bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The production and distribution of digital content in China. An historical account of the role of internet companies and videogames
Authors: Simon Jean Paul
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to shed some light on the history of the Chinese videogames industry, to document the growth of the leading companies and reveal how they have been morphing into platforms delivering constellations of apps and digital content (audiovisual, films, music, literature, video streaming […]). The paper tracks the development of digital services through the prism of videogames thereby showing how this industry emerged out of the deployment of the internet.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides an overview and a synthesis of what is known about the Chinese game industry, particularly based on consultancy documents and publications from firms. The paper is based on desk research, a review of literature and trade press and the analysis of the annual reports of the leading players (NetEase, Tencent […]).

Findings

The rise of videogames and the creation of specific company’s “ecosystems” illustrate the capacity of the industry to innovate and its significance for the Chinese economy. It reveals that gaming has been a cornerstone of many Chinese technology companies. The (young) companies came up with the innovative business models (FTP, virtual items) that were required to further expand the market. They found new ways to interact with their customers through communities and various tools.

Research limitations/implications

The paper relies on consultancy documents and publications from firms on heterogeneous data from industry and consultants. This approach comes with some limitations from a methodological viewpoint. It allows documenting the historical trends and describing the industrial landscape but not to qualify the relationships among players. Besides, the use of these sources leads to a greater focus on business models and a more limited one on the policy dimension. The latter is often perceived only through the glasses of the companies.

Practical implications

The data provided are meant to be useful to become familiar with the Chinese games industry.

Social implications

The paper indicates that the online game industry is a complex web of activities with tensions and contradictions between stakeholders (industry, government and consumers). In the case of China, there is a conflict between the willingness to liberalize the economy and the will to maintain an ideological monopoly through cultural industries.

Originality/value

Little research has been devoted to the role of videogames in emerging economies, to its specific features and to the relationships with the media industry and the information and communications technology sector. The contribution of this “digital native” to the production and distribution of digital content remains less studied. The paper provides an up-to-date overview of the Chinese case.
Experiencing e-assessment during COVID-19: an analysis of Indian students' perception
Authors: Kundu Arnab , Bej Tripti
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Presently the whole world has been experiencing a pandemic threat of coronavirus diesease 2019 (COVID-19) and at the same time facing unprecedented changes in everything including education. E-learning has evolved as the only alternative of knowledge transmission even in third world nations, and e-assessment has been playing an increasingly important role in this digital transformation of education. But how far and of what depth it has made its place among students' minds need to be studied to leverage its full potential to transform students' learning needs. This study reports an investigation made in this direction.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey consisting of 40 questions in Google Forms was conducted to collect primary data on students' perception of e-assessment among 200 Indian students pursuing higher education from several geographical locations. The quantitative methodological approach was followed. The data were analyzed descriptively and inferentially.

Findings

The results were analyzed based on the model of acceptance and usage of e-assessment (MAUE), and findings revealed that students' overall perception toward e-assessment was of moderate level and this perception varies depending on their gender, academic level, nature of the stream of study and their economic condition. Of the eight domains investigated, students showed better perception in the perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, compatibility, subjective norms and self-efficacy domains, while they cut a sorry figure in domains like awareness, resource facilitation and information technology (IT) support. It became evident from their responses that COVID was instrumental in enhancing their interest in e-assessment.

Social implications

The implication of this study lies in strengthening e-assessment by attending to the factors as noted in the MAUE in India and alike developing nations having huge space left for e-learning to reach a boom.

Originality/value

This is an empirical investigation conducted in India on the state of students' perception of the e-assessment in the backdrop of the COVID-19 outbreak. To do this work, the authors conducted online surveys, and the write-up of the findings focus on the survey data only.
Cruising in the COVID-19 pandemic era: Does perceived crowding really matter?
Authors: Castaldo Sandro , Penco Lara , Profumo Giorgia
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Cruising is one of the industries most susceptible to the current COVID-19 health crisis, due to the closed environment and the contacts between cruisers and crewmembers. This study aims to understand if the perceived crowding and the health risk perception related to the pandemic situation might threaten passengers’ intentions to cruise. The study also examines corporate reputation and trust, as well as social motivation and self-confidence, as possible predictors of consumers’ intention to cruise.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on the development of a structured questionnaire submitted online via social media. Overall, 553 individuals’ responses were used for understanding the factors that can affect consumers’ intention to cruise by performing several regression models.

Findings

The results show that the perceived crowding related to the pandemic does not seem to influence people’s intention to cruise. On the contrary, trust in the cruise company, corporate reputation, cruisers’ self-confidence and research of social motivation are positive predictors of intention to cruise, thus reducing the perceived risk’s deterring impact. The importance of such factors differs in respect of repeat and not repeat cruisers.

Practical implications

The study presents several managerial implications as it analyses the variables that could help cruise management cope better with COVID-19’s negative impact.

Originality/value

Despite the severity of COVID-19’s impact on the cruise industry, no studies have yet focussed on how the current pandemic situation may influence customers’ intention to cruise in the future.
Blockchain technology, macroeconomic uncertainty and investment efficiency
Authors: Chen Wanyi , He Kang , Wang Lanfang
Published: June 2021

Purpose

In addition to leading a new tide of global financial technology, blockchain delivers advantages in terms of risk control compared to traditional financial systems. By exploring the relationship between blockchain technology and macroeconomic uncertainty, this study aims to identify the hedge risk attribute of blockchain technology.

Design/methodology/approach

From a data set comprising 6,323 Chinese firms with A-shares listed on the Shenzhen and Shanghai Stock Exchanges in 2015–2018, the authors obtain the use of blockchain technology by listed companies on the basis of annual reports, news reports, search engines and prospectuses. These documents are then subjected to text analyses based on computer technology. Cross-sectional and propensity score matching analyses are used to ensure robustness.

Findings

The empirical results show that with an increase in macroeconomic uncertainty, blockchain technology can potentially enable companies to reduce their systemic risks and enhance their investment efficiency.

Originality/value

This study expands the literature on the application of blockchain technology, offers references for enterprises to address future risks based on specific macroeconomically uncertain environments and provides guidelines for governments to maintain financial market stability.
Guest editorialHappy endings and successful stories in public sector financial management: a lesson drawing perspective
Authors: Cohen Sandra , Manes-Rossi Francesca , Brusca Isabel , Caperchione Eugenio
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Public financial management has been characterized by the implementation of several innovations and reforms that embrace different areas and scope. These reforms aim at expenditure rationalization and efficiency enhancement, as well as the improvement of accountability and performance. Despite research having already paid attention to these innovations and reforms, the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats empirically faced by public sector organizations still need to be investigated. This editorial introduces the special issue by emphasizing on the lessons that can be learned from past reform experiences.

Design/methodology/approach

The editorial synthesizes some of the findings of the previous literature and evidences the necessity of both successful and unsuccessful stories, presenting a future agenda of research which emphasizes the use of case studies as a suitable method to get insights out of multiple experiences.

Findings

The four articles presented in this special issue, covering the topics of accrual accounting adoption, the use of financial statements by councilors, the use of performance information by politicians and the outsourcing of auditing in local governments, provide an overview of the efforts and challenges faced by public administrations by analyzing the influence of the institutional context, the relevance of political implications and their practical footprint.

Originality

In this special issue, four successful stories that touch upon multiple facets of public financial management in different country contexts are discussed, and they signal important takeaway messages for further reforms.
COVID-19 guidelines incorporated in the health and safety management policies of construction firms
Authors: Simpeh Fredrick , Amoah Christopher
Published: June 2021

Purpose

COVID-19 pandemic has ushered in a new norm of operation and has further presented new health and safety challenges in all sectors, including the construction sector. Consequently, several guidelines have been developed and instituted by various countries to prevent the spread of the disease among the citizenry. This paper aims to explore the COVID-19 guidelines incorporated in the health and safety management policies of construction firms in South Africa.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative approach was adopted for the study. Data was collected from construction companies by means of an open-ended questionnaire. The open-ended questionnaire was distributed by using the purposive sampling technique. The collected data was analysed with thematic content analysis.

Findings

The findings show that most construction companies have incorporated aspects of COVID-19 guidelines into the site health and safety policies, whereas the majority of the companies had incorporated guidelines such as site access, handling of COVID-19 cases, induction, screening and social distancing; only a few had incorporated guidelines such as compliance, sanitisation, sick leave, wearing of personal protective equipment, audit and risk assessment, lunchtime rules and grouping of workers into the health and safety policies on site.

Research limitations/implications

Data was collected from higher grade firms; therefore, the research findings may not be applied to smaller construction firms. A study that focuses on lower grades is recommended.

Practical implications

Construction companies could use the recommendations provided to improve upon the policies developed/adopted to curb the spread of CVID-19 on-site.

Originality/value

Research on COVID-19 construction site health and safety measures are still being developed. Thus, this study contributes to advancing the body of knowledge in this evolving field.
An inch of progress: new ethics opinion gets real about assistance to fraud and crime
Authors: Petterchak Jacob Wade
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the current law on the professional responsibility of American attorneys to combat financial crimes and developments in light of recent scandals and new ethics opinion from the American Bar Association. Further commentary is offered on the ethics of advancing the mission to not assist clients in financial wrongdoing.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper offers a legal analysis of recent developments pertaining to the ethical regulation of attorney conduct regarding client involvement in financial crimes. Examination of these developments in light of contemporary best practices in the banking and financial services industry assists in determining how to improve the current regulatory approach. There is an extensive review of case law and both academic and professional literature.

Findings

The findings of this paper indicate that a proactive culture exists that acknowledges the deficiencies that still exist in the regulation of attorney ethics to combat financial crimes by clients. Still, significant gaps remain that need to be addressed. Further issues remain unresolved in the context of key legal doctrines that set out clear, concise standards for knowledge and assistance.

Originality/value

The value of this paper comes from the careful analysis of present best practices in banking and financial services regulation and how they could be better applied in the context of the attorney–client relationship.
A framework for medical tourists' satisfaction and loyalty by costumer segmentation and quality improvement
Authors: Nakhaeinejad Mahdi , Moeinzadeh Mohammad Hosein , Tabatabaei Bafrouei Seyed Aliasghar , Akhavan Afarin
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Tourism industry is a profitable resource for countries and considered one of the main sources of income and job creation for economic development. Among the various types of tourism, medical tourism and its subsets are of great significance owing to their capabilities and competitive advantages. In this regard, the purpose of this research is to provide a framework to categorize customers based on the Zeithaml pyramid and then identify and provide strategies to create loyalty and attract customers of this industry.

Design/methodology/approach

This study proposed a framework for medical tourists' satisfaction and loyalty. First, by studying the literature and data gathering from Yazd (one of the cities of Iran), the effective factors on the loyalty and attraction of medical tourists were identified. These factors have been prioritized for the medical tourists who are in the platinum category by the Pareto technique and Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method. Next, the strategies provided by experts for loyalty and attraction of medical tourists were examined. Finally, the house of quality (HOQ) as the first matrix in quality functional deployment (QFD) was used to provide operational strategies for medical tourism satisfaction. The statistical population of this research consists of medical tourists, academic experts and active physicians of medical tourism in Yazd, one of the cities of Iran.

Findings

The study results indicate the importance of “hospital reputation” in medical tourists' satisfaction. Also, “achieving international standards”, “periodic customer satisfaction assessment” and “paying attention to social responsibilities” are recognized as the most important strategies to achieve the loyalty of the most profitable group of customers, namely platinum.

Practical implications

This study covers both theoretical and practical aspects. Theoretically, this study developed a new framework for medical tourists' satisfaction by the Zeithaml matrix, TOPSIS, Pareto technique and QFD method. Furthermore, practically this study helps practitioners of medical tourism in medical tourists' satisfaction and loyalty.

Originality/value

In this study, in addition to identifying the effective factors on the loyalty and attracting medical tourists, a new framework was developed for medical tourists' satisfaction by segmentation the tourism by the Zeithaml matrix and providing operational strategies by the QFD technique.
Voluntary adoption of AAOIFI disclosure standards for takaful operators: the role of governance
Authors: Mohd Zain Fahru Azwa , Wan Abdullah Wan Amalina , Percy Majella
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to determine the role governance plays in the voluntary adoption of Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions (AAOIFI) Disclosure Standards by Islamic insurance (takaful) operators in the Southeast Asia (SEA) and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) regions.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a sample of 44 takaful operators in the SEA and the GCC regions. While corporate governance (CG) strength is measured by the use of the frequently examined variables of the board of directors and audit committee, Shari’ah governance strength is measured by the characteristics of the Shari’ah Supervisory Board (SSB). Content analysis is used to extract disclosure items from the 2014 annual reports. Agency theory, stakeholder theory and political economy theory are argued to support the hypotheses.

Findings

The results show that CG strength has a positive and significant effect on the voluntary adoption of AAOIFI Disclosure Standards by takaful operators, indicating that CG plays an important role in the disclosure of information in the annual reports of takaful operators. However, the results show a lack of association between SSB strength and voluntary adoption of AAOIFI Disclosure Standards. Our results suggest that the SSBs may not be as involved as the other CG mechanisms (such as a board of directors and audit committees) in reviewing financial reports. On another note, the level of the political right and civil liberties has a negative and significant effect on the voluntary adoption of AAOIFI Disclosure Standards, providing an indication that stakeholders in a community with greater freedom tend to be more active in pressuring takaful operators to provide more information to justify their existence in the community. Similar to SSB strength, the legal system is also found to have no significant association with the voluntary adoption of the AAOIFI disclosure standards.

Practical implications

This study provides stakeholders with a tool to evaluate the effectiveness of the governance role in increasing the transparency of takaful operators by examining the governance factors using a self-constructed disclosure index.

Originality/value

Our study is among the first to provide an in-depth analysis of voluntary adoption of AAOIFI Disclosure Standards for takaful operators in these two regions; therefore, this study has implications for regulators and standard setters. The findings of this study are expected to provide information to regulators and standard setters on the role of governance in improving the transparency of takaful operators.
Factors affecting the diffusion of mobile social network services in an aging society: value of informative, hedonic and ubiquitous services
Authors: Bae Hyeyoon , Jo Sang Hyun , Jung Hyun Joo , Lee Euehun
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to identify factors affecting the continued intention to use mobile social network services (m-SNS) among middle-aged and older adults in Korea, based on the focal characteristics of mobile services and SNS.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through an online questionnaire to understand m-SNS usage from 358 people aged over 40 years in Korea.

Findings

Results show that middle-aged and older users of m-SNS are strongly motivated to seek information; they prefer to use m-SNS on a habitual basis because of the ubiquitous connectivity of mobile services. Furthermore, they perceive the usefulness of m-SNS in expanding their social networks. These results can be used to identify factors that affect continued use of m-SNS by the middle-aged and older generation in Korea.

Originality/value

This paper expands the literature on SNS acceptance among middle-aged and older adults, the population that, in future, is expected to constitute the majority of m-SNS users. This paper can also help understand factors that affect mature consumers’ continued use of m-SNS.
Abrupt new realities amid the disaster landscape as one crisis gives way to crises
Authors: Miller DeMond Shondell
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to highlight the roles of sudden change and social disruption in the disaster landscape that shapes the environment of tourism destinations when hazards intersect with human systems.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper draws on the social science literature on disasters and crises. To this end, this paper provides an overview of the role abrupt changes have in transforming the tourism and hospitality industries.

Findings

This paper serves as a call to seek bold solutions that bring about industry best practices while fostering local community stakeholders in a more integrated way to build a more resilient future.

Originality/value

The disaster landscape provides opportunities to advance new structures, norms, cultural beliefs and collaborations that can foster resilience. This paper highlights the need to integrate resilience in the form of disaster management, recovery and organizational continuity strategies in the post-COVID-19 hospitality and tourism industries.
Dermatomyositis‐like eruptions and fasciitis with novel compound heterozygous MEFV mutations: Newly recognized features of a variant of familial Mediterranean fever
Authors: Sumida Hayakazu , Migita Kiyoshi , Ida Hiroaki , Asano Yoshihide , Shimizu Jun , Kagami Shinji , Sugaya Makoto , Kadono Takafumi , Sato Shinichi
Published: June 2021

Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is an autoinflammatory disease characterized by recurrent febrile attacks and serositis. The diagnosis of FMF has been based on clinical criteria, including frequent symptoms and good response to the treatment with colchicine. Some patients with FMF show skin or muscle manifestations, which may be confused with other cutaneous or muscle disorders. Here we report a female in her 40s with periodic fever, migratory myalgia, dermatomyositis‐like dermatitis, arthralgia, pharyngalgia, and lymphadenopathy. The initial clinical differential diagnosis included dermatomyositis, malignant lymphoma, and adult‐onset Still's disease. However, the following examinations could not explain her pathological condition with such diseases. In particular, findings from muscle and fascial biopsy demonstrated severe inflammatory cell infiltrate in the fascia, suggesting fasciitis as a possible cause of migratory myalgia. We examined the possibility of autoinflammatory diseases by genetic testing. Accordingly, she was found to have novel compound heterozygous mutations (L110P, E148Q, and P369S) in the MEFV gene. Given her genetic mutations and favorable response to colchicine, she was finally diagnosed as a variant of FMF with myalgia and previously unprecedented skin eruptions.
Alignment Change and the Emergence of the Thematic Conjugation from Proto‐Indo‐European to Indo‐European: A Wedding of Hypotheses*
Authors: Pooth Roland , Orqueda Verónica
Published: June 2021

Our paper addresses the reconstruction of the Proto‐Indo‐European (PIE) case and alignment system and questions the hypothesis that PIE had nominative‐accusative alignment. We argue that the rise of split‐gender ergativity in Anatolian was prompted by the fact that proto‐neuter nouns like *dóru were not used in A‐function before Proto‐Anatolian (Yakubovich 2011). Our first hypothesis is that neuter nouns changed their alignment to S = P = A only after the separation of the Anatolian branch. We further reassess the theory of ‘protomiddle’ origin of the thematic conjugation (Watkins 1969; Jasanoff 1998). We propose a wedding of hypotheses by combining the idea of alignment change with this theory. This includes the reconstruction of a PIE antipassive construction, as recently outlined by Pooth et al. (2019). The scenario implies that PIE had semantic alignment, and that the voice opposition was triggered by prototypical agency and transitivity in semantic terms (Pooth 2011; Pooth et al. 2019).
Global–Regional Realignments in Trade, Finance and Development: Introduction to the Special Issue
Authors: Lütz Susanne
Published: June 2021

Multilateral Bretton Woods institutions such as the IMF, the World Bank and the WTO are increasingly challenged by a rising number of bilateral, regional and plurilateral organizations. The mandates of global and regional organizations overlap and intersect when trade is being regulated, financial crisis lending is being provided or development is being financed. In this special issue we examine the forms, dynamics and implications of these global–regional realignments for global economic governance. By drawing on the analytical toolbox of regime complexity research, the authors address mechanisms of integration and disintegration in the regime complexes in trade, finance and development from the viewpoint of actors and particularly regional challengers. The papers discuss first, the motives and strategies to spur fragmentation or integration. Second, they examine to what extent actors seek to substitute or complement focal institutions on the global level. Third, the special issue evaluates the implications of a coexistence of integration and disintegration for global economic governance.
The delimitation of intestine segments of koi carp (Cyprinus carpiovar.koi) based on histological features
Authors: Han Zhuoran , Sun Jingfeng , Liu Xiufang , Sun Xueliang , Shi Hongyue , Guo Yongjun
Published: June 2021

In this study, the delimitation of intestine segments of koi carp (Cyprinus carpiovar.koi) was conducted using a histological approach with the measurements of height of mucosa folds (HF), width of mucosa folds (WF), thickness of muscularis (TM) and cross‐sectional area (CSA). According to the change trends for these four parameters, the intestine of the koi carp was divided into anterior intestine, middle intestine and posterior intestine. The locations of the three intestine segments were defined, and their ratios along the entire intestine were accounted for 23.84 ± 1.18%, 46.77 ± 2.29% and 29.39 ± 1.65%, respectively. The anterior intestine had a significantly higher HF, compared with the middle (p < .01) or posterior intestines (p < .01). The muscularis became thin gradually from the anterior intestine to posterior part. TM was significantly different among the anterior, middle and posterior intestines (p < .01). The anterior intestine had a significantly higher CSA, compared with the middle (p < .01) and posterior intestines (p < .01), and the latter two segments had similar CSA values (p > .05). The procedure of the delimitation of the koi carp intestine segments can offer useful information for future studies on other fish species. The presented results are meaningful for studies on differential functions of the different intestine segments in fish.
Financial toxicity in patients with cancer attending a public Australian tertiary hospital: A pilot study
Authors: McLean Luke , Hong Wei , McLachlan Sue‐Anne
Published: June 2021

Aim

As therapeutic options for cancer evolve and become more complex, the concept of financial toxicity has emerged. The comprehensive score for financial toxicity (COST) and iMTA Productivity Cost questionnaires (iPCQ) represent two tools developed to measure the concept. The aim of this pilot study was to review the impact of financial toxicity in patients with cancer in an Australian public setting where there is a universal health care model.

Methods

This pilot study utilized an exploratory, cross‐sectional design in a single Australian large inner‐city tertiary center. After providing written consent eligible patients, in an ambulatory setting, completed four self‐reporting questionnaires, which were written in English (basic demographics, COST, iPCQ and the European Organization Research Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire‐C30 [EORTC‐QLQ‐C30]).

Results

Of 97 patients approached, 66 consented to participate. The median age was 63.5 years. Fifty‐five percent were female. Fifty‐three completed COST questionnaires. The median score for financial toxicity was 18 (range 1‐42). Higher COST scores indicated greater financial concerns and were associated with poorer quality of life (P = .004). This was maintained after adjusting for confounders (age, gender, regional postcode.) Univariate analysis demonstrated younger age was associated with higher COST scores (P < .001), while gender (P = .243) and geographical location (P = .243) were not.

Conclusions

In a cohort of patients receiving systemic cancer therapy in an Australian public setting, financial toxicity was associated with poorer quality of life. Despite a universal health‐model, the COST questionnaire identified a substantial proportion of patients who experienced financial toxicity.
A shared parameter mixture model for longitudinal income data with missing responses and zero rounding
Authors: Hui Francis K.C. , Bondell Howard D.
Published: June 2021

The analysis of longitudinal income data is often made challenging for several reasons. For example, in a national Australian survey on income over time, a non‐negligible proportion of responses are missing, and it is believed the missingness mechanism is non‐ignorable. Also, there are a large number of reported zero incomes, some of which may be true zeros (corresponding to individuals who legitimately do not earn an income), while some may be false zeros (corresponding to individuals choosing to round their income to zero). We propose a new shared parameter mixture (SPM) model for analysing semi‐continuous longitudinal income data, which addresses the two challenges of income non‐response and zero rounding. This is accomplished by jointly modelling an individual's underlying income together with the probability of missingness and rounding to zero, where both probabilities are permitted to vary in a smooth manner with their underlying non‐zero income. Applying the SPM model to the Australian income survey reveals that on average, older female individuals and individuals with a long‐term health condition are considerably less likely to earn an income, while income tended to be highest for male individuals on fixed‐term/permanent job contracts between ages 50 and 60. Furthermore there is evidence of both zero rounding, and conditional on the assumed missingness mechanism, individuals with incomes at the higher and lower ends are more likely to not report their income.
National Health Care data system analysis of glaucoma surgery activity in France in 2016
Authors: Dufournet Julie , Chiquet Christophe , Bouisse Magali , Francois Patrice , Bron Alain , Boussat Bastien , Daien Vincent , Bourcier Tristan , Robert Pierre‐Yves , Aptel Florent
Published: June 2021

Purpose

To describe the glaucoma surgery offer in France in 2016.

Methods

We used the French National Health Care System database to identify all medical procedures carried out in 2016. The study investigated the entire population aged 30 years and older that had undergone glaucoma surgery, alone or combined with another surgery. We calculated the incidence of surgeries per 100 000 inhabitants 30 years of age and older performed by ophthalmologists carrying out at least 50 procedures annually, the number of surgeons doing these surgeries, the mean age of these practitioners, and the number of surgeons older than 55 years.

Results

In 2016, 16 854 glaucoma surgeries were performed in patients aged 30 years and older, for an incidence of 40.8 per 100 000 inhabitants aged 30 years and older. The most frequent procedure performed was trabeculectomy followed by non‐penetrating deep sclerectomy (16.7 and 11.7, respectively, per 100 000 inhabitants 30 years of age and older). Private practice glaucoma surgery accounted for 47% of the activity of surgeons performing at least 50 surgeries per year and 60% of the total surgical activity. Of the private practice ophthalmologists performing at least 50 glaucoma surgery procedures per year, 58.5% were over 55 years of age, and 23.5% of public hospital ophthalmologists were over 55 years of age.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that surgeons performing glaucoma surgeries are often older. It is necessary to take note of the country’s educational capacity to ensure that the number of ophthalmological surgeons remains adapted to demand.
Totally endoscopic sublay/extraperitoneal Sugarbaker mesh repair for parastomal hernia
Authors: Li Binggen , Qin Changfu , Luo Hongyu , Li Guoxin
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Shared consensus is that a nonslit‐mesh‐based laparoscopic repair technique is the optimal treatment principle for parastomal hernia (PSH).

Materials and surgical technique

An 81‐year‐old female parastomal hernia patient who had a previous history of laparoscopic abdominoperineal resection presented for surgical treatment. We performed a novel totally endoscopic sublay/extraperitoneal Sugarbaker mesh repair (TES‐Sugarbaker) for this disease. The mesh was deployed in the sublay/extraperitoneal plane in a Sugarbaker configuration.

Discussion

TES‐Sugarbaker repair for parastomal hernia is technically feasible, it requires no anti‐adhesive coated mesh and less traumatic fixation, then reduces the mesh‐related complication and postoperative pain, making it more cost effective. The present described case represents an early attempt to perform endoscopic sublay/extraperitoneal mesh repair for PSH.
Phthalimide‐(N‐alkylbenzylamine) cysteamide hybrids as multifunctional agents against Alzheimer’s disease: Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation
Authors: Zhang Heng , Song Qing , Yu Guangjun , Cao Zhongcheng , Qiang Xiaoming , Liu Xiuxiu , Deng Yong
Published: June 2021

The complex pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) calls for multi‐target approach for disease treatment. Herein, based on the MTDLs strategy, a series of phthalimide‐(N‐alkylbenzylamine) cysteamide hybrids were designed, synthesized, and investigated in vitro for the purpose. Most of the target compounds were found to be potential multi‐target agents. In vitro results showed that compound 9e was the representative compound in this series, endowed with high EeAChE and HuAChE inhibitory potency (IC50 = 1.55 µm and 2.23 µm, respectively), good inhibitory activity against self‐induced Aβ1‐42 aggregation (36.08% at 25 µm), and moderate antioxidant capacity (ORAC‐FL value was 0.68 Trolox equivalents). Molecular docking studies rationalized the binding mode of 9e in both PAS and CAS of AChE. Moreover, 9e displayed excellent ability to against H2O2‐induced PC12 cell injury and penetrate BBB. Overall, these results highlighted that compound 9e was an effective and promising multi‐target agent for further anti‐AD drug development.
Antiproliferative labdane diterpenes from the rhizomes of Hedychium flavescens Carey ex Roscoe
Authors: Subramanyan Santhi , Deepika Selvakumar , Ajith Anjitha , Joseph Gracy Anuja , Dan Mathew , Maiti Kaustabh Kumar , Varma Ramavarma Luxmi , Radhakrishnan Kokkuvayil Vasu
Published: June 2021

Antiproliferative activity was confirmed in the various extracts of rhizomes of Hedychium flavescens (Zingiberaceae). The phytochemical investigation of the rhizomes of Hedychium flavescens led to the isolation of four labdane diterpenes. Their structures were established as coronarin E (1), C‐14 epimers of isocoronarin D (2), C‐15 epimers of coronarin D methyl ether (3) and isocoronarin D (4). The structure of the compounds was identified based on spectroscopic analysis and on comparison with literature reports. All these compounds were assessed for their in vitro cytotoxicity against human lung adenocarcinoma (A549) cell line and showed significant cytotoxicity as reflected in IC50 value, that is, 0.52, 0.59, 0.68 and 1.22 μM compared with the control doxorubicin (IC50 0.92 μM). Moreover, all the compounds were nontoxic towards the normal lung fibroblast (WI‐38) cells. The chemo‐profiling and cytotoxicity study of Hedychium flavescens is reported for the first time.
Assessment of bacterial exposure on phagocytic capability and surface marker expression of sputum macrophages and neutrophils in COPD patients
Authors: Lea Simon , Gaskell Rosemary , Hall Simon , Maschera Barbara , Hessel Edith , Singh Dave
Published: June 2021

Defective phagocytosis has been shown in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) bronchoalveolar lavage and blood monocyte-derived macrophages. Phagocytic capabilities of sputum macrophages and neutrophils in COPD are unknown. We investigated phagocytosis in these cells from COPD patients and controls. Phagocytosis of Streptococcus pneumoniae or fluorescently labelled non-typeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi) by sputum macrophages and neutrophils was determined by gentamycin protection assay (COPD; n = 5) or flow cytometry in 14 COPD patients, 8 healthy smokers (HS) and 9 healthy never-smokers (HNS). Sputum macrophages and neutrophils were differentiated by adherence for the gentamycin protection assay or receptor expression (CD206 and CD66b, respectively), by flow cytometry. The effects of NTHi on macrophage expression of CD206 and CD14 and neutrophil expression of CD16 were determined by flow cytometry. There was greater uptake of S. pneumoniae [~10-fold more colony-forming units (CFU)/ml] by sputum neutrophils compared to macrophages in COPD patients. Flow cytometry showed greater NTHi uptake by neutrophils compared to macrophages in COPD (67 versus 38%, respectively) and HS (61 versus 31%, respectively). NTHi uptake by macrophages was lower in HS (31%, p = 0.019) and COPD patients (38%, p = 0.069) compared to HNS (57%). NTHi uptake by neutrophils was similar between groups. NTHi exposure reduced CD206 and CD14 expression on macrophages and CD16 expression on neutrophils. Sputum neutrophils showed more phagocytic activity than macrophages. There was some evidence that bacterial phagocytosis was impaired in HS sputum macrophages, but no impairment of neutrophils was observed in HS or COPD patients. These results highlight the relative contributions of neutrophils and macrophages to bacterial clearance in COPD.
Effects of oxygen supplementation in autonomic nervous system function during exercise in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and exertional desaturation
Authors: Boutou Afroditi K. , Dipla Konstantina , Theodorakopoulou Marieta P. , Markopoulou Katerina , Pitsiou Georgia , Papadopoulos Stavros , Kritikou Stella , Stanopoulos Ioannis , Zafeiridis Andreas
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) have reduced exercise capacity and often present exertional dyspnea and desaturation. The role of autonomic nervous system (ANS) as a pathogenetic contributor to this dysfunction has not been evaluated.

Objective

To evaluate whether improvement of arterial oxygen saturation (SpO2) via oxygen supplementation results to ANS function improvement, during steady state submaximal exercise.

Methods

This is a secondary analysis of a single‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled, cross‐over trial, including 12 IPF patients, with isolated exertional desaturation. Following a maximal cardiopulmonary test, participants underwent two submaximal steady state tests during which they received either supplementary oxygen or medical air. Continuous beat‐to‐beat blood pressure measurements were recorded (Finapres Medical Systems, Amsterdam, The Netherlands). Autonomic function was assessed non‐invasively by heart rate variability (HRV); root mean square of successive differences (RMSSD) and standard‐deviation‐Poincare‐plot (SD1) were used as indices of parasympathetic output. Entropy and detrended fluctuation analysis (DFA) were also used.

Results

During rest, oxygen supplementation did not significantly alter RMSSD and SD1. During exercise, subjects presented no significant alterations compared with baseline, in most HRV indices examined. There was no improvement of this behavior with O2‐supplementation. Approximate‐entropy increased during exercise, with no differences between protocols.

Conclusions

IPF patients presented an inadequate adaptive response of their ANS to exercise and recovery. Although oxygen supplementation significantly prolonged exercise duration and prevented the substantial exertional desaturation, the blunted vagal response to steady‐state exercise in these patients was not improved, suggesting that acute oxygen supplementation does not sufficiently improve ANS dysfunction in these patients.
Mixed‐integer linear programming optimization for the Supply Chain Game
Authors: Shaltayev Dmitriy
Published: June 2021

In this article, we describe the use of linear programming in conjunction with an online simulation game in an undergraduate supply chain management class. Supply chain management is a required course for students enrolled in a Business Administration program with a concentration in management. It delivers a broad overview of the supply chain management discipline, using a simulation game by Responsive Learning Technologies to provide students with hands‐on experience designing and managing a supply chain. In this teaching brief, I give an overview of the game and present the formulation of an accompanying mixed‐integer linear programming model to design an optimal supply chain that meets customers, demand while maximizing company profit. Students use a spreadsheet template to develop their own implementation of the model and then apply the optimal solution during the simulation. Consequently, they gain an understanding of the role of network optimization in supply chain management. I conclude with recommendations for management of game activities using this model and a brief discussion of some of the issues to be monitored as the game is played.
Spanish Curriculum in Cariology for undergraduate dental students: Proceedings and consensus
Authors: Cortés‐Martinicorena Francisco Javier , Ceballos Laura , Martínez‐Pérez Eva , Hernández‐Juyol Miguel , Schulte Andreas G. , Almerich‐Silla José Manuel ,   the Spanish Curriculum of Cariology Expert Group
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Cariology is today a broad‐based discipline and in the Spanish university teaching field, all this knowledge is not unified in a curriculum. Therefore, the aim was to develop a consensus text based on the European Core Curriculum, updated, and adapted to the characteristics of the Spanish university environment.

Materials and Methods

A Spanish Cariology Curriculum Group (SCCG) was set up with members of the Spanish Society of Epidemiology and Oral Public Health (SESPO), Spanish Society of Conservative and Aesthetic Dentistry (SEOC) and Spanish Society of Paediatric Dentistry (SEOP) and university experts to adapt the European Core Curriculum in Cariology for undergraduate dental students (ECCC) for Spain. The work was carried out online during 2018 and 2019, and also face‐to‐face meetings took place to obtain a draft curriculum open for discussion that was presented to all the Spanish universities. The final modifications to the document were specified in a Consensus Conference of Spanish universities offering a Degree in Dentistry that took place in Madrid on 19 November 2019.

Results

Thirty‐eight university experts, under SCCG supervision, participated in the elaboration of the new framework document. A total of 16 universities, from 23 invited, reached a consensus as to the contents of the Spanish Curriculum in Cariology for undergraduate dental students. This new Curriculum emphasises learning outcomes, uses a consensus‐based terminology pertaining to caries and other hard‐tissue conditions, and introduces a new domain of competence in Domain III of ECCC.

Conclusion

This new Cariology Curriculum is the result of a very broad‐based consensus of university experts in Spain and lays the foundation for the implementation of an integrated teaching of Cariology in Spain in adherence to Alliance for a Caries Free Future (ACFF) objectives.
Current joint therapy usage in equine practice: Changes in the last 10 years
Authors: Zanotto Gustavo M. , Frisbie David D.
Published: June 2021

Background

Osteoarthritis is a common clinical condition in the performance horse. In the last 10 years, there has been substantial growth in understanding of the disease and in the development of novel therapies.

Objectives

To document changes in clinical use of joint therapies over the past 10 years. We also aimed to understand how newly developed therapies have been added to routine clinical practice.

Study design

Survey of veterinary professionals.

Methods

We administered an electronic survey to members of the American Association of the Equine Practitioners. Questions from a similar survey in 2009 were repeated and new questions were added. The responses were tabulated, analysed and compared to those of the previous survey.

Results

A total of 407 completed surveys were returned. There were no significant differences between the current and previous surveys with respect to demographic parameters. Triamcinolone acetonide (TA) remained the most common corticosteroid used to treat high‐motion joints. Methylprednisolone acetate (MPA) remained the most common corticosteroid to treat low‐motion joints. The use of MPA for high‐motion joints was significantly more common in 2009 than in 2019 (odds ratio [OR]: 2.38, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.66‐3.42,P = .001). Biological therapies became more popular, and the likelihood of respondents reporting having used autologous conditioned serum was substantially higher in 2019 than in 2009 (OR: 4.24, 95% CI: 3.16‐5.68,P < .001). Concomitant use of antibiotics with intra‐articular medications became more common as well.

Main limitations

This is a report of survey data and not directly measured treatments.

Conclusions

There is a decrease in the use of MPA to treat high‐motion joints. The use of biological therapies in joints has become more prevalent. There are clear differences in the use of joint therapies over time. While some differences agree with the scientific evidence, others are not fully concordant or are in direct conflict with the scientific literature.
Signaling pathways regulating the fate of fibro/adipogenic progenitors (FAPs) in skeletal muscle regeneration and disease
Authors: Giuliani Giulio , Rosina Marco , Reggio Alessio
Published: June 2021

The characterization of fibro/adipogenic progenitor cells (FAPs) in the skeletal muscle has contributed to modify the monocentric view of muscle regeneration beyond muscle satellite cells (MuSCs). Now, we are aware that each population of the muscle niche plays a critical role in modulating homeostasis and regeneration. In the healthy muscle, FAPs contribute to maintain tissue homeostasis and assist MuSCs to cope with limited insults. Here, FAPs sense and integrate niche signals that keep in check their differentiation potential. The disruption of these niche cues leads to FAP differentiation into adipocytes and fibroblasts, both detrimental hallmarks of a large variety of muscle wasting diseases. FAP biology is still in its infancy, and current efforts are focused on the understanding of the molecular circuits governing their double‐edged behavior. The present review offers a detailed overview of the pathways and metabolic routes that can be modulated to halt and redirect their fibro/adipogenic potential while favoring their supportive role in muscle regeneration. Finally, we discuss on how single‐cell technologies have contributed to resolve FAP transitional states with distinctive roles in muscle regeneration and myopathies.