bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Business strategy, performance appraisal and organizational results
Authors: Bayo-Moriones Alberto , Galdon-Sanchez Jose Enrique , Martinez-de-Morentin Sara
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyze how the design of performance appraisal is influenced by the competitive strategy of the firm. Then, this paper examines if the alignment between appraisal and strategy impacts firm performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The study sample includes 258 Spanish firms in the manufacturing and services sectors. This information was gathered through questionnaires addressed to the CEO and the senior human resources manager. Several econometric models are estimated, using robust regression analysis and including a set of relevant control variables.

Findings

A positive relationship is found between an innovation strategy and developmental performance appraisal. A cost strategy has a negative impact on the adoption of developmental performance appraisal. The findings also confirm that firms with a quality strategy and developmental appraisal have higher performance. In addition, firms adopting an innovation strategy and administrative appraisal enjoy higher return of equity.

Research limitations/implications

Future research should analyze the dynamics of the relationships between appraisal, strategy and performance to rule out the flaws of cross-sectional data. Another potential extension is the analysis of the interactions of the design of other human resources management practices with both competitive strategy and firm performance.

Practical implications

Firms can improve performance by aligning performance appraisal design with strategy. Those with an innovation strategy should choose administrative appraisal, and those competing on quality should focus on developmental appraisal.

Originality/value

This paper compares the theoretical recommendations on performance appraisal for different competitive strategies, what firms actually do, and the impact that the alignment between appraisal and strategy has on firm performance.
Who are macro-community members: an answer from the viewpoint of Confucianism
Authors: Lo Hung Kei Kenneth
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to present and discuss the findings from a qualitative study of victim-offender mediation meetings in two non-government organisations in Hong Kong between January 2015 and February 2016. It argues that mediators in Hong Kong have a unique interpretation of the criteria for someone to be considered a “macro-community member”. Confucian relational ethics emphasises that everyone lives in a personal nexus and wrongdoings will disturb this nexus. In this specific context, therefore, mediators feel that reconciliation and reparation should be dealt with by the people in the offender’s network while the involvement of unknown macro-community members is discouraged.

Design/methodology/approach

The semi-structured interview was adopted for use in this study, and an interview schedule with 12 open-ended questions was prepared as a guideline for conducting the interviews.

Findings

Mediators in Hong Kong have a unique interpretation of the criteria for someone to be considered a “macro-community member” Confucian relational ethics emphasises that everyone lives in a personal nexus and wrongdoings will disturb this nexus. Reconciliation and reparation should be dealt with by the people in the network, and the involvement of macro-community members will certainly disturb this network.

Originality/value

This study was conducted by the author between January 2015 and February 2016 for the purpose of obtaining a doctorate. The paper has neither been published previously nor is it under review for publication in any other journal at this time.
The inversion of data from very large three‐dimensional electrical resistivity tomography mobile surveys
Authors: Loke M.H. , Papadopoulos N. , Wilkinson P.B. , Oikonomou D. , Simyrdanis K. , Rucker D.F.
Published: July 2020

New developments in mobile resistivity meter instrumentation have made it possible to survey large areas with dense data coverage. The mobile system usually has a limited number of electrodes attached to a cable that is pulled along behind an operator so that a large area can be covered within a short time. Such surveys can produce three‐dimensional datasets with hundreds of thousands of electrodes positions and data points. Similarly, the inverse model used to interpret the data can have several hundred thousand cells. It is impractical to model such large datasets within a reasonable time on microcomputers used by many small companies employing standard inversion techniques. We describe a model segmentation technique that subdivides the finite‐element mesh used to calculate the apparent resistivity and Jacobian matrix values into a number of smaller meshes. A fast technique that optimizes the calculation of the Jacobian matrix values for multi‐channel systems was also developed. A one‐dimensional wavelet transform method was then used to compress the storage of the Jacobian matrix, in turn reducing the computer time and memory required to solve the least‐squares optimization equation to determine the inverse model resistivity values. The new techniques reduce the calculation time and memory required by more than 80% while producing models that differ by less than 1% from that obtained using the standard inversion technique with a single mesh. We present results using a synthetic model and a field dataset that illustrates the effectiveness of the proposed techniques.
IgE‐mediated chlorhexidine allergy—Cross‐reactivity with other biguanide disinfectants
Authors: Mueller‐Wirth Nicole , Buenter Antonia , Jörg Lukas , Ebo Didier G. , Glatz Martin , Fernando Suran L. , Spoerl David , Helbling Arthur , Hausmann Oliver , Gupta Nisha , Pichler Werner J.
Published: July 2020

Background

Chlorhexidine (CHX) is a widely utilized disinfectant that can cause IgE‐mediated urticaria/anaphylaxis. The cross‐reactivity of patients with IgE‐mediated CHX allergy with other disinfectants, which share structural similarities with CHX like polyhexanide (polyhexamethylene biguanide; PHMB), alexidine (ALX), or octenidine (OCT), is unknown.

Methods

Forty‐four patients with anaphylaxis or urticaria upon CHX exposure and positive skin prick test (SPT) and/or positive CHX ImmunoCAP test (Phadia TFS, Uppsala, Sweden) were recruited. IgE to the biguanide and/or hexamethylene structure was investigated with PHMB ImmunoCAP (n = 32) and by basophil activation tests (BAT) with CHX and ALX (n = 37). Inhibition tests of CHX and PHMB ImmunoCAPs by CHX, ALX, PHMB, and OCT were performed.

Results

IgE reactivity to PHMB as surrogate marker for biguanide/hexamethylene reactivity was detected in 5/32 sera. Seven of 37 patients showed a positive BAT with ALX, but only under optimized conditions. Binding to CHX ImmunoCAP was inhibited by ALX in 1/32 sera, and binding to PHMB was blocked by ALX (1/5) and by OCT in another (1/5). In SPT, 9/10 patients were positive for CHX and 3 of them with ALX (only at highest concentration at 5 mg/mL). A further patient reacted primarily with OCT and showed IgE cross‐reactivity with CHX, ALX, and PHMB.

Conclusion

The IgE response to CHX seems polyclonal. The chloroguanide ending of CHX is the main epitope for the IgE and is suitable as screening assay to detect CHX reactivity. IgE‐reactivities with the biguanide or hexamethylene components of other disinfectants (ALX, PHMB) can be detected by SPT, PHMB ImmunoCAP, and ALX‐BAT in 15%‐33% of CHX‐allergic patients.
A critical review of the pathophysiology of thrombotic complications and clinical practice recommendations for thromboprophylaxis in pregnant patients with COVID‐19
Authors: D’Souza Rohan , Malhamé Isabelle , Teshler Lizabeth , Acharya Ganesh , Hunt Beverley J. , McLintock Claire
Published: July 2020

Those who are infected with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome‐related CoronaVirus‐2 are theoretically at increased risk of venous thromboembolism during self‐isolation if they have reduced mobility or are dehydrated. Should patients develop coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) pneumonia requiring hospital admission for treatment of hypoxia, the risk for thromboembolic complications increases greatly. These thromboembolic events are the result of at least two distinct mechanisms – microvascular thrombosis in the pulmonary system (immunothrombosis) and hospital‐associated venous thromboembolism. Since pregnancy is a prothrombotic state, there is concern regarding the potentially increased risk of thrombotic complications among pregnant women with COVID‐19. To date, however, pregnant women do not appear to have a substantially increased risk of thrombotic complications related to COVID‐19. Nevertheless, several organizations have vigilantly issued pregnancy‐specific guidelines for thromboprophylaxis in COVID‐19. Discrepancies between these guidelines reflect the altruistic wish to protect patients and lack of high‐quality evidence available to inform clinical practice. Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) is the drug of choice for thromboprophylaxis in pregnant women with COVID‐19. However, its utility in non‐pregnant patients is only established against venous thromboembolism, as LMWH may have little or no effect on immunothrombosis. Decisions about initiation and duration of prophylactic anticoagulation in the context of pregnancy and COVID‐19 must take into consideration disease severity, outpatient vs inpatient status, temporal relation between disease occurrence and timing of childbirth, and the underlying prothrombotic risk conferred by additional comorbidities. There is currently no evidence to recommend the use of intermediate or therapeutic doses of LMWH in thromboprophylaxis, which may increase bleeding risk without reducing thrombotic risk in pregnant patients with COVID‐19. Likewise, there is no evidence to comment on the role of low‐dose aspirin in thromboprophylaxis or of anti‐cytokine and antiviral agents in preventing immunothrombosis. These unanswered questions are being studied within the context of clinical trials.
Low expression of mitofusin 1 is associated with mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis in porcine somatic cell nuclear transfer embryos
Authors: Park Mi‐Ryung , Hwang In‐Sul , Kwak Tae‐Uk , Lim Ji‐Hyun , Hwang Seongsoo , Cho Seong‐Keun
Published: July 2020

Mitochondria are necessary for the transition from oocyte to embryo and for early embryonic development. Mitofusin 1 is the main mediator of mitochondrial fusion and homeostasis. We investigated Mitofusin 1 expression levels in porcine somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) embryos. The rate of blastocyst formation in SCNT embryos was reduced significantly compared with that of parthenogenetic activation embryos. SCNT embryos showed significantly decreased Mitofusin 1 expression and mitochondrial membrane potential, while exhibiting increased reactive oxygen species and apoptosis. Mitochondrial functional changes were observed in the SCNT embryos and may be correlated with low levels of Mitofusin 1 to negatively affect development.
Humanoid robots in higher education: Evaluating the acceptance of Pepper in the context of an academic writing course using the UTAUT
Authors: Guggemos Josef , Seufert Sabine , Sonderegger Stefan
Published: July 2020

This study investigates the acceptance of social robots by higher education students in the social sciences. Pepper, a humanoid social robot from SoftBank Robotics, provided a sample of its capabilities during a first semester, large‐scale, university course, “Introduction to academic writing.”From this course, 462 freshmen participated in our survey. The unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) acts as the conceptual framework, and partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS‐SEM) as the method for data analysis. The four perceived characteristics—trustworthiness, adaptiveness, social presence and appearance—all predict the intention to use the robot for learning purposes; anxiety regarding making mistakes in handling the robot and about privacy issues are not significant predictors. An importance‐performance map analysis indicated adaptiveness as the robot’s most important characteristic for predicting student behavioural intention. Overall, however, the study shows that students do not have the intention to rely on social robots for learning purposes at the current level of state‐of‐the‐art technology: behavioural intention reaches only 36.6% of the theoretical maximum.
Clinical outcomes and risk factors for severe COVID‐19 in patients with haematological disorders receiving chemo‐ or immunotherapy
Authors: Fox Thomas A. , Troy‐Barnes Ethan , Kirkwood Amy A. , Chan Wei Yee , Day James W. , Chavda Selina J. , Kumar Emil A. , David Kate , Tomkins Oliver , Sanchez Emilie , Scully Marie , Khwaja Asim , Lambert Jonathan , Singer Mervyn , Roddie Claire , Morris Emma C. , Yong Kwee L. , Thomson Kirsty J. , Ardeshna Kirit M.
Published: July 2020

Haematology patients receiving chemo‐ or immunotherapy are considered to be at greater risk of COVID‐19‐related morbidity and mortality. We aimed to identify risk factors for COVID‐19 severity and assess outcomes in patients where COVID‐19 complicated the treatment of their haematological disorder. A retrospective cohort study was conducted in 55 patients with haematological disorders and COVID‐19, including 52 with malignancy, two with bone marrow failure and one immune‐mediated thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). COVID‐19 diagnosis coincided with a new diagnosis of a haematological malignancy in four patients. Among patients, 82% were on systemic anti‐cancer therapy (SACT) at the time of COVID‐19 diagnosis. Of hospitalised patients, 37% (19/51) died while all four outpatients recovered. Risk factors for severe disease or mortality were similar to those in other published cohorts. Raised C‐reactive protein at diagnosis predicted an aggressive clinical course. The majority of patients recovered from COVID‐19, despite receiving recent SACT. This suggests that SACT, where urgent, should be administered despite intercurrent COVID‐19 infection, which should be managed according to standard pathways. Delay or modification of therapy should be considered on an individual basis. Long‐term follow‐up studies in larger patient cohorts are required to assess the efficacy of treatment strategies employed during the pandemic.
IL‐1β/IL‐1R1 signaling induced by intranasal lipopolysaccharide infusion regulates alpha‐Synuclein pathology in the olfactory bulb, substantia nigra and striatum
Authors: Niu Haichen , Wang Qian , Zhao Weiguang , Liu Jianxin , Wang Deguang , Muhammad Bilal , Liu Xiaoyu , Quan Ning , Zhang Haoyu , Zhang Fang , Wang Yong , Li Haiying , Yang Rongli
Published: July 2020

Olfactory dysfunction is one of the early symptoms seen in Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, the mechanisms underlying olfactory pathology that impacts PD disease progression and post‐mortem appearance of alpha‐Synuclein (α‐Syn) inclusions in and beyond olfactory bulb in PD remain unclear. It has been suggested that environmental toxins inhaled through the nose can induce inflammation in the olfactory bulb (OB), where Lewy body (LB) is the first to be found, and then, spread to related brain regions. We hypothesize that OB inflammation triggers local α‐Syn pathology and promotes its spreading to cause PD. In this study, we evaluated this hypothesis by intranasal infusion of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) to induce OB inflammation in mice and examined cytokines expression and PD‐like pathology. We found intranasal LPS‐induced microglia activation, inflammatory cytokine expression and α‐Syn overexpression and aggregation in the OB via interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β)/IL‐1 receptor type I (IL‐1R1) dependent signaling. In addition, an aberrant form of α‐Syn, the phosphorylated serine 129 α‐Syn (pS129 α‐Syn), was found in the OB, substantia nigra (SN) and striatum 6 weeks after the LPS treatment. Moreover, 6 weeks after the LPS treatment, mice showed reduced SN tyrosine hydroxylase, decreased striatal dopaminergic metabolites and PD‐like behaviors. These changes were blunted in IL‐1R1 deficient mice. Further studies found the LPS treatment inhibited IL‐1R1‐dependent autophagy in the OB. These results suggest that IL‐1β/IL‐1R1 signaling in OB play a vital role in the induction and propagation of aberrant α‐Syn, which may ultimately trigger PD pathology.
RETRACTED: Role of the MUC1‐C oncoprotein in the acquisition of cisplatin resistance by urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Shigeta Keisuke , Hasegawa Masanori , Kikuchi Eiji , Yasumizu Yota , Kosaka Takeo , Mizuno Ryuichi , Mikami Shuji , Miyajima Akira , Kufe Donald , Oya Mototsugu
Published: July 2020

Mucin 1 C‐terminal subunit (MUC1‐C) has been introduced as a key regulator for acquiring drug resistance in various cancers, but the functional role of MUC1‐C in urothelial carcinoma (UC) cells remains unknown. We aimed to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the acquisition of cisplatin (CDDP) resistance through MUC1‐C oncoprotein in UC cells. MUC1‐C expression was examined immunohistochemically in tumor specimens of 159 UC patients who received CDDP‐based perioperative chemotherapy. As a result, moderate to high MUC1‐C expression was independently associated with poor survival in UC patients. Using human bladder cancer cell lines and CDDP‐resistant (CR) cell lines, we compared the expression levels of MUC1‐C, multiple drug resistance 1 (MDR1), the PI3K‐AKT‐mTOR pathway, and x‐cystine/glutamate transporter (xCT) to elucidate the biological mechanisms contributing to the acquisition of chemoresistance. MUC1‐C was strongly expressed in CR cell lines, followed with MDR1 expression via activation of the PI3K‐AKT‐mTOR pathway. MUC1‐C also stabilized the expression of xCT, which enhanced antioxidant defenses by increasing intracellular glutathione (GSH) levels. MUC1 down‐regulation showed MDR1 inhibition along with PI3K‐AKT‐mTOR pathway suppression. Moreover, it inhibited xCT stabilization and resulted in significant decreases in intracellular GSH levels and increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. The MUC1‐C inhibitor restored sensitivity to CDDP in CR cells and UC murine xenograft models. In conclusion, we found that MUC1‐C plays a pivotal role in the acquisition of CDDP resistance in UC cells, and therefore the combined treatment of CDDP with a MUC1‐C inhibitor may become a novel therapeutic option in CR UC patients.
Evolutionary patterns in the geographic range size of Atlantic Forest plants
Authors: Leão Tarciso C. C. , Lughadha Eimear Nic , Reich Peter B.
Published: July 2020

Species’ geographic range size is arguably the single most important predictor of vulnerability to extinction and a key metric in ecology. Despite this, patterns of specific variation in range size and their underlying reasons are still poorly understood. For example, hypotheses on how evolutionary history affects range size have scarcely been tested. To address these questions, we focused on Brazil's Atlantic Forest flora, one of the most species‐rich in the world, relatively well‐known and highly threatened. We investigated whether and how lineages’ diversification rate, number of species and age are associated with species’ geographic range size. We estimated the extent of occurrence and area of occupancy of each of 13 283 plant species native to the Atlantic Forest region based on over 500 000 unique records. We used phylogenetic least squares and logistic regressions to analyze how the predictors affect the geographic range size. On average, the higher the diversification rate and number of species in the lineage, the smaller the species range size and the higher the proportion of species with vulnerably small range size. Lineage age showed no clear effect on average range size. The results support our expectations that dynamics of diversification and taxonomic richness considerably affect the species range size. Finally, this work reveals poorly known patterns of range size variation and some of the mechanisms driving variation in range size and vulnerability to extinction.
Do firms lease to hedge? CEO risk‐taking and operating lease intensity
Authors: Devos Erik , Li He
Published: July 2020

Operating leases are used extensively for financing, but their ability to separate ownership and use also creates hedging opportunities. We investigate whether firms recognize such opportunities by examining the relation between chief executive officer (CEO) risk‐taking incentives and the use of operating leases. Consistent with firms using operating leases to hedge, we find higher CEO risk‐taking incentives lower operating lease intensity. To address endogeneity, we use the adoption of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards 123R as an exogenous shock to option compensation, dynamic panel generalized method of moments, simultaneous equations, and change regressions. Our results are robust to placebo and alternative tests.
Making sense of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in the light of evolution
Authors: Karlsson Green Kristina , Stenberg Johan A. , Lankinen Åsa
Published: July 2020

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a holistic approach to combat pests (including herbivores, pathogens, and weeds) using a combination of preventive and curative actions, and only applying synthetic pesticides when there is an urgent need. Just as the recent recognition that an evolutionary perspective is useful in medicine to understand and predict interactions between hosts, diseases, and medical treatments, we argue that it is crucial to integrate an evolutionary framework in IPM to develop efficient and reliable crop protection strategies that do not lead to resistance development in herbivores, pathogens, and weeds. Such a framework would not only delay resistance evolution in pests, but also optimize each element of the management and increase the synergies between them. Here, we outline key areas within IPM that would especially benefit from a thorough evolutionary understanding. In addition, we discuss the difficulties and advantages of enhancing communication among research communities rooted in different biological disciplines and between researchers and society. Furthermore, we present suggestions that could advance implementation of evolutionary principles in IPM and thus contribute to the development of sustainable agriculture that is resilient to current and emerging pests.
The renin‐angiotensin system in cutaneous hypertrophic scar and keloid formation
Authors: Hedayatyanfard Keshvad , Haddadi Nazgol‐Sadat , Ziai Seyed Ali , Karim Hossein , Niazi Feizollah , Steckelings Ulrike Muscha , Habibi Behnam , Modarressi Ali , Dehpour Ahmad‐Reza
Published: July 2020

Hypertrophic scar and keloid are two types of fibroproliferative conditions that result from excessive extracellular matrix production. The underlying pathological mechanism is not entirely clear. Activation of the renin‐angiotensin system (RAS) is associated with fibrosis in various organs. RAS components including angiotensin II (Ang II), angiotensin AT1 and AT2 receptors, and angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) are expressed in the skin and act independently from the plasma RAS. AT1 receptors, which are usually the dominating receptor subtype, promote fibrosis and scar formation, while AT2 receptors inhibit the aforementioned AT1 receptor‐coupled effects. Elevated angiotensin II (Ang II) levels acting on the AT1 receptor contribute to skin scar formation through increased expression of inflammatory factors such as interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), angiogenic factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and fibrinogenic factors such as transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), while at the same time suppressing the anti‐fibrotic tissue inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinase (TIMPs). First, small clinical trials have provided evidence that inhibition of the ACE/Ang II/ AT1 receptor axis may be effective in the treatment of hypertrophic scars/keloids. This review provides a detailed overview of the current literature on the RAS in skin, wound healing and scar formation and discusses the translational potential of targeting this hormonal system for treatment and prevention of hypertrophic scars and keloids.
A Mixed‐method Study of Individual, Couple, and Parental Functioning During the State‐regulated COVID‐19 Lockdown in Spain
Authors: Günther‐Bel Cristina , Vilaregut Anna , Carratala Eduard , Torras‐Garat Sonia , Pérez‐Testor Carles
Published: July 2020

During the recent COVID‐19 outbreak in Spain, we explored the individual and relational well‐being of people confined together with their partners and/or children during the first 3 weeks of state‐regulated lockdown. Adults 18 years or older (N = 407) completed an online survey that included demographic, household, and employment information along with standardized measures of psychological distress (State‐Trait Anxiety and Beck Depression) and relationship functioning—either the Dyadic Adjustment Scale if there were no children in the household or a Basic Family Relations Evaluation Questionnaire (CERFB) measuring conjugal, parental, and coparental functions. Qualitative analyses of responses to an open‐ended question about perceived changes in couple or family dynamics during lockdown revealed nine specific themes comprising two overarching categories: relational improvement and deterioration. The overall prevalence of improvement themes (61.7%) exceeded deterioration themes (41.0%), with increased (re)connection and conflict atmosphere cited most often. Quantitative analyses found elevated levels of state anxiety but not trait anxiety or depression during lockdown. Consistent with the qualitative results, couples having no children at home reported high levels of dyadic adjustment, but with children present CERFB parental functioning exceeded conjugal functioning, a pattern sometimes associated with child triangulation into adult conflicts. Although correlates of psychological distress (e.g., unemployment, perceived economic risk) were relatively stable across subgroups, predictors of relationship functioning varied substantially with household/parental status (e.g., telecommuting and employment facilitated conjugal functioning only for couples with children).
Loss and Resilience in the Time of COVID‐19: Meaning Making, Hope, and Transcendence
Authors: Walsh Froma
Published: July 2020

This article addresses the many complex and traumatic losses wrought by the COVID‐19 pandemic. In contrast to individually based, symptom‐focused grief work, a resilience‐oriented, systemic approach with complex losses contextualizes the distress and mobilizes relational resources to support positive adaptation. Applying a family resilience framework to pandemic‐related losses, discussion focuses on the importance of shared belief systems in (1) meaning‐making processes; (2) a positive, hopeful outlook and active agency; and (3) transcendent values and spiritual moorings for inspiration, transformation, and positive growth. Practice guidelines are offered to facilitate adaptation and resilience.
Inherent trait differences explain wheat cultivar responses to climate factor interactions: New insights for more robust crop modelling
Authors: Eller Franziska , Hyldgaard Benita , Driever Steven M. , Ottosen Carl‐Otto
Published: July 2020

Climate change predictions foresee a combination of rising CO2, temperature and altered precipitation. Effects of single climatic variables are well defined, but the importance of combined variables and genotypic effects is less known, although pivotal for assessing climate change impacts, for example, with crop growth models. This study provides developmental and physiological data from combined climatic factors for two distinct wheat cultivars (Paragon and Gladius), as a basis to improve predictions for climate change scenarios. The two cultivars were grown in controlled climate chambers in a fully factorial setup of atmospheric CO2 concentration, growth temperature and watering regime. The cultivars differed considerably in their developmental rate, response pattern and the parameters responsible for most of their variation. The growth of Paragon was linked to climatic effects on photosynthesis and mainly affected by temperature. Paragon was overall more negatively affected by all treatment combinations compared to Gladius. Gladius was mostly affected by watering regime. The cultivars' acclimation strategies to climate factors varied significantly. Thus, considering a single factor is an oversimplification very likely impacting the accuracy of crop growth models. Intraspecific crop variation could help understanding genotype by environment variation. Cultivars with high phenotypic plasticity may have greater resilience against climatic variability.
Effect of intense pulsed light on Lactobacillus bulgaricus exopolysaccharide yield, chemical structure and antioxidant activity
Authors: Ge Xinyu , Ma Fengming , Zhang Baiqing
Published: July 2020

In this work, IPL technology was used for improving the production of exopolysaccharide (EPS) in Lactobacillus bulgaricus. The effects of fluence per pulse, pulse number and pulse distance were investigated. Through GC–MS, Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR), 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) study the influence on EPS primary chemical structure and surface morphology. The antioxidant activity of EPS was evaluated by DPPH, Fe2+ chelating and reducing power assays. The findings demonstrate that IPL could be a novel environment protection method for improving the production of EPS. The research results provide a theoretical basis for whether IPL is a new type of environmental protection method and can be used to improve EPS production.
Multidisciplinary consensus recommendations from a European network for the diagnosis and practical management of patients with incontinentia pigmenti
Authors: Bodemer C. , Diociaiuti A. , Hadj‐Rabia S. , Robert M.P. , Desguerre I. , Manière M.‐C. , de la Dure‐Molla M. , De Liso P. , Federici M. , Galeotti A. , Fusco F. , Fraitag S. , Demily C. , Taieb C. , Valeria Ursini M. , El Hachem M. , Steffann J.
Published: July 2020

Background

Incontinentia pigmenti (IP) is a rare multisystemic X‐linked dominant genetic disorder characterized by highly diagnostic skin lesions. The disease can be misdiagnosed in infants, and complications affecting the eyes and/or the brain can be severe. Our objective was to highlight the urgency of an appropriate diagnosis and management strategy, as soon as the first symptoms appear, and the need for a well‐codified monitoring strategy for each child.

Methods

An in‐depth literature review using a large number of databases was conducted. The selection criteria for articles were literature review articles on the disease, case series and retrospective studies based on the disease, clinical studies (randomized or not) on treatment, articles discussing patient care and management (treatment, diagnosis, care pathways), and recommendations. The research period was from 2000 until 2018. A group of multidisciplinary experts in IP management was involved, issued from different healthcare providers of the European Network for Rare Skin Diseases (ERN‐Skin). The final recommendations have been submitted to two patient representative associations and to a general practitioner and a neonatal specialist prior to their finalization.

Results and conclusion

The diagnosis of IP must be promptly performed to detect potential extracutaneous manifestations, thus allowing the timely implementation of specific therapeutic and monitoring strategies. Eye involvement can be a therapeutic urgency, and central nervous system (CNS) involvement requires a very rigorous long‐term follow‐up. Assessments and patient support should take into account the possible co‐occurrence of various symptoms (including motor, visual and cognitive symptoms).
Clinical and biological impact of the exposome on the skin
Authors: Passeron T. , Krutmann J. , Andersen M.L. , Katta R. , Zouboulis C.C.
Published: July 2020

The skin exposome is defined as the totality of environmental exposures over the life course that can induce or modify various skin conditions. Here, we review the impact on the skin of solar exposure, air pollution, hormones, nutrition and psychological factors. Photoageing, photocarcinogenesis and pigmentary changes are well‐established consequences of chronic exposure of the skin to solar radiation. Exposure to traffic‐related air pollution contributes to skin ageing. Particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide cause skin pigmentation/lentigines, while ozone causes wrinkles and has an impact on atopic eczema. Human skin is a major target of hormones, and they exhibit a wide range of biological activities on the skin. Hormones decline with advancing age influencing skin ageing. Nutrition has an impact on numerous biochemical processes, including oxidation, inflammation and glycation, which may result in clinical effects, including modification of the course of skin ageing and photoageing. Stress and lack of sleep are known to contribute to a pro‐inflammatory state, which, in turn, affects the integrity of extracellular matrix proteins, in particular collagen. Hormone dysregulation, malnutrition and stress may contribute to inflammatory skin disorders, such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, acne and rosacea.
Effects of long‐term restricted feeding followed by full feeding on growth, processing yield, fillet proximate composition, and economics of market‐size hybrid catfish, ♀ Ictalurus punctatus × ♂ Ictalurus furcatus
Authors: Li Menghe H. , Wise David J. , Kumar Ganesh , Bosworth Brian G. , Mischke Charles C. , Aarattuthodiyil Suja , Rutland William , Lucas Penelope M.
Published: July 2020

A pond study examined the effects of long‐term restricted feeding followed by full feeding on production and processing characteristics, fillet composition, and economics of market‐size hybrid catfish, ♀ Ictalurus punctatus × ♂ Ictalurus furcatus. Market‐size fish averaging 674 g were stocked into 24 ponds (0.04 ha) at 17,300 fish/ha. Fish were either fed once or twice weekly for 4 months or once or twice weekly for 4 months followed by 15‐ or 30‐day daily full feeding. All fish were fed to apparent satiation on days fed. Fish fed once weekly for 4 months gained about 30% weight and those fed twice weekly gained 70% weight. Feeding once or twice weekly for 4 months followed by 15‐ or 30‐day full feeding did not significantly affect carcass yield compared with the initial sample (overwintered fish). At least 30 days of full feeding were needed to restore fillet yield to normal levels. Based on economic analysis and processing yield, it is suggested fish fed once weekly should be given full feed for 15 days or so to improve fillet yield before harvest. Fish fed twice weekly can be harvested with or without 15 days full feeding.
Leader–follower risk orientation incongruence, intellectual stimulation, and creativity: A configurational approach
Authors: Liu Haiyang , Dust Scott B. , Xu Minya , Ji Yueting
Published: July 2020

Prior work suggests that follower and leader risk orientation is positively associated with follower creativity. We suggest that this view is oversimplified and propose that follower creativity can be stimulated when leader and follower have diverging risk orientations. We, therefore, apply a configurational approach to creativity, evaluating varying combinations of leader and follower risk orientation on follower creativity. Across two field studies, we demonstrate that (a) follower creativity increases as leaders’ and followers’ risk orientations become more discrepant (i.e., incongruent); (b) follower creativity is higher when leader–follower dyads are congruent at moderate levels of risk orientation compared to congruence at the extremes (i.e., low and high levels); (c) follower‐experienced intellectual stimulation mediates the relationship between leader–follower risk orientation incongruence and congruence and follower creativity; and (d) that leader authority openness moderates the indirect effect of leader–follower risk orientation incongruence on creativity via follower‐experienced intellectual stimulation. Theoretical and practical implications specific to creativity and leader–follower relationships are discussed.
Experiences of front‐line nurses combating coronavirus disease‐2019 in China: A qualitative analysis
Authors: Liu Yu‐E , Zhai Zhong‐Chang , Han Yan‐Hong , Liu Yi‐Lan , Liu Feng‐Ping , Hu De‐Ying
Published: July 2020

Objective

To explore the experiences of front‐line nurses combating the coronavirus disease‐2019 epidemic.

Design and Sample

Fifteen front‐line nurses caring for COVID‐19 patients were recruited from two hospitals in Wuhan, China from January 26 to February 5, 2020. Data were collected through semi‐structured individual interviews and analyzed using standard qualitative methods.

Results

Four theme categories emerged from the data analysis: (a) “Facing tremendous new challenges and danger”; (b) “Strong pressure because of fear of infection, exhaustion by heavy workloads and stress of nursing seriously ill COVID‐19 patients”; (c) “Strong sense of duty and identity as a healthcare provider”; (d) “Rational understanding of the epidemic—the nurses believed that the epidemic would soon be overcome and would like to receive disaster rescue training.”

Conclusions

Although the intensive rescue work drained front‐line nurses, both physically and emotionally, they showed a spirit of dedication and felt a responsibility to overcome this epidemic. Their experiences provide useful insights into implementing a safer public health emergency rescue system in preparation for future outbreaks of infectious diseases. Specifically, psychological support and humanistic care should be provided to front‐line nurses to maintain their well‐being, and nationwide emergency rescue training and disaster education should be implemented.
Agile Stage‐Gate Management (ASGM) for physical products
Authors: Salvato John J. , Laplume Andre O.
Published: July 2020

We present a qualitative study of Agile Stage‐Gate Management (ASGM),: a hybrid new product development methodology that combines Agile and Stage‐Gate Management (SGM) approaches for the coordination of new product development. When applied to software projects, Agile is expected to deliver reduced development times, improved resource utilization, and greater financial success. We examine whether ASGM practitioners realize similar outcomes in a sample of global firms developing complex electro‐mechanical products (e.g., automobile components, railway propulsion systems, and medical devices). Our grounded theory approach articulates an understanding of ASGM through extensive interviews of experienced professionals. Our thematic analysis supports many expected benefits (i.e., speed to market, innovation enabling), but also does not encourage others, and reveals new pitfalls that deserve recognition (i.e., resource inefficiency). ASGM is not a panacea for all product development. Overall, physical product firms adopting this method can expect reduced development times and higher levels of innovation but will expend more resources to complete development projects, but a dichotomy exists. Physical product developers using ASGM experience a negative impact on project resource efficiency due to the need for dedicated resources, frequent product demonstrations, and duplicative management structures.
Retinopathy in adults with hypertension and diabetes mellitus in Western Tanzania: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Woodward Richmond , Mgaya Evarista , Mwanansao Christopher , Peck Robert N. , Wu Alan , Sun Grace
Published: July 2020

Objective

Little is known about the retinal manifestations of arterial hypertension (HTN) and diabetes mellitus (DM) in Western Tanzania and how to maximise the utilisation of scarce eye health resources. To address this, we determined the prevalence of hypertensive and diabetic retinopathy (DR), associated risk factors and relevant patient knowledge.

Methods

Adults with HTN or DM attending outpatient clinics at Bugando Medical Center (BMC) from June to August 2017 were enrolled. Fundus photographs were obtained, and data were collected on blood pressure (BP), body mass index (BMI), blood sugar, visual acuity (VA) and responses to questions about the effects of HTN and DM on the eye.

Results

A total of 180 persons were screened. When only individuals with DR were considered, bivariate regression found systolic BP was significantly associated with severity of DR (P = 0.034). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis using the maximum Youden index revealed the optimum cut‐off using duration of DM to predict any DR was 8 years (AUC = 0.75, 95% CI 0.65–0.85). Fewer persons with HTN were aware of the effect of high BP on the eye (61.6%) than persons with DM who were aware of the effect of high blood sugar on the eye (74.4%) (P = 0.048).

Conclusion

Efforts should be made to vigorously treat HTN among adults with DM and refer adults with duration of DM of 8 years or more for a dilated retinal examination. Additional efforts should be made to promote awareness of the sight threatening potential of HTN in resource‐limited settings.
Postinjury performance for differing humeral stress fracture locations in the racing thoroughbred
Authors: Henderson Brianne , Bramlage L. R. , Koenig Judith , Monteith Gabrielle
Published: July 2020

Objective

To assess the influence of humeral stress fracture location on the time to return to racing and postinjury performance of thoroughbred racehorses.

Study design

Retrospective study (1992‐2015).

Sample population

Thoroughbred racehorses (n = 131) that presented for lameness with the sole diagnosis of humeral stress fractures in the lame limb, as determined by scintigraphy or radiology.

Methods

Sex, fracture site, age, starts, earnings, and average earnings per race were examined for differences in pre–stress and post–stress fracture diagnosis for the entire population as well as individual stress fracture locations (general linear model, χ2tests). Pre–stress and post–stress fracture performance for the three stress fracture locations were assessed: (1) earnings pre–stress and post–stress fracture (Kruskal‐Wallis one‐way analysis of variance), (2) average earnings per start prefracture, and (3) average earnings per start postfracture (Wilcoxon signed‐rank tests).

Results

Stress fracture locations were caudodistal (n = 36), craniodistal (n = 43), and caudoproximal (n = 52). One hundred ten of 131 horses raced postfracture, and 54 of 131 horses raced prefracture. Age at injury was 43.61 months caudodistal, 33.48 months caudoproximal, and 36.65 months craniodistal. Horses returned to race at a median of 244 days (range, 218‐272). Postfracture earnings per start were greater for caudodistal vs caudoproximal (P= .04).

Conclusion

There were no differences in prefracture earnings or fracture site and sex or limb affected. Return‐to‐race time varied by location but not significantly. Differences in earnings preinjury and postinjury were not significant. Horses with a stress fracture at the caudodistal location earned significantly more compared with horses with a stress fracture at the caudoproximal location after they returned to race.

Clinical significance

Thoroughbred racehorses have a good prognosis for return to racing regardless of fracture location.
Chapter 7: An Investigation Into Sports Coaches’ Twitter Use
Authors: Harvey Stephen , Atkinson Obidiah , Hyndman Brendon P.
Published: July 2020

Purpose: To investigate sports coaches’ Twitter use. Methods: Coaches (N = 310) from 22 countries and a range of sports completed an online survey. Quantitative survey data were analyzed descriptively and triangulated with qualitative data using Leximancer (Brisbane, Queensland, Australia) text mining software. Results: Most participants reported using Twitter for ≥3 years and accessed the platform multiple times per day. More than half participants agreed that using Twitter had positively impacted both their own confidence as a coach and their athletes/players/team’s performance. The strongest overall themes from the qualitative data revealed that Twitter helped sports coaches improve their practices through the sharing of information, connecting with other coaches, and building positivity into their interactions when supporting players. Discussion/Conclusion: Sports coaches perceive Twitter to be a highly valuable platform to network, collaborate, gain access to information, and share ideas and resources.
High-sensitivity in vivo contrast for ultra-low field magnetic resonance imaging using superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles
Authors: Waddington David E. J. , Boele Thomas , Maschmeyer Richard , Kuncic Zdenka , Rosen Matthew S.
Published: July 2020

Superparamagnetic nanoparticles will boost image contrast on portable MRI scanners operating at low magnetic fields.
Integrated cascade nanozyme catalyzes in vivo ROS scavenging for anti-inflammatory therapy
Authors: Liu Yufeng , Cheng Yuan , Zhang He , Zhou Min , Yu Yijun , Lin Shichao , Jiang Bo , Zhao Xiaozhi , Miao Leiying , Wei Chuan-Wan , Liu Quanyi , Lin Ying-Wu , Du Yan , Butch Christopher J. , Wei Hui
Published: July 2020

We designed a cascade nanozyme with both superoxide dismutase– and catalase-mimicking activities for anti-inflammation therapy.
GADL1 is a multifunctional decarboxylase with tissue-specific roles in β-alanine and carnosine production
Authors: Mahootchi Elaheh , Cannon Homaei Selina , Kleppe Rune , Winge Ingeborg , Hegvik Tor-Arne , Megias-Perez Roberto , Totland Christian , Mogavero Floriana , Baumann Anne , Glennon Jeffrey Colm , Miletic Hrvoje , Kursula Petri , Haavik Jan
Published: July 2020

Mice lacking the enzyme GADL1 have reduced levels of carnosine and anserine peptides and increased oxidative stress markers.
Supplemental Material: Forearc magmatic evolution during subduction initiation: Insights from an Early Cretaceous Tibetan ophiolite and comparison with the Izu-Bonin-Mariana forearc
Authors: Dai Jin-Gen , al. et
Published: July 2020

Detailed analytical methods in Text S1, major- and trace-element compositions of clinopyroxene, orthopyroxene, and amphibole, whole-rock major and trace elements, Sr-Nd isotopic data, and zircon U-Pb and Lu-Hf data in Tables S1–S7.
Double valve involvement: papillary fibroelastoma in a patient with severe mitral and aortic valve regurgitation
Authors: Ajiboye Oyintayo , Racoma Jan Michael , Hussain Kifah , Mba Benjamin
Published: July 2020

Cardiac papillary fibroelastoma is a benign neoplasm that arises in the endocardium. It commonly presents as an incidental finding on transthoracic echocardiography or as emboli to the coronary, cerebral or pulmonary vasculature. Clinical manifestations described in the literature have generally been related to a sequelae of the associated embolic phenomenon of these lesions. Valve regurgitation is less common with papillary fibroelastoma and when found, it is not known to cause severe regurgitation requiring valve replacement. We report a case of papillary fibroelastoma in a patient with severe mitral and aortic valve regurgitation in association with mobile masses requiring double valve replacement. This patient managed initially as infective endocarditis with severe double valve regurgitation, was found to have valvular masses concernng for papillary fibroelastoma and subsequently confirmed on pathology.