bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Managerial ethical decision-making in export-oriented readymade garment units: mediating roles of attitude and moral obligation
Authors: Alam Syed Shah Shah , Jannat Taslima , Lin Chieh Yu , Omar Nor Asiah , Ho Yi Hui
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the factors that affect managers’ ethical decision-making in export-oriented readymade garments in Bangladesh.

Design/methodology/approach

This is an empirical study based on the quantitative approach undertaking a cross-sectional survey method where a convenience sampling technique was applied. The analysis was done using partial least square structural equation model applying Smart-PLS version 3.0.

Findings

This study confirmed that all the components of cognitive appraisal processes, including perceived severity, perceived vulnerability, response efficacy and self-efficacy, have a significant influence on attitude. Attitude, in turn, mediates the relationship between these variables and the behavioural intention of ethical practice, except for perceived vulnerability. Besides, moral obligation is found to mediate the relationship between attitude, self-efficacy and the behavioural intention of ethical decision-making. The study also found that ethical climate and subjective norms have a direct influence on behavioural intention. Furthermore, behavioural intention, ethical climate and self-efficacy are positively related to actual decision-making behaviour. However, this study did not find any direct effect of subjective norms on moral obligation.

Practical implications

The organization should include an emphasis on building ethical culture and setting an ethical code of conduct within the organization to sustain ethical practice within employees. However, the practitioner should work on enhancing self-efficacy to curb unethical practices by individuals.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the management of garments manufacturers by a practical and theoretical understanding of what influences the ethical behavioural decision-making process. Valuable guidelines are provided on the ethical decision-making process in the garments manufacturing companies for future researchers.
Does government spending cointegrate with bank lending? Evidence from Eurozone panel data
Authors: Dalla Eleni , Papadamou Stephanos , Varelas Erotokritos , Argyropoulos Athanasios
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Our purpose is the examination of the effects of fiscal policy on private lending for the Eurozone countries. The emphasis is on the identification of the time path of government spending and bank lending.

Design/methodology/approach

Fiscal policy is a main factor of macroeconomic stability for the euro area economy. This paper, investigates the impact of government spending on bank lending. For this reason, we present a dynamic theoretical model with a perfectly competitive banking sector, estimated using panel cointegration for the Eurozone countries from 2000Q1 to 2022Q2.

Findings

Our findings highlight that, in the long run, consistent management of government spending can have a beneficial multiplicative impact on bank lending for housing and business reasons. This finding is stronger in magnitude for business versus housing lending. The high level of homogeneity of our results across Eurozone countries has positive implications for a common fiscal policy in the future. Finally, authorities should know that policy adjustments are quicker in housing lending when compared to business lending.

Originality/value

In this paper, we contribute to the existing literature, concentrating on the investigation of any existence of long-run and short-run relationships between government spending and bank lending. Additionally, our analysis allows one to investigate the contribution of each Eurozone member state in the short-run and long-run model’s dynamics, providing significant outcomes for the implementation of economic policy and the need for fiscal discipline in the Eurozone.
Governance mediation in the era of disruptive technologies: unveiling new perspectives on the risk of material misstatements
Authors: Elnahass Marwa , Jia Xinrui , Crawford Louise
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the mediating effects of corporate governance mechanisms like the board of directors on the association between disruptive technology adoption by audit clients and the risk of material misstatements, including inherent risk and control risk. In particular, the authors study the mediating effects of board characteristics such as board size, independence and gender diversity.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a sample of 100 audit clients listed on the FTSE 100 from 2015 to 2021, this study uses structural equation modelling to test the research objectives.

Findings

The findings indicate a significant and negative association between disruptive technology adoption by audit clients and inherent risk. However, there is no significant evidence observed for control risk. The utilisation of disruptive technology by the audit client has a significant impact on the board characteristics, resulting in an increase in board size, greater independence and gender diversity. The authors also find strong evidence that board independence mediates the association between disruptive technology usage and both inherent risk and control risk. In addition, board size and gender exhibit distinct and differential mediating effects on the association and across the two types of risks.

Research limitations/implications

The study reveals that the significant role of using disruptive technology by audit clients in reducing the risk of material misstatements is closely associated with the board of directors, which makes audit clients place greater emphasis on the construction of effective corporate governance.

Practical implications

This study offers essential primary evidence that can assist policymakers and standard setters in formulating guidance and recommendations for board size, independence and gender quotas, ensuring the enhancement of effective governance and supporting the future of audit within the next generation of digital services.

Social implications

With respect to relevant stakeholders, it is imperative for audit clients to recognise that corporate governance represents a fundamental means of addressing the ramifications of applying disruptive technology, particularly as they pertain to inherent and control risks within the audit client.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the existing literature by investigating the joint impact of corporate governance and the utilisation of disruptive technology by audit clients on inherent risk and control risk, which has not been investigated by previous research.
Healthy eating index and muscle mass are associated stronger with blood pressure than muscle strength in adolescent girls living in urban area
Authors: Cahyanillah Dwi , Melani Vitria , Kuswari Mury , Sitoayu Laras , Angkasa Dudung
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the relationship between muscle strength, eating index and blood pressure in adolescent girls. Growing studies show earlier onset of hypertension in youth. The prevalence may deteriorate during the COVID-19 pandemic due to unhealthy behavioral changes. Muscle mass (MM) is reported to be associated with blood pressure (BP), but there are limited studies that observed the relationship between the functional properties of muscle (muscle strength [MS]), healthy eating index (HEI) and BP.

Design/methodology/approach

This cross-sectional study involved 499 girls aged 15–18 years. HEI was generated from a 24-h food recall. MM and body fat (BF) were measured by bioelectrical impendence analysis (BIA), and MS and BP were measured by hand grip and Tensimeter, respectively. Multiple linear tests were performed to obtain an adjusted model.

Findings

Almost five out of 100 girls had high BP (4.8%) and a good diet (4%). The majority of them had desirable MM (75.9%) and low MS (50.1%). HEI negatively and MS are positively associated with systolic blood pressure (SBP). The inclusion of MM in the model diminished the association between MS and SBP completely. After adjustment for age and BF, only MM (ß = 0.19, 95% CI = 0.35, 0.95) was associated with SBP. HEI was inversely (ß = −0.16, 95% CI = −0.31, −0.09) whereas MM (ß = 0.13, 95% CI = 0.11, 0.53) was positively associated with diastolic BP.

Research limitations/implications

Studies associating MM or MS with better physical performance and metabolic health are mostly reported in the elderly; current finding contributes to the lack of literature and implies the importance of examining those associations at a younger age.

Originality/value

HEI and MM are associated with young girls’ BP in different directions. Healthy eating and engagement in activities to optimize muscle function should be promoted in adolescent girls to alleviate the risk of getting cardiovascular disease.
Exploring determinants impacting foreign direct investment in the real estate sector: a study on the Indian economy
Authors: Mehta Niharika , Gupta Seema , Maitra Shipra
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Foreign direct investment in the real estate (FDIRE) sector is required to bridge the gap between investment needed and domestic funds. Further, foreign direct investment is gaining importance because other sources of raising finance such as External Commercial Borrowing and foreign currency convertible bonds have been banned in the Indian real estate sector. Therefore, the objective of the study is to explore the determinants attracting foreign direct investment in real estate and to assess the impact of those variables on foreign direct investments in real estate.

Design/methodology/approach

Johansen cointegration test, vector error correction model along with variance decomposition and impulse response function are employed to understand the nexus of the relationship between various macroeconomic variables and foreign direct investment in real estate.

Findings

The results indicate that infrastructure, GDP and tourism act as drivers of foreign direct investment in real estate. However, interest rates act as a barrier.

Originality/value

This article aimed at exploring factors attracting FDIRE along with estimating the impact of identified variables on FDI in real estate. Unlike other studies, this study considers FDI in real estate instead of foreign real estate investments.
Friction stir welding and processing of pipes: a status report on joining, materials, and industry applications
Authors: Gangil Namrata , Siddiquee Arshad Noor , Yadav Jitendra , Yadav Shashwat , Khare Vedant , Mittal Neelmani , Sharma Sambhav , Srivastava Rittik , Mohammed Sohail Mazher Ali Khan M.A.K.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to compile a comprehensive status report on pipes/piping networks across different industrial sectors, along with specifications of materials and sizes, and showcase welding avenues. It further extends to highlight the promising friction stir welding as a single solid-state pipe welding procedure. This paper will enable all piping, welding and friction stir welding stakeholders to identify scope for their engagement in a single window.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is a review paper, and it is mainly structured around sections on materials, sizes and standards for pipes in different sectors and the current welding practice for joining pipe and pipe connections; on the process and principle of friction stir welding (FSW) for pipes; identification of main welding process parameters for the FSW of pipes; effects of process parameters; and a well-carved-out concluding summary.

Findings

A well-carved-out concluding summary of extracts from thoroughly studied research is presented in a structured way in which the avenues for the engagement of FSW are identified.

Research limitations/implications

The implications of the research are far-reaching. The FSW is currently expanding very fast in the welding of flat surfaces and has evolved into a vast number of variants because of its advantages and versatility. The application of FSW is coming up late but catching up fast, and as a late starter, the outcomes of such a review paper may support stake holders to expand the application of this process from pipe welding to pipe manufacturing, cladding and other high-end applications. Because the process is inherently inclined towards automation, its throughput rate is high and it does not need any consumables, the ultimate benefit can be passed on to the industry in terms of financial gains.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the only review exclusively for the friction stir welding of pipes with a well-organized piping specification detailed about industrial sectors. The current pipe welding practice in each sector has been presented, and the avenues for engaging FSW have been highlighted. The FSW pipe process parameters are characteristically distinguished from the conventional FSW, and the effects of the process parameters have been presented. The summary is concise yet comprehensive and organized in a structured manner.
Incorporation of vasa previa screening into a routine anomaly scan: A single center cohort study
Authors: Nwandison Millicent , Daly‐Jones Elizabeth , Drought Alexandra , Story Lisa , De‐Rosnay Philippe , Sebire Neil , Nyberg David , Oyelese Yinka
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Vasa previa (VP), defined as unprotected fetal vessels traversing the membranes over the cervix, is associated with a high perinatal mortality when undiagnosed prenatally. Conversely, prenatal diagnosis with ultrasound and cesarean delivery before the membranes rupture is associated with excellent outcomes. However, controversy exists regarding screening for VP. In the UK, routine screening for VP is not recommended. The objective of this study was to report the incidence of VP and our experience in the detection of VP with a universal screening protocol at the time of the second‐trimester fetal anomaly scan with third‐trimester confirmation in an unselected population of pregnancies.

Material and methods

We performed a single‐center historical cohort study of all pregnant women who underwent routine second‐trimester anomaly screening scans at West Middlesex University Hospital, London, UK, between 2012 and 2016. Over 5 years, every patient undergoing routine anomaly screening was evaluated for VP using a systematic protocol during their 20‐week anomaly scan. Suspected cases of VP were rescanned in the third trimester by specialist sonographers with an interest in VP. The primary outcomes were the incidence and detection of VP.

Results

During the study period, 24 690 anatomy scans were performed. A total of 64 patients were identified as having potential VP at the second‐trimester anomaly screening scan, of which 19 were confirmed by the specialist sonographer in the third trimester and at delivery. The screen positive rate was 0.26% (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.20%–0.32%). VP at birth was found in 19/24690 births (1:1299 [95% CI: 1:832–1:2030] births). Universal screening for VP using our protocol had a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 99.78% (95% CI: 99.72%–99.84%). The false‐positive rate of the second‐trimester screen was 0.18% (95% CI: 0.13–0.24). There were no false positives or false negatives at delivery. Of the 19 patients with confirmed VP, 17 had scheduled cesarean deliveries, and two required emergency deliveries due to antepartum hemorrhage. One baby died, giving a perinatal mortality of 5%.

Conclusions

VP complicates approximately 1:1300 pregnancies. Routine screening for VP yielded a 100% detection rate. We suggest the inclusion of structured VP assessment in standard fetal anomaly screening programs.
Peripheral lymphocyte count as an indicator of radiotherapy effectiveness in hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Lin Hanqing , Gao Chunli , Heng Yu , Zhu Xiaoke , Wang Tian , Zhou Liang , Zhang Ming , Wu Chunping , Tao Lei
Published: April 2024

Objectives

To explore the predictive significance of baseline absolute peripheral lymphocyte counts (ALC) in the effectiveness of radiation in hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPSCC) patients.

Design, Setting, and Participants

A retrospective study of pathologically confirmed HPSCC patients who had definitive radiation between January 2020 and January 2022 at Fudan University Eye and ENT Hospital. The routine blood results of patients were obtained to determine if the baseline ALC was connected with the response to radiation. The receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve and LASSO‐based Cox regression were employed to assess the predictive value of ALC for the efficacy of radiotherapy (RT).

Main Outcome Measures and Results

RT induced a considerable drop in ALC and the level of ALC did not revert to the baseline values 1 year after radiation. The baseline level of ALC was higher in patients who met complete response after RT. The baseline ALC and monocyte counts demonstrated the predictive value of radiation effectiveness and ALC was an independent predictor.

Conclusion

In HPSCC, lymphocytes were sensitive to radiation and reduced significantly during RT. The baseline ALC might be regarded as a predictive indicator of the effectiveness of RT.
Long‐term clinical and radiological trajectories of craniocervical vasculopathy in children with PHACE syndrome
Authors: Hausman‐Kedem Moran , Widjaja Elysa , Vieira Neto Ronan J. , Pope Elena , Lara‐Corrales Irene , Dlamini Nomazulu , Macgregor Daune , Pulcine Elizabeth , Deveber Gabrielle , Moharir Mahendranath
Published: April 2024

Aim

To describe the rates of stroke and craniocervical vasculopathy progression in children with posterior fossa malformations, hemangioma, arterial anomalies, coarctation of the aorta/cardiac defects, and eye abnormalities (PHACE) syndrome.

Method

A single‐center, retrospective natural history study of children with PHACE syndrome. Clinical and sequential neuroimaging data were reviewed to study the characteristics and progression of vasculopathy and calculate the rates of arterial ischemic stroke (AIS) and transient ischemic stroke (TIA). Vasculopathy progression was defined as worsening or new vascular findings on follow‐up magnetic resonance angiography.

Results

Thirty‐four children with cerebrovascular abnormalities at the PHACE syndrome diagnosis were studied (age range = 2 to 18 years, 85% females). Median age at the initial diagnosis was 5.5 months (interquartile range = 1–52 months); median age at the last follow‐up was 8 years 6 months (range = 2–18 years). Overall, 10 (29%) patients had radiological progression of their vasculopathy, with a cumulative progression‐free rate of 73% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.57–0.89), and a cumulative TIA‐free and AIS‐free rate of 87% (95% CI = 0.745–0.99). Vasculopathy was continuously progressive in six patients (18%) at the last follow‐up. Three patients (9%) had TIA and all had progressive vasculopathy. One patient had presumed perinatal AIS at the initial PHACE diagnosis, while no other patient experienced an AIS during the follow‐up.

Interpretation

In children with PHACE syndrome, craniocervical vasculopathy is non‐progressive and asymptomatic in the majority of cases. The risk of ischemic stroke in these children is very low. Larger and prospective studies are necessary to confirm these findings.

What this paper adds

Cerebrovascular vasculopathy in children with PHACE syndrome is predominantly non‐progressive and asymptomatic.

Cerebrovascular vasculopathy in children with PHACE syndrome is associated with a low risk of stroke during childhood.

In children with progressive vasculopathy, neuroimaging progression was generally slow over the first years of life.
Twin management in the mare: A review
Authors: Peere Sofie , van Den Branden Emma , Papas Marion , Gerits Ilse , Smits Katrien , Govaere Jan
Published: April 2024

Twin gestation in the mare is undesirable and can have disastrous consequences. As in many cases, the key to success in twin management lies in a thorough follow‐up and accurate recording of clinical findings in the pre‐breeding examination. A pregnancy diagnosis in the mobility phase is imperative for a good outcome in the event of twin reduction. If a twin gestation is not diagnosed during this early pregnancy stage, several other procedures exist for managing post‐fixation twins (>16 days) with varying degrees of success. Most twin pregnancies are the result of multiple ovulations (dizygotic twins). However, monozygotic twins are also sporadically diagnosed, due to the increasing number of transferred in vitro produced equine embryos. In these cases, the most optimal treatment strategy still needs to be determined. This review provides an overview of the various twin reduction techniques described with the expected prognosis as well as of some less reported techniques with their results. In addition, physiological events and the reduction techniques are demonstrated to the user in virtual 3‐dimensional illustrations.
FoodBlock: A secure and cost‐optimal framework for online food ordering using blockchain
Authors: Mittal Uday , Goyal Shivam , Gummana Egna Praneeth , Chamola Vinay , Agarwal Shivi , Mathur Trilok
Published: April 2024

The internet has drastically changed trade and interpersonal interactions since the introduction of the pandemic. Food delivery services have expanded significantly in recent years. These services link customers with restaurants using the internet, enabling quick delivery of mobile meals. But as these businesses grow, dealing with problems like fraud and inefficiencies that may lower the quality of their services is more crucial than ever. This article lists the drawbacks of the existing food delivery services and recommends how to fix them. A blockchain‐based architecture is also used to increase security and reliability, and an auction process encourages fairness and transparency for both riders and restaurants. We have developed an auction model where the riders can quote the price they estimate for a particular delivery. Additionally, a machine‐predicted bid is also used to prevent the case where the riders would try to exploit the restaurants. This method leads to a better way of implementing online food delivery services, safeguarding the interests of customers, riders, and restaurants.
Fatigue crack growth simulation by extended finite element method: A review of case studies
Authors: Sedmak Aleksandar
Published: April 2024

Numerical simulation of fatigue crack growth (FCG) is presented, based on the application of the extended finite element method (XFEM). Couple of case studies are presented, as a review of recent experience of the Belgrade school of XFEM simulations, established at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering. Case studies comprised Charpy specimen with initial crack at the notch tip, oil rig pipe with an axial surface crack, pressure vessels with a crack at the welded joint with connecting pipe, turbine shaft with a crack at the transition radius, optimization of a wing spar in respect to FCG, the effect of mesh size on fatigue life estimation of a stringer panel, fatigue life estimation of wing‐to‐fuselage connecting lug, geometry effect on fatigue life of orthopedic plates and fatigue life of hip implant. Based on these case studies, XFEM is discussed in respect to its accuracy and efficiency. It is concluded that XFEM is a versatile tool for simulation of FCG, providing an excellent option for precise and reliable fatigue life of a cracked component.
Immunogenicity of Enhanced Influenza Vaccines Against Mismatched Influenza Strains in Older Adults: A Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Youhanna John , Tran Vy , Hyer Randall , Domnich Alexander
Published: April 2024

Antigenic drift is a major driver of viral evolution and a primary reason why influenza vaccines must be reformulated annually. Mismatch between vaccine and circulating viral strains negatively affects vaccine effectiveness and often contributes to higher rates of influenza‐related hospitalizations and deaths, particularly in years dominated by A(H3N2). Several countries recommend enhanced influenza vaccines for older adults, who are at the highest risk of severe influenza complications and mortality. The immunogenicity of enhanced vaccines against heterologous A(H3N2) strains has been examined in nine studies to date. In six studies, an enhanced, licensed MF59‐adjuvanted trivalent inactivated influenza vaccine (aIIV3) consistently increased heterologous antibody titers relative to standard influenza vaccine, with evidence of a broad heterologous immune response across multiple genetic clades. In one study, licensed high‐dose trivalent inactivated influenza vaccine (HD‐IIV3) also induced higher heterologous antibody titers than standard influenza vaccine. In a study comparing a higher dose licensed quadrivalent recombinant influenza vaccine (RIV4) with HD‐IIV3 and aIIV3, no significant differences in antibody titers against a heterologous strain were observed, although seroconversion rates were higher with RIV4 versus comparators. With the unmet medical need for improved influenza vaccines, the paucity of studies especially with enhanced vaccines covering mismatched strains highlights a need for further investigation of cross‐protection in older adults.
Diversity in research on aging: A new series
Authors: Rhodes Ramona L. , Cummings‐Vaughn Lenise A. , Lundebjerg Nancy E. , Hardi Angela , Obrusniak Erin E. , Yeo Gwen
Published: April 2024

This editorial comments on the article by Gilmore et al.
Challenges in decision‐making support processes regarding living kidney donation: A qualitative study
Authors: Wada Yuri , Ueno Takayoshi , Umeshita Koji , Hagiwara Kuniko
Published: April 2024

Background

Previous studies on decision‐making of living kidney donors have indicated issues regarding donors' autonomy is inherent in decision‐making to donate their kidney. Establishing effective decision‐making support that guarantees autonomy of living kidney donor candidates is important.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to identify the difficulties in the decision‐making support when clinical transplant coordinators advocating for the autonomy of donor candidates of living donor kidney transplantation and to identify the methods to deal with these difficulties.

Design

A qualitative descriptive study.

Participants

Ten clinical transplant coordinators supporting living kidney donors.

Approach

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted using an interview guide. The modified grounded theory approach was utilised to analyse.

Results

Three categories related to difficulties were as follows: issues inherent to the interaction between coordinators, donor candidates and their families; issues regarding the environment and institutional background in which coordinators operate; and emotional labour undertaken by coordinators in the decision‐making support process. Additionally, five categories related to methods were as follows: assessing the autonomy of donor candidates based on the coordinators nursing experience; interventions for the donor candidates and their family members based on the coordinators nursing experience; smooth coordination with medical staff; clarifying and asserting their views as coordinators; and readiness to protect the donor candidates.

Conclusion

The involvement of highly experienced coordinators with excellent and assertive communication skills as well as the ability to reflect on their own practices is essential. Moreover, we may need to fundamentally review the transplant community, where power domination is inherent.
Association of adipokine levels with obesity in periodontal health and disease: A systematic review with meta‐analysis and meta‐regression
Authors: Kandaswamy Eswar , Lee Chun‐Teh , Gururaj Soumya Bardvalli , Shivanaikar Sachin , Joshi Vinayak M.
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to investigate the levels of serum, gingival crevicular fluid (GCF), and salivary adipokines and their possible relationship with periodontitis and obesity. An electronic search was conducted in the following databases: PubMed/ Medline, Scopus, and EBSCOhost through February 2023. Two independent reviewers screened the titles, abstracts, and full text of all the studies. Studies comparing the levels of adipokines in GCF, serum, and/or saliva in subjects with obesity and periodontitis (group 1), subjects with normal weight and periodontitis (group 2), and subjects with obesity and gingival health (group 3) were included. Meta‐analyses and meta‐regression were performed on the data from included studies. Seventeen studies with study participants ranging from 30 to 120 were included with subjects in each group ranging from 10 to 40. There was a significant increase in levels of serum TNF‐α, leptin, IL‐6, and CRP between groups 1 and 2 (p < .05). In GCF, TNF‐α and resistin levels were significantly higher (p < .05) in Group 1 vs. 2. Serum level of leptin was higher for group 1 vs. 3 (p < .05). Meta‐regression analysis revealed that the obesity definition (body mass index (BMI) cut‐off value >25 or >30) was significant for serum resistin (p < .05) and GCF resistin (p < .05) between group 1 and 2. The current analysis indicates that both periodontitis and obesity can modulate the pro‐inflammatory cytokines at systemic and local levels. This bidirectional interaction of periodontitis and obesity via the inflammation pathway seems likely plausible. Further studies are required to elucidate this mechanism in more detail.
Pattern of paresis in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A cohort study
Authors: Hu Nan , Zhang Lei , Shen Dongchao , Yang Xunzhe , Liu Mingsheng , Cui Liying
Published: April 2024

Objective

To explored the dynamic changes of split phenomenon in multiple antagonistic muscle groups among amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients.

Methods

One hundred and twenty limb‐onset ALS patients were followed up regularly with an interval of 3 months. Two clinicians collected the muscle strength of elbow extensor‐flexor, wrist flexor‐extensor, knee extensor‐flexor and ankle flexor‐extensor individually.

Results

Significant differences in muscles strength were observed between flexors and extensors of elbow, wrist, knee, and ankle (p < 0.05). The frequency of split phenomenon of elbow extensor‐flexor was 15.1%, 13.8%, 19.1%, 17.8%, and 12.5% at the baseline, 3‐, 6‐, 9‐, and 12‐month follow‐up points, respectively. For wrist flexor‐extensor, the frequency was 20.8%, 18.2%, 18.6%, 19.9%, and 20.4%, respectively. For knee extensor‐flexor, the frequency was 3.0%, 8.0%, 7.6%, 8.4%, and 8.9%, respectively. For ankle flexor‐extensor, the frequency was 8.8%, 9.2%, 10.9%, 15.4%, and 15.7%, respectively. For muscles with 3–4 levels of muscle strength, significant dissociation of muscle strength was common, especially among patients with a slow progression rate.

Conclusion

Split phenomenon of muscle strength between antagonistic muscles was common in limb‐onset ALS patients. Muscle strength and progression rate were influence factors of the split phenomenon. As disease progressed, the split phenomenon gradually became obvious, and might then slowly disappeared due to the loss of LMNs.
Taurine dynamics in serum during the oestrous cycle in buffaloes
Authors: Joshi Mansi , Kumar Varun , Singh Dheer , Onteru Suneel Kumar
Published: April 2024

Estrus identification is one of the common issues in buffaloes because of their short estrus duration and silent estrus problem. Hence, specific biomarkers facilitating in identifying the estrus stage would be helpful to buffalo farmers and researchers. In our previous studies, taurine, a non‐protein amino acid that helps in the secretion of reproductive hormones such as GnRH, was found to be associated with postpartum anestrus in buffaloes. Therefore, the present study was conducted to explore the level of taurine in serum during different stages of the oestrous cycle in healthy cyclic buffaloes. Blood samples were collected from healthy cyclic buffaloes (n = 4), and taurine was estimated at the estrus (0th day), proestrus (−2nd day), metestrus (3rd day) and diestrus (+10th day) stages using TLC method. The days of the oestrous cycle were determined by ultrasonography and observation of behavioural signs by trained professionals. The results revealed that taurine was consistently present in the serum. However, the highest concentration of taurine was observed at the proestrus (0.20 ± 0.03 mg/mL) stage, which was greater (p < .05) than metestrus (0.10 ± 0.05 mg/mL) and diestrus (0.13 ± 0.03 mg/mL) stages, but comparable with the estrus stage. These results were also validated in the simulated population datasets of population size 6 to 10,000. Further, ROC curve analysis for the large simulated population indicated the efficiency of taurine to distinguish proestrus from metestrus and diestrus stages at a lower cutoff value of <0.1643 mg/mL with 60% sensitivity and specificity. Therefore, the present study concludes that serum taurine concentration could help in detecting proestrus stage of buffalo estrous cycle.
Dynamics of energy transition and climate actions on sustainable cities: A cross country comparison of East Asia and Pacific
Authors: Yasmeen Humaira , Zameer Hashim
Published: April 2024

Massive energy consumption and poor regulatory framework in urban areas have created environmental slums and are a serious threat to sustainability. East Asian and Pacific economies are vulnerable to climate crises and striving for sustainability by transition to green energy and taking climate initiatives. In the past, no study has explored the effectiveness of energy transitions and climate actions in the context of East Asia and Pacific. To understand the effectiveness of these efforts, this study has been planned and executed to examine the impact of energy transition and climate actions, along with emissions from residential and commercial buildings, per capita income, and effective governance, on sustainable cities and communities in East Asia and the Pacific region. The study utilizes panel data of six high‐income countries and 11 lower‐middle and upper‐middle income countries from 2000 to 2022 for comparative empirical analysis. Empirical analysis is performed using truncated regression due to the nature of the data. The study found that energy transition, climate actions, and governance effectiveness increase the sustainability of cities and communities. However, emissions from residential buildings and per capita income adversely affect the sustainability of cities and communities. Furthermore, the dynamics of energy transition and climate change vary according to the income classifications of East Asian and Pacific countries. Energy transition and emissions showed a higher impact in HICs, while climate actions were more resilient in lower‐middle and upper‐middle income countries. These findings emphasize the transition to clean and green energy, prompt climate policy actions, and effective governance to ensure sustainability in East Asian and Pacific cities and communities.
A transconjunctival surgical technique for dacryocystotomy in dogs with foreign body‐induced dacryocystitis
Authors: Allgoewer Ingrid , Soukup Petr , Ludewig Eberhard
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to describe a simplified, less invasive dacryocystotomy technique that allows for complete inspection of the canine lacrimal sac and to retrospectively evaluate this surgical technique in a larger series of dogs. The anatomical background of the canine nasolacrimal system is described as a basis for the surgical technique.

Methods

Records of dogs from 2003 to 2023 which were diagnosed with dacryocystitis due to presumed foreign body and underwent surgical exploration and removal of foreign bodies within the lacrimal sac using this technique were reviewed. Postoperative treatment and outcome were evaluated.

Results

Records of 48 dogs were included. A foreign body was discovered during the surgery or upon retrieval of the catheter in 85% of cases (41/48). An indwelling catheter was placed in 83% of cases (40/48) for a median of 21 days. At the last recheck, the nasolacrimal duct was patent in 87% of the cases (41/47). The median follow‐up time was 34 days (3–1255 days). The most commonly affected breeds were Golden retrievers (11) and dachshunds (8). The following complications occurred: two dogs removed or partly removed the catheter themselves (day 7, day 14), and one dog showed marked irritation at the catheter site which had to be removed by day 10.

Conclusions

The transconjunctival dacryocystotomy technique is simple and less invasive than other described techniques with a successful long‐term outcome in the majority of cases.
Global pharmaceutical care approaches to autism spectrum disorder: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Sape Relebogile Masekela , Shead Dorothy Agnes , Maseko Busisiwe Constance
Published: April 2024

Objective:

The aim of this review is to map the literary evidence on pharmaceutical care approaches and trends being seen globally for the treatment of the signs and symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Introduction:

ASD is a neurodevelopmental condition synonymous with sliding-scale behavioral, communication, learning, and social problems. Causes include genetic and environmental factors. Pharmaceuticals are prescribed to treat the behavioral patterns of ASD.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will incorporate studies that report on the pharmaceutical care approaches used to treat the signs and symptoms of ASD as well as to identify the global trends related to their use. Studies not falling under the ASD umbrella will be excluded. All primary, secondary, and gray literature will be included. No language restrictions will be applied. Studies from January 1, 1984, will be included.

Methods:

This review will be conducted in line with the JBI methodology for scoping reviews and reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews. A preliminary search of MEDLINE (PubMed) will be followed by searches of Emcare (Ovid), Nursing and Allied Health Premium (ProQuest), and Google Scholar. Two independent reviewers will screen titles and abstracts and extract data from selected sources. A third reviewer will adjudicate any conflicts until consensus is reached. The findings will be presented in a narrative summary with accompanying gap maps, figures, and tables.

Review registration:

Open Science Framework https://osf.io/c234m
Neural Network Modeling of a Stereolithography Printed Mesostructure
Authors: Schmitz Anne
Published: April 2024

This paper addresses the scarcity of comprehensive studies on the collective impact of various parametric lattice designs on mesostructure functionality. Focusing on optimizing the energy absorption of a serpentine mesostructure made using stereolithography, this research leverages a feedforward neural network to explore the interplay between line width, number of turns, and material properties on the energy absorbed by the structure. Compression simulations using a finite element model, covering a range of configurations, provided the dataset for neural network training. The resulting network was used to probe correlations between geometric variables, material, and energy absorption. Additionally, a neural network sensitivity analysis explored the impact of hidden layers and number of neurons on the network's performance, demonstrating the network's robustness. The optimized mesostructure configuration, identified by the neural network, maximized energy absorption. Using foundational mechanics of materials concepts, the discussion explains how the geometry and material of the cellular mesostructure affect structural stiffness.
Resilience and Sustainability in the Context of Future Disruption
Authors: Fairbairn Catherine
Published: April 2024

This literature review is focused on the resilience and sustainability discourse within New Zealand. The aim of the review was to inquire how the Espiner et al (2017) paper had been used in other literature; and also to conduct research to create a library of other relevant articles based on resilience and sustainability specific to New Zealand. As a result of climate change, sustainable futures and understanding resilience has been pushed to the forefront of hazard management. This project therefore aims to condense the research surrounding resilience and sustainability within New Zealand to a singular resource. This has created a comprehensive catalogue of all the research available from a New Zealand context that also highlights the areas that require further research. From a base point COVID and tourism is well researched within New Zealand however the value of relationships and communities doesn’t appear to be as well researched. Overall, this literature review can act as a resource to others researching the ever-pressing realities New Zealand and the world will face due to climate change.

Espiner, S., Orchiston, C., & Higham, J. (2017). Resilience and sustainability: A complementary relationship? Towards a practical conceptual model for the sustainability–resilience nexus in tourism. Journal of sustainable tourism, 25(10), 1385-1400.

Supervised by: Research Associate Professor Caroline Orchisten
Te Whatu Ora EV
Authors: Plant Bethany
Published: April 2024

This research project looks at the implications of Te Whatu Ora Southern transitioning their 300 fleet vehicles to EVs, with the primary focus of this study being Wakari hospital. The key questions this study focuses on are: How would this transition to EVs affect the transport emissions by Te Whatu Ora Southern? What would the cost savings of this transition be? What time of day would be best for Wakari hospital to charge the vehicles and how much would they save by charging at specific times? As Te Whatu Ora Southern ranges from Oamaru to Invercargill and Queenstown, and with around 300 fleet vehicles, the problems to solve were tackled by first looking at Wakari hospital and using results from this hospital to scale to the whole fleet. This research was done by analyzing data supplied by Te Whatu Ora Southern and appropriate literature exploring EVs and emissions reduction. The main results of this research showed that by switching the fleet vehicles to EVs, the road travel emissions would decrease by 80-90%, and that it would be cheapest for Wakari Hospital to charge their vehicles from midnight to 8am, however more research would need to be done in order to implement a more detailed charging plan. The key impact of this research is carbon emission reduction and how Te Whatu Ora could scale these results for not just the southern region but the whole of New Zealand.

Supervised by: Arjan Abeynaike, Craig Cliff
Anticipating Future Technologies
Authors: Evans Jodie , Virens Abbi
Published: April 2024

This paper explores the social dimensions of a potential green hydrogen transition in New Zealand. As an emerging technology, green hydrogen development and implementation is limited and therefore it is difficult to predict how such innovation will influence wider society. Social research is currently limited to acceptability studies which fail to capture the wider ideologies at play. Media articles offer a good opportunity to explore how the topic of green hydrogen is being introduced to the New Zealand public, helping us to understand how technical discourse is converted into conventional understanding. This research analyses contemporary media to identify the dominant narrative being presented to the public. Critiques of the dominant green hydrogen narrative show that this technology’s ‘business as usual’ approach has the potential to perpetuate contemporary energy system issues, suggesting that replacing fossil fuels is not enough to encourage social transformation. However, these critiques also suggest that there are opportunities to reimagine green hydrogen applications that better align with notions of energy justice and democracy.

Supervised by: Abbi Virens

Scholarship Project Funded by: GNS Green Hydrogen Programme NZ
The Drop for Good ‘Toolkit’
Authors: Wood Phoebe
Published: April 2024

A reuse scheme such as Drop for Good achieves circularity within a student flatting community. This ‘how to’ guide on the running of Drop for Good exists to ensure the initiatives continued success and empower other institutions to reduce student flatting waste. The handbook provides guidance around the important relationships, messages and features of a tertiary reuse scheme. Insights from semi-structured interviews with experts in zero-waste and community engagement have informed these recommendations. Surveys conducted on Otago students and event volunteers revealed the initiative’s strengths and determined the Drop for Good ‘wish list’. The key questions of this study are: What are the possible models for a tertiary reuse scheme? How can we best engage students in the circular economy? What are the potential barriers to implementing a reuse scheme at other tertiary institutions? How can Drop for Good become more accessible to students at Otago University? Keeping materials circulating and functioning at their highest potential helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with the creation and distribution of goods. The primary aim of this research is to empower other tertiary institutions to challenge students’ linear thinking and reduce waste created by student flatting.

Supervised by: Jesikah Triscott, Ray O’Brien
Effect of background gas composition on the stoichiometry and lithium ion conductivity of pulse laser deposited epitaxial lithium lanthanum tantalate (Li3xLa1/3−xTaO3)
Authors: Brummel Ian A. , Zhou Chuanzhen , Ihlefeld Jon F.
Published: April 2024

Lithium lanthanum tantalate (Li3xLa1/3−xTaO3, x = 0.075) thin films were grown via pulsed laser deposition using background gas atmospheres with varying partial pressures of oxygen and argon. The background gas composition was varied from 100% to 6.6% oxygen, with the pressure fixed at 150 mTorr. The maximum ion conductivity of 1.5 × 10−6 S/cm was found for the film deposited in 100% oxygen. The ion conductivity of the films was found to decrease with reduced oxygen content from 100% to 16.6% O2 in the background gas. The 6.6% oxygen background condition produced ion conductivity that approached that of the 100% oxygen condition film. The lithium transfer from the target to the film was found to decrease monotonically with decreasing oxygen content in the background gas but did not account for all changes in the ion conductivity. The activation energy of ion conduction was measured and found to correlate well with the measured ion conductivity trends. Analysis of x-ray diffraction results revealed that the films also exhibited a change in the lattice parameter that directly correlated with the ion conduction activation energy, indicating that a primary factor for determining the conductivity of these films is the changing size of the ion conduction bottleneck, which controls the activation energy of ion conduction.