bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Foreign vs domestic remittances and household welfare: evidence from Mexico
Authors: Aguayo-Téllez Ernesto , García-Andrés Adelaido , Martinez Jose N.
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to analyse the differential impact of foreign and domestic remittances on household expenditure shares.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses micro-data from a very large and detailed income-expenditure survey in Mexico and runs consumption-share Engel equations to estimate income (expenditure) elasticities for different consumption goods groups. Trying to account for the standard problems of endogeneity, this paper considers only nuclear households with migrant fathers and compare households that receive remittances from abroad, from within Mexico and those not receiving remittances.

Findings

This study finds that international remittances have a larger impact on the expenditure shares of women’s clothes, insurances and durable goods, while domestic remittances have a larger impact on the share of income dedicated to food, health and education.

Originality/value

Based on the results, differences in consumption shares between families receiving foreign and domestic remittances might depend not only on the relative size of the income transfer but also on the nature of the transfer and the sender’s capacity to monitor in person the use of those remittances. The results indicate that households that receive remittances from abroad present higher shares of consumption of some goods the literature commonly associates with the mothers’ preferences.
Commercialization of academic research: assessing the perception of academicians at a public university in Malaysia
Authors: Suhaimi Nur Syazwani , Abdul Halim Muhammad Abi Sofian , Hashim Hafiza Aishah
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This study examines the perception and attitudes of academicians regarding factors that influence the commercialization of university research.

Design/methodology/approach

The data sample was drawn using a proportionate stratified sampling approach. A self-administered survey was used to obtain data regarding the perception of academicians on the factors that contribute to research commercialization. A total of 131 academicians completed the survey. Multiple regression analysis was used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The results showed that two factors are significant and positively related with commercialization: the academician's behaviour and University-Industry collaboration. Surprisingly, the factors of innovativeness and Intellectual Property management did not have a significant relationship with commercialization.

Research limitations/implications

For future work, researchers should conduct in-depth interviews with the executive management at research universities and at the Ministry of Education Malaysia to complement our quantitative survey. These decision-makers act as funding sources for commercialization and can provide richer evidence regarding important factors affecting commercialization. They can also provide insight on the issues that prevent the commercialization of research from becoming a reality.

Originality/value

Commercialization of Malaysia's university research findings is a critical agenda item in the National Higher Education Strategic Plan. However, in Malaysia, the rate of commercialization of academic research is still unsatisfactory. This study provides important insights regarding intentions behind commercialization by depicting how factors of academic research (i.e. academician's behaviour, innovativeness, Intellectual Properties management, University-Industry collaboration) influence commercialization.
Constraints to participation in the management of cooperative societies: insights for women in Awka community
Authors: Aju Stellamaris Ifunanya , Adeosun Oluyemi Theophilus
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore women’s participation in cooperative societies and the constraints in attaining management positions. Despite the importance of gender equality as a tool for national economic growth gaining prominent attention, women’s access to leadership and decision-making in cooperative societies remains under-researched.

Design/methodology/approach

This study hinges on management and gender theories and systematic literature reviews. This study used a descriptive survey research design for primary data derived from a purposive non-random sampling technique that selected seven (7) active cooperative societies in Awka-South Local Government Area of Anambra State. Structured questionnaires were administered to the selected sample of 129 members. The hypotheses were analyzed using theT-test statistical model.

Findings

This study revealed that social, legal, economic and cultural constraints affected women’s participation in cooperative societies in Awka, Anambra State. Also, that the African-based culture and family traditions, patriarchal societal system, household responsibilities and homemaker roles, religious associations, certain strict cooperative entry requirements, limitation on women’s access to resources and low paid wages and non-participatory training activities constrained the women. Therefore, the authors recommended that cooperatives should institute measures to encourage an increase in women members’ participation at the committee level and build their capacity own economic resources.

Originality/value

This paper focuses on barriers that inhibit women’s participation in cooperative societies with a particular focus on their opportunities and outcomes.
After 10–7: trauma, resilience and satisfaction with life among retired police officers
Authors: Parnaby Patrick , Broll Ryan
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Most research on trauma, resilience and well-being among police officers focusses on those still on active duty. Comparatively speaking, and despite an aging workforce and established negative health outcomes, similar inquiries involving police retirees are not as common. The purpose of this paper is to examine the effects of on- and off-the-job trauma and resilience on satisfaction with life among a sample of retired police officers.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected via a cross-sectional nonprobability electronic survey of police retirees in Ontario, Canada. While controlling for employment-related variables and demographic characteristics, a series of hierarchical multiple regression models were used to examine the effects of on- and off-the-job trauma and resilience on satisfaction with life among a sample of 932 participants.

Findings

The analysis indicates that off-the-job trauma and both personal and social dimensions of resilience contribute uniquely to satisfaction with life among police retirees. Moreover, this full model explains nearly 37% of the variance in satisfaction with life.

Originality/value

This study's findings offer further direction to those working to support the health and well-being of officers currently on the job and those well into their retirement years.
Critical realism and organizational learning
Authors: Brøns Kringelum Louise , Brix Jacob
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the implications of applying critical realism to the study of organizational learning. It considers critical realism as an alternate theoretical science foundation to the domains of empirical realism and social constructivism that characterize most of the field of organizational learning.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts the approach of a philosophical/conceptual discussion.

Findings

This study finds that the critical realist approach makes it possible for organizational learning researchers to apply a prescriptive change agenda. It requires researchers to study the context in which organizational learning occurs. These two features enable the researcher to propose what the world must be like for organizational learning to occur. Hence, a critical realist foundation moves organizational learning theory a step closer to its theoretical sibling, the learning organization.

Originality/value

This study reveals the potential in applying critical realism to the study of organizational learning and identifies its related strengths.
The relationship among financial and non-financial aspects of business sustainability performance: evidence from Iranian panel data
Authors: Salehi Mahdi , Arianpoor Arash
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The study's main objective is to identify business sustainability performance indicators and analyze the mutual relationship between different business sustainability components in Iran.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve research objectives, the 125 indicators of Business Sustainability Performance in Arianpoor and Salehi (2020) were used. For data collection, a questionnaire is designed and developed. Moreover, the Delphi method is used to determine the indicators related to business sustainability performance. Accordingly, we attempted to send the questionnaire to 346 experts and qualified opinion-leaders in the study area to utilize their opinions in our project. Finally, 108 questionnaires were analyzed statistically.

Findings

In this study, the confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), binomial test, one sample t-test, one sample Kolmogorov–Smirnov test and Kruskal–Wallis test are used. The results of statistical tests show that among 125 proposed indicators, 11 indicators were eliminated. Hence, to assess business sustainability performance in the listed firm on the Tehran Stock Exchange, 114 indicators were analyzed. To achieve the study's objective, the relationship between financial and non-financial sustainability performance and their effect is analyzed using the Smart PLS Software. Findings indicate that there is a mutual relationship between financial and non-financial sustainability performance in Iran. There is also a relationship between the operational component and research component and non-financial sustainability performance. In contrast, as for the growth component and non-financial sustainability performance, there is no significant relationship. Also, root means squared error (RMSE) values suggest a reasonable model-data fit.

Originality/value

The type and characteristics of different regions have a significant role in the reporting and differ according to different economic conditions. The discussion of business sustainability and its reporting is important; therefore, essential indicators were identified in this study. In addition, all aspects of sustainability performance are considered cohesively to analyze the mutual relationship between different components of sustainability performance and to be able to make more appropriate decisions in future studies about performance evaluation and reporting using the results of this paper.
Trade unions and corporate social responsibility
Authors: Goerke Laszlo
Published: December 2020

Trade unions distort a profit‐maximizing firm's input choice. The nature of the resulting inefficiency depends on whether there are wage negotiations or there is efficient bargaining. Moreover, trade unions redistribute income and thereby affect welfare. If firms also pursue Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) objectives, input choices may be distorted already in the absence of collective bargaining. Adopting a positive perspective, we show that CSR objectives, which induce a firm to expand production, have ambiguous wage and employment consequences in case of wage negotiations and raise employment if there is efficient bargaining. Importantly from a normative vantage point, such CSR objectives make a welfare‐enhancing role of trade unions more likely in the presence of wage negotiations. The reverse is true in case of efficient bargaining.
Situating presence within extended reality for teacher training: Validation of the extended Reality Presence Scale (XRPS) in preservice teacher use of immersive 360 video
Authors: Gandolfi Enrico , Kosko Karl W. , Ferdig Richard E.
Published: December 2020

The use of video is commonplace for professional preparation in education and other fields. Research has provided evidence that the use of video in these contexts can lead to increased noticing and reflection. However, educators now have access to evolving forms of video such as 360 video. The purpose of this study was to adapt and validate an instrument for assessing immersive 360 video use in an undergraduate preservice teacher university training program. Data provided evidence of the validity of the Extended Reality Presence Scale (XRPS) for 360 video research in preservice teacher professional development. Moreover, evidence from the study suggests that those with higher feelings of presence are less likely to jump around (or twitch) while watching 360 videos. The main implications are that: a) the XRPS is a validated and reliable instrument and b) more research is needed to examine the presence and practices for in‐service and preservice teachers while watching 360 video.

Practitioners notes

What is already known about this topic?

Instructional videos are widely used in preservice teacher training.

360 videos show promise for improving preservice teacher professional development in terms of immersion and presence.

What this paper adds?

An instrument for assessing 360 video teacher presence is presented (XRPS), targeting a current gap in the literature.

Data provided evidence of the validity of the tool for future 360 video research and integration.

Implications for practice and/or policy

Practitioners can use XRPS for assessing preservice teachers’ experiences in immersive environments and evaluating 360 videos.

Higher feelings of presence are associated with more focused viewpoints. Therefore, practitioners should support and facilitate this watching behavior.

Higher scores of presence are associated with a perceived sense of agency and emotional attachment. Therefore, 360 videos should include design elements promoting these feelings.
Regulation of glycolytic genes in human macrophages by oxysterols: a potential role for liver X receptors
Authors: Ménégaut Louise , Jalil Antoine , Pilot Thomas , van Dongen Kevin , Crespy Valentin , Steinmetz Eric , Pais de Barros Jean Paul , Geissler Audrey , Le Goff Wilfried , Venteclef Nicolas , Lagrost Laurent , Gautier Thomas , Thomas Charles , Masson David
Published: December 2020

Background and Purpose

Subset of macrophages within the atheroma plaque displays a high glucose uptake activity. Nevertheless, the molecular mechanisms and the pathophysiological significance of this high glucose need remain unclear. While the role for hypoxia and hypoxia inducible factor 1α has been demonstrated, the contribution of lipid micro‐environment and more specifically oxysterols is yet to be explored.

Experimental Approach

Human macrophages were conditioned in the presence of homogenates from human carotid plaques, and expression of genes involved in glucose metabolism was quantified. Correlative analyses between gene expression and the oxysterol composition of plaques were performed.

Key Results

Conditioning of human macrophages by plaque homogenates induces expression of several genes involved in glucose uptake and glycolysis including glucose transporter 1 (SLC2A1) and hexokinases 2 and 3 (HK2 and HK3). This activation is significantly correlated to the oxysterol content of the plaque samples and is associated with a significant increase in the glycolytic activity of the cells. Pharmacological inverse agonist of the oxysterol receptor liver X receptor (LXR) partially reverses the induction of glycolysis genes without affecting macrophage glycolytic activity. Chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis confirms the implication of LXR in the regulation of SLC2A1 and HK2 genes.

Conclusion and Implications

While our work supports the role of oxysterols and the LXR in the modulation of macrophage metabolism in atheroma plaques, it also highlights some LXR‐independent effects of plaques samples. Finally, this study identifies hexokinase 3 as a promising target in the context of atherosclerosis.

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed issue on Oxysterols, Lifelong Health and Therapeutics. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v178.16/issuetoc
Skin manifestations reported in association with COVID‐19 infection
Authors: Tomsitz Dirk , Biedermann Tilo , Brockow Knut
Published: December 2020

The prevalence of all cutaneous manifestations directly associated with COVID‐19 infection is unknown, but the number of reports is rapidly increasing and provisional knowledge is rapidly evolving. Skin manifestations reported can be classified into (1) manifestations unspecifically indicating possible infectious diseases, i.e. maculopapular exanthem, urticaria and erythema multiforme, and (2) manifestations more specifically indicating COVID‐19 infection, i.e. varicella‐like, livedo reticularis or chilblain‐like eruptions. The latter appear to be associated with thrombovascular events and vascular pathologies.
Prediction of mortality and major cardiovascular complications in type 2 diabetes: External validation of UK Prospective Diabetes Study outcomes model version 2 in two European observational cohorts
Authors: Pagano Eva , Konings Stefan R. A. , Di Cuonzo Daniela , Rosato Rosalba , Bruno Graziella , van der Heijden Amber A. , Beulens Joline , Slieker Roderick , Leal Jose , Feenstra Talitha L.
Published: December 2020

Aim

To externally validate the UK Prospective Diabetes Study Outcomes Model version 2 (UKPDS‐OM2) by comparing the predicted and observed outcomes in two European population‐based cohorts of people with type 2 diabetes.

Materials and methods

We used data from the Casale Monferrato Survey (CMS; n = 1931) and a subgroup of the Hoorn Diabetes Care System (DCS) cohort (n = 5188). The following outcomes were analysed: all‐cause mortality, myocardial infarction (MI), ischaemic heart disease (IHD), stroke, and congestive heart failure (CHF). Model performance was assessed by comparing predictions with observed cumulative incidences in each cohort during follow‐up.

Results

All‐cause mortality was overestimated by the UKPDS‐OM2 in both the cohorts, with a bias of 0.05 in the CMS and 0.12 in the DCS at 10 years of follow‐up. For MI, predictions were consistently higher than observed incidence over the entire follow‐up in both cohorts (10 years bias 0.07 for CMS and 0.10 for DCS). The model performed well for stroke and IHD outcomes in both cohorts. CHF incidence was predicted well for the DCS (5 years bias −0.001), but underestimated for the CMS cohort.

Conclusions

The UKPDS‐OM2 consistently overpredicted the risk of mortality and MI in both cohorts during follow‐up. Period effects may partially explain the differences. Results indicate that transferability is not satisfactory for all outcomes, and new or adjusted risk equations may be needed before applying the model to the Italian or Dutch settings.
Dental trauma and tongue injuries in professional alpine ski racing—A worldwide survey
Authors: Ineichen Jasmin , Connert Thomas , Kühl Sebastian , Filippi Andreas
Published: December 2020

Background/Aim

Skiing is a sport with a medium risk of injuries, and injuries are increasingly common among professional alpine skiers. Examples of other medium‐risk sports are for example handball, basketball, and karate. The aim of this study was to assess the frequency of dental trauma in professional alpine skiing and to determine whether the frequency of dental injuries is associated with a skier's performance level, alpine skiing discipline, and/or years of skiing experience.

Material and methods

A questionnaire consisting of 17 questions was distributed to professional male ski racers to gather information about their skiing discipline (category), performance level, and injuries, particularly dental trauma.

Results

A total of 161 out of 190 skiers returned the survey, with a response rate of 84.2%. Of these, 134 (83.2%) had suffered alpine ski racing‐related injuries during their career and 38 (23.6%) reported skiing‐related dental trauma—most commonly crown fractures (65.8%, n = 25), which mainly involved the maxillary or mandibular incisors (76.0%, n = 28). Ski racers with higher performance levels were more likely to experience dental injuries, but the difference in the frequency of dental trauma between participants in the speed versus technical category was not significant. Likewise, the number of years of ski racing experience did not impact the frequency of dental injuries. The participants rarely wore custom‐made mouthguards (6.8%, n = 11). None of those who reported dental injuries were wearing a custom‐made mouthguard when the injury occured. They preferred to wear chin guards, over‐the‐counter mouthguards, or no mouthguards.

Conclusion

Professional alpine ski racing has a medium risk of dental trauma, which further increases with skier performance level. The participating skiers rarely wore custom‐made mouthguards.
Dissecting the combined effects of air temperature and relative humidity on water‐use efficiency of barley under drought stress
Authors: Zhang Peng , Yang Xin , Chen Yiting , Wei Zhenhua , Liu Fulai
Published: December 2020

As soil water deficit limits crop growth and yield, yet the combined effects of soil drying and elevated vapour pressure deficit (VPD) of the air on crop performance have not been fully understood. The objective of this study was to investigate the interactive effects of soil drying and elevated VPD on growth and physiology of barley seedlings grown under controlled climates. The plants were grown in four separate climate chambers with two air temperature (T, 20 and 30°C) and relative humidity (RH: 60 and 75%) levels, respectively, resulting in four VPD levels, viz. VPD1 (0.59 kPa, 20°C + 75% RH), VPD2 (0.94 kPa, 20°C + 60% RH), VPD3 (1.06 kPa, 30°C + 75% RH) and VPD4 (1.70 kPa, 30°C + 60% RH). Since the 4th leaf stage, the plants were subjected to two irrigation treatments, namely well‐watered and drought‐stressed. The results showed that soil water deficits significantly limited leaf gas exchange rates and reduced shoot dry biomass (DMshoot) and water consumption (WU), whereas increased leaf ABA concentration ([ABA]leaf) and plant water‐use efficiency (WUE) at each VPD level. Plants grown under VPD1 and VPD2 had greater net photosynthetic rate (An) and stomatal conductance (gs) while lower transpiration rate (Tr) than those grown under VPD3 and VPD4 at both irrigation treatments. Besides, elevated VPD resulted in an increased daily transpiration per leaf area (DT) and greater soil water threshold at which DT starts to decrease. Interactions between VPD and drought were significant where the effects of drought on An, relative water content (RWC), DMshoot and WUE were more severe at VPD3 and VPD4 than that at VPD1 and VPD2. When disentangling the effects of T and RH, the results showed that it was T rather than RH influenced the An, stomatal density and RWC, whereas the combined effect of T and RH, that is VPD, was significant in affecting gs, Tr, [ABA]leaf, leaf area, DMshoot, WU and WUE, where WUE was negatively correlated with VPD. Therefore, it is essential to dissect the effects of T and RH when analysing their combined effects with soil water deficits on crop performance in a future warmer and drier climate.
Systematical investigation on energy‐storage behavior of PLZST antiferroelectric ceramics by composition optimizing
Authors: Meng Xiangjun , Zhao Ye , Li Yong , Hao Xihong
Published: December 2020

Featured with high polarization and large electric field‐induced phase transition, PbZrO3‐based antiferroelectric (AFE) materials are regarded as prospective candidates for energy‐storage applications. However, systematical studies on PbZrO3‐based materials are insufficient because of their complex chemical compositions and various phase structures. In this work, (Pb0.94La0.04)(Zr1‐x‐ySnxTiy)O3 (abbreviated as PLZST, 0 ≤ x ≤ 0.5, 0.01 ≤ y ≤ 0.1) AFE system was selected and the energy‐storage behavior was regulated. It is found that low Ti content benefits to obtain satisfactory electric breakdown strength, realizing high energy‐storage density. With Sn content increasing, the electric hysteresis decreases gradually, which is beneficial to improve energy conversion efficiency. As a result, a large recoverable energy‐storage density of 9.6 J/cm3 and a high energy conversion efficiency of 90.2% were achieved in (Pb0.94La0.04)(Zr0.49Sn0.5Ti0.01)O3 ceramic. This work reveals energy‐storage behavior of PLZST AFE materials systematically, providing reference for performance tailoring and new material designing in energy‐storage applications.
The Design Brief as a Creativity Catalyst in Design Education: Priming through Problem Statement
Authors: Kapkın Engin , Joines Sharon
Published: December 2020

The design brief informs particularly the first phases of the design process; however, there are very limited studies on its role and functions. The current study proposes a framework that relates problem statement types in a design brief to creative outcomes by promoting the priming effect, which is a cognitive phenomenon describing the ways individuals behave accordingly to the way they receive a stimulus. The claim is that the brief has the potential to stimulate creativity and influence the type of outcomes by priming the design students using the problem statement. An experiment was conducted in which two groups of design students generated sketches in response to two types of problem statements (in noun and verb formations) in similar design briefs. The problem statements in verb formation were found to lead to a higher number of sketches containing more novel and flexible, yet less realisable ideas. The results support the contention that the design brief and the type of problem statements have the potential to act as a catalyst for creativity early in the design process.
Simultaneous blocking of the pan‐RAF and S100B pathways as a synergistic therapeutic strategy against malignant melanoma
Authors: Wu Ke‐Jia , Ho Shih‐Hsin , Wu Chun , Wang Hui‐Min D. , Ma Dik‐Lung , Leung Chung‐Hang
Published: December 2020

Melanoma is a very aggressive form of skin cancer. Although BRAF inhibitors have been utilized for melanoma therapy, advanced melanoma patients still face a low five‐year survival rate. Recent studies have shown that CRAF can compensate for BRAF depletion via regulating DNA synthesis to remain melanoma proliferation. Hence, targeting CRAF either alone or in combination with other protein pathways is a potential avenue for melanoma therapy. Based on our previously reported CRAF‐selective inhibitor for renal cancer therapy, we have herein discovered an analogue (complex 1) from the reported CRAF library suppresses melanoma cell proliferation and melanoma tumour growth in murine models of melanoma via blocking the S100B and RAF pathways. Intriguingly, we discovered that inhibiting BRAF together with S100B exerts a novel synergistic effect to significantly restore p53 transcription activity and inhibit melanoma cell proliferation, whereas blocking BRAF together with CRAF only had an additive effect. We envision that blocking the pan‐RAF and S100B/p53 pathways might be a novel synergistic strategy for melanoma therapy and that complex 1 is a potential inhibitor against melanoma via blocking the pan‐RAF and S100B pathways.
Populist Radical Right Parties in Europe: What Impact Do they Have on Development Policy?
Authors: Bergmann Julian , Hackenesch Christine , Stockemer Daniel
Published: December 2020

Previous research suggests that the rise of populist radical right parties (PRRPs) is contributing to the politicization of European domestic and external policies. However, whether this is also the case for European development policy is unclear. Building on a new dataset that analyses government positions and coalition agreements across European countries since the 1990s, we investigate whether, and if so how, the strength of PRRPs affects European governments' framing of the relationship between migration and development policy. Research on PRRPs suggests that they influence other parties' positions directly when they are in government, or indirectly by framing topics such as migration differently from other parties, thereby pushing government and opposition parties to modify their own positions. We find (moderate) support for PRRPs' indirect influence on the framing and salience of the migration–development policy nexus, via their vote and seat share. The effect of PRRPs in government on the formulation of development aid policy goals is smaller.
School Shootings and Security Lock‐downs: Myths, Positive School Climates, and Safer Campuses
Authors: Mallett Christopher A.
Published: December 2020

School shooting tragedies and the juvenile justice system’s movement toward a retributive and punitive framework gravely impacted how primary and secondary school students, disproportionately urban districts, used security measures to lock down campuses and build “fortress‐like” schools. This iteration of control on school campuses emerged in tandem with the most recent generation’s zero tolerance approach to student violence and problems; a policy widely regarded as ineffective in urban, suburban, and rural districts. As school shootings continue to impact state legislative action and public reactions to school management, this paper takes a critical approach to school security policies and reviews the evidence on the risk for school violence and how to move away from student control approaches that do not improve school safety. Instead, the incorporation of prosocial education and school engagement efforts finds that school and student safety is improved. These, and related approaches to student body management, decreases campus violence and may also minimize the risk of some school shootings ‐ as rare as these tragic incidents are across the nation’s schools. The interplay of schools, students, and the juvenile and family courts is ongoing. Knowing how school districts can best approach their campus environments, safety, and learning is important for school social workers and court personnel because of how often these systems work, or do not work, together.
The role of impulsivity in neurorehabilitation: A prospective cohort study of a potential cognitive biomarker for fall risk?
Authors: Mateen Bilal A. , Boakye Ndidi , Sonabend Raphael , Russell Noreen , Saverino Alessia
Published: December 2020

Background

Executive dysregulation and impulsivity can both predispose individuals to risk‐prone actions. Although the risk of falls is well established in people with poor executive function, its association to impulsivity is less clear.

Purpose

To describe and assess the prognostic capabilities of the relationship between impulsivity, executive function, functional capability, and falls in the in‐patient neurorehabilitation population.

Materials and Methods

A prospective cohort study in a 26‐bed neurorehabilitation unit in London, recruiting 121 patients, of whom 94 were deemed eligible for inclusion. Cognitive‐behavioural assessment was undertaken using the short (16‐item) version of the Urgency‐Premeditation‐Perseverance‐Sensation Seeking‐Positive Urgency (UPPS) impulsive behaviour scale, and the Trail Making Test (TMT). Patients also underwent a functional assessment at admission and discharge using the UK Functional Independence and Assessment Measure tool (FIM + FAM). The main outcome of interest was falling during an in‐patient episode, which are routinely recorded in a computerized registry of adverse incidents.

Results

Measurements of impulsivity (based on the UPPS‐Short form) and executive function (based on the Trail Making Test) were not found to be significantly associated with functional improvement, or risk of falling. Predictive modelling experiments demonstrated that neither of the aforementioned results were capable of identifying individuals at risk of falling more accurately than an informed guess.

Conclusion

Where impulsivity is present, measurement using structured tools such as the UPPS may be informative to guide individualized rehabilitation programmes; however, its usefulness as the basis of risk prediction models for falls is less likely given the results of this study.
Faecal microbiota transplantation and the patient experience: A systematic review
Authors: Guilfoyle Jessica , Considine Julie , Bouchoucha Stéphane L.
Published: December 2020

Aim

To review and synthesise the literature examining the patients' experience of faecal microbiota transplantation.

Background

Faecal microbiota transplantation is a common treatment for many conditions, including Clostridium Difficile infections. Patients' experience of treatments is an important influence on clinical decision‐making and treatment adherence.

Design

The PRISMA guidelines guided this systematic review. The review was registered with PROSPERO [CRD42020140446].

Method

A search of Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Medline and Embase was conducted for studies published in English and French up to June 2020. Risk of bias was examined using Critical Appraisal Skills Program tools, and quality appraisal was performed independently by three reviewers. Primary outcome of interest was the patient experience of faecal microbiota transplantation. Data were synthesised using a narrative approach.

Results

The search identified 3316 citations, and 12 studies were included. Methodological quality of studies was moderate to low quality. Few studies have accurately explored the patients' experience of faecal microbiota transplantation: most focus on clinical outcomes or hypothetical scenarios regarding the patients' perspectives of faecal microbiota transplantation. Only one study was identified where the sole focus was the patients' experience of faecal microbiota transplantation. Patient's experience of faecal microbiota transplantation was diverse and complex with physiological and psychological components dependent on the patient's medical condition, the administration method and the efficacy.

Conclusion

Patients did not find faecal microbiota transplantation unappealing; however, patients equally reported the procedural experience was unpleasant. Limited results and low quality evidence suggest that further evaluation of the patient experience of faecal microbiota transplantation would be beneficial.

Relevance to clinical practice

Identifying the patients' experience of faecal microbiota transplantation may inform recommendations regarding alternate treatment therapies and enable opportunities to provide quality care for patients that require faecal microbiota transplantation.
End‐of‐life care for children with complex congenital heart disease: Parents' and medical care givers' perceptions
Authors: Agosto Caterina , Benedetti Francesca , De Tommasi Valentina , Milanesi Ornella , Stellin Giovanni , Padalino Massimo A , Benini Franca
Published: December 2020

Aim

In complex congenital heart diseases (CHD), patients may remain affected by significant morbidity and mortality after surgery. We analysed the end‐of‐life (EoL) care in children with severe CHD who died in our institution and investigated perspectives of parents and health‐care professionals (HCPs).

Methods

Medical records of all children (age < 18 years old) affected by a severe CHD who died in a tertiary cardiac care centre were reviewed. Subsequently, a cross‐sectional questionnaire‐based study of parents and HCPs of children involved in the study was designed.

Results

In total, 30 children died (median age: 45 days; range: 15 days to 3.4 years). Of them, 97% (31/32) died in an intensive care unit setting and were intubated and sedated at EoL. A total of 77% (23/30) died without parents being present at bedside. Eighteen families and 10 HCPs were interviewed. For 61% of the parents (11/18) and 70% of the clinicians (7/10), the goal of therapy at the EoL was ‘to lessen your child's suffering as much as possible’. Overall, 44% of parents (8/18) and 50% of HCPs recognised that their child had no chance of survival ‘a few days before the child died’.

Conclusions

We believe that these data suggest an unconscious reluctance to change goals of care in EoL, shifting from intensive care to comfort and quality of life.
Detection of voluntary dehydration in paediatric populations using non‐invasive point‐of‐care saliva and urine testing
Authors: Faidah Nur , Soraya Gita V , Erlichster Michael , Natzir Rosdiana , Chana Gursharan , Skafidas Efstratios , Hardjo Marhaen , Ganda Idham J , Bahar Burhanuddin
Published: December 2020

Aim

Voluntary dehydration, or lack of fluid intake despite water availability, is common in otherwise healthy children, and can lead to adverse effects. Most dehydration biomarkers are impractical for routine assessment in paediatric populations. This study aimed to assess two non‐invasive hydration assessment tools, urine specific gravity (USG) and a novel point‐of‐care (POC) salivary osmolarity (SOSM) sensor, in healthy children.

Methods

Volunteers were tested by colorimetric USG and a handheld SOSM system. Observed values were compared against previous studies to determine hydration status, as was the concordance between parameters.

Results

At the common USG threshold of 1.020, 42.4% of the 139 healthy children were dehydrated. The same prevalence was found using the 70‐mOSM cut‐off value. Comparative analysis of SOSM at varying USG thresholds demonstrated significantly higher SOSM in dehydrated children with a USG ≥ 1.030 (P = 0.002).

Conclusion

At the USG threshold of 1.020 and SOSM threshold of 70 mOSM, 42.4% of healthy children were found to be voluntarily dehydrated. Significantly higher SOSM was observed in dehydrated children (USG ≥ 1.030). As the first study on the utility of POC SOSM measurements for detecting dehydration, these results provide a foundation for future POC characterisation of SOSM in other populations and clinical contexts.
Digital nationalism: Understanding the role of digital media in the rise of ‘new’ nationalism
Authors: Mihelj Sabina , Jiménez‐Martínez César
Published: December 2020

While digital technologies were initially seen as harbingers of globalisation and cosmopolitanism, scholars increasingly acknowledge their role in the rise of nationalism and right‐wing populism. Yet this surge of interest leaves at least two important questions unanswered. Where was nationalism before its apparent resurgence? Are contemporary forms of nationalism different from their predecessors, and can these changes be linked to digital technologies? To answer these questions, we argue for the importance of understanding the less visible ways in which digital technologies reproduce our sense of belonging to a world of nations. We discuss three such mechanisms: the architecture of internet domains, the bias of algorithms and the formation of national digital ecosystems. Next, we examine three characteristics of contemporary nationalism that can be partly linked to recent shifts in the global communication ecology: diversification, fragmentation and commodification. We conclude by considering the implications of our arguments for future research in the field.
Normal acid exposure time in esophageal pH monitoring in Asian and Western populations: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kim Seung Young , Jung Hye‐Kyung , Lee Hye Ah
Published: December 2020

Background

Esophageal acid exposure time (AET) during 24 h pH monitoring is reproducible and predictive outcomes of treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease. Several small Asian studies have investigated the normal range of the AET; the range may be different from that in Western populations. We evaluated its normal range in healthy Asian compared to Western subjects.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and KoreaMed for studies that reported pH monitoring parameters in healthy subjects. Studies that reported the AET values of healthy subjects were eligible for the analyses. The upper limit of normal of the AET was obtained from the 95th percentile of the available raw data or calculated as the mean value +2 standard deviations.

Key Results

Nineteen Asian and 49 Western studies were assessed. The estimated AET values were analyzed using a bootstrapping technique, weighted according to the sample size. The mean AET was 1.1% and 2.9% in the Asian and Western populations, respectively. The upper limit of the reference range was 3.2% (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.7–3.9%) and 8.2 (95% CI, 6.7–9.9) in the Asian and Western populations, respectively. The normal AET differed between the Asian and Western populations because the CI of the two groups did not overlap.

Conclusions & Inferences

The upper limit of normal of the AET in healthy Asian subjects was 3.2% (95% CI, 2.7–3.9%), which was lower than that of healthy Western subjects.
The bitter tastant denatonium benzoate has no influence on the number of transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations in health
Authors: Geysen Hannelore , Geeraerts Annelies , Verbeure Wout , Vanuytsel Tim , Tack Jan , Pauwels Ans
Published: December 2020

Background

Administration of a bitter compound can alter the intragastric pressure (IGP) after a meal. Additionally, a negative correlation between IGP and the number of transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations (TLESRs) has been demonstrated. However, the effect of a bitter tastant on the number of TLESRs and subsequent reflux episodes has never been investigated and it is unclear whether bitter food items should be avoided in gastro‐esophageal reflux disease. We hypothesize that bitter administration in healthy volunteers (HVs) will lead to an increase in the number of TLESRs.

Methods

After an overnight fast, 20 female HVs (36 years [21–63]) underwent a high‐resolution impedance manometry (HRiM) measurement. After placement of the HRiM probe, 0.1 ml/kg of a 10 mM denatonium benzoate solution (bitter) or an identical volume of water (placebo) was administered directly into the stomach. The number of TLESRs and reflux episodes was quantified 30 min before and 2 h after consumption of a high caloric meal.

Key Results

There was no significant difference in the number of TLESRs or reflux episodes between the bitter and placebo condition. Additionally, no differences were observed in the nature (gas or liquid) and extent of reflux events. Lower esophageal sphincter pressures dropped significantly in the first postprandial hour to start recovering slowly back to baseline values during the second postprandial hour (p < 0.0001), without any difference between both conditions.

Conclusions & Interferences

Administration of the bitter tastant denatonium benzoate has no influence on the number of TLESRs or reflux episodes.
Is autogenous iliac crest bone graft a good alternative for rehabilitation in cases of large Odontogenic myxoma? Case Report with a 5‐year follow‐up
Authors: Santana Lucas , Pinto Coelho Rodrigo , de Oliveira Eduardo , Henrique Lima Luciano , Paula Viana Ana , Aguiar Evandro
Published: December 2020

Odontogenic myxoma is a mesenchymal odontogenic tumor that is aggressive and locally invasive. Recurrence rates in jaws are high, mainly by the absence of epithelial coating that allows infiltration in surrounding bone, which makes it difficult for total removal. Consequently, the treatment is rather challenging and rehabilitation options are controversial, requiring a multidisciplinary approach. In most cases, autogenous bone grafts or vascularized flaps are performed as adequate tissue reconstruction and to allow implant placement. Here, we report a case of satisfactory post‐resection of extensive odontogenic myxoma using autogenous iliac crest bone and synthetic grafts, implant placement, and fabrication of implant‐supported prosthesis.
Just or Unjust? How Ideological Beliefs Shape Street‐Level Bureaucrats’ Perceptions of Administrative Burden
Authors: Bell Elizabeth , Ter‐Mkrtchyan Ani , Wehde Wesley , Smith Kylie
Published: December 2020

Existing research finds that increases in administrative burden reduce client access, political efficacy, and equity. However, extant literature has yet to investigate how administrative burden policies are interpreted by street‐level bureaucrats (SLB), whose values and beliefs structure uses of discretion and client experiences of programs. In this article, we utilize quantitative and qualitative data to examine SLB policy preferences regarding administrative burden in Oklahoma's Promise—a means‐tested college access program. Our findings demonstrate that SLB in our sample interpret administrative burden policies through the lens of political ideology. Conservative SLB express significantly more support for administrative burden policies, arguing that these policies prevent fraud and demonstrate client deservingness. In contrast, predominantly liberal SLB justify opposition to administrative burden by arguing that the requirements undermine social equity. Together, our findings reveal that SLB political ideology shapes interpretations of administrative burden and perceptions of client deservingness in Oklahoma's Promise.
Salmon oil supplementation in dogs affects the blood flow of testicular arteries
Authors: Santos Marcelo Carvalho , Milani Chiara , Zucchini Paolo , Quirino Celia Raquel , Romagnoli Stefano , da Cunha Isabel Candia Nunes
Published: December 2020

The administration of fish oils is known to cause changes in several reproductive parameters of domestic animals. The ingestion of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) of the omega‐3 family, such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), has been described and correlated with changes in the semen quality, testosterone levels and male fertility. Nevertheless, few studies monitored and registered effects after ceasing supplementation. In the present study, we monitored the Doppler velocimetric and ultrasonographic parameters of nine dogs' testis for 90 days (D90) checking the effect of salmon oil supplementation, and monitoring continued for 60 days more, after ceasing supplementation (D150). Ultrasonographic evaluations comprised determining the Doppler velocimetric parameters, testicular and epididymal volume, and testicular echotexture. Peak systolic velocity (PSV) as well as final diastolic velocity (EDV) in the supratesticular arteries (STA), and marginal artery (MA) increased during the period of treatment and kept that level up to D150. There was no difference between the fish‐oil supplementation period and the unsupplemented one regarding the testicular and epididymal volume and echogenicity and heterogeneity characteristics. A negative correlation was found between heterogeneity of testis and sperm production (r = −.41, p = .008). Doppler velocimetry indices were affected by the supplementation, leading to an increase in testicular blood flow.