bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
General Health Checks in Adult Primary Care: A Review
Authors: Liss David T. , Uchida Toshiko , Wilkes Cheryl L. , Radakrishnan Ankitha , Linder Jeffrey A.
Published: February 2021

Importance

General health checks—also known as general medical exams, periodic health evaluations, checkups, or wellness visits—to identify and prevent disease are extremely common in adult primary care. Although general health checks are often expected and advocated by patients, clinicians, payers, and health systems, others question their value. The current evidence was updated and recommendations provided for conducting general health checks in adults.

Observations

Randomized trials and observational studies with control groups from prior systematic reviews and an updated literature review through December 2020 were included. Out of 19 included randomized trials (906 to 59,616 participants; follow-up, 1 to 30 years), 5 evaluated a single general health check and 7 evaluated annual health checks. All of 12 included observational studies (240 to 471,415 participants; follow-up, cross-sectional to 5 years) evaluated a single general health check. General health checks were generally not associated with decreased mortality, cardiovascular events, or cardiovascular disease incidence. For example, in the South-East London Screening Study (n=7,229), adults age 40 to 64 who were invited to two health checks over two years experienced no 8-year mortality benefit (6% overall). However, general health checks were associated with increased detection of chronic diseases, such as depression and hypertension; moderate improvements in controlling risk factors such as blood pressure and cholesterol; increased clinical preventive service uptake, such as colorectal and cervical cancer screening; and improvements in patient-reported outcomes, such as quality of life and self-rated health. General health checks were sometimes associated with modest improvements in health behaviors such as physical activity and diet. For example, in the OXCHECK trial (n=4121), fewer intervention participants exercised less than once per month (68% versus 71%). Potential adverse effects in individual studies included an increased risk of stroke and increased mortality attributed to increased completion of advanced directives.

Conclusions and Relevance

General health checks were not associated with reduced mortality or cardiovascular events, but were associated with increased chronic disease recognition and treatment; risk factor control, preventive service uptake, and patient-reported outcomes. Primary care teams may reasonably offer general health checks, especially for groups at high risk of overdue preventive services, uncontrolled risk factors, low self-rated health, or poor connection to primary care.
Mutations in bdcA and valS correlate with quinolone resistance in wastewater Escherichia Coli
Authors: Malekian Negin , Al-Fatlawi Ali , Berendonk Thomas U. , Schroeder Michael
Published: February 2021

Single mutations can confer resistance to antibiotics. Identifying such mutations can help to develop and improve drugs. Here, we systematically screen for candidate quinolone resistance-conferring mutations. We sequenced highly diverse wastewaterE. coliand performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) correlating over 200,000 mutations against quinolone resistance phenotypes. We uncovered 13 statistically significant mutations including one located at the active site of the biofilm dispersal genes bdcA and six silent mutations in the aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase valS. The study also recovered the known mutations in the topoisomerases gyrA and parC.

In summary, we demonstrate that GWAS effectively and comprehensively identifies resistance mutations without a priori knowledge of targets and mode of action. The results suggest that bdcA and valS may be novel resistance genes with biofilm dispersal and translation as novel resistance mechanisms.
Triku: a feature selection method based on nearest neighbors for single-cell data
Authors: Ascensión Alex M. , Ibañez-Solé Olga , Inza Inaki , Izeta Ander , Araúzo-Bravo Marcos J.
Published: February 2021

Feature selection is a relevant step in the analysis of single-cell RNA sequencing datasets. Triku is a feature selection method that favours genes defining the main cell populations. It does so by selecting genes expressed by groups of cells that are close in the nearest neighbor graph. Triku efficiently recovers cell populations present in artificial and biological benchmarking datasets, based on mutual information and silhouette coefficient measurements. Additionally, gene sets selected by triku are more likely to be related to relevant Gene Ontology terms, and contain fewer ribosomal and mitochondrial genes. Triku is available athttps://gitlab.com/alexmascension/triku.
Distinguishing excess mutations and increased cell death based on variant allele frequencies
Authors: Gergely Tibély , Schrempf Dominik , Derényi Imre , Szöllősi Gergely J.
Published: February 2021

Tumors often harbor orders of magnitude more mutations than healthy tissues. The increased number of mutations may be due to an elevated mutation rate or frequent cell death and correspondingly rapid cell turnover, or a combination of the two. It is difficult to disentangle these two mechanisms based on widely available bulk sequencing data, where sequences from individual cells are intermixed and, thus, the cell lineage tree of the tumor cannot be resolved. Here we present a method that can simultaneously estimate the cell turnover rate and the rate of mutations from bulk sequencing data. Our method works by simulating tumor growth and finding the parameters with which the observed data can be reproduced with maximum likelihood. Applying this method to a real tumor sample, we find that both the mutation rate and the frequency of death may be high.

Author Summary

Tumors frequently harbor an elevated number of mutations, compared to healthy tissue. These extra mutations may be generated either by an increased mutation rate or the presence of cell death resulting in increased cellular turnover and additional cell divisions for tumor growth. Separating the effects of these two factors is a nontrivial problem. Here we present a method which can simultaneously estimate cell turnover rate and genomic mutation rate from bulk sequencing data. Our method is based on the estimation of the parameters of a generative model of tumor growth and mutations. Applying our method to a human hepatocellular carcinoma sample reveals an elevated per cell division mutation rate and high cell turnover.
DARPP-32 promotes ERBB3-mediated resistance to molecular targeted therapy in EGFR-mutated lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Alam Sk. Kayum , Zhang Yongchang , Wang Li , Zhu Zhu , Hernandez Christina E. , Zhou Yuling , Yang Nong , Lei Jian , Chen Xiaoyan , Zeng Liang , Klein Mark A. , Hoeppner Luke H.
Published: February 2021

While molecular targeted therapies have improved prognoses of advanced stage lung adenocarcinoma expressing oncogenic driver mutations, acquired therapeutic resistance continues to be a major problem. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) activating mutations are among the most common targetable genetic alterations in lung adenocarcinoma, and EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are recommended first-line therapy for EGFR mutation positive cancer patients. Unfortunately, most patients develop resistance to EGFR TKIs and rapid disease progression occurs. A better mechanistic understanding of therapy refractory cancer progression is necessary to develop new therapeutic approaches to predict and prevent acquired resistance to EGFR TKIs. Here, we identify a new mechanism of ERBB3-mediated resistance to EGFR TKIs in human lung adenocarcinoma. Specifically, we show that dopamine and cyclic AMP-regulated phosphoprotein, Mr 32000 (DARPP-32) physically recruits ERBB3 to EGFR to mediate a switch from EGFR homodimers to EGFR:ERBB3 heterodimers to bypass EGFR TKI-mediated inhibition to potentiate ERBB3-dependent activation of oncogenic AKT and ERK signaling that drives therapy refractory tumor cell survival. In a cohort of paired tumor specimens derived from 30 lung adenocarcinoma patients before and after the development of EGFR TKI refractory disease progression, we reveal that DARPP-32 as well as kinase-activated EGFR and ERBB3 proteins are overexpressed upon acquired EGFR TKI resistance. In vivo studies suggest that ablation of DARPP-32 protein activity sensitizes gefitinib-resistant lung tumor xenografts to EGFR TKI treatment, while DARPP-32 overexpression increases gefitinib-refractory lung cancer progression in gefitinib-sensitive lung tumors orthotopically xenografted into mice. Taken together, our findings introduce a DARPP-32-mediated, ERBB3-dependent mechanism used by lung tumor cells to evade EGFR TKI-induced cell death, potentially paving the way for the development of new therapies to prevent or overcome therapy-refractory lung adenocarcinoma progression.
MSA Transformer
Authors: Rao Roshan , Liu Jason , Verkuil Robert , Meier Joshua , Canny John F. , Abbeel Pieter , Sercu Tom , Rives Alexander
Published: February 2021

Unsupervised protein language models trained across millions of diverse sequences learn structure and function of proteins. Protein language models studied to date have been trained to perform inference from individual sequences. The longstanding approach in computational biology has been to make inferences from a family of evo lutionarily related sequences by fitting a model to each family independently. In this work we combine the two paradigms. We introduce a protein language model which takes as input a set of sequences in the form of a multiple sequence alignment. The model interleaves row and column attention across the input sequences and is trained with a variant of the masked language modeling objective across many protein families. The performance of the model surpasses current state-of-the-art unsupervised structure learning methods by a wide margin, with far greater parameter efficiency than prior state-of-the-art protein language models.
SIPA1L1/SPAR1 is a non-PSD protein involved in GPCR signaling
Authors: Matsuura Ken , Kobayashi Shizuka , Konno Kohtarou , Yamasaki Miwako , Horiuchi Takahiro , Senda Takao , Hayashi Tomoatsu , Satoh Kiyotoshi , Arima-Yoshida Fumiko , Iwasaki Kei , Negishi Lumi , Yasui-Shimizu Naomi , Kohu Kazuyoshi , Kawahara Shigenori , Kirino Yutaka , Nakamura Tsutomu , Watanabe Masahiko , Yamamoto Tadashi , Manabe Toshiya , Akiyama Tetsu
Published: February 2021

SIPA1L1 (also known as SPAR1) has been proposed to regulate synaptic functions that are important in maintaining normal neuronal activities, such as regulating spine growth and synaptic scaling, as a component of the postsynaptic density (PSD)-95/N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDA-R)-complex. However, contrary to this view, our super-resolution and immunoelectron microscopic analyses demonstrate that SIPA1L1 is mainly localized to general submembranous and cytoplasmic regions in neurons, but scarcely to PSD. Our screening for native interactors of SIPA1L1 identified spinophilin and neurabin-1, regulators of G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling, but rejected PSD-95/NMDA-R-complex components. Furthermore,Sipa1l1-/-mice showed normal spine size distribution and NMDA-R-dependent synaptic plasticity. Nevertheless,Sipa1l1-/-mice showed aberrant responses to α2-adrenergic receptor (a spinophilin target) or adenosine A1 receptor (a neurabin-1 target) agonist stimulation and striking behavioral anomalies, such as hyperactivity, enhanced anxiety, learning impairments, social interaction deficits, and enhanced epileptic seizure susceptibility. Our findings revealed unexpected properties of SIPA1L1, suggesting a possible association of SIPA1L1 deficiency with neuropsychiatric disorders related to dysregulated GPCR signaling, such as epilepsy, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, or fragile X syndrome.
Modest changes inSpi1dosage reveal the potential for altered microglial function as seen in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Jones Ruth E. , Andrews Robert , Holmans Peter , Hill Matthew , Taylor Philip R.
Published: February 2021

Genetic association studies have identified multiple variants at theSPI1locus that modify risk and age of onset for Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). Reports linking risk variants to gene expression suggest that variants denoting higherSPI1expression are likely to have an earlier AD onset, and several other AD risk genes contain PU.1 binding sites in the promoter region. Overall, this suggests altered levels ofSPi1may alter microglial phenotype potentially impacting AD. This study determined how the mouse microglial transcriptome was altered following modest changes toSpi1expression in primary microglia. RNA-sequencing was performed on microglia with reduced or increasedSpi1/PU.1 expression to provide an unbiased approach to determine transcriptomic changes affected bySpi1. In summary, a reduction in microglialSpi1resulted in the dysregulation of transcripts encoding proteins involved in DNA replication pathways while an increasedSpi1results in an upregulation of genes associated with immune response pathways. Additionally, a subset of 194Spi1dose-sensitive genes was identified and pathway analysis suggests that several innate immune and interferon response pathways are impacted by the concentration ofSpi1. Together these results suggestSpi1levels can alter the microglial transcriptome and suggests interferon pathways may be altered in individuals with AD relatedSpi1risk SNPs.
Endothelial alpha globin is a nitrite reductase
Authors: Keller T.C. Stevenson , Keller Alexander S. , Brás Broseghini-Filho Gilson , Butcher Joshua T. , Page Henry R. Askew , Islam Aditi , Tan Zhe Yin , DeLalio Leon J. , Lechauve Christophe , Brooks Steven , Sharma Poonam , Hong Kwangseok , Xu Wenhao , Simão Padilha Alessandra , Ruddiman Claire A. , Best Angela K. , Macal Edgar , Kim-Shapiro Daniel B. , Christ George , Yan Zhen , Cortese-Krott Miriam M. , Ricart Karina , Patel Rakesh , Bender Timothy P. , Sonkusare Swapnil K. , Weiss Mitchell J. , Ackerman Hans , Columbus Linda , Isakson Brant E.
Published: February 2021

Small artery vasodilation in response to hypoxia is essential for matching oxygen supply to tissue oxygen demand. One source of hypoxic dilation via nitric oxide (NO) signaling is nitrite reduction by erythrocytic hemoglobin (α2β2). However, the alpha subunit of hemoglobin is also expressed in resistance artery endothelium and localized to myoendothelial junctions, a subcellular domain that contacts underlying vascular smooth muscle cells. We hypothesized that nitrite reduction mediated by endothelial alpha globin may occur at myoendothelial junctions to regulate hypoxic vasodilation. To test this concept, we created two novel mouse strains: one lacking alpha globin specifically in endothelium (ECHba1Δ/Δ) and one where alpha globin is mutated such that its inhibitory association with endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) is prevented (Hba1WT/Δ36-39). In ECHba1Δ/ΔorHba1WT/Δ36-39mice hemoglobin levels, hematocrit and erythrocyte counts were unchanged from littermate controls. Loss of the full alpha globin protein from the endothelium in the EC Hba1Δ/Δmodel was associated with decreased exercise capacity and decreased intracellular nitrite utilization in hypoxic conditions. These effects were not seen inHba1WT/Δ36-39animals. Hypoxia induced vasodilation was decreased by 60% in isolated thoracodorsal arteries from ECHba1Δ/Δ, while infusion of erythrocytes only partially rescued the dilatory response. Lastly, unlike other models where blood pressure is decreased, ECHba1Δ/Δblood pressure was not altered in response to hypoxia. Overall, we conclude that alpha globin in the resistance artery endothelium can act as a nitrite reductase to provide a local vasodilatory response to hypoxia.
Tyrosine 121 moves revealing a druggable pocket that couples catalysis to ATP-binding in serine racemase
Authors: Koulouris Chloe R. , Gardiner Sian E. , Harris Tessa K. , Elvers Karen T. , Roe S. Mark , Gillespie Jason A. , Ward Simon E. , Grubisha Olivera , Nicholls Robert A. , Atack John R. , Bax Benjamin D.
Published: February 2021

Human serine racemase (hSR) catalyses racemisation of L-serine to D-serine, the latter of which is a co-agonist of the NMDA subtype of glutamate receptors that are important in synaptic plasticity, learning and memory. In a ‘closed’ hSR structure containing the allosteric activator ATP, the inhibitor malonate is enclosed between the large and small domains while ATP is distal to the active site, residing at the dimer interface with the Tyr121 hydroxyl group contacting the ATP a-phosphate. In contrast, in ‘open’ hSR structures, Tyr121 sits in the core of the small domain with its hydroxyl contacting the key catalytic residue Ser84. The ability to regulate SR activity by flipping Tyr121 from the core of the small domain to the dimer interface appears to have evolved in animals with a CNS. Multiple X-ray crystallographic enzymefragment structures show that Tyr121 is flipped out of its pocket, suggesting that this pocket is druggable.
Invivogeneration of BK and JC polyomavirus defective viral genomes in human urine samples associated with higher viral loads
Authors: Addetia Amin , Phung Quynh , Bradley Benjamin T. , Lin Michelle , Zhu Haiying , Xie Hong , Huang Meei-Li , Greninger Alexander L.
Published: February 2021

Defective viral genomes (DVGs) are parasitic viral sequences containing point mutations, deletions, or duplications that might interfere with replication. DVGs are often associated with viral passage at high multiplicities of infection in culture systems but have been increasingly reported in clinical specimens. To date however, only RNA viruses have been shown to contain DVGs in clinical specimens. Here, using direct deep sequencing with multiple library preparation strategies and confirmatory ddPCR of urine samples taken from immunosuppressed individuals, we show clinical BKPyV and JCPyV strains contain widespread genomic rearrangements across multiple loci that likely interfere with viral replication. BKPyV DVGs were universally derived from type I subtype BKPyV. The presence of DVGs was associated with specimens containing higher viral loads but never reached clonality, consistent with a model of parasitized replication. These DVGs persisted during clinical infection as evidenced in two separate pairs of samples containing BK virus collected from the same individual up to 302 days apart. In a separate individual, we observed the generation of DVGs after a 57.5-fold increase in viral load. In summary, by extending the presence of DVGs in clinical specimens to DNA viruses, we demonstrate the ubiquity of DVGs in clinical virology.

IMPORTANCE

Defective viral genomes (DVGs) can have a significant impact on the production of infectious virus particles. DVGs have only been identified in cultured viruses passaged at high multiplicities of infection and RNA viruses collected from clinical specimens -- no DNA virus in the wild has been shown to contain DVGs. Here, we identified BK and JC polyomavirus DVGs in clinical urine specimens and demonstrated that these DVGs are more frequently identified in samples with higher viral loads. The strains containing DVGs had rearrangements throughout their genomes with the majority affecting genes required for viral replication. Longitudinal analysis showed these DVGs can persist during an infection, but do not reach clonality within the chronically infected host. Our identification of polyomavirus DVGs suggests these parasitic sequences exist across the many classes of viruses capable of causing human disease.
Burst Control
Authors: Leleo Eilam Goldenberg , Segev Idan
Published: February 2021

The output of neocortical layer 5 pyramidal cells (L5PCs) is expressed by a train of single spikes with intermittent bursts of multiple spikes at high frequencies. The bursts are the result of nonlinear dendritic properties, including Na+, Ca2+, and NMDA spikes, that interact with the ∼10,000 synapses impinging on the neuron’s dendrites. Output spike bursts are thought to implement key dendritic computations, such as coincidence detection of bottom-up inputs (arriving mostly at the basal tree) and top-down inputs (arriving mostly at the apical tree). In this study we used a detailed nonlinear model of L5PC receiving excitatory and inhibitory synaptic inputs to explore the conditions for generating bursts and for modulating their properties. We established the excitatory input conditions on the basal versus the apical tree that favor burst and show that there are two distinct types of bursts. Bursts consisting of 3 or more spikes firing at < 200 Hz, which are generated by stronger excitatory input to the basal versus the apical tree, and bursts of ∼2-spikes at ∼250 Hz, generated by prominent apical tuft excitation. Localized and well-timed dendritic inhibition on the apical tree differentially modulates Na+, Ca2+, and NMDA spikes and, consequently, finely controls the burst output. Finally, we explored the implications of different burst classes and respective dendritic inhibition for regulating synaptic plasticity.
A brain-based universal measure of attention: predicting task-general and task-specific attention performance and their underlying neural mechanisms from task and resting state fMRI
Authors: Yoo Kwangsun , Rosenberg Monica D , Kwon Young Hye , Avery Emily W , Lin Qi , Scheinost Dustin , Constable R Todd , Chun Marvin M
Published: February 2021

Attention is central for many aspects of cognitive performance, but there is no singular measure of a person’s overall attentional functioning across tasks. To develop a universal measure that integrates multiple components of attention, we collected data from more than 90 participants performing three different attention-demanding tasks during fMRI. We constructed a suite of whole-brain models that can predict a profile of multiple attentional components – sustained attention, divided attention and tracking, and working memory capacity – from a single fMRI scan type within novel individuals. Multiple brain regions across the frontoparietal, salience, and subcortical networks drive accurate predictions, supporting a universal (general) attention factor across tasks, which can be distinguished from task-specific attention factors and their neural mechanisms. Furthermore, connectome-to-connectome transformation modeling enhanced predictions of an individual’s attention-task connectomes and behavioral performance from their rest connectomes. These models were integrated to produce a new universal attention measure that generalizes best across multiple, independent datasets, and which should have broad utility for both research and clinical applications.
Ferulic acid combined with skeletal stem cells to repair irradiated bone defect
Authors: Liang Jia-Wu , Li Pei-Lin , Wang Qian , Liao Song , Hu Wei , Zhao Zhi-Dong , Li Zhi-Ling , Yin Bo-Feng , Mao Ning , Ding Li , Zhu Heng
Published: February 2021

The reconstruction of irradiated bone defects after settlement of skeletal tumors remains a significant challenge in clinical applications. In this study, we explored radiation-induced skeletal stem cell (SSC) stemness impairments and rescuing effects of ferulic acid (FA) on SSCsin vitroandin vivo. The immunophenotype, cell renewal, cell proliferation, and differentiation of SSCsin vitroafter irradiation were investigated. Mechanistically, the changes in tissue regeneration-associated gene expression and MAPK pathway activation in irradiated SSCs were evaluated. The regenerative capacity of SSCs in the presence of FA in an irradiated bone defect mouse model was also investigated. We found that irradiation reduced CD140a- and CD105-positive cells in skeletal tissues and mouse-derived SSCs. Additionally, irradiation suppressed cell proliferation, colony formation, and osteogenic differentiation of SSCs. The RNA-Seq results showed that tissue regeneration-associated gene expression decreased, and the western blotting results demonstrated the suppression of phosphorylated p38/MAPK and ERK/MAPK in irradiated SSCs. Notably, FA significantly rescued the radiation-induced impairment of SSCs by activating the p38/MAPK and ERK/MAPK pathways. Moreover, the results of imaging and pathological analyses demonstrated that FA enhanced the bone repair effects of SSCs in an irradiated bone defect mouse model substantially. Importantly, inhibition of the p38/MAPK and ERK/MAPK pathways in SSCs by specific chemical inhibitors partially abolished the promotive effect of FA on SSC-mediated bone regeneration. In summary, our findings reveal a novel function of FA in repairing irradiated bone defects by maintaining SSC stemness and suggest that the p38/MAPK and ERK/MAPK pathways contribute to SSC-mediated tissue regeneration post-radiation.

Significance Statement

Radiotherapy combined with surgery for the settlement of skeletal tumors usually leads to large bone defects and hampers wound healing. Skeletal stem cells (SSCs) have been defined as tissue-specific stem cells in skeletons and are highlighted in bone development and regeneration. Ferulic acid is a phytochemical with a wide range of therapeutic effects, including alleviation of radiation-induced oxidative stress and promotion of tissue regeneration. In the current study, promising data based on anin vitrocell model and anin vivoanimal model demonstrates that ferulic acid alleviates radiation-induced impairment of SSCs and promotes SSC-mediated bone regeneration post-radiation.
A Brownian ratchet model for DNA loop extrusion by the cohesin complex
Authors: Higashi Torahiko L , Tang Minzhe , Pobegalov Georgii , Uhlmann Frank , Molodtsov Maxim
Published: February 2021

The cohesin complex topologically encircles DNA to promote sister chromatid cohesion. Alternatively cohesin extrudes DNA loops, thought to reflect chromatin domain formation. Here, we propose a structure-based model explaining both activities, supported by biochemical experiments. ATP and DNA binding to cohesin promote conformational changes that guide DNA through a kleisin gate into a DNA gripping state. Two HEAT-repeat DNA binding modules, associated with cohesin’s heads and hinge, are now juxtaposed. ATP hydrolysis disassembles the gripping state, allowing unidirectional hinge module movement to complete topological DNA entry. Without initial kleisin gate passage, biased hinge module motion during gripping state resolution creates a Brownian ratchet that drives loop extrusion. Molecular-mechanical simulations of gripping state formation and resolution cycles recapitulate experimentally observed DNA loop extrusion characteristics. Our model extends to asymmetric and symmetric loop extrusion, as well as z-loop formation. Loop extrusion by biased Brownian fluctuations has important implications for chromosomal cohesin function.
Bent Laue crystal anatomy: new insights into focusing and energy-dispersion properties
Authors: Qi Peng , Shi Xianbo , Samadi Nazanin , Chapman Dean
Published: February 2021

X-ray Laue-type monochromators are common and essential optical components at many high-power X-ray facilities, e.g. synchrotron facilities. The X-ray optics of bent Laue crystals is a well developed area. An incident X-ray beam penetrating a bent Laue crystal will result in a diffracted beam with different angles and energies. There is a need for a way of organizing the rays that allows one to sort out the energy and spatial properties of the diffracted beam. The present work introduces a new approach for describing the general behaviour of bent Laue crystals from a ray-tracing point of view. This quasi-monochromatic beam approach provides an intuitive view of bent-crystal diffraction and leads to deeper understanding. It explains the energy and spatial properties of common and special cases of bent Laue optics, predicts phenomena that can improve energy-dispersion-related X-ray imaging techniques and provides a theoretical framework that makes ray-tracing simulation easier to realize.
Restaurant proactive philanthropic activities and customer loyalty: a scenario-based study during the COVID-19 pandemic period
Authors: Ding Li , Jiang Caifen
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This study aims to (1) examine the effect of customer awareness of restaurant philanthropic activities on customer loyalty; (2) investigate the mediating roles of customer social benevolence trust, perceived restaurant reputation and affective commitment on the relationship between their awareness of restaurant philanthropic activities and customer loyalty; and (3) test the path effect differences between the directed and general philanthropic activities during the COVID-19 pandemic period.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used online scenario-based surveys to collect data. Based on 293 useable surveys, partial least squares structural equation modeling was applied for data analysis.

Findings

This study finds that customer awareness of restaurant philanthropic activities positively relates to customer loyalty. Moreover, customer social benevolence trust, perceived restaurant reputation and affective commitment have positive mediating effects on the relationship between their awareness of restaurant philanthropic activities and customer loyalty. There is no significant path effect difference between the directed and general philanthropic activities.

Practical implications

This study suggests that restaurant decision-makers should conduct either directed or general philanthropic activities as a marketing tool to sustain customers during the COVID-19 recovery.

Originality/value

This study is the first study that discusses the marketing role of corporate philanthropy in the restaurant industry during the COVID-19 pandemic and stresses the importance of proactive strategic donations that helps restaurants' recovery.
How is table tennis used to boost the development of Shanghai? Interviewing the executive director of Shanghai Table Tennis Association
Authors: Zhang Yi , Gu Hao Dong
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Scholars have examined the relationship between sports and urban development and proposed to use sport programs and events as a catalyst to revitalize communities, upgrade urban infrastructure, promote city image, shift economic structure, nurture an active lifestyle, and enhance societal harmony and solidarity. Yet, previous studies were usually focused on mega sport events and were typically conceptual, theoretical and lack of practical applications. This study was designed to attain in-depth understanding on how a specific sport, table tennis, can be systematically organized and utilized to influence urban development through a qualitative research injury.

Design/methodology/approach

This investigation was carried by conducting in-depth interviews of the executive director of the Shanghai Table Tennis Association, on-site observations and comprehensive review of literature. Development of interview questions took into consideration the conceptual framework postulated by Preuss (2007) that contains six structures of urban development through sports. Triangulation analyses were conducted to cross validate the three information sources to generate themes and assertions.

Findings

While the identified practices were consistent with Preuss' (2007) framework, specific management activities earnestly practiced in Shanghai are centered on utilizing cultural and historical heritage, star power, branding strategies, staging tournaments, hallmark events, technical innovation and government relations to achieve the objectives of table tennis as a sport and the objectives of urban development through table tennis.

Originality/value

The findings of this study help fill the void that a theory usually cannot specify, namely, detailed, unambiguous practices. While table tennis may be a viewed as a small sport in many parts of the world, it has a strong, unprecedented historical heritage in Shanghai. This city has made a prudent choice and investment in this sport, which has proved to be effective. Other cities in the world should look into their own social, cultural and historical heritage and develop sport strategies, operations and programs accordingly.
Determinants of financial performance of listed firms manufacturing food products in Vietnam: regression analysis and Blinder–Oaxaca decomposition analysis
Authors: Le Thi Kim Nhung , Duvernay Daphné , Le Thanh Huyen
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This article studies the impact of micro and macro factors on firm performance in the context of an emerging economy just changed from a subsidized economy to a market economy.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors carried out an investigation into 30 listed food processing companies in Vietnam from 2014 to 2019. The data are analyzed by using STATA software. In this study, beside the regression analytical technique, the Blinder–Oaxaca decomposition analysis is used to study more deeply the effect of variables on financial performance of food processing companies, so its results are reliable base to give suggestions.

Findings

The results of empirical research help us to have some following conclusion. First, two variables consisting of total assets turnover ratio (ATR) and growth in sales significantly influence financial performance, when it is measured by return on equity (ROE) or return on sales (ROS). Second, leverage significantly negatively impacts return on sale. Third, there are difference in financial performance and the effect of predictors on dependent variable “ROS” between state-owned enterprises (SOEs) and non SOEs, and the causes come from the component effect.

Originality/value

In fact, although a range of previous researches on that topic have been carried out, none of them dig deeper reasons resulting to the differences in financial performance between SOEs and non SOEs, whereas Vietnamese economy has just changed to a market economy since 1986, making impacts of State ownership totally different from other countries. In this study, the authors use the t-test and analysis to have more accurate conclusions about that problem.
Factors influencing the adoption of public–private partnership in low-cost housing development in Myanmar
Authors: Nyein The Su , Hadikusumo Bonaventura H.W.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

To provide low-cost housing, the Myanmar Government is attempting to use public–private partnership (PPP) to attract private investors. However, there is little information concerning the influencing factors for implementing PPP low-cost housing projects in Myanmar. This paper, therefore, aims to identify and analyse these factors.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 51 in-depth interviews were conducted with interviewees involved in various kinds of housing projects implemented through the adoption of PPP or other approaches. The methods of data collection and the analysis are based on grounded theory (GT) methodology.

Findings

Using the GT method to analyse the interviews, five categories emerged from 50 influencing factors regarding the establishment and implementation of the PPP model for low-cost housing in Myanmar: provision of incentives; obstacles in implementing PPP for all stakeholders; barriers to private sector participation; public sector responsibilities and challenges; and attraction factors and challenges for financial institutions. Among 12 newly found factors, the three most important for PPP low-cost housing in Myanmar are the availability of project funding, the resolution of land-acquisition issues and the development of a sound financing system.

Research limitations/implications

Our findings strengthen previous studies by identifying factors affecting PPP low-cost housing either specific to Myanmar or common among other countries. Of the 50 factors identified, 38 factors were found in previous studies, but 12 are likely specific to Myanmar.

Practical implications

Our findings can be used by governments, particularly the Myanmar Government, and financial agencies to understand the low attractiveness of PPP low-cost housing for investors and to develop/improve policies to stimulate PPP low-cost housing, especially in Myanmar.

Originality/value

Many previous studies have been undertaken to identify factors that influence the implementation of PPP for low-cost housing. However, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, there are no prior studies specific to Myanmar in this context.
Flexibility decision pathways in the management of uncertainty in property development: experience from an emerging market
Authors: Ayodele Timothy Oluwafemi , Olaleye Abel
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the flexible decision pathways adopted by development advisors in the management of uncertainty in property development. Specifically, the study examines the quantitative techniques adopted by development advisors, the level of adoption of real options analysis (ROA) vis-à-vis the level of adoption of heuristics. Finally, the types of options exercised in property development were analysed. This was with a view to providing information that could mitigate the challenges of risk and uncertainty and increasing investment failure associated with property development in Nigeria, an emerging market.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted a survey method and was conducted on development advisors in property development companies/estate surveying and valuation firms in Nigeria. A total of 195 development advisors participated in the survey. The respondents were required to rate, on a five-point Likert scale, the level of adoption of the quantitative models, heuristics and the types of flexibility exercised during development. The data were analysed using mean rating, one-sample t-test and analysis of variance.

Findings

The results revealed that there was a preference for the use of traditional techniques, while probabilistic appraisal models and other contemporary methods such as ROA are seldom adopted by development advisors. While there was a significantly high level of adoption of heuristics, the stratified analysis examining the profile of the respondents and the level of adoption of ROA and heuristics suggests that years of experience influenced the level of adoption of both the ROA and heuristics by the development advisors. The analysis of the types of flexibility showed that staging/phasing and changing the initial use/design were the most prevalent flexibility pathways adopted during the development. However, the study found that there was no significant difference concerning the choice of flexibility being adopted by development advisors who used ROA and those who did not.

Practical implications

The study provides an understanding of the decision pathways adopted by development advisors in an emerging market like Nigeria.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to studies on decision-making pathways in the management of uncertainty under dynamic conditions by development advisors in emerging markets.
Utilization of maternal health services in rural Thawang, Rolpa district of Nepal: a community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Hushen Jahirul , Powwattana Arpaporn , Munsawaengsub Chockchai , Siri Sukhontha
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This study aimed to identify the proportion and factors influencing the use of maternal health services (MHS) in rural Thawang, Rolpa, Nepal.

Design/methodology/approach

This was a community-based cross-sectional study conducted among 417 mothers who had given birth in the previous two years. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression was applied to identify associations and predictors.

Findings

The results showed that the use of maternal health services was 50.8%. Adjusting for all other factors in the final model, age group 25–30 years (AOR: 2.30; 95% CI: 1.199–4.422), spouse communication (AOR: 7.31; 95% CI: 2.574–20.791), high accessibility (AOR: 2.552, 95% CI: 1.402–4.643) and high affordability (AOR: 10.89; 95% CI: 4.66–25.445) were significant predictors.

Research limitations/implications

This is a community-based cross-sectional study, and hence cannot establish causal relationships. The research was conducted in a limited rural area mid-Western Nepal, and this may limit the generalization of results to other settings of the country.

Practical implications

This research supports to local level government and district health authority to develop and implement need based action to increase maternal health service in the local context.

Originality/value

Underutilization of maternal health services is the result of socioeconomic dynamics, poor access to health services and other physical developments. To increase utilization of maternal health services in rural areas, there is a need to tackle the root cause of health inequality such as reducing poverty, increasing female education, involving women in employment and increasing access to health as a priority development agenda by government authorities. This research supports local level government and district health authorities to develop and implement needs-based action to increase MHS in the local context.
Pedagogical continuity: myth or reality?
Authors: Coulange Lalina , Stunell Kari , Train Grégory
Published: February 2021

Purpose

In March 2020, with only two working days’notice the French national education system went online due to the coronavirus pandemic. This study explores the relationship between the move to distance learning, the teaching practices employed and the socio-economic context of the learners in French schools during this period. We ask how far the changes in teaching practices during the coronavirus crisis were influenced by the social context of teaching. And to what extent this context influenced the focus of the pedagogical continuity those teachers set up.

Design/methodology/approach

A review of the literature situates the study within the field of mathematics teaching practices. The study was carried out through a multidimensional analysis using multiple correspondences of the responses of 368 French secondary school mathematics teachers to an online questionnaire.

Findings

We found that the unprepared move to distance learning impeded the employment of dialogic practices. The socio-economic situation of the teaching was identified as a determining factor in the teachers' different interpretations of the term pedagogical continuity. Whilst those working in more deprived areas tended towards practices which focused on maintaining pupils' links with school, consolidation of knowledge and providing social/affective support, those teaching a more privileged public favoured tools and practices which allowed them to focus on the disciplinary content of their teaching.

Practical implications

The challenge of maintaining dialogic activities – teacher education to combat inequalities.

Originality/value

A quantitative study of mathematics teachers providing pedagogical continuity through distance learning for the duration of the crisis.
Two patients with Papillon–Lefèvre syndrome without periodontal involvement of the permanent dentition
Authors: Umlauft Julian , Schnabl Dagmar , Blunder Stefan , Moosbrugger‐Martinz Verena , Kapferer‐Seebacher Ines , Zschocke Johannes , Schmuth Matthias , Gruber Robert
Published: February 2021

Papillon–Lefèvre syndrome (PLS) is a rare autosomal recessive genodermatosis characterized by palmoplantar keratoderma and severe periodontitis leading to premature loss of primary and permanent teeth. PLS is caused by loss‐of‐function mutations in CTSC, lacking functional cathepsin C, which impairs the activation of neutrophil serine proteases. Precise pathogenesis of periodontal damage is unknown. Patient 1 presented with well‐demarcated, transgredient, diffuse, palmoplantar keratoderma and psoriasiform lesions from the age of 2 years. Based on severe and recurrent periodontal inflammation, his dentist had diagnosed PLS at the age of 3 years and provided a strict oral hygiene regimen with repeated adjunct antibiotic therapies. Oral acitretin 10 mg/day along with tretinoin ointment at the age of 9 greatly improved palmoplantar keratoderma. Aged 18 years, the patient exhibited an intact permanent dentition and absence of periodontal disease. Patient 2, a 30‐year‐old man, suffered from transgredient, diffuse, palmoplantar keratoderma with fissuring from the age of 2 months, marked psoriasiform plaques on elbows and knees, and nail dystrophy. Intriguingly, without specific dental treatment, teeth and dental records were unremarkable. He was referred with a suspected diagnosis of psoriasis. Both patients were otherwise healthy, blood tests and sonography of internal organs were within normal limits. Panel sequencing revealed loss‐of‐function mutations in CTSC, c.322A>T (p.Lys108Ter) and c.504C>G (p.Tyr168Ter) in patient 1 and homozygous c.415G>T (p.Gly139Ter) in patient 2. The final diagnosis of unusual PLS was made. PLS should be considered in palmoplantar keratoderma lacking periodontitis or tooth loss.
Epidemiological survey of the psoriasis patients in the Japanese Society for Psoriasis Research from 2013 to 2018
Authors: Kamiya Koji , Oiso Naoki , Kawada Akira , Ohtsuki Mamitaro
Published: February 2021

In Japan, the Japanese Society for Psoriasis Research (JSPR) has been conducting annual epidemiological surveys of patients with psoriasis since 1982. The aim of this study was to conduct a recent epidemiological analysis of the psoriasis patients who were enrolled in the JSPR from 2013 to 2018. A total of 15 287 cases were enrolled from 132 medical institutions, out of which 65.3% (9989 cases) were male and 34.7% (5298 cases) were female. Approximately 50.0% of the cases had past history and comorbidities, such as hypertension (42.0%), dyslipidemia (30.0%), diabetes mellitus (23.7%), hyperuricemia (15.1%), cardiovascular disease (6.0%), and cerebral vascular disorders (6.0%). There was a yearly increase in the use of corticosteroid/vitamin D3 combinations and apremilast for treating psoriasis. In contrast, the use of phototherapy gradually decreased. From 2013 to 2018, approximately 18.6% of the cases were treated with biologics, such as infliximab (17.6%), adalimumab (23.3%), ustekinumab (21.4%), secukinumab (11.6%), ixekizumab (7.6%), brodalumab (6.3%), and guselkumab (4.3%). In the past decade, the biologics have changed the treatment and management of psoriasis. This survey includes significant information regarding the recent perspective of psoriasis in the Japanese Society, especially focusing on the treatment trends after the introduction of biologics.