bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Employee strengths use and innovative behavior: a moderated mediation model
Authors: Ding He , Lin Xinqi , Su Weilin
Published: November 2020

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the mediating role of positive affect and the moderating role of deficit correction in the relationship between employee strengths use and innovative behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopted a three-wave research design to gather data. A convenience sample of 189 employees working in diverse organizations in China was applied to examine the hypotheses.

Findings

The results indicated that employee strengths use was positively related to innovative behavior, and positive affect mediated the relationship between employee strengths use and innovative behavior. In addition, deficit correction enhanced the direct relationship of employee strengths use with positive affect and the indirect relationship of employee strengths use with innovative behavior through positive affect.

Originality/value

The current study contributes to the existing literature on employee strengths use-innovative behavior relationships by revealing positive affect as a mediator and deficit correction as a moderator between employee strengths use and innovative behavior.
Exploring preferences for affordable housing criteria importance among EWS in India
Authors: Ghumare Pavan Namdeo , Chauhan Krupesh A. , Yadav Sanjaykumar M.
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide affordable housing to economically weaker section (EWS). The enormity of India’s housing affordability problem has led the authors to study and analyze the criteria delaying an affordable housing for EWS. The issues affecting supply and demand for affordable housing in Indian urban areas for EWS are analyzed.

Design/methodology/approach

The judgment sampling is used among housing and planning experts working in five different sectors, including local authorities, housing developers, housing sectors, town planning and property/affordable housing consultants. The study has established the problem and acknowledged 30 factors behind it. A total of 349 questionnaires were administered among the housing experts in 4 states of India. Descriptive statistical method was used to determine the significance of criteria.

Findings

A complete structure of criteria signifying housing affordability, established by the authors, is validated and analyzed in this paper. The questionnaire surveys were conducted with housing and planning experts across the four states of India to determine household perceptions on the criteria contributing to housing affordability and to rank these criteria according to their importance. The study establishes that the experts’ views on this issue differ insignificantly across different states of India, while they differ in certain levels depending on the urban area.

Practical implications

To build successful societies for the future, the authors wish to draw closer on affordability issues for EWS. The suggestions prominent information to investors, and real estate firms, which could assistance ecological growth of housing projects that are affordable.

Originality/value

Based on the examination of the ranking and greatness of housing criteria, this paper further suggests possible developments for EWS in India.
Mapping geographic patterns in federal corporate agreements
Authors: Homer Emily M. , Higgins George E.
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to use crime mapping techniques to examine geographic patterns of signed deferred and non-prosecution agreements across federal districts. The purpose is also to examine the variation in the number of agreements by the district since 1992.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses data from the Corporate Prosecution Registry to examine geographic patterns in federal corporate agreements since 1992 (n = 534). Choropleth mapping techniques were used to create national crime maps displaying the geographic locations of signed corporate agreements.

Findings

The results showed that, overall, prosecutors in the District of Columbia have signed the most federal corporate agreements although there is some variation over time.

Research limitations/implications

This study is unable to determine the causes of changes in the geographic placement or number of agreements signed. It is also unable to determine the precise geographic locations of crimes, but only the location of the District Court that elected to pursue a federal agreement with the organization.

Practical implications

The wide discretion prosecutors have in the agreement process has led to an overall lack of transparency concerning prosecutors’ decision-making when signing agreements with organizations. This study helps to make the number and geographic location of agreements more transparent.

Originality/value

This study uses crime mapping techniques to visually depict the locations of signed agreements allowing for visual comparisons and analyzes for an extended period of time.
Mauritius as an offshore financial centre and laws relating to tax avoidance and evasion
Authors: Beebeejaun Ambareen
Published: November 2020

Purpose

While Mauritius is ranked as the fastest growing financial centre in Africa and the second-fastest-growing offshore financial centre (OFC) in the word by the New World Health in 2019, the country is facing severe allegations that it is progressing at the expense of other developing countries. In this respect, this paper aims to assess the contribution of the Mauritius OFC, the robustness of tax avoidance and evasion laws, the endeavours undertaken by the Mauritius Government to promote Mauritius OFC and the alleged classification of Mauritius as a tax haven.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve the above research objectives, this paper will adopt the black letter approach. That is, the relevant legislation and case laws will be scrutinised. Also, books, journal articles, newspaper articles, reports from international bodies amongst others will be used. The research methodology also comprising a critical analysis which implies that existing studies conducted on the subject matter of this research will be assessed and the extent to which the researcher agrees with the existing work will be weighed.

Findings

Based on the critical analysis, this paper recommends that the Mauritius Income Tax Act be amended to provide for punitive and corrective actions for those engaged in impermissible tax avoidance. Additionally, for transparency and clarity, it is suggested that the Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA) clarifies in a practice note the factors that it considers when determining the tax liability that should have been payable or when detecting tax avoidance cases. Similarly, to discourage tax evasion, the fines and penalties for tax-evading offences should be more strict and a regulatory framework for tax practitioners need to be set up.

Originality/value

To the author’s knowledge, this paper is amongst the first academic research that emphasises the position of Mauritius as an OFC and critically analysed the related laws relating to the financial world.
High variation of mitochondrial DNA diversity as compared to nuclear microsatellites in mammalian populations
Authors: Saitoh Takashi
Published: November 2020

The effective gene number (the number of genes that can be inherited) of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) is one‐fourth of that of nuclear DNA (ncDNA) in idealized populations. Therefore, mtDNA haplotype diversity (h) is predicted to be lower than ncDNA heterozygosity (HE) because of the higher effect of genetic drift on mtDNA. This prediction has not yet been systematically tested. To this end, in this study, published data for 739 populations of 108 mammalian species (66 terrestrial and 42 marine species) revealed the following patterns: (a) h was higher than HE in 54.9% of populations, (b) the variance of h (0.097) was significantly higher than that of HE (0.018) and (c) the frequency distribution of h differed between terrestrial and marine species. The terrestrial species exhibited a U‐shaped distribution, whereas the marine species exhibited a right triangle shape. HE showed a unimodal distribution for both groups. (d) The mean of HE was similar between the terrestrial (0.668) and marine (0.672) species, whereas the mean of h was significantly lower for the terrestrial species (0.578) than for the marine species (0.740). Two hypotheses were considered to explain the above‐described patterns, one of which was based on the higher mutation rates of mtDNA, while the other was based on a nested subpopulation structure in which an ncDNA‐based population includes several mtDNA‐based subpopulations. Herein, the plausibility of these two hypotheses was discussed with a focus on the higher intraspecific variation of h.
Abiotic conditions outweigh microbial origin during bacterial assembly in soils
Authors: Kaminsky Laura M. , Esker Paul D. , Bell Terrence H.
Published: November 2020

Understanding the processes guiding microbial community assembly in soils is essential for predicting microbiome structure and function following soil disturbance events like agricultural soil fumigation. However, assembly outcomes are complex and variable, being affected by both selective abiotic forces and by the history of colonizing microorganisms. To untangle the interactions between these factors, we conducted a controlled microcosm study tracking bacterial assembly in cleared soils over 7 weeks. We used mesh bags to connect five unsterilized source soils, differing in land use history (forested, agricultural, or fallow), with four sterile recipient soil treatments, differing in abiotic conditions (no soil additives, salt addition, urea addition, or mixed salt/urea addition). We found that 59%–96% of bacterial colonizers after 1 week were Firmicutes, but by 7 weeks Actinobacteria and Bacteroidetes were also dominant. Salt and nitrogen additions reshaped bacterial assembly by constraining alpha diversity by up to half and biomass accumulation by up to an order of magnitude. Within‐treatment dispersion was significantly lower for salt and nutrient addition microcosms, suggesting deterministic selective pressures. In contrast, source soil origin had little impact on assembly trajectories. These results suggest that abiotic conditions can overshadow microbial source history in shaping community assembly outcomes.
Public support for state surveillance
Authors: ZILLER CONRAD , HELBLING MARC
Published: November 2020

This study examines citizens’ support for state surveillance, contingent upon factors related to policy design and the context of implementation. While most people want to live in a secure environment, we argue in this study that the support of policies to reach this goal depends on their necessity, extensiveness and reliability. Results from survey experiments in four European countries show that citizens are ready to approve the introduction of far‐reaching state surveillance that includes measures of facial recognition and motion detection. Public support is further enhanced if these measures are to be targeted at potential criminals, rather than at all citizens (i.e., policy extensiveness), as well as if a safety threat is salient (i.e., policy necessity). Concerns about data security reduce support (i.e., policy reliability). While these conditions matter for the support of specific policies, they do not influence how trustworthy citizens consider government and other political authorities to be.
Whole genome sequencing of silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) and bighead carp (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis) provide novel insights into their evolution and speciation
Authors: Jian Jianbo , Yang Liandong , Gan Xiaoni , Wu Bin , Gao Li , Zeng Honghui , Wang Xuzhen , Liang Zhiqiang , Wang Ying , Fang Lihua , Li Jie , Jiang Sanjie , Du Kang , Fu Beide , Bai Mingzhou , Chen Ming , Fang Xiaodong , Liu Huanzhang , He Shunping
Published: November 2020

The edible silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix) and bighead carp (H. nobilis), which are two of the “Four Domesticated Fish” of China, are cultivated intensively worldwide. Here, we constructed 837‐ and 845‐Mb draft genome assemblies for the silver carp and the bighead carp, respectively, including 24,571 and 24,229 annotated protein‐coding genes. Genetic maps, anchoring 71.7% and 83.8% of all scaffolds, were obtained for the silver and bighead carp, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the bighead carp formed a clade with the silver carp, with an estimated divergence time of 3.6 million years ago; the time of divergence between the silver carp and zebrafish was 50.7 million years ago. An East Asian cyprinid genome‐specific chromosome fusion took place ~9.2 million years after this clade diverged from the clade containing the common carp and Sinocyclocheilus. KEGG and GO analyses indicated that the expanded gene families in the silver and bighead carp were associated with diseases, the immune system and environmental adaptations. Genomic regions differentiating the silver and bighead carp populations were detected based on the whole‐genome sequences of 42 individuals. Genes associated with the divergent regions were associated with reproductive system development and the development of primary female sexual characteristics. Thus, our results provided a novel systematic genomic analysis of the East Asian cyprinids, as well as the evolution and speciation of the silver carp and bighead carp.
Sulfur assimilation in corals with aposymbiotic and symbiotic zooxanthellae
Authors: Higuchi Tomihiko , Tanaka Kentaro , Shirai Kotaro , Yuyama Ikuko , Mezaki Takuma , Takahata Naoto , Sano Yuji
Published: November 2020

Although sulfate ions are the main form of sulfur in the ocean, there is limited knowledge on their use by living organisms. Stable isotope labelling and NanoSIMS analysis were used in this study to clarify how sulfate, in seawater, is assimilated by corals and zooxanthellae at the cellular level. Aposymbiotic and symbiotic coral juveniles from the genus Acropora were incubated for 2 days in filtered seawater with 34S‐labelled sulfate. Further, the labelled corals were incubated for additional 2 days in natural seawater. Mapping of sulfur isotopes (34S/32S) showed that the ‘hotspots’ were enriched in 34S on a sub‐micro level and were heterogeneously distributed in the coral soft tissues. Specifically, 34S hotspots were found in both the symbiotic zooxanthellae and coral host tissues. In aposymbiotic corals, 34S was detected in the tissues, indicating that the host corals directly assimilated the sulfate ions without any aid from the zooxanthellae. Even after 2 days in normal seawater, the 34S label was clearly seen in both symbiotic and aposymbiotic corals, indicating that the assimilated sulfur was retained for at least 2 days.
PSPManalysis: Steady‐state and bifurcation analysis of physiologically structured population models
Authors: de Roos André M.
Published: November 2020

How environmental conditions affect the life history of individuals and how these effects shape population and community dynamics on ecological and evolutionary time‐scales is a central question in many eco‐evolutionary studies.

Physiologically structured population models (PSPMs) allow to address this question theoretically as PSPMs are built on a function‐based life‐history model, which explicitly describes how life history depends on individual traits and environmental factors. PSPMs furthermore explicitly account for population feedback on these environmental factors, which translates into density‐dependent effects on life history.

PSPManalysis is an r package that allows to simulate ecological dynamics of PSPMs, compute their ecological steady states as a function of model parameters and detect bifurcation points in the computed curves where dynamics change drastically. It furthermore allows for analysing evolutionary dynamics and evolutionary singular states of PSPMs based on Adaptive Dynamics theory. The package only requires a relatively straightforward specification of the life‐history functions as input.

Compared to dynamic simulations alone, PSPManalysis uses methods from bifurcation analysis to gain a more complete and comprehensive understanding of model behaviour which is much less dependent on particular parameter values or initial model conditions. Given the central role of the individual life history in many studies, there is substantial scope for using PSPManalysis in fields as diverse as ecology, ecotoxicology, conservation biology and evolutionary biology.
“Got Libros?”: Exploring Patrons’ Experiences with Latinx History and Literature at La Casa Azul Bookstore
Authors: de los Ríos Cati V.
Published: November 2020

This article explores how a local community came to value a Latinx bookstore as a supplementary knowledge space for Latinx history, literature, and culture. Findings detail how the bookstore served as a catalyst for a heterogeneous group of Latinx families and educators to (1) access empowering reflections of Latinx histories that were not found in traditional K–12 school curricula and (2) build alternative libraries in homes and classrooms that centered Latinx communities’ sociopolitical worlds.
Exploiting incumbents' potentialities: From linear value chains to multisided platforms
Authors: Dell'Era Claudio , Trabucchi Daniel , Magistretti Stefano
Published: November 2020

Two‐sided (or multisided) platforms are significantly transforming the competitive landscape. Companies like Airbnb and Uber entered and challenged traditional industries by adopting business models able to innovatively exploit the opportunities provided by digital technologies. Recent studies have pointed out that the characteristics of multisided platforms might inspire traditional businesses to foster innovation, enabling different kinds of value creation and capture. This paper aims to explore this possibility through a longitudinal case study of an Italian tour operator that moved from a traditional linear value chain model to a multisided platform. Relying on the literature about multisided platforms and the modalities adopted by incumbents in fostering innovation, this research offers contributions to both theory and practice. Firstly, it shows how incumbents can reinterpret their resources and relationships in order to conceive new multisided platforms. Secondly, it investigates how the experience gained by incumbents can unveil technological opportunities. Thirdly, it shows how the incumbents can manage complexity and adopt a systemic perspective in developing multisided platforms. Thus, the contribution to the academic dimension is in enriching the knowledge of how multisided platforms can help incumbents in dealing with their ‘typical curse’.
Tumor mutation burden as a biomarker for lung cancer patients treated with pemetrexed and cisplatin (the JIPANG‐TR)
Authors: Sakai Kazuko , Tsuboi Masahiro , Kenmotsu Hirotsugu , Yamanaka Takeharu , Takahashi Toshiaki , Goto Koichi , Daga Haruko , Ohira Tatsuo , Ueno Tsuyoshi , Aoki Tadashi , Nakagawa Kazuhiko , Yamazaki Koji , Hosomi Yukio , Kawaguchi Koji , Okumura Norihito , Takiguchi Yuichi , Sekine Akimasa , Haruki Tomohiro , Yamamoto Hiromasa , Sato Yuki , Akamatsu Hiroaki , Seto Takashi , Saeki Sho , Sugio Kenji , Nishio Makoto , Okabe Kazunori , Yamamoto Nobuyuki , Nishio Kazuto
Published: November 2020

The JIPANG study is a randomized phase III study of pemetrexed/cisplatin (Pem/Cis) versus vinorelbine/cisplatin (Vnr/Cis) for completely resected stage II‐IIIA non‐squamous non‐small cell lung cancer (Ns‐NSCLC). This study did not meet the primary endpoint (recurrence‐free survival, RFS) but Pem/Cis had a similar efficacy to Vnr/Cis with a better tolerability. Tumor mutation burden (TMB) is thought to have a predictive value of immune checkpoint inhibitors. However, the relevance of TMB to cytotoxic chemotherapy remains unknown. This exploratory study investigates the relationship between tumor mutation profiles and clinical outcome of Pem/Cis. Formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded tumor tissues (n = 389) were obtained from the patients. Mutation status of tissue DNA was analyzed by targeted deep sequencing. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations were detected frequently in Ns‐NSCLC (139/374). Patients without any EGFR mutations experienced longer RFS in the Pem/Cis arm versus Vnr/Cis arms. Pem/Cis in patients with high TMB (≥12‐16 mut/Mb) tended to have improved survival. In patients with wild‐type EGFR, TMB ≥ 12 mut/Mb was significantly associated with improved RFS with Pem/Cis versus Vnr/Cis (not reached vs 52.5 months; hazard ratio (HR) 0.477). It could be proposed that TMB was predictive of RFS benefit with Pem/Cis versus Vnr/Cis in Ns‐NSCLC. Further investigation is required to determine whether TMB combined with EGFR mutation status could be used as a predictive biomarker.
Deficiency of acyl‐CoA synthetase 5 is associated with a severe and treatable failure to thrive of neonatal onset
Authors: Al‐Thihli Khalid , Afting Cassian , Al‐Hashmi Nadia , Mohammed Mohammed , Sliwinski Svenja , Al Shibli Naema , Al‐Said Khoula , Al‐Kasbi Ghalia , Al‐Kharusi Khalsa , Merle Uta , Füllekrug Joachim , Al‐Maawali Almundher
Published: November 2020

Failure to thrive (FTT) causes significant morbidity, often without clear etiologies. Six individuals of a large consanguineous family presented in the neonatal period with recurrent vomiting and diarrhea, leading to severe FTT. Standard diagnostic work up did not ascertain an etiology. Autozygosity mapping and whole exome sequencing identified homozygosity for a novel genetic variant of the long chain fatty acyl‐CoA synthetase 5 (ACSL5) shared among the affected individuals (NM_203379.1:c.1358C>A:p.(Thr453Lys)). Autosomal recessive genotype–phenotype segregation was confirmed by Sanger sequencing. Functional in vitro analysis of the ACSL5 variant by immunofluorescence, western blotting and enzyme assay suggested that Thr453Lys is a loss‐of‐function mutation without any remaining activity. ACSL5 belongs to an essential enzyme family required for lipid metabolism and is known to contribute the major activity in the mouse intestine. Based on the function of ACSL5 in intestinal long chain fatty acid metabolism and the gastroenterological symptoms, affected individuals were treated with total parenteral nutrition or medium‐chain triglyceride‐based formula restricted in long‐chain triglycerides. The patients responded well and follow up suggests that treatment is only required during early life.
Ten years of contact allergy from acrylic compounds in an occupational dermatology clinic
Authors: Aalto‐Korte Kristiina , Suuronen Katri
Published: November 2020

Background

Contact allergy from acrylic compounds is a "hot topic". Knowledge on the exact chemical composition of acrylic products is superficial.

Aims

To retrospectively describe patients with allergic reactions to acrylic compounds.

Methods

We included patients who had been tested with acrylate patch test series and displayed allergic reactions to at least one acrylic compound. Chemical analyses were often performed when safety data sheets of implicated products failed to reveal acrylic compounds to which the patient tested positive.

Results

In 2010–2019 a total of 55 patients met the inclusion criteria. Eight cases of allergic contact dermatitis were due to anaerobic sealants, seven to dental products, three to windscreen glues, seven to eyelash glues and/or nail products in the beauty sector, three to UV‐cured printing inks, two to paints/lacquers, and one to polyester resin system. The origin of these contact allergies was occupational with the exception of four beauty sector workers who had developed eyelid symptoms from eyelash extensions glued onto their own eyelashes. We invariably detected methacrylate monomers in 15 chemical analyses of 12 different anaerobic sealants.

Conclusions

Safety data sheets of anaerobic sealants often lack warnings for skin sensitization, although these products regularly contain sensitizing methacrylates.
Variation in rectoanal inhibitory reflex after laparoscopic intersphincteric resection for ultralow rectal cancer
Authors: Zhang Bin , Zhao Ke , Zhao Yu‐Juan , Yin Shu‐Hui , Zhuo Guang‐Zuan , Zhao Yong , Ding Jian‐Hua
Published: November 2020

Aim

The aim was to evaluate the physiological variation in rectoanal inhibitory reflex (RAIR) after laparoscopic intersphincteric resection (Lap‐ISR) for ultralow rectal cancer.

Method

This was a retrospective study that included 56 patients who underwent Lap‐ISR from a prospectively collected database. The RAIR was examined preoperatively and up to 12 months after ileostomy closure. The primary outcome included physiological variation in RAIR and its difference between partial, subtotal and total ISR. The secondary outcome was its correlation with functional outcome.

Results

The reflex was present in 95% (53/56) of patients preoperatively, in 36% (20/56) before ileostomy closure, in 48% (27/56) at 3–6 months and in 61% (34/56) at 12 months after ileostomy closure. The elicited volume of RAIR was significantly increased at 12 months after ileostomy closure than at baseline (P = 0.005), but its duration and amplitude did not differ significantly. There was no significant difference in the reflex recovery between the ISR groups (partial vs. subtotal vs. total: 65% vs. 63% vs. 44%, P = 0.61). At 12 months after ileostomy closure, the RAIR‐present group had favourable functional results and patient satisfaction (P < 0.05). Major faecal incontinence was found in 82% of patients in the RAIR‐absent group.

Conclusion

The RAIR is abolished in the majority of patients after Lap‐ISR, but a time‐dependent recovery could be observed in more than half of the patients. The reflex recovery is not influenced by the resection grade of the internal sphincter. However, persistent loss of the RAIR correlates with worse continence.
Arpilleras and Archives: Textiles as Records of Conflict
Authors: Doolan Elizabeth
Published: November 2020

Arpilleras, a term derived from the Spanish word for burlap, are a type of textile that originated in Chile and came to international prominence during the Pinochet Regime (1973–1990). Largely they were created by women living in the shanty‐towns of Santiago during the dictatorship, and were exported internationally to denounce the regime and its violent and repressive actions. Since then, they have been utilised by women in multiple countries across South America to record and share their experiences with conflict. However, depending on the definition of record being used, the inclusion of these textiles as archival records could be contentious. This research asserts that arpilleras can and do act as archival records in a range of examples across South America, and therefore serve as an opportunity to challenge and expand previously limited definitions of a record.
The “Rich Gay”? Small Museums & Funding “Difficult” History
Authors: Brow Kelsey , Buckner Joshua
Published: November 2020

The authors compare the prevalence of LGBTQIA identities in the general public and particularly in the museum workforce with the lack of funding for exhibitions and programming around LGBTQIA topics, especially in small museums. They investigate historical research in Curator’s archives to understand how museums have handled subjects considered politically or culturally challenging, and the ramifications for funding of these projects. By looking to present‐day examples of historical house museums, the article draws attention to the creative community organizing approaches to fundraising that can increase representation of LGBTQIA people and cultures.
Increasing Museum Capacities for Serving Non‐White Audiences
Authors: Martinez Nick
Published: November 2020

This article surveys the history of the relationship between museums and communities of color in the United States, particularly those identifying as Black and African American. Studying the history of research of this topic in the Curator archive and other sources points to the paucity of studies that focus on this part of the population. The article illustrates the effect of these omissions and historical trends in a contemporary museum setting. Highlighting inclusive approaches and practices from the literature, the article offers solutions to the issues of representation and authority that have challenged many museums’ ability to embrace African American communities.
Futurescaping the Archive (Part 1. Artistic Intelligence and Creative Archiving of Artist Residency Experience)
Authors: Dziekan Vince
Published: November 2020

While art residencies have become an integral infrastructural feature of the international contemporary arts ecosystem, their perceived value is largely under‐researched and the transformative impact they have upon the actors and agencies involved – not the least of those being the artists themselves – remains ill‐defined and inadequately documented. This article provides the first instalment in a series of texts designed to account for and synthesize various investigative aspects of an interdisciplinary action research project that has taken the Visual Artist Residency program hosted by Monash University at its Centre in Prato, Italy as its subject. The Prato Visiting Artist Residency Archive research project (PratoVARarchive) seeks to illuminate the distinctive qualities associated with archiving art residency experiences from an artist‐centred perspective by cross‐fertilizing curatorial research processes with the records continuum model. The nature of artist‐led processes, creative collaboration, extra‐institutional relationships and the persisting influence of residency experience on an artist’s practice has been investigated through a combination of conventional qualitative research (i.e. artist interviews) and unconventional research through practice, including exhibition and paracuratorial formats that were called upon to focus the issue of art and archives at the Community Informatics Research conference hosted in Prato in 2017. For its part, this initial essay establishes some of the key values (i.e. artistic intelligence; artistic/performative research processes) and archivistic approaches (i.e. present‐tense, creative archiving) informing the project’s inquiry‐based approach.
The use of trichloroacetic acid as a depigmenting therapy in universal vitiligo
Authors: Nofal Ahmad , Fawzy Mohamed M. , Alakad Rania
Published: November 2020

Background and objectives

Several modalities have been used to clear residual facial pigmentation in patients with extensive vitiligo; however, the ideal depigmenting agent does not yet exist. The use of trichloroacetic acid (TCA) for depigmentation in universal vitiligo has been recently reported. We aim to evaluate the efficacy and safety of TCA 100 % as a depigmenting therapy for recalcitrant facial pigmentation in Egyptian patients with universal vitiligo.

Patients and methods

The study included 50 patients with universal vitiligo who had residual spotted pigmentation on the face causing psychological distress. TCA was focally applied to cover the pigmented patches at 100 % concentration. The treatment was repeated every two weeks until complete depigmentation or for a maximum of five treatment sessions.

Results

Excellent response to TCA treatment (> 90 % depigmentation) was reported in 80 % of the studied cases, partial response (50–90 % depigmentation) in 12 % and poor response (< 50 % depigmentation) in 8 % of the cases. Minor adverse effects were reported e.g. burning sensation, erosions and local infection.

Conclusions

TCA seems to be a cost‐effective and well tolerated therapeutic option for the treatment of recalcitrant residual pigmentation in patients with extensive vitiligo. This modality is associated with reduced downtime and minimal adverse effects.
Preservation of the viability and gene expression of human periodontal ligament cells by Thai propolis extract
Authors: Bunwanna Atittaya , Damrongrungruang Teerasak , Puasiri Subin , Kantrong Nutthapong , Chailertvanitkul Pattama
Published: November 2020

Background/Aim

Success of tooth replantation depends on the quality and quantity of periodontal ligament (PDL) cells. The aims of this study were to evaluate Thai propolis extract as a storage medium for maintaining PDL cell viability and preserving gene expressions in PDL tissues.

Materials and Methods

PDL cells from human premolars were tested for cytotoxicity of the extract by PrestoBlue assay to determine a non‐toxic concentration. Subsequently, 96 freshly extracted premolars were allocated into different treatment groups. Control groups were freshly extracted premolars or they had been stored dry for 12 hours. Experimental avulsed teeth were created by leaving them air‐dried for 30 minutes immediately after extraction, then they were immersed in Thai propolis extract, HBSS or milk for 3, 6 and 12 hours. After tooth storage, the remaining PDL cells were determined for their cell viability. RNA isolated from PDL tissues of three premolars treated similarly was analysed for periostin and S100A4 expressions using RT‐qPCR.

Results

Thai propolis extract at 0.625 mg mL−1 promoted the greatest PDL cell viability. Tooth storage in 0.625 mg mL−1 Thai propolis extract, HBSS or milk showed no difference in maintaining cell viability. Periostin mRNA level was preserved by Thai propolis extract. Expression of S100A4 mRNA in PDL tissues stored in all tested media was dampened.

Conclusions

PDL cells from mock avulsed teeth stored in 0.625 mg mL−1 Thai propolis extract for 3, 6 and 12 hours remained viable and the expression of periostin was preserved. This study suggests this extract as an alternative for a tooth storage medium for up to 12 hours. However, transporting an avulsed tooth in a storage medium for extended extra‐oral time might affect the PDL cell phenotypes.
Mandible fractures and dental injuries related to road traffic accidents over a 12‐year period—Retrospective multicentre study
Authors: Nogami Shinnosuke , Yamauchi Kensuke , Morishima Hiromitsu , Otake Yoshio , Kouketsu Atsumu , Higuchi Keisuke , Hirotani Hiroaki , Kumagai Masahiro , Takahashi Tetsu
Published: November 2020

Background/Aim

Road traffic accidents (RTAs) are a common cause of maxillofacial injuries. The aim of this retrospective multicentre study was to investigate the characteristics of maxillofacial fractures and dental injuries that occurred in RTAs in Miyagi, Japan.

Materials and Methods

The records of 404 patients with maxillofacial injuries treated at the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Departments of four different institutions over a period of 12 years were analysed. Ninety‐nine of these patients had suffered these injuries in an RTA. RTA‐related cases were divided according to age, gender, presentation month, presentation day of the week, transportation mode, time of accident, fracture sites and fracture mechanism.

Results

There were 72 males and 27 females who suffered injuries as the result of an RTA, for a male‐to‐female ratio of 2.7:1.0, with a mean age of 35.3 years (range, 1‐86 years old). Most of the accidents occurred in June and on a Wednesday, and most of the affected patients were riding a bicycle at the time. The number of patients with maxillofacial injuries related to bicycle riding showed an increasing trend in recent years. Mandible fractures were the most prevalent, followed by dental injuries and maxilla fractures. In cases with a single fracture of the mandible, the symphysis was the most frequent site, while in those with multiple fractures, the association of symphysis and bi‐lateral condyle fractures was the greatest. For bicycle‐related accidents, a single fracture in the mandible occurred more often than multiple fractures.

Conclusions

The number of RTA‐related injuries while bicycle riding showed an increasing trend with mandible fractures commonly seen in those cases. Efforts to reduce maxillofacial injuries related to bicycle accidents are needed.
Analysis and prevention of ergonomic risk factors among dental students
Authors: Pejčić Nataša , Petrović Vanja , Đurić‐Jovičić Milica , Medojević Nataša , Nikodijević‐Latinović Angelina
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Dentistry is a high‐risk profession for the development of work‐related disorders. Dental students are also exposed to several risk factors. The goal of the study was to determine and localise musculoskeletal pain during dental work, afterwards to measure electromyography signals from the muscles groups mostly affected by the musculoskeletal pain. Study was done in order to provide possible suggestions for the most effective preventive measures of MS pain among dental students.

Materials and Methods

In order to solve the objectives, the research was realised in two segments. In the first part of the study, specially designed questionnaires were used to determine the frequency of musculoskeletal pain, risk factors and preventive measures among students. The second part of the study included electromyography analyses of muscular activity of students during dental work. Inclinometers also were set up in the purpose of monitoring inclination of the spine.

Results

Results of the questionnaire study indicated that pain during work was frequent, 81.8% of all the subjects reported pain during work. The recorded muscle activity of the neck muscles indicated a high ergonomic risk, while the muscle activity of the shoulders and back muscles indicated a medium risk. Work with a back flexion of 20 degrees and more indicates that students are at risk.

Conclusion

Dental students used to work in unnatural working position. High ergonomic risk occurred in neck muscles. Students should be aware of the potential risks during work and to learn how to prevent it. Regular physical activity is strongly suggested to the students in order to avoid ergonomic problems.
Students at Saarland University dental school—A survey on their background and curriculum perception
Authors: Meyer Birgit , Karl Matthias , Luft Torsten , Koch Simon , Grobecker‐Karl Tanja , Steiner Constanze
Published: November 2020

Introduction

With the aim of optimising dental education without overburdening students, new legislation restructuring the undergraduate dental curriculum in German is under way. The goal of this study was to survey the current situation of dental students at one specific university with respect to their socio‐economic background, admission to dental school, curriculum perception and work‐life balance.

Materials and methods

An online questionnaire was presented to all undergraduate students enrolled at Saarland University who had at least completed the first preclinical practical course in dentistry.

Results

A response rate of 85% was reached with two‐thirds of the student body being females. The profession of 40% of students' parents either was physicians or dentist. Students reported a slight reduction in time spent for leisure activities during their studies, however, with sports activities hardly being affected. With respect to a proper work‐life balance, almost 50% of respondents considered their clinical workload as being too high. Students did not express a clear opinion regarding curriculum structure, whilst the content mostly satisfied their expectations (59%). The majority (71%) of students considered their preclinical training as being demanding whilst less than 3% fully agreed that preclinical training provided an optimal background for patient treatment. The learning modules in the first clinical semester were considered as being adequate by 56% of students. Examinations during courses were seen as properly reflecting the students' knowledge by 79% of students.

Discussion

The status quo of German dental students is characterised by a high workload affecting the students' work‐life balance and by a transition between preclinical and clinical education which only about half the student body perceives as being adequate. Patient‐based examinations obviously are not considered as being problematic.
Biomarker‐based stability in limbic‐predominant amnestic mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Tondo Giacomo , Carli Giulia , Santangelo Roberto , Mattoli Maria Vittoria , Presotto Luca , Filippi Massimo , Magnani Giuseppe , Iannaccone Sandro , Cerami Chiara , Perani Daniela ,   for the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: November 2020

Background

The amnestic presentation of mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) represents the most common prodromal stage of Alzheimer's disease (AD) dementia. There is, however, some evidence of aMCI with typical amnestic syndrome but showing long‐term clinical stability. The ability to predict stability or progression to dementia in the aMCI condition is important, particularly for the selection of candidates in clinical trials. We aimed to establish the role of in vivo biomarkers, as assessed by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) measures and [18F]fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)‐positron emission tomography (PET) imaging, in predicting prognosis in a large aMCI cohort.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study, including 142 aMCI subjects who had a long follow‐up (4–19 years), baseline CSF data and [18F]FDG‐PET scans individually assessed by validated voxel‐based procedures, classifying subjects into either limbic‐predominant or AD‐like hypometabolism patterns.

Results

The two aMCI cohorts were clinically comparable at baseline. At follow‐up, the aMCI group with a limbic‐predominant [18F]FDG‐PET pattern showed clinical stability over a very long follow‐up (8.20 ± 3.30 years), no decline in Mini‐Mental State Examination score, and only 7% conversion to dementia. Conversely, the aMCI group with an AD‐like [18F]FDG‐PET pattern had a high rate of dementia progression (86%) over a shorter follow‐up (6.47 ± 2.07 years). Individual [18F]FDG‐PET hypometabolism patterns predicted stability or conversion with high accuracy (area under the curve = 0.89), sensitivity (0.90) and specificity (0.89). In the limbic‐predominant aMCI cohort, CSF biomarkers showed large variability and no prognostic value.

Conclusions

In a large series of clinically comparable subjects with aMCI at baseline, the specific [18F]FDG‐PET limbic‐predominant hypometabolism pattern was associated with clinical stability, making progression to AD very unlikely. The identification of a biomarker‐based benign course in aMCI subjects has important implications for prognosis and in planning clinical trials.
Mountain treelines climb slowly despite rapid climate warming
Authors: Lu Xiaoming , Liang Eryuan , Wang Yafeng , Babst Flurin , Camarero J. Julio
Published: November 2020

Aim

To better understand how climate change drives altitudinal treeline dynamics at large spatial scales.

Location

Northern Hemisphere.

Time period

1901–2018.

Major taxa studied

Tree species that constitute alpine treelines.

Methods

We conducted a meta‐analysis of annual treeline shift rates at 143 sites from 38 published studies. For each site, we calculated current change rates in annual or seasonal temperatures, precipitation and drought (standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index). We then evaluated relationships between treeline shift rates, and site characteristics and climate using standard and partial correlation analyses, as well as generalized linear models. These analyses were conducted at the hemispheric scale and for two geographic subsets of subarctic (north of 60° N) and temperate regions (south of 60° N).

Results

Treelines ascended at 88.8%, remained stable at 10.5% and descended at 0.7% of the sites. The mean hemispheric shift rate (0.354 m/year) was half of what would be expected from climate warming alone. Treeline shifts were significantly faster in subarctic than temperate regions. The precipitation effect was more important than temperature for predicting treeline shift rate. In the subarctic regions, autumn precipitation mostly determined treeline shift rates. In the temperate region, warmer temperatures and higher autumn precipitation accelerated shift rates, whereas wetter springs reduced them. Autumn precipitation and winter mean minimum temperature best explained the treeline shift rates across the Northern Hemisphere.

Main conclusions

A combination of thermal and hydrological factors drives treeline shift rates across the Northern Hemisphere, with precipitation assuming an important modifying role of the general temperature‐driven treeline ascent. Regional treeline shift rates, therefore, co‐depend on drying and wetting trends, which should be considered in future estimates of global change impacts on alpine ecosystems.
Gastric foveolar elongation causes invisibility of regular arrangement of collecting venules in chronic active and inactive gastritis
Authors: Yuan Cong , Lin Xue‐Mei , Ou Yan , Cheng Qian , Cai Lin , Zhou Ping , Liao Juan
Published: November 2020

Objectives

Helicobacter pylori(H pylori) infection is the most common cause of gastritis. The disappearance of regular arrangement of collecting venules (RAC) is well known as one of the main manifestations ofH pylori‐affected gastritis while the reason behind it remains obscure. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between invisibility of RAC and the length of gastric foveolae.

Methods

43 RAC‐positive and 118 RAC‐negative patients were enrolled. Gastric biopsy specimens were obtained from lesser and greater curvature of the corpus with RAC‐positive or RAC‐negative pattern. Histopathological evaluation was performed based on the updated Sydney System, and foveolar length was derived by a morphometric technique.

Results

The median gastric foveolar length in RAC‐positive group (median [IQR], 138.54 μm [120.50, 159.09]) was significantly shorter than that in the RAC‐negative group (median [IQR], 260.96 μm [217.40, 315.23],P < .05). The length of gastric foveolae in chronic active gastritis (RAC‐negative, activity grades 1, 2, and 3) and inactive gastritis (RAC‐negative, activity grade 0) was longer than that in normal group (RAC‐positive, activity grade 0) (P < .05). The optimal cutoff value for gastric foveolae length of the corpus mucosa showing RAC‐negative pattern was more than 181.53 μm. The sensitivity and specificity of more than cutoff value for predicting the invisibility of RAC were 93.03% and 91.78%, respectively.

Conclusions

The elongation of gastric foveolae caused the invisibility of RAC in gastric corpus mucosa in chronic active and inactive gastritis on gastroendoscopy.
Antithrombin attenuates the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma by regulating neutrophil/interleukin‐8 signaling
Authors: Okimoto Sho , Tashiro Hirotaka , Iwako Hiroshi , Kuroda Shintaro , Kobayashi Tsuyoshi , Hinoi Takao , Ohdan Hideki
Published: November 2020

Aim

Inflammation plays an important role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression. Here, we examined whether antithrombin (AT) plays a role in attenuating HCC progression, via its anti‐inflammatory effects.

Methods

HCCs were developed in AT‐insufficient (AT+/−) mice and wild‐type (AT+/+) mice treated with diethyl nitrosamine and carbon tetrachloride. AT was administered to AT+/− mice. The development of HCC was compared between the three groups. In vitro study, migration assay was performed. The association of the prognosis of patients with HCC and plasma AT values was clinically examined.

Results

AT suppressed the release of interleukin (IL)‐8 from lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐stimulated human neutrophils in vitro. Huh‐7 cells that were co‐cultured with neutrophils and stimulated with LPS showed significantly enhanced migration; however, Huh‐7 cells co‐cultured with LPS/AT‐stimulated neutrophils showed significantly decreased migration. Moreover, the addition of anti‐IL‐8 antibodies to LPS‐stimulated Huh‐7 cells co‐cultured with neutrophils also suppressed migration. AT+/− mice (AT plasma activity: 64%) promoted liver cancer, as compared with wild‐type mice (AT plasma activity: 135%); AT administration attenuated liver cancer in AT+/− mice. Patients with HCC with a preoperative AT level of ≥70% showed better outcomes after liver resection, as compared with those with an AT level of <70%. IL‐8 expression and neutrophil infiltration in HCC tissues were negatively correlated with the AT level.

Conclusions

AT attenuates HCC progression by regulating neutrophil/IL‐8 signaling.