bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Saudi Arabia’s small and medium enterprises (SMES) sector post-Covid-19 recovery: stakeholders’ perception on investment sustainability
Authors: Alharbi Raed Khamis
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The sound viability of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) positively influences nations’ economic growth. Studies investigating the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on SMEs in Saudi Arabia (KSA) and how the owners will source for working capital and short-term loans to kick start in the post-Covid-19 recovery are scarce. Hence, this study aims to investigate the perceived negative impact of Covid-19 on SMEs and suggests policy solutions to improve access to finance and investment sustainability for the SMEs owners in the post-Covid-19 recovery via the stakeholders’ perception in KSA.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper sourced data from Medina, Riyadh and Alqassim via virtual interviews. The study engaged SMEs owners, government agencies and banks within the covered regions in KSA. The sourced data were analysed via a thematic, and the results were presented in themes.

Findings

The findings show that the SMEs sector plays a pertinent role in KSA gross domestic product growth. But, the recent ravaging of the SME sector by the Covid-19 pandemic was adversely unprecedented, and stakeholders were caught unaware. The paper categorised the perceived impacts into most severe, severe and fairly severe. The findings show that SMEs sector post-Covid-19 recovery will require access to finance-friendly policies to revive the unique sector. This should be supported with an enabling business environment via policies that encourage investment and sustainability to achieve KSA Vision 2030.

Research limitations/implications

The study is restricted to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on SMEs and data collected via virtual interviews across three cities in KSA. Other developing Islamic nations can modify the policy suggestions from this paper to improve their SMEs sectors.

Practical implications

The significance of a robust SMEs sector to grow the economy has been established. The emerged recommendations from this paper may provide insights to the policymakers and other stakeholders. This will enhance the rebuilding of the SMEs sector across KSA in the post-Covid-19 era.

Originality/value

This study is unique because it investigated the impacts of the ravaging pandemic on SMEs owners and proffered possible solutions for quick post-Covid-19 recovery from the KSA stakeholders’ perspective.
COVID-19 on an acute psychiatric unit: an interdisciplinary, trauma-informed response
Authors: Carroll Laura , Casey Hannah , Adams Rory , O’Connor Stephanie , O’Reilly Áine
Published: February 2022

Purpose

There is a high prevalence of trauma among mental health clients, with risk of re-traumatisation when admitted to a Department of Psychiatry (DoP) (Kimberg and Wheeler, 2019). The COVID-19 pandemic poses challenges to therapy service operations in DoPs, with infection control measures impacting opportunities for therapeutic and social engagement. A trauma-informed care (TIC) lens was used when adapting services in Tallaght University Hospital DoP in response to COVID-19.

Design/methodology/approach

An interdisciplinary approach was taken to adapt therapy services during early stages of the pandemic. Changes were informed by TIC principles to minimise re-traumatisation while maintaining high-quality services. Changes included expansion of the therapeutic activity programme, changes to groups, addition of COVID-19-specific groups and increased awareness of communication support needs.

Findings

The early response to the pandemic, combined with the focus on TIC, resulted in continued, effective therapy services and positive client feedback. With clients’ involvement in their care enhanced, Individual Care Planning goals were achieved through group interventions.

Originality/value

The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented changes to mental health services. This paper highlights a response to unique challenges brought by COVID-19 on a DoP.
Experimental study on reciprocating magnetorheological polishing
Authors: Wang Rensheng , Sun Cong , Xiu Shichao , Li Bo , Zhang Xiaohua
Published: February 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to study the effects of the different processing parameters in the reciprocating magnetorheological polishing (RMRP) on the surface roughness (Ra) and material removal rate (MRR) of the workpiece surface.

Design/methodology/approach

The principle of RMRP method is discussed, and a series of the single factor experiments are performed to evaluate the effects of the workpiece’s rotational speed, the reciprocating frequency, the magnetic field strength, the working gap and the processing time on machining results using the RMRP device.

Findings

The RMRP method is effective and practical for K9 glass polishing, and the optimized processing parameters are obtained by the single factor experiments of RMRP. The surface roughness of the workpiece is reduced from 332 nm to 28 nm under optimized processing parameters.

Originality/value

In the present study, the RMRP method is proposed, and a system of experiments is carried out using the RMRP device. The RMRP device can improve the surface roughness and MRR of the K9 glass significantly. Furthermore, the test results provide references for reasonable selection of the processing parameters in magnetorheological polishing process.
Framework development and evaluation of Industry 4.0 technological aspects towards improving the circular economy-based supply chain
Authors: Agarwal Somesh , Tyagi Mohit , Garg Rajiv Kumar
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to present Industry 4.0 technologies for advancing the circular economy (CE) adaption in manufacturing industry’s supply chain (SC) network. To pursue the same, Industry 4.0 technological aspects were recognized as solution measures to overcome the challenges for CE implementation in SC.

Design methodology approach

A new hierarchical framework containing 13 leading CE challenges and eight promising Industry 4.0 technological aspects had been proposed, representing their mutual relationship. The proposed framework was analysed using a hybrid approach of analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and combinative distance-based assessment (CODAS) under interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy (IVIF) environment. The IVIF-AHP was used to acquire the priority weights of the CE challenges, whereas the IVIF-CODAS was used to attain the preference order of the proposed technological aspects.

Findings

The key findings of the present work indicate that “Information disruptions among the SC members due to multiple channels” and “Manpower inability to handle the toxic materials” are the two most critical challenges hindering the adoption of CE practices in SC. Along with, the results also demonstrate that to overcome these challenges, “Smarter equipment to empower flexibility and mass customization” and “Big data driven decision-making system” are the two most significant Industry 4.0 technological solutions, adoption of which might encourage the organizations to align their operations with CE philosophies.

Research limitations implications

The sample size of the experts engaged in work was limited; however, big data studies could be conducted in future to capture more insights of the stated topic. In addition to this, to understand the implication of CE on Industry 4.0-based manufacturing, a separate study can be synthesised in future.

Originality value

The proposed work facilitates a new framework consolidating various perspectives associated with CE implementation into a manufacturing industry considering the scenario of Indian rubber industry. This study enables the decision-makers to recognize the challenging factors for CE implementation into their organizations and up-taking the proposed Industry 4.0 practices as technological measures for improving the organization overall performance.
Determination of managerial resourcefulness in the Turkish hospitality industry: a grounded theory study
Authors: Ersoy Aslı , Ehtiyar Rüya
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to use the grounded theory approach to develop a theoretical understanding of managerial resourcefulness in Turkish culture from the perspective of both hospitality managers and subordinates.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts the grounded theory approach to systematically analyze the real experience of participants. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 55 participants, namely, 15 general managers and 40 department managers of five star hotels in Antalya. Computer-based qualitative data analysis software (NVivo 10) was used to analyze the data.

Findings

The data from the interviews suggest that Turkish managers can regulate their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors while performing their managerial tasks. Furthermore, they are acutely aware of the role of subordinates in maximizing managerial and organizational efficiency and place such priorities at the center of the organization. The role of culture on managerial resourcefulness is visible. Despite this, organizations are not affected by the high power distance culture within the country. Specifically, managers have a management model based on mutual trust with their subordinates, giving importance to their feelings, thoughts and well-being, communicating strongly with them, expressing appreciation and gratitude for them, and emphasizing human values.

Originality/value

The paper is the first attempt to develop a hotel-specific model of managerial resourcefulness, which could serve as a theoretical foundation in the further examination of managerial resourcefulness. Therefore, this study contributes to the existing literature by shedding light on the importance of sector-specific competencies in effectively managing subordinates in Turkish culture.
Determinants of Islamic banking adoption among non-Muslim customers in a Muslim zone
Authors: Ezeh Precious Chikezie , Nkamnebe Anayo D.
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to establish the relationship between relative advantage, social influence, trust, compatibility, knowledge and adoption of Islamic banking among non-Muslim bank customers in a Muslim zone of Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

Usable questionnaires were received from 350 participants. Structural equation modeling is used to assess the relationships between latent unobserved constructs. Composite reliability and average variance extracted were used to test the reliability and validity of the instrument. This study uses the correlational research design to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The findings indicate that relative advantage, social influence, trust and compatibility significantly influence adoption of Islamic banking among non-Muslim customers in a Muslim zone of Nigeria. However, knowledge of Islamic banking operations does not significantly influence adoption of Islamic banking.

Originality/value

The existing literature focuses on factors that influence the adoption of Islamic banking, without due emphasis on non-Muslims. The religious divides of Nigeria compel this research to determine the factors that influence the adoption of Islamic banking among non-Muslim customers. Hence, this research seeks to bridge the gap in the existing literature by embarking on an investigation using innovation diffusion theory to identify factors influencing the adoption of Islamic banking among non-Muslim customers in the Nigerian context.
Digital technology driven knowledge sharing for job performance
Authors: Deng Hepu , Duan Sophia Xiaoxia , Wibowo Santoso
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate how digital technologies are used for facilitating knowledge sharing and decision-making through enhanced coordination and communication and their impact on job performance in organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual model is developed within the background of the social capital theory through a comprehensive review of the related literature for exploring how digital technologies can improve knowledge sharing and decision-making via enhanced communication and coordination between individuals in organizations for better job performance. This model is then tested and validated based on structural equation modeling of the collected survey data in Australia.

Findings

This study shows that digital technology enhanced coordination and communication have significant impact on knowledge sharing. It finds out that digital technology driven coordination significantly influences decision-making and digital technology driven knowledge sharing significantly influences decision-making. Furthermore, this study reveals that enhanced decision-making and knowledge sharing can lead to better job performance in organizations.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first attempt to explore the role of digital technologies in enhancing knowledge sharing and decision-making for better job performance in a digitalized working environment in organizations. The validated model can be used as the foundation to further investigate the changing role of digital technologies in driving knowledge sharing for better performance of individuals and competitive advantages of organizations.
Leadership and stewardship in public procurement: roles and responsibilities, skills and abilities
Authors: Steinfeld Joshua M.
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the roles and responsibilities most important to public procurement practitioners to learn about procurement’s influence in the public management setting. Also, the skills and abilities associated with these roles and responsibilities are identified and discussed to implicate the strategic orientations of practitioner work and the skills and abilities that support these endeavors.

Design/methodology/approach

The 2020 National Institute of Governmental Purchasing (NIGP) survey is used as a method of primary data collection and analysis. Factor analyses are run to yield relationships between the roles and responsibilities in public procurement to determine what it is that public practitioners value the most in their work, as well as to control for skills and abilities, to implicate the ways in which these roles and responsibilities are approached from a strategic perspective.

Findings

The results demonstrate that public procurement roles and responsibilities do not easily fit into any one category of public management, and that qualitative factors in public procurement are rated to be more important than quantitative factors. Additionally, the skills and abilities deemed to be most important in completing these roles and responsibilities implicate qualitative traits such as building trust and credibility, effective communications and relationship management.

Social implications

The study demonstrates that although public procurement practitioners view the socio-economic roles and responsibilities to be most important, such as in creating a culture of continuous improvement, developing a thriving workplace, supporting an ethical workplace and providing professional development opportunities, that public procurement falls short because the actual implementation of social and environmentally sustainable policies and fostering of an ethical professional culture are not viewed to be important by practitioners. The study offers leadership and stewardship as an approach to combat this lack of follow-through by public procurement departments.

Originality/value

This study provides exclusive access to the 2020 NIGP study and, to the best of the author’s knowledge, is the first research of its kind to highlight the roles and responsibilities, skills and abilities viewed to be most important by public procurement practitioners. Additionally, the link between skills and abilities, and roles and responsibilities is discussed to implicate leadership and stewardship in the strategic orientations of public procurement.
Human enhancement technologies and the future of consumer well-being
Authors: Lima Vitor , Belk Russell
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a conceptual framework that highlights transhumanism’s ideals of achieving superintelligence, super longevity and super well-being through human enhancement technologies (HET) and their relations with services marketing principles.

Design/methodology/approach

Framed by the transformative service research (TSR), this conceptual work articulates the 7Ps of the marketing mix with four macro-factors that create tensions at both the marketplace and consumer levels.

Findings

HET has potential for doing good but also tremendous bad; greater attention is needed from services marketing researchers especially in one proprietary research area: bioethics.

Research limitations/implications

The authors contribute to the growing work on TSR investigating how the interplay between service providers and consumers affects the well-being of both. Additionally, the authors call for novel interdisciplinary work in transhuman services research.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is one of the first papers in services marketing research to explore the promises and perils of transhumanism ideals and human enhancement technologies.
Students' perceptions of augmented reality integrated into a mobile learning environment
Authors: Li Mingchao , Liu Liping
Published: February 2022

Purpose

This study was based on situated learning, by combining mobile learning and augmented reality, so that students could not only access information content in a real environment but also obtain such information via augmented reality, to support mobile learning.

Design/methodology/approach

The research included development of an augmented reality system combined with situational learning, used by students to learn about campus plants as part of the college life technology curriculum. Students took part in mobile learning, and an investigation was conducted into the computer learning behaviour of notebook users. College students were used as the experimental subjects. Data were collected using questionnaire surveys and were evaluated in order to identify the behavioural intentions of learners in outdoor learning activities.

Findings

The questionnaire survey covered environmental interactivity, system quality and textbook content. It was found that learners who used mobile learning augmented reality (MLAR) generally managed to browse all the contents of the textbook at each learning location, without spending too much time looking for information, and learners could quickly integrate this into the learning situation. Learners who used MLAR had a strong motivation to study plants at the learning site because they wanted to use the augmented reality technology to observe virtual plant models. Learners who used MLAR in their field learning liked using augmented reality for further learning, for example, using a magic wand to interact with the technology.

Originality/value

This study adopted a new approach to deliver elements of the life technology curriculum, integrating augmented reality into mobile learning. All participating students gave positive reviews of six aspects of the proposed system: their behavioural intentions, cognitive usefulness, cognitive ease of use, environmental interactivity, system quality and textbook content.
ZnO-based nanocomposites for removal of lead (Pb2+) from water/wastewater: a review
Authors: Khashij Maryam , Salmani Mohammad Hossein , Dalvand Arash , Fallahzadeh Hossien , Haghirosadat Fatemeh , Mokhtari Mehdi
Published: February 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to investigation of processes for Pb2+ elimination from water/wastewater as a significant public health issue in many parts of world. The removal of Pb2+ ions by various nanocomposites has been explained from water/wastewaters. ZnO-based nanocomposites, as eco-friendly nanoparticles with unique physicochemical properties, have received increased attention to remove Pb2+ ions from water/wastewaters.

Design/methodology/approach

In this review, different ZnO-based nanocomposites were reviewed for their application in the removal of Pb2+ ions from the aqueous solution, typically for wastewater treatment using methodology, such as adsorption. This review focused on the ZnO-based nanocomposites for removing Pb2+ ions from water and wastewaters systems.

Findings

The ZnO-based nanocomposite was prepared by different methods, such as electrospinning, hydrothermal/alkali hydrothermal, direct precipitation and polymerization. Depending on the preparation method, various types of ZnO-based nanocomposites like ZnO-metal (Cu/ZnO, ZnO/ZnS, ZnO/Fe), ZnO-nonmetal (PVA/ZnO, Talc/ZnO) and ZnO-metal/nonmetal (ZnO/Na-Y zeolite) were obtained with different morphologies. The effects of operational parameters and adsorption mechanisms were discussed in the review.

Research limitations/implications

The findings may be greatly useful in the application of the ZnO-based nanocomposite in the fields of organic and inorganic pollutants adsorption.

Practical implications

The present study is novel, because it investigated the morphological and structural properties of the synthesized ZnO-based nanocomposite using different methods and studied the capability of green-synthesized ZnO-based nanocomposite to remove Pb2+ ions as water contaminants.

Social implications

The current review can be used for the development of environmental pollution control measures.

Originality/value

This paper reviews the rapidly developing field of nanocomposite technology.
CSR crises from the consumers’ perspective: a multidimensional typology and future research agenda
Authors: Grunwald Guido
Published: February 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a multidimensional corporate social responsibility (CSR) crisis typology from the consumers’ perspective and to provide an agenda for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

Basic content-related dimensions for characterizing CSR crises from the consumers’ perspective are derived from a review of relevant static crisis typologies. Different types of consumer responses to negative CSR information are derived from various theoretical approaches. Dynamic process models of corporate crises are reviewed to assign various types of consumer responses to different crisis phases. Linking both static and dynamic approaches leads to a comprehensive consumer-oriented typology of CSR crises that is illustrated with examples.

Findings

A CSR crises typology is developed based on three consumer-related dimensions: the extent to which the company is attributed blame by consumers; the amount of perceived damage potential; and the perceived CSR relevance of the crisis situation. The combination of these dimensions results in eight different crisis types. For each of these crisis types, different forms of consumer responses are assigned that prevail in the so-called potential, latent and manifest crisis phase.

Research limitations/implications

Future research could address the empirical review of the crisis typology presented, its refinement by considering various consumer and stakeholder segmentation approaches and the advanced dynamic analysis of CSR crises by including stakeholder characteristics that impact the diffusion of CSR-related negative publicity.

Practical implications

The results of this paper support early crisis detection and effective crisis management by identifying relevant target variables for crisis communication.

Originality/value

The typology developed enables a broad spectrum of CSR crises to be classified, including those that have been neglected in previous systematization approaches, such as CSR-related tensions, general sustainability crises and product-harm crises. Due to its theoretical foundation, this paper also contributes to a clearer demarcation of existing CSR crisis constructs.
Multilevel boundary crossing and dialogical learning mechanisms in interdisciplinary research teams
Authors: Ryymin Essi , Lamberg Laura
Published: February 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to reveal learning potential in crossing disciplinary boundaries in facilitated workshops by exploring the research goal definition process of interdisciplinary research teams. It uses multilevel boundary crossing as a theoretical framework to illustrate the multilevel nature of team learning mechanisms in interdisciplinary research.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a qualitative case study approach. The data was collected from semi-structured interviews and collaborative workshops of interdisciplinary researchers. The data analysis is based on pre-existing theory and the process of analysis is both data and theory driven.

Findings

The results indicate that although defining interdisciplinary research goals is a complex and demanding task, collaborative and facilitated workshops may support boundary crossing on intrapersonal, interpersonal and institutional levels. The team members efforts in defining their shared research interest revealed dialogical learning mechanisms of identification, coordination, reflection and the first phases of transformation, particularly at the interpersonal level. However, the transformative actions seemed to require intentional team facilitation.

Originality/value

This case study enriches the existing literature and allows better understanding of how team facilitation can promote agenda setting, transformative learning mechanisms and the definition of joint research goals in interdisciplinary settings.
Occupational therapy service provision in adult intensive care units in Australia: A survey of workload practices, interventions and barriers
Authors: Rapolthy‐Beck Andrea , Fleming Jennifer , Turpin Merrill
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Occupational therapy practice within intensive care units (ICUs) is limited with respect to published research evidence and guidelines regarding scope of practice. An understanding of the current level of service provision, feasibility of services in ICUs and training and development needs of occupational therapists is required to enable consistent best practice and promote the occupational therapy profile. This study aimed to explore occupational therapy practice within ICUs in Australia including the barriers and enablers to practice perceived by occupational therapists.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, a national customised online survey was completed by registered occupational therapists who provide services in intensive care settings in Australia. Recruitment was from July to September 2019 through Occupational Therapy Australia and other professional networks and interest groups.

Results

The survey was completed by 43 respondents. The majority were experienced therapists from Queensland with greater than 10‐years post‐qualification and working in a tertiary hospital setting. The most common length of time spent working in the ICU was 0–2 h per week. Formal and informal self‐care measures, cognitive screens and physical outcome measures were commonly used. Bed‐based grooming retraining, pressure care management, functional upper limb retraining and passive ranging were the most frequent interventions provided on a daily basis. Perceived barriers to occupational therapy service provision in ICU included lack of funding for staffing, competing workload demands, lack of occupational therapy role delineation and scope of practice and lack of published evidence and training.

Conclusion

Occupational therapy services in intensive care settings in Australia are limited. Published practice guidelines, further research, applications for service funding and ongoing education of the ICU multidisciplinary team regarding the scope of occupational therapy practice are recommended to promote the development of occupational therapy services in ICU.
Gender heterogeneity and microfinance sustainability in Sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Olohunlana Aminat Olayinka , Adeleye Ngozi Bosede , Olohunlana Somod Dapo , AbdulKareem Hauwah K. K.
Published: February 2022

Aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 5, which aims to ‘achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls’, this study examines the impact of board heterogeneity on the sustainability of 794 microfinance institutions in 22 Sub‐Saharan African countries from 2010 to 2018. Using the panel–spatial correlation consistent estimation technique to correct for incidences of cross‐sectional dependence, heteroscedasticity and serial correlation, the findings reveal that gender heterogeneity in the boardroom exerts a positive and significant influence on the sustainability of microfinance institutions in Sub‐Saharan Africa. In addition, factors such as the portfolio quality and the level of corruption in the domiciled countries threaten microfinance sustainability while its total asset base and leverage enhance it. In part, the study suggests that policy discussions on microfinance sustainability should emphasise ensuring increasing participation of women in the boardroom.
Review article: E‐learning in emergency medicine: A systematic review
Authors: Savage Alexander J , McNamara Patrick W , Moncrieff Thomas W , O'Reilly Gerard M
Published: February 2022

E‐learning (EL) has been developing as a medical education resource since the arrival of the internet. The COVID‐19 pandemic has minimised clinical exposure for medical trainees and forced educators to use EL to replace traditional learning (TL) resources. The aim of this review was to determine the impact of EL versus TL on emergency medicine (EM) learning outcomes of medical trainees. A systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta‐analysis statement using articles sourced from CINAHL, Embase, OVID Medline and PubMed. Articles were independently reviewed by two reviewers following strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. Bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. The search yielded a total of 1586 non‐duplicate studies. A total of 19 studies were included for data extraction. Fifteen of the included studies assessed knowledge gain of participants using multiple‐choice questions as an outcome measure. Eleven of the 15 demonstrated no statistically significant difference while two studies favoured EL with statistical significance and two favoured TL with statistical significance. Six of the included studies assessed practical skill gain of participants. Five of the six demonstrated no statistical significance while one study favoured EL with statistical significance. This systematic review suggests that EL may be comparable to TL for the teaching of EM. The authors encourage the integration of EL as an adjunct to face‐to‐face teaching where possible in EM curricula; however, the overall low quality of evidence precludes definitive conclusions from being drawn.
A transposon‐introduced G‐quadruplex motif is selectively retained and constrained to downregulate CYP321A1
Authors: Deng Zhongyuan , Zhang Yuting , Gao Chao , Shen Wei , Wang Shan , Ni Xinzhi , Liu Sisi , Li Xianchun
Published: February 2022

Insects utilize xenobiotic compounds to up‐ and downregulate cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (P450s) involved in detoxification of toxic xenobiotics including phytochemicals and pesticides. G‐quadruplexes (G4)‐forming DNA motifs are enriched in the promoter regions of transcription factors and function as cis‐acting elements to regulate these genes. Whether and how P450s gain and keep G4 DNA motifs to regulate their expression still remain unexplored. Here, we show that CYP321A1, a xenobiotic‐metabolizing P450 from Helicoverpa zea, a polyphagous insect of economic importance, has acquired and preserved a G4 DNA motif by selectively retaining a transposon known as HzIS1‐3 that carries this G4 DNA motif in its promoter region. The HzIS1‐3 G4 DNA motif acts as a silencer to suppress the constitutive and induced expression of CYP321A1 by plant allelochemicals flavone and xanthotoxin through folding into an intramolecular parallel or hybrid‐1 conformation in the absence or presence of K+. The G4 ligand N‐methylmesoporphyrin IX (NMM) strengthens the silencing effect of HzIS1‐3 G4 DNA motif by switching its structure from hybrid‐1 to hybrid‐2. The enrichment of transposons in P450s and other environment‐adaptation genes implies that selective retention of G4 DNA motif‐carrying transposons may be the main evolutionary route for these genes to obtain G4 DNA motifs.
Traumatic irreducible anterior dislocation of the radio‐capitellar joint due to entrapment of the brachialis tendon lateral to the radial head: A case report
Authors: Dimmick Simon , Lin Jiun‐Lih , Linklater James , Sher Doron
Published: February 2022

Elbow dislocation is the second most common type of joint dislocation in adults and the most common joint dislocation in children. These dislocations are commonly associated with significant soft tissue injury and/or fractures. Anterior dislocation of the radio‐capitellar articulation is uncommon. Failure of relocation of the radial head due to soft tissue imposition requiring open reduction is rare, however, is extremely important to recognise clinically and radiologically. This case report describes a case of anterior dislocation of the radio‐capitellar joint due to entrapment of the brachialis tendon lateral to the radial head and discusses the radiological assessment and the spectrum of causes of a clinically irreducible radio‐capitellar joint. Misdiagnosis of a dislocation or failed reduction may result in long‐term functional sequelae for the patient.
An experimental test of the Coase conjecture: Fairness in dynamic bargaining
Authors: Fanning Jack , Kloosterman Andrew
Published: February 2022

We conduct a novel experimental test of the Coase conjecture based on subjects' privately known preferences for fairness. In an infinite horizon bargaining game, a proposer proposes a division of chips, until a responder accepts. When players are patient, the Coase conjecture predicts almost immediate agreement on equal monetary payoffs given any possibility a responder will not accept anything less. Behavior closely matches theory. In particular, when chips are worth more to proposers than responders, initial offers, minimum acceptable offers, responder payoffs, and efficiency are significantly larger in infinite horizon games than ultimatum games, and proposer payoffs are significantly smaller.
Multi‐scale, multivariate community models improve designation of biodiversity hotspots in the Sunda Islands
Authors: Chiaverini L. , Macdonald D. W. , Bothwell H. M. , Hearn A. J. , Cheyne S. M. , Haidir I. , Hunter L. T. B. , Kaszta Ż , Macdonald E. A. , Ross J. , Cushman S. A.
Published: February 2022

Species occur in sympatric assemblages, bound together by ecological relationships and interspecific interactions. Borneo and Sumatra host some of the richest assemblages of biota worldwide. The region, however, faces the highest global deforestation rates, which seriously threaten its unique biodiversity. We used a large camera trap dataset that recorded data for 70 terrestrial species of mammals and birds, to explore the drivers of regional species richness patterns. Using a multi‐scale, multivariate modelling framework which quantified the main environmental factors associated with patterns of biodiversity, while simultaneously assessing individual relationships of each species, we determined the ecological drivers of sampled biodiversity, and their contributions to community assemblages. We then mapped predicted species richness, evaluated the effectiveness of protected areas in securing biodiversity hotspots, performed gap analysis to highlight biodiverse areas lacking protection and compared our predictions with species richness maps produced by using IUCN range layers. Finally, we investigated the performance of each species as an indicator of sampled biodiversity. We demonstrate that biodiversity in Borneo and Sumatra is primarily affected by gradients of ecological and anthropogenic factors, and only marginally by topographic and spatial factors. In both islands, species are primarily associated with elevational gradients in vegetation and climate, leading to altitudinal zonation in niche separation as a major factor characterizing the islands' biodiversity. Species richness was highest in north‐eastern Borneo and in western Sumatra. We found that most predicted biodiversity hotspots are not formally protected in either island; only 9.2 and 18.2% of the modelled species richness occurred within protected areas in Borneo and Sumatra, respectively. We highlighted that our prediction for Borneo performed better than, and differed drastically from, the IUCN species richness layer, while for Sumatra our modelled species richness layer and the IUCN one were similar, and both showed low predictive power. Our analysis suggests that common and generalist carnivores are the most effective indicators of sampled biodiversity and have high potential as focal, umbrella or indicator species to assist multi‐species vertebrate conservation planning. Understanding existing drivers and patterns of biodiversity is critical to support the development of effective community conservation strategies in this rapidly changing region.
Anomalies in global network connectivity associated with early recovery from alcohol dependence: A network transcranial magnetic stimulation and electroencephalography study
Authors: Naim‐Feil Jodie , Fitzgerald Paul B. , Rubinson Mica , Lubman Dan I. , Sheppard Dianne M. , Bradshaw John L. , Levit‐Binnun Nava , Moses Elisha
Published: February 2022

Although previous research in alcohol dependent populations identified alterations within local structures of the addiction ‘reward’ circuitry, there is limited research into global features of this network, especially in early recovery. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is capable of non‐invasively perturbing the brain network while electroencephalography (EEG) measures the network response. The current study is the first to apply a TMS inhibitory paradigm while utilising network science (graph theory) to quantify network anomalies associated with alcohol dependence. Eleven individuals with alcohol‐dependence (ALD) in early recovery and 16 healthy controls (HC) were administered 75 single pulses and 75 paired‐pulses (inhibitory paradigm) to both the left and right prefrontal cortex (PFC). For each participant, Pearson cross‐correlation was applied to the EEG data and correlation matrices constructed. Global network measures (mean degree, clustering coefficient, local efficiency and global efficiency) were extracted for comparison between groups. Following administration of the inhibitory paired‐pulse TMS to the left PFC, the ALD group exhibited altered mean degree, clustering coefficient, local efficiency and global efficiency compared to HC. Decreases in local efficiency increased the prediction of being in the ALD group, while all network metrics (following paired‐pulse left TMS) were able to adequately discriminate between the groups. In the ALD group, reduced mean degree and global clustering was associated with increased severity of past alcohol use. Our study provides preliminary evidence of altered network topology in patients with alcohol dependence in early recovery. Network anomalies were predictive of high alcohol use and correlated with clinical features of alcohol dependence. Further research using this novel brain mapping technique may identify useful network biomarkers of alcohol dependence and recovery.
People with tobacco use disorder exhibit more prefrontal activity during preparatory control but reduced anterior cingulate activity during reactive control
Authors: Kalhan Shivam , Chen Li Peng Evelyn , Garrido Marta I. , Hester Robert
Published: February 2022

Reduced inhibitory control and a hypersensitivity to reward are key deficits in drug dependents; however, they tend to be studied in isolation. Here, we seek to understand the neural processes underlying control over reward and how this is different in people with a tobacco use disorder (pTUD). A novel variant of the monetary incentive delay task was performed by pTUD (n = 20) and non‐smokers (n = 20), where we added a stop‐signal component such that participants had to inhibit prepotent responses to earn a larger monetary reward. Brain activity was recorded using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). We estimated stop signal reaction times (SSRTs), an indicator of impulsivity, and correlated these with brain activity. Inhibitory accuracy scores did not differ between the control group and pTUD. However, pTUD had slower SSRTs, suggesting that they may find it harder to inhibit responses. Brain data revealed that pTUD had greater preparatory control activity in the middle frontal gyrus and inferior frontal gyrus prior to successful inhibitions over reward. In contrast, non‐smokers had greater reactive control associated with more activity in the anterior cingulate cortex during these successful inhibitions. SSRT–brain activity correlations revealed that pTUD engaged more control‐related prefrontal brain regions when SSRTs are slower. Overall, while the inhibition accuracy scores were similar between groups, differential neural processes and strategies were used to successfully inhibit a prepotent response. The findings suggest that increasing preparatory control in pTUD may be one possible treatment target in order to increase inhibitory control over reward.
Cannibalism and intraguild predation between endemic and introduced coccidophagous lady beetles (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)
Authors: Oliveira Cynara M , Silva‐Torres Christian S A , Torres Jorge B , De La Pava Nataly
Published: February 2022

The Chilocorini lady beetles Tenuisvalvae notata (Mulsant) and Cryptolaemus montrouzieri Mulsant are important biological control agents being able to share their habitat and compete for their preferred prey, mealybugs. Whereas T. notata is native to South America, C. montrouzieri is an Australian species introduced in Brazil in a biological control program of mealybugs. This work investigated the cannibalism and intraguild predation between these species in the absence of prey. To test for intraguild predation, one individual larva (instars 1–4) from each species was confined for 24 h with another larva of the same instar or the next instar, in a total of 10 combinations. In addition, we measured predation of T. notata adults upon eggs, larvae, pre‐pupae and pupa of C. montrouzieri, and vice versa. Cannibalism within the species was also tested across adults, larvae and eggs. Results showed asymmetric interactions in favour of C. montrouzieri, which acted as intraguild predator more than 80% of the time when paired with larvae of T. notata either of the same or different instar. In addition, C. montrouzieri adults preyed more upon larvae and eggs of T. notata than the contrary. There was no intraguild predation upon pre‐pupae and pupae. Cannibalism was high upon eggs and first instar larvae of T. notata (89.5% and 65%) and C. montrouzieri (100% and 55%), respectively. Therefore, the exotic C. montrouzieri outcompeted the native T. notata and could become a threat to this endemic species in areas of simultaneous occurrence and under prey scarcity. Thus, the interactions between these lady beetles could affect the success of biological control of mealybugs.
Outcomes associated with once‐daily versus multiple‐daily dosing of buprenorphine/naloxone for opioid use disorder
Authors: Allen Sarah M. , Nichols Taylor A. , Fawcett Janet , Lin Show
Published: February 2022

Background and Objectives

Clinical studies examining once‐daily versus multiple‐daily dosing of buprenorphine/naloxone in patients with opioid use disorder (OUD) in the absence of comorbid pain are lacking.

Methods

This retrospective chart review aimed to compare 100 patients prescribed single‐daily buprenorphine/naloxone (n = 50) to those prescribed multiple‐daily buprenorphine/naloxone (n = 50) to elucidate the impact that dosing frequency has on negative urine drug screens (UDS) and the number of relapses in OUD.

Results

The once‐daily cohort produced 84% negative UDSs compared with 74% in the multiple‐daily cohort which was statistically significant (p = .034). There were a total of 43 relapses reported in the once‐daily cohort, compared with 141 relapses in the multiple‐daily cohort (p < .001). The average number of relapses per patient in the single‐daily cohort was 0.68 compared with the multiple‐daily cohort average of 2.16 (p < .001). In the once‐daily cohort, 14% of patients experienced at least one relapse throughout the study, compared with 31% in the multiple‐daily cohort (p < .002). There were no significant differences between time to relapse, adherence to treatment, or treatment retention. Statistically significantly more patients in the multiple‐daily cohort were using methamphetamines (p = .005); there were no significant differences between groups with the use of any other illicit or non‐prescribed substances.

Discussion and Conclusions

Once‐daily dosing was associated with more negative UDSs and fewer opioid relapses compared with multiple‐daily dosing.

Scientific Significance

This was the first study to evaluate buprenorphine/naloxone dosing frequency for opioid use disorder, in the absence of chronic pain. Additional studies evaluating optimal dosing schedules for relapse prevention are warranted.
Patient outcomes following transfer between intensive care units during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Huq F. , Manners E. , O'Callaghan D. , Thakuria L. , Weaver C. , Waheed U. , Stümpfle R. , Brett S. J. , Patel P. , Soni S.
Published: February 2022

Transferring critically ill patients between intensive care units (ICU) is often required in the UK, particularly during the COVID‐19 pandemic. However, there is a paucity of data examining clinical outcomes following transfer of patients with COVID‐19 and whether this strategy affects their acute physiology or outcome. We investigated all transfers of critically ill patients with COVID‐19 between three different hospital ICUs, between March 2020 and March 2021. We focused on inter‐hospital ICU transfers (those patients transferred between ICUs from different hospitals) and compared this cohort with intra‐hospital ICU transfers (patients moved between different ICUs within the same hospital). A total of 507 transfers were assessed, of which 137 met the inclusion criteria. Forty‐five patients underwent inter‐hospital transfers compared with 92 intra‐hospital transfers. There was no significant change in median compliance 6 h pre‐transfer, immediately post‐transfer and 24 h post‐transfer in patients who underwent either intra‐hospital or inter‐hospital transfers. For inter‐hospital transfers, there was an initial drop in median PaO2/FIO2 ratio: from median (IQR [range]) 25.1 (17.8–33.7 [12.1–78.0]) kPa 6 h pre‐transfer to 19.5 (14.6–28.9 [9.8–52.0]) kPa immediately post‐transfer (p < 0.05). However, this had resolved at 24 h post‐transfer: 25.4 (16.2–32.9 [9.4–51.9]) kPa. For intra‐hospital transfers, there was no significant change in PaO2/FIO2 ratio. We also found no meaningful difference in pH; PaCO2;, base excess; bicarbonate; or norepinephrine requirements. Our data demonstrate that patients with COVID‐19 undergoing mechanical ventilation of the lungs may have short‐term physiological deterioration when transferred between nearby hospitals but this resolves within 24 h. This finding is relevant to the UK critical care strategy in the face of unprecedented demand during the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Ankyrin‐2 genetic variants: A case of Ankyrin‐B syndrome
Authors: Song Jin , Sasmita Bryan Richard , Deng GuoLan
Published: February 2022

Inherited cardiac arrhythmias (ICA) have become one of the leading causes of sudden cardiac death in people under 40 years old. Variants in the ankyrin‐B or ankyrin‐2 genes will result in several cardiac arrhythmias ranging from sinus node dysfunction to life‐threatening arrhythmias. In this case study, we report a typical ankyrin‐2 variant, in which ventricular tachyarrhythmias might be reproduced through exercise or stress tests.