bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corporate social responsibility in marketing: a review of the state-of-the-art literature
Authors: Chakraborty Anirban , Jha Ankur
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to understand the evolution of the state-of-the-art of corporate social responsibility (CSR) research in the domain of marketing.

Design/methodology/approach

The top-ranked journals in the domain of marketing have been chosen for the purpose of this study, and the papers related to CSR concept published in those journals between 1930 and 2018 have been reviewed. A lucid framework has been used to structure the reviewing process.

Findings

The study finds that the CSR concept in marketing context has become more complex, its dimensions have evolved and increased in number, affecting diverse stakeholders leading to different outcomes.

Research limitations/implications

A simple model is proposed to understand the amalgamation of CSR concept in marketing literature. The study also highlights extant gaps in the literature and suggests the directions for future research.

Practical implications

The notion of CSR goes beyond the economic and regulatory obligation of the firm. Hence, for it to be duly implemented, practitioners must have a holistic understanding of this multi-faceted construct. This paper examines the changing role of CSR in the context of marketing over a period of almost a century. It thereby helps marketers to understand and visualize their changing responsibility toward the society at large and thereby co-create a sustainable relationship with all the stakeholders. The study provides both tactical and strategic pointers to practitioners.

Social implications

The study draws upon extant literature and documents the positive impact of CSR on marketing variables and thereby gives a compelling reason to the marketers to be socially responsible. Compilation of persuasive evidence would encourage the adoption of CSR concepts by the marketers. This would elicit a more socially responsible action which will have a positive impact on the society that the marketer serves.

Originality/value

This is an in-depth study depicting the journey of CSR construct in marketing literature and provides a holistic understanding of the construct in the context of marketing.
New state standards of higher education for training of digital personnel in the conditions of Industry 4.0
Authors: Gerasimova Elena B. , Kurashova Anna A. , Tipalina Mariya V. , Bulatenko Mariya V. , Tarasova Nataliya V.
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop new state standards of higher education for training digital personnel in the conditions of Industry 4.0 by the example of modern Russia.

Design/methodology/approach

An overview and a critical analysis of the expert and analytical report of the research institute “Higher School of Economics” on the results of digital modernization of the modern Russian economy entitled “Indicators of the digital economy” in the part “Human resources of the digital economy” is performed.

Findings

It is proved that formation of the personnel infrastructure for digital modernization of economy requires standardization of the process of training of digital personnel. The new state standards of higher education for training digital personnel in the conditions of Industry 4.0 by the example of modern Russia are created on the basis of the existing directions of the master’s program.

Originality/value

An authors’ classification of digital personnel according to the criterion of performed functions for application of digital technologies is offered, and two categories of them are distinguished: technical specialists and narrow sectorial specialists – which allowed specifying the scientific and methodological provision of the process of training and statistical accounting of digital personnel in Russia. The authors determine the perspective directions of training of digital personnel within the directions of the master’s program, which are implemented in modern Russia, and the corresponding categories of digital personnel. The authors also offer additional requirements to the results of mastering of the main educational programs of the master’s program, the structure of the main educational programs of the master’s program and the conditions of implementation of the main educational programs of training of masters within training of digital personnel. The authors’ conclusions and recommendations ensure the information support for training of digital personnel of modern Russian universities, as well as monitoring and control of this process of state regulators.
Destabilizing momentum trading and counterbalancing contrarian strategy by large trader groups
Authors: Cho Jang Hyung , Daigler Robert , Ki YoungHa , Zaima Janis
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess trading strategies adopted by each large trader group and examine their effects on the volatility in the interest rate futures markets.

Design/methodology/approach

The Grinblatt et al.'s (1995) measure of momentum strategy is used to estimate the degree momentum and contrarian strategies. Then, regression analysis is used to determine the effects of trading strategies on volatility.

Findings

Up until 2005, the trades by non-clearing member firms in the futures market were separated from institutional traders providing us the opportunity to study trading strategies adopted by large distinct trading groups and its effects on volatility in the futures markets. It is found that individual traders use momentum strategy, whereas market makers and institutional traders use contrarian strategy. Momentum strategy adopted by individual traders increases volatility whereas contrarian strategy dampens volatility. Moreover, it is found that institutional traders engage more actively in contrarian trading when individual traders cause excessive volatility. The two distinct trading groups were separately tracked prior to 2005 giving us a unique window to determine the effect of the traders that conduct momentum trading as opposed to the ones that are contrarian traders. After the reclassification, the institutional trading group exhibited weaker contrarian strategy which can be attributed to the inclusion of non-clearing firm traders.

Originality/value

This study documents the first empirical evidence that shows off-exchange futures trader group is not composed of only pure noise makers, but there are short-term forecasters in its group. The authors also show a unique finding that noises caused by off-exchange group is from momentum strategy that they use, whereas contrarian strategy is used by institutional trader lower volatility.
Multilevel modeling for longitudinal data: concepts and applications
Authors: Hair Jr. Joseph F. , Fávero Luiz Paulo
Published: October 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to discuss multilevel modeling for longitudinal data, clarifying the circumstances in which they can be used.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors estimate three-level models with repeated measures, offering conditions for their correct interpretation.

Findings

From the concepts and techniques presented, the authors can propose models, in which it is possible to identify the fixed and random effects on the dependent variable, understand the variance decomposition of multilevel random effects, test alternative covariance structures to account for heteroskedasticity and calculate and interpret the intraclass correlations of each analysis level.

Originality/value

Understanding how nested data structures and data with repeated measures work enables researchers and managers to define several types of constructs from which multilevel models can be used.
Ageing in organizations
Authors: Tonelli Maria Jose , Pereira Jussara , Cepellos Vanessa , Lins João
Published: October 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to show which factors influence the perception of human resources professionals about managers over 50 years old and which factors guide the age management practices adopted in the surveyed companies.

Design/methodology/approach

To this end, a survey was conducted with 140 companies accessed from a database of a human resources association. Through the answers obtained through the online questionnaire, an exploratory factor analysis was made with the aid of Software R.

Findings

Thus, it was possible to identify four factors that explain the work posture of professionals 50 years of age and older (company expectations, performance, morality and knowledge and professionalism) and three factors that guide the adoption of age management practices in organizations (recruitment & selection and integration, retention and continuity in the company, adaptation to the needs).

Originality/value

The results suggest that, even considering the high performance of older managers, perceived by HR professionals, the adoption of age management practices is still insufficient, making it difficult for these professionals to enter and remain in organizations. Moreover, it can be inferred that such posture indicates biases of discrimination and age stereotypes.
Satisfaction and attitudinal responses: indirect effects of involvement and reputation
Authors: Fernandes Aleixo , Brandao Marcelo Moll , Lopes Evandro Luiz , Quevedo-Silva Filipe
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the influence of the company’s reputation and individual consumer involvement in the relationship between satisfaction, loyalty and willingness to pay more for a product.

Design/methodology/approach

The method used is quantitative, by means of a survey with real consumers of automotive services of two vehicle dealerships, whose data were analyzed through linear regression analysis and conditional analysis of moderation.

Findings

The authors have identified that the relationship between satisfaction and loyalty and between loyalty and willingness to pay more for a product is entirely moderated by the (high) reputation of the brand and the (high) individual involvement of the consumer.

Practical implications

The study contributes to marketing managers as it demonstrates effect of brand reputation and involvement. Therefore, it is understood that these variables need to be considered in satisfaction surveys, as it has been proven that satisfaction alone cannot explain the variables of business performance (loyalty and willingness to pay).

Originality/value

The greatest innovation of this study is the identification of the total moderation between stated satisfaction and loyalty and between satisfaction and willingness to pay more. It has been demonstrated that high levels of brand reputation coupled with high levels of consumer involvement account for the fully dependent variables.
Parliament, print and the politics of disinformation, 1642–3
Authors: White William
Published: October 2019

This article explores the political uses of disinformation during the English civil war. It argues that forged and falsified publications formed part of a sophisticated propaganda strategy employed by the parliamentarian war party, aimed at discrediting Charles I during the first months of the conflict. It therefore offers an important corrective to traditional emphases on the anxieties that partisan print engendered. Furthermore, by showing that this strategy drew on both the practices and texts associated with early Stuart scribal opposition to Caroline rule, the article suggests an important link between pre-war manuscript culture and the print practices of the sixteen-forties.
Effects of Various Nonthermal Pretreatments on the Physicochemical Properties of Dried Ginger (Zingiber officinaleRoscoe) Slices from Two Geographical Locations
Authors: Osae Richard , Zhou Cunshan , Alolga Raphael N. , Xu Baoguo , Tchabo William , Bonah Ernest , Alenyorege Evans Adingba , Ma Haile
Published: October 2019

This study explored the effect of different nonthermal pretreatments, osmosonication (OS), osmotic dehydration, and ultrasound methods on the physical and chemical properties of China‐ and Ghana‐sourced ginger samples under relative humidity convective drying. The chemical properties of pretreated dried ginger slices were assessed for antioxidant properties (ABTS and DPPH); total phenolic content; total flavonoids content; and 4‐, 6‐, 8‐, and 10‐gingerol and 6‐shogaol levels. The physical properties compared were weight loss, rehydration ratio (RR), texture, and drying kinetics. Results revealed that OS pretreatment led to a higher preservation of the chemical properties with the Ghana‐sourced ginger exhibiting the highest values. The OS‐treated samples obtained the highest weight losses and RRs, but the RR was higher in the Chinese ginger. OS pretreatment also gave the lowest textural value with the China‐sourced samples exhibiting the lowest firmness. Weibull model best fitted the experimental results (R2> 0.99).

Practical Application

Ginger remains among the most notable medicinal spices worldwide. It is used as a raw material for the pharmaceutical, beverage, cosmetics, and the food industries. Long‐term storage of ginger is one of paramount importance, hence any pretreatment that reduces its moisture content and lessens its drying time but preserves its quality is ideal. In this study, we report the effect of different nonthermal pretreatments, osmosonication, osmotic dehydration, and ultrasound on the physical and chemical properties of China‐ and Ghana‐sourced ginger samples under relative humidity convective drying. The present findings will offer more information in the selection of the best pretreatment technique for drying ginger.
Do ANCA‐associated vasculitides and IgG4‐related disease really overlap or not?
Authors: Erden Abdulsamet , Bolek Ertugrul Cagri , Yardimci Kubra Gozde , Kilic Levent , Bilgen Sule Apras , Karadag Omer
Published: October 2019

Background

Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)‐associated vasculitis (AAV) and immunoglobulin G4‐related disease (IgG4‐RD) have some common features. The co‐occurrence/concurrence of AAV and IgG4‐RD was recently published by the collaborative European Vasculitis Study Group. First, we aimed to investigate ANCA positivity of our IgG4‐RD cohort. Second, a literature review of co‐occurrence/concurrence of AAV and IgG4‐RD was done.

Methods

Data of 62 patients with IgG4‐RD in Hacettepe Vasculitis Center Database were used. Patient dataset was designed to include demographic data, clinical characteristics, imaging and IgG4‐RD, AAV and ANCA test results. At the next step, we performed a systematic literature review in PUBMED database covering the time period from 1976 until April 2018. Relevant publications were searched using these MeSH terms ‘‘IgG4‐related disease and Anti‐Neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody‐Associated Vasculitis’’, “IgG4‐related disease and Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis”, “IgG4‐related disease and Microscopic Polyangiitis” and “IgG4‐related disease and Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis”.

Results

Three (10.3%) of 29 patients had low titer ANCA positivity. These three patients didn't have any findings of vasculitis and no granuloma was seen in biopsy. In the literature review, we found 17 cases had features of both IgG4‐RD and AAV. These cases were re‐evaluated according to the Comprehensive Diagnostic Criteria for IgG4‐RD. ANCA were positive in 15 of 17 patients (88%).

Conclusion

None of our IgG4‐RD patients overlapped with AAV. Only two patients in the literature review seemed to be fully compatible with both diseases. Even though AAV and IgG4‐RD share similar clinical features, we think this might be a co‐occurrence instead of a histopathological link.
Financial well‐being amongst elderly Australians: the role of consumption patterns and financial literacy
Authors: Xue Rui , Gepp Adrian , O'Neill Terry J. , Stern Steven , Vanstone Bruce J.
Published: October 2019

Consumption behaviour and financial literacy are primary factors in determining the financial well‐being of retirees. This paper uses an existing financial literacy index to examine how financial literacy directly, and via an interaction with consumption patterns, affects elderly Australians’ financial well‐being. We find that most elderly Australians hold an optimistic attitude towards their financial situation, and those who are relatively older, more educated, healthier and outright homeowners are more likely to report higher levels of financial well‐being. Financial literacy significantly improves financial well‐being. It also helps strengthen the positive effects of meeting more of non‐essential consumption needs on financial well‐being.
The role of genetics and epigenetics in the pathogenesis of gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Rosik Jakub , Szostak Bartosz , Machaj Filip , Pawlik Andrzej
Published: October 2019

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a heterogeneous group of disorders whose common trait is chronic hyperglycemia. Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is one of the subtypes of DM that manifests during pregnancy. It is believed that 2%–5% of pregnancies worldwide are complicated with GDM, with the prevalence having significantly increased over the last decade. While the pathogenesis of the disease remains largely unknown, GDM is believed to be a result of interactions between genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. Linkage and association studies, including those that are genome‐wide, have allowed us to identify complex genetic and epigenetic mechanisms that lead to the development of GDM. Multiple common variants in candidate genes such as potassium inwardly rectifying channel subfamily J, member 11 (KCNJ11), glucokinase (GCK), or hepatocyte nuclear factor 1α (HNF1A) have been found to increase the disease risk. In this review, we provide a detailed overview of the current knowledge concerning the influence of genetics and epigenetics on the development of GDM.
Shouldering Moral Responsibility: The Division of Moral Labor among Pregnant Women, Rabbis, and Doctors
Authors: Ivry Tsipy , Teman Elly
Published: October 2019

This article contributes to the anthropology of morality through an ethnographic focus on the consultations of religiously observant Jews with rabbis and medical specialists regarding dilemmas surrounding prenatal diagnosis of fetal anomalies. Our ethnography looks at religious couples who consult rabbinic authorities on their reproductive dilemmas rather than making autonomous decisions and the procedures of decision‐making that rabbis enact. We examine the rabbis’ emic practice of dividing moral labor and outsourcing it in a chain reaction to various medical and rabbinic experts. The purpose of outsourcing moral decisions and aggregating expert opinions is to lighten the heavy weight of moral responsibility for consultees as well as for the rabbinic consultants. In seeking expert consultations, people might actually be opting for liberation from freedom of choice—at least as defined in the model of autonomous decision‐making—rather than merely submitting to an authoritative doctrinarian power, whether of religion or biomedicine. [moral labor, religion, prenatal diagnosis, biomedicine, Orthodox Jews]
Screening acute cholangitis patients for sepsis
Authors: Beliaev Andrei M. , Zyul'korneeva Sof'ya , Rowbotham David , Bergin Colleen J.
Published: October 2019

Background

Acute cholangitis (AC) complicated by septic shock is associated with 40% mortality. The best screening method for diagnosing sepsis in patients with AC is unknown. In this study, we aimed to compare the discriminative powers of systemic inflammatory response syndrome criteria (SIRS test) and the 2018 Tokyo Guidelines for moderate cholangitis (TG18 test) in screening AC patients for sepsis and to estimate their predictive abilities.

Methods

This was a retrospective diagnostic accuracy study in which the TG18 and SIRS tests were applied to two groups of patients; 52 patients with 70 hospital admissions had AC with shock index ≥0.7 and 46 patients with 57 hospital admissions had AC with shock index <0.7, uncomplicated choledocholithiasis, obstructive jaundice and biliary stent removal.

Results

The sensitivity and specificity for the TG18 test in identifying AC patients with sepsis were 69% and 68%, respectively. The SIRS test applied to the same patient cohort yielded 93% sensitivity and 79% specificity. The SIRS test had a larger area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, 86% and 69%, respectively (P = 0.0004). With a sepsis prevalence of 23% in patients with biliary tract infections, the positive predictive value (PPV) for the SIRS test was 57% (95% confidence interval (CI) 44–69%) and the negative predictive value was 97% (95% CI 94–99%). The PPV and negative predictive value for the TG18 criteria were 39% (95% CI 30–50%) and 88% (95% CI 83–92%), respectively.

Conclusion

The SIRS test had better discriminative power in identifying AC patients with sepsis than the TG18 criteria, but had a low PPV.
Post‐operative complications in patients with a significant post‐operative decrease in γδT cells
Authors: Gryglewski Andrzej , Richter Piotr , Majewska‐Szczepanik Monika , Szczepanik Marian
Published: October 2019

Background

It has previously been shown that appropriate distribution of immune cells between different tissues and organs of the body is required for proper function of the immune system. Our previous work demonstrated that surgical trauma in mice induces γδT lymphocyte migration from peripheral blood to the peritoneal lymphoid organs. These described γδT cells have immunoregulatory activity as they suppress the cell‐mediated immune response in vitro. We found a similar phenomenon in patients after different surgical operations. In the current study, we analyse post‐operative complications in patients with a significant post‐operative decrease in γδT cells.

Methods

We investigated the percentage of γδT cells in peripheral blood of patients undergoing standard surgical procedures (gastric resection, colorectal resection, cholecystectomy and strumectomy) before and 3 days after the operation. The percentage of γδT cells was evaluated by the fluorescence‐activated cell sorting cytofluorimeter. Patients were grouped based on the decrease of γδT cells. We compared the number of septic complications in patients with a large and small decrease in γδT cells.

Results

After major surgery in the peritoneal cavity (gastric and colorectal surgery), in the group that had a large decrease in γδT cells we found significantly more septic complications than in the group of patients with small γδT decrease. That effect was not visible after less traumatic surgery.

Conclusion

Surgery results in a decreased percentage of γδT lymphocytes in the peripheral human blood which correlates with the number of septic complications. This observation may help to predict post‐operative recovery after gastroabdominal surgery.
Closing the survivorship gap in children and adolescents with Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Castellino Sharon M. , Parsons Susan K. , Kelly Kara M.
Published: October 2019

The treatment of Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) is one of early success. However, disease‐free survival (DFS) does not reflect latent organ injury and its impact on health status and well‐being beyond 5 years. In fact, we are at a crossroads, in terms of needing individualized approaches to maintain DFS, while minimizing late effects and preserving health‐related quality of life (HRQoL). Premature morbidity and mortality translate to a high societal cost associated with the potential number of productive life years ahead in this population who are young at diagnosis. The discordance between short‐term lymphoma‐free survival and long‐term health and HRQoL creates a “survivorship gap” which can be characterized for individuals and for subgroups of patients. The current review delineates contributors to compromised outcomes and health status in child and adolescent (paediatric) HL and frames the survivorship gap in terms of primary and secondary prevention. Primary prevention aims to titrate therapy. Secondary prevention entails strategies to intervene against late effects. Bridging the survivorship gap will be attained with enhanced knowledge of and attention to biology of the tumour and microenvironment, host genetic factors, HRQoL and sub‐populations with disparate outcomes.
Delaying haematopoietic stem cell transplantation in children with viral respiratory infections reduces transplant‐related mortality
Authors: Ottaviano Giorgio , Lucchini Giovanna , Breuer Judith , Furtado‐Silva Juliana M. , Lazareva Arina , Ciocarlie Oana , Elfeky Reem , Rao Kanchan , Amrolia Persis J. , Veys Paul , Chiesa Robert
Published: October 2019

Viral respiratory infections (VRIs) contribute to the morbidity and transplant‐related mortality (TRM) after allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) and strategies to prevent and treat VRIs are warranted. We monitored VRIs before and after transplant in children undergoing allogeneic HSCT with nasopharyngeal aspirates (NPA) and assessed the impact on clinical outcome. Between 2007 and 2017, 585 children underwent 620 allogeneic HSCT procedures. Out of 75 patients with a positive NPA screen (12%), transplant was delayed in 25 cases (33%), while 53 children started conditioning with a VRI. Patients undergoing HSCT with a positive NPA screen had a significantly lower overall survival (54% vs. 79%) and increased TRM (26% vs. 7%) compared to patients with a negative NPA. Patients with a positive NPA who delayed transplant and cleared the virus before conditioning had improved overall survival (90%) and lower TRM (5%). Pre‐HSCT positive NPA was the only significant risk factor for progression to a lower respiratory tract infection and was a major risk factor for TRM. Transplant delay, whenever feasible, in case of a positive NPA screen for VRIs can positively impact on survival of children undergoing HSCT.
The TATA‐binding Protein DNA‐binding domain of eukaryotic parasites is a potentially druggable target
Authors: Santiago Ángel , Razo‐Hernández Rodrigo Said , Pastor Nina
Published: October 2019

The TATA‐binding protein (TBP) is a central transcription factor in eukaryotes that interacts with a large number of different transcription factors; thus, affecting these interactions will be lethal for any living being. In this work, we present the first structural and dynamic computational study of the surface properties of the TBP DNA‐binding domain for a set of parasites involved in diseases of worldwide interest. The sequence and structural differences of these TBPs, as compared with human TBP, were proposed to select representative ensembles generated from molecular dynamics simulations and to evaluate their druggability by molecular ensemble‐based docking of drug‐like molecules. We found that potential druggable sites correspond to the NC2‐binding site, N‐terminal tail, H2 helix, and the interdomain region, with good selectivity for Plasmodium falciparum, Necator americanus, Entamoeba histolytica, Candida albicans, and Taenia solium TBPs. The best hit compounds share structural similarity among themselves and have predicted dissociation constants ranging from nM to μM. These can be proposed as initial scaffolds for experimental testing and further optimization. In light of the obtained results, we propose TBP as an attractive therapeutic target for treatment of parasitic diseases.
Hereditary angioedema: Looking for bradykinin production and triggers of vascular permeability
Authors: Margaglione Maurizio , D’Apolito Maria , Santocroce Rosa , Maffione Angela Bruna
Published: October 2019

Since the Osler's identification of the inherited nature of hereditary angioedema, a huge array of information was collected on pathogenetic mechanisms of the disease. Over the last years, information grew fast, and mutations in different genes, in addition to C1‐inhibitor, were found to be causative. All types are inherited as autosomal‐dominant traits with incomplete penetrance and little or no genotype‐phenotype correlation. As a result, the clinical expression is characterized by a large heterogeneity. The acknowledgement of mechanisms leading to heterogeneity of the clinical phenotype is likely to provide important information not only for a better understanding of the pathogenesis but also for therapy. Regardless of which gene is mutated, similar pathways seem to play a pivotal role, triggering the up‐regulation of contact activation system/kallikrein kinin system and giving rise to an unbalanced increase of bradykinin. However, notwithstanding the increase of bradykinin in bloodstream, the phenomenon is localized and no general vascular leakage and oedema is recognized. Thus, it is conceivable that there exist one or more localized factors that stimulate the production of bradykinin, which does not become a systemically event. Uncovering of these factors may shed lights on the missing part of the pathogenesis of hereditary angioedema. The present review, collecting information on pathogenesis from biochemical and genetics investigations, tries to provide a comprehensive view of the pathogenesis of hereditary angioedema. This can allow for a better understanding of the disease and lead to focused investigations that can further improve our knowledge.
Histamine‐induced plasticity and gene expression in corticostriatal pathway under hyperammonemia
Authors: Sergeeva Olga A. , Chepkova Aisa N. , Görg Boris , Rodrigues Almeida Filipe , Bidmon Hans‐Jürgen , Haas Helmut L. , Häussinger Dieter
Published: October 2019

Aims

Histamine H3 receptor (H3R) antagonists/inverse agonists increase vigilance. We studied brain histaminergic pathways under hyperammonemia and the transcriptome of receptors and their signaling cascades to provide a rationale for wake‐promoting therapies.

Methods

We analyzed histamine‐induced long‐lasting depression of corticostriatal synaptic transmission (LLDhist). As the expression of dopamine 1 receptors (D1R) is upregulated in LGS‐KO striatum where D1R‐H3R dimers may exist, we investigated actions of H3R and D1R agonists and antagonists. We analyzed transcription of selected genes in cortex and dorsal striatum in a mouse model of inborn hyperammonemia (liver‐specific glutamine synthetase knockout: LGS‐KO) and compared it with human hepatic encephalopathy.

Results

LGS‐KO mice showed significant reduction of the direct depression (DD) but not the long‐lasting depression (LLD) by histamine. Neither pharmacological activation nor inhibition of D1R significantly affected DDhist and LLDhist in WT striatum, while in LGS‐KO mice D1R activation suppressed LLDhist. Histaminergic signaling was found unchanged at the transcriptional level except for the H2R. A study of cAMP‐regulated genes indicated a significant reduction in the molecular signature of wakefulness in the diseased cortex.

Conclusions

Our findings provide a rationale for the development of aminergic wake‐promoting therapeutics in hyperammonemic disorders.
Natural history films raise species awareness—A big data approach
Authors: Fernández‐Bellon Darío , Kane Adam
Published: October 2019

In urbanized societies that are increasingly disconnected from nature, communicating ecological and species awareness is crucial to revert the global environmental crisis. However, our understanding of the effectiveness of this process is limited. We present a framework for describing how such awareness may be transferred and test it on the popular BBC show Planet Earth 2 by analyzing Twitter and Wikipedia big data activity. Despite lacking explicit conservation themes, this show generated species awareness, stimulating audience engagement for information at magnitudes comparable to those achieved by other conservation‐focused campaigns. Results suggest that natural history films can provide vicarious connections to nature and can generate durable shifts in audience awareness beyond the broadcast of the show—key factors for changing environmental attitudes. More broadly, this study underscores how open‐source big data analysis can inform effective dissemination of ecological awareness and provides a framework for future research for investigating behavioral change.
Translating Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery Devices
Authors: Lee Richard M.H. , Bouremel Yann , Eames Ian , Brocchini Steve , Khaw Peng Tee
Published: October 2019

Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness with over 70 million people affected worldwide. The surgical management of glaucoma aims to lower intraocular pressure by increasing aqueous outflow facility. The latest manufacturing techniques have allowed for the development of a number of novel implantable devices to improve safety and outcomes of glaucoma surgery. These are collectively referred to as minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) devices and are among the smallest devices implanted in the human body. This review discusses the design criterion and constraints as well as the user requirements for MIGS devices. We review how recent devices have attempted to meet these challenges and give our opinion as to the necessary characteristics for the development of future devices.
De‐centring the ‘White Gaze’ of Development
Authors: Pailey Robtel Neajai
Published: October 2019

In its crudest form, development has traditionally been about dissecting the political, socio‐economic and cultural processes of black, brown and other subjects of colour in the so‐called global South and finding them regressive, particularly in comparison to the so‐called progressive global North. However, in the midst of a 21st century, de‐colonial scholarly pivot, ‘opening up development’ fundamentally demands turning the colonial, ‘white gaze’ on its head. In particular, contemporary social media movements challenging white supremacy such as #BlackLivesMatter have gained prominence while non‐white development actors such as China have emerged as enticing alternatives. These phenomena have pried open development with both positive and negative results, intended and unintended consequences. This article seeks to put Critical Development Studies into fluid conversation with Critical Race Studies in an examination of how scholars, policy makers and practitioners have simultaneously succeeded and failed in subverting the ‘white gaze’ of development.
Combination of bisacodyl suppository and 1 L polyethylene glycol plus ascorbic acid is a non‐inferior and comfortable regimen compared to 2 L polyethylene glycol plus ascorbic acid
Authors: Kim Sun Hwa , Kim Eun Ran , Kim Kyunga , Kim Tae Jun , Hong Sung Noh , Chang Dong Kyung , Kim Young‐Ho
Published: October 2019

Background and Aim

Appropriate bowel cleansing before colonoscopy is an important factor in increasing the detection rate of lesions. Low‐volume polyethylene glycol (PEG) plus ascorbic acid (PEG‐Asc) reduces the dosage of bowel preparation agent, but still presents discomfort to patients. The primary aim of the present study was to compare the efficacy of bowel cleansing between 2 L PEG‐Asc (control) and 1 L PEG‐Asc with bisacodyl suppository (suppository) groups, and the secondary aim was to investigate complications and tolerability between the two groups.

Methods

This was a single‐center prospective randomized controlled study. We identified 168 patients scheduled for colonoscopy between August 2017 and January 2018 and randomly assigned them to the control or to the suppository groups. Efficacy of bowel cleansing was assessed using the Boston Bowel Preparation Scale (BBPS), and side‐effects were surveyed using questionnaires.

Results

No significant difference was detected in baseline characteristics including insertion and withdrawal times, and adenoma detection rates between the two groups. Total BBPS score was 7.93 ± 1.06 and 7.74 ± 1.02 in the control and suppository groups, respectively (P = 0.22). Incidence of abdominal pain and nausea was not statistically different, whereas that of sleep disturbance and anal discomfort was higher in the control group. (P = 0.00).

Conclusions

One liter PEG‐Asc with bisacodyl suppository resulted in an equivalent bowel‐cleansing outcome with reduced patient discomfort compared to 2 L PEG‐Asc. Therefore, PEG‐Asc with bisacodyl suppository represents a potential alternative and increases patient compliance with bowel preparation.
Nicotinamide N‐methyltransferase in nonmelanoma skin cancers
Authors: Pompei Veronica , Salvolini Eleonora , Rubini Corrado , Lucarini Guendalina , Molinelli Elisa , Brisigotti Valerio , Pozzi Valentina , Sartini Davide , Campanati Anna , Offidani Annamaria , Emanuelli Monica
Published: October 2019

Background

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and basal cell carcinoma (BCC) represent the most common forms of nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSCs). Although successful treatment of these neoplasms is based on surgical excision, an increasing number of BCCs relapses and many SCCs display high rates of recurrence and metastasis. Nicotinamide N‐methyltransferase (NNMT) is a cytosolic enzyme, which was found to be upregulated in different solid tumours. However, there are no data regarding enzyme expression in NMSCs. The aim of this study was therefore to evaluate the potential involvement of NNMT in BCCs and SCCs.

Materials and methods

Immunohistochemical analyses were carried out on 40 BCC cases and 39 SCC cases, to evaluate enzyme expression in tumour and surrounding healthy margins. Moreover, the relationship between NNMT intratumour levels and clinico‐pathological parameters were explored.

Results

Nicotinamide N‐methyltransferase was found to be overexpressed in BCCs compared with control tissues, while a significant enzyme downregulation was detected in SCCs with respect to corresponding healthy margins. In addition, NNMT levels were negatively related to aggressiveness of both BCCs (distinguishing between infiltrative and nodular tumours) and SCCs (considering head and neck forms and tumours of the extremities and trunk).

Conclusions

These evidences seem to demonstrate that the different NNMT dysregulation detected in BCC and SCC may be the result of important biological traits distinctively characterizing these two forms within NMSCs. In addition, enzyme levels seem to be inversely correlated with tumour aggressiveness, thus suggesting the potential suitability of the enzyme as a prognostic biomarker for both neoplasms.
Knowledge about nanotechnology and intention to use nanomaterials: A comparative study among dental students in Norway and Romania
Authors: Xenaki Victoria , Marthinussen Mihaela Cuida , Costea Daniela Elena , Didilescu Andreea Cristiana , Susin Cristiano , Cimpan Mihaela Roxana , Åstrøm Anne Nordrehaug
Published: October 2019

Background

The introduction of innovative nanotechnologies in medicine and dentistry may initiate a need for curriculum revision at the universities. The aim of this study was to assess dental students’ knowledge and attitudes related to nanotechnology. Covariates of students' intention to use nanomaterials in their future dental practice were evaluated using the theory of planned behaviour (TPB).

Methods

Dental students at Norwegian and Romanian Universities were invited to participate. A self‐administered structured questionnaire including socio‐demographics and Ajzen's TPB components was used.

Findings

A total of 212 out of 732 dental students participated in the survey: 52 Norwegian and 160 Romanian. Most students reported to have little knowledge about nanotechnology (Norwegians = 44.2% vs Romanians = 46.9%, P < .05). More than 90% of the students in both countries reported that they wanted to get more information about nanotechnology. Mean knowledge score was similar for Norwegian and Romanian students (4.4 ± 1.7 vs 4.2 ± 1.4, P > .05). Romanian students had more positive attitude, stronger subjective norms and stronger perceived behavioural control towards nanotechnology compared to their Norwegian counterparts. Intention to use nanomaterials in the total sample was most strongly influenced by attitude towards the use of dental nanomaterials (beta = 0.42, P < .001).

Conclusion

Dental students in Norway and Romania demonstrated limited knowledge about nanotechnology. Intention to use nanomaterials was primarily influenced by attitudes. A clear desire for more information about the application of nanotechnology in dentistry was expressed by the respondents indicating a need for curriculum modification.
Poor patient awareness and frequent misdiagnosis of migraine: findings from a large transcontinental cohort
Authors: Viana M. , Khaliq F. , Zecca C. , Figuerola M. D. L. , Sances G. , Di Piero V. , Petolicchio B. , Alessiani M. , Geppetti P. , Lupi C. , Benemei S. , Iannacchero R. , Maggioni F. , Jurno M. E. , Odobescu S. , Chiriac E. , Marfil A. , Brighina F. , Barrientos Uribe N. , Pérez Lago C. , Bordini C. , Lucchese F. , Maffey V. , Nappi G. , Sandrini G. , Tassorelli C.
Published: October 2019

Background and purpose

Although migraine is the second most disabling condition worldwide, there is poor awareness of it. The objective was to assess the awareness of migraine and previous diagnostic and therapeutic consultations and treatments in a large international population of migraineurs.

Methods

This was a multicentre study conducted in 12 headache centres in seven countries. Each centre recruited up to 100 patients referred for a first visit and diagnosed with migraine. Subjects were given a structured clinical questionnaire‐based interview about the perceptions of the type of headache they suffered from, its cause, previous diagnoses, investigations and treatments.

Results

In all, 1161 patients completed the study. Twenty‐eight per cent of participants were aware that they suffered from migraine. Sixty‐four per cent called their migraine ‘headache'; less commonly they used terms such as ‘cervical pain' (4%), tension headache (3%) and sinusitis (1%). Eight per cent of general practitioners and 35% of specialists (of whom 51% were neurologists and/or headache specialists) consulted for migraine formulated the correct diagnosis. Before participating in the study, 50% of patients had undergone X‐ray, computed tomography and/or magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine and 76% underwent brain and/or cervical spine imaging for migraine. Twenty‐eight per cent of patients had received symptomatic migraine‐specific medications and 29% at least one migraine preventive medication.

Conclusions

Although migraine is a very common disease, poor awareness of it amongst patients and physicians is still an issue in several countries. This highlights the importance of the promotion of migraine awareness to reduce its burden and limit direct and indirect costs and the risk of exposure to useless investigations.
Evoked potentials can predict future disability in people with clinically isolated syndrome
Authors: Crnošija L. , Gabelić T. , Barun B. , Adamec I. , Krbot Skorić M. , Habek M.
Published: October 2019

Background and purpose

The aim was to evaluate whether the addition of evoked potentials (EPs) which evaluate brainstem function to the EP score improves its ability to predict disease progression in people with clinically isolated syndrome (pwCIS).

Methods

For 94 pwCIS, data on disease activity and progression after 2.9 (1.4–4.1) years of follow‐up were available. Baseline characteristics included magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) parameters, visual EPs, auditory EPs, somatosensory EPs of the median and tibial nerves, vestibular evoked myogenic potentials and tongue somatosensory EPs.

Results

A multivariable regression model including age, sex, total number of T2 lesions on baseline MRI and EP score >13 showed that the total number of T2 lesions on baseline MRI and EP score >13 increase the likelihood for sustained accumulation of disability (SAD). After controlling for age, sex and the total number of T2 lesions on baseline MRI, the hazard of SAD for participants with EP score >13 is 4.093 times that of participants with EP score ≤13. EP score >13 also increases the likelihood for progression measured with a composite measure of progression which uses the Expanded Disability Status Scale, the nine‐hole peg test and the timed 25‐ft walk (exp(B) = 5.577, 95% confidence interval 1.520–20.468, P = 0.01).

Conclusion

The addition of EPs that evaluate brainstem function to the EP score enables prediction of the progression of disability in pwCIS.
Exploring One's Family Heritage to Enhance Self‐awareness: A Step Toward Developing Cultural Competence
Authors: Desai Priti P. , Dodor Bernice A. , Carroll Elizabeth B.
Published: October 2019

Objective

To examine the effectiveness of a writing assignment that required undergraduate students in a diversity course to explore their family heritage. The purpose of this assignment was to increase self‐awareness of students regarding how structural characteristics of ethnicity, race, social class, and religion shaped the contributions family made to their emerging values, beliefs, and attitudes about interacting with others.

Background

Instructors for family diversity courses need more instructional strategies that foster self‐awareness, which is commonly identified as a first step toward developing cultural competency. One such strategy is described in this paper.

Method

A mixed method approach was employed, with both quantitative analysis of the frequency of responses from a course effectiveness survey and a descriptive narrative analysis of the text contained in 36 students' family heritage reflective papers.

Results

Most students reported increased self‐awareness of their family history, racial and ethnic identity, role of social class and religion on socialization, and acknowledged contextual experiences of privilege or discrimination.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that most students deepened their understanding of personal assumptions. They recognized the need to remain open to understanding and showing more empathy toward individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Implications

Our results highlight the opportunity for instructors to be intentional in sequencing instructional activities, promoting respectful peer‐driven learning and dialogue, recognizing students' worldview, and being open to faculty development opportunities.
Cancer‐associated missense mutations enhance the pluripotency reprogramming activity of OCT4 and SOX17
Authors: Srivastava Yogesh , Tan Daisylyn Senna , Malik Vikas , Weng Mingxi , Javed Asif , Cojocaru Vlad , Wu Guangming , Veerapandian Veeramohan , Cheung Lydia W. T. , Jauch Ralf
Published: October 2019

The functional consequences of cancer‐associated missense mutations are unclear for the majority of proteins. We have previously demonstrated that the activity of SOX and Pit‐Oct‐Unc (POU) family factors during pluripotency reprogramming can be switched and enhanced with rationally placed point mutations. Here, we interrogated cancer mutation databases and identified recurrently mutated positions at critical structural interfaces of the DNA‐binding domains of paralogous SOX and POU family transcription factors. Using the conversion of mouse embryonic fibroblasts to induced pluripotent stem cells as functional readout, we identified several gain‐of‐function mutations that enhance pluripotency reprogramming by SOX2 and OCT4. Wild‐type SOX17 cannot support reprogramming but the recurrent missense mutation SOX17‐V118M is capable of inducing pluripotency. Furthermore, SOX17‐V118M promotes oncogenic transformation, enhances thermostability and elevates cellular protein levels of SOX17. We conclude that the mutational profile of SOX and POU family factors in cancer can guide the design of high‐performance reprogramming factors. Furthermore, we propose cellular reprogramming as a suitable assay to study the functional impact of cancer‐associated mutations.