bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Firm performance and diversification in the energy sector
Authors: Westerman Wim , De Ridder Adri , Achtereekte Marijn
Published: June 2020

Purpose

The study aims to fill a gap in the literature on the economic impact of industrial and international diversification on firm performance in the energy sector. Li et al. (2016) investigate firms listed in China, and this study analyzes firms listed in (Western) Europe.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 129 energy firms is extracted from Datastream and covers the period from January 2009 to December 2015. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses are used to determine a plausible relation of diversification on corporate performance. Also, the difference between renewable energy firms and conventional energy firms is explored.

Findings

A univariate analysis using both return on assets andTobin's Qas a variable shows that renewable energy firms have a higher profitability than conventional energy firms. However, a multivariate analysis does not confirm this result. The authors also document a negative relation between diversification strategies and firm performance.

Research limitations/implications

The study uses main industry codes. Yet, one might make a distinction between renewable energy and conventional energy amounts with corporations. Also, the authors cover financial crisis years. Researchers might take into account more recent years.

Practical implications

The findings of the study highlight the importance of short-term and long-term considerations for practitioners related to demand, the energy mix, oil prices and firm strategies.

Originality/value

The authors contribute to the debate and the literature when identifying similarities and differences between conventional energy firms and renewable energy firms in their application of diversification strategies and their (relation to) firm performance.
One size does not fit all: external driver of the cryptocurrency world
Authors: Erzurumlu Yaman Omer , Oygur Tunc , Kirik Alper
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Considering the different motivation for the creation of each of these cryptocurrencies, the purpose of this paper is to examine whether there is a dominant external factor in the cryptocurrency world. Using a novel two-step time and frequency independent methodology, the authors examine a large scope of cryptocurrencies and external factors within the same period, and analytical framework.

Design/methodology/approach

The examined cryptocurrencies are Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple, Litecoin, Monero and Dash. In total, 18 external factors from 5 factor families are selected based on the mining motivation of these cryptocurrencies. The study first examines discrete wavelet transform-based (WTB) correlations, reduce the dimension and focuson relevant pairs. Selected pairs are further examined by wavelet coherence to capture the intermittent nature of the relationships allowing the most needed “Flexibility of frequency and time domains”.

Findings

Each coin appears to operate as a unique character with the exception of Bitcoin and Litecoin. There is no prominent external driver. The cryptocurrency market is not a clear substitute for a specific factor or market. Two-step WTB filtered wavelet coherence analysis help us to analyze a large number of factor without the loss of focus. The co-movements within the cryptocurrencies spillover from Ethereum to altcoins and later to Bitcoin.

Originality/value

The study presents one of the first examples of two-step WTB filtered wavelet coherence analysis. The methodology suggests an approach for simultaneous examination of large number of variables. The scope of the study provides a rather holistic view of the co-movements of external factors and major cryptocurrencies.
The relationship between psychopathy and financial risk and time preferences
Authors: Shank Corey A. , Dupoyet Brice , Durand Robert , Patterson Fernando
Published: June 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between psychopathy and its underlying traits and financial risk and time preferences.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors measure risk and time preferences using both the cumulative prospect theory and quasi-hyperbolic time discounting in a sample of business majors. The Psychopathic Personality Inventory – Revised test is then used to measure the global psychopathy and eight primary and two secondary traits of the sample of business majors. The measures of psychopathy are used as explanatory variables to model variation in subjects’ time and risk preferences.

Findings

The authors find that the overall score on the continuum of psychopathy is positively related to the linearity of the cumulative prospective utility function. A breakdown of psychopathy into its secondary and primary traits shows a more complex relation. For example, the secondary trait of self-centered impulsivity is statistically significant in models of financial risk preference determinants under the cumulative prospect theory. The authors find that the primary traits of self-centered impulsivity and stress immunity are related to a higher time preference discount rate under quasi-hyperbolic time preferences.

Originality/value

This paper adds to the literature on personality and financial decisions and highlights the importance of psychopathy in finance.
Multisensory rooms: essential characteristics and barriers to effective practice
Authors: Grace Joanna
Published: June 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to identify the characteristics practitioners consider essential to effective multisensory rooms and the barriers they experience when trying to realise the potential of such rooms.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents semi-structured interviews with 27 multisensory room practitioners from a range of backgrounds followed by analysis to identify key characteristics and barriers.

Findings

Eleven positive room characteristics were identified. The three deemed most significant were that the rooms are dark, activity associated and uninterrupted spaces. Two negative room characteristics were identified: inaccessible design and broken equipment. Ten barriers to effective multisensory room practice were identified and grouped according to themes of logistics, suboptimal usage and practitioner capabilities.

Research limitations/implications

The research focuses on a small self-selecting sample, coded by one person acting independently of any institution. This is an under researched area which would benefit from further more rigorous investigation.

Practical implications

This research enables practitioners to remove barriers to effective multisensory room practice and to focus on the characteristics most significant in generating benefits for room users. Understanding of the essential characteristics and potential barriers to effective practice will allow practitioners to better exploit limited resources of time, money and staffing.

Originality/value

Past research into multisensory rooms has focused on specific user groups or specific multisensory environments. This research examined multisensory room practice across both a range of environments and a range of users, giving an original overview of current multisensory room usage in the UK.
Idea paper: Airport ecology, an environment without predation pressure drives evolution
Authors: Hayashi Ryota , Tsurui‐Sato Kaori
Published: June 2020

Evolutionary changes in organisms are directly observable, and they can occur rapidly in the presence of strong natural selection. Here, we present the “airport ecology” to describe the rapid evolution of animals. The pygmy grasshopper Tetrix japonica exhibits significant variations in pronotum color and markings and is a good model organism for “airport ecology.” There are trade‐offs in black‐spot markings in the pygmy grasshoppers; although it helps in camouflaging and reducing predation pressure, it stimulates overheating, resulting in a reduction in mating opportunities and foraging success under high solar irradiance. Therefore, the frequency of black‐spotted morphs is lower at lower latitudes than at higher latitudes along a latitudinal cline. However, in an airport where predation pressure is reduced by the removal of predatory bird populations, we predict that the frequency of black‐spotted morphs of T. japonica will be lower in habitats without predators than in those with predators at the same latitude; this demonstrates the anthropogenic effect on T. japonica polymorphism. As suggested here, predator‐free environments such as airports are valuable for illustrating the effects of anthropogenic activity on animal evolution. These findings can be extended to several other species that are found around airports and are potentially preferred by avian predators in terms of not only rapid evolution of color polymorphism but also evolution of various life‐history traits.
Double filtration plasmapheresis: Review of current clinical applications
Authors: Hirano Ryuichiro , Namazuda Kenichiro , Hirata Noriko
Published: June 2020

Double filtration plasmapheresis (DFPP) is a semi‐selective blood purification modality derived from the plasma exchange (PE) modality. In the DFPP treatment, two types of filters with different pore sizes are used: a plasma separator and a plasma component separator. Blood is separated into plasma and blood cells using a plasma separator. The separated plasma is fractionated into large and small molecular weight components by a plasma component separator. Large molecular weight components, including pathogenic substances, are discarded. Small molecular weight components, including valuable substances such as albumin, are returned to the patient. The advantage of DFPP is that the volume of replacement fluid can be significantly reduced compared to PE. By selecting the optimal pore size model for the plasma component separator, DFPP can be applied to various disorders. The clinical applications of DFPP are reviewed based on recent articles on metabolic disorders, organ transplants, rheumatic disorders, neurological disorders, and dermatologic disorders.
Additive effects of metal excess and superoxide, a highly toxic mixture in bacteria
Authors: Steunou Anne Soisig , Babot Marion , Bourbon Marie‐Line , Tambosi Reem , Durand Anne , Liotenberg Sylviane , Krieger‐Liszkay Anja , Yamaichi Yoshiharu , Ouchane Soufian
Published: June 2020

Heavy metal contamination is a serious environmental problem. Understanding the toxicity mechanisms may allow to lower concentration of metals in the metal‐based antimicrobial treatments of crops, and reduce metal content in soil and groundwater. Here, we investigate the interplay between metal efflux systems and the superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the purple bacterium Rubrivivax gelatinosus and other bacteria through analysis of the impact of metal accumulation. Exposure of the Cd2+‐efflux mutant ΔcadA to Cd2+ caused an increase in the amount and activity of the cytosolic Fe‐Sod SodB, thereby suggesting a role of SodB in the protection against Cd2+. In support of this conclusion, inactivation of sodB gene in the ΔcadA cells alleviated detoxification of superoxide and enhanced Cd2+ toxicity. Similar findings were described in the Cu+‐efflux mutant with Cu+. Induction of the Mn‐Sod or Fe‐Sod in response to metals in other bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Pseudomonas putida, Vibrio cholera and Bacillus subtilis, was also shown. Both excess Cd2+ or Cu+ and superoxide can damage [4Fe‐4S] clusters. The additive effect of metal and superoxide on the [4Fe‐4S] could therefore explain the hypersensitive phenotype in mutants lacking SOD and the efflux ATPase. These findings underscore that ROS defence system becomes decisive for bacterial survival under metal excess.
Finding the body mass index cutoff for hospital readmission after ambulatory hernia surgery
Authors: Rosero Eric B. , Joshi Girish P.
Published: June 2020

Background

The suitability of ambulatory surgery in obese patients remains controversial. This study aimed to investigate the “cutoff” value of body mass index (BMI) associated with increased likelihood of hospital readmissions within the first 24 hours of surgery in patients undergoing ambulatory hernia repair.

Materials and Methods

The study used data from the 2012‐2016 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement (ACS‐NSQIP). Cochran Armitage trend tests were conducted to assess progression in rates hospital readmissions across categories of patient BMI. The minimum p‐value method, Kolmogorov‐Smirnov goodness of fit tests, logistic regression, and receiver‐operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were used to investigate the cutoff of patient BMI indicative of increased likelihood of readmissions.

Results

A total of 214,125 ambulatory hernia repair cases were identified. Of those, 908 patients (0.42%) had an unexpected hospital admission within the first 24 hours after surgery. The readmission rates did not significantly increase across the categories of BMI. However, some of the reasons for readmission significantly differed by BMI category. Logistic regression analysis revealed no statistically significant association between BMI and hospital readmissions (odds ratio [95% Cl], 0.96 [0.91‐1.02] P = .179). An optimal BMI threshold predictive of an increased likelihood of hospital readmissions was not identifiable by any of the statistical methods used.

Conclusions

Although reasons for readmission differed by BMI category, there is no clear cutoff value of BMI associated with increased hospital readmission within the first 24 hours after surgery.
Individual variation of the SARS‐CoV‐2 receptor ACE2 gene expression and regulation
Authors: Chen Jiawei , Jiang Quanlong , Xia Xian , Liu Kangping , Yu Zhengqing , Tao Wanyu , Gong Wenxuan , Han Jing‐Dong J.
Published: June 2020

The COVID‐19 coronavirus is now spreading worldwide. Its pathogen, SARS‐CoV‐2, has been shown to use angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) as its host cell receptor, same as the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS‐CoV) in 2003. Epidemiology studies found males although only slightly more likely to be infected than females account for the majority of the severely ill and fatality, which also bias for people older than 60 years or with metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Here by analyzing GTEx and other public data in 30 tissues across thousands of individuals, we found a significantly higher level in Asian females, an age‐dependent decrease in all ethnic groups, and a highly significant decrease in type II diabetic patients of ACE2 expression. Consistently, the most significant expression quantitative loci (eQTLs) contributing to high ACE2 expression are close to 100% in East Asians, >30% higher than other ethnic groups. A shockingly common enrichment of viral infection pathways was found among ACE2 anti‐expressed genes, and multiple binding sites of virus infection related transcription factors and sex hormone receptors locate at ACE2 regulatory regions. Human and mice data analysis further revealed ACE2 expression is reduced in T2D patients and with inflammatory cytokine treatment and upregulated by estrogen and androgen (both decrease with age). Our findings revealed a negative correlation between ACE2 expression and COVID‐19 fatality at both population and molecular levels. These results will be instrumental when designing potential prevention and treatment strategies for ACE2 binding coronaviruses in general.
Are Friday announcements special in a continuous disclosure environment?
Authors: Chapple Larelle , Duong Lien , Truong Thu Phuong
Published: June 2020

We re‐test the intuition that investors and traders could be preoccupied with the upcoming weekend and pay less attention to Friday corporate announcements in the continuous disclosure environment of Australia. The market reaction to Friday announcements in the US, except for earnings announcements, disappears after correcting for selection bias. However, there is no evidence of investor inattention to Friday announcements in Australia, indicating that a continuous disclosure environment improves disclosure timeliness and market efficiency. The investor attention theory is significantly challenged in a unique natural setting where the potential selection bias to delay material information release to Fridays is eliminated.
Effects of 25‐hydroxycholecalciferol supplementation in maternal diets on reproductive performance and the expression of genes that regulate lactation in sows
Authors: Wang Kai , Chen Yun , Zhang DeLong , Wang RongGen , Zhao ZhiHong , Feng MeiYing , Wei HengXi , Li Li , Zhang Shouquan
Published: June 2020

One hundred Yorkshire × Landrace sows were randomly assigned to one of two dietary treatments (diet ND: 6,000 IU vitamin D3/d feed; diet 25‐D: 200 μg/day 25OHD3 feed). The experiment began on d 90 of gestation and continued until weaning on day 21 of lactation. In sows that received 25OHD3, the growth rate of the piglets before weaning was significantly accelerated (0.266 kg/day, p < .05). Sow serum was collected after weaning, and those in the 25OHD3 group were found to have significantly higher serum calcium (CA) and phosphorus (PI) levels (p < .05). Interestingly, the oestrus cycle of sows fed 25OHD3 was significantly shortened (p < .05), the oestrus time was concentrated on the fifth day after weaning, and the piglets were born with a higher degree of uniformity (p < .05). Colostrum was collected on the day of delivery, and the colostrum of sows fed 25OHD3 contained higher milk fat content than the control group (p < .05). 25OHD3 supplementation increased the mRNA and protein expression of INSIG1 and SREBP1, which regulate milk fat synthesis, in the mammary gland of lactating sows (p < .05). In conclusion, 25OHD3 supplementation in maternal diets improved reproductive performance, milk fat content and the mRNA and protein levels of genes regulating milk fat synthesis in lactating sows.
Ensiling of total mixed ration containing persimmon peel: Evaluation of chemical composition and in vitro rumen fermentation profiles
Authors: Fitri Ainissya , Obitsu Taketo , Sugino Toshihisa , Jayanegara Anuraga
Published: June 2020

The effects of inclusion of persimmon peel (PP) in total mixed ration (TMR) silage on its nutrient composition, tannin content, and in vitro ruminal fermentation were studied. Four types of TMR silages containing 0, 50, 100, and 150 g/kg of PP on a dry matter basis were prepared. The dietary contents of non‐fiber carbohydrate (NFC) decreased, while soluble protein fraction increased after ensiling of the TMR. In the TMR silages, the content of insoluble tannin increased (p < .05) with increasing PP level. The fraction of soluble protein decreased linearly (p < .01), while that of neutral detergent insoluble protein increased linearly (p < .01) with increasing the PP level in the TMR silages. The total gas and methane yields from the in vitro rumen fermentation of the TMR silages were lower (p < .01) than those of pre‐ensiled TMR and declined linearly (p < .01) with increasing PP level. These results indicate that adding PP to TMR silage may resist the breakdown of dietary protein during the ensiling process, although the ruminal fermentability of TMR possibly decreased after ensiling due to the loss of NFC.
Model informed dosing of hydroxycholoroquine in COVID‐19 patients: Learnings from the recent experience, remaining uncertainties and gaps
Authors: Thémans Pauline , Dauby Nicolas , Schrooyen Loïc , Lebout Faustine , Delforge Marc , Nasreddine Rakan , Libois Agnès , Payen Marie‐Christine , Konopnicki Déborah , Wuillaume Francoise , Lescrainier Cecile , Verlinden Veerle , Dogné Jean‐Michel , Hamdani Jamila , Musuamba Flora T.
Published: June 2020

Aims

In the absence of a commonly agreed dosing protocol based on pharmacokinetic (PK) considerations, the dose and treatment duration for hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) in COVID‐19 disease currently vary across national guidelines and clinical study protocols. We have used a model‐based approach to explore the relative impact of alternative dosing regimens proposed in different dosing protocols for hydroxychloroquine in COVID‐19.

Methods

We compared different PK exposures using Monte Carlo simulations based on a previously published population pharmacokinetic model in patients with rheumatoid arthritis, externally validated using both independent data in lupus erythematous patients and recent data in French COVID‐19 patients. Clinical efficacy and safety information from COVID‐19 patients treated with HCQ were used to contextualize and assess the actual clinical value of the model predictions.

Results

Literature and observed clinical data confirm the variability in clinical responses in COVID‐19 when treated with the same fixed doses. Confounding factors were identified that should be taken into account for dose recommendation. For 80% of patients, doses higher than 800 mg day on day 1 followed by 600 mg daily on following days might not be needed for being cured. Limited adverse drug reactions have been reported so far for this dosing regimen, most often confounded by co‐medications, comorbidities or underlying COVID‐19 disease effects.

Conclusion

Our results were clear, indicating the unmet need for characterization of target PK exposures to inform HCQ dosing optimization in COVID‐19. Dosing optimization for HCQ in COVID‐19 is still an unmet need. Efforts in this sense are a prerequisite for best benefit/risk balance.
Prostate‐specific membrane antigen theranostics in advanced prostate cancer: an evolving option
Authors: Mayor Nikhil , Sathianathen Niranjan J. , Buteau James , Koschel Samantha , Antón Juanilla Marta , Kapoor Jada , Azad Arun , Hofman Michael S. , Murphy Declan G.
Published: June 2020

Objectives

To review current data for the role of prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA) radioligand therapy (RLT) for patients with advanced prostate cancer. This review provides an update for multidisciplinary teams on the current and potential future applications of theranostics in prostate cancer.

Methods

Narrative review focussing on PSMA as a target for RLT, and data using

Results

RLT with PSMA is an exciting therapeutic alternative to the existing management options already in use for patients with metastatic castrate‐resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). To date, most evidence exists regarding small‐molecule PSMA inhibitors bound to beta‐emitting radioisotopes such as 177Lu (Lu‐PSMA). Prospective phase II data supports the safety and efficacy of Lu‐PSMA in men with heavily pre‐treated progressive mCRPC, and several late‐phase randomised trials of Lu‐PSMA are underway, with many more in the pipeline. Early results are encouraging, indicating that the theranostic approach may play a vital role in management of advanced prostate cancer and perhaps even in much earlier disease states.

Conclusions

PSMA RLT is a promising new treatment option for men with mCPRC, and may also have utility in less advanced prostate cancer.
Bridging the academic‐policy gap in Canadian defence: What more can be done?
Authors: Juneau Thomas , Lagassé Philippe
Published: June 2020

This article assesses the academia‐policy gap in Canadian defence. The field of Canadian defence studies is inherently interested in the work of defence practitioners, and the Department of National Defence has had an ongoing interest in supporting academic defence expertise. A gap nonetheless persists between the two communities, owing to their different cultures, approaches, and objectives. Drawing on personal experiences as members of both the academic and policy worlds and on findings from semi‐structured interviews with serving and retired defence officials, the article examines the nature of academia‐policy gap in Canadian defence, the factors that make the gap persist, and what measures can help bridge the gap.
A review of factors to consider when using camera traps to study animal behavior to inform wildlife ecology and conservation
Authors: Caravaggi Anthony , Burton A. Cole , Clark Douglas A. , Fisher Jason T. , Grass Amelia , Green Sian , Hobaiter Catherine , Hofmeester Tim R. , Kalan Ammie K. , Rabaiotti Daniella , Rivet Danielle
Published: June 2020

Camera traps (CTs) are an increasingly popular method of studying animal behavior. However, the impact of cameras on detected individuals—such as from mechanical noise, odor, and emitted light—has received relatively little attention. These impacts are particularly important in behavioral studies in conservation that seek to ascribe changes in behavior to relevant environmental factors. In this article, we discuss three sources of bias that are relevant to conservation behavior studies using CTs: (a) disturbance caused by cameras; (b) variation in animal‐detection parameters across camera models; and (c) biased detection across individuals and age, sex, and behavioral classes. We propose several recommendations aimed at mitigating responses to CTs by wildlife. Our recommendations offer a platform for the development of more rigorous and robust behavioral studies using CT technology and, if adopted, would result in greater applied benefits for conservation and management.
Tracing open data in emergencies: The case of the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Gkiouras Konstantinos , Nigdelis Meletios P. , Grammatikopoulou Maria G. , Goulis Dimitrios G.
Published: June 2020

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic constitutes an ongoing, burning Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). In 2015, the World Health Organization adopted an open data policy recommendation in such situations.

Objectives

The present cross‐sectional meta‐research study aimed to assess the availability of open data and metrics of articles pertaining to the COVID‐19 outbreak in five high‐impact journals.

Methods

All articles regarding the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2), published in five high‐impact journals (Ann Intern Med,BMJ,JAMA,NEJMandLancet) until March 14, 2020 were retrieved. Metadata (namely the type of article, number of authors, number of patients, citations, errata, news and social media mentions) were extracted for each article in each journal in a systematic way. Google Scholar and Scopus were used for citations and author metrics respectively, and Altmetrics and PlumX were used for news and social media mentions retrieval. The degree of adherence to the PHEIC open data call was also evaluated.

Results

A total of 140 articles were published until March 14, 2020, mostly opinion papers. Sixteen errata followed these publications. The number of authors in each article ranged from 1 to 63, whereas the number of patients with a laboratory‐confirmed SARS‐CoV‐2 infection reached 2645. Extensive hyperauthorship was evident among case studies. The impact of these publications reached a total of 4210 cumulative crude citations and 342 790 news and social media mentions. Only one publication (0.7%) provided complete open data, while 32 (22.9%) included patient data.

Conclusions

Even though a large number of manuscripts was produced since the pandemic, availability of open data remains restricted.
Unstructured Gridding for MODFLOW from Prior Groundwater Flow Models: A New Paradigm
Authors: Sbai M. Adil
Published: June 2020

This work introduces a new unstructured gridding approach relying on feedback from a previous groundwater flow model. All cells in a relatively coarse model using a rectilinear grid are recursively subdivided following a cell wise specific discharge‐based indicator to generate quadtree, octree or Voronoï grids. This technique leverages the full potential of the latest MODFLOW engines. The suitability of this approach is demonstrated on challenging single and multilayered heterogeneous formations. The proposed method is straightforward to implement in existing software packages. It supports iterative updating of groundwater flow models from the legacy rectilinear to unstructured grids.
Therapeutic efficacy of lenvatinib in hepatocellular carcinoma patients with portal hypertension
Authors: Maesaka Kazuki , Sakamori Ryotaro , Yamada Ryoko , Urabe Ayako , Tahata Yuki , Oshita Masahide , Ohkawa Kazuyoshi , Mita Eiji , Hagiwara Hideki , Tamura Shinji , Ito Toshifumi , Yakushijin Takayuki , Iio Sadaharu , Kodama Takahiro , Hikita Hayato , Tatsumi Tomohide , Takehara Tetsuo
Published: June 2020

Aim

Preserved liver function may be an important factor affecting therapeutic efficacy in hepatocellular carcinoma patients treated with lenvatinib, but not all patients can be treated while preserving liver function. This study evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of lenvatinib in patients with poor liver function with and without portal hypertension.

Methods

This prospectively registered multicenter study analyzed 93 patients treated with lenvatinib. Progression‐free survival was compared between patients with and without advanced portal hypertension according to baseline liver function. Advanced portal hypertension was defined as having both splenomegaly and any portosystemic collaterals.

Results

A total of 37 patients (40.7%) had advanced portal hypertension. Progression‐free survival did not differ between patients with and without advanced portal hypertension in the entire cohort (median 7.6 vs. 4.1 months, respectively; P = 0.148), but was significantly longer in patients with advanced portal hypertension than in those without advanced portal hypertension in the albumin‐bilirubin grade 2 or 3 group (median 7.6 vs. 2.1 months, respectively; P = 0.016). In a multivariate analysis, the presence of advanced portal hypertension was identified as the only significant predictor associated with prolonged progression‐free survival in the albumin‐bilirubin grade 2 or 3 group.

Conclusions

Advanced portal hypertension was associated with the therapeutic efficacy of lenvatinib in controlling the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with poor liver function.
Malignant tumours of the uterus and ovaries with Mullerian and germ cell or trophoblastic components have a somatic origin and are characterised by genomic instability
Authors: Acosta Andres M , Sholl Lynette M , Cin Paola D , Howitt Brooke E , Otis Christopher N , Nucci Marisa R
Published: June 2020

Aims

Tumours of the female genital tract with a combination of malignant Mullerian and germ cell or trophoblastic tumour (MMGC/T) components are usually diagnosed in postmenopausal women, and pursue an aggressive clinical course characterised by poor response to therapy and early relapses. These clinical features suggest that MMGC/T are somatic in origin, but objective molecular data to support this interpretation are lacking. This study evaluates the molecular features of nine MMGC/T, including seven tumours containing yolk sac tumour (YST), one tumour containing choriocarcinoma and one tumour containing epithelioid trophoblastic tumour. The objectives were to: (i) investigate whether MMGC/T show a distinct genetic profile and (ii) explore the relationship between the different histological components.

Methods and results

Next‐generation sequencing of paired samples demonstrated that the mutational profile of the Mullerian and non‐Mullerian components of the tumour were almost identical in all cases. Moreover, the driver mutations identified were those expected in the specific subtype of Mullerian component present in each case. In contrast, variants expected in postpubertal germ cell tumours and gestational trophoblastic tumours were not identified, and FISH for i(12p) was negative in all cases tested. In this study, mismatch repair‐proficient MMGC/T (eight of nine) were characterised by a complex copy‐number variant profile, including numerous focal, regional, arm‐level and chromosome‐level events.

Conclusions

Comparison of paired samples supports that the YST and trophoblastic tumour components of MMGC/T have a somatic origin and often show numerous copy‐number variants, suggestive of underlying genomic instability.
Cost comparison of five Australasian obesity prevention interventions for children aged from birth to two years
Authors: Brown Vicki , Tan Eng J. , Hayes Alison , Baur Louise , Campbell Karen , Taylor Rachael , Byrne Rebecca , Wen Li Ming , Hesketh Kylie D. , Moodie Marjory
Published: June 2020

Background

In the absence of rigorous evidence of cost‐effectiveness for early childhood obesity prevention interventions, the next‐best option may be for decision‐makers to consider the relevant costs of interventions when allocating resources.

Objectives

This study aimed to estimate systematically the cost of five obesity prevention interventions in children aged 0‐2 years, undertaken in research settings in Australia and New Zealand.

Methods

A standardised costing protocol informed the costing methodology, ensuring comparability of results across interventions. Micro‐costing was undertaken, with intervention costs defined from the funder perspective and valued in 2018 Australian dollars using unit costs from the trials or market rates.

Results

Interventions varied widely in their resource use. The total cost per participant ranged from $80 for the CHAT SMS intervention arm (95% UI $77‐$82) to $1135 for the Healthy Beginnings intervention (95% UI $1059‐$1189). Time costs of personnel delivering interventions contributed >50% of total intervention costs for all included studies.

Conclusions

An understanding of the costs associated with intervention delivery modes is important, alongside effectiveness. Telephone delivery may include unexpected costs associated with connection to intervention participants at convenient times. A SMS‐based intervention had the lowest delivery cost in this study.
The NLRP1 and CARD8 inflammasomes
Authors: Taabazuing Cornelius Y. , Griswold Andrew R. , Bachovchin Daniel A.
Published: June 2020

Inflammasomes are multiprotein complexes that activate inflammatory cytokines and induce pyroptosis in response to intracellular danger‐associated signals. NLRP1 and CARD8 are related germline‐encoded pattern recognition receptors that form inflammasomes, but their activation mechanisms and biological purposes have not yet been fully established. Both NLRP1 and CARD8 undergo post‐translational autoproteolysis to generate two non‐covalently associated polypeptide chains. NLRP1 and CARD8 activators induce the proteasome‐mediated destruction of the N‐terminal fragment, liberating the C‐terminal fragment to form an inflammasome. Here, we review the danger‐associated stimuli that have been reported to activate NLRP1 and/or CARD8, including anthrax lethal toxin, Toxoplasma gondii, Shigella flexneri and the small molecule DPP8/9 inhibitor Val‐boroPro, focusing on recent mechanistic insights and highlighting unresolved questions. In addition, we discuss the recently identified disease‐associated mutations in NLRP1 and CARD8, the potential role that DPP9’s protein structure plays in inflammasome regulation, and the emerging link between NLRP1 and metabolism. Finally, we summarize all of this latest research and consider the possible biological purposes of these enigmatic inflammasomes.
Telehealth‐guided home‐based maggot debridement therapy for chronic complex wounds: Peri‐ and post‐pandemic potential
Authors: Armstrong David G. , Rowe Vincent L. , D'Huyvetter Karen , Sherman Ronald A.
Published: June 2020

Patients with complex chronic lower extremity wounds require a great deal of interaction with outpatient and inpatient services. Paradoxically, these are the very patients that, because of their chronic comorbidities, are at greatest risk for COVID‐related morbidity and mortality. Disinfected Phaenicia (Lucilia) sericata (Medical Maggots; Monarch Labs, Irvine, California) were applied in a standardised fashion by a home‐health nurse with direct monitoring, guidance, and collaboration of the attending surgeon. A family member was able to change the outer dressing daily based on normal wound exudate. The inner maggot debridement therapy (MDT) dressing was changed at 2 days showing dramatic reduction in necrotic tissue, elimination of profound malodor, and no evidence of local or advancing infection. The entire initial telehealth‐guided application took approximately 20 minutes. The first telehealth‐guided MDT dressing change took 14 minutes. We used an artificial‐intelligence‐based algorithm to measure changes in wound characteristics. At day 0, 46% of the total surface area was covered in malodorous black, necrotic tissue. The first dressing change saw an elimination in assessed malodor with necrotic tissue constituting 14% of total surface area. The second dressing change at 5 days showed a greater than 99% reduction in necrotic tissue. This manuscript constitutes what we believe to be the first telehealth‐guided MDT conducted during a resource‐limited peri‐pandemic period. We believe that MDT, which is an extension of efforts regularly performed in clinic and hospital, may have the potential to reduce resource usage while potentially improving care and quality of life for people with limb and life‐threatening complications of diabetes and other chronic diseases.
Thermophysical properties and cyclic lifetime of plasma sprayed SrAl12O19 for thermal barrier coating applications
Authors: Zhou Xin , Song Wenjia , Yuan Jieyan , Gong Qingmei , Zhang Hao , Cao Xueqiang , Dingwell Donald B.
Published: June 2020

About 6‐8 wt% yttria‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ) is the industry standard material for thermal barrier coatings (TBC). However, it cannot meet the long‐term requirements for advanced engines due to the phase transformation and sintering issues above 1200°C. In this study, we have developed a magnetoplumbite‐type SrAl12O19 coating fabricated by atmospheric plasma spray, which shows potential capability to be operated above 1200°C. SrAl12O19 coating exhibits large concentrations of cracks and pores (~26% porosity) after 1000 hours heat treatment at 1300°C, while the total porosity of YSZ coatings progressively decreases from the initial value of ~18% to ~5%. Due to the contribution of porous microstructure, an ultralow thermal conductivity (~1.36 W m−1 K−1) can be maintained for SrAl12O19 coating even after 1000 hours aging at 1300°C, which is far lower than that of the YSZ coating (~1.98 W m−1 K−1). In thermal cyclic fatigue test, the SrAl12O19/YSZ double‐ceramic‐layer coating undertakes a thermal cycling lifetime of ~512 cycles, which is not only much longer than its single‐layer counterpart (~163 cycles), but also superior to that of YSZ coating (~392 cycles). These preliminary results suggest that SrAl12O19 might be a promising alternative TBC material to YSZ for applications above 1200°C.
The effects of self‐efficacy,self‐regulationand social presence on learning engagement in a large university class using flipped Learning
Authors: Doo Min Young , Bonk Curtis J.
Published: June 2020

Flipped learning recently gained attention as an effective instructional approach to enhance learning engagement, causing many universities to implement it. To enhance student engagement in large university classes, this study examined the effects of self‐efficacy, self‐regulation and social presence on learning engagement in a large university class using a flipped learning approach. A total of 390 undergraduates who were enrolled in a large general education class using flipped learning at a university in Korea participated in this study. The learners completed an online survey measuring the variables of this study. The research findings indicated that self‐regulation affected social presence as well as learning engagement. Self‐efficacy affected social presence and indirectly affected learning engagement through social presence. Finally, social presence affected learning engagement. Social presence also mediated the relationship between self‐efficacy and learning engagement as well as between self‐regulation and learning engagement. This study confirmed the significant effects of self‐regulation and social presence on students' learning engagement in large university classes.
What drives changes in the virulence and antibiotic resistance of Vibrio harveyi in the South China Sea?
Authors: Deng Yiqin , Xu Liwen , Liu Songlin , Wang Qian , Guo Zhixun , Chen Chang , Feng Juan
Published: June 2020

To understand the driving environmental factors in changes of bacterial virulence and antibiotic resistance, we determined the prevalence, antibiotic resistance and antibiotic resistance and virulence genes of Vibrio harveyi isolated from diseased marine fish in south coastal China. We isolated 2, 52 and 53 V. harveyi strains from Fujian, Hainan and Guangdong, respectively, and identified them by multilocus sequence analysis of 16S rRNA‐toxRVh‐rctB. Nine typical virulence genes were represented at a higher average in Hainan (7.39 ± 0.24) than in Guangdong (6.91 ± 0.28). Five atypical virulence genes were detected in some isolates. In particular, flaC and vvh were detected in more than 60% of isolates. Their average number was significantly higher in Hainan (2.30 ± 0.20) than in Guangdong (1.70 ± 0.10). Multidrug resistance was widespread with an average resistance to 4.57 ± 0.18 of 15 antibiotics. Both the average number of antibiotic resistance and antibiotic resistance genes were higher in Hainan (5.25 ± 0.27 and 1.11 ± 0.15, respectively) than in Guangdong (3.87 ± 0.21 and 0.75 ± 0.10, respectively). This study demonstrated that there were more virulence genes and greater drug resistance in Hainan than in Guangdong, suggesting that warmer temperature and antibiotics pollutants probably enhance antibiotic resistance and bacterial infection.
Effects of oilseed substrates (ground nyjer and flax seeds) on the growth and Ochratoxin A production by Aspergillus carbonarius
Authors: Gizachew Dawit , De La Torre Sandra , Szonyi Barbara , Ting Wei‐tsyi Evert
Published: June 2020

Aspergillus carbonarius is one of the major Ochratoxin A (OTA) producing fungus. Nyjer and flax seeds are important oilseeds that are used for both human and animal consumption, but they are highly susceptible to fungal growth and mycotoxin contamination. The objectives of this study were to determine the growth and OTA production by A. carbonarius on ground nyjer and flax seeds with water activity levels ranging from 0.82 to 0.98 aw at three incubation temperatures (20, 30, 37°C). It was found that A. carbonarius was not able to grow on the two types of oilseeds with 0.82 or 0.86 aw. Also, the fungus was not able to grow on flax seeds with high water activity (0.98 aw). The OTA was only detected on flax seed samples with 0.94 aw at 20°C. On nyjer seeds, the highest concentration of OTA (271 μg/kg) was detected from samples with 0.98 aw incubated at 20°C for 5 days, while on flax seeds the highest OTA (146 μg/kg) was found on the seed samples with 0.94 aw incubated at 20°C for 15 days. Linear regression models also indicated that 0.98 aw was optimal for both fungal growth and OTA production on nyjer seeds. Overall, ground nyjer seed is better than flax seed to support growth and OTA production by A. carbonarius.
Trait Mindfulness and Relationship Satisfaction: The Role of Forgiveness Among Couples
Authors: Roberts Kathryn , Jaurequi Matthew E. , Kimmes Jonathan G. , Selice Lauren
Published: June 2020

This study sought to understand the link between trait mindfulness, forgiveness, and relationship satisfaction. Previous research established a significant positive relationship between mindfulness and relationship satisfaction, but forgiveness had not been studied in relation to these variables. Two hundred and nineteen couples in committed romantic relationships were included in the sample and completed self‐report measures on trait mindfulness, forgiveness, and relationship satisfaction. Upon conducting an actor–partner interdependence model mediation (APIMeM; Zeitschrift für Sozialpsychologie, 2006, 37, 27–40) analysis for dyadic data, results indicated significant positive associations for both inter and intrapersonal effects for both men and women. Findings indicated forgiveness is linked to both individual and partner mindfulness and relationship satisfaction, such that a person's ability to be mindful can impact the ability to forgive and therefore increase relationship satisfaction.
Glyphosate—A love story. Ordinary thoughtlessness and response‐ability in industrial farming
Authors: Müller Birgit
Published: June 2020

More than 8.6 billion kilograms of glyphosate have been used worldwide since the 1970s. Herbicide tolerant crops became the lynchpin of the technological revolution for large‐scale farming first in the United States and Canada, and now in Europe. Zero‐till farming, as a production scheme and a world view, is based on simplifications promoted by a handful of transnational corporations with the complicity of politicians looking for easy solutions for problems, such as climate change, erosion and the hunger in the world. At the same time, the massive use of glyphosate is branded as an endocrine disrupter, causing cancer, male sterility and infertility. It interferes with soil bacteria and acts on the equilibrium of soil fungi. Glyphosate resistant crops connect farmers to far away consumers ingesting the food they grow together with the traces of chemicals. Farmers intra‐act with the myriads of life‐forms of the soil eco‐system. How do they perceive the life in the soil, when they spray chemicals? The article explores the political dimensions of the agency of both humans and non‐humans to understand the effects of the modernizing project of zero‐till, as well as to identify spaces and scales of possibility from where alternatives can emerge.
Psychological trajectories of Chinese women undergoing pregnancy termination for foetal abnormality: A descriptive qualitative study using expressive writing
Authors: Qian Jialu , Sun Shiwen , Yang Mengye , Zhou Xiaoli , Wu Mengwei , Yu Xiaoyan
Published: June 2020

Aims and objectives

To explore the psychological trajectories of women who have had a diagnosis of foetal abnormality from the time of receiving a definite diagnosis to one month after discharge.

Background

Foetal abnormalities are not uncommon worldwide. Such situations are devastating, and the termination of a pregnancy due to foetal abnormalities is a traumatic and stressful event for the mother.

Design

A descriptive qualitative approach using expressive writing.

Methods

The study included 20 women recruited through purposive sampling at a tertiary hospital in China. The participants were asked to write four 15‐min essays related to their experiences with foetal abnormalities. Thematic analysis was used to generate themes. The COREQ checklist (see Supporting Information Appendix S1) was used.

Results

Four themes that reflected the women's psychological trajectories were identified: (a) traumatic response, (b) ruminant meditation, (c) positive coping and (d) post‐traumatic growth stages. The psychological trajectories were dynamically shaped, and different responses were displayed in each stage.

Conclusions

Various responses were observed during each of the four psychological trajectories, which indicated that awareness regarding the psychological impacts associated with foetal abnormalities should be increased. The present findings suggest that healthcare services should be made accessible for women who have had a diagnosis of foetal abnormality to allow them to receive targeted nursing care at different stages and improve their psychological well‐being.

Relevance to clinical practice

Midwives, nurses and other healthcare professionals should pay more attention to the mental health of women pregnant with foetuses diagnosed with abnormalities. Interventions designed based on women's worries and demands during various phases should be offered. In terms of the present research method, expressive writing possesses unique advantages that can be applied for relevant qualitative research.