bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Work-life balance and male lawyers: a socially constructed and dynamic process
Authors: Boiarintseva Galina , Richardson Julia
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to theorize men’s experiences of work-life balance in male-dominated, high-performance industries.

Design/methodology/approach

This study provides an in-depth qualitative study comprising interviews and informal conversations with male lawyers in Canada.

Findings

This study highlights the socially constructed nature of male lawyers’ experiences of work-life balance and the recursive impact of industry, professional and societal expectations and norms.

Research limitations/implications

A relatively small sample size, suggesting the need for further study with a larger and more diverse sample. The study was conducted in Canada – other national contexts may furnish different results.

Practical implications

This study identifies the need for greater awareness of how institutional, professional and societal expectations and norms impact on men’s experiences of work-life balance in male-dominated, high-performance industries.

Social implications

This paper indicates that greater attention needs to be paid to work-life balance among men in male-dominated, high-performance industries.

Originality/value

This paper explores men’s experiences of work-life balance in a male-dominated industry within an interpretivist paradigm.
Why happy employees help
Authors: De Clercq Dirk , Haq Inam Ul , Azeem Muhammad Umer
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Drawing from conservation of resources theory, the purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between employees’ job satisfaction and helping behaviour, and, particularly, how it may be moderated by two personal resources (work meaningfulness and collectivistic orientation) and one organisational resource (organisational support).

Design/methodology/approach

Quantitative data were collected from a survey administered to employees and their supervisors in a Pakistani-based organisation.

Findings

The usefulness of job satisfaction for stimulating helping behaviour is greater when employees believe that their work activities are meaningful, emphasise collective over individual interests, and believe that their employer cares for their well-being.

Practical implications

The results inform organisations about the circumstances in which they can best leverage employees’ positive job energy, which arises from their job satisfaction, to encourage their voluntary assistance of other organisational members.

Originality/value

This study extends research on positive work behaviours by examining the concurrent roles that job satisfaction and several contingent factors play in promoting employee helping behaviour. In particular, it highlights the invigorating effects of these factors on the usefulness of the enthusiasm that employees feel about their job situation for increasing their willingness to extend help to other members, on a voluntary basis.
Factors influencing leave intentions among older workers: a moderated-mediation model
Authors: Bentley Timothy Andrew , Teo Stephen T. , Catley Bevan , Blackwood Kate , Roche Maree , O’Driscoll Michael P.
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The engagement and retention of older workers is a major concern for organisations and has been an increasing focus for human resource scholars internationally. Drawing on social exchange theory (SET), the purpose of this paper is to examine the conditions under which retention and engagement of older workers could be enhanced, together with the potential for perceptions of age discrimination to negatively influence these outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

The study surveyed a large sample of New Zealand workers aged 55 years and over from across 28 New Zealand organisations of varying size and from a wide range of industrial sectors. A moderated-mediation model was proposed to examine the relationship between perceived organisational support (POS) and intention to leave, the mediating effect of job engagement in this relationship, and the moderating influence of perceived age discrimination on this mediation.

Findings

While POS was negatively related to workers’ intention to quit, job engagement partially mediated this relationship. Age discrimination moderated this mediation. As perceived age discrimination increased, the mediation of job engagement was weakened as POS had less influence on the job engagement of older workers.

Research limitations/implications

Implications for human resource management practice include the importance of providing organisational support for older workers along with protections from age bias and discrimination.

Originality/value

The study is one of the first to apply SET to the context of older workers, and has extended the SET literature through its examination of the role of employee engagement as a mediator of this relationship, and how perceived age discrimination, as a negative aspect of the work environment, can negatively impact these relationships.
Autism, attributions and accommodations
Authors: Patton Eric
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) represent a growing segment of the population but face important obstacles in the workplace. Even for ASD individuals with the mildest form/highest-functioning type, unemployment is 80 percent, and many of those who work are underemployed. This in spite of the fact that these individuals are highly intelligent and capable of excellent work. The purpose of this paper is to present a model of the unique challenges that workers with ASD face in the modern workplace based on stigmas and discrimination surrounding mental health, attribution theory and the disconnect between behaviors common to neurodiverse individuals and some of the most researched theories in the field of organizational behavior. The goal of the paper is to encourage more empirical research focused specifically on ASD workers.

Design/methodology/approach

A review of the literature on ASD in juxtaposed to evidence-based social psychology and management theories to demonstrate the difficulties faced by individuals with ASD.

Findings

Recommendations for overcoming these barriers and using management theories to help integrate ASD workers are discussed.

Originality/value

Workers with ASD are a growing population in the workforce, but have received scant research attention. This is the first paper to link several theories to ASD and the hope is that subsequent research will illuminate these relationships empirically.
The work-life interface: a critical factor between work stressors and job satisfaction
Authors: Weale Victoria P. , Wells Yvonne D. , Oakman Jodi
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore job satisfaction, and how the work-life interface might affect job satisfaction, among residential aged care staff. The statistical package PROCESS was used to analyse the impacts of workplace stressors (poor safety climate, poor relationships with colleagues and poor relationships with management) and potential mediating variables that measured aspects of the work-life interface, specifically work-family conflict (WFC) and work-life balance.

Design/methodology/approach

This survey research was carried out through distribution of a paper-based questionnaire to approximately 800 permanent, fixed term and casual employees working in residential aged care. All job roles, including both direct care and support staff, were represented in the sample.

Findings

WFC and work-life balance act serially to mediate the relationships between workplace stressors and job satisfaction.

Research limitations/implications

Study participants were restricted to residential aged care facilities in the metropolitan Melbourne area, Australia, limiting generalisability of the findings.

Practical implications

The work-life interface is a legitimate concern for human resources managers. Implications include need for greater understanding of the contribution of work-life fit to job satisfaction. Interventions to improve job satisfaction should take into account how workplace stressors affect the work-life interface, as well as job-related outcomes. Enhanced work-life fit should improve job-related outcomes.

Originality/value

This paper explores the potential mediating roles of WFC and work-life balance on job satisfaction and demonstrates a pathway through which the work-life interface affects job satisfaction for workers in residential aged care.
Unpacking the relationship between high-performance work systems and innovation performance in SMEs
Authors: Shahzad Khuram , Arenius Pia , Muller Alan , Rasheed Muhammad Athar , Bajwa Sami Ullah
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the black box between high-performance work systems (HPWS) and innovation performance in small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Through application of the ability, motivation and opportunity (AMO) framework, the study examines the mediating roles of innovation-specific ability, motivation and voice behaviors between HPWS and SMEs’ innovation performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The hypotheses are tested on data collected through a self-administered questionnaire from 237 SMEs in Pakistan.

Findings

Findings indicate that human capital, motivation and employee voice fully mediate the relationship between HPWS and innovation performance in SMEs.

Research limitations/implications

The cross-sectional research design and self-reported measures warrant caution for the interpretation of findings. Future research may consider a longitudinal research design and objective measures.

Practical implications

SMEs need to invest in the adoption and implementation of HPWS that will develop innovation-specific abilities, motivation and voice behaviors simultaneously among employees that will lead to higher innovation performance.

Originality/value

This is the first study of its kind utilizing an AMO framework to investigate the underlying mechanism through which HPWS affect innovation performance in SMEs.
Getting to insight: the value and use of small data
Authors: Fahey Liam
Published: May 2019

Purpose

Defines a useful context for the concept of market insight and explains how “small data” can illuminate new pathways to such insight and potentially to better market strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

Using an illustrative case the article provides a guide to transforming “small data” into important strategy shaping insights.

Findings

By paying careful attention to such small data opportunities, fully assessing their inferences and vetting them thoroughly, strategist and marketers can discover insights that Big Data cannot deliver.

Originality/value

Small data as a source of learning is not just neglected but disparaged in many organizations. The importance of such small data escalates when we recognize that they frequently serve as the early indicator of marketplace change that may not be observable by other means.
Do tourists’ emotional experiences influence images and intentions in yoga tourism?
Authors: Sharma Pramod , Nayak Jogendra Kumar
Published: May 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of tourists’ emotional experiences on predicting behavioral intentions via cognitive, affective and overall image in yoga tourism.

Design/methodology/approach

This study was conducted using data collected from 398 tourists visiting a yoga tourism destination in India. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling were used in analyzing the collected data.

Findings

The study confirmed that specific tourists’ emotions act as a predictor of cognitive, affective and overall image. This in turn influenced the behavioral intentions of tourists. The effect of specific emotions on affective image was stronger than on cognitive image in yoga tourism.

Practical implications

The marketing campaign of yoga tourism should highlight the special benefits of yoga to activate, stimulate and influence tourists toward yoga tourism, thereby improving the flow of future tourists. It would also help in better positioning and promoting yoga tourism as a unique and distinct niche tourism market.

Originality/value

This study contributed to the literature by understanding the predictive power of specific emotions on behavioral intentions via, cognitive, affective and overall image in yoga tourism. As far as the authors’ knowledge is concerned, this study is first known attempt to investigate such relationships in tourism literature.
Molecular diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori antibiotic resistance in the Taif region, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Eed Emad M. , Hawash Yousry A. , Khalifa Amany S. , Alsharif Khalaf F. , Alghamdi Saleh A. , Saber Taisir , Ismail Khadiga A. , Shehab‐Eldeen Somaia A.
Published: May 2019

Success in eradication of Helicobacter pylori is declining globally because H. pylori has developed resistance against most of the antibiotics proposed for eradication regimens, mainly through point mutations. The present study included 200 patients with dyspepsia attending Taif Hospital. Gastric biopsies were obtained during gastroscopy and subjected to rapid urease testing. Molecular methods were used to confirm diagnoses of H. pylori infection and to identify resistance gene variants of four antibiotics; namely, clarithromycin, metronidazole, fluoroquinolones and tetracycline (23S rRNA, gyrA, rdxA and 16S rRNA respectively). Of all investigated patients, Molecular diagnoses were made in 143 of all investigated patients; thus, the prevalence was .5%. The overall rate of resistance to clarithromycin among the H. pylori‐positive patients was high (39.9%) and the rate of resistance significantly greater (48.2%) among the secondary resistance group, secondary resistance being defined as resistance as a result of previous exposure to the relevant antibiotic. The rate of resistance to fluoroquinolones was considered moderate; the difference in rate of resistance between the primary and secondary resistance groups (8.4% and 9.5%, respectively) was not significant Also, there was a low prevalence of both primary and the secondary tetracycline resistance in the study cohort. In contrast, the prevalence of metronidazole resistance was considered high with no significant difference between the two resistance groups. H. pylori showed an increased prevalence of resistance to all four of the commonly used therapeutic agents. Thus, eradication therapy should be based on the regional results of susceptibility testing. Moreover, treatment tailored according to individually determined H. pylori susceptibility may be a reasonable future goal.
Molecular characteristics of microbially mediated transformations of Synechococcus‐derived dissolved organic matter as revealed by incubation experiments
Authors: Zheng Qiang , Chen Qi , Cai Ruanhong , He Chen , Guo Weidong , Wang Yu , Shi Quan , Chen Chang , Jiao Nianzhi
Published: May 2019

In this study, we investigated the microbially mediated transformation of labile Synechococcus‐derived DOM to RDOM using a 60‐day experimental incubation system. Three phases of TOC degradation activity (I, II and III) were observed following the addition of Synechococcus‐derived DOM. The phases were characterized by organic carbon consumption rates of 8.77, 1.26 and 0.16 μmol L−1 day−1, respectively. Excitation emission matrix analysis revealed the presence of three FDOM components including tyrosine‐like, fulvic acid‐like, and humic‐like molecules. The three components also exhibited differing biological availabilities that could be considered as labile DOM (LDOM), semi‐labile DOM (SLDOM) and RDOM, respectively. DOM molecular composition was also evaluated using FT‐ICR MS. Based on differing biological turnover rates and normalized intensity values, a total of 1704 formulas were identified as candidate LDOM, SLDOM and RDOM molecules. Microbial transformation of LDOM to RDOM tended to proceed from high to low molecular weight, as well as from molecules with high to low double bond equivalent (DBE) values. Relatively higher aromaticity was observed in the formulas of RDOM molecules relative to those of LDOM molecules. FDOM components provide valuable proxy information to investigate variation in the bioavailability of DOM. These results suggest that coordinating fluorescence spectroscopy and FT‐ICR MS of DOM, as conducted here, is an effective strategy to identify and characterize LDOM, SLDOM and RDOM molecules in incubation experiments emulating natural systems. The results described here provide greater insight into the metabolism of phytoplankton photosynthate by heterotrophic bacteria in marine environments.
Adoption and Ex‐post Impacts of Improved Cowpea Varieties on Productivity and Net Returns in Nigeria
Authors: Manda Julius , Alene Arega D. , Tufa Adane H. , Abdoulaye Tahirou , Kamara Alpha Y. , Olufajo Olusoji , Boukar Ousmane , Manyong Victor M.
Published: May 2019

Cowpea covers the largest area of any grain legume in Africa and is especially important in West Africa where Nigeria and Niger alone account for over 75% of the total cowpea production in the world. Despite successes of international and national cowpea improvement research in the development and release of several improved varieties, there is limited empirical evidence of adoption and ex‐post impacts of improved cowpea. Using a nationally representative survey data from a sample of 1,525 cowpea‐growing households in northern Nigeria cultivating over 2,500 cowpea plots, we assess the adoption and impacts of improved cowpea varieties on cowpea yields, net returns and production costs. We apply a control function approach and propensity score matching models to estimate the causal effects of adoption of improved cowpea varieties. Our results show that 38% of the cowpea plots were planted with improved varieties, and cowpea yields, net returns and production costs increase significantly with the adoption of improved cowpea varieties. Adoption of improved cowpea varieties is associated on average with 26% yield gains, 61% increase in net returns and 14% increase in production costs. We also show that farmers who have a lower propensity to adopt improved cowpea varieties also face higher costs of production.
Forty Years of Price Transmission Research in the Food Industry: Insights, Challenges and Prospects: Comment
Authors: W. Kinnucan Henry ,   [With reply from Tim Lloyd]
Published: May 2019

Lloyd's review of the literature on food price transmission in the Journal of Agricultural Economics (2017) is incomplete in that it omits discussion of technical change and international trade. The purpose of this Comment is to explain why these topics are essential for a proper understanding of price transmission. As a by‐product of the discussion, I show that the pass‐through and pass‐back equations that serve as the basis for Lloyd's theoretical insights are more general than one might think based on Gardner's (American Journal of Agricultural Economics, 1975) discussion of these equations.
A Real Options Model of Real Estate Development with Entitlement Risk
Authors: Cheng Yiying , Clark Steven P. , Womack Kiplan S.
Published: May 2019

Most development projects encounter a highly uncertain entitlement process that is largely uncontrollable by developers. In this study, entitlement is modeled as a separate stage within a compound real option, where developers begin with minimal control (maximum risk) and each successful stage increases control (decreases risk). We solve the model analytically, provide three‐dimensional numerical comparisons, and empirically test the model's predictions using hand collected rezoning petitions. Our main result refines the classic development option model: developers first invest early (secure entitlements) in order to obtain the option to subsequently delay investment (construct the optimal building at the optimal time).
Ultralow dose computed tomography protocol for hook‐wire localization of solitary pulmonary nodules prior to video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery
Authors: Liu Bo , Fang Jie , Jia Haipeng , Sun Zhigang , Liao Jian , Meng Hong , Pan Fengmin , Li Chunhai
Published: May 2019

Background

This study prospectively investigated the efficacy and radiation dose of ultralow dose computed tomography (CT)‐guided hook‐wire localization (HWL) at 100 kV with tin filtration (100Sn kV) for small solitary pulmonary nodules.

Methods

All HWL procedures were performed on a third generation dual‐source CT system. Eighty‐eight consecutive patients undergoing CT‐guided HWL were randomly assigned to standard dose CT (Group A: n = 44; reference 110 kV and 50 mA) or ultralow dose CT (Group B: n =44; 100Sn kV and 96 mA) protocols. The technical success rate, complications, subjective image quality, and radiation dose were compared between the groups.

Results

The mean volume CT dose index and total dose‐length product were significantly lower in Group B compared to Group A (0.32 mGy vs. 3.2 ± 1.1 mGy and 12.1 ± 0.97 mGy‐cm vs. 120 ± 40.6 mGy‐cm; P < 0.001). The effective dose in Group B was significantly lower than in Group A (0.17 ± 0.01 mSv vs. 1.68 ± 0.57 mSv, ‐89.8%; P < 0.001). The technical success rates were 100% for both groups. There were no significant differences in complication rates between the protocols (P > 0.05). The image quality of ultralow dose CT met the requirements for HWL procedure.

Conclusion

Ultralow dose CT‐guided HWL of solitary pulmonary nodules performed at 100Sn kVp spectral shaping significantly reduced the radiation dose compared to standard dose CT, with high technical success and acceptable patient safety.
Auditing and the Development of the Modern State
Authors: Free Clinton , Radcliffe Vaughan S. , Spence Crawford , Stein Mitchell J.
Published: May 2019

Previous research has highlighted the crucial roles that accounting plays in both the construction and development of the state. However, only limited attention has been paid to how accounting is both conceived and implemented as a technology of government. Taking a historical perspective, and through extensive archival analysis of the Canadian experience, we explore here the ways in which accounting practices were significantly expanded and elaborated over time. Progressively, accounting was successful in increasingly infiltrating the machinery of the state, resulting in greater power and influence being accorded to state accounting professionals. We contribute to existing governmentality research on accounting in two principal ways. First, we demonstrate how the territorializing power of accounting has transnational dimensions. The Canadian initiative was galvanized by simultaneous initiatives taking place in the United Kingdom, the United States, and a range of other Commonwealth nations. The similar trajectories of these various initiatives leads to a view of accounting as something that is co‐constructed across borders, a process we refer to here as transnational territorialization. Second, we demonstrate the crucial role played by key individuals in this transnational territorialization. Auditors general worked both individually and in concert to skillfully sell the evaluative potential of accounting to key power brokers in the state apparatus, thereby creating advantageous positions for themselves. This highlights the crucial role required by skillful and reflexive social agents in the elaboration of accounting technologies, something that hitherto has been underappreciated in extant literature on both auditing and governmentality.
Transcriptomic analysis of human IL‐7 receptor alpha low and high effector memory CD8+ T cells reveals an age‐associated signature linked to influenza vaccine response in older adults
Authors: Park Hong‐Jai , Shin Min Sun , Kim Minhyung , Bilsborrow Joshua B. , Mohanty Subhasis , Montgomery Ruth R. , Shaw Albert C. , You Sungyong , Kang Insoo
Published: May 2019

Here, we investigated the relationship of the age‐associated expansion of IL‐7 receptor alpha low (IL‐7Rαlow) effector memory (EM) CD8+ T cells with the global transcriptomic profile of peripheral blood cells in humans. We found 231 aging signature genes of IL‐7Rαlow EM CD8+ T cells that corresponded to 15% of the age‐associated genes (231/1,497) reported by a meta‐analysis study on human peripheral whole blood from approximately 15,000 individuals, having high correlation with chronological age. These aging signature genes were the target genes of several transcription factors including MYC, SATB1, and BATF, which also belonged to the 231 genes, supporting the upstream regulatory role of these transcription factors in altering the gene expression profile of peripheral blood cells with aging. We validated the differential expression of these transcription factors between IL‐7Rαlow and high EM CD8+ T cells as well as in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of young and older adults. Finally, we found a significant association with influenza vaccine responses in older adults, suggesting the possible biological significance of the aging signature genes of IL‐7Rαlow EM CD8+ T cells. The results of our study support the relationship of the expansion of IL‐7Rαlow EM CD8+ T cells with the age‐associated changes in the gene expression profile of peripheral blood cells and its possible biological implications.
Affective Behavior in Withdrawal Seizure–Prone and Withdrawal Seizure–Resistant Mice during Long‐Term Alcohol Abstinence
Authors: Hartmann Matthew C. , Holbrook Sarah E. , Haney Megan M. , Crabbe John C. , Rosenwasser Alan M.
Published: May 2019

Background

While the acute alcohol withdrawal syndrome has been well characterized both in human clinical studies and in experimental animals, much less is known regarding long‐term affective disturbances that can sometimes persist during protracted abstinence. Nevertheless, since relapse often occurs long after acute detoxification and may be predicted by persistent affective disruption, a better understanding of the long‐term behavioral consequences of prior alcohol dependence may lead to improved strategies for relapse prevention.

Methods

Male and female Withdrawal Seizure–Prone and Withdrawal Seizure–Resistant mice from the second selection replicate (WSP‐2, WSR‐2) were exposed to a 10‐day chronic‐intermittent ethanol vapor protocol (CIE) or plain air and then tested repeatedly on the sucrose preference test (SPT), marble burying test (MBT), and the light–dark box test (LDT) over 7 weeks of (forced) abstinence.

Results

While WSP and WSR mice differed significantly on tests of anxiety‐like behavior (LDT, MBT), we found little evidence for long‐term affective disruption following CIE in either line. The major exception was in the LDT, in that WSP but not WSR mice displayed longer latencies to enter the light compartment following CIE relative to air‐controls.

Conclusions

Selective breeding for acute withdrawal severity has resulted in differences in anxiety‐like behavior between WSP and WSR mice. In contrast, however, genes contributing to the severity of acute withdrawal convulsions appear to have little overlap with those predisposing to affective disruption during long‐term abstinence.
miR‐10a‐5p is increased in atopic dermatitis and has capacity to inhibit keratinocyte proliferation
Authors: Vaher Helen , Runnel Toomas , Urgard Egon , Aab Alar , Carreras Badosa Gemma , Maslovskaja Julia , Abram Kristi , Raam Liisi , Kaldvee Bret , Annilo Tarmo , Tkaczyk Eric R. , Maimets Toivo , Akdis Cezmi A. , Kingo Külli , Rebane Ana
Published: May 2019

Background

miR‐10a‐5p has been shown to regulate cancer cell proliferation and invasiveness and endothelial cell inflammatory responses. The function of miR‐10a‐5p in the skin has not been previously studied. The aim of the current study was to examine miR‐10a‐5p expression, regulation, and function in keratinocytes (KCs) in association with atopic dermatitis (AD).

Methods

The expression of miR‐10a‐5p and its target genes was analyzed using RT‐qPCR, mRNA array analysis, in situ hybridization, and immunofluorescence. The transfection of miRNA mimics, cell cycle distribution analysis, and luciferase assays was used to study miR‐10a‐5p functions in human primary KCs.

Results

miR‐10a‐5p was found to be upregulated in lesional skin from patients with AD and in proliferating KCs. Array and pathway analysis of IL‐1β‐stimulated KCs revealed that miR‐10a‐5p inhibited many genes that affect cell cycle progression and only a few inflammation‐related genes. Accordingly, fewer cells in S‐phase and reduced proliferation were detected as characteristics of miR‐10a‐5p‐transfected KCs. The influence of miR‐10a‐5p on cell proliferation was also evident in KCs induced by AD‐related cytokines, including IL‐4, IL‐17, and IL‐1β, as measured by the capacity to strongly suppress the expression of the proliferation marker Ki‐67. Among AD‐related putative direct target genes, we verified hyaluronan synthase 3, a damage‐associated positive regulator of KC migration and proliferation, as a direct target of miR‐10a‐5p.

Conclusions

miR‐10a‐5p inhibits KC proliferation and directly targets hyaluronan synthase 3 and thereby may modulate AD‐associated processes in the skin.
The clinical benefit of mepolizumab replacing omalizumab in uncontrolled severe eosinophilic asthma
Authors: Chapman Kenneth R. , Albers Frank C. , Chipps Bradley , Muñoz Xavier , Devouassoux Gilles , Bergna Miguel , Galkin Dmitry , Azmi Jay , Mouneimne Dalal , Price Robert G. , Liu Mark C.
Published: May 2019

Background

Mepolizumab and omalizumab are treatments for distinct but overlapping severe asthma phenotypes.

Objective

To assess if patients eligible for both biologics but not optimally controlled with omalizumab experience improved asthma control when switched directly to mepolizumab.

Methods

OSMO was a multicenter, open‐label, single‐arm, 32‐week trial in patients with ≥2 asthma exacerbations in the year prior to enrollment, despite receiving high‐dose inhaled corticosteroids and other controller(s), plus omalizumab (≥4 months). At baseline, patients with blood eosinophil counts ≥150 cells/µL (or ≥300 cells/µL in the prior year) and an Asthma Control Questionnaire (ACQ)‐5 score ≥1.5 discontinued omalizumab and immediately commenced mepolizumab 100 mg subcutaneously every 4 weeks. Endpoints included change from baseline in ACQ‐5 score (primary), St George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ) score and the proportions of ACQ‐5 and SGRQ responders, all at Week 32, and the annualized exacerbation rate over the study period.

Results

At Week 32 (intent‐to‐treat population [n = 145]), the least squares (LS) mean changes (standard error [SE]) in ACQ‐5 and SGRQ total scores were −1.45 (0.107) and −19.0 (1.64) points; with 77% and 79% of patients achieving the minimum clinically important differences (ACQ‐5: ≥0.5 points; SGRQ: ≥4 points), respectively. The annualized rate of clinically significant exacerbations was 1.18 events/year, a 64% reduction from 3.26 events/year during the previous year. Safety and immunogenicity profiles were consistent with previous trials.

Conclusion

After directly switching from omalizumab to mepolizumab, patients with uncontrolled severe eosinophilic asthma experienced clinically significant improvements in asthma control, health status, and exacerbation rate, with no tolerability issues reported.
Epithelial dynamics in the epididymis: role in the maturation, protection, and storage of spermatozoa
Authors: Breton S. , Nair A. V. , Battistone M. A.
Published: May 2019

Epithelial cells line the lumen of tubular organs and are key players in their respective functions. They establish a unique luminal environment by providing a protective barrier and by performing vectorial transport of ions, nutrients, solutes, proteins, and water. Complex intercellular communication networks, specific for each organ, ensure their interaction with adjacent epithelial and non‐epithelial cells, allowing them to respond to and modulate their immediate environment. In the epididymis, several epithelial cell types work in a concerted manner to establish a luminal acidic milieu that is essential for the post‐testicular maturation and storage of spermatozoa. The epididymis also prevents autoimmune responses against auto‐antigenic spermatozoa, while ensuring protection against ascending and blood pathogens. This is achieved by a network of immune cells that are in close contact and interact with epithelial cells. This review highlights the coordinated interactions between spermatozoa, basal cells, principal cells, narrow cells, clear cells, and immune cells that contribute to the maturation, protection, selection, and storage of spermatozoa in the lumen of the epididymis.
Epididymal small non‐coding RNA studies: progress over the past decade
Authors: Chu C. , Zhang Y. L. , Yu L. , Sharma S. , Fei Z. L. , Drevet J. R.
Published: May 2019

Background

Small non‐coding RNAs (sncRNAs) accomplish a huge variety of biological functions. Over the past decade, we have witnessed the substantial progress in the epididymal sncRNA studies. In the Epididymis 7, we had the true privilege of having a whole session to share our findings and exchange ideas on the epididymal sncRNA studies.

Objectives

This mini‐review attempts to provide an overview of what is known about the sncRNAs in the mammalian epididymis and discuss the future directions in this field.

Methods

We surveyed literature regarding the sncRNA studies in the mammalian epididymis, and integrated some of our unpublished findings as well. We focus on the progress in methodology and the advances in our understanding of the expression and functions of epididymal sncRNAs.

Results and Discussion

The applications of high‐throughput approaches have made great contributions in the discovery of new sncRNA species and profiling their dynamics in the epithelial cells, the passing spermatozoa, and the luminal environment. The diverse classes of epididymal sncRNAs exert important biological functions from the in situ regulation of epididymal gene expression to the epigenetic inheritance in the offspring.

Conclusion

Although still in its infancy, we believe that the research on epididymal sncRNAs will not only lead to a better understanding of their physiological and pathological functions, but also contribute to the whole landscape of the RNA field.
Paraproteinemic keratopathy associated with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS): clinical findings in twelve patients including recurrence after keratoplasty
Authors: Skalicka Pavlina , Dudakova Lubica , Palos Michalis , Huna Lukas J. , Evans Cerys J. , Mahelkova Gabriela , Meliska Martin , Stopka Tomas , Tuft Stephen , Liskova Petra
Published: May 2019

Purpose

To describe the ocular findings of 12 subjects with paraproteinemic keratopathy associated with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS).

Methods

Ocular examination included corneal spectral domain optical coherence tomography. In three individuals with an initial diagnosis of a lattice or Thiel–Behnke corneal dystrophy, the TGFBI gene was screened by conventional Sanger sequencing.

Results

We confirmed a diagnosis of MGUS by systemic examination and serum protein electrophoresis in 12 individuals (9 males and 3 females), with a mean age at presentation of 52.2 years (range 24–63 years) and mean follow‐up 6.4 years (range 0–17 years). The best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA) at presentation ranged from 1.25 to 0.32. In all individuals, the corneal opacities were bilateral. The appearances were diverse and included superficial reticular opacities and nummular lesions, diffuse posterior stromal opacity, stromal lattice lines, superficial and stromal crystalline deposits, superficial haze and a superficial ring of hypertrophic tissue. In one individual, with opacities first recorded at 24 years of age, we documented the progression of corneal disease over the subsequent 17 years. In another individual, despite systemic treatment for MGUS, recurrence of deposits was noted following bilateral penetrating keratoplasties. The three individuals initially diagnosed with inherited corneal dystrophy were negative for TGFBI mutations by direct sequencing.

Conclusion

A diagnosis of MGUS should be considered in patients with bilateral corneal opacities. The appearance can mimic corneal dystrophies or cystinosis. In our experience, systemic treatment of MGUS did not prevent recurrence of paraproteinemic keratopathy following keratoplasty.
Five‐year survival of infants with major congenital anomalies: a registry based study
Authors: Schneuer Francisco J. , Bell Jane C. , Shand Antonia W. , Walker Karen , Badawi Nadia , Nassar Natasha
Published: May 2019

Aim

To determine survival of infants with major congenital anomalies (CA) and assess the effect of co‐existing anomalies and gestational age.

Methods

All liveborn infants with major CA born in New South Wales (NSW), Australia, 2004–2009 were identified from the NSW Register of Congenital Conditions. Deaths were identified via record linkage to death registrations and five‐year survival was estimated using Kaplan–Meier methods.

Results

There were 8521 liveborn infants with CA of whom 617 (7.2%) died within the first five years of life. Half of deaths occurred in the first week of life. The overall five‐year survival rate was 92.8% (95%CI: 92.2–93.3) and 83.2% (95%CI: 79.0–87.4) for syndromes, 83.4% (95%CI: 80.9–85.9) for multiple, 85.1% (95%CI: 82.6–87.5) for chromosomal, 95.3% (95%CI: 94.8–95.8) for isolated and 96.2% (95%CI: 94.3–98.1) for non‐Q chapter anomalies. Five‐year survival for chromosomal, syndromes and sub‐groups was higher for isolated compared with multiple anomalies ranging from 77.5% to 98.9% and 68.6% to 89.5%, respectively. Survival was lower for preterm (79.4%; 95%CI: 77.5‐81.4) than for term infants (95.8%; 95%CI: 95.3–96.3).

Conclusion

Nine in ten infants with major CA survive up to five years, although there is variability in survival across CA groups. Survival of infants with major congenital anomalies has improved in recent years.
National currency, world currency, cryptocurrency: A Fichtean approach to the Ethics of Bitcoin
Authors: Scharding Tobey
Published: May 2019

I investigate ethical questions concerning a novel cryptocurrency, Bitcoin, using a Fichtean account of the ethics of currency. Fichte holds that currencies should fulfill an ethical purpose: providing access, in perpetuity, to the material welfare that underwrites citizens' basic rights. In his nineteenth‐century context, Fichte argues that currencies fulfill this purpose better when nations control them (i.e., when they are “national currencies”) than when foreigners freely trade them (as “world currencies”). After exploring conditions in which national currencies fail to secure material stability over time, e.g., in corrupt regimes, I develop a Fichtean model for ethically evaluating currencies and evaluate the extent to which Bitcoin meets its standards for ethical currency. I argue that Bitcoin undermines the (monetary) power of nations and, as such, threatens their ability to provide access to necessary material goods. While offering citizens a means of defending themselves against corrupt regimes, Bitcoin forsakes the general welfare and is, as such, unethical by Fichtean lights.
Anticholinergic medicines use among older adults before and after initiating dementia medicines
Authors: Narayan Sujita W. , Pearson Sallie‐Anne , Litchfield Melisa , Le Couteur David G. , Buckley Nicholas , McLachlan Andrew J. , Zoega Helga
Published: May 2019

Aims

We investigated anticholinergic medicines use among older adults initiating dementia medicines.

Methods

We used Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme dispensing claims to identify patients who initiated donepezil, rivastigmine, galantamine or memantine between 1 January 2013 and 30 June 2017 (after a period of ≥180 days with no dispensing of these medicines) and remained on therapy for ≥180 days (n = 4393), and dispensed anticholinergic medicines in the 180 days before and after initiating dementia medicines. We further examined anticholinergic medicines prescribed by a prescriber other than the one initiating dementia medicines.

Results

One‐third of the study cohort (1439/4393) was exposed to anticholinergic medicines up to 180 days before or after initiating dementia medicines. Among patients exposed to anticholinergic medicines, 46% (659/1439) had the same medicine dispensed before and after initiating dementia medicines. The proportion of patients dispensed anticholinergic medicines increased by 2.5% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.3–3.7) after initiating dementia medicines. Antipsychotics use increased by 10.1% (95% CI: 7.6–12.7) after initiating dementia medicines; driven by increased risperidone use (7.3%, 95% CI: 5.3–9.3). Nearly half of patients dispensed anticholinergic medicines in the 180 days after (537/1133), were prescribed anticholinergic medicines by a prescriber other than the one initiating dementia medicines.

Conclusion

Use of anticholinergic medicines is common among patients initiating dementia medicines and this occurs against a backdrop of widespread campaigns to reduce irrational medicine combinations in this vulnerable population. Decisions about deprescribing medicines with questionable benefit among patients with dementia may be complicated by conflicting recommendations in prescribing guidelines.
Acute myeloid leukaemia niche regulates response to L‐asparaginase
Authors: Michelozzi Ilaria M. , Granata Valentina , De Ponti Giada , Alberti Gaia , Tomasoni Chiara , Antolini Laura , Gambacorti‐Passerini Carlo , Gentner Bernhard , Dazzi Francesco , Biondi Andrea , Coliva Tiziana , Rizzari Carmelo , Pievani Alice , Serafini Marta
Published: May 2019

Eradicating the malignant stem cell is the ultimate challenge in the treatment of leukaemia. Leukaemic stem cells (LSC) hijack the normal haemopoietic niche, where they are mainly protected from cytotoxic drugs. The anti‐leukaemic effect of L‐asparaginase (ASNase) has been extensively investigated in acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, but only partially in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). We explored the susceptibility of AML‐LSC to ASNase as well as the role of the two major cell types that constitute the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment, i.e., mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) and monocytes/macrophages. Whilst ASNase was effective on both CD34+CD38+ and CD34+CD38− LSC fractions, MSC and monocytes/macrophages partially counteracted the effect of the drug. Indeed, the production of cathepsin B, a lysosomal cysteine protease, by BM monocytic cells and by AML cells classified as French‐American‐British M5 is related to the inactivation of ASNase. Our work demonstrates that, while MSC and monocytes/macrophages may provide a protective niche for AML cells, ASNase has a cytotoxic effect on AML blasts and, importantly, LSC subpopulations. Thus, these features should be considered in the design of future clinical studies aimed at testing ASNase efficacy in AML patients.
‘We Looked after People Better when We Were Informal’: The ‘Quasi‐Formalisation’ of Montevideo's Waste‐Pickers
Authors: O'HARE PATRICK
Published: May 2019

Drawing on participatory research, this article explores the state formalisation of Uruguayan clasificadores (waste‐pickers). It goes beyond the informal/formal binary, instead proposing the concepts of ‘para‐formality’ to describe economic activity that exists in parallel to regulated and taxed spheres, and ‘quasi‐formality’ to describe processes of formalisation that are supported by underlying informal practices. When unregulated, clasificadores enjoyed parallel services in health, finance and social security, implying that benefits of ‘formalisation’ must be explored ethnographically rather than assumed. The persistence of ‘quasi‐formal’ activity within formalised recycling plants complicates simple narratives of informal to formal transitions and suggests that the concept can be useful for the study of labour policies in Latin America and beyond.
Holocene small mammals hunted by owls and humans in southern Brazil: taphonomic evidence and biological significance
Authors: Fernández Fernando J. , Hadler Patrícia , Cherem Jorge J. , Saldanha João P. , Stutz Narla S. , Dias Adriana S. , Pardiñas Ulyses F. J.
Published: May 2019

Understanding resource utilization and economic diversification amongst Holocene hunter‐gatherers in southern Brazil requires in‐depth taphonomic analysis of faunal assemblages. Three Early to Late Holocene archaeological sites (Garivaldino, Pilger and Sangão) in Rio Grande do Sul State, southern Brazil, revealed large assemblages of small mammal (˂1 kg) remains, composed mainly of rodents. To appreciate depositional processes of fauna in relation to human consumption, taphonomic attributes and processes were evaluated. The results indicated that the remains accumulated through different antemortem taphonomic pathways, apparently linked to the size and natural history of the species represented. The small‐ and medium‐sized (<150 g) cricetid rodents (e.g. Pseudoryzomys simplex and Sooretamys angouya) were represented by a low proportion of teeth with lightly digestive corrosion suggesting that they were derived from the predatory activity of owls, possibly Tyto alba. In contrast, large‐sized cricetids (>150 g; Kunsia tomentosus, Gyldenstolpia sp. and Holochilus sp.), and several caviomorph rodents with aggregated spatial distributions (Echimyidae (†Dicolpomys fossor, Phyllomys sp., †Clyomys riograndensis and †Euryzygomatomys mordax), Caviidae (Cavia sp.) and Ctenomyidae (Ctenomys sp.)) showed evidence of thermoalteration patterns and cut marks on bones, suggesting human exploitation. A postmortem depositional environment was deduced from dendritic and branched patterns of rootlet etching, apparent mostly at Garivaldino and Pilger. Polished areas and holes on bone surfaces, and impregnation of manganese showed moderate (Sangão) or low (Garivaldino and Pilger) incidence, pointing to water transport under moderate (Pilger) and low (Garivaldino and Sangão) energy over short distances. The results obtained here provide the first clear evidence of early human exploitation of small mammals in southern Brazil, suggesting a diversification of economies. In addition, as several of the recorded rodents are today regionally or biologically extinct, a preliminary discussion about the potential impact of humans on this process is provided.
Fluctuations of the Fennoscandian Ice Sheet recorded in the anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility of periglacial loess from Ukraine
Authors: Nawrocki Jerzy , Bogucki Andrij B. , Gozhik Petro , Łanczont Maria , Pańczyk Magdalena , Standzikowski Karol , Komar Maryna , Rosowiecka Olga , Tomeniuk Olena
Published: May 2019

The azimuth of imbrication of minimum magnetic susceptibility axes in the youngest loess from Ukraine defines prevailing wind directions during aeolian sedimentation. It changes along the studied sections. These changes can be directly correlated with the fluctuations of the Fennoscandian Ice Sheet. The northern and northeastern winds noted in the loess succession separated by a period when southwestern to southeastern winds were predominant may be correlated with two main phases of ice‐sheet advance during the Last Glacial Maximum. The ice‐sheet advances towards the areas of loess deposition generated katabatic winds that influenced aeolian sedimentation in the periglacial zone. A period of relatively stable wind directions during a younger phase of the Last Glacial Maximum was interrupted by periods with more chaotic wind regime most probably caused by fluctuations of the Fennoscandian Ice Sheet during its retreat from the peri‐Baltic part of Europe. These intervals occur where initial soils developed. The distribution of anisotropy of magnetic susceptibility axes defined along the periglacial loess sections from central and eastern Europe can serve to constrain fluctuations of the Fennoscandian Ice Sheet.