bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Learners and Luddites in the Twenty-first Century
Authors: Martinelli Susan M. , Isaak Robert S. , Schell Randall M. , Mitchell John D. , McEvoy Matthew D. , Chen Fei
Published: July 2019

Anesthesiologists are both teachers and learners and alternate between these roles throughout their careers. However, few anesthesiologists have formal training in the methodologies and theories of education. Many anesthesiology educators often teach as they were taught and may not be taking advantage of current evidence in education to guide and optimize the way they teach and learn. This review describes the most up-to-date evidence in education for teaching knowledge, procedural skills, and professionalism. Methods such as active learning, spaced learning, interleaving, retrieval practice, e-learning, experiential learning, and the use of cognitive aids will be described. We made an effort to illustrate the best available evidence supporting educational practices while recognizing the inherent challenges in medical education research. Similar to implementing evidence in clinical practice in an attempt to improve patient outcomes, implementing an evidence-based approach to anesthesiology education may improve learning outcomes.
Outcomes of Sympathetic Blocks in the Management of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
Authors: Cheng Jianguo , Salmasi Vafi , You Jing , Grille Michael , Yang Dongsheng , Mascha Edward J. , Cheng Olivia T. , Zhao Feng , Rosenquist Richard W.
Published: July 2019

Editor’s Perspective

What We Already Know about This Topic

What This Article Tells Us That Is New

Background

Sympathetic dysfunction may be present in complex regional pain syndrome, and sympathetic blocks are routinely performed in practice. To investigate the therapeutic and predictive values of sympathetic blocks, the authors test the hypotheses that sympathetic blocks provide analgesic effects that may be associated with the temperature differences between the two extremities before and after the blocks and that the effects of sympathetic blocks may predict the success (defined as achieving more than 50% pain reduction) of spinal cord stimulation trials.

Methods

The authors performed a retrospective study of 318 patients who underwent sympathetic blocks in a major academic center (2009 to 2016) to assess the association between pain reduction and preprocedure temperature difference between the involved and contralateral limbs. The primary outcome was pain improvement by more than 50%, and the secondary outcome was duration of more than 50% pain reduction per patient report. The authors assessed the association between pain reduction and the success rate of spinal cord stimulation trials.

Results

Among the 318 patients, 255 were diagnosed with complex regional pain syndrome and others with various sympathetically related disorders. Successful pain reduction (more than 50%) was observed in 155 patients with complex regional pain syndrome (155 of 255, 61%). The majority of patients (132 of 155, 85%) experienced more than 50% pain relief for 1 to 4 weeks or longer. The degree and duration of pain relief were not associated with preprocedure temperature parameters with estimated odds ratio of 1.03 (97.5% CI, 0.95–1.11) or 1.01 (97.5% CI, 0.96–1.06) for one degree decrease (P = 0.459 or 0.809). There was no difference in the success rate of spinal cord stimulation trials between patients with or without more than 50% pain relief after sympathetic blocks (35 of 40, 88% vs. 26 of 29, 90%, P > 0.990).

Conclusions

The authors conclude that sympathetic blocks may be therapeutic in patients with complex regional pain syndrome regardless of preprocedure limb temperatures. The effects of sympathetic blocks do not predict the success of spinal cord stimulation.
Low birth weight and PM2.5 in Puerto Rico
Authors: Kirwa Kipruto , McConnell-Rios Rafael , Manjourides Justin , Cordero J. , Alshawabekeh A. , Suh Helen H.
Published: July 2019

Background:

Low birth weight (LBW) has been associated with adverse health outcomes across the lifespan. Among ethnic/racial minority populations, few studies have examined the association between LBW (<2,500 or ≥2,500 g) and prenatal exposure to air pollution, a key modifiable environmental risk factor.

Methods:

We examined the association between LBW and prenatal exposure to PM2.5 in a Hispanic and black population in Puerto Rico between 1999 and 2013, adjusting for individual and municipality-level confounders. We used modified Poisson regression to estimate the association and performed sensitivity analyses treating birth weight as continuous or polychotomous. In secondary analyses, we applied a 2-stage mixed effects model suitable for longitudinally measured exposures and binary outcomes.

Results:

Among 332,129 total and 275,814 term births, 12.2% and 6.3% of infants had LBW, respectively. Eighty-eight percent of mothers were Hispanic. Mean (SD) PM2.5 concentrations declined from 9.9 (1.7) µg/m3 in 1999 to 6.1 (1.1) µg/m3 in 2013. Mean birth weights dropped to 3,044 g in 2010 and rose steadily afterward. Among term births, a SD increase in PM2.5 was associated with a 3.2% (95% CI = −1.0%, 6.3%) higher risk of LBW. First (risk ratio, 1.02; 95% CI = 1.00, 1.04) and second (1.02; 95% CI = 1.01, 1.05) trimester exposures were associated with increased LBW risk. In a 2-stage approach that longitudinally modeled monthly prenatal exposure levels, a standard deviation increase in average PM2.5 was associated with higher risk of LBW (odds ratio, 1.04; 95% CI = 1.01, 1.08).

Conclusions:

In Puerto Rico, LBW is associated with prenatal PM2.5 exposure.
Return to Productivity Projections for Individuals With Moderate to Severe TBI Following Inpatient Rehabilitation: A NIDILRR TBIMS and CDC Interagency Collaboration
Authors: Pretz Christopher , Kowalski Robert G. , Cuthbert Jeffrey P. , Whiteneck Gale G. , Miller A. Cate , Ketchum Jessica M. , Dams-O'Connor Kristen
Published: July 2019

Objective:

Return to work and school following traumatic brain injury (TBI) is an outcome of central importance both to TBI survivors and to society. The current study estimates the probability of returning to productivity over 5 years following moderate to severe brain injury.

Design:

A secondary longitudinal analysis using random effects modeling, that is, individual growth curve analysis based on a sample of 2542 population-weighted individuals from a multicenter cohort study.

Setting:

Acute inpatient rehabilitation facilities.

Participants:

Individuals 16 years and older with a primary diagnosis of TBI who were engaged in school or work at the time of injury.

Main Outcome Measures:

Participation in productive activity, defined as employment or school, as reported during follow-up telephone interviews at 1, 2, and 5 years postinjury.

Results:

Baseline variables, age of injury, race, level of education and occupational category at the time of injury, disability rating at hospital discharge, substance abuse status, and rehabilitation length of stay, are significantly associated with probability of return to productivity. Individual-level productivity trajectories generally indicate that the probability of returning to productivity increases over time.

Conclusions:

Results of this study highlight the importance of preinjury occupational status and level of education in returning to productive activity following moderate to severe TBI.
Contemporary Microbiology and Antimicrobial Treatment of Complicated Appendicitis
Authors: Viel-Thériault Isabelle , Bettolli Marcos , Toye Baldwin , Harrison Mary-Ann , Le Saux Nicole
Published: July 2019

Background:

Antimicrobial stewardship interventions to curtail the use of third-generation cephalosporins and antipseudomonal penicillins for the treatment of complicated appendicitis in children are challenging given the tendency to treat complicated disease with broad-spectrum antimicrobials. Reasons for this are unclear, but there is a paucity of contemporary microbiologic data associated with the child presenting with either acute perforated or gangrenous appendicitis. This study aimed to justify the appropriateness of an empiric regimen consisting of ampicillin, tobramycin/gentamicin plus metronidazole and to analyze duration of postoperative therapy.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective cohort study from February 1, 2017, to October 31, 2018, in children who underwent appendectomy or interventional radiologic drainage for primary complicated appendicitis. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients who had a pathogen isolated from peritoneal fluid culture that was not susceptible to the recommended empiric therapy. The secondary outcomes were the total duration of antimicrobial therapy and the proportion of patients with a postoperative infectious complication within 30 days after intervention.

Results:

Of 425 children with primary acute appendicitis, 158 (37%) had complicated appendicitis at presentation. Culture was performed in 53 (40%) of the 133 who underwent a surgical or interventional radiologic intervention. The group with peritoneal cultures was more likely to present with longer symptom duration before admission [3 (interquartile range, 2–5) vs 2 (interquartile range, 1–2) days; P < 0.001] and with purulent peritonitis [47% (25/53) vs 13% (10/80); P < 0.001]. The most common pathogens isolated were anaerobes (81%), Escherichia coli (74%) and Streptococcus anginosus group (62%). Only 4% of isolated bacteria were resistant to empiric therapy. Postoperative infectious complications were documented in 23 (17%) patients and were not associated with the presence of a resistant pathogen or the choice of antimicrobial agents but with more severe disease and higher C-reactive protein values (303 vs 83 mg/L; P=0.03) at presentation.

Conclusions:

In a cohort of previously healthy children presenting with complicated appendicitis requiring surgical drainage, the most common bacteria from peritoneal cultures continue to be S. anginosus, aminoglycoside-susceptible Gram-negative bacilli and anaerobes. In an attempt to reduce extended-spectrum cephalosporin use, these data were useful in supporting the use of metronidazole with ampicillin and an aminoglycoside, rather than third-generation cephalosporins.
Demographic Differences Among Patients Undergoing Blepharoplasty Based on Surgeon Training in New York State
Authors: Gorbea Enrique , Legocki Alex T. , Gray Mingyang , Yang Anthony , Schwarcz Robert , Iloreta Alfred , Rosenberg Joshua D.
Published: July 2019

Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure commonly performed by ophthalmologists, otolaryngologists, and plastic surgeons to address cosmetic concerns or visual impairment related to the eyelids.

Purpose:

To evaluate whether patient demographics and surgical metrics varied among differently trained surgeons performing blepharoplasty.

Methods:

The Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System database was used to identify patients who underwent blepharoplasty in New York State. Surgeons were grouped based on residency training as listed in the New York State Physician Profile. Multivariate regression analysis was used to determine predictors of patient characteristics based on surgeon training.

Results:

There were 361 surgeons who performed 39,932 cases of blepharoplasty in New York State from 2008 to 2016. When aggregated by surgeon training, there were significant differences among procedure times and total charges for blepharoplasty. On average, cases performed by ophthalmologists took 66.7 minutes and patients were charged $6,860; cases performed by otolaryngologists took 158.2 minutes and patients were charged $9,084; and cases performed by plastic surgeons took 131.8 minutes and patients were charged $11,028. Unlike plastic surgeons or otolaryngologists, ophthalmologists tended to have older patients and more male patients. Ophthalmologists were more likely to operate on patients with comorbidities as well as non-white patients (p < 0.0001). They were also significantly more likely to have patients with insurance coverage than self-pay (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions:

Demographic and surgical metrics of blepharoplasty cases performed by surgeons trained in otolaryngology and plastic surgery are similar. Ophthalmology-trained surgeons performed blepharoplasty on patients that were more likely to be older, male, non-white, and had insurance coverage. Ophthalmologist procedure time for blepharoplasty was also less than half of the procedure time of otolaryngologists and plastic surgeons.
Daytime and Nighttime Sleep Characteristics and Pain Among Adults With Stable Heart Failure
Authors: Conley Samantha , Feder Shelli L. , Jeon Sangchoon , Redeker Nancy S.
Published: July 2019

Background:

Pain and sleep disturbance are common among patients with heart failure (HF) and are associated with symptom burden, disability, and poor quality of life. Little is known about the associations between specific sleep characteristics and pain in people with HF.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to describe the relationships between nocturnal sleep characteristics, use of sleep medication, and daytime sleep characteristics and pain among people with HF.

Methods:

We conducted a cross-sectional study of stable participants with HF. We administered the SF36 Bodily Pain Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and Sleep Habits Questionnaire and obtained 3 days of wrist actigraphy and 1 night of home unattended polysomnography. We conducted bivariate analyses and generalized linear models.

Results:

The sample included 173 participants (mean [SD] age, 60 [16.1] years; 65.3% [n = 113] male). Insomnia symptoms (P = .0010), sleep duration (P = .0010), poor sleep quality (P = .0153), use of sleep medications (P = .0170), napping (P = .0029), and daytime sleepiness (P = .0094) were associated with increased pain. Patients with the longest sleep duration, who also had insomnia, had more pain (P = .0004), fatigue (P = .0028), daytime sleepiness (P = .0136), and poorer sleep quality (P < .0001) and took more sleep medications (P = .0029) than did those without insomnia.

Conclusions:

Pain is associated with self-reported poor sleep quality, napping, daytime sleepiness, and use of sleep medication. The relationship between pain and sleep characteristics differs based on the presence of insomnia and sleep duration. Studies are needed to evaluate the causal relationships between sleep and pain and test interventions for these cooccurring symptoms.
Theory Testing of Patient Perspectives Using a Mobile Health Technology System in Heart Failure Self-care
Authors: Hägglund Ewa , Strömberg Anna , Hagerman Inger , Lyngå Patrik
Published: July 2019

Background:

There is an increasing interest in mobile health (mHealth), the use of mobile devices for supporting self-care in persons with heart failure. However, an established theoretical framework to explain, predict, and understand the phenomena of mHealth to support self-care is lacking.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to deductively test if the situation-specific theory of heart failure self-care could be applied in the context of persons with heart failure using an mHealth system with a tablet computer connected to a weighing scale to support their self-care. We wanted to test whether the 3 phases of the self-care process (ie, self-care maintenance, symptom perception, and self-care management) could be validated in the experiences of persons with heart failure using an mHealth tool.

Methods:

A qualitative study design was used with semistructured interviews. Data were analyzed deductively using content analysis and coded according to a structured matrix into 1 of the 3 predefined categories: self-care maintenance, symptom perception, or self-care management

Results:

Seventeen persons with heart failure, with mean age of 75 years, participated. The mHealth system was found to be feasible, influencing adherence and providing support for maintaining self-care as well as influencing both physical and psychological symptom perception.

In persons with heart failure, the mHealth tool experience influenced the development and use of skills and fostered independence in self-care management. An interaction with healthcare professionals was sometimes needed in combination with the mHealth tool.

Conclusions:

The findings confirmed that “the situation-specific theory of heart failure self-care” could be applied in this context.
Adverse-Event Free Survival, Hospitalizations, and Mortality in Left Ventricular Assist Device Recipients
Authors: Alonso Windy , Hupcey Judith E. , Kitko Lisa , Pozehl Bunny , Kupzyk Kevin
Published: July 2019

Background

The number of individuals with advanced heart failure (HF) receiving left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) is growing. Postimplantation LVAD recipients return home to both rural and urban locations. The impact of rural or urban living on postimplantation outcomes has not been adequately explored.

Objective

This cohort study examined adverse event–free survival, hospitalization-free survival, and all-cause mortality between rural and urban LVAD recipients in the first 2 years after implantation.

Methods

Data from LVAD recipients (N = 141) implanted at a single center in the northeastern United States were analyzed. Recipients of LVAD were designated as rural or urban by county of residence. Adverse events, hospitalizations, and survival time were examined using multivariate Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

Thirty-seven percent of LVAD recipients in the cohort were rural. Two-thirds of all LVAD recipients experienced at least 1 adverse event (96/141, 68.1%). Although more urban recipients experienced adverse events, including death, rural versus urban models of both adverse events and survival were nonsignificant (adverse events: log-rank = 1.18, P = .28; hazard ratio [HR], 0.96; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.57–1.63; P = .89; survival: log-rank =2.81, P = .09; HR, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.17–1.23; P = .12). Rural LVAD recipients experienced significantly more hospitalizations and shorter hospitalization-free survival (log-rank = 6.67, P = .009). However, the HR for survival was nonsignificant (HR, 1.5; 95% CI, 0.94–2.39; P = .08).

Conclusions

Frequent adverse events and hospitalizations are of ongoing concern for LVAD recipients. More data are necessary to understand why urban LVAD recipients may experience shorter survival time compared with rural counterparts. Hospitalization may serve as a protective factor for rural LVAD recipients.
When resistance is futile, tolerate instead: silicon promotes plant compensatory growth when attacked by above- and belowground herbivores
Authors: Johnson Scott N. , Reynolds Olivia L. , Gurr Geoff M. , Esveld Jessica L. , Moore Ben D. , Tory Gavin J. , Gherlenda Andrew N.
Published: July 2019

Plants have evolved numerous herbivore defences that are resistance- or tolerance-based. Resistance involves physical and chemical traits that deter and/or harm herbivores whereas tolerance minimizes fitness costs of herbivory, often via compensatory growth. The Poaceae frequently accumulate large amounts of silicon (Si), which can be used for herbivore resistance, including biomechanical and (indirectly) biochemical defences. To date, it is unclear whether Si improves tolerance of herbivory. Here we report how Si enabled a cereal (
Triticum aestivum
) to tolerate damage inflicted by above- and belowground herbivores. Leaf herbivory increased Si concentrations in the leaves by greater than 50% relative to herbivore-free plants, indicating it was an inducible defensive response. In plants without Si supplementation, leaf herbivory reduced shoot biomass by 52% and root herbivory reduced root biomass by 68%. Si supplementation, however, facilitated compensatory growth such that shoot losses were more than compensated for (+14% greater than herbivore-free plants) and root losses were minimized to −16%. Si supplementation did not improve plant resistance since Si did not enhance biomechanical resistance (i.e. force of fracture) or reduce leaf consumption and herbivore relative growth rates. We propose that Si-based defence operates in wheat via tolerance either in addition or as an alternative to resistance-based defence.
Invariant predictions of epidemic patterns from radically different forms of seasonal forcing
Authors: Papst Irena , Earn David J. D.
Published: July 2019

Seasonal variation in environmental variables, and in rates of contact among individuals, are fundamental drivers of infectious disease dynamics. Unlike most periodically forced physical systems, for which the precise pattern of forcing is typically known, underlying patterns of seasonal variation in transmission rates can be estimated approximately at best, and only the period of forcing is accurately known. Yet solutions of epidemic models depend strongly on the forcing function, so dynamical predictions—such as changes in epidemic patterns that can be induced by demographic transitions or mass vaccination—are always subject to the objection that the underlying patterns of seasonality are poorly specified. Here, we demonstrate that the key bifurcations of the standard epidemic model are invariant to the shape of seasonal forcing if the amplitude of forcing is appropriately adjusted. Consequently, analyses applicable to real disease dynamics can be conducted with a smooth, idealized sinusoidal forcing function, and qualitative changes in epidemic patterns can be predicted without precise knowledge of the underlying forcing pattern. We find similar invariance in a seasonally forced predator–prey model, and conjecture that this phenomenon—and the associated robustness of predictions—might be a feature of many other periodically forced dynamical systems.
Biomechanical behaviours of the bone–implant interface: a review
Authors: Gao Xing , Fraulob Manon , Haïat Guillaume
Published: July 2019

In recent decades, cementless implants have been widely used in clinical practice to replace missing organs, to replace damaged or missing bone tissue or to restore joint functionality. However, there remain risks of failure which may have dramatic consequences. The success of an implant depends on its stability, which is determined by the biomechanical properties of the bone–implant interface (BII). The aim of this review article is to provide more insight on the current state of the art concerning the evolution of the biomechanical properties of the BII as a function of the implant's environment. The main characteristics of the BII and the determinants of implant stability are first introduced. Then, the different mechanical methods that have been employed to derive the macroscopic properties of the BII will be described. The experimental multi-modality approaches used to determine the microscopic biomechanical properties of periprosthetic newly formed bone tissue are also reviewed. Eventually, the influence of the implant's properties, in terms of both surface properties and biomaterials, is investigated. A better understanding of the phenomena occurring at the BII will lead to (i) medical devices that help surgeons to determine an implant's stability and (ii) an improvement in the quality of implants.
Are global and specific interindividual differences in cortical thickness associated with facets of cognitive abilities, including face cognition?
Authors: Meyer Kristina , Garzón Benjamín , Lövdén Martin , Hildebrandt Andrea
Published: July 2019

Face cognition (FC) is a specific ability that cannot be fully explained by general cognitive functions. Cortical thickness (CT) is a neural correlate of performance and learning. In this registered report, we used data from the Human Connectome Project (HCP) to investigate the relationship between CT in the core brain network of FC and performance on a psychometric task battery, including tasks with facial content. Using structural equation modelling (SEM), we tested the existence of face-specific interindividual differences at behavioural and neural levels. The measurement models include general and face-specific factors of performance and CT. There was no face-specificity in CT in functionally localized areas. Inpost hocanalyses, we compared the preregistered, small regions of interest (ROIs) to larger, non-individualized ROIs and identified a face-specific CT factor when large ROIs were considered. We show that this was probably due to low reliability of CT in the functional localization (intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC) between 0.72 and 0.85). Furthermore, general cognitive ability, but not face-specific performance, could be predicted by latent factors of CT with a small effect size. In conclusion, for the core brain network of FC, we provide exploratory evidence (in need of cross-validation) that areas of the cortex sharing a functional purpose did also share morphological properties as measured by CT.
Unusual echolocation behaviour of the common sword-nosed batLonchorhina aurita: an adaptation to aerial insectivory in a phyllostomid bat?
Authors: Gessinger Gloria , Gonzalez-Terrazas Tania P. , Page Rachel A. , Jung Kirsten , Tschapka Marco
Published: July 2019

Most insectivorous bat species in the Neotropical family Phyllostomidae glean insects from ground, water or vegetation surfaces. They use similar and stereotypical echolocation calls that are generally very short (less than 1–3 ms), multi-harmonic and frequency-modulated (FM). By contrast, the common sword-nosed bat,Lonchorhina aurita, which has the longest noseleaf in the entire phyllostomid family, produces distinctly different echolocation calls. They are composed of a constant frequency (CF) component with a peak frequency of 45 kHz, followed by a short FM down-sweep at the end. With a mean call duration of 6.6 ms (max. 8.7 ms) when flying in the open they have the longest echolocation calls reported from phyllostomid bats. In cluttered environments, the CF-component is very short. In open habitats, however,L. auritacan emit pure CF-calls without the terminal FM-component. We also recorded in the field a distinct terminal group that closely resembles the feeding buzzes of aerial hawking bat species from other bat families. This is the first time the echolocation call design ofL. auritais presented. In addition, we contrast the echolocation behaviour of individuals flying in open and confined situations. Our results suggest that the unique echolocation system ofL. auritarepresents an adaptation to aerial hawking, a very unusual hunting mode within the phyllostomid family.
Comparative static and shaking culture of metabolite derived from methyl red degradation byLysinibacillus fusiformisstrain W1B6
Authors: Sari Ira Puspita , Simarani Khanom
Published: July 2019

This paper reports on the comparative characteristics and properties of the metabolites derived from methyl red (MR) decolorization byLysinibacillus fusiformisstrain W1B6 under static and shaking conditions. A batch culture system was used to investigate the effect of aeration on azoreductase activity in the biodegradation process, transformation of colour removal and the metabolite products. Biodegradation analysis was monitored using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and high-performance liquid chromatography while metabolites were determined using gas chromatography–mass spectroscopy. Phytotoxicity and anti-microbial tests were also conducted to detect the toxicity of metabolites. The results showed that this strain grew more rapidly under shaking conditions while azoreductase activity increased more rapidly under static conditions. Despite that, no significant difference in the decolorization was observed under both static and shaking conditions with up to 96% and 93.6% decolorization achieved, respectively, within 4 h of incubation. MR was degraded into two fragmented compounds, i.e. 2-aminobenzoic acid andN,N-dimethyl-1.4-benzenediamine. The concentration of 2-amino benzoic acid was higher under static conditions resulting the biotransformation of 2-amino benzoic acid into methyl anthranilate more rapidly under static conditions. Other metabolites were also detected as intermediate biotransformation products and by-products. Less or no toxic effect was found in the metabolite degradation products under both culture conditions.
Effect of pallet unit-controlled atmosphere packaging in maintaining the quality of kimchi cabbage (Brassica rapa L. ssp. pekinensis) harvested in the summer
Authors: Choi Eun Ji , Park Hae Woong , Lee Jeong Hyeon , Kim Hong Kyeong , Park Chun Wan , Song Kyung Bin , Kang Ji Hoon , Park Jun Beom , Woo Hyuk-je , Chun Ho Hyun
Published: July 2019

The effects of the pallet unit-controlled atmosphere (PUCA) packaging system on the physicochemical quality and physiological changes in the kimchi cabbage (Brassica rapa L. ssp. pekinensis) harvested in summer, during cold storage at 2℃ were examined. PUCA packaging delayed the weight loss and trimming loss of kimchi cabbages during storage, irrespective of the O2 and CO2 concentrations. In addition, the cabbages stored using the PUCA packaging at 0.5% O2 + 2% CO2, 2% O2 + 2% CO2, and 2% O2 + 10% CO2 exhibited lower internal disorder/decay incidence rate than the control, and maintained the moisture content. The total phenolic content of the cabbages with PUCA packaging exposed to 2% O2 + 2% CO2 was higher after 80 days of storage compared to cabbages stored in the control conditions and in the PUCA packaging at 0.5% O2 + 2% CO2 or 2% O2 + 10% CO2. No significant (p>0.05) differences were observed in the pH, firmness, reducing sugar content, soluble solids content, and total glucosinolate content of the control and PUCA packaging samples during storage for 80 days. Therefore, these results indicate that the PUCA packaging system, at appropriate gas concentrations, can be useful in maintaining the quality of kimchi cabbage during long-term storage.
Antimicrobial effect of black raspberry (Rubus occidentalis, Bokbunja) extract against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Yu Ji Song , Yu Na-Jeong , Gim Sung Woog , Lee Su Jung , Kwon Gyoo Taik , Yuk Hyun-Gyun
Published: July 2019

Black raspberry (Rubus occidentalis), which is known as Bokbunja in Korea, has traditionally known to possess various physiological functions such as anticarcinogenic and antioxidant effects. Although these functions have been well studied previously, little work has been done on its antimicrobial effect against foodborne pathogens. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of ethanolic and aqueous Bokbunja extracts against Escherichia coli, E. coli O157:H7 and Staphylococcus aureus cultures. The antimicrobial activity was assessed by determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of each extract with each bacterial strain. The 10, 20 and 30% (w/v) EtOH extracts of the fruit pomace and an aqueous extract of the ripened fruit had lower MIC values (4-6 mg/100 μL) for both E. coli and S. aureus than the other extracts (8-12 mg/100 μL). Based on these results, these four extracts were further compared for their antimicrobial activities using time kill assay. Among the four extracts, the DW extract of ripened fruit decreased the populations of E. coli O157:H7 and S. aureus by 1.5 and 2.4 log CFU/mL for 24 h at 37℃, respectively, which were higher log reductions than those of the other three extracts. Thus, these results suggest that the DW extract of ripened Bokbunja fruit could be used as a natural preservative for the food products.
Graphmap2 - splice-aware RNA-seq mapper for long reads
Authors: Marić Josip , Sović Ivan , Križanović Krešimir , Nagarajan Niranjan , Šikić Mile
Published: July 2019

In this paper we present Graphmap2, a splice-aware mapper built on our previously developed DNA mapper Graphmap. Graphmap2 is tailored for long reads produced by Pacific Biosciences and Oxford Nanopore devices. It uses several newly developed algorithms which enable higher precision and recall of correctly detected transcripts and exon boundaries. We compared its performance with the state-of-the-art tools Minimap2 and Gmap. On both simulated and real datasets Graphmap2 achieves higher mappability and more correctly recognized exons and their ends. In addition we present an analysis of potential of splice aware mappers and long reads for the identification of previously unknown isoforms and even genes. The Graphmap2 tool is publicly available at https://github.com/lbcb-sci/graphmap2.
Daliranite, PbHgAs2S5: determination of the incommensurately modulated structure and revision of the chemical formula
Authors: Lanza Arianna E. , Gemmi Mauro , Bindi Luca , Mugnaioli Enrico , Paar Werner H.
Published: July 2019

The incommensurately modulated crystal structure of the mineral daliranite has been determined using 3D electron diffraction data obtained on nanocrystalline domains. Daliranite is orthorhombic witha= 21,b= 4.3,c= 9.5 Å and shows modulation satellites alongc. The solution of the average structure in thePnmaspace group together with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy data obtained on the same domains indicate a chemical formula of PbHgAs2S5, which has one S fewer than previously reported. The crystal structure of daliranite is built from columns of face-sharing PbS8bicapped trigonal prisms laterally connected by[2+4]Hg polyhedra and (As3+2S5)4−groups. The excellent quality of the electron diffraction data allows a structural model to be built for the modulated structure in superspace, which shows that the modulation is due to an alternated occupancy of a split As site.
From space group to space groupoid: the partial symmetry of low-temperatureE-vanillyl oxime
Authors: Ehrmann Katharina , Baudis Stefan , Stöger Berthold
Published: July 2019

The phase transition ofE-vanillyl oxime {1-[(E)-(hydroxyimino)methyl]-4-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzene, C8H9NO3} has been analysed by single-crystal and powder X-ray diffraction. The high-temperature (HT) phase (P21/a,Z′ = 1) transforms into the low-temperature (LT) phase (threefold superstructure, P\overline{1},Z′ = 6) atca 190 K. The point operations lost on cooling, {m[010], 2[010]}, are retained as twin operations and constitute the twin law. The screw rotations and glide reflections are retained in the LT phase as partial operations acting on a subset of Euclidean space {\bb E}^3. The full symmetry of the LT phase, including partial operations, is described by a disconnected space groupoid which is built of three connected components.
A two-stage model for monitoring the green supplier performance considering dual-role and undesirable factors
Authors: Li Fang , Deng Lei , Li Longxiao , Cheng Zizhen , Yu Han
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to monitor the environmental efficiency of suppliers in the presence of undesirable output and dual-role factors with static and dynamic aspects. Meanwhile, it also aims to explain the main reason for the low efficiency of suppliers.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors propose a modified data model considering undesirable output and dual-role factors. The study integrates the modified data envelopment analysis model into the distance function of the Malmquist–Luenberger index. Moreover, this study uses the global benchmark technology to formulate a two-stage model. To verify the validity of this model, a model application is conducted on an automotive spare components company in China.

Findings

The results identify the unique status of dual-role factors based on the global optimality of the model and then categorize inefficient suppliers in an individual evaluation cycle. In addition, each supplier is projected on a frontier curve after obtaining the improved data. Furthermore, through the status plot of M-L and its components, this paper concludes that efficiency scale change is the main reason for the gap in ecological performance between different suppliers.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed model considers both undesirable output and dual-role factors; however, variables with different features, such as imprecise, fuzzy and qualitative characteristics, can be embedded into the presented two-stage model.

Originality/value

Evaluating green suppliers through multiple consecutive evaluation cycles will aid a company in effectively managing its key suppliers. Furthermore, the evaluation provides policy guidance for further improvement of suppliers.
The effect of socially responsible human resource management (SRHRM) on frontline employees’ knowledge sharing
Authors: Jia Xingping , Liao Shudi , Van der Heijden Beatrice I.J.M. , Guo Zhiwen
Published: July 2019

Purpose

This study in the hospitality industry aims to explore the underlying mechanisms through which socially responsible human resource management (SRHRM) affects frontline employees’ knowledge sharing, as well as the moderating effects of role conflict and role ambiguity.

Design/methodology/approach

Two data waves have been collected from one of the largest restaurant chains in China. Using Mplus 7.0, a structural equation modeling model is empirically tested to investigate the hypothesized moderated mediation model.

Findings

First, SRHRM appears to foster frontline employees’ perceived respect and organizational trust and further stimulates their knowledge sharing. Second, role conflict is found to weaken the relationship between SRHRM and organizational trust, while role ambiguity seems to weaken the strength of the linkage between SRHRM and perceived respect.

Practical implications

Managers should make SRHRM policies more visible and implement appropriate SRHRM practices to facilitate employees proactively to share knowledge at work. Furthermore, managers should realize the dark side effects of role conflict and role ambiguity, as they might hinder the positive impact of SRHRM on knowledge sharing.

Originality/value

This study uncovers the meditating roles of perceived respect and organizational trust through which SRHRM impacts on employees’ knowledge sharing. By incorporating the possible moderating roles of role conflict and role ambiguity, this scholarly work also increases the understanding of possible hindrances in this regard.
Correlation between human rights promotion and health protection: a cross country analysis
Authors: Akgungor Sedef , Alaei Kamiar , Chao Weng-Fong , Harrington Alexandra , Alaei Arash
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the correlation among health outcomes, and civil and political rights (CPR) and also economic, social and cultural rights.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses cross-sectional data from 161 countries. The authors use health outcomes and human rights variables in the model. In order to combine dimensions of human rights, this paper uses factor analysis and obtains proxy variables that measure economic, social and cultural rights and CPR. The two proxy variables are used as independent variables to explain variations in health in a regression model. The paper then classifies countries by cluster analysis and explores the patterns of different components of human rights and health outcomes across country clusters.

Findings

The regression model demonstrates that the economic, social and cultural rights variables explain variations in all health outcomes. The relationship between CPR and health is weaker than that of the economic, social and cultural rights. Cluster analysis further reveals that despite the country’s commitment to CPR, those that highly respect economic, social and cultural rights lead to superior health outcomes. The more respect a country has for economic, social and cultural rights, the better the health outcomes for the citizens of that country.

Practical implications

National policies should consider equal emphasis on all dimensions of human rights for further improvements in health.

Originality/value

The sole promotion of CPR such as democracy and empowerment, absence of adequate support of economic, social and cultural rights such as rights to housing, education, food and work can only contribute partially to health.
Transitioning towards a sustainable food city
Authors: Quest Jill , Shiel Chris , Watson Sarah
Published: July 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to provide a case study of a capacity building project and critical reflection in relation to transitioning to a sustainable food city.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study research approach was adopted involving two research initiatives: first, a survey to elicit stakeholders’ understanding of sustainable local food, with a view to creating a shared agenda and informing future strategic direction and second a combination of research approaches, including paired discussions, generation of pictorial outputs and a workshop, aimed to inform the future vision and mission of the Partnership.

Findings

Collaboration with stakeholders through a variety of research initiatives has facilitated the development of a sustainable food city partnership, with the overarching aim of achieving a transition towards a more sustainable food system. Moreover, collaboration has contributed to the transition of the Partnership to ensure sustainability and continuity after the initial funding stage.

Research limitations/implications

While universities have an important role to play in guiding direction and shaping new community initiatives for sustainability in their regions, the challenges, resources and time involved may be under-estimated; these projects take considerable time to yield fruit.

Practical implications

The findings of the study will be of interest to those working in the community to promote education for sustainable development and better food systems.

Originality/value

This paper addresses a gap in the literature in relation to universities and their collaboration with key stakeholders in building capacity and contributing to local sustainability transitions.
“Escape the Room” – a strategy for problem-based learning and student inquiry
Authors: Pearcy Mark , Guise Eric , Heller Dana
Published: July 2019

Purpose

Problem-based learning (PBL) has long been a regular feature in professions outside K-12 education and is growing in social studies education in recent years. PBL is built around student inquiry into an “ill-structured” or “messy” problem (Wieseman and Cadwell, 2005, p. 11). These inquiries are open ended, largely autonomous and student driven (Savin-Baden, 2014). The collaborative nature of PBL scenarios allows students to work with real-world concepts and skills to solve problems (Ferreira and Trudel, 2012). This paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper describes an innovative strategy for PBL learning, an Escape the Room (ETR) activity centered on historical content knowledge – in this case, the First World War. The activity incorporates a series of ill-structured problems with the First World War as its historical context.

Findings

The paper concludes with a discussion of the utility of PBL activities like “ETR” and possible applications in the classroom for teachers.

Originality/value

There has been significant research in PBL activities but little in the specific application of “ETR” scenarios, a rising trend in commercially available activities. The potential for student inquiry and engagement is a rich field for social studies educators.
Does agricultural sector foreign direct investment promote economic growth of Pakistan? Evidence from cointegration and causality analysis
Authors: Chandio Abbas Ali , Mirani Amir Ali , Shar Rashid Usman
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the linkage between agricultural sector foreign direct investment (FDI) and economic growth in Pakistan over the period from 1991 to 2013.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the stationary analysis is performed by using Phillips–Perron and Dickey–Fuller generalized least squares unit root tests and Johansen cointegration technique to determine the long-run linkage among the studied variables. The robustness of long-run linkage is checked by employing autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approach, dynamic ordinary least squares (DOLS), fully modified ordinary least square method (FMOLS) and the canonical cointegration regression (CCR). The causal linkage between the selected variables is investigated by the VECM Granger causality test.

Findings

The results of the Johansen cointegration test confirmed a cointegrating association between the variables. In addition, the results of the ARDL, DOLS, FMOLS and CCR showed that agricultural sector FDI has a strong positive significant effect on economic growth in long run. Moreover, the findings of the present empirical study revealed that there exists bidirectional Granger causality between the agricultural sector FDI and economic growth in both short run and long run.

Originality/value

The present empirical study filled the literature gap of applying the Granger causality based on error-correction model to examine this relevant issue for Pakistan.
Examining the role of parasites in limiting unidirectional gene flow between lake and river sticklebacks
Authors: Erin Noémie I. , Benesh Daniel P. , Henrich Tina , Samonte Irene E. , Jakobsen Per J. , Kalbe Martin
Published: July 2019

Parasites are important selective agents with the potential to limit gene flow between host populations by shaping local host immunocompetence.

We report on a contact zone between lake and river three‐spined sticklebacks (Gasterosteus aculeatus) that offers the ideal biogeographic setting to explore the role of parasite‐mediated selection on reproductive isolation. A waterfall acts as a natural barrier and enforces unidirectional migration from the upstream river stickleback population to the downstream river and lake populations.

We assessed population genetic structure and parasite communities over four years. In a set of controlled experimental infections, we compared parasite susceptibility of upstream and downstream fish by exposing laboratory‐bred upstream river and lake fish, as well as hybrids, to two common lake parasite species: a generalist trematode parasite,Diplostomum pseudospathaceum, and a host‐specific cestode,Schistocephalus solidus.

We found consistent genetic differentiation between upstream and downstream populations across four sampling years, even though the downstream river consisted of ~10% first‐generation migrants from the upstream population as detected by parentage analysis. Fish in the upstream population had lower genetic diversity and were strikingly devoid of macroparasites. Through experimental infections, we demonstrated that upstream fish and their hybrids had higher susceptibility to parasite infections than downstream fish. Despite this, naturally sampled upstream migrants were less infected than downstream residents. Thus, migrants coming from a parasite‐free environment may enjoy an initial fitness advantage, but their descendants seem likely to suffer from higher parasite loads.

Our results suggest that adaptation to distinct parasite communities can influence stickleback invasion success and may represent a barrier to gene flow, even between close and connected populations.