bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and Correlates of Self-Rated Successful Aging Among Older Women Living With HIV
Authors: Rubtsova Anna A. , Wingood Gina M. , Ofotokun Ighovwerha , Gustafson Deborah , Vance David E. , Sharma Anjali , Adimora Adaora A. , Holstad Marcia
Published: October 2019

Background:

Despite marked gains in longevity attributable to antiretroviral therapy (ART), older women living with HIV (OWLH) experience substantial health challenges, and few studies addressed whether they can achieve successful aging (SA). This is among the first studies examining prevalence and psychosocial correlates of self-rated SA (SRSA) among OWLH and women at risk of HIV.

Methods:

The sample included 386 OWLH and 137 HIV-seronegative women enrolled in the Women's Interagency HIV Study (WIHS) who were aged 50 years and older and participated in the “From Surviving to Thriving” (FROST) substudy. The FROST survey included measures of SRSA and positive psychosocial constructs.

Results:

Participants were on average 57 years (SD = 5.3), 74% African American and 30% unemployed. Among OWLH, 94% were on ART and 73% were virally suppressed. Compared with OWLH, a higher proportion of HIV-seronegative women had an annual income ≤ $6000, no health insurance, and reported lower optimism and health-related quality of life. We found no differences in SRSA prevalence by HIV status: 84% of OWLH and 83% of HIV-seronegative women reported SRSA ≥7 (range = 2–10, higher scores signify better SRSA). Having SRSA ≥7 was associated with higher levels of positive psychosocial characteristics (eg, resilience and optimism) among both OWLH and HIV-seronegative women.

Conclusions:

SRSA is achievable among older women with and at risk of HIV despite health complications. Among disadvantaged women, factors other than HIV may be primary drivers of SRSA. Future research is needed to examine determinants of SRSA and to design public health interventions enhancing SA within this population.
Changes in freshwater macroinvertebrate richness due to river impoundment in the United States
Authors: Trottier Gabrielle , Turgeon Katrine , Verones Francesca , Boisclair Daniel , Bulle Cécile , Margni Manuele
Published: October 2019

Whether it is for water supply, flood control or hydropower uses, the transformation of a river into a reservoir can impact freshwater ecosystems and their biodiversity. Using the National Lake Assessment (NLA; 148 reservoirs) and the National Rivers and Streams Assessment (NRSA; 2121 rivers and streams) of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), we evaluated the impacts of river impoundment on macroinvertebrate biodiversity at three spatial scales (i.e., reservoir, ecoregion and country scale). We used a space-for-time substitution approach to model the impact of impoundment (i.e., we used rivers and streams as the before-impoundment conditions, and reservoirs as the after-impoundment conditions). We expressed the impact on biodiversity in terms of potentially disappeared fraction of species (PDF) to be used in the life cycle assessment (LCA) framework. To understand the role of regionalization, and some potentially influential variables, on changes in macroinvertebrate richness following impoundment in the United States, we used analyses of variance (ANOVAs) as well as variation partitioning, and developed empirical predictive models. Overall, 26% of macroinvertebrate taxa disappeared following impoundment in the United States, and PDFs followed a longitudinal gradient across ecoregions (i.e., higher PDFs in the western part of the country, lower PDFs in the eastern part). We also observed that large and oligotrophic reservoirs, located in high elevation had high PDFs. This study provides the first empirical PDF values for macroinvertebrates to be used as characterization factors (CFs) by LCA practitioners. We also provide strong support for regionalization and a simple predictive model to be used by LCA modellers.
Reorganization of the Primate Dorsal Horn in Response to a Deafferentation Lesion Affecting Hand Function
Authors: Fisher Karen M. , Garner Joseph , Darian-Smith Corinna
Published: October 2019

The loss of sensory input following a spinal deafferentation injury can be debilitating, and this is especially true in primates when the hand is involved. While significant recovery of function occurs, little is currently understood about the reorganization of the neuronal circuitry, particularly within the dorsal horn. This region receives primary afferent input from the periphery, and cortical input via the somatosensory subcomponent of the corticospinal tract (S1 CST), and is critically important in modulating sensory transmission, both in normal and lesioned states. To determine how dorsal horn circuitry alters to facilitate recovery post-injury, we used an established deafferentation lesion model (DRL/DCL – dorsal root/dorsal column) in male monkeys to remove sensory input from just the opposing digits (D1-D3) of one hand. This results in a deficit in fine dexterity that recovers over several months. Electrophysiological mapping, tract tracing, and immunolabeling techniques were combined to delineate specific changes to dorsal horn input circuitry. Our main findings show that (1) there is complementary sprouting of the primary afferent and S1 CST populations into an overlapping region of the reorganizing dorsal horn, (2) S1 CST and primary afferent inputs connect in different ways within this region to facilitate sensory integration (3) there is a loss of larger S1 CST terminal boutons in the affected dorsal horn, but no change in the size profile of the spared/sprouted primary afferent terminal boutons post-lesion. Understanding such changes helps to inform new and targeted therapies that best promote recovery.

Significance statement

Spinal injuries that remove sensation from the hand, can be debilitating, though functional recovery does occur. We examined changes to the neuronal circuitry of the dorsal horn in monkeys following a lesion that deafferented three digits of one hand. Little is understood about dorsal horn circuitry, despite the fact that this region loses most of its normal input after such an injury, and is clearly a major focus of reorganization. We found that both the spared primary afferents and somatosensory corticospinal efferents sprouted in an overlapping region of the dorsal horn after injury, and that larger (presumably faster) corticospinal terminals are lost, suggesting a significantly altered cortical modulation of primary afferents. Understanding this changing circuitry is important for designing targeted therapies.
Northstar enables automatic classification of known and novel cell types from tumor samples
Authors: Zanini Fabio , Berghuis Bojk A. , Jones Robert C. , Nicolis di Robilant Benedetta , Nong Rachel Yuan , Norton Jeffrey , Clarke Michael F. , Quake Stephen R.
Published: October 2019

Single cell transcriptomics is revolutionising our understanding of tissue and disease heterogeneity, yet cell type identificationl remains a partially manual task. Published algorithms for automatic cell annotation are limited to known cell types and fail to capture novel populations, especially cancer cells. We developed northstar, a computational approach to classify thousands of cells based on published data within seconds while simultaneously identifying and highlighting new cell states such as malignancies. We tested northstar on human glioblastoma and melanoma and obtained high accuracy and robustness. We collected eleven pancreatic tumors and identified three shared and five private neoplastic cell populations, offering insight into the origins of neuroendocrine and exocrine tumors. northstar is a useful tool to assign known and novel cell type and states in the age of cell atlases.
Interleukin-2 druggability is modulated by global conformational transitions controlled by a helical capping switch
Authors: De Paula Viviane S. , Jude Kevin M. , Nerli Santrupti , Glassman Caleb R. , Garcia K. Christopher , Sgourakis Nikolaos G.
Published: October 2019

Interleukin-2 (IL-2) is a small α-helical cytokine that regulates immune cell homeostasis through its recruitment to a high-affinity heterotrimeric receptor complex (IL-2Rα/IL-2Rβ/γc). IL-2 has been shown to have therapeutic efficacy for immune diseases by preferentially expanding distinct T-cell compartments, and several Treg-biasing anti-IL-2 antibodies have been developed for combination therapies. The conformational plasticity of IL-2 plays an important role in its biological actions by modulating the strength of receptor and drug interactions. Through a NMR analysis of milliseconds-timescale dynamics of free mIL-2 we identify a global transition to an auto-inhibitory conformation controlled by an α-helical capping “switch”. Binding to either an anti-mouse IL-2 mAb or a small molecule inhibitor near the AB loop induces changes in dynamics at the core of the structure, and perturbations of the capping hydrogen-bond network abrogate Ab binding by destabilizing the auto-inhibitory conformation. Our results highlight a paradigm for designing precision therapeutics targeting a continuum of IL-2 conformational states.
Employee-workplace alignment
Authors: Roskams Michael , Haynes Barry
Published: October 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to identify the employee characteristics which are most strongly associated with perceived requirements for different aspects of the workplace environment.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire was completed by 364 employees from a large private-sector organisation. Respondents were surveyed on different work-related, personality and demographic characteristics. They then completed a series of items measuring perceived requirements for four aspects of the workplace environment (workspace segregation, workspace territoriality, individual environmental control and aesthetic quality). Associations between employee characteristics and perceived workplace requirements were explored using multiple regression analyses.

Findings

Numerous significant associations emerged. For example, the requirement for more segregated workspaces was associated with higher susceptibility to distraction, and the requirement for higher workspace territoriality was associated with less positive perceptions regarding the impact of flexible working on work effectiveness.

Originality/value

The individual difference factors which moderate satisfaction with the workplace environment have received relatively little attention in past research. The present study addresses this knowledge gap by including a wider range of employee characteristics and comprehensively investigating which of these most strongly predict differences in perceived requirements for the workplace.
Toward a theory on workplaces for smart workers
Authors: Errichiello Luisa , Pianese Tommasina
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the main features of smart work centers (SWCs) and show how these innovative offices would support the implementation of smart working and related changes in workspaces (“bricks”), technologies (“bytes”) and organizational practices (“behaviors”).

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, scientific literature is combined with white papers and business reports and visits to 14 workplaces, including offices designed as SWCs, co-working spaces, one telecenter, one accelerator and one fab lab. Primary data were collected through interviews with managers and users and non-participant observation, whereas secondary data included web-sites, brochures, presentations, press releases and official documents.

Findings

The authors developed research propositions about how the design of spaces and the availability of technology within SWCs would support the “bricks” and “bytes” levers of smart working. More importantly, the authors assumed that this new type of workplace would sustain changes in employees’ behaviors and managers’ practices, thus helping to overcome several challenges traditionally associated with remote working.

Research limitations/implications

The exploratory nature of the research only provides preliminary information about the role of SWCs within smart working programs. Additional qualitative and quantitative empirical investigation is required.

Practical implications

This study provides valuable knowledge about how the design of corporate offices can be leveraged to sustain the implementation of smart working.

Originality/value

This study advances knowledge on workplaces by focusing on an innovative design of traditional offices (SWC). It also lays the foundations for future investigation aimed at testing the developed propositions.
Fabrication and analysis of AA6082/Si3N4 and AA6082/SiC composites
Authors: Bhushan Rajesh Kumar , Sharma Deepak
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Sound microstructure components are necessary for reliability and safety; hence, these components are used in aircraft, satellite, automobiles and ships, where many commercial alloys are not suitable. The paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

AA6082/Si3N4 and AA6082/SiC composites were fabricated using the stir-casting process considering 5, 10 and 15 vol.% of reinforcement particles. Density and porosity of AA6082/Si3N4 and AA6082/SiC composites were calculated. Characterization was done using an X-ray (EDX) detector, attached to SEM. The effect of addition of Si3N4 and SiC particulates in the AA6082 was investigated.

Findings

Results showed that Si3N4 and SiC particulates had good wettability with AA6082 and were uniformly distributed in AA6082 matrix. No adverse effects of reactions were noticed in the microstructure of AA6082/Si3N4 and AA6082/SiC composites.

Research limitations/implications

AA6082 with more than 15 vol.% of Si3N4 and AA6082/SiC reinforcement particles do not find industrial application where high hardness and tensile strength are required.

Practical implications

Components made from AA6082/Si3N4 and AA6082/SiC composites find their application where high hardness with better tensile strength is required.

Social implications

Naturally and locally available materials are utilized for fabrication.

Originality/value

Little work is available in the literature on fabrication and characterization of AA6082/Si3N4 and AA6082/SiC composites. The authors have identified the process parameters at which proper fabrication is done and sound microstructure is obtained.
News you can use! Evaluating the effectiveness of newsjacking based content on social media
Authors: Angell Rob , Gorton Matthew , Bottomley Paul , Marder Ben , Bhaskar Shikhar , White John
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Newsjacking (real-time deployment of news stories in communications) is now ubiquitous for brands using social media. Despite its pervasiveness, little analysis of its effectiveness exists. The purpose of this paper is to test if newsjacking positively influences various consumer responses (attitude toward content, brand attitude and purchase intent). Taking an audience perspective supported by the elaboration likelihood model, the research also establishes if a higher level of news involvement, as well as an ability to recognize the story behind the content, enhances the effectiveness of newsjacking content.

Design/methodology/approach

An experimental design using taglines (newsjacking vs non-topical content) from a real BMW campaign was tested on a sample of 252 consumers. Three research questions pertaining to the effectiveness of newsjacking were specified and analyzed within a structural equation modeling framework.

Findings

The findings support the conclusion that newsjacking is an effective communication tool. More favorable consumer responses were elicited in the newsjacking condition, as compared to content deploying a non-topical tagline. In addition, recipients reporting a higher level of news involvement rated the content more favorably in the newsjacking (vs the non-topical) condition. Deploying news stories that are more recognizable increases the chances of successful newsjacking. Messages received by those with higher product involvement (category level: cars) were more effective regardless of the type of the appeal.

Originality/value

The authors contribute to the communications and social media literatures by investigating the effectiveness of an emerging but popular tactic leveraged by content creators. The work builds upon the limited research that has tested consumer responses to newsjacking. From a practical perspective, the research provides insight into the type of audience and situations most likely to yield a favorable outcome from newsjacking.
Structural banking reforms and their implications for banks’ corporate governance
Authors: Hellstern Christiane
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine from a comparative perspective, the impact of structural banking reforms on the legal frameworks for the corporate governance of credit institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

This facilitates a functional analysis of the resulting corporate governance structures, which in turn provides the basis for an analysis of conceptual concerns with regard to the independence of the separate entity.

Findings

The paper points out that structural banking reforms come with significant implications for existing corporate governance structures of credit institutions. The resulting corporate governance structures rise conceptual concerns with regard to both the effectiveness of the independence of the separate entity and the objectives of structural banking reforms generally.

Practical implications

The paper shows that the implementation of structural banking reforms is a complex operational issue and process for the banking groups and the regulators. The challenge will be to establish and upheld the ring fence in a way to lower the risk of intra-group contagion. There is a great need for regulatory and supervisory policies that reinforce the settled ring fence obligations.

Originality/value

This paper’s value lies in providing analysis of the implications of structural banking reforms for the corporate governance of credit institutions. The relevant statutory frameworks as such set only the core components of the new structure. Defining and implementing the design is left to the discretion of the regulators.
Exploring the moderating role of core self-evaluation in the relationship between demands and work-family enrichment
Authors: Jain Sarika , Nair Shreekumar K.
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Extant literature reveals that the personality variable, core self-evaluation (CSE) which represents an employee’s self-assessment of himself has rarely been researched with respect to sales employees. The purpose of this paper is to identify the role of personality variable, core self-evaluation (CSE), in the relationship between demands and work – family enrichment. In this study, CSE has been treated as a moderating variable in the relationship between demands and work-family enrichment. This paper also aims to validate the CSE scale developed by Jugdeet al.(2003) in Indian context.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through structured questionnaires from 330 sales employees belonging to firms from some of the major sectors of Indian industry namely, Manufacturing, IT, FMCG, Pharmaceuticals and Financial Services. The study first validated the CSE scale in the Indian context using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Further, moderated regression analysis (MRA) was used to test the model.

Findings

The present research supported the 12-item CSE scale in the Indian context. Also, results of MRA suggested that, irrespective of higher work demands, sales employees having higher CSE experience higher levels of work to family enrichment (WFE). In addition, higher CSE employees tend to experience higher levels of FWE at the family front.

Research limitations/implications

In an emerging economy such as India wherein sales professionals are facing a lot of work demands, organizations should invest in their frontline employees to be able to deliver value for money to the customers and thereby gain competitive advantage. With this realization, managers should acquire and retain frontline employees with positive core self-evaluation. Therefore, organizations should select and try to retain candidates with positive core self-evaluations.

Practical implications

Corporates should focus on nurturing sales employees’ positive CSE to make sure that their employees can contentedly adjust to various challenging work situations. In addition practices like job transitions, empowerment, enrichment and rewarding employees for their desired performance might be some of the interventions which positively impact core self-evaluations.

Originality/value

This study contributes to work – family literature by addressing the role of CSE in achieving WFE and FWE among sales employees in Indian context.
Reassessing Elton Mayo: clarifying contradictions and context
Authors: Muldoon Jeff , Bendickson Joshua , Bauman Antonina , Liguori Eric W.
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Elton Mayo was a professor at a prestigious university, but not a researcher; a scholar, but more concerned with executives; a capitalist, but someone who downplayed monetary incentives; an insider, but someone whose own background was more of an outsider. These contradictions have resulted in scholars questioning Mayo’s impact on the field of management. Thus, this paper aims to critically review Mayo and his contributions to management through a lens calibrated to the context of his time, providing a more contextually accurate view of Mayo and his work and offering a clearer view of his meaningful impact on the field.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a combination of primary and secondary sources, the authors connect otherwise disparate information to critically review Mayo’s work within the context of its era.

Findings

The authors’ critical review of Mayo identified nine topical areas where Mayo and/or his work have been misunderstood or misinterpreted. For each area, the authors offer a more contextualized and appropriate interpretation of Mayo and his viewpoints, and thus more accurately informing the management literature.

Originality/value

This paper is the first to thoroughly revisit Mayo and his work through a contextualized lens, offering a more informed view of why Mayo’s seemingly controversial behaviors were actually quite standard behaviors given his context.
Friend or foe? Chat as a double-edged sword to assist customers
Authors: Sangle-Ferriere Marion , Voyer Benjamin G.
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The development of self-service technologies, while intended to better serve customers by offering them autonomy, has created situations in which individuals may require additional help. The purpose of this paper is to explore perceptions of chat as an assistance channel, to identify its perceived role in a customer service environment.

Design/methodology/approach

In all, 23 semi-structured interviews held with both chat and non-chat users assessed perceptions of chat in an assistance encounter. A thematic analysis was used.

Findings

The findings highlight a paradoxical perception of chat in a customer assistance context. On the one hand, customers perceive live chat as mainly beneficial in a customer service context, alleviating embarrassment, perceived threats and potential dissatisfaction linked to assistance requests. On the other hand, the elusive nature of a chat conversation interlocutor (human or artificial) adversely affects how customers interpret assistance from companies.

Research limitations/implications

This research underscores the perceived threats of assistance encounters and shows the ambivalent role of chat in such a context. It also highlights chat’s specific features that make it a relevant medium for assistance requests.

Practical implications

This study helps companies better understand customers’ perceptions of assistance requests and chat in that context. Companies can use the findings to develop better ways to address assistance needs and offer transparent and fully personalized human chat to provide an inclusive service.

Originality/value

This paper highlights the ambivalent role of chat as an assistance channel, easing assistance requests but also entailing a potential negative spillover effect, when negative chat perceptions of an artificial interlocutor have consequences.
Quality of code of ethics: an empirical analysis on the stakeholder employee
Authors: Mazza Tatiana , Furlotti Katia
Published: October 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to analyse the quality of Code of Ethics from the point of view of employees. In particular, the research aims to investigate which are the companies’ characteristics that influence the publication of a Code of Ethics and the Code of Ethics Quality from the employee perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use Italian listed companies and perform a manual content analysis on their Code of Ethics based on keywords related to the stakeholder employees. The authors perform regression models to investigate the determinants, using financial reporting data and companies’ information (i.e. industry).

Findings

The findings show that Code of Ethics are developed among large firms. A healthy and safe environment and a clear leadership are developed by firms with high grow rates. Equal employment opportunities and competent leadership are developed by firms with low financial distress. The need of effective communication for consensus seems more visible in Public Administration. Private sectors pay more attention to competent leadership, while firms in Trade take care on equal opportunities for employees.

Originality/value

At present, much of the codes of ethics’ research are focussed on the content and the effectiveness of codes of ethics, on the reasons, on the benefits and limitations of this tool, but few studies investigate the quality of codes of ethics and, even fewer the specific stakeholder employees. This study aims to improve the debate related to the elements affecting quality in codes of ethics, with particular attention to the rules that guide the relationship between companies and their employees.
Examining prisoner experience of an equine assisted psychotherapy
Authors: Robinson-Edwards Shona , Kewley Stephanie , Riley Laura , Fisher Dawn
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine prisoner experience of an equine assisted psychotherapy (EAP). This paper explores the use of therapeutic interventions; specifically focussing on EAP, within this paper EAP constitutes the use of horses in therapy and involves a team approach from equine and mental health experts.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper took a qualitative approach; due to the exploratory nature of this study a phenomenological approach was adopted. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was deemed appropriate; the intervention took place in an adult, male, open condition prison in England (Category D) however participants who engaged in the equine intervention were from both the open prison and a nearby closed Category C prison. The equine intervention was delivered by qualified therapists who worked to help improve emotional regulation among participants with a history of drug and alcohol abuse.

Findings

The findings within this paper identify a strong correlation between EAP and positive experiences expressed by participants. Alternative approaches such as animal assisted therapies are worthy of consideration when attempting to support the rehabilitation and treatment needs of incarcerated clients. Participants achieved a number of goals and their confidence improved as they felt a sense of achievement.

Research limitations/implications

This paper demonstrates the complexities of therapeutic interventions. Research relating to EAP in the UK is few and far between, consequently understanding is limited. This paper seeks to offer an insight into this topic and build upon this research in the future.

Practical implications

Access to prison for research purposes is challenging. Due to the nature of this study and the resources required sometimes EAP therapy cannot be implemented in or near many prisons in England and Wales. Therefore gaining access to this prison and exploring the data is the first phase of further research in this area.

Social implications

Researching the way individuals experience therapeutic interventions is a “growing phenomenon”. This paper aimed to explore EAP interventions, however due to the sample size it was imperative that the role of EAP was not misrepresented. Therefore this papers intention is to raise awareness of EAP interventions and therapeutic interventions in prisons in England and Wales.

Originality/value

To the authors knowledge no previous study has examined such an intervention using this method and as such the findings of this evaluation are important. Moreover this paper enhances and develops our knowledge about how best to support and treat people with histories of substance use and/or mental health problems and anxiety while in prison, and the vital role such therapies may play.
UrsaNav: the power of the bear
Authors: White Susan , Hallows Karen
Published: October 2019

Theoretical basis

Students will need to know basic capital budgeting techniques to value UrsaNav and its divisions. Students must determine which cash flows are relevant and determine an appropriate return on investment. Some of the issues that need to be addressed include: how to handle taxes in a discounted cash flow analysis when valuing an S Corp. where incentives depend on current (known) tax provisions and future (unknown) tax provisions; how to use comparable multiples to develop a cost of capital for a DCF valuation; and how to value a firm using comparable transactions.

Research methodology

Case information was obtained through interviews with the owner, Charles Schue. In addition, the authors researched industry and comparable company data, along with current events relating to government consulting.

Case overview/synopsis

UrsaNav is a US-based, international provider of advanced engineering and information management consulting services in the naval navigation industry. After about a decade of operating and growing, the firm had become successfully diversified; however, it had also grown too large to manage effectively. Thus, the company was spun-off into three separate segments: Tagence, Geodesicx and UrsaNav. These segments went “back to the basics,” and focused more on serving customers, with each having a more defined company focus. Is this a move that creates or destroys value? How could it create value for the firms’ founders?

Complexity academic level

This case is intended for an advanced undergraduate or an MBA corporate finance class or an entrepreneurship elective. Students interested in analyzing whether or not decision makers within a company would want to spin-off divisions, or merge with another company, or divest a company would find this case appealing. Other students who just want to analyze whether the company has grown too much would be good candidates to do this case.
Phase 1 study of crisaborole in Japanese healthy volunteers and patients with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Ono Ryosuke , Yagi Michio , Shoji Akinobu , Fujita Kayo , Yoshida Mizuki , Ports William C. , Purohit Vivek S.
Published: October 2019

Crisaborole ointment, 2%, is a non‐steroidal phosphodiesterase 4 inhibitor for the treatment of mild to moderate atopic dermatitis (AD). This parallel‐cohort, phase 1 study was conducted to investigate skin irritation potential and safety of crisaborole in healthy Japanese adults (cohort 1) and the safety and pharmacokinetic profile of crisaborole and metabolites AN7602 and AN8323 in Japanese adults with mild to moderate AD (cohort 2). In cohort 1, 20 healthy volunteers received single applications of crisaborole and vehicle simultaneously on separate locations under 48‐h occlusion. In cohort 2, 12 patients with mild to moderate AD received crisaborole (n = 10) or vehicle (n = 2) twice daily for 8 days. Skin irritation and safety were assessed in cohort 1. Pharmacokinetics and safety were assessed in cohort 2. Skin irritation index (scale 0–400) was 40.0 for crisaborole and 5.0 for vehicle. No treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAE) were reported in cohort 1. The most common TEAE in the crisaborole group in cohort 2 were application site irritation (n = 7) and application site pain (n = 4). Crisaborole was rapidly absorbed, with limited systemic exposure between days 1 and 8 that was comparable with that seen in US‐based participants in previous trials. Crisaborole had higher skin irritation than vehicle under occlusion in healthy Japanese adults and had an acceptable safety profile in Japanese adults with mild to moderate AD.
Widow’s perception of their marital relationship and its influence on their restoration‐oriented everyday occupations in the first six months after the death of the spouse: A thematic analysis
Authors: Batista Marina Picazzio Perez , Rebelo José Eduardo , de Carvalho Ricardo Tavares , de Almeida Maria Helena Morgani , Lancman Selma
Published: October 2019

Introduction

The death of a spouse greatly affects the survivor’s emotions and may change one’s everyday occupations, especially during recent bereavement. Considering the centrality of everyday occupations to occupational therapy practice, this research aimed to understand women’s restoration‐oriented everyday occupations within the first six months after the death of their spouse.

Methods

This was a qualitative thematic analysis that applied a realistic method and a theoretical approach at the semantic level. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted to understand the everyday occupations of widows after their husbands’ deaths, emphasising those that were restoration‐oriented, according to the dual process model of coping with bereavement framework. The analysis was conducted according to the phases expected to be conducted during a thematic analysis.

Results

Fourteen widows with long‐term marital relationships participated in this research. Their perceptions concerning their relationships with their spouses were an important aspect that influenced their everyday occupations. Women who qualitatively described their marital relationships in terms of attributes grouped by the researcher as lost and lonely also mentioned difficulty managing previously habitual occupations and changes in the meanings assigned to some of those occupations. These women mobilised unique strategies to address suffering and occupational changes during bereavement. Women who qualitatively described their relationships with attributes grouped by the researcher as free at last felt freedom after their husbands’ deaths, which, according to the widows, brought happiness and feelings of peace and enabled them to engage in freely chosen occupations and to broaden their social networks.

Conclusion

Everyday occupations and their meanings can considerably change during widowhood. This study contributes to comprehending the uniqueness of responses to loss.
A single Thaumarchaeon drives nitrification in deep oligotrophic Lake Constance
Authors: Herber Janina , Klotz Franziska , Frommeyer Benjamin , Weis Severin , Straile Dietmar , Kolar Allison , Sikorski Johannes , Egert Markus , Dannenmann Michael , Pester Michael
Published: October 2019

Ammonia released during organic matter mineralization is converted during nitrification to nitrate. We followed spatiotemporal dynamics of the nitrifying microbial community in deep oligotrophic Lake Constance. Depth‐dependent decrease of total ammonium (0.01–0.84 μM) indicated the hypolimnion as the major place of nitrification with 15N‐isotope dilution measurements indicating a threefold daily turnover of hypolimnetic total ammonium. This was mirrored by a strong increase of ammonia‐oxidizing Thaumarchaeota towards the hypolimnion (13%–21% of bacterioplankton) throughout spring to autumn as revealed by amplicon sequencing and quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Ammonia‐oxidizing bacteria were typically two orders of magnitude less abundant and completely ammonia‐oxidizing (comammox) bacteria were not detected. Both, 16S rRNA gene and amoA (encoding ammonia monooxygenase subunit B) analyses identified only one major species‐level operational taxonomic unit (OTU) of Thaumarchaeota (99% of all ammonia oxidizers in the hypolimnion), which was affiliated to Nitrosopumilus spp. The relative abundance distribution of the single Thaumarchaeon strongly correlated to an equally abundant Chloroflexi clade CL500‐11 OTU and a Nitrospira OTU that was one order of magnitude less abundant. The latter dominated among recognized nitrite oxidizers. This extremely low diversity of nitrifiers shows how vulnerable the ecosystem process of nitrification may be in Lake Constance as Central Europe's third largest lake.
The infidelity of place: medical simulation labs and disjunctures in pedagogical places
Authors: Bartram Robin
Published: October 2019

Simulations are increasingly integral to scientific and social knowledge making. While a number of social scientists study simulation, extant literature is yet to fully investigate how simulated settings are different from and similar to other scientific places. I draw on scholarship on the importance of place within knowledge making in order to study two medical simulation labs and ask what role place plays in these simulated settings. I show that effective pedagogical simulations ironically depend upon departures from ‘real’ places of medical and scientific knowledge production. I highlight the importance of divergences in the sequence of events and scripts, in the behaviour of the manikins and actors, and in the materiality and arrangement of the settings. For medical and nursing students, it is the very disjunctures between the simulated environment and the hospital environment – the infidelity of place – that allows learning to happen. Overall, this article offers an exploratory investigation into the mechanisms at work in pedagogical places of medical simulation and qualifies understandings of the relationship between place and knowledge production.
‘Well, I knew this already’ – explaining personal genetic risk information through narrative meaning‐making
Authors: Snell Karoliina , Helén Ilpo
Published: October 2019

This article presents results from a Finnish focus group's study conducted among participants of a project called GeneRISK, in which the participants received a personal risk score for having a cardiovascular event based on genetic analysis, lifestyle and laboratory results. In the discussions, interpretations of the genetic risk score and its meaning were incorporated into personal narratives of health and illness. We argue that instead of serving as an explanation for health and illness, which can help guide people's lives and choices, the genetic risk information became an object of explanation. Therefore, the risk information did not create new conceptions of personal risk, nor did it generate enough power to push people to change their lifestyles. Instead, the risk information was used to strengthen the existing impression of personal risk and the narrative of personal health and illness.
Carbon sequestration via afforestation as a sustainable action to mitigate climate change in Western Iran
Authors: Miripanah Zohreh , Tavakoli Mohsen , Rostaminya Mahmoud , Naderi Mostafa
Published: October 2019

Climate change involves increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration which is driven by anthropogenic emissions. Afforestation, which is the establishment of forests on previously non‐forested lands, could be a suitable climate change mitigation strategy. The aim of this research is to evaluate the carbon sequestration capability of the Eucalyptus and Prosopis species in the Reza‐Abad afforestation park in western Iran. For this aim, three stands of any species were selected. For quantitative assessment, a transect was implemented at the length of 100 m. In trees located of transects, the general characteristics of species were measured. Also, for estimating the amount of litter, a sample plot has been measured at the center of the quadrate. These samples were taken from the afforested area, the control area inside the afforested area and another control area outside. In each stand, species were selected randomly and one‐eighth of the whole stand was taken for calculating the percentage of carbon and aerial biomass. Then the aboveground organs were weighted and after the transfer of different plant organs to the laboratory, the conversion factor of carbon sequestration of the plant organs was determined individually by combustion method. Also, soil samples were also collected from two depths of 0–15 and 15–30 cm in each of the cultivated and control parts. The results showed that there is a significant difference between the species and Prosopis has higher carbon sequestration than Eucalyptus. The carbon sequestration among different organs showed a significant difference, carbon sequestration was 19.24 t/ha for Eucalyptus and 18.43 t/ha for Prosopis. After an economic calculation, it was concluded that afforestation has a positive effect on the reduction of atmospheric carbon dioxide. Hence, these results allow decision makers to change land use from desert area to forest, and planting the Prosopis species is more recommendable than Eucalyptus for afforestation in such areas which are economically profitable.
The Effect of Temperature and Exposure Time on Stability of Cholesterol and Squalene in Latent Fingermarks Deposited on PVDF Membrane
Authors: Kim Youngmin , Choi Won‐sil , Jeon Byoungjun , Choi Tae Hyun
Published: October 2019

Cholesterol and squalene are fatty materials of latent fingermarks that can be utilized for dating methodologies and visualization techniques. Previous studies have suggested these compounds undergo degradation in fingermarks as a function of time (days) and light at ambient temperature. However, studies assessing how their composition changes at low and high temperatures over short periods of time (hours) have not been published previously. Here, we performed quantitative analysis of cholesterol and squalene in natural fingermark residue using PVDF membrane, after exposure to a range of temperatures (−20 to 100°C) for 4 and 8 h. We found that levels of both fatty materials remained constant at −20 to 60°C, but both showed significant reduction at 100°C, over short exposure times. These results indicate that cholesterol and squalene are detectable at −20 to 60°C, whereas at 100°C or higher, both are lost due to rapid thermal degradation.
DNA Recovery From Tape‐Lifting Kits: Methodology and Practice
Authors: Zorbo Sabrina , Jeuniaux Patrick P. J. M. H.
Published: October 2019

In the case of suspicious deaths, the technique of 1:1 taping is often used in Belgium. It consists of affixing a large number of adhesive tapes to the body of the victim. It is conventionally aimed at obtaining microtraces (e.g., fibers, hair) and is usually not used for DNA analysis. However, in some cases, DNA analysis of certain areas of interest identified on the 1:1 taping material can offer a last resort solution. The four‐step method that is described in this article involves the selection of areas of interest on the body (Step 1), the selection of the corresponding tapes (Step 2), the decontamination of the tapes (Step 3), the selection of areas of interest on the tapes, for DNA sampling (Step 4). The method is illustrated by its successful application in four murder cases. In each case, DNA profiles of good quality could be identified, including profiles of persons different from the victim.
The role of anticholinergic medication in the prevention of bradycardia during laparoscopic gynaecological surgery
Authors: Steer Anna E. , Ozcan John , Emeto Theophilus I.
Published: October 2019

Bradycardia and cardiac arrest are recognised complications of laparoscopic gynaecological surgery. Anticholinergic agents are indicated in the treatment of perioperative bradyarrhythmia; however, their role in the prevention of bradycardia as a result of insufflation of the peritoneum is less well defined. This article systematically reviewed the literature with respect to the role of anticholinergic agents in the prevention of clinically significant bradyarrhythmia during laparoscopic gynaecological surgery. Eight studies were included for review following an extensive database search. This review highlights the paucity of evidence supporting the prophylactic use of anticholinergic agents in preventing clinically significant bradycardia in women undergoing laparoscopic gynaecological surgery.
Letter: role of mean platelet volume levels in the prediction of major acute cardiovascular events in patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Liu Ying‐Ying , Zhang Wei‐Yun , Zeng Da‐Xiong
Published: October 2019

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Abeles et al and Mullish et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15192 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15531.
Pharmacokinetics and phenotyping properties of the Basel phenotyping cocktail combination capsule in healthy male adults
Authors: Suenderhauf Claudia , Berger Benjamin , Puchkov Maxim , Schmid Yasmin , Müller Sabine , Huwyler Jörg , Haschke Manuel , Krähenbühl Stephan , Duthaler Urs
Published: October 2019

Aims

We compared the phenotyping metrics of a combination capsule formulation to its individual components of the newly composed Basel phenotyping cocktail. Moreover, we investigated a reduced sampling regimen for clinical applications.

Methods

We performed in vitro experiments and a crossover pharmacokinetic study in twelve healthy male subjects to compare the Basel phenotyping cocktail capsule containing 6 cytochrome P450 (CYP) probe drugs with individual administration of the same drugs. Parent compounds and selected metabolites were determined by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Metabolic ratios (MR) for are under the curve (AUC) and single time point measurements and their correlation were determined.

Results

Experiments with human liver microsomes and primary human hepatocytes in 3D co‐culture confirmed that flurbiprofen is a suitable CYP2C9 substrate. Both cocktail formulations (capsule and individual probe drug administration) were well‐tolerated and yielded reproducible MRs, which were almost identical. Correlations between single time point ratios and the corresponding AUC ratios depended on the sampling time point and the concentration time curve of the probe drugs. The MR of the capsule (Spearman rank correlation coefficient, Rs: 0.77–0.97) as well as the individual components (Rs: 0.69–0.99) correlated best at 6 h post‐treatment considering all 6 CYPs. Moreover, the 2‐h time points of the capsule agreed suitably with the AUC; however, the MR of omeprazole could not be determined for 10 out of 12 subjects.

Conclusion

The capsule is easy to swallow, well tolerated and provides reliable estimates for CYP activity. The optimal sampling point for the capsule formulation is 6 h after intake.