bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
WOVOdat – the global volcano unrest database aimed at improving eruption forecasts
Authors: Costa Fidel , Widiwijayanti Christina , Nang Thin Zar Win , Fajiculay Erickson , Espinosa-Ortega Tania , Newhall Christopher
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the importance of a comprehensive global database on volcanic unrest (WOVOdat) as a resource to improve eruption forecasts, hazard evaluation and mitigation actions.

Design/methodology/approach

WOVOdat is a centralized database that hosts multi-parameter monitoring data sets from unrest and eruption episodes of volcanoes worldwide. Its online interface (https://wovodat.org/) allows interactive data analysis and comparison between volcanoes and eruption styles, which is needed during volcanic crises, as well as to perform basic research on pre-eruption processes, teaching and outreach.

Findings

WOVOdat aims to standardize and organize the myriad of monitoring data types at the global scale. Users can compare changes during a crisis to past unrest episodes, and estimate probabilities of outcomes using evidence-based statistics. WOVOdat will be to volcanology as an epidemiological database is to medicine.

Research limitations/implications

The success of eruption forecast relies on data completeness, and thus requires the willingness of observatories, governments and researchers to share data across the volcano community.

Practical implications

WOVOdat is a unique resource that can be studied to understand the causes of volcanic unrest and to improve eruption forecasting.

Originality/value

WOVOdat is the only compilation of standardized and multi-parameter volcano unrest data from around the world, and it is freely and easily accessible through an online interface.
Strategy execution in public sectors: empirical evidence from Belgium
Authors: Bhimavarapu Sasidhar Reddy , Kim Seong-Young , Xiong Jie
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Many public sector organizations have shown a consistent lack of capability to execute their strategic plans compared with private sector organizations. This failure explains why most public sector organizations are grappling with the dynamics of the twenty-first century in service delivery. Further, the strategy execution gap is vast in the public sector organizations than in the private sector organizations. The purpose of this paper is built based on the curiosity to develop a conceptual model that can close the strategy execution gap in public sector organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

The research adopted a qualitative research design, particularly, a case study research design approach as an ideal tool to conduct a holistic and in-depth survey of the trends in strategy execution in the public sector.

Findings

From the findings of the study, it has been found that five out of the nine strategy execution components that were investigated showed higher scores. These strategy execution components perceived to be vital by this study and were integrated into the MERIL-DE model, which will significantly contribute to closing the strategy execution gap in the public sector.

Originality/value

This research was built based on the curiosity to develop a conceptual model, the MERIL-DE model that can close the strategy execution gap in public sector organizations.
Surviving disruption: the grocer's tale
Authors: Blitz Amy
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The US economy has undergone major macro disruption since the mid-1990s. Focusing on the retail grocery sector, this paper aims to compare the divergent strategies and outcomes of three key players to identify strategies that work vs those that do not during turbulent times, relevant to other sectors as well.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the S&P 500 from 1996 to 2019 as a case selection method, the paper compares A&P, which died in 2015, one of just 12 of the original 500 companies to do so during the period; Kroger, which has held strong and has stayed on the S&P 500 list throughout the period; and Whole Foods, the only grocer to rise onto the list during the period, dropped in 2017 when it was bought by Amazon.

Findings

A key differentiator separating A&P from Kroger and Whole Foods is relentless pursuit of customer satisfaction. This may seem axiomatic but is too often lost under investor pressures for short-term gains.

Practical implications

Successful companies view such pursuit as an ongoing process requiring continual evolution even reinvention as customers’ preferences and expectations change. Related to this is the need to maintain an ongoing focus on creating value for customers, as well as for the employees, suppliers and other key stakeholders who shape the customer experience. Finally, to maintain such a focus, companies must also commit to long-term investment not just short-term profits or gains for shareholders.

Originality/value

The use of the S&P data as a case selection method frames the cases in context of the broader US economy and provides a strong foundation for comparing companies with diverse strategies and outcomes while facing the same macro disruptions and uncertainties.
Dependence on tips and sexual harassment vulnerability of hotel employees in Accra, Ghana
Authors: Mensah Christopher
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between perceived dependence on tips and vulnerability to sexual harassment (SH) among hotel employees in Accra Metropolis, Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

Within a cross-sectional research design, 583 employees from 55 hotels completed self-administered questionnaires. Descriptive statistics,χ2test of independence, Kruskal–Wallis test were used to analyse collected data.

Findings

Results of the study reveal that dependence on tips is related to SH vulnerability of food and beverage staff. Furthermore, dependence on tips engenders a perception of SH climate. Compared to guests and co-workers, supervisors were least identified as perpetrators of SH in hotel workspaces. Guests were responsible for unwanted sexual attention, whereas co-workers pose the greatest risk for gender harassment.

Practical implications

Hotel management should invest in the publication of educational materials such as leaflets and posters indicating unacceptability of inappropriate sexual behaviours.

Originality/value

This paper is one of the pioneers to have assessed the relationship between dependence on tips and perceived climate for SH as well as vulnerability to SH in a hotel context.
Effectuation logic in digital business model transformation
Authors: Baber William W. , Ojala Arto , Martinez Ricardo
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study how digital business models evolve when entrepreneurs move to new digital platforms and how this evolution is related to effectuation and causation logics.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applies a multiple case study approach to investigate how digital business models change in small, Japanese high-tech firms providing their innovations through different digital platforms. To investigate digital business models, this study considers the elements that comprise general business models. The case firms were selected based on size, products and transitions from physical to various digital platforms. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with the key decision-makers from the case firms.

Findings

The findings show that through digital transformation, the case firms’ digital business models evolved by following effectuation logic as well as causal logic. All the firms employed causal logic when moving to new platforms, among other actions. The case firms used effectual logic with success for product development and adjustments to their network. Especially firms providing video games relied on effectuation for high impact products. Effectual logic did not play a role at all in changes to value delivery and had only little impact on revenue structures.

Originality/value

This research helps understand how digitalization of platforms and subsequent moves to newer digital platforms improve a firm by changing the business model elements through effectuation and causation logics. This research extends the understanding of digital business model transformation to a more granular level, business model elements.
EMNC technological knowledge flow patterns: an overview of the US patents granted
Authors: Zhang Feng
Published: November 2019

Purpose

With considerable attention paid to the motives and process of idiosyncratic internationalization trajectory of multinationals from emerging economies (EMNCs), little is known on whether, and if so how, new competitive advantages of EMNCs are created and accumulated over time. MNC and EMNC literature agrees on the importance of external and internal knowledge linkages in technological competence creation. By building upon this framework, this paper aims to evaluate EMNCs’ external and internal knowledge flow patterns by benchmarking their counterparts from mature industrialized countries (MMNCs).

Design/methodology/approach

This study analyzes US patents granted between 2000 and 2014 to leading innovation-oriented EMNCs from China and India, and their matched MMNCs. Being the first to use the US patent and citation data in studying leading innovation-oriented EMNCs, the authors use a descriptive statistical method.

Findings

The findings offer empirical insights of the scale, scope and quality of EMNC technological competence creation. Moreover, in contrast to existing EMNC literature, it is found that EMNC parents have been the most important center of EMNC technological knowledge generation. The matched group comparisons of external and internal knowledge flows further reveal detailed similarities and differences of competence creation between EMNCs and MMNCs, and among EMNCs.

Originality/value

This study represents one of the first attempts to investigate the post-internationalization technological competence creation of EMNCs by using a novel data source. This study sets the foundation to deepen the understanding of EMNC technological competence creation. The findings suggest interesting propositions and offer important implications for future researches.
Restricted pleasure for healthy eating and food well-being
Authors: Bradford Tonya Williams , Grier Sonya
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship of dietary restriction and food well-being (FWB) in an under-researched population using a novel but growing approach to transition to healthier eating patterns.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses individual interviews of African-American participants in a food detoxification program, a specific form of food restriction used to transition to healthier eating.

Findings

Results identify how food socialization and food literacy enable individuals to transform their relationship with food and enhance their FWB. Unlike prior research that focuses on food as the source of pleasure, this study finds that food is deployed as fuel, and this transition results in pleasure.

Originality/value

This research explains how a voluntary transition to healthier eating enables people to pursue FWB and extends the understanding of FWB (Block et al., 2011). In addition, this research contributes novel insights related to transformative consumer research efforts to motivate change. Findings have implications for marketing theory and practice, including the development of social marketing campaigns to support healthy eating patterns, especially for at-risk populations.
Survival, tumour response and safety of 70‐150 μm versus 100‐300 μm doxorubicin drug‐eluting beads in transarterial chemoembolisation for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Huo Ya Ruth , Xiang Hao , Chan Michael Vinchill , Chan Christine
Published: November 2019

Introduction

This study investigates the outcomes and safety of 70–150 μm and 100–300 μm doxorubicin drug‐eluting bead transarterial chemoembolisation (DEB‐TACE) in patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

Retrospective, cohort study of 51 patients treated with DEB‐TACE for unresectable HCC was studied: 23 with 100–300 μm particles and 28 with 70–150 μm particles. Overall, survival (OS), progression‐free survival (PFS), tumour response and prognostic factors were assessed.

Results

The median OS of the entire cohort was 30 months. The median OS and median PFS for 70–150 μm particles were not reached, whilst for the 100–300 μm group, it was 29.2 months and 15.0 months, respectively. The 6‐month, 1‐year and 2‐year OS for 70–150 μm was 96%, 86% and 85% versus the 100–300 μm particles size of 83%, 64% and 44%, respectively. At 1‐month follow‐up, patients treated with 70–150 μm had significantly better mRECIST tumour response compared to 100–300 μm (complete response 38.5% vs. 19%; partial response 57.7% vs. 42.9%; stable disease 0% vs. 4.8%; progressive disease 3.8% vs. 33.3%, P = 0.027). Patients treated with 100–300 μm DEBs were significantly more likely to have progressive disease on 1‐month follow‐up imaging compared those treated with 70–150 μm DEB sizes (odds ratio 7.15, P = 0.007). The 30‐day mortality rate was similar between the two groups (3.6% for 70–150 μm vs. 4.3% for 100–300 μm). Multivariate analysis demonstrated entire cohort OS was significantly associated with BCLC stage (aHR: 10.5, P = 0.002), albumin (aHR: 15.0, P = 0.02) and ALP (aHR 62, P = 0.001).

Conclusions

DEB‐TACE with 70–150 μm particles demonstrates improved 1‐month objective tumour response compared to 100–300 μm, whilst having a similar safety profile. Elevated ALP, lower albumin and higher BCLC stage were significantly associated with poorer survival outcomes.
Prioritizing among removal scenarios for the reintroduction of endangered species: insights from bearded vulture simulation modeling
Authors: Colomer M. À. , Oliva‐Vidal P. , Jiménez J. , Martínez J. M. , Margalida A.
Published: November 2019

Translocations are an increasing feature of threatened species conservation plans, but the impact of removal of individuals on the source population is seldom studied. Using computational Population Dynamics P System models and the Pyrenean Bearded Vulture population as a case study we looked at: the effect on the source population of alternative strategies for removal of individual birds for use in reintroduction projects; and the trade‐offs between the various management options. According to our models (over a 30 year prediction horizon) the removal of one clutch, juvenile or non‐territorial adult each year over an 11 year period, results in an annual loss of 1.57, 3.71 and 0.97 territories, respectively. We forecast the impact of a plausible removal scenario for the Pyrenees source population (the removal of five clutches and five non‐territorial adults each year over 11 years), leading to a predicted loss of 16 breeding territories. Nevertheless, changes in demographic parameters, mainly in productivity and adult survival, could substantially affect these predicted results. With the current demographic parameters, the removal scenarios that were estimated to not affect population size after 30 years (95% CI) are limited to: (1) the removal of five clutches and five non‐territorial adults during a single year; (2) the annual removal of five non‐territorial adults during a 6 year period; and (3) the annual removal of five clutches during a 6 year period. Our results suggest that removals from the Pyrenean Bearded Vulture source population should be performed with caution due to uncertainties arising from stochastic changes in survival and productivity.
Potent and selective NOP receptor activation reduces cocaine self‐administration in rats by lowering hedonic set point
Authors: Cippitelli Andrea , Barnes Megan , Zaveri Nurulain T. , Toll Lawrence
Published: November 2019

Developing new medications for the treatment of cocaine dependence continues to be a research priority. Compelling evidence indicates that mixed opioid receptor agonists, particularly bifunctional compounds that target nociceptin/orphanin FQ peptide (NOP) and mu opioid receptors, may be useful for the treatment of cocaine addiction. Here, we verify that potent and selective pharmacological activation of NOP receptors is sufficient to reduce relevant facets of cocaine addiction in animal models. Accordingly, we determined whether systemic injections of the small molecule AT‐312 (0, 1, 3 mg/kg) could reduce operant cocaine self‐administration, motivation for cocaine, and vulnerability to cocaine relapse in rats. Results indicate that a potent and selective NOP receptor agonist was equally efficacious in reducing the number of cocaine infusions in short (1‐hour), as well as long (6‐hour) access sessions. When tested on an economic‐demand reinforcement schedule, AT‐312 reduced Q0, the parameter that describes the amount of drug consumed at zero price, while leaving the parameter α, a measure of motivation for drug consumption, unaltered. Furthermore, AT‐312 successfully reduced conditioned reinstatement of cocaine seeking. In contrast, the NOP receptor agonist did not modify food self‐administration. Blockade of the NOP receptor with the antagonist SB‐612111 prevented the effect of AT‐312 in decreasing cocaine‐reinforced responding under a 2‐hour fixed ratio 1 schedule, suggesting a NOP receptor‐mediated mechanism. This work demonstrates that potent and selective activation of NOP receptors is sufficient to decrease cocaine taking and seeking behaviors in rats.
An initial exploration of subtraction electrocardiography to detect myocardial ischemia in the prehospital setting
Authors: ter Haar Cornelia Cato , Peters Ron J. G. , Bosch Jan , Sbrollini Agnese , Gripenstedt Sophia , Adams Rob , Bleijenberg Eduard , Kirchhof Charles J. H. J. , Alizadeh Dehnavi Reza , Burattini Laura , de Winter Robbert J. , Macfarlane Peter W. , Postema Pieter G. , Man Sumche , Scherptong Roderick W. C. , Schalij Martin J. , Maan Arie C. , Swenne Cees A.
Published: November 2019

Background

In the prehospital triage of patients presenting with symptoms suggestive of acute myocardial ischemia, reliable myocardial ischemia detection in the electrocardiogram (ECG) is pivotal. Due to large interindividual variability and overlap between ischemic and nonischemic ECG‐patterns, incorporation of a previous elective (reference) ECG may improve accuracy. The aim of the current study was to explore the potential value of serial ECG analysis using subtraction electrocardiography.

Methods

SUBTRACT is a multicenter retrospective observational study, including patients who were prehospitally evaluated for acute myocardial ischemia. For each patient, an elective previously recorded reference ECG was subtracted from the ambulance ECG. Patients were classified as myocardial ischemia cases or controls, based on the in‐hospital diagnosis. The diagnostic performance of subtraction electrocardiography was tested using logistic regression of 28 variables describing the differences between the reference and ambulance ECGs. The Uni‐G ECG Analysis Program was used for state‐of‐the‐art single‐ECG interpretation of the ambulance ECG.

Results

In 1,229 patients, the mean area‐under‐the‐curve of subtraction electrocardiography was 0.80 (95%CI: 0.77–0.82). The performance of our new method was comparable to single‐ECG analysis using the Uni‐G algorithm: sensitivities were 66% versus 67% (p‐value > .05), respectively; specificities were 80% versus 81% (p‐value > .05), respectively.

Conclusions

In our initial exploration, the diagnostic performance of subtraction electrocardiography for the detection of acute myocardial ischemia proved equal to that of state‐of‐the‐art automated single‐ECG analysis by the Uni‐G algorithm. Possibly, refinement of both algorithms, or even integration of the two, could surpass current electrocardiographic myocardial ischemia detection.
Coexistence of increased arterial stiffness and interatrial block in overweight subjects
Authors: Dogdus Mustafa , Cinier Goksel
Published: November 2019

Background

Interatrial block (IAB) is an electrical conduction delay between the right and left atrium and is associated with some cardiovascular disorders. Arterial stiffness is a useful prognostic marker for cardiovascular events. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the coexistence of increased arterial stiffness and IAB in overweight subjects.

Methods

A total of 110 overweight people were enrolled (56 subjects with IAB, and 54 age‐ and gender‐matched subjects without IAB) into the study. Surface 12‐lead standard ECGs were recorded. I.E.M. Mobil‐O‐Graph ambulatory blood pressure monitor device was used to assess the arterial stiffness.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 54.1 ± 11.5 years, and 53.6% were male. PWV and Aix were significantly higher in IAB (+) group than IAB (−) group (9.34 ± 1.5 vs. 7.86 ± 1.3, p < .001; 29.18 ± 11.2 vs. 22.75 ± 10.4, p < .001, respectively), and also, positive linear correlation was observed between arterial stiffness parameters and P‐wave duration (r = .758 for PWV; r = .682 for Aix, respectively).

Conclusion

The present study is the first to focus on evaluating the relationship between the presence of IAB and arterial stiffness in overweight subjects. If there is a coexistence of increased arterial stiffness and IAB in overweight subjects, it should be considered as requiring clinically closer follow‐up.
The environmental occurrence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Crone Stephanie , Vives‐Flórez Martha , Kvich Lasse , Saunders Aaron M. , Malone Matthew , Nicolaisen Mette H. , Martínez‐García Esteban , Rojas‐Acosta Catalina , Catalina Gomez‐Puerto Maria , Calum Henrik , Whiteley Marvin , Kolter Roberto , Bjarnsholt Thomas
Published: November 2019

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is generally described as ubiquitous in natural settings, such as soil and water. However, because anecdotal observations and published reports have questioned whether or not this description is true, we undertook a rigorous study using three methods to investigate the occurrence of P. aeruginosa: We investigated environmental samples, analyzed 16S rRNA data, and undertook a systematic review and meta‐analysis of published data. The environmental sample screening identified P. aeruginosa as significantly associated with hydrocarbon and pesticide‐contaminated environments and feces, as compared to uncontaminated environments in which its prevalence was relatively low. The 16S rRNA data analysis showed that P. aeruginosa sequences were present in all habitats but were most abundant in samples from human and animals. Similarly, the meta‐analysis revealed that samples obtained from environments with intense human contact had a higher prevalence of P. aeruginosa compared to those with less human contact. Thus, we found a clear tendency of P. aeruginosa to be present in places closely linked with human activity. Although P. aeruginosa may be ubiquitous in nature, it is usually scarce in pristine environments. Thus, we suggest that P. aeruginosa should be described as a bacterium largely found in locations associated with human activity.
Preventing suicide, promoting resilience: Is this achievable from a global perspective?
Authors: Ivbijaro Gabriel , Kolkiewicz Lucja , Goldberg David , Riba Michelle B. , N'jie Isatou N.S. , Geller Jeffrey , Kallivayalil Roy , Javed Afzal , Švab Igor , Summergrad Paul , Laher Sumaya , Enum Yaccub
Published: November 2019

Suicide continues to be a major health concern globally despite many initiatives to identify risk factors and methods for suicide prevention. We have carried out a detailed narrative review of the literature from 2016 to 2019 using the headings of Personal resilience (P1), People (P2), Places (P3), Prevention (P4), Promoting collaboration (P5), and Promoting research (P6) in order to support an integrated approach to suicide prevention and the promotion of personal and population resilience. We have made 10 key recommendations on how this can be moved forward.
‘Seeing through their Eyes’: Towards Understanding Risk and Protection Perspectives of Young Bedouin Children in the Unrecognised Villages of the Naqab
Authors: Marey‐Sarwan Ibtisam
Published: November 2019

This article is based on a participatory, context‐informed study that examined perception of ‘risk’ and ‘protection’ among 30 Bedouin children aged four to five. It was conducted in the Bedouin unrecognised villages — Southern Israel and utilised photography, drawings and verbal explanations. The analysis yielded seven themes representing children’s perceptions of risk and protection. It indicated that children facing extreme adversity were aware of numerous risk conditions, including a lack of infrastructure and the fear of losing their homes, thus adversely affecting their well‐being. Children’s insights, and suggested modes of protection, as the study findings reveal, are crucial for promoting children’s welfare.
Improved glycaemic variability and time in range with dapagliflozin versus gliclazide modified release among adults with type 2 diabetes, evaluated by continuous glucose monitoring: A 12‐week randomized controlled trial
Authors: Vianna Andre G. D. , Lacerda Claudio S. , Pechmann Luciana M. , Polesel Michelle G. , Marino Emerson C. , Scharf Mauro , Detsch Josiane M. , Marques Kleber , Sanches Claudia P.
Published: November 2019

Aims

To evaluate whether there is a difference between the effects of dapagliflozin and gliclazide modified release (MR) on glycaemic variability (GV) and glycaemic control, as assessed by continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), in individuals with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes.

Materials and methods

This randomized, open‐label, active‐controlled study was conducted in individuals with uncontrolled type 2 diabetes who were drug‐naïve or on steady‐dose metformin monotherapy. Participants were treated once daily with 10 mg dapagliflozin or 120 mg gliclazide MR. CGM and GV index calculations were performed at baseline and after 12 weeks.

Results

In total, 97 participants (age 57.9 ± 8.7 years, 50.5% men, baseline glycated haemoglobin 63 ± 9.8 mmol/mol [7.9 ± 0.9%]) were randomized, and 94 completed the 12‐week protocol. Intention‐to‐treat (ITT) and per‐protocol (PP) analyses showed that the reduction in GV, as measured by the mean amplitude of glycaemic excursions, was superior in the dapagliflozin group versus the gliclazide MR group (−0.9 mmol/L [95% CI −1.5, −0.4] vs −0.2 mmol/L [95% CI −0.6, 0.3]; P = 0.030 [ITT]). The reductions in GV estimated by the coefficient of variation and SD were greater in the dapagliflozin group. Moreover, dapagliflozin increased the glucose time in range (TIR; 3.9–10 mmol/L) by 24.9% (95% CI 18.6, 31.2) vs. 17.4% (95% CI 11.6, 23.3) in the gliclazide MR group (P = 0.089 [ITT]; P = 0.041 [PP]).

Conclusions

Dapagliflozin improved GV and increased TIR more efficiently than gliclazide MR in individuals with type 2 diabetes over 12 weeks, as demonstrated by CGM.
Genome‐wide SNPs resolve spatiotemporal patterns of connectivity within striped marlin (Kajikia audax), a broadly distributed and highly migratory pelagic species
Authors: Mamoozadeh Nadya R. , Graves John E. , McDowell Jan R.
Published: November 2019

Genomic methodologies offer unprecedented opportunities for statistically robust studies of species broadly distributed in environments conducive to high gene flow, providing valuable information for wildlife conservation and management. Here, we sequence restriction site‐associated DNA to characterize genome‐wide single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in a broadly distributed and highly migratory large pelagic fish, striped marlin (Kajikia audax). Assessment of over 4,000 SNPs resolved spatiotemporal patterns of genetic connectivity throughout the species range in the Pacific and, for the first time, Indian oceans. Individual‐based cluster analyses identified six genetically distinct populations corresponding with the western Indian, eastern Indian, western South Pacific, and eastern central Pacific oceans, as well as two populations in the North Pacific Ocean (FST = 0.0137–0.0819). FST outlier analyses identified a subset of SNPs (n = 59) putatively under the influence of natural selection and capable of resolving populations separated by comparatively high degrees of genetic differentiation. Temporal collections available for some regions demonstrated the stability of allele frequencies over three to five generations of striped marlin. Relative migration rates reflected lower levels of genetic connectivity between Indian Ocean populations (mR ≤ 0.37) compared with most populations in the Pacific Ocean (mR ≥ 0.57) and highlight the importance of the western South Pacific in facilitating gene flow between ocean basins. Collectively, our results provide novel insights into rangewide population structure for striped marlin and highlight substantial inconsistencies between genetically distinct populations and stocks currently recognized for fisheries management. More broadly, we demonstrate that species capable of long‐distance dispersal in environments lacking obvious physical barriers to movement can display substantial population subdivision that persists over multiple generations and that may be facilitated by both neutral and adaptive processes. Importantly, surveys of genome‐wide markers enable inference of population‐level relationships using sample sizes practical for large pelagic fishes of conservation concern.
Micro‐CT study on the removal of accumulated hard‐tissue debris from the root canal system of mandibular molars when using a novel laser‐activated irrigation approach
Authors: Yang Q. , Liu M. W. , Zhu L. X. , Peng B.
Published: November 2019

Aim

To compare the efficacy of ultrasonically activated irrigation (UAI), photon‐induced photoacoustic streaming (PIPS) and shock wave enhanced emission photoacoustic streaming (SWEEPS) activation for the removal of accumulated hard‐tissue debris (AHTD) from the root canal system of mandibular molars when assessed using microcomputed tomography (micro‐CT).

Methodology

A total of 30 mandibular first and second molars with joining mesial root canals containing an isthmus and a single distal canal were subjected to three micro‐CT scans (before and after canal instrumentation and after final irrigation) at a resolution of 15 μm. Mesial canals were prepared up to a ProTaper F3 rotary file, and distal canals were prepared up to a ProTaper F4 rotary file. Teeth were randomly assigned to three groups according to the irrigant activation method (n = 10): the UAI group, the PIPS group and the SWEEPS group. The final irrigation procedures were performed using a total of 15.5 mL of 1% NaOCl for each tooth with an activation time of 3 × 30 s. After three‐dimensional model reconstruction and volumetric measurement of root canals, the percentage reduction (%Rd) of AHTD was calculated. The %Rd of AHTD was analysed statistically using one‐way analysis of variance and nonparametric tests at a significance level of 5%.

Results

There were no significant differences between the three groups in terms of canal volume before or after instrumentation, or the volume of debris after canal preparation (P > 0.05). In the mesial canals, irrigation with SWEEPS reduced the overall debris by 84.31%, which was significantly more than the reduction associated with PIPS and UAI (58.79% and 50.27%, respectively). In the distal canals, the %Rd of AHTD was significantly different between PIPS and SWEEPS and between UAI and SWEEPS (P < 0.05), but was not significantly different between PIPS and UAI groups (P > 0.05). The SWEEPS was associated with a greater %Rd of AHTD than the PIPS and UAI groups.

Conclusions

SWEEPS was associated with significantly less debris compared than PIPS and UAI, especially in isthmus‐containing mesial roots. None of the activation techniques completely removed debris from root canal systems.
Testicular cancer: a 13‐year retrospective review of ethnic disparities in the Waikato region, New Zealand
Authors: Hari Dass Prashanth , B. Jameson Michael
Published: November 2019

Background

The testicular cancer incidence in New Zealand is rising. We evaluated if testicular cancer outcomes differed by ethnicity in NZ.

Aims

To study if ethnic disparities existed among testicular cancer patients and their outcomes treated at Waikato Regional Cancer Centre.

Methods

Retrospective review of testicular cancer cases in the Medical Oncology database, Waikato Hospital, between 2001 and 2013 inclusive.

Results

Three hundred and twenty‐five patients were seen, with median follow up of survivors being 101 (range 13–230) months. 95 (29.2%) were Māori, 210 (64.6%) NZ European and 20 (6.1%) of other ethnicity. One hundred and eighty‐two patients were diagnosed with seminoma and 143 with non‐seminoma. Māori represented 27.5% of seminoma and 31.4% of non‐seminoma patients. Median age at diagnosis was 39 years for seminoma and 30 years for non‐seminoma; Māori were significantly younger than non‐ Māori for both seminoma (median age 35 versus 42 years) and non‐seminoma (median age 28 vs 34 years, respectively). While stage distribution of seminoma at diagnosis was similar for Māori and non‐Māori (chi‐squared P = 0.31), significantly more Māori had higher‐stage non‐seminoma than non‐Māori (stage III in 44% and 22%, respectively, chi‐squared P = 0.014). Survival for seminoma (logrank P = 0.19) and non‐seminoma (logrank P = 0.89) patients did not differ significantly by ethnicity.

Conclusions

Māori patients were younger at diagnosis of testicular cancer and presented with more advanced non‐seminoma testicular tumours compared with non‐Māori but survival was comparable.
Quality of care in inflammatory bowel disease: actual health service experiences fall short of the standards
Authors: Mikocka‐Walus Antonina , Massuger Wayne , Knowles Simon R. , Moore Gregory T. , Buckton Stephanie , Connell William , Pavli Paul , Raven Leanne , Andrews Jane M.
Published: November 2019

Background

Quality of care in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has received much attention internationally; however, the available surveys focus on health professionals rather than patients.

Aims

To assess the experiences of healthcare for people living with IBD against established Australian IBD Standards.

Methods

An online cross‐sectional survey was conducted with Australians ≥16 years old recruited via Crohn's & Colitis Australia membership, public and private clinics and the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Participants completed a questionnaire incorporating items addressing the Australian IBD Standards 2016, the Picker Patient Experience Questionnaire, IBD Control Survey and the Manitoba Index.

Results

Complete data were provided by 731 respondents (71.5% female, median age 46 years, ranging from 16 to 84 years). While the majority (74.8%) were satisfied with their IBD healthcare, the care reported did not meet the Australian IBD Standards. Overall, 32.4% had access to IBD nurses, 30.9% to a dietician and 12% to a psychologist in their treating team. Participants managed by public IBD clinics were most likely to have access to an IBD nurse (83.7%), helpline (80.7%) and research trials (37%). One third of respondents reported waiting >14 days to see a specialist when their IBD flared. Participants received enough information, mostly from medical specialists (88.8%) and IBD nurses (79.4%). However, 51% wanted to be more involved in their healthcare.

Conclusions

These data show discordance between expectations of patients and national standards with current levels of service provision, which fail to deliver equitable and comprehensive IBD care.
Sub‐acute hyponatraemia more than chronic hyponatraemia is associated with serious falls and hip fractures
Authors: Bhandari Simran K. , Adams Annette L. , Li Bonnie H. , Rhee Connie M. , Sundar Shirin , Krasa Holly , Danforth Kim N. , Kanter Michael H. , Kalantar‐Zadeh Kamyar , Jacobsen Steven J. , Sim John J.
Published: November 2019

Background

Falls and hip fractures among older people are associated with high morbidity and mortality. Hyponatraemia may be a risk for falls/hip fractures, but the effect of hyponatraemia duration is not well understood.

Aims

To evaluate individuals with periods of sub‐acute and chronic hyponatraemia on subsequent risk for serious falls and/or hip fractures.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study in the period 1 January 1998 to 14 June 2016 within an integrated health system of individuals aged ≥55 years with ≥2 outpatient serum sodium measurements. Hyponatraemia was defined as sodium <135 mEq/L with sub‐acute (<30 days) and chronic (≥30 days) analysed as a time‐dependent exposure. Multivariable Cox proportional‐hazards modelling was used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) for serious falls/hip fractures based on sodium category.

Results

Among 1 062 647 individuals totalling 9 762 305 sodium measurements, 96 096 serious falls/hip fracture events occurred. Incidence (per‐1000‐person‐years) of serious falls/hip fractures were 11.5, 27.9 and 19.8 for normonatraemia, sub‐acute and chronic hyponatraemia. Any hyponatraemia duration compared to normonatraemia had a serious falls/hip fractures HR (95%CI) of 1.18 (1.15, 1.22), with sub‐acute and chronic hyponatraemia having HR of 1.38 (1.33, 1.42) and 0.91 (0.87, 0.95), respectively. Examined separately, the serious falls HR was 1.37 (1.32, 1.42) and 0.92 (0.88, 0.96) in sub‐acute and chronic hyponatraemia, respectively. Hip fracture HR were 1.52 (1.42, 1.62) and 1.00 (0.92, 1.08) for sub‐acute and chronic hyponatraemia, respectively, compared to normonatraemia.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that early/sub‐acute hyponatraemia appears more vulnerable and associated with serious falls/hip fractures. Whether hyponatraemia is a marker of frailty or a modifiable risk factor for falls remains to be determined.
Characteristics of H7N9 avian influenza pneumonia: a retrospective analysis of 17 cases
Authors: Yu Wen‐Qing , Ji Ning‐Fei , Ding Ming‐Dong , Gu Cheng‐Jing , Ma Yuan , Wu Zhen‐Zhen , Wang Yan‐Li , Wu Chao‐Jie , Dai Gui‐Hong , Chen Yan , Jin Rong‐Rong , Tan Yi‐Bin , Yang Zhu , Zhou Da‐Ming , Xian Jian‐Chun , Xu Hong‐Tao , Huang Mao
Published: November 2019

Background

H7N9 avian influenza is an infection of public health concern, in part because of its high mortality rate and pandemic potential.

Aims

To describe the clinical features of H7N9 avian influenza and the response to treatment.

Methods

Clinical, radiological and histopathological data, and treatment‐related of H7N9‐infected patients hospitalised during 2014–2017 were extracted and analysed.

Results

A total of 17 H7N9 patients (three females; mean age, 58.4 ± 13.7 years) was identified; of these six died. All patients presented with fever and productive cough; four patients had haemoptysis and 13 had chest distress and/or shortness of breath. Early subnormal white blood cell count and elevation of serum liver enzymes were common. Multilobar patchy shadows, rapid progression to ground‐glass opacities, air bronchograms and consolidation were the most common imaging findings. Histopathological examination of lung tissue of three patients who died showed severe alveolar epithelial cell damage, with inflammatory exudation into the alveolar space and hyaline membrane formation; widened alveolar septae, prominent inflammatory cell infiltration; and hyperplasia of pneumocytes. Viral inclusions were found in the lung tissue of two patients. All patients received antiviral drugs (oseltamivir ± peramivir). Four patients carried the rs12252‐C/C interferon‐induced transmembrane protein‐3 (IFITM3) genotype, while the others had the C/T genotype.

Conclusions

H7N9 virus infection causes human influenza‐like symptoms, but may rapidly progress to severe pneumonia and even death. Clinicians should be alert to the possibility of H7N9 infection in high‐risk patients. The presence of the IFITM3 rs12252‐C genotype may predict severe illness.
Long noncoding RNA TUG1 contributes to cerebral ischaemia/reperfusion injury by sponging mir‐145 to up‐regulate AQP4 expression
Authors: Shan Weifeng , Chen Wei , Zhao Xian , Pei Aijie , Chen Manli , Yu Yang , Zheng Yueying , Zhu Shengmei
Published: November 2019

Emerging studies have shown that long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) TUG1 (taurine‐up‐regulated gene 1) plays critical roles in multiple biological processes. However, the expression and function of lncRNA TUG1 in cerebral ischaemia/reperfusion injury have not been reported yet. In this study, we found that LncRNA TUG1 expression was significantly up‐regulated in cultured MA‐C cells exposed to OGD/R injury, while similar results were also observed in MCAO model. Mechanistically, knockdown of TUG1 decreased lactate dehydrogenase levels and the ratio of apoptotic cells and promoted cell survival in vitro. Moreover, knockdown of TUG1 decreased AQP4 (encoding aquaporin 4) expression to attenuate OGD/R injury. TUG1 could interact directly with miR‐145, and down‐regulation of miR‐145 could efficiently reverse the function of TUG1 siRNA on AQP4 expression. Finally, the TUG1 shRNA reduced the infarction area and cell apoptosis in I/R mouse brains in vivo. In summary, our results suggested that lncRNA TUG1 may function as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) for miR‐145 to induce cell damage, possibly providing a new therapeutic target in cerebral ischaemia/reperfusion injury.
Deficiency of Macf1 in osterix expressing cells decreases bone formation by Bmp2/Smad/Runx2 pathway
Authors: Qiu Wu‐Xia , Ma Xiao‐Li , Lin Xiao , Zhao Fan , Li Di‐Jie , Chen Zhi‐Hao , Zhang Ke‐Wen , Zhang Ru , Wang Pai , Xiao Yun‐Yun , Miao Zhi‐Ping , Dang Kai , Wu Xiao‐Yang , Qian Ai‐Rong
Published: November 2019

Microtubule actin cross‐linking factor 1 (Macf1) is a spectraplakin family member known to regulate cytoskeletal dynamics, cell migration, neuronal growth and cell signal transduction. We previously demonstrated that knockdown of Macf1 inhibited the differentiation of MC3T3‐E1 cell line. However, whether Macf1 could regulate bone formation in vivo is unclear. To study the function and mechanism of Macf1 in bone formation and osteogenic differentiation, we established osteoblast‐specific Osterix (Osx) promoter‐driven Macf1 conditional knockout mice (Macf1f/fOsx‐Cre). The Macf1f/fOsx‐Cre mice displayed delayed ossification and decreased bone mass. Morphological and mechanical studies showed deteriorated trabecular microarchitecture and impaired biomechanical strength of femur in Macf1f/fOsx‐Cre mice. In addition, the differentiation of primary osteoblasts isolated from calvaria was inhibited in Macf1f/fOsx‐Cre mice. Deficiency of Macf1 in primary osteoblasts inhibited the expression of osteogenic marker genes (Col1, Runx2 and Alp) and the number of mineralized nodules. Furthermore, deficiency of Macf1 attenuated Bmp2/Smad/Runx2 signalling in primary osteoblasts of Macf1f/fOsx‐Cre mice. Together, these results indicated that Macf1 plays a significant role in bone formation and osteoblast differentiation by regulating Bmp2/Smad/Runx2 pathway, suggesting that Macf1 might be a therapeutic target for bone disease.
Insights into the pathogenesis of ATP1A1‐related CMT disease using patient‐specific iPSCs
Authors: Manganelli Fiore , Parisi Silvia , Nolano Maria , Miceli Francesco , Tozza Stefano , Pisciotta Chiara , Iodice Rosa , Provitera Vincenzo , Cicatiello Rita , Zuchner Stephan , Taglialatela Maurizio , Russo Tommaso , Santoro Lucio
Published: November 2019

The development of patient‐specific induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) offered interesting insights in modeling the pathogenesis of Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth (CMT) disease and thus we decided to explore the phenotypes of iPSCs derived from a single CMT patient carrying a mutant ATP1A1 allele (p.Pro600Ala). iPSCs clones generated from CMT and control fibroblasts, were induced to differentiate into neural precursors and then into post‐mitotic neurons. Control iPSCs differentiated into neuronal precursors and then into post‐mitotic neurons within 6‐8 days. On the contrary, the differentiation of CMT iPSCs was clearly defective. Electrophysiological properties confirmed that post‐mitotic neurons were less mature compared to the normal counterpart. The impairment of in vitro differentiation of CMT iPSCs only concerned with the neuronal pathway, because they were able to differentiate into mesendodermal cells and other ectodermal derivatives. ATP1A1 was undetectable in the few neuronal cells derived from CMT iPSCs. ATP1A1 gene mutation (p.Pro600Ala), responsible for a form of axonal CMT disease, is associated in vitro with a dramatic alteration of the differentiation of patient‐derived iPSCs into post‐mitotic neurons. Thus, the defect in neuronal cell development might lead in vivo to a decreased number of mature neurons in ATP1A1‐CMT disease.
Protective effects of L‐arginine on the intestinal epithelial barrier under heat stress conditions in rats and IEC‐6 cell line
Authors: Huang Liqing , Yin Peng , Liu Fenghua , Liu Yilin , Liu Yanhan , Xia Zhaofei
Published: November 2019

Heat stress (HS) and the associated restricted blood flow to the intestine have been proven to destroy intestinal integrity. Considering the beneficial properties of L‐arginine on gut function, we investigated the protective effects of L‐arginine on the intestine under HS conditions. In vivo, the serum cortisol level and the rectal temperature increased in response to HS. Under HS, the intestinal damage showed obvious morphological changes. Furthermore, HS decreased the mRNA and protein expression levels of Nurr1, ZO‐1, occludin, claudin‐6 and E‐cadherin, increased the mRNA expression of NF‐κB and IL‐1β, and increased the protein expression of cleaved caspase‐3. In contrast, L‐arginine supplementation maintained intestinal integrity and increased the villus/crypt ratio. L‐arginine also suppressed the expression of inflammation‐related genes and the protein expression of cleaved caspase‐3, whereas it upregulated the mRNA and protein expression of tight junction proteins and LC3B protein expression. In vitro, L‐arginine attenuated HS‐induced apoptosis as demonstrated by flow cytometry and decreased cleaved caspase‐3 protein expression. L‐arginine induced autophagy, which was demonstrated by decreased expression of p62 and p‐mTOR/mTOR, and increased expression of LC3B. The protein expression levels of TJ proteins also enhanced by L‐arginine in IEC‐6 cells. Taken together, these results suggest that L‐arginine can alleviate intestinal damage and protect the intestinal integrity by suppressing local inflammation response, promoting the production of TJs and facilitating autophagy under HS conditions.