bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Place at the Table: Organization Theory and Public Management
Authors: Whitford Andrew B , Milward H Brinton , Galaskiewicz Joseph , Khademian Anne M
Published: March 2020

In November 2018, the University of Arizona’s School of Government and Public Policy hosted an international workshop on the role of organization theory in public management. The intention was to renew interest in organization theory in public management research. Scholars such as Herbert Simon, Herbert Kaufman, and Richard Selznick made seminal contributions to organization theory through the study of public organizations from the 1940s through the 1960s. In our estimation, organization theory is underrepresented in public administration scholarship for the last several decades. There are natural reasons for this trend, including the discipline’s turn towards organizational behavior and the ascendancy of techniques that advance the study of large datasets and those that allow for experimental control. The recent emergence of “behavioral public administration” is a prominent example of this evolution. This symposium is an attempt to make a place at the table of public management for organization theory. The articles in this symposium contain articles from scholars who operate in the tradition of classic organization theory in new and innovative ways to lend intellectual purchase to studies of public organizations and public organizational networks.
A workshop report on the causes and consequences of sleep health disparities
Authors: Jackson Chandra L , Walker Jenelle R , Brown Marishka K , Das Rina , Jones Nancy L
Published: March 2020

Sleep deficiencies, which include insufficient or long sleep duration, poor sleep quality, and irregular timing of sleep, are disproportionately distributed among populations that experience health disparities in the United States. Sleep deficiencies are associated with a wide range of suboptimal health outcomes, high-risk health behaviors, and poorer overall functioning and well-being. This report focuses on sleep health disparities (SHDs), which is a term defined as differences in one or more dimensions of sleep health on a consistent basis that adversely affect designated disadvantaged populations. SHDs appear to share many of the same determinants and causal pathways observed for health outcomes with well-known disparities. There also appears to be common behavioral and biological mechanisms that connect sleep with poorer health outcomes, suggesting a link between SHDs and other health disparities observed within these designated populations. In 2018, the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, and the Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research convened a workshop with experts in sleep, circadian rhythms, and health disparities to identify research gaps, challenges, and opportunities to better understand and advance research to address SHDs. The major strategy to address SHDs is to promote integration between health disparity causal pathways and sleep and circadian-related mechanisms in research approaches and study designs. Additional strategies include developing a comprehensive, integrative conceptual model, building transdisciplinary training and research infrastructure, and designing as well as testing multilevel, multifactorial interventions to address SHDs.
Investigation of the association between entrepreneurship life cycle, ownership structure and market timing theory
Authors: Mabrouk Lamia , Boubaker Adel
Published: March 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore at what stage of a company’s life cycle the theory of market timing has explained debt. Drawing on a unified conceptual framework of market timing theory, the authors scrutinize the impact of life cycle and ownership structure on the market condition.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a sample of 24 Tunisian companies listed on the stock exchange and 100 French firms listed on the CAC All-Tradable on a 10-year period, this paper grounded the market timing theory and attempted to clear the relation between ownership structure, life cycle of the firm and market timing theory by statistical analysis.

Findings

The findings of panel data modeling indicate that when the life cycle was used as an explanatory variable, it was found that the variable reflecting the market timing is not significant in either context; it means that no significant support is found in the theory of market timing in both countries. Whereas when the life cycle was used as a dummy variable, it was found that the life cycle has an impact on debt only in the Tunisian context.

Practical implications

This study has several important implications for researchers and practitioners. The findings reported here clarify the strength of the impact of life cycle on the market timing, when it explains the debt in the two contexts and the impact of ownership structure such as the managerial ownership and concentration of capital on debt.

Originality/value

This study contributes to examine the theory of debt in different phases of life cycle. Focused on the case of Tunisian and French firms, this study is unique and valuable.
The impact of organizational structure and work autonomy in fostering entrepreneurial tendencies and job performance
Authors: Ahmetoglu Gorkan , Scarlett Lauren , Codreanu Sonia-Cristina , Chamorro-Premuzic Tomas
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Research examining the influence of organizational factors on entrepreneurial tendencies and performance within organizations is scarce. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of organizational structure and work autonomy on entrepreneurial tendencies, locus of control and performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were obtained online using validated self-report questionnaires in a sample of 181 currently employed individuals.

Findings

The results showed organizational structure components to be related to work autonomy and performance, but not to individual-level variables. However, work autonomy related to entrepreneurial tendencies and locus of control, indicating potential indirect effects of organizational structure on individual-level variables via work autonomy. Entrepreneurial tendencies and locus of control were positively related to performance.

Originality/value

Whilst the mediating effect of a number of individual-level traits has been examined in the past, very little research has looked at how organizational factors may influence entrepreneurial tendencies. Fostering entrepreneurial tendencies in employees may facilitate corporate entrepreneurship and performance within organizations.
The perception of entrepreneurship culture by internal university stakeholders
Authors: Kusio Tomasz , Fiore Mariantonietta
Published: March 2020

Purpose

As nowadays the knowledge economy puts a strong emphasis on the universities’ role in the present economy, the recent challenge focuses on the interrelations between entrepreneurship culture and academic engagement. This study aims to investigate the new role that universities are assuming as entrepreneurial entities and gather information taking place internal university stakeholders and students’ perception on entrepreneurship education. The research hypothesis stands entrepreneurship is mainly supposed as being professionally and educationally active rather than setting up a company.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study carries out a study on the perception of entrepreneurship education conducted among students of the University of Economics in Krakow in the winter semester of the academic year 2017/2018. The selected target group meets the criteria of the different national country origin of the respondents. Another criterion for selecting the target group was diversity in the field of students’ academic interests.

Findings

The results of the study give a clear view of the still valid confirmation of the growing academic role in terms of entrepreneurship culture development that appears necessary to address the demand for global competitiveness. In particular, it is possible to categorize two groups of people, moderate and strong supporters of recognition that entrepreneurship is not only about starting a company but also at the same time that it is an expression of its own dynamic and entrepreneurial attitudes.

Practical implications

As the importance of entrepreneurship in the context of an entrepreneurial university is rising and the definition of entrepreneurship goes beyond its understanding of starting a business, universities and academic engagement can and have to better address and focus their planning of the courses and their contents.

Originality/value

The study sheds some light and gives some interesting perspectives on the issue of different levels of entrepreneurship education expectations against different levels at which this education should be provided. In addition, it is in line with the EU entrepreneurship competence framework (EntreComp) aimed at defining tools to improve the entrepreneurial capacity and culture of EU citizens and organizations by means of consensus among stakeholders and by establishing a bond between education and study.
Giving light to mega-event planning: residents' perceptions on total eclipse weekend
Authors: Sox Carole B. , Sox Mary M. , Campbell Jeffrey M.
Published: March 2020

Purpose

Mega-events have been the topic of unprecedented consideration within recent research. Research on the residents' perspectives, however, is still in the infancy stage, yet a key contributor to the overall legacy planning considerations and process. This research investigates resident perceptions toward a mega-event to assist with planning/execution of such events in addition to advancing knowledge within this area.

Design/methodology/approach

For this research, an online survey was utilized to reach out to residents in the host city during the mega-event, Solar Eclipse Weekend. Factor analysis and cluster analysis were used to analyze the results.

Findings

Using exploratory factor analysis, 305 online surveys were analyzed. Using varimax rotation, factor analysis determined four significant factors: environment, local engagement, tourism support, and infrastructure. Cluster analysis was then conducted identifying three clusters of residents labeled neutralists, supporters and enthusiasts.

Practical implications

The practical implications should be of assistance to professional event planners, city governments and destination marketing organizations. Through utilization of the information provided, community participation should be sought after throughout the planning phase and into the management and execution of large events to best gain resident support.

Originality/value

This research further explored residents' perspectives of a mega-event. While this area of research has been noted in strategic approaches to planning, managing and executing mega-events, the research on stakeholders (such as residents') perspectives is still in the infancy stage. This research contributes to advancing industry planning approaches and strategic execution, in addition to advancing academic knowledge within this area.
The Perils and Penalties of Meritocracy: Sanctioning Inequalities and Legitimating Prejudice
Authors: Reay Diane
Published: March 2020

This article deploys insights from Michael Young’s 1958 satire The Rise of the Meritocracy to challenge the dominant ideology of meritocracy in contemporary British society. It draws on ethnographic research in schools over a twenty‐five year period to illustrate the damage the illusion of meritocracy inflicts on children and young people, but particularly those from working class backgrounds. It argues that the consequences of the pretence of meritocracy are to be found in everyday practices of testing, hyper‐competition and setting, and beyond the classroom in the designation of predominantly working class schools as ‘rubbish schools for rubbish learners’. It concludes that, beyond the negative consequences for working class learners, there are wider consequences for British society, exacerbating social divisions and encouraging the growth of distrust, prejudice, envy, resentment, and contempt between different social groups.
Successful treatment of advanced lung adenocarcinoma complicated with Lambert‐Eaton myasthenic syndrome: A case report and literature review
Authors: Wang Aili , Zhang Xin , Yi Jiawen , Zhu Min , Zhang Yuhui
Published: March 2020

Lambert‐Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) is a rare disease characterized by involvement of the neuromuscular junction. Most cases have an underlying malignancy, especially small‐cell lung cancer (SCLC), while adenocarcinoma is less common. Here, we report a rare case of metastatic lung adenocarcinoma complicated with LEMS. In this case, L858R mutation was detected in the 21st exon of the EGFR gene. First‐line treatment with gefitinib was given, and the patient has survived for more than six years. Early diagnosis of LEMS and timely and effective treatment can result in a good prognosis. We also searched for “lung cancer”, or “carcinoma of lung”, or “adenocarcinoma of lung”, or “Lambert‐Eaton myasthenic syndrome” in PubMed until 1 December 2019. Seven cases of lung adenocarcinoma complicated with LEMS were found, most of which had a poor prognosis.

Key points

This article reports a rare case of metastatic lung adenocarcinoma with EGFR mutation, complicated with LEMS. Gefitinib was given as first‐line treatment, and resulted in a good prognosis.
A systematic review of population pharmacokinetic analyses of digoxin in the paediatric population
Authors: Abdel Jalil Mariam H. , Abdullah Noura , Alsous Mervat M. , Saleh Mohammad , Abu‐Hammour Khawla
Published: March 2020

This is a PROSPERO registered systematic review (CRD42018105207), conducted to summarize the available knowledge regarding the population pharmacokinetics of digoxin in paediatrics and to identify the sources of variability in its disposition. PubMed, ISI Web of Science, SCOPUS and Science Direct databases were searched from inception to January 2019. All paediatric population pharmacokinetic studies of digoxin that utilized the nonlinear mixed‐effect modelling approach were incorporated in this review, and data were synthesized descriptively. After application of the inclusion–exclusion criteria 8 studies were included. Most studies described digoxin pharmacokinetics as a 1‐compartment model with only 1 study describing its pharmacokinetics as 2‐compartments. Age was an important predictor of clearance in studies involving neonates or infants, other predictors of clearance were weight, height, serum creatinine, coadministration of spironolactone and presence of congestive heart failure. Congestive heart failure was also associated with an increased volume of distribution in 1 study. The estimated value of apparent clearance in a typical individual standardized by mean weight ranged between 0.24 and 0.56 L/h/kg, the interindividual variability in clearance ranged between 7.0 and 35.1%. Half of the studies evaluated the performance of their developed models via external evaluation. In conclusion, substantial predictors of digoxin pharmacokinetics in the paediatric population in addition to model characteristics and evaluation techniques are presented. For clinicians, clearance could be predicted using age especially in neonates or infants, weight, height, serum creatinine, coadministration of medications and disease status. For future researchers, designing pharmacokinetic studies that allow 2‐compartment modelling and linking pharmacokinetics with pharmacodynamics is recommended.
When an iconic native animal is overabundant: The koala in southern Australia
Authors: Whisson Desley A. , Ashman Kita R.
Published: March 2020

Management of overabundant native species is challenging at the best of times but is even more so when it involves an iconic species that is threatened in part of its range. Here, we examine koala overabundance, a situation that arises in some locations within the species' southern range. We consider the variable conservation status of the koala throughout its range, discuss where and why overabundance occurs, and its consequences. Programs to manage koala overabundance and impacts are generally ineffective, relying on costly and slow acting fertility control and translocation, and implemented only when a crisis already has occurred. A change in management approach is needed. Decisions should be based on an evidence‐based and transparent decision‐making framework that involves predicting where overabundance is likely, where damage costs will be high, and where proactive management is likely to be effective. With more than 65% of Australia's koala population occurring in the south and declining northern populations, a more considered approach to managing southern koalas for conservation of the species is needed.
Trust in dentist‐patient relationships: mapping the relevant concepts
Authors: Song YoungHa , Luzzi Liana , Brennan David S.
Published: March 2020

Trust has a central role in healthcare encounters. This review explored concepts relevant to trust in dentist‐patient relationships. The findings were demonstrated by drawing visual system maps for better understanding of the inherent complexity. A pragmatic approach was employed to search for evidence. The approach was initiated with a systematised searching protocol and followed by an iterative process of drawing maps and complementing references. The analysis‐synthesis process found relevant key concepts and sub‐concepts presented within three frameworks: the continuum of studying trust (utilisation, measurement, and establishment); beneficiaries of trust utilisation (patients, dentists, and oral health system); and a transformational model of trust development (identification‐based, knowledge‐based, and deterrence/calculus‐based trust). Trust in dentist‐patient relationships needs to be assessed in a multidisciplinary approach for interconnectedness among relevant concepts. The findings are represented in patient‐centred care and quality of care with common underlying values. Despite the centrality of trust in medical/dental contexts, empirical evidence is insufficient beyond normative suggestions from previous studies. Based on the implications of thematic analysis and interpretation of the system maps, this paper can serve as a guide and source of information for further research of trust in dentist‐patient relationships.
Genome‐wide association study for host genetic factors associated with equine herpesvirus type‐1 induced myeloencephalopathy
Authors: Dunuwille Wangisa M. B. , YousefiMashouf Navid , Balasuriya Udeni B. R. , Pusterla Nicola , Bailey Ernest
Published: March 2020

Background

Equid herpesvirus (EHV‐1) infections in horses can lead to equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM), characterised by neurological clinical signs. The sporadic occurrence of the disease in horse herds suggests a host genetic component. A recent study reported an association between the occurrence of EHM and genetic markers on horse chromosome 6 (ECA6).

Objectives

To investigate the association of EHM with genetic host factors, especially with reference to the association reported for ECA6.

Study design

Genome‐wide association study (GWAS) was conducted based on 94 horses that had EHV‐1 infections and comparing the 27 developing clinical EHM to the 67 which did not.

Methods

DNA samples were tested from 94 horses for 382,529 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with the Affymetrix Axiom 670K SNP array to identify possible associations with EHM. The data analysis included tests for basic, additive, dominant and recessive modes of inheritance, haplotype associations and runs of homozygosity (ROH).

Results

Results from this study did not identify significant SNPs, haplotypes or ROH associations with the development of EHM following EHV‐1 infections and excluded the involvement of a recessive genetic factor in the susceptibility to develop EHM.

Main limitations

Sample size and complex phenotype.

Conclusions

The results exclude the involvement of a recessive genetic factor in the susceptibility to develop clinically apparent EHM but do not have the power to exclude the involvement of other, complex host genetic factors. Furthermore, there was no association between development of EHM and genes on equine chromosome 6, as previously reported.
Effects of hypoxia on the behavior and physiology of kelp forest fishes
Authors: Mattiasen Evan G. , Kashef Neosha S , Stafford David M. , Logan Cheryl A. , Sogard Susan M. , Bjorkstedt Eric P. , Hamilton Scott L.
Published: March 2020

Forecasts from climate models and oceanographic observations indicate increasing deoxygenation in the global oceans and an elevated frequency and intensity of hypoxic events in the coastal zone, which have the potential to affect marine biodiversity and fisheries. Exposure to low dissolved oxygen (DO) conditions may have deleterious effects on early life stages in fishes. This study aims to identify thresholds to hypoxia while testing behavioral and physiological responses of two congeneric species of kelp forest fish to four DO levels, ranging from normoxic to hypoxic (8.7, 6.0, 4.1, and 2.2 mg O2/L). Behavioral tests identified changes in exploratory behavior and turning bias (lateralization), whereas physiological tests focused on determining changes in hypoxia tolerance (pCrit), ventilation rates, and metabolic rates, with impacts on the resulting capacity for aerobic activity. Our findings indicated that copper rockfish (Sebastes caurinus) and blue rockfish (Sebastes mystinus) express sensitivity to hypoxia; however, the strength of the response differed between species. Copper rockfish exhibited reduced absolute lateralization and increased escape time at the lowest DO levels, whereas behavioral metrics for blue rockfish did not vary with oxygen level. Both species exhibited decreases in aerobic scope (as a function of reduced maximum metabolic rate) and increases in ventilation rates to compensate for decreasing oxygen levels. Blue rockfish had a lower pCrit and stronger acclimation response compared to copper rockfish. The differences expressed by each species suggest that acclimatization to changing ocean conditions may vary, even among related species that recruit to the same kelp forest habitat, leading to winners and losers under future ocean conditions. Exposure to hypoxia can decrease individual physiological fitness through metabolic and aerobic depression and changes to anti‐predator behavior, with implications for the outcome of ecological interactions and the management of fish stocks in the face of climate change.
Dental hygiene graduates’ educational preparedness: Self‐confidence ratings of the CDHA baccalaureate competencies
Authors: Sunell Susanne , Laronde Denise M. , Kanji Zul
Published: March 2020

Purpose

In 2015, the Canadian Dental Hygienists Association (CDHA) published the first Canadian Competencies for Baccalaureate Dental Hygiene Programs (CCBDHP). To date, there is little evidence to support that baccalaureate graduates have gained these abilities. The purpose of the study was to investigate the confidence levels of baccalaureate graduates in their ability to demonstrate the CCBDHP.

Methods

An online, anonymous study was conducted with the 2013‐2016 graduates of the University of British Columbia to rate their confidence level in the 13 competency domains and associated 110 sub‐competencies of the CCBDHP based on a 5‐point scale ranging fromnot confidenttoconfident.

Results

Thirty of the 84 graduates responded to the survey for a 36% response rate. Themostly confidentandconfidentscores were added to determine the number of sub‐competencies within each domain in which 75% to 100% of respondents identified such confidence. The competency domains in which graduates expressed the highest confidence included Collaboration (100%), Communication (100%), Clinical Therapy (100%), Disease Prevention (100%), Oral Health Education (90%), Professionalism (90%), Research Use (90%) and Leadership (90%). They expressed the least confidence in the competency domains of Health Promotion (50%), Advocacy (22%) and Policy Use (0%).

Conclusion

These data provided the UBC faculty with important insights into the educational preparedness of baccalaureate graduates. The findings are also relevant for other Canadian programmes and contribute to a larger national dialogue about the CCBDHP and the transition of graduates into practice.
Fabrication of high‐purity HfSi2 powder via molten salt‐assisted magnesium thermal reduction
Authors: Du Bin , He Chao , Qian Junjie , Hu Ping , Wang Xuan , Cai Mei , Shui Anze
Published: March 2020

In this work, high‐purity HfSi2 powders were successfully fabricated via a molten salt‐assisted magnesium thermal reduction method using HfO2 and Si as raw materials. The effects of reaction temperature and time on the formation of HfSi2 were systemically investigated. The morphological and phase composition of as‐prepared HfSi2 powders were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and nitrogen/oxygen determinator. The results indicated that as‐obtained HfSi2 powders possess the orthorhombic structure with approximately 6.4 μm in size and the oxygen content as low as 0.20%. This work can provide a novel route to fabricate the high‐purity transition metal silicides powders.
Burden of respiratory viral infection in persons with human immunodeficiency virus
Authors: Sellers Subhashini A. , Dover Kenton L. , Bailey Aubrey G. , Cheves Avery , Eason Anthony B. , Popowitch Elena B. , Miller Melissa B. , Wohl David A. , Dittmer Dirk P. , Fischer William A.
Published: March 2020

This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of respiratory viral infections (RVI) in persons living with HIV (PLH) admitted with a respiratory complaint using real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and primer‐independent next‐generation sequencing (NGS). Of 82 subjects, respiratory viruses were the most common pathogen identified in 27 (33%), followed by fungus and bacteria in 8 (10%) and 4 (5%) subjects, respectively. Among subjects with RVI, 11 (41%) required ICU admission and 16 (59%) required mechanical ventilation. The proportion of respiratory viruses identified, and the associated complicated hospital course highlights the significant role that RVIs play in the lung health of PLH.
The effect of regulatory focus and time preference on the dual process of physical activity: A cross‐sectional study among nurses
Authors: Avraham Rinat , Simon‐Tuval Tzahit , Van Dijk Dina
Published: March 2020

Aims

To examine the dual process of physical activity adoption among nurses and its relationships with two personal orientations—regulatory focus—the tendency to focus on promotion (vs. prevention) goals and time preference as measured by delay discounting: the tendency to overvalue immediate rewards over long‐term ones.

Background

The dual process theory suggests that both conscious and non‐conscious processes influence the adoption of physical activity. However, the role of regulatory focus and time preference in this process was not yet examined.

Design

A cross‐sectional online survey among 143 nurses during August–November 2017.

Methods

Validated measures were used to estimate physical activity habit strength (a non‐conscious process) and intention, planning and behaviour control (conscious processes), physical activity level, regulatory focus and time preference. Multivariable ordered logit and logistic models were specified to examine determinants of both processes.

Results

Promotion focus was positively associated with having a strong habit of physical activity among nurses with moderate‐to‐low activity levels, but it was negatively associated with habit for active nurses. As for time preference, higher delay discounting was negatively associated with nurses' conscious intention to adopt physical activity and with their action planning.

Conclusion

Promotion focus and time preference are associated with both conscious and non‐conscious processes of physical activity adoption among nurses and should be considered in future health promotion interventions targeted to this population.

Impact

Promotion focus and time preference have a significant role in this dual process. Enhancing physical activity of health providers by adjusting the intervention to personal orientations may improve public health.
Unattended automated office blood pressure measurement: Time efficiency and barriers to implementation/utilization
Authors: Doane John , Flynn Michael , Archibald Marcus , Ramirez Dominick , Conroy Molly B. , Stults Barry
Published: March 2020

Unattended automated office blood pressure (BP) measurement (u‐AOBP) improves office BP measurement accuracy and reduces white‐coat BP elevation, but there are reservations about its time efficiency in primary care. We used time‐stamp methodology to measure u‐AOBP procedure times performed without a rest period in 130 patients during routine clinic visits to three primary care clinics with 2.5‐4.9 years u‐AOBP experience. We documented the clinical activities of 30 medical assistants during the u‐AOBP procedures. We also assessed MA and clinician satisfaction and knowledge about u‐AOBP performance and interpretation. Median u‐AOBP procedure time was <5 minutes, and MAs engaged in productive clinical activities during 83% of the procedures. Ninety‐three percent of MAs and 100% of clinicians in the clinics agreed that u‐AOBP is an efficient method to improve hypertension management. Barriers to effective u‐AOBP implementation and ongoing utilization included initial difficulty incorporating u‐AOBP into clinic workflow and medical staff knowledge deficiencies concerning correct u‐AOBP performance and interpretation despite prior training and experience with the procedure. Intensive u‐AOBP education and training programs are needed to facilitate effective u‐AOBP implementation into primary care. The time required to perform u‐AOBP can be utilized productively by staff.
Development of a novel dual priming oligonucleotide system‐based PCR assay for specific detection of Salmonella from food samples
Authors: Li Dan‐Dan , Hao Chun‐Bo , Liu Zhong‐Mei , Wang Sui‐Jia , Wang Yu , Chao Zhe , Gao Shen‐Yang , Chen Si
Published: March 2020

In this study, a novel dual priming oligonucleotide (DPO) system‐based polymerase chain reaction (PCR; DPO system‐based PCR) assay, which detected the fimY gene of Salmonella, was developed for the fast food testing. The DPO system‐based PCR assay allowed a wide range of annealing temperatures at 48–68°C to efficiently amplify fimY gene with an analytical detection limit of 1.2 × 102 CFU/ml for Salmonella in pure cultures and artificially contaminated food matrix. Significantly, the presence of a bubble‐like polydeoxyinosine (polyI) linker in the DPO system brought an unparalleled high specificity in the identification of target bacteria, and consequently, the false positives and mismatches of PCR process can be eliminated in priming. Applying the DPO system‐based PCR assay to 285 collected food samples revealed that 29 samples were positive in this assay, in accordance with the results of conventional culture‐based method, indicating a potential diagnostic capability. The high specificity of the DPO system‐based PCR indicates its great potential to be a quick, reliable and practical method for the detection of Salmonella in foods.
Usual intake of meat in Australians: secondary analysis of the 2011–12 National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey using the NCI method
Authors: Birrell C. L. , Neale E. P. , Probst Y. C.
Published: March 2020

Introduction

Global public health recommendations advise limiting the intake of red and processed meats. There is a need for more comprehensive information on meat consumption in Australia, specifically usual intake of meat from a nationally representative sample. The aim of this study was to use the National Cancer Institute (NCI) method to examine usual meat intakes in the 2011–12 National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey (NNPAS).

Methods

This was a secondary analysis of the cross‐sectional 2011–12 NNPAS, which contains observations for 12 153 respondents (9341 adults and 2812 children/adolescents). Usual consumption of all meat, red and processed meats was calculated using the NCI method. Consumption of meat was explored by age and gender groups, as well as by household type.

Results

Amongst adults and children/adolescents, consumption of all meat was significantly higher in males (adults: 187.1 g day−1; children/adolescents: 125.0 g day−1) than females (adults: 125.5 g day−1; children/adolescents: 95.4 g day−1). Similar patterns were observed for red (males: adults 85.5 g day−1, children/adolescents 42.9 g day−1; females: adults 57.1 g day−1, children/adolescents 34.9 g day−1) and processed meat, although intakes of processed meats in children and adolescents (males: 26.5 g day−1; females: 16.8 g day−1) were found to be similar to those of adults aged ≥19 years (males: 28.3 g day−1; females: 15.3 g day−1). Patterns of meat consumption across household types appeared to differ between genders.

Conclusions

The present study suggests that Australians are likely to be exceeding population recommendations for meat intakes, with differing patterns observed across gender and household types. These findings highlight a need for targeted dietetic and population strategies aimed at promoting a healthy consumption of meats within the Australian population.
Effects of Eucommia ulmoides leaf extracts on growth performance, antioxidant capacity and intestinal function in weaned piglets
Authors: Ding Haoxuan , Cao Aizhi , Li Haiyun , Zhao Yang , Feng Jie
Published: March 2020

Eucommia ulmoides is traditional Chinese medicine, and it possesses several potential bioactivities, such as anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant and immune regulatory activities. This study was conducted to determine the effects of dietary Eucommia ulmoides leaf extracts (ELE) on growth performance, antioxidant capacity and intestinal function of weaned piglets. Two hundred crossbred (Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire) piglets with an average initial weight of 12.96 ± 0.28 kg were randomly allotted to five treatments: C0 (basal diet), C1 (basal diet + antibiotics) and basal diet supplemented with increasing levels of ELE (0.2, 0.3 or 0.4 g/kg of feed). The results showed that ELE or antibiotics supplementation remarkably decreased diarrhoea rate and 0.3 g/kg ELE increased average daily gain compared with C0 (p < .05). 0.3 g/kg ELE increased alkaline phosphatase (AKP) levels and total antioxidant capacity (T‐AOC) in serum and liver, as well as increased the content of serum albumin and total protein (TP) compared with the C0 (p < .05). The lipase activity of duodenum content and trypsin activity of jejunum content were improved fed diets containing 0.3 g/kg ELE compared with C0 (p < .05). The 0.3 g/kg ELE treatments have a higher villus height of the duodenum and jejunum compared with the C0 (p < .05). These results suggested that ELE supplementation had beneficial effects on antioxidant and intestinal function in weaned piglets, which also could increase growth performance and decreased diarrhoea rate. Accordingly, ELE is a potential alternative to antibiotics.
“Command these elements to silence”: Ecocriticism andThe Tempest
Authors: Gray David
Published: March 2020

As part of the response in the humanities to rising concerns of the human influence on the Earth system, ecocriticism – an interdisciplinary approach to the study of literature focused on ecological and environmental concerns – became a major trend in literary and cultural studies by the first decade of the twenty‐first century. This period also witnessed an increase in ecocritical studies of Shakespeare's works, which have continued to proliferate. It is timely therefore to consider those individual works that have interested ecocritics and featured in ecocritical studies. This article will provide just such a consideration of Shakespeare's final play,The Tempest(1611), providing a critical review of the play's ecocritical studies thus far, and drawing attention to central ideas and common themes in the process. Finally, the article offers its own ecocritical analysis of the play, based on historical accounts of a catastrophic tidal event that took place in south‐west England, in 1607.
First definition of burned choroid plexus in acidic cerebrospinal fluid‐filled brain ventricles during subarachnoid hemorrhage: Experimental study
Authors: Demirci Tuba , Aydin Mehmet D. , Caglar Ozgur , Aydin Nazan , Ozmen Sevilay , Nalci Kemal A. , Ahiskalioglu Ali , Kocak Mehmet N. , Keles Sait
Published: March 2020

Blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) acidosis is the most troubling complication in subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) if carotid body (CB) networks are disrupted. However, histopathological examination of the choroid plexus (CP) in acidic CSF has not been evaluated so far. In this study, we aimed to investigate the CP in acidic CSF following SAH. Twenty‐eight rabbits were used. Five rabbits were used to analyze CB network (control group; n = 5); seven rabbits were injected 1 mL of saline (Sham group; n = 7); and the rest 16 rabbits were given 1 mL of autologous arterial blood inject into the cisterna magna to create SAH (SAH group; n = 16). Blood and CSF pH values were recorded before/during/after the experimental procedures. Nuclear darkening, cellular shrinkage and pyknosis suggested the presence of apoptosis of epithelial cells of CP. The densities of normal and degenerated epithelial cells of CPs were estimated using stereological methods. The relationship between the pH values and degenerated epithelial cell densities of CPs were statistically compared by Mann–Whitney U‐test. The pH values of blood were estimated as 7.359 ± 0.039 in the control group, 7.318 ± 0.062 in the Sham group, 7.23 ± 0.013 in the SAH group. CSF pH values were 7.313 ± 0.028 in the control group, 7.296 ± 0.045 in the Sham group, and 7.224 ± 0.012 in the SAH group. Degenerated epithelial cell density of CP was 25 ± 7 in the control group, 226 ± 64 in the Sham group, and 2115 ± 635 in the SAH group. There was a considerable link between CSF pH values and degenerated epithelial cells of CP (P < 0.0001). This study shows that CB insult causes acidosis of CSF as well as cellular degeneration of CP during SAH. This is the first description of this in the literature.
Peripheral mechanisms contribute to comorbid visceral hypersensitivity induced by preexisting orofacial pain and stress in female rats
Authors: Ji Yaping , Hu Bo , Klontz Charles , Li Jiyun , Dessem Dean , Dorsey Susan G. , Traub Richard J.
Published: March 2020

Background

Stress exacerbates many chronic pain syndromes including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Among these patient populations, many suffer from comorbid or chronic overlapping pain conditions and are predominantly female. Nevertheless, basic studies investigating chronic psychological stress‐induced changes in pain sensitivity have been mostly carried out in male rodents. Our laboratory developed a model of comorbid pain hypersensitivity (CPH) (stress in the presence of preexisting orofacial pain inducing chronic visceral pain hypersensitivity that significantly outlasts transient stress‐induced pain hypersensitivity (SIH)) facilitating the study of pain associated with IBS. Since CPH and SIH are phenotypically similar until SIH resolves and CPH persists, it is unclear if underlying mechanisms are similar.

Methods

In the present study, the visceromotor response (VMR) to colorectal distention was recorded in the SIH and CPH models in intact females and ovariectomized rats plus estradiol replacement (OVx + E2). Over several months, rats were determined to be susceptible or resilient to stress and the role of peripheral corticotrophin‐releasing factor (CRF) underlying in the pain hypersensitivity was examined.

Key Results

Stress alone induced transient (3‐4 weeks) visceral hypersensitivity, though some rats were resilient. Comorbid conditions increased susceptibility to stress prolonging hypersensitivity beyond 13 weeks. Both models had robust peripheral components; hypersensitivity was attenuated by the CRF receptor antagonist astressin and the mast cell stabilizer disodium cromoglycate (DSCG). However, DSCG was less effective in the CPH model compared to the SIH model.

Conclusions and Inferences

The data indicate many similarities but some differences in mechanisms contributing to comorbid pain conditions compared to transient stress‐induced pain.
Auditory steady‐state response at 20 Hz and 40 Hz in young typically developing children and children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Ono Yasuki , Kudoh Kiwamu , Ikeda Takashi , Takahashi Tetsuya , Yoshimura Yuko , Minabe Yoshio , Kikuchi Mitsuru
Published: March 2020

Aim

The early detection of autistic tendencies in children is essential for providing proper care and education. The auditory steady‐state response (ASSR) provides a passive, non‐invasive technique for assessing neural synchrony at specific response frequencies in many mental disorders, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but few studies have investigated its use in young children. This study investigated the ASSR at 20 Hz and 40 Hz in typically developing (TD) children and children with ASD aged 5–7 years.

Methods

The participants were 23 children with ASD and 32 TD children aged 5–7 years. Using a custom‐made magnetoencephalography device, we measured ASSR at 20 Hz and 40 Hz, compared the results between groups, and evaluated the association with intellectual function as measured by Kaufmann Assessment Battery for Children.

Results

Responses to 20 Hz and 40 Hz were clearly detected in both groups with no significant difference identified. Consistent with previous findings, right dominance of the 40‐Hz ASSR was observed in both groups. In the TD children, the right‐side 40‐Hz ASSR was correlated with age. The Kaufmann Assessment Battery for Children score was correlated with the left‐side 40‐Hz ASSR in both groups.

Conclusion

Right‐dominant ASSR was successfully detected in young TD children and children with ASD. No difference in ASSR was observed between the children with ASD and the TD children, although the right‐side 40‐Hz ASSR increased with age only in the TD children. Left‐side 40‐Hz ASSR was associated with intelligence score in both groups.
A simple, refined approach to diagnosing renovascular hypertension in children: A 10‐year study
Authors: Saida Ken , Kamei Koichi , Hamada Riku , Yoshikawa Takahisa , Kano Yuji , Nagata Hiroko , Sato Mai , Ogura Masao , Harada Ryoko , Hataya Hiroshi , Miyazaki Osamu , Nosaka Shunsuke , Ito Shuichi , Ishikura Kenji
Published: March 2020

Background

Despite advances in non‐invasive vascular imaging, detection of renal artery stenosis via catheter angiography is the criterion standard for the diagnosis of renovascular hypertension (RVH). However, because of lack of evidence, the utility of various blood tests and imaging modalities remains unclear.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the utility of blood tests (plasma renin activity [PRA], aldosterone, and renal vein renin [RVR] values) and imaging studies (computed tomography angiography [CTA], kidney ultrasonography [US]) by comparing them with catheter angiography. Ten pediatric patients with RVH at two institutions from January 2008 to December 2017 were recruited. The sensitivities for diagnosing RVH via imaging and blood tests (kidney [US], PRA, and aldosterone) were derived by examining patient records. Furthermore, the sensitivity and specificity of CT angiography were calculated by considering both the affected and non‐affected renal arteries of the patients.

Results

A high sensitivity for diagnosing RVH via kidney US (89%) and PRA (80%) was observed. The sensitivity and specificity of CTA were 100%, each. RVR sampling did not aid in the diagnosis of RVH; only two of six patients with unilateral RVH showed significant laterality of RVR boundary ratios. Renal scintigraphy facilitated detection of a non‐functional kidney (split renal function <5%).

Conclusions

RVH in children could be diagnosed utilizing non‐invasive blood and imaging tests, without catheter angiography. We recommend kidney length measurement along with measurement of PRA level, as a simple and highly useful screening test, followed by CTA as a diagnostic test.
Exchangeable Random Measures for Sparse and Modular Graphs with Overlapping Communities
Authors: Todeschini Adrien , Miscouridou Xenia , Caron François
Published: March 2020

We propose a novel statistical model for sparse networks with overlapping community structure. The model is based on representing the graph as an exchangeable point process and naturally generalizes existing probabilistic models with overlapping block structure to the sparse regime. Our construction builds on vectors of completely random measures and has interpretable parameters, each node being assigned a vector representing its levels of affiliation to some latent communities. We develop methods for efficient simulation of this class of random graphs and for scalable posterior inference. We show that the approach proposed can recover interpretable structure of real world networks and can handle graphs with thousands of nodes and tens of thousands of edges.
A new HLA‐DQA1 allele, HLA‐DQA1*01:26
Authors: Battarra Mariarosa , Guagnano Annalisa , Testa Giuseppe , Di Luzio Andrea , Andreani Marco
Published: March 2020

The novel allele HLA‐DQA1*01:26 differs from HLA‐DQA1*01:01:01:01 by one nucleotide substitution in exon 2.
Integrated analysis of transcriptome, methylome and copy number aberrations data of marginal zone lymphoma and follicular lymphoma in dog
Authors: Giannuzzi Diana , Giudice Luca , Marconato Laura , Ferraresso Serena , Giugno Rosalba , Bertoni Francesco , Aresu Luca
Published: March 2020

Marginal zone lymphoma (MZL) and follicular lymphoma (FL) are classified as indolent B‐cell lymphomas in dogs. Aside from the clinical and histopathological similarities with the human counterpart, the molecular pathogenesis remains unclear. We integrated transcriptome, genome‐wide DNA methylation and copy number aberration analysis to provide insights on the pathogenesis of canine MZL (n = 5) and FL (n = 7), also comparing them with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Transcriptome profiling highlighted the presence of similar biological processes affecting both histotypes, including BCR and TLR signalling pathways. However, FLs showed an enrichment of E2F targets, whereas MZLs were characterized by MYC‐driven transcriptional activation signatures. FLs showed a distinctive loss on chr1 containing CEACAM23 and 24, conversely MZLs presented multiple recurrent gains on chr13, where MYC is located. The distribution of methylation peaks was similar between the two histotypes. Integrating data from the three omics, FLs resulted clearly separated from MZLs and DLBCL dataset. MZLs showed the enrichment of FoxM1 network and TLR associated TICAM1‐dependent IRFs activation pathway. However, no specific signatures differentiated MZLs from DLBCLs. In conclusion, our study presents the first comprehensive analysis of molecular and epigenetic pathogenesis of canine FL and MZL.