bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical usability, reliability, and repeatability of noncontact scanners in measuring residual limb volume in persons with transtibial amputation
Authors: Kofman Rianne , Winter Raoul E , Emmelot Cornelis H , Geertzen Jan HB , Dijkstra Pieter U
Published: December 2021

Background:

In previous studies, noncontact 3D scanners were found to be the most reliable in measuring volume of the residual limb after a transtibial amputation (TTA). Meanwhile newly developed noncontact scanners became available to measure residual limb volume after TTA but should be tested for clinical usability and reliability.

Objective:

To determine the clinical usability, reliability, and repeatability of noncontact scanners in measuring residual limb volume in persons with a TTA.

Study design:

Original research report; repeated measurements.

Methods:

Three noncontact scanners (Rodin4D, Omega Tracer, and Biosculptor) were used to measure the residual limb volume on two occasions by two observers in 30 persons with an unilateral or bilateral TTA. Clinical usability was assessed as scores of the Post-Study System Usability Questionnaire, participant satisfaction (0–10 scale), and time to take the measurement.

Results:

The usability score of the Omega Scanner 3D (123.4) and Rodin4D (121.3) was significantly better compared with the Biosculptor (117.8). Participant experience was equal for all. The residual variance was 8.4%, where participant and scanning system explained most of the error variance (80.7%). Repeatability coefficients of the systems were 16.5 cc (Omega Scanner 3D), 26.4 cc (Rodin4D), and 32.8 cc (Biosculptor). The time to perform the measurements was significantly longer (+80 seconds) for the Omega Scanner 3D.

Conclusions

For measuring residual limb volume in TT amputees, Omega software (state version 12.2) combined with the Rodin4D scanner was more usable and reliable than the Rodin 4D or Biosculptor systems, when operated by staff with limited experience and training.
A Computational Dissection of Spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Variant
Authors: Rehman Zaira , Umair Massab , Ikram Aamer , Salman Muhammad , Haider Syed Adnan , Ammar Muhammad
Published: December 2021

The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 omicron variant in late November, 2021 and its rapid spread to different countries, warns the health authorities to take initiative to work on containing its spread. The omicron SARS-CoV-2 variant is unusual from the other variants of concerns reported earlier as it harbors many novel mutations in its genome particularly with >30 mutations in the spike glycoprotein alone. The current study investigated the variation in binding mechanism which it carries compared to the wild type. The study also explored the interaction profile of spike-omicron with human ACE2 receptor. The structure of omicron spike glycoprotein was determined though homology modeling. The interaction analysis was performed through docking using HADDOCK followed by binding affinity calculation. Finally, the comparison of interactions were performed among spike-ACE2 complex of wild type, delta and omicron variants. The interaction analysis has revealed the involvement of highly charged and polar residues (H505, Arg498, Ser446, Arg493, and Tyr501) in the interactions. The important novel interactions in the spike-ACE2-omicron complex was observed as S494:H34, S496:D38, R498:Y41, Y501:K353, and H505:R393 and R493:D38. Moreover, the binding affinity of spike-ACE2-omicron complex (−17.6Kcal/mol) is much higher than wild type-ACE2 (−13.2Kcal/mol) and delta-ACE2 complex (−13.3Kcal/mol). These results indicate that the involvement of polar and charged residues in the interactions with ACE2 may have an impact on increased transmissibility of omicron variant.
Mitochondria-mediated Maternal-fetal Interactions and Consequences of Mitochondrial Dysregulation Indicate New Roles for Mitochondria in Hypertensive Pregnancies
Authors: Ricci Contessa A. , Reid Danielle M. , Sun Jie , Santillan Donna A. , Santillan Mark K. , Goulopoulou Styliani , Phillips Nicole R.
Published: December 2021

Oxidative stress, placental mitochondrial morphological alterations, and impaired bioenergetics are associated with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Here we examined mitochondrial DNA mutational load in pregnant women with pregnancy-induced hypertension and reanalyzed publicly available high-throughput transcriptomic datasets from maternal and fetal tissues from normotensive and hypertensive pregnancies. Mitochondrial dysregulation was indicated by aberrant mitochondrial gene expression, and putative consequences were examined. Women with hypertensive pregnancy had elevated mitochondrial DNA mutational load. Maternal mitochondrial dysregulation in hypertensive pregnancies was associated with pathways involved in inflammation, cell death/survival, and placental development. In fetal tissues from hypertensive pregnancies, mitochondrial dysregulation was associated with increased extracellular vesicle production. Our study demonstrates mitochondria-mediated maternal-fetal interactions during healthy pregnancy and maternal mitochondrial dysregulation in hypertensive pregnancy development.
The Roles of APOBEC-mediated RNA Editing in SARS-CoV-2 Mutations, Replication and Fitness
Authors: Kim Kyumin , Calabrese Peter , Wang Shanshan , Qin Chao , Rao Youliang , Feng Pinghui , Chen Xiaojiang S.
Published: December 2021

During COVID-19 pandemic, mutations of SARS-CoV-2 produce new strains that can be more infectious or evade vaccines. Viral RNA mutations can arise from misincorporation by RNA-polymerases and modification by host factors. Analysis of SARS-CoV-2 sequence from patients showed a strong bias toward C-to-U mutation, suggesting a potential mutational role by host APOBEC cytosine deaminases that possess broad anti-viral activity. We report the first experimental evidence demonstrating that APOBEC3A, APOBEC1, and APOBEC3G can edit on specific sites of SARS-CoV-2 RNA to produce C-to-U mutations. However, SARS-CoV-2 replication and viral progeny production in Caco-2 cells are not inhibited by the expression of these APOBECs. Instead, expression of wild-type APOBEC3 greatly promotes viral replication/propagation, suggesting that SARS-CoV-2 utilizes the APOBEC-mediated mutations for fitness and evolution. Unlike the random mutations, this study suggests the predictability of all possible viral genome mutations by these APOBECs based on the UC/AC motifs and the viral genomic RNA structure.

One-sentence summary

Efficient Editing of SARS-CoV-2 genomic RNA by Host APOBEC deaminases and Its Potential Impacts on the Viral Replication and Emergence of New Strains in COVID-19 Pandemic
Short-term Ketogenic Diet Induces a Molecular Response that is Distinct from Dietary Protein Restriction
Authors: Kalafut Krystle C. , Mitchell Sarah J. , MacArthur Michael R. , Mitchell James R.
Published: December 2021

There is increasing interest in utilizing short-term dietary interventions in the contexts of cancer, surgical stress and metabolic disease. These short-term diets may be more feasible than extended interventions and may be designed to complement existing therapies. In particular, the high-fat, low-carbohydrate ketogenic diet (KD), traditionally used to treat epilepsy, has gained popularity as a potential strategy for weight loss and improved metabolic health. In mice, long-term KD improves insulin sensitivity and extends lifespan and healthspan. Dietary protein restriction (PR) causes increased energy expenditure, weight loss and improved glucose homeostasis. Since KD is inherently a low-protein diet (10% of calories from protein vs. 20% in control diet), here we evaluated the potential for mechanistic overlap between PR and KD via activation of a PR response. Mice were fed control, protein-free, or one of four ketogenic diets with varying protein content for 8 days. PF and KD diets both decreased body weight, fat mass, and liver weights, and reduced fasting glucose and insulin levels, compared to mice fed the control diet. However, PF and KD differed with respect to insulin tolerance and hepatic insulin sensitivity, which were increased in PF-fed mice and impaired in KD-fed mice relative to controls. Furthermore, contrary to the PF-fed mice, mice fed ketogenic diets containing at least 5% protein did not increase hepatic Fgf21 or brown adipose Ucp1 expression. Interestingly, mice fed KD lacking protein demonstrated greater elevations in hepatic Fgf21 than mice fed a low-fat PF diet. To further elucidate potential mechanistic differences between PF and KD diets and the interplay between dietary protein and carbohydrate restriction, we conducted RNA-seq analysis on livers from mice fed each of the six diets and identified distinct gene sets which respond to dietary protein content, dietary fat content, and ketogenesis. We conclude that KD with 10% of energy from protein does not induce a protein restriction response, and that the overlapping metabolic benefits of KD and PF diets occur via distinct underlying mechanisms.
A tRNA-acetylating toxin and detoxifying enzyme inMycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Tomasi Francesca G. , Hall Alexander M. J. , Schweber Jessica T. P. , Dulberger Charles L. , McGowen Kerry , Liu Qingyun , Fortune Sarah M. , Helaine Sophie , Rubin Eric J.
Published: December 2021

Toxin-antitoxin (TA) systems allow bacteria to adapt to changing environments without altering gene expression. Despite being overrepresented inMycobacterium tuberculosis(Mtb), their individual physiological roles remain elusive. We describe a TA system inMtbwhich we have named TacAT due to its homology to previously discovered systems in Salmonella. The toxin, TacT, blocks growth by acetylating glycyl-tRNAs and inhibiting translation. Its effects are reversed by the enzyme peptidyl tRNA hydrolase (Pth), which also cleaves peptidyl tRNAs that are prematurely released from stalled ribosomes. Pth is essential in most bacteria and thereby has been proposed as a promising drug target for complex pathogens likeMtb. Transposon sequencing data suggest that thetacAToperon is nonessential forMtbgrowthin vitro, and premature stop mutations in this TA system present in some clinical isolates suggest that it is also dispensablein vivo. We assessed whether TacT modulatespthessentiality inMtb, as drugs targeting Pth might be ineffective if TacAT is disrupted. We find thatpthessentiality is unaffected by the absence oftacAT. These results highlight a fundamental aspect of mycobacterial biology and indicate that Pth’s essential role hinges on its peptidyl-tRNA hydrolase activity. Our work underscores Pth’s potential as a viable target for new antibiotics.
Amino acid availability determines plant immune homeostasis in the rhizosphere microbiome
Authors: Liu Yang , Han Jiatong , Wilson Andrew J. , O’Sullivan Lucy , Haney Cara H.
Published: December 2021

Microbes possess conserved microbe-associated molecular patterns (MAMPs) such as flagellin that are recognized by plant receptors to induce immunity. Despite containing the same MAMPs as pathogens, commensals thrive in the plant rhizosphere microbiome indicating they must suppress or evade host immunity. The beneficial bacteria Pseudomonas capeferrum WCS358 can suppress Arabidopsis root immunity via acidification by secreting gluconic acid. While gluconic acid is sufficient to suppress immunity, we found that it is not necessary in a second beneficial strain Pseudomonas simiae WCS417, which produces more gluconic acid than WCS358. To uncover mechanisms that contribute to the suppression of Arabidopsis immunity, we performed a forward genetic screen in EMS-mutagenized P. simiae WCS417 using a flagellin-inducible CYP71A12pro:GUS reporter as an Arabidopsis immune readout. We identified a mutant that cannot suppress flagellin-elicited CYP71A12pro:GUS expression or acidify the rhizosphere. Next generation sequencing revealed a mutation in the catabolic site of an ornithine carbamoyltransferase argF, which is required for arginine biosynthesis. The mutant could be complemented by expression of argF from a plasmid, and a ΔargF mutant could not suppress immunity. Fungal pathogens can use alkalization through production of ammonia and glutamate, the arginine biosynthetic precursors, to promote their own growth and virulence. Therefore, we hypothesized that the biosynthesis of specific amino acids may be necessary to reduce levels of ammonia and glutamate to prevent rhizosphere alkalization and bacterial overgrowth. Genetically blocking arginine, glutamine, or proline biosynthesis, or by adding corresponding exogenous amino acids, resulted in rhizosphere alkalization. Interestingly, exogenous amino acids caused bacterial overgrowth in a gluconic acid-deficient mutants. Our findings show that bacterial amino acid biosynthesis contributes to acidification by preventing accumulation of glutamate precursors and the resulting alkalization. Collectively this work shows that by regulating nutrient availability, plants have the potential to regulate their immune homeostasis in the rhizosphere microbiome.
Platr4is an ESC-specific lncRNA that exhibits its function downstream on meso/endoderm lineage commitment
Authors: Hazra Rasmani , Brine Lily , Garcia Libia , Benz Brian , Chirathivat Napon , Shen Michael M. , Wilkinson John Erby , Lyons Scott K. , Spector David L.
Published: December 2021

The mammalian genome encodes thousands of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) that are developmentally regulated and differentially expressed across tissues, suggesting possible roles in cellular differentiation. Despite this expression pattern, little is known about how lncRNAs influence lineage commitment at the molecular level. Here, we reveal that perturbation of an embryonic stem cell (ESC)-specific lncRNA,Pluripotency associated transcript 4(Platr4), in ESCs directly influences the downstream meso/endoderm differentiation program without affecting pluripotency. We further show thatPlatr4interacts with the TEA domain transcription factor 4 (Tead4) to regulate the expression of a downstream target gene crucial in the cardiac lineage program known as connective tissue growth factor (Ctgf). Importantly,Platr4knockout mice exhibit myocardial atrophy, valve mucinous degenration associated with reduced cardiac output and sudden heart failure. Together, our findings provide evidence thatPlatr4expression in undifferentiated ESCs is critical for downstream lineage differentiation, highlighting its importance in disease modeling and regenerative medicine.
Nonmuscle myosin IIA dynamically guides regulatory light chain phosphorylation and assembly of nonmuscle myosin IIB
Authors: Weißenbruch Kai , Fladung Magdalena , Grewe Justin , Baulesch Laurent , Schwarz Ulrich S. , Bastmeyer Martin
Published: December 2021

Nonmuscle myosin II minifilaments have emerged as central elements for force generation and mechanosensing by mammalian cells. Each minifilament can have a different composition and activity due to the existence of the three nonmuscle myosin II isoforms A, B and C and their respective phosphorylation pattern. We have used CRISPR/Cas9-based knockout cells, quantitative image analysis and mathematical modelling to dissect the dynamic processes that control the formation and activity of heterotypic minifilaments and found a strong asymmetry between isoforms A and B. Loss of NM IIA completely abrogates regulatory light chain phosphorylation and reduces the level of assembled NM IIB. Activated NM IIB preferentially co-assembles into pre-formed NM IIA minifilaments and stabilizes the filament in a force-dependent mechanism. NM IIC is only weakly coupled to these processes. We conclude that NM IIA and B play clearly defined complementary roles during assembly of functional minifilaments. NM IIA is responsible for the formation of nascent pioneer minifilaments. NM IIB incorporates into these and acts as a clutch that limits the force output to prevent excessive NM IIA activity. Together these two isoforms form a balanced system for regulated force generation.
Neuronal circuits integrating visual motion information in Drosophila
Authors: Shinomiya Kazunori , Nern Aljoscha , Meinertzhagen Ian A. , Plaza Stephen M. , Reiser Michael B.
Published: December 2021

The detection of visual motion enables sophisticated animal navigation, and studies in flies have provided profound insights into the cellular and circuit basis of this neural computation. The fly’s directionally selective T4 and T5 neurons respectively encode ON and OFF motion. Their axons terminate in one of four retinotopic layers in the lobula plate, where each layer encodes one of four cardinal directions of motion. While the input circuitry of the directionally selective neurons has been studied in detail, the synaptic connectivity of circuits integrating T4/T5 motion signals is largely unknown. Here we report a 3D electron microscopy reconstruction, wherein we comprehensively identified T4/T5’s synaptic partners in the lobula plate, revealing a diverse set of new cell types and attributing new connectivity patterns to known cell types. Our reconstruction explains how the ON and OFF motion pathways converge. T4 and T5 cells that project to the same layer, connect to common synaptic partners symmetrically, that is with similar weights, and also comprise a core motif together with bilayer interneurons, detailing the circuit basis for computing motion opponency. We discovered pathways that likely encode new directions of motion by integrating vertical and horizontal motion signals from upstream T4/T5 neurons. Finally, we identify substantial projections into the lobula, extending the known motion pathways and suggesting that directionally selective signals shape feature detection there. The circuits we describe enrich the anatomical basis for experimental and computations analyses of motion vision and bring us closer to understanding complete sensory-motor pathways.
Epigenomic translocation of H3K4me3 broad domains over oncogenes following hijacking of super-enhancers
Authors: Mikulasova Aneta , Kent Daniel , Trevisan-Herraz Marco , Karataraki Nefeli , Fung Kent T.M. , Ashby Cody , Cieslak Agata , Yaccoby Shmuel , van Rhee Frits , Zangari Maurizio , Thanendrarajan Sharmilan , Schinke Carolina , Morgan Gareth J. , Asnafi Vahid , Spicuglia Salvatore , Brackley Chris A. , Corcoran Anne E. , Hambleton Sophie , Walker Brian A. , Rico Daniel , Russell Lisa J.
Published: December 2021

Chromosomal translocations are important drivers of haematological malignancies whereby proto-oncogenes are activated by juxtaposition with enhancers, often calledenhancer hijacking. We analyzed the epigenomic consequences of rearrangements between the super-enhancers of the immunoglobulin heavy locus (IGH) and proto-oncogeneCCND1that are common in B cell malignancies. By integrating BLUEPRINT epigenomic data with DNA breakpoint detection, we characterized the normal chromatin landscape of the humanIGHlocus and its dynamics after pathological genomic rearrangement. We detected an H3K4me3 broad domain (BD) within theIGHlocus of healthy B cells that was absent in samples withIGH-CCND1translocations. The appearance of H3K4me3-BD overCCND1in the latter was associated with overexpression and extensive chromatin accessibility of its gene body. We observed similar cancer-specific H3K4me3-BDs associated with hijacking of super-enhancers of other common oncogenes in B cell (MAF,MYC, andFGFR3/NSD2) and T cell malignancies (LMO2,TLX3, andTAL1). Our analysis suggests that H3K4me3-BDs can be created by super-enhancers and supports the new concept ofepigenomic translocation, in which the relocation of H3K4me3-BDs from cell identity genes to oncogenes accompanies the translocation of super-enhancers.
Board level “Picture-Understanding-Action”: a new way of looking at quality
Authors: Martin Jennifer , Flynn Maureen A. , Khurshid Zuneera , Fitzsimons John J. , Moore Gemma , Crowley Philip
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to present a quality improvement approach titled “Picture-Understanding-Action” used in Ireland to enhance the role of healthcare boards in the oversight of healthcare quality and its improvement.

Design/methodology/approach

The novel and practical “Picture-Understanding-Action” approach was implemented using the Model for Improvement to iteratively introduce changes across three quality improvement projects. This approach outlines the concepts and activities used at each step to support planning and implementation of processes that allow a board to effectively achieve its role in overseeing and improving quality. This approach matured over three quality improvement projects.

Findings

The “Picture” included quantitative and qualitative aspects. The quantitative “Picture” consisted of a quality dashboard/profile of board selected outcome indicators representative of the health system using statistical process control (SPC) charts to focus discussion on real signals of change. The qualitative picture was based on the experience of people who use and work in health services which “people-ised” the numbers. Probing this “Picture” with collective grounding, curiosity and expert training/facilitation developed a shared “Understanding”. This led to “Action(s)” from board members to improve the “Picture” and “Understanding” (feedback action), to ask better questions and make better decisions and recommendations to the executive (feed-forward action). The Model for Improvement, Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles and a co-design approach in design and implementation were key to success.

Originality/value

To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first time a board has undertaken a quality improvement (QI) project to enhance its own processes. It addresses a gap in research by outlining actions that boards can take to improve their oversight of quality of care.
Capturing behavioural outcomes through branded applications: the perspective of the investment model
Authors: Tseng Timmy H. , Hsieh Sara H. , Lee Crystal T.
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Numerous companies have launched branded applications to foster consumer–brand relationships. Due to fierce competition among branded apps, the retention rate is quite low. The facilitation of behavioural outcomes through branded apps is a highly relevant research area. This paper investigates the drivers of behavioural outcomes in the context of branded apps from an investment model perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

This work examines various branded apps primarily used by consumers in disparate product categories, namely, Target, Walmart, Under Armour, Nike, Pandora, Spotify, Starbucks, Burger King, Disney and Netflix. Four hundred and one valid online questionnaires were obtained and partial least squares structural equation modelling was used for data analysis.

Findings

The results obtained extend the investment model to the context of branded apps and show that app investment size and app satisfaction facilitate brand relationship commitment, successively enhancing app continuance intention, brand purchase intention and app word-of-mouth (WOM) intention. Furthermore, app confidence benefits and self-enhancement benefits facilitate app satisfaction, while app social benefits and special treatment benefits facilitate app investment size.

Originality/value

The present work applies an investment model to various branded apps to show how relationship components facilitate behavioural outcomes. We contribute to the literature by identifying four types of app relational benefits as drivers of relationship components in the context of branded apps.
Role of safety in declining public transport use: Empirical evidence from India
Authors: Saigal Taru , Vaish Arun Kr , Rao N.V.M.
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Using primary survey data from an urban area in Global North, this study aims to examine the impact of sociodemographic factors on perception of usefulness of public transport and the importance of safety in preferring private modes of transport over public.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses stratified random sampling technique to collect data on travel behavior and socioeconomic characteristics. Descriptive statistics complemented with bivariate probit model and seemingly unrelated bivariate probit model is implemented on the data obtained.

Findings

The study finds that women, unmarried individuals, the youngest age group, least educated individuals and those who are working are expected to finding public transport more useful as compared to their respective counterparts. Despite finding the mode most useful, women are more likely to find it unsafe to travel.

Research limitations/implications

The study calls attention to not only dealing with the infrastructural changes in system but also with those attached insecurities which limit its use.

Originality/value

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time a comprehensive evaluation of the demands and challenges for transportation services faced by different segments of the society is carried out in this section of the developing world.
Financial globalization and income inequality nexus: panel quantile regression approach
Authors: Kebede Jeleta Gezahegne , Tawiah Vincent
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The general purpose of the paper is to examine the effect of financial globalization on income inequality. The specific purposes are: 1) To examine the effect of overall financial globalization on income inequality. 2) To analyze whether de facto and de jure financial globalization have differential effects on income inequality. 3) To scrutinize whether the effect of financial globalization on income inequality varies across countries of different income groups and quantiles of income inequality.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors employed panel quantile regression using 73 countries over 2000–2016 to examine the effect of financial globalization on income inequality. The authors employed fixed effect and panel quantile regressions and classified the countries into income groups to compare differential effects of financial globalization across different income groups. Further, the authors unbundled financial globalization into de facto and de jure financial globalizations to investigate whether their effects on income inequality vary.

Findings

Overall financial globalization raises income inequality more at lower quantiles of inequality. De jure financial globalization reduces income inequality in high-income countries. In high-income countries, de jure financial globalization has more favorable income distribution at lower quantiles of inequality. In contrast, de facto financial globalization raises inequality regardless of income classification of the countries.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the authors for the first time employed panel quantile regression to analyze whether financial globalization affects income inequality across different quantiles. In addition to de facto globalization, the authors used the newly developed de jure financial globalization index to examine its impact on income inequality. The de jure dimension is largely neglected in the literature. The authors provide empirical evidence on how the different dimensions of financial globalization, de facto and de jure, impact inequality in high-income, middle-income and low-income countries.
Effects of parental entrepreneurial performance on the mode of entrepreneurial entry by the next-generation family members: evidence from an emerging economy
Authors: Muigai Sarah Watiri , Mungai Edward , Velamuri S. Ramakrishna
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to examine the effects of perceived parental entrepreneurial rewards, or PPERs (i.e. the offspring's perception of the degree of parental success in entrepreneurship), on the corporate venturing (CV) mode of entrepreneurial entry and the interaction effects of family business involvement (FBI) and formal employment on the association between PPER and CV by the next-generation family members.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was administered to a sample of 738 small business owners in Kenya; of which, 440 small business owners were selected because they grew up in a family business context. A probit model was used to examine the main and interaction effects.

Findings

PPERs significantly influenced CV. FBI improves the positive relationship whereas formal employment reduces the effects of PPER on CV.

Practical implications

Families in business need to improve conversations with their children to include discussions concerning the intrinsic and extrinsic rewards of running a family business, which may shape not only the entrepreneurial entry path of their offspring but also the willingness to establish businesses that may grow and lead to continuity of the family business of origin.

Originality/value

The study investigates the effect of being embedded in a business family in shaping the CV mode of entrepreneurial entry by the next-generation family members who may not, on the one hand, find independent own founding an attractive option and for whom, on the other hand, the succession mode of entry may not be an option.
Bring recovery to young people: the development of a “discovery college” in Ireland
Authors: Costello Chloe
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Discovery Colleges are new, exciting innovations. The purpose of this paper is to describe the process of developing and implementing the first pilot of a Discovery College for young people in Ireland. This paper aims to assist in providing direction for future comparable projects.

Design/methodology/approach

The author takes a narrative approach to highlight the rationale for introducing the Discovery College model into an Irish context and to outline the project phases and participant feedback.

Findings

The pilot project is outlined and the key learnings are explained.

Originality/value

Recovery Education is a growing model both nationally and internationally, and this pilot was an innovative project, the first of its kind to bring Recovery Education to a younger audience in Ireland. This paper aims to assist in providing direction for future comparable projects.
Being inclusive boosts impact of diversity practices on employee engagement
Authors: Jerónimo Helena Mateus , Henriques Paulo Lopes , Carvalho Sara Isabel
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This study aims to analyse the relationship between diversity practices and employee engagement in the specific context of a telecommunications company.

Design/methodology/approach

Using simple and multiple linear regressions, the authors test the mediating effect of the perception of inclusion and the moderating role of inclusive leadership, as well as whether this style of leadership promotes the perception of inclusion among employees.

Findings

The results are based on a sample of 238 responses and show that a positive correlation exists between the perception of diversity practices and engagement which is mediated by the perception of inclusion. However, inclusive leadership fails to moderate this relationship, although it does positively influence employees’ perception of inclusion.

Practical implications

The study emphasises: the importance of employees’ perceptions of diversity and inclusion as a strategic priority of their organisations and the importance of its embeddedness in the organisational culture and daily practices and the role of inclusive leaders in shaping employees’ perceptions, as this leadership may have significant implications for their engagement and performance.

Originality/value

This research offers a better understanding of what contributes to an inclusive workplace and the role of inclusive leaders in building up employees’ perception of inclusion that, thus, enhances their engagement.
Doubting the connection: millennials’ perceptions of the link between higher education and workplace readiness
Authors: Omilion-Hodges Leah M. , Shank Scott E. , Johnson Christine M.
Published: December 2021

Purpose

While Millennials are the most educated generation to date, the unique contributions of higher education as a source of vocational anticipatory socialization (VAS) for organizational success remains unknown. Thus, this paper aims to establish a formative understanding from the student perspective of how faculty help ready the youngest of the Millennial generation for industry. This also allows for a comparison to their older counterparts.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected via an online mixed-methods survey with nearly 400 Millennials (n = 353).

Findings

Two prominent themes emerged including the professor as a socialization agent, where Millennials report learning from faculty as they are “managers of the classroom.” Additionally, the data indicate that many Millennials doubt the strength of the connection between higher education and career socialization, though a smaller cohort reported using the university environment, and more specifically, their interactions with faculty to practice and refine future workplace behaviors. In contrast to parents and peers, faculty nearly always ranked as the lowest source of VAS information.

Research limitations/implications

Some Millennials demonstrate a keen awareness of the importance of relational communication, boding especially well for their relationships with future managers and for their leadership skills as they transition into positions of management.

Practical implications

Faculty should consider how to address three concerns: a potential lack of perceived relevance, workplace inferences based on college experiences and leveraging interactions to strengthen student practice of professional communication. Managers would be well served to anticipate how to address newcomers’ expectations that stem from interpreting communicative experiences in the college classroom as analogous to workplace interactions.

Originality/value

The data indicate that traditional ideas about the impact of vocational anticipatory socialization sources and messaging need to be rethought, and instead, it appears some of the most fruitful socialization experiences faculty can provide is in giving students space and opportunity to practice and refine future workplace behaviors.
Soft skills requirements in e-complaint project team to support facilities management at Malaysian polytechnics
Authors: Ismail Zul-Atfi
Published: December 2021

Purpose

In the context of the study, soft skill means identifying efficient and effective approaches for improving operation and maintenance (O&M) processes in facilities management and extending the management of building facilities and infrastructure. Applying the concept of soft skill to the O&M processes of facilities management at polytechnics in Malaysia, the paper aims to identify problems with conventional working practices in this area and to recommend potential solutions.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviews evidence that conventional working methods generate significant problems related to paper-based forms, improper database management and flawed decision-making processes.

Findings

The paper finds that the application of the concept of soft skill reveals the need for more sophisticated management solutions in the O&M processes of facilities management.

Originality/value

The concept of soft skill will guide future improvements and developments in maintenance management systems (MMS) to fulfil requirements in this area.
Price efficiency and safe-haven property of Bitcoin in relation to stocks in the pandemic era
Authors: Diniz-Maganini Natalia , Rasheed Abdul A.
Published: December 2021

Purpose

When investors experience extreme uncertainty, they seek “safe havens” to reduce their risk, to limit their losses and to protect the value of their portfolios. The purpose of this paper is to examine the safe-haven properties of Bitcoin compared to the stock market.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on intraday data, this study compares the price efficiencies of Bitcoin and Morgan Stanley Capital Index (MSCI) using Multifractal Detrended Fluctuation Analysis for the second half of 2020. This study then evaluates Bitcoin’s safe-haven property using Detrended Partial-Cross-Correlation Analysis (DPCCA).

Findings

This study finds that the price efficiency of Bitcoin is lower than that of MSCI. Further, Bitcoin was not a safe haven at any time for the MSCI index. The net cross-correlations between Bitcoin and MSCI are weak and they vary at different time scales.

Research limitations/implications

The behavior of market prices varies over time. Therefore, it is important to replicate this study for other time periods.

Social implications

The paper sheds light on the price behavior of Bitcoin during a period of instability. The results suggest that the construction of portfolios should differ based on the time horizons of the investors.

Originality/value

The authors compare Bitcoin against a global equity index instead of a specific country index or commodity. They also demonstrate the applicability of DPCCA in finance research.
Dramatic response to immunochemotherapy followed by salvage surgery in an elderly lung cancer patient
Authors: Okano Yoshio , Kunishige Michihiro , Kondo Yoshihiro , Kadota Naoki , Morishita Atsushi , Naruse Keishi , Machida Hisanori , Hatakeyama Nobuo , Hino Hiroyuki , Shinohara Tsutomu , Sakiyama Shoji , Takeuchi Eiji
Published: December 2021

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have caused a paradigm shift in the treatment of lung cancer. Here, we encountered a case of inoperable locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the lung that became operable with pembrolizumab‐based immunochemotherapy and achieved a pathological complete response. An 82‐year‐old man suspected of having lung cancer was referred to our hospital. The patient was clinically diagnosed with left upper lobe squamous cell carcinoma cT2aN3M0 c‐stage IIIC. Immunostaining revealed the expression of programmed death‐ligand 1 in 60% of tumor cells. The cancer cells disappeared after two cycles of chemotherapy with carboplatin and nanoparticle albumin‐bound paclitaxel plus pembrolizumab. As the abnormal accumulation of 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) on FDG‐positron emission tomography/computed tomography before chemotherapy almost disappeared after pembrolizumab‐based immunochemotherapy, left upper lobectomy and lymph node dissection were performed. No cancer cells were pathologically detected from the resected tissue. Therefore, ICIs combined with chemotherapy may enable inoperable advanced lung cancer patients to undergo surgery and achieve a complete response.
Abstinence versus moderation recovery pathways following resolution of a substance use problem: Prevalence, predictors, and relationship to psychosocial well‐being in a U.S. national sample
Authors: Eddie David , Bergman Brandon G. , Hoffman Lauren A. , Kelly John F.
Published: December 2021

Background

Many people who report resolving an alcohol or other drug (AOD) problem continue some level of substance use. Little information exists, however, regarding the prevalence of this resolution pathway, or how continued substance use after resolving an AOD problem, relative to abstinence, relates to functioning, quality of life, and happiness (i.e., well‐being). Greater knowledge of the prevalence and correlates of non‐abstinent AOD problem resolution could inform public health messaging and clinical guidelines, while encouraging substance use goals likely to maximize well‐being and reduce risks.

Methods

We analyzed data from a nationally representative sample of individuals who endorsed having resolved an AOD problem (N = 2002). Analyses examined: (1) The prevalence of various substance use statuses coded from lowest to highest risk: (a) continuous abstinence from all AOD since problem resolution; (b) current abstinence from all AOD with some use since problem resolution; (c) current use of a substance reported as a secondary substance; (d) current use of the individual's primary substance only; or, (e) current use of a secondary and primary substance; (2) relationships between substance use status and demographic, clinical, and service use history measures; and (3) the relationship between substance use status and well‐being. Weighted, controlled, regression analyses examined the influence of independent variables on substance use status.

Results

(1) Prevalence: In this sample, 20.3% of patients endorsed continuous abstinence; 33.7% endorsed current abstinence; 21.0% endorsed current use of a secondary substance; 16.2% endorsed current use of a primary substance; and 8.8% endorsed current use of both a secondary and a primary substance. (2) Correlates: Lower‐risk substance use status was associated with the initiation of regular substance use at an older age, more years since problem resolution, and fewer lifetime psychiatric diagnoses. (3) Well‐Being: Controlling for pertinent confounds, lower‐risk substance use status was independently associated with greater self‐esteem, happiness, quality of life and functioning, and recovery capital, as well as less psychological distress.

Conclusions

About half of Americans who self‐identify as having resolved an AOD problem continue to use AOD in some form. It appears that, although for many abstinence is not necessary to overcome an AOD problem, it is likely to lead to better functioning and greater well‐being. Further, people appear to gravitate toward abstinence/lower risk substance use with greater time since problem resolution.
Marŋgithirri guŋga’yunarawu ga guŋga’yunyarawu marŋgithinyarawu Learning to connect and connecting to learn: Preparing the rural and remote allied health workforce through a co‐created student‐implemented service in East Arnhem, Australia
Authors: Bird Katrina , Stothers Kylie , Armstrong Emily , Marika Eunice Djerrkŋu , Yunupingu Murphy Dhayirra , Brown Louise , Witt Susan , Campbell Narelle , Barker Ruth
Published: December 2021

Objectives

To explore the process of learning for allied health students providing a student‐implemented service for older Yolŋu in remote East Arnhem, Northern Territory, Australia.

Design

An exploratory qualitative study following an 8‐week student‐implemented service.

Setting

Nhulunbuy and Yirrkala and surrounding remote Aboriginal communities of the East Arnhem Region of the Northern Territory.

Participants

Data were collected from: 4 students who implemented the service; 4 professional supervisors, 3 placement coordinators, a Yolŋu cultural consultant and a care manager from a local community organisation, all of whom supported implementation of the service; and 7 older Yolŋu and their families who were recipients of the service.

Interventions

A student‐implemented service for older Yolŋu delivered by allied health students from James Cook University. Clinical, cultural and pastoral supervision and support was provided by Flinders University, James Cook University, Indigenous Allied Health Australia and 2 Yolŋu cultural consultants and 2 local community organisations.

Main outcome measures

Semi‐structured interviews with those who implemented, supported and received the service. Data were analysed thematically using an inductive approach.

Results

‘Learning to connect and connecting to learn’ described how allied health students were learning to provide a service for older Yolŋu. Four interrelated processes connected their learning: ‘preparing and supporting’, ‘bonding and responding’, ‘growing and enriching’ and ‘working and weaving’.

Conclusion

The co‐created student‐implemented service provided a unique learning opportunity for allied health students on how to provide a culturally safe service in a remote Aboriginal community in northern Australia.
Muscle function following testosterone replacement in men on opioid therapy for chronic non‐cancer pain: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kolind Mikkel Iwanoff , Christensen Louise Lehmann , Caserotti Paolo , Andersen Marianne Skovsager , Glintborg Dorte
Published: December 2021

Background

Chronic pain and opioid treatment are associated with increased risk of male hypogonadism and subsequently decreased muscle function. A diagnosis of hypogonadism is based on the presence of low total testosterone and associated symptoms. The effect of testosterone replacement therapy on muscle function in men with chronic pain and low total testosterone remains to be investigated.

Objectives

To investigate the effects of testosterone replacement therapy on muscle function and gait performance in men treated with opioids for chronic non‐cancer pain.

Materials and methods

A double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study. Forty‐one men (>18 years) with opioid‐treated chronic pain and serum total testosterone < 12 nmol/L were randomized to 24 weeks testosterone replacement therapy (testosterone undecanoate injection three times/6 months, n  = 20) or placebo injections (n  = 21). Muscle function was measured as leg press maximal voluntary contraction, leg extension power using the Nottingham power rig and handgrip strength using a handheld dynameter. Gait performance was measured at usual and maximal gait speed on a 10‐m track. Body composition (lean body mass and fat mass) was determined by dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry. Mann‐Whitney tests were performed on ∆‐values (24‐0 weeks) between testosterone replacement therapy and placebo.

Results

At baseline, median (interquartile range) age was 55 ± 13 years and BMI was 30.7 ± 5.2 kg/m2. ∆‐muscle function and ∆‐gait performance were similar between testosterone replacement therapy and placebo. Median ∆‐leg press maximal voluntary contraction was 174.2 ± 406.7 Newton, following testosterone replacement therapy, and 7.6 ± 419.1 Newton, after placebo, p = 0.091. ∆‐lean body mass was significantly higher following testosterone replacement therapy compared to placebo, 3.6 ± 2.7 versus 0.1 ± 3.5 kg, respectively (p < 0.001).

Discussion

Testosterone replacement therapy, compared to placebo, did not improve muscle function or gait performance despite increased lean body mass. Changes in body composition did not infer any changes in muscle function.

Conclusion

24 weeks testosterone replacement therapy in opioid‐treated men with pain‐related male hypogonadism did not improve muscle function.
Finnish children who experienced narcolepsy after receiving the Pandemrix vaccine during the 2009–2010 H1N1 pandemic demonstrated high level of psychosocial problems
Authors: Hovi Marita , Heiskala Hannu , Aronen Eeva T. , Saarenpää‐Heikkilä Outi , Olsen Päivi , Nokelainen Pekka , Kirjavainen Turkka
Published: December 2021

Aim

We assessed psychosocial burdens in children who developed narcolepsy after receiving the Pandemrix H1N1 vaccine during the 2009–2010 pandemic. Parental quality of life was also assessed.

Methods

This multicentre study covered four of the five Finnish University Hospital Districts, which dealt with about 90% of the paediatric narcolepsy cases after the Pandemrix vaccination. The medical records of children diagnosed from 2010 to 2014 were reviewed. The questionnaires included the Youth Self‐Report (YSR), Children's Depression Inventory (CDI), the Child Behaviour Checklist (CBCL) and questions on parental resources, stress and quality of life.

Results

We obtained the medical records of 94 children who were aged 5–17 years at the time of their narcolepsy diagnosis and questionnaire data for 73 of those children. Most children had strong narcolepsy symptoms, and 25% had CDI scores that suggested depression. In addition, 41% had total CBCL problem scores above the clinically significant limit and 48% were anxious, withdrawn and had somatic complaints. Sleep latency was weakly associated with the CBCL total problem score. Half of the children needed psychiatric interventions and parental stress was common.

Conclusion

Depression and behavioural problems were common in children with narcolepsy after the Pandemrix vaccination and their parents frequently reported feeling stressed.