bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conceptual framework of internal Sharīʿah audit effectiveness factors in Islamic banks
Authors: Algabry Latifah , Alhabshi Syed Musa , Soualhi Younes , Alaeddin Omar
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The main purpose of this research is to figure out the most effective determinants that play a vital role in enhancing the effectiveness of the internal Sharīʿah audit in the Islamic banking industry.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper reviews the existing literature to build comprehensive knowledge that would assist in determining the main factors that impact on the effectiveness of Sharīʿah audit in Islamic banks.

Findings

This research proposes a conceptual framework of factors that impact on Sharīʿah audit effectiveness in IBs based on previously published studies. The proposed framework includes external and internal factors as well as internal Sharīʿah audit structure, process and requirements.

Practical implications

First, the regulators need to provide a detailed framework for Sharīʿah audit which covers the main requirements for effective Sharīʿah governance. Second, Islamic financial institutions (IFIs) need to pay more attention to following the Sharīʿah audit process in order to achieve the objective of effective Sharīʿah governance. Finally, the dearth of empirical research on the role and effectiveness of Sharīʿah audit in Islamic banking highlights the need to develop an appropriate methodology to enhance the study of the effectiveness of Sharīʿah governance practices.

Originality/value

The Sharīʿah ensures compliance with its rules and regulations and enhances the soundness and credibility of the Islamic finance industry. This study identifies a number of issues that require further investigation in order to establish a better system of Sharīʿah audit and to identify the factors that affect Sharīʿah auditing practices. This paper is unique in covering the main elements that have influence on the effectiveness of Sharīʿah audit and proposes them in one framework.
Leveraging sport as a venue and vehicle for transformative sustainability learning
Authors: Orr Madeleine , McCullough Brian P. , Pelcher Jamee
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Given greater awareness of environmental issues and the acceleration of climate change, universities are increasingly requiring undergraduate students to complete coursework in environmental issues. Research has shown that environmental courses hosted in science departments can be too challenging for students with no science background. Thus, new approaches to general environmental education at the undergraduate level are necessary. This paper aims to advance three transformative sustainability learning (TSL) interventions that leverage sport as the living laboratory for environmental education through examining green teams and in depth sport venue tours.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper details the experimental application of three TSL interventions in undergraduate sport courses.

Findings

Each intervention produced lasting benefits for several parties. Students benefit from greater exposure to sport management organizations and a hands-on learning opportunity. Sport organizations benefit from a promotional opportunity to showcase their sustainability efforts, improved sustainability practices at their facilities and the opportunity to leverage the students’ involvement for fan engagement initiatives

Research limitations/implications

The interventions presented in this paper were developed in a North American sport context, however, there is a considerable opportunity to develop similar interventions in any region where sport organizations exist.

Originality/value

Despite being one of the most universally appreciated and visible industries, the sport industry has yet to be used as a site for meaningful sustainability learning interventions. The interventions presented herein introduce the opportunity to leverage students’ love of sport for outcomes for all parties: the students, the host organization and sport fans.
The relationship between task-oriented leadership style, psychological capital, job satisfaction and organizational commitment: evidence from Vietnamese small and medium-sized enterprises
Authors: Huynh The Nguyen , Hua Nguyen Thuy An
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This study examines the relationship between task-oriented leadership style, psychological capital, job satisfaction and organizational commitment: evidence from Vietnamese small and medium-sized enterprises.

Design/methodology/approach

The method employed in the research is the Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) for testing hypotheses of data collected from a sample of 800 employees working in small and medium-sized enterprises in Vietnam.

Findings

The results show that the task-oriented leadership style has a positive impact on organizational commitment, limits job satisfaction and no obvious association with the psychological capital of employees. Besides, job satisfaction and psychological capital play an important role in the organizational commitment of employees in small and medium-sized enterprises of Vietnam.

Originality/value

This paper aims to shed light on a less fully explored topic for organizational behavior in small and medium-sized enterprises in emerging markets like Vietnam. In contrast to extensive studies on the participative and supportive leader, this study focuses on task-oriented leadership style in the testing and analysis to understand the theory of leadership style, psychological capital, job satisfaction and organizational commitment in emerging markets and provides more knowledge on employee behavior management for companies in Vietnam. This is a unique contribution to the original value of this article.
Design thinking and radical innovation: enter the smartwatch
Authors: Radnejad Amir Bahman , Ziolkowski Michael F. , Osiyevskyy Oleksiy
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to expand the understanding of the design thinking (DT) field and provides evidence that DT as an innovation mindset centered on user/human needs is able to lead enterprises to the development of radical product innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on an illustrative case analysis of four eras of radical innovations in the watch industry, from the mechanical wristwatches to smartwatches.

Findings

The findings from the watch industry substantiate the developed DT triangle framework for designers, managers and executives, enabling the development of radical product innovation.

Originality/value

The study provides evidence for the claim that human-centered approach (rather than design-driven, meaning-changing approach) in DT can successfully lead to radical product innovations. For this, this paper distinguishes between “need” and “meaning” in the DT field and reemphasize the role of creating empathy with users to be able to identify their newly shaped needs. Fulfilling these newly shaped needs would ultimately result in the development of radically new products.
Relationship between role overload and the work–family interface
Authors: Vatharkar Poonam Shripad , Aggarwal-Gupta Meenakshi
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between role overload (RO) and the work–family interface (work–life conflict and work–life enrichment) among bank employees and the moderating effects of personal life characteristics and commitments on this relationship. It aimed to bring out the importance of contextual factors in individual's interactions across various roles.

Design/methodology/approach

A structured questionnaire based on validated instruments was designed and administered to 279 employees from the banking sector in India. The instrument was adapted to the local language to ensure ease of comprehension.

Findings

RO was positively correlated with both work interference with personal life (WIPL) and personal life interference with work (PLIW), and negatively correlated with work–personal life enrichment (WPLE). Gender, number of children and age of the youngest child significantly moderated the relationship between RO and WIPL.

Research limitations/implications

This study was limited by the use of self-reported data and its cross-sectional nature. Future studies will need to include a larger sample with people from across the workplace hierarchy.

Practical implications

This paper provides valuable insight into the influence of personal life characteristics and commitments on RO and the work–family interface.

Originality/value

The banking sector is among the top 10 most stressful workplaces in India due to high work pressure and the threat of competition. These working conditions make it important to understand employee perceptions of RO and its impact on the work–family interface.
Diatom defence: Grazer induction and cost of shell‐thickening
Authors: Grønning Josephine , Kiørboe Thomas
Published: July 2020

Diatoms account for 40% of the ocean primary production and play a key role in the oceans’ ability to sequester carbon. The evolutionary success of diatoms and their role in ocean biogeochemistry are related to the siliceous shell that provide partial protection against grazing.

The structure and function of phytoplankton communities are governed by environmental constraints and organismal trade‐offs. Defence mechanisms may help explain the high diversity of phytoplankton (incl. diatoms) in the ocean, but only if the defence comes at a cost. Defence costs have been notoriously difficult to demonstrate and quantify in marine phytoplankton.

Here, we demonstrate for seven species of planktonic diatoms that their shell thickens and their growth rate declines when cells are exposed to chemical cues from copepods, important predators of diatoms. The responses are proportional to the concentration of grazer cues, but are also highly variable, both between and within species.

At our standard experimental condition, the typical decline in growth rate is 10%, and the typical increase in cellular biogenic silica is 16%. The latter value corresponds to a decline in grazing mortality due to small copepods of 11%. Thus, silification in response to grazers is exactly warranted.

The similar magnitude of the costs and benefits of silification suggests a flat fitness landscape along the competition‐defence axis. This may help explain the high diversity of coexisting diatoms in the ocean.

The significant but variable contribution of diatoms to the downward flux of organic carbon in the ocean depends to a large extent on the silica content of the cells. This is due less to the ballasting effect of silica, but mainly to the different life histories of more or less defended cells that are governed by evolutionary adaptations and—as demonstrated here—plastic responses to grazers.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Plasma volume treated with double filtration plasmapheresis and outcomes of acute antibody‐mediated rejection in kidney transplant recipients: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Noppakun Kajohnsak , Kittipanyaworakun Thanapat , Ruengorn Chidchanok , Vongsanim Surachet , Saikam Anchalee , Khamlueang Nikhom
Published: July 2020

A retrospective cohort study was conducted to evaluate the association between the plasma volume treated by double filtration plasmapheresis and allograft outcomes for the treatment of acute antibody‐mediated rejection in kidney transplant recipients. Patients were divided into two groups: group 1, plasma volume treated between 1 and <1.3 total plasma volume and group 2, plasma volume treated ≥1.3 total plasma volume. Primary outcome was ≥50% reduction of serum creatinine rising from baseline value at 1 month. A total of 32 courses (146 sessions) of double filtration plasmapheresis were performed; 17 and 15 courses in group 1 and group 2, respectively. Primary outcome occurred in 41% of group 1 and 40% of group 2 (adjusted risk ratio 1.15 [95%CI, 0.48‐2.76]). Graft loss at 1 year did not differ between the two groups (adjusted hazard ratio 0.65 [95%CI, 0.23‐1.87]). Infection tendency seemed to be higher in group 2 (40% vs 18%, P = .243).
Learning from animations and computer simulations: Modality and reverse modality effects
Authors: Liu Tzu‐Chien , Lin Yi‐Chun , Hsu Chih‐Yi , Hsu Chung‐Yuan , Paas Fred
Published: July 2020

Although a modality effect indicating better learning from an animation with spoken learning guidance than from an animation with written learning guidance has often been found in research on learning from animation, the effect has hardly been investigated for learning from computer simulation. This study examined the interaction effects between the multimedia types of animation and computer simulation, and the presentation modes of written and spoken learning guidance. Based on cognitive load theory and the specific characteristics of the multimedia types it was hypothesized that a modality effect would be replicated in the animation condition and a reverse modality effect would be found in the simulation condition. Results partially supported the hypotheses, indicating that participants learned more from animation when it was accompanied with spoken text, and from a simulation when it was accompanied with written text. However, no effect was found for cognitive load. Based on the results, spoken text is recommended to be used to guide learners in animations assisted learning environments, and written text is recommended to be used to guide learners in simulations assisted learning environments.

Practitioner Notes

What is already known about this topic

Animation and computer simulation have been widely used in different learning fields.

Modality effect means that students learn more from graphical representations when they are accompanied with spoken text instead of written text.

The modality effect has been verified in different learning environments.

What this paper adds

Examined the interaction effects between the multimedia types of animation and computer simulation, and the presentation modes of written and spoken text in a learning guide.

Provided recommendations for designing the leaning guide of animation and simulation based on cognitive load theory.

Implications for practice and/or policy

Modality effect was verified in animation, and thus, spoken text is more suitable for learning from animation.

Reversed modality effect was found in simulation condition, and thus, written text is more suitable for learning from simulation.
Cough as an adverse effect on inhalation pharmaceutical products
Authors: Chang Rachel Yoon Kyung , Kwok Philip Chi Lip , Ghassabian Sussan , Brannan John D. , Koskela Heikki O. , Chan Hak‐Kim
Published: July 2020

Cough is an adverse effect that may hinder the delivery of drugs into the lungs. Chemical or mechanical stimulants activate the transient receptor potential in some airway afferent nerves (C‐fibres or A‐fibres) to trigger cough. Types of inhaler device and drug, dose, excipients and formulation characteristics, including pH, tonicity, aerosol output and particle size may trigger cough by stimulating the cough receptors. Release of inflammatory mediators may increase the sensitivity of the cough receptors to stimulants. The cough‐provoking effect of aerosols is enhanced by bronchoconstriction in diseased airways and reduces drug deposition in the target pulmonary regions. In this article, we review the factors by which inhalation products may cause cough.
Seeing Iconic Gesture Promotes First‐ and Second‐Order Verb Generalization in Preschoolers
Authors: Aussems Suzanne , Kita Sotaro
Published: July 2020

This study investigated whether seeing iconic gestures depicting verb referents promotes two types of generalization. We taught 3‐ to 4‐year‐olds novel locomotion verbs. Children who saw iconic manner gestures during training generalized more verbs to novel events (first‐order generalization) than children who saw interactive gestures (Experiment 1, N = 48; Experiment 2, N = 48) and path‐tracing gestures (Experiment 3, N = 48). Furthermore, immediately (Experiments 1 and 3) and after 1 week (Experiment 2), the iconic manner gesture group outperformed the control groups in subsequent generalization trials with different novel verbs (second‐order generalization), although all groups saw interactive gestures. Thus, seeing iconic gestures that depict verb referents helps children (a) generalize individual verb meanings to novel events and (b) learn more verbs from the same subcategory.
Reconceptualizing Segregation from the Global South
Authors: Garrido Marco
Published: July 2020

In American sociology, segregation is usually conceived in terms of spatial concentration, social isolation, and the consolidation of race, place, and poverty. This conceptualization fails to capture the reality of segregation in many of the largest cities in the Global South. Studying segregation in these places presents an opportunity to “open up” the concept and reimagine it more expansively. In the paper, I compare segregation in Manila, Philippines, to the standard model. The case challenges the model in significant ways. First, we see a form of segregation characterized not by the concentration of poor black neighborhoods but by the interspersion of slums and enclaves, and thus are led to view segregation as relational. Second, we are led to emphasize not the isolation of people living inside segregated spaces but their unequal interactions with people outside them. Third, we are better able to identify the role of segregation in constituting, not merely consolidating, group difference through a process of spatialization. These aspects also apply to American segregation but tend to be overlooked. By looking at segregation in Manila, however, they come into focus. We are led to think about segregation in different ways and see American segregation in a new light.
Etoricoxib‐induced fixed drug eruption: Report of seven cases
Authors: Martínez Antón Maria Dolores , Galán Gimeno Cristina , Sánchez de Vicente Javier , Jáuregui Presa Ignacio , Gamboa Setién Pedro M.
Published: July 2020

Background

Fixed drug eruption (FDE) is a characteristic form of intraepidermal CD8+ T cell‐mediated drug reaction, with repeated appearance of isolated or multiple skin lesions in the same location after receiving the offending drug. Non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAID) are the most common cause. Selective inhibitors of inducible cyclooxygenase 2 (COX‐2) provoke a lesser degree of allergic or idiosyncratic adverse reactions than conventional NSAID, but they can cause skin reactions of variable severity.

Objective

Etoricoxib has been related to a variety of unusual skin reactions, including several reports of FDE.

Methods

We perfomed epicutaneous test to diagnose patients with suspected etoricoxib fixe drug rash due to clinical features and reproducibility on at least two occasions.

Results

We present seven new cases of etoricoxib‐induced fixed drug eruption, with a diagnosis based on clinical presentation. This diagnosis was confirmed by an etoricoxib‐positive lesional patch test in six cases and by a positive low‐dose oral challenge in the other one. Two patients showed negative patch tests with celecoxib (10% in pet.) on the residual lesions, and oral tolerance was confirmed in one.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the largest series on FDE induced by etoricoxib reported to date.
Usefulness of a precisely controllable through‐the‐scope clip for duodenal diverticular bleeding
Authors: Uozumi Takeshi , Yane Kei , Sumiyoshi Tetsuya
Published: July 2020

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Emicizumab treatment: Impact on coagulation tests and biological monitoring of haemostasis according to clinical situations (BIMHO group proposals)
Authors: Nougier Christophe , Jeanpierre Emmanuelle , Ternisien Catherine , Proulle Valérie , Hezard Nathalie , Pouplard Claire , Lasne Dominique ,   With contributions from the Working Group on Biology of Haemorrhagic Disorders (BIMHO, Under the Aegis of GFHT)
Published: July 2020

Emicizumab, a bispecific humanised monoclonal antibody restoring to some extent the function of activated FVIII deficient in haemophilia A, represents a major therapeutic advance in the management of haemophilia A patients. No dosage adjustment is required, which leads to a major change for patients used to regular biological monitoring which is particularly burdensome in the case of substitution therapy. In some circumstances, such as before an invasive procedure or in case of bleeding, biological monitoring will be necessary and emicizumab's interference with haemostasis tests, particularly those based on an activated partial thromboplastin times (aPTT), must be known to best interpret the tests and to select the most appropriate methods to guide therapy. The normalisation of aPTT in patients treated with emicizumab is not sufficient to consider haemostasis as normalised. In the event of administration of FVIII to a patient receiving emicizumab, the determination of FVIII should use a chromogenic method using non‐human reagents. Coagulation global tests have been proposed to evaluate the biological response when using bypassing agents in patients treated with emicizumab, but the usefulness must be confirmed. The French group BIMHO presents proposals for biological monitoring of a patient treated with emicizumab according to clinical situations.
Moyamoya disease in a European setting: a Danish population‐based study
Authors: Birkeland P. , Tharmabalan V. , Lauritsen J. , Ganesan V. , Bjarkam C. R. , von Weitzel‐Mudersbach P.
Published: July 2020

Background and purpose

The incidence of moyamoya disease (MMD) in Europe is not well known. In those affected, the risk of brain hemorrhage is considered low. The present study aimed to investigate the incidence and clinical presentation of MMD in the Danish population.

Methods

Eligible patients were identified in the Danish National Patient Register from 1994 to 2017. We collected clinical and radiological data from individual patient records from neurological, neurosurgical and paediatric units across Denmark. The diagnosis was validated according to established criteria. We also extracted basic demographic data on the cohort from the Danish Civil Registration System.

Results

A total of 52 patients fulfilled the diagnostic criteria for MMD. Most patients were native Danes and only 15% had an East Asian background. The ratio of female to male patients was 1.8, and the incidence had two peaks: one in childhood and another in young middle age. Until 2007, MMD was only diagnosed sporadically. From 2008 onwards, the incidence rate was 0.07 per 100 000 person‐years (95% confidence interval 0.05–0.09 per 100 000 person‐years). The most common mode of presentation was ischaemic stroke (33%), followed by hemorrhage (23%), headache (17%) and transient ischaemic attack (14%).

Conclusions

Moyamoya disease is rare in Denmark, but is associated with a considerable risk of hemorrhage. Thus, MMD should be considered in the evaluation for ischaemic as well as hemorrhagic stroke paediatric and middle‐aged Caucasians.
Are northern mockingbirds classic open‐ended song learners?
Authors: Gammon David E.
Published: July 2020

The northern mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos, Linnaeus) is considered a classic example of a species in which individuals learn songs throughout adulthood, but this assumption has not been tested rigorously. To assess whether mockingbirds should be categorized as open‐ended learners, I conducted a longitudinal study and a field‐based song‐tutoring experiment. I recorded songs from 15 free‐living, banded, adult males in an earlier year and a later year, and I classified 400 mimetic songs per year per individual, based on the species and vocalization type mimicked. For two of these “mimetic types,” I further classified all the song types of all individuals in their early and later samples. The number of song types increased significantly across years for both mimetic types, and the average number of observed mimetic types per individual was 46.4 and 47.7 in the early and late samples (p = .055). I found no evidence adults learned any tutor stimuli after six months of tutoring, but examples from the scientific literature suggest the tutoring regime might not have been adequate to pass the motivational threshold required for learning. I conclude that mockingbirds probably are open‐ended learners, but that future research is needed to verify experimentally that adults can indeed imitate novel song types.
Keeping control of regulation? Domestic constraints on the creation of independent authorities in emerging and developing economies
Authors: Koop Christel , Kessler Philip
Published: July 2020

Regulatory independence has become an international norm over the past decades. Yet, governments in some emerging and developing economies have eschewed the model. We argue that this outcome is shaped by the domestic institutional context; in particular, authoritarianism and traditions of state control over the economy. Analyzing new data on the adoption and operation of independent competition authorities between 1990 and 2017, we find that authoritarianism and, to some extent, state‐led economic traditions negatively affect formal adoption. By contrast, these institutional constraints do not have much impact on the start of the operations, which seems to be driven primarily by capacity and economic need. Our findings shed light on domestic institutional constraints on the spread of international norms and the limits of “regulatory transplants” in the Global South.
Unravelling the knowledge, beliefs, behaviours and concerns of Persons with Haemophilia and their carriers in Senegal
Authors: Babington‐Ashaye Awa , Diop Saliou , Geissbuhler Antoine , de Moerloose Philippe
Published: July 2020

Introduction

In many sub‐Saharan countries, haemophilia exists in an environment of poor knowledge and poor access to treatment. To improve the quality of life of Persons with Haemophilia (PWH), understanding their unmet needs and the socio‐cultural realities is essential.

Aim

This study aims to explore disease knowledge, beliefs, behaviours and concerns of PWH and carriers as a way to find adapted solutions to address the unmet needs.

Methods

Based on an interview guide, we performed a qualitative study with in‐depth interviews of 26 PWH and 14 carriers.

Results

Eighty per cent of adult PWH were able to name the severity of haemophilia, but only 32% could describe with accuracy the mode of transmission of haemophilia. Only 23% of carriers were able to inform the severity of the disease. All carriers and adult PWH acknowledged at least one visit to a traditional healer. Acceptance of the disease through religion is the dominant coping strategy observed. High costs of treatment, fear of social rejection, difficulty of management of pain and bleeding at home were the main concerns.

Conclusions

Results demonstrate important gaps in knowledge, especially within the carrier population, mothers in Africa playing particularly an important role in the survival and empowerment of PWH. Findings also indicate the important weight of cultural determinants in disease management and behaviours of PWH and thus their important role in the development of educational materials taking into account these determinants.
Epidural/spinal anesthesia during delivery in women with factor XI deficiency, a single center experience
Authors: Shacham Abulafia Adi , Yaniv Yuval , Steimatzky Arza , Orbach‐Zinger Sharon , Hadar Eran , Shmueli Anat , Borovich Adi , Ziv Ester , Rozovski Uri , Wiznitzer Arnon , Eidelman Leonid A. , Raanani Pia , Spectre Galia
Published: July 2020

Introduction

The safety of neuro‐axial anaesthesia (epidural/spinal) at labour of women with partial factor XI (FXI) deficiency is uncertain. Although FXI deficiency is frequent in Ashkenazi Jews, it is not routinely measured before labour. Our institute serves a large Ashkenazi population. We assumed that 10% of them have undiagnosed FXI deficiency.

Aim

Assess the incidence, bleeding tendency and coagulation status among Jewish Ashkenazi women with FXI deficiency that underwent neuro‐axial anaesthesia at delivery.

Methods

Jewish Ashkenazi women who underwent neuro‐axial anaesthesia at labour completed the SSC ISTH bleeding assessment tool (BAT) and had blood drawn for coagulation tests, FXI and thrombin generation after labour. Estimation for 10 years was calculated from the 1‐year sample.

Results

We recruited 261 women during 12 months. Among them, 39 (15%) had FXI deficiency (<70%) with median FXI levels of 63% (range: 33%‐70%). Around 50% of them underwent amniocentesis in the current pregnancy and prior neuro‐axial anaesthesia with no bleeding complications. BAT score and thrombin generation did not differ between women regardless of FXI status. aPTT was longer in women with partial FXI deficiency (median ‐ 28.6 sec vs 26.3 sec, P < .001, Table 2), although within the normal range in all women. No bleeding complications after neuro‐axial anaesthesia at delivery were reported in our centre in the last decade though, and according to our estimation, at least 2150 women had partial FXI deficiency.

Conclusions

A significant number of Jewish Ashkenazi women with undiagnosed partial FXI deficiency undergo neuro‐axial anaesthesia at labour without bleeding complications.
Etiologies of severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) and misdiagnosis of influenza in Indonesia, 2013‐2016
Authors: Aman Abu Tholib , Wibawa Tri , Kosasih Herman , Asdie Rizka Humardewayanti , Safitri Ida , Intansari Umi Solekhah , Mawarti Yuli , Sudarmono Pratiwi , Arif Mansyur , Puspitasari Dwiyanti , Alisjahbana Bachti , Parwati Ketut Tuti Merati , Gasem Muhammad Hussein , Lokida Dewi , Lukman Nurhayati , Hartono Teguh Sarry , Mardian Yan , Liang C Jason , Siddiqui Sophia , Karyana Muhammad , Lau Chuen‐Yen
Published: July 2020

Background

Severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) accounts for a large burden of illness in Indonesia. However, epidemiology of SARI in tertiary hospitals in Indonesia is unknown. This study sought to assess the burden, clinical characteristics, and etiologies of SARI and concordance of clinical diagnosis with confirmed etiology.

Methods

Data and samples were collected from subjects presenting with SARI as part of the acute febrile Illness requiring hospitalization study (AFIRE). In tertiary hospitals, clinical diagnosis was ascertained from chart review. Samples were analyzed to determine the “true” etiology of SARI at hospitals and Indonesia Research Partnership on Infectious Diseases (INA‐RESPOND) laboratory. Distribution and characteristics of SARI by true etiology and accuracy of clinical diagnosis were assessed.

Results

Four hundred and twenty of 1464 AFIRE subjects presented with SARI; etiology was identified in 242 (57.6%), including 121 (28.8%) viruses and bacteria associated with systemic infections, 70 (16.7%) respiratory bacteria and viruses other than influenza virus, and 51 (12.1%) influenza virus cases. None of these influenza patients were accurately diagnosed as having influenza during hospitalization.

Conclusions

Influenza was misdiagnosed among all patients presenting with SARI to Indonesian tertiary hospitals in the AFIRE study. Diagnostic approaches and empiric management should be guided by known epidemiology. Public health strategies to address the high burden of influenza should include broad implementation of SARI screening, vaccination programs, clinician education and awareness campaigns, improved diagnostic capacity, and support for effective point‐of‐care tests.
Bacteraemia after leadless pacemaker implantation
Authors: Garweg Christophe , Vandenberk Bert , Jentjens Sander , Foulon Stefaan , Hermans Patrick , Poels Patricia , Haemers Peter , Ector Joris , Willems Rik
Published: July 2020

Background

Transvenous 3 permanent pacemaker‐related infection is a severe condition associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Leadless pacemakers may be more resistant to bacterial seeding during bloodstream infection because of its small surface area and encapsulation in the right ventricle. This study reports the incidence and outcomes of bacteraemia in patients implanted with a Micra leadless pacemaker. We present 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/computed tomography (CT) findings obtained in a subgroup of patients.

Methods

We report a retrospective cohort study of 155 patients who underwent a Micra TPS implant procedure at the University Hospitals of Leuven between July 2015 and July 2019. We identified the patients who developed an episode of bacteraemia, proved by ≥2 positive blood cultures.

Results

Of the 155 patients, 15 patients presented an episode of bacteraemia at a median of 226 days (range: 3–1129) days after the implant procedure. Gram‐positive species accounted for 73.3% (n = 11) of the bacteraemia including Staphylococcus (n = 5), Enterococcus (n = 3), and Streptococcus (n = 3). The source of infection was identified in nine patients (60%) including endocarditis in four patients, urinary tract in three patients, and skin in two patients. 18F‐FDG PET/CT imaging performed in six patients did not show sign of infection around the leadless pacemaker. Bacteraemia was resolved in all patients after adequate antibiotherapy. Four patients died early during follow up. For all other patients, there were no recurrence of systemic infection during a median follow up of 263 days (range: 15–1134).

Conclusion

In our small cohort, no leadless pacemaker endocarditis was observed among patients with bacteraemia.
Aberrant ASPM expression mediated by transcriptional regulation of FoxM1 promotes the progression of gliomas
Authors: Zeng Wen‐Jing , Cheng Quan , Wen Zhi‐Peng , Wang Jie‐Ya , Chen Yan‐Hong , Zhao Jie , Gong Zhi‐Cheng , Chen Xiao‐Ping
Published: July 2020

Gliomas are the most common form of malignant tumour in the central nervous system. However, the molecular mechanism of the tumorigenesis and progression of gliomas remains unclear. In this study, we used the GEO database to identify genes differentially expressed in gliomas and predict the prognosis of glioma. We observed that ASPM mRNA was increased obviously in glioma tissue, and higher ASPM mRNA expression predicted worse disease prognosis. ASPM was highly expressed in glioma cell lines U87‐MG and U251, and knockdown of ASPM expression in these cells significantly repressed the proliferation, migration and invasion ability and induced G0/G1 phase arrest. In addition, down‐regulation of ASPM suppressed the growth of glioma in nude mice. Five potential binding sites for transcription factor FoxM1 were predicted in the ASPM promoter. FoxM1 overexpression significantly increased the expression of ASPM and promoted the proliferation and migration of glioma cells, which was abolished by ASPM ablation. ChIP and dual‐luciferase reporter analysis confirmed that FoxM1 bound to the ASPM promoter at −236 to ‐230 bp and −1354 to ‐1348 bp and activated the transcription of ASPM directly. Collectively, our results demonstrated for the first time that aberrant ASPM expression mediated by transcriptional regulation of FoxM1 promotes the malignant properties of glioma cells.
Applying high‐throughput sequencing to identify and evaluate foetal chromosomal deletion and duplication
Authors: Wu Yueli , Zhang Linlin , Lv Hong , Li Ying , Zhu Chongyang , Tian Weifang , Zhao Ling
Published: July 2020

The present study aimed to estimate the clinical performance of non‐invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) based on high‐throughput sequencing method for the detection of foetal chromosomal deletions and duplications. A total of 6348 pregnant women receiving NIPT using high‐throughput sequencing method were included in our study. They all conceived naturally, without twins, triplets or multiple births. Individuals showing abnormalities in NIPT received invasive ultrasound‐guided amniocentesis for chromosomal karyotype and microarray analysis at 18‐24 weeks of pregnancy. Detection results of foetal chromosomal deletions and duplications were compared between high‐throughput sequencing method and chromosomal karyotype and microarray analysis. Thirty‐eight individuals were identified to show 51 chromosomal deletions/duplications via high‐throughput sequencing method. In subsequent chromosomal karyotype and microarray analysis, 34 subchromosomal deletions/duplications were identified in 26 pregnant women. The observed deletions and duplications ranged from 1.05 to 17.98 Mb. Detection accuracy for these deletions and duplications was 66.7%. Twenty‐one deletions and duplications were found to be correlated with the known abnormalities. NIPT based on high‐throughput sequencing technique is able to identify foetal chromosomal deletions and duplications, but its sensitivity and specificity were not explored. Further progress should be made to reduce false‐positive results.
Molecular and behavioural abnormalities in the FUS‐tg mice mimic frontotemporal lobar degeneration: Effects of old and new anti‐inflammatory therapies
Authors: de Munter Johannes , Babaevskaya Diana , Wolters Erik Ch. , Pavlov Dmitrii , Lysikova Ekaterina , V. Kalueff Allan , Gorlova Anna , Oplatchikova Margarita , Pomytkin Igor A. , Proshin Andrey , Umriukhin Aleksei , Lesch Klaus‐Peter , Strekalova Tatyana
Published: July 2020

Genetic mutations in FUS, a DNA/RNA‐binding protein, are associated with inherited forms of frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). A novel transgenic FUS[1‐359]‐tg mouse line recapitulates core hallmarks of human ALS in the spinal cord, including neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration, ensuing muscle atrophy and paralysis, as well as brain pathomorphological signs of FTLD. However, a question whether FUS[1‐359]‐tg mouse displays behavioural and brain pro‐inflammatory changes characteristic for the FTLD syndrome was not addressed. Here, we studied emotional, social and cognitive behaviours, brain markers of inflammation and plasticity of pre‐symptomatic FUS[1‐359]‐tg male mice, a potential FTLD model. These animals displayed aberrant behaviours and altered brain expression of inflammatory markers and related pathways that are reminiscent to the FTLD‐like syndrome. FTLD‐related behavioural and molecular Journal of Cellular and Molecular Medicine features were studied in the pre‐symptomatic FUS[1‐359]‐tg mice that received standard or new ALS treatments, which have been reported to counteract the ALS‐like syndrome in the mutants. We used anti‐ALS drug riluzole (8 mg/kg/d), or anti‐inflammatory drug, a selective blocker of cyclooxygenase‐2 (celecoxib, 30 mg/kg/d) for 3 weeks, or a single intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) infusion of human stem cells (Neuro‐Cells, 500 000‐CD34+), which showed anti‐inflammatory properties. Signs of elevated anxiety, depressive‐like behaviour, cognitive deficits and abnormal social behaviour were less marked in FUS‐tg–treated animals. Applied treatments have normalized protein expression of interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) in the prefrontal cortex and the hippocampus, and of Iba‐1 and GSK‐3β in the hippocampus. Thus, the pre‐symptomatic FUS[1‐359]‐tg mice demonstrate FTLD‐like abnormalities that are attenuated by standard and new ALS treatments, including Neuro‐Cell preparation.
A novel testicular degenerative condition in a wild population of the common carp Cyprinus carpio (L)
Authors: Mahmud Raihan , Purser John , Patil Jawahar G.
Published: July 2020

Gonad abnormalities can restrict or completely block reproductive capability of individuals and in some case that of their populations. Here, we describe a novel testicular degenerative condition of non‐germ cell origin with a high prevalence (up to 22.1% of the population) in a wild population of carp. Based on gross morphology, and microscopic and cellular examinations, the condition shows progressive severity which could be categorized into low, mild, severe and complete. In early stages of the condition, an abnormally increased proliferation (11‐fold) of the Sertoli cell occurred, followed by degenerative cell death of all testicular cells, resulting in fluid‐filled vesicles in the later stages. This initial uncontrolled proliferation of Sertoli cells suggests that the condition could be triggered by malignant pathways; however, the observed subsequent apoptosis of all testicular cells en masse, rendering the animals “sterile,” appears unique. Observations, to date, indicate that this condition is specific to male carp and not present in other species of fish sharing the habitat. High prevalence of the condition allowed comparative evaluation between affected individuals, an aspect likely to facilitate future studies, including elucidation of the cause, robust testing of therapies and practical applications such as management of feral carp populations.
Explaining communities' adaptation strategies for coastal flood risk: Vulnerability and institutional factors
Authors: Chang Stephanie E. , Yip Jackie Z. K. , Conger Tugce , Oulahen Greg , Gray Emily , Marteleira Michelle
Published: July 2020

Increasing coastal flood risk has prompted a proliferation of cities that are adopting risk reduction and adaptation tools. This article inquires into what types of tools local governments tend to adopt for managing coastal flood risk and the factors that may be influencing these choices; in particular, factors related to hazard vulnerability and institutional capacity. Focusing on 40 diverse coastal communities in a study region in Canada, the study utilised data from the communities' Official Community Plans to characterise their approaches to managing coastal flood risk in terms of land use regulations, construction specifications, and/or structural flood protection tools. The data revealed considerable diversity in the portfolio of tools that the communities have adopted. Tool adoption was found to correlate strongly with hazard vulnerability; that is, communities with similar physical and socio‐economic vulnerability conditions tended to take similar adaptation actions. For example, established communities with highly urbanised coastlines tended to rely on structural flood protection while suburban communities with semi‐developed coastlines predominantly utilised land use regulations. Institutional factors such as resource availability and local leadership, which were operationalised using survey data, exhibited surprisingly little correlation with the types of tools that communities adopted.
Goal‐directed action planning in infants with Down syndrome
Authors: Schworer E. K. , Fidler D. J. , Kaur M. , Needham A. W. , Prince M. A. , Daunhauer L. A.
Published: July 2020

Background

Down syndrome (DS) is a neurogenetic disorder associated with risk for executive dysfunction, or difficulties with the cognitive processes required for planning volitional, goal‐directed behaviour. This study examines the developmental origins of difficulties with goal‐directed action planning in infants with DS to inform our understanding of the cognitive phenotype associated with DS and its implications for intervention.

Method

First, the study compared the performance of infants with DS (n = 44, mean chronological age = 7.5 months, SD = 2.3) and typically developing infants (n = 31, mean chronological age = 7.5 months, SD = 2.9) on plan production and planning efficiency during an early planning task. Next, potential sources of variability in planning behaviour (motor performance and sensory processing) within the DS sample were examined. All infants completed an early planning laboratory task and the Bayley Scales of Infant Development‐III Cognitive Scale. The motor and sensory skills of infants with DS were assessed by the motor scales of the Bayley Scales of Infant Development‐III and the Infant Sensory Profile‐2. DS‐related biomedical history information was provided by caregivers for the infants with DS.

Results

Between‐group differences in planning were observed on the dimensions of strategy production and completion, such that infants with DS were less efficient in their strategy execution than typically developing infants. In the DS group, motor skills and sensory processing were associated with planning efficiency on all components of the early planning task.

Conclusions

Less efficient action planning in infants with DS may disrupt the shaping of goal‐directed behaviour, and the identification of early risk factors associated with planning efficiency has important implications for early intervention.
Endomorphin analog exhibited superiority in alleviating neuropathic hyperalgesia via weak activation of NMDA receptors
Authors: Ma Mengtao , Wang Zhaojuan , Wang Jing , Wei Shuang , Cui Jiaming , Wang Yuan , Luo Keyao , Zhao Long , Liu Xin , Wang Rui
Published: July 2020

Morphine is a key drug for the treatment of pain but its side effects limit its clinical application. MEL‐0614, an endomorphin‐1 analog, has fewer side effects than morphine in addition to its powerful analgesic effect. In this study, we measured the effect of morphine and MEL‐0614 on hyperalgesia (7 days) and neuropathic allodynia (14 days) after thermal, mechanical, and cold stimulation. We found that after four and eight consecutive days of intrathecal administration (1, 3, and 10 nmol), morphine induced severe hyperalgesia and neuropathic allodynia, respectively. MEL‐0614 did not induce hyperalgesia at low doses (1 and 3 nmol) and had a mitigating effect on morphine‐induced neuropathic exacerbations in spared nerve injury mice. Hyperalgesia was blocked by Dynorphin A (1–17) antibody but not by an opioid receptor antagonist. To explore the reasons for the different results of morphine and MEL‐0614, we used quantitative PCR and immunofluorescence to explore the effects of both on N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptor subtype 2B (NR2B), microglia marker iba‐1, and inflammatory mediators. After 8 days of consecutive administration, morphine (10 nmol) promoted an increase in the number of NR2B, iba‐1, and inflammatory mediators in the spinal cord of mice. MEL‐0614 (10 nmol) had no significant effect on these factors, and after co‐administration with morphine, the expression of NR2B, iba‐1, and inflammatory mediators was lower than that with morphine injection alone. Our research showed the advantage of MEL‐0614 in terms of hyperalgesia and neuropathic allodynia, which may provide clinical relief of hyperalgesia and neuropathic allodynia caused by morphine.

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