bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GammaTile® brachytherapy in the treatment of recurrent glioblastomas
Authors: Gessler Dominic J , Neil Elizabeth C , Shah Rena , Levine Joseph , Shanks James , Wilke Christopher , Reynolds Margaret , Zhang Shunqing , Özütemiz Can , Gencturk Mehmet , Folkertsma Mark , Bell W Robert , Chen Liam , Ferreira Clara , Dusenbery Kathryn , Chen Clark C
Published: December 2021

Background

GammaTile® (GT) is a recent U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cleared brachytherapy platform. Here, we report clinical outcomes for recurrent glioblastoma patients after GT treatment following maximal safe resection.

Methods

We prospectively followed twenty-two consecutive Isocitrate Dehydrogenase (IDH) wild-type glioblastoma patients (6 O6-Methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase methylated (MGMTm); sixteen MGMT unmethylated (MGMTu)) who underwent maximal safe resection of recurrent tumor followed by GT placement.

Results

The cohort consisted of 14 second and eight third recurrences. In terms of procedural safety, there was one 30-day re-admission (4.5%) for an incisional cerebrospinal fluid leak, which resolved with lumbar drainage. No other wound complications were observed. Six patients (27.2%) declined in Karnofsky Performance Score (KPS) after surgery due to worsening existing deficits. One patient suffered a new-onset seizure postsurgery (4.5%). There was one (4.5%) 30-day mortality from intracranial hemorrhage secondary to heparinization for an ischemic limb. The mean follow-up was 733 days (range 279–1775) from the time of initial diagnosis. Six-month local control (LC6) and twelve-month local control (LC12) were 86 and 81%, respectively. Median progression-free survival (PFS) was comparable for MGMTu and MGMTm patients (~8.0 months). Median overall survival (OS) was 20.0 months for the MGMTu patients and 37.4 months for MGMTm patients. These outcomes compared favorably to data in the published literature and an independent glioblastoma cohort of comparable patients without GT treatment.

Conclusions

This clinical experience supports GT brachytherapy as a treatment option in a multi-modality treatment strategy for recurrent glioblastomas.
Osimertinib in advanced EGFR-mutant lung adenocarcinoma with asymptomatic brain metastases: an open-label, 3-arm, phase II pilot study
Authors: Peled Nir , Kian Waleed , Inbar Edna , Goldstein Iris M , Zemel Melanie , Rotem Ofer , Rozenblum Anna B , Nechushtan Hovav , Dudnik Elizabeth , Levin Daniel , Zer Alona , Keren-Rosenberg Shoshana , Yust-Katz Shlomit , Fuchs Vered , Remilah Areen A , Shelef Ilan , Roisman Laila C
Published: December 2021

Background

Osimertinib is selective for both epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-tyrosine-kinase inhibitor (TKI) sensitizing and Thr790Met mutations. While intracranial activity of osimertinib is documented in larger trials, a prospective study focusing exclusively on patients with asymptomatic brain metastases has not been reported.

Methods

In this nonrandomized, phase II, open-label, 3-arm prospective proof-of-concept pilot study, 48 patients with metastatic EGFR-mutant lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) received osimertinib 80 mg daily. Patients were either treatment naive (arm A = 20) or previously treated with an EGFR-TKI and Thr790Met positive (arm B = 18) or negative (arm C = 10). In cases of isolated intracranial progression, osimertinib dose was escalated (160 mg). The primary endpoints were intracranial objective response rate (iORR) and intracranial disease control rate (iDCR). The secondary endpoint was intracranial progression-free survival (iPFS). This study is registered at Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT02736513.

Results

The iORRs were 84.2%, 66.7%, and 50% and the iDCRs were 94.7%, 94.4%, and 80% in arms A, B, and C, respectively. The median iPFS was 11.8 months (95% CI 7.7 to NA), 7.6 months (95% CI 5.3 to NA), and 6.3 months (95% CI 3.9 to NA) in arms A, B, and C, respectively. Following dose escalation, pooled iORR was 54% (arm A = 5, arm B = 4, arm C = 2). Adverse events were similar to those in previously published literature.

Conclusion

Osimertinib demonstrated high efficacy on brain metastases. All trial arms displayed a significant decrease in the number and diameter of target lesions. These findings indicate that osimertinib is effective for Thr790Met-positive and -negative LUAD patients with asymptomatic brain metastases. Therefore, osimertinib should be considered a viable option for EGFR-mutant patients with brain involvement regardless of their Thr790Met mutation status.
L’évaluation et la prise en charge de la paralysie néonatale du plexus brachial
Authors: Shah Vibhuti , Coroneos Christopher J , Ng Eugene
Published: December 2021

La paralysie néonatale du plexus brachial, qui se manifeste à la naissance, peut être débilitante et avoir des conséquences prolongées. La présentation à la naissance dépend de l’importance de la lésion nerveuse et peut varier entre une faiblesse transitoire et une parésie globale qui touche l’amplitude active des mouvements. Il est essentiel de procéder à des examens cliniques sériels après la naissance et pendant la période néonatale (jusqu’à l’âge d’un mois) pour évaluer le rétablissement et prédire le pronostic à long terme. Le présent document de principes décrit l’évaluation des facteurs de risque des nouveau-nés à la naissance, l’orientation précoce vers une équipe multidisciplinaire spécialisée et les communications entre les intervenants communautaires et les spécialistes pour optimiser le pronostic pendant l’enfance.
Detectable electric current induced by the dark matter axion in a conductor
Authors: Iwazaki Aiichi
Published: December 2021

We propose a method of detecting the dark matter axion by using two slabs of a conductor. The flat surfaces are set face to face, parallel to each other. An external magnetic field B parallel to the surfaces is applied. Radiation converted from the axion arises between the two slabs. When we tune the spacing l between the two surfaces such that l = π/ma with axion mass ma, a resonance occurs so that the radiation becomes strong. Furthermore, the electric current flowing on the surface of the slabs is enhanced. We show that the electric current is large enough to be detectable at the resonance. It reaches 0.7 × 10−9 A $(10^{-5}\, \mbox{eV}/m_a)^{1/2} \, (B/5\, \mbox{T}) \, (L/10\, \mbox{cm}) \, (\sigma /3.3\times 10^7 \, \rm eV)$ using 6N copper for the square slabs with side length L and high electrical conductivity σ at temperature T ∼ 1 K. The power of the Joule heating is $0.3\times 10^{-22} \, \mbox{W} \, (B/5 \, \mbox{T})^2 \, (10^{-5} \, \mbox{eV}/m_a)^{1/2} \, (L/10 \, \mbox{cm})^2 \, (\sigma /3.3\times 10^7 \, \rm eV)$. When we amplify the power using an LC circuit with factor QLC, the signal-to-noise ratio is $4.5\times 10^{4} \, (Q_\mathrm{LC}/10^6) \, (B/5 \, \mbox{T})^2 \, (t_\mathrm{obs}/1\, \mathrm{s})^{1/2}\, (10^{-5} \, \mbox{eV}/m_a) \, (L/10 \, \mbox{cm})^2 \, (\sigma /3.3\times 10^7 \, \rm eV)$ with an observation time of tobs.
Outcomes of a Two-Visit Protocol for Long Acting Reversible Contraception for Adolescents and Young Adults
Authors: Wilkinson Tracey A. , Edmonds Brownsyne Tucker , Cheng Erika R.
Published: December 2021

(Abstracted from Contraception 2021; doi:10.1016/j.contraception.2021.07.107)

Given their effectiveness, intrauterine devices (IUDs) and contraceptive arm implants are recommended for first-line contraception in nulliparous women by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Same-day contraceptive placement is often unavailable for nonmedical reasons, despite evidence that it increases uptake and utilization resulting in significant reduction in unintended pregnancy, abortion, and Medicaid costs.
A Novel Algorithm With Paired Predictive Indexes to Stratify the Risk Levels of Neonates With Invasive Bacterial Infections: A Multicenter Cohort Study
Authors: Yin Zhanghua , Chen Yan , Zhong Wenhua , Shan Liqin , Zhang Qian , Gong Xiaohui , Li Jing , Lei Xiaoping , Zhou Qin , Zhao Youyan , Chen Chao , Zhang Yongjun
Published: December 2021

Background:

Our aim was to develop a predictive model comprising clinical and laboratory parameters for early identification of full-term neonates with different risks of invasive bacterial infections (IBIs).

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective study including 1053 neonates presenting in 9 tertiary hospitals in China from January 2010 to August 2019. An algorithm with paired predictive indexes (PPIs) for risk stratification of neonatal IBIs was developed. Predictive performance was validated using k-fold cross-validation.

Results:

Overall, 166 neonates were diagnosed with IBIs (15.8%). White blood cell count, C-reactive protein level, procalcitonin level, neutrophil percentage, age at admission, neurologic signs, and ill-appearances showed independent associations with IBIs from stepwise regression analysis and combined into 23 PPIs. Using 10-fold cross-validation, a combination of 7 PPIs with the highest predictive performance was picked out to construct an algorithm. Finally, 58.1% (612/1053) patients were classified as low-risk cases. The sensitivity and negative predictive value of the algorithm were 95.3% (95% confidence interval: 91.7−98.3) and 98.7% (95% confidence interval: 97.8−99.6), respectively. An online calculator based on this algorithm was developed for clinical use.

Conclusions:

The new algorithm constructed for this study was a valuable tool to screen neonates with suspected infection. It stratified risk levels of IBIs and had an excellent predictive performance.
Pediatric chronic sinusitis: diagnosis and management
Authors: Ge Marshall , Liu Derek H. , Ference Elisabeth H.
Published: December 2021

Purpose of review

Review the diagnosis and management of pediatric chronic sinusitis given recent advances in both surgical and medical management

Recent findings

Balloon catheter dilation (BCD) of the sinuses has been used as an adjunct to adenoidectomy or in lieu of traditional endoscopic sinus surgery. BCD has been shown to be a safe technique in children although its efficacy compared to maxillary sinus irrigation or traditional sinus surgery cannot be determined based on current studies.

New advances in BCD and biologics may serve as useful adjuncts in surgical and medical therapy respectively with additional research needed to better delineate the optimal indications for each in the treatment continuum.
Measurement properties of the Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire in populations with musculoskeletal disorders: a systematic review
Authors: Dubé Marc-Olivier , Langevin Pierre , Roy Jean-Sébastien
Published: December 2021

A higher level of pain self-efficacy has been suggested as a predictor of a better outcome in patients with musculoskeletal disorders. The Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (PSEQ) is one of the most frequently used patient-reported outcome measures for pain self-efficacy. The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review that would identify, appraise, and synthetize the psychometric properties of the PSEQ. Embase, MEDLINE, and CINAHL databases were searched for publications reporting on psychometric properties of the PSEQ in populations with musculoskeletal disorders. After applying selection criteria on identified citations, 28 studies (9853 participants) were included. The methodological quality as measured with the COSMIN risk of bias tool varied from adequate to very good for most measurement properties. The results showed a weighted mean intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.86 (range: 0.75–0.93) for test–retest reliability for the original 10-item PSEQ and the minimal detectable change at 95% confidence interval was 11.52 out of 60 points. Effect size and standardized response mean values were 0.53 and 0.63, respectively, whereas the minimal clinically important difference ranged from 5.5 to 8.5 in patients with chronic low back pain. Internal consistency (Cronbach alpha) ranged from 0.79 to 0.95. The results also showed that the PSEQ has low to moderate correlations with measures of quality of life, disability, pain, pain interference, anxiety, depression, and catastrophizing. Finally, the PSEQ has been adapted and validated in 14 languages. Overall, the results demonstrate that the PSEQ has excellent validity, reliability, and responsiveness. Further high-quality studies are needed to determine responsiveness in populations other than chronic low back pain.
Evaluation of hsa-let-7d-5p, hsa-let-7g-5p and hsa-miR-15b-5p plasma levels in patients with Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Poursaei Elham , Abolghasemi Mahsa , Bornehdeli Soghra , Shanehbandi Dariush , Asadi Milad , Sadeghzadeh Mahsa , Rahmanpour Dara , Sadeh Reza Naghdi
Published: December 2021

Background

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder MicroRNAs (miRNAs) may be promising diagnostic biomarkers for AD. Previous evidence shows that miR-15b-5p, hsa-let7g-5p and hsa-let7d-5p might confer potential blood biomarkers for timely diagnosis of AD. Therefore, in this replication study, we aimed to investigate the serum transcript level of these miRNAs to assess for their potential as diagnostic or prognostic biomarker in AD patients.

Methods

Blood samples were obtained from 50 AD patients and 50 age- and sex-matched healthy individuals. Then, total RNA was extracted from serum samples, cDNA was synthesized, and the expression level of miRNAs was measured by the real-time PCR method.

Results

The expression level of hsa-let7d-5p (fold change = 2.14, P = 0.007) and hsa-let7g-5p (fold change = 1.94; P = 0.013) was significantly increased in the AD patients compared to control individuals. However, the difference in the transcription of miR-15b-5p between the two groups was not statistically significant (fold change = 1.08; P = 0.76). The AROC for transcript levels of hsa-let-7d-5p was 0.68 (P = 0.014; 95% CI, 0.39–0.88) and it was 0.64 for hsa-let-7g-5p (P = 0.028; 95% CI, 0.27–0.89). The cut-off value for let-7d-5p had 0.82 sensitivity and 0.34 specificity. Moreover, the cut-off value for hsa-let-7g-5p indicated a 0.79 sensitivity and 0.28 specificity.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest the potential of measuring the transcript levels of hsa-let7d-5p and hsa-let7g-5p miRNAs as a diagnostic biomarker for AD.
Stimulant intolerance in children with Angelman syndrome with hyperactivity: a case series
Authors: Keary Christopher J. , Thom Robyn P. , McDougle Christopher J.
Published: December 2021

Objectives

Angelman syndrome is a neurogenetic disorder resulting from the loss of expression of the ubiquitin-protein ligase E3A gene on chromosome 15. Problematic behaviors including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention are highly prevalent in Angelman syndrome. The efficacy, safety and tolerability of stimulant medications in children with Angelman syndrome for the treatment of ADHD symptoms have not been previously reported.

Methods

We describe three boys with Angelman syndrome who were treated with open-label stimulant medications for ADHD symptoms.

Results

Stimulant medications were highly intolerable, and treatment had to be discontinued after limited dosing in all three cases due to marked increases in hyperactivity and impulsivity along with worsened distractibility.

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggest that stimulant medications may be ineffective and poorly tolerated in children with Angelman syndrome.
Genetics of social anxiety disorder: a systematic review
Authors: Baba Ami , Kloiber Stefan , Zai Gwyneth
Published: December 2021

Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is a common psychiatric disorder, often associated with avoidant temperament. Research studies have implicated a strong genetic architecture of SAD. We have conducted a systematic review on the genetics of SAD and yielded 66 articles. In general, prior research studies have focused on the serotonin transporter, oxytocin receptor, brain-derived neurotrophic factor and catechol-O-methyltransferase genes. Mixed and inconsistent results have been reported. Additional approaches and phenotypes have also been investigated, including pharmacogenetics of treatment response, imaging genetics and gene-environment interactions. Future directions warrant further international collaborative efforts, deep-phenotyping of clinical characteristics including consistent and reliable measurement-based symptom severity, and larger sample sizes to ensure sufficient power for stratification due to the heterogeneity of this chronic and often debilitating condition.
Antibacterial T6SS effectors with a VRR-Nuc domain induce target cell death via DNA Double-Strand Breaks
Authors: Hespanhol Julia Takuno , Sanchez Limache Daniel Enrique , Gonçalves Nicastro Gianlucca , Mead Liam , Llontop Edgar Enrique , Santos Gustavo Chagas , Farah Chuck Shaker , de Souza Robson Francisco , Galhardo Rodrigo da Silva , Lovering Andrew , Santos Ethel Bayer
Published: December 2021

The T6SS (Type VI secretion System) secretes antibacterial effectors into target competitors. Salmonella spp. encode five phylogenetically distinct T6SSs. Here we characterize the function of the SPI-22 T6SS of S. bongori, showing that it has antibacterial activity. We identify a group of antibacterial T6SS effectors (TseV1-4) containing an N-terminal PAAR-like domain and a C-terminal VRR-Nuc domain encoded next to cognate immunity proteins that contain the DUF3396 domain (TsiV1-4). TseV2 and TseV3 are toxic when expressed in Escherichia coli and bacterial competition assays confirm that TseV2 and TseV3 are secreted by the SPI-22 T6SS. Phylogenetic analysis reveals that TseV1-4 are evolutionarily related to enzymes involved in DNA repair. TseV2 and TseV3 maintained the ability to bind DNA, but instead cause specific DNA double-strand breaks and induce the SOS response in target cells. The crystal structure of the TseV3:TsiV3 complex reveals that the immunity protein likely blocks the effector interaction with the DNA substrate. These results expand our knowledge on the function of Salmonella pathogenicity islands, the evolution of toxins used in biological conflicts, and the endogenous mechanism regulating the activity of these toxins.
Cell type-specific inference of differential expression in spatial transcriptomics
Authors: Cable Dylan M. , Murray Evan , Shanmugam Vignesh , Zhang Simon , Diao Michael , Chen Haiqi , Macosko Evan Z. , Irizarry Rafael A. , Chen Fei
Published: December 2021

Spatial transcriptomics enables spatially resolved gene expression measurements at near single-cell resolution. There is a pressing need for computational tools to enable the detection of genes that are differentially expressed (DE) within specific cell types across tissue context. We show that current approaches cannot learn cell type-specific DE due to changes in cell type composition across space and the fact that measurement units often detect transcripts from more than one cell type. Here, we introduce a statistical method, Cell type-Specific Inference of Differential Expression (C-SIDE), that identifies cell type-specific patterns of differential gene expression while accounting for localization of other cell types. We model spatial transcriptomics gene expression as an additive mixture across cell types of general log-linear cell type-specific expression functions. This approach provides a unified framework for defining and identifying gene expression changes in a wide-range of relevant contexts: changes due to pathology, anatomical regions, physical proximity to specific cell types, and cellular microenvironment. Furthermore, our approach enables statistical inference across multiple samples and replicates when such data is available. We demonstrate, through simulations and validation experiments on Slide-seq and MER-FISH datasets, that our approach accurately identifies cell type-specific differential gene expression and provides valid uncertainty quantification. Lastly, we apply our method to characterize spatially-localized tissue changes in the context of disease. In an Alzheimer’s mouse model Slide-seq dataset, we identify plaque-dependent patterns of cellular immune activity. We also find a putative interaction between tumor cells and myeloid immune cells in a Slide-seq tumor dataset. We make our C-SIDE method publicly available as part of the open source R packagehttps://github.com/dmcable/spacexr.
Testing and Validation of Reciprocating Positive Displacement Pump for Benchtop Pulsating Flow Model of Cerebrospinal Fluid Production and Other Physiologic Systems
Authors: Faryami Ahmad , Menkara Adam , Viar Daniel , Harris Carolyn A
Published: December 2021

Background

The flow of physiologic fluids through organs and organs systems is an integral component of their function. The complex fluid dynamics in many organ systems are still not completely understood, and in-vivo measurements of flow rates and pressure provide a testament to the complexity of each flow system. Variability in in-vivo measurements and the lack of control over flow characteristics leave a lot to be desired for testing and evaluation of current modes of treatments as well as future innovations. In-vitro models are particularly ideal for studying neurological conditions such as hydrocephalus due to their complex pathophysiology and interactions with therapeutic measures. The following aims to present the reciprocating positive displacement pump, capable of inducing pulsating flow of a defined volume at a controlled beat rate and amplitude. While the other fluidic applications of the pump are currently under investigation, this study was focused on simulating the pulsating cerebrospinal fluid production across profiles with varying parameters.

Methods

Pumps were manufactured using 3D printed and injection molded parts. The pumps were powered by an Arduino-based board and proprietary software that controls the linear motion of the pumps to achieve the specified output rate at the desired pulsation rate and amplitude. A range of to was tested to evaluate the versatility of the pumps. The accuracy and precision of the pumps’ output were evaluated by obtaining a total of 150 one-minute weight measurements of degassed deionized water per output rate across 15 pump channels. In addition, nine experiments were performed to evaluate the pumps’ control over pulsation rate and amplitude.

Results

volumetric analysis of a total of 1200 readings determined that the pumps achieved the target output volume rate with a mean absolute error of -0.001034283 across the specified domain. It was also determined that the pumps can maintain pulsatile flow at a user-specified beat rate and amplitude.

Conclusion

The validation of this reciprocating positive displacement pump system allows for the future validation of novel designs to components used to treat hydrocephalus and other physiologic models involving pulsatile flow. Based on the promising results of these experiments at simulating pulsatile CSF flow, a benchtop model of human CSF production and distribution could be achieved through the incorporation of a chamber system and a compliance component.
Intravenous whole blood transfusion results in faster recovery of vascular integrity and increased survival in experimental cerebral malaria
Authors: Gul Saba , Ackerman Hans C. , Daniel-Ribeiro Cláudio Tadeu , Carvalho Leonardo J. M.
Published: December 2021

Transfusion of 10 mg/kg of whole blood via intraperitoneal route to mice with late-stage experimental cerebral malaria (ECM) along with artemether has been shown to result in markedly increased survival (75%) compared to artemether alone (51%). Intraperitoneal route was used to overcome the restrictions imposed by injection of large volumes of viscous fluid in small and deranged blood vessels of mice with ECM. In the present study, a method of intravenous transfusion was implemented by injecting 200μL of whole blood through the right jugular vein in mice with late-stage ECM, together with artemether given intraperitoneally, leading to a remarkable increase in survival, from 54% to 90%. On the contrary, mice receiving artemether plus plasma transfusion showed a worse outcome, with only 18% survival. Compared to the intraperitoneal route, intravascular transfusion led to faster and more pronounced recoveries of hematocrit, platelet counts, angiopoietins levels (ANG-1, ANG-2 and ANG-2/ANG-1) and blood brain barrier integrity. These findings indicate that whole blood transfusion when given intravenously show more efficacy over intraperitoneal transfusion, reinforcing evidence for benefit as an adjuvant therapy for cerebral malaria.
Does it pay to be a faithful investor? A risk-based approach performance analysis of Islamic funds vs UCITS schemes
Authors: Falzon Joseph , Bonnici Elaine
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This paper empirically investigates the performance of Islamic funds, which have been praised for weathering the 2008 financial storm relatively well and compares it to a European product designed to protect the most vulnerable of investors, UCITS funds.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper builds on 128 time-series regressions using various factor models to analyse the risk-return relationship of 242 Islamic and UCITS funds relative to a market benchmark, over a 10-year period starting January 2006, to capture severe bear and bull market conditions.

Findings

Islamic funds do not face a competitive disadvantage arising from their strict compliance with Sharīʿah principles, and their performance and investment style is relatively similar to UCITS schemes.

Practical implications

Islamic funds represent a low risk investment due to their very mild betas. Therefore, when forming part of a diversified portfolio, they can act as a hedging tool against adverse market movements.

Social implications

Muslim investors are not punished relative to conventional retail investors when following their own beliefs. Other investors can consider Islamic funds in their portfolio allocation, especially those who seek socially and ethically responsible investments.

Originality/value

This paper fills a lacuna in the existing literature, because the sample is made up of Islamic funds established worldwide and includes not only equity, but also fixed income and mixed allocation funds.
A qualitative study of military officers’ perceptions of the adaptions couples make to meet the military organisation’s implicit expectations
Authors: Ohlsson Alicia , Nilsson Sofia Alexandra , Larsson Gerry
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate military officers’ perception of the implicit expectations the organisation has for the officer’s private life and what implications it may have for gender norms at the organisation, family and individual levels.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative approach, using an inductive thematic analysis, was performed. The data was based on 20 interviews with military officers, including 18 men and 2 women.

Findings

Two main themes, with three subsequent subthemes, were identified. These themes were interpreted as being necessary for the military officer to be able to manage organisational demands. The first included the implicit expectations the organisation had for the family. The three subthemes included the officer’s acceptance of frequent travel demands, adapting private life in accordance to organisational demands and picking a partner that matches the goals of the organisation. The second identified main theme included the military officer’s descriptions of implicit expectations the organisation held for the officer’s partner. Three subthemes were identified, including the partner’s need to be independent and psychologically strong, to take the main responsibility for managing family life and to engage in emotion work with the extended family.

Originality/value

The findings identify important perceptions that military officers have regarding the military’s expectations for their private life and the adaptive behaviors regularly performed. These adaptive behaviors allow the military officer to be able to engage in work that sustains the organisation.
Fabrication and tribological behavior of novel UHMWPE/vitamin-C/graphene nanoplatelets based hybrid composite for joint replacement
Authors: Hussain Omar , Sheikh Shahid Saleem , Ahmad Babar
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This study aims to fabricate and investigate the tribological performance of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE)-based composite materials reinforced with 0.5, 1 and 2 weight percentage of graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) while keeping the weight percentage of vitamin C constant at 2% for each composite.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the composites were fabricated using hot pressing, and the dispersion of GNP/vitamin C/UHMWPE hybrid composite was investigated by X-ray diffraction. Experimental trials were performed according to ASTM F732 on a reciprocating sliding tribometer (pin-on-disc) at human body temperature of 37 ± 1 °C, for a load of 52 N, to assess the role of these fillers on the tribological properties of UHMWPE against Ti6Al4V counter body material under dry and lubricating (human serum) environment.

Findings

In this study, it has been observed that friction and wear behavior of the developed composites improve with increase in weight percentage of GNP, and human serum adheres to the surface of the composite pins upon sliding, resulting in the formation of a film, which results in better wear resistance of the composite pins under human serum lubrication than dry sliding. Scanning electron microscope was used to investigate the worn surface morphological examination of the composite materials. Specific wear rate of 0.76 × 10−7 mm3/Nm was attained for 2 Wt.% GNP-filled composite under human serum lubrication.

Practical implications

The results indicate the compatibility of the composite material used in this study and suggested the in vitro implant application.

Originality/value

The presented work includes novel study of synergistic effect of GNP (which acts as a solid lubricant) and vitamin C (added as an antioxidant) on the tribological performance of UHMWPE under dry and human serum lubrication.
Voice assistants in hospitality: using artificial intelligence for customer service
Authors: Buhalis Dimitrios , Moldavska Iuliia
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Voice assistants (VAs) empower human–computer interactions by recognising human speech and implementing commands pronounced by users. This paper aims to investigate VA-enabled interactions between hotels and guests in the hospitality context. The research positions VAs within the artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled Internet of Things (IoT) context, disrupting old practices and processes. Smart hospitality uses VAs to support effortless value cocreation for guests cost-effectively. The research examines consumer perceptions and expectations of hospitality VAs and explores VA capabilities through expert technology providers.

Design/methodology/approach

This empirical paper investigates the current use and future implications of VAs for hotel environments. It uses qualitative, semi-structured in-depth interviews with 7 expert hospitality VA technology providers and 21 hotel guests who have VA experience. The research adopts a demand and supply approach, addressing the VAs in hospitality holistically.

Findings

The findings illustrate the requirements from both end-users’ sides, hotels and guests, exploring VA advantages and challenges. The analysis demonstrates that VAs increasingly become digital assistants. VA technology helps hotels to improve customer service, expand operational capability and reduce costs. Although in its infancy, VA technology has made progress towards optimising hotel operations and upgrading customer service. The study proposes a speech-enabled interactions model.

Research limitations/implications

This research stimulates the transformation of hospitality services by using VAs and the development of smart hospitality and tourism ecosystems. The study can benefit from further research with hotel managers, to reflect hoteliers’ points of view and investigate their perception of VAs. Further research can also explore different aspects of consumer–VA interaction in different contexts.

Practical implications

The paper makes a significant contribution to hospitality management and human–computer interaction best practices. It supports technology providers to reconsider how to develop suitable technology solutions towards improving their strategic competitiveness. It also explains how to use VAs cost-effectively and profitably while adding value to travellers’ experience.

Originality/value

VA studies are often focussed on the technology in private households, rather than in commercial or hotel spaces. This paper contributes to the emerging literature on AI and IoT in smart hospitality and explores the acceptance and operationalisation of VAs. The research contributes to the conceptualisation of VA-enabled hotel services and explores positive and negative features, as well as future prospects.
Towards a more robust input for stereotomography
Authors: Barros Tiago , Lopes Renato , Chauris Hervé
Published: December 2021

Stereotomography is a slope‐based tomographic method that uses seismic reflection data, consisting of traveltimes and slopes, to estimate the subsurface velocity macro‐model. Here, we interpret the macro‐model as the large‐scale components of the acoustic velocity model of the subsurface. Tomographic methods are often solved with local optimization techniques, which are dependent on the initial input data. In that sense, selecting the correct input data by estimating and picking slopes is a crucial part of the stereotomography problem. In this paper, we address the problem of slope estimation and picking in stereotomography. Our central proposal uses the attributes obtained from the common‐offset common‐reflection‐surface method as input data for stereotomography. We use the global optimization method known as differential evolution to estimate these attributes, resulting in gathers of attributes estimated for the complete seismic data. This strategy presents reliable estimates when the seismic data are highly corrupted by random noise or present geological features that may lead to the failure of classical methods. We also propose an automatic picking strategy to extract the traveltimes and slopes from the common‐offset common‐reflection‐surface attributes gathers. We illustrate with synthetic examples the benefits of using the proposed framework for obtaining input data for stereotomography.
Cross‐listing on the Hong Kong Exchange and Chinese firm innovation: New evidence
Authors: Ma Rufei , He Xu , Xiang Xin
Published: December 2021

It has been well documented that cross‐listing can improve firms' governance quality and reduce equity financing costs, which are crucial for firms' innovation activities. In this paper, we investigate the effect of cross‐listing on the Hong Kong (HK) market on the innovation performance of Chinese mainland firms. We find that both innovation outputs and qualities increase significantly when Chinese mainland firms list their shares on the HK market. Concerning the channels through which cross‐listing encourages innovation, we demonstrate that cross‐listed firms can raise low‐cost funds in the HK market, which facilitates their innovation activities. Moreover, the HK market generates more informative stock prices, which mitigate innovation information asymmetry and also encourage firms' innovation. In general, our paper sheds light on a new factor (cross‐listing) that motivates firms to engage in innovation and highlights cross‐listing's function in improving innovation.
Do crop prices share common trends and common cycles?*
Authors: Vatsa Puneet
Published: December 2021

Global crop prices decidedly co‐move: research supporting this view abounds. What is unclear is how strong the co‐movement is between them. This paper tests for a strong form of co‐movement amongst global crop prices before and after the global financial crisis (GFC) using a multivariate decomposition framework based on a serial‐correlation common feature. More specifically, we analyze common trends (i.e., long‐run co‐movement) and common cycles (i.e., short‐run co‐movement) amongst the global prices of five major crops: corn, palm oil, rice, soybean, and wheat. We show that corn and soybean prices are closely associated in the long and the short run—they respond similarly to persistent and transitory shocks. Furthermore, their associations have strengthened since the GFC. In contrast, the co‐movement of rice prices with the other crop prices has weakened during the 2010s. Overall, the cycles are relatively muted after the GFC, indicating that the five crop prices are trend‐dominated during this period; the observed prices adhere closely to their long‐run trends.
Trust in Islamic Business‐to‐Business Relationships: Evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Wijaya Ibrahim Fatwa , Moro Andrea , Belghitar Yacine
Published: December 2021

We examine the role of trust within Islamic culture in business‐to‐business relationships by exploring the link between credit officers’ trust in business customers and their financing decisions. In line with our framework, which is based on the fact that Islamic culture is characterized by a collectivistic approach and clan‐based social structure, we find that value‐based trust is more important than competence‐based trust in explaining business relationships. The results support the argument that Islamic culture business relationships are grounded more on the principles, values and norms that a partner brings to the relationship than on business skills. Our results are robust to endogeneity and multilevel issues.
Compulsory separation of women prisoners from their babies following childbirth: Uncertainty, loss and disenfranchised grief
Authors: Abbott Laura , Scott Tricia , Thomas Hilary
Published: December 2021

There is growing evidence to show increased mental ill health in women compulsorily separated from their babies at birth (Cantwell et al., MBRRACE‐UK, 2018:56). For imprisoned women, the risk of self‐harm and suicide may be exacerbated. This article draws on in‐depth interviews with a sample of 28 imprisoned pregnant women/new mothers, 10 prison staff and observations to discuss the experience of separation from or anticipation of separation of women from their babies. Oakley (Signs, 4:607–631, 1980) reflected on the transition to motherhood with reference to the sociology of loss of identity. Women who have been compulsorily separated from their babies experience subjugated loss out of place with societal norms. The experiences of compulsory separation, in relation to concepts of disenfranchised grief, resonate with Lovell's (Social Science & Medicine, 17:755–761, 1983) research into the altered identities of mothers when loss occurs through late miscarriage or stillbirth. Additionally, this type of complex loss also denies a woman her identity as a ‘mother’. This article offers a fresh sociological perspective on the ways loss and grief are experienced by women facing separation from their babies in prison, drawing on concepts of uncertainty, loss and disenfranchised grief.
Infracranial radiographic comparison for human identification: A study of image quality and tissue shielding effects
Authors: Hona Te Wai Pounamu T. , Byrd John E. , Stephan Carl N.
Published: December 2021

In this study, we explore how image resolution and tissue shielding can impact correct classification rates (CCRs) of infracranial radiographic comparisons undertaken using small field‐of‐view radiographs. Thirty‐six identification arrays (using clavicles and seventh cervical vertebra) were constructed with each array comprised of five radiographs: one X‐ray of a single dry bone (postmortem [PM] skeletal image) and four simulated antemortem [AM] radiographs (radiographs taken pre‐skeletization). One AM radiograph in each array represented the ground truth match to the PM radiograph (=25% rate of randomly selecting the correct match). Radiographs were digitally manipulated, so that four varieties of decreasing blur (Gaussian blur = 12–0 pr across 24 arrays), and, for PM clavicles, four varieties of decreasing hard tissue shielding (opacity of 40–0% across 12 arrays) existed. Arrays were evaluated, for their correct PM/AM pair, by 8 anthropologists trained in chest radiograph comparison (CXR; either currently or formerly competency certified by the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency CXR training program), 28 current American Board of Forensic Anthropology (ABFA) diplomates and 30 novices. Analysts’ CCRs substantially improved when Gaussian blur was <10 pr (55% CCR at >10 pr vs. 89% for <10 pr). Tissue shielding effects increased CCRs on average by +10% for each −10% opacity step (between 40–0% opacity). The CXR anthropologists were the most tolerant of the more challenging identification contexts (highest blur and opacity), reconfirming that analyst training and expertise is an important factor, especially when poorer quality radiographic images are the subject of analysis.
Impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on perinatal care and outcomes in the United States: An interrupted time series analysis
Authors: Riley Taylor , Nethery Elizabeth , Chung Esther K. , Souter Vivienne
Published: December 2021

Background

Hospitals quickly adapted perinatal care to mitigate SARS‐CoV‐2 transmission at the onset of the COVID‐19 pandemic. The objective of this study was to estimate the impact of pandemic‐related hospital policy changes on perinatal care and outcomes in one region of the United States.

Methods

This interrupted time series analysis used retrospective data from consecutive singleton births at 15 hospitals in the Pacific Northwest from 2017 to 2020. The primary outcomes were those hypothesized to be affected by pandemic‐related hospital policies and included labor induction, epidural use, oxytocin augmentation, mode of delivery, and early discharge (<48 hours after cesarean and <24 hours after vaginal births). Secondary outcomes included preterm birth, severe maternal morbidity, low 5‐minute Apgar score, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission, and 30‐day readmission. Segmented Poisson regression models estimated the outcome level shift changes after the pandemic onset, controlling for underlying trends, seasonality, and stratifying by parity.

Results

No statistically significant changes were detected in intrapartum interventions or mode of delivery after onset of the pandemic. Early discharge increased for all births following cesarean and vaginal birth. Newborn readmission rates increased but only among nulliparas (aRR: 1.49, 95%CI: 1.17, 1.91). Among multiparas, decreases were observed in preterm birth (aRR: 0.90, 95%CI: 0.84, 0.96), low 5‐minute Apgar score (aRR: 0.75, 95%CI: 0.68, 0.81), and term NICU admission rates (aRR: 0.85, 95%CI: 0.80, 0.91).

Conclusions

Increases in early discharge and newborn readmission rates among nulliparas suggest a need for more postpartum support during the pandemic. Decreases in preterm birth and term NICU admission among multiparas may have implications beyond the pandemic and deserve further study.
A multidimensional examination of math anxiety and engagement on math achievement
Authors: Quintero Michaela , Hasty Leslie , Li Tianyu , Song Seowon , Wang Zhe
Published: December 2021

Background

Math anxiety (MA) and math achievement are generally negatively associated.

Aims

This study investigated whether and how classroom engagement behaviors mediate the negative association between MA and math achievement.

Sample

Data were drawn from an ongoing longitudinal study that examines the roles of affective factors in math learning. Participants consisted of 207 students from 4th through 6th grade (50% female).

Methods

Math anxiety was measured by self‐report using the Mathematics Anxiety Scale for Children (Chiu & Henry, 1990, Measurement and valuation in Counseling and Development, 23, 121). Students self‐reported their engagement in math classrooms using a modified version of the Math and Science Engagement Scale (Wang et al., 2016, Learning and Instruction, 43, 16). Math achievement was assessed using the Applied Problem, Calculations, and Number Matrices subtests from the Woodcock‐Johnson IV Tests of Achievement (Schrank et al., 2014, Woodcock‐Johnson IV Tests of Achievement. Riverside). Mediation analyses were conducted to examine the mediating role of classroom engagement in the association between MA and math achievement.

Results

Students with higher MA demonstrated less cognitive‐behavioral and emotional engagement compared to students with lower MA. Achievement differences among students with various levels of MA were partly accounted for by their cognitive‐behavioral engagement in the math classroom.

Conclusions

Overall, students with high MA exhibit avoidance patterns in everyday learning, which may act as a potential mechanism for explaining why high MA students underperform their low MA peers.
Experiences of discrimination and oral health‐related quality of life among foreign‐born older Chinese Americans: Does resilience play a mediating role?
Authors: Mao Weiyu , Wu Bei , Chi Iris , Yang Wei , Dong XinQi
Published: December 2021

Objectives

It is well‐established that racial discrimination influences quality of life, but there is scarce evidence about how racial discrimination affects oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL). Furthermore, the pathways linking racial discrimination and OHRQoL remain unknown. Guided by the integrative framework of immigration, ageing, and oral health, psychosocial stressors and resources exert influences on OHRQoL. In addition, according to the compensatory model of resilience, resilient resources could counteract risk exposures to stressors given specific outcomes. Hence, this study examined the relationship between experiences of discrimination and OHRQoL and investigated resilience as a mediator in such a relationship among older Chinese immigrants.

Methods

Data came from the Population Study of Chinese Elderly in Chicago collected between 2017 and 2019. The working sample included 3054 foreign‐born older Chinese Americans aged 60 years or older. OHRQoL was measured by seven items from the Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index. Experiences of discrimination (yes or no) were measured by the 9‐item Experiences of Discrimination instrument. Resilience was measured by the 10‐item Connor Davidson Resilience Scale. Mediation analysis was conducted to examine the direct and indirect pathways towards OHRQoL.

Results

Experiences of discrimination were directly associated with poorer OHRQoL (b = −0.98, P < .05). Resilience partially mediated the relationship between discrimination experiences and OHRQoL. Specifically, discrimination experiences were associated with weaker resilience (b = −1.58, P < .05), and weaker resilience was associated with poorer OHRQoL (b = 0.06, P < .05).

Conclusions

Findings illustrate the importance of studying racial discrimination and resilience in OHRQoL. Interventions need to consider individuals’ discrimination experiences and stress coping abilities to promote OHRQoL.
The ‘walking with friends to school’ project and its contribution to independent mobility, self‐esteem and happiness
Authors: Berasategi Naiara , Legorburu Idoia , Aliri Jone , Alonso Israel
Published: December 2021

The purpose of the present study was to contribute to the international scientific literature that highlights the benefits of children walking to school without adult supervision, and its influence on aspects such as mobility autonomy and health (among others). The study included 215 children from a public school in the municipality of Bilbao, Spain in the 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th grades of Primary Education. The questionnaire consisted of different validated scales on independence of mobility, self‐esteem and happiness. Our findings suggest that students who participate in the ‘friendly paths’ project have greater independent mobility in comparison with those who do not, whilst it is noteworthy that this type of project primarily affects the closer spaces or school journeys. Moreover, our findings indicate that variables such as gender and age are determining factors in the independence of mobility, with older children showing greater autonomy.