bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blended learning and augmented employability: a multi-stakeholder perspective of the micro-credentialing ecosystem in higher education
Authors: Sharma Himani , Jain Varsha , Mogaji Emmanuel , Babbilid Anantha S.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Proponents of micro-credentials envision them as vehicles for upskilling or re-skilling individuals. The study examines how integrating micro-credentials in the higher education ecosystem enhances employability. It aims to offer insights from the perspective of stakeholders who may benefit from these credentials at an institutional or individual level.

Design/methodology/approach

Online in-depth interviews are conducted with 65 participants from India, Nigeria, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom to explore how micro-credentials can be a valuable addition to the higher education ecosystem. A multi-stakeholder approach is adopted to collect data.

Findings

The analysis highlights two possible methods of integrating micro-credentials into the higher education ecosystem. First, micro-credentials-driven courses can be offered using a blended approach that provides a flexible learning path. Second, there is also the possibility of wide-scale integration of micro-credentials as an outcome of standalone online programs. However, the effectiveness of such programs is driven by enablers like student profiles, standardization and the dynamics of the labor market. Finally, the study stipulates that micro-credentials can enhance employability.

Originality/value

The study's findings suggest that, for successful integration of micro-credentials, an operational understanding of micro-credentials, their enablers and strategic deliberation are critical in higher education. Institutions must identify the determinants, address technological limitations and select a suitable delivery mode to accelerate integration. However, micro-credentials can augment employability, considering the increasing emphasis on lifelong learning. An overview of the findings is presented through a comprehensive framework.
Analyzing shopping cart abandonment enablers: an ISM and MICMAC approach
Authors: Gupta Sanjay , Raj Sahil , Garg Aashish , Gupta Swati
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The primary purpose of this study is to examine the factors leading to shopping cart abandonment and construct a model depicting interrelationship among them using interpretive structural modeling (ISM) and Matriced Impact Croises Multiplication Appliquee an un Classement (MICMAC).

Design/methodology/approach

Initially, 20 factors leading to shopping cart abandonment were extracted through a systematic literature review and expert opinions. Fifteen factors were finalized using the importance index and CIMTC method, for which consistency has been checked in SPSS software through a statistical reliability test. Finally, ISM and MICMAC approach is used to develop a model depicting the contextual relationship among finalized factors of shopping cart abandonment.

Findings

The ISM model depicts a technical glitch (SC8), cash on delivery not available (SC4), bad checkout interface (SC9), just browsing (SC11), and lack of physical examination (SC12) are drivers or independent factors. Additionally, four quadrants have been formulated in MICMAC analysis based on their dependency and driving power. This facilitates technical managers of e-commerce companies to focus more on factors leading to shopping cart abandonment according to their dependency and driving power.

Research limitations/implications

Taking an expert’s opinion as a base may affect the results of the study due to biases based on subjectivity.

Practical implications

This study’s outcomes would accommodate practitioners, researchers, and multinational or national companies to indulge in e-commerce to anticipate factors restricting the general public from online shopping.

Originality/value

For the successful running of an e-commerce business and to retain the confidence of e-shoppers, every e-commerce company must make a strategy for controlling factors leading to shopping cart abandonment at the initial stage. So, this paper attempts to highlight the main factors leading to shopping cart abandonment and interrelate them using ISM and MICMAC approaches. It provides a clear path to technical heads, researchers, and consultants for handling these shopping cart abandonment factors.
Slip flow and thermal characteristics in gas thrust bearings with rough surfaces
Authors: Xiong Cheng , Xu Bo , Chen Zhenqian
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the rarefaction effects on flow and thermal performances of an equivalent sand-grain roughness model for aerodynamic thrust bearing.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, a model of gas lubrication thrust bearing was established by modifying the wall roughness and considering rarefaction effect. The flow and lubrication characteristics of gas film were discussed based on the equivalent sand roughness model and rarefaction effect.

Findings

The boundary slip and the surface roughness effect lead to a decrease in gas film pressure and temperature, with a maximum decrease of 39.2% and 8.4%, respectively. The vortex effect present in the gas film is closely linked to the gas film’s pressure. Slip flow decreases the vortex effect, and an increase in roughness results in the development of slip flow. The increase of roughness leads to a decrease for the static and thermal characteristics.

Originality/value

This work uses the rarefaction effect and the equivalent sand roughness model to investigate the lubrication characteristics of gas thrust bearing. The results help to guide the selection of the surface roughness of rotor and bearing, so as to fully control the rarefaction effect and make use of it.
Disentangling e-commerce gamification affordances on recommendation acceptances from a perceived value perspective
Authors: Jia Furong , Yu Jie
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Gamification is a strategic approach employed by practitioners to foster meaningful engagement and enhance the acceptance of recommendations. Gamification affordances (e.g. achievement, self-expression, interaction, and cooperation) catalyze significant psychological processes in consumers, leading to behavioral changes. Despite its application, a gap remains in understanding how these gamification affordances in e-commerce contexts impact customers' perceived values and drive recommendation acceptances.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing affordance theory and perceived value theory as our foundation, we have crafted a comprehensive framework that addresses the multifaceted nature of e-commerce gamification, thereby unifying the fragmented knowledge in this area. We implemented a quantitative research design to empirically test the proposed model.

Findings

The research reveals that the four principal affordances of gamification – achievement, self-expression, interaction, and cooperation – significantly enrich consumer values across hedonic, utilitarian, and social dimensions. This enrichment facilitates an increased propensity for accepting recommendations.

Originality/value

This study provides a novel lens through which to view the influence of gamification affordances on recommendation acceptance within gamified e-commerce settings. It delineates the effects of each affordance on consumers' perceived value and highlights the pivotal affordances that shape gamified e-commerce experiences. These insights yield actionable strategies for practitioners aiming to refine e-commerce gamification designs and cultivate more engaging consumer interactions.
Do cybersecurity threats and risks have an impact on the adoption of digital banking? A systematic literature review
Authors: Cele Natile Nonhlanhla , Kwenda Sheila
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to identify cybersecurity threats that hinder the adoption of digital banking and provide sustainable strategies to combat cybersecurity risks in the banking industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Systematic literature review guidelines were used to conduct a quantitative synthesis of empirical evidence regarding the impact of cybersecurity threats and risks on the adoption of digital banking.

Findings

A total of 84 studies were initially examined, and after applying the selection and eligibility criteria for this systematic review, 58 studies were included. These selected articles consistently identified identity theft, malware attacks, phishing and vishing as significant cybersecurity threats that hinder the adoption of digital banking.

Originality/value

With the country’s banking sector being new in this area, this study contributes to the scant literature on cyber security, which is mostly in need due to the myriad breaches that the industry has already suffered thus far.
Online customer experience in Indian digital banks impacting continuous intention usage: Generation Y and Z perspective
Authors: Bhatnagr Puneett , Rajesh Anupama
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to conceptualise a customer-centric model based on an online customer experience (OCE) construct, mediated by e-loyalty (EL) and e-trust (ET), to improve the continuous usage intention (CUI) of Indian digital banks from Generation Y and Z perspectives.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used an online survey method to gather data from a sample of 466 digital banking users, from which usable questionnaires were obtained. The obtained data were subjected to thorough analysis using PLS-SEM to further study the research hypotheses.

Findings

The main factors that determine digital banks’ OCE are perceived enjoyment, e-service quality, information quality and e-convenience. Additionally, relevant constructs were evaluated using an importance-performance map analysis.

Research limitations/implications

This study used convenience sampling for the urban population using digital banking; therefore, the outcome may be generalised to a limited extent. It would be valuable to imitate studies in other countries to strengthen digital banking further.

Originality/value

There is a lack of research on digital banking and OCE in India; thus, this study helps rectify this issue while providing valuable insights. This study differs from others in that it examines the connections between OCE, EL, ET and the bottom line of financial institutions, using these factors as dependent variables instead of traditional measures.
Influence of memorable tourism experience on attitude towards pilgrimage: a moderated-mediation model with memorable religious experience and religiosity
Authors: Bhandari Harveen , Mittal Amit , Arora Meenal
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The study investigates the mediated moderation impact of Memorable Religious Experience (MRE) and Religiosity (REL) on the relationship between Memorable Tourism Experience (MTE) and Attitude towards Pilgrimage (ATT) finally driving Recommend Intention (RCI) of visitors to a religious site. It suggests visitors' incentive variable religiosity can influence their decision to recommend visiting a religious destination.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses a quantitative cross-sectional approach wherein a self-administered survey was used for data collection from 223 pilgrims who visited a popular pilgrimage site. Partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed for analysis.

Findings

The results showed that MTE has a significant influence on ATT which further influences RCI (a dimension of behavioral intention-BI) of visitors towards a religious destination. Further, MRE mediates the relationship between MTE and ATT. Nevertheless, REL illustrated a significant moderation influence on the relationship between MRE and ATT, further verifying the mediated moderation impact of MRE and REL in the model.

Practical implications

Recommendation of existing customers is one of the most powerful indicators of customer loyalty and usually leads to revisit. The research provides destination managers/tourism planners of pilgrimage sites to formulate appropriate marketing strategies to develop RCI and sustainable branding.

Originality/value

This study adds to the empirical studies conducted on REL by constructing a composite picture of the memorable tourism experience within a pilgrimage tourism context. The uniqueness lies in the attempt to investigate the mediated moderation impact of MRE and REL using a symmetric (PLS-SEM) approach.
Technology acceptance model in halal industries: a systematic literature review and research agenda
Authors: Noor Nurhafihz
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The continued relevance of technologies in halal industries requires managers to understand the factors contributing to such technologies’ acceptance. The technology acceptance model (TAM) is dominant in the literature that predicts user acceptance and behaviour towards technology. Despite the model’s significance, there has yet to be a systematic review of studies featuring halal sectors that use TAM. The purpose of this study is to systematically review the existing literature on TAM in halal industries to understand the research trends as well as TAM modifications and research opportunities in halal industries.

Design/methodology/approach

Guided by the preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis protocol, a framework-based review using the theories, contexts, characteristics and methods (TCCM) framework was conducted. The Scopus and Web of Science databases were used to retrieve English journal articles that investigated TAM in the context of halal markets. In total, 44 eligible articles were reviewed in terms of the developments and extensions of TAM in their studies across the halal industries.

Findings

The first study related to the use of TAM in the context of halal industries was published in 2014. The most prominent halal industry in the review, which used TAM, was Islamic finance. Indonesia was the leading economy in halal studies using TAM. Perceived usefulness was found to be a more significant factor than perceived ease of use for technology acceptance in TAM studies on halal industries. The significance of religiosity on TAM was inconsistent. Most research was done using quantitative surveys with consumers as the target sample.

Research limitations/implications

The studies in this review are based on the Scopus and Web of Science databases, which may be perceived as a study limitation. This study also only considered English journal articles and research in which the focus was on the use of TAM in halal industries rather than general industries with Muslim consumers.

Practical implications

Halal industries will continue to rely on technology for the provision of goods and services. With the rise of emerging technological innovations, this review will provide managers with an appreciation of technology acceptance across different contexts. Researchers can use the results of this review to guide future studies and contribute toward the development of this research area.

Originality/value

This review contributes to the Islamic marketing literature by being the first to comprehensively review the TAM model in the context of halal industries using the TCCM framework-based review approach. A research agenda is proposed to advance research on technology acceptance and TAM in halal industries.
A scenario-based game theory integrating with a location-allocation-routing problem in a pre- and post-disaster humanitarian logistics network under uncertainty
Authors: Beiki Ashkezari Ali , Zokaee Mahsa , Rabbani Erfan , Rabbani Masoud , Aghsami Amir
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Pre-positioning and distributing relief items are important parts of disaster management as it simultaneously considers activities from both pre- and post-disaster stages. This study aims to address this problem with a novel mathematical model.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research, a bi-objective mixed-integer linear programming model is developed to tackle pre-positioning and distributing relief items, and it is formulated as an integrated location-allocation-routing problem with uncertain parameters. The humanitarian supply chain consists of relief facilities (RFs) and demand points (DPs). Perishable and imperishable relief commodities (RCs), different types of vehicles, different transportation modes, a time window for delivering perishable commodities and the occurrence of unmet demand are considered. A scenario-based game theory is applied for purchasing RCs from different suppliers and an integrated best-worst method-technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution technique is implemented to determine the importance of DPs. The proposed model is used to solve several random test problems for verification, and to validate the model, Iran’s flood in 2019 is investigated as a case study for which useful managerial insights are provided.

Findings

Managers can effectively adjust their preferences towards response time and total cost of the network and use sensitivity analysis results in their decisions.

Originality/value

The model locates RFs, allocates DPs to RFs in the pre-disaster stage, and determines the routing of RCs from RFs to DPs in the post-disaster stage with respect to minimizing total costs and response time of the humanitarian logistics network.
Unearthing narratives: an ethnographic lens on the organizational tapestry of massive iron ore mining operations
Authors: Khatua Sonali , Dash Manoranjan , Mishra Padma Charan
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Ores and minerals are extracted from the earth’s crust depending on the type of deposit. Iron ore mines come under massive deposit patterns and have their own mine development and life cycles. This study aims to depict the development and life cycle of large open-pit iron ore mines and the intertwined organizational design of the departments/sections operated within the industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Primary data were collected on the site by participant observation, in-depth interviews of the field staff and executives, and field notes. Secondary data were collected from the literature review to compare and cite similar or previous studies on each mining activity. Finally, interactions were conducted with academic experts and top field executives to validate the findings. An organizational ethnography methodology was employed to study and analyse four large-scale iron ore mines of India’s largest iron-producing state, Odisha, from January to April 2023.

Findings

Six stages were observed for development and life cycle, and the operations have been depicted in a schematic diagram for ease of understanding. The intertwined functioning of organizational set-up is also discovered.

Originality/value

The paper will benefit entrepreneurs, mining and geology students, new recruits, and professionals in allied services linked to large iron ore mines. It offers valuable insights for knowledge enhancement, operational manual preparation and further research endeavours.
County-level prioritization for managing the Covid-19 pandemic: a systematic unsupervised learning approach
Authors: Hettiarachchi Charitha Sasika , Sun Nanfei , Le Trang Minh Quynh , Saleem Naveed
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The COVID-19 pandemic has posed many challenges in almost all sectors around the globe. Because of the pandemic, government entities responsible for managing health-care resources face challenges in managing and distributing their limited and valuable health resources. In addition, severe outbreaks may occur in a small or large geographical area. Therefore, county-level preparation is crucial for officials and organizations who manage such disease outbreaks. However, most COVID-19-related research projects have focused on either state- or country-level. Only a few studies have considered county-level preparations, such as identifying high-risk counties of a particular state to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to prioritize counties in a state based on their COVID-19-related risks to manage the COVID outbreak effectively.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research, the authors use a systematic hybrid approach that uses a clustering technique to group counties that share similar COVID conditions and use a multi-criteria decision-making approach – the analytic hierarchy process – to rank clusters with respect to the severity of the pandemic. The clustering was performed using two methods, k-means and fuzzy c-means, but only one of them was used at a time during the experiment.

Findings

The results of this study indicate that the proposed approach can effectively identify and rank the most vulnerable counties in a particular state. Hence, state health resources managing entities can identify counties in desperate need of more attention before they allocate their resources and better prepare those counties before another surge.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to use both an unsupervised learning approach and the analytic hierarchy process to identify and rank state counties in accordance with the severity of COVID-19.
Optimization of salt ready-mix for instant fried noodles production using response surface methodology
Authors: Malik Manisha , Tomar Devyani , Singh Narpinder , Khatkar B.S.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to provide a salt ready-mix to instant fried noodles manufacturers.

Design/methodology/approach

Response surface methodology was used to get optimized salt ready-mix based on carbonate salt, disodium phosphate, tripotassium phospahte, sodium hexametaphosphate and sodium chloride. Peak viscosity of flour and yellowness, cooking loss and hardness of noodles were considered as response factors for finding optimized salt formulation.

Findings

The results showed that salts have an important role in governing quality of noodles. Optimum levels of five independent variables of salts, namely, carbonate salt (1:1 mixture of sodium to potassium carbonate), disodium phosphate, sodium hexametaphosphate, tripotassium phosphate and sodium chloride were 0.64%, 0.29%, 0.25%, 0.46% and 0.78% on flour weight basis, respectively.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to assess the effect of different combinations of different salts on the quality of noodles. These findings will also benefit noodle manufacturers, assisting in production of superior quality noodles.
A study of the decentralised administrative arrangements between the central and local governments in Bangladesh during the COVID-19 pandemic crisis
Authors: Al Farid Uddin Khandakar , Rahman Abdur , Islam Md. Robiul , Parvin Mohashina
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Decentralised administrative arrangements and the active function of local government organisations are essential to tackle crisis effectively. Using Bangladesh as a case study, this paper examines the central and local government administrative arrangements during COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applies qualitative content analysis and interviews to explore the local government’s role in Bangladesh’s COVID-19 management by interviews of 18 participants including government officials, experts, non-government organisations (NGOs) representatives, and the general public. This paper also analysed academic papers, policy documents and other publicly available documents, including newspaper reports.

Findings

The Constitution of Bangladesh intensified the active participation of local government in each administrative unit through decentralised administrative management. This paper however reveals that the administrative arrangement during the COVID-19 pandemic in Bangladesh was primarily a centrally led system. The local government was not sufficiently involved, nor had it integrated into the planning and coordination process. This indicated the absence of active decentralised administration.

Originality/value

This study fills the research gap of the administrative pattern and local relations in COVID-19 management by exploring the local government’s role during the catastrophic situation and highlights the importance of decentralised administrative actions in managing the crisis.
Rural American farmers’ perceptions of crime, safety and policing
Authors: Peterson Jessica Rene , Ward Kyle C. , Lawrie Michaela
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose is to understand how farmers in rural American communities perceive crime, safety and policing.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey, adapted from a version used in Victoria, Australia (Harkness, 2017), was modified and administered through social media and farming organizations throughout three US states. The survey covers topics relating to crime and victimization, feelings of safety or fear in rural areas, policing practices and trust in police in their areas and any crime prevention practices that respondents use.

Findings

With nearly 1,200 respondents and four scales investigated, results indicate that those respondents with more favorable views of law enforcement and the criminal justice system had the highest fear of crime, those who had been prior victims of crime had a higher fear of crime than those who did not, those with higher community involvement had higher fear of crime, and those from Nebraska compared to Colorado had higher fear of crime.

Research limitations/implications

A better understanding of the agricultural community’s perceptions of crime, safety and policing will aid law enforcement in community policing efforts and in farm crime investigation and prevention. Limitations of the study, including the distribution method will be discussed.

Originality/value

Farm- and agriculture-related crimes have serious financial and emotional consequences for producers and local economies. Stereotypes about rural areas being “safe with no crime” are still prevalent. Rural American farmers’ perceptions of crime, safety and police are largely absent from the literature and are important for improving farm crime prevention.
Using extrusion-based 3D printing technology to investigate the impact of changing print conditions on tensile characteristics
Authors: Viswanath Vidyut Raghu , Hiremath Shivashankar , Chiniwar Dundesh S.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study, most recent advancements in threedimensional (3D) printing have focused on the fabrication of components. It is typical to use different print settings, such as raster angle, infill and orientation to improve the 3D component qualities while fabricating the sample using a 3D printer. However, the influence of these factors on the characteristics of the 3D parts has not been well explored. Owing to the effect of the different print parameters in fused deposition modeling (FDM) technology, it is necessary to evaluate the strength of the parts manufactured using 3D printing technology.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the effect of three print parameters − raster angle, build orientation and infill − on the tensile characteristics of 3D-printed components made of three distinct materials − acrylonitrile styrene acrylate (ASA), polycarbonate ABS (PC-ABS) and ULTEM-9085 − was investigated. A variety of test items were created using a commercially accessible 3D printer in various configurations, including raster angle (0°, 45°), (0°, 90°), (45°, −45°), (45°, 90°), infill density (solid, sparse, sparse double dense) and orientation (flat, on-edge).

Findings

The outcome shows that variations in tensile strength and force are brought on by the effects of various printing conditions. In all possible combinations of the print settings, ULTEM 9085 material has a higher tensile strength than ASA and PC-ABS materials. ULTEM 9085 material’s on-edge orientation, sparse infill, and raster angle of (0°, −45°) resulted in the greatest overall tensile strength of 73.72 MPa. The highest load-bearing strength of ULTEM material was attained with the same procedure, measuring at 2,932 N. The tensile strength of the materials is higher in the on-edge orientation than in the flat orientation. The tensile strength of all three materials is highest for solid infill with a flat orientation and a raster angle of (45°, −45°). All three materials show higher tensile strength with a raster angle of (45°, −45°) compared to other angles. The sparse double-dense material promotes stronger tensile properties than sparse infill. Thus, the strength of additive components is influenced by the combination of selected print parameters. As a result, these factors interact with one another to produce a high-quality product.

Originality/value

The outcomes of this study can serve as a reference point for researchers, manufacturers and users of 3D-printed polymer material (PC-ABS, ASA, ULTEM 9085) components seeking to optimize FDM printing parameters for tensile strength and/or identify materials suitable for intended tensile characteristics.
Review of development trends in smart shoe applications
Authors: Raji Rafiu King , Han Jian Lin , Li Zixing , Gong Lihua
Published: April 2024

Purpose

At the moment, in terms of both research and commercial products, smart shoe technology and applications seem not to attract the same magnitude of attention compared to smart garments and other smart wearables such as wrist watches and wrist bands. The purpose of this study is to fill this knowledge gap by discussing issues regarding smart shoe sensing technologies, smart shoe sensor placements, factors that affect sensor placements and finally the areas of smart shoe applications.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a review of relevant literature, this study first and foremost attempts to explain what constitutes a smart shoe and subsequently discusses the current trends in smart shoe applications. Discussed in this study are relevant sensing technologies, sensor placement and areas of smart shoe applications.

Findings

This study outlined 13 important areas of smart shoe applications. It also uncovered that majority of smart shoe functionality are physical activity tracking, health rehabilitation and ambulation assistance for the blind. Also highlighted in this review are some of the bottlenecks of smart shoe development.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first comprehensive review paper focused on smart shoe applications, and therefore serves as an apt reference for researchers within the field of smart footwear.
Validation of the Index for Facial Angiofibromas: Data analysis from a randomized controlled trial of sirolimus gel treatment in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex
Authors: Hamada Izumi , Yukutake Yoshinori , Morita Yusuke , Ishikawa Norifumi , Shimizu Kenji , Wataya‐Kaneda Mari
Published: April 2024

The Index for Facial Angiofibromas (IFA), a novel scoring system for angiofibromas, has been validated in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). The objective of this analysis was to further validate the IFA using data from a clinical trial of topical sirolimus in patients with TSC. This was an analysis of photographs from a Phase III trial conducted in Japan (NCT02635789). Patients (n = 62) were randomized 1:1 to receive sirolimus or placebo gel for 12 weeks. Changes in angiofibromas were independently assessed using the primary composite endpoint, the Facial Angiofibroma Severity Index (FASI), and the IFA. Thresholds for a clinically meaningful change in IFA score were evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. The IFA scores had good‐to‐excellent inter‐assessor reliability, very high intra‐assessor reliability, and could be used to evaluate the distribution of disease severity at baseline. High correlations were observed between the categorized change from baseline in IFA scores and the primary composite endpoint (Kendall's coefficient of concordance, W = 0.8655, p < 0.0001), and between the change from baseline in IFA and FASI scores (Kendall's coefficient of concordance, W = 0.745, p < 0.0001). By ROC analysis, an optimal IFA cut‐off point of 1.667 was determined to distinguish patients with markedly improved or improved angiofibromas from those with slightly improved or unchanged angiofibromas (area under the curve 0.937) as determined by the primary composite endpoint. The IFA score is potentially clinically useful because of its high validity and reliability. A decrease in score from baseline of ≥1.667 may be considered clinically meaningful.
Serum levels of AGGF1: Potential association with cutaneous and cardiopulmonary involvements in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Takahashi Takuya , Takahashi Takehiro , Ikawa Tetsuya , Terui Hitoshi , Takahashi Toshiya , Segawa Yuichiro , Sumida Hayakazu , Yoshizaki Ayumi , Sato Shinichi , Asano Yoshihide
Published: April 2024

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune disease characterized by vasculopathy, aberrant immune activation, and extensive tissue fibrosis of the skin and internal organs. Because of the complicated nature of its pathogenesis, the underlying mechanisms of SSc remain incompletely understood. Angiogenic factor with a G‐patch domain and a Forkhead‐associated domain 1 (AGGF1) is a critical factor in angiogenesis expressed on vascular endothelial cells, associated with inflammatory and fibrotic responses. To elucidate the possible implication of AGGF1 in SSc pathogenesis, we investigated the association between serum AGGF1 levels and clinical manifestations in SSc patients. We conducted a cross‐sectional analysis of AGGF1 levels in sera from 60 SSc patients and 19 healthy controls with enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Serum AGGF1 levels in SSc patients were significantly higher than those in healthy individuals. In particular, diffuse cutaneous SSc patients with shorter disease duration had higher levels compared to those with longer disease duration and limited cutaneous SSc patients. Patients with higher serum AGGF1 levels had a higher incidence of digital ulcers, higher modified Rodnan Skin Scores (mRSS), elevated serum Krebs von den Lungen‐6 (KL‐6) levels, C‐reactive protein levels, and right ventricular systolic pressures (RVSP) on the echocardiogram, whereas they had reduced percentage of vital capacity (%VC) and percentage of diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (%DLCO) in pulmonary functional tests. In line, serum AGGF1 levels were significantly correlated with mRSS, serum KL‐6 and surfactant protein D levels, RVSP, and %DLCO. These results uncovered notable correlations between serum AGGF1 levels and key cutaneous and vascular involvements in SSc, suggesting potential roles of AGGF1 in SSc pathogenesis.
Faecal Standing Crop with real time correction using scat detection dogs to estimate population density
Authors: Morini Rúbia Ferreira dos Santos , Grotta‐Neto Francisco , Duarte José Maurício Barbanti
Published: April 2024

Population density is fundamental information for assessing the conservation status of species and support management and conservation actions for in situ populations, but is unknown for many forest species due to their difficulty in detection. The Faecal Standing Crop (FSC) method using detection dogs is an alternative for cryptic or elusive species. An intrinsic difficulty of FSC is the ability to find faecal samples in the field and to estimate the probability of which faeces detection is influenced by degradation due to climatic conditions. Our goal was to propose a concurrent FSC parameter estimation using a scat detection dog under different climatic conditions and apply those parameters in a wild deer population.

Ten faecal samples of grey brocket deer (Subulo gouazoubira) were placed weekly in a transect (24 × 1440 m) in both dry and wet seasons (12 weeks each). A scat detection dog was then employed to find experimental faecal samples to determine the FSC parameters that were subsequently used with naturally occurring faecal samples (also dog‐detected) to estimate population density.

The oldest dog found samples were 21 (Dry) and seven (Wet) days after placement, resulting in dog efficiency of 22.5% (Dry) and 30% (Wet). Adjusting the model to account for efficiency and scat durability, we estimated similar, seasonal, densities of 4.51 individuals km−2 (SD = 2.21, Dry) and 5.37 individuals km−2 (SD = 3.71, Wet).

Synthesis and applications: Our results demonstrate that our concurrent methodology corrected the effects of weather and habitat on FSC parameters thereby allowing for accurate population density estimation. Additionally, this method can provide reasonably precise density estimates with a logistically feasible sample size, as demonstrated by simulation. Following our recommendations, this method allows a reliable estimate of population density because it incorporates any influence of study area, dog ability and climate in faecal sample detection, providing fundamental information for the conservation of many cryptic and elusive species.
Associations between physical activity, sedentary behaviour and cognitive domain performance of people living with mild cognitive impairment in the community
Authors: Hopkins Jane , McVeigh Joanne , Hill Keith , Ellis Kathryn A. , Jacques Angela , Burton Elissa
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Physical activity is known to positively influence cognitive performance. For adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), the relationship between physical activity levels and cognitive performance is unknown. This cross‐sectional study aimed to determine if cognitive performance [as measured by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)] of people living in the community with MCI is associated with their physical activity levels or sedentary behaviour.

Methods

ActivPAL™ accelerometers were used to objectively measure physical activity and sedentary behaviour for seven full days. Cognitive performance was measured using the MoCA.

Consumer and Community Involvement

No involvement other than as research participants

Results

Eighty‐two participants from the Balance on the Brain randomised controlled trial were included. Most participants were retired (88%), with 33 (40%) reporting a fall in the last year. The median MoCA score was 24 (IQR 22–26). Participants achieved a mean of 6296 (±2420) steps per day and were sedentary for 10.6 (±2) hours per day. The only physical activity outcomes that had a fair, positive correlation were moderate‐ to vigorous‐intensity physical activity measures of total stepping time and total number of steps (with a cadence of ≥100 steps/min) with the orientation MoCA domain score (r(82) = 0.36, p ≤ 0.001 and r(82) = 0.37, p ≤ 0.001, respectively). Higher total sedentary time had a weak, positive correlation with better visuospatial/executive performance (r(82) = 0.23, p = 0.041). The orientation outcomes remained significant when analysed in an adjusted logistic regression model.

Conclusion

This study found that performance in the MoCA orientation domain had a fair‐positive correlation with moderate‐intensity physical activity (i.e., stepping time and step count with a cadence of ≥100 steps/min) as measured by a thigh‐worn accelerometer for community‐dwelling older adults with MCI. When considering the relationship between cognitive domains and sedentary behaviour, consideration may be needed regarding whether cognitive enhancing activities (such as crosswords and other brain games) are being performed, which may confound this relationship. Further investigation is required to confirm these results.
Timepoint for return to occupations post‐burn injury using the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM)
Authors: Kittrick Andrea Mc , Jones Amber , Morgan Lachlan T.
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) was implemented at a state‐wide burns service to ensure compliance with current best evidence as outlined by the Australian and New Zealand Burns Association ‘burn trauma rehabilitation: allied health practice guidelines’‐ Chapter 7 Measuring Post‐Burn Recovery, as a standard outcome measure for individuals with an admission time greater than 24 h. The primary aim of this study is to determine if individuals have a minimal important change in performance and satisfaction with activities that were identified as problematic on the COPM prior to their acute discharge.

Previous research confirmed the feasibility of using the COPM in the acute burn ward and recommended the most appropriate timepoint for re‐measurement be confirmed, which is the secondary objective of this study. The benefits of confirming this timepoint include ensuring efficient use of clinicians' time without compromising the accuracy of the assessment and ensuring effective translation of the guidelines' recommendation.

Methods

A prospective longitudinal study was undertaken, where all individuals who previously completed a COPM prior to acute discharge were sought to complete a re‐assessment while accessing outpatient services. Time frames for re‐assessment were open. Only individuals who were actively receiving occupational therapy outpatient services were included. COPM assessments were completed in person where possible, particularly for participants who required an interpreter, with phone and video calls also used when needed.

Results

A total of 37 participants were included, with the timeframe between initial and post‐COPM assessment ranging from 2 to 643 days. Outcomes plateaued at approximately 12 months (365 days) post‐initial measurement (prior to discharge from acute ward). The most common occupational performance goals that participants identified were returning to work, sport, and driving. 86.5% of participants increased their satisfaction with these activities. The results of this study demonstrate improvements across the domains of performance and satisfaction occur for individuals with burns at approximately 3 months and 12 months post‐injury.

Conclusion

Based on this study, it is suggested that when using the COPM assessment in a tertiary burn setting, re‐measurement be completed no earlier than 3 months and later than 12 months from burn injury, or upon discharge from the service. The findings from this study will be translated into clinical practice at this facility.
Notes on Verbal Aspect in Three Vedic Prose Narratives
Authors: Hoose Anahita Gwenllian
Published: April 2024

This article summarises the synchronic system of verbal aspect manifest in three Middle Vedic prose narrative texts, investigating the use of various morphological categories with past reference (especially the imperfect, perfect and aorist). I show that the imperfect and perfect are both compatible with multiple aspectual readings (perfective, imperfective and anterior); in the terminology of Dahl (2010), both may have neutral aspect. The aorist is largely restricted to anterior readings but can be perfective. Additionally, I consider the diachronic context of this system, outlining differences from the earlier one visible in the Early Vedic of the Rigveda and discussing the probable diachronic trajectory connecting the two. After commenting on the possibility of characterising the synchronic system within the alternative framework of Altshuler (2014), which lacks the category of neutral aspect, I conclude with notes on the use of the sentential particles ha, nu and vai in the text samples. The first of these seems to be associated with perfective aspect, while the latter two are both associated with anterior aspect.
Prosodic Change in Breton: The Loss of Stressed Clitics1
Authors: Kennard Holly J.
Published: April 2024

Most dialects of Breton have largely penultimate stress, and are also said to exhibit stress on certain clitics when they precede monosyllabic content words. However, data suggest that this prosodic process may not be maintained consistently by modern Breton speakers. This study explores the nature of clitic stress in Breton and investigates its potential loss by examining the indefinite article, low numerals and the adverb re ‘too’ in three pre‐existing corpora: two linguistic atlases and a more recent online repository of Breton recordings. The findings show that the loss of stressed clitics is greater in south‐eastern Brittany, and more advanced for the indefinite article than for other contexts. It is suggested that this is due to the fact that the process does not occur with the definite article, and that the clitics are being reanalysed such that they have a less cohering relationship with their hosts. Given the unstable nature of Breton as an endangered language with a high proportion of older speakers, it is unclear whether this ongoing language change will continue along the same path, or if revitalisation is likely either to halt or accelerate it.
COVID‐19 pandemic as a crisis for higher education institutions? Challenges and turning points based on teachers' perspectives
Authors: Schütte Patricia M. , Kretschmer Saskia , Van der Sypt Gert
Published: April 2024

During COVID‐19 pandemic, higher education institutions (HEIs) implemented new types of working, teaching and communicating quickly. Thereby, faculty staff faced multiple challenges in professional regards. They were in a ‘sandwich position’ between the HEIs and the students and they presumably took on the role of ‘on site’ crisis managers who often had to embed the situation communicatively. Against this background, this article addresses the questions: What challenges for HEIs revealed during the COVID‐19 pandemic from the teachers’ perspective? And: To what extent can assumptions about turning points in the higher education (HE) system be derived from this? Answers are based on the triangulation of a literature review and data from an online survey. The results point to human, organizational and technical challenges, and opportunities in terms of communication, teaching, resilience and crisis management. At the end, some assumptions are derived that can be used for further research.
Determinants of obstructed labour and associated outcomes in referral hospitals in Nigeria
Authors: Adelaiye Samuel , Wanonyi Ishaya , Adanikin Abiodun , Mairiga Abdulkarim , Kadas Abubakar , Morrupa Joel , Lavin Tina , Lamara Abubakar , Yahaya Ibrahim , Tukur Jamilu , Chama Calvin
Published: April 2024

Objective

To estimate the prevalence of obstructed labour, associated risk factors and outcomes across a network of referral hospitals in Nigeria.

Design

Retrospective observational study.

Setting

A total of 54 referral‐level hospitals across the six geopolitical regions of Nigeria.

Population

Pregnant women who were diagnosed with obstructed labour during childbirth and subsequently underwent an emergency caesarean section between 1 September 2019 and 31 August 2020.

Methods

Secondary analysis of routine maternity care data sets. Random‐effects multivariable logistic regression was used to ascertain the factors associated with obstructed labour.

Main outcome measures

Risk factors for obstructed labour and related postpartum complications, including intrapartum stillbirth, maternal death, uterine rupture, postpartum haemorrhage and sepsis.

Results

Obstructed labour was diagnosed in 1186 (1.7%) women. Among these women, 31 (2.6%) cases resulted in maternal death and 199 (16.8%) cases resulted in postpartum complications. Women under 20 years of age (OR 2.03, 95% CI 1.50–2.75), who lacked formal education (OR 1.88, 95% CI 1.55–2.30), were unemployed (OR 1.94, 95% CI 1.57–2.41), were nulliparous (OR 2.11, 95% CI 1.83–2.43), did not receive antenatal care (OR 3.34, 95% CI 2.53–4.41) or received antenatal care in an informal healthcare setting (OR 8.18, 95% CI 4.41–15.14) were more likely to experience obstructed labour. Ineffective referral systems were identified as a major contributor to maternal death.

Conclusions

Modifiable factors contributing to the prevalence of obstructed labour and associated adverse outcomes in Nigeria can be addressed through targeted policies and clinical interventions.