bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards a comprehensive perspective to making learning a part of life: a response to Fischer et al.'s contribution
Authors: Looi Chee-Kit
Published: November 2022

Purpose

This response paper aims to comment on specific aspects of the position paper.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the author presents a response to Fischer et al.'s contribution on “The Challenge for the Digital Age: Making Learning a Part of Life.” While imperatives and narratives of learning in the future have been well articulated in the literature, their paper provides insights into lifelong learning in the digital age.

Findings

The author raises comments on the comprehensiveness of the lifelong learning perspectives and the calls to action. Over the years, with multiyear efforts on the research-based evolution of the design, implementation and adoption of technology-supported learning environments in some parts of the world, the author believes well-researched innovative pedagogy and design principles have already to some extent impacted transformation of learning and teaching in normal schools. By referring to the work in the running of a model school in Taiwan, the author demonstrate some of the pathways that can guide innovation and work towards operationalizing a futuristic vision that is resonant with the one painted in the paper. The paper will end with some comments on how narratives on the future of learning will evolve.

Originality/value

In trying to understand the lens that the vision would bring to learning on the digital edge, the author has provided commentaries to probe into the comprehensiveness of their vision of future learning. From an Asian perspective, the author describes one effort that can help make progress in moving towards this vision. It involves realizing the vision by grounding our designs in real experiments or instantiations, such as the interest-driven creator (IDC) experimental school in Taiwan, and highlight past research efforts which have been successful in transformation of classrooms and schools such as developing seamless learning for connecting learning in different spaces afforded by mobile digital devices.
Measuring physicians’ religious competence in clinical health communication context: female Muslim immigrant patients’ expectations
Authors: Ahmed Rukhsana , Mao Yuping
Published: November 2022

Purpose

This exploratory study aims to examine female Muslim immigrant patients’ expectations of physicians’ religious competence during clinical interactions.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 101 female Muslim immigrants in Ottawa, Canada, completed an eight-item survey measuring patients’ expectations of physicians’ religious competence during clinical communication.

Findings

Results from the independent samples t-tests and one-way ANOVA suggested that female Muslim immigrant patients in this study expected their doctors to be aware of Islam as a religion and be sensitive to their religious needs, especially food/dietary practices during clinical communication. Although the participants did not differ in their expectations of physicians’ religious competence based on age, educational level, employment status and income level, they differed based on their frequencies of visiting doctors and their ethnic/cultural origin.

Originality/value

This study fills a gap in the literature by advancing understanding of religious competence during clinical interactions from female Muslim immigrant patients’ perspective. The findings can contribute to developing religiously competent and accessible health-care services for religiously diverse populations.
SMART-QUAL: a dashboard for quality measurement in higher education institutions
Authors: Adot Esther , Akhmedova Anna , Alvelos Helena , Barbosa-Pereira Sofia , Berbegal-Mirabent Jasmina , Cardoso Sónia , Domingues Pedro , Franceschini Fiorenzo , Gil-Doménech Dolors , Machado Ricardo , Maisano Domenico Augusto , Marimon Frederic , Mas-Machuca Marta , Mastrogiacomo Luca , Melo Ana I. , Miguéis Vera , Rosa Maria J. , Sampaio Paulo , Torrents Dani , Xambre Ana Raquel
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The paper aims to define a dashboard of indicators to assess the quality performance of higher education institutions (HEI). The instrument is termed SMART-QUAL.

Design/methodology/approach

Two sources were used in order to explore potential indicators. In the first step, information disclosed in official websites or institutional documentation of 36 selected HEIs was analyzed. This first step also included in depth structured high managers’ interviews. A total of 223 indicators emerged. In a second step, recent specialized literature was revised searching for indicators, capturing additional 302 indicators.

Findings

Each one of the 525 total indicators was classified according to some attributes and distributed into 94 intermediate groups. These groups feed a debugging, prioritization and selection process, which ended up in the SMART-QUAL instrument: a set of 56 key performance indicators, which are grouped in 15 standards, and, in turn, classified into the 3 HEI missions. A basic model and an extended model are also proposed.

Originality/value

The paper provides a useful measure of quality performance of HEIs, showing a holistic view to monitor HEI quality from three fundamental missions. This instrument might assist HEI managers for both assessing and benchmarking purposes. The paper ends with recommendations for university managers and public administration authorities.
Theoretical analysis of social inclusion and social leverage in the Anthropocene era
Authors: Reyes Ortiz Giovanni Efrain , Socorro Márquez Félix Oscar , Gassón Pacheco Rafael A.
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The main objective of this research is to present a theoretical review of social inclusion and social leverage in the Anthropocene era.

Design/methodology/approach

To fulfil this objective, four fundamental and complementary approaches are taken into account: (1) the theory of increasing capacities and increasing opportunities as essential aspects of Amartya Sen's theory of human development; (2) the perspective and factors of the current globalization process; (3) Douglass North's neo-institutionalist approach to social and political conditions and (4) the foundations of Jürgen Habermas's theory of legitimacy.

Findings

These considerations make possible a perspective that goes beyond the strictly economic elements, to complement the point of view with other aspects, including those of public policy analysis as part of the current era of global change known as Anthropocene.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited to a theoretical review of social inclusion and social leverage essentially taking into account the perspectives of Amartya Sen, Douglass North and Jürgen Habermas.

Practical implications

Social leverage mechanisms can be efficient means to achieve conditions of sustained and inclusive improvements in the conditions of social interrelations. In this way, it is possible to shape dynamics of economic and social development, based on productive efficiency, social equity and ecological sustainability.

Social implications

The fundamental contribution explained by this study consists in establishing that social leverage is essential in order to achieve three goals inherent to economic and social development.

Originality/value

Based on its methodology and academic vision, the paper is completely original.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at:https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-02-2022-0086
The hippogryphs on the 14th floor: the future of hybrid work
Authors: Hirsch Peter Buell
Published: November 2022

Purpose

This study aims to examine how differing attitudes to flexible working pose new challenges to employers seeking to have workers return to the office.

Design/methodology/approach

This viewpoint reviews a range of opinion research studies to tease out points of tension and points of opportunity in how employers are handling flexing working postpandemic.

Findings

Analysis of the available research suggests that there are considerable disparities in the views of employers and employees, particularly white-collar workers on hybrid and flexible working. Based on these insights, this viewpoint suggests several ways in which employers will need to collaborate with workers to sustain robust corporate cultures and retain their best workers.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, there has been no comprehensive set of recommendations for how companies can handle the challenges they face in seeking to return their workers to centralized offices.
Reliving a traumatic experience through emotional creativity: the bright side of cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Rezaee Vessal Saeedeh , Partouche-Sebban Judith , Schiavone Francesco
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The COVID-19 outbreak has undoubtedly affected overall mental health. Thus, researching resilience is important, as it has been previously discussed as a means to protect people from mental health problems. This study aims to clarify whether survivors of a traumatic event (i.e. cancer survivors) are more resilient to living through another traumatic experience, such as COVID-19, compared to those who have never had such an experience. The study also examines the role of emotional creativity in this process.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative research design was adopted. The data collection was performed through a survey (N = 338), which was conducted among two separate groups of participants. The first group (N = 152) included the survivors of a traumatic event (i.e. cancer survivors), and the second group (N = 186) included those who did not have such an experience.

Findings

The results demonstrate that living through a traumatic experience results in a higher level of resilience during another traumatic experience (i.e. COVID-19), which is the result of higher post-traumatic growth. Moreover, emotional creativity is discussed as an explanatory variable that explains a significantly higher level of post-traumatic growth among survivors of a traumatic event.

Originality/value

This research offers a better understanding of the effect of living through a traumatic event on post-traumatic growth and resilience in living through another traumatic experience. Moreover, post-traumatic growth is explained through emotional creativity improvement, which happens after experiencing a traumatic life event.
Teleworkers' job performance: a study examining the role of age as an important diversity component of companies' workforce
Authors: Hamouche Salima , Parent-Lamarche Annick
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Teleworking seems to be the new future of the workplace. It has been widely adopted during the COVID-19 crisis, which has greatly influenced work organization conditions. This pandemic and its accompanying changes represent significant challenges for employees' performance, depending on their age if the study considers the physical and psychological vulnerabilities of older employees and their assumed or expected difficulties to cope with the new information and communication technologies (ICTs). This study aims at examining the direct effects of teleworking, and age on job performance (in-role). As well as analyzing the moderating effect of age on the relationship between teleworking and in-role job performance in times of crisis.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected in Canada from 18 companies, with a sample of 272 employees. Multivariate regression and moderation regression analyses were performed using Stata 13.

Findings

Results revealed that when teleworking, older age is associated with lower job performance and younger age is associated with higher job performance. Conversely, when working on-site, older age is associated with higher job performance, whereas younger age is associated with lower job performance.

Practical implications

From a practical perspective, these results highlight the importance of decision authority and recognition. As well as the presence of age disparities related to work arrangements. Managers need to adopt an inclusive approach and develop work arrangements that take into consideration employees' needs and ages. Some insights and practical recommendations are presented in this paper to support managers and human resource practitioners.

Originality/value

Studies examining the in-role job performance of teleworkers and the effects of age are sparse. This study helps to expand research on human resources management, job performance and age.
Smart city and spatial configuration: assessing accessibility and intelligibility to increase mobility in the George Town heritage site, Malaysia
Authors: Safizadeh Mina , Maghsoodi Tilaki Mohammad Javad , Hedayati Marzbali Massoomeh , Abdullah Aldrin
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The emerging concept of smart city is known to aim at sustainable urban development. One of the requirements for a smart city is to address accessibility inequalities. This study aims to investigate the accessibility level issues in urban transformation before and after combining different street networks for Penang, Malaysia, as a case study to reveal greater insight and helpful information into mobility and accessibility inequalities for future smart city planning.

Design/methodology/approach

Using DepthmapX software, two main quantitative methodologies of space syntax, namely, spatial integration accessibility (SIA) and angular segment analysis by metric distance (ASDMA), are employed to analyse the level of accessibility for the main streets of George Town site before and after combination with contemporary networks. Integration, choice and entropy values were calculated for the study analysis.

Findings

Results revealed the implications of combining old irregular gridiron structures with the existing planned grid structures. George Town seems to have gained a higher capacity for pedestrian accessibility; however, vehicle accessibility has lost its capacity. Findings further suggest that a combination of irregular structure and grid structure is essential for urban growth in similar historical contexts to improve accessibility and address mobility inequalities.

Originality/value

The study concludes by highlighting the importance of the analysis of street structure transformation to predict consequences and promote the potential to reduce current inequalities in vehicle accessibility.
A roadmap for the application of PLS-SEM and IPMA for effective service quality improvements
Authors: Teeluckdharry Noorjahan Banon , Teeroovengadum Viraiyan , Seebaluck Ashley Keshwar
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The paper provides a step-by-step guide in the guise of a roadmap for service improvement initiatives using importance performance map analysis (IPMA).

Design/methodology/approach

To empirically illustrate how IPMA can be applied to any service industry, three sectors are considered; sports and fitness (study A), hospitality (study B) and higher education (study C). Following the proper selection of measuring instruments and their evaluation using structural equation modeling-partial least squares (Smart-PLS), IPMA is applied to identify those attributes having strong total effects (high importance) over the targeted construct (satisfaction) but which also have low average latent variable scores (low performance).

Findings

For sports and fitness (study A), the physical aspects and programme quality require managerial attention. For the hospitability sector (study B), it is service commitment, interaction quality and internal sense of happiness. Whereas for higher education (study C), it is administrative quality as well as the element of transformative quality, namely the university’s role in adding to its students’ emotional stability, which needs the attention of the top management.

Originality/value

This study provides researchers and practitioners with a roadmap for applying PLS-SEM and IPMA for continuous service quality improvement. The roadmap extends upon Ringle and Sarstedt’s (2016) work. It highlights critical decisions that need to be considered in the pre-analytical stages of the IPMA application, i.e. at the research design phase in selecting the most appropriate service quality measurement model specifications. It not only contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing empirical evidence to advance theory development in the quality management field but also has implications for the practitioners in any service sector on where to focus their attention for an effective service improvement.
The Study of the Past and its Present Challenges in the Study of Religions
Authors: Gilhus Ingvild Sælid
Published: November 2022

The article comments on the three challenges, which Mattias Brand presents in the Introduction: the questioning of central concepts, multiplication and fragmentation, and communication with a large audience. It also comments on Nickolas P. Roubekas article, “Asking Old Questions Anew: On the History of Religions.” The author stresses the lack of stability in the concept of religion and that those definitions must be modified and refined. A realistic goal for historians of religion is to a higher degree to contribute to middle‐range theories where theories and empirical research are more closely integrated. Since religions of the past make up a significant part of the religion/s that have ever existed, they are essential to include in a comparative study of religion. The author finally points out that successful theorising in the historical study of religion should include students.
A novel index, Chinese visceral adiposity index is closely associated with urinary albumin‐creatinine ratio in Chinese community adults, especially in hypertensive or hyperglycemic population: Results from the REACTION study
Authors: Li Binqi , Wang Weiqing , Gao Zhengnan , Tang Xulei , Yan Li , Wan Qin , Luo Zuojie , Qin Guijun , Chen Lulu , Ning Guang , Mu Yiming
Published: November 2022

Background

The association between the Chinese Visceral Adiposity Index (CVAI) and urinary albumin to creatinine ratio (UACR) has not been illustrated. The current study aimed to investigate the association between CVAI and UACR and to compare the discriminative power of CVAI, triglyceride, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and waist‐to‐hip ratio (WHR) with UACR in the Chinese community population.

Methods

This study included 34 732 participants from the REACTION (Risk Evaluation of cAncers in Chinese diabeTic Individuals) study. Binary logistic regression analyses were performed to detect the association between CVAI, triglyceride, BMI, WC, WHR and UACR.

Results

Binary logistic regression analysis showed that, after adjusting for potential confounders, in women, CVAI (odds ratio [OR]:1.16, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01–1.34) and triglyceride (OR: 1.18, 95% CI: 1.04–1.33) were associated with UACR, whereas BMI, WC, and WHR were not associated with UACR; in men, CVAI (OR: 1.24, 95% CI: 1.02–1.50), WC (OR: 1.21, 95% CI 1.00–1.48), and triglycerides (OR: 1.18, 95% CI 0.97–1.44) were associated with UACR, whereas BMI and WHR were not associated with UACR. Stratified analysis showed that the correlation between CVAI and UACR was stronger in the population with 5.6 ≤ fasting blood glucose (FBG) <7.0 or 7.8 ≤ post‐load blood glucose (PBG) <11.1 mmol/L, FBG ≥7.0 or PBG ≥11.1, systolic blood pressure ≥140 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mmHg.

Conclusions

In the Chinese general population, CVAI and UACR were significantly associated in both genders. At higher CVAI levels, the population with prediabetes, diabetes, and hypertension has a more significant association between CVAI and UACR.
Heuristic smartphone usability evaluations of the mobile application NANDA, nursing interventions classification, and nursing outcomes classification customized for nursing home registered nurses
Authors: Shin Juh Hyun , Jung Sun Ok
Published: November 2022

Purpose

We aimed to evaluate the usability of a smartphone application consisting of standardized nursing language (SNL) using NANDA, Nursing Intervention Classification, and Nursing Outcome Classification for nursing home nurses.

Data sources

Applying convenience sampling, a total of 14 experts and 15 real users were invited to test and evaluate the smartphone application independently. For the usability evaluation of the developed application, the Korean version of the Mobile Application Rating Scale for experts and Mobile Application Rating Scale: User Version developed by Stoyanov et al. were used.

Data synthesis

Both groups determined that the SNL application was quite informative about SNL and efficient function; however, the engagement was quite lower than other categories.

Conclusions

Although SNLs were scientifically developed for several decades, the widely available technological application for registered nurses in different languages is urgently needed to improve quality of nursing care.

Implications for nursing practice

The identified problems and recommendations by users and experts using heuristic evaluation will be reflected in the application's final version to be used for research.
Mistaken identity of polymorphous low‐grade adenocarcinoma treated as periapical lesion in anterior maxilla: A case report
Authors: Srirangarajan Sridharan , Shashidara R. , Ramya Raghu , Harika S. , Pritham Shetty N. , Ravi Rao J. , Malagi Prathima , Srikumar Prabhu , Ashish Shetty
Published: November 2022

This report presents a rare case of polymorphous low‐grade adenocarcinoma (PLGA) in the anterior maxilla, mimicking a periapical lesion. A 56‐year‐old male reported with a painless swelling in the maxillary right canine‐premolar region. The patient gave a history of root canal therapy for the same teeth one month ago. On intraoral examination, the involved teeth were restored with ceramic crowns. Radiographic examination revealed inadequate obturation with an ill‐defined radiolucency in the periapical region. 3D cone beam computer tomography (CBCT) revealed erosion of the buccal cortical plate near the apices of the roots. Endodontic re‐treatment was performed on both the teeth. Following this, the lesion was excised and submitted for histopathological analysis wherein it was identified as PLGA. Computerised tomographic (CT) scan and positron emission tomography scan (PET) results showed no regional or distant metastasis. Under general anaesthesia, the teeth were extracted, and wide surgical excision of the anterior maxilla was done till the healthy bone was exposed. Healing was uneventful during the follow‐up period.
Current approach and attitudes toward neonatal near‐miss and perinatal audits: An exploratory international survey
Authors: de Barros Medeiros Poliana , Liley Helen , Andrews Christine , Gordon Adrienne , Heazell Alexander E.P. , Kent Alison L. , Leisher Susannah H. , Flenady Vicki
Published: November 2022

Background

Combined with perinatal mortality review, neonatal near‐miss (NNM) audit has the potential to inform strategies to better prevent adverse perinatal outcomes. Nonetheless, there is lack of standardised definitions of NNM and limited evidence of implementation of NNM audits.

Aim

To describe definitions of NNM and assess current approaches and attitudes toward perinatal mortality and morbidity audit.

Materials and Methods

Online survey from December 2021 to February 2022, with a mix of Likert scales, polar, pool, multi‐choice, and open‐ended questions, disseminated through national and international organisations to perinatal healthcare workers from high‐income countries.

Results

One hundred and twenty participants came from Australia (n = 86), New Zealand (n = 18), Canada (n = 7), USA (n = 4), Netherlands (n = 2), other countries (n = 3). Neonatologists (35%), midwives (21.7%), obstetricians (12.5%), neonatal nurse practitioners (11.7%) and others (23.3%) responded. Most respondents thought the main characteristics to define NNM were birth asphyxia needing therapeutic hypothermia (68.3%), unexpected resuscitation at birth (67.5%), need for intubation/chest compression/adrenaline (65.0%) and metabolic acidosis at birth (60.0%). There were 97.5% of participants who considered NNM important for identifying cases for perinatal morbidity audits. However, only 10.0% of their institutions used a NNM definition. Overall, 98.4% of participants considered perinatal mortality and morbidity audits important to prevent adverse outcomes.

Conclusion

Neonatal near‐miss audit is viewed as a valuable tool to reduce adverse neonatal outcomes. There was reasonable consensus that NNM encompassed evidence of birth asphyxia and/or advanced neonatal resuscitation. Data from this international survey identifies a starting point for a consensus definition of NNM, which can be used for perinatal audits to identify opportunities for improvement.
Indicators for effective visiting primary care services: A case study
Authors: Healy Laura J. , Beccaria Gavin , McIlveen Peter
Published: November 2022

Objective

The objective of this study was to assess the clinical utility of a model of seven principles for effective visiting primary care services and to determine how it could be conceptualised as a tool for evaluation.

Setting

The research was undertaken in the context of visiting primary care services with an agency, Outback Futures, selected as a case study.

Participants

Three executive staff with Outback Futures participated in the research.

Design

The case study design involved data collection by four group interviews conducted between July and November 2021. The interview data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

This case study is additional evidence for the clinical utility of the model of seven principles. The results reinforce the importance of a community‐focussed approach to assess the impact of visiting service organisations on rural and remote communities. A comprehensive approach to evaluation is required to justify the investments made and safeguard the health and well‐being of rural and remote residents. A self‐assessment protocol has been established from the model for use by visiting services. Furthermore, three themes were drawn from the data: relationship is fundamental, the importance of co‐design, and being effective as a visiting service is challenging.

Conclusion

The model is appropriate for the case study organisation, and has clinical utility and implications for other visiting services. A self‐assessment protocol has been developed. Future research should apply the model and protocol self‐assessment tool in an effort to construct a consistent and credible approach to evaluation of visiting primary care services.
Returning to My Past: Caring in a Crisis
Authors: Marshall Tom
Published: November 2022

What was it like to care for older residents in a care home during the COVID‐19 pandemic? Care work was in crisis before the pandemic, which brought the fragility of the UK's healthcare system and those who work in it to the fore. I recount my experiences in a care home with isolated older people during the early months of the COVID‐19 global pandemic. In this autoethnography, I consider my attempt to prioritize isolated older care home residents' personhood alongside the complexities of caring during an inordinately physically and emotionally precarious time. While neglecting some aspects of my own needs, I describe how care work, while rewarding, can reproduce the already ingrained inequalities that characterize it. I argue that sensing absence as experienced by older people can be a means to help reduce some of their isolation and loneliness. During my time caring during the pandemic, time to care was corroded, further frustrating what care should be. Through my autoethnographic account of caring during the pandemic, I argue that the well‐being needs of caregivers alongside care receivers should be acknowledged as an integral aspect of care. [caring, COVID‐19, absence, care home, isolation].
Ultrasound ciliary plasty in glaucoma treatment: A long‐term follow‐up study
Authors: Bolek Bartłomiej , Wylęgała Adam , Wylęgała Edward
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ultrasound ciliary plasty (UCP) in patients with open‐angle glaucoma for three consecutive years.

Methods

Sixty‐one patients (62 eyes) with primary and secondary glaucoma were enrolled to undergo UCP. The primary outcome measures were intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction, success rates, glaucoma medication use and visual acuity after UCP. An IOP reduction of 20% compared to the baseline value without re‐intervention was considered a successful treatment. Complete success was defined as cessation of antiglaucoma medications. Secondary outcome measures included intraoperative and postoperative complications. Measurements were performed preoperatively and at the first week, and 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, 24, 30 and 36 months postoperatively.

Results

A total of 41 patients (41 eyes) were evaluated 36‐month after UCP. The mean ± SD values of IOP preoperatively at 1 day, 1 week, 1; 3; 6; 12; 18; 24; 30 and 36 months postoperatively were 22.7 ± 5.0 mmHg, 17.1 ± 4.2 mmHg (p < 0.001), 15.7 ± 4.8 mmHg (p < 0.001), 18.8 ± 4.8 mmHg (p < 0.001), 17.3 ± 3.7 mmHg (p < 0.001), 16.9 ± 3.2 mmHg (p < 0.001), 16.6 ± 2.7 mmHg (p < 0.001), 16.3 ± 3.0 mmHg (p < 0.001), 15.8 ± 3.4 mmHg (p < 0.001), 15.3 ± 2.1 mmHg (p < 0.001) and 16.3 ± 3.0 mmHg (p < 0.001), respectively. The mean IOP at the last follow‐up was reduced by 28.5%. The qualified success rate was 64.0%. All patients at 36‐month follow‐up visit required the use of antiglaucoma medications – none of the patients achieved complete success. The decrease in the number of antiglaucoma medications was statistically significant at each follow‐up visit compared to the baseline. Choroid detachment was observed in three patients (4.8%), while macular oedema was observed in three patients (4.8%) after the procedure. No other major intraoperative or postoperative complications occurred.

Conclusion

Ultrasound ciliary plasty seems to be an effective and well‐tolerated method to reduce IOP in patients with refractory glaucoma. Further studies with a larger group are needed to confirm the efficacy of this procedure.
Functional constipation as a risk factor for pyelonephritis and recurrent urinary tract infection in children
Authors: Axelgaard Sofie , Kristensen Rasmus , Kamperis Konstantinos , Hagstrøm Søren , Jessen Alexander Slot , Borch Luise
Published: November 2022

Aim

Acute pyelonephritis is one of the most common bacterial infections in childhood. This potentially serious condition can lead to renal scarring, loss of kidney function and hypertension. The aim of this study was to identify risk factors associated with pyelonephritis in children without kidney or urinary tract abnormalities.

Methods

Medical records of children aged 4–18 diagnosed with 1st time pyelonephritis from 2016 to 2021 were retrospectively analysed. Children with abnormal kidney ultrasound were excluded. In addition to demographic data, information on bladder and bowel function was extracted together with habits of fluid intake.

Results

A total of 105 patients were diagnosed with 1st time pyelonephritis. Of these, 47% were diagnosed with constipation according to the Rome IV criteria within a mean follow‐up period of 167 days after their pyelonephritis, which is markedly higher than the estimated prevalence of constipation in the background population. Constipation was positively associated with recurrent urinary tract infection (p = 0.01).

Conclusion

Constipation is associated with pyelonephritis and recurrent urinary tract infection in children (primarily girls) 4–18 years of age without evident kidney or urinary tract abnormalities. We recommend systematic evaluation of bowel and bladder function after 1st time pyelonephritis in all children >4 years.
Rejoinder to Discussions on “Instrumental Variable Estimation of the Causal Hazard Ratio”
Authors: Wang Linbo , Tchetgen Tchetgen Eric , Martinussen Torben , Vansteelandt Stijn
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we respond to comments on our paper, “Instrumental variable estimation of the causal hazard ratio.”
Mechanisms of improvement in generalized anxiety disorder: A mediation and moderated mediation analysis from a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Costa Marianna de Abreu , Russell Tamara A. , Gosmann Natan Pereira , Gonçalves Francine , Tatton‐Ramos Tiago , de Oliveira Felipe Borges , Manfro Gisele Gus
Published: November 2022

Background

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is associated with the lowest treatment response rate among all anxiety disorders. Understanding mechanisms of improvement may help to develop more effective and personalized treatments.

Aim

The objective of the study was to investigate different improvement mechanisms in the treatment of individuals diagnosed with GAD.

Design

We reported data from a randomized controlled trial that evaluated three different GAD treatments (mindfulness‐based intervention, BMT; fluoxetine, FLX; and an active comparison group, QoL) for 8 weeks.

Method

Mediation analyses were performed evaluating the association between worry symptoms at baseline and anxiety scoring at the endpoint, considering self‐compassion or mindfulness or its dimensions at mid‐treatment as mediators for the whole sample (assessing GAD improvement mechanism) and the different interventions as moderators.

Results

Contrary to mindfulness state scoring (C = .06; 95% CI = −.05 to .20), self‐compassion (C = .11; 95% CI = .01 to .28) and non‐judgement of inner experience (C = .10; 95% CI = .004 to .21) mediated the association between worry symptoms at baseline and anxiety at the endpoint. When comparing BMT to FLX, the intervention modality did not moderate these associations.

Conclusion

Self‐compassion and non‐judgement of inner experience seem to be essential targets in GAD treatment, contrary to the mindfulness state itself. Although no difference was found considering the intervention modality, future research may assess how to boost these dimensions in specific treatments for GAD.
Site prioritization and the reproduction of inequity in the restoration of Biscayne Bay
Authors: Bradbury Mason
Published: November 2022

The restoration of urban estuaries is challenging due to the complexity of prioritizing sites in a context of social and biophysical unevenness. Site prioritization and selection are crucial components of ecological success and equity in restoration. In many cases, site prioritization is conducted according to simple opportunity or political expediency, but this needs to be investigated further in local contexts, with accompanying analysis of the impacts on urban environmental equity. Using a critical physical geography framework, I explore site selection processes in the restoration of Biscayne Bay through case studies of two urban streams. I use multiple data types to present an integrated perspective on urban restoration priority and the social context that produces restoration siting decisions. I find that the logics of restoration site selection in the Biscayne Bay watershed have produced ecologically questionable decisions and inequitable outcomes. Therefore, I argue that restoration decision making needs to include environmental justice criteria.
Investigating the relationship between inaccurate blood alcohol concentration estimates, harm and other negative consequences
Authors: de Andrade Dominique , Button Kira , Coomber Kerri , Taylor Nicholas , Ferris Jason , Curtis Ashlee , Miller Peter G.
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Alcohol‐related harms place a significant burden on the Australian economy and health‐care system. The current study aims to: (i) explore the relationship between blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and self‐estimated blood alcohol concentration (EBAC); and (ii) determine whether BAC underestimation is related to an increased risk of experiencing physical aggression, verbal aggression, drink driving, ejection from a venue or refusal of service.

Methods

Patron street surveys were conducted in four night‐time entertainment precincts (NEP) across Queensland, Australia, between June 2016 and November 2018. Participants (N = 2144) reported on their EBAC and recent negative or harmful experiences in NEPs. BAC was measured via a breathalyser. Paired samples t tests were conducted to determine if patrons' BAC and EBAC were significantly different. Logistic regressions were conducted to examine whether BAC underestimation is a significant predictor of harm and negative outcomes.

Results

Analyses identified a small, significant difference between patron's BAC and EBAC. Patrons with a low BAC were more likely to overestimate their BAC, while patrons with higher BACs were more likely to underestimate their BAC. Moderately intoxicated patrons had the most precise BAC estimations. Patrons with a high BAC and who underestimated their intoxication level were more likely to have been recently ejected from licensed venues, compared to accurate estimators or over‐estimators.

Discussion and Conclusions

Overall, patrons are poor evaluators of their own intoxication level, which may have implications for their experiences in NEPs. The findings highlight the need for improved BAC education for patrons.
Current and novel echocardiographic assessment of left ventricular systolic function in aortic stenosis—A comprehensive review
Authors: Luke Peter , Alkhalil Mohammad , Eggett Christopher
Published: November 2022

Aortic stenosis (AS) is a complex and progressive condition that can significantly reduce the quality of life and increase the incidence of premature mortality. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is the gold standard imaging modality for the assessment of AS severity. While left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) derived from TTE is a very well‐understood parameter, limitations such as high inter and intra‐observer variability, insensitivity to sub‐clinical dysfunction, and influence of loading conditions make LVEF a complicated and unreliable parameter. Myocardial deformation imaging has been identified as a promising parameter for identifying subclinical left ventricular dysfunction, however, this parameter is still afterload dependent. Myocardial Work is a promising novel assessment technique that accounts for afterload by combining the use of myocardial deformation imaging and non‐invasive blood pressure to provide a more comprehensive assessment of mechanics beyond LVEF. This review evaluates the evidence for various echocardiographic assessment parameters used to quantify left ventricular function including myocardial work in patients with AS.
Plant species richness on the Tibetan Plateau: patterns and determinants
Authors: Cheng Changjin , He Nianpeng , Li Mingxu , Xu Li , Cai Weixiang , Li Xin , Zhao Wenzong , Li Chao , Sun Osbert Jianxin
Published: November 2022

Whether current hypotheses for geographic patterns of species richness (SR) have a strong explanatory power for the Tibetan Plateau (TP) with extreme climatic conditions remains unclear. In comparison with the classic ‘water–energy dynamics hypothesis', the unique climate factors (e.g. extreme low temperature and low oxygen partial pressure) on the TP likely significantly affect the spatial variation of SR. Here, we investigate geographic patterns and determinants of SR on the TP through a systematic field investigation. We systematically analyzed a total of 2013 plant communities covering 11 different vegetation types on the TP. To compare this SR with that of other sites across the globe, we compiled a global database containing information on 87 forest and 3660 grassland plots. The SR per 400 m2 in the forests and shrubs and that per 1 m2 in alpine grasslands and deserts was 62.76 (± 1.80 SE), 44.53 (± 7.57 SE), 16.84 (± 0.39 SE) and 3.62 (± 0.55 SE), respectively. The SR of forests and shrubs decreased with latitude and altitude, whereas that of alpine grasslands and deserts showed a unimodal pattern along the altitudinal gradient. Unique climate factors, such as extreme low temperature, mean diurnal temperature and oxygen partial pressure, act synergistically with water–energy dynamics and influence the spatial pattern of SR on the TP. Furthermore, the tree SR on the TP was lower than that of global tropical and subtropical broadleaf forests but higher than that of temperate conifer forests. Alpine meadows had a higher SR than other sites; however, the SR in alpine desert grasslands and alpine deserts was lower. Our findings provide novel insights into the mechanisms underlying the spatial variation in plant diversity, especially on plateaus and in high‐latitude regions. Our findings and the SR map with 1 km resolution provide important benchmarks for biodiversity conservation and may help to improve predictions of the effect of climate change on biodiversity.
CEAMEC 1.0: a ‘Shiny' application for cost‐effective animal management via environmental capacity
Authors: Tang Qian , Yan Yanyun , Soh Malcolm C. K. , Rheindt Frank E.
Published: November 2022

Managing over‐abundant nuisance species in anthropogenic environments typically depends on the removal of individuals, even though theoretical and empirical studies suggest that limiting environmental resources can be more effective. However, quantifying resources to be manipulated in order to achieve a desired reduction in target species can be difficult, which complicates cost estimation for a given management target. We present CEAMEC 1.0 (cost‐effective animal management via environmental capacity), a ‘Shiny' application in the HTML user interface (available at ) programmed in the R language, as a tool to provide managers with optimal management strategies based on cost estimates of manipulating different environmental resources. Based on user‐defined targets and periods of management, CEAMEC calculates an optimal combination and quantity of different resources to be manipulated at the lowest cost to achieve a desired reduction level of a target population. CEAMEC provides stakeholders with a user‐friendly decision support tool for integrated management plans targeting nuisance species in man‐made environments.
Population origin determines the adaptive potential for the advancement of flowering onset in Lupinus angustifolius L. (Fabaceae)
Authors: Sacristán‐Bajo Sandra , García‐Fernández Alfredo , Lara‐Romero Carlos , Prieto‐Benítez Samuel , Tabarés Pablo , Morente‐López Javier , Rubio Teso María Luisa , Alameda‐Martín Aitor , Torres Elena , Iriondo José María
Published: November 2022

In the present framework of global warming, it is unclear whether evolutionary adaptation can happen quick enough to preserve the persistence of many species. Specifically, we lack knowledge about the adaptive potential of the different populations in relation to the various constraints that may hamper particular adaptations. There is evidence indicating that early flowering often provides an adaptive advantage to plants in temperate zones in response to global warming. Thus, the objective of this study was to assess the adaptive potential for advancing flowering onset in Lupinus angustifolius L. (Fabaceae). Seeds from four populations from two contrasting latitudes in Spain were collected and sown in a common garden environment. Selecting the 25% of the individuals that flowered earlier in the first generation, over three generations, three different early flowering selection lines were established, involving both self‐crosses and outcrosses. All artificial selection lines advanced their flowering significantly with respect to the control line in the northernmost populations, but not in the southern ones. Selection lines obtained from outcrossing had a greater advancement in flowering than those from self‐crossing. No differences were found in the number or weight of the seeds produced between control and artificial selection lines, probably because plants in the common garden were drip irrigated. These results suggest that northern populations may have a greater adaptive potential and that southern populations may be more vulnerable in the context of climate warming. However, earlier flowering was also associated with changes in other traits (height, biomass, shoot growth, specific leaflet area, and leaflet dry matter content), and the effects of these changes varied greatly depending on the latitude of the population and selection line. Assessments of the ability of populations to cope with climate change through this and other approaches are essential to manage species and populations in a more efficient way.
Social support in a parenting Facebook group during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Hooper Alison , Schweiker Claire , Kerch Cailin
Published: November 2022

Objective

This paper includes a mixed methods content analysis of a parenting Facebook group focused on COVID‐19. We analyze participants' posts to identify the types of support parents sought and gave.

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic has resulted in increased parental stress and challenges related to children's development. Many families turned to social media as a source of information and social support.

Method

We analyzed 1,180 posts from a large, closed Facebook group focused on parenting during COVID‐19. We coded posts using a modified version of social support theory and supplemented this analysis with codes related to giving and receiving support, post format, and topic.

Results

Participants frequently offered informational support, typically reposting content from other sources. There were fewer instances of soliciting support, but these posts had significantly more comments. The most common topics discussed were parenting and child development, remote schooling support, literacy, and adult mental health.

Conclusion

Findings illustrate the benefits and challenges of online support communities for parents, especially those on social media platforms.

Implications

These results suggest areas where parents may need or want support during and after COVID‐19 and ways in which social media can serve as a form of parenting social support.
Problem‐based shared decision making: The role of canonical SDM steps
Authors: Montori Victor M. , Ruissen Merel M. , Branda Megan E. , Hargraves Ian G. , Kunneman Marleen
Published: November 2022

Objective

To evaluate the extent to which the canonical steps of shared decision making (SDM) take place in clinical encounters in practice and across SDM forms.

Methods

We assessed 100 randomly selected video‐recorded primary care encounters, obtained as part of a randomized trial of an SDM intervention in patients with type 2 diabetes. Two coders, working independently, noted each instance of SDM, classified it as one of four problem‐based forms to SDM (weighing alternatives, negotiating conflicting issues, solving problems, or developing existential insight), and noted the occurrence and timing of each of the four canonical SDM steps: fostering choice awareness, providing information, stating preferences, and deciding. Descriptive analyses sought to determine the relative frequency of these steps across each of the four SDM forms within each encounter.

Results

There were 485 SDM steps noted (mean 4.85 steps per encounter), of which providing information and stating preferences were the most common. There were 2.7 (38 steps in 14 encounters) steps per encounter observed in encounters with no discernible SDM form, 3.4 (105 steps in 31 encounters) with one SDM form, 5.2 (129 steps in 25 encounters) with two SDM forms, and 7.1 (213 steps in 30 encounters) when ≥3 SDM forms were observed within the encounter. The prescribed order of the four SDM steps was observed in, at best, 16 of the 100 encounters. Stating preferences was a common step when weighing alternatives (38%) or negotiating conflicts (59.3%) but less common when solving problems (29.2%). The distribution of SDM steps was similar to usual care with or without the SDM intervention.

Conclusion

The normative steps of SDM are infrequently observed in their prescribed order regardless of whether an SDM intervention was used. Some steps are more likely in some SDM forms but no pattern of steps appears to distinguish among SDM forms.

Clinical Trial Registration

ClinicalTrial.gov: NCT01293578.