bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A prospective evaluation and management of different types of placenta praevia using parallel vertical compression suture to preserve uterus
Authors: Ratiu Adrian C. , Crisan Doru C.
Published: November 2018

The rising tendency of cesarean sections will lead invariably to more complications such as placenta praevia. The aim of our study was to evaluate the utility of parallel vertical compression suture to preserve uterus in cases of placenta praevia, and to propose a rational approach of these problematic cases, according to their grade of myometrial invasion.

We prospectively included 95 consecutive cases diagnosed with placenta praevia (group1 [Gr1]) where we used parallel compression suture and compared to retrospectively analyzed 100 consecutive cases managed without using this technique (group 2 [Gr2]). We differentiated the types of placenta praevia according to their invasion in myometrium because this parameter appreciates best their degree of severity, so we had 4 Grs: simple praevia (no adherent), accreta, increta, and percreta. All patients underwent ultrasound evaluation before surgery. Cesarean section was planned at 35 to 36 weeks. The main goal was to preserve the uterus whenever was possible. After opening the peritoneal cavity, we first inspected the lower segment and bladder. If no signs of engorged and tortuous vessels we dissected first the bladder and then performed a transverse hysterotomy, removed the placenta and placed 2 parallel vertical sutures on the lower segment below the hysterotomy incision through the entire thickness of both uterine walls. In cases of massively engorged vessels we dissected the bladder after infant delivery and made a transverse uterine incision slightly higher. We measured the amount of blood loss and performed three postoperative ultrasound exams, on day 2, 4 and at 6 to 8 weeks.

Using this technique, we were able to preserve the uterus in 98.33% of Gr1 versus 78.47% from Gr2 of simple placenta praevia, in 88.23% in Gr1 compared to 42.86% in Gr2 of placenta accreta, only in 14.28% of increta type and in none (0%) of the 2 cases with placenta percreta.

The simplified compression technique for hemostasis and preserving uterus in cases of simple placenta praevia and accreta is easy to perform without special surgical skills and is rapid. There are no short and long-time complications related to the technique. In cases of placenta increta the problem is not that this technique is unsuccessful but getting to that point to place the sutures is difficult. In severe cases of placenta percreta, unfortunately, the hysterectomy remains the treatment of choice.
Serum levels of fetuin-A are negatively associated with log transformation levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone in patients with hyperthyroidism or euthyroidism
Authors: Tseng Fen-Yu , Chen Yen-Ting , Chi Yu-Chiao , Chen Pei-Lung , Yang Wei-Shiung
Published: November 2018

Fetuin-A is a protein with various biological functions. It plays a role in insulin resistance and arterial calcium deposition. Thyroid dysfunction may affect energy expenditure, glucose metabolism, and the risk of cardiovascular diseases. In the present study, we compared the serum fetuin-A concentrations in hyperthyroid patients with those in euthyroid patients.

We recruited 30 newly-diagnosed hyperthyroid patients (the HY group) and treated them with anti-thyroid regimens as clinically indicated. We recruited 30 euthyroid individuals (the EU group) as controls. We compared laboratory parameters at the baseline and at 6 months. We then determined the associations between the levels of fetuin-A and free thyroxine (fT4), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), or log transformation of TSH (logTSH).

At the baseline, the HY patients had significantly higher serum fetuin-A levels than the EU patients (median [Q1, Q3]: 735.4 [537.9, 843.4] ng/mL vs 561.1[449.2, 670.5] ng/mL, P = .010). At 6 months, the serum fetuin-A levels of the HY patients decreased but were still higher than those of the EU patients (698.4 [627.6, 924.3] ng/mL vs 616.5 [498.2, 727.7] ng/mL, P = .002). At baseline, the serum levels of fetuin-A were negatively associated with logTSH (β = –53.79, P = .010). At 6 months, the levels of fetuin-A were positively associated with fT4 (β = 86.91, P = .039), and negatively associated with logTSH (β = –104.28, P < .001). Changes to the levels of fetuin-A within 6 months were negatively associated with changes to logTSH (β = –57.80, P = .019). The negative associations between fetuin-A levels and logTSH at baseline and at 6 months, and the changes during the 6 months remained significant after adjustment for sex and age (β = –51.72, P = .016; β = –103.11, P < .001; and β = –59.36, P = .020, respectively).

The patients with hyperthyroidism had higher serum fetuin-A levels than the patients with euthyroidism. In patients with hyperthyroidism, the serum fetuin-A concentrations decreased after the anti-thyroid treatment. In the present study, serum fetuin-A concentrations were negatively associated with logTSH.
Periodic paralysis with normokalemia in a patient with hyperthyroidism
Authors: Wang Pin-Han , Liu Kuan-Ting , Wu Yen-Hung , Yeh I-Jeng
Published: November 2018

Rationale:

Thyrotoxic periodic paralysis is characterized by a sudden onset of hypokalemia and paralysis. This condition mainly affects the lower extremities and is secondary to thyrotoxicosis. The underlying hyperthyroidism is often subtle without typical symptoms such as palpitations, tremors, anxiety, and weight loss; this causes a difficulty in early diagnosis. Here, we reported a case of periodic paralysis in a patient with hyperthyroidism whose potassium level was within the normal range.

Patient concerns:

A 33-year-old Taiwanese man presented to the emergency department with bilateral limb weakness (more severe in the lower limbs than in the upper limbs). On arrival, the patient's vital status was stable with clear consciousness. He denied experiencing recent trauma, back pain, chest pain, abdominal pain, headache or dizziness, or a fever episode. Physical examination showed no specific findings. Neurological examination showed weakness in the muscles of the bilateral upper and lower limbs. Muscle weakness was more severe in the proximal site than in the distal site.

Diagnosis:

Blood examination showed normal complete blood count, normal renal and liver function, and normal potassium (3.5 mmol/L, normal range 3.5–5.1 mmol/L), sodium, and calcium levels; however, the examination showed impaired thyroid function (thyroid stimulating hormone: 0.04 uIU/mL, normal range 0.34–5.60 uIU/mL; free T4: 1.96 ng/dL, normal range 0.61–1.12 ng/dL). Brain computed tomography without contrast showed no obvious intra-cranial lesion.

Interventions:

Intravenous potassium infusion (20 mEq/L) with normal saline was prescribed for the patient.

Outcomes:

After treatment, the patient felt a decrease in limb weakness. He was discharged from our emergency department with a scheduled follow-up in the endocrine outpatient department.

Lessons:

TPP should be considered as a differential diagnosis in young Asian men presenting with limb paralysis that is more severe in the proximal site and in the lower limbs than in the distal site and in the upper limbs, respectively. It is important for emergency department physicians to consider TPP as a differential diagnosis as it can occur even if the patient's potassium level is within the normal range.
Isolated hook of hamate fracture in sports that require a strong grip comprehensive literature review
Authors: Kim Heejae , Kwon Bumsun , Kim Jihyun , Nam Kiyeun
Published: November 2018

Background:

The aim of the study was to report characteristics of isolated hook of hamate fractures related to sports that require a strong grip and to identify factors affecting early diagnosis and recovery period.

Methods:

A comprehensive literature search was conducted using MEDLINE, EMBASE, SCOPUS, Web of Science, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, and the clinical trials registry and database of the US National Institutes of Health (ClinicalTrials.gov). There were no limits on the language or year of publication.

This article included case reports and literature reviews for patients with isolated hook of hamate fractures related to sports that require a strong grip from 1977 to 2016.

Two experienced reviewers extracted data from each study. The following data were extracted: sample size, patient's characteristics, cause of injury, injury side, time to diagnosis and symptoms, physical examination results, diagnostic work-up, treatment, complications, and recovery period.

Results:

A total of 21 case reports and literature reviews with 120 patients satisfied our inclusion criteria. There was no significant difference in the time to diagnosis between the group before computed tomography (CT) was widely used and the group after CT was widely used. Recovery period showed a positive relationship with age (coefficient = 0.418, P < .01), time from injury to diagnosis or surgery (coefficient = 0.206, P < .05), and type of athlete (coefficient = 0.270, P < .01). On multiple stepwise regression analysis, recovery period was significantly associated with age (β = 0.418, P = .00), but not with time from injury to diagnosis or surgery.

Conclusions:

Advance in diagnostic techniques does not guarantee early diagnosis of hook of hamate fractures. Strong suspicion of the disease with physical examination and carefully hearing patient's history are important for early diagnosis and management for patients with hook of hamate fractures.
Ability of preschoolers to achieve maximal exercise and its correlation with oxygen uptake efficiency slope ∼ an observational study by direct cardiopulmonary exercise testing
Authors: Tuan Sheng-Hui , Su Hung-Tzu , Chen Yi-Jen , Chen Chia-Hsin , Tsai Wan-Jung , Chen Guan-Bo , Lin Ko-Long
Published: November 2018

The oxygen uptake efficiency slope (OUES) is a well-established substitute for maximum oxygen uptake (

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O2 max) in submaximal exercise effort among adolescents and adults. Few studies have analyzed the exercise capacity (EC) and OUES of children aged 4 to 6 (preschoolers). Body fat has been proved to negatively affect EC among schoolchildren. The purposes of this study were to assess the capacity of preschoolers in achieving

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O2 max and evaluate the correlation of peak metabolic equivalent (peak MET) and peak oxygen consumption (peak O2) with OUES. We also evaluated if body fat affected EC among preschoolers.

Forty-three preschoolers under the ramped Bruce protocol of treadmill exercise testing had been retrospectively studied. The criteria for achieving

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O2 max included respiratory exchange ratio (RER) >1.1, heart rate (HR) >85% of age-predicted maximum, and HR >200 bpm. OUES was calculated by the 75% (OUES-75) and the entire (OUES-100) duration of the testing and normalized by body surface area. Body fat was measured using vector bioelectrical impedance analysis. The fat mass (FM) index and fat-free mass index (FFMI) were defined as FM or FFM (kg) divided by height squared (m2), respectively.

The mean age of the participants was 5.70 ± 0.56. Seventy-nine percent of preschoolers met at least 1 criterion, 36.84% met 2 criteria, and none met all 3 criteria for

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O2. OUES-75 was moderately positively correlated with peak MET (P = .034; Spearman's rho = 0.324) and peak O2 (P <.001; Spearman's rho = 0.667). OUES-100 was moderately to highly positively correlated with peak MET (P <.001; Spearman's rho = 0.592) and peak O2 (P <.001; Spearman's rho = 0.825). There were moderate to high positive correlations between FFMI and peak O2 (P <.001; Spearman's rho = 0.668), OUES-75 (P <.001; Spearman's rho = 0.642), and OUES-100 (P < .001; Spearman's rho = 0.670).

None of the preschoolers reached all 3 criteria for

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O2max. OUES-75 and OUES-100 might be indicators of peak O2 at submaximal effort. Preschoolers with higher FFMI had better EC during treadmill exercise testing.
Prenatal diagnosis and pregnancy outcome analysis of thickened nuchal fold in the second trimester
Authors: Li Lushan , Fu Fang , Li Ru , Liu Zequn , Liao Can
Published: November 2018

To summarize the results of prenatal diagnoses and pregnancy outcomes of fetuses with thickened nuchal fold (TNF) in the second trimester.

From 2009 to 2016, we studied 72 pregnant women with fetal nuchal fold (NF) measurements over 5 mm at 14 to 19 + 6 weeks or 6 mm at 20 to 28 weeks of gestation who received prenatal diagnosis. Karyotypes were first used to detect common chromosomal diseases, and then chromosome microarray analysis (CMA) was performed if karyotypes were normal. Prognoses were followed up by documentation in the hospital or over the telephone.

In total, 12 fetuses with chromosomal defects, including 5 pathogenic copy number variants (CNVs) were detected. The risk of chromosomal defects when a TNF was associated with structural malformations (SMs) (35.5%) was much greater than that of an isolated TNF (3.7%) and a TNF associated with soft markers (0%). The rate of SMs when the NF measured ≥10 mm was greater than that NF measured 5 to 7.9 mm or 8 to 9.9 mm. Totally 27 fetuses had adverse pregnancy outcome.

A TNF is not only associated with a high risk of trisomy 21 but also with other chromosomal abnormalities, including pathogenic CNVs. The rates of SMs and adverse outcomes increase when the NF thickness increases.
Impairments in Postural Control and Retest Reliability of Dynamic Posturographic Measures After Lung Transplantation
Authors: Ebenbichler Gerold , Doblhammer Stephan , Pachner Melanie , Habenicht Richard , Kienbacher Thomas , Mair Patrick , Zemková Erika , Hirjaková Zuzana , Jaksch Peter , Klepetko Walter
Published: November 2018

Objectives

The aims of the study were to classify impairments in postural control using computerized posturography in lung transplant recipients undergoing subacute rehabilitation and to examine the retest reliability of these measures.

Methods

In a prospective repeated-measures study, 50 lung transplant recipients underwent clinical and quantitative posturographic testing (SMART EquiTest), which included the sensory organization test, motor control test, and limits of stability test. Testing was repeated after 1 to 2 days and upon completion of rehabilitation, 2 mos later. Main outcome measures were the following: sensory organization test–composite score, motor control test–latency and amplitude scaling, limits of stability test–movement velocity, and endpoint excursion/maximum excursion.

Results

At the beginning of rehabilitation, the mean sensory organization test–composite score and limits of stability test, but not the motor control test scores, were below normative reference values and and did not return to normal after rehabilitation. Intraclass correlation coefficients(2,1) yielded excellent relative reliability for all posturographic tests. The smallest detectable differences observed for the sensory organization test and limits of stability test exceeded the mean changes observed upon completion of rehabilitation.

Conclusions

Impairments in sensory and anticipatory postural control were insufficiently restored after subacute lung transplantation rehabilitation. The little sensitivity of the sensory organization test-composite score or limits of stability test scores to detect a minimal change in performance due to rehabilitation limits the clinical applicability of these tests as objective outcome measures in lung transplantation rehabilitation.
Laboratory-Reflex Cryptococcal Antigen Screening Is Associated With a Survival Benefit in Tanzania
Authors: Faini Diana , Kalinjuma Aneth Vedastus , Katende Andrew , Mbwaji Gladys , Mnzava Dorcas , Nyuri Amina , Glass Tracy R. , Furrer Hansjakob , Hatz Christoph , Boulware David R. , Letang Emilio ,   on behalf of the KIULARCO Study Group
Published: November 2018

Background:

Cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) screening in persons with advanced HIV/AIDS is recommended to prevent death. Implementing CrAg screening only in outpatients may underestimate the true CrAg prevalence and decrease its potential impact. Our previous 12-month survival/retention in CrAg-positive persons not treated with fluconazole was 0%.

Methods:

HIV testing was offered to all antiretroviral therapy–naive outpatients and hospitalized patients in Ifakara, Tanzania, followed by laboratory-reflex CrAg screening for CD4 <150 cells/μL. CrAg-positive individuals were offered lumbar punctures, and antifungals were tailored to the presence/absence of meningitis. We assessed the impact on survival and retention-in-care using multivariate Cox-regression models.

Results:

We screened 560 individuals for CrAg. The median CD4 count was 61 cells/μL (interquartile range 26–103). CrAg prevalence was 6.1% (34/560) among individuals with CD4 ≤150 and 7.5% among ≤100 cells/μL. CrAg prevalence was 2.3-fold higher among hospitalized participants than in outpatients (12% vs 5.3%, P = 0.02). We performed lumbar punctures in 94% (32/34), and 31% (10/34) had cryptococcal meningitis. Mortality did not differ significantly between treated CrAg-positive without meningitis and CrAg-negative individuals (7.3 vs 5.4 deaths per 100 person-years, respectively, P = 0.25). Independent predictors of 6-month death/lost to follow-up were low CD4, cryptococcal meningitis (adjusted hazard ratio 2.76, 95% confidence interval: 1.31 to 5.82), and no antiretroviral therapy initiation (adjusted hazard ratio 3.12, 95% confidence interval: 2.16 to 4.50).

Conclusions:

Implementing laboratory-reflex CrAg screening among outpatients and hospitalized individuals resulted in a rapid detection of cryptococcosis and a survival benefit. These results provide a model of a feasible, effective, and scalable CrAg screening and treatment strategy integrated into routine care in sub-Saharan Africa.
Coxiella burnetii: A Pathogenic Intracellular Acidophile
Authors: Shaw Edward I. , Voth Daniel E.
Published: November 2018

Coxiella burnetii is an obligate intracellular pathogen that causes acute and chronic Q fever. C. burnetii grows within a eukaryotic host cell in a vacuole highly similar to a phagolysosome. Found worldwide, this environmentally stable pathogen is maintained in nature via chronic infection of ruminants. Aerosol-mediated infection of humans results in infection and usurpation of alveolar macrophages through mechanisms using a bacterial Type 4B Secretion System and secreted effector proteins. Advances in axenic culture and genetic systems are changing our understanding of the pathogen’s physiology and intimate molecular manipulations of host cells during infection.
Heparin-induced tau filaments are polymorphic and differ from those in Alzheimer’s and Pick’s diseases
Authors: Zhang Wenjuan , Falcon Benjamin , Murzin Alexey G. , Fan Juan , Crowther R. Anthony , Goedert Michel , Scheres Sjors H.W.
Published: November 2018

The assembly of microtubule-associated protein tau into abundant filamentous inclusions underlies a range of neurodegenerative diseases. The finding that tau filaments adopt different conformations in Alzheimer’s and Pick’s diseases raises the question of what kinds of structures of tau filaments form in vitro. Here, we used electron cryo-microscopy (cryo-EM) and negative-stain immuno-gold electron microscopy (immuno-EM) to characterise filaments that were assembled from recombinant full-length human tau with four (2N4R) or three (2N3R) microtubule-binding repeats in the presence of heparin. 4R tau assembles into at least four different types of filaments. Cryo-EM structures of three types of 4R filaments reveal similar “kinked hairpin” folds, in which the second and third repeats pack against each other. 3R tau filaments are structurally homogeneous, and adopt a dimeric core, where the third repeats of two tau molecules pack against each other in a parallel, yet asymmetric, manner. None of the heparin-induced tau filaments resemble those of Alzheimer’s or Pick’s disease, which have larger cores with different repeat compositions. Our results indicate that tau filaments are structurally versatile, and raise questions about the relevance of in vitro assembled amyloids.
Research on the performance of industrial innovation of small and medium-sized enterprises in China
Authors: Lu Guoqing , Dai Peng , Zhang Xia
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to test the relationship between innovation performance and innovation spillover effects, innovation inputs, innovation outputs and industrial effects.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis framework including variables such as innovation spillover effect, innovation input, innovation output and industrial effect was constructed. Through the investigation and analysis of the innovation activities of China’s GEM listed companies in 2014–2016, the innovation performance and the above factors were tested.

Findings

The research shows that enterprise performance has a significant positive correlation with innovation input and innovation output, but there is no significant correlation or even negative correlation with innovation environment and industry background such as government support and innovation opportunities, and the spillover effect is significant. The negative correlation is also negatively correlated with innovative human capital investment, company age and company Q.

Originality/value

Innovation is the real source of economic growth, and industrial innovation is the system integration of technological innovation, product innovation, market innovation, etc., which is the basic determinant of national competitiveness.
Exploring the relationships between gamification and motivational needs in technology design
Authors: Tang Jian , Zhang Ping
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Drawing upon the motivational affordance theory, this paper aims to investigate how gamification design and human motivational needs are associated in extant literature.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a literature analysis of 60 journal articles that studied motivational influences of gamification in information technology design. Content analysis was used to identify game design features and motivation variables studied in prior literature, and correspondence analysis was used to show the co-occurrence of game design features and basic motivational needs.

Findings

The results showed that four types of game design features and eight basic motivational needs are studied in this pool of literature. Correspondence analysis indicates some interesting associations between game design features and basic human needs.

Research limitations/implications

This research used a motivational affordance perspective to interpret the impact of game design features and suggested directions for future investigations. It is limited due to its sample size and considered as an exploratory study.

Practical implications

This research provided suggestions for technology designers that game design features vary in their motivational influence, and therefore, game design features should be used accordingly to meet users’ motivational needs.

Originality/value

This research is one of initial studies which explored the association between game design features and basic motivational needs. The findings of this study provide the groundwork for guidelines and strategies to facilitate motivational design in information technology.
Water conservation behavior: is what we say what we do?
Authors: Parker Janna M. , Sams Doreen , Poddar Amit , Manoylov Kalina
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study (mixed-method) was to examine the effectiveness of two types of marketing interventions on water conservation behavior and to compare behaviors to self-reported conservation claims.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper consists of four phases (advertisement selection focus group, behavioral trace field study, self-report survey and follow-up focus group). In the USA, residing in a dormitory typically includes a fee for water without quantity restrictions. The subjects for this research were college students who lived in dormitories at a medium-sized university in southeastern USA where metering individual water consumption is not possible.

Findings

The results of the field study phase of student water conservation behaviors were not congruent with the participants’ self-reported behaviors. Phase 2 yielded results contrary to published laboratory experimental research in which cause-related claims were effective.

Research limitations/implications

This research was limited by a single sample (one university), time (13 weeks) and the inability to measure individual consumption behavior. However, valuable findings were obtained, and suggestions surfaced for future research.

Practical implications

Using eco-feedback technology and advertisements may result in significant cost savings. While findings were somewhat inconclusive, there was evidence that the use of the eco-feedback technology could result in cost savings for the subject university.

Originality/value

The behavioral trace study is one of the first field research studies in the marketing discipline designed to examine resource conservation behavior in an impactful way. Further, this research used a single sample triangulated methodology across Phases 2, 3 and 4.
Typology of creative entrepreneurs and entrepreneurial success
Authors: Chen Ming-Huei , Chang Yu-Yu , Pan Ju-Yun
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The rise of creative economy has been the subject of considerable interest in the recent literature. Despite the growing effort to investigate entrepreneurship in creative industries, little work has been done to scrutinize the relationship between individual attributes of creative entrepreneurs and the new venture outcomes. Prior research shows that entrepreneurial creativity and opportunity recognition are the major determinants of entrepreneurs’ behavioral posture in the new venture process. Therefore, this study aims to explore the typology of creative entrepreneurs’ attitude to new venture creation using entrepreneurial creativity and opportunity recognition to categorize entrepreneurs in creative industries.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 291 entrepreneurs in creative industries of Taiwan and cluster analysis was used to categorize the research data.

Findings

The results identify four types of creative entrepreneurs, namely “creative constructionist”, “creative opportunist”, “creative designer” and “creative producer”. To better understand the role of creative entrepreneurs in affecting new venture success, the career outcomes perceived by entrepreneurs were compared between different categories. Results suggest that entrepreneurs who are categorized as “creative constructionist” have better career success in firm’s creative performance, personal career achievement, social reputation, entrepreneurial satisfaction and entrepreneurial happiness. Moreover, findings also suggest that constructionist type of creative entrepreneurs have the lowest intention to quit the entrepreneurial career.

Originality/value

This paper confirms that entrepreneurial creativity and opportunity recognition complement each other to accomplish entrepreneurs’ career success. Its findings shed light on entrepreneurs’ attribute typology as well as how the typology is linked to entrepreneurial career success in creative industries. Theoretical contributions and practical implications are discussed.
Organizational cynicism and employee performance
Authors: Arslan Muhammad
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Organizational cynicism is a growing trend in contemporary organizations. However, its impact on employee performance remains understudied. The purpose of this study is to address this gap by investigating the effect of three dimensions of organizational cynicism (cognitive, affective and behavioral cynicisms) on employee performance. The study also investigates the moderating effect of employee engagement on the relationship between three types of organizational cynicism and employee performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Primary data are collected through questionnaire from employees (N = 200) of various health organizations in Pakistan by using a convenient sampling technique. Hierarchal multiple regression models are used by using SPSS.

Findings

The findings reveal that all three types of organizational cynicism (i.e. cognitive cynicism, affective cynicism and behavioral cynicism) have a significant negative relationship with employee performance, while employee engagement moderates this relationship. Moreover, the findings indicate that the majority of respondents are not happy with their organizations. They have the feeling that their organizations are not fulfilling their promises, in fact, are betraying them in different ways. This breach of contract becomes the reason for organizational cynicism among employees and negatively affects their performance at work.

Research limitations/implications

The study has a large population size and it is quite difficult to address the whole population and collect data from a large sample because of time and limited budget.

Practical/implications

The organizational culture can mitigate the negative effect of organizational cynicism and enhance performance by promoting employee engagement. The study helps psychologists to understand employees’ attitudes and improve personnel selection to ensure they recruit the right people. Openness, honesty and early communication can increase predictability and controllability of future events.

Social implications

The job insecurity and lack of adequate compensation are assertive factors towards low productivity and negative attitude toward organization.

Originality/value

According to the researchers’ best knowledge, only few studies tried to investigate the relationship between organizational cynicism and employee performance by using the moderating effect of employee engagement. Therefore, it will be a good contribution in existing literature to understand consequences of cynicisms.
Effectiveness of modified health belief model-based intervention to reduce body mass index for age in overweight junior high school students in Thailand
Authors: Khumros Waraporn , Vorayingyong Arnond , Suppapitiporn Siriluck , Rattananupong Thanapoom , Lohsoonthorn Vitool
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine the effectiveness of a modified HBM-based intervention to reduce body mass index (BMI) for age in overweight junior high school students.

Design/methodology/approach

A cluster-randomized controlled trial was conducted in the first and second years of a junior high school in the center of Thailand. In total, 24 classrooms were randomly assigned to a modified health belief model intervention arm (HBMIA), and 24 classrooms were randomly assigned to a traditional school health education arm (control). In total, 479 students who were overweight (BMI forage = median +1 SD, aged 12–15 years) participated in the study. The HBMIA used the health belief model (HBM) as a motivator for behavioral strategies that included modifying diet and participating in physical activity. BMI, health knowledge and behavior for preventing obesity were recorded at baseline and at six months. A multilevel regression model was performed to calculate mean difference between HBMIA and control group.

Findings

The students who participated in the HBMIA showed a decrease in BMI of 1.76 kg/m2, while those who participated in the control showed an increase in BMI of 1.13 kg/m2, with a mean difference of –2.88 kg/m2(95% CI =–3.01 to –2.75), an improvement in health knowledge (mean difference 27.28; 95% CI =26.15–28.41) and an improvement in health behavior (mean difference 23.54; 95% CI =22.60–24.48).

Originality/value

A modified HBM-based intervention to reduce BMI for age is effective in overweight junior high school students.
The impact of atmospherics on WOM about short life-cycle products: the case of motion pictures
Authors: Hatzithomas Leonidas , Gkorezis Panagiotis , Zotou Athina Y. , Tsourvakas George
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to empirically examine how atmospherics affect word of mouth (WOM) about the brand. The authors focus primarily on uncovering the causal mechanism in which such effect is serially mediated by both perceived positive emotions evoked by atmospherics and attitude toward the brand.

Design/methodology/approach

To test the research hypotheses, 314 Greek moviegoers were drafted to participate in a survey. Data were analysed using confirmatory factor analysis (AMOS) and the SPSS macro (PROCESS tool). The model was applied to motion pictures, as they provide a particularly good example of short life-cycle products.

Findings

Findings indicate that atmospherics are related to WOM about the brand through perceived emotions evoked by atmospherics and, in turn, attitude toward the brand.

Research limitations/implications

The present study extends the relevant literature by providing both direct and indirect links between atmospherics and WOM about a brand.

Practical implications

The model of the present study could be applied to other short life-cycle products that share key characteristics with motion pictures. Moreover, the present study increases movie producers and exhibitors’ understanding of the effects of theatre atmospherics on WOM about the movie and leads to practical suggestions and implications.

Originality/value

WOM is one of the key variables that can affect the profitability of short life-cycle products. To date, there was no evidence that atmospherics can influence WOM about a short life-cycle product.
Fashion retailing “tech-gagement”: engagement fueled by new technology
Authors: Colombi Chiara , Kim Pielah , Wyatt Nioka
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The state of interactive digital technology is evolving rapidly and has shifted the ways in which customers shop dramatically. This trend heightens the need for research that examines the latest interactive digital technology tools adopted in fashion retailing. In response, the purpose of this paper was to examine fashion retailers’ incorporation of new interactive digital technology – in both online and offline retailing formats, and including new hybrid contexts – and its results in providing new experiential quality that contributes strongly to engage with customers.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper first reviews the literature and then proposes the research questions. This is followed by exploratory substantiation of those propositions with the findings from case studies that examined the new interactive digital technology implemented by six leading fashion retailers.

Findings

Various digital technology tools implemented in brick-to-click, click-to-brick and brick-and-mortar retailing offer customers a variety of experiential qualities that allow them to co-create products, engage in emotion-driven sensational and personalized shopping experiences and seamless shopping virtually, all of which derive from interactive digital technology implemented to enhance customer engagement.

Originality/value

This research examined the implementation of interactive digital technologies across the full spectrum of the fashion retail settings above. This paper makes an original contribution by adopting a customer-centric perspective and assessing the advantages technology provides to customer’s engagement quality in shopping, which differs from the traditional firm-centric perspective that views technology as a way to innovate retailers’ operations.
Study of macro-bending biconical tapered plastic optical fiber for relative humidity sensing
Authors: Guo Zi , Chu Fenghong , Fan Jinyu , Zhang Ze , Bian Zhenglan , Li Gaofang , Song Xiaojun
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose and optimize plastic optical fiber (POF) probe with macro-bending biconical tapered structure for the relative humidity (RH) sensing.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the principle is the evanescent wave power modulated by the ambient humidity. The probe is fabricated by using fused biconical taper and heat-setting method and then coated with a fluorescent moisture-sensitive film.

Findings

The probe’s sensing performance can be optimized by changing the probe’s curvature radius, biconical tapered transition length and taper waist diameter. The result shows that the sensitivity of the probe is up to 1.60 and 3.40 mV/ per cent, respectively, at low humidity (10-45 per cent) and high humidity (45-90 per cent). Also, this probe has good linearity, repeatability, photostability and long-term stability.

Practical implications

The proposed probe can improve the sensitivity and linearity of RH sensing without complex devices, which is necessary for mass production, remote measurement and convenient operation.

Originality/value

POF probe with macro-bending biconical tapered structure is investigated in this paper, which is proved to be effective in improving the sensitivity and linearity.
Incorporating species population dynamics into static prioritization: Targeting species undergoing rapid change
Authors: Fukumori Kayoko , Ishida Shinya , Shimoda Michiko , Takenaka Akio , Akasaka Munemitsu , Nishihiro Jun , Takamura Noriko , Kadoya Taku
Published: November 2018

Conservation planning has generally used models with a static spatial distribution of species to predict the likely occurrence of species. However, static data do not usually capture rapid changes in the abundance of endangered species or cryptic life stages such as the dormancy stage of eggs and seeds. Little is known about how neglecting dynamic population processes, such as recovery processes, can affect the outcomes of spatial prioritization in conservation planning.

In this study, we investigated the distribution of 62 aquatic plant species, including 23 threatened species, in 415 agricultural ponds for 37 years to examine the importance of including recovery processes in conservation planning. Using long‐term historical presence–absence data and seedbank longevity data for aquatic macrophytes, we estimated rates of population disappearance and recovery for each species in each pond over the next 100 years.

Average rates of recovery exceeded 0, 0.2, and 0.4 in 85.4%, 40.3%, and 4.8% of aquatic plant species, respectively. Simulation results suggested that the extinction risk for a species greatly decreased when recovery processes were considered. We found that including recovery processes in target species populations increased the performance of spatial prioritization by protecting more species in a smaller number of protected ponds. Spatial ranking of ponds for species conservation differed substantially among scenarios that included and excluded population recovery processes, suggesting that conservation priorities based on complementarity analysis are sensitive to underlying assumptions.

Synthesis and applications. Our dynamic approach, which considers recovery processes of species, contributes to more effective conservation planning by reducing bias in the prediction of species’ state, given that cryptic life stages are ubiquitous among many plants and some animals. Time‐series presence/absence data on target species are quite useful for the approach and are often archived by participatory monitoring. Thus, the opportunities for applying our method are broad, especially for conservation prioritization and decision‐making at the local scale.
Recognition of dominant attractants by key chemoreceptors mediates recruitment of plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria
Authors: Feng Haichao , Zhang Nan , Fu Ruixin , Liu Yunpeng , Krell Tino , Du Wenbin , Shao Jiahui , Shen Qirong , Zhang Ruifu
Published: November 2018

Chemotaxis to plant root exudates is supposed to be a prerequisite for efficient root colonization by rhizobacteria. This is a highly multifactorial process since root exudates are complex compound mixtures of which components are recognized by different chemoreceptors. Little information is available as to the key components in root exudates and their receptors that drive colonization related chemotaxis. We present here the first global assessment of this issue using the plant growth‐promoting rhizobacterium (PGPR) Bacillus velezensis SQR9 (formerly B. amyloliquefaciens). This strain efficiently colonizes cucumber roots, and here, we show that chemotaxis to cucumber root exudates was essential in this process. We conducted chemotaxis assays using cucumber root exudates at different concentrations, individual exudate components as well as recomposed exudates, taking into account their concentrations detected in root exudates. Results indicated that two key chemoreceptors, McpA and McpC, were essential for root exudate chemotaxis and root colonization. Both receptors possess a broad ligand range and recognize most of the exudate key components identified (malic, fumaric, gluconic and glyceric acids, Lys, Ser, Ala and mannose). The remaining six chemoreceptors did not contribute to exudate chemotaxis. This study provides novel insight into the evolution of the chemotaxis system in rhizobacteria.
Diversity of phytobeneficial traits revealed by whole‐genome analysis of worldwide‐isolated phenazine‐producing Pseudomonas spp.
Authors: Biessy Adrien , Novinscak Amy , Blom Jochen , Léger Geneviève , Thomashow Linda S. , Cazorla Francisco M. , Josic Dragana , Filion Martin
Published: November 2018

Plant‐beneficial Pseudomonas spp. competitively colonize the rhizosphere and display plant‐growth promotion and/or disease‐suppression activities. Some strains within the P. fluorescens species complex produce phenazine derivatives, such as phenazine‐1‐carboxylic acid. These antimicrobial compounds are broadly inhibitory to numerous soil‐dwelling plant pathogens and play a role in the ecological competence of phenazine‐producing Pseudomonas spp. We assembled a collection encompassing 63 strains representative of the worldwide diversity of plant‐beneficial phenazine‐producing Pseudomonas spp. In this study, we report the sequencing of 58 complete genomes using PacBio RS II sequencing technology. Distributed among four subgroups within the P. fluorescens species complex, the diversity of our collection is reflected by the large pangenome which accounts for 25 413 protein‐coding genes. We identified genes and clusters encoding for numerous phytobeneficial traits, including antibiotics, siderophores and cyclic lipopeptides biosynthesis, some of which were previously unknown in these microorganisms. Finally, we gained insight into the evolutionary history of the phenazine biosynthetic operon. Given its diverse genomic context, it is likely that this operon was relocated several times during Pseudomonas evolution. Our findings acknowledge the tremendous diversity of plant‐beneficial phenazine‐producing Pseudomonas spp., paving the way for comparative analyses to identify new genetic determinants involved in biocontrol, plant‐growth promotion and rhizosphere competence.
Integrative analysis of differential genes and identification of a “2‐gene score” associated with survival in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wang Lin , Dong Gaochao , Xia Wenjie , Mao Qixing , Wang Anpeng , Chen Bing , Ma Weidong , Wu Yaqin , Xu Lin , Jiang Feng
Published: November 2018

Background

Developments in high‐throughput genomic technologies have led to improved understanding of the molecular underpinnings of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). However, there is currently no model that combines the clinical features and gene expression signatures to predict outcomes.

Methods

We obtained data from the GSE53625 database of Chinese ESCC patients who had undergone surgical treatment. The R packages, Limma and WGCNA, were used to identify and construct a co‐expression network of differentially expressed genes, respectively. The Cox regression model was used, and a nomogram prediction model was constructed.

Results

A total of 3654 differentially expressed genes were identified. Bioinformatics enrichment analysis was conducted. Multivariate analysis of the clinical cohort revealed that age and adjuvant therapy were independent factors for survival, and these were entered into the clinical nomogram. After integrating the gene expression profiles, we identified a “2‐gene score” associated with overall survival. The combinational model is composed of clinical data and gene expression profiles. The C‐index of the combined nomogram for predicting survival was statistically higher than the clinical nomogram. The calibration curve revealed that the combined nomogram and actual observation showed better prediction accuracy than the clinical nomogram alone.

Conclusions

The integration of gene expression signatures and clinical variables produced a predictive model for ESCC that performed better than those based exclusively on clinical variables. This approach may provide a novel prediction model for ESCC patients after surgery.
Increased Alcohol Consumption Among Swedish 70‐Year‐Olds 1976 to 2016: Analysis of Data from The Gothenburg H70 Birth Cohort Studies, Sweden
Authors: Ahlner Felicia , Sigström Robert , Rydberg Sterner Therese , Mellqvist Fässberg Madeleine , Kern Silke , Östling Svante , Waern Margda , Skoog Ingmar
Published: November 2018

Background

The older adult population is increasing worldwide, as is the number of older adults who consume alcohol. Although there is a growing body of research on alcohol consumption among older people, few studies focus on changes in at‐risk consumption over time across well‐defined birth cohorts of older adults.

Methods

This study used a serial cross‐sectional design in order to compare alcohol consumption patterns among birth cohorts of Swedish 70‐year‐olds (total n = 2,268) examined in 1976 to 1977 (n = 393), 1992 to 1993 (n = 248), 2000 to 2002 (n = 458), and 2014 to 2016 (n = 1,169). Participants took part in a multidisciplinary study on health and aging. Face‐to‐face interviews were conducted by healthcare professionals. Protocols regarding alcohol consumption were similar for all cohorts. The volume of weekly alcohol consumption was estimated during the past month. At‐risk consumption was defined as ≥100 g alcohol/wk corresponding roughly to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism definition of heavy consumption.

Results

The proportion of at‐risk consumers among men increased from 16.1% in 1976 to 1977 to 29.9% in 2000 to 2002 (p = 0.001) and 45.3% in 2014 to 2016 (p < 0.001). In women, proportions were low in 1976 to 1977 (0.5%) and 1992 to 1993 (2.0%; p = 0.134), but increased to 9.5% in 2000 to 2002 (p < 0.001) and 24.3% in 2014 to 2016 (p < 0.001). The male:female ratio regarding consumption of ≥100 g/wk decreased from 32.2:1 in 1976 to 1977 to 3.1:1 in 2000 to 2002 to 1.9:1 in 2014 to 2016. Spirit consumption decreased dramatically among men during the study period, while women reported very low spirit consumption at all examinations. Wine consumption increased in both sexes between 2000 to 2002 and 2014 to 2016. Beer consumption increased among men between 2000 to 2002 and 2014 to 2016.

Conclusions

Recent cohorts of 70‐year‐olds in Sweden report significantly higher levels of alcohol consumption than previous cohorts. There was a dramatic increase in at‐risk consumption among 70‐year‐olds from the 1970s to the mid‐2010s, and this was particularly pronounced among women.