bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Marine energy transition with LNG and electric batteries: a technological adoption analysis of Norwegian ferries
Authors: Laribi Sofiane , Guy Emmanuel
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The article investigates factors associated with the relative success in adopting two specific alternative marine energies (liquefied natural gas [LNG] and electric batteries) in the Norwegian ferry market. This specific market segment is an interesting case study as its national-flagged fleet boasting the largest number of ships using alternative marine energies in comparison with the other countries of the region and the world.

Design/methodology/approach

A database tracking the yearly deployment of ships using a different combination of LNG and electric batteries was built from shipping lines’ online information and grey literature. The technological adoption approach was used to categorize different groups of users at each step of the adoption process and identify which factors separate the early adopters from the other groups of end-users. The compiled data allow tracing the changing distribution of Norwegian ferry operators along the conceptualized technology adoption curve.

Findings

Results indicated that the Norwegian ferry market matches required conditions to pass the “chasm” of uncertainties associated with transitioning to new technology. Some disparities between the adoption of LNG and the electric batteries in the Norwegian ferry markets are observed.

Originality/value

To the authors’ knowledge, no study has explored the adoption of new energies in the maritime industry based on the technology adoption process through a similar perspective. The analysis is helpful to shed light on the barriers associated with a high level of uncertainties when it comes to adopting new marine energies.
Socio-economic development through self-help groups in rural India – a qualitative study
Authors: Kandpal Vinay
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Through a thematic analysis, this research study aims to examine the role of microfinance institutions (MFIs) and self-help groups (SHGs) in empowering rural women and their contribution to financial inclusion in India. Sustainable development can be achieved when resources are equally available and accessible for all, irrespective of gender differences.

Design/methodology/approach

For qualitative research, the response was collected through focused group discussion and gathered responses from members working in SHGs in Uttarakhand in India. Thematic analysis was done to analyse the data till the saturation level was reached.

Findings

Despite several socio-economic developments worldwide, women still fall among some of the most vulnerable communities, unable to access resources at par with men. Thus, women’s empowerment emerges as a theme central to sustainable development. MFIs are looking to empower women by increasing their savings habits. There are consistent efforts on the part of the government to formalize the system of SHGs and give them additional financial support by creating a proper link between the banking system and SHGs. We also need technology and innovation for creating financial literacy among women. Women’s empowerment cannot be achieved unless they are involved in financial inclusion by creating awareness.

Originality/value

The research focuses on people’s socio-economic development, especially women living in hilly and rural areas within the specific context of Uttarakhand in India. This research will provide an opportunity for strategic approaches and reveal the areas where government needs to focus for sustainable development.
PhD graduates in non-academic roles: harnessing communication knowledge to meet organizational goals
Authors: McAlpine Lynn , Inouye Kelsey
Published: March 2022

Purpose

PhD graduates are increasingly taking non-academic roles outside and inside universities. While effective communication is a frequently mentioned concern among employers, little is known about what actual communication PhD graduates do as part of their work. The purpose of this study is to examine the nature of work-related communication activities by PhDs in non-academic sectors.

Design/methodology/approach

The conceptual framework presented in this paper focused on the intersection between individual day-to-day experience and work structures through the analytic lens of genre knowledge. Using a narrative approach, attending to both individual experience and cross-case patterns, the authors conducted semi-structured interviews with 11 PhD holders in non-academic careers. Interviews and related documents were analyzed inductively for emerging themes and deductively for cross-case patterns.

Findings

In pursuing organizational goals, PhD graduates undertook diverse writing and other communication work and developed a rich tapestry of genre knowledge. This knowledge enabled them to negotiate different encounters with specific genres, undertake new genres and mediate among different genres.

Originality/value

This study highlighted the value of framing future research around a) the intersection between individual communication experience and organizational factors; and b) the analytic lens of genre knowledge to understand how organizational roles and goals lead to diverse communication practices. As for practical implications, the organizationally bounded roles and goals influencing participants’ communication practices also hold true for those doing PhDs where success requires mastering a limited academic set of genres. While the authors cannot prepare PhD graduates for all the genres they may need, the authors could explicitly teach how genres work in the PhD context.
Cross-cultural electronic word-of-mouth: a systematic literature review
Authors: Kusawat Poompak , Teerakapibal Surat
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Global adoption of the internet and mobile usage results in a huge variation in the cultural backgrounds of consumers who generate and consume electronic word-of-mouth (eWOM). Unsurprisingly, a research trend on cross-cultural eWOM has emerged. However, there has not been an attempt to synthesize this research topic. This paper aims to bridge this gap.

Methodology

This research paper conducts a systematic literature review of the current research findings on cross-cultural eWOM. Journal articles published from 2006 to 2021 are included. This study then presents the key issues in the extant literature and suggests potential future research.

Findings

The findings show that there has been an upward trend in the number of publications on cross-cultural eWOM since the early 2010s, with a relatively steeper increase toward 2020. The findings also synthesize cross-cultural eWOM research into four elements and suggest potential future research avenues.

Value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, there is currently no exhaustive/integrated review of cross-cultural eWOM research. This research fills the need to summarize the current state of cross-cultural eWOM literature and identifies research questions to be addressed in the future.
Organisational learning in complex epistemic environments: reflections from studies of professional work in Norway
Authors: Nerland Monika
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The aim of this invited paper is to explore how more complex epistemic environments generate opportunities and challenges for organizational learning in professional realms. Based on these explorations, a second aim is to discuss whether there are specific conditions in Nordic working life that facilitates or restricts such learning opportunities.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper discusses conditions for organizational learning in terms of changing knowledge practices and relations. Examples from studies of knowledge work in the Norwegian education and health sectors are provided to illustrate how professionals become involved in epistemic practices as part of their work and how these practices are changing in relation to evolving knowledge cultures.

Findings

The paper conceptualises and discusses how knowledge practices are changing in relation to specific and increasingly complex epistemic environments. It is argued that features such as low power distance, high levels of higher education participation, well-developed digital infrastructures and a general trust in professionals are conducive to learning. At the same time, taking advantage of learning opportunities are increasingly depending on individuals’ agency and capacities to cope with new demands.

Originality/value

To better account for the complexity of epistemic environments, organisational learning can be seen as a matter of connecting epistemic practices in the local work organisation to wider knowledge circuits.
Prioritization of critical success factors for sustainable Lean Six Sigma implementation in Indian healthcare organizations using best-worst-method
Authors: Swarnakar Vikas , Bagherian Anthony , Singh A.R.
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Recent years have seen an increased demand for healthcare services, presenting a need to improve service quality through the deployment of sustainable Lean Six Sigma (LSS). This study aims to identify critical success factors (CSFs) of sustainable LSS and prioritize them based on their intensity of importance for the effective implementation of sustainable LSS in the healthcare environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study identified 33 leading CSFs through a comprehensive literature review and expert experience and classified them into six major categories based on organizational functions. The primacy of these CSFs is established using the best-worst-method (BWM) approach. The significant advantage of this approach is that the decision-maker identifies both the best and worst criteria among alternatives prior to pairwise comparisons, leading to fewer pairwise comparisons and saving time, energy and resources. It also provides more reliable and consistent rankings.

Findings

The findings of the present study highlight the economic and managerial (E&M) CSFs as the most significant CSFs among the major category criteria of sustainable LSS-CSFs, followed by organizational (O), knowledge and learning (K&L), technological (T), social and environmental (S&E), and external factors (EF). Similarly, management involvement and leadership to implement sustainable LSS (E&M1), structured LSS deployment training and education (K&L2), and availability of required resources and their efficient utilization (O2) are ranked as the topmost CSFs among sub-category criteria of sustainable LSS-CSFs.

Practical implications

The prioritization of sustainable LSS-CSFs determined in this study can provide healthcare managers, researchers and decision-makers with a better understanding of the influence on effective deployment of sustainable LSS, resulting in improved service quality in hospitals.

Originality/value

This paper is an original contribution to the analysis of CSFs in an Indian healthcare institute, utilizing the BMW method for ranking the sustainable LSS-CSFs. The advantage of utilizing and distinguishing the performance of this approach compared to other MCDA approaches in terms of (1) least pairwise comparison and violation, (2) consistency (3) slightest deviation and (4) conformity.
Tree species mixing can amplify microclimate offsets in young forest plantations
Authors: Zhang Shengmin , Landuyt Dries , Verheyen Kris , De Frenne Pieter
Published: March 2022

Macroclimate warming is affecting ecosystems world‐wide. Tree canopies, however, can significantly buffer temperature fluctuations, giving rise to lower maximum temperatures, higher minimum temperatures and enhanced water availability at the forest floor. Forests, therefore, can act as refugia for heat‐sensitive species with important implications for climate‐change responses in the understorey of forests. These forest microclimate offsets have been well‐studied, but far less is known about how microclimate offsets are modulated by tree species mixing.

We installed temperature and air humidity loggers in a multisite tree diversity experiment to quantify the role of tree species richness and composition on below‐canopy offsets and investigate mechanisms underlying these effects.

Microclimate offsets highly depended on tree species identity and mixing. Not only monocultures of larch Larix × eurolepis and Douglas fir Pseudotsuga menziesii had a high performance for thermal buffering, but also mixtures with species such as birch Betula pendula and pine Pinus sylvestris. Indirect effects brought about by tree species mixing were found to amplify microclimate offsets, mostly via increased canopy cover.

Synthesis and applications. Our findings show that microclimate offsetting highly depends on tree species identity and diversity, and that buffered forest microclimates can be achieved rapidly in young plantations, depending on the species being planted. Based on our findings, we recommend planting mixtures instead of monocultures. Not only because species mixing was found to amplify microclimate offsets in some of the investigated stands, but also because tree species mixing is likely to increase the resilience of forests to climate change. Hence, we expect that also on the long‐term species mixing might be beneficial for microclimate buffering. Forest managers and policy makers can use our finding to optimise the design of tree plantations to minimise climate‐change impacts on below‐canopy biodiversity and functioning.
Sperm mitochondrial DNA copy number in relation to semen quality: A cross‐sectional study of 1164 potential sperm donors
Authors: Sun Bin , Hou Jian , Ye Yi‐Xiang , Chen Heng‐Gui , Duan Peng , Chen Ying‐Jun , Xiong Cheng‐Liang , Wang Yi‐Xin , Pan An
Published: March 2022

Objective

To investigate the association between mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNAcn) and semen quality.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Hubei Province Human Sperm Bank of China (from April 2017 to July 2018).

Population

A total of 1164 healthy male sperm donors with 5739 specimens.

Main outcome measures

Real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) was used to measure sperm mtDNAcn. We also determined semen volume, concentration and motility parameters (progressive motility, nonprogressive motility and immotility).

Methods

Mixed‐effect models and general linear models were uses.

Results

After adjusting for relevant confounding factors, mixed‐effect models revealed diminished sperm motility (progressive and total), concentration, and total count across the quartiles of mtDNAcn (all P < 0.05). Compared with men in the lowest quartile, men in the highest quartile of mtDNAcn had lower progressive sperm motility, total motility, concentration and total count of −8.9% (95% CI −12.7% to −5.0%), −8.0% (95% CI −11.6% to −4.4%), −42.8% (95% CI −47.7% to −37.4%), and − 44.3% (95% CI −50.1% to −37.7%), respectively. These inverse dose–response relationships were further confirmed in the cubic spline models, where mtDNAcn was modelled as a continuous variable.

Conclusions

We found that mtDNAcn was inversely associated with semen quality in a dose‐dependent manner. Our results provide novel clues that sperm mtDNAcn may serve as a useful predictor of human semen characteristics.

Tweetable abstract

Sperm mitochondrial DNA copy number was markedly associated with diminished sperm motility (progressive and total), concentration and total count.
Perspectives of certified nursing assistants and administrators on staffing the nursing home frontline during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Franzosa Emily , Mak Wingyun , R. Burack Orah , Hokenstad Alene , Wiggins Faith , Boockvar Kenneth S. , Reinhardt Joann P.
Published: March 2022

Objective

To identify best practices to support and grow the frontline nursing home workforce based on the lived experience of certified nursing assistants (CNAs) and administrators during COVID‐19.

Study setting

Primary data collection with CNAs and administrators in six New York metro area nursing homes during fall 2020.

Study design

Semi‐structured interviews and focus groups exploring staffing challenges during COVID‐19, strategies used to address them, and recommendations moving forward.

Data collection

We conducted interviews with 6 administrators and held 10 focus groups with day and evening shift CNAs (n = 56) at 6 nursing homes. Data were recorded and transcribed verbatim and analyzed through directed content analysis using a combined inductive and deductive approach to compare perceptions across sites and roles.

Principal findings

CNAs and administrators identified chronic staffing shortages that affected resident care and staff burnout as a primary concern moving forward. CNAs who felt most supported and confident in their continued ability to manage their work and the pandemic described leadership efforts to support workers' emotional health and work–life balance, teamwork across staff and management, and accessible and responsive leadership. However, not all CNAs felt these strategies were in place.

Conclusions

Based on priorities identified by CNAs and administrators, we recommend several organizational/industry and policy‐level practices to support retention for this workforce. Practices to stabilize the workforce should include 1) teamwork and person‐centered operational practices including transparent communication; 2) increasing permanent staff to avoid shortages; and 3) evaluating and building on successful COVID‐related innovations (self‐managed teams and flexible benefits). Policy and regulatory changes to promote these efforts are necessary to developing industry‐wide structural practices that target CNA recruitment and retention.
Sociodemographic features and outcomes of peritonitis episodes in children on peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Pınarbaşı Ayşe Seda , Akbalık Kara Mehtap
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is one of the most preferred kidney replacement therapies in children. However, it has an important complication such as peritonitis. This study was planned to investigate the causes and frequency of peritonitis in children with PD.

Methods

The demographic features, peritonitis episodes, and microbiological characteristics of PD patients followed up for 5 years.

Results

Overall, 50 pediatric PD patients who met the study criteria in a 5‐year period were included in the study. Consanguineous marriage was 64% and 44% of the mothers was illiterate. A total of 19 patients had no peritonitis episode, and a total of 54 peritonitis episode were experienced. The overall peritonitis rate was one episode per 24.4 patient‐months. Culture negativity rate was 44%.

Conclusion

Even though factors such as the education level of the parents, the number of people or rooms in the house, dialysis modality were thought to influence peritonitis episodes, they could not be shown statistically.
Neotropical mustelids: fecal metabolome diversity and its potential for taxonomic discrimination
Authors: ALMEIDA Lana Resende de , ALVES Marina Amaral , MASTELLA Ana Maria Obino , GARRETT Rafael , PEREIRA Maria João Ramos
Published: March 2022

Chemical profiles of non‐invasive biological material, such as feces, have great potential to study elusive animals or those with low population densities. Here, we use a metabolomic approach to evaluate Neotropical mustelids as a biological model to describe the diversity of the metabolites present in fecal samples, as well as to evaluate the potential of chemical profiles for taxonomic discrimination. We collected fecal samples from captive individuals of 5 species of mustelids occurring in Brazil and analyzed them by liquid chromatography coupled to high‐resolution mass spectrometry. Over 200 compounds have been annotated; “bile acids, alcohols and derivatives” was the most expressive class in the metabolome of all the species. We successfully discriminated 3 taxonomic groups: 1—tayra (Eira barbara); 2—otters (Lontra longicaudis and Pteronura brasiliensis; 1); and 3—grisons (Galictis vittata and Galictis cuja). Several compounds seemed to be associated with food intake and the digestive process, while others were found for the first time in Neotropical mustelids. We concluded that mustelids show high metabolome diversity and that species‐specific identification through metabolomic profiles is possible, thus contributing to the development and implementation of additional non‐invasive approaches in the study of mustelids.
Inhibition of α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase by Morus australis fruit extract and its components iminosugar, anthocyanin, and glucose
Authors: Qiao Ying , Ikeda Yuki , Ito Masaaki , Kimura Toshiyuki , Ikeuchi Takeaki , Takita Teisuke , Yasukawa Kiyoshi
Published: March 2022

The inhibition of α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase are important for the maintenance of blood glucose level. Mammalian α‐glucosidase includes maltase–glucoamylase and sucrase–isomaltase complexes. In this study, we examined the inhibitory effects of Morus australis fruit extract and its components, that is, three iminosugars (1‐deoxynojirimycin [1‐DNJ], fagomine, and 2‐O‐α‐D‐galactopyranosyl deoxynojirimycin), two anthocyanins (cyanidin‐3‐glucoside and cyanidin‐3‐rutinoside), and glucose, against α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase. We also quantified the concentration of each component in M. australis fruit extract. The IC50 values of the fruit extracts of four M. australis subspecies were >10 mg/ml for α‐amylase, 1.1–1.7 mg/ml for maltase, 6.9–8.6 mg/ml for glucoamylase, 0.13–1.0 mg/ml for sucrase, and 0.46–1.4 mg/ml for isomaltase. When the IC50 value of each component and the concentration of each component in the fruit extract were taken into consideration, our results indicated that glucose are involved in the inhibition of α‐amylase, and 1‐DNJ and glucose are involved in the inhibition of α‐glucosidase. This is in contrast to that in M. australis leaf, neither anthocyanin nor glucose are contained, and 1‐DNJ is a main inhibitor.

Practical Application

It is widely accepted that inhibition of α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase is one of the strategies to treat type‐2 diabetes. Today, acarbose, miglitol, and voglibose are clinically used for this purpose. Our results that 1‐DNJ and anthocyanin are present in Morus australis fruit and are involved in the inhibition of α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase suggest that M. australis fruit is a healthy sweetener.
Instability in Afghanistan and Non‐traditional Security Threats: A Public Good Problem?
Authors: Verma Raj
Published: March 2022

Many analysts and policy makers agree that the withdrawal of the US and North Atlantic Treaty Organization forces and formation of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan will exacerbate the political, social, ethnic and religious fault lines in Afghanistan and may lead to civil war and chaos in Afghanistan reminiscent of the 1990s. This will also exacerbate non‐traditional security threats such as Islamic fundamentalist and transnational terrorism, drugs/narcotics trade and human migration/refugee crisis in the neighbouring countries and beyond. This article argues that tackling the non‐traditional security threats facing the region and beyond is a public good. It analyses the tackling of non‐traditional security threats – terrorism, narcotics trade and human migration/refugee inflow – through the prism of collective action problem that is joint production of a good or joint action to tackle the problem. It illustrates that difference in threat perception, clash/conflict of interests and geopolitical rivalries will hinder cooperation and intelligence sharing, and lead to uncoordinated action and free riding. It will also create problems of leadership and affect the choice and efficacy of the organisation/institution to tackle the threats. The article highlights that in the absence of collective action, it will be extremely difficult to overcome the non‐traditional security threats emanating from Afghanistan.
The Taliban’s Takeover of Afghanistan and Pakistan’s Non‐traditional Security Challenges
Authors: Shahab Ahmed Zahid
Published: March 2022

The Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan has brought both opportunities and challenges for Pakistan. As Islamabad is relieved by India's exit from Afghanistan, it continues to worry more about the spill‐over of the situation in Afghanistan into Pakistan. Among key non‐traditional security challenges are extremism, terrorism, refugees and drug trafficking and Islamabad continues to express serious concerns on how the new development in Afghanistan can pose a serious threat to Pakistan's peace and security. With a friendly regime in Kabul, however, Pakistan has an opportunity to handle these challenges through a mix of bilateral and multilateral options. By examining historical and contemporary dynamics, this article assesses the seriousness of non‐traditional security threats vis‐à‐vis Afghanistan for Pakistan. Islamabad's immediate non‐traditional security concerns focus on how the new developments in Afghanistan will possibly influence religious extremism and terrorism at home. Finally, the article outlines policy recommendations for Pakistan's engagement in the Taliban‐led Afghanistan.
Non‐traditional Security Threats to India from Afghanistan?
Authors: Joshi Manoj
Published: March 2022

The US withdrawal from Afghanistan is being seen as much of a setback for the US, as for India. New Delhi's perspectives are shaped by its concerns over security and, overwhelmingly, the role of Pakistan in the region. Afghanistan has, in the past, provided camps for training Pakistani and Kashmiri militants. But India has, in the meantime strengthened its border defences significantly and will be able to easily handle the challenge. As for narcotics, it operates on a plane of its own and is not related to the ebb and flow of terrorism and militancy in Indian Administered Kashmir (IAK). Pakistan is certainly flying high in the Af–Pak region with a government of its choice in place in Kabul. But it has its own constraints, not in the least its economic situation. An India–Pakistan reconciliation would go a long way in further reducing the non‐traditional security threats/challenges and enhancing stability in Afghanistan.
China’s Alternative Prudent Approach in Afghanistan
Authors: Niu Haibin , Huang Yuehan
Published: March 2022

After the catastrophic 9/11 terrorist attacks, the United States (US) launched a war in Afghanistan to combat terrorism as a major non‐traditional security threat. Twenty years later, Afghanistan is still struggling for solidarity, stability, and development, and remains a hotbed for transnational terrorism. Although observers view China as a key player in Afghanistan, which will fill the strategic vacuum left by the US withdrawal, a successful Chinese approach in Afghanistan depends on many factors including the US competition strategy vis‐à‐vis China, the Taliban's rule, neighbouring countries’ interests and choices with respect to Afghanistan, and other factors. Therefore, China may devise a realistic, pragmatic, constructive, and cooperative approach to address the non‐traditional security challenges in Afghanistan. Taking due cognisance of the bitter stories of the Soviet Union in Afghanistan, China maintained a low‐key stance in Afghanistan after the Soviets withdrew from the country. After 1991, to address the security concerns in Xinjiang, China supported the building of a stable, peaceful, and prosperous Afghanistan and seeks to avoid any military presence in the country. China will largely maintain this prudent approach in Afghanistan after US withdrawal from the country.
Russia, Central Asia and Non‐traditional Security Threats from Afghanistan following the US Withdrawal
Authors: Stepanova Ekaterina
Published: March 2022

In the early 21st century, non‐traditional security threats such as terrorism and narcotics trafficking drove the revival of post‐Soviet Russia's interest in and concern about the Afghan problem. This article outlines main security threats for Russia and Central Asia in Afghanistan during two decades of the United States (US) presence, identifies new risks, aggravating circumstances, and threat reduction factors following the US forces’ final departure and Taliban's comeback to power since 2021, and explores ways to counter main Afghanistan‐related security risks. For Russia and broader Eurasia, actual and potential non‐traditional security threats emanating from Afghanistan are likely to persist under the Taliban's second rule. However, none of them are unmanageable. While inside Afghanistan, much depends on the new Taliban authorities’ performance, it is up to the Central Asian states themselves and to Russia as their Eurasian security ally to hedge against potential scenarios. If the security pillar of Russia's response is confined to Central Asia and Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), the political‐diplomatic one extends to broader region and beyond. Overall, Russia has learnt its own historical lessons on Afghanistan: Moscow now prioritizes collective action in cooperation with regional powers, under multilateral frameworks extending beyond the region, and at the United Nations (UN).
Reduced structural connectivity of the amygdala is associated with childhood trauma in adult patients with alcohol use disorder
Authors: Soravia Leila M. , Denier Niklaus , Moggi Franz , Grieder Matthias , Federspiel Andrea , Tschuemperlin Raphaela M. , Batschelet Hallie M. , Vollstädt‐Klein Sabine , Wiest Roland , Stein Maria , Bracht Tobias
Published: March 2022

Childhood trauma (CT) is frequent in patients with alcohol use disorder (AUD) and may impact on adult drinking behaviour and treatment outcome. This study aimed to investigate the structural correlates of CT in AUD, focusing on the amygdala, which plays a crucial role in the neurobiology of trauma. We hypothesized reduced amygdala volume and reduced structural connectivity as quantified by fractional anisotropy (FA) and by number of streamlines in those AUD patients with a history of moderate to severe CT (AUD‐CT). T1‐weighted MP2RAGE and diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) 3‐Tesla MRI‐scans were acquired in 41 recently abstinent patients with AUD. We compared bilateral amygdala volume and structural connectivity (FA and number of streamlines) of pathways emanating from the amygdala between AUD‐CT (n = 20) and AUD without CT (AUD‐NT, n = 21) using a mixed model multivariate analysis of variance (MANCOVA) controlling for age and gender. AUD‐CT displayed reduced FA and reduced number of streamlines of amygdalar tracts. There were no differences regarding amygdala volume. The severity of physical abuse, a subscale of the childhood trauma questionnaire, was negatively correlated with FA and with number of streamlines. AUD‐CT and AUD‐NT differ regarding structural connectivity of pathways projecting to and from the amygdala, but not regarding amygdala volume. Those alterations of structural connectivity in AUD‐CT may represent a distinguishable neurobiological subtype of AUD, which might be associated with the complex clinical picture and poorer outcome that patients with CT and AUD often present.
Observations of oviposition behaviour in the long‐tailed waspMegalyra fasciipennisWestwood, 1832 (Hymenoptera: Megalyridae)
Authors: Mesaglio Thomas , Shaw Scott R.
Published: March 2022

Megalyridae is a small family of mostly Southern Hemisphere parasitoid wasps, with the females of some species having ovipositors up to eight times their body length. The largest genus,Megalyra, is represented by 22 Australian species. Despite the conspicuous morphology of females, the biology of this family is relatively poorly known, with few published field observations. We opportunistically observed a femaleMegalyra fasciipennisWestwood, 1832, in urban bushland in south‐western Sydney, New South Wales, and extensively describe our observations of oviposition behaviour. Although our observations are largely consistent with historical accounts of oviposition in this species, we also describe previously unreported behaviours such as abdominal rotation. We speculate thatM. fasciipennisemploys both chemoreception and passive vibration detection to find hosts inside wood and note the importance of urban habitat and standing dead trees for preserving biodiversity.
Geographic variation in referral practices for patients with suspected head and neck cancer: A survey of general practitioners using a clinical vignette
Authors: Venchiarutti Rebecca L. , Tracy Marguerite , Clark Jonathan R. , Palme Carsten E. , Young Jane M.
Published: March 2022

Introduction

General practitioners (GPs) play a crucial role in cancer care and GPs are often the first doctor that patients with symptoms suggestive of cancer will encounter. Head and neck cancer (HNC) is a relatively uncommon presentation in primary care, and evidence suggests that times to diagnosis and treatment of HNC vary based on geographical location of patients. This may be due to barriers to referral faced by regional or rural GPs as compared to those in metropolitan cities in Australia.

Objective

To investigate the effect of geographical location of GPs on management of patients with symptoms suggestive of HNC.

Design

This was a descriptive, analytical, cross‐sectional survey. Surveys were sent to GPs at practices in two primary health care networks in New South Wales, Australia (Mid North Coast Primary Healthcare Network and the Central and Eastern Sydney Primary Healthcare Network) between February and May 2020. Main outcome measures were perceived time from referral to specialist appointment, factors affecting timeliness of patient help‐seeking, and awareness and use of clinical guidelines.

Findings

A total of 1803 GPs were sampled, of which 196 responded (45 regional GPs and 151 metropolitan GPs). Less than half (48%) of regional GPs reported patients could expect to be seen by a specialist within 2 weeks of referral, compared to 70% of metropolitan GPs (p = 0.001). Most metropolitan GPs stated they would refer a patient with suspected HNC to a surgeon subspecialising in HNC. Regional GPs were split between ear, nose, and throat (ENT) and general surgeons. Availability of services was the most common factor influencing referral practices for regional GPs, whereas for metropolitan GPs, this was the patient's symptoms. Awareness of government resources for cancer referrals was generally low.

Discussion

Regional GPs report patients with HNC are less likely to be seen by a specialist within optimal time frames compared to metropolitan GPs. Respondents reported different barriers to early referral of patients with suspected HNC, with regional GPs more often citing system‐level factors while metropolitan GPs more often cited patient‐level factors.

Conclusion

Evaluating service provision and uptake with respect to community need, and addressing of barriers to implementation, may minimise unwarranted clinical variation.
The Return to Face‐to‐Face Classes as Culture Shock: A Letter to Students Returning to Campus
Authors: Stocker Karen
Published: March 2022

Unable to travel during the COVID‐19 pandemic, I returned to past fieldnotes to stay ethnographically connected. There I found insights into culture shock that gave shape to varied feelings about returning to the classroom after more than a year of remote learning. These insights turned into a letter to returning students about culture shock and how to manage it. The advice offered stems from repeated experiences of returning home after prolonged fieldwork and managing the array of emotions that entails.
Outpatient transperineal prostate biopsy under local anaesthesia is safe, well tolerated and feasible
Authors: Hong Anne , Hemmingway Sarah , Wetherell David , Dias Brendan , Zargar Homayoun
Published: March 2022

Background

Transperineal biopsy (TPB) of the prostate has been increasingly utilized as it has reduced infection risks. Traditionally however, it is performed under general anaesthesia, thus it carries a differing set of risks. Recently, new studies have performed TPB under local anaesthesia with success. In the present study, we explored our experience of performing TPB under local anaesthesia in an Australian cohort.

Methods

In this prospective study based at a metropolitan outpatient clinic, patients were provided with TPB under local anaesthesia. We assessed prostate cancer detection rates, complication rates and patient tolerability. Pain tolerability was assess using patient reported pain score on the visual analogue scale. Follow up data was collected at days 7 and 30 post‐biopsy via telephone interview.

Results

A total of 48 patients were enrolled in this study between June 2020 and March 2021. Median age was 65.5 years and median PSA was 6.95 ng/mL. Clinically significant prostate cancer was detected in 58% of patients. During the procedure, pain scores were rated the highest during infiltration of local anaesthetic agent with a median score of 5. By the conclusion of the procedure, median pain score was 1. Vast majority of patients (85.4%) would opt for a repeat TPB under local anaesthesia should the need for prostate biopsy arise again. Two of our patients experienced infectious complications, and one experienced urinary retention.

Conclusion

Our data is in line with currently available data and confirms that TPB under local anaesthesia can be achieved in a safe and tolerable manner.
Defining normal pouch function in patients with ileal pouch‐anal anastomosis: a pilot study
Authors: Quinn Kevin P. , Busciglio Irene A. , Burton Duane D. , Inoue Akitoshi , Lee Yong S. , Heiken Jay P. , Sheedy Shannon P. , Fletcher Joel G. , Raffals Laura E.
Published: March 2022

Background

Most patients experience good functional outcomes following ileal pouch‐anal anastomosis (IPAA) for ulcerative colitis.

Aim

We aimed to determine if asymptomatic patients with an IPAA had findings consistent with normal defecation on standard objective anorectal tests.

Methods

Patients 18–65 years old with IPAA and self‐reported healthy pouch function were recruited. Patients with chronic pouchitis, Crohn’s disease, anastomotic stricture, or indication for IPAA other than ulcerative or indeterminate colitis were excluded. Patients underwent an interview with an abbreviated Rome Questionnaire followed by high‐resolution ano‐pouch manometry, balloon expulsion test, pouch barostat, and magnetic resonance (MR) defecography.

Results

Twenty patients completed all testing. Six patients were excluded from the final analysis due to symptoms suggestive of pouch evacuation disorder on the abbreviated Rome Questionnaire (n = 2), structural abnormality on MR imaging (n = 3), or both (n = 1). Of the remaining 14 patients, mean anal resting pressure during high‐resolution manometry was 72 ± 16 mmHg, mean anal squeeze pressure was 247 ± 69 mmHg, and mean pouch‐anal gradient during the simulated evacuation was −27 ± 37 mmHg. The meantime to balloon expulsion was 54 seconds. During dynamic MR defecography, the mean descent of ano‐pouch junction was 2.6 cm, and mean pouch evacuation was 44.5% and 74.2% pre‐ and posttoilet phase, respectively.

Conclusions

A substantial proportion of patients with IPAA and self‐reported healthy pouch function have anatomic and/or functional abnormalities of the pouch. In asymptomatic IPAA patients with an anatomically normal pouch, we have proposed normal parameters for high‐resolution ano‐pouch manometry, time to balloon expulsion, pouch barostat, and MR defecography.
Lower effectiveness of intravenous steroid treatment for moderate‐to‐severe ulcerative colitis in hospitalised patients with older onset: a multicentre cohort study
Authors: Okabayashi Shinji , Yamazaki Hajime , Tominaga Keiichi , Miura Miki , Sagami Shintaro , Matsuoka Katsuyoshi , Yamaguchi Yoshiharu , Noake Toshihiro , Ozeki Keiji , Miyazaki Ryosuke , Kamano Toshiaki , Fukuda Tomohiro , Yoshioka Kyoko , Ando Katsuyoshi , Fukuzawa Masakatsu , Andoh Akira , Yamamoto Yosuke , Hibi Toshifumi , Kobayashi Taku ,   IBD Terakoya Group
Published: March 2022

Background

The increasing incidence of older‐onset ulcerative colitis (UC), which has a higher risk of surgery, is a global health issue. However, data regarding intravenous steroid treatment, one of the important treatment options to avoid surgery, for older‐onset UC is lacking.

Aims

To evaluate the association between onset age and effectiveness of intravenous steroids in UC.

Methods

This retrospective multicentre (27 facilities) cohort study included moderate‐to‐severe hospitalised UC patients who underwent their first intravenous steroids between April 2014 and July 2019. The primary outcome was clinical remission at day 30, using two‐item patient‐reported outcome scoring. The key secondary outcomes were risks of surgery and adverse events (death, infection and venous thrombosis) within 90 days. A modified Poisson regression model was used for analysis.

Results

Overall, 467 UC patients (384 younger‐onset and 83 older‐onset) were enrolled. Clinical remission at day 30 was observed in 252 (65.6%) among younger‐onset patients and 43 (51.8%) among older‐onset patients (adjusted risk difference, −21.7% [95% CI, −36.1% to −7.2%]; adjusted risk ratio [ARR], 0.74 [95% CI, 0.59 to 0.93]). The risks of surgery and adverse events were higher in older‐onset UC (20.5% vs. 3.1%; ARR, 8.92 [95% CI, 4.13 to 19.27], 25.3% vs. 9.1%; ARR, 2.19 [95% CI, 1.22 to 3.92], respectively). Four deaths occurred, all involving older‐onset UC. The risks of infection and venous thrombosis were also higher in older‐onset UC (18.1% vs. 8.6%, 7.2% vs. 0.5%, respectively).

Conclusions

Older‐onset was associated with a lower effectiveness of intravenous steroids with higher risks of surgery and adverse events in UC.
Fingolimod ameliorates acetic acid‐induced ulcerative colitis: An insight into its modulatory impact on pro/anti‐inflammatory cytokines and AKT/mTOR signalling
Authors: Makled Mirhan N. , Serrya Marwa S. , El‐Sheakh Ahmed R.
Published: March 2022

Background

Because of the approved immunomodulatory activities of fingolimod, the current study aimed at studying the curative potential of fingolimod against experimentally induced ulcerative colitis (UC) via modulating pro/anti‐inflammatory cytokines release and AKT/mTOR signalling.

Methods

UC was induced in rats by intracolonic instillation of acetic acid. Fingo (0.5 mg/kg/day, p.o.) was given for 8 consecutive days that started 48 h after UC induction.

Results

Fingolimod increased body weight growth rate and colon body/weight and colon weight/length indices compared to the UC group. Fingolimod significantly decreased clinical evaluation score and macroscopic score compared to the UC group. The curative potential of fingolimod was further confirmed by histopathological examination revealing marked attenuation of mucosal injury and inflammatory cells infiltration. Fingolimod significantly decreased colon malondialdehyde content and increased colon glutathione contents compared to the UC group. Fingolimod also significantly decreased the expressions of pro‐inflammatory cytokines interleukin‐9 and T‐helper 17 along with increasing the expression of anti‐inflammatory interleukin‐10 and transforming growth factor‐β compared to the UC group. In addition, fingolimod decreased the expressions of AKT and mTOR compared to the UC group.

Conclusion

Fingolimod attenuated acetic acid‐induced UC through its immunomodulatory effect by shifting the balance to favour anti‐inflammatory cytokine production rather than pro‐inflammatory cytokines and modulating the AKT/mTOR signalling.
Preterm and low birthweight birth in the United States: Black midwives speak of causality, prevention, and healing
Authors: Bridgeman‐Bunyoli Arika M. , Cheyney Melissa , Monroe Shafia M. , Wiggins Noelle , Vedam Saraswathi
Published: March 2022

Background

Low birthweight (LBW) and preterm birth (PTB) are more common among Black infants than white infants in the United States. Although multiple hypotheses have been proposed to explain elevated rates of PTB and LBW, the perspectives of Black midwives who serve Black communities are largely missing from the literature.

Methods

Using semi‐structured interviews and focus groups with a purposive sample of midwives (n = 29), we elicited midwives' perceptions of PTB and LBW causation, as well as insights on culturally congruent strategies for prevention. We used consensus coding and reciprocal ethnography to increase the rigor of our analyses.

Results

Midwives identified three intersecting and predisposing root causes: (1) systemic racism; (2) the epigenetic legacy of enslavement; and (3) ongoing cultural loss. In response to these stressors, midwives recommended variants of two additional themes—(4) community building; and (5) culturally centered care—as essential to reversing mortality trends among Black babies.

Discussion

Midwives' perspectives, which are supported by relevant literature, provide critical insights that should inform both research and policy aimed at promoting birth justice in the United States and beyond.
An exchange orientation results in an instrumental approach in intimate relationships
Authors: Wang Xijing , Chen Hao , Chen Zhansheng , Luo Shanhong
Published: March 2022

Although the possession of instrumentality (i.e., partner B being useful to partner A’s goal pursuit) can facilitate relationship satisfaction, taking an instrumental approach (i.e., A focusing on B’s usefulness and seeing B as a tool to facilitate personal goal attainment) is (often) considered as a callous and depersonalized approach to forming relationships. The current research examined whether adopting an exchange orientation amplifies the tendency for people to take an instrumental approach via the motive to maximize self‐gain. Four studies (N = 1446) utilizing samples across different countries, including the United Kingdom, the United States and China, supported this hypothesis. Specifically, during relationship initiation, an exchange (vs. non‐exchange) orientation made participants place higher importance on instrumentality rather than traits facilitating intimacy and bonding (Study 1). For established relationships, participants who chronically adopted an exchange orientation (Study 2) and who were temporarily induced to do so (vs. control; Study 3) were more likely to view their significant other as a tool. The final quasi‐experiment (Study 4) showed that requiring or being required to offer a bride price – an embodiment of exchange orientation – predicted instrumentality in marriage and subsequently impaired relationship satisfaction. Implications are discussed.
Primary school reopenings and parental work
Authors: Beauregard Pierre‐Loup , Connolly Marie , Haeck Catherine , Molnár Tímea Laura
Published: March 2022

In this paper, we exploit the geographical pattern of primary school reopenings during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Canada to estimate the impact of school reopenings on parental employment and work hours. We use a triple‐difference approach, in which we first compare parents of primary‐school children in regions where schools reopened to similar parents in regions where schools remained closed and add parents of older, secondary‐school children as an additional control group. We estimate the impact of school reopenings separately for mothers and fathers, and for single parents and parents living in dual‐parent households. We find a positive impact of school reopenings on employment and on actual hours worked. The effects tend to be stronger for single mothers, but are also present for mothers and fathers in dual‐parent households in the spring of 2020. Overall, single mothers experienced an 18 percentage point increase in their employment at work rate following school reopenings. We also split our sample according to whether the job can be done from home, and find stronger impacts for those whose jobs cannot easily be done from home.