bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sublingual microcirculatory alterations during the immediate and early postoperative period: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chalkias Athanasios , Papagiannakis Nikolaos , Mavrovounis Georgios , Kolonia Konstantina , Mermiri Maria , Pantazopoulos Ioannis , Laou Eleni , Arnaoutoglou Eleni
Published: April 2021

Study objective

To systematically review the literature regarding the presence of sublingual microcirculatory alterations during the immediate and early postoperative period.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis searching PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar.

Patients/interventions

Studies comparing sublingual microcirculation before and after surgery.

Measurement

The primary outcome was to investigate the severity of microcirculatory alterations during the immediate and early postoperative period in adult patients undergoing non-cardiac and cardiac surgery.

Main results

Among 17 eligible studies, 13 were finally analyzed. A non-statistically significant difference was found between preoperative and postoperative total vessel density (p=0.084; estimate: −0.029; 95% CI: −0.31 to 0.26; I2= 22.55%, Q = 10.23, p=0.24). Perfused vessel density significantly decreased postoperatively (p=0.035; estimate: 0.344; 95% CI: 0.02 to 0.66; I2= 65.66%, Q = 41.77, p<0.001), while perfused boundary region significantly increased postoperatively (p=0.031; estimate: −0.415; 95% CI: −0.79 to −0.03; I2= 37.21%, Q = 6.56, p=0.16). Microvascular flow index significantly decreased postoperatively (p=0.028; estimate: 0. 587; 95% CI: 0.06 to 1.11; I2= 86.09%, Q = 96.28, p<0.001), while a non-statistically significant difference was found between preoperative and postoperative proportion of perfused vessels (p=0.089; estimate: 0.53; 95% CI: −0.08 to 1.14; I2= 70.71%, Q = 18.99, p=0.002). The results in the non-cardiac surgery subgroup were comparable with the full group except that a statistically non-significant difference in PVD was found in the remaining seven studies (p=0.19; estimate: 0.26; 95% CI: −0.13 to 0.66; I2= 71.94%, Q = 33.42, p=0.002). The other parameters did not differ significantly from their respective full group results.

Conclusions

Significant sublingual microcirculatory alterations are present during the immediate and early postoperative period.
Unraveling Attributes of COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy in the U.S.: A Large Nationwide Study
Authors: McCabe Sean D. , Hammershaimb Elizabeth A. , Cheng David , Shi Andy , Shyr Derek , Shen Shuting , Cole Lyndsey D. , Cataldi Jessica R. , Allen William , Probasco Ryan , Silbermann Ben , Zhang Feng , Marsh Regan , Travassos Mark A. , Lin Xihong
Published: April 2021

SARS-CoV-2 vaccines are powerful tools to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, but vaccine hesitancy threatens these vaccines’ effectiveness. To address COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and ensure equitable distribution, understanding the extent of and factors associated with vaccine hesitancy is critical. We report the results of a large nationwide study conducted December 2020-January 2021 of 34,470 users from COVID-19-focused smartphone-based app How We Feel on their willingness to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. Nineteen percent of respondents expressed vaccine hesitancy, the majority being undecided. Vaccine hesitancy was significant among females, younger people, minority and low-income communities, healthcare and essential workers, rural residents, geographical regions with higher COVID-19 burden, those who did not use protective measures, and those who did not receive COVID-19 tests. Our findings support the need for targeted efforts to develop education and outreach programs to overcome vaccine hesitancy and improve equitable access, diversity, and inclusion in the national response to COVID-19.
Phylogenetic estimates of SARS-CoV-2 introductions into Washington State
Authors: Tordoff Diana M. , Greninger Alexander L. , Roychoudhury Pavitra , Shrestha Lasata , Xie Hong , Jerome Keith R. , Breit Nathan , Huang Meei-Li , Famulare Mike , Herbeck Joshua T.
Published: April 2021

Background

The first confirmed case of SARS-CoV-2 in North America was identified in Washington state on January 21, 2020. We aimed to quantify the number and temporal trends of out-of-state introductions of SARS-CoV-2 into Washington.

Methods

We conducted a phylogenetic analysis of 11,422 publicly available whole genome SARS-CoV-2 sequences from GISAID sampled between December 2019 and September 2020. We used maximum parsimony ancestral state reconstruction methods on time-calibrated phylogenies to enumerate introductions/exports, their likely geographic source (e.g. US, non-US, and between eastern and western Washington), and estimated date of introduction. To incorporate phylogenetic uncertainty into our estimates, we conducted 5,000 replicate analyses by generating 25 random time-stratified samples of non-Washington reference sequences, 20 random polytomy resolutions, and 10 random resolutions of the reconstructed ancestral state.

Results

We estimated a minimum 287 separate introductions (median, range 244-320) into Washington and 204 exported lineages (range 188-227) of SARS-CoV-2 out of Washington. Introductions began in mid-January and peaked on March 29, 2020. Lineages with the Spike D614G variant accounted for the majority (88%) of introductions. Overall, 61% (range 55-65%) of introductions into Washington likely originated from a source elsewhere within the US, while the remaining 39% (range 35-45%) likely originated from outside of the US. Intra-state transmission accounted for 65% and 28% of introductions into eastern and western Washington, respectively.

Conclusions

There is phylogenetic evidence that the SARS-CoV-2 epidemic in Washington is continually seeded by a large number of introductions, and that there was significant inter- and intra-state transmission. Due to incomplete sampling our data underestimate the true number of introductions.
Inactive disease in lupus patients is linked to autoantibodies to type-I interferons that normalize blood IFNα and B cell subsets
Authors: Menon Madhvi , Bradford Hannah F. , Haljasmagi Liis , Vanker Martti , Peterson Pärt , Wincup Chris , Abida Rym , Gonzalez Raquel Fernandez , Bondet Vincent , Duffy Darragh , Isenberg David A. , Kisand Kai , Mauri Claudia
Published: April 2021

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is characterized by a prominent increase in expression of type-I interferon (IFN)-regulated genes in 50-75% of patients. Here we investigate the presence of autoantibodies (auto-Abs) against type I IFN in SLE patients and their possible role in controlling disease severity. We report that out of 491 SLE patients, 66 had detectable anti-IFNα-auto-Abs. The presence of neutralizing anti-IFNα-auto-Abs correlates with lower levels of circulating IFNα protein, inhibition of IFN down-stream signalling molecules and gene signatures and with an inactive global disease score. Previously reported B cell frequency abnormalities, found to be involved in SLE pathogenesis, including increased levels of immature, double negative and plasmablast B cell populations were partially normalized in patients with neutralising anti-IFNα-auto-Abs compared to other patient groups. We also show that sera from SLE patients with neutralising anti-IFNα-auto-Abs biasesin vitroB cell differentiation towards classical memory phenotype, while sera from patients without anti-IFNα-Abs drives plasmablasts differentiation. Our findings support a role for neutralising anti-IFNα-auto-Abs in controlling SLE pathogenesis and highlight their potential efficacy as novel therapy.
Vision-force guided precise robotic assembly for 2.5D components in a semistructured environment
Authors: Kim Boyoung , Choi Minyong , Son Seung-Woo , Yun Deokwon , Yoon Sukjune
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Many manufacturing sites require precision assembly. Particularly, similar to cell phones, assembly at the sub-mm scale is not easy, even for humans. In addition, the system should assemble each part with adequate force and avoid breaking the circuits with excessive force. The purpose of this study is to assemble high precision components with relatively reasonable vision devices compared to previous studies.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents a vision-force guided precise assembly system using a force sensor and two charge coupled device (CCD) cameras without an expensive 3-dimensional (3D) sensor or computer-aided design model. The system accurately estimates 6 degrees-of-freedom (DOF) poses from a 2D image in real time and assembles parts with the proper force.

Findings

In this experiment, three connectors are assembled on a printed circuit board. This system obtains high accuracy under 1 mm and 1 degree error, which shows that this system is effective.

Originality/value

This is a new method for sub-mm assembly using only two CCD cameras and one force sensor.
Three-dimensional trans-Sasakian manifolds and solitons
Authors: Chaubey Sudhakar Kumar , De Uday Chand
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The authors set the goal to find the solution of the Eisenhart problem within the framework of three-dimensional trans-Sasakian manifolds. Also, they prove some results of the Ricci solitons, η-Ricci solitons and three-dimensional weakly  symmetric trans-Sasakian manifolds. Finally, they give a nontrivial example of three-dimensional proper trans-Sasakian manifold.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors have used the tensorial approach to achieve the goal.

Findings

A second-order parallel symmetric tensor on a three-dimensional trans-Sasakian manifold is a constant multiple of the associated Riemannian metric g.

Originality/value

The authors declare that the manuscript is original and it has not been submitted to any other journal for possible publication.
Association between fund attributes and fund's performance: a panel data approach
Authors: Singh Anurag Bhadur , Tandon Priyanka
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The present study tries to explore the various fund attributes that influence the mutual fund performance. Further, study examined the effect of mutual fund attributes namely, Net Asset Value (NAV), Portfolio turnover ratio (PTR), fund size (AUM), expense ratio (ExpR) and fund age (Age) on mutual fund's performance using gross return and risk-adjusted performance measures.

Design/methodology/approach

The study evaluated balanced panel data (short panel) comprising 81 Indian equity mutual fund schemes for the period of 2013–2019. The study estimated relationship between fund attributes (Net asset value, Portfolio turnover ratio, Fund age, fund size and Expense ratio) and fund performance (using gross return and risk-adjusted performance measures), through panel data regression using fixed-effects model as suggested by Hausman specification test on transformed data (due to high multicollinearity), with cluster-robust estimators due to the presence of heteroskedasticity in the model.

Findings

The findings of the study suggested that using gross return as fund performance measure, PTR, NAV, AUM, Age exhibit significant relationship with the fund performance whereas using risk-adjusted performance measures (Treynor ratio and Jensen alpha) NAV and ExpR significantly influences the fund performance. Identification of the significant relationship between fund characteristics and fund performance offers valuable insights to the investors and fund managers for rationally managing their portfolio with the ultimate objective of the wealth maximization.

Research limitations/implications

The study considered only 81 equity mutual fund schemes. Some of the data were not available at the time of the study due to the policy of the company. The present study contributes significantly in examining the expected association between fund attributes and fund performance in the context of Indian mutual fund industry where this relationship were explored less.

Practical implications

The findings of the present study will help the investors to take the rational investment decision with the ultimate objective of maximum return with minimal risk. The findings also offer significant germane to the stakeholders in making rational decision-making process.

Originality/value

There is dearth of study concerning the relationship between mutual fund characteristics and fund performance with respect to Indian mutual fund industry. Therefore, study provides valuable insights to the area of the portfolio selection and management with respect to Indian mutual funds.
Chemsex, identity processes and coping among gay and bisexual men
Authors: Jaspal Rusi
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Chemsex constitutes a significant public health concern among gay and bisexual men (GBM). Using the identity process theory, this study focuses on GBM’s motivations for engaging in chemsex and the functions that the practice performs for constructing a positive sense of self and for coping with psychological stress.

Design/methodology/approach

Sixteen GBM were interviewed, and the qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Findings

Individuals reported facing various stressors, such as homonegativity, rejection and HIV stigma, which were threatening for self-esteem and distinctiveness. There was habitual use of deflection (e.g. denial and self-concealment) for coping with these stressors. Chemsex enabled some interviewees to engage in more elaborate forms of deflection, such as transient depersonalization, compartmentalization and fantasy.

Originality/value

In contrast to the risk-focused analyses of chemsex, this study provides a novel identity-based approach to understanding GBM’s motivations for engaging in chemsex and focuses on the functions that chemsex may perform for identity processes.
Student engagement and perceived gains in transnational education in Ghana
Authors: Owusu-Agyeman Yaw , Amoakohene Gertrude
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Following recent calls for partner institutions to address the seeming weaknesses in transnational education (TNE) delivery especially in host institutions, this article was developed to generate new insights into how student engagement could explain perceived gains in TNE in a host university in Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative research design was used to gather and analyse data from students (n = 197) who were enrolled in different masters' programmes with three different TNE partners from Europe. We relied on a survey to collect data from participants who were sampled by way of simple random sampling method. Consequently, the data was analysed using structural equation modelling.

Findings

Results revealed that the psychological, behavioural and sociocultural perspectives of student engagement have positive effect on students' perceived gains in TNE. Across the findings, student–lecturer engagement, student' assessment, students' sense of belonging and peer engagement demonstrated strong positive effect on students' perceived gains in TNE. The study further revealed that a supportive campus environment and cross-cultural interaction among students enhance students' sense of belonging.

Originality/value

The findings of this article add to an emerging body of literature that suggest that student engagement provides rich information for enhancing the experiences of students who enrol in TNE programmes. Additionally, by integrating supportive campus environment as part of the multidimensional construct which has not been addressed in previous TNE student engagement literature, this shows the significance of institutional structures and commitment to supporting student engagement.
Brokers’ list price setting in an auction context
Authors: Hungria-Gunnelin Rosane , Kopsch Fredrik , Enegren Carl Johan
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The role of list price is often discussed in a narrative describing sellers’ preferences or sellers’ price expectations. This paper aims to investigate a set of list price strategies that real estate brokers have available to influence the outcome of the sale, which may be many times self-serving.

Design/methodology/approach

By analyzing real estate brokers’ arguments on the choice of the list price level, a couple of hypotheses are formulated with regard to different expected outcomes that depend on the list price. This study empirically tests two hypotheses for the underlying incentives in the choice of list price from the real estate broker’s perspective: lower list price compared to market value leads to the higher sales price, lower list price compared to market value leads to a quicker sale. To investigate the two hypotheses, this paper adopts different methodological frameworks: H1 is tested by running a classical hedonic model, while H2 is tested through a duration model. This study further tests the hypotheses by splitting the full sample into two different price segments: above and below the median list price.

Findings

The results show that H1 is rejected for the full sample and for the two sub-samples. That is, contrary to the common narrative among brokers that underpricing leads to a higher sales price, underpricing lower sales price. H2, however, receives support for the full sample and for the two sub-samples. The latter result points to that brokers may be tempted to recommend a list price significantly below the expected selling price to minimize their effort while showing a high turnover of apartments.

Originality/value

Although there are a large number of previous studies analyzing list price strategies in the housing market, this paper is one of the few empirical studies that address the effect of list price choice level on auction outcomes of non-distressed housing sales.
Adverse perinatal outcomes of intimate partner violence during pregnancy
Authors: Afkhamzadeh Abdorrahim , Rahmani Khaled , Yaghubi Rojin , Ghadrdan Mahsa , Faraji Obeidollah
Published: April 2021

Purpose

This study aims to conduct to determine the adverse perinatal outcomes of intimate partner violence (IPV) during pregnancy in Kurdistan, Iran.

Design/methodology/approach

In a prospective cohort study, 1,080 pregnant women were categorized into 433 and 647 women, respectively, exposed and unexposed to IPV followed by 48 h post-delivery. The values of incidence rate, relative risk and corresponding 95% confidence interval were calculated for interesting outcomes.

Findings

There was a statistically significant association between IPV exposure during pregnancy and perinatal mortality, pre-term birth (PTB), intra uterine growth restriction (IUGR), premature rupture of membranes (PROM), placental abruption and low birth weight (LBW).

Social implications

Iran is a developing country with a mosaic of different ethnicities and cultures. It seems that the less developed regions of Iran, such as Kurdistan, are also culturally different from most other regions of Iran. Based on a systematic review study, the prevalence of domestic violence is estimated to be 66% (CI 95%: 55–77) in the general population of Iran. This value was 75% (CI 95%: 56–94) in western Iran, the geographic area of the study, and higher than other parts of the country. IPV during pregnancy can result in many adverse outcomes for mothers and children.

Originality/value

According to the results of this study, the occurrence of prenatal mortality, PTB, IUGR, PROM, placental abruption and LBW was significantly higher in pregnant women exposed to IPV during pregnancy compared with unexposed women. Strategies such as training the skills needed for health system staff to identify female victims of violence, counseling, treatment and referral to related specialized centers are suggested.
Measuring technological uncertainty and technological complexity: scale development and an assessment of reliability and validity
Authors: Jilke Sebastian
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Technological uncertainty and technological complexity are the two dominant characteristics of new product development (NPD) projects that have a negative influence on NPD performance, relying on a strong theoretical argumentation based on organizational information processing theory. The purpose of this study is the development of reliable and valid scales for the measurement of technological uncertainty and technological complexity, especially in the context of the discontinuous technological change of digitization.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses material from 44 in-depth interviews, which has been transferred into a questionnaire, and survey data from 166 respondents from the German automotive industry in charge of the development and production of electric and electronic technologies (including software). In this context, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses are used to test the developed scales for reliability and validity.

Findings

In this context, it can be stated that the developed scales affirm reliability and validity sufficiently. Interestingly, novelty, regarded as key item for measuring technological uncertainty, has to be dropped, as the factor loadings are under the cut-off of 0.40. Moreover, resulting items for measuring technological uncertainty and technological complexity do not deviate significantly from those discussed in previous study before the discontinuous technological change of digitization occurred.

Originality/value

This paper provides value for the discussion on how to measure technological uncertainty and technological complexity, especially in times of radical technological changes.
How does reverse factoring affect operating performance? An event study of Chinese manufacturing firms
Authors: Shou Yongyi , Shao Jinan , Wang Weijiao
Published: April 2021

Purpose

As a popular supply chain finance (SCF) strategy, reverse factoring has been widely adopted by buyer firms. However, the extant literature provides scant empirical evidence on the performance effect of reverse factoring. The purpose of this study is to seek to narrow this gap by empirically examining the relationship between reverse factoring and operating performance and the contingency conditions of this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a sample of 167 announcements of reverse factoring implementation made by publicly listed Chinese manufacturing firms between 2014 and 2018, this paper employs a long-term event study approach to analyze the operating performance effect of reverse factoring as well as the moderating effects of production and innovation capabilities.

Findings

The event study results indicate that reverse factoring has a positive effect on buyer firms' operating performance in terms of cost efficiency and operating margin. In addition, both production and innovation capabilities positively moderate the relationship between reverse factoring and operating margin. However, neither of them moderates the relationship between reverse factoring and cost efficiency.

Originality/value

This is the first study that empirically examines the impact of reverse factoring on operating performance based on secondary data. Furthermore, it sheds light on the SCF literature by providing insights into the contingency effects of production and innovation capabilities, which also extends our understanding of the application of extended resource-based view in SCF research.
Examining the link between Halal supply chain management and sustainability
Authors: Khan Mohd Imran , Haleem Abid , Khan Shahbaz
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Halal supply chain management (HSCM) is an emerging research area and is in the early stage of evolution. This study aims to identify 11 critical factors towards effective management of a Halal supply chain (HSC) and provides a framework for the HSCM by evaluating Halal practices' impact on sustainability performance measures empirically.

Design/methodology/approach

A structured questionnaire-based survey has been carried out to collect data for analysis. The statistical analysis is accomplished by exploiting merits of factor analysis and structural equation modelling (SEM).

Findings

The results imply that out of 11 critical factors, nine factors on effective management of the HSC are statistically significant, and impacts of two critical factors are positive but statistically insignificant. In the structural model, the path coefficient of all success indicators are positive and statistically significant. In terms of the path coefficient of sustainable performance measures of HSC, all three dimensions, economic, environmental and social, are positive and statistically significant.

Research limitations/implications

The research extends Halal and supply chain management's literature by proposing Halal as a standard quality control system, as it focuses on wholesome consumption. Effective management of the HSC is positively related to the firms' sustainable performance, thus helping managers make the organisation sustainable in the long term.

Practical implications

The research extends the literature of Halal and supply chain management by proposing Halal as a standard quality control system, which focuses on wholesome consumption. Effective management of the HSC is positively related to the sustainable performance of the firms, thus helps managers in making the organisation sustainable in the long term.

Originality/value

The result of the study underlines that sustainable performance measures are embedded in HSCM. This research develops a new paradigm in the research of HSCM and sustainability.
Modeling the supply chain finance (SCF) barriers of Indian SMEs using BWM framework
Authors: Garg Chandra Prakash , Kashav Vishal
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The presence of barriers in the supply chain finance (SCF) of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) cripples the productivity and efficiency of SMEs and makes it challenging to execute strategies. SCF barriers can be internal and external which tend to impede the desired performance and profitability of the SMEs. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to discern the possible SCF barriers and analyze the criticality of the barriers to understand how they impact on the SMEs market of India.

Design/methodology/approach

This study proposes a novel hybrid approach called best worst method (BWM) to evaluate the discerned barriers. BWM technique is espoused to appraise the SCF barriers, so that the decision-makers can rationally comprehend the reason behind dominance of one barrier over other. Although such an assessment may possibly vary for different industries, that is why proposed approach is generic in nature and can be applied in real-world cases. The robustness of the suggested model is also assessed through sensitivity analysis.

Findings

SCF barriers are identified through extensive literature review and inputs from the industry. The results derived through BWM approach concludes that the “Financial Barriers” are censorious and foremost inhibitors for SMEs to flourish, therefore, require special attention by the top management. Likewise, “Supply and Suppliers Barriers” are ranked second, conversely, “Market and Policy Related Barriers” are found least critical in nature in SMEs of India.

Research limitations/implications

This work is specific to SCF barriers and other barriers have not been touched upon. The study is based on expert panel opinion for seeking information which is restricted to Indian context, as the members of the expert panel belong to same geography.

Practical implications

This research could aid decision-makers and strategists to comprehend the deep-rooted initiatives to achieve a comprehensive implication of SCF across SC network. By assessing SCF barriers, this study helps SMEs to understand their shortfalls and in answering the pertinent question of how to gain excellence in this intensely competitive market.

Originality/value

SMEs are considered as engines of economic development worldwide. India too is striving for increasing the growth and development of SMEs in every aspect, to gain operational excellence, to make profits or employment generation but presence of SCF barriers makes it difficult to achieve this in Indian SMEs. Therefore, it is imperative to analyze the criticality of the SCF barriers to understand how they impact on SMEs market of India. The paper illustrates the modeling of SCF barriers among SMEs using BWM approach, exhibiting how comprehending barriers can improvise productivity and efficiency of the SCs in SMEs.
Online hijab purchase intention: the influence of the Coronavirus outbreak
Authors: Sumarliah Eli , Khan Safeer Ullah , Khan Ikram Ullah
Published: April 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the effects of the Coronavirus outbreak and the subjective norm and attitude on shopper’s intentions to purchase Hijab online. It hypothesises the influences of the Coronavirus outbreak as situational determinants, which include the place accessibility (e.g. the shutting of physical Hijab stores) and stores environment (e.g. well-being risks in physical shops, online shopping movement and extra marketing attempts from online Hijab stores through the outbreak).

Design/methodology/approach

Structured questionnaires were retrieved from 366 female Muslim shoppers, both wearing and not wearing Hijab. ADANCO 2.0.1 programming and PLS-SEM were applied in empirical investigation.

Findings

The results on direct relationships reveal that the Coronavirus outbreak situational determinants including place accessibility (ACCESS) and store environment (ENVIRO) and shopper’s attitude towards online Hijab purchase (ATTITU) are strong predictors of online Hijab purchase intention (ONLINE). At the same time, the subjective norm (SUBJEC) predicts ATTITU. The indirect mediation between SUBJEC on ONLINE was also confirmed.

Practical implications

These discoveries would help the Hijab business players, i.e. online sellers, retailers and marketers to increase their web pages’ quality and marketing efforts.

Originality/value

The research is an initial concept and empirical evidence investigating the Coronavirus outbreak’s situational influences and the effects of attitude and subjective norm on shoppers’ intentions to purchase Hijab online.
Roundup causes high levels of mortality following contact exposure in bumble bees
Authors: Straw Edward A. , Carpentier Edward N. , Brown Mark J. F.
Published: April 2021

Pollinators underpin global food production, but they are suffering significant declines across the world. Pesticides are thought to be important drivers of these declines. Herbicides are the most widely applied type of pesticides and are broadly considered ‘bee safe’ by regulatory bodies who explicitly allow their application directly onto foraging bees. We aimed to test the mortality effects of spraying the world's most popular herbicide brand (Roundup®) directly onto bumble bees Bombus terrestris audax.

We used three Roundup® products, the consumer products Roundup® Ready‐To‐Use and Roundup® No Glyphosate, the agricultural product Roundup® ProActive, as well as another herbicide with the same active ingredient (glyphosate), Weedol®. Label recommended pesticide concentrations were applied to the bees using a Roundup® Ready‐To‐Use spray bottle.

Bees exhibited 94% mortality with Roundup® Ready‐To‐Use® and 30% mortality with Roundup® ProActive®, over 24 hr. Weedol® did not cause significant mortality, demonstrating that the active ingredient, glyphosate, is not the cause of the mortality. The 96% mortality caused by Roundup® No Glyphosate supports this conclusion. Dose‐dependent mortality caused by Roundup® Ready‐To‐Use, further confirms its acute toxicity. Roundup® products caused comprehensive matting of bee body hair, suggesting that surfactants, or other co‐formulants in the Roundup® products, may cause death by incapacitating the gas exchange system.

These mortality results demonstrate that Roundup® products pose a significant hazard to bees, in both agricultural and urban systems, and that exposure of bees to them should be limited.

Synthesis and applications. Surfactants, or other co‐formulants, in herbicides and other pesticides may contribute to global bee declines. We recommend that, as a precautionary measure until co‐formulant identities are made public, label guidelines for all pesticides be altered to explicitly prohibit application to plants when bees are likely to be foraging on them. As current regulatory topical exposure toxicity testing inadequately assesses toxicity of herbicide products, we call for pesticide companies to release the full list of ingredients for each pesticide formulation, as lack of access to this information hampers research to determine safe exposure levels for beneficial insects in agro‐ecosystems.
The effects of the Tripartite Intervention on students’ attitudes towards disability
Authors: Freer John R. R.
Published: April 2021

Poor attitudes towards disability held by one’s peers can negatively impact the social experiences of students with exceptionalities. Fortunately, educational intervention efforts can serve to enhance children’s attitudes towards disability. This quasi‐experimental study tested the effectiveness of the Tripartite Intervention (TI), a 12‐lesson educational intervention aimed at improving students’ attitudes towards disability. Two Grade 4 classes from a large rural school in Southwestern Ontario made up the control and experimental groups. The CATCH scale was used to measure students’ attitudes towards disability before and after the intervention. 2 × 2 mixed ANOVAs were calculated to measure the effectiveness of the intervention. There was a significant main effect for time, but a non‐significant interaction effect when global attitude scores were examined. A significant interaction effect was found, however, for the cognitive dimension. These findings indicate that the TI had an impact on how students thought about disability. Determinant factors were also examined. Having a family member was associated with more positive attitudes towards disability, whereas self‐reported gender and friendship with someone who has a disability were not. Replication studies on the effects of the TI with larger and more diverse samples are needed.
Corporate carbon accounting: a literature review of carbon accounting research from the Kyoto Protocol to the Paris Agreement
Authors: He Rong , Luo Le , Shamsuddin Abul , Tang Qingliang
Published: April 2021

This paper describes the development of and gaps in knowledge in research on carbon accounting based on a systematic review of 117 papers published in influential accounting journals between 2005 and 2018. The review shows the literature has developed into four major streams of carbon accounting: carbon disclosure, management, performance and assurance, and that carbon accounting is emerging as a distinct discipline. Finally, our paper highlights future research opportunities to improve carbon accounting, so it can play an even more important role to help business achieve the climate goals of the Paris Agreement.
Survival in stage IIB/C compared to stage IIIA rectal cancer: an Australian experience affirming that size does matter
Authors: De Robles Marie Shella , O'Neill Robert S. , Mourad Ali P. , Winn Robert , Putnis Soni , Kang Sharlyn
Published: April 2021

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most commonly diagnosed malignancies globally; however, a survival paradox has been observed unique to this malignancy. The aim of this study was to review survival outcomes of patients diagnosed with stage II and stage III rectal cancer, to determine whether a survival paradox is present in our centre and assess for patient‐related factors that can explain the observed paradox or were predictors of prognosis.

Methods

A retrospective review of data collected from 2006 to 2018 of patients diagnosed with rectal cancer in three separate centres was conducted. Percentages pertaining to patient and tumour characteristics, presentation, management and subsequent recurrence were reported. Preoperative and postoperative factors associated with survival were determined using univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Results

Stage IIB/C patients had significantly higher carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels compared to stage IIA and stage IIIA patients (P < 0.001). Stage IIB/C patients had significantly larger primary rectal tumour and were more symptomatic (i.e. rectal bleeding, altered bowel habits and obstruction) at the time of diagnosis (P = 0.007). Preoperative CEA was an independent prognostic factor for cancer‐specific survival in patients diagnosed with stage IIB/C and stage IIIA disease (P = 0.008) on multivariable analysis. Overall survival was greatest in stage IIIA disease, which was significantly greater than stage IIB/C disease.

Conclusion

This study confirms the existence of a survival paradox in patients diagnosed with CRC in an Australian tertiary centre and adds further weight to the revision of the TNM staging to provide more emphasis on the T stage.
Utility of 3D printed abdominal aortic aneurysm phantoms: a systematic review
Authors: Coles‐Black Jasamine , Bolton Damien , Robinson Domenic , Chuen Jason
Published: April 2021

Background

3D printed (3DP) abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) phantoms are emerging in the literature as an adjunct for the visualization of complex anatomy, particularly for presurgical device selection and simulation. This is the first systematic review to provide a comprehensive overview of 3DP for endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) planning and intervention, evaluating the readiness of current levels of technology for mainstream implementation.

Methods

A systematic literature search of PubMed and MEDLINE was performed as per PRISMA guidelines using the terms ‘3D Printing’, ‘AAA’ OR ‘EVAR’ and related index terms, and further relevant articles were appraised via a snowballing approach. Our last search was conducted on 14 November 2020.

Results

Twenty‐five articles were identified for critical analysis, with 14 cases or technical reports. Nineteen publications utilized 3DP AAA phantoms to aid presurgical decision making, device selection and design. Four publications explored the utility of 3DP phantoms as EVAR trainers, and one publication examined the technology as a tool for patient education. Flexible, transparent phantoms were deemed most useful; however, the cost and availability of higher end machines limited accessibility.

Conclusion

3DP phantoms have been used in EVAR to facilitate visualization of complex patient anatomy, appropriate device selection, in predicting navigational difficulties and the shape and position of endograft after deployment. These phantoms show promise in reducing known complications such as endoleak, stent graft occlusion and migration; however, larger scale prospective studies are required to validate its impacts on patient outcomes and cost savings to the healthcare system.
Effect of rurality and ethnicity in severity and outcomes in patients with acute pancreatitis
Authors: Birrell Lachlan , McGuinness Matthew , Elliott Brodie , Harmston Christopher
Published: April 2021

Background

Previous studies have demonstrated a high incidence of acute pancreatitis (AP) in New Zealand, with Maori having the highest reported incidence worldwide. It is possible that barriers to healthcare exist for rural and Maori patients, leading to poorer outcomes. The aim of this study is to compare differences in severity and outcomes in patients with AP with regards to rurality and ethnicity.

Methods

Multicentre retrospective study of all adults aged >16 years who were admitted to any hospital with AP in Northland between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2018 was performed. Pancreatitis severity was classified using the Revised Atlanta classification. The primary outcome of interest was the difference in severity of pancreatitis with regards to rurality and ethnicity. Secondary outcomes of interest included clinical outcomes, aetiology of AP and re‐presentation rates.

Results

A total of 468 patients were included. There was no difference found between rural and urban or Maori and non‐Maori patients with regards to disease severity, length of stay, mortality or intensive care unit admission rate. A significant difference in aetiology was found between Maori and non‐Maori patients, with a higher rate of gallstone pancreatitis in Maori. There was no difference in local complications or number of re‐presentations between groups.

Conclusion

This study showed no difference in the severity or outcomes of AP across rural and urban patients in the Northland region of New Zealand. Secondary outcomes were broadly comparable between groups, with a higher rate of gallstone pancreatitis found in Maori compared to non‐Maori.
New roles for desmin in the maintenance of muscle homeostasis
Authors: Agnetti Giulio , Herrmann Harald , Cohen Shenhav
Published: April 2021

Desmin is the primary intermediate filament (IF) of cardiac, skeletal, and smooth muscle. By linking the contractile myofibrils to the sarcolemma and cellular organelles, desmin IF contributes to muscle structural and cellular integrity, force transmission, and mitochondrial homeostasis. Mutations in desmin cause myofibril misalignment, mitochondrial dysfunction, and impaired mechanical integrity leading to cardiac and skeletal myopathies in humans, often characterized by the accumulation of protein aggregates. Recent evidence indicates that desmin filaments also regulate proteostasis and cell size. In skeletal muscle, changes in desmin filament dynamics can facilitate catabolic events as an adaptive response to a changing environment. In addition, post‐translational modifications of desmin and its misfolding in the heart have emerged as key determinants of homeostasis and disease. In this review, we provide an overview of the structural and cellular roles of desmin and propose new models for its novel functions in preserving the homeostasis of striated muscles.
Multilocation changes in soil carbon stocks from sugarcane straw removal for bioenergy production in Brazil
Authors: Tenelli Sarah , Bordonal Ricardo Oliveira , Cherubin Maurício Roberto , Cerri Carlos Eduardo Pellegrino , Carvalho João Luís Nunes
Published: April 2021

Sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) straw has been identified as a valuable asset for bioenergy production, but it is also a primary carbon input for sustaining soil resources. Therefore, excessive removal of this crop residue can potentially decrease soil organic carbon (SOC) and have negative environmental consequences. Most crop residue management studies focus on site‐specific responses which are important, but do not provide comprehensive assessments across the multiple edaphoclimatic conditions needed by decision makers to guide sustainable sugarcane straw management. Temporal modifications in SOC stocks induced by straw removal were quantified in 10 field experiments located in south‐central of Brazil. Each field experiment was arranged in a randomized block design with four replications, including four straw removal rates: total (TR), high (HR), low (LR) and no removal (NR). Soil sampling was performed to a 30 cm depth at the trial establishment (baseline) and after 2 and 4 consecutive years of straw removal. The data indicate that about 19% and 25% of the C added via straw were retained in areas of sandy and clay soils, respectively, and show that excessive removal rates depleted SOC stocks across the evaluated sites. Furthermore, regardless of removal rate, maintenance of straw on sandy soils was not sufficient to sustain SOC stocks, which were depleted by 2.3, 1.9, 1.5, and 1.4 Mg ha−1 year−1 for the TR, HR, LR, and NR. Our measured data provide scientific information to support policy and management decisions for straw‐derived bioenergy in Brazil. They also suggest straw removal from clay soils will be less deleterious to SOC stocks than from sandy soils, where removal should be avoided.
Engaging in musical activities and the risk of dementia in older adults: A longitudinal study from the Japan gerontological evaluation study
Authors: Arafa Ahmed , Eshak Ehab S , Shirai Kokoro , Iso Hiroyasu , Kondo Katsunori
Published: April 2021

Aim

Leisure cognitive activities are suggested to reduce the risk of dementia. Herein, we aimed to investigate the prospective association between engaging in different musical activities and the risk of dementia among Japanese older adults.

Methods

Longitudinal data of 52 601 participants aged ≥65 years from the Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study were analyzed. Musical activities in the form of playing a musical instrument, practicing karaoke and choir or folk singing were assessed using a questionnaire, while dementia was diagnosed using the standardized dementia scale of the long‐term care insurance system. The Cox regression was used to obtain the hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for incident dementia according to engagement in musical activities.

Results

Compared with engaging in no musical activities at all, the hazard ratios engaging in one and more than one musical activity, after 5.8 years of a median follow‐up period, were 0.94 (95% CI 0.82–1.07) and 0.59 (95% CI 0.32–1.10) in men versus 0.79 (95% CI 0.69–0.90) and 0.89 (95% CI 0.63–1.26) in women, respectively. Playing a musical instrument and practicing karaoke, compared with no musical activities at all, were associated with a faintly decreased risk of dementia in men and a significantly decreased risk of dementia in women; hazard ratios 0.70 (95% CI 0.45–1.02) and 0.90 (95% CI 0.79, 1.04) in men versus 0.75 (95% CI 0.58–0.98) and 0.77 (95% CI 0.68–0.89) in women, respectively.

Conclusion

Engaging in musical activities, especially playing a musical instrument and practicing karaoke, was associated with a reduced risk of dementia among Japanese older women. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; 21: 451–457.
Basal cell carcinoma and dermal nevi of the face: comparison of localization and dermatoscopic features
Authors: Conforti Claudio , Giuffrida Roberta , Agozzino Marina , Cannavó Patrizia Serafinella , Dianzani Caterina , di Meo Nicola , Nardello Carlotta , Neagu Nicoleta , Guarneri Fabrizio , Zalaudek Iris
Published: April 2021

Background

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and dermal nevi located on the face can easily be confused on clinical examination. Little is known about the different preferential localizations of these entities, and a systematic analysis of dermatoscopic features for differential diagnosis is lacking.

Methods

Clinical and dermatoscopic images of BCCs and dermal nevi were retrospectively evaluated to study their relation to various face anatomical areas, BCC histotype, classic and nonclassic dermatoscopic BCC criteria, as well as typical dermatoscopic criteria for dermal nevi.

Results

We examined 118 BCCs and 77 dermal nevi, all having histopathological confirmation. BCCs were most frequently located on the lateral side of the forehead (12.7%), nasal dorsum (10.2%) and nasal ala (9.3%), while dermal nevi were found predominantly on the buccal area (11.8%), scalp (11.8%), and perioral region (10.8%). The prevalent dermatoscopic criteria for BCC were the classic arborizing vessels (94.1%) and arborizing microvessels (89%). The most common BCC histotype on the face was sclerodermiform (47.5%), followed by nodular (28%) and superficial (24.6%).

Conclusions

This study shows that BCCs are preferentially located on the lateral side of the forehead, nasal dorsum and nasal ala, while dermal nevi of the face are preponderantly located on the buccal area, scalp, and perioral region. The dermatoscopic features confirmed the frequency of classic and nonclassic criteria for BCCs already demonstrated in other studies. No significant site‐specific features were observed for either BCCs or dermal nevi.