bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Postnatal self-care experience of Truku women’s traditions and mainstream acculturation and reconstruction in Taiwan
Authors: Huang Hsiao-Ching , Tsai Tsai-Fu , Wang Ya-Ching , Subeq Yi-Maun
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The preservation and disappearance of indigenous people’s traditional knowledge system, under mainstream social culture immersion and fusion, have presented a dynamic and changing acculturation interactive relationship impacting Truku women’s health concepts. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to explore how the traditional Gaya knowledge system and mainstream culture confinement care model affect the beliefs and behaviours of postpartum self-care amongst contemporary Truku women.

Design/methodology/approach

An ethnographic semi-structured method, based on cultural care factors and the Leininger Sunrise Model, was conducted to interview 17 Truku women with childbearning experience in eastern Taiwan. As data were collected, UDIST Vivo 11.0 software was applied for analysis.

Findings

Amongst the three knowledge system categories, namely, traditional, mainstream and reconstruction, the traditional knowledge system, including Gaya norms, provides the overall cultural value of a Truku family. While taboo is inherited through the experience of the elders, the mainstream knowledge system favours the Han. However, the reconstruction knowledge system highlights the “functional” response strategies based on Truku women’s comfort and conveniences.

Originality/value

Limited relevant studies have focused on the health and postpartum self-care knowledge of ethnic Truku women in Taiwan. The results are expected to provide clinical medical personnel with a reference and strengthen cultural sensitivity and the ability to implement the cultural congruency care of postpartum indigenous women in Taiwan.
Narratives of the Big-4 transparency reports: country effects or firm strategy?
Authors: Zorio-Grima Ana , Carmona Pedro
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine whether audit firms use transparency reports (TRs) as a tool to standardize their brand image or whether the semantic and content analysis in these reports indicates a higher importance of country effects.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample includes 28 TRs published in English by the Big-4 audit firms from five EU countries (the UK, Ireland, Luxemburg, Hungary and Malta), as well as in the USA and Australia.

Findings

Using content analysis, this research finds that there is variation in the language used in TRs both across audit firms and jurisdictions. Most TRs from different countries of the same firm tend to be clustered, suggesting that audit firms use transparency reporting as a strategy to differentiate themselves from their competitors. In fact, EY and KPMG seem to have more standardized internal procedures and standardized information. Regarding country effects, the results indicate that TRs in the UK are longer and show more detailed information.

Originality/value

Overall, this research is innovative in the sense that it applies a new methodological approach to an emerging topic such as audit transparency reporting. It identifies emerging topics of voluntary disclosure, such as financial data of the firm, gender and ethnic origin of employees, community involvement or sanctions, among other topics of interest which might be explored in detail by future research to understand the construction of the profession.
The dynamic interaction between high-commitment HRM and servant leadership
Authors: McCune Stein Aaron , Ai Min Yan
Published: June 2019

Purpose

Based on social exchange theory and the substitutes for leadership theory, this paper aims to investigate whether an organization’s high-commitment HRM strategy can substitute for the effect of servant leadership in promoting employees’ affective commitment, psychological empowerment and intent to remain with the organization.

Design/methodology/approach

This study’s hypotheses were tested with moderation and mediation analyses conducted on a sample of 172 Chinese employees.

Findings

The results show significant negative interaction effects between high-commitment HRM systems and servant leadership, such that high levels of one will reduce the positive effect of the other on affective commitment and psychological empowerment. Further, the effects of high-commitment HRM systems and servant leadership on turnover intentions are mediated through affective commitment and psychological empowerment. Finally, support was found for a mediated moderation model where the negative interaction effect between high-commitment HRM systems and servant leadership on turnover intentions is mediated through affective commitment.

Practical implications

The results of this study can help practitioners identify alternative means to influence employees’ positive attitudes and work motivation when implementing high-commitment HRM systems is not feasible for the organization.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the leadership literature by providing evidence supporting the substitutes for leadership theory and describing the specific conditions under which this theory is valid, as well as contributing to the HRM literature by examining the dynamic interaction of HRM and leadership.
Effect of celebrity endorsement on telecommunication companies’ reputation
Authors: Zakari Mariama , Dogbe Courage Simon Kofi , Asante Collins
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The study aims to assess the moderating role of celebrity characteristics in the relationship between celebrity endorsement and telecommunication companies’ reputation.

Design/methodology/approach

Analysis of results was based on 700 customers in the telecommunication sector. Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to check for validity and reliability of the observed items. A hierarchical regression model was estimated to test the various hypotheses set for the study.

Findings

The study finds that celebrity endorsement in itself had no significant effect on the reputation of telecommunication companies. Celebrity attractiveness, likeability and trustworthiness had a direct effect (positive) on the reputation of telecommunication companies and positively moderated the effect of celebrity endorsement on telecommunication company reputation. Celebrity expertise had no direct effect on telecommunication company reputation but positively moderated the effect of celebrity endorsement and telecommunication company reputation.

Research limitations/implications

This study was purely quantitative. Future study could consider a mixed approach and include senior management members of the telecom firms for an in-depth interview.

Practical implications

In signing on celebrities as brand ambassadors, management must pay particular attention to celebrity attractiveness, likeability and trustworthiness. This would be more rewarding to the firms.

Originality/value

The study adds to the little empirical knowledge available on celebrity endorsement in sub-Saharan Africa and telecommunication sector in particular.
Stock market, banking sector and economic growth
Authors: Guha Deb Soumya , Mishra Sibanjan , Banerjee Pradip
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the causal relationship between economic development and financial sector development for 28 countries at different stages of their development. The authors specifically focus on the nature of causality during economic boom and tranquil cycles.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses quarterly time series panels of 17 developed and 11 emerging countries, during 1993Q1-2014Q4 with each having three sub-panels – full sample, a period of the economic uptrend (UP), and period of the economic downtrend. The authors use a univariate analysis for initial screening followed by panel unit root test, panel co-integration and causality test proposed by Toda–Yamamoto to examine the causal relationship.

Findings

The principal results suggest that for developed economies, there is a causal flow from financial sector to real sector in line with the “supply-leading” hypothesis, whereas for emerging economies, it is from real sector to financial sector, in line with the “demand-following” hypothesis. This overall relationship is strong for both emerging and developed economies during economic boom or UP cycles, but becomes weak during economic downturns or tranquil periods.

Originality/value

This study is different from previous studies on this issue and contributes to the existing literature in a number of ways. First, the focus of this paper revolves around identification of differential patterns in causal flows between real and financial sectors for different economies, across different economic cycles. Second, to present a robust representation of financial sector, the authors consider both banking sector and stock market parameters as the proxy for financial sector development. Third, the authors address the “stock-flow problem” in the measurement of financial variables a typical criticism of some of the previous studies. Finally, the authors use a rich sample size comprising of about 2,500 quarterly observations for each variable, with about 1,500 observations from developed and 1,000 from emerging economies.
A novel multiple-axis MEMS gyroscope-accelerometer with decoupling frames
Authors: Baranov Pavel , Nesterenko Tamara , Barbin Evgenii , Koleda Aleksej , Tanaka Shuji , Tsukamoto Takashiro , Kulinich Ivan , Zykov Dmitry , Shelupanov Alexander
Published: June 2019

Purpose

Technological capabilities of manufacturing microelectromechanical system (MEMS) gyroscopes are still insufficient if compared to manufacturing high-efficient gyroscopes and accelerometers. This creates weaknesses in their mechanical structure and restrictions in the measurement accuracy, stability and reliability of MEMS gyroscopes and accelerometers. This paper aims to develop a new architectural solutions for optimization of MEMS gyroscopes and accelerometers and propose a multi-axis MEMS inertial module combining the functions of gyroscope and accelerometer.

Design/methodology/approach

The finite element modeling (FEM) and the modal analysis in FEM are used for sensing, drive and control electrode capacitances of the multi-axis MEMS inertial module with the proposed new architecture. The description is given to its step-by-step process of manufacturing. Algorithms are developed to detect its angular rates and linear acceleration along three Cartesian axes.

Findings

Experimental results are obtained for eigenfrequencies and capacitances of sensing, drive and control electrodes for 50 manufactured prototypes of the silicon electromechanical sensor (SES). For 42 SES prototypes, a good match is observed between the calculated and simulated capacitance values of comb electrodes. Thus, the mean-square deviation is not over 20 per cent. The maximum difference between the calculated and simulated eigenfrequencies in the drive channel of 11 SES prototypes is not over 3 per cent. The same difference is detected for eigenfrequencies in the first sensing channel of 17 SES prototypes.

Originality/value

This study shows a way to design and optimize the structure and theoretical background for the development of the MEMS inertial module combining the functions of gyroscope and accelerometer. The obtained results will improve and expand the manufacturing technology of MEMS gyroscopes and accelerometers.
Can Chipotle compete by delivering “food with integrity”?
Authors: Assenza Pauline , Lewis Michael S.
Published: June 2019

Research methodology

The case data were obtained from secondary sources including academic, newspaper and periodical sources.

Case overview/synopsis

The Founder of Chipotle Mexican Grill, CEO Steve Ells, was a restaurant innovator credited with creating the fast-casual experience. He believed that food, sourced and prepared responsibly, could help “cultivate a better world.” Unfortunately, he had to step down after a continuing series of food contamination events drove away both investors and customers. In 2018, new CEO Brian Niccol was brought in from Taco Bell to reposition the brand and regain confidence. Was it possible to continue with Chipotle’s mission of “food with integrity” or was another strategy necessary?

Complexity academic level

This case was prepared for an undergraduate strategy course. It can be used to illustrate all the key points in Chapter 1 of a traditional undergraduate strategy textbook. This case would be best placed in the first weeks of the course, as a first case to introduce to students the idea of strategy as a process that continuously assesses and revises strategic directions and decisions. It introduces a discussion of the role of mission, vision and values as part of the strategy process, and addresses the responsibility of leadership to do an ongoing evaluation of a firm’s strategic choices.
Capture and evaluation of innovative ideas in early stages of product development
Authors: Madzík Peter
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a structured procedure for the capture and evaluation of innovative ideas in the early stages of product development. The procedure is designed to take account of internal and external factors affecting the value of innovative ideas.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed procedure is based on divergent and convergent approaches to innovation. Ideas are generated and captured using targeted questions and subsequently evaluated using modifications of the Kano model and failure mode and effect analysis (FMEA). Idea evaluation considers four criteria – delight, originality, market share potential and simplicity – which are used to compute an “idea priority number”.

Findings

A case study looking at innovations in swimming goggles verified the validity of the proposed procedure. The procedure also supports fact-based decision making and applies a structured perspective to the innovation process that makes it easier to manage.

Research limitations/implications

The case study made use of a pilot survey in which 32 customers participated. Although the case study was only intended as a demonstration of the method’s use, such a sample size could lead to unreliable results in certain cases.

Originality/value

Applications of standard or expanded FMEA do not add value to a product because the main purpose of the approach is to prevent failure. The proposed inversion of FMEA logic combined with customer view via the Kano model offers a method for the structured analysis of product innovations. No similar approach to the evaluation of innovations has so far appeared in the literature.
Stabilization of Black Rice (Oryza Sativa, L. Indica) Anthocyanins Using Plant Extracts for Copigmentation and Maltodextrin for Encapsulation
Authors: Raharjo Sri , Purwandari Fiametta Ayu , Hastuti Pudji , Olsen Karsten
Published: June 2019

Black rice (Oryza sativa L. indica) is one of the cereal commodities considered to be a source of anthocyanin. One of the obstacles of using anthocyanins as natural food colorants is their low stability. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of natural plants extracts on anthocyanin copigmentation and to study the stability of the encapsulated copigmented anthocyanin during storage under different temperatures and light exposure. Dried bilimbi leaves (BL) and sow thistle leaves (STL) were extracted using ethanol to obtain the crude flavonoid extract that was subsequently purified using solid phase extraction. Both crude (CBL, CSTL) and purified (PBL, PSTL) extract were used as copigment agents with the molar ratio of 1:0.1 to 1:10 at pH 1 and pH 3. The copigmentation effect was evaluated by measuring the wavelength and absorbance shifts at wavelengths of 500 to 600 nm. The stability of the dried anthocyanin powder was evaluated under different temperatures and light exposure for up to 4 weeks. Anthocyanin was successfully copigmented with BL and STL extracts showing a wavelength shift and absorbance increase at pH 1 and pH 3. Purification of BL enhanced the hyperchromic effect more than that of the crude form, in contrast to the STL. Meanwhile, the retention of absorbance (%) for encapsulated copigmented anthocyanin samples was within 74% to 83% at the end of the storage period.

Practical Application

Natural food pigment such as anthocyanin obtained from plant extract usually shows very limited stability under various processing conditions. This study shows that color stability of anthocyanin extracted from black rice can be improved by copigmentation with flavonoids extracted from particular plants. Encapsulation of the copigmented anthocyanin could further enhance its color stability. The availability of encapsulated and copigmented anthocyanins with improved color stability is expected to provide more alternatives for especially the beverage industry to choose suitable natural colorant for their products.
Osimertinib‐induced severe interstitial lung disease: A case report
Authors: Fan Mengdi , Mo Ting , Shen Lulei , Yang Li
Published: June 2019

Lung cancer is globally one of the leading causes of malignant tumor‐related mortality and ranks as having the highest incidence found in men and second in women. Osimertinib is a drug used to target lung cancer but its toxicity is not fully understood. Here we present a case of lung adenocarcinoma in a 78‐year‐old man that was treated and responded favorably with Osimertinib after the failure of other therapies. Unfortunately, the patient developed severe interstitial lung disease during the treatment procedure.
Effect of preoperative fluid therapy on hemodynamic stability during anesthesia induction, a randomized study
Authors: Myrberg Tomi , Lindelöf Linnea , Hultin Magnus
Published: June 2019

Background

Preserving perfusion pressure during anesthesia induction is crucial. Standardized anesthesia methods, alert fluid therapy and vasoactive drugs may help maintain adequate hemodynamic conditions throughout the induction procedure. In this randomized study, we hypothesized that a pre‐operative volume bolus based on lean body weight would decrease the incidence of significant blood pressure drops (BPD) after induction with target‐controlled infusion (TCI) or rapid sequence induction (RSI).

Methods

Eighty individuals scheduled for non‐cardiac surgery were randomized to either a pre‐operative colloid fluid bolus of 6 ml kg−1 lean body weight or no bolus, and then anesthetized by means of TCI or RSI. The main outcome measure was blood pressure drops below the mean arterial pressure 65 mm Hg during the first 20 minutes after anesthesia induction. ClinicalTrials.com Identifier: NCT03394833.

Results

Pre‐operative fluid therapy decreased the incidence of BPDs fivefold, from 23 of 40 (57.5%) individuals without fluids to 5 of 40 (12.5%) with fluid management, P < .001. The mean BPD was greater in the groups without pre‐operative fluids compared to the groups with fluid management; 53 ± 18 mm Hg vs 43 ± 14 mm Hg, P = .007. The overall mean volume of pre‐operative fluid bolus infused was 387 ± 52 ml. There was no difference in hemodynamic stability between TCI and RSI. No correlation was shown between incidence of BPDs and increasing age, medication, hypertension, diabetes, renal failure, or low physical capacity.

Conclusions

Pre‐operative fluid bolus decreased the incidence of significant blood pressure drops during TCI and RSI induction of general anesthesia.
Convergent Evidence From Humans and Drosophila melanogaster Implicates the Transcription Factor MEF2B/Mef2 in Alcohol Sensitivity
Authors: Schmitt Rebecca E. , Shell Brandon C. , Lee Kristen M. , Shelton Keith L. , Mathies Laura D. , Edwards Alexis C. , Grotewiel Mike
Published: June 2019

Background

Self‐Rating of the Effects of Alcohol (SRE) measures level of response to ethanol (EtOH) in humans. Interestingly, there is a positive relationship between the SRE and risk for abusing alcohol, suggesting mechanistic connections between SRE and alcohol abuse.

Methods

To identify candidate genes with a role in SRE and alcohol‐related behavior more generally, we coupled human genetic analyses with studies in Drosophila melanogaster. We first performed a gene‐based analysis of Genomewide association studies (GWAS) summary statistics for SRE in the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children sample. Based on prior findings in humans, orthology to fly genes, and the availability of genetic reagents, we selected a subset of these genes for studies on EtOH behavior in Drosophila.

Results

We found 37 genes with nominal associations in our SRE GWAS. We explored the role of 6 orthologous genes in Drosophila EtOH sedation and rapid tolerance. We found that the transcription factor Mef2 is required for normal EtOH sedation in flies. Pan‐neuronal expression of 2 independent Mef2 RNAi transgenes significantly reduced Mef2 expression and made flies resistant to EtOH sedation. Additionally, flies with multiple independent mutant alleles of Mef2 were also resistant to EtOH sedation, confirming a role for Mef2 in this behavior. Altered expression of Mef2 did not change EtOH rapid tolerance or cause a net change in internal EtOH concentrations.

Conclusions

Our studies indicate that MEF2B influences SRE in humans and that Mef2 impacts EtOH sedation in Drosophila.
Circular RNA expression profiling in the nucleus accumbens: Effects of electroacupuncture treatment on morphine‐induced conditioned place preference
Authors: Zhang Han , Wang Qian , Wang Qisheng , Liu Anlong , Qin Fenfen , Sun Qinmei , Li Qian , Gu Yun , Tang Zongxiang , Lu Shengfeng , Lu Zhigang
Published: June 2019

Electroacupuncture (EA) has been developed on the basis of traditional Chinese acupuncture. EA can suppress craving in opioid addicts and opioid‐seeking responses in rodents. However, the molecular mechanism of EA on the rewarding properties of morphine and craving responses is not known. Here, we have applied a conditioned place preference paradigm in mice to measure morphine‐induced rewarding effects along with EA treatment. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) can function as micro RNA (miRNA) sponges to effectively regulate gene expression levels. CircRNA profiling within the nucleus accumbens (NAc) was performed in EA‐treated and sham‐treated mice. Following RNAseq, data were analyzed by gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia Genes and Genomes (KEGG) tools. We identified 112 significantly differentially expressed circRNAs, including 51 that were up‐regulated and 61 that were down‐regulated. Our bioinformatics analyses show that these differentially expressed circRNAs map into pathways that are mainly involved with renin secretion and the cGMP‐PKG signaling. We further constructed a circRNA‐miRNA network that predicts the potential roles of the differentially expressed circRNAs and the interaction of circRNAs with miRNAs. Our secondary sequencing and bioinformatics analysis in the NAc after EA treatment on morphine‐induced CPP provides putative novel targets on molecular mechanisms involved in morphine reinforcement and possibly craving.
A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study of the kappa opioid receptor antagonist, CERC‐501, in a human laboratory model of smoking behavior
Authors: Jones Jermaine D. , Babalonis Shanna , Marcus Ronald , Vince Bradley , Kelsh Debra , Lofwall Michelle R. , Fraser Heather , Paterson Blake , Martinez Suky , Martinez Diana M. , Nunes Edward V. , Walsh Sharon L. , Comer Sandra D.
Published: June 2019

Preclinical data indicate that selective kappa opioid receptor antagonists reduce nicotine self‐administration and withdrawal symptoms. The aim of the current study was to determine whether treatment with CERC‐501, an orally available, potent, and selective kappa opioid receptor antagonist, could alleviate nicotine withdrawal and craving and mitigate mood alterations associated with nicotine withdrawal in humans. Healthy, adult cigarette smokers were enrolled into this randomized, multisite, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, crossover study. Participants completed two 8‐day treatment phases during which they received either CERC‐501 (15 mg, p.o., once daily) or placebo. On the seventh day of each dosing phase, participants were admitted as inpatients for an 18‐hour cigarette abstinence period followed by experimental testing. The primary outcome measures were (a) performance on the McKee Smoking Lapse test (ie, latency to smoke in exchange for money) and (b) number of cigarettes self‐administered during a 60‐minute ad lib smoking period. Other outcomes included measures of craving, mood, anxiety, nicotine withdrawal, and subjective effects of cigarette smoking. A total of 71 participants who smoked an average of approximately 23 cigarettes per day were enrolled, and 56 subjects completed the study. CERC‐501 was well tolerated, but it did not significantly alter the latency to start smoking (CERC‐501: 16.5 min vs placebo: 17.7 min) or the number of cigarettes smoked (CERC‐501: 3.3 cigarettes vs placebo: 3.1 cigarettes). Compared with placebo, CERC‐501 also did not affect cigarette craving, mood, anxiety, nicotine withdrawal, or subjective effects of smoking. These findings do not support a role for CERC‐501 in the treatment of nicotine use disorder.
The present crisis in male reproductive health: an urgent need for a political, social, and research roadmap
Authors: De Jonge C. , Barratt C.L. R.
Published: June 2019

Background

There is a global crisis in male reproductive health. Evidence comes from globally declining sperm counts and increasing male reproductive system abnormalities, such as cryptorchidism, germ cell tumors, and onset of puberty. Male factor infertility occurs in ~40% of couples experiencing infertility. Data demonstrate an association between male infertility and overall health. Associated significant health conditions include diabetes mellitus, metabolic disorders, and cardiovascular disease. Adding to the complexity is that men typically do not seek health care unless there is acute medical need or, as in the case of the infertile couple, the male goes for a reproductive examination and semen analysis. However, 25% of the time a reproductive health examination does not occur. Couples are increasingly utilizing IVF at more advanced ages, and advanced paternal age is associated with increased risk for (i) adverse perinatal outcomes for both offspring and mother; (ii) early child mortality, cancer, and mental health issues. In addition to age, paternal lifestyle factors, such as obesity and smoking, impact not only the male fertility but also the offspring wellness.

Objectives

The purpose of this paper was (i) to spotlight emerging and concerning data on male reproductive health, the relationship(s) between male reproductive and somatic health, and the heritable conditions father can pass to offspring, and (ii) to present a strategic roadmap with the goals of increasing (a) the awareness of men and society on the aforementioned, (b) the participation of men in healthcare seeking, and (c) advocacy to invigorate policy and funding agencies to support increased research into male reproductive biology.

Conclusions

The Male Reproductive Health Initiative (MRHI) is a newly established and rapidly growing global consortium of key opinion leaders in research, medicine, funding and policy agencies, and patient support groups that are moving forward the significant task of accomplishing the goals of the strategic roadmap.
Observational study on the influence of averaging time on oximetry results in infants and children
Authors: Vagedes Jan , Dietz Klaus , Poets Christian F.
Published: June 2019

Aim

Oximetry values are influenced by the averaging time (AT) used. We aimed to evaluate the effect of different ATs on number, duration, mean single event and total integral of desaturations in preterm infants and children to convert between parameters obtained with different ATs.

Methods

In a prospective observational study, 49 children underwent sleep laboratory‐based polysomnography and 15 preterm infants were studied in the intensive care unit. Their raw red‐to‐infrared‐saturation‐data were reprocessed using seven different ATs (3–16 seconds). Desaturation thresholds were <80% (infants) and <90% (children), conversion formulas and their median percentage errors were calculated.

Results

We found a linear relationship between the logarithms of the ATs and those of the desaturation parameters, leading to a conversion formula with different exponents. Based on this relationship, the number of desaturations decreased from AT = 3s to AT = 16s by factor 0.28 (children) and 0.18 (infants); total oxygen saturation integral decreased by factor 0.72 (children) and 0.48 (infants). The desaturation duration increased by factor 1.89 (children) and 3.34 (infants).

Conclusion

The number and total integral decreased, but the duration and mean single event integral increased with increasing AT. These changes were stronger in infants. Conversion formulas may facilitate comparisons between studies using different averaging times.
Gender status effect on carcass and meat quality traits of feedlot Angus × Nellore cattle
Authors: Mueller Lenise Freitas , Balieiro Júlio César Carvalho , Ferrinho Adrielle Matias , Martins Taiane da Silva , da Silva Corte Rosana Ruegger Pereira , de Amorim Tamyres Rodrigues , de Jesus Mangini Furlan Joyce , Baldi Fernando , Pereira Angélica Simone Cravo
Published: June 2019

The study evaluated the effect of gender status on carcass and meat quality of feedlot Angus × Nellore cattle. A total of 176 cattle, 20 months old, were confined for 190‐days and assigned to four treatments: bulls, immunocastrated, steers, and heifers. Bulls had greater rib eye area and HCW (p = 0.0001). Heifers had increased fat thickness (p = 0.0001). Steers and heifers had higher marbling scores (p = 0.0001). There was interaction between gender and aging time for Warner‐Bratzler Shear Force (p = 0.0002), L* (p = 0.0118), and b* (p = 0.0113) values of beef. The sensory panel results showed that beef from bulls had the lowest consumer overall acceptance (p = 0.0278). Especially, regardless tenderness, steers and immunocastrated beef were considered tender, independent of aging time. Beef produced by heifers, steers, and immunocastrated is considered to be of higher quality than bulls. Thus, it is may be an interesting alternative to produce high‐quality beef than bulls, to attend the consumer demand for high‐quality products. Additionally, the low fatty acids n6 levels and low n6:n3 ratio, high levels of CLA, MUFAs, and oleic acid suggests that the heifer meat is favorable for human health.
Upslope‐climbing shelf‐edge clinoforms and the stepwise evolution of the northern European glaciation (lower Pleistocene Eridanos Delta system, U.K. North Sea): When sediment supply overwhelms accommodation
Authors: Patruno Stefano , Scisciani Vittorio , Helland‐Hansen William , D'Intino Nico , Reid William , Pellegrini Claudio
Published: June 2019

Clinoforms are basinward‐dipping and accreting palaeo‐bathymetric profiles that record palaeo‐environmental conditions and processes; thus, clinothems represent natural palaeo‐archives. Here, we document shelf‐edge scale clinoform sets which prograded through the entire width of an epicontinental marine basin (ca. 400 km), eventually encroaching onto the opposite basin flank, where they started to prograde upslope and landward, in defiance of gravity (“upslope‐climbing clinoforms”). The giant westward‐prograding Eridanos muddy shelf‐edge clinothem originated from the Baltic hinterland in the Oligocene and achieved maximum regression in the Early Pleistocene, on the UK Central Graben (CG) and Mid North Sea High (MNSH), after crossing the whole North Sea mesopelagic depocentre and causing near complete basin infill. Here we integrate well and seismic data through the MNSH and CG and examine the Eridanos final heyday and demise, identifying five clinothem complexes (A1, A2, A3, B and C) and six depositional sequence boundaries (SB1 to SB6) in the Miocene‐Recent section. Tectonic and climatic events drove the recent evolution of this system. Early Pleistocene climate cooling, in particular, resulted in a stepwise increase in sediment supply. This climaxed in the earliest Calabrian, following a likely Eburonian eustatic fall (=SB3) when the Eridanos clastic wedge was restructured from a 100–300 m thick compound shelf‐edge and delta system to a “hybrid” shelf‐edge delta at sequence boundary SB3 (ca. 1.75 Ma). In the ca. 40 kyr that followed SB3, a progradation rate peak (>1,000 m/kyr) is associated with clinoforms starting to accrete upslope, onto the east‐dipping slope between CG and MNSH. This “upslope‐climbing clinoform” phase was quickly followed by the maximum regression and final retreat of the Eridanos system in the Early Calabrian (=SB4), likely as the result of climate‐driven changes in the Baltic hinterland and/or delta auto‐retreat. To our knowledge, this contributions represents the first documentation of “upslope‐climbing clinoforms” recorded in the stratigraphic record.
Recent innovations in therapeutic endoscopy for pancreatobiliary diseases
Authors: Irisawa Atsushi , Miyoshi Hironao , Itoi Takao , Ryozawa Shomei , Kida Mitsuhiro , Inui Kazuo
Published: June 2019

The development of endoscopic treatment for pancreatobiliary diseases in recent years is remarkable. In addition to conventional transpapillary treatments under endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), new endoscopic ultrasound‐guided therapy is being developed and implemented. On the other hand, due to the development/improvement of various devices such as new metal stents, a new therapeutic strategy under ERCP is also advocated. The present review focuses on recent advances in the endoscopic treatment of pancreatic pseudocysts, walled‐off necrosis, malignant biliary strictures, and benign biliary/pancreatic duct strictures.
Can plant‐derived phytochemicals provide symptom relief for hair loss? A critical review
Authors: Daniels G. , Akram S. , Westgate G. E. , Tamburic S.
Published: June 2019

It is known that hair growth disorders and hair loss can cause personal distress and affect well‐being. Whilst clinical conditions remain a target for medical research, current research on hair follicle biology and hair growth control mechanisms also provides opportunities for a range of non‐medical and cosmetic interventions that have a modulating effect on the scalp and follicle function. Furthermore, an improvement of the hair fibre characteristics (cuticle structure, cortex size and integrity) could add to the overall positive visual effect of the hair array. Since phytochemicals are a popular choice because of their traditional appeal, this review provides a critical evaluation of the available evidence of their activity for hair benefit, excluding data obtained from animal tests, and offers recommendations on improving study validity and the robustness of data collection in pre‐clinical and clinical studies.
Cutaneous manifestations in chronic myeloid leukemia in chronic phase treated with imatinib
Authors: Khokar Abbas , Malik Uzma , Butt Ghazala , Naumeri Fatima
Published: June 2019

Objective

The aim of this study was to see the patterns of skin changes in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) in chronic phase treated with different doses of imatinib.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted in the Oncology Department of Jinnah Hospital, Lahore, over a period of 6 months. Patients aged 7–70 years diagnosed either by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) for BCR‐ABL or cytogenetics for Philadelphia (Ph) chromosomes and consuming different doses of imatinib for the treatment of CML were randomly selected. Skin manifestations were analyzed and recorded on a predesigned proforma by a dermatologist.

Results

A total of 132 patients were enrolled; 65 male (49.24%) and 67 female (50.75%). Periorbital edema was found in 48.5% of cases, and hyperpigmentaion and melasma were found in 76.5% of cases. Pruritus was diagnosed in 6.8% of cases, alopecia in 5.3% of cases, and photosensitivity in 43.9% of cases.

Conclusions

It was concluded that imatinib is associated with many adverse cutaneous side effects which should be overcome or reduced by either decreasing the duration of treatment with imatinib or switching to other treatment options.
Impact of deep oropharyngeal suctioning on microaspiration, ventilator events, and clinical outcomes: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Sole Mary Lou , Talbert Steven , Yan Xin , Penoyer Daleen , Mehta Devendra , Bennett Melody , Emery Kimberly Paige , Middleton Aurea , Deaton Lara , Abomoelak Bassam , Deb Chirajyoti
Published: June 2019

Aims

To evaluate a deep oropharyngeal suction intervention (NO‐ASPIRATE) in intubated patients on microaspiration, ventilator‐associated events and clinical outcomes.

Design

Prospective, two‐group, single‐blind, randomized clinical trial.

Methods

The study was conducted between 2014 ‐ 2017 in 513 participants enroled within 24 hr of intubation and randomized into NO‐ASPIRATE or usual care groups. Standard oral care was provided to all participants every 4 hr and deep oropharyngeal suctioning was added to the NO‐ASPIRATE group. Oral and tracheal specimens were obtained to quantify α‐amylase as an aspiration biomarker.

Results

Data were analysed for 410 study completers enrolled at least 36 hr: NO‐ASPIRATE (N = 206) and usual care (N = 204). Percent of tracheal specimens positive for α‐amylase, mean tracheal α‐amylase levels over time and ventilator‐associated events were not different between groups. The NO‐ASPIRATE group had a shorter hospital length of stay and a subgroup with moderate aspiration at baseline had significantly lower α‐amylase levels across time.

Conclusion

Hospital length of stay was shorter in the NO‐ASPIRATE group and a subgroup of intervention participants had lower α‐amylase across time. Delivery of standardized oral care to all participants may have been an intervention itself and possibly associated with the lack of significant findings for most outcomes.

Impact

This trial compared usual care to oral care with a deep suctioning intervention on microaspiration and ventilator‐associated events, as this has not been systematically studied. Further research on the usefulness of α‐amylase as an aspiration biomarker and the role of oral suctioning, especially for certain populations, is indicated.

Trial registration number: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02284178.
Non‐coding RNA involvement in the pathogenesis of diabetic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Zhang Wei , Xu Weiting , Feng Yu , Zhou Xiang
Published: June 2019

In recent years, the incidence of diabetes has been increasing rapidly, which seriously endangers human health. Diabetic cardiomyopathy, an important cardiovascular complication of diabetes, is characterized by myocardial fibrosis, ventricular remodelling and cardiac dysfunction. It has been documented that mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, inflammatory response, autophagy, apoptosis, diabetic microangiopathy and myocardial fibrosis are implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetic cardiomyopathy. With the development of molecular biology technology, accumulating evidence demonstrates that non‐coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are critically involved in the molecular mechanisms of diabetic cardiomyopathy. In this review, we summarize the pathological roles of three types of ncRNAs (microRNA, long ncRNA and circular RNA) in the progression of diabetic cardiomyopathy, which may provide valuable insights into the pathogenesis of diabetic cardiovascular complications.
Regional Integration Support: A Positive Externality toward Migration Attitudes
Authors: Böhmelt Tobias , Bove Vincenzo
Published: June 2019

Public opinion in favor of regional unification is usually seen as key for successfully implementing such integration projects. We argue that, as a positive externality, it can also foster support for migration. Focusing on the case of Europe, we use in‐group and out‐group dynamics as a starting point and claim that citizens who are more supportive of EU unification tend to have dual‐identity and more cosmopolitan attitudes, which is linked to more support for migration from outside the region. We employ hierarchical models using all existing rounds of the European Social Survey and complement this with a panel‐data analysis based on the German Longitudinal Election Data to exploit the individual‐level evolution of attitudes over time. The empirical findings strongly support the theoretical expectations, and they shed new light on our understanding of how public attitudes toward migration are formed.
Childhood sleep disturbances and white matter microstructure in preadolescence
Authors: Mulder Tessa A. , Kocevska Desana , Muetzel Ryan L. , Koopman‐Verhoeff Maria Elisabeth , Hillegers Manon H. , White Tonya , Tiemeier Henning
Published: June 2019

Background

Sleep problems occur in up to 30% of children and have been associated with adverse developmental outcomes. However, due to a lack of longitudinal neuroimaging studies, the neurobiological changes that may underlie some of these associations have remained unclear. This study explored the association between sleep problems during childhood and white matter (WM) microstructure in preadolescence.

Methods

Children from the population‐based birth cohort, the Generation R Study, who had repeatedly assessed sleep problems between 1.5 and 10 years of age and a MRI scan at age 10 (N = 2,449), were included. Mothers reported on their child's sleep problems using the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL 1.5–5) when children were 1.5, 3, and 6 years of age. At age 2, mothers completed very similar questions. At age 10, both children and their mothers reported on sleep problems. We used whole‐brain and tract‐specific fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD) values obtained through diffusion tensor imaging as measures of WM microstructure.

Results

Childhood sleep problems at 1.5, 2, and 6 years of age were associated with less WM microstructural integrity (approximately 0.05 SD lower global FA score per 1‐SD sleep problems). In repeated‐measures analyses, children with more sleep problems (per 1‐SD) at baseline had lower FA values at age 10 in particular in the corticospinal tract (−0.12 SD, 95% CI:‐0.20;‐0.05), the uncinate fasciculus (−0.12 SD, 95% CI:−0.19;−0.05), and the forceps major (‐0.11 SD, 95% CI:−0.18;−0.03), although effect estimates across the tracts did not differ substantially.

Conclusions

Childhood sleep disturbances are associated with less WM microstructural integrity in preadolescence. Our results show that early neurodevelopment may be a period of particular vulnerability to sleep problems. This study cannot demonstrate causality but suggests that preventive interventions addressing sleep problems should be further explored to test whether they impact adverse neurodevelopment.
Simethicone use during gastrointestinal endoscopy: Position statement of the Gastroenterological Society of Australia
Authors: Devereaux Benedict M , Taylor Andrew C F , Athan Eugene , Wallis David J , Brown Robyn R , Greig Sue M , Bailey Fiona K , Vickery Karen , Wardle Elizabeth , Jones Dianne M
Published: June 2019

Concern has been raised regarding the use of simethicone, a de‐foaming agent, during endoscopic procedures. Following reports of simethicone residue in endoscope channels despite high level disinfection, an endoscope manufacturer recommended that it not be used due to concerns of biofilm formation and a possible increased risk of microorganism transmission. However, a detailed mucosal assessment is essential in performing high‐standard endoscopic procedures. This is impaired by bubbles within the gastrointestinal lumen. The Gastroenterological Society of Australia's Infection Control in Endoscopy Guidelines (ICEG) Committee conducted a literature search utilizing the MEDLINE database. Further references were sourced from published paper bibliographies. Following a review of the available evidence, and drawing on extensive clinical experience, the multidisciplinary ICEG committee considered the risks and benefits of simethicone use in formulating four recommendations. Published reports have documented residual liquid or crystalline simethicone in endoscope channels after high level disinfection. There are no data confirming that simethicone can be cleared from channels by brushing. Multiple series report benefits of simethicone use during gastroscopy and colonoscopy in improving mucosal assessment, adenoma detection rate, and reducing procedure time. There are no published reports of adverse events related specifically to the use of simethicone, delivered either orally or via any endoscope channel. An assessment of the risks and benefits supports the continued use of simethicone during endoscopic procedures. Strict adherence to instrument reprocessing protocols is essential.
Association Between Postextubation Dysphagia and Long‐Term Mortality Among Critically Ill Older Adults
Authors: Regala Mark , Marvin Stevie , Ehlenbach William J.
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND

Dysphagia following extubation is common in intensive care unit (ICU) patients. Diagnosing postextubation dysphagia allows identification of patients who are at highest risk for aspiration and its associated adverse outcomes. Older adults are at an increased risk of postextubation dysphagia and its complications due to multiple comorbidities, a higher baseline risk of dysphagia, and increased risk of pneumonia.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to investigate the association between postextubation dysphagia and 1‐year mortality in older patients. Secondary outcomes included ICU and hospital lengths of stay, ICU readmission, and place of discharge.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study from January 1 to December 31, 2013. ICU patients, aged 65 years and older, who were successfully extubated and underwent a formal swallow evaluation by a speech and language pathologist (SLP) were included. Dysphagia was graded using a seven‐point scale, and those with at least mild‐moderate dysphagia were labeled as having clinically significant dysphagia.

RESULTS

Of 1075 patients who were screened, 359 were survivors, aged 65 years and older; and of these survivors, 111 had a swallow evaluation performed by an SLP after liberation from mechanical ventilation. Mean age was 73.8 years (SD = 7.0 years), and 41.4% had clinically significant dysphagia. In a multivariable regression model, there was no significant association between dysphagia and 1‐year mortality. Furthermore, there was no statistically significant difference in ICU or hospital length of stay, ICU readmission, or place of discharge of those with clinically significant dysphagia compared to those without.

CONCLUSIONS

Among mechanically ventilated ICU patients, aged 65 years and older, who underwent a swallow evaluation following extubation, dysphagia was not associated with mortality, ICU and hospital lengths of stay, ICU readmission, and place of discharge. Given conflicting evidence in the literature, larger prospective studies are needed to clarify whether postextubation dysphagia is associated with worse outcomes in older patients admitted to the ICU. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:1895–1901, 2019