bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multigenerational classrooms in higher education: equity and learning with technology
Authors: Lowell Victoria Lynn , Morris Jr James Michael
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss potential challenges learners from different generations may have with current instructional methods using educational technologies in the classroom. The authors hope to create awareness to help improve equity in learning opportunities and assist educators in understanding the needs of multigenerational classrooms.

Design/methodology/approach

In a narrative review of the literature, the authors present the current findings of the literature on generations in higher education and concerns for equity in learning opportunities.

Findings

It is commonplace in undergraduate programs for learners of multiple generations to attend classes together and research has shown that historical context and generational experiences affect the values, attitudes and learning preferences of each generation. Therefore, higher education institutions should be aware of the demographic profile of their students, as well as the external populations from which they may recruit students, to ensure they are cognizant of the needs of these populations and can provide equality in learning opportunities.

Practical implications

To assist with the needs of this changing student population, university leaders must consider generational characteristics to ensure equity in learning opportunity. Specifically, university leaders and educators in the classrooms will need to adapt and adjust for a changing student population providing instruction that meets the needs of multiple generations of learners, often within one classroom.

Originality/value

Often when we think of diversity in the classroom we think of age, gender, race or even culture. Today we must add diversity in generations. Unlike other equity issues in education such as access (McLaughlin, 2010), educators may not be considering the equity in the design of their instruction to provide equitable learning experiences based on a learners’ knowledge and skills established by their experiences with technology. The lack of knowledge and skills a learner has with technology based on their experiences may create barriers to their ability to understand and complete instructional content involving technology (Wager, 2005). To ensure all learners can be successful, educators should strive to provide equality in learning opportunities when designing instruction including technology.
Investigating collective sensemaking of a major project success
Authors: Brunet Maude , Forgues Daniel
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate a case of collective sensemaking about the project success of the multifunctional amphitheater of Quebec (Canada).

Design/methodology/approach

For this explorative and qualitative research, the authors started from the post-mortem document and complemented their comprehension with six semi-structured interviews with the main project actors and other public documents regarding this project.

Findings

According to the respondents, the main success factors of this project can be attributed to: a clear governance structure; proven project management and construction methods; the use of emerging collaborative practices in construction (such as building information modeling (BIM) and lean construction); an adapted policy for procurement; as well as a code of values and ethics shared by all stakeholders.

Originality/value

The sensemaking perspective has been scarcely mobilized in project management studies, emerging from a constructivist view of reality and being sensitive about material-discursive practices. This exploratory study explores a case of collective sensemaking of a major project success and suggests avenues for major and megaprojects research. Lessons learned and implications for practice are also outlined. The conclusion allows a synthesis and an opening to consider how practitioners and researchers can build on this (and other successful) case(s) for future projects and research.
Quality of life in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Sionti Vasiliki , Papageorgiou Giorgos , Peschos Dimitrios , Charalambous George , Kotrotsiou Evangelia , Christodoulides Pavlos , Zakopoulou Victoria , Gouva Mary
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate certain social and psychological parameters and to compare them with basic demographic information, such as the gender and the education, of patients suffering from Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional study of Type 2 diabetic patients was conducted. In total, 200 patients with T2DM were enrolled in the study. Psychological factors were assessed with questionnaires, including the Symptom Checklist 90-R (SCL-90-R), the Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), the Life Orientation Test-Revised (LOT-R) and the Cardiac Anxiety Questionnaire (CAQ). The associations of psychological with socio-demographic factors were assessed through logistic regression analyses.

Findings

Women patients had higher levels of heart-focused anxiety psychopathology than men, and therefore, women tend to avoid activities that burden the heart. Men patients had a significantly higher index of physical functionality than women. No differences were recorded by the SCL-90R questionnaire between men and women. For the patients with elementary education, lower levels of mental health (SF-36-MCS) were observed.

Originality/value

The chronicity of the disease aggravates the psychopathology of the patients thereby creating adverse impact not only on health but also on efforts for compliance. A personalized approach by the health professionals could contribute in addressing the psychological factors that accompany T2DM.
Innovative airport 4.0 condition-based maintenance system for baggage handling DCV systems
Authors: Koenig Frank , Found Pauline Anne , Kumar Maneesh
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the findings of a recent study conducted with the objective of addressing the problem of failure of baggage carts in the high-speed baggage tunnel at Heathrow Terminal 5 by the development of an innovative condition-based maintenance (CBM) system designed to meet the requirements of 21st century airport systems and Industry 4.0.

Design/methodology/approach

An empirical experimental approach to this action research was taken to install a vibration condition monitoring pilot test in the north tunnel at Terminal 5. Vibration data were collected over a 6-month period and analysed to find the threshold of good quality tyres and those with worn bearings that needed replacement. The results were compared with existing measures to demonstrate that vibration monitoring could be used as a predictive model for CBM.

Findings

The findings demonstrated a clear trend of increasing vibration velocity with age and use of the baggage cart wheels caused by wheel mass unbalanced inertia that was transmitted to the tracks as vibration. As a result, preventative maintenance is essential to ensure the smooth running of airport baggage. This research demonstrates that a healthy wheel produces vibration of under 60 mm/s whereas a damaged wheel measures up to 100 mm/s peak to peak velocity and this can be used in real-time condition monitoring to prevent baggage cart failure. It can also run as an autonomous system linked to AI and Industry 4.0 airport logic.

Originality/value

Whilst vibration monitoring has been used to measure movement in static structures such as bridges and used in rotating machinery such as railway wheels (Tondon and Choudhury, 1999); this is unique as it is the first time it has been applied on a stationary structure (tracks) carrying high-speed rotating machinery (baggage cart wheels). This technique has been patented and proven in the pilot study and is in the process of being rolled out to all Heathrow terminal connection tunnels. It has implications for all other airports worldwide and, with new economic sensors, to other applications that rely on moving conveyor belts.
A study of the activities and impact of the Asian Productivity Organisation (APO)
Authors: Adebanjo Dotun , Mann Robin , Mohammad Musli , Bareduan Salleh Ahmad
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the activities of the Asian Productivity Organisation (APO). The study identifies the various roles and activities of the APO and evaluates how well it performs in these roles. The study also investigates the impacts of the APO on the productivity initiatives of National Productivity Organisations (NPOs) in 16 Asian countries. These productivity initiatives are important in enhancing productivity performance and national competitiveness in the countries of interest.

Design/methodology/approach

The study collects data from stakeholders in the NPOs in 16 countries. A Likert-scale questionnaire was used to collect data from two types of respondents – NPO CEOs and NPO professional/technical staff. Data were analysed by comparing the responses across the participating countries.

Findings

The result shows that there was general satisfaction with the mission, vision and strategic direction of the APO. With respect to the operational performance of the organisation, the study showed that there were some differences in perception of the performance of the APO although the overall perception was positive.

Practical implications

The study provides insights into the top management of the APO with regards to deciding on the future direction of the organisation and, in particular, the ways in which it understands and supports the varied requirements of the different NPOs.

Originality/value

Organisations such as the APO dedicate significant resources into supporting NPOs, and by extension productivity-related commercial operations, in several countries. It is important to understand how these services are perceived and experienced in these countries, and a definitive study to examine this has not previously been carried out.
Retailers targeting children with set collection promotions: the child’s perspective
Authors: Thyne Maree , Robertson Kirsten , Watkins Leah , Casey Olly
Published: January 2019

Purpose

Children are familiar with retail outlets (especially supermarkets) and the reality of shopping from an increasingly early age. In turn, retailers are actively engaging this young market, targeting them through various promotional strategies. One popular strategy adopted by grocery retailers is giveaway collectible set items. The purpose of this paper is to question the ethicality of such campaigns, within the framework of vulnerable consumers by examining children’s opinions of the campaigns and the supermarkets who run them, and the drivers of children’s involvement in the campaigns.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative focus groups were employed with 67 children aged five to ten years. Focus groups were made up of children in similar age groups to cluster responses by age and allow for comparisons. Thematic analysis was undertaken and responses were coded into themes.

Findings

Children were initially driven to collect through promotional advertising or because a third party offered them a collectible. The drivers for subsequent collecting differed between age groups, with younger children more focussed on themes around play and older children (seven and above) collecting through habit, because it was a craze amongst their peers and therefore the collections became items of social currency. Children’s perceptions of the supermarkets motivations also differed by age. Younger children thought supermarkets gave the collectibles away as “gifts” for altruistic reasons. The older children articulated a clear understanding of the economic motives of the organisation including: to attract children to their stores, to encourage pester power and to increase revenue by encouraging customers to buy more. The older children questioned the ethics of the collectible campaigns, referring to them as scams.

Research limitations/implications

The findings extend the important discussion on the nature of children’s vulnerability to advertising by showing that the children’s vulnerability stretches beyond their ability to understand advertising intent. Despite older children in the present study being cognisant of retailers’ intentions they were still vulnerable to the scheme; the embeddedness of the scheme in the social lives of the children meant they lacked agency to opt out of it. Further, the finding that the scheme transcended boundaries in the children’s lives, for instance, being associated with social currency at school, highlights the potential negative impact such schemes can have on the well-being of children.

Originality/value

Until now, research has investigated the motivations that children have to collect, but previous studies have focussed on collections which have been determined by the children. This paper presents the opinions and perceptions of the children who are directly targeted by commercial organisations to collect and raises concerns around the ethicality of such schemes.
Colour of food as a vector for children’s well-being
Authors: Ezan Pascale , Pantin-Sohier Gaelle , Lancelot-Miltgen Caroline
Published: January 2019

Purpose

A product colour plays an important role in consumers’ preferences. The purpose of this paper is to highlight the impact of the three-dimensional character of colour (brightness, saturation and vividness) on children’s behaviour towards a food product and as a source of well-being.

Design/methodology/approach

Two experiments were conducted. Study 1 was conducted with 62 children and used four visuals of syrup presenting two colours (red/green) and two variations of vividness (vivid/dim). Study 2 was conducted with 70 children and used four pictures of stewed apples and four pictures of pouches to test the influence of each dimension of colour on children’s preferences for the product and the product packaging.

Findings

Results show that the three-dimensional character of colour plays an important role in children’s gustatory inferences and well-being.

Research limitations/implications

The study is restricted to one food product (in each study) habitually consumed by children. Other products could be investigated to show how colour can contribute to children’s well-being.

Practical implications

The paper addresses the issue of well-being as a potential brand-positioning element.

Social implications

The paper suggests new avenues to use the brightness/saturation or vividness of a product or packaging colour as a potential element to arouse positive sensations that generate children’s well-being even when the product is not a preferred one.

Originality/value

This works initiates creative thinking concerning the impact of a product colour on children consumers.
The transport service triad: a key unit of analysis
Authors: Andersson Dan , Dubois Anna , Eriksson Victor , Hulthén Kajsa , Holma Anne-Maria
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to identify and discuss the transport service triad (TST) as a key unit of analysis to understand the operations and conditions for change in freight transport systems at the micro level, i.e. at the level of analysis where business decisions and change interaction take place.

Design/methodology/approach

The theoretical framing is rooted in the IMP approach and in the literature on triads. A case study approach is used to illustrate the TST by analyzing a case involving a wholesaler of installation products, tools and supplies, a main construction company and a transport service provider.

Findings

The paper shows how the connections between the business relationships in the TST, influenced by connections to relationships outside the triad, impact on the efficiency in freight transport. The paper illustrates how analysis of TSTs can be applied in micro-level studies of change in freight transport systems and in supply networks.

Research limitations/implications

The triadic approach is instrumental to understand change in the transport system because it includes all relevant parties and relationships of concern, as well as the logic framing of their actions. However, while arguing that TSTs are generic to their nature, each TST is unique and needs to be identified and analyzed in its specific context.

Practical implications

The suggested framework may contribute to an understanding of the embeddedness of transport services in supply/business networks. The framework may support the development of new ways of operating and creating value for customers and offering sustainable transport solutions.

Originality/value

From the transport policy makers’ perspective, micro-level analysis is important to understand behavioral adjustments to new policies.
Artistic orientation, financial literacy and entrepreneurial performance
Authors: Purnomo Boyke Rudy
Published: January 2019

Purpose

This study aims to examine the relationship between artistic orientation and entrepreneurial performance and how other central entrepreneurial resources, namely, entrepreneurial orientation and financial literacy, affect this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

Regulatory focus theory was used to develop the model. A survey of 375 small creative business entrepreneurs was conducted in Yogyakarta, Indonesia, and a hierarchical linear regression was used for data analysis.

Findings

The results reveal a positive correlation between artistic orientation, entrepreneurial orientation, financial literacy and entrepreneurial performance. Therefore, artistic orientation affects a creative firm’s financial and nonfinancial performance. In addition, artistic orientation and financial literacy provide a positive influence on the overall performance of a creative venture. However, the interaction effect of entrepreneurial orientation and financial literacy on the artistic orientation – performance relationship – is invisible

Practical implications

This research provides guidance on how creative firms may focus on the acquisition, development and protection of useful resources, namely, artistic orientation and financial literacy

Originality/value

This research is the first systematic empirical test evaluating the relationship between artistic orientation and entrepreneurial performance
Network curse effects: research based on listed manufacturing enterprises in China
Authors: Li Dehui , Fan Libo , Yang Zhenning
Published: January 2019

Purpose

Although the importance of network embeddedness attracted much attention in recent years, the interpretations of the underlying mechanism almost focus on the positive effects and neglect the potential negative aspects. This paper aims to use Chinese listed manufacturing enterprises, in the perspective of network embeddedness, to analyze whether resource curse effects exist in strategic networks of enterprises.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper examines the resource curse effect that exists in enterprise networks through analysis of enterprise’s total factors productivity compared with those of its industry peers with different degrees of embeddedness. This paper then uses several different methods, such as clustered fixed and random effect model, core and peripheral model, and generalized method of moments estimation in endogenous checks, to detect network curse effects and reveal three potential mechanisms, including overinvestment, extra maintaining cost and innovation extrusion.

Findings

This paper finds that excessive network embeddedness hinders continuous improvement of productivity, which is derived from three mechanisms: excessive network embeddedness makes information redundancy among enterprises, and the imitate-follow effect makes excessive investment seriously; enterprises have to encounter more problems and difficulties, such as information coordination and benefit negotiation, to maintain network relationship, which leads to extra cost; enterprises with abundant network resources may tend to more emphasis on marketable operational abilities, resulting in resource decentralization and less investment on innovation, which is finally not beneficial to productivity improvement in the long run.

Originality/value

Compared with previous literatures, this paper not only enriches the understanding of negative mechanisms in enterprise`s network embeddedness, but also unfolds the inconsistency of network embeddedness effects in practice and finds new evidence that the two types of network embeddedness are consistent in certain circumstances.
Corporate social responsibility and sustainable management of solid wastes and effluents in Lagos megacity Nigeria
Authors: Raimi Lukman , Adelopo AbdulGaniyu Omobolaji , Yusuf Hassan
Published: January 2019

Purpose

This study aims to empirically investigate the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainable management of wastes and effluents (SMWE) in Lagos Megacity.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper adopts a quantitative research method, specifically the use of a Web-survey technique for eliciting responses from a cross-section of companies affiliated to the Lagos Chambers of Commerce and Industry (LCCI). From a target population of 2,300 companies, a sample of 92 companies was drawn using the sample determination formula of Parten (1950). The 92 sampled companies were randomly administered Web-based questionnaires through their official emails. Finally, the 56 responses received from the participating companies (corresponding to 61 per cent response rate) were analysed electronically and the results presented using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Findings

The results show strong positive relationships between CSR and advocacy on waste and effluents (0.7), environmental impact response (0.7), environmental sustainability policy (0.6) and preventive negative impact (0.6) with P < 0.05. However, weak positive relationships exist between CSR and monitoring mechanisms (0.3) and adequacy of infrastructure for wastes and pollutants management (0.4). Overall, there is a significant positive relationship between CSR and sustainable management of solid wastes and effluents in the sampled companies in Lagos.

Research limitations/implications

The research is limited to Lagos Megacity because it is the industrial and commercial hub of Nigeria. Besides, there are several industrial associations in Lagos, but the selected association was the LCCI with 56 sampled companies.

Practical implications

The research supports and validates the theory of planned behaviour (TPB), which explicates that performance behaviour of organisations is influenced by the behavioural intention and behavioural control. However, behavioural intention of organisations may be carried out, abandoned or revised based on ever changing circumstances or contexts.

Originality/value

The study bridges the gap between theory and practice of environmental CSR by enriching the understanding of academics and practitioners on CSR and environmental sustainability relationships in Lagos Megacity.
Review shows substantial variations in the use of medication for infant bronchiolitis between and within countries
Authors: Korppi Matti , Mecklin Minna , Heikkilä Paula
Published: January 2019

Aim

Meta‐analyses of randomised controlled trials on infant bronchiolitis do not support medication. We summarised the current data and evaluated the real‐life use of medication for infants treated for bronchiolitis in hospitals, including paediatric wards, emergency departments and paediatric intensive care units (PICU).

Methods

We searched PubMed for studies published from 2009 to 2018 that provided data on the real‐life use of adrenaline, salbutamol, corticosteroids or antibiotics for infants hospitalised for bronchiolitis.

Results

The review identified 10 such studies and showed substantial variations in medication for infant bronchiolitis between different countries and even between different hospitals in the same country. A multi‐centre study including 38 hospitals in eight countries reported that a mean of 29% infants admitted for bronchiolitis received drugs without any research‐based evidence on their effectiveness, ranging from 9% in Australia and New Zealand to 58% in Spain and Portugal. In addition, an American prospective multi‐centre study of 16 PICUs reported that bronchodilators were used by a mean of 60%, corticosteroids by 33% and antibiotics by 63%. Other studies reported that higher ages and a history of wheezing increased the use of medication.

Conclusion

There were substantial variations in bronchiolitis treatment between, and within, different countries.
Anatomy of the smooth muscle structure in the female anorectal anterior wall: convergence and anterior extension of the internal anal sphincter and longitudinal muscle
Authors: Muro S. , Tsukada Y. , Harada M. , Ito M. , Akita K.
Published: January 2019

Aim

The anatomy of the region between the vagina and anal canal plays an essential role when performing a proctectomy for low‐lying tumours. However, the anatomical characteristics of this area remain unclear. The purpose of the present study was to clarify the configuration, and both lateral and inferior extensions, of the muscle bundles in the anorectal anterior wall in females.

Methods

Using cadaveric specimens, macroscopic anatomical and histological evaluations were conducted at the anatomy department of our institute. Macroscopic anatomical specimens were obtained from six female cadavers. Histological specimens were obtained from eight female cadavers.

Results

The smooth muscle fibres of the internal anal sphincter and longitudinal muscle extended anteriorly in the anorectal anterior wall of females and the muscle bundles showed a convergent structure. The anterior extending smooth muscle fibres merged into the vaginal smooth muscle layer, distributed subcutaneously in the vaginal vestibule and perineum and spread to cover the anterior surface of the external anal sphincter and the levator ani muscle. Relatively sparse space was observed in the region anterolateral to the rectum on histological analysis.

Conclusion

Smooth muscle fibres of the rectum and vagina are intermingled in the median plane, and there is relatively sparse space in the region anterolateral to the rectum. Therefore, when detaching the anorectal canal from the vagina during proctectomy, an approach from both the lateral sides should be used.
Factors associated with onychomycosis in nail psoriasis: a multicenter study in Pakistan
Authors: Tabassum Saadia , Rahman Atiya , Awan Safia , Jabeen Kausar , Farooqi Joveria , Ahmed Bilal , Masood Sadia , Memon Manzor , Rashid Ajmal , Soomro Muhammad R. , Samdani Azam J. , Naveed Shaheen , Kapadia Naseema
Published: January 2019

Background

Treatment of psoriatic nail disease is challenging, and dystrophic psoriatic nails can get secondarily infected with fungi.

Methods

This 2‐year, matched case–control study was conducted at three tertiary care centers of Karachi, Pakistan. Data were collected from patients with nail psoriasis as cases with age‐ and gender‐matched controls. A detailed questionnaire was filled for all study participants. Nail Psoriasis Severity Index (NAPSI) scoring tool was used to assess dystrophy. Fungal infection was inferred by nail clippings for fungal hyphae and culture.

Results

Among 477 participants, 159 cases and 318 controls completed the study. Their mean age was 44 years, and one‐third were female. Fungal culture positivity was statistically significant in cases as compared to the control group (P < 0.001). The most frequent species identified wasCandida parapsilosisin both cases and controls. Body mass index,NAPSIscoring, socioeconomic status, elevated diastolic blood pressure, smoking status psoriasis among first‐degree relatives, and longstanding disease of more than 10 years were significant factors in univariable analysis. Multivariable logistic regression identified independent factors like low to middle socioeconomic status, history of psoriasis in first‐degree relative, current smoker, and obesity.

Conclusion

We found nearly one‐third of the psoriatic patients with nail involvement having concomitant fungal infection. We emphasize that nail clipping for fungal smear and culture should be advised to those patients with coexisting factors found significant in our study results. This opinion can be incorporated in psoriasis management guidelines for improving treatment of psoriatic nails.
A certain invariance property of BLUE in a whole‐genome regression context
Authors: Gianola Daniel , Fernando Rohan L. , Garrick Dorian J.
Published: January 2019

A curious result from mixed linear models applied to genome‐wide association studies was expanded. In particular, a model in which one or more markers are considered as fixed but are allowed to contribute to the covariance structure by treating such markers as random as well was examined. The best linear unbiased estimator of marker effects is invariant with respect to whether those markers are employed in constructing a genomic relationship matrix or are ignored, provided marker effects are uncorrelated with those not being tested. Also, the implications of regarding some marker effects as fixed when, in fact, these possess a non‐trivial covariance structure with those declared as random were examined.
Smiling asleep: A study of happy emotional expressions during adult sleep
Authors: Clé Marion , Maranci Jean‐Baptiste , Weyn Banningh Sebastian , Lanfranchi Jade , Vidailhet Marie , Arnulf Isabelle
Published: January 2019

Human foetuses and newborns smile first during sleep, before they smile while awake and interacting with caregivers. Whether smiling persists during adult sleep, and expresses inner joy, is yet unknown. Smiles were looked for during night‐time video‐polysomnography combined with electromyography of the zygomatic and orbicularis oculi muscles in 100 controls, 22 patients with sleepwalking and 52 patients with rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behaviour disorder. Autonomous reactions (heart rate and level of vasoconstriction) and the presence of rapid eye movements were examined during smiles and laughs. On visual examination of the face video clips synchronous with zygomatic contraction, 8% of controls smiled while asleep (7% in REM sleep and 1% in non‐REM sleep). Some patients with sleepwalking also smiled and laughed during N2 sleep and N3 parasomnia. Half of the patients with REM sleep behaviour disorder smiled and one‐third laughed, mostly during REM sleep. The 173 happy faces included mild smiles (24.8%), open‐mouth smiles (29.5%) and laughs (45.7%). More than half of the smiles were the Duchenne (genuine) type, including an active closure of the eyelids. Approximately half of the smiles and laughs were temporally associated with rapid eye movements. There was no increased heart rate variability during smiles and laughs. Two scenic behaviours including smiles and laughs suggested that the happy facial expression was associated with a happy dreaming scenario. Smiling and laughing occasionally persist during adult sleep. There are several lines of evidence suggesting that these happy emotional expressions reflect a true inner mirth.
Clinical mycology in Latin America and the Caribbean: A snapshot of diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities
Authors: Falci Diego R. , Pasqualotto Alessandro C.
Published: January 2019

Despite the existence of endemic mycoses in Latin America and the Caribbean, in addition to a large population of patients at risk for invasive mycoses, the capability of medical centres to perform a proper diagnosis in mycology has not been studied in the region. Moreover, availability of antifungal drugs in the region is unknown. Here, we report the results of a survey involving 129 centres in 24 countries. Only 9% of centres would have the potential to apply for the minimum standards in mycology, as determined by the European Confederation of Medical Mycology. There is an urgent need to improve diagnostic conditions in Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as providing access to safer and more efficacious antifungal drugs.
Six‐month clinical outcomes of non‐surgical periodontal treatment with antibiotics on apoptosis markers in aggressive periodontitis
Authors: Aral Kübra , Aral Cüneyt A. , Kapila Yvonne
Published: January 2019

Objective

Extrinsic and intrinsic pathways of apoptosis are involved in generalized aggressive periodontitis (GAgP). The aim of this study was to evaluate 6‐month clinical outcomes relative to apoptosis of one‐stage full‐mouth disinfection (OSFMD) and systemic antibiotics (SA) in the treatment of GAgP.

Methods

Twenty‐six patients with GAgP were included in this prospective follow‐up intervention study. Gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) was collected from patients at baseline and 3 and 6 months after periodontal therapy, which consisted of OSFMD and SA (amoxicillin and metronidazole, 500 mg each for 7 days). The levels of p53, caspase‐3, TNF‐α, TRAIL, IL‐1β, and IL‐10 in GCF were measured via ELISA.

Results

Periodontal parameters were improved at 3 and 6 months compared to baseline (p < 0.05). p53 was decreased up to 6 months (p < 0.05). TRAIL, TNF‐α, and IL‐10 were similar at baseline and 3 and 6 months. Caspase‐3 and IL‐1β were decreased at 3 months (p < 0.05), but similar at 6 months compared to baseline (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Although OSFMD plus SA improves clinical periodontal parameters up to 6 months, this treatment protocol differentially regulates the apoptosis markers caspase‐3 at 3 months and p53 at 6 months without influencing TRAIL in GCF.
Catholic devotion in the Americas
Authors: Maldonado‐Estrada Alyssa
Published: January 2019

This article surveys scholarly contributions to the study of Catholic devotional practice in the Americas, tracing how historical, sociological, and ethnographic studies have examined the relationship between devotion, gender, and embodiment. Scholars have explored how the saints have been brought to bear on the conditions of daily life including immigration and migration, suffering, and social change. Women's devotion has been at the center of studies of gender and lived religion, as scholars explore the creative and tensile ways, women's religious practice has exceeded the institutional authority and architectural boundaries of the church. This essay ends with a provocation about how the study of men and masculinities can challenge the portrayal of devotion as an exclusively feminine domain and complicate the binary of (male) clerical authorities/women that pervades studies of religious practice and materiality.
Comparison of gluteus medius and minimus activity during gait in people with hip osteoarthritis and matched controls
Authors: Zacharias Anita , Pizzari Tania , Semciw Adam I. , English Daniel J. , Kapakoulakis Theo , Green Rodney A.
Published: January 2019

The gluteal muscles act as stabilizers of the hip joint and are important for the maintenance of hip function. Atrophy and weakness of the gluteal muscles have been identified in people with hip OA, but it is not known whether these muscles also exhibit altered activity patterns. The aim of this study was to compare gluteal muscle activity in people with hip OA and healthy older adults. Fine‐wire intramuscular electrodes were inserted into the three segments of gluteus medius (GMed) and two segments of gluteus minimus (GMin) in 20 participants with unilateral hip OA and 20 age‐ and gender‐matched controls. Electromyographic activity of these muscle segments was examined during walking along a 10 m walkway. Peak amplitude, average amplitude, and time to peak were compared between groups during the stance phase of the gait cycle. During early stance, the OA group demonstrated a higher burst of activity in posterior GMin (P = 0.02) and trends toward a higher peak in anterior GMin. Both groups displayed peak activity in anterior GMin in the early stance phase in contrast to previous reports in young adults. This early burst of muscle activity was more pronounced with increasing severity of OA. No differences were identified in GMed activity. While altered GMin activity is associated with aging, these changes were more pronounced in participants with hip OA. To reduce disability associated with hip OA, future rehabilitation programs should consider targeted gait strategies and exercises for GMin.
The impact of sugarcane filter cake on the availability of P in the rhizosphere and associated microbial community structure
Authors: Arruda Bruna , Rodrigues Marcos , Gumiere Thiago , Richardson Alan E. , Andreote Fernando Dini , Soltangheisi Amin , Gatiboni Luciano Colpo , Pavinato Paulo Sergio
Published: January 2019

This study aimed to evaluate the interaction between filter cake (FC), and phosphorus fertilizers with differing solubility on the growth and P nutrition of sugarcane. Effects of soil amendment with FC on different soil P fractions and influence on microbial community structure in the rhizosphere were also assessed. Two glasshouse experiments were conducted with completely randomized block designs. The first experiment evaluated rates of FC using a factorial design (5 × 2): 0, 2.5, 5, 10 and 15 g FC kg−1 soil applied as either broadcast in bulk soil or in the planting furrow. The second experiment used a factorial design (2 × 3): without and with FC (5 g kg−1 soil, dry basis), both without P (NP) and with P supplied as either triple superphosphate (TSP) or as rock phosphate (RP), both at the rate of 78.4 mg kg−1 based on total P. Microbial community structure was determined using TRFLP and dynamics of soil P by Hedley fractionation. Filter cake applied at increasing rates in the absence of P was effective in increasing shoot growth and P uptake by plant, particularly when applied to bulk soil as compared to furrow application. Also, FC improved P uptake and increased the availability of labile inorganic P in the rhizosphere and modified the structure of fungal and bacterial communities, whereas only bacterial and archaea communities were influenced by P fertilizer use. Filter cake was more effective when combined with RP, with increased growth and P utilization and thus can be considered as a feasible and practical option for farmer use in substitution to TSP, a more expensive source.
The novel HLA‐B*40:317 allele was identified in a leukemia patient during high‐resolution HLA typing
Authors: Xie Wen , Li Wang‐Xia , Yang Ru
Published: January 2019

HLA‐B*40:317 differs from HLA‐A*40:06:01:01 by one nucleotide exchange at position 344(G>T) with an amino exchange.
Direct‐acting antiviral agents for liver transplant recipients with recurrent genotype 1 hepatitis C virus infection: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Liu Jiaye , Ma Buyun , Cao Wanlu , Li Meng , Bramer Wichor M. , Peppelenbosch Maikel P. , Pan Qiuwei
Published: January 2019

Background

Comprehensive evaluation of safety and efficacy of different combinations of direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) in liver transplant recipients with genotype 1 (GT1) hepatitis C virus (HCV) recurrence remains limited. Therefore, we performed this systematic review and meta‐analysis in order to evaluate the clinical outcome of DAA treatment in liver transplant patients with HCV GT1 recurrence.

Methods

Studies were included if they contained information of 12 weeks sustained virologic response (SVR12) after DAA treatment completion as well as treatment related complications for liver transplant recipients with GT1 HCV recurrence.

Results

We identified 16 studies comprising 885 patients. The overall pooled estimate proportion of SVR12 was 93% (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.89, 0.96), with moderate heterogeneity observed (τ2 = 0.01, P < 0.01, I2=75%). High tolerability was observed in liver transplant recipients reflected by serious adverse events (sAEs) with pooled estimate proportion of 4% (95% CI: 0.01, 0.07; τ2 = 0.02, P < 0.01, I2 = 81%). For subgroup analysis, a total of five different DAA regimens were applied for treating these patients. Sofosbuvir/Ledipasvir (SOF/LDV) led the highest pooled estimate SVR12 proportion, followed by Paritaprevir/Ritonavir/Ombitasivir/Dasabuvir (PrOD), Daclatasvir (DCV)/Simeprevir (SMV) ± Ribavirin (RBV), and SOF/SMV ± RBV, Asunaprevir (ASV)/DCV. There was a tendency for favoring a higher pooled SVR12 proportion in patients with METAVIR Stage F0‐F2 of 97% (95% CI: 0.93, 0.99) compared to 85% (95% CI: 0.79, 0.90) for stage F3‐F4 (P < 0.01). There was no significant difference between LT recipients treated with or without RBV (P = 0.23).

Conclusions

Direct‐acting antiviral treatment is highly effective and well‐tolerated in liver transplant recipients with recurrent GT1 HCV infection.
The Effect of Respiratory Muscle Training on Aerobic and Anaerobic Strength in Adolescent Taekwondo Athletes
Authors: Koç Murat , Saritaş Nazmi
Published: January 2019

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of respiratory muscle training on respiratory functions and aerobic and anaerobic strength in adolescent taekwondo athletes. Between the ages of 12–17, 32 taekwondo athletes participated in the study. Participating athletes were randomly divided into two groups as ‘’experimental group’’ (n=15) and ‘’control group’’ (n=17) as to similar characteristics. The experimental group was given respiratory muscle training for 30 min with an adjustable respiratory pressure device for 3 days a week through 8 weeks period. No exercise was given to the control group with the device. A 20 meter shuttle run test was performed for aerobic capacity and a vertical jump test was performed for anaerobic strength. The inspiratory pressure was measured. After the respiratory muscle training, statistically significant difference was found in the maximum oxygen consumption capacities (MaxVO2) and anaerobic strength values (p<0.05). In the measurements of respiratory function, forced vital capacity (FVC), slow vital capacity (SVC) and maximal voluntary ventilation (MVV), significant difference was found in favor of the experimental group (p<0.05). In the measurements of inspiration pressure, the results of pressure, strength, flow, volume and energy values were significantly different in favor of the experimental group (p<0.05). Respiratory muscle training increased the aerobic and anaerobic strength capacity of the experimental group in comparison with the control group. Some of the exercises that were used in the treatment of COPD are thought to facilitate the athletes’ respiration control.
A First-in-Human Safety, Tolerability, and Pharmacokinetics Study of Benapenem in Healthy Chinese Volunteers
Authors: Zhao Cai-Yun , Lv Yuan , Zhu Yan , Wei Min-Ji , Liu Meng-Ying , Ji Xi-Wei , Kang Zi-Sheng , Xia Ya-Hong , Tian Ji-Hong , Ma Yan , Liu Yan
Published: January 2019

The objective of this trial was to investigate the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics (PK) of benapenem administered by single or multiple intravenous infusions in healthy Chinese volunteers. The trial was divided into 3 parts.
Intranasal Immunization with the Commensal
Streptococcus mitis
Confers Protective Immunity against Pneumococcal Lung Infection
Authors: Shekhar Sudhanshu , Khan Rabia , Schenck Karl , Petersen Fernanda Cristina
Published: January 2019

Streptococcus pneumoniae
causes various diseases worldwide. Current pneumococcal vaccines protect against a limited number of more than 90 pneumococcal serotypes, accentuating the urgent need to develop novel prophylactic strategies.
S. pneumoniae
and the commensal
Streptococcus mitis
share immunogenic characteristics that make
S. mitis
an attractive vaccine candidate against
S. pneumoniae
. In this study, we evaluated the potential of
S. mitis
and its mutant expressing pneumococcal capsule type 4 (
S. mitis
TIGR4cps) to induce protection against
S. pneumoniae
lung infection in mice. Our findings show that intranasal vaccination with
S. mitis
protects against
S. pneumoniae
strains D39 (serotype 2) and TIGR4 (serotype 4) in a serotype-independent fashion, which is associated with enhanced antibody and T cell responses. Furthermore,
S. mitis
TIGR4cps conferred additional protection against
S. pneumoniae
TIGR4, but not against D39. The findings highlight the potential of
S. mitis
to generate protection that combines both serotype-independent and serotype-specific responses.
Topoisomerase III Acts at the Replication Fork To Remove Precatenanes
Authors: Lee Chong M. , Wang Guanshi , Pertsinidis Alexandros , Marians Kenneth J.
Published: January 2019

Topological entanglement between daughter chromosomes has to be reduced to exactly zero every time an
E. coli
cell divides. The enzymatic agents that accomplish this task are the topoisomerases.
E. coli
possesses four topoisomerases. It has been thought that topoisomerase IV is primarily responsible for unlinking the daughter chromosomes during DNA replication. We show here that topoisomerase III also plays a role in this process and is specifically localized to the replisome, the multiprotein machine that duplicates the cell’s genome, in order to do so.
Prevention of Surface-Associated Calcium Phosphate by the Pseudomonas syringae Two-Component System CvsSR
Authors: Fishman Maxwell R. , Filiatrault Melanie J.
Published: January 2019

Bacteria are capable of precipitating and dissolving minerals. We previously reported the characterization of the two-component system CvsSR in the plant-pathogenic bacterium
Pseudomonas syringae
. CvsSR responds to the presence of calcium and is important for causing disease. Here, we show that CvsSR controls the ability of the bacterium to prevent calcium phosphate precipitation on the surface of cells. We also identified a carbonic anhydrase and transporter that modulate formation of surface-associated calcium precipitates. Furthermore, our results demonstrate that the ability of the bacterium to swarm is controlled by the formation and dissolution of calcium precipitates on the surface of cells. Our study describes new mechanisms for microbially induced mineralization and provides insights into the role of mineral deposits on bacterial physiology. The discoveries may lead to new technological and environmental applications.
The Market View on conscientious objection: overvalued
Authors: Card Robert F
Published: January 2019

Ancell and Sinnott-Armstrong argue that medical providers possess wide freedoms to determine the scope of their practice, and therefore, prohibiting almost any conscientious objections is a bad idea. They maintain that we could create an acceptable system on the whole which even grants accommodations to discriminatory refusals by healthcare professionals. Their argument is premised upon applying a free market mechanism to conscientious objections in medicine, yet I argue their Market View possesses a number of absurd and troubling implications. Furthermore, I demonstrate that the fundamental logic of their main argument is flawed. Thinkers who wish to address the issues raised in this debate in general or by discriminatory conscience objections in particular should avoid the Market View and instead envisage theories that assess the reasons underlying conscientious refusals in medicine.