bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beyond traditional synergies: exploring network, relational and nonmarket gains in European M&A
Authors: Sghaier Adnène
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the sources of synergy gains in European mergers and acquisitions (M&A) from 2010 to 2021, focusing on both traditional and emerging synergies. Empirically validate novel types of synergies, including relational, network and nonmarket synergies, alongside operational, financial and market power synergies. Examine the impact of firm characteristics, governance structures and market conditions on the magnitude and success of synergy gains postacquisition.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses a quantitative approach, analyzing a sample of 342 European M&A transactions from 2010 to 2021. Synergy gains are evaluated through econometric modeling, examining the effects of various firm and transaction characteristics on value creation.

Findings

The study reveals that operational synergies, primarily driven by cost reductions and investment savings, are the most significant contributors to value creation in European M&A. Financial synergies, while present, have a more limited impact. Additionally, relational and network synergies emerge as crucial, enhancing firms’ positions within business networks. However, nonmarket synergies did not yield significant results, highlighting the challenges of quantifying intangible benefits. Firm characteristics such as board diversity and independence are found to positively influence the realization of these synergies.

Practical implications

For practitioners, the findings emphasize the importance of considering both traditional and emerging sources of synergies in M&A evaluations. Decision-makers should focus not only on operational efficiency but also on enhancing relational and network positioning to maximize postacquisition value. The study also highlights the role of strong governance, particularly board diversity and independence, in ensuring successful integration and synergy realization.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the existing literature by empirically validating previously unexplored synergies, particularly relational, network and nonmarket synergies, in the context of European M&A. By integrating network-based perspectives, it expands the scope of traditional synergy analysis and offers a more holistic view of value creation postacquisition. The research also provides practical insights by identifying key governance factors that influence the realization of these synergies, making it a valuable resource for both academics and practitioners.
Toward fast network intrusion detection for web services: partial-flow feature extraction and dataset construction
Authors: Wang Tianfeng , Xu Yingying , Tang Zhenzhou
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Timely intrusion detection in extensive traffic remains a pressing and complex challenge, including for Web services. Current research emphasizes improving detection accuracy through machine learning, with scant attention paid to the dataset’s impact on the capability for fast detection. Many datasets rely on flow-level features, requiring entire flow completion before determining if it constitutes an attack, reducing efficiency. This paper aims to introduce a new feature extraction method and construct a new security dataset that enhances detection efficiency.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes a novel partial-flow feature extraction method that extracts packet-level features efficiently to reduce the high latency of flow-level extraction. The method also integrates statistical and temporal features derived from partial flows to improve accuracy. The method was applied to the original packet capture (PCAP) files utilized in creating the CSE-CIC-IDS 2018 dataset, resulting in the development of the WKLIN-WEB-2023 dataset specifically designed for web intrusion detection. The effectiveness of this method was evaluated by training nine classification models on both the WKLIN-WEB-2023 and CSE-CIC-IDS 2018 datasets.

Findings

The experimental results show that models trained on the WKLIN-WEB-2023 dataset consistently outperform those on the CSE-CIC-IDS 2018 dataset across precision, recall, f1-score, and detection latency. This demonstrates the superior effectiveness of the new dataset in enhancing both the efficiency and accuracy of intrusion detection.

Originality/value

This study proposes the partial-flow feature extraction method, creating the WKLIN-WEB-2023 dataset. This novel approach significantly enhances detection efficiency while maintaining classification performance, providing a valuable foundation for further research on intrusion detection efficiency.
Investigating mobile blended learning adoption with usability factors: an empirical study
Authors: Chand Sailesh Saras , Kumar Bimal Aklesh
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Mobile blended learning (MBL) is becoming common in higher education settings; however, the student’s intention to adopt such technological innovation is less explored. The purpose of this study is to measure MBL adoption using common variables used in the literature (supporting factors, learner attitude, learner perspective and learner effectiveness) and extending the model to include usability factors (ease of use, satisfaction and usefulness).

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected from 322 respondents and analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis and partial least squares-structured equation modeling technique to assess the hypothesis. A five-point Likert scale instrument was developed using the existing literature for data collection.

Findings

The findings have both theoretical and managerial implications concerning MBL adoption. From a theoretical perspective, the findings provide a reconfirmation of the importance of usability in MBL adoption. From a managerial perspective, it will provide the necessary knowledge to incorporate relevant variables and factors that decision-makers could use to oversee a successful implementation.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the ever-growing body of literature on MBL through an analysis of students’ intention to adopt MBL using usability factors.
Financial analysts’ use of industry specific stock valuation models
Authors: Olbert Lars
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the industry-specific preferred valuation model utilised by analysts’ in determining a stock’s target price. By understanding analysts’ use of industry-specific valuation models, we can enhance our comprehension of important aspects of value creation in these sectors. Therefore, understanding the industry context is crucial for accurately assessing the value of companies within that industry and selecting the most suitable valuation model.

Design/methodology/approach

The method employed in this study is content analysis, examining the output of analysts’ valuation models within 25 Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS) industry groups. I hand-collected 806 equity reports from Capital IQ, selecting the four companies with the largest market capitalization from each of the 25 industry groups.

Findings

Price/Earnings (P/E) emerges as the preferred valuation model in 20 out of the 25 industry groups based on the GICS, with some exceptions. Notably, EV/EBITDA is favoured in the telecom, energy and materials sectors, while the capital goods industry primarily relies on Price/Cash flow (P/CF). In the Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) sector, P/AFFO (adjusted funds from operations) is the most commonly employed model. While earnings multiples remain the favoured valuation model for financial analysts, a noticeable shift away from multiperiod valuation models is evident after the first decade of the 21st century.

Research limitations/implications

The findings can increase our comprehension of the interplay between valuation methodologies, industry characteristics and investment decision-making.

Practical implications

It establishes a foundation for future research in this field and is anticipated to be of interest to analysts, fund managers and investors. The findings can increase our comprehension of the interplay between valuation methodologies, industry characteristics and investment decision-making.

Originality/value

This paper represents the first systematic and comprehensive examination of analysts’ utilisation of industry-specific stock valuation methods across all 25 GICS industry groups.
Unravelling the natural resources and capital flight nexus: evidence from BRICS nations
Authors: Pathak Shivangi , Pradhan Ashis Kumar , Thomas Ronny
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to focus on the impact of environmental factors on capital flight from BRICS countries. This study proposes modelling the different natural resource rents including coal, oil, gas, mineral and forests with capital flight outlining how the resource extraction cause corruption and rent seeking leading to outflow of resident capital.

Design/methodology/approach

World Bank residual method is used for estimation of capital flight followed by dynamic common correlated effect (DCCE) approach developed by Chudik and Pesaran (2015) for empirical analysis. To ensure the reliability and robustness of results, this study constructs a Natural Resource Rent Index (NRRI) using principal component analysis (PCA) of various resource rents including coal, oil, gas, mineral and forests.

Findings

The econometric analysis reveals that natural resource rents significantly contribute to resident capital outflows from BRICS countries. Furthermore, this study finds that increased government involvement in resource extraction significantly reduces capital flight.

Practical implications

The findings of this study emphasize the necessity of proactive policy measures to mitigate capital flight from BRICS countries, particularly through enhanced government engagement in resource management.

Originality/value

This study fills literature gap by identifying how environmental factors fuel capital flight in BRICS economies.
A re-design of intellectual disability undergraduate medical training and implementation of an e-learning tool; improving students’ knowledge, skills and attitudes
Authors: Challinor Alexander , Cawson Alys , Crouch Matthew Alan , Davies Tony , Hewitt Natalie , Harpin Gemma , Odiyoor Mahesh , Jaydeokar Sujeet
Published: December 2024

Purpose

People with intellectual disability face extensive health inequality and premature mortality. Medical students have reported that they lack the skills, knowledge and confidence to work with those with intellectual disability and autism. This emphasises the need for tomorrow’s doctors to be adequately trained. This study aims to investigate students’ knowledge, skills and attitudes towards people with intellectual disability and autism, examining whether these outcomes change following curricula re-design and with implementation of an e-learning module.

Design/methodology/approach

The university curricula in intellectual disability and autism were re-designed and an e-learning module developed using co-production. This was delivered to fourth-year medical students with a subgroup receiving the additional e-learning. A controlled trial evaluated students’ knowledge, skills and attitudes using pre- and post-questionnaires. Statistical tests of difference were used to the scores obtained.

Findings

This study showed an improvement in knowledge, skills and attitudes with intellectual disability and autism after curricula engagement, with an incremental benefit observed for students also completing the e-learning module. There was significant difference in pre-and-post placement scores assessing student attitudes towards intellectual disability and autism teaching.

Originality/value

This study highlights the importance of a multi-faceted, co-produced curricula re-design in intellectual disability and autism. The benefit of the e-learning module holds hope that the newly introduced mandatory Oliver McGowan training will be beneficial in the development of tomorrow’s doctors. Effective training in intellectual disability and autism is vital to improve the care and support delivered and reduce unnecessary deaths.
Packaging-free shopping: when retailers and consumers (re/mis)appropriate packaging functions
Authors: Reniou Fanny , Robert-Monnot Elisa , Lasri Sarah
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Packaging-free shopping disrupts the usual retailing and consumption patterns in which packaging usually plays a central role. When manufacturers no longer offer predetermined packaging, how do retailers and consumers ensure packaging functions? Investigating the way packaging-free actors appropriate packaging functions during use is particularly important because they exert a new power over these functions, which can be challenging to appropriate. The purpose of this study is to contribute to a deeper understanding of why packaging-free shopping can be perceived as constraining.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing from the literature on packaging functions and adopting Miller’s conceptual framework of appropriation, this research uses a qualitative method with a variety of discursive and visual data, including 54 interviews with experts from packaging-free product stores and consumers, 190 Instagram consumer posts and 428 in-store and at-home photographs.

Findings

This research shows that packaging-free actors jointly appropriate packaging functions through two modes of appropriation (assimilation and accommodation) each encompassing distinct strategies and highlights the misappropriation that actors can experience, especially when prioritizing one function over another.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the literature on packaging-free shopping, an emergent and growing trend that challenges conventional shopping models. The research reveals dark sides of packaging-free shopping – namely, the damaging effects on health and the environment and social exclusion. In particular, it discusses the ambivalence of the packaging-free shopping environmental function. This research also deepens insight into how individual acts of appropriation may lead to misappropriation.
Preparation and evaluation of pyrazolo[1,5-a] pyrimidine azo disperse dyes as colored materials in dyeing onto polyester fabrics
Authors: Ali Ali A. , A.M. Al-Zahrani Fatimah , Elgammal Walid E. , Ali Mahmoud , Mahmoud Ammar M. , Abd El-Wahab H.
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to prepare some disperse dyes based on pyrazole derivatives and fully evaluate their use as azo-disperse dyes linked with pyrazolo[1,5-a] pyrimidine. This study aims to prepare dye polyester fabric at different conditions (pH and time) at a depth of 4% using a high-temperature pressure process in water.

Design/methodology/approach

The disperse dyes were created by dissolving enaminone and pyrazole derivatives in glacial acetic acid and fusing sodium acetate at reflux for 6 h. The chemical structure of the produced dye was studied using elemental analysis, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectroscopic analytical methods. The dyeing of Dispersed dyes 14–16 on polyester under diverse conditions was comprehensively investigated in this work.

Findings

The prepared Organic dyes 14–16 were found to be highly functional and suitable for this type of dyeing technique. High color strength is possessed by the materials dyed with Disperse dyes 14–16. Even in low alkaline conditions, these dyes exhibited a strong affinity for polyester fabric, changing just little in response to pH changes. The hue of the dyed polyester samples varied from beige to reddish brown and yellowish brown because of the coupler moieties.

Originality/value

This study is important because it offers novel dyes that may be used to dye polyethylene terephthalate fibers that exhibit remarkable brightness and levelness. It also offers a viable solution for creating a variety of colors in polyester fabrics.
Interlayer temperature optimisation: an approach to maximising strength in the large-scale additive manufacture of fibre-reinforced PETG
Authors: Storey Peter , Groom Allin , Perumal Vishak , Al-Ariss Shadi
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to establish a reproducible method for quantifying the anisotropy between printed layers based on interlayer temperature and, using this information, provide recommendations for maximising print strength. Fibre-reinforced polymers are gaining popularity in large-scale material extrusion, which involves the layer-by-layer deposition of melted polymeric granulates. However, the mechanical performance of 3D printed components is highly influenced by the quality of the interfacial bond between layers. Material data sheets often do not report the extent of this anisotropy, thereby making it challenging to account for during the design stage without mechanical characterisation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study investigates the effect of the temperature at the interface between layers on the ultimate tensile strength of 3D printed parts made with post-industrial polyethylene terephthalate glycol.

Findings

This study identifies an optimal previous layer temperature (Tp) of 130 ± 10°C, where interlayer bonding and material properties are maximised. An upper limit of 150°C is identified to avoid material sagging and a critical lower bound of approximately 113°C for achieving at least 80% of the maximum part strength. Moreover, this study underscores the importance of considering the effective cross-sectional area due to the ridged surface of printed samples. Recommendations include the use of infrared heat lamps for temperature control to ensure sustained interlayer bonding.

Research limitations/implications

The research does not address long-term effects and environmental factors affecting material properties, suggesting these as areas for future research.

Originality/value

This study’s findings are instrumental in establishing optimal printing parameters for large-scale material extrusion, thereby improving the reliability of 3D printed parts in industries like manufacturing and civil engineering.
Effects of environmental provisions in international trade agreements on businesses and economies – a systematic review
Authors: Gutsch Michelle , Mai Johanna , Ukhova Nelli , Dijkstra-Silva Samanthi
Published: December 2024

Purpose

International trade and its effects on the environment are increasingly discussed both in academia and by policymakers. To counter negative effects of international trade on the environment, so called environmental provisions have been integrated in trade agreements aimed at businesses and economies. However, as both the intent and effectiveness of these provisions are controversial, this paper aims to provide an overview of the current state of research and identified key factors influencing their effectiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conduct a systematic literature review of 44 papers on the effects of environmental provisions in international trade agreements on the environmental performance of businesses, as well as economies from 1992 to mid-2024.

Findings

The integration of environmental provisions into trade agreements generally has positive effects on the environment while their effectiveness is influenced by their design and several boundary conditions. Alongside the importance of effective enforcement mechanisms, reputation concerns of businesses and lobbyism are discussed as intermediary factors in the design and impact of environmental provisions.

Practical implications

The insights can benefit policymakers to optimize future environmental provisions and advance the effectiveness of policies aimed at balancing the effects of trade liberalization with environmental protection.

Social implications

Social sustainability is increasingly relevant for creating more sustainable trade policy while societal mechanisms seem to be an adequate tool to ensure effective enforcement of ecological provisions.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this review is the first of its kind to provide a systematic overview of the literature on the effectiveness of environmental provisions that combines the micro-level of businesses and macro-level of economies, although the importance for trade in general and environmental protection, in particular, has been recognized in the academic literature.
Improving Innovation Quality in Responding to Rigorous Intellectual Property Logic in Emerging Economies? The Role of Subsidy Policy for Patenting Overseas and International Imprinting
Authors: Lin Ming , Wei Yingqi , Han Xia , Li Xuecong , Wang Yifan
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the link between subsidy policy for patenting overseas (SPPO) and the innovation quality of emerging economy firms, focusing on the role of international imprinting. Through the theoretical lenses of institutional logics and imprinting, we hypothesize that SPPO, which embodies a rigorous intellectual property (IP) logic, enhances innovation quality, particularly in firms with international imprinting. Analysing Chinese listed firms in the computers, telecommunications and electronics sectors during 2004–2021 using matching and difference‐in‐differences techniques, we find that firms responding to SPPO show improved innovation quality. This effect is amplified by international imprinting at the board and organizational levels, both separately and jointly. These findings highlight that international imprinting enhances the effectiveness of government policy that embodies rigorous IP logic, offering valuable insights for managers and policymakers seeking to foster high‐quality innovation in emerging economies.
Who polarises? Who targets? Parties’ educational speech over the long run
Authors: GINGRICH JANE , GIUDICI ANJA
Published: December 2024

How do political parties speak about education? While struggles over education played a foundational role in structuring modern partisan cleavages, scholars debate the extent to which parties still adopt distinct rhetorical stances on education. Existing data, however, is limited to studying broad public support or opposition to educational expansion, restricting both our empirical knowledge of the politicisation of education and our ability to theorise parties’ incentives to speak publicly about it. This paper provides the first systematic examination of the post‐war evolution of partisan rhetoric about education in advanced democracies. We develop a novel dataset (Education Politics Dataset EPD) based on hand‐coded manifesto speech of the largest centre‐left and centre‐right parties for 20 countries in Europe and beyond, from 1950 to the present. The EPD distinguishes nine educational issues, grouped under the three fundamental policy dimensions of distribution, governance and curricular content. We theorise that parties use educational speech both to signal competence to a broader electorate and to signal credibility to a narrower base. The result is three distinct patterns of speech: consensual, differentially salient and polarised. Where education policies cross‐cut existing cleavages, parties devote similar attention to issues and adopt similar stances, creating a consensual pattern. We find this pattern for issues of participation and quality in education. Where education policies are universal but offer specific benefits to a partisan base, we find patterns of differential salience: some parties devote more rhetorical attention to the issue than others, but parties adopt common stances. We find this pattern for questions of spending and access. Finally, where education policies align with broader political cleavages and provide targeted electoral benefits to partisan bases, parties adopt distinct public stances leading to more polarised rhetoric. We find this pattern for issues related to academic tracking and traditional curricular content. In developing the first multidimensional theorisation and measurement of partisan rhetoric on education, the paper provides insight into parties’ evolving approaches to an area increasingly crucial to electoral and social life.
Are poor people poorly heard?
Authors: SEVENANS JULIE , MARIÉ AWENIG , BREUNIG CHRISTIAN , WALGRAVE STEFAAN , SOONTJENS KAROLIN , VLIEGENTHART RENS
Published: December 2024

A growing body of literature shows that the preferences of poorer groups in society are less well represented than the preferences of the rich. This paper scrutinises one possible explanation of inequality in representation: that politicians hold biased perceptions of what citizens want. We conducted surveys with citizens and politicians in four countries: Belgium, Switzerland, Canada and Germany. Citizens provided their preferences regarding concrete policy proposals, and then politicians estimated these preferences. Comparing politicians’ estimates with the actual preferences of different social groups, the paper shows that politicians’ perceptions are closer to the preferences of the richer than to those of poorer people for issues that matter most for economic inequality: socio‐economic issues. Further, we find that especially right‐wing politicians tend to think about the preferences of richer societal groups when estimating the preferences of their partisan electorates on socio‐economic matters.
Reconstructing seasonal unimpaired runoff volumes to the San Francisco Estuary: Extending the available record back to water year 1872
Authors: Lai Yuchuan , Hutton Paul H. , Roy Sujoy B.
Published: December 2024

Unimpaired flow, also known as “virgin” or “naturalized” flow, is the theoretical runoff that would occur absent human alteration and is a common metric used worldwide to support watershed management, regulation and ecosystem restoration. California water managers use an existing record of unimpaired runoff from 10 watersheds upstream of the San Francisco Estuary to inform a variety of planning and regulatory functions. In this work, we extended the available record by several decades to 1872. This runoff reconstruction, accomplished through a multivariate regression‐based modeling approach, used a novel time series methodology that decomposes and combines sparse records measured at varying locations to generate composite temperature and precipitation input for each watershed. Runoff predictions were used to calculate watershed runoff indices and assign water year classifications using current regulatory conventions. The first third of the extended record (1872–1921) has a significantly higher percentage of wet years and a significantly lower percentage of dry and critically dry years compared with the latter two‐thirds of the record (1922–2021). Consistent with earlier paleohydrology research, this finding indicates the occurrence of a dramatic decadal‐scale hydrologic shift from very wet to very dry conditions during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Connectivity of the neuronal network for contextual fear memory is disrupted in a mouse model of third‐trimester binge‐like ethanol exposure
Authors: Morningstar Mitchell D. , Lopez Katalina M. , Mayfield Stefanie S. , Almeida‐Mancero Roberto N. , Marquez Joshua , Flores Andres M. , Hafer Brooke R. , Estrada Edilberto , Holtzman Gwen A. , Goranson Emerald V. , Reid Natalie M. , Aldrich Abigale R. , Ghatalia Desna V. , Patel Juhee R. , Padilla Christopher M. , Chavez Glenna J. , Kelly‐Roman Javier , Bhakta Pooja A. , Valenzuela C. Fernando , Linsenbardt David N.
Published: December 2024

Background

In rodents, third‐trimester‐equivalent alcohol exposure (TTAE) produces significant deficits in hippocampal‐dependent memory processes such as contextual fear conditioning (CFC). The present study sought to characterize changes in both behavior and Fos+ neurons following CFC in ethanol (EtOH)‐treated versus saline‐treated mice using TRAP2:Ai14 mice that permanently label Fos+ neurons following a tamoxifen injection. We hypothesized that TTAE would produce long‐lasting disruptions to the networks engaged following CFC with a particular emphasis on the limbic memory system.

Methods

On postnatal day 7, mice received either two injections of saline or 2.5 g/kg EtOH spaced 2 h apart. The mice were left undisturbed until they reached adulthood, at which point they underwent CFC. After context exposure on day 2, mice received a tamoxifen injection. Brain tissue was harvested. Slides were automatically imaged using a Zeiss AxioScanner. Manual counts on a priori regions of interest were conducted. Automated counts were performed on the whole brain using the QUINT 2D stitching pipeline. Last, novel network analyses were applied to identify future regions of interest.

Results

TTAE reduced context recall on day 2 of CFC. Fos+ neural density increased in the CA1 and CA3. Fos+ counts were reduced in the anteroventral (AV) and anterodorsal thalamus. The limbic memory system showed significant hyperconnectivity in male TTAE mice, and the AV shifted affinity toward hippocampal subregions. Last, novel regions such as a subparafascicular area and basomedial amygdalar nucleus were implicated as important mediators.

Discussion

These results suggest that CFC is mediated by the limbic memory system and is disrupted following TTAE. Given the increase in CA1 and CA3 activity, a potential hypothesis is that TTAE causes disruptions to memory encoding following day 1 conditioning. Future studies will aim to determine whether this disruption specifically affects the encoding or retrieval of fear memories.
Decision usefulness of SME financial statements in Sri Lanka
Authors: Wijekoon Nisansala , Sharma Umesh , Samkin Grant
Published: December 2024

This paper examines the users of Sri Lankan small and medium‐sized entities' (SMEs) financial statements, and their information needs. Semi‐structured interviews found the main recipients of SME financial information are banks, the Inland Revenue Department and other government institutions. However, the users' concerns, such as manipulation of financial results, tax orientation, insufficient detail, and out‐of‐date information, hinder the decision usefulness of SME financial statements. Given this context, the widespread problems of unreliability and non‐compliance with accounting principles and standards present a substantial hurdle in evaluating the decision usefulness of SMEs' financial statements in Sri Lanka. The Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka, regulatory bodies and government authorities need to pay greater attention to SMEs' financial reporting and take steps to make it credible and relevant to users' needs.
Coypu (Myocastor coypus bonaeriensis) Ovarian Morphology During the Oestrous Cycle
Authors: Felipe Antonio Eduardo , Herrera Juan Manuel , Killian Marcelo Pablo , Lombardo Daniel Marcelo
Published: December 2024

The coypu (Myocastor coypus bonariensis) is an annual polyestrous hystricomorph rodent with variable‐length oestrous cycles, which ovarian histoarchitecture during this period is not fully described. This study analyses variations in ovarian morphology during the oestrous cycle, focusing on follicular development and atresia. Eighteen sexually mature virgin females aged 7–9 months, weighing 4.795 ± 0.3996 kg, were used. Daily colpocytological analyses were performed to establish the cycle duration, followed by euthanasia at different phases—prooestrus, estrus, meteostrus, and on days 5, 10, and 20 of dioestrus. Morphology and superficial appearance of the ovaries, weight, and volume at each stage were recorded, and volume increase over time was analysed. A morphological classification and size ranges every 100 μm for follicular development analysis were used. Relative area analysis determined the proportions of different ovarian components and the absolute and relative frequencies of atretic and/or luteinized structures. Our study revealed differences between prooestrus, meteostrus, and all dioestrus phases, as well as between oestrus and metoestrus, and dioestrus at 10 and 20 days. Ovarian surface exhibited variations across different oestrous cycle stages, and atretic follicles were observed in all analysed stages. These findings provide new data and contribute to the understanding of the reproductive cycle in this species.
Efficacy and Safety of Dupilumab in Children With Peanut Allergy: A Multicenter, Open‐Label, Phase II Study
Authors: Sindher Sayantani B. , Nadeau Kari C. , Chinthrajah R. Sharon , Leflein Jeffrey G. , Bégin Philippe , Ohayon Jason A. , Ponda Punita , Wambre Erik , Liu Jinzhong , Khokhar Faisal A. , Akinlade Bolanle , Maloney Jennifer , Orengo Jamie M. , Hamilton Jennifer D. , Kamal Mohamed A. , Hooper Andrea T. , Patel Naimish , Patel Kiran , Laws Elizabeth , Mannent Leda P. , Radin Allen R.
Published: December 2024

Background

Peanut allergy is a potentially life‐threatening food allergy in children. This study explored whether dupilumab, a human monoclonal immunoglobulin (Ig)G4 antibody that blocks the activity of interleukin (IL)‐4/IL‐13, improved safety and desensitization to peanut exposure in children with peanut allergy.

Methods

A Phase II, 24‐week, multicenter, single‐arm, open‐label, proof‐of‐concept study was conducted in the USA and Canada (NCT03793608). Children/adolescents with peanut allergy received subcutaneous dupilumab 300 mg (≥ 60 kg) or 200 mg (≥ 20 to < 60 kg) every 2 weeks. The primary endpoint was the proportion of participants who passed a double‐blind placebo‐controlled food challenge (DBPCFC) with ≥ 444 mg (cumulative) of peanut protein at week 24. Secondary endpoints included safety measures (Consortium of Food Allergy Research grading system) and change from baseline in peanut‐specific (ps)‐IgG4, total IgE, and ps‐IgE.

Results

Twenty‐four participants enrolled and received dupilumab: 75.0% were male, 79.2% were white, mean (standard deviation) age was 11.7 (3.3) years. Most (95.8%) participants had not received allergen immunotherapy. Two participants (8.3%) achieved the primary endpoint and passed the DBPCFC at week 24. Fifteen participants (62.5%) reported 66 treatment‐emergent adverse events, all being mild or in moderate intensity. At the week 24 DBPCFC, 8 participants (33.3%) had a grade 2 allergic reaction (no grade 3 or above); 10 (41.7%) used adrenaline as a rescue medication. Dupilumab treatment resulted in a median reduction of total and ps‐IgE of −54% and −49%, respectively, and a 0% change in ps‐IgG4.

Conclusions

Dupilumab monotherapy treatment for 24 weeks did not improve desensitization to peanut exposure after food challenge.
Tralokinumab Treatment in Adult Atopic Dermatitis Patients: 28‐Week Evaluation of Clinical Effectiveness, Safety, Serum Proteins and Total IgE Levels
Authors: Dekkers Coco , Zuithoff Nicolaas , Bakker Daphne , Knol Edward , Wevers Anne , Touwslager Wouter , Christoffers Wianda , Prosje Petra , van Lynden‐van Nes Anneke , van Lümig Paula , Kamsteeg Marijke , Oosting Albert Jan , Schuttelaar Marie L. A. , Haeck Inge , de Graaf Marlies , van Wijk Femke , de Bruin‐Weller Marjolein
Published: December 2024

Introduction and Objectives

Tralokinumab—a biological that specifically targets interleukin‐13—is one of the newer advanced systemic treatments for patients with moderate‐to‐severe atopic dermatitis (AD). Although safety and efficacy have been shown in phase‐III clinical trials, daily practice data are needed. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate 28‐week safety and effectiveness, serum proteins and total IgE levels in adult AD patients treated with tralokinumab in daily practice.

Materials and Methods

Data of all adult AD patients who started treatment with tralokinumab and participated in the BioDay registry were collected at baseline, and after 4,16 and 28 weeks of treatment. Clinical efficacy was evaluated by clinical outcome measures, such as the Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) as well as patient‐reported outcome measures, such as the numerical rating scale (NRS) for pruritus. Adverse events were evaluated. In a subgroup of patients, 18 proteins as well as total IgE levels were measured in serum.

Results

A total of 84 patients were included, of whom 39 were dupilumab‐naïve (D‐naïve) and 45 were dupilumab non‐naïve (D‐non‐naïve) patients. All primary outcomes significantly improved during 28 weeks of tralokinumab treatment and the probability of achieving EASI ≤ 7 and NRS‐pruritis ≤ 4 was 75.8% (56.9–88.2) and 51.4% (28.0–74.2), respectively. The disease severity‐associated proteins TARC/CCL17 and PARC/CCL18 decreased during treatment, and total IgE levels significantly decreased in the D‐naïve patients. The most reported adverse events were eye disorders (n = 24, 28.6%). A total of 23 patients (27.4%) discontinued treatment due to adverse events and/or ineffectiveness, with hair loss being the most common adverse event leading to treatment discontinuation (n = 6).

Conclusion

Tralokinumab is an effective treatment for moderate‐to‐severe AD in adult patients, in both dupilumab‐naïve patients and patients who previously failed on dupilumab treatment. The clinical effect is supported by the biological data.
T Cells Induce Prolonged Downregulation of Barrier Molecules in a Mouse Model of Allergic Contact Dermatitis
Authors: Vaher Helen , Gadsbøll Anne‐Sofie Ø. , Seibel Alexandra T. , Kongsbak‐Wismann Martin , Lohmann Rebecca K. D. , Mraz Veronika , Funch Anders B. , Jee Mia H. , Ødum Niels , Woetmann Anders , Geisler Carsten , Bonefeld Charlotte M.
Published: December 2024

Background

Dysfunction of the skin barrier is regarded as a key event in the initiation and progression of inflammatory skin diseases. In many cases of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD), epidermal‐resident memory CD8+ T (TRM) cells play a central role in the immune response to contact allergens. However, if and how allergen‐specific CD8+ TRM cells affect the expression of skin barrier molecules is not known.

Methods

The expression level of skin barrier molecules was determined by RT‐qPCR and immunofluorescence in a mouse model of ACD. The role of CD8+ T cells on the expression of skin barrier molecules was investigated by depletion of CD8+ cells. Human primary keratinocytes were used to assess the direct effect of IFN‐γ and contact allergen on their expression of skin barrier molecules.

Results

Sensitization with the contact allergen 1‐fluoro‐2,4‐dinitrobenzene (DNFB) resulted in epidermal accumulation of CD8+ TRM cells and prolonged upregulation of Ifng and downregulation of keratin 5 (Krt5) and Krt14 even after complete macroscopic remission of the inflammatory response. Challenge with DNFB lead to an additionally rapid downregulation of Krt5 and Krt14 and the downregulation of several other skin barrier molecules. Depletion of CD8+ cells abolished both the prolonged and rapid downregulation of skin barrier molecules. In keratinocytes, IFN‐γ and contact allergen synergistically down‐regulated the expression of KRT5 and KRT14.

Conclusion

CD8+ TRM cells contribute to a prolonged reduction in the expression of skin barrier molecules, which might exacerbate allergen permeation and the inflammatory response during succeeding exposures of the skin to allergens and antigens.
Comparison of balloon catheter, oral misoprostol, or combination of both for cervical ripening in late‐term and post‐term nulliparous women: A Finnish randomized controlled multicenter pilot trial
Authors: Kruit Heidi , Place Katariina , Väyrynen Kirsi , Orden Maija‐Riitta , Tekay Aydin , Vääräsmäki Marja , Uotila Jukka , Tihtonen Kati , Rinne Kirsi , Mäkikallio Kaarin , Heinonen Seppo , Rahkonen Leena
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Nulliparous women beyond term have high rates of induction failure. The aim of this study was to compare delivery outcomes for balloon catheter, misoprostol, and combination of both in nulliparous late‐ and post‐term women with unfavorable cervices. We intended to explore whether the combination strategy has lower cesarean section rate and is as safe as either method alone.

Material and Methods

The randomized multicenter pilot trial was carried out in the five university hospitals and the largest secondary care hospital of Finland March 1, 2018–March 31, 2022. A total of 273 nulliparous women with viable singleton fetus in cephalic presentation, intact amniotic membranes, and an unfavorable cervix at 41 + 0 gestational weeks were included. The study protocol was registered in the ISCTN registry (ISRCTN83219789). The women were randomized into cervical ripening by balloon catheter, oral misoprostol 50 μg every 4 h, or the combination use of both. The primary outcomes of the study were the rates of cesarean section and composite of adverse neonatal outcomes (5‐min Apgar score <7, umbilical artery pH ≤7.05, or NICU admission).

Results

Ninety‐seven women (35.5%) were allocated in the balloon catheter arm, 94 (34.4%) in the oral misoprostol arm, and 82 (30.0%) in the combination treatment arm. The rates of cesarean section (balloon catheter 23.7%, n = 23/97, vs. oral misoprostol 24.5%, n = 23/94, vs. combination 17.1%, n = 14/82) or composite adverse neonatal outcome (7.2% vs. 7.4% vs. 7.3%, respectively) were not statistically significantly different between the groups. The median (interquartile range) induction to delivery interval was the shortest in the combination treatment, 21.7 (15.1–33.2) h compared to balloon catheter 31.7 (21.9–44.5) h; p < 0.01 or oral misoprostol 37.0 (26.7–60.3) h; p < 0.01. The proportion of women with induction to delivery interval ≤24 h was significantly higher in the combination arm compared to balloon catheter (54.4% vs. 31.1%; p < 0.01) or oral misoprostol (54.4% vs. 21.1%; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our findings confirm the effectiveness of combining balloon catheter and oral misoprostol for cervical ripening, showing shorter induction to delivery interval and comparable rates of cesarean section and neonatal outcomes compared to either method alone. These results advocate for a shift toward adopting combination strategy in the induction of nulliparous late‐ and post‐term women.
The causal relation between career calling and task performance: A three‐wave panel study
Authors: Gerdel Sophie , Dalla Rosa Anna , Duffy Ryan Daniel , Vianello Michelangelo
Published: December 2024

Work as a calling theory predicts that perceiving and living out a calling lead to higher task performance, and empirical evidence supports the assumption that perceiving a calling is related to task performance. Yet, the longitudinal precedence between career calling and task performance has not been investigated. This study examines the temporal relationship between career calling and self‐rated task performance using a three‐wave longitudinal design with 285 US employees. Findings from a cross‐lagged panel model analysis indicate that self‐rated task performance predicts career calling more strongly than the reverse. These results suggest that self‐rated task performance outcomes may drive the development of a career calling, challenging traditional assumptions. The study's implications highlight the importance of performance feedback in cultivating employees' sense of purpose and calling. Future research should explore the boundary conditions of this relationship and consider various performance metrics.
Self‐concept clarity and envy as mediators between upward social comparison on social networking sites and subjective well‐being
Authors: Niu Xiang , Gou Li‐Xing , Han Ying , Zhou Xuan , Wang Jin‐Liang
Published: December 2024

The popularity of social networking sites increases opportunities for upward social comparison, potentially affecting individuals' subjective well‐being. However, research on how this comparison impacts well‐being's sub‐components (i.e., positive affect, negative affect, and life satisfaction) is scarce. This study, based on social comparison theory and the full theoretical construct of subjective well‐being, explores these relationships and their mechanisms. A total of 970 Chinese youth participants (Mage = 19.42 years, SD = 2.01) completed self‐report measures. The results showed that the independent mediating effect of envy and the chain mediating effect of self‐concept clarity and envy contributed to all three models. In addition, the independent mediating effect of self‐concept clarity only contributed to the model for negative affect. This study emphasizes that the construct of envy mediates the effect of upward social comparison on the sub‐components of subjective well‐being and further demonstrates a strong impact of upward social comparison on negative affect.
The unrecognized potential of potential‐based achievement goals
Authors: Tempelaar Dirk
Published: December 2024

Background

For over a decade, growth‐oriented achievement goal constructs like potential‐based goals and personal best goals have remained relatively unnoticed. This empirical study aims to highlight that goal theorists might be limiting themselves by not incorporating potential‐based goals into their frameworks.

Aims

The primary objective of this research was to underscore the significant yet underappreciated role of potential‐based goals in empirical studies within the 3 × 2 achievement goal framework.

Samples

The sample comprises 10,079 international undergraduate students from a Dutch university, drawn from nine cohorts spanning academic years from 2015/2016 to 2023/2024.

Methods

To validate the eight‐factor measurement model of achievement goals, we employed first and second‐order confirmatory factor analyses. Correlational analysis and structural equation models were utilized to explore the relationships between achievement goal measures, various learning dispositions, and academic performance.

Results

Our analysis shows that all eight goal constructs clearly distinguish and confirm both first‐order and second‐order factor analysis models based on approach and avoidance factors. Further analyses include obtaining correlations and structural equation prediction models, where goal setting facets predict learning mindsets, such as intelligence theories, effort beliefs, autonomous and controlled regulation, motivation, engagement, learning approaches, and performance strategies.

Conclusions

Within a system of criterion‐referenced grading of courses, our findings indicate that potential‐based goals play a pivotal role in exploring relationships with other learning dispositions and predicting performance. It is therefore imperative to incorporate these goals into our measurement instruments for goal frameworks, even if it means prioritizing them over other types of intrapersonal goals.