bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A fourfold interpenetrating three-dimensional cadmium(II) coordination polymer: synthesis, crystal structure and physical properties
Authors: Wu Ji-Pei , Cheng Yi-Chuan , Lu Lei , Wang Jun , Qiao Shan-Bao
Published: May 2021

A novel three-dimensional CdIIcoordination framework, namely, poly[{μ-bis[4-(2-methylimidazol-1-yl)phenyl] ether-κ2N3:N3′}(μ-naphthalene-1,4-dicarboxylato-κ3O1:O4,O4′)cadmium(II)], [Cd(C12H6O4)(C20H18N4O)]nor [Cd(1,4-NDC)(BMIOPE)]n, where 1,4-H2NDC is naphthalene-1,4-dicarboxylic acid and BMIOPE is bis[4-(2-methylimidazol-1-yl)phenyl] ether, has been prepared and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. The compound displays a novel fourfold interpenetrating diamond-like network. In addition, it not only shows a strong fluorescence emission in the solid state, but also exhibits excellent photocatalytic activity for the degradation of methylene blue (MB) at room temperature.
Information-seeking behavior of female doctor shoppers: results from an interview study
Authors: Chen Shih-Chuan
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This study aims to explore the information-seeking behavior of female patients engaged in doctor shopping. An investigation was conducted on the following aspects: the reasons for doctor-shopping behavior (DSB), patients’ information needs and sources, patients’ use of the obtained information and the degree of satisfaction with the information collected.

Design/methodology/approach

In-depth interviews were conducted in this study. In total, 30 female participants who lived or worked in the Taipei metropolitan area, Taiwan, were recruited.

Findings

Dissatisfaction with treatment, confirmation of illness conditions, inconvenient treatment locations and hours and dissatisfaction with doctor’s attitude were the main reasons for DSB. Family members, friends, the internet and mass media were sources of information for participants when they sought second and successive doctors. In most cases, the degree of satisfaction toward the obtained information increased after each visit to a doctor during the doctor-shopping journey. However, not all participants shared information with doctors. The participants suggested that detailed explanations provided by doctors and better communication with doctors may reduce the occurrence of doctor shopping.

Originality/value

The findings of this study help medical personnel better understand DSB. The findings revealed the significance of information to patients and indicated that the information collected during doctor shopping is beneficial for patients.
Addressing the double burden of the COVID-19 and noncommunicable disease pandemics: a new global governance challenge
Authors: Collins Tea , Tello Juan , Van Hilten Menno , Mahy Lina , Banatvala Nicholas , Fones Guy , Akselrod Svetlana , Bull Fiona , Cieza Alarcos , Farrington Jill , Fisher Jack , Gonzalez Cristina , Guerra Jaimie , Hanna Fahmy , Jakab Zsuzsanna , Kulikov Alexey , Saeed Khalid , Abdel Latif Nisreen , Mikkelsen Bente , Pourghazian Nasim , Troisi Giuseppe , Willumsen Juana
Published: May 2021

Purpose

As the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) continues to spread across countries, it is becoming increasingly clear that the presence of pre-existing noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) dramatically increases the risk of aggravation in persons who contract the virus. The neglect in managing NCDs during emergencies may result in fatal consequences for individuals living with comorbidities. This paper aims to highlight the need for a paradigm shift in the governance of public health emergencies to simultaneously address NCD and noncommunicable disease (CD) pandemics while taking into account the needs of high-risk populations, underlying etiological factors, and the social, economic, and environmental determinants that are relevant for both CDs and NCDs.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviews the available global frameworks for pandemic preparedness to highlight the governance challenges of addressing the dual agenda of NCDs and CDs during a public health emergency. It proposes key strategies to strengthen multilevel governance in support of countries to better prepare for public health emergencies through the engagement of a wide range of stakeholders across sectors.

Findings

Addressing both CD and NCD pandemics during public health emergencies requires (1) a new framework that unites the narratives and overcomes service and system fragmentations; (2) a multisectoral and multistakeholder governance mechanism empowered and resourced to include stakeholders across sectors and (3) a prioritized research agenda to understand the political economy of pandemics, the role played by different political systems and actors and implementation challenges, and to identify combined strategies to address the converging agendas of CDs and NCDs.

Research limitations/implications

The article is based on the review of available published evidence.

Practical implications

The uptake of the strategies proposed will better prepare countries to respond to NCD and CD pandemics during public health emergencies.

Originality/value

The article is the first of its kind addressing the governance challenges of the dual pandemic of NCDs and CDs in emergencies.
Towards a more effective strategy to detect community-dwelling frail older adults: validation of risk factors
Authors: Van der Elst Michaël , Schoenmakers Birgitte , Dierckx Eva , De Roeck Ellen , van der Vorst Anne , Lambotte Deborah , De Lepeleire Jan , De Donder Liesbeth
Published: May 2021

Purpose

In the context of early detection of frail older people, prior research found several risk factors of multidimensional frailty. The current study aims to validate these risk factors.

Design/methodology/approach

Two data sets, Belgian Ageing Studies and Detection, Support and Care for older people: Prevention and Empowerment (BAS and D-SCOPE), in three Belgian municipalities (Ghent, Knokke-Heist and Thienen) were used and compared. The BAS data set (N = 1496) is a representative sample of community-dwelling older adults (60+), while the recruitment of the D-SCOPE sample (validation sample, N = 869) is based on risk factors (e.g. age, marital status, moved in the past 10 years). Frailty was measured with the comprehensive frailty assessment instrument (CFAI). The validity was examined by means of prevalence rates, distribution and the odds rates within both data sets.

Findings

The validation sample had an increase in the percentage of elderly who were mildly and highly frail for physical frailty (men: +17.0 percent point, women: +20.7 percent point), for psychological frailty (men: +13.4 percent point, women: +13.7 percent point), for social frailty (men: +24.8 percent point, women: +4.8 percent point) and environmental frailty (men: +24.2 percent point, women: +6.8 percent point). The present results indicate that the risk of being mildly or highly frail was higher in the validation sample in comparison with the BAS data.

Originality/value

The present study proved the validity of aforementioned risk factors. Selecting older people based on these risk factors proved to be an effective strategy for detecting frail older people.
An empirical analysis of suppliers' trade-off behaviour in adopting digital supply chain financing solutions
Authors: Banerjee Aneesh , Lücker Florian , Ries Jörg M.
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Reverse factoring (RF)–a form of supply chain finance (SCF)–is widely recognised as a win-win for both buyers and suppliers. Still, there is evidence that suppliers are often hesitant to join RF programmes initiated by their buyers. This study advances our understanding of how suppliers assess the importance of various attributes of a buyer's offer to join RF and discusses the role of programme configuration and digital technology in overcoming impediments to RF adoption.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a choice-based conjoint experimental design validated by experts, we isolate and manipulate the main attributes of a RF programme offer. This enables us to estimate the attributes' importance and to examine suppliers' trade-off behaviour. The authors complement the experimental study with content analysis of respondents' comments.

Findings

This study reveals the importance of behavioural considerations in RF adoption. The main findings are (1) suppliers are willing to reject offers that they perceive to be unfair even if these offers benefit them financially, (2) suppliers are willing to trade-off their financial benefit for non-financial reasons–most notably attributes that relate to trustworthiness of the buyer–and (3) suppliers expect technologies to increase transparency and reduce variability in trade processes.

Research limitations/implications

Non-financial attributes that influence supplier perception need to be considered in the programme configuration. Technologies that reduce information asymmetry, increase trust and transparency, increase the speed of execution and reduce process inefficiencies will have a positive impact on RF offer acceptance.

Originality/value

This research opens new lines of inquiry on the role of digital technologies in influencing behavioural operations management specifically suppliers' adoption of digital SCF solutions.
5G heterogeneous network (HetNets): a self-optimization technique for vertical handover management
Authors: Kiran Kotaru , D. Rajeswara Rao
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Vertical handover has been grown rapidly due to the mobility model improvements. These improvements are limited to certain circumstances and do not provide the support in the generic mobility, but offering vertical handover management in HetNets is very crucial and challenging. Therefore, this paper presents a vertical handoff management method using the effective network identification method.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents a vertical handoff management method using the effective network identification method. The handover triggering schemes are initially modeled to find the suitable position for starting handover using computed coverage area of the WLAN access point or cellular base station. Consequently, inappropriate networks are removed to determine the optimal network for performing the handover process. Accordingly, the network identification approach is introduced based on an adaptive particle-based Sailfish optimizer (APBSO). The APBSO is newly designed by incorporating self-adaptive particle swarm optimization (APSO) in Sailfish optimizer (SFO) and hence, modifying the update rule of the APBSO algorithm based on the location of the solutions in the past iterations. Also, the proposed APBSO is utilized for training deep-stacked autoencoder to choose the optimal weights. Several parameters, like end to end (E2E) delay, jitter, signal-to-interference-plus-noise ratio (SINR), packet loss, handover probability (HOP) are considered to find the best network.

Findings

The developed APBSO-based deep stacked autoencoder outperformed than other methods with a minimal delay of 11.37 ms, minimal HOP of 0.312, maximal stay time of 7.793 s and maximal throughput of 12.726 Mbps, respectively.

Originality/value

The network identification approach is introduced based on an APBSO. The APBSO is newly designed by incorporating self-APSO in SFO and hence, modifying the update rule of the APBSO algorithm based on the location of the solutions in the past iterations. Also, the proposed APBSO is used for training deep-stacked autoencoder to choose the optimal weights. Several parameters, like E2E delay, jitter, SINR, packet loss and HOP are considered to find the best network. The developed APBSO-based deep stacked autoencoder outperformed than other methods with minimal delay minimal HOP, maximal stay time and maximal throughput.
An evidence-based multilevel framework of talent management: a systematic review
Authors: Aljbour Amro , French Erica , Ali Muhammad
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Past research provides mixed evidence of the various elements of talent management. This review consolidates that research evidence to present a comprehensive evidence-based multilevel framework to inform practice and outline future research directions.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic review of 120 empirical studies, focusing on determinants, practices and/or outcomes of talent management practices, was undertaken.

Findings

Our multilevel framework suggests that talent management perspectives determine talent management practices which, in turn, impact organizational, group and employee outcomes. Most studies focused on identifying talent management perspectives or practices within organizations, while few studies investigated how these perspectives influence practices. The inclusive vs exclusive perspective has been the main focus of the research. However, findings indicate that a combination of perspectives generates a hybrid approach which leads to a range of talent management practices. The most studied practices involve talent development and the least studied involve talent engagement. In total, 67 studies focusing on outcomes of talent management identified organizational performance as the most conspicuous outcome of talent management.

Originality/value

This review contributes to the existing knowledge of talent management by consolidating the empirical evidence on determinants and outcomes of talent management practices and provides a comprehensive, integrated and multilevel framework to guide practice and future research.
Practical implications of cost of quality: a systematic literature review
Authors: Psomas Evangelos , Dimitrantzou Christina , Vouzas Fotios
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The present study focuses on the cost of quality (CoQ) based on which organizations can evaluate their quality-related activities in economic terms. The purpose of the study is to identify the CoQ practical implications as well as to group them into logical themes.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review (SLR) was conducted based on well-known academic publishers, such as Emerald Insight, Elsevier/ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, Taylor & Francis, Wiley and Scopus. Sixty-seven peer-reviewed journal articles in the field of CoQ were collected, which were published between 2010 and 2019. The “affinity diagram” was applied to group the practical implications identified into logical themes.

Findings

A plethora of CoQ practical implications were identified and grouped into the following meaningful themes: benefits of CoQ measurement, effects of CoQ, business sectors measuring CoQ, factors influencing CoQ measurement, CoQ elements, future research in CoQ and the role of government.

Research limitations/implications

The limited number of the publishers and keywords used to search for the articles of interest, as well as the subjectivity of grouping the large number of the practical implications into themes are the main limitations of the present study. These limitations constitute the basis upon which future literature review studies can be designed.

Practical implications

The present study by presenting analytically and in summary (through the themes revealed) the CoQ practical implications, provides all the respective available literature in a single study for the benefit of practitioners and academics. Thus, clear and straightforward guidelines are given to practitioners with regard to CoQ issues and academics with regard to research topics of high interest.

Originality/value

No previous SLR study focusing on analyzing the practical implications of CoQ has been published so far.
Effect of fibre length and composition on the tribological attributes of oil palm fibre polymeric composite: organic brake friction material
Authors: Abdollah Mohd Fadzli Bin , Amiruddin Hilmi , Nordin Mohamad Jabbar
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This study aims to scrutinise the impact of fibre length and its composition on the tribological attributes of oil palm fibre (OPF) polymeric composite as an alternative brake friction material.

Design/methodology/approach

Fabrication of the sample was conducted by using a hot-compression method. The tribological test was carried out by deploying a ball-on-disk tribometer. Analysis of the data was then done by using the Taguchi approach as well as analysis of variance.

Findings

The results indicated that all design variables (fibre composition, length and treatment) are not statistically significant, as all p-values are greater than 0.05. Remarkably, irrespective of the fibre treatment, the wear rate and coefficient of friction (COF) distribution suggested that a smaller fibre length with a high fibre composition might enhance the composite’s tribological performance with COF of 0.4 and wear rate below than 1 × 10–9 mm3/Nm. The predominant wear mechanisms were identified as micro-cracks, fine grooves and fibre debonding.

Research limitations/implications

In this study, all-inclusive scrutiny needs to be carried out for further exploration.

Originality/value

The main contribution and novelty of this study are opening a new perspective on the formulation of new substances from bio-based material (i.e. OPF) that possess superior tribological characteristics for friction-based applications.
Market anomalies in the Korean stock market
Authors: Han Minyeon , Lee Dong-Hyun , Kang Hyoung-Goo
Published: May 2021

This paper aims to replicate 148 anomalies and to examine whether the performance of the Korean market anomalies is statistically and economically significant. First, the authors observe that only 37.8% anomalies in the universe of the KOSPI and the KOSDAQ and value-weighted portfolios have t-statistics that exceed 1.96. When the authors impose a higher threshold (an absolute value of t-statistics of 2.78), only 27.7% of the 148 anomalies survive. Second, microcaps have large impacts. The results vary significantly depending on whether the sample included stocks in the KOSDAQ and whether value-weighted or equal-weighted portfolios are used. The results suggest that data mining explains large portion of abnormal returns. Any tactical asset allocation strategies based on market anomalies should be applied very cautiously.
CAPM verification using overnight and daytime returns
Authors: Kang Dae Jin , Kim Soo-Hyun
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The capital asset pricing model has failed to explain the effect of systematic risk (referred to as beta) on actual stock market returns. Accordingly, this study analyzes daily returns by splitting it into overnight and daytime returns. The study analysis empirically confirms a positive relationship between overnight returns and beta and a negative relation between daytime returns and beta. Furthermore, this paper aims to determine that empirical results are mostly the same with three different beta calculations, namely, daily, overnight and daytime returns. The study concludes that beta on overnight returns has the strongest explanatory power and is statistically significant.
Dividend reputation, dividend yield and stock returns in Korea
Authors: Kim Ryumi
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Although it has often been studied in finance research, the relationship between dividend yields and stock returns remains an unresolved issue, especially in the Korean stock market. When firms continue to pay non-decreasing dividends for three or five years, they may establish a dividend reputation, which could affect this relationship. The author found firms that pay more dividends, larger firms, older firms, more profitable firms, less leveraged firms, firms with less volatile returns, firms with foreign holdings of more than 5%, and firms with more concentrated ownership build dividend reputations. The author also found that the relationship between dividend yields and future stock returns depends on a firm’s dividend reputation. The evidence shows that when firms with higher yields have dividend reputations, they produce higher future returns, whereas there is no significant relationship between yields and returns for firms with no reputation. These results are inconsistent with the findings of studies that use developed market data. In addition, when larger firms with higher growth potential and firms with less concentrated ownership have dividend reputations, future returns are higher.
Illiquidity, duration and momentum profits: evidence from the Korean stock market
Authors: Bae Jaewan , Lee Changjun
Published: May 2021

This paper examines the role of illiquidity and duration factor in understanding the momentum profit in the Korean stock market. We find that the foreigner/institutional illiquidity factor explains the momentum effect. In addition, this paper finds that duration factor defined as the difference in returns of short-duration and long-duration stocks captures well the momentum profits. That is, a two-factor model with the market and duration factor performs much better than competing asset pricing models in explaining the momentum effect. Finally, when controlling for the duration factor, the explanatory power of the foreign/institutional illiquidity factor on the momentum profits disappears. In sum, our empirical finding indicates that the duration factor is the most important ingredient in understanding the momentum effect in the Korean stock market.
Sustainable mobile banking application: a text mining approach to explore critical success factors
Authors: Shankar Amit , Tiwari Aviral Kumar , Gupta Manish
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This study aims at identifying critical success factors of a sustainable mobile banking application using text mining approach.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 6,073 consumer reviews relating to a mobile banking application were collected and analyzed to meet the study objective. Latent Semantic Analysis (LSA) was done to identify the critical success factors of a sustainable mobile banking application.

Findings

The results indicated that privacy and security, navigation, customer support, convenience and efficiency are the key factors.

Research limitations/implications

The study findings enrich the mobile banking and sustainable service delivery channel literature.

Practical implications

The results are expected to benefit the bankers in delivering effective banking services through a mobile banking application.

Originality/value

Studies in the sustainability are few yet promising particularly the ones that use rigorous statistics suitable on thousands of data points to accomplish the study objectives.
“I feel I have no voice”: hospital doctors' workplace silence in Ireland
Authors: Creese Jennifer , Byrne John-Paul , Matthews Anne , McDermott Aoife M. , Conway Edel , Humphries Niamh
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Workplace silence impedes productivity, job satisfaction and retention, key issues for the hospital workforce worldwide. It can have a negative effect on patient outcomes and safety and human resources in healthcare organisations. This study aims to examine factors that influence workplace silence among hospital doctors in Ireland.

Design/methodology/approach

A national, cross-sectional, online survey of hospital doctors in Ireland was conducted in October–November 2019; 1,070 hospital doctors responded. This paper focuses on responses to the question “If you had concerns about your working conditions, would you raise them?”. In total, 227 hospital doctor respondents (25%) stated that they would not raise concerns about their working conditions. Qualitative thematic analysis was carried out on free-text responses to explore why these doctors choose to opt for silence regarding their working conditions.

Findings

Reputational risk, lack of energy and time, a perceived inability to effect change and cultural norms all discourage doctors from raising concerns about working conditions. Apathy arose as change to working conditions was perceived as highly unlikely. In turn, this had scope to lead to neglect and exit. Voice was seen as risky for some respondents, who feared that complaining could damage their career prospects and workplace relationships.

Originality/value

This study highlights the systemic, cultural and practical issues that pressure hospital doctors in Ireland to opt for silence around working conditions. It adds to the literature on workplace silence and voice within the medical profession and provides a framework for comparative analysis of doctors' silence and voice in other settings.
Estimating the capital assets of Laotian entrepreneurial families to compete in the garment industry
Authors: Daovisan Hanvedes , Chamaratana Thanapauge
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) has a socialist transition economy with a high growth rate of entrepreneurial families compared to other member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Economic Community. A significant challenge for entrepreneurial family growth includes vigorously seeking the capital assets necessary for their survival, due to ongoing competition. The purpose of this paper is to estimate the capital assets of Laotian entrepreneurial families require to be competitive in the garment industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted a multi-stage sampling technique, with a representative sample size of 350 Laotian entrepreneurial families. The approach was a structural schedule interview at participating families home addresses between August and December 2017. The study uses a three-stage least squares (3SLS) regression model to estimate whether capital assets have a positive association with competition and was organised with the assistance of Stata 16, a software programme.

Findings

The main findings show that, using the 3SLS regression model as the instrument, the values are almost identical and fit the data well. The model shows that capital assets (human, financial, social, physical and natural) have a positive and significant relationship with competition. The study suggests that financial capital is a major determinant of the capital assets to build competitive advantage.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first research to estimate the capital assets of Laotian entrepreneurial families in Vientiane, Lao PDR. The findings contribute to research about existing optimal capital assets that can be used to maintain long-term competitive advantage.
Systemic supervision, the last frontier: Towards a scale that measures systemic supervision
Authors: Butler Catherine , Rivett Mark , Hallack Zoe , Harris Madeline
Published: May 2021

This paper describes the development of a scale for measuring systemic supervision which is called the Systemic Supervision Rating Scale (the 3D‐SSRS). This scale was developed through a thematic synthesis of the systemic supervision literature, which included 137 papers on the subject. The scale was then subjected to a face validity investigation via a series of qualitative focus groups. These groups included both supervisors of supervision and students on an AFT Accredited Supervision training. Focus groups were held at the beginning and at the end of the course to understand how useful the 3D‐SSRS was to supervision practice. The 3D‐SSRS uses a seven‐point scale to rate supervision practice and prioritises qualitative comments in 11 dimensions, including the supervisory relationship, context of supervision, developmental stage of supervisee, development of systemic skills and thinking, and attention to power and difference.

Practitioner points

Systemic supervision draws on knowledges and skills unique to systemic practice within specific contexts.

A new Systemic Supervision Rating Scale (the 3D‐SSRS) has been developed for use in clinical and training contexts of supervision.

Initial investigations into the usefulness and face validity of the scale find it able to capture many of the unique aspects of systemic supervisory practice.

More research is needed into what makes for effective live supervision, perhaps unique to systemic supervisory practice, and supervision provided to groups.
Outdoor human decomposition in Sweden: A retrospective quantitative study of forensic‐taphonomic changes and postmortem interval in terrestrial and aquatic settings
Authors: Alfsdotter Clara , Petaros Anja
Published: May 2021

This paper presents a quantitative retrospective study of gross human decomposition in central and southeastern Sweden. The applicability of methods developed abroad for postmortem interval (PMI) estimation from decomposition morphology and temperature are is evaluated. Ninety‐four cases were analyzed (43 terrestrial and 51 aquatic) with a median PMI of 48 days. The results revealed differences in decomposition patterns between aquatic, surface, hanging, and buried remains. While partial saponification and desiccation occurred in cases of surface remains, complete skeletonization was observed in all cases with a PMI over two years. Aquatic skeletonization was slower due to extensive saponification in cases with PMI higher than one year. Formulae for assessing accumulated degree‐days (ADD) from the original methods did not fit the study material. However, a regression analysis demonstrated that 80% of decomposition variance in surface remains could be explained by ADD, suggesting that a geographically adapted equation holds promise for assessing PMI. In contrast, the model fit was poor for aquatic cases (43%). While this may be explained by problems in obtaining reliant aquatic temperature data or an insufficient scoring system, aquatic decomposition may be highly dependent on factors other than ADD alone. This study evaluates the applicability of current PMI methods on an outdoor sample from a previously unpublished region, and represents the first scientific publication of human outdoor decomposition patterns in Sweden. Suggestions for future research are provided, including that scoring methods should incorporate saponification to fit forensic taphonomy in Swedish environments.
Contemporary Ne estimation using temporally spaced data with linked loci
Authors: Hui Tin‐Yu J. , Brenas Jon Haël , Burt Austin
Published: May 2021

The contemporary effective population size is important in many disciplines including population genetics, conservation science and pest management. One of the most popular methods of estimating this quantity uses temporal changes in allele frequency due to genetic drift. A significant assumption of the existing methods is the independence among loci while constructing confidence intervals (CI), which restricts the types of species or genetic data applicable to the methods. Although genetic linkage does not bias point estimates, applying these methods to linked loci can yield unreliable CI that are far too narrow. We extend the current methods to enable the use of many linked loci to produce precise contemporary estimates, while preserving the targeted CI width and coverage. This is achieved by deriving the covariance of changes in allele frequency at linked loci in the face of recombination and sampling errors, such that the extra sampling variance due to between‐locus correlation is properly handled. Extensive simulations are used to verify the new method. We apply the method to two temporally spaced genomic data sets of Anopheles mosquitoes collected from a cluster of villages in Burkina Faso between 2012 and 2014. With over 33,000 linked loci considered, the estimate for Anopheles coluzzii is 9,242 (95% CI 5,702–24,282), and for Anopheles gambiae it is 4,826 (95% CI 3,602–7,353).
Extending approximate Bayesian computation with supervised machine learning to infer demographic history from genetic polymorphisms using DIYABC Random Forest
Authors: Collin François‐David , Durif Ghislain , Raynal Louis , Lombaert Eric , Gautier Mathieu , Vitalis Renaud , Marin Jean‐Michel , Estoup Arnaud
Published: May 2021

Simulation‐based methods such as approximate Bayesian computation (ABC) are well‐adapted to the analysis of complex scenarios of populations and species genetic history. In this context, supervised machine learning (SML) methods provide attractive statistical solutions to conduct efficient inferences about scenario choice and parameter estimation. The Random Forest methodology (RF) is a powerful ensemble of SML algorithms used for classification or regression problems. Random Forest allows conducting inferences at a low computational cost, without preliminary selection of the relevant components of the ABC summary statistics, and bypassing the derivation of ABC tolerance levels. We have implemented a set of RF algorithms to process inferences using simulated data sets generated from an extended version of the population genetic simulator implemented in DIYABC v2.1.0. The resulting computer package, named DIYABC Random Forest v1.0, integrates two functionalities into a user‐friendly interface: the simulation under custom evolutionary scenarios of different types of molecular data (microsatellites, DNA sequences or SNPs) and RF treatments including statistical tools to evaluate the power and accuracy of inferences. We illustrate the functionalities of DIYABC Random Forest v1.0 for both scenario choice and parameter estimation through the analysis of pseudo‐observed and real data sets corresponding to pool‐sequencing and individual‐sequencing SNP data sets. Because of the properties inherent to the implemented RF methods and the large feature vector (including various summary statistics and their linear combinations) available for SNP data, DIYABC Random Forest v1.0 can efficiently contribute to the analysis of large SNP data sets to make inferences about complex population genetic histories.
Large pulmonary sclerosing pneumocytoma in a young female: A rare lung tumor
Authors: Kang Do Kyun , Kang Min Kyun , Heo Woon , Hwang Youn‐Ho , Kim Ji Yeon
Published: May 2021

We report a case of a 28‐year‐old female who presented with a solid mass lesion in the right middle lobe (RML). A chest computed tomography (CT) scan showed a 3.5 cm sized round and solid mass between the medial and lateral segment of the RML. The patient underwent a percutaneous lung biopsy with CT scan guidance and pathological examination showed pulmonary sclerosing pneumocytoma. RML lobectomy was performed for definitive treatment. Here, we describe this rare lung disease which presented as a large homogeneous lesion. Pulmonary sclerosing pneumocytoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of solitary lung tumor, even if the patient is young.
Do Stronger Wise‐Thinking Dispositions Facilitate Auditors' Objective Evaluation of Evidence When Assessing and Addressing Fraud Risk?*
Authors: Brewster Billy E. , Johanns Alex J. , Peecher Mark E. , Solomon Ira
Published: May 2021

The objective evaluation of evidence is imperative for audit effectiveness and the proper exercise of professional skepticism. However, numerous studies suggest that auditors fail to evaluate evidence objectively when assessing or addressing the risk of material misstatement due to fraud. We develop theory to predict that auditors do evaluate evidence objectively but only when they have stronger wise‐thinking dispositions (WTDs), a construct that is new to the audit literature. We define WTDs as the tendency of individuals to naturally engage in the balanced revision of beliefs and doubts about target phenomena by thinking openly and reflectively about evidence. We report prediction‐consistent results from two experiments that measure the strength of participants' WTDs and manipulate whether the underlying evidence is less or more indicative of fraud. The experimental results also document that auditors vary considerably in WTD strength and collectively demonstrate the reproducibility of audit judgment‐quality benefits of stronger WTDs. We further validate the WTD construct in auditing using confirmatory bi‐factor analyses to show that it has one higher‐order general factor along with several subfactors. Overall, our theory and results advance the literature by identifying WTDs as a determinant of auditors' ability to objectively evaluate evidence. In addition, our findings have implications for standard setters and audit firms as quality control standards and audit working paper review processes might benefit from revisions that take into account that auditors do not objectively evaluate evidence unless they have stronger WTDs.
Conformity and Conservation: Evidence from Home Landscaping and Water Conservation
Authors: Burkhardt Jesse , Chan Nathan W. , Bollinger Bryan , Gillingham Kenneth T.
Published: May 2021

How do consumers value conformity, and what are the implications for conservation policy? In this article, we study conformity in homeowners’ landscaping choices—which have important consequences for water consumption—for housing parcels throughout a large arid American city. We use machine learning techniques to generate precise land cover classifications on each parcel from remote sensing imagery, allowing us to obtain hedonic estimates of the marginal value of conformity. Our work is unique as the first to study this behavioral phenomenon using rich observational data from a real‐world market. We then overlay these estimates on a theoretical model to characterize how conformity motives interact with conservation. We find that Pigouvian pricing is roughly half as effective in the presence of conformity, as our estimated conformity effects will countervail price effects. This work shows how behavioral phenomena, such as conformity, may have empirically relevant impacts on the effectiveness of standard conservation interventions.
Considerable mortality and morbidity in neonates born below 500 gram
Authors: Goeral Katharina , Fuiko Renate , Binder Julia , Lindtner Claudia , Jernej Raphaela , Rittenschober‐Boehm Judith , Klebermass‐Schrehof Katrin , Berger Angelika , Grill Agnes
Published: May 2021

Data evaluating mortality and morbidity in infants born ≤500 g are scarce and show wide variability. To support counselling and decision‐making, we analysed neurodevelopmental outcome in all neonates ≤500 g birth weight.

Retrospective analysis including preterm infants with a birth weight ≤500 g and a gestational age >22 weeks born at a single tertiary perinatal centre between 2010 and 2017.

Of 59 live births, 88% received standard care. Birth weight ranged from 318 to 500 g and gestational age from 23 to 29 weeks. 56% of neonates were born ≤3rd percentile and 42% of treated infants survived. Neurodevelopmental outcome was available in 91% of patients and was evaluated using Bayley Scales of Infant Development at two years. 50% showed a favourable mental development (normal or mild impairment), 75% a favourable motor development and 45% a favourable outcome in both outcome subcategories. When additionally considering visual and hearing disability and, or, cerebral palsy level ≥2 according to the Gross Motor Function Classification System 35% had a good neurodevelopmental outcome.

Survival rate was 37% for all live births and 42% for infants with standard care. More than one‐third of survivors showed no significant neurodevelopmental impairment at two years.
The road to zero nosocomial infections in neonates—a narrative review
Authors: Jansen Sophie J. , Lopriore Enrico , van der Beek Martha T. , Veldkamp Karin Ellen , Steggerda Sylke J. , Bekker Vincent
Published: May 2021

Aim

Nosocomial infections (NI) in neonates are associated with prolonged hospitalisation, adverse neurodevelopmental outcome and high mortality. Over the past decade, numerous prevention strategies have resulted in significant reductions in NI rates. In this review, we aim to provide an overview of current NI rates from large, geographically defined cohorts.

Methods

PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE and Cochrane Library were searched for evidence regarding epidemiology and prevention of NI in neonates. Extracted studies were synthesised in a narrative form with experiential reflection.

Results

Despite the abundance of geographically defined incidence proportions, an epidemiological overview of NI is difficult to provide, given the lack of consensus definition for neonatal NI and different baseline populations being compared. Successful prevention efforts have focused on implementing evidence‐based practices while eliminating outdated strategies. The most promising model for reduction in infection rates is based on quality improvement (QI) collaboratives and benchmarking, involving identification and implementation of best practices, selection of measurable outcomes and fostering a sense of community and transparency.

Conclusion

The preventative rather than curative approach forms the new paradigm for reducing the burden of neonatal infections. Despite progress achieved, continued work towards improved prevention practices is required in the strive towards zero NIs.
Extensive microbiological respiratory tract specimen characterization in critically ill COVID‐19 patients
Authors: Thomsen Kim , Pedersen Henrik Planck , Iversen Susanne , Wiese Lothar , Fuursted Kurt , Nielsen Henrik Vedel , Christensen Jens Jørgen Elmer , Nielsen Xiaohui Chen
Published: May 2021

Microbial co‐infections may contribute to the pulmonary deterioration in COVID‐19 patients needing intensive care treatment. The present study portrays the extent of co‐infections in COVID‐19 ICU patients. Conventional culture, molecular detections for atypical aetiologies, QiaStat‐Dx® respiratory panel V2 detecting 21 respiratory pathogens and ribosomal DNA genes 16S/18S amplicon‐based microbiome analyses were performed on respiratory samples from 34 COVID‐19 patients admitted to the ICU. Potential pathogens were detected in seven patients (21%) by culturing, in four patients (12%) by microbiome analysis and in one patient (3%) by respiratory panel. Among 20 patients receiving antibiotics prior to ICU admission, fungi (3 Candida albicans, 1 C. tropicalis, 1 C. dubliniensis) were cultured in 5 (15%) endotracheal aspirates. Among 14 patients who were antibiotic‐naive at ICU admission, two patients (6%) had bacterial respiratory pathogens (Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pseudopneumoniae) cultured in their endotracheal aspirates. Microbiome analysis recognized four potential respiratory pathogens (3 Haemophilus influenza, 1 Fusobacterium necrophorum) isolated in samples from four other patients (12%). QiaStat‐Dx® respiratory panel V2 detected adenovirus in one patient (3%). The prevalence of pulmonary microbial co‐infections is modest among COVID‐19 patients upon admission to ICU. Microbiome analysis complements conventional microbial diagnostics in characterization of respiratory co‐infections.
Medical students as junior adverse drug event managers facilitating reporting of ADRs
Authors: Reumerman Michael O. , Tichelaar Jelle , Richir Milan C. , van Agtmael Michiel A.
Published: May 2021

The Junior Adverse Drug Event Manager (J‐ADEM) team is a multifaceted intervention focusing on real‐life education for medical students that has been shown to assist healthcare professionals in managing and reporting suspected adverse drug reactions (ADRs) to the Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb. The aim of this study was to quantify and describe the ADRs reported by the J‐ADEM team and to determine the clinical potential of this approach. The J‐ADEM team consisted of medical students tasked with managing and reporting ADRs in hospitalized patients. All ADRs screened and reported by J‐ADEM team were recorded anonymously, and categorized and analysed descriptively. From August 2018 through January 2020, 209 patients on two wards in an academic hospital were screened for ADR events. The J‐ADEM team reported 101 ADRs. Although most ADRs (67%) were first identified by healthcare professionals and then reported by the J‐ADEM team, the team also reported an additional 33 not previously identified serious ADRs. In 10% of all reported ADRs, the J‐ADEM team helped optimize ADR treatment. The ADR reports were largely well‐documented (78%), and ADRs were classified as type A (66%), had a moderate or severe severity (85%) and were predominantly avoidable reactions (69%). This study shows that medical students are able to screen patients for ADRs, can identify previously undetected ADRs and can help optimize ADR management. They significantly increased (by 300%) the number of ADR reports submitted, showing that the J‐ADEM team can make a valuable clinical contribution to hospital care.
Constructionist co‐design: A dual approach to curriculum and professional development
Authors: Kelter Jacob , Peel Amanda , Bain Connor , Anton Gabriella , Dabholkar Sugat , Horn Michael S. , Wilensky Uri
Published: May 2021

This paper reports on the first iteration of the Computational Thinking Summer Institute, a month‐long programme in which high school teachers co‐designed computationally enhanced mathematics and science curricula with researchers. The co‐design process itself was a constructionist learning experience for teachers resulting in constructionist curricula to be used in their own classrooms. We present three case studies to illustrate different ways teachers and researchers divided the labour of co‐design and the implications of these different co‐design styles for teacher learning and classroom enactment. Specifically, some teachers programmed their own computational tools, while others helped to conceptualise them but left the construction to their co‐design partners. Results indicate that constructionist co‐design is a promising dual approach to curriculum and professional development but that sometimes these two goals are in tension. Most teachers gained considerable confidence and skills in computational thinking, but sometimes the pressure to finish curriculum development during the institute led teachers to leave construction of computational tools to their co‐design partners, limiting their own opportunities for computational learning.

Practitioner notes

What is already known about this topic?

Computational tools can support constructionist science and math learning by making powerful ideas tangible.

Supporting teachers to learn computational thinking and to use constructionist pedagogies is challenging.

What this paper adds?

Constructionist co‐design is a promising approach to simultaneously support curriculum development and professional development, but there are tensions to navigate in trying to accomplish both goals simultaneously.

Implications for practice and/or policy

Designers of professional development should consider constructionist co‐design as an approach but should be aware of potential tensions and prepare for them.