bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Success Rate of Buccal Fat Pad Removal in Cases of Previous Injection Lipolysis of the Cheeks: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Sirimahachaiyakul Pornthep , Tansawet Amarit , Wannachamras Saran
Published: November 2023

Background:

Although buccal fat pad removal for facial slimming has a high success rate, fibrosis in patients with a history of cheek injection lipolysis may pose challenges. Therefore, we evaluated the success rate and procedure-related complications of buccal fat pad removal in patients with a history of cheek injection lipolysis.

Methods:

Patients who underwent buccal fat pad removal between September 2016 and February 2020 were categorized according to a history of lipolysis (injection lipolysis group versus control group). The primary and secondary outcomes were the success rate of buccal fat pad removal and the incidence of procedure-related complications, respectively.

Results:

The study sample comprised 100 patients (14 men; 86 women; mean age, 27.49 ± 6.26 years; mean follow-up duration, 7.41 months), with 61 patients (nine men; 52 women) in the injection lipolysis group and 39 patients (five men; 34 women) in the control group. The mean buccal fat pad weight did not differ significantly between the two groups. However, the success rate was 91.8% (56/61 patients) and 100% (39/39 patients) in the injection lipolysis and control groups, respectively. Complications were exclusively observed in the injection lipolysis group [8/122 cheeks (6.6%); control group, 0/78 cheeks (0%)].

Conclusions:

Buccal fat pad removal effectively enhances the aesthetic appearance of the lower face. However, in patients with a history of cheek injection lipolysis, the success rate of buccal fat pad removal is lower, and the incidence of complications is significantly higher. Consequently, caution should be exercised when performing this procedure in specific patient populations.
A single shell protein plays a major role in choline transport across the shell of the choline utilization microcompartment of Escherichia coli 536
Authors: Ochoa Jessica M. , Dershwitz Philip , Schappert Mary , Sinha Sharmistha , Herring Taylor I. , Yeates Todd O. , Bobik Thomas A.
Published: November 2023

Bacterial microcompartments (MCPs) are widespread protein-based organelles that play important roles in the global carbon cycle and in the physiology of diverse bacteria, including a number of pathogens. MCPs consist of metabolic enzymes encapsulated within a protein shell. The main roles of MCPs are to concentrate enzymes together with their substrates (to increase reaction rates) and to sequester harmful metabolic intermediates. Prior studies indicate that MCPs have a selectively permeable protein shell, but the mechanisms that allow selective transport across the shell are not fully understood. Here we examine transport across the shell of the choline utilization (Cut) MCP of

Escherichia coli

536, which has not been studied before. The shell of the Cut MCP is unusual in consisting of one pentameric and four hexameric bacterial microcompartment (BMC) domain proteins. It lacks trimeric shell proteins, which are thought to be required for the transport of larger substrates and enzymatic cofactors. In addition, its four hexameric BMC domain proteins are very similar in amino acid sequence. This raises questions about how the Cut MCP mediates the selective transport of the substrate, products and cofactors of choline metabolism. In this report, site-directed mutagenesis is used to modify the central pores (the main transport channels) of all four Cut BMC hexamers to assess their transport roles. Our findings indicate that a single shell protein, CmcB, plays the major role in choline transport across the shell of the Cut MCP and that the electrostatic properties of the CmcB pore also impact choline transport. The implications of these findings with regard to the higher-order structure of MCPs are discussed.
scLKME: A Landmark-based Approach for Generating Multi-cellular Sample Embeddings from Single-cell Data
Authors: Yi Haidong , Stanley Natalie
Published: November 2023

Single-cell technologies enable high-dimensional profiling of individual cells, therefore offering profound insights into subtle variation between specialized cell-types. However, translating the multitude of nuanced cellular profiles into meaningful per-sample representations is challenging due to heterogeneous cellular composition across individual profiled samples. To compute informative per-sample representations, we developed scLKME, a novel approach that uses a landmark-based kernel mean embedding method to convert multi-sample single-cell data into compact per-sample embeddings. Treating each sample as a distribution over cells, scLKME identifies landmarks across samples and maps these distributions into a reproducing kernel Hilbert space. Overall, scLKME outperforms state-of-the-art techniques in robustness, efficiency, accuracy, and practical usefulness of sample embeddings. Its application on a CyTOF dataset profiling immune responses in preterm birth highlighted its capacity to accurately identify patient-specific variations correlating with gestational age, suggesting broad applicability to multi-sample single-cell datasets with complex experimental designs. scLKME is available as an open-sourced python package athttps://github.com/CompCy-lab/scLKME.
“You just struggle on your own:” Exploring older consumers’ perspectives about falls prevention education in hospitals
Authors: Hill Anne-Marie , Vaz Sharmila , Francis-Coad Jacqueline , Flicker Leon , Morris Meg E. , Weselman Tammy
Published: November 2023

Introduction

While individualised falls preventive education has been effective in reducing hospital falls among older patients, there is a dearth of research exploring consumers’ perspectives on hospital falls prevention education.

Objective

This study aimed to explore the knowledge of older consumers regarding preventing falls in hospital and their reflections on the education received during hospitalisation.

Methods

A qualitative, exploratory study incorporating focus groups and semi-structured interviews was undertaken. The participants consisted of a purposively selected sample of community-dwelling consumers aged 65 and above (n=39 older adults and n=9 family carers of older adults) who had been admitted to a hospital within the past five years. Thematic analysis, incorporating deductive and inductive approaches, was applied and a capability-opportunity-motivation-behaviour model was utilised to comprehend the key determinants influencing the implementation of falls education for hospitalised older adults.

Results

Feedback from the participants (n=46, 25 females, age range 60 to 89 years) revealed five key themes: distress and disempowerment resulting from hospital falls, anxiety and uncertainty regarding required behaviour while hospitalised, insufficient and inconsistent falls prevention education, inadequate communication, and underlying ageism attitudes. These themes converged to provide the overarching theme: “This [support and education available to engage in safe falls prevention behavior] wasn’t what we expected!” Application of the behaviour change model indicated that older consumers often did not acquire falls prevention knowledge, awareness or motivation, and had limited opportunities to engage in falls preventive behaviour during hospitalisation.

Discussion

In summary, older consumers receive sporadic falls prevention education during hospital admissions, which fails to raise their awareness and knowledge of falls risks or their capability to engage in safe preventive behaviours. Conflicting messages contribute to consumer confusion and anxiety about maintaining safety during hospital stays.

Conclusion

Further research is required to address these issues to enable older adults to undertake effective falls prevention behaviours in hospital settings. Hospital policies and guidelines need to prioritise falls prevention education. Policies can be designed to emphasise tailored education, effective communication, and the importance of addressing ageism to enhance patient safety and well-being.
Design and first-round commissioning result of the SASE beamline at the Shanghai Soft X-ray FEL facility
Authors: Xue Chaofan , Guo Zhi , Liu Haigang , Chen Jiahua , Tong Yajun , Fan Jiadong , Jiang Huaidong , Liu Zhi , Zhang Ximing , Tai Renzhong
Published: November 2023

The Shanghai Soft X-ray Free-Electron Laser (SXFEL) is the first X-ray free-electron laser facility in China. The SASE beamline, which consists of a pink-beam branch and a mono-beam branch, is one of the two beamlines in the Phase-I construction. The pink-beam branch opened for users in 2023 after successful first-round beamline commissioning. In this paper, the design of the beamline is presented and the performance of the pink-beam branch is reported. The measured energy-resolving power of the online spectrometer is over 6000 @ 400 eV. The focusing spot size of the pink beam is less than 3 µm in both the horizontal and vertical at the endstation.
Extension of heritage brands and consumer purchase intention with the moderating role of pop culture involvement: an empirical analysis of time-honoured brands in China
Authors: He Jinhua , Xiang Jiaxin , Wang Jing
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study explores the influence of heritage brand extension on consumer purchase intention and analyses the effects of pop culture involvement. The extension of heritage brands is becoming increasingly difficult because such an extension needs to be consistent with the unique characteristics of brands and resonate with consumers. However, few scholars discuss the influence of consumers' level of pop culture involvement on brand extension and purchasing behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

Taking time-honoured brands as an example, this study established a conceptual model based on a comprehensive review of the literature, and then tested the model using a sample of 255 respondents who were familiar with one of the selected Chinese time-honoured brands. Structural equation modelling was used to analyse the relationships amongst brand extension fit, pop culture involvement, perceived value and purchase intention.

Findings

Time-honoured brand extension fit has a positive impact on consumer purchase intention, and this path is significantly influenced by the mediation mechanisms of perceived value. Situational pop culture involvement can significantly strengthen the relationship between time-honoured brand extension fit and perceived value, whereas enduring pop culture involvement does not.

Originality/value

The results clarify and expand on the different roles of cultural involvement in time-honoured brands and broaden research on the influence of cultural involvement in this regard. This study has significant theoretical value for the inheritance and revival of heritage brands and provides a reference for the practice of time-honoured brands.
How blockchain technology supports the business processes of clinical trials: a systematic review
Authors: Moatari-Kazerouni Afrooz , Pai Dinesh R. , Chicas Alejandro E. , Keramati Amin
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The authors propose a blockchain platform for managing clinical trial data to enhance data validity, integrity, trust and transparency in the pharmaceutical research process. The authors also provide an extensive review of how blockchain technology supports the business processes of clinical trials.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review was conducted to identify the existing applications of blockchain in pharmaceutical process management. A conceptual design for a blockchain infrastructure to address clinical trial challenges is developed by outlining the entire clinical trial value chain and identifying the coordination and communication among its stakeholders. A stakeholder analysis is conducted to ensure that the clinical trial processes satisfy the requirements and preferences of each stakeholder.

Findings

The proposed blockchain platform offers a promising solution for enhancing integrity, trust and transparency in the clinical trial process. Additionally, blockchain can help streamline communication and collaboration between stakeholders by enabling multiple parties to access and share data in real time, lowering the possibility of delays or errors in data analysis and reporting.

Practical implications

The proposed blockchain platform can benefit patients by empowering them to have better-controlled access to their data and by allowing researchers to maintain adherence to reporting requirements. Additionally, the platform can benefit granting agencies, researchers and decision-makers by ensuring the integrity of clinical trial data and streamlining communication and collaboration between stakeholders.

Originality/value

This study builds on existing blockchain applications in pharmaceutical process management by developing a blockchain framework that can address clinical trial concerns from an integrated perspective.
The future of working from home: a mixed-methods study with IT professionals to learn from enforced working from home
Authors: Lansmann Simon , Mattern Jana , Krebber Simone , Hüllmann Joschka Andreas
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Positive experiences with working from home (WFH) during the Corona pandemic (COVID-19) have motivated many employees to continue WFH after the pandemic. However, factors influencing employees' WFH intentions against the backdrop of experiences during pandemic-induced enforced working from home (EWFH) are heterogeneous. This study investigates factors linked to information technology (IT) professionals' WFH intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

This mixed-methods study with 92 IT professionals examines the effects of seven predictors for IT professionals' WFH intentions. The predictors are categorized according to the trichotomy of (1) characteristics of the worker, (2) characteristics of the workspace and (3) the work context. Structural equation modeling is used to analyze the quantitative survey data. In addition, IT professionals' responses to six open questions in which they reflect on past experiences and envision future work are examined.

Findings

Quantitative results suggest that characteristics of the worker, such as segmentation preference, are influencing WFH intentions stronger than characteristics of the workspace or the work context. Furthermore, perceived productivity during EWFH and gender significantly predict WFH intentions. Contextualizing these quantitative insights, the qualitative data provides a rich yet heterogeneous list of factors why IT professionals prefer (not) to work from home.

Practical implications

Reasons influencing WFH intentions vary due to individual preferences and constraints. Therefore, a differentiated organizational approach is recommended for designing future work arrangements. In addition, the findings suggest that team contracts to formalize working patterns, e.g. to agree on the needed number of physical meetings, can be helpful levers to reduce the complexity of future work that is most likely a mix of WFH and office arrangements.

Originality/value

This study extends literature reflecting on COVID-19-induced changes, specifically the emerging debate about why employees want to continue WFH. It is crucial for researchers and practitioners to understand which factors influence IT professionals' WFH intentions and how they impact the design and implementation of future hybrid work arrangements.
Supplier-customer relationships for sustainability-led innovation in the textile industry
Authors: Dominidiato Matteo , Guercini Simone , Milanesi Matilde , Tunisini Annalisa
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate sustainability-led innovation, focusing on the interplay between product and process innovation for sustainability goals and the underlying supplier–customer relationships. Thus, the paper delves into sustainability-led innovation and how it affects supplier–customer relationships, and vice versa, thus providing a twofold perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

The textile industry is the empirical context of this study, which is exploratory research based on in-depth, semi-structured interviews with entrepreneurs, managers and experts in the textile industry.

Findings

In the textile industry, sustainability-led product innovation concerns mainly product durability and performance, product recyclability and the use of waste for new product development. Process innovation deals with circular economy, traceability and water and chemical use minimization. The paper also shows how sustainability-led innovation is implemented in more technical terms and regarding supplier–customer relationships.

Originality/value

The paper adopts an original perspective on how processes take place in the relationships between suppliers and customers, where there is no dominance of one actor, but innovation emerges from interdependence and interaction. Such perspective allows to provide an in-depth analysis of the supplier–customer relationships and underlying dynamics that affect sustainability-led innovation; moreover, the authors study how such innovation impacts supplier–customer relationships and the underlying relational dynamics. The value of the paper also stands in delivering a real representation of the innovation processes grounded in the textile industry.
The value of incorporating a coworking environment into the real estate portfolios of office-based organization
Authors: Gracheva Julia , Groen Brenda H.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to determine the advantages and disadvantages associated with integrating a coworking environment into the real estate portfolios of large office-based organizations. The study discusses both external and internal coworking solutions.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is a literature review and qualitative research based on 12 semistructured interviews with high-level real estate practitioners, including users, suppliers and consultants.

Findings

The authors examined the advantages and disadvantages of incorporating coworking environments into the real estate portfolios of large organizations from the four perspectives of Krummet al.(2000). These perspectives were operationalized through the 12 real estate added value parameters of Jensen and Van der Voordt (2017). The findings show that improved adaptability is the greatest advantage of external coworking solutions (facility management perspective). The most significant advantage of internal coworking is related to stimulation of innovation, creativity and knowledge sharing (general management perspective). The disadvantages of external and internal coworking partly overlap and are mainly the negative effect on the corporate culture (general management perspective).

Originality/value

The findings contribute to the understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of incorporating both external and internal coworking solutions from multiple perspectives and allow to compare them. The authors developed and tested an operationalization of the four perspectives of Krumm (2000) through the 12 added values of Jensen and Van der Voordt (2017). Opinions and perceptions of professionals regarding internal and external coworking models are presented in a framework and related to earlier findings.
The risk of political instability and the performance of Islamic banks: does corruption matter?
Authors: Yunan Zuhairan Yunmi , Alharthi Majed , Jeris Saeed Sazzad
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the relationship between political instability and the performance of Islamic banks in emerging countries.

Design/methodology/approach

For a data sample of 93 Islamic banks in 20 emerging countries during the period from 2011 to 2016, the authors identify indicators that matter most for the activities of Islamic banks.

Findings

The study finds that a stable government and law and order are positively correlated with the health of Islamic financial institutions. On the other hand, corruption and military involvement in politics can create an unstable environment for businesses, leading to uncertainty and risk. The study also reveals that Islamic banks operating in regions or communities with lower risk of socio-economic conditions tend to exhibit higher levels of profitability.

Originality/value

Overall, the study provides valuable insights into the impact of political instability on Islamic banks in emerging countries.
Port operation's efficiency and revenue generation in global maritime trade: implications for national growth and development in Nigeria
Authors: Edih University Ovuokeroye , Faghawari Nyanayon , Agboro Dbright Okiemute
Published: November 2023

Purpose

It has been argued that a mono product economy experiences epileptic growth because it is prone to global dynamics such as epidemic. Therefore, the need to diversify investments cannot be over-emphasized. Hence, the study examined port operation's efficiency and revenue generation in global maritime trade: implications for national growth and development in Nigeria. The objectives of the study are to identify the factors that improve efficiency in port operations, and to ascertain how efficiency of operations will affect revenue generation and national growth.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed correlation and multiple regressions analyses to test the hypothesis which states that port operation's efficiency does not have positive and significant effect on revenue generation in Nigeria. A cross sectional research design and structured questionnaires were deployed in the study and simple random sampling technique was used to select the sample size of 200 respondents.

Findings

Results revealed that efficient port operations affect revenue generation and national development.

Research limitations/implications

Port operations in Nigeria are bedeviled with daunting challenges that hamper smooth and efficient working port's system.

Originality/value

The study suggested that modern port's technologies (ICTs) be deployed to enhance operations in the ports and manpower should be trained on regular intervals to understand modern logistics management techniques in the ports. Third, government should provide port infrastructures being the backbone of efficient port system. Lastly, the private sector should be partnered with in several areas including port's concession to facilitate effective and efficient service delivery in the Nigerian ports.
A comparative analysis of the FIUs and FATF compliance of Canada, Australia, The Netherlands and India
Authors: Pandey Durgesh
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to analyse the Financial Intelligence Units (FIUs) of Canada, Australia, The Netherlands and India, focussing on key internal and external processes, such as the exchange of information, operations and compliance with Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations. The paper relies on secondary sources to compare and assess the practices and strategies employed by FIUs within these jurisdictions.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper relies on secondary sources to compare and assess the practices and strategies used by FIUs within these jurisdictions.

Findings

The ability to combat money laundering and the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) in countries is influenced by several internal and external factors, including the efficiency of their FIUs’ and compliance with FATF recommendations. The analysis of FIUs across the countries demonstrates a raft of multifaceted challenges and concerns. Yet, when it comes to compliance with FATF’s recommendations, shared concerns emerge, hinting at the complex interplay between country-specific operations and global compliance standards. The paper recommends enhancements to the FIUs’ operational efficiency and overall effectiveness in combating financial crimes.

Research limitations/implications

The paper’s findings are limited to openly available data (such as annual reports and internet sources) for the respective countries. The paper relies on the transparency of FIUs through public media, focusing on comparing and analysing the FIUs of only four specific countries, which limits the generalisations of the findings.

Practical implications

This paper is significant for policymakers and FIU authorities, as they strive to improve the effectiveness of their units and assess their performance in alignment with international standards. The comparative analysis of the FIUs of India, Australia, Canada and The Netherlands provides valuable insights and recommendations that can inform policymakers and operational strategies towards enhancing how FIUs function globally.

Originality/value

This paper offers a unique comparative analysis of the FIUs of India, Australia, Canada and The Netherlands. Its findings have practical implications for policymakers and FIU authorities towards enhancing performance against international AML/CFT standards and promoting global cooperation.
Exploring the motivation of surgeons to lead juniors and the impact of their leadership on junior doctors motivation and leadership preference
Authors: Elzahhar Ramy , Aylott Jill , Indrasena Buddhike Sri Harsha , Wrazen Remig , Othman Ahmed
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to conceptualise a research study to examine leadership as a relational concept between leaders and followers. The context is within surgical practice examining how motivated consultant surgeons are to lead junior doctors and which type of leadership style they use. From a follower perspective, the motivation of junior doctors will be explored, and their leadership preferences will be correlated with those of the actual style of consultant surgeons.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the authors provide a detailed description of the methods for an international quantitative research study, exploring sequentially how motivated consultant surgeons are to lead and how leadership styles impact on the motivation of junior doctors. The objectives, method and data collection of this study are explained, and the justification for each method is described.

Findings

The findings for this outline study illustrate how critical it is to redefine leadership as a relational concept of leader and follower to ensure adequate support is provided to the next generation of consultant surgeons. Without consideration of the relational model of leadership, attrition will continue to be a critical issue in the medical workforce.

Research limitations/implications

The research limitations are that this is a proposed quantitative study due to the need to collect a large sample of data from surgeons across the UK, Egypt and Germany. This research will have immense implications in developing new knowledge of leadership as a relational concept in medicine and healthcare. This study additionally will impact on how leadership is conceptualised in the curriculum for specialist surgical practice.

Practical implications

The practical implications are that relational leadership is supportive of generating a supportive leadership culture in the workplace and generating more effective teamwork.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study of its kind to look at a relational model of leadership in surgical practice between consultant surgeons and surgical trainees. This study will also identify any specific country differences between the UK, Germany and Egypt.
Technology orientation and export performance: the moderating role of supply chain agility
Authors: Nakabuye Zaina , Mayanja Jamiah , Bimbona Sarah , Wassermann Micheal
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationships between technology orientations and export performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative research design was adopted for this study. The paper formulates hypotheses from the literature review. These hypotheses are tested using structural equation modeling with data collected from 231 SMEs in Uganda. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23 and AMOS.

Findings

The findings of this study showed technology orientation has a positive and significant relationship with the performance of Ugandan SMEs and that supply chain agility moderates technology orientation and export performance.

Research limitations/implications

The study discusses the findings, advances limitations and managerial implications. It also suggests future research avenues. It proposes some recommendations to help Ugandan SMEs to form flexible supply chains, use the latest technology and create strong relationship ties with their partners in the supply chain.

Practical implications

The study suggests that managers of Ugandan SMEs should use the latest technology in production, marketing, logistics and supply chain management which will enable them to respond quickly to customer tastes and preferences leading to higher levels of export performance.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature on strategic management showing the reliability of scales used and the confirmatory of the factor structure. This study shows that in strategic management technology, orientation is critical in increasing export performance. This study has extended the resource-based view (RBV) and dynamic capabilities theories.
The heterogeneous role of economic and financial uncertainty in green bond market efficiency
Authors: Wei Ping , Zhou Jingzi , Ren Xiaohang , Taghizadeh-Hesary Farhad
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the quantile-specific short- and long-term effects of economic policy uncertainty (EPU) on the efficiency of the green bond market.

Design/methodology/approach

This study examines the long-term cointegration relationship and the short-term fluctuation relationship of EPU, WTI crude oil price (WTI) and European Union Allowances price (EUA) with the green bond market efficiency (GBE) using the quantile autoregressive distributed lag method. Additionally, the authors analyze the differences before and after the Covid-19 pandemic.

Findings

EPU has a significant positive impact on the GBE before the outbreak. However, during the crisis period, the impact of EPU and WTI was greatly weakened, whereas the impact of EUA was strengthened.

Practical implications

This paper demonstrates the dynamics of GBE and its influencing factors under different periods. The findings provide insights for market participants and policymakers to gain a clearer understanding of the green bond market.

Originality/value

This paper extends the study of green bonds by quantifying the GBE and elucidating the nonlinear relationship between efficiency and independent variables at different quantiles over different periods.
Fish microplastic ingestion may induce tipping points of aquatic ecosystems
Authors: Qian Guangjing , Zhang Lai , Chen Yuxin , Xu Chi
Published: November 2023

Microplastics can be ingested by a wide range of aquatic animals. Extensive studies have demonstrated that microplastic ingestion—albeit often not lethal—can affect a range of species life‐history traits. However, it remains unclear how the sublethal effects of microplastics on individual levels scale up to influence ecosystem‐level dynamics through cascading trophic interactions.

Here we employ a well‐studied, empirically fed three‐species trophic chain model, which was parameterized to mimic a common type of aquatic ecosystems to examine how microplastic ingestion by fish on an intermediate trophic level can produce cascading effects on the species at both upper and lower trophic levels.

We show that gradually increasing microplastics in the ingested substances of planktivorous fish may cause population structure effects such as skewed size distributions (i.e. reduced average body length vs. increased maximal body size), and induce abrupt declines in fish biomass and reproduction.

Our model analysis demonstrates that these abrupt changes correspond to an ecosystem‐level tipping point, crossing which difficult‐to‐reverse ecosystem degradation can happen. Importantly, microplastic pollution may interact with other anthropogenic stressors to reduce safe operating space of aquatic ecosystems.

Our work contributes to better understanding complex effects of microplastic pollution and anticipating tipping points of aquatic ecosystems in a changing world. It also calls attention to an emerging threat that novel microplastic contaminants may lead to unexpected and abrupt degradation of aquatic ecosystems, and invites systematic studies on the ecosystem‐level consequences of microplastic exposure.
Exploring teachers' reading knowledge, beliefs and instructional practice
Authors: Kehoe Karen F. , McGinty Anita S.
Published: November 2023

Background

The delivery of effective, evidence‐based early reading instruction depends partially on teachers' knowledge about reading acquisition, development and pedagogy. Research shows that teachers often perform poorly on measures of reading‐related knowledge, often cited as one explanation for a gap between reading research and classroom practice. Studies on whether teacher knowledge improves student learning by leading to higher quality reading instruction, however, have produced mixed results. It is theorised that teachers' beliefs also influence the enactment of knowledge in the classroom. Yet, in comparison with investigations into teachers' knowledge, less research has explored their beliefs, including self‐efficacy expectancy beliefs. Finally, although conceptually both knowledge and beliefs shape teachers' instruction, researchers often have limited information about what actually occurs in the classroom.

Methods

We examined the knowledge, self‐efficacy expectancy beliefs, self‐reported literacy practices and literacy lesson plans of 34 teachers of reading working in four neighbouring rural schools to identify both strengths and areas for growth as potential targets for professional learning efforts.

Results

On average, teachers demonstrated low levels of knowledge, reported implementation of both evidence‐based and nonevidence‐based practices and planned lessons that included only some essential components of a comprehensive early reading programme, with limited evidence of differentiation. Teachers overwhelmingly reported strong self‐efficacy expectancy beliefs for teaching beginning readers.

Conclusions

Addressing the reading research‐to‐practice gap requires deeper understanding of not only teachers' knowledge but also their perceived self‐efficacy and instructional practices. Such information is critical for designing and delivering targeted, effective professional development.
Labour agentry and subsequent adverse mental health outcomes: A follow‐up study of the ARRIVE Trial
Authors: Canfield Dana R. , Allshouse Amanda A. , Smith Jessica , Metz Torri D. , Grobman William A. , Silver Robert M.
Published: November 2023

Objective

Labour can be traumatic for women who perceive they are not involved in decisions affecting their care during labour. Our objective was to assess the relation between labour agentry and subsequent mental health.

Design

Follow‐up cohort study.

Setting

U.S. Tertiary care center.

Population

Participants from Utah who participated in the ARRIVE (A Randomized Trial of Induction Versus Expectant Management) trial.

Methods

During the ARRIVE trial, participants completed the Labor Agentry Scale twice, a validated questionnaire measuring perceived control of patients during childbirth. ARRIVE participants from Utah subsequently were asked to complete questions about mental health history and stressful events occurring since the trial, as well as surveys including the Primary Care Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PC‐PTSD) screen, Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and Generalised Anxiety Disorder‐7 (GAD‐7) screen. The lower quartile of both agentry measurements defined a person's ordinal agentry category, used for assessing cohort characteristics by exposure category. Continuous minimum agentry was included in adjusted modelling.

Main Outcome Measures

The primary outcome was a mental health composite including a positive screen for depression, anxiety, or PTSD or self‐report of a diagnosis or exacerbation since their delivery.

Results

In all, 766 of 1042 (74%) people responded to the survey (median 4.4, range 2.5–6.4 years after delivery) and 753 had complete data for analysis. In unadjusted comparisons across ordinal agentry category, lower agentry was significantly associated with the primary composite endpoint, and depressive symptoms (test of trend p = 0.003 primary, p = 0.004 depression). Lower labour agentry scores were associated with incremental odds of the primary endpoint (1 SD [24 units], adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.21, 95% CI 1.41–1.03), driven by depressive symptoms or self‐reported diagnosis (aOR 1.25, 95% CI 1.47–1.05).

Conclusions

Lower labour agentry at the time of birth was associated with a greater risk for mental health conditions years after delivery, indicating a potential opportunity for primary prevention of subsequent depression.
Identifying the Hydrochemical Characteristics, Genetic Mechanisms and Potential Human Health Risks of Fluoride and Nitrate Enriched Groundwater in the Tongzhou District, Beijing, North China
Authors: ZHANG Shouchuan , LIU Kai , MA Yan , WANG Luyao , SUN Junliang
Published: November 2023

Fluoride and nitrate enriched groundwater are potential threats to the safety of the groundwater supply that may cause significant effects on human health and public safety, especially in aggregated population areas and economic hubs. This study focuses on the high F– and NO3– concentration groundwater in Tongzhou District, Beijing, North China. A total of 36 groundwater samples were collected to analyze the hydrochemical characteristics, elucidate genetic mechanisms and evaluate the potential human health risks. The results of the analysis indicate: Firstly, most of the groundwater samples are characterized by Mg‐HCO3 and Na‐HCO3 with the pH ranging from 7.19 to 8.28 and TDS with a large variation across the range 471–2337 mg/L. The NO3– concentration in 38.89% groundwater samples and the F– concentration in 66.67% groundwater samples exceed the permissible limited value. Secondly, F– in groundwater originates predominantly from water‐rock interactions and the fluorite dissolution, which is also regulated by cation exchange, competitive adsorption of HCO3– and an alkaline environment. Thirdly, the effect of sewage disposal and agricultural activities have a significant effect on high NO3– concentration, while the high F– concentration is less influenced by anthropogenic activity. The alkaline environment favors nitrification, thus being conducive to the production of NO3–. Finally, the health risk assessment is evaluated for different population groups. The results indicate that high NO3– and F– concentration in groundwater would have the largest threat to children's health. The findings of this study could contribute to the provision of a scientific basis for groundwater supply policy formulation relating to public health in Tongzhou District.
In the line of duty: Militarising African epidemics
Authors: Allen Tim , Parker Melissa
Published: November 2023

The deployment of soldiers for epidemic control in Africa has become more acceptable, even when human rights violations occur. This article outlines how this situation has arisen, foregrounding overlapping processes since the 1990s and the implications of Security Council Resolution 2177. It then explores effects with reference to Sierra Leone and Uganda. Drawing on long‐term fieldwork, it discusses militarised epidemic control programmes during Ebola and COVID‐19 outbreaks. It points out similarities in the responses to epidemics in these two countries, including the violent enforcement of regulations, but also striking differences. In Sierra Leone, a democratic transition of governmental power occurred, whereas militarised epidemic control in Uganda helped entrench autocratic public authority. To the extent that there is data available, disease control outcomes in the two countries were not widely divergent, yet the Ugandan response has been valorised. This highlights a drift towards less accountable forms of governance, justified by purported public health objectives.
Event‐level positive and negative reinforcement risk factors for alcohol use: Moderation by individual‐level alcohol consequences and post‐traumatic stress disorder symptom severity
Authors: Dyar Christina , Kaysen Debra
Published: November 2023

Background

The multistage model of drug addiction posits that risk processes contributing to alcohol use change as individuals develop alcohol use disorders. However, few studies have tested this theory outside of the lab or at the event level. We assessed whether event‐level associations between positive reinforcement (e.g., positive affect, sociability expectancies) and negative reinforcement risk factors (e.g., negative affect, tension reduction expectancies) and same‐/next‐day alcohol consumption varied as a function of an individual's level of alcohol consequences. Given elevated alcohol use consequences among individuals with post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and disruptions in reward processing that affect this population, we also tested whether these processes differed based on the presence and severity of PTSD.

Methods

We used data from a 30‐day ecological momentary assessment study with 174 undergraduate women who regularly engaged in heavy episodic drinking. A majority (78%) of the sample had experienced sexual assault and 44% had current PTSD. Analyses used Bayesian multilevel structural equation modeling with diffuse (non‐informative) priors. We used markov chain monte carlo (MCMC) algorithms to generate a series of 10,000 random draws from the multivariate posterior distribution of our sample for each model.

Results

Results partially supported the multistage model. Event‐level negative reinforcement risk factors only predicted more alcohol consumption among individuals who experienced more alcohol consequences. Findings for positive reinforcement risk factors were partially consistent with hypotheses. Overall, findings appear to operate similarly across PTSD symptom severity.

Conclusions

Results suggest that interventions for heavy episodic drinking could benefit from attending to an individual's level of alcohol consequences. For example, preventive interventions for individuals who tend to experience few consequences may benefit more from addressing positive reinforcement risk factors, while treatment interventions for those who experience more consequences may benefit from attending to both positive and negative reinforcement.
Prevalence and morphology of different root canal systems in mandibular premolars: a cross‐sectional observational study
Authors: Rae O , Parashos P
Published: November 2023

Background

This study investigated the prevalence and morphology of C‐shaped and non‐C‐shaped root canal systems in permanent mandibular first (PM1) and second (PM2) premolars using retrospective analysis of cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans, and panoramic radiographs.

Methods

CBCT scans from 2000 patients were screened for the presence of premolars with C‐shaped canals and then assessed at three axial levels to determine the canal classification. The teeth were also assessed for Vertucci configuration, number of roots, and radicular grooves. Pre‐existing panoramic radiographs were evaluated to identify features specific to PM1/2 with multiple canals or C‐shaped anatomy.

Results

A total of 1576 PM1 and 1424 PM2 from 880 patients were evaluated. The overall prevalence of C‐shaped canals was 2.2% (3.3% PM1, 1.0% PM2), with 49 (5.6%) patients presenting with at least one C‐shaped mandibular premolar. There were 2.3 ± 0.6 and 2.4 ± 0.5 different classifiable cross‐sections per tooth for PM1 and PM2, respectively. The sudden disappearance or bifurcation of a canal on panoramic radiographs was associated with the presence of multiple canals (P < 0.001) or C‐shaped anatomy (P = 0.03).

Conclusions

There was substantial variation in cross‐sectional anatomy within and between C‐shaped premolars, which will affect endodontic treatment planning. © 2023 Australian Dental Association.
Burnout and its determinants among anaesthesia care providers in Switzerland: a multicentre cross‐sectional study
Authors: Gasciauskaite G. , Lunkiewicz J. , Braun J. , Kolbe M. , Seelandt J. , Spahn D. R. , Nöthiger C. B. , Tscholl D. W.
Published: November 2023

The escalating epidemic of burnout in healthcare professionals affects provider well‐being, patient care and sustainability of healthcare systems. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of burnout among anaesthesia care providers (consultants, trainees or nurse anaesthetists) in Switzerland and identify risk factors to develop strategies for prevention. This multicentre cross‐sectional study was conducted at 22 anaesthesia departments in the German‐speaking part of Switzerland, using an online questionnaire. Burnout assessment was performed using the Maslach Burnout Inventory. Additionally, the questionnaire included questions on workplace and personal risk factors. Of 1630 anaesthesia care providers contacted, 688 (42%) completed the survey. Among respondents who specified their work positions (n = 676), 52% (149/287) of nurses and 59% (229/389) of physicians were at high risk of burnout; and 9% (26/287) of nurses and 18% (70/389) of physicians met the criteria for burnout syndrome. Logistic regression analysis found significant associations between burnout and perceived lack of support at work among physicians (odds ratio (95%CI) 2.66 (1.40–5.24), p = 0.004); being a trainee in the 1st and 2nd year of training (2.91 (1.14–7.41), p = 0.024); being a trainee with > 5 years of experience (2.78 (1.08–6.98), p = 0.031); and male gender among nurses (4.13 (1.62–11.2), p = 0.004) and physicians (2.32 (1.22–4.47), p = 0.011). Work‐related errors due to high workload or fatigue were reported by 65% (444/688) and consideration of leaving the profession due to working conditions was expressed by 46% (319/688) of respondents. Anaesthetic care providers in German‐speaking Switzerland experience a considerable prevalence of burnout, influenced mainly by workplace factors.
Crosscurrents of Contagion: Snakes, Rumours, Rivers, and Ebola in Sierra Leone's Borderlands
Authors: Anderson Samuel Mark
Published: November 2023

When the Ebola virus crossed undetected into Sierra Leone and exacerbated the 2014–15 crisis, the World Health Organization blamed the breach on a traditional healer treating patients from Guinea. Meanwhile, local residents initially maintained that her death was not Ebola‐related but a serpent's curse, an assumption grounded in lived experience of snake charmer spectacles. Both narratives drowned out evidence that the virus spread not via the healer's covert herbalism, but via her professional connections at the local government clinic and, more broadly, an overtaxed and undertrained public health system. This article takes local rumours around Ebola as vernacular epidemiologies that resonated with sensory experience. They show that both community and humanitarian actors had information; complications arose from the diverse experiences and expectations that shaped responses to that information. Such expectations emerge from the borderland geography, where colonial infrastructures continue to channel perception according to “upriver”, “downriver”, and “crossriver” phenomenologies.