bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Working with Phage P22
Authors: Figueroa-Bossi Nara , Balbontín Roberto , Bossi Lionello
Published: October 2022

Transduction experiments in Escherichia coli and Salmonella are usually performed with virulent phage variants. A widely used P1 mutant, called P1 vir, carries one or more uncharacterized mutations that prevent formation of lysogens. In the case of P22, by far the most frequently used variant is named P22 HT105/1 int-201. This phage has a high transducing (HT) frequency due to a mutant nuclease with lower specificity for the pac sequence. As a result, ∼50% of the P22 HT phage heads carry random transducing fragments of chromosomal DNA. The int mutation reduces the formation of stable lysogens. The basic steps in handling the P22 HT105/1 int-201 phage and in performing transduction experiments in Salmonella are described here.
Quick Transformation with Plasmid DNA
Authors: Figueroa-Bossi Nara , Balbontín Roberto , Bossi Lionello
Published: October 2022

Genomic engineering of Escherichia coli and Salmonella often requires introducing plasmids into strains obtained during the intermediate stages of the process. Such strains are typically transformed only once, making the preparation of large batches of competent cells for storage purposes unnecessary. Here, we describe a simple scaled-down procedure for transforming E. coli or Salmonella with plasmid DNA that uses as little as 2 mL of culture.
A Simple Method for Immunohistochemistry and Imaging of Mosquito Salivary Glands
Authors: Martin-Martin Ines , Alves E. Silva Thiago Luiz , Williams Adeline E. , Vega-Rodriguez Joel , Calvo Eric
Published: October 2022

Immunohistochemistry is a valuable technique that provides information on protein localization and interactions in tissues. Mosquito salivary gland immunohistochemistry requires the meticulous dissection of a delicate tissue. The integrity of the salivary glands must be closely monitored throughout the entire process to prevent structural damage and loss of saliva. This protocol describes a series of simple steps to perform salivary gland immunohistochemistry including tissue dissection, permeabilization, immunostaining, mounting, and imaging by confocal microscopy.
Acoustic-Related Mating Behavior in Tethered and Free-Flying Mosquitoes
Authors: League Garrett P. , Alfonso-Parra Catalina , Pantoja-Sánchez Hoover , Harrington Laura C.
Published: October 2022

Acoustics play an essential role in mosquito communication, particularly during courtship and mating. Mosquito mating occurs in flight and is coordinated by the perception of wingbeat tones. Flight tone frequencies have been shown to mediate sex recognition inAedes,Anopheles,Culex, andToxorhynchitesgenera and are thus a conserved feature of mating across the mosquito family (Culicidae). Upon recognizing a flying female, males respond phonotactically by lunging toward the female and initiating a precopulatory courtship flight interaction. During this interaction, males and females often harmonize their flight tones in a behavior known as harmonic convergence, and male acoustics display rapid frequency modulation. These acoustic phenomena have been characterized both in tethered and free-flying mosquitoes using similar audio recording and analysis methods. Further, the manipulation of mosquito acoustic-related mating behavior shows great promise as a tool for reproductive control strategies. In this brief methodological introduction, we provide an overview of the biological and technical concepts necessary for understanding the recording and analysis of mosquito mating acoustics.
Performing Immunohistochemistry in Mosquito Salivary Glands
Authors: Martin-Martin Ines , Alves E. Silva Thiago Luiz , Williams Adeline E. , Vega-Rodriguez Joel , Calvo Eric
Published: October 2022

Studying protein localization in mosquito salivary glands provides novel insights on the function and physiological relevance of salivary proteins and also provides an avenue to study interactions between mosquitoes and pathogens. Salivary proteins display compartmentalization. For example, proteins involved in blood feeding are stored in the medial and distal lateral lobes, whereas proteins related to sugar metabolism localize to the proximal portion of the lateral lobes. Immunohistochemistry assays use antibodies raised against recombinant salivary proteins to reveal the protein localization and interactions within the tissue. In this assay, permeabilization of the salivary glands allows the antibodies to enter the cells and bind their target proteins. The primary antibody–antigen complexes are later marked with fluorescently labeled secondary antibodies. Antibodies that recognize pathogen-specific proteins can also be incorporated in these assays, providing information about pathogen localization within the salivary glands or pathogen interactions with mosquito salivary proteins. Here, we introduce immunohistochemistry assays for use in mosquito salivary glands.
Working with Bacteria, Phage, and Plasmids
Authors: Figueroa-Bossi Nara , Balbontín Roberto , Bossi Lionello
Published: October 2022

Methods for the in vivo manipulation of bacterial genomes have improved greatly in recent years because of the discovery of new mechanisms and the gigantic leap forward in DNA-sequencing technology. Many cutting-edge approaches still rely on a variety of technical routines, the correct implementation of which is critical for the success of an experiment. Here, we introduce some of these procedures as used for Escherichia coli and Salmonella enterica. We begin by reviewing the aspects of the biology of these two species that are most relevant for their manipulation in the laboratory.
Navigational space for the absence of sustainability assurance in China
Authors: Li Teng , Hidayah Nunung Nurul , Lyu Ou , Lowe Alan
Published: October 2022

Purpose

This case study presents a critical analysis of why and how corporate managers in China are reluctant to adopt sustainability reporting assurance (SRA) provided by externally independent third-party assurers, despite the fact that it is acknowledged as a value-adding activity globally.

Design/methodology/approach

A longitudinal fieldwork case study was conducted from 2014 to 2019 in a Chinese central state-owned enterprise (CSOE), a pioneer in sustainability reporting practice since the mid-2000s, to collect first-hand empirical data on managerial perceptions of the adoption of external SRA. Semi-structured interviews with 25 managers involved in sustainability (reporting) practice were conducted. The interview data were triangulated with an analysis of archival documents and board meeting minutes pertaining to the undertakings of sustainability practices in the case study organization.

Findings

Our empirical analysis suggests that while managers recognize the benefits of adopting external SRA in enhancing the legitimacy of sustainability accountability, they oppose SRA because of their deep-rooted allegiance to the dominant logic of sociopolitical stability in China. SRA is envisaged to risk the stability of the socialist ideology with which CSOEs are imbued. Therefore, any transformational approach to accepting a novel (foreign) practice must be molded to gain control and autonomy, thereby maintain the hegemony of stability logic. Instead of disregarding external verification, managers of our case SOE appear to harness sustainability reporting as a navigational space to engage in internally crafted alternative manners in order to resist the rationality of SRA.

Originality/value

The empirical analysis presents a nuanced explanation as to why internal managers have hitherto been reluctant to embrace the embedding of independent assurance into the sustainability reporting process. Our prolonged fieldwork provides ample context-specific, intra-organizational evidence regarding the absence of SRA in Chinese CSOEs, which warrants more attention given their considerable presence in the global economy. In addition, the empirical analysis contributes to our understanding of the managerial capture of sustainability issues in a specific context of state capitalism and how organizations and individuals in an authoritarian regime interpret and respond to novel discourses derived from distinct institutional settings.
The lived experience of medical students during COVID-19 pandemic: the impact on lifestyle and mental wellbeing
Authors: Alzayani Salman , Al-Roomi Khaldoon , Ahmed Jamil
Published: October 2022

Purpose

The paper intends to explore the lived experiences of medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on their lifestyles and mental wellbeing.

Design/methodology/approach

Fourteen medical students from the College of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Arabian Gulf University, Bahrain, were enrolled, and their narratives were obtained. Data were analyzed and conducted using Colaizzi’s phenomenological descriptive method of enquiry.

Findings

The analysis identified two themes, along with nine subthemes, that were generated. The first theme focused on mental and social experiences, while the second focused on lifestyle changes. During the pandemic, students had time to reflect on themselves and started to think positively about their lives, although they felt fearful, uncertain, stressed and anxious due to preventive control measures that were mandated, including social distancing and lockdowns. Participants’ lifestyles changed generally negatively, as they adapted to the preventive measures, rendering them physically inactive and exposing them to unhealthy food and disturbed sleep.

Originality/value

The findings provide an insight into the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the lifestyle and mental wellbeing of medical students. Educational institutes need to offer their students both short as well as long-term health, social and mental support to overcome the impact of the pandemic on their lives.
Assessing the performance and productivity of labour in building construction projects through the application of work-based training practices
Authors: Manoharan Kesavan , Dissanayake Pujitha , Pathirana Chintha , Deegahawature Dharsana , Silva Renuka
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Sources highlight that lack of systematic labour training components results in low performance and productivity of labour, which leads the construction industry of many countries to face various challenges. This study aims to quantify the variations in the performance and productivity levels of labour in building construction projects through the applications of effective work-based training components.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive literature review and a series of experts’ discussions with action-oriented communication approaches were conducted to develop a set of practices related to labour training, performance assessment and productivity measurements within a framework. The developed practices were applied to around 100 labourers working on nine building construction projects through a construction supervisory training programme.

Findings

The study presents the detailed patterns of the significant changes in labour performance and productivity levels. The majority of trained labourers have grown to perform the work process with some relevant theoretical and operational knowledge and skills. The overall results spotlight the significant behavioural changes that can be observed in workforce operations by improving labour performance, which resulted in implementing effective labour-rewarding practices within a framework.

Research limitations/implications

Although the study findings were limited to the Sri Lankan context, the proposed practices can be applied to the industry practices of the construction sector of other developing countries and the other developing industries in similar ways/scenarios.

Practical implications

The study outcomes contribute to uplifting the work qualities of labourers with life-long learning opportunities and unlocking the potential barriers for expanding the local labour supply while controlling the excessive inclination of the local firms towards foreign labour. This paper describes further implications and future scopes of the study elaborately.

Originality/value

The study provides generalised mechanisms and practices that transform the labour characteristics and add new attributes for strengthening the values of construction supervision practices to obtain well-improved work outputs. The study outcomes reinforce the chain relationships among the training elements, labour performance and productivity levels, leading to upgrading current planning and operational management practices, especially adding constructive mechanisms in resource levelling and productivity benchmarking practices.
Towards a successful learning process of companies from developing countries involved in offshore outsourcing: proposal for an integrative analytical framework
Authors: N’Dri Amoin Bernadine , Su Zhan
Published: October 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to contribute to international business research by providing an integrative framework of the factors determining the learning process of outsourcing companies in developing countries.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic review of the literature was performed with an analysis of 84 articles published in peer-reviewed academic journals, published between 2000 and 2020.

Findings

The results show that the different factors should be seen as complementary and not mutually exclusive. It is the interaction between macro and micro factors that jointly shape the learning of developing country subcontractors. Moreover, the results of the analysis show that many existing studies have not been based on specific theoretical frameworks.

Research limitations/implications

This study develops a roadmap of the current state of research on the determinants of learning among developing country subcontractors and offers suggestions to guide future research. The authors conclude with a call for methodological advancement and theory development on the topic.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study proposes the first comprehensive review of the literature on the factors determining the learning of subcontractors in developing countries. The authors have tried to provide an integrative analytical framework to discuss what has been known and what needs to be known in this regard.
Factors affecting entrepreneurial intention among the rural population in India
Authors: Ali Jabir , Burhan Muqbil , Jabeen Zakia
Published: October 2022

Purpose

This paper aims at examining the factors affecting entrepreneurial intention (EI) among the rural adult population in India using the social cognitive theory (SCT).

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on the Adult Population Survey of the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor of 2017, covering 1,397 rural respondents from India. The data has been analysed using simple techniques such as Chi-square statistics, correlation and logistics regression.

Findings

About 16% of the rural adults have reported EI in India. A significant relationship emerged between the demographics of rural adults with and without intention towards entrepreneurship. Finally, the regression model representing two components of the SCT, that is, confidence towards entrepreneurship and outcome expectations from entrepreneurship, showed a significant impact on EI among the rural population when controlled by family size and working status.

Practical implications

This paper provides insights on factors affecting EI among rural adults, which can help in developing a policy framework for promoting new ventures among rural entrepreneurs. The result of the analysis indicates that the rural population need to be imparted the necessary skills to gain confidence in entrepreneurship, which should be aligned with the outcome expectations of the entrepreneurs.

Originality/value

This piece of research can be valuable for different stakeholders in adopting inclusive entrepreneurial initiatives. Moreover, entrepreneurship in rural areas has not gained much attention among scholars, and this study is intended to provide future research motivation.
Numerical and asymptotic solutions of the unsteady mixed convection boundary-layer flow over an expanding/contracting vertical cylinder
Authors: Merkin John H. , Lok Yian Yian , Pop Ioan
Published: October 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to obtain both the numerical and asymptotic solutions of the unsteady mixed convection flow and heat transfer over an expanding or contracting cylinder which is placed vertically.

Design/methodology/approach

Solutions of the governing ordinary (similarity) differential equations for the fluid flow and temperature field are obtained using the function bvp4c from MATLAB. The problem involves the Prandtl numberσ, the mixed convection parameterλand unsteadiness parameterSthat characterize an expanding or contracting cylinder. This solution approach is capable of producing multiple solutions once the necessary assumptions are provided.

Findings

It is found that solutions exist for all negative values ofS, expanding cylinder, and only for small positive values ofS, contracting cylinder. Further, more than one solution is observed; numerical computation shows that the critical point ofSbecomes singular asλapproaching zero. For the case of expanding cylinder, the mixed convection parameter has a significant effect on both the flow and heat transfer characteristics. Asymptotic analysis also shows that whenσis large, dual solutions exist for some values ofSandλ.

Originality/value

The present results are new and original for the study of the unsteady mixed convection flow and heat transfer over an expanding/contracting cylinder where numerical solutions are obtained for representative values of the involved parameters. Asymptotic solutions for largeλand largeσare derived.
A systematic review for a highly accessible green roof for Malaysian public institution buildings
Authors: Ali Ariff Azlan Ariff , Ahmad Zawawi Emma Marinie , Yunus Julitta , Kwong Qi Jie
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Despite its worldwide reputation as an effective solution to sustainable building development and energy efficiency, green roofs in Malaysian cities are rarely accessible. The architecture of the building primarily influences public accessibility, crime watch and safety level and events that encourage the public's engagement, which is evident in crowd density. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the social potential of highly accessible Malaysian green roofs as public space, initiated by the lack of local published material discussing on this topic.

Design/methodology/approach

This study reviews the current issues concerning limited public accessibility on Malaysian public institution green roofs by systematic literature review and thematic analysis by comparing the effectiveness of applicable public space strategies on the green roof.

Findings

The criteria that have been identified and considered as study parameters include architecture, safety and surveillance, and active functions. Through systematic review of available literature, these characteristics contribute positively to public participation within the public realm.

Social implications

The exploration of the social potential would establish a green roof as a thriving public space that welcomes the public from all ages and backgrounds, addressing the general public accessibility towards outdoor recreational areas, especially within dense urbanisation with diminishing green spaces.

Originality/value

This research highlights the key characteristics of the highly functional public space that could be applied in developing a guideline for designing future green roofs with high accessibility potential for the public in the city area, in parallel with the anticipated future growth in demand for green roofs infrastructure surrounding public buildings.
Coping with the COVID-19 pandemic: evidence from the apparel industry in Bangladesh and China
Authors: Su Jin , Hodges Nancy Nelson , Wu Huicheng (Jeff) , Iqbal Md Arif
Published: October 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to understand the impact of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic on the global textile and apparel supply chain from the perspectives of industry professionals within the two leading production countries: Bangladesh and China.

Design/methodology/approach

Applying the theory of dynamic capabilities, a qualitative research design was employed using interviews with a total of 33 apparel industry practitioners, 15 in Bangladesh and 18 in China.

Findings

Findings indicate that four factors primarily impacted the extent to which COVID-19 disrupted a firm's supply chain: firm size, channel diversification, sourcing method and product type. Viewed through the lens of the theory of dynamic capabilities, findings point to the need for firms to address the challenges brought about by supply chain disruptions by creating opportunities.

Originality/value

It is important to understand the impact of COVID-19 in real time and within the two largest textile and apparel–producing countries globally, as they have borne much of the brunt of the supply chain disruptions brought on by COVID-19. This empirical study makes contributions to the apparel supply chain literature as it provides an in-depth investigation of what textile and apparel firms in China and Bangladesh have learned from the COVID-19 experience to better prepare for future unexpected global events.
Bi-directional work-family conflict of home-based teachers in Taiwan during COVID-19: application of job demands-resources model
Authors: Hsieh Chuan-Chung , Liang Jyun-Kai , Li Hui-Chieh
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Drawing from the conservation of resource theory and the job demands-resources model, this study examines the bi-directional conflicts of work and family during COVID-19, and investigates the online teaching work-related antecedents and the mechanism shaping emotional exhaustion of teachers in Taiwan. Moreover, this study explores mindfulness in teaching as a possible moderator.

Design/methodology/approach

Data for analysis were collected from elementary school teachers via an online survey using a questionnaire comprising well-developed scales. The hypotheses were validated using structural equation modeling.

Findings

Results show that only family interfering with work conflict mediates the positive relationship of online teaching job demand with emotional exhaustion and negative relationship of online teaching job resource with emotional exhaustion. Results also evidence that mindfulness practiced by teachers can help them perceive their own feelings and thoughts non-judgmentally in face of job demands.

Originality/value

With the growing work-from-home trend, the current study revisits the impact of work demands and resources on work-family conflict, and examines whether Taiwanese teachers' perception towards online teaching would lead to different observations. The path that JD→WIF conflict→EE is well established in the literature, while COVID-19 brings to light another path JD→FIW conflict→EE, revealing insight into teachers' cognition and plight during the pandemic.
Digital transformation for maritime logistics capabilities improvement: cases in Indonesia
Authors: Iman Nofie , Amanda Muhammad Tafdhil , Angela Jovita
Published: October 2022

Purpose

The authors have faced rapid technological developments over the past few years. Still, the authors face challenges of maritime supply chain inefficiency, high costs and the low competitiveness of Indonesian ports. In line with the flow of this research, the purpose of this paper is to conceptualise best practices to improve port connectivity, which impacts improving maritime logistics capabilities in Indonesia that are relevant to the current situation.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors utilise surveys and interviews as a data collection method, where several sources were actors in the maritime logistics industry. The authors also use secondary data from the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Indonesia, online databases as well as trade magazines and newspapers. This paper conducts a multiple case study and principal component analysis (PCA) to meet the research objectives.

Findings

The intention to use port digitisation services will increase if the perceived usefulness of the service also increases. Also, if the negative coefficient of user trust rises, it will bring a very sharp decrease in customers' intentions to use. Furthermore, the high estimated value of context indicates that users expect to have a good experience using the application and bring benefit to their business.

Originality/value

Based on the authors’ knowledge, there has been no review about port digitalisation, specifically in Indonesia. The authors initially provided best practices to improve port connectivity, which can impact improving maritime logistics capabilities.
Exploring the sociotechnical system of Chinese internet literature online forums: a social network analytical approach
Authors: Tang Muh-Chyun , Jung Yu-En , LI Yuelin
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Chinese internet literature (CIL) platforms afford freedom for creative expression and opportunities for direct interactions between writers and fans and among fans. Enabled by these platforms' technological and commercial arrangement, a new form of literary production and consumption has emerged, the most significant of which is the role of fans participation. A social network analysis of the interaction patterns in online fan communities was conducted to investigate fan communication activities at scale. Of particular interest is how the socio-technical system of the site influences its network topology.

Design/methodology/approach

Online forums for 10 popular fiction titles in Qidian, the leading CIL platform, were analyzed. Social networks were constructed based on a post–reply–reply threaded discussion structure. Various aspects of fan interactions were analyzed, including number of replies per post, post length and emerging network patterns.

Findings

Similarities in network topology shared by CIL fan forums and other online communities, such as small-world and scale properties, were discovered; however, distinct network dynamics were also identified. Consistent with previous findings, writers and moderators, along with a few highly ranked fans, occupied the central positions in the network. This was due to their social roles and the nature of their posts rather than, as the conventional explanation goes, preferential attachment.

Originality/value

The findings demonstrate how community-specific circumstances and norms influence interaction patterns and the resultant network structure. It was revealed that in the CIL sites, the users adopted the technologies in unexpected ways. And the resulting network topology can be attributed to the interplay between the sites' official arrangement and users' adaptive tactics.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/OIR-11-2021-0596.
Critical analysis of Lean Six Sigma black belt certification courses offered in Brazil
Authors: Louzada Paula de Santi , Sigahi Tiago F.A.C. , Moraes Gustavo Hermínio Salati Marcondes de , Rampasso Izabela Simon , Anholon Rosley , Antony Jiju , Cudney Elizabeth A.
Published: October 2022

Purpose

This study aims to present an overview and analyze the Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (LSSBB) certifications offered by institutions operating in Brazil.

Design/methodology/approach

This research analyzed LSSBB certification courses offered by 48 institutions in Brazil by comparing the syllabi of the classes to the reference model proposed by the American Society for Quality (ASQ) in the Six Sigma Black Belt Body of Knowledge. This study employed the content analysis technique and hierarchical cluster analysis to analyze the data.

Findings

The results revealed a lack of standardization in the content of Lean Six Sigma (LSS) training in Brazil. 100% of the LSSBB courses analyzed covered four of the 108 techniques recommended by the ASQ Body of Knowledge (i.e. data types, measurement scales, sampling, and data collection plans and methods). In contrast, more than 75% of the courses covered all techniques related to the macro areas of organization-wide planning and deployment, organizational process management and measures, measure, and improve. The major shortcoming of LSS training is related to the macro area Design for Six Sigma framework and methodologies. LSS training is offered in a highly concentrated area in Brazil, the wealthiest region, where universities play a crucial role in disseminating LSS.

Originality/value

The literature lacks studies that critically examine LSS certification courses. There is little research on LSS in Brazil and there are no studies on LSS training in this country.
Are Janus kinase inhibitors safe and effective in treating the key clinical domains of psoriatic arthritis? A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Harkins Patricia , Burke Eoghan , Swales Catherine , Silman Alan , Conway Richard
Published: October 2022

Objectives

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA), is a complex inflammatory arthropathy with a heterogenous spectrum of disease presentation. Despite the vast therapeutic armamentarium, disease control in a considerable proportion of patients is suboptimal. The aim of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of Janus kinase inhibitors (JAKi), in the management of key clinical domains of PsA including peripheral arthritis, psoriasis, enthesitis and dactylitis.

Method

Randomized placebo‐controlled trials (RCTs) of JAKi in PsA were identified by a systematic literature search using EMBASE, PubMed and CENTRAL. All included studies underwent meta‐analysis.

Results

A total of 5 RCTs were included. Patients were randomized to tofacitinib (n = 474), filgotinib (n = 65), upadacitinib (n = 1281) or placebo (n = 937). JAKi treatment was associated with superior efficacy across all primary outcome measures vs placebo: American College of Rheumatology (ACR) 20 (risk ratio [RR] 2.10, [95% CI 1.86–2.37], P < .00001, I2 = 19%); ACR 50 (RR 3.43, [95% CI 2.37–4.96], P < .00001, I2 = 66%); ACR 70 (RR 4.57, [95% CI 1.83–11.44], P = .001, I2 = 82%); Psoriasis Area and Severity Index 75 (RR 2.96, [95% CI 2.44–3.58], P < .00001, I2 = 0%); enthesitis resolution (RR 1.82, [95% CI 1.56–2.12], P < .00001, I2 = 0%); and dactylitis resolution (RR 1.85, [95% CI 1.57–2.16], P < .00001, I2 = 0%). JAKi were associated with an overall increased risk of adverse events (RR 1.14, [95% CI 1.07–1.21], P = .0001, I2 = 0%) with increased risk of infection (RR1.23, [95% CI 1.08–1.39], P = .001, I2 = 0%) vs placebo.

Conclusion

This pooled analysis demonstrates the efficacy of JAKi in treating key clinical domains of PsA. However, they are associated with an increased risk of adverse events, including infection. Further studies are required to corroborate these findings and further elucidate the safety profile.
A scalable health system model to achieve high coverage and quality of Kangaroo mother care in Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: Kumar Aarti , Tiwari Madhuri , Krishna Raghav , Singh Pramod Kumar , Sahu Arti , Singh Vivek , Mishra Aman , Kumar Pankaj , Kumar Alok , Darmstadt Gary L. , Kumar Vishwajeet
Published: October 2022

Aim

To design a health system model for scaling‐up Kangaroo mother care (KMC) and assess its impact on the population‐level coverage and quality of KMC in Uttar Pradesh, India.

Methods

We co‐developed the model with mothers and health system stakeholders using human‐centred design over multiple cycles of implementation, learning and data‐driven refinement. Infants with birthweight <2000 g in the study district were prospectively followed to assess the ‘effective coverage’ of KMC. Effective coverage referred to the proportion of eligible infants receiving ≥8 h of daily skin‐to‐skin contact and exclusive breastfeeding.

Results

High delivery load facilities were equipped with a KMC Lounge to ensure comfort, respectful care of mothers and high‐quality KMC over prolonged periods. Systems to ensure weighing at birth, referral of infants with birthweight <2000 g to KMC facilities, initiation of KMC for all stable low birthweight infants, improving quality of care within KMC facilities and supporting families to continue KMC at home post discharge, were integrated into existing services. KMC was initiated in 93.3% of eligible infants with effective coverage of 52.7% and 64.8% at discharge and 7 days post discharge, respectively.

Conclusion

The model addressed critical barriers to KMC implementation and adoption, contributing to its scale‐up across the state.
Loneliness predicts physical and mental health‐related quality of life over 9 months among patients with coronary heart disease
Authors: Fan Yunge , Ho Moon‐Ho Ringo , Shen Biing‐Jiun
Published: October 2022

This study investigated whether loneliness would predict physical and mental health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) over 9 months and examined whether medical adherence would mediate their associations in patients with coronary heart disease (CHD). The overall design is a three‐wave longitudinal study. A sample of 255 outpatients with CHD was recruited from a community‐based cardiac rehabilitation programme. Participants, with a mean age of 63 years, completed measures assessing loneliness, depression and physical and mental HRQoL at baseline. Medical adherence was assessed at 3 months, and physical and mental HRQoL were reassessed at 9 months. A total of 88% of participants reported moderate or high loneliness. Baseline loneliness predicted physical and mental HRQoL at 9 months after adjusting for baseline physical and mental HRQoL, respectively. The effects remained significant when depression was also adjusted. Medical adherence at 3 months partially mediated the associations of baseline loneliness with 9‐month physical and mental HRQoL. Findings underline the necessity of assessing loneliness for CHD patients to promote long‐term medical adherence and further improve physical and mental HRQoL.
Cyclical shocks and spatial association of Indonesia's district‐level per capita income
Authors: Kataoka Mitsuhiko
Published: October 2022

Our exploratory spatial data analysis covered Indonesia's district‐level per capita incomes for 2004–2018 and found statistical evidence of a weak but monotonically increasing positive spatial association. The spatial income clusters/outliers were scattered nationwide and expanded geographically. Applying the filtering method, we found that regional cyclical shocks significantly influenced spatial association, largely in resource‐rich districts, and identified the locations of persistent spatial association that were immune to shocks. We also specified new development targets, showing the adjacent coexistence of low‐income agrarian clusters with high‐income mining clusters in the undeveloped Papuan provinces. The overall national average is moving toward the narrowing of inter‐district income disparities. However, nearly half of all districts have widened the income disparities with their neighbors; shocks increased income gaps rather than narrowing them.
Do higher‐quality nighttime lights and net primary productivity predict subnational GDP in developing countries? Evidence from the Philippines
Authors: Pagaduan Jesson A.
Published: October 2022

Nighttime lights (NTL) data from satellites are a useful proxy for local economic activity in developing countries where economic data are sparse. Yet most analyses use the flawed DMSP NTL data, a poor proxy for GDP in less densely populated and highly agricultural rural areas. In this article, we augment a novel NTL dataset of the newer and better VIIRS NTL data with more ubiquitous remotely sensed data, namely, net primary productivity (NPP) and land cover, and we test whether these satellite data predict subnational GDP in both urban and rural sectors of the Philippines. The results confirm that the higher‐quality VIIRS NTL data predict urban economic activity sufficiently well for both light‐intense and dimly lit regions but still do not explain rural economic activity very well. The use of croplands NPP as an intensive measure of agricultural productivity, however, dramatically improves the performance of land cover as a proxy. We demonstrate that remotely sensed data can be useful in various applications, including evaluating the long‐run dynamics of province‐level GDP growth, the local impact of natural disasters, and the effects of infrastructure projects at the city and municipal levels. Such applications point toward the need for empirical analysis of growth at finer scales of aggregation.
Rejoinder: A Formal Causal Interpretation of the Case-Crossover Design
Authors: Shahn Zach , Hernán Miguel A. , Robins James M.
Published: October 2022

We thank the discussants for their insightful commentary and questions. In our rejoinder, we extend our analysis to additional settings, control strategies, and sources of bias relevant to how case-crossover is often used in practice, as suggested by multiple discussants. In particular, we consider: control exposures that follow occurrence of events, settings with shared exposure trajectories (which are common in case-crossover studies of effects of air pollution), bias due to non-transient treatment effects, removing bias due to time trends in treatment using control subjects, and extending our results to the continuous time setting. We also take the opportunity to clarify an easily misinterpreted comment we made about collapsibility, which we thank Andersen and Martinussen for highlighting. Throughout, in the spirit of the discussants. contributions, we iterate between general bias formulas and simulations and numerical studies from illustrative simplified scenarios to build insight.
The lasting impact of family and domestic violence on neonatal health outcomes
Authors: Orr Carol , Kelty Erin , Fisher Colleen , O'Donnell Melissa , Glauert Rebecca , Preen David B.
Published: October 2022

Objectives

To compare the health of neonates born to women who experienced family and domestic violence (FDV) 12 months prior to birth, with the health of neonates born to women with an earlier history of FDV and women with no history of FDV.

Methods

A retrospective cohort of women who experienced FDV within 12 months of birth (antenatal FDV [AFDV]) (n = 1230) was identified using data from the Western Australia (WA) Police Force Incident Management System and WA Hospital Morbidity Data Collection. Two comparison cohorts were used, the first including women with a history of FDV (HFDV) 12–60 months prior to birth (n = 1549) and the second with no history of FDV (NFDV) recorded (n = 3690). Hospital, birth, mortality, and congenital anomaly data were used in generalized linear models to examine and compare neonatal health outcomes.

Results

Women in the AFDV group had higher proportions of factors associated with poor neonatal outcomes including smoking (42.4%), substance use (23.0%), and mental health disorders (34.8%). Neonates born to AFDV mothers had significantly higher odds of congenital anomalies (OR: 1.51, 95% CI: 1.18–1.94), low birth weight (1.74, 1.45–2.10), and preterm birth (1.48, 1.22–1.79) compared with neonates born to NFDV mother. Neonatal health outcomes in those born to AFDV women were not significantly different from those born to HFDV women.

Conclusions

Antenatal and historical FDV were associated with poor neonatal health outcomes. Additional pregnancy and social support should be offered to women who have experienced FDV during or prior to pregnancy.
Animal linguistics: a primer
Authors: Berthet Mélissa , Coye Camille , Dezecache Guillaume , Kuhn Jeremy
Published: October 2022

The evolution of language has been investigated by several research communities, including biologists and linguists, striving to highlight similar linguistic capacities across species. To date, however, no consensus exists on the linguistic capacities of non‐human species. Major controversies remain on the use of linguistic terminology, analysis methods and behavioural data collection. The field of ‘animal linguistics’ has emerged to overcome these difficulties and attempt to reach uniform methods and terminology. This primer is a tutorial review of ‘animal linguistics’. It describes the linguistic concepts of semantics, pragmatics and syntax, and proposes minimal criteria to be fulfilled to claim that a given species displays a particular linguistic capacity. Second, it reviews relevant methods successfully applied to the study of communication in animals and proposes a list of useful references to detect and overcome major pitfalls commonly observed in the collection of animal behaviour data. This primer represents a step towards mutual understanding and fruitful collaborations between linguists and biologists.
Ant diversity decreases during the dry season: A meta‐analysis of the effects of seasonality on ant richness and abundance
Authors: Queiroz Antônio C. M. , Marques Tatianne G. , Ribas Carla R. , Cornelissen Tatiana G. , Nogueira Anselmo , Schmidt Fernando A. , Feitosa Rodrigo M. , Sobrinho Tathiana G. , Quinet Yves , Baccaro Fabrício B. , Ulysséa Mônica A. , Vargas André B. , Morini Maria Santina C. , Souza Jorge L. P. , Paolucci Lucas N. , Dáttilo Wesley , Del‐Claro Kleber , Lange Denise , Santos Jean C. , Silva Rogério R. , Campos Renata B. F. , Albuquerque Emília Z. , Izzo Thiago , Rabello Ananza M. , Solar Ricardo R. C. , Soares Stela A. , Carvalho Karine S. , Moraes Aline B. , Torezan‐Silingardi Helena M. , Nahas Larissa , dos Santos Iracenir Andrade , Costa‐Milanez Cinthia B. , Esteves Flávia , Frizzo Tiago , Harada Ana Y. , DaRocha Wesley , Diehl‐Fleig Eduardo
Published: October 2022

Tropical studies traditionally describe insect diversity variation throughout the year. The temporally structured responses of insect assemblages to climate seasonality vary across ecosystems due to gradients of resource availability and limiting ecological factors. These idiosyncratic responses might be particularly true across the vast geographical range of the Brazilian territory, including various environments that harbor one of the most diverse ant faunas worldwide. This study addressed the relationship between ant diversity and climatic seasonality, performing a quantitative review of the published data on ant diversity collected in Brazil. We investigated the seasonality effect on ant abundance and richness described in the literature in 47 papers published between 2000 and 2018. These studies were developed mainly in the Atlantic Forest biome and collected ants with pitfall traps on the soil/litter stratum. We initially carried out a vote‐counting procedure by comparing the number of significant results describing seasonal differences in the ant assemblage. We found that most papers described a similar pattern of ant abundance, richness, and species composition between seasons. However, when we performed a meta‐analysis, we observed a clear pattern of higher ant abundance and richness in the wet/summer season compared with the dry/winter season. Our meta‐analysis reveals that the ant diversity decreases in the dry season, strongly in the Cerrado biome. Additionally, we point out differences in the sampling effort across biomes, indicating the need for further investments in studies focused on temporal diversity patterns, including seasonal effects, on the insect assemblage in biomes less investigated so far.

Abstract in Portuguese is available with online material.
Changes in implant stability using different site preparation techniques: Osseodensification drills versus piezoelectric surgery. A multi‐center prospective randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Stacchi Claudio , Troiano Giuseppe , Montaruli Graziano , Mozzati Marco , Lamazza Luca , Antonelli Alessandro , Giudice Amerigo , Lombardi Teresa
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Implant stability is influenced by bone density, implant design, and site preparation characteristics. Piezoelectric implant site preparation (PISP) has been demonstrated to improve secondary stability compared with conventional drilling techniques. Osseodensification drills (OD) have been recently introduced to enhance both bone density and implant secondary stability. The objective of the present multi‐center prospective randomized controlled trial was to monitor implant stability changes over the first 90 days of healing after implant bed preparation with OD or PISP.

Methods

Each patient received two identical, adjacent or contralateral implants in the posterior maxilla. Following randomization, test sites were prepared with OD and control sites with PISP. Resonance frequency analysis was performed immediately after implant placement and after 7, 14, 21, 28, 60, and 90 days. Implants were then restored with single screw‐retained metal‐ceramic crowns and followed for 12 months after loading.

Results

Twenty‐seven patients (15 males and 12 females; mean age 63.0 ± 11.8 years) were included in final analysis. Each patient received two identical implants in the posterior maxilla (total = 54 implants). After 1 year of loading, 53 implants were satisfactorily in function (one failure in test group 28 days after placement). Mean peak insertion torque (40.7 ± 12.3 Ncm and 39.5 ± 10.2 Ncm in test and control group, respectively) and mean implant stability quotient (ISQ) value at baseline (71.3 ± 6.9 and 69.3 ± 7.6 in test and control group, respectively) showed no significant differences between the two groups. After an initial slight stability decrease, a shift to increasing ISQ values occurred after 14 days in control group and after 21 days in test group, but with no significant differences in ISQ values between the two groups during the first 90 days of healing.

Conclusion

No significant differences in either primary or secondary stability or implant survival rate after 1 year of loading were demonstrated between implants inserted into sites prepared with OD and PISP.
Two‐piece zirconia implants in the posterior mandible and maxilla: A cohort study with a follow‐up period of 9 years
Authors: Brunello Giulia , Rauch Nicole , Becker Kathrin , Hakimi Ahmad R. , Schwarz Frank , Becker Jürgen
Published: October 2022

Objectives

Long‐term follow‐up observations of zirconia implants are rare. This study aimed at evaluating the clinical performance of two‐piece zirconia implants in the posterior jaws over 9 years.

Materials and Methods

Sixty partially edentulous patients were treated with two‐piece zirconia implants. In eight no primary stability could be achieved. Fifty‐two patients received the final restoration (i.e., cemented fibreglass abutments and all‐ceramic crowns). After 2 years, 2 implants failed and 4 dropouts were recorded. The remaining 46 patients with one target implant each were recalled at 9 years. Besides implant survival, clinical parameters at the implant level (plaque index–PI, bleeding on probing–BOP, probing depth–PD, mucosal recession–MR) were recorded and compared with previously collected data. Mechanical and technical complications were assessed.

Results

Thirty patients responded. The mean observation period was of 111.1 ± 2.2 months. One implant was lost. Data recorded from the remaining 29 implants were analysed. PI values increased overtime. Mean BOP and PD remained unchanged during follow‐up. No additional cases of peri‐implantitis were recorded over the 10 diagnosed during the first 2 years of follow‐up. No significant changes in mean MR values were detected over time, with 65% of the all included implants exhibiting no recession at 9 years and all the others, but one, a maximum MR of 1 mm. Three technical and 6 mechanical complications occurred in 7 patients between 2‐ and 9‐years (6.9% and 20.7%, respectively, at patient level).

Conclusion

Within the limitations of the present study, a high survival rate was registered. Albeit frequent mechanical and technical complications, two‐piece zirconia implants could represent a valid solution for the replacement of single teeth in the posterior jaws.