bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adapting business models in buyer-seller relationships: paradoxes in the fast fashion supply chain
Authors: Guercini Simone , Runfola Andrea
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to deal with the issue of business model change in industrial markets. It considers the fast-fashion supply chain by addressing the following research questions: What are the paths of change of the supplier’s business model to match the business model of fast fashion customers? How can a supplier’s business model be adapted to customer’s requirements in these paths of change?

Design/methodology/approach

Empirically, the paper presents a multiple case study of 10 semi-finished textile suppliers, carried out through a long-term research programme in the Italian textile industrial district of Prato.

Findings

The multiple-case study shows some key drivers of change in the suppliers’ business models. Three main paths emerged from the interactions with fast fashion clients. Paradoxes in the supplier’s business model changes are identified and discussed.

Research limitations/implications

The paper proposes implications for suppliers interacting with fast fashion clients and discusses how the adaptation of business models may be interpreted. This study points out how matching the business model of the customers does not call for alignment of similar features.

Originality/value

The paper deals with an understudied topic within the literature: business models change in business to business markets, taking into consideration the perspective of the supplier. It considers buyers-seller relationships in industrial supply chains as being part of a chain of business models and the need for the supplier’s business model to adapt and match one of the clients. The paper proposes two potential interpretations of such adaptation.
Two decades of the Journal of Intellectual Capital: a bibliometric overview and an agenda for future research
Authors: Dabić Marina , Vlačić Božidar , Scuotto Veronica , Warkentin Merrill
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The Journal of Intellectual Capital (JIC) is one of the leading academic journals in the field of business and management, with an impact factor of 3.744, according to Journal Citation Reports from Clarivate Analytics, 2019. This study reports the results of a content analysis of the JIC articles that have been published since the journal was founded in 2000, in order to highlight its significant contribution and identify potential future research avenues within the business and management field.

Design/methodology/approach

Scopus database, complemented by the Web of Science (WOS) Core Collection, was used. Furthermore, this study graphically maps over 20 years' worth of bibliographic material, using the visualization of similarities (VOS) to present an overview of the journal and identify future research avenues.

Findings

The paper provides an overview of a total of 700 articles and editorial notes, authored by leading authors from various universities, as well as collating the research themes explored during the 20 year period between 2000 and 2019. The prestigious positioning of this journal is evidenced both through the increasing number of citations received from other highly regarded journals and through its impact upon the establishment of new streams of research.

Practical implications

By applying a bibliometric analysis, this paper offers an overview of past and current themes on intellectual capital (IC).

Originality/value

This article delivers an in-depth and rigorous analysis of the fields and research streams interrogated by the JIC over the last 20 years and offers potential topics for future research, which could stimulate authors and inspire advancements in research for years to come.
Do well-reputed companies carry out higher quality social reporting? An empirical approach
Authors: Castilla-Polo Francisca , Ruiz-Rodríguez María Del Consuelo
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this research objective was to analyse social reporting within MERCO Business companies both from the point of view of the quantity of information disclosed and the references about their quality. This approach constitutes a novelty with respect to previous literature on the subject.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper assesses how social reporting is being carried out by the companies included in the MERCO Corporate Reputation Business Monitor, MERCO Business, during the period 2014–2016. The methodological design include the construction of a weighted index based on two unweighted indexes related to the quantity revealed and the quality detected. In addition, this study integrates intellectual capital and social responsibility approaches in order to deep into these voluntary disclosures.

Findings

While social reporting is considerable from a quantitative point of view within MERCO Business companies, they do not reach very high levels of quality, which is good to counteract the final value of the quantity–quality index that the authors' propose.

Research limitations/implications

In MERCO Business companies, quantity is not a proxy for quality within social reporting. In this sense, only considering both dimensions it will be possible to assess these disclosures in a more complete way.

Practical implications

This study allows a more accurate and comparable view of social reporting than those studies that only focus on how much information is disclosed. Besides, it involves an important advance in the identification of the relative quality of social reporting, opening a new line of research that will be key to comparing this type of disclosures in a more homogeneous way. Likewise, the results can be applied in future studies in the intellectual capital field given the complementarity between both types of disclosures.

Social implications

Likewise, these results will be of interest for future actions aimed at regulating the improvement of the quality of social reporting in the hands of managers, investors and regulators.

Originality/value

The authors have tested the value of quality in social reporting using a weighted index amongst the most reputable companies in the Spanish scenario. These disclosures have been compared with and without the use of it in order to deduce its value to obtain valid conclusions about social reporting.
Country-of-origin image; SMEs and emerging economies – evidence from a case study of manufacturing SMEs from Turkey
Authors: Arghashi Vahideh , Okumuş Abdullah
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs’) internationalization process in emerging Islamic markets and to introduce the factors affecting SMEs’ entry modes into a foreign country with emphasis on the role of country-of-origin image (COI) in these processes.

Design/methodology/approach

This study provides a case study to investigate the internationalization experiences of one successful SMEs in Turkey. First, this paper conducted face-to-face and semi-structured interviews with the company’s senior executives through open-ended questions. Second, this paper considered the company documentation and researchers’ observations. Finally, this paper did several classifications of the data, analyzed data by the Nvivo 10 software and extracted the results.

Findings

The results demonstrated that SMEs’ internationalization process designed in three stages by four key structures contained decision-making for entering and target market selection (pre-entry stage), entry mode and factors affecting it (entry-stage), designing and using control mechanisms (post-entry stage). Findings also showed that information and knowledge level, the risk level in a foreign country, the control level and supply of resources in the international market, the level of trust in knowledge, political and economic structures that governing in a foreign country are important factors influencing SMEs’ entry strategies. In particular, the results revealed that the COI significantly determines the impact rate of the factors influencing the decision to enter the international market.

Research limitations/implications

The most important limitation of this research is the use of a case study to investigate the subject. Findings showed COI has a significant impact on SMEs’ internationalization processes and especially on adopting a suitable entry strategy. Therefore, SMEs should pay more attention to the role of COI in the internationalization process.

Originality/value

This case study provides new empirical insight into the SMEs’ internationalization processes in the emerging Islamic economy. Findings introduce the factors that influence the strategy of SMEs entering foreign markets and provide a new research model for future studies.
Option effect of land transfer by city governments: a case study of Hangzhou
Authors: Zhang Ling , Zheng Minghui , Zhang Zheyan
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to study the impact of land options on the land transfer behaviour of Chinese city governments.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the institutional environment of Hangzhou, China, the option pricing model is used to measure the option value of the trading plots. The effect of the option value on the land transfer price and the timing of transfers are estimated respectively, using the hedonic price model and the survival analysis models.

Findings

The results show that the option value has a significant explanation on land price and timing of land transfers. Under the effect of option value, the positive impact of fiscal pressure on the possibility of land transfer weakens. From the perspective of the annual option premium rate, the option premium is closely related to the real estate cycle. Option premiums are higher during booms but lower during recessions and in new urban areas.

Practical implications

By revealing the distinction of land option premiums in different places and times, this paper provides a reference for city governments seeking a balance between real estate regulation and obtaining more land revenue.

Originality/value

By introducing policy variables that reflect the degree of tightness of real estate regulation and indicators of local government financial pressure, the paper discusses the impact of options on the transfer behaviour of local governments in different situations.
Examining the CSR strategy of MNCs in Bangladesh
Authors: Roy Taposh Kumar , Al-Abdin Ahmed , Quazi Ali
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The paper aims to explore and analyze how multinational companies (MNCs) in Bangladesh define corporate social responsibility (CSR) and how CSR is used by these companies as a strategic tool to improve business and social performances.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors choose a qualitative case study approach for this study, using multiple semi-structured interviews with 15 CSR managers and secondary data from websites and annual reports. Both primary and secondary data were collected from ten leading MNCs that operate in Bangladesh.

Findings

The findings indicate that most of the MNCs in Bangladesh are moving toward strategic CSR and away from the conventional altruistic (philanthropic) CSR. It also appears that stakeholder prioritization and one-way communication are key for managing stakeholders.

Research limitations/implications

The most unavoidable limitation of this research lies in sample selection. A total of ten companies were selected because of lack of accessibility to additional MNCs. To overcome this limitation and increase the credibility of findings, the authors triangulate interview and secondary data from annual reports and websites.

Practical implications

The findings indicate that MNCs are increasingly recognizing the importance of using their core competencies to generate social benefits. The idea of adopting strategic CSR is predominantly steered by business benefits, which also provide the necessary resources for social and environmental activities

Social implications

The findings suggest that the shift from philanthropy to strategic postures leads to creating and fostering social benefits such as developing an entrepreneurial spirit and empowering women.

Originality/value

MNCs operating in Bangladesh are gradually departing from philanthropy and moving toward strategic CSR by aligning business strategies with CSR. Transition from philanthropy to strategic CSR also reflects on MNCs’ CSR definitions, which include various dimensions such as social, stakeholders and sustainability, except philanthropy. In Bangladesh, where CSR was previously viewed as philanthropic activity, the findings make important contributions to the extant literature, particularly international CSR strategic literature, and can be useful for future research in other developing countries.
How business is adapting to COVID-19: Executive insights reveal post-pandemic opportunities
Authors: Anderson Cindy , Bieck Christian , Marshall Anthony
Published: December 2020

Purpose

IBM Institute for Business Value research suggests five key discoveries for the post-pandemic business landscape offering new perspectives on digital transformation, the future of work, transparency and sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

The data referenced in this report were collected from a number of surveys: The IBM Institute for Business Value, in collaboration with Oxford Economics, surveyed 3,450 executives in 20 industries and 22 countries from April to June 2020. The IBM Institute for Business Value, again in collaboration with Oxford Economics, conducted in July and August 2020 an Executive Pulse survey of 400 CEOs, CIO/CTOs, COOs and Chief Transformation Officers in the US across 20 industries. The IBM Institute for Business Value has fielded a survey instrument with Survey Monkey since April 2020 with more than 50,000 adult respondents across eight countries.

Findings

Analysis confirms that the business competencies that account for the largest part of an organization’s expected growth are those centered on employees and customers.

Practical implications

The survey data also point to greater reliance on platform business models and partner networks.

Originality/value

The research highlights a gaping chasm between what executives think they are offering their employees and how those employees feel.
Early add‐on administration of mepolizumab and intravenous immunoglobulin effective in treating eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis
Authors: Ikeda Takaharu , Komatsu Toshiro , Yokoyama Kae , Takahashi Kazuo , Kawakami Tamihiro
Published: December 2020

Treatment of eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) remains a challenge because currently available therapies, corticosteroids and immunomodulators, do not always control symptoms and are often associated with significant morbidity and relapse. Mepolizumab has been demonstrated to be an effective add‐on therapy with steroid‐sparing effect in cases of relapsing or refractory EGPA. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy is effective against mononeuritis multiplex or heart failure in patients with EGPA who do not respond to corticosteroid‐cyclophosphamide treatment. We present two cases of EGPA in which earlier add‐on administration of adjunct mepolizumab and IVIG led to significant improvement in EGPA symptoms and prevention of flare‐up of the disease. We suggested that earlier add‐on combination administration of IVIG and mepolizumab might be a useful adjunct treatment to induce clinical remission of EGPA and improve the rate of remission, decrease relapse rate, and allow for reduced glucocorticoid use without any serious adverse drug effects.
Degos‐like lesions as a cutaneous manifestation of cytomegalovirus infection: A rare and serious complication in a patient with drug‐induced hypersensitivity syndrome
Authors: Chieosilapatham Panjit , Prinyaroj Nayanunt , Jamjanya Sirinda , Kiratikanon Salin , Thinrungroj Nithi , Kaewpoowat Quanhathai , Kongkarnka Sarawut , Mahanupab Pongsak , Tovanabutra Napatra , Chiewchanvit Siri , Chuamanochan Mati
Published: December 2020

Cytomegalovirus causes a myriad of clinical features, potentially affecting any organ system, significantly increasing morbidity and even mortality. Vascular endothelial cell infection by cytomegalovirus has been implicated in the development of vasculopathy, possibly accounting for the clinical association between cytomegalovirus and vascular thrombosis. In contrast with visceral organ involvement, the cutaneous manifestations of cytomegalovirus are variable and rarely described. Malignant atrophic papulosis, commonly known as Degos disease, is an unusual small vessel arteriopathy with a pathognomonic clinical appearance of atrophic porcelain‐white central papules surrounded by telangiectatic erythema. As with the arterial occlusive process, Degos disease may be idiopathic or secondary to autoimmune disorders or viral infection. All in all, cytomegalovirus‐related Degos‐like presentation has never been described. This report describes a case in which disseminated cytomegalovirus disease developed 4 weeks after the onset of drug‐induced hypersensitivity syndrome with prominent Degos‐like skin lesions. Our case highlights a rare example of Degos‐like lesions occurring due to cytomegalovirus disease and emphasizes the importance of early recognition of the characteristic cutaneous eruption as a diagnostic clue leading to the prompt management of this life‐threatening infection.
One door closes, another opens: when nodulation impairment with natural hosts extends rhizobial host‐range
Authors: Jiménez‐Guerrero Irene , Moreno‐De Castro Natalia , Pérez‐Montaño Francisco
Published: December 2020

The rhizobium‐legume symbiosis is the best‐understood plant–microbe association. The high degree of specificity observed in this relationship is supported by a complex exchange of signals between the two components of the symbiosis. Findings reported in last years indicate that multiple molecular mechanisms, such as the production of a particular set of nodulation factors at a very specific concentration or a suitable arsenal of effectors secreted through the type III secretion system, have been adjusted during evolution to ensure and optimize the recognition of specific rhizobial strains by its legume host. Qualitative or quantitative changes in the production of these symbiotic molecular determinants are detrimental for nodulation with its natural host but, in some cases, can also result beneficial for the rhizobium since it extends the nodulation host‐range to other legumes. Potential repercussion of the extension in the nodulation host‐range of rhizobia is discussed.
The Compensation Hypothesis Revisited and Reversed
Authors: Bergh Andreas
Published: December 2020

This note describes how research on the link between economic openness and government size has changed over time. Early interpretations suggested that countries develop welfare states to compensate for volatility caused by economic openness (the compensation hypothesis). Recent findings have cast doubts on this interpretation. For example, more open economies are on average not more volatile, and economic openness does not unambiguously increase the social security demands from voters. Some recent studies suggest that economic openness is particularly beneficial for countries with high taxes and high‐income equality. A re‐interpretation of the compensation hypothesis is thus possible: Through trade, the citizens in large welfare states enjoy some of the benefits associated with cheap labour and high wage dispersion despite their domestic economy being characterized by high real wages, high taxes and a compressed wage distribution.
Mismatched Preferences for Responsiveness: Danish Voters and Politicians
Authors: Pedersen Helene Helboe
Published: December 2020

Responsiveness is key in democratic systems and can be perceived as a continuous interaction between voters and politicians. However, only limited research has studied the alignment or potential mismatch between voter and politician preferences regarding responsiveness. This article examines how voters' and politicians' preferences for responsiveness differ and suggests reasons for the identified differences. It proposes two factors leading to different preferences: recruitment of highly educated politicians and party‐organised elite politics. Using survey data collected among Danish voters, candidates and MPs, the article documents a mismatch between politicians' and voters' preferences for responsiveness: politicians prefer party responsiveness, while voters prefer constituency responsiveness. In line with expectations, voters with a shorter education have stronger preferences for constituency responsiveness, while incumbent MPs are even more party‐oriented than challenger candidates. These findings highlight potential troublesome consequences of the increasingly educational‐elitist recruitment and continued party organisation of legislative politics for the representative relationship between voters and politicians.
Multilevel governance and women's legislative representation
Authors: GUSHCHINA KRISTINA , KAISER ANDRÉ
Published: December 2020

Research shows that electoral systems, gender quotas and a country's socio‐economic development affect women's legislative representation (WLR). Less attention is paid to the effects of the rise of regional political arenas and multilevel politics on WLR. Due to less costly and competitive electoral campaigns, women can have easier access to regional legislatures. We argue that this relationship is mitigated by the distribution of competences between the different levels of the political system and that decentralization's effect on WLR at the regional level is dependent on the regions’ political power. To test this, we use an original dataset on WLR in 383 regional parliaments in 19 European countries from 1970 to 2018. Results of the three‐level models show that more political authority vested into regions leads to a lower level of WLR in the legislatures of the more politically powerful regions in comparison with not only the regions possessing less authority but also with the national parliament. Possible explanations for this effect, such as the attractiveness of these positions to the mostly male political elite and, consequently, increased costs and competitiveness of electoral campaigns, are suggested.
Can Small French Farms Provide an Opportunity for Employment in the Agricultural Sector?
Authors: Lecole Pauline
Published: December 2020

The contributions of small farms to the environment or employment are increasingly recognised. Yet small farm employment receives little support from public policies. Can small farms provide employment opportunities in the agricultural sector? The objective of this work is to contribute to reflections on a better adaptation of public support to the heterogeneity of the contributions of small farms to employment. This article focuses on the example of France, using the 2010 agricultural census data. It proposes a typology of workforce patterns in French small farms.

In 2010, labour‐intensive small farms with paid worker(s) accounted for just over 2 per cent of small farms in France. They were managed by trained farmers, sometimes newcomers to agriculture, and had high value‐added activities like agrotourism, short distribution channels and/or organic farming production. We conclude with recommendations for European and national public policies aimed at encouraging the maintenance and/or creation of employment on small farms. They include, for example, specific support for small farms, adapted to their lower investment needs and a lighter administrative burden to enable them to develop labour‐intensive projects; or a better integration of small farms into employers’ alliances.
Relationship between dietary choline intake and diabetes mellitus in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2007‐2010
Authors: Zhou Long , Li Xiang , Li Shuhong , Wen Xiaoxiao , Peng Yaguang , Zhao Liancheng
Published: December 2020

Background

Little is known about the relationship between dietary intake of choline, which is a major dietary precursor for gut microbiome‐derived trimethylamine N‐oxide (TMAO), and diabetes mellitus (DM) in the general population. The present study aims to explore the relationship between dietary choline intake and DM in the US adult population.

Methods

Cross‐sectional data were derived from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007‐2010 of 8621 individuals aged 20 years or older. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for DM of each quartile category of energy‐adjusted choline intakes. The restricted cubic spline model was used for the dose–response analysis. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to determine the optimal cutoff value of choline intake for predicting DM.

Results

A linear dose–response relationship between dietary choline intake and the odds of DM was found after adjustment for multiple potential confounding factors. With the lowest quartile category of choline as the reference, the multivariable‐adjusted ORs and 95% CIs of the second, third, and highest quartile categories were 1.23 (0.99‐1.53), 1.27 (1.02‐1.58), and 1.49 (1.20‐1.85), respectively, P for trend =0.0004. The ROC analysis identified energy‐adjusted choline of 331.7 mg/8.37‐MJ per day as the optimal cutoff value for predicting DM, with 52.5% sensitivity and 60.7% specificity.

Conclusion

This study supports a positive and linear relationship between dietary choline intake and DM in the US adult population.
Attribute substitution in household vehicle portfolios
Authors: Archsmith James , Gillingham Kenneth T. , Knittel Christopher R. , Rapson David S.
Published: December 2020

Roughly three quarters of vehicles are purchased into multi‐car households. We study whether households are willing to substitute attributes, such as fuel economy, across vehicles within their portfolio. We develop a novel strategy to separately identify idiosyncratic preferences for an attribute from these within‐portfolio effects. Using the universe of household vehicle registration records in California over a 6‐year period, we find that two‐car households exhibit strong substitution across vehicles when faced with an exogenous change to fuel intensity of a kept vehicle. This effect can erode a substantial portion of the benefit from major policies, such as Cash‐for‐Clunkers.
Comparative proteomics of common allergenic tree pollens of birch, alder, and hazel
Authors: Darnhofer Barbara , Tomin Tamara , Liesinger Laura , Schittmayer Matthias , Tomazic Peter Valentin , Birner‐Gruenberger Ruth
Published: December 2020

Background

In addition to known allergens, other proteins in pollen can aid the development of an immune response in allergic individuals. The contribution of the “unknown” protein allergens is apparent in phylogenetically related species where, despite of high homology of the lead allergens, the degree of allergenic potential can vary greatly. The aim of this study was to identify other potentially allergenic proteins in pollen of three common and highly related allergenic tree species: birch (Betula pendula), hazel (Corylus avellana) and alder (Alnus glutinosa).

Methods

For that purpose, we carried out a comprehensive, comparative proteomic screening of the pollen from the three species. In order to maximize protein recovery and coverage, different protein extraction and isolation strategies during sample preparation were employed.

Results

As a result, we report 2500–3000 identified proteins per each of the pollen species. Identified proteins were further used for a number of annotation steps, providing insight into differential distribution of peptidases, peptidase inhibitors and other potential allergenic proteins across the three species. Moreover, we carried out functional enrichment analyses that, interestingly, corroborated high species similarity in spite of their relatively distinct protein profiles.

Conclusion

We provide to our knowledge first insight into proteomes of two very important allergenic pollen types, hazel and alder, where not even transcriptomics data are available, and compared them to birch. Datasets from this study can be readily used as protein databases and as such serve as basis for further functional studies.
Postnatal metformin treatment alters rat Sertoli cell proliferation and daily sperm production
Authors: Rindone Gustavo Marcelo , Gorga Agostina , Pellizzari Eliana Herminia , Camberos María del Carmen , Galardo María Noel , Da Ros Vanina Gabriela , Buffone Mariano Gabriel , Meroni Silvina Beatriz , Riera María Fernanda
Published: December 2020

Background

The direct correlation between Sertoli cell number and sperm production capacity highlights the importance of deciphering external factors that modify Sertoli cell proliferation. A growing body of evidence in vitro suggests that metformin, the main pharmacological agent for type 2 diabetes treatment in children, exerts anti‐proliferative effects on Sertoli cells.

Objective

The aims of this study were to investigate the effect of metformin administration during postnatal period on Sertoli cell proliferation and on cell cycle regulators expression and to analyze the impact of this treatment on the sperm production capacity in adulthood.

Materials and Methods

Sprague Dawley rat pups were randomly divided into two groups: MET (receiving daily 200 mg/kg metformin, from Pnd3 to Pnd7 inclusive) and control (receiving vehicle). BrdU incorporation was measured to assess proliferation. Gene expression analyses were performed in Sertoli cells isolated from animals of both groups. Daily sperm production and sperm parameters were measured in adult male rats (Pnd90) that received neonatal treatment.

Results

MET group exhibited a significant decrease in BrdU incorporation in Sertoli cells. Concordantly, MET group showed a reduction in cyclin D1 and E2 expression and an increase in p21 expression in Sertoli cells. In addition, metformin‐treated animals displayed lower values of daily sperm production on Pnd90.

Discussion and Conclusion

These results suggest that metformin treatment may lead to a decrease in Sertoli cell proliferation, a concomitant altered expression of cell cycle regulators and ultimately, a reduction in daily sperm production in adult animals.
In vitro survival kinetics of microfluidic‐sorted bovine spermatozoa
Authors: Ogata Kazuko , Nagata Maria Portia B. , Nishizono Hirofumi , Yamanouchi Tadayuki , Matsuda Hideo , Ogata Yuki , Takeda Kumiko , Hashiyada Yutaka , Yamashita Kenichi
Published: December 2020

Background

The isolation and characterization of sperm subpopulations that can achieve fertilization is a major challenge of assisted reproduction methods. We focused on the microfluidic sperm sorter as a novel tool for collecting highly motile spermatozoa from heterogeneous semen samples.

Objectives

This study primarily aims to obtain baseline information on sorted spermatozoa according to its characteristics and in vitro life span.

Materials and Methods

Frozen‐thawed bull semen was subjected to microfluidic sperm sorting using diffuser‐type microfluidic sperm sorter (DMSS). After sorting, samples were collected as the sorted spermatozoa and unsorted residual spermatozoa and incubated at 37°C for subsequent evaluation. The samples were assessed at different time points (0 or 1, 6, and 24 h) in terms of motility, which was measured by computer‐assisted sperm analysis (CASA), membrane integrity, mitochondrial function, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production after sorting (0 h). To determine the characteristics and efficiency of DMSS sorting, the sorted spermatozoa were compared with samples collected using the swim‐up method, a conventional method in motile sperm selection.

Results

A comparison between the sorted and residual spermatozoa demonstrated significantly higher motility parameters, membrane integrity, and mitochondrial function of the sorted spermatozoa until 6 h after incubation. The time course decrement of membrane and mitochondrial status were subjected to curve fitting and theoretically supported. Sperm ATP production measured immediately after sorting showed higher ATP generation of the sorted spermatozoa compared with the unsorted, frozen‐thawed spermatozoa. The motility parameters and mitochondrial activity of DMSS‐sorted spermatozoa were higher than the swim‐up‐collected spermatozoa (p < 0.05).

Discussion and Conclusion

These results indicate that DMSS sorting can strictly select highly motile spermatozoa with the ability to maintain its membrane integrity and mitochondrial function related to ATP production. We speculate that the device that is able to sort high‐quality spermatozoa can have great potential in assisted reproduction.
Hip contractures were associated with low gross motor function in children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Mechlenburg Inger , Østergaard Malene Tousgaard Foget , Menzel Christina Bach , Nordbye‐Nielsen Kirsten
Published: December 2020

Aim

The aim was to identify the prevalence of hip contractures and their association with gross motor function and pain in the lower extremities among Danish children with cerebral palsy (CP).

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was based on data collected during regular clinical examinations in 2018–2019 and registered in the National Danish Clinical Quality Database of children with CP. The study population was 688 children (59% boys) aged five to 12 years across all Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) levels. Any associations between hip contracture and gross motor function and pain were investigated with logistic regression analysis and presented as odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).

Results

The prevalence of hip contracture was 22% across all five GMFCS levels, and the incidence varied across the five Danish regions. The odds ratios for hip contracture were significantly higher at GMFCS level IV (OR 1.99, 95% CI 1.10–3.62) and V (OR 5.49, 95% CI 3.33–9.07) compared with level I. Hip contractures were not significantly associated with pain in the lower extremities (OR 1.43, 95% CI 0.95–2.15).

Conclusion

Hip contractures were frequent and associated with low gross motor function, but not lower extremity pain, in children with CP.
Provenance Investigation of Three Marble Relief Sculptures from Ancient Corinth: New Evidence for the Circulation of the White Marble from Mani
Authors: Maniatis Y. , Tambakopoulos D. , Lazzarini L. , Sturgeon M. C.
Published: December 2020

Three unique marble relief sculptures of the Roman period from Ancient Corinth were studied using a variety of non‐invasive and minimal invasive techniques. The sculptures are of similar size, relief technique, and distinguished material compared to all other sculptures in Corinth. Thus, apart from the interest in identifying the origin of this distinct marble the question of whether they could belong to the same original monument is raised. To tackle this question, we used: (a) optical examination of the whole objects in‐situ under transmitted light from a standard lumen source and using portable digital microscopes, (b) stable isotopes δ13C and δ18O (IRMS), (c) electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy (EPR) and (d) selective thin‐section examination. The results indicated that all three reliefs are made of the same marble. Moreover, their identical isotopic signature signifies that they could even belong to the same block of marble that was used for building the monument. As for the provenance of the marble, detailed treatment of the results concluded that the most likely origin must be the white marble quarries of the Mani peninsula in the Peloponnese. This find provides new evidence for the circulation of white Mani marble in Roman times.
The Role of Tin and Arsenic in XIONGNU Bronze Technology and Their Sociopolitical Implications over Time
Authors: Park J.‐S. , Diimaajav E. , Gelegdorj E.
Published: December 2020

Metallographic examination of numerous bronze objects from the royal Xiongnu tomb at Gol Mod 2 in Mongolia has revealed evidence for a tin‐conserving environment suggesting the emergence of a new technological tradition defined by decreasing reliance on tin and arsenic over time. This apparently humble alloy method was likely facilitated by the advent of iron and steel technologies replacing bronze in the manufacture of critical functional items. We propose that this development was a key episode in the evolution of the Mongolian bronze metallurgical tradition. By substituting iron for utilitarian tools and weapons that had previously been made from bronze, steppe populations overcame a technological hurdle evidenced by the under‐utilization or conservation of tin as a local resource. This major technological shift may well have been one factor in facilitating the rise and development of the Xiongnu state (third century BCE–second century AD).
Sleep problems and worrying precede psychotic symptoms during an online intervention for psychosis
Authors: Lüdtke Thies , Pfuhl Gerit , Moritz Steffen , Rüegg Nina Lee , Berger Thomas , Westermann Stefan
Published: December 2020

Objective

Experience sampling assessments (multiple assessments per day for approximately one week) indicate that positive symptoms fluctuate over time in psychosis. Precursors, such as sleep problems or worrying, predict these fluctuations. To date, it remains unclear whether the same precursors predict symptom variability also during treatment in an online intervention for psychosis, using assessments lying temporally further apart.

Methods

Participants completed brief intermediate online self‐report assessments on their computers (up to every 7 days during a 2‐month waiting period and up to twice every 6 days during a 2‐month intervention period) within a randomized controlled trial. We monitored the course of paranoia, auditory verbal hallucinations, and their theory‐driven precursors worrying, negative affect, self‐esteem, self‐reported cognitive biases, and quality of sleep in n = 124 participants (M = 10.32 assessments per participant; SD = 6.07). We tested group differences regarding the course of the composite of precursors, group differences regarding the effect of the composite on subsequent momentary psychotic symptoms, and the effect of each individual precursor on subsequent psychotic symptoms, using (lagged) linear mixed models.

Results

The course composite precursors over time and their lagged effect on subsequent momentary psychotic symptoms did not differ between groups. During the intervention, increased worrying and decreased quality of sleep preceded heightened momentary psychotic symptoms.

Conclusion

The regression‐based design does not allow drawing causal conclusions. However, worrying and sleep problems likely represent underlying mechanisms of psychotic symptom variability during online psychosis treatment, indicating that experience sampling findings from everyday life generalize to interventions with assessments lying several days apart.

Practitioner points

Worrying and sleep problems represent important mechanisms of symptom fluctuations during an online intervention for people with psychosis.

Our findings further support the notion that worrying and sleep problems are important treatment targets in psychological interventions for people with psychosis.

Momentary levels of worrying and quality of sleep can signal subsequent fluctuations of psychotic symptom severity so practitioners should monitor these variables during treatment.

Worrying seems to predict subsequent paranoia specifically during treatment whereas quality of sleep predicts both paranoia and auditory verbal hallucinations
Anti‐FIRΔexon2 autoantibody as a novel indicator for better overall survival in gastric cancer
Authors: Kobayashi Sohei , Hiwasa Takaki , Ishige Takayuki , Kano Masayuki , Hoshino Tyuji , Rahmutulla Bahityar , Seimiya Masanori , Shimada Hideaki , Nomura Fumio , Matsubara Hisahiro , Matsushita Kazuyuki
Published: December 2020

There is no clinically available biomarker for efficiently indicating the overall survival or therapy response of gastric cancer (GC). The autoantibodies (Abs) in the sera of anti‐far‐upstream element‐binding protein‐interacting repressor‐lacking exon2 (FIRΔexon2), anti‐sorting nexin 15, and anti‐spermatogenesis and oogenesis–specific basic helix–loop–helix 1 were markedly higher in GC patients than in healthy donors (HDs). These Abs were identified by large‐scale serological identification of antigens by recombinant cDNA expression cloning screenings and their expression levels were evaluated by amplified luminescence proximity homogeneous assay. In particular, compared with age‐matched HDs, the level of anti‐FIRΔexon2 Abs in GC patients was significantly higher (P < .001). The Spearman's rank correlation analysis between anti‐FIRΔexon2 Abs and clinically available tumor markers such as carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) was statistically insignificant, indicating that FIRΔexon2 Abs is an independent biomarker. We performed receiver‐operating curve analysis to evaluate the anti‐FIRΔexon2 Ab as a candidate biomarker with CEA and carbohydrate antigen 19‐9 (CA19‐9). The overall survival of GC patients with high anti‐FIRΔexon2 Abs titer was significantly favorable (P = .04) than that of GC patients who were below detection level of anti‐FIRΔexon2 Abs. However, clinical stages were not apparently correlated with the levels of anti‐FIRΔexon2 Ab, CEA, and CA19‐9. In conclusion, anti‐FIRΔexon2 Abs detected in GC patients is a potential biomarker for monitoring a better prognosis. Hence, anti‐FIRΔexon2 Abs is a promising biomarker for indicating better overall survival of gastric cancer patients.
Switching between biologics in severe asthma patients. When the first choice is not proven to be the best
Authors: Papaioannou Andriana I. , Fouka Evangelia , Papakosta Despina , Papiris Spyridon , Loukides Stelios
Published: December 2020

During the last decades, new treatments targeting disease mechanisms referred as biologics have been introduced in the therapy of asthma and currently, five monoclonal antibodies have been approved. Although these therapeutic agents have been formulated to target specific asthma endotypes, it is often difficult for the treating physician to identify which patient is the best candidate for each one of these specific treatments especially in the clinical scenario of a patient in whom clinical characteristics overlap between different endotypes, allowing the selection of more than one biologic agent. As no head‐to‐head comparisons between these biologics have been attempted, there is no evidence on the superiority of one biologic agent over the other. Furthermore, a physician's first therapeutic decision, no matter how carefully has been made, may often result in suboptimal clinical response and drug discontinuation, indicating the need for switching to a different biologic. In this short review, we discuss the available evidence regarding the switching between biologics in patients with severe asthma and we propose a simple algorithm on switching possibilities in case that the physicians’ initial choice is proven not to be the best.
E3 ubiquitin ligase Casitas B lineage lymphoma-b and its potential therapeutic implications for immunotherapy
Authors: Jafari D , Mousavi M J , Keshavarz Shahbaz S , Jafarzadeh L , Tahmasebi S , Spoor J , Esmaeilzadeh A
Published: December 2020

The distinction of self from non-self is crucial to prevent autoreactivity and ensure protection from infectious agents and tumors. Maintaining the balance between immunity and tolerance of immune cells is strongly controlled by several sophisticated regulatory mechanisms of the immune system. Among these, the E3 ligase ubiquitin Casitas B cell lymphoma-b (Cbl-b) is a newly identified component in the ubiquitin-dependent protein degradation system, which is thought to be an important negative regulator of immune cells. An update on the current knowledge and new concepts of the relevant immune homeostasis program co-ordinated by Cbl-b in different cell populations could pave the way for future immunomodulatory therapies of various diseases, such as autoimmune and allergic diseases, infections, cancers and other immunopathological conditions. In the present review, the latest findings are comprehensively summarized on the molecular structural basis of Cbl-b and the suppressive signaling mechanisms of Cbl-b in physiological and pathological immune responses, as well as its emerging potential therapeutic implications for immunotherapy in animal models and human diseases.
Bone mineral density and trabecular bone score in patients with 21‐hydroxylase deficiency after glucocorticoid treatment
Authors: Gao Yinjie , Wang Ou , Guan Wenmin , Wu Xueyan , Mao Jiangfeng , Wang Xi , Yu Wei , Nie Min
Published: December 2020

Objective

Patients with 21‐hydroxylase deficiency (21‐OHD) are at risk of reduced bone mineral density (BMD) and fracture due to long‐term glucocorticoid treatment. Trabecular bone score (TBS) is complementary to conventional BMD as a marker for bone quality in patients with glucocorticoid‐induced osteoporosis. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the BMD and TBS in a cohort of patients with 21‐OHD and analyse factors related to TBS.

Design

An observational study.

Patients

A total of 46 21‐OHD adult patients treated with glucocorticoid for over 10 years who visited Peking Union Medical College Hospital between 2015 and 2019 were recruited. Eight male patients included in this study were all under 50 years old, and 38 female patients were all premenopausal.

Measurements

Diagnosis was confirmed by multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification combined with sequencing. Data were collected on physical characteristics, serum hormones and glucocorticoid treatment. Skeletal quality was evaluated by BMD and TBS, and factors related to TBS were analysed.

Results

Among the 46 patients, 2 (4.3%) had low BMD (Z‐score ≤ −2), while 11 (23.9%) patients had low TBS (degraded or partially degraded microarchitecture). The proportion of bone abnormality evaluated by TBS was higher than that by BMD (p < .001). Patients with lower TBS had significantly higher daily hydrocortisone dosage (p = .009 for males; p = .019 for females). TBS value was negatively correlated with daily hydrocortisone dosage (r = −.317, p = .026), and positively correlated with BMI in female patients (r = .345, p = .034). And there was a negative correlation between TBS value and the current age in male patients (r = −.741, p = .036). The distribution of genotypes (p = 1.000 for male; p = .567 for female) or phenotypes (p = .486 for male; p = .075 for female) had no statistical difference in patients with normal or abnormal TBS.

Conclusions

Approximately 24% of patients with 21‐OHD had abnormal microarchitecture of their bone in our study, and TBS score was negatively correlated with daily glucocorticoid dosage in patients. TBS may be used alongside conventional BMD as a complementary marker for bone evaluation in 21‐OHD patients.