bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Future developments in kidney transplantation
Authors: Viklicky Ondrej , Novotny Marek , Hruba Petra
Published: December 2019

Purpose of review

This review summarises recent developments in monitoring and immunosuppressive management in kidney transplantation.

Recent findings

Long-term kidney allograft outcomes have not changed substantially mainly as a result of acute and chronic antibody-mediated rejection. Several groups have recently attempted to determine peripheral molecular fingerprints of ongoing rejection. But while this research is promising, it is not generalised for further spreading among different cohorts. Measurements of donor-derived cell-free DNA levels in recent studies have revealed better predictive values for antibody-mediated rejection. The Molecular Microscope Diagnostic System for assessing kidney graft biopsies has been gradually introduced within clinical practice, especially in complicated cases aimed at improving histological diagnostics. Molecular studies on accommodation in ABO-incompatible transplantation have shown increased complement regulation and lower expression of epithelial transporters and class 1 metallothioneins. Additionally, in clinical studies of sensitised patients, imlifidase has been shown to enable transplantation across significant immunological barriers, while the co-stimulation blockade has been tested to prevent donor specific antibodies development. In low-risk patients, everolimus/tacrolimus-based regimens have also proven their antiviral effects in large clinical trials.

Recent developments in non-invasive monitoring have paved the way for the introduction of future larger clinical trials with multiple patient cohorts.
Ocular Surface Disease in a PICU: Incidence and Outcomes With a Dynamic Eye Care Protocol
Authors: Niemi Angela , Geddie Brooke E. , Rajasekaran Surender , Davis Alan T. , VanDenBosch Nikita , Steenland Caryn , Winters John W.
Published: December 2019

Objectives:

Sedated intensive care patients have impaired ocular protective mechanisms putting them at risk for ocular surface disease with potential vision loss. Historically, routine eye care has been limited to critically ill patients receiving neuromuscular blockade. The aim of this project was to determine the occurrence rate of ocular surface disease in sedated and ventilated children, identify risk factors, and determine the progression of injury with routine eye care.

Design:

Prospective cohort study.

Setting:

A tertiary care medical-surgical PICU.

Patients:

All intubated patients admitted from May 2015 to December 2016.

Interventions:

Staff education regarding corneal examination with fluorescein, and routine eye care as per a PICU eye care protocol.

Measurements and Main Results:

We evaluated 479 patients (1,242 corneal exams) and found that 15% had ocular surface disease at admission to the PICU: keratopathy 62, abrasion 16. The highest incidence was in trauma patients (39.0%) and those intubated in the emergency department (22.2%) or prehospital setting (42.9%). Of the 245 patients with multiple ocular assessments, 32.2% displayed ocular surface disease at some point during their hospitalization: keratopathy 73, abrasion 24. Ourprotocol dictated increased frequency of eye care if ocular surface disease worsened. As a result, the overall incidence of ocular surface disease decreased to 8.6% by the last examination (keratopathy 19, mild abrasion 2), but more severe ocular abnormalities such as corneal infiltrates, ulcers, or scarring were not observed. Based on multivariate analysis, clinical factors associated with increased risk of ocular surface disease included primary diagnosis, and lagophthalmos (incomplete eyelid closure).

Conclusions:

Ocular surface disease is an under-recognized process in critically ill pediatric patients. A standardized and dynamic protocol may improve corneal health, which in turn may reduce injury, pain, infection, and long-term vision loss.
Time to Modernize: Local Public Health Transitions to Population-Level Interventions
Authors: Ryan-Ibarra Suzanne , Nishimura Holly , Gallington Kyli , Grinnell Sue , Bekemeier Betty
Published: December 2019

Objectives:

To identify facilitating factors that guide local health departments (LHDs) in their transition from direct clinical service provision to population-level interventions addressing the social determinants of health.

Design:

Key informant interviews with LHD leaders and their staff were conducted using a semistructured interview guide. Thematic qualitative analysis was used to identify common characteristics and strategies among the LHD leaders and staff.

Participants:

LHDs represented both rural and urban communities with population sizes from 9746 to 919 628 and agencies in Illinois, Montana, North Carolina, Oregon, Tennessee, Washington, and West Virginia.

Outcome Measure:

The impetus and facilitators for transitioning health department services from clinical to population health.

Results:

Leaders from 7 LHDs emphasized that an impetus for their transition from direct clinical services to population-level interventions was that it was “time to modernize.” Among LHDs interviewed, most included the 10 Essential Public Health Services or Public Health 3.0 in their strategic plan. Adding this focus to their strategic plan facilitated buy-in from local government and the ability to maintain the LHDs' focus on population-level interventions. We found that strong relationships and open communication with community members and partner organizations (eg, federally qualified health centers) were critical facilitators of transition. Themes from interviews were used to identify an initial set of 8 key elements of an effective transition: partnership/leadership, vision/goals, communication, community engagement, interventions, data/evaluation, workforce issues, and sustainability.

Conclusions:

Prevention systems suffer from a lack of adequate health promotion and access to quality care for their community's residents. There is a need for LHDs to access technical support to strategically address complexity and ensure core population-focused prevention. The results shared provide replicable solutions, practices, and methods that enable successful transitions of LHDs toward maximizing their role in population health.
Healthy Eating Policy Strategies in Community Health Improvement Plans: A Cross-Sectional Survey of US Local Health Departments
Authors: Sreedhara Meera , Goins Karin Valentine , Frisard Christine , Rosal Milagros C. , Lemon Stephenie C.
Published: December 2019

Context:

Policies (eg, regulations, taxes, and zoning ordinances) can increase opportunities for healthy eating. Community Health Improvement Plans (CHIP) may foster collaboration and local health department (LHD) engagement in policy decision making to improve local food environments. Limited research describes what policies supportive of healthy food environments are included in CHIPs nationally and relationships between LHD characteristics and participation in plans including such policies.

Objectives:

To determine the proportion of US LHDs who participated in development of a CHIP containing healthy eating policy strategies and assess the association between LHD characteristics and inclusion of any healthy eating policy strategy in a CHIP.

Design:

A cross-sectional national probability survey.

Participants:

Of the 209 US LHDs (serving populations <500 000) (response rate: 30.2%), 176 LHDs with complete data on CHIP status, outcomes, and covariates were eligible for analysis.

Main Outcome Measures:

Thirteen healthy eating policy strategies were organized into 3 categories: increasing availability/identification of healthy foods, reducing access to unhealthy foods, and improving school food environments. Strategies and categories were identified from literature and public health recommendations.

Results:

In total, 32.2% of LHDs reported inclusion of 1 or more healthy eating policy strategies in a CHIP. The proportion of departments reporting specific strategies ranged from 20.8% for school district policies to 1.1% for sugar-sweetened beverage taxes. Local health departments serving 25 000 to 49 999 residents (odds ratio [OR]: 5.00; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.71-14.63), 100 000 to 499 999 residents (OR: 3.66; 95% CI: 1.12-11.95), pursuing national accreditation (OR: 4.46; 95% CI: 1.83-10.83), or accredited (OR: 3.22; 95% CI: 1.08-9.63) were more likely to include 1 or more healthy eating policy strategies in a CHIP than smaller LHDs (<25 000) and LHDs not seeking accreditation, respectively, after adjusting for covariates.

Conclusions:

Few LHDs serving less than 500 000 residents reported CHIPs that included a policy-based approach to improve food environments, indicating room for improvement. Population size served and accreditation may affect LHD policy engagement to enhance local food environments.
Septal Integration Graft, a Modified Direct Type of Septal Extension Graft for the Treatment of Unilateral Cleft Lip Nose Deformity
Authors: Han Kihwan , Park Minwoo , Choi Taehyun , Choi Jaehoon , Kim Junhyung , Son Daegu , Jeong Woonhyeok
Published: December 2019

Background

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the cosmetic outcomes and stability of septal integration grafts (SIGs), a modified direct type of septal extension graft, in patients with cleft lip nose deformity.

Methods

Seventy-three patients underwent SIGs between January 2002 and July 2017. The exclusion criteria were patients who lacked clinical photographs preoperatively or postoperatively. We reviewed data regarding the patient demographics, combined procedures, and complications as well as preoperative and postoperative clinical photography. Eleven measurement items were evaluated from basal and right lateral views with photogrammetry and 3-dimensional anthropometry using standardized clinical photographic techniques.

Results

Sixty-one patients were analyzed in this study. Twelve patients were excluded owing to a lack of postoperative photographs. The mean ± SD follow-up period was 26.70 ± 29.43 months (range, 6–134 months). Compared with the preoperative value, the nasal tip projection index, height of nose index, and nostril axis inclination significantly improved. The columellar length (Rt-Lt) index significantly decreased, which implied improved columellar deviation. Complications included hematoma (n = 1), wound dehiscence (n = 1), tearing of septal mucosa (n = 3), and silicone implant deviation (n = 2).

Conclusions

We used SIGs to correct nasal deformity in patients with cleft lip nose deformity. The SIG can minimize the amount of the graft used for septal extension and can effectively correct nasal tip and columella deformities.
The proline synthesis enzyme P5CS forms cytoophidia inDrosophila
Authors: Zhang Bo , Tastan Ömür Y. , Zhou Xian , Guo Chen-Jun , Liu Xuyang , Thind Aaron , Hu Huan-Huan , Zhao Suwen , Liu Ji-Long
Published: December 2019

Compartmentation of enzymes via filamentation has arisen as a mechanism for the regulation of metabolism. In 2010, three groups independently reported that CTP synthase (CTPS) can assemble into a filamentous structure termed the cytoophidium. In searching for CTPS-interacting proteins, here we perform a yeast two-hybrid screening ofDrosophilaproteins and identify a putative CTPS-interacting protein, Δ1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate synthase (P5CS). UsingDrosophilafollicle cell as thein vivomodel, we confirm that P5CS forms cytoophidia, which are associated with CTPS cytoophidia. Overexpression of P5CS increases the length of CTPS cytoophidia. Conversely, filamentation of CTPS affects the morphology of P5CS cytoophidia. Finally,in vitroanalyses confirm the filament-forming property of P5CS. Our work links CTPS with P5CS, two enzymes involved in the rate-limiting steps in pyrimidine and proline biosynthesis, respectively.
Single cell atlas of domestic pig brain illuminates the conservation and divergence of cell types at spatial and species levels
Authors: Chen Dongsheng , Zhu Jiacheng , Zhong Jixing , Chen Fang , Lin Xiumei , Dai Jinxia , Chen Yin , Wang Shiyou , Ding Xiangning , Wang Haoyu , Qiu Jiaying , Wang Feiyue , Wu Weiying , Liu Ping , Tang Gen , Qiu Xin , Ruan Yetian , Li Jiankang , Zhu Shida , Xu Xun , Li Fang , Liu Zhongmin , Cao Gang
Published: December 2019

Domestic pig (Sus scrofa domesticus) has drawn much attention from researchers worldwide due to its implications in evolutionary biology, regenerative medicine and agriculture. The brain atlas ofHomo sapiens(primate),Mus musculus(rodent),Danio rerio(fish) andDrosophila melanogaster(insect) have been constructed at single cell resolution, however, the cellular compositions of pig brain remain largely unexplored. In this study, we investigated the single-cell transcriptomic profiles of five distinct regions of domestic pig brain, from which we identified 21 clusters corresponding to six major cell types, characterized by unique spectrum of gene expression. By spatial comparison, we identified cell types enriched or depleted in certain brain regions. Inter-species comparison revealed cell-type similarities and divergences in hypothalamus between mouse and pig, providing invaluable resources for the evolutionary exploration of brain functions at single cell level. Besides, our study revealed cell types and molecular pathways closely associated with several diseases (obesity, anorexia, bulimia, epilepsy, intellectual disability, and autism spectrum disorder), bridging the gap between gene mutations and pathological phenotypes, which might be of great use to the development precise therapies against neural system disorders. Taken together, we reported, so far as we know, the first single cell brain atlas ofSus scrofa domesticus, followed by comprehensive comparisons across brain region and species, which could throw light upon future evo-devo, regenerative medicine, and agricultural studies.
Synchronized β cell response to glucose is lost concomitant with loss of islet architecture in Robo deficient islets of Langerhansin vivo
Authors: Adams Melissa T. , Reissaus Christopher A. , Dwulet JaeAnn M. , Jin Erli , Szulczewski Joseph M. , Lyman Melissa R. , Sdao Sophia M. , Nimkulrat Sutichot D. , Ponik Suzanne M. , Merrins Matthew J. , Benninger Richard K.P. , Mirmira Raghavendra G. , Linnemann Amelia K. , Blum Barak
Published: December 2019

The spatial architecture of the islets of Langerhans is hypothesized to facilitate synchronized insulin secretion between β cells, yet testing thisin vivoin the intact pancreas is challenging.Robo βKOmice, in which the genesRobo1andRobo2are deleted selectively in β cells, provide a unique model of altered islet spatial architecture without loss of β cell differentiation or islet damage from diabetes. CombiningRobo βKOmice with intravital microscopy, we show here thatRobo βKOislets lose synchronized intra-islet Ca2+oscillations between β cellsin vivo. We provide evidence that this loss is not due to a β cell-intrinsic function of Robo, loss of Connexin36 gap junctions, or changes in islet vascularization, suggesting that the islet architecture itself is required for synchronized Ca2+oscillations. These results have implications for understanding structure-function relationships in the islets during progression to diabetes as well as engineering islets from stem cells.
Multi-photon attenuation-compensated light-sheet fluorescence microscopy
Authors: Veettikazhy Madhu , Nylk Jonathan , Gasparoli Federico , Escobet-Montalbán Adrià , Hansen Anders Kragh , Marti Dominik , Andersen Peter Eskil , Dholakia Kishan
Published: December 2019

Attenuation of optical fields owing to scattering and absorption limits the penetration depth for imaging. Whilst aberration correction may be used, this is difficult to implement over a large field-of-view in heterogeneous tissue. Attenuation-compensation allows tailoring of the maximum lobe of a propagation-invariant light field and promises an increase in depth penetration for imaging. Here we show this promising approach may be implemented in multi-photon (two-photon) light-sheet fluorescence microscopy and, furthermore, be achieved in a facile manner utilizing a graded neutral density filter, circumventing the need for complex beam shaping apparatus. A “gold standard” system utilizing a spatial light modulator for beam shaping is used to benchmark our implementation. The approach will open up enhanced depth penetration in light-sheet imaging to a wide range of end users.
The “adductome”: a limited repertoire of adducted proteins in human cells
Authors: Kiianitsa Kostantin , Maizels Nancy
Published: December 2019

Proteins form adducts with nucleic acids in a variety of contexts, and these adducts may be cytotoxic if not repaired. Here we apply a proteomic approach to identification of proteins adducted to DNA or RNA in normally proliferating cells. This approach combines RADAR fractionation of proteins covalently bound to nucleic acids with quantitative mass spectrometry (MS). We demonstrate that “RADAR-MS” can quantify induction of TOP1- or TOP2-DNA adducts in cells treated with topotecan or etoposide, respectively, and also identify intermediates in physiological adduct repair. We validate RADAR-MS for discovery of previously unknown adducts by determining the repertoires of adducted proteins in two different normally proliferating human cell lines, CCRF-CEM T cells and GM639 fibroblasts. These repertoires are significantly similar with one another and exhibit robust correlations in their quantitative profiles (Spearman r=0.52). A very similar repertoire is identified by the classical approach of CsCl buoyant density gradient centrifugation. We find that in normally proliferating human cells, the repertoire of adducted proteins — the “adductome” — is comprised of a limited number of proteins belonging to specific functional groups, and that it is greatly enriched for histones, HMG proteins and proteins involved in RNA splicing. Treatment with low concentrations of formaldehyde caused little change in the composition of the repertoire of adducted proteins, suggesting that reactive aldehydes generated by ongoing metabolic processes may contribute to protein adduction in normally proliferating cells. The identification of an endogenous adductome highlights the importance of adduct repair in maintaining genomic structure and the potential for deficiencies in adduct repair to contribute to cancer.
T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin (TIM) contributes to Hantaan virus entry into human airway epithelial cells
Authors: Mayor Jennifer , Torriani Giulia , Zimmer Gert , Rothenberger Sylvia , Engler Olivier
Published: December 2019

Hantaviruses are rodent-borne haemorrhagic fever viruses leading to serious diseases. Viral attachment and entry represent the first steps in virus transmission and are promising targets for antiviral therapeutic intervention. Here we investigated receptor use in human airway epithelium of the Old and New World hantaviruses Hantaan virus (HTNV) and Andes virus (ANDV). Using a biocontained recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus pseudotype platform, we provide first evidence for a role of the cellular phosphatidylserine (PS) receptors of the T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin (TIM) in HTNV and ANDV entry. In line with previous studies, HTNV, but not ANDV, was able to use the glycosaminoglycan heparan sulfate and αvβ3 integrin as co-receptors. In sum, our studies demonstrate for the first time that hantaviruses use PS receptors and hence apoptotic mimicry to invade human airway epithelium, which may explain why these viruses can easily break the species barrier.
The microfluidic laboratory at Synchrotron SOLEIL
Authors: Chaussavoine Igor , Beauvois Anthony , Mateo Tiphaine , Vasireddi Ramakrishna , Douri Nadine , Priam Jordan , Liatimi Youssef , Lefrançois Stéphane , Tabuteau Hervé , Davranche Mélanie , Vantelon Delphine , Bizien Thomas , Chavas Leonard, M. G. , Lassalle-Kaiser Benedikt
Published: December 2019

A microfluidic laboratory recently opened at Synchrotron SOLEIL, dedicated to in-house research and external users. Its purpose is to provide the equipment and expertise that allow the development of microfluidic systems adapted to the beamlines of SOLEIL as well as other light sources. Such systems can be used to continuously deliver a liquid sample under a photon beam, keep a solid sample in a liquid environment or provide a means to track a chemical reaction in a time-resolved manner. The laboratory provides all the amenities required for the design and preparation of soft-lithography microfluidic chips compatible with synchrotron-based experiments. Three examples of microfluidic systems that were used on SOLEIL beamlines are presented, which allow the use of X-ray techniques to study physical, chemical or biological phenomena.
Picosecond pump–probe X-ray scattering at the Elettra SAXS beamline
Authors: Burian Max , Marmiroli Benedetta , Radeticchio Andrea , Morello Christian , Naumenko Denys , Biasiol Giorgio , Amenitsch Heinz
Published: December 2019

A new setup for picosecond pump–probe X-ray scattering at the Austrian SAXS beamline at Elettra-Sincrotrone Trieste is presented. A high-power/high-repetion-rate laser has been installed on-site, delivering UV/VIS/IR femtosecond-pulses in-sync with the storage ring. Data acquisition is achieved by gating a multi-panel detector, capable of discriminating the single X-ray pulse in the dark-gap of the Elettra hybrid filling mode. Specific aspects of laser- and detection-synchronization, on-line beam steering as well protocols for spatial and temporal overlap of laser and X-ray beam are also described. The capabilities of the setup are demonstrated by studying transient heat-transfer in an In/Al/GaAs superlattice structure and results are confirmed by theoretical calculations.
Crystal structure of propionitrile (CH3CH2CN) determined using synchrotron powder X-ray diffraction
Authors: Brand Helen E. A. , Gu Qinfen , Kimpton Justin A. , Auchettl Rebecca , Ennis Courtney
Published: December 2019

The structure and thermal expansion of the astronomical molecule propionitrile have been determined from 100 to 150 K using synchrotron powder X-ray diffraction. This temperature range correlates with the conditions of Titan's lower stratosphere, and near surface, where propionitrile is thought to accumulate and condense into pure and mixed-nitrile phases. Propionitrile was determined to crystallize in space group, Pnma (No. 62), with unit cell a = 7.56183 (16) Å, b = 6.59134 (14) Å, c = 7.23629 (14), volume = 360.675 (13) Å3 at 100 K. The thermal expansion was found to be highly anisotropic with an eightfold increase in expansion between the c and b axes. These data will prove crucial in the computational modelling of propionitrile–ice systems in outer Solar System environments, allowing us to simulate and assign vibrational peaks in the infrared spectra for future use in planetary astronomy.
Comparison of spindle and stomacher efficacy for detaching biofilms from stainless steel, PVC, and green leafy vegetable surfaces
Authors: Kim Wooju , Jeong Ki-Ok , Cheon Ho-Lyeong , Kang Dong-Hyun
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Biofilms are bacterial communities embedded in exopolysaccharide, enhancing the difficulty of detaching bacterial cells from surfaces. Due to structural properties, it is difficult to detach biofilms. Many removal methods have been developed, but there are still some limitations such as sample size and reproducibility. “Spindle” was developed, producing a higher quality suspension which can be used for further study. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors compared the enumeration of biofilm-forming cells detached from the spindle and stomacher in various surfaces. First, the authors chose stainless steel and polyvinyl chloride to attach biofilms and to be subjected to stomacher and spindle for up to 2 min. Also, the authors evaluated the efficiency of detachment from vegetable surfaces.

Findings

In a comparative experiment of abiotic surfaces, the spindle showed identical effectiveness for detaching biofilm-forming cells compared to the stomacher, recovering the population by 8-log forEscherichia coliO157:H7,SalmonellaTyphimurium andListeria monocytogenes. The spindle also showed no significant difference from the stomacher in the number of recovered cells which is 4-log from vegetable surfaces. However, turbidity after spinach was subjected to spindle was 4.37 NTU, while it was 99 NTU for stomacher, which was in accord with visual result about clearance.

Originality/value

This study demonstrated that the spindle is a useful to separate biofilms from surfaces without destructing structure, and thus it can be used for analysis in food laboratories as well as utilized for vegetable washing step in the food industry.
Cheese consumption culture in Central Spain (Madrid Region): drivers and consumer profile
Authors: Cruz Maceín José Luis , Iriondo DeHond Maite , Miguel Eugenio
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The artisanal cheese industry in the Community of Madrid (CM) in Spain has recently experienced an increased development despite its traditionally limited cheese and milk production. The purpose of this paper is to explain this phenomenon by identifying the determinants of consumer attitudes towards cheese consumption in relation to the offer provided by recent artisan cheese producers.

Design/methodology/approach

A phone survey (n = 1,111 consumers) consisting of 17 questions was carried out to analyse cheese consumption culture in the CM. Principal component analysis was used to identify the factors that determine cheese-purchasing variance.

Findings

The first component was explained by hedonic (38 per cent of variance), followed by health aspects (24 per cent of variance) and price (15 per cent of variance). Price was identified as the most important criterion when purchasing cheese (67 per cent of consumers), followed by fat (57 per cent) and salt content (56 per cent). Results indicate a low cheese consumption culture in Madrid, as 48 per cent of consumers did not know exactly what kind of cheese they normally consumed. The type of milk used in cheese production was used to identify consumer profiles for market segmentation. Sheep and goat cheese consumers valued local production food quality and may be the driving force behind the expansion of artisanal cheese industry in Madrid.

Research limitations/implications

Madrid Region is one of the most important markets in Spain and Europe; however, local cheeses are not a traditional product in the market.

Practical implications

This paper offers a very interesting approach about how consumers’ culture can support a new local agricultural industry.

Social implications

Rural entrepreneurs can innovate focussing on new consumers demands. Local and handcrafted products are an opportunity in rural and periurban areas.

Originality/value

This paper shows consumer preferences and attitudes towards the novel artisan cheese sector that has expanded in the CM.
On consumers’ use, brand preference and equity of sports nutrition products
Authors: Wesana Joshua , Schouteten Joachim J. , Van Acker Evi , Gellynck Xavier , De Steur Hans
Published: December 2019

Purpose

While trends of health and well-being have boosted the development of sports nutrition products, consumer research is limited. The purpose of this paper is to profile sports nutrition users and non-users, and to explain users’ preference and equity of sports nutrition brands.

Design/methodology/approach

A large online survey (n=3,165) was conducted with users and non-users of sports nutrition drinks in Belgium. Profiling was based on socio-demographic and sport related variables. For users, brand preference and equity of three key sports nutrition brands (n=1,075) were measured. Thereby, a three-dimensional consumer-based brand equity (CBBE) model was applied.

Findings

Both the socio-demographic (gender, age, education and employment status) and sport profile (frequency, context, reasons and sports nutrition advice) had a significant influence on respondents’ likelihood to use sports nutrition products. For brand preference, the effect of sport and socio-demographic profile was only partially confirmed, with advice and frequency of sport participation being most influential. Furthermore, users’ brand equity was shown to be positively affected by brand quality and brand loyalty, while the impact of brand awareness/associations was not significant for all brands.

Research limitations/implications

Insights in the role of the sport and socio-demographic profiles contribute to the understanding of general and brand-specific sports nutrition use. The insignificance of brand awareness/associations for Brand A points to the notion of other implicit factors that possibly mask or transform the effect of brand awareness, yet do not influence brand quality and loyalty. Future theory development could integrate the CBBE model with other explanatory determinants related to consumer (health) behavior theories, or consumer perceptions on marketing efforts, while brand equity measurement could be extended with financial measures.

Practical implications

Variations in the impact of brand equity dimensions further lend support for the diversification of marketing strategies in the sports nutrition sector.

Originality/value

This study is one of the first to examine the customer market of sports nutrition products and brands.
Assessing the effects of exogenous factors for benchmarking hospitals with double bootstrapping
Authors: Lee Yong Joo , Joo Seong-Jong
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Data envelopment analysis (DEA) is based on the production possibility set that involves the process of converting resources or inputs to outputs. Accordingly, most DEA models include endogenous variables and need an additional step to find the influence of exogenous variables on the process. The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between the efficiency scores of DEA and the exogenous variables using truncated regression analysis with double bootstrapping along with two additional methods.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the authors employ DEA for benchmarking the comparative efficiency of the health care institutes. Next, the authors run and compare truncated, ordinary least square (OLS) and Tobit regression analysis using the double bootstrapping algorithm for finding the influence of exogenous variables on the efficiency of the health care institutes.

Findings

The authors confirmed the amount of bias for the Tobit and OLS regression models, which was caused by serially correlated errors. Accordingly, the authors chose results from the truncated regression model with double bootstrapping for examining the influence of exogenous or environment variables on the efficiency scores.

Research limitations/implications

The study includes cross-sectional data on health care institutes in the state of Washington, USA. Collecting data in various states or regions over time is left for future studies.

Practical implications

In this study, three exogenous variables such as Medicaid revenues, locations of health care institutes and ownership types are significant for explaining the relationship between the efficiency scores and a group of the exogenous variables. Managers and policy makers need to pay attention to these variables along with endogenous variables for promoting the sustainability of the health care institutes.

Originality/value

The study demonstrates the usefulness of the truncated regression analysis with double bootstrapping for confirming the relationship between the efficiency scores of DEA and a group of exogenous variables, which is rare in the DEA literature.
Recruiting and retaining of Indigenous Probations Officers
Authors: Morven Frank , Cunningham J. Barton
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to define different types of culturally commensurate experiences, events, activities and interventions which Indigenous people find relevant for improving cultural diversity.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on interviews and surveys with Indigenous Probations Officers, the authors define a framework of nine experiences and events relevant to the organization, team and cultural development.

Findings

The key finding lies in proposing a framework of what Indigenous Probation Officers finding lies view as commensurate experiences, activities or interventions which recognize their cultural context (American Psychological Association, 2003).

Research limitations/implications

The key limitations to this study are the size of the sample and the inability to conclusively argue that the framework of experiences developed can claim to represent those important for improving recruitment and retentions of all Indigenous Probation Officers. Further exploratory research of this type is necessary to add to this research in guiding future research and practice.

Practical implications

The definition of a multicultural experiences offered here might be useful in encouraging Probation Officers and others in developing a deeper appreciation of cultures of Indigenous peoples and other groups.

Social implications

The purpose is to better understand an Indigenous perspective on enhancing a connection to culture within the Corrections system.

Originality/value

Rather than using a list of competencies to shape behaviors and experiences that people practice, the underlying assumption is to encourage cultural multiculturalism framework competency development by focusing on experiences and events important to objectives related to improving diversity.
Corporate social responsibility (CSR) in Asian firms: a strategic choice perspective of ethics and compliance management
Authors: Gaur Ajai , Ghosh Koustab , Zheng Qinqin
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The decision regarding ethics and compliance management (ECM) adoption and its actual implementation is usually deliberated as an important corporate social responsibility (CSR) matter. Building on the strategic choice perspective, this study aims to investigate the forces and mechanisms underlying the link between ECM adoption and its substantial implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on survey data of multi-national companies (MNCs) in Asia.

Findings

The authors find that firms adopt ECM initiatives due to the impact of critical field events coupled with institutional mimesis and the salience of risk reduction. Moreover, reinforced by top management support and ethics transgressions, firms are inclined to engage in sincere ECM implementation.

Originality/value

The study examines important antecedents of ECM adoption and implementation in market MNCs. In doing so, it contributes to the broader CSR literature.
Paradoxes in supplier’s uptake of GSCM practices: institutional drivers and buyer dependency
Authors: Fayezi Sajad , Stekelorum Rebecca , El Baz Jamal , Laguir Issam
Published: December 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of institutional drivers and buyer dependency on green supply chain management (GSCM) practices and performance of suppliers.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors draw on institutional theory and resource dependence theory to construct a conceptual model than links institutional drivers, GSCM practices, buyer dependency and performance outcomes. The authors test the hypotheses using partial least squares structural equation modeling applied to a sample of suppliers in the Australian manufacturing sector.

Findings

The results confirm that suppliers develop GSCM practices of green sourcing and eco-design to enhance their performance in response to both coercive forces and voluntary behaviors of their institutional environment. However, buyer dependence of suppliers explains important paradoxes in their uptake of GSCM practices. For example, while the institutional drivers encourage greater adoption of green sourcing by suppliers, increase in buyer dependence in turn reduces the positive performance outcome of green sourcing.

Practical implications

The authors establish that understanding and assessment of the role of buyer dependency is critical for managers in charge of GSCM practices of their company. This enables practitioners to proactively manage paradoxes resulting from institutional drivers and buyer dependency through an informed decision on the type of GSCM practice to be adopted for effectuating performance improvement.

Originality/value

The authors provide empirical evidence on paradoxes that curtail performance associated with the uptake of GSCM practices by suppliers moving beyond institutional environment by considering the role of buyer dependency.
Coping with abusive leaders
Authors: P.B. Srikanth
Published: December 2019

Purpose

More than a decade of research on abusive leader behaviors suggests a consensus regarding its deleterious effects on employees’ contextual performance. Therefore, research on how to cope with abusive leader behaviors is both theoretically and practically important. The purpose of this paper is to examine how individuals’ personality and appropriate coping strategy may jointly help in weakening the negative effects of abusive leader behaviors.

Design/methodology/approach

The study examines the relationship between social support coping strategy and agreeableness. Data collected from full-time employees and their reporting managers were used for analyses. Data were analyzed using moderated regression techniques followed by conditional indirect effects testing.

Findings

The study provides supports to the evidence that the relationship between abusive leader behaviors and contextual performance was weaker for employees high in agreeableness. Additionally, the use of social support coping strategy facilitated a negative relationship between abusive leader behaviors and contextual performance. Finally, the moderating effects of agreeableness were mediated by the use of social support coping strategy.

Research limitations/implications

The study contributes to theories of abusive supervision, personality and coping strategies. The results offer insights into the joint roles of personality and the social support coping strategy that may weaken the negative influence of abusive leader behaviors and contextual performance.

Practical implications

Human resource practitioners may benefit from formally institutionalizing social support through mentoring programs and informally through “buddy” programs for newly joined employees, to understand the organization culture and voice their concerns.

Originality/value

While most studies on abusive leader behavior focused on the deleterious effects, this study is one of the few that explores the role of coping strategy while dealing with abusive leader.
Freshwater salmon aquaculture in Chile and transferable antimicrobial resistance
Authors: Cabello Felipe C. , Godfrey Henry P. , Ivanova Larisa , Shah Syed Q. A. , Sørum Henning , Tomova Alexandra
Published: December 2019

Large amounts of antimicrobials are used in salmonid aquaculture in Chile. Most are used in marine aquaculture, but appreciable amounts are also employed in freshwater aquaculture. Much research and many publications have examined transferable antimicrobial resistance in bacteria isolated from marine salmon farms, but much less attention has been paid to this area in freshwater salmon farming. A recent paper by Domínguez et al. (2019) has as least in part remedied this situation. We now comment on some of its interpretations and have attempted to point out its areas of strength and weakness in light of the published scientific literature. Seen in this setting, the important results presented by Domínguez et al. (2019) underline the need for increased awareness of the challenge to animal and human health posed by excessive use of antimicrobials in aquaculture.
Adjuvant radiotherapy for patients with pathologic node‐negative esophageal carcinoma: A population based propensity matching analysis
Authors: Gao Hui‐Jiang , Shang Xiao‐Bin , Gong Lei , Zhang Hong‐Dian , Ren Peng , Shi Guo‐Dong , Wei Yu‐Cheng , Yu Zhen‐Tao
Published: December 2019

Background

The impact of adjuvant treatment for esophageal carcinoma with tumor‐negative lymph nodes after upfront radical esophagectomy is still uncertain. This study investigated the effects of postoperative radiotherapy in pT1‐3N0 esophageal carcinoma after radical resection.

Method

We retrospectively identified pT1‐3N0M0 esophageal carcinoma patients between 2000 and 2016 from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Patients with upfront esophagectomy were categorized as having received surgery alone (SA) and surgical resection followed by adjuvant radiotherapy (SA + RT). Propensity score matching, univariate and multivariate analysis were performed to compare overall survival (OS) and cause‐specific survival (CSS).

Results

A total of 2862 patients were identified, of whom 274 received SA + RT and 2588 received SA. The median follow‐up was 60.4 months (95%CI, 58.7–62.1 months). The five‐year OS and CSS were better for SA group compared with SA + RT group (P < 0.001, respectively). Furthermore, after matching, the OS and CSS were still significantly better for SA patients. For T subgroup analysis, postoperative radiotherapy was an independent prognostic factor only for pT1 patients with worse OS, without survival differences for pT2 and pT3 patients. However, after multivariate cox analysis, postoperative radiotherapy can provide significantly better OS for pT3 patients with tumor length ≥5 cm (P = 0.03; 95%CI, 0.29–0.94).

Conclusions

Among pT1‐3N0M0 esophageal carcinoma patients, postoperative radiotherapy can provide significantly better OS for pT3 patients with tumor length ≥5 cm. However, there are no survival benefits for pT1‐2 patients after SA + RT procedure. This finding may have significant implications on the use of adjuvant radiation in patients with pN0 disease.
Immunotherapy at any line of treatment improves survival in patients with advanced metastatic non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) compared with chemotherapy (Quijote‐CLICaP)
Authors: Ruiz‐Patiño Alejandro , Arrieta Oscar , Cardona Andrés F. , Martín Claudio , Raez Luis E. , Zatarain‐Barrón Zyanya L. , Barrón Feliciano , Ricaurte Luisa , Bravo‐Garzón María A. , Mas Luis , Corrales Luis , Rojas Leonardo , Lupinacci Lorena , Perazzo Florencia , Bas Carlos , Carranza Omar , Puparelli Carmen , Rizzo Manglio , Ruiz Rossana , Rolfo Christian , Archila Pilar , Rodríguez July , Sotelo Carolina , Vargas Carlos , Carranza Hernán , Otero Jorge , Pino Luis E. , Ortíz Carlos , Laguado Paola , Rosell Rafael ,   on behalf of the CLICaP
Published: December 2019

Background

To compare survival outcomes of patients with advanced or metastatic non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who received immunotherapy as first‐, second‐ or beyond line, versus matched patients receiving standard chemotherapy with special characterization of hyperprogressors.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of 296 patients with unresectable/metastatic NSCLC treated with either, first‐, second‐, third‐ or fourth‐line of immunotherapy was conducted. A matched comparison with a historical cohort of first‐line chemotherapy and a random forest tree analysis to characterize hyperprogressors was conducted.

Results

Median age was 64 years (range 34–90), 40.2% of patients were female. A total of 91.2% of patients had an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance score ≤ 1. Immunotherapy as first‐line was given to 39 patients (13.7%), second‐line to 140 (48.8%), and as third‐line and beyond to 108 (37.6%). Median overall survival was 12.7 months (95% CI 9.67–14 months) and progression‐free survival (PFS) of 4.27 months (95% CI 3.97–5.0). Factors associated with increased survival included treatment with immunotherapy as first‐line (P < 0.001), type of response (P < 0.001) and PD‐L1 status (P = 0.0039). Compared with the historical cohort, immunotherapy proved to be superior in terms of OS (P = 0.05) but not PFS (P = 0.2). A total of 44 hyperprogressors were documented (19.8%, [95% CI 14.5–25.1%]). Leukocyte count over 5.300 cells/dL was present in both hyperprogressors and long‐term responders.

Conclusions

Patients who receive immune‐checkpoint inhibitors as part of their treatment for NSCLC have better overall survival (OS) compared with matched patients treated with standard chemotherapy, regardless of the line of treatment.
Short interruptions between pre‐warming and intraoperative warming are associated with low intraoperative hypothermia rates
Authors: Grote Rolf , Wetz Anna , Bräuer Anselm , Menzel Matthias
Published: December 2019

Background

Prevention of inadvertent hypothermia is recommended for procedures >30 minutes because hypothermia increases the risk of myocardial ischemia, intraoperative blood loss, transfusion and wound complications. Therefore, short warming interruptions between pre‐warming and intraoperative warming might result in lower hypothermia rates. The aim of this retrospective investigation was to determine whether the incidence of inadvertent intraoperative hypothermia was affected by the warming interruption.

Methods

The lowest intraoperative body core temperature value and the warming interruption time were taken from anaesthesia records. Body core temperature was recorded continuously, and a patient was classified to be hypothermic if the lowest recorded temperature value was <36°C. Hypothermia rates and the correlation between warming interruption times and intraoperative hypothermia rates were calculated.

Results

Five thousand eighty‐four patients were analysed. The intraoperative hypothermia rate was 15.3%. Nineteen patients (0.4%) had a recorded temperature of <35.0°C. An increase in forced‐air warming interruption time was significantly associated with an increase in intraoperative hypothermia rates (P < .0001). Patients with interruptions in forced‐air warming >20 minutes showed significantly higher hypothermia rates than those with interruptions of ≤20 minutes (P < .0001).

Conclusion

Intraoperative hypothermia rates increased significantly with longer forced‐air warming interruptions between pre‐warming and intraoperative warming. Short warming interruptions can preserve the effect of pre‐warming and are associated with low intraoperative hypothermia rates.
Flow‐controlled ventilation improves gas exchange in lung‐healthy patients— a randomized interventional cross‐over study
Authors: Weber Jonas , Schmidt Johannes , Straka Leonie , Wirth Steffen , Schumann Stefan
Published: December 2019

Background

Flow‐controlled ventilation (FCV) is a new ventilation mode that provides constant inspiratory and expiratory flow. FCV was shown to improve gas exchange and lung recruitment in porcine models of healthy and injured ventilated lungs. The primary aim of our study was to verify the influences of FCV on gas exchange, respiratory mechanics and haemodynamic variables in mechanically ventilated lung‐healthy patients.

Methods

After obtaining ethical approval and informed consent, we measured arterial blood gases, respiratory and haemodynamic variables during volume‐controlled ventilation (VCV) and FCV in 20 consecutive patients before they underwent abdominal surgery. After baseline (BL) ventilation, patients were randomly assigned to either BL‐VCV‐FCV or BL‐FCV‐VCV. Thereby, BL ventilation settings were kept, except for the ventilation mode‐related differences (FCV is supposed to be used with an I:E ratio of 1:1).

Results

Compared to BL and VCV, PaO2 was higher [PaO2: FCV: 38.2 (7.1), BL ventilation: 35.0 (5.8), VCV: 35.2 (7.0) kPa, P < .001] and PaCO2 lower [PaCO2: FCV: 4.8 (0.5), BL ventilation: 5.1 (0.5), VCV: 5.1 (0.5) kPa, P < .001] during FCV. With comparable plateau pressure [BL: 14.9 (1.9), VCV: 15.3 (1.6), FCV: 15.2 (1.5) cm H2O), P = .185], tracheal mean pressure was higher during FCV [BL: 10.2 (1.1), VCV: 10.4 (0.7), FCV: 11.5 (1.0) cm H2O, P < .001]. Haemodynamic variables did not differ between ventilation phases.

Conclusion

Flow‐controlled ventilation improves oxygenation and carbon dioxide elimination within a short time, compared to VCV with identical tidal volume, inspiratory plateau pressure and end‐expiratory pressure.