bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Demystifying the role of causal-predictive modeling using partial least squares structural equation modeling in information systems research
Authors: Chin Wynne , Cheah Jun-Hwa , Liu Yide , Ting Hiram , Lim Xin-Jean , Cham Tat Huei
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) has become popular in the information systems (IS) field for modeling structural relationships between latent variables as measured by manifest variables. However, while researchers using PLS-SEM routinely stress the causal-predictive nature of their analyses, the model evaluation assessment relies exclusively on criteria designed to assess the path model's explanatory power. To take full advantage of the purpose of causal prediction in PLS-SEM, it is imperative for researchers to comprehend the efficacy of various quality criteria, such as traditional PLS-SEM criteria, model fit, PLSpredict, cross-validated predictive ability test (CVPAT) and model selection criteria.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic review was conducted to understand empirical studies employing the use of the causal prediction criteria available for PLS-SEM in the database of Industrial Management and Data Systems (IMDS) and Management Information Systems Quarterly (MISQ). Furthermore, this study discusses the details of each of the procedures for the causal prediction criteria available for PLS-SEM, as well as how these criteria should be interpreted. While the focus of the paper is on demystifying the role of causal prediction modeling in PLS-SEM, the overarching aim is to compare the performance of different quality criteria and to select the appropriate causal-predictive model from a cohort of competing models in the IS field.

Findings

The study found that the traditional PLS-SEM criteria (goodness of fit (GoF) by Tenenhaus, R2 and Q2) and model fit have difficulty determining the appropriate causal-predictive model. In contrast, PLSpredict, CVPAT and model selection criteria (i.e. Bayesian information criterion (BIC), BIC weight, Geweke–Meese criterion (GM), GM weight, HQ and HQC) were found to outperform the traditional criteria in determining the appropriate causal-predictive model, because these criteria provided both in-sample and out-of-sample predictions in PLS-SEM.

Originality/value

This research substantiates the use of the PLSpredict, CVPAT and the model selection criteria (i.e. BIC, BIC weight, GM, GM weight, HQ and HQC). It provides IS researchers and practitioners with the knowledge they need to properly assess, report on and interpret PLS-SEM results when the goal is only causal prediction, thereby contributing to safeguarding the goal of using PLS-SEM in IS studies.
Colonized by the development discourse: life and living heritage in the shadow of antiquities
Authors: Bialostocka Olga
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Tangible and intangible aspects of living heritage shape the identity of communities whose daily experience is integrated into heritage cultural spaces. Interference in this intricately woven, historically rich context may have significant sociocultural and material consequences for the people inhabiting it. Using the example of the ancient Theban Necropolis and “modern” Gurna, the paper looks at the loss of contemporary cultural heritage in favor of Pharaonic antiquities to question the model of heritage management and development practiced through violence in Egypt.

Design/methodology/approach

Written from a decolonial perspective, the paper is positioned within the post-development school of thought. It applies subjectivist epistemology to argue for pluriversality.

Findings

Focusing on the historical context of the community of Gurnawis, the paper highlights power inequalities among heritage stakeholders and discusses the violence of coloniality that challenges the freedom of human experiences and representations.

Social implications

Decolonial in nature, the paper has a futuristic horizon. It calls for decolonization of the discourse of development, which remains marred by the Western understanding of “civilizational advancement” seen as modernization, industrialization and economic growth. It further argues for imagining alternatives to the current social realities, which would account for the diversity of human experiences and consider a pluriverse of meanings.

Originality/value

The paper applies a decolonial perspective to the study of heritage to demonstrate the impact of colonial rationality on the theory and practice of the discipline of archaeology, as well as its consequences for heritage management in Egypt. Speaking from the standpoint of the marginalized population of Gurna, the paper further reveals the damage done by the colonial discourse of development to those who dare to create and live their own reality.
Nursing home leaders' perception of factors influencing the reporting of elder abuse and neglect: a qualitative study
Authors: Myhre Janne , Malmedal Wenche Karin , Saga Susan , Ostaszkiewicz Joan , Nakrem Sigrid
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the factors that influence the reporting of adverse events related to elder abuse and neglect in nursing homes from nursing home leaders' perspectives. Good leadership requires in-depth knowledge of the care and service provided and the ability to identify and address problems that can arise in clinical practice.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative explorative design with data triangulation was used. The sample consisted of 43 participants from two levels of nursing home leadership, representing six municipalities and 21 nursing homes in Norway. Focus group interviews were undertaken with 28 ward leaders and individual interviews with 15 nursing home directors. The constant comparative method was used for the analyses.

Findings

Both ward leaders and nursing home directors described formal and informal ways of obtaining information related to elder abuse and neglect. There were differences between their perceptions of the feasibility of obtaining formal reports about abuse in the nursing home. Three main categories of influencing factors emerged: (1) organisation structural factors, (2) cultural factors and (3) abuse severity factors. A main finding is that in its present form, the Norwegian adverse event reporting system is not designed to detect abuse and neglect.

Originality/value

This paper provides an in-depth understanding of patient safety and factors related to reporting elder abuse in nursing homes in Norway.
Impact of environmental belief and nature-based destination image on ecotourism attitude
Authors: Thi Khanh Chi Nguyen , Phong Le Thai
Published: August 2020

Purpose

This study examines the direct and indirect impact of environmental belief, nature-based destination image and time perspective on tourist attitude towards ecotourism.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected through a structured questionnaire survey conducted in Vietnam. The dataset consists of 479 valid responses by Vietnamese tourists. Correlation analysis and structural equation modeling (SEM) were used to test the causal relationships among time perspective, environmental belief, nature-based destination and ecotourism attitude. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) is conducted to verify the reliability and validity of each latent construct, and to evaluate the discriminant validity, convergent validity, composition reliability and average variance extracted (AVE) for the latent constructs.

Findings

This study finds statistically significant and positive effects of time perspective, environmental belief and nature-based destination image on ecotourism attitude. The results also indicate that environmental belief is found to have statistically significant effects both direct and indirect on ecotourism attitude; its indirect effect is transmitted through nature-based destination image. Our findings demonstrate empirically that tourists are mainly attracted by natural environment sites and that tourists having environmental beliefs are likely to engage in ecotourism than other types of tourism by first influencing their attitude.

Research limitations/implications

One limitation is associated with our measurement method, which relies on respondents’ self-ratings of their activities. Second, our study is based on internal consistency assessments for establishing construct reliability and validity, which might be the problem of measurement misspecification in tourism research and hinder us to adequately capture the dynamic nature of the variables and the underlying relationships. Third, the survey is conducted in one specific ecotourism nation like Vietnam, and thus, the findings must also be explained in this case.

Practical implications

Policymakers need to pay careful attention to the planning and conservation of local resources, as well as infrastructure, for ecotourism development. Moreover, the management of eco-site needs to maintain ecology properly, provide an authentic ecotourism experience to improve ecotourism destination. Otherwise, ecotourism operators should focus on marketing strategies to increase traditional and natural values and promote eco-friendly social standards for fostering demand.

Originality/value

This study examines an integrated model analyzing the impact of time perspective, environmental belief and nature-based destination on tourist attitude towards ecotourism. This study reveals the understanding of how individuals’ view towards belief in environment and location image, influences their attitude to engage in ecotourism. The study provides several implications for practice.
Case-based reasoning for complexity management in Industry 4.0
Authors: Schott Peter , Lederer Matthias , Eigner Isabella , Bodendorf Freimut
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Increasingly, dynamic market environments lead to growing complexity in manufacturing and pose a severe threat for the competitiveness of manufacturing companies. Systematic guidance to manage this complexity, especially in the context of Industry 4.0 and the therewith rising trends such as digitalization and data-driven production optimization, is lacking. To address this deficit a case-based reasoning (CBR) system for providing knowledge about managing complexity in Industry 4.0 is presented.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the explicit knowledge representation for managing complexity in IT-based manufacturing is introduced. Second, the CBR process step to retrieve knowledge from an artificially composed case base with in total 70 cases of data-based complexity management in the context of Industry 4.0 is set out. Third, knowledge transfer alongside several maturity levels of information technology capabilities of manufacturing systems for reuse in new problem scenarios is introduced.

Findings

The paper comprises the conceptual approach for designing a CBR system to support data-based complexity management in manufacturing systems. Furthermore, the appropriateness of the CBR system to provide applicable knowledge for reducing and managing complexity in corporate practice is shown.

Research limitations/implications

The presented research results are evaluated in the course of an embedded single case study and may therefore lack generalizability. Future research to test and enhance the appropriateness of the developed CBR system will strengthen the research contribution.

Originality/value

The paper provides a novel approach to systematically support knowledge transfer for data-based complexity management by transferring the well-known and established methodology of CBR to the rising application domain of manufacturing systems in the context of Industry 4.0.
Addressing the challenges to electric vehicle adoption via sharing economy: an Indian perspective
Authors: Kumar Rupesh , Jha Ajay , Damodaran Akhil , Bangwal Deepak , Dwivedi Ashish
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the challenges before India for electric vehicle (EV) adoption by 2030. The study further looks into the measures taken by the Government of India (GOI) to promote research and development in EV sector and what is yet to be done.

Design/methodology/approach

In the present study, the challenges are identified allied to the commercialization of EVs in India. The data are collected, analyzed and compiled through secondary sources. The secondary data give a concise insight and comprehensive information regarding what is occurring around the globe as well as in the Indian context. Further, the challenges are investigated through a focus group study consisting of 11 participants from industry and academia.

Findings

The findings from the study are the critical roles of sharing economy and public utilities in the promotion of EV adoption, given the high cost of EV, lack of infrastructure and poor purchasing power of Indian customers. The sharing economy perspective provides various opportunities for the government to manage the resources (electric-powered transport system) optimally. Further, the study compares the global perspective in assigning the target figures.

Research limitations/implications

The study highlights the facilitating role of the shared format in EV technology promotion but ignores the hurdles that can come in its implementations. Also, the focus group study has its limitation as it relies more on participants' perceptions and opinions.

Originality/value

The present study assists GOI and various stakeholders in having a realistic plan rather than daydreaming with overambitious goals. The diffusion of technology as a shared format (especially in the context of EV) has not been academically approached in the past literature.
Gender differences: visual attention and attitude toward advertisements
Authors: Boscolo Juliana Cristina , Oliveira Jorge Henrique Caldeira , Maheshwari Vishwas , Giraldi Janaina de Moura Engracia
Published: August 2020

Purpose

This study examines the differences between genders in visual attention and attitudes toward different types of advertisements.

Design/methodology/approach

An experimental design using a structured questionnaire and six print advertisements with a male, female and neutral focus was used to evaluate gender differences. In total, 180 students from a public university in Brazil participated in the study. An eye-tracking device was employed, using the Tobii Studio software, to get the visual attention metrics for this study.

Findings

In the case of the female advertisements, no significant difference between visual attention and attitude was found; however, differences were found in the case of male visual attention to the image and their relative attitudes toward the advertisements.

Research limitations/implications

Because it is a laboratory experiment using quota sampling, mainly Latin consumers, the potential for broader generalization may be limited. Besides, since they are real image advertisement images, there may be some interference in the respondents' responses from previous interactions with the brand or product exposed or even from a prior observation of this advertisement.

Originality/value

This study provides deeper insight into Latin consumers' preferences and associations, who have a different cultural and national context. This study contributes to the use of the eye-tracking tool as a neuromarketing technique to evaluate and analyze visual attention.
A text mining-based review of the literature on dynamic capabilities perspective in information systems research
Authors: Talafidaryani Mojtaba
Published: August 2020

Purpose

While the dynamic capabilities perspective is the most cited strategic theory in the information systems field of research, little effort has been made to review and integrate the associate literature of this perspective in the field. Accordingly, this paper aims to systematically analyze the information systems literature on dynamic capabilities and provide a holistic understanding of the topical composition and trend of dynamic capabilities studies in information systems research.

Design/methodology/approach

Using latent Dirichlet allocation as the text analysis algorithm, the author conducted a topic modeling of the dynamic capabilities corpus in the information systems field of research to quantitatively review, summarize and classify the prior literature. The review covered 191 articles published on dynamic capabilities between 1998 and 2018 in pioneering information systems journals and conference proceedings.

Findings

In accordance with the topic modeling results, the topical composition of the dynamic capabilities corpus in information systems research dominantly includes seven themes titled T1. Information systems value, T2. Information systems change, T3. Digitalization, T4. Information systems agility, T5. Big data, T6. Information systems innovation and T7. Information systems alignment. Also, the overall and topical trend of dynamic capabilities studies in the information systems field of research were revealed. The trends indicated that the investigated domain and its prominent sub-domains have generally had positive productivity over the past years.

Originality/value

The current study contributes to the domain by developing knowledge and improving literature on dynamic capabilities in information systems research, discovering the main topics of interest for information systems researchers to deploying the dynamic capabilities perspective in their studies, and prioritizing the future information systems research on dynamic capabilities based on the identified trends of topics.
Towny: a new business model for a mobile economy
Authors: Self Tyler
Published: August 2020

Research methodology

This case was developed from interviews the author held with Nathan Baumeister, the protagonist in the case and Towny CEO; Hannah Franzen, a Towny marketing employee discussed in the case; and Mallory Franzen, Hannah’s sister-in-law and the company representative for Boomn, the digital marketing agency discussed in the case. In addition, secondary research on the USA retail industry was performed by the author. The case was class-tested four times by the author, with Hannah Franzen and Mallory Franzen initially visiting as case protagonists. This resulted in the case of refinements based on student discussion.

Case overview/synopsis

Towny: A new business model for a mobile economy shares the context and issues surrounding CEO Nathan Baumeister in the spring of 2018 at Towny, a unique business helping local businesses connect with their consumers over mobile devices. The company began going to market based on the vision of its owner and Nathan’s boss, Don Shafer. It had quickly approached local business clients and consumers in five key markets. The purpose of the case is to allow students the opportunity to discuss key new venture creation concepts and scenarios such as customer value proposition, competitive advantage and digital marketing.

Complexity academic level

This case was developed to be used in an undergraduate course in entrepreneurship. The particular course, new venture finance: the entrepreneur’s perspective, teaches the general subject of entrepreneurial finance through financial models such as free cash flow and valuation, case discussions with entrepreneurs visiting as facilitators and protagonists and business concept planning and forecasting. This case helps train students on how to incorporate online marketing costs into their business concept plans. Relevant courses and topics also include small business management and entrepreneurial financial management.
Inclusion of Oxford Nanopore long reads improves all microbial and viral metagenome‐assembled genomes from a complex aquifer system
Authors: Overholt Will A. , Hölzer Martin , Geesink Patricia , Diezel Celia , Marz Manja , Küsel Kirsten
Published: August 2020

Assembling microbial and viral genomes from metagenomes is a powerful and appealing method to understand structure–function relationships in complex environments. To compare the recovery of genomes from microorganisms and their viruses from groundwater, we generated shotgun metagenomes with Illumina sequencing accompanied by long reads derived from the Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) sequencing platform. Assembly and metagenome‐assembled genome (MAG) metrics for both microbes and viruses were determined from an Illumina‐only assembly, ONT‐only assembly, and a hybrid assembly approach. The hybrid approach recovered 2× more mid to high‐quality MAGs compared to the Illumina‐only approach and 4× more than the ONT‐only approach. A similar number of viral genomes were reconstructed using the hybrid and ONT methods, and both recovered nearly fourfold more viral genomes than the Illumina‐only approach. While yielding fewer MAGs, the ONT‐only approach generated MAGs with a high probability of containing rRNA genes, 3× higher than either of the other methods. Of the shared MAGs recovered from each method, the ONT‐only approach generated the longest and least fragmented MAGs, while the hybrid approach yielded the most complete. This work provides quantitative data to inform a cost–benefit analysis of the decision to supplement shotgun metagenomic projects with long reads towards the goal of recovering genomes from environmentally abundant groups.
Expression and functional characterization of odorant‐binding protein genes in the endoparasitic wasp Cotesia vestalis
Authors: Zhou Yue‐Nan , Xie Shuang , Chen Jia‐Ni , Wang Ze‐Hua , Yang Pei , Zhou Si‐Cong , Pang Lan , Li Fei , Shi Min , Huang Jian‐Hua , Chen Xue‐Xin
Published: August 2020

Odorant‐binding proteins (OBPs) are crucial in insect's olfactory perception, which participate in the initial step of odorant molecules transporting from the external environment to olfactory receptor neurons. To better understand the roles for OBPs in olfactory perception in Cotesia vestalis, a solitary larval endoparasitoid of diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella, we have comprehensively screened the genome of C. vestalis, and obtained 20 CvesOBPs, including 18 classic OBPs and two minus‐C OBPs. Motif‐pattern analysis indicates that the motifs of C. vestalis OBPs are highly conserved in Hymenoptera. The results of tissue expression analysis show that five OBPs (CvesOBP1/11/12/14/16) are highly expressed in male antennae, whereas six other OBP genes (CvesOBP7/8/13/17/18/19) are significantly transcriptionally enriched in female antennae. The results of RNA interference experiments for three most highly expressed OBP genes (CvesOBP17/18/19) in female antennae demonstrate that they are likely involved in parasitic processes of female wasps, as the wasps take a longer time to target the hosts when they are knocked down.
Relationship between serrated polyps and synchronous and metachronous advanced neoplasia: A retrospective study
Authors: Tao En‐Wei , Wang Yong Feng , Zou Tian Hui , Cui Yun , Chen Ying Xuan , Gao Qin Yan
Published: August 2020

Objective

Serrated polyps (SP) are regarded as precursor lesions of colorectal cancer (CRC). We conducted this single‐center study aiming to investigate the relationship between SP and synchronous and metachronous advanced neoplasia in the Chinese population.

Methods

The data for this retrospective study were collected from the Endoscopy Center and Department of Gastroenterology of Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University between May 2012 and May 2019. Altogether 2205 patients were pathologically confirmed with colorectal SP.

Results

The detection rate of SP among all polyps has gradually increased since 2014 and reached 8.74% by 2019. Among all the SP cases, 1540 (69.84%) were confirmed as having hyperplasic polyps (HP), 486 (22.04%) were having sessile serrated lesions (SSL), and 171 (7.76%) had traditional serrated adenomas (TSA). Compared with HP (2.14%), SSL and TSA were larger and more likely to be accompanied by synchronous and metachronous advanced neoplasia (6.79% and 6.08%). We next found that large SP (diameter ≥10 mm) (odds ratio [OR] 2.52, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.40‐4.55, P = 0.002) and SSL with high‐grade intraepithelial neoplasia (OR 13.85, 95% CI 3.28‐58.56, P < 0.001) were associated with an increased risk of synchronous advanced neoplasia. However, we failed to find a relationship between SP and metachronous advanced neoplasia because few patients had developed metachronous advanced neoplasia.

Conclusion

Large SP and SSL with high‐grade intraepithelial neoplasia are associated with synchronous advanced neoplasia and require timely surveillance.
Unraveling the role of cigarette use in neural cannabis cue reactivity in heavy cannabis users
Authors: Kuhns Lauren , Kroon Emese , Filbey Francesca , Cousijn Janna
Published: August 2020

Cue reactivity is an important biomarker of cannabis use disorder (CUD). Despite high rates of cigarette and cannabis co‐use, its role in cannabis cue reactivity remains unclear. Using a visual functional magnetic resonance imaging cue reactivity paradigm, we investigated interactive effects of cannabis and cigarette use on cannabis cue relative to cigarette and neutral cue reactivity in a priori regions of interest—the amygdala, striatum, anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), ventral tegmental area (VTA), and orbitofrontal cortex—and a whole‐brain analysis. In our sample of cannabis users and controls closely matched on cigarette use, significant interactions between cannabis and cigarette use status emerged in the amygdala, striatum, ACC, frontal pole, and inferior frontal gyrus. Cannabis‐only users showed heightened cue reactivity in the amygdala compared with nonusing controls. Co‐users did not show heightened cue reactivity compared with cigarette smoking controls, although cue‐induced VTA activity was positively correlated with grams per week of cannabis. Cigarette smoking controls showed unexpectedly heightened cue reactivity compared to co‐users and nonsmoking controls. These findings and the high prevalence of cannabis and cigarette co‐use underscore the importance of considering cigarette smoking status when investigating the role of cue reactivity in heavy cannabis use.
Susceptibility of the bird cherry‐oat aphid, Rhopalosiphum padi (Hemiptera: Aphididae), to four insecticides
Authors: Umina Paul A , Reidy‐Crofts Jenny , Babineau Marielle , Maino James L , Edwards Owain R
Published: August 2020

The bird‐cherry oat aphid (Rhopalosiphum padi) is a global pest, attacking most cereal crops including barley, wheat, oats and triticale. The aphids cause yield losses through direct feeding damage and the transmission of plant viruses. In Australia, feeding injury can reduce cereal yields by 6%, with the damage caused by aphid‐vectored viruses reducing the yield of cereal crops by up to 30%. Aphid control in these crops is achieved almost exclusively with insecticides, and there is growing concern surrounding insecticide resistance evolution in multiple aphid species. In this study, nine field populations of R. padi were collected from localities representing the major grain growing regions of Australia. Toxicity data against four insecticides (dimethoate, alpha‐cypermethrin, pirimicarb and imidacloprid) was generated for each aphid population. This revealed little differences in population responses for three of these insecticides. For alpha‐cypermethrin, a widely used insecticide in Australia, there were significant differences between several populations. These data will be important for future monitoring of insecticide responses of R. padi and highlight the impending pest management challenges growers could encounter in Australia.
Genomics to accelerate genetic improvement in tilapia
Authors: Yáñez J. M. , Joshi R. , Yoshida G. M.
Published: August 2020

Selective breeding of tilapia populations started in the early 1990s and over the past three decades tilapia has become one of the most important farmed freshwater species, being produced in more than 125 countries around the globe. Although genome assemblies have been available since 2011, most of the tilapia industry still depends on classical selection techniques using mass spawning or pedigree information to select for growth traits with reported genetic gains of up to 20% per generation. The involvement of international breeding companies and research institutions has resulted in the rapid development and application of genomic resources in the last few years. GWAS and genomic selection are expected to contribute to uncovering the genetic variants involved in economically relevant traits and increasing the genetic gain in selective breeding programs, respectively. Developments over the next few years will probably focus on achieving a deep understanding of genetic architecture of complex traits, as well as accelerating genetic progress in the selection for growth‐, quality‐ and robustness‐related traits. Novel phenotyping technologies (i.e. phenomics), lower‐cost whole‐genome sequencing approaches, functional genomics and gene editing tools will be crucial in future developments for the improvement of tilapia aquaculture.
A three‐dimensional pelvimetric assessment on pelvic cavity of gazelle (Gazella subgutturosa) by computed tomography
Authors: Demircioglu Ismail , Yilmaz Bestami , Gündemir Ozan , Dayan Mustafa Orhun
Published: August 2020

The gazelles (Gazella subgutturosa), which are at the risk of extinction and are legally protected, have a cultural and aesthetic value in Turkey. It becomes incredibly important to increase their numbers in order to ensure their survival. In this context, it is required to examine thoroughly the pelvic cavity which contains reproductive organs and is used as the birth canal, as well. This study was conducted to determine the pelvimetric data of the gazelles by scanning their pelvic cavity via a multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) and preparing three‐dimensional models of the pelvic cavity. Twelve adult (6 females, 6 males) gazelle carcasses were used in the study. After the pelvic cavity was scanned using the MDCT device with 64 detectors at 80 kV, 200 mA, 639 mGY and 0.625 mm cross‐section thickness, the MDCT images were obtained. The three‐dimensional models of the images obtained using MIMICS 20.1 (The Materialise Group, Leuven, Belgium) program were prepared. Pelvimetric measurements of the pelvic cavity were taken using these models. It was determined based on the pelvimetric examinations that there was a significant difference between the female and male gazelles in terms of conjugate diameter, vertical diameter, intermediate traversal diameter, and cranial and medial transverse diameter data at p < .05. Also, there was a significant difference in their data related to caudal transverse diameter and ischial arch at p < .01. Consequently, it is thought that the use of pelvimetric values belonging to the pelvic cavity of gazelles would reveal the sexual dimorphism of the species and its differences with other species and would contribute to clinical sciences.
Specific inflammatory profile in each pregnancy complication: A comparative study
Authors: Brien Marie‐Eve , Boufaied Ines , Bernard Nathalie , Forest Jean‐Claude , Giguere Yves , Girard Sylvie
Published: August 2020

Problem

Pre‐eclampsia (PE), preterm birth (PTB) and intra‐uterine growth restriction (IUGR) affect 5%‐12% of pregnancies. They have been associated with placental inflammation, although the detection of inflammatory mediators in the maternal circulation is still controversial. Our goal was to determine the inflammatory changes occurring in the second part of pregnancy to identify profiles distinguishing pathological pregnancies from each other.

Method of Study

We performed a nested case‐control study of 200 women randomly selected from a cohort recruited at the CHU de Quebec‐Universite Laval, Quebec, Canada. Women with uncomplicated term pregnancy (CTRL); PE (severe or not); PTB or IUGR (N = 50/each) were included. Plasma samples, obtained from the late second trimester and at delivery, were analysed for over 30 selected mediators (including cytokines/alarmins), by multiplex, ELISA or specific assays. Demographic and obstetrical information were obtained for classification.

Results

In CTRL, we observed significant differences between 2nd trimester and delivery, with increased levels of inflammatory mediators (ex. MCP‐1, IL‐6), supporting an inflammatory profile towards term. Increased levels of IL‐6, CXCL10 and CRP were observed in PE as compared to CTRL. In PTB, we observed increased CXCL9 in 2nd trimester and decreased progesterone at delivery. In IUGR, increased HMGB1 and IL‐1α were observed only in the 2nd trimester.

Conclusions

Our work showed significant inflammatory changes in uncomplicated pregnancies towards delivery, supporting that normal delivery is pro‐inflammatory, although not to the same extent as in pathological pregnancies. Inflammatory profiles are specific to each pregnancy complication which may help to understand the contribution of inflammation to the clinical presentation of these conditions.
Diagnostic workup including CD203c‐based basophil activation test in immediate hypersensitivity due to metronidazole and ornidazole and evaluation of cross‐reactivity in between
Authors: Beyaz Şengül , Akdeniz Nilgün , Yılmaz Abdullah , Demir Semra , Öztop Nida , Çolakoğlu Bahauddin , Büyüköztürk Suna , Deniz Günnur , Gelincik Aslı
Published: August 2020

Background

Little is known about the diagnostic approaches for immediate hypersensitivity reactions (IHRs) due to 5‐nitroimidazole antibiotics. The aim was to evaluate the usefulness of in vivo tests and basophil activation test (BAT) for the diagnosis of IHRs due to metronidazole and ornidazole and to determine possible cross‐reactivity in between.

Methods

Forty‐nine patients with a clear history of IHRs due to these drugs and 20 healthy subjects who were known to tolerate these drugs were included. Skin tests (STs) and single‐blind placebo‐controlled drug provocation tests (SBPCDPTs) were performed with both drugs whereas BAT was applied only with the culprit drug.

Results

The most and least common reaction types were urticaria/angioedema (34.7%) and anaphylaxis (14.3%), respectively. SBPCDPTs were positive in 15 out of 47 patients, and only 7 had positive STs. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of STs for metronidazole/ornidazole were 33.3%/16.6%, 94.2%/97.3%, 60%/50%, and 84.6%/88.1%, respectively. BAT was positive in 12 out of 15 patients and negative in 10 control subjects, giving a sensitivity rate of 71.4% (CI, 29.0%‐96.3%) for metronidazole and 83.3% (CI, 35.8%‐99.5%) for ornidazole. The optimal concentration of both drugs for BAT was determined as 5 mg/mL. No cross‐reactivity among two drugs was observed according to in vivo tests.

Conclusions

Our study showed that SBPCDPT and BAT are both useful diagnostic tools for IHRs due to 5‐nitroimidazole antibiotics and can be used as supplementary to each other. No cross‐reactivity between metronidazole and ornidazole in IHRs exists.
The effect of trimodal prehabilitation on the physical and psychological health of patients undergoing colorectal surgery: a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Fulop A. , Lakatos L. , Susztak N. , Szijarto A. , Banky B.
Published: August 2020

Prehabilitation aims to increase the endurance capacity of patients who are awaiting major surgery. However, there are no studies investigating the implementation of this demanding and expensive intervention in low‐income countries. This study aimed to assess the impact of a 4‐week trimodal prehabilitation program on the physical and psychological health of patients waiting for colorectal surgery compared with a control group managed according to enhanced recovery after surgery principles supplemented by nutritional care. This study was a single‐centre, randomised controlled trial. The primary outcome measures for the physical aspects were 6‐minute walking distance (6MWD) and incentive spirometry, whereas the psychological elements were measured using the 36‐item short form survey questionnaire and the hospital anxiety and depression score. In total, data from 149 patients were analysed (77 in the prehabilitation group and 72 in the control group). At the time of surgery, patients in the prehabilitation group had improved 6MWD and incentive spirometry compared with the control group (median (IQR [range]) percentage improvement 131% (112–173 [68–376]) vs. 107% (99–120 [63–163]); p < 0.001 and 113% (100–125 [75–200]) vs. 100% (100–112 [86–167]); p < 0.001 respectively). Patients in the prehabilitation group also had reduced anxiety scores compared with the control group (mean (SD) anxiety score (4 (3) vs. 5 (3) respectively; p = 0.032). However, these effects did not translate into improvements in postoperative mortality and morbidity, or a reduction in duration of hospital stay. Trimodal (physical, emotional and nutritional) prehabilitation is able to improve functional status as well as some parameters of emotional and physical well‐being of patients waiting for colorectal surgery.
Inadequate left ventricular unloading during ramp is associated with hospitalization or death during left ventricular assist device support
Authors: Rosenbaum Andrew N. , Stulak John M. , Clavell Alfredo L. , Behfar Atta
Published: August 2020

A combined right and left‐sided heart catheterization (RHC/LHC) protocol was recently reported to optimize patients supported by left ventricular assist device (LVAD). Using this platform, we sought to evaluate the prognostic significance of several hemodynamic indices, including left ventricular end‐diastolic pressure (LVEDP) and transaortic gradient (peak aortic pressure ‐ peak left ventricular pressure in systole, TAG). We evaluated all patients undergoing RHC/LHC at our institution from 2015 through 2018, and comprehensive clinical data were obtained. Primary end points were (1) a composite outcome that included hospitalization or death and (2) 1‐year overall survival after catheterization. Forty‐two patients were included in the analysis. Optimization resulted in normalization of hemodynamic parameters; all variables were significantly improved from baseline (P ≤ .05). On univariate modeling, final LVEDP was associated with the primary end point (hazard ratio [HR], 1.2 per 1‐mm Hg increase; 95% CI, 1.1‐1.3; P = .002). After adjusting for LVAD speed, TAG, and cardiac index in a multivariate model, the association between LVEDP and the composite end point remained significant (HR, 1.2 per 1‐mm Hg increase; 95% CI, 1.1‐1.4; P = .001). In the setting of LVAD support, inadequate LV unloading was a significant marker of poor outcomes with time, suggesting that LVEDP is a central prognostic marker in this population.
Novel peptides with HIV‐1 reverse transcriptase inhibitory activity derived from the fruits of Quercus infectoria
Authors: Seetaha Supaphorn , Hannongbua Supa , Rattanasrisomporn Jatuporn , Choowongkomon Kiattawee
Published: August 2020

The HIV‐1 reverse transcriptase (HIV‐1 RT), which is responsible for transcription of viral RNA genomes into DNA genomes, has become an important target for the treatment of patients with HIV infection. Hydrolyzed peptides from plants are considered a new source of potential drugs. In order to develop new effective inhibitors, peptides extracted from 111 Asian medicinal plants were screened against the HIV‐1 RT. The crude hydrolyzed peptides from the fruit peel of Quercus infectoria were selected for purification and peptide sequence determination by HPLC and LC‐MS. Two peptides of interest were synthesized, and an IC50 test was performed to determine their ability to inhibit the HIV‐1 RT. The IC50 values of the peptides AIHIILI and LIAVSTNIIFIVV were determined to be 274 ± 5.10 nm and 236.4 ± 7.07 nm, respectively. This indicated that these peptides could be further developed as potential HIV‐1 RT inhibitors.
APPEAL‐2: A pan‐European qualitative study to explore the burden of peanut‐allergic children, teenagers and their caregivers
Authors: DunnGalvin Audrey , Gallop Katy , Acaster Sarah , Timmermans Frans , Regent Lynne , Schnadt Sabine , Podestà Marcia , Sánchez Angel , Ryan Robert , Couratier Pascale , Feeney Mary , Hjorth Betina , Fisher Helen R. , Blumchen Katharina , Vereda Andrea , Fernández‐Rivas Montserrat
Published: August 2020

Background

Allergy to Peanuts ImPacting Emotions And Life (APPEAL‐1) was a recent European multi‐country questionnaire survey that highlighted the negative impacts of peanut allergy (PA) on quality of life. A follow‐on qualitative study, APPEAL‐2, further assessed the burden of PA and associated coping strategies through semi‐structured interviews.

Objective

To gain qualitative insight on the strategies used to cope with and manage PA and the impact of these strategies on the quality of life of children, teenagers and caregivers.

Methods

This cross‐sectional qualitative study was conducted in eight European countries: the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Ireland, Spain, Italy, Denmark and the Netherlands. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with children (aged 8‐12 years) and teenagers (aged 13‐17 years) with self‐/proxy‐reported moderate or severe PA and with parents/caregivers of children or teenagers (aged 4‐17 years) with moderate or severe PA. Data were analysed using thematic analysis; data saturation was assessed. Two conceptual models were developed to illustrate the impacts of PA and coping strategies used to manage them for (a) individuals with PA and (b) parents/caregivers of children with PA.

Results

107 participants were interviewed: 24 children, 39 teenagers and 44 caregivers. The conceptual models illustrated themes related to coping and control, driven by the fear of PA reactions, and the associated emotional, social, relationship and work impacts. Factors moderating these impacts included social attitudes and support, child‐caregiver relationship and coping strategies used.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

The APPEAL‐2 results substantiate the findings of APPEAL‐1; the results also suggest that the severity of experience with PA may not correlate with perception of its overall burden and show variable impacts by country.
Narcolepsy with cataplexy: Does age at diagnosis change the clinical picture?
Authors: Zhang Min , Inocente Clara Odilia , Villanueva Carine , Lecendreux Michel , Dauvilliers Yves , Lin Jian‐Sheng , Arnulf Isabelle , Gustin Marie‐Paule , Thieux Marine , Franco Patricia
Published: August 2020

Objective

To compare symptoms and sleep characteristics in patients diagnosed with narcolepsy‐cataplexy (NC) before and after the age of 18 years.

Methods

De novo patients with NC diagnosis completed a standardized questionnaire and interview, followed by a sleep study. The clinical and sleep measures were compared between patients diagnosed before (46 children, median age: 12 year old) and after (46 adults, median age: 28.5 year old) 18 years of age.

Results

The frequency of obesity (54% vs 17%), night eating (29% vs 7%), parasomnia (89% vs 43%), sleep talking (80% vs 34%), and sleep drunkenness (69% vs 24%) were higher in children than in adults, the frequency of sleep paralysis was lower (20% vs 55%) but the frequency of cataplexy and the severity of sleepiness were not different. Children scored higher than adults at the attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) scale. Depressive feelings affected not differently children (24%) and adults (32%). However, adults had lower quality of life than children. There was no difference between groups for insomnia and fatigue scores. Quality of life was essentially impacted by depressive feelings in both children and adults. Obstructive apnea‐hypopnea index (OAHI) was lower in children with higher mean and minimal oxygen saturation than in adults. No between‐group differences were found at the multiple sleep latency test. The body mass index (z‐score) was correlated with OAHI (r = .32).

Conclusion

At time of NC diagnosis, children have more frequent obesity, night eating, parasomnia, sleep talking, drunkenness, and ADHD symptoms than adults, even if sleepiness and cataplexy do not differ. These differences should be considered to ensure a prompt diagnosis.
C1orf109L binding DHX9 promotes DNA damage depended on the R‐loop accumulation and enhances camptothecin chemosensitivity
Authors: Dou Peng , Li Yiqun , Sun Haoxiu , Xie Wanqiu , Zhang Xiaoqing , Zhang Xiaohan , Zhang Dandan , Qiao Shupei , Ci Yanpeng , Nie Huan , Han Fang , Li Yu
Published: August 2020

Objectives

R‐loop is a three‐stranded nucleic acid structure of RNA/DNA hybrid, which occurs naturally during transcription, and more R‐loop accumulation can trigger serious DNA damage. There has been increasing attention to the issue of R‐loop accumulation acted as a target for cancer therapy. However, the regulation of R‐loop‐associated proteins is poorly explored.

Material and method

Quantitative real‐time PCR and Western blot were used to measure the expression of C1orf109 in cell lines. In addition, C1orf109L (C1orf109 longest isoform) protein binding partner was identified and validated using immunoprecipitation‐mass spectrometric (IP‐MS) and immunoprecipitation assays. DNA‐RNA immunoprecipitation (DR‐IP) and immunofluorescence determined the C1orf109L location on R‐loop. R‐loop accumulation was determined by immunofluorescence. Cell cycle was determined by flow cytometry. Finally, time‐lapse assay and cell counting were conducted to determined cell survival in response to camptothecin (CPT).

Results

We found that C1orf109L could mediate cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase and DNA damage depended on R‐loop accumulation. Meanwhile, C1orf109L could bind with DHX9 to trigger R‐loop accumulation. And C1orf109L was competitive with PARP1 binding to DHX9, which would block the function of DHX9‐PARP1 to prevent the R‐loop accumulation. Furthermore, C1orf109L could enhance the chemosensitivity of CPT, a chemotherapeutic drug capable of promoting R‐loop formation.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrate that C1orf109L triggers R‐loop accumulation and DNA damage to arrest cell cycle.
Risk factors of unfavorable outcomes in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients treated with noninvasive ventilation for acute hypercapnic respiratory failure
Authors: Gungor Sinem , Mocin Ozlem Yazicioglu , Tuncay Eylem , Aksoy Emine , Goksenoglu Nezihe Ciftaslan , Ocakli Birsen , Irmak Ilim , Salturk Cuneyt , Adiguzel Nalan , Karakurt Zuhal
Published: August 2020

Background‐Aim

Noninvasive mechanical ventilation (NIV) failure rate is reported to be 5%‐60% of intensive care unit (ICU) patients. Despite all precautions and well‐known reasons, the risk factors of NIV failure are unclear for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) with acute respiratory failure (ARF). The aim of this study was to examine risk factors for NIV failure in COPD patients with ARF, other than well defined.

Methods

The retrospective cohort study was done in ICU of a chest disease hospital. All consecutive COPD patients with hypercapnic ARF were enrolled in study. Demographics, comorbidities, arterial blood gases, reasons of ARF and length of ICU stay were recorded. NIV success was defined as discharge from ICU and NIV failure was defined as need for intubation or died during NIV. Patients were grouped into; NIV failure and success. The groups were compared and NIV failure risk factors were analyzed.

Results

About 265 NIV success and 142 NIV failure patients were enrolled into the study. Logistic regression test showed the risk factors for NIV failure; higher APACHE‐II (≥ 29) (OR:11.71, CI95%4.39‐31.18,P < 0.001), culture positivity (OR:7.59, CI95%3.21‐17.92,P < 0.001), sepsis (OR:6.53 CI95%3.59‐11.85,P < 0.001) and pneumonia (OR:3.71 CI95%0.60‐2.02,P < 0.043) significantly. COPD patients using home‐based NIV had less risk for NIV failure (OR: 0.49 CI95%0.28‐0.87,P < 0.014).

Conclusions

APACHE II ≥ 29 score, culture positivity, sepsis and pneumonia are the risk factors for NIV failure in COPD patients with ARF. COPD patients previously on home‐based NIV showed half times less risk for NIV failure.