bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safety and Cost-effectiveness of Outpatient Administration of High-dose Chemotherapy in Children With Ewing Sarcoma
Authors: Elshahoubi Alya , Alnassan Anwar , Sultan Iyad
Published: January 2019

Background:

Children with Ewing sarcoma (ES) are subjected to an interval-compressed regimen with cycles of chemotherapy given every 2 weeks, which is nowadays considered to be the standard of care for individuals with such a case. We developed institutional clinical practice guidelines (CPG) applying outpatient administration in regard to this regimen. This study intends to evaluate our institutional experience with this regimen.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective review of patients with ES who were treated using interval-compressed protocol of 14 cycles consisting of alternating cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine (VDC) and ifosfamide, etoposide (IE) with a maximum dose of doxorubicin of 375 mg/m2. Cycles were subsequently followed by G-CSF administration until count recovery was recorded. Patients treated using our guidelines from June 2013 to June 2015 were eligible for these guidelines. Patients younger than 3 years at the time of diagnosis were not eligible for outpatient administration of chemotherapy.

Results:

In total 12 patients with localized ES or lung-only metastasis were eligible. By the time of analysis, 153 cycles were administered to these patients. Eight cycles for 6 patients were administered on an inpatient basis while the rest (N=145) were administered in the outpatient chemotherapy unit. The median number of cycles per patient were 14 (with a range of 5 to 14). Ninety cycles (59%) were administered on time per CPG. The median interval between these cycles were 16 days (range, 12 to 36 days). The median interval between induction and consolidation cycles were 14 and 17 days, respectively. Neutropenia was reported at the time of each next cycle for 12 cycles. Transient gross hematuria was reported in 1 patient only. In addition, a cost saving of 21% (approximately US$ 4500) were achieved per patient.

Conclusions:

Our study showed that the outpatient administration of interval-compressed regimen is safe and associated with acceptable adherence to this regimen.
Presentation of Compound Heterozygous Hemoglobin Constant Spring and Hemoglobin Pakse in Neonates
Authors: Komvilaisak Patcharee , Jetsrisuparb Arunee , Fucharoen Goonnapa , Komwilaisak Ratana , Jirapradittha Junya , Kiatchoosakun Pakaphan
Published: January 2019

Background:

Mutations causing α thalassemia are divided into deletion and nondeletion groups. In the nondeletion group, hemoglobin constant spring (Hb CS) and hemoglobin Pakse (Hb Pakse) are both caused by a termination codon mutation leading to elongation of the α2 globin gene. In the case of Hb CS, the mutation is TAA→CAA, whereas the mutation causing Hb Pakse is TAA→TAT. Clinical hematologic phenotypes are not significantly different. It is important to identify compound heterozygotes for purposes of genetic counseling.

Methods:

We report 5 neonates with compound heterozygous Hb CS/Hb Pakse mutations with respect to clinical courses, hematologic profiles, and management.

Results:

Among 5 cases (3 male babies and 2 female babies) with mean birth weight 2982 g (range, 2660 to 3440 g), 3 were diagnosed as compound heterozygous Hb CS/Hb Pakse, 1 as homozygous Hb E with compound heterozygous Hb CS/Hb Pakse, and 1 as heterozygous Hb E with compound heterozygous Hb CS/Hb Pakse. Clinical manifestations included fetal anemia (1 case), neonatal hyperbilirubinemia (5), neonatal anemia (2), hepatosplenomegaly (1), and cholestatic jaundice (1). Three cases required a single phototherapy; 2 cases needed double phototherapy for treatment of severe hyperbilirubinemia. During the first few months of life, all cases had mild anemia, slightly low mean corpuscular volume, wide red cell distribution width, and low red cell counts. At 1 to 3 years of age, all patients still had mild microcytic hypochromic anemia with Hb levels around 10 g/dL, increased reticulocyte count, and wide red cell distribution width.

Conclusions:

Misdiagnosis of Hb Pakse could occur via Hb typing using Hb electrophoresis, because the band comigrates with that of Hb CS. DNA study is the definitive method for diagnosis.
Early Deaths in Pediatric Acute Leukemia: A Major Challenge in Developing Countries
Authors: Hafez Hanafy A. , Soliaman Rawaa M. , Bilal Dalia , Hashem Mohamed , Shalaby Lobna M.
Published: January 2019

Children with acute leukemia may experience high treatment-related mortality, which often occurs early in the induction phase. The aim of the study was to assess the incidence and risk factors related to increased mortality during induction therapy of pediatric patients with acute leukemia. This is a retrospective study that included pediatric acute leukemia patients who presented to the National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, between January 2011 and December 2013. The study included 370 patients, 253 with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, 100 with acute myeloid leukemia, and 17 with mixed phenotype acute leukemia. The total and induction death rates were 40.5% and 19.2%, respectively. Most of the early deaths were attributed to infections (64.7%) and cerebrovascular accidents (18.3%). Using enhanced supportive care measures during 2013 had significantly reduced the overall and induction mortality rates (29% and 13.6%, respectively, in 2013 vs. 46% and 20.3% in 2011). Induction deaths in pediatric acute leukemia remain a major challenge in developing countries, and using enhanced supportive care measures is effective to improve the survival outcome in this group of patients.
Antineoplastic Therapy Side Effects and Polypharmacy in Older Adults With Cancer
Authors: Stout Nicole L. , Sabo Wagner Susan
Published: January 2019

The geriatric oncology population requires special consideration in rehabilitation care planning due to drug side effects and potential drug interactions that occur with cancer treatment. Antineoplastic therapies incite side effects that are frequently managed with additional pharmacological interventions, often resulting in a cascade of drug side effects. Moreover, this population is disproportionately affected by multiple preexisting comorbidities that require the use of multiple medications. The aggregate impact of these pharmacological strategies increases the risk for adverse effects. This article reviews the complexities of these drug interactions and provides insight and awareness to guide rehabilitation interventions.
Eco-evo-devo implications and archaeobiological perspectives of wild and domesticated grapevines fruits covariating traits
Authors: Bonhomme Vincent , Picq Sandrine , Ivorra Sarah , Evin Allowen , Pastor Thierry , Bacilieri Roberto , Lacombe Thierry , Figueiral Isabel , Terral Jean-Frédéric , Bouby Laurent
Published: January 2019

The phenotypic changes that occurred during the domestication and diversification of grapevine are well known, particularly changes in seed morphology, but the functional causes and consequences behind these variations are poorly understood. Wild and domesticate grapes differ, among others, in the form of their pips: wild grapes produce roundish pips with short stalks and cultivated varieties have more elongated pips with longer stalks. Such variations of form are of first importance for archaeobotany since the pip form is, most often, the only remaining information in archaeological settings. This study aims to enlight archaeobotanical record and grapevine pip development by better understanding how size and shape (co)variates between pip and berry in both wild and domesticated Vitis vinifera. The covariation of berry size, number of seeds per berry (“piposity”), pip size and pip shape were explored on 49 grapevine accessions sampled among Euro-Mediterranean traditional cultivars and wild grapevines. We show that for wild grapevine, the higher the piposity, the bigger the berry and the more elongated the pip. For both wild and domesticated grapevine, the longer is the pip, the more it has a “domesticated” shape. Consequences for archaeobotanical studies are tested and discussed, and these covariations allowed the inference of berry dimensions from archaeological pips from a Southern France Roman site. This systematic exploration sheds light on new aspects of pip-berry relationship, in both size and shape, on grapevine eco-evo-devo changes during domestication, and invites to explore further the functional ecology of grapevine pip and berry and notably the impact of cultivation practices and human selection on grapevine morphology.
Single-image phase retrieval for hard X-ray grating interferometry
Authors: Wang Zhili , Ren Kun , Shi Xiaomin , Ren Yuqi , Gao Kun , Wu Zhao
Published: January 2019

A single-image method is proposed for quantitative phase retrieval in hard X-ray grating interferometry. This novel method assumes a quasi-homogeneous sample, with a constant ratio between the real and imaginary parts of its complex refractive index. The method is first theoretically derived and presented, and then validated by synchrotron radiation experiments. Compared with the phase-stepping method, the presented approach abandons grating scanning and multiple image acquisition, and is therefore advantageous in terms of its simplified acquisition procedure and reduced data-collection times, which are especially important for applications such as in vivo imaging and phase tomography. Moreover, the sample's phase image, instead of its first derivative, is directly retrieved. In particular, the stripe artifacts encountered in the integrated phase images are significantly suppressed. The improved quality of the retrieved phase images can be beneficial for image interpretation and subsequent processing. Owing to its requirement for a single image and its robustness against noise, the present method is expected to find use in potential investigations in diverse applications.
Goal orientations, absorptive capacity, and NPD team performance: evidence from China
Authors: Liang Haishan , Sun Wei , Fonseka M.M. , Zhou Feng
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationships between different types of team goal orientations (team learning orientation, team prove orientation and team avoid orientation) and team performance in new product development (NPD) and how these relationships are mediated by team absorptive capacity.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through two surveys from 71 NPD teams and analyzed by the confirmatory factor analysis, correlation and hierarchical regression analysis methods.

Findings

The authors find that both teams’ learning and prove orientations are positively related to their absorptive capacity, which leads to increasing team performance in NPD. Further, the authors find support for the mediating role of team absorptive capacity in connecting team learning orientation and team prove orientation with team performance in NPD.

Practical implications

For practitioners, this paper suggests that to benefit from their NPD team efforts, firms with innovative aspirations should consider their existing and desired access to external knowledge sources and particularly the extent to which they can successfully integrate external knowledge with their internal knowledge structure.

Originality/value

The explication of team absorptive capacity is as a key mechanism through which different goal orientations of NPD teams inform the ability to successfully develop new products. By integrating the concepts of team goal orientations, team absorptive capacity and team performance in NPD, the authors seek to gain a better understanding of why some firms are more likely to do better than others in NPD. Findings of this paper extend concept of the nomological network on how absorptive capacity may serve as a direct outcome of different goal orientations. This paper responds to how Chinese firms can increase their innovative performance by infusing their current knowledge bases with external knowledge and extends the literature on knowledge management and managerial ties on innovation.
Integrating COTS technology in defense systems
Authors: Hawkins Timothy G. , Gravier Michael J.
Published: January 2019

Purpose

Militaries face increasing budget pressures, high operations tempos, a blitzing pace of technology, and adversaries that often meet or beat government capabilities using commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) technologies. The integration of COTS products into defense systems has been offered to help meet these challenges, yet such integration suffers mixed results. The purpose of this paper is to offer a knowledge-based conceptual framework for understanding COTS technology integration in the defense sector.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review of 62 sources was conducted with the objectives of identifying antecedents (barriers and facilitators) and consequences of COTS adoption.

Findings

Research implicates the importance of knowledge management to successful COTS integration. COTS appropriateness should be gauged, and it is impacted by 14 enabling and five deterrent factors.

Research limitations/implications

The conceptual framework of COTS technology usage enhances understanding of COTS performance. The framework and its propositions should focus, and thus, stimulate increased future research of COTS performance. Limitations common to qualitative methods are disclosed.

Practical implications

By identifying factors that shape COTS appropriateness, practitioners know the factors to manage to hedge toward successful COTS integration. Managers should be aware of the importance of market knowledge for defense COTS innovation, especially for commercial companies that work as system integrators. COTS integrators need to better manage the lessons learned from COTS integration programs.

Originality/value

This research is the first to develop a conceptual framework of COTS product usage and a scale to measure COTS product appropriateness.
Review of the impact of service quality and subjective
norms in TAM among telecommunication customers in Jordan
Authors: AL-Nawafleh Enas Ali , ALSheikh Ghaith Abdulraheem Ali , Abdulllah Abdul Aziz , bin A. Tambi Abdul Malek
Published: January 2019

Purpose

Among the vast innovation that emerged through industrialized revolution is
the cell phone, while innovation has made life simpler in the present day,
society is winding up increasingly attached to it via email, bills payments,
movie production, video conferencing, financial tracking, face booking,
indigenous and national news, stocks exchange news as well as the weather
prediction. This paper aims to examine the elements influencing the
utilization of telecommunication among clients through cell phones.

Design/methodology/approach

The technology acceptance model (TAM) has been widely used in the arena of
innovation utilization; nevertheless, modern-day models are inadequate with
regards to the factors that influence purchaser use, as they are centered
more around innovation rather than services. Additionally, in the theory of
planned behavior, individual norms construct is suggested as social impact
and is regarded to be an independent factor.

Findings

Equally, usefulness and ease of use have been disregarded in numerous writing
in light of TAM and in view of the survey discoveries; there is a positive
connection between service quality, subjective norms, perceived ease of use
and perceived usefulness service.

Originality/value

The present paper proposed to the telecommunication establishments to firm-up
interconnection between service quality and utilization purpose. It
similarly enumerated equally theoretical and practical ramifications based
on earlier writing and suggested future studies to concentrate more on the
factors affecting Jordanian telecommunications utilization.
The relationship between small and medium-sized social enterprises and banks
Authors: Bengo Irene , Arena Marika
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to perform a critical analysis of the relationship between small- and medium-sized social enterprises (SMSEs) and banks. Based on the conceptual framework for the analysis of SME’s credit availability developed by Berger and Udell (2006), this study aims to contribute to the current debate in two ways: first, outlining the characteristics of the lending technologies currently used by banks and financial institutions to evaluate SMSEs when they apply for credit; and second, discussing, based on the results of the empirical analysis, the coherence of these systems from the social ecosystem perspective and identifying areas for possible improvement.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper develops a conceptual framework based on the model proposed by Berger and Udell (2006), which defines the characteristics of lending technologies that banks use to evaluate SMEs, and applies it to the case of SMSEs. To study the interplay of these lending technologies, the empirical analysis is based on a case study of five Italian banks. Data are collected from multiple sources to capture key dimensions of the problems analyzed.

Findings

The paper provides empirical insight about the relationship between SMSEs and banks. The Italian case shows that the current lending infrastructure must be revised to support SMSE credit availability, and government policies affect the national financial institution structure. The relationship between SMSEs and Italian banks remains underdeveloped.

Social implications

The research supports the scaling up of social business.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills an identified need to study how social enterprises credit access can be enabled.
Green value stream mapping approach to improving productivity and environmental performance
Authors: Muñoz-Villamizar Andrés , Santos Javier , Garcia-Sabater Julio J. , Lleo Alvaro , Grau Paloma
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce a new methodology called overall greenness performance for value stream mapping (OGP-VSM). Using value-added concepts, this approach has the potential to integrate, measure, control and improve productive and environmental performance in accordance with a company’s context.

Design/methodology/approach

The OGP-VSM approach was developed by reviewing and integrating the environmental aspects of existing lean thinking tools and approaches.

Findings

This research revealed the lack of practical integration between productive and environmental performance. Using OGP-VSM, managers can see that environmental practices have a direct impact on productivity. OGP-VSM allows a balance to be found between lean and green practices in order to achieve the simultaneous improvement of productivity and environmental performance.

Practical implications

The proposed approach is applied to a case study in an automotive company in Spain and lays the groundwork for moving toward functional environmental sustainability in manufacturers.

Originality/value

Companies are increasingly implementing environmentally focused practices. Pursuing environmentally friendly (green) performance poses several challenges, but it also affords opportunities to create new methodologies for generating a competitive advantage for manufacturing companies. There are a limited number of approaches to drawing together the elements and attributes that are essential for a holistic, practical and long-lasting improvement of environmental performance in the manufacturing sector.
A study on the adaptive approach to technology-driven enhancement of multi-scenario business processes
Authors: Marcinkowski Bartosz , Gawin Bartlomiej
Published: January 2019

Purpose

Process-oriented organizations are compelled to be innovative and continuously implement changes to meet customer requirements and gain a competitive advantage in accordance with the business process management approach. In the digital age, organizations develop business process support systems using agile methods and introduce adaptation skills in order to support their core business. Seamlessly integrating both practices into a coherent and practically applicable solution supporting multi-scenario processes infallibly remains a challenge. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The workshops identifying the key issues in an international capital group that consolidates facility management companies, as well as a related research review, have fueled a two-cycled Canonical Action Research (CAR) study.

Findings

The paper extends the current understanding of IT-enabled agility, proposing an adaptively improved infrastructure with a catalog of digital options that facilitates the composition of multi-scenario business processes.

Research limitations/implications

The CAR was limited to the members of management board and the managers constituting the focus groups. The agile business process management (ABPM) model proposed focuses on adding novel functionalities/building new processes, leaving functionality lifecycle out-of-scope. ABPM empirical validation is limited to a single business/technical case.

Practical implications

Real-life solution for supporting dynamic business processes was delivered, as rigid IT solutions do not support quick assembly of customized business processes with abundant number of scenarios. The infrastructure enables composition of customer-tailored services based on re-usable digital options directory as well as enhances business process discrepancies/software bugs detection, reducing the cost of maintaining IT infrastructure for entire customer portfolio. A number of issues resulting from building IT solutions within a series of isolated projects with no coherent overall development strategy are mitigated.

Originality/value

The ABPM acts as a reference model for focusing on developing critical functionalities and limiting resources consumed by redundant features.
The integration of video games in family-life dynamics
Authors: Bassiouni Dina H. , Hackley Chris , Meshreki Hakim
Published: January 2019

Purpose

Empirical studies using the technology acceptance model (TAM) have mainly focussed on utilitarian technologies. The purpose of this paper is to extend the TAM in order to develop a more nuanced understanding of the family dynamic around video game acceptance within households.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes a new and unique adaptation of the TAM to study the acceptance of hedonic technologies in the context of parents’/carers’ acceptance and integration of video games within family-life dynamics. This adaptation of the TAM attempts to shed light on the social influences and intrinsic motivations behind parents’ and carers’ intentions to purchase video games for their children’s consumption.

Findings

The usefulness of video games lies in how enjoyable and entertaining they are, and this seems to be influenced by the convenience and ease of use that ultimately affects the behavioural intention towards video games. Convenience of use brings in social influences on perceived enjoyment and on parents’ actual behaviour towards video games. Some social influences seem to play a direct role in affecting children’s behaviour towards video games.

Research limitations/implications

The authors acknowledge that using Facebook as a tool for data collection has limitations attributed to selection bias. Another limitation is not giving voice to the children to account for their own subjective experience of video games and relying on their parents’ perceptions on the matter.

Social implications

This study advocated extending TAM within a hedonic framework in the context of examining parents’/carers’ acceptance of video games, while re-validating past theories of TAM and introducing new contextual variables adapted to address hedonic technologies.

Originality/value

Empirical studies using TAM have focussed on the utilitarian nature of technologies and very few considered hedonic technologies. This study’s key contribution to research lies in explaining the effects of parents’ perceived enjoyment, ease of use and convenience on the intention to purchase and play video games. The findings feed into work on the ethics and developmental issues around the marketing of video games to and for children.
Validating and expanding a framework of a triple bottom line dominant logic for business sustainability through time and across contexts
Authors: Ferro Carlos , Padin Carmen , Høgevold Nils , Svensson Göran , Sosa Varela Juan Carlos
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to validate or refute the previous empirical findings of a TBL dominant logic for business sustainability and to expand the TBL dominant logic for business sustainability with additional dimensions and items. The study aims to provide bottom-up-based multi-dimensional framework in relation to the sustainable development goals (SDG) of the UN 2030 agenda for sustainable development.

Design/methodology/approach

Key corporate informants in top Spanish companies were requested to participate in the study. A total of 89 usable questionnaires were returned, generating an initial response rate of 42.4%.

Findings

A framework for a TBL-dominant logic in the context of business sustainability has been empirically tested successfully across contexts and through time, thus providing substantiation for universal applicability.

Research limitations/implications

This study provides a relevant and important substantiation for validity and reliability across contexts and through time. It is important in research to establish a theoretical framework at the corporate level for business sustainability in connection with SDGs. This study is not without its limitations, but offers opportunities for further research.

Practical implications

The framework provides practitioners with a foundation to assess their efforts at business sustainability, taking into account a broad selection of aspects across environmental, social and economic elements that contribute to SDGs.

Originality/value

This study makes two relevant and valuable contributions to developing a framework of TBL dominant logic for business sustainability, namely, validation and expansion. It offers also multiple opportunities for both research and practice to assess business sustainability efforts across environmental, social and economic aspects in relation to SDGs.
Valuation of defined benefit pension schemes in IAS 19 employee benefits - true and fair?
Authors: McNally Bridget , Garvey Anne M. , O’Connor Thomas
Published: January 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to argue that the accounting standards’ requirements for the valuation of defined benefit pension schemes in the financial statements of scheme sponsoring companies potentially produce an artificial result which is at odds with the “faithful representation” and “relevance” objectives of these standards.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach is a theoretical analysis of the relevant reporting standards with the use of a practical example to demonstrate the impact where trustees adopt a hedged approach to portfolio investment.

Findings

Where a pension fund engages in asset liability matching and invests in “risk-free” assets, the term, quantity and duration/maturity of which is intended to match some or all of its scheme liabilities, the required accounting treatment potentially results in the sponsoring company’s financial statements reporting fluctuating surpluses or deficits each year which are potentially ill informed and misleading.

Originality/value

Pension scheme surpluses or deficits reported in the financial statements of listed companies are potentially very significant numbers; however, the dangers posed by theoretical nature of the calculation have largely gone unreported.
Challenges in accessing research sites in Ghana: a research note
Authors: Azungah Theophilus
Published: January 2019

Purpose

Despite the crucial role of gaining access for successful research in social and management studies, very little has been written on issues and challenges associated with gaining access particularly in an undeveloped research context such as Ghana. The purpose of this paper is to share the experience with other researchers and practitioners for them to recognise the common challenges associated with gaining access to research sites and the significance of critical reflection and reflexivity on how a researcher’s positionality affects knowledge production. The paper emphasises the need for researchers to appreciate the taken-for-granted interactions that can contribute to critical thinking about identities and reflexivity in research. The paper adds to the paucity of voices particularly overseas students and researchers returning home (to country of origin) from Euro-American institutions to carry out field research.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on the field notes relating to the PhD fieldwork experiences in accessing subsidiaries of western multinational enterprises in Ghana. The author discussed how gatekeepers hindered access to key organisational members and the need to identify helpful networks through snowballing in order to access organisations and participants.

Findings

Considerable challenges such as denial of access, physical and psychological distress were encountered in the process of accessing organisations which often led to abandoning certain sites for others, even though those originally chosen were potentially rich sources of information. Also, positionality and the manner in which a researcher is perceived by participants certainly influence the knowledge one produces. Sufficient time is needed to negotiate and build relationships of trust with gatekeepers, which often resulted in delays in data collection. In this present study, gatekeepers often denied, limited or delayed access to potential participants and sites despite institutional ethical approval.

Practical implications

The experiences highlighted in this paper can serve as a toolkit for qualitative researchers interested in conducting research in Ghana with regard to what to expect and how to manoeuvre through in the field.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the dearth of the methodology literature on issues relating to challenges to access, positionality, insider/outsider status of the researcher and their influences on knowledge production in an under-researched context, Ghana.
Litter carbon and nutrient chemistry control the magnitude of soil priming effect
Authors: Chao Lin , Liu Yanyan , Freschet Grégoire T. , Zhang Weidong , Yu Xin , Zheng Wenhui , Guan Xin , Yang Qingpeng , Chen Longchi , Dijkstra Feike A. , Wang Silong
Published: January 2019

Plant litter inputs can promote the decomposition of soil organic matter (OM) through the priming effect (PE). However, whereas leaf litter chemistry has long been identified as the primary driver of litter decomposition within biomes world‐wide, little is known about how litter chemical traits influence the occurrence and strength of the PE.

Here, we studied the effects of 15 co‐occurring C3 leaf litters of contrasting chemistry on C4 soil respiration by analysing changes in 13C natural abundance during early and later stages of litter decomposition (up to 125 days).

Besides an apparent PE of 16% in the first 3 days, soil C respiration was increased by 24% on average with leaf litter addition in the initial stage of decomposition (4–26 days) and by 8% at later stages (27–125 days). Most interestingly, soil PE related well to initial litter chemistry and the dominant factors influencing the magnitude of the PE changed with decomposition stage. In the early stage of decomposition, litter leachate C content and litter hemicellulose concentration were positively correlated with the strength of the PE, whereas tannin concentration was negatively associated with soil PE. Together, tannin and hemicellulose explained half of the observed variation in the PE (R2 = 0.58). In the later phase of decomposition, lignin and lignin:N ratios were negatively related to the PE, whereas Ca, K and Mg concentrations were positively related to the PE; lignin alone gave the best prediction of the PE (R2 = 0.58) at later decomposition stages.

Our findings provide evidence that the magnitude and direction of the PE is influenced by the chemistry of OM inputs and suggest that, as decomposition proceeds differently among litter of contrasting chemistry, litters can also have variable effect on soil PE through time. The predictive power of litter chemical traits on soil PE opens new perspectives for improving our mechanistic understanding of soil PE and improving our abilities to model soil C dynamics at variable scales.

A plain language summary is available for this article.
Positive effects of liana cutting on seedlings are reduced during El Niño‐induced drought
Authors: O'Brien Michael J. , Philipson Christopher D. , Reynolds Glen , Dzulkifli Dzaeman , Snaddon Jake L. , Ong Robert , Hector Andy
Published: January 2019

Liana cutting is a management practice currently applied to encourage seedling regeneration and tree growth in some logged tropical forests. However, there is limited empirical evidence of its effects on forest demographic rates in Southeast Asia.

We used 22 four‐hectare plots in the Sabah Biodiversity Experiment (a reduced impact logging site) enrichment line planted with 16 dipterocarp species to assess the effects of complete liana cutting on tree growth and survival. We compared plots where lianas were only cut along planting lines (standard enrichment line planting) with those with one (2014) or two rounds (2011 and 2014) of complete liana cutting.

We found increased seedling growth following the first complete liana cut in 2011 relative to the enrichment line planting, consistent with previous studies. The response after 3 years to the cutting in 2014 depended on whether lianas had been previously cut or not: in twice‐cut plots, seedling growth was not significantly different from the standard enrichment planting controls, whereas growth in plots with only one complete cut in 2014 was significantly slower. Seedling survival decreased through time for both once‐ and twice‐cut liana treatments but remained stable in controls.

Sapling growth after the 2014 liana cutting showed a similar pattern to seedling growth, while tree growth following the 2014 liana cutting was significantly lower than controls regardless of whether lianas were cut twice (2011 and 2014) or once (2014).

Differences in response between the two rounds of liana cutting were likely due to changes in precipitation—2011 was followed by consistent rainfall while 2014 was followed by two severe droughts within 2 years.

Synthesis and applications. Our results generally support the widely reported positive effects of liana cutting on tree growth and survival. However, reduced growth and survival after the 2015/2016 El Niño suggests that drought may temporarily undermine the benefits of liana cutting in logged tropical forests. Managers of similar areas in SE Asia should consider halting liana cutting during El Niño events. In other tropical areas, seedling survival should be monitored to assess to what extent results from SE Asia are transferable.
Long non‐coding RNAs differential expression in breast cancer subtypes: What do we know?
Authors: Mathias Carolina , Zambalde Erika P. , Rask Philip , Gradia Daniela F. , de Oliveira Jaqueline C.
Published: January 2019

Breast Cancer (BC) is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and is the leading cause of cancer deaths in women. BC is a heterogeneous disease with different clinical and genetic features. According to immunohistochemical markers, BC is subdivided into four main subtypes: luminal A, luminal B, ERBB2 positive and triple negative. Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are transcripts with more than 200 nucleotides and deregulated lncRNAs are associated with human diseases, including BC. In order to improve BC molecular classification, non‐coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including lncRNAs, have been used. In this review, we focus on lncRNAs with differential expression in BC subtypes and how these RNAs may act to contribute to BC heterogeneity. We also emphasize the potential of these lncRNAs as biomarkers.
New insights and improved strategies for the management of primary spontaneous pneumothorax
Authors: Plojoux Jérôme , Froudarakis Marios , Janssens Jean‐Paul , Soccal Paola M. , Tschopp Jean‐Marie
Published: January 2019

The pathophysiology and management of primary spontaneous pneumothorax (PSP) are a subject of debate. Despite advances in the understanding of its etiopathogenesis and improvements in its management, implementation in clinical practice is suboptimal. In this manuscript, we review the recent literature with a focus on PSP pathophysiology and management. Blebs and emphysema‐like changes (ELC) are thought to contribute to the pathophysiology of PSP but cannot explain all cases. Recent studies emphasize the role of a diffuse porosity of the visceral pleura. Others found a relationship between smoking, occurrence of a PSP and bronchiolitis, which could be the initial pathological process leading to ELC development. Recent or ongoing studies challenge the need to systematically remove air from the pleural cavity of stable patients, introducing conservative management as a valuable therapeutic option. Evidence is growing in favour of needle aspiration instead of chest tube insertion, when air evacuation is needed. In addition, ambulatory management is considered as a successful approach in meta‐analyses and is under exploration in a large randomized study. Because of a high recurrence rate of PSP, the benefit of performing a pleurodesis at first occurrence is under evaluation with interesting but not generalizable results. Better identification of ‘at risk patients’ is needed to improve the investigation strategy. Finally, recent publications confirm the efficacy, security and cost‐effectiveness of graded talc poudrage pleurodesis to prevent PSP recurrence. In conclusion, PSP pathophysiology and management are still under investigation. The results of recently published and ongoing studies should be more widely implemented in clinical practice.
Neuroprotective potential of adenosine A1 receptor partial agonists in experimental models of cerebral ischemia
Authors: Martire Alberto , Lambertucci Catia , Pepponi Rita , Ferrante Antonella , Benati Nicholas , Buccioni Michela , Dal Ben Diego , Marucci Gabriella , Klotz Karl‐Norbert , Volpini Rosaria , Popoli Patrizia
Published: January 2019

Cerebral ischemia is the second most common cause of death and a major cause of disability worldwide. Available therapies are based only on anticoagulants or recombinant tissue plasminogen activator. Extracellular adenosine increases during ischemia and acts as a neuroprotective endogenous agent mainly by activating adenosine A1 receptors (A1Rs) which control calcium influx, glutamate release, membrane potential, and metabolism. Accordingly, in many experimental paradigms it has been already demonstrated that the stimulation of A1R with full agonists is able to reduce ischemia‐related structural and functional brain damage; unfortunately, cardiovascular side effects and desensitization of A1R induced by these compounds have strongly limited their exploitation in stroke therapy so far. Among the newly emerging compounds, A1R partial agonists could be almost free of side effects and equally effective. Therefore, we decided to evaluate the neuroprotective potential of two A1R partial agonists, namely 2′‐dCCPA and 3′‐dCCPA, in in vitro and ex vivo experimental models of cerebral ischemia. Within the experimental paradigm of oxygen‐glucose deprivation in vitro in human neuroblastoma (SH‐SY5Y) cells both A1R partial agonists increased cell viability. Considering the high level of expression of A1Rs in the hippocampus and the susceptibility of CA1 region to hypoxia, we performed electrophysiological experiments in this subfield. The application of 7 min of oxygen‐glucose deprivation constantly produces an irreversible synaptic failure in all the C57Bl/6 mice hippocampal slices evaluated; both tested compounds allowed a significant recovery of synaptic transmission. These findings demonstrate that A1R and its partial agonists are still of interest for cerebral ischemia therapy.

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The role of the gut microbiota in development, function and disorders of the central nervous system and the enteric nervous system
Authors: Heiss Christina N. , Olofsson Louise E.
Published: January 2019

The gut microbiota has emerged as an environmental factor that modulates the development of the central nervous system (CNS) and the enteric nervous system (ENS). Before obtaining its own microbiota, eutherian foetuses are exposed to products and metabolites from the maternal microbiota. At birth, the infants are colonised by microorganisms. The microbial composition in early life is strongly influenced by the mode of delivery, the feeding method, the use of antibiotics and the maternal microbial composition. Microbial products and microbially produced metabolites act as signalling molecules that have direct or indirect effects on the CNS and the ENS. An increasing number of studies show that the gut microbiota can modulate important processes during development, including neurogenesis, myelination, glial cell function, synaptic pruning and blood‐brain barrier permeability. Furthermore, numerous studies indicate that there is a developmental window early in life during which the gut microbial composition is crucial and perturbation of the gut microbiota during this period causes long‐lasting effects on the development of the CNS and the ENS. However, other functions are readily modulated in adult animals, including microglia activation and neuroinflammation. Several neurobehavioural, neurodegenerative, mental and metabolic disorders, including Parkinson disease, autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenia, Alzheimer's disease, depression and obesity, have been linked to the gut microbiota. This review focuses on the role of the microorganisms in the development and function of the CNS and the ENS, as well as their potential role in pathogenesis.
Nasal high flow therapy for neonates: Current evidence and future directions
Authors: Hodgson Kate A , Davis Peter G , Owen Louise S
Published: January 2019

Nasal high flow (nHF) therapy is a commonly used method of providing non‐invasive respiratory support for neonates. It has several potential mechanisms of action: continuous distending pressure, nasopharyngeal dead space washout, provision of heated and humidified gases and reduction of work of breathing. nHF is used in a number of clinical scenarios for preterm and term infants, including primary respiratory and post‐extubation support. In recent years, large trials have generated evidence pertinent to these indications. Novel applications for nHF in neonates warrant further research: during endotracheal intubation, for initial delivery room stabilisation of preterm infants and in conjunction with minimally invasive surfactant therapy.
Global incidence and profile of ameloblastoma: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Hendra Faqi Nurdiansyah , Van Cann Ellen M. , Helder Marco N. , Ruslin Muhammad , de Visscher Jan G. , Forouzanfar Tymour , de Vet Henrica C. W.
Published: January 2019

Objectives

To evaluate the global incidence of ameloblastoma and to provide a profile of ameloblastoma patients.

Material and Methods

A systematic review and meta‐analysis was conducted. Searches were performed in PubMed, EMBASE, SCOPUS, and Web of Science for articles published from 1969 to 2018 for the global incidence and from 1995 to 2018 for the profile of ameloblastoma patients.

Results

Seven studies on the incidence rate of ameloblastoma were included in the meta‐analysis. These studies only covered Europe, Africa, and Australia. The pooled incidence rate was 0.92 per million person‐years (95% CI: 0.57–1.49), with significant heterogeneity between studies. Forty‐two articles provided profile data of 6,446 ameloblastoma patients. Mean age was 34 years and the peak age incidence in the third decade of life. In Europe and North America, ameloblastoma mostly occurred at an older age when compared to Africa and South America. A slight male preference (53%) was found, and the mandible appeared to be the preferred site. The most common type of ameloblastoma was multicystic. The histopathologic patterns were mostly follicular and plexiform.

Conclusions

This is the first study assessing the global incidence of ameloblastoma. The pooled incidence rate was determined to be 0.92 per million person‐years.
Effect of straw amendment modes on soil organic carbon, nitrogen sequestration and crop yield on the North‐Central Plain of China
Authors: Zhao Huili , Ning Peng , Chen Yanlong , Liu Jifei , Ghaffar Shar A. , Xiaohong Tian , Shi Jianglan
Published: January 2019

We quantified the effects of different straw return modes on soil organic carbon (SOC), total nitrogen content (TN) and C:N ratios in a wheat/maize double‐cropping agricultural system by analysing their content in different soil aggregate sizes and density fractions under four modes of straw return: (a) no return/retention of wheat and maize straw (Control); (b) retention of long wheat stubble only (Wheat Stubble); (c) retention of long wheat stubble and return of chopped maize straw (Mixed); and (d) return of chopped wheat and maize straw (Both Chopped). The Mixed and Both Chopped straw return modes produced the highest crop yields. Relative to the Control, SOC stock was 9.6% greater with the Mixed treatment and 14.5% greater with the Both Chopped treatment, whereas the Wheat Stubble treatment had no effect on SOC. Mixed and Both Chopped significantly enhanced TN stock relative to the Wheat Stubble and Control treatments. Compared with the Control, the Mixed and Both Chopped treatments increased the mass proportions of large macroaggregates and reduced the silt plus clay fraction; Mixed and Both Chopped caused a significant increase in SOC and TN in large and small macroaggregates; the Mixed treatment significantly increased SOC content in the coarse and fine intra‐aggregate particulate organic matter (iPOM) density fractions of large macroaggregates, whereas Both Chopped increased SOC in the coarse iPOM, fine iPOM and mineral‐associated organic matter (mSOM) density fractions of both large and small macroaggregates; and Mixed and Both Chopped enhanced TN content in coarse iPOM and fine iPOM within small macroaggregates. Although the Mixed treatment was slightly less effective at improving C sequestration in agricultural fields than the Both Chopped treatment, the Mixed treatment may nonetheless be the optimal plant residue management mode in terms of minimizing time and labour due to its ability to improve soil structure, maintain organic carbon levels and provide a means of sustainable crop production in intensive wheat/maize double‐cropping systems.