bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing virtual political campaigns with traditional political campaigns: evidence from Kuwait during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Alhaimer Rashed
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This study aims to focus on how virtual campaigns are affecting voters in the elections of Kuwait, as well as whether such virtual campaigns will replace traditional campaigns in the post-COVID era.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative research adopts a purposeful sample when selecting participants from candidates and the managers of electoral campaigns in Kuwait. Fifteen participants were selected, which has been sufficient to achieve data saturation, and then, textual data were collected via semistructured interviews from 15 candidates and the managers of electoral campaigns in Kuwait during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Findings

The findings indicate that candidates preferred using virtual campaigns which enabled them to reach voters during the time of COVID-19’s lockdown. Majority of responses underlined that social media platforms do direct political messages to the voters. Hence, social media platforms should be perceived as preferred medium for communicating with supporters, especially in the post-COVID-19 era. However, some responses uphold the importance of keeping traditional political campaigns due to the peculiar nature of the Kuwaiti community where there is a need for socialization and meeting face-to-face with voters.

Originality/value

This research provides a new evaluation about the role of virtual political campaigns in Kuwait. It highlights the crucial and increasing role of virtual political campaigns in attracting voters; nevertheless, it found that virtual campaigns should be used as addendum to conventional political campaigns in the post-COVID-19 era in Kuwait.
Marketing of electronic resources by universities and colleges in Tanzania
Authors: Muneja Paul Samwel
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate Web-based tools that are potentially used by universities and college libraries to market e-resources in Tanzania.

Design/methodology/approach

This study evaluated Web-based tools that are potentially used to market e-resources in libraries in Tanzania. A sample of 52 universities and colleges was approved by Tanzania Commission for Universities and was purposively selected for this study. The evaluation was conducted with an established checklist to evaluate the websites with a view to identifying Web-based tools, which are potentially useful in marketing e-resources.

Findings

The finding of this study indicates that most libraries have websites linked to their institutional websites. The finding has revealed that social media are mostly used by public universities to market e-resources. However, only one university is using WhatsApp to communicate with patrons. The findings show that the majority of public university libraries display a list of e-resources on their websites. Moreover, the displayed e-resources of most websites are not up to date, and some of them are irrelevant. Also, most public universities provide guidelines on how to use the subscribed e-resources as opposed to their counterpart.

Originality/value

The study on the evaluation of Web-based e-resources marketing tools is new in Tanzania. The finding of this study will trigger efforts to adjust the way libraries market their e-resources online.
Identifying core “responsible leadership” practices for SME restaurants
Authors: Castañeda García José Alberto , Rey Pino Juan Miguel , Elkhwesky Zakaria , Salem Islam Elbayoumi
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to identify the core responsible leadership (RL) practices that are most relevant to small- and medium-sized enterprises (SME) restaurants. Furthermore, the authors adapt scales to measure these practices and conduct a pilot study to evaluate their impact on business performance in such establishments.

Design/methodology/approach

Exploratory sequential mixed methods are used to fulfill the research aims. In the first phase, a set of definitions and practices associated with RL are derived from a systematic literature review. Second, a projective method of data collection is applied, involving a panel of 16 experts. Third, a fuzzy cognitive map is developed, which captures the responses of 40 owners or general managers of SME restaurants.

Findings

Twenty-five practices are identified from the systematic literature review. The results show the five leadership practices that match the order of importance assigned by the experts: societal orientation, ethics, stakeholder involvement, power-sharing and environmental orientation. The relevance of those five practices is validated to explain SME restaurants’ financial performance and innovation performance.

Practical implications

Innovation is the key to advancing business sustainability and resilience, and the results identify the specific RL practices that enable improvements to be made in innovation performance among SME restaurants.

Originality/value

This paper identifies the RL practices that are particularly relevant to the tourism field (specifically, the restaurant industry), offers measurement scales for those practices and provides empirical evidence of the relationship between these RL practices and business performance in SME restaurants.
Implementing a customised Lean Six Sigma methodology at a compound animal feed manufacturer in Ireland
Authors: Trubetskaya Anna , McDermott Olivia , Brophy Padraig
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This study aims to propose a tailored Lean Six Sigma framework providing an accessible Lean Six Sigma methodology for compound feed manufacturers with the aim of mitigating rising costs and increasingly complex demands from customers.

Design/methodology/approach

A Lean Six Sigma framework was designed combining Lean value stream mapping and Six Sigma structured problem-solving with a case study in an Irish compound feed manufacturer.

Findings

The study found that the Lean Six Sigma implementation framework provided a simplified approach, which fitted the resource availability within compound feed manufacturing.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited by the constraints of a sole case study in providing empirical evidence of the effectiveness of the framework. Nevertheless, a conceptual Lean Six Sigma model is proposed, which will assist compound feed manufacturers implementing a continuous improvement approach.

Originality/value

This paper proposes a simplified approach to the implementation of Lean Six Sigma in agricultural compound feed manufacturers and in small and medium-sized organisations. This is the first such study in Ireland and will add to the body of work on Lean in agriculture and aid other agri-businesses and compound feed manufacturers in understanding how Lean Six Sigma can benefit.
Dependence structure, relational mechanisms and performance: teasing out the differences between upstream and downstream supply chain partners
Authors: Pu Xiaodie , Cai Zhao , Chong Alain Yee Loong , Paulraj Antony
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Firms are subject to power from both upstream and downstream partners; those partners may have different or even opposing impacts on supply chain relationships and financial performance. The purpose of this study is to investigate how upstream and downstream dependence structures affect a firm's financial performance through upstream and downstream relational depth (DEP) and relationship extendedness (EXT).

Design/methodology/approach

Data representing both upstream and downstream supply chain perspectives was collected using a multiple-respondent survey and was further augmented using financial performance data from an archival database.

Findings

Dependence advantages (ADVs) and disadvantages from upstream and downstream partners affect relational mechanisms and firm performance differently. Only downstream ADV will enhance a firm's DEP and EXT and subsequently affect firm's revenue and profit. Contradictory to widely held belief, the results reveal that firms that maintain long-term relationships with buyers and suppliers may experience lower revenue/profit.

Originality/value

This research represents a significant step in understanding the economic ramifications of dependence by (1) highlighting the difference between upstream and downstream supply chain dependence structure and (2) understanding the indirect effects of dependence structure on financial performance.
Hybrid work for small businesses: strategies for reaping benefits
Authors: Benedic Michael
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to explore how small businesses can strategically leverage hybrid work to strengthen the satisfaction of their employees and managers, their attractiveness, and ultimately their competitiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

Single case study: MANAG+ (pseudonym), a small consulting firm specialized in change management. Following the health crisis and the implementation of remote work, the company has maintained a hybrid work organization and developed management practices that allow it to reap many benefits. This case can be used as a successful example for small companies.

Findings

This paper highlights strategic stakes and specific difficulties of working in hybrid mode for small businesses. It provides, through a case study, a framework and solutions to overcome these challenges.

Research limitations/implications

The research is based on a single case study. Further research should be conducted to establish the generalization of the results on this little-addressed issue.

Practical implications

The research provides a unique approach that can be practically implemented within small enterprises to develop their hybrid management capabilities (best practices and insights for managerial support schemes in a hybrid working context).

Originality/value

In small companies, the challenges of hybrid work are the strongest in terms of sustainability and competitiveness. But this type of company still receives very little attention from researchers. This paper helps to bridge that current gap.
Can retained knowledge from business schools make better enterprising communities? Evidence from transition economies
Authors: Gagica Kumrije , Xhemaili Sejdi
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper was to explore how retained knowledge from degrees in business administration or management served entrepreneurs in building up successful enterprises in a high environmental turbulence and competitive condition in the region.

Design/methodology/approach

The survey was conducted in the country of Northern Macedonia and Kosovo, targeting only owners of the enterprises in any of the business sectors. The sample consisted of 400 respondents. Data obtained was analyzed using descriptive statistics, reliability measures and Pearson correlation coefficient using SPSS.

Findings

Main findings reveal strong positive relationship between knowledge gained at formal learning on promotion of organization’s positive image and an appreciation of the human resources contribution within organization; entrepreneurs who promote organization’s positive image are found to be effective negotiators, which develop sustainable and respectful relationships with business partners. Finally, strong positive correlation is found between the entrepreneurs who are able to control their emotions at any given situation, and avoid making a sudden decision, during a highly emotional moment.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research is among the first research that explores the power of degrees in business administration/management and career development as entrepreneurs and how these relationships influenced individuals’ learning and affect behavior at workplace in transition communities, such as Kosovo and North Macedonia.
Aspect-based sentiment analysis on online customer reviews: a case study of technology-supported hotels
Authors: Özen İbrahim Akın , Özgül Katlav Eda
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine the satisfaction of the guests who stay at hotels offering technology-supported products and services related to the services and products they receive by using the opinion mining technique.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research, 12,396 customer reviews on booking.com related to ten hotels belonging to a hotel chain using technology-supported products were evaluated with aspect-based sentiment analysis techniques.

Findings

As a result of this study, it has been determined that using technology in hotel businesses creates a positive impression on customer satisfaction. It has been determined that the enrichment of standard hotel business products such as beds and room lighting with technology, in a way that will not be very costly, affects the guests. In addition, it is interesting that technological features such as robots and room service robots, which are called “High & Technology” in this study, are evaluated by customers in the service process.

Practical implications

The hotel managements have the opportunity to evaluate the services we offer by analyzing their online comments and to see their own image from the eyes of the guests. Hotel businesses must learn about customer expectations for technologies with high investment costs. This study, which analyzes online customer reviews, enables tourism businesses that offer technology-supported products and services and invest in technology in service delivery, to understand how customers evaluate the service.

Originality/value

In this study, customer reviews of a hotel group operating in many countries belonging to a hotel group that enriches its standard products with technology and provides service with the concept of a “smart hotel” were examined. This study contributes to the understanding of customers' experience of using technological products in hotel businesses. This study contributes to the literature on customers' satisfaction with technological hotel products and services and the decision of hotels to invest in technology.
Acculturation, religiosity, and willingness to accept Korean products among Muslim consumers: an exploratory study
Authors: Nasution Reza Ashari , Jeong So Won , Jin Byoungho Ellie , Chung Jae-Eun , Yang Heesoon , Nathan Robert Jeyakumar , Arnita Devi
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the acculturation caused by the Korean wave among Indonesian Muslim consumers, especially in the food and cosmetic sectors, based on religious grounds.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through focus group interviews with 20 Muslim respondents in Indonesia.

Findings

The findings specifically highlighted that Muslim consumers’ acceptance of Korean products varied. Muslim consumers’ acceptance was influenced by similarities and differences in values between Islamic and Korean cultures. Consumers categorised into each acculturation mode (assimilation, separation, integration and marginalisation) showed different behavioural patterns in Korean product acceptance. This study proposes that global products can be optimised through specific and targeted marketing campaigns for different types of Muslim consumers with products that comply with their religious values.

Originality/value

Few studies have explored the importance of religious values (e.g. righteousness, compassion and respect for others) with respect to the acceptance of foreign products in the acculturation context. Additionally, how values from other cultures reconcile with the Indonesian Muslims’ affinity for Korean culture has been limitedly studied. This study aims to fill these gaps by identifying the role of religious factors in the acceptance of global products by taking the example of Indonesian Muslim consumers and Korean products.
Exploring the impact of digital knowledge management on technostress and sustainability
Authors: Martínez-Navalón Juan Gabriel , Gelashvili Vera , DeMatos Nelson , Herrera-Enríquez Giovanni
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to assess how digital knowledge management affects technostress in workers and how that influences the organization’s sustainability. The study applied an in-depth literature review of the following concepts and dimensions, digital knowledge management (acquisition, sharing and application), technostress (techno overload, invasion, complexity, insecurity and uncertainty) and sustainability (economic, social and environmental).

Design/methodology/approach

After completing the literature review, an online questionnaire was developed and disseminated through social networks. The questionnaire had four sections: classification of the respondent, questions related to knowledge management, technostress and sustainability. The final sample comprises 454 responses. First, a descriptive analysis of the sample was carried out, and second, a structural equation model by the partial least squares–structural equation modeling method was conducted.

Findings

The results show that there is a direct and positive relationship between knowledge management and technostress. This finding means that a higher level of knowledge management of firms causes a greater level of technostress among employees. The close relationship between knowledge management and the firms’ sustainability has also been confirmed. The study results have shown that gender does not have a moderating effect on the relationships reported, as there are no significant differences.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to look at digital knowledge management, assessing both the levels of employee technostress and the sustainability achieved by their organizations. Thus, this study could serve as a basis for future research. In addition, it contributes to the scarce academic literature on technostress and digital knowledge management levels.
From incubator’s knowledge transfer to sustainability start-ups’ impact: a case study in a French support program
Authors: Lamperti Sofia , Sammut Sylvie , Courrent Jean-Marie
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Sustainability start-ups introduce business models that address current environmental and social challenges. However, to reach their mission, they need to integrate the intention of delivering such impact since their formulation. Business incubators show promise in supporting them in this process by enhancing their access to resources and knowledge during the early stage. For these reasons, this paper aims to investigate the transfer of knowledge in a support program, outlining what knowledge is transferred in the program and through which activities for encouraging the generation of sustainability start-ups’ impact.

Design/methodology/approach

The present paper is supported by a qualitative case study methodology based on primary data (interviews) and secondary data (internal and external documents) related to a French support program.

Findings

The study shows that the support program transfers explicit and tacit knowledge for encouraging the generation of sustainability impact, throughout three main phases: awareness, identification and assessment.

Research limitations/implications

The limitation concerns the analysis of a French support program and the focus on sustainability start-ups. Future research lines will study other and more traditional business incubators to confirm and possibly enrich the results.

Practical implications

The study has managerial implications for incubator managers willing to support sustainable entrepreneurship and for sustainable entrepreneurs who want to find a support program and reach their impact.

Social implications

The study shows that a sustainability orientation in business incubators can play a role in fostering sustainable development through the creation of new sustainability ventures.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to two different fields: sustainable entrepreneurship support and knowledge management in incubators.
Bibliometric analysis of Journal of Money Laundering Control: emerging trends and a way forward
Authors: Saxena Charu , Kumar Pardeep
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to provide a bibliometric analysis of the Journal of Money Laundering and Control (JMLC) from 2010 to 2021 and map its way forward.

Design/methodology/approach

A range of bibliometric techniques have been used to analyse the performance of JMLC from Volume 14 (Issue 1) to Volume 24 (Issue 4). The Scopus database has been used to analyse the documents of JMLC. A total of 294 documents are reviewed. The bibliographic data has been analysed using the software VOS viewer and R-studio (Biblioshine) to assess the trend of publications, word growth, keyword co-occurrence, citation analysis, most prolific authors and authors’ impact.

Findings

JMLC’s academic contributions, influence and impact have grown progressively. The thematic structure of the journal has evolved into six bibliographic clusters, noted as prevention of corruption due to money laundering; compliance and regulation of money laundering; customer due diligence; role of Financial Action Task Force (FATF) in the financial system of developing countries; control of terrorism and terrorist financing; and role of money laundering in the proceeds of crime.

Research limitations/implications

The constraint of this endeavour largely arises from its selection of bibliographic data being confined to Scopus.

Practical implications

The results of the study would help the current and future authors to understand the emerging themes in the field of money laundering and control. They are also going to help the editors of the journals of this domain to understand the emerging themes and how the published documents are going to contribute the society, throwing light on the controlling and compliance part of money laundering. Future research directions are provided in tackling the problem of money laundering, corruption, terrorism, crime, etc. with the help of financial intelligence, strong FATF all around the world, machine learning, Bitcoin exchange management and global knowledge management.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first objective assessment of the journal. Thus, the results of the study are useful to past and prospective authors, editorial board members, editors, readers and reviewers to gain a one-stop understanding of anti-money laundering actions through the contributions of JMLC.
In-company training in a safety-critical industry: lessons from the aircraft industry
Authors: Li Junmin , Pilz Matthias
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the in-company training according to the technologically demanding and safety-critical feature of the aircraft industry. This study addresses to the tension between the structured and the more incidental part of in-company learning in their training and learning environment.

Design/methodology/approach

Against the background of concepts of workplace learning from vocational training research and concepts of the safety management system from safety research, aircraft companies from England and Germany were visited. Data from interviews with training managers and trainees as well as non-participant observations are analysed.

Findings

The findings show that workplace vocational learning in this industry is guided by different measures to design the learning environment to prevent purely incidental and informal knowledge acquisition. However, the formalisation of informal learning process leads to a high expenditure of material, personnel and time resources. The findings show that trainers and training managers working together internationally creatively manage different training systems. The training activities are designed to convey the values of safety culture like responsibility, accuracy, transparent communication and reporting. The requirements of the safety management system are also met through the training.

Research limitations/implications

Challenges and tensions in the actual implementation of the training activities could not be identified. The people interviewed were selected by the companies, so there is a risk that certain perceptions are over-represented.

Practical implications

The results show that the safety-critical industry needs its own pedagogical approach to workplace learning, which is not based on independent work processes in the workplace. Insights can be drawn for in-company training in other safety-critical industries too. However, to enable effective in-company learning, which at the same time strengthens the safety culture of the company, many resources must be used. The companies must consider all dimensions of work from the individual level to the work structure level.

Originality/value

This paper discusses the tension between formal and informal learning and shows the specific design of this tension on the basis of a concrete industry for the specific needs of this industry. The results lead to the realisation that the general discussion about workplace learning must be viewed in a differentiated way depending on the industry.
Effectiveness of online self-leadership training on leaders’ self-leadership skills and recovery experiences
Authors: Krampitz Julia , Tenschert Julia , Furtner Marco , Simon Joachim , Glaser Jürgen
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of online self-leadership training (OSLT) in promoting leaders’ self-leadership skills and recovery experiences.

Design/methodology/approach

A non-randomized controlled trial was conducted under two conditions: a standardized seven-week OSLT (N = 43) and a control without any intervention (N = 42). All participants (N = 85) completed standardized questionnaires measuring self-reported self-leadership skills and recovery experiences. Additionally, participants in the intervention group were assigned to invite one team member each (N = 26) to assess their leaders’ pre-post self-leadership skills and pre-post leader–member exchange.

Findings

Significant interaction effects of time and group and increases in the OSLT group (t1 vs t2) in self-leadership skills (cognitive and natural reward strategies) and recovery experiences (detachment and relaxation) indicated the effectiveness of OSLT training. Significant improvements in self-leadership skills and leader–member exchange were reported by team members of leaders in the OSLT group.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study was the first to examine the effectiveness of OSLT for leaders in business contexts in a controlled before-after intervention design. The findings of this study revealed improvements in self-leadership skills and recovery experience because of OSLT.
The 4C’s of influence framework: fostering leadership development through character, competence, connection and culture
Authors: Do Victor , Maniate Jerry M. , Sultan Nabil , Sonnenberg Lyn
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the 4C's of Infuence framework and it's application to medicine and medical education. Leadership development is increasingly recognised as an integral physician skill. Competence, character, connection and culture are critical for effective influence and leadership. The theoretical framework, “The 4C’s of Influence”, integrates these four key dimensions of leadership and prioritises their longitudinal development, across the medical education learning continuum.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a clinical case-based illustrative model approach, the authors provide a practical, theoretical framework to prepare physicians and medical learners to be engaging influencers and leaders in the health-care system.

Findings

As leadership requires foundational skills and knowledge, a leader must be competent to best exert positive influence. Character-based leadership stresses development of, and commitment to, values and principles, in the face of everyday situational pressures. If competence confers the ability to do the right thing, character is the will to do it consistently. Leaders must value and build relationships, fostering connection. Building coalitions with diverse networks ensures different perspectives are integrated and valued. Connected leadership describes leaders who are inspirational, authentic, devolve decision-making, are explorers and foster high levels of engagement. To create a thriving, learning environment, culture must bring everything together, or will become the greatest barrier.

Originality/value

The framework is novel in applying concepts developed outside of medicine to the medical education context. The approach can be applied across the medical education continuum, building on existing frameworks which focus primarily on what competencies need to be taught. The 4C’s is a comprehensive framework for practically teaching the leadership for health care today.
Design and synthesis of thermosensitive target segment resin with precisely controlled distance between immobilization sites for immobilization of penicillin G acylase
Authors: Liu Yangdong , Lu Siyuan , Tu Hongyi , Zhang Boyuan , Zhao Yaqin , He Jiasheng , He Liangliang , Chen Zhenbin
Published: January 2023

Purpose

To save the economic cost and improve the performance of enterprises, this study aims to synthesize high performance immobilized penicillin G acylase (PGA) carriers with fast reaction speed, high recovery rate of enzyme activity and good reusability through corresponding theoretical guidance and experimental exploration.

Design methodology approach

A diblock resin was synthesized by reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer polymerization method using N, N-diethylacrylamide (DEA) and β-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) as functional monomers poly(N, N-diethylacrylamide)-b-poly(β-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (PDEA-b-PHEMA) was obtained, and the effect of the ratio of DEA and HEMA on the activity of PGA was investigated, and the appropriate block ratio of DEA and HEMA was obtained. After that, the competitive rate of HEMA and glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) under the carrier preparation conditions was investigated. Based on the above work, a thermosensitive resin carrier PDEA-b-PHEMA-b-P(HEMA-co-GMA) with different target distances was synthesized, and the chemical structures and molecular weight of copolymers were investigated by hydrogen NMR (1H NMR).

Findings

The lower critical solution temperature of the resin support decreases with the increase of the monomer HEMA in the random copolymerization; the catalytic performance study indicated that the response rate of the immobilized PGA is fast, and the recovery rate of the enzyme activity of the immobilized PGA varies with the distance between the targets. When the molar ratio of HEMA to GMA in the resin block is 8.15:1 [i.e. resin PDEA100-b-PHEMA10-b-P(HEMA65-co-GMA8)], the activity recovery rate of immobilized PGA can reach 50.51%, which was 15.49% higher than that of pure GMA immobilized PGA.

Originality value

This contribution provides a novel carrier for immobilizing PGA. Under the optimal molar ratio, the enzyme activity recovery could be up to 50.51%, which was 15.49% higher than that of PGA immobilized on the carrier with nonregulated distance between two immobilization sites.
Antecedents and outcomes of brand pride: moderating role of narcissism
Authors: Nandy Subarna , Sondhi Neena , Joshi Himanshu
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to draw on the appraisal theory and the theory of self-brand congruence (SBC) to study the multidimensional emotion of brand pride. It conceptualizes and validates the relationship of brand pride with SBC, brand loyalty and oppositional brand loyalty and establishes the role of narcissism as a moderator.

Design/methodology/approach

Standardized scales, including a new brand pride scale developed by the authors, were used to collect data from 522 respondents. Covariance-based structural equation modeling was used to test the conceptual model. Multi-group moderation analysis tested the differences in the proposed relationship between high and low narcissists.

Findings

Results posit brand pride as a multidimensional construct with SBC as its significant antecedent. The findings also support most hypothesized relationships between brand pride and behavioral outcomes. In addition, the study confirms the moderating effect of narcissism on the relationship between brand pride dimensions and brand loyalty and opposition brand loyalty.

Research limitations/implications

The study sample was from a developing nation – India. Similar cohorts from developing and developed countries could provide a unique cross-nation comparison.

Practical implications

The role of brand pride in impacting brand loyalty and oppositional brand loyalty has significant implications for practice. Marketing communication to inculcate brand pride among consumers will significantly impact the brand’s profitability.

Originality/value

Validation of SBC as a precursor to brand pride and the relationship of brand pride with brand loyalty and oppositional brand loyalty contributes significantly to branding theory and practice. This study also establishes narcissism as a moderator between brand pride and loyalty outcomes.
Reconstructing spatiotemporal dynamics of mixed conifer and broad‐leaved forests with a spatially explicit individual‐based dynamic vegetation model
Authors: Sato Hisashi , Shibuya Masato , Hiura Tsutom
Published: January 2023

A dynamic vegetation model was adapted to a mixed forest of deciduous broad‐leaved trees and evergreen conifers in Hokkaido, the northernmost main island of Japan, located within a transition zone between cool‐temperate and sub‐boreal forest ecosystems. In this forest, elevation and a terrestrial‐wetness index affect tree biomass and the percentage of conifers. We maximized agreement between this observed pattern and model output by calibrating parameters that control drought and excessive soil‐moisture tolerance, establishment rate, and background mortality rate. In the simulation, biomass increased as a single peak curve with simulation year, while the percentage of conifers increased until the end of 200 simulation years. The 75‐year simulated forest was most comparable to the adapted forest, consistent with the average frequency of catastrophic storm disturbances in Hokkaido. The model also reconstructed a reasonable succession pattern based on temperature and soil moisture. Therefore, the model mechanistically reconstructed the mixed forest via spatial niche segregation and succession after catastrophic disturbances. However, the model did not reconstruct the percentages of broad‐leaved trees and conifers of forests prior to the disturbance in independent validation plots, demonstrating that additional processes should be considered in future models.
Assessing the usefulness of randomised trials in obstetrics and gynaecology
Authors: van ’t Hooft Janneke , van Dijk Charlotte E. , Axfors Cathrine , Alfirevic Zarko , Oudijk Martijn A. , Khan Khalid S. , Mol Ben W. J. , Bossuyt Patrick M. , Ioannidis John P. A.
Published: January 2023

This article includes Author Insights, a video abstract available at: https://vimeo.com/785911255
Affordable de novo generation of fish mitogenomes using amplification‐free enrichment of mitochondrial DNA and deep sequencing of long fragments
Authors: Ramón‐Laca Ana , Gallego Ramón , Nichols Krista M.
Published: January 2023

Biomonitoring surveys make use of metabarcoding tools to describe the community composition. These studies match their sequencing results against public genomic databases to identify the species. However, mitochondrial genomic reference data are yet incomplete, only a few genes may be available, or the suitability of existing sequence data is suboptimal for species level resolution. Here, we present a dedicated and cost‐effective workflow with no DNA amplification for generating complete fish mitogenomes for the purpose of strengthening fish mitochondrial databases. Two different strategies using long fragment sequencing with Oxford Nanopore technology coupled with mitochondrial DNA enrichment were used. One where the enrichment is achieved by preferential isolation of mitochondria followed by DNA extraction and nuclear DNA depletion (“mitoenrichment”). A second enrichment approach takes advantage of the CRISPR Cas9 targeted scission on previously dephosphorylated DNA (“targeted mitosequencing”). The sequencing results varied between tissue, species, and integrity of the DNA. The mitoenrichment method yielded 0.17%–12.33% of sequences on target and a mean coverage ranging from 74.9 to 805‐fold. The targeted mitosequencing experiment from native genomic DNA yielded 1.83%–55% of sequences on target and a 38 to 2123‐fold mean coverage. These produced complete mitogenomes of species with homopolymeric regions, tandem repeats, and gene rearrangements. We demonstrate that deep sequencing of long fragments of native fish DNA can be achieved with low computational resources in a cost‐effective manner, opening the discovery of mitogenomes of nonmodel or understudied fish taxa to a broad range of laboratories worldwide.
Less aggressive treatment for less aggressive disease? A retrospective single‐center study of pulmonary‐limited metastases associated with colorectal cancer
Authors: Qu Wang , Sun Yongkun , Zhang Wen , Jiang Zhichao , Han Yue , Jin Jing , Xue Qi , Zhou Aiping
Published: January 2023

Objective

To explore the appropriate treatment strategies, clinical outcomes, and prognostic factors of patients with pulmonary‐limited metastases derived from colorectal cancer (CRC), usually manifested as a less aggressive course.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted in 331 CRC patients diagnosed with pulmonary‐limited metastases at a single institution between January 2011 and November 2017. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to calculate the overall survival (OS). Further analysis was conducted according to treatment modalities. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to determine potential prognostic factors influencing OS.

Results

With a median follow‐up time of 38.6 months, the median OS in all patients was 45.2 months. A total of 163 patients received intensive local treatment with a median OS of 76.4 months, whereas 168 patients received palliative systemic treatment with a median OS of 29.7 months. The median OS was 68.9 months for patients treated with radiotherapy/radiofrequency ablation, with similar efficacy compared to surgery group, whose OS had not reached yet. No survival benefits were observed from the additional targeted therapy in systemic treatment group. The prognostic analysis demonstrated unilateral/bilateral lesions, synchronous/metachronous metastases, intensive local treatment, and resection of primary lesion that were significantly associated with survival of patients.

Conclusions

Intensive local treatment alone for pulmonary lesions was associated with excellent survival in certain patients with CRC presented with metastases confined to lungs. Doublet systemic chemotherapy as the first‐line treatment also revealed satisfied efficacy and safety.
Comparison of cyclosporine and systemic corticosteroid for treating drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms syndrome: A retrospective 20‐year single‐centre study in South Korea
Authors: Kwon Hyeok‐Jin , Yoon Jung‐Ho
Published: January 2023

Background/Objectives

Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome is a potentially life‐threatening hypersensitive disorder. Cyclosporine has been indicated for adverse cutaneous drug eruptions. However, studies evaluating its clinical effectiveness in DRESS syndrome have been rare. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of cyclosporine in DRESS syndrome compared to that of systemic corticosteroids.

Methods

In the cyclosporine group, oral cyclosporine was administered twice a day for a total of 2–3 mg/kg/day for 1 week, and subsequently reduced to 1–1.5 mg/kg/day for extended treatment. In the corticosteroid group, intravenous or oral methylprednisolone was administered at 1–1.5 mg/kg/day for 1 week, with variable tapering plans. Laboratory changes before and after treatment, hospitalized days, treatment periods, and time to normalization from clinical manifestations in each group were statistically evaluated. Adverse effects of these regimens were observed during the entire treatment period.

Results

Eighty patients were enrolled in this retrospective study. The cyclosporine and corticosteroid group had 27 and 53 patients, respectively. Total leucocyte and eosinophil counts, liver enzymes, and C‐reactive proteins were significantly decreased after treatment in both groups. There were no statistically significant differences observed in hospitalized days, treatment period, and time to normalization from clinical manifestations between the two groups. The corticosteroid group experienced relatively more adverse effects than the cyclosporine group.

Conclusions

Cyclosporine was discovered to be clinically effective in DRESS syndrome and this study suggests that cyclosporine could be a feasible primary therapeutic option for DRESS syndrome.
MicroRNAs expression in semen and testis of azoospermic men
Authors: Wainstein Amit , Hassan Sarah , Barda Shimi , Lehavi Ofer , Azem Foad , Ben‐Dov Iddo Z. , Hauser Ron , Kleiman Sandra E.
Published: January 2023

Background

MicroRNAs are involved in the regulation of spermatogenesis, are detected in semen and may be useful as molecular markers for predicting residual complete spermatogenesis in azoospermic men.

Objectives

To study the biomarker potential of microRNAs that are detected in semen and testicular tissue.

Materials and methods

MicroRNA profiles were analyzed in semen fractions of normozoospermic (n = 3) and azoospermic (n = 6) men by small RNA deep sequencing. Specific microRNAs were further analyzed by reverse transcription and quantitative polymerase chain reaction in eight testicular samples and 46 semen supernatants. The semen supernatant samples included 18 normozoospermic and 28 azoospermic men with various pathologies.

Results

The sequenced microRNA profiles of semen supernatant fraction samples were distinct from the other fractions. Significant expression differences were observed between the semen supernatant of normozoospermic and azoospermic men. Further analysis by reverse transcription and quantitative polymerase chain reaction revealed that expression of miR‐202‐3p was considerably reduced (undetectable in most samples) in the azoospermic semen supernatants. The expression of miR‐202‐3p was significantly lower in the azoospermic specimens than in the normozoospermic specimens and a trend was observed for miR‐629‐5p (p = 0.03 and 0.06, respectively). Differences in expression levels in the semen supernatant were observed among the various pathologies but not to a level of significance, possibly because of the small subgroups. miRNA‐370‐3p was significantly higher in semen supernatant samples from azoospermic men without sperm cells in testis (p = 0.05). In testes, the three microRNAs were expressed at higher levels in the obstructive and spermatocyte maturation arrest pathologies than in mixed atrophy and Sertoli cell only. miR‐202‐3p was detected in all testicular samples.

Conclusions

MicroRNA expression profiles in semen were distinguishable between azoospermic and normozoospermic men. The microRNA profile also diverged among azoospermic men subdivided according to their testicular pathologies. The levels of specific microRNAs in testis and in the semen supernatant were not directly correlated.
Post cholecystectomy benign biliary stricture‐isolated hepatic duct stricture: a proposed modification of the BISMUTH classification
Authors: Rymbai Manbha L. , Paul Anoop , M. J. Aparna , Anantrao Atram Soham , John Reetu , Simon Betty , Joseph Anjilivelil J. , Raju Ravish Sanghi , Sitaram Venkatramani , Joseph Philip
Published: January 2023

Background

Post‐cholecystectomy, benign biliary strictures are challenging for both patients and surgeons. Bismuth classified benign biliary strictures into 5 types. This study aimed to review these isolated hepatic duct strictures which were not included in Bismuth classification.

Methods

The case records of all patients who presented with post‐cholecystectomy benign biliary strictures between January 2005 and December 2020 at our centre were reviewed. Data regarding demography, type of stricture, and treatment strategy were entered into the standard proforma.

Results

There were 242 patients [type I—3.7%, type II—41.7%, type III—38.0%, type IV—6.6%, and type V—7.8%]. Five (2.1%) patients did not fit the Bismuth classification and were the focus of this study. In each of these patients, an isolated hepatic duct stricture (first‐or second‐order hepatic duct) was present, with no involvement of the common hepatic duct or hilar confluence.

Conclusions

The addition of isolated hepatic duct stricture [type VI] to the Bismuth classification will enhance the original classification, help in reporting and management of this sub‐set of patients.
Formation of academic self‐concept and intrinsic value within and across three domains: Extending the reciprocal internal/external frame of reference model
Authors: Arens A. Katrin , Niepel Christoph
Published: January 2023

Background

The reciprocal internal/external frame of reference (RI/E) combines two models of academic self‐concept formation, namely the reciprocal effects model (REM) and the internal/external frame of reference (I/E) model. The REM assumes reciprocal relations between achievement and academic self‐concept. The I/E model assumes contrast effects between achievement and self‐concept across math and verbal domains. The RI/E model can be extended to more school subjects than one math and one verbal domain, and to other motivational constructs.

Aims

We examined an extended RI/E model considering achievement, academic self‐concept, and intrinsic value related to math, German and English.

Sample

The sample consisted of 1939 German secondary school students.

Methods

The three measurement waves covered Grades 5 to 7. Cross‐lagged panel models were used to analyse the data.

Results

Within domains, there were reciprocal relations between achievement and academic self‐concept but only unidirectional relations between former achievements and later intrinsic values. Across domains, there were significant negative relations between former math achievement and later self‐concepts and intrinsic values in German and English, and between former German and English achievements and later self‐concept and intrinsic value in math. These findings imply contrast effects across math and verbal domains. The pattern of relations among constructs was found to be generalizable across gender and school tracks and stable across measurement waves.

Conclusion

The study provides further support for the validity of the RI/E model and its extension to English as another school subject and intrinsic value as another motivational construct.