bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Collaborative Methods Foster Better Data: Insights From a Suicide Data Linkage Project in North Carolina
Authors: Geary Shana , Di Bona Vito L. , Proescholdbell Scott
Published: May 2022

The linking of surveillance data sets has increasingly become an essential public health activity. We compared a traditional method in North Carolina (NC) with a newer collaborative approach when linking Hospital Discharge Data (HDD) and NC Violent Death Reporting System (NC-VDRS) data. We found the collaborative approach to be superior, enabling wider ownership combined with subject matter expertise the traditional method lacked. We used Link Plus and Match*Pro software for linkage, which had similar matching results. However, the collaborative process using Match*Pro resulted in fewer matches requiring review and enabled better case adjudication and collaboration between partners. Of the 1361 unique suicides that matched to HDD, 44% (n = 599) had multiple prior hospitalizations. Public health needs to innovate and enable partners to foster solutions when traditional methods are dated and result in less reliable data. The process outlined builds consensus, increases trust, and ultimately saves time.
Aesthetic Limitations in Direct-to-Implant Prepectoral Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Safran Tyler , Al-Badarin Faris , Al-Halabi Becher , Viezel-Mathieu Alex , Dionisopoulos Tassos
Published: May 2022

Background:

Prepectoral direct-to-implant reconstruction has become an alternative to staged subpectoral expander-based reconstruction. Although the surgical safety of this technique has been shown, aesthetic limitations have not been well-described. This article reports aesthetic limitations and elucidates risk factors that may predispose patients toward developing unfavorable outcomes following direct-to-implant prepectoral breast reconstruction.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review was performed, identifying patients who underwent prepectoral, direct-to-implant breast reconstruction from June of 2016 to June of 2019. Aesthetic limitations assessed included capsular contracture, rippling, implant malposition, and implant flipping.

Results:

Two hundred twenty-four consecutive women representing 334 breasts underwent immediate reconstruction performed by a single plastic surgeon. A midlateral incision was used in 185 breasts (55.4 percent) and the Wise pattern in 95 breasts (28.8 percent). The mean follow-up time was 30.5 months (45.3 to 18.3 months). Significant capsular contracture (grade 3 to 4) was noted in 27 breasts (8.1 percent), implant flipping in four breasts (1.2 percent), implant displacement in five breasts (1.5 percent), major rippling in nine breasts (2.7 percent), and minor rippling in 17 breasts (5.1 percent). The use of acellular dermal matrix had no significant effect on the aesthetic outcomes. In comparing breasts with postmastectomy radiation, there was a significant difference in the presence of minor rippling and capsular contracture (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

This cohort represents the largest, single-surgeon, direct-to-implant prepectoral database in the literature. This report shows that aesthetic limitations were comparable to those seen with other forms of reconstruction. Complications did not differ in terms of acellular dermal matrix use. Certain factors can predispose patients to developing unfavorable aesthetic outcomes.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic, IV.
Sexually Transmitted Infections Among Men and Transgender Women Using HIV Pre-exposure Prophylaxis in a Large Integrated Health System—A Cohort Study
Authors: Hechter Rulin C. , Bruxvoort Katia J. , Zhou Hui , Towner William J. , Contreras Richard , Schumacher Christina M. , Grant Deborah L. , Jones Joyce
Published: May 2022

Background:

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are common in people using pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). We examined risk and factors associated with STIs in a cohort of PrEP users in an integrated health system in the United States.

Setting:

The Kaiser Permanente Southern California is a large integrated health system that provides comprehensive medical services to approximately 4.7 million demographically diverse members.

Methods:

We identified men and transgender women initiating PrEP between January 1, 2014, and June 1, 2018, and followed through December 31, 2018. Demographic and clinical factors potentially associated with the risk of bacterial STIs during PrEP use were evaluated using Poisson regression models.

Results:

Among 5042 individuals tested for STIs with 7198 person‐years of follow-up, 1709 (33.9%) had at least one new STI. The estimated incidence of STIs was 48.3 per 100 person-years, and the most common STI was rectal chlamydia. Most repeat STIs (61.4%) occurred <180 days apart. In a multivariable analysis, an history of STIs in the prior 6 months through 7 days after the PrEP initiation was the most prominent risk factor of STIs during PrEP use (adjusted risk ratio: 1.78, 95% confidence intervals: 1.65 to 1.93). Other risk factors included younger age (<35 years), being Hispanic, and having a history of alcohol use disorder or drug use disorder.

Conclusions:

Quarterly STI testing and targeted intervention to mitigate STI risk are warranted for young and racial minority PrEP users, particularly for those with prior history of STIs and substance use disorders.
Prospects for probiotics in social bees
Authors: Motta Erick V. S. , Powell J. Elijah , Leonard Sean P. , Moran Nancy A.
Published: May 2022

Social corbiculate bees are major pollinators. They have characteristic bacterial microbiomes associated with their hives and their guts. In honeybees and bumblebees, worker guts contain a microbiome composed of distinctive bacterial taxa shown to benefit hosts. These benefits include stimulating immune and metabolic pathways, digesting or detoxifying food, and defending against pathogens and parasites. Stressors including toxins and poor nutrition disrupt the microbiome and increase susceptibility to opportunistic pathogens. Administering probiotic bacterial strains may improve the health of individual bees and of hives, and several commercial probiotics are available for bees. However, evidence for probiotic benefits is lacking or mixed. Most bacterial species used in commercial probiotics are not native to bee guts. We present new experimental results showing that cultured strains of native bee gut bacteria colonize robustly while bacteria in a commercial probiotic do not establish in bee guts. A defined community of native bee gut bacteria resembles unperturbed native gut communities in its activation of genes for immunity and metabolism in worker bees. Although many questions remain unanswered, the development of natural probiotics for honeybees, or for commercially managed bumblebees, is a promising direction for protecting the health of managed bee colonies.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Natural processes influencing pollinator health: from chemistry to landscapes’.
Pollinator nutrition and its role in merging the dual objectives of pollinator health and optimal crop production
Authors: Jones Jeremy , Rader Romina
Published: May 2022

Bee and non-bee insect pollinators play an integral role in the quantity and quality of production for many food crops, yet there is growing evidence that nutritional challenges to pollinators in agricultural landscapes are an important factor in the reduction of pollinator populations worldwide. Schemes to enhance crop pollinator health have historically focused on floral resource plantings aimed at increasing pollinator abundance and diversity by providing more foraging opportunities for bees. These efforts have demonstrated that improvements in bee diversity and abundance are achievable; however, goals of increasing crop pollination outcomes via these interventions are not consistently met. To support pollinator health and crop pollination outcomes in tandem, habitat enhancements must be tailored to meet the life-history needs of specific crop pollinators, including non-bees. This will require greater understanding of the nutritional demands of these taxa together with the supply of floral and non-floral food resources and how these interact in cropping environments. Understanding the mechanisms underlying crop pollination and pollinator health in unison across a range of taxa is clearly a win–win for industry and conservation, yet achievement of these goals will require new knowledge and novel, targeted methods.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Natural processes influencing pollinator health: from chemistry to landscapes’.
Occupational differences in SARS-CoV-2 infection: Analysis of the UK ONS Coronavirus (COVID-19) Infection Survey
Authors: Rhodes Sarah , Wilkinson Jack , Pearce Neil , Mueller Will , Cherrie Mark , Stocking Katie , Gittins Matthew , Katikireddi Srinivasa Vittal , Van Tongeren Martie
Published: May 2022

Background

Considerable concern remains about how occupational SARS-CoV-2 risk has evolved during the COVID-19 pandemic. We aimed to ascertain which occupations had the greatest risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and explore how relative differences varied over the pandemic.

Methods

Analysis of cohort data from the UK Office of National Statistics Coronavirus (COVID-19) Infection Survey from April 2020 to November 2021. This survey is designed to be representative of the UK population and uses regular PCR testing. Cox and multilevel logistic regression to compare SARS-CoV-2 infection between occupational/sector groups, overall and by four time periods with interactions, adjusted for age, sex, ethnicity, deprivation, region, household size, urban/rural neighbourhood and current health conditions.

Results

Based on 3,910,311 observations from 312,304 working age adults, elevated risks of infection can be seen overall for social care (HR 1.14; 95% CI 1.04 to 1.24), education (HR 1.31; 95% CI 1.23 to 1.39), bus and coach drivers (1.43; 95% CI 1.03 to 1.97) and police and protective services (HR 1.45; 95% CI 1.29 to 1.62) when compared to non-essential workers. By time period, relative differences were more pronounced early in the pandemic. For healthcare elevated odds in the early waves switched to a reduction in the later stages. Education saw raises after the initial lockdown and this has persisted. Adjustment for covariates made very little difference to effect estimates.

Conclusions

Elevated risks among healthcare workers have diminished over time but education workers have had persistently higher risks. Long-term mitigation measures in certain workplaces may be warranted.

What is already known on this topic

Some occupational groups have observed increased rates of disease and mortality relating to COVID-19.

What this study adds

Relative differences between occupational groups have varied during different stages of the COVID-19 pandemic with risks for healthcare workers diminishing over time and workers in the education sector seeing persistent elevated risks.

How this study might affect research, practice or policy

Increased long term mitigation such as ventilation should be considered in sectors with a persistent elevated risk. It is important for workplace policy to be responsive to evolving pandemic risks.
Maternal depressive symptoms, neonatal white matter, and toddler social-emotional development
Authors: Lautarescu Alexandra , Bonthrone Alexandra F. , Pietsch Maximilian , Batalle Dafnis , Cordero-Grande Lucilio , Tournier J-Donald , Christiaens Daan , Hajnal Joseph V , Chew Andrew , Falconer Shona , Nosarti Chiara , Victor Suresh , Craig Michael C. , Edwards A. David , Counsell Serena J.
Published: May 2022

Maternal prenatal depression is associated with increased likelihood of neurodevelopmental and psychiatric conditions in offspring. The relationship between maternal depression and offspring outcome may be mediated by in-utero changes in brain development. Recent advances in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have enabled in vivo investigations of neonatal brains, minimising the effect of postnatal influences. The aim of this study was to examine associations between maternal prenatal depressive symptoms, infant white matter, and toddler behaviour. 413 mother-infant dyads enrolled in the developing Human Connectome Project. Mothers completed the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (median = 5, range = 0-28, n=52 scores ≥ 11). Infants (n=223 male) (median gestational age at birth=40 weeks, range 32.14-42.29) underwent MRI (median postmenstrual age at scan=41.29 weeks, range 36.57-44.71). Fixel-based fibre metrics (mean fibre density, fibre cross- section, and fibre density modulated by cross-section) were calculated from diffusion imaging data in the left and right uncinate fasciculi and cingulum bundle. For n=311, internalizing and externalizing behaviour, and social-emotional abilities were reported at a median corrected age of 18 months (range 17-24). Statistical analysis used multiple linear regression and mediation analysis with bootstrapping. Maternal depressive symptoms were positively associated with infant fibre density in the left (B =.0005, p=.003, q=.027) and right (B=.0006, p=.003, q=.027) uncinate fasciculus, with the left uncinate fasciculus, in turn, positively associated with social-emotional abilities in toddlerhood (B =105.70, p=.0007, q=.004). In a mediation analysis, higher maternal depressive symptoms predicted toddler social-emotional difficulties (B=.342, t(307)=3.003, p=.003), but this relationship was not mediated by fibre density in the left uncinate fasciculus (Sobel test p=.143, bootstrapped indirect effect=.035, SE=.02, 95%CI [-.01,.08]). There was no evidence of an association between maternal depressive and cingulum fibre properties. These findings suggest that maternal perinatal depressive symptoms are associated with neonatal uncinate fasciculi microstructure, but not fibre bundle size, and toddler behaviour.
ABA-induced SA accumulation causes higher susceptibility inB. junceaas compared to tolerant genotypes againstA. brassicae
Authors: Dixit Shikha , Grover Anita , Pushkar Suchitra , Singh Shashi Bala
Published: May 2022

Alternaria brassicae,a necrotrophic pathogen causes Alternaria blight in members of the Brassicaceae family. An extensive yield-oriented breeding strategy has rendered Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) susceptible to many fungal pathogens however, Alternaria blight is one of the most pressing challenges of all because it causes almost 40-60% yield loss. Variable degree of tolerance is reported in wild relatives ofB. juncea, Sinapis alba(White mustard) andcamelina sativa(False flax) have been reported to exhibit moderate and high tolerance respectively againstA. brassicae. Phytohormones are the essential regulator of the intricate mechanism of plant defence response. The hormones salicylic acid (SA) and jasmonic acid (JA) have been widely studied and recognized as important regulators of plant immune response. In the last decade, research has pointed out that other hormones like abscisic acid (ABA) also participate equally in plant defence. However, the role of ABA in defence responses and its cross-talk with SA and JA has not been fully understood in terms ofBrassica-A. brassicaesystem. In this investigation, three genotypes-B. juncea,S. albaandC. sativawere selected and their response to exogenous application of SA, JA and ABA and their combination withA. brassicaewere studied. Disease assessment, gene expression analysis and quantitative estimation of phytohormones showed that theB. junceaexhibited a weak JA-mediated defence response againstA. brassicaeand synergy between SA-ABA shifted the signalling mechanism to SA-mediated response leading to susceptibility inB. juncea. Tolerant genotypes,S. albaandC. sativaexhibited a robust JA-mediated response againstA. brassicaeand JA-ABA was found antagonistic inBrassica-A. brassicaephyto-pathosystem.
Reduced motor planning underlying inhibition of prepotent responses in children with ADHD
Authors: Valori Irene , Longa Letizia Della , Angeli Alessia , Marfia Gustavo , Farroni Teresa
Published: May 2022

To flexibly regulate their behavior, children’s ability to inhibit prepotent responses arises from cognitive and motor mechanisms that have an intertwined developmental trajectory. Subtle differences in planning and control can contribute to impulsive behaviors, which are common in Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and difficult to be assessed and trained. We adapted a Go/No-Go task and employed a portable, low-cost kinematic sensor to explore the different strategies used by children with ADHD or typical development to provide a prepotent response (dominant condition) or inhibit the prepotent and select an alternative one (non-dominant condition). Although no group difference emerged on accuracy levels, the kinematic analysis of correct responses revealed that, unlike neurotypical children, those with ADHD did not show increased motor planning in non-dominant compared to dominant trials. Despite motor control could have compensated and led to good accuracy in our simple task, this strategy might make inhibition harder in more naturalistic situations that involve complex actions. Combining cognitive and kinematic measures is a potential innovative method for assessment and intervention of subtle differences in executive processes such as inhibition, going deeper than is possible based on behavioral outcomes alone.

Significance Statement

This study proposes an innovative method that integrates kinematic measurement with neuropsychological evaluation, thus providing information on the planning and control mechanisms underlying behavioral outcomes. It is applicable to the study not only of inhibition but more generally of executive functions, which are the basis of the ability of children and adults to achieve goal-directed actions. The use of a wearable motion sensor ensures good applicability in research, clinical evaluation, and intervention.
Vestibular contribution to path integration deficits in ‘at-genetic-risk’ for Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Coughlan Gillian , Plumb William , Zhukovsky Peter , Aung Min Hane , Hornberger Michael
Published: May 2022

Path integration changes may precede a clinical presentation of Alzheimer’s disease by several years. Studies to date have focused on how grid cell changes affect path integration in preclinical AD. However, vestibular input is also critical for intact path integration. Here, we developed a naturalistic vestibular task that requires individuals to manually point an iPad device in the direction of their starting point following rotational movement, without any visual cues. Vestibular features were derived from the sensor data using feature selection. Completing machine learning models illustrate that the vestibular features accurately classified Apolipoprotein E ε3ε4 carriers and ε3ε3 carrier controls (mean age 62.7 years), with 65% to 79% accuracy depending on task trial or algorithm. Our results demonstrate the cross-sectional role of the vestibular system in Alzheimer’s disease risk carriers and may explain individual phenotypic heterogeneity in path integration within this population
Histone deacetylase 6 inhibition promotes microtubule acetylation and facilitates autophagosome-lysosome fusion in dystrophin-deficient mdx mice
Authors: Agrawal Akanksha , Clayton Erin L. , Cavazos Courtney L. , Clayton Benjamin A. , Rodney George G.
Published: May 2022

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is a severe X-linked genetic disorder. Defective autophagy and disorganized microtubule network contributes to DMD pathogenesis, yet the mechanisms by which microtubule alterations regulate autophagy remain elusive. We show decreased acetylated α-tubulin and enhanced histone deacetylase (HDAC6) expression in mdx mice. Pharmacological inhibition of HDAC6 increases tubulin acetylation and enhances Q-SNARE complex formation, leading to improved autophagosome-lysosome fusion. HDAC6 inhibition reduces apoptosis, inflammation, muscle damage and prevents contraction induced force loss. HDAC6 inhibition restores peroxiredoxin (PrxII) by increasing its acetylation and protecting it from hyper-oxidation, hence modulating intracellular redox status in mdx mice. Genetic inhibition of Nox2 activity in mdx mice promotes autophagosome maturation. Our data highlight that autophagy is differentially regulated by redox and acetylation in mdx mice. By restoring tubulin acetylation HDAC6 inhibition enhances autophagy, ameliorates the dystrophic phenotype and improves muscle function, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for treating DMD.
Non-invasive assessment of normal and impaired iron homeostasis in living human brains
Authors: Filo Shir , Shaharabani Rona , Hanin Daniel Bar , Adam Masha , Ben-David Eliel , Schoffman Hanan , Margalit Nevo , Habib Naomi , Shahar Tal , Mezer Aviv
Published: May 2022

Strict iron regulation is essential for normal brain function. The iron homeostasis, determined by the milieu of available iron compounds, is impaired in aging, neurodegenerative diseases and cancer. However, non-invasive assessment of different molecular iron environments implicating brain tissue’s iron homeostasis remains a challenge. We present a novel magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology sensitive to the iron homeostasis of the living brain (the r1-r2* relaxivity).In vitro, our MRI approach reveals the distinct paramagnetic properties of ferritin, transferrin and ferrous iron. In thein vivohuman brain, we validate our approach against ex vivo iron compounds quantification and gene expression. Our approach varies with the iron mobilization capacity across brain regions and in aging. It reveals brain tumors’ iron homeostasis, and enhances the distinction between tumor tissue and non-pathological tissue without contrast agents. Therefore, our approach may allow for non-invasive research and diagnosis of iron homeostasis in living human brains.

Graphical abstract

Non-invasive assessment of normal and impaired iron homeostasis in living human brains.
Repeated birth injuries lead to pelvic floor muscle dysfunction and impairment in regeneration
Authors: Duran Pamela , Zelus Emma , French Saya , Burnett Lindsey , Christman Karen L. , Alperin Marianna
Published: May 2022

Objectives

Childbirth is a key risk factor for pelvic floor muscle (PFM) injury and dysfunction, and subsequent pelvic floor disorders (PFDs). Multiparity further exacerbates these risks. Using the pre-clinical rat model of simulated birth injury (SBI), we previously identified that an SBI leads to PFM atrophy and fibrosis. We hypothesized that multiple SBIs further overwhelm PFM regenerative capacity, leading to functionally relevant pathological alterations long-term.

Study Design

Rats underwent SBI and were allowed to recover for 8 weeks to undergo another SBI. Animals were sacrificed at acute, subacute, and long-term time points post-second injury (N=3-6/time point), and pubocaudalis (PCa) was harvested to assess ex vivo muscle function, histomorphological properties and gene expression.

Results

Acutely following the 1st SBI, PCa force was decreased relative to controls. At 4 weeks, PCa force was recovered and remained unchanged at 8 weeks. Similarly, lower PCa force was observed immediately after repeated SBI. In contrast to functional recovery after 1st SBI, PCa force remained lower at 4 weeks post-2nd SBI and continued to be decreased even after 12 weeks after repeated injury. Fiber size was smaller at the long-term time points after 2nd SBI compared to controls and single SBI groups. As opposed to the resolution of centralized nuclei at 8 weeks post-1st SBI, regenerating myofibers persisted even at 12 weeks post-2nd SBI. In contrast to the peak of collagen content at 4 weeks post-1st SBI, this parameter raised progressively over 12 weeks after repeated SBIs. Prolonged inflammatory response, impairment in muscle anabolism, and sustained expression of ECM remodeling genes were observed after repeated SBIs.

Conclusions

Repeated birth injuries delay PFM regeneration and impair function in the pre-clinical rat model.
The Rosenbluth sampling Calculation of Hydrophobic-Polar Model
Authors: Wierzbiński Marcin , Crimi Alessandro
Published: May 2022

Abstract

Lattice proteins are models resembling real proteins. They comprise an energy function and a set of conditions specifying the interaction between elements occupying adjacent lattice sites. In this paper we present an approach examining the behavior of chains of a large number of molecules. We investigate this by solving a restricted random walk problem on a cubic lattice and square lattice. More specifically, we apply the hydrophobic-polar model to examine the spatial characteristics of protein folds using the Monte Carlo method. This technique is the so-called Rosenbluth sampling method for solving restricted random walk problems. Specifically, by solving such walks we obtain plausible folds. In addition, this method can be extended to solve the hydrophobic-polar model. In this paper, we describe this method as an algorithm that calculates the energy spectrum for the hydrophobic-polar model, and the related formula for estimating the number of folds. Moreover, we estimate the number of folds for each sequence using hydrophobic-polar model energy estimation. On test sequences the predicted protein folds were obtained with a mismatch of one unit according to the energy. We also observe that the estimated number of folds depends only on the length and not on the type of sequence. This promising strategy can be extended to quantify other proteins in nature.
The space between the rock and the hard place: personality disorder diagnosis in people with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Downs Claire Marie , Rayner-Smith Kelly
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The assessment for and diagnosis of personality disorder (PD) continue to be contentious, with many prominent practitioner psychologists arguing against this specific label and providing a credible alternative framework to psychiatric diagnosis more generally. This paper aims to summarise the literature and support practitioners identifying PD in people with intellectual disabilities (ID).

Design/methodology/approach

Relevant National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance and literature were reviewed to provide a service position on the assessment and diagnosis of PD in people with ID.

Findings

For people with intellectual disabilities, the PD label can be even less robustly applied and may be even more pejorative and obstructive. That said, there are people for whom a PD diagnosis has clear clinical utility and opens access to suitable specialist services.

Practical implications

Evidence suggests that a diagnosis of PD can be both facilitative and obstructive, and the assessment and diagnosis process should, therefore, be undertaken with caution.

Originality/value

This paper presents an account of NICE guidance and evidence on the assessment and diagnosis of PD in people with intellectual disabilities.
CSR committees, politicians and CSR efforts
Authors: Guo Jun , Yu Yang
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the relationships among the presence of corporate social responsibility (CSR) committee, politicians on CSR committee and CSR disclosure in 10-Ks using data from S&P 500 firms during 2005–2013.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors manually check the information of CSR committees as well as committees with CSR/sustainability functions from proxy statements (DEF 14a). CSR disclosure from 10-Ks is obtained by using a Python library named Beautiful Soup 4 to clean the rough data from the raw format files from EDGAR.

Findings

The authors find that superior sustainability governance is associated with more voluntary CSR disclosure in their 10-K reports. More importantly, they find that CSR committee members with working experiences as politicians play an important role to improve CSR disclosure. In the robustness tests, they find that CSR committee and the politicians on CSR committee are also associated with high KLD CSR score ratings.

Practical implications

The finding in our paper that politicians on CSR committee can enhance CSR efforts may provide practical implications to some companies. Companies may consider inviting people who have political connections and experience to serve on CSR committees.

Originality/value

The authors find the presence of politicians on CSR committee is associated with CSR disclosure and CSR performance. That's new to the CSR governance literature and makes contributions to CSR disclosures and CSR committee expertise and skills.
Leveraging markets to develop central capabilities: case studies of Cotati, CA, and Brownsville, TX
Authors: Ely-Ledesma Edna
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Marketplaces have been central to civilization, as they foster trade and social life. Marketplaces are built environment (BE) interventions which, when looked at through a historical lens, reflect inequalities and subsequent deployment by people of color (POC). While the resurgence of farmers’ markets is a positive stride towards food justice over the past three decades, studies show that the disparities of class inequality and geographic constraints are key limitations to access for vulnerable populations. The fundamental question of this paper is, how can farmers’ markets use data to strategize and plan in ways that better serve their communities and give them more control?

Design/methodology/approach

This paper brings together applied methods in marketplace research and spatial analytical processes geographic information systems (GISs) to inform the research questions through an intersectional model of analysis. Data analysis merges local data collected from the market organization using the Farm 2 Facts toolkit and publicly available data to conduct geospatial analysis of the markets and their surrounding context. Two case studies are explored in Cotati, CA, and Brownsville, TX.

Findings

Despite the similarities and nuances of the two case studies, the data show that both markets serve a narrow pool of customers extended a couple of miles from the market. (1) The markets are not serving communities with the most need. (2) Farmers’ markets need to increase affiliation with POC. (3) Farmers’ market locations can impact control over one's environment.

Originality/value

The research builds of Nussbaum's capabilities model and explores three capabilities that are in line with what markets (1) bodily health, (2) affiliation and perhaps most significantly (3) control over one's own environment. Farmers’ market location can impact control over one's environment.
Do broken promises matter? The effects of psychological contract breach on job embeddedness and nurses' work attitudes
Authors: Dechawatanapaisal Decha
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This research investigates the effects of psychological contract breach on the fit, links and sacrifice dimensions of job embeddedness as well as the mediating roles of these three subcomponents in the relationships between psychological contract breach and nurses' work attitudes.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 591 nurses from private general hospitals in northern Thailand. The hypotheses were tested and analyzed by means of a confirmatory factor analysis, structural equation modeling and a bootstrapping procedure.

Findings

The results indicate that psychological contract breach was negatively associated with the three dimensions of job embeddedness, signifying that the fit, links and sacrifice dimensions are distinct constructs. Also, these three subcomponents mediated the relationship between psychological contract breach and loyal boosterism. Only the links and sacrifice dimensions were found to have mediating effects on turnover intention.

Research limitations/implications

Future research may consider longitudinal data to avoid potential method biases and draw causal inferences among study variables. Employing cross-cultural research in future studies would also be beneficial.

Practical implications

If possible, health care organizations should not make any promises that they cannot keep or fulfill. Fine-tuning expectation and managing communication in a timely manner may signal commitments to fulfill the contracts and minimize any potential inducement-outcome discrepancies.

Originality/value

This study adds to the literature by furthering understanding of the employee-organization relationship through the lens of psychological contract and job embeddedness theories.
Structures and relationships in organizational learning for change
Authors: Karnopp Jennifer
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Much of the scholarship relating to educator learning in the context of school change centers on promising organizational structures that support educator knowledge-building and sharing. However, recent studies have found that educators' social networks also enhance learning of new practices. This study aims to explore how informal interactions support organizational learning in schools.

Design/methodology/approach

Applying structuration theory to concepts of organizational learning mechanisms, this paper proposes a framework for examining informal interactions and organizational learning. Employing an exploratory sequential mixed-methods design, this paper utilizes social network analysis of survey data and thematic analysis of interview data of a purposive sample of participants in a rural school district.

Findings

Within this rural district, organizational and social conditions supported recursive interactions where educators developed and shared knowledge of new instructional practices. Organizational resources and routines, and individuals' habits of mind mediated these recursive interactions, resulting in somewhat dependable knowledge-sharing spaces. Through these recursive interactions between individual agents acting within the opportunities and constraints of the normalized organizational expectations of each school, informal knowledge structures emerged.

Originality/value

This article applies structuration theory to examine organizational learning mechanisms in schools. This novel approach provides researchers with a new perspective on the organizational learning process—one that facilitates the exploration of the role of informal knowledge-building in this process.
Multiobjective and multivariable optimization for earthmoving equipment
Authors: Alshboul Odey , Shehadeh Ali , Tatari Omer , Almasabha Ghassan , Saleh Eman
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Efficient management of earthmoving equipment is critical for decision-makers in construction engineering management. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to prudently identify, select, manage and optimize the associated decision variables (e.g. capacity, number and speed) for trucks and loaders equipment to minimize cost and time objectives.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper addresses an innovative multiobjective and multivariable mathematical optimization model to generate a Pareto-optimality set of solutions that offers insights of optimal tradeoffs between minimizing earthmoving activity’s cost and time. The proposed model has three major stages: first, define all related decision variables for trucks and loaders and detect all related constraints that affect the optimization model; second, derive the mathematical optimization model and apply the multiobjective genetic algorithms and classify all inputs and outputs related to the mathematical model; and third, model validation.

Findings

The efficiency of the proposed optimization model has been validated using a case study of earthmoving activities based on data collected from the real-world construction site. The outputs of the conducted optimization process promise the model’s originality and efficiency in generating optimal solutions for optimal time and cost objectives.

Originality/value

This model provides the decision-maker with an efficient tool to select the optimal design variables to minimize the activity's time and cost.
Linking online and offline intergenerational knowledge transfer to younger employees’ innovative work behaviors: evidence from Chinese hospitals
Authors: Wang Changyu , Dong Yihong , Ye Zixi , Feng Jiaojiao
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Little is known about when younger employees’ intergenerational knowledge transfer (IGKT) – behaviors of acquiring knowledge from older employees – improves their innovative work behaviors (IWB), especially in hospitals. Taking into consideration the moderating roles of individual absorptive capacity (AC) and organization size, this study aims to develop a theoretical model to account for the associations of both online and offline IGKT with younger employees’ IWB.

Design/methodology/approach

The model was tested with a survey of 202 Chinese younger doctors (40 years old and below). Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to analyze the data.

Findings

The results showed that both online IGKT and offline IGKT have significant positive relationships with younger doctors’ IWB. Individual AC can strengthen the relationship between offline IGKT and IWB, and organization size can weaken the relationship. However, both individual AC and organization size do not significantly moderate the relationship between online IGKT and IWB.

Originality/value

The findings extend the understanding and application of individual-level knowledge-based view and media synchronicity theory by exploring the relationship of knowledge acquisition from older doctors through both online and offline communication channels with younger doctors’ IWB.
Green innovation and environmental awareness driven green purchase intentions
Authors: Zameer Hashim , Yasmeen Humaira
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the role of environmental awareness, environmental concerns, and green innovation toward green purchase intentions. This paper theoretically extends the existing knowledge on the subject matter and adds value to the existing knowledge.

Design/methodology/approach

Based upon the existing literature and relevant theories the study developed several assumptions/hypotheses. To test the hypothesis, a comprehensive data set that was collected through online survey method was utilized. For the empirical analysis the study employed structural equation modeling technique.

Findings

The results from the study indicated that environmental awareness significantly reinforce green purchase intentions. Whereas, the authors could not find evidence for the direct influence of green innovation on green purchase intentions. The analysis show, green product knowledge and environmental concerns partially mediate the relationship among environmental awareness and green purchase intentions. However, green product knowledge and environmental concerns fully mediate the relationship among green innovation and green purchase intentions.

Originality/value

The study measures the role of green innovation, environmental awareness, environmental concerns, and green product knowledge toward green purchase intentions which is pivotal for sustainable consumption. Similarly, the study adds value to the existing research on the management of environmental awareness and protection through reinforcing green purchases.
Synthesis, characterization, spectroscopic properties and computational studies of some new azo dyes derived from 5-chloro-8-hydroxy quinoline
Authors: Ashouri Mirsadeghi Fatemeh , Moradi Rufchahi Enayatollah , Zarrabi Saeid
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study, 3-aminopyridine, 8-aminoquinoline and some new synthesized 2-aminobenzothiazoles were diazotized with nitrosyl sulfuric acid and subsequently coupled with 5-chloro-8-hydroxy quinoline to synthesize the corresponding heteroarylazo dyes 6–13.

Design/methodology/approach

The structures of dyes were characterized by mass, Fourier transform infra red, 1H proton nuclear magnetic resonance and ultra violet-visible spectroscopic techniques. Absorption spectra of the dyes were measured in acetic acid, ethanol, chloroform, acetonitrile, dimethyl formamide and dimethyl sulfoxide and correlated with the nature of the solvents and substituents. The effects of varying pH on the absorption wavelengths of the azo dyes were also studied. In addition, the acidity constants (pKa) of the dyes were determined using the spectrophotometric method in an ethanol-water mixture (80:20, v/v) at 20–23°C. Besides, density functional theory (DFT) calculations were carried out to compare the energies of proposed azo and hydrazone tautomers of the dyes.

Findings

The results showed that the withdrawing chloro groups on the diazo moiety have significant influence (red shift) on the electron absorption spectra of these dyes. In addition, introducing electron withdrawing chloro groups into the benzothiazoles moiety increased the acidic character of dyes.

Originality/value

The synthesized 7-hetroarylazo-5-chloro-8-hydroxy quinoline dyes are new members in the 8-hydroxyquinoline azo dyes family, where very few details regarding the synthesis of such dyes are reported before in the literature. They are unique in terms of synthesis, spectral properties and DFT calculations.
Backtesting the evaluation of Value-at-Risk methods for exchange rates
Authors: Mrkvička Tomáš , Krásnická Martina , Friebel Ludvík , Volek Tomáš , Rolínek Ladislav
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Small- and medium-sized enterprises can be highly affected by losses caused by exchange rate changes. The aim of this paper was to find the optimal Value-at-Risk (VaR) method for estimating future exchange rate losses within one year.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis focuses on five VaR methods, some of them traditional and some of them more up to date with integrated EVT or GARCH. The analysis of VaR methods was concentrated on a time horizon (1–12 months), overestimation predictions and six scenarios based on trends and variability of exchange rates. This study used three currency pairs EUR/CZK, EUR/USD and EUR/JPY for backtesting.

Findings

In compliance with the backtesting results, the parametric VaR with random walk has been chosen, despite its shortcomings, as the most accurate for estimating future losses in a medium-term period. The Nonparametric VaR confirmed insensitivity to the current exchange rate development. The EVT-based methods showed overconservatism (overestimation predictions). Every parametric or semiparametric method revealed a severe increase of liberality with increasing time.

Research limitations/implications

This research is limited to the analysis of suitable VaR models in a long- and short-run period without using artificial intelligence.

Practical implications

The result of this paper is the choice of a proper VaR method for the online application for estimating the future exchange rate for enterprises.

Originality/value

The orientation of medium-term period makes the research original and useful for small- and medium-sized enterprises.
Critical friendship as vital to the development of RPCK
Authors: Barrow Elizabeth C. , Norman Taylor
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this manuscript is to reveal how a White social studies teacher educator attempted to go from being a non-racist educator to an anti-racist educator (King and Chandler, 2016) and build her racial pedagogical content knowledge (RPCK).

Design/methodology/approach

This manuscript is on part of a collaborative self-study. The authors used critical friendship (Schuck and Russell, 2005) and RPCK as the conceptual framework. The authors used self-study research methodology to analyze and interrogate analytical reflections, course syllabi, and course assignments. All data were analyzed through intentional and analytical dialogue over the course of weekly debriefs and three formal debriefing sessions.

Findings

Findings from this study indicate that while stressful and challenging at times, the critical friendship with Taylor was vital in developing her RPCK. The friendship liberated and brought voice to her traditional, racialized self through intentional and analytic dialogue. This dialogue benefited the curricular review she was conducting on her content methods course to develop and integrate RPCK to her pedagogical mind.

Research limitations/implications

The authors show that critical friendships can transform definitions of self and pedagogical practice. If social studies teacher educators are going to do the work of anti-racism, then it is our suggestion that they form a critical friendship to support their self-growth and pedagogical intentions before suggesting pedagogical innovations.

Practical implications

This paper includes visual representation of RPCK that will allow other social studies teacher educators to teach the concept to their students. It also provides a framework to support others who want to work on their RPCK and racialized self.

Originality/value

This manuscript fulfills a need in the field by highlighting how a teacher educator can leverage a critical friendship to describe and reveal the enactment and analysis of balancing the self and practice regarding RPCK development. Visual representations of the conceptualization of RPCK are included.
Association between bullous pemphigoid and risk of venous thromboembolism: A nationwide population‐based cohort study
Authors: Chen Ching‐Li , Wu Chun‐Ying , Lyu Ying‐Syuan , Chou Yiing‐Jenq , Chang Yun‐Ting , Wu Chen‐Yi
Published: May 2022

Bullous pemphigoid (BP) has been reported to be associated with an increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). However, the exact time course is unclear, and no previous studies have been reported in the Asian population. This nationwide population‐based cohort study examined the risk of VTE among BP patients in Taiwan between 2007 and 2018. A total of 12 692 BP patients were 1:2 matched with non‐BP patients by age, sex, and propensity score of comorbidities. Cumulative incidence and Cox proportional hazards models were used to investigate the risk of VTE. The BP cohort had a significantly higher VTE rate than the non‐BP cohort (0.17% vs. 0.08%, p = 0.015) in 1 year; the finding was more prominent within the first 6 months after diagnosis. BP was a significant risk factor for VTE (hazard ratio [HR], 2.02; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01–4.06); the association mildly diminished but remained significant after extending the follow‐up period to 2 years (HR, 1.73; 95% CI, 1.06–2.81). Other significant risk factors for VTE included cancer, chronic liver disease and cirrhosis, and female sex. In conclusion, this study revealed a 2.02‐fold increased risk of VTE in patients with BP in Taiwan.