bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Endometriosis and Severe Maternal Morbidity
Authors: Lafleur Nahantara , Wei Shu Qin , Bilodeau-Bertrand Marianne , Auger Nathalie
Published: November 2022

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the association between endometriosis and risk of severe maternal morbidity (SMM).

METHODS:

We conducted a population-based retrospective cohort study of 2,412,823 deliveries at hospitals in Quebec, Canada, between 1989 and 2019. The exposure was surgically confirmed endometriosis. Patients were classified as having active endometriosis during pregnancy, inactive endometriosis during pregnancy, a diagnosis of endometriosis postpregnancy, or no endometriosis. The outcome was SMM, including by a range of life-threatening maternal conditions during pregnancy or up to 42 days postdelivery. We computed rates of SMM and used log binomial regression to assess the association with endometriosis (risk ratio [RR]; 95% CI), adjusted for maternal characteristics.

RESULTS:

Severe maternal morbidity occurred in 46.2 of 1,000 patients with endometriosis, compared with 30.7 of 1,000 patients without endometriosis. Relative to no exposure, endometriosis was associated with 1.43 times the risk of SMM (95% CI 1.36–1.51). Patients with endometriosis that was active during pregnancy had a greater risk of SMM (RR 1.93; 95% CI 1.76–2.11). Active endometriosis was associated with the risk of severe preeclampsia and eclampsia, severe hemorrhage, hysterectomy, cardiac complications, embolism, shock, sepsis, and intensive care unit admission. Inactive endometriosis was less strongly associated with these outcomes.

CONCLUSION:

Pregnant patients with endometriosis, especially active endometriosis, have a greater risk of SMM and may benefit from closer follow-up to prevent severe complications of pregnancy.
Fused Clitoral Hood Presenting as a Periclitoral Mass
Authors: Maybury Edward K. , Recio Fernando O. , Ahmad Sarfraz , McKenzie Nathalie D.
Published: November 2022

BACKGROUND:

Periclitoral masses are seldom reported. One cause is a congenitally fused clitoral prepuce (or clitoral hood).

CASE:

A patient was referred to our gynecologic oncology practice with a suspicious periclitoral mass for evaluation of possible malignancy. The clitoral hood was, in fact, fused such that the glans was completely covered. Surgical excision of the distal prepuce (or clitoral hood) expelled trapped sebaceous material and revealed a normal-appearing glans clitoris. Clitoral hood reconstruction restored the patient's external genitalia to normal anatomy.

CONCLUSION:

Fused clitoral prepuce causing trapped sebaceous material can mimic an expanding periclitoral mass and should be considered in the differential diagnosis.
Effects of genetic polymorphisms on methotrexate levels and toxicity in Chinese patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Hao Qishan , Song Yang , Fang Qiuyun , Lin Yani , Chen Long , Wang Xiaodan , Zhang Ping , Wang Zhe , Gong Xiaoyuan , Liu Kaiqi , Li Qinghua , Tian Zheng , Wang Min , Wang Jianxiang , Mi Yingchang
Published: November 2022

Methotrexate (MTX) has an antitumor effect when used for the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). This study aims at evaluating the associations between 14 polymorphisms of six genes involved in MTX metabolism with serum MTX concentration and toxicity accompanying high-dose MTX. Polymorphisms in 183 Chinese patients with ALL were analyzed using TaqMan single nucleotide polymorphism genotyping assay. The serum MTX concentration was determined using homogeneous enzyme immunoassay. MTX-related toxicities were also evaluated. Renal toxicity was significantly associated with higher serum MTX concentrations at 24, 48, and 72 hours, and MTX elimination delay (P = 0.001, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, and P < 0.001, respectively), whereas SLCO1B1 rs4149056 was associated with serum MTX concentrations at 48 and 72 hours, and MTX elimination delay in candidate polymorphisms (P = 0.014, P = 0.019, and P = 0.007, respectively). SLC19A1 rs2838958 and rs3788200 were associated with serum MTX concentrations at 24 hours (P = 0.016, P = 0.043, respectively). MTRR rs1801394 was associated with serum MTX concentrations at 72 hours (P = 0.045). Neutropenia was related to SLC19A1 rs4149056 (odds ratio [OR]: 3.172, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.310–7.681, P = 0.011). Hepatotoxicity was associated with ABCC2 rs2273697 (OR: 3.494, 95% CI: 1.236–9.873, P = 0.018) and MTRR rs1801394 (OR: 0.231, 95% CI: 0.084–0.632, P = 0.004). Polymorphisms of SLCO1B1, SLC19A1, ABCC2, and MTRR genes help predict higher risk of increased MTX levels or MTX-related toxicities in adult ALL patients.
Impact of Scalene Muscle Botulinum Toxin Injection With and Without Surgery in Neurogenic Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Authors: Fereydooni Arash , Ho Vy T. , Olson Emily Miller , Dyrek Paige , Harris Taylor , Kussman Andrea , Roh Eugene , Lee Jason T.
Published: November 2022

Objective:

Scalene blocks are part of both the diagnostic and treatment algorithm for patients presenting with symptoms of neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (nTOS). However, there is a paucity of data on the utility of scalene botulinum toxin injection (BTI) before surgical decompression. We sought to determine the impact of BTI with and without surgery at a multidisciplinary referral center.

Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting:

Single institution tertiary academic center, 2011 to 2020.

Patients:

Seventy-seven consecutive patients.

Interventions:

Scalene muscle BTI for nTOS with or without surgical decompression.

Main Outcome Measures:

Pain relief and Quick Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QDASH) score.

Results:

Seventy-seven patients, with a mean age of 31.4 years, had BTI for symptoms of nTOS. All patients underwent pretreatment physical therapy through the Edgelow protocol for a mean duration of 3.4 months. However, 72.7% had dynamic vascular compression on duplex ultrasound with provocative maneuvers and 85.7% had a positive physical examination finding. After BTI, 77.9% reported subjective relief, confirmed by an improved QDASH disability score. Thirty-one patients (40.3%) then went on to have further persistent symptoms and proceeded with first rib resection. After BTI + Surgery, 96.8% reported symptomatic relief and had a median QDASH score improvement of 21 (range: 10-40), with all reaching minimal clinically important differences in the QDASH score after combination therapy.

Conclusions:

In this reported series of chemodenervation in patients with nTOS, BTI is helpful in alleviating symptoms before definitive surgical decompression. BTI followed by first rib resection provides additional symptom improvement over BTI alone.
Primary central nervous system lymphoma: advances in its pathogenesis, molecular markers and targeted therapies
Authors: Hernández-Verdin Isaias , Morales-Martínez Andrea , Hoang-Xuan Khê , Alentorn Agustí
Published: November 2022

Purpose of review

Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) is a rare subtype of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) located in the CNS with a less favorable prognosis. Recent information addressing the disease molecular heterogeneity is paving the way for tailored treatment strategies. This article reviews current work on the pathogenesis of the disease, potential biomarkers, and treatments.

Recent findings

Previous molecular classifications of PCNSL, built on DLBCL heterogeneity, did not properly address its intrinsic variability. Recent evidence has shown the existence of four different molecular PCNSL subtypes with associated multiomic characteristics, including prognostic relevance. Several studies have identified the tumor microenvironment (TME) as a driving prognostic factor in PCNSL. Therapy efforts continue mainly into targeting either the NF-κβ (nuclear factor kappa-light-chain enhancer of activated B cells) pathway or modulating the TME through immunomodulatory drugs (lenalidomide) or immunotherapy (antiprogrammed cell death 1/programmed cell death 1 ligand 1).

Despite the increasing understanding of PCNSL pathogenesis with recent studies, future efforts are still needed to yield diagnostic biomarkers to detect either PCNSL or its molecular subtypes and hence ease routine clinical use.
Effects of surrounding frames and inner targeted line segments on event-related potentials in geometric-optical illusions
Authors: Yang Lan , Sui Li
Published: November 2022

Objective

The Sander illusion and the horizontal-vertical (H-V) illusion are both size and orientation geometric-optical illusions. The Sander geometric figures can be simply regarded as being made up of surrounding frames and inner targeted line segments. Similarly, H-V illusory geometric figures are made up of the targeted line segments. The role of surrounding frames and inner targeted line segments in the perception and cognition of geometric-optical illusions is not well understood.

Methods

The time course of event-related potentials (ERP) and the ERP-based standardized low-resolution electromagnetic tomography (sLORETA) source localization were investigated in the Sander illusion and the H-V illusion, which had the same length as the targeted line segments, respectively. The P1, N1, P2, N2 and P3 components of the ERP were focused and measured.

Results

The ERP results demonstrated that the existence of surrounding frames in the Sander illusions-induced significant alterations in the P1, N1, P2, N2 and P3 components, compared with the H-V illusion without surrounding frames. In the Sander illusion, different tilted line segments and surrounding frames resulted in significant differences in the P2, N2 and P3 components. The sLORETA results also demonstrated brain activities of source localization as a function of the surrounding frames and the tilted inner line segments.

Conclusions

These findings implicate that the perceptual and cognitive processes of the geometric-optical illusions are correlated to the surrounding frames/background, as well as the orientation/direction of inner targeted line segments in geometric figures.
Perceived gaze direction affects recollection processes in recognition of concrete and abstract words: electrophysiological evidence
Authors: Chen Yun , Zhao Chenyuan , Liu Rong
Published: November 2022

Studies have revealed that memory performance can be affected by perceived gaze direction. However, it remains unclear whether direct gaze promotes or hinders word memory, and the effect of gaze direction on memory of words with different concreteness requires investigation. In the study phase, concrete and abstract words were presented on direct- or averted-gaze faces, and participants were instructed to judge gaze direction and memorize words. In the test phase, participants were asked to discriminate whether a word was old or new. Electroencephalogram recordings were taken in both phases. Behavioral and time-frequency results verified the direct-gaze memory advantage, showing that memory performance was better in the direct-gaze condition than the averted-gaze condition for both concrete and abstract words. Event-related potential results showed that in both direct- and averted-gaze conditions, the early old/new effects (FN400) associated with familiarity were only elicited for concrete words but not abstract words. The late old/new effects (LPC) associated with recollection were elicited in all conditions. More importantly, concrete words elicited greater LPC than abstract words in the direct-gaze condition, whereas there was no such significant LPC difference in the averted-gaze condition. Topographic map analysis found that neural generators between concrete and abstract words differed in the direct-gaze condition but not in the averted-gaze condition. The study supports the hypothesis that direct-gaze promotes memory performance. Furthermore, it is mainly in memory recollection that gaze direction affects words with different concreteness.
The landscape of bacterial antibiotic susceptibility in a multi-tier ophthalmology network in India: an electronic medical record driven analytics report
Authors: Das Anthony Vipin , Joseph Joveeta
Published: November 2022

Introduction. Injudicious use of antibiotics often leads to antibiotic resistance which contributes to significant morbidity and mortality. Knowledge of local antibiogram is important in informing appropriate empiric antimicrobial therapy.

Hypothesis / Gap. It is the first and largest study that examines bacterial isolates from multiple ocular infections across South India and provides a overview of susceptibility patterns for each individual bacteria in the detailed interactive dashboard.

Aim. To study the landscape of bacterial antibiotic susceptibility patterns of ocular infections in patients undergoing microbiological investigations across a multi-tier ophthalmology network in India.

Methodology. This cross-sectional hospital-based study included 15 822 patients in whom microbiology samples were analysed between September 2013 and December 2021. Ocular tissue of patients in whom a microbiology sample was processed in at least one eye were included as cases. The data were collected using an indigenously developed electronic medical record (EMR) system.

Results. Among the 15 822 patients, bacteria (51.06 %) was the most common aetiology, followed by fungus (38.27 %). The majority of the patients were male (68.10 %) and the majority were adults (90.01 %). The most common age group was during the sixth decade with 2914 (18.42 %) patients. The patients were more commonly from the lower socio-economic status (51.61 %) and rural geography (46.82 %). The majority of the specimens sent for microbiological analysis were corneal scraping (68.61 %). Gram-positive cocci and Gram-positive bacilli were most sensitive towards vancomycin (86.83 and 92.89% respectively) followed by cefazolin (80.88 %) and amikacin, while Gram-negative bacilli were most sensitive towards ofloxacin (65.24%).

Conclusion. The most common aetiology of infection in ocular disease is bacterial and the majority of the patients presented from the rural geography and from lower socio-economic status. While vancomycin continues to be the drug of choice for Gram-positive organisms, increasing resistance to fluoroquinolones and ceftazidime was observed. Adoption of this model will enable access to antimicrobial susceptibility data, leading to reliable decisions and better clinical outcomes.
Mobility and ART retention among men in Malawi: a mixed methods study
Authors: Thorp Marguerite , Bellos MacDaphton , Temelkovska Tijana , Mphande Misheck , Cornell Morna , Hubbard Julie , Choko Augustine , Coates Tom , Hoffman Risa , Dovel Kathryn
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Mobility is associated with worse outcomes across the HIV treatment cascade, especially among men. However, little is known about the mechanisms that link mobility and poor HIV outcomes and what types of mobility most increase the risk of treatment interruption among men in southern Africa.

Methods

From August 2021 – January 2022, we conducted a mixed-methods study with men living with HIV (MLHIV) but not currently receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Malawi. Data collection was embedded within two larger trials (ENGAGE and IDEaL trials). We analyzed baseline survey data of 223 men enrolled in the trials who reported being mobile (defined as spending ≥14 nights away from home in the past 12 months) using descriptive statistics and logistic regression. We then recruited 32 men for in-depth interviews regarding their travel experiences and ART utilization. We analyzed qualitative data using constant comparative methods.

Results

Survey data showed that 34% of men with treatment interruptions were mobile, with a median of 60 nights away from home in the past 12 months; 69% of trips were for income generation. More nights away from home in the past 12 months and having fewer household assets were associated with longer periods out of care. In interviews, men reported that travel was often unplanned, and men were highly vulnerable to exploitive employer demands, which led to missed appointments and ART interruption. Men made major efforts to stay in care but were often unable to access care on short notice, were denied ART refills at non-home facilities, and/or were treated poorly by providers, creating substantial barriers to remaining in and returning to care. Men desired additional multi-month dispensing (MMD), the ability to refill treatment at any facility in Malawi, and streamlined pre-travel refills at home facilities.

Conclusions

Men prioritize ART and struggle with the trade-offs between their own health and providing for their families. Mobility is an essential livelihood strategy for MLHIV in Malawi, but it creates conflict with ART retention, largely due to inflexible health systems. Targeted counseling and peer support, access to ART services anywhere in country, and MMD may improve outcomes for mobile men.
Identification of small molecules with virus growth enhancement properties
Authors: Jesús García-Murria Ma , Gadea-Salom Laura , Moreno Sandra , Zaragoza Oscar , Brun Alejandro , Mingarro Ismael , Martínez-Gil Luis
Published: November 2022

The novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has caused the pandemic disease known as coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). COVID-19 vaccines were developed at record speed and were authorized approximately a year after the original outbreak. This fast response saved the lives of countless individuals and reduced the disease burden of many more. The experience has served as a reminder of the necessity to implement solid vaccine development platforms and fast production pipelines. Manufacturing vaccines for enveloped viruses, including some SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, often relies on the production of large quantities of viruses in vitro. Thus, speeding up or increasing virus production would expedite vaccine development. With this objective in mind, we established a high throughput screening (HTS) to identify small molecules that enhance or speed up host-virus membrane fusion. Among the HTS hits, we identified that ethynylestradiol augments SARS-CoV-2 fusion activity in both the absence and presence of TMPRSS2. Furthermore, we confirmed that ethynylestradiol can boost the growth of not only SARS-CoV-2 but also Influenza A virus in vitro. A small molecule with these characteristics could be implemented to improve vaccines production.

Importance

The (COVID-19) pandemic had a tremendous impact on our healthcare systems and the global economy. The rapid development of effective vaccines saved the lives of countless individuals and reduced the disease burden of many more. Intending to increase vaccine production, we developed and performed a high-throughput screening (HTS) to identify small molecules that enhance viral and cellular membrane fusion. Among the HTS hits, we confirmed that Ethynylestradiol can boost the growth of SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza A virusin vitro.
Medical Abortion Self Use in Kenya: Results from a process evaluation of women’s experiences
Authors: Ouma Japheth O. , Musimbi Linah A. , Ngoga Edward O. , Sigu Steve B. , Otieno Beatrice A. , Akol Angela
Published: November 2022

Background

The consequences of unsafe abortions weigh heavily on individuals, families, society, and health care systems. Developing countries continue to experience a high prevalence of mistimed and unintended pregnancies resulting in induced abortions that are largely unsafe. Globally, 25 million unsafe abortions take place every year [1]. In Africa, 3 out of 4 abortions are categorized as unsafe [2]. In Kenya, it is estimated that 464,690 induced abortions occur annually- 2 out of 3 of these are unsafe[3]. With the high prevalence of mistimed and unwanted pregnancies in Sub-Saharan Africa and Kenya in particular, unsafe abortions will be on the rise unless deliberate measures and policies are put in place to guarantee safe abortion procedures[4].

Method

Ipas Africa Alliance embarked on the Medical Abortion Self-Use (MASU) project aimed at reducing morbidity and mortality tied to unintended pregnancies among women in the Counties of Vihiga, Kisumu, Busia, Siaya, and Trans Nzoia. To inform on the progress and the potential for scale-up of the project, Ipas commissioned a process evaluation. This evaluation adopted both qualitative and quantitative methods. This involved in-depth interviews (IDIs), Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), and face-face-interviews through a semi-structured questionnaire.

Results

From the analysis, those seeking medical abortion were mainly youths under 25 years of age. There was low awareness of safe abortion practices and the gestation period within which safe medical abortion (MA) can be safely done. Nearly half (47%) of the women and girls reported being coerced to take post-abortion contraceptives they never wanted. Further, MA costs were not only found to be expensive but also varied greatly across the Counties. Some MA users experienced medical complications attributed to the failure of pharmacists responsible to provide the correct dose and correct route of administration. On the other hand, youth champions were found to be few and not able to fully cover their areas and only have basic knowledge of MA self-use services.

Conclusion

The IPAS MASU project intervention, in the five counties of Western Kenya namely Busia, Siaya, Vihiga, Kisumu, and Trans Nzoia, has increased access to safe Medical Abortion self-use, enhanced availability of MA drugs in pharmacies, the improved service delivery of MA services through regular training of pharmacists. Further, the project has enhanced awareness about MA services among young girls and women through trained Youth Champions and pharmacists, and the MASU project has significantly reduced cases of unsafe abortions and by extension deaths and medical complications associated with them. To realize more gains, the project needs to be scaled up within the five counties and beyond, specifically to target the rural areas where cases of unsafe abortion are still thought to be rampant.
A new LD protein, ApoL6 disrupts the Perilipin 1-HSL interaction to inhibit lipolysis
Authors: Wang Yuhui , Nguyen Hai P , Xue Pengya , Xie Ying , Yi Danielle , Lin Frances , Viscarra Jose A , Ibe Nnejiuwa U , Duncan Robin E , Sul Hei Sook
Published: November 2022

ApoL6 is a new LD-associated protein containing an apoprotein-like domain, expressed mainly in adipose tissue, specifically in adipocytes. ApoL6 expression is low in fasting but induced upon feeding. ApoL6 knockdown results in smaller LD with lower triglyceride (TAG) content in adipocytes, while ApoL6 overexpression causes larger LD with higher TAG content. We show that ApoL6 effect in adipocytes is by inhibition of lipolysis. While ApoL6, Perilipin 1 (Plin1) and HSL can form a complex on LD, C-terminal domain of ApoL6 directly interacts with Plin1, to compete with Plin1 binding to HSL through Plin1 N-terminal domain, thereby keeping HSL in a “stand by” status. Thus, ApoL6 ablation decreases WAT mass, protecting mice from diet-induced obesity, while adipose overexpression increases WAT mass to bring obesity and insulin resistance with hepatosteatosis, making ApoL6 a potential future target against obesity and diabetes.
The in-situ re-melting post-treatment on properties of atmosphere plasma-sprayed FeCoCrMoCBY amorphous alloy coating
Authors: Han Chao , Ma Li , Ma Bo Jiang , Huang Guosheng , Ma Ying Xiang
Published: November 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to verify weather atmospheric plasma spray (APS) in situ remelting posttreatment is effective for densifying the porous FeCoCrMoCBY amorphous alloy (FAA) coating and improving the antiabrasion and anticorrosion performances or not.

Design/methodology/approach

APS was used to deposit and in situ densify FAA coating on the 40Cr substrate. Scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffractometer, energy dispersive spectroscopy, neutral salt spray, hardness and wear behavior test were used to evaluate the densifying effects.

Findings

APS remelting technology can effectively improve the hardness of the coating by reducing the porosity. After remelting at 30 kW power, the hardness of the coating increased by about 260 HV0.2 and the porosity decreased to 2.78%. The amorphous content of the coating is 93.9%, which is about 3.5% lower than original powders. The electrochemical impedance spectrum and neutral salt spray test results show that APS remelting can reduce the corrosion rate by about 62.7%.

Originality/value

APS remelting method is firstly proposed in this work to replace laser remelting or laser cladding methods. APS remelting method can effectively improve the corrosion and abrasion resistance of the FAA coating by increasing the densification with much low recrystallization, which is big progress for application of FAA coatings.
NIVA: business expansion dilemma
Authors: Ghaffari Fard Rozita , Fulzele Vijayta , Kumar Jitender
Published: November 2022

Learning outcomes

The purpose of this case is to expose readers to the dilemma of expanding domestically or internationally and simultaneously taking key decisions while expanding the business to the international markets. It could be a foundational case for understanding international expansion and growth strategies.

After the case analysis, students would be able to:

• understand the potential of the domestic market and the factors affecting the international expansion;

• evaluate the various methods to enter an international market;

• identify the challenges of expanding a business into emerging markets such as India;

• analyze the various growth and expansion strategies in an emerging market such as India; and

• assess the online promotion strategies in an emerging market.

Case overview/synopsis

NIVA, The Satin Collection, is a manufacturer and distributor of a luxury collection of silk and satin products. Founded in 2020, NIVA is based in Dubai with more than 1,000 customers. The products include silk bedding, silk sleepwear, fashion accessories and reusable satin masks, and they are made-to-order, custom-made and tailored locally in Dubai. Currently, all the operations are run and managed by the company’s founder, Purva. The only operation which is outsourced is the stitching process. The company is completely operating online and is currently promoting products only through social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook.

Purva is planning to expand her business. The two options are extending her existing operations in the UAE and expanding to other emerging markets, starting with India. Purva needs to decide on a suitable internationalization strategy to decide whether it is the right decision to enter the Indian market, including an entry and promotion strategy in her target market. In addition, she needs to decide whether to continue with NIVA’s current business model in India. There might also be additional possible challenges for NIVA in entering the Indian market.

Complexity academic level

Postgraduate MBA students, other graduate-level management programs and undergraduate-level students.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 5: International Business.
Indoor air quality monitoring and management in hospitality: an overarching framework
Authors: Zanni Sara , Mura Matteo , Longo Mariolina , Motta Gabriella , Caiulo Davide
Published: November 2022

Purpose

This study aims to provide a comprehensive framework for the study of indoor air quality (IAQ) in hospitality premises. The goal is to identify the drivers of air pollution, both at the exogenous and endogenous level, to generate insights for facility managers.

Design/methodology/approach

The complexity of hospitality premises requires an integrated approach to properly investigate IAQ. The authors develop an overarching framework encompassing a monitoring method, based on real-time sensors, a technological standard and a set of statistical analyses for the assessment of both IAQ performance and drivers, based on correlation analyses, analysis of variance and multivariate regressions.

Findings

The findings suggest that the main drivers of IAQ differ depending on the area monitored: areas in contact with the outdoors or with high ventilation rates, such as halls, are affected by outdoor air quality more than guestrooms or fitness areas, where human activities are the main sources of contamination.

Research limitations/implications

The results suggest that the integration of IAQ indicators into control dashboards would support management decisions, both in defining protocols to support resilience of the sector in a postpandemic world and in directing investments on the premises. This would also address guests’ pressing demands for a broader approach to cleanliness and safety and support their satisfaction and intention to return.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study developing a comprehensive framework to systematically address IAQ and its drivers, based on a standard and real-time monitoring. The framework has been applied across the longest period of monitoring for a hospitality premise thus far and over an entire hotel facility.
Role of financial literacy in investment choices of financial consumers: an insight from India
Authors: Arora Jagriti , Chakraborty Madhumita
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The study aims to address two objectives. First, to examine the socioeconomic and demographic factors contributing to financial literacy and second, to analyze if financial literacy affects investment choices.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses financial inclusion insights (FII) survey data conducted by Intermedia, comprising 47,132 individuals in India. Further, instrument variable estimation has been used to analyze the relationship between financial literacy and individuals' investment choices.

Findings

The study finds that differences in financial literacy level can be attributed to various socioeconomic/demographic factors like age, gender, education levels, income, location of residence, sources of information, etc. Econometric analyses indicate that financial literacy influences investment decisions, mainly in businesses and traditional assets such as gold, property, etc.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the growing literature on financial literacy in the context of developing countries like India and highlights the role of financial literacy in how individuals make investment choices. Using a novel instrument, i.e. participation in the stock market by family or peers for advanced financial literacy, the results provide evidence that advanced financial literacy among individuals increases the probability of their stock market participation.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at:https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-12-2021-0764.
The impact of human resource and information technology on supply chain learning and operational performance
Authors: Haq Muhammad Zia Ul , Asadullah Muhammad Ali , Manzoor Faiza
Published: November 2022

Purpose

No study examines the role of human resources management (HRM) and information technology (IT) in stimulating supply chain learning (SCL) and operational performance. The purpose of this study is to empirically examine the impact of HRM and IT on SCL (i.e. internal, supplier and customer learning) and operational performance using socio-technical systems theory.

Design/methodology/approach

On the basis of data obtained from 213 Chinese manufacturing firms, the authors apply structural equation modeling to test the conceptual model.

Findings

This study finds that HRM improves all three dimensions of SCL, whereas IT improves internal and supplier learning only. The authors also observe that internal and customer learning improves operational performance. Supplier learning, on the other hand, has no influence on operational performance.

Practical implications

This study offers new guidelines that help managers to better understand how to design sociotechnical systems to improve SCL and operational performance.

Originality/value

The results of this study provide a novel framework to recognize linkages between socio-technical systems, SCL and operational performance.
SAT: a methodology to assess the social acceptance of innovative AI-based technologies
Authors: Occhipinti Carmela , Carnevale Antonio , Briguglio Luigi , Iannone Andrea , Bisconti Piercosma
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the conceptual model of an innovative methodology (SAT) to assess the social acceptance of technology, especially focusing on artificial intelligence (AI)-based technology.

Design/methodology/approach

After a review of the literature, this paper presents the main lines by which SAT stands out from current methods, namely, a four-bubble approach and a mix of qualitative and quantitative techniques that offer assessments that look at technology as a socio-technical system. Each bubble determines the social variability of a cluster of values: User-Experience Acceptance, Social Disruptiveness, Value Impact and Trust.

Findings

The methodology is still in development, requiring further developments, specifications and validation. Accordingly, the findings of this paper refer to the realm of the research discussion, that is, highlighting the importance of preventively assessing and forecasting the acceptance of technology and building the best design strategies to boost sustainable and ethical technology adoption.

Social implications

Once SAT method will be validated, it could constitute a useful tool, with societal implications, for helping users, markets and institutions to appraise and determine the co-implications of technology and socio-cultural contexts.

Originality/value

New AI applications flood today’s users and markets, often without a clear understanding of risks and impacts. In the European context, regulations (EU AI Act) and rules (EU Ethics Guidelines for Trustworthy) try to fill this normative gap. The SAT method seeks to integrate the risk-based assessment of AI with an assessment of the perceptive-psychological and socio-behavioural aspects of its social acceptability.
Technology behind text to image generators
Authors: Fernandez Peter
Published: November 2022

Purpose

This column aims to provides an overview of the techniques that make text-to-image generators possible.

Design/methodology/approach

This column will be the first in a two-part series, exploring the impacts of text-to-image software with an emphasis on libraries.

Findings

It shows how advances in machine learning and the particular technique of diffusion are critical building blocks for artificial intelligence.

Originality/value

Understanding these technologies and large data sets, which are often scraped by public users, help information professionals understand how this software may further develop, as well as how to help guide their patrons.
The effect of the rules- versus principles-based accounting standards on opinion shopping
Authors: Chung Heesun , Kim Yewon
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine whether the change in accounting standards from the rules-based local GAAP to the principles-based IFRS influences a manager’s opportunistic auditor choice for a favorable audit opinion, opinion shopping (OS) behavior. The authors view that IFRS adopters exploit the flexibility of IFRS to their advantage and search for auditors that are more likely to give clean opinions. However, auditors may refuse to yield to client pressure for OS, because of the greater potential audit risk under principles-based standards.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applies a difference-in-differences methodology by using Korean listed firms (i.e. IFRS adopters) as a treatment sample and Korean unlisted firms that do not voluntarily adopt IFRS (i.e. K-GAAP users) as the control sample. OS behavior is measured by the methodology of Lennox (2000).

Findings

The results of this study show that the OS behavior of IFRS adopters increases after IFRS adoption compared to that of K-GAAP users. This phenomenon is more prevalent when they are audited by non-Big 4 auditors or when they are economically important to auditors. These suggest that the principles-based IFRS without specific rules increase the scope of OS, and auditors tend to accept OS clients by weighing up its costs and benefits.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature on OS by presenting that the approach of accounting standards can be an important influencing factor on a firm’s successful engagement in OS. This finding also provides policy implications for many economies by suggesting mechanisms that can be developed to reduce clients’ opportunistic auditor choices under principles-based accounting standards.
A quest from deep within: the construction of entrepreneurial identity and progression of entrepreneurial passion
Authors: Zainuddin Muhammad Nizam , Tasnim Rahayu , Mukhtar Dzulkifli
Published: November 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to examine how the construction of entrepreneurial identity in a cross-disciplinary postgraduate entrepreneurship education program influence students’ entrepreneurial passion progression as they enact different role identities and concurrently deal with competing microidentities.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the interpretative phenomenological analysis approach, an in-depth study of postgraduate students’ accounts of their lived experiences is conducted.

Findings

Construction of entrepreneurial identity influences students’ entrepreneurial passion progression through a process of “identity ecdysis” that occurs deep within students’ microfoundations as they make sense of the entrepreneurial identity role while simultaneously accommodating their anticipated entrepreneurial life journey. During the transition stage, they begin to let go of their present personal identities and recast new ones based on the revised personal entrepreneurship action agenda. The motivation to change results from the underlying future moral obligation, via a quest to uphold entrepreneurial virtues toward their significant immediate social circles as the aspiring professionals with newly equipped entrepreneurship proficiency. Entrepreneurial passion deepens as they come to grips with their new personal identities as well as new roles and responsibilities.

Research limitations/implications

While this study establishes a foundation for understanding how entrepreneurial passion progresses and is encouraged within an educational framework, it has the potential to be tested on actual entrepreneurs in the macro identity workspace.

Practical implications

Entrepreneurship education programs’ learning experience structure should be designed based on the sources of entrepreneurial passion and is flexible enough to allow for in-depth exploration and self-introspection that supports the enactment of entrepreneurial characteristics that can benefit postgraduate students in their next career move by focusing on the internalization of entrepreneurial virtues, which enables the organic, autonomous construction of entrepreneurial identity. This approach may enable people’s entrepreneurial passions to evolve organically yet profoundly.

Social implications

The provision of entrepreneurial knowledge should be consistent with the goal of enabling students to organize and develop their own identities in pursuit of their next career trajectory.

Originality/value

The study highlights a phenomenon that happens deep inside people’s microfoundations, demonstrating the intensive interplay that exists between dialogic and identity workspaces at one of the established entrepreneurial universities.
Higher education based on cooperation and interdisciplinarity has a key role in a global sustainable development
Authors: Fredman Pam
Published: November 2022

Purpose

To highlight that, for higher education (HE) to fulfil its role and provide societies with the required knowledge and competencies that will enable a sustainable future, through research, education and campus operations, it needs to cooperate and promote interdisciplinarity within the sector and with society at large.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is a follow-up on the author´s presentation, as President for the International Association of Universities (IAU), at the IAUP triennial conference 2021. It is not presenting outcomes of a specific research project but rather a personal experience and reflections on challenges and opportunities debated at global HE conferences, national and international seminars, IAU publications and global surveys.

Findings

There are many publications on challenges and opportunities when it comes to developing and capitalizing on the social responsibility of HE for a sustainable development. However, there is a lack of discussion on internal institutional responsibilities and support for the societal value of HE beyond the sector.

Originality/value

This is the personal view of the author and builds on a long experience as scientist and academic leader.
Lessons learned designing and implementing a quality assurance system in an industrial engineering school
Authors: Benz-Camino Mariechen , Ramírez-Valdivia Martha T. , Morales-Casetti Marjorie , Sirias Danilo
Published: November 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to present the lessons learned during the design and implementation of a quality assurance system (QAS) in an academic unit and considers the regulatory changes to institutional accreditation in Chilean higher education, the international standard ISO 21001:2018, and the stakeholders’ requirements.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses an abductive approach to identify and evaluate the key factors to implementing a QAS in higher education institutions (HEI). Qualitative and quantitative data were collected through questionnaires, semistructured interviews, focus groups with stakeholders, a literature review and official institutional documents. Documents and interviews were subjected to content analysis using a process of inductive coding to identify and define topics or categories. A descriptive statistical analysis of categorical variables calculated the marginal frequency of each response. All information aided in designing the QAS for the school and its implementation plan.

Findings

This study highlights major challenges universities could face while implementing QAS, illuminating key principles and reflecting relevant practices. The lessons learned in this process show the importance of balancing accountability and continuous improvement while promoting a more receptive organizational culture, aligning the national and international standards in the early design stage, understanding the roles and responsibilities of the staff, having the support of a quality office and performing a gap analysis.

Originality/value

This work provides other HEI in need of designing and implementing a QAS with a conceptual and solid framework to integrate internal, external and international regulations of quality assurance criteria and standards. This paper could become a valuable reference for university managers, practitioners and quality professionals facing similar challenges.
Variation in outcome reporting in studies of fertility‐sparing surgery for cervical cancer: A systematic review
Authors: Yong Nathanael , Cooper Natalie , Yorke Sarah , Baran Chawan , Khan Khalid , Tan Alex , Sideris Michail , Iliodromiti Stamatina , Manchanda Ranjit
Published: November 2022

Background

Cervical cancer affects 3197 women in the UK, and 604 000 women worldwide annually, with peak incidence seen in women between 30 and 34 years of age. For many, fertility‐sparing surgery is an appealing option where possible. However, absence of large‐scale data, along with a notable variation in reported outcomes in relevant studies, may undermine future efforts for consistent evidence synthesis.

Objectives

To systematically review the reported outcomes measured in studies that include women who underwent fertility‐sparing surgery for cervical cancer and identify whether variation exists.

Search strategy

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and CENTRAL from inception to February 2019.

Selection criteria

Randomised controlled trials, cohort and observational studies, and case studies of more than ten participants from January 1990 to date.

Data collection and analysis

Study characteristics and all reported treatment outcomes.

Main results

A total of 104 studies with a sum of 9535 participants were identified. Most studies reported on oncological outcomes (97/104), followed by fertility and pregnancy (86/104), postoperative complications (74/104), intra‐operative complications (72/104) and quality of life (5/104). There was huge variation and heterogeneity in reported outcomes, with only 12% being good quality and 87% being of poor quality.

Conclusions

There is significant heterogeneity in the reported outcomes. An agreed Core Outcome Set is necessary for future studies to effectively harmonise reported outcomes that are measurable and relevant to patients, clinicians and researchers. This systematic review sets the groundwork for the development of a Core Outcome Set for fertility‐sparing surgery in cervical cancer.
Improving the chemical and sensory characteristics of red and white wines with pectinase‐producing non‐Saccharomyces yeasts
Authors: Paup Victoria D. , Barton Tara L. , Edwards Charles G. , Lange Iris , Lange B. Markus , Lee Jungmin , Ross Carolyn F.
Published: November 2022

This study examined the influence of pectinase‐producing non‐Saccharomyces yeasts on the chemical and sensory attributes of red and white wines with added pectin. Merlot and Chardonnay wines were produced with or without a mixture of pectinase‐producing non‐Saccharomyces yeasts (Cryptococcus adeliensis, Issatchenkia orientalis, and Pichia kluyveri) added to the must prior to alcoholic fermentation conducted by a commercial strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. To ensure sufficient substrate was present, varying concentrations of apple pectin (up to 1.25 g/L for red wines and 1.00 g/L for white wine) were added at the start of fermentation. After bottling, trained panelists (n = 10) analyzed these wines for aroma, flavor, taste, and mouthfeel attributes. For both wines, significant interactions were noted between the presence of non‐Saccharomyces yeasts and pectin addition which affected pH, titratable acidity, and concentrations of D‐galacturonic acid. While no significant sensory differences were observed among the red wines, limited changes were noted for white wines. However, a strong positive correlation was found between the D‐galacturonic acid and buttery aroma for Chardonnay and with flavor for Merlot. Increasing D‐galacturonic acid concentrations, through utilization of non‐Saccharomyces yeasts, may improve the wine quality as a buttery aroma is often associated with high‐quality Chardonnay. For both red and white wines, the utilization of these particular non‐Saccharomyces yeasts significantly influenced chemical properties but yielded minor sensory changes without any faults.

Practical Application

With the recent trend to reduce alcohol content in commercial wines, the interest in non‐Saccharomyces yeasts has grown. This study showed that the addition of non‐Saccharomyces yeasts, perhaps due to their pectinase activity, influenced the chemical characteristics of red and white wines with limited sensory differences, making these yeasts a useful tool for winemakers to modify wine properties.
On advance payments in tenders with budget constrained contractors
Authors: Birulin Oleksii , Izmalkov Sergei
Published: November 2022

We consider procurement auctions in settings where potential contractors have limited funds and face ex post risks, that is, cost overruns that can lead to the contractors' defaults. The bidding strategies and the default decisions are shaped by the incentive—willing to finish—constraints, and the resource—able to finish and feasibility—constraints. We examine payment schemes where the advance share of the award is paid immediately after the auction with the rest payable upon successful completion of the project. We identify the trade‐offs the procurer faces when choosing among such schemes, and explore the factors that influence the optimal advance share.