bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of food values on post–purchase variables at food establishments
Authors: Izquierdo-Yusta Alicia , Gómez-Cantó Carmen María , Martínez-Ruiz María Pilar , Pérez-Villarreal Héctor Hugo
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The importance of food values for the post–purchase process has not been widely studied. Most previous research in this line has focused on examining either the attributes of specific food categories, without taking the corresponding values into account, or food-purchasing attitudes and behaviour. To address this gap in the research, this paper delves deeper into the influence of food values on post–purchase variables.

Design/methodology/approach

Specifically, it analyses the influence of food values on satisfaction (both with the purchase and with the establishment), switching costs and loyalty. To this end, a sample of 708 consumers, collected through online questionnaires in Spain, is analysed using various descriptive statistics and causal models.

Findings

The findings confirm the influence of food values on satisfaction and that satisfaction positively influences loyalty. Switching costs were not found to moderate the relationship between satisfaction and loyalty.

Research limitations/implications

The survey had to be completed online, and, thus, respondents needed to have an e-mail address. This influenced the respondents' profile, since many consumers over the age of 54 do not have e-mail, do not use it, or are more reluctant to complete online surveys.

Practical implications

Purchase satisfaction was not found to affect switching costs, which reinforces the idea that loyalty can sometimes be spurious. It would thus be an indicator that, as long as consumers have no other option, they will continue to shop at the establishment. In contrast, establishment satisfaction did generate switching costs. This finding could be due to aspects such as convenience, the development and maintenance of relationships with the employees, knowledge of where products are located in the store, etc. Customers may be dissatisfied with their purchase, yet still satisfied with an establishment, which could entail very high switching costs for them and, therefore, cause them to remain loyal (albeit spuriously) to the establishment.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the literature in this field by examining the influence of food values on key post-purchase variables.
Stable relationality and dynamic innovation: two models of collaboration in SME-driven offsite manufacturing supply chains in housing construction
Authors: Pablo Zelinna , London Kerry Anne
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The study analyses collaborative practice in offsite manufacturing (OSM) housing supply chains, focusing specifically on supply chains driven by small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The study’s analysis builds on previous work where we argued that collaboration in OSM housing construction comprises nine elements. In this study, the authors demonstrate empirically that SMEs enact these collaborative practice elements in distinct ways, foregrounding key elements over others. One core model and two sub-models of collaboration emerge from our two case studies.

Design/methodology/approach

The study analyses two SME-driven supply chains using qualitative case study techniques. Data were gathered through 12 semi-structured interviews conducted in two housing construction supply chains: one in South Australia, Australia, and another in Tasmania, Australia.

Findings

A comparative case study of SMEs shows that collaboration in OSM supply chains has a number of common elements, including a champion for innovation, investment in long-term relationships, resourceful use of limited assets and physical co-location. However, SMEs can also enact these elements through a range of diverging collaborative strategies that can be distilled into different models: stable relationality and dynamic innovation.

Originality/value

Findings provide a compelling empirical basis for arguing that SMEs can successfully lead OSM supply chains if key collaborative practice elements are strategically mobilised in ways that are suited to their strengths and limitations. The study therefore interrogates the widely held and often limiting assumption that OSM can only be driven by large organisations with access to capital assets, capacity to invest and undisputed bargaining power.
A field survey of hand–arm vibration exposure in the UK utilities sector
Authors: Edwards David John , Rillie Iain , Chileshe Nicholas , Lai Joesph , Hosseini M. Reza , Thwala Wellington Didibhuku
Published: April 2020

Purpose

Excessive exposure to HAV can lead to hand–arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) which is a major health and well-being issue that can irreparably damage the neurological, vascular and muscular skeletal system. This paper reports upon field research analysis of the hand–arm vibration (HAV) exposure levels of utility workers in the UK construction sector when operating hand-held vibrating power tools.

Design/methodology/approach

An empirical epistemological lens was adopted to analyse primary quantitative data on the management of hand-held tool trigger times (seconds) collected from field studies. To augment the analysis further, an interpretivist perspective was undertaken to qualitatively analyse interviews held with the participating company's senior management team after field study results. This approach sought to provide further depth and perspective on the emergent numerical findings.

Findings

The findings reveal that none of the operatives were exposed above the exposure limit value (ELV) and that 91.07% resided under the exposure action value (EAV). However, the Burr four parameter probability model (which satisfied the Anderson–Darling, Kolmogorov–Smirnov and chi-squared goodness of fit tests at α 0.01, 0.02, 0.05, 0.1 and 0.2 levels of significance) illustrated that given the current data distribution pattern, there was a 3% likelihood that the ELV will be exceeded. Model parameters could be used to: forecast the future probability of HAV exposure levels on other utility contracts and provide benchmark indicators to alert senior management to pending breaches of the ELV.

Originality/value

HAV field trials are rarely conducted within the UK utilities sector, and the research presented is the first to develop probability models to predict the likelihood of operatives exceeding the ELV based upon field data. Findings presented could go some way to preserving the health and well-being of workers by ensuing that adequate control measures implemented (e.g. procuring low vibrating tools) mitigate the risk posed.
Reliability measures for a new general system using fuzzy non-homogenous Markov reward model under d-degradation levels
Authors: Temraz Neama
Published: April 2020

Purpose

In this paper, new procedures for a fuzzy Markov reward model are introduced to find the reliability measures.

Design/methodology/approach

It is supposed that the introduced system consisted of n identical units connected in parallel and each unit has m different types of failures. Also, each unit of the system is allowed to have d levels of degradation from a working state to complete failure. Non-homogeneous Markov reward model is used to construct the system of differential equations of the model. Procedures are proposed to obtain reliability measures of the model under considering that the failure and repair rates of the systems unit are fuzzy. An application is constructed to analyze a system of 2-unit, and results are shown graphically.

Findings

Non-homogeneous Markov reward model is used to construct the system of differential equations of the model.

Originality/value

All papers in literature assumed Markov reward model with deterministic parameters. In this paper, a generalization of classical Markov reward model is introduced.
Let's get everyone involved! The effects of transformational leadership and organizational culture on organizational excellence
Authors: Lasrado Flevy , Kassem Rassel
Published: April 2020

Purpose

This paper posited a dynamic relationship between transformational leadership, organizational culture, and organizational excellence in order to develop a better understanding of the casual linkages between these three areas.

Design/methodology/approach

The research methodology includes a multi-item scale questionnaire survey which included 448 samples from United Arab Emirates (UAE) with an average response rate of 61.1%. The hypotheses were tested by applying structural equation modeling (SEM) and path analyses. Analyses used the Mplus software package.

Findings

The key finding in this study suggests that creating the involvement culture provides the all-inclusive participation and holistic engagement from employees, which consequently leads to organizational excellence.

Research limitations/implications

The study is more focused on particular type of leadership and can extend to other types of leadership as well the other regions. The study extends the findings of previous studies that suggested authoritative was essential initially but that this would change with the emerging culture.

Practical implications

Managers should foster an involvement culture and adopt transformational leadership style in order to reap the benefits of the quality management approaches.

Originality/value

From existing research on leadership in QM context, we adopt transformational leadership in connection with organizational culture and organizational excellence. The originality of the study lies in its quantitative approach to test an already demonstrated phenomenon about the relationship between transformational leadership, organizational culture and business excellence. This study significantly contributes to the literature on QM by discovering that organizations with transformational leadership styles and involvement or adaptability cultures can perform well and achieve organizational excellence.
Students’ perceptions of HEI regarding environmental sustainability – a comparative analysis
Authors: Correia Elisabete , Conde Fátima , Nunes Rosa , Viseu Clara
Published: April 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to compare the environmental sustainability practices at the campus operations between two Portuguese higher education institutions (HEIs) at different stages of the implementation of an Eco-School Programme. It also seeks to analyse the involvement of the students in the process of implementing these practices in their institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire survey was carried out in two HEIs (a green and a non-green institution). Data were collected from a total of 832 students. Techniques of descriptive statistics and inferential statistical techniques such as the Mann-Whitney test, χ2 and Spearman correlation test, were applied.

Findings

The results obtained show that, from the students’ perspective, and in both institutions, there is still much to be done on the path towards sustainability, particularly in transport and landscaping. Significant differences were found only between some environmental sustainability practices at the campus level. However, students from the green institution are more participative in sustainability activities.

Practical implications

This study provides a picture of two HEIs’ sustainability behaviour from the students’ standpoint, which can be important for decision-makers in HEIs, in as much that students are one of the HEIs’ major stakeholder groups; furthermore, it enables them to better guide their efforts towards sustainability.

Originality/value

This paper focusses on the students’ perspective and their role in the sustainability initiatives undertaken by HEIs. It can be useful for future research that attempts to analyse the importance of HEIs’ stakeholder participation in sustainability.
Managing stressors in a detention facility: the need for supporting and safeguarding staff
Authors: Eades David N.
Published: April 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the impact of stressors and the strategies staff use to cope with these at a detention facility. It documents through case studies some of the triggers of trauma, possible coping mechanisms that might assist in navigating the associated stressors in a workplace and recommendations as to what might assist staff.

Design/methodology/approach

A naturalist approach was used in this research, using an ethnographic qualitative methodology. Grounded theory assisted in the analysis of the data to capture naturalistically the subjective experience of the participants of the study. Conversations occurred with staff who had worked in a detention facility using face to face semi-structured interviews. The structure was open-ended to allow the staff to discuss and share their experiences freely.

Findings

Stressors that impacted staff working in a detention facility resulted from areas such as heightened reactions from detainees because of the length of their detainment, detainee self-harm, dealing with the effects of an increase of substance abuse through detainees obtaining contraband and the associated violent reactions that can occur as a result. Adverse symptoms noted within the lives of staff included acute anxiety, sleeplessness, depression and tension within impersonal relationships, including family. What compounded the issue was staffs’ reluctance to talk about work stressors.

Research limitations/implications

The research used nine participants for case studies of staff who had formerly experienced various adverse impacts of stressors. This is not a comprehensive study, however, of the broader experiences of staff at an Australian detention facility. It does provide, however, a snapshot of the experiences of a small group who had significantly been impacted by the stressors of the workplace.

Practical implications

This paper provides fresh perspectives or initiatives that are needed to assist staff to navigate the changing environment of working in a detention facility. In particular, some support mechanisms and protective factors that could be put in place to curb the negative impact of stressors in the workplace and to mitigate against long term stress disorders developing in the personal lives of staff.

Social implications

Many staff are not getting the help they need to cope with the emotional distress they experience in their workplace. However, there are practical interventions to support staff in managing the stressors they face. These will be outlined in this article.

Originality/value

This study was carried out with the goal of giving staff a voice and to capture their former experiences in their vocational responsibilities in a venue that has had very limited research attention. This study has presented the challenges staff faced in a unique venue of working in a detention facility. It has documented some of the common stressors staff faced, the impact of such and some coping mechanisms used to handle them.
Institutional change and routine dynamics in service ecosystems
Authors: Tuominen Tiina , Edvardsson Bo , Reynoso Javier
Published: April 2020

Purpose

This study aims to understand and explain how institutional change occurs at the level of value co-creation practices in service ecosystems. Despite the centrality of collective practices to the service ecosystems perspective, theoretically grounded explanations of how practices change and become institutionalized remain underdeveloped. Applying the theory of routine dynamics, this paper addresses two questions as follows: what does the institutional change mean at the level of value co-creation practices and what processes underlie these changes?

Design/methodology/approach

The study develops a conceptual framework that characterizes value co-creation practices as routines involving three aspects, namely, ostensive, performative and artifactual. As a key element in institutional change, the interplay between these informs an account of institutional change processes in service ecosystems.

Findings

The proposed conceptual framework specifies the conditions for institutional change in terms of value co-creation routines. First, any such change is seen to be grounded in alignment between changing institutional rules and the ostensive, performative and artifactual aspects of routines. Second, this alignment is seen to emerge through a dialectics of planned and practice-based activities during institutional change. An empirical research agenda is proposed for the analysis of institutional change processes in different service ecosystems.

Originality/value

This conceptual framework extends existing accounts of how service ecosystems change through the contributions of multiple actors at the level of value co-creation practices.
Leadership and performance of Millennial generation in Brazilian companies
Authors: Silva Rodrigo , Dutra Joel , Veloso Elza Fátima Rosa , Trevisan Leonardo
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyze the effect of the relationship between leadership and engagement on the individual performance of Millennial generation professionals.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was carried out with higher education business school students in Brazil. The sampling procedure involved a convenience selection of Millennial generation professionals who are employed and have recently undergone a performance evaluation process. The professionals answered a questionnaire about their perception of an empowering and directive leader, engagement, human resource practices and performance.

Findings

The authors demonstrated the potential of leaders to generate engagement and influence performance, showing the need for companies to become involved in the leadership process by defining appropriate leader profiles and establishing clear practices and criteria for their actions with regard to Millennial generation.

Practical implications

The potential of empowering leadership to generate engagement, and that of directive leadership to influence performance, show the need for companies to become involved in the leadership process by defining appropriate leader profiles and establishing clear criteria for their actions toward Millennial generation.

Originality/value

In Brazil, empowering leaders do not directly influence their subordinates’ performance, unlike what was found in previous studies. Thus, it may be that they also do not perceive, or are not working in, more flexible or participative workplaces, which interferes with the perception of the direct relationship between the leadership’s actions and their personal performance.
Interplay between two quorum sensing‐regulated pathways, violacein biosynthesis and VacJ/Yrb, dictates outer membrane vesicle biogenesis in Chromobacterium violaceum
Authors: Batista Juliana H. , Leal Fernanda C. , Fukuda Taise T. H. , Alcoforado Diniz Juliana , Almeida Fausto , Pupo Mônica T. , da Silva Neto José F.
Published: April 2020

Outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) are lipid nanoparticles released by Gram‐negative bacteria, which play multiple roles in bacterial physiology and adaptation to diverse environments. In this work, we demonstrate that OMVs released by the environmental pathogen Chromobacterium violaceum deliver the antimicrobial compound violacein to competitor bacteria, mediating its toxicity in vivo at a long distance. OMVs purified by ultracentrifugation from the wild‐type strain, but not from a violacein‐abrogated mutant ΔvioABCDE, contained violacein and inhibited several Gram‐positive bacteria. Competition tests using co‐culture and transwell assays indicated that the C. violaceum wild‐type strain killed Staphylococcus aureus better than the ΔvioABCDE mutant strain. We found that C. violaceum achieves growth phase‐dependent OMV release by the concerted expression of two quorum sensing (QS)‐regulated pathways, namely violacein biosynthesis and VacJ/Yrb system. Although both pathways were activated at high cell density in a QS‐dependent manner, the effect on vesiculation was the opposite. While the ΔvioABCDE mutant produced twofold fewer vesicles than the wild‐type strain, indicating that violacein induces OMV biogenesis for its own delivery, the ΔvacJ and ΔyrbE mutants were hypervesiculating strains. Our findings uncovered QS‐regulated pathways involved in OMV biogenesis used by C. violaceum to package violacein into OMVs for interbacterial competition.
Effects of masting on seedling establishment of a rodent‐dispersed tree species in a warm‐temperate region, northern China
Authors: ZHANG Hongmao , YAN Chuan , WU Shiqi , SI Junjie , YI Xianfeng , LI Hongjun , ZHANG Zhibin
Published: April 2020

Masting is an evolutionary strategy used by plants to promote seed survival and/or seed dispersal under animal predation, but its effects on seedling establishment in field condition are rarely tested by long‐term experiments incorporating combined effects of seed and animal abundance. Here, we tracked seed production, rodent‐mediated seed dispersal, and seedling establishment in Armeniaca sibirica from 2005 to 2014 in a warm‐temperate forest in northern China, and examined the effects of seed abundance and per capita seed availability on seed fate and seedling recruitment rate. Our results showed that seed abundance or per capita seed availability generally benefited the seedling recruitment of A. sibirica through increasing dispersal intensity, supporting predator dispersal hypothesis. However, seedling recruitment showed satiated or even dome‐shaped association with per capita seed availability, suggesting the benefit to trees would be decreased when seed abundance were too high as compared to rodent abundance (a satiated effect). Our results suggest that the predator dispersal and satiation effects of masting on seedling recruitment can operate together in one system and conditionally change with seed and animal abundance.
Rainfall Interception Based on Indirect Methods: A Case Study in Temperate Forests in Oaxaca, Mexico
Authors: Fernández Tania , Trejo Irma
Published: April 2020

Rainfall interception represents the amount of water trapped in natural cover that is not drained directly to the ground. Intercepted rainfall may evaporate after a rain event, making it one of the main drivers of water balance and hydrologic regionalization. This process can be affected by factors such as climate, altitude, vegetation type, and topography. Here is a simple method of calculating rainfall interception in temperate forests using in Santa Maria Yavesia, Oaxaca, and Mexico as an illustrative study area. We used two rain gauges to measure net precipitation (Np) under the canopy at each study site and one gauge outside the canopy to obtain gross precipitation (Gp). Throughfall (Th) was indirectly measured using hemispherical photographs. Rainfall interception was obtained through a combination Th and Gp and Np. The mean rainfall interception was 50.6% in the Abies forests, 23%–40% in the coniferous‐mixed forests, and 27.4% in the broad‐leaved forests. We classified rainfall events by intensity to determine the effect of canopy structure and precipitation and found that 75% of the events were weak events, 24% were moderate events, and 1% were strong events. In addition, we found that rainfall interception was lower when the intensity of precipitation was higher. Our method can be replicated in different ecosystems worldwide as a tool for assessing the influence of rainfall interception in terms of ecological services.
Who is where in the Plastisphere, and why does it matter?
Authors: Arias‐Andres Maria
Published: April 2020

To fully understand how plastic is affecting the ocean, we need to understand how marine life interacts directly with it. Besides their ecological relevance, microbes can affect the distribution, degradation and transfer of plastics to the rest of the marine food web. From amplicon sequencing and scanning electron microscopy, we know that a diverse array of microorganisms rapidly associate with plastic marine debris in the form of biofouling and biofilms, also known as the “Plastisphere.” However, observation of multiple microbial interactions in situ, at small spatial scales in the Plastisphere, has been a challenge. In this issue of Molecular Ecology Resources, Schlundt et al. apply the combination labelling and spectral imaging – fluorescence in situ hybridization to study microbial communities on plastic marine debris. The images demonstrate the colocalization of abundant bacterial groups on plastic marine debris at a relatively high taxonomic and spatial resolution while also visualizing biofouling of eukaryotes, such as diatoms and bryozoans. This modern imaging technology provides new possibilities to address questions regarding the ecology of marine microbes on plastic marine debris and describe more specific impacts of plastic pollution in the marine food webs.
Chromosome‐level hybrid de novo genome assemblies as an attainable option for nonmodel insects
Authors: Jaworski Coline C. , Allan Carson W. , Matzkin Luciano M.
Published: April 2020

The emergence of third‐generation sequencing (3GS; long‐reads) is bringing closer the goal of chromosome‐size fragments in de novo genome assemblies. This allows the exploration of new and broader questions on genome evolution for a number of nonmodel organisms. However, long‐read technologies result in higher sequencing error rates and therefore impose an elevated cost of sufficient coverage to achieve high enough quality. In this context, hybrid assemblies, combining short‐reads and long‐reads, provide an alternative efficient and cost‐effective approach to generate de novo, chromosome‐level genome assemblies. The array of available software programs for hybrid genome assembly, sequence correction and manipulation are constantly being expanded and improved. This makes it difficult for nonexperts to find efficient, fast and tractable computational solutions for genome assembly, especially in the case of nonmodel organisms lacking a reference genome or one from a closely related species. In this study, we review and test the most recent pipelines for hybrid assemblies, comparing the model organism Drosophila melanogaster to a nonmodel cactophilic Drosophila, D. mojavensis. We show that it is possible to achieve excellent contiguity on this nonmodel organism using the dbg2olc pipeline.
“It’s Not in the Course Guide!” Reflections from a Dutch Field School on How Students Learn to Do Fieldwork
Authors: Rasch Elisabet Dueholm , Simon Thomas Marc , Cremers Gijs , Verschuuren Bas
Published: April 2020

In this reflection we unpack students’ first fieldwork experiences and how this parallels a rite de passage. We do so in two domains: (1) students' first fieldwork with a focus on entering the field, staying in the field, and researcher identity; and (2) the impact of fieldwork experiences on students’ professional skills. Two struggles are prominent: letting go of the idea of “objectivity” and learning to deal with the whimsicalities of doing fieldwork.
Risk indicators for depression in aged care: The contribution of a meaningful life, mastery and environmental fit
Authors: Chau Rebecca , Kissane David W. , Davison Tanya E.
Published: April 2020

Objectives

Depression is a pernicious, growing problem in the aged care population. Knowledge about the risk factors for depression focuses on unchangeable, medical factors; therefore, a deeper, systematic understanding of modifiable psychological risk indicators is needed.

Methods

This secondary analysis used data from an observational cohort study (T1, n = 147; T2, n = 81) of adults aged ≥65 years recruited from 15 aged care facilities in Melbourne, Australia. Meaningful existence, mastery, social support and person‐environment fit were investigated as risk indicators.

Results

Generalised estimating equation analysis identified that changes in meaningful existence (b = –0.06, P < .05), mastery (b = –0.05, P < .05) and person‐environment fit (b = –0.02, P < .05) were significantly associated with change in depression score. These remained significant controlling for socio‐demographic variables, cognitive impairment and functional impairment.

Conclusion

Because these psychological risk factors—meaningful existence, mastery and person‐environment fit—are suitable therapeutic targets, they are well positioned to inform prevention and intervention programs.
Implementing a ‘Safe Recovery’ fall prevention program: Refining intervention theory using realist methods
Authors: Martin Rachelle A. , Dickie Benn , Skinner Helen , Hurring Sarah , Marshall Rachel , Hanger Hugh Carl
Published: April 2020

Objectives

This research aimed to explain how the Safe Recovery Programme (SRP) may best work to reduce falls in older adults undergoing rehabilitation in four wards in an older person's health and rehabilitation service.

Methods

Qualitative realist methods were used, including surveys completed by patients and staff, and qualitative interviews or focus groups exploring views of patients, ward staff and SRP educators.

Results

Emphasising different types of information for patients with different pre‐existing understandings may facilitate their responses to SRP messaging. Consistency and coherence of SRP messaging within ward routines varied in response to staff SRP training and ongoing feedback mechanisms from SRP educators.

Conclusions

Tailored individualised approaches for patients with specific characteristics may lead to patients being less likely to engage in risky behaviours. Staff training and processes for facilitating ongoing feedback between patients, SRP and ward staff are required to ensure consistency and coherence of SRP messaging.
Tnfaip3 expression in pulmonary conventional type 1 Langerin‐expressing dendritic cells regulates T helper 2‐mediated airway inflammation in mice
Authors: Vroman Heleen , van Uden Denise , Bergen Ingrid M. , van Hulst Jennifer A. C. , Lukkes Melanie , van Loo Geert , Clausen Björn E. , Boon Louis , Lambrecht Bart N. , Hammad Hamida , Hendriks Rudi W. , Kool Mirjam
Published: April 2020

Background

Conventional type 1 dendritic cells (cDC1s) control anti‐viral and anti‐tumor immunity by inducing antigen‐specific cytotoxic CD8+ T‐cell responses. Controversy exists whether cDC1s also control CD4+ T helper 2 (Th2) cell responses, since suppressive and activating roles have been reported. DC activation status, controlled by the transcription factor NF‐κB, might determine the precise outcome of Th‐cell differentiation upon encounter with cDC1s. To investigate the role of activated cDC1s in Th2‐driven immune responses, pulmonary cDC1s were activated by targeted deletion of A20/Tnfaip3, a negative regulator of NF‐κB signaling.

Methods

To target pulmonary cDC1s, Cd207 (Langerin)‐mediated excision of A20/Tnfaip3 was used, generating Tnfaip3fl/flxCd207+/cre (Tnfaip3Lg‐KO) mice. Mice were exposed to house dust mite (HDM) to provoke Th2‐mediated immune responses.

Results

Mice harboring Tnfaip3‐deficient cDC1s did not develop Th2‐driven eosinophilic airway inflammation upon HDM exposure, but rather showed elevated numbers of IFNγ‐expressing CD8+ T cells. In addition, Tnfaip3Lg‐KO mice harbored increased numbers of IL‐12–expressing cDC1s and elevated PD‐L1 expression in all pulmonary DC subsets. Blocking either IL‐12 or IFNγ in Tnfaip3Lg‐KO mice restored Th2 responses, whereas administration of recombinant IFNγ during HDM sensitization in C57Bl/6 mice blocked Th2 development.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that the activation status of cDC1s, shown by their specific expression of co‐inhibitory molecules and cytokines, critically contributes to the development of Th2 cell–mediated disorders, most likely by influencing IFNγ production in CD8+ T cells.
Association between prostate‐specific antigen and serum testosterone: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kim Do Kyung , Noh Jin‐Won , Chang Yoosoo , Lee Hyun Young , Park Jae Joon , Ryu Seungho , Kim Jae Heon
Published: April 2020

Background

Serum testosterone assays are an important tool in the clinical evaluation of a number of endocrine disorders including male hypogonadism. However, serum testosterone has a limited role in real clinical use due to its inaccuracy. We aimed to assess the association between prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) and testosterone as well as the effects of various types of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) for PSA level.

Methods

Two electronic databases were screened: PubMed (1966 through December 2018) and Cochrane Library (1993 through December 2018). The first strategy compared the overall increase in PSA following testosterone treatment compared with placebo. The second strategy analyzed the overall association between PSA and testosterone among the observational studies.

Results

In the first strategy, 22 articles were included in the final analysis. In the second strategy, 18 studies were included. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) showed a significant change in PSA level compared to that in the placebo group (mean difference [MD]: 0.13, 95% CI: 0.01‐0.25, P = .04). Compared to placebo, only intramuscular (IM) TRT shows a significant change in PSA level group (MD: 0.16, 95% CI: 0.01‐0.30, P = .04), as neither the oral nor topical type showed a significant change in PSA. In the second strategy analysis, there was no overall correlation found between PSA and testosterone (z = 0.04, 95% CI: −0.04 to 0.12, P = .04; r = 0.039). However, in the subgroup of non‐BPH (benign prostate hyperplasia), a significant correlation between PSA and testosterone (z = 0.07, 95% CI: 0.01‐0.13, P = .009; r = 0.089) was found.

Conclusions

We found that TRT, particularly IM TRT, significantly changed the PSA level compared with the placebo group. Furthermore, there was a significant correlation between PSA and testosterone in patients with non‐BPH. According to these findings, we suggest the possibility of PSA as a surrogate marker of testosterone.
How are ECG parameters related to cardiac magnetic resonance images? Electrocardiographic predictors of left ventricular hypertrophy and myocardial fibrosis in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Dohy Zsofia , Vereckei Andras , Horvath Viktor , Czimbalmos Csilla , Szabo Liliana , Toth Attila , Suhai Ferenc I. , Csecs Ibolya , Becker David , Merkely Bela , Vago Hajnalka
Published: April 2020

Background

Structural myocardial changes in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) are associated with different abnormalities on electrocardiographs (ECGs). The diagnostic value of the ECG voltage criteria used to screen for left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) may depend on the presence and degree of myocardial fibrosis. Fibrosis can cause other changes in ECG parameters, such as pathological Q waves, fragmented QRS (fQRS), or repolarization abnormalities.

Methods

We investigated 146 patients with HCM and 35 healthy individuals who underwent cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR; with late gadolinium enhancement [LGE] in HCM patients) and standard 12‐lead ECGs. On the ECG, depolarization and repolarization abnormalities, the Sokolow–Lyon index, the Cornell index, and the Romhilt–Estes score were evaluated. The left ventricular ejection fraction, volumes, and myocardial mass (LVM) were quantified. Myocardial fibrosis was quantified on LGE images.

Results

The sensitivity of the Romhilt–Estes score was the highest (75%), and this hypertrophy criterion had the strongest correlation with the LVM index (p < .0001; r = .41). The amount of fibrosis was negatively correlated with the Cornell index (p = .015; r = −.201) and the Sokolow–Lyon index (p = .005; r = −.23), and the Romhilt–Estes score was independent of fibrosis (p = .757; r = 0.026). fQRS and strain pattern predicted more fibrosis, while the Cornell index was a negative predictor of myocardial fibrosis (p < .0001). Among others, the strain pattern was an independent predictor of the LVM (p < .0001).

Conclusion

The Romhilt–Estes score is the most sensitive ECG criterion for detecting LVH in HCM patients, as myocardial fibrosis does not affect this criterion. The presence of fQRS and strain pattern predicts myocardial fibrosis.
Efficacy and safety of simultaneous treatment with two biologic medications in refractory Crohn’s disease
Authors: Yang Edward , Panaccione Nicola , Whitmire Natalie , Dulai Parambir S. , Vande Casteele Niels , Singh Siddharth , Boland Brigid S. , Collins Angelina , Sandborn William J. , Panaccione Remo , Battat Robert
Published: April 2020

Background

Biologic therapies in patients with Crohn's disease often yield low clinical and endoscopic remission rates. After multiple failed therapies, combining two biologic therapies is possibly the sole medical alternative to recurrent surgery. However, data on this approach are limited.

Aims

To assess the efficacy and safety of concomitant use of two biologic therapies in the largest cohort to date of refractory Crohn's disease patients.

Methods

Data were extracted from Crohn's disease patients started on dual biologic therapy at two referral centres. Biologics utilised include infliximab, adalimumab, vedolizumab, ustekinumab, certolizumab and golimumab. The primary outcome was endoscopic improvement (>50% reduction in Simplified Endoscopic Score‐Crohn's disease [SES‐CD] or explicitly stated). Endoscopic remission (SES‐CD < 3 or stated), clinical response (Crohn's disease–patient‐reported outcome‐2 score [PRO2] reduced by 8), clinical remission (PRO2 < 8), and C‐reactive protein (CRP) were also assessed.

Results

A total of 22 patients with 24 therapeutic trials of dual biologic therapy were identified. The majority of patients had prior surgical resections (91%), stricturing (59%) or penetrating (36%) phenotype, and perianal fistulas (50%). Median number of prior failed biologics was 4. Endoscopic improvement occurred in 43% of trials and 26% achieved endoscopic remission. Fifty per cent had clinical response and 41% achieved clinical remission. There were significant post‐treatment reductions in median SES‐CD (14.0 [12.0‐17.5] to 6.0 [2.5‐8.0], P = 0.0005], PRO‐2 (24.1 [20.3‐27.0] to 13.4 [4.6‐21.8], P = 0.002] and CRP (17.0 [11.0‐24.0] to 9.0 [4.0‐14.0], P = 0.02). Presence of perianal fistulas decreased from 50% to 33%. Adverse events occurred in 13% of trials.

Conclusion

Dual biologic therapy was associated with clinical, biomarker and endoscopic improvements in selected patients with refractory Crohn's disease who failed multiple biologics. Further studies are needed to validate this approach.
Race, rage and emotional suspects: Ideologies of social mobility confront the racial contours of mass incarceration
Authors: Tilton Jennifer
Published: April 2020

Guilt, shame, pride and rage ripple through conversations about racism within the juvenile justice system where the racial contours of mass incarceration challenge the legitimacy of the American ideology of being a colourblind meritocracy. This paper argues that projects of emotional regulation, especially the regulation of young people's emotional response to the hypervisibility of race, are central to the governance of youth in carceral spaces. Drawing on ethnographic research in a southern California juvenile hall, I explore how young people engage with an evolving biopolitics of emotion and the ways carceral spaces shape young people's constructions of racial boundaries and solidarities.
Mechanosensing by Gli1+ cells contributes to the orthodontic force‐induced bone remodelling
Authors: Liu An‐Qi , Zhang Li‐Shu , Chen Ji , Sui Bing‐Dong , Liu Jin , Zhai Qi‐Ming , Li Yan‐Jiao , Bai Meng , Chen Kai , Jin Yan , Hu Cheng‐Hu , Jin Fang
Published: April 2020

Objectives

Gli1+ cells have received extensive attention in tissue homeostasis and injury mobilization. The aim of this study was to investigate whether Gli1+ cells respond to force and contribute to bone remodelling.

Materials and methods

We established orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) model to assess the bone response for mechanical force. The transgenic mice were utilized to label and inhibit Gli1+ cells, respectively. Additionally, mice that conditional ablate Yes‐associated protein (Yap) in Gli1+ cells were applied in the present study. The tooth movement and bone remodelling were analysed.

Results

We first found Gli1+ cells expressed in periodontal ligament (PDL). They were proliferated and differentiated into osteoblastic cells under tensile force. Next, both pharmacological and genetic Gli1 inhibition models were utilized to confirm that inhibition of Gli1+ cells led to arrest of bone remodelling. Furthermore, immunofluorescence staining identified classical mechanotransduction factor Yap expressed in Gli1+ cells and decreased after suppression of Gli1+ cells. Additionally, conditional ablation of Yap gene in Gli1+ cells inhibited the bone remodelling as well, suggesting Gli1+ cells are force‐responsive cells.

Conclusions

Our findings highlighted that Gli1+ cells in PDL directly respond to orthodontic force and further mediate bone remodelling, thus providing novel functional evidence in the mechanism of bone remodelling and first uncovering the mechanical responsive property of Gli1+ cells.
p16 Range of expression in dermal predominant benign epithelioid and spindled nevi and melanoma
Authors: Oaxaca Gabriel , Billings Steven D. , Ko Jennifer S.
Published: April 2020

Background

Screening borderline Spitz tumors with p16 immunohistochemistry (IHC) has known utility. The applicability to other melanocytic neoplasms is not well defined.

Methods

Cases (N = 104) of blue, cellular blue, epithelioid blue, congenital pattern, deep penetrating, desmoplastic, desmoplastic Spitz, acral, “epithelioid” nevi, nevoid melanoma, melanoma with a precursor nevus, and non‐nevoid melanoma with Breslow thickness > 0.5 mm were stained for p16.

Results

Lesions showed either a single uniform pattern of expression (single/homogeneous pattern: positive, checkerboard, rare, or lost) or multiple regionally distributed patterns (multiple/heterogeneous pattern). Most cases (78%, n = 81) showed single pattern expression. Within single pattern cases, total loss was restricted to melanoma (7/81/9%). Multiple patterns were more common in melanoma (12/23, 52%). Within multiple pattern (22%, n = 23) lesions, those with a total loss component (7/23; 30%) were malignant. Total p16 loss (diffuse or regional) was not seen in a subset of nevoid melanomas (1/8; 12.5%), melanomas arising in nevi (2/6; 33%), and non‐nevoid melanomas (6/9; 66%). Total p16 loss (single pattern or part of multiple patterns) captured 61% (14/23) of melanomas and no nevi.

Conclusion

p16 IHC may be useful in dermal‐based melanocytic lesions. Total p16 loss is seen only in melanoma. Multiple pattern expression should prompt careful evaluation.
Appendiceal adenocarcinoma diagnosed by fine needle aspiration cytology
Authors: Nishikawa Akiyoshi , Suemori Tomohiro , Aoki Rituko , Suzuki Shinobu , Uebayashi Kumiko , Miura Eisuke , Shimoda Masayuki , Yamada Taketo
Published: April 2020

This report describes a case of appendiceal adenocarcinoma presenting as an appendiceal mucocele which was diagnosed on fine needle aspiration cytology despite biopsies being non‐diagnostic.
Microbial utilization of rice root residue‐derived carbon explored by DNA stable‐isotope probing
Authors: Guo Tengfei , Zhang Qian , Ai Chao , He Ping , Zhou Wei
Published: April 2020

Despite the vast carbon (C) stock of crop root residues in arable ecosystems, the microbial assimilation mechanism of crop root derived‐C is poorly understood. In this study, a DNA‐based stable isotope probing (DNA‐SIP) approach was used to explore and characterize the diversity of the soil bacterial community assimilating C derived from 13C‐labelled rice root residues during a 90‐day incubation. Overall, 13C‐assimilating bacterial groups with various characteristics were identified with the occurrence of strong priming effects on soil native C. Significant increases of Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes abundances within the 13C‐assimilating bacterial community were observed. Generally, Streptomyces were the predominant utilizers of 13C derived from rice root residues within a 28‐day incubation. The 13C‐labelling of Pseudomonas, which was continuously detected during incubation, indicated stronger effects at the later decomposition stage. The role of genera Kitasatospora, Catenulispora, Nocardioides, Flavisolibacter and Niastella in 13C‐labelled rice root residues assimilation was also observed. Meanwhile, incorporation of rice root residues stimulated the growth of certain bacterial groups that incorporated unlabelled native soil C, including Chloroflexi, Acidobacteria, Planctomycetes, Verrumicrobia and Nitrospirae.

Highlights

The microbial mechanism of the utilization of crop root residues is largely neglected.

We explored the diversity of bacterial communities assimilating rice root residues with DNA‐SIP

Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes were dominant decomposers of root residues

Streptomyces and Pseudomonas were consistently detected as key assimilators during decomposition
The Ethical Challenges of the Digital Age
Authors: Bedford‐Strohm Heinrich
Published: April 2020

This article examines the ethical challenges of digital transformation in three steps. First, it offers a survey of the various dimensions of digital transformation and the ethical challenges that are associated with them: the exposure of private life through access to data; the change of communication culture through algorithms; the concentration of corporate power; changes in the world of work; the military use of digital technology; and the fusion of the human being and the machine. Second, it reflects upon various fundamental anthropological dimensions of the biblical tradition, which does not define humankind through itself but first and foremost in relation to, and being different from, God. Third, it draws conclusions about how to deal with digital transformation: through rescuing public discourse, making digital transformation socially accountable, and offering a perspective of theological anthropology that takes account of both the vulnerability and the deep freedom of our humanity.
Truthfulness, Beneficence, and Vulnerability as Key Concepts in Communication Ethics
Authors: Aznar Hugo
Published: April 2020

This article presents the major stages of the approaches to the ethics of communication and the respective ethical principle of each one. The first stage, centred on the principle of truthfulness, was born at the beginning of the 20th century, at the same time as the first great development of the press and journalism. The second stage, which began at the end of the 20th century, centred on the principle of beneficence and developed from the growing influence of the mass media on all fields and aspects of social life. There is also the need for a further principle for communication ethics: the principle of vulnerability: to give voice to those affected by a situation, especially to those in a situation of vulnerability. The article then considers whether the huge impact of the Internet and social media at the beginning of the 21st century implies a new stage in the ethics of communication or rather the need to extend the scope and effectiveness of existing ethical principles and norms. The article tends toward the second option, insisting on the role of self‐regulation and media literacy in tackling the current challenges in media and social media communications.