bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using accounting ratios to measure construction industry lag
Authors: Killingsworth John , Mehany Mohammed Hashem , Kim Jeff
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The apparent lag between macro-economic behavior and financial implications in the construction industry is yet to be examined. The purpose of this paper is to understand the nature of the lag and the relationship between economic changes from year-to-year and the impact on the financial status of construction companies.

Design/methodology/approach

Correlation was made between US economic growth and construction industry financial indicators over a 28-year period. Cumulative per cent growth in US GDP was considered an independent variable, while nine financial ratios were calculated and considered dependent variables in this study.

Findings

The results of this study found that correlation improved when considering lag of two, three or sometimes four years after the economic event. Some financial ratios proved more sensitive than others, supporting the hypothesis of this study.

Research limitations/implications

The practical application of this study for construction companies is to understand how the construction industry lag impacts financial behavior. It therefore informs managerial decisions related to solvency, liquidity, equity structure and managerial practices; all of which are measured by financial ratios.

Practical implications

This study was intended to advance the research in this area and also to serve to strengthen industry members in their financial management of construction companies. Economic dynamics have long-lasting implications, which can be addressed through an increased focus on managing financial health.

Originality/value

Though the lag is intuitively known and has been studied from market perspectives, there is a lack of empirical study evaluating the impact of lag on financial key performance indicators.
Significant factors associated with malaria spread in Thailand: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Krainara Patcharaporn , Dumrongrojwatthana Pongchai , Bhattarakosol Pattarasinee
Published: April 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to uncover new factors that influence the spread of malaria.

Design/methodology/approach

The historical data related to malaria were collected from government agencies. Later, the data were cleaned and standardized before passing through the analysis process. To obtain the simplicity of these numerous factors, the first procedure involved in executing the factor analysis where factors' groups related to malaria distribution were determined. Therefore, machine learning was deployed, and the confusion matrices are computed. The results from machine learning techniques were further analyzed with logistic regression to study the relationship of variables affecting malaria distribution.

Findings

This research can detect 28 new noteworthy factors. With all the defined factors, the logistics model tree was constructed. The precision and recall of this tree are 78% and 82.1%, respectively. However, when considering the significance of all 28 factors under the logistic regression technique using forward stepwise, the indispensable factors have been found as the number of houses without electricity (houses), number of irrigation canals (canals), number of shallow wells (places) and number of migrated persons (persons). However, all 28 factors must be included to obtain high accuracy in the logistics model tree.

Originality/value

This paper may lead to highly-efficient government development plans, including proper financial management for malaria control sections. Consequently, the spread of malaria can be reduced naturally.
Cross-cultural effects on graphical password memorability and design
Authors: Mohamed Mona , Porterfield Tobin , Chakraborty Joyram
Published: April 2021

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of cultural familiarity with images on the memorability of recognition-based graphical password (RBG-P).

Design/methodology/approach

The researchers used a between-group design with two groups of 50 participants from China and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, using a webtool and two questionnaires to test two hypotheses in a four-week long study.

Findings

The results showed that culture has significant effects on RBG-P memorability, including both recognition and recall of images. It was also found that the login success rate depreciated quickly as time progressed, which indicates the memory decay and its effects on the visual memory.

Research limitations/implications

Collectively, these results can be used to design universal RBG-Ps with maximal password deflection points. For better cross-cultural designs, designers must allow users from different cultures to personalize their image selections based on their own cultures.

Practical implications

The RBG-P interfaces developed without consideration for users’ cultures may lead to the construction of passwords that are difficult to memorize and easy to attack. Thus, the incorporation of cultural images is indispensable for improving the authentication posture.

Social implications

The development of RBG-P with cultural considerations will make it easy for the user population to remember the password and make it more expensive for the intruder to attack.

Originality/value

This study provides an insight for RBG-P developers to produce a graphical password platform that increases the memorability factor.
An internet of things-based smart warehouse infrastructure: design and application
Authors: Affia Ifadhila , Aamer Ammar
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Real-time visibility and traceability in warehousing could be accomplished by implementing the internet-of-things (IoT) technology. The purpose of this paper is to develop a roadmap for designing an IoT-based smart warehouse infrastructure and, respectively, design and apply the IoT-based smart warehouse infrastructure using a developed roadmap. More specifically, this study first identifies critical components to design an IoT-based smart warehouse infrastructure. Second, the study at hand identifies essential factors that contribute to the successful implementation of IoT-based smart warehouse infrastructure.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative-descriptive method, through a comprehensive review of the relevant studies, was used in this study to develop a roadmap. A prototype system was then designed to simulate a case company’s actual warehouse operations in one of the manufacturing companies in Indonesia.

Findings

A framework was proposed which is viable for designing an IoT-based smart warehouse infrastructure. Based on the data collected from a case company, the proposed smart warehouse infrastructure design successfully implemented real-time visibility and traceability and improved overall warehouse efficiency.

Research limitations/implications

While the framework in this research was carried out in one of the developing counties, the study could be used as the basis for future research in a smart warehouse, IoT and related topics.

Originality/value

This research enhances the limited knowledge to establish the IoT infrastructure for a smart warehouse to enable real-time visibility and traceability. This study is also the first to specifically propose a framework for designing an IoT-based smart warehouse infrastructure. The proposed framework can motivate companies in developing countries to deploy efficient and effective smart warehouses using IoT to drive the countries’ economic growth.
Gender diversity on board of directors: comprehensive analysis of female directorate networks and the linkage between busyness and performance
Authors: Safari Maryam
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Drawing from social capital theory, this study aims to investigate the manifested critical barriers in deriving and implementing gender diversity policies, paying particular attention to the role multiple directorships play in shaping the directors’ behavior and the dynamic of the board of directors. The study comprehends social capital as a multi-dimensional concept and uses combinations of interconnected internal, external, expressive and instrumental networks.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses a mixed-method approach through which the quantitative approach is supplemented by a qualitative research method to comprehensively examine the development and impact of female directors’ networks in Australia. To do so, a large data set consisting of 2,527 observations of all Australian firms and data emerged from semi-structured interviews with female directors were brought together and analyzed.

Findings

The findings reveal an inverted U-shaped relationship between the size of women’s directorate networks and firm performance. The study additionally explicates the key moderating factors influencing the optimal number of multiple directorships. The key power-based and psychological well-being-related benefits of the inter- and intra-organizational interactions and “open” directorate networks for individual directors are further discussed. The findings also elucidate the status quo vis-à-vis labyrinth metaphor and excessive numbers of directorships.

Social implications

The study should be of interest to those interested in effective gender diversity management. The findings would assist in enabling tangible outcomes for women through advanced processes and systematic investment in and institutionalization of well-structured, equitable opportunities provided via gender-responsive policies dedicated to the education and training of future female directors.

Originality/value

Calling for social dialogues and discussions on non-financial factors, this study adds to the scarce literature on influential factors related to diversity management policies and practices on the board of directors.
Analyzing interrelated enablers of industry 4.0 for implementation in present industrial scenario
Authors: Murugaiyan Pachayappan , Ramasamy Panneerselvam
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The paper aims to present a systematic literature review to analyze interrelated enablers of Industry 4.0 for implementation. Industry 4.0 is an integrated manufacturing strategy embedded with disruptive technologies. Adapting these technologies with the present industrial scenario is dependent on understanding the dynamics of various critical enablers in the existing literature. In this paper, an effort has been taken to validate and reinforce these enablers by experts in the field of Industry 4.0 for implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed-methodology is designed in this paper. A text mining approach with an expert’s linguistic assessment method is planned to discover the enablers from literature 2010 to 2019. The most critical enablers and their dependencies on other enablers are studied by using correlation analysis.

Findings

The research explores the power driving enablers in three groups: technology, features and requirements for implementing Industry 4.0 in the existing factory. In each group, a high degree of associated and dependent enablers is fragmented in detail.

Practical implications

This paper will benefit the research communities and practitioners to understand the significance of an integrated ecosystem of Industry 4.0 technologies, features and requirements for implementation.

Originality/value

The text mining approach integrated with expert’s linguistic assessment to explore the pairwise relationship among the enablers using word correlation is a novel approach in this paper. Moreover, to best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first-ever attempt to conduct a structured literature review combined with text analysis and linguistic assessment to identify the enablers of Industry 4.0 for implementation.
Toward a dynamic capabilities’ diffusion model for international business headway of SMEs: evidence from the metallurgic and metal-mechanic (MMI) sectors
Authors: Abrantes Bruno Fernandes , Preto Miguel Torres , António Nelson
Published: April 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the characteristics of capability exchange within internationalizing small and medium enterprises (SMEs) of the Portuguese metallurgic and metal-mechanic sectors.

Design/methodology/approach

Multiple case research instrumentalizes a (manifest) content analysis based upon qualitative data gathered from the interviewing of the strategic apex of four multinational enterprises, codified in the light of the well-known Weber protocol.

Findings

The results uncover the existence of a multi-diffusional approach with a bi-directional regime of transferability, where reciprocal transference is non-simultaneous. Operational rigidities are asserted to be stifling the diffusion of capabilities across subsidiaries and hindering higher economies of learning.

Research limitations/implications

The current paradigm of international capabilization of the sector requires substantial enhancements in its design for the benefit of the firm’s international competitiveness, growth and wealth.

Originality/value

Organizational capabilities are a determinant of competitiveness. Hitherto, the phenomena of (capabilities) mobility and transferability are still acknowledged as a clear gap. This study opens, therefore, avenues on international capabilization in relation to the modeling and testing of global dynamic capabilities and its replicability across industries.
Corporate social responsibility: a case study in the company of urbanization of Curitiba
Authors: Singh Ananda Silva , De Carli Eduardo , Virtuoso Luiz Aurélio , Segatto Andréa Paula , Alves Fernanda Salvador
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the commitment to a corporate social responsibility (CSR) practice developed by Company of Urbanization of Curitiba S/A – URBS, located in Curitiba (Paraná), Brazil. The paper observes the CSR practice developed by the company.

Design/methodology/approach

A descriptive study that used a qualitative approach was held. The research strategy of the research used consisted of a case study. Data were collected through semi-structured, in-depth interviews, documental analysis and direct observation. These data were further analyzed through the content analysis’ perspective.

Findings

The organization in question, even without obligation, develops a CSR project that contributes to the formation and awareness of young citizens, comprising ethical, voluntary, economical and legal responsibilities.

Research limitations/implications

Because of the fact that this is a single case study, the results cannot be generalized, representing only the reality of this case.

Practical implications

The practical implications of this study lies in the attention toward training of students of public schools, especially in aspects of buses and services usage and care for public equity, factors that even contribute to citizenship and the formation of better people and professionals. This will, in the future, contribute to form citizens that are more aware and who will tend to contribute to adequate usage of the transportation system as a whole, resulting in savings for the organization.

Social implications

The project analyzed in this study contributes to the formation of better citizens regarding the respect and ethical responsibilities they develop toward the public transportation system.

Originality/value

This paper demonstrates the commitment to a CSC practice made by a mixed-economy organization that develops this practice to contribute to the formation of citizens of the city. The value of this paper lies in the fact that it shows how CSR practices can be aligned with other practices of organizations, contributing to all stakeholders involved in it.
PahT regulates carbon fluxes in Novosphingobium sp. HR1a and influences its survival in soil and rhizospheres
Authors: Segura Ana , Udaondo Zulema , Molina Lázaro
Published: April 2021

Novosphingobium sp. HR1a is a good biodegrader of PAHs and aromatic compounds, and also a good colonizer of rhizospheric environments. It was previously demonstrated that this microbe is able to co‐metabolize nutrients existing in root exudates together with the PAHs. We have revealed here that PahT, a regulator of the IclR‐family, regulates the central carbon fluxes favouring the degradation of PAHs and mono‐aromatic compounds, the ethanol and acetate metabolism and the uptake, phosphorylation and further degradation of mono‐ and oligo‐saccharides through a phosphoenolpyruvate transferase system (PTS). As final products of these fluxes, pyruvate and acetyl‐CoA are obtained. The pahT gene is located within a genomic region containing two putative transposons that carry all the genes for PAH catabolism; PahT also regulates these genes. Furthermore, encoded in this genomic region, there are genes that are involved in the recycling of phosphoenolpyruvate, from the obtained pyruvate, which is the motor molecule involved in the saccharide uptake by the PTS system. The co‐metabolism of PAHs with different carbon sources, together with the activation of the thiosulfate utilization and an alternative cytochrome oxidase system, also regulated by PahT, represents an advantage for Novosphingobium sp. HR1a to survive in rhizospheric environments.
Recommendations for Reporting Sample and Measurement Information in Experience Sampling Studies
Authors: Heggestad Eric D. , Kreamer Liana , Hausfeld Mary M. , Patel Charmi , Rogelberg Steven G.
Published: April 2021

Over the last couple of decades, studies using the experience sampling methodology (ESM) have been used with increasing frequency within the management‐related sciences as the method allows researchers the opportunity to investigate questions involving ongoing, dynamic, intra‐individual processes. Given the longitudinal nature of the methodology and the resulting multi‐level data structure, there are sample‐ and measurement‐related issues that make ESM studies different from other methods commonly used in management research. Consequently, ESM studies have demands for reporting sample‐ and measurement‐related information that differ from more commonly used methods. In the current paper, we review the conceptual foundations of sample and measurement issues in ESM studies and report the findings of a survey of the ESM studies to identify current reporting practices. We then offer clear, easy to implement recommendations for reporting sample‐ and measurement‐related aspects of ESM studies. We hope that these recommendations will improve reporting of ESM studies and allow readers the opportunity to more fully and comprehensively evaluate the research presented.
Latent profiles of vocabulary and domain knowledge and their relation to listening comprehension in kindergarten
Authors: Hwang HyeJin , Cabell Sonia Q.
Published: April 2021

Background

Vocabulary and domain knowledge are important factors that influence comprehension development. However, these factors have most frequently been examined in relation to reading comprehension and much less frequently examined in relation to listening comprehension. Moreover, almost no empirical studies have examined profiles of strengths and weaknesses in vocabulary and domain knowledge in students at the beginning of schooling. In the current study, we investigated different profiles (groups) of students regarding receptive and expressive vocabulary and science and social studies domain knowledge in the fall of kindergarten, as well as relations between the profiles and listening comprehension development throughout kindergarten.

Method

We analysed data collected from 629 kindergarten students living in two large urban districts in the United States by conducting a series of latent profile and chi‐square analyses.

Results

Latent profile analysis identified three groups of students that displayed distinct patterns of achievement in vocabulary and domain knowledge, namely, students whose scores on the four measures were below average (−1.6 standard deviations [SD]), average (−0.2 SD) and above average (0.8 SD). There was no group of students who displayed unbalanced achievement in vocabulary and domain knowledge at the beginning of schooling. In addition, statistically significant differences in listening comprehension development during kindergarten were observed for all pairwise comparisons across the groups.

Conclusion

The findings appear to indicate that students can acquire vocabulary to the extent that they develop domain knowledge and vice versa. The commensurate achievement might be due to mutually enhancing relations between vocabulary and domain knowledge. Moderate to large effect sizes on listening comprehension development when comparing the groups suggest the importance of supporting vocabulary and domain knowledge from the early grades.
Studying mutuality and perversity in the impacts of human resource management on societal well‐being: Advancing a pluralist agenda
Authors: Boxall Peter
Published: April 2021

Situated within a societal perspective on human resource management (HRM), this paper asks how HRM academics can make a better contribution to understanding the impacts of HRM on societal well‐being. It argues that we should target the ‘so what?’ questions that matter to society, including important issues of employer–employee misalignment and of perverse alignment (‘perverse‐performance work systems’). It calls for an approach to societal issues in HRM that is problem‐focused and theory‐informed. While recognising some validity to the criticisms of academic HRM raised in the ‘psychologisation’ debate, the article argues that the critique is over‐generalised and contests the idea that the concern of HRM academics with enhancing workplace mutuality is an expression of a unitarist ideology. Mutuality and unitarism should not be conflated. In advancing a pluralist agenda, it argues that we must become better at theoretical integration, at synergising our research methods and at engaging constructively with practitioners and policy makers.
Assessing the usefulness of daily and monthly asset‐pricing factors for Australian equities
Authors: Gray Philip , Zhong Angel
Published: April 2021

This paper considers which factors are worthy of inclusion in asset‐pricing models for Australian equity returns at daily and monthly frequencies. We utilise the recently developed methodology of Harvey and Liu (2020) to employ a performance metric specifically designed for model comparison and to conduct statistical inference that accommodates the possibility of data mining. The clear and consistent finding is that the market risk premium is the most important factor. This is the case for both daily and monthly asset‐pricing specifications, and irrespective of whether individual stocks or portfolios are used as test assets. There is no compelling evidence that any other factors are useful, implying that a parsimonious model suffices.
Conservative pulp therapy in the management of reversible and irreversible pulpitis
Authors: Yong D , Cathro P
Published: April 2021

Conservative pulp therapy is an alternative treatment option to tooth removal and root canal treatment in the management of deep caries, traumatic pulp exposures and developmental anomalies. Pulp tissue preservation can extend the long‐term survival of teeth through relatively simple restorative procedures. This article aims to update clinicians on the current state of research in materials, techniques and outcomes of vital pulp therapies and provide practical guidelines for their implementation into daily practice.
Mowing machinery and migratory sheep herds are complementary dispersal vectors for grassland species
Authors: Klinger Yves P. , Eckstein Rolf Lutz , Hansen Wiebke , Kleinebecker Till , Otte Annette , Ludewig Kristin
Published: April 2021

Aim

We assessed the role of mowing machinery and endozoochory by migratory sheep as dispersal vectors in semi‐natural grasslands by comparing the species compositions and traits of species found in the vectors to the regional above‐ground vegetation and soil seed bank. Furthermore, we discuss how their interplay may affect the conservation of semi‐natural grasslands.

Location

Rhön Mountains, central Europe.

Methods

Plant material from mowers (n = 12 from one date) and dung samples from migratory sheep (n = 39 from 13 dates) were collected and the dispersed plant species were determined using the emergence method. We compared the species compositions to the regional above‐ground vegetation and seed bank using non‐metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) and indicator species analysis. Furthermore, we compared functional traits of the dispersed species to traits of non‐dispersed species of the regional species pools by calculating log‐response ratios and performing metaregressions.

Results

While 43 species were shared between the vectors, the vegetation compositions differed from each other. Mower samples were more similar to the above‐ground vegetation whereas dung samples were more similar to the seed bank. Mowers and sheep endozoochory favoured the dispersal of species with different traits and phenologies. Species with small seed sizes were prevalent in both vectors. Mowers were less selective concerning most traits, but favoured high‐growing grasses such as Alopecurus pratensis and Trisetum flavescens. Sheep dung samples contained less grasses and more palatable species, such as Urtica dioica. Mowers were most selective concerning phenology, whereas endozoochory by migratory sheep also included late‐flowering species.

Conclusion

Sheep endozoochory and mowing machinery are complementary dispersal vectors favouring species with differing functional traits. Sheep endozoochory enables dispersal of species that have unfavourable traits (e.g. low releasing heights) or phenologies for dispersal by mowing machinery. To ensure the dispersal of a high number of plant species in semi‐natural grasslands, the interplay of different vectors should be considered.
Structural and ultrastructural characters of the reproductive tract in females of the mint leaf beetle Chrysolina herbacea (Duftschmid 1825) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)
Authors: Özyurt Koçakoğlu Nurcan , Candan Selami , Güllü Mustafa
Published: April 2021

In this study, Chrysolina herbacea female reproductive system, differentiating stages of vitellogenesis, the egg chorion are examined with light and scanning electron microscopies. C. herbacea is chosen for this study because it is considered to be one of the most harmful insects that destroy mint plants, and it is an agricultural pest. Female reproductive system consists of a pair of ovaries, a pair of lateral oviducts, a common oviduct, spermathecae and a genital chamber. The ovary has 18 meroistic telotrophic ovariole. Each ovariole is divided into four regions: terminal filament, germarium, vitellarium and pedicel. Terminal filament is a long tubular structure. Germarium contains trophocytes (nurse cells), young oocytes and prefollicular cells. Vitellarium consists differentiating oogenic stages including developmental periods of previtellogenesis, vitellogenesis and choriogenesis. The ovarioles open into lateral oviduct by pedicel. The single spermatheca is located near the base of the common oviduct. Spermathecae consist of spermathecae reservoir for sperm storage and a short spermathecae duct. C. herbacea eggs are yellow and elongated. The structure of female reproductive system, the egg chorion and larva of C. herbacea are important to understand the outbreak of this insect pest and to biological control this harmful species.
Complement, inflammation and thrombosis
Authors: Rawish Elias , Sauter Manuela , Sauter Reinhard , Nording Henry , Langer Harald F.
Published: April 2021

A mutual relationship exists between immune activation and mechanisms of thrombus formation. In particular, elements of the innate immune response such as the complement system can modulate platelet activation and subsequently thrombus formation. Several components of the complement system including C3 or the membrane attack complex have been reported to be associated with platelets and become functionally active in the micromilieu of platelet activation. The exact mechanisms how this interplay is regulated and its consequences for tissue inflammation, damage or recovery remain to be defined. This review addresses the current state of knowledge on this topic and puts it into context with diseases featuring both thrombosis and complement activation.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed issue on Canonical and non‐canonical functions of the complement system in health and disease. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v178.14/issuetoc
Disease‐modifying treatment with I2 imidazoline receptor ligand LSL60101 in an Alzheimer's disease mouse model: a comparative study with donepezil
Authors: Vasilopoulou Foteini , Rodríguez‐Arévalo Sergio , Bagán Andrea , Escolano Carmen , Griñán‐Ferré Christian , Pallàs Mercè
Published: April 2021

Background and Purpose

The development of effective therapeutic strategies against Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains a challenge. I2 imidazoline receptor ligands have a neuroprotective role in AD. Moreover, co‐treatment of AChE inhibitors with neuroprotective agents have shown better effects on the prevention of dementia. Here, we assessed the potential therapeutic effect of the I2 ligand, donepezil and their combination in 5XFAD mice.

Experimental Approach

5XFAD female mice were treated with low doses (1 mg·kg−1·day−1) of LSL60101, donepezil and donepezil plus LSL60101, during 4 weeks per os. Novel object recognition, Morris water maze, open field, elevated plus maze and three‐chamber tests were used to evaluate the cognitive and behavioural status after treatment. The effects on AD‐like pathology were assessed with immunohistochemistry, western blot, ELISA and qPCR.

Key Results

Chronic low‐dose treatment with LSL60101 and donepezil reversed cognitive deficits and impaired social behaviour. LSL60101 treatment did not affect anxiety‐like behaviour in contrast to donepezil. In the 5XFAD brains, LSL60101 and donepezil/LSL60101 treatments attenuated amyloid‐β pathology by decreasing amyloid‐β40 and amyloid‐β42 levels, amyloid‐β plaque number and tau hyperphosphorylation. These alterations were accompanied by reduced microglia marker Iba‐1 levels and increased Trem2 gene expression. LSL60101 and donepezil decreased glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) astrocytic marker reactivity. However, only LSL60101 and donepezil/LSL60101 treatments significantly increased the synaptic marker levels of post‐synaptic density protein 95 and synaptophysin.

Conclusion and Implications

Chronic low‐dose treatment with selective I2‐ ligands can be an effective treatment for AD and provide insights into combination treatments for symptomatic and disease‐modifying drugs.
Advancing Research on Minority Stress and Resilience in Trans Children and Adolescents in the 21st Century
Authors: Toomey Russell B.
Published: April 2021

Transgender and nonbinary children and adolescents bear a disproportionate level of poor health, and adverse developmental and academic outcomes compared to their cisgender peers. In this article, I review evidence from recent research on minority stress and resilience among trans youth and advocate for two additional domains to be included when studying the experiences of trans youth from a minority stress perspective. I describe the variability across sexual‐minority and gender‐minority youth in experiences of minority stress across and within contexts. I advocate for explicit attention in minority stress models with gender‐minority youth to the domains of (a) intrapersonal and interpersonal gender dysphoria, and (b) access and use of affirmative and comprehensive health care.
Pitfalls and challenges in genetic test interpretation: An exploration of genetic professionals experience with interpretation of results
Authors: Donohue Katherine E. , Gooch Catherine , Katz Alexander , Wakelee Jessica , Slavotinek Anne , Korf Bruce R.
Published: April 2021

The interpretation of genetic testing results is subject to error. This observational study illustrates examples of pitfalls and challenges in interpretation of genetic testing results as reported by genetics professionals. We surveyed genetics professionals to describe interpretation challenges, the types of variants that were involved, and the reported clinical impact of misconception of a test result. Case studies were then collected from a select group to further explore potential causes of misunderstanding. A total of 83% of survey respondents were aware of at least one instance of genetic test misinterpretation. Both professionals with and without formal training in genetics were challenged by test reports, and variants of unknown significance were most frequently involved. Case submissions revealed that interpretation pitfalls extend beyond variant classification analyses. Inferred challenges in case submissions include lack of genetic counseling, unclear wording of reports, and suboptimal communication among providers. Respondents and case submitters noted that incorrect interpretation can trigger unnecessary follow‐up tests and improperly alter clinical management. Further research is needed to validate and quantify large‐scale data regarding challenges of genetic results interpretation.
Novel ANO5 intronic Roma variant alters splicing causing muscular dystrophy
Authors: Mavillard Fabiola , Servián‐Morilla Emilia , Rivas Eloy , Paradas Carmen , Cabrera‐Serrano Macarena
Published: April 2021

The pathogenic role of intronic variants is generally difficult to assess, except for those near known splice sites for which aberrant splicing is suspected, although deeper intronic variants can also alter splicing. We have identified a novel (NM_213599.2:c.1180+6T>C) ANO5 variant that causes the exclusion of exon 12. The mutation, identified in a Roma individual, has an estimated carrier rate of 1.68% among the Iberian Roma population, this being the first ANO5 pathogenic variant communicated in this ethnic group. In this study, we have also characterized the ANO5 splice forms expressed in human muscle with the detection of an alternative transcript, in which exons 8 and 9 are spliced out.
Clinical and etiological analysis of co‐infections and secondary infections in COVID‐19 patients: An observational study
Authors: Chen Shuyan , Zhu Qing , Xiao Yanyu , Wu Chi , Jiang Zhaofang , Liu Lei , Qu Jiuxin
Published: April 2021

Background

Co‐infections, secondary bacterial or fungal infections, are important risk factors for poor outcomes in viral infections. The prevalence of co‐infection and secondary infection in patients infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 is not well understood.

Aims

To investigate the role of co‐infections and secondary infections in disease severity of hospitalized individuals with COVID‐19.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective study was carried out between 11 January 2020 and 1 March 2020 among 408 laboratory confirmed COVID‐19 patients in China. These patients were divided into three groups based on disease severity: mild or moderate, severe, or critically ill. Microbiological pathogens in blood, urine, and respiratory tract specimens were detected by the combination of culture, serology, polymerase chain reaction, and metagenomic next‐generation sequencing (mNGS).

Results

The median age of participants was 48 years (IQR 34–60 years). Fifty‐two patients (12.7%) had at least one additional pathogen, 8.1% were co‐infected, and 5.1% had a secondary infection. There were 13 Mycoplasma pneumoniae cases, 8 Haemophilus influenzae cases, 8 respiratory viruses, and 3 Streptococcus pneumoniae cases, primarily detected in mild and moderate COVID‐19 patients. Hospital‐acquired infection pathogens were more common in critically ill patients. Compared to those without additional pathogens, patients with co‐infections and/or secondary infections were more likely to receive antibiotics (p < 0.001) and have elevated levels of d‐dimer (p = 0.0012), interleukin‐6 (p = 0.0027), and procalcitonin (p = 0.0002). The performance of conventional culture was comparable with that of mNGS in diagnosis of secondary infections.

Conclusion

Co‐infections and secondary infections existed in hospitalized COVID‐19 patients and were relevant to the disease severity. Screening of common respiratory pathogens and hospital infection control should be strengthened.
Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato seroconversion after intravenous immunoglobulin treatment: A cohort study
Authors: Lucke Ilse M. , Vrijlandt Amber , Lim Johan , van der Kooi Anneke J. , van Schaik Ivo N. , Zaaijer Hans L. , Hovius Joppe W. , Eftimov Filip
Published: April 2021

Objective

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) consists of pooled donor immunoglobulins (IgG), possibly including anti‐Borrelia burgdorferi (Bbsl) antibodies. Apparent IVIg‐related Bbsl seroconversion could lead to incorrect diagnosis of Lyme borreliosis. This cohort study was designed to determine how often IVIg treatment leads to apparent Bbsl seroconversion and whether antibodies disappear post‐treatment.

Methods

Sera from chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) and myositis patients were analyzed, drawn pre‐treatment and 6–12 weeks after the start of IVIg. In patients with apparent seroconversion, follow‐up samples after treatment withdrawal were analyzed, if available. Patients treated with corticosteroids were included as controls. A two‐tier protocol was used for serological testing consisting of the C6 Lyme ELISA (Oxford Immunotec) and confirmation by immunoglobulin M (IgM) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) immunoblot (Mikrogen®).

Results

We included 61 patients: 51 patients were treated with IVIg and 10 with dexamethasone. Of the patients treated with IVIg, 42 had CIDP (82%) and were treated with Nanogam® (Sanquin Plasma Products). Nine patients had myositis (18%) and were treated with Privigen® (CSL Behring). Anti‐Bbsl IgG seroprevalence pre‐treatment was 3% (2/61). Apparent seroconversion during IVIg treatment occurred in 39% (20/51) of patients, all treated with Nanogam. Post‐treatment seroreversion occurred in 92% (12/13) of patients with available follow‐up samples; in 78% (7/9) seroreversion was observed within 3 months.

Conclusions

Transient presence of anti‐Bbsl IgG antibodies after IVIg is regularly observed. This effect appears to be dependent on the IVIg brand, probably reflecting variation in Bbsl exposure of plasma donors. Lyme borreliosis serological testing during, and weeks to months after, IVIg is therefore of limited utility.
Religious Coping and Gender Moderate Trajectories of Marital Love among Black Couples
Authors: Jenkins August I. C. , Fredman Steffany J. , Le Yunying , Mogle Jacqueline A. , McHale Susan M.
Published: April 2021

An increasing body of work documents the roles of religion and spirituality in Black American marriages. We built on this research to examine religious coping as a potential cultural resource for Black marriages using a dyadic analytic approach with longitudinal data. Specifically, we investigated the effects of positive (i.e., sense of spiritual connectedness) and negative (i.e., spiritual tension or struggle) religious coping on trajectories of marital love reported by wives and husbands in 161 Black, married, mixed‐gender couples, and we tested the potential moderating role of spouse gender. At baseline, spouses reported on their religious coping, and they rated their marital love at baseline and during two additional home interviews conducted annually. Data were analyzed using growth curve modeling within an Actor‐Partner Interdependence Modeling framework. Husbands who reported more positive religious coping at baseline exhibited relatively high and stable marital love over time, whereas those who reported less positive religious coping reported less love at baseline and exhibited declines in love over time. Wives who reported less negative religious coping at baseline were higher in marital love initially but showed declines over time, whereas those who reported more negative religious coping at baseline were lower in marital love initially but showed increases in love over time. Results highlight the importance of further research on the role of religion and religious coping in Black couples’ marital experiences and suggest differential roles of positive and negative religious coping for men’s and women’s marital love. Clinical and policy implications are discussed.
Comparison of clinical outcomes and FOXP3, IL‐17A responses in Helicobacter pylori infection in children versus adults
Authors: Yörgüç Eda , Gülerman Hacer Fulya , Kalkan İsmail Hakkı , Güven Burcu , Balcı Mahi , Yörgüç Mustafa Çağlar
Published: April 2021

Background

The purpose of this study was to compare the clinical symptoms and pathological consequences of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection between children and adults and determine the levels of expression of FOX3P and IL‐17A to examine the Th17/Treg balance.

Methods

Forty pediatric and 40 adult patients who were followed up at the Pediatric Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine Gastroenterology Departments were enrolled in the study. In our case‐control study, gastric tissue specimens were evaluated using the updated Sydney system, and the number of cells expressing FOXP3/IL‐17A (Treg and Th17 cell markers) was analyzed immunohistochemically. In addition, each case was evaluated using a clinical follow‐up questionnaire.

Results

Clinical signs and symptoms of children and adults were similar. IL‐17A and FOXP3 levels were significantly higher in children and adults with H. pylori (+) than in those without H. pylori (−) (p < .001). In patients with H. pylori (+), the mean FOXP3 level was significantly higher, whereas the mean IL‐17A level was significantly lower in children than in adults (p < 0001 for both groups). In children with H. pylori (+), bacterial density was negatively correlated with IL‐17A level and positively correlated with FOXP3 level. In adults with H. pylori (+), there was a statistically significant, highly positive correlation between bacterial density and levels of IL‐17A and FOXP3.

Conclusions

Treg cells are suggested to more predominant in children than in adults, IL‐17A levels decrease as H. pylori bacterial density increases. In conclusion, immune responses incline toward Treg, which increases the susceptibility to persistent infections.
Salivary counts ofStreptococcus mutansandLactobacillusin patients with and without cleft lip and/or palate undergoing orthodontic treatment: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Vale Francisco , Correia Liliana , Guimarães Adriana , Caramelo Francisco , Francisco Inês
Published: April 2021

Objective

To conduct a systematic review with meta‐analysis to assess if cleft lip and palate (CLP) patients undergoing orthodontic treatment have a higher colonization ofStreptococcus mutansand Lactobacillus than patients without this condition.

Methods

Five electronic databases were searched systematically. The inclusion criteria were as follows: randomized clinical trials, non‐randomized, or quasi‐randomized controlled trials, prospective and retrospective studies published until March, 2021; articles that evaluatedS. mutans and Lactobacillusprofile in patients with and without cleft lip and palate undergoing orthodontic treatment. The random‐effect model was used to perform the analysis of all the data collected. Statistic heterogeneity was evaluated withI2test.

Results

In this systematic review, 2 cohort studies were included. The data analysis from 160 patients revealed that patients without cleft lip and palate had 4.5 times more predisposition to oral colonization withS. mutansthan CLP patients. No statistical significant difference was found between these patients for colonization withLactobacillus.

Conclusions

Despite the limitations in the included studies, this systematic review suggested that CLP patients have a lower predisposition to oral colonization withS. mutanswhen compared to healthy patients.
Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans in pregnancy: a case series and review of the literature
Authors: Kibbi Nour , Wang David , Wang Wei‐Lien , Galan Anjela , Leffell David J. , Christensen Sean R. , Panse Gauri
Published: April 2021

Background

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a rare cutaneous sarcoma, which has been reported in pregnancy. This case series reports the clinical and histopathological findings of DFSP in pregnancy.

Methods

Eighteen cases of DFSP, including six unreported cases and 12 cases from the literature, were identified. Age, anatomic location, tumor size, changes in tumor characteristics during pregnancy, histopathological features, and treatment were recorded. Follow‐up data, when available, were noted.

Results

The average age of the cohort was 30.6 years (range 19–38). Ten tumors (55.6%) were located on the trunk, four (22.2%) on the head and neck, three (16.7%) on the extremities, and one (5.6%) in the genitalia. Most tumors demonstrated features of conventional DFSP (12/18, 66.7%), while the remaining were identified as DFSP with fibrosarcomatous (FS) change (3/18, 16.7%), atrophic DFSP (2/18, 11.1%), and myxoid DFSP (1/18, 5.6%). Treatment was reported in 17 cases, at least nine of which were treated postpartum. Ten patients were treated with excision, while seven underwent Mohs micrographic surgery. Three patients recurred on follow‐up, one with local recurrence and two with distant metastasis.

Conclusions

DFSP can undergo enlargement or change in size or color in pregnancy, possibly mediated by hormones. While the majority of cases in this series represented conventional DFSP, unusual clinical and histopathological variants were also present. Treatment in most cases can be safely delayed until after delivery, but recurrent or very large tumors may require treatment prepartum. Close monitoring for recurrence or metastasis is advised.
International joint ventures, technology licensing and ownership structure
Authors: Beladi Hamid , Hu May , Lee Tan (Charlene)
Published: April 2021

To enter into a host country market with significant technological distance, a multinational corporation forms a joint venture affiliate with a local partner and collects licensing royalties from the affiliate. Both parties to the joint venture simultaneously decide their respective equity shares and the capital capacity of a continuous investment project via Nash bargaining. Since the multinational corporation receives licensing royalties from its local partner, it will therefore hold a share smaller than its relative bargaining power. In addition, the multinational firm will demand a larger ownership share if the royalty rate is lower, or the repurchase price of capital becomes lower. The joint venture firm will install a higher capital capacity when entering the host‐country market if the price either to repurchase or to resell capital becomes higher. This capacity installation decision, however, will not be affected by the licensing royalty rate.
Nanoliposomal encapsulation of chia oil for sustained delivery of α‐linolenic acid
Authors: Choudhary Pintu , Dutta Sayantani , Moses Jeyan A. , Anandharamakrishnan Chinnaswamy
Published: April 2021

Chia oil is a popular source of ω‐3 fatty acids, typically α‐linolenic acid. This study reports the encapsulation of chia oil in nanoliposome to protect ω‐3 fatty acids and to obtain a sustained release of chia oil during digestion. Nanoliposomal encapsulation was carried out using solvent evaporation, followed by sonication. The encapsulation process was conducted using different lipid contents, with different concentrations of soy phosphatidylcholine (S), Tween 80 (T) and volumes of the aqueous phase. The maximum encapsulation efficiency was found to be 88.31%, and the average particle size was 49.25 nm; a moderate repulsion among the particles was observed. Differential scanning calorimetry study revealed enhanced thermal stability of chia oil in nanoliposomes. A negligible release (3.39%) of encapsulated chia oil was observed in the simulated gastric fluid, and a 74.72% sustained release was recorded in the simulated intestinal fluid. This formulation can be a suitable supplement of ω‐3 fatty acids for food and therapeutic applications.