bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of host-mimicking medium and biofilm growth on the ability of colistin to killPseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Sweeney Esther , Sabnis Akshay , Edwards Andrew M. , Harrison Freya
Published: August 2020

In vivobiofilms cause recalcitrant infections with extensive and unpredictable antibiotic tolerance. Here, we demonstrate increased tolerance of colistin byPseudomonas aeruginosawhen grown in cystic fibrosis-mimicking mediumversusstandard medium inin vitrobiofilm assays, and drastically increased tolerance when grown in anex vivoCF model versus thein vitroassay. We used colistin conjugated to the fluorescent dye BODIPY to assess the penetration of the antibiotic intoex vivobiofilms and showed that poor penetration partly explains the high doses of drug necessary to kill bacteria in these biofilms. The ability of antibiotics to penetrate the biofilm matrix is key to their clinical success, but hard to measure. Our results demonstrate both the importance of reduced entry into the matrix inin vivo-like biofilm, and the tractability of using a fluorescent tag and benchtop fluorimeter to assess antibiotic entry into biofilms. This method could be a relatively quick, cheap and useful addition to diagnostic and R&D pipelines, allowing the assessment of drug entry into biofilms, inin vivo-like conditions, prior to more detailed tests of biofilm killing.
Bacterial single-cell genomics enables phylogenetic analysis and reveals population structures fromin vitroevolutionary studies
Authors: Bawn Matt , Hernandez Johana , Trampari Eleftheria , Thilliez Gaetan , Webber Mark A. , Kingsley Robert A. , Hall Neil , Macaulay Iain C.
Published: August 2020

Single-cell DNA sequencing has the potential to reveal detailed hierarchical structures in evolving populations of cells. Single cell approaches are increasingly used to study clonal evolution in human ageing and cancer, but have not yet been deployed to study evolving microbial populations. Here, we present an approach for single bacterial genomic analysis using FACS isolation of individual bacteria followed by whole-genome amplification and sequencing. We apply this toin vitroexperimental evolution of a hypermutator strain ofSalmonellain response to antibiotic stress (ciprofloxacin). By analysing sequence polymorphisms in individual cells from the population we identified the presence and prevalence of sub-populations which have acquired polymorphisms in genes previously demonstrated to be associated with ciprofloxacin susceptibility. We were also able to identify that the population exposed to antibiotic stress was able to both develop resistance whilst maintaining diversity. This population structure could not be resolved from bulk sequence data, and our results show how high-throughput single-cell sequencing can enhance experimental studies of bacterial evolution.
Metabolic labeling of RNA using multiple ribonucleoside analogs enables the simultaneous evaluation of RNA synthesis and degradation rates
Authors: Kawata Kentaro , Wakida Hiroyasu , Yamada Toshimichi , Taniue Kenzui , Han Han , Seki Masahide , Suzuki Yutaka , Akimitsu Nobuyoshi
Published: August 2020

Gene expression is determined by a balance between RNA synthesis and RNA degradation. To elucidate the underlying regulatory mechanisms and principles of this, simultaneous measurements of RNA synthesis and degradation are required. Here, we report the development of “Dyrec-seq,” which uses 4-thiouridine and 5-bromouridine to simultaneously quantify RNA synthesis and degradation rates. Dyrec-seq enabled the quantification of RNA synthesis and degradation rates of 4702 genes in HeLa cells. Functional enrichment analysis showed that the RNA synthesis and degradation rates of genes are actually determined by the genes’ biological functions. A comparison of theoretical and experimental analyses revealed that the amount of RNA is determined by the ratio of RNA synthesis to degradation rates, whereas the rapidity of responses to external stimuli is determined only by the degradation rate. This study emphasizes that not only RNA synthesis but also RNA degradation is important in shaping gene expression patterns.
Breadth of external knowledge search in service sectors
Authors: Radicic Dragana
Published: August 2020

Purpose

There is a dearth of empirical research on the impact of external knowledge search on innovation performance in different categories of service firms. This study explores the effectiveness of the breadth of external search on product and process innovations in German firms. In particular, the author modelled a non-linear relationship between the breadth of knowledge and product and process innovations.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on the Mannheim Innovation Panel (MIP) data for the German service firms in the period 2014–2016, the author reported findings from a bivariate probit model which took into account mutual interdependence between product and process innovations. Moreover, the model was separately estimated for knowledge-intensive business services (KIBS) and other services. For comparative purposes, the author also estimated the model for manufacturing firms.

Findings

Empirical findings uniformly indicated an invertedU-shaped effect of the breadth of knowledge on both product and process innovations. Furthermore, the results demonstrated that using up to three knowledge sources increases the probability of a joint implementation of product and process innovations. These findings hold for both KIBS firms and other services. However, those service firms that focussed on a single type of innovation experienced diminishing returns to external knowledge when exploiting more than one source of knowledge. These results indicated that a simultaneous introduction of different types of innovation required diverse knowledge sources. In contrast, when focussing on a single type of innovation, service firms experienced diminishing returns when multiple sources were used. However, this finding was only partially found for manufacturing firms. Accordingly, this study’s findings provided support for the demarcation approach, insofar as the breadth of knowledge had a heterogenous impact on innovation in manufacturing relative to service firms.

Originality/value

Previous studies on the breadth of knowledge search mostly examined its influence on innovation performance without separately analysing manufacturing and service firms. The present study focussed on service firms that were further divided into KIBS and other service firms. By investigating potentially non-linear relationships between knowledge breadth and product and process innovations, it illustrated how different innovation strategies were affected by a diverse pool of external knowledge sources.
The value of supply chain integration in the Latin American agri-food industry: trust, commitment and performance outcomes
Authors: Ramirez Manuel Jesus , Roman Ivonne Eliany , Ramos Edgar , Patrucco Andrea Stefano
Published: August 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the antecedents and performance outcomes of supply chain integration in the agri-food industry in Latin America, a context that the literature on supply chain management has not extensively addressed. The quinoa supply chain, an industry that has encountered a boost in market demand in the past year, is selected as the unit of analysis. Supply chain integration dynamics are analyzed to provide recommendations about integration strategies and benefits in the agricultural sector.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual model was designed in this study, which includes the drivers (i.e. trust and commitment) and outcomes (i.e. operational and economic performance) of supply chain integration. The relationships were verified through a unique survey, the data of which were collected from 79 respondents operating at different levels of the Peruvian quinoa supply chain (i.e. suppliers, producers and customers). The proposed hypotheses were tested through the partial least squares (PLS) regression.

Findings

The results underscore the relevance of trust and commitment as enablers of supply chain integration initiatives in the agri-food industry. These factors are particularly essential for involving the farmers who are the most upstream actors in the supply chain and characterized by unstructured organizations. A high level of integration in these types of supply chain enhances the capacity to improve operational performance, which in turns positively affects the main economic indicators.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the discussion of supply chain integration in the agri-food industry, which remains unexplored thus far. It relies on a multitier collection of responses, which is extended to all the levels of the quinoa supply chain, thereby providing the study with a unique depth of analysis. Furthermore, this work contributes to the ongoing discourse on the performance impact of supply chain integration, which several SCM scholars have recently questioned.
Green warehousing, logistics optimization, social values and ethics and economic performance: the role of supply chain sustainability
Authors: Agyabeng-Mensah Yaw , Ahenkorah Esther , Afum Ebenezer , Dacosta Essel , Tian Zhongxing
Published: August 2020

Purpose

This study primarily explores the influence of green warehousing, logistics optimization and social values and ethics on supply chain sustainability and economic performance. The study further examines the mediating role of supply chain sustainability between economic performance and green warehousing, logistics optimization and social values and ethics.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs a quantitative research approach where survey data are collected from 200 managers of manufacturing companies in Ghana. The dataset is analyzed using partial least square structural equation modeling software (PLS-SEM) SmartPLS 3.

Findings

The results show that green warehousing and logistics optimization negatively influence economic performance but improves economic performance through supply chain sustainability. It is further discovered that social values and ethics have a positive influence on supply chain sustainability and economic performance.

Originality/value

This paper proposes and tests a theoretical model that explores the relationships between green warehousing, supply chain sustainability, economic performance, logistics optimization and social values and ethics through the resource dependency theory (RDT) in the manufacturing firms in Ghana.
Mobile technologies for contact tracing and prevention of COVID-19 positive cases: a cross- sectional study
Authors: S. Prabu , Velan Balamurugan , S. Christalin Nelson , F.V. Jayasudha , P. Visu , K. Janarthanan
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the techniques for versatile advancements in contact tracing for the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) positive cases in this pandemic and to introduce the way of using the mobile location information collected within the country India. As the method, an exploratory review of current measures was conducted for confirmed COVID-19 contact tracing after understanding the current situation of the world. This paper has examined the way of using free locational information in an innovative way to reduce the spread of COVID-19 spread.

Design/methodology/approach

COVID-19 pandemic is the utmost global economic and health challenge of the century. One powerful and consistent procedure to slow down the spread and decrease the effect of COVID-19 is to track the essential and auxiliary contacts of confirmed COVID-19 positive cases by using contact-tracing innovation.

Findings

Although it takes the information from various clients, there are numerous odds in the information. The sincere measures were taken by the authors to avoid the abuse of information by any kind. A portion of the tips for keeping information from getting abused is on the whole, the information ought to be with just higher specialists, and they ought not to have the authorization to impart information to anybody.

Originality/value

This paper helps to track the COVID-19 positive cases as of now by using the field information assortment and outbreak examination stages. At the same time, mobile location information used inside the current guideline, rules for information handlers must incorporate measures to reduce the abusing of information.
Aesthetics and conviviality as key factors in a successful wine tourism experience
Authors: Haller Coralie , Hess-Misslin Isabelle , Mereaux Jean-Paul
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Several studies in management science have called for a better understanding of the experience economy approach to develop wine tourism. Few studies, however, have analysed experiential dimensions in the context of French wine-growing regions. The purpose of this paper is to focus on the difference between what wine tourism providers consider relevant in their market offer and what customers expect from their wine tourism experience. A new categorisation of wine tourists’ expectations based on Pine and Gilmore’s (1998) four realms model and Quadri-Felliti and Fiore’s model (2012) are developed.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed methodology, qualitatively analysing 17 semi-structural interviews with the main wine tourism stakeholders in the Alsace region in north-east France and quantitatively analysing 233 questionnaires on wine tourists’ expectations and behaviours are adopted.

Findings

The study reveals a difference between experiential offers predicated on an educational approach and the explicit expectations of wine tourists (combining aesthetics, conviviality and authenticity, whose central focus is an encounter with the winemaker). Overall, the findings point to a need for greater inclusion of the experiential aspect in the offer designed for wine tourists.

Originality/value

The study identifies a gap between the educational dimension that professionals tend to promote in their offers and the real expectations of wine tourists who express more interest in the aesthetic dimension provided by an attractive visit environment and an enjoyable experience. At the heart of the authentic experience for wine tourists is meeting the winegrower, making authenticity a major factor.
Influence of micro-scale velocity slip on the dynamic characteristics of aerostatic slider
Authors: Chen Dongju , Kong Shuai , Liu Jingfang , Fan Jinwei
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose the pressure fluctuation to further evaluate and predict the dynamic and static characteristics of the aerostatic slider and improve the calculation accuracy of the aerostatic slider.

Design/methodology/approach

First-order velocity slip is introduced into the traditional gas-film fluid equation, and the numerical analysis method is used to solve the static performance of the aerostatic slider. The finite element analysis method is used to solve its dynamic characteristics.

Findings

It can be concluded from the simulation and experimental results that the model considering the velocity slip in the gas film flow is more accurate. The errors between the modal detection results and the vibration detection results (0.8%–5.8%) under speed slip are smaller than the traditional cases (23.7%–210%), which also verifies the correctness of the above conclusions.

Originality/value

In this paper, the method of simulation and experiment is used to prove that the first-order velocity slip model is more suitable to predict the dynamic response of the aerostatic slider than the condition without slip.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-02-2020-0059/
Social audit, accountability and accounting – an Indian perspective
Authors: Chawla Akhila
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this case study is to investigate the role of a governmental social audit (SA) practice in enabling emancipation, and changing patterns in the balance of power, position and understandings between dominant micro actors and disenfranchised rural citizens.

Design/methodology/approach

Enlisting Bourdieu's practice theory concepts of field, habitus, capitals and symbolic violence, the case study is informed by semi-structured interviews at central, state, district, block and village levels as well field observations and secondary data. This study is a part of a larger critical accounting research project conducted in India over four months, covering eight annual implementation cycles.

Findings

The study demonstrates that despite entrenched hegemonic micro forces and public sector corruption, SA's accounting and accountability practices have altered the rules of the game in this field. This emancipatory perspective has redefined deep-seated, generational patterns of power relations and domination, impacting the distribution of capitals and habitus in the daily life of rural citizens.

Research limitations/implications

This study provides an alternative perspective to understanding governmental SA formats in developing nation contexts at the micro level. In line with Celerier and Botey's (2015) focus on inclusionary and democratic participation, this study challenges the dominant perspective of accounting as strengthening power asymmetries and focuses on its potential as an emancipatory agent.

Originality/value

The paper provides a site of effective implementation of a participative accountability practice in developing nation contexts that offer suggestions to states, countries and policy-makers. This paper also adds to critical accounting literature in the field of SA and social services at a micro level. Drawing upon Bourdieu in this underexplored field, it shines a light on relational elements of change through accounting and accountability practices for researchers and practitioners.
Does capital adequacy ratio influence risk-taking behaviour of conventional and Islamic banks differently? Empirical evidence from dual banking system of Malaysia
Authors: Harkati Rafik , Alhabshi Syed Musa , Kassim Salina
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of capital adequacy ratio (CAR) prescribed in Basel III on the risk-taking behaviour of Islamic and conventional commercial banks in Malaysia. It also investigates the claim that the risk-taking behaviour of Islamic banks (IBs) and conventional banks (CBs) managers is identically influenced by CAR.

Design/methodology/approach

Secondary data for all CBs operating in the Malaysian banking sector are gathered from FitchConnect database for the 2011–2017 period. Both dynamic ordinary least squares and generalised method of moments techniques are used to estimate a panel data of 43 commercial banks, namely, 17 IBs and 26 CBs.

Findings

The findings of this study lend support to the favourable influence of CAR set in Basel III accord on risk-taking behaviour of both types of banks. CBs appeared to be remarkably better off in terms of capital buffers. Evidence is established on the identicality of the risk-taking behaviour of IBs and CBs managers under CAR influence.

Practical implications

Even though a high CAR is observed to hamper risk-taking of banks, the findings may serve as a signal to regulators to be mindful of the implications of holding a high CAR. Similarly, managers may capitalise on the findings in terms of strategising for efficient use of the considerable capital buffers. Shareholders are also concerned about managers’ use of the considerable capital buffers.

Originality/value

This study is among a few studies that endeavoured to provide empirical evidence on the claim that IBs mimic the conduct of CBs in light of the influence of CAR prescribed in Basel III on risk-taking behaviour, particularly banks operating within the same banking environment.
Exploring the scope for Normalisation Process Theory to help evaluate and understand the processes involved when scaling up integrated models of care: a case study of the scaling up of the Gnosall memory service
Authors: Clark Michael , Jolley David , Benbow Susan Mary , Greaves Nicola , Greaves Ian
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The scaling up of promising, innovative integration projects presents challenges to social and health care systems. Evidence that a new service provides (cost) effective care in a (pilot) locality can often leave us some way from understanding how the innovation worked and what was crucial about the context to achieve the goals evidenced when applied to other localities. Even unpacking the “black box” of the innovation can still leave gaps in understanding with regard to scaling it up. Theory-led approaches are increasingly proposed as a means of helping to address this knowledge gap in understanding implementation. Our particular interest here is exploring the potential use of theory to help with understanding scaling up integration models across sites. The theory under consideration is Normalisation Process Theory (NPT).

Design/methodology/approach

The article draws on a natural experiment providing a range of data from two sites working to scale up a well-thought-of, innovative integrated, primary care-based dementia service to other primary care sites. This provided an opportunity to use NPT as a means of framing understanding to explore what the theory adds to considering issues contributing to the success or failure of such a scaling up project.

Findings

NPT offers a framework to potentially develop greater consistency in understanding the roll out of models of integrated care. The knowledge gained here and through further application of NPT could be applied to inform evaluation and planning of scaling-up programmes in the future.

Research limitations/implications

The research was limited in the data collected from the case study; nevertheless, in the context of an exploration of the use of the theory, the observations provided a practical context in which to begin to examine the usefulness of NPT prior to embarking on its use in more expensive, larger-scale studies.

Practical implications

NPT provides a promising framework to better understand the detail of integrated service models from the point of view of what may contribute to their successful scaling up.

Social implications

NPT potentially provides a helpful framework to understand and manage efforts to have new integrated service models more widely adopted in practice and to help ensure that models which are effective in the small scale develop effectively when scaled up.

Originality/value

This paper examines the use of NPT as a theory to guide understanding of scaling up promising innovative integration service models.
Customer delight during a crisis: understanding delight through the lens of transformative service research
Authors: Barnes Donald C. , Mesmer-Magnus Jessica , Scribner Lisa L. , Krallman Alexandra , Guidice Rebecca M.
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The unprecedented dynamics of the COVID-19 pandemic has forced firms to re-envision the customer experience and find new ways to ensure positive service encounters. This context has underscored the reality that drivers of customer delight in a “traditional” context are not the same in a crisis context. While research has tended to identify hedonic need fulfillment as key to customer well-being and, ultimately, to invoking customer delight, the majority of studies were conducted in inherently positive contexts, which may limit generalizability to more challenging contexts. Through the combined lens of transformative service research (TSR) and psychological theory on hedonic and eudaimonic human needs, we evaluate the extent to which need fulfillment is the root of customer well-being and that meeting well-being needs ultimately promotes delight. We argue that in crisis contexts, the salience of needs shifts from hedonic to eudaimonic and the extent to which service experiences fulfill eudaimonic needs determines the experience and meaning of delight.

Design/methodology/approach

Utilizing the critical incident technique, this research surveyed 240 respondents who were asked to explain in detail a time they experienced customer delight during the COVID-19 pandemic. We analyzed their responses according to whether these incidents reflected the salience of hedonic versus eudaimonic need fulfillment.

Findings

The results support the notion that the salience of eudaimonic needs become more pronounced during times of crisis and that service providers are more likely to elicit perceptions of delight when they leverage meeting eudaimonic needs over the hedonic needs that are typically emphasized in traditional service encounters.

Originality/value

We discuss the implications of these findings for integrating the TSR and customer delight literatures to better understand how service experiences that meet salient needs produce customer well-being and delight. Ultimately, we find customer delight can benefit well-being across individual, collective and societal levels.
Hosting the Olympics: why are we always getting the cost wrong?
Authors: Khraiche Maroula , Alakshendra Abhinav
Published: August 2020

Purpose

In the last 50 years, every Olympics has experienced a major cost overrun. This paper explores the reasons for this cost underestimation and looks into the occurrence of the winner's curse. We also forecast the spending pattern of future host cities. Finally, we discuss the role of the International Olympic Committee in making the Olympic Games more efficient and sustainable.

Design/methodology/approach

The review of literature on the topic of constant cost overrun in the Olympic Games is surprisingly very thin. We comprehensively review the existing literature to understand the scholarship in this area. This paper also produces future cost trends for the host cities.

Findings

We argue that cost underestimation is resulting from the outdated bid process which encourages spectacle over efficiency. A no-bid environment is more efficient and allows the host city to negotiate effectively with the International Olympic Committee. The Los Angeles Games of 1984 was profitable and has shown reusing the infrastructure can save a lot of money which could help make the Olympic Games economically sustainable.

Originality/value

This paper adds to the existing knowledge on the cost overrun aspect of Olympics financing. We also forecast the cost trends of hosting future Olympics.
Duration of immunotherapy in patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma with negative driver genes: case report and literature review
Authors: Shan Qinge , Wang Haiyong , Han Xiao , Guo Jun , Wang Zhehai
Published: August 2020

Here, we report two cases of advanced non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in patients with negative driver genes who received ICI treatment for less than two years but continued to benefit from their administration after drug withdrawal. The first patient was diagnosed with left lung adenocarcinoma, cT1cN3M1c, stage IVb, and after four cycles achieved a completed response (CR). After 10 cycles of camrelizumab treatment, immunotherapy was discontinued because of hepatotoxicity. When the drug was discontinued, the curative effect was evaluated as CR. At the last follow‐up, the drug withdrawal time had been more than 20 months, and the response was maintained at CR, with PFS of over 30 months. In the second case, the patient was diagnosed with left lung adenocarcinoma, cT1N3M1c, stage IVb. The patient was treated with sintilimab, and due to cardiac and skin toxicity, the patient withdrew from the trial after five cycles of immunotherapy. After drug withdrawal, the curative effect of the patients was maintained at PR. At the last follow‐up, the drug withdrawal time was more than three months, and the curative effect was evaluated as PR. The PFS was more than nine months. In conclusion, whether the drug can be discontinued in advance after immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy has been effective remains a concern, and at present there is no final conclusion in the medical profession. However, the results of this study indicate that early withdrawal of immunotherapy due to adverse reactions might also benefit patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma with negative driver genes who achieve an early response to immunotherapy.
Efficacy and safety of S‐1 monotherapy in previously treated elderly patients (aged ≥75 years) with non‐small cell lung cancer: A retrospective analysis
Authors: Imai Hisao , Minemura Hiroyuki , Kishikawa Takayuki , Yamada Yutaka , Suzuki Kensuke , Umeda Yukihiro , Wasamoto Satoshi , Kasahara Norimitsu , Ishihara Shinichi , Yamaguchi Ou , Naruse Ichiro , Uchino Junji , Mori Keita , Kanazawa Kenya , Shibata Yoko , Kasai Takashi , Kaburagi Takayuki , Kaira Kyoichi , Minato Koichi
Published: August 2020

Background

S‐1 monotherapy is effective and feasible for previously treated patients with advanced non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, it is not clear whether its effectiveness and tolerability in elderly patients are equivalent to those in younger patients. Hence, this study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and feasibility of S‐1 monotherapy in elderly patients with NSCLC who had previously received other treatments.

Methods

We included 96 elderly patients (aged ≥75 years) with advanced NSCLC treated with S‐1 alone as a subsequent‐line treatment at 12 medical facilities between January 2005 and March 2018 in this study. The baseline characteristics of the patients, response to S‐1 monotherapy, and adverse events (AEs) were investigated, retrospectively.

Results

A total of 68 male and 28 female patients (median age, 78 [range: 75–86] years) were analyzed. In elderly patients who were treated with S‐1 monotherapy as a subsequent‐line treatment, the objective response rate, disease control rate, median progression‐free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS) were 8.3%, 43.8%, 3.4 months, and 9.6 months, respectively. Observed AEs included anorexia, anemia, nausea, fatigue, reduced platelet count, and skin hyperpigmentation. Treatment‐related death was observed in one patient because of pneumonitis. In patients who experienced no progressive disease, subsequent‐line S‐1 alone was associated with longer PFS and OS.

Conclusions

S‐1 monotherapy is effective and feasible as a subsequent‐line treatment in elderly patients who were previously treated for NSCLC, and it produces results. S‐1 monotherapy could be one of the treatment choices for elderly patients with previously treated NSCLC.
Airway management guidance for the endemic phase of COVID‐19
Authors: Cook T. M. , McGuire B. , Mushambi M. , Misra U. , Carey C. , Lucas N. , O’Sullivan E. , Harrop‐Griffiths W.
Published: August 2020

It is now apparent that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) will remain endemic for some time. Improved therapeutics and a vaccine may shorten this period, but both are far from certain. Plans must be put in place on the assumption that the virus and its disease will continue to affect the care of patients and the safety of staff. This will impact particularly on airway management due to the inherent risk to staff during such procedures. Research is needed to clarify the nature and risk of respiratory aerosol‐generating procedures. Improved knowledge of the dynamics of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and immunity is also required. In the meantime, we describe the current status of airway management during the endemic phase of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Some controversies remain unresolved, but the safety of patients and staff remains paramount. Current evidence does not support or necessitate dramatic changes to choices for anaesthetic airway management. Theatre efficiency and training issues are a challenge that must be addressed, and new information may enable this.
Can Playfulness be Stimulated? A Randomised Placebo‐Controlled Online Playfulness Intervention Study on Effects on Trait Playfulness, Well‐Being, and Depression
Authors: Proyer René T. , Gander Fabian , Brauer Kay , Chick Garry
Published: August 2020

Background

While there are numerous applications of play‐based interventions, there is little research on playfulness‐based interventions. We applied interventions that aim at stimulating playfulness and test effects on happiness and depressive symptoms.

Method

In a randomised placebo‐controlled online intervention,N = 533 participants were assigned to one of three 1‐week playfulness conditions (i.e. three playful things, using playfulness in a new way, and counting playfulness) or a placebo condition. Participants reported on global playfulness, facets of playfulness, well‐being, and depression at pretest, posttest, and at follow‐ups after 2, 4, and 12 weeks.

Results

All interventions increased expressions in all facets of playfulness, had short‐term effects on well‐being, and ameliorated depression.

Conclusion

Overall, findings suggest that playfulness can be stimulated by short self‐administered interventions.
Understanding the essential components and experiences of youth with autism spectrum disorders in peer mentorship programmes during the transition to adulthood: A qualitative meta‐ethnography
Authors: Nguyen Linda , Jack Susan , Ketelaar Marjolijn , Di Rezze Briano , Soper Alice Kelen , Gorter Jan Willem
Published: August 2020

Youth with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often require additional supports during the period of transition to from high school to post‐secondary education or career paths. Peer mentorship (PM) programmes create opportunities to support youth with ASD in identifying their personal, academic and career goals after graduating from high school; however, there is limited insight about the components of these programmes that are valued by both participants and peer mentors and that are perceived to contribute to the overall success of a programme in achieving their goals. Our objective was to identify, describe and synthesize the components of PM programmes valued by youth with ASD and their peer mentors, as well as to document their experiences in these transitional support services. A meta‐ethnography was conducted to synthesize qualitative and mixed methods studies of PM programmes for youth with ASD. A systematic search of seven databases yielded 142 nonduplicate articles. Data analysis and synthesis involved (1) extraction of raw data; (2) extraction of study authors' interpretations, followed by inductive coding; (3) synthesis of key themes and (4) schematic diagram development to illustrate the relationship of themes. Ten studies of PM programmes from Canada (2), United States (4), Australia (3) and United Kingdom (1) were included. Extracted data reflected experiences of 131 mentees and 82 mentors. The essential programme components identified were (1) mentorship, (2) skill building, (3) peer group and (4) facilitating transition. PM characterized by clear communication and connection between mentors and mentees was valuable to the success of the programme. Peer mentors played an essential role to facilitate the positive experiences that mentees had with programme components, including interactions with peer groups. Successful PM programmes created a safe environment for mentees to practice skills and helped mentees gain confidence to expand their roles to take leadership in their learning.
Extracurricular Activities and Chinese Children’s School Readiness: Who Benefits More?
Authors: Ren Lixin , Chen Jianbao , Li Xuan , Wu Huiping , Fan Jieqiong , Li Lin
Published: August 2020

Organized extracurricular activities (EAs) are prevalent among Chinese preschoolers, yet their role in children’s development is poorly understood. This study investigated the relations between EA participation and Chinese preschoolers’ school readiness (N = 343; Mage = 55.14 months) among a predominantly middle‐class sample. EA breadth had positive linear relations with children’s early math and social skills, while attendance intensity demonstrated nonlinear associations, partially supporting the overscheduling hypothesis. EA breadth had stronger associations with early reading and math skills among lower socioeconomic status children, as well as greater benefits for math skills in children with less exposure to home learning activities, indicating a compensatory role of EAs. The findings highlight the interplay between EA and family contexts in relation to child development.
Use of the nucleotide diversity in COI mitochondrial gene as an early diagnostic of conservation status of animal species
Authors: Petit‐Marty Natalia , Vázquez‐Luis Maite , Hendriks Iris E.
Published: August 2020

Species assessed as threatened by the International Union of Conservation of Nature (IUCN) show evidence of declining population sizes. Genetic diversity is lost by this decline, which reduces the adaptive potential of the species and increases its extinction risk in a changing environment. In this study, we collected an extensive dataset of nucleotide diversities in the COI (Cytochrome C Oxidase subunit I) mitochondrial gene for 4,363 animal species assessed by IUCN and found significantly reduced levels of diversity in threatened species of long‐lived animal classes. Then, we built up a comparative frame by acquiring the 95% confidence interval (CI) of mean values of COI nucleotide diversity in bootstrapped samples of nonthreatened species. Finally, we tested the comparative frame with data from the endangered bivalve species, Pinna nobilis. We conclude that nucleotide diversity in COI is a good proxy for a first evaluation of the conservation status of species populations, where previous knowledge is lacking and census is difficult to perform .
Furosemide as a factor to deteriorate therapeutic efficacy of rifaximin in patients with decompensated cirrhosis
Authors: Uchida Yoshihito , Tsuji Shohei , Uemura Hayato , Kouyama Jun‐ichi , Naiki Kayoko , Sugawara Kayoko , Nakao Masamitsu , Inao Mie , Nakayama Nobuaki , Imai Yukinori , Tomiya Tomoaki , Mochida Satoshi
Published: August 2020

Aim

To optimize the therapeutic strategy for cirrhotic patients manifesting hepatic encephalopathy, factors affecting the outcome of patients receiving rifaximin were evaluated.

Methods

The subjects were 95 patients receiving rifaximin. Serum ammonia levels were measured serially during rifaximin treatment. Factors associated with long‐term outcomes and cumulative survival rates were evaluated.

Results

Serum ammonia levels were decreased at 4 weeks after rifaximin treatment compared to the levels at baseline even in patients receiving rifaximin as an add‐on therapy with lactitol hydrate (P < 0.001) and reduction values were negatively correlated with the maximal diameter of portosystemic shunts (r = −0.275, P = 0.009). Overt encephalopathy occurred in 37 patients (38.9%) during rifaximin treatment, and the hazard function analysis identified 90 days as a high‐risk term for developing the first‐time overt encephalopathy. Thus, the long‐term outcome was judged as favorable in 77 patients (81.1%) in whom overt encephalopathy was absent for at least 90 days during rifaximin initiation. A multivariate analysis revealed that furosemide, especially at daily doses of ≥20 mg both at baseline and during rifaximin treatment, was a significant factor associated with unfavorable outcome (P = 0.009 and P = 0.022, respectively) as well as occurrence and recurrence of overt encephalopathy (P = 0.012). Moreover, furosemide treatment significantly deteriorated the cumulative survival rate of patients receiving rifaximin (P = 0.026).

Conclusion

Furosemide contributed to the deteriorated outcome of patients receiving rifaximin. Consequently, rifaximin should be given before increasing the furosemide dose, and the furosemide dose should not be increased during rifaximin treatment.
Stevens‐Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis associated with the use of macrolide antibiotics: a review of published cases
Authors: Pejčić Ana V.
Published: August 2020

Macrolides are one of the most commonly prescribed antibiotics. In several studies, their use was associated with the occurrence of Stevens‐Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN). This review aimed to explore and summarize available cases of SJS/TEN suspected to be associated with the use of macrolide antibiotics reported in the literature. Electronic searches were conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, and Serbian Citation Index (SCIndeks). Twenty‐five publications describing a total of 27 patients were included. Cases of SJS/TEN which satisfied inclusion criteria were found for azithromycin (n = 11), clarithromycin (n = 7), erythromycin (n = 5), roxithromycin (n = 2), and telithromycin (n = 2). The age of the patients ranged from 2 to 77 years (median: 29 years). There were 14 female (51.9%) and 13 male (48.1%) patients. SJS was diagnosed in 16 patients (59.3%), TEN in 10 patients (37.0%), and SJS/TEN overlap in one patient (3.7%). Time to onset of the first symptoms ranged from 1 to 14 days (median: 3 days). All patients received some form of supportive and symptomatic care. Systemic corticosteroids were reported to be administered in 12 patients (44.4%) and intravenous immunoglobulin in five patients (18.5%). Three patients (11.1%) died. Considering that SJS/TEN is a severe and potentially life‐threatening reaction, physicians should be aware that they could be adverse effects of macrolide antibiotics and keep in mind that prompt recognition of SJS/TEN and discontinuation of the culprit drug in combination with supportive care is essential.
Randomized controlled trial on the effectiveness of web‐based Genomics Nursing Education Intervention for undergraduate nursing students: a study protocol
Authors: Dumo Anndra Margareth , Laing Bobbi , Lim Anecita Gigi , Palaganas Erlinda , Abad Peter James , Valdehueza Ofelia , Palovaara Marjo , Saunders Hannele , Estola Matti , Mandysova Petra , Maguire Jane , Ward Linda D. , Carlberg Carsten , Vehviläinen‐Julkunen Katri
Published: August 2020

Aim

To describe a randomized controlled trial protocol that will evaluate the effectiveness of two web‐based genomic nursing education interventions.

Background

Preparing future nurses to be competent in genetic and genomic concepts is fundamental to ensure appropriate clinical application. However, genetics–genomics concepts are still new in the field of nursing. Little is known about what type and kind of web‐based nursing education is effective in improving the knowledge of nursing students. To address these knowledge gaps, a web‐based ‘Genomic Nursing Education Intervention’ will be developed and compared with an existing online education programme.

Design

A randomized controlled trial of two groups with pre‐test and repeated posttesting.

Methods

The Genomic Nursing Concept Inventory, a validated tool, will be used to assess the genetics–genomics knowledge of nursing students. Participants will be randomly allocated to either a control or an intervention group. The control group will receive the standard web‐based nursing education, while the intervention group will receive a newly developed web‐based education intervention. Outcome measures include the students’ knowledge level of nursing genetics–genomics concepts. Participants will be retested at 3 and 6 months.

Conclusion

Current evidence shows that ensuring nurses have adequate education in genetic–genomic concepts is challenging. This study will demonstrate which of two web‐based nursing education methods is more effective in teaching genetic–genomic concepts. This research project will better prepare the nursing profession in their careers for the emerging advance technologies in genetics–genomics and personalized health care.

Impact

Current evidence shows major challenges in ensuring that nurses have adequate education in genetics–genomics concepts. Less is known about what approaches to web‐based education are effective to improve the knowledge gaps of nursing students in genetics–genomics concepts. This study will determine which type of web‐based nursing education is effective in improving the genetics–genomics knowledge of nursing students. This research project will help better prepare nurses in dealing with advances in genetics–genomics in their careers.

Trial registration: This study is registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (ID number NCT03963687) https://clinicaltrials.gov/show/NCT03963687
Describing self‐care and its associated variables in ostomy patients
Authors: Giordano Vittoria , Nicolotti Matilde , Corvese Francesco , Vellone Ercole , Alvaro Rosaria , Villa Giulia
Published: August 2020

Aims

To describe self‐care in ostomy patients, to identify socio‐demographic and clinical variables associated with self‐care and to identify the association between self‐care self‐efficacy and self‐care over and above the variables associated with self‐care.

Design

Longitudinal and multicentre study. Data were collected between February 2017‐May 2018.

Methods

In this study, 523 ostomy patients were enrolled at baseline (T0) and 362 were followed‐up after 6 months (T1). The Ostomy Self‐Care Index was used to measure self‐care maintenance, monitoring, management, and self‐efficacy. Correlations between self‐care dimensions and patient socio‐demographic and clinical characteristics were performed with Pearson's or Spearman's correlations. Three separate two‐step hierarchical regression analyses were performed to identify variables associated with self‐care maintenance, monitoring, and management.

Results

Participants’ mean age was 69 years (SD 12.4); 63.9% were male and most had enterostomies (38.8% colostomies, 29.3% ileostomies) and permanent ostomies (72.5%). Patients had adequate self‐care maintenance and monitoring at T0 and T1, while they had lower self‐care management and self‐efficacy at baseline. Significant variables associated with better self‐care maintenance and self‐care monitoring were female gender, more information received during hospitalization and better autonomy in stoma management, while a better level of education was an additional variable associated with self‐care monitoring. Self‐care self‐efficacy produced a significant increase in the explained variance of self‐care maintenance and self‐care monitoring. None of the selected variables were significantly associated with self‐care management.

Conclusion

Middle‐high levels of self‐care maintenance, monitoring, management, and self‐efficacy were found. The variables associated with ostomy self‐care and the role of self‐care self‐efficacy identified in this study can help in developing tailored nursing interventions.

Impact

This study found specific variables associated with ostomy self‐care which could contribute to guiding future interventions aimed at improving self‐care in ostomy patients.
Brood parasitism, provisioning rates and breeding phenology of male and female magpie hosts
Authors: Precioso Marta , Molina‐Morales Mercedes , Sánchez‐Tójar Alfredo , Avilés Jesús M. , Martínez Juan G.
Published: August 2020

Parental care is a costly behaviour that raises the prospects of offspring survival. In species with biparental care these costs are shared by both parents, although there may be a conflict regarding the relative investment of each sex. Avian brood parasites leave all the costs of rearing offspring to their hosts. The magnitude of these costs and their consequences on the relative role of both sexes in parental care and future reproduction remain mostly unknown. Here, we investigate whether provisioning rate of nestlings by magpie hostsPica picadiffers between broods parasitized by the great spotted cuckooClamator glandariusand non‐parasitized broods, and whether the relative contribution of each sex to provisioning is affected by parasitism. Furthermore, we explore the effect of parasitism on magpie's future reproduction. We found that provisioning rate was similar in parasitized and non‐parasitized broods, and that the relative contribution of males and females was also similar, irrespectively of the parasitism status. However, rearing parasitic offspring seems to have a negative long‐term effect on magpie's breeding phenology in the following breeding season. Our results suggest that, although brood parasitism by great spotted cuckoos does not seem to influence the relative contribution of both sexes to parental care, it may entail long‐term extra costs in terms of breeding delay for magpies.