bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
International assignments of employees and entrepreneurial intentions: the mediating role of human capital, social capital and career prospects
Authors: Schlepphorst Susanne , Koetter Elizabeth C. , Werner Arndt , Soost Christian , Moog Petra
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Drawing on human capital (HC) and social capital (SC) as well as the Jack-of-all-trades theory, this paper aims to clarify the relationship between international assignments (IAs) of employees and their entrepreneurial intentions. The study proposes that such IAs provide specific environmental features which may enable employees to build up diverse skills and network relations conducive to entrepreneuship.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors collected data using an online survey, targeting professionals and managers in Germany and Switzerland. They used 223 complete responses. Before data collection, they ensured the suitability of their questionnaire by employing well-tested scales and consulted independent experts in survey design and methodology. They tested their hypotheses by applying multiple mediation modeling.

Findings

As hypothesized, the authors find empirical evidence that diverse skills and network relationships as well as poor career prospects, positively mediate the relationship between IAs and entrepreneurial intentions of employees.

Research limitations/implications

We applied simple random and the snowball sampling method. Our approach involved the use of headhunters, international employers and relocation companies as multipliers.

Practical implications

Our results have practical implications for employees and employers. Employees on international assignments can proactively pursue opportunities in order to utilize the acquired experiences and resources for taking up entrepreneurial activities. Employers can try to retain these employees to facilitate (international) corporate entrepreneurship.

Originality/value

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first empirical study to highlight the entrepreneurial ambitions of international assignees. It thus provides initial insights into this topic.
Sustainable development of micro firms: examining the effects of cooperation on handicraft firm's performance through innovation capability
Authors: Shafi Mohsin
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Despite their economic and cultural significance, the growth of handicraft micro firms is vulnerable, given their small size and resource limitations. By examining the impact of cooperation on firm performance via innovation capability, this study shows how micro firms can address constraints and achieve sustainable development by acquiring and utilizing external resources, complemented by innovation capability, through internal development.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 164 handicraft micro firms in Pakistan via a questionnaire. Structural equation modeling was employed to estimate interrelations of various constructs simultaneously and control measurement errors.

Findings

The impact of cooperation with customers and suppliers on firm performance via innovation capability was positive and significant. Contrarily, competitor cooperation did not significantly affect innovation capability. Furthermore, there was a positive and significant interaction effect of customer and competitor cooperation on innovation capability. Thus, micro firms must reinforce their customer and supplier relationships through innovation capability and internal transformation for sustainable development. Moreover, a balance must exist between cooperation and competition to achieve optimal innovation returns for the sustainable development of firms.

Originality/value

This study emphasized that micro firms must strengthen their customer and supplier relationships via innovation capability and internal development to achieve higher performance. Moreover, the study introduced a new dimension for measuring firm performance.
Modeling and analysis of structure parameters on the lifting force for power catwalk
Authors: Sun Qiaolei , He Liang , Feng Ding , Chen Xinlong , Ding Liangliang , Tu Yiliu
Published: July 2020

Purpose

As the excessive lifting force can lead to catwalk rollover and well site accidents, the lifting process boundary conditions and structural parameters have a significant effect lifting force, it is important to analysis the structural parameters on the maximum lifting force in the lifting process of power catwalk.

Design/methodology/approach

A new model is proposed to analyze the influence of structure parameters on its lifting force for lifting power catwalk in this paper, and the geometric and dynamic equations are established according to the different boundary conditions in different stages. In addition, the establishment of dynamics equations is based on D'Alembert's principle. To solve the model, dynamic analysis software is developed, which uses c # call MATLAB to solve the geometric and dynamic equations. The maximum lifting force is analyzed and optimized according to the software, the influence of structural parameters on the maximum lifting force is obtained and the correctness of the optimization is proved by experiments.

Findings

The best value of offset e is 0. The length of L22 should as small as possible while the installation size of the end of the conveying arm are guaranteed. The length of L1 should as small as possible while ensuring the not exceed the maximum value. The maximum lifting force remain the same in the second phase, the maximum lifting force decreases with the increase of Lcp, Lcpshould as small as possible. The maximum pressure of the hydraulic oil dropped by an average of 13.62% under optimized parameters.

Practical implications

This paper provides a theoretical basis for the selection of hydraulic winch, which also provides the theoretical basis and data support for the design and optimization of the structural parameters of the power catwalk.

Social implications

This research has industrial applications in SJ Petroleum Machinery CO.LTD, SINOPEC (China) .CANRIG, North Rig, TESCO, Sichuan HONGHUA petroleum equipment CO.LTD of CNPC., Baoji Oil field Machinery CO.LTD, SJ Petroleum Machinery Co. LTD of SINOPEC, Yantai Jereh Oilfield Services Group CO.LTD, Nanyang clips oil equipment (group) CO. LTD, etc are the likely users.

Originality/value

A new model is proposed to analyze the lifting force of lifting power catwalk. The model takes into account the inertia force of the structure, development of dynamics software and analysis and optimization of structural parameters. The maximum lifting force is analyzed and optimized according to the software, the influence of structural parameters on the maximum lifting force is obtained and the correctness of the optimization is proved by experiments.
A multi-attribute model to optimize the price and composition of prepaid mobile Internet plans
Authors: Sohrabi Arya , Pishvaee Mir Saman , Hafezalkotob Ashkan , Bamdad Shahrooz
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Prepaid mobile Internet is one of the most profitable services that are composed of multiple attributes. The overall utility of Internet service can be broken down into the sum of the utility of individual attribute levels. Based on the multi-attribute theory, rational consumers choose the service that yields the highest utility from a number of possible alternatives. Determining the optimal attribute levels that satisfy consumers' preferences and maximize the total revenue of the firm is a challenging multi-attribute decision problem for any mobile operator. When designing mobile Internet services, adopting a robust composition of services against different realizations of competitors' strategies can bring advantages for network operators. The purpose of this study is to determine the optimal attribute levels of prepaid mobile Internet packages with the aim of maximizing the total revenue of the firm by considering the paradigms of multi-attribute utility theory about consumer choices and the issue of uncertainty in counterpart services offered by the competitors.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper formulates the problem of multi-attribute pricing and design of mobile Internet plans in a competitive environment by developing deterministic and robust scenario-based mathematical models and considering the paradigms of multi-attribute utility theory about consumer choices. The proposed robust scenario-based models are based on three different paradigms, including maximizing expected revenue, minimizing the negative deviation from expected revenue and minimizing the maximum regret. A comprehensive numerical analysis is conducted to evaluate and compare the efficiency of the proposed models.

Findings

The evaluations reveal that deploying recourse policy can result in higher revenue for the firm when facing uncertainty. By doing sensitivity analysis, this paper shows that consumer preferences for brand attribute and consumers' purchase frequency can influence the revenue of network operators.

Originality/value

This paper develops a novel deterministic multi-attribute product line design (PLD) model to address the problem of determining the price and composition of prepaid mobile Internet plans. Furthermore, the issue of uncertainty in counterpart services offered by the competitors is studied for the first time in the PLD literature.
Condition-based maintenance for major airport baggage systems
Authors: Koenig Frank , Found Pauline Anne , Kumar Maneesh , Rich Nicholas
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to develop a contribution to knowledge that adds to the empirical evidence of predictive condition-based maintenance by demonstrating how the availability and reliability of current assets can be improved without costly capital investment, resulting in overall system performance improvements

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical, experimental approach, technical action research (TAR), was designed to study a major Middle Eastern airport baggage handling operation. A predictive condition-based maintenance prototype station was installed to monitor the condition of a highly complex system of static and moving assets.

Findings

The research provides evidence that the performance frontier for airport baggage handling systems can be improved using automated dynamic monitoring of the vibration and digital image data on baggage trays as they pass a service station. The introduction of low-end innovation, which combines advanced technology and low-cost hardware, reduced asset failures in this complex, high-speed operating environment.

Originality/value

The originality derives from the application of existing hardware with the combination of edge and cloud computing software through architectural innovation, resulting in adaptations to an existing baggage handling system within the context of a time-critical logistics system.
Adapting research methodology during COVID-19: lessons for transformative service research
Authors: Dodds Sarah , Hess Alexandra Claudia
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has created a challenging, yet opportunistic, environment in which to conduct transformative service research (TSR) and assess research methodology. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate and gain important new insights of a group interviewing method with vulnerable people and their support group, adapted and transferred online during COVID-19.

Design/methodology/approach

This research examines the experiences of 35 participants (nine family groups composed of parents and young people), involved in a research project that explores a sensitive topic, youth alcohol consumption and family communication, that was moved online during lockdown. Researcher reflections on running group interviews face-to-face prior to COVID- 19 and online during lockdown are included in the data.

Findings

Thematic analysis of participant interviews and researcher reflections reveals four key benefits and three limitations of online group interviews with vulnerable people and their support group. The benefits include being comfortable, non-intrusive and safe; engaging and convenient; online communication ease and easy set-up. The limitations relate to lack of non-verbal communication, poor set-up, and privacy and access issues.

Practical implications

The global environment is uncertain and being able to implement effective qualitative research online is essential for TSR and service research in the future. This paper provides a step by step procedure for an innovative online group interviewing technique that can be used by TSR and qualitative service researchers.

Originality/value

Conducting research during a pandemic has provided unprecedented insights into qualitative research approaches and methodology. This paper contributes to literature on service and TSR methodology by providing a framework for researchers to investigate vulnerable groups online in an effective, safe and non-intrusive way. The framework also has the potential to be applied to other service contexts.
Inclusive leadership and work engagement: the mediating role of procedural justice
Authors: Cenkci Ada Tuna , Bircan Tuba , Zimmerman Jeff
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the relationship between inclusive leadership (IL) and employee work engagement (WE), as well as the mediating effect of procedural justice (PJ) on this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

An online, self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. A total of 201 information technology (IT) professionals in Turkey participated in the study. The authors used structural equation modeling to analyze the collected data. The authors then used a series of nested model comparisons to test the hypothesized mediating relationship.

Findings

The outcomes suggest that IL is positively related to PJ while PJ is positively associated with WE. In addition, PJ mediates the relationship between IL and WE.

Practical implications

The outcomes underline the importance of IL to effectively lead IT professionals. Organizational leaders can cultivate IL by demonstrating openness, availability and accessibility toward their employees and create work environments in which employees’ ideas are valued. Additionally, for employee PJ perceptions, organizations need to ensure that their procedures and policies are transparent and fair in terms of how decisions are made. Moreover, organizations can offer training to their IT managers on IL and PJ topics.

Originality/value

This study adds to the very scarce literature on IL. In addition, to the researchers’ knowledge, this is the first study to test the IL and PJ relationship. Furthermore, this is the first study to explore the concept of IL in the Turkish context. Moreover, the findings of this research can be beneficial for future theory development on IL in cross-cultural contexts.
Electronic participation via Facebook: the potential from Brazilian municipalities
Authors: Rodrigues Josevana de Lucena , Gomes Sérgio Castro , Borges Fabrício Quadros
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to measure the potential for electronic participation of Brazilian citizens via Facebook as social media, identifying latent factors that provide a favorable environment for such participation by Brazilian municipalities with more than 100,000 inhabitants. Based on these factors, the Potential Index for Electronic Participation (PIEP) of municipalities is calculated.

Design/methodology/approach

The theoretical discussion is based on the literature on electronic government and citizen participation. In the methodology, exploratory factor analysis and cluster analysis have been used to identify latent factors and to classify PIEP according to the clusters.

Findings

The results of the research point to serious regional discrepancies regarding the level of participation in social media, highlighting an urgent need for national e-government policies to be rethought from a regionalized point of view.

Originality/value

The research enhances understanding of the relation between sociodemographic indicators such as income, education, employment and those concerning the access to and effective use of social media technologies by citizens and local governments.
What comes to mind when you think of sustainability? Qualitative research with ZMET
Authors: Mauri Chiara
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to shed light on the demand side of sustainability, that is, on its perceived meaning. The goal is to understand how people think of sustainability, the concepts they evoke when they talk of sustainability and the images and symbols they use to explain these concepts.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a mixed method. First, ten individuals are interviewed using the Zaltman metaphor elicitation technique (ZMET), a protocol developed by Gerald Zaltman in the early 1990s. The concepts and categories emerging from the ZMET have been analyzed, integrated and classified to identify key dimensions.

Findings

Ten concepts related to sustainability are the most recurring in the ZMET: problems and solutions, individual behavior, environment and ecosystem, technologies and innovations, social fairness, food and nutrition, mobility, education and mindfulness, sustainable development and utopia/ideal world.

Research limitations/implications

Ten interviews is a small number to provide a comprehensive analysis of all the meanings of sustainability. To obtain a more complete picture, the number of interviews may need to be increased to 15–20.

Practical implications

The fact that the two concepts appearing with the highest frequency in the ZMETs are “problems and solutions” and “individual behavior” signals that though people understand that there are many problems to be solved in the world as it is now, even the single individual can contribute with his/her behavior.

Social implications

Sustainability is an issue that involves society as a whole; hence, its improvement requires concerted political action coordinated at the national and local levels. The key point of this action is education of people, to make them aware of what sustainability really is.

Originality/value

Although the literature on sustainability is rather abundant, extant literature has mainly focused on the supply/managerial side such as sustainable and responsible companies, corporate social responsibility and also sustainable tourism. This paper sheds some light on the more neglected side of the demand perspective.
Pathogenic implication of epidermal scratch injury in psoriasis and atopic dermatitis
Authors: Furue Kazuhisa , Ulzii Dugarmaa , Tanaka Yuka , Ito Takamichi , Tsuji Gaku , Kido‐Nakahara Makiko , Nakahara Takeshi , Furue Masutaka
Published: July 2020

Mechanical scratching, a common external stress affecting the skin, is induced by various causes, such as pruritus. Scratch injury to epidermal keratinocytes upregulates the production and release of chemokine (C‐C motif) ligand 20 (CCL20) in vitro, which selectively chemoattracts interleukin (IL)‐17A‐producing immune cells that express chemokine (C‐C motif) receptor 6 (CCR6). In IL‐17A‐dominant psoriasis, scratch‐induced CCL20 upregulation and subsequent accumulation of IL‐17A‐producing immune cells and CCR6+ mature dendritic cells may trigger the development of psoriatic lesions, a process known as the Koebner phenomenon. In IL‐4/IL‐13‐dominant atopic dermatitis, pruritus and subsequent scratching are the primary symptoms. Scratch‐induced CCL20 production from keratinocytes may explain why IL‐17A levels are also elevated in atopic dermatitis. In contrast, mechanical scratching is likely to negatively regulate IL‐13 signaling by upregulating the expression of IL‐13 receptor α2, which serves as a decoy receptor for IL‐13 in keratinocytes. In this review, we summarize current reports on topics related to the pathogenic role of epidermal scratch injury in psoriasis and atopic dermatitis.
Flowering phenology of a widespread perennial herb shows contrasting responses to global warming between humid and non‐humid regions
Authors: Song Zhuqiu , Fu Yongshuo H. , Du Yanjun , Li Lin , Ouyang Xuejun , Ye Wanhui , Huang Zhongliang
Published: July 2020

Plant phenology was assessed as one of the most key Essential Biodiversity Variables on species functional traits, which underpins a variety of aspects of ecosystem function and is a vital determinant of species distribution. Flowering phenology is one of the most sensitive indicators of the effects of recent climatic change. Understanding of intraspecific variation in phenological responses to climate change can contribute to the accurate prediction of phenology and the assessment of potential impacts of climate change on organisms. However, this intraspecific variation in phenological sensitivity in natural systems is still unclear, especially at large spatial scales.

Using the widespread perennial herb Spiranthes sinensis, we quantified intraspecific variation in phenological responses to warming among groups located along climatic gradients. Phenological data were derived from 1,681 collections of herbarium specimens and photographs across eastern Asia and southeastern Australia over the period 1902–2017 and spans eight humid and eight non‐humid regions.

We found that peak flowering dates of Spiranthe sinensis (FLss) showed substantial intraspecific variation in temperature sensitivity, ranging from −5.16 ± 1.13 to 4.16 ± 0.90 days/°C. Across all 16 regions, FLss exhibited the strongest delayed response to warming in southeastern Australia. Temperature sensitivity of the FLss was significantly correlated with annual precipitation and aridity index of a region, suggesting a possible role of declined water availability in reducing temperature sensitivity. Notably, contrasting phenological responses to warming were found between collections with different humidity regimes: humid regions generally flowered earlier (M: −3.57 days/°C) and non‐humid regions exhibited slightly delayed flowering (M: 1.25 days/°C).

These findings provide empirical evidence of substantial intraspecific variation in phenological sensitivity across large spatial scales, and highlights that soil water availability may play a key role in a warming planet, especially in non‐humid regions.
Effects of local and national advertising across brands: the case of yogurt in China
Authors: Chen Bo , Hu Wuyang , Zhou Qingjie
Published: July 2020

This study examines Chinese consumer's demand for yogurt and evaluates the effect of advertising on yogurt demand in four first‐tier cities in China. An almost ideal demand system augmented with advertising is estimated, and advertising on local media channels is distinguished from that on national media channels. The main findings are that Chinese demand for yogurt is generally elastic, yet local brands tend to have smallest own‐price elasticities. More importantly, while local advertising has generally a positive effect on yogurt demand, national advertising is found to decrease demand in Beijing and Guangzhou. This may be due to households' distinct media preference across cities, as well as advertising cannibalisation within brand. Lastly, advertising one yogurt brand may function similarly as generic advertising in promoting demand for yogurt with other brands. Corresponding marketing implications are drawn for yogurt manufacturers and marketers.
Cesarean birth and maternal morbidity among Black women and White women after implementation of a blended payment policy
Authors: Snowden Jonathan M. , Osmundson Sarah S. , Kaufman Menolly , Blauer Peterson Cori , Kozhimannil Katy Backes
Published: July 2020

Objective

To test whether Minnesota's blended payment policy had differential effects on cesarean use and maternal morbidity among black women and white women in Minnesota, as compared to six control states.

Data sources/study setting

Claims data from births to Medicaid fee‐for‐service beneficiaries, 2006‐2012, in Minnesota (policy state) and six control states (Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana).

Study design

The key study intervention was Minnesota's blended payment policy, which established one single payment rate for uncomplicated vaginal and cesarean births in 2009. The primary outcome was cesarean birth, and secondary outcomes were maternal morbidity (composite), postpartum hemorrhage, and chorioamnionitis. Policy effects were assessed using race‐stratified comparative interrupted time series analysis.

Principal findings

Following policy implementation, cesarean use decreased among both black and white women in Minnesota compared to control states; this decline was larger among black women (−2.88 percent 3‐year cumulative decline, from a prepolicy cesarean rate of 22.2 percent) than among white women (−1.32 percent, P = .0013). Postpartum hemorrhage increased, with larger increases among black women (1.20 percent 3‐year cumulative increase), compared with white women (0.48 percent, P < .001) in Minnesota compared with control states.

Conclusions

Policy‐related declines in cesarean use after Minnesota's blended payment policy were larger in black women. Increases in postpartum hemorrhage signal potential unintended consequences of policy‐related cesarean reduction.
COVID‐19 in pregnancy: Placental and neonatal involvement
Authors: Prochaska Erica , Jang Minyoung , Burd Irina
Published: July 2020

Since December 2019, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) has caused over 12 million infections and more than 550 000 deaths.1 Morbidity and mortality appear partly due to host inflammatory response.2 Despite rapid, global research, the effect of SARS‐CoV‐2 on the developing fetus remains unclear. Case reports indicate that vertical transmission is uncommon; however, there is evidence that placental and fetal infection can occur.3‐7 Placentas from infected patients show inflammatory, thrombotic, and vascular changes that have been found in other inflammatory conditions.8,9 This suggests that the inflammatory nature of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection during pregnancy could cause adverse obstetric and neonatal events. Exposure to intrauterine inflammation and placental changes could also potentially result in long‐term, multisystemic defects in exposed infants. This review will summarize the known literature on the placenta in SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, evidence of vertical transmission, and possible outcomes of prenatal exposure to the virus.
Role of bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cell defects in CD8+CD28– suppressor T‐lymphocyte induction in patients with immune thrombocytopenia and associated mechanisms
Authors: Li Huiyuan , Guan Yue , Sun Boyang , Dou Xueqing , Liu Xiaofan , Xue Feng , Fu Rongfeng , Zhang Lei , Yang Renchi
Published: July 2020

Many immune dysfunctions participate in immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) pathogenesis, including numeric and functional defects in suppressor T (Ts) cells and immune‐regulation abnormalities in mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Recent studies showed that MSCs can promote Ts cell differentiation. Thus, we compared the Ts cell induction ability of bone marrow‐derived MSCs (BM‐MSCs) between patients with ITP and normal controls (NCs), and examined the mechanism of this difference. Co‐culture of CD8+ T cells with BM‐MSCs revealed that BM‐MSCs elevated Ts cell percentage and function, but the efficiency was lower in patients with ITP than in NCs. Blockade experiments showed that blockade of interleukin 6 (IL‐6) partially reversed Ts cell induction by BM‐MSCs. Addition of exogenous IL‐6 down‐regulated Ts cell apoptosis. Moreover, BM‐MSCs enhanced IL‐10 secretion and inhibition ability of Ts cells. IL‐6 secretion, regulatory abilities of IL‐10 expression in Ts cells, and the enhanced efficiency of Ts cells inhibition function by BM‐MSCs were all decreased in patients with ITP. All‐trans retinoic acid preconditioning promoted BM‐MSC induction of Ts cell percentages and umbilical cord‐derived (UC) MSCs efficiently improved ITP Ts cell numbers and dysfunction. In conclusion, defects of BM‐MSCs in Ts cell induction are involved in ITP pathogenesis, and exogenous UC‐MSCs may be useful for ITP therapy.
Comparing story reading and video watching as two distinct forms of vicarious contact: An experimental intervention among elementary school children
Authors: Cocco Veronica Margherita , Bisagno Elisa , Di Bernardo Gian Antonio , Cadamuro Alessia , Riboldi Sara Debora , Crapolicchio Eleonora , Trifiletti Elena , Stathi Sofia , Vezzali Loris
Published: July 2020

Research has shown that vicarious contact, that is observing an interaction between ingroup and outgroup members, can improve intergroup relations. Although vicarious contact has been operationalized in different ways, mainly via story reading or video watching, an experimental comparison of these different strategies is still missing. We conducted a school intervention with the aim of comparing the two most used forms of vicarious contact, namely story reading and video watching. Elementary schoolchildren without disabilities (N = 292) were assigned to one of three different conditions: reading a story; watching a video; control. In the two vicarious contact conditions, participants read or watched the story of a child with disability becoming friends with children without disabilities; in the control condition, participants only completed the dependent measures. Results revealed that, in general, both vicarious contact conditions were equally effective in improving outgroup attitudes and behavioural intentions. In addition, they operated with the same strength through the same underlying processes (IOS, ingroup norms). We discuss theoretical and practical implications in the context of vicarious contact as a prejudice‐reduction intervention.
Repeated social defeat stress induces neutrophil mobilization in mice: maintenance after cessation of stress and strain‐dependent difference in response
Authors: Ishikawa Yuka , Kitaoka Shiho , Kawano Yuko , Ishii Shinichi , Suzuki Tomohide , Wakahashi Kanako , Kato Taro , Katayama Yoshio , Furuyashiki Tomoyuki
Published: July 2020

Background and Purpose

Inflammation has been associated with stress‐related mental disturbances. Rodent studies have reported that blood‐borne cytokines are crucial for stress‐induced changes in emotional behaviours. However, the roles and regulation of leukocytes in chronic stress remain unclear.

Experimental Approach

Adult male C57BL/6N mice were subjected to repeated social defeat stress (R‐SDS) with two protocols which differed in stress durations, stress cycles, and housing conditions, followed by the social interaction test. The numbers of leukocyte subsets in the bone marrow, spleen, and blood were determined by flow cytometry shortly after or several days after R‐SDS. These leukocyte changes were studied in two strains of mice with different stress susceptibility, C57BL/6N and BALB/c mice.

Key Results

R‐SDS with both protocols similarly induced social avoidance in C57BL/6N mice. In the bone marrow, neutrophils and monocytes were increased, and T cells, B cells, NK cells, and dendritic cells were decreased with both protocols. In the blood, neutrophils and monocytes were increased with both protocols, whereas T cells, B cells, NK cells, and dendritic cells were decreased with one of these. Neutrophils and monocytes were also increased in the spleen. Changes in the bone marrow and increased levels of circulating neutrophils were maintained for 6 days after R‐SDS. BALB/c mice showed greater social avoidance and increase in circulating neutrophils than C57BL/6N mice.

Conclusion and Implications

In two strains of mice, chronic stress induced neutrophil mobilization and its maintenance. These effects were strain‐related and may contribute to the pathology of mental illness.

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed issue on Neurochemistry in Japan. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v178.4/issuetoc
Disrupted default mode network dynamics in recuperative patients of herpes zoster pain
Authors: Wu Ying , Wang Chao , Qian Wei , Yu Lina , Xing Xiufang , Wang Lieju , Sun Na , Zhang Minming , Yan Min
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Previous studies of herpes zoster (HZ) have focused on acute patient manifestations and the most common sequela, postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), both serving to disrupt brain dynamics. Although the majority of such patients gradually recover, without lingering severe pain, little is known about life situations of those who recuperate or the brain dynamics. Our goal was to determine whether default mode network (DMN) dynamics of the recuperative population normalize to the level of healthy individuals.

Methods

For this purpose, we conducted resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies in 30 patients recuperating from HZ (RHZ group) and 30 healthy controls (HC group). Independent component analysis (ICA) was initially undertaken in both groups to extract DMN components. DMN spatial maps and within‐DMN functional connectivity were then compared by group and then correlated with clinical variables.

Results

Relative to controls, DMN spatial maps of recuperating patients showed higher connectivity in middle frontal gyrus (MFG), right/left medial temporal regions of cortex (RMTC/LMTC), right parietal lobe, and parahippocampal gyrus. The RHZ (vs HC) group also demonstrated significant augmentation of within‐DMN connectivity, including that of LMTC‐MFG and LMTC‐posterior cingulate cortex (PCC). Furthermore, the intensity of LMTC‐MFG connectivity correlated significantly with scoring of pain‐induced emotions and life quality.

Conclusion

Findings of this preliminary study indicate that a disrupted dissociative pattern of DMN persists in patients recuperating from HZ, relative to healthy controls. We have thus provisionally established the brain mechanisms accounting for major outcomes of HZ, offering heuristic cues for future research on HZ transition states.
SOCIALLY OPTIMAL PLEA BARGAINING WITH COSTLY TRIALS AND BAYESIAN JURIES
Authors: Bjerk David
Published: July 2020

This paper investigates optimal plea bargaining when trials are costly, defendant guilt is uncertain, and juries rationally respond to the plea bargaining policy employed. The model shows that when innocence rates among the arrested are low, it is optimal to offer all defendants pleas that are acceptable to guilty and innocent defendants. However, as the innocence rate becomes more significant, optimal plea policy switches to one in which plea offers are only acceptable to guilty defendants. However, even when optimal, the societal benefits to such separating policies are limited due to constraints on the frequency such offers can be made. (JEL D6, D8, K4)
Dental trauma simulation training using a novel 3D printed tooth model
Authors: Zafar Sobia , Renner Michael Paul , Zachar Jessica Joanna
Published: July 2020

Background/Aim

Opportunities for dental students to obtain experience in the management of traumatic dental injuries are limited, and most encounter their first trauma patient after graduation. Recognizing this need, the aim of this study was to investigate dental students' experiences of a workshop using a 3D printed tooth. The hypothesis was that the simulation experience with the aid of a 3D printed tooth would enhance their learning experience.

Material and methods

A total of 73 students completed a questionnaire after completing dental trauma simulation training. With the aid of a 3D printed avulsed tooth, students constructed a nylon fishing line/GC Fuji Ortho LC splint and a wire/composite splint. Descriptive data analysis was performed to determine the perceptions of the experience gained through the simulation training.

Results

Over a third of the participants (38%) agreed that the dental trauma simulation training felt realistic. Additionally, 59% agreed and 22% strongly agreed that they felt engaged in the learning activity. Furthermore, 81% agreed/strongly agreed that they felt more prepared to treat patients who present with a traumatic dental injury in the future, and 93% agreed/strongly agreed that it added value to their training when compared to relying solely on didactic training. After the use of splinting materials, 38% of participants disagreed/strongly disagreed that nylon fishing line/GC Fuji Ortho Splint was easier to place than wire/composite splint. However, 52% of participants found that it was easier to remove the GC Fuji Ortho Splint. Overall, 93% of participants agreed/strongly agreed that dental trauma simulation training should be a mandatory component of the dental curriculum.

Conclusion

The use of dental trauma simulation training offers an additional means of learning about dental traumatology. Simulation has the potential to be used as an adjunct tool in the learning and management of dental traumatology as it has demonstrated increased student engagement, but limitations still remain.
Adolescents' and Parents' Perspectives: A Gaming Disorder Intervention in Singapore
Authors: Sim Timothy , Choo Hyekyung , Low‐Lim Anita , Lau Jocelyn
Published: July 2020

Objective

This study aimed to understand useful components and mechanisms in treating adolescent gaming disorder.

Background

Although video gaming has become a pervasive part of adolescents' daily life that can lead to educational, physical, psychological, and social problems, there is ongoing debate as to whether this is an addiction, and there is little evidence about treatment effectiveness.

Method

This process research used a case study design and conducted individual semistructured interviews with 10 male adolescents and 11 parents after they had completed a treatment program.

Results

Four treatment components (individual counseling, family counseling, group mentoring and social support, and alternative activities) were generally found to be useful. Counselors were able to engage the adolescents and serve as role models in gaming through creative use of technology.

Conclusion

Practitioners working with adolescents with gaming disorder should attend to their developmental needs pertaining to gaming, health, psychosocial, and educational aspects relevant to the Asian context.

Implications

Practitioners should go beyond counseling rooms and adopt different strategies to reach out and work with adolescents who are struggling with excessive gaming in different therapeutic settings via engaging and working with them in individual, family, and group contexts using technology, particularly video games.
Fate of proteic and lipidic compounds during production of a traditional legume condiment (Soumbala) made from African Locust Bean (Parkia biglobosa) seeds
Authors: Esse Michel Yavo , Guehi Tagro Simplice , Grabulos Joël , Morel Gilles , Malomar Robert Thierry , Tardan Eric , Mestres Christian , Achir Nawel
Published: July 2020

Soumbala is made from African locust bean seeds (Parkia biglobosa), a legume widely spread in west Africa. It is a lipid and protein‐rich condiment obtained by three main steps: cooking, fermentation and drying. Ten different analysis were made on AFLBS samples at each step with a particular focus on protein and lipid fates. Results showed that cooking decreased markedly the carbohydrate content leaving mainly proteins and lipids as substrates for fermentation. During this step, 20% of the proteins were converted into free amino acids, mainly glutamic acid and tyrosine. Significant biogenic amines release occurred and reached 50 mg per 100 g of dried ALBS. Di‐glycerides and fatty acids increased markedly and represented 11% and 7% of the total lipids of dried ALBS. These results give a complete view of the nutritional characteristics of dried ALBS, its benefit but also its defects that arise during fermentation and not suppressed by the subsequent processing steps.
Potentially inappropriate medications in elderly patients with heart failure: Beers Criteria-based study
Authors: Zahwe Mariam , Skouri Hadi , Rachidi Samar , Khoury Maurice , Noureddine Samar , Isma’eel Hussain , Tamim Hani , Al-Hajje Amal
Published: July 2020

Objectives

Primary objectives were to evaluate the use of potentially inappropriate medication (PIM) use in elderly heart failure (HF) patients and the factors associated with the number of PIMs. Secondary objectives were to test for the correlation between PIMs and quality of life (QOL) and depression.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 125 elderly Lebanese HF patients with left ventricular ejection fraction <50%. Data on socio-demographics, clinical data and medications were collected. Patients were interviewed with Minnesota living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ) and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Medication profile per patient was evaluated for PIMs using Beers Criteria. The correlations between the number of PIMs and the MLHFQ, PHQ-9 and the number of medications were tested using Pearson’s correlation. Linear regression was done to predict the factors associated with the number of PIMs.

Key findings

Patients were taking a total of 1035 medications with a mean of 8.28 ± 3.14 medications. In total, 80.0% of patients were taking at least one PIM. Diuretics (55.2%) and proton pump inhibitors (41.6%) were most commonly prescribed PIMs. The number of PIMs was moderately correlated with the number of medications and the MLHFQ score. Linear regression showed that the number of medications, age ≥85 years, chronic kidney disease and HF with New York Heart Association III were associated with more PIMs.

Conclusions

A high percentage of PIMs was found among a sample of elderly Lebanese HF patients. HF multidisciplinary team is needed to control the prescription of PIMs in this vulnerable population.
AKR1C2 acts as a targetable oncogene in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma via activating PI3K/AKT signaling pathway
Authors: Zhang Zhan‐Fei , Huang Tie‐Jun , Zhang Xin‐Ke , Xie Yu‐Jie , Lin Si‐Ting , Luo Fei‐Fei , Meng Dong‐Fang , Hu Hao , Wang Jing , Peng Li‐Xia , Qian Chao‐Nan , Cheng Chao , Huang Bi‐Jun
Published: July 2020

The aldo‐keto reductases family 1 member C2 (AKR1C2) has critical roles in the tumorigenesis and progression of malignant tumours. However, it was also discovered to have ambiguous functions in multiple cancers and till present, its clinical significance and molecular mechanism in oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) has been unclear. The aim of this study was to explore the role of AKR1C2 in the tumorigenesis of ESCC. Here, we showed that AKR1C2 expression was found to be up‐regulated in ESCC tissues and was significantly associated with pathological stage, lymph node metastasis and worse outcomes. Functional assays demonstrated that an ectopic expression of AKR1C2 in ESCC cells resulted in increased proliferation, migration and cisplatin resistance, while knockdown led to inversing effects. Bioinformation analyses and mechanistic studies demonstrated that AKR1C2 activated the PI3K/AKT signalling pathway, furthermore, the inhibitor of PI3K or the selective inhibitor of AKR1C2 enzyme activity could reverse the aggressiveness and showed synergistic antitumour effect when combined with cisplatin, both in vitro and in vivo. In conclusion, Our findings revealed that AKR1C2 could function as an oncogene by activating the PI3K/AKT pathway, as a novel prognostic biomarker and/or as a potential therapeutic target to ESCC.
Glucose promotes epithelial‐mesenchymal transitions in bladder cancer by regulating the functions of YAP1 and TAZ
Authors: Li Shi , Zhu Hua , Chen Hongde , Xia Jianling , Zhang Fangyi , Xu Ruoting , Lin Qi
Published: July 2020

Glucose levels and type 2 diabetes (T2D) are both associated with tumorigenesis and epithelial‐mesenchymal transitions (EMTs). EMTs facilitate bladder cancer (BC) metastasis development, but the mechanism by which high‐glucose levels promote these EMTs in BC remains unclear. Therefore, we sought to elucidate the mechanism underlying EMT promotion due to increased glucose levels. T24 and UMUC‐3 cells were cultured in media containing different glucose concentrations. YAP1, TAZ, GLUT1 and EMT‐associated marker expression was analysed via Western blotting and qPCR. BC cell proliferation and invasion were assessed using MTT and Transwell assays, respectively. A xenograft nude mouse model of diabetes was used to evaluate tumour growth and metastasis in vivo. T2D was positively associated with pathologic grade (P = .016) and TNM stage (P < .001) in BC. High glucose triggered BC cell proliferation and invasion in both in vitro and in vivo conditions. High‐glucose levels also promoted EMTs in BC cells and increased YAP1 and TAZ expression. YAP1 or TAZ knockdown altered EMT marker expression and decreased GLUT1 expression. Overall, our results suggest that high‐glucose levels promote EMTs in BC cells via YAP1 and TAZ regulation. These effector molecules may be promising therapeutic targets for BC cases comorbid with T2D.
Short‐term comparison of two non‐surgical treatment modalities of peri‐implantitis: Clinical and microbiological outcomes in a two‐factorial randomized controlled trial
Authors: Merli Mauro , Bernardelli Francesco , Giulianelli Erica , Carinci Francesco , Mariotti Giorgia , Merli Marco , Pini‐Prato Giovanpaolo , Nieri Michele
Published: July 2020

Aim

To compare the efficacy of two different therapies (amino acid glycine abrasive powder and a desiccant material) and their combination in the non‐surgical treatment of peri‐implantitis.

Materials and Methods

This was an examiner‐blind randomized clinical trial, with 2‐factorial design with a follow‐up of 6 months. The combination of the two factors resulted in four interventions: (a) non‐surgical debridement alone (C); (b) non‐surgical debridement and a desiccant material (H); (c) non‐surgical debridement and glycine powder (G); and (d) non‐surgical debridement, desiccant material and glycine powder (HG).

Results

Sixty‐four patients with peri‐implantitis were randomized, 16 for each intervention. After six months, two implants failed in the G intervention. Mean pocket depth reduction was higher in patients treated with the desiccant material (estimated difference: 0.5 mm; 95% CI from 0.1 to 0.9 mm, p = .0229) while there was no difference in the patients treated with glycine powder (estimated difference: 0.1 mm; 95% CI from −0.3 to 0.5 mm, p = .7333). VAS for pain during intervention and VAS for pain after one week were higher for patients treated with glycine powder (p = .0056 and p = .0339, respectively). The success criteria and other variables did not reveal differences between interventions.

Conclusions

In this 6‐month follow‐up study, pocket reduction was more pronounced in patients using the desiccant material. Pain was higher in patients using glycine. All the interventions resulted in low success rate.