed into a framework that describes the FinTech industry.

Findings

FinTech is a specific type of Financial Technology, defined as technology used to provide financial markets a financial product or financial service, characterized by sophisticated technology relative to existing technology in that market. Firms that primarily use FinTech are classified as FinTech firms. Using these definitions, the paper provides a structure for the FinTech industry, classifying each type of FinTech firm by FinTech characteristics.

Research limitations/implications

Research that would inform the economic importance of FinTech would be served with an increased understanding of FinTech firms and the FinTech industry.

Originality/value

This paper contributes by defining FinTech and developing a comprehensive framework to describe the emerging FinTech industry.
New perspectives from technology adoption in senior cohousing facilities
Authors: Angioni Margherita , Musso Fabio
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the integration of industry 4.0 related technologies of telehealth within innovative housing models addressed to senior population, in order to facing the growing issue of a sustainable management of the population ageing.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative exploratory analysis of four case studies of senior cohousing facilities located in different countries was performed. The cases analysed were selected as pioneering cases in the adoption of innovative and economically sustainable organizational solutions.

Findings

The study made it possible to identify which are the common characters that successful experiences have highlighted. Although each facility needs to adapt to the social, cultural, demographic and economic context in which it is located, there are some recurring aspects, which have proved to be key success factors.

Research limitations/implications

This research analyses only four cases. This suggests that the sample does not provide an exhaustive representation of the models adopted in this field. However, the study is an exploratory research and it can provide a basis for further analyses.

Practical implications

This study provides valuable indications for the design and management of senior cohousing facilities, as regards the services to be offered, the network of services and facilities that can be complementary to the residences, the activities to be conducted and organized, the degree of involvement of the elderly in the planning of activities and services. With regard to the adoption of telehealth-related technologies, the study provides indications on which new technologies resulting from the industry 4.0 revolution are going to be adopted, that is, remote surveillance, remote diagnostics and the use of sensors and video. These technologies, thanks to the artificial intelligence, can detect anomalies and provide predictive analyses on the behaviour and health of the elderly.

Originality/value

The study made it possible to identify the key success factors for senior cohousing facilities regardless of the characteristics of the context in which they are located. In addition, it provides a first analysis of the potential of telehealth-related technological solutions, paving the way for further studies aimed at assessing how, thanks to new technologies, the level of economic sustainability of senior cohousing solutions can be improved.
Successional habitat filtering of rainforest trees is explained by potential growth more than by functional traits
Authors: Kleinschmidt Svenja , Wanek Wolfgang , Kreinecker Felix , Hackl Daniel , Jenking Daniel , Weissenhofer Anton , Hietz Peter
Published: April 2020

Species along successional gradients differ in functional traits, which may function as environmental filters and also explain differences in growth rates. Alternatively, species might be filtered by growth rates and these are explained by differences in other traits. We explored the relationships between leaf and wood traits, growth and successional habitat, and asked if growth is related to habitat because both are driven by a similar set of traits or if growth is the main trait explaining habitat and relationships with other traits are indirect.

Tropical trees are often classified as second‐growth (SG) or old‐growth (OG) specialists, and generalists. Since succession is a continuous process and lumping species into three groups may not do justice to gradual differences, we tested if a continuous variable based on relative tree abundance in OG and SG forests might be a better predictor than classifying trees' habitat preferences into categories.

We measured the height growth of 47 trees species planted in a reforestation trial in Costa Rica and evaluated size‐standardized potential growth during the first years when there was little shading among trees. Growth and habitat were related to wood density (WD), theoretical hydraulic conductivity (Kh), specific leaf area (SLA), leaf dry matter content (LDMC) and leaf nitrogen content (N).

Potential growth rates and Kh were significantly correlated with habitat measured on a continuous scale, while growth and LDMC differed among the three groups of habitat specialization. Growth was also correlated with WD and Kh.

Habitat specialization was correlated with the first principal component of the functional traits space. However, structural equation models suggest that the relationship with leaf and wood traits is mostly indirect and potential growth is the most important trait directly related to environmental filtering along a successional gradient. In our dataset, classifiying the successional status of species using the proportion of records from OG forests explains traits about as well as a classification into three groups, but provides more information about the species' position along the successional gradient.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Managing the risk of Vibrio parahaemolyticus infections associated with oyster consumption: A review
Authors: Ndraha Nodali , Wong Hin‐chung , Hsiao Hsin‐I
Published: April 2020

Vibrio parahaemolyticus is a Gram‐negative bacterium that is naturally present in the marine environment. Oysters, which are water filter feeders, may accumulate this pathogen in their soft tissues, thus increasing the risk of V. parahaemolyticus infection among people who consume oysters. In this review, factors affecting V. parahaemolyticus accumulation in oysters, the route of the pathogen from primary production to consumption, and the potential effects of climate change were discussed. In addition, intervention strategies for reducing accumulation of V. parahaemolyticus in oysters were presented. A literature review revealed the following information relevant to the present study: (a) managing the safety of oysters (for human consumption) from primary production to consumption remains a challenge, (b) there are multiple factors that influence the concentration of V. parahaemolyticus in oysters from primary production to consumption, (c) climate change could possibly affect the safety of oysters, both directly and indirectly, placing public health at risk, (d) many intervention strategies have been developed to control and/or reduce the concentration of V. parahaemolyticus in oysters to acceptable levels, but most of them are mainly focused on the downstream steps of the oyster supply chain, and (c) although available regulation and/or guidelines governing the safety of oyster consumption are mostly available in developed countries, limited food safety information is available in developing countries. The information provided in this review may serve as an early warning for managing the future effects of climate change on the safety of oyster consumption.
Transcriptomic analysis reveals the regulation network of BmKrüppel homolog 1 in the oocyte development of Bombyx mori
Authors: Zhu Zi‐Dan , Hu Qi‐Hao , Tong Chun‐Mei , Yang Hong‐Guang , Zheng Si‐Chun , Feng Qi‐Li , Deng Hui‐Min
Published: April 2020

Krüppel homolog 1 (Kr‐h1), a zinc finger transcription factor, is involved in the metamorphosis and adult reproduction of insects. However, the role of Kr‐h1 in reproduction of holometabolic insects remains to be elucidated. The regulation network of Kr‐h1‐associated genes in the reproduction in Bombyx mori was investigated in this study. The higher expression level of BmKr‐h1 in the ovaries was detected during the late pupal stage and adults. RNA interference (RNAi)‐mediated depletion of BmKr‐h1 in the female at day 6 of pupae resulted in abnormal oocytes at 48 h post‐double‐stranded RNA treatment, which showed less yolk protein deposition and partially transparent chorion. RNA‐seq and subsequent differentially expressed transcripts analysis showed that knockdown of BmKr‐h1 caused a decrease in the expression of 2882 genes and an increase in the expression of 2565 genes in the oocytes at day 8 of pupae. Totally, 27 genes coding for transcription factors were down‐regulated, while six genes coding for other transcription factors were up‐regulated. BmKr‐h1 bound to the Kr‐h1 binding site of the transcription factors AP‐1 (activating protein‐1) and FOXG1 to increase their messenger RNA transcripts in the BmN cells, respectively. Gene Ontology enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses of that positively co‐expressed with AP‐1 and FOXG1 transcripts showed mainly enrichment in the metabolic‐related pathways, the nutrient absorption and the yolk protein absorption processes. These data suggested that BmKr‐h1 might directly regulate the metabolic‐related pathways, the nutrient absorption and the yolk protein absorption processes or probably through AP‐1 and /or FOXG1 to regulate oocyte development.
Evaluation of a new measurement method of indoxyl sulfate in hemodialysis patients
Authors: Abe Takaya , Onoda Mitsutaka , Matsuura Tomohiko , Sugimura Jun , Obara Wataru , Sasaki Nariyuki , Kato Tetsuo , Tatsumi Kenta , Maruyama Toru
Published: April 2020

Indoxyl sulfate (IS) is related to the development of cardiovascular disease and total mortality in dialysis patients. High‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is the conventional measurement approach. However, the HPLC method is difficult to perform in real time. Recently, the IS Assay Kit “NIPRO”, which enables the measuring of total IS by the enzyme method, was developed. This new reagent allows the easy and quick measurement of many samples using the automatic biochemical analyzer. Moreover, it was reported that it demonstrated satisfactory analytical performance. If this enzyme method is useful for measuring IS in hemodialysis, we can expect that the mechanism in which the IS effects adversely on a body as uremic toxins will be clarified. However, the enzyme method is more easily influenced by other coexisting substances. In this study, we have assessed on how the uremic toxins and anticoagulation effect on this new reagent and evaluate whether it can be put into practice effectively for hemodialysis patients. For the enzyme method, accuracy, simultaneous repeatability, linearity, limit of detection, influence of coexisting materials, and correlation with the HPLC method were examined. Accuracy and simultaneous repeatability were satisfactory, and linearity was good. The limit of detection was acceptable, and there was no influence of coexisting materials. With regard to the correlation, the regression equation was y = 0.947X + 7.987 and the correlation coefficient (r) was 0.972. This new reagent showed sufficient fundamental performance and had a good correlation with the conventional HPLC method for assessing the plasma of dialysis patients.
Formation and stability of Eucommia ulmoides Oliver seed oil‐loaded inverse microemulsion formed by food‐grade ingredients and its antioxidant activities
Authors: Zhu Shiye , Li Jiaxing , Liu Yating , Chen Liang
Published: April 2020

Eucommia ulmoides Oliver seed oil (E.u oil) as a functional oil is rich in many natural active components such as α‐linolenic acid (56% to 63%), vitamin E, aucubin, and so on. In this study, water‐in‐oil (W/O) microemulsions composed of Eucommia ulmoides Oliver seed oil, distilled water, a blend of Sorbitan monooleate 80 (Span 80) and Polysorbate (20) sorbitan monooleate (Tween 80), and propylene glycol were prepared for improving the compatibility of Eucommia ulmoides Oliver seed oil. Pseudoternary phase diagrams were built to illustrate the phase behavior of the microemulsions, based on hydrophilic–lipophilic balance values, cosurfactant type, the proportion of cosurfactant, and the changing environmental stress. Dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy, and electrical conductivity measurements were performed to characterize the microstructural aspects. The optimum process conditions at which the Eucommia ulmoides Oliver seed oil‐loaded microemulsion had good tolerance to pH and salinity were: Propylene glycol served as cosurfactant, water–Propylene glycol, and Span 80‐Tween 80 ratios separately kept constant at 1:1 and 6:4. These microemulsions with narrow size distribution, nanoscale particle size (below 60 nm), transparent appearance had a wide range of oil phase content and free‐radical scavenging capacity toward DPPH and ABTS radicals with half‐maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of 49.20 and 33.43 mg/mL, respectively.

Practical Application

This nanostructure, environmental stability, and antioxidant activity of microemulsions containing Eucommia ulmoides Oliver seed oil is a potential delivery system as an alternative to α‐linolenic acid and can be used for the delivery of peptides, proteins, antioxidants, and water‐soluble nutrients.
Shrouded in Secrecy: International Relations according to Carson, Berman and Lake
Authors: Ecke Jonas
Published: April 2020

Unfortunately, the political will to meaningfully reduce conflicts on a global scale has plummeted since the post‐Cold War era.
Inhibition of HSP90 and Activation of HSF1 Diminish Macrophage NLRP3 Inflammasome Activity in Alcohol‐Associated Liver Injury
Authors: Choudhury Asmita , Bullock Daniel , Lim Arlene , Argemi Josepmaria , Orning Pontus , Lien Egil , Bataller Ramon , Mandrekar Pranoti
Published: April 2020

Background

Activation of NLRP3 in liver macrophages contributes to alcohol‐associated liver disease (ALD). Molecular chaperone heat shock protein (HSP) 90 facilitates NLRP3 inflammasome activity during infections and inflammatory diseases. We previously reported that HSP90 is induced in ALD and regulates proinflammatory cytokines, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and IL‐6. Whether HSP90 affects IL‐1β and IL‐18 regulated by NLRP3 inflammasome in ALD is unknown. Here, we hypothesize that HSP90 modulated NLRP3 inflammasome activity and affects IL‐1β and IL‐18 secretion in ALD.

Methods

The expression of HSP90AA1 and NLRP3 inflammasome genes was evaluated in human alcoholic livers and in mouse model of ALD. The importance of HSP90 on NLRP3 inflammasome activation in ALD was evaluated by administering HSP90 inhibitor, 17‐dimethylaminoethylamino‐17‐demethoxygeldanamycin (17‐DMAG) to mice subjected to ALD, and in vitro to bone marrow‐derived macrophages (BMDM) stimulated with LPS and ATP. The effect of activation of HSF1/HSPA1A axis during HSP90 inhibition or direct activation during heat shock of BMDMs on NLRP3 activity and secretion of downstream cytokines was evaluated.

Results

We found positive correlation between induction of HSP90 and NLRP3 inflammasome genes in human alcoholic cirrhotic livers. Administration of 17‐DMAG in mouse model of ALD significantly down‐regulated NLRP3 inflammasome‐mediated caspase‐1 (CASP‐1) activity and cytokine secretion, with reduction in ALD. 17‐DMAG‐mediated decrease in NLRP3 was restricted to liver macrophages. Using BMDMs, we show that inhibition of HSP90 prevented CASP‐1 activity, and Gasdermin D (GSDMD) cleavage, important in release of active IL‐1β and IL‐18. Interestingly, activation of the heat shock factor 1 (HSF1)/HSPA1A axis, either during HSP90 inhibition or by heat shock, decreased NLRP3 inflammasome activity and reduced secretion of cytokines.

Conclusion

Our studies indicate that inhibition of HSP90 and activation of HSF1/HSPA1A reduce IL‐1β and IL‐18 via decrease in NLRP3/CASP‐1 and GSDMD activity in ALD.
Using ecological momentary assessment (EMA) to explore mechanisms of alcohol‐involved HIV risk behavior among men who have sex with men (MSM)
Authors: Wray Tyler B. , Monti Peter M. , Kahler Christopher W. , Guigayoma John P.
Published: April 2020

Background and Aims

Heavy drinking is associated with increased risk of incident HIV infection among men who have sex with men (MSM). Past studies suggest that this association may be due to the tendency for intoxication to interfere with condom use. However, research on potential causal mechanisms explaining this relationship has been limited primarily to laboratory studies. In this study, we tested several potential mediators of the relationship between alcohol use level and HIV risk behavior.

Design

Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) methods conducted over a 30‐day period.

Setting and participants/cases

MSM (n = 100) in the northeastern United States.

Measurements

Participants completed daily diary surveys and up to six experience sampling surveys randomly prompted throughout the day.

Findings

Very heavy levels of drinking (12+ drinks) increased the odds of engaging in any sex [odds ratio (OR) = 1.87, P < 0.001]. Coefficient products and 95% confidence intervals indicated that both subjective sexual arousal (OR = 1.52, P < 0.001) and sex intentions (OR = 1.74, P < 0.001) significantly mediated the association between very heavy drinking and the odds of sex. When participants reported sex, the odds of engaging in high‐risk condomless anal sex (CAS) increased incrementally after drinking heavily (five to 11 drinks; OR = 3.27, P = 0.006) and very heavily (12+ drinks; OR = 4.42, P < 0.001). Only subjective sexual arousal significantly mediated the association between alcohol use level and high‐risk CAS (OR = 1.16, P = 0.040).

Conclusions

Increases in subjective sexual arousal after drinking heavily appear to partly account for alcohol‐related HIV risk behaviors in the daily lives of men who have sex with men. Alcohol's role in strengthening motivationally consistent emotional states may therefore play a more important role in facilitating alcohol‐involved HIV risk than explicit sexual motivation.
Colour‐sidedness in Gloucester cattle is associated with a complex structural variant impacting regulatory elements downstream of KIT
Authors: Artesi M. , Tamma N. , Deckers M. , Karim L. , Coppieters W. , Van den Broeke A. , Georges M. , Charlier C. , Durkin K.
Published: April 2020

Colour‐sidedness is a striking coat colour pattern found in a number of cattle breeds, typically characterised by a white stripe that extends along the back, head and belly of the animal. This dominant phenotype is caused by two related translocations (Cs6 and Cs29) that alter a region downstream of the KIT gene. Gloucester cattle are native to the UK and are known for an unusual colour‐sided pattern that does not extend to the head. We carried out whole‐genome sequencing of two Gloucester bulls as well as colour‐sided Irish Moiled, British White and Pustertaler Sprinzen for comparison. We found that the Gloucester cattle also have a complex structural variant downstream of KIT, which overlaps the regions involved in Cs6 and Cs29. All three alleles potentially disrupt a number of putative regulatory elements downstream of KIT. These results complement and expand on the recently published work focused on the Pinzgauer breed from Austria, a carrier of the same colour‐sided pattern as seen in Gloucester cattle.
Innervation of the wing membrane in the bent‐winged bat Miniopterus fuliginosus
Authors: Aoyama Asuna , Doysabas Karla Cristine Callano , Iida Atsuo , Hondo Eiichi
Published: April 2020

The nerves that innervate the fingertips and wing membrane from the upper arm of the bent‐winged bat Miniopterus fuliginosus were examined under a stereomicroscope. The radial, median, ulnar and musculocutaneous nerves were formed by the brachial plexus, which ran to the wing membrane. The two suspected axillary nerves ran to the wing membrane. The radial nerve ran to the end of the first digit, while the median nerve ran along the forearm and subsequently branched‐off to run along the second to fifth digits up to the end of the phalanges. The ulnar nerve ran to the plagiopatagium on the extensor side of the elbow joint. Finally, the musculocutaneous nerve passed through the ventral side of the humerus and branched out at the elbow joint to run radially to the propatagium area. In this study, the visible nerves that were distributed from the upper arm to the fingertips of Miniopterus fuliginosus were formed by C6–T1.
A novel mutation of Twinkle in Perrault syndrome: A not rare diagnosis?
Authors: Gotta Fabio , Lamp Merit , Geroldi Alessandro , Trevisan Lucia , Origone Paola , Fugazza Giuseppina , Fabbri Sabrina , Nesti Claudia , Rubegni Anna , Morani Federica , Santorelli Filippo Maria , Bellone Emilia , Mandich Paola
Published: April 2020

Perrault syndrome is a rare disorder characterized by ovarian dysgenesis, bilateral sensorineural hearing loss and associated with mutations in six mitochondrial proteins. Additional neurological features were also described. Herein, we report on a 27‐year‐old woman with Perrault syndrome (PS), moderate ataxia and axonal sensory‐motor peripheral neuropathy in whom we identified compound heterozygous mutations in the TWNK gene (p.Val507Ile and the novel p.Phe248Ser variant). Fewer than 30 patients with PS have been reported worldwide. Neurological involvement is more frequently associated with mutations in TWNK and indicates possible genotype–phenotype correlations. TWNK mutations should be searched in patients with sensory ataxia, early onset bilateral sensorineural hearing loss, and ovarian dysfunction in women.
Retrospectively diagnosing congenital cytomegalovirus infections in symptomatic infants is challenging
Authors: Lüsebrink Natalia , Kieslich Matthias , Rabenau Holger F. , Schlößer Rolf L. , Buxmann Horst
Published: April 2020

Aim

Our aim was to analyse the diagnostic workup of hospitalised infants with symptoms of congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections.

Methods

This retrospective study was carried out at the University Hospital Frankfurt, Germany, from 2008 to 2017 on infants aged 4 weeks to 12 months presenting with neurological symptoms consistent with congenital CMV infections.

Results

We studied 117 infants, and workup data for CMV infections were available for 84%. Of these, 54% were immunoglobulin G‐ and immunoglobulin M‐seronegative for CMV or immunoglobulin G‐seropositive with no viral shedding. Congenital CMV infection was excluded in these cases. In 16%, the CMV workup was incomplete, precluding a definitive diagnosis. Dried blood spots (DBS) were requested from 30%. CMV polymerase chain reaction was negative in 19 of these 29 infants, and CMV deoxyribonucleic acid detection confirmed congenital CMV infections in six patients. DBS had been destroyed in line with German law in four cases. Congenital CMV infections were diagnosed (5%) or excluded (62%) in 67% of patients and unanswered in the remaining 33%.

Conclusion

Diagnoses of congenital CMV infections were widely considered and found in 5%. CMV was not stringently investigated in all patients or remained elusive due to German law on destroying DBS.
Employees’ Work Patterns–Office Type Fit and the Dynamic Relationship Between Flow and Performance
Authors: Soriano Aida , Kozusznik Malgorzata W. , Peiró José M. , Demerouti Evangelia
Published: April 2020

Organizations must improve their employees’ performance in order to compete effectively. Evidence shows that flow experiences enhance performance. However, a dynamic approach to this phenomenon is needed. Furthermore, different work patterns (based on task profiles) can have specific environmental requirements (office types). This research aims to analyze the dynamic relationship between office workers’ flow and in‐role and extra‐role performance, considering work pattern–office type fit as a predictor of the initial level of each of these three variables. A total of 83 workers participated in this diary study. Results of the latent growth model showed a positive association between: (1) the initial levels of flow and in‐role and extra‐role performance; and (2) the changes in flow and in‐role and extra‐role performance. Furthermore, work pattern–office type fit directly influenced workers’ flow. In addition, flow mediated between work pattern–office type fit and in‐role performance. Our results show that workspaces that fit employees’ work patterns are more likely to induce flow, which, in turn, will have beneficial consequences for the organization.
Platform Labor and In/Formality: Organization among Motorcycle Taxi Drivers in Bandung, Indonesia
Authors: Frey Bronwyn
Published: April 2020

There is a growing consensus that emerging forms of flexibilized platform labor (e.g., Upwork, Uber) necessitate new forms of mobilization to resist exploitation, given workers’ atomization and lack of statutory rights. However, Euro‐American concerns about radical reductions in labor security are countered by workforces in the “near South,” where precarious, unprotected work has long been the norm. I explore incrementalist organization in motorcycle taxi (ojek) drivers’ resistance to the flexible labor regime of Go‐Jek, an Indonesian ride‐hailing app. I examineojek pangkalan(older‐style informal‐sector drivers) and Himpunan Driver Bandung Raya (HDBR, a grassroots app‐based driver association) in the city of Bandung. Although antagonistic toward each other, ojek pangkalan and HDBR employ similar improvisatory strategies, notably micro‐territorial basecamps and grassroots social security, to establish claims to their working lives. Incrementalist strategies in Indonesia are thus highly flexible in helping workers manage precarity across formal and informal contexts. By examining organization repertoires among app‐based and older‐style ojek drivers, this paper contributes to discussions about how the precarity of platform labor is produced and managed in a global context.
Effects of pasture and forest microclimatic conditions on the foraging activity of leaf‐cutting ants
Authors: Bustamante Santiago , Amarillo‐Suárez Angela , Wirth Rainer
Published: April 2020

The fragmentation and transformation of land cover modify the microclimate of ecosystems. These changes have the potential to modify the foraging activity of animals, but few studies have examined this topic. In this study, we investigated whether and how the foraging activity of the leaf‐cutter ant Atta cephalotes is modified by microclimatic variations due to land cover change from forest to pasture. We characterized the microclimate of each habitat and identified alterations in foraging behavior in response to relative humidity (RH), air temperature, and surface temperature along ant foraging trails by synchronously assessing foraging activity (number of ants per 5 min including incoming laden and unladen and outgoing ants) and microclimatic variables (air temperature, RH, and maximum and minimum surface temperature along the foraging trail). There were climatic differences between habitats during the day but not throughout the night, and A. cephalotes was found to have a high tolerance for foraging under severe microclimatic changes. This species can forage at surface temperatures between 17 and 45°C, air temperatures between 20 and 36°C, and an RH between 40% and 100%. We found a positive effect of temperature on the foraging activity of A. cephalotes in the pasture, where the species displayed thermophilic behavior and the ability to forage across a wide range of temperatures and RH. These results provide a mechanism to partially explain why A. cephalotes becomes highly prolific as anthropogenic disturbances increase and why it has turned into a key player of human‐modified neotropical landscapes.

Abstract in Spanish is available with online material
Seasonal dietary niche contraction in coexisting Neotropical frugivorous bats (Stenodermatinae)
Authors: Shipley Jeremy Ryan , Twining Cornelia W.
Published: April 2020

Tropical dry forests are characterized by punctuated seasonal precipitation patterns that drive primary production and the availability of fruits, seeds, flowers, and insects throughout the year. In environments in which the quantity and quality of food resources varies seasonally, consumers should adjust their foraging behavior to maximize energy intake while minimizing overlap with competitors during periods of low food availability. Here, we investigated how the diets of frugivorous bats in tropical dry forests of NW Mexico varied in response to seasonal availability and how this affected dietary overlap of morphologically similar species. We performed stable isotope analyses to understand temporal and interspecific patterns of overall isotopic niche breadth, trophic position, and niche overlap in the diet of six frugivorous species of closely related New World leaf‐nosed bats (family Phyllostomidae, subfamily Stenodermatinae). We estimated seasonal changes in resource abundance in two complementary ways: (a) vegetative phenology based on long‐term remote sensing data and (b) observational data on food availability from previously published insect and plant fruiting surveys. In all species, there was a consistent pattern of reduced isotopic niche breadth during periods of low food availability. However, patterns of niche overlap varied between morphologically similar species. Overall, results from our study and others suggest that seasonal food availability likely determines overall dietary niche breadth in Phyllostomidae and that despite morphological specialization, it is likely that other mechanisms, such as opportunistic foraging and spatiotemporal niche segregation, may play a role in maintaining coexistence rather than simply dietary displacement.

Abstract in Spanish is available with online material.
The macroeconomic impact of NAFTA termination
Authors: Steinberg Joseph B.
Published: April 2020

US President Trump has threatened to leave the North American Free Trade Agreement. How much would each member country gain or lose if this threat were carried out? Would trade imbalances within the region diminish? What would the transition to new production and consumption patterns look like? I provide quantitative answers to these questions using a dynamic general equilibrium model with a multi‐sector input–output production structure, heterogeneous firms that make forward‐looking export participation decisions, and adjustment frictions in trade and factor markets. Regional trade flows would fall dramatically, and while the US trade deficit with Canada would decline, the deficit with Mexico would grow. Welfare would fall by 0.04%, 0.12%, and 0.2% in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, respectively, and transition dynamics would significantly affect welfare in both the short run and the long run.
Biogeographical analyses to facilitate targeted conservation of orchid diversity hotspots in Costa Rica
Authors: Crain Benjamin J. , Fernández Melania
Published: April 2020

Aim

We conduct a biogeographical assessment of orchids in a global biodiversity hotspot to explore their distribution and occurrences of local hotspots while identifying geographic attributes underpinning diversity patterns. We evaluate habitat characteristics associated with orchid diversity hotspots and make comparisons to other centres of orchid diversity to test for global trends. The ultimate goal was to identify an overall set of parameters that effectively characterize critical habitats to target in local and global orchid conservation efforts.

Location

Costa Rica; Mesoamerica.

Taxon

Orchidaceae.

Methods

Data from an extensive set of herbarium records were used to map orchid distributions and to identify diversity hotspots. Hotspot data were combined with geographic attribute data, including environmental and geopolitical variables, and a random forest regression model was utilized to assess the importance of each variable for explaining the distribution of orchid hotspots. A likelihood model was created based on variable importance to identify locations where suitable habitats and unidentified orchid hotspots might occur.

Results

Orchids were widely distributed and hotspots occurred primarily in mountainous regions, but occasionally at lower elevations. Precipitation and vegetation cover were the most important predictive variables associated with orchid hotspots. Variable values underpinning Costa Rican orchid hotspots were similar to those reported at other sites worldwide. Models also identified suitable habitats for sustaining orchid diversity that occurred outside of known hotspots and protected areas.

Main conclusions

Several orchid diversity hotspots and potentially suitable habitats occur outside of known distributions and/or protected areas. Recognition of these sites and their associated geographic attributes provides clear targets for optimizing orchid conservation efforts in Costa Rica, although certain caveats warrant consideration. Habitats linked with orchid hotspots in Costa Rica were similar to those documented elsewhere, suggesting the existence of a common biogeographical trend regarding critical habitats for orchid conservation in disparate tropical regions.
Redefining significance and reproducibility for medical research: A plea for higherP‐value thresholds for diagnostic and prognostic models
Authors: Steyerberg Ewout W. , Van Calster Ben
Published: April 2020

The role ofP‐values for null hypothesis testing is under debate. We aim to explore the impact of the significance threshold on estimates for the strengths of associations (“effects”) and the implications for different types of epidemiological research. We consider situations with normal distribution of a true effect, while varying the effect size. We confirm the occurrence of “testimation bias”: estimating effect size only if the test was statistically significant leads to exaggerated results. The absolute bias is largest for true effects around 0.7 times the size of the standard error: +220% bias if effects are selected after testing withP < .05, and +335% if tested withP < .005. Less bias was found for testing withP < .20 (+130%) and larger true effect sizes. We conclude that a lowerP‐value threshold for declaring statistical significance implies more exaggeration in an estimated effect. This implies that if a low threshold is used, effect size estimation should not be attempted, for example in the context of selecting promising discoveries that need further validation. Confirmatory studies, such as randomized controlled trials, might stick to the 0.05 threshold if adequately powered, while prediction modelling studies should use an even higher threshold, such as 0.2, to avoid strongly biased effect estimates.
Early access to clozapine in Early Intervention in Psychosis: Hope vs reality. A mixed method service analysis
Authors: Nikolić Nikola , Hill Katherine , Campbell Emogen , Wickramasinghe Vijitha , Whale Richard
Published: April 2020

Aim

Improving access to clozapine is a recognized priority nationally across Early Intervention in Psychosis Services (EIPS) in the UK. Treatment resistance (TR) may be identifiable from early episode psychosis and appears to be characterized by negative symptoms and younger age of onset. This mixed method cross‐sectional snapshot analysis of antipsychotic (AP) prescribing in an EIPS, explored clozapine eligibility (CE) and prioritization of AP prescribing based on choice, selectivity and appropriateness.

Method

We screened 150 service users and 79% (n = 119) were retained after inclusion criteria were applied. We explored CE in all service users who were indicated clozapine based on the product licence (n = 78), and whether there was association between CE and number of hospital admissions, AP trials, age at first episode and duration of untreated psychosis.

Results

Following multidisciplinary clinical discussions, we found that 23 service users were CE; 8 were offered and declined clozapine. When compared to non‐CE service users, significant factors associated with CE were history of two or more hospital admissions (Mann‐Whitney U = 269, P = .008), more than two trials of two different APs (Mann‐Whitney U = 517, P ≤ .01), and younger age first episode (independent‐samples t‐test, P = .047). A total of 47.5% of all service users had been started on olanzapine as their first AP, despite high risk of cardiometabolic syndrome.

Conclusion

We propose that EIP services adopt a proactive approach in screening for TR, taking into account negative symptoms and young age at onset, prioritizing service users with two or more hospital admissions and AP trials.