bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunological and functional features of decellularized xenogeneic heart valves after transplantation into GGTA1-KO pigs
Authors: Ramm Robert , Goecke Tobias , Köhler Peter , Tudorache Igor , Cebotari Serghei , Ciubotaru Anatol , Sarikouch Samir , Höffler Klaus , Bothe Friederike , Petersen Björn , Haverich Axel , Niemann Heiner , Hilfiker Andres
Published: August 2021

Decellularization of xenogeneic heart valves might lead to excellent regenerative implants, from which many patients could benefit. However, this material carries various xenogeneic epitopes and thus bears a considerable inherent immunological risk. Here, we investigated the regenerative and immunogenic potential of xenogeneic decellularized heart valve implants using pigs deficient for the galactosyltransferase gene (GGTA1-KO) as novel large animal model. Decellularized aortic and pulmonary heart valves obtained from sheep, wild-type pigs or GGTA1-KO pigs were implanted into GGTA1-KO pigs for 3, or 6 months, respectively. Explants were analyzed histologically, immunhistologically (CD3, CD21 and CD172a) and anti-αGal antibody serum titers were determined by ELISA. Xenogeneic sheep derived implants exhibited a strong immune reaction upon implantation into GGTA1-KO pigs, characterized by massive inflammatory cells infiltrates, presence of foreign body giant cells, a dramatic increase of anti-αGal antibody titers and ultimately destruction of the graft, whereas wild-type porcine grafts induced only a mild reaction in GGTA1-KO pigs. Allogeneic implants, wild-type/wild-type and GGTA1-KO/GGTA1-KO valves did not induce a measurable immune reaction. Thus, GGTA1-KO pigs developed a ‘human-like’ immune response toward decellularized xenogeneic implants showing that immunogenicity of xenogeneic implants is not sufficiently reduced by decellularization, which detracts from their regenerative potential.
MEASUREMENT OF HALF-VALUE LAYER IN COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY SCANNERS USING LUMINESCENCE OF POLYETHERSULFONE RESIN BY X-RAY IRRADIATION
Authors: Yamauchi-Kawaura C , Maki E , Fujii K , Komori M , Imai K
Published: August 2021

In this study, a method for estimating the half-value layer (HVL) and effective energy (Eeff) by imaging the luminescence from a polyethersulfone (PES) resin with rotating irradiation of X-rays in a computed tomography scanner was developed. The luminescence of the PES resin was imaged using a charge-coupled device camera. The PES-HVL was determined from the luminance attenuation profile corresponding to the X-ray attenuation within the resin. The PES-HVLs for tube potentials of 80–135 kVp were converted into Eeff values and were compared to those of a conventional lead-covered case method. The Eeff obtained using the proposed luminescence imaging method agreed within ~3.9% of that obtained using the conventional method. Moreover, dose simulations based on the X-ray spectrum calculated from the HVLs were performed using a poly(methyl methacrylate) phantom with a diameter of 16 cm. The simulated doses based on the luminescence imaging method agreed with the in-phantom dosimetry within ~9%.
Aflatoxin B1 Induces Gut-Inflammation-Associated Fecal Lipidome Changes in F344 Rats
Authors: Zhou Jun , Tang Lili , Wang Jia-Sheng
Published: August 2021

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) induced intestinal epithelial damage in rodent models, which indicates that long-term exposure to AFB1 may cause chronic gut disorders. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that AFB1-induced adverse effects on gut is mediated by gut-microbiota, which is partially reflected by the changes of fecal microbiome and metabolome. F344 rats were orally exposed to AFB1 of 0, 5, 25, and 75 µg kg−1 body weight for 4 weeks and fecal samples were collected. An ion-fragmentation-spectrum-based metabolomics approach was developed to investigate the fecal microbiota-associated metabolic changes in fecal samples. We found that AFB1 inhibited the hepatic and intestinal metabolism of bile constituents. As compared with the controls, bile acid synthesis-associated cholesterols in rats treated with 25 µg kg−1 (the middle-dose group) were significantly decreased in the fecal samples, for example, lathosterol (45% reduction), cholesterol ester (21% reduction), chenodeoxycholic acid (20% reduction), dihydroxycholesterol (55% reduction), hydroxycholesterol (20% reduction), and 5-cholestene (29% reduction). Although disease-associated lipids were not detectable in the feces of the control group, they were found in AFB1-treated groups, including diglyceride, monoacylglyceride, 19,20-dihydroxy-docosapentaenoic acid, and phosphatidylethanolamine. Metabolisms of carbohydrates and production of short-chain fatty acids were remarkedly decreased in all treated groups. Moreover, an inflammatory-bowel-disease (IBD)-associated taxonomic structure of fecal microbiota was observed as ∼25% Lachnospiraceae, ∼25% Ruminococcaceae, and <1% Lactobacillales, which was similar to the composition pattern found in IBD patients. These results suggest that AFB1-induced disruption on gut-microbiota, partially reflected by fecal microbiome and metabolome, may play important roles in the pathogenesis of chronic gut disorders.
A Characterization of a Cool-Climate Organic Vineyard’s Microbiome
Authors: Wright A. Harrison , Ali Shawkat , Migicovsky Zoë , Douglas Gavin M. , Yurgel Svetlana , Bunbury-Blanchette Adèle , Franklin Jeff , Adams Sarah J. , Walker Allison K.
Published: August 2021

The microbiome, an influential factor affecting plant health and growth, is attracting increasing interest with respect to wine grape production. The purpose of this study was to characterize the microbiome (fungi and bacteria) of the soil, cover crop roots, and grape (Vitis spp.) roots across rootstock and depth in a cool-climate, organic vineyard. The cover crop consisted of a fescue (Festuca sp.) grass, while grape roots were sampled from New York Muscat, a cool-climate hybrid, across three root types (ungrafted, 3309C and Riparia Gloire) at three root depths (0 to 15, 15 to 30, and 30 to 50 cm). The grape root microbiome was more specialized, with fewer observed amplicon sequence variants for both bacteria (16S) and fungi (internal transcribe spacer) than found in the cover crop and the surrounding soil. Grape roots were dominated by bacterial genera Pseudomonas, Niastella, and Rhizobium; most prominent fungal genera were Plectosphaerella, Trichosporon, and Ilyonectria. Although no correlations were found between α-diversity metrics and soil parameters, Pseudaleuria relative abundance was correlated with Mn, Fe, and Na levels. Soil depth explained a small portion of bacterial but not fungal variance and taxonomic composition. Rootstock type explained a portion of both bacterial and fungal variance and taxonomic composition, substantiating the role of host plant genetics in the development of the grape root microbiome. This is the first characterization of the grape root microbiome in a cool-climate Canadian vineyard.
Pythium myriotylum Is Recovered Most Frequently from Pythium Soft Rot-Infected Ginger Rhizomes in China
Authors: Daly Paul , Chen Yifan , Zhang Qimeng , Zhu Hongli , Li Jingjing , Zhang Jinfeng , Deng Sheng , Wang Lunji , Zhou Dongmei , Tang Zhaoyang , Wei Lihui
Published: August 2021

Pythium soft rot is a major soilborne disease of crops such as ginger (Zingiber officinale). Our objective was to identify which Pythium species were associated with Pythium soft rot of ginger in China, where approximately 20% of global ginger production is located. Oomycetes infecting ginger rhizomes from seven provinces were investigated using two molecular markers, the internal transcribed spacer, and cytochrome c oxidase subunit II (CoxII). In total, 81 isolates were recovered; approximately 95% of the isolates were identified as Pythium myriotylum, and the other isolates were identified as either P. aphanidermatum or P. graminicola. Notably, the P. myriotylum isolates from China did not contain the single nucleotide polymorphism in the CoxII sequence found previously in the P. myriotylum isolates infecting ginger in Australia. A subset of 36 isolates was analyzed repeatedly by temperature-dependent growth, severity of disease on ginger plants, and aggressiveness of colonization on ginger rhizome sticks. In the pathogenicity assays, 32 of 36 isolates were able to significantly infect and cause severe disease symptoms on the ginger plants. A range of temperature-dependent growth, disease severity, and aggressiveness in colonization was found, with a significant moderate positive correlation between growth and aggressiveness of colonization of the ginger sticks. This study identified P. myriotylum as the major oomycete pathogen in China from infected ginger rhizomes and suggested that P. myriotylum should be a key target to control soft rot of ginger disease.
Socio-economic determinants of mobility responses during the first wave of COVID-19 in Italy: from provinces to neighbourhoods
Authors: Gauvin Laetitia , Bajardi Paolo , Pepe Emanuele , Lake Brennan , Privitera Filippo , Tizzoni Michele
Published: August 2021

After more than 1 year into the COVID-19 pandemic, governments worldwide still face the challenge of adopting non-pharmaceutical interventions to mitigate the risks posed by the emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants and the lack of a worldwide equitable vaccine allocation. Thus, it becomes crucial to identify the drivers of mobility responses to mitigation efforts during different restriction regimes, for planning interventions that are both economically and socially sustainable while effective in controlling an outbreak. Here, using anonymous and privacy-enhanced cell phone data from Italy, we investigate the determinants of spatial variations of reductions in mobility and co-location in response to the adoption and the lift of restrictions, considering both provinces and city neighbourhoods. In large urban areas, our analysis uncovers the desertification of historic city centres, which persisted after the end of the lockdown. Such centre-periphery gradient was mainly associated with differences in educational attainment. At the province level, the local structure of the labour market mainly explained the variations in mobility responses, together with other demographic factors, such as the population’s age and sex composition. In the future, targeted interventions should take into account how the ability to comply with restrictions varies across geographical areas and socio-demographic groups.
Perceiving and remembering speech depend on multifractal nonlinearity in movements producing and exploring speech
Authors: Bloomfield Lauren , Lane Elizabeth , Mangalam Madhur , Kelty-Stephen Damian G.
Published: August 2021

Speech perception and memory for speech require active engagement. Gestural theories have emphasized mainly the effect of speaker's movements on speech perception. They fail to address the effects of listener movement, focusing on communication as a boundary condition constraining movement among interlocutors. The present work attempts to break new ground by using multifractal geometry of physical movement as a common currency for supporting both sides of the speaker–listener dyads. Participants self-paced their listening to a narrative, after which they completed a test of memory querying their narrative comprehension and their ability to recognize words from the story. The multifractal evidence of nonlinear interactions across timescales predicted the fluency of speech perception. Self-pacing movements that enabled listeners to control the presentation of speech sounds constituted a rich exploratory process. The multifractal nonlinearity of this exploration supported several aspects of memory for the perceived spoken language. These findings extend the role of multifractal geometry in the speaker's movements to the narrative case of speech perception. In addition to posing novel basic research questions, these findings make a compelling case for calibrating multifractal structure in text-to-speech synthesizers for better perception and memory of speech.
Cosegregation of asymmetric features during cell division
Authors: Anda Silje , Boye Erik , Schink Kay Oliver , Grallert Beata
Published: August 2021

Cellular asymmetry plays a major role in the ageing and evolution of multicellular organisms. However, it remains unknown how the cell distinguishes ‘old’ from ‘new’ and whether asymmetry is an attribute of highly specialized cells or a feature inherent in all cells. Here, we investigate the segregation of three asymmetric features: old and new DNA, the spindle pole body (SPB, the centrosome analogue) and the old and new cell ends, using a simple unicellular eukaryote,
Schizosaccharomyces pombe
. To our knowledge, this is the first study exploring three asymmetric features in the same cells. We show that of the three chromosomes of
S. pombe
, chromosome I containing the new parental strand, preferentially segregated to the cells inheriting the old cell end. Furthermore, the new SPB also preferentially segregated to the cells inheriting the old end. Our results suggest that the ability to distinguish ‘old’ from ‘new’ and to segregate DNA asymmetrically are inherent features even in simple unicellular eukaryotes.
Steroidobacter gossypii sp. nov., isolated from cotton field soil
Authors: Huang Rui-Rui , Ge Xian-Feng , Chen Xin-Kai , Yang Shen-Rong , Zhen Cheng , Wen Zhi-Qiang , Li Ya-Nan , Liu Wen-Zheng
Published: August 2021

A Gram-negative bacterium, designated S1-65T, was isolated from soil samples collected from a cotton field located in the Xinjiang region of PR China. Results of 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis revealed that strain S1-65T was affiliated to the genus

Steroidobacter

with its closest phylogenetic relatives being ‘Steroidobacter cummioxidans’ 35Y (98.4 %), ‘

Steroidobacter agaridevorans

’ SA29-B (98.3 %) and

Steroidobacter agariperforans

KA5-BT (98.3 %). 16S rRNA-directed phylogenetic analysis showed that strain S1-65T formed a unique phylogenetic subclade next to ‘

S. agaridevorans

’ SA29-B and

S. agariperforans

KA5-BT, suggesting that strain S1-65T should be identified as a member of the genus

Steroidobacter

. Further, substantial differences between the genotypic properties of strain S1-65T and the members of the genus

Steroidobacter

, including average nucleotide identity and digital DNA–DNA hybridization, resolved the taxonomic position of strain S1-65T and suggested its positioning as representing a novel species of the genus

Steroidobacter

. The DNA G+C content of strain S1-65T was 62.5 mol%, based on its draft genome sequence. The predominant respiratory quinone was ubiquinone-8. The main fatty acids were identified as summed feature 3 (C16:1ω6c/C16:1ω7c), C16 : 0 and iso-C15 : 0. In addition, its polar lipid profile was composed of aminophospholipid, diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylglycerol. Here, we propose a novel species of the genus

Steroidobacter

: Steroidobacter gossypii sp. nov. with the type strain S1-65T (=JCM 34287T=CGMCC 1.18736T).
DNA-controlled Spatio-temporal Patterning of a Cytoskeletal Active Gel
Authors: Vyborna Yuliia , Galas Jean-Christophe , Estevez-Torres Andre
Published: August 2021

Living cells move and change their shape because signaling chemical reactions modify the state of their cytoskeleton; an active gel that converts chemical energy into mechanical forces. To create life-like materials, it is thus key to engineer chemical pathways that drive active gels. Here, we describe the preparation of DNA-responsive surfaces that control the activity of a cytoskeletal active gel com-prised of microtubules: a DNA signal triggers the release of molecular motors from the surface into the gel bulk, generating forces that structure the gel. Depending on the DNA sequence and concentration, the gel forms a periodic band pattern or contracts globally. Finally, we show that the structuration of the active gel can be spatially controlled in the presence of a gradient of DNA concentration. We anticipate that such DNA-controlled active matter will contribute to the development of life-like mate-rials with self-shaping properties.
Regional Variant Analysis of Spike Glycoprotein Mutations of SARS-CoV-2 and Its Implications in COVID-19 Pandemic Control
Authors: Naseef Punnoth Poonkuzhi , Kuruniyan Mohamed Saheer , Ollakkod Shyju , Ilyas U.K. , Elayadeth-Meethal Muhammed
Published: August 2021

Mutations in the spike glycoprotein have various impacts on the receptor binding, antibody interaction, and host range of SARS-CoV-2. As the interaction of spike glycoprotein with the human ACE2 receptor is the entry point of SARS-CoV-2 in human cells, mutations in the spike protein itself contain numerous impacts on the pandemic. Here, we analysed all the mutations in the spike glycoprotein from123 strains isolated from Kerala, India. We also predicted the possible structural relevance of the unique mutations based on topological analysis of the residue interaction network of the spike glycoprotein structure.
Protective mucosal immunity against SARS-CoV-2 after heterologous systemic RNA-mucosal adenoviral vector immunization
Authors: Lapuente Dennis , Fuchs Jana , Willar Jonas , Antão Ana V , Eberlein Valentina , Uhlig Nadja , Issmail Leila , Schmidt Anna , Oltmanns Friederike , Peter Antonia Sophia , Mueller-Schmucker Sandra , Irrgang Pascal , Fraedrich Kirsten , Cara Andrea , Hoffmann Markus , Pöhlmann Stefan , Ensser Armin , Pertl Cordula , Willert Torsten , Thirion Christian , Grunwald Thomas , Überla Klaus , Tenbusch Matthias
Published: August 2021

Several effective SARS-CoV-2 vaccines are currently in use, but in the light of waning immunity and the emergence of novel variants, effective boost modalities are needed in order to maintain or even increase immunity. Here we report that intranasal vaccinations with adenovirus 5 and 19a vectored vaccines following a systemic DNA or mRNA priming result in strong systemic and mucosal immunity in mice. In contrast to two intramuscular injections with an mRNA vaccine, the mucosal boost with adenoviral vectors induced high levels of IgA and tissue-resident memory T cells in the respiratory tract. Mucosal neutralization of virus variants of concern was also enhanced by the intranasal boosts. Importantly, priming with mRNA provoked a more comprehensive T cell response consisting of circulating and tissue-resident memory T cells after the boost, while a DNA priming induced mostly mucosal T cells. Concomitantly, the intranasal boost strategies provided protection against symptomatic disease. Therefore, a mucosal booster immunization after mRNA priming is a promising approach to establish mucosal immunity in addition to systemic responses.
1,1′-Methylenebis(4-tert-butylpyridinium) dichloride hemihydrate
Authors: Bruekers J.P.J. , Elemans J.A.A.W. , Nolte R.J.M. , Tinnemans P.
Published: August 2021

The structure of the title hydrated salt, C19H28N2
2+·2Cl−·0.5H2O, at 150 K has monoclinic (C2/c) symmetry. The water molecule is located on a twofold rotation axis.
Corrosion inhibitor system for blocking polymer well by potassium persulfate injection
Authors: Cheng Qingchao , Cao Guangsheng , Sang Congyu , Bai Yujie , Li Dan , Bu Ruixuan
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to clarify the corrosion inhibition effect of different corrosion inhibitor systems on the corrosion of metal pipe string by potassium persulfate plugging agent, so as to improve the injection capacity of polymer plugging well and reduce the corrosion of steel by oxidant plugging agent.

Design/methodology/approach

The effect of different corrosion inhibitors on the corrosion inhibition of N80 carbon steel in 1% potassium persulfate solution was studied by electrochemical experiment and weight loss experiment. The corrosion inhibition mechanism of potassium persulfate inhibitor and the synergistic mechanism among different inhibitors were analyzed.

Findings

The results indicated that when the temperature was 50°C, the inhibition effect of 0.2% sodium molybdate with a single inhibitor was the best at pH 8.5, and the inhibition rate was 70.17%. The inhibition efficiency of 0.2% sodium molybdate + 0.3% sodium silicate in the composite inhibition system can reach 94.38%. In the temperature range of 20°C–60°C, with the increase of system temperature, the inhibition effect of corrosion inhibitor will gradually weaken.

Originality/value

The corrosion inhibition system of N80 steel in potassium persulfate oxidant was mainly studied, and it clarified the influence of temperature and pH value on the corrosion inhibition effect, which provided guidance and suggestions for the corrosion inhibition of tubular string in the oilfield.
Salt iodisation of processed foods in Germany: evidence, processors' perceptions and implications for public health
Authors: Bissinger Katharina , Herrmann Roland , Jordan Irmgard
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The authors provide primary data on salt iodisation of processed foods in Germany, analyse reasons for food processors' use or non-use of iodisation and derive implications for public health.

Design/methodology/approach

Statistical evidence is presented on the use of iodised salt in bread and bakery products, meat and meat products and dairy products in the German grocery-retailing sector. Information is based on mobile data collection in a representative sample of grocery stores in four German cities. These data are analysed with logistic regression models. Additionally, an online survey of bakers and butchers is utilised to record and to explain the use of iodised salt in specialised food stores.

Findings

Salt was added in 69.3% of the 29,910 foods analysed in the market study. When salt was added, iodised salt was used in only 28.5% of the cases. According to the online survey, only 44% of the bakers and butchers used iodised salt, and the user share declined over time. Incomplete information from processors on the role of iodised salt for public health is contributing to the low and declining user share.

Originality/value

The authors combine different market research methods and elaborate that the recommendation by the German Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture – “If salt, then iodised salt” – is implemented to a very limited extent by the food industry and specialised food stores. From the behaviour of food processors and their perceptions of salt iodisation, the authors gain new insights for policy and public health.
The impact of business analytics capability on data-driven culture and exploration: achieving a competitive advantage
Authors: Almazmomi Najah , Ilmudeen Aboobucker , Qaffas Alaa A.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

In today's business setting, the business analytic capability, data-driven culture and product development features are highly pronounced in light of the firm's competitive advantage. Though widespread attention has been given to the above concepts, there hasn't been much research done on how it could support achieving competitive advantage.

Design/methodology/approach

This research strongly lies on the theoretical background and empirically tests the hypothesized relationships. The primary survey of 272 responses was analysed by using the partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM).

Findings

The findings of this study show a significant relationship for the constructs in the research model except for the third hypothesis. Accordingly, the firm's data-driven culture does not have a significant impact on new product newness.

Originality/value

This study empirically tests the business analytics capability, data-driven culture, and new product development features in the context of a firm's competitive advantage. The findings of this study contribute to the theoretical, practical and managerial aspects of this field.
Belle, Inc.
Authors: Hutchison-Krupat Jeremy Chapman , Kraft Tim , Weiss Elliott N.
Published: August 2021

This case is an updated version of “Netflix Inc.: DVD Wars” (UVA-M-0763), and was written as a replacement for it.

A financial analyst is asked to appraise the value of Netflix’s stock at a time of unprecedented turmoil for the company. This case introduces customer lifetime value (CLV) as a useful metric for subscription-based businesses.
How do female engineers conceptualise career advancement in engineering: a template analysis
Authors: Yates Julia , Skinner Sarah
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Existing research has established that women drop out of engineering careers in part because of a dissatisfaction with their career development, but women's understanding of career development in engineering has been as yet largely unexplored. This paper aims to explore female engineers' experiences of navigating their careers and their perceptions of barriers to career development, through the lens of the intelligent career framework (ICF).

Design/methodology/approach

The in-depth interviews of this study were conducted with female engineers in the UK and analysed using template analysis.

Findings

The authors identified three structural barriers that participants felt hinder women's career development in engineering: (1) promotions are more likely to be given to people who are widely known – more often men; (2) promotions are more likely to be given to people on whom high status is conferred in this context – more often men and (3) promotions are more likely to be given to people who conform to the ideal worker ideology – more often men. The women also offered a series of counter-narratives in which they reframed the behaviour they witnessed as something other than sexism.

Originality/value

The findings highlight the significant and systemic bias against women's career development through gender stereotypes in workplaces and an implicitly gendered organisation that hinders the development of the three competencies needed for career advancement. The authors describe a range of counter-narratives that the participants use to help them to make sense of their experiences. Finally, the authors illustrate the application of the intelligent career framework (ICF) as a lens to view the career development culture of an organisation.
Paradoxical tensions in sustainable supply chain management: insights from the electronics multi-tier supply chain context
Authors: Zehendner Axel Georg , Sauer Philipp C. , Schöpflin Patrick , Kähkönen Anni-Kaisa , Seuring Stefan
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Managing supply chains (SCs) for sustainability often results in conflicting demands, which can be conceptualized as sustainability tensions. This paper studies sustainability tensions in electronics SC contexts and the related management responses by applying a paradox perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

A single case study on the electronics SC is conducted with companies and third-party organizations as embedded units of analysis, using semi-structured interviews that are triangulated with publicly available data.

Findings

The study identifies tension elements (learning, belonging, organizing and economic performing) conflicting with general social–ecological objectives in the electronics SC. The results indicate a hierarchal structure among the sustainability tensions in SC contexts. The management responses of contextualization and resolution are assigned to the identified tensions.

Practical implications

Framing social–ecological objectives with their conflicting elements as paradoxical tensions enables organizations and SCs to develop better strategies for responding to complex sustainability issues in SC contexts.

Originality/value

The study contributes toward filling the gap on paradoxical sustainability tensions in SCs. Empirical insights are gained from different actors in the electronics SC. The level of emergence and interconnectedness of sustainability tensions in a larger SC context is explored through an outside-in perspective.
Supply chain resilience in mindful humanitarian aid organizations: the role of big data analytics
Authors: Dennehy Denis , Oredo John , Spanaki Konstantina , Despoudi Stella , Fitzgibbon Mike
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand the nomological network of associations between collective mindfulness and big data analytics in fostering resilient humanitarian relief supply chains.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conceptualize a research model grounded in literature and test the hypotheses using survey data collected from informants at humanitarian aid organizations in Africa and Europe.

Findings

The findings demonstrate that organizational mindfulness is key to enabling resilient humanitarian relief supply chains, as opposed to just big data analytics.

Originality/value

This is the first study to examine organizational mindfulness and big data analytics in the context of humanitarian relief supply chains.
Overcoming the collaborative challenge: commitment as a super-ordinate enabler of value co-creation
Authors: Fawcett Stanley E. , Fawcett Amydee M. , Knemeyer August Michael , Brockhaus Sebastian , Webb G. Scott
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Despite over 30 years of focus on supply chain collaboration, companies continue to struggle to achieve collaborative advantage. To better understand why some companies are able to collaborate for competitive advantage and others can't, the authors explore how managerial commitment enables collaborative capabilities.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors employed a longitudinal inductive study, interviewing companies with reputations for intense supply chain collaboration at four different times over 20 years.

Findings

The authors identified managerial commitment as a super-ordinate enabler. They describe the dynamics of commitment development and explore three types of commitment: instrumental, normative and transformative. The authors document key antecedents and outcomes of each type of commitment.

Research limitations/implications

Theory regarding the antecedents to commitment to collaborative capability is underdeveloped. The authors elaborate these antecedents and the dynamics that enable or undermine the commitment necessary to build effective collaboration capabilities.

Practical implications

The authors provide insight (i.e. a practical and actionable roadmap) into the process companies use to cultivate commitment to collaboration and value co-creation.

Originality/value

Collaboration is critical to value co-creation, including effective supply chain risk mitigation and lasting sustainability efforts. The authors elaborate a theory of commitment dynamics that explains why most companies never go beyond basic levels of collaboration. At the same time, the authors provide a roadmap for deep, transformative collaboration.
Leadership and innovative work behaviour within Ghanaian metropolitan assemblies: mediating role of resource supply
Authors: Baafi Frank , Ansong Abraham , Dogbey Kennedy Etse , Owusu Nicodemus Osei
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This study explores the role of transformational leadership, transactional leadership and resource supply in enhancing innovative work behaviour using the mediation model.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data was gathered from 314 local government staff from the six metropolitan assemblies in Ghana. Structural equation modelling was used for the analysis.

Findings

The results suggest that transformational and transactional leadership behaviours provided an impetus for innovative behaviours. Also, resource supply was found to mediate the relationship between transformational leadership behaviours and innovative work behaviour.

Practical implications

Public managers can improve the innovative behaviour of public servants by providing resources for innovation, setting up proper reward structures, communicating vision clearly and clarifying performance expectations.

Originality/value

This is the first study to investigate innovative work behaviour within the Ghanaian local government sector and the context of a developing country in Africa. The study extends the literature on innovative work behaviour by exploring the role of leadership and resource supply.
An institutional theory perspective on public sector reform and service performance reporting by New Zealand universities
Authors: Rana Tarek , Ahmed Zahir Uddin , Narayan Anil , Zheng Mingxing
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to examine new public management (NPM) reform in New Zealand Universities (NZUs) and the process by which government policy changes generated service performance reporting (SPR), and how the SPR practices were institutionalised. It seeks to explain the underlying institutional forces of the reform process, how universities were subjected to accountability pressures through government-imposed managerial techniques and how universities responded to them.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors draw on the theoretical lens of neo-institutional theory and the concept of NPM to interpret the setting of SPR. Data comprise annual reports and other documents produced by the NZUs.

Findings

The findings show that the development of the SPR was driven by NPM ideals and rationales of greater transparency and accountability. The institutional pressures bestowed extra power to the government by demanding greater accounting reporting of university performance. It also shows the ensemble of institutions, organisations and management practices that were deployed to reorganise performance reporting practices.

Research limitations/implications

The study adds to the neo-institutional theory work that universities are experiencing extraordinary institutional pressure to become a market-type commodity in New Zealand and internationally. The findings have implications for government, universities, policymakers and public sector professionals who work in public sector reform.

Originality/value

Through the institutional theoretical lens, the study offers new insights into our understanding of NPM-driven regulation and institutionalisation of managerial techniques. The insights inform policy and practice surrounding design, implementation and the potential effect of future policy changes with reference to the performance of NZUs and internationally.
Motivational factors into agriculture as a career path: narratives of Black emerging farmers as entrepreneurs in South Africa
Authors: Mpetile Ziyanda , Chinyamurindi Willie
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The transformation of the agricultural landscape is deemed as an essential nation-building priority in post-democratic South Africa. Part of the activity of transformation is affording disenfranchised groups opportunity to participate in careers where they were excluded. The purpose of the study is to investigate the motivational factors that influenced emerging Black farmers as entrepreneurs to choose agriculture as a career path in post-democratic South Africa.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopted a qualitative study using a semi-structured interview technique. The sample comprised of 29 emerging Black entrepreneurs working within the agriculture context in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa.

Findings

Upon analysis, the individual stories of Black emerging farmers as entrepreneurs showed the role of personal influences; the community; the quest for financial influence through economic sustenance; and socio-economic influences as playing a part in informing career entrance into agriculture amongst the Black emerging farmers.

Research limitations/implications

A limitation, familiar with qualitative research, concerns the use of a small sample size. However, a strength of the study is the in-depth focus, especially through interviews lasting a minimum of 1 h.

Practical implications

This study answers the call for a contemporary understanding of career processes in professions such as agriculture that have not received attention. This can be a practical basis to encourage more recent entrants into occupations and entrepreneurial pursuits that have been restricted. This study thus offers a practical basis for career counselling interventions in the agricultural space. This includes farmer training and development opportunities and provision of financial support to Black farmers.

Social implications

The findings offer insight into the role of a range of socially embedded factors and how they influence occupational aspirations and individuals fulfilling their entrepreneurial pursuits.

Originality/value

This study ignites focus into an under-researched area, especially on the African continent.
Effect of aromatherapy on the pain of arteriovenous fistula puncture in patients on hemodialysis: a systematic review
Authors: Yıldız Ayşegül , Şahan Seda
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This study aims to determine the effect of aromatherapy used in reducing the pain caused by fistula puncture in hemodialysis patients.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the effect of aromatherapy application on fistula puncture was analyzed and carried out by scanning the relevant literature. The literature review was conducted between August and October 2020. While reviewing the literature, the authors used “aromatherapy,” “pain,” “fistula,” “puncture,” “hemodialysis” keywords and various combinations of these; moreover, Google scientist, Pubmed, Cochrane, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Medline and Ovid databases and studies, which were conducted in the last 10 years were reviewed. As a result of the literature review, 1183 studies were reached and seven of them were included in the study by taking the inclusion criteria into account.

Findings

The randomized controlled studies are six studies and nonrandomized controlled experimental 1 study were added to the scope of the study and seven studies were included in the sample. In these studies, personal information forms developed by the researchers as data collection tools and the VAS scale, Numerical pain rating, the numeric rating scale were used to evaluate pain.

Practical implications

It has been determined that aromatherapy application in hemodialysis patients has positive effects on reducing pain due to puncture fistula intervention.

Originality/value

This study provides reduction or elimination of fistula needle insertion pain in hemodialysis patients.
PEEK-Barium sulfate composite for three-dimensional virtual reconstruction of a printed human in vitro model using CT
Authors: Li Weixin , Zheng Chen , Zhang Yicha
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to test the concept of a relatively low cost but biocompatible customized surgical guide printing method using a new composite material for the FDM process to support accurate virtual model reconstruction in CT.

Design/methodology/approach

Current additive manufacturing printed surgical guides have problems of scanning artifacts or low computed tomography (CT) values for virtual model reconstruction in CT-assisted surgical operations. These tools always face difficulties in precise positioning due to the effect of human soft tissues and manually made unstable landmarks. To solve this problem, this paper proposes a modified material, polyetheretherketone powder mixed with barium sulfate powder, for printing customized surgical guides with relatively low cost to support a synchronized scanning strategy, for the accurate reconstruction of human tissues and in vitro models.

Findings

A set of benchmarking experiments and clinical simulation cases were conducted. The results showed that the proposed solution can be used to print surgical guides to form stable and clear CT graphs for three-dimensional digital model reconstruction. Human tissues and in vitro models can be accurately reconstructed using clear CT graphs without any scanning artifacts or difficulties in image segmentation for virtual model reconstruction, thus facilitating accurate operation guidance and positioning.

Originality/value

This method has wide application potential for printing modular or customized surgical guides with low cost and reusability, especially for surgical operations using CT-assisted navigation systems in underdeveloped regions where medical device costs are a critical issue.
On the relation between knowledge management and university-industry-government collaboration in Brazilian national institutes of science and technology
Authors: Ribeiro Suzana Xavier , Nagano Marcelo Seido
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how knowledge management and university-industry-government collaboration – including the triple helix – relate with each other in influencing organizations’ performance. In the competitive environment nowadays, an organization’s ability to create and use knowledge becomes ever more essential in the search for sustainable competitive advantage, even leading to the search for new forms of inter-organizational arrangements.

Design/methodology/approach

The representatives of such collaborations selected for this study are the National Institutes of Science and Technology. The categorical content analysis technique was used for the qualitative analysis of the data.

Findings

The principal contribution was the proposal of an analytical model relating the knowledge management and triple helix theories and the proposed dimensions (namely, structural, relational, cognitive and the context), considering the peculiarities of the Brazilian context. The findings show that the organizational structure (structural) influences not only the relationship among members (relational) but also the flow of knowledge (cognitive), as well as how relational elements (collaborative culture, trust and leadership) facilitate knowledge sharing. Moreover, the context affects these three other dimensions. The main obstacles identified were cultural differences, bureaucracy and the socio-economic reality, while facilitators were the existence of technology parks and incubators, government incentives and geographical proximity between universities and industry.

Originality/value

This topic was chosen as there are few empirical studies that comprehensively relate the topics of knowledge management and university-industry-government cooperation focusing on the Brazilian context.
Air frying pretreatment and the recovery of lipophilic sinapates from the oil fraction of mustard samples
Authors: Fadairo Olamide , Nandasiri Ruchira , Alashi Adeola M. , Eskin N. A. Michael , Thiyam‐Höllander Usha
Published: August 2021

Roasting of mustard seeds prior to oil extraction is a well‐documented unit operation essential to produce canolol and other lipophilic sinapates. This study investigated the effectiveness of air frying as a seed roasting treatment operation for enhancing the recovery of lipophilic sinapates from various mustard samples and fractions/products. Air frying of seeds, powder, cake, bran, and flour from different mustard varieties was carried out at temperature‐time combinations of 160, 170, and 180°C for 5, 10, 15, and 20 min, respectively. Oil was extracted using the Soxtec method. Lipophilic sinapates were extracted from the oil using equal volumes of hexane to methanol 70% (v/v) and quantified by high performance liquid chromatography‐diode array detection (HPLC‐DAD). The total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity of the oils were also evaluated. The results showed a time‐temperature dependency for the recovery of major oil‐soluble sinapates in all mustard samples and fractions. The optimum air frying condition 180°C for 15 min produced the maximum yield of canolol as well as other unidentified oil‐soluble sinapates (retention time (RT)‐7.7, RT‐11.50, RT‐14.95, and RT‐16.24 min). The oil from lower grade yellow mustard seeds (LGYMS) roasted at 180°C for 20 mins specifically had the highest TPC (3402.22 ± 58.79 mg GAE/g oil), while LGYMS oils generally showed better antioxidant activities (2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric ion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and inhibition of linoleic acid oxidation) but were lower in metal ion chelating capacity. This information would be beneficial to the oil industry because air frying generated valuable canolol and other antioxidant lipophilic sinapates from mustard varieties and their fractions.

Practical Application

A major limitation in the application of natural extracts in vegetable oils is the poor lipophilic nature of phenolic compounds. This study employed a new thermal treatment (air frying) in the recovery of canolol and other lipophilic antioxidants. Such treatments can enrich mustard‐based ingredients with canolol and other lipophilic antioxidants for domestic and industrial applications.
Occupational radiation exposure to the lens of the eye in interventional radiology
Authors: Moriarty Heather K , Clements Warren , Phan Tuan , Wang Sherry , Goh Gerard S
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Cataract formation is a tissue reaction effected by radiation exposure. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the occupational exposure to the lens of the eye of interventional radiologists (IR's) and interventional radiology staff, with and without lead glasses.

Methods

Ethical approval was provided by the hospital research and ethics committee. A prospective cohort study was performed over 1 year, doses recorded, lifetime dose (estimated at working 5 days in angiography, for 30 years) was estimated and dose compared to current guidelines. Thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs; Landauer, Glenwood, USA) Hp(3) were placed on both the exterior and interior side of the personal lead glasses worn by three interventional radiologists and two radiographers. They were monitored during all procedures performed within 1 year. Lead glasses (AttenuTech® Microlite®, Florida, USA) with specifications were 0.75 mm lead equivalent front shield, and Side shield 0.3 mm Pb equivalent. A control TLD was placed in the storage location of the lead glasses when not in use. Yearly dose was measured and lifetime dose was calculated from the data obtained. Calculation of dose received per day(s) spent performing procedures for both annual and lifetime exposure was performed. In addition a record of occurrence of splashes on glasses was made after each case.

Results

Eye doses without protection were double the recommended limits for both annual and lifetime dose. For interventional radiologists working between 3 and 4 or more days in the lab per week, annual dose thresholds would be exceeded (20 mSv/year averaged over 5 years, no more than 50 mSv in 1 year). If interventional radiologists worked between 3 and 4 or more days in the lab, lifetime dose thresholds would be exceeded (500 mSv lifetime dose). Lead glasses reduced radiation exposure by an average of 79%. If lead glasses were worn no interventional radiologists would exceed annual or lifetime dose thresholds to the eyes even if working 5 days per week as the primary operator. Radiographers would not exceed annual or lifetime dose thresholds even without lead glasses. Splash incidents occurred for all interventional radiologists and one radiographer.

Conclusion

The use of lead glasses even in this small study resulted in a decreased dose of radiation to the lens of the eye. Regular use of radiation protection eyewear will reduce eye dose for primary proceduralists to well below yearly and lifetime thresholds.
The Balance of Infrastructure in the Indo‐Pacific: BRI, Institutional Balancing, and Quad’s Policy Choices
Authors: He Kai
Published: August 2021

This paper examines how the Quad countries, Australia, India, Japan, and the United States, have countervailed China’s Belt and Road Initiative in the Indo‐Pacific through various institutional efforts both individually and collectively. It argues that the existing approach of offering an alternative to China’s BRI will hardly be successful. Although the 2020 COVID‐19 pandemic has weakened China’s financial and economic capacities in sustaining and expanding its BRI projects, it is unlikely that China will give up the BRI under Xi Jinping’s leadership. This, however, creates an opportunity for the Quad countries to weigh in on the future BRI in the post‐COVID era. These Quad countries could consider employing an ‘inclusive institutional balancing’ strategy to constrain, change, and shape China’s BRI behaviour from the inside. Inclusive institutional balancing will be also a viable strategy for recipient countries to maximize their economic interests in the balance‐of‐infrastructure game among great powers in the Indo‐Pacific in the post‐COVID era.