bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What next for end-point assessments?
Authors: Baker Denise , Robertshaw David
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This paper reflects on changes to end-point assessment (EPA) brought about as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and considers how proposed future change will impact on training providers and employers of health apprentices.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides an analysis of apprenticeship policy, the role of EPA and consideration of assessment strategies used in higher education and health professions. Implications for policy, training providers and clinical practice are proposed.

Findings

These changes will bring the completion of EPA closer to education providers and allow them to take a more direct role within the process. Education providers will need to be issued with clear guidance to ensure regulatory compliance. The pedagogical value of EPA is questioned.

Originality/value

Training providers and policymakers will need to review their processes and guidance appropriately. This paper provides a summary of salient points needing consideration.
Determinants of alliance productivity and performance: evidence from the automobile industry
Authors: Rajan Rishabh , Dhir Sanjay , Sushil
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This study aims to identify critical factors and examine their impact on alliance performance from an organizational learning point of view.

Design/methodology/approach

A modified total interpretive structural modeling (M-TISM) methodology was used in this study. The different paths/links in the developed M-TISM model were further validated by using the Mahindra-Ford alliance case study.

Findings

In this study, a total of seven critical factors were identified using an extensive literature review, and a hierarchical model was developed. Results show that prior alliance experience, inter-partner learning, knowledge transfer, absorptive capacity and knowledge internalization have a positive on the alliance productivity and performance. Furthermore, the findings indicate that prior alliance experience remains essential for alliance productivity and performance, while knowledge transfer and absorptive capacity can contribute to inter-partner learning and knowledge internalization in strategic alliances.

Research limitations/implications

This study can help managers and policymakers to understand the identified critical factors from an organizational learning perspective and understand their impact on the alliance performance in a competitive environment. The managers should know that previous alliance experience, learning from partner firms, building an absorptive capacity, etc., are necessary to achieve superior alliance productivity and performance. For academicians, the M-TISM methodology used in this study can provide a mechanism to perform exploratory research and build a hierarchical model in different management research fields.

Originality/value

The study fills research gaps by identifying key factors, developing a hierarchical model, and examining their impact on the performance of strategic alliances in the Indian automotive industry.
No fault found: a systematic literature review and future research agenda
Authors: Singh Vipin Prakash , Ganguly Kunal , Samad Taab Ahmad
Published: July 2021

Purpose

No fault found (NFF) in maintenance has been a frequently observed problem in industrial sectors, but very few academic contributions are devoted to reviewing and summarizing the related research. Considering the growing interest of academicians in NFF during the last decade, there is a critical need to examine theme evolution in this field, most influential authors, contemporary practices, research gaps and proposed solutions.

Design/methodology/approach

A portfolio of 169 articles published between 1982 and 2020 was collected from the Scopus database and was systematically analyzed using a two-tier method. First, the evolution, current state of literature and research clusters are identified using bibliometric techniques. Finally, the research clusters are studied to understand the literature's main themes and develop the future research agenda using content analysis.

Findings

The results indicate that publications on NFF are rising quickly in the last decade, especially after 2010. The previous NFF research primarily focuses on system design, fault diagnostics, reliability engineering, data management and human factors, but the criticality of economic and risk analysis has not been significantly represented.

Research limitations/implications

The study resulted in developing an inclusive framework and identifying six research clusters that will help in granular understanding, benefit the researchers, practitioners and policy formulators in NFF.

Originality/value

This study examines the NFF's current research direction and calls for further research in integrating NFF economics on its stakeholders like manufacturers, supply chain, customers and risk analysis during the product life cycle.
Hindering talented employees’ internal mobility: managers’ territorial response to stress
Authors: Kraichy David , Walsh Megan M.
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Integrating territoriality and the job demands-resources model, this study investigated tactics that managers use to hinder their talented employees’ internal job transfer attempts. This study proposed that managers’ psychological ownership of talent would relate to their use of persuasion and nurturing tactics, and that managers’ role overload and job social support would moderate these relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

The data for this study was collected by administering two surveys approximately two weeks apart. A hundred and sixteen managers provided complete data for analysis.

Findings

Psychological ownership of talent related to persuasion tactics but not nurturing tactics. When overload was higher and social support was lower, managers with higher psychological ownership reported using more persuasion tactics to hinder their talented employees’ internal mobility. This study did not find significant interactions for nurturing tactics.

Practical implications

Internal talent hindering can impede employee access to critical learning and growth opportunities, and employees who feel their mobility is restricted may be more inclined to turnover. Accordingly, managers who hinder internal mobility can negatively affect talented employees’ leadership development within an organization and the effectiveness of its succession plans.

Originality/value

This study demonstrates empirically that managers intentionally use tactics to hinder the internal transfers of their talented employees. This study identifies predictors and boundary conditions of hindering tactics, and this knowledge can help organizations address internal talent hindering.
Cyber risk management in SMEs: insights from industry surveys
Authors: Hoppe Felicitas , Gatzert Nadine , Gruner Petra
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This article aims to gain insights on the current state of small- and medium-sized enterprises’ (SMEs’) cyber risk management process and to derive future research directions.

Design/methodology/approach

This is done by collecting market insights from 37 recent industry surveys and structuring them based on the steps of the risk management process. From this analysis, major challenges are derived and future fields of research identified.

Findings

The results indicate that deficiencies in risk culture as well as the strained market for IT experts are the major obstacles with respect to the implementation of cyber risk management in SMEs, and that these challenges are similar across countries. The findings suggest that especially the relationship between cyber security culture and cyber risk management should be investigated further, and that a stronger link between the research streams on enterprise risk management and cyber risk management would be desirable.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the literature by providing a systematic overview on the current state of SMEs' cyber risk management from a market perspective. The findings provide support for the existing academic literature by emphasizing the central role of cyber security culture (perception, knowledge, attitude) for a successful cyber risk management, which however should be addressed in more depth in future (empirical) research.
Reflections on the future visions of UK tourism outlined in Burkart and Medlik's 1974 book: tourism: past, present, and future
Authors: Hay Brian
Published: July 2021

Purpose

To explore the future visions outlined in one of the first academic books on UK tourism to venture into tourism futures. Through today’s lens, their visions are explored through three topics: Future Markets and Destinations; Future Resources; and the Future Organization of Tourism.

Design/methodology/approach

Exploring the backstory, key drivers and tipping points of UK tourism development and tourism education during the 1960s and 1970s, they help to understand the rationale for the authors 1974 future visions of UK tourism. These visions are tested against reality, using a mixture of data, softer evidence and the authors’ judgements.

Findings

Acknowledging the authors showed courage in presenting their future visions, when so little was known about the development of tourism, let alone tourism futures. The article highlights the successes and failures of their future visions across 20 tourism sectors, through 55 tourism forecasts. The reasons for weaknesses in some of their forecasts, and their foresight in highlighting little known issues are explored, along with key learning points for tourism futurists.

Research limitations/implications

The future visions of UK tourism were tested against data and other evidence, but this was not always possible. Therefore, the success or failures of some of the visions are based on the authors’ judgement.

Originality/value

Over the past 50 years, there has been a steady growth in tourism futures studies. Given the recent increase in awareness of history in driving futures thinking, perhaps now is the time to apply this viewpoint to previously published tourism futures studies because such reviews provide a timely reminder of the transient nature of tourism futures gazing.
Drivers of soil microbial community assembly during recovery from selective logging and clear‐cutting
Authors: Chen Jie , Chazdon Robin L. , Swenson Nathan G. , Xu Han , Luo Tushou
Published: July 2021

Despite important progress in understanding the impacts of forest clearing and logging on above‐ground communities, how these disturbances affect soil microbial β‐diversity and the ecological processes driving microbial assemblages are poorly understood. Furthermore, whether and how the microbial shifts affect vegetation composition and diversity during recovery of post‐logged forests remain elusive.

Using a spatial grid experiment design in a primary tropical forest intermixed with post‐logged patches naturally recovered for half century in Hainan Island, China, we characterized and explained the distance–decay relationships of soil microbial similarities in primary, selectively logged and clear‐cut forests.

Selectively logged sites showed a lower spatial turnover rate of bacterial assemblages based on phylogenetic and taxonomic β‐diversity, but a higher spatial turnover rate of fungal assemblages based on phylogenetic β‐diversity, suggesting a higher level of phylogenetic variability in fungal composition. Clear‐cut sites showed lower spatial turnover for both bacterial and fungal assemblages based on the two β‐diversity, indicating community homogenization. Main drivers of microbial assemblages shifted from soil properties in primary forest to tree composition in selectively logged sites, whereas microbial–tree associations declined in clear‐cut sites, leading to stochastically organized microbial assemblages.

Synthesis and applications. The increased fungal phylogenetic turnover with tree turnover following selective logging promotes unassisted recovery of plant diversity. In contrast, the decoupling of tree and microbial turnover following clear‐cutting suggests restoration approaches based on tree planting, and tree species that have strong associations with bulk soil microbial community should be considered. Our findings advance the understanding of spatial patterns, processes and drivers of soil microbial assemblages in parallel with tree community recovery during regeneration of post‐logged tropical forests, and highlight the importance of coupling assemblage patterns between tree and soil fungal communities for conserving tropical forest biodiversity.
Control of postharvest fungal diseases in fruits using external application of RNAi
Authors: de Oliveira Filho Josemar Gonçalves , Silva Guilherme da Cruz , Cipriano Lavínia , Gomes Mariana , Egea Mariana Buranelo
Published: July 2021

Contamination with a variety of filamentous fungi can cause deterioration of food and agricultural products. Fungal contaminations reduce the quality and the shelf life of fresh fruits and are one of the main causes of economic loss in the global fresh fruit industry. Although chemical fungicides are effective and traditionally used to control postharvest fungal diseases, they are harmful to human health. In this context, use of RNA interference (RNAi)‐based fungicides is a promising alternative strategy. Spray‐induced gene silencing (SIGS) is an innovative RNAi‐based approach for silencing target genes in phytopathogens. This review aims to discuss the recent findings on the use of RNAi‐based fungicides to control the postharvest spoilage of fresh fruits.

Practical Application

Control of postharvest fungal diseases is one of the most important strategies to make food available to consumers longer. In this sense, the external application of RNAi seems to be technologically advantageous and efficient as it helps to maintain the characteristics of plant products. In this sense, this review discussed what is possible to find in the literature regarding this new technology.
Changes of lipids in noodle dough and dried noodles during industrial processing
Authors: Yang Zhen , Huang Qian , Xing Jun‐Jie , Guo Xiao‐Na , Zhu Ke‐Xue
Published: July 2021

This study investigated the changes of lipids during the industrial preparation of noodle dough and dried noodles, including the hydration, sheeting, and drying processes. The results showed that industrial processing markedly influenced the stability of lipids during the preparation of dried noodles. The contents of total free fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and free lipids were reduced, while peroxide values increased during the hydration and sheeting processes, showing the instability of lipids. The increase in lipid oxidation may have been due to the activation of lipoxygenase. Although its activity declined by 45.7% in the hydration process compared to that of the native wheat flour (198.5 ± 20.4 U/g/min), the residue activity should have been high enough to oxidize lipids. Interestingly, lipase activity remained relatively stable. In addition, an obvious increase of carbon‐centered free radicals was observed during the entire processing. In conclusion, the industrial processing, especially the hydration process, markedly changed the lipid profile and promoted lipid oxidation during the preparation of dried noodles.

Practical Application

The present study showed the positive relationship between endogenous lipid degrading enzymes and the degradation of lipids and elucidated the role of industrial processing on lipid stability in noodle dough and dried noodles. The results of the present study will also help us to understand more about the sensory quality of dried noodles during preparation, as well as to develop high quality of wheat‐based food products.
Nomogram for hepatic venous pressure gradient in patients with cirrhosis
Authors: Zhou Li Li , Wang Guang Chuan , Zhang Ming Yan , Huang Guang Jun , Li Wen , Wang Ling Yun , Wang Ai Hua , Zhang Chun Qing
Published: July 2021

Objective

The hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) plays an important role in the treatment and prognosis of patients with cirrhosis. Our study aimed to develop and validate a nomogram for an HVPG >12 mmHg.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed to create a nomogram for an HVPG >12 mmHg in a training cohort that was validated in another cohort. The discriminatory ability and calibration of the nomogram were tested using the C‐statistic, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) and calibration plots.

Results

The nomogram was based on portosystemic shunts identified on computed tomography images, the etiology of cirrhosis and the Child‐Pugh grade. These parameters were significantly associated with an HVPG >12 mmHg (P < 0.05 for both the training and validation cohorts). In the training cohort, the model showed good discrimination (C‐statistic, AUROC, and R2 of 0.71, 0.71 and 0.13, respectively) and good calibration. The total cutoff value was 112 and the sensitivity and specificity were 57.1% and 77.6%, respectively. The application of the nomogram in the validation cohort still yielded good discrimination (C‐statistic 0.75 [95% confidence interval 0.61‐0.89], AUROC 0.75, and R2 0.16) and good calibration.

Conclusions

This nomogram is a convenient tool for predicting an HVPG >12 mmHg in patients with cirrhosis and can help clinicians quickly identify patients with decompensated cirrhosis.
High ambient temperature exposure during late gestation disrupts glycolipid metabolism and hepatic mitochondrial function tightly related to gut microbial dysbiosis in pregnant mice
Authors: He Jianwen , Liu Riliang , Zheng Weijiang , Guo Huiduo , Yang Yunnan , Zhao Ruqian , Yao Wen
Published: July 2021

As global warming intensifies, emerging evidence has demonstrated high ambient temperature during pregnancy negatively affects maternal physiology with compromised pregnant outcomes; however, little is known about the roles of gut microbiota and its underlying mechanisms in this process. Here, for the first time, we explored the potential mechanisms of gut microbiota involved in the disrupted glycolipid metabolism via hepatic mitochondrial function. Our results indicate heat stress (HS) reduces fat and protein contents and serum levels of insulin and triglyceride (TG), while increases that of non‐esterified fatty acid (NEFA), β‐hydroxybutyric acid (B‐HBA), creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) (P < 0.05). Additionally, HS downregulates both mitochondrial genes (mtDNA) and nuclear encoding mitochondrial functional genes with increasing serum levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and 8‐hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG) (P < 0.05). Regarding microbial response, HS boosts serum levels of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (P < 0.05) and alters β‐diversity (ANOSIM, P < 0.01), increasing the proportions of Escherichia–Shigella, Acinetobacter and Klebsiella (q < 0.05), while reducing that of Ruminiclostridium, Blautia, Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group, Clostridium VadinBB60 and Muribaculaceae (q < 0.05). PICRUSt analysis predicts that HS upregulates 11 KEGG pathways, mainly including bile secretion and bacterial invasion of epithelial cells. The collective results suggest that microbial dysbiosis due to late gestational HS has strong associations with damaged hepatic mitochondrial function and disrupted metabolic profiles.
Engineering a probiotic strain of Escherichia coli to induce the regression of colorectal cancer through production of 5‐aminolevulinic acid
Authors: Chen Junhao , Li Xiaohong , Liu Yumei , Su Tianyuan , Lin Changsen , Shao Lijun , Li Lanhua , Li Wanwei , Niu Guoyu , Yu Jing , Liu Ling , Li Miaomiao , Yu Xiaoli , Wang Qian
Published: July 2021

Bacterial vectors can be engineered to generate microscopic living therapeutics to produce and deliver anticancer agents. Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (Nissle 1917) is a promising candidate with probiotic properties. Here, we used Nissle 1917 to develop a metabolic strategy to produce 5‐aminolevulinic acid (5‐ALA) from glucose as 5‐ALA plays an important role in the photodynamic therapy of cancers. The coexpression of hemAM and hemL using a low copy‐number plasmid led to remarkable accumulation of 5‐ALA. The downstream pathway of 5‐ALA biosynthesis was inhibited by levulinic acid (LA). Small‐scale cultures of engineered Nissle 1917 produced 300 mg l−1 of 5‐ALA. Recombinant Nissle 1917 was applied to deliver 5‐ALA to colorectal cancer cells, in which it induced the accumulation of antineoplastic protoporphyrin X (PpIX) and specific cytotoxicity towards colorectal cancer cells irradiated with a 630 nm laser. Moreover, this novel combination therapy proved effective in a mouse xenograft model and was not cytotoxic to normal tissues. These findings suggest that Nissle 1917 will serve as a potential carrier to effectively deliver 5‐ALA for cancer therapy.
Adverse social experiences in adolescent rats result in persistent sex‐dependent effects on alcohol‐seeking behavior
Authors: Surakka Akseli , Vengeliene Valentina , Skorodumov Ivan , Meinhardt Marcus , Hansson Anita C. , Spanagel Rainer
Published: July 2021

Background

Accumulating clinical evidence suggests that women with prior exposure to adverse childhood experiences are more susceptible to heavy drinking and other health‐related behaviors. Yet, preclinical studies investigating sex‐dependent effects of adolescent adverse social experiences (ASEs) on later alcohol‐seeking behavior are lacking. This is mainly due to the unavailability of valid animal models and a shortage of studies that compare effects in males and females. Therefore, we sought to investigate the sex‐dependent effects of ASE on adult alcohol‐seeking behavior, locomotion, and reward sensitivity in male and female rats.

Methods

We recently developed a rat model for childhood/adolescent peer rejection that allows us to study the long‐term consequences of ASEs. Adolescent Wistar rats were reared from postnatal day (pd) 21 to pd 50 either within a group of Fischer 344 rats (ASE) or within a group of Wistar rats (control). Wistar rats housed with Fischer 344 rats do not reciprocate social play in adolescence. This reduced play across adolescence mimics peer rejection and results in chronic dysregulation of social and pain‐related behaviors. We tested adult male and female rats in the reinstatement paradigm for cue‐induced alcohol‐seeking behavior, circadian locomotor activity, and sucrose consumption long after the termination of the peer rejection condition.

Results

Peer rejection induced persistent sex‐dependent changes in alcohol cue‐induced reinstatement. Females showed an increased reinstatement effect while peer‐rejected males demonstrated a decrease. Sex differences were observed in locomotor activity or reward sensitivity to sucrose.

Conclusions

Peer rejection has long‐lasting sex‐dependent consequences on alcohol‐seeking behavior without affecting locomotion or sweet reward sensitivity. Our results suggest that peer‐rejected female rats represent a vulnerable population in which to study relapse‐like behaviors that are similar to clinical findings, while males seem to buffer the peer rejection effect and demonstrate resilience to later life alcohol‐seeking behaviors, as measured by the reinstatement effect. Finally, we provide a novel approach to investigate the molecular and neurobiological underpinnings of ASEs on alcohol and other drug‐seeking behaviors.
Migration and risk of intellectual disability with and without autism: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Morinaga Maki , Hollander Anna‐Clara , Heuvelman Hein , Lundberg Michael , Dalman Christina , Rai Dheeraj , Magnusson Cecilia
Published: July 2021

Objective

To investigate whether parental migration, parental region of origin, timing of child's birth in relation to maternal migration and parental reason for migration are associated with intellectual disability (ID) with and without autism.

Methods

We used a register‐based cohort of all individuals aged 0–17 years in Stockholm County during 2001–2011. General estimating equation logistic model and additionally sibling comparison were used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The models were adjusted for child's sex and birth year and parental age at child's birth, and additionally for migrant‐specific variables in the analyses including only children with migrant parent(s).

Results

Within the eligible sample of 670,098 individuals, 3781 (0.6%) had ID with autism, and 5076 (0.8%) had ID without autism. Compared with children with Swedish‐born parents, children with both parents born abroad had an increased risk of ID with autism (OR = 1.6, CI 1.5–1.8) and ID without autism (OR = 1.9, CI 1.7–2.0). Among these children with both parents born abroad, it was protective of ID with autism when the child's birth occurred before and later than four years after maternal migration, which was replicated in the sibling comparison. The associations with both conditions were more pronounced with parental origin in regions comprising low‐ and middle‐income countries and with reasons other than work or study.

Conclusions

Parental migration is associated with ID regardless of co‐occurrence of autism. Our results indicate an association between environmental factors during pregnancy related to migration and offspring ID with autism, although further confirmative studies are needed.
Morphometric analysis of cervical vertebrae in some marine and land mammals
Authors: Boonsri Burin , Nganvongpanit Korakot , Buddhachat Kittisak , Punyapornwithaya Veerasak , Kongtueng Piyamat , Kaewmong Patcharaporn , Kittiwattanawong Kongkiat
Published: July 2021

Bones or skeletal remains can be used to answer a number of questions related to species, sex, age or cause of death. However, studies involving vertebrae have been limited as most were performed on skulls or long bones. Here, we have stated the hypothesis that the morphometry of cervical vertebrae can be used for species identification and body size estimation among marine and land mammals. The cervical vertebrae from eight and 14 species of marine and land mammals were used to collect morphometric data. Cluster dendrogram, principal component analysis, discriminant analysis and linear regression were used to analyse the data. The results indicate that, based on an index of C4 to C7, there were 13 out of 22 species for which identity could be correctly predicted in 100% of the cases. The correlations between cervical vertebrae parameters (height, width and length of centrum) in marine (average R2 = 0.87, p < .01) and land (average R2 = 0.51, p < .01) mammals were observed. These results indicate that vertebral morphometrics could be used for species prediction and verification of body weight in both marine and land mammals.
Life beyond life: Repair, reuse, and recycle—the many lives of wooden objects and the mutability of trees
Authors: Sands Rob
Published: July 2021

An invitation by the editorial team of this special edition is the genesis of this paper. It considers how actions such repair, reuse, adaption, and recycling are identified, and understood, with respect to wooden things found in the archaeological record. An exhaustive review is not possible in a paper of this size, so instead a range of examples, across time and space, are selected to discuss these themes and to act as a catalyst for further thought. Woodland, and its entangled relationships with people, inevitably provides a background rhythm, allowing for a reflection on how we consider trees, their mutability, and the many lives of wooden things.
Evaluation of area under the concentration curve adjusted by the terminal‐phase as a metric to reduce the impact of variability in bioequivalence testing
Authors: Lucas Adam J. , Ogungbenro Kayode , Yang Shuying , Aarons Leon , Chen Chao
Published: July 2021

Aim

To quantify the utility of a terminal‐phase adjusted area under the concentration curve method in increasing the probability of a correct and conclusive outcome of a bioequivalence (BE) trial for highly variable drugs when clearance (CL) varies more than the volume of distribution (V).

Methods

Data from a large population of subjects were generated with variability in CL and V, and used to simulate a two‐period, two‐sequence crossover BE trial. The 90% confidence interval for formulation comparison was determined following BE assessment using the area under the concentration curve (AUC) ratio test, and the proposed terminal‐phase adjusted AUC ratio test. An outcome of bioequivalent, nonbioequivalent or inconclusive was then assigned according to predefined BE limits.

Results

When CL varied more than V, the proposed approach enhanced the probability of correctly assigning bioequivalent or nonbioequivalent and reduced the risk of an inconclusive trial. For a hypothetical drug with between‐subject variability of 35% for CL and 10% for V, when the true test‐reference ratio of bioavailability was 1.15, a crossover study of n = 14 subjects analysed by the proposed method would have 80% or 20% probability of claiming bioequivalent or nonbioequivalent, compared to 22%, 46% or 32% probability of claiming bioequivalent, nonbioequivalent or inconclusive using the standard AUC ratio test.

Conclusions

The terminal‐phase adjusted AUC ratio test represents a simple and readily applicable approach to enhance the BE assessment of drug products when CL varies more than V.
Impact of employees’ perceived threat of market competition on unethical marketing and selling practices: Moral disengagement and ethical leadership
Authors: Khan Salim , Khan Abdul Karim , Shah Adnan Muhammad , Ali Liaqat , Ullah Rizwan
Published: July 2021

This study draws on the social cognitive theory to examine the effect of perceived market competition on employees’ unethical marketing and selling practices. The boundary conditions associated with this relationship were examined, and we posit that perceived market competition is related to unethical marketing and selling practices through the mediating mechanism of moral disengagement. We further propose that ethical leadership moderates the relationship between the perceived threat of market competition, moral disengagement, and tendency toward unethical marketing and selling practices. We tested our hypotheses with a sample of 387 employees working in the banking sector in Pakistan. Our results suggest that moral disengagement had a full mediation effect between the perceived threat of market competition and tendency of employees toward unethical marketing and selling practices. Moreover, ethical leadership moderated the relationship between moral disengagement and the tendency of employees toward unethical marketing practices. The research findings indicate that when field employees encounter threat perceptions due to market competition, they have a propensity toward engaging in unethical marketing and selling practices when they can activate moral disengagement. This study also found that ethical leadership negatively moderates the relationship of moral disengagement with employees’ tendency toward unethical marketing and selling practices.
Ethics at the workplace in the fourth industrial revolution: A Catholic social teaching perspective
Authors: Melé Domènec
Published: July 2021

While many studies on the Fourth Industrial Revolution (FIR) focus on efficiency, productivity and economic progress, only a few have considered its ethical aspects. This article tries to contribute to filling this vacuum by providing a comprehensive approach to ethical risks at the workplace. Drawing upon Catholic social teaching (CST)—addressed to all people of good will—it analyzes ethical aspects at the workplace posited by the FIR, and more particularly by Industry 4.0, which is at the core of this revolution. CST emphasizes the dignity of the worker and the necessity to flourish at the workplace. While robots, artificial intelligence, and interconnected technologies are only instrumental, the real subject of work is the worker. This casts specific light on the ethical issues analyzed, including effects on employment, wages and inequality, human quality treatment, relational aspects, safety and health, surveillance on employees, and meaningful work.
Hydroxyurea treatment and neurocognitive functioning in sickle cell disease from school age to young adulthood
Authors: Heitzer Andrew M. , Longoria Jennifer , Okhomina Victoria , Wang Winfred C. , Raches Darcy , Potter Brian , Jacola Lisa M. , Porter Jerlym , Schreiber Jane E. , King Allison A. , Kang Guolian , Hankins Jane S.
Published: July 2021

Neurocognitive impairment is common in sickle cell disease (SCD) and is associated with significant functional limitations. In a cross‐sectional analysis, we examined the association between hydroxyurea (HU) treatment and neurocognitive functioning from school‐age to young adulthood in individuals with SCD. A total of 215 patients with HbSS/HbSβ0‐thalassaemia (71% HU treated) and 149 patients with HbSC/HbSβ+‐thalassaemia (20% HU treated) completed neurocognitive measures at one of four developmental stages: school‐age (age 8–9 years), early adolescence (age 12–13 years), late adolescence (age 16–17 years) and young adulthood (ages 19–24 years). For participants with multiple assessments, only the most recent evaluation was included. In multivariable analysis adjusted for social vulnerability, HU treatment and sex, older age was associated with a reduction in overall intelligence quotient (IQ) of 0·55 points per year of life [standard error (SE) = 0·18, false discovery rate adjusted P value (PFDR) = 0.01] for patients with HbSS/HbSβ0‐thalassaemia. Earlier initiation of HU (n = 152) in HbSS/HbSβ0‐thalassaemia was associated with higher scores on neurocognitive measures across most domains, including IQ [estimate (SE) 0·77 (0·25)/year, PFDR = 0·01], after adjusting for social vulnerability, sex and treatment duration. These results support the early use of HU to limit the detrimental neurocognitive effects of SCD, while highlighting the need for additional measures to further mitigate neurocognitive deterioration.
Radiation treatment in prostate cancer: covering the waterfront
Authors: Kamran Sophia C. , Zietman Anthony L.
Published: July 2021

Objectives

To present an overview of radiation therapy (RT) for prostate cancer over the past decade.

Methods

The literature on prostate cancer radiation therapy was reviewed and summarised. Radiation therapy (RT) for prostate cancer has dramatically evolved in the past decade, with superior techniques and exciting advances, pushing the role of the radiation oncologist to new frontiers.

Results

Innovations in imaging, treatment delivery, and a deeper understanding of biology has resulted in more tailored RT for individuals. In the present review, we summarise the changing landscape and broadly discuss new developments in prostate RT.

Conclusions

Questions and challenges remain in the field, however there are multiple opportunities to further improve upon RT for our patients with prostate cancer.
Plasma extracellular vesicle microRNA‐491‐5p as diagnostic and prognostic marker for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Panvongsa Wittaya , Siripoon Teerada , Worakitchanon Wittawin , Arsa Lalida , Trachu Narumol , Jinawath Natini , Ngamphaiboon Nuttapong , Chairoungdua Arthit
Published: July 2021

Poor survival of patients with locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (LA‐HNSCC) is partly due to early diagnosis difficulties and the lack of reliable biomarkers for predicting treatment outcomes. In the discovery cohort, plasma‐derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) from LA‐HNSCC patients (n = 48) and healthy volunteers (n = 12) were used for profiling for microRNA (miRNA) expression by NanoString analysis. Ten EV‐associated miRNAs were differentially expressed between LA‐HNSCC patients and healthy volunteers. Subsequently, the results were validated in the individual discovery and additional cases (HNSCC, n = 73; control, n = 20) by quantitative RT‐PCR. Among 10 EV‐miRNAs, four (miR‐27b‐3p, miR‐491‐5p, miR‐1910‐5p, and miR‐630) were significantly dysregulated in LA‐HNSCC patients (n = 73) compared with healthy volunteers (n = 20). The miRNA prediction models were developed to discriminate HNSCC patients from healthy volunteers. The model using miR‐491‐5p was selected as a diagnostic biomarker for LA‐HNSCC with a sensitivity and specificity of 46.6% and 100%, respectively (P < .001). The dynamic changes of miRNA model score (ΔmiRNAs) were determined using scores pre‐ and postdefinitive treatment to further investigate the prognostic value of miRNA prediction models. The univariate and multivariate analyses indicated that ΔmiR‐491‐5p was the most powerful and independent prognostic indicator for overall survival (hazard ratio [HR] 5.66, 95% confidence interval, 1.77‐18.01; P = .003) and disease‐free survival (HR 2.82, 95% CI, 1.13‐7.05; P = .027) of HNSCC patients. In summary, the miR‐491‐5p prediction model could serve as a blood‐based diagnostic marker for LA‐HNSCC. Moreover, ΔmiR‐491‐5p could be a potential monitoring prognostic marker to reflect the survival of HNSCC patients.
An investigation of the relationship between the eating behaviours of children with typical development and autism spectrum disorders and parent attitudes during mealtime eating behaviours and parent attitudes during mealtime
Authors: Öz Sena , Bayhan Pınar
Published: July 2021

Background

Nutrition has significant importance in the course of growth and development in early childhood. Selective and fussy eating is prevalent among children with autism spectrum disorder and can have a profound impact on parents' mealtime actions.

Aims

The study aimed to investigate the relationship between parental mealtime actions and the eating behaviours of children aged 3–5 years with typical development (TD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Methods

A total of 180 parents of children between 3 and 5 years in Ankara participated in the study; 90 were parents of children with TD, and 90 were parents of children with ASD. We measured the variables using the Brief Assessment of Mealtime Behaviour in Children (BAMBIC), Children's Eating Behaviour Questionnaire (CEBQ), and Parent Mealtime Action Scale (PMAS).

Results

The results revealed that food refusal, disruptive behaviours, and limited variety in TD children were related to parental actions, such as the use of rewards. We also found a negative correlation between enjoyment of food and the use of rewards. Children with ASD displayed differences concerning food refusal, and their parents were found to prepare more special meals for them compared with children with TD.

Conclusion

Despite differences, the eating behaviours of children with TD and ASD show similarities in some cases. If a child has a low interest in eating, then their parents tend to be more insistent, use more rewards, and offer special meals. On the contrary, a child's high interest in eating harms such parental behaviours. Because an acknowledgement that a relationship exists between the eating behaviours of children and parental actions would make intervening to shape parental attitudes easier, it is recommended that future studies should be carried out to respond to the eating problems of children by working with parents.
Whole exome sequencing identified a novel frameshift variant in the BHLHA9 in an Iranian family with mesoaxial synostotic syndactyly
Authors: Sedighzadeh Sahar Sadat , Sedaghat Alireza , Zamani Mina , Seifi Tahere , Shariati Gholamreza , Zeighami Jawaher , Mazaheri Neda , Galehdari Hamid
Published: July 2021

Mesoaxial synostotic syndactyly with phalangeal reduction (MSSD) represents a rare non‐syndromic defect with an autosomal recessive pattern of inheritance. Sequence variants in the BHLHA9 gene cause MSSD and to date only a few mutations in this gene have been reported. In the present report, we have described a consanguineous Iranian family segregating MSSD in an autosomal recessive manner. The family had two affected siblings showing evidence of camptodactyly in some fingers, complete syndactyly of the 3rd and 4th fingers with synostoses of the corresponding metacarpals, and associated single phalanx in both right and left hand. Whole exome sequencing (WES) followed by segregation analysis using Sanger sequencing identified a novel homozygous frameshift variation [c.74_74delG p.(G25Afs*55)] in the BHLHA9 gene. This has expanded the spectrum of mutations in the BHLHA9 and will facilitate genetic counseling in Iranian families segregating MSSD‐related phenotypes.
A rare congenital esophageal anomaly mimicking an isolated esophageal atresia: Kluth Type IV1a membranous esophageal atresia
Authors: Boybeyi‐Turer Ozlem , Iyigun Irem , Cagan Murat , Celik Hasan Tolga , Ozyuncu Ozgur , Soyer Tutku
Published: July 2021

Congenital esophageal web is a very rare type of esophageal atresia (EA) and is considered as Type IV atresia in Kluth's classification. Type IV EA is further classified into subgroups according to the location of web and the presence of tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF). Herein, we present a newborn having Type IV1a EA who was initially suspected as isolated EA and has co‐existing malrotation together with the review of the literature. A newborn having congenital esophageal web was admitted with antenatal ultrasonography revealing polyhydramnios, dilated stomach, and duodenum. Abdominal X‐ray revealed a gasless abdomen suggesting isolated EA. The upper gastrointestinal series confirmed complete obstruction at the lower esophagus. Bronchoscopy performed excluding TEF. Laparotomy revealed intestinal malrotation and the absence of another GI webs. Gastrotomy was performed and mucosal web at GEJ was seen by pushing nasogastric catheter. Web excision and Ladd procedure were performed. Congenital esophageal web is an extremely rare type of esophageal anomaly that can be only classified in Kluth classification. A high index of suspicion is required for diagnosis especially in newborns with the gasless abdomen and esophageal obstruction at the level of GEJ. Preoperative bronchoscopy is mandatory to exclude an associating TEF. Surgical exploration via laparotomy is beneficial for exploring additional GIS anomalies.
Short stature with low insulin‐like growth factor 1 availability due to pregnancy‐associated plasma protein A2 deficiency in a Saudi family
Authors: Babiker Amir , Al Noaim Khalid , Al Swaid Abdulrahman , Alfadhel Majid , Deeb Asma , Martín‐Rivada Álvaro , Barrios Vicente , Pérez‐Jurado Luis A. , Alfares Ahmed , Al Alwan Ibrahim , Argente Jesús
Published: July 2021

In 2016 a new syndrome with postnatal short stature and low IGF1 bioavailability caused by biallelic loss‐of‐function mutations in the gene encoding the metalloproteinase pregnancy‐associated plasma protein A2 (PAPP‐A2) was described in two families. Here we report two siblings of a third family from Saudi Arabia with postnatal growth retardation and decreased IGF1 availability due to a new homozygous nonsense mutation (p.Glu886* in exon 7) in PAPPA2. The two affected males showed progressively severe short stature starting around 8 years of age, moderate microcephaly, decreased bone mineral density, and high circulating levels of total IGF1, IGFBP3, and the IGF acid‐labile subunit (IGFALS), with decreased free IGF1 concentrations. Interestingly, circulating IGF2 and IGFBP5 were not increased. An increase in growth velocity and height was seen in the prepuberal patient in response to rhIGF1. These patients contribute to the confirmation of the clinical picture associated with PAPP‐A2 deficiency and that the PAPPA2 gene should be studied in all patients with short stature with this characteristic phenotype. Hence, pediatric endocrinologists should measure circulating PAPP‐A2 levels in the study of short stature as very low or undetectable levels of this protein can help to focus the diagnosis and treatment.
Collaboration in colorectal surgical research
Authors: Rosenberg Jacob , Angenete Eva , Pinkney Thomas , Bhangu Aneel , Haglind Eva
Published: July 2021

Surgical research has been under‐powered, under‐funded and under‐delivered for decades. A solution may be to form large research collaborations and thereby enable implementation of successful interventional trials as well as robust international observational studies with thousands of patients. There are many such research collaborations in colorectal surgery, and in this paper we have highlighted the experiences from the West Midlands Research Collaborative (WMRC), the Scandinavian Surgical Outcomes Research Group (SSORG) and the European Society of Coloproctology. With active research networks, it is possible to deliver large, high‐quality studies and provide high‐level evidence for solving important clinical questions in an efficient and timely manner.
Cognitive impairment burden in older and younger adults across the kidney transplant care continuum
Authors: Chu Nadia M. , Chen Xiaomeng , Gross Alden L. , Carlson Michelle C. , Garonzik‐Wang Jacqueline M. , Norman Silas P. , Mathur Aarti , Abidi Maheen Z. , Brennan Daniel C. , Segev Dorry L. , McAdams‐DeMarco Mara A.
Published: July 2021

Background

Younger kidney transplant (KT) candidates and recipients may have cognitive impairment due to chronic diseases and reliance on dialysis.

Methods

To quantify cognitive impairment burden by age across the KT care continuum, we leveraged a two‐center cohort study of 3854 KT candidates at evaluation, 1114 recipients at admission, and 405 recipients at 1‐year post‐KT with measured global cognitive performance (3MS) or executive function (Trail Making Test). We also estimated burden of severe cognitive impairment that affects functional dependence (activities of daily living [ADL] < 6 or instrumental activities of daily living [IADL] < 8).

Results

Among KT candidates, global cognitive impairment (18–34 years: 11.1%; 35–49 years: 14.0%; 50–64 years: 19.5%; ≥65 years: 22.0%) and severe cognitive impairment burden (18–34 years: 1.1%; 35–49 years: 3.0%; 50–64 years: 6.2%; ≥65 years: 7.7%) increased linearly with age. Among KT recipients at admission, global cognitive impairment (18–34 years: 9.1%; 35–49 years: 6.1%; 50–64 years: 9.3%; ≥65 years: 15.7%) and severe cognitive impairment burden (18–34 years: 1.4%; 35–49 years: 1.4%; 50–64 years: 2.2%; ≥65 years: 4.6%) was lower. Despite lowest burden of cognitive impairment among KT recipients at 1‐year post‐KT across all ages (18–34 years: 1.7%; 35–49 years: 3.4%; 50–64 years: 4.3%; ≥65 years: 6.5%), many still exhibited severe cognitive impairment (18–34 years: .0%; 35–49 years: 1.9%; 50–64 years: 2.4%; ≥65 years: 3.5%).

Conclusion

Findings were consistent for executive function impairment. While cognitive impairment increases with age, younger KT candidates have a high burden comparable to community‐dwelling older adults, with some potentially suffering from severe forms. Transplant centers should consider routinely screening patients during clinical care encounters regardless of age.