bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Manufacturer structural embeddedness and the network rent: the intervening role of relational embeddedness in the triadic supply chains
Authors: Swierczek Artur
Published: February 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether the manufacturer that occupies the central position in the triadic supply chain is capable of enhancing relationships within both dyads to produce the network rent and extra profit shared among all supply chain actors.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper opted for an exploratory study using a survey of triads forming supply chains. To reveal the capability of yielding the network rent in the examined triads, multiple regression analysis with Interaction effects was used. Having confirmed the existence of supernormal profit, the partial least square path model was developed to investigate the effects of manufacturer structural embeddedness on relational embeddedness and the resulting impact on the network rent.

Findings

The obtained findings show that manufacturer structural embeddedness has a direct and positive effect on relational embeddedness and relational embeddedness of two dyads (represented as a higher order factor) has a direct and positive effect on the network rent. In addition, relational embeddedness mediates the positive relationship between manufacturer structural embeddedness and network rent, as the null model with no mediation appears to underestimate the direct and positive effect between manufacturer structural embeddedness and the network rent.

Research limitations/implications

The study makes three key contributions. First, it extends the application of both relational and structural embeddedness to grasp the network architecture of the triadic supply chain. Second, the concept of manufacturer structural embeddedness is used to elaborate on the role of the manufacturer in establishing relationships of high quality with the supplier and the customer. In connection to the previous point, the calculated network rent demonstrates that establishing collaborative relationships in triadic supply chains may bring a significant supernormal profit, derived as the outcome of mutual interplay between the relational performances of two dyads.

Practical implications

The study shows that manufacturers intending to use their central position to develop collaborative relationships with both partners, and the supplier and the customer, ought to appreciate the role of social ties embedded in interorganizational networks. The paper also implies that in parallel with using formal contracts as a governance mechanism, the manufacturer centrally positioned in the triadic supply chains ought to deliberately shape relational embeddedness of both dyads. Finally, managers can consider the ways to enhance relational embeddedness in a triad by improving relational embeddedness of a certain dyad.

Originality/value

This study provides a novel framework for studying two basic dimensions of embeddedness (structural and relational) and their impact on the network rent in triadic supply chains that goes beyond the dyadic perspective and incorporates the extended supply chain.
3D printing strategic deployment: the supply chain perspective
Authors: Braziotis Christos , Rogers Helen , Jimo Ajeseun
Published: February 2019

Purpose

The emergence and application of 3D Printing (3DP) is changing the way products are developed and reach the customer, allowing for unprecedented customisation options. Past research has focussed on the modus operandi of the technology, providing indications for wider future adoption. 3DP is predicted to complement current production processes and is anticipated to have a profound effect on the value chain and, therefore, on supply chain (SC) management. Management-related 3DP research has, however, been largely fragmented in terms of analysing the strategic deployment of 3DP and the corresponding effects on performance objectives. The aim of this paper is to identify, define and exemplify typical 3DP deployment strategies pursued.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach taken is a critical literature review, synthesising and interpreting past research on cross-industry deployment of 3DP, including illustrative examples. This enabled the development of a framework of current stage knowledge.

Findings

Building on past research, the authors propose a conceptual framework to be used as a classification system for 3DP operations, based on process and SC level configurations across different industries. They discuss the potential impact on operations performance objectives and then highlight research gaps, proposing specific research avenues to enhance understanding of the effects of 3DP adoption on SCs.

Practical implications

The proposed framework outlines strategic guidelines for 3DP and provides practitioners with the range of strategic options available for 3DP deployment and anticipated impacts on performance.

Originality/value

The framework can be used to map 3DP deployment at an operational level and identify the likely impact on performance objectives. Relevant implications and a future research agenda are explored.
Assessing General Motors’ innovation strategy over three decades using the “Three Box Solution”
Authors: Barabba Vincent
Published: February 2019

Purpose

Professor Vijay Govindarajan’s “Three Box Solution” framework provides a useful way of looking at a transformative business innovation initiative started at General Motors almost three decades ago and now being further developed by its current CEO Mary Barra.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on 18 years of experience at GM the author offers insights into how the company used the “Three Box” aproach: 10;•9;Box 1: Strengthen the core. 10;•9;Box 2: Let go of the practices that drive the core business but hinder the new one. 10;•9;Box 3: Invented a new business model. 10;

Findings

GM management found creative ways to enable the current business to thrive while exploring the potential market for a visionary business model.

Practical implications

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Originality/value

Based on actual experience of participating in strategy development this paper should help decision makers address their current actions and future strategies simultaneously.
Changes in inflammatory markers correlated with increased testosterone after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy in obese Chinese men with acanthosis nigricans
Authors: Zhu Cuiling , Mei Fangyun , Gao Jingyang , Zhou Donglei , Lu Liesheng , Qu Shen
Published: February 2019

Bariatric surgery is an effective method for severe obesity and its related comorbidities. This study was performed to explore the alterations of sex hormones and inflammatory markers following laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) among obese Chinese men with acanthosis nigricans (AN). Sixty‐five obese men who underwent LSG were enrolled, comprising simple obesity without AN (OB group, n = 20) and obesity with AN (AN group, n = 45). There were 31 healthy male controls with normal body mass index (BMI) included. Anthropometry data, inflammatory markers, sex hormones and metabolic parameters were compared preoperatively and 12 months post‐operatively. At baseline, patients in the AN group were associated with more severe metabolic abnormalities than the OB and control groups. Twelve months after surgery, AN patients obtained significant improvement in skin condition and reduction in AN score. BMI, fasting insulin (FINS), and Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA‐IR), tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and total testosterone (TT) were significantly changed in both groups, while interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐8 and C‐reactive protein were changed significantly only in the AN group. Moreover, FINS, HOMA‐IR, TT and IL‐6 levels were changed more in the AN group than those in the OB group. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that TT increase correlated significantly with reduction in FINS and HOMA‐IR in both groups, but correlated with changes in IL‐6 only in the AN group. In conclusion, LSG is effective in improving the skin condition of obese men with AN. The increased TT in AN patients correlated with amelioration of inflammatory state in addition to insulin resistance after LSG.
Prokaryotic and viral community structure in the singular chaotropic salt lake Salar de Uyuni
Authors: Ramos‐Barbero María Dolores , Martínez José M. , Almansa Cristina , Rodríguez Nuria , Villamor Judith , Gomariz María , Escudero Cristina , Rubin Sergio dC , Antón Josefa , Martínez‐García Manuel , Amils Ricardo
Published: February 2019

Salar de Uyuni (SdU) is the largest hypersaline salt flat and the highest lithium reservoir on Earth. In addition to extreme temperatures and high UV irradiance, SdU has high concentrations of chaotropic salts which can be important factors in controlling microbial diversity. Here, for the first time we characterize the viral diversity of this hypersaline environment during the two seasons, as well as the physicochemical characteristics and the prokaryotic communities of the analysed samples. Most of the selected samples showed a peculiar physicochemical composition and prokaryotic diversity, mostly different from each other even for samples from locations in close proximity or the same season. In contrast to most hypersaline systems Bacteria frequently outnumbered Archaea. Furthermore, an outstanding percentage of members of Salinibacter sp., likely a species different from the cosmopolitan Salinibacter ruber, was obtained in most of the samples. Viral communities displayed the morphologies normally found in hypersaline environments. Two seasonal samples were chosen for a detailed metagenomic analysis of the viral assemblage. Both viral communities shared common sequences but were dominated by sample‐specific viruses, mirroring the differences also observed in physicochemical and prokaryotic community composition. These metaviromes were distinct from those detected in other hypersaline systems analysed to date.
Long‐term fertilization regimes change soil nitrification potential by impacting active autotrophic ammonia oxidizers and nitrite oxidizers as assessed by DNA stable isotope probing
Authors: Kong Yali , Ling Ning , Xue Chao , Chen Huan , Ruan Yang , Guo Junjie , Zhu Chen , Wang Min , Shen Qirong , Guo Shiwei
Published: February 2019

Chemoautotrophic ammonia‐oxidizers and nitrite‐oxidizers are responsible for a significant amount of soil nitrate production. The identity and composition of these active nitrifiers in soils under different long‐term fertilization regimes remain largely under‐investigated. Based on that soil nitrification potential significantly decreased in soils with chemical fertilization (CF) and increased in soils with organic fertilization (OF), a microcosm experiment with DNA stable isotope probing was further conducted to clarify the active nitrifiers. Both ammonia‐oxidizing archaea (AOA) and bacteria (AOB) were found to actively respond to urea addition in soils with OF and no fertilizer (CK), whereas only AOB were detected in soils with CF. Around 98% of active AOB were Nitrosospira cluster 3a.1 in all tested soils, and more than 90% of active AOA were Nitrososphaera subcluster 1.1 in unfertilized and organically fertilized soils. Nitrite oxidation was performed only by Nitrospira‐like bacteria in all soils. The relative abundances of Nitrospira lineage I and VI were 32% and 61%, respectively, in unfertilized soils, and that of Nitrospira lineage II was 97% in fertilized soils, indicating long‐term fertilization shifted the composition of active Nitrospira‐like bacteria in response to urea. This finding indicates that different fertilizer regimes impact the composition of active nitrifiers, thus, impacting soil nitrification potential.
Dietary polysaccharides: fermentation potentials of a primitive gut ecosystem
Authors: Zeibich Lydia , Schmidt Oliver , Drake Harold L.
Published: February 2019

The alimentary canal of the earthworm is representative of primitive gut ecosystems, and gut fermenters capable of degrading ingested biomass‐derived polysaccharides might contribute to the environmental impact and survival of this terrestrial invertebrate. Thus, this study evaluated the postulation that gut microbiota of the model earthworm Lumbricus terrestris ferment diverse biomass‐derived polysaccharides. Structural polysaccharides (e.g. cellulose, chitin) had marginal impact on fermentation in anoxic gut content treatments. In contrast, nonstructural polysaccharides (e.g. starch, glycogen) greatly stimulated (a) the formation of diverse fermentation products (e.g. H2, ethanol, fatty acids) and (b) the facultatively fermentative families Aeromonadaceae and Enterobacteriaceae. Despite these contrasting results with different polysaccharides, most saccharides derived from these biopolymers (e.g. glucose, N‐acetylglucosamine) greatly stimulated fermentation, yielding 16S rRNA gene‐based signatures of Aeromonadaceae‐, Enterobacteriaceae‐ and Fusobacteriaceae‐affiliated phylotypes. Roots and litter are dietary substrates of the earthworm, and as proof‐of‐principle, gut‐associated fermenters responded rapidly to root‐ and litter‐derived nutrients including saccharides. These findings suggest that (a) hydrolysis of certain ingested structural polysaccharides may be a limiting factor in the ability of gut fermenters to utilize them and (b) nonstructural polysaccharides of disrupted biomass are subject to rapid fermentation by gut microbes and yield fatty acids that can be utilized by the earthworm.
Governance Considerations for Seeker–Solver Relationships: A Knowledge‐Based Perspective in Crowdsourcing for Innovation Contests
Authors: Piazza Mariangela , Mazzola Erica , Acur Nuran , Perrone Giovanni
Published: February 2019

The need to solve innovation problems and insource knowledge has led to an increasing number of organizations engaging in crowdsourcing activities and subsequently establishing working relationships with winning solution providers. Using a knowledge‐based view and the problem‐solving perspective, we develop a theoretical framework suggesting how specific innovation problem attributes (i.e. the decomposability, formulation and search space of the problem) influence the governance decision (unilateral vs. bilateral) of seekers to manage the relationship with winning solvers. We empirically analyse the framework using 582 challenges broadcast on the NineSigma crowdsourcing platform. Our results indicate that problem attributes – the formulation and search space of the problem – have a positive effect on seekers’ preference towards unilateral governance structures. However, we did not find any empirical confirmation of the effect that the decomposability of the innovation problem has on seekers’ preference towards unilateral governance structures. This study offers several contributions to the crowdsourcing literature, and also has important implications for managers of organizations aiming to insource knowledge through crowdsourcing for innovation contests.
Beyond the Matrix: Visual Methods for Qualitative Network Research
Authors: Jaspersen Lena J. , Stein Christian
Published: February 2019

Network research remains dominated by approaches involving the analysis of numerical data stored in data matrices with the aim of identifying the effects of hidden social structures. While such research has advanced our understanding of social networks at the inter‐personal, inter‐unit and inter‐organizational level, repeated calls have been made for network research to attend to the situated meanings attached to both relationships and network structures. In this article, we advance a nascent literature on qualitative methods for social network analysis by drawing together developments in visual network research from across the social sciences. We introduce a typology of three visual methods for the collection of network data using network maps: participatory network mapping, network map interviews and visual network surveys. Drawing on three empirical examples from our research in the inter‐organizational domain, we demonstrate how these methods can be used for the collection of qualitative and quantitative relational data, and how they can be triangulated with other qualitative methods and social network analysis. We evaluate the merits and limitations of the methods presented and conclude that visual network research is a useful addition to existing methods for network research in business and management studies.
Fermentation Improves the Preventive Effect of Soybean Against Bone Loss in Senescence‐Accelerated Mouse Prone 6
Authors: Nirmala Farida Sukma , Lee Hyunjung , Kim Ji‐Sun , Jung Chang Hwa , Ha Tae‐Youl , Jang Young Jin , Ahn Jiyun
Published: February 2019

Osteopenia is a preclinical phase of osteoporosis, it occurs naturally with aging and increases the risk of bone fractures in elderly males. Previous studies have revealed the beneficial effects of soybean on preventing bone loss due to its isoflavone contents. Fermentation alters the soybean isoflavone contents, that is, isoflavone glucosides is hydrolyzed into aglycones. However, it is not clear how these alterations influences the preventive effect of soybean on bone loss. In this study, we fed senescence‐accelerated mouse prone 6 (SAMP6), a model of senile osteopenia, with an equal dosage of nonfermented soybean (NS) or fermented soybean, Doenjang (DJ) for 18 weeks. Mice supplemented with DJ showed 1.13‐fold higher bone densities and 1.06‐fold longer relative bone lengths than those of osteopenic SAMP6 mice old control (OC), while NS‐supplemented mice showed no significant improvement. Supplementation with DJ effectively prevented bone loss in the osteopenia model by the improvement of bone formation and reduction of osteoclastogenesis. In addition, we discovered that DJ increased osteogenesis in SAMP6 mice via BMP2‐Smad‐Runx2 signaling. These results suggest that the fermentation process could enhance bone loss prevention by soybean and dietary supplementation with fermented soybeans may be beneficial for bone health.

Practical Application

Soybean fermentation improved the preventive effects of soybean on bone loss. Therefore, the consumption of fermented soybean, Doenjang, is a potential alternative for aging‐related bone loss therapy.
Kaempferia parviflora Ethanol Extract, a Peroxisome Proliferator‐Activated Receptor γ Ligand‐binding Agonist, Improves Glucose Tolerance and Suppresses Fat Accumulation in Diabetic NSY Mice
Authors: Ochiai Masaru , Takeuchi Toshiki , Nozaki Tsutomu , Ishihara Ken‐o , Matsuo Tatsuhiro
Published: February 2019

This study assessed the effect of Kaempferia parviflora, also known as black ginger (BG), and its ethanol extract (BGE) on peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR) γ agonistic activity, glucose tolerance, fat accumulation, and lipids‐induced hypertriglyceridemia in mice. PPARγ ligand‐binding capacity in vitro and polymethoxy flavone contents were highly observed in organic solvent extracts. In an animal experiment A, male diabetic Nagoya‐Shibata‐Yasuda mice were divided into five dietary groups and fed each diet for 8 weeks: AIN‐93G diet (low‐fat [LF] diet), high‐fat (HF) diet, HF diet supplemented with 1% BG, HF diet supplemented with 0.19% BGE, and HF diet supplemented with pioglitazone (PPARγ agonist, 3 mg/kg/day) as a PPARγ agonistic positive control. As determined from glucose and insulin tolerance tests, plasma glucose levels were improved in the BG and BGE groups. The BGE extract suppressed fat accumulation in adipose tissues, liver, and muscles without changing the plasma adiponectin level. In an animal experiment B, in order to investigate the effect of BG and BGE on lipid‐induced hypertriglyceridemia, male ddY mice were divided into three test groups: control, BG‐administered group (500 mg/kg), and BGE‐administered group (100 mg/kg). The plasma triacylglycerol level was not different among the groups during the lipids administration test. These results conclude that the BGE extract containing several kinds of polymethoxy flavones showed PPARγ ligand‐binding capacity in vitro and prevented obesity and insulin resistance independent of adiponectin secretion in mice.

Practical Application

Kaempferia parviflora, also known as black ginger (BG), is often used as a folk medicine and a functional food material to prevent metabolic syndrome mainly in Asian regions. Here, we have clarified that ethanol extract from BG (BGE) contains several kinds of polymethoxy flavones to show PPARγ ligand‐binding capacity and is an active extract for the improvement of obesity and insulin resistance. The BGE is expected to be applied for functional food materials in health food markets. Also, polymethoxy flavones to show PPARγ ligand‐binding capacity can be generally applied as a physiological active compound of functional food supplements.
Hospitalization of children after prenatal exposure to opioid maintenance therapy during pregnancy: a national registry study from the Czech Republic
Authors: Skurtveit Svetlana , Nechanská Blanka , Handal Marte , Mahic Milada , Mravčík Viktor , Gabrhelík Roman
Published: February 2019

Background and Aims

Our understanding of the long‐term safety of prenatal exposure to opioid maintenance treatment (OMT) is insufficient. We compared childhood morbidity (0–3 years) between OMT‐exposed and relevant comparison groups.

Design

Nation‐wide, registry‐based cohort study. Registries on reproductive health, addiction treatment, hospitalization and death were linked using identification numbers.

Setting

The Czech Republic (2000–14).

Participants

Children with different prenatal exposure: (i) mother in OMT during pregnancy (OMT; n = 218), (ii) mother discontinued OMT before pregnancy (OMT‐D; n = 55), (iii) mother with opioid use disorder, but not in OMT during pregnancy (OUD; n = 85) and (iv) mother in the general population (GP) (n = 1 238 452)

Measurements

Episodes of hospitalization were observed as outcomes. Information on in‐patient contacts, length of stay and diagnoses (International Classification of Diseases version 10) were assessed. Binary logistic regressions were conducted to estimate the associations between OMT exposure and the outcomes, crude and adjusted for the socio‐economic status and smoking.

Findings

No significant differences were found in the overall proportion of hospitalization among OMT‐exposed children, children of OMT‐D and children of women with OUD [54.1%, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 47.3–60.1%; 47.3%, 95% CI = 33.9–61.1%; 51.8%, 95% CI = 40.7%–62.6%], while the proportion was significantly lower (35.8%, 95% CI = 35.7–35.8%) in the GP. There were no significant differences in risk of specific diagnoses between OMT‐exposed children, children of OMT‐D and children of women with OUD. In the adjusted analyses, differences between OMT‐exposed and children in the GP were still present for infections and parasitic diseases (OR = 2.0, 95% CI = 1.4–2.7), diseases of the digestive system (OR = 1.7, 95% CI = 1.2–2.6) and diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue (OR = 1.9, 95% CI = 1.2–3.2).

Conclusion

This study did not find clear evidence for an increase in risk of morbidity during the first 3 years of life in children with prenatal opioid maintenance treatment exposure compared with children of women who discontinued such treatment before pregnancy or suffered from opioid use disorder without this treatment. Compared the general population, there appears to be an increased risk of hospitalizations for infectious, gastrointestinal and skin diseases.
Effective genetic markers for identifying the Escherichia coli F4ac receptor status of pigs
Authors: Hu D. , Rampoldi A. , Bratus‐Neuenschwander A. , Hofer A. , Bertschinger H. U. , Vögeli P. , Neuenschwander S.
Published: February 2019

The F4ac receptor locus (F4acR), which encodes susceptibility or resistance to Escherichia coli diarrhoea, is inherited as an autosomal recessive monogenetic trait. F4acR is localized on pig chromosome 13 (SSC13q41–q44) near the MUC13 gene. Two flanking markers (CHCF1 and ALGA0106330) with a high linkage disequilibrium (LD) with F4acR were found to be effective for the genetic identification of F4ac‐resistant pigs in the Swiss Large White breed (one recombinant out of 2034 genotyped pigs). Three recombinant boars, one each from the Duroc, Swiss Landrace and Piétrain breeds, were genotyped with seven different markers and phenotyped by means of a microscopic adhesion test. Only ALGA0072075, CHCF1 and CHCF3 indicated the correct phenotype. To test the effect of the resistance allele on production traits, 530 Large White pigs from the national test station were investigated. A significant difference existed among the F4acR locus genotypes in the intramuscular fat content of the longissimus dorsi muscle, whereas no other production traits were influenced by the resistance allele. The frequency of the CHCF1‐C and ALGA0106330‐A alleles associated with resistance in the Swiss Large White population was 60%, which is advantageous for implementing this trait in a breeding programme to select for E. coli F4ac‐resistant animals. The selection of resistant pigs should start on the male side due to the inability of resistant sows to produce sufficient amounts of protecting antibodies in the colostrum. Selection of genetically F4ac‐resistant pigs is a sustainable and suitable alternative to decreasing animal loss and antibiotic use due to diarrhoea.
Is induction of labor a reasonable option for breech presentation?
Authors: Gaillard Thomas , Girault Aude , Alexander Sophie , Goffinet François , Le Ray Camille
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Whereas spontaneous onset of labor and vaginal delivery for breech presentation is considered to be a safe and effective option in selected cases, the safety of induction of labor is not established yet. The objectives of this study were to describe the outcomes of pregnancy in women induced with a fetus in breech presentation and compare the outcomes with those undergoing planned cesarean delivery.

Material and methods

We performed a secondary analysis of the observational prospective multicenter PREMODA study, including all singleton breech deliveries after 37 weeks in 174 centers in France and Belgium. We excluded women with spontaneous onset of labor, scarred uterus or intrauterine fetal death. Our study population consisted of women with either induction of labor or planned cesarean delivery. The primary outcome was the composite criteria of neonatal mortality and serious morbidity used in the Term Breech Trial and in the PREMODA prospective cohort.

Results

Our study population consisted of 4138 women, 218 with induction of labor and 3920 with planned cesarean. Two‐thirds (67.4%) of the women in the induction of labor group delivered vaginally. There was no significant difference between the groups for the primary outcome (48 [1.2%] in the planned cesarean group vs 3 [1.4%] in the induction of labor group, P = 0.75). Moreover, none of the criteria of the composite primary outcome was significantly more frequent in the induction of labor group.

Conclusions

Induction of labor for breech presentation does not seem to increase neonatal mortality or severe neonatal morbidity compared with planned cesarean delivery.
A prospective study of women and girls undergoing fertility preservation due to oncologic and non‐oncologic indications in Sweden–Trends in patients’ choices and benefit of the chosen methods after long‐term follow up
Authors: Rodriguez‐Wallberg Kenny A. , Marklund Anna , Lundberg Frida , Wikander Ida , Milenkovic Milan , Anastacio Amandine , Sergouniotis Fotios , Wånggren Kjell , Ekengren Jeanette , Lind Tekla , Borgström Birgit
Published: February 2019

Introduction

In Scandinavian countries, programs for fertility preservation are offered free of charge at tertiary‐care university hospitals to all patients facing treatments with risk of subsequent sterility. In this prospective study we aimed to investigate trends in female patients’ choices after counseling and fertility preservation outcomes during follow up in relation to benign vs malignant indications.

Material and methods

Data on 1254 females including 1076 adults and 178 girls who received fertility preservation counseling for either oncologic (n = 852) or benign indications (n = 402) at Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, between 1 October 1998 and 1 December 2018 were analyzed. As appropriate, t tests and chi‐square tests were used to compare groups. Logistic regression was used to compare outcomes among groups depending on indications.

Results

Adult women generally elected to undergo oocyte retrieval after controlled ovarian stimulation for cryopreservation of embryos or oocytes (n = 538, 73%), whereas a minor proportion opted for cryopreservation of ovarian tissue retrieved through laparoscopy (n = 221, 27%). More than half of the women with a partner chose either not to fertilize their oocytes aiming at cryopreservation of oocytes or to share obtained oocytes attempting both cryopreservation of oocytes and cryopreservation of embryos. All pre‐pubertal (n = 48) and 73% of post‐pubertal girls (n = 66) elected cryopreservation of ovarian tissue. In recent years, an increasing number of teenagers have opted for controlled ovarian stimulation aiming at cryopreservation of oocytes, either before (n = 24, 17%) or after completion of cancer treatment (n = 15, 10%). During follow up, 27% of the women returned for a new reproductive counseling, additional fertility preservation or to attempt pregnancy. Utilization rates among individuals who were alive and of childbearing age by December 2018 indicated 29%, 8% and 5% for embryos, oocytes and ovarian tissue with live birth rates of 54%, 46% and 7%, respectively. Women with benign indications were significantly younger than women with previous malignant indications at the time of attempting pregnancy. Although the pregnancy rates were similar among both groups, the live birth rate was significantly higher in women with benign vs previous malignant indications (47% vs 21%, P = .002).

Conclusions

Trends in fertility preservation choices have changed over time. Women with previous malignancy had lower live birth rates than women with benign fertility preservation indications.
The psychological importance of fertility preservation counseling and support for cancer patients
Authors: Logan Shanna , Anazodo Antoinette
Published: February 2019

Infertility associated with cancer can have significant psychological impacts for cancer patients and survivors, necessitating appropriate fertility‐related psychological support. This literature review details the psychological impact of infertility in cancer patients and survivors, and discusses fertility counseling as described in current international guidelines; as either the provision of fertility information or psychosocial support. Fertility counseling has a role in assisting with fertility treatment decision‐making, but also in supporting patients with the emotional distress associated with potential infertility at the time of cancer diagnosis, and infertility in survivorship. The necessity of psychological support for fertility patients is outlined, alongside recommendations for adolescent and young adult patients, and family members of cancer patients involved in fertility and oncological care. Moving forward, clear guidelines for fertility counseling of cancer patients in the context of fertility preservation may be beneficial, in removing ambiguity as to whom conducts counseling, what counseling involves, and what level of psychosocial support may be most effective in supporting cancer patients longitudinally.
Preconceptional thyrotropin level in euthyroid women is inversely associated with the live birth rate in first in vitro fertilization cycle
Authors: Grove‐Laugesen Diana , Aaskov Camilla , Ebbehøj Eva , Knudsen Ulla B.
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Thyroid disorders have been associated with adverse reproductive outcome. Whether the preconceptional level of thyrotropin (TSH) in euthyroid women impacts on in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcome has been debated. This study reports the outcome of first IVF cycle in euthyroid women in relation to TSH level.

Material and methods

A retrospective study was conducted in women referred for fertility treatment in the period 1 January 2012 until 31 March 2014. Among the exclusion criteria were thyroid medication at referral and comorbidities. TSH was measured as part of the fertility workup, and women were followed until pregnancy loss or live birth. Outcome as well as patient characteristics were prospectively collected from a treatment database.

Results

A total of 623 euthyroid women underwent their first IVF cycle. The live birth rate was 27.0% (n = 168). Comparing women with a preconceptional TSH level above vs below 2.5 mIU/L, we found lower odds for clinical pregnancy (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 0.52; 95% CI 0.29‐0.95), and lower odds for live birth (aOR 0.53; 95% CI 0.29‐0.99).

Conclusions

A preconceptional TSH level >2.5 mIU/L was associated with lower odds for clinical pregnancy and live birth in euthyroid healthy women undergoing first IVF cycle.
When Gratitude Evokes Indebtedness
Authors: Oishi Shigehiro , Koo Minkyung , Lim Nangyeon , Suh Eunkook M.
Published: February 2019

Background

Research in the US found that gratitude increases happiness. We conducted three studies to examine whether gratitude increases happiness among Koreans, as well.

Methods

Participants were randomly assigned to a gratitude or a control condition in Studies 1 and 2, and into a gratitude toward someone important or a gratitude toward own health condition in Study 3. Their moods were then measured.

Results

Gratitude writing marginally significantly evoked indebtedness among Korean students (Study 1, N = 336) but not among American students (Study 2, N = 219). Equally important, even among Americans, those who wrote about their gratitude toward someone important reported feeling indebtedness marginally more than those who wrote about their gratitude toward something or someone not that important. In Study 3 (N = 181), American participants, randomly assigned to write about their gratitude toward someone important, reported not only more gratitude but also more indebtedness than those assigned to write about their gratitude toward their own health.

Conclusions

Taken together, these studies suggest that gratitude evokes indebtedness when gratitude is about someone important.
Augmented reality‐based virtual manipulatives versus physical manipulatives for teaching geometric shapes to preschool children
Authors: Gecu‐Parmaksiz Zeynep , Delialioglu Omer
Published: February 2019

The aim of the current study is to compare the effect of virtual and physical manipulatives on preschool children’s understanding of geometric shapes. A quasi‐experimental research design was employed where children in the experimental group used tablet computers to access Augmented Reality (AR)‐based virtual manipulatives, while children in the control group used physical manipulatives. The instruction lasted for a period of four weeks at a public primary school in Turkey with 72 children aged five and six years old. Comparison of their understanding of geometric shapes was based on their scores from pre‐test and post‐test measures of the Geometric Shape Recognition Task instrument. Analysis of the collected data revealed no statistically significant difference between the groups in the circle recognition task, while statistically significant differences were found between the groups in the recognition tasks for triangle, rectangle, and square shapes in favour of the experimental group. In addition to this, although there was an increase in the total scores of both groups, the results showed a statistically significant difference in test scores in favour of the experimental group. The current study also showed that the children had difficulty in categorising geometric shapes when their attributes were changed, therefore providing different forms of geometric shapes to children is very important for improving their conceptual understanding.
Agentic neglect: Teachers as gatekeepers of England’s national computing curriculum
Authors: Larke Laura R.
Published: February 2019

The addition of computing to England’s National Curriculum was welcomed as a much‐needed modernization of the country’s digital skills curriculum, replacing a poorly regarded ICT program of study with an industry‐supported scheme of computer science, robotics and computational thinking. This paper will demonstrate how teachers have acted as gatekeepers to block a curriculum that they view as narrow, difficult to teach and in conflict with their beliefs and practices as educational professionals. Extensive qualitative data were collected through classroom observations, teacher and student interviews and student artifact creation in four state‐maintained primary school classrooms to explore how teachers acted agentically to minimize or altogether reject a legally mandated curriculum that clashed with their local, professional knowledge. Analysis of this data was supported by official documents and personal accounts of the creation of the computing program of study, which highlight a discourse of economic anxiety and post‐imperialist nostalgia on the part of the curriculum’s designers. This study will illuminate the significant influence that teachers wield as gatekeepers for subject content, with the ability to reject digital technology curricula even when it is supported by industry and mandated by law.
IFN/STAT signaling controls tumorigenesis and the drug response in colorectal cancer
Authors: Sakahara Mizuho , Okamoto Takuya , Oyanagi Jun , Takano Hiroshi , Natsume Yasuko , Yamanaka Hitomi , Kusama Daisuke , Fusejima Mishio , Tanaka Norio , Mori Seiich , Kawachi Hiroshi , Ueno Masashi , Sakai Yoshiharu , Noda Tetsuo , Nagayama Satoshi , Yao Ryoji
Published: February 2019

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is caused by genetic alterations, and comprehensive sequence analyses have revealed the mutation landscapes. In addition to somatic changes, genetic variations are considered important factors contributing to tumor development; however, our knowledge on this subject is limited. Familial adenomatous polyposis coli (FAP) is an autosomal‐dominant inherited disease caused by germline mutations in the adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene. FAP patients are classified into two major groups based on clinical manifestations: classical FAP (CFAP) and attenuated FAP (AFAP). In this study, we established 42 organoids from three CFAP patients and two AFAP patients. Comprehensive gene expression analysis demonstrated a close association between IFN/STAT signaling and the phenotypic features of FAP patients. Genetic disruption of Stat1 in the mouse model of FAP reduced tumor formation, demonstrating that the IFN/STAT pathway is causally associated with the tumor‐forming potential of APC‐deficient tumors. Mechanistically, STAT1 is downstream target of KRAS and is phosphorylated by its activating mutations. We found that enhanced IFN/STAT signaling in CFAP conferred resistance to MEK inhibitors. These findings reveal the crosstalk between RAS signaling and IFN/STAT signaling, which contributes to the tumor‐forming potential and drug response. These results offer a rationale for targeting of IFN/STAT signaling and for the stratification of CRC patients.
Serum iodine concentration in pregnant women and its association with urinary iodine concentration and thyroid function
Authors: Pan Ziyun , Cui Tingkai , Chen Wen , Gao Shu , Pearce Elizabeth N. , Wang Wei , Chen Yanting , Guo Wenxing , Tan Long , Shen Jun , Zhang Wanqi
Published: February 2019

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the association of serum iodine concentration (SIC) with urinary iodine concentration (UIC) and thyroid function in pregnant women, as well as to provide the reference range of SIC of pregnant women in iodine‐sufficiency area.

Methods

Pregnant women were enrolled in the Department of Obstetrics, Tanggu Maternity Hospital, Tianjin from March 2016 to May 2017. Fasting venous blood and spot urine samples were collected. Serum free triiodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine (FT4), thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroglobulin (Tg), thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb), thyroglobulin antibody (TgAb), UIC and SIC were measured.

Results

One thousand and ninety‐nine participants were included in this study. The median UIC was 156 μg/L. The median SIC was 108 μg/L, and the 95% reference interval for SIC was 65.6‐164.7 μg/L. SIC was positively correlated with UIC (r = 0.12, P < 0.001), FT3 (r = 0.23, P < 0.001), and FT4 (r = 0.50, P < 0.001) and was inversely correlated with TSH (r = −0.14, P < 0.001). Pregnant women with a SIC < 79.9 μg/L had a higher risk of hypothyroxinemia compared to those with higher SIC (OR = 2.44, 95% CI: 1.31‐4.75). Those having SIC > 138.5 μg/L were more likely to have thyrotoxicosis than those with lower SIC values (OR = 13.52, 95% CI: 4.21‐43.36).

Conclusions

Serum iodine level is associated with UIC and thyroid function in pregnant women. Low SIC was associated with increased risk for iodine deficiency and hypothyroxinemia, while high SIC was related to excess and thyrotoxicosis.
Are we eating the world's megafauna to extinction?
Authors: Ripple William J. , Wolf Christopher , Newsome Thomas M. , Betts Matthew G. , Ceballos Gerardo , Courchamp Franck , Hayward Matt W. , Van Valkenburgh Blaire , Wallach Arian D. , Worm Boris
Published: February 2019

Many of the world's vertebrates have experienced large population and geographic range declines due to anthropogenic threats that put them at risk of extinction. The largest vertebrates, defined as megafauna, are especially vulnerable. We analyzed how human activities are impacting the conservation status of megafauna within six classes: mammals, ray‐finned fish, cartilaginous fish, amphibians, birds, and reptiles. We identified a total of 362 extant megafauna species. We found that 70% of megafauna species with sufficient information are decreasing and 59% are threatened with extinction. Surprisingly, direct harvesting of megafauna for human consumption of meat or body parts is the largest individual threat to each of the classes examined, and a threat for 98% (159/162) of threatened species with threat data available. Therefore, minimizing the direct killing of the world's largest vertebrates is a priority conservation strategy that might save many of these iconic species and the functions and services they provide.
Cardiac output measurement during exercise in COPD: A comparison of dye dilution and impedance cardiography
Authors: Louvaris Zafeiris , Spetsioti Stavroula , Andrianopoulos Vasileios , Chynkiamis Nikolaos , Habazettl Helmut , Wagner Harrieth , Zakynthinos Spyros , Wagner Peter D. , Vogiatzis Ioannis
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Impedance cardiography (IC) derived from morphological analysis of the thoracic impedance signal is now commonly used for noninvasive assessment of cardiac output (CO) at rest and during exercise. However, in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), conflicting findings put its accuracy into question.

Objectives

We therefore compared concurrent CO measurements captured by IC (PhysioFlow: COIC) and by the indocyanine green dye dilution method (CODD) in patients with COPD.

Methods

Fifty paired CO measurements were concurrently obtained using the two methods from 10 patients (FEV1: 50.5 ± 17.5% predicted) at rest and during cycling at 25%, 50%, 75% and 100% peak work rate.

Results

From rest to peak exercise COIC and CODD were strongly correlated (r = 0.986, P < 0.001). The mean absolute and percentage differences between COIC and CODD were 1.08 L/min (limits of agreement (LoA): 0.05‐2.11 L/min) and 18 ± 2%, respectively, with IC yielding systematically higher values. Bland‐Altman analysis indicated that during exercise only 7 of the 50 paired measurements differed by more than 20%. When data were expressed as changes from rest, correlations and agreement between the two methods remained strong over the entire exercise range (r = 0.974, P < 0.001, with no significant difference: 0.19 L/min; LoA: −0.76 to 1.15 L/min). Oxygen uptake (VO2) and CODD were linearly related: r = 0.893 (P < 0.001), CODD = 5.94 × VO2 + 2.27 L/min. Similar results were obtained for VO2 and COIC (r = 0.885, P < 0.001, COIC = 6.00 × VO2 + 3.30 L/min).

Conclusions

These findings suggest that IC provides an acceptable CO measurement from rest to peak cycling exercise in patients with COPD.
Quantification of critical care medicine: An ICU survey
Authors: Yeragunta Yashaswini , Leichtle Stefan W. , Qiao Renli
Published: February 2019

Background

The shortage in intensivist workforce has been long recognized but no solution has been identified. Meanwhile, fellowships in pulmonary and critical care medicine (PCCM) are expanding, other critical care medicine (CCM) programs are contracting. No explanation exists for this contradictory trend, although understanding contributory factors may lead to a solution for the shortage. The fundamental difference between PCCM and other CCM programs lies in the residency training of trainees. We tested the hypothesis that the nature of CCM practice determines its attractiveness to potential candidates.

Methods

A questionnaire‐based survey was administered recording all daily activities in four different kinds of ICUs at two teaching hospitals one was public, and one was private. Activities were categorized into conventional CCM, respiratory, medical, and surgical interventions.

Results

The average daily census was 17.6 ± 6.6. Across two MICU, one trauma/surgical and one cardiothoracic ICU the average daily activity ranged from 152 to 203 of these CCM formed 27%‐36%, respiratory 10%‐13%, medical 43%‐59%, and surgical 1%‐15%. The combination of medical and respiratory interventions represented >50% of daily activities among all the ICUs.

Conclusions

Quantitative description of ICU activities indicates that the majority of the ICU daily practice relies on medical and respiratory interventions, which may explain why PCCM remains popular.
When basal insulin is not enough: A dose–response relationship between insulin glargine 100 units/mL and glycaemic control
Authors: Umpierrez Guillermo E. , Skolnik Neil , Dex Terry , Traylor Louise , Chao Jason , Shaefer Charles
Published: February 2019

Aims

A post‐hoc analysis to assess the impact in people with type 2 diabetes, of increasing doses of basal insulin on glycaemic measures, body weight and hypoglycaemia.

Research Design and Methods

We included data from prospective, randomized controlled treat‐to‐target trials of ≥24 weeks' duration in people with type 2 diabetes, uncontrolled on metformin and sulphonylureas, and treated with insulin glargine 100 units/mL (U100), who had at least six fasting plasma glucose (FPG) measurements. The impact of insulin dose on glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) values, FPG, hypoglycaemia incidence (<3.9 mmol/L [70 mg/dL]), and body weight was analysed. A total of 458 participants from three eligible trials were included.

Results

The observed relationship between higher basal insulin doses and glycaemic control was non‐linear, with increasing insulin dose leading to smaller reductions in FPG and HbA1c for doses >0.3 IU/kg/d, with a plateauing effect at 0.5 IU/kg/d. Total daily dose of insulin >0.5 IU/kg/d resulted in greater weight gain, but without higher rates of hypoglycaemia, compared with insulin doses ≤0.5 IU/kg/d.

Conclusions

This analysis indicates that basal insulin doses >0.5 IU/kg/d have diminishing additional impact on improving glycaemic measures, with the disadvantage of additional weight gain. Clinicians should consider anti‐hyperglycaemic treatment intensification at doses approaching 0.5 IU/kg/d.