bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of network platform interaction on corporate total factor productivity: evidence from China stock exchange investor interactive platforms
Authors: Jiang Yingbing , Xu Chuanxin , Ban Xu
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to study the impact of the questions and answers (Q&A) between investors and enterprises from the China stock exchange investor interactive platforms on the total factor productivity (TFP) of enterprises.

Design/methodology/approach

To show how the interaction influences the TFP of enterprises, the authors select Q&A records from the interactive platforms related to production, R&D and technology through the Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) topic model and choose A-share listed companies from 2010 to 2019 in China as a sample. To treat the data and test the proposed hypothesis, the authors applied OLS regression and endogeneity testing methods, such as the entropy balance test, Heckman two-stage model and the two-stage least squares regression.

Findings

This paper finds that interaction between investors and enterprises is positively correlated with TFP, and that improvements in content length and the timeliness of response can promote TFP. Interactive behavior mainly improves the TFP of enterprises by alleviating financing constraints and encouraging enterprises to increase R&D investment. This positive effect is more pronounced in companies with higher agency costs, non-high-tech companies and companies not supported by industrial policy.

Originality/value

The novelty of the research stands in the application of Python's LDA topic model to screen out Q&A records that are directly related to TFP, such as production, R&D, technology, etc., and measures the degree of information interaction between investors and enterprises from multiple dimensions, such as interaction frequency, content length and the timeliness of response.
An identity at odds: the star power of Moroccan businesswoman Noor Talbi
Authors: Sader Eric
Published: May 2022

Study level/applicability

Undergraduate university level – Core audience. Graduate university level & professional workforce – Secondary audiences

Subject area

Business – Ethics, diversity, leadership, public relations

Case overview

Noor Talbi (she) is a Moroccan entertainment entrepreneur, best but not exclusively known for her belly dancing. Noor remains actively engaged in her business enterprises. Although Noor obtained global prominence in recent decades, her life as an entertainer extends back to her childhood; Noor was born in 1970. Noor’s identity as a woman is not the gender she was identified as earlier in her life. This case explores how the complexities of identity, both personal and societal, intersect with business life as Noor is asked to use her business platform to take on the uncomfortable role of LGBT activist.

Expected learning outcomes

The expected learning outcomes are as follows: examine the nature of identity construction; weigh tradeoffs created by application of competing ethical theories; analyze and evaluate how identity ethics may impact public-facing leadership decisions; and formulate and defend recommended business responses.

Supplementary materials

Teaching Notes are available for educators only.

Social implications

This case acknowledges the prominent role of culture in grappling with complex issues. Not designed as a comprehensive overview of all workplace transgender matters, it provides an introduction to generate pause and empathy among learners. The study strives to challenge students to think of ethics and identity more broadly than how an issue such as being “out” in the workplace is often depicted.

Subject code

CSS 5: International Business
A brand hegemony rejection explanation for digital piracy
Authors: Jütte Espen , Olson Erik L.
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to uncover the influence of copyright holder/digital media policies on digital piracy behavior using the brand hegemony rejection (BHR) theory.

Design/methodology/approach

Content analysis of in-depth personal interview data from active digital pirates is analyzed using BHR theory.

Findings

BHR is found useful in understanding pirating motivations, which vary greatly across time and across digital mediums. Piracy is often motivated by profit enhancing policies of big media copyright holders, which are deemed unfair and not customer-oriented, but such motivations are greatly reduced when copyright holders offer attractive legal means to obtain digital content. Pirates generally do not feel sympathy for large media companies, but some pirates feel guilt that their actions may hurt digital content creators.

Research limitations/implications

The relatively small sample of pirates is primarily from Norway and hence may not be representative of other media markets.

Practical implications

A large portion of digital piracy can potentially be eliminated if copyright holders are customer focused and offer desired content with a format and price that are deemed fair. The technical skills of pirates are high, and they can resort to piracy whenever they feel rights holders are not customer-oriented.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first application of BHR theory to the digital piracy arena, and it is found to provide useful insights in explaining the rise and fall of piracy. This application of the BHR theory also suggests it might be usefully applied to the study of other ethically questionable consumer activities.
Consumers’ responses to moral controversies of religiously positioned brands: the effects of religiosity on brand loyalty
Authors: Chowdhury Rafi M.M.I. , Arli Denni , Septianto Felix
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study aims to examine how religiosity influences brand loyalty toward religiously positioned brands (Chick-fil-A, Forever 21, etc.) when these brands engage in morally controversial actions.

Design/methodology/approach

Study 1 investigates how religiosity affects brand loyalty when religiously positioned brands engage in religiousness-related vs nonreligiousness-related morally controversial actions. Study 2 examines several psychological processes (reactance, forgiveness and moral decoupling) as mediators of the effects of intrinsic religiosity and extrinsic religiosity on brand loyalty for controversial religious brands.

Findings

Study 1 demonstrates that religiosity leads to positive brand loyalty for religiously positioned brands in the case of both religiousness-related and nonreligiousness-related controversies. Study 2 reveals that intrinsic religiosity (extrinsic religiosity) leads to brand loyalty through moral decoupling and forgiveness, but not through reactance, when religious brands engage in religiousness-related (nonreligiousness-related) controversies.

Research limitations/implications

This research focuses on the effects of religiosity on brand loyalty for morally controversial religious brands but does not examine the effects of religious affiliation (Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, etc.). The samples include only US residents.

Practical implications

Religious positioning of brands can engender brand loyalty for consumers with high levels of intrinsic religiosity and/or extrinsic religiosity, even when these brands engage in morally controversial actions.

Originality/value

This research shows that religiosity affects brand loyalty for morally controversial religious brands and demonstrates that psychological processes used by consumers to justify support for morally controversial religious brands depend on type of religiosity (intrinsic vs extrinsic) and type of controversy (religiousness-related and nonreligiousness-related).
Privacy and interaction preferences of students in informal learning spaces on university campus
Authors: Zhang Jia , Ding Ding , Liu Chunlu , Luther Mark , Zhao Jilong , Liu Changan
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse privacy and interaction preferences in the social dimension of individual learning students and how the spatial configuration affects individual learners’ choices of learning spaces.

Design/methodology/approach

This empirical survey study was conducted in an Australian university’s informal learning spaces. Space syntax theories are applied to construct a four-quadrant theoretical framework.

Findings

The research findings indicate that based on the differences between students in their individual characteristics, there are significant differences in their needs for privacy and interaction. This study reveals that the spatial configuration affects individual learners’ choices of learning spaces.

Originality/value

This study could assist universities in providing students with more effective and diverse informal learning spaces.
Vulnerability of Islamic banking in ASEAN
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad , Kusuma Hadri , Sunaryati Sunaryati
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This research evaluated the impact of credit risk, liquidity risk, profitability, economic growth and good governance on the vulnerability of the Islamic banking system in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Design/methodology/approach

The panel regression analysis was used to obtain data from five ASEAN countries that had operated Islamic banks from 2010 to 2019.

Findings

The results obtained from the vulnerability model indicated that bank liquidity risk, profitability and good governance have significant impacts on vulnerability. Conversely, credit risk and economic growth showed an insignificant effect on susceptibility. Good governance helps increase investment attractiveness for economic growth and development in Islamic banks in ASEAN.

Research limitations/implications

Some of the limitations of this research include its focus on the vulnerability of Islamic banks in ASEAN countries. The average value of six indices is used as a single index per country with good governance. Therefore, further research needs to consider using all six indices of good governance as factors affecting the vulnerability of Islamic banks, such as control of corruption, government effectiveness, political stability, absence of violence, regulatory quality, the rule of law voice and accountability.

Practical implications

This research describes banking financial circumstances and their internal activities. Furthermore, it helps managers or banking practitioners in the proper management of finance, specifically at the vulnerability level, to aid in the early detection of crisis to enable early aversion or minimal impact.

Social implications

This research is expected to assist governments in ASEAN countries to establish public policies and build good governance to increase investment interest in the Islamic banking industry.

Originality/value

This research is the author's first attempt at discussing the issues of bank vulnerability related to good governance faced by the Islamic banking system in ASEAN.
Effect of waste glass powder, microsilica and polypropylene fibers on ductility, flexural and impact strengths of lightweight concrete
Authors: Najaf Erfan , Abbasi Hassan , Zahrai Seyed Mehdi
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Today, using lightweight structural concrete plays a major role in reducing the damage to concrete structures. On the other hand, lightweight concretes have lower compressive and flexural strengths with lower impact resistance compared to ordinary concretes. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of simultaneous use of waste glass powder, microsilica and polypropylene fibers to make sustainable lightweight concrete that has high compressive and flexural strengths, ductility and impact resistance.

Design/methodology/approach

In this article, the lightweight structural concrete is studied to compensate for the lower strength of lightweight concrete. Also, considering the environmental aspects, microsilica as a partial replacement for cement, waste glass powder instead of some aggregates and polypropylene fibers are used. Microsilica was used at 8, 10 and 12 wt% of cement. Waste glass powder was added to 20, 25 and 30 wt% of aggregates, while fibers were used at 0.5, 1 and 1.5 wt% of cement.

Findings

After making the experimental specimens, compressive strength, flexural strength and impact resistance tests were performed. Ultimately, it was concluded that the best percentage of used microsilica and glass powder was equal to 10 and 25%, respectively. Furthermore, using 1.5 wt% of fibers could significantly improve the compressive and flexural strengths of lightweight concrete and increase its impact resistance at the same time. For constructing a five-story building, by replacing cement with microsilica by 10 wt%, the amount of used cement is reduced by 5 tons, consequently producing 4,752 kg less CO2 that is a significant value for the environment.

Originality/value

The study provides a basis for making sustainable lightweight concrete with high strength against compressive, flexural and impact loads.
Technology readiness and data analytics competencies of the Muslim and non-Muslim external auditors: a comparative analysis
Authors: Jaffar Nahariah , Ahmad Abdul Aziz Aziz , Sulaiman Noor Adwa
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the level of technology readiness (TR) of the Muslim and non-Muslim external auditors and its effect on their data analytics competencies (DACs). Literature is insufficient in addressing the comparative analysis of these constructs among these auditing professionals.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was conducted on 201 external auditors. Questionnaire was developed based on TR and DAC literature. Pilot testing was conducted on 50 respondents, who were drawn from the sample.

Findings

Non-Muslim external auditors were found to be more technology ready than Muslim external auditors. The optimum dimension of TR was significantly different between Muslim and non-Muslim external auditors. Significant mean difference was found only for personal capabilities dimension of DAC between Muslim and non-Muslim external auditors. TR had a significant effect on Muslim external auditors’ personal capabilities dimension of DAC; however, there was insignificant effect on all DAC dimensions for non-Muslim external auditors. The highest DAC score of the external auditors were only at the beginner level for technical skills and technologies and tools expertise dimensions.

Research limitations/implications

Using students as proxies for external auditors could lead to concerns with generalisability. Nonetheless, these students were competent to act as proxies as they had completed a six-month internship at an accounting firm.

Practical implications

The findings manifested the need for Muslim external auditors to be more technology ready. External auditors need to enhance their DAC to meet digital economic needs.

Originality/value

This study advocated the importance for auditing professionals to acknowledge the new data analytics challenges.
Polychronicity, decision-making and entrepreneurial self-efficacy of venture team founders: an exploratory study
Authors: Lin Hsing-Er , Shinnar Rachel Sheli , Shi Yongchuan , Hsu Dan
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study explores the role of polychronic temporal orientation and decision-making decentralization on founders' perceptions of entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE).

Design/methodology/approach

Longitudinal survey data were collected from 141 business founders in China.

Findings

Findings suggest that decision-making decentralization is positively associated with founders' ESE. In addition, a polychronic temporal orientation is positively related to ESE, and this relationship is mediated by decision-making decentralization.

Originality/value

This study adds to existing knowledge on ESE and temporal related issues by presenting empirical evidence that explains how and why the temporal orientation context and the practice of decision-making decentralization can shape ESE perceptions among venture founders.
Association between psoriasis and alopecia areata: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Jung Joon Min , Yang Hee Joo , Lee Woo Jin , Won Chong Hyun , Lee Mi Woo , Chang Sung Eun
Published: May 2022

The association between psoriasis and alopecia areata has not been thoroughly investigated. The objective of this study is to investigate the association of psoriasis with alopecia areata. An electronic search was conducted in August 2021. The analysis included studies that reported sufficient data on the prevalence, odds, or hazard of alopecia areata in patients with psoriasis or that of psoriasis in patients with alopecia areata. Meta‐analysis using an inverse variance method was performed with a random‐effects model, assuming inherent heterogeneity between the included studies. The subgroup analyses were performed according to the age group and study quality. A total of 27 studies were included. The pooled prevalence of alopecia areata among patients with psoriasis was 0.5% (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.3–0.7%). The pooled odds ratio of alopecia areata among patients with psoriasis was 2.71 (95% CI, 2.29–3.21), whereas the pooled prevalence of psoriasis among patients with alopecia areata was 2.5% (95% CI, 2.0–3.0%). Moreover, the pooled odds ratio of psoriasis among patients with alopecia areata was 3.52 (95% CI, 1.27–9.74). The association of psoriasis and alopecia areata remained in the subgroup analyses according to the age group and study quality. In conclusion, this study suggests a bidirectional association between psoriasis and alopecia areata. Clinical examinations may be necessary to determine the presence of comorbid alopecia areata in patients with psoriasis and vice versa.
Male song stability shows cross‐year repeatability but does not affect reproductive success in a wild passerine bird
Authors: Hutfluss Alexander , Bermúdez‐Cuamatzin Eira , Mouchet Alexia , Briffa Mark , Slabbekoorn Hans , Dingemanse Niels J.
Published: May 2022

Predictable behaviour (or ‘behavioural stability’) might be favoured in certain ecological contexts, for example when representing a quality signal. Costs associated with producing stable phenotypes imply selection should favour plasticity in stability when beneficial. Repeatable among‐individual differences in degree of stability are simultaneously expected if individuals differ in ability to pay these costs, or in how they resolve cost–benefit trade‐offs.

Bird song represents a prime example, where stability may be costly yet beneficial when stable singing is a quality signal favoured by sexual selection. Assuming energetic costs, ecological variation (e.g. in food availability) should result in both within‐ and among‐individual variation in stability. If song stability represents a quality signal, we expect directional selection favouring stable singers.

For a 3‐year period, we monitored 12 nest box plots of great tits Parus major during breeding. We recorded male songs during simulated territory intrusions, twice during their mate's laying stage and twice during incubation. Each preceding winter, we manipulated food availability. Assuming that stability is costly, we expected food‐supplemented males to sing more stable songs. We also expected males to sing more stable songs early in the breeding season (when paternity is not decided) and stable singers to have increased reproductive success.

We found strong support for plasticity in stability for two key song characteristics: minimum frequency and phrase length. Males were plastic because they became more stable over the season, contrary to expectations. Food supplementation did not affect body condition but increased stability in minimum frequency. This treatment effect occurred only in 1 year, implying that food supplementation affected stability only in interaction with (unknown) year‐specific ecological factors.

We found no support for directional, correlational or fluctuating selection on the stability in minimum frequency (i.e. the song trait whose stability exhibited cross‐year repeatability): stable singers did not have higher reproductive success. Our findings imply that stability in minimum frequency is not a fitness quality indicator unless males enjoy fitness benefits via pathways not studied here. Future studies should thus address the mechanisms shaping and maintaining individual repeatability of song stability in the wild.
Abandoned pastures and restored savannas have distinct patterns of plant–soil feedback and nutrient cycling compared with native Brazilian savannas
Authors: D'Angioli André M. , Giles André L. , Costa Patricia B. , Wolfsdorf Gabriel , Pecoral Luisa L. F. , Verona Larissa , Piccolo Fernanda , Sampaio Alexandre B. , Schmidt Isabel B. , Rowland Lucy , Lambers Hans , Kandeler Ellen , Oliveira Rafael S. , Abrahão Anna
Published: May 2022

Around 40% of the original Brazilian savanna territory is occupied by pastures dominated by fast‐growing exotic C4 grasses, which impact ecosystem nutrient cycling. The restoration of these areas depends on the re‐establishment of soil processes.

We assessed how restoration of abandoned pastures through direct seeding of native species and land‐management practices (burning and ploughing) affect soil nutrient cycling dynamics compared with native savannas. We compared the activity of soil enzymes related to carbon, nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) cycling as well as soil microbial biomass and soil chemical properties (pH and the concentration of N, P, potassium [K] and soil organic matter) among abandoned pastures, native savanna and restored areas.

Abandoned pastures had faster nutrient turnover than native savanna, dominated by slow‐growing native species. This pattern was evident from the overall higher biomass‐specific enzyme activities in abandoned pastures than in native savanna. Compared with native savanna, restored areas had similar levels of soil enzyme activities, but lower microbial biomass and soil organic matter. The low enzyme activity in restored areas was likely related to a reduced soil organic carbon concentration due to practices such as burning and ploughing, rather than the restoration of plant–soil feedback. The lower immobilization of nutrients in microbial biomass and lower retention of nutrients in restored areas, compared with native savanna, is expected to favour the re‐establishment of fast‐growing exotic species.

Synthesis and application. Despite reducing the resprouting and germination of exotic grasses and improving the establishment of native grasses in the short term, restoration practices have major impacts on the soil microbial community and soil fertility. The reduction of soil microbial biomass and organic matter content reduces the immobilization of soil nutrients and is expected to favour a fast nutrient turnover in the ecosystem. This may result in the re‐establishment of exotic grasses in the long term. Future efforts should focus on the recovery of soil organic matter content and the establishment of soil microbial communities similar to native ecosystems after the application of land‐management practices. Therefore, the restoration of abandoned pastures should consider a greater focus on restoring soil carbon and nutrient cycling
It is Time for a New Regional Compact!
Authors: Curtain Richard , Edwards Ryan B , Tani Massimiliano , Withers Glenn
Published: May 2022

We outline the case for Australia to adopt a ‘New Regional Compact’ focusing on working with its Pacific Island neighbours and Timor‐Leste through improved labour mobility and skilling as a complement to foreign aid and development assistance. We examine the distinctive context and evidence for this approach, related policy settings and possible ways forward. Embedded in this shift is a necessary move from a short‐term focus on temporary migration, skills shortage, and limited‐term aid programs, to long‐term foundational policies that can be a permanent feature of Australia's policy ecosystem and that of its neighbours.
Anuran interorbital distance variation: the role of ecological and behavioral factors
Authors: JIANG Ying , CHEN Chuan , LIAO Wenbo
Published: May 2022

Eye position varies significantly among taxonomic levels, and this variation is often shaped by ecological and behavioral factors. Eye position is often positively associated with interorbital distance where species with broad visual fields possess a large distance between the left and right eye. Selective pressures underlying the evolution of the eye position are especially studied in birds and mammals. However, selective pressures underlying the evolution of anuran eye position which can be indicated by interorbital distance keep unknown. Here, we investigated the effects of ecological (e.g. habitat type, light availability) and behavioral factors (e.g. activity pattern, foraging mobility, and defensive strategy) on variations in interorbital distance among 260 anuran species in China. Our results showed that variations of the interorbital distance can be significantly predicted by the activity pattern. Nocturnal species had larger interorbital distance than both nocturnal and diurnal species. We also found that foraging mobility and defensive strategy markedly affected variation of interorbital distance. Species having slower foraging mobility and possessing poison glands had larger interorbital distance than species having faster foraging mobility and possessing non‐position glands. Light availability tended to be associated with variation of interorbital distance, indicating that species living in weak light tended to possess larger interorbital distance. However, variations of the interorbital space were not associated with habitat type in anurans. Our findings suggest that anuran behaviors play key roles in shaping visual fields and eye position, thus affecting the evolution of interorbital distance.
Kidney disease parameters, metabolic goal achievement, and arterial stiffness risk in Chinese adult people with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Xu Chen , Li Li , Shi Juan , Ji Bangqun , Zheng Qidong , Wang Yufan , Ke Tingyu , Li Li , Zhao Dong , Dai Yuancheng , Xu Fengmei , Peng Ying , Zhang Yifei , Dong Qijuan , Wang Weiqing
Published: May 2022

Background

To investigate the arterial stiffness (AS) risk within urinary albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio (UACR) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) categories and the joint effect between kidney disease parameters and metabolic goal achievement on AS risk in adult people with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods

A total of 27 439 Chinese participants with T2D from 10 National Metabolic Management Centers (MMC) were categorized into four albuminuria/decreased eGFR groups. The criteria for decreased eGFR and AS were eGFR <90 ml/min/1.73 m2 and brachial‐ankle pulse wave velocity value >the 75th percentile (1770.0 cm/s). Three metabolic goals were defined as glycated hemoglobin <7%, BP <130/80 mmHg, andlow‐density lipoprotein cholesterol <2.6 mmol/L.

Results

After full adjustment, odds ratios (ORs) for AS were highest for albuminuria and decreased eGFR (2.23 [1.98–2.52]) and were higher for albuminuria and normal eGFR (1.52 [1.39–1.67]) than for those with nonalbuminuria and decreased eGFR (1.17 [1.04–1.32]). Both UACR and eGFR in the subgroup or overall population independently correlated with AS risk. The achievement of ≥2 metabolic goals counteracted the association between albuminuria and AS risk (OR: 0.93; 95% CI: 0.80–1.07; p = .311). When the metabolic goals added up to ≥2 for patients with decreased eGFR, they showed significantly lower AS risk (OR: 0.65; 95% CI: 0.56–0.74; p < .001).

Conclusions

Both higher UACR and lower eGFR are determinants of AS risk, with UACR more strongly related to AS than eGFR in adults with T2D. The correlation between albuminuria/decreased eGFR and AS was modified by the achievement of multiple metabolic elements.
The pathophysiology and current treatments for the subcutaneous panniculitis‐like T cell lymphoma: An updated review
Authors: Lin En‐Cheng , Liao Jia‐Bin , Fang Yu‐Han , Hong Chien‐Hui
Published: May 2022

Subcutaneous panniculitis‐like T cell lymphoma (SPTCL) is a rare cutaneous T cell lymphoma, which is indolent in nature but could claim life if not correctly diagnosed and promptly treated. SPTCL is usually presented clinically as painless subcutaneous and erythematous nodules over the trunk or extremities. Active clinical vigilance for these subcutaneous nodules or panniculitis‐like lesions is warranted. A biopsy must be performed in order to make a correct diagnosis. Positron emission tomography scan is utilized for disease staging and treatment follow‐up. Due to the rarity of this lymphoma, a standard treatment protocol is not established yet. However, most cases of SPTCL could be treated well under immunosuppressive or polychemotherapeutic drugs except in cases with hemophagocytic syndrome. Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation may be used in refractory or relapse cases. In this review, we presented a case of SPTCL with long‐term complete remission. Meanwhile, since most clinical evidences and experiences of SPTCL are based mostly on case reports or small case series, and the understanding of the SPTCL pathophysiology is limited, we reviewed and updated the pathophysiology and treatments of SPTCL.
Bad, mad, or glad? Exploring the relationship between leaders' appraisals or attributions of their use of abusive supervision and emotional reactions
Authors: Shen Winny , Evans Rochelle , Liang Lindie H. , Brown Douglas J.
Published: May 2022

A large body of research has documented the ill effects of abusive supervision. However, this begs the question of why these behaviors continue to occur. To address this question, we contend that scholars need to understand how leaders—the perpetrators of these actions—make sense of abusive supervision. Specifically, drawing upon theories of appraisal and attribution, this paper examines leaders' cognitions of who is accountable for incidents of abusive supervision (i.e., the leader or the subordinate) and their future expectations (i.e., are individuals likely to engage in the same behaviors subsequently or are capable of change) and how these appraisals interact to shape emotional reactions. We conducted three complementary studies: a pilot study to identify relevant emotions, an event‐based experience sampling study (Study 1), and a retrospective recall study (Study 2). Accountability appraisals were associated with emotions, such that appraisals that oneself (vs. one's subordinate) was more responsible for the incident were linked to higher levels of guilt and shame. Although growth mindset moderated associations between accountability appraisals and emotions, it did so for different emotions across the two studies (i.e., hostility in Study 1 and shame in Study 2). Implications for theory and practice are discussed.
Absorption, metabolism and excretion of opicapone in human healthy volunteers
Authors: Loureiro Ana I. , Rocha Francisco , Santos Ana T. , Singh Nand , Bonifácio Maria João , Pinto Rui , Kiss Laszlo E. , Soares‐da‐Silva Patrício
Published: May 2022

Aims

The absorption, metabolism and excretion of opicapone (2,5‐dichloro‐3‐(5‐[3,4‐dihydroxy‐5‐nitrophenyl]‐1,2,4‐oxadiazol‐3‐yl)‐4,6‐dimethylpyridine 1‐oxide), a selective catechol‐O‐methyltransferase inhibitor, were investigated.

Methods

Plasma, urine and faeces were collected from healthy male subjects following a single oral dose of 100 mg [14C]‐opicapone. The mass balance of [14C]‐opicapone and metabolic profile were evaluated.

Results

The recovery of total administered radioactivity averaged >90% after 144 hours. Faeces were the major route of elimination, representing 70% of the administered dose; 5% and 20% were excreted in urine and expired air, respectively. The Cmax of total radioactivity matched that of unchanged opicapone, whereas the total radioactivity remained quantifiable for a longer period, attributed to the contribution of opicapone metabolites, involving primarily 3‐O‐sulfate conjugation (58.6% of total circulating radioactivity) at the nitrocatechol ring. Other circulating metabolites, accounting for <10% of the radioactivity exposure, were formed by glucuronidation, methylation, N‐oxide reduction and gluthatione conjugation. Additionally, various other metabolites resulting from combinations with the opicapone N‐oxide reduced form at the 2,5‐dichloro‐4,6‐dimethylpyridine 1‐oxide moiety, including nitro reduction and N‐acetylation, reductive opening and cleavage of the 1,2,4‐oxadiazole ring and the subsequent hydrolysis products were identified, but only in faeces, suggesting the involvement of gut bacteria.

Conclusion

[14C]‐opicapone was fully excreted through multiple metabolic pathways. The main route of excretion was in faeces, where opicapone may be further metabolized via reductive metabolism involving the 1,2,4‐oxadiazole ring‐opening and subsequent hydrolysis.
Higher incidence of neurotoxicity and skin hyperpigmentation in renal transplant patients treated with polymyxin B
Authors: Zhou Yangang , Li Ying , Xie Xubiao , Song Lei , Lan Gongbin , Sun Bao , Tang Tiantian , Yan Han , Zhang Bikui , Xu Ping
Published: May 2022

Background

Toxicity is a major concern related to the clinical use of polymyxin B, and available safety data for renal transplant patients are limited.

Aims

We investigated the safety of polymyxin B and toxicity risk factors in renal transplant patients.

Methods

A prospective study was performed on a group of renal transplant patients who received intravenous polymyxin B between January 2018 and August 2021. Polymyxin B treatment was monitored to evaluate toxicity and risk factors.

Results

A total of 235 courses of polymyxin B were administered to 213 patients. Of these, 121 (51.5%) developed skin hyperpigmentation (SH), 149 (63.4%) developed neurotoxicity and 10 (5.5%) developed acute kidney injury of which 80% was reversible. Risk factors for developing SH included a high total dose by weight (odds ration [OR] 1.31, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.08–1.60, P = .008) and the presence of neurotoxicity (OR 2.86, 95% CI 1.56–5.26, P = .001). Neurotoxicity manifested during the first 2 days of treatment. Neurotoxicity occurred most commonly in women (OR 3.84, 95% CI 1.82–8.10, P < .0001), and the presence of SH (OR 1.98, 95% CI 1.13–3.46, P = .016) was also an independent risk factor.

Conclusions

Neurotoxicity and SH are the two major adverse effects of polymyxin B in renal transplant patients, which may limit its clinical use.
Of drills and bones: Giovanni Ghedini and the origin of bone marrow biopsy
Authors: Pizzi Marco , Binotto Gianni , Rigoni Savioli Giulia , Dei Tos Angelo Paolo , Orazi Attilio
Published: May 2022

Bone marrow (BM) studies are pivotal for the diagnosis of haematological disorders. Their introduction into clinical haematology dates back to the work of Giovanni Ghedini (1877–1959), an Italian physician who first conceived BM sampling in 1908. Ghedini's proposal stemmed from his clinical experience and from the scientific developments that characterised his epoch. By presenting selected passages of Ghedini's publications, this report considers the theoretical and historical bases of his work and analyses its practical implications for modern haematology.
Neurodisability care in the time of COVID‐19
Authors: Arichi Tomoki , Cadwgan Jill , McDonald Aoife , Patel Anita , Turner Susie , Barkey Sinead , Lumsden Daniel E. , Fairhurst Charlie
Published: May 2022

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic resulted in an unprecedented societal and healthcare global crisis. Associated changes in regular healthcare provision and lifestyle through societal lockdown are likely to have affected clinical management and well‐being of children/young people with neurodisability, who often require complex packages of multidisciplinary care.

Methods

We surveyed 108 families of children/young people with severe physical neurodisability and multiple comorbidities to understand how the pandemic had affected acute clinical status, routine healthcare provision, schooling and family mental and social well‐being.

Results

A significant proportion of families reported missing hospital appointments and routine therapy, with subsequent worsening of symptoms and function. Families additionally described worsening stress and anxiety during the pandemic, regardless of their baseline level of socio‐economic deprivation.

Conclusion

This highlights the profound effect of the COVID‐19 pandemic on health and function in young people with severe neurodisabilities and emphasizes the clear need to better understand how to support this vulnerable population moving forwards.
Empiric radioiodine for hyperthyroidism: Outcomes, prescribing patterns, and its place in the modern era of theranostics
Authors: Boehm Emma , Kao Yung Hsiang , Lai Jeffrey , Wraight Paul R. , Sivaratnam Dinesh A.
Published: May 2022

Background

The modern era of radioiodine (I‐131) theranostics for metastatic differentiated thyroid cancer requires us to rationalize the role of traditional empiric prescription in nonmalignant thyroid disease. We currently practice empiric I‐131 prescription for treatment of hyperthyroidism. This study aims to assess outcomes after treatment of hyperthyroidism by empiric I‐131 prescription at our centre, evaluate factors that impact on outcomes and prescribing practice, and gain insight into whether there is a place for theranostically‐guided prescription in hyperthyroidism.

Patients and Methods

A retrospective review was undertaken of all patients with Graves' disease, toxic multinodular goitre (MNG) and toxic adenoma treated with I‐131 between 2016 and 2021. Associations between clinical or scintigraphic variables and remission (euthyroid or hypothyroid) or persistence of hyperthyroidism at follow‐up were performed using standard t test as well as Pearson's product correlation.

Results

Of 146 patients with a mean follow‐up of 13.6 months, 80.8% achieved remission of hyperthyroidism. This was highest in toxic nodules (90.1%), compared with Graves' disease (73.8%) and toxic MNG (75.5%). In patients with Graves' disease, higher administered activity was associated with remission (p = .035). There was a weak inverse correlation between the Tc‐99m pertechnetate uptake vs prescribed activity in Graves' disease (r = −0.33; p = .009). Only one patient (0.7%) had an I‐131 induced flare of thyrotoxicosis.

Conclusion

Traditional empiric I‐131 prescription is a safe and effective treatment of hyperthyroidism and suitable for most patients. However, there may be a role for personalized I‐131 prescription by theranostic guidance in selected patients with high thyroid hyperactivity.
Long‐term clinical outcomes of short implant (6mm) in relation to Implant Disease Risk Assessment (IDRA)
Authors: Mo Jia‐Ji , Lai Yi‐Rao , Qian Shu‐Jiao , Shi Jun‐Yu , Lai Hong‐Chang , Tang Guo‐Yao
Published: May 2022

Aim

To evaluate the long‐term survival of short implants and to investigate the association of the Implant Disease Risk Assessment (IDRA) with the occurrence of biological complications.

Material and Methods

This study was designed as a cohort study with a median follow‐up of 10.0 years. Patients who had received 6‐mm implants were reviewed and assigned into low‐, moderate‐, and high‐risk groups (Group L, M, and H) based on the IDRA tool. The implant survival, biological complications, soft tissue condition, hardware complications, and marginal bone loss (MBL) were evaluated. Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox regression were performed for survival analysis.

Results

A hundred and ten patients were included. The overall cumulative survival rate was 90.9% (L:100.0%, M: 93.3%, and H: 80.6%). A higher risk profile was significantly associated with a decreased implant survival (hazard ratio: 4.11, 95% CI: 1.17–14.36, p < .05). Higher risk profile (hazard ratio: 2.63, 95% CI: 1.32–5.25, p < .05) was a potential risk factor for biological complications. At follow‐up, significant differences in bleeding index, modified plaque index, and peri‐implant probing depth were found among groups (p < .01). No significant difference was found in MBL.

Conclusion

Acceptable long‐term clinical outcomes could be achieved after 10 years for short implants. Despite a statistically nonsignificant difference in MBL, patients with a high‐risk profile of IDRA seem to be at greater risk of implant loss and biological complications.
Pre‐ and post‐conditioning with poly I:C exerts neuroprotective effect against cerebral ischemia injury in animal models: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Khan Zeeshan Ahmad , Sumsuzzman Dewan Md. , Choi Jeonghyun , Kamenos George , Hong Yonggeun
Published: May 2022

Background

Toll‐like receptor (TLR) agonist polyinosinic–polycytidylic acid (poly I:C) exerts neuroprotective effects against cerebral ischemia (CI), but concrete evidence supporting its exact mechanism of action is unclear.

Methods

We evaluated the neuroprotective role of poly I:C by assessing CI indicators such as brain infarct volume (BIV), neurological deficit score (N.S.), and signaling pathway proteins. Moreover, we performed a narrative review to illustrate the mechanism of action of TLRs and their role in CI. Our search identified 164 articles and 10 met the inclusion criterion.

Results

Poly I:C reduces BIV and N.S. (p = 0.00 and p = 0.03). Interestingly, both pre‐ and post‐conditioning decrease BIV (preC p = 0.04 and postC p = 0.00) and N.S. (preC p = 0.03 and postC p = 0.00). Furthermore, poly I:C upregulates TLR3 [SMD = 0.64; CIs (0.56, 0.72); p = 0.00], downregulates nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) [SMD = −1.78; CIs (−2.67, −0.88); p = 0.0)], and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) [SMD = −16.83; CIs (−22.63, −11.02); p = 0.00].

Conclusion

We showed that poly I:C is neuroprotective and acts via the TLR3/NF‐κB/TNF‐α pathway. Our review indicated that suppressing TLR 2/4 may illicit neuroprotection against CI. Further research on simultaneous activation of TLR3 with poly I:C and suppression of TLR 2/4 might open new vistas for the development of therapeutics against CI.
Research progress of extracellular vesicles in type 2 diabetes and its complications
Authors: Zhang Mengting , Wang Lanfeng , Chen Zhiping
Published: May 2022

Type 2 diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases in modern society. However, there is still insufficient research on the pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of type 2 diabetes and its complications. Extracellular vesicles are small bilayer vesicles secreted by cells. In recent years, the effect of extracellular vesicles in type 2 diabetes and its complications has aroused extensive attention. The research on the influence of protein and nucleic acids carried by extracellular vesicles secreted by stem cells and inflammatory cells on the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes and its complications provides new ideas for its diagnosis and treatment. This review focuses on the influence of extracellular vesicles on insulin resistance by regulating inflammation and glucose transporter 4 expression. The second part mainly discusses the research progress and limitations of extracellular vesicles use in treating and diagnosing type 2 diabetes and its complications. This review introduces the current research status of type 2 diabetes and its complications, illustrates the biogenesis of extracellular vesicles, their effect on type 2 diabetes pathogenesis and its complications and their potential as therapeutic tools and diagnostic markers in type 2 diabetes and its complications.
Local Leaders' Perceptions of Housing Access and Segregation in their Communities
Authors: Diaz‐Valenzuela Jose‐Francisco , Holman Marlena , Zhang Yu , Skobba Kim
Published: May 2022

Research on housing discrimination and segregation usually focuses on federal‐level actions, yet access to housing is determined locally. Local government leaders influence whether or not their communities provide housing to meet all residents' needs. This study uses a statewide survey of local leaders from 240 different municipalities in one Southeastern state to better understand their perceptions of local housing opportunities. The findings, which present areas for future research, suggest that the perceptions of some local leaders may be shaped by the housing needs of an idealized community. Additionally, the needs of some residents may be less visible to local leaders.
Regulatory phosphorylation event of phosphoglucomutase 1 tunes its activity to regulate glycogen metabolism
Authors: Doello Sofía , Neumann Niels , Forchhammer Karl
Published: May 2022

Regulation of glycogen metabolism is of vital importance in organisms of all three kingdoms of life. Although the pathways involved in glycogen synthesis and degradation are well known, many regulatory aspects around the metabolism of this polysaccharide remain undeciphered. Here, we used the unicellular cyanobacterium Synechocystis as a model to investigate how glycogen metabolism is regulated in nitrogen‐starved dormant cells, which entirely rely on glycogen catabolism to resume growth upon nitrogen repletion. We identified phosphoglucomutase 1 (PGM1) as a key regulatory point in glycogen metabolism, and post‐translational modification as an essential mechanism for controlling its activity. We could show that PGM1 is phosphorylated ata residue in the regulatory latch domain (Ser 47) during nitrogen starvation, which inhibits its activity. Inactivation of PGM1 by phosphorylation at Ser 47 prevents premature degradation of the glycogen stores and appears to be essential for survival of Synechocystis in the dormant state. Remarkably, this regulatory mechanism seems to be evolutionary conserved in PGM1 enzymes, from bacteria to humans.
Trichoscopy beyond scalp. A narrative review
Authors: Shakshouk Hadir , Tosti Antonella
Published: May 2022

Dermoscopy is becoming an indispensable tool in everyday practice, with an expanding range of applications. Trichoscopy is effective not only in establishing the diagnosis of scalp disorders but also in the follow‐up of treatment. The MEDLINE database was searched using the terms “dermoscopy” and “trichoscopy” in combination with each of the following: “axilla,” “pubic area,” “beard,” “eyebrows,” “eyelashes,” and “body hairs.” We included case reports, case series, and review articles mentioning the previous terms. By providing an updated review from the literature, we aimed to emphasize the potential uses of trichoscopy in detecting diseases in hairy locations other than the scalp. Various inflammatory conditions, infections, and infestations are discussed.
Migration 2030: Governing migration in a globalising world
Authors: Triandafyllidou Anna
Published: May 2022

International migration is arguably an important challenge and opportunity for the world today. In these two first decades of the 21st century, we are witnessing important changes in the direction of flows, the motivations of people on the move and the complex patterns of human migration. In addition, 2020 has brought an extraordinary and unexpected pandemic crisis, that has temporarily brought international migration to a standstill while further exacerbating inequalities and vulnerabilities of migrants and their families. This special issue finds its origins in the inaugural conference of the Canada Excellence Research Chair in Migration and Integration programme at Ryerson University in Toronto which took place in February 2020, while the COVID‐19 epidemic was being felt in China but was still believed to remain a regional and short‐lived challenge. As we developed our writing, COVID‐19 turned into a global pandemic pushing us also to rethink some of our considerations and arguments. The first set of papers aims to unsettle the main migration policy narratives and to critically engage with dominant views of international migration governance. The second set of papers focuses on the new complex realities of temporary migration, investigating critically policies and practices in different world regions, and how they compound vulnerabilities for migrants while failing to offer a sustainable way forward.