bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The physical internet as a new supply chain paradigm: a systematic literature review and a comprehensive framework
Authors: Treiblmaier Horst , Mirkovski Kristijan , Lowry Paul Benjamin , Zacharia Zach G.
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The physical internet (PI) is an emerging logistics and supply chain management (SCM) concept that draws on different technologies and areas of research, such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and key performance indicators, with the purpose of revolutionizing existing logistics and SCM practices. The growing literature on the PI and its noteworthy potential to be a disruptive innovation in the logistics industry call for a systematic literature review (SLR), which we conducted that defines the current state of the literature and outlines future research directions and approaches.

Design/methodology/approach

The SLR that was undertaken included journal publications, conference papers and proceedings, book excerpts, industry reports and white papers. We conducted descriptive, citation, thematic and methodological analyses to understand the evolution of PI literature.

Findings

Based on the literature review and analyses, we proposed a comprehensive framework that structures the PI domain and outlines future directions for logistics and SCM researchers.

Research limitations/implications

Our research findings are limited by the relatively low number of journal publications, as the PI is a new field of inquiry that is composed primarily of conference papers and proceedings.

Originality/value

The proposed PI-based framework identifies seven PI themes, including the respective facilitators and barriers, which can inform researchers and practitioners on future potentially disruptive SC strategies.
Quality management for high-contact professional service firms: a multiple-case evidence from Indian law firms
Authors: Prashar Anupama
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This paper presents an exploratory study to understand the distinctive quality dimensions of high-contact Professional Service Firms (PSFs) and develop a conceptual model for Quality Management (QM). The paper is based on empirical evidences from multiple cases in leading Indian law firms.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper adopted an exploratory, multiple, embedded and comparative case study design. The empirical evidence from multiple case studies in 10 law firms (data includes 42 individual interviews, archival records, field notes) was used to explore the QM dimensions for PSFs.

Findings

The results showed that QM in PSFs is a multifaceted and continuous process rather than a straightforward and episodic one. The findings reveal three distinctive dimensions of QM for PSFs: managing the firm's image; managing the client-firm interaction and support processes and; managing the perceived value of service outcome. Further, the results showed a significant variation in the design of QM practices in a relatively homogenous group of PSFs (law firms). This reflected the influence of personnel and organizational characteristics on the QM.

Research limitations/implications

The research is based on evidences collected from 10 Indian law firms and the research design is exploratory in nature. The future research is suggested in terms of extending the scope and research design.

Practical implications

The insights obtained from the paper have implications for managers working on the design of service operations and particularly service quality in high-contact PSFs similar to law firms. While the study does not prescribe a standard design of QM systems for PSFs, it seeks to foster the thinking of managers by helping them conceptualize the broad quality-control checkpoints and quality attributes specific to PSF settings

Originality/value

The academic research in the management of professional service quality is dominated by conceptual/theoretical models for customer evaluation of service provider's performance and the issue of operationalization of QM in PSFs is still needs further investigation. This paper contributes to the theory of service operations management (SOM) by focusing on the structure of QM systems in PSFs.
Linking supervisor-support, person-job fit and person-organization fit to company value
Authors: Dhir Swati , Dutta Tanusree
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to quantitatively examine the impact of perceived supervisor support, person-job fit (PJF) and person-organization fit (POF) on the company’s value through job satisfaction (JS).

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 220 respondents selected from different organizations in India using standard questionnaires. To estimate the hypothesized model fit indices, partial least square structural equation modeling were used.

Findings

Findings suggest that there is a significant relationship among supervisor support, PJF and POF with JS and perceives company value.

Research limitations/implications

Human resource (HR) professionals need to understand how they can help to increase the JS of employees before they decide on HR measures that would help improve the perceived contribution to company value.

Originality/value

Support from the superior induces a sense of value and worthiness to the employee, which, in turn, strengthens the relationship between the employees with his/her organization. Along with this PJF and POF are other significant factors for employee satisfaction. If the person likes the job or in other words if the prescribed job is suitable for the person, then the employee feels significant, which amplifies JS. The same is applicable for the POF. Consequently, the perceived contribution to company value increases.
Returns and volume
Authors: Fousekis Panos
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The relationship between returns and trading volume is central in financial economics because it has both a theoretical interest and important practical implications with regard to the structure of financial markets and the level of speculation activity. The aim of this study is to provide new insights into the association between returns and trading volume by investigating their kernel (instantaneous) causality. The empirical analysis relies on time series data from 22 commodities futures markets (agricultural, energy and metals) in the USA.

Design/methodology/approach

Non-parametric (local linear) regressions are applied to daily data on returns and on trading activity; generalized correlation measures are computed and their differences are subjected to formal statistical testing.

Findings

The results suggest that raw returns are likely to kernel-cause volume and volume is likely to kernel-cause price volatility. The patterns of causal order are generally in line with what is stipulated by the relevant theory, they provide guidance for model specification and they appear to explain the empirical evidence on temporal (lag-lead) causality between the same pairs of variables obtained in earlier works.

Originality/value

The concept of kernel causality has very recently become a part of the toolkit for econometric/statistical analysis. To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first study that relies on the notion of kernel (instantaneous) causality to provide new evidence on a relationship that is of keen interest to investors, professional economists and policymakers.
An empirical longitudinal study of adoption of lean management in India
Authors: Rajagopalan Jayaraman
Published: May 2020

Purpose

To identify the factors that need to be addressed by Indian industry to steeply ramp up its production and productivity in the coming years, so as to achieve the goal of the country becoming a 5 trillion dollar economy by 2025.

Design/methodology/approach

Lean Management Leaders in Indian Industry (LMLII), i.e. those companies in India who are well known for having adopted TQM, BE and Lean methods for many years, and achieved success in their business) in Indian industry were selected and surveys were done between 2013 and 2017, to assess the status of LM adoption, by using the LESAT (version 2.0) survey tool. A longitudinal empirical study has been done, over a period of five years, so that the identification of factors is based on a few years’ data rather than a one year, spot-check or snapshot view. A new method, titled the ‘Three Step Reverse Exploratory Factor Analysis Procedure (TSREP)’, has been attempted to identify the ‘root causes’.

Findings

LMLII's have improved in their adoption of LM over these years by about 10%. The root causes that can help in further advancement in adoption have been identified and classified under six component factors.

Research limitations/implications

The identification of LMLII's has been done based on the experience and views of experts in TQM/ BE/ Lean in India. Since this is a first of such study (viz., the term LMLII is being defined and used for the first time), this methodology has been adopted. However, in future, a systematic way to assess the criteria for LMLII's could be designed. Secondly, the sample size of LMLII's needs to be fully representative of the industry.

Practical implications

By using the results of this study, Indian companies can accelerate their LM adoption programmes, leading to quantum jumps in production and productivity, so as to achieve the 5 trillion USD economy by 2025. The practical implications are immense.

Social implications

Since LM is a bundle of Lean, TQM and BE, companies adopting LM will, due to the inclusion of waste reduction through 5S, JIT, kaizens and continuous improvement, address the Triple Bottom Line (TBL) protocol of the UN. TBL has comprehensive implications on society and environment, climate change and sustainability of business.

Originality/value

This work is original, at least in three ways. First, in the use of the concept of ‘LML’. Second, there is no previous longitudinal study done on Indian industry in LM. Third, the TSREP is being used for the first time. The value of this research is in its findings, in the identification of key factors for future growth and the use of a novel technique for improving upon the accuracy, analytical rigour and legitimacy of the results.
Interconnection between implementation and competitive dimensions of SCM and combined approach (TQM–SCM) in context of Indian manufacturing industry
Authors: Kaur Mandeep , Singh Kanwarpreet , Singh Doordarshi
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is twofold. Firstly to check the reliability between and within the parameters of total quality management–supply chain management (TQM–SCM) questionnaire and distribution of data collected through questionnaire from SCM and combined approach (TQM–SCM) companies. Secondly, to analyze the correlation connection among dependent and independent parameters of both SCM and combined approach in order to check and increase confidence in the data obtained before conducting actual research.

Design/methodology/approach

In the present study, 45 Indian manufacturing organizations have been extensively surveyed to check the reliability of the data and then ascertain the inter-relationships between various independent factors and competitive dimensions of SCM alone and for combined approach (TQM–SCM).

Findings

Firstly, the data for both the approaches are reliable. Secondly, independent variables (X1–X8) possess more strong correlation with business performance parameters of combined approach (TQM–SCM) companies as compared to only SCM companies.

Originality/value

TQM and SCM are considered as performance improvement techniques by the manufacturing organizations. As far as the author knows, this is the first study that is designed to find the interconnection between implementation factors as well as competitive dimensions of SCM approach and TQM–SCM approach in the context of Indian manufacturing organizations.
Culturomics‐based genomics sheds light on the ecology of the new haloarchaeal genus Halosegnis
Authors: Durán‐Viseras Ana , Andrei Adrian‐Ştefan , Vera‐Gargallo Blanca , Ghai Rohit , Sánchez‐Porro Cristina , Ventosa Antonio
Published: May 2020

The development of culture‐independent techniques has revolutionized our understanding of microbial ecology, especially through the illustration of the vast gap between the environmentally abundant microbial diversity and that accessible through cultivation. However, culture‐based approaches are not only crucial for understanding the evolutionary, metabolic and ecological milieu of microbial diversity but also for the development of novel biotechnological applications. In this study, we used a culturomics‐based approach in order to isolate novel microbial taxa from hypersaline environments (i.e. Isla Cristina and Isla Bacuta salterns in Huelva, Spain). We managed to obtain axenic cultures of four haloarchaeal strains that belong to a new haloarchaeal genus and to obtain their genomic sequences. The phylogenomic and phylogenetic analyses (together with AAI, ANI and digital DDH indices) showed that the isolates constitute two new species, for which we propose the names Halosegnis longus sp. nov. and Halosegnis rubeus sp. nov. The genomic‐based metabolic reconstructions indicated that members of this new haloarchaeal genus have photoheterotrophic aerobic lifestyle with a typical salt‐in signature. 16S rRNA gene sequence reads abundance profiles and genomic recruitment analyses revealed that the Halosegnis genus has a worldwide geographical distribution, reaching high abundance (up to 8%) in habitats with intermediate salinities.
Politically Connected Governments
Authors: CUNY CHRISTINE , KIM JUNGBAE , MEHTA MIHIR N.
Published: May 2020

This paper examines the consequences of powerful political connections for local governments. We find that governments located within the constituencies of, and thus connected to, powerful congressional members reduce their stewardship over public resources. Using plausibly exogenous declines in the power of congressional representation, we show that the effect is causal. To better understand why connected local governments can reduce stewardship, we study electoral characteristics. Our findings suggest that the increased resources that come with powerful congressional representation allow local‐government officials to reduce stewardship without material adverse effects on their reelection prospects. In sum, we provide evidence of a cost of political connections: they weaken local governments' incentives to act in a socially optimal manner.
The role of cytokine and immune responses in intestinal fibrosis
Authors: Yang Bo , Zhang Ge , Elias Michael , Zhu Yijun , Wang Jie
Published: May 2020

The rapidly increasing incidence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in South America, eastern Europe, Asia, and Africa has resulted in a global public health challenge. Intestinal fibrosis is a common complication in patients with long‐term IBD, which may develop into stenosis and subsequent obstruction. Hitherto, the origin of IBD is unclear and several factors may be involved, including genetic, immune, environmental and microbial influences. Little is known about how the recurrent inflammation in patients with IBD develops into intestinal fibrosis and currently, there is no suitable treatment to reverse intestinal fibrosis in these patients. Here, we review the role of immune components in the pathogenesis of IBD and intestinal fibrosis, including cytokine networks, host–microbiome interactions, and immune cell trafficking.
18F‐FDG PET/CT imaging of small intestinal metastasis from pulmonary sarcomatoid carcinoma: Brief report and review of the literature
Authors: Xie Xinli , Tu Ning , Wang Qi , Cheng Zhen , Han Xingmin , Bu Lihong
Published: May 2020

We herein report two cases of small intestinal metastasis from pulmonary sarcomatoid carcinoma (PSC) detected by 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F‐FDG PET/CT). We reviewed the literature on 18F‐FDG PET/CT features in gastrointestinal metastasis of PSC patients since 1992, and further analyzed the imaging features. According to the literature review, 23 eligible cases were identified from eight studies, and no cases underwent 18F‐FDG PET/CT imaging. In this study, clinical and PET/CT imaging data of two patients are reported. In our cases, clinical and the CT images of lung masses were not typical, but the uptake of 18F‐FDG was remarkably high, with SUVmax exceeding 30. Small intestinal metastases may not be related to obstruction, or even the local intestinal cavity may be dilated. Therefore, in PSC patients with mild or without abdominal symptoms, 18F‐FDG PET/CT imaging could identify intestinal metastasis at a relatively early stage and may be used to determine the preferred biopsy site, or early intervention by surgery.

Key points

18F‐FDG PET/CT imaging of small intestinal metastasis of PSC has not been previously reported in the literature and here we report the 18F‐FDG PET/CT features of two cases.

The uptake of 18F‐FDG was remarkably high in both the primary tumor and metastatic intestinal lesion. 18F‐FDG PET/CT imaging may therefore be used to determine the preferred biopsy site or early intervention by surgery.
The efficacy of corticosteroid‐sparing immunomodulatory therapy in treating patients with central multifocal choroiditis
Authors: de Groot Evianne L. , ten Dam‐van Loon Ninette H. , de Boer Joke H. , Ossewaarde‐van Norel Jeannette
Published: May 2020

Purpose

To evaluate the efficacy of corticosteroid‐sparing immunomodulatory therapy (IMT) in patients with recurrent and/or sight‐threatening central multifocal choroiditis (MFC).

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study in a tertiary uveitis centre including all patients with MFC who have been treated with IMT for at least 12 months. Clinical data and imaging results were collected regarding the period prior to the start of IMT and at 3, 6, 12 and – where available – 24 months after the start of IMT. Main outcome measure was the number of annual recurrences of choroiditis with or without active choroidal neovascularization before and after the start of IMT. Secondary outcomes were the percentage of patients with (steroid‐free) remission and the median time between the start of IMT and (steroid‐free) remission.

Results

Thirty‐two patients (39 eyes) were included. At the start of IMT, none of the patients were in (steroid‐free) remission. At 24 months, the probability of achieving remission and steroid‐free remission was 88,5% and 50%, respectively. The median time to achieve remission and steroid‐free remission was 21 and 83 weeks, respectively. In 17 patients (20 eyes) with available clinical data and imaging results for ≥ 12 months prior to the start of IMT, the mean number of recurrences/year decreased significantly from 1.40 ± 0.81 at baseline to 0.49 ± 0.47 (p = 0.001) after the start of IMT.

Conclusions

Preventive therapy with IMT should be considered in patients with recurrent and/or sight‐threatening MFC to decrease the number of recurrences/year and to increase the prospects of achieving either remission or steroid‐free remission.
Long‐term results of the MCL01 phase II trial of rituximab plus HyperCVAD alternating with high‐dose cytarabine and methotrexate for the initial treatment of patients with mantle cell lymphoma
Authors: Massaro Fulvio , Stepanishyna Yana , Manni Martina , Luminari Stefano , Galimberti Sara , Marcheselli Luigi , Visco Carlo , Tecchio Cristina , Stelitano Caterina , Angrilli Francesco , Petrini Mario , Merli Francesco , Federico Massimo
Published: May 2020

Mantle cell lymphoma is a rare and incurable lymphoproliferative disorder. In the MCL01 trial, patients were treated with the R‐HCVAD regimen [rituximab plus HyperCVAD (hyperfractionated cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicin, dexamethasone; R‐CVAD) alternating with high‐dose methotrexate and cytarabine (AM)] for four cycles followed by autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) for those who reached only a partial response. After a median follow‐up of 10·5 years, we reported 10‐year progression‐free and overall survival rates of 35% and 61% respectively, with a 10‐years cumulative incidence rate of second malignancies of 10·6%. Mature results of the MCL01 trial confirmed the efficacy of HyperCVAD‐AM as a frontline regimen for younger patients (≤65 years).
Environmental change interventions to prevent unintentional home injuries among children in low‐ and middle‐income countries: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Bhatta Santosh , Mytton Julie , Deave Toity
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Unintentional home injury is an important cause of death and disability among children, especially those living in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs). This systematic review aimed to synthesize evidence about the effectiveness of environmental interventions to prevent unintentional child injury and/or reduce injury hazards in the home in LMICs.

Methods

Seven electronic databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled before and after (CBA) studies published up to 1 April 2018. Potentially eligible citations were screened by title and abstract and full texts of studies obtained. Synthesis was reported narratively, and where possible, meta‐analysis was conducted.

Results

Four studies met the inclusion criteria: One CBA study reported changes in injury incidence, and three RCTs reported changes in frequency of home hazards. In one study, child resistant containers were found effective in reducing the incidence of paraffin ingestion by 47% during and by 50% postintervention. A meta‐analysis of two trials found that home inspection, safety education and safety devices reduced postintervention mean scores for poisoning hazards [mean difference (MD) −0.77; 95% CI [−1.36, −0.19]] and burn‐related unsafe practices (MD −0.37; 95% CI [−0.66, −0.09]) but not for falls or electrical and paraffin burn hazards. A single trial found that home inspection and safety education reduced the postintervention mean scores for fall hazards (MD −0.5; 95% CI [−0.66, −0.33]) but not for ingestion hazards.

Conclusion

There is limited evidence that environmental change interventions reduce child injuries but evidence that they reduce some home hazards. More evidence is needed to determine if altering the physical home environment by removing potential hazards reduces injuries in LMICs.
Loss and vulnerability of lowland forests in mainland Southeast Asia
Authors: Namkhan Maliwan , Gale George A. , Savini Tommaso , Tantipisanuh Naruemon
Published: May 2020

Despite containing extraordinary levels of biodiversity, lowland (<200 m asl) tropical forests are extremely threatened globally. Southeast Asia is an area of high species richness and endemicity under considerable anthropogenic threat with, unfortunately, scant focus on its lowland forests. We estimated extent of lowland forest loss from 1998 to 2018, including inside protected areas and determined the vulnerability of this remaining forest. Maximum likelihood classification techniques were used to classify Landsat images to estimate lowland forest cover in 1998 and 2018. We used Bayesian belief networks with 20 variables to evaluate vulnerability of the forest that remained in 2018. Analyses were conducted at two spatial scales: landscape patch (analogous to ecoregion) and country level. Over 20 years, >120,000 km2 of forest (50% of forest present in 1998) was lost. Of the 14 lowland forest patches, 6 lost >50% of their area. At the country scale, Cambodia had the greatest deforestation (>47,500 km2). In 2018, 18% of the lowlands were forested, and 20% of these forests had some formal protection. Approximately 50% of the lowland forest inside protected areas (c. 11,000 km2) was also lost during the study period. Most lowland forest remaining is highly vulnerable; eight landscape patches had >50% categorized as such. Our results add to a growing body of evidence that the presence of protected areas alone will not prevent further deforestation. We suggest that more collaborative conservation strategies with local communities that accommodate conservation concessions specifically for lowland forests are urgently needed to prevent further destruction of these valuable habitats.
Evaluation and impact assessment of culture‐based fisheries to enhance fish yield in small reservoirs in Odisha State, India
Authors: Sarkar Uttam K. , Lianthuamluaia Lianthuamluaia , Panda Debabrata , Kumari Suman , Parida Pranaya K. , Karnatak Gunjan , Mishal Puthiyottil
Published: May 2020

The present study investigates the success of stocking fingerlings of Indian major carps ‐Gibelion catla (Hamilton), Labeo rohita Hamilton and Cirrhinus mrigala Hamilton – to enhance fish yield in 58 small reservoirs in Odisha State, India. Fish stocking and yield data were collected from State Fisheries Department, Odisha. The relationships between area, stocking density and fish yield of different size groups of reservoirs were assessed using the Pearson correlation coefficient (r). Fish yield increased significantly (p < 0.05, t‐test) from 204 kg/ha/year in 2012–13 to 323 kg/ha/year in 2013–14 due to adoption of CBF. The corresponding per capita fish production increased from 398 kg fisher−1 year−1 to 702 kg fisher−1 year−1 benefitting more than 8,000 fisher households. Reservoirs in the size group 100–500 ha showed the highest response of fish yield with respect to stocking of fingerlings. The size of fingerlings at stocking and area of the reservoir had greater impact on enhancing fish yield. Stocking had a profound positive impact on fish yield. This study forms a baseline evaluation of the impact of stocking on small tropical reservoirs in India. It also recommends management measures and discusses issues, and the way forward for sustainable fisheries enhancement in small tropical reservoirs in eastern India.
miR‐126 reduces trastuzumab resistance by targeting PIK3R2 and regulating AKT/mTOR pathway in breast cancer cells
Authors: Fu Rao , Tong Jing‐Shan
Published: May 2020

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been found to play a key role in drug resistance. In the current study, we aimed to explore the potential role of miR‐126 in trastuzumab resistance in breast cancer cells. We found that the trastuzumab‐resistant cell lines SKBR3/TR and BT474/TR had low expression of miR‐126 and increased ability to migrate and invade. The resistance, invasion and mobilization abilities of the cells resistant to trastuzumab were reduced by ectopic expression of miR‐126 mimics. In comparison, inhibition of miR‐126 in SKBR3 parental cells had the opposite effect of an increased resistance to trastuzumab as well as invasion and migration. It was also found that miR‐126 directly targets PIK3R2 in breast cancer cells. PIK3R2‐knockdown cells showed decreased resistance to trastuzumab, while overexpression of PIK3R2 increased trastuzumab resistance. In addition, our finding showed that overexpression of miR‐126 reduced resistance to trastuzumab in the trastuzumab‐resistant cells and that inhibition of the PIK3R2/PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway was involved in this effect. SKBR3/TR cells also showed increased sensitivity to trastuzumab mediated by miR‐126 in vivo. In conclusion, the above findings demonstrated that overexpression of miR‐126 or down‐regulation of its target gene may be a potential approach to overcome trastuzumab resistance in breast cancer cells.
Vital root resection in severely furcation‐involved maxillary molars: Outcomes after up to 7 years
Authors: Jepsen Karin , Dommisch Eva , Jepsen Søren , Dommisch Henrik
Published: May 2020

Aims

To introduce a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of furcation‐involved maxillary molars by vital root resection and report longer‐term outcomes of a case series.

Methods

Eleven patients with 15 maxillary molars affected by double/triple class II (n = 10) or single/double class III (n = 5) furcation defects and advanced vertical bone loss around one root participated. Teeth were treated with deep pulpotomy using a calcium silicate‐based cement. After 4 weeks, the affected roots were removed by periodontal microsurgery and processed for histological evaluation of the pulp. All patients were enrolled into a supportive periodontal care programme. During the follow‐up period, assessments of tooth sensitivity, response to percussion, mobility, pocket probing depth (PPD) and bleeding on probing (BOP) were made, periapical radiographs obtained and patient‐reported outcomes collected.

Results

All teeth remained sensitive to pulp testing. After 1 year and 3–7 years of follow‐up, PD was ≤5 mm at all resected teeth. Furcation status was much improved. Neither increasing mobility nor clinical or radiographic signs of periapical pathology were observed throughout the individual observation period. All patients were pleased with the result of therapy. Histologic sections revealed a functional dentin‐pulp complex.

Conclusions

This case series demonstrates the possibility of maintaining severely furcation‐involved molars by vital root resection for up to 7 years. Root canal therapy and its associated costs and complications can thus be avoided.
Evaluation of the levels of secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor in the cervical mucus of women with unexplained infertility
Authors: Madendag Ilknur Col , Sahin Mefkure Eraslan , Madendag Yusuf , Sahin Erdem , Karakukcu Cigdem
Published: May 2020

Aim

Secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) has specific effects on the immune system. SLPI is overexpressed in inflammation triggered by immune responses, which could have significant effects on the local immune responses in cervical mucosa. This over expression may be greater in women with unexplained infertility, which would increase the immune reaction in the cervical region against sperm. The aim of our study was to assess the levels of SLPI in cervical mucus in women with unexplained infertility.

Methods

This prospective cross‐sectional study was conducted using 50 Caucasian volunteers between 20 and 40 years old. The 50 participants were divided into two groups as unexplained infertility (n = 20) and control (n = 30). The control group comprised healthy fertile women with demographic characteristics similar to those of the infertility group. The enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay method was used to assess SLPI levels in the cervical mucus of all participants.

Results

The median SLPI level in cervical mucus was 3767 (3541–4594, 95% CI) pg/mL (25th percentile; 3139 pg/mL, 75th percentile; 5047 pg/mL) in the unexplained‐infertility group and 3204 (2602–3539, 95% CI) pg/mL (the 25th percentile = 2615 pg/mL; 75th percentile = 3990 pg/mL) in the control group, which was a significant difference (P = 0.013).

Conclusion

Our results indicated that SLPI levels in cervical mucus were remarkably higher in patients with unexplained infertility than in the control group.
Trends in the use of medications with insomnia side effects and the implications for insomnia among US adults
Authors: Do Duy
Published: May 2020

Americans are increasingly consuming pharmaceuticals that although effective in treating their focal indication, include insomnia as a side effect. Regardless, no studies have documented trends in the concurrent use of these medications and their implications for insomnia among community‐dwelling adults. Using a nationally representative sample of US adults from the 1999–2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), this study shows that the concurrent use of medications with insomnia as a potential side effect (“insomnia side effects” hereafter) has increased considerably in the past two decades. Between 1999 and 2016, the use of one and two or more medications with insomnia side effects increased by 66% and 164%, respectively. Compared to non‐users, respondents who took two or more of these medications were more likely to report insomnia symptoms (odds ratio [OR] = 1.78; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.22 to 2.60), daytime sleepiness symptoms (OR = 1.73; 95% CI, 1.16 to 2.60) and difficulty with at least two daytime activities due to sleepiness or tiredness (OR = 1.96; 95% CI, 1.28 to 3.00). These findings highlight the need for insomnia screenings among patients who consume medications with insomnia side effects. They also emphasize the increased risks of insomnia associated with polypharmacy.
Objectively measured sedentary time, physical activity and liver enzyme elevations in US Hispanics/Latinos
Authors: Li Jun , Hua Simin , Chen Guo‐Chong , Strizich Garrett , Kuniholm Mark H. , Shan Zhilei , Talavera Gregory A. , Castañeda Sheila F. , Gellman Marc D. , Cai Jianwen , Cotler Scott J. , Zhang Xuehong , Hu Frank B. , Kaplan Robert , Isasi Carmen R. , Qi Qibin
Published: May 2020

Background & Aims

Sedentariness and physical inactiveness are associated with deleterious health outcomes, but their associations with liver enzyme elevations remain uncertain.

Methods

In 10 385 US Hispanics/Latinos from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos, we examined associations of sedentary time and moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (MVPA) measured by accelerometers with liver enzyme elevations. Elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase and γ‐glutamyltransferase (GGT) were defined as the highest gender‐specific deciles. Prevalence ratios (PRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using weighted Poisson regressions.

Results

After adjusting for demographical/socioeconomic factors and MVPA, increasing quartiles of sedentary time were associated with a higher prevalence of elevated ALT (PRs [95% CI] = 1.0, 1.17 [0.92‐1.47], 1.21 [0.96, 1.53] and 1.51 [1.13‐2.02]; P‐trend = .007) and elevated GGT (PRs [95% CI] = 1.0, 1.06 [0.82‐1.36], 1.35 [1.06‐1.73] and 1.66 [1.27‐2.16]; P‐trend = .0001). These associations were attenuated but remained significant after further adjustment for cardiometabolic traits including body‐mass index, waist‐hip‐ratio, lipids and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance. In contrast, increasing quartiles of MVPA were associated with a lower prevalence of elevated ALT (PRs [95% CI] =1.0, 0.97 [0.77‐1.23], 0.84 [0.66‐1.06] and 0.72 [0.54‐0.96]; P‐trend = .01) after adjusting for demographical/socioeconomic factors and sedentary time, but this association became non‐significant after further adjustment for cardiometabolic traits. Notably, the association of sedentary time with GGT elevation was significant both in individuals meeting the US Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans (MVPA ≥150 minutes/week) and in those who did not (both P‐trend ≤ .003).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that objectively measured sedentary time is independently associated with elevated ALT and GGT in US Hispanics/Latinos.
Gender, exercise, and health: A life‐course cross‐sectional study
Authors: Matud M. Pilar , Díaz Amelia
Published: May 2020

The purpose of this study is to explore relationships between the practice of exercise, gender, and health, from adolescence to old age, testing the magnitude of gender differences throughout the life cycle in the practice of exercise of Spanish people. A cross‐sectional study with 4,575 women and 4,334 men, aged 13–85 years, was conducted. The participants were assessed on the weekly hours they dedicated to the practice of exercise, masculine/instrumental and feminine/expressive traits, mental health symptomatology, and self‐rated health). Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed in the age groups of adolescence, late adolescence, young adulthood, middle adulthood, and older age. Results showed that men dedicated significantly more hours to the practice of exercise than women within all age groups, except in older age (men´s average = 4.07; women´s average = 2.55). The masculine/instrumental trait played a mediating role between gender and practice of exercise hours. Furthermore, a decline in the amount of time dedicated to exercise from adolescence to older age was found, with higher drops in men. Finally, the practice of exercise was associated with better self‐rated health and less mental symptoms. These results underline the important role that gender and masculine‐instrumental trait play on the practice of exercise .
Pediculosis capitis in schoolchildren and the marginality rate of the Metropolitan area of Guadalajara, Mexico.
Authors: Valle Barbosa María Ana , Muñoz De La Torre Armando , Vega López María Guadalupe , Flores Villavicencio María Helena , Robles Bañuelos Raúl
Published: May 2020

Pediculosis capitis (PC) is a plague in schoolchildren around the world, there is a sub-record of cases of this infestation. It is important to expose the lack of studies on the problem, whose presence dates back ancestral times. Methodology: The marginality index in four schools is explored, together with the presence of PC in them. Public schools of the municipalities of Zapopan, Tonalá, Tlaquepaque, and Guadalajara, Mexico are studied. It is a descriptive, transversal and comparative research. Objective: To identify according to the marginality index if there are differences in the prevalence of PC in schoolchildren of four schools in the metropolitan area of Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico. Results: The sample consisted of 720 

schoolchildren. A highest frequency of pediculosis in the female sex was determined, representing 82.35% of the infested students; a global prevalence of 4.72% and a cumulative prevalence of 51.94% was demonstrated, that is, more than half of the students have ever had lice. The presence of these parasites is more common in girls and in long hair. The schools that presented more PC cases are in the medium marginality index.
Estrategia de simulación para aplicar el protocolo SPIKES en la comunicación de malas noticias
Authors: Gordillo Navas Gladys Cecilia , Trujillo Martínez Javier David , Filizzola Bermúdez Juan David
Published: May 2020

En el campo de la salud, las malas noticias se definen como cualquier información que altere drástica y negativamente la visión del paciente sobre su futuro. La comunicación de malas noticias es de gran relevancia en la práctica clínica; sin embargo, a pesar de su importancia, la formación de los profesionales de salud frente a la adquisición de esta habilidad es deficiente. La entrega hábil de malas noticias puede proporcionar comodidad para el paciente y su familia; no obstante, una mala comunicación puede generar reacciones emocionales negativas, perspectivas erróneas sobre el pronóstico clínico e incluso tener implicaciones legales. La literatura describe varios protocolos y herramientas que favorecen la adecuada entrega de malas noticias, así como estrategias académicas que facilitan su aprendizaje. Este artículo propone una reflexión sobre el uso de escenarios simulados para el entrenamiento de profesionales de la salud, en comunicación de malas noticias, utilizando el protocolo SPIKES.
Network structure of interactions between phytophagous mites and their host-plants in natural ecosystems in Brazil

Authors: De Araújo Walter Santos , De Freitas Érica Vanessa Durães , Silveira Luana Teixeira , Daud Rodrigo Damasco
Published: May 2020

Phytophagous mites represent a diverse group of Arachnida, however, the patterns of their interactions with their host plants remain little explored. Herein we compare structural patterns of plant-phytophagous mite networks of forest and open habitats in Brazil. We adopted network size, network connectance and network modularity to characterize plant-mite network structure. We analyzed 11 plant-mite networks composed by 106 mite species, 96 host-plant species, and 342 distinct interactions. Tetranychidae and Eriophyidae were the most speciose mite families while Euphorbiaceae and Fabaceae were the most relevant host-plant families, hosting 67 and 16 mite species, respectively. We did not find any differences in network size and modularity between biomes and habitat types. However, network connectance was lower for open vegetation habitats than for forest habitat networks. Open areas can constrain the selection of defensive traits by plant species, leading phytophagous mites to consume plant species more selectively, which generates low connectivity in networks of these environments. The small number of plant-mite networks described here highlights the need for more efforts to increase knowledge about plant mites in Brazilian natural vegetation.
Standing on a Double-Seesaw Device is an Easy Way to Modify the Coordination Between the Two Feet for Controlling Upright Stance: Assessment Through Weight-Bearing Asymmetry
Authors: Rougier Patrice R. , Coquard Thibaud , Paillard Thierry , Ankaoua Clément , Dury Jeanne , Barthod Corentin , Perennou Dominic
Published: May 2020

Healthy young subjects were instructed to modify their weight-bearing asymmetry when standing on a double-seesaw device. The results indicated decreased and unchanged amplitudes in the center-of-pressure movements under the unloaded and loaded legs, respectively. In addition, a concomitant increased contribution of the more loaded leg and a decreased contribution of the pressure distribution mechanism along the mediolateral axis were observed in the production of the resultant center of pressure, its amplitude remaining constant. Thus, contrary to what was previously reported for stance control on solid ground, one of the main characteristics of a double-seesaw device, by preventing increased amplitudes on the loaded side during weight-bearing asymmetry, would be to facilitate a greater independency of the feet in the stance control process.
A hydrodynamic analog of Friedel oscillations
Authors: Sáenz Pedro J. , Cristea-Platon Tudor , Bush John W. M.
Published: May 2020

We report a new classical analog of electron scattering from an impurity on a metal surface.
Cenozoic sea-level and cryospheric evolution from deep-sea geochemical and continental margin records
Authors: Miller Kenneth G. , Browning James V. , Schmelz W. John , Kopp Robert E. , Mountain Gregory S. , Wright James D.
Published: May 2020

Global mean sea level estimated for the Cenozoic using a new astronomically calibrated Pacific benthic foraminiferal δ18O splice.
Food web controls on mercury fluxes and fate in the Colorado River, Grand Canyon
Authors: Walters D. M. , Cross W.F. , Kennedy T.A. , Baxter C.V. , Hall R.O. , Rosi E.J.
Published: May 2020

Species traits and trophic interactions drive contaminant flux and fate in linked river-riparian food webs.
ATAC-seq identifies thousands of extrachromosomal circular DNA in cancer and cell lines
Authors: Kumar Pankaj , Kiran Shashi , Saha Shekhar , Su Zhangli , Paulsen Teressa , Chatrath Ajay , Shibata Yoshiyuki , Shibata Etsuko , Dutta Anindya
Published: May 2020

EccDNAs are hiding in plain sight in conventional ATAC-seq data.
Immobilization of Phosphatidylserine by Ethanol and Lysozyme on the Cell Surface for Evaluation of Apoptosis-Like Decay in Activated-Sludge Bacteria
Authors: Chen Ben , Zhao Yasi , Li Zemin , Pan Jianxin , Wu Haizhen , Qiu Guanglei , Feng Chunhua , Wei Chaohai
Published: May 2020

Since the externalization of phosphatidylserine (PS) is considered a crucial characteristic of apoptosis, we sought to identify apoptosis-like decay in bacterial cells by PS staining using AVF. We show that this is possible, provided the bacteria are pretreated with ethanol plus lysozyme to remove a physical staining barrier and preserve the original, decay-related externalization of PS. Our work suggests that PS externalization occurs in starved bacteria and this can be quantified with AVF staining, providing a measure of bacterial decay. Since PS is the common component of the lipid bilayer in bacterial cell membranes, this approach also has potential for evaluation of cell decay of other bacterial species.
Fifteen-minute consultation: Fertility preservation in children with cancer
Authors: King David Anthony , Lane Sheila , Yeomanson Daniel
Published: May 2020

Advances in the treatment of childhood cancer have led to significant numbers of children surviving into adulthood and beyond. There is therefore an increasing focus on reduction of long-term effects of treatment including subfertility. In this article, we give an overview of the different methods of fertility preservation and how to discuss this important topic in children newly diagnosed with cancer.
Pituitary hyperplasia with Sertoli cell-only and 47,XYY syndromes: an uncommon triad
Authors: Ra Amelle Geurim , Evans Paul Jeffrey , Awasthi Anshu , Srinivas-Shankar Upendram
Published: May 2020

We report the case history of a 32-year-old man with no phenotypical abnormalities who presented with infertility. Semen analysis revealed azoospermia and testicular biopsy confirmed Sertoli cell-only (SCO) syndrome. Karyotyping revealed 47,XYY and pituitary hyperplasia was found on MRI pituitary. In our patient, 47,XYY karyotype is likely to have given rise to SCO syndrome that in turn resulted in pituitary hyperplasia. The patient was evaluated by various members of the multidisciplinary team including the pituitary surgeon, endocrinologist and andrologist. The patient’s partner successfully delivered a healthy baby via in vitro fertilisation with donor sperm. This triad of diagnoses (SCO syndrome, 47,XYY karyotype and pituitary hyperplasia) has not been reported previously. SCO syndrome should be considered in the presence of azoospermia, elevated follicle-stimulating hormone, low inhibin-B and normal testosterone levels. Our case report also highlights the importance of excluding genetic causes of infertility even when the patient has no phenotypical abnormalities.
Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis of lumbosacral spine producing extensive destruction with lumbosacral kyphosis
Authors: Rathod Tushar , Sathe Ashwin , Kolur Shivaprasad
Published: May 2020

It is uncommon to get lumbosacral junction deformity due to tuberculosis. Lumbosacral junction alignment is of paramount importance in maintaining global sagittal balance. In this case report, we present a case of a 42-year-old woman with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis of lumbosacral spine with complete destruction of L3, L4 and L5 vertebra with partial destruction of L2 and S1 vertebra leading to significant shortening and lumbosacral kyphosis. The patient had severe axial low back pain, inability to sleep in supine position due to deformity and difficulty in walking due to loss of spinal alignment. The patient was treated with 6 weeks of antituberculous drugs followed by all posterior decompression with instrumentation from D10 to S2 with a reconstruction of anterior vertebral bodies with the help of an expandable cage. Antituberculous treatment was continued for 18 months. At present, the patient is asymptomatic with no neurological deficit and has completed 3.5 years of regular follow-up.
Ureaplasma urealyticuminfection presenting as pyelonephritis and perinephric abscess in an immunocompromised patient
Authors: Ngoo Alexander , Eisemann Jared , Matsika Admire , Winkle David
Published: May 2020

We report a case of an immunosuppressed 67-year-old woman who presented with fever of unknown origin. Further investigation revealed multiple left renal and perinephric abscesses. These were managed with percutaneous drainage and broad-spectrum antibiotics; however, no clinical improvement resulted. No organism was identifiable on standard microscopy and culture of all drain, blood and urine samples taken. Left nephrectomy with right urinary diversion was performed for sepsis management and to protect the patient’s right kidney. Eventually,Ureaplasmaspecies’ RNA was detected in the patient’s drain fluid using PCR and 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing. The patient was treated successfully with targeted antibiotic therapy and underwent extensive rehabilitation following this. Histopathology of the nephrectomy specimen suggested xanthogranulomatous pyelonephritis.