bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Delineating the people-related features required for construction digitalisation
Authors: Aghimien Douglas , Aigbavboa Clinton , Oke Ayodeji Emmanuel , Aliu John
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Digitalisation, which involves the use of digital technologies in transforming an organisation’s activities, transcends just the acquiring of emerging digital tools. Having the right people to drive the implementation of these technologies and attaining strategic organisational goals is essential. While most studies have focused on the use of emerging technologies in the construction industry, less attention has been given to the ‘people’ dimension. Therefore, this study aims to assess the people-related features needed for construction digitalisation.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted pragmatic thinking using a mixed-method approach. A Delphi was used to achieve the qualitative aspect of the research, while a questionnaire survey conducted among 222 construction professionals was used to achieve the quantitative aspect. The data gathered were analysed using frequency, percentage, mean item score, Kruskal–Wallis H test, exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis.

Findings

Based on acceptable reliability, validity and model fit indices, the study found that the people-related factors needed for construction digitalisation can be grouped into technical capability of personnel, attracting and retaining digital talent and organisation’s digital culture.

Practical implications

The findings offer valuable benefits to construction organisations as understanding these identified people features can help lead to better deployment of digital tools and the attainment of the digital transformation.

Originality/value

This study attempts to fill the gap in the shortage of literature exploring the people dimension of construction digitalisation. The study offers an excellent theoretical backdrop for future works on digital talent for construction digitalisation, which has gained less attention in the current construction digitalisation discourse.
An inverse analysis of the brain cooling process in neonates using the particle filter method
Authors: Nunes Felipe Sant'Anna , Orlande Helcio R.B. , Nowak Andrzej J.
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study deals with the computational simulation and inverse analysis of the cooling treatment of the hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy in neonates. A reduced-order model is implemented for real-time monitoring of the internal body temperatures. The purpose of this study is to sequentially estimate the transient temperatures of the brain and other body regions with reduced uncertainties.

Design/methodology/approach

Pennes’ model was applied in each body element, and Fiala’s blood pool concept was used for the solution of the forward bioheat transfer problem. A state estimation problem was solved with the Sampling Importance Resampling (SIR) algorithm of the particle filter method.

Findings

The particle filter method was stable and accurate for the estimation of the internal body temperatures, even in situations involving large modeling and measurement uncertainties.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed reduced-order model was verified with the results of a high-fidelity model available in the literature. Validation of the proposed model and of the solution of the state estimation problem shall be pursued in the future.

Practical implications

The solution of the state estimation problem with the reduced-order model presented in this paper has great potential to perform as an observer of the brain temperature of neonates, for the analysis and control of the systemic cooling treatment of neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy.

Social implications

The main treatment for hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy in neonates is the cooling of affected regions. Accurate and fast models might allow the development of individualized protocols, as well as control strategies for the cooling treatment.

Originality/value

This paper presents the application of the SIR algorithm for the solution of a state problem during the systemic cooling of a neonate for the treatment of the hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy.
The risks and opportunities of social procurement in construction projects: a cross-sector collaboration perspective
Authors: Loosemore Martin , Keast Robyn , Barraket Josephine , Denny-Smith George , Alkilani Suhair
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This research addresses the lack of project management research into social procurement by exploring the risks and opportunities of social procurement from a cross-sector collaboration perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

A content analysis of five focus groups conducted with thirty-five stakeholders involved in the implementation of a unique social procurement initiative on a major Australian construction project is reported.

Findings

Results show little collective understanding among project stakeholders for what social procurement policies can achieve, a focus on downside risk rather than upside opportunity and perceptions of distributive injustice about the way new social procurement risks are being managed. Also highlighted is the tension between the collaborative intent of social procurement requirements and the dynamic, fragmented and temporary project-based construction industry into which they are being introduced. Ironically, this can lead to opportunistic behaviours to the detriment of the vulnerable people these policies are meant to help.

Practical implications

The paper concludes by presenting a new conceptual framework of project risk and opportunity management from a social procurement perspective. Deficiencies in the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) are also highlighted around an expanded project management role in meeting these new project management requirements.

Originality/value

Social procurement is becoming increasingly popular in many countries as a collaborative mechanism to ensure construction and infrastructure projects contribute positively to the communities in which they are built. This research addresses the lack of project management research into social procurement by exploring the risks and opportunities of social procurement from a cross-sector collaboration perspective.
Strategic asset-seeking foreign direct investments by emerging market firms: the role of institutional distance
Authors: Yang Yang , Xu Jia , Allen Jonathan P. , Yang Xiaohua
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study examines the impact of formal and informal institutional distances on the foreign ownership strategies of emerging market firms (EMFs).

Design/methodology/approach

This is an empirical study relying on two sets of data collected over two time periods, 2006–2008 and 2017–2019, for publicly-listed Chinese companies.

Findings

Greater formal institutional distances in the host and home countries make EMFs less likely to use joint ventures (JVs), while greater informal distances make EMFs more likely to use the JVs. When both formal and informal institutional distances are high, the use of JVs is more likely. These results are affected by the goal of the foreign direct investment (FDI) project, with strategic asset-seeking (SAS) FDI projects favoring the use of wholly owned subsidiaries (WOSs).

Research limitations/implications

This study relies on cross-sectional data from publicly-listed Chinese companies, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.

Practical implications

EMFs investing in advanced countries should carefully assess the tradeoffs between transactional cost efficiency and legitimacy in making their foreign ownership decisions. If the goal is to access strategic assets, EMFs should consider WOSs to ensure the transfer of strategic assets and create value for the parent company.

Originality/value

The findings show that formal and informal distances between institutions have different impacts on foreign ownership strategies, providing empirical evidence for the need to balance conflicting cost-efficiency and legitimacy considerations when businesses make such strategic decisions. The authors show how this balance depends on the goal of the FDI project.
A new federated genetic algorithm-based optimization technique for multi-criteria vehicle route planning using ArcGIS network analyst
Authors: Albalawneh Da’ad Ahmad , Mohamed M.A.
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Using a real-time road network combined with historical traffic data for Al-Salt city, the paper aims to propose a new federated genetic algorithm (GA)-based optimization technique to solve the dynamic vehicle routing problem. Using a GA solver, the estimated routing time for 300 chromosomes (routes) was the shortest and most efficient over 30 generations.

Design/methodology/approach

In transportation systems, the objective of route planning techniques has been revised from focusing on road directors to road users. As a result, the new transportation systems use advanced technologies to support drivers and provide them with the road information they need and the services they require to reduce traffic congestion and improve routing problems. In recent decades, numerous studies have been conducted on how to find an efficient and suitable route for vehicles, known as the vehicle routing problem (VRP). To identify the best route, VRP uses real-time information-acquired geographical information systems (GIS) tools.

Findings

This study aims to develop a route planning tool using ArcGIS network analyst to enhance both cost and service quality measures, taking into account several factors to determine the best route based on the users’ preferences.

Originality/value

Furthermore, developing a route planning tool using ArcGIS network analyst to enhance both cost and service quality measures, taking into account several factors to determine the best route based on the users’ preferences. An adaptive genetic algorithm (GA) is used to determine the optimal time route, taking into account factors that affect vehicle arrival times and cause delays. In addition, ArcGIS' Network Analyst tool is used to determine the best route based on the user's preferences using a real-time map.
Coping strategies initiated by COVID-19-related stress, individuals' motives for social media use, and perceived stress reduction
Authors: Bae Mikyeung
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study examined whether individuals' coping strategies and their motivations for social media use act as mediators between actual COVID-19-related stress and the perception that social media use can reduce stress.

Design/methodology/approach

This study empirically develops and tests a research model with data (N = 503) collected through Amazon Mechanical Turk. A path analysis was used to test the research model.

Findings

The path analysis indicated that active coping initiated by individuals under COVID-19-related stress was more likely to be associated with information and social interaction needs, leading the individuals to perceive the use of social media as the cause for stress reduction. The expressive support coping strategy motivated the individuals under stress to seek social interaction, leading individuals to perceive that activities on social media reduced their stress during the pandemic. Emotional venting and avoidance coping strategies significantly impacted escape, social interaction, and entertainment seeking by allowing individuals to get absorbed in social media activities and forget unpleasant thoughts associated with the pandemic.

Originality/value

No previous study has explored the relationship between decisions around the type of coping strategy used and motivations for media usage, which leads to stress reduction. Understanding how stress-induced coping strategies influence social media users' specific motivations and reduce users' stress levels would help communicators understand how users' can encourage individuals to cope with stress by presenting individuals with more effective social media, resulting in stress reduction and improved well-being.
VR tourism experiences and tourist behavior intention in COVID-19: an experience economy and mood management perspective
Authors: Leung Wilson K.S. , Chang Man Kit , Cheung Man Lai , Shi Si
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Virtual reality (VR) technology is a potential tool for tourism marketers to maintain the attractiveness of their destinations and recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the effectiveness of VR technology in motivating potential tourists' visit intention under lockdown conditions remains unknown. An integrated model based on the experience economy framework and mood management theory was, therefore, used to explain how tourists' VR experiences affect their mood management processes and subsequent behaviors. This research also examined how perceived travel risk influenced the relationship between mood management processes and future decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a cross-sectional design based on a sample collected from a Chinese survey company, Sojump. The author surveyed 285 respondents who had experienced VR tourism activities during the COVID-19 pandemic. The research model was tested using partial least squares–structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results demonstrated that the four dimensions of VR experiences differently affected mood management processes, while perceived travel risk differently moderated the influence of mood management processes on visit intention and VR stickiness. This provides insights for tourism marketers to adapt to the current tourism environment and develop recovery strategies.

Originality/value

In response to gaps in the literature, this research examined the effectiveness of VR technology in driving tourists' visit intention during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing insights for tourism marketers to successfully implement VR tourism and plan timely recovery strategies.
Impact of insecurity on enterprise development in Nigeria
Authors: Omeje Ambrose Nnaemeka , Jideofor Mba Augustine , Anyanwu Ogochukwu Christiana
Published: May 2022

Purpose

In Nigeria, insecurity has been breeding very rapidly given the Nigerian economic conditions in the recent past. Insecurity exposes enterprise development and survival to a serious threat. It has serious effects on lives and properties, obstructs business activities and discourages local and foreign investors, which in turn militate against Nigeria’s overall economic growth and development. This rising wave of insecurity has assumed an unsafe facet to enterprise development and its subsequent survival, hence, if unchecked, it can threaten the overall communal existence of the country as one entity. The purpose of this study is therefore, to examine the impact of insecurity on enterprise development in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used the most recent Nigeria Enterprise Survey data (2014) and applied multi-nomial logistic regression model to examine the impact of insecurity on enterprise development in Nigeria.

Findings

It was found among others that all the captured insecurity variables in this study have negative significant impact on enterprise development and as such significantly retards enterprise growth and development except for corruption and availability of strong, fair and impartial legal system (comparing partnership and limited partnership enterprise to the sole proprietorship), which were found to have positive impact on enterprise development in Nigeria.

Practical implications

This study therefore recommended among others that government at all levels – federal, state and local – should try harder to live up to its primary constitutional function of providing adequate security of lives and property to its citizenry.

Originality/value

There is no known study that has investigated the impact of insecurity on enterprise development in Nigeria. There is dearth of literature in the study area, hence this study enormously contributes to the growing literature on insecurity and enterprise development.
The mechanism of the influence of coaching leadership behavior on subordinate’s sense of gain at work
Authors: Wang Jing , Gu Yinhua , Luo Yu , Huang Yalin , Liao Liping
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the mechanism of influence on the subordinate's sense of gain at work (SGW) in terms of the coaching leadership behavior (CL), supervisor-subordinate guanxi (SSG) and commitment-based practice of human resource management (CHRM).

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the survey of 584 employees from 50 firms operating in China, this study explores the effect of CL on employees’ SGW, which concerns two dimensions: sense of material gain and sense of spiritual gain.

Findings

Results show that the CL has a significant positive influence on both the subordinate’s sense of material gain and his/her sense of spiritual gain, in which there exists a mediating effect of SSG and moderating effects of CHRM for the influence.

Practical implications

This study not only develops the theory of SGW, but also provides a scientific basis and policy suggestions for employers to implement in order to enhance their employees’ SGW.

Originality/value

Few integrative studies have examined the impact of CL on employees’ SGW. Based on the Need-to-Belong Theory, this study adds new empirical evidence and constructs a theoretical model for the mechanism of influence on the SGW, examines the influence of CL on the subordinate’s SGW and finds a mechanism of transmission (SSG) and a boundary condition (CHRM) for the influence.
Paranoiabox.ru: Russian start-up growth decision dilemma
Authors: Dementieva Alla , Kandinskaia Olga , Khotyasheva Olga
Published: May 2022

Theoretical basis

The novelty of this case is the multidisciplinary focus where the aspects of entrepreneurship, marketing strategy and finance are mixed together. Students are expected to apply their knowledge of Business Model Canvas and Marketing 4.0, as well as learn about the new type of entrepreneurial finance such as crowdfunding. The setting of this case is novel too – the new quest games industry in Russia. Finally, the novelty of this case is its format where the protagonists’ interview is available as a podcast, and thus, the students will need to review only the tables and the appendices.

Research methodology

This decision case was field researched by the authors who interviewed the founders of this start-up and the business incubator (BI) director. No information was disguised in any way. Also, the secondary research on the main trends in the development of the international and Russian quest markets was completed by the authors in the preparation of this case.

Case overview/synopsis

Paranoiabox.ru case presents an entrepreneurial and strategic marketing decision situation. In May 2019, in Moscow, Russia, two young residents of the MGIMO University BI, Anastasia and Max, founded the start-up business called Paranoiabox.ru. This project was a quest in a new format with home delivery: a mixture of escape, detective and board game. The player received by post a box containing various objects. Interacting with them, he/she unraveled the plot thread, found clues and gradually approached the final clue. The game with complex copyright puzzles had a built-in hint system and provided mechanisms for interaction online. By July 2019, 30 boxes for their first quest were sold. The subscribers were waiting for a new quest. Despite the first sales, Anastasia and Max had no budget for hiring freelancers or outsourcing. They were faced with an urgent and challenging dilemma: whether to concentrate on the current product sales and spend all the budget on promotion or, alternatively, to launch a series of new quests and focus on the target market with high brand awareness. There was an additional funding dilemma: should they apply for crowdfunding?

Complexity academic level

This case is a multidisciplinary case with the aspects of entrepreneurship, marketing strategy and finance. This case is intended primarily for a course in entrepreneurship at the undergraduate or graduate level. This case is also ideal to be used as a capstone project in a degree programme for entrepreneurs.
The changing portrayal of children in Indian advertisements: a comparative study of the three decades
Authors: Choudhary Sharuti , Roy Subhadip
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study aims to analyse the roles in which children have been portrayed in advertisements over three decades (1990–2000, 2000–2010 and 2010–2020) and what have been the changes in the portrayal of the children, including the changes in product type and target audience.

Design/methodology/approach

The content of 212 television advertisements was analysed for the study; 32 advertisements belonged to 1990–2000, 38 belonged to 2000–2010 and 142 belonged to 2010–2020.

Findings

It could be observed that in 2010–2020, marketers had primarily focused on children as their central idea behind making any advertisement. They were projecting children as an emotional and informational tool for attracting adults and children, directly or indirectly.

Research limitations/implications

The implications of this study are manifold. Firstly, the study supports the theories of socialisation and the changing role of children in the same. Secondly, the trend over the decades hints at the marketer’s changing strategy behind using children in advertisements to target adult audiences.

Practical implications

The significant implication for the practitioner is the possibility of having a child protagonist in an ad for the non-children target audience.

Originality/value

This paper is one of the first to analyse the changing role of children in advertisements over a long time horizon.
Milk permeate medium for the production of selenium nanoparticles by lactic acid bacteria
Authors: Zommara Mohsen , Omran Mayada , Ghanimah Mohamed
Published: May 2022

The ability of Levilactobacillus brevis, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Pediococcus lolii to grow and produce selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) in milk permeate or MRS media supplemented with 100 or 200 ppm of inorganic selenium, in the form of sodium selenite (SeIV), was investigated. The permeate medium enhanced the acidity development (reduction of pH) for the three strains; however, MRS medium was more suitable for the lactic acid bacteria strains. Despite these results, the conversion rate of SeIV to SeNPs among all strains was almost similar (99.0–100%) in permeate vs (97.6–100%) in MRS media. Milk permeate medium produced smaller SeNPs particles compared to MRS medium.
Urate‐lowering therapy for patients with gout on hemodialysis
Authors: Alkilany Reem , Einstadter Douglas , Antonelli Maria
Published: May 2022

Objective

Gout is the most common form of inflammatory arthritis and is caused by deposition of monosodium urate crystals resulting from a high burden of uric acid (UA). High UA burden also has been associated with increased morbidity and mortality in the general population and progression to chronic kidney disease. In persons with gout and end‐stage renal disease (ESRD), prior studies suggest that UA levels decrease after initiation of hemodialysis (HD). We evaluated UA level and the use of urate‐lowering therapies (ULTs) in patients with gout and ESRD on HD.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of patients with gout and ESRD seen at a large urban public hospital (The MetroHealth System). We extracted data from the medical record (Epic) for patients diagnosed with gout and ESRD on HD. The main outcomes were the UA level and the use of ULTs before and after HD initiation.

Results

We identified 131 patients with gout on HD. Of these, 21 patients had crystal proven gout diagnosis, 10 of whom had data on UA level pre‐HD and post‐HD and were included in the analysis. For the total sample (N = 21), the mean age was 65 years, 7 were female and 20 were African American. Mean pre‐HD and post‐HD UA levels were 8.4 and 3.98 mg/dL respectively. Twenty‐one patients were receiving ULT pre‐HD, 11 discontinued post‐HD.

Conclusion

Among patients with gout and ESRD, we observed a decrease in UA level associated with initiation of HD. For this group, discontinuation of ULTs may be appropriate.
Conditional catheter‐related thrombosis free probability and risk‐adapted choices of catheter for lung cancer
Authors: Wang Yanfeng , Cui Chanjuan , Liu Xin , Deng Lei , Yang Ke , Li Bin , Xue Jie , Xie Junying , Cui Wei
Published: May 2022

Background

Current predictive tools assess catheter‐related thrombosis (CRT) in patients with lung cancer in a static manner at a single time point of catheterization. The subsequent hazard changes over time are unknown. The conditional catheter‐related thrombosis‐free probability (CCFP) can provide dynamic information on continual CRT‐free expectations. This study aimed to assess the CCFP and hazard rates based on risk categories and various venous access devices (VADs).

Methods

This retrospective study reviewed 939 patients with lung cancer with peripherally inserted central venous catheters (PICCs) or central venous catheters (CVCs) identified at the National Clinical Research Center for Cancer between January 1, 2015 and December 31, 2018. The incidence of CRT has also been reported. Patients were stratified into low‐ and high‐risk groups according to multivariate Cox regression analyses. CCFP is defined as the CRT‐free probability given that patients have no CRT for a definite time.

Results

A total of 507 patients with PICCs and 432 patients with CVCs were included in this study. The 3‐month CCFP increased from 74.2% at catheter insertion to 93.6% at 3 months. The hazards of CRT in the first month were highest (16.4%) and slightly thereafter. The high‐risk group initially had a higher (21.4%) but significantly decreased CRT hazard after 2 months (8.3%), whereas the low‐risk group maintained a comparable lower risk hazard of less than 5% after 1 month. In the overall cohort, patients with CVCs had lower CRT probability than those with PICCs (HR, 1.76; 95% CI: 1.28–2.41; p < 0.01). Further analysis demonstrated that compared with PICCs, CVCs provided a CRT‐free benefit in low‐risk patients (p = 0.02) but not in high‐risk patients (p = 0.06).

Conclusions

CCFP increased, and the hazards of CRT decreased over time in a risk‐dependent manner in patients with lung cancer. These valuable dynamic data may help optimize risk‐adjusted choices of VADs and risk‐adjusted prophylactic anticoagulation strategies for patients.
Sensitivity, specificity, and tolerability of the BACTrack Skyn compared to other alcohol monitoring approaches among young adults in a field‐based setting
Authors: Ash Garrett I. , Gueorguieva Ralitza , Barnett Nancy P. , Wang Wuyi , Robledo David S. , DeMartini Kelly S. , Pittman Brian , Redeker Nancy S. , O’Malley Stephanie S. , Fucito Lisa M.
Published: May 2022

Background

There is a need for novel alcohol biosensors that are accurate, able to detect alcohol concentration close in time to consumption, and feasible and acceptable for many clinical and research applications. We evaluated the field accuracy and tolerability of novel (BACTrack Skyn) and established (Alcohol Monitoring Systems SCRAM CAM) alcohol biosensors.

Methods

The sensor and diary data were collected in a larger study of a biofeedback intervention and compared observationally in the present sub‐study. Participants (high‐risk drinkers, 40% female; median age 21) wore both Skyn and SCRAM CAM sensors for 1–6 days and were instructed to drink as usual. Data from the first cohort of participants (N = 27; 101 person‐days) were used to find threshold values of transdermal alcohol that classified each day as meeting or not meeting defined levels of drinking (heavy, above‐moderate, any). These values were used to develop scoring metrics that were subsequently tested using the second cohort (N = 20; 57 person‐days). Data from both biosensors were compared to mobile diary self‐report to evaluate sensitivity and specificity in relation to a priori standards established in the literature.

Results

Skyn classification rules for Cohort #1 within 3 months of device shipment showed excellent sensitivity for heavy drinking (94%) and exceeded expectations for above‐moderate and any drinking (78% and 69%, respectively), while specificity met expectations (91%). However, classification worsened when Cohort #1 devices ≥3 months from shipment were tested (area under curve for receiver operator characteristic 0.87 vs. 0.79) and the derived classification threshold when applied to Cohort #2 was inadequately specific (70%). Skyn tolerability metrics were excellent and exceeded the SCRAM CAM (p ≤ 0.001).

Conclusions

Skyn tolerability was favorable and accuracy rules were internally derivable but did not yield useful scoring metrics going forward across device lots and months of usage.
T‐cell recovery and evidence of persistent immune activation 12 months after severe COVID‐19
Authors: Taeschler Patrick , Adamo Sarah , Deng Yun , Cervia Carlo , Zurbuchen Yves , Chevrier Stéphane , Raeber Miro E. , Hasler Sara , Bächli Esther , Rudiger Alain , Stüssi‐Helbling Melina , Huber Lars C. , Bodenmiller Bernd , Boyman Onur , Nilsson Jakob
Published: May 2022

Background

T‐cell lymphopenia and functional impairment is a hallmark of severe acute coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). How T‐cell numbers and function evolve at later timepoints after clinical recovery remains poorly investigated.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled and longitudinally sampled 173 individuals with asymptomatic to critical COVID‐19 and analyzed phenotypic and functional characteristics of T cells using flow cytometry, 40‐parameter mass cytometry, targeted proteomics, and functional assays.

Results

The extensive T‐cell lymphopenia observed particularly in patients with severe COVID‐19 during acute infection had recovered 6 months after infection, which was accompanied by a normalization of functional T‐cell responses to common viral antigens. We detected persisting CD4+ and CD8+ T‐cell activation up to 12 months after infection, in patients with mild and severe COVID‐19, as measured by increased HLA‐DR and CD38 expression on these cells. Persistent T‐cell activation after COVID‐19 was independent of administration of a COVID‐19 vaccine post‐infection. Furthermore, we identified a subgroup of patients with severe COVID‐19 that presented with persistently low CD8+ T‐cell counts at follow‐up and exhibited a distinct phenotype during acute infection consisting of a dysfunctional T‐cell response and signs of excessive pro‐inflammatory cytokine production.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that T‐cell numbers and function recover in most patients after COVID‐19. However, we find evidence of persistent T‐cell activation up to 12 months after infection and describe a subgroup of severe COVID‐19 patients with persistently low CD8+ T‐cell counts exhibiting a dysregulated immune response during acute infection.
“I sort of never felt like I should be worried about it or that I could be worried about it’” an interpretative phenomenological analysis of perceived barriers to disclosure by young people with coeliac disease
Authors: Wheeler Miranda , David Annabel L. , Kennedy Juliet , Knight Matthew
Published: May 2022

Objectives

There has been little research in the United Kingdom regarding young people's experiences of disclosure of psychological difficulties relating to coeliac disease (CD) to others, particularly healthcare professionals. This study sought to address this systematically with a focus on the lived experiences of young people with CD. This study aimed to gain insight into how paediatric gastroenterology services could improve the patient experience for those with CD and support the identification of patients who may benefit from further psychological support.

Design

This study used interpretive phenomenological analysis (IPA) of patient accounts.

Methods

Seven young people with CD (aged 11–16 years) were recruited from a UK hospital paediatric gastroenterology service. Semi‐structured interviews were carried out and verbatim transcripts were analysed using IPA to explore young people's experiences of CD and why they might feel able or unable to disclose psychological difficulties associated with their condition to clinicians.

Results

Three superordinate themes were interpreted from the data. The first encapsulated experiences of adjusting to the diagnosis within a developmental context, including the role of adults in information provision and the importance of peer support. The second outlined experiences of managing perceived or actual stigma regarding others’ perceptions of the condition and themselves. The third incorporated perceived barriers to disclosure relating to power, safety, and beliefs about the role of medical professionals.

Conclusions

Findings highlight the importance of clinicians continually providing developmentally appropriate information to young people and actively breaking down barriers to disclosure through body language and the use of clear questions regarding emotional experiences.
Optimized detection of germ cell neoplasia in situ in contralateral biopsy reduces the risk of second testis cancer
Authors: Rajpert‐De Meyts Ewa , Jørgensen Niels , Petersen Jørgen Holm , Almstrup Kristian , Aksglaede Lise , Lauritsen Jakob , Rørth Mikael , Daugaard Gedske , Skakkebæk Niels E.
Published: May 2022

Objective

To evaluate whether optimized and standardized diagnostic procedures would improve detection of germ cell neoplasia in situ (GCNIS) in the contralateral testis of patients with testicular germ cell tumour (TGCT) and decrease the rate of metachronous tumours, which in a nationwide Danish study was estimated to be 1.9%.

Patients and Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of outcomes in 655 patients with TGCT who underwent contralateral biopsies (1996–2007) compared with those in 459 non‐biopsied TGCT controls (1984–1988). The biopsies were performed using a standardized procedure with immunohistochemical GCNIS markers and assessed by experienced evaluators. Initial histopathology reports were reviewed, and pathology and survival data were retrieved from national Danish registers. In 604/608 patients diagnosed as GCNIS‐negative (four were lost to follow‐up), the cumulative incidence of metachronous TGCT was estimated in a competing risk setting using the Grey method. All cases of metachronous TGCT were re‐examined using immunohistochemistry.

Results

Germ cell neoplasia in situ was found in 47/655 biopsied patients (7.2%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 5.4–9.5%). During the follow‐up period (median 17.3 years) five of the 604 GCNIS‐negative patients developed a TGCT. In 1/5 false‐negative biopsies, GCNIS was found on histological revision using immunohistochemistry and 2/5 biopsies were inadequate because of too small size. The estimated cumulative incidence rate of second tumour after 20 years of follow‐up was 0.95% (95% CI 0.10%–1.8%) compared with 2.9% (95% CI 1.3%–4.4%) among the non‐biopsied TGCT patients (P = 0.012). The estimates should be viewed with caution due to the small number of patients with metachronous TGCT.

Conclusions

Optimized diagnostic procedures improved the detection rate of GCNIS in patients with TGCT and minimized their risk of developing metachronous bilateral cancer. Urologists should be aware of the importance of careful tissue excision (to avoid mechanical compression) and the need of adequate biopsy size. Performing contralateral biopsies is beneficial for patients' care and should be offered as a part of their management.
HDAC5, negatively regulated by miR‐148a‐3p, promotes colon cancer cell migration
Authors: OuYang Chunli , Shu Guang , Liu Jiaxin , Deng Shumin , Lu Pengyan , Li Yimin , Gan Yaqi , Xie Bintao , Liu Junwen , Yin Gang
Published: May 2022

Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are involved in many processes including tumor cell growth and proliferation and regulation of gene expression. To clarify the role of class IIa HDACs in the metastasis of colon adenocarcinoma, we used the class IIa HDAC inhibitor TMP269 and found that it effectively inhibited the migration ability of colon adenocarcinoma cells. Next, we silenced the member of class IIa HDACs and confirmed that the migratory ability of colon adenocarcinoma cells was significantly inhibited by silencing HDAC5 or HDAC7. HDAC5 plays a variety of roles in human cancers. Here, we examined the role of HDAC5 in colon adenocarcinoma. The results indicated that HDAC5 was highly expressed in tumor tissues and negatively correlated with the expression of miR‐148a‐3p. Moreover, the expression of HDAC5 was correlated with tumor progression. HDAC5 markedly increased the invasion and migration of cancer cells in vitro, an effect that could be inhibited by overexpression of miR‐148a‐3p. Following an intraperitoneal injection of colon adenocarcinoma cells in athymic nude mice, HDAC5 promoted tumor implant. Together, these findings showed that HDAC5 overexpression in colon adenocarcinoma is consistent with tumor progression and tumor cell migration and the impact of HDAC5 overexpression is reduced by miR‐148a‐3p.
Restorative angle of zirconia restorations cemented on non‐original titanium bases influences the initial marginal bone loss: 5‐year results of a prospective cohort study
Authors: Strauss Franz J. , Siegenthaler Marina , Hämmerle Christoph H. F. , Sailer Irena , Jung Ronald E. , Thoma Daniel S.
Published: May 2022

Aim

To assess radiographic, restorative, clinical and technical outcomes as well as patient satisfaction of directly veneered zirconia restorations cemented on non‐original titanium bases over 5 years.

Material and Methods

Twenty‐four patients with a single missing tooth in the aesthetic zone were recruited. All patients received a two‐piece implant with a screw‐retained veneered zirconia restoration cemented extraorally on a titanium base abutment. Marginal bone levels (MBL), marginal bone changes, technical complications, patient satisfaction and clinical parameters including probing depth, bleeding on probing and plaque index were assessed at crown delivery (baseline), at 1 year (FU‐1) and 5 years (FU‐5) of follow‐up. To investigate the relationship between restorative angle and MBL as well as marginal bone changes (bone loss/bone gain), correlation tests and linear regression models were carried out.

Results

Twenty‐two patients were available for re‐examination at 5 years. The mean MBL amounted to 0.54 ± 0.39 mm at baseline, and to 0.24 ± 0.35 at FU‐5 (=bone gain) (p < .001). At FU‐1, a positive correlation (r = .5) between the mesial restorative angle and mesial MBL was found (p = .012). Marginal bone changes between baseline and FU‐1 at mesial sites were also positively correlated with the mesial restorative angle (r = .5; p = .037). Linear and logistic regression models confirmed that mesial marginal bone loss was significantly associated with the mesial restorative angle at FU‐1 (p < .05). At 5 years, these significant associations at mesial sites disappeared (p > .05). At distal sites, no correlations or associations between the restorative angle and MBL or marginal bone changes were found regardless of the time point. During the 5‐year follow‐up, 5 technical complications occurred, mainly within the first year and mostly chippings. All patients were entirely satisfied with their implant‐supported restoration at 5 years.

Conclusion

Within the limitations of the present study, the restorative angle of implant‐supported crowns on non‐original titanium bases might influence the initial marginal bone loss but without affecting their favourable long‐term clinical performance. A restorative angle of <40° may limit the initial marginal bone loss at implant‐supported crowns with titanium bases.
Building a pervasive social gaming experience using SocialPG
Authors: Valera‐Aranguren Ramón , Rodriguez Patricia Paderewski , Vela Francisco Luis Gutierrez , Arango‐López Jeferson , Moreira Fernando
Published: May 2022

Pervasive computing has become a key element to build applications that use fun as a motivating component because it allows exploring new interaction schemes by making the concept of space and time ambiguous and confusing. The present research describes a pervasive social gaming experience, using as a reference SocialPG, which is a model that describes social expansion as a strategy to improve gaming experiences supported by pervasive computing. In this article a description of the model is offered, software architecture is proposed to support it and a case study related to the process of error resolution and detection of improvement opportunities in software products is developed, finally, a general idea about the final software product that will support the game experience is offered together with an evaluation performed by a set of users, where some important findings are highlighted, such as the importance of the missions as a unit of cooperative work and the spectator's participation.
The genomic and proteomic landscape in oral lichen planus versus oral squamous cell carcinoma: a scoping review
Authors: Xie Fangyi , Meves Alexander , Lehman Julia S.
Published: May 2022

Background

Oral lichen planus (OLP), a World Health Organization (WHO)‐classified oral potentially malignant condition, confers a 1% risk of transformation to oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). There does not appear to be a consensus understanding of the underlying molecular events. This scoping review aimed to identify critical molecular pathways and highlight gaps in existing knowledge on malignant transformation in OLP.

Methods

Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis Protocols (PRISMA‐P) guidelines, a comprehensive literature search and methodical screening identified 61 relevant studies detailing molecular differences between OLP and OSCC.

Results

Molecular changes shared between OLP and OSCC included those affecting cellular proliferation (altered p53 expression, hypermethylation of p16/CDKN2A, MYC gains, increased ki‐67), apoptosis (increased bcl‐2 and survivin expression), extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling (increased matrix metalloproteinase [MMP] expression), and transcriptional control (altered bmi1 and microRNA [miRNA] expression). In addition, some molecular alterations accumulated incrementally from control to OLP to OSCC or were present in higher‐risk erosive variants of OLP or transformed OLP. Few studies included rigorous diagnostic inclusion criteria or unbiased discovery methods.

Conclusions

Results of this review support the potentially malignant nature of OLP and imply that molecular events associated with malignant transformation may be heterogeneous. In addition, findings in this review highlight the need for additional studies using rigorous diagnostic inclusion criteria and unbiased discovery methods to further understand this process.
Improvement of the solubility and emulsification of rice protein isolate by the pH shift treatment
Authors: Dai Hongmin , Zhan Fuchao , Chen Yijie , Shen Qian , Geng Fang , Zhang Ziyang , Li Bin
Published: May 2022

In the current research, we have adopted a pH shift treatment method that can significantly improve the solubility and emulsification of rice protein isolate (RPI) under neutral conditions. Our results showed that the RPI reached a quasi‐equilibrium state at 1 h after alkali shift treatment, and the solubility and emulsifying properties of RPI were significantly improved compared with the control. In addition, the particle size of RPI decreased considerably under the alkali shift treatment. The results of electron microscopy showed that the RPI aggregates were depolymerised and the particle size distribution was more uniform. The pH shift treatment induced the rearrangement of protein secondary structure, and the exposure of hydrophobic groups increase the surface hydrophobicity of RPI. The change in endogenous fluorescence spectrum, UV and the disulfide bond content all showed that the conformation of RPI changed significantly through pH shift treatment. In addition, it was found that the RPI treated under pH 10–11 shift possessed the best property to stabilise the emulsion. This study showed that under the condition of pH10 and pH11 shift treatment, the structural and functional properties of RPI were vastly improved, and the application of RPI in food was greatly ameliorated.
Mitonuclear discordance and patterns of reproductive isolation in a complex of simultaneously hermaphroditic species, the Allolobophora chlorotica case study
Authors: Dupont Lise , Audusseau Hélène , Porco David , Butt Kevin R.
Published: May 2022

Historical events of population fragmentation, expansion and admixture over geological time may result in complex patterns of reproductive isolation and may explain why, for some taxa, the study of mitochondrial (mt) and nuclear (nu) genetic data results in discordant evolutionary patterns. Complex patterns of taxonomic diversity were recently revealed in earthworms for which distribution is largely the result of paleogeographical events. Here, we investigated reproductive isolation patterns in a complex of cryptic species of earthworms in which discordant patterns between mt and nu genetic lineages were previously revealed, the Allolobophora chlorotica aggregate. Using four nu microsatellite markers and a fragment of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I mt gene, we carried out a parentage analysis to investigate the mating patterns (i) between individuals belonging to two divergent mt lineages that cannot be distinguished with nu markers and (ii) between individuals belonging to lineages that are differentiated both at the mt and nu levels. Amongst the 157 field‐collected individuals, 66 adults were used in cross‐breeding experiments to form 22 trios based on their assignment to a mt lineage, and 453 obtained juveniles were genotyped. We showed that adults that mated with both their potential mates in the trio produced significantly more juveniles. In crosses between lineages that diverged exclusively at the mt level, a sex‐specific pattern of reproduction characteristic to each lineage was observed, suggesting a possible conflict of interest concerning the use of male/female function between mating partners. In crosses between lineages that diverged both at the mt and nu levels, a high production of cocoons was counterbalanced by a low hatching rate, suggesting a post‐zygotic reproductive isolation. Different degrees of reproductive isolation, from differential sex allocation to post‐zygotic isolation, were thus revealed. Lineages appear to be at different stages in the speciation process, which likely explain the observed opposite patterns of mitonuclear congruence.