bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of business ethics and community outreach on faculty engagement: the mediating effect of legitimacy in higher education
Authors: Blanco-González Alicia , Del-Castillo-Feito Cristina , Miotto Giorgia
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to measure the effects of universities' ethical management and positive impact on society affect the faculty engagement through the mediating effect of organizational legitimacy.

Design/methodology/approach

Engaged employees are characterized by better performance, increased productivity and by generating higher customer loyalty as well greater economic profit. The commitment to the organization they work for is affected by internal and external inputs. Among these, business ethics and corporate community outreach are key factors for improving employee engagement. The authors developed a survey that was distributed to professors of Spanish universities. To treat the data and test the proposed hypotheses, the authors applied structural equations through PLS-SEM.

Findings

This research contributes to the organizational management field literature and advises university administrators to adopt an ethical management style based on information transparency, accountability and faculty member involvement in the decision-making process in order to improve their engagement and, therefore, increasing student satisfaction, academic results and positive impact on the common good.

Originality/value

The novelty of the authors’ research stands in the inclusion of legitimacy as a mediation effect between business ethics and community outreach that affect employees' engagement and, specifically, faculty engagement.
Internationalization of higher education in Cambodia: toward an agenda for higher education development
Authors: Sok Say , Bunry Rinna
Published: April 2021

Purpose

This paper aim to argue for Cambodia to take internationalization of higher education seriously and strategically to position it for higher education development, and this starts with enhancing its buy-in among the key stakeholders, fine-tuning its conceptualization and contextualization and a government-funded comprehensive policy and investment program.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper explores policies and practices of internationalization in Cambodia, using Knight's (2004, 2007) conceptualization of internationalization and Wan's (2018) list of six dimensions, by which the authors track and measure internationalization.

Findings

Systematic policy implementation to position internationalization to achieve national and institutional goals is little. Given utilitarianism of internationalization, policy statement has geared more toward employing internationalization to achieve institutional building, in order of significance: mobility, research collaboration, policy formulation and quality control, and much less on networking and aligning with international instruments. Subtle differences among the four universities under investigation exist. While all focus on student and faculty mobility and exchange, some aim at research collaboration and networks; some at indigenous “international” and language programs, and some at joint degree programs. But, internationalization is not a key priority nor is it strategically positioned to achieve institutional aspirations.

Practical implications

Without comprehensive, strategic policy guidance and implementation from the government, internationalization has taken its own course, and such is not healthy for higher education development.

Originality/value

There are few studies on internationalization in Cambodia. Clayton and Yuok (1997), Clayton (2002) and Pit and Ford (2004) examine politics or its politicization and higher education development after the end of the Eastern Bloc's support (Tek and Leng, 2017). Recent studies (Leng, 2015; Leng, 2016; Yun, 2014) underline institutional case studies to illustrate status, issues and challenges in internationalization. This article attempts to provide an overarching map of internationalization to inform policies and practices toward higher education and national development.
Rent or buy, what are the odds? Analysing the price-to-rent ratio for housing types within the Northern Ireland housing market
Authors: Lo Daniel , McCord Michael James , McCord John , Davis Peadar Thomas , Haran Martin
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The price-to-rent ratio is often regarded as an important indicator for measuring housing market imbalance and inefficiency. A central question is the extent to which house prices and rents form part of the same market and thus whether they respond similarly to parallel stimulus. If they are close proxies dynamically, then this provides valuable market intelligence, particularly where causal relationships are evident. Therefore, this paper aims to examine the relationship between market and rental pricing to uncover the price switching dynamics of residential real estate property types and whether the deviation between market rents and prices are integrated over both the long- and short-term.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses cointegration, Wald exogeneity tests and Granger causality models to determine the existence, if any, of cointegration and lead-lag relationships between prices and rents within the Belfast property market, as well as the price-to-rent ratios amongst its five main property sub-markets over the time period M4, 2014 to M12 2018.

Findings

The findings provide some novel insights in relation to the pricing dynamics within Belfast. Housing and rental prices are cointegrated suggesting that they tend to move in tandem in the long run. It is further evident that in the short-run, the price series Granger-causes that of rents inferring that sales price information unidirectionally diffuse to the rental market. Further, the findings on price-to-rent ratios reveal that the detached sector appears to Granger-cause those of other property types except apartments in both the short- and long-term, suggesting possible spill-over of pricing signals from the top-end to the lower strata of the market.

Originality/value

The importance of understanding the relationship between house prices and rental market performance has gathered momentum. Although the house price-rent ratio is widely used as an indicator of over and undervaluation in the housing market, surprisingly little is known about the theoretical relationship between the price-rent ratio across property types and their respective inter-relationships.
Exploring the meaning of work through a transcendental frame
Authors: Vasconcelos Anselmo Ferreira
Published: April 2021

Purpose

Despite the advancement, it appears that much has to be done to clarify the understanding of the effects of the meaning of work (MOW) in the lives. Thus, the purpose of this paper is to explore such a theoretical stream by means of the Spiritism Doctrine (SD) tenets. In fact, the spiritual knowledge derived from this religion alludes to aspects worthy of investigation.

Design/methodology/approach

Religious lens serves as a robust frame to approach the MOW, given that people’s beliefs likely shape their view about work. Toward that end, it examines pivotal aspects of MOW literature and the SD revelations thereof.

Findings

The wise revelations and teachings from the spirits examined throughout this paper suggest that work embraces one of God’s laws. In this regard, the SD tenets deepen this by providing sound explanations, reflections and arguments about the MOW, as well as highlighting that we all must do the best in the work regardless of the profession or activity. In doing so, this paper is serving the neighbors by fulfilling or at least mitigating their needs and consequently engaging in something indefinitely greater than the own desires, that is, the celestial Father’s wish.

Practical implications

There is no denying that the knowledge brought by the SD, as a source of transcendental epistemology, has deep implications for workers and organizations likewise. Overall, such knowledge enriches the understanding of a very important theme to human beings through an understudied but also insightful lens.

Originality/value

Therefore, this essay contributes to the MOW through transcendental epistemology (Maslow, 1993). Rather, it focuses on a very sensitive issue (work) and its corresponding implications to mankind through the knowledge of a spiritual and religious framework. In addition, such endeavor also adds to the field of management, spirituality and religion Interest Group of Academy of Management.
Subsidiary banks in emerging markets: how strong is the coordination on a group-wide basis?
Authors: Iwanicz-Drozdowska Małgorzata , Witkowski Bartosz
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The parent-subsidiary nexus has been explored since the mid-1990s, but the extent to which subsidiaries resemble their parents remains unclear. Therefore, this study examines the performance drivers for subsidiary banks in emerging markets and their parents to determine the similarities between these groups. The findings could help identify key financial performance measures that should be included in global strategies for multinational banks operating in emerging markets.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses data on subsidiaries from 32 countries, including 20 European transitioning countries and 49 parent companies operating internationally from 1996 to 2015. It considers several models that distinguish between units using individual bank effects and the stochastic structure. In a robustness analysis, EU- and non-EU-based institutions are distinguished and long-term historical links between parents' and subsidiaries' countries are considered.

Findings

Cost control, capital adequacy and asset quality policies have similar importance for parent banks and subsidiaries and are strictly coordinated, whereas the remaining policies allow more flexibility. Subsidiaries in the EU and in countries that were politically and/or militarily influenced by parent countries do not “fall far from the tree”, which signals their strong group-wide integration and coordination.

Research limitations/implications

This study covers a limited number of emerging market countries due to the limited availability of long-term series data. Future studies should include more countries.

Originality/value

This study identifies key financial measures used on a group-wide basis for performance management while accounting for long-term relations between host and home countries and the geopolitical characteristics of host countries.
Spillover effects of the US monetary policy on the Indian trilemma
Authors: Grewal Harpreet Singh , Trivedi Pushpa
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of the US unconventional monetary policy surprises on the management of trilemma in India.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses the event study approach along with OLS and MANOVA to examine the impact.

Findings

The results validate the existence of trilemma in India for the period from October 2008 to December 2017. The results also show that monetary policy independence still exists in India in the wake of greater spillover effects during the Federal Open Market Committee announcement days. The spillover effects on USD-INR exchange rates and capital flows are found to be statistically significant. The MANOVA results show that the trilemma in India is influenced by around 20% by the changes in the US monetary policy.

Originality/value

The above approach of event study combined with MANOVA in this subject area has not been used before to the best of the authors’ knowledge. Further, there are only a few studies that exist on the spillover effects of the US monetary policy actions on the management of trilemma in India.
Social exclusion in Pakistan: an ethnographic and regional perspective
Authors: Pervaiz Zahid , Akram Shahla , Ahmad Jan Sajjad
Published: April 2021

Purpose

This paper is an attempt to analyze the nature and extent of social exclusion across regions, ethnolinguistic groups and different professions in Pakistan.

Design/methodology/approach

By using household level data of Pakistan Social and Living Standard Measurement Survey, the authors have constructed Social Exclusion Index (SEI) as well as multidimensional deprivation scores across of the households. SEI has been developed by using multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) whereas multidimensional deprivation scores have been calculated by following the methodology proposed by Alkire and Foster 2011. In total nine household level indicators related with living standards, education and health have been used for this purpose. In next step the relationship of different household characteristics such as profession of household head region of residence and ethnolinguistic identity has been explored with SEI and multidimensional deprivation scores.

Findings

The empirical results of our analysis show that even after controlling for the income of household, SEI and multidimensional deprivation scores have been found to be significantly different across different professions, different regions and different linguistic groups.

Originality/value

This confirms the prevalence of social exclusion in Pakistani society. Compensatory government policies are suggested as an option to cope with the problem of social exclusion.
Does culture influence our ways in handling COVID-19?
Authors: Oey Elia , Rahardjo Benjamin Suwito
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The COVID-19 pandemic has hit all nations across the globe since the beginning of 2020. As the whole world is connected ever than before, the virus has spread very fast and affected almost all nations worldwide. Despite facing a common enemy, each nation reacts and manages the virus differently. The research studies how culture influences the way nations and society choose different approaches towards the pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses classical cultural dimension by Hofstede and links them with three conflict management styles “integrating”, “avoiding” and “competing” in analysing three main measurements of the pandemic (test rate, case rate and death rate). The study analyses data from 116 countries and clusters them using a combination of agglomerative hierarchical clustering (AHC) and K-means clustering.

Findings

The study shows there are six nation clusters with different ways of handling COVID-19, driven by their underlying dominant culture dimension. It shows that individualistic culture combined with high indulgence dimension makes fatality worse, while nations with collectivism culture or uncertainty avoidance culture are better off, especially if accompanied with restraint dimension or long-term orientation.

Originality/value

The originality of the research lies in linking Hofstede cultural dimension with modified Onishi's conflict management style in analysing how different cultures and nations manage the COVID-19 pandemic.
Evaluation of postponement strategy in the production of table wine in Brazil: a discrete event simulation approach
Authors: Gualberto Carolina Reis , Rodrigues Lásara Fabrícia , Ferreira Karine Araújo
Published: April 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop an approach to evaluate the partial postponement strategy and compare it with postponement and make-to-stock (MTS) strategies in the production of table wine in wineries in the state of Minas Gerais (south-eastern Brazil).

Design/methodology/approach

An approach based on discrete event simulation was developed to support decision-making in the wine sector. Simulation models were used to analyse partial postponement, postponement and MTS strategies in wine production. These models were inspired by a typical table wine producer selected from an exploratory study conducted in 12 wineries of Minas Gerais state in Brazil.

Findings

Hybrid strategies, such as partial postponement, favour the advantages of postponement and MTS depending on the portion of semi-finished and finished goods adopted. Wine production characteristics favour postponement and partial postponement with high semi-finished product levels (customer order-driven product) because this allows companies to reduce their inventory of bottles, despite possible increases in lost sales and costs. MTS and partial postponement with high finished product levels (forecast-driven product) present higher costs with bottled wine storage; however, these strategies reduce lost sales and improve agility and reliability in deliveries.

Research limitations/implications

Future research should analyse the production of table wines in other regions of the country and the production of fine wines.

Practical implications

The findings suggest promising perspectives for real-life applications in wineries in Brazil and other countries.

Originality/value

Simulation techniques allow the analysis of production strategies in little-known industries, such as table wine production in Brazil. The approach developed is flexible enough to support decisions and to be adapted to companies’ and markets’ characteristics and to test specific strategies.
A cross-national investigation of psychological factors of donor behavior: the case of university endowment funds
Authors: Khan Muhammad Asif , Ashraf Rohail , Baazeem Thamer Ahmad S.
Published: April 2021

Purpose

State funding is being reduced for higher education institutes (HEIs) is linked to several checks such as performance-based incentives (Hagood, 2019). This forces HEIs to look for other options for funding. Endowment funds are now becoming the main source of revenue for HEIs (Sörlin, 2007), largely provided by alumni. Thus, this study aims to examine the factors that lead to donor behavior in terms of university endowment funds.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a sample of 627 participants in the survey from public universities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and 625 from public/private universities of the United States of America (USA), the authors conducted a cross-sectional survey-based analysis. Hypotheses were tested with regression analysis.

Findings

The results revealed that in the USA, donors with substantial prestige within the institution are more likely to contribute to the endowment fund; however, in the KSA, this relationship was insignificant. Additionally, this study found that participation, brand interpretation and satisfaction positively impact identification with an organization, leading to donor behavior.

Research limitations/implications

This research has successfully identified psychological factors for endowment funding; however, mediating or moderating variables affecting donor behavior should also be considered. Further, this study considers only two countries, the KSA and the USA; therefore, a larger cross-cultural context warrants more investigation.

Practical implications

Overall results revealed several means through which the administrators and practitioners may efficiently manage and increase university endowment funds flow. This study's novelty is to conduct a cross-national investigation and identify the psychological factors of donation behavior toward university endowment funds, providing an opportunity for HEIs to understand the psychological factors in detail and motivate their alumni to be one of the important sources of funding even in developing countries.

Originality/value

Many psychological factors underlie alumni's engagement in volunteerism and donation activities, especially in cross-national settings. Following social identity theory, this study explored identity-based donor behavior in terms of supporting universities through endowment funding.
Public-Private Partnerships in transport: a critical assessment of the Caribbean
Authors: Panadès-Estruch Laura
Published: April 2021

Purpose

This article critically analyses the extent to which selected Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) transportation projects in the Caribbean subregion embrace good practices and how they benefit the public sector.

Design/methodology/approach

The article begins with the general rationale of PPPs, leading to a discussion on the specific challenges of the Caribbean subregion and an assessment of certain critical projects. The sample cases include the L F Wade International Airport in Bermuda, the cruise berthing and cargo port redevelopment project in the Cayman Islands, and the Sanger International Airport in Jamaica. There are five aspects to the critical assessment: (a) an evaluation of the type of PPP arrangement used; (b) the legal/policy framework; (c) financial implications; (d) accountability; and (e) miscellaneous data. Desk-based research is conducted as supported by both international and local sources to convey a uniquely local perspective in this under-researched area of scholarship.

Findings

PPP frameworks in the Caribbean are improving quickly but remain a work in progress. Jamaica leads the region. Bermuda trails behind. Problems of legal compliance with frameworks and limited market engagement persist, leading to risk management problems.

Originality/value

This article fills a literature gap on critical analysis of individual Caribbean PPP transportation projects. Previous reports, mostly by international organisations, cover regional or sectorial trends. Other sources take a descriptive but not critical approach.
An analysis of Indonesian government policies against COVID-19
Authors: Roziqin Ali , Mas’udi Syasya Y.F. , Sihidi Iradhad T.
Published: April 2021

Purpose

COVID-19 cases in Indonesia continue to increase and spread. This article aims to analyse the Indonesian government policies as a response in dealing with COVID-19.

Design/methodology/approach

This article is a narrative analysis with the approach of a systematic literature review.

Findings

This article found that the Indonesian government responded slowly to the COVID-19 pandemic at the beginning of its spread in March 2020. The government then issued some policies such as physical distancing, large-scale social restriction (PSBB - Pembatasan Sosial Berskala Besar) and social safety net. These policies will only work if the society follows them. The society could be the key to success of those policies, either as the support or the obstacles.

Practical implications

This policy analysis with literature review, conducted from March to July 2020 in Indonesia, provides experiences and knowledge in how to respond to the dynamic problems of public policy in dealing with the COVID-19 outbreak, especially in the context of a developing country.

Originality/value

The novelty of the article lies in the unique policy response in a diverse society. It suggests that the policymakers should pay more attention to the society’s characteristics as well as the mitigation system as a preventive measure and risk management to make clear policy in the society.
The impact of quality management practices on knowledge management processes: a study of a social security corporation in Jordan
Authors: Al Shraah Ata , Abu-Rumman Ayman , Al Madi Faisal , Alhammad Fawwaz Ali Farhan , AlJboor Ayah Ahmad
Published: April 2021

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the impact of total quality practices on knowledge management (KM) processes across a Social Security Corporation (SSC) in Jordan and explore the best approach to improve KM processes using quality management.

Design/methodology/approach

This study followed a quantitative methodology: a conceptual model was developed based on an extensive review of the related literature; an online survey was developed and distributed using the SSC's intranet; and 384 surveys were completed and used in the statistical analysis. The two-stage approach of structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to analyze and interpret the data, and was used to validate the conceptual model of this research.

Findings

Based on the statistical analysis it was found that six out of seven independent factors relating to quality management practices were confirmed to have a significant impact on the knowledge management processes (KMPs). Building upon the findings an agenda for improving KM processes using quality management is proposed.

Originality/value

This study was conducted in one organization namely the SSC because it is the largest public service organization in Jordan and offers compulsory services. The inclusion of other public organizations and companies may reflect different findings. Future research may collect data from other service industries to get a more comprehensive perspective from developing countries such as Jordan. Moreover, the population of this study included only the General Director, General Director Assistants, and Administrative Managers. Front-line employees were excluded from the data collection because the study was conducted solely from a managerial perspective.
The myriad of complex demographic responses of terrestrial mammals to climate change and gaps of knowledge: A global analysis
Authors: Paniw Maria , James Tamora D. , Ruth Archer C. , Römer Gesa , Levin Sam , Compagnoni Aldo , Che‐Castaldo Judy , Bennett Joanne M. , Mooney Andrew , Childs Dylan Z. , Ozgul Arpat , Jones Owen R. , Burns Jean H. , Beckerman Andrew P. , Patwary Abir , Sanchez‐Gassen Nora , Knight Tiffany M. , Salguero‐Gómez Roberto
Published: April 2021

Approximately 25% of mammals are currently threatened with extinction, a risk that is amplified under climate change. Species persistence under climate change is determined by the combined effects of climatic factors on multiple demographic rates (survival, development and reproduction), and hence, population dynamics. Thus, to quantify which species and regions on Earth are most vulnerable to climate‐driven extinction, a global understanding of how different demographic rates respond to climate is urgently needed.

Here, we perform a systematic review of literature on demographic responses to climate, focusing on terrestrial mammals, for which extensive demographic data are available.

To assess the full spectrum of responses, we synthesize information from studies that quantitatively link climate to multiple demographic rates. We find only 106 such studies, corresponding to 87 mammal species. These 87 species constitute <1% of all terrestrial mammals.

Our synthesis reveals a strong mismatch between the locations of demographic studies and the regions and taxa currently recognized as most vulnerable to climate change. Surprisingly, for most mammals and regions sensitive to climate change, holistic demographic responses to climate remain unknown. At the same time, we reveal that filling this knowledge gap is critical as the effects of climate change will operate via complex demographic mechanisms: a vast majority of mammal populations display projected increases in some demographic rates but declines in others, often depending on the specific environmental context, complicating simple projections of population fates.

Assessments of population viability under climate change are in critical need to gather data that account for multiple demographic responses, and coordinated actions to assess demography holistically should be prioritized for mammals and other taxa.
Navigating the nationalist landscape of exclusion: Armenian citizens of Turkey and the politics of naming
Authors: Bayar Yesim
Published: April 2021

This article examines how Armenian citizens of Turkey employ names and naming strategies in their everyday life in order to navigate a nationalist social landscape. Studies of nationalist politics in everyday life have been particularly successful in demonstrating how nationalism is experienced and reproduced through the consumption of national symbols and rituals. What remains relatively glossed over in these accounts are the individuals’ constant and dynamic engagements with nationalist politics not only through national symbols and rituals but also through everyday social practices with fellow citizens. The present study seeks to capture and analyze this latter, relatively understudied, aspect. In doing so, the discussion reveals how individuals use different name strategies in order to fend off shame and humiliation as well as inhibit threats to status advancement. Overall, the following narrative moves beyond a demonstration of the functionality of nationalism as a source of unity and solidarity. Instead, it reveals the ways in which nationalist politics and minorities’ responses align, diverge and/or conflict on the ground.
Clinical characteristics of patients with pneumatosis intestinalis
Authors: Fujii Manato , Yamashita Suguru , Tashiro Jo , Tanaka Mayuko , Takenaka Yoshiharu , Yamasaki Kazuki , Masaki Yukiyoshi
Published: April 2021

Background

Several theories explaining the development of pneumatosis intestinalis (PI) have been reported, but a substantial portion of cases have been idiopathic. Additionally, predictors of bowel ischaemia in PI have not been fully investigated, while PI with bowel ischaemia has deteriorated overall outcomes of PI.

Methods

Sixty‐four patients diagnosed with PI (2009–2019) were allocated to two groups: with (group 1;n = 15 (23%)) and without (group 2;n = 49 (77%)) bowel ischaemia. Fourteen patients underwent emergency surgery, and bowel ischaemia was identified in nine (64%). Six patients in group 1 were diagnosed with bowel ischaemia, and were treated palliatively. On medical charts, we determined underlying conditions of PI, compared the characteristics and outcomes between the groups, and identified the predictors of bowel ischaemia.

Results

Group 1 patients more commonly showed abdominal pain, lower base excess, higher C‐reactive protein concentrations, higher white blood cell counts and higher neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratios, and more frequent comorbid ascites, free air and hepatic portal vein gas. Of nine bowel ischaemia surgery patients, three (33%) died; all because of anastomotic leak. All except three patients in group 2, who presented with aspiration pneumonia, responded to treatment. Only one patient had an unknown cause (1/64, 1.6%), and various underlying conditions in secondary PI were confirmed.

Conclusion

Idiopathic PI may be identified rarely using current imaging and knowledge, but outcomes in PI patients with bowel ischaemia remain unsatisfactory. Earlier identification of bowel ischaemia by various specialists in accordance with predictors of bowel ischaemia could improve overall outcomes in PI patients.
Leadership and surgical training part 2: training toolkit for leadership development during surgical training
Authors: Barnes Tracey , Rennie Sarah C.
Published: April 2021

The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons identifies leadership as an everyday surgical skill and one of the 10 key competences expected of surgeons. However, there is limited opportunity for formal leadership training and development prior to becoming a consultant, with surgical leadership curricula within worldwide training programmes often poorly defined. As a consequence of a focus on general professional skill development, rather than specific training and assessment in leadership, observed trainee leadership skills show scope for improvement. Many studies indicate trainees report leadership skills training as beneficial and are receptive to interventions. However, most surgical leadership development courses prepare pre‐identified leaders for formal leadership positions rather than developing all surgical trainees leadership skills. Although the recently established Royal Australasian College of Surgeons ‘Surgeons as Leaders in Everyday Practice’ course helps to fill this gap, it is aimed at consultant surgeons. Most successful leadership development programmes are also longitudinal throughout surgical training and multi‐faceted.
The life cycle of trading activity and liquidity of Government of Canada bonds: Evidence from cash, repo and securities lending markets
Authors: Bulusu Narayan , Gungor Sermin
Published: April 2021

This paper documents stylized facts about the life cycle of trading activity and trading cost (i.e., market liquidity) of Government of Canada (GoC) bonds. Using a unique data set from the cash, repo and securities lending markets, we document three stylized facts. First, the trading activity of all GoC bonds follows an inverse U‐shape across all three markets, with activity peaking during the benchmark (on‐the‐run) phase. Second, the level of activity exhibits considerable heterogeneity across bonds with different maturities: shorter‐term bonds are more actively traded in the cash and repo markets, while longer‐term bonds are more active in the securities lending market. Finally, in contrast to the conventional notion that a bond becomes less liquid as it ages, our trade‐based measures indicate that the transaction cost of a GoC bond remains low in the later stages of its life cycle.
Intermediate‐term outcomes of heart transplantation for cardiac amyloidosis in the current era
Authors: Vaidya Gaurang N. , Patel Jignesh K. , Kittleson Michelle , Chang David H. , Kransdorf Evan , Geft Dael , Czer Lawrence , Vescio Robert , Esmailian Fardad , Kobashigawa Jon A.
Published: April 2021

Background

Cardiac amyloidosis (CA) has been historically noted with poor outcomes after heart transplant (HTx). However, strict patient selection, appropriate multi‐organ transplant, and aggressive post‐transplant therapy can result in favorable outcomes. We present the experience in the largest single‐center cohort of CA patients post‐HTx in the recent era.

Methods

Between January 2010 and December 2018, 51 CA patients underwent HTx—13 light‐chain amyloidosis (AL) and 38 transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTR), 49 were included. Endpoints included 3‐year survival, freedom from cardiac allograft vasculopathy (CAV), and freedom from non‐fatal major adverse cardiac events (NF‐MACE).

Results

Overall 3‐year survival was 81.6% (69.2% for AL and 86% for ATTR) and was comparable to survival for patients transplanted for non‐amyloid restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM) in the same period (89%, p = .46). Three‐year freedom from CAV (84% vs. 89%, p = .98), NF‐MACE (82% vs. 83%, p = .96), and any‐treated rejection (95% vs. 89%, p = .54) were also comparable in both groups. No recurrence in amyloid was noted in endomyocardial biopsies. Six patients (46%) with AL amyloidosis underwent autologous stem cell transplant 1‐year post‐HTx, and two patients (8%) with variant ATTR‐CA underwent combined heart‐liver transplant due to cardiac cirrhosis.

Conclusion

In the current era, both AL and ATTR cardiac amyloidosis patients have acceptable outcomes after heart transplantation.
Facilitating diabetic retinopathy screening using automated retinal image analysis in underresourced settings
Authors: Quinn Nicola , Brazionis Laima , Zhu Benjamin , Ryan Chris , D’Aloisio Rossella , Lilian Tang Hongying , Peto Tunde , Jenkins Alicia ,   the Centre of Research Excellence in Diabetic Retinopathy Study, TEAMSnet Study Groups
Published: April 2021

Aim

To evaluate an automated retinal image analysis (ARIA) of indigenous retinal fundus images against a human grading comparator for the classification of diabetic retinopathy (DR) status.

Methods

Indigenous Australian adults with type 2 diabetes (n = 410) from three remote and very remote primary‐care services in the Northern Territory, Australia, underwent teleretinal DR screening. A single, central retinal fundus photograph (opportunistic mydriasis) for each eye was later regraded using a single ARIA and a UK human grader and national DR classification system. The sensitivity and specificity of ARIA were assessed relative to the comparator. Proportionate agreement and a Kappa statistic were also computed.

Results

Retinal images from 391 and 393 participants were gradable for ‘Any DR’ by the human grader and ARIA grader, respectively. ‘Any DR’ was detected by the human grader in 185 (47.3%) participants and by ARIA in 202 (48.6%) participants (agreement =88.0%, Kappa = 0.76,), whereas proliferative DR was detected in 31 (7.9%) and 37 (9.4%) participants (agreement = 98.2%, Kappa = 0.89,), respectively. The ARIA software had 91.4 (95% CI, 86.3–95.0) sensitivity and 85.0 (95% CI, 79.3–89.5) specificity for detecting ‘Any DR’ and 96.8 (95% CI, 83.3–99.9) sensitivity and 98.3 (95% CI, 96.4–99.4) specificity for detecting proliferative DR.

Conclusions

This ARIA software has high sensitivity for detecting ‘Any DR’, hence could be used as a triage tool for human graders. High sensitivity was also found for detection of proliferative DR by ARIA. Future versions of this ARIA should include maculopathy and referable DR (CSME and/or PDR). Such ARIA software may benefit diabetes care in less‐resourced regions.
Preclinical to clinical transition experiences of dental students at an Australian Regional University
Authors: Malau‐Aduli Bunmi S. , Lee Andrew , Alele Faith , Adu Mary , Drovandi Aaron , Jones Karina
Published: April 2021

Introduction

Clinical experience is a crucial component of dental education as it prepares students for real‐world practice. Our study aimed to investigate the transition from preclinical to clinical training experiences of dental students at a regional Australian dental school.

Materials and Methods

A mixed‐methods study was conducted using a survey and focus groups. Participants were dental students who recently transitioned into clinical training. Survey data were analysed quantitatively using descriptive statistics, whilst the qualitative data were thematically analysed using the conceptual framework of organisational socialisation theory (OST).

Results

Forty‐eight of the 69 students in the cohort completed the survey and 10 participated in the focus groups. The quantitative findings revealed that the transition was perceived to be abrupt and associated with a heavy workload. However, orientation sessions and engaging in chairside teaching made transitioning into clinical studies easier. The qualitative findings revealed that the transition process occurred in three phases. In phase 1, participants navigated the educational and social challenges using developmental characteristics such as resilience and positivity. Lessons learnt in phase 1 were used to make necessary learning adjustments in phase 2 and this subsequently enhanced developmental growth in the final phase, which helped ease the transition.

Conclusion

This study confirms that transitioning into clinical training can be complex. However, the educational and socialisation challenges associated with the transition can provide stimulating developmental learning opportunities that advance students’ adjustments to the clinical environment with positive, empowering and motivational outcomes that facilitate a smooth transition.
Investigation of long interspersed element‐1 retrotransposons as potential risk factors for idiopathic temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Doyle Glenn A. , Reiner Benjamin C. , Crist Richard C. , Rao Aditya M. , Ojeah Nkechi S. , Arauco‐Shapiro Gabriella , Levinson Rachel N. , Shah Lokesh D. , Sperling Michael R. , Ferraro Thomas N. , Buono Russell J. , Berrettini Wade H.
Published: April 2021

Objective

To determine if long interspersed element‐1 (L1) retrotransposons convey risk for idiopathic temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE).

Methods

Surgically resected temporal cortex from individuals with TLE (N = 33) and postmortem temporal cortex from individuals with no known neurological disease (N = 33) were analyzed for L1 content by Restriction Enzyme Based Enriched L1Hs sequencing (REBELseq). Expression of three KCNIP4 splice variants was assessed by droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). Protein ANalysis THrough Evolutionary Relationships (PANTHER) was used to determine ontologies and pathways for lists of genes harboring L1 insertions.

Results

We identified novel L1 insertions specific to individuals with TLE, and others specific to controls. Although there were no statistically significant differences between cases and controls in the numbers of known and novel L1 insertions, PANTHER analyses of intragenic L1 insertions showed statistically significant enrichments for epilepsy‐relevant gene ontologies in both cases and controls. Gene ontologies “neuron projection development” and “calcium ion transmembrane transport” were among those found only in individuals with TLE. We confirmed novel L1 insertions in several genes associated with seizures/epilepsy, including a de novo somatic L1 retrotransposition in KCNIP4 that occurred after neural crest formation in one patient. However, ddPCR results suggest this de novo L1 did not alter KCNIP4 mRNA expression.

Significance

Given current data from this small cohort, we conclude that L1 elements, either rare heritable germline insertions or de novo somatic retrotranspositions, may contribute only minimally to overall genetic risk for idiopathic TLE. We suggest that further studies in additional patients and additional brain regions are warranted.
Relationship between locomotive syndrome, frailty and sarcopenia: Locomotive syndrome overlapped in the majority of frailty and sarcopenia patients
Authors: Ide Koichiro , Banno Tomohiro , Yamato Yu , Hasegawa Tomohiko , Yoshida Go , Yasuda Tatsuya , Arima Hideyuki , Oe Shin , Mihara Yuki , Ushirozako Hiroki , Yamada Tomohiro , Watanabe Yuh , Nakai Keiichi , Kurosu Kenta , Hoshino Hironobu , Niwa Haruo , Togawa Daisuke , Matsuyama Yukihiro
Published: April 2021

Aim

The relationship between locomotive syndrome (LS), frailty and sarcopenia is unclear. This cohort study investigates the epidemiology of the three conditions and examines the relationship between them.

Methods

The participants were 337 Japanese adults aged ≥60 years who had undergone a healthcare checkup. LS, frailty and sarcopenia were assessed using the Geriatric Locomotive Function Scale, the Kihon Checklist and the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia criteria, respectively. The epidemiological investigation and correlations of the three concepts were examined.

Results

In total, 212 participants (63%) were women. The participants' mean age was 76 years (range 60–94 years). The average Geriatric Locomotive Function Scale total score was 11.4 ± 11.2, and Kihon Checklist was 4.72 ± 3.97. A total of 202 (59.9%) participants met one of the criteria; 190 (56.9%) were diagnosed with LS, 77 (22.6%) with frailty and 26 (7.7%) with sarcopenia; and 70 out of 77 (90.1%) of frailty patients and 21 out of 26 (80.1%) of sarcopenia patients were included in LS. The relationship between the total score, subcategorical scores and survey items for each was investigated. Activities of daily living, physical function and mental status showed a strong correlation with all concepts. However, nutrition of frailty patients and muscle mass of sarcopenia patients did not correlate with other factors.

Conclusions

LS overlapped with frailty and sarcopenia. LS criteria might be useful as the best tool to screen older persons who would be at risk for requiring care in the near future. However, nutrition status could only be assessed by frailty and muscle mass by sarcopenia. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; 21: 458–464.
Effects of wheat‐legume cultures on the fermentation quality and protein degradation of silage
Authors: Xu Liuxing , Hu Yaqin , Li Xinqin , Yin Xiang , Tang Guojian , Zhang Jianguo
Published: April 2021

Among the cereal crops, whole‐crop wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) has become a common silage material in many countries of the world. However, there was little information about its planting methods. In order to obtain a optimum planting and utilization methods, this research investigated the effects of wheat‐legume cultures on the fermentation quality and protein degradation of silage. In the present research, wheat, alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), common vetch (Vicia sativa L.), milk vetch (Astragalus sinicus L.) and smooth vetch (Vicia villosa L.) were planted by monoculture and mixture of wheat with other one, and they were ensiled. There were no significant differences in pH value, lactic acid, acetic acid and butyric acid contents among all silages with wheat, either monoculture or mixture with legume (p > .05). The wheat‐legume silages had higher lactic acid and lower butyric acid contents than their corresponding legume silages (p < .05). The non‐protein nitrogen and peptide‐N contents of wheat silage were significantly lower than those of wheat‐legume silages (p < .05). Aminopeptidase and acid proteinase activities of monoculture legume and wheat‐legume silages were significantly higher than those of wheat silage (p < .05). Overall, the chemical composition of forage has a greater influence on the fermentation quality and protease activity of silage compared to epiphytic microbes. The wheat‐legume cultures could effectively improve the fermentation quality of silage compared to monoculture legumes and wheat.
Impact of early childhood caries on oral health‐related quality of life: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zaror Carlos , Matamala‐Santander Andrea , Ferrer Montse , Rivera‐Mendoza Fernando , Espinoza‐Espinoza Gerardo , Martínez‐Zapata María José
Published: April 2021

Objectives

The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review in order to assess the impact of early childhood caries (ECC) and its severity on Oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL).

Materials and Methods

An electronic search was conducted in MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane, SciELO and Lilacs databases. The study eligibility criteria were primary studies published in English, Spanish or Portuguese that assessed OHRQoL in preschool children with dental caries using validated instruments. Two researchers independently performed the selection process and data extraction. The Effective Public Health Practice Project's Quality Assessment Tool was used for the quality assessment. Random effects models were used to estimate the pooled effect for continuous and categorical data.

Results

Of 2,037 identified articles, thirty‐five studies (37 articles) met the inclusion criteria. The methodological quality was judged mainly as moderate. Children with ECC were more likely to report any impact on OHRQoL than children without caries (OR: 1.99; 95% CI: 1.51–2.62; 6 studies). Severe ECC (dmft > 5) presented a higher effect (OR: 5.00; 95% CI: 3.70–6.74; 8 studies). Sensitivity analysis including only population studies showed uncertain results on the impact of ECC on OHRQoL (OR: 1.67; 95% CI: 0.99–2.82; I2 = 95%). The symptom and psychological domains were the most affected (SMD: 0.60, 95% CI: 0.38–0.81 and SMD: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.37–0.85 respectively).

Conclusions

ECC has a negative impact on the OHRQoL of both preschoolers and their families. However, its impact on OHRQoL is diluted when it is evaluated at population level.
Reconstructive options for cutaneous dorsal hand defects
Authors: Neill Brett C. , Roberts Erin , Tolkachjov Stanislav N.
Published: April 2021

Background

Moderate to large dorsal hand defects pose reconstructive challenges owing to the small surface area, immobile adjacent finger tissue, and thin, fragile skin.

Objective

To present reconstructive options for moderate to large dorsal hand defects.

Materials and methods

First, a brief review of dorsal hand reconstructive options is discussed. Then, three approaches to reconstructing dorsal hand defects are presented based on the amount of available underlying tissue and location of the defect on the hand.

Results

In the authors' opinion, for larger defects on the mid‐distal 1st–3rd metacarpals, the single arm rotation flap is preferable. For medium‐sized defects with underlying soft tissue, a Burow's graft is appropriate. The O‐Z flap is best for medium‐ to large‐sized defects on the proximal half of the metacarpals. Defects of the digits are excluded.

Conclusion

The O‐Z rotation flap, single arm rotation flap, or Burow's graft can be used to reconstruct the majority of moderate to large dorsal hand defects.