bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Let’s get acquainted: an empirical study on takaful customer-service provider relationships from Saudi Arabian perspectives
Authors: Osman Ismah , Abdur Rehman Mohsin , Mohy Ul Din Sajid , Shams Ghazal , Aziz Khurram
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This study aims to examine a proposed model based on a combination of relationship marketing and service quality dimensions as a significant predictor of corporate image. More importantly, it attempts to identify whether corporate reputation mediates the relationship between and customer loyalty and corporate image in the takāful (Islamic insurance) context, from the viewpoint of Saudi Arabian customers.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey was conducted through an adopted questionnaire from 362 family takāful policyholders from Saudi Arabia. Also, structural equation modelling was used to test the proposed model on the direct relationships of the related constructs, as well as the establishment of corporate reputation as a mediator concerning its relationship between corporate image and customer loyalty.

Findings

This study discovered that only two dimensions of service quality (i.e. reliability and assurance) and three aspects of relationship marketing (i.e. Islamic ethical behaviour, financial and structural bonds) have a significant impact on the corporate image of the takāful providers. This study further concluded that corporate reputation mediates the relationship between corporate image and customer loyalty.

Research limitations/implications

This study has presented and tested the perceived service quality using the PAKSERV model in the takāful (Islamic insurance) industry, particularly in the Saudi Arabian context. This research identified the dimensions of PAKSERV (i.e. reliability and assurance) that influence the corporate image and simultaneously, the aspects of relationship marketing (i.e. Islamic ethical behaviour, financial and structural bonds) are also connected to the corporate image. Corporate reputation acts as a mediator between the relationship of corporate image and customer loyalty. This study, nevertheless, only focused in the takāful industry alone, and these findings could also be tested for its validity to different services in other potential studies because of the diversity of the service industry.

Originality/value

The findings of this study highlight the specific components of PAKSERV measures in influencing the corporate image. Furthermore, relationship marketing addressing Islamic ethical behaviour, as well as the three facets of bonding – structural, financial and social bonds are also incorporated and connected to corporate image. Hence, this study will increase the understanding of the impact of service quality concerning the PAKSERV model and relationship marketing on corporate image, reputation and customer loyalty of the takāful operators in Saudi Arabia.
Hong Kong SFC releases new FAQs on external electronic data storage
Authors: Hayden Rolfe , Fok Helen
Published: July 2021

Purpose

To explain the Securities anld Futures Commission of Hong Kong’s new FAQs on external electronic data storage.

Design/methodology/approach

The article analyses the existing legal and regulatory requirements relating to the keeping of records as well as the circular and FAQs on the use of external electronic data storage. It also discusses the practical implications of the newly added FAQs.

Findings

The SFC has relaxed the requirement as regards the appointment of two Managers-In-Charge in Hong Kong for the purposes of the circular on the use of external electronic data storage. The SFC has offered more flexibility with respect to the undertaking by electronic data storage providers in the FAQs. The FAQs have also provided more certainty with respect to the approval requirements pursuant to section 130 of the SFO where non-Hong Kong affiliates are concerned.

Practical implications

The additional guidance from the SFC regarding external electronic data storage in the form of the new FAQs shows a helpful clarification in the SFC’s approach on the practical implementation of the relevant requirements under the circular on the use of external electronic data storage.

Originality/value

The article offers practical guidance in respect of the implications of the newly added FAQs on the external electronic data storage regime from experienced financial services and asset management lawyers.
Tracking the development of audit committees in Singapore listed companies
Authors: Chu Mui Kim , Ho Yew Kee , Yeap Lay Huay
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This study aims to show how best practices and baseline surveys influence the development of the audit committees (ACs) in Singapore Listed Companies over the period from 2008 to 2019.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a descriptive study of the evolution of the composition and attributes of ACs through data collected from the annual reports of listed companies in Singapore for the period from 2008 to 2019. It analyzes the development of the ACs arising from the best practices in the market and disclosures on ACs over this period.

Findings

The results show positive developments in the composition and attributes of ACs as advocated by best practices in the market which are derived from the Singapore Code of Corporate Governance and various studies on the roles and functions of effective ACs. The study also shows that disclosing the extent of compliance of the ACs to best practices helps them to progress. It clearly shows that progressive ACs are influenced by both best practices in the market and disclosure requirements.

Practical implications

This study is important for regulation and policy promulgation on ACs to support a well-functioning capital market. This paper strongly encourages capital markets to embark on such baseline surveys to allow them to have a better understanding of the state of the ACs of their listed companies.

Originality/value

This is an original descriptive study that provides evidence on the development of ACs over time to converge toward market best practices on ACs. Disclosure of the state of compliance to best practices is a powerful force for progression.
Do short sellers exacerbate volatility?
Authors: Ho Glenn Kit Foong , Treepongkaruna Sirimon , Padungsaksawasdi Chaiyuth
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This paper examines whether short sellers aggravate volatility in the Australian stock market by using five different realized volatility (RV) measures during a more stable period.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors develop a measure to capture the abnormal level of short selling for each stock and examine the bivariate and trivariate dynamic relationships between abnormal short selling and five volatility measures: the RV, continuous and jump components of RV, upside and downside volatilities.

Findings

Overall, the findings indicate a weak association between abnormal short selling and volatility. Where the relationships are significant, the authors generally find that lagged abnormal short selling is negatively associated with both upside and downside volatilities. In general, short selling does not drive or amplify the decline in stock prices.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to existing literature in various aspects. First, the authors offer evidence on the relationship between abnormal short selling and volatility in a general market condition while existing studies often found mixed results of the effects of short selling on volatility around extreme events. Second, the authors add to the literature on the volume-volatility relation by introducing abnormal short selling. Although abnormal short volume does not supplant the number of trades in the volume-volatility relation, it has some incremental, albeit negative, effect on volatility. Finally, the study provides further evidence for the debate on the desirability of short sellers in financial markets.
Stressed assets, off-balance sheet business activities and performance of Indian banking sector: a DEA double bootstrap approach
Authors: Zaman Mohammad Shahid , Bhandari Anup Kumar
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This paper examines the technical efficiency (TE) of Indian commercial banks during 1998–2015.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses mathematical programming-based data envelopment analysis (DEA) methodology to measure technical efficiency of Indian banks. Further, Simar and Wilson (2007) double bootstrap procedure is applied to examine the determinants of efficiency of the Indian banks, by examining the effects of various bank specific and other contextual variables.

Findings

The results indicate substantial upward bias in the conventional efficiency estimates of the Indian commercial banks. Needless to note, such upward bias is consistent with the theoretical postulates. The bootstrapped regression results show that increasing capital adequacy ratio is positively associated with bank efficiency. The popular belief that non-performing assets have a dampening effect on performance of banks is validated. Among others, ownership category is observed to be an important determining factor of bank efficiency. Specifically, state-owned banks (SOBs) are relatively lagging behind the foreign banks. Moreover, larger banks are observed to have a significantly higher level of efficiency, therefore, recent official policy initiatives toward consolidation of SOBs are validated.

Originality/value

As this study uses Simar and Wilson (2007) bootstrap approach, it enables the authors to have an estimate of the extent of bias in the traditional DEA TE scores. It also helps us drawing consistent inferences by rectifying the problem of serial correlation in the conventional second stage regression in this regard.
Health-care information systems adoption – a review of management practices
Authors: Crisan Emil Lucian , Mihaila Alin
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide practitioners and researchers a more condensed and structured perspective on the adoption of information management systems by the health-care industry, given the spread and the increased amount of research concerning the topic.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is a literature review. A Technology (What?) – Context and before adoption Analysis (When and Why?) – Implementation (How?) – Outcomes (What for?) framework is used to present the trends concerning information technology adoption in an accessible manner.

Findings

The main finding is that small or large health-care organizations should no longer focus on information systems’ adoption but should adopt a digital transformation paradigm. By considering this paradigm, management practices related to information technologies’ adoption projects should be complemented by practices related to the continuous organizational changes and readaptation of the organizational strategy, to benefit the advantages information systems can offer.

Practical implications

The main recommendation for health-care industry managers is to adopt specific practices to manage the digital transformation process of their organizations, as they should understand that it is no longer about adopting information technologies, but about managing the associated organizational change.

Originality/value

Instead of focusing on specific information systems’ adoption as other papers do, this paper provides a holistic understanding of the information technologies and management practices which are used in the field.
Internet skills as an influencer for adoption of digital innovations in a technologically emerging nation: India
Authors: Dutta Dorothy , Sarma M.K.
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The advent of technology has enabled frequent innovations in the digital modes of doing business. While some users are reluctant to adopt one, others have made it their way of life. The purpose of this study is to find out the approximate time frame of a digital user in an emerging economy like India to adopt their favorite digital application. The importance of an individual’s level of internet skills is explored in the aspect of adopting digital innovations.

Design/methodology/approach

The study follows a quantitative approach where data collected from both primary and secondary sources are analyzed to arrive at the results. In total, 837 responses collected with the help of a structured questionnaire are entered and analyzed using SPSS. Multinomial logistic regression is the statistical tool used in the research.

Findings

Five sets of adopter categories based on Rogers (1983) are created using an adoption score and are represented in a Time Horizon to understand better. The Unaffected adopter category is used as the reference point to compare the set of internet skills against each of the other five categories. The five sets of categories comprising the internet skills depict interesting results in the case of all the four comparisons made. Social skills are not seen to have any influence on a user being an Innovator or Early Adopter as compared to an Unaffected user. It is also established that Operational and Creative skills play important role in users’ probability of being an innovator, early adopter and early majority compared to being unaffected.

Originality/value

The study analyzes the role of internet skills in the process of adopting digital innovations. The role of internet skill although is associated with every aspect of the digital revolution taking place all over, its application including the direct score of a digital user’s level of internet skills is not found in the literature.
Individualism without full individualization? The compressed life trajectories of the Tibetan graduates of an English training program
Authors: Yi Lin , Gadou Zhuoma
Published: July 2021

Drawing upon fieldwork data collected among a group of Tibetan graduates who attended an internationally linked English training program that dramatically and fundamentally altered their life trajectories, this study argues that these Tibetans acquired individualism prior to individualization practice. Their pathway is in contrast with the tendency found among Korean women “toward individualization without individualism, a region‐wide phenomenon in East Asia’. Different scenarios exactly reveal complicatedness and complexity in compressed modernity of East Asia. However, the study also finds that their exercise of individualization did not turn them into an ontological or radical—that is, egoistic—individualist on account of multiple factors. Toward the end of the article, we also recommend replacing the controversial concept of individualization (individualism) with the notion of individuation—a project of the individual that may be geared toward collective action and shared ideals—to avoid conceptual ambiguity in the future. This individuation project is more likely to contribute to both the integrity and identity of the individual in her search for a legitimate status and a settled life in the wider society, as well as a prosperous society in the future.
The role of obesity on urinary incontinence and anal incontinence in women: a review
Authors: Doumouchtsis SK , Loganathan J , Pergialiotis V
Published: July 2021

Obesity prevalence is increasing worldwide, with significant healthcare implications. We searched PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase and the Cochrane Library for articles registered until June 2020 to explore the relationship between obesity and urinary (UI) and anal incontinence (AI). Obesity is associated with low‐grade, systemic inflammation and proinflammatory cytokine release, producing reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress. This alters collagen metabolism and, in combination with increased intra‐abdominal pressure, contributes to the development of UI. Whereas in AI, stool consistency may be a factor. Weight loss can reduce UI and should be a management focus; however, the effect of weight loss on AI is less clear.
Reading Lewis Cage: The Young Cricketer (1768), by Frances Cotes RA: Cricket, Art and the Rise of Nationalism in England after the Seven Years War
Authors: Cragoe Matthew
Published: July 2021

Recent scholarship has shown how the burst of cultural self‐confidence that followed the Seven Years War fuelled British desire for a national school of art and the foundation of the Royal Academy in 1768. This article re‐reads a portrait exhibited at the academy’s inaugural exhibition by leading London artist Francis Cotes. It argues that the portrait of young Lewis Cage was more than a simple portrait of a favourite son; rather, it was both an essay on the contours of contemporary British identity and a worked example of the potential of portraiture to rival the prestige of continental history painting.
Does organic certification make economic sense for dairy farmers in Europe?–A latent class counterfactual analysis
Authors: Grovermann Christian , Quiédeville Sylvain , Muller Adrian , Leiber Florian , Stolze Matthias , Moakes Simon
Published: July 2021

Certification in agriculture ensures compliance with tangible standards and should generate economic opportunities for farmers. This study quantifies the variable profit and efficiency impacts of organic certification in dairy farming across Europe, using farm‐level FADN data from 25 countries while accounting for heterogeneity through a class splitting model. Four distinct classes with dairy farm enterprises operating under similar production conditions were identified in order to assess gross margin and efficiency differences among certified and non‐certified farms. Depending on the nature of the selection bias, treatment effects were estimated either through an endogenous treatment model or through entropy balancing. The results suggest that organic certification increases gross margins for dairy farm enterprises in Europe, while slightly increasing technical efficiency in two out of four classes. These significant effects of certification on efficiency were estimated at 2% and 7%, respectively. As regards variable profit, effects range from to 66 Euros per cow to 234 euros per cow. In relative terms, this implies gains between 38% and 50% for farms classified into more cool or temperate zones and a gain of up to 182% for the farms assigned to the class that designates warmer climatic conditions.
Effect of Bacillus subtilis C‐3102 supplementation in milk replacer on growth and rumen microbiota in preweaned calves
Authors: Koike Satoshi , Ueno Machiho , Ashida Nobuhisa , Imabayashi Tomokazu , Kobayashi Yasuo
Published: July 2021

We aimed to assess the effect of feeding Bacillus subtilis C‐3102 on the growth and rumen microbiota in the preweaned calves. Twelve newborn Japanese Black calves were randomly allocated to either the control (n = 6) or the treatment (n = 6) groups in the present study. Calves in the treatment group were offered B. subtilis C‐3102 supplemented milk replacer throughout the preweaning period. Rumen fermentation during the first 21 days of life seemed to be slightly suppressed by feeding B. subtilis C‐3102. This fermentation shift was probably attributed to the lower abundance of the core members of rumen microbiota until 21 days of age in the calves fed B. subtilis C‐3102. However, feeding B. subtilis C‐3102 did not influence the abundance of the core members of rumen microbiota at 90 days of age. Distribution of Sharpea spp. and Megasphaera spp., which potentially contribute to low methane production and are regarded as beneficial rumen bacteria, was higher in the rumen of calves fed B. subtilis C‐3102 at 90 days of age. These results suggest that B. subtilis C‐3102 supplementation in milk replacer could potentially contribute to the improvement of feed efficiency after weaning via the establishment of beneficial rumen bacteria.
Optimising alkalinisation and its effect on QRS narrowing in tricyclic antidepressant poisoning
Authors: Pai Kieran , Buckley Nicholas A. , Isoardi Katherine Z. , Isbister Geoffrey K. , Becker Therese , Chiew Angela L. , Cairns Rose , Brown Jared A. , Chan Betty S.
Published: July 2021

Aims

The objectives were to determine the effect of NaHCO3 and/or mechanical ventilation on the biochemical profile and serum alkalinisation in tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) poisoning and investigate the impact of effective alkalinisation therapy on the QRS interval in TCA poisoning.

Methods

This was a retrospective review of TCA poisonings from three Australian toxicology units and a poisons information centre (Jan 2013 to Jan 2019). We included patients with TCA toxicity who ingested>10 mg/kg or had clinically significant toxicities consistent with TCA poisoning, and analysed patients' clinical, electrocardiogram and biochemical data.

Results

Of 210 patients, 84 received NaHCO3 and ventilation (dual therapy), 12 NaHCO3, 46 ventilation and 68 supportive care treatment. When compared with single/supportive groups, patients who received dual therapy had taken a significantly higher median dose of TCA (1.5 g vs1.3 g, P < .001), a longer median maximum QRS interval (124 ms, interquartile ranges [IQR] 108‐138 vs106 ms, IQR 98‐115, P < .001) and were more likely to have seizures (14% vs3%, P = .006) and arrhythmias (17% vs1%, P < .001). The dual therapy group demonstrated greater increases in serum pH (median 0.11, IQR 0.04‐0.17) compared to the single/supportive therapy group (median 0.03, IQR −0.01‐0.09, p < .001). A greater proportion of patients reached the target pH 7.45‐7.55 in the dual therapy group (59%) compared to the single/supportive therapy group (10%) (P < .001). For each 100 mmol bolus of NaHCO3 given, the median increase in serum sodium was 2.5 mmol/L (IQR 1.5‐4.0). QRS narrowing occurred twice as quickly in the dual therapy vs single/supportive therapy group.

Conclusions

A combination of NaHCO3 and mechanical ventilation was most effective in achieving serum alkalinisation and was associated with a more rapid narrowing of the QRS interval. We advise that the maximal dose of NaHCO3 should be <400 mmol (6 mmol/kg).
Impeding corporate social responsibility: Revisiting the role of government in shaping business — Marginalized local community relations
Authors: Delannon Nolywé , Raufflet Emmanuel
Published: July 2021

This paper is based on a case study of the European space industry as it is organized in the postcolonial setting of French Guiana. It brings the state back into political corporate social responsibility (CSR) by showing how government shapes interactions between business and local communities, more specifically around CSR issues. The paper opens new research avenues in political CSR by making two significant contributions. First, it identifies postcolonial contexts as instances in which government, rather than stepping back, gets actively involved to impede the emergence of CSR. This demonstration is made by building on a conceptualization of the marginalized local community as comprising citizens—rather than mere stakeholders—who expect their government to defend their rights vis‐à‐vis business. Second, by using a longitudinal approach that provides access to dynamics of interactions over time, the paper develops a typology of mechanisms that support a government’s changing role in CSR. Over a 50‐year period, such government is shown to have played the roles of impeding the emergence of CSR, partnering for CSR, symbolically mandating CSR, and finally, disengaging from CSR.
Anti‐aquaporin‐4 positive‐to‐negative seroconversion in Latin American patients with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder treated with rituximab
Authors: Zabala‐Ángeles Indhira , García‐Estrada Christian , Gómez‐Figueroa Enrique , Rodriguez‐Rivas Roberto , Higuera‐Gonzalez Edgar , Casallas‐Vanegas Adriana , Aguirre‐Cruz Lucinda , Corona‐Vázquez Teresa , Flores‐Rivera José , Rivas‐Alonso Verónica
Published: July 2021

Objective

Rituximab (RTX) is a monoclonal antibody directed against CD20 epitope expressed on B cells used widely in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOsd). There are few studies evaluating anti‐aquaporin‐4 (AQP4) positive‐to‐negative seroconversion. In this series, we evaluated this phenomenon in a Latin American population.

Methods

A retrospective, longitudinal and analytic study was carried out in 19 AQP4 immunoglobulin G (IgG)+ NMOsd patients. We monitored all patients with a yearly test for AQP4‐IgG serum autoantibodies. Potential relationships between negative seroconversion and annualized relapse rate, Expanded Disability Status Scale score, immunosuppressive or immunoregulatory treatment were assessed.

Results

We included 19 patients, 17 (89.5%) were women. The mean Expanded Disability Status Scale score and annualized relapse rate at clinical onset was 3.8 (±1.97) and 0.81 (±0.577), respectively. Disease‐modifying treatment included RTX, cyclophosphamide, azathioprine and methotrexate. We documented positive‐to‐negative seroconversion in six of the patients in the RTX group (P = 0.047). No significant changes were observed in the annualized relapse rate (2.11 vs 1.88, P = 0.06) or Expanded Disability Status Scale scores (4.41 vs 3.1, P = 0.25) between the group of seroconverted patients from those who remained positive.

Conclusions

Treatment with RTX in patients with seropositive AQP4‐IgG NMOsd can lead to negative conversion, but our findings do not support a clinical reflection from this change. The role of monitoring for AQP4‐IgG is yet to be defined in the Mexican NMOsd population.
Fish assemblage structure in a Neotropical urbanised prairie stream exposed to multiple natural and anthropic factors
Authors: Bertora Andrea , Grosman Fabián , Sanzano Pablo , Rosso Juan J.
Published: July 2021

A myriad of factors affect stream fish assemblages, and most of them are intimately regulated by surrounding land uses. One of the most pernicious impacts on streams is the release of urban effluents. Accordingly, understanding the fish assemblage patterns as well as the environmental drivers that modulate them in the context of urban streams which also are exposed to other land uses is mandatory. We evaluated the longitudinal patterns of fish assemblages in an urbanised Neotropical prairie stream exposed to downstream patches of different surrounding land uses. Several variables of water quality, in‐stream habitat and riparian corridors were measured, and their relationships with fish metrics were explored. A fish metric selection protocol was implemented, and several multivariate analyses were used. Three main patterns of fish response were observed. Assemblage‐level attributes as diversity, richness, biomass, number of families and trophic guilds and proportion of Characiformes and intolerant species were responsive to the natural gradient in habitat (pools) and riparian (riparian width) conditions expected in non‐impacted lotic ecosystems. Conversely, a downstream continuum of recovery in water quality (dissolved oxygen, conductivity, NO3:NH4 and bacteriological loads) and habitat structure (sediment depth) would influence the distribution of fish species regarding their environmental tolerance and habitat preferences. Finally, local habitat aspects (nitrites, submerged macrophytes, bare soil cover and bank incisions by livestock) seemed relevant for the trophic structure (omnivorous species) of fish assemblages. A complex natural and anthropic longitudinal scenario together with local disruptions imposed by surrounding land uses were directive for fish.
Not in education, employment and training status in the early stages of bipolar I disorder with psychotic features
Authors: Cotton Sue M. , Filia Kate M. , Lambert Martin , Berk Michael , Ratheesh Aswin , Schimmelmann Benno G. , Macneil Craig , Hasty Melissa , McGorry Patrick D. , Conus Philippe
Published: July 2021

Objective

There is a lack of existing research regarding young people with bipolar I disorder (BD‐I) and psychotic features, who are not in education, employment, and training (NEET). Thus, the aims of the study were to: (a) establish rates of NEET at service entry to a specialist early intervention service; (b) delineate premorbid and current variables associated with NEET status at service entry and (c) examine correlates of NEET status at discharge.

Method

Medical file audit methodology was utilized to collect information on 118 patients with first episode psychotic mania treated at the Early Psychosis Prevention and Intervention Centre (EPPIC), Melbourne, Australia. NEET status was determined using the modified vocation status index (MVCI). Bivariate and multivariable logistic variables were used to examine relationships between premorbid, service entry and treatment variables, and NEET status at service entry and discharge.

Results

The NEET rate was 33.9% at service entry, and 39.2% at discharge. Variables associated with NEET status at service entry were premorbid functioning and polysubstance use. NEET status at service entry was the only significant correlate of NEET status at discharge. When service entry NEET was taken out of the model, substance use during treatment was predictive of NEET status at discharge.

Conclusions

NEET status at service entry was related to a history of premorbid decline, and risk factors such as substance use and forensic issues. NEET status can decline during treatment, and utility of vocational intervention programs specifically for BD, in addition to specialist early intervention, needs to be examined.
“The Soul of an Assembly”
Authors: Hammes Verena
Published: July 2021

In 2022, the 11th Assembly of the World Council of Churches (WCC) will take place in Karlsruhe, Germany, under the theme “Christ’s love moves the world to reconciliation and unity.” Assembly themes are not simply random slogans, chosen by chance and therefore without significance. They serve as a guideline for the assemblies and as a word spoken to the delegates and to the wider world as an orientation for debate, decisions, and, not least, prayer. Themes are nothing less than the soul of the assembly, carefully chosen and discussed ahead of an assembly, reflected on by delegates, and bringing Christians around the world into closer contact with the message of the assembly and with God by listening to the words of the gospel. This article seeks to place the theme of the Karlsruhe assembly in the context of previous assembly themes, identifying continuities and highlighting differences.
Neoplasia within the equine foot: A retrospective case series of four horses
Authors: Osborne C. , Elce Y. A. , Meehan L. , Davern A. J. , Lescun T. B.
Published: July 2021

Background

Trauma to the foot and distal phalanx are common presenting complaints. In contrast, neoplasia of the distal phalanx or hoof region is rarely reported. Within the foot, keratomas are the most frequently reported neoplasm. The gross and radiographic appearance of keratomas is well documented; however, this is less well established for other neoplasms of the hoof capsule.

Objective

This paper presents four cases which had clinical and radiographic similarities to keratomas; however, key differences were observed. We aimed to highlight the key differences in imaging findings and clinical progression.

Study design

Retrospective multicentre case series.

Methods

Cases identified between 2015 and 2019 with pathological diagnoses of neoplasia within the foot at Purdue University Veterinary teaching hospital and Langford Equine Hospital. Clinical records were examined, and physical examination, imaging, surgical and pathological findings are presented.

Results

The four cases presented had similarities to keratomas; however, key differences were present. Marked lameness was noted in all three cases with aggressive neoplasia, whereas one case was not lame at presentation but still had a diagnosis of a benign neoplasm. Radiographic examination showed significant lucent areas with poor delineation at the margins and suspected invasion into the distal phalanx. For the two melanomas and the squamous cell carcinoma, deterioration was marked and rapid, ultimately leading to euthanasia. The benign neoplasm was managed successfully for 2 years and lost to follow‐up.

Conclusions

Although rare, neoplasms other than keratoma do occur in the foot. Careful interpretation of the imaging findings, consideration of additional imaging such as vascular studies or cross‐sectional imaging, and submission of tissue for biopsy are strongly recommended if there is any suspicion of the lesion being anything other than a keratoma.
Inflammatory bowel diseases in horses: What do we know?
Authors: Vitale V.
Published: July 2021

Chronic inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are a group of gastrointestinal (GI) disorders described in both humans and animals, but unlike in other species, in horses they are poorly defined and there is a lack of standardisation of the method of diagnosis. Although there is an impellent need of consensus on the nomenclature, diagnostic work‐up, diet, treatment and management of horses with a suspected IBD, the aim of this review is to give initial guidelines for practitioners dealing with suspected cases. It provides a summary of the most relevant literature on the topic and presents the current knowledge on the clinical signs, diagnostic work‐up, treatment and prognosis of IBDs in horses.
Paradox of research productivity of higher education institutions in Arab Gulf countries: The case of the UAE
Authors: Karabchuk Tatiana , Shomotova Aizhan , Chmel Kirill
Published: July 2021

This paper investigates the paradox of research productivity of higher‐education institutions in the Arab Gulf Countries. Exploring the case of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) the article fills the gap in the literature on the Gulf higher education research efficiency. Despite the considerable investment into higher education, UAE universities showed rather slow growth in research output. This puzzle was tackled to present possible policy outcomes relevant for research productivity in higher education institutions located in the emerging economies. The study highlights the research productivity indicators dynamics for GCC countries and brings detailed analysis on the research output and input for the UAE universities. We argue that to succeed in academic efficiency the county needs to increase its research investments and diversify research‐boosting policies and practices. The policies should focus on work‐attractive long‐term conditions for the faculty/researchers, home‐based doctoral education system and home‐trained human resources.
Insufficient physical activity and high sedentary behaviour are associated with loneliness in adolescents with overweight/obesity: Evidence from 23 low‐ and middle‐income countries
Authors: Khan Asaduzzaman , Khan Shanchita , Burton Nicola
Published: July 2021

Background/Objectives

Overweight and obesity among young people is a major concern with implications for social wellbeing. We aimed to evaluate the associations of physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviour (SB) with loneliness among adolescents with overweight/obesity.

Methods

Data were used from the Global School‐based Student Health Surveys, collected from 23 low‐and‐middle‐income countries.

Results

Of the 12,133 participants aged 12–17 years with overweight/obesity (48.4% girls), 12% were lonely, with a wide variation across countries ranging from 4% in Laos to 32% in Afghanistan. Overall, 31% had high SB (≥3 hours/day) and 86% were not sufficiently active (<7 days/week of ≥ 60 mins/day). High SB and insufficient PA were positively associated with loneliness (aOR 1.22, 95% CI 1.08–1.38, aOR 1.37, 95% CI 1.18–1.59, respectively).

Conclusions

Future research could examine the direction of these relationships and evaluate strategies to optimise these indicators of social wellbeing among adolescents with overweight/obesity.
Classification model for bid/no‐bid decision in construction projects
Authors: de Araújo Maria Creuza Borges , Alencar Luciana Hazin , de Miranda Mota Caroline Maria
Published: July 2021

For construction companies, the decision about whether to bid for a project is a strategic decision. This paper provides a model for assessing project attractiveness levels and deciding whether to submit a proposal. The model introduces a classification model that incorporates fuzzy preferential information to evaluate project attractiveness under multiple dimensions and enables the decision‐maker to make more effective decisions. Projects are assigned to ordinal categories of attractiveness based on an adapted fuzzy ELECTRE TRI‐C procedure. The main advantages of this model are that the attractiveness level can be used as an input for the bidding strategies, the attractiveness evaluation can support the contractor in prioritizing the projects to bid on, and the model captures the decision process's subjective assessments and situations of imprecision observed on early phases of the project life cycle.
Having less, giving less: The effects of unfavorable social comparisons of affluence on people’s willingness to act for the benefit of others
Authors: Gheorghiu Ana I. , Callan Mitchell J. , Skylark William J.
Published: July 2021

Previous research has found a negative relationship between individual differences in personal relative deprivation (PRD; i.e., resentment stemming from the belief that one is worse off than similar others) and prosociality. Whether PRD causes reductions in people's willingness to act for the benefit of others, however, is yet to be established. Across six studies, we experimentally examined whether experiences of PRD via unfavorable (vs. favorable or lateral) social comparisons of affluence reduced prosociality toward known others and strangers. We found that making hypothetical (Study 1) or real (Study 2) unfavorable social comparisons of affluence in workplace contexts reduced participants’ organizational citizenship behavioral intentions. Furthermore, adverse social comparisons of affluence reduced generosity toward the targets of those comparisons during a Dictator Game (Studies 3 to 6). Across studies, we also measured participants’ subjective and objective socioeconomic status and found, contrary to previous theory and research, no consistent relationship between status and prosociality and no modulation of this relationship by either local or macro‐level inequality. These results suggest that local, specific interpersonal comparisons of affluence play a more dominant role in people's willingness to act for the benefit of a comparison target than do their subjective or objective class rank or the prevailing income inequality of the state in which they reside.
The effect of timing of orthodontic therapy on the outcomes of regenerative periodontal surgery in patients with stage IV periodontitis: A multicenter randomized trial
Authors: Jepsen Karin , Tietmann Christina , Kutschera Eric , Wüllenweber Peter , Jäger Andreas , Cardaropoli Daniele , Gaveglio Lorena , Sanz Sanchez Ignacio , Martin Conchita , Fimmers Rolf , Jepsen Søren
Published: July 2021

Aim

To compare the outcomes after early (4 weeks post surgery) or late (6 months post surgery) orthodontic therapy (OT) following regenerative surgery of intra‐bony defects (IDs).

Materials and methods

In a multi‐center, parallel‐group, randomized clinical trial, 43 patients with stage IV periodontitis were randomized to receive either early (n = 23) or late OT (n = 20) following regenerative surgery of IDs. Primary outcome was change in clinical attachment level (CAL) in one target ID at 12 months after surgery. Secondary outcomes were changes of probing pocket depth (PPD), bleeding on probing (BOP), and frequency of pocket closure.

Results

No statistically significant differences between groups could be observed for CAL gain (5.4 mm [±2.1 mm] for early; 4.5 mm [±1.7 mm] for late OT). PPD was reduced by 4.2 mm (±1.9 mm) in the early group and by 3.9 mm (±1.5 mm) in the late group (p > .05). Pocket closure (PPD ≤ 4 mm) was obtained in 91% of defects in early compared to 85% in late OT.

Conclusion

In the inter‐disciplinary treatment of periodontitis stage IV, OT can be initiated already 4 weeks after regenerative surgery of IDs with favourable results, thus reducing the overall treatment time.
CAPABLE program improves disability in multiple randomized trials
Authors: Szanton Sarah L. , Leff Bruce , Li Qiwei , Breysse Jill , Spoelstra Sandra , Kell Judith , Purvis James , Xue Qian‐Li , Wilson Jonathan , Gitlin Laura N.
Published: July 2021

Background

Programs to reduce disability are crucial to the quality of life for older adults with disabilities. Reducing disability is also important to avert unnecessary and costly hospitalizations, relocation, or nursing home placements. Few programs reduce disability and few have been replicated and scaled beyond initial research settings. CAPABLE is one such program initially tested in a randomized control trial and has now been tested and replicated in multiple settings. CAPABLE, a 10‐session, home‐based interprofessional program, provides an occupational therapist, nurse, and handyworker to address older adults' self‐identified functional goals by enhancing individual capacity and home environmental supports. We examine evidence for the CAPABLE program from clinical trials embedded in different health systems on outcomes that matter most to older adults with disability.

Methods

Six trials with peer‐reviewed publications or reports were identified and included in this review. Participants' outcomes included basic and instrumental activities of daily living (ADLs, IADLs), fall efficacy, depression, pain, and cost savings.

Results

A total of 1144 low‐income, community‐dwelling older adults with disabilities and 4236 matched comparators were included in the six trials. Participants were on average ≥74–79 years old, cognitively intact, and with self‐reported difficulty with ≥1 ADLs. All six studies demonstrated improvements in ADLs and IADLs, with small to strong effect sizes (0.41–1.47). Outcomes for other factors were mixed. Studies implementing the full‐tested dose of CAPABLE showed more improvement in ADLS and cost savings than studies implementing a decreased dose.

Conclusions

The CAPABLE program resulted in substantial improvements in ADLs and IADLs in all six trials with other outcomes varying across studies. A dose lower than the original protocol tested resulted in less benefit. The four studies examining cost showed that CAPABLE saved more than it costs to implement.
Psychological Safety as a Mediator of the Relationship Between Inclusive Leadership and Nurse Voice Behaviors and Error Reporting
Authors: Lee Seung Eun , Dahinten V. Susan
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine psychological safety as a mediator of the relationship between inclusive leadership and nurses’ voice behaviors and error reporting. Voice behaviors were conceptualized as speaking up and withholding voice.

Design

This correlational study used a web‐based survey to obtain data from 526 nurses from the medical/surgical units of three tertiary general hospitals located in two cities in South Korea.

Methods

We used model 4 of Hayes’ PROCESS macro in SPSS to examine whether the effect of inclusive leadership on the three outcome variables was mediated by psychological safety.

Findings

Mediation analysis showed significant direct and indirect effects of nurse managers’ inclusive leadership on each of the three outcome variables through psychological safety after controlling for participant age and unit tenure. Our results also support the conceptualization of employee voice behavior as two distinct concepts: speaking up and withholding voice.

Conclusions

When leader inclusiveness helps nurses to feel psychologically safe, they are less likely to feel silenced, and more likely to speak up freely to contribute ideas and disclose errors for the purpose of improving patient safety.

Clinical Relevance

Leader inclusiveness would be especially beneficial in environments where offering suggestions, raising concerns, asking questions, reporting errors, or disagreeing with those in more senior positions is discouraged or considered culturally inappropriate.
Effect of ketoprofen and tolfenamic acid on intravenous pharmacokinetics of ceftriaxone in sheep
Authors: Cetin Gul , Durna Corum Duygu , Corum Orhan , Atik Orkun , Coskun Devran , Uney Kamil
Published: July 2021

In this study, the pharmacokinetics of ceftriaxone (40 mg/kg) was determined following a single intravenous (IV) administration of ceftriaxone alone and co‐administration with ketoprofen (3 mg/kg) or tolfenamic acid (2 mg/kg) in sheep. Eight healthy Akkaraman sheep (2.4 ± 0.3 years and 44 ± 4 kg of body weight) were used. The study was carried out according to the longitudinal design in three periods with a 15‐day washout period between administrations. In the first period, sheep received ceftriaxone alone via an IV injection. In the second and third periods, the same sheep received ceftriaxone in combination with ketoprofen and tolfenamic acid, respectively. Plasma concentrations of ceftriaxone were assayed by high‐performance liquid chromatography and analyzed using non‐compartmental analysis. Following the administration of ceftriaxone alone, the elimination half‐life (t1/2ʎz), area under the plasma concentration–time curve from zero (0) hours to infinity (∞) (AUC0‐∞), total clearance (ClT), and volume of distribution at steady state were 1.42 h, 182.41 h*µg/ml, 0.22 L/h/kg, and 0.17 L/kg, respectively. While ketoprofen and tolfenamic acid significantly increased the t1/2ʎz and AUC0‐∞ of ceftriaxone, they significantly reduced the ClT. Ceftriaxone (40 mg/kg, IV) in concurrent use with ketoprofen and tolfenamic acid can be administrated at the 12 h dosing intervals to maintain T> minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values above 60% in the treatment of infections caused by susceptible pathogens with the MIC value of ≤0.75 and ≤1 μg/mL, respectively, in sheep with an inflammatory condition.
Evaluating urban micrometeorites as a research resource—A large population collected from a single rooftop
Authors: Suttle M. D. , Hasse T. , Hecht L.
Published: July 2021

We report the recovery and characterization of a new urban micrometeorite collection derived from the rooftop of an industrial building in Germany. We identified 315 micrometeorites (diameter: 55–515 µm, size peak: ˜150 µm, size distribution slope exponent: −2.62). They are predominantly S‐type cosmic spherules (97.2%) but also two G‐type spherules (0.6%), an unmelted coarse‐grained single‐mineral micrometeorite, and eight scoriaceous particles (2.5%) or particles transitional between scoriaceous micrometeorites and porphyritic spherules. Their analysis details how the magnetite rim on partially melted micrometeorites is progressively diluted as the melt fraction increases during heating. At least 10 micrometeorites contain platinum group nuggets (PGNs). They have chondritic compositions but are depleted in volatile Pd. However, a single nugget preserves chondritic Pd concentrations. We suggest that an Fe‐Ni‐S bead originally containing the PGN escaped its host cavity and wet the particle exterior, creating an Fe‐rich melt that protected the nugget from evaporation. This melt layer oxidized forming magnetite—indicating that wetting events can affect the texture and composition of micrometeorites. Utilizing the well‐constrained surface area (8400 m2) and rooftop age (21 yr), we attempted the first global mass flux estimate based on urban micrometeorite data. This produced anomalously low values (13.4 t yr–1), even when correcting for losses due to sample processing (<89.7 t yr–1). Our value is approximately two orders of magnitude lower than previous estimates, indicating that >99% of particles are missing, having been lost via drainage and cleaning. Rooftop collection sites have limited potential for mass flux calculations unless problems of loss can be resolved. However, urban micrometeorite collections have other advantages, notably exceptionally well‐preserved particles with extremely young terrestrial ages and the ability to extract many micrometeorites from accessible sites. Urban micrometeorites should be considered complementary to Antarctic and deep‐sea collections with potential for citizen science and educational exploitation.
Approaching distressing or sensitive topics in medical school
Authors: Gleisner Jenny , Johnson Ericka
Published: July 2021

The authors encourage a continuous attentiveness to thinking and caring about the challenges medical students will encounter during sensitive discussions.