bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impacts of Initial Prescription Length and Prescribing Limits on Risk of Prolonged Postsurgical Opioid Use
Authors: Young Jessica C. , Dasgupta Nabarun , Chidgey Brooke A. , Stürmer Til , Pate Virginia , Hudgens Michael , Jonsson Funk Michele
Published: November 2021

Background:

In response to concerns about opioid addiction following surgery, many states have implemented laws capping the days supplied for initial postoperative prescriptions. However, few studies have examined changes in the risk of prolonged opioid use associated with the initial amount prescribed.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to estimate the risk of prolonged opioid use associated with the length of initial opioid prescribed and the potential impact of prescribing limits.

Research Design:

Using Medicare insurance claims (2007–2017), we identified opioid-naive adults undergoing surgery. Using G-computation methods with logistic regression models, we estimated the risk of prolonged opioid use (≥1 opioid prescription dispensed in 3 consecutive 30-d windows following surgery) associated with the varying initial number of days supplied. We then estimate the potential reduction in cases of prolonged opioid use associated with varying prescribing limits.

Results:

We identified 1,060,596 opioid-naive surgical patients. Among the 70.0% who received an opioid for postoperative pain, 1.9% had prolonged opioid use. The risk of prolonged use increased from 0.7% (1 d supply) to 4.4% (15+ d). We estimated that a prescribing limit of 4 days would be associated with a risk reduction of 4.84 (3.59, 6.09)/1000 patients and would be associated with 2255 cases of prolonged use potentially avoided. The commonly used day supply limit of 7 would be associated with a smaller reduction in risk [absolute risk difference=2.04 (−0.17, 4.25)/1000].

Conclusions:

The risk of prolonged opioid use following surgery increased monotonically with increasing prescription duration. Common prescribing maximums based on days supplied may impact many patients but are associated with relatively low numbers of reduced cases of prolonged use. Any prescribing limits need to be weighed against the need for adequate pain management.
Disparities in Care Experienced by Older Hispanic Medicare Beneficiaries in Urban and Rural Areas
Authors: Martino Steven C. , Elliott Marc N. , Hambarsoomian Katrin , Weech-Maldonado Robert , Tamayo Loida , Gaillot Sarah , Haviland Amelia M.
Published: November 2021

Background:

Hispanic older adults face substantial health disparities compared with non–Hispanic-White (hereafter “White”) older adults. To the extent that these disparities stem from cultural and language barriers faced by Hispanic people, they may be compounded by residence in rural areas.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to investigate possible interactions between Hispanic ethnicity and rural residence in predicting the health care experiences of older adults in the United States, and whether disparities in care for rural Hispanic older adults differ in Medicare Advantage versus Medicare Fee-for-Service.

Subjects:

Medicare beneficiaries age 65 years and older who responded to the 2017–2018 nationally representative Medicare Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS) surveys.

Methods:

We fit a series of linear, case-mix–adjusted models predicting Medicare CAHPS measures of patient experience (rescaled to a 0–100 scale) from ethnicity, place of residence, and Medicare coverage type.

Results:

In all residential areas, Hispanic beneficiaries reported worse experiences with getting needed care (−3 points), getting care quickly (−4 points), and care coordination (−1 point) than White beneficiaries (all P’s<0.001). In rural areas only, Hispanic beneficiaries reported significantly worse experiences than White beneficiaries on doctor communication and customer services (−3 and −9 points, respectively, P<0.05). Tests of a 3-way interaction between ethnicity, rural residence, and coverage type were nonsignificant.

Conclusions:

There is a need to improve access to care and care coordination for Hispanic beneficiaries overall and doctor-patient communication and customer service for rural Hispanic beneficiaries. Strategies for addressing deficits faced by rural Hispanics may involve cultural competency training and provision of language-appropriate services for beneficiaries (perhaps as telehealth services).
The Virtual Hospital
Authors: Hole Colleen , Munn Lindsay Thompson , Swick Maureen
Published: November 2021

Like any disaster, the COVID-19 pandemic has presented significant challenges to healthcare systems, especially the threat of insufficient bed capacity and resources. Hospitals have been required to plan for and implement innovative approaches to expand hospital inpatient and intensive care capacity. This article presents how one of the largest healthcare systems in the United States leveraged existing technology infrastructure to create a virtual hospital that extended care beyond the walls of the “brick and mortar” hospital.
Did the Diet During Pregnancy of Mothers of Infants With Colic Differ From That of Control Infants?
Authors: Mirzanoori Mehdi , Rezaei Mohammad , Amini Shirin , Molavi Afshin
Published: November 2021

Neonatal colic is a problem in many young infants. The dietary intakes of women during pregnancy may play an important role in maternal health and fetal development and also in the health of the baby's body system after birth. The aim of this study was to compare maternal food intake during pregnancy in infants with colic and in colic-free infants. We compared reports of food intake during pregnancy of 149 women whose infants had colic with 151 women whose infants did not have colic using a retrospective food frequency questionnaire. Few differences were found in maternal dietary intake of cheese, fish, and poultry during pregnancy (P < .001, P = .002, and P = .011, respectively). In addition, mothers of infants with colic reported eating fewer fruit and vegetables than controls during pregnancy (P = .005 and P < .001, respectively). There was no significant difference between the consumption of fast foods and beverages as well as the type of dairy products and the type of oil consumed by mothers in the 2 groups. Mothers should not blame their pregnancy diet for their infants' colic, but a healthy diet has proven effects on fetal health.
Immediate comfort perception of 3D-printed foot orthoses in individuals with unilateral heel pain
Authors: Ho Malia , Nguyen Julie , Talbot Kerwin , Heales Luke , Kean Crystal , Kong Pui W. , Stanton Robert
Published: November 2021

Background:

Custom-made foot orthoses (FOs) play an integral part in managing foot disorders. Traditional FO fabrication is time-consuming and labor intensive. Three-dimensional (3D) printed FOs save time and cost compared with the traditional manufacturing process. To date, the differences in dimensions and comfort perception of these orthoses have not been compared in a pathological population.

Objective:

Compare the dimensions between 3D-printed and traditionally made FOs and comfort perception between 3D-printed, traditionally made, and no FOs in individuals with flatfeet and unilateral heel pain.

Study design:

Within-subject single-blinded randomized crossover study design.

Methods:

Thirteen participants had custom-made FOs using 3D-printing and traditional processes. Orthotic lengths, widths, arch heights, and heel cup heights were compared. Participants performed walking trials under three conditions: (1) no orthoses, (2) 3D-printed orthoses, and (3) traditionally made orthoses. Comfort perception was recorded. Orthotic dimensions were compared using paired t tests, and comfort perception were compared using one-way multiple analysis of variance and Bonferroni post hoc tests.

Results:

Three-dimensional–printed orthoses were wider, have higher arch heights, and heel cup heights compared with traditionally made FOs (medium to large effect sizes). There was a difference in comfort perception between the three orthotic conditions, F(12,62) = 1.99, P = 0.04; Wilk Λ = 0.521, η

p

2

= 0.279. Post hoc tests show that there is no difference in comfort perception between the 3D-printed and traditionally made FOs. Both FOs were significantly more comfortable than no orthoses.

Conclusions:

Three-dimensional printing seems to be a viable alternative orthotic fabrication option. Future studies should compare the biomechanical effects of 3D-printed and traditionally made FOs.
Postradiation Optic Atrophy Is Associated With Intraocular Pressure and May Manifest With Neuroretinal Rim Thinning
Authors: Dalvin Lauren A. , Deufel Christopher L. , Corbin Kimberly S. , Petersen Ivy A. , Olsen Timothy W. , Roddy Gavin W.
Published: November 2021

Background:

To determine risk factors for postradiation optic atrophy (PROA) after plaque radiotherapy for uveal melanoma.

Methods:

A single center, retrospective cohort study of patients diagnosed with uveal melanoma involving choroid and/or ciliary body treated with plaque between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2016. Outcomes included development of PROA with pallor alone or with concomitant neuroretinal rim thinning (NRT). Cox regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors for PROA.

Results:

Of 78 plaque-irradiated patients, PROA developed in 41 (53%), with concomitant NRT in 15 (19%). Risk factors for PROA of any type included presentation with worse visual acuity (odds ratio [95% confidence interval] 5.6 [2.3–14.1], P < 0.001), higher baseline intraocular pressure (IOP; 14 vs 16 mm Hg) (1.1 [1.0–1.2], P = 0.03), shorter tumor distance to optic disc (1.3 [1.2–1.5], P < 0.001) and foveola (1.2 [1.1–1.3], P < 0.001), subfoveal subretinal fluid (3.8 [2.0–7.1], P < 0.001), greater radiation prescription depth (1.3 [1.1–1.6], P = 0.002), dose to fovea (point dose) (1.01 [1.01–1.02], P < 0.001), and mean (1.02 [1.02–1.03], P < 0.001) and maximum dose to optic disc per 1 Gy increase (1.02 [1.01–1.03], P < 0.001). On multivariate modeling, dose to disc, baseline IOP, and subfoveal fluid remained significant. Subanalysis revealed risk factors for pallor with NRT of greater mean radiation dose to disc (1.03 [1.01–1.05], P = 0.003), higher maximum IOP (17 vs 20 mm Hg) (1.4 [1.2–1.7], P < 0.001), and subfoveal fluid (12 [2–63], P = 0.004).

Conclusion:

PROA may result in NRT in addition to optic disc pallor. Risk factors for PROA included higher radiation dose to optic disc, higher baseline IOP, and subfoveal fluid. Higher maximum IOP contributed to concomitant NRT.
Factorial validity and internal consistency of a practitioners’ checklist for therapists in rehabilitation
Authors: Ohura Tomoko , Tsuyama Tsutomu , Furusawa Mai , Iitsuka Terufumi
Published: November 2021

Aims:

The current study aimed to assess the validity and internal consistency of a 20-item checklist to help provide rehabilitation based on effective and clear goal setting.

Methods:

A questionnaire survey was conducted regarding rehabilitation practices followed by physical, occupational, and speech-language therapists over the past month. The questionnaire was based on a checklist covering the following four areas, each comprising five items: goal setting based on patient and family intent and therapist perspective including long-term and short-term goals; therapist's specialized analysis and focalization of problems using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health to clarify work processes and behaviors that hinder high-priority activities; proposal of plans considering the evidence and environment, which clarifies options for resolution methods (plans) and evidence; and formulation and implementation of plans including patient and family intent, which determines plan frequency and implementation period. The checklist was prepared based on medical records and previous studies by two occupational therapists who had experience in providing hospital and home-visit rehabilitation. To test the factorial validity of the 20-item checklist, confirmatory factor analysis was performed, and Cronbach's α coefficients were calculated.

Results:

The participants’ mean age was 28 (25–75th percentile, range: 25–32) years. Of the 385 participants, 163 were home-visit rehabilitation therapists. Our model revealed a fair fit to data (χ2 statistic = 602.0) and standardized path coefficients ranged from 0.67 to 0.95. Path coefficients were at least 0.41 for all 20 items. Cronbach's α for goal setting, problem analysis, problem solving method proposals, and formulation and implementation of specific plans were 0.896, 0.890, 0.935, and 0.925, respectively.

Conclusion:

Based on the assessment of therapists’ practice over 1 month using the developed checklist, the factorial validity and internal consistency of these checklist items were considered acceptable. Education based on these checklist items might support goal setting and planning and improve patient outcomes.
Borderline personality disorder and ageing: myths and realities
Authors: D’Agostino Alessandra , Pepi Raffaele , Starcevic Vladan
Published: November 2021

Purpose of review

Although mental health issues in ageing individuals have been receiving more attention, borderline personality disorder (BPD) in older adults and the elderly has been relatively neglected. This article aims to review the current state of knowledge about BPD in these age groups.

Recent findings

Studies have consistently reported decreasing prevalence rates of BPD among ageing individuals. This may be attributed to the ageing process itself and/or different clinical features due to which meeting the diagnostic criteria for BPD becomes more difficult. Ageing individuals with BPD often present in a way that makes them look ‘atypical’ compared to younger individuals with the same condition. In particular, this pertains to somewhat attenuated and less overt manifestations of impulsivity. However, the basic pattern of overall symptoms instability continues to characterize ageing individuals with BPD, in addition to depressive symptoms, feeling of emptiness, anger, unstable interpersonal relationships, turbulent responses when needs are not met, various somatic complaints and other symptoms.

Clinicians should be aware of different clinical features of BPD as patients get older. Diagnostic criteria for BPD may need to be revised to reflect this reality, allow accurate diagnosis and minimize the risk of overlooking BPD in ageing individuals.
Identification of isolated or mixed strains from long reads: a challenge met on Streptococcus thermophilus using a MinION sequencer
Authors: Siekaniec Grégoire , Roux Emeline , Lemane Téo , Guédon Eric , Nicolas Jacques
Published: November 2021

This study aimed to provide efficient recognition of bacterial strains on personal computers from MinION (Nanopore) long read data. Thanks to the fall in sequencing costs, the identification of bacteria can now proceed by whole genome sequencing. MinION is a fast, but highly error-prone sequencing device and it is a challenge to successfully identify the strain content of unknown simple or complex microbial samples. It is heavily constrained by memory management and fast access to the read and genome fragments. Our strategy involves three steps: indexing of known genomic sequences for a given or several bacterial species; a request process to assign a read to a strain by matching it to the closest reference genomes; and a final step looking for a minimum set of strains that best explains the observed reads. We have applied our method, calledORI, on 77 strains ofStreptococcus thermophilus. We worked on several genomic distances and obtained a detailed classification of the strains, together with a criterion that allows merging of what we termed ‘sibling’ strains, only separated by a few mutations. Overall, isolated strains can be safely recognized from MinION data. For mixtures of several non-sibling strains, results depend on strain abundance.
Antimicrobial resistance determinants are associated with Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia and adaptation to the healthcare environment: a bacterial genome-wide association study
Authors: Young Bernadette C. , Wu Chieh-Hsi , Charlesworth Jane , Earle Sarah , Price James R. , Gordon N. Claire , Cole Kevin , Dunn Laura , Liu Elian , Oakley Sarah , Godwin Heather , Fung Rowena , Miller Ruth , Knox Kyle , Votintseva Antonina , Quan T. Phuong , Tilley Robert , Scarborough Matthew , Crook Derrick W. , Peto Timothy E. , Walker A. Sarah , Llewelyn Martin J. , Wilson Daniel J.
Published: November 2021

Staphylococcus aureus

is a major bacterial pathogen in humans, and a dominant cause of severe bloodstream infections. Globally, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in

S. aureus

remains challenging. While human risk factors for infection have been defined, contradictory evidence exists for the role of bacterial genomic variation in

S. aureus

disease. To investigate the contribution of bacterial lineage and genomic variation to the development of bloodstream infection, we undertook a genome-wide association study comparing bacteria from 1017 individuals with bacteraemia to 984 adults with asymptomatic

S. aureus

nasal carriage. Within 984 carriage isolates, we also compared healthcare-associated (HA) carriage with community-associated (CA) carriage. All major global lineages were represented in both bacteraemia and carriage, with no evidence for different infection rates. However, kmers tagging trimethoprim resistance-conferring mutation F99Y in dfrB were significantly associated with bacteraemia-vs-carriage (P=10-8.9-10-9.3). Pooling variation within genes, bacteraemia-vs-carriage was associated with the presence of mecA (HMP=10-5.3) as well as the presence of SCCmec (HMP=10-4.4). Among

S. aureus

carriers, no lineages were associated with HA-vs-CA carriage. However, we found a novel signal of HA-vs-CA carriage in the foldase protein prsA, where kmers representing conserved sequence allele were associated with CA carriage (P=10-7.1-10-19.4), while in gyrA, a ciprofloxacin resistance-conferring mutation, L84S, was associated with HA carriage (P=10-7.2). In an extensive study of

S. aureus

bacteraemia and nasal carriage in the UK, we found strong evidence that all

S. aureus

lineages are equally capable of causing bloodstream infection, and of being carried in the healthcare environment. Genomic variation in the foldase protein prsA is a novel genomic marker of healthcare origin in

S. aureus

but was not associated with bacteraemia. AMR determinants were associated with both bacteraemia and healthcare-associated carriage, suggesting that AMR increases the propensity not only to survive in healthcare environments, but also to cause invasive disease.
Inferring ongoing cancer evolution from single tumour biopsies using synthetic supervised learning
Authors: Ouellette Tom W. , Awadalla Philip
Published: November 2021

Variant allele frequencies (VAF) encode ongoing evolution and subclonal selection in growing tumours. However, existing methods that utilize VAF information for cancer evolutionary inference are compressive, slow, or incorrectly specify the underlying cancer evolutionary dynamics. Here, we provide a proof-of-principle synthetic supervised learning method, TumE, that integrates simulated models of cancer evolution with Bayesian neural networks, to infer ongoing selection in bulk-sequenced single tumour biopsies. Analyses in synthetic and patient tumours show that TumE significantly improves both accuracy and inference time per sample when detecting positive selection, deconvoluting selected subclonal populations, and estimating subclone frequency. Importantly, we show how transfer learning can leverage stored knowledge within TumE models for related evolutionary inference tasks — substantially reducing data and computational time for further model development and providing a library of recyclable deep learning models for the cancer evolution community. This extensible framework provides a foundation and future directions for harnessing progressive computational methods for the benefit of cancer genomics and, in turn, the cancer patient. TumE is publicly available for use at https://github.com/tomouellette/TumE.
Genomic variation in the tea leafhopper reveals the basis of adaptive evolution
Authors: Zhao Qian , Shi Longqing , He Weiyi , Li Jinyu , You Shijun , Chen Shuai , Lin Jing , Wang Yibin , Zhang Liwen , Yang Guang , Vasseur Liette , You Minsheng
Published: November 2021

The tea green leafhopper (TGL), Empoasca onukii, is of biological and economic interest. Despite numerous studies, the mechanisms underlying its adaptation and evolution remain enigmatic. Here, we used previously untapped genome and population genetics approaches to examine how this pest so rapidly has adapted to different environmental variables and thus has expanded geographically. We complete a chromosome-level assembly and annotation of the E. onukii genome, showing notable expansions of gene families associated with adaptation to chemoreception and detoxification. Genomic signals indicating balancing selection highlight metabolic pathways involved in adaptation to a wide range of tea varieties grown across ecologically diverse regions. Patterns of genetic variation among 54 E. onukii samples unveil the population structure and evolutionary history across different tea-growing regions in China. Our results demonstrate that the genomic change in key pathways, including those linked to metabolism, circadian rhythms and immune system function, may underlie the successful spread and adaptation of E. onukii. This work highlights the genetic and molecular bases underlying the evolutionary success of a species with broad economic impact, and provides insight into insect adaptation to host plants, which will ultimately facilitate more sustainable pest management.
Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry identification of methanogens of clinical interest
Authors: Guindo Cheick Oumar , Amir Lynda , Couderc Carine , Drancourt Michel , Grine Ghiles
Published: November 2021

Methanogens, the archaea uniquely detoxifying fermentative hydrogen into methane in the digestive tract, are increasingly detected in pathology situations, rendering their rapid identification mandatory. We improved the experimental protocol to identify broth-cultured methanogens by matrix-assisted laser desorption time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI- TOF-MS). A database incorporating 34 reference spectra derived from 16 methanogen reference strains representative of eight species, supported further identification of 21 Methanobrevibacter smithii and 14 Methanobrevibacter oralis isolates broth-cultured from human stool and oral fluid, respectively, with scores > 2. In addition, MALDI-TOF-MS differentiated five Methanobrevibacter smithii genotypes incorporated in the study. Data here reported found MALDI-TOF-MS as a first line identification method for methanogens recovered from microbiota and clinical samples.
Genome-wide cancer-specific chromatin accessibility patterns derived from archival processed xenograft tumors
Authors: Marcel Shelsa S. , Quimby Austin L. , Noel Melodie P. , Jaimes Oscar C. , Mehrab-Mohseni Marjan , Ashur Suud A. , Velasco Brian , Tsuruta James K. , Kasoji Sandeep K. , Santos Charlene M. , Dayton Paul A. , Parker Joel S. , Davis Ian J. , Pattenden Samantha G.
Published: November 2021

Chromatin accessibility states that influence gene expression and other nuclear processes can be altered in disease. The constellation of transcription factors and chromatin regulatory complexes in cells results in characteristic patterns of chromatin accessibility. The study of these patterns in tissues has been limited because existing chromatin accessibility assays are ineffective for archival formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues. We have developed a method to efficiently extract intact chromatin from archival tissue via enhanced cavitation with a nanodroplet reagent consisting of a lipid shell with a liquid perfluorocarbon core. Inclusion of nanodroplets during the extraction of chromatin from FFPE tissues enhances the recovery of intact accessible and nucleosome-bound chromatin. We show that the addition of nanodroplets to the chromatin accessibility assay formaldehyde-assisted isolation of regulatory elements (FAIRE), does not affect the accessible chromatin signal. Applying the technique to FFPE human tumor xenografts, we identified tumor-relevant regions of accessible chromatin shared with those identified in primary tumors. Further, we deconvoluted non-tumor signal to identify cellular components of the tumor microenvironment. Incorporation of this method of enhanced cavitation into FAIRE offers the potential for extending chromatin accessibility to clinical diagnosis and personalized medicine, while also enabling the exploration of gene regulatory mechanisms in archival samples.
Novel MYO5B Mutation in Microvillous Inclusion Disease of Syrian Ancestry
Authors: Hassan Kamal , Robay Amal , Al-Maraghi Aljazi , Nimeri Nuha , Azzam Asmaa , Al Shakaki Alya , Hamid Eman , Crystal Ronald , Fakhro Khalid
Published: November 2021

Microvillus inclusion disease (MVID, MIM♯ 251850), also known as congenital microvil-lus atrophy, was first described by Davidson et al. in 1978. It is a rare au-tosomal recessive disease that presents with an intractable life-threatening watery diarrhea either within the first days of life (early-onset form) or at several months of life (late-onset form) . The hallmarks of MVID are a lack of microvilli on the surface of villous enterocytes, occurrence of microvillous inclusions and the cytoplasmic accumulation of periodic acid-schiff-positive vesicles. In 2008, Muller et al showed that mutations in MYO5B (MIM ♯ 606540), en-coding the unconventional type Vb myosin motor protein, were associated with MVID in an ex-tended Turkish kindred. Since then, more mutations were described in different populations . In this report we describe a novel mutation in two unrelated Syrian patients with MVID.
Intrinsic roughness and interfaces of Cr/Be multilayers
Authors: Pleshkov Roman , Chkhalo Nikolay , Polkovnikov Vladimir , Svechnikov Mikhail , Zorina Maria
Published: November 2021

The structures of Cr/Be multilayer mirror interfaces are investigated using X-ray reflectometry, diffuse X-ray scattering and atomic force microscopy. The combination of these methods makes it possible to separate the contributions of roughness and interlayer diffusion/intermixing for each sample. In the range of period thicknesses of 2.26–0.8 nm, it is found that the growth roughness of the Cr/Be multilayer mirrors does not depend on the period thickness and is ∼0.2 nm. The separation of roughness and diffuseness allows estimation of layer material intermixing and the resulting drop in the optical contrast, which is from 0.85 to 0.17 in comparison with an ideally sharp structure.
Modelling of interrelationships amongst enterprise and inter-enterprise information system barriers affecting digitalization in electronics supply chain
Authors: Deepu T.S. , Ravi V.
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The process of supply chain digitalization (SCD) through enterprise and inter-enterprise information systems (EIIS) is a challenging task. Understanding and studying barriers of SCD adopting EIIS are essential for better management of supply chains (SCs) in the long run. This paper analyses the key EIIS adoption barriers affecting the process of SCD.

Design/methodology/approach

Fifteen key EIIS barriers of SCD in the context of an electronic SC were identified from existing literature and in consultation with experts from industry and academia. Grey-based decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) methodology is used to identify cause–effect relationship and extent of the strength of relationship amongst EIIS barriers. Sensitivity analysis is done to verify the robustness of the study.

Findings

EIIS barriers were classified into seven major cause factors and eight effect factors. This study provides a structural framework of key EIIS adoption barriers to decision makers by classifying barriers into cause and effect groups for effective SCD and better management.

Originality/value

This study contributes to SC literature by exploring key EIIS barriers affecting the process of SCD. These findings will also help the practitioners in effective decision making for digitalization.
Host country national support to expatriates: a motivated information processing perspective
Authors: Yoon Young-Jae , Varma Arup , Katou Anastasia , Cha Youngjae , Lee Soohyun
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The support of host country nationals (HCNs) is a key determinant of expatriate adjustment and performance. The purpose of this paper is to explore underlying motivations for their support to expatriates. Previous research has shown that HCNs with pro-social motivation are more likely to help expatriates. Drawing upon motivated information processing in groups (MIP-G) theory, the authors test whether epistemic motivation moderates the observed relationship between pro-social motivation and HCNs’ support toward expatriates.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors ran two correlational studies (N = 267) in the USA (Study 1) and South Korea (Study 2). Across two studies, epistemic motivation and social motivation were measured using their multiple proxies validated in previous research. The authors also measured HCNs’ willingness to offer role information and social support to a hypothetical expatriate worker.

Findings

Results lend support to our hypotheses that pro-social HCNs are more willing than pro-self HCNs to provide role information and social support to the expatriates, but this occurs only when they have high rather than low epistemic motivation.

Originality/value

The current paper contributes the literature on HCNs helping expatriates by qualifying the prior results that a pro-social motivation (e.g. agreeableness and collectivism) increases the willingness of HCNs to help expatriates. As hypothesized, this study found that that case is only true when HCNs have high, rather than low, epistemic motivation. Also, previous research on MIP-G theory has mainly focused on the performance of small groups (e.g. negotiation, creativity and decision-making). To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research is the first attempt to test MIP-G theory in the context of HCNs helping expatriates.
Nonlocal fractal calculus based analyses of electrical circuits on fractal set
Authors: Banchuin Rawid
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the analyses of electrical circuits with arbitrary source terms defined on middle b cantor set by means of nonlocal fractal calculus and to evaluate the appropriateness of such unconventional calculus.

Design/methodology/approach

The nonlocal fractal integro-differential equations describing RL, RC, LC and RLC circuits with arbitrary source terms defined on middle b cantor set have been formulated and solved by means of fractal Laplace transformation. Numerical simulations based on the derived solutions have been performed where an LC circuit has been studied by means of Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formalisms. The nonlocal fractal calculus-based Lagrangian and Hamiltonian equations have been derived and the local fractal calculus-based ones have been revisited.

Findings

The author has found that the LC circuit defined on a middle b cantor set become a physically unsound system due to the unreasonable associated Hamiltonian unless the local fractal calculus has been applied instead.

Originality/value

For the first time, the nonlocal fractal calculus-based analyses of electrical circuits with arbitrary source terms have been performed where those circuits with order higher than 1 have also been analyzed. For the first time, the nonlocal fractal calculus-based Lagrangian and Hamiltonian equations have been proposed. The revised contradiction free local fractal calculus-based Lagrangian and Hamiltonian equations have been presented. A comparison of local and nonlocal fractal calculus in terms of Lagrangian and Hamiltonian formalisms have been made where a drawback of the nonlocal one has been pointed out.
How does disruptive innovation influence firm performance? A moderated mediation model
Authors: Wang Chenxiao , Guo Feng , Zhang Qingpu
Published: November 2021

Purpose

Based on the literature on disruptive innovation, this research explores how disruptive innovation directly and indirectly (via innovation speed and innovation quality) influences firm performance in relation to the contingency of market-supporting institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 207 firms was gathered through questionnaires targeting senior managers and R&D managers from high-tech firms in China with two waves including explanatory variables and outcome variables.

Findings

This empirical results indicate that disruptive innovation positively affects firm performance, and that innovation speed and innovation quality mediate the relationship between disruptive innovation and firm performance. Meanwhile, market-supporting institutions positively moderate the relationship between innovation speed and firm performance, but negatively moderate the relationship between innovation quality and firm performance.

Research limitations/implications

This study suggests that disruptive innovation is important to firm performance, innovation speed and innovation quality play mediating roles, and market-supporting institutions acts as moderating effects. A research limitation is that the data were collected mainly through a questionnaire.

Practical implications

Firms should incorporate disruptive innovation as an important strategy and improve innovation speed and innovation quality to promote firm performance, and policymakers should improve the levels of market-supporting institutions to facilitate innovation and performance.

Originality/value

This study contributes the literature of disruptive innovation by uncovering the positive effect of disruptive innovation and firm performance and the mediating effects of innovation speed and innovation quality on the abovementioned relationship, and revealing their contingency effects of market-supporting institutions.
Common causes in grassroot development: a case for community-based and community-driven response in the postpandemic era
Authors: Patrick-Agulonye Uzoma Vincent
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine the impact of community-based and driven approaches during the lockdowns and early periods of the pandemic. The study examines the impact and perceptions of the state-led intervention. This would help to discover a better approach for postpandemic interventions and policy responses.

Design/methodology/approach

This article used the inductive method and gathered its data from surveys. In search of global opinions on COVID-19 responses received in communities, two countries in each continent with high COVID-19 infection per 100,000 during the peak period were chosen for study. In total, 13 community workers, leaders and members per continent were sampled. The simple percentile method was chosen for analysis. The simple interpretation was used to discuss the results.

Findings

The study showed that poor publicity of community-based interventions affected awareness and fame as most were mistaken for government interventions. The study found that most respondents preferred state interventions but preferred many communities or local assessments of projects and interventions while the projects were ongoing to adjust the project and intervention as they progressed. However, many preferred community-based and driven interventions.

Research limitations/implications

State secrecy and perceived opposition oppression limited data sourcing for this study in countries where state interventions are performed in secret and oppression of perceived opposition voices limited data collection in some countries. Thus, last-minute changes were made to gather data from countries on the same continent. An intercontinental study requires data from more countries, which would require more time and resources. This study was affected by access to locals in remote areas where raw data would have benefited the study.

Practical implications

The absence of data from the two most populous countries due to government censorship limits access to over a third of the global population, as they make up 2.8 out of 7 billion.

Social implications

The choice of two countries in each continent is representational enough, yet the absence of data from the two most populous countries creates a social identity gap.

Originality/value

The survey collected unique and genuine data and presents novel results. Thus, this study provides an important contribution to the literature on the subject. There is a need for maximum support for community-based interventions and projects as well as global data collection on community-based or driven interventions and projects.
Sodium content of menu and commissary provisions in rural jail exceeds heart-healthy dietary recommendations
Authors: Kuss Bonnie , Lopez Nanette V. , Hardy Shakia T. , Spilkin Ary , Brauer Julianne , Phillips Rachelle , Delio Gabrielle , Camplain Ricky
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This paper determined sodium provisions from a seven-day cycle menu and commissary at a rural Southwest County jail and compared it to Dietary Reference Intakes (DRI) and Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) recommendations for sodium.

Design/methodology/approach

A seven-day cycle menu and commissary items were used to determine sodium content for each meal and commissary pack. Estimates for the menu and commissary packs paired with the menu (commissary scenarios) were converted to a daily average of sodium and compared to DRI and DASH recommendations.

Findings

Menu provisions provided 167% of daily DRI sodium recommendations and 256% of daily DASH sodium recommendations. The sodium content for individual commissary scenarios averaged 218% of DRI and 334% of DASH recommendations. Commissary items are notably high in sodium and if eaten can significantly exceed dietary recommendations.

Originality/value

Small changes to one meal within the cycle menu and the inclusion of fresh or frozen produce could reduce sodium content to align with DRI and DASH recommendations.
Education for sustainable development at Chemnitz University of Technology
Authors: Albert Martin , Uhlig Maria
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the current state of education for sustainable development (ESD) at Chemnitz University of Technology (CUT) and to propose a guide for analysing sustainability at higher education institutions (HEI) in terms of implementation of the sustainable development goals (SDGs) and sustainability dimensions in the cognitive domain of education.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses a new combination of two frameworks, the “Phase Model of Sustainability in MBA (Master of Business Administration) Education”, developed by Hart et al. (2017), to classify sustainability-focused topics and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO’s) learning objectives for ESD (UNESCO, 2017) to classify sustainability-related topics. This paper analysed CUT’s study programs and faculties, the websites of the study programs and the (junior) professorships, using documentary analysis with a new set of keywords relating to the topic of incorporating sustainability in curricula.

Findings

The faculties and study programs of CUT are at different stages of integrating ESD. However, topics such as sustainable energy and production, recycling, sustainable management and innovation are prominent in the educational offerings of CUT. As the university is a technical university, the focus on these topics reflects the general direction of the organisation. Based on this study results, this study gives recommendations for further development for ESD at CUT.

Originality/value

This paper presents the case of CUT and a new guide for analysing sustainability at HEI, including recommendations for further development in relation to ESD.
Numerical and experimental study on the effect of surface texture with roughness orientation considered under a mixed lubrication state
Authors: Wang Junru , Wang Quandai , Li Yueyan , Guo Meiling , Li Pengyang , Li Yan
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of surface texture with roughness orientation considered on tribological properties under a mixed lubrication state numerically and experimentally.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the average Reynolds equation and asperity contact model, the impacts of surface texture parameters and roughness orientation on lubrication properties have been calculated using finite difference method. Tin–bronze samples with various prescribed surface texture geometric parameters and roughness orientation were fabricated by laser surface texturing technique, and the tribology performance of the textured surface was studied experimentally.

Findings

The effects of surface geometric parameters and roughness orientation parameters have been discerned. The experimental observations are in good agreement with the numerical prediction, which suggests that the numerical scheme adopted in this work is suitable in capturing the surface texture and roughness effect under mixed lubrication state.

Originality/value

By meticulously controlling the surface roughness and surface texture geometric characteristics based on the laser surface texturing process, samples with prescribed surface texture parameters and roughness orientation consistent with that in theoretical studies were fabricated and the theoretical model and results were verified experimentally.
Creating sustainability reports that matter: an investigation of factors behind the narratives
Authors: Al-Shaer Habiba , Albitar Khaldoon , Hussainey Khaled
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to provide a novel approach to examine sustainability report narratives by considering key features of these narratives including, forward-looking content, risk content, tone and sustainability-specific content.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a sample of UK firms' sustainability reports from 2014 to 2018, the authors capture the report content by compiling a collection of words using a computational linguistic technique that attempts to identify specific attributes of sustainability reports.

Findings

The findings show the main factors that determine the content of sustainability reports are: (1) external governance-related factors, including the voluntary adoption of sustainability reporting assurance, the choice of assurance provider, stakeholder engagement and ownership concentration; (2) internal governance factors, including board quality and the existence of a sustainability committee; and (3) reporting behaviour including the publication of standardised Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) sustainability reports and financial reporting quality.

Research limitations/implications

The authors limit our sample to companies operated in the UK. Future research can explore the results in other institutional contexts such as North America or Asia–Pacific where the governance of sustainability reporting and other factors determining the content of sustainability reports could be different. Also, it would be interesting to interview managers and other stakeholders to obtain their opinions with regard to sustainability reporting and assurance practices and to understand their opinions regarding the GRI guidelines and its appropriateness. This study combines different research streams to advance our understanding of sustainability disclosures and factors that determine sustainability narratives.

Practical implications

Corporate managers need to strengthen their internal and external governance mechanisms to enhance the comprehensiveness and credibility of sustainability reports and are encouraged to engage stakeholders in the sustainability reporting process. Policymakers can mandate the assurance of sustainability reports and establish reporting formats and standard words to control the tone of sustainability reports. Finally, researchers, professionals as well as policymakers need to monitor sustainable development goals and targets to increase awareness, knowledge and practices that can be operationalised to ensure a global society that can afford sustainable living.

Originality/value

To the best of our knowledge, no study has yet examined sustainability report narratives by considering key features of these reports, including forward-looking content, risk content, tone and sustainability-specific content.
Impact of COVID-19 on the drivers of cash-based online transactions and consumer behaviour: evidence from a Muslim market
Authors: Khan Falak , Ateeq Saad , Ali Momin , Butt Nouman
Published: November 2021

Purpose

Pakistan is predominantly a cash-based economy, with consumers showing several traits ranging from low confidence on the electronic commerce security, poor access to banking, absence of widespread awareness of e-payments and other religious and psychological barriers to adopting alternatives to cash. This study aims to examine e-payment modes in Pakistan with respect to their impact on supplier and consumer behaviour before and during the pandemic times.

Design/methodology/approach

The research follows a qualitative approach. Focus groups and interviews are conducted to carry out an in-depth analysis of consumer and supplier behaviour.

Findings

The findings show that customers are not satisfied with the current e-commerce system in Pakistan, whereas though producers prefer prepayments, they are forced to rely on cash on delivery. However, due to the recent COVID-19 outbreak, consumers are going cashless to avoid physical cash and observe safety protocols. To convert this temporary and enforced patronage of online transactions into a long-term and sustainable one, massive marketing and a combined effort from the government, private bodies and financial institutions is required.

Research limitations/implications

The study was conducted using online interviews which has the drawback of connection issues, delays and lags in the connectivity, and hence may lead to miss important gestures for data analysis.

Originality/value

This research can be of benefit to online consumers and the supplier side of the online retail industry, by providing them with insight into the various factors that affect consumer behaviour towards e-commerce payment options. An understanding of the behavioural motivators of consumers will allow e-retailers in developing more marketing strategies that are effective, to improve the satisfaction level of their customers and contribute to the development of Pakistan’s e-commerce sector into a globally competitive one.