bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three-dimensional data-driven magnetostatic field computation using real-world measurement data
Authors: Galetzka Armin , Loukrezis Dimitrios , De Gersem Herbert
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the applicability of data-driven solvers to computationally demanding three-dimensional problems and their practical usability when using real-world measurement data.

Design/methodology/approach

Instead of using a hard-coded phenomenological material model within the solver, the data-driven computing approach reformulates the boundary value problem such that the field solution is directly computed on raw measurement data. The data-driven formulation results in a double minimization problem based on Lagrange multipliers, where the sought solution must conform to Maxwell’s equations while at the same time being as close as possible to the available measurement data. The data-driven solver is applied to a three-dimensional model of a direct current electromagnet.

Findings

Numerical results for data sets of increasing cardinality verify that the data-driven solver recovers the conventional solution. Additionally, the practical usability of the solver is shown by using real-world measurement data. This work concludes that the data-driven magnetostatic finite element solver is applicable to computationally demanding three-dimensional problems, as well as in cases where a prescribed material model is not available.

Originality/value

Although the mathematical derivation of the data-driven problem is well presented in the referenced papers, the application to computationally demanding real-world problems, including real measurement data and its rigorous discussion, is missing. The presented work closes this gap and shows the applicability of data-driven solvers to challenging, real-world test cases.
TPTPC and BHC integrated grid connected energy storage system for power loss reduction
Authors: Krishnan Suresh , Pandi Pothuraju , Mopidevi Subbarao
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a bidirectional hidden converter (BHC)-based three-phase DC–AC conversion for energy storage application. BHC is the new concept to vary an energy storage device voltage into wide range. Hidden converter power loss and power rating are reduced by using zero-sequence injection-based carrier-based pulse-width modulation (CBPWM) strategy.

Design/methodology/approach

By using this control strategy, a BHC processes only little amount of power during double-stage conversion, mostly during direct or single-stage conversion of the three-phase three-port converter (TPTPC) only processing the maximum power.

Findings

TPTPC consists of two sets of positive group switches for inversion process, one set of switches is regular inverter switches called vertical positive group switches, and the second set is anti-series switches, which are horizontally connected for direct or single-stage conversion.

Originality/value

Characteristics, principles and implementations of proposed DC–AC 3Ø conversion system and its PWM strategy are analyzed. Through experimental outputs, the effectiveness and viability of the proposed solutions are validated.
Illegitimate tasks and occupational outcomes: the impact of vertical collectivism
Authors: Akyurek Server Sevil , Can Ozge
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This study aims to understand essential work and occupational consequences of employees’ illegitimate task (ILT) experiences (unreasonable and unnecessary task demands) under the influence of vertical collectivist (VC) values.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected via a survey from 503 teachers in the Turkish public education sector. The hypotheses were tested using structural equation modeling.

Findings

Findings of this study reveal that unnecessary tasks decrease employees’ professional identification and perceived occupational prestige, whereas unreasonable tasks weaken their workplace well-being. Results also show that employees with higher VC orientation feel these adverse effects to a lesser extent.

Research limitations/implications

This study demonstrates that individual-level cultural values play a significant role in understanding task-related dynamics and consequences at the workplace. It brings new theoretical insights to job design and work stress literature regarding what similar factors can mitigate task pressures on employees.

Practical implications

A key practical insight from the findings is that human resources management experts should create a positive task environment where ILT demands are not welcome by analyzing jobs and skill requirements in detail, communicating task decisions regularly with employees and providing them with the necessary work support.

Social implications

Understanding the impact of ILT can greatly help to assess the quality of the education system and the value of teaching occupation in society.

Originality/value

ILT have been mainly discussed without considering the effect of different cultural orientations. This is the first study empirically showing the diverse effects of two ILT dimensions on essential occupational outcomes in connection to individual-level cultural influences.
A bottom-up role of information asymmetry: opening the black-box of firms’ resource allocation mechanism
Authors: Blouch Riffat , Khan Muhammad Majid , Shakeel Wajid
Published: November 2021

Purpose

Drawing on the concept of resource-based theory of the firm; the purpose of this study is to analyze the influence of firms’ strategic approaches on the firm performance via indirect effect using a multilevel, bottom-up approach.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the survey method, the present study obtains data from 104 diversified manufacturing firms and analyzes the bottom-up effect of firms’ strategic approach on efficient resource allocation using Mplus.

Findings

Given the prevailing conditions, the study found that the motive of most firms is growth rather than risk mitigation or collaboration in the manufacturing sector of Pakistan. Furthermore, the study found that the bottom-level employees’ information asymmetry has a significant impact on the strategic resource allocation decision, which can lead to resource allocation inefficiency.

Research limitations/implications

Despite making a unique contribution, the present study has few limitations requiring researchers’ attention to in the forthcoming. These include a low amount of data, self-reporting technique and failure to include all the possible reason that could cause resource allocation inefficiency.

Practical implications

The present research has potential applications for managers of the manufacturing industry. First, the study alerts managers about the challenges of resource allocation. At the same time, this study provides critical implication for managing bottom-level employees.

Originality/value

The current study has made a sizable impression in the literature of resource-based theory of the firm by recommending a model that augments the theoretical foundation of strategic management of the firm. So, closely considering these insights would be helping for the firms for allocating resources efficiently in the manufacturing industry.
The effects of on-the-job embeddedness and its sub-dimensions on small-sized hotel employees’ organizational commitment, work engagement and turnover intentions
Authors: Ampofo Emmanuel Twumasi , Karatepe Osman M.
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the impacts of links, fit and sacrifice as the sub-dimensions of on-the-job embeddedness (JE) on turnover intentions through the mediating roles of affective organizational commitment (AOC) and work engagement (WENG) and explore AOC and WENG as the two mediators linking on-the-JE to quitting intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

Data collected from small-sized hotels in three waves in Ghana were used to assess the aforesaid relationships. The hypothesized relationships were tested using structural equation modeling.

Findings

The findings reveal that on-the-JE is negatively related to turnover intentions. Additionally, the relationship between on-the-JE and turnover intentions is partly mediated by AOC and WENG. The findings further demonstrate that AOC and WENG partly mediate the impact of links on turnover intentions.

Practical implications

Management of hotels should enhance formal and informal connections between employees and their coworkers and supervisors through socialization tactics. Establishing and maintaining an environment that fosters social support would increase employees’ sense of belongingness and their proclivity to remain with the organization.

Originality/value

Little is known about the effects of the sub-dimensions of on-the-JE on work-related consequences in the hospitality and tourism literature. The literature is also devoid of evidence concerning affective variables as the potential mediators relating the sub-dimensions of on-the JE to turnover intentions. The study sets out to fill in these gaps.
Assessment of the causes and effects of design deficiencies for large construction projects using social network analysis
Authors: Shoar Shahab , Chileshe Nicholas , Payan Shamsi
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the latent interrelationships of causes and effects of design deficiencies (DDs) and to identify the most crucial ones by considering the interactions among them.

Design/methodology/approach

First, through a comprehensive literature review, the most critical causes of DDs were identified. The review eventuated in a list of 22 causes and 12 effects, which were categorized into six groups. Second, through the rules of system dynamics and the interactions between the causes and effects were modeled and illustrated using causal loop diagrams (CLDs). With the aid of semi-structured interviews with 20 competent experts, the resultant CLDs were also validated. Third, the opinions of 54 experts, who were chosen from the Iranian community of clients and consultants, were solicited concerning the degree of influence which each factor (causes or effects) exerts on others. Finally, the social network analysis (SNA) approach was deployed to analyze and prioritize factors based on the gathered data from experts.

Findings

SNA results indicated that factors such as “design firms' staff rework” and “design firms' loss of reputation” are the most central factors affecting DDs. The model results also identified that factors such as “schedule variance”, “workload” and “lack of quality control and supervision during the design phase” have the highest overall impact on DDs. In the end, some recommendations to address major factors and links were also put forward. Overall, more communications between the pair of stakeholder groups and continuous learning from project experiences are believed to be the main strategies.

Originality/value

It is believed that this study has provided a comprehensive understanding of causal mechanisms among factors, which can assist project managers of different parties (clients, contractors and consulting firms) in taking more effective actions to ameliorate the quality of design documents.
Exploring contributions of drones towards Industry 4.0
Authors: Javaid Mohd , Khan Ibrahim Haleem , Singh Ravi Pratap , Rab Shanay , Suman Rajiv
Published: November 2021

Purpose

Unmanned aerial vehicles are commonly known as UAVs and drones. Nowadays, industries have begun to realise the operational and economic benefits of drone-enabled tasks. The Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data, drones, etc., represent implementable advanced technologies intended to accomplish Industry 4.0. The purpose of this study is to discuss the significant contributions of drones for Industry 4.0.

Design/methodology/approach

Nowadays, drones are used for inspections, mapping and surveying in difficult or hazardous locations. For writing this paper, relevant research papers on drone for Industry 4.0 are identified from various research platforms such as Scopus, Google Scholar, ResearchGate and ScienceDirect. Given the enormous extent of the topic, this work analyses many papers, reports and news stories in an attempt to comprehend and clarify Industry 4.0.

Findings

Drones are being implemented in manufacturing, entertainment industries (cinematography, etc.) and machinery across the world. Thermal-imaging devices attached to drones can detect variable heat levels emanating from a facility, trigger the sprinkler system and inform emergency authorities. Due partly to their utility and adaptability in industrial areas such as energy, transportation, engineering and more, autonomous drones significantly impact Industry 4.0. This paper discusses drones and their types. Several technological advances and primary extents of drones for Industry 4.0 are diagrammatically elaborated. Further, the authors identified and discussed 19 major applications of drones for Industry 4.0.

Originality/value

This paper’s originality lies in its discussion and exploration of the capabilities of drones for Industry 4.0, especially in manufacturing organisations. In addition to improving efficiency and site productivity, drones can easily undertake routine inspections and check streamlines operations and maintenance procedures. This work contributes to creating a common foundation for comprehending Industry 4.0 outcomes from many disciplinary viewpoints, allowing for more research and development for industrial innovation and technological progress.
Entrepreneurial orientation and performance of SMEs: the roles of marketing capabilities and social media usage
Authors: Susanto Perengki , Hoque Mohammad Enamul , Shah Najeeb Ullah , Candra Andel Hopi , Hashim Nik Mohd Hazrul Nik , Abdullah Nor Liza
Published: November 2021

Purpose

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are an important contributor to emerging countries’ economic growth. However, SMEs have been struggling to sustain their performance in a highly competitive environment. Thus, this study aims to re-examine the effect of SMEs’ entrepreneurial orientation (EO) on firms’ performance during the COVID-19. This study has also studied the moderating role of social media usage and the mediating role of marketing capabilities and social media usage.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a structured questionnaire for data collection, where the unit of analysis was the manager or owner of SMEs. The data were analyzed using partial least square-structural equation modeling.

Findings

The findings show that an EO has a significant and positive effect on an SME’s performance, but the outcomes are conditional on the role of social media and marketing capabilities. The empirical results reveal that marketing capabilities significantly mediate the relationship between EO and SME performance. In addition, social media usage moderates the relationship between EO and SME performance and it also partially mediates the EO-performance nexus of SMEs. Finally, this study discovers that the EO-Performance nexus of SMEs is serially mediated by social media usage and marketing capabilities.

Research limitations/implications

This study has important implications for SMEs that are seeking to gain a competitive advantage. For example, an SME should deploy market activities through social media channels. In situations such as a pandemic and uncertainty, this could be the most effective tool.

Originality/value

This study builds a theory-based mediation-moderation model to explain the link between EO and SME performance. In explaining mediation-moderation effects, the current study provides insight into EO-performance relationships. Moreover, the current model facilitates exploring whether serial mediation passes through social media usage and market capabilities. Therefore, with new findings, the study extends the literature on serial mediation in the EO-performance of SMEs. Additionally, this study extends the literature on the moderating role of social media on SMEs in Indonesia, which has not been investigated. Besides, the current study adds new insight into the EO-performance of SME in COVID-19 condition.
Banking industry stability and investment dynamics
Authors: Abaidoo Rexford , Agyapong Elvis Kwame
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to evaluate how strands of differing investments influence stability in the banking industry using data from 37 countries in Sub-Sahara Africa from 2000 to 2018.

Design/methodology/approach

Empirical analyses in the study were carried out using a two-step system Generalized Method of Moments estimation methodology.

Findings

Empirical results suggest that generally, growth in investments by governments, foreign investments and private domestic investments have a significant positive impact in stabilizing the banking industry. The empirical estimates further suggest that macroeconomic conditions such as macroeconomic uncertainty adversely affects the liquid reserve position of banks even during periods of appreciable growth in investments.

Originality/value

The authors present a different approach to the banking industry discourse. Instead of surmise the relationship with the direction of impact often emanating from the banking industry to other variables of interest or conditions, this study rather examines how investment dynamics among economies influence the stability of the banking industry overtime. In contrast to related studies, this study examines how strands of investment variables influence the stability of the banking industry. Specifically, this study is modeled to examine the extent to which variability in investment growth (using different investment variables) affect stability in the banking industry.
A win-win scenario? Restrictive policies from alternative standpoints
Authors: Cupit Caroline , Armstrong Natalie
Published: November 2021

Purpose

In this viewpoint article, the authors consider the challenges in implementing restrictive policies, with a particular focus on how these policies are experienced, in practice, from alternative standpoints.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors draw on social science studies of decommissioning work to highlight how patient and official versions of value often vary, creating difficulties and distrust as restrictive policies are implemented. Patients and the public are well aware that financial calculations are somehow embedded in concepts of “evidence” and “value” but are usually unfamiliar with the social infrastructures that produce and utilise such concepts. The authors discuss with reference to a contemporary restrictive programme in England.

Findings

While policymakers and researchers frequently present restrictive policies as “win-win” scenarios (achieving both cost-savings for healthcare services and improved patient care), social science analyses highlight the potential for tensions and controversies between stakeholders. The authors recognise that cost containment is a necessary component of policymaking work but argue that policymakers and researchers should seek to map (and make visible) the socially organised reasoning, systems and processes that are involved in enacting restrictive policies. Although transparency may pose challenges, it is important for informed democratic engagement, allowing legitimate scrutiny of whose voices are being heard and interests served (the “winners” and “losers”).

Originality/value

The authors argue for social science analyses that explore overuse, value and restrictive practices from alternative (e.g. patient) standpoints. These can provide important insights to help identify priorities for intervention and support better communication.
Managing medicines at the end of life: a position paper for health policy and practice
Authors: Latif Asam , Faull Christina , Waring Justin , Wilson Eleanor , Anderson Claire , Avery Anthony , Pollock Kristian
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The impact of population ageing is significant, multifaceted and characterised by frailty and multi-morbidity. The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated care pathways and policies promoting self-management and home-based care. One under-researched area is how patients and family caregivers manage the complexity of end-of-life therapeutic medicine regimens. In this position paper the authors bring attention to the significant strain that patients and family caregivers experience when navigating and negotiating this aspect of palliative and end-of-life care.

Design/methodology/approach

Focussing on self-care and organisation of medicines in the United Kingdom (UK) context, the paper examines, builds on and extends the debate by considering the underlying policy assumptions and unintended consequences for individual patients and family care givers as they assume greater palliative and end-of-life roles and responsibilities.

Findings

Policy makers and healthcare professionals often lack awareness of the significant burden and emotional work associated with managing and administering often potent high-risk medicines (i.e. opioids) in the domiciliary setting. The recent “revolution” in professional roles associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, including remote consultations and expanding community-based care, means there are opportunities for commissioners to consider offering greater support. The prospect of enhancing the community pharmacist's medicine optimisation role to further support the wider multi-disciplinary team is considered.

Originality/value

The paper takes a person-focused perspective and adopts a holistic view of medicine management. The authors argue for urgent review, reform and investment to enable and support terminally ill patients and family caregivers to more effectively manage medicines in the domiciliary setting. There are clear implications for pharmacists and these are discussed in the context of public awareness, inter-professional collaboration, organisational drivers, funding and regulation and remote care delivery.
Framework for enhancing students’ smartphone learning ability: a case study of Nigerian public Universities
Authors: Esechie Godswill Ejeohiolei , Ohueri Chukwuka Christian , Ishak Siti Zanariah Ahmad , Nwanesi Peter Karubi
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The importance of smartphones in enhancing students learning, research and development is well-established in many published studies. Nevertheless, due to numerous challenges, Nigerian students are yet to reap from the benefits of smartphones in terms of accessing vital information for learning and development. Therefore, this study aims to develop a framework that will enhance Nigerian students’ ability to use smartphones for learning.

Design/methodology/approach

The SERVQUAL Theory Framework is adapted to actualize the research aim. Moreover, a qualitative (in-depth interview) research approach was used to interview 60 students from 3 public universities in Nigeria. Purposive sampling technique was used to select the interviewees, and the interview data were analysed using thematic content analysis.

Findings

The findings identified the critical constraints that deter Nigerian students from reaping the full potential of smartphones for learning. The constraints are categorized into three groups which include telecommunication companies’ hiccups, such as high cost of internet, poor network services and coverage; government obstacles, such as high tax policies, insufficient electricity supply and lack of basic infrastructure; and university barriers, such as unavailability of Wi-Fi connection for students, lack of equipped university libraries and poor management.

Originality/value

Thus, a holistic Framework for Enhancing Students Smartphones Learning Ability was established to provide fundamental recommendations to the Nigerian Government, telecommunication companies in Nigeria and Nigerian universities to tackle the pressing issues hindering Nigerian students from using their smartphones for learning. This will enhance the smartphone learning experience of Nigerian students.
Let it flow: the role of seamlessness and the optimal experience on consumer word of mouth in omnichannel marketing
Authors: Rodríguez-Torrico Paula , San José Cabezudo Rebeca , San-Martín Sonia , Trabold Apadula Lauren
Published: November 2021

Purpose

Omnichannel consumers are more proactive, engage in longer shopping journeys and share their experiences. However, their postpurchase behavioral responses remain understudied. This paper aims to examine how a seamless omnichannel environment can contribute to a more optimal shopping experience (flow state) and the subsequent impact on the likelihood of generating mixed (positive and negative) word of mouth (WOM).

Design/methodology/approach

A controlled experiment was conducted with 220 participants to test the proposed model based on the stimulus–organism–response (S-O-R) model and flow theory. The authors conducted an analysis of variance, two regression analyses and two mediation analyses to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The results confirm a positive direct effect of a seamless environment on consumers' flow state and a positive (negative) direct impact of flow on the likelihood of generating positive (negative) WOM. Additionally, the results suggest that flow mediates the effect of a seamless environment on WOM.

Originality/value

This study contributes to omnichannel and WOM literature by exploring the critical role of seamlessness in consumers' subjective experience (flow state) and postpurchase behaviors (mixed WOM). In conjunction with the relevant theoretical contributions, these findings also offer guidelines for practitioners to manage the seamless environment and mixed WOM in the omnichannel context.
Workplace learning for pre – service teachers’ practice and quality teaching and learning in technical vocational education and training: key to professional development
Authors: Ogbuanya Theresa Chinyere , Shodipe Taiwo Olabanji
Published: November 2021

Purpose

With critical reviews of previous studies in workplace learning, this paper aims to investigate workplace learning for pre-service teachers’ practice and quality teaching and learning in technical vocational education and training: key to professional development.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted multistage sampling technique to select sample for the study. Empirical analysis was adopted to analyse the data collected from technical vocational education and training pre-service teachers.

Findings

The result of the study revealed that the constructs of social learning theory had a stronger linkage with the constructive teaching than traditional management.

Originality/value

This study emphasizes the need to adequately train pre-service teachers on instructional delivery processes, building strong relationship with learners and build the ability to organize and execute necessary actions required to successfully carry out a specific educational task in a particular context.
The effects of state ownership and tax rate cuts on accounting conservatism: evidence from Vietnam
Authors: Le Ben , Moore Paula Hearn
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the joint effects of state ownership and tax rate cuts on accounting conservatism, considering the different levels of foreign ownership in the context of Vietnam.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses ordinary least squares regressions and a data set of 405 firms covering the period 2007 to 2019. The manuscript uses three measures of accounting conservatism: Basu’s 1997 timeliness of earnings, Basu’s 1997 earnings persistence and the book-to-market ratio.

Findings

State-owned enterprises (SOEs) adopt less accounting conservatism than non-SOEs; however, the result is only robust in firms with foreign ownership being lower than the foreign ownership median. Firms increase accounting conservatism in the year immediately prior to the year that the tax rate cuts become effective. An SOE possesses an unusual conflict both as a taxpayer and in having its controlling interest held by the government, which is both a tax creator and a tax collector. Interestingly, the increase in accounting conservatism prior to the year of the tax rate cuts is more pronounced for non-SOEs than SOEs.

Practical implications

This research is beneficial to investors and policymakers where the government is both the taxpayer and tax collector and in emerging markets where foreign investment is local firms’ important financing.

Originality/value

To the best knowledge, this study is the first in examining the joint effects of state control and tax rate cuts on accounting conservatism.
Perceived organizational support and its interaction with voice on police officers' organizational cynicism, stress and emotional exhaustion
Authors: Smith Chelsie J. , Han Yu , Dupré Kathryne E. , Sears Greg J.
Published: November 2021

Purpose

Among a sample of 281 active-duty Canadian police officers, the current study investigated whether perceived organizational support (POS) would predict officers' organizational cynicism, stress and emotional exhaustion three months later. The moderating influence of officer voice on these relationships was also examined.

Design/methodology/approach

In collaboration with a large policing organization, online surveys collecting quantitative data and soliciting open-ended comments were administered to officers, with a three-month lag separating survey administrations.

Findings

The results reveal that POS predicted significant variance in each of the investigated outcomes. It was found that voice moderated the association between POS and organizational cynicism, but in a manner that suggests a suboptimal voice climate within the organization. Officers provided open-ended qualitative comments that supported this interpretation.

Practical implications

The evidence supports that if organizational leaders wish to prevent disadvantageous outcomes such as organizational cynicism, stress, emotional exhaustion and their consequents, then advancing both organizational support and a positive voice climate is recommended.

Originality/value

The results suggest that voice interacts with POS to influence organizational cynicism among police, highlighting the importance of responsiveness to voice for police management, and thus serving as an important bridge between theory and practice.
The experience and the prospects of Islamic finance in Kazakhstan
Authors: Shirazi Nasim S. , Kuanova Laura A. , Ryskulov Adilbek , Mukusheva Aziya G.
Published: November 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to take stock of the Islamic finance experience and aims to identify an approach for further development in Kazakhstan, using qualitative and quantitative assessments.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a conceptual framework based on literature review and content analysis. Furthermore, the study uses a survey-based methodology to collect data and determine the prospects, challenges and possible remedies. The quantitative parameters of the potential of Islamic finance in Kazakhstan are based on the assessment of funds on bank deposits, which can be considered potential resources for Islamic financial instruments.

Findings

The results suggest improving the legal framework and institutional environment to grow Islamic finance in the country. Raising trust levels in a Shariah-based system within the local population, reducing transaction costs and reducing information asymmetry allow raising public awareness of Islamic finance and integrating Islamic finance into the conventional financial system.

Research limitations/implications

This paper is not free from limitations and does not focus on implementing the suggested results.

Social implications

This work elaborates in what way the Islamic finance advancement affects the development of economics and focuses on co-financing of real asset-based projects, with the risk and loss sharing; charity; strict prohibitions on the financing of haram activities, pseudo-needs; and subordination of the individual’s interests to society.

Originality/value

The proposed study presents originalities and it identifies the significant challenges and barriers for further Islamic financial industry development in Kazakhstan by professionals survey. Furthermore, the study assesses potential Islamic finance assets and provides recommendations for successful Islamic finance advancement, considering the peculiarities of the national economy.
Achievements in bacterial flagellar research with focus on Vibrio species
Authors: Homma Michio , Nishikino Tatsuro , Kojima Seiji
Published: November 2021

In 1980s, the most genes involved in the bacterial flagellar function and formation had been isolated, although many of their functions or roles were not clarified. Bacterial flagella are the primary locomotive organ and are not necessary for growing in vitro but are probably essential for living in natural condition and are involved in the pathogenicity. In vitro, the flagella‐deficient strains can grow at rates similar to wild‐type strains. More than 50 genes are responsible for flagellar function, and the flagellum is constructed by more than 20 structural proteins. The maintenance cost of flagellum is high as several genes are required for its development. The fact that it evolved as a motor organ even with such high cost shows that the motility is indispensable to survive under the harsh environment of Earth. In this review, we focus on flagella‐related research conducted by the authors for about 40 years and flagellar research focused on Vibrio spp.
Identification of antibiotic resistance and virulence‐encoding factors in Klebsiella pneumoniae by Raman spectroscopy and deep learning
Authors: Lu Jiayue , Chen Jifan , Liu Congcong , Zeng Yu , Sun Qiaoling , Li Jiaping , Shen Zhangqi , Chen Sheng , Zhang Rong
Published: November 2021

Klebsiella pneumoniae has become the number one bacterial pathogen that causes high mortality in clinical settings worldwide. Clinical K. pneumoniae strains with carbapenem resistance and/or hypervirulent phenotypes cause higher mortality comparing with classical K. pneumoniae strains. Rapid differentiation of clinical K. pneumoniae with high resistance/hypervirulence from classical K. pneumoniae would allow us to develop rational and timely treatment plans. In this study, we developed a convolution neural network (CNN) as a prediction method using Raman spectra raw data for rapid identification of ARGs, hypervirulence‐encoding factors and resistance phenotypes from K. pneumoniae strains. A total of 71 K. pneumoniae strains were included in this study. The minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 15 commonly used antimicrobial agents on K. pneumoniae strains were determined. Seven thousand four hundred fifty‐five spectra were obtained using the InVia Reflex confocal Raman microscope and used for deep learning‐based and machine learning (ML) algorithms analyses. The quality of predictors was estimated in an independent data set. The results of antibiotic resistance and virulence‐encoding factors identification showed that the CNN model not only simplified the classification system for Raman spectroscopy but also provided significantly higher accuracy to identify K. pneumoniae with high resistance and virulence when compared with the support vector machine (SVM) and logistic regression (LR) models. By back‐testing the Raman‐CNN platform on 71 K. pneumoniae strains, we found that Raman spectroscopy allows for highly accurate and rationally designed treatment plans against bacterial infections within hours. More importantly, this method could reduce healthcare costs and antibiotics misuse, limiting the development of antimicrobial resistance and improving patient outcomes.
Increased serum AXL is associated with radiographic knee osteoarthritis severity
Authors: Zhenghai Shao
Published: November 2021

Objective

To investigate the expression and clinical significance of serum soluble AXL in patients with radiographic knee osteoarthritis (KOA).

Methods

There were 183 patients with KOA who were selected and divided based on the Kellgren‐Lawrence (KL) score into KL 0 subgroups (n = 42), KL I‐II subgroups (n = 90), and KL III‐IV subgroups (n = 51). Healthy volunteers (n = 170) in our hospital were selected with matched age and gender as the control group. AXL level in serum was detected by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The correlation between serum AXL with severity and clinical indicators of osteoarthritis was analyzed.

Results

The level of serum AXL was significantly higher in the osteoarthritis group than that in the control group (P < .05). In the osteoarthritis patients, serum AXL level was increased with the increase of KL score. Serum AXL level was positively correlated with age, body mass index, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, serum C‐reactive protein, cartilage oligomeric protein, matrix metalloproteinase‐13, and transforming growth factor‐β1 levels. The cut‐off value for serum AXL was determined as 33.375 ng/mL by receiver operating curve analysis.

Conclusion

The level of serum AXL in patients with osteoarthritis is significantly higher than in healthy controls, and is closely related to the severity of radiographic osteoarthritis.
Why we went to the woods?: effects of human disturbance on species presence in a disturbed Myanmar forest ecosystem
Authors: Cremonesi G. , Bisi F. , Gaffi L. , Loprete L. , Zaw T. , Gagliardi A. , Wauters L. A. , Preatoni D. G. , Martinoli A.
Published: November 2021

Human activities are affecting habitats and wildlife populations worldwide. Tropical forests are one of the most affected environments, mainly due to deforestation and poaching. Since high levels of anthropogenic pressure on forest ecosystems, including illegal logging and hunting, occur in southwest Myanmar (Rakhine State), we analyzed the effects of human disturbance on medium to large mammals in this region. We used camera‐trapping data collected over three consecutive years to investigate occurrence probabilities of 10 species: five common species exploited for bushmeat consumption, and five threatened species targeted by the illegal wildlife trade. We used a hierarchical single‐species multi‐season occupancy model implemented in a Bayesian framework to evaluate the effects of human disturbances and persistent habitat characteristics, such as the proportion of remaining pristine evergreen forest and the elevation, on occurrence probabilities. We found that occupancy probabilities of three out of five target species for the illegal wildlife trade were positively linked to forest habitats, whereas among common species hunted for bushmeat consumption the Northern red muntjak and the Malayan porcupine were negatively affected by human presence. The effects of human and habitat covariates were varied for other species of both groups. We confirmed results from previous studies that human disturbance is a driver of occurrence probabilities for some species in tropical areas. Our findings suggest that as protection of rainforest habitat is fundamental to the conservation of tropical ecosystems, law enforcement, patrolling, and local engagement activities are also recommended to mitigate forest and species exploitation. Finally, camera trapping could be a first step to identify areas where human presence affects species occupancy and help local authorities to develop more fine‐tuned conservation plans.
Polypharmacy in polymorbid pregnancies and the risk of congenital malformations—A systematic review
Authors: Thunbo Mette Østergaard , Vendelbo Julie Hauer , Volqvartz Tabia , Witte Daniel R. , Larsen Agnete , Pedersen Lars Henning
Published: November 2021

With an increased prevalence of concurrent morbidities during pregnancy, polypharmacy has become increasingly common in pregnant women. The risks associated with polypharmacy may exceed those of individual medication because of drug–drug interactions. This systematic review aims to evaluate the risk of congenital malformations in polymorbid pregnancies exposed to first‐trimester polypharmacy. PubMed, Embase and Scopus were searched to identify original human studies with first‐ trimester polypharmacy due to polymorbidity as the exposure and congenital malformations as the outcome. After screening of 4034 identified records, seven studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Four of the seven studies reported an increased risk of congenital malformations compared with unexposed or monotherapy, odds ratios ranging from 1.1 to >10.0. Particularly, short‐term anti‐infective treatment combined with other drugs and P‐glycoprotein substrates were associated with increased malformation risks. In conclusion, knowledge is limited on risks associated with first‐trimester polypharmacy due to polymorbidity with the underlying evidence of low quantity and quality. Therefore, an increased focus on pharmacovigilance to enable safe drug use in early pregnancy is needed. Large‐scale register‐based studies and better knowledge of placental biology are needed to support the clinical management of polymorbid pregnancies that require polypharmacy.
Racial disparities in living donor kidney transplantation in the United States
Authors: Husain S. Ali , King Kristen L. , Adler Joel T. , Mohan Sumit
Published: November 2021

Living donor kidney transplant (LDKT) is the best treatment for end‐stage kidney disease, but there are racial disparities in LDKT rates. To study putative mechanisms of these disparities, we identified 58 752 adult kidney transplant candidates first activated on the United States kidney transplant waitlist 2015–2016 and defined four exposure groups by race/primary payer: African American/Medicaid, African American/NonMedicaid, Non‐African American/Medicaid, Non‐African American/NonMedicaid. We performed competing risk regression to compare risk of LDKT between groups. Among included candidates, 30% had African American race and 9% had Medicaid primary payer. By the end of follow up, 16% underwent LDKT. The cumulative incidence of LDKT was lowest for African American candidates regardless of payer. Compared to African American/Non‐Medicaid candidates, the adjusted likelihood of LDKT was higher for both Non‐African American/Medicaid (HR 1.60, 95%CI 1.43–1.78) and Non‐African American/Non‐Medicaid candidates (HR 2.66, 95%CI 2.50–2.83). Results were similar when analyzing only candidates still waitlisted > 2 years after initial activation or candidates with type O blood. Among 9639 candidates who received LDKT, only 13% were African American. Donor‐recipient relationships were similar for African American and Non‐African American recipients. These findings indicate African American candidates have a lower incidence of LDKT than candidates of other races, regardless of primary payer.
Cicatricial pemphigoid Brunsting–Perry variant masquerading as neutrophil‐mediated cicatricial alopecia
Authors: Rahbar Ziba , Cohen Jarish N. , McCalmont Timothy H. , LeBoit Philip E. , Connolly M. Kari , Berger Timothy , Pincus Laura B.
Published: November 2021

A 72‐year‐old male presented with scarring alopecia on the scalp vertex, multiple crusted plaques on the hairline, and a history of vesicular eruption on the face. The scalp showed crusted plaques with loss of follicular ostia. No follicular pustules or compound follicles were present. An initial transverse scalp biopsy showed perifollicular neutrophils, lymphocytes, and plasma cells along with dermal fibrosis. Focal epidermal/dermal and follicular/adventitial dermal clefts were apparent but were thought to be secondary to fibrosis, and the biopsy result was interpreted to represent a neutrophil‐mediated cicatricial alopecia. Concurrently, direct immunofluorescence (DIF) analysis showed linear junctional deposition of IgG and C3. A repeat scalp biopsy revealed more prominent epidermal/dermal clefts, fibrosis, mixed infiltrate with neutrophils, lymphocytes, histiocytes, and plasma cells, as well as prominent follicular/adventitial dermal clefts with perifollicular neutrophils. Given the combination of clefts, perijunctional neutrophils, and positive DIF findings, it became clear that this eruption represented the Brunsting–Perry variant of cicatricial pemphigoid. Here, we illustrated that a neutrophil‐rich form of cicatricial pemphigoid can masquerade as a neutrophil‐mediated scarring alopecia. In evaluating a specimen suspected to be a neutrophil‐mediated scarring alopecia, one should be alert to the presence of subepidermal and perifollicular clefting, and consider cicatricial pemphigoid.
Prognostic value of transient pattern visual evoked potentials in children with cerebral visual impairment
Authors: Howes Jessica , Thompson Dorothy , Liasis Alki , Oluonye Ngozi , Dale Naomi , Bowman Richard
Published: November 2021

Aim

To investigate whether pattern reversal visual evoked potentials (PRVEPs) could predict future visual acuity in infants with cerebral visual impairment (CVI).

Method

Fifty‐five children (27 males, 28 females) with severe CVI seen in the ophthalmology department of a specialist children’s hospital were identified retrospectively. Behavioural visual acuity and visual evoked potentials (VEPs) at presentation (time 1, T1) were compared with final visual acuity at late preschool/early school age (time 2, T2). Predictors of visual acuity at T2 were identified using univariate and multivariate logistic and linear regression analysis.

Results

Median age was 14 months at T1 (range: 6–44mo) and 63 months at T2 (range: 29–150mo). The presence of a PRVEP produced by a check width of 50′ (minutes of arc) or smaller (T1) predicted (p=0.05) the presence of measurable preferential looking acuity at T2. The presence of PRVEP to check widths of 25′ or smaller (T1) predicted (p=0.02) better preferential looking acuity (logMAR‐equivalent) scores at T2. The latter association was independent of presenting acuity at T1.

Interpretation

The presence of PRVEPs to check widths of 50′ and 25′ in infancy provided useful information. VEPs in young children with CVI may have prognostic value regarding future acuity.
Dental continuing professional development ‐ Part II: The Malta CPD Pilot Project
Authors: Meli Attard Ann , Bartolo Adam , Millar Brian J.
Published: November 2021

Introduction

Continuing professional development (CPD) remains voluntary in nine European countries. Evidence suggests a move towards mandatory CPD across Europe with the objective of harmonisation of dental CPD. Although the importance of CPD is acknowledged, the literature regarding its effectiveness is limited and under debate.

Aims and objectives

The main aim was to measure the effectiveness and success of a new CPD programme with the objective to devise a strategy, guidelines and recommendations for the establishment of a dental CPD programme in Malta.

Methodology

This project was divided into two phases; Phase 1 was the analysis of a survey sent out to 135 members of the Dental Association of Malta. Phase 2 involved the evaluation of eight verifiable CPD events, through pre‐event and post‐event tests and feedback forms, to investigate the effect on short‐term knowledge retention and the respective satisfaction levels of participants at each event.

Results

The survey had a response rate of 78%. The CPD events in Phase 2 all showed statistically significant improvement in short‐term knowledge retention on each subject (p < 0.05). Satisfaction levels ranged from 70% to 99%.

Conclusions

The information gathered from this project was used to provide guidelines and recommendations for the local regulatory body and CPD providers for the set‐up of a dental CPD framework and programmes in Malta, a country where dental CPD is still voluntary. This article is the second article from a two‐part series of articles about the Malta Dental CPD Pilot project.