bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leader humility and employee organizational deviance: the role of sense of power and organizational identification
Authors: Qiuyun Guo , Liu Wenxing , Zhou Kong , Mao Jianghua
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The authors examined the relationship between leader humility and employee organizational deviance. They also tested the mediating effects of personal sense of power and the moderating effects of organizational identification on this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors tested their hypotheses using a sample of 186 employees from an information technology (IT) enterprise in China. They used hierarchical regression and bootstrapping analyses to test for direct and indirect relationships.

Findings

Sense of power mediated the effect of leader humility on organizational deviance and organizational identification moderated the effect of sense of power on organizational deviance. In addition, organizational identification mediated the indirect effect of leader humility on organizational deviance via sense of power. Thus, employees who demonstrate high organizational identification may not conduct organizational deviant behavior, even if they have a high sense of power.

Practical implications

Organizations should explore and practice effective leader humility. Selection and training programs should be developed to choose humble leaders and teach them how to exhibit moderate humility.

Originality/value

The authors contribute to the literature by revealing the negative effects of leader humility in Chinese culture. They find support for their hypotheses that employee sense of power mediates the relationship between leader humility and employee organizational deviance and that this relationship is weaker when employee organizational identification is higher. This clarifies how and why leader humility stimulates employee organizational deviance.
Reverse logistics risk management: identification, clustering and risk mitigation strategies
Authors: Panjehfouladgaran Hamidreza , Lim Stanley Frederick W.T.
Published: April 2020

Purpose

Reverse logistics (RL), an inseparable aspect of supply chain management, returns used products to recovery processes with the aim of reducing waste generation. Enterprises, however, seem reluctant to apply RL due to various types of risks which are perceived as posing an economic threat to businesses. This paper draws on a synthesis of supply chain and risk management literature to identify and cluster RL risk factors and to recommend risk mitigation strategies for reducing the negative impact of risks on RL implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors identify and cluster risk factors in RL by using risk management theory. Experts in RL and supply chain risk management validated the risk factors via a questionnaire. An unsupervised data mining method, self-organising map, is utilised to cluster RL risk factors into homogeneous categories.

Findings

A total of 41 risk factors in the context of RL were identified and clustered into three different groups: strategic, tactical and operational. Risk mitigation strategies are recommended to mitigate the RL risk factors by drawing on supply chain risk management approaches.

Originality/value

This paper studies risks in RL and recommends risk management strategies to control and mitigate risk factors to implement RL successfully.
Competition's impact on research and development real activities earnings management
Authors: Barber Russell , Hollie Dana
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is twofold: (1) to examine the incremental contribution of product market fluidity (P_THREAT), another measure of competition from that of the Herfindahl index (H_COMP) and (2) to examine how a research and development (R&D) real activities earnings management strategy to meet an earnings target is influenced by competition.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a linear probability model, we test whether P_THREAT is incremental to the H_COMP competition measure and whether it influences the likelihood of firms using abnormally low R&D real activities earnings management to meet an earnings target.

Findings

We find that P_THREAT is incrementally informative to the commonly used Herfindahl measure of competition in predicting abnormally low R&D real activities earnings management activities. This finding is consistent with the notion of examining P_THREAT because the Herfindahl index alone may be incomplete, depending on the product makeup of a company. The negative coefficient suggests that reducing discretionary spending on R&D in the short run could have a detrimental effect on long-term profits because bypassed R&D opportunities would put firms at a disadvantage with their competitors' R&D efforts. In contrast, we find that firms are more likely to use R&D activities earnings management as a mechanism to meet an earnings target when P_THREAT is high. This suggests that when high competitive pressure exists, firms are more likely to use abnormally low R&D as a mechanism to meet an earnings target.

Originality/value

We specifically focus on R&D activities earnings management because our primary competition measure, P_THREAT, captures changes in rival firms' products relative to the firm. Because R&D is primarily what drives product change, R&D is the type of real activities earnings management that is most relevant to our competition measure. Hence, this study contributes to the literature by examining how competition influences the likelihood of firms possibly engaging in R&D activities earnings management and meeting earnings targets in the presence of P_THREAT competition.
Uber’s bumpy ride in China
Authors: Singh Geeta , Dwesar Rishi , Kumar Satish
Published: April 2020

Theoretical basis

The purpose of this paper is to explore all the strategies adopted by Uber China to gain more and more market shares of Chinese markets. It included localization of its core product, adaptation to Chinese demands and tying up with different Chinese companies.

Research methodology

The case study has been prepared after thoroughly studying Uber’s business in China. Secondary data is collected from credible sources such as the Uber website, newspapers, interviews and journal publications. This data helped in arriving at a basic understanding of the company, its objectives, strategies and the business model. The strategies formulated by Uber and the challenges it faced while operating in China are studied and explained based on this secondary data. Various published papers, reports released by reputed organizations and universities, interviews of managers and experts and research papers were also used to develop this case.

Case overview/synopsis

This case is developed considering the bent of today’s consumers toward sharing economy. The scope of businesses based on the concept of sharing economy is very wide and is increasing. China’s sharing economy sector was one of the fastest economies in the world. The case chronicles ride of Uber in China: from its entry in the country, strategies adopted, challenges faced and to the exit from China.

Complexity academic level

International business management at the undergraduate and postgraduate programs in management
Chinese cruise customers loyalty: the impact of customer participation and service personal values
Authors: Wu Hui , Lv Xiaoxiao , Cavusoglu Muhittin , Cobanoglu Cihan
Published: April 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to further explore the effects of customer participation (CP) and service personal values (SPVs) on cruise customer satisfaction (CS) and customer loyalty (CL) by applying the empirical research approach.

Design/methodology/approach

A self-administered questionnaire was prepared and used to collect data. Exploratory factor analysis and structural equation modeling analysis was used to test the proposed model and hypotheses.

Findings

The empirical results indicate that CP positively influences SPVs, CS and CL. SPVs have a significant and positive impact on CS as well. Moreover, the study also finds that collectivism has a strong positive effect on CP. Price sensitivity negatively moderates the relationship among CP, CPV, CS and CL.

Research limitations/implications

The generalizability of the current study findings should be considered or scrutinized in light of the fact that limited samples and cross-sectional data were used. This limitation positions the findings as a continuation of the developing path toward a better understanding of customer behavior rather than a definitive conclusion.

Practical implications

The study results show that CP has a positive direct effect on SPVs, CS and CL. Even though many researchers have verified the importance and function of CP, there is a lack of literature, which assesses the influence of CP in a cruise industry context. By focusing on this gap, this research makes it feasible to empirically analyze the different effects of CP in relation to SPVs, CS and CL in Chinese cruise preferences.

Social implications

The study results suggest that CP is a new predictor of CS and CL in the cruise industry. Thus, creating a positive experience through participation is crucial. As customers are co-producers, it is beneficial for the cruise companies to raise labor productivity and reduce cost by guiding and stimulating them to take part in the service-producing process.

Originality/value

Based on the perspective of service-dominant logic, the purpose of this study is to shed light on the formation process of loyalty behavior of Chinese cruise tourists. The empirical results indicate that CP positively influences SPVs, CS and CL. SPVs have a significant and positive impact on CS as well. Moreover, the study also finds that collectivism has a strong positive effect on CP. Price sensitivity negatively moderates the relationship among CP, CPV, CS and CL.
The Importance of Corporate Social Responsibility Strategic Fit and Times of Economic Hardship
Authors: Apaydin Marina , Jiang Guoliang Frank , Demirbag Mehmet , Jamali Dima
Published: April 2020

Previous research investigating the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and corporate financial performance (CFP) reveals the importance of industry specificity. Drawing on strategic stakeholder theory, we argue that the strategic fit between CSR activities and value chain activities contributes to industry‐specific effects in the CSR–CFP relationship. Given the multidimensional nature of CSR, some CSR activities will be more impactful for certain industries than others, because industries differ in value chain activities and salient stakeholders. Specifically, we propose and test a set of hypotheses for two industries positioned on the different ends of the industry spectrum based on their ecological footprint – healthcare and resource extraction. We further examine the industry specificity of the CSR–CFP relationship by exploring external economic conditions (the 2008–2009 recession) as a boundary condition. Our study contributes to the extant literature by demonstrating the role of strategic fit between CSR and value chain activities in explaining the influence of CSR on CFP. Additional testing of this mechanism in times of economic hardship adds a unique aspect to our theoretical and empirical contributions.
The effect of Medicaid expansion on prescriptions for breast cancer hormonal therapy medications
Authors: Maclean Johanna Catherine , Halpern Michael T. , Hill Steven C. , Pesko Michael F.
Published: April 2020

Objective

To quantify the effects of the Affordable Care Act Medicaid expansion on prescriptions for effective breast cancer hormonal therapies (tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors) among Medicaid enrollees.

Data Source/Study Setting

Medicaid State Drug Utilization Database (SDUD) 2011‐2018, comprising the universe of outpatient prescription medications covered under the Medicaid program.

Study Design

Differences‐in‐differences and event‐study linear models compare population rates of tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitor (anastrozole, exemestane, and letrozole) use in expansion and nonexpansion states, controlling for population characteristics, state, and time.

Principal Findings

Relative to nonexpansion states, Medicaid‐financed hormonal therapy prescriptions increased by 27.2 per 100 000 nonelderly women in a state. This implies a 28.8 percent increase from the pre‐expansion mean of 94.2 per 100 000 nonelderly women in expansion states. The event‐study model reveals no evidence of differential pretrends in expansion and nonexpansion states and suggests use grew to 40 or more prescriptions per 100 000 nonelderly women 3‐5 years postexpansion.

Conclusions

Medicaid expansion may have had a meaningful impact on the ability of lower‐income women to access effective hormonal therapies used to treat breast cancer.
COVID‐19 and spinal cord injuries: The viewpoint from an emergency department resident with quadriplegia
Authors: Palipana Dinesh
Published: April 2020

Spinal cord injuries (SCIs) present distinct physiological and social considerations for the emergency physician. During the COVID‐19 pandemic, these considerations may generate unique challenges for emergency physicians managing patients with SCIs. Physiological disruptions may alter the way SCI patients present with COVID‐19. The same disruptions can affect management of this vulnerable patient group, perhaps warranting early aggressive treatment. The medical picture will often be complicated by unique social characteristics. The reliance on caregivers for activities of daily living can, as an example, increase the human resource requirement of an ED. Considering the vulnerabilities and complexities of patients with SCI, the community should prioritise prevention of COVID‐19 infections in this group. In the event that they do present to an ED, planning for and understanding their complexities will facilitate optimal management.
Subtle bacterioplankton community responses to elevated CO2 and warming in the oligotrophic South Pacific gyre
Authors: Allen Ro , Hoffmann Linn J. , Law Cliff S. , Summerfield Tina C.
Published: April 2020

Bacterioplankton play a critical role in primary production, carbon cycling, and nutrient cycling in the oligotrophic ocean. To investigate the effect of elevated CO2 and warming on the composition and function of bacterioplankton communities in oligotrophic waters, we performed two trace‐metal clean deck board incubation experiments during the New Zealand GEOTRACES transect of the South Pacific gyre (SPG). High‐throughput amplicon sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene revealed that bacterioplankton community composition was distinct between the fringe and ultra‐oligotrophic centre of the SPG and changed consistently in response to elevated CO2 at the ultra‐oligotrophic centre but not at the mesotrophic fringe of the SPG. The combined effects of elevated CO2 and warming resulted in a high degree of heterogeneity between replicate communities. Community‐level protein synthesis rates (3H‐Leucine incorporation) and bacterioplankton abundance were not affected by elevated CO2 alone or in combination with warming at the fringe or ultra‐oligotrophic centre of the SPG. These data suggest bacterioplankton community responses to elevated CO2 may be modulated by nutrient regimes in open ocean ecosystems and highlight the need for further investigation in expanding oligotrophic subtropical gyres.
A novel alphaproteobacterium with a small genome identified from the digestive gland of multiple species of abalone
Authors: Huang Zhaobin , Petersen Jillian M. , Martijn Joran , Ettema Thijs J. G. , Shao Zongze
Published: April 2020

We identified an alphaproteobacterium in the digestive gland of the abalone species Haliotis discus hannai. This phylotype dominated our 16S rRNA clone libraries from the digestive gland of H. discus hannai. Diversity surveys revealed that this phylotype was associated with H. discus hannai and also in another host species, H. gigantea. Whole genome phylogenies placed this bacterium as a new member affiliated with the family Rhodospirillaceae in Alphaproteobacteria. Gene annotation revealed a nearly complete glycolysis pathway but no TCA cycle, but the presence of anaerobic ribonucleoside‐triphosphate reductase and oxygen‐insensitive NAD(P)H‐dependent nitroreductase, which show the genomic potential for anaerobic metabolism. A large cluster of genes encoding ankyrin repeat proteins (ANK) of eukaryotic‐like repeat domains and a large gene set for the flagellar system were also detected. Alginate‐binding periplasmic proteins and key genes responsible for alginate assimilation were found in the genome, which could potentially contribute to the breakdown of the host's alginate‐rich macroalgal diet. These results raise the possibility that this novel alphaproteobacterium is a widespread member of the abalone microbiome that may use polysaccharides derived from its host's macroalgal diet.
Agrarian Policy Changes and the Evolution of Land Tenure in Cuba
Authors: González‐Corzo Mario A.
Published: April 2020

The agrarian policy changes introduced in Cuba since 2007 have resulted in notable changes in land tenure. This has contributed to a shift to annual crops, substantial reductions in idle land and the partial (but still insufficient) recovery of non‐sugar agricultural output and yields. Despite these limited advances, the long‐term growth and development of Cuban agriculture requires more profound structural reforms. The experiences of China and Vietnam suggest that the (further) expansion of land tenure and property rights should be a logical first step to achieve this goal.
Mixing genetically differentiated populations successfully boosts diversity of an endangered carnivore
Authors: McLennan E. A. , Grueber C. E. , Wise P. , Belov K. , Hogg C. J.
Published: April 2020

Biodiversity decline and genetic erosion are among the most challenging conservation issues. Genetic admixture, the mixing of two or more genetically differentiated populations, can increase genetic diversity of admixed individuals. However, genetic admixture for conservation purposes is rare due to concerns over outbreeding depression, loss of local adaptations and scepticism regarding the benefits of mixing populations. We used an introduced population of Tasmanian devils Sarcophilus harrisii descended from two genetically differentiated source populations to illustrate the benefits of genetic admixture for translocation programmes. Devils are endangered due to an infectious cancer causing 80% population declines across their range since disease emergence in 1996. Devil populations are known to be structured on an east‐west cline across Tasmania. As part of their conservation management, devils were introduced to Maria Island, Tasmania in an assisted colonization in 2012 with supplementations in 2013 and 2017. Of the released individuals (N = 34), 23 were western (13M; 10F), four were eastern (4F) and seven were of mixed origin (2M; 5F). The genetic composition of devils born on Maria Island (N = 185) was examined using 927 single nucleotide polymorphism loci. Using a reconstructed pedigree for each individual, we examined the proportion of founding origin (east, west or mixed) and used Shannon’s Diversity Index to quantify the evenness of founder origin. Individuals with mixed origins (N = 102) had higher genetic diversity than purebred individuals (N = 83), and increased evenness of founder origin was positively correlated with genetic diversity. Increased genetic diversity had no influence on reproductive success. For a genetically depauperate species, mixing individuals descended from differentiated populations, resulted in increased diversity in subsequent generations. This finding permits conservation managers to select individuals for translocation that produce offspring with higher genetic diversity, creating high‐diversity source populations that can be used when augmenting other declining wild populations.
Access to markets, weather risk, and livestock production decisions: Evidence from Ethiopia
Authors: Abay Kibrom A. , Jensen Nathaniel D.
Published: April 2020

Despite several studies showing the effect of access to markets and weather conditions on crop production, we know quite little on whether and how livestock production systems respond to variation in weather risk and access to markets. In this paper, we study whether and how livestock production responds to (access to) markets and varying weather risk. We also explore whether such responses vary across livelihood zones and livestock production systems. We study these research questions using households’ livestock production, ownership, and marketing decisions of households in Ethiopia. We find that households living close to markets are more likely to engage in market‐oriented livestock production and use modern livestock inputs. We also find that households exposed to more unpredictable weather are less likely to engage in livestock production for markets, rather they are more likely to engage in livestock production for precautionary savings and insurance. Furthermore, greater rainfall uncertainty influences livestock portfolio allocation toward those which can be easily liquidated while also discouraging investment in modern livestock inputs. However, these responses and patterns vary across livelihood zones and production systems; most of these stylized responses and impacts are more pronounced and significant in the arid and semi‐arid lands of Ethiopia, where livestock herding remains a dominant source of livelihood. Those households relying only on livestock production seem more sensitive and responsive to weather risk and weather shocks. The heterogeneity in responses and impacts of weather risk among farming systems and livelihoods highlights the need for more tailored livestock sector policies and interventions.
Recommendations to improve the clinical adoption of NGS‐based cancer diagnostics in Singapore
Authors: Tan David Shao‐Peng , Tan Daniel Shao‐Weng , Tan Iain Bee Huat , Yan Benedict , Choo Su Pin , Chng Wee Joo , Hwang William Ying Khee
Published: April 2020

Next‐generation sequencing (NGS)‐based diagnostics have demonstrated clinical utility in predicting improved survival benefits with targeted treatment in certain cancer types, and positive cost–benefit in several healthcare systems. However, clinical adoption in Singapore remains low despite commercial availability of these diagnostics. This expert opinion review examines the key challenges to the clinical adoption of NGS‐based diagnostics in Singapore, provides recommendations on impactful initiatives to improve adoption, and also offers practical guidance on specific cancer types in which NGS‐based diagnostics are appropriate for use in Singapore. Limited patient affordability is one major challenge to clinical adoption of NGS‐based diagnostics, which could be improved by enabling patient access to more funds for specific cancer types with clear benefits. Expert opinion based on current evidence and clinical experience supports the upfront use of hotspot panels in advanced non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), metastatic colorectal cancer, advanced and recurrent ovarian cancer, and acute myeloid leukemia. Comprehensive genomic profiling could be considered for upfront use in select patients with NSCLC and ovarian cancer, or in refractory patients with the four cancer types. Wider adoption of NGS‐based diagnostics will improve the delivery of cancer care in Singapore and Asia‐Pacific, and thus lead to better patient outcomes.
Serotonin homeostasis in the materno‐foetal interface at term: Role of transporters (SERT/SLC6A4 and OCT3/SLC22A3) and monoamine oxidase A (MAO‐A) in uptake and degradation of serotonin by human and rat term placenta
Authors: Karahoda Rona , Horackova Hana , Kastner Petr , Matthios Andreas , Cerveny Lukas , Kucera Radim , Kacerovsky Marian , Duintjer Tebbens Jurjen , Bonnin Alexandre , Abad Cilia , Staud Frantisek
Published: April 2020

Aim

Serotonin is crucial for proper foetal development, and the placenta has been described as a ‘donor’ of serotonin for the embryo/foetus. However, in later stages of gestation the foetus produces its own serotonin from maternally‐derived tryptophan and placental supply is no longer needed. We propose a novel model of serotonin homeostasis in the term placenta with special focus on the protective role of organic cation transporter 3 (OCT3/SLC22A3).

Methods

Dually perfused rat term placenta was employed to quantify serotonin/tryptophan transport and metabolism. Placental membrane vesicles isolated from human term placenta were used to characterize serotonin transporters on both sides of the syncytiotrophoblast.

Results

We obtained the first evidence that serotonin is massively taken up from the foetal circulation by OCT3. This uptake is concentration‐dependent and inhibitable by OCT3 blockers of endogenous (glucocorticoids) or exogenous (pharmaceuticals) origin. Population analyses in rat placenta revealed that foetal sex influences placental extraction of serotonin from foetal circulation. Negligible foetal serotonin levels were detected in maternal‐to‐foetal serotonin/tryptophan transport and metabolic studies.

Conclusion

We demonstrate that OCT3, localized on the foetus‐facing membrane of syncytiotrophoblast, is an essential component of foeto‐placental homeostasis of serotonin. Together with serotonin degrading enzyme, monoamine oxidase‐A, this offers a protective mechanism against local vasoconstriction effects of serotonin in the placenta. However, this system may be compromised by OCT3 inhibitory molecules, such as glucocorticoids or antidepressants. Our findings open new avenues to explore previously unsuspected/unexplained complications during pregnancy including prenatal glucocorticoid excess and pharmacotherapeutic risks of treating pregnant women with OCT3 inhibitors.
Overall safety of relamorelin in adults with diabetic gastroparesis: Analysis of phase 2a and 2b trial data
Authors: Camilleri Michael , Lembo Anthony , McCallum Richard , Tourkodimitris Stavros , Kemps Lara , Miller Matthew B. , Bertelsen Kirk , Iacob Alexandru
Published: April 2020

Background

Relamorelin, a pentapeptide ghrelin receptor agonist, accelerated gastric emptying significantly and improved symptoms in adults with diabetic gastroparesis in phase 2 trials.

Aim

To assess the safety and tolerability of relamorelin across phase 2 trials.

Methods

Safety assessments in patients aged 18‐75 years (weight, adverse events [AEs] and laboratory tests) from two randomised, double‐blind phase 2 trials (NCT01571297, NCT02357420; results published previously) were reviewed descriptively. Analysis of covariance assessed treatment effect on glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and blood glucose post hoc. Phase 2a and 2b trial durations were, respectively, 4 weeks (relamorelin 10 µg once or twice daily [b.d.] or placebo b.d.) and 12 weeks (relamorelin 10, 30 or 100 µg or placebo b.d.) with 1‐ and 2‐week, single‐blind placebo run‐ins.

Results

Among 204 phase 2a and 393 phase 2b patients, respectively, 67% and 62% were female, and 88% and 89% had type 2 diabetes. Proportions of patients reporting serious AEs were similar across treatment groups, as were those with ≥1 treatment‐emergent AE (TEAE). TEAE‐related discontinuations were proportionally higher in relamorelin groups than placebo. Of 12 serious TEAEs in phase 2a, none occurred in >1 patient. In phase 2b, five serious TEAEs were reported in >1 patient, and one (100 µg) died (urosepsis), all unrelated to relamorelin. In phase 2b, increased HbA1c and fasting blood glucose levels were dose‐related (P < 0.0001 and P = 0.0043, respectively).

Conclusions

Relamorelin showed acceptable safety and tolerability in phase 2 trials. Relamorelin may elevate blood glucose: this should be managed proactively in relamorelin‐treated patients.
Abnormal prefrontal cortex processing of reward prediction errors in recently diagnosed patients with bipolar disorder and their unaffected relatives
Authors: Macoveanu Julian , Kjærstad Hanne L. , Chase Henry W. , Frangou Sophia , Knudsen Gitte M. , Vinberg Maj , Kessing Lars V. , Miskowiak Kamilla W.
Published: April 2020

Objective

Bipolar disorder (BD) has been associated with abnormal reward functioning including pleasure‐seeking and impulsivity. Here we sought to clarify whether these changes can be attributed to abnormalities in the neural processing of reward valuation or error prediction. Moreover, we tested whether abnormalities in these processes are associated with familial vulnerability to BD.

Methods

We obtained functional magnetic resonance imaging data from patients with recently diagnosed BD (n = 85), their unaffected first‐degree relatives (n = 44), and healthy control participants (n = 66) while they were performing a monetary card game. We used a region‐of‐interest approach to test for group differences in the activation of the midbrain, the ventral striatum, and the prefrontal cortex during reward valuation and error prediction.

Results

Patients with BD showed decreased prediction error signal in ventrolateral prefrontal cortex and the unaffected relatives showed decreased prediction error signal in the supplementary motor area in comparison to healthy controls. There were no significant group differences in the activation of the ventral striatum during the task. In healthy controls, prediction error signal in dorsal anterior cingulate cortex correlated with an out‐of‐scanner measure of motor inhibition but this association was absent in patients and relatives.

Conclusions

The findings indicate that abnormal reward processing in BD is primarily related to deficits in the engagement of prefrontal regions involved in inhibitory control during error prediction. In contrast, deficient activation in supplementary motor cortex involved in planning of movement emerged as a familial vulnerability to BD.
Rosuvastatin use increases plasma fibrinolytic potential: a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Schol‐Gelok Suzanne , de Maat Moniek P. M. , Biedermann Joseph S. , van Gelder Teun , Leebeek Frank W. G. , Lijfering Willem M. , van der Meer Felix J. M. , Rijken Dingeman C. , Versmissen Jorie , Kruip Marieke J. H. A.
Published: April 2020

We conducted a study to assess the effect of rosuvastatin use on fibrinolysis in patients with previous venous thromboembolism (VTE). This was apost hocanalysis within the STAtins Reduce Thrombophilia (START) study (NCT01613794). Plasma fibrinolytic potential, fibrinogen, plasmin inhibitor, plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1) and thrombin‐activatable fibrinolysis inhibitor (TAFI) were measured before and after four weeks of rosuvastatin or no treatment in participants with prior confirmed VTE, after ending anticoagulant therapy. In the non‐rosuvastatin group (n = 121), plasma fibrinolytic potential and individual fibrinolysis parameters did not change at the end of the study versus the baseline, whereas in the rosuvastatin group (n = 126), plasma fibrinolytic potential increased: the mean clot lysis time decreased by 8·75 min (95% CI −13·8 to −3·72), and plasmin inhibitor levels and TAFI activity were lower at the end of the study (−0·05 U/ml; 95% CI −0·07 to −0·02 and −4·77%; 95% CI −6·81 to −2·73, respectively). PAI‐1 levels did not change and fibrinogen levels were 0·17 g/l (95% CI 0·04–0·29) higher. In participants with prior VTE, rosuvastatin use led to an increased fibrinolytic potential compared with non‐statin use. Our findings support the need for further studies on the possible role for statins in the secondary prevention of VTE.
Agouti reintroduction recovers seed dispersal of a large‐seeded tropical tree
Authors: Mittelman Pedro , Kreischer Catharina , Pires Alexandra S. , Fernandez Fernando A. S.
Published: April 2020

The aim of animal reintroductions has mainly been species recovery; only few reintroduction initiatives focus on ecosystem restoration. Therefore, reintroduction consequences on ecological interactions are seldom assessed. We used the interaction between a reintroduced population of agoutis (Dasyprocta leporina) and a vulnerable tropical endemic tree (Joannesia princeps) to examine reintroduction effects on seed dispersal and seedling establishment. To test the outcomes of this interaction, we tracked seeds of J. princeps in two adjacent forest areas with and without reintroduced agoutis. We also assessed if dispersal distances affected seedling survival. To determine seed fate and dispersal distance, we used spool‐and‐line tracking, together with camera traps to identify dispersers. Agoutis were the only species removing J. princeps seeds, thus dispersal only occurred where agoutis had been reintroduced; in the area without agoutis, all seeds remained intact on the soil, even one year after the experiment's beginning. At the reintroduction area, most seeds were preyed upon by agoutis but 7% remained dispersed and 2% germinated after ten months. Only seeds buried by agoutis were able to germinate. Most dispersed seeds were dispersed 15 m or farther and longer dispersal distances benefited J. princeps, since seedlings farther from a conspecific adult tree had greater survival probability. Agoutis were also seen burying seeds of two other plant species; these mammals have the potential to benefit dozens of large‐seeded species in our study system. Agouti reintroduction thus exemplifies the value of trophic rewilding programs to re‐establish ecological interactions and restore ecosystem functioning.

Abstract in Portuguese is available with online material
Editorial: Demand avoidance — pathological, extreme or oppositional?
Authors: Ozsivadjian Ann
Published: April 2020

Since its inception in 1980, the term PDA has generated much debate, indeed, arguably few subjects have generated such controversy in the neurodevelopmental literature. However research in the area is moving into more practical arenas, including trying to understand why some children present with problematic demand avoidant behaviour, in order to provide practical support to families. In this special edition of Child and Adolescent Mental Health, data from two studies are presented which begin to look for underlying factors contributing to an anxious need for control. Commentaries then follow, highlighting inherent nosological and methodological difficulties in investigating PDA. In this lively debate, while the controversy continues, some headway is made in terms of understanding why some young people might present with such a rigid and maladaptive response to everyday demands, including an aversion to intolerance of uncertainty leading to controlling behaviour. It will be crucial for both health and education to develop a robust evidence base to understand the driving mechanisms for demand avoidant behaviour, and develop specific strategies for managing what can be very challenging behaviours.
The effects of repeated usage of implant drills on cortical bone temperature, primary/secondary stability and bone healing: A preclinical in vivo micro‐CT study
Authors: Salimov Fariz , Ozcan Mustafa , Ucak Turer Onur , Haytac Cenk M.
Published: April 2020

Objective

The aims of the study were to evaluate the effects of new vs. used drills on cortical bone temperature, operation time, and primary/secondary stability and to assess bone healing by micro‐CT.

Materials and Methods

New, 50×‐used and 100×‐used drills at 800 rpm were used to place implants in the iliac crests of three male sheep in this experimental in vivo animal study. A total of 36 implants (12 in each group) were placed. The temperature of the cortical bone was recorded with an infrared thermometer, and the ISQ values at implant placement (primary stability) and at 4 weeks (secondary stability) were evaluated. The bone volume assessed by micro‐CT was used to evaluate bone tissue healing. The results were statistically compared.

Results

The results have shown that the operation time and the cortical bone temperature increased by the usage of the drills (p < .05) and the primary/secondary stability (ISQ values) decreased with the number of drill usage (p < .05) The highest 2‐ and 3‐dimensional bone volume (assessed by micro‐CT) were noted for new drills group followed by 50×‐used drills and 100×‐used drills (p < .05 at 4 weeks).

Conclusion

The number of drill usage seems to be directly affecting the osseointegration process in implant surgery. Therefore, replacing the drills at certain time intervals may increase the success of implant treatment.
Use of protective gloves by hairdressers: A review of efficacy and potential adverse effects
Authors: Havmose Martin , Thyssen Jacob P. , Zachariae Claus , Johansen Jeanne D.
Published: April 2020

Occupational hand eczema is common among hairdressers, and protective gloves are important in limiting exposure to irritants and allergens. Various glove types may differ in their protective ability, and their use may lead to hand eczema due to skin irritancy and allergy. MEDLINE was searched for studies investigating permeation of gloves to irritants and allergens used in the hairdressing trade, as well as adverse effects of glove use affecting hairdressers. Forty‐four studies were identified; nine reported on permeation. Of those, two in vitro studies found nitrile rubber (NR) gloves to give the best protection when handling hair dyes. Polyethylene (PE) gloves had the lowest reported break‐through time. The prevalence of sensitization to rubber materials in European hairdressers was as follows: thiuram mix, median 2.5% (range 0%‐8.2%), weighted average 3.0% (95% confidence interval [CI] 3.0%‐3.1%); mercapto mix, median 0.4% (range 0%‐3.3%), weighted average 0.5% (95% CI 0.47%‐0.50%), mercaptobenzothiazole, median 0.6% (range 0%‐6.6%), weighted average 0.7% (95% CI 0.6%‐0.7%), NRL‐type I allergy, median 1.3% (range 1%‐16.4%), weighted average 4.0% (95% CI 3.6%‐4.5%). In conclusion, NR gloves provide the best skin protection for hairdressers, although natural rubber latex (NRL) and polyvinylchloride (PVC) gloves may be sufficient in most cases. PE gloves are not recommended. Synthetic rubber gloves with low or no levels of accelerators are preferred.
Beyond Consistency: Contextual Dependency of Language Style in Monolog and Conversation
Authors: Müller‐Frommeyer Lena C. , Kauffeld Simone , Paxton Alexandra
Published: April 2020

Language is highly dynamic: It unfolds over time, and we can use it to achieve a wide variety of communicative goals, from telling a story to trying to persuade another person. One aspect of language that has gained increasing popularity among researchers in the last several decades is the individual language style (LS) represented by an individual’s use of function words (e.g., pronouns, articles). Previous approaches to LS mostly focus on LS of one individual in isolation, paying less attention to the fact that language emerges from interaction with others. The aim of this paper is twofold: First, we integrate LS into a dynamical theoretical framework and present an innovative methodological approach. Second, this paper aims to address how interactive conversation—as an aspect of the communicative setting—changes an individual’s LS. We use recurrence quantification analysis to look at structure in patterns of LS in monologs and conversations of 118 participants. Our results showed that LS significantly differs from monolog to conversation, and post hoc analyses further revealed that the change in LS is greater for conflict than for friendly conversations. The difference between monologs and conversations is reflected more strongly in the dynamics (i.e., structure and complexity) of LS than the proportion of function words used. Theoretical implications and directions for future studies are discussed.
Survival value of primary tumour resection for stage IV non–small‐cell lung cancer: A population‐based study of 6466 patients
Authors: Xu Jing , Fan Lulu , Yu Hanqing , Lu Donghui , Peng Wanren , Sun Guoping
Published: April 2020

Introduction

For stage IV non–small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients, surgical resection of primary tumour was rarely recommended.

Objectives

We conducted this population‐based study to demonstrate the survival value of primary tumour resection (PTR) for stage IV (NSCLC).

Methods

The Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database was searched for selecting stage IV NSCLC patients. The patients were matched according to age, gender, grade, primary tumour site, histopathological type, tumour size and regional lymph nodes metastasis by propensity score matching (PSM) analysis. Kaplan‐Meier curves were presented to show the survival differences between resection group and non‐resection group. Risk factors which were supposed to influence survival outcome were investigated using a Cox proportional hazard regression model. And a nomogram was performed to present prognostic factors for stage IV NSCLC patients.

Results

6466 patients diagnosed from 2004 to 2015 were included in survival analyses after PSM. The median overall survival (OS) for overall patients with resection was 27 months, much longer than those without resection (8 months). And this trend remained in subgroup analyses, including different histopathological types and distant metastases (All P values < 0.001). Younger age, race other than white and black, female, grade 1/2 (G1/G2), PTR, chemotherapy, no other distant metastases, smaller tumour size and no regional lymph node metastases were favourable prognostic factors for stage IV NSCLC. A predictive nomogram was conducted based on above risk factors.

Conclusion

PTR prolonged survival of stage IV NSCLC patients. And PTR should be considered in clinical practice for stage IV NSCLC.
Cutaneous manifestations of internal malignancy
Authors: Alter Mareike , Mengoni Miriam , Gaffal Evelyn
Published: April 2020

Skin lesions associated with internal malignancy may present as cutaneous metastases or as typical lesions occurring in the context of certain cancer‐associated genetic syndromes. Paraneoplastic syndromes, on the other hand, are only indirectly associated with an underlying malignancy and are not malignant per se. Historically, a distinction has been made between “obligate” and “facultative” paraneoplastic disorders, depending on the likelihood with which they are potentially associated with malignancy. In addition, there are nonspecific cutaneous manifestations that are only rarely associated with an underlying malignancy. Another possible classification is based on the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the cutaneous lesions. In everyday practice, it is essential that dermatologists recognize potentially cancer‐associated dermatoses, as this will frequently contribute to the initial diagnosis of an underlying neoplasm.
A contextual policy analysis of a cash programme in a humanitarian setting: the case of the Emergency Social Safety Net in Turkey
Authors: Cetinoglu Talita , Yilmaz Volkan
Published: April 2020

The Emergency Social Safety Net (ESSN) programme, which was launched in 2016, has become the central element of the humanitarian response to the plight of Syrian refugees in Turkey and an instrument of European migration control policies. This paper offers a contextual analysis of this European Union‐funded cash assistance scheme by examining the modes of interaction between its major assumptions and the broader humanitarian response in the context of Turkey. It finds that the ESSN comes with compromises on humanitarian principles and standards, amplifies the protection and assistance divide, and fails to address the realities of Turkey with respect to the country's housing and labour markets and weak protection framework. The paper concludes that a more inclusive approach to eligibility and higher transfer payments can contribute to the addressing of assistance needs provided that cash support is combined with robust protection programming and the implementation of sector‐specific projects and policies.
Treatment of transfusion‐dependent congenital dyserythropoietic anemia Type I patients with pegylated interferon alpha‐2a
Authors: Abu‐Quider Abed , Asleh Mahdi , Shalev Hanna , Fruchtman Yariv , Ben‐Harosh Meriam , Beck Guy , Kapelushnik Josef
Published: April 2020

Objective

Pegylated IFN‐α2a has been reported in two case reports as being efficacious in treating CDA‐I patients. This study aims to assess its efficacy on a series of CDA‐I patients.

Methods

Study sample consisted of seven CDA type 1 transfusion‐dependent patients. They received pegylated interferon alpha‐2a at an initial dose of 90‐180 µg once a week, tapered according to clinical response and side effects. Good response was defined as Hb ≥ 10 g/dL for ≥3 months, partial response was defined as 7 ≤ Hb<10 g/dL for ≥3 months, and no response was defined as HB < 7 g/dL for over 3 months on treatment. Time to response was defined as the time needed to achieve hemoglobin levels ≥ 10 g/dL without transfusion. Patients were evaluated periodically by abdominal ultrasounds to rule out liver adenomas.

Results

Five patients (71%) had a good response to treatment. One patient stopped treatment due to side effects. One patient had partial response. One patient, with more severe phenotype and poor compliance, had poor response to treatment. No abnormal findings were found in ultrasound examination. No effect on serum ferritin level could be established.

Conclusion

Pegylated interferon α2a therapy is efficacious in CDA‐I patients with a reasonable safety profile.
The vaso‐occlusive pain crisis in sickle cell disease: Definition, pathophysiology, and management
Authors: Darbari Deepika S. , Sheehan Vivien A. , Ballas Samir K.
Published: April 2020

Early diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of a vaso‐occlusive crisis (VOC) are critical to the management of patients with sickle cell disease. It is essential to differentiate between VOC‐associated pain and chronic pain, hyperalgesia, neuropathy, and neuropathic pain. The pathophysiology of VOCs includes polymerization of abnormal sickle hemoglobin, inflammation, and adhesion. Hydroxyurea, L‐glutamine, crizanlizumab, and voxelotor have been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for reducing the frequency of VOCs; the European Medicines Agency has approved only hydroxyurea. Other novel treatments are in late‐stage clinical development in both the United States and the European Union. The development of agents for prevention and treatment of VOCs should be driven by our understanding of its pathophysiology.