bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of organisational innovation and innovation in general on eco-innovation in European companies
Authors: Rodríguez-Rebés Laura , Navío-Marco Julio , Ibar-Alonso Raquel
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This research focuses on establishing relationships between eco-innovation and organisational innovation and innovation in general to characterise organisational eco-innovation in European Union companies. We also aim to investigate the forms of innovations that eco-innovative companies use as well as the factors or determinants of eco-innovation in the corporate environment that impel the use of organisational innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

We use the estimation of different binary logistic regression models with maximum likelihood applied to a sample obtained from the Eurostat's Community Innovation Survey 2014 database as a starting point.

Findings

The results suggest that the type of organisational innovation most closely related to eco-innovation is found in work responsibility and decision-making methods. Some less frequently studied significant factors are highlighted, such as training or aspects related to intellectual capital and knowledge management, since significant indications of the importance and acquisition of existing know-how have appeared, in contrast to internal knowledge generation.

Originality/value

The study seeks to observe what specific quantitative drivers (external or internal) are used for organisational eco-innovation, as a specific subtype of eco-innovation. This can improve our understanding of the ways in which organisational innovation can be used by corporations to provide environmental benefits. The academic literature provides information on the drivers and determinants for both organisational innovation and eco-innovation separately, but we believe this article offers a new approach by looking at the specific eco-innovation drivers achieved through organisational innovation.
Decomposition and changes in socio-economic inequalities in mental health in Barcelona between 2006 and 2016
Authors: Bartoll-Roca Xavier , Gotsens Mercè , Palència Laia
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This study aims, firstly, to analyse the contribution of socio-economic determinants to mental health (MH) inequalities before the economic crisis, in 2006, and again in a year during recovery, 2016, and secondly, to analyse the changes in these contributions between the two points in time in Barcelona city.

Design/methodology/approach

The concentration index (CI) was calculated for MH inequalities for the population aged 16 or older using the Barcelona Health Surveys for 2006 and 2016. MH was measured with the 12-item General Health Questionnaire. The CI was broken down for each year and gender based on a set of socio-economic determinants plus social support and the presence of chronic diseases. The contribution of each factor to variation in MH inequality between the two points in time was analysed with Oaxaca decomposition.

Findings

Income inequalities in MH increased for men and women (a CI from −0.06 in 2006 to around −0.16 in 2016). Employment status and social class are the main contributors to MH inequalities (more than 50%), except for women in 2006 that is chronic disease. The main contribution to increases in MH inequality between 2006 and 2016 was due to unemployment (26.5% men, 23.8% women), being a student (22.8% men, 20.7% women), homemaker in women (30.7%) and men in the manual class (31.6%).

Originality/value

MH inequalities have been amplified between the two years among the economically vulnerable population or for those who are out of the labour market with unexpected changes for women.
(Un)earthly governance: beyond functional frameworks to flourishing spacescapes
Authors: Mouat Clare M. , Techera Erika Jane Edith , Notebaert Lies , Blake Meredith , Barker Renae
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Humanity has a weakness in how we approach the “challenge” of using outer space. This paper aims to show how the global and national frameworks that address our planetary activities and crises are inadequate for the opportunities and challenges of life in outer space.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors draw on multidisciplinary perspectives to refine an organising governance framework that better showcases the challenges and pathways needed for living and thriving in space-age. The authors prioritise two key pillars and overview the practical and social implications that space-age humanity must address.

Findings

Social sciences and humanities are vital to problematising post-war colonial legacies of governance by distinguishing the unique and overlooked challenges for thriving and working offworld and identifying progressive research agendas.

Research limitations/implications

The highlighted agenda has implications for collaborative research institutes and project design. As the vital basis for continuous learning, university-based research institutes span bodies of knowledge, experience, convention and imagination that can support vibrant and overdue debate on good governance that is out of this world.

Practical implications

This expansive approach has practical implications for the decision-making processes and subjects of spacescape, from reconciling the space commons with prospecting and human occupation to potential governance regimes that capitalise on the zeal for moving beyond merely “existing” off-world.

Social implications

Examining the governance deficit as we pursue developing spacescape frontiers is an enriching (not reductionist) agenda that deliberately troubles the existing and emerging regime for governing our scientific and imagined off-world society.

Originality/value

This framework appeals to humanity’s highest evolution in co-producing a fair and flourishing off-world governance framework (beyond replicating planetary regimes).
Brand avatars: impact of social interaction on consumer–brand relationships
Authors: Foster Jamye K. , McLelland Melinda A. , Wallace Lacey K.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Over the past two decades, technology-facilitated communication between brand and consumer has become common. One way in which technology can be used to build brand relationships in the online environment is by using brand avatars. This study considers social aspects of brand avatar communication, with the aim of determining if including an element of “socialness” adds to the impact of the brand avatar.

Design/methodology/approach

Specifically, the authors test three outcome variables core to building strong consumer relationships through experimental design comparing an avatar's communication style (transactional vs social) while considering the potential covariate of motivational orientation.

Findings

Overall, multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) results indicate that social functions provided by the brand avatar are more likely to facilitate the consumer–brand relationship (CBR) process than transactional functions. This study provides managerial support for using an avatar with social communication capabilities.

Originality/value

As social interaction becomes more expected by consumers in the current media landscape, understanding how to meet those demands on a large scale, through brand avatars, is valuable.
Urban public space regeneration in Tokyo's urban center by urban renaissance
Authors: Yang Chenghao , Liu Tongtong
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the process and result of urban public space regeneration (UPSR) plans in Tokyo's urban center under the guidance of Urban Renaissance. It aims to clarify why public space has a close relationship with urbanization and urban regeneration, and why compact and diverse urban public spaces can promote public life.

Design/methodology/approach

Firstly, this paper investigated urbanization and urban renaissance in Tokyo, and analyzed the motivation for implementing UPSR from the perspective of urban policy. By on-the-spot investigations and literature materials, this paper introduced urban regeneration measures of Roppongi Hills to Toranomon Hills, and then summarized the similarities and differences between Roppongi Hills and Toranomon Hills by studying them on the basis of contrast.

Findings

UPSR had been an important component of the re-urbanization process and an essential method of strengthening urban vitality. Moreover, it promotes the development of polycentric urban structure and the return of population to urban center. First, the UPSR pattern integrating vertical space and street space can form a net-shaped urban life circle. Second, more diversified public activities can serve more varied groups of people.

Originality/value

This paper systematically analyzes the development reasons and process of UPSR project in Tokyo from both internal and external factors, and summarizes the future development direction of public space through the comparison of the two projects, and provides a reference for urban public space renewal in the future.
Study on the sensitivity enhancement of fiber SPR sensor by gold nanorods
Authors: Wang Rui , Liu Chunlan , Wei Yong , Su Yudong
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to study the sensitivity enhancement effect of the gold nanorod on fiber surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensor. It proposes modeling the sensing effects of fiber SPR sensor decorated with metal nanoparticles. By using simulation and experiment, the sensitivity enhancement effect of the gold nanorod was studied and demonstrated.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper opted for an exploratory study using simulation approach of finite-difference time-domain. Specifically, the effect of ratios and aspect ratios of gold nanorod on sensing performance are investigated theoretically. Based on the mathematical models, the validation experiments by using the gold nanorod with the aspect ratios of 5.1 were done to verify the sensitivity enhancement effect of the gold nanorod.

Findings

In conclusion, it is evident that with the increases of the aspect ratios, the sensing sensitivity of the refractive index increases first, then gradually stabilizes or decreases. After parameter optimization, the ratios and aspect ratios of gold nanorod are chosen to be 8 nm and 12.5, respectively, which makes the optimal refractive index sensitivity of 4465.53 nm/RIU be realized. In addition, the validation experiments by using the gold nanorod with the aspect ratios of 5.1 verify the sensitivity enhancement effect of the gold nanorods.

Originality/value

This paper proposes and demonstrates a new method for the sensitivity enhancement of fiber SPR sensor. After parameter optimization, the maximum sensitivity of 4465.53 nm/RIU was achieved by using 8 nm gold nanorods with the aspect ratios of 12.5. To verify the sensitivity enhancement of the gold nanorods, the authors also did the validation experiments. The testing results indicated that after the decoration of the gold nanorods, the sensitivity of the sensing probe increases from 2190.57 nm/RIU to 2693.24 nm/RIU, which demonstrates the sensitivity enhancement effect of the gold nanorods.
The role of 3S in big data quality: a perspective on operational performance indicators using an integrated approach
Authors: Verma Pratima , Kumar Vimal , Mittal Ankesh , Rathore Bhawana , Jha Ajay , Rahman Muhammad Sabbir
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This study aims to provide insight into the operational factors of big data. The operational indicators/factors are categorized into three functional parts, namely synthesis, speed and significance. Based on these factors, the organization enhances its big data analytics (BDA) performance followed by the selection of data quality dimensions to any organization's success.

Design/methodology/approach

A fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (AHP) based research methodology has been proposed and utilized to assign the criterion weights and to prioritize the identified speed, synthesis and significance (3S) indicators. Further, the PROMETHEE (Preference Ranking Organization METHod for Enrichment of Evaluations) technique has been used to measure the data quality dimensions considering 3S as criteria.

Findings

The effective indicators are identified from the past literature and the model confirmed with industry experts to measure these indicators. The results of this fuzzy AHP model show that the synthesis is recognized as the top positioned and most significant indicator followed by speed and significance are developed as the next level. These operational indicators contribute toward BDA and explore with their sub-categories' priority.

Research limitations/implications

The outcomes of this study will facilitate the businesses that are contemplating this technology as a breakthrough, but it is both a challenge and opportunity for developers and experts. Big data has many risks and challenges related to economic, social, operational and political performance. The understanding of data quality dimensions provides insightful guidance to forecast accurate demand, solve a complex problem and make collaboration in supply chain management performance.

Originality/value

Big data is one of the most popular technology concepts in the market today. People live in a world where every facet of life increasingly depends on big data and data science. This study creates awareness about the role of 3S encountered during big data quality by prioritizing using fuzzy AHP and PROMETHEE.
Tourist gaze through computer vision: where, what, how and why?
Authors: Zhang Kun , Qiu Hanqin , Wang Jingyue , Li Chunlin , Zhang Jinyi , Chen Dora Dongzhi
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to answer the following four research questions: Where do tourists gaze at the destination? What do tourists gaze at the destination? How do tourists gaze differently? Why do tourists gaze differently referring to relevant theory?

Design/methodology/approach

With a computer vision approach, this study illustrated a series of maps that reflect where and what do tourists gaze at and compared the differences in the visual perceptions among Asian, European and North American tourists in Hong Kong.

Findings

The findings confirm that the “tourist gaze” is influenced by geographical and cultural conditions. The conclusions provided three types of implementations for destination management strategies and advocated a high engagement with computer vision technology.

Originality/value

In theory, this study proves that the “tourist gaze” is influenced by geographical and cultural conditions. The study’s methodological contribution lies in applying advanced technology of visual content analysis for big data relevant to the issue of the tourist gaze. Practically, the finding that has not been achieved via previous questionnaire surveys will serve as a reference for tourism recommendations and precision marketing. In addition, its practical contribution is that it offers a means by which to explore tourists’ perceptions of destinations and understand the attractiveness of destinations to tourists.
Ferrochrome slag aggregate: physical-chemical characteristics and potential use in lightly cemented road bases
Authors: Kambole Chewe , Paige-Green Phil , Kupolati Williams Kehinde , Ndambuki Julius Musyoka
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Most developing countries simply dump ferrochrome slag as waste which occupies huge areas of useful land. The purpose of this study is to underscore the significance of reusing ferrochrome slag as a sustainable and eco-friendly road aggregate material, with the added benefits of preventing possible environmental pollution and promoting sustainable mining of non-renewable construction materials.

Design/methodology/approach

Physical-mechanical characteristics were investigated using various South African National Standards test procedures. Chemical and mineralogical characteristics were evaluated using the X-ray fluorescence and the X-ray diffraction techniques, respectively. The toxicity characteristic leaching procedure test was used to evaluate the slag’s environmental suitability. Using two cement types, cement proportions of 1%, 2% and 3% of the slag aggregate weight mixed with optimum moisture content of the non-treated compacted slag were used to make lightly cemented ferrochrome slag aggregate (LCFSA) composites, subsequently tested for compressive strength.

Findings

Ferrochrome slag aggregates have excellent physical-mechanical characteristics that conform to international specifications for use in road base construction. The slag can be classified as non-hazardous solid waste. However, in acidic environments, some toxic elements may leach from the slag and pollute the environment. Optimum cement contents of 2.3% (CEM II) and 2.6% (CEM VB) can be mixed with the slag to produce LCFSA for road bases.

Originality/value

No research was found in literature on the use of LCFSA in road bases. This research, therefore, presents new data on mix design and strength properties of LCFSA as well as some physical-chemical characteristics of coarse ferrochrome slag aggregate.
Brexit as Britain in Decline and its Crises (Revisited)
Authors: MacLeavy Julie , Jones Martin
Published: August 2021

This article revisits Andrew Gamble's book, Britain in Decline, and also revisits the geographies of state crisis. Drawing on the substantial archives of state theory, the article explores how Brexit emerged as a moment of crisis following the relative decline of the economy and the reshaping of the welfare state. Discussions of Brexit and the uneven geographies of advanced capitalism inevitably raise questions about the central tension between the free market and strong state within both political discourse and political activity. In considering these, the article extends Gamble's writing on the social, economic and political struggles within the Thatcherite project and explores the role of uneven development in perpetuating and transforming the contradictions of advanced capitalism. This allows for a more geographical reading of contradictions inside the state‐territory, which augments Gamble's understanding of the external challenges to Britain's postwar settlement.
Fatal penetrating abdominal injury by a metallic projectile
Authors: Mittal Chaitanya , Vempalli Seshagiri Raju , Kanchan Tanuj , Shekhawat Raghvendra Singh
Published: August 2021

Penetrating abdominal injury is often a life‐threatening condition, which is mainly associated with inflicted injuries. Fatal self‐inflicted sharp force abdominal injuries too have been reported in the literature. Inadvertent penetrating abdominal injuries are a rarity and are caused by sharp objects of low‐velocity and often nonmissile‐type. A 27‐year‐old male factory worker was brought dead to the emergency department with an alleged history of sustaining abdominal injury by a sharp metal projectile while working on a metal cutting grinder. Autopsy observations were consistent with the history of inadvertent penetrating injury. Our case reports a fatal missile‐type inadvertent sharp force trauma over the abdomen with intestinal perforation, a relatively uncommon scenario in occupational/workplace settings. The present case report describes the significance of the death scene visit and corroborating the medical findings with investigating agencies. This case further emphasizes on the need for adopting proper safety measures at the workplace.
Existing fluid responsiveness studies using the mini‐fluid challenge may be misleading: Methodological considerations and simulations
Authors: Enevoldsen Johannes , Scheeren Thomas W. L. , Berg Jonas M. , Vistisen Simon T.
Published: August 2021

Background

The mini‐fluid challenge (MFC) is a clinical concept of predicting fluid responsiveness by rapidly infusing a small amount of intravenous fluids, typically 100 ml, and systematically assessing its haemodynamic effect. The MFC method is meant to predict if a patient will respond to a subsequent, larger fluid challenge, typically another 400 ml, with a significant increase in stroke volume.

Methods

We critically evaluated the general methodology of MFC studies, with statistical considerations, secondary analysis of an existing study and simulations.

Results

Secondary analysis of an existing study showed that the MFC could predict the total fluid response (MFC + 400 ml) with an area under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUROC) of 0.92, but that the prediction was worse than random for the response to the remaining 400 ml (AUROC = 0.33). In a null simulation with no response to both the MFC and the subsequent fluid challenge, the commonly used analysis could predict fluid responsiveness with an AUROC of 0.73.

Conclusion

Many existing MFC studies are likely overestimating the classification accuracy of the MFC. This should be considered before adopting the MFC into clinical practice. A better study design includes a second, independent measurement of stroke volume after the MFC. This measurement serves as reference for the response to the subsequent fluid challenge.
Harm perceptions of nicotine‐containing products and associated sources of information in UK adults with and without mental ill health: A cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Perman‐Howe Parvati R. , Horton Marie , Robson Deborah , McDermott Máirtín S. , McNeill Ann , Brose Leonie S.
Published: August 2021

Background and Aims

People with mental ill health are more likely to smoke and experience smoking‐related harm than those without. Switching from combustible tobacco to lower‐risk nicotine‐containing products may be of benefit; however, misperceptions of harm may prevent their use. We aimed to assess, among adults with and without mental ill health, (1) perceptions of harm from nicotine and relative harm and addictiveness of different nicotine‐containing products and (2) sources of information associated with harm perceptions.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting and Participants

On‐line survey of adults (n = 3400) who smoke cigarettes and/or use e‐cigarettes, or have recently stopped, in the United Kingdom.

Measurements

Outcomes: harm perceptions of nicotine; relative perceived harm and addictiveness of different nicotine‐containing products; sources of information for harm perceptions of nicotine, cigarette smoking and e‐cigarettes. Demographics: sex, age, education, ethnic group and region. Other measures: self‐reported smoking, vaping and mental health status. Analyses: frequencies and logistic regressions adjusting for demographic/other measures.

Findings

Among those with serious mental distress (versus no/low mental distress): 9.6% [13.9%, adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 0.69, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.50–0.97] correctly identified that none/a very small amount of the health risks of smoking cigarettes come from nicotine; 41.7% (53.5%, aOR = 0.67, 95% CI = 0.54–0.84) perceived e‐cigarettes and 53.2% (70.3%, aOR = 0.62, 95% CI = 0.50–0.77) perceived nicotine replacement therapy to be less harmful than cigarettes; and 42.1% (51.3%, aOR = 0.77, 95% CI = 0.62–0.95) perceived e‐cigarettes as being less likely than cigarettes to cause cancer, 35.4% (45.5%, aOR = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.57–0.88) heart attacks and 34.9% (42.3%, aOR = 0.80, 95% CI = 0.64–0.99) lung problems. The most popular sources of information for cigarette smoking, e‐cigarettes and nicotine were scientific experts’ opinions and media reports, with little variation by mental distress.

Conclusions

Among adults with a history of tobacco and/or e‐cigarette use, those with serious mental distress appear to have less accurate harm perceptions of nicotine and nicotine‐containing products than those with no/low distress, despite reporting similar sources of information.
Effect of using elastic‐pressure socks in spinal surgery patients on orthostatic hypotension in the first mobilization
Authors: Öztürk Gülay , Yılmaz Emel , Aydın Murat , Baydur Hakan
Published: August 2021

Background

Orthostatic hypotension (OH) is a common early postoperative finding in patients who undergo major surgery, and it might delay early mobilization, which is the main building block of modern perioperative care programs. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of using thigh‐length elastic pressure socks in patients who undergo spinal surgery in development of OH at first mobilization after surgery.

Methods

The study was a randomized‐controlled intervention study. A total of 70 patients who underwent spinal surgery were included in the study. The patients were allocated randomly to the intervention group (n = 35) who used thigh‐length elastic pressure socks and the control group (n = 35) which received no intervention other than routine nursing care.

Results

It was found in the study that 2.9% of the patients in the intervention group developed OH during the first mobilization after the surgery, and 48.6% of the patients in the control group developed OH at first mobilization. The patients in the intervention group were found to have the risk ratio (RR): 0.06 times less probability of developing OH than the patients in the control group (95% confidence interval [CI]:0.01–0.42). The OH symptoms were lower in the patients in the intervention group.

Conclusion

It was found as a result of the study that using thigh‐length elastic pressure socks in spinal surgery patients reduced OH development and symptoms at first mobilization after the surgery.
Sex differences in non‐strangulated postoperative adhesive small bowel obstruction: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Yamamoto Yuta , Miyagawa Yusuke , Kitazawa Masato , Koyama Makoto , Nakamura Satoshi , Tokumaru Shigeo , Muranaka Futoshi , Soejima Yuji
Published: August 2021

Background

Adhesive small bowel obstruction (ASBO) is one of the major causes of postoperative morbidity. Non‐surgical management is generally applied to non‐strangulated ASBO. Several factors have been reported to affect the response to non‐surgical management in patients with ASBO. However, the association between sex differences and non‐strangulated ASBO remains unclear. This study aimed to elucidate the effect of sex differences in non‐strangulated postoperative ASBO.

Methods

We divided 139 patients with a first episode of non‐strangulated postoperative ASBO into two groups: male group (n = 83) and female group (n = 56). Clinical features and prognosis were compared between the two groups.

Results

Female patients had lower proportions of oesophageal/gastric malignancies (P = 0.044) and colorectal malignancies (P = 0.030) and a higher proportion of uterine/ovarian malignancies (P < 0.001) than male patients did. More female patients required surgical management than male patients (P = 0.003) did. Hospital length of stay (LOS) was longer (P = 0.046) in the female group than in the male group. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that the female sex was associated with an increased risk of the need for surgical management (odds ratio 5.318, P = 0.006). Cox proportional hazards regression analysis revealed that the female sex was positively associated with increased LOS (hazard ratio 0.687, P = 0.045).

Conclusion

Female sex was associated with failure of non‐surgical management and increased LOS in patients with non‐strangulated postoperative ASBO.
The risk for developing vision‐threatening retinopathy after cataract surgery in diabetic patients depends on the postoperative follow‐up time
Authors: Bek Toke , Tilma Kathrine , la Cour Morten
Published: August 2021

Purpose

To identify parameters that can predict the postoperative risk for progression of retinopathy to a vision‐threatening stage after cataract surgery. This may optimize the timing of surgery and the postoperative follow‐up strategy in diabetic patients.

Methods

Multi‐state survival analysis with death as competing risk was used to investigate how year of onset and age of onset of diabetes, gender, body mass index, HbA1c and blood pressure had affected the risk for developing diabetic macular oedema (DME) and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) among 2540 right eyes from 2797 diabetic patients operated for cataract on one or both eyes during 25 years until July 1. 2019.

Results

Cataract surgery had been performed in 98.8% of patients reaching 90 years of age. The risk for developing both DME and PDR was increased by cataract surgery. The risk was highest during the first postoperative years and increased by pre‐operative variability in HbA1c. The risk after more than 20 years postoperatively increased by increased cumulative HbA1c pre‐operatively. The other studied risk factors contributed differently to the development of the two complications.

Conclusions

Decision models for the timing of cataract surgery in diabetic patients should consider that the risk for developing vision‐threatening retinopathy depends on follow‐up time. Differences in the risk profiles for developing DME and PDR after cataract surgery support that the two complications should be regarded as separate late complications.
Effects of message framing on recruiting Rh‐D‐negative blood donors in an emergency situation: Two randomized trials
Authors: Ou‐Yang Jian , Huang Xiao‐Ying , Fu Yong‐shui , Dai Lin , Zhong Hui‐bin , Jiang Jin , Liang Hua‐qin
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Prospect theory categorizes message framing according to whether it emphasizes a possible loss or a possible gain. Promotions of blood donation worldwide mainly focus on gain‐framed appeal. The objective of the current study is to examine the effects of message framing on recruiting Rh‐D‐negative blood donors (RDNBDs) in an emergency situation.

Design

Two randomized trials.

Methods

In Study 1, 813 group O and 500 group B RDNBDs were randomly assigned to three groups receiving three different recruitment text messages: (1) gain‐framed, (2) loss‐framed, and (3) information messages. In addition, 613 group A and 148 group AB RDNBDs were marked as (4) no message group. In Study 2, 758 RDNBDs were randomly provided one of two versions of materials focusing on either the possible survival (gain‐framed) or the death (loss‐framed) of a Rh‐D‐negative patient needed a blood transfusion. These participants then completed a questionnaire to examine the possible mechanisms underlying the observed effects.

Results

Compared to not receiving any message, significantly more RDNBDs re‐donated within 14 days after they received a loss‐framed message. Study 2 found that RDNBDs who read the loss‐framed material expressed more willingness to donate immediately than those who read the gain‐framed material. RDNBDs with high‐risk perception expressed a greater blood donation intention in the loss‐framed group. The loss‐framed message made participants perceive others' needs more strongly, which generated more empathy, and thus increased blood donation intention.

Conclusions

The results suggested that recruiting RDNBDs using a loss‐framed message is suitable under an emergency.
Quine's argument “from above”
Authors: Severo Rogério P. , Schüler Guilherme Gräf
Published: August 2021

Up until the early 1970s, Quine argued that the underdetermination of theories by observations is a reason for the indeterminacy of translation. This is the so‐called argument “from above,” which is still today often thought of as Quine's main reason for the thesis. His 1975 analysis of underdetermination, however, rendered that argument invalid. This paper explains why.
Modelling soil hydraulic properties with an improved pore‐solid fractal (PSF) model through image analysis
Authors: Sun Xiaoqin , She Dongli , Wang Hongde , Fei Yuanhang , Gao Lei
Published: August 2021

Soil hydraulic properties are important for studying Earth science. The pore‐solid fractal (PSF) model, combined with a critical path analysis from percolation theory, seems to be more promising in the modelling of soil hydraulic properties. The accuracy of the PSF model depends on the accurate acquisition of fractal dimensions, which requires the combination of micro‐CT scanning and image analysis technology. In addition, there is a changepoint in soil water movement due to the coexistence of soil micro‐ and macromorphology. Determining the changepoint and using different fractal dimensions to predict hydraulic properties on different sides of the changepoint can further improve the accuracy of the PSF model. Therefore, in this study, we tested the changepoint in soil water movement and adopted an improved PSF model to predict hydraulic parameters in saline soil based on image analysis. The results showed that the two‐sample t‐test could identify the changepoint accurately. There was only one changepoint in coastal saline soil when predicting hydraulic properties. Micro‐CT scanning and image analysis can obtain fractal dimensions more accurately and quickly. The coefficients of determination of all treatments were above 0.9. The improved PSF model was more accurate than the previous model in predicting soil hydraulic properties. A comparison of goodness‐of‐fit criteria showed that it is better to adopt the geometrical mean error ratio () and geometrical standard deviation error ratio () as the judgement standard. Due to the anisotropy of soil, the improved PSF model demonstrated a higher accuracy in predicting water content than hydraulic conductivity. The hydraulic conductivity prediction accuracy was negatively correlated with the degree of anisotropy () parameter, and the improved model was more suitable for soils with weak anisotropy. Our research can provide a simple and accurate method for parameter calculation of the PSF model to predict soil hydraulic properties more accurately.

Highlights

The two‐sample t‐test can find the changepoint accurately in the process of soil drying.

Micro‐CT scanning and image analysis can calculate fractal dimension more accurately.

The improved PSF model is more accurate when predicting soil hydraulic properties.

Anisotropy is an important factor that restricts the prediction accuracy of PSF model.
Three‐dimensional simulations of six treatment maneuvers for horizontal canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo canalithiasis
Authors: Bhandari Anita , Bhandari Rajneesh , Kingma Herman , Zuma e Maia Francisco , Strupp Michael
Published: August 2021

Background and purpose

Horizontal canal benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is the second most common variant of BPPV after posterior canal BPPV. Various liberatory maneuvers are recommended for the treatment of horizontal canal BPPV canalithiasis (hc‐BPPV‐ca). The aim of this study was to show how three‐dimensional (3D) dynamic simulation models visualize the movement of the clot of otoconia within the canal for a better understanding of the theoretical efficacy.

Methods

Based on reconstructed magnetic resonance imaging and fluid dynamics, a 3D dynamic simulation model (as a function of time) was developed and applied. Thereby, six treatment maneuvers for hc‐BPPV‐ca were simulated: two types of the roll maneuver (the original 270° and the modified 360°) as well as two Gufoni and Zuma maneuvers (for geotropic and apogeotropic nystagmus).

Results

The simulations showed that the 360° roll maneuver and Zuma maneuver are effective treatment options for hc‐BPPV‐ca for debris in all locations within the canal. However, the original 270° roll maneuver will not be effective if the clot is in the ampullary arm of the horizontal canal. The Gufoni maneuver for geotropic hc‐BPPV‐ca is effective, whereas for apogeotropic hc‐BPPV‐ca there is a risk of treatment failure due to insufficient repositioning of the debris.

Conclusions

The 3D simulations for movement of the otoconia clots can be used to test the mechanism of action and the theoretical efficacy of existing maneuvers for the different BPPV variants. For hc‐BPPV‐ca, the modified 360° roll maneuver and Zuma maneuver are theoretically efficient for all subtypes, whereas Gufoni maneuver is effective for geotropic nystagmus only.
Improving the prediction of epilepsy surgery outcomes using basic scalp EEG findings
Authors: Fitzgerald Zachary , Morita‐Sherman Marcia , Hogue Olivia , Joseph Boney , Alvim Marina K. M. , Yasuda Clarissa L. , Vegh Deborah , Nair Dileep , Burgess Richard , Bingaman William , Najm Imad , Kattan Michael W. , Blumcke Ingmar , Worrell Gregory , Brinkmann Benjamin H. , Cendes Fernando , Jehi Lara
Published: August 2021

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the role of scalp electroencephalography (EEG; ictal and interictal patterns) in predicting resective epilepsy surgery outcomes. We use the data to further develop a nomogram to predict seizure freedom.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the scalp EEG findings and clinical data of patients who underwent surgical resection at three epilepsy centers. Using both EEG and clinical variables categorized into 13 isolated candidate predictors and 6 interaction terms, we built a multivariable Cox proportional hazards model to predict seizure freedom 2 years after surgery. Harrell's step‐down procedure was used to sequentially eliminate the least‐informative variables from the model until the change in the concordance index (c‐index) with variable removal was less than 0.01. We created a separate model using only clinical variables. Discrimination of the two models was compared to evaluate the role of scalp EEG in seizure‐freedom prediction.

Results

Four hundred seventy patient records were analyzed. Following internal validation, the full Clinical + EEG model achieved an optimism‐corrected c‐index of 0.65, whereas the c‐index of the model without EEG data was 0.59. The presence of focal to bilateral tonic‐clonic seizures (FBTCS), high preoperative seizure frequency, absence of hippocampal sclerosis, and presence of nonlocalizable seizures predicted worse outcome. The presence of FBTCS had the largest impact for predicting outcome. The analysis of the models’ interactions showed that in patients with unilateral interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs), temporal lobe surgery cases had a better outcome. In cases with bilateral IEDs, abnormal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) predicted worse outcomes, and in cases without IEDs, patients with extratemporal epilepsy and abnormal MRI had better outcomes.

Significance

This study highlights the value of scalp EEG, particularly the significance of IEDs, in predicting surgical outcome. The nomogram delivers an individualized prediction of postoperative outcome, and provides a unique assessment of the relationship between the outcome and preoperative findings.
The woman writer's body: Multiplicity, neoliberalism, and feminist resistance
Authors: Quah Sharon Ee Ling , Ridgway Alexandra
Published: August 2021

What goes behind the scene of a woman writer's writing process? Beneath shiny finished writing products lies an arduous writing process often remain unseen to readers. The article makes visible two women writers' bodies and our embodied writing experiences through an intersectional feminist lens. Writer One is a Singapore‐born, ethnic Chinese, queer migrant woman academic residing in Australia with her long‐term partner. Writer Two is an England‐born, Australian‐British dual citizen, white heterosexual married mother of young twin children ready to kick start her academic career after her recent PhD conferment. Writer One with her fibromyalgic, traumatized, and othered bodies and Writer Two with her vulvodynia, mothering, and gendered bodies write themselves, their bodies and embodied writing experiences into existence in this article. Using autoethnographic accounts, they discuss how their multiple, chronically ill, and pained bodies influence their writing process and choice of writing topics. Specifically, they reveal how their bodies negotiate the tension between neoliberal demands imposed on their bodies and their feminist resistance efforts against constrictive forces in the knowledge production economy. Using this piece of writing as feminist resistance, they seek to reject dominant discourses, hold space, inscribe their own narratives, and call for collective feminist action with fellow women writers.
Preference‐based patient participation for most, if not all: A cross‐sectional study of patient participation amongst persons with end‐stage kidney disease
Authors: Martinsson Caroline , Uhlin Fredrik , Wenemark Marika , Eldh Ann Catrine
Published: August 2021

Background

Patient participation is considered central for good healthcare. Yet, the concept is not fully understood when it comes to patients' experiences of participation in conjunction with their preferences, particularly in long‐term healthcare. The aim of this study was to investigate the extent and variation of preference‐based patient participation in patients with end‐stage kidney disease (ESKD).

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted with 346 patients in renal care. The main variables were patients' preferences for and experiences of patient participation, determined using the Patient Preferences for Patient Participation tool, the 4Ps. Analyses identified the degree of match between preferences and experiences, that is, the preference‐based patient participation measure.

Results

Overall, 57%–84% of the patients reached a sufficient level of preference‐based patient participation on the items, while 2%–12% reached an insufficient level. A mismatch indicated either less or more participation than preferred; for example, 40% had less experience than preferred for taking part in planning, and 40% had more than preferred for managing treatment.

Conclusion

This study shows that, although many patients reach a sufficient level of preference‐based patient participation, this is not the case for all patients and/or attributes. Further opportunities for a mutual understanding of patients' preferences are needed for healthcare professionals to support person‐centred patient participation.

Patient or Public Contribution

The 4Ps is manufactured in collaboration with people with experience of the patient role, and persons living with ESKD were engaged in identifying their preferences and experiences of participation in renal care.
Clinical utility of Abbott Alinity hq extended red blood cell parameters in differentiating β‐thalassemia trait and iron deficiency anemia
Authors: Mukhtar Zainab , Valente Sabatino , Masi Loredana , Lakos Gabriella , Papa Fabrizio
Published: August 2021

Introduction

The objective of the study was to evaluate the performance of the Abbott Alinity hq advanced multi angle polarized scatter separation (MAPSSTM)‐based optical RBC technology, for the differentiation between iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and β‐thalassemia carrier status.

Methods

Four hundred and sixty‐four samples were analyzed. 228 were healthy controls, 30 were β‐thalassemia carriers, and 40 were IDA. Receiver operating characteristics analysis evaluated the performance of red cell parameters and mathematical formulas.

Results

RBC concentration was the most efficient discriminant (area under the curve; AUC of 0.963, Youden Index of 0.88) followed by red blood cell distribution width in size distribution (AUC of 0.960 and YI of 0.86), and red blood cell distribution width coefficient of variation (AUC of 0.924, and YI of 0.74). The absolute reticulocyte concentration showed good diagnostic efficiency, with AUC of 0.808. Hemoglobin distribution width, the %CV of directly measured cellular hemoglobin concentration, and CHCr, the average hemoglobin concentration of reticulocytes have emerged as novel discriminating parameters, with AUC of 0.749 and 0.785, respectively.

The England and Fraser index was the best discriminating mathematical formula based on Youden Index of 0.91. The Ricerca, red blood cell distribution width index, Green and King, and Mentzner Index formulas also showed strong discriminative power. The Shine and Lal index, together with the recent mathematical formula M/H, (ratio of percent microcytic and hypochromic red blood cells) demonstrated moderate performance with AUC of 0.796 and 0.740, respectively.

Conclusion

Extended red cell analysis delivered by the advanced optical technology on the Alinity hq hematology analyzer has efficient diagnostic utility in the initial discrimination of the two most common microcytic anemias: IDA and β‐thalassemia trait.
Quality of care in people requiring hospital admission for gout in Aotearoa New Zealand: a nationwide analysis
Authors: Murdoch Rachel , Jones Peter , Greenwell James , Dalbeth Nicola
Published: August 2021

Background

The quality of care for patients admitted with a primary diagnosis of gout, both before and after admission, has not been systematically examined.

Aims

To understand national trends in hospital admission for a primary diagnosis of gout in Aotearoa New Zealand over the past 10 years and the quality of care for gout received by these patients before and after the admission.

Methods

Data from the Aotearoa New Zealand National Collections from 1 January 2007 to 31 December 2019 were analysed to determine rates of hospital admission for a primary diagnosis of gout. Admission data include cost−weight analysis, as well as quality of care data including gout‐specific medication dispensing in the year prior and year after admission.

Results

There were 13 721 admissions with a primary diagnosis of gout over the analysis period, with an average cost per admission in 2019 of NZ$4301. The rate of admission per 100 000 population was highest in Pacific peoples followed by Māori. Although dispensing of any allopurinol increased in the year after admission, rates of regular allopurinol dispensing remained low; 38.1% for admissions in 2018. Patients who were younger (especially 20–44 years), not enrolled in a primary health organisation before admission and female had lower rate of regular allopurinol after admission.

Conclusion

In this nationwide study, rates of admission for gout were highest in Pacific peoples and in Māori. Rates of regular allopurinol dispensing were low even after admission for a primary diagnosis of gout. These findings highlight the need for improvements in gout management in Aotearoa New Zealand, including in post‐discharge planning from secondary care inpatient services.
A critical analysis of vulnerability in informal sector employment in India: Protective mechanisms and adequacy of protection
Authors: Khan Ghazala Ali
Published: August 2021

The measure of a civilized society, is how well it is able to protect its weakest and most vulnerable members. Vulnerable workers typically comprise very young and elderly workers, and disabled, indigent, and sick workers, usually employed in unregulated informal sector jobs. This study seeks to study the prevalence of vulnerability among workers in India, both physical and economic, occasioned by informality of their employment. It looks into the kind and degree of vulnerability faced by workers in informal sector occupations, in part by comparing with similar workers in formal employment, and checks whether protective mechanisms and safety nets are required, mandated, and in place, in the form of food transfers, medical treatment, income support, or subsidies. Relying on primary data, this study seeks to assess the actual availability and adequacy of social protection in terms of access and enforceability, gaps and reasons thereof, including barriers to take‐up, and concludes that gaps in implementation and targeting are the primary reasons for the prevalence of vulnerability in informal employment.
Long non‐coding RNAs in diabetic wound healing: Current research and clinical relevance
Authors: Kuai Le , Jiang Jing‐Si , Li Wei , Li Bin , Yin Shuang‐Yi
Published: August 2021

Diabetic wounds are a protracted complication of diabetes mainly characterised by chronic inflammation, obstruction of epithelialization, damaged blood vessels and collagen production (maturation), as well as neuropathy. As a non‐coding RNA (ncRNA) that lack coding potential, long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have recently been reported to play a salient role in diabetic wound healing. Here, this review summarises the roles of lncRNAs in the pathology and treatments of diabetic wounds, providing references for its potential clinical diagnostic criteria or therapeutic targets in the future.