bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Responsible leadership and triple-bottom-line performance—do corporate reputation and innovation mediate this relationship?
Authors: Javed Muzhar , Ali Hafiz Yasir , Asrar-ul-Haq Muhammad , Ali Moazzam , Kirmani Syed Ali Ashiq
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Drawing on stakeholder theory and contingency theory, this study empirically investigates the relationship between responsible leadership (RL) and each dimension of triple-bottom-line (TBL) performance. Moreover, we tested the mediating effect of corporate reputation (CR) and innovation between RL and TBL performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Perceptual data were collected from 227 senior-level Pakistani managers using a questionnaire survey. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to test the direct and mediating effect hypotheses.

Findings

The results revealed that RL significantly and positively affects each dimension of TBL performance. Further, innovation mediated the relationship between RL and each dimension of TBL performance. However, CR did not mediate the relationship between RL and environmental performance.

Originality/value

This is maiden study to empirically investigate the effect of RL on meso-level outcome. Further, this study would be among the few ones to use TBL as a measure of corporate performance. Moreover, it will be the first study to test the mediating role of CR and innovation in the above-mentioned relationship and will also validate contingency theory.
Marginality and team building in collaborative crowdsourcing
Authors: Wang Rong
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Existing studies on crowdsourcing have focused on analyzing isolated contributions by individual participants and thus collaboration dynamics among them are under-investigated. The value of implementing crowdsourcing in problem solving lies in the aggregation of wisdom from a crowd. This study examines how marginality affects collaboration in crowdsourcing.

Design/methodology/approach

With population level data collected from a global crowdsourcing community (openideo.com), this study applied social network analysis and in particular bipartite exponential random graph modeling (ERGM) to examine how individual level marginality variables (measured as the degree of being located at the margin) affect the team formation in collaboration crowdsourcing.

Findings

Significant effects of marginality are attributed to collaboration skills, number of projects won, community tenure and geolocation. Marginality effects remain significant after controlling for individual level and team level attributes. However, marginality alone cannot explain collaboration dynamics. Participants with leadership experience or more winning ideas are also more likely to be selected as team members.

Originality/value

The core contribution this research makes is the conceptualization and definition of marginality as a mechanism in influencing collaborative crowdsourcing. This study conceptualizes marginality as a multidimensional concept and empirically examines its effect on team collaboration, connecting the literature on crowdsourcing to online collaboration.
Sleep disturbances in adults with frailty and sarcopenia
Authors: Chiba Reona , Ohashi Yuki , Ozaki Akiko
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Several epidemiological studies have reported an age-related increase in the prevalence of sleep disturbances. This study aims to investigate the relationship between sleep and sarcopenia/frailty in older adults and clarify issues that remain to be addressed in future studies.

Design/methodology/approach

PubMed was searched for relevant studies with the following keywords in the title: “sleep” and “sarcopenia” or “sleep” and “frailty.” A total of 15 studies published in English between 1998 and 2018 were reviewed.

Findings

Among the four studies that examined the relationship between sarcopenia and sleep, two reported that long or short sleep duration increased the risk of sarcopenia and this association was more pronounced in women than men. Among the seven studies examining the relationship between frailty and sleep, four reported that higher Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scores were associated with an increased risk of frailty.

Practical implications

Most previous studies have focused on interventions targeting a single area such as muscle strength or exercise habits, in older adults at risk for frailty. The results suggest that interventions targeting improved sleep may positively impact the maintenance of muscle strength.

Originality/value

The literature review revealed that too much or too little sleep increases the risk of sarcopenia in older adults. Further, sleep deprivation, greater night-time wakefulness and reduced sleep quality increase the risk of frailty. Interestingly, the risk of mortality is increased in individuals with daytime functional disorders such as excessive drowsiness or napping habits.
Review on sensitive and selective ethylene detection methods for fruit ripening application
Authors: Kathirvelan Jayaraman , Vijayaraghavan Rajagopalan
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This work encompasses the various laboratory-based and portable methods evolved in recent times for sensitive and selective detection of ethylene for fruit-ripening application. The role of ethylene in natural and artificial fruit ripening and the associated health hazards are well known. So there is a growing need for ethylene detection. This paper aims to highlight potential methods developed for ethylene detection by various researchers, including ours. Intense efforts by various researchers have been on since 2014 for societal benefits.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper focuses on types of sensors, fabrication methods and signal conditioning circuits for ethylene detection in ppm levels for various applications. The authors have already designed, developed a laboratory-based set-up belonging to the electrochemical and optical methods for detection of ethylene.

Findings

The authors have developed a carbon nanotube (CNT)-based chemical sensor whose performance is higher than the reported sensor in terms of material, sensitivity and response, the sensor element being multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) in comparison to single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT). Also the authors have developed infrared (IR)-based physical sensor for the first time based on the strong IR absorption of ethylene at 10.6 µm. These methods have been compared with literature based on comparable parameters. The review highlights the potential possibilities for development of portable device for field applications.

Originality/value

The authors have reported new chemical and physical sensors for ethylene detection and quantification. It is demonstrated that it could be used for fruit-ripening applications A comparison of reported methods and potential opportunities is discussed.
A Systematic Literature Review on ICT Architectures for Smart Mauritian Local Council
Authors: Gobin-Rahimbux Baby , Cadersaib Zarine , Chooramun Nitish , Gooda Sahib-Kaudeer Nuzhah , Heenaye-Mamode Khan Maleika , Cheerkoot-Jalim Sudha , Kishnah Somveer , Elaheeboccus Shabneez
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Cities have recognised information and communication technology (ICT) as a major enabler for transforming into “smarter” service providers. Mauritius is considering embarking on a smart island initiative, and as such, the existing towns in Mauritius have a major role to play in the transformation process. This study aims to focus on a systematic analysis of ICT architectures. This study proposes recommendations with regard to ICT infrastructures. This study elicits the contribution of those services towards the overall transformation of the towns, which in turn will form an integral part of the smart island initiative of the country.

Design/methodology/approach

A first step towards developing a smart ICT architecture is to understand what a smart ICT architecture constitutes of and the frameworks that can be used to develop these architectures. The main objectives of this systematic literature review (SLR) are as follows: understand what a smart ICT architecture consists of and derive a definition that will be used throughout the research for the development of ICT architecture for the smart local councils for Mauritius; analyse various frameworks, architectures and models that have been used in existing literature for the development of smart ICT architectures.

Findings

This SLR was conducted with a view to investigate ICT architectures with respect to smart governance. An in-depth review, followed by a critical analysis was performed based on the research questions set. The contribution of this study include the formulation of a definition for ICT architecture for smart local councils, which can be applied to any sphere characterised by similar aspects with reference to smart local governance. Albeit existing frameworks such as The Open Group Architecture Framework, Federal Enterprise Architecture and Zachman Framework, it was observed that in most cases, ICT architectures were built from scratch potentially because of specificities of each country/city.

Originality/value

This work proposes ICT architectures for smart local council.
Interorganizational learning: a bibliometric review and research agenda
Authors: Anand Amitabh , Brøns Kringelum Louise , Øland Madsen Charlotte , Selivanovskikh Louisa
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Scholarly interest in interorganizational learning (IOL) has spiked in the past decade because of its potential to absorb, transfer and create valuable knowledge for enhanced innovative performance and sustained competitive advantage. However, only a handful of review studies exists on the topic. The evolution of IOL has not been studied explicitly and there is a lack of understanding of the field trends. To fill this gap, this paper aims to comprehensively review the literature on IOL and map its evolution and trends using bibliometric techniques. In particular, the authors use visualization of science mapping freeware to systematize the findings and interpret the results.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors synthesize the findings using “evaluative bibliometric techniques” to identify the quality and quantity indicators of the IOL research and use “relational bibliometric techniques” to determine the structural indicators of the IOL field such as the intellectual foundations and emerging research themes of IOL research.

Findings

Through an analysis of 208 journal publications obtained from the Scopus database, the authors determine the leading authors, countries, highly cited papers and their contributions to the IOL literature. By identifying the key hotspots, intellectual foundations and emerging trends of IOL, the authors provide promising avenues in IOL research.

Originality/value

To the best of the knowledge, this study is the first to systematically review the IOL literature and provide future research directions.
Vesiduction: the fourth way of HGT
Authors: Soler Nicolas , Forterre Patrick
Published: May 2020

Besides the canonical gene transfer mechanisms transformation, transduction and conjugation, DNA transfer involving extracellular vesicles is still under appreciated. However, this widespread phenomenon has been observed in the three domains of life. Here, we propose the term ‘Vesiduction’ as a fourth mode of intercellular DNA transfer.
Exogenous maltose enhances Zebrafish immunity to levofloxacin‐resistant Vibrio alginolyticus
Authors: Jiang Ming , Yang Lifen , Chen Zhuang‐gui , Lai Shi‐shi , Zheng Jun , Peng Bo
Published: May 2020

Understanding the interplay between bacterial fitness, antibiotic resistance, host immunity and host metabolism could guide treatment and improve immunity against antibiotic‐resistant pathogens. The acquisition of levofloxacin (Lev) resistance affects the fitness of Vibrio alginolyticus in vitro and in vivo. Lev‐resistant (Lev‐R) V. alginolyticus exhibits slow growth, reduced pathogenicity and greater resistance to killing by the host, Danio rerio (zebrafish), than Lev‐sensitive (Lev‐S) V. alginolyticus, suggesting that Lev‐R V. alginolyticus triggers a weaker innate immune response in D. rerio than Lev‐S V. alginolyticus. Differences were detected in the metabolome of D. rerio infected with Lev‐S or Lev‐R V. alginolyticus. Maltose, a crucial metabolite, is significantly downregulated in D. rerio infected with Lev‐R V. alginolyticus, and exogenous maltose enhances the immune response of D. rerio to Lev‐R V. alginolyticus, leading to better clearance of the infection. Furthermore, we demonstrate that exogenous maltose stimulates the host production of lysozyme and its binding to Lev‐R V. alginolyticus, which depends on bacterial membrane potential. We suggest that exogenous exposure to crucial metabolites could be an effective strategy for treating and/or managing infections with antibiotic‐resistant bacteria.
Treatment patterns among patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma: An Italian, population‐based nationwide study
Authors: Trama Annalisa , Proto Claudia , Signorelli Diego , Garassino Marina C. , Lo Russo Giuseppe , Ganzinelli Monica , Prelaj Arsela , Mensi Carolina , Gangemi Manuela , Gennaro Valerio , Chellini Elisabetta , Caldarella Adele , Angelillo Italo F. , Ascoli Valeria , Pascucci Cristiana , Tagliabue Giovanna , Cusimano Rosanna , Bella Francesca , Falcini Fabio , Merler Enzo , Masanotti Giuseppe , Ziino Antonio , Michiara Maria , Gola Gemma , Storchi Cinzia , Mangone Lucia , Vitale Maria F. , Cirilli Claudia , Tumino Rosario , Scuderi Tiziana , Fanetti Anna C. , Piffer Silvano , Tiseo Marcello , Gatta Gemma , Botta Laura ,   the LUME study WG
Published: May 2020

Background

Malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) is a rare cancer with a poor prognosis. Centralization of rare cancer in dedicated centers is recommended to ensure expertise, multidisciplinarity and access to innovation. In Italy, expert centers for MPM have not been identified in all regions. We aimed to describe the treatment patterns among MPM patients across different Italian regions and to identify factors associated with the treatment patterns across the regions.

Methods

We performed an observational study on a random sample of 2026 MPM patients diagnosed in 2003–2008. We included 26 population‐based registries covering 70% of the Italian population. To identify factors associated with treatment patterns, across the different regions, we fitted a multinomial logistic regression model adjusted by age, sex, stage, histology and hospital with thoracic surgical department.

Results

MPM patients mostly received chemotherapy alone (41%) or no cancer‐directed therapy (36%) especially the older patients. The first course of treatment for MPM patients differed across regions. Patients from Piedmont, Liguria and Campania were more likely to receive no cancer‐directed therapy; those living in Tuscany and Sicily were more likely to get surgery; patients from Marche and Lazio were more likely to receive chemotherapy. These differences were not explained by age, sex, stage, histology and availability of a thoracic surgery department.

Conclusions

There is limited expertise available and lack of a network able to maximize the expertise available may contribute to explaining the results of our study. Our findings support the need to ensure the appropriate care of all MPM patients in reorganizing the health care services.

Key points

Significant findings of the study:

MPM patients mostly received chemotherapy alone or no cancer‐directed therapy especially the older patients. The first course of treatment for MPM patients differed across Italian regions.

What this study adds:

Differences in MPM clinical management are not explained by the age, stage, histology nor by the availability of a thoracic surgery department. Limited expertise for MPM contribute to explaining the unequal access to appropriate care for MPM patients in Italy.
microRNA‐100 functions as a tumor suppressor in non‐small cell lung cancer via regulating epithelial‐mesenchymal transition and Wnt/β‐catenin by targeting HOXA1
Authors: Han Weizhong , Ren Xiaoxia , Yang Yupeng , Li Haixia , Zhao Lin , Lin Zhaoxia
Published: May 2020

Background

Non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a leading subtype in lung cancer, with high morbidities and mortalities worldwide. microRNA (miRNA) has appeared to play indispensable roles in a variety of solid carcinomas. The current study focused on the functions of miR‐100 in NSCLC.

Methods

qRT‐PCR was performed to detect miR‐100 and HOXA1 expressions in NSCLC tissues and cells. MTT and transwell assays were used to determine the functions of miR‐100 in NSCLC cell proliferation, invasion and migration abilities. Western blot was used to measure related protein expressions.

Results

qRT‐PCR results showed that miR‐100 expressions were dramatically decreased in NSCLC tissues. MTT assays indicated that miR‐100 restoration inhibited NSCLC cell proliferation. Furthermore, transwell assay was performed to determine the impacts of miR‐100 on NSCLC invasion and migration abilities. As expected, the invasion and migration capacities were significantly repressed. Direct interactions between HOXA1 and miR‐100 were also verified via dual‐luciferase reporter assays. Western blot analysis demonstrated that miR‐100 exerted suppressive functions via regulating EMT and Wnt/β‐catenin in NSCLC cells.

Conclusions

Our results showed that miR‐100 served antitumor roles in NSCLC, providing new evidence of miR‐100 as a promising therapeutic biomarker in NSCLC.
Maternal host responses to poly(I:C) during pregnancy leads to both dysfunctional immune profiles and altered behaviour in the offspring
Authors: Garcia‐Valtanen Pablo , van Diermen Bianca A. , Lakhan Nerissa , Lousberg Erin L. , Robertson Sarah A. , Hayball John D. , Diener Kerrilyn R.
Published: May 2020

Problem

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)‐like phenotypes in murine models are linked to elevated pro‐inflammatory cytokine profiles caused by maternal immune activation (MIA), but whether MIA alters the immune response in the offspring remains unclear.

Method of study

Polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (poly:[IC]) was used to induce MIA in immunocompetent and control TLR3‐deficient pregnant mice, and cytokine levels were measured in maternal and foetal organs. Furthermore, cytokines and behaviour responses were tested after challenge with lipopolysaccharide in 7‐day‐old and adult mice.

Results

MIA induced on E12 resulted in changes in the cytokine expression profile in maternal and foetal organs and correlated with TNFα and IL‐18 dysregulation in immune organs and brains from neonatal mice born to MIA‐induced dams. Such changes further correlated with altered behavioural responses in adulthood.

Conclusion

MIA induced by pathogens during pregnancy can interfere with the development of the foetal immune and nervous systems leading to dysfunctional immune responses and behaviour in offspring.
In vivo evaluation of Vivere bovine pericardium valvular bioprosthesis with a new anti‐calcifying treatment
Authors: Braile‐Sternieri Maria C. V. B. , Goissis Gilberto , Giglioti Aparecida de F. , Ramirez Vladimir D. A. , Pereira Nathalia P. , de Vasconcellos Adriano , Basso‐Frazzato Glaucia G. , Braile Domingo Marcolino
Published: May 2020

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of chemical treatment with glutamic acid to avoid calcification of biological cardiac valves. The bovine pericardium (BP) tissues were fixed with 0.5% glutaraldehyde (BP/GA), followed by treatment with glutamic acid (BP/GA + Glu) for neutralization of the free aldehyde groups. Microscopic analysis showed that the wavy structure of collagen fibrils was preserved, but changes in elastin's integrity occurred. However, the treatment did not promote undesirable changes in the thermal and mechanical properties of the modified BPs. These samples were systematically studied in rat subcutaneous tissue: control (BP/GA) and anticalcificant (BP/GA + Glu). After 60 days, both groups induced similar inflammatory reactions. In terms of calcification, BP/GA + Glu remained more stable with a lower index (3.1 ± 0.2 μg Ca2+/mg dry tissue), whereas for BP/GA it was 5.7 ± 1.3 μg Ca2+/mg dry tissue. Bioprostheses made from BP/GA + Glu were implanted in the pulmonary position in sheep, and in vivo echocardiographic analyses revealed maintenance of valvar function after 180 days, with low gradients and minimal valve insufficiency. The explanted tissues of the BP/GA + Glu group had a lower average calcium content 3.8 ± 3.0 μg Ca2+/mg dry tissue. The results indicated high anticalcification efficiency of BP/GA + Glu in both subcutaneous implant in rats and in the experimental sheep model, which is an advantage that should encourage the industrial application of these materials for the manufacture of bioprostheses.
Contribution of oxygen extraction fraction to maximal oxygen uptake in healthy young men
Authors: Skattebo Øyvind , Calbet Jose A. L. , Rud Bjarne , Capelli Carlo , Hallén Jostein
Published: May 2020

We analysed the importance of systemic and peripheral arteriovenous O2difference (difference and a‐vfO2difference, respectively) and O2extraction fraction for maximal oxygen uptake (). Fick law of diffusion and the Piiper and Scheid model were applied to investigate whether diffusion versus perfusion limitations vary with. Articles (n = 17) publishing individual data (n = 154) on, maximal cardiac output (; indicator‐dilution or the Fick method),difference (catheters or the Fick equation) and systemic O2extraction fraction were identified. For the peripheral responses, group‐mean data (articles:n = 27; subjects:n = 234) on leg blood flow (LBF; thermodilution), a‐vfO2difference and O2extraction fraction (arterial and femoral venous catheters) were obtained.and two‐LBF increased linearly by 4.9‐6.0 L·min–1per 1 L·min–1increase in(R2 = .73 andR2 = .67, respectively; bothP < .001). Thedifference increased from 118‐168 mL·L–1from aof 2‐4.5 L·min–1followed by a reduction (second‐order polynomial:R2 = .27). After accounting for a hypoxemia‐induced decrease in arterial O2content with increasing(R2 = .17;P < .001), systemic O2extraction fraction increased up to ~90% (: 4.5 L·min–1) with no further change (exponential decay model:R2 = .42). Likewise, leg O2extraction fraction increased withto approach a maximal value of ~90‐95% (R2 = .83). Muscle O2diffusing capacity and the equilibration indexYincreased linearly with(R2 = .77 andR2 = .31, respectively; bothP < .01), reflecting decreasing O2diffusional limitations and accentuating O2delivery limitations. In conclusion, although O2delivery is the main limiting factor to, enhanced O2extraction fraction (≥90%) contributes to the remarkably highin endurance‐trained individuals.
Profiles of serum soluble programmed death‐1 and programmed death‐ligand 1 levels in chronic hepatitis B virus‐infected patients with different disease phases and after anti‐viral treatment
Authors: Xia Juan , Huang Rui , Chen Yuxin , Liu Yong , Wang Jian , Yan Xiaomin , Zhang Zhaoping , Wu Chao
Published: May 2020

Background

Soluble programmed death‐1 (sPD‐1) and soluble programmed death‐ligand 1 (sPD‐L1) play a role in immune regulation of chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection.

Aim

To investigate the profiles of serum sPD‐1 and sPD‐L1 in chronic HBV‐infected patients with different disease phases and after anti‐viral treatment.

Methods

A total of 99 chronic HBV‐infected patients were enrolled and divided into HBeAg‐positive chronic HBV infection (EPI) group, HBeAg‐positive chronic hepatitis B (EPH) group, HBeAg‐negative chronic hepatitis B (ENH) group and HBeAg‐negative chronic HBV infection (ENI) group. Eleven healthy subjects were included as healthy controls (HCs). Thirty‐two EPH patients received anti‐viral treatment with nucleos(t)ide analogues and were followed up to 5 years. Serum sPD‐1 and sPD‐L1 levels were detected by Multiplex Immunoassays.

Results

Serum sPD‐1 and sPD‐L1 levels of chronic HBV infected patients were significantly higher than that of HCs (P < 0.01). Patients in EPH, ENH and EPI groups had higher serum sPD‐1 and sPD‐L1 levels than that in HCs (P < 0.01). After anti‐viral treatment, serum sPD‐1 and sPD‐L1 levels declined rapidly. EPH patients with HBeAg clearance after 2 years of anti‐viral treatment showed lower baseline HBeAg and sPD‐1 levels compared to those without HBeAg clearance.

Conclusions

Serum sPD‐1 and sPD‐L1 levels varied among chronic HBV infected patients with different disease phases. Lower baseline sPD‐1 levels were associated with HBeAg clearance after 2 years of anti‐viral treatment in EPH patients.
Population pharmacokinetics of adalimumab biosimilar adalimumab‐adbm and reference product in healthy subjects and patients with rheumatoid arthritis to assess pharmacokinetic similarity
Authors: Kang Jia , Eudy‐Byrne Rena J. , Mondick John , Knebel William , Jayadeva Girish , Liesenfeld Karl‐Heinz
Published: May 2020

Aims

Adalimumab‐adbm is a monoclonal antibody developed as a biosimilar to adalimumab (Humira, AbbVie Inc.). The key objectives of this study were using a population pharmacokinetic (PPK) approach to assess pharmacokinetic (PK) similarity between adalimumab‐adbm and Humira in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis (RA), to quantify the effects of potential covariates on adalimumab PK and to assess the impact of switching treatment from Humira to adalimumab‐adbm on PK.

Methods

A PPK model was firstly developed using intensive PK data from the phase‐1 study in healthy subjects (NCT02045979). PPK models were developed separately for phase‐3 base study (NCT02137226) and its extension study (NCT02640612) in patients with active RA.

Results

PPK models were developed for adalimumab from adalimumab‐adbm and Humira treatment in healthy subjects and RA patients. Weight and anti‐drug antibodies were found to be important predictors of adalimumab clearance. Adalimumab PK was similar between adalimumab‐adbm and Humira. The estimated effect of Humira on clearance, relative to the adalimumab‐adbm, was 1.02 (i.e., Humira has 0.02 greater clearance). Similarly, the effect of treatment arms (switching) on clearance was estimated to be 1.00 and 0.997 for Humira:Humira:BI and Humira:BI:BI arms, respectively, relative to the BI:BI:BI arm (BI refers to adalimumab‐adbm) in the phase‐3 extension study.

Conclusion

PK similarity between adalimumab‐adbm and Humira in patients with active RA was demonstrated using PPK approach. Adalimumab PK was also similar when switching treatment from Humira to adalimumab‐adbm at either week 24 or 48.
Clinical and neuroendocrine correlates of childhood maltreatment history in adults with bipolar disorder
Authors: Monteleone Alessio Maria , Cascino Giammarco , Marciello Francesca , D’Agostino Giulia , Caivano Vito , Monteleone Palmiero , Maj Mario
Published: May 2020

Objectives

Childhood maltreatment has been associated to an increased risk of developing bipolar disorder (BD). A role of the hypothalamus‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) axis in mediating trauma‐related risk for adult psychopathology has been suggested but scarcely investigated in BD. Therefore, we explored the impact of childhood maltreatment on clinical features of BD and on the activity of the HPA axis.

Methods

One hundred and six patients participated in the study. On the basis of their history of childhood trauma, as assessed by the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ), they were divided into a group with a history of childhood maltreatment (CM+) and a group without (CM−). Twenty‐nine participants (16 with a history of childhood trauma and 13 without) underwent the cortisol awakening response (CAR) test.

Results

Sixty‐two patients had a history of childhood maltreatment and 44 had not. Maltreatment was significantly more frequent in females than males. CM+ patients showed a significant higher body mass index, a significant higher number of suicide attempts, and more severe mania symptoms than CM− ones. Logistic regression indicated a significant association between lifetime suicide attempts and any type of childhood maltreatment and between emotional abuse and the presence of psychotic symptoms or mixed mood episodes. CM+ individuals with BD exhibited a significantly reduced CAR with respect to CM− ones.

Discussion

Our results add to literature findings showing a worse clinical course in BD patients with a history of childhood maltreatments and show for the first time that childhood trauma exposure is associated to an impaired CAR in adults with BD.
Testing polymineral post‐IR IRSLand quartzSAR‐OSLprotocols on Middle to Late Pleistocene loess at Batajnica, Serbia
Authors: Avram Anca , Constantin Daniela , Veres Daniel , Kelemen Szabolcs , Obreht Igor , Hambach Ulrich , Marković Slobodan B. , Timar‐Gabor Alida
Published: May 2020

The loess–palaeosol sequence of Batajnica (Vojvodina region, Serbia) is considered as one of the most complete and thickest terrestrial palaeoclimate archives for the Middle and Late Pleistocene. In order to achieve a numerical chronology for this profile, four sets of ages were obtained on 18 individual samples. Equivalent doses were determined using theSARprotocol on fine (4–11 μm) and coarse (63–90 μm) quartz fractions, as well as on polymineral fine grains by using two elevated temperature infrared stimulation methods,pIRIR290andpIRIR225. We show that the upper age limit of coarse quartzOSLand polymineralpIRIR290andpIRIR225techniques is restricted to the Last Glacial/Interglacial cycle due to the field saturation of the natural signals. Luminescence ages on coarse quartz,pIRIR225andpIRIR290polymineral fine grains are in general agreement. Fine quartz ages are systematically lower than the coarse quartz andpIRIRages, the degree of underestimation increasing with age. Comparison between natural and laboratory dose response curves indicate the age range over which each protocol provides reliable ages. For fine and coarse quartz, the natural and laboratory dose response curves overlap up to ~150 and ~250 Gy, respectively, suggesting that theSARprotocol provides reliable ages up toc. 50 ka on fine quartz andc. 100 ka on coarse quartz. Using thepIRIR225andpIRIR290protocols, equivalent doses up to ~400 Gy can be determined, beyond which in the case of the former the natural dose response curve slightly overestimates the laboratory dose response curve. Our results suggest that the choice of the mineral and luminescence technique to be used for dating loess sediments should take into consideration the reported limited reliability.
CHINA AND WORLD OUTPUT IMPACT OF THE HUBEI LOCKDOWN DURING THE CORONAVIRUS OUTBREAK
Authors: Luo Shaowen , Tsang Kwok Ping
Published: May 2020

Using a network approach, we estimate the output loss due to the lockdown of the Hubei province triggered by the coronavirus disease (COVID‐19). Based on our most conservative estimate, China suffers about 4% loss of output from labor loss, and global output drops by 1% per period due to the economic contraction in China. About 40% of the impact is indirect, coming from spillovers through the supply chain inside and outside China. (JEL E23, E24, F62)
Endurance exercise in seniors: Tonic, toxin or neither?
Authors: Eze‐Nliam Chete , Schiller Nelson B. , Hayami Doug , Ghahghaie Farzin , Bibby Dwight , Fang Qizhi , Marcus Gregory M. , Åström Aneq Meriam
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Cardiac adaptation to sustained exercise in the athletes is established. However, exercise‐associated effect on the cardiac function of the elderly has to be elucidated. The aim of this study was to analyse left (LV) and right ventricular (RV) characteristics at different levels of chronic exercise in the senior heart.

Materials and methods

We studied 178 participants in the World Senior Games (mean age 68 ± 8 years, 86 were men; 48%). Three groups were defined based on the type and intensity of sports: low‐, moderate‐ and high‐intensity level. Exclusion criteria were coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, valvular heart disease or uncontrolled hypertension. LV and RV size and function were evaluated with an echocardiogram.

Results

LV trans‐mitral inflow deceleration time decreased in parallel to the intensity of chronic exercise: 242 ± 54 ms in low‐, 221 ± 52 ms in moderate‐ and 215 ± 58 ms in high‐intensity level, p = .03. Left atrial volume index (LAVI) was larger in high‐intensity group, p = .001. The LAVI remained significantly larger when adjusting for age, gender, heart rate, hypertension and diabetes (p = .002). LV and RV sizes were larger in the high‐intensity group. LV ejection fraction and RV systolic function evaluated by tissue Doppler velocity, atrioventricular plane displacement and strain did not differ between groups.

Conclusion

Left ventricular diastolic filling is not only preserved, but may also be enhanced in long‐term, top‐level senior athletes. Moreover, LV and RV systolic function remain unchanged at different levels of exercise. This supports the beneficial effects of endurance exercise participation in senior hearts.
Public Health Insurance and Farm Labor Supply: Evidence from China's Rural Health Insurance Reform
Authors: Luo Tianyuan , Escalante Cesar L.
Published: May 2020

This study examines the impact of China's public health insurance program on the farm employment decisions of the rural population. Using a difference‐in‐differences (DID) model, this study indicates that the public health insurance reform led to reallocation of the rural labor force out of the farm sector by reducing the farm employment and increasing the likelihood of rural residents working in both the farm and nonfarm sectors. This research finds that rural female residents who are of a younger age and in better health were more likely to leave farm employment when covered by public health insurance. Suggestive evidence also finds that such public health insurance reform increased the individual income of the farm population.
Exchange Rate Volatility, Heterogeneous Firms and Market Concentration
Authors: Lu Bing , Wang Yaqi , Tan Xiaofen
Published: May 2020

With the gradual promotion of market‐oriented reform of the RMB exchange rate, the fluctuation range of the RMB exchange rate is increasing. How to deal with the impact of exchange rate volatility on Chinese exports is an important challenge faced by China. This paper finds that although exchange rate volatility, as a whole, has a negative impact on exports, high‐productivity exporters are less prone to exchange rate volatility shock in both intensive and extensive margins. As high‐productivity firms are less affected by exchange rate risk, they account for larger market shares. This paper, from a new perspective, provides evidence that increasing productivity helps mitigate the negative impact of exchange volatility on exports.
How the Internet Promotes China's Exports: A Firm‐level Perspective
Authors: Mu Yifei , Chen Zhen , Ding Yibing , Wang Yuqing , Pang Bo
Published: May 2020

The development of information and communications technology (ICT), particularly the Internet, has reduced trade costs. However, it remains unclear whether these reduced costs are reflected in the “extensive margins” of firms’ exports (which refer to the probability of firms exporting) or the “intensive margins” (which refer to the value of firms’ export). To test this, we used the concepts of information cost and binary margins, an augmented trade model of firm heterogeneity, a two‐stage Heckman estimation, and data from the World Bank Enterprise Survey of Chinese firms in 2012. The results revealed that reduced trade costs from the use of ICT were positively related to extensive margins but that the connection with intensive margins was not significant. The results lead to the conclusion that reduced information costs related to a firm's exporting behavior were primarily reflected in variable trade costs. This study offers theoretical and empirical evidence for China's policies towards the Internet, which are relevant for the export of manufactured goods. The government should encourage the use of ICT to enhance firms’ export opportunities while facing current trade policy uncertainty.
Impact of right ventricular systolic function after heart transplantation on exercise capacity
Authors: Verset Lucas , Lavie‐Badie Yoan , Guitard Joëlle , Delmas Clément , Biendel‐Piquet Caroline , Cazalbou Stéphanie , Cariou Eve , Cron Christophe , Carrié Didier , Galinier Michel , Lairez Olivier , Fournier Pauline
Published: May 2020

Background

Right ventricular (RV) systolic parameters are difficult to assess in heart transplant recipients (HTRs) compared to healthy people because of discordant data, and their impact on exercise capacity remains undefined. We sought to retrospectively assess the impact of RV systolic function on exercise capacity after heart transplantation.

Methods

We analyzed data from 61 HTRs who underwent transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR), and exercise capacity assessment by 6‐minute walking test (6MWT) and cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) at 1‐ and 2‐year follow‐ups.

Results

Transthoracic echocardiography RV longitudinal systolic function including tricuspid annular plan systolic excursion (TAPSE), peak systolic S′ wave tricuspid annular velocity (PSVtdi) and RV free wall longitudinal strain was decreased at 1 year (respectively, 15 ± 3 mm, 10 ± 3 cm/s, and −19 ± 5%) and at 2 years (respectively, 15 ± 3 mm, 10 ± 2 cm/s, and −20 ± 5%) with no significant difference between both evaluations; meanwhile, RV ejection fraction (RVEF) measured by CMR was preserved. Mean percentage of predicted peak oxygen consumption was altered, but improved between the first and second year (55 ± 18 vs 60 ± 18%, P = .038). PSVtdi was weakly correlated with 6MWT distance (r = .426, P = .017) and RVEF with the predicted distance at 6MWT (r = .410, P = .027) at the 1‐year follow‐up.

Conclusions

Despite decreasing values, RV longitudinal systolic function has a weak impact on exercise capacity of HTRs. PSVtdi and RVEF are the most pertinent parameters to assess the impact of RV systolic function on exercise capacity after heart transplantation. These results should lead to redefine normal RV systolic function thresholds for HTRs.
Erythropoietin treatment in chronic phase chronic myeloid leukemia patients treated with frontline imatinib who developed late anemia
Authors: Cesini Laura , Frieri Camilla , Baratè Claudia , Sorà Federica , Bonifacio Massimiliano , Cerrano Marco , Cagnetta Antonia , Elena Chiara , Aprile Lara , Sgherza Nicola , Trawinska Malgorzata , Gozzini Antonella , Capodanno Isabella , Crugnola Monica , Carmosino Ida , Scalzulli Emilia , Ricci Federica , Bocchia Monica , Bergamaschi Micaela , Aguzzi Chiara , Sica Simona , Galimberti Sara , Breccia Massimo , Luciano Luigiana , Latagliata Roberto
Published: May 2020

Background

Role of erythropoietin (EPO) in the treatment of late anemia in patients with Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) is still undefined.

Methods

Fifty CML patients treated at 14 institutions with frontline imatinib for at least 12 months and in stable complete cytogenetic response who developed a late chronic anemia treated with EPO were retrospectively evaluated.

Results

Median time from imatinib start to EPO treatment was 42.2 months [interquartile range (IQR) 20.8‐91.9]. Median Hb value at EPO starting time was 9.9 g/dL (IQR 8.9‐10.3): Eleven patients (22.0%) were transfusion dependent. Alpha‐EPO (40 000 UI weekly) was employed in 37 patients, beta‐EPO (30 000 UI weekly) in 9 patients, zeta‐EPO (40 000 UI weekly) in 2 patients, and darbepoetin (150 mcg/weekly) in the remaining 2 patients. On the whole, 41 patients (82.0%) achieved an erythroid response, defined as a stable (>3 months) improvement >1.5 g/dL of Hb level, and 9 patients (18.0%) indeed resulted resistant. Among responding patients, 10 relapsed after a median time from EPO start of 20.7 months (IQR 10.8‐63.7). No EPO‐related toxicity was observed.

Conclusions

Results of EPO treatment for late chronic anemia during long‐lasting imatinib therapy are encouraging, with a high rate of response.
Hippocampal and prefrontal contributions to memory retrieval: Examination of immediate early gene, NMDA receptor and environmental interactions
Authors: Farina Francesca R. , Commins Seán
Published: May 2020

Animals can use a range of strategies to recall important locations. These include simple stimulus–response strategies and more complex spatial (place) strategies, which are thought to have distinct neural substrates. The hippocampus—and NMDA receptor activation therein—is considered to be crucial for spatial, but not response strategies. The medial prefrontal cortex has also been implicated in memory retrieval; however, evidence concerning its specific role is equivocal. Both hippocampal and prefrontal regions have been associated with flexible behavioural responding (e.g. when task demands change). Here, we investigated the use of spatial and non‐spatial strategies in the Morris water maze and their associated brain areas in rats using immediate early gene (IEG) imaging of Zif268 and c‐Fos. Specifically, we charted the involvement of hippocampal and prefrontal subregions during retrieval of spatial and non‐spatial memories. Behavioural flexibility was also examined using intact and partial cue configurations during recall. Results indicated that regions of both the hippocampus (area CA3) and prefrontal cortex (anterior cingulate cortex) were preferentially engaged in spatial memory recall compared to response learning. In addition, both spatial and non‐spatial memories were dependent on NMDA receptor activation. MK801 impaired recall performance across all groups and reduced IEG activation across hippocampal and prefrontal regions. Finally, IEG results revealed divergent patterns of Zif268 and c‐Fos activity and support the suggestion that Zif268 plays a functional role in the recall of long‐term memories.
Bisoprolol, a β1 antagonist, protects myocardial cells from ischemia–reperfusion injury via PI3K/AKT/GSK3β pathway
Authors: Wang Jing , Liu Jing , Xie Liang , Cai Xiaomin , Ma Xiaohua , Gong Jianbin
Published: May 2020

The aim of this work was to explore whether bisoprolol plays a protective role in cardiomyocytes against ischemia–reperfusion injury via PI3K/AKT/ GSK3β pathway. We pretreated male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats with bisoprolol by oral administration prior to 0.5 h ischemia/4 h reperfusion. Myocardial infarct size and serum levels of cTnI and CK‐MB were measured. In vitro, H9c2 cells were treated with hypoxia and reoxygenation, followed by measurement of cell viability, apoptosis, ROS production, cytometry, activities of AKT, GSK3β, and p‐38 in the presence and absence of GSK3β siRNA. We found that bisoprolol reduced infarct size from 44% in I/R group to 31% in treated group (P < 0.05). The levels of cTnI and CK‐MB were decreased from 286 ± 7 pg/mL and 32.2 ± 2 ng/mL in I/R group to 196 ± 2 pg/mL and 19.6 ± 0.9 ng/mL in the treated group, respectively (P < 0.05). Bisoprolol also increased cell viability while decreased apoptosis and ROS production in the treatment of hypoxia/ reoxygenation. Furthermore, bisoprolol increased AKT and GSK3β phosphorylation, an effect that was immediately eliminated by LY294002. GSK3β‐specific siRNA experiment further confirmed that bisoprolol protected the myocardium against hypoxia/reoxygenation‐induced injury via suppressing GSK3β activity. In conclusion, bisoprolol protected myocardium against ischemia–reperfusion injury via the PI3K/AKT/ GSK3β pathway.
The co‐existence of cold activity and thermal stability in an Antarctic GH42 β‐galactosidase relies on its hexameric quaternary arrangement
Authors: Mangiagalli Marco , Lapi Michela , Maione Serena , Orlando Marco , Brocca Stefania , Pesce Alessandra , Barbiroli Alberto , Camilloni Carlo , Pucciarelli Sandra , Lotti Marina , Nardini Marco
Published: May 2020

To survive in cold environments, psychrophilic organisms produce enzymes endowed with high specific activity at low temperature. The structure of these enzymes is usually flexible and mostly thermolabile. In this work, we investigate the structural basis of cold adaptation of a GH42 β‐galactosidase from the psychrophilic Marinomonas ef1. This enzyme couples cold activity with astonishing robustness for a psychrophilic protein, for it retains 23% of its highest activity at 5 °C and it is stable for several days at 37 °C and even 50 °C. Phylogenetic analyses indicate a close relationship with thermophilic β‐galactosidases, suggesting that the present‐day enzyme evolved from a thermostable scaffold modeled by environmental selective pressure. The crystallographic structure reveals the overall similarity with GH42 enzymes, along with a hexameric arrangement (dimer of trimers) not found in psychrophilic, mesophilic, and thermophilic homologues. In the quaternary structure, protomers form a large central cavity, whose accessibility to the substrate is promoted by the dynamic behavior of surface loops, even at low temperature. A peculiar cooperative behavior of the enzyme is likely related to the increase of the internal cavity permeability triggered by heating. Overall, our results highlight a novel strategy of enzyme cold adaptation, based on the oligomerization state of the enzyme, which effectively challenges the paradigm of cold activity coupled with intrinsic thermolability.

Database

Structural data are available in the Protein Data Bank database under the accession number 6Y2K.
Physical activity levels in men with Haemophilia—A single centre UK survey
Authors: Taylor Stephanie , Room Jonathan , Barker Karen
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Historically persons with haemophilia (PWH) were not encouraged to participate in exercise due to the risk of bleeding and the lack of factor products available. This has now changed, and the availability of safe products allows PWH to be active and participate in sports. Studies have found that exercise has a positive effect on pain, joint health and movement with PWH.

Aim

To record the amount and types of physical activity undertaken by a haemophilia population at a single treatment centre.

Methods

An observational cross‐sectional study to assess physical activity and quality of life of all registered patients over the age of 18 at the Oxford Haemophilia and Thrombosis Centre. Participants were posted questionnaires including the International Physical activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), Haemophilia Activity List (HAL), EQ‐5D‐5L and asked to list their physical activities.

Results

A total of 256 questionnaires were sent, with a 40% response rate for severe and 28% for mild patients. 85% met the UK physical activity guidelines. Sedentary behaviour for an average weekday was 6.4 hours, and weekends were 5.3 hours. Joint disease and severity type influenced the amount of activity undertaken, together with values for HAL and EQ‐5D‐5L. Twenty two types of activities were listed.

Conclusion

It is encouraging to see the amount of physical activity PWH participate in, however, time spent in a sedentary state needs monitoring. PWH want to be active and the challenge for caregivers is to find activities they can do and strategies to maintain participation.