bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinants of innovation capability: the roles of transformational leadership, knowledge sharing and perceived organizational support
Authors: Le Phong Ba , Lei Hui
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The study aims to explore the differences in transformational leadership’s (TL’s) influences on each aspect of innovation capability, namely, product innovation and process innovation. It also deepens understanding of the pathways and conditions to improve specific aspects of innovation capability by assessing the mediating role of knowledge sharing (KS) and moderating mechanism of perceived organizational support (POS).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper utilized structural equation modeling and cross-sectional design to test hypotheses in the proposed research model based on using data collected from 394 participants at 88 Chinese firms.

Findings

The findings indicate that KS mediates TL’s effects on innovation capabilities. In addition, the influences of TL and KS on specific aspects of innovation capability are different and depend on the extent of employees’ POS.

Research limitations/implications

Future studies should test mediating roles of knowledge management’s constituents and/or investigate the moderating roles of firm ownership form to increase the understanding of potential factors or key conditions that may have significant influences on a firm’s innovation capability.

Practical implications

The paper significantly contributes to increasing the understanding of the link between TL and specific aspects of innovation capability by highlighting the important role of stimulating KS and enhancing POS.

Originality/value

The paper provides useful information and valuable initiatives to increase leadership outcomes and firm’s capability for innovation.
Mobile games: players’ experiences with in-app purchases
Authors: Ravoniarison Aina , Benito Cédric
Published: January 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to offer a comprehensive perspective into Free-to-Play gamers’ attitudes, feelings toward and perceived value of in-app purchases (IAPs).

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on a twofold qualitative methodology using an inductive approach: user-generated YouTube videos and gamers’ online reviews posted on Play stores.

Findings

Eight topics have emerged out from the qualitative data related to the characteristics of a good/bad IAP, the IAPs as downsides, the ambiguity with traditional Pay-to-Play games, the financial-risk issues, the resistance behaviors, the worries about over-spending and addiction and the frustration mechanism.

Research limitations/implications

By focusing on IAPs, this research contributes to build an integrative overview to better understand how players deal with IAPs and how this interaction should be analyzed in the light of multiple frameworks. Emphasis is placed on a continuum of player responses from tolerant metacognition to high degree of subversion.

Originality/value

A twofold netnographic approach offers a novel contribution to the field of mobile games by bringing together two materials increasingly connected to the video game universe. It also brought to the fore an experiential context by providing insight into the underlying dynamics of Player/IAP interactions.
Therpackage divDyn for quantifying diversity dynamics using fossil sampling data
Authors: Kocsis Ádám T. , Reddin Carl J. , Alroy John , Kiessling Wolfgang
Published: January 2019

Unbiased time series of diversity dynamics are vital for quantifying the grand history of life. Applications include identifying ancient mass extinctions and inferring both biotic and abiotic controls on diversification rates.

We introduce divDyn, a newrpackage that facilitates the calculation of taxonomic richness, extinction and origination rates from time‐binned fossil data. State‐of‐the‐art counting protocols, and sampling standardization functions permit the reconstruction of biologically meaningful time series. Additional functions permit the partitioning of turnover rates by environmental affinity.

Using divDyn, we display Phanerozoic‐scale diversity dynamics of marine invertebrates. With the help of the core function and standard subsampling options, we revisit the hypothesis of declining taxonomic rates over time, mass extinctions and equilibrial diversity dynamics and assess their methodological dependency. Our results suggest that rates declined only over the early Phanerozoic, only three mass extinctions stand out clearly, and evidence of equilibrial dynamics is dependent on the used methods.

The modular and fast implementation of published methods ensures traceability, reproducibility and comparability of future studies.
Mesh crop covers improve potato yield and inhibit tomato potato psyllid and blight: The roles of mesh pore size and ultraviolet radiation
Authors: Merfield Charles N. , Winder Linton , Stilwell Stephen A. , Hofmann Rainer W. , Bennett Jacqueline R. , Wargent Jason J. , Hodge Simon
Published: January 2019

Crop losses caused by the tomato potato psyllid (TPP; Bactericera cockerelli) and blight (Alternaria solani; Phytophthora infestans) continue to be major concerns for potato (Solanum tuberosum) growers worldwide, and commercial crops often require frequent use of agrichemicals to maintain tuber yield and quality. Nevertheless, a paradigm shift is unfolding in crop protection where new tools, such as physical barriers and light‐modifying filters, are being used to develop chemical‐free approaches for pest and disease control. In this study, we examined the use of crop covers as a non‐chemical method for controlling TPP and reducing blight in field potatoes. Our study demonstrated that those plants grown under mesh covers exhibited reduced levels of blight, TPP and associated psyllid yellows. Additionally, potatoes grown under mesh covers exhibited increased yield (91.4 ± 6.9 SD t/ha) compared with both uncovered control plants (75.0 ± 11.8 t/ha) and plants grown using agrichemical pest control (84.5 ± 10.8 t/ha). The plants grown under mesh produced fewer smaller tubers, with increased average and maximum tuber size, so that marketable yield (tubers ≥60 g) was also increased (83.5 ± 7.5 t/ha), compared with that achieved for uncovered control plants (60.0 ± 8.3 t/ha) and plants grown using agrichemicals (69.6 ± 9.2 t/ha). A second field experiment suggested that the incidence of TPP foliage damage and the development of blight were lowest when the passage of ambient ultraviolet (UV) radiation through the crop cover was reduced. This hypothesis was supported by a third trial where potatoes grown outdoors in pots exhibited reduced TPP foliage damage and fewer resident TPP when grown under UV‐blocking plastic screens. The results of these experiments suggest that the use of mesh covers offers new opportunities to sustainably protect potato crops both by acting as a physical barrier and by modifying the wavelength of light incident on the crop.
Protecting the protected: reducing wildlife roadkill in protected areas
Authors: Collinson W. J. , Marneweck C. , Davies‐Mostert H. T.
Published: January 2019

Social media discussions highlight public concern for wildlife‐vehicle collisions (WVCs) inside protected areas. Using a quasi‐experimental field trial, we investigated factors affecting the likelihood of WVCs within Pilanesberg National Park, South Africa, and assessed the comparative effectiveness of wildlife‐warning signage (WWS) for altering driver behaviour. We laid a dummy snake crosswise on roads across four combinations of habitat and road shape and recorded 10 driver‐related variables for 1454 vehicles that passed the dummy snake, including whether there was a collision. An interaction between speeding and driver occupation (staff/visitor) was the best indicator for WVC. When driving below the speed limit, visitors were almost three times more likely than staff to hit the dummy snake. Collision probabilities increased when speeding and became more similar between visitors and staff, although still significantly higher for visitors. We then investigated the effectiveness of roadside signage in modifying driver behaviour by erecting four variations of WWS, depicting a snake or a cheetah, and in photographic or silhouette form. We positioned the dummy snake 100 m or 1 km after the signage and recorded our 10 variables (n = 6400 vehicles). Sixty‐one per cent of drivers who passed a WWS changed their behaviour when they saw the dummy snake, compared to 37% with no sign present. Further, this behaviour change significantly reduced collisions, where 98% of drivers who changed their behaviour avoided a collision. Finally, an interaction between the animal depicted and distance before the dummy snake affected collisions. A WWS depicting a snake, and placed 100 m before the dummy snake, was most effective at reducing collisions. Our results suggest that drivers adapt their behaviour to signage that portrays smaller animals and awareness retention is low. Ultimately, to reduce WVCs within protected areas, we suggest steeper penalties for speeding and WWS placed in WVC hotpot areas.
Listening to Images, Participatory Pedagogy, and Anthropological (Re‐)Inventions
Authors: Shankar Arjun
Published: January 2019

In this article, I provide examples of how listening to images produced the possibility for anthropological reinvention. I base my analysis on fieldwork conducted in Karnataka, India, and the participatory photography project we initiated together. I focus my attention on the pedagogic basis of listening and build on the premise that a multimodal anthropology of invention can “facilitate a pedagogy of engagement and performativity” (Dattatreyan and Marrero‐Guillamon 2019). I argue that listening is made possible through pedagogical methods that foreground an experience of teaching and learning in the field that, in turn, produces the kind of embodied recognition that revealed my participants’ many “practices of refusal” regarding their ruralness and who rural people are and what they do (Campt 2017). In taking these refusals seriously, I was forced to see from a perspective not already overdetermined by narratives of powerlessness, dispossession, and lack of will. In other words, a pedagogy of listening actually led me towards radical anthropological reinventions. [participation, multimodal, pedagogy, youth, India]
Understanding adolescent and parent acceptability and feasibility experience in a large Type 1 diabetes mellitus behavioural trial
Authors: Grossoehme D. H. , Smith E. , Standiford D. , Morwessel N. , Kichler J. , Maahs D. M. , Driscoll K. , Seid M.
Published: January 2019

Aims

Using an 18‐month, multisite randomized control trial as an exemplar, the aim of this study was to identify themes related to adolescent and parental feasibility and acceptability for participation in large behavioural trials designed to improve adolescents’ Type 1 diabetes self‐management.

Methods

Thematic analysis methodology was used to develop themes describing factors related to acceptability and feasibility.

Results

Based on a sample of interviews (N = 72), factors contributing to intervention acceptability and feasibility were identified. Aspects of acceptability included: a framework for goal‐setting, the coach as a non‐judgemental listener, perception of an ongoing benefit to participation and the delivery mode. Aspects of feasibility included: participants’ altruism to help adolescents with Type 1 diabetes; pre‐enrolment preparation for intervention content and duration; and the option of remote intervention delivery via telephone or video, which minimized travel time and costs. In addition, participants described positive outcomes including improvements in behaviour, Type 1 diabetes self‐management behaviours and parent–adolescent communication, and emotion–attitude changes. Participants also described potential revisions that may inform future trials.

Conclusions

Acceptability and feasibility of behavioural interventions with adolescents with chronic illness have multifactorial dimensions. While empowering adolescent self‐management, parental support is also an under‐appreciated aspect to consider. Potential revisions were identified for subsequent behavioural trials.
Education, age and skills: An analysis using PIAAC data
Authors: Calero Jorge , Murillo Huertas Inés P. , Raymond Bara Josep Lluís
Published: January 2019

The main aim of this article is to analyse the change of adult skills, as captured by cognitive skills assessed in PIAAC, across age cohorts, taking into account that the quality of schooling may change from one cohort to another. We estimate a model that relates numeracy and literacy skills to age, schooling, gender and variables related to both family background and labour market performance. The specification allows us to control for changes in the efficiency of the transformation of schooling into skills when drawing age‐skill profiles. Our results show that the effect of ageing on skills, once isolated from cohort effects related to schooling, decreases monotonically across consecutive cohorts. The change of the efficiency of the transformation of schooling into both numeracy and literacy skills shows a remarkably similar pattern. Nonetheless, this change differs substantially between education levels, with the efficiency of the transformation of schooling into skills showing a steadier profile for intermediate than for higher education. Finally, empirical evidence is provided for the decomposition of the differences in the skill levels of the older vs. the prime age generations. The results suggest that the progressive expansion of schooling across younger generations partially offsets the negative effect of the irrepressible ageing of society on skills.
Doctorate holders’ careers in Spain: Does international mobility matter?
Authors: Caparros‐Ruiz Antonio
Published: January 2019

PhD programmes are considered as transmission channels to provide specialisation and skills to students who will be employed as highly‐qualified workers or researchers. Focusing on the Spanish case, they are exerting a positive influence on workers’ careers since doctorate holders have a privileged situation in the labour market. This article analyses international mobility's effects on some aspects associated with doctorate holders’ careers such as their wages and how their current employment is related to their doctoral studies. The methodology applied consists in developing, on the one hand, a wage econometric specification and, on the other, a probit model, taking into account the possible mismatch between the training acquired in the doctoral studies and the educational requirements of the current job. In both cases, the dependent variables are explained by a set of regressors and a dummy variable showing whether doctorate holders have spent time in another country once completed their doctoral studies.
Pedology and digital soil mapping (DSM)
Authors: Ma Yuxin , Minasny Budiman , Malone Brendan P. , Mcbratney Alex B.
Published: January 2019

Pedology focuses on understanding soil genesis in the field and includes soil classification and mapping. Digital soil mapping (DSM) has evolved from traditional soil classification and mapping to the creation and population of spatial soil information systems by using field and laboratory observations coupled with environmental covariates. Pedological knowledge of soil distribution and processes can be useful for digital soil mapping. Conversely, digital soil mapping can bring new insights to pedogenesis, detailed information on vertical and lateral soil variation, and can generate research questions that were not considered in traditional pedology. This review highlights the relevance and synergy of pedology in soil spatial prediction through the expansion of pedological knowledge. We also discuss how DSM can support further advances in pedology through improved representation of spatial soil information. Some major findings of this review are as follows: (a) soil classes can be mapped accurately using DSM, (b) the occurrence and thickness of soil horizons, whole soil profiles and soil parent material can be predicted successfully with DSM techniques, (c) DSM can provide valuable information on pedogenic processes (e.g. addition, removal, transformation and translocation), (d) pedological knowledge can be incorporated into DSM, but DSM can also lead to the discovery of knowledge, and (e) there is the potential to use process‐based soil–landscape evolution modelling in DSM. Based on these findings, the combination of data‐driven and knowledge‐based methods promotes even greater interactions between pedology and DSM.

Highlights

Demonstrates relevance and synergy of pedology in soil spatial prediction, and links pedology and DSM.

Indicates the successful application of DSM in mapping soil classes, profiles, pedological features and processes.

Shows how DSM can help in forming new hypotheses and gaining new insights about soil and soil processes.

Combination of data‐driven and knowledge‐based methods recommended to promote greater interactions between DSM and pedology.
Factors affecting dental cleaning behaviour among pregnant women with gingivitis
Authors: Rahmani Azam , Hamanajm Suren Akram , Allahqoli Leila , Fallahi Arezoo
Published: January 2019

Objective

Despite the importance of oral health during pregnancy and its consequences for mother and child, dental cleaning behaviour is ineffective among pregnant women; therefore, the prevalence of gingivitis is high in this group. The aim of this study was to determine the factors affecting dental cleaning behaviour among pregnant women with gingivitis.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was carried out in Sanandaj city, in the west of Iran in 2017. Using simple random sampling, 340 pregnant women from five health comprehensive service centres were recruited in the study. Data were gathered by a two‐section questionnaire. The first section included demographic information, and the second section involved variables of trans‐theoretical model, fear of dental care and social support. Analysis of data was done by SPSS software by frequency, descriptive, Student t‐test, ANOVA, chi‐square, correlation coefficient and regression.

Results

About 50% of the pregnant women were in the first stages of dental cleaning behaviour change. The mean score of gingival index (P = 0.01), perceived barriers (P < 0.001) and fear of dental care (P = 0.04) was higher in the initial stages of behaviour change (P < 0.001). Perceived self‐efficacy was directly correlated with social support and perceived benefits (P < 0.01). Dental cleaning behaviour increased 1.59 times and 1.42 times when perceived self‐efficacy and social support were increased one unit, respectively.

Conclusions

The results showed the majority of pregnant women had a low perception of the benefits of dental cleaning behaviour, did not have adequate incentive for doing the behaviour and did not receive the required social support.
Effects of triethylene glycol dimethacrylate and hydroxyethyl methacrylate on macrophage polarization
Authors: Kim I.‐S. , Park H. C. , Quan H. , Kim Y. , Wu L. , Yang H.‐C.
Published: January 2019

Aim

To evaluate the effects of hydrophilic dental resin monomers, triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) and hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), on the polarization of a human monocyte cell line (THP‐1).

Methodology

THP‐1 cells were treated with resin monomers at noncytotoxic concentrations for 48 h and were analysed for CD86 and CD206 expressions using flow cytometry. The cells were stimulated for polarization in the presence of resin monomers (co‐treatment) or after treatment with monomers (pre‐treatment). CD86 and CD206 mRNA in co‐treated cells was evaluated using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. The release of TNF‐α and TGF‐β by pre‐treated and co‐treated cells was assessed using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Morphological changes of macrophages during polarization were observed using bright‐field microscopy. One‐way analysis of variance was used for statistical analysis.

Results

TEGDMA (1 mmol L−1) and HEMA (2 mmol L−1) did not induce CD86 and CD206 expressions in THP‐1 cells but rather inhibited their expressions in the co‐treated cells. The inhibitory effects also appeared at the transcription level. However, the expression of surface markers was not affected by pre‐treatment with resin monomers. The release of TNF‐α and TGF‐β by M1‐ and M2‐stimulated cells, respectively, was suppressed by co‐treatment (P < 0.05). Microscopic studies revealed that co‐treatment with resin monomers suppressed polarization‐associated morphological changes such as cell volume increase.

Conclusions

TEGDMA and HEMA inhibited macrophage polarization to both M1 and M2 at the transcription level, and the inhibitory effects disappeared upon the removal of resin monomers from the cell culture.
Effects of game‐based learning on students' mathematics achievement: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Tokac Umit , Novak Elena , Thompson Christopher G.
Published: January 2019

This meta‐analysis investigated the effects of learning video games on mathematics achievement of PreK‐12th‐grade students compared with traditional classroom instructional methods. Results from the 24 collected studies showed heterogeneity among effect sizes, both in magnitude and direction. Using a random effects model, a small but marginally significant overall effect (
) suggested that mathematics video games contributed to higher learning gains as compared with traditional instructional methods. In addition, moderator analyses were mixed in terms of statistical significance and explored effect‐size heterogeneity across effects using grade level, instrument type, length of game‐based intervention, country, publication type, and study year characteristics. Overall findings indicate that video games are a slightly effective instructional strategy for teaching mathematics across PreK‐12th‐grade levels.
Early outcome of a 31‐gene expression profile test in 86 AJCC stage IB‐II melanoma patients. A prospective multicentre cohort study
Authors: Podlipnik S. , Carrera C. , Boada A. , Richarz N.A. , López‐Estebaranz J.L. , Pinedo‐Moraleda F. , Elosua‐González M. , Martín‐González M.M. , Carrillo‐Gijón R. , Redondo P. , Moreno E. , Malvehy J. , Puig S.
Published: January 2019

Background

The clinical and pathological features of primary melanoma are not sufficiently sensitive to accurately predict which patients are at a greater risk of relapse. Recently, a 31‐gene expression profile (DecisionDx‐Melanoma) test has shown promising results.

Objectives

To evaluate the early prognostic performance of a genetic signature in a multicentre prospectively evaluated cohort.

Methods

Inclusion of patients with AJCC stages IB and II conducted between April 2015 and December 2016. All patients were followed up prospectively to assess their risk of relapse. Prognostic performance of this test was evaluated individually and later combined with the AJCC staging system. Prognostic accuracy of disease‐free survival was determined using Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox regression analysis. Results of the gene expression profile test were designated as Class 1 (low risk) and Class 2 (high risk).

Results

Median follow‐up time was 26 months (IQR 22–30). The gene expression profile test was performed with 86 patients; seven had developed metastasis (8.1%) and all of them were in the Class 2 group, representing 21.2% of this group. Gene expression profile was an independent prognostic factor for relapse as indicated by multivariate Cox regression analysis, adjusted for AJCC stages and age.

Conclusions

This prospective multicentre cohort study, performed in a Spanish Caucasian cohort, shows that this 31‐gene expression profile test could correctly identify patients at early AJCC stages who are at greater risk of relapse. We believe that gene expression profile in combination with the AJCC staging system could well improve the detection of patients who need intensive surveillance and optimize follow‐up strategies.
Observations on the biology and seasonal variation in feeding of the east coast round herring Etrumeus wongratanai (Clupeiformes), off Scottburgh, KwaZulu‐Natal, South Africa
Authors: Vorsatz Lyle D. , van der Lingen Carl D. , Gibbons Mark J.
Published: January 2019

The basic biology and ecology of the South African east coast round herring Etrumeus wongratanai was investigated from samples of fish collected between 2013 and 2016. This species is short‐lived and reaches a maximum of 3 years of age, with rapid growth in its first year of life. It reproduces from June to December (austral summer) and condition factor was lowest in May through to August and increased from September, probably reflecting the physiological strain before and during spawning. Fish larvae were the most important food items consumed during summer, whereas eucalanid copepods were the most important prey at other times of the year. Stable‐isotope data suggest that there are gradual changes in the trophic level with increasing fish size, δ15N and δ13C values also differed between seasons. The results obtained here are compared with those of other Etrumeus species, regionally and globally.
Inflammatory mechanisms in neurodegeneration
Authors: Nichols Michael R. , St‐Pierre Marie‐Kim , Wendeln Ann‐Christin , Makoni Nyasha J. , Gouwens Lisa K. , Garrad Evan C. , Sohrabi Mona , Neher Jonas J. , Tremblay Marie‐Eve , Combs Colin K.
Published: January 2019

This review discusses the profound connection between microglia, neuroinflammation, and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Theories have been postulated, tested, and modified over several decades. The findings have further bolstered the belief that microglia‐mediated inflammation is both a product and contributor to AD pathology and progression. Distinct microglia phenotypes and their function, microglial recognition and response to protein aggregates in AD, and the overall role of microglia in AD are areas that have received considerable research attention and yielded significant results. The following article provides a historical perspective of microglia, a detailed discussion of multiple microglia phenotypes including dark microglia, and a review of a number of areas where microglia intersect with AD and other pathological neurological processes. The overall breadth of important discoveries achieved in these areas significantly strengthens the hypothesis that neuroinflammation plays a key role in AD. Future determination of the exact mechanisms by which microglia respond to, and attempt to mitigate, protein aggregation in AD may lead to new therapeutic strategies.

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Variability of Resting‐State Functional MRI Graph Theory Metrics across 3T Platforms
Authors: Hu Ranliang , Qiu Deqiang , Guo Ying , Zhao Yujie , Leatherday Christopher , Wu Junjie , Allen Jason W.
Published: January 2019

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Graph theory analysis of brain connectivity data is a promising tool for studying the function of the healthy and diseased brain. The consistency of resting‐state functional MRI (rsfMRI) connectivity measures across multiple scanner types is an important factor in designing multi‐institutional research studies and has important implications for the potential use of this technique in a heterogeneous clinical setting. We sought to quantitatively study the interscanner variability of rsfMRI graph theory metrics obtained from healthy volunteers scanned on three different scanner platforms.

METHODS

In this prospective Institutional Review Board approved study, 9 healthy volunteers were enrolled for brain MRI on three 3T scanners (Magnetom Prisma, Skyra, and Trio, Siemens, Erlangen, Germany) in three separate scan sessions within approximately 1 week. Standard preprocessing of rsfMRI was performed with SPM12. Subject scans were normalized to Montreal Neurologic Institute (MNI) space, and connectivity of 116 regions‐of‐interests based on the automated anatomic labeling (AAL) atlas was calculated using Conn toolbox. Whole‐network graph theory metrics were calculated using Brain Connectivity Toolbox, and intraclass correlation (ICC) across three scan sessions was assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 25 rsfMRI exams were completed in 9 subjects with a median‐intersession time of 3 days. Among all three sessions, there was good to excellent agreement in characteristic path length and global efficiency (ICC: .79, .79) and good agreement in the transitivity, local efficiency, and clustering coefficient (ICC = .72, .69, .62).

CONCLUSIONS

There was high consistency of graph theory metrics of rsfMRI connectivity networks among healthy volunteers scanned on three different generation 3T MRI scanners.
Implementation of a paediatric peripheral intravenous catheter care bundle: A quality improvement initiative
Authors: Kleidon Tricia M , Cattanach Paula , Mihala Gabor , Ullman Amanda J
Published: January 2019

Aim

To improve paediatric peripheral intravenous catheter (PIVC) care through the implementation of care bundles.

Methods

A pre–post study using mixed methods (clinical audit, staff survey, parent interviews) in 2016 at a tertiary paediatric hospital in Brisbane was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of a PIVC insertion and maintenance bundle to improve PIVC insertion, promote function and support practice. Participants included children with PIVC, parents and staff inserting and managing PIVCs. A mnemonic care bundle, SUCCESS PIVCS (At insertion: Skills, Understand and prepare, Consent, Clean site, Escalate, Secure, Sign and document. During management: Prompt removal, Inspect hourly, Vein patency, Clean hands and Scrub the hub), was developed and implemented via visual aids, workshops and change champions. During audit, PIVC first‐attempt insertion success, PIVC failure, PIVC dwell, escalation to senior clinicians and insertion and management procedures were measured.

Results

Pre‐implementation audit (n = 102) and survey (n = 117) data described high rates of PIVC failure (n = 50; 49%), difficulty obtaining equipment (n = 64; 55%) and pressure to insert (n = 50; 43%). Parent interviews (n = 15) identified lack of communication, fear, appreciation of skilled technicians and technology and care giver roles as key to improving the experience. After implementation first‐attempt insertion success (45 vs. 62%; risk ratio 1.37, 95% confidence interval 1.05–1.78), first‐attempt escalation to senior clinicians (junior doctor 72 vs. 41%; P = <0.001) and median PIVC dwell (40 vs. 52 h; P = 0.021) improved.

Conclusion

This multi‐level care bundle demonstrated improvements in the insertion and management of PIVCs; however, PIVC failure remained high.
New investigations on the microconidiogenesis of Botrytis cinerea Pers.
Authors: URBASCH I.
Published: January 2019

One of the numerous asexuell fructifications of Botrytis cinerea Pers. are the microconidia (Myrioconium H. Sydow), which can be produced in the natural habitat as well as in artificial culture. Besides of the hitherto known possibilities of microconidiogenesis a new herewith first described mode of formation of this spore form was represented: an exogenous microconidial production on hyphal loops. Initiation of loops could be stimulated by various volatile substances, especially hexanal.
The effect of Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate on small intestinal morphology, antioxidant capacity and anti‐inflammatory effect in heat‐stressed broilers
Authors: Song Jiao , Lei Xin , Luo Jingxian , Everaert Nadia , Zhao Guiping , Wen Jie , Yang Ye
Published: January 2019

This study was to investigate the effects of Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG) on intestinal morphology, antioxidant capacity and anti‐inflammatory response in heat‐stressed broiler. A total of 192 2‐week‐old Arbour Acres broilers chickens were divided into four groups with six replicates per group and eight chickens per replicate: one thermoneutral control group (28°C, group TN), which was fed the basal diet; and three cyclic high‐temperature groups (35°C from 7:00 to 19:00 hr; 28°C from 19:00 hr to 7:00 hr, heat stress group), which were fed the basal diet supplementation with EGCG 0 mg/kg (group HS0), 300 mg/kg (group HS300) and 600 mg/kg (group HS600). The gut morphology and intestinal mucosal oxidative stress indicators, as well as intestinal barrier‐related gene expression, were analysed. The results showed that compared with group TN, heat stress reduced the villus height (VH), activities of glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px), superoxide dismutase (SOD)and catalase (CAT), increased the crypt depth (CD) and malondialdehyde (MDA)content at 21, 28 and 35 days (p < 0.05). After the heat‐stressed broilers were supplemented with EGCG, VH, VH/CD (V/C), and the activities of GSH‐Px, SOD and CAT were increased, and CD and MDA content were reduced compared with those in group HS0 without EGCG supplementation at 21, 28 and 35 days (p < 0.05). The EGCG supplementation promoted the gene expression of nuclear factor‐erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2), Claudin‐1, Mucin 2 (Muc2) and alleviated the nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) and lipopolysaccharide‐induced tumour necrosis factor (LITAF) gene expression compared with group HS0 (p < 0.05). Moreover, intestinal morphology was strongly correlated with antioxidant ability and inflammatory response. In conclusion, EGCG alleviated the gut oxidative injury of heat‐stressed broilers by enhancing antioxidant capacity and inhibiting inflammatory response.
Differences in Receipt of Alcohol‐Related Care Across Rurality Among VA Patients Living With HIV With Unhealthy Alcohol Use
Authors: Bensley Kara M. , Fortney John , Chan Gary , Dombrowski Julia C. , Ornelas India , Rubinsky Anna D. , Lapham Gwen T. , Glass Joseph E. , Williams Emily C.
Published: January 2019

Purpose

It is unknown whether receipt of evidence‐based alcohol‐related care varies by rurality among people living with HIV (PLWH) with unhealthy alcohol use—a population for whom such care is particularly important.

Methods

All positive screens for unhealthy alcohol use (AUDIT‐C ≥ 5) among PLWH were identified using Veterans Health Administration electronic health record data (10/1/09–5/30/13). Three domains of alcohol‐related care were assessed: brief intervention (BI) within 14 days, and specialty addictions treatment or alcohol use disorder (AUD) medications (filled prescription for naltrexone, disulfiram, acamprosate, or topiramate) within 1 year of positive screen. Adjusted Poisson models and recycled predictions were used to estimate predicted prevalence of outcomes across rurality (urban, large rural, small rural), clustered on facility. Secondary analyses assessed outcomes in the subsample with documented AUD.

Findings

4,581 positive screens representing 3,458 PLWH (3,112 urban, 130 large rural, and 216 small rural) were included; 49.1% had diagnosed AUD. PLWH in large rural areas had highest receipt of BI (urban 56.6%, 95% CI: 55.0‐58.2; large rural 66.0%, CI: 58.6‐73.5; small rural 60.7%, CI: 54.6‐67.0). PLWH in urban areas had highest receipt of specialty addictions treatment (urban 28.2%, CI: 26.7‐29.8; large rural 19.7%, CI: 13.1‐26.2; small rural 19.6%, CI: 14.1‐25.0). There was no difference in receipt of AUD medications, although overall receipt was low (3%‐4%). Results were similar in the subsample with AUD.

Conclusion

Among PLWH with unhealthy alcohol use, those in rural areas may be vulnerable to under‐receipt of specialty addictions treatment. Targeted interventions may help ensure PLWH receive recommended care regardless of rurality.
HPV Vaccination Coverage Among US Teens Across the Rural‐Urban Continuum
Authors: Swiecki‐Sikora Allison L. , Henry Kevin A. , Kepka Deanna
Published: January 2019

Background

In this study, we used data from the National Immunization Survey‐Teen (NIS‐Teen) to examine HPV vaccination uptake by rural and urban residence defined by ZIP code.

Methods

We used 2012‐2013 NIS‐Teen data to examine associations of HPV vaccination among teens aged 13‐17 years with ZIP code measures of rural/urban (Rural‐Urban Commuting Area (RUCA) codes, population density). Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate the odds of HPV vaccination initiation (≥ 1 dose) and completion (≥ 3 doses).

Results

HPV vaccination was lower among girls from isolated small rural towns (≥1 dose 51.0%; ≥3 doses 30.0%) and small rural towns (≥1 dose 50.2%; ≥3 doses 26.8%) than among urban girls (≥1 dose 56.0%; ≥3 doses 35.9%). Girls from small rural towns had lower odds of completion (0.74, 95% CI: 0.60‐0.91) than girls from urban areas. HPV vaccination was lower among boys from isolated small rural towns (≥1 dose 17.3%; ≥3 doses 5.31%) and small rural towns (≥1 dose 18.7%; ≥3 doses 5.50%) than those in urban areas (≥1 dose 28.7%; ≥3 doses 10.7%). Boys in isolated small rural towns had statistically significantly lower odds of initiation (0.68, 95% CI: 0.52‐0.88) and completion (0.63, 95% CI: 0.41‐0.97) than urban boys. Girls and boys from high‐poverty rural areas had lower odds of initiation and completion than did their counterparts from high‐poverty urban areas.

Conclusion

Rural girls had lower odds of completing the HPV vaccine than their urban counterparts. Rural boys had lower odds than urban boys for HPV vaccination initiation and completion.
Immunological biomarkers as indicators for outcome after discontinuation of nucleos(t)ide analogue therapy in patients with HBeAg‐negative chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Kranidioti Hariklia , Manolakopoulos Spilios , Kontos George , Breen Michael S. , Kourikou Anastasia , Deutsch Melanie , Quesada‐Del‐Bosque Maria Ester , Martinez‐Nunez Rocio T. , Naiyer Mohammed M. , Woelk Christopher H. , Sanchez‐Elsner Tilman , Hadziyannis Emilia , Papatheodoridis George , Khakoo Salim I.
Published: January 2019

The optimal duration of treatment with nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs) for patients with HBeAg‐negative chronic hepatitis B (CHB) is unknown. The aim of this study was to identify an immune signature associated with off‐treatment remission to NA therapy. We performed microarray analysis of peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMCs) from six patients with chronic hepatitis B who stopped NA therapy (three with off‐treatment remission, three with relapse) and five patients with chronic HBV infection (previously termed ‘inactive carriers’) served as controls. Results were validated using qRT‐PCR on a second group of 21 individuals (17 patients who stopped treatment and four controls). PBMCs from 38 patients on long‐term NA treatment were analysed for potential to stop treatment. Microarray analysis indicated that patients with off‐treatment remission segregated as a distinct out‐group. Twenty‐one genes were selected for subsequent validation. Ten of these were expressed at significantly lower levels in the patients with off‐treatment remission compared to the patients with relapse and predicted remission with AUC of 0.78‐0.92. IFNγ, IL‐8, FASLG and CCL4 were the most significant by logistic regression. Twelve (31.6%) of 38 patients on long‐term NA therapy had expression levels of all these four genes below cut‐off values and hence were candidates for stopping treatment. Our data suggest that patients with HBeAg‐negative CHB who remain in off‐treatment remission 3 years after NA cessation have a distinct immune signature and that PBMC RNA levels of IFNγ, IL‐8, FASLG and CCL4 may serve as potential biomarkers for stopping NA therapy.
Testing for hepatitis C virus infection in UK prisons: What actually happens?
Authors: Jack Kathryn , Thomson Brian J. , Irving William L.
Published: January 2019

Prisons are a key demographic in the drive to eradicate hepatitis C virus (HCV) as a major public health threat. We have assessed the impact of the recently introduced national opt‐out policy on the current status of HCV testing in 14 prisons in the East Midlands (UK). We analysed testing rates pre‐ and post‐introduction of opt‐out testing, together with face‐to‐face interviews with prison healthcare and management staff in each prison. In the year pre‐opt‐out, 1972 people in prison (PIP) were tested, compared to 3440 in the year following opt‐out. From July 2016 to June 2017, 2706 people were tested, representing 13.5% of all prison entrants (median 16.6%, range 7.6%‐40.7%). Factors correlating with testing rates were as follows: pre‐admission location of the PIP (another prison or the community, OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.9‐2.3, P < 0.001); whether the PIP could access health care independently of prison officers (OR 1.7, 95% CI 1.5‐1.8, P < 0.001); the absence of out‐reach services for HCV treatment (OR 1.3, 95% CI 1.2‐1.5, P < 0.001), whether >50% of PIP reported ease of access to a nurse (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.8‐2.2, P < 0.001), and whether prison health care was supplied by private or NHS providers (OR 1.3, 95% CI 1.2‐1.5, P < 0.001). Testing rates remained far below the minimum national opt‐out target of 50%. Inadequacy of healthcare facilities and constraints imposed by adherence to prison regimens were cited by healthcare and management staff at all prisons. Without radical change, the prison estate may be intrinsically incapable of supporting NHSE to deliver the HCV elimination strategy.
Patterns of long‐term vegetation change vary between different types of semi‐natural grasslands in Western and Central Europe
Authors: Diekmann Martin , Andres Christian , Becker Thomas , Bennie Jonathan , Blüml Volker , Bullock James M. , Culmsee Heike , Fanigliulo Miriam , Hahn Annett , Heinken Thilo , Leuschner Christoph , Luka Stefanie , Meißner Justus , Müller Josef , Newton Adrian , Peppler‐Lisbach Cord , Rosenthal Gert , van den Berg Leon J. L. , Vergeer Philippine , Wesche Karsten
Published: January 2019

Questions

Has plant species richness in semi‐natural grasslands changed over recent decades? Do the temporal trends of habitat specialists differ from those of habitat generalists? Has there been a homogenization of the grassland vegetation?

Location

Different regions in Germany and the UK.

Methods

We conducted a formal meta‐analysis of re‐survey vegetation studies of semi‐natural grasslands. In total, 23 data sets were compiled, spanning up to 75 years between the surveys, including 13 data sets from wet grasslands, six from dry grasslands and four from other grassland types. Edaphic conditions were assessed using mean Ellenberg indicator values for soil moisture, nitrogen and pH. Changes in species richness and environmental variables were evaluated using response ratios.

Results

In most wet grasslands, total species richness declined over time, while habitat specialists almost completely vanished. The number of species losses increased with increasing time between the surveys and were associated with a strong decrease in soil moisture and higher soil nutrient contents. Wet grasslands in nature reserves showed no such changes or even opposite trends. In dry grasslands and other grassland types, total species richness did not consistently change, but the number or proportions of habitat specialists declined. There were also considerable changes in species composition, especially in wet grasslands that often have been converted into intensively managed, highly productive meadows or pastures. We did not find a general homogenization of the vegetation in any of the grassland types.

Conclusions

The results document the widespread deterioration of semi‐natural grasslands, especially of those types that can easily be transformed to high production grasslands. The main causes for the loss of grassland specialists are changed management in combination with increased fertilization and nitrogen deposition. Dry grasslands are most resistant to change, but also show a long‐term trend towards an increase in more mesotrophic species.
Matrix metalloproteinase‐9 mediated shedding of syndecan‐4 in glomerular endothelial cells
Authors: Reine Trine M. , Lanzalaco Francesca , Kristiansen Oddrun , Enget Anne Randi , Satchell Simon , Jenssen Trond G. , Kolset Svein O.
Published: January 2019

Background

Diabetic nephropathy is the most common cause of end‐stage renal failure in the western world and Asia. The mechanisms are not fully elucidated, but disruption of glomerular endothelial glycocalyx and shedding of its components including syndecans has been implicated.

Aims

We hypothesize that reduced glomerular filtration in diabetes is caused by disruption of endothelial glycocalyx in glomeruli, including increased shedding of syndecan‐4. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of experimental diabetic conditions by means of hyperglycemia and IL‐1β exposure on syndecan‐4 shedding in GEnC, and to investigate regulation of shedding by sheddases.

Results

We found that in GEnC the expression of syndecan‐4 is higher than that of the other syndecans. In polarized GEnC, apical shedding of syndecan‐4 and syndecan‐4 gene expression was increased by 60% after IL‐1β‐stimulation, but not affected by hyperglycemic conditions. This was accompanied by a 50% increase in MMP9 gene expression in IL‐1β‐stimulated cells but not hyperglycemia. MMP9 knockdown reduced syndecan‐4 shedding by 50%.

Conclusion

IL‐1β but not hyperglycemia increases the shedding of syndecan‐4 from GEnC in an MMP9‐dependent manner. This provides a potential mechanism of GEnC damage in diabetes and other inflammatory conditions.
Guidance for assessment of erythroderma in neonates and infants for the pediatric immunologist
Authors: Ott Hagen
Published: January 2019

Neonatal and infantile erythroderma (NIE) represents the common clinical phenotype of heterogeneous diseases ranging from benign and transient skin conditions to fatal multiorgan disorders. NIE regularly demands a comprehensive diagnostic workup in a multiprofessional setting, especially if newborns and young infants with the disease develop a failure to thrive and concomitant infectious, neurologic, or metabolic complications. By obtaining a detailed medical history and performing a thorough clinical examination, targeted diagnostic steps can be scheduled for most affected children. If NIE occurs in the early neonatal period, lesional skin biopsy and histology are often indicated. Likewise, if monogenic skin or immunologic diseases are suspected, genetic testing with customized panels of potentially underlying genes is mandatory. Of note, if acute symptoms such as severe infections, metabolic acidosis, or seizures occur, rapid microbiologic and metabolic investigations are warranted to rule out immunodeficiency and inborn errors of metabolism.