bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computational analysis of convective heat transfer properties of turbulent slot jet impingement
Authors: Shukla Anuj Kumar , Dewan Anupam
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Convective heat transfer features of a turbulent slot jet impingement are comprehensively studied using two different computational approaches, namely, URANS (unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes equations) and SAS (scale-adaptive simulation). Turbulent slot jet impingement heat transfer is used where a considerable heat transfer enhancement is required, and computationally, it is a quite challenging flow configuration.

Design/methodology/approach

Customized OpenFOAM 4.1, an open-access computational fluid dynamics (CFD) code, is used for SAS (SST-SAS k-ω) and URANS (standard k-ε and SST k-ω) computations. A low-Re version of the standard k-ε model is used, and other models are formulated for good wall-refined calculations. Three turbulence models are formulated in OpenFOAM 4.1 with second-order accurate discretization schemes.

Findings

It is observed that the profiles of the streamwise turbulence are under-predicted at all the streamwise locations by SST k-ω and SST SAS k-ω models, but follow similar trends as in the reported results. The standard k-ε model shows improvements in the predictions of the streamwise turbulence and mean streamwise velocity profiles in the zone of outer wall jet. Computed profiles of Nusselt number by SST k-ω and SST-SAS k-ω models are nearly identical and match well with the reported experimental results. However, the standard k-ε model does not provide a reasonable profile or quantification of the local Nusselt number.

Originality/value

Hybrid turbulence model is suitable for efficient CFD computations for the complex flow problems. This paper deals with a detailed comparison of the SAS model with URANS and LES for the first time in the literature. A thorough assessment of the computations is performed against the results reported using experimental and large eddy simulations techniques followed by a detailed discussion on flow physics. The present results are beneficial for scientists working with hybrid turbulence models and in industries working with high-efficiency cooling/heating system computations.
Towards an educational modernization process: UNESCO interactions with Franco's Spain (1952–1970)
Authors: González-Delgado Mariano , Ferraz-Lorenzo Manuel , Machado-Trujillo Cristian
Published: June 2021

Purpose

After World War II, an educational modernization process gained ground worldwide. International organizations such as UNESCO began to play a key role in the creation, development and dissemination of a new educational vision in different countries. This article examines the origin and development of this modernization process under the dictatorship of Franco. More specifically, we will show how the adoption of this conception in Spain must be understood from the perspective of the interaction between UNESCO and Franco's regime, and how the policies of the dictatorship converged with the proposals suggested by this international organization. Our principal argument is that the educational policies carried out in Spain throughout the second half of the 20th century can be better understood when inserted into a transnational perspective in education.

Design/methodology/approach

This article uses documents from archives that until now were unpublished or scarcely known. We have also analyzed materials published in the preeminent educational journals of the dictatorship, such as the Revista de Educación, Revista Española de Pedagogía, Bordón and Vida escolar, as well as documents published by the Spanish Ministry of National Education.

Findings

Franco's dictatorship built an educational narrative closely aligned with proposals put forward by UNESCO on educational planning after World War II. The educational policies created by the dictatorship were related to the new ideas that strove to link the educational system with economic and social development.

Originality/value

This article is inspired by a transnational history of education perspective. On the one hand, it traces the origins of educational modernization under Franco's regime, which represented a technocratic vision of education that is best understood as a result of the impact that international organizations had in the second half of the 20th century. On the other hand, it follows the intensifying relationship between the dictatorship and the educational ideas launched by UNESCO. Both aspects are little known and studied in Spain.
Numerical and experimental analysis of parallel-pass forced convection solar air heating wall with different plenum and absorber configurations
Authors: Khanlari Ataollah , Sözen Adnan , Afshari Faraz , Tuncer Azim Doğuş , Ağbulut Ümit , Aytaç Yılmaz Zeynep
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Over the recent years, solar energy has received outstanding attention from researchers. Solar energy applications and related large-scale projects are increasing to meet growing global energy demand as an economical, non-polluting and renewable energy source. The purpose of this study is investigating different plenum and absorber configurations of solar air heating wall (SAHW) experimentally and numerically.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, various configurations of SAHW have been numerically simulated to determine the most effective design. According to the simulation results, two SAHWs with various plenum thicknesses have been fabricated and tested at different conditions.

Findings

Numerical simulation results indicated that parallel-flow SAHWs exhibited better performance in comparison with other placements of absorber plate. Regarding to the experimentally attained results, the highest thermal efficiency was reached to 80.51%. Also, the average deviation between experimentally and numerically obtained outlet temperature is 5.5%.

Originality/value

Considering the obtained results in the present study, designed SAHW has admissible efficiency to be used in various industrial and residential applications such as; air preheating, space heating and drying.
Sales and operations planning for new products: a parallel process?
Authors: Bagni Gustavo , Sagawa Juliana Keiko , Godinho Filho Moacir
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to detail how a Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) process can be designed to support the planning requirements of recently introduced products.

Design/methodology/approach

Design science research was conducted to propose and implement an S&OP model for demand fulfillment after the introduction of new products. The results were analyzed using the CIMO (Context, Intervention, Mechanisms and Outcomes) logic, and two sets of design propositions were formulated.

Findings

An S&OP process for new products can reduce additional costs for market fulfillment by concentrating the planning efforts on new products, aligning organizational efforts, and increasing the sales and supply chain information’s update frequency.

Research limitations/implications

The outcomes of S&OP new products were analyzed in a single organization and are limited to the contextual factors presented.

Practical implications

This paper describes in detail how to organize an S&OP focused on new products. By considering the contextual factors and design propositions, managers can potentially increase the success of new products introduction (NPI) in their context.

Originality/value

A specific S&OP process focused on new products is a viable solution and could co-exist with a traditional S&OP process. Moreover, we identified six contextual factors that influence the outcomes of the S&OP new products.
How to advance theory through literature reviews in logistics and supply chain management
Authors: Durach Christian F. , Kembro Joakim Hans , Wieland Andreas
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The discipline's most common uses for literature reviews—identifying gaps, developing research agendas, and categorizing the literature—too often fail to challenge, change or advance theoretical perspectives. The authors offer guidance to theorization through literature reviews. The key to theory advancement is consistency between the state of theory and the chosen review type.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual approach is taken. The authors identify shortcomings in literature reviews of logistics and supply chain management (L&SCM) research and develop a framework to aid theorization from literature.

Findings

Literature review types are categorized as inductive theory building, contextualized explanations, theory testing and interpretive sensemaking. The authors argue that the effectiveness of a review type depends on the prior state of theory, which ranges from nascent, to intermediate, to mature. The authors propose the interpretive sensemaking review as a novel review type rooted in the interpretive paradigm.

Practical implications

This study should be of immediate interest and value to logistics and supply chain management scholars—as well as scholars in other fields—because it offers a pathway to theory development through literature reviews. Appropriate applications of the proposed review types will result in more comprehensive theories.

Originality/value

This article lays down arguments for the need to change the way L&SCM scholars use literature reviews. It extends earlier work from the authors (Durachet al., 2017; A New Paradigm for Systematic Literature Reviews in Supply Chain Management, Journal of Supply Chain Management) by outlining four review types, and offering further insights to theorization, as is typically the goal in the synthesis step of literature reviews.
Existence of asymmetry between wages and automatable jobs: a quantile regression approach
Authors: Baigh Tarannum Azim , Yong Chen Chen , Cheong Kee Cheok
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This study aims to explore, in the context of Machinery and Equipment sector of Malaysia, the association between average wages and share of employment in automatable jobs, specifically whether the association between average wages and share of employment automatable jobs is asymmetric in nature.

Design/methodology/approach

The responses obtained from the structured interview of 265 firms are used to build up the empirical models (conditional mean regression and quantile regression).

Findings

The conditional mean regression findings show that employment levels in some low-waged, middle-skilled jobs are negatively associated with average wages. Furthermore, the quantile regression results add that firms that possess higher levels of share of employment in automation jobs are found to have a stronger association to average wages than those possessing a lower share of employment in automation jobs.

Practical implications

From the theoretical perspective, the findings of this study add to the body of knowledge of the theory of minimum wages and the concept of job polarization. From a policy perspective, the findings of this study can serve as a critical input to standard setters and regulators in devising industrial and as education policies.

Originality/value

Based on the assumption of a constant average policy effect on automatable jobs, conditional mean regression models have been commonly used in prior studies. This study makes the first attempt to employ the quantile regression method to provide a deeper understanding of the relationship between wages and employment in automatable jobs.
Predicting sustainable consumption of package-free bath products among students in higher education institutions
Authors: Valentin Alvin Patrick M.
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This study aims to examine the applicability of an extended version of the theory of planned behavior (TPB) in predicting pro-environmental behavior, specifically the purchase behavior (PB) of package-free bath products, among students in higher education institutions (HEIs).

Design/methodology/approach

Using a non-experimental survey research design, this study empirically tested an extended TPB model through structural equation modeling. The dataset was obtained through a survey of undergraduate students in three HEIs in the Philippines.

Findings

Environmental knowledge (EK) predicted attitudes toward purchasing package-free bath products. Attitudes, subjective norms and pro-environmental self-identity (PSI) predicted intention to purchase package-free bath products. Furthermore, the intention to purchase package-free bath products and perceived behavioral control predicted PB of the said item.

Research limitations/implications

The results imply that the addition of EK and PSI to the TPB is applicable in predicting pro-environmental behavior, specifically the purchase of package-free bath products.

Practical implications

The results showed how HEIs can encourage their students to purchase package-free bath products.

Social implications

The results highlight how social and economic factors play a role in promoting or inhibiting pro-environmental behavior among HEI students.

Originality/value

The findings support the inclusion of EK and PSI to the TPB for an integrative model that aims to improve the prediction of the purchase of package-free bath products.
Developing leadership qualities in environmental sustainability through university co-curricular activities
Authors: Ordaz Karla , Tan Kelvin , Skett  Sarah , Herremans Irene Marie
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This study aims to provide insight into the question of whether graduate students who deliver environmental education workshops/residencies to elementary school children will develop environmental sustainability leadership qualities in themselves: a goal set in the University of Calgary’s Institutional Sustainability Strategy.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey research was undertaken in a case study setting. The researchers collected and analyzed data related to environmental leadership qualities, using the theory of planned behavior and an adaptation of the competing values framework. Graduate students participating in the co-curricular program responded to questions about the effect that the activity had on their knowledge, awareness and leadership characteristics.

Findings

Graduate students demonstrated considerable leadership potential in environmental sustainability. The survey results showed that their participation in a community educational program impacted their attitudes and awareness favorably in developing stronger competencies for leadership. In addition, they gained real-world knowledge about environmentally sustainable practices and skills to influence pro-environmental behavior changes in the community.

Originality/value

Through a partnership between a non-profit organization and the university, graduate students in an interdisciplinary sustainable energy development program used their formal education and previous work experience to adapt and deliver engaging and educational environmental content to younger children. This informal co-curricular activity brought together local educational institutions, educational content providers, graduate students, and elementary school children in an effective experiential learning platform to develop leadership characteristics both in the graduate students and elementary school children.
Follower psychological need satisfaction as a mediator between leader and follower use of emotions and follower job performance
Authors: Widianto Sunu , Wilderom Celeste P.M.
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to test whether follower psychological need satisfaction, a key variable in the self-determination theory (SDT), mediates between both follower and leader use of emotions and follower job performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors surveyed health-care professionals who were employed by various organizations, and at the same time, were enrolled in a bachelor and part-time MSc program at an Indonesian university (N = 220). Structural equation modeling was used to test the two hypothesized mediation effects.

Findings

The results show that to get high follower job performance, both leaders and followers must be proficient in using their own emotions in constructive ways. Both significant associations were mediated by follower psychological need satisfaction. In addition, follower use of emotions was also directly related to follower job performance, indicating partial mediation.

Originality/value

By examining the emotional intelligence dimension “use of emotions” by both followers and their leaders, and by pointing to the importance of the constructive use of their emotions at work, the authors extend the SDT. Two probable affective mechanisms, which precede the job performance effects of satisfying followers’ psychological needs, were identified from the results.
“Covid-working”: what to keep and what to leave? Evidence from an Italian company
Authors: Tagliaro Chiara , Migliore Alessandra
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the extent to which Covid-19 has challenged work habits and outcomes. The authors argue that after the lockdown period workers have been experiencing a new work mode called “Covid-working”. The aim is to provide a first interpretation of this phaenomenon and elaborate on future real estate strategies and workplace policies based on this experience.

Design/methodology/approach

Using survey data, this research analyses Covid-working in a large-sized company in Italy. The survey was answered by 90 employees and addresses three domains: locations of work; a comparison between work-from-home (WFH) and work from the office; and outcomes of Covid-working vs office-working.

Findings

With Covid-working, the workers of the case company drastically changed their traditional work from the office approach to pure WFH. While this abrupt switch might generate difficulties in adaptation, this working practice was generally appreciated by this company’s workers. Positive and negative outcomes of Covid-working confirm previous studies on remote working. Recommendations on multi-location of work, new value for the headquarters and diversity empowerment open up avenues for future real estate strategies.

Originality/value

Observations on Covid-working are still limited and mainly appear on grey literature, due to the newness of this phaenomenon. Empirical studies such as the proposed one can increase companies’ awareness of the positive and negative outcomes of this experience and support their future workplace strategies.
Symmetric and asymmetric modeling of knowledge management enablers to knowledge management processes and knowledge worker productivity in higher education institutes
Authors: Sahibzada Umar Farooq , Latif Khawaja Fawad , Xu Yan
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This research examines how knowledge management (KM) enablers, i.e. trust, knowledge-oriented leadership, environmental uncertainty and KM processes will impact knowledge worker productivity (KWP). Various formations of the KM enablers and KM processes are also examined within terms of their abilities to enhance KWP.

Design/methodology/approach

The research sample is taken from 248 faculty and administrators of Pakistan Higher Educational Institutes (HEIs). The relationships are tested via SmartPLS and fsQCA 3.0.

Findings

The results show that there are significant impacts of the KM enablers on KM processes and KWP. Constructed upon fuzzy qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA), the outcomes exposed various combinations, which can be identified to enhance KWP.

Originality/value

The research supports to methodology by merging two methods to advance the understanding of institutional concerns about workers' productivity. The asymmetric method assists to distinguish the connections that might not be directly clear via traditional symmetric approaches. By uncovering asymmetric relationships, the study identifies a variety of approaches that can be used by HEIs to improve their KWP.
The requirements of developing programs for the management of non-communicable diseases in Iran based on the CIPP model: a qualitative study
Authors: Vali Leila , Ataollahi Fatemeh , Amiresmaili Mohammadreza , Nakhaee Nouzar , Okhovati Maryam
Published: June 2021

Purpose

One of the priorities of the health system is community health promotion. In this regards, proper development of programs and plans is needed to create a responsive system which leads to health promotion. The aim of this study was to identify the requirements for developing non-communicable disease (NCDs) programs based on CIPP (context, input, process and product) model.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a qualitative study. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 40 experienced informants in the field of NCDs. The interviewees were selected bases on pre-determined criteria which then were completed by snowball sampling. Analysis was carried out using a content analysis approach that led to identifying program development requirements in four dimensions of context, input, process and product.

Findings

Twenty-nine requirements of developing program were categorized in four domains of context, input, process and product. These requirements comprised of pilot studies, the existence of appropriate needs assessment, evidence-based programs, promoting organizational culture, adequacy of resources, identification of stakeholders and comprehensive cooperation and existence of an appropriate evaluation system.

Research limitations/implications

Since this study was performed through a qualitative method, it is possible, some prerequisites of program development may not be encountered. But the extreme effort has been made to perceive diversity and different aspects.

Originality/value

The first study was in the field of appropriate requirements for program development in the context of a centralized health system in a developing country.
Forensic intellectual disability services: differences in staff perspectives in the Danish and Norwegian systems
Authors: Nyhus Eskil , Holst Søren , Munch Charlotte , Søndenaa Erik
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Persons with intellectual disabilities (ID) who offend are treated differently depending on the national jurisdiction. Norway and Denmark are two such examples. The differences in care models may also have an impact on staff perspectives. This paper aims to study the differences between Norwegian and Danish staff members within secure forensic ID services.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional study involving Norwegian (n= 145) and Danish staff (n= 279) in secure forensic learning disabilities services was conducted. The response rates were 50% in Denmark (n= 147) and 69% in Norway (n= 98), respectively. An electronic survey covering five sets of topics (demographic characteristics, working conditions, workplace culture, work motivation and work resilience) was used. The findings was statistically analysed using SPSS.

Findings

This study confirmed that staff in the two neighbouring countries have common conceptions of their employment. Danish staff were more exposed to violent incidents (t= 4.1(237);p< 0.001). There was greater concern with workplace safety in Denmark (t= 5.2(237);p< 0.001) compared to more team-based and rigid working conditions in Norway (t= −2.6(237);p< 0.01).

Originality/value

These differences are discussed in relation to some important national differences in a professional culture, educational systems, service organisation and legal issues that possibly add realistic explanations to the findings.
The town of bent necks: interorganizational causes and consequences of relational rivalry
Authors: Sozen Cenk
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This study aims at developing a conceptual framework for the networking behaviour of firms having relational and non-relational competitive interactions. Initially the question of how negative ties change the meaning of competition for the rival firms was discussed and then how these types of interactions can change possible networking preferences of organizations were theoretically estimated.

Design/methodology/approach

This study suggests that relational rivalry is closely linked with negative ties and even the emergence of strong positive ties among firms is viewed as a consequence of dyadic negative interactions. Different types of competitive conditions were classified under non-relational and relational categories.

Findings

Not applicable.

Originality/value

A majority of the studies on interorganizational networks are mostly concerned with positive tie formation patterns and the consequences of these interactions. However, there is limited number of macro-level studies, which realized explanatory potential of the negative interfirm relations. Negative interorganizational relations may also make significant contributions to the discipline of economic sociology.
Society and the moral semantics of the COVID-19 pandemic: a social systems approach
Authors: Morales Francisco X.
Published: June 2021

Purpose

In a context of critical transition such as the COVID-19 pandemic, moral semantics take a prominent role as a form of self-description of society. However, they are not usually observed, but rather assumed as self-evident and necessarily “good.” The purpose of the article is to summarize the theory of morality from the social systems' perspective and illustrate with concrete examples the polemogenous nature of moral communication.

Design/methodology/approach

This article presents an analysis of the role of morality in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, from the perspective of Niklas Luhmann’s social systems theory. Applying the method of second-order observation, it describes three cases of moral semantics disseminated via mass media and social media, and it examines their connection with the structural situation of subsystems of society during the pandemic crisis (particularly healthcare, politics and science).

Findings

Second-order observation of moral communication demonstrates to be fruitful to describe the conditions and consequences in which moralization of communication occurs, particularly in a situation of critical transition around the healthcare crisis. The three examples examined, namely, the hero semantics directed to healthcare workers, the semantics of indiscipline and the controversies around pseudo-sciences and conspiracy theories, show how they are based on social attribution of esteem and disesteem, how they try to answer to troublesome situations and contradictions that seem difficult to cope, and how they are close related to the emergence of conflicts, even when they seem positive oriented and well intentioned.

Originality/value

This paper is an attempt to test the usefulness of Luhmann's theory of society to understand the ongoing COVID-19 crisis and particularly the role of moral communication in concrete examples.
Managing the COVID-19 pandemic: predictors of trust in institutions in Romania
Authors: Bârgăoanu Alina , Corbu Nicoleta , Buturoiu Raluca , Durach Flavia
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The paper discusses the predictors of trust in the institutions and people involved in crisis management at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in Romania. Trust in institutions might be a key factor in the way countries affected by the COVID-19 pandemic deal with the crisis as people might be more willing to accept the restrictions and rules imposed if they trust the key institutions and people involved in managing the pandemic. The paper provides recommendations for key stakeholders to increase trust in people and institutions in times of crisis.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors draw evidence from a national online panel survey (N = 1,160) to investigate the main predictors of trust in this context.

Findings

The main results indicate that trust in institutions is positively correlated with news consumption and personal discussions about the pandemic, perceived incidence of COVID-19 fake news, belief in conspiracy theories and uncertainty about the future of the country.

Originality/value

To the best of the knowledge, this study is one of the few papers investigating the predictors of trust in the institutions and people involved in managing the current pandemic in a country in the Central and Eastern European region.
Study on casting design and analysis of magnesium alloy wheel
Authors: Jiang Xin , Hu Xiaodong , Liu Hai , Ju Dongying , Fukushima Yoshio , Zhenglai
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This research establishes a suitable casting model for magnesium alloy wheel. The casting of the wheel is an element that must be considered in the design of the wheel. Casting is an important basic process and technology in the field of machinery which is widely used in production, transportation, national defense, social life and other aspects. Computer numerical simulation of the casting process can shorten the product manufacturing cycle, reduce product costs, reduce casting defects and ensure product quality. The casting material in this study is AZ91 magnesium alloy used for wheel lightweight.

Design/methodology/approach

Lightweight research of automobile is a significant trend, and people are paying attention to the lightweight design of automobiles. Higher requirement was proposed on design and casting performance of the wheel which is an important part of lightweighting vehicle. In order to achieve better quality, the parametric studies of alloy wheel and casting are necessary. This research designs a new model of automobile wheel, to ensure energy efficiency, the wheels must be as lightweight as possible, using magnesium alloy material for lightweight.

Findings

Analysis of casting process is a very complex issue. This research based on finite element theory and actual production, designed reasonable casting model, instant filling and solidification data were obtained. Aiming at reducing casting defects, process improvement of casting riser structure was designed. On the basis of the foundation, it has important guiding significance for actual foundry production.

Originality/value

This research establish a suitable casting model for magnesium alloy wheel. Aiming at reducing casting defects, process improvement of casting riser structure were designed.
The impacts of direct-negative and indirect-negative contact experiences on the attitudes toward the police: focus on racial differences
Authors: Lim Hyeyoung , Lee Jae-Seung
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine how direct-negative and indirect-negative contact experiences affect students' attitudes toward the police by race and test the mediation effect of social distance on the relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the data collected from two US 4-year public universities, this study employed structural equation modeling (SEM) to test the impacts of the key variables, direct-negative and indirect-negative contact experience, on the students' attitudes toward the police. This study also tests whether indirect negative contact with the police is a stronger factor than direct negative contacts among racial/ethnic minority people.

Findings

Results show that both direct-negative and indirect-negative contacts are stronger predictors of the dependent variable. In particular, the indirect-negative contact has significant direct and indirect effects through social distance on the dependent variable in racial minorities. The study also shows that indirect contact more strongly affects racial minorities than direct-negative contact experiences do.

Originality/value

This study is the first sophisticatedly to examine students' negative contact experiences into two variables: direct-negative and indirect-negative contacts with the police.
Kinship on the waterfront: logistics labour in a global port
Authors: Høyer Leivestad Hege
Published: June 2021

This article examines how kinship forms a contested element of labour under capitalist distribution. The focus of the article is on a thriving Spanish container port where the dockworker collective has been steadily growing since the multinational companies first arrived in the 1970s. In the wake of containerization – a standardized system of freight transport based on the intermodal shipping container – dock work has been revalued and become attractive in an area otherwise characterized by high unemployment rates and below‐average salaries. Drawing on ethnographic research, the article analyses how unionized dockworkers are met with stigmatization from the general public and criticized for their intergenerational access to ‘container capital’. The article contributes to current anthropological debates around the role of labour under global capitalism by tracing the links between kinship and labour in the making of a global port.
The wedding of two trees: connections, equivalences, and subjunctivity in a Tamil ritual
Authors: Venkatesan Soumhya
Published: June 2021

A wedding between two trees in a Tamil village reveals that a tree can be more than, while still remaining, a tree. It needs to be a tree because trees do certain things. It can be made more than a tree, however, through a logic of homological connections which temporarily create equivalences between trees and divinities. The wedding (kalyanam), a ubiquitous Tamil ritual form which pertains not only to marriage, creatively and subjunctively opens up new possibilities to change ‘it could be’ and ‘it should be’ to ‘let it be so’. The wedding of two trees seeks to materialize ideal situations and outcomes by mobilizing the aliveness of trees, a quality they share with humans and animals, without positing personhood, identity, or confusing categories. In making this argument, I question choices of comparators in anthropological analyses which posit a holistic ‘non‐West’ against a dualistic ‘West’ and contrast a taken‐for‐granted ‘us’ with ‘our’ really rather different ‘others’.
Practice pattern variability among gastroenterologists in colorectal cancer surveillance and management of colorectal dysplasia in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Chan Webber Pak Wo , Tan Yu Bin , Shim Hang Hock , Kaltenbach Tonya , Soetikno Roy
Published: June 2021

Objective

There is debate on the best method of colorectal cancer (CRC) surveillance in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We aimed to examine how gastroenterologists around the world practice CRC surveillance and manage dysplastic lesions in IBD.

Methods

A 22‐question survey was emailed to gastroenterologists from 34 countries. It included questions on resources for, frequency and mode of CRC surveillance, and management of colorectal dysplasia. Fisherʼs exact test and logistic regression were used to evaluate the differences among respondents in various domains.

Results

There were 217 eligible responses, with most gastroenterologists working in public hospitals (76%), and treating >10 patients with IBD weekly (71%). High‐definition white light endoscopy (HDWLE) was available in 93.1% of the centers. The preferred mode of surveillance was HDWLE with dye‐spray chromoendoscopy and targeted biopsies (41.2%). Fewer than 50% of physicians reported using chromoendoscopy in >50% of cases, citing time as the limiting factor (73.7%). Of these gastroenterologists 63% infrequently (<25% of cases) performed random biopsies during chromoendoscopy. They would attempt endoscopic mucosal resection for polypoid lesions >10 mm (67.2%), including >20 mm lesions with low grade dysplasia (49.8%), and non‐polypoid lesions >10 mm without dysplasia (56.9%). For non‐polypoid lesions >20 mm with low‐ and high‐grade dysplasia, referral to expert endoscopists was the preferred option.

Conclusion

The preferred method of CRC surveillance was HDWLE with chromoendoscopy and targeted biopsies. Random biopsies were infrequently performed. The uptake of chromoendoscopy for surveillance in practice was low. Physicians varied in their approach in removing endoscopically resectable dysplastic lesions.
Multiple calcifying fibrous tumor of the pleura: A case report
Authors: Jia Bin , Zhao Gang , Zhang Zhen‐fa , Sun Bing‐sheng
Published: June 2021

Calcifying fibrous tumor of the pleura (CFTP) is a rare benign tumor of the thoracic cavity. Due to the low incidence of CFPT, it is prone to be misdiagnosed because intraoperative analysis of frozen section is a challenge for pathologists. At present, it is difficult to distinguish this tumor from other benign thoracic tumors based on radiographic features. Therefore, surgical resection is the best method for definite diagnosis and treatment.
Introduction of a rapid sequence induction checklist and its effect on compliance to guidelines and complications
Authors: Zeuchner Jakob , Graf Jonas , Elander Louise , Frisk Jessica , Fredrikson Mats , Chew Michelle S.
Published: June 2021

Background

Current evidence for the conduct of rapid sequence induction (RSI) is weak. This increases the risk of clinicians modifying the RSI procedure according to personal preferences. Checklists may help increase compliance to best practice guidelines and reduce complication rates. Their value during RSI, a critical procedure in anaesthesia, is unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate compliance to local guidelines and frequency of RSI‐related complications before and after introduction of an RSI checklist.

Methods

This was a prospective, observational, pre‐ and post‐intervention study conducted at two hospitals. There were two interventions: the first was a standardized educational lecture to all staff at both hospitals, consisting of an educational instruction of the checklist and general information about RSI, and the second intervention was the introduction of a RSI checklist. The checklist consisted of 16 items. Compliance to guidelines was categorized as high, moderate and low, and was assessed pre‐ and post‐intervention. The frequency of RSI‐related complications was also measured.

Results

We registered 811 RSI procedures of which 412 were pre‐intervention. After intervention, the proportion of procedures with high compliance to RSI guidelines increased from 49% to 70% (P < .001). The proportion with partial and low compliance decreased from 37% to 26% (P < .001) and 13% to 3.3% (P < .001) respectively. No change in RSI‐related complication rates was detectable post‐intervention (16.6%‐16.7% P = .56).

Conclusion

The introduction of a structured RSI checklist significantly increased compliance to RSI guidelines. A change in RSI‐related complications could not be detected due to the size of the study. A checklist may be a useful tool to reduce variance during the RSI procedure.
Unique molecular signatures typify skin inflammation induced by chemical allergens and irritants
Authors: Lefevre Marine‐Alexia , Nosbaum Audrey , Rozieres Aurore , Lenief Vanina , Mosnier Amandine , Cortial Angèle , Prieux Margaux , De Bernard Simon , Nourikyan Julien , Jouve Pierre‐Emmanuel , Buffat Laurent , Hacard Florence , Ferrier‐Lebouedec Marie‐Christine , Pralong Pauline , Dzviga Charles , Herman Anne , Baeck Marie , Nicolas Jean‐François , Vocanson Marc
Published: June 2021

Background

Skin exposure to chemicals may induce an inflammatory disease known as contact dermatitis (CD). Distinguishing the allergic and irritant forms of CD often proves challenging in the clinic.

Methods

To characterize the molecular signatures of chemical‐induced skin inflammation, we conducted a comprehensive transcriptomic analysis on the skin lesions of 47 patients with positive patch tests to reference contact allergens and nonallergenic irritants.

Results

A clear segregation was observed between allergen‐ and irritant‐induced gene profiles. Distinct modules pertaining to the epidermal compartment, metabolism, and proliferation were induced by both contact allergens and irritants; whereas only contact allergens prompted strong activation of adaptive immunity, notably of cytotoxic T‐cell responses. Our results also confirmed that: (a) unique pathways characterize allergen‐ and irritant‐induced dermatitis; (b) the intensity of the clinical reaction correlates with the magnitude of immune activation. Finally, using a machine‐learning approach, we identified and validated several minimal combinations of biomarkers to distinguish contact allergy from irritation.

Conclusion

These results highlight the value of molecular profiling of chemical‐induced skin inflammation for improving the diagnosis of allergic versus irritant contact dermatitis.
Association between author conflicts of interest and industry‐sponsorship with the favorability of outcomes of systematic reviews focusing on treatments of erectile dysfunction
Authors: Corcoran Adam , Hillman Cody , Cole Tanner , Anderson Michael , Weaver Michael , Johnson Bradley S. , Hartwell Micah , Vassar Matt
Published: June 2021

Background

Authors’ conflicts of interest and industry sponsorship have been shown to influence study outcomes.

Objective

We aimed to determine whether author conflicts of interest and industry sponsorship influenced the nature of results and conclusions of systematic reviews focusing on treatment interventions for erectile dysfunction.

Materials and methods

We searched PubMed and Embase for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses focusing on erectile dysfunction treatments published between September 1, 2016, and June 2, 2020. Authors’ conflicts of interest were collected from the systematic reviews’ disclosure statements. These disclosures were verified using the information provided by the Open Payments, Dollars for Profs, Google Patents, and US Patent and Trademark Office databases and from previously published disclosure statements.

Results

Our study included 24 systematic reviews authored by 138 authors. Nineteen authors (13.8%) were found to have conflicts of interest (disclosed, undisclosed, or both). No authors completely disclosed all conflicts. Nine reviews (37.5%) contained at least one author with conflicts of interest; of which eight reported narrative results favoring the treatment group, and seven reported conclusions favoring the treatment group. Of the 15 (62.5%) reviews without a conflicted author, 11 reported results favoring the treatment group, and 12 reported conclusions favoring the treatment group.

Discussion

The results and conclusions of systematic reviews for erectile dysfunction treatments did not appear to be influenced by authors who reported conflicts of interest. However, our search algorithm relied on the US‐based Open Payments database and a large percentage of reviews in our study were produced by authors with international affiliations. Our study results underscore the difficulties in conducting such analyses.

Conclusion

Although we found that undisclosed conflicts of interest (COI) were problematic among systematic reviews of erectile dysfunction treatment, only 14% of authors in our sample possessed them and these COI did not appear to influence the favorability of systematic review outcomes.
Teams successfully 3D print vascularized liver tissue to win NASA’s vascular tissue challenge
Authors: Han Jason J.
Published: June 2021

Organ regenerative techniques will be important to study and treat diseases on Earth, and eventually in space. Scientists from Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine have successfully printed vascularized 3D Liver tissue that was viable for 30 days.
Combined and stand‐alone XEN 45 gel stent implantation: 3‐year outcomes and success predictors
Authors: Gillmann Kevin , Bravetti Giorgio Enrico , Rao Harsha L. , Mermoud André , Mansouri Kaweh
Published: June 2021

Purpose

To evaluate the 3‐year treatment outcomes of XEN 45 gel stent in open‐angle glaucoma patients.

Methods

In this prospective, single‐centre interventional study, consecutive eyes with uncontrolled intraocular pressure (IOP) or signs of disease progression despite medical treatment underwent XEN implantation either alone or combined with phacoemulsification (Phaco + XEN).

Main outcome measures

Surgical success was defined as 'complete' when 36‐month unmedicated IOP was ≤15 mmHg with a relative IOP reduction ≥ 20% from medicated baseline, while the definition of qualified success allowed no more medications than at baseline. Other definitions of success with different IOP thresholds were also analysed. Secondary outcomes included mean IOP reduction, changes in ocular hypotensive medications and rates of reoperations.

Results

Out of 149 eyes initially included, 92 eyes (61.7%) of 68 patients had complete 3‐year data (XEN: n = 26; Phaco + XEN: n = 66) after 38.2% were lost to follow‐up. Mean age was 76.3 ± 9.1 years, and 66.2% were female. Mean medicated IOP decreased from 20.8 ± 7.4 mmHg (21.0 ± 7.4 [XEN] vs. 20.0 ± 6.9 mmHg [Phaco + XEN]) at baseline to 13.1 ± 3.4 mmHg (12.9 ± 2.9 [XEN] vs. 12.9 ± 3.4 [Phaco + XEN]) at 3 years (−37.0%; p < 0.001). Medications decreased from 1.9 ± 1.3 (2.4 ± 1.5 [XEN] vs. 1.9 ± 1.2 [Phaco + XEN]) to 0.4 ± 0.9 (0.3 ± 0.8 [XEN] vs. 0.5 ± 0.9 [Phaco + XEN]) (−78.9%; p < 0.001). Complete success and qualified success were achieved in 29.0% and 31.0% of eyes, respectively. Needling revision was performed in 51 eyes (55.4%), and 26.1% underwent reoperations. Risk factors for surgical failure included male gender (odds ratio [OR]:3.6; p = 0.03), diagnosis of POAG (OR: 4.5; p < 0.01) and undergoing needling revision (OR: 4.6; p < 0.01). While the type of procedure had no effect on the outcomes of PEXG, POAG eyes undergoing combined surgery had significantly higher rates of failure (OR: 7.29; p = 0.023). Most patients stable at 12‐month remained so through to 3 years.

Conclusions

At 3 years, XEN gel stent implantation achieved clinically significant IOP and medication reduction despite relatively high rates of needling and reoperations. Identifying patients at risk preoperatively may help optimize surgical outcomes.
Human corneal endothelial cells from older donors can be cultured and passaged on cell‐derived extracellular matrix
Authors: Parekh Mohit , Ramos Tiago , O’Sullivan Finbarr , Meleady Paula , Ferrari Stefano , Ponzin Diego , Ahmad Sajjad
Published: June 2021

Purpose

To investigate the effect of culturing human corneal endothelial cells (HCEnCs) from older donors on extracellular matrix (ECM) derived from human corneal endothelial cell line (HCEC‐12).

Methods

HCEC‐12 cells were cultured on lab‐tek chamber slides for 9 days. Upon confluence, the cells were ruptured using ammonium hydroxide leaving the released ECM on the slide surface which was visualized using scanning electron microscope (SEM). HCEnCs from old aged donor tissues (n = 40) were isolated and cultured on either fibronectin‐collagen (FNC) or HCEC‐12 ECM at passage (P) 0. At subsequent passages (P1 and P2), cells were sub‐cultured on FNC and ECM separately. Live/dead analysis and tight junction using ZO‐1 staining were used to record percentage viability and morphological changes. The protein composition of HCEC‐12 ECM was then analysed using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry.

Results

SEM images showed long fibrillar‐like structures and a fully laid ECM upon confluence. HCEnCs cultured from older donor tissues on this ECM showed significantly better proliferation and morphometric characteristics at subsequent passages. Out of 1307 proteins found from the HCEC‐12 derived ECM, 93 proteins were evaluated to be matrix oriented out of which 20 proteins were exclusively found to be corneal endothelial specific.

Conclusions

ECM derived from HCEC‐12 retains protein and growth factors that stimulate the growth of HCEnCs. As the current clinical trials are from younger donors that are not available routinely for cell culture, HCEnCs from older donors can be cultured on whole ECM and passaged successfully.