bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ZIKA virus effects on neuroprogenitors are exacerbated by the main pyriproxyfen metabolite via thyroid hormone signaling disruption
Authors: Spirhanzlova Petra , Sébillot Anthony , Vancamp Pieter , Gothié Jean-David , Mével Sébastien Le , Leemans Michelle , Wejaphikul Karn , Meima Marcel , Mughal Bilal B. , Butruille Lucile , Roques Pierre , Remaud Sylvie , Fini Jean-Baptiste , Demeneix Barbara A.
Published: November 2020

North-Eastern Brazil saw intensive application of the insecticide pyriproxyfen (PPF) during the microcephaly outbreak caused by Zika virus (ZIKV). ZIKV requires the neural RNA-binding protein Musashi-1 to replicate. TH repressesMSI1. Being a suspected TH disruptor, we hypothesized that co-exposure to the main metabolite of PPF, 4’-OH-PPF, would exacerbate ZIKV effects through increased MSI1 expression. This was tested usingin vitromouse neurospheres and anin vivoTH signaling reporter model,Xenopus laevis. TH signaling was decreased by 4’-OH-PPF in both models. In mouse-derived neurospheres the metabolite reduced neuroprogenitor proliferation as well as markers of neuronal differentiation. The results demonstrated that 4’-OH-PPF significantly induced MSI1 at both the mRNA and protein level, as well asFasnmRNA. Other TH target genes were also significantly modified. Importantly, several key genes implicated in neuroprogenitor fate and commitment were not dysregulated by 4’-OH-PPF alone, but were in combination with ZIKV infection. These included the neuroprogenitor markersNestin, Egfr, Gfap, Dlx2andDcx. Unexpectedly, 4’-OH-PPF decreased ZIKV replication, although only at the fourth and last day of incubation, and RNA copy numbers stayed within the same order of magnitude. However, intracellular RNA content of neuroprogenitors was significantly decreased in the combined presence of the PPF metabolite and ZIKV. We conclude that 4’-OH-PPF interferes with TH actionin vivoandin vitro, inhibiting neuroprogenitor proliferation. In the presence of ZIKV, TH signaling pathways crucial for cortical development are significantly impacted. This provides another example of viral effects that are exacerbated by drug or pesticide use.

Significance statement

In 2015, an increase in children born with unusually small heads (microcephaly) in North-Eastern Brazil was linked to infection with the ZIKA virus. An insecticide with thyroid hormone disruptive properties was used in the same areas. We investigated whether simultaneous exposure to the insecticide could increase viral susceptibility. The main metabolite 4’-OH-PPF dysregulated thyroid hormone signaling pathways crucial for brain development in both models used. Neural stem cells proliferated less and contained more Musashi-1, a protein the virus needs to replicate. Infecting stem cells pre-exposed to the endocrine disruptor did not amplify viral replication, but aggravated expression of genes implicated in brain development. Our results suggest the insecticide is particularly deleterious to brain development in areas with ZIKA virus prevalence.
Early immune response in mice immunized with a semi-split inactivated vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 containing S protein-free particles and subunit S protein
Authors: Petráš Marek , Lesný Petr , Musil Jan , Limberková Radomíra , Pátíková Alžběta , Jirsa Milan , Krsek Daniel , Březovský Pavel , Koladiya Abhishek , Vaníková Šárka , Macková Barbora , Jírová Dagmar , Krijt Matyáš , Králová Lesná Ivana , Adámková Věra
Published: November 2020

The development of a vaccine against COVID-19 is a hot topic for many research laboratories all over the world. Our aim was to design a semi-split inactivated vaccine offering a wide range of multi-epitope determinants important for the immune system including not only the spike (S) protein but also the envelope, membrane and nucleocapsid proteins. We designed a semi-split vaccine prototype consisting of S protein-depleted viral particles and free S protein. Next, we investigated its immunogenic potential in BALB/c mice. The animals were immunized intradermally or intramuscularly with the dose adjusted with buffer or addition of aluminum hydroxide, respectively. The antibody response was evaluated by plasma analysis at 7 days after the first or second dose. The immune cell response was studied by flow cytometry analysis of splenocytes. The data showed a very early onset of both S protein-specific antibodies and virus-neutralizing antibodies at 90% inhibition regardless of the route of vaccine administration. However, significantly higher levels of neutralizing antibodies were detected in the intradermally (geometric mean titer - GMT of 7.8 ± 1.4) than in the intramuscularly immunized mice (GMT of 6.2 ± 1.5). In accordance with this, stimulation of cellular immunity by the semi-split vaccine was suggested by elevated levels of B and T lymphocyte subpopulations in the murine spleens. These responses were more predominant in the intradermally immunized mice compared with the intramuscular route of administration. The upward trend in the levels of plasmablasts, memory B cells, Th1 and Th2 lymphocytes, including follicular helper T cells, was confirmed even in mice receiving the vaccine intradermally at a dose of 0.5 μg.

We demonstrated that the semi-split vaccine is capable of eliciting both humoral and cellular immunity early after vaccination. Our prototype thus represents a promising step toward the development of an efficient anti-COVID-19 vaccine for human use.
The Mitochondrial Permeability Transition Pore Activates the Mitochondrial Unfolded Protein Response and Promotes Aging
Authors: Angeli Suzanne , Foulger Anna C. , Chamoli Manish , Peiris Tanuja Harshani , Gerencser Akos A. , Shahmirzadi Azar Asadi , Andersen Julie K. , Lithgow Gordon J.
Published: November 2020

Mitochondrial activity determines aging rate and the onset of chronic diseases. The mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) is a pathological pore in the inner mitochondrial membrane thought to be composed of the F-ATP synthase (complex V). OSCP, a subunit of F-ATP synthase, helps protect against mPTP formation. How the destabilization of OSCP may contribute to aging, however, is unclear. We have found that loss OSCP in the nematodeCaenorhabditis elegansinitiates the mPTP and shortens lifespan specifically during adulthood, in part via initiation of the mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt). Pharmacological or genetic inhibition of the mPTP inhibits the UPRmtand restores normal lifespan. Loss of the putative pore-forming component of F-ATP synthase extends adult lifespan, suggesting that the mPTP normally promotes aging. Our findings reveal how an mPTP/UPRmtnexus may contribute to aging and age-related diseases and how inhibition of the UPRmtmay be protective under certain conditions.
Rapid conversion of replicating and integratingSaccharomyces cerevisiaeplasmid vectors via Cre recombinase
Authors: Nickerson Daniel P. , Quinn Monique A. , Milnes Joshua M.
Published: November 2020

Plasmid shuttle vectors capable of replication in bothSaccharomyces cerevisiaeandEscherichia coliand optimized for controlled modificationin vitroandin vivoare a key resource supporting yeast as a premier system for genetics research and synthetic biology. We have engineered a series of yeast shuttle vectors optimized for efficient insertion, removal and substitution of plasmid yeast replication loci, allowing generation of a complete set of integrating, low copy and high copy plasmids via predictable operations as an alternative to traditional subcloning. We demonstrate the utility of this system through modification of replication loci via Cre recombinase, bothin vitroandin vivo, and restriction endonuclease treatments.
Isolation and biophysical characterization of GSU0105, a triheme c-type cytochrome fromGeobacter sulfurreducens
Authors: Brittain Tyler J. , O’Malley Matthew C. , Swaim Coleman M. , Fink Reilly A. , Kokhan Oleksandr
Published: November 2020

C-type cytochromes play an important role in respiration of dissimilatory metal-reducing bacteria. They form extended conduits for charge transfer between the cellular metabolism and external electron acceptors such as particles of iron oxide, metal ions, and humic substances. Out of more than a hundred c-type cytochromes inGeobacter sulfurreducens, only a small fraction has been previously characterized. Here we present our results on expression and biophysical characterization of GSU0105, a novel 3-heme cytochrome, important for Fe(III) respiration inG. sulfurreducens. We successfully cloned the gene and achieved ~3 mg/L of culture GSU0105 expression inE.coli. Despite a similar size (71 amino acids) and the same number of c-type hemes to the members of the cytochrome (cyt) c7family, multiple sequence alignment suggests that GSU0105 does not belong to the cyt c7family. UV-Vis spectroscopy revealed typical c-type cytochrome spectral features, including a weak iron-sulfur charge transfer band suggesting that at least one heme is ligated with a methionine residue. Far UV circular dichroism studies demonstrate approximately 35% content of α-helices and β-sheets, each, as well as thermal aggregation occurring above 60 °C. A combination of SAXS and analytical size exclusion chromatography data shows that GSU0105 is monomeric in solution. Finally, affinity pull-down assays demonstrate high binding affinity to PpcD and weaker binding to the other members of the cyt c7family.
BRAF controls the effects of metformin on neuroblast cell divisions inC. elegans
Authors: Qu Zhi , Ji Shaoping , Zheng Shanqing
Published: November 2020

Metformin has demonstrated substantial potential for use in cancer treatments. LKB-AMPK and mTOR are reported to be the main targets of metformin in relation to its ability to prevent cancer cell proliferation. However, the role of metformin in the control of neoplastic cancer cell growth is possibly independent of LKB-AMPK and mTOR. UsingC. elegansas a model, we found that the neuronal Q-cell divisions in L1-arrested worms were suppressed following metformin treatment in AMPK-deficient mutants, suggesting that the mechanism by which metformin suppresses these cell divisions is independent of AMPK. Our results showed that the mTOR pathway indeed played a role in controlling germ cell proliferation, but it was not involved in the neuronal Q-cell divisions occurring in L1-arrested worms. We found that the neuronal Q-cells divisions were hold at G1/S cell stage by metforminin vivo. Additionally, we demonstrated that metformin could reduce the phosphorylation activity of BRAF and block the BRAF-MAPK oncogenesis pathway to regulate neuronal Q-cell divisions during L1 arrest. This work discloses a new mechanism by which metformin treatment acts to promote neuronal cancer prevention, and these results will help promote the study of the anticancer mechanisms underlying metformin treatments.
The building blocks of organizational resilience: a review of the empirical literature
Authors: Vakilzadeh Kijan , Haase Alexander
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Resilience is critical for organizations in today's volatile business environment, yet some will survive (and even thrive) despite adversity, while others will perish. Why do some organizations handle adversity better than others? The past literature confirms the importance of specific resources, capabilities and structures in dealing with adversity. However, empirical research on organizational resilience remains highly diverse, and the available results have not yet been presented succinctly.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review of empirical research on organizational resilience was conducted to summarize the diverse findings of 69 studies, focusing on the factors that lead to resilience.

Findings

Several building blocks affect how organizations successfully anticipate, cope with and adapt to adversity. Anticipation entails environmental scanning, resilience plans, specific leadership behavior and resources. Coping necessitates particular leadership qualities, a certain organizational culture and innovation. Adaptation requires an organization to learn from adversity and initiate change processes, which influences its ability to anticipate adversity in the long run.

Originality/value

By exclusively analyzing empirical research on organizational resilience, this study summarizes and assembles the results into building blocks for organizational resilience. The findings elaborate on the composition of a concept that is known for its complexity.
Conditional factors for training activities in Chinese, Indian and Mexican subsidiaries of German companies
Authors: Vogelsang Beke , Pilz Matthias
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the qualification measures of 12 German multi-national companies (MNCs), all of which are present in China, India and Mexico. In particular, the transfer of dual initial training practices and further training measures are investigated. It examines the impact consistent training strategies across national borders have emerged in German companies or local arrangements have developed despite identical internal influencing factors.

Design/methodology/approach

Because of its design, the focus is on the external factors that influence the companies’ training measures. However, an exploratory approach was followed. To pursue the research question face-to-face expert interviews were conducted with 46 training managers in 12 active companies in all 3 countries. The interviews were completely transcribed and evaluated using qualitative methods.

Findings

The analysis shows that it is not internal company factors but country-specific contextual factors that influence training measures and that companies cannot act in the same way worldwide.

Research limitations/implications

The study is based on 12 MNC and only analyses the blue-collar area. Therefore, it would have to be evaluated whether a similar analysis would result from a survey of other companies in different sectors or whether the differences in terms of training and further training measures would then be even greater.

Practical implications

The study supports the internationalization strategies of MNC by providing first-hand empirical results concerning recruitment and training of blue colour workers on an intermediate skill level. It gives evidence on the need of national adaptation in the process of transferring training cultures from countries of origin into the host countries. More attention must, therefore, be paid to external factors when developing and implementing training measures.

Social implications

The economic development in many countries includes an expansion of foreign investments. MNC provides employment and income for workers and their families. However, successful foreign investments also include sustainable recruitment and training strategies of the local workforce. The results of the study support policymakers to guide and support foreign companies to develop successful Human Resource Management strategies in the host countries.

Originality/value

This paper is original because due to the research design the internal factors are kept largely constant and the external influencing factors are singularly focused in detail. Therefore, this procedure makes it possible to investigate whether consistency training strategies across national borders have emerged in German companies or local arrangements have developed despite identical internal influencing factors.
How is HRD related to other disciplines? The analysis of 100 most frequently cited empirical articles published in three HRD journals
Authors: Seo Jaekyo , Lee Suhyung , Ardichvili Alexandre
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Human resource development (HRD) as an applied discipline is an example of a scholarly field that has emerged through the collaboration of scholars and practitioners with backgrounds in various foundational disciplines. This study interested in both the influence of other disciplines on HRD research and in HRD’s influence on other disciplines. The purpose of this study is to take stock of the relationships between HRD research and research in other academic disciplines affecting and affected by HRD research.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used content analysis of the top 100 most frequently cited empirical articles published in three HRD journals between 2000 and 2019 to identify disciplinary foundations of HRD research. The influence of HRD on other disciplines was scrutinized through citation analysis of work citing the top 100 articles. In addition, categorizing the 100 articles into six research themes, the influence of six research themes on citation patterns was explored.

Findings

The findings indicated that empirical research in HRD, as represented by the top 100 articles, relied mainly on theories and frameworks from two disciplines, management and psychology. Another important finding is that the top 100 HRD articles were cited most often in management publications and the rate of citation in management journals has been growing rapidly since 2005. The citation frequency of HRD articles in other disciplines including psychology, social sciences, education and medicine and nursing shows a general upward trend as well. In addition, there was a difference in disciplines providing theoretical foundations to the HRD articles and citing the articles depending on six predominant research themes, identified in HRD articles.

Originality/value

This study empirically identified theories and disciplines contributing to HRD research, considering the influence of cited research on the HRD articles through content analysis. In addition, the findings of this study broadened the understanding of the relationship between HRD research and other disciplines by examining the contributions of HRD articles to other disciplines. Finally, this research provided new information regarding the changes in dominant themes in HRD research over time.
Women leading change: re-shaping gender in Ghanaian mines
Authors: Kilu Rufai Haruna , Omorede Adesuwa , Uden Maria , Sanda Mohammed-Aminu
Published: November 2020

Purpose

There is growing attention towards inclusive mining to make an economic case for gender equality and diversity in the industry. Available literature lacks sufficient empirical evidence on the subject matter in Ghana. Therefore, this paper aims to understudy women miners in Ghana and document their role in recent change regimes in mine works gender profiles. An observed change that is stimulating a shift in background dispositions leads to increasing number of women taking up mine jobs.

Design/methodology/approach

In working towards achieving the aim of the study, both qualitative design and a multiple case study approaches are deployed. Four multinational Ghanaian mines and a mining and technology university were used to understudy the women miners and their role towards a change in mine work gender perspectives.

Findings

The results showed a regime of “ore-solidarity movement” (women in mining – Ghana). A kind of solidarity identified conventionally as a social movement in active resource and self-mobilization, engaged in a symbolic contestation for change of the status quo (dominant masculinity cultures) in furtherance of gender equity and inclusion in milieu of mine works reforms in Ghana.

Originality/value

The study is of high scientific, political and public interest to better understand women’s movements in the mining industries in Ghana and to frame them theoretically. It offers solid empirical evidence on roles women miners play to ensure gender shape-shifting and liberalizing the mining space for women’s participation. This move towards inclusive mining implies poverty eradication among women, work towards achieving sustainable mining, competitiveness and assurance for gender-driven social innovative mining.
An economic production model with imperfect quality components and probabilistic lead times
Authors: El-Kassar Abdul-Nasser , Ishizaka Alessio , Temouri Yama , Al Sagheer Abdullah , Vaz Daicy
Published: November 2020

Purpose

This study investigates a production process that requires N kinds of components for the production of a finished product. The producer orders the various kinds of components from different suppliers and receives the orders in lots at the beginning of each production cycle. Similar to situations often encountered in real life, the lead times are random variables with known probability distributions so that a production cycle starts whenever all N kinds of components become available. Each of the lots received at the start of a production run contains both perfect and imperfect quality components. Once all N kinds of components become available, the producer initiates a screening process to detect the imperfect components. The production of the finished product uses only perfect quality components. The imperfect components are removed from inventory whenever the screening process is completed. The percentage of components of perfect quality present in each lot is a random variable with a known probability distribution.

Design/methodology/approach

This production process is described and modeled mathematically and the optimal production/ordering policy is derived based on the mathematical model.

Findings

The formulated mathematical model resulted in the determination of the optimal policy consisting of the optimal number of finished items ordered to be produce during each production run, the number of components ordered from each supplier, and the reorder point. The derived closed form expression for the optimal lot size depends on the minimum of the number of perfect quality components in a lot, whereas the reorder point is determined based on the maximum lead time.

Practical implications

The modeling approach and results of this study provide practical implications that may be beneficial to both production and supply chain managers as well as researchers.

Originality/value

This modeling approach that incorporates decision-making related to the logistics of acquiring the components and accounts for the probabilistic nature of the lead times and quality of components addresses a gap in the logistics/production literature.
Digitalization opportunities for the procurement function: pathways to maturity
Authors: Seyedghorban Zahra , Samson Danny , Tahernejad Hossein
Published: November 2020

Purpose

This research aims at investigating the common practical problem of how procurement can be transformed from tactical and administrative to becoming an organizational strategic partner and indeed a competitive weapon, using modern technologies in particular. We investigated how procurement can be reinvented, from being digitized to digitalized to digitally integrated, ultimately contributing in business terms beyond supply chain effectiveness but also to profit generation.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study approach was designed to investigate three firms, each at very different stages of digital maturity in procurement. Interviews with managers, investigation of processes and documentary materials and in-depth follow-up discussions were conducted.

Findings

The iterative digitalization transformation discovered encompasses complexities rooted in organizational structure, supply chain design and the management of the technology for employees' uptake. There are both operations and strategy implications as a result. This initial research phase led to mapping a model of digital maturity as well as identifying its underlying constructs.

Originality/value

This research discovered that the implementation of digital technologies can lead the procurement function of the supply chain to completely grow out of its administrative and clerical shell into a strategic, consultative, value-adding and potentially revenue-generating function, thereby contributing to the well-being of not only the supply chain but also the entire organization.
Cybersecurity and global regulatory challenges
Authors: Bechara Fabio Ramazzini , Schuch Samara Bueno
Published: November 2020

Purpose

This study aims to define objectively what are the elements that should be considered in the repositioning of international cooperation, less under its value, which is unquestionable, but more under the optics of the procedure, how can it be operationalized. International cooperation goes beyond the regulatory effort, which, although an important step, is insufficient. It is inserted in an environment in which there is a multiplicity of forces and instances, non-converging and tensioned. At the same time, in the authors’ view, it is not about cooperation between states or between states and international organizations only, it must understand the private sector equally, which has the expressive property of the technologies used.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses an interdisciplinary approach, and the method of analysis is the typothetical deductive.

Findings

Cybersecurity as a global and complex issue demands cooperation between nations, but also the private sector and civil society engagement. It also demands a good governance in the decision making process, more integrated, accurated and precised.

Originality/value

This study is original, and it represents a special concern and vision from professional and academic fields.
Efficacy of rtsa-byugs vs diclofenac gel in relieving knee pain of patients with osteoarthritis of the knee
Authors: Nidup Dorji , Kietinun Somboon , Niempoog Sunyarn , Sriyakul Kusuma
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Rtsa-byugs, a massage oil from Bhutan, is a traditional herbal formula known for its anti-inflammatory properties and used in osteoarthritis treatment. This study investigates the efficacy of rtsa-byugs vs diclofenacgel in relieving knee pain in osteoarthritis patients.

Design/methodology/approach

A single-blind, randomized controlled trial was conducted amongst osteoarthritis knee patients at an orthopedic outpatient department of Thammasat University Hospital. Participants were randomly allocated to the rtsa-byugs (N = 31) or the Diclofenac gel (N = 31) group. Primary outcomes were assessed by the knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome scores (KOOS), visual analog scale (VAS) and goniometer at day 0, 1, 3, 7.

Findings

62 participants completed the study. The result of the KOOS scores demonstrated a significant improvement of symptoms at the end of the study in both treatment groups. Improvement of symptoms, pain, daily life living, sport and recreational score and quality of life assessment showed a significant difference from baseline (p < 0.001) within both groups. The quality of life score for the rtsa-byugs group increased significantly on day 3 and 7. The VAS score in both groups decreased with a significant difference from baseline to day 7. The mean value of extension of angle measurement was decreased in day 7, and the mean of flexion score increased in both groups when compared with the baseline.

Research limitations/implications

The duration of the study was very limited and included a small sample consisting of men and women.

Originality/value

Rtsa-byugs is safe and effective in relieving pain from osteoarthritis of the knee and can be used as an alternative treatment for knee osteoarthritis.
Employee learning stimulated by manager-as-coach
Authors: Lyons Paul , Bandura Randall
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the ways a manager in a coaching role may influence employees to embrace a learning orientation based upon the growth mindset. Conceptual in nature, this paper uses recent research, interpretations, explanations and suggestions to propose how manager-as-coach can informally and formally apply basic interventions to assist employee learning and change.

Design/methodology/approach

Based upon a review of relevant literature of theory and practice using several search tools, the authors have isolated a few critical areas to explore to include role of the coach, performance appraisal – the stimulus for manager-as-coach interaction with an employee, feedback orientation and environment, the growth mindset and learning orientation and the dynamics of self-regulated learning. Information from these areas is integrated to inform practitioners of approaches to take in a manager-as-coach role.

Findings

Included for each of the main segments presented are specific, practitioner “Commitment advice/action agendas” for manager-as-coach to stimulate and guide employee learning. These agendas contribute sound, practical information to the body of information concerned with manager-as-coach.

Originality/value

A contribution this work makes is to propose how learning orientation and the growth mindset are intertwined to the extent they assist the manager-as-coach supply the motivational support for employee learning. The resultant learning may lead to one or more of: improved work performance, individual development, attitudes toward learning and increased employee commitment or engagement.
Knowledge transfer and translation in cultural ecosystems
Authors: Dameri Renata Paola , Demartini Paola
Published: November 2020

Purpose

This paper concerns the pivotal role that entrepreneurial universities can play in developing knowledge transfer and translation processes tailored to the cultural ecosystem.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper examines IncubiAmo Cultura, an innovative project that aims to mentor potential entrepreneurs and offer incubation and acceleration for cultural start-ups. The research methodology is based on action research and theory building from cases. An interventionist approach has been adopted, as one of the authors is also the founder of the ongoing project.

Findings

The in-depth collection of first-hand information on this pilot project has allowed the authors to formulate an analytical reflection and generate the design of a knowledge translation model driven by an entrepreneurial university that manifests itself through the creation of cultural and creative start-ups.

Research limitations/implications

This article offers an original contribution to scholarship by offering a conceptual model for knowledge translation in cultural ecosystems. Common values (i.e. social, cultural, ethical and aesthetic ones) emerge as the basis on which to build open innovation and knowledge circulation.

Practical implications

For local policymakers, this study provides a clue to understand the need for both an integrated vision of knowledge translation and policies that aim to make an impact at the cultural ecosystem level. For entrepreneurial university governance, our investigation offers suggestions on the design and implementation of knowledge translation processes that fit with the specificity of the cultural ecosystem. For practitioners in the cultural field, a change of mindset is required to combine resources, energies and knowledge.

Originality/value

This work fills several gaps in the literature, as research generally concerns knowledge transfer from entrepreneurial universities to the market with regard to high-tech sectors. In contrast, the cultural sector is often neglected, despite its importance in the renewal and development of a territory.
Chinese Super League stock prices and team performance
Authors: Mao Eric , Soebbing Brian P. , Watanabe Nicholas M.
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Utilizing the capital asset pricing model (CAPM), the purpose is to analyze whether the stock prices of the corporation that owns sport teams fluctuate based on team performance in the Chinese Super League (CSL).

Design/methodology/approach

Several CSL teams are publicly owned corporations. As such, the authors look to see if on-field performance impacts the stock price of the firms. Using the news model from previous research, seemingly unrelated regressions are estimated on CSL games from 2014 through 2017.

Findings

The results from the main models indicate some evidence of a statistical relationship between on-field team performance and stock price. Furthermore, the findings for individual teams across markets did not hold consistent across different markets. More specifically, the authors found some instances where successful on-field performance led to a decline in stock prices.

Originality/value

The present study further contributes to the growing literature related to on-field performance and stock prices. Unlike previous research, the use of the CSL as the empirical setting provides the opportunity to use multiple stock markets which provides an opportunity to further examine this relationship. Finally, the study contributes broadly to the literature on professional sports ownership structures around the world.
Impact sourcing for employment of persons with disabilities
Authors: Matsumoto Katsuo
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Using case studies of business process outsourcing enterprises in India, this study aims to discuss how impact sourcing is used to provide employment opportunities to persons with disabilities (PWDs) and summarizes the business factors associated with successful impact sourcing for PWDs.

Design/methodology/approach

The effect of impact sourcing on the employment of PWDs is a newly emerging phenomenon, and this study focuses on the impact-sourcing mechanism and investigates whether such sourcing contributes to promoting PWD employment in India. It does so by examining the business model characteristics of organizations through case studies.

Findings

The results show that effective training systems and operational styles enable continuous market competitiveness for social enterprises. The case studies also demonstrate that it is possible to expand businesses by transferring and replicating management know-how through an organization’s operating model. It also highlights the catalytic role of impact sourcing service providers in promoting formal PWD employment in a labor market where the informal economy is dominant. Central and local governments’ support for social enterprises may promote formal employment of PWDs, an internationally-recognized goal.

Originality/value

Impact sourcing for PWDs is an emerging field. This study offers a new contribution to existing work integration social enterprises literature by providing new insight into effective ways of achieving employment for PWDs through outsourcing business. This study highlights the important role of social enterprises in achieving formal employment of PWDs.
Poor sleep is associated with higher blood pressure and uterine artery pulsatility index in pregnancy: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Tang Y , Zhang J , Dai F , Razali NS , Tagore S , Chern BSM , Tan KH
Published: November 2020

Objective

To elucidate the association between sleep disturbances and blood pressure as well as uterine artery Doppler during pregnancy in women with no pre‐existing hypertension.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Outpatient specialist clinics at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Singapore.

Population

Women with viable singleton pregnancies confirmed by ultrasonography at less than 14 weeks of amenorrhoea at first visit.

Methods

In all, 926 subjects were recruited for this study in the outpatient specialist clinics at KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Singapore, between 1 September 2010 and 31 August 2014. They were followed up throughout pregnancy with sleep quality, blood pressure and uterine artery Doppler assessed at each visit.

Main outcome measures

Sleep quality, blood pressure and uterine artery Doppler.

Results

Sleep progressively worsened as pregnancy advanced. Shorter sleep duration and poorer sleep efficiency were associated with higher blood pressure, especially in the first trimester. Mixed model analysis demonstrated an overall positive association between sleep quality represented by Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) score and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (P < 0.001) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) (P = 0.005) during pregnancy after considering all trimesters. Sleep duration was found to be negatively associated with both systolic blood pressure (SBP) (P = 0.029) and DBP (P = 0.002), whereas sleep efficiency was negatively correlated with DBP (P = 0.002) only. Overall poor sleep during pregnancy was also found to be associated with a higher uterine artery pulsatility index.

Conclusion

Our prospective study demonstrated that poor sleep quality is significantly associated with higher blood pressure and uterine artery pulsatility index during pregnancy.

Tweetable abstract

Poor sleep quality is significantly associated with higher blood pressure and higher uterine artery pulsatility index during pregnancy.
The relationship between resited epidural catheters after secondary epidural catheter failure and vaginal delivery: A retrospective case‐control study
Authors: Orbach‐Zinger Sharon , Eidelman Leonid. A. , A.Wazwaz Susan , Ben‐Haroush Avi , Fireman Shlomo , Heesen Michael , Hadar Eran , Weiniger Carolyn F , Kornilov Evgeniya
Published: November 2020

Background

There are cases where epidural analgesia is initially effective but subsequently fails and needs to be resited. We evaluated the rate of normal vaginal delivery and operative delivery among parturients who had resited epidurals compared to parturients with epidurals that were not resited.

Methods

A retrospective electronic medical review of parturients with a singleton gestation attempting normal vaginal delivery under epidural analgesia between the years 2012‐2016 was conducted. Resited epidurals were defined as epidurals that were considered effective but subsequently removed and reinserted. For each resited epidural, two previous and two consecutive deliveries of parturients with normally functioning epidural catheter inserted by the same anesthesiologist were matched controls (non‐resited epidurals).

Results

There were 35,984 attempted vaginal deliveries with 118 resited epidurals and 472 non‐resited epidurals. When adjusted for nulliparity, oxytocin administration, sex and weight of the baby, and maternal BMI, labor epidural catheter replacement was not associated with need for instrumental or caesarean delivery, (OR 1.5, 95% CI 0.91‐2.49, P = .11).

Conclusions

Need for labor epidural catheter replacement does not appear to be associated with need for operative delivery based on this single‐centre cohort analysis.
Rapamycin‐mediated mouse lifespan extension: Late‐life dosage regimes with sex‐specific effects
Authors: Strong Randy , Miller Richard A. , Bogue Molly , Fernandez Elizabeth , Javors Martin A. , Libert Sergiy , Marinez Paul Anthony , Murphy Michael P. , Musi Nicolas , Nelson James F. , Petrascheck Michael , Reifsnyder Peter , Richardson Arlan , Salmon Adam B. , Macchiarini Francesca , Harrison David E.
Published: November 2020

To see if variations in timing of rapamycin (Rapa), administered to middle aged mice starting at 20 months, would lead to different survival outcomes, we compared three dosing regimens. Initiation of Rapa at 42 ppm increased survival significantly in both male and female mice. Exposure to Rapa for a 3‐month period led to significant longevity benefit in males only. Protocols in which each month of Rapa treatment was followed by a month without Rapa exposure were also effective in both sexes, though this approach was less effective than continuous exposure in female mice. Interpretation of these results is made more complicated by unanticipated variation in patterns of weight gain, prior to the initiation of the Rapa treatment, presumably due to the use of drug‐free food from two different suppliers. The experimental design included tests of four other drugs, minocycline, β‐guanidinopropionic acid, MitoQ, and 17‐dimethylaminoethylamino‐17‐demethoxygeldanamycin (17‐DMAG), but none of these led to a change in survival in either sex.
Acetaminophen, Nonsteroidal Anti‐inflammatory Drugs, or Combination of Both Analgesics in Acute Posttrauma Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Msolli Mohamed Amine , Sekma Adel , Toumia Marwa , Bel Haj Ali Khaoula , Khalil Mohamed Hassen , Grissa Mohamed Habib , Bouida Wahid , Beltaief Kaouthar , Zorgati Asma , Methamem Mehdi , Belguith Asma , Boukef Riadh , Boubaker Hamdi , Nouira Semir
Published: November 2020

Objectives

Nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen (also called paracetamol) are the most frequent analgesics used to relieve posttrauma pain in the emergency department (ED). However, the utility of combining both treatments is still controversial. We sought to explore the benefits of combining an NSAID with acetaminophen compared to acetaminophen alone, or NSAID alone, in the treatment of posttraumatic pain of the extremity after discharge from the ED.

Methods

This is a prospective, randomized controlled trial, carried out in a single ED from March 2017 to November 2018. The included patients were randomly assigned to receive paracetamol alone, high‐dose NSAID (piroxicam) alone, or a combination of paracetamol and high‐dose NSAID for 7 days after ED discharge. The primary outcome was need for additional oral analgesics. Secondary outcomes included the change of the visual numeric scale (VNS) between ED discharge (VNS D0) and 7 days later (VNS D7), ED revisits for residual pain, side effects, and patient satisfaction as assessed by a Likert satisfaction scale.

Results

The need for additional oral analgesics was comparable between the paracetamol–NSAID combination group (9.8%) and the paracetamol group (11.4%; p = 0.43). ED readmission rate was also comparable between the two groups at 5.6 and 5.8%, respectively (p = 0.86). In contrast, need for new analgesics and ED revisit rates were both more frequent in the high‐dose NSAID group. Mean VNS decreases on day 7 compared to day 0 were 66, 63, and 67%, respectively, in the paracetamol, NSAID, and paracetamol–NSAID combination groups (p = 0.32). Frequency of dissatisfaction was higher in the NSAID group. Side effects were more frequent in the NSAID and paracetamol–NSAID combination groups.

Conclusion

This study found that the combination of a high‐dose NSAID with paracetamol does not increase the analgesic effect compared to paracetamol alone. We also found that paracetamol alone is superior to high‐dose NSAID alone for posttraumatic extremity pain.
Compositional Characteristics of Proto‐Porcelain Production Sites in the Dongtiaoxi River Valley in Southeastern China
Authors: Li Z. , Zhang L.
Published: November 2020

Proto‐porcelain wares were a type of prestige goods that have been widely discovered in aristocratic tombs and urban centers in pre‐Qin China. In the recent decade, the provenance of these wares has become a fruitful research topic, for which a major production center discovered to the south of Lake Tai has presented a promising candidate. As a good number of samples from six major production sites have been analyzed, compositional characteristics of individual production sites of the center have begun to emerge. This study utilizes the existing compositional data of the bodies of these samples and subjects them to principal component analysis (PCA). It appears that the sources of raw material for these production sites vary. Although for Tingziqiao and Changshan the raw material may have been acquired from one source, for Piaoshan and Nanshan it may have been acquired from disparate sources, for Beijiashan it may have been acquired from three sources simultaneously, and for Huoshaoshan it may have been acquired from two sources over time. This study thus offers a finer picture of the compositional characteristics of the samples of the six production sites, advancing the provenance study of the proto‐porcelain wares to a new level.
Rare presentation of De Garengeot hernia treated by transabdominal preperitoneal hernia repair: A case report
Authors: Fujiwara Hisataka , Suto Takayuki , Umemura Akira , Tanahashi Yota , Amano Satoshi , Ikeda Kenichiro , Harada Kazuho , Sasaki Akira
Published: November 2020

We present a rare case of De Garengeot hernia treated with simultaneous laparoscopic appendectomy and transabdominal preperitoneal hernia repair. Our patient was an 85‐year‐old man with a bulging mass in the right groin. De Garengeot hernia was observed on contrast‐enhanced CT. Urgent laparoscopy showed the distal part of the appendix passing through a right‐sided femoral hernia. Laparoscopic appendectomy was performed, followed by transabdominal preperitoneal repair of the femoral hernia. Pathological examination revealed ischemic necrosis of the appendix. The patient's postoperative recovery was uneventful.
Perceived teacher support and students’ acceptance of mobile‐assisted language learning: Evidence from Vietnamese higher education context
Authors: Hoi Vo Ngoc , Mu Guanglun Michael
Published: November 2020

Teachers play key roles in advancing the use of mobile devices for language learning in both formal and informal settings. However, in contexts where top‐down educational policies are prevalent, the roles of teachers are usually overemphasized while learners–the end‐users of educational technologies remain largely ignored. Less understood is what roles students expect teachers to play in facilitating their acceptance of mobile‐assisted language learning. This study was conducted in an attempt to fill this gap using the extended technology acceptance model (TAM). Survey data from 293 higher education learners of English in Vietnam were analyzed by the Rasch‐based path model. Results indicated that students showed stronger desire for teachers’ orientation toward appropriate use of mobile resources for language learning both inside and outside the classroom than teachers’ demonstration of mobile‐assisted language learning activities in the classroom. The findings offer useful implications for teachers, researchers, and language education policy makers in fostering the use of mobile devices for language learning.

What is already known about this topic?

Teachers’ role in promoting learners’ adoption of mobile‐assisted language learning is under‐researched.

In contexts dominated by top‐down educational policies, the voice of learners is largely ignored.

Learners’ expectation of teachers’ roles in promoting their adoption of mobile‐assisted language learning needs more empirical evidence.

What this paper adds?

This paper highlighted the important roles of teachers in orienting students toward appropriate mobile learning resources for out‐of‐class learning.

Teachers were considered by learners as “guide on the side” rather than “sage on the stage” in enhancing their adoption of mobile‐assisted language learning.

Implications for practice/policy

Teacher training programs on mobile‐assisted language learning can be redesigned to enable teachers to better support mobile‐assisted language learning in and outside the classroom.

Teachers should be better able to enrich their knowledge of various mobile learning resources to support their students.