bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The dark side of hyperconnectivity in the accounting profession
Authors: Mansour Sari , Mohanna Dima , Tremblay Diane-Gabrielle
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to understand the antecedents and consequences of using the smartphone and/or tablet by professional accountants for business purposes outside of regular working hours. More specifically, this paper aims to test the direct relationships between, on the one hand, work intensification and the use of smartphone and/or tablet and work-family conflict (WFC) and on the other hand, the indirect effect of the use of smartphones and/or tablet between work intensification and WFC.

Design/methodology/approach

This research was based on a cross-sectional design and quantitative method. The structural equation method was used to test the direct effect of work intensification on smartphone and/or tablet use and WFC. As for the mediation effect of smartphone and/or tablet use between work intensification and WFC, it was tested by the method of indirect effects based on a bootstrap analysis. The statistical treatments were carried out with the AMOS software v.24.

Findings

The results of the study indicate that work intensification increases the use of smartphones and/or tablets outside of working hours and that this variable increases the intensification of WFC through a process of mediation.

Research limitations/implications

This research does not take into account the moderating variables that can intervene in the model. For example, the duration of use of the smartphone, the origin of emails or messages (supervisors, customers and colleagues), the types of tasks performed outside working hours and the period of use (evening, weekend and holidays) could have significant effects on the different relationships tested in the model. Furthermore, we had all the positions held by the respondents (for example, chief financial officer, director, vice-president, partners, senior managers, management accountant, auditor, agents, analysts, accountants) grouped into one category and this may have an impact on results.

Practical implications

The results could be quite interesting for governments and organizations interested in advantage of the technology while reducing its disadvantages. In particular, it is important for accounting firms, which are big users of new technologies (e.g. Smart software and analytics). Indeed, both companies and professional accountants must clearly communicate their expectations regarding the use of technology for business purposes outside normal working hours.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to examine the effect of work intensification and the use of smartphones and/or tablets, on WFC.
The effects of implicit firm theory on customer engagement and firm-related judgments
Authors: Leary R. Bret , Burnham Thomas , Montford William
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to introduce the implicit firm theory, distinguishing between the belief that firms can (incremental firm theory) or cannot (entity firm theory) readily change in response to marketplace demands. It is proposed and shown, that firm theory beliefs influence customer-engagement attitudes and intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

Study 1 tests the relationship between firm theory, self-theory and knowledge-sharing attitudes. Study 2a tests differences between incremental and entity firm theorists in response to firm failure. Study 2b examines the relationship between firm theory and blame attributions on post-failure loyalty. Study 3 explores the effect of firm theory on perceptions of control and blame attributions following repeated firm failures.

Findings

Study 1 shows firm theory influences consumer knowledge-sharing attitudes beyond the effect of self-theory. Study 2a shows incremental firm theorists are more likely to remain loyal to a firm following failure and less likely to share negative word-of-mouth. Study 2b shows that blame attributions mediate the relationship between firm theory and loyalty intentions, with incremental theorists ascribing less blame. Study 3 shows incremental firm theorists significantly increase blame following multiple failures, while entity firm theorists do not.

Research limitations/implications

Results are based on scenario-based surveys and experimental methods; their applicability in more complex real-world customer-firm relationships warrants additional study.

Practical implications

Firms should account for a customer’s firm theory in their communications, emphasizing situational factors to reduce post-failure blame among incremental firm theorists.

Originality/value

Establishes that consumers hold beliefs regarding the malleability of firm traits, which influence their firm engagement intentions.
How the smart governance model shapes cities? Cases from Europe
Authors: Demirel Demokaan , Mülazımoğlu Maksud Emre
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This study aims to discuss the transformational effect of the smart governance concept, which is one of the complementary elements of the smart city concept and to explain the change in governance structures according to the developments in information and communication technology.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the case study as one of the qualitative research methods is preferred, and smart city models of Barcelona, Amsterdam, Kocaeli and Ankara are examined.

Findings

In the research, scientific studies in the academic literature were evaluated according to the content analysis, and as a result of this analysis, the cities examined were grouped as “beginner,” “medium” and “advanced.” In the group, the characteristics of smart cities and the services they offer were taken into account. In this context, smart governance methods and their transformational effects are analyzed.

Originality/value

The most important contribution of this study to the literature is to identify the important characteristics of developed and successful smart city initiatives and to encourage their application to other developing world cities as a best practices model.
India – an untapped market for halal products
Authors: Hassan Yusuf , Sengupta Anirban
Published: September 2021

Purpose

India has an over-180-million Muslim population, which makes it an ideal marketplace for halal products. However, not much research has been done to understand the opportunities and challenges pertaining to halal business in India. The purpose of this study is to explore and examine how halal products are perceived by the Indian consumer and how these products are creating values for a larger consumer base.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper opted for an exploratory study using an inductive approach. To understand the peculiarities of the issue, the authors also used the case-research approach to develop a broader understanding of the topic.

Findings

Findings of this study show that the market and consumers are increasingly becoming more aware of halal products in India. Further, the demand for such products is no longer limited to Muslims. Halal products have also become an attractive option for consumers, as they are also addressing safety and environmental concerns. This is an essential factor for a flourishing certification business in India.

Research limitations/implications

A limitation of this study is a quantitative study which could have been conducted to confirm the findings of this research. Further, the sample was limited to participants in the age group of 21-30 years. Older people might share a different perspective on halal products because they are believed to be more experienced and socially conscious. Further, our cases were limited to a certifying agency and cosmetics agencies.

Practical implications

One important implication of this study is that it reaffirms the success of Islamic branding in the India context. Though this research was carried out on a limited scale, it opens up opportunities to examine the halal phenomenon in more detail. Acceptability of halal products among non-Muslims is a sign of growing tolerance among different communities to accept and adopt culture and practices of a different religion in their daily living.

Social implications

The authors have observed that halal products and Islamic branding as a whole can positively help in reshaping the image of Islam across the globe. Observations such as identifying halal products being eco-friendly reflects the increased sensitivity among the consumers in the developing nations, which were earlier a behavior common among the Westerners.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no other study has been done to explore the halal product market and consumers’ perception in the Indian context. This is particularly an important contribution because India is a home for over 180 million Muslims and a marketplace worth trillions of dollars. Further, past research in the area of religious marketing was limited to conceptual papers. This paper is an attempt to re-initiate discussion through empirical studies on Islamic branding in the emerging economies context.
Family ownership and cooperative R&D: the moderating effect of political ties
Authors: Dong Feng , Wang Xiao , Chen Jiawen
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impact of family ownership on cooperative research and development (R&D). Drawing on the ability and willingness paradox framework in family business research, the authors suggest that family ownership influences cooperative R&D via two opposing mechanisms: power concentration and wealth concentration. It also deepens the current understanding of the boundary conditions of informal institutions for the impact of family ownership on cooperative R&D by investigating the moderating role of political ties.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors analyze a panel of 610 Chinese manufacturing family firms and 2,127 firm-year observations from 2009 to 2017. Fixed effects regression analysis is used to test the hypotheses, with the two-stage Heckman model to address sample selection bias.

Findings

The research findings indicate that family ownership has an inverted U-shaped relationship with cooperative R&D and political ties moderate the relationship in such a way that the inverted U-shaped relationship will be steeper in firms with more political ties than in firms with fewer political ties.

Practical implications

Family ownership influences firms’ cooperative R&D through the positive effect of power concentration and the negative effect of wealth concentration. Family owners should, therefore, take advantage of concentrated power, for instance, by adapting quickly and committing sufficient resources to cooperative R&D opportunities, while controlling path-dependent relationship development caused by concentrated family wealth. The effect of political ties on the relationship between family ownership and cooperative R&D is found to be a double-edged sword.

Originality/value

This study extends the ability and willingness paradox framework and provides novel insights into cooperative R&D in family businesses by integrating power concentration and wealth concentration associated with family ownership. Moreover, this study provides a contingency perspective and introduces the moderating role of political ties in shaping cooperative R&D in family firms.
Innovation capabilities in agribusiness: evidence from Brazil
Authors: Leo Ricardo Machado , Camboim Guilherme Freitas , Avila Ariane Mello Silva , Reichert Fernanda Maciel , Zawislak Paulo Antônio
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to identify the winning combination of innovation capabilities for selected Brazilian agribusiness firms along different value chain links.

Design/methodology/approach

Adopting a quantitative approach, the authors analyzed the relationship between innovation capabilities and innovative performance of 300 agribusiness firms through a multi-regression technique.

Findings

The results showed that transaction, management and development capabilities can improve agribusiness firms’ performance in underdeveloped value chains.

Research limitations/implications

For future research, the authors recommend analyzing further links such as traders and retailers to find the innovation capability for the entire agribusiness value chain.

Practical implications

Upstream firms should adopt new management techniques and tools, efficiently using their resources, while downstream firms should absorb and transform new technologies into products and processes.

Social implications

The authors suggest formulating public policies that propose the recombination of innovation capabilities to organize agribusiness firms and avoid commodity-oriented market dependence.

Originality/value

The literature on agribusiness explains innovation at the chain level, based primarily on scientific advancements rather than on innovation at the firm level. In this sense, this study provides empirical evidence that can help boost innovation in agribusiness firms.
Effect of process parameters on stress and strain of hybrid deposition and micro-rolling
Authors: Zhao Xushan , Wang Yuanxun , Wang Guilan , Li Runsheng , Zhang Haiou
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to summarize the influence law of hybrid deposited and micro-rolling (HDMR) technology on the shaping strain and residual stress. And the rolling parameters combination was further optimized to guide the actual production.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposed a three-dimensional coupled thermo-mechanical model of the HDMR process. The validated model is used to investigate the influences of rolling parameters on stress and plastic strain (the distance between the energy source and roller [De–r], the rolling compression [cr] and the friction coefficient [fr]). The orthogonal optimization of three factors and three levels was carried out. The influence of rolling parameters on the plastic strain and residual stress is analyzed.

Findings

The simulation results show that HDMR technology can effectively increase the shaping strain of the weld bead and reduce the residual tensile stress on the weld bead surface. Furthermore, the influence of rolling parameters on stress and strain is obtained by orthogonal analysis, and the corresponding optimal combination is proposed. Also, the rolling temperature significantly affects the residual stress, and the rolling reduction has a substantial effect on the plastic deformation.

Research limitations/implications

Owing to the choice of research methods, this paper failed to study microstructure evolution.

Originality/value

This paper provides a reference principle for the optimal selection of rolling parameters in HDMR.
The effect of annealing on deformation and mechanical strength of tough PLA and its application in 3D printed prosthetic sockets
Authors: Wijnbergen Diede Christine , van der Stelt Merel , Verhamme Luc Martijn
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Fused filament fabrication (FFF) using tough poly lactic acid (PLA) was determined to be the most suited method to achieve low-cost prosthetic sockets. However, improvement in the material properties is desirable to strengthen these sockets. This study aims to evaluate annealing as a potential method to improve material properties by a heat treatment of the object after 3D printing.

Design/methodology/approach

Four different annealing methods and a control group were tested according to ISO standard 527–1 and ISO standard 527–2. The four annealing methods included: oven; sand; water; and glycerol annealing. Tests were performed on longitudinal and transversal 3D printed samples. Deformation was determined on 3D printed test rings.

Findings

Annealing using an oven, sand and water resulted in a significant increase in tensile strength in longitudinally 3D printed tensile test samples. However, the tensile strength was decreased in the transversally 3D printed tensile test samples. The tensile modulus had no significant increase in the longitudinally and transversally printed samples. Sand annealing resulted in the least deformation, with a shrinkage of 2.04% of inner diameter and an increase in height of 1.99% for the horizontally annealed test rings.

Research limitations/implications

The annealing of prosthetic sockets is not recommended as a decrease in tensile strength in transversally printed tensile test samples was observed. More research is needed towards the strengthening of tough PLA in both print directions.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils the need for understanding the impact of annealing on 3D printed items intended for daily use, such as a prosthetic socket.
Two cases of Hailey‐Hailey disease effectively treated with apremilast and a review of reported cases
Authors: Yoto Ayumi , Makino Teruhiko , Mizawa Megumi , Matsui Yu , Takemoto Keita , Furukawa Fumina , Kataoka Kazuya , Nakano Hajime , Sawamura Daisuke , Shimizu Tadamichi
Published: September 2021

Hailey‐Hailey disease (HHD) is an autosomal dominant genetic disease caused by a mutation of the ATP2C1 gene. Corticosteroids, antibiotics or cyclosporine have been administered to reduce inflammation and prevent flare‐ups, but the efficacy is not always sufficient. We herein report two cases of HHD effectively treated with apremilast and review the previous literature. Patient 1 was a 28‐year‐old male and patient 2 was a 35‐year‐old female. Both patients were diagnosed with HHD based on histological and genetic analyses. Both patients were treated with oral antibiotics or topical corticosteroids, but their symptoms were refractory, therefore apremilast was administered to both patients. Two weeks later, the skin lesion of both patients was improved. No adverse reaction was observed except for mild headache in patient 2. There have been 13 reported cases of HHD treated with apremilast, including our cases. Eight cases showed a good response to apremilast, whereas five cases showed no response. There seems to be no association between the disease severity and efficacy of apremilast, although the reason remains unknown. Interestingly, an early improvement of the HHD lesion was observed in all good response cases. Although digestive symptoms, headache, and myalgia were observed as adverse events, the treatment was well‐tolerated. The accumulation of a greater number of similar cases and further research will be required. We hypothesize that apremilast may be a useful therapeutic option for skin lesions of HHD.
3D Marchenko applications: implementation and examples
Authors: Brackenhoff Joeri , Thorbecke Jan , Meles Giovanni , Koehne Victor , Barrera Diego , Wapenaar Kees
Published: September 2021

We implement the 3D Marchenko equations to retrieve responses to virtual sources inside the subsurface. For this, we require reflection data at the surface of the Earth that contain no free‐surface multiples and are densely sampled in space. The required 3D reflection data volume is very large and solving the Marchenko equations requires a significant amount of computational cost. To limit the cost, we apply floating point compression to the reflection data to reduce their volume and the loading time from disk. We apply the Marchenko implementation to numerical reflection data to retrieve accurate Green's functions inside the medium and use these reflection data to apply imaging. This requires the simulation of many virtual source points, which we circumvent using virtual plane‐wave sources instead of virtual point sources. Through this method, we retrieve the angle‐dependent response of a source from a depth level rather than of a point. We use these responses to obtain angle‐dependent structural images of the subsurface, free of contamination from wrongly imaged internal multiples. These images have less lateral resolution than those obtained using virtual point sources, but are more efficiently retrieved.
Public health and economic benefits of spotted hyenas Crocuta crocuta in a peri‐urban system
Authors: Sonawane Chinmay , Yirga Gidey , Carter Neil H.
Published: September 2021

Species that depend on anthropogenic waste for food can remove pathogens that pose health risks to humans and livestock, thereby saving lives and money. Quantifying these benefits is rare, yet can lead to innovative conservation solutions.

To assess these benefits, we examined the feeding ecology and population size of peri‐urban spotted hyenas Crocuta crocuta in Mekelle, Ethiopia. We integrated these field data into a disease transmission model to predict: (a) the number of anthrax and bovine tuberculosis (bTB) infections arising in humans and livestock from infected carcass waste and (b) the costs associated with treating these infections and losing livestock. We compared these public health and economic outcomes under two scenarios: (a) hyenas are present and (b) the counterfactual, hyenas are absent.

We estimated that hyenas annually remove 4.2% (207 tonnes) of the total carcass waste disposed of by residents and businesses in Mekelle. Furthermore, the scavenging behaviour of hyenas annually prevents five infections of anthrax and bTB in humans, and 140 infections in cattle, sheep and goats. This disease control service potentially saves USD 52,165 due to the treatment costs and livestock loss avoided.

Synthesis and applications. This human–hyena interaction in Ethiopia is evidence that large carnivores can contribute to human health and economy. To retain these benefits and maintain tolerance of hyenas, we recommend introducing education programmes to promote safe outdoor behaviour around hyenas, training watchdogs to alert residents of hyena presence, constructing bomas to protect livestock from hyena attacks, and preserving the hyenas' access to carcass waste to reduce their dependency on livestock predation. With humans and carnivores coming more frequently into contact, understanding and communicating how these species can benefit humanity will be critical to motivating human–carnivore coexistence worldwide.
Resolvin D1 prevents cadmium chloride‐induced memory loss and hippocampal damage in rats by activation/upregulation of PTEN‐induced suppression of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Shati Ali A. , El‐Kott Attalla F. , Alkhateeb Mahmoud A.
Published: September 2021

This study evaluated the protective effect of resolvin D1 (RVD1) against cadmium chloride (CdCl2)‐induced hippocampal damage and memory loss in rats and investigated if such protection is mediated by modulating the PTEN/PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. Adult male Wistar rats (n = 18/group) were divided as control, control + RVD1, CdCl2, CdCl2 + RVD1 and CdCl2 + RVD1 + bpV(pic), a PTEN inhibitor. All treatments were conducted for 4 weeks. Resolvin D1 improved the memory function as measured by Morris water maze (MWM), preserved the structure of CA1 area of the hippocampus, and increased hippocampal levels of RVD1 in the CdCl2‐treated rats. Resolvin D1 also suppressed the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), tumour necrosis factor‐α and interleukine‐6 (IL‐6), inhibited nuclear factor κB (NF‐κB) p65, stimulated levels of glutathione (GSH), manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD), and Bcl2 but reduced the expression of Bax and cleaved caspase 3 in hippocampi of CdCl2‐treated rats. Concomitantly, it stimulated levels and activity of PTEN and reduced the phosphorylation (activation) of PI3K, Akt and mTOR in hippocampi of CdCl2‐treated rats. In conclusion, RVD1 attenuates CdCl2‐induced memory loss and hippocampal damage in rats mainly by activating PTEN‐induced suppression of PI3K/Akt/mTOR, an effect that seems secondary to its’ anti‐oxidant and anti‐inflammatory potential.
Spatial changes in a macrozoobenthic community depend on restoration methods in historically squeezed coasts in a brackish lagoon
Authors: Miyamoto Yasushi , Kanaya Gen , Taru Masanori , Yoshida Takehito
Published: September 2021

The coastal shallows in the Kugushi‐ko lagoon (western Japan), were restored to mitigate the historical coastal squeeze using two different methods: sand nourishment (SN), which is commonly used worldwide, and natural deposition (ND) method, which facilitates the deposition of river‐derived sediments using local knowledge (LK) on habitat characteristics of the historically commercial Shijimi clam (Corbicula japonica). In this study, macrozoobenthic assemblage structures were examined to clarify how the different restoration methods affected them. A total of 24 taxa occurred with a predominance of molluscan species in 18 samples (two SN sites and one ND site, six sampling plots each). In the ND site, the macrozoobenthic community was dominated by reed‐associated snails and Shijimi clams, linking to a higher whole‐benthos density than SN sites. Cluster analysis identified two groups of sampling plots that had different macrozoobenthic communities, and four shallow‐water inhabiting species were detected as indicator species for one cluster involving all sampling plots at the ND site. Distance‐based redundancy analysis (dbRDA) demonstrated that water depth and reed vegetation explained the variations in assemblages. Furthermore, within the cluster, a subcluster consisting of all plots in the ND site was identified. dbRDA showed that the dominant species in the ND subcluster were associated with reed vegetation and finer grain size. The present results suggest that the ND method likely restored the reed‐vegetated shallow habitats characterizing the macrozoobenthic community structure, and that LK‐based habitat restoration practices may offer new options for restoration programs in estuarine and coastal seas.
Unplanned blood use within 24 hours of emergency department presentation: A cohort study in an ageing population
Authors: Simon Geoff I , Craswell Alison , Thom Ogilvie , Fung Yoke Lin
Published: September 2021

Objective

This research aims to elucidate drivers of blood use in an older population, with a focus on unplanned transfusions following ED presentation.

Methods

In a retrospective cohort study we examined 2015 data for ED presentations and blood use in two hospitals serving a population containing a high proportion (21%) of adults aged ≥65 years. Unplanned blood use was defined as any transfusion ≤24 h of presentation. Data were analysed by age, sex, Major Diagnostic Category, triage category and time to transfusion.

Results

A total of 5294 blood components were transfused, comprising red cells (n = 3784), fresh frozen plasma (n = 657), platelets (n = 563) and cryoprecipitate (n = 290). Men aged ≥65 years were the highest users (40%, 2107 components). Unplanned transfusions accounted for 28% (n = 1057) of annual red cell use. Of 85 014 ED presentations, 494 (0.6%) were associated with unplanned red cell transfusion. Four Major Diagnostic Categories accounted for 81% (n = 853) of unplanned red cell use: gastrointestinal (n = 375), haematology (n = 267), trauma (n = 144) and cardiovascular (n = 67). Over one‐fifth of unplanned transfusions (21%, n = 222 of 1057) were associated with ICD‐10 codes for anaemia as a reason for presentation within the Haematology Major Diagnostic Category. Adults aged ≥65 years accounted for 62% of overall red cell use and 61% of transfusions ≤24 h of presentation. Odds of unplanned red cell transfusion increased with age, peaking at odds ratio 28.5 (95% confidence interval 14.2–57.4) in those aged 85 years and above.

Conclusions

Unplanned blood use accounted for 28% of annual hospital blood consumption. Blood component use increased with age and was greatest in older men. A significant burden of anaemia treatment was identified by the ED.
Subjectivity in Performance Evaluations: A Review of the Literature*
Authors: Wick Sara
Published: September 2021

Subjectivity is an important element of employees' performance evaluations because its use can motivate employees and improve their productivity. Given this importance, it has been a prominent area of research within the management accounting literature. Using a structured approach, I review articles from 11 highly ranked accounting journals across 12 years with the objective of synthesizing and assessing the research to identify research gaps and opportunities for future research. I observe that two types of subjectivity are commonly studied: subjective performance measures and ex post discretion, across a wide range of settings. Research questions are investigated, drawing on theory from economics, psychology, and organizational behavior and using experimental, field study, survey, archival, analytical, and interview methods. My synthesis of the literature highlights many opportunities for future research to further the study of subjective performance evaluations. This study contributes to practice and accounting research by synthesizing and providing insights about the subjectivity literature as well as identifying opportunities for future research.
Readability of Accounting Disclosures: A Comprehensive Review and Research Agenda*
Authors: Gosselin Anne‐Marie , Le Maux Julien , Smaili Nadia
Published: September 2021

Understanding corporate disclosures is important for accounting researchers, as information plays a central role on financial markets. A generation of accounting and finance researchers has shown how readability of different financial and nonfinancial disclosures affects our understanding of organizational behaviors. We review 138 papers from 1950 to 2020 using the five Ws analysis method (Who, What, HoW, Why, and to Whom) developed by Culiberg and Mihelič (2017). We organize the literature into a comprehensive framework, the readability wheel, which provides an overview of existing studies, helps with understanding the complexity and issues of readability, and outlines an agenda for future research. We also use the readability wheel to discuss the evolution of these studies.
Consequences of Labor Cost Reduction Practices: A Structured Literature Review*
Authors: Matthews Kelsey
Published: September 2021

When firms face pressures to reduce costs, evidence from the field suggests that they often reduce labor costs (i.e., wages, benefits, payroll taxes). Because of the prevalence of labor cost reduction in the field, academic research has begun to investigate the consequences of management's decisions to reduce labor costs. I provide a structured literature review on the employee‐level consequences of three labor cost reduction practices: employee downsizing, furloughs, and pay cuts. My literature review synthesizes the labor cost reduction research through a lens of a discretionary management accounting decision to reduce costs and highlights opportunities for management accounting researchers to explore the consequences of labor cost reductions on employees' attitudes and behaviors. To synthesize the literature on labor cost reduction, I develop a model that proposes that management's labor cost reduction decisions, which include features of the implementation and contextual factors, influence employees' perceptions of management's and employees' attitudes and behaviors. Consistent with my model, my synthesis of the literature shows that labor cost reduction generally has negative employee‐level consequences. However, features of management's implementation of the labor cost reduction practice and contextual factors can alter employees' perceptions and mitigate these negative consequences.
The economic history of Thailand: Old debates, recent advances, and future prospects
Authors: Anamwathana Panarat , Vechbanyongratana Jessica
Published: September 2021

Despite slow development of Thai economic history scholarship, research output in the last three decades has shed new light and improved arguments on classic debates using novel primary sources and quantitative methods. This article traces the evolution of three Thai economic history debates from the late‐nineteenth and twentieth centuries: (1) factors behind Thailand's slow economic growth; (2) the reluctance of rural workers to move into urban employment; and (3) the Thai government's failure to invest in large‐scale irrigation projects. The article concludes with a discussion of current challenges facing Thai economic history research and suggestions to move the discipline forward.
Anatomy of the vertebral column, ribs and sternum in orange rumped agouti (Dasyprocta leporina Linnaeus, 1758): Structural and Functional perspectives
Authors: Sundaram Venkatesan , Jones Kegan , Mootoo Natasha , Tomar Mahendra Pratap Singh
Published: September 2021

The axial skeleton of orange rumped agouti, Dasyprocta leporina, was studied for better understanding of its locomotor behaviour. The bones from eight adult agoutis of both sexes were observed for their anatomical features and functional significance. The vertebral formula was found to be C7T12L7S5Cy5–6. The well‐developed occipital crest, caudally oriented prominent axis spine and well‐developed transverse processes from C3–C7 indicated a highly flexible neck with greater sagittal mobility. Articular facets were horizontal in anterior series while oblique in the posterior series, which enabled them to perform both lateral and sagittal movements during locomotion. The caudally directed thoracic spines, T12 as anticlinal vertebra and prominent mamillary process in the posterior series were suggestive of strong dorso‐ventral flexion/extension and rotation. The robust lumbar vertebrae, well‐developed transverse processes with cranio‐ventral extension, were the feature for powerful sagittal/dorsoventral movement. The presence of spinous processes and well‐developed transverse processes in all caudal vertebrae was an indication of a highly movable tail. The ribs were 13 pairs with first seven as sternal and six as asternal. They were laterally compressed in the anterior series as a cursorial adaptation. A strong muscular attachment to vertebrae provides this rodent speed, agility, dexterity and strength suitable for survival in food chain.
Decision‐making in dermatologic surgery
Authors: Butt Sanaa , Affleck Andrew
Published: September 2021

Good clinical decision‐making is important in dermatologic surgery. Experience and knowledge help considerably, but take time to acquire. However, how the clinician thinks is also a significant contributory factor. How we think is influenced by many factors, including our beliefs, prejudices, confidence and variables like how we are feeling at that moment physically and emotionally. Thought process can be either fast and subconscious or slow and analytical. Fast thinking contributes to the majority of decision‐making and is especially prone to a range of biases which may contribute to suboptimal clinical outcomes. We wish to highlight and illustrate common biases in thinking encountered by the dermatologic surgeon.
Colorectal cancer databases and registries in Australia: what data is available?
Authors: Tham Nicole , Skandarajah Anita , Hayes Ian P
Published: September 2021

Background

There are multiple data sources relating to colorectal cancer (CRC) nationwide. Prospective clinical cancer databases, population‐based registries and linked administrative data are powerful tools in clinical outcomes research and provide real‐world perspective on cancer treatments. This study aims to review the different Australian data sources for CRC from the perspective of conducting comparative research studies using a PICO (patient, intervention, comparison, outcome) framework.

Methods

Data dictionaries from the different data sources were evaluated for the types of exposure and outcome variables contained to highlight their differing research utility.

Results

State or territory‐based cancer registries contain limited histology, cancer staging and treatment detail. They enable investigation of population‐level patterns in overall survival (OS) of cancer patients with different demographics. Prospective clinical cancer databases contain more detail, especially surgical. Their strength is in auditing short‐term surgical outcomes. They vary in the amount of data collected for other cancer treatments and completion of follow up data. Linked administrative databases have broad population coverage but less surgical detail. They provide population‐level data on treatment patterns, short‐term outcome measures and OS, as well as long‐term surgical outcomes such as identifying patients who did not undergo stoma reversal. These databases cannot assess disease‐free survival.

Conclusion

Of the various CRC data sources within Australia, linked administrative databases have the potential to provide the widest population coverage combined with the broadest range of exposures and outcomes, and arguably the most research utility.
Artificial vision: the effectiveness of the OrCam in patients with advanced inherited retinal dystrophies
Authors: Nguyen Xuan‐Thanh‐An , Koopman Jan , van Genderen Maria M. , Stam Henk L.M. , Boon Camiel J.F.
Published: September 2021

Purpose

To investigate the impact of the OrCam MyEye 2.0 (OrCam) on the quality of life and rehabilitation needs in patients with advanced retinitis pigmentosa (RP) or cone‐rod dystrophies (CRD). The OrCam is a wearable low‐vision aid that converts visual information to auditive feedback (e.g. text‐to‐speech, barcode and facial recognition).

Methods

Patients with a clinical diagnosis of RP (n = 9, 45%) or CRD (n = 11; 55%), and a best‐corrected visual acuity of ≤20/400 Snellen were invited to participate in this study. Questionnaires were administered at baseline and after 5.2 (standard deviation ± 1.5) weeks, which included the Dutch version of the National Eye Institute Visual Functioning Questionnaire (NEI‐VFQ), the Participation and Activity Inventory (PAI) and the OrCam Function Questionnaire (OFQ).

Results

Following OrCam testing, significant improvements were observed in the ‘near activities’ subscale of the NEI‐VFQ (p < 0.001); the ‘visual functioning’ subscale of the re‐engineered NEI‐VFQ (p = 0.001); the ‘reading’ rehabilitation goal of the PAI (p = 0.005) and the overall score of the OFQ (p < 0.001). The observed changes in questionnaire scores did not differ between phenotypes. Advantages and limitations of the OrCam were reported by patients. Three patients (15%) continued rehabilitation with the OrCam after completion of this study.

Conclusions

The OrCam mainly improves reading domains in patients with advanced stages of RP or CRD. Further improvements in the OrCam are needed to address current limitations, which may enhance its utility for patients with RP or CRD.
Comparison of a polypharmacy‐based scale with Charlson comorbidity index to predict 6‐month mortality in chronic complex patients after an ED visit
Authors: Enríquez‐Gómez Andrés , Ortega‐Navarro Cristina , Fernández‐Cordón Clara , Díez‐Villanueva Pablo , Martínez‐Sellés Manuel , de Lorenzo‐Pinto Ana , de Miguel‐Yanes José M.
Published: September 2021

Aims

The aim of this study was to test whether a newly designed polypharmacy‐based scale would perform better than Charlson's Comorbidity Index (CCI) to predict outcomes in chronic complex adult patients after a reference Emergency Department (ED) visit.

Methods

We built a polypharmacy‐based scale with prespecified drug families. The primary outcome was 6‐month mortality after the reference ED visit. Predefined secondary outcomes were need for hospital admission, 30‐day readmission, and 30‐day and 90‐day mortality. We evaluated the ability of the CCI and the polypharmacy‐based scale to independently predict 6‐month mortality using logistic regression, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, and cumulative survival curves using Kaplan–Meier estimates and the log‐rank test for three‐category distributions of the polypharmacy‐based scale and the CCI. Finally, we sought to replicate our results in two different external validation cohorts.

Results

We included 201 patients (53.7% women, mean age = 81.4 years), 162 of whom were admitted to the hospital at the reference ED visit. In separate multivariable analyses accounting for gender, age and main diagnosis at discharge, both the polypharmacy‐based scale (P < .001) and the CCI (P = .005) independently predicted 6‐month mortality. The polypharmacy‐based scale performed better in the ROC analyses (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.838, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.780–0.896) than the CCI (AUC = 0.628, 95% CI = 0.548–0.707). In the 6‐month cumulative survival analysis, the polypharmacy‐based scale showed statistical significance (P < .001), whereas the CCI did not (P = .484). We replicated our results in the validation cohorts.

Conclusions

Our polypharmacy‐based scale performed significantly better than the CCI to predict 6‐month mortality in chronic complex patients after a reference ED visit.
Botulinum toxin A promotes the transdifferentiation of primary keloid myofibroblasts into adipocyte‐like cells
Authors: Dai Xing , Lei Tie‐Chi
Published: September 2021

Keloid is a type of unusually raised scar. Botulinum toxin A (BTX‐A) has a great application potential in keloids treatment. Here, we investigated the functional role of BTX‐A in keloids. We separated keloid tissues and normal skin tissues from keloid patients and found that the expression of myofibroblast markers, α‐SMA, Collagen I, and Collagen III was increased in the keloid tissues as compared with normal skin tissues. Keloid fibroblasts derived from keloid tissues were treated with TGF‐β1 to induce the differentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts. The keloid myofibroblasts displayed a significant up‐regulation of α‐SMA. BTX‐A enhanced the expression of adipocyte markers, PPARγ and C/EBPα, and increased the accumulation of lipid droplets, and reduced the expression of α‐SMA, Collagen I, and Collagen III in the keloid myofibroblasts. Moreover, BTX‐A enhanced the expression of BMP4 and p‐smad1/5/8. Noggin (BMP4 antagonist) treatment reversed BTX‐A‐mediated increase of PPARγ and C/EBPα expression and lipid droplets, and down‐regulation of α‐SMA, Collagen I, and Collagen III in primary keloid myofibroblasts. In conclusion, BTX‐A promoted the transdifferentiation of primary keloid myofibroblasts into adipocyte‐like cells, which may attribute to activate BMP4/Smad signalling pathway. Thus, this study provides new insights into the mechanism of BTX‐A in keloid.
Can’t fight seeing sadness in tears: Measuring the implicit association between tears and sadness
Authors: Ong Chew Wei , Ito Kenichi
Published: September 2021

Visible tears have been shown to enhance the perception of sadness. Whether the sadness perception from visible tears can occur automatically, which is essential for the rapid identification of emotional cues in real‐life social interactions, is still unclear. We employed the reaction‐time‐based Implicit Association Test (IAT) to assess the implicit association of tears and sadness in two studies. Study 1 (N = 58) used sadness/non‐sadness or negative/positive affect words as attribute pairs and images of tearless or tearful neutral expressions as targeted concepts. In Study 2 (N = 54), the neutral expressions were replaced with anger, disgust, fear, surprise, and happiness expressions with or without tears. Both studies revealed a strong tendency among participants to implicitly associate tears with sadness and negative affect. The results complemented findings from self‐report measures by showing that the perception of sadness from visible tears can occur efficiently with little control.
Early detection of kidney cancer using urinary proteins: a truly non‐invasive strategy
Authors: Flitcroft Jordan G. , Verheyen Jeroen , Vemulkar Tarun , Welbourne Emma N. , Rossi Sabrina H. , Welsh Sarah J. , Cowburn Russell P. , Stewart Grant D.
Published: September 2021

Objectives

To review urinary protein biomarkers as potential non‐invasive, easily obtainable, early diagnostic tools in renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

Methods

A PubMed database search was performed up to the year 2020 to identify primary studies reporting potential urinary protein biomarkers for RCC. Separate searches were conducted to identify studies describing appropriate methods of developing cancer screening programmes and detection of cancer biomarkers.

Results

Several urinary protein biomarkers are under validation for RCC diagnostics, e.g. aquaporin‐1, perilipin‐2, carbonic anhydrase‐9, Raf‐kinase inhibitory protein, nuclear matrix protein‐22, 14‐3‐3 Protein β/α and neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin. However, none has yet been validated or approved for clinical use due to low sensitivity or specificity, inconsistencies in appropriate study design, or lack of external validation.

Conclusions

Evaluation of biomarkers’ feasibility, sample preparation and storage, biomarker validation, and the application of novel technologies may provide a solution that maximises the potential for a truly non‐invasive biomarker in early RCC diagnostics.
Cutaneous solitary fibrous tumor: Report of three cases with review of histopathological mimics
Authors: Vincek Vladimir , Kallis Penelope , Vause Ava , Vincek Erik , Ilkovitch Dan , Motaparthi Kiran
Published: September 2021

Solitary fibrous tumor (SFT) is a relatively uncommon spindle cell mesenchymal neoplasm that is most often based on the pleura but may rarely arise in extrapleural locations, including the skin. Herein, we describe three cases of cutaneous SFTs. SFT is characterized by epithelioid and spindle cells arranged in random patterns with focal prominent stromal collagen and pericytomatous vessels. Immunohistochemical evaluation is required for definitive distinction of SFT from other benign and malignant cutaneous spindle cell neoplasms. Although aggressive biologic behavior is uncommon, accurate diagnosis of it is required for prognostication and counseling. CD34, bcl‐2, and CD99 stains are positive in SFT, but not specific. STAT6 is the most sensitive and specific immunohistochemical marker to confirm diagnosis of SFT.
Vessel wall magnetic resonance imaging in COVID‐19‐associated cryptogenic ischemic stroke
Authors: Mazzacane Federico , Zito Antonio , Magno Serena , Persico Alessandra , Mazzoleni Valentina , Asteggiano Carlo , Rognone Elisa , Pichiecchio Anna , Padovani Alessandro , Cavallini Anna , Morotti Andrea
Published: September 2021

Background and purpose

Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is a common complication of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), but the underlying biological mechanisms remain unclear. We aimed to describe the prevalence of vessel wall alterations in patients with cryptogenic stroke through vessel wall magnetic resonance imaging (vwMRI).

Methods

All consecutive patients admitted for AIS and COVID‐19 to a single neuro‐COVID unit from 10 November to 31 December 2020 were prospectively evaluated and underwent a complete etiologic workup for AIS. In patients with cryptogenic stroke, the diagnostic workup was completed with vwMRI study.

Results

After the exclusion of four patients ineligible for MRI, a total of 10 patients were included (median age = 78 years, 50% males), of whom four (40%) had a cryptogenic stroke. vwMRI showed vascular changes consistent with inflammation of intracranial artery walls in three subjects (75%). Two patients had focal and one multifocal involvement.

Conclusions

vwMRI detected signs of vascular inflammation in the majority of patients with cryptogenic AIS, leading to an etiologic definition with potential therapeutical implications. Our findings are best interpreted as hypothesis‐generating, suggesting the possibility of expanding the diagnostic workup of cryptogenic stroke with vessel wall imaging.
First record of the giant date palm mealybug, Pseudaspidoproctus hyphaeniacus (Hall 1925) (Hemiptera: Monophlebidae), from Jordan
Authors: Katbeh Bader Ahmad , Al‐Jboory Ibrahim
Published: September 2021

The giant date palm mealybug, Pseudaspidoproctus hyphaeniacus (Hall 1925) (Hemiptera: Monophlebidae), is recorded from Jordan for the first time based on material collected from a farm located in Ghawr Kabid in the central Jordan Valley. Infestations were found on date palm, Phoenix dactylifera L., Canary Island date palm, Phoenix canariensis Hort. ex Chabaud and fan palms, Washingtonia sp. Photographs of the infestation in the field, different stages of the insect and slide preparations are provided. Specimens were deposited at the University of Jordan Insects Museum. A survey for the pest and its natural enemies in Jordan is needed to determine its distribution in the country and plan an integrated management program for the pest.