bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors associated with relapses in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis
Authors: Xie Yao , Tian Ziyu , Han Fang , Liang Shibing , Gao Ying , Wu Dahua
Published: June 2020

Background:

The relapse is character of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. The therapeutic goal is to reduce the risk of relapse. Factors associated with relapses can help to manage and prevent relapses. In addition, patients and doctors all pay attention to it. However, there are differences between studies. Our aim is to summarize factors associated with relapses in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS).

Methods:

PubMed, EMBASE, Web of science, Cochrane library, CNKI, Wanfang, SinoMed, and VIP were searched to identify risk factors about relapses in RRMS, which should be in cohort or case-control studies. This article was reported according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). The quality of studies was evaluated by the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS). Meta-analysis, subgroup and sensitivity analyses, and publication bias were all performed with Stata. This research has been registered on the international prospective register of systematic reviews (PROSPERO, CRD42019120502).

Results:

43 articles were included. Infection, postpartum period, risk gene, stress, and vitamin D were risk factors for relapses in RRMS. Pregnancy period was the protective factor. Among those, infection increased the risk of relapses in infection period (relative risk [RR], 2.07 [confidence interval (CI), 1.64 to 2.60]). Women in the postpartum period increased the risk of relapses compared with women before pregnancy (RR, 1.43 [CI, 1.19 to 1.72]), or women in pregnancy period (RR, 2.07 [CI, 1.49 to 2.88]). Women in the pregnancy period decreased the risk of relapses (RR, 0.56 [CI, 0.37 to 0.84]) compared with women before pregnancy. However, fewer studies, heterogeneity, and sample size were the limitations.

Conclusion:

It is reliable to adopt results about infection, pregnancy period, and postpartum period.
The effects of gastrodin injection on hypertension
Authors: Qian Lichao , Yan Shihai , Li Yizhuo , Wu Lihua , Zheng Yawei , Wang Yixuan , Fang Zhuyuan
Published: June 2020

Background:

Hypertension is a common chronic disease and poses a huge burden to health care systems. Recent studies have shown that gastrodin injection (GI) has a potential supplementary therapeutic effect on hypertension.

Objectives:

To systematically assess the efficacy and safety of GI in treatment of hypertension.

Methods:

Systematic search was conducted on 7 databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Wanfang database, China biomedical literature service system, VIP Chinese Sci-tech journal database and China national knowledge internet). The retrieval time was from the establishment of database to February 15, 2020. Two researchers independently selected literature, extracted data and evaluated the risk of bias in the study. The methodological quality was evaluated with Cochrane handbook. The meta-analysis was performed with Stata 14.0 software.

Results:

Thirteen studies were included in this study involving 1525 patients. Compared with using conventional therapy alone, GI combined with conventional therapy can decrease systolic blood pressure (weighted mean difference [WMD] −6.67, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −10.30, −3.04. number of estimates [k] = 9, I
2 = 89.3%), diastolic blood pressure (WMD −4.52, 95% CI: −7.79, −1.26. k = 9, I
2 = 92.3%), and improve the clinical efficacy (relative risk [RR] 1.18, 95% CI: 1.10, 1.26. k = 6, I
2 = 12.6%).

Conclusions:

The current evidence showed that GI combined with conventional therapy can improve systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and clinical efficacy. GI can become a supplementary treatment for hypertension.
The evaluation of a nurse-led hypertension management model in an urban community healthcare
Authors: Miao Jian-Hong , Wang Hai-Shan , Liu Na
Published: June 2020

Background:

Hypertension is a silent disease of the masses with an increasing prevalence and poor control rates. This study aims to establish and test the efficacy of a nurse-led hypertension management model in the community.

Methods:

A single-blind, randomized controlled trial was performed. 156 hypertensive patients with uncontrolled blood pressure were equally and randomly allocated into 2 groups. Patients in the study group received a 12-week period of hypertension management. Blood pressure, self-care behaviors, self-efficacy, and satisfaction were assessed at the start of recruitment, 12 and 16 weeks thereafter.

Results:

After the intervention, blood pressure of patients in the study group had greater improvement in self-care behaviors and a higher level of satisfaction with the hypertensive care compared to the control group (both P < .05).

Conclusions:

The nurse-led hypertension management model is feasible and effective for patients with uncontrolled blood pressure in the community.
Intestinal lymphangiectasia in a 3-month-old girl
Authors: Fattorusso Antonella , Pieri Elena Sofia , Dell’Isola Giovanni Battista , Prontera Paolo , Mencaroni Elisabetta , Stangoni Gabriela , Esposito Susanna
Published: June 2020

Rational:

Intestinal lymphangiectasia (IL) is a rare disease characterized by dilatation and rupture of intestinal lymphatic channels leading to protein-losing enteropathy. IL is classified as primary and secondary types.

Patient concerns:

A 3-month-old girl born at term from vaginal delivery with an APGAR score of 10/10 and birth weight of 4.310 g (>97° percentile) was admitted to our hospital because of increasing abdominal tenderness and diarrhea. At first examination, she presented an abdominal circumference of 60 cm, edema of the lower extremities and vulva, and facial dysmorphisms (hypertelorism, flat nasal bridge, flat mid-face).

Diagnosis:

Once admitted, ultrasonography showed a large amount of ascites, while blood laboratory investigations revealed severe hypoproteinemia, hypoalbuminemia and hypogammaglobulinemia. Lymphoscintigraphy with 99m-Tc-nanocolloid demonstrated abnormal leakage of the tracer in the abdomen as evidence of IL. To detect a possible secondary, exams were performed and demonstrated positive antibody titres for CMV-IgM and IgG in blood and CMV-DNA positivity in blood, urine, saliva, maternal milk, and gastric and duodenal biopsies. Genetic investigations identified the genomic variant c.472C>T of the CCBE1 gene, coding for a protein variant (p.Arg158Cys), in homozygosity.

Interventions:

Total parenteral nutrition was started and continued for a total of 18 days, then gradually bridged by enteral nutrition with a special formula. In addition, antiviral therapy for CMV infection was added first with intravenous ganciclovir for 14 days, resulting in the disappearance of blood viral load after 7 days of therapy and then with valganciclovir per os for another 30 days.

Outcomes:

The clinical course of the child gradually improved. A few days after starting treatments, lower extremities and vulvar edema disappeared, and abdominal circumference gradually decreased to a stable value of 38 cm, without any ultrasonographic signs of ascites left. Moreover, serum albumin and IgG rose to normal values after 3 months (4.3 g/dL and 501 mg/dL, respectively).

Lessons:

This case suggests that in presence of IL both primary and secondary causes should be evaluated. On the other hand, genetic diagnosis is crucial not only for diagnosis but also for prognosis in HS. Life expectancy and quality could deeply vary among different gene mutations and protein variants of the same gene. Further studies and case reports are needed to better understand the clinical meaning of these genetic results and the role of CMV as trigger of IL.
Determinants of surgeon choice in cases of suspected implant rupture following mastectomy or aesthetic breast surgery
Authors: Zingaretti Nicola , Rampino Cordaro Emanuele , Parodi Pier Camillo , Marega Giulia , Modolo Francesca , Moreschi Carlo , Da Broi Ugo
Published: June 2020

Implant ruptures may be diagnosed by physical examination, ultrasound (US), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The absence of standard guidelines to approach to implant ruptures may cause unnecessary surgical revisions in the absence of radiological confirmation of prosthetic damages.

The purpose of this study was to analyze the diagnostic procedures applied to patients with suspected prosthetic rupture and surgeon choices to perform a revision or to plan a clinical and radiological follow-up.

We conducted a retrospective study on 62 women submitted to revision surgery due to radiological diagnosis of suspected implant rupture, following mastectomy or aesthetic reconstruction, and admitted to a Plastic Surgery Department between 2008 and 2018.

Seventy-three implants, believed to be ruptured, were explanted. One-third of these were intact and unnecessarily explanted. US associated with MRI evaluation resulted in the most helpful diagnostical method.

A standardized clinical and radiological approach is essential to manage breast implant ruptures successfully. An innovative protocol is proposed in order to: ensure the appropriate management of implant ruptures and prevent unnecessary surgical revisions; reduce the risk of claims for medical malpractice in cases of unsatisfactory final aesthetic results or worse than before.
Efficacy and Safety of Remdesivir for COVID-19 Treatment: An Analysis of Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trials
Authors: Zhu Yun , Teng Zhaowei , Yang Lirong , Xu Shuanglan , Liu Jie , Teng Yirong , Hao Qinggang , Zhao Dake , Li Xiaolan , Lu Sheng , Zeng Yong
Published: June 2020

BACKGROUND

Remdesivir, an inhibitor of viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerases, has been identified as a candidate for COVID-19 treatment. However, the therapeutic effect of remdesivir is controversial.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, from inception to June 11, 2020 for randomized controlled trials on the clinical efficacy of remdesivir. The main outcomes were discharge rate, mortality, and adverse events. This study is registered at INPLASY (INPLASY202060046).

RESULTS

Data of 1075 subjects showed that remdesivir significantly increased the discharge rate of patients with COVID-19 compared with the placebo (50.4% vs. 45.29%; relative risk [RR] 1.19 [95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05–1.34], I2 = 0.0%, P = 0.754). It also significantly decreased mortality (8.18% vs. 12.70%; RR 0.64 [95% CI, 0.44–0.92], I2 = 45.7%, P = 0.175) compared to the placebo. Data of 1296 subjects showed that remdesivir significantly decreased the occurrence of serious adverse events (RR 0.77 [95% CI, 0.63–0.94], I2 = 0.0%, P = 0.716).

CONCLUSION

Remdesivir is efficacious and safe for the treatment of COVID-19.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

This study is registered at the International Platform of Registered Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Protocols (INPLASY202060046).
Barriers to Clinical Trial Efficiency and Patient Access: The Heart Failure Collaboratory Industry Survey
Authors: Sinha Shashank S. , Psotka Mitchell A. , Fiuzat Mona , Barnett Scott D. , Bruckmann Martina , Butler Javed , DeSouza Mary M. , Felker G. Michael , Solomon Scott D. , Stockbridge Norman , Teerlink John R. , Unger Ellis F. , O’Connor Christopher M. , Konstam Marvin A.
Published: June 2020

Aims

Clinical trial inefficiency and lack of patient access to novel therapies have been identified as key barriers to successful heart failure innovation. The Heart Failure Collaboratory (HFC) is a consortium developed to identify and address barriers to bringing drugs and devices to market. The HFC performed an electronic cross-sectional survey of key leaders within industry to collate and interpret a sample of viewpoints on these challenges.

Methods and Results

From August to September 2018, self-administered survey data were electronically collected from industry partners. Group comparisons were made via Fisher’s Exact or chi-square test. Respondents most commonly rated the United States Food and Drug Administration (44.2%), Health Canada (39.5%) and European Medicines Agency (32.6%) as efficient. Respondents rated the top 3 areas with the greatest opportunity for regulatory agencies to improve efficiency: ‘improve usefulness of agency feedback’ (48.8%); ‘improved timeliness of agency responses’ (41.9%); and ‘pre-specification of required magnitude of clinical effect’ and ‘limit excessive data requirements’ (32.6%). Respondents rated items of ‘excessive clinical site staff workload’ (55.8%), ‘overly complex case report forms’ (51.2%) and ‘data input errors’ (39.5%) as the top 3 factors influencing data quality. Respondents rated items of ‘onerous prior authorization requirements’ (51.2%), ‘availability of decision-making rationale’ (46.5%) and ‘rationality of access barriers created by payers’ (44.2%) as the top 3 impediments to improving patient access to approved therapies.

Conclusion

This broadly distributed survey of industry respondents identified multiple specific barriers to heart failure clinical trial efficiency and patient access, which should help direct efforts toward improvement.
Magnetic resonance imaging for individual prediction of treatment response in major depressive disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Cohen Sem E. , Zantvoord Jasper B. , Wezenberg Babet N. , Bockting Claudi L.H. , van Wingen Guido A.
Published: June 2020

Objective

No tools are currently available to predict whether a patient suffering from major depressive disorder (MDD) will respond to a certain treatment. Machine learning analysis of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data has shown potential in predicting response for individual patients, which may enable personalized treatment decisions and increase treatment efficacy. Here, we evaluated the accuracy of MRI-guided response prediction in MDD.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of all studies using MRI to predict single-subject response to antidepressant treatment in patients with MDD. Classification performance was calculated using a bivariate model and expressed as area under the curve, sensitivity, and specificity. In addition, we analyzed differences in classification performance between different interventions and MRI modalities.

Results

Meta-analysis of twenty-two samples including 957 patients showed an overall area under the bivariate summary receiver operating curve of 0.84 (95% CI 0.81-0.87), sensitivity of 77% (95% CI 71-82), and specificity of 79% (95% CI 73 - 84). Although classification performance was higher for electroconvulsive therapy outcome prediction (n = 285, 80% sensitivity, 83% specificity) than medication outcome prediction (n = 283, 75% sensitivity, 72% specificity), there was no significant difference in classification performance between treatments or MRI modalities.

Conclusion

Prediction of treatment response using machine learning analysis of MRI data is promising but should not yet be implemented into clinical practice. Future studies with more generalizable samples and external validation are needed to establish the potential of MRI to realize individualized patient care in MDD.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42019137497
The HIV-1 Vpu transmembrane domain topology and formation of a hydrophobic interface with BST-2 are critical for Vpu-mediated BST-2 downregulation
Authors: Khan Nabab , Padhi Siladitya , Patel Paresh , Priyakumar U. Deva , Jameel Shahid
Published: June 2020

Viruses belonging to the M group of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) are the most virulent among the four HIV-1 groups. One factor that distinguishes the M group HIV-1 from others is Vpu, a membrane localized accessory protein, which promotes the release of virions by neutralizing the antiviral host cell protein BST-2. To investigate if this activity is determined by the topology of Vpu or by conserved amino acid residues, we prepared chimeric forms of Vpu by replacing its transmembrane domain with those from its topological homologs. Although the chimeric Vpu proteins downregulated BST-2, these substantially reduced virus production as well. Molecular modeling studies on Vpu from different HIV-1 groups and the chimeric Vpu proteins showed that shape and the availability of a hydrophobic interface are more important for BST-2 antagonism than conservation of the amino acid sequence. Our data suggest that the HIV-1 Vpu-M protein has evolved topologically to interact with BST-2, and that the Vpu/BST-2 interface can be exploited as a target to limit HIV-1 replication.
The Influence of Time-Limited Immunity on a COVID-19 Epidemic: A Simulation Study
Authors: Kosinski Robert J.
Published: June 2020

A series of spreadsheet simulations using SEIS, SEIR, and SEIRS models showed that different durations of effective immunity could have important consequences for the prevalence of an epidemic disease with COVID-19 characteristics. Immunity that lasted four weeks, twelve weeks, six months, one year, and two years was tested with pathogen R0 values of 1.5, 2.3, and 3.0. Shorter durations of immunity resulted in oscillations in disease prevalence. Immunity that lasted from three months to two years produced recurrent disease outbreaks triggered by the expiration of immunity. If immunity “faded out” gradually instead of persisting at full effectiveness to the end of the immune period, the recurrent outbreaks became more frequent. The duration of effective immunity is an important consideration in the epidemiology of a disease like COVID-19.
A new estimation method for COVID-19 time-varying reproduction number using active cases
Authors: Hasan Agus , Susanto Hadi , Tjahjono Venansius , Kusdiantara Rudy , Putri Endah , Hadisoemarto Panji , Nuraini Nuning
Published: June 2020

We propose a new method to estimate the time-varying effective (or instantaneous) reproduction number of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). The method is based on a discrete-time stochastic augmented compartmental model that describes the virus transmission. A two-stage estimation method, which combines the Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) to estimate the reported state variables (active and removed cases) and a low pass filter based on a rational transfer function to remove short term fluctuations of the reported cases, is used with case uncertainties that are assumed to follow a Gaussian distribution. Our method does not require information regarding serial intervals, which makes the estimation procedure simpler without reducing the quality of the estimate. We show that the proposed method is comparable to common approaches, e.g., age-structured and new cases based sequential Bayesian models. We also apply it to COVID-19 cases in the Scandinavian countries: Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, where we see a delay of about four days in predicting the epidemic peak.
Superspreading as a Regular Factor of the COVID-19 Pandemic: I. A Two-Component Model
Authors: Dimaschko Juri
Published: June 2020

We consider the impact of superspreading on the course of the COVID-19 epidemic. A two-component model of the epidemic has been developed, in which all infected are divided in two groups. The groups are asymptomatic superspreaders spreading the infection and sensitive persons which can only get infection. Once infected the sensitive exhibit clear symptoms and become isolated. It is shown that the ratio of increment of the number of daily cases in the beginning of the epidemic and decrement at the end of the epidemic is equal to the ratio of the spreading rates of the infection transmission from the superspreaders to potential superspreaders and to the sensitive persons, respectively. On the basis of data from 12 countries and territories it is found that the superspreaders transmit the infection to potential superspreaders approximately 4 times more often then to the sensitive persons. Specific measures to limit the epidemical incidence are proposed. The possibility of an allergic component in the disease is discussed.
“012012 or 111000”: preference for consumption pattern-seeking
Authors: Kim Jungkeun , Cui Yuanyuan (Gina) , Hwang Euejung , Franklin Drew , Seo Yuri
Published: June 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to examine how consumers make choices when they are faced with a fixed set of available options, consisting of both preferred and less-preferred choices, in the domain of food consumption. Specifically, the paper offers a novel perspective to predict repeated choice decisions in food consumption, which is termed as “pattern-seeking” – a consumption choice pattern that involves a coherent repetitive sequence of sub-groupings or coherently concentrated sub-groupings of options.

Design/methodology/approach

Eight experimental studies that contrast the existing theoretical predictions regarding repeated choices (e.g. primacy effect, recency effect, variety vs consistency) against pattern-seeking were conducted using hypothetical and actual food choices.

Findings

The results of experimental studies show that an explicit decision pattern (i.e. pattern-seeking) emerges as the most significant predictor of repeated choice in the food consumption domain.

Research limitations/implications

This study offers a novel perspective on how consumers make repeated choices in the domain of food consumption.

Practical implications

The results show that consumers prefer food consumption with a pattern (vs non-pattern). Thus, it would be better to generate marketing activities that allow customers to satisfy their pattern-seeking more easily.

Originality/value

This study advances the literature on repeated food choices by demonstrating that people possess an inherent preference for patterns in food consumption.
System reliability computation and estimation based on a cumulative damage–threshold–shock model
Authors: Siju K.C. Siju K.C. , Kumar Mahesh
Published: June 2020

Purpose

This article considers a reliability model where the failure is due to cumulative damage exceeding a threshold level. The concept that the threshold level of cumulative damage at each arrival of shock can change based on whether the magnitude of each shock exceeds its defined threshold level is considered to compute the system reliability.

Design/methodology/approach

The stochastic process approach is used to obtain the cumulative damage based on Poisson arrival of shocks. The general expression for reliability is obtained using the conditional probability over each arrival of shock. The method of maximum likelihood estimation is used to obtain the estimators of the parameters and system reliability. A sensitivity analysis is performed to measure the effect of the parameter representing the rate of arrival of shock.

Findings

The maximum likelihood estimates of the reliability approach the actual reliability for increasing sample size. A sensitivity analysis study on the parameter representing the rate of arrival of shock shows that as the values of parameter increase (decrease), the reliability value decreases (increases).

Originality/value

Obtained a new expression for the cumulative damage–shock model and the findings are positively supported by presenting the general trend of estimated values of reliability approaching the actual value of reliability. The sensitivity analysis also genuinely supports our findings.
Transformative learning in the field of sustainability: a systematic literature review (1999-2019)
Authors: Rodríguez Aboytes Jorge Gustavo , Barth Matthias
Published: June 2020

Purpose

This study aims to investigate how transformative learning has been conceptualised and operationalised in education for sustainable development (ESD) and sustainability learning and to collect evidence on how to support transformative learning in formal and non-formal environments.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a systematic literature review to provide a structured and replicable search and analysis of the relevant literature to produce a bibliometric overview that combines a quantitative description of the body of literature and qualitative analysis of the learning processes, outcomes and conditions.

Findings

The convergence between transformative learning and sustainability has become an emerging field of inquiry, despite the superficial use of transformative learning theory in many studies. By examining the learning process, outcomes and conditions in the core sample of studies, this study demonstrates that transformative learning theory – if carefully studied – can contribute to the design and implementation of educational interventions and assessments of learning towards sustainability. Furthermore, the sustainability context provides an empirical grounding that highlights the fact that social learning, the role of experience and the development of sustainability competencies are inherently part of transformative learning.

Originality/value

To date, few attempts have been made to better understand how transformative learning theory has been used in sustainability learning and ESD research. This systematic review allows for a better comprehension of how concepts and mechanisms elucidated in transformative learning theory are operationalised in sustainability learning and ESD research and serves as a source of inspiration for those researchers and practitioners who aims to make sustainability education, teaching and learning more transformative.
Do demographic factors matter in university-industry knowledge exchange? A study based on Sri Lankan university system
Authors: Weerasinghe I.M.S. , Dedunu H.H.
Published: June 2020

Purpose

This study aims to identify the effect of demographic factors on the relationship between academic contribution and university–industry knowledge exchange in Sri Lanka.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is of quantitative and explanatory type , which applied the deductive research method, and is conducted with minimum interference of researcher taking individual academics as the unit of analysis. The study collected data from 178 academics randomly through a structured questionnaire designed to analyze through statistical package for the social sciences and analysis of a moment structure statistical software. A structural equation model is applied to collected data to explore the moderating impact of the demographic factor on the university–industry knowledge exchange.

Findings

Overall involvement of academic staff in joint research, contract research, human resource mobility and the training with industry were was low in Sri Lanka. However, all four independent variables significantly associated with the knowledge exchange process from which only joint research and training had a statistically significant effect on university–industry knowledge exchange . Concerning demographic factors, only the quality of academic research significantly moderated the relationship between academic contribution and university–industry knowledge exchange process in Sri Lanka.

Research limitations/implications

This study considered only the university side of the university–industry knowledge exchange process.

Practical implications

This paper implies that gender, age and area of specialization did not have significant power to moderate the relationship between academic contribution and university–industry knowledge exchange process.

Originality/value

There is a lack of research literature discussing the moderating effect of demographic factors on the university–industry knowledge exchange process. In Sri Lanka, money and commercial benefits that received through industry partnerships had not been valued by academics. The majority considered the connection with industry and exchange knowledge as a responsibility that they should perform in return to free education received from grade one to graduation.
Learning in the time of COVID-19: capitalizing on the opportunity presented by the pandemic
Authors: Trombly Christopher E.
Published: June 2020

Purpose

This paper addresses the current disruption in the educational status quo ante that has been caused by the worldwide outbreak of COVID-19. Its purpose is to suggest how practicing educators, their professional associations and the university-based researchers with whom they partner might capitalize on the unanticipated opportunity to impact education policy that the pandemic presents.

Design/methodology/approach

The author draws upon his own preparation and experiences – first as a long-time practitioner in the elementary and secondary school setting, then as a university professor – to offer insights and suggestions to practicing educators, their professional associations and the university-based researchers with whom they partner.

Findings

Despite the unexpected challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic has presented to educators – challenges to which educators around the globe have risen admirably – the current crisis also affords practicing educators, their professional associations and the university-based researchers with whom they partner to change the status quo ante for the better.

Originality/value

The particular value of this piece is twofold: its analysis of the impact of this unanticipated crisis upon education by an author who has served both in the elementary/secondary setting and at the university level, and its assertion that educators must avail themselves of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to change the educational status quo ante for the better.
Will the pandemic change schools?
Authors: Sahlberg Pasi
Published: June 2020

Purpose

This essay offers a perspective for practitioners and decision-makers to look beyond short-term recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and consider longer-term consequences that it may have on schools.

Design/methodology/approach

In this essay, I discuss some general observations about education during the pandemic and then provide a perspective to some issues related to educational inequalities and learning from home during the pandemic. The essay is informed by recent media articles and reports of national and international institutions.

Findings

This essay makes three claims: Despite high hopes, there is only a little chance schools will change as a consequence of this pandemic without bold and brave shifts in mindset in how that change happens. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the effects of preexisting social and educational inequalities; fixing these would be an important consequence of the pandemic. During school closures, learning from home has been mostly based on the old logic of consuming information and knowledge rather than creating or cocreating new ideas and solutions to real-life problems.

Research limitations/implications

This is an essay that offers evidence-informed perspectives to current development in education, and it should not be treated as a research-based article.

Originality/value

This essay will contribute to the evolving public conversation and professional debate on the future of school education. It will be part of the series of essays that will support those who are seeking to not just adapt to meet the pandemic but also to step back and consider the medium to longer-term implications.
Adult third culture kids: expatriate potential is one piece of the puzzle
Authors: Nash Megan P.
Published: June 2020

Purpose

Adult third culture kids (ATCK) have been identified as a potential source for global business because of their experience in expatriation and increased intercultural competence. The purpose of this paper is to build on existing research focused on this population and to highlight crucial areas for further study to gain more comprehensive insight to their potential in working teams.

Design/methodology/approach

This viewpoint design reviews previous literature and research on ATCK and their potential for business expatriation and raises questions for areas of necessary further research to better understand their impact upon assignment.

Findings

There is strong support for ATCK suitability and inclination for expatriate assignment from previous literature. There is much unknown about their performance upon expatriation and a need for further research specific to ATCK performance in teams and organizations.

Originality/value

This study poses questions about translating ATCK experience into team performance; emphasizes the challenges in isolating one trait in personal development and the risks of conflating ATCK experience in professional capabilities.
Customer-perceived quality, innovation and tradition: some empirical evidence
Authors: Dettori Angela , Floris Michela , Dessì Cinzia
Published: June 2020

Purpose

This study aims to explore how customer-perceived quality is affected by innovation in traditional products in the bread, bakery and pastry industry. The study assesses whether innovating traditional products is an effective strategy, especially in traditional industries.

Design/methodology/approach

This study followed a quantitative method of analysis. Data were gathered from a sample of 200 Italian bread consumers and analysed using a two-pronged correlation analysis, and two hypotheses were tested using Pearson’s correlation.

Findings

The results showed the negative relationship between customer-perceived quality and innovating traditional products in traditional industries embedded in closed contexts.

Research limitations/implications

The study has several academic implications. First, by focusing on the traditional food industry, the study contributes to the theory by answering the call for research in this field; second, the findings contribute to the embeddedness construct and, third, to the studies of customer-perceived quality and to the literature on innovation.

Practical implications

The findings are particularly interesting for entrepreneurs and consultants in traditional industries who make decisions on whether it is better to innovate or to remain anchored to tradition.

Originality/value

The present study clarifies the shadowy side of innovation in traditional industries, such as the bread, bakery and pastry industry, and it reveals how tradition plays a meaningful role in those sectors.
Landscape does matter: Disentangling founder effects from natural and human‐aided post‐introduction dispersal during an ongoing biological invasion
Authors: Sherpa Stéphanie , Renaud Julien , Guéguen Maya , Besnard Gilles , Mouyon Loic , Rey Delphine , Després Laurence
Published: June 2020

Environmental features impacting the spread of invasive species after introduction can be assessed using population genetic structure as a quantitative estimation of effective dispersal at the landscape scale. However, in the case of an ongoing biological invasion, deciphering whether genetic structure represents landscape connectivity or founder effects is particularly challenging.

We examined the modes of dispersal (natural and human‐aided) and the factors (landscape or founders history) shaping genetic structure in range edge invasive populations of the Asian tiger mosquito,Aedes albopictus, in the region of Grenoble (Southeast France).

Based on detailed occupancy–detection data and environmental variables (climatic, topographic and land‐cover), we modelledA. albopictuspotential suitable area and its expansion history since first introduction. The relative role of dispersal modes was estimated using biological dispersal capabilities and landscape genetics approaches using genome‐wide SNP dataset.

We demonstrate that both natural and human‐aided dispersal have promoted the expansion of populations. Populations in diffuse urban areas, representing highly suitable habitat forA. albopictus, tend to disperse less, while roads facilitate long‐distance dispersal. Yet, demographic bottlenecks during introduction played a major role in shaping the genetic variability of these range edge populations.

The present study is one of the few investigating the role of founder effects and ongoing expansion processes in shaping spatial patterns of genetic variation in an invasive species at the landscape scale. The combination of several dispersal modes and large proportions of continuous suitable habitats forA. albopictuspromoted range filling of almost its entire potential distribution in the region of Grenoble only few years after introduction.
Pre‐ to post‐fledging carryover effects and the adaptive significance of variation in wing development for juvenile songbirds
Authors: Jones Todd M. , Ward Michael P.
Published: June 2020

Evolutionary ecologists have long been interested in the adaptive significance of morphological traits across stages of animal life. In some cases, traits that are not adaptive in one life stage may be adaptive in a subsequent stage. As such, morphological traits may generate important carryover effects, whereby conditions experienced during one life‐history stage influence fitness during subsequent stages.

Carryover effects are particularly relevant in young animals, as early life stages are thought to be critical with respect to animal life‐history evolution and population dynamics. In songbirds, pre‐ to post‐fledging carryover effects operating within species may be critical for survival and shape life histories among species, but remain poorly understood.

Among potential songbird traits, wing development and its associated flight ability may be the most important for post‐fledging survival. Thus, to assess the adaptive significance of wing development for juvenile songbirds under Arnold's (Integrative and Comparative Biology, 23, 1983, 347) classic performance–morphology–fitness paradigm, we tested for pre‐ to post‐fledging carryover effects among 20 coexisting species (nine focal species) of an avian community in east‐central Illinois, USA.

We found evidence for pre‐ to post‐fledging carryover effects of wing development in all species, by which individuals with less developed wings exhibited poorer flight ability and experienced higher rates of mortality after fledging. Furthermore, our findings suggest that carryover effects operating at the species level ultimately help shape patterns of life‐history variation among species. Specifically, we found that species with higher rates of nest predation had shorter nestling periods, fledged young with less developed wings and exhibited higher rates of post‐fledging mortality.

Our results highlight the adaptive significance of wing development as a key factor generating pre‐ to post‐fledging carryover effects among songbirds, and demonstrate how morphological traits, locomotor performance, and age‐specific survival may trade‐off and interact across juvenile life stages to shape animal life histories.
Mate fidelity improves survival and breeding propensity of a long‐lived bird
Authors: Leach Alan G. , Riecke Thomas V. , Sedinger James S. , Ward David H. , Boyd Sean
Published: June 2020

Evolutionary and behavioural ecologists have long been interested in factors shaping the variation in mating behaviour observed in nature. Although much of the research on this topic has focused on the consequences of mate choice and mate change on annual reproductive success, studies of a potential positive link between mate fidelity and adult demographic rates have been comparatively rare. This is particularly true for long‐lived birds with multi‐year, socially monogamous pair bonds.

We used a 26‐year capture–mark–recapture dataset of 3,330 black brentBranta bernicla nigricansto test whether breeding with a familiar mate improved future breeding propensity and survival. We predicted that experienced breeders nesting with a new partner would have rates of survival similar to familiar pairs because long‐lived species avoid jeopardizing survival since their lifetime fitness is sensitive to this vital rate. In contrast, we expected that any costs of breeding with a new partner would be paid through skipping the subsequent breeding attempt.

We found that unfamiliar pairs had lower subsequent breeding propensity than faithful partners. However, contrary to our expectations, individuals breeding with a new mate also suffered reduced survival.

These results add to a small number of studies indicating that a positive relationship between mate retention and adult demographic rates may exist in a diverse array of avian species. Given these results, researchers should consider costs of mate change that extend beyond within‐season reproductive success to fully understand the potential adaptive basis for perennial social monogamy. We caution that if mate retention enhances survival prospects, improvements in annual reproductive success with pair‐bond length could be a secondary factor favouring perennial social monogamy, particularly in species with slower life‐history strategies. Furthermore, some cases where annual reproductive success does not improve with pair‐bond duration, yet multi‐year pair bonds are common, could be explained by benefits afforded by mate fidelity to adult vital rates.
Technology import, secondary innovation, and industrial structure optimization: A potential innovation strategy for China
Authors: Liao Hongwei , Yang Liangping , Ma Henan , Zheng JiaoJiao
Published: June 2020

To enhance people’s lives, China needs to maximize the opportunities of technological changes and conduct innovations to optimize its industrial structure in the context of intellectual property rights (IPR) protection. The present paper analyses how industrial structure can be optimized by considering technology imports and innovations, and proposes an innovation strategy for China. We decompose imported technology into embodied technology imports (ETI) and disembodied technology imports (DTI). We found that ETI and DTI have negative effects on industrial structure rationalization and supererogation. Moreover, secondary innovations based on ETI depress industrial rationalization and supererogation, while secondary innovations based on DTI contribute positively. Therefore, DTI should be valued and the absorption of introduced technology improved. It is important to choose the appropriate mode of technology imports, to coordinate on the ratio of technology imports to secondary innovations, and to enhance the absorption of imported technology with the gradual improvement of IPR protection.
Responsiveness of dentate neurons generated throughout adult life is associated with resilience to cognitive aging
Authors: Montaron Marie‐Françoise , Charrier Vanessa , Blin Nicolas , Garcia Pierre , Abrous Djoher Nora
Published: June 2020

During aging, some individuals are resilient to the decline of cognitive functions whereas others are vulnerable. These inter‐individual differences in memory abilities have been associated with differences in the rate of hippocampal neurogenesis measured in elderlies. Whether the maintenance of the functionality of neurons generated throughout adult life is linked to resilience to cognitive aging remains completely unexplored. Using the immediate early gene Zif268, we analyzed the activation of dentate granule neurons born in adult (3‐month‐old), middle‐aged (12‐month‐old), or senescent (18‐month‐old) rats (n = 96) in response to learning when animals reached 21 months of age. The activation of neurons born during the developmental period was also examined. We show that adult‐born neurons can survive up to 19 months and that neurons generated 4, 10, or 19 months before learning, but not developmentally born neurons, are activated in senescent rats with good learning abilities. In contrast, aged rats with bad learning abilities do not exhibit activity‐dependent regulation of newborn cells, whatever their birthdate. In conclusion, we propose that resilience to cognitive aging is associated with responsiveness of neurons born during adult life. These data add to our current knowledge by showing that the aging of memory abilities stems not only from the number but also from the responsiveness of adult‐born neurons.
Medical comorbidities in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia treated with idelalisib: analysis of two large randomised clinical trials
Authors: Gordon Max J. , Huang Julie , Chan Rebecca J. , Bhargava Pankaj , Danilov Alexey V.
Published: June 2020

Comorbidities influence survival in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) treated with chemo‐immunotherapy or ibrutinib. While idelalisib has been studied in patients with comorbidities, their impact has not been investigated. We analysed 481 patients treated with idelalisib on two randomised trials (NCT01659021 and NCT01539512). Comorbidities were assessed using the Cumulative Illness Risk Scale (CIRS). Patients received idelalisib + anti‐CD20 (rituximab or ofatumumab; n = 284) or anti‐CD20 alone (n = 197). The median age was 69 years. We found that comorbidities did not significantly affect outcomes of idelalisib therapy. The objective response rate (ORR) was 79·3% versus 85·8%, the median progression‐free survival (PFS) was 16·3 versus 19·1 months, and the median overall survival (OS) was 39·8 versus 49·8 months in patients treated with idelalisib who had a CIRS score of >6 versus ≤6, correspondingly. Treatment with idelalisib + anti‐CD20 was associated with superior PFS and ORR when compared to anti‐CD20 monotherapy in patients who had high comorbidities (CIRS score of >6) or at least one severe comorbidity (median PFS 16·3 vs. 6·9 months and 16·6 vs. 6·5 months; odds ratio 20·1 and 33·2; P < 0·0001). Thus, comorbidities do not portend inferior outcomes in patients with CLL treated with idelalisib in combination with anti‐CD20 therapy.
Recordkeeping and the life‐long memory and identity needs of care‐experienced children and young people
Authors: Hoyle Victoria , Shepherd Elizabeth , Lomas Elizabeth , Flinn Andrew
Published: June 2020

In family settings stories, photographs and memory objects support narratives of identity and belonging. Such resources are often missing for people who were in care as children. As a result, they may be unable to fill gaps in their memories or answer simple questions about their early lives. In these circumstances, they turn to the records created about them by social workers and care providers to reconstruct personal histories. Research suggests that thousands of requests to view records for this purpose are made each year in England under the subject access provisions of data protection legislation. This article reports the findings of MIRRA, a participatory research project on the memory and identity dimensions of social care recordkeeping. Drawing on data collected during interviews and focus groups with adult care leavers, the study explores the motives and experiences of care‐experienced people who access their records in England. Findings show the practical and cultural challenges they face when doing so and the resulting impacts on well‐being. The study suggests that the development of person‐centred approaches to recordkeeping in social work, which focus on the perspectives and experiences of the individual, could better support the lifelong memory and identity needs of care‐experienced people.