bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do brand rumors matter? The role of brand equity and response strategy to brand rumor
Authors: Choi Jihee , Seo Soobin
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate consumer responses to brand rumors and corporate rumor response strategies in the restaurant industry.

Design/methodology/approach

A scenario-based experimental design was used to examine changes in consumers’ brand evaluation depending on level of brand equity and corporate choice of response strategy.

Findings

It was found that the impact of brand rumors on consumer responses is more negative when the restaurant’s brand equity is low compared to when it is high. It was also found that a company's use of active response strategies is more effective in combating brand rumor than a strategy of simple denial.

Practical implications

The findings have significant implications for both academics and practitioners in terms of developing effective response strategies for counteracting brand rumors.

Originality/value

Given the frequency of brand rumors in the restaurant industry and their serious negative impacts, this study extends the existing brand crisis communication literature by demonstrating how consumers respond to a rumor and the effectiveness of different corporate rumor response strategies.
Comparison of numerical methods in estimating Weibull parameters to install a sustainable wind farm in mount Bamboutos, Cameroon
Authors: Jeutho Gouajio Marinette , Tiam Kapen Pascalin , Yemele David
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the wind energy potential of Mount Bamboutos in Cameroon by comparing nine numerical methods in determining Weibull parameters for the installation of a sustainable wind farm.

Design/methodology/approach

By using statistical analysis, the analysis of shape and scale parameters, the estimation of the available wind power density and wind direction frequency distributions, the objective of this paper is to compare nine numerical methods in estimating Weibull parameters for the installation of a sustainable wind farm in Mount Bamboutos, Cameroon.

Findings

The results suggested that the minimum and maximum values of the standard deviation occurred in the months of May and November 2016, respectively. The graphical method appeared to be the most effective method with the maximum value of variance and minimum values of chi-square and RMSE. The scale factor parameter values indicated that Mount Bamboutos hills were a potential site for electricity generation. The analysis of wind power density showed that it reached the maximum and minimum values in February and September, respectively. The wind direction frequency distributions showed that the prevailing wind directions were North-East.

Originality/value

The wind energy potential of Mount Bamboutos in Cameroon was performed by using nine numerical methods. Therefore, it could be effective to have a prediction model for the wind speed profile. The analysis of wind power density showed that it reached the maximum and minimum values in February and September, respectively. The wind direction frequency distributions showed that the prevailing wind directions were North-East.
The impact of digitalization and inter-organizational technological activities on supplier opportunism: the moderating role of relational ties
Authors: Yang Lu , Huo Baofeng , Tian Min , Han Zhaojun
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Digitalization encourages the manufacturer to engage in inter-organizational technological activities (i.e. supplier IT integration and supply visibility) with its major supplier, which influences supply chain (SC) governance. This study tests a moderated mediation model that considers supplier IT integration and supply visibility as mediators between supply-side digitalization and supplier opportunism, and relational ties as a moderator in the relationship between inter-organizational technological activities and supplier opportunism.

Design/methodology/approach

Ordinary least square (OLS) regression is used to examine data from 200 firms in China describing their supply chain management (SCM) practices and perceived relationships with their major suppliers.

Findings

Supply-side digitalization is positively related to supplier IT integration and supply visibility. Supply-side digitalization has a positive indirect effect on supplier opportunism through supplier IT integration but a negative indirect effect through supply visibility. Relational ties weaken the positive effect of supplier IT integration and the positive indirect effect of supply-side digitalization on supplier opportunism. Relational ties also weaken the negative effect of supply visibility and the negative indirect effect of supply-side digitalization on supplier opportunism.

Originality/value

This study enriches understanding of SC governance in the digital age by empirically confirming that digital transformation brings both challenges and opportunities to SC governance and by clarifying the interplay of relational governance and technological activities. In addition, this study contributes to the SC digitalization literature by empirically validating the role of digitalization in promoting inter-organizational technological activities, as well as by revealing its potential dark side.
Fashion forecasting: an overview from material culture to industry
Authors: Garcia Clarice Carvalho
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Although writings in the fashion forecasting field often mention the connections between industry and culture, it still requires further clarifications in a context of uncertainty, fast pace changes and a high volume of information. This paper aims to explore fashion as a material culture to discuss forecasting roles in different stages of dialogue between culture and industry.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper explores the cultural aspects of fashion to discuss multiple roles of forecasting and its implications in the fashion system from a multidimensional perspective that interlaces culture and industry in contemporary contexts through a literature review in fashion forecasting and material culture. Recent nonacademic articles were also reviewed in order to highlight fresh perspectives in the field.

Findings

The literature review demonstrates that there are two main lines of reasoning in trend forecasting. First, trend forecasting as a cultural and predictive practice focused on understanding emerging shifts in the culture and translating them to the industry. The second approach considers trend forecasting as a strategic and curatorial practice that not merely predicts consumer's behaviors and preferences but intentionally acts as a filter of all the available possibilities curating and narrowing them down to organize the market around assertive information reducing financial losses risk. This article proposes an integration between the two perspectives – from culture to industry – in a contemporary context where consumers' tastes and preferences have become increasingly diverse, and early diffusion theories can no longer explain fashion spread.

Research limitations/implications

Further investigations of contemporary and potential future trend forecasting roles and aspects could benefit from in-depth interviews and focus groups with industry experts, consumers and academics.

Practical implications

The paper intends to approximate theoretical reflections of fashion as a material culture to the current industry context.

Originality/value

It contributes to the studies of fashion forecasting, providing an overview of its development, roles and objectives, both from the industrial and material culture perspectives, which culminates in a framework that summarizes its intricate mechanisms.
Exploring perceptions of pracademics in an Arab context
Authors: Chaaban Youmen , Sellami Abdellatif , Sawalhi Rania , Elkhouly Marwa
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This study explored the perceptions of Arab professionals toward pracademia and the ways they position themselves as professionals in this field.

Design/methodology/approach

Narrative data were elicited through semi-structured interviews with a total of eighteen pracademics identified for their work in teacher education. Participants included ten professional development (PD) specialists, three university supervisors and five specialists working at the Ministry of Education in Qatar.

Findings

Narrative analysis of the interviews revealed variations in their identity renegotiations, with one group experiencing an emerging pracademic identity and the other group “holding on” to their previous practitioner identities. The narratives further provided insight into Arab pracademics relating to three themes: (1) definitions and roles, (2) knowledge and skills and (3) relationships with others, all of which pertain to pracademic identity construction.

Originality/value

The study contributes to understanding the identity renegotiation of pracademics working in multiple contexts in an Arab setting. Several recommendations are offered to support pracademics' identity renegotiation as a social activity.
Population groups and banks: a comparative study on the survival analysis of Indian commercial banks
Authors: Khanna Sakshi , Gaur Manoj
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Banks in India have started opening their branches in different areas to make sure that their customers get a high-touch experience and they see them as a premier brand. This could be ensured only if the banks show a stable physical presence in the market as well as provide the recent high-tech services to their customers as per the population group. The purpose of this study is to examine the survival rates of the commercial banks in India across the four population groups along with the differences that exist in their survival rates in all the population groups.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis is based on the quarterly data of the number of functioning offices of the commercial banks in India as per the four population groups from March 2006 to December 2019. The survival is estimated using the Kaplan–Meier estimator.

Findings

From the analysis, it is revealed that survival of the banks changes as per the population group. In addition to this, it is found that the survival time of each category of the bank varies in each population group.

Research limitations/implications

This study focuses only on the commercial banks of India; a similar research could be done for other categories of Indian banks. Also, the results would have been different if the variables such as the size of the bank, bank risk, etc. are included and studied. Moreover, this study is done using the Kaplan–Meier estimator, i.e. time-to-event. Further, an advance study could be done after considering the financial parameters of banks using the Cox’s regression model, which explores the relationship between various predictors and the time-to-event.

Social implications

Due to the changes in the preferences of societies, the banks should also adopt different strategies to ensure that their products are understood and accepted by their customers. This will eventually increase the survival rate of the banks.

Originality/value

The work made in this study is completely new.
Social innovation and temporary innovations systems (TIS): insights from nature-based solutions in Europe
Authors: Rhodes Mary Lee , McQuaid Siobhan , Donnelly-Cox Gemma
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the applicability of the complexity-based temporary innovation system (TIS) framework to social innovation and examine the extent to which “nature-based solution” (NBS) projects may be understood through a TIS lens. It is proposed that TIS provides a framework to facilitate multi-actor engagement in social innovation responses to the complexity of wicked problems? The goal is to explore if TIS provides a useful framework for understanding the evolution of social innovation projects and enabling more consciously designed and facilitated social innovation with the potential for large-scale, long-term impact.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses a case study methodology in which 10 NBS projects in 3 European cities are examined and compared to the expected features of a TIS as proposed by anonymised for the review process (2018; 2019)

Findings

Of the 10 NBS projects, only 3 were “TIS-like”, each of which was targeting wicked problems in the city/community. As only one of the remaining 7 projects was aimed at a wicked problem, the authors concluded that the TIS framework may be best suited to those social innovations that address one or more wicked problems and that NBS projects may not display this feature.

Research limitations/implications

The authors conclude with a reflection on theoretical insights arising from applying the TIS framework to NBS in particular, and social innovation generally – and proposes the next steps in developing the TIS framework in relation to social innovation.

Originality/value

This paper applies a new complexity framework to empirical data that have not been examined previously. This analysis contributes to the development of a new framework for designing and analysing complex social innovation initiatives and challenges existing theories presenting NBSs as addressing complex “wicked” problems.
Effect of microwave operating power and reflow time on the microstructure and tensile properties of Sn–3.0Ag–0.5Cu/Cu solder joints
Authors: Said Mardiana , Mohd Nazeri Muhammad Firdaus , Mohd Sharif Nurulakmal , Mohamad Ahmad Azmin
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the morphology and tensile properties of SAC305 solder alloy under the influence of microwave hybrid heating (MHH) for soldering at different microwave parameters.

Design/methodology/approach

Si wafer was used as susceptor in MHH for solder reflow. Microwave operating power for medium and high ranging from 40 to 140 s reflow time was used to investigate their effect on the microstructure and strength of SAC305/Cu solder joints. The morphology and elemental composition of the intermetallic compound (IMC) joint were evaluated on the top surface and cross-sectional view.

Findings

IMC formation transformed from scallop-like to elongated scallop-like structure for medium operating power and scallop-like to planar-like structure for high operating power when exposed to longer reflow time. Compositional and phase analysis confirmed that the observed IMCs consist of Cu6Sn5, Cu3Sn and Ag3Sn. A thinner IMC layer was formed at medium operating power, 80 s (2.4 µm), and high operating power, 40 s (2.5 µm). The ultimate tensile strength at high operating power, 40 s (45.5 MPa), was 44.9% greater than that at medium operating power, 80 s (31.4 MPa).

Originality/value

Microwave parameters with the influence of Si wafer in MHH in soldering have been developed and optimized. A microwave temperature profile was established to select the appropriate parameter for solder reflow. For this MHH soldering method, the higher operating power and shorter reflow time are preferable.
Impact of bilateral investment treaties on foreign direct investment in Africa
Authors: Beri Parfait Bihkongnyuy , Nubong Gabila Fohtung
Published: July 2021

Africa continues to face several challenges that make its share of global foreign direct investment (FDI) to be infinitesimal. These include the prevalence of fragmented investment policies, information asymmetry and high sovereign risk. Bilateral investment treaties (BITs) can help overcome some of these encumbrances by signalling the host country's willingness to protect FDIs. This study hypothesizes that BITs can play an augmentation role and investigates their impact on FDI attraction using data across 48 African countries from 2000 to 2018. In contrast to the previous theoretical and most empirical literature, results based on the two‐step systems generalized method of moments (GMM) show that ratified BITs do not perform a significant role in FDI attraction. Nonetheless, the additional analyses allowed us to make some rather non‐trivial conclusions about the possible effects of BITs concluded with France on FDI. The study recommends that countries should participate in some BITs, although governments need to be cautious when tying their hands with BITs because of susceptibility to damaging litigations that sometimes follow, irrespective of the less than commensurate benefits.
Use of crystalloids and colloids in Europe per year from 2010 to 2019: Protocol for an international descriptive study
Authors: Zellweger Núria M. , Hylander Møller Morten , Ellekjær Karen Louise , Jonsson Andreas Bender , Bruun Svan Kathrine , Siegemund Martin , Perner Anders
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Intravenous (IV) fluids are widely used in everyday clinical practice. In the last two decades, several trials and clinical practice guidelines have been published on the use of different types and dosages of IV fluid. This may have led to a change in clinical practice. Thus, we aim to describe the use of IV crystalloids and colloids in Europe over a 10‐year period.

Methods and analysis

We will collect national or regional data on the use of IV crystalloids and colloids in European hospitals through companies and/or federal medical agencies that provide pharmaceutical data concerning the type and amount of fluids used from January 1st, 2010 to December 31st, 2019. We will use run charts to describe time trends in the use of fluids.

Conclusion

This study will provide insight into the use of IV fluids in Europe between 2010 and 2019. It will enable the observation of changes over time and among the different European countries and regions. This will provide information on the extent to which landmark trials and clinical practice guidelines on fluids have affected clinical practice in Europe regarding the use of IV fluids.
Commentary: Autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability – an evolving landscape of clinical terminology – a commentary on Kehinde et al. (2021)
Authors: Lovell Mark
Published: July 2021

Diagnoses and words used are important. Terminology in autism spectrum disorders and intellectual disabilities is constantly changing in either diagnostic systems or everyday language. There are different pressures for terminological change from clinical, academic and societal perspectives. Clinically, the words are aligning in the 2 major diagnostic systems. This poses dilemmas for those with lived experience as well as professionals as to what words to use and when. An agreed set of words to use for diagnoses will improve understanding, respect and ensure needs are met appropriately.
Pathways towards a sustainable future envisioned by early‐career conservation researchers
Authors: Raatikainen Kaisa J. , Purhonen Jenna , Pohjanmies Tähti , Peura Maiju , Nieminen Eini , Mustajärvi Linda , Helle Ilona , Shennan‐Farpón Yara , Ahti Pauliina A. , Basile Marco , Bernardo Nicola , Bertram Michael G. , Bouarakia Oussama , Brias‐Guinart Aina , Fijen Thijs , Froidevaux Jérémy S. P. , Hemmingmoore Heather , Hocevar Sara , Kendall Liam , Lampinen Jussi , Marjakangas Emma‐Liina , Martin Jake M. , Oomen Rebekah A. , Segre Hila , Sidemo‐Holm William , Silva André P. , Thorbjørnsen Susanna Huneide , Torrents‐Ticó Miquel , Zhang Di , Ziemacki Jasmin
Published: July 2021

Scientists have warned decision‐makers about the severe consequences of the global environmental crisis since the 1970s. Yet ecological degradation continues and little has been done to address climate change. We investigated early‐career conservation researchers' (ECR) perspectives on, and prioritization of, actions furthering sustainability. We conducted a survey (n = 67) and an interactive workshop (n = 35) for ECR attendees of the 5th European Congress of Conservation Biology (2018). Building on these data and discussions, we identified ongoing and forthcoming advances in conservation science. These include increased transdisciplinarity, science communication, advocacy in conservation, and adoption of a transformation‐oriented social–ecological systems approach to research. The respondents and participants had diverse perspectives on how to achieve sustainability. Reformist actions were emphasized as paving the way for more radical changes in the economic system and societal values linked to the environment and inequality. Our findings suggest that achieving sustainability requires a strategy that (1) incorporates the multiplicity of people's views, (2) places a greater value on nature, and (3) encourages systemic transformation across political, social, educational, and economic realms on multiple levels. We introduce a framework for ECRs to inspire their research and practice within conservation science to achieve real change in protecting biological diversity.
Potential alien ranges of European plants will shrink in the future, but less so for already naturalized than for not yet naturalized species
Authors: Pouteau Robin , Biurrun Idoia , Brunel Caroline , Chytrý Milan , Dawson Wayne , Essl Franz , Fristoe Trevor , Haveman Rense , Hobohm Carsten , Jansen Florian , Kreft Holger , Lenoir Jonathan , Lenzner Bernd , Meyer Carsten , Moeslund Jesper Erenskjold , Pergl Jan , Pyšek Petr , Svenning Jens‐Christian , Thuiller Wilfried , Weigelt Patrick , Wohlgemuth Thomas , Yang Qiang , van Kleunen Mark
Published: July 2021

Aims

The rapid increase in the number of species that have naturalized beyond their native range is among the most apparent features of the Anthropocene. How alien species will respond to other processes of future global changes is an emerging concern and remains poorly misunderstood. We therefore ask whether naturalized species will respond to climate and land use change differently than those species not yet naturalized anywhere in the world.

Location

Global.

Methods

We investigated future changes in the potential alien range of vascular plant species endemic to Europe that are either naturalized (n = 272) or not yet naturalized (1,213) outside of Europe. Potential ranges were estimated based on projections of species distribution models using 20 future climate‐change scenarios. We mapped current and future global centres of naturalization risk. We also analysed expected changes in latitudinal, elevational and areal extent of species’ potential alien ranges.

Results

We showed a large potential for more worldwide naturalizations of European plants currently and in the future. The centres of naturalization risk for naturalized and non‐naturalized plants largely overlapped, and their location did not change much under projected future climates. Nevertheless, naturalized plants had their potential range shifting poleward over larger distances, whereas the non‐naturalized ones had their potential elevational ranges shifting further upslope under the most severe climate change scenarios. As a result, climate and land use changes are predicted to shrink the potential alien range of European plants, but less so for already naturalized than for non‐naturalized species.

Main conclusions

While currently non‐naturalized plants originate frequently from mountain ranges or boreal and Mediterranean biomes in Europe, the naturalized ones usually occur at low elevations, close to human centres of activities. As the latter are expected to increase worldwide, this could explain why the potential alien range of already naturalized plants will shrink less.
Overestimation of glomerular filtration rate calculated from creatinine as compared with cystatin C in patients with type 2 diabetes receiving sodium‐glucose cotransportor 2 inhibitors
Authors: Choosongsang Pensiri , Soonthornpun Supamai
Published: July 2021

Aim

The aim of this cross‐sectional study is to compare creatinine‐based estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFRcr) and cystatin C‐based estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFRcys) between patients with type 2 diabetes receiving and not receiving sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors.

Methods

The plasma specimens from 90 patients with type 2 diabetes who had been receiving SGLT2 inhibitors for at least 24 weeks (SGLT2 inhibitors group) were selected. Meanwhile, the plasma specimens from age‐, sex‐ and BMI‐matched patients with type 2 diabetes not receiving SGLT2 inhibitors (non‐SGLT2 inhibitors group) in 1:1 matching were also selected for comparison. eGFRcr and eGFRcys were calculated using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration equation.

Results

When compared with the non‐SGLT2 inhibitors group, eGFRcr was significantly higher in the SGLT2 inhibitors group (70.54 ± 24.87 vs. 79.95 ± 19.57 mL/min/1.73 m2, p = 0.014) while eGFRcys was not different (66.32 ± 24.98 vs 69.17 ± 20.10 ml/min/1.73 m2, p = 0.401). Based on eGFRcr, the chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage in the SGLT2 inhibitors group was lower than that in the non‐SGLT2 inhibitors group, but it was not different when CKD stage was classified by eGFRcys. The difference between eGFRcr and eGFRcys (eGFRcr‐cys) was significantly higher in the SGLT2 inhibitors group (4.22 ± 11.20 vs. 10.78 ± 10.42 ml/min/1.73 m2, p < 0.001). In male patients, there was significant correlation between the eGFRcr‐cys and duration of receiving SGLT‐2 inhibitors (r = 0.398, p = 0.004). This correlation was not found in female patients.

Conclusions

There was a discrepancy between eGFRcr and eGFRcys in patients with type 2 diabetes receiving SGLT2 inhibitors when compared with those not receiving SGLT2 inhibitors.
Splint stiffness and extension effects on a simulated avulsed permanent incisor—A patient‐specific finite element analysis
Authors: Vilela Andomar Bruno Fernandes , Soares Priscilla Barbosa Ferreira , Beaini Thiago Leite , Versluis Antheunis , Soares Carlos José
Published: July 2021

Background/Aim

Splinting is an important procedure after avulsion. However, the role of splint stiffness and extension is not fully understood. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of splint stiffness and extensions on the mobility and stress on an injured tooth under physiological biting load.

Materials and methods

Three‐dimensional (3D) finite element models were created from a cone beam computer tomogram of a patient with normal occlusion. An avulsion injury of the right central incisor was created with a 1000 N load application on the palatal of the injured tooth, causing increased socket width. Splints made from four materials were tested: 0.9 mm diameter wire‐composite splint (WCS1), 0.4 mm diameter wire‐composite splint (WCS2), 1.0 mm diameter nylon‐composite splint (NCS), and a 2 mm high by 0.2 mm thick plastic strip composite splint (PSS). Three splint extensions (involving 6, 5, and 3 teeth) were evaluated. Mobility of the avulsed tooth and the maximum principal stress distributions in the adjacent teeth were calculated.

Results

The injured incisor tooth mobility was not affected by the splint extensions. The NCS and PSS stabilized the avulsed incisor but allowed, respectively, 10 and 20 times more mobility under horizontal loading than the WCS1, which inhibited most mobility, while the WCS2 allowed double the mobility compared with WCS1. The NCS and PSS allowed more tooth mobility, mainly in the extrusion direction. Splints were 2–3 times more effective in limiting mobility under intrusive loads than extrusive loads. High levels of stress were found at the base of the composite attachments in the adjacent incisors.

Conclusion

Splinting an avulsed tooth to one or two teeth bilaterally using a nylon splint or a plastic strip is appropriate for tooth stabilization and should be recommended over the 0.4mm wire‐composite splint, while the 0.9 mm orthodontic wire is too rigid and not recommended.
LevelMind@JC hubs–a novel community‐based youth mental wellness early intervention in Hong Kong: An evaluation of stakeholders' perceptions and experiences
Authors: Lam Bess Yin‐Hung , Hui Christy Lai‐Ming , Lui Simon Sai‐Yu , Chan Kai‐Tai , Wong Michael Tak‐Hing , Chan Sherry Kit‐Wa , Lee Edwin Ho‐Ming , Chang Wing‐Chung , Wong Gloria H. Y. , Chen Eric Yu‐Hai
Published: July 2021

Objectives

LevelMind@JC youth mental wellness hubs have been launched as a novel early intervention initiative to mitigate the inevitable youth mental health problems in Hong Kong in 2019. The present study investigated the perceptions and experiences of these hubs amonst three key stakeholders, namely hub youths, hub carers of youths and hub staff.

Method

An online survey assessing the perceptions and experiences of hubs on 6 major domains (e.g., youth‐friendly and nonstigmatizing characteristics) was administered to three stakeholders in December 2020. Seventy‐one hub youths (12–35 years old), 18 hub carers (30–64 years old) and 25 hub staff (24–59 years old) completed the survey.

Results

On a 5‐point Likert scale with higher ratings representing better outcomes, all three stakeholders reported above‐average ratings on their overall satisfaction of hub experiences (hub youths: mean = 4.4, SD = 0.6; hub carers: mean = 4, SD = 0.8; hub staff: mean = 3.8, SD = 0.6). In addition, hub youths and hub carers reported above‐average ratings on youth‐friendly and nonstigmatizing characteristics regarding hubs (mean >=4.2).

Conclusions

The present findings suggest that the key stakeholders are generally satisfied with and show support to the youth‐friendly, empowering and nonstigmatizing LevelMind @JC hubs. These findings along with the suggestions for hub improvement made by the stakeholders highlight the importance of taking cultural values into consideration whilst planning for mental services. More importantly, clinical implications are also highlighted which give insight for the development and implementation of a scalable, effective, and replicable early community intervention for psychiatric practise pertaining to youth mental health.
Healthcare providers' perceptions of virtual‐care with children's mental health in a pandemic: A hospital and community perspective
Authors: Romanchych Erin , Desai Riddhi , Bartha Christina , Carson Neill , Korenblum Marshall , Monga Suneeta
Published: July 2021

Aim

The purpose of the present study was to explore the experiences of a diverse group of mental health clinicians both in hospital and in the community, who were required to rapidly adopt virtual‐care practices in the delivery of mental health services to children, adolescents, and their families.

Methods

Mental health clinicians (N = 117) completed the Clinician Virtual‐Care Experience Survey assessing the following domains: ease of technology use, client/patient‐provider interaction quality, and clinician wellbeing.

Results

Although over 70% of clinicians had not used virtual‐care to deliver mental health services prior to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 pandemic, more than 80% felt it was easy to operate the virtual platforms. Clinicians were divided in their perceptions of the effectiveness of virtual‐care, with only 42% reporting that they felt they were as effective in delivering healthcare services virtually as compared to in‐person. Virtual‐care was described as being more effective for specific populations, while challenges were described in building rapport and when delivering difficult or unexpected feedback.

Conclusions

Clinicians felt there were some benefits of adopting virtual‐care practices, while challenges were also identified. Understanding of the impact of virtual‐care on service providers is essential in order to strengthen mental healthcare for children, adolescents, and their families even beyond the pandemic.
Selection of sites for field trials of genetically engineered mosquitoes with gene drive
Authors: Lanzaro Gregory C. , Campos Melina , Crepeau Marc , Cornel Anthony , Estrada Abram , Gripkey Hans , Haddad Ziad , Kormos Ana , Palomares Steven
Published: July 2021

Novel malaria control strategies using genetically engineered mosquitoes (GEMs) are on the horizon. Population modification is one approach wherein mosquitoes are engineered with genes rendering them refractory to the malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, coupled with a low‐threshold, Cas9‐based gene drive. When released into a wild vector population, GEMs preferentially transmit these parasite‐blocking genes to their offspring, ultimately modifying a vector population into a nonvector one. Deploying this technology awaits ecologically contained field trial evaluations. Here, we consider a process for site selection, the first critical step in designing a trial. Our goal is to identify a site that maximizes prospects for success, minimizes risk, and serves as a fair, valid, and convincing test of efficacy and impacts of a GEM product intended for large‐scale deployment in Africa. We base site selection on geographic, geological, and biological, rather than social or legal, criteria. We recognize the latter as critically important but not as a first step in selecting a site. We propose physical islands as being the best candidates for a GEM field trial and present an evaluation of 22 African islands. We consider geographic and genetic isolation, biological complexity, island size, and topography and identify two island groups that satisfy key criteria for ideal GEM field trial sites.
Angiotensin aldosterone inhibitors improve survival and ameliorate kidney injury induced by sepsis through suppression of inflammation and apoptosis
Authors: Al‐Kadi Alaa , El‐Daly Mahmoud , El‐Tahawy Nashwa F. G. , Khalifa Mohamed Montaser A. , Ahmed Al‐Shaimaa F.
Published: July 2021

Sepsis is an extensive life‐threatening illness that occurs due to an abnormal host response that extends through the initial storm of inflammation and oxidative stress and terminates at the late stage of immunosuppression. Among global intensive care units, sepsis‐induced acute kidney injury is reported with high mortality rate. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the protective effect of the renin angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS) inhibition on sepsis outcomes. Cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) procedure was applied for sepsis induction. The experimental design constituted of five groups of rats: sham, CLP‐nontreated and CLP‐treated with ramipril (10 mg/kg, p.o.), losartan (20 mg/kg, i.p.) and spironolactone (25 mg/kg, p.o.). Twenty‐four hours after surgery, rats were euthanized for blood and tissue samples, which were used for assessment of serum inflammatory markers, and oxidative stress parameters, as well as to kidney function parameters. The tissue samples were used for histological and caspase‐3 assessment. A survival study was conducted using another set of animals. Our results showed that the different RAAS inhibitors showed protective effects evidenced by enhanced overall survival following sepsis (80% in ramipril and spironolactone‐treated and 60% in losartan‐treated vs. 10% in the septic group), in addition to improved renal function parameters and reduction of oxidative stress and inflammation. The timely use of RAAS inhibitors during sepsis might represent a new therapeutic approach in septic patient.
Patient preferences and priorities for haemophilia gene therapy in the US: A discrete choice experiment
Authors: Witkop Michelle , Morgan George , O'Hara Jamie , Recht Michael , Buckner Tyler W. , Nugent Diane , Curtis Randall , O'Mahony Brian , Skinner Mark W. , Mulhern Brendan , Cawson Matthew , Ali Talaha M. , Sawyer Eileen K. , Li Nanxin
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Gene therapy has shown promise in clinical trials for patients with haemophilia, but patient preference studies have focused on factor replacement treatments.

Aim

We conducted a discrete choice experiment (DCE) to investigate the relative importance and differential preferences patients provide for gene therapy attributes.

Methods

We surveyed male adults with haemophilia in the United States recruited from patient panels including the National Hemophilia Foundation Community Voices in Research platform using an online survey over 4 months in 2020/21. Participants indicated preferences for gene therapy attributes including dosing frequency/durability, effect on annual bleeding, uncertainty related to side effects, impact on daily activities, impact on mental health, and post‐treatment requirements. The relative importance of each attribute was analysed overall and for subgroups based on haemophilia type and severity.

Results

A total of 183 males with haemophilia A (n = 120) or B (n = 63) were included. Half (47%) had severe haemophilia; most (75%) were White. Overall, participants gave effect on bleeding rate the greatest relative importance (31%), followed by dose frequency/durability (26%), uncertainty regarding safety issues (17%), and impact on daily activities (11%). Dose frequency/durability had the greatest importance for those with haemophilia B (35%).

Conclusion

People with haemophilia prioritised reduced bleeding and treatment burden; the former was more important in haemophilia A and the latter in haemophilia B, followed by safety and impact on daily life in this DCE of gene therapy attributes. These findings and differences can inform clinical and health policy decisions to improve health equity for people with haemophilia.
Radial cracking at Vickers indentations in pristine flat/square silica fibers
Authors: Kurkjian Chuck R. , Allameh Seyed M. , Yoshida Satoshi
Published: July 2021

It has been found that the pristine surface of as‐drawn, flat silica fibers can be indented in air (~50%RH) using a Vickers diamond at a load of 11N without severe cracking during loading. Cracking does occur during unloading, but rather than ring and cone cracks as has been found by many others, radial cracks are observed: essentially as found in “normal” silicate glasses. This normal type cracking in silica glass has been also observed in detail at a high magnification by using a self‐made indentation microscope. It is suggested that the ring/cone cracks usually seen in a silica glass plate are the result of the propagation of the flaws normally present on surface, that is, “pre‐existing cracks.” The data are discussed using Yoffe's model which represents the indentation stress field.
Building community and resilience in Massachusetts nursing homes during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Baughman Amy W. , Renton Marina , Wehbi Nizar K. , Sheehan Eric J. , Gregorio Tara M. , Yurkofsky Mark , Levine Sharon , Jackson Vicki , Pu Chuck T. , Lipsitz Lewis A.
Published: July 2021

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, frontline nursing home staff faced extraordinary stressors including high infection and mortality rates and ever‐changing and sometimes conflicting federal and state regulations. To support nursing homes in evidence‐based infection control practices, the Massachusetts Senior Care Association and Hebrew SeniorLife partnered with the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality AHRQ ECHO National Nursing Home COVID‐19 Action Network (the network). This educational program provided 16 weeks of free weekly virtual sessions to 295 eligible nursing homes, grouped into nine cohorts of 30–33 nursing homes. Eighty‐three percent of eligible nursing homes in Massachusetts participated in the Network, and Hebrew SeniorLife's Training Center served the vast majority. Each cohort was led by geriatrics clinicians and nursing home leaders, and coaches trained in quality improvement. The interactive sessions provided timely updates on COVID‐19 infection control best practices to improve care and also created a peer‐to‐peer learning community to share ongoing challenges and potential solutions. The weekly Network meetings were a source of connection, emotional support, and validation and may be a valuable mechanism to support resilience and well‐being for nursing home staff.
Analysis of the transmission mode of sugarcane white leaf phytoplasma in Gengma, Yunnan Province, China
Authors: Shan Hong‐Li , Zhang Rong‐Yue , Wang Xiao‐Yan , Cang Xiao‐Yan , Wang Chang‐Mi , Li Wen‐Feng , Yin Jiong , Luo Zhi‐Ming , Huang Ying‐Kun
Published: July 2021

Sugarcane white leaf (SCWL) is a destructive new sugarcane disease that has spread rapidly throughout low‐latitude plateau regions of Yunnan Province, China. To determine the transmission mode of SCWL phytoplasma in this region, the transmission mode of SCWL phytoplasma was analysed in the Gengma sugarcane area of Lincang City, Yunnan Province, where SCWL is severe. Five susceptible sugarcane varieties were grown with phytoplasma‐infected and pathogen‐free seedcane in 2018–2019, and then, systematic comparisons of newly emerging and ratoon crops were carried out. Comparisons using insect‐proof netting were also performed to confirm the role of insect vectors. The average rate of disease in newly emerging and ratoon crops grown with phytoplasma‐infected seedcane was 11.7%–72.9%, while in plants grown with pathogen‐free seedcane, 0% disease was observed. Moreover, the average rate in plants grown with pathogen‐free seedcane under insect‐proof netting was also 0%. These results suggest that the main transmission mode of SCWL phytoplasma was seedcane with phytoplasma in Gengma sugarcane area (SCWL serious occurrence area) of Lincang City, Yunnan Province. These findings provide a foundation for further studies of sugarcane phytoplasma disease, as well as a scientific basis for the effective prevention and control of SCWL in low‐latitude plateau regions in Yunnan Province.
Variations in maxillary second molar position of untreated subjects with normal occlusions: A long‐term observational study
Authors: Giuntini Veronica , Nieri Michele , Goracci Cecilia , Ruellas Antonio C. , McNamara James A. , Franchi Lorenzo
Published: July 2021

Introduction

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the long‐term variations in maxillary second molar position in untreated subjects with normal occlusion.

Setting and sample population

A sample of 39 subjects (18 females and 21 males) selected from the University of Michigan Growth Study (UMGS) was followed longitudinally with digital dental casts at 3 observation times: T1, when the maxillary permanent second molars were fully erupted, T2, last observation available in the longitudinal series (38 subjects), and T3, at least 20 years after T2 (12 subjects).

Materials and methods

Digital measurements were recorded with an open‐source software. Outcome variables were sagittal and transverse inclinations of the upper second molars. Two mixed‐effect models were performed.

Results

The maxillary second molars had a distolingual inclination at T1, T2 and T3. Sagittal and transverse inclination showed progressive significant uprighting from T1 through T3 (P < .001). From T1 to T2, the adjusted difference in sagittal crown inclination was 8.0° (95% CI from 6.5° to 9.6°; P < .001). From T2 to T3, the adjusted difference was 5.5° (95% CI from 3.0° to 8.1°; P < .001). From T1 to T2, the adjusted difference in transverse crown inclination was 1.9° (95% CI from 0.4° to 3.5°; P = .011). From T2 to T3, the adjusted difference was 6.0° (95% CI from 3.4° to 8.5°; P < .001).

Conclusions

Along with age, maxillary second molars showed a progressive significant uprighting with a decrease in the distal and lingual inclinations.
Oral hygiene in patients with motor neuron disease requires attention: A cross‐sectional survey study
Authors: Makizodila Berthe A.M. , van de Wijdeven Johanna H.E. , de Soet Johannes J. , van Selms Maurits K.A. , Volgenant Catherine M.C.
Published: July 2021

Aims

Motor Neuron Disease (MND) is a progressive neurodegenerative neuromuscular disease, which can progressively impair arm‐hand function. Needs and barriers of MND patients and their caregivers in performing oral hygiene were studied.

Methods

An online survey was sent to 706 MND patients. The questions of the survey included self‐reliance, self‐reported oral health, and oral hygiene. The oral health‐related quality of life (GOHAI‐NL) and the subjective well‐being (ALSAQ‐5) were also measured.

Results

A total of 259 patients responded (36.7%), of which 71.9% stated not to be informed about the importance of maintaining good oral health by their MND treatment team. Moreover, 40.4% would like to receive help concerning oral hygiene from a dental professional. 19.8% were not satisfied about oral care as conducted by themselves or their caregivers. Patients who do not ask for support with their daily oral care had a significantly worse oral health‐related quality of life compared to patients who do ask for support.

Conclusions

The support for daily oral hygiene of MND patients and their barriers to requesting support needs more attention from both MND‐treatment teams and general dental professionals.
Scepticisms in the Formation of Islamic Rational Theology: Abū al‐Qāsim al‐Balkhī and Ibn al‐Malāḥimī Providing a Window on the Transmission of Arguments from Late Antiquity
Authors: Eichner Heidrun
Published: July 2021

Newly accessible source material calls for a revision of our picture of the more technical transmission of sceptical epistemologies in the intellectual landscape of early Islam. Abū al‐Qāsim al‐Balkhīʼs (ninth/tenth century) Book of Doctrines shows that naẓar as the basic argumentative method of kalām is defined by the encounter with a broad spectrum of sceptical strategies. By the beginning of the tenth century, Greek traditions were amalgamated in a complex way with other intellectual traditions, most notably dualist ontologies. This situation has shaped the evolution of kalām methodology decisively. Based on extensive paraphrases in Ibn al‐Malāḥimī (twelfth century) going back to Nawbakhtī (tenth century), it can be seen that arguments of the Greek sceptical tradition were accessible in Arabic in the early tenth century. The scarcity of coherent information on sceptical approaches before that time rather has to do with the problem that in general few sources of this earlier formative period of Islamic theology are preserved. Early Muʿtazilī treatises from this period are superseded by Ashʿarī texts in the later transmission. Sceptical approaches, being systematically involved in the very formation of early Muʿtazilī theology, are particularly invisible due to this process.
The addition of adjunctive letermovir to valganciclovir for refractory cytomegalovirus viremia in kidney transplant recipients
Authors: Jorgenson Margaret R. , Descourouez Jillian L. , Garg Neetika , Parajuli Sandesh , Mandelbrot Didier A. , Odorico Jon S. , Saddler Christopher M. , Smith Jeannina A.
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Persistent viral replication resulting in ongoing cytomegalovirus (CMV) viremia despite adequate therapy is difficult to manage and associated with negative outcomes. We report a case series of kidney transplant recipients receiving adjunctive letermovir in combination with valganciclovir for refractory CMV.

Methods

Adult patients receiving a kidney or kidney‐pancreas transplant were included if they developed CMV viremia and initiated letermovir 480 mg daily as part of a dual therapy regimen with valganciclovir 900 mg twice daily between 1/9/2020 and 31/12/2020. Included patients received ≥90 days of valganciclovir and had a detectable viral load less than 1000 Iu/ml (log10 < 3) at the time of letermovir initiation. The primary objective was to evaluate the impact of adjunctive letermovir on viral clearance to negativity. We also evaluated effect of letermovir on tacrolimus levels.

Results

Eight patients were included. Letermovir was added 223 ± 105 days after initiation of CMV treatment with ganciclovir derivatives. Median viral load at initiation was 139.7 (range: 73–355) IU/ml and did not clear or change significantly after 2, 4 and 12 weeks of adjunctive letermovir (132.5 [range: 34.5–513] IU/ml vs. 68.7 [range: 34.5–574] IU/ml vs. 78.3 [range: 34.5–347] IU/ml, p > 0.05). Tacrolimus was reduced by ∼30% in anticipation of a letermovir‐tacrolimus drug interaction. Despite this reduction, mean tacrolimus serum levels two weeks after adjunctive letermovir increased by 43% (5.6 ± 1.6 ng/ml vs 8.0 ± 4.6 ng/ml).

Conclusion

In kidney and kidney‐pancreas recipients with refractory CMV, the use of adjunctive letermovir did not result in viral clearance. Additionally, despite a mean tacrolimus dose reduction of 30% at letermovir initiation, serum concentrations increased by over 40%. Further investigation into the optimal approach to refractory CMV is needed.