bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Durability of switched therapy after failure of WHO-recommended antiretroviral therapy regimens in a resource-limited setting
Authors: Lumu Ivan , Musaazi Joseph , Castelnuovo Barbara
Published: July 2022

Objective:

The study investigated the durability of switched therapy and factors associated with the viral rebound among patients on second-line antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Uganda.

Design:

A retrospective dynamic cohort of adults initiated on second-line ART after virological failure to first-line ART.

Methods:

Patients on second-line treatment for at least 6 months between 2007 and 2017 were included. Patients were followed, until they experienced a viral rebound (viral load ≥200 copies/ml). Cumulative probability of viral rebounds and factors associated with viral rebound were determined using Kaplan–Meier methods and Cox proportional hazard models.

Results:

One thousand, one hundred and one participants were enrolled of which 64% were women, the median age was 37 years [interquartile range (IQR) 31–43]. The preswitch median CD4+ cell count and viral load were 128 cells/μl (IQR 58–244) and 45 978 copies/ml (IQR 13 827–139 583), respectively. During the 4190.37 person-years, the incidence rate of viral rebound was 83.29 [95% confidence interval (CI) 74.99–92.49] per 1000 person-years. The probability of viral rebound at 5 and 10 years was 0.29 (95% CI 0.26–0.32) and 0.62 (95% CI 0.55–0.69), respectively. The median rebound-free survival was 8.7 years. Young adults (18–24 years) [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 2.49, 95% CI 1.32–4.67], preswitch viral load at least 100 000 copies/ml (aHR 1.53, 95% CI 1.22–1.92), and atazanavir/ritonavir (ATV/r)-based second-line (aHR 1.73, 95% CI 1.29–2.32) were associated with an increased risk of viral rebound.

Conclusion:

Switched therapies are durable for 8 years after failure of recommended regimens. A high preswitch viral load, ATV/r-based regimens, and young adulthood are risk factors for viral rebound, which underscores the need for more durable regimens and differentiated care services.
Orbicularis-Tarsus-Orbital Septum Fixation Technique in Asian Double-Eyelid Blepharoplasty: a Retrospective Study
Authors: Gu Tianyi , Dong Guoxuan , Teng Li , Lu Jianjian
Published: July 2022

Background:

The skin-tarsus-skin and orbicularis-levator fixation approaches are the 2 most applied techniques for double-eyelid blepharoplasty in China. However, both approaches have their own disadvantages. To achieve stable and dynamic upper eyelid creases, we take the merits of the 2 techniques. In this study, our orbicularis-tarsus-orbital septum fixation technique is introduced and evaluated.

Methods:

By transversely opening and turning down the anterior orbital septum, we created the septum roll anchored to the tarsus and the pretarsal muscular flap. As the motion transmitter, the roll could receive the pulling power of the levator aponeurosis transmitted to the tarsus and the septum respectively. With the help of the skin-septum roll-skin sutures, the roll passed on the pulling power directly to the pretarsal skin and thus the upper eyelid crease was formed.

Results:

This study identified 105 Chinese patients (210 eyes) who underwent this technique in our department between September 2020 and May 2021. The follow-up ranged from 7 to 15 months. 90, 6, and 7 patients were satisfied, somewhat satisfied, and somewhat unsatisfied with the postoperative outcome, respectively. The satisfaction rate was 91.43% (96/105). Two patients were unsatisfied with the outcome, including 1 case of bilateral crease disappearance and 1 case of sunken upper eyelid.

Conclusions:

The orbicularis-tarsus-orbital septum fixation technique is safe and effective for double-eyelid blepharoplasty. This technique helps to form stable upper eyelid creases. Meanwhile, it is easy to achieve ideal curve and symmetry. By preserving the pretarsal tissue and using the orbital septum, sunken scar formation can be avoided.
Evaluating the Role of Circulating MicroRNAs to Aid Therapeutic Decision Making for Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Breast Cancer
Authors: Davey Matthew G. , Casey Maire Caitlin , McGuire Andrew , Waldron Ronan M. , Paganga Maxwell , Holian Emma , Newell John , Heneghan Helen M. , McDermott Ailbhe M. , Keane Maccon M. , Lowery Aoife J. , Miller Nicola , Kerin Michael J.
Published: July 2022

Objective:

To evaluate whether circulating micro ribonucleic acids (miRNAs) predict response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) and inform decision-making in breast cancer patients.

Introduction:

Deciphering response to NAC remains a challenge. Those unlikely to respond may benefit from NAC de-escalation before completion, while “responders” should complete treatment. Establishing biomarkers which identify response to NAC is imperative to personalize treatment strategies. miRNAs are small noncoding RNA molecules which modulate genetic expression. miRNAs are believed to inform response to NAC.

Methods:

This prospective, multicenter trial (NCT01722851) recruited 120 patients treated with NAC across 8 Irish treatment sites. Predetermined miRNAs were quantified from patient whole bloods using relative quantification polymerase chain reactiond. Venous sampling was performed at diagnosis and midway during NAC. Trends in miRNA expression between timepoints were correlated with treatment response. Data analysis was performed using R 3.2.3.

Results:

A total of 120 patients were included (median age: 55 years). Overall, 49.2% had luminal breast cancers (59/120), 17.5% luminal B (L/HER2) (21/120), 12.5% human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 positive (HER2+) (15/120), and 20.8% triple negative disease (25/120). In total, 46.7% of patients responded to NAC (56/125) and 26.7% achieved a pathological complete response (pCR) (32/120). For patients with L/HER2, increased Let-7a predicted response to NAC (P=0.049), while decreased miR-145 predicted response to NAC in HER2+ (P=0.033). For patients with luminal breast cancers, reduced Let-7a predicted achieving a pCR (P=0.037) and reduced miR-145 predicted achieving a pCR to NAC in HER2+ (P=0.027).

Conclusions:

This study illustrates the potential value of circulatory miRNA measurement in predicting response to NAC. Further interrogation of these findings may see miRNAs personalize therapeutic decision-making for patients undergoing NAC for early breast cancer.
Polygenic Risk Prediction in Diverticulitis
Authors: De Roo Ana C. , Chen Yanhua , Du Xiaomeng , Handelman Samuel , Byrnes Mary , Regenbogen Scott E. , Speliotes Elizabeth K. , Maguire Lillias H.
Published: July 2022

Objective:

To derive and validate a polygenic risk score (PRS) to predict the occurrence and severity of diverticulitis and to understand the potential for incorporation of a PRS in current decision-making.

Background:

PRS quantifies genetic variation into a continuous measure of risk. There is a need for improved risk stratification to guide surgical decision-making that could be fulfilled by PRS. It is unknown how surgeons might integrate PRS in decision-making.

Methods:

We derived a PRS with 44 single-nucleotide polymorphisms associated with diverticular disease in the UK Biobank and validated this score in the Michigan Genomics Initiative (MGI). We performed a discrete choice experiment of practicing colorectal surgeons. Surgeons rated the influence of clinical factors and a hypothetical polygenic risk prediction tool.

Results:

Among 2812 MGI participants with diverticular disease, 1964 were asymptomatic, 574 had mild disease, and 274 had severe disease. PRS was associated with occurrence and severity. Patients in the highest PRS decile were more likely to have diverticulitis [odds ratio (OR)=1.84; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.42–2.38)] and more likely to have severe diverticulitis (OR=1.61; 95% CI, 1.04–2.51) than the bottom 50%. Among 213 surveyed surgeons, extreme disease-specific factors had the largest utility (3 episodes in the last year, +74.4; percutaneous drain, + 69.4). Factors with strongest influence against surgery included 1 lifetime episode (−63.3), outpatient management (−54.9), and patient preference (−39.6). PRS was predicted to have high utility (+71).

Conclusions:

A PRS derived from a large national biobank was externally validated, and found to be associated with the incidence and severity of diverticulitis. Surgeons have clear guidance at clinical extremes, but demonstrate equipoise in intermediate scenarios. Surgeons are receptive to PRS, which may be most useful in marginal clinical situations. Given the current lack of accurate prognostication in recurrent diverticulitis, PRS may provide a novel approach for improving patient counseling and decision-making.
Postoperative Serum Hyperamylasemia Adds Sequential Value to the Fistula Risk Score in Predicting Pancreatic Fistula after Pancreatoduodenectomy
Authors: Bannone Elisa , Marchegiani Giovanni , Vollmer Charles , Perri Giampaolo , Procida Giuseppa , Corvino Gaetano , Peressotti Sara , Vacca Pier Giuseppe , Salvia Roberto , Bassi Claudio
Published: July 2022

Objective:

To evaluate whether postoperative serum hyperamylasemia (POH), with drain fluid amylase (DFA) and C-reactive protein (CRP), improves the Fistula Risk Score (FRS) accuracy in assessing the risk of a postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF).

Summary Background Data:

The FRS predicts POPF occurrence using intraoperative predictors with good accuracy but intrinsic limits.

Methods:

Outcomes of patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomies between 2016 and 2021 were evaluated across FRS-risk zones and POH occurrence. POH consists of serum amylase activity greater than the upper limit of normal (52 U/l), persisting within the first 48 hours postoperatively (postoperative day –POD– 1 and 2).

Results:

Out of 905 pancreaticoduodenectomies, some FRS elements, namely soft pancreatic texture (odds ratio (OR) 11.6), pancreatic duct diameter (OR 0.80), high-risk pathologic diagnosis (OR 1.54), but not higher blood loss (OR 0.99), were associated with POH. POH was an independent predictor of POPF, which occurred in 46.8% of POH cases (P<0.001). Once POH occurs, POPF incidence rises from 3.8% to 42.9%, 22.9% to 41.7%, and 48.9% to 59.2% in patients intraoperatively classified at low, moderate and high FRS risk, respectively. The predictive ability of multivariable models adding POD 1 drain fluid amylase, POD 1-2 POH and POD 3 C-reactive protein to the FRS showed progressively and significantly higher accuracy (AUC FRS=0.82, AUC FRS-DFA=0.85, AUC FRS-DFA-POH=0.87, AUC FRS-DFA-POH-CRP=0.90, DeLong always P<0.05).

Conclusions:

POPF risk assessment should follow a dynamic process. The stepwise retrieval of early, postoperative biological markers improves clinical risk stratification by increasing the granularity of POPF risk estimates and affords a possible therapeutic window before the actual morbidity of POPF occurs.
Revisiting the human ‘interaction engine’: comparative approaches to social action coordination
Authors: Heesen Raphaela , Fröhlich Marlen
Published: July 2022

The evolution of language was likely facilitated by a special predisposition for social interaction, involving a set of communicative and cognitive skills summarized as the ‘interaction engine'. This assemblage seems to emerge early in development, to be found universally across cultures, and to enable participation in sophisticated joint action through the addition of spoken language. Yet, new evidence on social action coordination and communication in nonhuman primates warrants an update of the interaction engine hypothesis, particularly with respect to the evolutionary origins of its specific ingredients. However, one enduring problem for comparative research results from a conceptual gulf between disciplines, rendering it difficult to test concepts derived from human interaction research in nonhuman animals. The goal of this theme issue is to make such concepts accessible for comparative research, to promote a fruitful interdisciplinary debate on social action coordination as a new arena of research, and to enable mutual fertilization between human and nonhuman interaction research. In consequence, we here consider relevant theoretical and empirical research within and beyond this theme issue to revisit the interaction engine's shared, convergently derived and uniquely derived ingredients preceding (or perhaps in the last case, succeeding) human language.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Revisiting the human ‘interaction engine’: comparative approaches to social action coordination’.
The coordination of attention and action in great apes and humans
Authors: Tomasello Michael
Published: July 2022

Great apes can discern what others are attending to and even direct others' attention to themselves in flexible ways. But they seemingly do not coordinate their attention with one another recursively—understanding that the other is monitoring their attention just as they are monitoring hers—in acts of joint attention, at least not in the same way as young human children. Similarly, great apes collaborate with partners in many flexible ways, but they seemingly do not coordinate with others to form mutually obligating joint goals and commitments, nor regulate the collaboration via acts of intentional communication, at least not in the same way as young human children. The hypothesis defended here is that it is precisely in their capacities to coordinate attention and action with others—that is, in their capacities for shared intentionality—that humans are most clearly distinguished from other great apes.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Revisiting the human ‘interaction engine’: comparative approaches to social action coordination’.
Anti-apoptotic BH3-only proteins inhibit Bak-dependent apoptosis
Authors: Ruehl Sebastian , Guy Clifford S. , Li Zhenrui , Yang Mao , Moldoveanu Tudor , Green Douglas R.
Published: July 2022

Bcl-2 family proteins regulate induction of intrinsic apoptosis through initiating mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization (MOMP). Activation of the MOMP effectors Bax and Bak is controlled by interplay levels of anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins (e.g. Mcl-1) and pro-apoptotic BH3-only proteins (e.g. BIM). Using a genome-wide CRISPR-dCas9 transactivation screen we identified two Bcl-2 family proteins, BNIP5 and Bcl-G, as inhibitors of Bak, but not Bax induced apoptosis. BNIP5 was able to block Bak activation in different cell types and in response to various cytotoxic therapies. The BH3 domain of BNIP5 was both necessary and sufficient to block Bak activation. Mechanistically, the BH3 domains of BNIP5 and Bcl-G act as a selective Bak activators, while not inhibiting anti-apoptotic proteins. This led to increased binding of activated Bak to Mcl-1, which prevented apoptosis engagement, identifying BNIP5 and Bcl-G as anti-apoptotic BH3-only proteins.
Combined sensor-based monitoring of mycothiol redox potential and DNA-damage response in Corynebacterium glutamicum
Authors: Hartmann Fabian Stefan Franz , Anastasiou Ioannis , Weiß Tamara , Lkhaasuren Tsenguunmaa , Seibold Gerd Michael
Published: July 2022

Excessive amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) can cause irreversible damages to essential cellular components such as DNA. Genetically encoded biosensors targeting oxidative stress and DNA-stress have emerged to a powerful analytical tool to assess physiological states in a non-invasive manner. In this study, we aimed to combine the redox biosensor protein Mrx1-roGFP2 with a transcriptional biosensor for DNA-damage based on the PrecA promoter fused to a reporter gene (e2-crimson) in Corynebacterium glutamicum. Therefore, the redox biosensor strains C. glutamicum WT_Mrx1-roGFP2 and the mycothiol (MSH)-deficient mutant strain C. glutamicum ΔmshC_Mrx1-roGFP2 were equipped with the DNA-stress reporter plasmid pJC1_PrecA_e2-crimson. Exposure of the double-sensor equipped C. glutamicum WT strain to hypochlorite resulted in an oxidative redox shift, accompanied by an induction of the DNA-stress reporter system. In absence of the major non-enzymatic antioxidant MSH, the induction of the DNA-stress response was even more pronounced. This confirms the linkage of oxidative stress and DNA-damage response, and therefore making antioxidants a crucial player to protect DNA. Furthermore, exposure of the double biosensor strains to a DNA-damage inducing agent resulted in an oxidative redox shift. These results suggest a direct link of DNA-damage and oxidative stress response in C. glutamicum. Finally, we observed that inhibition of cell wall biosynthesis by penicillin caused both an oxidative redox shift and a DNA-damage response in C. glutamicum. The excellent compatibility of Mrx1-roGFP2 with E2-Crimson shown here provides a powerful combinatorial biosensor concept for in-depth studies of redox-related physiology in future studies.
Rhizocarpon geographicumlichen discloses a highly diversified microbiota carrying antibiotic resistance and Persistent Organic Pollutants tolerance
Authors: Miral Alice , Kautsky Adam , Alves-Carvalho Susete , Cottret Ludovic , Guillerm-Erckelboudt Anne-Yvonne , Buguet Manon , Rouaud Isabelle , Tranchimand Sylvain , Tomasi Sophie , Bartoli Claudia
Published: July 2022

As rock-inhabitants, lichens are exposed to extreme and fluctuating abiotic conditions associated with poor sources of nutriments. These extreme conditions confer to lichens the unique ability to develop protective mechanisms. Consequently, lichen-associated microbes disclose highly versatile lifestyles and ecological plasticity, enabling them to withstand extreme environments. Because of their ability to grow on poor and extreme habitats, bacteria associated with lichens can tolerate a wide range of pollutants and on the other hand secrete antimicrobial compounds. In addition, lichen-associated bacteria were described to harbor ecological functions crucial for the evolution of the lichen holobiont. Nevertheless, the ecological features of lichen-associated microbes are still underestimated. To explore the untapped ecological diversity of lichen-associated bacteria, we adopted a novel culturomic approach on the crustose lichenRhizocarpon geographicum. We sampledR. geographicumin French habitats exposed to oil spill and we combined 9 culturing methods with 16S rRNA sequencing to capture the largest bacterial diversity. A deep functional analysis of the lichen-associated bacterial collection showed the presence of a set of bacterial strains resistant to a wide range of antibiotics and displaying tolerance to Persistent Organic Pollutants (POP). Our study is a starting point to explore the ecological features of the lichen microbiota.
Responsible leadership, job satisfaction and duty orientation: lessons from the manufacturing sector in Ghana
Authors: Ansong Abraham , Agyeiwaa Angelina Afua , Gnankob Robert Ipiin
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the influence of responsible leadership on employee duty orientation in the manufacturing sector of Ghana by using job satisfaction as a mediating variable.

Design/methodology/approach

This study relied on the quantitative approach and explanatory research design for the execution. This study gathered data from 325 employees across three manufacturing firms and applied the partial least squares structural equation modelling technique to test hypotheses.

Findings

This study established that responsible leadership had significant positive relationship with duty orientation and job satisfaction. The findings further disclosed that job satisfaction was positively related to duty orientation. This study provided evidence that job satisfaction serves as a mechanism through which responsible leadership could influence duty orientation.

Practical implications

This study recommends that for manufacturing firms to enhance job satisfaction, which will eventually lead to employees’ demonstrating duty orientation, the employers and relevant stakeholders such as board of directors and shareholders should emphasise responsible leadership traits among various managers and supervisors.

Originality/value

This study contributes to knowledge in a novel research area. It adds to empirical evidence by highlighting the possible variables that may influence employees to engage in duty orientation.
Empowering leadership and employee creativity: the mediating roles of work engagement and knowledge sharing
Authors: Joo Baek-Kyoo , Yim Jeong-Ha , Jin Young Sim , Han Soo Jeoung
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the relationship between empowering leadership and employee creativity and the mediating roles of work engagement and knowledge sharing in this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the results of a survey of 302 knowledge workers from a leading telecommunications company in South Korea, the relationships among the variables empowering leadership, work engagement and knowledge sharing on employee creativity were analyzed using conducted confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling. This study conducted bootstrap analyses to test the mediating effects.

Findings

Empowering leadership was positively and significantly associated with work engagement and knowledge sharing. Work engagement was significantly related to knowledge sharing and employee creativity. In turn, knowledge sharing was significantly associated with employee creativity. The direct effect of empowering leadership on employee creativity was nonsignificant, but this study found a significant indirect effect of empowering leadership on employee creativity via the significant mediating roles of work engagement and knowledge sharing.

Originality/value

This study introduced empowering leadership that may work for knowledge workers who create new ideas by analyzing data from the knowledge workers’ perceptions of their leaders in the workplace. The intuitive linkage between work engagement and knowledge sharing was empirically verified in this study. This study’s findings and implications provide direction for knowledge workers and how their managers should support employees’ work environment and activities.
University industry collaboration process: a systematic review of literature
Authors: Baleeiro Passos Joana , Valle Enrique Daisy , Costa Dutra Camila , Schwengber ten Caten Carla
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The innovation process demands an interaction between environment agents, knowledge generators and policies of incentive for innovation and not only development by companies. Universities have gradually become the core of the knowledge production system and, therefore, their role regarding innovation has become more important and diversified. This study is aimed at identifying the mechanisms of university–industry (U–I) collaboration, as well as the operationalization steps of the U–I collaboration process.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is aimed at identifying, based on a systematic literature review, the mechanisms of university–industry (U–I) collaboration, as well as the operationalization steps of the U–I collaboration process.

Findings

The analysis of the 72 selected articles enabled identifying 15 mechanisms of U–I collaboration, proposing a new classification for such mechanisms and developing a framework presenting the operationalization steps of the interaction process.

Originality/value

In this paper, the authors screened nearly 1,500 papers and analyzed in detail 86 papers addressing U–I collaboration, mechanisms of U–I collaboration and operationalization steps of the U–I collaboration process. This paper provides a new classification for such mechanisms and developing a framework presenting the operationalization steps of the interaction process. This research contributes to both theory and practice by highlighting managerial aspects and stimulating academic research on such timely topic.
The cognitive interview: comparing face-to-face and video-mediated interviews
Authors: Shahvaroughi Ahmad , Bahrami Ehsan Hadi , Hatami Javad , Shahvaroughi Mohammad Ali , Paulo Rui M.
Published: July 2022

Purpose

Eyewitness testimony can determine the outcome of criminal investigations. The cognitive interview (CI) has been widely used to collect informative and accurate accounts. However, face-to-face interviews have been restricted during the current pandemic, raising the need for using video-conferencing. The authors tested whether virtual interviews could produce elaborate accounts from eyewitnesses and if the CI superiority effect against a structured interview (SI) could be fully replicated online.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used a 2 × 2 factorial design with interview condition (CI vs SI) and environment (face-to-face vs virtual) manipulated between-subjects. A total of 88 participants were randomly assigned to one of the four conditions. Participants watched a mock robbery and were interviewed 48 h later using either the SI or the CI. Both interviews contained the same structure and interview phases but only the CI included its key cognitive mnemonics/ instructions. Both sessions were either face-to-face or online.

Findings

Participants interviewed with the CI recalled more information than participants interviewed with the SI, regardless of the interview environment. Both environments produced a comparable amount of recall. Report accuracy was high for all groups.

Practical implications

This can be crucial to inform police practices and research in this field by suggesting investigative interviews can be conducted virtually in situations such as the current pandemic or when time and resources do not allow for face-to-face interviewing.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study showing that the CI superiority effect can be replicated online and that a fully remote CI can produce elaborate accounts.
Embedding coproduction in organisational culture and practice: a case study
Authors: Repper Julie , Eve Julian
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the challenges of coproduction at individual, team, service, organisational and system level and critically describes the work of one organization to describe ways in which coproduction can be facilitated.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a case study of the approaches developed (coproduced) within an independent not-for-profit mental health consultancy organization to facilitate coproduction at every level.

Findings

Although much is published about coproduction in research, there is relatively little guidance relating to coproduction in practice. This paper describes the meaning, purpose and impact of coproduction at different levels and gives examples of how it can be achieved. The learning from his work is drawn together to present a series of findings with recommendations including: inclusion, managing power difference, accommodating difference, generating new ways forward rather than debating and selecting existing options.

Originality/value

The literature on coproduction in practice is replete with guidance rather than examples of good practice. It is also apparent that the ambition for coproduction has progressed rapidly from coproduction between service providers and people using services to coproduction with all relevant stakeholders. This paper provides contemporary examples of coproduction in different forms and at different levels with attention to ways of overcoming challenges.
Blockchain for electronic medical record: assessing stakeholders’ readiness for successful blockchain adoption in health-care
Authors: Nicolai Benedetta , Tallarico Salvatore , Pellegrini Luisa , Gastaldi Luca , Vella Giacomo , Lazzini Simone
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to provide a helpful tool for those who plan to implement blockchain-based solutions for the governance of the electronic medical record (EMR) in health-care settings. The goals are to identify each type of stakeholders involved in these projects and to clarify the relevance, to achieve success, of their readiness, intended as availability and ability to adopt blockchain.

Design/methodology/approach

The chosen methodology is a multiple case study on three initiatives that used blockchain to manage EMRs. This study relied on multiple sources of evidence. The primary data consisted of two rounds of semi-structured interviews with different informants. This study followed a grounded theory approach and performed within- and cross-case analyses.

Findings

This study identified the types of stakeholders – nodes and not-nodes – of the network and how their readiness level affects the implementation of blockchain-based projects applied to EMR. The nodes (e.g. patients and doctors) are pivotal in making the network working once this has been constructed. Out of the four readiness dimensions suggested by literature, motivational readiness, has the higher impact. Not-nodes stakeholders play a pivotal role in the project’s pre-implementation phase. For them, structural readiness is the dimension with the higher relevance.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, it is the first time that a paper analyses the differences between nodes and not-nodes stakeholders of the blockchain network, in terms not only of type but also of readiness. Identifying the readiness level to implement successful projects is a fundamental step that has never been analysed in the health field.
An observational study on IAPT waiting times before, during and after the COVID-19 pandemic using descriptive time-series data
Authors: Larsson Patrick , Lloyd Russell , Taberham Emily , Rosairo Maggie
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore waiting times in improving access to psychological therapies (IAPT) services before and throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. The paper aims to help develop a better understanding of waiting times in IAPT so that interventions can be developed to address them.

Design/methodology/approach

IAPT national data reports was analysed to determine access and in-treatment waiting times before, during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Time-series data was used to examine referral patterns, waiting list size and waiting times between the period of November 2018 and January 2022. The data covers all regions in England where an IAPT service has been commissioned.

Findings

There was a dramatic drop in referrals to IAPT services when lockdown started. Waiting list size for all IAPT services in the country reduced, as did incomplete and completed waits. The reduction in waiting times was short-lived, and longer waits are returning.

Practical implications

This paper aims to contribute to the literature on IAPT waiting times both in relation to, and outside of, COVID-19. It is hoped that the conclusions will generate discussion about addressing long waits to treatment for psychological therapy and encourage further research.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, there is no published research examining the performance of IAPT waiting times to second appointment. The paper also contributes to an understanding of how IAPT waiting times are measured and explores challenges with the system itself. Finally, it offers an overview on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on waiting time performance nationally.
Pursuing belonging through consumption: refining the belonging process framework
Authors: Vargas-Bianchi Lizardo
Published: July 2022

Purpose

Much research has been conducted on how consumption is related to human relationships. Only a scarcity of studies has examined brand and product selection, as well as the consumption activities that individuals follow when pursuing a sense of group belonging. The literature comprises a single theoretical framework describing this phenomenon, a nascent proposition on which further research remains undeveloped. This study aims to examine the transferability of that theoretical framework in a different context to that used for its elaboration and its descriptive scope on purchasing goods and engaging in consumption activities to leverage belonging.

Design/methodology/approach

A deductive qualitative case study and pattern matching analysis technique were used, followed by structural coding analysis of interview data.

Findings

Findings reveal that the model is transferable, although its conceptual scope faces limitations. Individuals follow paths that need little or no excessive calculation in identifying a group to which they desire to belong, or the conduits to do so, and in certain cases the sense of belonging mediated by consumption is independent of display and confirmation by others. A refinement of the studied theoretical framework was carried out based on the findings, proposing an alternative framework termed the belonging-oriented consumption model, which provides a basis for future research on consumption related to pursuing a sense of belonging.

Research limitations/implications

This study was limited to analysing those events in which consumption for the purpose of pursuing group belonging is intentional. However, much of our consumption happens in a nuanced and unreflective way, and the same must go for consumption related to belonging.

Practical implications

The symbolic meaning that consumers attach to products and brands can vary based on how they are used and how consumers pursue a sense of belonging. The personality and distinctiveness of a product is influenced by the relationship between individuals and its use. Managers can establish concepts and elements of brand identity that ease brand display as a sign of belonging. They can also promote brand salience when the brand is used as a belonging conduit.

Originality/value

This study is significant because there is limited development in the academic literature, nor agreement among the authors, of a model that describes the components of consumption oriented towards pursuing a sense of group belonging. The author proposes the belonging-oriented consumption model, which provides a theoretical basis for future research on this topic.
Impact of social isolation due to COVID-19 on vulnerable geriatric population: a study of physical and psychological wellbeing
Authors: Pujari Purvi , Kumar Anuj , Pujari Pranjali
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to gain a deeper understanding of the impact of social isolation due to COVID-19 on the vulnerable geriatric population.

Design/methodology/approach

Ten individual interviews of people above 70 years of age were conducted in 2021. The data was collected through interviews and observation. The authors observed the people from the age.

Findings

The geriatric population faced physical challenges like poor sleep and digestive health along with neglect of their persisting ailments, which needed attention. Mental issues were also very serious, such as fear of death, anxiety, stress and depression. This paper urges the policymakers to focus on coming up with support systems for the geriatric population and finding long-term solutions to mitigate the repercussions faced by them.

Originality/value

This paper attempts to underline the mostly unnoticed physical and psychological issues troubling usually neglected strata of the population as they do not make a part of an income-earning segment.
Dividing up the bill: Interactions between how parasitoids manipulate host behaviour and who pays the cost
Authors: Adamo Shelley A.
Published: July 2022

Controlling host behaviour can be costly for parasites. In some parasitic systems, such as insect parasitoids, this physiological cost can be paid for by the mother parasite, her offspring or both.

Parasitoid wasps provide examples of how individual parasites in a host–parasite system can vary in their opportunity, means and motive (i.e. fitness benefits) for manipulating host behaviour.

Changes in host behaviour that occur very soon after infection are typically paid for by the mother parasitoid. She has the greatest opportunity (offspring are often still eggs), the means (neuroactive venoms) and benefits by promoting her offspring's success.

Changes in host behaviour that occur late in the development of the offspring (e.g. host bodyguard behaviour) often hinge on some behaviour of the offspring (e.g. the exiting of the host). In these cases, the cost is paid largely by the offspring. The offspring have the greater opportunity, the means (e.g. secreting compounds into the host) and directly benefit by their increased survival.

Gene delivery agents, such as symbiotic viruses, allow a reduction in the direct cost of parasitic manipulation to the parasite because the host is induced to use its own resources to produce the compounds needed to alter its behaviour. However, this method leads to indirect costs that are paid for by the offspring, due to a reduction in the host's resources that are available for their own growth.

In gregarious systems, the possibility of cheating among the offspring (i.e. some individuals paying less than others to alter host behaviour) may select for modes of control that make cheating difficult.

Determining who pays the physiological cost of manipulating host behaviour, and why, promises exciting insights into the evolution of parasitic manipulation in these systems.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Different in so many ways: Exploring consumer, health service staff, and academic partnerships in a research advisory group through rapid ethnography
Authors: Cox Ruth , Molineux Matthew , Kendall Melissa , Miller Elizabeth , Tanner Bernadette
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Consumer and community involvement (CCI) encompasses the range of consumer engagement activities across the research cycle. Research advisory groups (RAGs) are a common method of CCI that may empower the consumer voice in research. However, there is limited evaluation of RAGs to guide occupational therapists considering this as a CCI strategy in research. The aim of this study was to explore the processes and outcomes of a RAG partnership for an eDelphi study.

Methods

Rapid ethnography enabled a rich, thick description of the RAG through triangulation of field notes, a monthly research team log, focus groups, and an individual interview. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Recruitment targeted consumers, health service staff, and academics with experience in CCI to enhance the diversity of perspectives guiding the eDelphi study. The RAG met four times over 4 months.

Findings

Seven diverse RAG members were recruited resulting in a RAG of 12 members, including the research team that included two consumers. Reflexive thematic analysis resulted in an overarching theme: Different in so many ways, which reinforced that authentic CCI in research continues to be rare even for stakeholders with experience in CCI. There were four subthemes: Set up for success, Authentic and capable facilitation, Structures and strategies for genuine partnerships, and A ripple effect of benefits. Findings added to the limited research regarding RAGs and highlighted that a short‐term RAG with 12 diverse stakeholders was an effective strategy to foster mutually beneficial and meaningful collaboration. Partnering with two consumer co‐researchers in RAG planning, implementation, and evaluation was central to success.

Conclusion

Findings demonstrated that with careful co‐planning and recruitment, capable facilitation with support of a committed research team (inclusive of consumers), and empowering meeting processes and structures, a short‐term RAG resulted in many benefits to participants and enhanced research outcomes.
Working with denial in families dealing with child abuse: A scoping review of the resolutions approach
Authors: Sepers Annemariek J. W. , Maric Marija , Boelen Paul A. , Mooren Trudy T. M.
Published: July 2022

The Resolutions Approach (RA) is a solution‐based intervention that has a unique way of dealing with parental denial of child abuse occurrences. The aim of this scoping review is to summarise knowledge about the benefits of the RA and identify areas for future research. After describing the theoretical background, the intervention steps are illustrated. Next, results of a systematic literature search on the effectiveness and other clinical benefits of the RA are presented. Finally, we provide suggestions for future research. Our search identified two published articles and one dissertation. Findings indicate that the RA might be useful in stopping child abuse and in improving cooperation between families and professionals. Parents experienced more control over their situation, and guardians perceived the method to be transparent. The RA is a well‐described method that respectfully deals with families in which a lack of safety is observed. Future empirical research on the RA is necessary.

Practitioner points

The Resolutions Approach aims to stop and prevent child abuse in families when there are different perspectives on the abuse.

Our study reveals that there are signs of a clinical benefit of the RA in establishing a safe family environment for the child.

Families experienced more control over their situation, while guardians perceived the method to be transparent.

For most families participating in the RA, a supportive social network could be established.
Plainly Wrong
Authors: Perry Adam
Published: July 2022

English law and wider common law jurisprudence have endorsed the condition that an appellate court should reject a trial judge's finding of fact which it believes is ‘plainly wrong’. Courts have not explained what makes a finding plainly wrong, however. Scholars have largely ignored the issue. This article draws on recent work in epistemology to provide a new analysis of the plainly wrong standard. Rationally, a court should not believe both (1) that a judge is a better fact finder and (2) that the judge was wrong to find some fact. If it does believe both, it should abandon the belief it is less confident of. So, a court should reject a judge's finding if it is more confident that it is wrong than that the judge is a better fact finder. This analysis has implications for review of administrative fact finding and for judicial deference generally.
Ropivacaine perineal infiltration for postpartum pain management in episiotomy repair: a double‐blind, randomised, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Cardaillac Claire , Planche Lucie , Dorion Agnès , Ploteau Stéphane , Thubert Thibault , Lefizelier Emelyne , Winer Norbert , Ducarme Guillaume
Published: July 2022

Objective

To investigate whether perineal infiltration of ropivacaine after episiotomy would decrease the incidence of postpartum pain compared with placebo.

Design

Two‐centre, double‐blind, randomised, controlled trial.

Setting

Two French maternity units, October 2017 to April 2020.

Population

272 women undergoing epidural analgesia with vaginal singleton delivery and mediolateral episiotomy at term (≥37 weeks) were randomly allocated perineal infiltration of ropivacaine (n = 135) or placebo (n = 137) in a 1:1 ratio before episiotomy repair.

Methods

Patients were followed at short term (12, 24, 48 h), mid‐term (day 7) and long‐term (3 and 6 months).

Main outcome measures

The primary outcome was the rate of perineal pain, defined by a Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) exceeding 3/10, in the mid‐term (day 7) postpartum period. Secondary outcomes were perineal pain (NPRS) and analgesic intake, quality of life (SF‐36), postpartum depression (EPDS), pain neuropathic component (DN4) and sexual health (FSFI).

Results

Perineal pain occurred to an equal extent in the ropivacaine and placebo groups at day 7 (34.2% versus 30.4%, odds ratio 1.1, 95% confidence interval 0.7–1.8, p = 0.63). Similar results were recorded in the short and long term. High rates of dyspareunia and postpartum depression were documented in both groups. No differences were highlighted between the groups in terms of analgesic intake, adverse events, pain neuropathic component and postpartum quality of life.

Conclusions

This study did not demonstrate any benefit of ropivacaine infiltration over placebo.
The Dynamics of Structural Transformation in Australia, 1960–2020*
Authors: Chindamo Philip , Martin Vance L.
Published: July 2022

A dynamic long‐run general equilibrium framework based on a structural vector error correction model is used to study the factors determining the structural transformation of the Australian economy from 1960 to 2020. Three sets of shocks are identified: demand shocks through aggregate consumption, supply shocks caused by changes in relative prices across industries, and shocks arising from deviations between observed and long‐run industry employment shares. The empirical results highlight the importance of all shocks in causing the structural transformation of the Australian economy across industries and over time. The results are found to be robust to a range of sensitivity experiments.
The effect of hospital discharge price increases on publicly reported measures of quality
Authors: Crespin Daniel J. , Whaley Christopher
Published: July 2022

Objective

To determine if increases in hospital discharge prices are associated with improvements in clinical quality or patient experience.

Data Sources

This study used Medicare cost report data and publicly available Medicare.gov Care Compare quality measures for approximately 3000 short‐term care general hospitals between 2011 and 2018.

Study Design

We separately regressed quality measure scores on a lag of case mix adjusted discharge price, hospital fixed effects, and year indicators. Clinical quality measures included 30‐day readmission rates for acute myocardial infarction, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart failure, hip and knee replacement, and pneumonia; risk‐adjusted 30‐day mortality rates for acute myocardial infarction, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart failure, and stroke; and 90‐day complication rate for hip and knee replacement. Patient experience measures included the summary star rating and 10 domain measures reported through the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems survey. We tested for heterogeneous effects by hospital ownership, number of beds, the commercial share of overall discharges, and market concentration.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

We linked hospitals identified in Medicare cost reports to Medicare.gov Care Compare quality measures. We excluded hospitals for which we could not identify a discharge price or that had an unrealistic price.

Principal Findings

There was no positive association between lagged discharge price and any clinical quality measure. For patient experience measures, a 2% increase in discharge price was not associated with overall patient satisfaction but was associated with small, statistically significant increases ranging from 0.01% to 0.02% (relative to mean scores) for seven of ten domain measures. There was a positive association for five of ten patient experience measures in competitive markets and one measure in both moderately concentrated and heavily concentrated markets.

Conclusions

We found no evidence that hospitals use higher prices to make investments in clinical quality; patient experience improved, but only negligibly.