bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Asymptomatic carriage rates and case-fatality of SARS-CoV-2 infection in residents and staff in Irish nursing homes
Authors: Kennelly SP , Dyer AH , Martin R , Kennelly SM , Martin A , O’Neill D , Fallon A
Published: June 2020

Background

SARS-CoV-2 has disproportionately affected nursing home (NH) residents. In Ireland, the first NH case of COVID-19 occurred on 16/03/2020. A national point-prevalence testing program of all NH residents and staff took place from 18/04/2020-05/05/2020.

Aims

To examine characteristics of NHs across three Community Health Organisations (CHOs) in Ireland, proportions with COVID-19 outbreaks, staff and resident, symptom-profile and resident case-fatality.

Methods

Forty-five NHs surveyed across three CHOs requesting details on occupancy, size, COVID-19 outbreak, timing of outbreak, total symptomatic/asymptomatic cases, and outcomes for residents from 29/02/2020-22/05/2020.

Results

Surveys were returned from (62.2%, 28/45) of NHs (2043 residents, 2303 beds). Three-quarters (21/28) had COVID-19 outbreaks (1741 residents, 1972 beds). Median time from first case of COVID-19 in Ireland to first case in these NHs was 27.0 days. Resident COVID-19 incidence was (43.9%, 764/1741): laboratory-confirmed (40.1%, 710/1741) with (27.2%, 193/710 asymptomatic), and clinically-suspected (3.1%, 54/1741). Resident case-fatality was (27.6%, 211/764) for combined laboratory-confirmed/clinically-suspected COVID-19. Similar proportions of residents in NH with an “early” outbreak (<28days) versus a later outbreak developed confirmed/suspected COVID-19. A lower proportion of residents in NHs with “early” outbreaks had recovered compared to those with “late” outbreaks (37.4% vs 61.7%; χ2=56.9, p<0.001). Among 675 NH staff across twenty-four sites who had confirmed/suspected COVID-19 (23.6%, 159/675) were asymptomatic. There was a significant correlation between the proportion of staff with symptomatic COVID-19 and resident numbers with confirmed/suspected COVID-19 (Spearman’s rho=0.81, p<0.001).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates COVID-19 impact on NH residents and staff. High infection rates lead to challenges in care provision.
The male excess case-fatality rates for COVID-19 – A meta-analytic study of the age-related differences and consistency over six countries
Authors: Green Manfred S , Schwartz Naama , Nitzan Dorit , Peer Victoria
Published: June 2020

Background

Early in the COVID-19 pandemic, it was noted that males seemed to be more affected than females. We examined the magnitude and consistency of the sex differences in age-specific case-fatality rates (CFRs) in six countries.

Methods

Data on the cases and deaths from COVID-19, by sex and age group, were extracted from the published reports from Denmark, England, Israel, Italy, Spain, and the United States. Age-specific CFRs were computed for males and females separately. The ratio of the male to female CFRs were computed and meta-analytic methods were used to obtained pooled estimates of the male to female ratio of the CFRs over the six countries, for seven age-groups.

Findings

The CFRs were consistently higher in males at all ages. The differences were greater in the younger age groups. The pooled M:F CFR ratios were 2.53, 2.92, 2.57, 1.83, 1.57, 1.58 and 1.48 for ages 0-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, 80-89 and 90+. There was remarkable consistency between countries in the magnitude of the M:F CFRs, in each age group. In meta-regression, age group explained almost all the heterogeneity in the CFR ratios.

Conclusions

The sex differences in the CFRs are intriguing and are compatible with the male dominance in the incidence rates of many infectious diseases. For COVID-19, factors such as sex differences in the prevalence of underlying diseases may play a part in the CFR differences. However, the greater severity of the disease in males, particularly at younger ages, may be part of the disease mechanism and should be explored further.

Funding

No funding was provided for this study. The authors declare no conflict of interests
Bipolar disorder and cannabis use: a bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Jefsen Oskar Hougaard , Speed Maria , Speed Doug , Østergaard Søren Dinesen
Published: June 2020

Aims

Cannabis use is associated with a number of psychiatric disorders, however the causal nature of these associations has been difficult to establish. Mendelian randomization (MR) offers a way to infer causality between exposures with known genetic predictors (genome-wide significant single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs)) and outcomes of interest. MR has previously been applied to investigate the relationship between lifetime cannabis use (having ever used cannabis) and schizophrenia, depression, and attention-deficit / hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but not bipolar disorder, representing a gap in the literature.

Methods

We conducted a two-sample bidirectional MR study on the relationship between bipolar disorder and lifetime cannabis use. Genetic instruments (SNPs) were obtained from the summary statistics of recent large genome-wide association studies (GWAS). We conducted a two-sample bidirectional MR study on the relationship between bipolar disorder and lifetime cannabis use, using inverse-variance weighted regression, weighted median regression and Egger regression.

Results

Genetic liability to bipolar disorder was significantly associated with an increased risk of lifetime cannabis use: scaled log-odds ratio (standard deviation) = 0.0174 (0.039); P-value = 0.00001. Genetic liability to lifetime cannabis use showed no association with the risk of bipolar disorder: scaled log-odds ratio (standard deviation) = 0.168 (0.180); P-value = 0.351. The sensitivity analyses showed no evidence for pleiotropic effects.

Conclusions

The present study finds evidence for a causal effect of liability to bipolar disorder on the risk of using cannabis at least once. No evidence was found for a causal effect of liability to cannabis use on the risk of bipolar disorder. These findings add important new knowledge to the understanding of the complex relationship between cannabis use and psychiatric disorders.
Age Pattern of Premature Mortality under varying scenarios of COVID-19 Infection in India
Authors: Mohanty Sanjay K , Sahoo Umakanta , Mishra Udaya S , Dubey Manisha
Published: June 2020

Background

India is vulnerable to community infection of COVID-19 due to crowded and poor living condition, high density, slums in urban areas and poor health care system. The number of COVID 19 infection has crossed 300,000 with over 7,500 deaths despite a prolonged period of lock down and restrictions in public spaces. Given the likely scale and magnitude of this pandemic, it is important to understand its impact on the age pattern of mortality under varying scenarios.

Objective

The main objective of this paper is to understand the age pattern of mortality under varying scenarios of community infection.

Data and Methods

Data from the Sample Registration System (SRS), covidi19india.org and country specific data from worldmeter is used in the analyses. Descriptive statistics, case-fatality ratio, case fatality ratio with 14 days delay, abridged life table,years of potential life lost (YPLL) and disability adjusted life years (DALY) is used.

Results

The case fatality ratio (CFR) with 14 days delay for India is at least twice higher (8.0) than CFR of 3.4. Considering 8% mortality rate and varying scenario of community infection by 0.5%, 1% and 2%, India’s life expectancy will reduce by 0.8, 1.5 and 3.0 years and potential life years lost by 12.1 million, 24.3 million and 48.6 million years respectively. A community infection of 0.5% may result in DALY by 6.2 per 1000 population. Major share of PYLL and DALY is accounted by the working ages.

Conclusion

COVID-19 has a visible impact on mortality with loss of productive life years in working ages. Sustained effort at containing the transmission at each administrative unit is recommended to arrest mortality owing to COVID-19 pandemic.

What is known?

The case fatality rate associated with COVID-19 is low in India compared to many other countries. The mortality level is higher among elderly and people with co-morbidity.

Contribution

The case fatality ratio is illusive in the sense that the same with 14 days delay for India is at least twice higher (8.0). The COVID-19 attributable mortality has the potential to reduce the longevity of the population. Unlike developed countries, about half of the COVID-19 attributable mortality would be in the working age group of 45-64 years. With any level of community infection, the years of potential life lost (YPLL) and disability adjusted life years (DALY) world be highest in the working age group (45-64 years).
Emotional health concerns of oncology physicians in the United States: fallout during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Thomaier Lauren , Teoh Deanna , Jewett Patricia , Beckwith Heather , Parsons Helen , Yuan Jianling , Blaes Anne H. , Lou Emil , Ching Hui Jane Yuet , Vogel Rachel I.
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Cancer care is significantly impacted by the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Our objective was to evaluate the effect of the pandemic on the emotional well-being of oncology providers across the United States and explore factors associated with anxiety and depression symptoms.

Methods and Materials

A cross-sectional survey was administered to United States cancer-care physicians recruited over a two-week period (3/27/2020 – 4/10/2020) using snowball-convenience sampling through social media. Symptoms of anxiety and depression were measured using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-4).

Results

Of 486 participants, 374 (77.0%) completed the PHQ-4: mean age 45.7±9.6 years; 63.2% female; all oncologic specialties were represented. The rates of anxiety and depression symptoms were 62.0% and 23.5%, respectively. Demographic factors associated with anxiety included female sex, younger age, and less time in clinical practice. Perception of inadequate PPE (68.6% vs. 57.4%, p=0.03) and practicing in a state with more COVID-19 cases (65.8% vs. 51.1%, p=0.01) were associated with anxiety symptoms. Factors significantly associated with both anxiety and depression included: degree to which COVID-19 has interfered with the ability to provide treatment to cancer patients and concern that patients will not receive the level of care needed for non-COVID-19 illness (all p-values <0.01).

Conclusion

The prevalence of anxiety and depression symptoms among oncology physicians in the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic is high. Our findings highlight factors associated with and sources of psychological distress to be addressed to protect the well-being of oncology physicians.
Associations between mask-wearing, handwashing, and social distancing practices and risk of COVID-19 infection in public: a case-control study in Thailand
Authors: Doung-ngern Pawind , Suphanchaimat Repeepong , Panjangampatthana Apinya , Janekrongtham Chawisar , Ruampoom Duangrat , Daochaeng Nawaporn , Eungkanit Napatchakorn , Pisitpayat Nichakul , Srisong Nuengruethai , Yasopa Oiythip , Plernprom Patchanee , Promduangsi Pitiphon , Kumphon Panita , Suangtho Paphanij , Watakulsin Peeriya , Chaiya Sarinya , Kripattanapong Somkid , Chantian Thanawadee , Bloss Emily , Namwat Chawetsan , Limmathurotsakul Direk
Published: June 2020

We evaluated the effectiveness of personal protective measures, including mask-wearing, handwashing, and social distancing, against COVID-19 infection among contacts of cases. We conducted a case-control study with 211 cases and 839 non-matched controls using all contact tracing records of Thailand’s national Surveillance and Rapid Response Team. Cases were asymptomatic contacts of COVID-19 patients identified between 1 and 31 March 2020 who were diagnosed with COVID-19 by 21 April 2020; controls were asymptomatic contacts who were not diagnosed with COVID-19. Participants were queried about practices during contact periods with a case. Adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated for associations between diagnosis of COVID-19 and covariates using multivariable logistic regression models. Wearing masks all the time during contact was independently associated with lower risk of COVID-19 infection compared to not wearing masks (aOR 0.23, 95% CI 0.09– 0.60), while sometimes wearing masks during contact was not (aOR 0.87, 95% CI 0.41–1.84). Maintaining at least 1 meter distance from a COVID patient (aOR 0.15, 95% CI 0.04–0.63), duration of close contact ≤15 minutes versus longer (aOR 0.24, 95% CI 0.07–0.90), and handwashing often (aOR 0.34, 95% CI 0.13–0.87) were significantly associated with lower risk of infection. Type of mask was not independently associated with infection. Those who wore masks all the time also were more likely to practice social distancing. Our findings suggest consistent wearing of masks, handwashing, and social distancing in public to protect against COVID-19 infection.
Case report for an adolescent with germline RET mutation and alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Crawford Kenneth A. , Berlow Noah E. , Tsay Jennifer , Lazich Michael , Mancini Maria , Noakes Christopher , Huang Tannie , Keller Charles
Published: June 2020

In this case report we evaluate the genetics of and scientific basis of therapeutic options for a 14-yr-old male patient diagnosed with metastatic PAX3–FOXO1 fusion positive alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma. A distinguishing genetic feature of this patient was a germline RET C634F mutation, which is a known driver of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2A (MEN2A) cancer. Through sequential DNA and RNA sequencing analyses over the patient's clinical course, a set of gene mutations, amplifications, and overexpressed genes were identified and biological hypotheses generated to explore the biology of RET and coexisting signaling pathways in rhabdomyosarcoma. Somatic genetic abnormalities identified include CDK4 amplification and FGFR4 G388R polymorphism. Because of the initial lack of patient-derived primary cell cultures, these hypotheses were evaluated using several approaches including western blot analysis and pharmacological evaluation with molecularly similar alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma cell lines. Once a primary cell culture became available, the RET inhibitor cabozantinib was tested but showed no appreciable efficacy in vitro, affirming with the western blot negative for RET protein expression that RET germline mutation could be only incidental. In parallel, the patient was treated with cabozantinib without definitive clinical benefit. Parallel chemical screens identified PI3K and HSP90 as potential tumor-specific biological features. Inhibitors of PI3K and HSP90 were further validated in drug combination synergy experiments and shown to be synergistic in the patient-derived culture. We also evaluated the use of JAK/STAT pathway inhibitors in the context of rhabdomyosarcomas bearing the FGFR4 G388R coding variant. Although the patient succumbed to his disease, study of the patient's tumor has generated insights into the biology of RET and other targets in rhabdomyosarcoma.
Reticular dysgenesis caused by an intronic pathogenic variant in AK2
Authors: Ichikawa Shoji , Prockop Susan , Cunningham-Rundles Charlotte , Sifers Travis , Conner Blair R. , Wu Sitao , Karam Rachid , Walsh Michael F. , Fiala Elise
Published: June 2020

Reticular dysgenesis is a form of severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) caused by biallelic pathogenic variants in AK2. Here we present the case of a boy diagnosed with SCID following a positive newborn screen (NBS). Genetic testing revealed a homozygous variant: AK2 c.330 + 5G > A. In silico analyses predicted weakened native donor splice site. However, this variant was initially classified as a variant of uncertain significance (VUS) given lack of direct evidence. To determine the impact on splicing, we analyzed RNA from the proband and his parents, using massively parallel RNA-seq of cloned RT-PCR products. Analysis showed that c.330 + 5G > A results in exon 3 skipping, which encodes a critical region of the AK2 protein. With these results, the variant was upgraded to pathogenic, and the patient was given a diagnosis of reticular dysgenesis. Interpretation of VUS at noncanonical splice site nucleotides presents a challenge. RNA sequencing provides an ideal platform to perform qualitative and quantitative assessment of intronic VUS, which can lead to reclassification if a significant impact on mRNA is observed. Genetic disorders of hematopoiesis and immunity represent fruitful areas to apply RNA-based analysis for variant interpretation given the high expression of RNA in blood.
Precise breakpoint detection in a patient with 9p– syndrome
Authors: Ng Jeffrey , Sams Eleanor , Baldridge Dustin , Kremitzki Milinn , Wegner Daniel J. , Lindsay Tina , Fulton Robert , Cole F. Sessions , Turner Tychele N.
Published: June 2020

We present a case of 9p– syndrome with a complex chromosomal event originally characterized by the classical karyotype approach as 46,XX,der(9)t(9;13)(p23;q13). We used advanced technologies (Bionano Genomics genome imaging and 10× Genomics sequencing) to characterize the location of the translocation and accompanying deletion on Chromosome 9 and duplication on Chromosome 13 with single-nucleotide breakpoint resolution. The translocation breakpoint was at Chr 9:190938 and Chr 13:50850492, the deletion at Chr 9:1–190938, and the duplication at Chr 13:50850492–114364328. We identified genes in the deletion and duplication regions that are known to be associated with this patient's phenotype (e.g., ZIC2 in dysmorphic facial features, FOXD4 in developmental delay, RNASEH2B in developmental delay, and PCDH9 in autism). Our results indicate that clinical genomic assessment of individuals with complex karyotypes can be refined to a single-base-pair resolution when utilizing Bionano and 10× Genomics sequencing. With the 10× Genomics data, we were also able to characterize other variation (e.g., loss of function) throughout the remainder of the patient's genome. Overall, the Bionano and 10× technologies complemented each other and provided important insight into our patient with 9p– syndrome. Altogether, these results indicate that newer technologies can identify precise genomic variants associated with unique patient phenotypes that permit discovery of novel genotype–phenotype correlations and therapeutic strategies.
Phenol hemihydrate: redetermination of the crystal structure by neutron powder diffraction, Hirshfeld surface analysis and characterization of the thermal expansion
Authors: Fortes A. Dominic
Published: June 2020

Phenol hemihydrate, C5H5OH·0.5H2O, crystallizes in the space groupPbcn,Z= 8. The previously published crystal structure [CSD refcode PHOLHH; Meuthen & von Stackelberg (1960).Z. Elektrochem.64, 387–390] is shown to be incorrect. Pairs of phenol molecules, related by an inversion centre, are bridged by one water moleculeviaO—H...O hydrogen bonds; an extendedR44(8) hydrogen-bonded motif links these inversion dimers into chains parallel to thecaxis. Packing of the chains is achieved by weaker T-shaped C—H...π interactions between nearest neighbour phenol molecules in thebcplane. Analysis of the thermal expansion and parameterization with a Debye model in terms of the linear elastic moduli shows that thecaxis is ∼3 times stiffer than the two orthogonal directions.
(E)-2-(3,5-Dimethoxybenzylidene)indan-1-one
Authors: Encarnacion-Thomas Elvia , Sommer Roger D. , Mallia Ajay , Sloop Joseph
Published: June 2020

The title chalcone, C18H16O3, was prepared by a solventless base-promoted Claisen–Schmidt condensation and, upon recrystallization from ethanol, obtained in 56% yield. The dihedral angle between the indanone ring system and the benzene ring is 2.54 (4) ° and the C atoms of the methoxy groups deviate from the benzene ring by 0.087 (1) and 0.114 (1) Å. In the crystal, π-stacking is the predominant intermolecular force, with the molecules stacking into columns running parallel to the b axis of the unit cell.
Remote sensing satellite’s attitude control system: rapid performance sizing for passive scan imaging mode
Authors: Kosari Amirreza , Sharifi Alireza , Ahmadi Alireza , Khoshsima Masoud
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Attitude determination and control subsystem (ADCS) is a vital part of earth observation satellites (EO-Satellites) that governs the satellite’s rotational motion and pointing. In designing such a complicated sub-system, many parameters including mission, system and performance requirements (PRs), as well as system design parameters (DPs), should be considered. Design cycles which prolong the time-duration and consequently increase the cost of the design process are due to the dependence of these parameters to each other. This paper aims to describe a rapid-sizing method based on the design for performance strategy, which could minimize the design cycles imposed by conventional methods.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed technique is an adaptation from that used in the aircraft industries for aircraft design and provides a ball-park figure with little engineering man-hours. The authors have shown how such a design technique could be generalized to cover the EO-satellites platform ADCS. The authors divided the system requirements into five categories, including maneuverability, agility, accuracy, stability and durability. These requirements have been formulated as functions of spatial resolution that is the highest level of EO-missions PRs. To size, the ADCS main components, parametric characteristics of the matching diagram were determined by means of the design drivers.

Findings

Integrating the design boundaries based on the PRs in critical phases of the mission allowed selecting the best point in the design space as the baseline design with only two iterations. The ADCS of an operational agile EO-satellite is sized using the proposed method. The results show that the proposed method can significantly reduce the complexity and time duration of the performance sizing process of ADCS in EO-satellites with an acceptable level of accuracy.

Originality/value

Rapid performance sizing of EO-satellites ADCS using matching diagram technique and consequently, a drastic reduction in design time via minimization of design cycles makes this study novel and represents a valuable contribution in this field.
Time metaphor and regulatory focus
Authors: Xu Xiaobing , Chen Rong
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Two time metaphors are often adopted to express the passage of time: the ego-moving metaphor that conceptualizes the ego as moving toward the stationary event (e.g. we are approaching the holiday) or the event-moving metaphor that conceptualizes the event as moving toward the stationary ego (e.g. the holiday is approaching us). This paper aims to investigate the influence of the time metaphor on regulatory focus, as well as its downstream marketing implications.

Design/methodology/approach

Five studies were conducted. Studies 1a–1c examined the moderating effect of the valence of events on the relationship between time metaphors and regulatory focus. Studies 2–3 investigated the downstream marketing implications of the above effects.

Findings

The findings indicated that compared to the event-moving metaphor, the ego-moving metaphor is more likely to evoke a promotion focus when consumers anticipate a positive event. However, when the event is negative, the ego-moving metaphor is more likely to evoke a prevention focus compared to the event-moving metaphor.

Research limitations/implications

This research extends the previous literature on regulatory focus activation by showing that time metaphors affect regulatory focus, and that event valence plays a critical moderating role in the relationship.

Practical implications

Many companies rely on positive events (e.g. holidays, anniversaries) to market their products. The findings of this research suggest that companies promoting products with promotion-related benefits or products with higher risks should adopt an ego-moving metaphor to describe the coming of the event. In contrast, companies promoting products with prevention-related benefits or products with low risks should adopt an event-moving metaphor to describe the coming of the event.

Originality/value

This research showed that the effects of time metaphors on consumers’ regulatory focus depend on the valence of the events. It also demonstrated the downstream implications of time metaphors by showing that time metaphors influence consumer product choices and financial decisions.
Research on the improvement of technical efficiency of China's property insurance industry: a fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis
Authors: Li Zhiguang , Li Yaokuang , Long Dan
Published: June 2020

Purpose

From the perspective of cause and effect, the operational processes of property insurance companies can be considered as historical events. The purpose of this study is to measure the operating efficiency of China's property insurance industry, explore the determinants that affect technical efficiency and outline the path to achieving high-quality development.

Design/methodology/approach

We chose 44 Chinese property insurance companies as research objects. The data were obtained from the Chinese Insurance Yearbook and China Statistical Yearbook 2015–2017. First, the data envelopment analysis (DEA) method was used to calculate the technical efficiency of property insurance companies. Then, Tobit regression and quantile regression were adopted to explore the influencing factors of technical efficiency. Finally, the fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) method was employed to summarize the path to improving the operating efficiency of property insurance companies.

Findings

The empirical results in the first stage suggested that the operation efficiency of China's property insurance industry was technically inefficient, and the scale efficiency was relatively better than the pure technical efficiency. In the second stage, we observed that the drivers for firm size, reinsurance rate, claim ratio and equity restriction were important determinants of an insurance firm's efficiency.

Research limitations/implications

We also put forward four applicable, targeted and proven ways to improve the technical efficiency of property insurance companies. These configurations are verified by cases of existing property insurance companies, which can provide practical references for the insurance industry.

Originality/value

Our research enriches the insurance literature and efficiency methods, particularly regarding the specific paths of improving the technical efficiency. The relationship between elements and results is analyzed from a systematic perspective, and the research results are not only more consistent with what logic might imply but also more instructive for the improvement of reality.
The digital transformation of SMEs – a new knowledge broker called the digital innovation hub
Authors: Crupi Antonio , Del Sarto Nicola , Di Minin Alberto , Gregori Gian Luca , Lepore Dominique , Marinelli Luca , Spigarelli Francesca
Published: June 2020

Purpose

This study aims to understand if and how European digital innovation hubs (DIHs) filling the role of knowledge brokers (KBs) can support the digital transformation (DX) of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by triggering open innovation (OI) practices.

Design/methodology/approach

After presenting a conceptual model of reference, a survey and a subsequent in-depth interview were conducted to capture evidence from Italian DIHs. These structures were selected for their growing importance, as confirmed by the National Plan for Industry 4.0.

Findings

The findings highlight that Italian DIHs act not only as KBs but also as knowledge sources that give rise to a digital imprinting process that is able to shape the DX of SMEs.

Originality/value

Research on knowledge sharing and OI has mainly focused on large firms. The study covers the gaps identified in the literature by considering the role of KBs in enabling SMEs to embrace DX.
Identification of critical brand community variables and constructs using importance-performance analysis and neural networks
Authors: Haverila Matti , Haverila Kai Christian , McLaughlin Caitlin
Published: June 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to use a unique statistical analysis tool to examine the importance and performance of critical brand community constructs and indicators to make concrete recommendations for brand community managers going forward.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey was used to gather 501 responses from North American members of the Qualtrics panel. The data was analyzed with partial least squares (PLS) modeling software SmartPLS and neural networks available in statistical software JMP by SAS.

Findings

Using the brand community motives by Madupy and Cooley (2010), the results of this paper indicated that there was significant room for improvement in customer engagement. Based on further analysis, entertainment and identification with the brand community were the most important constructs in driving community engagement so that the identification construct received a “do better” ruling meaning that the improvement of the indentification construct score would enhance significantly the score of the target construct engagement score.

Originality/value

For brand community managers, it is important to know the true importance of the critical brand community constructs and indicators, along with an assessment of current performance. This helps to increase satisfaction and relationship quality among brand community members. The current study uses unique statistical analysis tools to make such concrete recommendations.
Research on trade credit – a systematic review and bibliometric analysis
Authors: Pattnaik Debidutta , Kumar Satish , Vashishtha Ashutosh
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Trade credit (TC) is a financing provision by non-financing firms. The multi-disciplinary research field has sustained scholarly attention for long. Pursuant to the gap for a comprehensive summary of the literature confined to the areas of Finance and Economics, this study aims to provide quantitative and qualitative insights not fully captured or analysed in previous reviews.

Design/methodology/approach

Contextualized systematic literature review (SLR) and bibliometric techniques are used to map the thematic, intellectual and conceptual structures latent in 138 articles published in top journals.

Findings

The top authors, top journals and major themes are recognized using bibliometric techniques followed by an in-depth bibliographic-network-based-content-analysis. Five major clusters indicating the five research dimensions within the specialized field are identified and extensively reviewed. Empirical validation of key theories is discussed in the contents and a conceptual model is developed. Finally, the study has identified key research gaps to set the direction for future research.

Research limitations/implications

The scope of the literature selection is confined to the areas of finance and economics. Future studies could elaborate on a broader perspective.

Originality/value

The study contributes by offering a conceptual model latent in the literature on TC. It derives major research gaps to set the direction of future research. Also, the combination of SLR and bibliometrics is a methodological contribution in this research domain.
Personality traits as predictor of cognitive biases: moderating role of risk-attitude
Authors: Ahmad Fawad
Published: June 2020

Purpose

This study aims to examine that personality traits are associated with the investor’s ability to exhibit disposition effect, herding behavior and overconfidence. It also explores how risk-attitude can modify investor behavior by moderating the association between personality traits, disposition effect, herding and overconfidence.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 396 respondents by using personally administrated survey. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to confirm the validity and reliability of data. Regression analysis was used to test the proposed hypotheses.

Findings

The results supported the proposed hypotheses and showed that extravert investors were more likely to exhibit disposition effect, herding and overconfidence. The conscientiousness trait was associated with disposition effect and overconfidence, while neuroticism was associated with herding behavior. The results confirmed the moderating effect of risk aversion on the association between personality traits, disposition effect, herding and overconfidence.

Originality/value

This study demonstrates how risk aversion modes the strength of association between psychological characteristics (represented by personality traits) and cognitive biases (disposition effect, herding and overconfidence). The results support the “auction” interpretation of investors' behavior by suggesting that personality traits are associated with investment decision-making and that investors are marginal price setters.
Optimization of the silica‐gel adsorption technique for the extraction of phytosterol glycosides from soybean lecithin powder using response surface methodology and artificial neural network models
Authors: Kang Jingjing , Cao Dong
Published: June 2020

Phytosterol glycosides (PGs), comprising both acylated steryl glycosides (ASGs) and steryl glycosides (SGs), are active ingredients with benefits for human use. Here, we aimed to optimize the silica‐gel adsorption technique for the extraction of PGs from soybean lecithin powder, which contains 5 to 10% of these glycolipids. Both response surface methodology (RSM) and artificial neural networks (ANNs) were applied to optimize the PG extraction parameters (X1 = silica‐gel dosage, X2 = adsorption temperature, and X3 = lecithin concentration) for high‐purity phospholipid and PG production, and their prediction and optimization accuracies were compared. Although both models fitted well with the experimental data, the ANN model demonstrated better accuracy for predicting and optimizing the conditions using four interrelated dependent variables (Y1 = phospholipid yield, Y2 = ASG recovery, Y3 = SG recovery, and Y4 = PG purity) and had a higher coefficient of determination and lower root mean square error and absolute average deviation. After digitally setting the percentages of the four dependent variables for phospholipid and PG production, the ANN‐optimized phospholipid product (Y1 = 88.07%, Y2 = 98.89%, Y3 = 100%, and Y4 = 49.03%) was acquired at X1 = 3.54 g/g, X2 = 26 °C, and X3 = 43 mg/mL, whereas the PG product (Y1 = 83.83%, Y2 = 97.64%, Y3 = 100%, and Y4 = 59.21%) was obtained at X1 = 2.00 g/g, X2 = 28.38 °C, and X3 = 41 mg/mL. In conclusion, the ANN method was better than RSM for the optimization of the silica‐gel adsorption technique for PG extraction from soybean lecithin powder.

Practical Application

This paper lays a theoretical foundation for the optimization of the industrial production of phytosterol glycosides and the comprehensive utilization of lecithin resources.
Late Holocene Moisture Changes in the Core Area of Arid Central Asia Reflected by Rock Magnetic Records of Glacier Lake Kalakuli Sediments in the Westernmost Tibetan Plateau and their Influences on the Evolution of Ancient Silk Road
Authors: WU Xudong , LIU Xingqi , APPEL Erwin
Published: June 2020

The evolution of Ancient Silk Road (ASR) was deeply influenced by late Holocene moisture changes in Arid Central Asia (ACA). Nevertheless, controversies in Holocene moisture change pattern of ACA and poorly–constrained age models of related studies have made the discussion about late Holocene moisture changes in ACA and their influences on the evolution of ASR difficult. Recently, a high–resolution age model during the late Holocene was established for Kalakuli Lake, a small glacier lake located in the core area of ACA. A thorough rock magnetic investigation was carried out on Kalakuli Lake sediments based on this age model. The magnetic mineral assemblage of Kalakuli Lake sediments is still dominated by primary magnetite despite minor diagenetic effects. Comparisons of rock magnetic records to parameters previously used as indicator of glacier fluctuations suggest that clastic input to Kalakuli Lake was high (low) and magnetic grain size is relatively larger (smaller), when glaciers on Muztagh Ata advanced (retreated). The ARM/SIRM ratio, a magnetic grain size proxy, is directly related to lake hydrodynamics, which are ultimately controlled by glacier fluctuations on Muztagh Ata as the result of regional moisture changes. Late Holocene moisture changes indicated by the ARM/SIRM ratio are consistent with cool/wet and warm/dry oscillations indicated by the unweighted average of biomarker hydrogen isotopic data of the C26 and C28 n–alkanoic acids in a previous study about Kalakuli Lake, most moisture change records of the core area of ACA and winter insolation of the Northern Hemisphere, but opposite to Asian monsoon evolution. Given Asian monsoon and the westerlies are mutually inhibited, we propose that late Holocene moisture changes in the core area of ACA were controlled by the intensity of Asian monsoon versus the westerlies under the governance of solar insolation. Generally increased moisture since the late Holocene indicated by the ARM/SIRM ratio favored cultural exchange and integration between the western and the eastern Eurasia, which paved the way for the formation of ASR. Coincidence between significant increase in moisture at ~200 BC suggested by the ARM/SIRM ratio and the formation of ASR indicates moisture as an important factor that facilitated the formation of ASR. The onsets of three prosperity periods of ASR in the history generally correspond to periods when moisture was relatively high, nevertheless, stagnant periods of ASR do not coincide with periods when moisture was relatively low in the core area of ACA. Disorganized correlations between stagnant periods of ASR and moisture changes in the core area of ACA suggest that moisture is not the decisive factor influencing the evolution of ASR.
Holocene Moisture Variation Recorded by Aeolian Sand‐Palaeosol Sequences of the Gonghe Basin, Northeastern Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau, China
Authors: LIU Bing , ZHAO Hui , JIN Heling , CHEN Fahu
Published: June 2020

The northeastern Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau (QTP) of China is located at the triple junction of the Asian winter and summer monsoons and the westerlies, where paleoclimatic evolution has an important scientific significance for recognizing the spatial‐temporal pattern of Asian monsoons in the past and predicting environmental change in the future. Nevertheless, the framework of the Holocene moisture variation and related mechanisms remain controversial, owing to complex hydroclimatic conditions triggered by the landform of the large mountain‐arid basin. Here, we employed geochemical proxies from typical aeolian sand‐palaeosol sequences in the Gonghe Basin, northeastern QTP, together with Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) dating, to reconstruct the pattern of effective moisture variation and associated mechanisms in this region. Our results indicate that the regional effective moisture was at its lowest until 9–8 ka, and approached a maximum during 8–4/3 ka of the middle Holocene. Afterwards, the climate became relatively dry in general, but with a transient humid interval around 2–1 ka. Our geochemical evidence indicates that the dry early Holocene probably can be attributed to a strong winter monsoon forced by remnant ice sheet, combined with the high evaporation caused by solar insolation. Also, shifts of humid‐dry are closely linked to the Asian summer monsoonal strength and therefore the balance of evaporation‐precipitation in the middle and late Holocene. Thus, the pattern of the Holocene effective moisture variation is characterized as the ‘monsoon model’ in a closed intermontane arid and semi‐arid basin near the western Asian monsoonal limit.
The PMIP3 Simulated Climate Changes over Arid Central Asia during the Mid‐Holocene and Last Glacial Maximum
Authors: XU Hongna , WANG Tao , WANG Huijun , MIAO Jiapeng , CHEN Jianhui , CHEN Shengqian
Published: June 2020

In this study, the climate changes over Arid Central Asia (ACA) during the mid‐Holocene (approximately 6,000 calendar years ago, MH) and the Last Glacial Maximum (approximately 21,000 calendar years ago, LGM) were investigated using multimodel simulations derived from the Paleoclimate Modelling Intercomparison Project Phase 3 (PMIP3). During the MH, the multimodel median (MMM) shows that in the core region of ACA, the regionally averaged annual surface air temperature (SAT) decreases by 0.13°C and annual precipitation decreases by 3.45%, compared with the preindustrial (PI) climate. The MMM of the SAT increases by 1.67/0.13°C in summer/autumn, whereas it decreases by 1.23/1.11°C in spring/winter. The amplitude of the seasonal cycles of the SAT increases over ACA due to different MH orbital parameters. For precipitation, the regionally averaged MMM decreases by 5.77%/5.69%/0.39%/5.24% in spring/summer/autumn/winter, respectively. Based on the analysis of the aridity index (AI), compared with the PI, a drier climate appears in southern Central Asia and western Xinjiang due to decreasing precipitation. During the LGM, the MMM shows that the regionally averaged SAT decreases by 5.04/4.36/4.70/5.12/5.88°C and precipitation decreases by 27.78%/28.16%/31.56%/27.74%/23.29% annually and in the spring, summer, autumn, and winter, respectively. Robust drying occurs throughout almost the whole core area. Decreasing precipitation plays a dominant role in shaping the drier conditions, whereas strong cooling plays a secondary but opposite role. In response to the LGM external forcings, over Central Asia and Xinjiang, the seasonal cycle of precipitation has a smaller amplitude compared with that under the PI climate. In the model‐data comparison, the simulated MH moisture changes over ACA are to some extent consistent with the reconstructions, further confirming that drier conditions occurred during that period than during the PI.
Progesterone/Org inhibits lung adenocarcinoma cell growth via membrane progesterone receptor alpha
Authors: Xiao Jian , Chen Xi , Lu Xiaoxiao , Xie Mingxuan , He Bixiu , He Shuya , You Shaojin , Chen Qiong
Published: June 2020

Background

The aim of this study was to determine whether progesterone could inhibit the growth of lung adenocarcinoma cells via membrane progesterone receptor alpha (mPRα) and elucidate its potential mechanism. The relationship between mPRα expression and the survival prognosis of lung adenocarcinoma patients was studied.

Methods

A mPRα knockdown lung adenocarcinoma cell line was constructed and treated with P4 and Org (a derivative of P4 and specific agonist of mPRα). Cell proliferation was assessed using CCK‐8 and plate colony formation assays. Protein expression was detected by western blotting. A nude mouse model of lung adenocarcinoma was established to assess the antitumor effect of P4/Org in vivo.

Results

We initially determined that mPRα could promote the development of lung adenocarcinoma through the following lines of evidence. High expression of mPRα both at the mRNA and protein level was significantly associated with the poor prognosis of lung adenocarcinoma patients. The downregulation of mPRα inhibited the proliferation of lung adenocarcinoma cells. We further showed that mPRα mediates the ability of P4 to inhibit the growth of lung adenocarcinoma cells through the following lines of evidence: P4/Org inhibited the proliferation of lung adenocarcinoma cells; mPRα mediated the ability of P4/Org to inhibit lung adenocarcinoma cell proliferation; mPRα mediated the ability of P4/Org to inhibit the PKA (cAMP‐dependent protein kinase)/CREB (cAMP responsive element binding protein) and PKA/β‐catenin signaling pathways; and P4/Org inhibited the growth of a lung adenocarcinoma tumor model in vivo.

Conclusions

In summary, the results of our study show that progesterone can inhibit lung adenocarcinoma cell growth via mPRα.
Loop diuretics in adult intensive care patients with fluid overload: A protocol for a systematic review of randomised clinical trials with meta‐analysis and Trial Sequential Analysis
Authors: Wichmann Sine , Barbateskovic Marija , Lindschou Jane , Gluud Christian , Perner Anders , Bestle Morten H.
Published: June 2020

Background

In the intensive care unit, fluid overload is frequent and a risk factor for organ dysfunction and increased mortality. Primarily, lung and kidney functions may be impaired by fluid overload resulting in acute respiratory failure and acute kidney injury. No clinical guidelines exist for treatment of fluid overload in intensive care patients. Loop diuretics, most often furosemide, appear to be the most frequently used pharmacological intervention. The aim of this protocol is to describe the methods of a systematic review assessing the evidence of treatment with loop diuretics in adult intensive care patients with fluid overload.

Methods

We will conduct a systematic review with meta‐analysis and report it according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) Statements, use the recommendations of the Cochrane Handbook and assess the quality of the evidence using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology. We will include randomised clinical trials identified through searches of major international databases and trial registers. Two authors will independently screen and select trials for inclusion, extract data and assess the methodological quality using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Extracted data will be analysed using Review Manager and Trial Sequential Analysis. The protocol is registered at PROSPERO.

Discussion

We aim to provide reliable evidence on the use of loop diuretics in adult intensive care patients with fluid overload to guide clinicians, decision makers and trialists on clinical practice.