bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The roles of wrinkle structures in the veins of Asian Ladybird and bioinspiration
Authors: Song Zelai , Yan Yongwei , Wu Wei , Tong Jin , Sun Jiyu
Published: January 2020

The deployable hind wings of the Asian ladybird beetle (Harmonia axyridis) play important roles in their flight. Wrinkle structures of veins are found on the bending zones of the hind wings ofH. axyridis. This paper investigates the effect of the wrinkle structures of the veins of the hind wing on its deformation. Based on the nanomechanical properties of the veins, morphology of the hind wing, surface structures of veins and microstructures of the cross sections, including the veins and wing membranes, we establish four three-dimensional coupling models for hind wings with/without wrinkles with different and uniform reduced modulus. Relative to the bending and twisting model shapes, Model I, which includes the wrinkle structure and different reduced-modulus veins, has much more flexibility of passive deformation to control wing deformations. The results show that both the wrinkle structures in the bending zone and varying reduced modulus of the veins contribute to the flight performance of bending and twisting deformations of the hind wings, which have important implications for the bionic design of the biomimetic deployable wing of micro air vehicles (MAVs).
Small non-coding RNA CjNC110 influences motility, autoagglutination, AI-2 localization, hydrogen peroxide sensitivity and chicken colonization inCampylobacter jejuni
Authors: Kreuder Amanda J. , Ruddell Brandon , Mou Kathy , Hassall Alan , Zhang Qijing , Plummer Paul J.
Published: January 2020

Small non-coding RNAs are involved in many important physiological functions in pathogenic microorganisms. Previous studies have identified the presence of non-coding RNAs in the major zoonotic pathogenCampylobacter jejuni, however, few have been functionally characterized to date. CjNC110 is a conserved ncRNA inC. jejuni,located downstream of theluxSgene which is responsible for the production of the quorum-sensing molecule autoinducer-2 (AI-2). In this study, we utilized strand specific high-throughput RNAseq to identify potential targets or interactive partners of CjNC110 in a sheep abortion clone ofC. jejuni. This data was then utilized to focus further phenotypic evaluation of the role of CjNC110 in motility, autoagglutination, quorum sensing, hydrogen peroxide sensitivity and chicken colonization inC. jejuni. Inactivation of the CjNC110 ncRNA led to a statistically significant decrease in autoagglutination ability as well as increased motility and hydrogen peroxide sensitivity when compared to wild-type. Extracellular AI-2 detection was decreased in ΔCjNC110, however, intracellular AI-2 accumulation was significantly increased, suggesting a key role of CjNC110 in modulating the transport of AI-2. Notably, ΔCjNC110 also showed a decreased ability to colonize chickens. Complementation of CjNC110 restored all phenotypic changes back to wild-type levels. The collective results of the phenotypic and transcriptomic changes observed in our data provide valuable insights into the pathobiology ofC. jejunisheep abortion clone and strongly suggest that CjNC110 plays an important role in regulation of energy taxis, flagellar glycosylation, cellular communication via quorum sensing, oxidative stress tolerance and chicken colonization in this important zoonotic pathogen.
In VitroProbiotic Potential of Hemophilin-producing Strains ofHaemophilus haemolyticus
Authors: Atto Brianna , Latham Roger , Kunde Dale , Gell David , Tristram Stephen
Published: January 2020

Non-typeableHaemophilus influenzae(NTHi) is a leading causative organism of opportunistic respiratory tract infections, including otitis media and acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Despite the enormous disease burden associated with NTHi infections, there are currently no effective prevention strategies, and the rapid development of antibiotic resistance is compromising treatment.

We previously discoveredHaemophilus haemolyticus(Hh) strains capable of producing haemophilin (HPL), a heme-binding protein that restricts NTHi growth by limiting its access to an essential growth factor, heme. Thus, these strains may have utility as a probiotic therapy against NTHi infection by limiting colonization, migration and subsequent infection in susceptible individuals. Here, we have assessed the feasibility of this approach byin vitrocompetition assays between NTHi and Hh strains with varying capacity to produce HPL. HPL-producing strains of Hh exhibited enhanced growth and consistently outcompeted NTHi compared to Hh strains unable to produce the protein. This competitive advantage was maintained over a period of six days, culminating in the complete eradication of NTHi. Expression analysis ofHPLduring competition coincided with the NTHi-inhibitory capacity of HPL-producers, confirming that inhibition was mediated by the presence of HPL.

Together, results suggest that natural levels of HPL production by Hh are sufficient to limit NTHi’s access to heme, even under excess heme conditions unlikely to be encounteredin vivo.Further investigation is required to determine the protective capacity of HPL-producersin vivoand their ability to interrupt NTHi colonization of host cells.
To group or not to group: group size dynamics and intestinal parasites in Indian peafowl populations
Authors: Dange Priyanka , Mhaisalkar Pranav , Paranjpe Dhanashree
Published: January 2020

Animals can form groups for various reasons including safety from predators, access to potential mates and benefits of allo-parental care. However, there are costs associated with living in a group such as competition for food and/or mates with other members of the group, higher chances of disease transmission, etc. Group size dynamics can change with the biotic and abiotic environment around individuals. In the current study, we explored the links between group size dynamics and intestinal parasites of Indian peafowl (Pavo cristatus) in the context of seasons and food provisioning. Data for group size was collected across three seasons (Pre-Monsoon, Monsoon and Post-Monsoon) at three field sites (Morachi Chincholi, Nashik and Rajasthan). Individual and group sightings of peafowl were noted down along with group size and composition (no. of males, females, adults, juveniles, sub-adults). Faecal samples were collected from food provision and non-provision areas across the same three seasons at same field sites. Parasite load in the samples was quantified using microscopic examination. Group size was significantly higher in Pre-Monsoon season as compared to Monsoon and Post-Monsoon seasons. Monsoon and Post-Monsoon seasons had higher intestinal parasite prevalence and load as compared to Pre-Monsoon season. Thus, group size and intestinal parasites of Indian peafowl have an inverse relationship across seasons. Parasite load was significantly greater at food provision sites as compared to non-provision sites while parasite prevalence was comparable. Aggregation of individuals at the food provision sites may influence the parasite transmission and group-size dynamics in Indian peafowl. In conclusion, Indian peafowl are behaviourally plastic and fission-fusion of social groups may allow them to tackle ecological pressures such as predation and parasite transmission in different seasons.
Molecular and clonal evolution in recurrent metastatic gliosarcoma
Authors: Anderson Kevin J. , Tan Aaron C. , Parkinson Jonathon , Back Michael , Kastelan Marina , Newey Allison , Brewer Janice , Wheeler Helen , Hudson Amanda L. , Amin Samirkumar B. , Johnson Kevin C. , Barthel Floris P. , Verhaak Roel G.W. , Khasraw Mustafa
Published: January 2020

We discuss the molecular evolution of gliosarcoma, a mesenchymal type of glioblastoma (GBM), using the case of a 37-yr-old woman who developed two recurrences and an extracranial metastasis. She was initially diagnosed with isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) wild-type gliosarcoma in the frontal lobe and treated with surgery followed by concurrent radiotherapy with temozolomide. Five months later the tumor recurred in the left frontal lobe, outside the initially resected area, and was treated with further surgery and radiotherapy. Six months later the patient developed a second left frontal recurrence and was again treated with surgery and radiotherapy. Six weeks later, further recurrence was observed in the brain and bone, and biopsy confirmed metastases in the pelvic bones. To understand the clonal relationships between the four tumor instances and the origin of metastasis, we performed whole-genome sequencing of the intracranial tumors and the tumor located in the right iliac bone. We compared their mutational and copy-number profiles and inferred the clonal phylogeny. The tumors harbored shared alterations in GBM driver genes, including mutations in TP53, NF1, and RB1, and CDKN2A deletion. Whole-genome doubling was identified in the first recurrence and the extracranial metastasis. Comparisons of the metastatic to intracranial tumors highlighted a high similarity in molecular profile but contrasting evidence regarding the origin of the metastasis. Subclonal reconstruction suggested a parallel evolution of the recurrent tumors, and that the metastatic tumor was largely derived from the first recurrence. We conclude that metastasis in glioma can be a late event in tumorigenesis.
Where’s the meat? An evaluation of diet and partisanship identification
Authors: Mosier Samantha L. , Rimal Arbindra P.
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to comprehensively evaluate the connection between dietary choice and partisanship affiliation among the US population. Food has the potential to be a powerful factor connected to identity and political behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

This study analyses survey data (including frequency distributions, cross-tabulations and Tobit regression models) from the Natural Marketing Institute’s 2016 LOHAS database with a total sample population of 4,134.

Findings

The results provide a platform for further exploring the interaction and effect of diet and partisan affiliation as it applies to political outcomes and market activities. This study confirms that individuals identify as either a Democrat or unaffiliated are more likely to report a vegan or vegetarian-based diet compared to Republicans. However, unaffiliated respondents are also just as likely as Republicans to report a red meat-intensive diet. Gender, race and education level are consistent explanatory factors across the entire population for influencing self-reported dietary behaviour, but location lifestyle factors, such as marital and employment status, influence partisan groups differently.

Research limitations/implications

The reliance of self-reported diet and partisan affiliation of respondents among US respondents.

Originality/value

Most research examining diet and political activities mostly stem from vegan and vegetarian identity research. This study provides a comprehensive evaluation on the relationship between diet and partisan affiliation in the broader public.
Physicochemical characterization, bioactive compounds and correlations in native fruits of western Mato Grosso do Sul
Authors: de Oliveira Marcelo Caetano , Curi Paula Nogueira , Pio Rafael , Farias Daniela da Hora , Rigote Marcio Roberto , Schiassi Maria Cecília Evangelista Vasconcelos , Pasqual Moacir , Souza Vanessa Rios de
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The native species from western Mato Grosso do Sul provide fruits with unique sensory characteristics and high nutrient concentrations. Tropical fruit consumption is increasing due to the growing recognition of the nutritional value. These fruits play important roles through the marketing of their products and nutritionally through their consumption. All fruits are edible and are used in the food industry and well sensory accepted. The purpose of this paper is to verify the physicochemical characteristics, bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity in fruits collected in the Cerrado and Pantanal biomes from western Mato Grosso do Sul.

Design/methodology/approach

The fruits of baru, bocaiuva, jatobá, jenipapo and pequi were collected. To characterize them, longitudinal diameter, transverse diameter, total soluble solids, acidity, pH, ascorbic acid, total phenolics, antioxidant capacity, total sugar, glucose and macro and micronutrient contents analysis were performed in triplicate.

Findings

Jatobá presented the highest values of vitamin C. For phenolics, baru and jatobá stood out; bocaiuva presented the highest results for sugars, while jatobá was superior for glucose. The fruits with the highest antioxidant capacity, DPPH, were pequi and baru, while via ABTS the jatobá was the highest. Baru presented higher levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, magnesium, copper, zinc and iron. The bocaiuva presented the highest results for potassium and sulfur, the jatobá calcium and manganese. Jenipapo stood out with its boron content. Magnesium presented superior results in the baru, jenipapo and bocaiuva. The results reinforce the diversity of physicochemical characteristics.

Originality/value

The increase of the flow of available information, together with the growth of multicultural influences, the search for wholesome diet and the diversity of flavors and colors make these fruits important regional development tools. Their characteristics encompass national and international exploration potential that arouse consumer interest and contribute to the pursuit of innovations. In addition, the native species mentioned above provide fruits with unique sensory characteristics. Their consumption is increasing in the markets due to the growing recognition of their nutritional value. Therefore, these fruits play important roles, economically, through the marketing of their products and nutritionally through their consumption.
Moving smallholders up rice value chain: a system dynamics approach
Authors: Tey Yeong Sheng , Ibragimov Abdulla , Brindal Mark , Sidique Shaufique F. , Abduraupov Rustam , Makhmudov Miraziz
Published: January 2020

Purpose

Paddy farmers form the backbone of food security. However, poverty plagues them despite having linked them to the rice value chain. To overcome this, the concept of involving smallholders in post-farm value chain stages is promoted. The purpose of this paper is to explore the potential of upgrading smallholder involvement in rice value chains through the adoption of a sustainability standard.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors built a system dynamic model to capture both conventional and certified sub-value chains. The latter deviates from the conventional one and capitalizes on compliance to a sustainability standard.

Findings

When compared to conventional farm gate sales methods, the simulations revealed obvious profitability of direct marketing with respect to certified sustainable rice. Although coupled with productivity growth, the simulations indicated the shift to standard adoption would likely to be both limited and slow.

Originality/value

The findings suggest that the profitability of a certified rice value chain will remain fettered. In order to enhance both farmer livelihood and food security, given the limited prospect of moving smallholders up that chain, the authors conclude that national policy should be rationalized and concentrated on the possibility of diversifying the end-use of rice through research, development and subsequent commercialization.
A collaborative scenario-based decision model for a disrupted dual-channel supply chain
Authors: Heydari Jafar , Aslani Amin , Sabbaghnia Ali
Published: January 2020

Purpose

Distribution systems usually utilize both traditional retailing channels in conjunction with e-channels. The purpose of this paper is to investigate a dual-channel supply chain, comprising a traditional retailing channel and an e-channel under disruption. By benchmarking against the centralized decision structure, the authors intend to propose a collaboration model to achieve channel coordination as well as more reliable decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

Four different channel disruption scenarios, with customers’ reaction toward disruptions, are examined, and then, optimal pricing decisions for both centralized and decentralized decision-making structures are extracted. Next, a collaboration mechanism based on the dominancy power of channel members is developed to entice all channel members to participate in channel coordination. By benchmarking the proposed collaboration model against both the decentralized/centralized structures a win–win solution is guaranteed for all channel members. In addition, the proposed model ensures more reliable decisions than the centralized structure, as it guarantees less fluctuated income levels.

Findings

This study shows, as the disruption probability grows, the channel profit decreases while the channel-retailing price increases. Furthermore, the exact alignment of the centralized decision-making approach and the proposed collaboration model is not achievable due to the problem infeasibility. Numerical experiments and sensitivity analyses benchmark the performance of the proposed collaboration mechanism against the centralized structure for the full alignment with centralized decision-making approach.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the channel conflict literature as jointly considers pricing decisions, disruptions and coordination. Further, consumers’ reaction toward disruption is analyzed through a transshipment agreement.
Critical analysis of organizational change process: evidences from a steel company
Authors: Silva Leandro Vedovato , Anholon Rosley , Rampasso Izabela Simon , Silva Dirceu , Quelhas Osvaldo Luiz Gonçalves , Leal Filho Walter , Santa-Eulalia Luis Antonio
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the main factors that influence the organizational change in a steel company.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodological procedures used were literature review and survey. The literature review allowed the listing of 24 factors and these factors were grouped into three constructs (Behavioral Aspects, Cultural Aspects and Management Aspects). The survey allowed the quantification of each factor based on information provided by employees who work in the mentioned company. The data collected were analyzed using the Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modeling technique.

Findings

For the Behavioral Aspects, the following factors were validated: fear of the unknown; insecurity and anxiety; stress and feeling of suffering. For the Cultural Aspects the following factors were validated: multiculturalism in the company; low degree of risk acceptance and low performance acceptance; excessive concerns about consensus. Finally, for the Management Aspects, the following factors were validated: lack of clarity in communications; lack of alignment of goals; lack of leadership engagement.

Originality/value

The results are valuable for the company studied and for other managers interested in subject. The findings presented here can broaden the debate about this topic and contribute with professionals that wish to evaluate the mentioned factors.
Leadership and quality management measurement models: an empirical study
Authors: Chansatitporn Natkamol , Pobkeeree Vallerut
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore, confirm and verify leadership with regards to quality management measurement models. This research focused on identifying individual staff members’ leadership attributes at the Thai National Institute of Health in relation to quality management.

Design/methodology/approach

The research instrument used in this study was a modified questionnaire on self-leadership and quality management that was distributed to the institute’s staff. Leadership and quality management construct variables were observed and measured through staff perceptions, attitudes, practices and existing facts at the institute. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modeling (SEM) were used to examine the data.

Findings

The questionnaire had a 65 percent response rate. EFA revealed six factors from 27 questionnaire items and CFA was used to confirm the measurement models that were fitted to the data. The leadership attributes of staff members at the institute were statistically associated to and impacted on quality management by SEM analysis.

Research limitations/implications

In-depth understanding of leadership and quality management could be done through a longitudinal study because the two factors would change over time. Even though this model is not a longitudinal study, it could help the institute facilitate and manage quality in practice through leadership.

Originality/value

A cross-sectional study is used to examine the effect of leadership on quality management through factor analysis and SEM, which provided empirical evidence for future research. Leadership and quality management measurement models have statistically proven to be appropriately, technically and theoretically correct by design for observing variables used in the leadership measurement model that affects quality management.
Student mental health in the healthcare professions: exploring the benefits of peer support through the Bridge Network
Authors: Felton Anne , Lambert Marissa
Published: January 2020

Purpose

Student mental health is a major challenge for higher education in the twenty-first century. Students undertaking healthcare professionally affiliated courses can experience additional pressures that negatively impact on their well-being and can make it more difficult to access support. The paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

To address some of these challenges, the Bridge Network was established in one healthcare school in a higher education institution. It is a peer support network co-produced with students studying on healthcare courses to provide group-based support to promote mental well-being. Student peer group facilitators draw on their own lived experience of mental health challenges or of being a carer. The groups provide a safe space for students who may experience mental health difficulties to share, gain support and connect with each other. This paper explores the journey of setting up the Bridge Network.

Findings

Although the group has been well received and various factors have supported its establishment, there are several difficulties that the network has faced. Power imbalances between students and academic staff have been challenging for the co-produced design, alongside enabling positive and safe discloser for healthcare students. However, the network has raised the profile of mental well-being for healthcare students and encouraged supportive conversations about the issue as well as providing enriching volunteer opportunities.

Practical implications

The Bridge Network is an innovative development reflecting best practice within mental healthcare. However, to ensure spread and sustainability, alignment with organisational strategy is required.

Originality/value

The paper explores the strengths and challenges of establishing peer support for students undertaking vocational healthcare courses.
Knowledge curation work in Wikidata WikiProject discussions
Authors: Kanke Timothy
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how editors participate in Wikidata and how they organize their work.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative study used content analysis of discussions involving data curation and negotiation in Wikidata. Activity theory was used as a conceptual framework for data collection and analysis.

Findings

The analysis identified six activities: conceptualizing the curation process, appraising objects, ingesting objects from external sources, creating collaborative infrastructure, re-organizing collaborative infrastructure and welcoming newcomers. Many of the norms and rules that were identified help regulate the activities in Wikidata.

Research limitations/implications

This study mapped Wikidata activities to curation and ontology frameworks. Results from this study provided implications for academic studies on online peer-curation work.

Practical implications

An understanding of the activities in Wikidata will help inform communities wishing to contribute data to or reuse data from Wikidata, as well as inform the design of other similar online peer-curation communities, scientific research institutional repositories, digital archives and libraries.

Originality/value

Wikidata is one of the largest knowledge curation projects on the web. The data from this project are used by other Wikimedia projects such as Wikipedia, as well as major search engines. This study explores an aspect of Wikidata WikiProject editors to the author’s knowledge has yet to be researched.
Information-seeking in multilingual digital libraries
Authors: Alsalmi Hany M.
Published: January 2020

Purpose

Less attention has been paid to users’ interactions and behavior in studying multilingual search. Although digital library researchers have yet to assess user interaction and behavior in multilingual search, they have concurred that there is a need for user studies that document the extent to which information retrieval systems meet multilingual users’ needs and expectations. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is composed of five individual cases. The case study participants were Saudi students enrolled either at a large state university or Historically Black College and University located in the same community. Research questions are, what do Saudi Digital Library (SDL) users experience when searching within the SDL in Arabic and English? And what strategies do they use if they fail to find resources? Data collected for this study were via a qualitative method called video-stimulated recall.

Findings

In the Arabic search tasks, participants realized that finding resources is not easy. Participants expressed their concerns about the lack of relevance and accuracy of results returned by the search system, indicating weak trust and confidence in the search system. Whereas in the English search task, participants felt more satisfied and confident in their ability to trust the results returned from the search system. Participants expressed their satisfaction in the search experience as it provided them with accurate and varying resources. The participants faced difficulties finding Arabic resources than English resources in the SDL.

Originality/value

This study is considered one of the earliest works in studying the information-seeking behavior of multilingual digital libraries in the Arabic language. The value of this study arises as being the first study to investigate and report the information-seeking behavior of SDL users.
An empirical examination of UTAUT model and social network analysis
Authors: Xu Zhaoyi , Li Yingtong , Hao Liuchang
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to ensure the sustainability of the competitive advantages of internet financial enterprises. In recent years, driven by the two wheels of financial market and information technology, the internet finance has experienced an extremely rapid development.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the performance expectation, effort expectation, social influence and purchase intention of UTAUT model, an empirical examination was conducted. Specifically, the authors made the user purchasing behavior as the dependent variable and added some new factors such as perceived risk, individual innovation and product cognition as the independent variables in the model, and they also added user gender and experience as regulated variables, so as to study the impact factors that affect the purchasing behavior. In addition, the authors also studied the impact of social network friend recommendations on consumers’ willingness to purchase.

Findings

The research results showed that effort expectation, performance expectancy, effort expectancy, purchase intention, awareness and individual innovation have a positive effect on the behavior of buying financial products, whereas the perceived risk has a negative effect on the behavior of buying internet financial products. Additionally, in the context of social networking, social network friend recommendations have a positive impact on consumers’ willingness to purchase.

Research limitations/implications

This paper is based on the integrated technology acceptance model, which makes the user purchasing behavior as the dependent variable and adds some new factors such as perceived risk, individual innovation and product cognition as the independent variables. However, the research on recommendation between social network friends is not deep enough, so further improvement is needed.

Practical implications

This study can enrich the existing theories on the interpretation of the intention of using internet financial products, help internet financial enterprises understand user behavior and demands better, and improve service quality and customer satisfaction.

Originality/value

This study provides an empirical examination of UTAUT model and social network analysis.
Relevance of salespeople profiles: an analysis in an emerging economy
Authors: Arditto Luis , Cambra-Fierro Jesus , Olavarría Ana , Vazquez-Carrasco Rosario
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the impact of the salespeople profile (i.e., effort, commitment and creativity) – and its degree of market orientation (MO) – on the success of new product launch and sales outcomes. An emerging economy context is taken as a reference.

Design/methodology/approach

A structural equations model is proposed. The data are based on a sample of retail sector sales managers in Peru.

Findings

The results indicate that salespeople effort, creativity and degree of MO influence overall sales performance. Salespeople commitment, however, does not have a significant impact. These antecedents are helpful when attempting to understand both the potential success of a new product and sales outcomes.

Originality/value

There is no evidence to date of studies that simultaneously assess the impact of seller profiles and degree of MO on new product launch success and sales outcomes. This paper breaks new ground in analyzing this phenomenon in the context of an emerging economy. The findings are of general interest both for sales force management and for companies interested in familiarizing themselves with the peculiarities of emerging economies and the potential need to adapt policies to these specific realities.
Bioavailability and metabolism of chlorogenic acids (acyl‐quinic acids) in humans
Authors: Clifford Michael N. , Kerimi Asimina , Williamson Gary
Published: January 2020

Acyl‐quinic acids (chlorogenic acids) are produced by many plants, including fruits, vegetables, and herbal remedies, with coffee and maté particularly rich dietary sources. Epidemiological and intervention studies suggest that they can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This review addresses their metabolic handling after oral consumption to provide a mechanistic basis to explain their possible effects on health. Intact acyl‐quinic acids are absorbed only to a small extent in the small intestine, but the cinnamic acids are efficiently absorbed after hydrolysis by either digestive or microbial enzymes in the colon. Metabolism results in phenolic conjugates in the blood and urine, but varying dependent on the acyl‐quinic acid, and subject to significant interperson variability. The balance between hydrogenation and complete β‐oxidation of the cinnamic acids, both by liver and gut microbiota, determines the profile of metabolites. Pharmacokinetic data suggest that some metabolites are bound to human serum albumin and/or sequestered in tissues, and some exhibit biological activity in vitro, consistent with proposed protective action in vivo. Significant gaps in the literature include lack of plasma and urinary data for free‐living individuals, and pharmacokinetic data for groups who consume coffee or maté at regular short intervals. Data are required forcisisomers. There is a critical need for precise urinary biomarkers of consumption of acyl‐quinic acids, accounting for variability in individual metabolism and in beverage composition, thus facilitating better translation of urinary metabolite measurements into accurate coffee consumption data to improve the outcomes of future epidemiological and intervention studies.
Influence of Lactobacillus brevis on metabolite changes in bacteria‐fermented sufu
Authors: Bao Wenjing , Huang Xiaoning , Liu Jingjing , Han Beizhong , Chen Jingyu
Published: January 2020

Sufu is a form of food derived from traditional Chinese fermented soybean. It has a unique flavor and contains abundant nutrients. With demands for healthy food on the rise, a higher level of sufu functionality is required. In fermentation of soybean‐derived products, lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are widely used as an adjunct culture, which provides health benefits and enhances flavor of food. Among LAB, Lactobacillus brevis has the potential to generate γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is well‐known for its physiological functions. In this study, L. brevis was added to bacteria‐fermented sufu to evaluate its impacts on sufu quality. Sufu was produced via co‐inoculation with Bacillus subtilis and L. brevis (group A sufu) or a single inoculation with B. subtilis (group B sufu). Metabolite changes in the two groups during fermentation were investigated and physicochemical changes were observed. The results indicated that the addition of L. brevis increased the concentration of GABA and decreased the concentrations of histamine and serotonin. The concentrations of volatile compounds, such as esters and acids, especially 2‐methyl‐butanoic acid ethyl ester, as well as the concentrations of phenylethyl alcohol and 3‐methyl‐butanol were significantly higher in group A. Inoculation of L. brevis changed the metabolite profile of sufu and improved its functionality and safety of edibility. The current study explored the potential of applying L. brevis to the manufacture of bacteria‐fermented sufu.
Cystic fibrosis in the year 2020: A disease with a new face
Authors: De Boeck Kris
Published: January 2020

The autosomal recessive disease cystic fibrosis (CF) was once untreatable and deadly in childhood, but now most patients survive to adulthood. Many countries have instituted CF newborn screening because early diagnosis improves outcome. CF research has greatly intensified following the discovery of the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, which has more than 2000 different mutations. For patients with common mutations like F508del, CFTR modulators are life transforming and may even prevent major complications if started early in childhood. For some patients with rare CFTR mutations, a treatment path still needs to be developed. Conclusion: This review provides a general update on CF, including screening and current and future treatment.
Perinatal risk factors and reactive attachment disorder: A nationwide population‐based study
Authors: Upadhyaya Subina , Chudal Roshan , Luntamo Terhi , Hinkka‐Yli‐Salomäki Susanna , Sucksdorff Minna , Lehtonen Liisa , Sourander Andre
Published: January 2020

Aim

To examine the association between several perinatal and obstetric risk factors and reactive attachment disorder in children diagnosed in specialised services.

Methods

In this nested case‐control study, 614 cases with reactive attachment disorder and 2423 controls matched with age and sex were identified from Finnish national registers. Conditional logistic regression was used to examine the association between a number of perinatal risk factors and reactive attachment disorder.

Results

In the adjusted analysis, a low birthweight of <2500 g was associated with an increased odds of reactive attachment disorder, with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.96 and 95% confidence interval (CI) of 1.17, 3.30 and a birthweight of 4000‐4499 grams was associated with decreased odds OR 0.49 (95% CI 0.31, 0.75). The odds for being diagnosed with reactive attachment disorder increased with a gestational age of <32 weeks OR 3.72 (95% CI 1.52, 9.10), induced labour OR 1.34 (95% CI 1.03, 1.75) and monitoring in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) OR 1.67 (95% CI 1.09, 2.55).

Conclusion

We found associations between low birthweight, preterm birth, NICU admission and reactive attachment disorder. The findings add to the current literature on the understanding of the development of reactive attachment disorder in children.
Promising results from an implemented treatment model for paediatric obesity
Authors: Hagman Emilia , Bohlin Anna , Klaesson Sven , Ejderhamn Jan , Danielsson Pernilla
Published: January 2020

Aim

To investigate the implementation of a plan of action for treatment of childhood obesity, and the effect after 2 years of treatment.

Methods

Children aged 6‐12.9 years who started obesity treatment between 2008 and 2015 in a paediatric clinic in Stockholm County were included. The treatment model included staff education and support and group activities for parents and children separately followed by individual sessions to a multidisciplinary team. The main outcome was change in body mass index standard deviation score (BMI SDS), in comparison to a matched control group.

Results

In the intervention group, 1334 children (52% boys) with an average age of 9.3 years and BMI SDS of 2.7 and 3012 children in the control group were included. The intervention group decreased their BMI SDS more after two years compared with the control group, (−0.31 vs −0.23, P < .001). Younger age and higher BMI SDS at treatment initiation and families that completed the group sessions (all P < .001) had greater decreases in BMI SDS after 2 years. Sex did not affect the outcome.

Conclusion

Even though the treatment in the control group was effective, the implementation of the action plan yielded a better treatment response compared with the control group.
Reference data for testicular volume measured with ultrasound and pubic hair in Norwegian boys are comparable with Northern European populations
Authors: Oehme Ninnie Helen Bakken , Roelants Mathieu , Særvold Bruserud Ingvild , Madsen Andre , Eide Geir Egil , Bjerknes Robert , Rosendahl Karen , Juliusson Petur B.
Published: January 2020

Aim

To estimate references for testicular volume measured with ultrasound and Tanner stages of pubic hair in Norwegian boys, and to compare the timing of puberty with data from similar populations.

Methods

Testicular volume was derived from ultrasound measurements of testicular volume in a cross‐sectional study of 514 healthy boys. A continuous testicular volume for age reference curve was estimated with the LMS method. Tanner stages for pubic hair were clinically assessed in 452 boys. Age references for pubertal milestones were estimated with probit regression.

Results

Puberty onset, defined by an ultrasound testicular volume of 2.7 mL, equivalent to an orchidometer volume of 4 mL, occurred at a mean (SD) age of 11.7 (1.1) years. The reference range was 9.7 (3rd) to 13.7 years (97th percentile). Pubic hair (Tanner stage 2) appeared on average at 11.8 (1.2) years with a corresponding reference range of 9.5‐14.1 years.

Conclusion

The references for testicular volume measured with ultrasound are continuous in age and allow for the quantification of pubertal development. The age distribution of reaching pubertal milestones was comparable with data from other Northern European countries.
Phenotypic spectrum of TGFB3 disease‐causing variants in a Dutch‐French cohort and first report of a homozygous patient
Authors: Marsili Luisa , Overwater Eline , Hanna Nadine , Baujat Geneviève , Baars Marieke J.H. , Boileau Catherine , Bonneau Dominique , Brehin Anne Claire , Capri Yline , Cheung Ho Y. , Dulfer Eelco , Gerard Marion , Gouya Laurent , Hilhorst‐Hofstee Yvonne , Houweling Arjan C. , Isidor Bertrand , Le Gloan Lauriane , Menke Leonie A. , Odent Sylvie , Morice‐Picard Fanny , Vanlerberghe Clemence , Voorhoeve Els , van Tintelen J. Peter , Maugeri Alessandra , Arnaud Pauline
Published: January 2020

Disease‐causing variants in TGFB3 cause an autosomal dominant connective tissue disorder which is hard to phenotypically delineate because of the small number of identified cases. The purpose of this retrospective cross‐sectional multicenter study is to elucidate the genotype and phenotype in an international cohort of TGFB3 patients. Eleven (eight novel) TGFB3 disease‐causing variants were identified in 32 patients (17 families). Aortic root dilatation and mitral valve disease represented the most common cardiovascular findings, reported in 29% and 32% of patients, respectively. Dissection involving distal aortic segments occurred in two patients at age 50 and 52 years. A high frequency of systemic features (65% high‐arched palate, 63% arachnodactyly, 57% pectus deformity, 52% joint hypermobility) was observed. In familial cases, incomplete penetrance and variable clinical expressivity were noted. Our cohort included the first described homozygous patient, who presented with a more severe phenotype compared to her heterozygous relatives. In conclusion, TGFB3 variants were associated with a high percentage of systemic features and aortic disease (dilatation/dissection) in 35% of patients. No deaths occurred from cardiovascular events or pregnancy‐related complications. Nevertheless, homozygosity may be driving a more severe phenotype.
Performance of value‐ and size‐based strategies in the Italian stock market
Authors: Pirogova Anna , Roma Antonio
Published: January 2020

This paper investigates the performance of size‐ and value‐based strategies in the Italian stock market in the period 2000–2018. Previous research argued the impossibility to define properly value‐sorted portfolios due to the inaccuracy of book‐to‐market ratios available for Italian listed stocks. Using more accurate data, we implement portfolios sorting based on value and growth stocks, to assess the relevance of the value factor in the Italian stock market. We find that the capital asset pricing model fails to explain the cross‐section of returns on the different strategies while the Fama and French three‐factor model provides a better fit. The results show that all three factors are significant in explaining Italian stock returns during the sample period. Unlike previous studies, which either found no value effect at all or no clear‐cut results when testing the book‐to‐market variable, we find that the value factor is statistically significant and the associated risk premium is of a considerable size.
An Immanent Critique of Critical Pedagogy
Authors: Wheeler‐Bell Quentin
Published: January 2020

In this essay, Quentin Wheeler‐Bell aims to reframe recent attempts to rethink the core principles of critical pedagogy. He argues that these attempts have been unsuccessful because they reproduce a deeper problem — specifically, an identity crisis — within critical pedagogy. The source of this problem, he contends, is that those working in this tradition have, over time, become more distant from and forgetful of its roots in critical theory; as a result, critical pedagogy is now in a state of dilution and fragmentation in which critical pedagogues are unable to bring the plurality of critical education approaches together theoretically around a set of shared principles. In order to address this problem and begin to reframe the core principles of critical pedagogy, Wheeler‐Bell first briefly sketches the debates around Max Horkheimer's classic essay “Critical Theory and Traditional Theory,” focusing on why critical theory grew into an interdisciplinary tradition situated between philosophy and social science. Then he explains why the recent attempts to rethink critical pedagogy rely upon a problematic, albeit dominant, narrative of the critical education tradition — a narrative that only tacitly recognizes a connection between critical education and critical theory. This dominant narrative contributes to the identity crisis within critical education because it supports a collective memory loss regarding the importance of both philosophy and social science to critical theory. Finally, Wheeler‐Bell attempts to develop a thin definition of critical education: one that connects critical education back to its roots in critical theory, while respecting the plurality of critical education approaches.
Children's Ideals as a Philosophical Topic
Authors: Stojanov Krassimir
Published: January 2020

Several decades ago psychoanalyst Heinz Kohut pointed out that ideals should be seen as a core dimension of the infantile personality — a dimension that is crucial for the self's formation and the flourishing of the self. In this essay, Krassimir Stojanov begins by reconstructing Kohut's conception of children's ideals, and then, drawing on Axel Honneth's philosophical conception of intersubjective recognition, he explicates the social and pedagogical prerequisites for the formation of ideals and their transformation into values. According to Honneth's conception, the emergence and development of a coherent, autonomous self depend on various forms of intersubjective recognition, specifically empathy, cognitive respect, and social esteem. One of Stojanov's central claims here is that the educational practice of philosophizing with children is probably best equipped to provide children and adolescents with those experiences of intersubjective recognition that enable the articulation of infantile ideals and the transformation of those ideals into values. This practice is essential to development of the self because these articulations and transformations are basic preconditions for living a free and autonomous human life. Moreover, this practice is also important to the “rechilding” of philosophy — that is, the process of revitalizing philosophy through getting in touch with children's ideals. Thus, Stojanov concludes, these ideals deserve social esteem precisely because of their childish character.
Usable, in‐use, and useful research: A 3U framework for demonstrating practice impact
Authors: Pan Shan L. , Pee L. G.
Published: January 2020

In addition to innate curiosity, many of us also see scientific research as a way of making the world a better place. There has been a drive to better understand and observe the practical and societal impact of research, led by researchers seeking to find meaning and purpose in their work, as well as government agencies responsible for allocating research funding to maximum effect. Despite a wealth of guidance from researchers discussing impact and agencies evaluating impact, making practice impact visible and demonstrable remains arduous to researchers because it appears to be possible only at the end of a long and winding pathway to impact. This article presents a framework for demonstrating practice impact as it is being realized progressively, rather than only at the end of the pathway. It identifies usable, in‐use, and useful research outputs, with each having cumulative and demonstrable practice impact. Our analyses of existing impact evaluation guidelines and top‐ranked impact cases submitted to the Research Excellence Framework 2014 showed that all three forms of impact can be demonstrated and are recognized as practice impact. Framing impact in terms of “use” inherently connects the perspectives of researchers and beneficiary users and positions users as co‐producers of impact rather than passive objects and recipients of research. The 3U framework is descriptive as well as prescriptive. It identifies impact indicators for each form of impact. It also indicates the necessary actions for strengthening impact. When applied iteratively, the 3U framework facilitates the identification and pursuit of new research questions that will further solidify a research endeavour's practice impact.
Donor compliance research: what are you thinking?
Authors: Custer Brian , Hughes Shana D.
Published: January 2020

See article on page 73–83, in this issue
Rolling in to Save the Day
Authors: Kosowatz John , Borge Richard
Published: January 2020

A robust robotic system for assisting firefighters, police, and minesweeping crews.