bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Green sukuk – Malaysia surviving the bumpy road: performance, challenges and reconciled issuance framework
Authors: Keshminder J.S. , Abdullah Mohammad Syafiq , Mardi Marina
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Green sukuk is a tool to finance climate change which has garnered considerable attention. However, having only recently come into existence has its own set of challenges for this tool that require immediate identification and government intervention to intensify its growth. This study aims to explore the challenges encountered by green sukuk issuers and the structure of a reconciled green sukuk issuance framework to speed up the market’s growth with the right interventions.

Design/methodology/approach

The study engaged a qualitative approach via multiple case study interviews with green sukuk issuers and used expert views for data triangulation to generate the findings. A total of four green sukuk issuers participated in the interviews, and for data triangulation purposes, four expert’s opinions and views were considered. The thematic analysis technique is used to report the findings.

Findings

It was revealed that amongst the challenges encountered in the green sukuk market are shoddy green taxonomy, difficulty in identifying green assets, it is time-consuming and costly, no compelling benefits and exposure to higher-risk profiles.

Research limitations/implications

This study may be influenced by observer error and observer bias. However, the researchers have taken cautious steps to overcome these issues by following strict case study methodology procedures and triangulating the qualitative research findings with views from green sukuk experts. These interventions increased the rigour and trustworthiness of the results.

Originality/value

This study is amongst the pioneer in Malaysia, exploring challenges in the green sukuk market. The results are relevant to governments, regulators, institutions and central banks to structure the right interventions to counter the challenges. Greater government involvement is required to strengthen the green sukuk market and to spearhead the green agenda.
Doing indigenous research in Vietnam public sector organisations: challenges and recommendations
Authors: Alang Tho
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This paper provides critical insights into the contextual challenges of researching indigenous people in Vietnam's public sector organisations.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on a study of indigenous employee voice and inclusion in public sector organisations in three locations in the Central Highlands region, the researcher engages in self and methodological reflections to explain the challenges faced.

Findings

This paper identifies and discusses the challenging issues of political sensitivity, data access, availability and consistency of quantitative data, and characteristics of indigenous participants in the context of Vietnam.

Practical implications

This paper benefits directly those who are interested in researching Vietnam's indigenous people in future. Further, it contributes to the global conversation on the challenges of conducting indigenous research, particularly in reaching out to indigenous populations and obtaining reliable data in order to capture indigenous voice and experiences.

Originality/value

There is a dearth of knowledge of indigenous research in non-Western countries where indigenous people are not recognised officially by the government. This paper addresses this knowledge gap by focusing on cultural, political and societal issues of indigenous research from Vietnam.
Preparation and selective laser sintering of nylon-12 coated copper powders
Authors: Fu Yi , Yan Chunze , Yang Xiao , Liu Zhufeng , Chen Peng , Li Zhaoqing
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to prepare metal/polymer composite materials prepared by additive manufacturing (AM) technology.

Design/methodology/approach

The effect of sintering parameters including laser power, scanning speed and slice thickness on strength and accuracy of selective laser sintering (SLS) parts were analyzed experimentally. Then, the laser sintering mechanism of nylon-12 coated copper was discussed through analyzing the interfacial reaction of nylon-12 and copper. The SLS parts were infiltrated with epoxy resin to meet the strength requirements of injection molding.

Findings

In this study, mechanical mixed nylon-12/copper and nylon-12 coated copper composite powders were investigated and compared as SLS materials. An effective dissolution–precipitation method was proposed to prepare nylon-12 coated copper powders with better processing and mechanical properties. The bending strength and modulus of fabricated parts after infiltration with epoxy reach 65.3 MPa and 3,200 MPa, respectively.

Originality/value

The composite materials can be used in the manufacture of injection molds with a conformal cooling channel for the production of common plastics in prototype quantities, showing a broad application prospect in rapid tooling.
Review on pressure sensors: a perspective from mechanical to micro-electro-mechanical systems
Authors: Jena Sudarsana , Gupta Ankur
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Considering its vast utility in industries, this paper aims to present a detailed review on fundamentals, classification and progresses in pressure sensors, along with its wide area of applications, its design aspects and challenges, to provide state-of-the-art gist to the researchers of the similar domain at one place.

Design/methodology/approach

Swiftly emerging research prospects in the micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) enable to build complex and sophisticated micro-structures on a substrate containing moving masses, cantilevers, flexures, levers, linkages, dampers, gears, detectors, actuators and many more on a single chip. One of the MEMS initial products that emerged into the micro-system technology is MEMS pressure sensor. Because of their high performance, low cost and compact in size, these sensors are extensively being adopted in numerous applications, namely, aerospace, automobile and bio-medical domain, etc. These application requirements drive and impose tremendous conditions on sensor design to overcome the tedious design and fabrication procedure before its reality. MEMS-based pressure sensors enable a wide range of pressure measurement as per the application requirements.

Findings

The paper provides a detailed review on fundamentals, classification and progresses in pressure sensors, along with its wide area of applications, its design aspects and challenges, to provide state of the art gist to the researchers of the similar domain at one place.

Originality/value

The present paper discusses the basics of MEMS pressure sensors, their working principles, different design aspects, classification, type of sensing diaphragm used and illustration of various transduction mechanisms. Moreover, this paper presents a comprehensive review on present trend of research on MEMS-based pressure sensors, its applications and the research gap observed till date along with the scope for future work, which has not been discussed in earlier reviews.
Airportscape and its effect on airport sense of place and destination image perception
Authors: Wattanacharoensil Walanchalee , Fakfare Pipatpong , Graham Anne
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This study aims to validate a conceptual definition of airportscape and develop a multidimensional scale that integrates servicescape and service quality dimensions to comprehensively investigate airport service management. In addition, this study examines the structural relationships amongst airportscape, sense of place, airport image and destination image.

Design/methodology/approach

Covariance-based structural equation modelling has been used. This study has collected the responses from 1,189 Thai respondents who had their experience in an international airport in the past 12 months.

Findings

Key findings reveal the set of three airportscape attributes which positively influenced the air traveller’s perceived sense of place. Four other dimensions were found to positively influence the airport image. The results also suggested the positive relationships amongst sense of place, airport image and destination image. Sense of place strongly predicted the destination image and airport image and was found to be an important mediator of the relationship between airportscape dimension and perceived image variables.

Originality/value

This study validates the airportscape scale and introduces “sense of place”, a concept that has not been objectively investigated in the airport context, and in relation to tourism. The findings provide insights to airport managers and tourism authorities by examining areas that highlight an airport’s sense of place and representation of the destination. The study also strengthens the theoretical link between airport and tourism knowledge, by showing that the airport’s sense of place can strongly influence airport image and destination image. The result ascertains that the airport can be a representative of a destination through the creation of a sense of place.
Service blueprint 4.0: a service design for hotels beyond COVID-19
Authors: Pandey Ashutosh , Kulshrestha Ruchika
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This study examines changes in customer service encounter patterns in response to the COVID-19 pandemic during stays at hotels. The study re-visits the hotel services delivery process and examines how the hotel service blueprint has been re-framed.

Design/methodology/approach

The study implemented an exploratory and qualitative research design to identify changes in customer service encounters and the hotel service delivery process. The research applied a cross-sectional survey-based design, which involved open-ended and closed interview questions with hoteliers in the Delhi/NCR region.

Findings

The study identified an increase in contactless service during the service delivery process and in customer service encounters while staying at hotels. In so doing, the various service touchpoints in hotels need to transition from personalized service to contactless service encounters such as at check-in and payment, contactless room key access with available and accessible hand sanitizers, masks, room purifiers, automated room cleaning machines and the deployment of other smart artificial intelligence-based technologies.

Practical implications

This paper profiles a revised service blueprint model for hotels, which could assist hotel service managers to address potential sources of customer dissatisfaction and service failure during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Originality/value

The paper explores ongoing changes in the hotel service delivery process during the COVID-19 situation and reveals ways in which the service blueprint has been re-framed.
Millennial travel vlogs: emergence of a new form of virtual tourism in the post-pandemic era?
Authors: Chakravarty Urjani , Chand Gulab , Singh Udaya Narayana
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to present the authors’ perspectives on the new narrative styles adopted by international millennial travel vloggers during the COVID-19 pandemic. They aim to promote virtual tourism, and the authors present six examples of millennial vloggers. Considering tighter government regulations relating to travel, vloggers have developed novel ways of content creation through “travel writing.”

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used narrative analysis to review their sample of vlogs and how specific changes in each vlogging stage are motivated by viewer expectancy.

Findings

Millennial vlogger couples are using the YouTube platform to meet the demand for virtual tourism.

Research limitations/implications

This study provides new ways of looking at travel vlogging as an occupation and means of entertainment. However, the current dynamic situation may well lead to further challenges for this kind of research.

Practical implications

The implications relate to the provision of a better understanding of the scope for virtual tourism and how it can lead to new avenues for tourism development.

Originality/value

The authors reviewed millennial vloggers during the COVID-19 pandemic and applied narratology to the vlogs to better analyse the changes caused by the pandemic.
Proximity to natural habitat and flower plantings increases insect populations and pollination services in South African apple orchards
Authors: Ratto Fabrizia , Steward Peter , Sait Steven M. , Pryke James Stephen , Gaigher Rene , Samways Michael J. , Kunin William
Published: July 2021

Abstract

Introducing areas of wildflower vegetation within crop fields has been shown to enhance pollinator activity and pollination services to crops, and findings in Europe showed an interaction effect between floral treatments and landscape context. Natural fynbos patches in the South African Cape Floristic Region (CFR) are potential reservoirs for beneficial insects that could enhance pollinator populations and crop pollination in commercial apple orchards. However, the effect of proximity to natural habitat and floral enhancement treatments on crop pollinators and yield are yet to be fully tested in southern temperate regions.

To elucidate the impact of enhanced floral resources to apple flower visitors and crop yield, we established small experimental patches of flowers in non‐productive areas of commercial apple Malus domestica orchards in the CFR. Experimental orchards were embedded in landscapes with varying proportions of natural habitat within 1 km. We used pollinator exclusion experiments to determine the benefits of insect pollination on apple yield, quality and economic value.

We found that the primary pollinator of apple flowers in the region is the endemic Cape honey bee, Apis mellifera capensis. Floral plantings enhanced overall pollinator abundance and honey bee flower visitation within the orchards, and positively affected apple size and economic value. Increased landscape complexity had a significantly positive effect on wild bees but not on honey bees.

Synthesis and applications. We demonstrate that presence of floral plantings within orchards enhances pollinator activity within apple orchards and apple quality. This sustainable management practice may represent a profitable choice for growers, which could increase pollination services while reducing reliance on renting hives. These practices can indirectly contribute to increased landscape‐scale resilience and connectivity while also benefiting pollinators within the remaining natural habitat.
The biological and chemical contents of atmospheric particulate matter and implication of its role in the transmission of bacterial pathogenesis
Authors: Zhang Xianghe , Li Ziyun , Hu Jiamin , Yan Lei , He Yanyan , Li Xiang , Wang Mingyu , Sun Xiaomin , Xu Hai
Published: July 2021

Atmospheric particulate matter (APM) is an environmental hazard that endangers human health and causes a variety of diseases. In this work, the microbial community composition, chemical element composition and antimicrobial resistance gene (ARG) prevalence, along with their relationships with environmental parameters were analysed using APM samples collected in Jinan, China. Pathogenic Klebsiella and Aeromonas were found to be significantly correlated with PM2.5 and temperature, suggesting their proliferation on APM. PM2.5 and PM10 have similar microbial community compositions but different chemical element compositions, suggesting they have different origins, which have little impact on microbial community structures. This finding, together with analysis of the timing of microbial community structure changes, suggests that microbial community composition is impacted by anthropic activities. Further investigations showed that rare metals including lanthanides are significantly negatively correlated with pathogens in APM, suggesting their inhibitory role. ARGs were observed for every class of antibiotic except for carbapenems in APM, suggesting high ARG prevalence in APM, and APM functions in transmission of antimicrobial resistance. Results obtained in this study suggest that APM can act as a transmission vehicle for pathogenic bacteria and ARGs and lead to the implication of a new transmission route for bacterial pathogenesis by APM.
The microbial terroir: open questions on the Nagoya protocol applied to microbial resources
Authors: Pascual Javier , Tanner Kristie , Vilanova Cristina , Porcar Manuel , Delgado Ana
Published: July 2021

The Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit‐sharing (https://www.cbd.int/abs/), primarily designed for vascular plant and animal resources, is also extended to the use of microbial resources, but its application to the microbiological realm has raised many doubts and provoked criticisms. This is because of the particularities of microbial ecology and the technical and legal difficulties encompassed in its application.
Depolymerization of biorefinery lignin by improved laccases of the white‐rot fungus Obba rivulosa
Authors: Wallenius Janne , Kontro Jussi , Lyra Christina , Kuuskeri Jaana , Wan Xing , Kähkönen Mika A. , Baig Irshad , Kamer Paul C. J. , Sipilä Jussi , Mäkelä Miia R. , Nousiainen Paula , Hildén Kristiina
Published: July 2021

Fungal laccases are attracting enzymes for sustainable valorization of biorefinery lignins. To improve the lignin oxidation capacity of two previously characterized laccase isoenzymes from the white‐rot fungus Obba rivulosa, we mutated their substrate‐binding site at T1. As a result, the pH optimum of the recombinantly produced laccase variant rOrLcc2‐D206N shifted by three units towards neutral pH. O. rivulosa laccase variants with redox mediators oxidized both the dimeric lignin model compound and biorefinery poplar lignin. Significant structural changes, such as selective benzylic α‐oxidation, were detected by nuclear magnetic resonance analysis, although no polymerization of lignin was observed by gel permeation chromatography. This suggests that especially rOrLcc2‐D206N is a promising candidate for lignin‐related applications.
Assessing Long‐Term Changes in Regional Groundwater Recharge Using a Water Balance Model for New Mexico
Authors: Li Xiaojie , Fernald Alexander G. , Kang Shaozhong
Published: July 2021

In New Mexico in the arid southwestern United States, groundwater recharge is crucial to sustain groundwater (GW), which is vitally important to life, agriculture, industry, and ecosystems. To better understand the changes in recharge statewide, we explored the changes in groundwater recharge (RE), precipitation (P), surface water inflow (SWin), outflow (SWout), diversions (SWdiv), returns (SWret), and surface water and GW evapotranspiration (SWE and GWET) in five New Mexico counties: Taos, Torrance, Doña Ana, Eddy, and Lea during 1975–2015. The results show that the change‐point of RE was in the 1990s, leading to contrasting tendencies in RE before and after the change‐point with a decreasing rate during the latter one. There was a significant positive relationship between RE and P for Taos. The highest contribution rate (CR) to RE was SWout for Taos, whereas GWET ranked as the top CR for the other counties. Furthermore, the annual CR of GWET to RE increased significantly in all counties except Lea. The above results reveal that P and surface water flows played the dominant role in impacting RE in northern New Mexico where surface water is the primary local water resources, whereas GWET had the highest and increasingly continuous influence in central and southern New Mexico where the surface water is much less than that in northern New Mexico. This study shows that water budgets are important to identify differences in regional hydrological regimes that affect planning to maintain RE to groundwater.
Visualization Workflow for Quantifying Parameter Sensitivities and Uncertainties for Hydrologic Models
Authors: Finkenbiner Catherine , Semmendinger Kyla
Published: July 2021

From regional to continental scales, hydrologic processes are represented by modular modeling frameworks dependent on input datasets and parameter sets representing physical attributes. The hydrologic community needs a common procedure to evaluate model output based on parameter sensitivities and uncertainties compared to performance metrics (i.e., objective functions), especially for large parameter sets. We developed a reproducible workflow for evaluating hydrologic models to objectively analyze model outputs as a function of parameter choice using numerical and visualization techniques. Our workflow was implemented on three separate case studies, each with a different hydrologic model, and the results can be reproduced and visualized from a community github code repository. Model parameter sensitivity was evaluated using several global sensitivity indices and Bayesian theory. Uncertainty in parameter spaces was quantified to highlight the impact of unreliable input data on model output. Model parameter sensitivities and uncertainties were evaluated numerically and visually to provide a comprehensive perspective on their impacts on model output. For each case study, we provided a summary and interpretation of the workflow results. Our workflow can be integrated into hydrologic modeling frameworks for objective modular model and parameter set evaluations based on a data‐driven approach appropriate for model selection.
Testing genome skimming for species discrimination in the large and taxonomically difficult genus Rhododendron
Authors: Fu Chao‐Nan , Mo Zhi‐Qiong , Yang Jun‐Bo , Cai Jie , Ye Lin‐Jiang , Zou Jia‐Yun , Qin Han‐Tao , Zheng Wei , Hollingsworth Peter M. , Li De‐Zhu , Gao Lian‐Ming
Published: July 2021

Standard plant DNA barcodes based on 2–3 plastid regions, and nrDNA ITS show variable levels of resolution, and fail to discriminate among species in many plant groups. Genome skimming to recover complete plastid genome sequences and nrDNA arrays has been proposed as a solution to address these resolution limitations. However, few studies have empirically tested what gains are achieved in practice. Of particular interest is whether adding substantially more plastid and nrDNA characters will lead to an increase in discriminatory power, or whether the resolution limitations of standard plant barcodes are fundamentally due to plastid genomes and nrDNA not tracking species boundaries. To address this, we used genome skimming to recover near‐complete plastid genomes and nuclear ribosomal DNA from Rhododendron species and compared discrimination success with standard plant barcodes. We sampled 218 individuals representing 145 species of this species‐rich and taxonomically difficult genus, focusing on the global biodiversity hotspots of the Himalaya‐Hengduan Mountains. Only 33% of species were distinguished using ITS+matK+rbcL+trnH‐psbA. In contrast, 55% of species were distinguished using plastid genome and nrDNA sequences. The vast majority of this increase is due to the additional plastid characters. Thus, despite previous studies showing an asymptote in discrimination success beyond 3–4 plastid regions, these results show that a demonstrable increase in discriminatory power is possible with extensive plastid genome data. However, despite these gains, many species remain unresolved, and these results also reinforce the need to access multiple unlinked nuclear loci to obtain transformative gains in species discrimination in plants.
Terrorism and Corporate Tax Avoidance
Authors: Xu Haoran , Moser William J.
Published: July 2021

We examine the impact of terrorism risk on corporate tax avoidance. We find that firms headquartered in areas with a higher terrorism risk engage in more corporate tax avoidance. Further, we show that terrorism risk has a greater impact on corporate tax avoidance when terrorist attacks are severe in terms of the targets hit, damage, and the numbers of victims. Tests on channels show that higher terrorism risk is associated with firms suffering greater financial constraints. We provide evidence that increased terrorism risk is also associated with the reallocation of US Internal Revenue Service budgeted expenditures away from tax return audit enforcement and towards increased funding for the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigative Division combating terrorism. We conclude that terrorism risk increases and facilitates the corporate demand for tax savings.
Global emergency medicine: A scoping review of the literature from 2020
Authors: Trehan Indi , Kivlehan Sean M. , Balhara Kamna S. , Bonney Joseph , Hexom Braden J. , Pousson Amelia Y. , Quao Nana S. A. , Rybarczyk Megan M. , Selvam Anand , Nicholson Benjamin D. , Bhaskar Nidhi , Becker Torben K. ,   theGlobal Emergency Medicine Literature Review (GEMLR) Group
Published: July 2021

Objective

The objective was to identify, screen, highlight, review, and summarize some of the most rigorously conducted and impactful original research (OR) and review articles (RE) in global emergency medicine (EM) published in 2020 in the peer‐reviewed and gray literature.

Methods

A broad systematic search of peer‐reviewed publications related to global EM indexed on PubMed and in the gray literature was conducted. The titles and abstracts of the articles on this list were screened by members of the Global Emergency Medicine Literature Review (GEMLR) Group to identify those that met our criteria of OR or RE in the domains of disaster and humanitarian response (DHR), emergency care in resource‐limited settings (ECRLS), and EM development. Those articles that met these screening criteria were then scored using one of three scoring templates appropriate to the article type. Those articles that scored in the top 5% then underwent in‐depth narrative summarization.

Results

The 2020 GEMLR search initially identified 35,970 articles, more than 50% more than last year’s search. From these, 364 were scored based on their full text. Nearly three‐fourths of the scored articles constituted OR, of which nearly three‐fourths employed quantitative research methods. Nearly 10% of the articles identified this year were directly related to COVID‐19. Research involving ECRLS again constituted most of the articles in this year’s review, accounting for more than 60% of the literature scored. A total of 20 articles underwent in‐depth narrative critiques.

Conclusions

The number of studies relevant to global EM identified by our search was very similar to that of last year. Revisions to our methodology to identify a broader range of research were successful in identifying more qualitative research and studies related to DHR. The number of COVID‐19–related articles is likely to continue to increase in subsequent years.
Introducing SentiMag in a rural setting: a 5‐year experience
Authors: Sreedhar Sharmaine , Maloney Jay , Hudson Steven
Published: July 2021

Background

The Sentimag device is a probe that contains a sensitive magnetometer which detects either an implantable magnetic marker (MagSeed) or an infectable superparamagnetic ironoxide nanoparticle tracer (MagTrace). MagSeed is used to localise impalpable breast lesions; MagTrace is used to identify sentinel lymph nodes. In Australasia, Sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy, using radioactive colloid injection, is a mainstay of prognostication in breast surgery in patients with a clinically negative axilla. In addition, radioactive seeds or hookwires have been used to detect impalpable breast lesions. Gisborne Hospital has been using the SentiMag device since June 2016 to both identify sentinel lymph nodes (Magtrace) and impalpable tumours (Magseed). This study gives perspective over more than 5 years on how this new technology can benefit patients and clinicians in the rural setting.

Methods

Patient data had been collected by the operative surgeon prospectively and corroborated with the coding department. Consecutive cases performed by a single surgeon were included in this study. Inclusion criteria were: (1) any patient who needed localisation of an impalpable breast lesion; (2) any patient who needed a sentinel lymph node biopsy; (3) cases were collected from January 2013 with the large majority of cases were collected between January 2015 and Jan 2020. Comparisons were made between patients with different localisation methods. Basic demographics were collected at the time of the surgery and outcomes then recorded. Staging, lymph node status, lymph node detection rates and complications were collected. Mode of tumour and sentinel node location was recorded. Financial data was collected from administrative staff via receipts and invoices of purchases to the hospital.

Results

Of the 125 patients included in this study: 23 underwent magnetic seed insertion; 15 underwent a hookwire insertion; 45 cases used MagTrace injection; 71 cases used radioactive colloid injection. There was a significantly higher detection rate of two or more sentinel nodes in the SentiMag group. (91% vs. 71.8%, p = 0.01). Neither complication rates, nor cancer detection rates were significantly different. Eighty‐four (67.2%) cases did not require tumour location.

Conclusion

SentiMag is safe to use in a rural setting. Using the SentiMag system can simplify care for patients and surgeons and was shown to be cost effective in our hospital.
Indigenous Youth and Decolonial Futures: Energy and Environmentalism among the Diné in the Navajo Nation and the Lepchas of Sikkim, India
Authors: Gergan Mabel Denzin , Curley Andrew
Published: July 2021

In India and the United States, Lepcha and Diné youth are articulating decolonial futures that diverge from past aspirations. Rather than demanding big infrastructure such as dams or power plants, Indigenous youth forward decolonial visions that reimagine the landscape and energy technologies. In this article, we suggest that Lepcha and Diné activists are articulating a youthful decolonial futurity—a vision for the future where their generation and the ones to follow can flourish in their own territories and on their own terms. We propose youthful decolonial futurity as a prefigurative politics specific to Indigenous youth, who view their activism as integral to creating a future where their communities have more control over decision‐making processes and their ancestral territories. What emerges is a consideration of the role of Indigenous youth in building a language and politics of decolonisation against the roles of power brokers, elites, and naysayers.
Strabismus, stereoacuity, accommodation and convergence in young adults born premature and screened for retinopathy of prematurity
Authors: Pétursdóttir Dýrleif , Holmström Gerd , Larsson Eva
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The aim of the study was to evaluate strabismus, stereoacuity, accommodation and convergence in prematurely born young adults; screened for retinopathy of prematurity in the neonatal period and compare with term‐born individuals of the same age.

Materials and methods

The study participants included 59 prematurely born individuals with a birthweight of ≤1,500 grams and 44 term‐born controls, all born during 1988–1990 in Stockholm County, Sweden. Ocular alignment was assessed with a cover test, stereoacuity with the TNO stereo test and the amplitude of accommodation and the near point of convergence with the Royal Air Force Rule.

Results

Seven of 59 (12%) preterms had manifest strabismus, 4/59 (7%) had esotropia and 3/59 (5%) exotropia. One of 44 (2%) controls had esotropia; no other controls had manifest strabismus. Stereoacuity was within normal limits in 38/59 (64%) preterms and 43/44 (98%) controls, p < 0.01; the difference remained after excluding those with strabismus. A neurological complication at 2.5 years of age was the strongest risk factor for subnormal stereoacuity within the preterm group after excluding those with strabismus. The mean amplitude of accommodation was poorer in the preterms than the controls in better (p < 0.05) and worse eyes (p < 0.05). The preterms were more likely to have an amplitude of accommodation below the minimum, according to Hofstetter’s equation. There were no differences between the groups regarding the near point of convergence.

Conclusion

Prematurely born young adults had a higher prevalence of strabismus, reduced stereoacuity and worse amplitude of accommodation than term‐born controls.
Global and Swedish review of rotavirus vaccines showed considerable reductions in morbidity and mortality
Authors: Schollin Ask Lina
Published: July 2021

Rotavirus infections cause severe gastroenteritis in small children, with both high morbidity and mortality. The rotavirus vaccine has been recommended by the World Health Organization since 2009 and was being used by 108 countries by 2019. It joined Sweden's national immunisation programme that year, after 5 years of selective regional use. This review summarises the baseline facts and evidence, the most common vaccines and the global direct and indirect effects, with a special focus on Sweden.

Conclusion

The vaccine has had a considerable impact on global and Swedish morbidity and mortality, but some indirect effects and socioeconomic differentials need research.
The recanalization after thrombolysis as surrogate for clinical outcomes in patients with ST‐segment elevation acute myocardial infarction: A systematic review and meta‐regression analysis of data from randomized controlled trials
Authors: Zhu Yidan , Chen Siyu , Zhao Xingshan , Qiao Shubin , Yang Qin , Gao Runlin , Wu Yangfeng
Published: July 2021

Aims

Thrombolytic therapy has been known to be effective in reducing clinical outcomes and increasing recanalization rate among patients with ST‐segment elevation acute myocardial infarction (STEMI). However, whether post‐thrombolysis recanalization could be used as a surrogate for clinical outcomes is unknown.

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library database to identify randomized controlled trials (RCT) that examined effects of thrombolytic agents in STEMI. Recanalization was defined as TIMI grade 2 or 3 flow. The primary outcome was in‐hospital all‐cause mortality. Secondary outcomes included in‐hospital and 30‐day recurrent myocardial infarction (re‐MI), composite of death and re‐MI, major bleeding and all bleeding. Random‐effects meta‐regression was used for analysis.

Results

We identified 111 eligible study arms and 52 eligible comparisons from 58 RCTs involving 16 536 patients. Our analyses showed that among study arms recanalization rate was significantly inversely associated with the incidence of in‐hospital all‐cause mortality (β: −0.07, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.13 to −0.02), re‐MI (β: −0.09, 95%CI: −0.18 to −0.01) and the composite of death and re‐MI (β: −0.17, 95%CI: −0.28 to −0.05), and positively associated with in‐hospital all bleeding but not with major bleeding. Among paired comparisons, the difference in recanalization rate was associated with the corresponding difference in incidence of in‐hospital all‐cause mortality (β: −0.15, 95%CI: −0.28 to −0.01) but the relationship was not significant for any other outcome.

Conclusion

Pooled evidence from RCTs suggest the potential use of recanalization as a surrogate for clinical outcomes in evaluating the efficacy of thrombolysis among patients with STEMI.
In school and out of school digital use and the development of children’s self‐regulation and social skills
Authors: McNaughton Stuart , Zhu Tong , Rosedale Naomi , Jesson Rebecca , Oldehaver Jacinta , Williamson Rachel
Published: July 2021

More needs to be known about the benefits and risks to the development of interpersonal and intrapersonal skills in ubiquitous digital environments at school and at home. Nine to 12‐year‐old students (n = 186) in a 1:1 digital programme serving low SES and culturally diverse communities rated their self‐regulation and social skills for both non‐digital and digital contexts. Downward trends in self‐regulation and related personality dimensions were found. Social skills were more variable. Students had heightened awareness of needing to self‐regulate in digital contexts, rating their self‐regulation lower than in non‐digital contexts. High frequencies and durations of fun activities at home (e.g., posting photos or blogs, chatting, and games) were associated with lower ratings. But fun activities were associated with higher ratings of social skills in digital contexts. High levels of parental monitoring were related to higher ratings of self‐regulation. These patterns reflect school‐wide norms and practices (students are socialized as digital citizens) as well as more general features of socialization at home. We conclude that self‐regulation and social skills are sensitive to contexts over the primary school years. Digital tools may be particularly ‘impulsogenic’, and students need context‐specific self‐regulatory strategies, but the tools create opportunities to develop valued social skills under specific conditions.
IGF2BP2 promotes the progression of colorectal cancer through a YAP‐dependent mechanism
Authors: Cui Jie , Tian Jiale , Wang Weiwei , He Tao , Li Xin , Gu Chenzheng , Wang Lixin , Wu Jian , Shang Anquan
Published: July 2021

To explore the effect of insulin‐like growth factor 2 mRNA‐binding protein 2 (IGF2BP2) on colorectal cancer (CRC) by recognizing the m6A modification of YAP mRNA thus activating ErbB2 expression. High expressions of IGF2BP2, YAP, and ErbB2 promoted the proliferation, migration and invasion of CRC cells and reduced their apoptosis. IGF2BP2 recognized the m6A on YAP mRNA and promoted the translation of mRNA. YAP regulated ErbB2 expression by promoting TEAD4 enrichment in ErbB2 promoter region. Therefore, IGF2BP2 promoted the expression of ErbB2 to enhance the proliferation, invasion and migration of CRC cells, to repress cell apoptosis, and to promote solid tumor formation in nude mice. IGF2BP2 activates the expression of ErbB2 by recognizing the m6A of YAP, thus affecting the cell cycle of CRC, inhibiting cell apoptosis, and promoting proliferation.
Highly sensitive fusion detection using plasma cell‐free RNA in non‐small‐cell lung cancers
Authors: Hasegawa Nobuhiko , Kohsaka Shinji , Kurokawa Kana , Shinno Yuki , Takeda Nakamura Ikuko , Ueno Toshihide , Kojima Shinya , Kawazu Masahito , Suehara Yoshiyuki , Ishijima Muneaki , Goto Yasushi , Kojima Yuki , Yonemori Kan , Hayashi Takuo , Saito Tsuyoshi , Shukuya Takehito , Takahashi Fumiyuki , Takahashi Kazuhisa , Mano Hiroyuki
Published: July 2021

ALK, ROS1, and RET kinase fusions are important predictive biomarkers of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Analysis of cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) provides a noninvasive method to identify gene changes in tumor cells. The present study sought to use cfRNA and cfDNA for identifying fusion genes. A reliable protocol was established to detect fusion genes using cfRNA and assessed the analytical validity and clinical usefulness in 30 samples from 20 cases of fusion‐positive NSCLC. The results of cfRNA‐based assays were compared with tissue biopsy and cfDNA‐based liquid biopsy (Guardant360 plasma next‐generation sequencing [NGS] assay). The overall sensitivity of the cfRNA‐based assay was 26.7% (8/30) and that of cfDNA‐based assay was 16.7% (3/18). When analysis was limited to the samples collected at chemo‐naïve or progressive disease status and available for both assays, the sensitivity of the cfRNA‐based assay was 77.8% (7/9) and that of cfDNA‐based assay was 33.3% (3/9). Fusion gene identification in cfRNA was correlated with treatment response. These results suggest that the proposed cfRNA assay is a useful diagnostic test for patients with insufficient tissues to facilitate effective administration of first‐line treatment and is a useful tool to monitor the progression of NSCLC for consideration of second‐line treatments.
Fluoridation cessation and children’s dental caries: A 7‐year follow‐up evaluation of Grade 2 schoolchildren in Calgary and Edmonton, Canada
Authors: McLaren Lindsay , Patterson Steven K. , Faris Peter , Chen Guanmin , Thawer Salima , Figueiredo Rafael , Weijs Cynthia , McNeil Deborah , Waye Arianna , Potestio Melissa
Published: July 2021

Objectives

We examined the effect of fluoridation cessation on children's dental caries experience in the Canadian cities of Calgary (cessation in 2011) and Edmonton (still fluoridated).

Methods

We used a pre‐post cross‐sectional design with comparison group. We studied Grade 2 schoolchildren (approximately 7 years old) 7‐8 years after fluoridation cessation in Calgary, thus capturing children born after cessation occurred. Data collection included a dental examination conducted in school by calibrated dental hygienists, a questionnaire completed by parents, and fingernail clippings for a small subsample. Our overall analytic approach was twofold. We first examined differences in dental caries experience (deft and DMFT, and smooth surface caries based on defs and DMFS) between Calgary and Edmonton and over time (comparing 2018/2019 data to pre‐cessation and early post‐cessation surveys in our setting). Second, we evaluated whether differences were likely to reflect fluoridation cessation in Calgary, rather than other factors.

Results

The prevalence of caries in the primary dentition was significantly higher (P < .05) in Calgary (fluoridation cessation) than in Edmonton (still fluoridated). For example, crude deft prevalence in 2018/2019 was 64.8% (95% CI 62.3‐67.3), n = 2649 in Calgary and 55.1% (95% CI 52.3‐57.8), n = 2600 in Edmonton. These differences were consistent and robust: they persisted with adjustment for potential confounders and in the subset of respondents who were lifelong residents and reported usually drinking tap water; they had widened over time since cessation; and they were corroborated by assessments of dental fluorosis and estimates of total fluoride intake from fingernail clippings. Findings for permanent teeth were less consistent, which likely reflects that 7‐year‐olds have not had the time to accumulate enough permanent dentition caries experience for differences to have become apparent.

Conclusions

Our findings are consistent with an adverse impact of fluoridation cessation on children's dental health in Calgary and point to the need for universal, publicly funded prevention activities—including but not limited to fluoridation.
Characterization of anaphylaxis reveals different metabolic changes depending on severity and triggers
Authors: Perales‐Chorda Carolina , Obeso David , Twomey Laura , Rojas‐Benedicto Ayelén , Puchades‐Carrasco Leonor , Roca Marta , Pineda‐Lucena Antonio , Laguna José Julio , Barbas Coral , Esteban Vanesa , Martí‐Garrido Jaume , Ibañez‐Echevarria Ethel , López‐Salgueiro Ramón , Barber Domingo , Villaseñor Alma , Hernández Fernández de Rojas Dolores
Published: July 2021

Background

Despite the increasing incidence of anaphylaxis, its underlying molecular mechanisms and biomarkers for appropriate diagnosis remain undetermined. The rapid onset and potentially fatal outcome in the absence of managed treatment prevent its study. Up today, there are still no known biomarkers that allow an unequivocal diagnosis. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore metabolic changes in patients suffering anaphylactic reactions depending on the trigger (food and/or drug) and severity (moderate and severe) in a real‐life set‐up.

Methods

Eighteen episodes of anaphylaxis, one per patient, were analysed. Sera were collected during the acute phase (T1), the recovery phase (T2) and around 2–3 months after the anaphylactic reaction (T0: basal state). Reactions were classified following an exhaustive allergological evaluation for severity and trigger. Sera samples were analysed using untargeted metabolomics combining liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (LC‐MS) and proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H‐NMR).

Results

‘Food T1 vs T2’ and ‘moderate T1 vs T2’ anaphylaxis comparisons showed clear metabolic patterns during the onset of an anaphylactic reaction, which differed from those induced by drugs, food + drug or severe anaphylaxis. Moreover, the model of food anaphylaxis was able to distinguish the well‐characterized IgE (antibiotics) from non‐IgE‐mediated anaphylaxis (nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs), suggesting a differential metabolic pathway associated with the mechanism of action. Metabolic differences between ‘moderate vs severe’ at the acute phase T1 and at basal state T0 were studied. Among the altered metabolites, glucose, lipids, cortisol, betaine and oleamide were observed altered.

Conclusions

The results of this exploratory study provide the first evidence that different anaphylactic triggers or severity induce differential metabolic changes along time or at specific time‐point, respectively. Besides, the basal status T0 might identify high‐risk patients, thus opening new ways to understand, diagnose and treat anaphylaxis.
Corneal supply and the use of technology to reduce its demand: A review
Authors: Baird Paul N. , Machin Heather , Brown Karl D
Published: July 2021

Recovery and access to end‐of‐life corneal tissue for corneal transplantation, training and research is globally maldistributed. The reasons for the maldistribution are complex and multifaceted, and not well defined or understood. Currently there are few solutions available to effectively address these issues. This review provides an overview of the system, key issues impacting recovery and allocation and emphasises how end‐user ophthalmologists and researchers, with support from administrators and the wider sector, can assist in increasing access long‐term through sustaining eye banks nationally and globally. We posit that prevention measures and improved surgical techniques, together with the development of novel therapies will play a significant role in reducing demand and enhance the equitable allocation of corneas.
Resonance frequency analysis with two different devices after conventional implant placement with ridge preservation: A prospective pilot cohort study
Authors: Brouwers Joost E. I. G. , Buis Sharon , de Groot Philip G. , de Laat Bas , Remijn Jasper A.
Published: July 2021

Background

Primary and secondary implant stability is of high importance for survival and success of dental implants in the short and long term. Measurements of implant stability during healing provide the opportunity to monitor the course of the osseointegration process.

Purpose

To compare implant stability quotient (ISQ) by resonance frequency analysis (RFA), recorded with two different devices after implant placement.

Materials and methods

Patients with the need of single tooth extraction in posterior sites of the maxilla and the mandible were treated in a surgical center. All patients received additional augmentation with a bovine bone substitute and platelet‐rich fibrin (PRF) after atraumatic tooth extraction. After a healing period of 10 weeks, 28 self‐tapping titanium‐implants were placed. Implant stability was recorded with two different devices (Osstell and Penguin) at the time of implant insertion (T0), 10 days later (T1), and after 7 (T2), or 17 weeks (T3).

Results

No implant was lost, and no postoperative complication occurred during follow‐up. Patient cohort comprised 9 female (32.1%) and 19 male patients (67.9%), with a mean age of 52.8 years, 64.3 years, respectively. Mean overall insertion torque was 43.6 Ncm at implant placement with no significant difference between implant location, age, or gender. No patient dropped out. During observation period, a significant increase in mean ISQ was recorded with both devices. Significant positive correlations between insertion torque and ISQ were recorded with both devices at T0, T2, and T3. No significant differences were observed in ISQ‐values between both devices, and measuring directions at any point of measurement.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this cohort study, both devices were suitable for RFA‐measurement and revealed comparable results. Due to the cordless design, handling of the Penquin device was more comfortable. Reusability of the Penguin MultiPeg‐transducers may offer an additional benefit with regard on ecological aspects.