bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Operational efficiency assessment of oil refineries using data envelopment analysis and Tobit model: evidence from India
Authors: Dalei Narendra N. , Joshi Jignesh M.
Published: May 2022

Purpose

In India, the operational performance of the refinery is influenced by many factors. It is important to identify those key drivers which can assist the refineries to uphold and succeed in day-to-day production activities. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to evaluate the operational efficiency of seven Indian oil refineries during the period 2010 to 2018.

Design/methodology/approach

In this work, a two-stage empirical analysis is proposed. In the first stage, the data envelopment analysis (DEA) – variable return to scale model is used to evaluate the operational efficiency of the Indian oil refineries. The ordinary least square (OLS), random effect generalized least square (GLS) and Tobit model are used in the second stage to identify the key determinants of efficiency and to explain the variation in refinery efficiency.

Findings

The first-stage DEA results showed that the Numaligarh Refinery Limited and Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited are found to be more efficient than the rest of the sampled refineries and attained their efficiency scores of 0.993 and 0.981, respectively, during the study period. The second-stage regression analysis suggested three explanatory variables: refinery structure, utilization rate and distillate yield, which are found to be significant in explaining variations in refinery efficiency.

Practical implications

This study provides valuable information that would help policymakers to formulate policies toward improving the efficiency of underperforming Indian refineries, which reduces the excessive use of resources and gives a competitive advantage.

Originality/value

This study proposes the first-ever application of the profit frontier DEA model for assessing the operational efficiency of oil refineries and explains the variation in refinery’s efficiency using OLS, GLS as well as the Tobit model.
Powerful political corporate appointments and firm bribery channels
Authors: Anderson Hamish D. , Liao Jing , Yang Jingjing , Young Martin
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The authors examine the influence of powerful political corporate appointments on the usage of firm bribery channels. Party Secretaries within Chinese state-owned enterprises (SOEs) may simultaneously hold top management positions, thereby endowing powerful firm-level decision rights on those appointees, hereafter referred to as powerful dual role Party Secretaries.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs panel data analysis with industry and year fixed effects. The authors use a sample of 1,143 Chinese SOEs listed on the Shanghai and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges from 2004 to 2015.

Findings

The authors find that powerful dual role Party Secretaries are associated with greater bribery channel usage. Following the ongoing anticorruption campaign, SOEs with the powerful appointments significantly reduce their usage of both transparent (entertainment and travel costs) and opaque bribery (abnormal management expenses) channels. However, in general, Chinese SOEs respond to the anticorruption shock by switching from the more transparent to the opaquer bribery channel.

Originality/value

The authors contribute to the ongoing debate of politicians on corporate boards by examining the relatively unexplored area of government appointed top management and their influence on bribery at the firm level.
Lubrication characteristics of double involute gears under the tribo-dynamic condition
Authors: Yin Zhaoming , Fan Zhimin
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the lubrication characteristics of double involute gear (DIG), compare its lubrication differences under quasi-static and tribo-dynamic conditions and study the influence of different factors on its lubrication characteristics under the tribo-dynamic condition.

Design/methodology/approach

According to the meshing characteristics of DIG and elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) theory, a tribo-dynamic model of DIG is established based on the “subsection method.” The Runge-Kutta method and the multigrid method are integrated to solve the model, and the dynamic analytical model of lubricating oil is established in the iterative solution.

Findings

The load and the transmission error fluctuate obviously under the tribo-dynamic condition, which is not conducive to the lubrication of DIG. The influence of rotational speeds and torque on the lubrication properties of DIG has obvious differences under tribo-dynamic and quasi-static conditions.

Originality/value

This research can provide a theoretical basis for improving the lubrication performance, reducing the loss of mechanical efficiency and improving the bearing capacity and service life of DIG.
Preparing antiracist educators through transformative teacher education
Authors: Waddell Jennifer H. , Poos Bradley , Caruthers Loyce E.
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This paper reports the findings of a study examining the impact of one teacher preparation program on the current practices of its graduates and documents the ways the program focused on equity and social justice in preparing educators who see themselves as agents for transforming schools. This paper aims to identify program elements that can be transformative in the preparation of antiracist teachers.

Design/methodology/approach

This study examined the stories of nine program alumni who shared preservice education experiences and reflections on current practices. Interview data, videotaped and transcribed verbatim, included the teachers’ reflections and perceptions of their preparation program and descriptions of current practices and areas to which they each attribute success as educators. Data were analyzed through inductive analysis.

Findings

Two thematic categories were identified: pedagogical experiences and foundational experiences. Pedagogical experiences were field experiences across multiple districts and schools, preparation for culturally relevant pedagogy and focus on building relationships with students and families. Foundational experiences included mindsets of examining self, conversations over time and truths about racism and inequity.

Practical implications

This study has clear implications for how programs prepare teachers for antiracism, social justice and educational equity. This paper should inform policy and practice in teacher education.

Originality/value

This study offers hope and guidance for teacher preparation programs and demonstrates that teacher education can and must be a leading contributor to an antiracist society.
Biases in risk assessments under EU anti-money laundering law – evidence of the better-than-average effect from Germany
Authors: Haffke Lars
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Anti-money laundering (AML) obligations follow a risk-based approach, making their extent subject to the degree of AML risk. Money Laundering Reporting Officers (MLROs) must constantly assess risks, for example, by conducting annual risk assessments of the company. The purpose of this paper is to analyse whether MLROs’ risk assessments are biased in form of a better-than-average (BTA) effect, meaning whether they favourably assess their own company’s risk compared to that of the average competitor. Additionally, MLROs’ general risk assessment capabilities are researched.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey of MLROs of German companies was conducted (n = 228). It tests for a BTA effect in participants’ risk assessments of their own company as well as for errors in risk assessments of other industries.

Findings

MLROs’ risk assessments are biased by a BTA effect across all industries. They view their own company’s risk to be below that of the average competitor. Additionally, MLROs are not able to correctly assess industries’ AML risks compared to the national risk assessment. Risks were especially underestimated for high-risk industries. Biases were partially found to be higher among MLROs from the non-financial sector.

Practical implications

Risk-based AML measures are likely to be at least partially ineffective, calling the risk-based approach into question. Regular trainings of MLROs need to include awareness for biases in risk assessments. A more stringent and effective supervision, especially in the non-financial sector, is called for.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this paper is the first to show that a BTA effect exists among MLROs.
Implementation of Management 3.0: its consistency and conditional factors
Authors: Piwowar-Sulej Katarzyna , Sołtysik Mariusz , Różycka-Antkowiak Justyna Łucja
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Rapid changes in the business environment and the accelerating dynamics and increasing complexity shaping the functioning of organizations have given rise to modern concepts of people management. The Management 3.0 (M3.0) concept was developed based on agile project management concept; however, it can be implemented not only in projects, but also in the entire organization. It consists of six pillars such as: energizing people, empowering teams, aligning constraints, developing competencies, growing structure, and improving everything. The paper aims to present the relationships between the level of implementation of the above-presented pillars and such variables as the scope of use of agile project management methodologies, and project managers' (PMs) as well as HR practitioners' knowledge in this area.

Design/methodology/approach

Members of PMI and IPMA representing 34 companies located in Poland took part in the research which was based on a CAWI method.

Findings

Research shows that the level of M3.0 implementation – in terms of its six pillars – is internally consistent but mostly on a “defined” level. No correlation was observed between the implementation of M3.0 and the frequency with which agile project management methodology is applied. On the other hand, there is a strong correlation between the level of PMs' knowledge and the implementation of some of the M3.0 pillars. HR specialists' knowledge in the field of M3.0 is not associated with organizational advances in the implementation of M3.0.

Originality/value

As the first research project in the area of M3.0, this study proposes practical implications as well as topics which require further empirical exploration.
When a backer is an expropriator: pitfalls in the consumer protection mechanism for off-plan building sales in Vietnamese law
Authors: Thanh Doan Hai , Thi Phuong Doan Diep , Minh Luu Sang
Published: May 2022

Purpose

To motivate investments in housing projects, the state may allow private entities to mobilize capital through selling off-plan buildings and use proceeds to complete the project. The state senses the risks for consumers in these projects: frauds certainly occur. To safeguard consumers’ interests, the Vietnamese Government requires developers to obtain a bank's refund guarantee to sell off-plan. This paper aims to point out how consumers are marginalized due to the mechanism (mechanisms) dedicated to protecting them.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors review the legal regulations in Vietnam, contracts in transactions on which they have given legal consultation (the authors leave the information anonymous for privacy issues), and real disputes exposed by newspapers re: off-plan sales.

Findings

This paper argues that the measure fails for two reasons. First, there are many weaknesses allowing banks to avoid this mechanism. Second, banks lend to developers, and as such, play the role of a secured creditor. In these situations, there is a conflict of interest between the bank's roles and between the bank and consumers. Moreover, Vietnamese law, by endowing banks the privilege of seizing and obtaining possession of collaterals, may put aside consumers' interests.

Originality/value

Bank's refund guarantee’ is a recent initiative of the Vietnamese Government, offered to safeguard consumers’ interests in off-plan sales. Issues arising thereupon have not yet been fully exposed, especially, in conjunction with a broad view of the Vietnamese legal system. The analysis and critiques offered by this study may have policy implications for other jurisdictions as well.
Mental conversion: a customer service strategy impacting shopping experiences
Authors: Meng Yan , Gould Stephen J. , Song Lei , Chang Hua , Vaziri Shiva
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study aims to provide a practical strategy for customer service and salesforce from the basis of behavioral economics. When customers thought they missed a discount but eventually could get the deal, they perceived that they had obtained more value. This research defines such a conversion effect between gain and loss accounts, demonstrates its impact in marketing settings and provides the salesforce a tactic to increase sales and quality of customer service to improve the consumer experience in the social customer journey.

Design/methodology/approach

Three experiments were conducted in a behavioral lab and online setting. Participants were randomly assigned to 2 (gain vs loss) × 2 (converted vs simple) between-subjects designs in the first two experiments and 2 (gain vs loss) × 2 (converted vs simple) × 2 (high price vs low price) in the third experiment. Analysis of variance was conducted to analyze the data. Mediation and moderation analyses were also conducted to identify the mediator and moderator in the model.

Findings

The conversion between gain and loss mental accounts exists, and the converted gains are more likely to lead consumers to make purchases with a once-lost discount than simple gains. This conversion effect is mediated by consumers’ implemental mindset activated by the conversion and moderated by price.

Originality/value

This research shows that mental accounts of gains and losses can be dynamically converted to one another. It provides a managerial tactic for salesforces and customer service to lead consumers to make a purchase decision right away. This is especially important when they aim to enhance the consumer experience in the social customer journey.
Big data analysis for decision-making processes: challenges and opportunities for the management of health-care organizations
Authors: Fanelli Simone , Pratici Lorenzo , Salvatore Fiorella Pia , Donelli Chiara Carolina , Zangrandi Antonello
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study aims to provide a picture of the current state of art in the use of big data for decision-making processes for the management of health-care organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review was carried out. The research uses two analyses: descriptive analysis, describing the evolution of citations; keywords; and the ten most influential papers, and bibliometric analysis, for content evaluation, for which a cluster analysis was performed.

Findings

A total of 48 articles were selected for bibliographic coupling out of an initial sample of more than 5,000 papers. Of the 48 articles, 29 are linked on the basis of their bibliography. Clustering the 29 articles on the basis of actual content, four research areas emerged: quality of care, quality of service, crisis management and data management.

Originality/value

Health-care organizations believe strongly that big data can become the most effective tool for correctly influencing the decision-making processes. Thus, more and more organizations continue to invest in big data analytics, and the literature on this topic has expanded rapidly. This study seeks to provide a comprehensive picture of the different streams of literature existing, together with gaps in research and future perspectives. The literature is mature enough for an analysis to be made and provide managers with useful insights on opportunities, criticisms and perspectives on the use of big data for health-care organizations. However, to date, there is no comprehensive literature review on the big data analysis in health care. Furthermore, as big data is a “sexy catchphrase,” more clarity on its usage may be needed. It represents an important tool to be investigated and its great potential is often yet to be discovered. This study thus sheds light on emerging issues and suggests further research that may be needed.
The effects of organizational trust and empowering leadership on group conflict: psychological safety as a mediator
Authors: Joo Baek-Kyoo (Brian) , Yoon So Kyum , Galbraith Diane
Published: May 2022

Purpose

In a knowledge-based economy, employees’ perception of psychological safety in their wok unit is critical for group conflict. The purpose of this study is to investigate the mediating role of psychological safety between the predictors (i.e. organizational trust and empowering leadership) and the outcome variable, group conflict.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was drawn from 633 employees from a global automobile company headquartered in South Korea. Construct validity of the measurement model was examined using a confirmatory factor analysis. The hypothesized model was tested by a structural equation modeling and the bootstrap analysis.

Findings

Organizational trust and empowering leadership accounted for 68% of the variance in employees’ psychological safety. The three antecedents (i.e. organizational trust, empowering leadership and psychological safety) explained 20% of the variance in group conflicts. Psychological safety significantly and fully mediated the relationship between organizational trust and group conflict and the relationship between empowering leadership and group conflict.

Practical implications

Human resources and organization development professionals can help employees feel more psychologically safe in an organization by developing empowering leaders and making more trustworthy organizational culture. When employees perceive a high level of psychological safety, they are likely to feel less conflict in their team.

Originality/value

This study examined the antecedents and consequences of psychological safety of knowledge workers in a non-Western cultural context. Psychological safety played a pivotal role as a mediator. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study that empirically found the direct link between organizational trust and psychological safety and the relationship between empowerment leadership and psychological safety.
The COVID-19 pandemic impact on the global tourism industry SMEs: a human capital development perspective
Authors: Faeni Dewi Puspaningtyas , Puspitaningtyas Faeni Ratih , Alden Riyadh Hosam , Yuliansyah Yuliansyah
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a model for increasing human capital competitiveness in the tourism sector in emerging economies. Using Indonesia as an example, the authors study the extent of the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact and the sector’s resilience.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected using a survey of 199 tourism workers in Magelang city in Central Java Island. The data was analyzed using structural equation model with Smart PLS.

Findings

The results confirm that social and human capital influence business success. Furthermore, innovation moderates the influence of human capital and social capital on business success.

Originality/value

By conducting a primary survey with the tourism workers and those who work and interact with the tourism industry in Indonesia, the authors show how a promising approach to creating and sharing agile knowledge can enhance the tourism industry micro, small and medium enterprises in emerging economies during and post-COVID-19 pandemic and after.
Complex management of lentigo maligna in the setting of chrysiasis, argyriasis, and tattoo using in vivo reflectance confocal microscopy
Authors: Martin Arthur , Gouveia Bruna Melhoranse , Rawson Robert , Guitera Pascale
Published: May 2022

Lentigo maligna (LM) can be difficult to diagnose and recurrence is not uncommon. In vivo reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) improves diagnostic accuracy of LM. LM can be difficult to discern from coexistent metal‐induced cutaneous hyperpigmentation (MICH). We are the first to describe three cases of LM associated with gold, silver, and metal oxide (from tattoos) and the RCM findings, respectively. The images obtained via RCM were analyzed by two RCM experts, and histopathology reviewed by a dermatopathologist. MICH under RCM appeared as intensely hyperreflective dots (when found freely) or clusters of variable sizes (when engulfed by macrophages) limited to the dermis. Dermal dendritic cells and melanophages were also found in association but distinct from the confluence of dendritic cells at the dermoepidermal junction observed in LM. We showed longitudinal changes within the dermis in MICH, not previously reported, where these hyperreflective dots congregate into clusters. RCM was able to distinguish the features of LM from MICH, delineate treatment margins, and monitor for recurrence.
Emergent Spaces of Emergency Claims: Possibilities and Contestation in a National Climate Emergency Declaration
Authors: Cretney Raven , Nissen Sylvia
Published: May 2022

Climate emergency declarations have become a prominent mechanism within the environmental movement to emphasise the urgency of the climate crisis, with this activism prompting numerous declarations from governments. Embedded in these declarations are claims of emergency, which hold representations of how different actors make sense of the present political moment and imagine trajectories of change. We analyse the contested meanings of public emergency claims made by activists and the state in Aotearoa New Zealand’s national climate emergency declaration. Identifying three framings of emergency as an objective truth, an activating property, and a responsibility, our analysis suggests emergency declarations hold ambiguous potential for more radical action on climate change. While opening political space on what emergency means, we argue emergency claims hold risks of depoliticising climate politics and re‐embedding the neoliberal status quo. Emergency claims also contain tensions in imaginaries of transformation, suggesting the importance of contestation within climate emergency declarations.
Endometriosis in women undergoing ovarian tissue transplantation due to premature menopause after gonadotoxic treatment or spontaneous premature ovarian failure
Authors: Lotz Laura , Dietl Anna , Hoffmann Inge , Müller Anrdreas , Burghaus Stefanie , Beckmann Matthias Wilhelm , Dittrich Ralf
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Cryopreservation of ovarian tissue with subsequent transplantation is an efficient option for restoring fertility in women at risk of premature ovarian failure. The association between infertility and endometriosis is well recognized. Although endometriosis usually ends with the onset of natural or iatrogen menopause due to declining estrogen levels, endometriosis can in rare cases occur after menopause. This study aims to investigate women with premature menopause who were diagnosed with endometriosis during laparoscopy for ovarian tissue transplantation, and to address the questions of how endometriotic lesions after cytotoxic treatment and premature menopause might be explained, whether endometriosis affects pregnancy rates, and whether there is an association between endometriosis and the original cancer.

Material and Methods

Seventeen patients who had undergone ovarian tissue transplantation to restore their fertility and who were diagnosed with endometriosis during transplantation were included in this retrospective study. The endometriosis foci were completely removed and ovarian tissue was transplanted into the pelvic peritoneum. Preexisting conditions, use of hormonal preparations, endometriosis stage pain assessment, as well as pregnancy and live birth rate were evaluated.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 29.5 ± 6.3 years (range 14–39) at the time of ovarian tissue harvest and 34.6 ± 4.3 years (range 28–40) at transplantation. Prior to transplantation, four patients had taken hormone replacement therapy, four women oral contraceptives and two patients’ tamoxifen. Twelve women had stage I endometriosis and five stage II endometrioses according to the rASRM classification. Four patients reported dysmenorrhea. None of the women complained of general pelvic pain or dyspareunia. The pregnancy rate in the study population was 41.2%, with a live birth rate of 35.3%. The pregnancies occurred in three cases after spontaneous conception, in four women after a natural cycle IVF/ICSI.

Conclusions

This study highlights the under‐researched association between endometriosis in women entering premature or early menopause either after gonadotoxic treatment or due to primary ovarian insufficiency. As more and more patients seek to have their cryopreserved ovarian tissue transplanted to fulfill their desire to have children, specialists will inevitably encounter women with this condition.
Entry decision of a vertically integrated foreign firm with downstream subsidization and upstream privatization
Authors: Zhang Chuyuan , Lee Sang‐Ho
Published: May 2022

This study considers a vertical structure model in which an upstream state‐owned enterprise (SOE) and a downstream domestic firm compete with a vertically integrated foreign firm (VIFF). We consider the cost‐inefficiency of the SOE and examine the entry decisions of a VIFF under downstream subsidization. We find that without upstream privatization, the VIFF's entry decision might not be socially desirable unless it enters both markets and the cost inefficiency is intermediate. Additionally, a policy to reduce the cost inefficiency might cause a drastic welfare increase or loss when the VIFF changes its entry decision. We then examine upstream privatization and show that a substantial improvement in cost efficiency can increase welfare with privatization. When the SOE maximizes welfare, however, lesser (greater) cost efficiency improvement is necessary to increase welfare with privatization if the ex‐ante cost inefficiency is high (low).
Software development to optimize the minimal detectable difference in human airway images captured using optical coherence tomography
Authors: Peters Carli M. , Peters Robert C. , Lee Anthony D. , Lane Pierre , Lam Stephen , Sin Don D. , McKenzie Donald C. , Sheel A. William
Published: May 2022

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an imaging methodology that can be used to assess human airways. OCT avoids the harmful effects of ionizing radiation and has a high spatial resolution making it well suited for imaging the structure of small airways. Analysis of OCT airway images has typically been performed manually by tracing the airway with a relatively high coefficient of variation. The purpose of this study was to develop an analysis tool to reduce the inter‐ and intra‐observer reproducibility of OCT and improve the ability to detect differences in airways. OCT images from healthy, young human volunteers were used to develop and test the OCT software. Measurement software was developed to allow the conversion of the original image into a grayscale image and was followed by an enhancement operation to brighten the image, and contour measurement. A total of 140 OCT images, 70 small (<2 mm) and 70 medium (2–4 mm) sized airways were analyzed. The inter‐ and intraobserver reproducibility of airway measurements ranged for strong to very strong in the small‐sized airways. For medium‐sized airways the reproducibility was considered moderate. Bland‐Altman bias was low between observers and observations for all measures. The minimal detectable differences in the airway measurements with our semi‐automated software were lower relative to manual tracing in medium‐sized airways. Our software improves the ability to perform quantitative OCT analysis and may help to quantify the extent of airway remodelling in respiratory disease or elite athletes in future studies.
Nomogram for stratifying patients with lifelong premature ejaculation before using the PHQ‐9: An observational study
Authors: Hou Guangdong , Gao Ming , Zheng Yu , Hou Niuniu , Zhang Siyan , Sun Jianhua , Jannini Tommaso B. , Zhang Lei , Dun Xinlong , Wang Fuli , Jannini Emmanuele A. , Yuan Jianlin
Published: May 2022

Objective

A PHQ‐9 score ≥ 15, represented as PHQ‐9+, indicates major depressive disorder (MDD). On using PHQ‐9, the psychological burden of several patients with lifelong premature ejaculation (LPE) gets aggravated, which may lead to LPE development. We aim to construct a nomogram for predicting the individual risk of PHQ‐9+ in patients with LPE and discerning those with low risks, who should avoid the PHQ‐9.

Methods

The nomogram was constructed by analysing data of 802 patients from Xijing Hospital and Northwest Women's & Children's Hospital. The LASSO and multivariable logistic regressions were used to identify independent predictors of PHQ‐9+, used for developing the nomogram. The discrimination, calibration and clinical usefulness of the nomogram were assessed in the derivation cohort and an independent validation cohort, which was composed of 505 prospectively enrolled patients from Daxing Hospital and Xijing Hospital.

Results

The duration of PE, IELT, a history of PE exacerbation, IIEF‐5 score, urinary frequency and physical pain score were identified as independent predictors. The nomogram showed excellent calibration, discrimination and clinical usefulness in the derivation and validation cohorts, with a predictive accuracy of 0.781 and 0.763, respectively. Based on this nomogram, patients were divided into not recommended, recommended and strongly recommended PHQ‐9 filling groups, with PHQ‐9+ rates of 3.5%, 9.3% and 30.7%, respectively.

Conclusion

A nomogram to discern LPE patients with low risks of PHQ‐9+ was established. This tool can increase the positivity of MDD screening and may improve the therapeutic outcomes of those in the low‐risk group.
Myrmecochorous plants and their ant seed dispersers through successional stages in temperate cove forests
Authors: Schultz Mary , Warren Robert J. , Costa James , Collins Beverly , Bradford Mark
Published: May 2022

Anthropogenic disturbance can decrease woodland diversity in the species‐rich herbaceous layer of eastern deciduous forests, and ant‐dispersed (myrmecochorous) plants may be particularly affected due to their limited ability to re‐colonise secondary forests.

Consequently, we predicted that myrmecochorous plants and their keystone seed‐dispersing ants would increase with time since the last disturbance, as reflected by young, middle or mature forest successional stage. Specifically, we hypothesized that myrmecochore abundance and richness would be relatively lowest in the youngest forests, moderate in middle‐aged forests and highest in mature forests. We also hypothesized that experimentally introducing ant bait in a regular pattern, as might be expected from intact species‐rich myrmecochore communities, would elicit greater ant foraging interest than intermittent baiting, as might be expected in recently disturbed depauperate myrmecochore communities.

We found the highest myrmecochore plant abundance in mature forests, but we found the same for herbaceous plants overall. Moreover, regular and intermittent bait offerings elicited similar overall ant responses. The observational results suggested that myrmecochorous plants respond to forest successional stage as do other woodland plants, and our experimental results suggest that disrupted seed delivery by myrmecochores did not affect Aphaenogaster abundance or foraging behaviour.

As such, the myrmecochore communities studied here appeared as resilient as other woodland herbs, and seed‐dispersing ants did not appear dependent on myrmecochore plant communities. Indeed, given the relatively high myrmecochore richness and abundance across our study sites, forest type (e.g., rich cove forest) might better predict myrmecochore success than successional stage.
Whole‐brain metabolic pattern analysis in patients with anti‐leucine‐rich glioma‐inactivated 1 (LGI1) encephalitis
Authors: Mo Jiajie , Dong Wenyu , Cui Tao , Chen Chao , Shi Weixiong , Hu Wenhan , Zhang Chao , Wang Xiu , Zhang Kai , Shao Xiaoqiu
Published: May 2022

Background and purpose

Faciobrachial dystonic seizures (FBDS) and hyponatremia are the distinct clinical features of autoimmune encephalitis (AE) caused by antibodies against leucine‐rich glioma‐inactivated 1 (LGI1). The present study aims to explore the pathophysiological patterns and neural mechanisms underlying these symptoms.

Methods

We included 30 patients with anti‐LGI1 AE and 30 controls from a retrospective observational cohort. Whole‐brain metabolic pattern analysis was performed to assess the pathological network of anti‐LGI1 AE, as well as the symptom networks associated with FBDS. Logistic regression was applied to explore independent predictors of FBDS. Finally, we used a multiple regression model to investigate the hyponatremia‐associated brain network and its effect on serum sodium levels.

Results

The pathological network of anti‐LGI1 AE involved hypermetabolism in the cerebellum, subcortical structures and Rolandic area, as well as hypometabolism in the medial prefrontal cortex. The symptom network of FBDS included hypometabolism in the cerebellum and Rolandic area (pFDR <0.05). Hypometabolism in the cerebellum was an independent predictor of FBDS (p < 0.001). Hyponatremia‐associated network highlighted a negative effect on the caudate nucleus, frontal and temporal white matter. The metabolism of the hypothalamus was negatively associated with (Pearson's R = −0.180, p = 0.342), while not the independent predictor for serum sodium level (path c’ = −7.238, 95% confidence interval = −30.947 to 16.472).

Conclusions

Our results provide insights into the whole‐brain metabolic patterns of patients with anti‐LGI1 AE, including the symptom network associated with FBDS and the hyponatremia‐associated brain network. The findings help us to understand the neural mechanisms underlying anti‐LGI1 AE and to evaluate the progress of this disease.
Big picture initiatives in bleeding disorders
Authors: Rauch Antoine , Valentino Leonard A. , Mills Kevin , Witkop Michelle L. , Santaella Maria E. , DiMichele Donna , Recht Michael , Susen Sophie
Published: May 2022

Introduction

The inherited bleeding disorders (IBD) community has witnessed significant therapeutic advances recently, yet important gaps persist, particularly for those with rare disorders and historically underserved populations.

Aims

To create a national research blueprint agenda, led by the National Hemophilia Foundation (NHF), enhancing patient‐centric principles, accelerate research progress and address important gaps in care.

To review critical gaps that remain to be addressed in women with IBDs, who face specific bleeding challenges.

Methods

The NHF research blueprint research agenda was defined by input from across the community, including caregivers and patients who are considered subject matter experts of their IBD, research leaders, allied health professionals and specialists, and representatives of the biopharmaceutical industry. In addition, two medical experts in the field of IBDs performed a comprehensive review to address the knowledge gaps in women with IBDs.

Results

Two foundational principles of the NHF blueprint are: (1) it must deliver on key issues that significantly impact the lives of those affected by IBDs, and (2) the priorities defined are relevant and actionable aimed to achieve health equity among all those affected by IBDs. A multidisciplinary approach is necessary for an optimal management of puberty, transition to adulthood and pregnancy. Even if strict guidelines are followed, recent studies show that women with IBDs are still facing a high burden.

Conclusion

NHF blueprint will be issued in 2022. A specific research agenda is needed in women with IBDs to further improve their management and quality of life.
Into a brave new world: Haemophilia A & von Willebrand Disease Surgery with novel therapies
Authors: Harrison Catherine , Chase Jaime , Fawcett Kathy , Shoemark Robyn , Valderrama Yadira
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Haemophilia & von Willebrand disease are both recognised inherited bleeding disorders. With increased access to highly efficient and safe replacement and novel therapies, management of surgical interventions in this group can be safely managed by experienced multidisciplinary teams.

Aim

To review the evidence for managing surgery in the era of novel therapies.

Method

We explore four cases and establish the role of the clinical nurse specialist within the surgical pathway.

Results

All of these cases evidence the continued important role of both the multidisciplinary planning prior to any surgical interventions in people with bleeding disorders and the key role of the Nurse Specialist in ensuring this plan is then implemented. Key focuses of communication with all parties involved in the patient journey, performing education for the patient, family and wider healthcare team about the underlying bleeding disorder and the importance of time critical medicines being given on time is essential.

Conclusion

These cases demonstrate that individuals with bleeding disorders are at risk of developing other rare conditions alongside their life long condition, in addition to comorbidities associated with ageing. Evidence for rare plus rare is likely to be minimal as demonstrated within the cases, and recognition of how to reach out to international peers in the field is important. Sharing complex case management at national & international meetings and in publication has never been so important.
Diagnosis of rare bleeding disorders
Authors: Meijer Karina , van Heerde Waander , Gomez Keith
Published: May 2022

Rare bleeding disorders result in significant morbidity but are globally underdiagnosed. Advances in genomic testing and specialist laboratory assays have greatly increased the diagnostic armamentarium. This has resulted in the discovery of new genetic causes for rare diseases and a better understanding of the underlying molecular pathology.
Potential drug–drug interactions between antiretroviral drugs and comedications, including dietary supplements, among people living with HIV: A clinical survey
Authors: Tinggaard Michaela , David Kim Peter , Gerstoft Jan , Hansen Ann‐Brit Eg , Kirk Ole , Lebech Anne‐Mette , Lindhardt Bjarne Ørskov , Rose Michala Vaaben , Ryom Lene , Weis Nina , Benfield Thomas
Published: May 2022

Objective

Age‐related comorbidities, polypharmacy and thereby the risk of potential drug–drug interactions (PDDIs) among people living with HIV (PLWH) have increased over the years. We estimated the prevalence of comedications, including dietary supplements, and evaluated PDDIs among PLWH receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Denmark in an outpatient setting.

Methods

Information on prescription medication, over‐the‐counter medication and dietary supplements was obtained from adult PLWH receiving ART attending two outpatient clinics in Denmark. The PDDIs were identified using the University of Liverpool's drug interaction database. Associations between PDDIs and relevant variables were compared using logistic regression models.

Results

A total of 337 PLWH receiving ART with a median age of 53 years (interquartile range: 45–61) were included; 77% were male and 96% had a HIV‐RNA viral load < 50 copies/mL. Twenty‐six per cent of participants received five or more comedications and 56% consumed dietary supplements. Co‐administration of drugs requiring dose adjustment or monitoring was identified in the medication lists of 52% of participants, and 4.5% were on drugs that should not be co‐administered. Male sex [odds ratio (OR) = 1.9, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.0–3.4], being on a protease inhibitor (OR = 4.3, 95% CI: 1.9–9.7), receiving five or more comedications (OR = 3.3, 95% CI: 1.5–7.2), taking over‐the‐counter medications (OR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.1–3.3) and dietary supplements (OR = 2.0, 95% CI: 1.2–3.3) were independent predictors of PDDIs.

Conclusion

Potential drug–drug interactions were common among our study population Our study confirms that polypharmacy and being on a protease inhibitor‐based regimen increase the risk of PDDIs considerably and highlights the importance of questioning PLWH about dietary supplement intake.
An extract of Leontopodium alpinum inhibits catagen development ex vivo and increases hair density in vivo
Authors: Campiche Remo , Le Riche Alizée , Edelkamp Janin , Botello Alfonso Fernandez , Martin Emmanuel , Gempeler Mathias , Bertolini Marta
Published: May 2022

Objectives

Hair loss and reduction in hair volume are hallmarks of hair disorders, such as telogen effluvium, or male or female pattern hair loss, and hair ageing, which can cause severe distress in both men and women. Common anti‐hair loss drugs carry some side effects; therefore, novel, safer approaches targeting milder phenotypes are highly advocated. In this context, we investigated an extract of the alpine plant Edelweiss, Leontopodium alpinum var. Helvetia, for its ability to modulate hair follicle (HF) growth ex vivo and inhibit hair loss while increasing hair regeneration in vivo.

Methods

Human amputated HFs were microdissected from three donors, two women and one man, and cultured ex vivo for 6 days. After treatment with 0.001% Edelweiss extract (EWDE), we investigated hair shaft production and anagen/catagen conversion, and measured known parameters associated with hair growth, that is hair matrix keratinocyte proliferation and apoptosis, dermal papilla inductivity, and growth factors, by quantitative (immuno)histomorphometry. To assess the anti‐hair loss potential of the alpine plant compound, we performed a randomized, placebo‐controlled human study enrolling Caucasian women and men, aged 18 to 65 years, with normal hair loss. After 5 months’ daily use of an extract containing leave‐on serum, we analysed hair density and anagen‐to‐catagen/telogen ratio by the Trichogram analysis.

Results

Our results revealed a significant prolongation in the anagen phase in HFs treated with 0.001% Edelweiss, as indicated by an increase in HFs remaining in anagen and a significant decrease in hair cycle score. In line with this effect, EWDE significantly stimulated hair matrix (HM) keratinocyte proliferation, and dermal papilla inductivity, as shown by a significant up‐regulation of versican expression and alkaline phosphatase activity, and a tendential increase in FGF7 immunoreactivity in the dermal papilla of all HFs or only anagen VI HFs. Corroborating the ex vivo results, we observed a significant increase in growing hair shaft numbers (hair density) after treatment with Edelweiss extract formulation, and a tendential up‐regulation in the anagen‐to‐catagen/telogen ratio.

Conclusions

We show here, through several lines of evidence, that the selected extract of the alpine plant Leontopodium alpinum var Helvetia (Edelweiss) inhibits premature catagen induction, possibly by stimulating dermal papilla inductivity. It is therefore worth exploiting this extract clinically as an anti‐hair loss agent, both for preventing ageing‐associated hair shedding and as an adjuvant therapy for hair loss disorders.
Prevalence of Rh and K phenotypes among blood donors from different ethnicities in Samtah (Southwestern Region) Saudi Arabia
Authors: Hamali Hassan A. , Madkhali Maymoon M. , Dobie Gasim , Madkhali Aymen M. , Madkhali Basem , Hummadi Yahia , Meshi Abdullah , Akhter Mohammad S. , Mobarki Abdullah A. , Saboor Muhammad
Published: May 2022

Introduction: Rh and Kell blood group systems are amongst the most important blood group systems; being highly immunogenic after ABO system. The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequencies of Rh antigens, haplotypes and K antigen among blood donors belonging to various ethnicities in Samtah, Jazan, Saudi Arabia.

Methods: This study was conducted during January 2019 and August 2020 at Samtah General Hospital, Samtah. Records of all blood donors recruited during this period were included for data acquisition. A total of 4977 blood donors’ records were reviewed and data were analysed. A total of 3863 donors’ results were considered in the final analysis.

Results: In comparison to Saudi blood donors, C antigen was less frequent in Sudanese donors (69.7% and 34.0%), the c antigen was less frequent in Indian (79.2% and 59.3%) and Philippine (79.2% and 40.0%) donors and more frequent in Sudanese (79.2% and 97.9%) donors, the E antigen was less frequent in Yemini (27.0% and 19.5%) and the e antigen was more frequent in Yemini (96.7% and 99.2%) donors. The DcE haplotype was less frequent (3.1% and 0.7%) and the ce haplotype was more frequent (4.3% and 7.6%) in Yemini donors. The K antigen was less frequent in Pakistani (11.9% and 4.1%; p = .041) and Indian (11.9% and 1.9%; p = .023) donors.

Conclusion: Rh and K antigens showed marked variations in their frequencies among blood donors of different ethnicities. Utilization of blood from various ethnicities warrant extended phenotyping of Rh and K antigens to avoid the risk of alloimmunization in multiply transfused patients.
Group‐urotherapy for children with complex elimination disorder: An Australian study
Authors: Peck Blake , Terry Daniel , Martin Benita , Matthews Belinda , Green Andrea
Published: May 2022

Elimination disorders are common in children and are associated with increased levels of psychological distress for both the child and their family. Despite successful treatments for elimination disorders, 30% of children do not respond to standard treatments to achieve continence. In these cases, a Urinary and Faecal Incontinence Training Program for Children and Adolescents (UFITPCA) has been established as an adjunct to existing therapy. The aim of the study is to explore the experiences of children who participated in the program. A qualitative design was employed with female children, aged 7–8 years, (n = 4) who participated in the UFITPCA program participated in a 60‐min focus group interview. The parents of the children (n = 4) were also interviewed. Data was collected at the end of the 9‐week program and analysed to identify themes that encompassed the experiences of the UFITPCA program and associated outcomes amongst both the children and their parents. Three central themes were emerged from the data, which included: Make it Stop, I'm not Alone, and Look at what I can do now. These findings were encapsulated by the desperation and frustration of children and parents prior to commencing the program; the widespread positive implications for the children's wellbeing from having engaged in a program with others just like them, and their sense of satisfaction of putting their newfound knowledge into practice. Both children and parents recognized a change in their child's overall sense of wellbeing and parents identified that their children felt more in control of symptoms and how they responded when symptoms arose. The children experienced an increase in their acceptance and self‐efficacy of their symptoms.
COVID‐19 and the supply and demand for Registered Nurses
Authors: Kovner Christine
Published: May 2022

There are concerns that the future balance between the supply and demand for nurses will result in major nursing shortages around the world. Some think that nurses are leaving nursing because of the COVID‐19 pandemic. In the United States, nurses may be leaving their jobs, but not nursing. Enrollments in nursing programs have increased. Nurse migration to the United States has decreased. This paper, using examples from the United States mainly, aims to explore the issue of supply of nurses and argues that it is not clear that we will have a worldwide nursing shortage going forward.