bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ninety-three years of agricultural accounting studies in Scopus journals: a bibliometric analysis from 1923 to 2020
Authors: Umar Ibrahim Mohammed , Mustafa Hasri , Lau Wai Yeng , Sidek Shafie
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Agricultural accounting is gaining ground across different disciplines, rendering it a significant research area. This study aims to assess agricultural accounting research for the past 93 years in terms of publication frequency, subject areas, topics that received the most attention among researchers, as well as the institutions that contribute to this subject area.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs a bibliometric analysis collected through the Scopus database. The sample included 3,612 documents. The analyzed variables include the number of publications per year, documents published, country, author affiliation, keywords and active institutions. Analyses include graphical network maps.

Findings

The findings of this study reveal the importance of supportive institutions, human capabilities and international collaboration in aiding research and development. It provides an overview of agricultural accounting literature over the years and aid researchers in this research domain to explore more studies and develop better arguments. The results also indicate the continuing growth in the number of publications in recent years by authorship; country include the USA, China, the UK, Australia and Germany; institutes include Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wageningen University and Research Centre; and the subject areas include Environmental Science; Agriculture and Biology sciences; and Social Sciences. The most frequent keywords connecting to author’s area of research, as highlighted in Figure 5, include agriculture, accounting, water accounting, environmental accounting and cost analysis.

Research limitations/implications

The study is based on the Scopus database, which has limited coverage. The keywords of the literature search were restricted to “agriculture and accounting” or “agricultural and accounting” and the research approach limited to quantitative perspective.

Practical implications

The findings may benefit policymakers as well as academicians toward understanding the areas of interest in agricultural accounting.

Originality/value

This study provides the potential areas within agricultural accounting literature in a broader scope that deserve multiple accounting practices to cover diverse agricultural activities such as cost accounting, financial reporting, managerial accounting, auditing, taxation and financial information systems. The study suggests developing countries promote innovative research on agricultural practice to meet global scientific and technological developments.
The perception of UNESCO World Heritage Sites' managers about concepts and elements of cultural sustainability in tourism
Authors: de Oliveira Rafael Almeida , Baracho Renata Maria Abrantes , Cantoni Lorenzo
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The research aims to identify the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Site (WHS) managers' perception of cultural sustainability concepts and elements in tourism.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review was carried out to identify the main speeches and characteristic elements of cultural sustainability present in the academic field, and then a quantitative survey was carried out with 60 managers of UNESCO WHSs to evaluate their perception of the theme.

Findings

The results show that managers believe that the concept of cultural sustainability is much more closely linked to the social dimension of sustainability than to the economic and environmental dimensions. Thus, elements such as the preservation of tangible and intangible assets, the participation of society in the management of heritage, the democratization of access, the guarantee of the appreciation of culture and its preservation for future generations are basic elements for cultural sustainability. Finally, although they believe that understanding the concept of cultural sustainability is fundamental to their activities, they still lack knowledge of how to measure cultural sustainability in their spaces.

Originality/value

Although the theme of sustainability has several published studies, most of the work focuses only on studies of its social, economic and environmental dimensions. The debates on the role of culture in sustainability are still incipient, and understanding the managers' perception of the topic enables the creation of more effective strategies that guarantee cultural sustainability in heritage by tourism.
Reasons for entering into Ghanaian public-private partnership (PPP) power projects
Authors: Kukah Augustine Senanu Komla , Owusu-Manu De-Graft , Badu Edward , Edwards David John
Published: March 2022

Purpose

In comparison to other countries, power generation in Sub-Saharan Africa is poor. The demand for power has surged in recent times and continues to increase at a fast rate. The public–private partnership (PPP) model has been identified as an option to address the challenges in the power sector. The purpose of this research paper is to critically explore the reasons for entering into PPP power projects in Ghana by the public and private parties.

Design/methodology/approach

Questionnaires were used to elicit responses from respondents using a two-round Delphi survey. From 60 respondents contacted in round one, 48 responses were obtained, and these 48 respondents further took part in round two. Mean score ranking was used to rank the reasons for entering into PPP power projects, while analysis of variance (ANOVA) was run to test significant difference in perceptions among the respondents.

Findings

From round 2 of the Delphi survey, the significant reasons for public sector entering into PPP power projects were as follows: achieving improved value for money, access to additional capital, increased certainty of projects and greater efficiency of project delivery services. For private sector, most significant reasons were as follows: obtaining of investment support, improvement in private sector’s international image and synergy with public sector. From ANOVA analysis, there were significant different perceptions among some of factors on the respondent profile variables and the reasons for entering into PPP power projects, while other factors did not have significant different perception.

Originality/value

Significant reasons for both public and private sectors identified would be incorporated by the government when PPP policy guidelines and laws are reviewed. This will aid in the effective implementation of PPP for power projects.
International implications of corruption in Eastern European prosecution offices: a field report
Authors: Teichmann Fabian Maximilian Johannes , Wittmann Chiara
Published: March 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the effect of corruption in the Eastern European legal system as it implicates German-speaking jurisdictions in cases of international cooperation, especially pertaining to white-collar crimes and mutual legal assistance. This field report considers how during the course of the career of a prosecutor, corruption comes into play and creates a culture which prevents the execution of justice in the native country and in collaboration with the European Union. The invocation of compulsory measures in criminal case proceedings is examined carefully.

Design/methodology/approach

The first author is an internationally active lawyer and provides an insight referring to the personal experience of Eastern European prosecutors and the wider impression he has gained of the system in which they operate. This is enforced by his teaching at the International Anti-Corruption Academy in Vienna, where he trains public prosecutors from Eastern Europe and through this collaboration, learns of their experience in the system. The impressions gained from real life are supported by an extensive understanding of the literature, often showing that a key problem is the lack of open discussion on the matter.

Findings

German-speaking countries cannot make international proceedings dependent on the findings from Eastern European prosecutor offices. Although there are highly qualified prosecutors at work, there is a systemic corruption evident which threatens the reliability of investigative results. Corruption is evident from the inception of a prosecutor’s career to the most senior positions, showing that bribes account for an adverse selection of prosecutors.

Originality/value

This is a report based on first-hand sources. It elucidates the existing literature with testimony of the current culture and its tangible influence. The implications for international proceedings are paralleled with the history of possible corruption in a prosecutor’s career, the juxtaposition of which depicts a striking reality. Above all, the cyclical nature of corruption in the legal system is highlighted.
Discourses of middle managers' cross-boundary collaboration in health and social care
Authors: Hujala Anneli , Taskinen Helena , Laulainen Sanna , Klinga Charlotte , Schruijer Sandra
Published: March 2022

Purpose

In the implementation of integrated care, the role of managers is important and their mutual collaboration should be addressed more visibly. The purpose of this study was to investigate how cross-boundary collaboration is constructed in the discourse of middle-level managers in health and social care.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was based on a discursive approach. Group discussions with three groups of Finnish middle managers (n = 39) were analyzed using discourse analysis.

Findings

Five ways of talking about cross-boundary collaboration were identified, labeled “ideal”, “structure”, “defence”, “money” and “support” discourses. In the ideal discourse, cross-boundary collaboration appeared as a “good thing” and is self-evident. Structural discourse defined managers as passive actors in self-sustaining entities. Defensive discourse highlighted the problems of cross-boundary collaboration and the hierarchy within the health and social sectors. Financial discourse constituted the ultimate obstacle to successful cross-boundary collaboration, and both strengthened and explained defensive discourse. Supportive discourse portrayed other managers as partners and as an important resource.

Research limitations/implications

Cross-boundary collaboration can be experienced as a resource, helping managers cope with their workload. However, identification of and continuous attention to challenges at macro, meso and micro levels of integrated care is crucial for successful collaboration. Thus, critical discussion of collaboration needs to be given space.

Originality/value

The study design and discursive approach highlights the power of language and give voice to middle managers who are key actors when implementing integrated care.
The effect of cognitive–behavioral intervention on hope and death anxiety level in patients undergoing hemodialysis
Authors: Saki Mandana , Khoshnood Sabah , Mohammadipour Fatemeh , Ebrahimzadeh Farzad , Rezaei Fatemeh
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Hope and death anxiety as the important sources of adjustment can affect the attitude, health status and quality of life in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Hopelessness and death anxiety are considered as the important factors in patients undergoing hemodialysis, because these can avoid non-adherence and increase mortality rate. This study aims to investigate the effect of the cognitive–behavioral intervention on hope and death anxiety in patients undergoing hemodialysis.

Design/methodology/approach

In this randomized controlled clinical trial, 84 patients undergoing hemodialysis were included, who were then divided into two groups as the cognitive–behavioral intervention group (n = 42) and the control group (n = 42). The experimental group received eight sessions of individual chair-side cognitive–behavioral intervention. To measure the hope level and death anxiety, Hearth Hope Scale and Templer’s Death Anxiety Scale were used as tools once at the beginning and once at the end of the study.

Findings

The mean scores of the hope levels in the intervention group significantly improved compared to the control group. Furthermore, the mean scores of the death anxiety levels significantly decreased in the intervention group compared to the control group.

Originality/value

Cognitive–behavioral interventions are significantly effective on promoting the level of hope and decreasing the level of death anxiety in patients undergoing hemodialysis. Therefore, applying this psychological intervention to design the individual education programs is recommended.
How leaders benefit from engaging in high-quality leader-member exchanges: a daily diary study
Authors: Richter-Killenberg Stefanie , Volmer Judith
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Drawing from the conservation of resources theory and the success resource model of job stress, the authors investigated the role of leader behaviours in the context of leader-member exchanges (LMXs) as a driver of leaders' job-related well-being and recovery. Specifically, they hypothesised positive affect and perceived competence as potential mechanisms enhancing leaders' job satisfaction and psychological detachment.

Design/methodology/approach

Daily diary data were collected from 85 leaders over five consecutive working days (376 daily observations) and analysed using multilevel path analyses.

Findings

Leader LMX behaviours were positively associated with leaders' positive affect and perceived competence at work at the person and day levels. Additionally, results provided support for most of the assumed indirect effects of leader LMX behaviours on leaders' job satisfaction and psychological detachment via positive affect and perceived competence.

Practical implications

Leadership development activities should raise leaders' awareness of the relevance of resourceful interactions with followers for leaders' own well-being. Organisations should create a working environment that facilitates high-quality exchanges amongst their members. The current trend towards increasing digital and less face-to-face collaboration may pose a risk to this important resource source for leaders.

Originality/value

These findings emphasise the day-to-day variation in leadership behaviours and that leaders' engagement in high-quality leader-follower interactions has the potential to stimulate a resource-building process for the benefit of leaders themselves.
The multidimensional work motivation scale: psychometric studies in Portugal and Brazil
Authors: Dos Santos Nuno Rebelo , Mónico Lisete , Pais Leonor , Gagné Marylène , Forest Jacques , Cabral Patrícia Martins Fagundes , Ferraro Tânia
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to present validation evidence of a Portuguese version of the Multidimensional Work Motivation Scale, an instrument within the framework of the Self-Determination Theory, suitable for both Brazil and Portugal.

Design/methodology/approach

The current study demonstrates the suitability of this version in both Portugal (N = 999) and Brazil (N = 720). The authors applied confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) and tested the invariance between samples.

Findings

Results from CFA found the same structural dimensions as in the original study, invariant across both samples. Convergent and discriminant validity were shown through correlations between motivation subscales with affective commitment and emotional exhaustion.

Originality/value

Overall, the data provided strong evidence for the reliability and validity of the Portuguese version of the scale and reinforces the instrument as a cross-culturally valid measure of work motivation.
Constructing segmented rental housing indices: evidence from Beijing, China
Authors: Song Zisheng , Wilhelmsson Mats , Yang Zan
Published: March 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to construct rental housing indices and identify market segmentation for more effective property-management strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

The hedonic model was employed to construct the rental indices. Using thek-means++ and REDCAP (Regionalisation with Dynamically Constrained Agglomerative Clustering and Partitioning) approaches, the authors conducted clustering analysis and identified different market segmentation. The empirical study relied on the database of 80,212 actual rental transactions in Beijing, China, spanning 2016–2018.

Findings

Rental housing market segmentation may distribute across administrative boundaries. Properly segmented indices could provide a better account for the heterogeneity and spatial continuity of rental housing and as well be crucial for effective property management.

Research limitations/implications

Residential rent might not only vary over space but also interplays with housing price. It would be worth studying how the rental market functions together with the owner-occupied sector in the future.

Practical implications

Residential rental indices are of great importance for policymakers to be able to evaluate housing policies and for property managers to implement competitive strategies in the rental market. Their constructions largely depend on the analysis of market segmentation, a trade-off between housing spatial heterogeneity and continuity.

Originality/value

This paper fills the gap in knowledge concerning segmented rental indices construction, particularly in China. The spatial constrained clustering approach (REDCAP) was also initially introduced to identify regionalised market segmentation due to its superior performance.
Computational design strategy to improve RF heating uniformity
Authors: Allison Jared , Pearce John , Beaman Joseph , Seepersad Carolyn
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Recent work has demonstrated the possibility of selectively sintering polymer powders with radio frequency (RF) radiation as a means of rapid, volumetric additive manufacturing. Although RF radiation can be used as a volumetric energy source, non-uniform heating resulting from the sample geometry and electrode configuration can lead to adverse effects in RF-treated samples. This paper aims to address these heating uniformity issues by implementing a computational design strategy for doped polymer powder beds to improve the RF heating uniformity.

Design/methodology/approach

Two approaches for improving the RF heating uniformity are presented with the goal of developing an RF-assisted additive manufacturing process. Both techniques use COMSOL Multiphysics® to predict the temperature rise during simulated RF exposure for different geometries. The effectiveness of each approach is evaluated by calculating the uniformity index, which provides an objective metric for comparing the heating uniformity between simulations. The first method implements an iterative heuristic tuning strategy to functionally grade the electrical conductivity within the sample. The second method involves reorienting the electrodes during the heating stage such that the electric field is applied in two directions.

Findings

Both approaches are shown to improve the heating uniformity and predicted part geometry for several test cases when applied independently. However, the greatest improvement in heating uniformity is demonstrated by combining the approaches and using multiple electrode orientations while functionally grading the samples.

Originality/value

This work presents an innovative approach for overcoming RF heating uniformity issues to improve the resulting part geometry in an RF-assisted, volumetric additive manufacturing method.
Traditional dance “Molong Kopi” for maintaining of health status among older adults in long-term care of Indonesia
Authors: Nur Kholid Rosyidi Muhammad , Susanto Tantut , Yunanto Rismawan Adi , Susumaningrum Latifa Aini , Rasni Hanny
Published: March 2022

Purpose

This study examined the influence of traditional dance “Molong Kopi” for maintaining health status of older adult (OA) in long-term care of Indonesia.

Design/methodology/approach

A randomized control trial study conducted 21 of OA intervention group and 20 of OA control group. Molong Kopi dance intervention was carried out for eight weeks. Health status was measured on blood pressure, risk for fall, balance and quality of sleep of OA.

Findings

There was a significant differences between the intervention group and the control group on systole blood pressure, fall risk and sleep quality (p < 0.05). The number of OA who were not at risk for fall after the intervention were increased from 14 to 38%. The quality of sleep of OA was also changed to good sleep quality from 43 to 90%.

Originality/value

Molong Kopi dance in OA can reduce systolic blood pressure, reduce the risk of falls and improve sleep quality better.
Paediatric trauma imaging in a regional Queensland hospital: Do we need clearer guidance?
Authors: Lynham Rohan , Boxall Sarah , Warren Jacelle , Lynham Anthony
Published: March 2022

Objective

Paediatric trauma is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in those aged 0–14. Anatomical and physiological differences require a specialised approach to paediatric trauma care. Medical imaging, particularly computed tomography (CT) scans, requires specific consideration because of the consequences of radiation exposure in the paediatric population. The present study compares current practice of CT scan ordering in paediatric trauma patients at a regional Australian hospital against consensus guidelines published in the UK.

Methods

A retrospective audit of paediatric trauma CT scans referred from the ED from May 2017 to May 2018 was completed. Details relating to CT scan ordering were reviewed and compliance with the Royal College of Radiologists Paediatric trauma protocols, was determined. Descriptive statistics and χ2 tests comparing those that met and did not meet guidelines were performed.

Results

A total of 71 CT scans were included with an overall compliance rate of 56.3%. Specific regional compliance was lowest with CT neck at 14%. Patients where a trauma call was initiated were more likely to receive a full body (pan) scan rather than region specific imaging. Compliance improved when paediatric team involvement was documented.

Conclusions

Evidence‐based guidelines for CT imaging in paediatric trauma are essential to reduce unnecessary radiation exposure for children. The present study has demonstrated that current practice has the potential to be improved and that decisions should involve a multidisciplinary team.
Pretrial risk assessment instruments in practice: The role of judicial discretion in pretrial reform
Authors: Copp Jennifer E. , Casey William , Blomberg Thomas G. , Pesta George
Published: March 2022

Research Summary

We explored the extent to which the implementation of a pretrial risk assessment instrument (PRAI) corresponded to changes in the pretrial processing of defendants using multiple administrative data sources from a large county in the southeastern United States. Our findings revealed little evidence of reductions in detention lengths or increases in the use of nonfinancial forms of release following the tool's adoption. This was largely attributable to the exercise of judicial discretion, as judges frequently departed from the tool's recommendation using alternatives that were more punitive and often included financial conditions—particularly for Black and Latino defendants. Furthermore, the exercise of discretion was linked to increased rates of pretrial failure.

Policy Implications

PRAIs were adopted on a massive scale with the understanding that they are evidence‐based and geared toward efficiently and equitably reducing pretrial populations; however, we are lacking the evaluative work to determine their impacts. Our findings suggest that PRAIs may not only undermine reform efforts, but may worsen disparities, if communities fail to complete the up‐front work of discussing their expectations for pretrial decision making, including the conditions under which financial constraints may be justifiable.
Unwarranted variation in radiation therapy fractionation
Authors: Batumalai Vikneswary , James Melissa
Published: March 2022

The adoption of hypofractionation across multiple tumour sites has been slow despite robust evidence. There is considerable unwarranted variation in practice, both within and between jurisdictions. This has been attributed to inconsistencies in guidelines, physician preference, lack of technology and differing financial incentives. Unwarranted variation in the use of hypofractionation has a tremendous effect on cost to both patients and the healthcare system. This places an unnecessary burden on patients and poorly utilises scarce healthcare resources. A collaborative effort from clinicians, patients, healthcare providers and policymakers is needed to reduce unwarranted variation in practice. This will improve quality of care both for patients and at broader healthcare system level.
Effect of nighttime bedroom light exposure on mood episode relapses in bipolar disorder
Authors: Esaki Yuichi , Obayashi Kenji , Saeki Keigo , Fujita Kiyoshi , Iwata Nakao , Kitajima Tsuyoshi
Published: March 2022

Objective

A previous cross‐sectional study reported that nighttime light is associated with increased occurrence of manic symptoms in bipolar disorder; however, the longitudinal association between nighttime light and subsequent mood episode relapses remains unclear. We determined whether bedroom nighttime light was associated with mood episode relapses in patients with bipolar disorder.

Methods

This prospective cohort study included 172 outpatients with bipolar disorder who participated in an Association between the Pathology of Bipolar Disorder and Light Exposure in Daily Life (APPLE) cohort study. A portable photometer was used to measure illuminance in the bedroom from bedtime to rising time during 7 consecutive nights for baseline assessment. Then, the participants were assessed at a 2‐year follow‐up for mood episode relapses.

Results

Of the 172 participants, 157 (91%) completed the 2‐year follow‐up, and 39 (22%) experienced manic or hypomanic episodes (with or without mixed features), during that time. In the Cox proportional‐hazards model, the hazard ratio (HR) for manic/hypomanic episode relapses was significantly higher when the average nighttime illuminance was ≥3 lux (n = 71) than when it was <3 lux (n = 101; HR, 2.54; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.33–4.84). In the multivariable model adjusted for a propensity score in relation to nighttime light, the relationship remained significant (HR, 2.17; 95% CI, 1.04–4.52). The association between nighttime light and depressive episode relapses was not significantly different.

Conclusions

Keeping the bedroom dark at night may prevent hypomanic and manic episodes.
Former street‐working boys in Iraq highlight the importance of receiving education, training and support from families and other adults
Authors: Taib Nezar Ismet , Öster Caisa , Ramklint Mia
Published: March 2022

Aim

This study investigated the perceptions of men who worked on the streets of Iraq when they were children. It looked at the risks they faced, how they developed resilience and what support they feel current working children need.

Methods

In 2021, semi‐structured interviews were held with 40 men aged 24–33 who used to work on the streets as children. They had attended the Zewa Centre, a drop‐in centre for street‐working children in 2004–2005. Thematic analysis was used to explore the transcribed interviews.

Results

Positive feedback focused on how they developed working and social skills and felt proud to support their families. Negative feedback included the consequences on their social lives and mental and physical health. Their suggestions for preventing street work in children were financial support, so that families could send their children back to school, and programmes that offer social skills training and vocational training. Social support from families, other adults and peers was very important.

Conclusion

Working on the streets had positive and negative consequences and support from family and friends influenced the men's attitudes in adulthood. They suggested that financial support, education and social and vocational training would be very important for today's street‐working children.
Identification and protection of puce unlined clothing with printed gold and colour‐painted lace
Authors: Zheng Hailing , Yang Hailiang , Zhou Yang , Shujuan Wang
Published: March 2022

A large number of Southern Song dynasty costumes were unearthed from Huangsheng tomb in Fuzhou city, Fujian province. The unlined clothing was among the funeral objects, and made of the most common leno fabric, which was light and transparent, and the clothing was in extremely poor condition. To protect the unlined clothing, scientific evaluation and protection were carried out. Three‐dimensional microscopy was used to analyse the weave structure and X‐ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF) and indirect enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA) were used to analyse scientifically the printed gold and colour paint components of the unlined clothing. The results showed that the structure of the unlined clothing was a two‐warp twisted leno, the printed gold contained Au, Cu, Fe and other elements, the coloured paint contained Pb and Hg elements, and the binding material component of the coloured paint was type I collagen. Based on the results of the analysis, the silk fibroin consolidation method was used to improve resistance to the stress and strain caused by the needle–thread repair method, and the needle–thread repair method was then used to restore the original clothing shape. This study provides a new approach for the protection of fragile silk fabrics in the future.
The prevalence and significance of nonuniform thyroid radio‐isotope uptake in patients with Graves’ disease
Authors: Abdalaziz Altayeb , Vanka Ramesh , Bartholomew Peter , Vennart Nicholas , Vernazza Jonathan , Stewart Kathryn , Tsatlidis Vasileios , Narayanan Kilimangalam , Weaver Jolanta U , Razvi Salman
Published: March 2022

Objective

To evaluate the prevalence and clinical significance of nonuniform technetium (99mTc) uptake among patients with Graves’ disease (GD).

Design, Patients and Measurements

Patients with GD, referred between July 2005 and March 2018, had Tc99‐ uptake scans and TSH‐receptor antibody (TRAb) measured before antithyroid drug (ATD) therapy. Risk of relapse after ATD cessation was monitored until June 2021 and compared between GD patients based on uptake patterns.

Results

Of the 276 GD patients (mean age, 49.8 years; 84% female), 25 (9.0%) had nonuniform Tc99 uptake. At diagnosis, individuals with nonuniform uptake were older (mean age of 61.8 vs. 48.5 years, p < .001), had lower mean thyroid hormone levels (free thyroxine: 36.3 vs. 45.4  pmol/L, p = .04 and free triiodothyronine: 10.0 vs. 17.8 pmol/L, p < .001) and median TRAb levels (4.2 vs. 6.6 U/L, p = .04) compared with those with a uniform uptake. Older age was a significant predictor for the presence of nonuniform uptake in GD patients; odds ratio (95% confidence intervals) of 1.07 (1.03 – 1.10). The risk of relapse was similar in both groups after a median (IQR) follow‐up of 41 (13–74) months after ATD cessation (56.0% vs. 46.3%, respectively); hazard ratio (95% confidence intervals) of 1.74 (0.96–3.15).

Conclusions

Nonuniform radio‐isotope uptake is seen in 1 in 11 patients with GD which could be misdiagnosed as toxic multinodular goitre if TRAb levels are not measured. Treatment of GD patients with nonuniform radio‐isotope uptake with ATD therapy as first‐line appears to be equally effective as compared with those with uniform uptake. TRAb testing should be the main diagnostic test for patients with suspected GD with radio‐labelled uptake scans being reserved for those who are TRAb negative.
Child ADHD and anxiety: Parent mental health literacy and information preferences
Authors: Davidson Dylan , Reynolds Kristin , Theule Jennifer , Feldgaier Steven
Published: March 2022

This research explored parents' mental health literacy (MHL) skills (i.e., recognizing symptoms and identifying effective help‐seeking strategies) for child attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and anxiety, factors associated with their MHL, and preferences for receiving information about each disorder. N = 128 parents were recruited from community organizations to participate in an online survey. Parents were randomly assigned to read one vignette depicting a child with symptoms of ADHD or anxiety. They were asked to identify the depicted problem and rate the helpfulness of potential help‐seeking strategies (i.e., different health professionals and medications). They also completed measures of parental self‐efficacy and parenting stress and indicated information preferences for learning about symptoms and treatment. Parents scored just above the mid‐range on a measure of their MHL skills, with no significant difference between parents responding to the ADHD and anxiety vignettes. Stronger MHL was associated with being a mother, having personal, family, or friend‐related mental health experience, and stronger parental self‐efficacy. Parents were interested in receiving more information about child ADHD and anxiety via health provider or written format. Results are valuable for informing future MHL intervention efforts to educate parents about symptoms and treatment for common child mental health problems such as ADHD and anxiety.
Potential nanotherapeutic strategies for perioperative stroke
Authors: An Jingyi , Zhao Ling , Duan Ranran , Sun Ke , Lu Wenxin , Yang Jiali , Liang Yan , Liu Junjie , Zhang Zhenzhong , Li Li , Shi Jinjin
Published: March 2022

Aims

Based on the complex pathological environment of perioperative stroke, the development of targeted therapeutic strategies is important to control the development of perioperative stroke.

Discussions

Recently, great progress has been made in nanotechnology, and nanodrug delivery systems have been developed for the treatment of ischemic stroke.

Conclusion

In this review, the pathological processes and mechanisms of ischemic stroke during perioperative stroke onset were systematically sorted. As a potential treatment strategy for perioperative stroke, the review also summarizes the multifunctional nanodelivery systems based on ischemic stroke, thus providing insight into the nanotherapeutic strategies for perioperative stroke.
Effect of the number of parity on right heart chamber quantification
Authors: Keskin Muhammed , Borklu Edibe Betul , Doğan Selami , Öztürk Bayram , Kaya Adnan , Öcal Lütfi , Çerşit Sinan , Tenekecioğlu Erhan , Keskin Ümran , Keser Nurgül , Orhan Ahmet L.
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Pregnancy is a process that can cause several physiologic changes to the cardiovascular system such as ventricular hypertrophy and dilation of cardiac chambers. Although there are studies about pregnancy‐related changes in echocardiographic examination; there is no data about the long‐term effects of parity on these alterations. Therefore, we evaluated the long‐term effect of pregnancy on right ventricular (RV) dilation and RV hypertrophy and their relation to the parity number.

Methods

This prospective study included a total of 600 women (200 consecutive women who had no parity, 200 women who had a parity number of 1 to 4 and 200 women who had a parity number of more than 4). Right chambers’ measurements were compared between the groups.

Results

In echocardiographic analysis, RV and right atrial dimensions and areas and RV wall thickness were higher in parous women. On the other hand, RV systolic function parameters were significantly lower in parous women. These significant changes showed a gradual increase or decrease by increasing parity number. By multivariate hierarchical logistic regression analysis, the four independent factors that increased the risk of RV dilation were age (OR: 1.16 CI: 1.10–1.20), body mass index (OR: 1.05, CI: 1.02–1.08), smoking (OR: 1.87, CI: 1.28–4.02), and giving a birth (OR: 3.94 CI: 1.82–8.81). There was also independent relationship between the number of parity and RV hypertrophy even after adjustment for several confounders.

Conclusion

Pregnancy‐related physiological changes mostly resolve after delivery. This study about long‐term effects of pregnancy on RV has demonstrated that there is a significant relation between the number of parity and either RV dilation or RV hypertrophy. Each parity had also additive effect on these changes.
Inhibition of ERK1/2 regulates cognitive function by decreasing expression levels of PSD‐95 in the hippocampus of CIH rats
Authors: Huang Qin , Wang Pei , Liu Haijun , Li Mingjian , Yue Yujiao , Xu Ping
Published: March 2022

Obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) is a potentially severe sleep disorder characterized by intermittent hypoxia, and there is growing evidence that OSAS can lead to cognitive decline. Extracellular signal‐regulated protein kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) plays a key role in synaptic plasticity. We established CIH model in male SD rats and examined their expression of p‐ERK1/2 and PSD‐95, as well as in CIH group; the effect of SL327 on the expression of p‐ERK1/2 and PSD‐95 in hippocampus of CIH model rats was observed by pretreating the experimental rats with SL327 during peak time of p‐ERK1/2 expression. Mean oxygen saturation in the tail artery was lower in the CIH group. CIH groups exhibited increased escape latencies in the navigation test and decreased numbers of platform crossings in the space exploration test. Reduced volume, irregular structure, deepened cytoplasmic eosinophilic staining in the cytoplasm and decreased nuclear size were found in hippocampal neurons in the 28‐d CIH and 28‐d CIH + SL327 group. The hippocampus of CIH rats' p‐ERK expressions gradually increased with prolonged CIH exposure but decreased after SL327 treatment. Moreover, PSD‐95 expressions gradually reduced in the 14‐d CIH, 21‐d CIH and 28‐d CIH groups but increased in the SL327‐treated group. The SL327 intervention decreased p‐ERK1/2 expression, increased PSD‐95 expression and improved cognitive function in CIH rats. The present findings provide some insights into the mechanisms underlying OSAS‐associated cognitive impairment.
Loss of hippocampal dentation in hippocampal sclerosis and its relationship to memory dysfunction
Authors: Kilpattu Ramaniharan Anandh , Zhang Mike Weng , Selladurai Goutham , Martin Roy , Ver Hoef Lawrence
Published: March 2022

Objective

Hippocampal dentation (HD) is a “toothlike” morphological feature observed on the inferior aspect of the human hippocampus. It has been found that HD varies dramatically in healthy adults and is positively associated with verbal and visual memory. In this work, we evaluate the loss of HD and its association with memory dysfunction in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) who have hippocampal sclerosis (HS).

Methods

Fifty‐eight unilateral HS patients with neuropsychological data were identified from a retrospective database. T1‐weighted magnetization‐prepared rapid acquisition gradient echo images (~1 mm resolution) were upsampled to .25 mm and were processed using ASHS software to obtain ultra‐high‐resolution segmentations and three‐dimensional renderings. Dentes were counted on the epileptic and contralateral sides, and associations were tested between dentation on the epileptic versus contralateral sides and measures of verbal and visuospatial memory with respect to the dominant versus nondominant hemisphere.

Results

The median number of dentes in epileptic hippocampi was significantly lower than in contralateral hippocampi (p < .0001). Among cases with HS in the dominant hemisphere, verbal memory was significantly correlated with contralateral nondominant hemisphere dentation (r = .43, p = .04). Similarly, among cases of HS in the nondominant hemisphere, visual memory was significantly correlated with contralateral dominant hemisphere dentation (r = .48, p = .04). All other analyses were not significant.

Significance

This is the first study characterizing dentation in TLE patients with HS and its memory correlates. There is marked loss of dentation in sclerotic hippocampi compared to the unaffected contralateral hippocampi. Material‐specific measures of memory performance are paradoxically correlated with dentation contralateral to the side with HS, suggesting that contralateral functional capacity explains some of the variation in memory across TLE patients. HD is an important variable to consider in understanding memory loss in TLE.
Role expectations and shared accountability: A framework for school governance
Authors: Unda Luisa A. , Gong Zhiyun , Benati Kelly , Loh Chin Moi
Published: March 2022

This research examines how perceptions of shared accountability for performance arise in a context of role expectations and interpersonal exchanges. We use the education context to view accountability as involving elements of board's and management's role expectations, history of their relationship, and leadership governance mechanisms. Using Frink and Klimoski's accountability role theory model, we explore governance roles, accountability practices, and school performance. We analyze interview data related to board chairs, board members, and principals/heads of Australian independent schools. We find that role expectations as well as the interpersonal exchanges (i.e., board/chair–principal relationship) shape accountability perceptions regarding school performance. The findings offer insights into the links between role expectations, interpersonal factors, and accountability practices. We point to the need of having a shared accountability model between the board and the principal, which may lead to improvement in performance within the school context.
Long‐term soil warming alters fine root dynamics and morphology, and their ectomycorrhizal fungal community in a temperate forest soil
Authors: Kwatcho Kengdo Steve , Peršoh Derek , Schindlbacher Andreas , Heinzle Jakob , Tian Ye , Wanek Wolfgang , Borken Werner
Published: March 2022

Climate warming is predicted to affect temperate forests severely, but the response of fine roots, key to plant nutrition, water uptake, soil carbon, and nutrient cycling is unclear. Understanding how fine roots will respond to increasing temperature is a prerequisite for predicting the functioning of forests in a warmer climate. We studied the response of fine roots and their ectomycorrhizal (EcM) fungal and root‐associated bacterial communities to soil warming by 4°C in a mixed spruce‐beech forest in the Austrian Limestone Alps after 8 and 14 years of soil warming, respectively. Fine root biomass (FRB) and fine root production were 17% and 128% higher in the warmed plots, respectively, after 14 years. The increase in FRB (13%) was not significant after 8 years of treatment, whereas specific root length, specific root area, and root tip density were significantly higher in warmed plots at both sampling occasions. Soil warming did not affect EcM exploration types and diversity, but changed their community composition, with an increase in the relative abundance of Cenoccocum at 0–10 cm soil depth, a drought‐stress‐tolerant genus, and an increase in short‐ and long‐distance exploration types like Sebacina and Boletus at 10–20 cm soil depth. Warming increased the root‐associated bacterial diversity but did not affect their community composition. Soil warming did not affect nutrient concentrations of fine roots, though we found indications of limited soil phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) availability. Our findings suggest that, in the studied ecosystem, global warming could persistently increase soil carbon inputs due to accelerated fine root growth and turnover, and could simultaneously alter fine root morphology and EcM fungal community composition toward improved nutrient foraging.
Ecological traits underlying interspecific variation in climate matching of birds
Authors: Viana Duarte S. , Chase Jonathan M.
Published: March 2022

Aim

The abundances and distributions of some species are more closely matched to variations in climate than others. Species traits that might influence how well the distribution and abundance of a species are matched to climatic variation include life history (e.g., body size and dispersal ability), ecology (e.g., habitat specialization and territoriality) and demography (e.g., population size). Here, we used a survey of bird abundances across the USA to assess the extent to which species abundances and distributions are predicted by climate (i.e., climate matching) and how species traits relate to interspecific variation in climate matching.

Location

USA.

Time period

1983–2018.

Major taxa studied

Birds.

Methods

Species abundances were obtained from the North American Breeding Bird Survey. Climate matching was estimated as the predictive performance of species–climate models fitted using boosted regression trees and generalized additive models and modelled as a function of species traits.

Results

Species traits explained 56% of the variation in climate matching among species. Intermediate‐sized species were more well matched to climate than smaller or larger species, as were species that lived primarily in forested compared with open habitats, species that were locally more abundant and species that were more territorial. Alternatively, species that were more specialized or had high variability in abundance among sites were less well matched to climate. We also found that species classified as “near threatened” were more well matched to climate, suggesting that these species might be more vulnerable to climate change. However, species classified as “vulnerable” were more decoupled from climate than those of “least concern”, possibly owing to ecological drift associated with progressive population declines.

Main conclusions

Our findings provide an ecological basis for understanding the extent to which species abundances and distributions match broad climatic gradients, which can provide the groundwork to improve our ability to predict distributions under global change.
The biomechanical efficacy of a dressing with a soft cellulose fluff core in protecting prone surgical patients from chest injuries on the operating table
Authors: Lustig Maayan , Gefen Amit
Published: March 2022

Pressure ulcers are soft‐tissue damage associated with tissue exposure to sustained deformations and stress concentrations. In patients who are proned for ventilation or surgery, such damage may occur in the superficial chest tissues that are compressed between the rib cage and the support surface. Prophylactic dressings have been previously proven as generally effective for pressure ulcer prevention. In this study, our goal was to develop a novel computational modelling framework to investigate the biomechanical efficacy of a dressing with a soft cellulose fluff core in protecting proned surgical patients from chest pressure ulcers occurring on the operating table, due to body fixation by the Relton‐Hall frame. We compared the levels of mechanical compressive stresses developing in the soft chest tissues, above the sternum and ribs, due to the trunk weight, whilst the body is supported by the Relton‐Hall frame pads, with versus without the prophylactically applied bilateral dressings. The protective efficacy index for the extremely high stresses, above the 95th‐percentile, were 40.5%, 25.6% and 24.2% for skin, adipose and muscle, respectively, indicating that the dressings dispersed elevated soft‐tissue stresses. The current results provide additional support for using soft cellulose fluff core dressings for pressure ulcer prophylaxis, including during surgery.