bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding the webrooming phenomenon
Authors: Aw Eugene Cheng-Xi
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose and empirically test a model encompassing antecedents of webrooming, an emerging shopping behaviour in omnichannel retailing. This study delineates the impacts of shopping motivation, perceived channel-related benefits and costs on webrooming intention.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire-based survey was conducted using a purposive sampling technique. A total of 300 responses were collected, and data were analysed using Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modelling.

Findings

Shopping motivation, such as efficiency shopping and bargain hunting, negatively influenced webrooming intention. Immediate possession positively influenced webrooming intention. With regard to perceived costs of webrooming, purchase effort and expected price loss negatively influenced webrooming intention. An additional exploratory analysis uncovered the moderating role of efficiency shopping.

Originality/value

This study provides empirical evidence for the antecedents of webrooming intention and expands the understanding of this emerging yet largely unexplored cross-channel behaviour.
An empirical assessment of employer branding as a form of sport event sponsorship
Authors: Karjaluoto Heikki , Paakkonen Lasse
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to expand and test Backhaus and Tikoo’s (2004) employer branding (EB) conceptual framework from the perspective of internal EB in a sport event sponsorship context.

Design/methodology/approach

This study developed a set of hypotheses, which were tested in the context of a business-to-business multinational organization’s sport event sponsorship project. Empirical data were collected from 716 employees of the case company after the sponsorship project was complete.

Findings

The results support all the hypotheses and reveal that a sport event sponsorship project can act as a means to achieving EB goals in the investigated context.

Research limitations/implications

The sample of the study was limited to the existing personnel of one case company. The study measures the effects at a single point in time, thus the findings should be validated with longitudinal research design.

Practical implications

The results propose that companies can benefit from integrating sport sponsorship with internal EB. Practitioners are advised to create sponsorship projects that involve current employees effectively.

Originality/value

The study adds to the literature by being among the first empirical studies to have tested the effects of EB among current employees via a sponsorship project.
Study on laser sintering of pine/co-PES composites and the investment casting process
Authors: Zhang Hui , Bourell David , Guo Yanling , Zhang Xiaodong , Zhuang Yu , Yu Yueqiang , Jiang Kaiyi , Helal Wasim M.K.
Published: July 2019

Purpose

A pine/co-PES composite (PCPES composite) was proposed as the feedstock for powder bed fusion (laser sintering, LS). This paper aims to provide some necessary experimental data and the theoretical foundation for LS of pine/co-PES, especially for the application of using the laser-sintered pine/co-PES parts as complex structural patterns in investment casting.

Design/methodology/approach

The PCPES composites with different pine loadings were mixed mechanically. The composite’s preheating temperature and processing temperature during LS were determined experimentally based on the material’s thermal behavior. The effects of pine powder on the binding mechanism of PCPES composites were discussed through analyzing the microstructure of the laser-sintered parts’. Mechanical properties and dimensional precision of laser-sintered PCPES parts in different pine loadings were tested, and the parts’ mechanical properties were strengthened by wax-infiltration post-processing. The influence extents of process parameters on the mechanical properties of laser-sintered 20 Wt.% pine/co-PES parts were investigated using a 1/2 fractional factorials experiment.

Findings

20 Wt.% pine/co-PES is considered to be a promising wood-plastic composite for laser sintering. The relationship between mechanical strength of its laser-sintered parts and process parameters was built up using mathematical formulas. Experimental results show density, tensile strength, flexural strength and surface roughness of laser-sintered 20 Wt.% pine/co-PES parts are improved by 72.7-75.0%, 21.9-111.3%, 26.8-86.2%, 27.0-29.1% after post-process infiltration with a wax. A promising application of the wax-infiltrated laser-sintered parts is for investment casting cores and patterns.

Research limitations/implications

The proper process parameters and forming properties of laser-sintered parts are limited to the results of laser sintering experiments carried on using AFS 360 rapid prototyping device.

Originality/value

This investigation not only provides a new feedstock for laser sintering with the advantages of low cost and fabricability but also uses an advanced technique to produce personalized wood-plastic parts efficiently. Mathematical models between mechanical properties of laser-sintered PCPES parts and LS process parameters will guide the further LS experiments using the 20 Wt.% pine/co-PES composite. Besides, the laser-sintered PCPES parts after wax-infiltration post-processing are promising as complex structural patterns for use in investment casting.
Breaking a cycle of perceived failure: The process of making changes toward a more balanced lifestyle
Authors: Lund Kristine , Argentzell Elisabeth , Bejerholm Ulrika , Eklund Mona
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Balancing Everyday Life (BEL) is a new lifestyle intervention for mental health services users, developed to support meaningful engagement in daily activities and a balanced lifestyle. This study aimed at exploring the BEL participants’ process of making lifestyle changes.

Methods

This constructivist grounded theory study took place in Sweden from 2013–2017 and explored the processes of 19 BEL participants when making lifestyle changes. Data were collected through 29 interviews.

Results

A process of breaking a cycle of perceived failure and making changes toward a more balanced lifestyle was constructed, consisting of five categories: Going at it gently: change is an on‐going process; Support for progress, permission to fail; Prioritising and setting boundaries; Adjusting for a sustainable balance; and Caring for a valued self. Each category included a strategy for change as well as a related inner change. Strategies involved learning and trying techniques for making changes toward a more balanced lifestyle, whereas the personal changes often involved a more self‐compassionate approach and allowing oneself to utilise these techniques.

Conclusion

The results contribute to knowledge in the process of making lifestyle changes, specifically, how strategies for change and inner changes interact and can support personal recovery toward mental health. This knowledge could help to support clients in making personally meaningful changes toward a more balanced lifestyle as well as inform future research in the process of making change.
Sub‐optimal treatment of paediatric migraine in an emergency department: An observational study
Authors: Klim Sharon , Krieser David , Kelly Anne‐Maree
Published: July 2019

Objectives

To describe treatment of children presenting to an Australian ED with a final ED diagnosis of migraine.

Methods

Planned substudy of a retrospective cohort study of the epidemiology of headache in children was done. Primary outcome of interest was treatment administered in the ED.

Results

Thirty‐five children were studied. The most commonly used medications were non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs, paracetamol and ondansetron. Specific antimigraine therapy was used uncommonly. Fourteen percent of children received an opiate.

Conclusion

Treatment of migraine in children was not consistent with the available evidence regarding agents' relative effectiveness. The use of opiates is concerningly high.
Performance of the revised 2016 fibromyalgia diagnostic criteria in Korean patients with fibromyalgia
Authors: Kang Ji‐Hyoun , An Minjeong , Choi Sung‐Eun , Xu Haimuzi , Park Dong‐Jin , Lee Jung‐Kil , Lee Shin‐Seok
Published: July 2019

Aim

Recently, the revised 2016 version of the 2010/2011 fibromyalgia (FM) criteria was released. No study has yet assessed whether the 2016 criteria perform better than the previous criteria. Therefore, we validated a Korean version of the revised FM criteria and explored whether they were better than the previous criteria in terms of diagnostic accuracy.

Methods

We enrolled 86 FM patients and 89 patients with various rheumatological disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, osteoarthritis, and myofascial pain syndrome. All patients were invited to complete a questionnaire that included the revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQ), the EuroQol five‐dimensional questionnaire (EQ‐5D), and the Multidimensional Health Assessment Questionnaire (MD‐HAQ).

Results

The test‐retest reliability of the revised criteria was assessed in 30 patients after 2 weeks; the Spearman coefficient ranged from 0.616 to 0.910 and the Cronbach's alpha was 0.942 (95% CI: 0.930‐0.964). The revised criteria correlated significantly with the revised FIQ score (P < .001), the EQ‐5D score (P < .001), and the MD‐HAQ score (P < .001). Using the revised criteria, FM was diagnosed in 94.2% of patients with a prior diagnosis of FM, and in 10.1% of those with other rheumatological disorders. The sensitivity and specificity of the revised criteria were 93.1% and 90.7%, respectively. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the revised criteria was 0.966, higher than those of the 1990, 2010, and 2011 criteria.

Conclusion

The revised criteria are reliable and valid when used to diagnose patients with FM, and are better than the previous criteria.
Missense mutation in DNAJB13 gene correlated with male fertility in asthenozoospermia
Authors: Li W. N. , Zhu L. , Jia M. M. , Yin S. L. , Lu G. X. , Liu G.
Published: July 2019

Background

The most common type of male infertility is asthenospermia. We cloned DnaJ heat shock protein family member B13 (Dnajb13/DNAJB13), a type II HSP40 family member that is highly expressed in the testis. DNAJB13 plays a crucial role in sperm flagellar function.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate whether a correlation exists between DNAJB13 and low sperm motility in infertile men.

Materials and methods

In the present study, we performed a mutation screening of the DNAJB13 gene in 92 idiopathic asthenozoospermia patients and 200 men with normal fertility. Additionally, we used immunoelectron microscopy, co‐immunoprecipitation, mass spectrometric detection, indirect immunofluorescence assay, transmission electron microscopy studies, isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation, and multiple reaction monitoring studies to analyze changes in DNAJB13 protein.

Results

A novel c.106T>C mutation of DNAJB13 was present in nearly 10% (9/92) of idiopathic asthenozoospermia patients and was absent in 200 fertile men. A computer‐assisted sperm analyzer and transmission electron microscopy analysis using samples from 9 patients with DNAJB13 mutations demonstrated that most spermatozoa were immotile due to sperm tail defects. Multiple reaction monitoring results indicated that DNAJB13 protein levels were reduced after gene mutation. We achieved a pregnancy rate of 100% in 8 patients with DNAJB13 mutations using ICSI.

Discussion and conclusion

The DNAJB13 heterozygous variant may affect fertility. ICSI can help these patients with low fertility to father children.
Oral immunization of mice with Lactococcus lactis expressing Shiga toxin truncate confers enhanced protection against Shiga toxins of Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Shigella dysenteriae
Authors: Sreerohini Sagi , Balakrishna Konduru , Parida Manmohan
Published: July 2019

Regardless of the communal impact of Shiga toxins, till today neither a specific treatment nor licensed vaccine is available. Lactococcus lactis (L. lactis), generally regarded as safe organism, is well known to provide a valuable approach regarding the oral delivery of vaccines. This study was undertaken to evaluate the protective efficacy of Stx2a1 expressed in nisin‐inducible L. lactis, against Shiga toxins (Stx1, Stx2) in mouse model. Oral immunization of BALB/c mice with LL‐Stx2a1 elicited significant serum antibody titer with elevated fecal and serum IgA, along with minimized intestinal and kidney damage resulting in survival of immunized animals at 84% and 100% when challenged with 10 × LD50 of Escherichia coli O157 and Shigella dysenteriae toxins, respectively. HeLa cells incubated with immune sera and toxin mixture revealed high neutralizing capacity with 90% cell survivability against both the toxins. Mice immunized passively with both toxins and antibody mixture survived the observation period of 15 days, and the controls administered with sham sera and toxins were succumbed to death within 3 days. Our results revealed protective efficacy and toxin neutralization ability of LL‐Stx2a1, proposing it as an oral vaccine candidate against Shiga toxicity mediated by E. coli O157 and S. dysenteriae.
Review article: diagnosis and management of intestinal failure‐associated liver disease in adults
Authors: Bond Ashley , Huijbers Angelique , Pironi Loris , Schneider Stephane M. , Wanten Geert , Lal Simon
Published: July 2019

Background

Hepatic disturbances in the context of intestinal failure and parenteral nutrition (PN) are frequently encountered and carry a significant burden of morbidity and sometimes mortality. The term intestinal failure‐associated liver disease (IFALD) refers to liver injury due to intestinal failure and associated PN, in the absence of another evident cause of liver disease, encompassing a spectrum of conditions from deranged liver enzymes, steatosis/ steatohepatitis, cholestasis as well as progressive fibrosis, cirrhosis and end‐stage liver disease.

Aims

To present an up to date perspective on the diagnosis/definition, aetiologies and subsequent management of IFALD and to explore future consideration for the condition, including pharmacological therapies

Results

In adults using long‐term PN for benign chronic intestinal failure, 1%‐4% of all deaths are attributed to IFALD. The aetiology of IFALD is multifactorial and can be broadly divided into nutritional factors (eg lipid emulsion type) and patient‐related factors (eg remaining bowel anatomy). Given its multifaceted aetiology, the management of IFALD requires clinicians to investigate a number of factors simultaneously. Patients with progressive liver disease should be considered for combined liver‐intestine transplantation, although multivisceral grafts have a worse prognosis. However, there is no established non‐invasive method to identify progressive IFALD such that liver biopsy, where appropriate, remains the gold standard.

Conclusion

A widely accepted definition of IFALD would aid in diagnosis, monitoring and subsequent management. Management can be complex with a number of factors to consider. In the future, dedicated pharmacological interventions may become more prominent in the management of IFALD.
A general framework for modeling population abundance data
Authors: Besbeas Panagiotis , Morgan Byron J. T.
Published: July 2019

Time‐series data resulting from surveying wild animals are often described using state‐space population dynamics models, in particular with Gompertz, Beverton‐Holt, or Moran‐Ricker latent processes. We show how hidden Markov model methodology provides a flexible framework for fitting a wide range of models to such data. This general approach makes it possible to model abundance on the natural or log scale, include multiple observations at each sampling occasion and compare alternative models using information criteria. It also easily accommodates unequal sampling time intervals, should that possibility occur, and allows testing for density dependence using the bootstrap. The paper is illustrated by replicated time series of red kangaroo abundances, and a univariate time series of ibex counts which are an order of magnitude larger. In the analyses carried out, we fit different latent process and observation models using the hidden Markov framework. Results are robust with regard to the necessary discretization of the state variable. We find no effective difference between the three latent models of the paper in terms of maximized likelihood value for the two applications presented, and also others analyzed. Simulations suggest that ecological time series are not sufficiently informative to distinguish between alternative latent processes for modeling population survey data when data do not indicate strong density dependence.
The Dread of Falling and Dissolving: Further Thoughts
Authors: Schellekes Alina
Published: July 2019

This paper aims to expand our thinking about and understanding of two very primitive anxieties that are prominent in various primitive mental states in general and in disorders found along the autistic spectrum, in particular: the fear of falling and the dread of self‐dissolution. These anxieties are illustrated through two personal dreams of the author, two clinical cases, various art works and Beckett's short story ‘The expelled’ (1946). Theoretical developments in psychoanalytic theories for understanding these anxieties are presented and discussed, with the aim to clarify the matrix of object relations specific to each of these two anxieties.
Recalculating route: dispersal constraints will drive the redistribution of Amazon primates in the Anthropocene
Authors: Sales Lilian Patrícia , Ribeiro Bruno R. , Pires Mathias M. , Chapman Colin A. , Loyola Rafael
Published: July 2019

Climate change will redistribute the global biodiversity in the Anthropocene. As climates change, species might move from one place to another, due to local extinctions and colonization of new environments. However, the existence of permeable migratory routes precedes faunal migrations in fragmented landscapes. Here, we investigate how dispersal will affect the outcome of climate change on the distribution of Amazon's primate species.

We modeled the distribution of 80 Amazon primate species, using ecological niche models, and projected their potential distribution on scenarios of climate change. Then, we imposed landscape restrictions to primate dispersal, derived from a natural biogeographical barrier to primates (the main tributaries of the Amazon river) and an anthropogenic constraint to the migration of many canopy‐dependent animals (deforested areas). We also highlighted potential conflict zones, i.e. regions of high migration potential but predicted to be deforested.

Species response to climate change varied across dispersal limitation scenarios. If species could occupy all newly suitable climate, almost 70% of species could expand ranges. Including dispersal barriers (natural and anthropogenic), however, led to range expansion in only less than 20% of the studied species. When species were not allowed to migrate, all of them lost an average of 90% of the suitable area, suggesting that climate may become unsuitable within their present distributions.

All Amazon primate species may need to move as climate changes to avoid deleterious effects of exposure to non‐analog climates. The effect of climate change on the distribution of Amazon primates will ultimately depend on whether landscape permeability will allow climate‐driven faunal migrations. The network of protected areas in the Amazon could work as ‘stepping stones’ but most are outside important migratory routes. Therefore, protecting important dispersal corridors is foremost to allow effective migrations of the Amazon fauna in face of climate change and deforestation.
Susceptibility of Coulter pine (Pinus coulteri) to western dwarf mistletoe (Arceuthobium campylopodum) in southern California
Authors: Mathiasen Robert L.
Published: July 2019

The susceptibility of Coulter pine (Pinus coulteri) to western dwarf mistletoe (Arceuthobium campylopodum) was evaluated in southern California. Eight stands infested with western dwarf mistletoe and dominated by Coulter and Jeffrey pines (Pinus jeffreyi) were sampled. Infection of Coulter pine was evaluated using circular plots established around large, severely infected Jeffrey pines and with rectangular transects. A total of 25 plots and 10 transects were sampled. In each plot and transect, live trees > 5 cm in diameter at breast height (1.4 m above the ground) were assigned a dwarf mistletoe rating (6‐class system). Nearly 600 Jeffrey pines and more than 400 Coulter pines were evaluated. Infection of Jeffrey and Coulter pines in the plots and transects averaged 96% and 97%, respectively. These data indicate that Coulter pine should be classified as a principal host of WDM and not as a secondary host as previously reported.
Role of virological serum markers in patients with both hepatitis B virus infection and diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Zhou Xiang , Wuchter Patrick , Egerer Gerlinde , Kriegsmann Mark , Mataityte Aiste , Koelsche Christian , Witzens‐Harig Mathias , Kriegsmann Katharina
Published: July 2019

Background

Causality between hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) was reported in various studies. However, the implication of different virological serum markers of HBV infection in patients with both HBV infection and DLBCL is not fully understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of HBV markers on overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) in patients with both HBV infection and DLBCL.

Methods

In this study, patients (n = 40) diagnosed with both HBV infection and DLBCL were identified between 2000 and 2017. Six patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and/or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) co‐infection were excluded from this study. We retrospectively analyzed patients’ demographic characteristics, treatment, and the prognostic impact of different HBV markers at first diagnosis of DLBCL (HBsAg, anti‐HBs, HBeAg, anti‐HBe, and HBV‐DNA) on OS and PFS.

Results

The majority of patients (n = 21, 62%) had advanced disease stage (III/IV) at diagnosis. In the first‐line therapy, 24 patients (70%) were treated with R‐CHOP regimen (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, hydroxydaunorubicin, vincristine, and prednisolone). HBeAg positive patients had a trend toward inferior OS and PFS compared with HBeAg negative patients. Anti‐HBe positive patients had a statistically significant better OS and PFS compared with anti‐HBe negative group (both P < .0001). Viremia with HBV‐DNA ≥ 2 × 107 IU/L had a significant negative impact on OS and PFS (both P < .0001).

Conclusion

High activity of viral replication is associated with a poor survival outcome of patients with both HBV infection and DLBCL.
Training Parents to Create and Implement Social Stories™: Promoting Social Competence in Children Without Disabilities
Authors: Gullón‐Rivera Angel L. , Millar Robin , Flemmings Shelee‐Ann
Published: July 2019

Objective

To examine the feasibility and benefits of a parent training on using Social Stories™ (SS).

Background

SS have been widely used as an effective approach to help children improve social understanding, particularly in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). However, efforts to train parents to use SS have been limited, particularly with children without ASD displaying behavioral challenges.

Method

SS training and implementation were rooted in the guidelines established by the developer of SS, Carol Gray. A convenience sample of 19 children and their parents participated in the study, using a single‐case design (ABAB) with each family.

Results

The results provide evidence that parents can be effectively coached on the creation and implementation of SS. The results indicated that using SS reduced disruptive behaviors and increased constructive social skills in 15 of the 19 cases tested (79%).

Conclusion

The study provides support for the benefits of teaching parents SS to address specific challenging behaviors. Although more work needs to be done, these findings add to the discussion on the feasibility of SS with children without ASD.

Implications

The findings provide further support for a link between addressing perspective‐taking skills and behavioral regulations. Specifically, the study expands existing literature on the importance of using narrative to help children improve social understanding. Despite study limitations, the results indicate that the SS approach can be useful to parents and other caregivers for addressing immediate challenging behaviors with children who do not have ASD.
Pilot Study of Injection of OnabotulinumtoxinA Toward the Sphenopalatine Ganglion for the Treatment of Classical Trigeminal Neuralgia
Authors: Crespi Joan , Bratbak Daniel , Dodick David W. , Matharu Manjit , Jamtøy Kent Are , Tronvik Erling
Published: July 2019

Background

The sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) has previously been targeted in trigeminal neuralgia (TN), but its role in this condition has not been established.

Objective

To investigate the safety of injecting onabotulinumtoxinA (BTA) toward the SPG using the MultiGuide® in 10 patients with refractory classical TN, and collect preliminary efficacy data.

Methods

Twenty‐five international units (IU) of BTA were injected toward the SPG in a prospective, open‐label study in 10 patients with refractory classical TN. All patients were recruited and treated on an out‐patient basis at St. Olav's University Hospital in Trondheim (Norway). Primary outcome: adverse events (AEs). Primary efficacy outcome: number of TN attacks at weeks 5‐8 after injection compared to baseline. A treatment responder was predefined as at least 50% reduction in the median number of attacks per day between baseline and weeks 5‐8. Other efficacy outcomes were intensity of attacks (numeric rating scale, 0 to 10) and functional level (1 to 4; 1 best and 4 worst) at weeks 5‐8 after injection compared to baseline. Percentage of the day with concomitant persistent pain was registered at baseline and at weeks 1‐4, 6, 8, and 12 after injection. Patient global impression of change (PGIC) was ascertained at month 3.

Results

For the primary endpoint, we analyzed data for all 10 patients. For efficacy outcomes we analyzed data for 9 patients (1 patient violated protocol). We registered 13 AEs, none of which were serious. The median number of TN attacks during the 4‐week baseline and weeks 5‐8 after injection was 5.5 (range: 1.0‐51.5) and 5 (range: 0‐225.0), respectively (P = .401). Four patients were treatment responders. The median intensity of attacks at baseline and weeks 5‐8 after injection was 6 (range: 3.0‐8.5) and 3 (range: 0.0‐9.0) respectively (P = .024). The median functional level at baseline was 2 (range: 1.0‐3.3) and at month 2, 1 (range 1.0‐4.0; P = .750). Median percentage of the day with concomitant persistent pain was 75% (minimum 37.5%, maximum 100%) at baseline and 18.75% (minimum 0%, maximum 100%) at week 8 (P = .023).

Conclusions

Injection of BTA toward the SPG using the MultiGuide® in patients with TN appears to be safe and well tolerated. This study was negative for the main efficacy endpoint (reduction in the number of attacks from baseline to weeks 5‐8). Further studies examining the role of the SPG in TN are necessary.
Models for the two‐dimensional rectangular single large placement problem with guillotine cuts and constrained pattern
Authors: Martin Mateus , Birgin Ernesto G. , Lobato Rafael D. , Morabito Reinaldo , Munari Pedro
Published: July 2019

In this paper, we address the constrained two‐dimensional rectangular guillotine single large placement problem (2D_R_CG_SLOPP). This problem involves cutting a rectangular object to produce smaller rectangular items from orthogonal guillotine cuts. In addition, there is an upper limit on the number of copies that can be produced of each item type. To model this problem, we propose a new pseudopolynomial integer nonlinear programming (INLP) formulation and obtain an equivalent integer linear programming (ILP) formulation from it. Additionally, we developed a procedure to reduce the numbers of variables and constraints of the integer linear programming (ILP) formulation, without loss of optimality. From the ILP formulation, we derive two new pseudopolynomial models for particular cases of the 2D_R_CG_SLOPP, which consider only two‐staged or one‐group patterns. Finally, as a specific solution method for the 2D_R_CG_SLOPP, we apply Benders decomposition to the proposed ILP formulation and develop a branch‐and‐Benders‐cut algorithm. All proposed approaches are evaluated through computational experiments using benchmark instances and compared with other formulations available in the literature. The results show that the new formulations are appropriate in scenarios characterized by few item types that are large with respect to the object's dimensions.
Hand rearing a Linné’s two‐toed sloth Choloepus didactylus at ZSL London Zoo
Authors: Kelleher K.‐A. , Ferguson A.
Published: July 2019

There is an increasing emphasis on the importance of ensuring the long‐term viability of taxa maintained in zoological collections. The captive population of Linné’s two‐toed sloth Choloepus didactylus is monitored and managed in European and American breeding programmes. However, although breeding success is increasing the population is still not sustainable. Hand rearing is one option in the ‘toolbox’ of measures that can be used to assist with achieving integrated conservation goals, despite being challenging and labour intensive. This paper describes the enforced, but successful, hand rearing of a two‐toed sloth from 26 days of age at ZSL London Zoo, UK. The feeding protocol, behaviour and development are reported, and growth‐rate data are presented. While presenting data for only one individual, the experience has provided practical information about hand‐rearing practice that may inform future interventions in the management of ex situ populations, and assist with rescue and rehabilitation efforts for this and related species in the field. This species is classified as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) Red List; however, these sloths are threatened by habitat loss. Two of the six extant species of sloths are assessed as threatened; Pygmy three‐toed sloth Bradypus pygmaeus (Critically Endangered) and the Maned three‐toed sloth Bradypus torquatus (Vulnerable).
Delirium After Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation Under General Anesthesia: Incidence, Predictors, and Relation to Long‐Term Survival
Authors: van der Wulp Kees , van Wely Marleen , van Heijningen Lars , van Bakel Bram , Schoon Yvonne , Verkroost Michel , Gehlmann Helmut , Van Garsse Leen , Vart Priya , Kievit Peter , Rikkert Marcel Olde , Morshuis Wim , van Royen Niels
Published: July 2019

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Prospectively collected data on postoperative delirium (POD) after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) are scarce. The aim of this study was to report the incidence and risk factors of delirium after TAVI under general anesthesia and to assess the association of POD with clinical outcome and short‐ and long‐term survival.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

SETTING

Academic medical center.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 703 subsequent patients undergoing TAVI under general anesthesia between 2008 and 2017.

MEASUREMENTS

Delirium was assessed according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM‐IV), criteria. Outcomes were postprocedural clinical outcome and short‐ and long‐term survival (30 days and 5 years, respectively).

RESULTS

POD was observed in 16.5% (116/703), was the strongest independent predictor of long‐term mortality (hazard ratio = 1.91; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.36‐2.70), and was associated with impaired 30‐day and 5‐year survival (92.2% vs 96.8% [P = .025] and 40.0% vs 50.0% [P = .007], respectively). Stroke and new onset of atrial fibrillation were more often observed in delirious patients (6.9% vs 1.9% and 12.1% vs 5.1%, respectively). Strongest independent predictors of POD were prior delirium (odds ratio [OR] = 2.56; 95% CI = 1.52‐4.31) and aortic valve area less than 0.75 cm2 (OR = 2.39; 95% CI = 1.53‐3.74).

CONCLUSION

One in six patients experienced POD after TAVI under general anesthesia. POD was the strongest predictor of long‐term mortality and was associated with impaired short‐ and long‐term survival. Prior delirium and a more calcified aortic valve were the strongest independent predictors of POD. J Am Geriatr Soc 67:2325–2330, 2019
Aspartame supplementation in starter accelerates small intestinal epithelial cell cycle and stimulates secretion of glucagon‐like peptide‐2 in pre‐weaned lambs
Authors: Sun Daming , Liu Lixiang , Mao Shengyong , Zhu Weiyun , Liu Junhua
Published: July 2019

The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that aspartame supplementation in starter diet accelerates small intestinal cell cycle by stimulating secretion and expression of glucagon‐like peptide −2 (GLP‐2) in pre‐weaned lambs using animal and cell culture experiments. In vivo, twelve 14‐day‐old lambs were selected and allocated randomly to two groups; one was treated with plain starter diet (Con, n = 6) and the other was treated with starter supplemented with 200 mg of aspartame/kg starter (APM, n = 6). Results showed that the lambs received APM treatment for 35 d had higher (p < .05) GLP‐2 concentration in the plasma and greater jejunum weight/live body weight (BW) and jejunal crypt depth. Furthermore, APM treatment significantly upregulated (p < .05) the mRNA expression of cyclin D1 in duodenum; and cyclin A2, cyclin D1, cyclin‐dependent kinases 6 (CDK6) in jejunum; and cyclin A2, cyclin D1, CDK4 in ileum. Moreover, APM treatment increased (p < .05) the mRNA expression of glucagon (GCG), insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐1) in the jejunum and ileum and mRNA expression of GLP‐2 receptor (GLP‐2R) in the jejunum. In vitro, when jejunal cells were treated with GLP‐2 for 2 hr, the 3‐(4,5‐dimethyl‐2‐thiazolyl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐2‐H‐tetrazolium bromide (MTT) OD, IGF‐1 concentration, and the mRNA expression of IGF‐1, cyclin D1 and CDK6 were increased (p < .05). Furthermore, IGF‐1 receptor (IGF‐1R) inhibitor decreased (p < .05) the mRNA expression of IGF‐1, cyclin A2, cyclin D1 and CDK6 in GLP‐2 treatment jejunal cells. These results suggest that aspartame supplementation in starter accelerates small intestinal cell cycle that may, in part, be related to stimulate secretion and expression of GLP‐2 in pre‐weaning lambs. Furthermore, GLP‐2 can indirectly promote the proliferation of jejunal cells mainly through the IGF‐1 pathway. These findings provide new insights into nutritional interventions that promote the development of small intestines in young ruminants.
Genome evolution and host‐microbiome shifts correspond with intraspecific niche divergence within harmful algal bloom‐forming Microcystis aeruginosa
Authors: Jackrel Sara L. , White Jeffrey D. , Evans Jacob T. , Buffin Kyle , Hayden Kristen , Sarnelle Orlando , Denef Vincent J.
Published: July 2019

Intraspecific niche divergence is an important driver of species range, population abundance and impacts on ecosystem functions. Genetic changes are the primary focus when studying intraspecific divergence; however, the role of ecological interactions, particularly host‐microbiome symbioses, is receiving increased attention. The relative importance of these evolutionary and ecological mechanisms has seen only limited evaluation. To address this question, we used Microcystis aeruginosa, the globally distributed cyanobacterium that dominates freshwater harmful algal blooms. These blooms have been increasing in occurrence and intensity worldwide, causing major economic and ecological damages. We evaluated 46 isolates of M. aeruginosa and their microbiomes, collected from 14 lakes in Michigan, USA, that vary over 20‐fold in phosphorus levels, the primary limiting nutrient in freshwater systems. Genomes of M. aeruginosa diverged along this phosphorus gradient in genomic architecture and protein functions. Fitness in low‐phosphorus lakes corresponded with additional shifts within M. aeruginosa including genome‐wide reductions in nitrogen use, an expansion of phosphorus assimilation genes and an alternative life history strategy of nonclonal colony formation. In addition to host shifts, despite culturing in common‐garden conditions, host‐microbiomes diverged along the gradient in taxonomy, but converged in function with evidence of metabolic interdependence between the host and its microbiome. Divergence corresponded with a physiological trade‐off between fitness in low‐phosphorus environments and growth rate in phosphorus‐rich conditions. Co‐occurrence of genotypes adapted to different nutrient environments in phosphorus‐rich lakes may have critical implications for understanding how M. aeruginosa blooms persist after initial nutrient depletion. Ultimately, we demonstrate that the intertwined effects of genome evolution, host life history strategy and ecological interactions between a host and its microbiome correspond with an intraspecific niche shift with important implications for whole ecosystem function.
Oil price, trade openness, current account balances and the official exchange rate in Nigeria
Authors: Longe Adedayo Emmanuel , Muhammad Shehu , Ajayi Patricia Iyore , Omitogun Olawunmi
Published: July 2019

Since a larger percentage of government revenue are generated from crude oil trade, the fluctuations in the price of oil have always been influencing the budget financing in Nigeria. Also, investment decisions and trade cost are been influenced by the status of the oil price. The study investigates the relationship between oil price, trade openness, current account balances and official exchange rate in Nigeria using secondary data from 1980 through 2016. The non‐linear auto‐regressive distributed lag (NARDL) was used to analyse the short‐run and long‐run link between the variables. From the findings, it was established that in the short run and long run, trade openness negatively impacts on the official exchange rate of naira to dollar in Nigeria. The consumer price index positively and significantly influences exchange rate value in Nigeria in the short run and long run. Positive changes in oil price impacted negatively on official exchange rate in the short run, but in the long run had a positive impact. Negative changes in the price of oil have a positive insignificant and negative significant impact on official exchange rate in the short run and long run, respectively. The error correction result verified that the variables (trade openness, current account, oil price and consumer price index) correct 91 per cent deviations of exchange rate from short‐run equilibrium back to equilibrium in the long run. The study concludes that trade policy in Nigeria is not in favourable direction of official exchange rate in Nigeria. Also, positive changes in oil price and current account balances are strong determinants of the Nigerian official exchange rate of naira to dollar in the long run. Therefore, it is recommended that trade policies should be reviewed in Nigeria towards enhancing other sectors that would add more value to naira.
Intersectionality in Action: Gun Ownership and Women's Political Participation
Authors: Middlewood Alexandra , Joslyn Mark R. , Haider‐Markel Donald P.
Published: July 2019

Objective

We hypothesize that gun ownership among women is an important determinant of political engagement.

Methods

First, using 2013 Pew Research Center data, we examine different types of political participation concerning gun policy. Next, we examine data from a survey experiment embedded in a unique June 2017 national survey of nearly 900 gun owners. Finally, we analyze 2016 American National Election Studies data of behavioral and cognitive forms of political participation.

Results

Gun‐owning women exhibit levels of political participation about gun policy and a greater willingness to engage in political discussions about gun control than nonowning women. We also find greater levels of political engagement among gun‐owning women on measures of participation not related to gun policy.

Conclusion

We discuss the implications of our findings for research on political participation as well as for gun policy.
Individual and household exposures associated with cholera transmission in case–control studies: a systematic review
Authors: Phelps Matthew D. , Simonsen Lone , Jensen Peter K. M.
Published: July 2019

Objective

Uncertainty persists regarding cholera transmission routes. We conducted a structured review of case–control studies on cholera transmission and provide a qualitative summary of reported exposures in order to inform public health efforts and future cholera research.

Methods

We searched two electronic databases for published case–control studies that investigated risk factors for cholera and included any publications that did not match our exclusion criteria. From the included studies, we grouped exposures using two parameters, whether transmission domain was public or domestic, and also on the vehicle of transmission. We extracted data on study location, method of case and control inclusion, type of statistical analysis performed and which exposures were included. Additionally, two parallel subgroup analyses were performed. The first included the subgroup of all studies that used culture‐confirmed cholera cases, and the second included the subgroup of all studies employing a multivariate analysis. In the second analysis, we calculated the population attributable risk (PAR).

Results

Our search yielded 2347 peer‐reviewed publications, of which 65 did not match our exclusion criteria, comprising 69 individual studies. Water‐based exposures were investigated in 97% of these studies, of which 70% found a significant association with cholera infection. Food‐based exposures were investigated in 75% of studies, of which 63% found a significant association with risk of cholera infection. Close personal contact with cholera cases was investigated in 30% of studies, of which 52% found a significant association with risk of cholera infection. Hygiene‐related exposures were investigated in 51% of studies, of which 63% found a significant association with cholera transmission. Among studies that examined at least one exposure related to the domestic domain, 76% found a significant association with cholera infection vs. 71% of studies investigating at least one public domain exposure. The subgroup analyses produced similar results.

Conclusions

Despite strong evidence for cholera transmission via foodborne‐, hygiene‐, waterborne‐ and close personal contact‐related pathways in both domestic and public domains, we found that non‐waterborne‐related factors are understudied. Future cholera case–control studies would benefit from investigating all transmission vehicles and transmission domains.
Acute colonic pseudo‐obstruction after caesarean section: a review and recommended management algorithm
Authors: Hughes Alice E , Smart Neil J , Daniels Ian R
Published: July 2019

Key content

Acute colonic pseudo‐obstruction (ACPO), also known as Ogilvie's syndrome, is a rare but serious complication that may occur after caesarean section.

ACPO typically manifests with progressive abdominal distension and discomfort within 48 hours of caesarean section and may be accompanied by electrolyte disturbances and rising levels of C‐reactive protein.

If identified early, ACPO can usually be managed conservatively or with neostigmine; even in cases with significant caecal dilatation without evidence of perforation, colonoscopy‐guided decompression can be successful.

Worsening abdominal distension, tenderness, or signs of perforation or sepsis imply that laparotomy is necessary.

The incidence of laparotomy in reported cases after caesarean section is high, but overall mortality is low; early recognition and appropriate treatment are vital for a good outcome.

Learning objectives

To describe the incidence, risk factors and pathophysiology of ACPO following caesarean section.

To recognise the clinical presentation of ACPO, including symptoms, signs, results from investigations and potential short‐term and long‐term complications.

To understand the indications for conservative, medical, colonoscopic and surgical intervention.
Optic nerve hypoplasia in miniature poodle dogs: A preliminary genetic and candidate gene association study
Authors: Becker Doreen , Niggel Jessica K. , Pearce‐Kelling Sue , Riis Ronald C. , Aguirre Gustavo D.
Published: July 2019

Objective

To conduct a genetic and candidate gene association study with samples from phenotype‐ascertained dogs to identify putative disease‐associated gene/mutation for optic nerve hypoplasia (ONH) in the miniature poodle.

Animals studied

A total of 43 miniature poodles from the United States and Europe, nine affected bilaterally with ONH, were included in the study. Pedigree information was recorded.

Procedures

A pedigree including all animals studied was assembled. Twenty‐one genes typically expressed in ganglion cells or that are associated with ocular malformations and have a critical function in eye and neural retina development were selected. Exons and exon‐intron boundaries of eight genes were sequenced in four ONH cases and four controls. Furthermore, cases and controls were genotyped with the Illumina CanineHD BeadChip to obtain genotypes for 13 additional candidate genes for haplotype association.

Results

The assembled pedigree connected all ONH‐affected dogs to a possible common founder. Identified variants and haplotypes of the tested candidate genes did not segregate with the phenotype using Identity by Descent approach assuming autosomal recessive inheritance with variable but yet unknown penetrance.

Conclusions

Pedigree analysis did not reveal the inheritance pattern. There is no evidence of association of the evaluated candidate genes with ONH; therefore, the screened candidate genes can provisionally be ruled out as causally associated with the disease.