bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence-based cataract surgery teaching milestones: guide to evaluate resident achievement
Authors: Milovanova Ekaterina , Rudnisky Christopher J.
Published: December 2021

Purpose:

To develop evidence-based milestones for cataract surgery teaching and identify performance indicators.

Setting:

Royal Alexandra Hospital, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods:

Operative records from a single surgeon were reviewed for resident participation when learning cataract surgery over a 14-year period. Time to complete a resident's first complete case was the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes included mean time to perform each categorical step of the procedure, number of cases participated in, rate of participation, complex case involvement, and complications. Strong resident performance was defined as time to first complete a case 1 SD quicker than mean performance; weak performance was the opposite.

Results:

Residents (n = 13) performed beginner steps for 3.1 ± 3.2 months and intermediate steps until month 4.3 ± 3.3, and by month, 5.1 ± 3.4 residents were able to do complete cases. Time to perform a complete case increased with lower case participation (P = .02); mean proportion of complex cases that a resident participated in was 7.9% (n = 17.6 ± 10.0); less than 1% of resident cases resulted in posterior capsular rupture (PCR; n = 1.4 ± 1.3 cases). Based on these data, weaker achievement was defined as failure to achieve beginner-step competency by month 6.3, intermediate step competency by month 7.6, or inability to perform a complete case by month 8.5. In this dataset, 23.1% of residents (n = 3) met this definition.

Conclusions:

Residents who train with multiple teachers during a focused cataract surgery rotation can perform complete cases after a mean of 5.1 ± 3.4 months with a low PCR rate.
“Worse Than Disappointing”: Prediagnostic Health Care Challenges of Women With Inflammatory Vulvar Dermatoses
Authors: Rivera Sydney , Dykstra Chandler , Flood Anna , Herbenick Debby , DeMaria Andrea L.
Published: December 2021

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate challenges women face before inflammatory vulvar dermatosis diagnosis to guide interventions for improving time to diagnosis and health care experiences.

Materials and Methods

The present analysis was part of a larger study exploring sexual health and quality of life of women with vulvar and nonvulvar inflammatory dermatoses, evaluated via a 20-minute web-based survey. One open-response item asked participants to “briefly describe any challenges you faced with regards to health care or health care providers in the time when you were seeking a diagnosis”; this item informed the present study. Eligible participants were women older than 18 years, living in the United States, with diagnosis of an inflammatory vulvar dermatosis persisting at least 1 month. Participants (n = 118) had a mean age of 46.55 ± 15.35 years, and 64% (n = 75) had lichen sclerosus.

Results

Provider-based challenges consisted of insensitive communication and ascribing physical symptoms to mental health issues, self-harm, or other factors. System-based challenges included confusing referral networks, limited specialist access, and widespread lack of provider education. Personal challenges for participants seeking care included feelings of embarrassment and reduced health care efficacy. Challenges led to emotional response and impact for participants, characterized by negative (e.g., distrust in the medical system) or positive (e.g., self-advocacy efforts, strong social media communities) outcomes.

Conclusions

Findings provide unique insights into the challenges women experience before inflammatory vulvar dermatosis diagnosis. This study creates new knowledge exploring the diagnostic journey accompanying inflammatory vulvar dermatoses and contributes practically to clinical and research needs of this understudied population.
The Vaginal Microbiome: V. Therapeutic Modalities of Vaginal Microbiome Engineering and Research Challenges
Authors: Vieira-Baptista Pedro , De Seta Francesco , Verstraelen Hans , Ventolini Gary , Lonnee-Hoffmann Risa , Lev-Sagie Ahinoam
Published: December 2021

Objective

This series of articles, titled The Vaginal Microbiome (VMB), written on behalf of the International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease, aims to summarize the recent findings and understanding of the vaginal bacterial microbiota, mainly regarding areas relevant to clinicians specializing in vulvovaginal disorders.

Materials and Methods

A search of PubMed database was performed, using the search terms “vaginal microbiome” with “treatment,” “diagnosis,” and “research.” Full article texts were reviewed. Reference lists were screened for additional articles.

Results

The currently available approaches for treating vaginitis or attempting to modulate the VMB are often insufficient. It has traditionally relied on the use of antibiotics, antiseptics, and antifungals. The fifth and last article of this series discusses the new and/or alternative therapeutic modalities. It addresses the role of probiotics, prebiotics and symbiotics, activated charcoal, biofilm disrupting agents, acidifying agents, phage therapy, and the concept of vaginal microbiome transplant. The challenges facing the research of VMB, including the clinical impact of microbiome manipulation, classification, and new diagnostic approaches are discussed.

Conclusions

Microbiome research has grown dramatically in recent years, motivated by innovations in technology and decrease in analysis costs. This research has yielded huge insight into the nature of microbial communities, their interactions, and effects with their hosts and other microbes. Further understanding of the bacterial, fungal, phage, and viral microbiomes in combination with host genetics, immunologic status, and environmental factors is needed to better understand and provide personalized medical diagnostics and interventions to improve women's health.
Case Report: Recurrent Transient Monocular Vision Loss Secondary to Protein C Deficiency
Authors: Zeng Tina , Malloy Kelly A.
Published: December 2021

SIGNIFICANCE

Protein C deficiency is a thrombophilic condition that increases the risk of venous and arterial thrombi, the latter of which can cause transient monocular vision loss. In cases of recurrent transient monocular vision loss, in which the typical stroke workup has been unrevealing, investigation for hypercoagulable states is warranted.

PURPOSE

This study reports a case of transient monocular vision loss secondary to protein C deficiency in a patient with no known personal or family history of venous thromboembolism and highlights the eye care provider's role in helping with diagnosis of this condition.

CASE REPORT

A 59-year-old woman presented with recurrent transient monocular vision loss of the right eye. Her history was remarkable for suffering an ischemic stroke with hemorrhagic conversion shortly after experiencing episodes of transient monocular vision loss. These episodes initially waned but recurred 3 months later. Extensive workup at the time of recurrence of her visual symptoms was unrevealing. Given the timing of her visual symptoms and history of stroke, her presentation was suggestive of transient ischemic attacks. Her previous extensive workup and chronicity of symptoms did not necessitate emergent evaluation. However, additional workup for hypercoagulable conditions was initiated. The testing revealed protein C deficiency, which prompted initiation of oral anticoagulants for stroke prophylaxis.

CONCLUSIONS

Transient monocular vision loss is a symptom commonly encountered by eye care providers, which necessitates emergent evaluation to reduce stroke risk if the symptom appears vascular in origin. Testing for hypercoagulable conditions is indicated in patients demonstrating recurrent transient monocular vision loss, even if there is no known personal or family history of venous thromboembolism. Eye care providers need to be aware of this association between hypercoagulable conditions and transient vision loss to aid in prompt diagnosis and treatment with the goal of preventing stroke and permanent vision loss.
Malignant Sarcomatous Degeneration of Craniofacial Fibrous Dysplasia
Authors: Hussaini Adnan S. , Swanson Daniel D. , Nguy Peter L. , Pan Kristen S. , de Castro Luis F. , Boyce Alison M. , Collins Michael T. , DeKlotz Timothy R.
Published: December 2021

Background:

Fibrous dysplasia (FD) is an uncommon bone disease characterized by the replacement of normal bone architecture with abnormal fibro-osseous connective tissue. Here, we discuss 2 cases of craniofacial FD, with malignant sarcomatous degeneration - a rare and morbid complication of the disease.

Case History:

Two cases of craniofacial FD with malignant degeneration are presented. In the first, a 68-year-old male with a history of FD presented with acutely worsening left-sided facial pain and V2 and V3 hypoesthesia. Imaging findings suggested a large infratemporal fossa mass with biopsy demonstrating sarcomatous degeneration. Radical craniofacial resection achieved a gross total resection with likely microscopic disease. The patient was unable to tolerate adjuvant chemotherapy or radiation and succumbed to his disease 13 months following surgery.

In the second case, a 36-year-old male with McCune-Albright Syndrome and craniofacial FD presented with acutely worsening left-sided headaches and midface hypoesthesia. Imaging revealed a heterogenous and expansile lesion with erosive changes in the left nasal cavity and infratemporal fossa. Pathology was suggestive of low grade sarcomatous degeneration. Given the extensive involvement of the skull base, the tumor was deemed unresectable, and the patient soon died following initiation of chemotherapy.

Clinical Relevance:

Malignant sarcomatous transformation is a rare and challenging complication of craniofacial FD. Indolent onset, advanced spread at time of presentation, and close relationship with vital neurovascular structures are all hurdles for the treating clinician. The entity poses a diagnostic dilemma, as pathological analysis can be equivocal and may mimic nonmalignant processes, such as locally aggressive FD.
A Multicentric Prospective Study on Maxillofacial Trauma Due to Road Traffic Accidents: The World Oral and Maxillofacial Trauma Project
Authors: Romeo Irene , Roccia Fabio , Aladelusi Timothy , Rae Euan , Laverick Sean , Ganasouli Dimitra , Zanakis Stelios N. , de Oliveira Gorla Luis Fernando , Pereira-Filho Valfrido Antonio , Gallafassi Daniel , Faverani Leonardo Perez , Alalawy Haider , Kamel Mohammed , Samieirad Sahand , Jaisani Mehul Raiesh , Rahman Sajjad Abdur , Rahman Tabishur , Goetzinger Maximilian , Bottini Gian Battista , Carlaw Kirsten , Aquilina Peter , Duran-Valles Francesc , Bescos Coro , Hassanein Ahmed Gaber
Published: December 2021

The purpose of this prospective multicenter study was to analyze the epidemiology, patterns, and management of maxillofacial fractures due to road traffic accidents (RTAs) worldwide.

Between Monday September 30, 2019 and Sunday October 4, 2020,1066 patients with RTAs related fractures were admitted to 14 maxillofacial surgery departments. The following data were analyzed: age, gender, mechanism of injury, alcohol or drug abuse at the time of trauma, maxillofacial fracture site, facial injury severity scale (FISS) score, associated injuries, day and month of trauma, time of treatment, type of treatment and length of hospital stay. Data were analyzed using bivaried and multivaried statistical analysis.

Eight hundred seventy patients were male, and 196 were female. The most common mechanism of injury was motorcycle accidents (48%). More than half of the patients had fractures of the middle third of the maxillofacial skeleton. In total, 59% of the study sample underwent open reduction internal fixation. The median facial injury severity scale (3 points) and the medial hospital stay (3 days) were significantly lower in patients with seatbelts and helmet (P 
< 0.001).

This first prospective, multicenter epidemiological study shows that motorcycle accidents are the leading cause of RTAs related fractures, mostly in young males. Particularly in Australia and Europe, the incidence of RTAs was significantly lower. Moreover, this study found that the severity of maxillofacial lesions was significantly higher in patients without safety devices, with consequent longer hospital stay demonstrating the efficacy of road safety policies in preventing maxillofacial injury.
Effect of Maxillary Skeletal Expansion on Airflow Dynamics of the Upper Airway
Authors: Liu Zhenggang , Zhang Nan , Chen Shuai , Lei Li
Published: December 2021

Maxillary skeletal expansion (MSE) provides a new nonsurgical method for the treatment of patients with insufficient maxillary arch expansion width. In this study the aerodynamic changes of the upper airway after MSE in adult patients were explored based on three-dimensional reconstruction technology of cone-beam computed tomographic data and the numerical simulation technology of computational fluid dynamics. An upper airway experimental model was then created based on three-dimensional printing technology and tested in vitro to verify the reliability of the numerical simulation method. The comparison between numerical simulation and experimental results shows that the 2 results are in good agreement. The results of numerical simulation showed that the cross-sectional area of the upper airway was increased after MSE, the pressure and velocity of the upper airway were reduced, and airway resistance was also reduced during exhalation and inhalation. This study shows that MSE can effectively improve the airway dynamics of patients.
The Long-Term Clinical Outcomes of Selectively Extracranial Radiofrequency Thermocoagulation for Trigeminal Neuralgia Guided by Three-Dimensionally Printed Personalized Template
Authors: Jiang Ziyan , Jiang Shengchao , Meng Qinggong , Cai Hengxing , Ke Jin
Published: December 2021

The purpose of this study was to assess the long-term pain relief and the complications of selectively extracranial radio-frequency thermocoagulation (RFT) for trigeminal neuralgia (TN) guided by a three-dimensionally (3D) printed personalized template. The authors conducted a retrospective study of 117 TN patients, who were treated with selectively extracranial RFT under 3D printed personalized template guidance between September 2014 and January 2019. The mean follow-up duration was 42.8 months (range: 28–83 months). Favorable pain relief of patients was 100% at discharge, 86.3% at 1 year, 80.3% at 2 years, 78.6% at 3 years, and 75.4% at 5 years. No complication associated with a puncture or intracranial complication was observed during or after RFT. Postoperative complications included facial numbness in 91 patients (77.8%), masticatory muscle weakness in 15 patients (12.8%), ear paresthesia in 3 patients (2.6%), limited mouth opening in 2 patients (1.7%), and taste hypesthesia in 2 patients (1.7%). Most of these symptoms were improved during the visits and their life was not severely affected. Selectively extracranial RFT guided by a 3D printed personalized template is a clinically practical, effective, and safe approach for TN patients.
Nevoid Basal Cell Carcinoma Syndrome: Clinical Features, Treatment, and Diagnostic Criteria
Authors: Zhang Ting , Chen Renji , Guo Siyuan
Published: December 2021

Nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that has an impact on the body’s organs, such as skin and skeletal. Clinical features, physical and pathological examinations, surgical treatment, and diagnostic criteria have been explicated by means of describing the medical experience of a patient with nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome in this report.
Reduced sera neutralization to Omicron SARS-CoV-2 by both inactivated and protein subunit vaccines and the convalescents
Authors: Zhao Xin , Li Dedong , Ruan Wenjing , Zhang Rong , Zheng Anqi , Qiao Shitong , Zheng Xinlei , Zhao Yingze , Chen Zhihai , Dai Lianpan , Han Pengcheng , Gao George F.
Published: December 2021

Omicron variant continues to spread all over the world. There are lots of scientific questions remaining to be answered for such a devastating variant. There are a dozen of vaccines already in clinical use. The very urgent scientific question would be whether or not these vaccines can protect Omicron variant. Here, we tested the sera from both convalescents and vaccine recipients receiving either inactivated or protein subunits vaccines (CoronaVac from Sinovac, or BBIBP-CoV from Sinopharm, or ZF2001 from Zhifei longcom) for the binding antibody titers (ELISA) and neutralization antibodies titers (pseudovirus neutralization assay). We showed that Omicron do have severe immune escape in convalescents, with 15 of 16 were negative in neutralization. By contrast, in vaccinees who received three jabs of inactivated or protein subunit vaccine, the neutralizing activity was much better preserved. Especially in the ZF2001 group with an extended period of the second and third jab (4-6 months) remains 100% positive in Omicron neutralization, with only 3.1-folds reduction in neutralizing antibody (NAb) titer. In this case, we proposed that, the multi-boost strategy with an extended interval between the second and third jab for immune maturation would be beneficial for NAb against devastating variants such as Omicron.
Recall of B cell memory depends on relative locations of prime and boost
Authors: Kuraoka Masayuki , Yeh Chen-Hao , Bajic Goran , Kotaki Ryutaro , Song Shengli , Harrison Stephen C. , Kelsoe Garnett
Published: December 2021

Re-entry of memory B cells to recall germinal centers (GCs) is essential for updating their B-cell antigen receptors (BCRs). Using single B-cell culture and fate-mapping, we have characterized BCR repertoires in recall GCs following boost immunizations at sites local or distal to the priming. Local boosts with homologous antigen recruit to recall GCs progeny of primary GC B cells more efficiently than do distal boosts. Recall GCs following local boosts contain significantly more B cells with elevated levels ofIgmutations and higher avidity BCRs. This local preference is unaffected by blockade of CD40:CD154 interaction that terminate active, primary GC responses. Local boosts with heterologous antigens elicit secondary GCs with B-cell populations enriched for cross-reactivity to the priming and boosting antigens; in contrast, cross-reactive GC B cells are rare following distal boosts. Our findings indicate the importance of locality in humoral immunity and inform serial vaccination strategies for evolving viruses.

One Sentence Summary

The participation of memory B cells in recall germinal centers depends on whether the boost is local or distal to the priming site.
Emerging SARS-CoV-2 Variants of Concern: Spike Protein Mutational Analysis and Epitope for Broad Neutralization
Authors: Mannar Dhiraj , Saville James W. , Sun Zehua , Zhu Xing , Marti Michelle M. , Srivastava Shanti S. , Berezuk Alison M. , Zhou Steven , Tuttle Katharine S. , Sobolewski Michele D. , Kim Andrew , Treat Benjamin R. , Da Silva Castanha Priscila Mayrelle , Jacobs Jana L. , Barratt-Boyes Simon M. , Mellors John W. , Dimitrov Dimiter S. , Li Wei , Subramaniam Sriram
Published: December 2021

Mutations in the spike glycoproteins of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern have independently been shown to enhance aspects of spike protein fitness. Here, we report the discovery of a novel antibody fragment (VH ab6) that neutralizes all major variants, with a unique mode of binding revealed by cryo-EM studies. Further, we provide a comparative analysis of the mutational effects within variant spikes and identify the structural role of mutations within the NTD and RBD in evading antibody neutralization. Our analysis shows that the highly mutated Gamma N-terminal domain exhibits considerable structural rearrangements, partially explaining its decreased neutralization by convalescent sera. Our results provide mechanistic insights into the structural, functional, and antigenic consequences of SARS-CoV-2 spike mutations and highlight a spike protein vulnerability that may be exploited to achieve broad protection against circulating variants.
Response of Surface Water Quality Characteristics to Socio-economic Factors in Eastern-Central China
Authors: Duan Maoqing , Zhang Shilu , Xu Mingxia , He Junyu , Gao Yuanyuan , Zhang Jun
Published: December 2021

Following the implementation of the strictest water resource management system in China, it has become increasingly important to understand and improve the surface water quality and the rate at which water function zones reach the water quality standard. Based on the monthly monitoring data from 450 monitoring sites at the provincial borders of 27 provinces in China in 2019, the overall surface water quality at provincial boundaries in China was as follows: 61.7% of the water was classified under Class I–III; and 5%, 8.6%, and 12.2% of the water was classified under Class IV, V, and inferior V, respectively. The main standard items are DO, CODMn, COD, BOD5, NH3-N, and TP. The Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment-water quality index (CCME-WQI) showed that the provincial boundary water quality exceeded the fair level, and F1 was the most influential factor. Then, 27 factors that directly or indirectly affect the water quality of surface water at the provincial boundaries of 27 provinces were identified, and the indirect influencing factors were integrated into the ecological environmental quality index and human activities quantitative index. Finally, the 27 factors were integrated into six factors, and the relationship between these indicators and CCME-WQI as well as the concentration of influencing elements with respect to regulatory standard limits were analyzed. The proportion of building land was the most significant factor affecting the quality of the aquatic environment in provincial boundaries. In addition, the economic development level, proportion of farmland, and degree of social development were identified as significant influencing factors. The six factors have different degrees of impact on the concentrations of major elements with respect to standard limits. This study basically explores water resource management and offers significant reference and guidelines for the improvement of the quality of surface water at provincial boundaries in China.
Accounting, performance and accountability challenges in hybrid organisations: a value creation perspective
Authors: Grossi Giuseppe , Vakkuri Jarmo , Sargiacomo Massimo
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Drawing upon theoretical insights on value creation perspectives, the authors aim to advance the understanding of performance and accountability in different hybrid organisations.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conceptualise common theoretical origins of hybrid organisations and how they create and enact value, by reflecting on the Accounting, Auditing and Accountability Journal (AAAJ) special issue articles. Furthermore, the authors propose an agenda for future research into accounting, performance and accountability for hybrid organisations.

Findings

Hybrid organisations can be conceptualised through their approaches to value creation (mixing, compromising and legitimising). This article provides a more detailed understanding of accounting, performance and accountability changes in hybrid organisations.

Practical implications

This contribution also has relevant practical implications for actors, such as politicians, managers, professionals, auditors, controllers and accountants, encased in various hybrid organisations, policy contexts and multi-faceted interfaces between public, private and civil society.

Originality/value

Hybridity lenses reveal novel connections between different types of hybrid organisations and how they create and enact multiple values.
A compact high gain wideband millimeter wave 1 × 2 array antenna for 26/28 GHz 5G applications
Authors: Ghazaoui Yousra , EL Ghzaoui Mohammed , Das Sudipta , Madhav BTP , el Alami Ali
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to present the design, fabrication and analysis of a wideband, enhanced gain 1 × 2 patch antenna array with a simple profile structure to meet the desired antenna traits, such as wide bandwidth, high gain and directional patterns expected for the upcoming fifth-generation (5G) wireless applications in the millimeter wave band. To enhance these parameters (bandwidth and gain), a new antenna geometry by using a T-junction power divider is presented.

Design/methodology/approach

The theory behind this paper is connected with advancements in the 5G communications related to antennas. The methodology used in this work is to design a high gain array antenna and to identify the best possible power divider to deliver the power in an optimized way. The design methodology adopts several steps like the selection of proper substrate material as per the design specification, size of the antenna as per the frequency of operation and application-specific environment condition. The simulation has been performed on the designed antenna in the electromagnetic simulation tool (high-frequency structure simulator [HFSS]), and optimization has been done with parametric analysis, and then the final array antenna model is proposed. The proposed array contains 2-patch elements excited by one port adapted to 50 Ω through a T-junction power divider. The 1 × 2 array configuration with the suggested geometry helps to improve the overall gain of the antenna, and the implementation of the T-junction power divider provides enhanced bandwidth. The proposed array designed using a 1.6 mm thick flame retardant substrate occupies a compact area of 14 × 12.14 mm2.

Findings

The prototype of the array antenna is fabricated and measured to validate the design concept. A good agreement has been reached between the measured and simulated antenna parameters. The measured results confirm its wideband and high gain characteristics, covering 24.77–28.80 GHz for S11= –10 dB with a peak gain of about 15.16 dB at 27.65 GHz.

Originality/value

The proposed antenna covers the bandwidth requirements of the 26 GHz n258 band (24.25–27.50 GHz) to be deployed in the UK and Europe. The suggested antenna structure also covers the federal communications commission (FCC)-regulated 28 GHz n261 band (27.5–28.35 GHz) to be deployed in America and Canada. The low profile, compact size, simple structure, wide bandwidth, high gain and desired directional radiation patterns confirm the applicability of the suggested array antenna for the upcoming 5 G wireless systems.
Academic's perceptions of work-integrated learning in non-vocational disciplines
Authors: Lloyd Gabrielle A. , Dean Bonnie Amelia , Eady Michelle J. , West Conor , Yanamandram Venkata , Moroney Tracey , Glover-Chambers Tracey , O'Donnell Nuala
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Work-integrated learning (WIL) is a strategy that enhances student learning and employability by engaging students in real-world settings, applications and practices. Through WIL, tertiary education institutions forge partnerships with industry to provide students with access to activities that will contribute to their career-readiness and personal growth. The purpose of the paper is to explore academics perceptions of WIL from non-vocational disciplines, where WIL opportunities are less prevalent.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed a qualitative, case-study methodology to unpack academics' reflections on the question “What does WIL mean to you?” Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 33 subject coordinators across a number of non-vocational degrees at one university in Australia. Open coding and thematic analysis was used to explore qualitative data and identify common themes.

Findings

Data suggest that academics largely have placement-based understandings of WIL that cause tensions for embedding WIL meaningfully in their courses. Tensions surface when WIL is perceived as a pedagogy that contributes to the neoliberal agenda that sits in conflict with theoretical approaches and that restrict notions of career.

Originality/value

Although WIL is not relevant in all subjects, these understandings are a useful starting point to introduce WIL meaningfully, in various ways and where appropriate, in order to provide students opportunities for learning and employability development. The paper has implications for faculty, professional learning and institutional strategies concerning WIL for all students.
Consumer approach intentions amid COVID-19: the role of safety compliance and perceived risk
Authors: Maher Amro A. , Elsharnouby Tamer H. , Aljafari Abdullah M.
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This study aims to investigate how employee and other-consumer safety compliance amid the COVID-19 outbreak influences a focal consumer’s intention to approach a service establishment. The study also examines the three-way interaction effect of employee compliance, other-consumer compliance and perceived threat associated with COVID-19 on approach intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses an experimental approach with a 2 (employee safety compliance: low vs high) × 2 (other-consumer safety compliance: low vs high) × 2 (consumer perceived threat from COVID-19: low vs high) between-subjects design. Students were trained to recruit a convenience sample of 827 consumers in Qatar and data were analyzed using ordinary least squares (OLS) regression.

Findings

Employee safety compliance has a positive impact on the consumer’s approach intentions. Employee safety compliance has a bigger impact on approach intentions if other consumers in the service environment are also compliant with safety measures and even a greater effect when the perceived threat from COVID-19 is high. The effect of the interaction between employee and other-consumer safety compliance is significantly different under two levels of perceived threat.

Practical implications

To enhance approach intentions, managers should start by establishing and maintaining safety compliance among employees and then achieving compliance among consumers. Achieving compliance among employees and consumers has a positive impact on approach intentions despite the focal consumer’s perceived risk associated with COVID-19.

Originality/value

This is the first study to investigate how the safety compliance of employees and other consumers jointly affects consumers’ approach intentions during a global pandemic, and it is among very few attempts to manipulate dimensions of the social servicescape.
Framing and facilitating complex problem-solving competences in interdisciplinary megaprojects: an institutional strategy to educate for sustainable development
Authors: Bertel Lykke Brogaard , Winther Maiken , Routhe Henrik Worm , Kolmos Anette
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Problem-based learning (PBL) has been suggested as an approach to education for sustainable development (ESD); however, the integration of interdisciplinarity is continuously challenged as it requires transfer and collaboration across disciplinary boundaries, as well as integration into an often already-overflowing curriculum. Even in formalized PBL universities emphasizing student responsibility for defining relevant problems, envisioning sustainable solutions and developing transversal competences, interdisciplinary collaboration is still often “relocated” to extra-curricular activities. This paper aims to explore Aalborg University (AAU) Megaprojects as a case for systematically integrating principles of ESD, and particularly interdisciplinarity, into PBL at scale.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper proposes a framework for analysing potentials and challenges concerning interdisciplinary framing and facilitation in large-scale projects based on PBL- and ESD-related research and presents findings from a case study on the first three rounds of megaprojects at AAU in 2019 and 2020.

Findings

The findings indicate that interdisciplinary megaprojects have the potential to motivate students to engage in sustainable development; however, they require systematic framing and guided facilitation, particularly in the early stages, for students to take ownership, prioritize collaboration and see the contribution to and connection between disciplines. They also need prioritization at all institutional levels to succeed as an institutional strategy of ESD.

Originality/value

The paper provides insights into the potentials and challenges of framing and facilitating large-scale megaprojects as an approach to integrate the SDGs and interdisciplinary collaboration into higher education. Hence, it aims to provide new insights, concepts and practices for ESD and PBL for sustainability.
Board gender diversity, board compensation and firm performance. Evidence from Jordan
Authors: Almarayeh Taha
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This study aims to analyze the relationship between board gender diversity, board compensation and firm financial performance in the developing country, Jordan, whose cultural, economic and institutional context is very different from most previously analyzed countries’ context.

Design/methodology/approach

Ordinary least squares regression was used to examine the association between board gender diversity, board compensation and firm financial performance in a sample of 510 firm-year observations during the years 2009–2018. Generalized least squares estimation method was used to confirm that the results are robust.

Findings

The author provides new evidence that board gender diversity does not contribute to firm financial performance. The author also detects that there is a positive relationship between board compensation on firm financial performance.

Originality/value

This paper examines the under-researched relationship between board gender diversity, board compensation and firm financial performance. In so doing, the author tries to provide new insights into this relationship within the developing context, the case of Jordan that has a different environment from that of advanced markets. To the best of the researcher’s knowledge, this is almost certainly the first research to investigate the impact of board gender diversity and board compensation on firm financial performance in the Jordanian market. This manuscript is expected to be used as a reference by the regulators and policymakers – both in Jordan and other countries with a similar institutional, cultural setting – to provide a deep understanding of the impact of board gender diversity and board compensation on the firm performance.
Factors associated with the adoption of data analytics by internal audit function
Authors: Islam Sharif , Stafford Thomas
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The benefits of data analytics in the internal audit function (IAF) are clear; less is known about IAF adoption of analytics. The purpose of this study is to examine the factors driving IAF adoption of analytics.

Design/methodology/approach

The Common Body of Knowledge of Internal Auditing Database (IIA, 2015) provides auditor responses on key variables of analysis.

Findings

The results of this study indicate the most critical adoption factor is data-specific IT knowledge in the IAF. Critical thinking skills and business knowledge of chief audit executive (CAEs) also contribute to adoption. IAFs with fraud risk detection responsibly are more likely to adopt. IAFs in technologically advanced cultures are more likely to adopt analytics.

Originality/value

The results of this study document the critical factors driving adoption of audit analytics, benefitting both industry and research.
Intraspecific trait changes have large impacts on community functional composition but do not affect ecosystem function
Authors: Pichon Noémie A. , Cappelli Seraina L. , Allan Eric
Published: December 2021

Plant functional traits can provide a mechanistic understanding of community responses to global change and of community effects on ecosystem functions. Nitrogen enrichment typically shifts trait composition by promoting the dominance of acquisitive plants (high specific leaf area [SLA] and low leaf dry matter content [LDMC]), translating into high biomass production. Changes in mean trait values can be due to shifts in species identity, relative abundances and/or intraspecific trait values. However, we do not know the relative importance of these shifts in determining trait responses to environmental changes, or trait effects on ecosystem functioning, such as biomass production.

We quantified the relative importance of species composition, abundance and intraspecific shifts in driving variation in SLA and LDMC, and how these shifts affected above‐ and below‐ground biomass. We measured traits in a grassland experiment manipulating nitrogen fertilisation, plant species richness, foliar fungal pathogen removal and sown functional composition (slow vs. fast species). We fitted structural equation models to test the importance of abundance and intraspecific shifts in determining (a) responses of functional composition to treatments and (b) effects on above‐ and below‐ground biomass.

We found that species intraspecific shifts were as important as abundance shifts in determining the overall change in functional composition (community weighted mean trait values), and even had large effects compared to substantial initial variation in sown trait composition. Intraspecific trait shifts resulted in convergence towards intermediate SLA in diverse communities; although convergence was reduced by nitrogen addition and enhanced by pathogen removal. In contrast, large intraspecific shifts in LDMC were not influenced by the treatments. However, despite large responses, intraspecific trait shifts had no effect on above‐ or below‐ground biomass. Only interspecific trait variation affected functioning: below‐ground biomass was reduced by SLA and increased by LDMC, while above‐ground biomass was increased by SLA.

Synthesis. Our results add to a growing body of literature showing large intraspecific trait variation and emphasise the importance of using field collected data to determine community functional composition. However, they also show that intraspecific variation does not necessarily affect ecosystem functioning and therefore response–effect trait relationships may differ between versus within species.
Low phosphate mitigates cadmium‐induced oxidative stress in Saccharomyces cerevisiae by enhancing endogenous antioxidant defence system
Authors: Kerdsomboon Kittikhun , Techo Todsapol , Limcharoensuk Tossapol , Tatip Supinda , Auesukaree Choowong
Published: December 2021

Cadmium is a highly toxic heavy metal that causes many harmful effects on human health and ecosystems. Metal chelation‐based techniques have become a common approach for the treatment of metal poisoning and also for the remediation of metal contamination. Phosphate, an essential nutrient required for key cellular functions, has been supposed to be effective in reducing cadmium bioavailability, possibly through its chelating potential. In this study, we explored the effects of phosphate on cadmium toxicity and cellular response to cadmium stress in the eukaryotic model Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Our results reveal that cadmium toxicity is unexpectedly enhanced during phosphate repletion and optimal phosphate levels for yeast growth under cadmium stress conditions decline with increasing cadmium concentrations. The profound cadmium toxicity during phosphate repletion is unlikely to result from either elevated cadmium accumulation or dysregulated homeostasis of essential metals, but rather due to increased production of intracellular reactive oxygen species. We show that, under phosphate‐depleted conditions, the activities of antioxidant enzymes, especially Mn‐superoxide dismutase and catalase, are significantly promoted through transcriptional upregulation. Our findings highlight the important role of cellular response to phosphate limitation in mitigating cadmium toxicity and endogenous oxidative stress through the enhancement of antioxidant enzyme activity.
Farmers and the Origin of the Welfare State: Evidence from 308 Roll Call Votes between 1882 and 1940☆
Authors: Rasmussen Magnus Bergli
Published: December 2021

Studies of early social policy development highlight the progressive role of farmers, especially in Scandinavian countries. I argue that this notion does not match with the role played by farmer's representatives or the party in parliament. Being ideologically committed to more market‐oriented solutions, less exposed to labour market risks and fearing for their labour supply, Farmers as a social group and party, I argue, had strong incentives to resist welfare state expansion. This study moves beyond single events or a small selection of reforms used in previous studies, to ascertain preferences of farmers over all welfare reforms undertaken up to 1940. Using newly collected data on roll calls for 308 failed and successful legislative proposals in Norway between 1882 and 1940, totalling 24,791 votes this approach allows for greater precision in measuring the preferences of classes and parties on welfare policy. I find that farmer MPs as a class and later as a party consistently downvote generous welfare compared to the worker parties. Conservatives and Farmers turn out to be equally antagonistic to welfare proposals compared to Labour. This pattern is not substantially transformed during the period of Worker–Farmer coalitions of the 1930s. Further, considering the backgrounds of Members of Parliament (MP), farmers' representatives systematically vote against generous welfare proposals, even voting and vocally protesting coverage extensions to the rural sector. It is therefore doubtful whether the origins of Scandinavian universalism prior to 1940 can be found in the role played by farmers.
Changes in alcohol use by cannabis use status among adolescents and young adults in the United States: Emerging evidence for both substitution and complementarity
Authors: Weinberger Andrea H. , Zhu Jiaqi , Levin Jacob , Moeller Scott J. , McKee Sherry A. , Goodwin Renee D.
Published: December 2021

Background

The majority of adolescents and young adults (AYA) who use cannabis also use alcohol. Although cannabis use is increasing in the United States (US), it is not known whether the increase contributes to either increased co‐use of alcohol and cannabis (e.g., complementarity) or replacement of alcohol with cannabis (e.g., substitution). The current study estimated the prevalence of alcohol use by cannabis use status among US AYA ages 12 to 25 in 2018 and trends in alcohol use by cannabis use status from 2002 to 2018.

Methods

Data were drawn from the 2002 to 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health public use data files. The analytic sample included AYA ages 12 to 25 (2018 sample, n = 26,924; total combined sample 2002 to 2018, n = 576,053). Linear and logistic regression models were used to estimate past‐month alcohol use, daily alcohol use, and average quantity of alcohol consumed among AYA with and without past‐month cannabis use from 2002 to 2018.

Results

In 2018, any alcohol use and daily alcohol use were significantly more common among AYA who used cannabis use than those who did not use cannabis. Overall, any alcohol use, daily alcohol use, and average drinks per day declined from 2002 to 2018 among AYA irrespective of recent cannabis use. However, the decline in any alcohol use, daily alcohol use, and average alcohol drinks per day was more rapid among AYA who used cannabis (daily and nondaily) than those who did not use cannabis. The rate of decline in average alcohol drinks per day was also higher among AYA with daily compared to nondaily cannabis use.

Conclusions

Even with declines in alcohol use over time, drinking is much more common among AYA who report cannabis than those without recent cannabis use, which is consistent with complementarity. Yet, because the decline in alcohol use has been more rapid among AYA who use cannabis, there is also evidence of substitution. Thus, the current data on alcohol and cannabis use are consistent with both complementarity and substitution. However, these relationships may change as cannabis legalization expands over time.
Characterisation of the calcium silicate‐based cement–composite interface and the bonding strength with total‐etch or single/two‐stage self‐etch adhesive systems
Authors: Mutluay Abidin Talha , Mutluay Merve
Published: December 2021

Due to favourable biological and physical properties, calcium silicate‐based cements (CSCs) are biocompatible materials used widely for vital pulp therapies. Sealing efficacy between the adhesive system and CSC determines the clinical success of treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the shear bond strength (SBS) of CSC to composite resin with different adhesive systems and to analyse the CSC–composite interface. Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) (ProRoot MTA; Dentsply Tulsa Dental, Tulsa, OK), Biodentine (Septodont, Saint‐Maur‐des‐Fossés, France) and NeoMTA Plus (Avalon Biomed Inc., Bradenton, FL) samples (n = 90) were placed in the cavities and divided into three subgroups according to the adhesive family (n = 10). SBSs were measured using a universal testing machine. The interfaces were examined using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) (×1000). NeoMTA Plus showed significantly higher SBS values than MTA and Biodentine (P < 0.0001). The application of total‐etch adhesive system over Biodentine and NeoMTA Plus provided the statistically highest bond strength (P < 0.05). However, when the SBS values of MTA subgroups were compared, different adhesive families applied over MTA did not make a significant difference in SBS values (P > 0.05). Based on SEM analyses, the specimens exhibit no gaps, cracks or delamination within the adhesive layer, which indicates a good adhesion between the CSC–composite interface in all subgroups. In conclusion, the different adhesive families used over CSC did not influence interfacial gap formation.
Frequency of middle mesial canal in mandibular first molars and its association with various anatomic variables
Authors: Bhatti Usman Anwer , Muhammad Muhammad , Javed Muhammad Qasim , Sajid Muhammad
Published: December 2021

This study aimed to determine the frequency of the middle mesial canal in the mandibular first molars and its association with various anatomical features. Two experienced endodontists evaluated 149 CBCT images, containing n = 298 mandibular first molars and n = 298 mandibular second molars. Binary logistic regression was used to explore the relationship between the presence of middle mesial canal and other independent variables. The middle mesial canal was found in 7.7% (n = 23) of mandibular first molars and 11.4% of which exhibited adjacent C‐shaped mandibular second molars. The presence of an adjacent C‐shaped mandibular second molar was associated with a 3 times increased likelihood of finding a middle mesial canal (P = 0.048, OR: 3.108) in mandibular first molars. The middle mesial canal is an uncommon finding with a rare occurrence of bilateral presence in mandibular molars; however, an adjacent C‐molar is an important predictor of middle mesial canal presence.