bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atypical Case of Bilateral Chandler Syndrome With Recurrent Band Keratopathy
Authors: Agarwal Mamta , Dhiman Richa , Subramanian Krishnakumar
Published: December 2020

Purpose:

To report a unique case of bilateral Chandler syndrome with recurrent band keratopathy.

Methods:

This is a retrospective observational case report.

Results:

A 39-year-old Asian man presented with progressive painless diminution of vision in both eyes for 6 years. Examination revealed diffuse corneal edema, hammered silver appearance of endothelium with guttae-like lesions, and corectopia in the right eye and mild corneal edema, central band keratopathy, and guttae-like lesions on the endothelium and peripheral anterior synechiae in the left eye. Routine specular microscopy, confocal microscopy, and pachymetry were performed. A clinical diagnosis of bilateral Chandler syndrome with band keratopathy was made. Superficial epithelial keratectomy with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) chelation was performed in the left eye first, followed by Descemet-stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty in the right eye. Histopathological examination of the surgically excised Descemet membrane in the right eye showed multilayered endothelium with adhered epithelial cells consistent with Chandler syndrome. At 9-month follow-up, the right eye showed a clear cornea with an attached graft and the left eye revealed recurrence of central band keratopathy for which repeat EDTA chelation was successfully performed.

Conclusions:

Recurrent band keratopathy coincident with endothelial dysfunction in iridocorneal endothelial syndrome can be repeatedly treated with EDTA chelation, whereas endothelial keratoplasty might be delayed until the time point of corneal decompensation.
Pneumonia in Hospitalized Children During SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic. Is it All COVID-19? Comparison Between COVID and Non-COVID Pneumonia
Authors: Jimenez-García Raquel , Nogueira Javier , Retuerta-Oliva Azucena , Sainz Talía , Cano-Fernández Julia , Flores-Pérez Patricia , Méndez-Echevarría Ana , Villalobos-Pinto Enrique , Calleja-Gero Lourdes , Sanz-Santaeufemia Fancisco J. , Romero María P. , del Rosal Teresa , Baquero-Artigao Fernando , Grasa Carlos , Calvo Cristina
Published: December 2020

Our study describes more than 100 children hospitalized with pneumonia during lockdown in the first pandemic wave with only 20% attributable to SARS-CoV-2. The serologic study during follow-up only helped to detect 4%. Other etiologies were common. Older age, presence of headache, vomiting, lymphopenia and thrombopenia were associated with COVID-19 pneumonia.
Mortality in Perinatally HIV-infected Adolescents After Transition to Adult Care in Spain
Authors: Berzosa Sánchez Arantxa , Jiménez De Ory Santiago , Frick M. Antoinette , Menasalvas Ruiz Ana Isabel , Couceiro José Antonio , Mellado Mª José , Bisbal Otilia , Albendin Iglesias Helena , Montero Marta , Roca Cristina , Samperiz Gloria , Cervero Miguel , Miralles Celia , Fortuny Guash Clàudia , Carrasco Itziar , Navarro María Luisa , Ramos Amador José Tomás
Published: December 2020

Introduction:

After the introduction of combination antiretroviral treatment, (ART) mortality in HIV-infected patients has dramatically decreased. However, it is still high in patients at risk, as adolescents transitioning to adult care (AC) without virologic control. The aim of this study was to characterize mortality and comorbidities of perinatally infected HIV (PHIV) patients after transition to AC.

Methods:

A multicenter retrospective study from patients included in the CoRISpe-FARO Spanish cohort was conducted. PHIV patients who died after transition to AC between 2009 and 2019 were included. Clinical, immunovirologic characteristics, treatments received, comorbidities and causes of death were described.

Results:

Among 401 PHIV patients, 14 died (3.5%). All were Spanish, 11/14 (78.6%) women. The median age at diagnosis was 1.5 years (interquartile range [IQR] 0.5–3.9), at transfer to AC was 18 years [16.1–19.9] and at death was 25.8 years [23.6–27.1]. In pediatric units [pediatric care (PC)], CD4+ nadir was 85 cells/μL [IQR 9.7–248.5] and 6/14 patients were classified as C-clinical stage. During AC, all patients were on C-clinical stage and CD4+ nadir dropped to 11.5 cells/μL [4.5–43.3]. cART adherence was extremely poor: in PC, 8/14 patients registered voluntary treatment interruptions; only one had undetectable VL at transition. In AC, 12/14 patients stopped treatment 2 or more periods of time. All deaths were related to advanced HIV disease. Mental health disorders were observed in 7/14 (50%). Main complications described: recurrent bacterial infections (57.1%), wasting syndrome (42.9%), esophageal candidiasis (28.6%) and Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (28.6%). Four women had 11 pregnancies; 5 children were born (none infected).

Conclusions:

Young adults PHIV infected who transition to AC without virologic suppression or proven ability to adhere to ART are at high risk of mortality. Mortality was noted as a consequence of advanced HIV disease, frequent mental health problems and poor adherence to ART.
Machine Learning Supports Automated Digital Image Scoring of Stool Consistency in Diapers
Authors: Ludwig Thomas , Oukid Ines , Wong Jill , Ting Steven , Huysentruyt Koen , Roy Puspita , Foussat Agathe C. , Vandenplas Yvan
Published: December 2020

Background/Aims:

Accurate stool consistency classification of non–toilet‐trained children remains challenging. This study evaluated the feasibility of automated classification of stool consistencies from diaper photos using machine learning (ML).

Methods:

In total, 2687 usable smartphone photos of diapers with stool from 96 children younger than 24 months were obtained after independent ethical study approval. Stool consistency was assessed from each photo according to the original 7 types of the Brussels Infant and Toddler Stool Scale independently by study participants and 2 researchers. A health care professional assigned a final score in case of scoring disagreement between the researchers. A proof‐of‐concept ML model was built upon this collected photo database, using transfer learning to re‐train the classification layer of a pretrained deep convolutional neural network model. The model was built on random training (n = 2478) and test (n = 209) subsets.

Results:

Agreements between study participants and both researchers were 58.0% and 48.5%, respectively, and between researchers 77.5% (assessable n = 2366). The model classified 60.3% of the test photos in exact agreement with the final score. With respect to the 4‐class grouping of the 7 Brussels Infant and Toddler Stool Scale types, the agreement between model‐based and researcher classification was 77.0%.

Conclusion:

The automated and objective scoring of stool consistency from diaper photos by the ML model shows robust agreement with human raters and overcomes limitations of other methods relying on caregiver reporting. Integrated with a smartphone application, this new framework for photo database construction and ML classification has numerous potential applications in clinical studies and home assessment.
Influence of Acid Blockade on the Aerodigestive Tract Microbiome in Children With Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Khalaf Racha T. , Furuta Glenn T. , Wagner Brandie D. , Robertson Charles E. , Andrews Rachel , Stevens Mark J. , Fillon Sophie A. , Zemanick Edith T. , Harris J. Kirk
Published: December 2020

Background:

Acid blockade is commonly prescribed in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Growing concerns, however, exist about its possible role in the pathophysiology of pulmonary infections. We aimed to investigate if acid blockade alters esophageal and respiratory microbiota leading to dysbiosis and inflammation.

Methods:

We performed a cross sectional study of children with CF who were either prescribed acid blockade or not. Samples from the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts were obtained and microbiome analyzed. Mixed effect models were used to compare outcomes between cohorts and across sampling sites. A random subject intercept was included to account for the multiple sampling sites per individual.

Results:

A cohort of 25 individuals, 44% girls with median age of 13.8 years [IQR 11.2‐‐14.8] were enrolled. Alpha diversity, total bacterial load, and beta diversity were similar across anatomic compartments, across the upper gastrointestinal tract, and in respiratory samples. Similar alpha diversity, total bacterial load, and beta diversity results were also observed when comparing individuals on versus those off acid blockade. IL‐8 was elevated in the distal versus proximal esophagus in the whole cohort (P < 0.01). IL‐8 concentrations were similar in the distal esophagus in patients on and off acid blockade, but significantly greater in the proximal esophagus of subjects on treatment (P < 0.01).

Conclusions:

On the basis of these data, acid blockade use does not appear to influence the microbiome of the aerodigestive tract in children with cystic fibrosis suggesting a complex interplay between these medications and the bacterial composition of the esophagus and lung.
Adenocarcinoma of the Uterine Cervix: Immunohistochemical Biomarker Expression and Diagnostic Performance
Authors: Duggan Máire A. , Duan Qiuli , Pfeiffer Ruth M. , Brett Mary A. , Lee Sandra , Köbel Martin , Sar Aylin
Published: December 2020

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) improves the diagnosis of cervical adenocarcinoma but is not adequately studied. The performance of 16 antibodies previously reported as potentially discriminating between some histotypes was investigated in 184 tumors comprised of 12 histotype groups collapsed into 3 categories [47 adenocarcinomas in situ (AIS), 121 probable human papillomavirus–dependent adenocarcinomas (HPVD), and 16 of probable independence (HPVI)]. IHC sections from 5 tissue microarrays were scanned, and 3 pathologists independently reviewed images to assess staining percentages and intensities. Biomarker expression was based on published positive and negative cutoffs and agreement between any 2 pathologists. Differences between the 3 categories in the hierarchical ranking of biomarker positivity were analyzed by Random Forest classification, and between select groups by Unsupervised Hierarchical Clustering. Important category discriminants were combined in logistic regression models and the area under the curve (AUC) computed. Potential group discriminants were terminal cluster biomarkers with a 50% or more difference in positivity. Strong associations occurred between the lower expression of carcinoembryonic antigen and stromal actin in AIS compared with HPVD [AUC=0.70, 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.59-0.80] and in the higher expression of p16 and estrogen receptor in comparison to HPVI (AUC=0.86, 95% CI, 0.73-0.98), and between the higher expression of p16, carcinoembryonic antigen and estrogen receptor in HPVD compared with HPVI (AUC=0.88, 95% CI, 0.77-0.99). Between select groups, 9 biomarkers emerged as potential discriminants. Select IHC biomarkers can discriminate AIS from invasive adenocarcinomas, and invasive adenocarcinomas stratified by human papillomavirus dependency from each other. Independent replication in larger studies is needed, and to confirm discriminants of histotype groups.
Coexpress of GATA-3 and ER in Anorectal and Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Mimicking Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Wang Yihong , Lu Shaolei , Amin Ali , Wang Lijuan
Published: December 2020

GATA binding protein 3 (GATA-3) is a sensitive marker for breast and urothelial carcinomas. In combination with the estrogen receptor (ER), it is often used for differential diagnosis of metastatic carcinomas of breast origin. In this study, we sought to characterize GATA-3 and ER expression in squamous cell carcinoma (SqCC) of various origins to compare with breast carcinoma. Sixty-four SqCC of anorectum (35), head and neck (15), lung (11), and breast (3) as well as urothelial carcinoma (31) were included. In anorectal and head and neck SqCC, GATA-3, and ER was observed in 23/50 (46.0%) and 18/50 (36.0%) of the cases, respectively. The expression of GATA-3 and ER were present in both male and female patients without significant sex predominance. In 2 metastatic SqCC, the GATA-3 and ER expressed similar immunoreactivity compatible with their anorectal primary. Progesterone receptor was only expressed in 2 anorectal SqCC and none of head and neck SqCC or urothelial carcinomas. None of the lung SqCC expressed GATA-3 or ER (0/11). p16 was expressed in the majority of head and neck (6/12) and anorectal SqCC (26/27). Our study demonstrated that the combination of GATA-3 and ER positivity is not entirely specific for breast carcinomas, since both stains are expressed in SqCC from anorectal and head and neck origins. Clinical workup for metastatic carcinoma of suspicious breast origin should be cognizant of other tumors with a similar immunohistochemical profile (ie, SqCC).
Differential Diagnosis of Cognitive Decline in Elderly Individuals With Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Jakimovski Dejan , Szigeti Kinga , Jaworski Michael , Ouf Aya , Weinstock-Guttman Bianca , Zivadinov Robert , Benedict Ralph H.B.
Published: December 2020

Due to increasingly improved disability outcomes, and the resultant significantly improved life span, of the multiple sclerosis (MS) population, questions regarding cognitive aging and the prevalence of comorbid Alzheimer disease (AD) have emerged. We describe neuropsychological and MRI-based changes that occurred in an 84-year-old MS patient with comorbid amnestic mild cognitive impairment (a precursor to AD) and cerebrovascular pathology. The neuropsychological examination demonstrated impairment in cognitive processing speed as well as in verbal and visual memory—domains that are potentially affected by any, or all, of the three co-existing diseases. Amyloid-based PET imaging showed increased focal uptake within the gray matter of the occipital lobe. We highlight how these clinical and radiologic observations can inform future research that could elucidate interactions between MS, a probable AD diagnosis, and cerebrovascular pathology in elderly individuals with MS. A comprehensive neuropsychological examination of multiple cognitive domains of individuals with MS may aid in the differential diagnosis of late-in-life cognitive decline.
Frequency of and risk factors for carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae
Authors: Barber Katie E. , Wagner Jamie L. , Larry Rachel C. , Stover Kayla R.
Published: December 2020

Introduction. Carbapenem-resistant

Enterobacteriaceae

(CRE) are an urgent threat in the USA and are associated with adverse clinical and economic outcomes. Several studies have evaluated risk factors for acquiring CRE versus carbapenem-susceptible

Enterobacteriaceae

, identifying antibiotic use and length of hospital stay as major players. However, no studies have compared risk factors for CRE colonization versus infection.

Hypothesis/Gap Statement. Patients with CRE infection will have different risk factors and worse clinical outcomes than patients with CRE colonization.

Aim. To assess clinical outcomes in patients with CRE infection versus CRE colonization.

Methodology. A retrospective cohort of adult patients admitted between 1 June 2013 and 31 July 2018 with the first positive CRE culture from any source was performed. Patients were divided into two groups: CRE infection versus CRE colonization. Data collected included demographics, comorbidities, past antimicrobial usage and clinical outcomes (length of stay, in-hospital mortality). The primary outcome was infection-related length of stay. Data analysis was performed utilizing SPSS with a two-sided P value of less than 0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results. A total of 56 patients were included (32 with infection; 24 with colonization). Baseline characteristics were similar between both groups. Infected patients were more likely to have higher actual body weight compared to colonized patients (P=0.03). CRE-infected patients had a longer infection-related hospital stay [12 days (5–20) and 7.5 days (1–13), respectively; P=0.08], but in-hospital mortality was similar between infected and colonized patients (37.5 and 29.2 %, respectively; P=0.30). Patients with infection were more likely to have previous exposure to levofloxacin (P=0.02) and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (P=0.03) for a median of 9 days compared to those with colonization. The most common source of CRE in infected patients was the blood compared to respiratory sources in colonized patients.

Conclusion. CRE infection as opposed to colonization was more common in patients with previous exposure to levofloxacin and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and those with higher actual body weight.
Lactic acid bacterial exopolysaccharides strongly bind histamine and can potentially be used to remove histamine contamination in food
Authors: Kinoshita Hideki , Hariu Moe , Nakashima Yuki , Watanabe Kohei , Yasuda Shin , Igoshi Keiji
Published: December 2020

The symptoms of foodborne histamine poisoning are similar to those of IgE-mediated food allergies. In this study, we investigated the histamine-binding capacity of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains as potential preventive agents against histamine poisoning. Histamine biosorption capacity was determined for 16 LAB strains.

Leuconostoc mesenteroides

TOKAI 51 m,

Lactobacillus paracasei

TOKAI 65 m,

Lactobacillus plantarum

TOKAI 111 m and

Pediococcus pentosaceus

TOKAI 759 m showed especially high biosorption rates and reached saturation within 30 min. Adsorption isotherms showed better conformance to the Freundlich model than to the Langmuir model. Analyses after heat, periodic acid and guanidine hydrochloride treatments suggested that histamine was bound to the bacterial cell surface. HPLC analysis revealed that exopolysaccharides produced by

Lact. paracasei

TOKAI 65 m strongly bound to histamine. In the detachment test with 1 mol l−1 HCl solution, the dissociation rate of histamine for

Lact. paracasei

TOKAI 65 m was <10 %. This strain is presumably a suitable candidate for use against histamine poisoning.
Predicting Stress in Teens from Wearable Device Data Using Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Jin Claire W. , Osotsi Ame , Oravecz Zita
Published: December 2020

Stress management is a pervasive issue in the modern high schooler’s life. Despite many efforts to support adolescents’ mental well-being, teenagers often fail to recognize signs of high stress and anxiety until their emotions have escalated. Being able to identify early signs of these intense emotional states and predict their onset using physiological signals collected passively in real-time could help teenagers improve their awareness of their emotional well-being and take a more proactive approach to managing their emotions. To evaluate the potential of this approach, we collected data from high schoolers with Empatica E4 wearable health monitors (wristband) while they were living their daily lives. The data consisted of stressful event reports and physiological markers over the course of 4 weeks. We developed a random forest model and a support vector machine model and systematically assessed their performance in terms of predicting the onset of stress events and identifying physiological signals of stress. The models showed strong performance in terms of these measures and provided insights on physiological indicators of adolescent stress.
Giving birth under hospital visitor restrictions: Heightened acute stress in childbirth in COVID-19 positive women
Authors: Mayopoulos Gus A , Ein-Dor Tsachi , Li Kevin G , Chan Sabrina J , Dekel Sharon
Published: December 2020

As the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has spread globally, a significant portion of women have undergone childbirth while possibly infected with the virus and also under social isolation due to hospital visitor restrictions. Emerging studies examined birth outcomes in COVID-19 positive women, but knowledge of the psychological experience of childbirth remains lacking. This study survey concerning childbirth and mental health launched during the first wave of the pandemic in the US. Women reporting confirmed/suspected COVID-19 during childbirth were matched on various background factors with women reporting COVID-19 negative. We found higher prevalence of clinically significant acute stress in birth in COVID-19 positive women. This group was 11 times as likely to have no visitors than matched controls and reported higher levels of pain in delivery, lower newborn weights, and more infant admission to neonatal intensive care units. Visitor restrictions were associated with these birth outcomes. COVID-19 positive women with no visitors were 6 times as likely to report clinical acute stress in birth than COVID-19 positive women with visitors. The findings underscore increased risk for childbirth-induced psychological morbidity in COVID-19-affected populations. As hospitals continue to revise policies concerning visitor restrictions, attention to the wellbeing of new mothers is warranted.
Bridging the gaps in test interpretation of SARS-CoV-2 through Bayesian network modelling
Authors: Wu Yue , Foley David , Ramsay Jessica , Woodberry Owen , Mascaro Steven , Nicholson Ann E , Snelling Tom
Published: December 2020

Background

In the absence of an established gold standard, an understanding of the testing cycle from individual exposure to test outcome report is required to guide the correct interpretation of SARS-CoV-2 reverse transcriptase real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) results and optimise the testing processes. Bayesian network (BN) models have been used within healthcare to bring clarity to complex problems. We use this modelling approach to construct a comprehensive framework for understanding the real world predictive value of individual RT-PCR results.

Methods

We elicited knowledge from domain experts to describe the test process from viral exposure to interpretation of the laboratory test, through a facilitated group workshop. A preliminary model was derived based on the elicited knowledge, then subsequently refined, parameterised and validated with a second workshop and one-on-one discussions.

Results

Causal relationships elicited describe the interactions of multiple variables and their impact on a RT-PCR result. Some interactions are infrequently observable and accounted for across the testing cycle such as pre-testing factors, sample collector experience and RT-PCR platform. By setting the input variables as ‘evidence’ for a given subject and preliminary parameterisation, three scenarios were simulated to demonstrate potential uses of the model.

Conclusions

The core value of this model is a deep understanding of the total testing cycle, bridging the gap between a person’s true infection status and their test outcome. This model can be adapted to different settings, testing modalities and pathogens, adding much needed nuance to the interpretations of results.
International observational survey of the effectiveness of personal protective equipment during endoscopic procedures performed in patients with COVID-19
Authors: Niikura Ryota , Fujishiro Mitsuhiro , Nakai Yousuke , Matsuda Koji , Kawahara Takuya , Yamada Atsuo , Tsuji Yosuke , Hayakawa Yoku , Koike Kazuhiko
Published: December 2020

Introduction and aims

This international survey was performed to evaluate the cumulative incidence of nosocomial novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) among healthcare professionals during endoscopic procedures.

Methods

We performed an international web-based self-reported questionnaire survey. Participants completed the questionnaires every week for 12 weeks. The questionnaire elicited responses regarding the development of COVID-19 and details of the PPE used.

Results

All 483 participants were included in the analysis. Participants had a mean age of 42.3 years and comprised 68.3% males. The geographic distribution of the study population was Asia (89.2%), Europe (2.9%), North and South America (4.8%), Oceania (0.6%), and Africa (1.5%). The most common endoscopy-related role of the participants was endoscopist (78.7%), and 74.5% had > 10 years of experience. Fourteen participants had performed 83 endoscopic procedures in patients positive for COVID-19. During the mean follow-up period of 4.95 weeks, there were no cases of COVID-19 when treating COVID-19 positive patients. The most common PPE used by participants treating patients with COVID-19 was a surgical mask plus N95 mask plus face shield, goggles, cap, long-sleeved isolation gown, and single pair of gloves. The most common PPE used by participants treating patients without COVID-19 was a surgical mask, no face shield but goggles, cap, long-sleeved isolation gown, and single pair of gloves during all endoscopic procedures.

Conclusions

The risk of COVID-19 transmission during any endoscopic procedure was low in clinical practice.
In situ energy-dispersive X-ray diffraction of local phase dynamics during solvothermal growth of Cu4O3
Authors: Jiang Zhelong , Sharma Jai , Okasinski John S. , Chen Haiyan , Shoemaker Daniel P.
Published: December 2020

Using in situ methods to characterize the state of a system during reactions is critical to understanding and improving solvothermal syntheses. This work demonstrates the use of in situ energy-dispersive X-ray diffraction (EDXRD) to investigate the local dynamics during solvothermal formation of Cu4O3 using a general-purpose full-sized laboratory oven. This allows for direct comparison of in situ data with laboratory-based reactions. Using in situ EDXRD, changes in the local amounts of Cu4O3, Cu2O and CuO within approximately 100 × 100 × 700 µm gauge volumes during solvothermal Cu4O3 formation were recorded. Fast conversion between Cu2O and CuO was observed in the solvothermal environment, whereas Cu4O3 was found to be chemically stable against disturbances once formed. The observed differences in local dynamics give further support to the differences in formation mechanisms between Cu4O3 and Cu2O/CuO proposed here.
Performance appraisal and premature sign-offs and underreporting of chargeable time of external auditors – internal benchmarking of experience and gender
Authors: Nehme Rabih , Michael Amir , Kozah Alcheikh Edmond
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The research paper investigates auditors' dysfunctional behaviors in relation to performance appraisals. It explores the dysfunctional audit behavior (DAB) differences among experienced/inexperienced and male/female auditors when expecting performance appraisals, how their perception of DAB changes and how their reactive-outcomes vary.

Design/methodology/approach

The survey comprises statements pulled from performance appraisal templates used by the Big Four audit firms in the UK. The sample has been tested during two different periods to highlight variations in the perception of DAB.

Findings

Experienced auditors become more tolerant of DAB compared to their perception when they were inexperienced. Inexperienced male auditors are generally more accepting of DAB compared to their inexperienced female counterparts. Experienced female respondents continue to be less accepting of DAB.

Originality/value

The study associates performance appraisal procedures with DAB. The analysis examines the perception of dysfunctional behavior according to the level of experience auditors (males and females) accumulate over time.
COVID-19 in a collectivist culture: social isolation and maintenance of social relations
Authors: Hussein Nashaat H.
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the way people in a collectivist culture, particularly Egyptians, define social isolation and to understand the effect of social isolation on maintaining traditional networks of social relations.

Design/methodology/approach

To do this, online ethnographic semi-structured interviews were carried out with a purposeful sample of non-infected Egyptians who have access to social media networks.

Findings

Although collectivism may be perceived as a risk factor in developing countries, it has positive effects on reducing the spread of COVID-19 among Egyptians through the preventive measures it entails. Increased fear, worries and anxiety about the family and in-group members is a limiting factor against the prevalence of the disease, despite the emotional hardships experienced by individuals.

Research limitations/implications

The sample interviewed does not refer to the entire Egyptian population, since the number of social media users represents 43.5% of Egyptians. Therefore, generalization of research data may be problematic.

Practical implications

The paper aims to raise awareness of the important of stressing collectivist character traits since they can help develop more preventive measures against the spread of the disease. Research findings also indicate that there is a need to coexist with the disease under controlled conditions to lessen the psychological risks of social isolation.

Originality/value

In light of the paucity of research carried out on COVID-19, the present research provides a pioneering insight into the meaning of social isolation in a collectivist culture and the distinctive local methods adopted by people to maintain their networks of social relations.
An optimal singularity-free motion planning method for a 6-DOF parallel manipulator
Authors: Li Shiqi , Chen Dong , Wang Junfeng
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to present a method of optimal singularity-free motion planning under multiple objectives and multiple constrains for the 6-DOF parallel manipulator, which is used as an execution mechanism for the automated docking of components.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the distribution characteristics of the Jacobian matrix determinant in local workspace are studied based on the kinematics and a sufficient and necessary condition of singularity-free path planning in local workspace is proposed. Then, a singularity-free motion path of the end-effector is generated by a fifth-order B-spline curve and the corresponding trajectories of each actuator are obtained via the inverse kinematics. Finally, several objective functions are defined to evaluate the motion path and an improved multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm-based on the Pareto archive evolution is developed to obtain the optimal singularity-free motion trajectories.

Findings

If the initial pose and the target pose of the end-effector are both singularity-free, a singularity-free motion path can be planned in the local workspace as long as all the values of each pose elements in their own directions are monotonous. The improved multi-objective particle swarm optimization (IMPSO) algorithm is effective and efficient in the optimization of multi-objective motion planning model. The optimal singularity-free motion path of the end-effector is verified in the component docking test. The docking result is that the movable component is in alignment with the fixed one, which proves the feasibility and practicability of the proposed motion path method to some extent.

Originality/value

The proposed method has a certain novelty value in kinematic multi-objective motion planning of parallel manipulators; it also increases the application prospect of parallel manipulators and provides attractive solutions to component assembly for those organizations with limited cost and that want to find an option that is effective to be implemented.
A dual-arm mobile robot system performing assistive tasks operated via P300-based brain computer interface
Authors: Gillini Giuseppe , Di Lillo Paolo , Arrichiello Filippo , Di Vito Daniele , Marino Alessandro , Antonelli Gianluca , Chiaverini Stefano
Published: December 2020

Purpose

In the past decade, more than 700 million people are affected by some kind of disability or handicap. In this context, the research interest in assistive robotics is growing up. For people with mobility impairments, daily life operations, as dressing or feeding, require the assistance of dedicated people; thus, the use of devices providing independent mobility can have a large impact on improving their life quality. The purpose of this paper is to present the development of a robotic system aimed at assisting people with this kind of severe motion disabilities by providing a certain level of autonomy.

Design/methodology/approach

The system is based on a hierarchical architecture where, at the top level, the user generates simple and high-level commands by resorting to a graphical user interface operated via a P300-based brain computer interface. These commands are ultimately converted into joint and Cartesian space tasks for the robotic system that are then handled by the robot motion control algorithm resorting to a set-based task priority inverse kinematic strategy. The overall architecture is realized by integrating control and perception software modules developed in the robots and systems environment with the BCI2000 framework, used to operate the brain–computer interfaces (BCI) device.

Findings

The effectiveness of the proposed architecture is validated through experiments where a user generates commands, via an Emotiv Epoc+ BCI, to perform assistive tasks that are executed by a Kinova MOVO robot, i.e. an omnidirectional mobile robotic platform equipped with two lightweight seven degrees of freedoms manipulators.

Originality/value

The P300 paradigm has been successfully integrated with a control architecture that allows us to command a complex robotic system to perform daily life operations. The user defines high-level commands via the BCI, letting all the low-level tasks, for example, safety-related tasks, to be handled by the system in a completely autonomous manner.
Digital access through smartphones and well-being of BoP women: insights from a field study in India
Authors: Parthiban Rishikesan , Jaikumar Saravana , Basak Jayanta , Bandyopadhyay Somprakash
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The authors study the effect of access to smartphones on the socio-economic well-being in the case of rural base of the pyramid (BoP) women. While smartphone access may have its benefits, the paper suggests augmenting access with a sociotechnical intermediary (STI) that facilitates training and online community building to enhance the well-being outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a survey from three groups of women from rural West Bengal (India) – (1) who do not own smartphones, (2) who have their own smartphones and (3) who receive smartphones and STI support (over two years). The authors evaluate the effect of access to smartphones and STI support on social well-being (including structural social capital and empowerment) and economic well-being (including entrepreneurial intent and subjective economic well-being).

Findings

The analysis results suggest a high relationship between smartphone ownership and higher structural social capital, empowerment (in terms of freedom of movement) and entrepreneurial intent. The authors further find these effects to be enhanced amongst women who received smartphones and support from STI.

Originality/value

The authors attribute this enhanced well-being amongst women with smartphones and STI support to peer-learning and cultivation of virtual role models facilitated by the STI through creation of intra-community online groups. The results have significant policy implications for socio-economic well-being of rural BoP women.
Intended use of IPO proceeds and initial returns
Authors: Ahmad-Zaluki Nurwati A. , Badru Bazeet Olayemi
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the effects of the intended use of initial public offerings (IPO) proceeds that is disclosed in the prospectus on IPO initial returns.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of IPOs listed on Bursa Malaysia from 2005 to 2015 is used. The intended use of IPO proceeds is categorised into three uses, namely, growth opportunities, debt repayment and working capital. In addition to ordinary least squares regression, the study applies a more sophisticated and robust approach using the quantile regression technique.

Findings

The results show that the intended use of IPO proceeds for growth opportunities and working capital is positively associated with IPO initial returns, whereas debt repayment is negatively associated with IPO initial returns. When the intended use of IPO proceeds for growth opportunities is further expanded into capital expenditure (CAPEX) and research and development (R&D), the intended use of IPO proceeds for CAPEX is positively associated with IPO initial returns, whereas R&D is negatively associated with IPO initial returns.

Research limitations/implications

These findings suggest that intended use of IPO proceeds provides useful information about IPO initial returns and investors can use this information as guidance to make informed decisions. In addition, regulatory authorities should pay close attention to the amount allocated to each intended use of IPO proceeds as this may play a critical role in the success of a company and the economy.

Originality/value

This study gives new empirical evidence on the desire and motivations of IPO and the usefulness of designated use of IPO proceeds disclosed in the prospectus in explaining IPO initial returns.
Learning to support and sustain cultural (and linguistic) diversity: perspectives of preservice teachers
Authors: Senyshyn Roxanna , Martinelli Ann
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report on a collaborative project and study implemented by two teacher educators in an elementary education program. To prepare teacher candidates for field experiences and practicum in a diverse (bilingual) urban school, the program uses coursework to impart asset-based pedagogies and practices.

Design/methodology/approach

In this mixed-method case study, this paper examined the awareness and perspectives of preservice teachers (n= 26) to cultural and linguistic diversity and relevant teaching and learning practices. In particular, this study gauged their engagement with multicultural children’s literature in a collaborative interclass activity. The data sources included beginning and end of semester survey responses, notes on participant interactions during the mid-semester collaborative interclass activity and participant retrospective reflections about the activity.

Findings

This paper found that teacher candidates showed increased awareness and positive shifts in perspectives. This study also ascertaind that, in learning to become culturally (and linguistically) responsive and sustaining teachers, they benefited from collaborative peer work that focused on learning about multicultural children’s literature, analyzing it and planning to integrate it into their classrooms.

Originality/value

Studies show that culturally relevant literature in schools is beneficial; however, teacher candidates often lack knowledge of such literature and how to use it. This need is especially critical and relevant when learning about and implementing culturally relevant and sustaining practices. The collaborative undertaking discussed in this study fills this gap through co-teaching and interclass activity that brings preservice teachers as a cohort to collaboratively learn about, discuss, reflect on and plan lessons as they prepare to work with students from different backgrounds than their own.
False binaries in management history, and the scope for a postcolonial project
Authors: Srinivas Nidhi
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This study aims to offer a postcolonial approach that goes past current management history controversies.

Design/methodology/approach

Discussion of current management history controversies with examples.

Findings

Post-colonial approaches to management history enable engagement with questions of power and knowledge in the management discipline.

Research limitations/implications

Further historical research is needed that considers the interplay of disciplinary knowledge and the historical events under question, especially in post-colonial settings.

Practical implications

It is essential to engage with historical texts and interpretations to better understand the contextual limitations to management as a discipline: a better understanding of disciplinary pasts enables us to better understand the present.

Social implications

By considering management’s pasts, this paper can acknowledge more closely how the discipline continues to retain colonialist assumptions that need to be challenged and changed.

Originality/value

Examples of management history from formerly colonized regions.
Phytochemical composition and pharmacological impact of natural non-calorie sweetener- monk fruit (Siraitia grosvenorii): a review
Authors: Suri Shweta , Kathuria Deepika , Mishra Anusha , Sharma Rajan
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the biological activities of low-calorie natural sweetener, i.e. monk fruit (Siraitia grosvenorii), which are associated with its bioactive constituents.

Design/methodology/approach

Recent investigations focused on biochemical characterization and nutraceutical potential of monk fruit (traditional Chinese perennial vine) have been critically reviewed. Also, the safety and influence of monk fruit on organoleptic characteristics of prepared food products have been documented.

Findings

Biochemistry of monk fruit revealed that mogrosides are the principal compounds responsible for the high-intensity sweetness in the monk fruit. The fruit induces several biological activities including anti-oxidative effect, hypoglycemic response, anti-allergic properties, anti-carcinogenic and anti-tissue damage activities. Attributing to great potential as a bio-functional sweetener in food products, monk fruit extract has been approved as Generally Regarded as Safe.

Originality/value

This paper highlights the biological potential of monk fruit opening the doors to future investigations for its utilization in products of commercial importance including food and pharmaceutical preparations.
Do financial analysts discourage or encourage corporate fraud? Empirical evidence from China
Authors: Liu Hui , Yang Bei , Zhang Junrui
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to focus on the role of financial analysts in corporate fraud in the Chinese stock market.

Design/methodology/approach

Data on the analyst coverage and all the types of corporate fraud were obtained for 16,284 company-year observations of Chinese companies. The sample was subsequently divided into those of state-owned enterprises, before and after financial crisis.

Findings

The overall results indicate that analyst coverage effectively deters the occurrence of fraud. The sub-sample results suggest that the impact of analysts on deterring fraud is more pronounced in non-state-owned enterprises, especially after the financial crisis. The path analyses show that analyst coverage can deter corporate frauds by affecting information transparency and investor attention. Furthermore, the results show that the deterrence role of financial analysts varies with fraud types: it is more pronounced in deterring disclosure fraud, but not as effective in illegal guarantees and illegal insider dealing. Moreover, analyst coverage can deter the occurrence of fictitious reporting, intentional postponement and material omission.

Originality/value

This paper not only examined the overall fraud probability but also taking into consideration the heterogeneity of the information availability and research focus of financial analysts and examined the analysts’ impact on the occurrence of difference types of fraud. Moreover, this paper explored why financial analysts can deter corporate frauds through path analyses.
Using simple estimates for the flexural stiffness of thick FDM beams based on sandwich beam models
Authors: Tapia Córdoba Alejandro , García Vallejo Daniel , Millán Gata Pablo , Abascal Jaime Domínguez
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The incipient growth of the fused deposition modeling (FDM) techniques encourages the development of models to predict the behavior of these parts involving complicated and heterogeneous geometries whose behavior strongly diverges from the continuous model hypothesis. This paper aims to address the problem of predicting the flexural properties of FDM parts building on the geometrical similarity between a typical FDM part and a sandwich panel.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper takes advantage of the morphological similarity between FDM structures and composite sandwich panels. Thus, an approach based on classic sandwich theory is developed to validate its goodness to predict the flexural behavior of FDM parts. A set of tensile and flexural tests for FDM parts were conducted varying the density of the core pattern (10%, 15%, 20% and 25%), being the proposed model and the predicted results validated.

Findings

The results showed a good accordance between the predicted values of stiffness and the experimental data. Although this is especially evidenced for low infill density values, for densities above 20% the experimental values noticeably exceed the maximum predicted stiffness, which can be explained by the non-compliance of the foil honeycomb hypothesis for high-density patterns. The main implication of these findings lies in the possibility of using advanced models from thin-foil structures as a base to develop accurate analytical approaches to model FDM structures.

Originality/value

Although the experimental characterization of FDM parts has been a matter of study in the literature, the development of robust theoretical models that consider the influence of the particular morphology of these parts is still a challenge in this field. The approach proposed in this study constitutes the first step to develop a complete analytical model to predict the complex behavior of FDM printed parts.
Power asymmetry, egalitarianism and team learning – part II: empirical examination of the moderating role of environmental hardship
Authors: Sinha Ruchi , Stothard Christina
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to clarify under which conditions, and via what mechanisms, power asymmetry is likely to affect team learning. This work is part of a two-paper series. Part I presents the theoretical arguments linking power asymmetry to team learning via egalitarianism and the moderating role of environmental hardship. In Part II, the authors provide an empirical evaluation of the conceptual model presented in Part I.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was gathered on 4,637 military personnel nested in 143 ongoing teams. Multiple regression analysis was used to analyze the proposed moderated mediation model. The results show that under higher levels of environmental hardship, teams with higher power asymmetry (greater hierarchy) show greater team egalitarianism and higher team learning.

Findings

The results show that under higher levels of environmental hardship, teams with higher power asymmetry (greater hierarchy) show greater team egalitarianism and higher team learning.

Research limitations/implications

The empirical examination of the proposed relationships is based on a large sample of military teams in the real world. Future research would benefit from testing the model on different samples across industries and adopting different operationalizations for environmental hardship relevant to each industry.

Originality/value

This work provides insights to help practitioners to preserve the coordination benefits of hierarchy, while still promoting more egalitarianism and team learning in hierarchical teams.