bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiology of COVID-19 and public health restrictions during the first wave of the pandemic in Ireland in 2020
Authors: Conway Robert , Kelly David M , Mullane Paul , Ni Bhuachalla Cliodhna , O’Connor Lois , Buckley Claire , Kearney Patricia M , Doyle Sarah
Published: February 2021

Background

We describe the epidemiological trends and report and review the public health restrictions implemented during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Ireland.

Methods

The study reviewed confirmed cases of COVID-19 notified from 1 March to 18 July 2020. Data were obtained from the national COVID-19 Data Hub, the National Health Protection Surveillance Centre, the National Contact Management Programme and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.

Results

A total of 25 617 cases were notified during the study period. Weekly cases and deaths peaked in mid-April 2020 at 5701 and 316, respectively. Mean number of close contacts per case was lowest at 0.7 in April, rising to 6.6 by July. Outbreak settings shifted from travel and workplace in March, to healthcare in April. Restrictions implemented on 12 March extended to full lockdown on 27 March. Phased relaxation of restrictions commenced 18 May. Effective suppression of community transmission of COVID-19 was achieved by June 2020.

Conclusion

Lockdown is a crude population-level restriction effective in controlling COVID-19. Phased relaxation of restrictions in Ireland, however, led to an immediate increase in mean number of contacts per case, which facilitates viral transmission unless individual-level restrictions are adhered to. This demonstrates a limitation of lockdown as a long-term mechanism of pandemic control.
ESTIMATION OF THERMAL & EPITHERMAL NEUTRON FLUX AND GAMMA DOSE DISTRIBUTION IN A MEDICAL CYCLOTRON FACILITY FOR RADIATION PROTECTION PURPOSES USING GOLD FOILS AND GATE 9
Authors: Abolaban Fouad A , Alawi Mohammed A , Taha Eslam M , Elmoujarkach Ezzat , Banoqitah Essam M , Alhawsawi Abdulsalam M , De Maio Paolo , Lopopolo Gaetano , Tolomeo Anna , Dimiccoli Vincenzo , Nisbet Andrew
Published: February 2021

The aim of this study is to characterise the neutron flux generated directly behind targets used in medical cyclotrons. The characterisation process aims at determining the feasibility of using the generated neutrons for research purposes in neutron activation analysis. The study was performed by activating gold foils placed directly behind the cyclotron targets. The thermal and epithermal neutron flux were found to be 4.5E+05 ± 8.78E+04 neutrons cm−2 s−1 and 2.13E+06 ± 8.59E+04 neutrons cm−2 s−1, respectively. The flux value is the same order of magnitude listed in the manual produced by the cyclotron manufacturer. The results are encouraging and show high potential for using the cyclotron facility as a thermal neutron source for research purposes. However, it is important radiation protection procedures be followed to ensure the safety of researchers due to the high gamma dose rate measured directly behind the target at 2.46 Sv/h using an OSL chip during the beam on time.
Interpretation Acts—Are They, and (How) Do They Make for, Great Law?
Authors: Carter Ross
Published: February 2021

The paper considers the purposes and evolution of Interpretation Acts, including the following points:

• how, as default law, they inform and interact with other legislation;

• their scope as, and interaction with other, interpretation law (including links with interpretation legislation in related jurisdictions);

• ways they can stop being, or fail to be, great law (that is, law that is accessible, fit for purpose, and constitutionally sound);

• ways policy-makers and drafters can meet the challenges (in Te Reo Māori: ngā wero) of making them, and all the other law that interacts with them, great law.
Dissecting Incongruence between Concatenation- and Quartet-Based Approaches in Phylogenomic Data
Authors: Shen Xing-Xing , Steenwyk Jacob L , Rokas Antonis
Published: February 2021

Topological conflict or incongruence is widespread in phylogenomic data. Concatenation- and coalescent-based approaches often result in incongruent topologies, but the causes of this conflict can be difficult to characterize. We examined incongruence stemming from conflict the between likelihood-based signal (quantified by the difference in gene-wise log-likelihood score or $\Delta $GLS) and quartet-based topological signal (quantified by the difference in gene-wise quartet score or $\Delta $GQS) for every gene in three phylogenomic studies in animals, fungi, and plants, which were chosen because their concatenation-based IQ-TREE (T1) and quartet-based ASTRAL (T2) phylogenies are known to produce eight conflicting internal branches (bipartitions). By comparing the types of phylogenetic signal for all genes in these three data matrices, we found that 30–36% of genes in each data matrix are inconsistent, that is, each of these genes has a higher log-likelihood score for T1 versus T2 (i.e., $\Delta $GLS $>$0) whereas its T1 topology has lower quartet score than its T2 topology (i.e., $\Delta $GQS $<$0) or vice versa. Comparison of inconsistent and consistent genes using a variety of metrics (e.g., evolutionary rate, gene tree topology, distribution of branch lengths, hidden paralogy, and gene tree discordance) showed that inconsistent genes are more likely to recover neither T1 nor T2 and have higher levels of gene tree discordance than consistent genes. Simulation analyses demonstrate that the removal of inconsistent genes from data sets with low levels of incomplete lineage sorting (ILS) and low and medium levels of gene tree estimation error (GTEE) reduced incongruence and increased accuracy. In contrast, removal of inconsistent genes from data sets with medium and high ILS levels and high GTEE levels eliminated or extensively reduced incongruence, but the resulting congruent species phylogenies were not always topologically identical to the true species trees.[Conflict; gene tree; phylogenetic signal; phylogenetics; phylogenomics; Tree of Life.]
‘You Say Tomatoes’ – avoiding trustee liability for breach of duties of care in English and US style trust deeds
Authors: O’Hagan Patrick
Published: February 2021

This article examines exoneration and exculpation provisions in English and US style trust deeds and considers the extent to which the law applicable to these is the same and how it may differ. The question is how far a trustee may go to exclude liability for breach of duty of care and the legal basis for this. It then examines what perhaps should be the initial question, namely, the extent to which a deed of trust can remove such duties so that no trustee liability arises in the first place. The question is the extent to which removal of duties of care is permissible.
Accountability for authority
Authors: Flannigan Robert
Published: February 2021

Trustees and beneficiaries need to understand how fiduciary accountability regulates trustee authority. I intend to advance that understanding by explaining in abstract terms the nature of surrogate authority and fiduciary accountability. I will explain that opportunism is a concern wherever authority is transferred to a surrogate, and that fiduciary accountability is the generic response of the law across contexts.
Effects of induction on the farrowing process and piglet blood parameters at the time of farrowing1
Authors: Mills Kayla M , Shirley Larissa K , Sharp Katharine , Garcia Ricardo , Suarez-Trujillo Aridany , Stewart Kara R
Published: February 2021

Historically, sows have been induced to farrow using prostaglandin followed by an injection of oxytocin 24 h later. Benefits of induction can include decreased rate of stillbirths, dystocia, and postnatal mortality along with increasing the likelihood of farrowings being attended. Several studies have indicated that oxytocin administration may negatively impact fetal oxygen supply during parturition, potentially from umbilical cords breaking prior to birth, resulting in increased preweaning mortality. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine if various induction protocols impact umbilical cord breakage and fetal blood parameters at birth. Fifty-eight primiparous and multiparous sows were assigned to one of three treatments: no induction (NO; n = 24) or 2 cc prostaglandin administered on day 114 of gestation followed by either 1 cc of oxytocin 24 h later (OXY24; n = 13) or 0.5 cc of oxytocin at 6 and 12 h after prostaglandin (OXY6; n = 21). Details of the farrowing process were recorded, and umbilical cord blood was collected from piglets at birth and evaluated on an iSTAT machine using an Abbott EC8+ test cartridge. There were no differences in total born, number born alive, stillborns, mummies, or assistance needed during farrowing. Induced sows were more likely to farrow by day 115 compared to naturally farrowing sows (P = 0.02). Sows in the OXY24 treatment tended to have longer farrowings when compared to both NO and OXY6 (4.8 vs. 3.6 vs. 3.9 h; P = 0.09). Colostrum from OXY6 sows tended to have a greater amount of lactose present than NO and OXY24 (P = 0.05). Colostrum from sows with longer gestation lengths had a higher percentage of fat (P = 0.03). Piglets born from NO sows had higher base excess, total carbon dioxide, and glucose, which suggests that these piglets had prolonged moments of asphyxiation (P < 0.01). OXY24 piglets had the lowest blood pH which is indicative of hypoxic birthing conditions (P < 0.01). Preweaning mortality was driven largely by a low birth weight coupled with low colostrum intake (P = 0.03). All piglets, regardless of treatment, displayed signs of stress during farrowing. Induction did not influence preweaning mortality but has the potential to decrease the incidence by increasing attended farrowings.
Hepatotoxic effects of melamine exposure from the weaning period in rats: a flow cytometric, electron microscopic, and histopathologic study
Authors: Erisgin Zuleyha , Mutlu Hasan Serdar , Tekelioglu Yavuz , Deveci Engin , Seker Ugur
Published: February 2021

This study aims to investigate the effects of melamine exposure from the weaning period (21st postnatal days in rats) on liver tissue. Female Wistar albino rats (n = 18) were divided into three groups. About 0.1-ml saline was applied to the control group by gavage for 21 days from the postnatal 21st day. The second group was taken 50-mg/kg melamine (in 0.1-ml saline) and the third group was taken 75-mg/kg melamine (in 0.1-ml saline) p.o. On the postnatal 45th day, all rats were sacrificed under anesthesia. Then, liver tissues were cut into three parts and two of them placed in neutral formalin for histopathological and flow cytometric analysis, and one of them placed in 2.5% glutaraldehyde. Histopathological analysis was performed with hematoxylin & eosin, Masson trichrome, periodic acid Schiff stained sections, and also with transmission electron microscopy. Apoptosis (Annexin V positivity) was analyzed by flow cytometry. According to histopathological analysis, hepatocyte damage, sinusoidal dilatation, and inflammatory cell infiltration significantly increased in both melamine groups compared with the control group. Apoptosis significantly increased in the 50 and 75-mg melamine groups compared with the control group. In the results of transmission electron microscopy analysis, there was abnormal chromatin distribution in the hepatocyte nuclei, loss in the cristae of the mitochondria, and organelle loss in large areas in the cytoplasm in both melamine exposure groups. As result, melamine exposure from the weaning period causes liver damage with increasing doses.
Emerging Roles of N6-Methyladenosine (m6A) Epitranscriptomics in Toxicology
Authors: Malovic Emir , Ealy Alyssa , Kanthasamy Arthi , Kanthasamy Anumantha G
Published: February 2021

Epitranscriptomics, the study of chemically modified RNAs, is a burgeoning field being explored in a variety of scientific disciplines. Of the currently known epitranscriptomic modifications, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methylation is the most abundant. The m6A modification is predominantly regulated by 3 tiers of protein modulators classified as writers, erasers, and readers. Depending upon cellular needs, these proteins function to deposit, remove, or read the methyl modifications on cognate mRNAs. Many environmental chemicals including heavy metals, pesticides, and other toxic pollutants, are all known to perturb transcription and translation machinery to exert their toxic responses. As such, we herein review how the m6A modification may be affected under different toxicological paradigms. Furthermore, we discuss how toxicants can affect the 3 tiers of regulation directly, and how these effects influence the m6A-modified mRNAs. Lastly, we highlight the disparities between published findings and theories, especially those concerning the m6A reader tier of regulation. In the far-reaching field of toxicology, m6A epitranscriptomics provides another enticing avenue to explore new mechanisms and therapies for a diverse range of environmentally linked disorders and diseases.
Perceived Vulnerability and Propensity to Adopt Best Management Practices for Huanglongbing Disease of Citrus in California
Authors: Garcia-Figuera Sara , Deniston-Sheets Holly , Grafton-Cardwell Elizabeth , Babcock Bruce , Lubell Mark , McRoberts Neil
Published: February 2021

Huanglongbing (HLB) disease of citrus, which is associated with the bacterium ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’, has been confined to residential properties in Southern California 8 years after it was first detected in the state. To prevent the spread of HLB to commercial citrus groves, growers have been asked to adopt a portfolio of voluntary best management practices. This study evaluates the citrus industry’s propensity to adopt these practices using surveys and a novel multivariate ordinal regression model. We estimate the impact on adoption of perceived vulnerability to HLB, intentions to stay informed and communicate about the disease and various socio-economic factors, and reveal what practices are most likely to be jointly adopted as an integrated approach to HLB. Survey participants were in favor of scouting and surveying for HLB symptoms, but they were reluctant to test trees, use early detection technologies (EDTs), and install barriers around citrus groves. Most practices were perceived as complementary, particularly visual inspections and some combinations of preventive practices with tests and EDTs. Participants who felt more vulnerable to HLB had a higher propensity to adopt several practices, as did those who intended to stay informed and communicate with the coordinators of the HLB control program, although this effect was modulated by the perceived vulnerability to HLB. Communication with neighbors and the size of citrus operations also influenced practice adoption. Based on these results, we provide recommendations for outreach about HLB management in California and suggest future directions for research about the adoption of plant disease management practices.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2021 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
Severe liver failure rather than cirrhosis is associated with mortality in patients with infectious endocarditis: a retrospective case–control study
Authors: Allaire Manon , Cadranel Jean-François D. , Bureau Christophe , Zerkly Salah , Thévenot Thierry , Garioud Armand , Cacoub Patrice , Macaigne Gilles , Alric Laurent , Jouannaud Vincent , Lison Hortensia , Chagneau-Derrode Carine , Pariente Alexandre , Pélaquier Agnès , Bourlière Marc , Causse Xavier , Nousbaum Jean-Baptiste , Dumortier Jérôme , Louvet Alexandre , Rosa-Hézode Isabelle , Ganne-Carrié Nathalie , Chentouh Ryme , Sfaxi Anis , Gournay Jérome , Blasco-Perrin Hélène , Antonini Teresa , Spahr Laurent , Bronowicki Jean-Pierre , Silvain Christine , Di Martino Vincent , Grange Jean-Didier , Denis Jacques , Dupont Karine , Iaria Pierre , Ollivier-Hourmand Isabelle , Dao Thong
Published: February 2021

Background

Data on infectious endocarditis (IE) in patients with liver cirrhosis (LC) are sparse. We aimed to describe the characteristics and predictors of mortality from IE in patients with LC.

Patients and methods

Overall, 101 patients with LC and 101 controls with IE matched for sex, age, date of IE, and diabetes were retrospectively selected in 23 liver units between 2000 and 2013.

Results

Mean age was 60.8±10.5 and 60.6±11.5 years in LC and controls, respectively. Causes of cirrhosis (Child–Pugh A/B/C: 10.4%/41.7%/47.9%, MELD score: 17±7.8) were excess alcohol intake (79.6%), viral hepatitis (17.3%), and metabolic syndrome (14.3%). Previous history of cardiopathy was found in 24.8% of LC (prosthetic valve 8.9%) and 37.6% of controls (P=0.07). The most frequent bacteria involved were gram-positive cocci. LC had significantly fewer aminoglycosides (P=0.0007), rifamycin (P=0.03), and valve surgery (P=0.02) than controls. The proportion of patients who died following cardiac surgery was similar between the two groups (9.7% for LC vs. 8.7% for controls, P=1). In-hospital mortality for Child–Pugh C patients was significantly higher than controls (61.4 vs. 23%, P<0.001), but not for Child–Pugh A (33.3%) or B patients (25.0%). A Child–Pugh score of above C10 was the best predictor of in-hospital mortality. In LC, Child–Pugh score (odds ratio=1.5; 95% confidence interval: 1.2–2.0; P=0.002) and history of decompensation (odds ratio=3.1; 95% confidence interval: 1.1–9.0; P=0.003) were independent predictive factors for in-hospital mortality.

Conclusion

Severe liver failure but not cirrhosis is the strongest predictive factor of mortality related to IE in LC. Use of aminosides and rifamycin should be reassessed in LC, and cardiac surgery should be considered for selected patients.
Machine Learning with Objective Serum Markers and Algorithmic Deep Learning CT Scan Analysis Predicts Brain Death Due to Trauma and Hypoxia
Authors: Rafter Daniel , Sterk Brett , Li Zhuliu , Schaaf Tory , Kuang Rui , Koller Michael , Samadani Uzma
Published: February 2021

Background

Prediction of which traumatic and hypoxic brain injuries will progress to brain death is currently based predominantly on history, physical examination and radiographic findings. We investigated how accurately purely objective measures including three neurologic serum markers and algorithmic CT (computed tomograph) scan analysis can predict brain death and differentiate its etiology.

Methods

This prospective observational study enrolled 51 isolated trauma subjects and 19 clinically brain dead subjects that were further divided by mechanism of injury into high-velocity trauma with presumed diffuse axonal injury, cardiopulmonary/respiratory arrest, and found down groups. Levels of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCH-L1), and S100 Calcium-Binding Protein B (S100B) were compared, and algorithmic analysis of CT scan imaging was performed using an open-source deep learning software (BLAST-CT).

Findings

The prognostic value of various biomarker combinations in identifying subjects progressing to brain death was assessed using machine learning. Prediction accuracy for GFAP, UCH-L1, and S100B and algorithmic CT analysis in combination to predict brain death from among all other cohorts yielded an area under the receiver operator curve of 0.98 versus all other brain injury subjects. This model was also able to distinguish brain death attributed to cardiopulmonary/respiratory arrest from combined non-trauma controls and diffuse axonal injury with an area under the curve of 0.99.

Interpretation

Serum concentrations of GFAP, UCH-L1, and S100B measured within 32 hours of traumatic and hypoxic brain injury (cardiopulmonary/respiratory arrest) and algorithmic CT analysis have utility in prognosticating brain death and predicting its mechanism of injury as either hypoxic or traumatic/unknown (diffuse axonal injury/found down).

Funding

Abbott Labs and the Minnesota State Office of Higher Education.
Experimental quantification of soft tissue deformation in quasi-static single leg flexion using biplanar imaging
Authors: Lahkar Bhrigu K. , Rohan Pierre-Yves , Yaacoub Jean-Jacques , Pillet Helene , Bonnet Xavier , Thoreux Patricia , Skalli Wafa
Published: February 2021

Soft tissue deformation(STD) causes the most prominent source of error in skin marker (SM) based motion analysis, commonly referred to as Soft Tissue Artifact (STA). To compensate for its effect and to accurately assess in vivo joint kinematics, quantification of STD in three-dimension (3D) is essential. In the literature, different invasive and radiological approaches have been employed to study how STA propagates in joint kinematics. However, there is limited reference data extensively reporting distribution of the artifact itself in 3D.

The current study was thus aimed at quantifying STD in 10 subjects along three anatomical directions. Biplanar X-ray system was used to determine true bone and SM positions while the subjects underwent quasi-static single leg flexion.

STD exhibited inter-subject similarity. A non-uniform distribution was observed at the pelvis, thigh and shank displaying maximum at the thigh (up to 18.5 mm) and minimum at the shank (up to 8 mm). STD at the pelvis and thigh displayed inter-marker similarity. STD at the pelvis was found direction independent, showing similar distribution in all the 3 directions. However, the thigh and shank exhibited higher STD in the proximal-distal direction of the bone embedded anatomical reference frame. These findings may provide more insights while interpreting motion analysis data as well to effectively strategize STA compensation methods.
Small-quantity lipid-based nutrient supplements for prevention of child malnutrition and promotion of healthy development: Overview of individual participant data meta-analysis and programmatic implications
Authors: Dewey Kathryn G. , Stewart Christine P. , Wessells K. Ryan , Prado Elizabeth L. , Arnold Charles D.
Published: February 2021

Small-quantity lipid-based nutrient supplements (SQ-LNS) were designed to provide multiple micronutrients within a food base that also provides energy, protein and essential fatty acids, and were targeted towards the prevention of malnutrition in low- and middle-income countries. Previous meta-analyses have demonstrated beneficial effects of SQ-LNS on child growth, anemia and mortality. To further examine efficacy and effectiveness of SQ-LNS, and explore study-level and individual-level modifiers of the effects, we conducted an individual participant data (IPD) meta-analysis of 14 randomized controlled trials of SQ-LNS provided to infants and young children 6 to 24 mo of age (n > 37,000). We examined growth, development, anemia and micronutrient status outcomes. Children who received SQ-LNS had a 12-14% lower prevalence of stunting, wasting and underweight, were 16-19% less likely to score in the lowest decile for language, social-emotional, and motor development, and had a 16% lower prevalence of anemia and 64% lower prevalence of iron-deficiency anemia, compared to control group children. For most outcomes, beneficial effects of SQ-LNS were evident regardless of study-level characteristics including region, stunting burden, malaria prevalence, sanitation, water quality, duration of supplementation, frequency of contact or average reported compliance with SQ-LNS. For certain outcomes, targeting based on population-level socioeconomic status or undernutrition may be worthwhile, as the benefits of SQ-LNS for iron status, anemia and child development were larger in sub-groups with a greater potential to benefit. A greater impact of SQ-LNS might be possible by co-packaging it with interventions that reduce constraints on response, such as prevention and control of pre-and postnatal infections, improving maternal nutrition, improving health care access, and promotion of early child development. Policy-makers and program planners should consider including SQ-LNS in strategies to reduce child mortality, stunting, wasting, anemia, iron deficiency and developmental impairments. This study was registered at www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO as CRD42019146592, CRD42020159971 and CRD42020156663.
Epidemiology of COVID-19 infection amongst workers in Primary Healthcare in Qatar
Authors: Al-Kuwari Mohamed Ghaith , AbdelMalik Mariam , Al-Nuaimi Asma Ali , Abdulmajeed Jazeel , Al-Romaihi Hamad Eid , Semaan Sandy
Published: February 2021

Background

COVID-19 transmission was significant amongst Healthcare workers worldwide.

Aim

This study aims to estimate the risk of exposure for COVID-19 across Primary Healthcare workers in the State of Qatar. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted to study the burden of COVID-19 among staff working at PHCC during the COVID-19 pandemic from March 1 to October 31, 2020.

Results

1,048 (87.4%)of the infected HCWs belonged to the age group below 45 years, and 488 (40.7%) HCWs were females. 450 (37.5%) were HCWs clinical staff working in one of the 27 PHCC HCs; Despite the increased patient footfall and risk environment, the COVID HCs had an attack rate of 10.1%, which is not significantly different from the average attack rate of 8.9% among staff located in other HCs (p-value =0.26). Storekeepers, engineering & maintenance staff, housekeeping staff, support staff, and security staff (outsourced positions) had the highest positivity rates, 100%, 67.2%, 47.1%, 32.4%, and 29.5% respective positivity rates.

Conclusions

The elevated risk of infection amongst outsourced healthcare workers can be explained by environmental factors such as living conditions. On the other hand, better containment within clinical healthcare workers can be attributed to strict safety training and compliance with preventative measures which is recommended to be implemented across all settings.
Talaromyces marneffeipromotes M2 polarization of human macrophages by downregulating SOCS3 expression and activating TLR9 pathway
Authors: Wei Wudi , Ning Chuanyi , Huang Jiegang , Wang Gang , Lai Jingzhen , Han Jing , Zang Ning , Liang Bingyu , Liao Yanyan , Le Thuy , Jiang Junjun , Ye Li , Liang Hao
Published: February 2021

Little is known about howTalaromyces marneffei, a thermally dimorphic fungus that causes substantial morbidity and mortality in Southeast Asia, evades the human immune system. Polarization of macrophages into fungal-inhibiting M1 and fungal-promoting M2 types has been shown to play an important role in the innate immune response against fungal pathogens. This mechanism has not been defined forT. marneffei. Here, we demonstrated thatT. marneffeipromotes its survival in human macrophages by inducing them towards M2 polarization. Our investigations of the mechanism revealed thatT. marneffeiinfection led to SOCS3 protein degradation by inducing tyrosine phosphorylation, thereby relieving the inhibitory effect of SOCS3 on p-STAT6, a key factor for M2 polarization. Our SOCS3-overexpression experiments showed that SOCS3 is a positive regulator of M1 polarization and plays an important role in limiting M2 polarization. Furthermore, we found that inhibition of TLR9 pathway partially blockedT. marneffei-induced M2 polarization and significantly enhanced the killing activity of macrophages againstT. marneffei. Collectively, these results reveal a novel mechanism by whichT. marneffeievades the immune response of human macrophages.
Rats show a preference for certain unfamiliar strains of rats
Authors: Kogo Hiroki , Kiyokawa Yasushi , Takeuchi Yukari
Published: February 2021

Humans show distinct social behaviours when we recognise social similarity in opponents that are members of the same social group. However, little attention has been paid to the role of social similarity in non-human animals. In Wistar subject rats, the presence of an unfamiliar Wistar rat mitigated stress responses, suggesting the importance of social similarity in this phenomenon. We found that the presence of unfamiliar Sprague-Dawley (SD) or Long-Evans (LE) rats, but not an unfamiliar Fischer 344 (F344) rat, similarly mitigated stress in subject rats. It is therefore possible that the subject rats recognised social similarity to unfamiliar SD and LE rats. In this study, we demonstrated that Wistar subject rats were capable of categorizing unfamiliar rats based on their strain, and that Wistar subjects showed a preference for unfamiliar Wistar, SD, and LE rats over F344 rats. However, the subject rats did not show a preference among Wistar, SD, and LE rats. In addition, the results were not due to an aversion to F344 rats, and preference was not affected when anaesthetised rats were presented to subject rats. The findings suggested that rats recognise social similarity to certain unfamiliar strains of rats.
Automatic segmentation for synchrotron-based imaging of porous bread dough using deep learning approach
Authors: Ali Salah , Mayo Sherry , Gostar Amirali K. , Tennakoon Ruwan , Bab-Hadiashar Alireza , MCann Thu , Tuhumury Helen , Favaro Jenny
Published: February 2021

In recent years, major capability improvements at synchrotron beamlines have given researchers the ability to capture more complex structures at a higher resolution within a very short time. This opens up the possibility of studying dynamic processes and observing resulting structural changes over time. However, such studies can create a huge quantity of 3D image data, which presents a major challenge for segmentation and analysis. Here tomography experiments at the Australian synchrotron source are examined, which were used to study bread dough formulations during rising and baking, resulting in over 460 individual 3D datasets. The current pipeline for segmentation and analysis involves semi-automated methods using commercial software that require a large amount of user input. This paper focuses on exploring machine learning methods to automate this process. The main challenge to be faced is in generating adequate training datasets to train the machine learning model. Creating training data by manually segmenting real images is very labour-intensive, so instead methods of automatically creating synthetic training datasets which have the same attributes of the original images have been tested. The generated synthetic images are used to train a U-Net model, which is then used to segment the original bread dough images. The trained U-Net outperformed the previously used segmentation techniques while taking less manual effort. This automated model for data segmentation would alleviate the time-consuming aspects of experimental workflow and would open the door to perform 4D characterization experiments with smaller time steps.
A bibliometric analysis of entrepreneurial orientation
Authors: Pei Jiayin , Shi Yeyun , Shan Peng
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the studies that have had the greatest impact on entrepreneurial orientation (EO) research and to analyze the changes that have taken place in the intellectual structure of this key topic in the entrepreneurship field.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper adopts the methods of citation analysis, co-citation analysis, social network analysis and factor analysis to analyze 2,005 studies on the theme of EO in the 12 years from 2008 to 2019.

Findings

The research identified the representative literature and journals in the field of EO, presented the development process and knowledge cluster by stages in the form of intuitive network mapping and summarized the main research fields and the evolutionary trend of EO during the period 2008–2019.

Research limitations/implications

This study provides a more comprehensive and objective knowledge structure evolution context for EO researchers, which is conducive to the mature development of the entrepreneurship-oriented field.

Practical implications

It is helpful for enterprise managers to have a deeper understanding of the connotations of EO and to make more scientific entrepreneurial decisions, so as to improve their ability in enterprise innovation and entrepreneurship.

Originality/value

This study visualizes the evolution process of EO knowledge structure, fills the gaps of recent knowledge structure analysis literature in this field and provides theoretical support for the findings of other studies.
Simulation evaluation of small samples based on grey estimation and improved bootstrap
Authors: Yang Wenguang , Lin Lianhai , Gao Hongkui
Published: February 2021

Purpose

To solve the problem of simulation evaluation with small samples, a fresh approach of grey estimation is presented based on classical statistical theory and grey system theory. The purpose of this paper is to make full use of the difference of data distribution and avoid the marginal data being ignored.

Design/methodology/approach

Based upon the grey distribution characteristics of small sample data, the definition about a new concept of grey relational similarity measure comes into being. At the same time, the concept of sample weight is proposed according to the grey relational similarity measure. Based on the new definition of grey weight, the grey point estimation and grey confidence interval are studied. Then the improved Bootstrap resampling is designed by uniform distribution and randomness as an important supplement of the grey estimation. In addition, the accuracy of grey bilateral and unilateral confidence intervals is introduced by using the new grey relational similarity measure approach.

Findings

The new small sample evaluation method can realize the effective expansion and enrichment of data and avoid the excessive concentration of data. This method is an organic fusion of grey estimation and improved Bootstrap method. Several examples are used to demonstrate the feasibility and validity of the proposed methods to illustrate the credibility of some simulation data, which has no need to know the probability distribution of small samples.

Originality/value

This research has completed the combination of grey estimation and improved Bootstrap, which makes more reasonable use of the value of different data than the unimproved method.
Talent management and organizational sustainability: role of sustainable behaviour
Authors: Mujtaba Muhammad , Mubarik Muhammad Shujaat
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This study aims to examine the role of talent management (TM) in improving organizational sustainability (OS). The study also investigates employees’ sustainable behaviour (SB) in achieving three-dimensional sustainability goals (i.e. economic, social and environmental).

Design/methodology/approach

This study focused on medium and large-scale manufacturing firms, whereas the sample size was 196 firms. Data was collected through close-ended questionnaires using the cluster sampling technique. The partial least square-structural equation modelling was used to estimate the modelled relationships.

Findings

Results show a significant direct impact of TM on OS. Likewise, the results also show a substantial impact of all three dimensions of TM (acquisition, development and retention) on OS. Results confirm that employees’ SB positively mediates between TM and OS.

Research limitations/implications

The study focuses on the manufacturing sector of Pakistan. The study’s findings imply that TM strategies are an indispensable source of sustainability to attract, develop and retain talented employees in the situation of talent shortage. Moreover, sustainable employees’ behaviour is also depicted as a positive role between TM and OS because sustainable success is not only required the expertize of employees, but it also needs the dedication of employees.

Practical implications

This study enhances the understanding of TM’s role in improving the OS. The findings imply that a firm should consider TM as the apex strategy for elevating the performance. Findings also reveal the need to adopt a comprehensive strategy or system to manage the talent of an organization.

Originality/value

Linking the TM with OS and SB is the novelty of the study.
Adaptive calendar effects and volume of extra returns in the cryptocurrency market
Authors: Khuntia Sashikanta , Pattanayak J.K.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This study broadly attempts to explore adaptive or dynamics patterns of calendar effects existed in the cryptocurrency market as per the adaptive market hypothesis (AMH) framework. Another agendum of this study is to investigate the quantum of extra returns which may result from the presence of calendar effects.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study considers both parametric and non-parametric approaches to verify calendar effects empirically. Specifically, this study has implemented Generalised Autoregressive Conditional Heteroscedasticity (1, 1) and Kruskal–Wallis tests in the rolling window approach to reveal adaptive patterns of calendar effects. Additionally, the present study has used the implied trading strategy to evaluate the volume of excess returns resulted from calendar effects than buy-and-hold (BH) strategy.

Findings

The overall results of the current study exhibit that calendar effect in the cryptocurrency market is dynamic rather than static which indicates the calendar effect is a time-varying phenomenon. Moreover, this study also confirmed that ITS is not suitable to obtain extra returns despite the existence of calendar effects.

Research limitations/implications

The present study has covered some broad aspects of calendar anomalies in the cryptocurrency market, keeping aside certain other limitations which need to be addressed in the following dimensions. Future studies may aim at addressing issues like, Turn-of-the-Year effect, Halloween effect, weather effect, and Month-of-the-Year effects, and try to explore the reasons of presence of dynamic patterns of calendar effects.

Practical implications

The significant implication of this study is that it alerts investors about market return predictability due to calendar patterns or effects in different periods. It also suggests the period in which the ITS can perform better than the BH strategy.

Originality/value

It is the first study in the cryptocurrency literature which has adopted the AMH framework to verify adaptive calendar effects or anomalies. Furthermore, this study, instead of a mere examination of the presence of calendar effects, has evaluated the potential of calendar effects to produce extra returns through trading strategies.
Do connected town-centre shopping journeys improve town-centre patronage?
Authors: AbedRabbo Majd , Hart Cathy , Ellis–Chadwick Fiona
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the role played by digital channel integration in the town-centre shopping experience. It also explores how customers perceive the role of digital in the town-centres shopping journeys, improves shopping experiences and encourages positive future patronage behaviour. Ultimately, the aim is to identify the likely implications of a connected shopping experience on patronage intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative research design using focus groups to explore customers' perceptions of connected town-centre shopping experiences was deployed. Then, data were analysed using thematic analysis to identify overarching themes.

Findings

Digital integration has the potential to serve discreetly different functions in the town-centre context: create interconnected information channels, facilitate improved connected shopping experiences, generate positive perceptions of a town, which subsequently shape future patronage intentions. The study also revealed expectations of digital integration are yet to be fully realised in the town-centre context and there are tensions between physical and digital domains to be overcome if digital integration is to positively influence patronage intentions.

Research limitations/implications

The nature of exploratory research tends to pose questions and open out a problem rather than provide definitive answers. This study has sought to highlight key issues and also provide points of departure for future studies. The significance and generalisability of the results are limited by the size and nature of the sample.

Originality/value

This study provides theoretical contribution to the town-centre literature by expanding the understanding of consumers' perceptions of the role of digital integration in shopping journey experiences and unlocks insights into its potential impact on future patronage intentions. Practical considerations for integrating digital in the town centre to create more connected shopping experiences.
Integrating vehicle tracking and routing systems in retail distribution management
Authors: Salhieh Loay , Shehadeh Mohammad , Abushaikha Ismail , Towers Neil
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the benefits of integrating IT tracking and routing systems into last-mile distribution operations. The paper also demonstrates the role of field experiments as a valid approach for improving the rigour of logistics research.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs a field experiment approach. Data were collected before and after the experimental treatment from 16 participating vehicles, which were used as inputs and outputs to calculate vehicles' efficiencies using data envelopment analysis.

Findings

Through employing manipulation and random assignment to investigate causality in naturally occurring contexts, the study results show statistical evidence for the role of vehicle tracking and routing systems in enhancing fleet efficiency. Furthermore, results show that field experiment is an appropriate method for capital budgeting of deploying IT systems in the distribution function.

Practical implications

Distribution managers can use a field experiment setup to assess the potential impact of installing IT solutions prior to large-scale implementation or prior to purchasing.

Originality/value

The study fills a gap in the literature through the application of a field experiment approach to establish causality relationships in distribution and logistics research. This study should encourage new research on the role of field experimentation in evaluating the benefits gained from, and the capital budgeting of, the modern disruptive technologies in supply chains.
Sociodemographic determinants of health care expenditure: micro level evidence of a fast-growing developing country
Authors: Cheah Yong Kang , Goh Kim-Leng , Abdul Adzis Azira
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The objective of this study is to examine the sociodemographic factors that are associated with health care expenditure among households in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

This study examines health care participation decision and amount of expenditure using the exponential Type 2 Tobit model. A dataset of a large sample (n = 14,838) that is nationally representative is used.

Findings

The results suggest that household size, location of residence as well as age, education and marital status of the household heads are significantly associated with household expenditure on health care. Health care expenditure increases with the age and educational attainment of household heads, whereas those who are being employed and residing in rural areas have lower health care expenditure. Although larger households are more likely to consume health care than smaller households, they spend less on health care. Furthermore, marital status does not affect the participation decision of health care expenditure, but the variable is associated with the decision on the amount of the expenditure.

Practical implications

The results provide insights into groups of population that can be targeted for healthcare intervention programmes and policy design.

Originality/value

This study is the first to our knowledge to use a microeconometric approach to analyse the health care participation as well as its level of expenditure among households in Malaysia.
Thedashangfeature in social media: a personality and justice theory perspective
Authors: Wan Jinlin , Lu Yaobin , Gupta Sumeet
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Dashang refers to a reward given voluntarily to street performers in return for their performance. Some social media platforms have created a way to integrate this as a function, referred to as the dashang feature, to allow users to reward live performers online as well. Over the last few years, this function has become extremely popular among social media users, as it recreates the nostalgic experience of watching street performances. Platforms now consider it indispensable, as it has become a source of substantial revenue (commission on rewards earned by performers). However, not all users reward performers. For each user who pays, there are many more who lurk on the platform. This study examines the reasons for these differences using the Big Five personality perspective and justice theory.

Design/methodology/approach

We develop an empirical model using the Big Five theory and justice theory and test it using empirical data collected through a survey of WeChat users.

Findings

The results indicate that distributive justice, interpersonal justice and informational justice are essential factors in relation to social media users' use of the dashang feature. It is also found that personality type affects these three factors.

Originality/value

This study makes three key contributions. First, it examines the factors that influence users' voluntary use of the dashang feature using the lenses of the Big Five theory and justice theory. Second, this study extends previous results on perceived justice to examine use of the dashang feature in social media. Third, this study applies these theories to the study of consumer behavior by exploring the role of user characteristics in social media use.
Grammar and social action: two schools of thought in knowledge organization research
Authors: Andersen Jack
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose is to map and discuss two schools of thought in knowledge organization research. The objective of this mapping is to examine the conceptual views and the derived questions and concerns voiced in these two schools and whether they fit with concerns in contemporary digital culture.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach is a comparative analysis and discussion.

Findings

The comparative analysis and discussion point out the different sets of questions the two schools are concerned with distinct epistemological and ontological implications.

Originality/value

The originality of this article is the naming, mapping and discussion of two schools of research in knowledge with a view to how they fit with problems of ordering, archiving and searching in digital culture.