bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of coronavirus and online exam anxiety on self-efficacy: the moderating role of coping strategy
Authors: Arora Simple , Chaudhary Priya , Singh Reetesh Kr
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The novel coronavirus pandemic is projected to cause an elevation in anxiety levels across the globe. With everything shifting to online mode, the teaching-learning has also gone virtual. This study aims to analyze the impact of novel coronavirus and online education on student’s anxiety and self-efficacy, investigate the role of coping strategies as a moderator between anxiety and self-efficacy. Also, develop and validate an online exam anxiety scale.

Design/methodology/approach

The data is collected by undertaking a cross-sectional survey of 434 higher education students from various universities. For conceptualization of the construct of online exam anxiety, the principal component analysis is carried out. Thereafter, the conceptual model is validated and tested using confirmatory factor analysis and hierarchical regression analysis.

Findings

The hypothesized model demonstrated good reliability and validity. The results showed that students’ anxiety has an adverse impact on their self-efficacy. Findings indicate that the sample in this study reported more anxiety owing to online examinations in comparison to coronavirus induced anxiety. Also, it was found that the relationship between anxiety and self-efficacy was stronger at low levels of coping strategy whereas it got considerably weakened at high levels of coping strategy.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited to students who belong at other levels of education. Further studies can attempt to capture the impact of COVID on student anxiety. This study was restricted to students in the age group of 18–25. The impact of COVID can be studied in a different age group in the future.

Practical implications

This study offers important implications for educators, practitioners and policymakers working in the education sector. It presents an interesting insight into how the sudden change in pedagogical delivery to online mode is preventing a smooth transition for students and becoming a cause of anxiety. It recommends higher education institutions to develop an innovative and robust approach to promote and address mental health issues among students. It also stresses the need for ensuring that the process of conducting online examinations are streamlined and adequate guidance is given to students.

Social implications

The study proposes the need for training students and teachers on the application of an blended learning approach and efficient adoption of information and communication technology resources in teaching-learning.

Originality/value

The current study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by stressing that adaptive-behavioral and emotion-focused coping strategies are significantly helpful in tackling coronavirus related anxiety. It also recommends the need for Higher education institutions to play an active role in strengthening their preparedness strategies for effective management of outbreaks and pandemics.
A new approach to stimulate rural entrepreneurship through village-owned enterprises in Indonesia
Authors: Kania Ikeu , Anggadwita Grisna , Alamanda Dini Turipanam
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Village-owned enterprises, in this study called Badan Usaha Milik Desa (BUMDes), are rural communities economic empowerment program developed by the Indonesian Government to encourage the growth of rural entrepreneurship by using the potential of locally owned resources. However, the implementation and effect of the BUMDes program are questionable. Thus, this study aims to investigate the role of BUMDes in encouraging rural entrepreneurship and strengthening rural economic development. In addition, this study also explores challenges in implementing the BUMDes program.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a qualitative method with a case study approach. Data were obtained through in-depth interviews using purposive sampling techniques to key people in management at five BUMDes in Garut Regency, West Java, Indonesia, which have successfully implemented the BUMDes program.

Findings

The findings of this study indicate that BUMDes are proven to encourage rural entrepreneurship with the dimensions of exploration and empowerment, capacity building and the support and involvement of all stakeholders. BUMDes were established in accordance with government policies based on the village discussion process as the culture of the Indonesian people by involving elements of the village government, associations and the community. However, the challenges in implementing BUMDes are still faced by managers including implementation and regulatory mismatches, lack of qualified human resources and lack of synergy between the village government and BUMDes.

Research limitations/implications

In this study, the development of a local economic empowerment program as a driver of rural entrepreneurship is carried out in the Indonesian context. In addition, based on the unique nature of case studies, making this study can only be implemented in cases that have similar characteristics. Therefore, in the context of other countries, it can be done by modifying the results obtained based on the conditions and potential of each region.

Originality/value

Although recognition of entrepreneurship is one of the main determinants of rural economic development, empirical research in this area is relatively rare. Thus, this study adds a new perspective on the BUMDes program as an effort to grow rural entrepreneurship.
Prevention through design: conceptual models for the assessment of a principal designer’s skills, knowledge and experience
Authors: Adaku Ebenezer , Ankrah Nii A. , Ndekugri Issaka E.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The prevention through design (PtD) initiative places a duty on designers to originate designs that are inherently safe for construction, maintenance, occupation and demolition. In the UK, legislation has been introduced creating a new statutory role called the principal designer (PD) to ensure that PtD occurs during the design process. To realize this objective, PDs under the regulations must have appropriate skills, knowledge and experience (SKE) of occupational safety and health risks as they relate to construction products. However, there is a paucity of knowledge, in the extant literature and in practice, regarding what specifically constitutes PDs’ SKE of PtD and how to measure the same.

Design/methodology/approach

The study undertook a systematic review of meanings of SKE and carried out content analyses to provide robust conceptualizations of the constructs SKE. This underpinned the development of nomological networks to operationalize the constructs SKE in respect of PDs’ ability to ensure PtD.

Findings

PDs’ SKE of PtD are presented as multidimensional constructs that can be operationalized at different levels of specificity in three theoretical models.

Practical implications

The models indicated in this study can assist project clients to clarify the PtD SKE of prospective PDs in the procurement process. Correspondingly, PDs can look to these frameworks to identify their SKE gaps and take steps to address them.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the PtD literature by providing theoretical frameworks to clarify the PtD SKE of PDs. The study provides a basis for future research to empirically test the attributes of these as they relate to PDs’ competence to ensure PtD.
A framework for understanding artificial intelligence research: insights from practice
Authors: Bawack Ransome Epie , Fosso Wamba Samuel , Carillo Kevin Daniel André
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The current evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) practices and applications is creating a disconnection between modern-day information system (IS) research and practices. The purpose of this study is to propose a classification framework that connects the IS discipline to contemporary AI practices.

Design/methodology/approach

We conducted a review of practitioner literature to derive our framework's key dimensions. We reviewed 103 documents on AI published by 25 leading technology companies ranked in the 2019 list of Fortune 500 companies. After that, we reviewed and classified 110 information system (IS) publications on AI using our proposed framework to demonstrate its ability to classify IS research on AI and reveal relevant research gaps.

Findings

Practitioners have adopted different definitional perspectives of AI (field of study, concept, ability, system), explaining the differences in the development, implementation and expectations from AI experienced today. All these perspectives suggest that perception, comprehension, action and learning are the four capabilities AI artifacts must possess. However, leading IS journals have mostly published research adopting the “AI as an ability” perspective of AI with limited theoretical and empirical studies on AI adoption, use and impact.

Research limitations/implications

First, the framework is based on the perceptions of AI by a limited number of companies, although it includes all the companies leading current AI practices. Secondly, the IS literature reviewed is limited to a handful of journals. Thus, the conclusions may not be generalizable. However, they remain true for the articles reviewed, and they all come from well-respected IS journals.

Originality/value

This is the first study to consider the practitioner's AI perspective in designing a conceptual framework for AI research classification. The proposed framework and research agenda are used to show how IS could become a reference discipline in contemporary AI research.
The high performance organization: proposed definition and measurement of its performance
Authors: Waal André de
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to arrive at a general definition of an HPO and a (practical) way to measure an HPO. Managers are looking for techniques to strengthen their organizations in a way that they cannot only cope with threats but could also quickly take advantage of opportunities, and thus, grow and thrive. The academic and especially the practitioner fields reacted on this “thirst for high performance knowledge” with a plethora of books and articles on the topic of high performance organizations (HPOs). These publications each came with their own description and measurement of HPOs, which created a lot of confusion among practitioners.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study the following reserach question is answered: how can an HPO be defined and its performance measured? So that with the answer, this paper can take away the aforementioned confusion. This paper does this by conducting an extensive systematic review of the literature on HPO, after which this paper synthesizes the findings into a proposal on how to define and measure the HPO.

Findings

This paper was able to obtain from the literature a list of definitions and measurements for an HPO. The common denominator in these definitions and measurements turned out to be respondents given their opinion on the effects of the organizational practices they apply on organizational performance vis-à-vis that of competitors. This paper concluded therefore that an HPO should be defined and measured relative to competitors and should be based on the perception of managers and employees of the organization: An HPO is an organization that achieves results that are better than those of its peer group over a longer period of time.

Research limitations/implications

With the answer on the research question, this paper fills the current gap in the definition and measurement literature on HPOs, and thus, has moved the research into HPOs forward, as researchers can use these research results in their future studies on high performance and HPOs.

Originality/value

Although there is a plethora of literature on high performance and HPOs no univocal definition and measurement of the HPO can be found. This study provides for the first time an academically well-founded definition and measurement method.
Recycled construction and demolition waste material: a cost–benefit analysis under uncertainty
Authors: Tseng Ming-Lang , Jeng Shiou-Yun , Lin Chun-Wei , Lim Ming K.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Construction and demolition waste (CDW) continuously causes environmental and social problems. These formidable challenges lead to sustainable issues and are an increasingly urgent issue worldwide. Prior studies have neglected to link the triple bottom line (TBL) to a reliable estimation or empirical model for estimating CDW production performance and lack empirical sensitivity analysis in profit maximization. This study proposes an attribute analysis to build a cost–benefit analysis (CBA) to obtain profit maximization.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses fuzzy set theory to develop a cost and benefit analysis (CBA) model to assess the sensitivity analysis in terms of its performance on addressing the environmental, economic and social aspects. The model is used to weigh the sum of benefits such as financial gain and total costs of actions taken to mitigate the negative impacts.

Findings

Based on the sensitivity analysis conducted, the environmental, economic and social mean scales were significantly changed, i.e. increased, and profits increased drastically. The results provide an insight into environmental legislation compliance, environmental investment and environmental impact as the cause attributes for the CDW recycling profit increase. The results prove that sensitivity analysis is viable to infer that a sustainable production performance can achieve more revenue and profit through an adequate selection of attributes regarding the TBL aspects to address the firm's uncertainty problem in multiple criteria analysis.

Originality/value

This study builds a CBA model to maximize profits for recycled CDW material by linking of environmental, economic and societal aspects for recycled CDW assessments. It considers a sustainability structure with criteria based on TBL aspects to assess production performance to realize the Sustainable Development Goals and presents fuzzy set theory and sensitivity analysis to solve the uncertainty problem in the construction industry.
Why do employees struggle to thrive in the workplaces? A look at the impact of abusive supervision
Authors: Usman Muhammd , Liu Yuxin , Zhang Jianwei , Ghani Usman , Gul Habib
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Based on the conservation of resources view, the objective of this paper is to examine the relationship between abusive supervision and workplace thriving. Further, this study investigates the underlying mechanisms role of agentic work behaviors (i.e. task focus, heedful relating) and moderating role of employee's core self-evaluations.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a time-lag approach, data are collected from 360 full-time employees enrolled in an executive development program in a large university of China. To test the proposed model, data analysis is carried out through Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS) and Analysis of Moment Structures (AMOS).

Findings

The results show that abusive supervision negatively influences workplace thriving. Further, the findings also confirm the mediating role of agentic work behaviors and the moderating role of core self-evaluations between the relationship of abusive supervision and thriving.

Practical implications

Based on study findings, this study draws the attention of managers toward the new deleterious outcomes of abusive supervision. Hence, to nurture a thriving workforce, organizations should keep abusive behaviors under keen observations to minimize their frequent occurrences. Further, it is proposed that hiring employees with higher core self-evaluations can mitigate the injurious effect of abusive supervision.

Originality/value

This is the first attempt to our knowledge to untapped the abusive supervision-thriving relationship via the underlying mechanisms of two agentic work behavior's and core self-evaluations as a moderator enriches the extant body of knowledge and provide valuable insight into the abusive supervision and workplace thriving literature.
Understanding how team process-sequences emerge over time and their relationship to team performance
Authors: Georganta Eleni , Burke C. Shawn , Merk Stephanie , Mann Franziska
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to explore the team process-sequences executed within and across performance episodes and their relation to team performance. In doing so, this effort responds to the call for examining the temporal and dynamic aspects of teams.

Design/methodology/approach

Data (i.e. observations and audio recordings) was collected from the stand-up meetings of three high-performing Scrum teams across six points in time during two consecutive performance episodes (i.e. beginning, midpoint, end). After content coding the data, lag sequential analyses was used to examine patterns of executed team processes to determine whether particular process-sequences occurred significantly different from others.

Findings

Teams shifted between transition and action phase processes during performance episodes. During and across performance episodes, process-sequences primarily consisted of transition processes. When teams executed process-sequences consisting solely of action phase processes, their focus was on monitoring processes.

Research limitations/implications

This study hopes that the findings here will serve to spur researchers to more fully investigate the relationship between process-sequences and team performance across various team types. However, limitations (e.g. small sample size, unknown point of teams’ life cycle and focus on explicit team processes) should be taken into account when building on the present findings.

Originality/value

This study contributes to a better understanding of the temporal and dynamic nature of team processes by analyzing how the team process and process-sequences occur across time. In addition, this study moves beyond most studies that assess team processes as static retrospective perceptions and consider their natural ordering.
Job crafting and psychological capital: a multi-level study of their effects on innovative work behaviour
Authors: Uen Jin-Feng , Vandavasi Rama Krishna Kishore , Lee Kun , Yepuru Prasanthi , Saini Vipin
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This study aims to test the cross-level effects of team job crafting on individual innovative work behaviour (IWB) and the mediating role of team psychological capital (PsyCap).

Design/methodology/approach

This longitudinal study tested a multilevel design in a sample of 163 employees, clustered into 45 teams. Job crafting and PsyCap were aggregated to the team level to examine the effects of team job crafting Time 1 on individual IWB Time 2. In addition, mediation analysis was tested to determine whether team-level job crafting Time 1 can affect individual IWB Time 2 through team PsyCap Time 2.

Findings

Results found that team job crafting was positively related to individual IWB, and the relationship was mediated by team PsyCap.

Practical implications

This study includes implications for adopting job crafting behaviour at the team level to improve individual IWB.

Originality/value

This cross-level study is the first to verify the effects of team job crafting on individual IWB and team PsyCap as a mediator. This study extends the literature on job crafting by using a multilevel design in the analysis.
Transformational leadership: an antecedent for organizational effectiveness in Indian banks
Authors: Tayal Ritu , Upadhyay Rajesh Kumar , Singh Reena
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to empirically explore the connection between transformational leadership (TL) and organizational effectiveness (OE). Also, the paper looks at the mediating impact of employee innovative behaviour (EIB) and the moderating effect of knowledge sharing (KS) on the aforementioned association.

Design/methodology/approach

The respondents included 410 bank employees from North India. The mediating effect of EIB and moderating effect of KS was explored by plug-in for SPSS, PROCESS Macro (Hayes).

Findings

The investigation demonstrated that there exists a significant relationship between the constructs under examination. Further, it was seen that EIB mediated and KS moderated the connection between TL and OE.

Practical implications

Looking at the associations among TL, KS, EIB and OE can have significant implications for organizations. The considered framework as proposed can be used to outline organizational practices, to frame organizational policies and to build a pool of innovative employees who will in turn enhance OE.

Originality/value

The general comprehension of the associations among TL, KS, EIB and OE is insufficient in existing literature. This examination expands on past studies by examining the mediating role of the EIB and moderating role of KS between TL and OE. The present work is one of the rare attempts to investigate this nested association in the Indian context.
The plasticity of the germinative response in the populations of two xeric species inhabiting two contrasting environments of central Mexico
Authors: Martínez‐Villegas Jorge A. , Castillo‐Argüero Silvia , Márquez‐Guzmán Judith , Orozco‐Segovia Alma
Published: February 2021

The species' germination response evolves based on its population environment; therefore, the responses of each local population evolve independently. We investigated two xeric species from central Mexico, Echeveria gibbiflora and Penstemon campanulatus, the populations of which inhabit two localities (Reserva Ecológica del Pedregal de San Ángel [REPSA] and Parque Ecológico de la Ciudad de México [PECM]) that differ in environmental conditions. For both species and populations, final germination, cardinal temperatures, thermal time and range of temperature for germination (RTG) were determined in seeds that were (a) collected recently, (b) stored in a laboratory for 2 months and (c) reciprocally buried in field conditions for 2 months. The results indicated that for both species, seed population, laboratory storage and temperature were significant for final germination. These responses indicated differences in germination based primarily on the site in P. campanulatus (PECM seeds germinated at higher percentages than REPSA seeds) and the burial site in the REPSA seeds of E. gibbiflora. Cluster and discriminant analyses were conducted for both species, identifying the following significant variables for group treatments: base temperature between the stored and buried seeds of E. gibbiflora and the ceiling temperature between the recently collected, stored and buried seeds of P. campanulatus. The results suggest that instead of seed population, burial (in both species) and laboratory storage (in P. campanulatus) narrowed the RTG. These responses could indicate plasticity in both germination and dormancy in response to environmental conditions experienced in the different habitats, which are crucial for understanding species' adaptive capacity.
Proteolytic enzymes in the salivary glands of the Neotropical brown stink bugEuschistus heros: Reduced activities in imidacloprid‐resistant strains
Authors: Perez Campos Johan S. , Meriño‐Cabrera Yaremis B. , Mantilla‐Afanador Javier G. , Lima Graziela D. A. , Barbosa Samuel L. , Vital Camilo E. , Barros Rafael , Rodrigues‐Junior Neilier , Oliveira Eugênio E. , Oliveira Maria G. A.
Published: February 2021

Proteases present in the salivary glands of phytosuccivorous insects are responsible for the initial breakdown of dietary protein into the amino acids necessary for insect growth and development. Here, we characterised the total proteases and trypsin‐like activities in the salivary glands of the Neotropical brown stink bug,Euschistus heros(F.) and used in silico and biochemical approaches to determine the interactions between trypsin‐like enzymes and the soybean Kunitz trypsin inhibitor (SKTI). Additionally, we evaluated whether these enzyme activities were affected in individuals resistant to the actions of the insecticide imidacloprid. We used an originally field‐collected strain to select individuals resistant to imidacloprid alone (ImiGoiasRes) or synergised with piperonyl butoxide (ImiPBORes). A laboratory‐susceptible (ImiSusc) strain was also used to select piperonyl butoxide synergised imidacloprid‐resistant (ImiPBOSel) individuals. Our results revealed that pH and temperature significantly affected the specific trypsin‐like activities in imidacloprid‐susceptible individuals. Significant alterations in the total protease activities were recorded for field‐ (ImiGoiasRes) and laboratory‐selected imidacloprid‐resistant individuals (ImiPBOSelandImiPBORes). Our computational docking analysis demonstrated that the molecular interactions and the presence of the SKTI inhibitor (0.5 mg mL−1) could reduce up to 40% of the trypsin‐like activities of imidacloprid‐susceptible individuals. However, all imidacloprid‐resistant strains exhibited significantly less trypsin‐like activities and exhibited lower hydrolysing velocity (VMAX) and affinity (KM) rates, and the prior exposure to SKTI only synergised the imidacloprid toxicity for individuals ofImiFieldResstrain. Collectively, our findings demonstrate, for the first time, insecticide resistance detrimentally affected the activities of proteolytic enzymes in phytosuccivorous stink bug pests.
Decreased p53 is associated with a decline in asymmetric stem cell self‐renewal in aged human epidermis
Authors: Charruyer Alexandra , Weisenberger Tracy , Li Hang , Khalifa Ayman , Schroeder Andrew W. , Belzer Annika , Ghadially Ruby
Published: February 2021

With age, the epidermis becomes hypoplastic and hypoproliferative. Hypoproliferation due to aging has been associated with decreased stem cell (SC) self‐renewal in multiple murine tissues. The fate of SC self‐renewal divisions can be asymmetric (one SC, one committed progenitor) or symmetric (two SCs). Increased asymmetric SC self‐renewal has been observed in inflammatory‐mediated hyperproliferation, while increased symmetric SC self‐renewal has been observed in cancers. We analyzed SC self‐renewal divisions in aging human epidermis to better understand the role of SCs in the hypoproliferation of aging. In human subjects, neonatal to 78 years, there was an age‐dependent decrease in epidermal basal layer divisions. The balance of SC self‐renewal shifted toward symmetric SC self‐renewal, with a decline in asymmetric SC self‐renewal. Asymmetric SC divisions maintain epidermal stratification, and this decrease may contribute to the hypoplasia of aging skin. P53 decreases in multiple tissues with age, and p53 has been shown to promote asymmetric SC self‐renewal. Fewer aged than adult ALDH+CD44+ keratinocyte SCs exhibited p53 expression and activity and Nutlin‐3 (a p53 activator) returned p53 activity as well as asymmetric SC self‐renewal divisions to adult levels. Nutlin‐3 increased Notch signaling (NICD, Hes1) and DAPT inhibition of Notch activation prevented Nutlin‐3 (p53)‐induced asymmetric SC self‐renewal divisions in aged keratinocytes. These studies indicate a role for p53 in the decreased asymmetric SC divisions with age and suggest that in aged keratinocytes, Notch is required for p53‐induced asymmetric SC divisions.
Metformin inhibits chronic kidney disease‐induced DNA damage and senescence of mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Kim Hyoungnae , Yu Mi Ra , Lee Haekyung , Kwon Soon Hyo , Jeon Jin Seok , Han Dong Cheol , Noh Hyunjin
Published: February 2021

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are promising source of cell‐based regenerative therapy. In consideration of the risk of allosensitization, autologous MSC‐based therapy is preferred over allogenic transplantation in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, it remains uncertain whether adequate cell functionality is maintained under uremic conditions. As chronic inflammation and oxidative stress in CKD may lead to the accumulation of senescent cells, we investigated cellular senescence of CKD MSCs and determined the effects of metformin on CKD‐associated cellular senescence in bone marrow MSCs from sham‐operated and subtotal nephrectomized mice and further explored in adipose tissue‐derived MSCs from healthy kidney donors and patients with CKD. CKD MSCs showed reduced proliferation, accelerated senescence, and increased DNA damage as compared to control MSCs. These changes were significantly attenuated following metformin treatment. Lipopolysaccharide and transforming growth factor β1‐treated HK2 cells showed lower tubular expression of proinflammatory and fibrogenesis markers upon co‐culture with metformin‐treated CKD MSCs than with untreated CKD MSCs, suggestive of enhanced paracrine action of CKD MSCs mediated by metformin. In unilateral ureteral obstruction kidneys, metformin‐treated CKD MSCs more effectively attenuated inflammation and fibrosis as compared to untreated CKD MSCs. Thus, metformin preconditioning may exhibit a therapeutic benefit by targeting accelerated senescence of CKD MSCs.
Estimation of vertebral heart size and cardiothoracic ratio in Persian cats
Authors: Sak Dilsat , Pazvant Gulsun
Published: February 2021

The study aimed to determine the reference values related to vertebral heart size (VHS) and cardiothoracic ratio (CTR), which are effective in the evaluation of the thorax diseases and especially cardiomegaly of the brachycephalic cats using the morphometric data of thorax and heart obtained from the radiographic images of the thoracic region of the Persian cats. It was determined that lying position during radiography did not affect VHS and CTR values. Also, the sex factor did not have a significance on these values. The fact that the VHS value of 8.16 thoracic vertebrae averagely found in the Persian cats is higher than 7.5 thoracic vertebrae value averagely stated in the studies conducted with the cats of different breeds is considered since the breed is brachycephalic.
Risk stratification after acute myocardial infarction by amplitude–frequency mapping of cyclic variation of heart rate
Authors: Hayano Junichiro , Ueda Norihiro , Kisohara Masaya , Yuda Emi , Watanabe Eiichi , Carney Robert M. , Blumenthal James A.
Published: February 2021

Background

Blunted cyclic variation of heart rate (CVHR), measured as a decrease in CVHR amplitude (Acv), predicts mortality risk after acute myocardial infarction (AMI). However, Acv also can be reduced in mild sleep apnea with mild O2 desaturation. We investigated whether Acv's predictive power for post‐AMI mortality could be improved by considering the effect of sleep apnea severity.

Methods

In 24‐hr ECG in 265,291 participants of the Allostatic State Mapping by Ambulatory ECG Repository project, sleep apnea severity was estimated by the frequency of CVHR (Fcv) measured by an automated algorithm for auto‐correlated wave detection by adaptive threshold (ACAT). The distribution of Acv on the Acv–Fcv relation map was modeled by percentile regression, and a function converting Acv into percentile value was developed. In the retrospective cohort of the Enhancing Recovery in Coronary Heart Disease (ENRICHD) study, consisting of 673 survivors and 44 non‐survivors after AMI, the mortality predictive power of percentile Acv calculated by the function was compared with that of unadjusted Acv.

Results

Among the ALLSTAR ECG data, low Acv values appeared more likely when Fcv was low. The logistic regression analysis for mortality in the ENRICHD cohort showed c‐statistics of 0.667 (SE, 0.041), 0.817 (0.035), and 0.843 (0.030) for Fcv, unadjusted Acv, and the percentile Acv, respectively. Compared with unadjusted Acv, the percentile Acv showed a significant net reclassification improvement of 0.90 (95% CI, 0.51–1.42).

Conclusions

The predictive power of Acv for post‐AMI mortality is improved by considering its relation to sleep apnea severity estimated by Fcv.
Initiation Plants in Drug Addiction Treatment: The Purgahuasca Therapy
Authors: Horák Miroslav , Verter Nahanga , Somerlíková Kristina
Published: February 2021

This article focuses on the utilization of Banisteriopsis caapi in drug addiction treatment. The primary research was carried out in Takiwasi Center for the Rehabilitation of Drug Addicts and Research on Traditional Medicines. A preparation from B. caapi, also known as purgahuasca, that is being used in the center was initially administered during initiation rituals by the Awajún (Aguaruna) people in northern Peru. This paper describes the purgahuasca ritual and its distribution among the Awajún people. Our findings reveal that between 68.2% and 86.5% of respondents recognize the importance of the purgahuasca ritual to their recovery. Appropriate conservation tools must be created to preserve the purgahuasca ritual for future generations, as it represents a useful therapeutic tool and an important part of the intangible cultural heritage of Peru.
An artificial anal sphincter based on a novel clamping mechanism: Design, analysis, and testing
Authors: Han Ding , Yan Guozheng , Wang Zhiwu , Jiang Pingping , Liu Dasheng , Zhao Kai , Ma Jin
Published: February 2021

An artificial anal sphincter is a device to help patients with fecal incontinence rebuild the ability to control the excrement through the anus. In this article, an artificial anal sphincter based on a novel clamping mechanism (AASNCM) is proposed to improve the safety and reliability. The AASNCM, which is powered by a transcutaneous energy transfer system, consists of a novel clamping mechanism, a receiving coil and a control unit. According to design requirements, the novel clamping mechanism model was established. After that, its kinematics and dynamics were analyzed. The results of force tests on the prototype AASNCM show that the maximum values of clamping force and expanding force are 15.859 and 31.029 N, respectively. Comparing the experimental results with theoretical analysis, a good match can be concluded. Finally, in vitro experiments were conducted, and have verified the safety and reliability of the proposed AASNCM.
Researcher self‐care and caring in the research community
Authors: Jones Craig Henry , Whittle Rebecca
Published: February 2021

This paper seeks to begin a discussion on researcher self‐care in response to the state of contemporary academia, which sees increasing issues of academic stress and anxiety, and the growing use of facile metrics. Specifically, we wish to explore the potential a critical engagement with self‐care poses for ourselves as academics and the communities of which we are a part – what kinpaisby (2008) refers to as the “communiversity.” Our central argument is that self‐care may be regarded as a radical act that can push against the interests of the neoliberal university. We illustrate how researcher self‐care can be engaged as a reflexive process that operates to create and inform change within our communities through recognising ourselves as networked actors, rather than self‐contained individuals as the neoliberal ideology would have us believe. This paper is intended as an opening towards a much larger discussion regarding academia – of the communities, work environments, and “impacts” we wish to be a part of and how to begin working towards realising these.
On the impairment argument
Authors: Simkulet William
Published: February 2021

Most opposition to abortion stands or falls on whether a fetus is the sort of being whose life it is seriously wrong to end. In her influential paper ‘A defense of abortion,’ Judith Jarvis Thomson effectively sidesteps this issue, assuming the fetus is a person with the right to life yet arguing this alone does not give it the right to use the mother’s body. In a recent article, Perry Hendricks takes inspiration from Thomson and assumes the fetus is not a person, arguing that abortion is wrong because causing fetal impairment is wrong and abortion is worse than causing fetal impairment. Here I argue Hendricks’ impairment argument fails. For Hendricks, risking fetal impairment is wrong because it risks harm to a future person, but if we assume the fetus is not a person, abortion doesn’t harm anyone, it merely prevents them from existing.
Paediatric and adolescent asthma: A narrative review of telemedicine and emerging technologies for the post‐COVID‐19 era
Authors: Davies Benjamin , Kenia Priti , Nagakumar Prasad , Gupta Atul
Published: February 2021

Children and young people with asthma need regular monitoring to maintain good asthma control, prevent asthma attacks and manage comorbidities. The COVID‐19 pandemic has resulted in healthcare professionals making fundamental changes to the way healthcare is delivered and for patients and families adapting to these changes. Comprehensive remotely delivered, technology‐based healthcare, closer to the patients home (reducing hospital footfall and possibly reducing carbon footprint) is likely to be one of the important collateral effects of the pandemic. Telemedicine is anticipated to impact everyone involved in healthcare ‐ providers and patients alike. It is going to bring changes to organization, work areas and work culture in healthcare. Healthcare providers, policymakers and those accessing healthcare services will experience the impact of technology‐based healthcare delivery. Telemedicine can play an exciting role in the management of childhood asthma by delivering high‐quality care closer to the child's home. However, unlike adults, children still need to be accompanied by their carers for virtual care. Policymakers will need to take into account potential additional costs as well as the legal, ethical and cultural implications of large scale use of telemedicine. In this narrative review, we review evidence regarding the role of telemedicine and related emerging technologies in paediatric and adolescent asthma. Although there are gaps in the current knowledge, there is evidence demonstrating the important role of telemedicine in management of childhood and adolescent asthma. However, there is an urgent need for healthcare researchers and policymakers to focus on improving the technologies and address the disparities in accessing novel technology‐based management strategies to improve asthma care.
Accuracy diagnosis improvement of Fabry disease from dried blood spots: Enzyme activity, lyso‐Gb3 accumulation and GLA gene sequencing
Authors: Delarosa‐Rodríguez Rocío , Santotoribio José D. , Paula Hernández‐Arévalo , González‐Meneses Antonio , García‐Morillo Salvador , Jiménez‐Arriscado Pilar , Guerrero Juan M. , Macher Hada C.
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this study was to examine the applicability of the use of samples in dried blood spot (DBS) for the definitive diagnosis of Fabry disease (FD) in males and females and to compare the diagnostic role of α‐galactosidase A activity (α‐Gal A), levels of lyso‐Gb3 and sequencing of the GLA gene in screening patients with suspected FD. Measurement of α‐Gal A activity in suspected FD patients in DBS was made followed by lyso‐Gb3 determination and GLA gene sequencing. Of the 2381 subjects analyzed, FD was confirmed in 24 patients. Thirteen different variants were considered like pathogenic, five of which had not been previously described (c.143A > G; c.455A > C; c.487G > T; c.554delA; c.1045_1046insA). None of the patients with normal enzyme activity had FD confirmation. The DBS measurement of α‐Gal A was more sensitive than lyso‐Gb3 levels in both men and women. Definitive diagnosis of FD from a single DBS is possible, allowing samples to be easily sent from anywhere to the reference laboratory.
Impact of pre‐transplant carbapenem‐resistant Enterobacterales colonization and/or infection on solid organ transplant outcomes
Authors: Taimur Sarah , Pouch Stephanie M. , Zubizarreta Nicole , Mazumdar Madhu , Rana Meenakshi , Patel Gopi , Freire Maristela Pinnheiro , Pellett Madan Rebecca , Kwak Eun Jeong , Blumberg Emily , Satlin Michael J. , Pisney Larissa , Clemente Wanessa Trindade , Zervos Marcus J. , La Hoz Ricardo M. , Huprikar Shirish
Published: February 2021

The impact of pre‐transplant (SOT) carbapenem‐resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) colonization or infection on post‐SOT outcomes is unclear. We conducted a multi‐center, international, cohort study of SOT recipients, with microbiologically diagnosed CRE colonization and/or infection pre‐SOT. Sixty adult SOT recipients were included (liver n = 30, hearts n = 17). Klebsiella pneumoniae (n = 47, 78%) was the most common pre‐SOT CRE species. Median time from CRE detection to SOT was 2.32 months (IQR 0.33–10.13). Post‐SOT CRE infection occurred in 40% (n = 24/60), at a median of 9 days (IQR 7–17), and most commonly due to K pneumoniae (n = 20/24, 83%). Of those infected, 62% had a surgical site infection, and 46% had bloodstream infection. Patients with post‐SOT CRE infection more commonly had a liver transplant (16, 67% vs. 14, 39%; p =.0350) or pre‐SOT CRE BSI (11, 46% vs. 7, 19%; p =.03). One‐year post‐SOT survival was 77%, and those with post‐SOT CRE infection had a 50% less chance of survival vs. uninfected (0.86, 95% CI, 0.76–0.97 vs. 0.34, 95% CI 0.08–1.0, p =.0204). Pre‐SOT CRE infection or colonization is not an absolute contraindication to SOT and is more common among abdominal SOT recipients, those with pre‐SOT CRE BSI, and those with early post‐SOT medical and surgical complications.
Law‐Gospel theologies of a state of exception
Authors: Carr Amy , Helmer Christine
Published: February 2021

We address contemporary concerns with fascism by critically assessing the classic law/gospel relation in Lutheran theology. Karl Holl, founder of the Luther Renaissance in the early twentieth century, develops Luther's experience of the self under the divine wrath in terms that have affinity to what Carl Schmitt calls the “state of exception.” We examine similar non‐dialectical ways of relating law/gospel that nourish fascist tendencies on the right or left in North America.
Moving beyond ‘don't ask, don't tell’: Mental health needs of adults with type 1 diabetes in rural and remote regions of British Columbia
Authors: Ashrafi Shadan , Taylor Deanne , Tang Tricia S.
Published: February 2021

Aims

To investigate the mental health needs of adults with type 1 diabetes living in rural and remote regions of Interior, British Columbia (BC) and identify factors associated with accessing support. We also explored perspectives around using peer support and digital health strategies for delivering mental health support.

Methods

This study recruited 38 adults with type 1 diabetes to complete a self‐report survey and participate in focus groups. We conducted six 90‐min focus groups that addressed the following: current and past mental health needs, social media use for type 1 diabetes support, peer supporter recruitment and training, and support delivery features for virtual care platforms. Focus groups were recorded, transcribed, quality checked, coded and analysed to develop themes and subthemes.

Results

Four core themes emerged: (1) emotional challenges linked to type 1 diabetes management, (2) unique type 1 diabetes‐related concerns in rural and remote communities, (3) previous support experiences and future support needs and (4) diabetes‐related mental health support interventions involving peer support and digital health strategies. Existing support services are inadequate in meeting the needs of type 1 diabetes adults in Interior BC. Some have turned towards social media as a way to connect with the type 1 diabetes community for support.

Conclusions

Though type 1 diabetes adults living in rural and remote settings experience distress associated with the ongoing burdens, frustrations and fears of managing a complex chronic condition, many have not been offered support and do not know how to seek services in the present/future. Peer support and digital health strategies are two potential solutions to address this care gap.
From species sorting to mass effects: spatial network structure mediates the shift between metacommunity archetypes
Authors: Suzuki Yuka , Economo Evan P.
Published: February 2021

Local assemblages are embedded in networks of communities connected by dispersal, and understanding the processes that mediate this local–regional interaction is central to understanding biodiversity patterns. In this network (i.e. metacommunity), the strength of dispersal relative to the intensity of environmental selection typically determines whether local communities are comprised of species well‐adapted to the local environment (i.e. species sorting) or are dominated by regionally successful species that may not be locally adapted (i.e. mass effects), which by extension determines the capacity of the landscape to sustain diversity. Despite the fundamentally spatial nature of these dispersal‐mediated processes, much of our theoretical understanding comes from spatially implicit systems, a special case of spatial structure in which patches are all connected to each other equally. In many real systems, both the connections among patches (i.e. network topology) and the distributions of environments across patches (i.e. spatial autocorrelation) are not arranged uniformly. Here, we use a metacommunity model to investigate how spatial heterogeneities may change the balance between species sorting versus mass effects and diversity outcomes. Our simulations show that, in general, the spatially implicit model generates an outlier in biodiversity patterns compared to other networks, and most likely amplifies mass effects relative to species sorting. Network topology has a strong effect on metacommunity outcome, with topologies of sparse connections and few loops promoting sorting of species into suitable patches. Spatial autocorrelation is another key factor; by interacting with spatial topology, intermediate‐scale clusters of similar patches can emerge, leading to a reduction of regional competition, and hence maintenance of gamma diversity. These results provide a better understanding of the role that complex spatial landscape structure plays in metacommunity processes, a necessary step to understanding how metacommunity processes relate to biodiversity conservation.
Predator–prey overlap in three dimensions: cod benefit from capelin coming near the seafloor
Authors: Fall Johanna , Johannesen Edda , Englund Göran , Johansen Geir Odd , Fiksen Øyvind
Published: February 2021

Spatial overlap between predator and prey is a prerequisite for predation, but the degree of overlap is not necessarily proportional to prey consumption. This is because many of the behavioural processes that precede ingestion are non‐linear and depend on local prey densities. In aquatic environments, predators and prey distribute not only across a surface, but also vertically in the water column, adding another dimension to the interaction. Integrating and simplifying behavioural processes across space and time can lead to systematic biases in our inference about interaction strength. To recognise situations when this may occur, we must first understand processes underlying variation in prey consumption by individuals. Here we analysed the diet of a major predator in the Barents Sea, the Atlantic cod Gadus morhua, aiming to understand drivers of variation in cod's feeding on its main prey capelin Mallotus villosus. Cod and capelin only partly share habitats, as cod mainly reside near the seafloor and capelin inhabit the free water masses. We used data on stomach contents from ~2000 cod individuals and their surrounding environment collected over 12 years, testing hypotheses on biological and physical drivers of variation in cod's consumption of capelin, using generalized additive models. Specifically, effects of capelin abundance, capelin depth distribution, bottom depth and cod abundance on capelin consumption were evaluated at a resolution scale of 2 km. We found no indication of food competition as cod abundance had no effect on capelin consumption. Capelin abundance had small effects on consumption, while capelin depth distribution was important. Cod fed more intensively on capelin when capelin came close to the seafloor, especially at shallow banks and bank edges. Spatial overlap as an indicator for interaction strength needs to be evaluated in three dimensions instead of the conventional two when species are partly separated in the water column.