bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unpacking the complexity of online incivility: an analysis of characteristics and impact of uncivil behavior during the Hong Kong protests
Authors: Li Baiqi , Song Yunya , Shi Yongren , Chen Hsuan-Ting
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study seeks to establish a new framework for categorizing incivility, differentiating between explicit and implicit forms, and to investigate their respective abilities to proliferate and mobilize conversations, along with behavioral outcomes in various social contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing computational techniques, this research analyzed 10,145 protest-related threads from the HK Golden Forum, a prominent online discussion board in Hong Kong.

Findings

Our analysis revealed divergent effects of explicit and implicit incivility on their diffusion, influences on deliberative discussions, and user participation. Explicit incivility was found to impede deliberative conversations, while implicit incivility tended to provoke more responses. Explicit uncivil expressions encouraged the propagation of incivility but reduced the likelihood of individual involvement. In contrast, implicit incivility had a stronger dampening effect on further uncivil comments and achieved greater thread popularity. The results showed strong associations between uncivil expressions and the contextual norms surrounding social movements.

Originality/value

Theoretically, this research introduced a classification of incivility and underscored the importance of differentiating between implicit and explicit incivility by examining their effects on deliberation and engagement. Although previous studies have extensively covered explicit incivility, this study goes further by analyzing implicit incivility and comparing both forms of uncivil discourse in a less-studied context. Methodologically, the study developed a Cantonese dictionary to differentiate between two types of incivility, providing a practical reference for more nuanced analyses. By revealing how varying movement norms moderate the interplay between deliberative and uncivil expressions, the study drew attention to the highly situational nature of incivility.
What drives social shopping in social commerce platform? The effects of affordance, self-congruity and functional-congruity
Authors: Gong Xiang , Yang Yi , Wu Wei
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Social group system and social tagging system, which leverage the psychological mechanisms underlying group influence and social tags to drive consumer behaviors, have been prevalent in the social commerce platform. However, limited studies have examined how the affordances of social group system and social tagging system influence consumers’ social shopping behavior. The purpose of this study is to examine the formation of social shopping behavior in the social commerce platform.

Design/methodology/approach

Combining affordance theory with dual-congruity theory, we develop a model to examine how the affordances of social group system and social tagging system influence consumers’ social shopping behavior through the underlying self-congruity and functional-congruity processes. We empirically validate the research model using a multimethod approach, including an instrument development study and a field survey study.

Findings

Our empirical findings show that social support positively influences relational identity, while it has a nonsignificant effect on social identity. Social interactivity positively influences relational identity and social identity. Furthermore, social tagging quality and social endorser credibility positively affect perceived diagnosticity and perceived serendipity. Finally, relational identity, social identity, perceived diagnosticity and perceived serendipity collectively determine consumers’ social shopping intention.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the theoretical understanding of social shopping in social commerce and offers practical implications for designing an effective social group system and social tagging system to boost product sales.
Ethical leadership and followers’ job crafting: the mediating role of followers’ role-breadth self-efficacy and work engagement
Authors: Oprea Bogdan , Oancea Denisa , Avram Eugen
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The objective of this study was to investigate the link between ethical leadership and followers’ job crafting. Based on social learning theory and the job demands-resources model, we expected that followers’ role-breadth self-efficacy and work engagement would serially mediate the association between this leadership style and followers’ job crafting.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative analysis was conducted among a sample of 458 subordinates that assessed the ethical leadership of their direct supervisor and reported on their own role-breadth self-efficacy, engagement and job crafting behaviours.

Findings

Ethical leadership was positively associated with followers’ increasing structural resources, increasing social resources and increasing challenging demands. The mediation hypothesis was supported for increasing challenging demands but not for increasing social resources. Results unexpectedly suggested that the indirect positive effect suppresses the direct negative effect of ethical leadership on followers’ increasing structural resources, the total effect becoming positive. This leadership style was not associated with followers’ decreasing hindering demands.

Practical implications

The research highlights the possibility that ethical leadership trainings may stimulate followers' job crafting.

Originality/value

The study explores for the first time the relationship between this leadership style and job crafting behaviours of subordinates and, moreover, provides an explanatory mechanism for the relationship between these variables.
Unlocking proactive socialization dynamics: investigating work engagement through social capital resources, the interplay of proactive personality and perceived organizational support
Authors: Islam Azmat , Ajmal Muhammad
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the relationship between proactive socialization behaviors (PSBs) and work engagement, with a specific focus on the mediating role of social capital resources (SCRs). Additionally, it investigates how proactive personality and perceived organizational support (POS) moderate the organizational assimilation of newcomers in Punjab, Pakistan, through the lens of self-determination theory.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional survey design was employed, with data collected from diverse organizations across cities in Punjab, Pakistan, including Bhimber, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Lahore, Jhelum, Kharian, Kotla, Mandi Bahauddin, and Sialkot. A total of 1,000 questionnaires were distributed, resulting in 619 valid responses. The sample primarily consisted of individuals with varying levels of work experience, contributing to the diversity of the data. SEM was utilized to analyze the relationships between the studied variables.

Findings

Results indicated a significant positive association between PSBs and work engagement among newcomers. SCRs were found to mediate this relationship, suggesting that proactive behaviors help newcomers accumulate social capital, which enhances work engagement. Moreover, the study reveals that proactive personality and POS significantly moderate the relationship between PSBs and work engagement, with stronger positive associations observed among proactive individuals and those perceiving higher organizational support.

Practical implications

The study underscores the importance of encouraging proactive socialization behaviors and strengthening organizational support systems to foster newcomer engagement and facilitate successful assimilation.

Social implications

Understanding these dynamics can lead to the creation of more inclusive and supportive organizational environments, enhancing both individual well-being and organizational effectiveness.

Originality/value

This research offers new insights into the mechanisms through which PSBs impact work engagement, particularly through the accumulation of SCRs, and highlights the importance of proactive personality and organizational support as moderators.
The brand behind the curtain: decoupling, recoupling and moral conflict in social media
Authors: Gambetti Rossella C. , Kozinets Robert , Biraghi Silvia
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Social media platforms have matured into significant arenas for moral conflict and often intense confrontation between brands and their consumers. This research aims to scrutinize the strategic development of a fresh brand entity deliberately detached from its morally compromised corporate parent, intended to reshape public perceptions and elude regulatory scrutiny.

Design/methodology/approach

Promoted as a center for transformative dialogue and innovation, Mission Winnow by Philip Morris is a novel example of a brand creating an entirely separate brand entity to provide sponsorship, and to associate itself with new brand values. This study employs a multisited netnography through which the posts and conversations on Mission Winnow’s platform and website hub are captured and interpreted, as well as the branded content and the free flows of consumers’ conversations generated around the brand on social media.

Findings

Findings reveal a broad interchange of moral controversy, acceptance and opposition discourses on social media. When consumers’ acceptance narratives gain traction, consumers extend their support toward the new brand entity, employing strategies that echo moral rationalization and decoupling. When resistance narratives dominate, consumers consciously draw connections between the decoupled brand and the parent brand’s immoral behavior.

Originality/value

This study expands upon prior research into brand activism and consumers’ moral reasoning toward controversial brands, linking the notion of brand decoupling to brand activism discourse and introducing key underexplored aspects like the power of imagery, linguistic creativity and nostalgia. Moreover, it presents significant implications for a more nuanced understanding of the important interrelationship of brand decoupling and recoupling on social media.
Ruby Princess case study: a systems thinking analysis of COVID-19, cruise ships and Australia’s response
Authors: Cartwright Dimitra (Jenny) , McNulty Joseph
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The COVID-19 pandemic tested leadership in chaos and complexity and resulted in many lessons learnt in the process. One such opportunity was the cruise ship Ruby Princess “mishap” in Australia which resulted in the failure to quarantine the virus onboard the cruise ship thus allowing transmission into the Australian community. The purpose of this paper is to use the Ruby Princess as a case study and apply a systems thinking analysis to it.

Design/methodology/approach

Whilst many inquiries and commissions have documented the failings of the agencies or “systems” involved in the Ruby Princess, the Ruby Princess case study provides a suitable example for the application of systems thinking analysis. The paper proceeds by identifying the various agencies either directly or indirectly involved in the Ruby Princess disaster and groups them based on the system they represented (state; federal; international or cruise-based system). These systems were mapped providing a visual representation of the complexity of the landscape in which police and public safety agencies had to operate in to respond to the Ruby Princess.

Findings

Over 30 agencies were found to be either directly or indirectly involved in the Ruby Princess. Following the application of systems thinking analysis, it was clear that the various systems were operating in silos, thus failing to fully exploit the interconnections between and within all the systems which ultimately resulted in the Ruby Princess.

Practical implications

The results of this analysis have informed a series of recommendations for leadership development within similar contexts, including embracing a systems thinking approach.

Originality/value

Using the Ruby Princess as a case study, this article presents a novel approach through the application of systems thinking and how it can enhance a leader’s ability to navigate the current “new normal” operating environment. It highlights the importance of public safety leadership moving away from an insular systems focus towards more of a public sector partnership which is an imperative for police and other public safety agencies to navigate through times of complexity and chaos.
Dr. Meena and mission maternal health: building allies in the government hospital
Authors: Vyas Diti Pundrik , Bhakare Shilpa Hemant , Iyer Veena , Panchamia Jallavi
Published: October 2024

Research methodology

The case study is based on field data, including in-depth semi-structured interviews with the main protagonist and related stakeholders of a large government hospital in Western India. After informed consent, the interviews with the stakeholders were conducted, transcribed and analyzed verbatim. In addition, secondary data from policy reports, newspaper articles and government websites was used to create the case. Since the protagonist works in the government system, her identity and other identifying information are disguised to maintain confidentiality.

Case overview/synopsis

The case study investigates the leadership challenges in a healthcare facility/hospital in public health. It traces the evolution of Dr Meena Sharma (Dr Meena), a leader in the government hospital ecosystem facing challenges such as infrastructural deficiencies, manpower deficit, healthcare bureaucracy and heavy patient load. This first-generation medical practitioner who transitioned from a private practice to a governmental one juggles balancing her demanding clinical practice, administrative responsibilities and teaching in the government hospital with her family responsibilities setup. However, in the wake of the upcoming LaQshya – Labour Room Quality Improvement Initiative by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, she strives to put together and motivate her team to work toward improving the quality of care during delivery and the immediate postpartum period at her hospital. Various issues arise in the organizational leadership for a woman leader such as adopting appropriate leadership style and using appropriate motivation and communication strategies for optimal performance.

Complexity academic level

The case study is aimed at teaching/training a) departmental heads of public and private hospitals, b) health program managers at higher and middle-level leadership roles, c) health policymakers at various levels in the government and other organizations and d) graduate and postgraduate students of public health, hospital management/administration. In addition to this, it can also be used for general management programs to teach organizational behavior, communication and leadership courses.
Simulation-based design: minimizing energy consumption in residential buildings through optimal thermal insulation
Authors: Amani Nima
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to optimize the energy consumption of residential buildings in mild and humid climates. It investigates the use of thermal insulation to reduce thermal load through energy simulation analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

A residential building located in Rasht city, Iran (a mild and humid climate zone), is simulated using DesignBuilder software. Subsequently, the minimum thermal resistance for external walls and roof is analyzed along with its impact on building energy consumption and carbon emissions.

Findings

The simulation results indicated a 26.5% reduction in heat loss through the walls and a 14.2% reduction through the roof due to optimal thermal insulation. Furthermore, optimal insulation led to a 19.2% reduction in cooling system energy use, a 12% reduction in heating system energy use and a combined 15.3% reduction in total energy consumption for cooling and heating.

Originality/value

This optimization process leads to several benefits: reduced costs associated with thermal and cooling energy losses in buildings, improved building performance against atmospheric factors and, ultimately, a reduction in energy consumption across the building industry. This research can be valuable to various stakeholders, including the construction industry and building sector, municipalities and engineering systems, building owners and contractors and environmental organizations. By implementing these findings, they can improve the state of modern building insulation and achieve greater energy efficiency.
Oral, Vaginal, and Stool Microbial Signatures in Patients With Endometriosis as Potential Diagnostic Non‐Invasive Biomarkers: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Hicks Chloe , Leonardi Mathew , Chua Xin‐Yi , Mari‐Breedt Lisa , Espada Mercedes , El‐Omar Emad M. , Condous George , El‐Assaad Fatima
Published: October 2024

Objective

To identify a microbial signature for endometriosis for use as a diagnostic non‐invasive biomarker.

Design

Prospective cohort pilot study.

Setting

Nepean Hospital and UNSW Microbiome Research Centre, Australia.

Population

Sixty‐four age‐ and sex‐matched subjects (n = 19 healthy control (HC); n = 24 non‐endometriosis (N‐ENDO) and n = 21 confirmed endometriosis (ENDO)). All study participants, besides healthy controls, underwent laparoscopic surgical assessment for endometriosis, and histology was performed on excised lesions.

Methods

Oral, stool and, vaginal samples were self‐collected at a single time point for healthy controls, and preoperatively for patients undergoing laparoscopy. Samples underwent 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, followed by bioinformatics analysis.

Main Outcome Measures

Compositional differences between cohorts as identified by diversity analyses, and differentially abundant microbial taxa, as identified by LEfSE analysis.

Results

The composition of the oral (adjusted p = 0.003), and stool (adjusted p = 0.042) microbiota is different between the three cohorts. Differentially abundant taxa are present within each cohort as identified by LEfSE analysis. Particularly, Fusobacterium was enriched in the oral samples of patients with moderate/severe endometriosis.

Conclusions

Taxonomic and compositional differences were found between the microbiota in the mouth, gut and, vagina of patients with and without endometriosis and healthy controls. Fusobacterium was enriched in patients with moderate/severe endometriosis. Fusobacterium is noted as a key pathogen in periodontal disease, a common comorbidity in endometriosis. These findings suggest a role for the oral, stool and, vaginal microbiome in endometriosis, and present potential for microbial‐based treatments and the design of a diagnostic swab.
Discrepancy model to RtI: Gauging teacher preparedness for this shift in specific learning disability classification
Authors: Hogan Joseph A.
Published: October 2024

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (2004) allows alternate pathways for school districts to identify and classify students with a specific learning disability (SLD). Response to Intervention (RtI) is one of the frameworks schools can use when eliminating the use of the discrepancy model. The premise of RtI posits that tiered instruction can assist all students who are struggling through utilizing research‐based interventions. When these tiers of intervention services are exhausted with limited to no response to the intervention, a child can be classified under the SLD category. There are documented concerns with effective implementation of RtI frameworks. This qualitative exploratory study examined the perceptions of teachers in a graduate education program regarding the knowledge, usage and implementation of RtI to classify students with a SLD. Through thematic analysis, findings indicate a need for more training in districts, better preparation at the university level and more support in applying RtI in the classroom. Implications for practice and future research are discussed.
Amputation and limb‐sparing surgery in childhood sarcoma: Post‐operative imaging appearances and complications
Authors: Earley Joel , Roebuck Derek
Published: October 2024

Limb‐sparing surgery and amputation are common surgical techniques used to achieve local tumour control in childhood primary bone and soft tissue malignancy of the limbs. The interpretation of post‐operative limb imaging in these frequently complex cases is assisted by knowledge of the surgical techniques employed. This review discusses the rationale underpinning the most common surgical techniques used for these patients as well as their expected post‐operative imaging appearance and complications. Amputation, long bone resection, endoprosthetic reconstruction, allograft reconstruction, the use of fibular autografts, allograft‐prosthetic composite reconstruction and arthrodesis are discussed.
Ambiguity or specificity: The influence of merchant guild culture on managers' disclosure strategy
Authors: Zhang Tingting , Yin Haozhou , Zhuang Zixuan
Published: October 2024

Recent studies indicate that culture attributes significantly influence corporate behaviour. Building on this, our study explores how merchant guild culture (MGC) influences firms' voluntary disclosure practices, specifically through managerial disclosure strategies. Analysing data from Chinese listed firms between 2010 and 2022, we found that MGC significantly reduces the specificity of managerial responses at earnings communication conferences (ECCs). This suggests that firms influenced by MGC favour ambiguous communication, aligning with the value to mitigate competitive risks. Our findings deepen the understanding of cultural influences on corporate disclosure practices and extend literature on the role of informal institutions in corporate behaviours.
Immunoregulation and male reproductive function: Impacts and mechanistic insights into inflammation
Authors: Ma Yingjie , Yu Xinru , Liu Yi Fan , Song Bihan , Sun Zhengao , Zhao Shengtian
Published: October 2024

This paper investigates the complex relationship between the immune system and male reproductive processes, emphasizing how chronic inflammation can adversely affect male reproductive health. The immune system plays a dual role; it protects and regulates reproductive organs and spermatogenesis while maintaining reproductive health through immune privilege in the testes and the activities of various immune cells and cytokines. However, when chronic inflammation persists or intensifies, it can disrupt this balance, leading to immune attacks on reproductive tissues and resulting in infertility.This study provides a detailed analysis of how chronic inflammation can impair sperm production, sperm quality, and the secretion of gonadal hormones both directly and indirectly. It also delves into the critical roles of testicular immune privilege, various immune cells, and cytokines in sustaining reproductive health and examines the impacts of infections, autoimmune diseases, and environmental factors on male fertility.
Multidisciplinary protocol to reduce surgical readmissions in Australia: American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program
Authors: Pham Helen , Hitos Kerry , Pawaskar Rishan , Sinclair Jane‐Louise , Mathuthu Hazel , Nahm Christopher B , Pang Tony , Lam Vincent , Richardson Arthur
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Unplanned readmissions in general surgery are an important quality indicator of patient care and are associated with increased costs to healthcare services. This study aims to implement a multidisciplinary protocol in a single institution in a tertiary referral hospital to monitor and reduce unplanned readmission rates.

Methods

A prospective cohort study using an institution‐based protocol was conducted over an 18‐month period including patients undergoing a general surgical procedure. The protocol included: (i) implementation of a surgical readmissions nurse–patient liaison; (ii) access to a surgical walk‐in clinic; and (iii) early post‐discharge phone contact. Data included demographic details, index procedure, hospital length of stay (LOS), and whether contact between patient/nurse occurred upon discharge. The primary outcome was the cause and rate of 30‐day readmissions. Secondary outcomes were mortality, use of surgical clinic, emergency department presentations, and complications.

Results

After protocol implementation, 874 patients underwent a general surgical procedure, with 354 (49%) being male and an overall median age of 53.0 years (interquartile range: 36.0–67.0). The overall readmission rate was 5.6% (n = 49), with a median LOS after readmission of 4 days. Compared with historical pre‐protocol ACS‐NSQIP data, this reflects a 30% reduction compared to that of readmission rate of 7.9%, P = 0.03.

Conclusion

The multidisciplinary protocol was efficacious in significantly reducing unplanned readmissions. Continued audits and monitoring of factors associated with readmissions are required to help design targeted projects that may lead to improved outcomes, lower costs, increased patient satisfaction, and better efficiency within our healthcare system.
Influence of scleral thickness on photodynamic therapy outcomes in central serous chorioretinopathy
Authors: Forte Paolo , Cattaneo Jennifer , Cardillo Piccolino Felice , Arrigo Alessandro , Corazza Paolo , Musetti Donatella , Rosa Raffaella , Traverso Carlo Enrico , Fontana Vincenzo , Lupidi Marco , Eandi Chiara Maria , Nicolò Massimo
Published: October 2024

Purpose

To test the prognostic role of anterior scleral substantia propria (ASSP) thickness in predicting the 3‐month response after half‐dose photodynamic therapy (PDT) in central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) and to assess its clinical relevance of ASSP in different CSCR phenotypes.

Methods

A prospective, exploratory, multi‐centre cohort study conducted at IRCCS San Martino Hospital (Genoa, Italy) and Jules‐Gonin Eye Hospital (Lausanne, Switzerland). Demographic and clinical data, and optical coherence tomography (OCT) were collected at baseline and 3 months after PDT. Based on OCT images, we categorized CSCR phenotypes and collected clinically relevant imaging metrics. ASSP thickness was obtained from four different measurements using anterior segment (AS) OCT. Multivariable regression models were performed to evaluate the distribution of ASSP thicknesses among different CSCR phenotypes and to test the prognostic role of ASSP thickness in discriminating between PDT responders (complete subretinal fluid reabsorption) and partial responders.

Results

The study cohort comprised 109 Caucasian patients (82 males, 75.2%) with a total of 142 eyes: 84 eyes simple (59.1%) versus 58 eyes complex (40.9%) CSCR. A linear normal model confirmed a positive association between complex CSCR and higher ASSP thickness (β = 26.1, 95% CL = 12.1/40.1, p < 0.001), with a low prevalence of ciliochoroidal effusion loculations in AS‐OCT (1/142 eyes, 0.7%). ASSP thickening was positively linked to the presence of posterior cystoid retinal degeneration (PCRD; p = 0.002), indicating a potential role in the pathogenesis of severe CSCR phenotypes. In the subgroup of treated patients (61 eyes), 63.9% had a complete response after PDT. In these patients a logistic binary model highlighted a significantly higher risk of PDT non‐responsiveness (OR = 9.62, 95% CL = 2.44/37.9, p = 0.001) associated with a 60‐unit increase in ASSP thickness levels. By contrast, other anatomical parameters (i.e., body surface area, age, gender, axial length) showed no remarkable prognostic roles.

Conclusion

This research highlighted the association of ASSP thickening with complex CSCR phenotype in Caucasian patients and its role in predicting PDT efficacy. These findings enhance our comprehension of the anatomical risk factors in patients affected with CSCR and potentially guide a better understanding of non‐responsive cases to PDT treatment.
Single‐dose and steady‐state pharmacokinetics of clomipramine, yohimbine and clomipramine/yohimbine combination: A clinical drug–drug interaction study
Authors: Leutzendorff Amelie , al Jalali Valentin , Bauer Martin , Minichmayr Iris K. , Reiter Birgit , Duchek Michael Wölfl ‐ , Nussbaumer‐Pröll Alina , Weber Maria , Eberl Sabine , Spies Marie , Sarhan Maysa , Geilen Johannes , Walther Alexander , Drai Daniel , Zeitlinger Markus
Published: October 2024

Aims

Clomipramine (CLOMI) has shown effectiveness in treating premature ejaculation but is linked to erectile dysfunction and reduced libido. Yohimbine (YOH), by contrast, is effective in treating erectile dysfunction and may improve libido. Combining CLOMI and YOH could potentially leverage the benefits of both drugs. This study aimed to investigate the interactions between these drugs and to evaluate their safety profile.

Methods

A prospective, open‐labelled, single‐centre, pharmacokinetic (PK) drug–drug interaction study was performed in 15 healthy male subjects. Single‐dose and steady‐state PK were investigated using noncompartmental analysis after mono‐ and combination therapy of the 2 orally applied drugs. Plasma sampling was performed at baseline, 0.5 (YOH), 1, 1.5 (YOH), 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 12 and 24 h (CLOMI). Differences in the area under the curve after multiple dosing (MD) were determined using an equivalence boundary of 80–125%.

Results

The geometric mean ratio of the area under the curve up to 12 h for MD CLOMI (combination vs. monotherapy) was 112% (90% confidence interval: 104–120%), whereas for MD YOH this ratio was 137% (90% confidence interval: 112–168%). The study drugs were safe and well tolerated as mono‐ and combination therapy, with no major adverse events reported.

Conclusion

A PK assessment of clomipramine and yohimbine indicated a clinically significant drug–drug interaction for MD YOH in combination with CLOMI. This might be explained by competitive, CLOMI‐related inhibition of YOH metabolism, probably mediated by cytochrome P450 2D6. However, according to European Medicines Agency guidelines, the effect can be classified as interaction absent (<1,25 fold) or minor (>1.25–<2‐fold). Given the complimentary mechanisms of action and the favourable safety profiles, the findings pave the way for future efficacy studies.
Challenging Institutional Path Dependence Through Field Configuring Events: Exploring the Collective Institutional Entrepreneurship of the Sustainable Stock Exchanges Initiative
Authors: Loren Steve
Published: October 2024

Research Question/Issue

How can a global social movement, mobilized through a multi‐stakeholder initiative, promote the uptake of novel governance practices in distinct national institutional environments?

Research Findings/Insights

Using data from all 114 of the world's stock exchanges, covering over 99% of global stock market capitalization as of 2018, I find that exchanges in common‐law countries were more likely to become early partners of the Sustainable Stock Exchanges Initiative (SSEI) after its launch in 2012. However, exchanges based in civil‐law countries experienced a higher likelihood (i.e., risk) of adoption, as measured by the hazard ratio, particularly during a series of sustained field‐configuring events (FCEs) promoted by the SSEI. Over time, this increased hazard ratio indicated a rising likelihood of adoption for civil‐law‐based exchanges, eventually surpassing that of their common‐law counterparts.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

While institutional environments' path dependency can facilitate or hinder the adoption of governance practices, collective institutional entrepreneurship (CIE) can moderate this path dependency and reveal new information regarding the structural fit between promoted governance practices and their institutional environments.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

The insights provided by this study can help practitioners understand why some practices face resistance in specific institutional environments, while others are more readily accepted. These insights also help practitioners communicate the elements of governance practices that implicitly align with the institutional environments in which they are seeking adoption.
Microencapsulated carotenoids from orange sweet potato: Degradation kinetics and physicochemical properties
Authors: Rodríguez‐Mena Azucena , Ochoa‐Martínez Luz Araceli , González‐Herrera Silvia Marina , Rutiaga‐Quiñones Olga Miriam , González‐Laredo Rubén Francisco , Olmedilla‐Alonso Begoña
Published: October 2024

The use of natural pigments in the food industry has increased due to their health benefits. Carotenoids are natural pigments that carry the disadvantage of sensitivity to temperature, light and the presence of enzymes and oxygen. Microencapsulation technology is widely used to protect these compounds against degradation, preserving their physicochemical characteristics. The research objective was to obtain the kinetics of carotenoid degradation of a microencapsulated extract of orange‐fleshed sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) and to establish its physicochemical properties. The sweet potato extract was obtained using ultrasound and then microencapsulated by spray drying using maltodextrin as the wall material. The microencapsulate obtained was subjected to degradation kinetics at 30, 40 and 50°C. Carotenoid quantification analysis, colour, rehydration properties, antioxidant capacity, Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) and RAMAN spectroscopy and microstructural characterisation were performed on the microencapsulated carotenoids. From the kinetic analysis, the activation energy of the sweet potato extract was 16.31 kJ/mol while that of the microencapsulated sweet potato extract was 10.27 kJ/mol. Thus, it can be concluded that the microencapsulation process improved the stability of carotenoids subjected to thermal conditions. FTIR and RAMAN spectra confirmed the microencapsulation of the carotenoids. The microencapsulated powder showed a hygroscopicity of 0.22 g/100 g, wettability of 49 s and high solubility. The results obtained in the kinetics are a useful tool to predict losses during the process of heating the carotenoids from sweet potato, thus allowing improvement and selection of the products to which this powder can be applied, in either thermal or cold processes.
Economic policy uncertainty and institutional portfolio investment
Authors: Hao (Grace) Qing , Li Andi
Published: October 2024

This paper investigates the impact of economic policy uncertainty (EPU) on institutional investors’ holdings of common stocks. Using a large sample of quarterly institutional ownership data from 28 countries/markets between 2000 and 2021, we find that EPU negatively affects institutional investments in both domestic and overseas stock markets. Policy uncertainty also deters foreign institutions’ inbound investments. The adverse effect of policy uncertainty on crossborder institutional investment is particularly pronounced when the investment destination country does not share the same official language or legal origin as the investing country, consistent with the information asymmetry hypothesis. Additionally, firms with higher cash holdings and lower market‐to‐book ratios are less vulnerable to the withdrawal of investment by foreign institutional investors.
Fatty liver index and somatic composition in subjects receiving medical health checkup
Authors: Ushiro Kosuke , Matsui Masahiro , Fukuda Akira , Onishi Saori , Nishikawa Tomohiro , Asai Akira , Kim Soo Ki , Nishikawa Hiroki
Published: October 2024

Aims

To elucidate the relationship between fatty liver index (FLI) and somatic composition among health checkup recipients (4533 men and 4877 women).

Methods

Fat (F) index, fat‐free (FF) index, and fat mass to fat‐free mass (F‐FF) ratio was measured by bioimpedance analysis. Skeletal muscle mass (SMM) loss was defined as FF index <18 kg/m2 in men and FF index <15 kg/m2 in women. The impact of FLI on the somatic composition (i.e., F index, FF index, and F‐FF ratio) was retrospectively investigated.

Results

The median age in men and women was 54 and 52 years (p < 0.0001). The median body mass index in men and women was 23.4 and 21.1 kg/m2 (p < 0.0001). The prevalence of fatty liver on ultrasonography was 52.5% in men and 22.1% in women. The median FLI in men and women was 25.1 and 6.9 (p < 0.0001). Fatty liver index correlated significantly with F index (r > 0.5 in all analyses). In all analyses, the decreased SMM group had significantly lower FLI than the nondecreased SMM group. In receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis for the SMM decrease, in both genders, area under the ROCs of FLI were all over 0.80 (optimal cut‐off point: 19.7 in men and 8.4 in women). The FLI correlated significantly with F‐FF ratio (r > 0.5 in all analyses).

Conclusion

The FLI can be a good indicator of not only fat mass but also FF mass and body composition balance in health checkup subjects. The FLI may not be just a marker of hepatic steatosis.
Near‐Infrared Spectroscopy‐Based Chilled Fresh Lamb Quality Detection Using Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Li Xinxing , Wei Changhui , Liang Buwen
Published: October 2024

Traditionally methods for assessing mutton quality rely on physical and chemical examination analyses that necessitate precise experimental environment conditions and specialized knowledge, often resulting in the compromise of the sample's structural integrity. To address these challenges, this study explores the application of near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIR) as a non‐destructive alternative for mutton quality evaluation, leveraging its operational simplicity, rapid analysis capabilities, and minimal requirement for technical expertise. Among various spectral data preprocessing techniques evaluated, multiple scattering correction (MSC) was found to significantly enhance model detection performance. Furthermore, principal component analysis (PCA) combined with the Mahalanobis Distance method was utilized for outlier identification. Finally, a mutton freshness detection model is constructed based on stacking ensemble learning, yielding an impressive accuracy rate of 0.976, outperforming other advanced approaches. In conclusion, our findings establish a robust theoretical framework for the rapid and non‐destructive assessment of meat freshness, contributing to advancements in meat quality detection.
Societal Discrimination, Vigilance, and Patient‐Provider Relationships Among Perinatal Women: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Tierney Katherine I. , Wagenfeld‐Heintz Ellen , Bane Cynthia , Linares Silvia , Sandberg Megan , Moss Drew , Duerst Abby , Walters Claudia , Bautista Terra , Gumbleton Lynette , Kothari Catherine L.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

In the United States, maternal mortality is high and patterned by race and socioeconomic status (SES). Patient‐provider relationships and societal discrimination have been separately associated with poor maternal outcomes, but it is not clear how such mechanisms may be interrelated. Thus, the present study investigates how societal experiences of discrimination are associated with and manifest in patient‐provider relationship quality among perinatal women.

Methods

The study uses a mixed methods design with an explanatory‐sequential approach. First, a path analysis using structural equation modeling of a cross‐sectional representative survey of 244 perinatal women in Kalamazoo County, Michigan, was conducted. Second, a thematic qualitative analysis was conducted of focus groups composed of survey participants (n = 34).

Results

In the quantitative analyses, race and SES were associated with experiences of societal discrimination in the expected directions (race: b, 1.87; SE, 0.58; P = .001; SES: b, 2.18; SE, 0.60; P < .001), discrimination positively predicted vigilant behaviors (b, 0.81; SE, 0.15; P < .001), and more vigilant behaviors predicted worse patient‐provider relationship quality (b, 0.18; SE, 0.07; P < .001). In the qualitative findings, we found detailed accounts linking provider discrimination, vigilance, and patient‐provider relationships among focus groups composed of only women of color (n = 9).

Discussion

Overall, the quantitative analyses find support for the conceptual model showing race and SES are associated with societal discrimination, which is associated with vigilant behaviors and, in turn, quality of patient‐provider relationships. The qualitative analyses provide preliminary evidence for how these pathways manifest in care settings and demonstrate the importance of establishing trust in patient‐provider relationships, especially among women of color.
Effectiveness of Peer Mentoring for the Prevention of Dependency: A Pilot Study in a Rural Setting
Authors: Mateos‐González Laura , Menéndez‐Espina Sara , Llosa José Antonio , Oliveros Beatriz , Agulló‐Tomás Esteban , Jiménez‐Arberas Estíbaliz
Published: October 2024

Aim

To analyse the effectiveness of an active ageing intervention modality through peer mentoring.

Design

A quasi‐experimental research study is carried out through three groups, one control (educational workshops on active ageing given by professionals) and two experimental (workshops given by peers with digital or face‐to‐face exposure).

Methods

All groups share duration (7 weeks) and content, modifying the route of exposure. The effectiveness of the model is measured through the variables of physical health, mental health and social support. Loneliness and the need for care are also controlled for.

Results

The total sample consists of n = 209 people aged over 60 living in a rural context, of which n = 12 form the volunteer/mentor group. Active ageing interventions show an improvement in the perception of physical and mental health among people in need of some form of care, with all three modalities being equally effective. The impact on social support is analysed by controlling for the loneliness and social participation variable; in these cases, the face‐to‐face experimental group of peers is more effective than the others.

Conclusions

The peer‐to‐peer methodology is as effective as the traditional methodology with a practitioner in maintaining and improving health perception, and the face‐to‐face methodology with peers is more useful in fostering social support among people experiencing loneliness.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Peer mentoring is presented as a good strategy to improve social support for older people and to combat loneliness.

Impact

To address the prevention of dependency through the promotion of active ageing. Peer mentoring is confirmed to have a significant impact on social support and could be a socio‐educational tool applicable to older people experiencing loneliness.

Reporting Method

This study has adhered to JBI guidelines. JBI critical appraisal checklist for quasi‐experimental studies has been used.

Patient or Public Contribution

Volunteer mentors contributed to the design and delivery of the workshops.
Reduced prefrontal activation during cognitive control under emotional interference in chronic insomnia disorder
Authors: Kim Sun‐Young , Lee Kyung Hwa , Jeon Jeong Eun , Lee Ha Young , You Jin Hyeok , Shin Jiyoon , Seo Min Cheol , Seo Won Woo , Lee Yu Jin
Published: October 2024

This study investigated the altered neural activation underlying cognitive control under emotional and sleep‐related interference conditions and its role in subjective sleep disturbance in patients with chronic insomnia disorder. In total, 48 patients with chronic insomnia disorder, and 48 age‐, sex‐ and body mass index‐matched controls were included in this study. They completed self‐reported questionnaires to assess subjective sleep and emotional distress. A sleep diary was used to evaluate subjective sleep parameters. All participants performed the emotional Stroop task (three blocks each of negative emotional, sleep‐related, and neutral words) during functional magnetic resonance imaging assessments. We compared brain activation during the emotional Stroop task between the two groups. We also analysed the correlations between altered neural activation and sleep variables. Less neural activation was detected in the right anterior prefrontal cortex of patients with chronic insomnia disorder than in controls when performing the emotional Stroop task with negative emotional words. The decrease in neural activation was negatively correlated with scores on Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Insomnia Severity Index, and Dysfunctional Beliefs and Attitudes about Sleep Scale. In contrast, they were positively correlated with subjective total sleep time and sleep efficiency as reported in sleep diaries. A decrease in right anterior prefrontal cortex activity under the negative emotional words condition of the emotional Stroop task in patients with chronic insomnia disorder suggests a failure of top‐down inhibition of negative emotional stimuli. This failure induces disinhibition of cognitive hyperarousal, manifested as rumination or intrusive worries, and potentially causing subjective sleep disturbances.
Meaning, purpose, and narrative
Authors: Zhao Michael
Published: October 2024

According to many philosophers, “the meaning of life” refers to our cosmic purpose, the activity that we were created by God or a purposive universe to perform. If there is no God or teleology, there is no such thing as the meaning of life. But this need not be the last word on the matter. In this paper, I ask what the benefits provided by a cosmic purpose are, and go on to argue that thinking of our lives in a particular way—in terms of a unified life narrative—can supply us with many of those benefits. We might lose little if there is no such thing as the meaning of life, since there is still something that can provide much of what is valuable about it.
Genetic Variation and QTL Analysis of Crude Fibre and Quality Traits in the Doubled Haploid Winter Oilseed Rape (Brassica napus L.) Population R19 x Lord
Authors: Holzenkamp Karin , Möllers Christian
Published: October 2024

The oil‐extracted meal of oilseed rape is used for feeding livestock and is a potential source of vegetable protein for human consumption. Its protein quality is limited by glucosinolates, phenolic compounds, phytates and crude fibres. The reduction of cellulose, hemicellulose and indigestible lignin in black‐seeded oilseed rape may enhance the protein content, colour, sensory quality and digestibility. The objective of this study was to analyse the inheritance of seed fibre components in relation to oil, protein and other quality traits in a DH population derived from the cross of low lignin lines R19 and cv. Lord. The population of 143 lines was tested in field experiments in six environments and was genotyped with Illumina 15K Brassica SNP chip. QTL and candidate genes were identified using the high‐quality long‐read reference genome of Express 617. Major QTL for fibre components were identified on chromosomes C01 and C03 with opposite additive and epistatic effects. Fibre QTL colocated with each other and QTL for seed colour, oil and protein. Epistatic effects were identified, which resulted in a further decrease of fibre content.