bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Value creation around merger waves: The role of managerial compensation
Authors: Hillier David , McColgan Patrick , Tsekeris Athanasios
Published: November 2019

This paper examines the relation between executive compensation and value creation in merger waves. The sensitivity of CEO wealth to firm risk increases the likelihood of out‐of‐wave merger transactions but has no influence on in‐wave merger frequency. CEOs with compensation linked to firm risk have better out‐of‐wave merger performance in comparison to in‐wave mergers. We also present evidence that cross‐sectional acquirer return dispersion is greater for in‐wave acquisitions. Our results suggest that the underperformance of acquiring firms during merger waves can be attributed in part to ineffective compensation incentives, and appropriate managerial incentives can create value, particularly in non‐wave periods.
The role of work resources between job demands and burnout in male nurses
Authors: Xian Minting , Zhai Huimin , Xiong Yong , Han Yuan
Published: November 2019

Aims and objectives

To explore the regulation role of work resources in male nurses' job burnout and job demands.

Background

Burnout syndrome affects a wide range of nurses. Although burnout and turnover rate have drawn many researchers’ attention, little is known of work characteristics that may cause a high burnout and turnover rate in male nurses.

Design

A survey design was used.

Method

A total of 366 male nurses in Guangzhou hospitals were included in this survey using the Burnout Scale (MBI‐GS) and the Job demands Resources Scale. Data were processed by hierarchical regression analysis. (Followed the STROBE checklist)

Results

The male nurse's MBI score was (2.72 ± 1.02). Job demands affected the severity of male nurses' job burnout. Work resources are in a low level, especially at the social support, reward and skill diversity. The regression coefficients β of job demands, work resources and interaction items of job demands and work resources were 0.277, 0.314 and −0.006, respectively, and both passed the significance test (p < .01).). The new explanatory quantity ΔR2 after introducing the interaction between job demands and working resources was also statistically significant (ΔR2 = 0.254, p < .01).

Conclusion

Male nurses are at a mild level of job burnout, and work resources are in shortage. Work resources play a regulating role in job demands and burnout.

Relevance to clinical practice

The mild burnout may be a surface phenomenon or was a sign of trend of male nurses’ intention to leave the job. Managers should pay attention to the emotional needs and mental health problems of male nurses' work environment.
The influence of adaptive challenge on engagement of multidisciplinary staff in standardising aseptic technique in an emergency department: A qualitative study
Authors: Towell‐Barnard Amanda , Slatyer Susan , Cadwallader Helen , Harvey Michelle , Davis Susan
Published: November 2019

Aims and objectives

To explore the challenge of engaging multidisciplinary staff in standardising aseptic technique (AT) in an emergency department (ED) in an Australian tertiary hospital, and to better understand the enablers and barriers to implementing practice change within this setting.

Background

Healthcare‐associated infections are the most common complication for patients in acute care. A clinical practice framework developed in the United Kingdom (UK) standardised AT practice to reduce potential infection risk. One Australian tertiary hospital drew upon this framework to similarly improve clinical practice. It was understood that standardising practice would require some practitioners only to revisit and demonstrate AT principles already embedded in their practice, while others would be challenged to adopt a new approach.

Design

Qualitative, descriptive research design.

Methods

Data were collected through focus groups held before and after implementation of the AT programme. Data were analysed using the framework method. The (COREQ) checklist was followed.

Results

Four emergent themes described the influence of motivation on individuals' beliefs and attitudes towards practice change, relationships within the ED context, delivery of education and management directives.

Conclusion

Implementing practice change is more than just providing technical knowledge and includes changing individuals' beliefs and attitudes. An understanding of adaptive challenge can assist in implementing practice change that involves the multidisciplinary team.

Relevance to clinical practice

Results provide evidence as to how the adaptive challenge framework could be a suitable approach to manage potential enablers and barriers to implementing change within a multidisciplinary team in an acute hospital.
Glued to the TV: Distracted Noise Traders and Stock Market Liquidity
Authors: PERESS JOEL , SCHMIDT DANIEL
Published: November 2019

In this paper, we study the impact of noise traders’ limited attention on financial markets. Specifically, we exploit episodes of sensational news (exogenous to the market) that distract noise traders. We find that on “distraction days,” trading activity, liquidity, and volatility decrease, and prices reverse less among stocks owned predominantly by noise traders. These outcomes contrast sharply with those due to the inattention of informed speculators and market makers, and are consistent with noise traders mitigating adverse selection risk. We discuss the evolution of these outcomes over time and the role of technological changes.
Spontaneous oral tumours in 18 rabbits (2005–2015)
Authors: Miwa Y. , Nakata M. , Takimoto H. , Chambers J. K. , Uchida K.
Published: November 2019

This retrospective study of a series of 18 cases aimed to describe the clinical and pathological findings of oral tumours in rabbits, as there have been few reports detailing spontaneous oral tumours in this species. A total of 13 different tumour types were diagnosed: squamous cell carcinoma (three), ameloblastoma (two), fibrosarcoma (two), osteosarcoma (two), cementoma (one), complex odontoma (one), giant cell epulis (one), sarcoma (one), chondrosarcoma (one), trichoepithelioma (one), papilloma (one), malignant melanoma (one) and basal cell carcinoma (one). Odontogenic tumours were relatively common in this study as compared to the oral tumours typically identified in dogs and cats. The most common clinical sign in this study was feeding abnormalities. Surgical excision and radiation therapy were found to be effective in rabbits.
Physiological mechanisms underlying children's circannual growth patterns and their contributions to the obesity epidemic in elementary school age children
Authors: Moreno Jennette P. , Crowley Stephanie J. , Alfano Candice A. , Thompson Debbe
Published: November 2019

Several studies since the 1990s have demonstrated that children increase their body mass index at a faster rate during summer months compared with the school year, leading some to conclude that the out‐of‐school summer environment is responsible. Other studies, however, have suggested that seasonality may play a role in children's height and weight changes across the year. This article reviews evidence for seasonal differences in the rate of children's height and weight gain and proposes potential physiological mechanisms that may explain these seasonal variations.
Safety and efficacy of zero fluoroscopy transseptal puncture with different approaches
Authors: Baykaner Tina , Quadros Kenneth K. , Thosani Amit , Yasmeh Babak , Mitra Raman , Liu Emerson , Belden William , Liu Zhigang , Costea Alex , Brodt Chad R. , Zei Paul C.
Published: November 2019

Introduction

Atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation requires access to the left atrium (LA) via transseptal puncture (TP). TP is traditionally performed with fluoroscopic guidance. Use of intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) and three‐dimensional mapping allows for zero fluoroscopy TP.

Objective

To demonstrate safety and efficacy of zero fluoroscopy TP using multiple procedural approaches.

Methods

Patients undergoing AF ablation between January 2015 and November 2017 at five institutions were included. ICE and three‐dimensional mapping were used for sheath positioning and TP. Variable technical approaches were used across centers including placement of J wire in the superior vena cava with ICE guidance followed by dragging down the transseptal sheath into the interatrial septum, or guiding the transseptal sheath directly to the interatrial septum by localizing the ablation catheter with three‐dimensional mapping and replacing it with the transseptal needle once in position. In patients with pacemaker/implantable cardiac defibrillator leads, pre‐/poststudy device interrogation was performed.

Results

A total of 747 TPs were performed (646 patients, age 63.1 ± 13.1, 67.5% male, LA volume index 34.5 ± 15.8 mL/m2, ejection fraction 57.7 ± 10.9%) with 100% success. No punctures required fluoroscopy. Two pericardial effusions, two pericardial tamponades requiring pericardiocentesis, and one transient ischemic attack were observed during the overall ablation procedure, with a total complication rate of 0.7%. There were no other periprocedural complications related to TP, including intrathoracic bleeding, stroke, or death both immediately following TP and within 30 days of the procedure. In patients with intracardiac devices, no device‐related complications were observed.

Conclusion

TP can be safely and effectively performed without the need for fluoroscopy.
Preventing immediate‐onset food allergy in infants, children and adults: Systematic review protocol
Authors: de Silva Debra , Halken Susanne , Singh Chris , Muraro Antonella , Angier Elizabeth , Arasi Stefania , Arshad Hasan , Beyer Kirsten , Boyle Robert , Eigenmann Philippe , Grimshaw Kate , Hoest Arne , Jones Carla , Lack Gideon , Szajewska Hania , du Toit George , Venter Carina , Verhasselt Valérie , Roberts Graham
Published: November 2019

Background

More than 17 million people across Europe have allergies to food and the burden of food allergies is increasing. In 2014, the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) published guidelines for preventing food allergy. Important research has been published since then and it is essential to ensure the guidelines reflect the latest evidence. A systematic review will be undertaken to help prepare new guidelines due to be published in 2020.

Methods

Eleven bibliographic databases will be searched from inception to 31 October 2019 for randomized controlled trials about any intervention designed to prevent the development of new cases of immediate‐type/IgE‐mediated food allergy in infants, children and adults. There are few randomized controlled trials about the impact of breastfeeding on food allergy so prospective cohort studies about breastfeeding with at least 1000 participants at general risk or 200 at high risk of food allergy will also be eligible. The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach will be used to assess the certainty of the evidence and tabulate summary data. The risk of bias in individual trials will be assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. All data extraction and quality appraisal will be undertaken independently by two reviewers in partnership with a taskforce of EAACI members.

Conclusions

Preventing food allergy has the potential to improve personal well‐being and reduce societal healthcare costs. It is important that forthcoming European guidelines take the latest research into account. Past reviews have tended to focus on single interventions or combined food allergy with other outcomes, making it difficult to draw robust conclusions about potential impacts for policy and practice.
In Defence of Advance Directives in Dementia
Authors: Witt Karsten
Published: November 2019

It has often been claimed that orthodox thinking about personal identity undermines the moral authority of advance directives in dementia by implying that the signer of the directive is numerically different from the severely demented patient. This is the ‘identity problem'. I introduce the problem, outline some well‐known solutions, and explain why they might be deemed unattractive. I then propose an alternative solution. It promises to be compatible with orthodox thinking about personal identity. I discuss three ways in which it might be challenged and find that none is convincing. Personal identity is no bar to the moral authority of advance directives.
Branching hypopigmentation following intralesional corticosteroid injection: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Bjorklund Kim A. , Fernandez Faith Esteban
Published: November 2019

Intralesional corticosteroid injections are frequently used to treat various musculoskeletal and dermatologic conditions, including keloid scarring. While a number of adverse events may be associated with these injections, hypopigmentation without atrophy is rare. We report a case of a pediatric patient with temporary cutaneous hypopigmentation without atrophy following intralesional corticosteroid injection in a keloid scar.
Factors impacting attrition of vulnerable women from a longitudinal mental health intervention study
Authors: Molewyk Doornbos Mary , Zandee Gail Landheer , Timmermans Barbara , Moes Jesse , Heitsch Emily , Quist Morgan , Heetderks Erica , Houskamp Christa , VanWolde Anna
Published: November 2019

Objective

This study explored factors associated with attrition of vulnerable women from a community‐based, longitudinal mental health intervention study.

Design

The study employed a quasi‐experimental, nonequivalent comparison group pretest–posttest design. The intervention consisted of six, 90‐min meetings featuring education and support.

Sample

One hundred and eighteen women aged 18–88 years enrolled from four urban neighborhoods.

Measurements

The team used the Generalized Anxiety Disorder‐7, the Primary Health Questionnaire‐9, a self‐care knowledge for anxiety and depression instrument, and demographics to measure variables.

Intervention

Sessions occurred at trusted neighborhood sites. The team provided transportation, child care, and reminder calls or texts. Community health workers actively encouraged participants to continue in the study. The researchers did not offer financial incentives. Completion of the intervention involved attending four of six sessions.

Results

The study had a 39% attrition rate. Results, using a Chi‐square test for independence, indicated significant associations between attrition, neighborhood/homelessness, and family income. Additionally, there were significant associations between attrition, a past diagnosis of anxiety, and a lack of concurrent therapy for anxiety/depression.

Conclusions

This study identified social determinants and mental health factors linked to the attrition of urban, ethnically diverse, and impoverished women from longitudinal intervention studies.
Unravelling intricate interactions among atmospheric bromeliads with highly overlapping niches in seasonal systems
Authors: Chaves C. J. N. , Rossatto D. R.
Published: November 2019

Biotic and abiotic interactions are important factors that explain community assembly. For example, epiphytic communities are shaped by tree traits that can act as environmental filters, but also by positive and/or negative interactions among coexisting epiphytes on a tree.

Here, we studied interactions among three widespread atmospheric bromeliads with overlapping niches (Tillandsia recurvata,T. tricholepisandT. pohliana), using experimental data about facilitation through seed capture, interspecific interaction during seed germination and competition among adult individuals. We aim to understand how species interactions are reflected in the natural coexisting patterns of epiphytes in communities at high and low tree densities.

Tillandsia pohlianashowed higher facilitation by capturing almost all wind‐dispersing seeds, and had the largest reduction in seed germination in the presence of any adult individual, also presenting a relatively high rate of adult mortality in the presence of other individuals. Our results indicate higher colonisation ability forT. pohlianaand distinct strategies of rapid exploitation ofT. recurvataandT. tricholepisindividuals.

In natural communities, the coexistence among atmospheric bromeliads may be hampered by dispersal limitations in wind‐dispersed epiphytes at high tree density conditions, but a negative effect ofT. recurvataonT. pohlianais still reflected in their reduced coexistence. However, competitive patterns observed in the experimental data may be overshadowed by a possible mass effect driving large communities under such conditions. Our results show the joint effect of positive interactions and high dispersal levels on the community patterns of atmospheric bromeliads.
The Spread and Domestication of the Term “Austerity:” Evidence from the Portuguese and Spanish Parliaments
Authors: Pi Ferrer Laia , Alasuutari Pertti
Published: November 2019

This article explores what happens when the term “austerity” becomes a global catchword. Specifically, we study how this term has been used in national policy making in the Portuguese and Spanish parliaments from the 1970s until recently. We show that although Portugal and Spain were in a somewhat different situation regarding the 2008 economic crisis, the increased popularity of the term austerity occurred practically simultaneously in the Portuguese and Spanish parliaments. This suggests that the term's popularity in political debates is not solely determined by a nation's political or fiscal situation. Rather, our contention is that employing the term austerity to discuss government policies became a global fashion after the fiscal crisis of 2008. The study also shows why austerity became an increasingly popular concept: the term changed from being mainly used in fiscal policy to being commonly used in other policy areas too.

Related Articles

Exadaktylos, Theofanis, and Nikolaos Zahariadis. 2014. “Quid pro Quo: Political Trust and Policy Implementation in Greece during the Age of Austerity.” Politics & Policy 42 (1): 160‐183. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12058

Monza, Sabina, and Eva Anduiza. 2016. “The Visibility of the EU in the National Public Spheres in Times of Crisis and Austerity.” Politics & Policy 44 (3): 499‐524. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12163

Sager, Fritz, and Markus Hinterleitner. 2016. “How do Credit Rating Agencies Rate? An Implementation Perspective on the Assessment of Austerity Programs during the European Debt Crisis.” Politics & Policy 44 (4): 783‐815. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12165
Pupillometric investigation into the speed‐accuracy trade‐off in a visuo‐motor aiming task
Authors: Naber Marnix , Murphy Peter
Published: November 2019

Convergent lines of evidence suggest that fluctuations in the size of the pupil may be associated with the trade‐off between the speed (adrenergic, sympathetic) and accuracy (cholinergic, parasympathetic) of behavior across a variety of task contexts. Here, we explored whether pupil size was related to this trade‐off during a visuospatial motor aiming task. Participants were shown visual targets at random locations on a screen and were instructed and incentivized to move a computer mouse‐controlled cursor to the center of the targets, either as fast as possible, as accurately as possible, or to strike a balance between the two. Behavioral results showed that these instructions led to typical speed‐accuracy trade‐off effects on movement reaction times and hit distances to target centers. Pupillometric analyses revealed that movements were faster and less accurate when participants had relatively large baseline pupil sizes, as measured before target onset. Furthermore, trial‐evoked pupil dilation was related specifically to a bias toward speed in the trade‐off and the speed of the ballistic and error‐correction phases of the motor responses such that larger pupils predicted shorter latencies and higher movement speeds. Pupil responses were also associated with performance in a manner that may reflect the combined influence of a number of factors, including the generation of dynamic urgency and an arousal response to negative feedback. Our results generally support a role for pupil‐linked arousal in regulating the trade‐off between speed and accuracy, while also highlighting how the trial‐related pupil response can exhibit multifaceted, temporally discrete associations with behavior.
World religion and fake news: A pedagogical response in an age of post‐truth
Authors: Shoemaker Terry D.
Published: November 2019

This article describes a pedagogical response to teaching world religions courses in a post‐truth age. The course assignment and its application, utilized in both online and in‐person formats, bridge student academic pursuits with religious traditions, require students to engage with source‐based journalism, and extend beyond the classroom into many of the contemporary politics encroaching upon the humanities fields. Related to the first, the objective of the assignment is for students to discover that religiosity permeates multiple sectors, both private and public, corresponding with student career paths. As a result, students discover that religion is relevant to their academic pursuits and that they must consider the possibilities of how religion might integrate with their career choices. Regarding the second objective, the assignment develops student digital media literacy skills as a form of civic education that challenges the current political attacks on journalism and factuality. Last, this exercise acknowledges the realities facing many humanities programs across the country and offers this assignment as a way of engaging with those issues within the classroom. See as well, published in this issue of the journal, three short companion essays by Sarah L. Schwarz, Jonathan R. Herman, and Harshita Mruthinti Kamath, each of which analyzes this pedagogical strategy for their particular teaching contexts.
Contingent with quality or quality contingent?
Authors: Wirrig Adam L.
Published: November 2019

The world of the modern academy relies heavily upon contingent faculty in the teaching and training of students. Theological studies readily evidences this practice in innumerable ways. While the contingent faculty member is intrinsic to the mission of many modern schools, this piece ponders whether or not a trade‐off exists in the quality of learning contingent faculty can offer in comparison to residential or tenure track faculty members? The piece explores the constraints that many contingent faculty face in the world of theological education and asks the academy at large if such limits are something it really feels comfortable with. Ultimately, the piece voices a view that the modern academy must come to grips with its utilization of contingent faculty both for the sake of those faculty members, but more‐so for the sake of its students. See companion essays published in this issue of the journal by Hoon J. Lee, Bradley Burroughs, Kyle Schenkewitz, and Charles Harrell.
Managing the car when you cannot control the tracks: Understanding and supporting adjunct instructors
Authors: Burroughs Bradley B.
Published: November 2019

Reflecting upon the author's experiences as an assistant professor and an adjunct instructor, this essay considers two characteristics of adjunct teaching that threaten adjuncts themselves and the educational effectiveness of the institutions at which they teach. First, adjuncts routinely experience a sense of disenfranchisement in determining the direction of those institutions. Second, adjuncts' contingent status makes them peculiarly vulnerable to perverse incentives that tempt them to reduce the rigor of their courses. While acknowledging that adjuncts can take measures to combat these threats, this essay highlights ways in which deans, department chairs, and senior faculty can engage with adjunct instructors in ways that convey appreciation, lend support, and help them to grow as teachers. Not only do such measures foster adjuncts' sense of connection to the institution, but they are crucial to preventing the unjust exploitation of adjunct labor. See companion essays published in this issue of the journal by Hoon J. Lee, Adam Wirrig, Kyle Schenkewitz, and Charles Harrell.
Short‐term commitment, long‐term impact: Reflections on teaching as contingent faculty
Authors: Schenkewitz Kyle A.
Published: November 2019

Many colleges and universities employ contingent faculty to meet various needs. Utilizing contingent teachers as single‐course adjuncts or full‐time faculty members can be beneficial to institutions and teachers alike. While acknowledging the positive, long‐term impact on current students, short‐term teaching faculty face challenges that warrant further consideration by institutions relying on contingent faculty labor. This essay centers upon the experience of one faculty member and some of the ways being contingent affects building relationships with students, mentoring and teaching effectively, and developing courses and programs. I argue that, even when contingent faculty strive to do their best, the limited nature of their employment creates a barrier to their own flourishing and the contributions they can make to the students and institutions they serve. See companion essays published in this issue of the journal by Hoon J. Lee, Adam Wirrig, Bradley Burroughs, and Charles Harrell.
Contingent faculty: More than a tribe of nomads
Authors: Harrell Charles L.
Published: November 2019

In this essay I review the advantages and challenges of contingent faculty service from a perspective which crosses programs, but chiefly from within one academic institution, a church‐related but independent theological seminary. I anecdotally relate certain “value‐added” potentialities which accrue for students and instruction when an adjunct faculty's primary institutional connections are outside the academic environment. I cite benefits to the student, school, and instructor. See companion essays published in this issue of the journal by Hoon J. Lee, Adam Wirrig, Bradley Burroughs, and Kyle A. Schenkewitz.
Transformation, fear, and freedom in Teaching to Transgress
Authors: Jones Medine Carolyn M.
Published: November 2019

One of four short essays published in this issue of the journal to celebrate the 25th anniversary of bell hooks's classic text book, Teaching to Transgress (1994). The authors reflect on the importance of this text for their teaching, when they discovered it, and how it has shaped their approach to the classroom, as illustrated in a particular teaching strategy or assignment that they have used that is inspired by the book.
Love transgresses: Reflections at 25 years
Authors: Reyes Patrick B.
Published: November 2019

One of four short essays published in this issue of the journal to celebrate the 25th anniversary of bell hooks's classic book, Teaching to Transgress (1994). The authors reflect on the importance of this text for their teaching, when they discovered it, and how it has shaped their approach to the classroom, as illustrated in a particular teaching strategy or assignment that they have used that is inspired by the book.
Comparison of Training Monitoring and Prescription Methods in Sprint Kayaking
Authors: Hogan Cruz , Binnie Martyn J. , Doyle Matthew , Lester Leanne , Peeling Peter
Published: November 2019

Purpose: To compare methods of monitoring and prescribing on-water exercise intensity (heart rate [HR], stroke rate [SR], and power output [PO]) during sprint kayak training. Methods: Twelve well-trained flat-water sprint kayak athletes completed a preliminary on-water 7 × 4-min graded exercise test and a 1000-m time trial to delineate individual training zones for PO, HR, and SR into a 5-zone model (T1–T5). Subsequently, athletes completed 2 repeated trials of an on-water training session, where intensity was prescribed based on individual PO zones. Times quantified for T1–T5 during the training session were then compared between PO, HR, and SR. Results: Total time spent in T1 was higher for HR (P < .01) compared with PO. Time spent in T2 was lower for HR (P < .001) and SR (P < .001) compared with PO. Time spent in T3 was not different between PO, SR, and HR (P > .05). Time spent in T4 was higher for HR (P < .001) and SR (P < .001) compared with PO. Time spent in T5 was higher for SR (P = .03) compared with PO. Differences were found between the prescribed and actual time spent in T1–T5 when using PO (P < .001). Conclusions: The measures of HR and SR misrepresented time quantified for T1–T5 as prescribed by PO. The stochastic nature of PO during on-water training may explain the discrepancies between prescribed and actual time quantified for power across these zones. For optimized prescription and monitoring of athlete training loads, coaches should consider the discrepancies between different measures of intensity and how they may influence intensity distribution.
Social Interaction in Walking Groups and Affective Responses Among Japanese Older Adults
Authors: Harada Kazuhiro , Masumoto Kouhei , Fukuzawa Ai , Touyama Michiko , Sato Koji , Kondo Narihiko , Okada Shuichi
Published: November 2019

This study examined whether satisfaction with social interactions and the number of people interacted with during walking groups is associated with affective responses among older adults. Twenty-six older adults were asked to participate in five walking group sessions. The participants walked together for 40–50 min. In every session, the participants reported their affective responses to walking (positive engagement, tranquility, and negative affect), their level of satisfaction with the social interactions experienced, and the number of people interacted with during the walk. The available data were from 107 person-sessions. Multilevel models revealed that, although a higher number of people interacted with was not significantly associated with improvements in any affective responses, higher satisfaction with the interactions was significantly associated with improvements in positive engagement at both the within- and between-person levels. This study found that higher satisfaction with the interactions was associated with desirable affective responses among older adults.
The Association Between Femoral Neck-Shaft Angle and Aging and Its Influence on the Performance of Functional Activity: A Cross-Sectional Investigation
Authors: Altubasi Ibrahim M.
Published: November 2019

The purposes of this study were first to examine the association between aging and both the magnitude and asymmetry in the femoral neck-shaft angle (NSA). The second purpose was to determine the effects of both the magnitude and NSA asymmetry on the performance of functional activities in healthy individuals. Fifty-one subjects participated in this study. The femoral NSA was measured on computed tomography scout images. The participants performed four performance tests. Four hierarchical regression models were constructed to explore the effect of each predictor on the outcomes. Aging was associated with NSA asymmetry, but not with the degree of NSA. Age contributed significantly to the variability of all functional performance tests except the 10-m walking speed. The degree of the NSA did not contribute to the prediction of the functional performance tests. However, asymmetry in the NSA added significantly to the prediction of all functional performance tests except the 10-m walking speed.
Multicomponent Training Changes Blood Pressure and Redox Status in Older Women: Influence of β2 Adrenergic Receptor Haplotypes
Authors: Gonçalves Thiago Correa Porto , Trapé Atila Alexandre , Rodrigues Jhennyfer Aline Lima , Tavares Simone Sakagute , Bueno Junior Carlos Roberto
Published: November 2019

The β2 adrenergic receptor (β2-AR) plays an important role in vascular smooth muscle. However, the interaction between Arg16Gly and Gln27Glu β2-AR polymorphisms, and exercise training has not yet been established. This study evaluated the influence of these β2-AR polymorphisms on body composition, aerobic capacity, blood pressure, lipid profile, nitric oxide, and redox status at baseline and in response to an exercise program in women aged 50–79 years. Genotype and haplotypes were analyzed in association with the previously mentioned variables before and after the multicomponent training (12 weeks, 2 sessions/week, 90 min/session, and exercise intensity between 13 and 15 on the Borg scale). Individuals who carry β2-AR Arg16Arg/Gln27Gln genotypes presented more improvements in blood pressure, body composition, aerobic capacity, and redox status in response to a multicomponent training program compared with individuals who do not carry this haplotype. In some years, the genetic profile may be used to predict which exercise program can induce more health benefits for each person.
Blood-Modified Carbapenem Inactivation Method: a Phenotypic Method for Detecting Carbapenemase-Producing
Enterobacteriaceae
Directly from Positive Blood Culture Broths
Authors: Sfeir M. M. , Satlin M. J. , Fauntleroy K. A. , Jenkins S. G. , Westblade L. F.
Published: November 2019

A variant of the modified carbapenem inactivation method (mCIM) was developed to detect carbapenemase activity directly from positive blood culture broths. The method, termed “Blood-mCIM,” was evaluated using Bactec blood culture bottles (Becton, Dickinson and Company, Franklin Lakes, NJ) inoculated with 27 different carbapenemase-producing
Enterobacteriaceae
(CPE) isolates and 34 different non-CPE isolates.
Single Amino Acid Differences between Closely Related Reovirus T3D Lab Strains Alter Oncolytic Potency
In Vitro
and
In Vivo
Authors: Mohamed Adil , Clements Derek R. , Gujar Shashi A. , Lee Patrick W. , Smiley James R. , Shmulevitz Maya
Published: November 2019

The reovirus serotype 3 Dearing (T3D) strain is in clinical trials for cancer therapy. We find that closely related laboratory strains of T3D exhibit large differences in their abilities to replicate in cancer cells
in vitro
, which correlates with oncolytic activity in a in a murine model of melanoma. The study reveals that five single amino acid changes among three reovirus genes strongly impact reovirus therapeutic potency. In general, the findings suggest that attention should be given to genomic divergence of virus strains during research and optimization for cancer therapy.
Herpes Simplex Virus 1 Spread in Oligodendrocytic Cells Is Highly Dependent on MAL Proteolipid
Authors: López-Guerrero José Antonio , de la Nuez Carmen , Praena Beatriz , Sánchez-León Enrique , Krummenacher Claude , Bello-Morales Raquel
Published: November 2019

Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) is a neurotropic pathogen that can infect many types of cells and establish latent infections in neurons. HSV-1 may spread from infected to uninfected cells by two main routes: by cell-free virus or by cell-to-cell spread. In the first case, virions exit into the extracellular space and then infect another cell from the outside. In the second case, viral transmission occurs through cell-to-cell contacts via a mechanism that is still poorly understood. A third mode of spread, using extracellular vesicles, also exists. In this study, we demonstrate the important role for a myelin protein, myelin and lymphocyte protein (MAL), in the process of cell-to-cell viral spread in oligodendrocytes. We show that MAL is involved in trafficking of virions along cell processes and that MAL depletion produces a significant alteration in the viral cycle, which reduces cell-to cell spread of HSV-1.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa Leucine Aminopeptidase Influences Early Biofilm Composition and Structure via Vesicle-Associated Antibiofilm Activity
Authors: Esoda Caitlin N. , Kuehn Meta J.
Published: November 2019

Biofilm formation by the bacterial pathogen
P. aeruginosa
is known to contribute to drug resistance in nosocomial infections and chronic lung infections of cystic fibrosis patients. In order to treat these infections more successfully, the mechanisms of bacterial biofilm development must be elucidated. While both bacterially secreted aminopeptidase and outer membrane vesicles have been shown to be abundant in
P. aeruginosa
biofilm matrices, the contributions of each of these factors to the steps in biofilm generation have not been well studied. This work provides new insight into how these bacterial components mediate the formation of a robust, drug-resistant extracellular matrix and implicates outer membrane vesicles as active components of biofilm architecture, expanding our overall understanding of
P. aeruginosa
biofilm biology.
Functional Multigenomic Screening of Human-Associated Bacteria for NF-κB-Inducing Bioactive Effectors
Authors: Estrela Andreia B. , Nakashige Toshiki G. , Lemetre Christophe , Woodworth Ian D. , Weisman Jazz L. , Cohen Louis J. , Brady Sean F.
Published: November 2019

Human-associated bacteria are thought to encode bioactive small molecules and proteins that play an intimate role in human health and disease. Here, we report on the creation and functional screening of a multigenomic library constructed using genomic DNA from 116 bacteria found at diverse sites across the human body. Individual clones were screened for genes capable of conferring NF-κB-inducing activity to
Escherichia coli
. NF-κB is a useful reporter for a range of cellular processes related to immunity, pathogenesis, and inflammation. Compared to the screening of metagenomic libraries, the ability to normalize input DNA ratios when constructing a multigenomic library should facilitate the more efficient examination of commensal bacteria for diverse bioactivities. Multigenomic screening takes advantage of the growing available resources in culturing and sequencing the human microbiota and generates starting points for more in-depth studies on the mechanisms by which commensal bacteria interact with their human host.
Integrated Meta-omics Approaches To Understand the Microbiome of Spontaneous Fermentation of Traditional Chinese Pu-erh Tea
Authors: Zhao Ming , Su Xiao Q. , Nian Bo , Chen Li J. , Zhang Dong L. , Duan Shuang M. , Wang Li Y. , Shi Xing Y. , Jiang Bin , Jiang Wei W. , Lv Cai Y. , Wang Dao P. , Shi Yang , Xiao Ying , Wu Jian-Lin , Pan Ying H. , Ma Yan
Published: November 2019

Fermented foods play important roles in diets worldwide and account for approximately one-third of all foods and beverages consumed. To date, traditional fermentation has used spontaneous fermentation. The microbiome in fermentation has direct impacts on the quality and safety of fermented foods and contributes to the preservation of traditional methods. Here, we used an integrated meta-omics approach to study the microbiome in the fermentation of pu-erh tea, which is a well-known Chinese fermented food with a special flavor and healthful benefits. This study advanced the knowledge of microbiota, metabolites, and enzymes in the fermentation of pu-erh tea. These novel insights shed light onto the complex microbiome in pu-erh fermentation and highlight the power of integrated meta-omics approaches in understanding the microbiome in food fermentation ecosystems.
Impact of youth sports specialisation on career and task-specific athletic performance: a systematic review following the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine (AMSSM) Collaborative Research Network’s 2019 Youth Early Sport Specialisation Summit
Authors: Kliethermes Stephanie A , Nagle Kyle , Côté Jean , Malina Robert M , Faigenbaum Avery , Watson Andrew , Feeley Brian , Marshall Stephen William , LaBella Cynthia R , Herman Daniel C , Tenforde Adam , Beutler Anthony I , Jayanthi Neeru
Published: November 2019

Objective

The impact, positive or negative, of youth sport specialisation (YSS) on short-term and long-term performance is not fully understood; however, the desire to maximise performance goals is generally considered the primary reason children and adolescents specialise at a young age. We performed a systematic review of original research to establish the association of YSS and task-focused or career-focused performance outcomes.

Design

Systematic review.

Data sources

Databases searched include PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane, CINAHL and SPORTDiscus.

Eligibility criteria

We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to identify peer-reviewed research articles published in English between 1 January 1990 and 31 December 2018 that reported original findings on the association of YSS and performance outcomes. Studies without an explicit measure of sport specialisation, for example, volume measures without measuring sport specialisation, were excluded.

Results

Twenty-two articles were included in the final review; 15 addressed career performance outcomes and 7 considered task performance outcomes. All identified studies were cross-sectional or retrospective in design. The proportion of elite athletes who specialised early ranged between 7% and 85%, depending on sport and definition of specialisation. Elite athletes often specialised between the ages of 14 and 15 compared with their non-elite or semi-elite peers who typically specialised prior to 13 years. In addition, neuromuscular control, anterior reach asymmetry and physical task outcomes did not differ by specialisation status.

Conclusion

The volume and methodological rigour of published research in this field are limited. Our review suggests that YSS is not required to achieve success at elite levels. YSS also does not appear to improve task-related performance (eg, anterior reach, neuromuscular control) outcomes for specialised athletes when compared with non-specialised athletes during childhood and adolescence.
Does weight-related stigmatisation and discrimination depend on educational attainment and level of income? A systematic review
Authors: Bernard Marie , Fankhänel Thomas , Riedel-Heller Steffi G , Luck-Sikorski Claudia
Published: November 2019

Objectives

Obesity is considered a global health issue, because of its health-related consequences and also because of its impact on social status as a result of stigma. This study aims to review the quantitative state of research regarding socioeconomic characteristics’ influence on weight-related stigmatisation and discrimination. Based on Bourdieu’s Theory of Class and his concept of ‘habitus’, it is assumed that people with a higher level of education and income show stronger negative attitudes towards people with obesity.

Method

A narrative systematic literature review was conducted in 2017 using PubMed, PsychINFO, Web of Science and the Cochrane Library. Seventeen studies that measured weight bias and either educational attainment or level of income were included in the analysis.

Results

The results of the studies included were inconsistent: six of these studies were found to support the hypothesis, whereas two of the studies contradicted it. The remaining seven studies did not show any significant correlation between weight bias and either education or income.

Conclusion

In light of the inconsistent and heterogeneous results of the studies that report a significant association between weight bias and socioeconomic variables, the findings must be discussed concerning their cultural context, that is, cultural and governmental differences. Furthermore, educational attainment seems to be more likely to predict weight bias than income. The review revealed a lack of research when it came to examining the impact of socioeconomic capital on weight bias.
Adaptation and validation of the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Adolescents (PAQ-A) among Polish adolescents: cross-sectional study
Authors: Wyszyńska Justyna , Matłosz Piotr , Podgórska-Bednarz Justyna , Herbert Jarosław , Przednowek Krzysztof , Baran Joanna , Dereń Katarzyna , Mazur Artur
Published: November 2019

Objective

The lack of a widely accepted questionnaire used to assess the physical activity (PA) of adolescents in the Polish language creates a need to introduce such a valid, reliable, inexpensive and quick tool for assessment. This study was designed to culturally adapt and validate the Physical Activity Questionnaires for Adolescents (PAQ-A) in the Polish language.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Participants and outcome measures

Cultural adaptation of the Polish version of the PAQ-A was performed following the standardised questionnaires cultural adaptation process. In a sample of 78 adolescents aged 14–19 years, the PAQ-A test–retest was administered within a 1-week interval. Reliability was analysed by the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and internal consistency with Cronbach’s α. Participants completed the PAQ-A, and wore an accelerometer for 7 consecutive days. The PAQ-A was compared with PA parameters obtained using the accelerometer.

Results

Test–retest reliability showed ICC=0.97 for the total score of PAQ-A. Internal consistency was excellent (α=0.93). The PAQ-A was very strongly correlated with steps per day (r=0.94) and with moderate-to-vigorous PA (r=0.81) assessed by the accelerometer.

Conclusions

The Polish version of the PAQ-A is a valuable tool to estimate general levels of PA among adolescents from 14 to 19 years old.
Prognostic factors of carbon monoxide poisoning in Taiwan: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Pan Ke-Ting , Shen Chih-Hao , Lin Fu-Gong , Chou Yu-Ching , Croxford Ben , Leonardi Giovanni , Huang Kun-Lun
Published: November 2019

Objectives

To identify the risk factors related to the prognosis of carbon monoxide (CO)-poisoned patients in the hospital.

Design

Retrospective observational study.

Setting

Tri-Service General Hospital, Taiwan.

Methods

We conducted a review of the medical records of 669 CO-poisoned patients, who were admitted to the Department of Emergency, Tri-Service General Hospital, Taiwan, from 2009 to 2014. Demographic, clinical and laboratory data were collected for analysis. In the study, the end points for poor outcome were patients who either still had sequelae, were bedridden or died after treatment. The independent t-test, χ2test and binary logistic regression were used to identify the association between the prognostic factors and the outcomes.

Results

The logistic regression analysis confirmed that the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score (p=0.008) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) (p=0.002) were related to poor outcomes. Furthermore, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve showed that the cut-off point of intubation days was 1.5 days (area under the ROC curve [AUC]=0.793) for all patients and 2.5 days (AUC=0.817) for patients with intubation when predicting poor outcomes.

Conclusion

We identified the factors that most strongly predict the prognosis of CO poisoning, including the GCS score, serum BUN and intubation days. Moreover, the number of hyperbaric oxygen treatments seems to have impact of the outcome.