bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linking firms' strategies with firm performance: mediating role of network value in telecom industry
Authors: Blouch Riffat , Bakhsh Khuda , Shakeel Wajid , Khan Muhammad Majid , Yasmeen Aiza
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of the current study is to investigate the role network value of firm on the relationship between firm strategic initiatives on firm performance by managing the market antecedents including user's expectations, user's coordination and user's compatibility.

Design/methodology/approach

The current study uses secondary date of telecom industry of Pakistan, India and China. The data obtained were later subjected to the analysis using CASUALMED procedures of statistical analysis software (SAS).

Findings

The findings from the study projected that strategic drivers played an important role in leveraging the firms' performance. The results also confirm that in order to increase the firm performance, the network value of firms' plays a very crucial role.

Research limitations/implications

Despite making novel contribution, the present study has few limitations, need researchers' attention to be explained in the future, which includes narrow population size, not being able to work on indirect network effects and the theoretical explanation of behavioral antecedents of network value.

Practical implications

The present research have potential applications for managers of telecom industry, which in turn would help them to develop the strategies that they could build to leverage their network value and firms' performance.

Originality/value

The current study has made a considerable contribution in the literature by proposing a model that adds to the theoretical foundation of strategic management of the firm. So, closely considering these insights would be helping for the firms to leverage its network value in mobile telecommunication industry.
Modeling critical success factors for sustainable LSS implementation in hospitals: an empirical study
Authors: Swarnakar Vikas , Bagherian Anthony , Singh A.R.
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The objective of this paper is to investigate, assess and develop a hierarchical model to evaluate the interrelationship of critical success factors (CSFs) that influence the deployment of Sustainable LSS framework in hospitals. Further, developed model has been validated to investigate its applicability in hospitals towards sustainable LSS implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

“Interpretive Structural Modeling” (ISM) has been utilized to develop a convenient hierarchy and contextual relationship of key CSFs throughout the implementation pathway in Indian healthcare industry through systematic literature review and expert opinion, which is ensured by a taxonomy of CSFs using MICMAC (“Matrice d' Impacts Croisés-Multiplication Appliquée á un Classement”) and questionnaire-based survey to empirically validate the model through utilizing “Structural Equation Modelling” (SEM).

Findings

In this study, 17 keys CSFs to sustainable LSS implementation in healthcare industry have been investigated, and modeled. “Social and environmental responsibility,” “Financial return and project success stories,” “Top management involvement and leadership to implement Sustainable LSS,” “Availability of required resources, and their efficient utilization” are found to be the most essential CSFs for successful sustainable LSS implementation in healthcare industry. Further, classification of CSFs has been done for better interpretation of their nature using MICMAC approach. Moreover, the applicability of the proposed model has been empirically assessed utilizing SEM.

Research limitations/implications

The scrutiny of data reveals that the initial inputs from experts throughout the ISM pathway could trigger biased inputs into the study and generalization of the results into others, it might be viable that this propounded model might trigger distinct outcomes for contrasting types of healthcare organizations.

Practical implications

This model on sustainable LSS would support the decision-makers, practitioners and researchers to predict key CSFs through deployment and support the existing academic research on sustainable LSS. Accordingly, the focus on the CSFs of the sustainable LSS can be prioritized to diminish waste, and enhance patient satisfaction and safety.

Originality/value

This paper is an original contribution of analysis of CSFs in Indian healthcare industry utilizing an integrated ISM-MICMAC and SEM approach.
Linking digitalization and human capital to shape supply chain integration in omni-channel retailing
Authors: Song Shaohua , Shi Xianliang , Song Guang , Huq Fahian Anisul
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Supply chain integration (SCI) is key to implementing omni-channel retailing (OCR) strategy. In this paper, the authors explore the role of digitalization as a driver of SCI, as well the role of human capital (HC) in digitalization, using a knowledge management (KM) perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

An empirical study was conducted using survey research. A sample of 188 omni-channel retailers in the Chinese market was analyzed using factor analysis and structured equation modeling (SEM) to examine the hypotheses presented in the conceptual model.

Findings

This study reveals that HC is positively related to the level of a firm's digitalization in OCR, and that digitalization is positively related to the retailer's SCI. Moreover, the authors found that employees' capital has a greater impact on digitalization than managers' capital, while digitalization has a stronger driving effect on internal and customer integration.

Research limitations/implications

The findings suggest that although digitalization requires retailers to accept the long-term investment challenges, it has a significant positive effect on the key of OCR strategy implementation, i.e. SCI. The findings also provide evidence for the application of KM in OCR, as this theoretical lens enriches our understanding of the phenomena of SCI in OCR and provides explanation to our results by linking digitalization and HC.

Originality/value

Digitalization is quantified and examined in OCR. Moreover, this study reveals the importance of HC on the implementation of digitalization and the different effects of digitalization on each dimension of SCI.
Political ties and corporate performance: why efficiency matters?
Authors: Najaf Rabia , Najaf Khakan
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine and explain the complex interrelationships which influence the performance of politically connected firms to create value for their providers of finance and other stakeholders. In doing so, it examines the interrelationships between efficiency and delivering on corporate performance of a firm with political ties.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors gathered the literature from the Scopus website. They reviewed the literature of 58 manuscripts about the efficiency and performance of politically connected firms.

Findings

The research finds that the better quality of efficiency of politically connected firms is positively related to the corporate performance of politically connected firms. The authors’ theoretical findings corroborate the political theory, agency theory, stakeholder theory, resource dependency theory and stewardship theory. These theories prove that political connections have an impact on firm performance as a politician reinforces the efficacy. To better understand the effect of political connections on solid performance due to efficiency, this study classifies various efficiencies and links them with political ties.

Research limitations/implications

Several avenues of research are suggested to examine further the interrelationships identified.

Practical implications

The authors’ conceptual findings are valuable for institutional investors, policymakers and stakeholders. To sum up, all theoretical shreds of evidence prove that politically connected firms can enhance performance via efficiency.

Originality/value

The paper conceptualizes the efficiency and performance interrelationships of politically connected firms. The extant literature comparison allows an assessment of the extent to which different efficiency contexts lead to differences in performance.
Structural design guidelines for Delayed Coker Unit (DCU) used in hydrocarbon industry
Authors: Bedair Osama
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Delays in projects execution due to improper structural design lead to substantial losses to the owners. Little guidelines are available in practice that deals with structural design of Delayed Coker Units (DCUs). This work describes effective structural criteria for design of DCU used in hydrocarbon industry. Economical procedures are described for steel and concrete design. Design of pump houses supporting DCU is also described.

Design/methodology/approach

Numerical procedures are developed to model pipelines and mechanical equipment loadings. Soil restraints are simulated using horizontal and vertical springs along the pile embedded length. Concrete pile-caps are integrated with steel structure in the analysis model.

Findings

The proposed design approach is cost effective to use in practice. The paper offers economical footprint for design of DCUs that can be used for multiple projects.

Practical implications

The paper provides useful guidelines that can be utilized by engineers for design of coker heater and coker fractionation stacks, steel modules, coke pump house, deluge building, etc.

Originality/value

Currently, there are no guidelines in practice that deal with structural design of DCU. The present work bridges this gap and describes novel strategies that can be utilized for industrial projects.
Who will pay for customers' fault? Workplace cheating behavior, interpersonal conflict and traditionality
Authors: Men Chenghao , Huo Weiwei , Wang Jing
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Despite workplace cheating behavior is common and costly, little research has explored its antecedents from customers' perspective. The current study aims to investigate the indirect mechanisms between customer mistreatment and cheating behavior, and exam the moderated role of traditionality.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on conservation of resources theory, the authors examine how customer mistreatment affects workplace cheating behavior. They test their hypotheses using a time-lagged field study of 183 employees.

Findings

The results show that customer mistreatment is positively related to interpersonal conflict with customers, which positively affects workplace cheating behavior. Traditionality moderates the indirect effect of customer mistreatment on workplace cheating behavior.

Originality/value

This study calls for researchers' attention to exploring the antecedents of workplace cheating behavior from customers' perspective, and first provides empirical evidence on the relationship between customer mistreatment and workplace cheating behavior, which has never been examined.
Impact of long‐term water level drawdown on functional plant trait composition of northern peatlands
Authors: Laine Anna M. , Korrensalo Aino , Kokkonen Nicola A. K. , Tuittila Eeva‐Stiina
Published: July 2021

Understanding how plant communities respond to increased evaporation and consequent water level drawdown (WLD) is critical for predicting the functioning of northern peatlands under climate change. Functional traits provide a quantitative link between vegetation and ecosystem functions and, therefore, constitute a useful concept for predicting responses to climate change.

We studied the impact of long‐term experimental WLD on vascular plant and moss traits at a rich fen, poor fen and bog. Vegetation change was followed over a 15‐year period. In the final study year, the traits of the most common plant species were measured from control and WLD areas at each peatland type.

We found equally high interspecific trait variation for Sphagnum mosses and vascular plants while the intraspecific variation was greater in the mosses.

Community‐weighted mean (CWM) traits varied between sites; WLD had the strongest impact on those traits that the dominant plant group originally had high values for, and in most cases, WLD further increased these values. In the vascular‐plant‐dominated rich fen, WLD led to taller plants with a greater specific leaf area, features that under the prevailing water table were also greatest at that site. In the bog, characterized by dense Sphagnum moss stands with small individuals, WLD further enhanced these properties that increase the ability of a moss stand to remain moist under drier conditions. The poor fen was transitional between the two extremes, both in its vegetation composition and in its trait responses.

Structural equation models (SEM) showed that WLD in the fens, indirectly via other traits, increased photosynthetic capacity while the impact in the bog site was the opposite. In the poor fen and bog, WLD directly increased vascular plant respiration while the increase in the rich fen was through other traits. WLD directly increased and decreased Sphagnum respiration in the poor fen and bog, respectively. Overall, the traits of the vascular plant and Sphagnum communities in the bog were more dependent on each other than they were in the fens.

Based on these findings, it is evident that fens and bogs respond differently to WLD. This should be considered when predicting the effects of climate change on peatland carbon cycling.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
The enemy of my enemy is not always my friend: Negative effects of carnivorous arthropods on plants
Authors: Cuny Maximilien A. C. , Bourne Mitchel E. , Dicke Marcel , Poelman Erik H.
Published: July 2021

Plants are members of complex communities of which arthropods are the most speciose members. The role of carnivores in shaping the outcome of multi‐trophic interactions by top‐down control of herbivores has been well studied. Particularly, the positive impacts of natural enemies of herbivores on plants through direct (consumptive) and indirect (non‐consumptive) effects on their prey and hosts have received considerable interest, while multi‐trophic interactions that result in negative effects on plants have received little attention.

Negative impacts of carnivorous arthropods have been documented and arise when carnivores directly affect plants and/or their interactions with beneficial arthropods. In general, negative effects may be compensated by positive effects of other carnivorous arthropods, but their presence and significance is likely to be underestimated in tri‐trophic interactions.

Recent studies have revealed that the composition and dynamics of the plant and arthropod community have a significant effect on plant fitness. Therefore, we encourage an approach that accounts for a larger community of species and interactions associated with plants, including interaction types in which carnivores may negatively affect plants.

This review highlights specific interaction types that ultimately lead to negative effects of carnivores on plants. This synthesis presents alternative hypotheses to those that predict that carnivores invariably benefit plants. Testing potential costs and benefits of carnivores to plants will advance our understanding of indirect plant defence.

A free Plain Language Summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article.
Synergistic effects of exercise and catalase overexpression on gut microbiome
Authors: Chen See Jeremy R. , Amos Deborah , Wright Justin , Lamendella Regina , Santanam Nalini
Published: July 2021

Exercise influences metabolic parameters in part by modulating redox stress and as recently suggested, by affecting the gut microbiome. However, whether excess endogenous antioxidant potentiates or interferes with the beneficial effects of exercise on the gut microbiome is not known. A comparison of the gut microbiome of C57Bl6 (C57/WT) mice to the ‘stress‐less’ catalase overexpressing mice models ([Tg(CAT)±] and Bob‐Cat), that were either exercised or remained sedentary, showed differences in both alpha and beta diversity. The significant variation was explained by genotypes along with exercise, suggesting a synergistic relationship between exercise and genotypic traits. Linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) analysis also revealed differential taxa within the exercised/genotype cohorts in contrast to those within sedentary/genotype cohorts. Functional pathway predictions from PICRUSt2 showed enrichment for the metabolism of short‐chain fatty acids, butanoate and propanoate pathways in exercised groups. Spearman correlations between enriched taxa and metabolic parameters showed correlations with body or fat weight in some of the cohorts. However, there were significant correlations of differential taxa among all cohorts against parameters that predict energy metabolism, such as respiratory exchange ratio and energy expenditure. Overall, our study showed that there was a synergistic beneficial influence of antioxidant overexpression and exercise on the gut microbiome.
Interactions between risk assessors and risk managers during three major food incidents in Europe
Authors: Focker M. , van den Borne B. H. P. , Fischer M. , Schuh E. , Mader A. , Andersson M. G. , Ali B. M. , van der Fels‐Klerx H. J.
Published: July 2021

Risk analysis consists of risk assessment (RA), risk management (RM), and risk communication (RC). In most countries, RA and RM of food safety are separated to achieve a high scientific integrity, and typically occur in sequential order. However, in case of a food safety incident, even though being separate processes, RA and RM are performed simultaneously due to great time pressure and expected high impacts. The aim of this study was to analyze and evaluate the observed interactions between RA and RM processes, during three major food incidents in Europe, and to provide suggestions for possible improvement. Based on the differences observed between the three cases, strengths and weaknesses of each system have been identified. The enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) crisis in 2011 in Germany, the horsemeat scandal in 2013 in Ireland, and the fipronil incident in 2017 in the Netherlands were used as case studies. Timelines of these incidents and crisis management procedures in place in each of the three countries provided the basis for further analysis. First, results showed that details of the communication processes between RA and RM bodies were frequently lacking in crisis management protocols. Second, RA, RM, and RC processes differed for each incident, due to differences in estimated risk for public health, but also due to differences in the organization within a country. Based on our results, we recommend that crisis management protocols should contain a section on communication between RA, RM, and on communication between member states in the EU.
Effects of supervised exercise program and home exercise program in patients with systemic sclerosis: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yakut Hazal , Özalevli Sevgi , Aktan Ridvan , Özgen Alpaydın Aylin , Merih Birlik Ahmet , Can Gerçek
Published: July 2021

Aim

To compare the effects of supervised exercise and home exercise program in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc).

Methods

Thirty‐seven SSc patients were included. Patients with SSc were allocated into 2 groups as supervised and home exercise. Breathing, aerobic and resistance exercises were performed with a physiotherapist for 12 weeks in the supervised exercise group. Breathing, posture and aerobic exercises were given to the home exercise group as a home program for 12 weeks. All patients were assessed at baseline and 12 weeks later in terms of functional capacity, pulmonary functions, respiratory‐peripheral muscle strength, dyspnea severity, health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) and fatigue level.

Results

Significant improvements were observed in the functional capacity, measured by 6 minute walking test in the supervised exercise group (before = 376.21 ± 65.50, after = 518.78 ± 75.84 m) and home exercise group (before = 384.44 ± 68.14, after = 432.7 ± 70.8 m; (P < .05). Respiratory‐peripheral muscle strength (with the exception of inspiratory muscle strength and upper limb strength in the home exercise group) and HRQoL were significantly increased and fatigue level was significantly decreased in the supervised exercise and home exercise groups (P < .05). However, pulmonary functions and dyspnea severity were significantly improved only in the supervised exercise group (P < .05). The supervised exercise program was found superior to the home exercise program for change in all parameters (P < .05).

Conclusion

This study suggests that exercise interventions should be applied in addition to the medical treatments of patients with SSc as supervised and home exercise programs play an important role in the functionality and health status of these patients.
Suppression and acceptance in unipolar depression: Short‐term and long‐term effects on emotional responding
Authors: Liverant Gabrielle I. , Gallagher Matthew W. , Arditte Hall Kimberly A. , Rosebrock Laina E. , Black Shimrit K. , Kind Shelley , Fava Maurizio , Kaplan Gary B. , Kamholz Barbara W. , Pineles Suzanne L. , Sloan Denise M.
Published: July 2021

Objectives

Transdiagnostic treatments increasingly include emotion regulation training focused on use of emotional suppression and acceptance. Despite the frequent use of these treatments in depression, little is known about the effects of these strategies in this population.

Design

An experimental study.

Methods

Eighty Veterans with unipolar depression participated in a study examining effects of these strategies on emotional responding (subjective, behavioural, and physiological). Physiological measures included: heart rate (HR), respiration (Resp), skin conductance (SC), and corrugator electromyography. On Day 1, participants were randomised to one of three conditions (acceptance, suppression, or control) and underwent an autobiographical sad mood induction. On Day 2, participants underwent a similar mood induction one week later.

Results

The suppression group demonstrated reduced physiological reactivity (Resp and SC) on Day 1. However, the suppression group reported decreased positive affect on Day 2.

Conclusions

Results support short‐term effectiveness and longer term costs from suppression use among depressed individuals. Findings may inform application of transdiagnostic emotion regulation treatments and suggest suppression functions differently in depressed versus other clinical populations.
Governance matters: Regulating ride hailing platforms in Canada's largest city‐regions
Authors: Tabascio Alexander , Brail Shauna
Published: July 2021

While scholars acknowledge the important role played by regulators in managing ride hailing and its impacts on cities, few studies have explored the implications for developing ride hailing regulations at different levels of governance. This paper examines regulatory approaches to ride hailing in Canada's three largest metropolitan regions: Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver. Though united by a national border, these three regions are subject to unique governance approaches, histories, and trajectories. Although ground transportation in Canada usually falls within local or municipal authority, only Toronto, amongst these three city‐regions, treats the regulation of ground transportation as a local responsibility. In both Montreal and Vancouver, which are subject to different regulatory and governance structures, ride hailing is primarily regulated at the provincial level. As a more detailed examination reveals, we can further distinguish the three metropolitan areas based on the extent of intraregional coordination and regional mobility. By introducing these two concepts, the paper explores both the intended and unintended regional impacts of ride hailing regulations. These findings are relevant not only to ride hailing, but also to broader questions about governing both regional mobility and the platform economy.
Wernicke’s encephalopathy precipitated by neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder and Graves’ disease: A tale of clinical and radiological dilemmas
Authors: Ghosh Ritwik , Dubey Souvik , Ray Adrija , Roy Dipayan , De Kaustav , Mandal Arpan , Naga Dinobandhu , Swaika Bikash Chandra , Pandit Alak , Benito‐León Julián
Published: July 2021

Background

Neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), an autoimmune astrocytopathy, may share common clinico‐radiological features with Wernicke's encephalopathy (WE). A variant of NMOSD, known as area postrema syndrome (APS), that presents with intractable hiccups and associated vomiting, might lead to the depletion of nutrients if not detected and treated early. Autoimmune thyroid disorders (i.e., Graves’ disease) may be associated with NMOSD. Rarely, thyrotoxicosis can give rise to thiamine depletion and WE.

Case presentation

Here, we present a case of untreated hyperthyroidism in an Indian female who presented with thyrotoxicosis and later developed WE, possibly also contributed by NMOSD (APS)‐induced recurrent vomiting. The patient recovered with antithyroid drugs, parenteral thiamine, and immunomodulatory therapy. The possible pathogenic mechanisms have been discussed.

Conclusion

Our case establishes the importance of considering NMOSD variants in metabolic encephalopathy, especially if neuroimaging is suggestive and in the backdrop of another autoimmune disorder.
Full or intensity‐reduced high‐dose melphalan and single or double autologous stem cell transplant with or without bortezomib consolidation in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma
Authors: Straka Christian , Salwender Hans , Knop Stefan , Vogel Martin , Müller Jürgen , Metzner Bernd , Langer Christian , Sayer Herbert , Jung Wolfram , Dürk Heinz A. , Bassermann Florian , Gramatzki Martin , Rösler Wolf , Wolf Hans‐Heinrich , Brugger Wolfram , Engelhardt Monika , Fischer Thomas , Liebisch Peter , Einsele Hermann
Published: July 2021

Objective

A post hoc subgroup analysis of two phase III trials (NCT00416273, NCT00416208) was carried out to investigate the influence of 100/140 and 200 mg/m² melphalan as well as single/double autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) on progression‐free survival (PFS). Additionally, the effect of bortezomib consolidation on PFS was analyzed.

Methods

Following induction therapy and high‐dose melphalan with subsequent ASCT, patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) were randomized 1:1 to either four 35‐day cycles of bortezomib consolidation (1.6 mg/m² IV on days 1, 8, 15, 22) or observation.

Results

Of the 340 patients included in this analysis, 13.5% received 1 × MEL100/140, 22.9% 2 × MEL100/140, 31.2% 1 × MEL200, and 32.4% 2 × MEL200. With higher cumulative melphalan dose, PFS improved (P = .0085). PFS curves of patients treated with 2 × MEL100/140 and 1 × MEL200 were very similar. The superior dose effect of MEL200 over MEL100/140 was non‐existent in the bortezomib consolidation arm but pronounced in the observation arm (P = .0015). Similarly, double ASCT was only beneficial in patients without bortezomib consolidation (P = .0569).

Conclusions

Full dose melphalan and double transplantation seem advantageous only as long as patients are not receiving bortezomib consolidation afterwards.
On the offense and defense: mitochondrial recovery programs amidst targeted pathogenic assault
Authors: Mahmud Siraje A. , Qureshi Mohammed A. , Pellegrino Mark W.
Published: July 2021

Bacterial pathogens employ a variety of tactics to persist in their host and promote infection. Pathogens often target host organelles in order to benefit their survival, either through manipulation or subversion of their function. Mitochondria are regularly targeted by bacterial pathogens owing to their diverse cellular roles, including energy production and regulation of programmed cell death. However, disruption of normal mitochondrial function during infection can be detrimental to cell viability because of their essential nature. In response, cells use multiple quality control programs to mitigate mitochondrial dysfunction and promote recovery. In this review, we will provide an overview of mitochondrial recovery programs including mitochondrial dynamics, the mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt), and mitophagy. We will then discuss the various approaches used by bacterial pathogens to target mitochondria, which result in mitochondrial dysfunction. Lastly, we will discuss how cells leverage mitochondrial recovery programs beyond their role in organelle repair, to promote host defense against pathogen infection.
Institutional vulnerability and trust in public agencies: Views from both sides of the street
Authors: Spink Peter , Lotta Gabriela , Burgos Fernando
Published: July 2021

This article seeks to contribute to the discussion of the dynamics of trust in street‐level public sector work, especially in settings where relationships between agencies, frontline workers, and society are fragile. Data was gathered in different vulnerable areas of the city of São Paulo, Brazil using interviews with frontline workers and complemented with field notes from a five‐year longitudinal study in one high‐density area with a history of violence. Concern was to understand how, despite a lack of reciprocal trust, citizens and service providers create ways of meeting daily demands and how, in doing so, they see each other. Results show that in vulnerable settings, issues of inter‐agency cooperation and territorial connectivity between different public sector services can be more important than individual agency performance in helping citizens find solutions to the problems they are facing. In the absence of an effective inter‐institutional framework, trust is quickly eroded.
Effect of toothbrush bristle stiffness and toothbrushing force on the abrasive dentine wear
Authors: Hamza Blend , Tanner Moritz , Körner Philipp , Attin Thomas , Wegehaupt Florian Just
Published: July 2021

Objective

To investigate the influence of toothbrush bristle stiffness and applied brushing force on the resulting abrasive dentine wear in vitro.

Methods

One hundred sixty bovine dentine samples were randomly allocated in eight groups (n = 20). Groups one to four were brushed with a soft‐bristle toothbrush with soft bristles applying 1, 2, 3 and 4 N brushing force, respectively. Groups five to eight were brushed with a medium‐bristle toothbrush applying the same aforementioned brushing forces (120 strokes/min, abrasive slurry (RDA = 121), 25 min). Profiles were recorded before and after the brushing sequence, and the median and interquartile range of abrasive dentine wear were calculated and compared using two‐way ANOVA and pairwise tests corrected after Tukey (α = 0.05).

Results

At 1, 2 and 3 N brushing force, the tested toothbrushes caused no significantly different abrasive dentine wear. At 4 N brushing force, the medium‐bristle toothbrush caused statistically significantly higher abrasive force than the soft‐bristle toothbrush. Using the medium‐bristle toothbrush, abrasive dentine wear statistically significantly increased with increasing brushing force from 1 to 3 N. However, increasing the brushing force to 4 N did not result in statistically significantly higher wear. Using the soft‐bristle toothbrush, abrasive dentine wear statistically significantly increased with increasing brushing force from 1 to 2 N. However, increasing the brushing force to 3 or 4 N did not result in statistically significantly higher wear.

Conclusion

The soft‐bristle toothbrush tends to cause less abrasive wear with increasing brushing force than the medium‐bristle toothbrush.
Leadless pacemakers in critically ill patients requiring prolonged cardiac pacing: A multicenter international study
Authors: Clementy Nicolas , Coelho Roxane , Veltmann Christian , Marijon Eloi , Tolosana José , Galand Vincent , Ploux Sylvain , Eschalier Romain , Simeon Edouard , Blessberger Hermann , Mueller‐Leisse Johanna , Pujol‐Lopez Margarida , Martins Raphaël , Ritter Philippe , Steinwender Clemens , Babuty Dominique
Published: July 2021

Background

Temporary transvenous pacing in critically ill patients requiring prolonged cardiac pacing is associated with a high risk of complications. We sought to evaluate the safety and efficacy of self‐contained intracardiac leadless pacemaker (LPM) implantation in this population.

Methods and Results

Consecutive patients implanted with a Micra LPM during the hospitalization in an intensive care unit were retrospectively included. Inclusion criteria were: more than or equal to 1 supracaval central venous line, or a ventilation tube, or intravenous antibiotic therapy for ongoing sepsis or bacteremia. Patients with a history of the previous implantation of a pacemaker were excluded. Out of 1016 patients implanted with an LPM, 99 met the inclusion criteria. Mean age was 75 years and Charlson comorbidity index 7. LPM implantation was successfully performed in 98% of cases, with a perioperative complication rate of 5%, mainly cardiac injuries. In‐hospital mortality rate was 6%. No late (>30 days) device‐related complication occurred, especially no infection.

Conclusions

LPM appears as an acceptable alternative to conventional temporary transvenous pacing in selected critically ill patients requiring prolonged cardiac pacing, especially regarding the risk of infection.
Too much theory and not enough practice? The challenge of implementation science application in healthcare practice
Authors: Rapport Frances , Smith James , Hutchinson Karen , Clay‐Williams Robyn , Churruca Kate , Bierbaum Mia , Braithwaite Jeffrey
Published: July 2021

Background

Implementation science (IS) should contribute to maintaining high standards of care across healthcare systems and enhancing care practices. However, despite the evident need for greater and more rapid uptake and integration of evidence in practice, IS design and methodology fall short of the needs of effective translation.

Aim

In this paper we examine what it is about IS that makes it so appealing for effective uptake of interventions in routine practice, and yet so difficult to achieve. We propose a number of ways that implementation scientists could build mutual relationships with healthcare practitioners and other stakeholders including public members to ensure greater shared care practices, and highlight the value of IS training, collaborative educational events, and co‐designed research.

Discussion

More consideration should be given to IS applications in healthcare contexts. Implementation scientists can make a valuable contribution by mobilizing theory and improving practice. However, goals for an evidence‐based system may be more appropriately achieved through greater outreach and collaboration, with methods that are flexible to support rapid implementation in complex adaptive systems. Collective learning and mutual trust can be cultivated by embedding researchers into healthcare services while offering greater opportunities for practitioners to learn about, and engage in, implementation research.

Conclusion

To bridge the worlds of healthcare practice and IS, researchers could be more consistent in the relationships they build with professionals and the public, communicating through a shared language and co‐joining practical approaches to effective implementation. This will build capacity for improved collaboration and foster respectful, interdisciplinary relationships.
UK Nutrition Research Partnership (NRP) workshop: Improving our understanding of the metabolic interplay between nutrition and physical activity (IN‐PACT)
Authors: Wallis Gareth A. , Chambers Edward S.
Published: July 2021

This article describes a UK Nutrition Research Partnership (UK NRP)/Medical Research Council (MRC) 'Hot Topic' workshop that aimed to develop a better understanding of the interplay between nutrition and physical activity and their effects on human metabolism at the mechanistic level. The article provides a rationale for the workshop and a summary of the objectives. The report then presents an overview of the topics discussed at the workshop and the priority research areas identified that would enable the development of integrated evidence‐based dietary guidelines with improved potential to transform long‐term health.
“Go back to your country”: Exploring nurses' experiences of workplace conflict involving patients and patients' family members in two Canadian cities
Authors: Boateng Godfred O. , Brown Kyrah K.
Published: July 2021

This study explores nurses' experiences of workplace conflict with patients and their family members, how it differs by ethnic/racial identity, and highlights the coping strategies engaged to lessen these conflicts. Using a qualitative research design, this study draws on phenomenology and in‐depth interviews of 66 registered nurses and registered practical nurses from multiple sites in two Canadian cities to explore the experiences of nurses with multiple marginalized identities in relation to nurse–patient and nurse–patient's family member conflicts in direct care practice. The results show that horizontal conflicts, especially, ones involving nurses, patients, and their family members are quite pervasive in the nursing profession. Direct care nurses, especially, ethnic minorities relative to majority groups experience excessive physical assaults, verbal aggressive behaviors, racial stereotyping and discrimination, and sexual harassment from patients and patients' family members. Institutional support through policies and practices designed to de‐escalate aggressive behavior from patients and their family members were identified as important support systems. We conclude that policies aimed at creating a safe and strong health‐care system call for holding patients and th'eir family members legally responsible for uncivil and aggressive behavior against caregivers.
Euphorbia lakshminarasimhanii: a new pygmy succulent species from Konkan region of Maharashtra, India
Authors: Malpure Nilesh V. , Raut Prashant S. , Chandore Arun N. , De Jong Bruce E.
Published: July 2021

Euphorbia lakshminarasimhanii (Euphorbiaceae), a new pygmy species belonging to the genus Euphorbia subg. Euphorbia sect. Euphorbia is described and illustrated from the Konkan region of Maharashtra, India. It is easily distinguished from all known Indian species by its unique sparsely‐branched pygmy habit, closely spaced and horizontally flattened tubercles, trapezoidal spine shields which are very close and overlapping at the apical region, giving a pouch like appearance, bifurcated spines completely separated by the leaf scar, leaves forming a crown, long bracts extending past the gland edge, coral red colored glands with indented margins, male florets 10 per fascicle, and capsule having globose cocci with thin keels.
Input and output in distributive theory
Authors: Eyal Nir , Herlitz Anders
Published: July 2021

Distributive theories evaluate distributions of goods based on candidate recipients’ characteristics, e.g. how well off candidates are, how deserving they are, and whether they fare below sufficiency. But such characteristics vary across possible worlds, so distributive theories may differ in terms of the world which for them settles candidates’ characteristics. This paper examines how distributive theories differ in terms of whether candidate recipients’ relevant characteristics are grounded in the possible world that would take place if the distributor does not intervene (call it the “input” world) or if they are grounded in each possible world that the distributor can bring about through different decisions (call each an “output” world). We illustrate the importance of this distinction in relation to one distributive theory, prioritarianism. As we show, both input and output versions of prioritarianism are plausible interpretations of the literature, and there are good reasons to take input prioritarianism seriously. Ultimately, however, we argue that input prioritarianism should be rejected.
Tolerance to high temperature at reproductive stage: Trade‐offs between phenology, grain yield and yield‐related traits in wild and cultivated barleys
Authors: Bahrami Forouzan , Arzani Ahmad , Rahimmalek Mehdi
Published: July 2021

High‐temperature stress at the reproductive stage poses a substantial constraint on cereal production worldwide. This study was conducted to assess tolerance to terminal high‐temperature stress in 45 wild (Hordeum vulgare ssp. spontaneum) genotypes, four cultivars (H. vulgare ssp. vulgare), 98 F3 and 79 BC1F2 families derived from hybridization of a high‐temperature tolerant wild genotype and a susceptible cultivar ‘Mona’. Results of analysis of variance showed significant genotypic and high‐temperature stress effects on all the traits studied. Approximately one quarter of the wild genotypes originating from a warmer climate were slightly affected by high‐temperature stress. Grain yield strongly correlated (p < .01) with stress tolerance, yield stability and heat tolerance indices. The reduction in the reproduction period caused by high temperature was much higher in cultivated genotypes than in wild ones. Grain number and weight were the most effective yield components to screen high‐temperature tolerant F3 and BC1F2 families. In conclusion, strategies like escape/avoidance are being used primarily to cope with heat stress by cultivars, whereas adaptive strategies such as tolerance are being implemented by wild barley.
More sophisticated than a drink cooler or an old sphygmomanometer but still not adequate for prehospital blood: A market review of commercially available equipment for prehospital blood transport and administration
Authors: Martin Silver M. , Fisher Andrew D. , Meledeo Michael A. , Wampler David , Nicholson Susannah E. , Raczek Katherine , April Michael D. , Weymouth Wells L. , Bynum James , Schauer Steven G.
Published: July 2021

Background

Hemorrhage is the leading cause of death in trauma patients with most fatalities occurring before reaching a higher level of care—this applies to both the civilian setting and the military combat setting. Hemostatic resuscitation with increased emphasis on blood transfusion while limiting use of crystalloids has become routine in trauma care. However, the prehospital setting—especially in combat—presents unique challenges with regard to storage, transport, and administration. We sought to evaluate available technology on the market for storage and administration technology that is relevant to the prehospital setting.

Study design and methods

We conducted a market review of available technology through subject–matter expert inquiry, reviews of published literature, reviews of Federal Drug Administration databases, internal military publications, and searches of Google.

Results

We reviewed and described a total of 103 blood transporters, 22 infusers, and 6 warmers.

Conclusions

The risk of on‐scene fatality in trauma patients and recent developments in trauma care demonstrate the need for prehospital transfusion. These transfusions have been logistically prohibited in many operations. We have reviewed the current commercially available equipment and recommended pursuit of equipment that improves accessibility to field transfusion. Current technology has limited applicability for the prehospital setting and is further limited for the military setting.
Evaluation of trauma‐induced coagulopathy in the fibrinogen in the initial resuscitation of severe trauma trial
Authors: Peng Henry T. , Nascimento Barto , Rhind Shawn G. , da Luz Luis , Beckett Andrew
Published: July 2021

Background

Coagulopathic bleeding is frequently present after major trauma. However, trauma‐induced coagulopathy (TIC) remains incompletely understood. This laboratory analysis of blood samples derived from our completed trial on fibrinogen in the initial resuscitation of severe trauma (FiiRST) was conducted to evaluate TIC and associated responses to fibrinogen replacement.

Study design and methods

We conducted a retrospective evaluation of TIC in 45 FiiRST trial patients based on rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM), international normalized ratio (INR), and biomarkers for hemostasis and endotheliopathy. Whole blood was analyzed by ROTEM. Plasma was analyzed for INR and biomarkers.

Results

Overall, 19.0% and 30.0% of the FiiRST trial patients were coagulopathic on admission defined by EXTEM maximum clot firmness out of the range of 40–71 mm and INR >1.2, respectively. The FiiRST patients showed lower fibrinogen, factor II and V levels, protein C and antiplasmin activities, higher activated protein C, tissue plasminogen activator, d‐dimer, and thrombomodulin concentrations at admission than healthy controls. Most of the biomarkers changed their activities during 48‐h hospitalization, but were at abnormal levels even 48‐h after admission. The fibrinogen treatment reduced hypofibrinogenemia and increased factor XIII level, but had no significant effects on other biomarkers levels. Limited development of endotheliopathy was indicated by syndean‐1, thrombomodulin, and sE‐selectin.

Conclusions

About 19%–30% of the trauma patients in the FiiRST trial were coagulopathic on hospital admission depending on the definition of TIC. Analyses of the TIC biomarkers demonstrated that hemostasis would not return to normal after 48‐h hospitalization, and fibrinogen replacement improved hypofibrinogenemia.
Refrigeration of apheresis platelets in platelet additive solution (PAS‐E) supports in vitro platelet quality to maximize the shelf‐life
Authors: Johnson Lacey , Vekariya Shuchna , Wood Ben , Tan Shereen , Roan Christopher , Marks Denese C.
Published: July 2021

Background

Refrigeration, or cold‐storage, of platelets may be beneficial to extend the limited shelf‐life of conventionally stored platelets and support transfusion protocols in rural and military areas. The aim of this study was to compare the morphologic, metabolic, and functional aspects of apheresis platelets stored at room‐temperature (RT) or cold conditions, in either plasma or supplemented with platelet additive solution (PAS).

Study design and methods

Double‐dose apheresis platelets were collected in either 100% plasma or 40% plasma/60% PAS‐E using the Trima apheresis platform. One component from each group was either stored at RT (20–24°C) or refrigerated (2–6°C). Platelets were tested over a 21‐day period.

Results

The platelet concentration decreased by approximately 30% in all groups during 21 days of storage (p > .05). Cold‐storage reduced glycolytic metabolism, and the pH was maintained above the minimum specification (>6.4) for 21 days only when platelets were stored in PAS. The surface phenotype and the composition of the supernatant were differentially affected by temperature and storage solution. Functional responses (aggregation, agonist‐induced receptor activation, clotting time) were improved during cold‐storage, and the influence of residual plasma was assay dependent.

Conclusion

In vitro platelet quality is differentially affected by storage time, temperature, and solution. Cold‐storage, particularly in PAS, better maintains key metabolic, phenotypic, and functional parameters during prolonged storage.