bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Customer perceived ethicality and electronic word of mouth approach to customer loyalty: the mediating role of customer trust
Authors: Aldulaimi Saeed , Soni Swati , Kampoowale Isha , Krishnan Gopala , Ab Yajid Mohd Shukri , Khatibi Ali , Minhas Deepak , Khurana Meenu
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Drawing from stakeholder (ST) and social exchange theory (SET), the purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between customer perceived ethicality (CPE), electronic word of mouth (eWOM), customer trust (CT) and customer loyalty (CL). Furthermore, this study aimed to understand the dual role of CPE and eWOM in obtaining CT and achieving CL.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a quantitative, cross-sectional research design, data were collected from face-to-face surveys, yielding 358 responses. The partial least square algorithm was used to test the proposed hypothesis.

Findings

The analysis revealed that CPE and eWOM positively affect CT and CL, and CT has a mediating effect on the association between CPE–CL and eWOM–CL. CT was also found to positively affect CL.

Practical implications

Hotel managers can prioritize ethical practices and leverage the power of eWOM to build trust and achieve loyalty. This integrated approach not only enhances customer satisfaction and retention but also creates a competitive advantage.

Originality/value

The novelty of this study lies in the investigation of the dual role played by CPE and eWOM as antecedents of CT and CL within the hotel industry. Finally, this study explains the drivers of CT and CL, thereby making a novel contribution to the literature.
Integration of organizational, economic and customer-related attributes to prioritize marketing strategies
Authors: Arabnarmi Bita , Kheybari Siamak , Amiri Ali Akbar Khani Soodabeh , Ishizaka Alessio
Published: August 2024

Purpose

A well-designed marketing strategy is critical for the survival of any company in today’s competitive market. To be formulated and implemented effectively, a marketing strategy must be phased and aligned to levels in the organization. This study aims to advance a three-tier hierarchical framework of marketing strategies, including corporate, business and functional levels. The authors use the proposed framework to select the most appropriate marketing strategy based on the factors relevant to a factory that produces sporting goods.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conduct a literature review to identify marketing strategies at corporate, business and functional levels. To appraise strategies at the corporate and business levels, the authors use market share as a key criterion. When evaluating functional strategies, the authors use criteria categorized into organizational, economic and customer dimensions. Additionally, the authors conduct interviews to assess strategies at the first level and use the best worst method to appraise strategies at the other two levels.

Findings

The authors use the suggested structure for a company producing sports goods in Iran. According to the results, an offensive approach and customer orientation are the most appropriate strategies at corporate and business levels. Additionally, offensive advertising and managerial capabilities are identified as the best portfolio of strategies and the most important criterion at functional level, respectively.

Originality/value

So far, a specific category of marketing strategies has not been implemented at corporate, business and functional levels. Accordingly, there is not a framework of criteria to evaluate the strategies at each level. The approach is implemented in the case of a sportswear manufacturer in a developing country, where quantitative analysis has been lacking until now.
Fault diagnosis of axial movement for harmonic drive based on deep belief network by using current data of driving servomotor
Authors: Wang Ling , Gao Jianqiu , Chen Changjun , Mei Congli , Gao Yanfeng
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Harmonic drives are used widely in aviation, robotics and instrumentation due to their benefits including high transmission ratio, compact structure and zero backlash. One of the common faults of a harmonic drive is the axial movement of the input shaft. In such a case, its input shaft moves in the axial direction relative to the body of the harmonic drive. The purpose of this study is to propose two fault diagnosis methods based on the current signal of the driving servomotor for the axial movement failure in terms of input shafts of harmonic drives.

Design/methodology/approach

In the two proposed fault diagnosis methods, the wavelet threshold algorithm is firstly used for filtering noises of the motor current signal. Then, the feature of the denoised current signal is extracted by the empirical mode decomposition (EMD) method and the wavelet packet energy-entropy (WPEE) theory, respectively, obtaining two kinds of feature sets. After a deep learning model based on the deep belief network (DBN) is constructed and trained by using these feature sets, we finally identify the normal harmonic drives and the ones with the axial movement fault.

Findings

In contrast to the traditional back propagation (BP) neural network model and support vector machine (SVM) model, the fault diagnosis methods based on the combination of the EMD (as well as the WPEE) and the DBN model can obtain higher accuracy rates of fault diagnosis for axial movement of harmonic drives, which can be greater than or equal to 97% based on the data of the performed experiment.

Originality/value

The authors propose two fault diagnosis methods based on the current signal of the driving servomotor for the axial movement failure in terms of input shafts of harmonic drives, which are verified by the experiment. The presented study may be beneficial for the development of self-diagnosis and self-repair systems of different robots and precision machines using harmonic drives.
Mapping the electric vehicle adoption scholarship for sustainability: an integrated theoretical framework and future research directions
Authors: Prakhar Prakhar , Jabeen Fauzia , Jaiswal Rachana , Gupta Shashank , Piccardi Patrice , Jose Saju
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Electric vehicle adoption (EVA) drives sustainability by significantly reducing carbon emissions and reliance on fossil fuels. Despite EVA’s notable advantages from existing literature and its evolving nature, a gap persists in evaluating EVA research. This research presents a systematic literature review, offering insights into the current state of EVA advancements.

Design/methodology/approach

This study amalgamates various factors influencing EVA and elucidates their associations, fostering sustainable transportation. To evaluate progress in this domain, we adopt the Theory-Context-Characteristics-Methodology (TCCM) framework, systematically assessing the theories, contextual factors, characteristics and methodologies employed in EVA research to support efficient decision-making.

Findings

The study reveals 18 theories, prominently including the theory of planned behavior, innovation diffusion theory, technology acceptance model and UTAUT. The study identifies diverse factors such as perceived risk, effort expectancy, social norms, performance expectancy, government policy, personal norms, attitude, perceived behavioral control, subjective norms, demographics and ecological knowledge as pivotal in shaping attitudes and intentions toward electric vehicle adoption. Furthermore, structured equation modeling emerges as the predominant methodology, while including alternative approaches enriches the methodological landscape, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the factors driving EV adoption.

Practical implications

The insights gained from this research can inform policymakers, manufacturers and researchers, ultimately contributing to the global transition towards more sustainable transportation solutions.

Originality/value

This research’s cardinal contribution lies in developing an integrated theoretical framework, a novel approach that offers a structured and holistic perspective on the multifaceted determinants of EVA. This framework not only illuminates the intricate relationships among these variables but also opens up exciting avenues for future research.
Fostering sustainability in Mexican SMEs: Understanding the interplay of institutional forces
Authors: Ahmadov Tarlan , Durst Susanne , Mendoza Lilian Albornoz , Rahman Khusbu
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the interplay between regulatory, normative and cultural-cognitive factors in the context of sustainability-driven organisational change in Mexican small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Design/methodology/approach

Using qualitative research methods, data were collected through interviews with key stakeholders from eight SMEs in Mexico. Thematic analysis was conducted to explore how regulatory, normative and cultural-cognitive forces influence sustainability initiatives within these organisations.

Findings

The findings reveal a dynamic relationship between regulatory frameworks and broader societal norms, with SMEs strategically aligning with evolving expectations to drive sustainability. Influenced by consumer preferences, normative forces play a pivotal role in shaping internal and external organisational norms. Cultural-cognitive forces, including organisational values and leadership practices, further reinforce this interplay, highlighting the importance of organisational culture in driving sustainable practices.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to understanding institutional dynamics driving sustainability initiatives among SMEs, particularly in the Mexican context. Explaining the complex interactions among regulatory, normative and cultural-cognitive forces offers a holistic framework for comprehending the complexities of sustainability-driven organisational change.

Practical implications

The findings provide practical insights for SMEs seeking to navigate sustainability initiatives. Emphasising the proactive role of regulatory compliance, fostering a culture of sustainability and leveraging collaborative opportunities within industries are recommended strategies for driving meaningful organisational change towards sustainability.

Originality/value

This study’s value lies in its development of a conceptual framework illustrating the complex interactions among regulatory, normative and cultural-cognitive forces driving sustainability-driven organisational change in Mexican SMEs. Elucidating these dynamics provides a nuanced understanding of how these forces intertwine, offering valuable insights for navigating sustainability initiatives for SMEs in Mexico.
Sustainability-oriented targets in executive compensation – symbolic measures or significant catalyst for a sustainable transition?
Authors: Hofer Alexander , Aschauer Ewald , Velte Patrick
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to analyse the motivations and underlying assumptions of decision makers driving the adoption of sustainability-oriented targets in executive compensation (SCTs) to better understand SCTs’ impact on sustainability performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a qualitative approach, 15 in-depth interviews are conducted in a two-tier governance setting. Participants include management and supervisory board members, compensation consultants and other stakeholders involved in proxy voting.

Findings

SCT implementation is primarily determined by meeting shareholders’ expectations rather than those of other stakeholders. Decision makers react in a differentiated way to increased expectations by implementing either primarily symbolic or substantive measures and encounter different implementation challenges like insufficient data quality and a lack of experience within supervisory boards, both of which potentially contribute to decoupling.

Research limitations/implications

The study offers valuable insights for companies in designing SCTs and emphasises the significance of addressing decoupling to effectively enhance sustainability performance through SCTs and provides a foundation for future studies aimed at analysing this phenomenon.

Originality/value

Using a neo-institutional theory lens, this study marks one of the first interview-based investigations to distinguish between symbolic and substantial SCTs. It delves deeply into the role of decoupling and the associated challenges, offering fresh perspectives within the under-researched framework of a two-tier corporate governance structure. Moreover, this study aims to meticulously capture the real-world design practices and implementation processes of SCTs through experts, an aspect that was emphasised as a limitation in previous studies.
Supplier connectivity: a study on how to gain supplier acceptance for the integration of digital supply chain systems
Authors: Kalesh Shikha , Kiratli-Schneider Nadine , Schiele Holger
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore factors influencing suppliers' acceptance, integration challenges, expected benefits and support from customers when implementing a customer-introduced digital supply chain system.

Design/methodology/approach

The study investigates the perspective of suppliers using a mixed methodology approach that combines qualitative interviews with a large-scale quantitative survey conducted among 220 internationally located suppliers of an automotive-industrial firm.

Findings

As a result, the authors identified 11 factors that drive suppliers' acceptance of customer-introduced digital supply chain systems. These factors have been ranked based on their importance. The top three important factors identified were the digital system being provided at no cost to the suppliers, the system's ability to save time and the system offering benefits to the suppliers.

Research limitations/implications

Further research can be conducted to validate the perspective of suppliers in other industries. Additionally, future studies can investigate the effectiveness of fulfilling these acceptance factors within an actual digital integration setup.

Practical implications

Companies can leverage these insights to accelerate their digital supply chain integration efforts. The insights on acceptance factors, challenges, benefits and support expected by suppliers can serve as a valuable guide for policy and decision makers within the industry.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is among the first to investigate the perspective of suppliers in the integration of a customer's digital supply chain. By including the supplier's perspective, this study makes a significant contribution to the academic literature about supply chain digitalisation.
Is it all about size? Dismantling the integrated phenotype to understand species coexistence and niche segregation
Authors: Reyes‐Puig Carolina , Enriquez‐Urzelai Urtzi , Carretero Miguel A. , Kaliontzopoulou Antigoni
Published: August 2024

Niche segregation is a mechanism by which competition between coexisting species is reduced. The ecological niche is a multidimensional space shaped by the conditions and resources that enable the existence of species.

We conducted comprehensive univariate and multidimensional analyses of phenotypic traits encompassing morphology, functional performance and ecophysiology, to investigate which phenotypic traits contribute to niche segregation and overlap in two coexisting green lizard species.

Our analyses revealed that the main driver of niche segregation was body size. However, when considering size‐corrected phenotypic spaces, ecophysiological traits were still distinct, with little overlap between co‐occurring species. Such differentiation was linked mainly to preferred temperature variance and water loss, highlighting the importance of thermal and hydric niche segregation.

Some particular traits such as limb length also contributed to niche segregation being maintained in the morphological space, even when the effect of size was accounted for. Instead, the phenotypic space of functional performance traits (i.e. bite force, locomotor performance) showed the greatest overlap between the two species, thus, less niche segregation was observed, once size effects were removed. Therefore, functional performance traits contribute in a minor proportion to the effective niche segregation between the two species. In light of our results, the most adequate perspective to understand niche segregation in coexisting species is through a multidimensional approach in differentiated phenotypic spaces. Our dismantling of phenotypic traits allowed us to identify niche areas in which trait overlap occurs and others that promote niche segregation, considering or not size effects.

Our results suggest that differential use of structural and functional niche space promotes effective niche segregation, potentially reducing direct competition between species. We highlight the importance of studies that include the combination of several phenotypic traits that, as a whole, provide insights to better understand the mechanisms by which coexisting organisms exploit differentiated resources in multidimensional spaces.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Wave attenuation by intertidal vegetation is mediated by trade‐offs between shoot‐ and canopy‐scale plant traits
Authors: Schoutens Ken , Silinski Alexandra , Belliard Jean‐Philippe , Bouma Tjeerd J. , Temmerman Stijn , Schoelynck Jonas
Published: August 2024

Nature‐based solutions, through conservation or (re)creation of vegetated shorelines, are recognized to mitigate the impact of waves and erosion risks on shorelines. Wave attenuation is known to be dependent on plant traits, resulting in increasing wave attenuation rates with increasing shoot density, shoot thickness, height, and stiffness. However, following the allometric scaling theory, we hypothesize that increasing shoot density (a canopy‐scale trait) may be associated with decreasing shoot thickness and stiffness (a shoot‐scale trait), with potential opposing effects on overall wave attenuation.

This study investigates (1) the presence of such allometric relations across intertidal shore plant species via existing literature and (2) the trade‐off effects on the overall wave attenuation capacity of shore vegetation through a flume experiment.

Our results reveal for the first time the presence of allometric relationships between shoot‐scale and canopy‐scale plant properties in perennial intertidal plant species. Across different species, increasing shoot densities are indeed associated with decreasing shoot thickness and shoot stiffness.

Next, we performed a wave flume experiment with plant mimics, showing that wave attenuation rate follows a logarithmic increase with increasing shoot density, even though the increasing shoot density was associated with thinner and more flexible individual shoots.

Synthesis and applications. We conclude that wave attenuation is predominantly governed by canopy‐scale properties, but a trade‐off with shoot‐scale properties mediates the overall wave attenuation capacity of the vegetated shore. Our findings imply that nature‐based projects (re‐)creating vegetated shorelines should account for potential trade‐off effects of species‐specific plant traits at the canopy scale and individual shoot scale.
Grassland nature reserves safeguard a high species richness and biomass of grasshoppers
Authors: Poniatowski Dominik , Weißgräber Valentina , Drung Marco , Freienstein Felix Maximilian , Kettermann Marcel , Scherer Gwydion , Fartmann Thomas
Published: August 2024

In the course of land‐use change, especially since the mid‐20th century, the area of semi‐natural (unimproved) grasslands has dramatically decreased. One way to counteract this process is to designate nature reserves. However, the effectiveness of nature reserves is controversial.

The aim of our study was to evaluate the environmental drivers of species richness and biomass of Orthoptera (hereinafter termed ‘grasshoppers’) in grasslands inside nature reserves and within the intensively used agriculture landscape (hereinafter termed ‘wider countryside’). For this purpose, we sampled the grasshoppers at the landscape scale in 45 randomly selected plots. Each plot had a size of 5 ha. The abundance of grasshoppers, as a basis for the biomass calculation, was recorded at the habitat scale in 20 meadow patches (500 m2 each). In addition, various environmental parameters such as habitat diversity, mowing intensity and vegetation structure were determined at the landscape and habitat scale.

Our results illustrate the importance of nature reserves for the conservation of grasshoppers. Control plots in the wider countryside harboured fewer species than plots within nature reserves. The differences were even clearer among threatened species. On average, plots in nature reserves had almost twice as many threatened species than control plots in the wider countryside. The comparison revealed similar patterns at the habitat scale: both the number of species and biomass were higher in nature reserves. At the landscape scale, number of species were best explained by the amount of wet grassland and habitat diversity. We identified mowing intensity and to a lower extend the degree of drainage as the key drivers of species richness and biomass at the habitat scale.

Synthesis and applications: To preserve biodiversity in nature reserves, we recommend (i) leaving uncut refuges during mowing and (ii) blocking drainage to stabilise the water level. Both measures contribute to a high species number and abundance of grasshoppers and many other insects. An effective conservation measure to promote species richness in the wider countryside would be to increase habitat diversity. This can be done by creating or restoring fallow islands, field margins, fringes and hedgerows.
Judy Yates and Housing Economics
Authors: Meen Geoffrey , Whitehead Christine
Published: August 2024

This editorial captures the history of immense contributions that Judy Yates AM has made to the discipline of housing economics. It traces her legacy and combines notes of personal appreciation by two international colleagues that Judy worked closely with during her lifetime.
Daily change of peritoneal ultrafiltration volume in patients with hybrid dialysis
Authors: Toda Naohiro , Komiya Toshiyuki , Ishii Akira , Mori Keita P. , Sugitani Seita , Yanagita Motoko , Yokoi Hideki
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Hybrid dialysis is widely used in Japan. Although previous reports have shown the beneficial effects of hybrid dialysis, little is known about the daily change in peritoneal ultrafiltration volume in hybrid dialysis.

Methods

A multicenter, cross‐sectional study was conducted in 25 patients with hybrid dialysis. The primary outcome measure was the change in peritoneal ultrafiltration volume between after HD and before HD, according to PD prescription and PD holiday. The secondary outcome measure was the correlation between the difference in ultrafiltration volume and each factor.

Results

The total ultrafiltration volume and the ultrafiltration volume of glucose dialysate after HD increased from 970 ± 408 to 1151 ± 480 (p < 0.01) and from 576 ± 392 to 750 ± 517 (p < 0.01), respectively, compared with before HD. In contrast, the ultrafiltration volume of icodextrin dialysate did not change (from 470 ± 204 to 494 ± 242, p = 0.40). The difference in total ultrafiltration volume was correlated with the difference in glucose dialysate ultrafiltration volume and hybrid duration, but not with the difference in icodextrin dialysate ultrafiltration volume and peritoneal dialysis duration.

Conclusion

This study showed that the peritoneal ultrafiltration volume for glucose dialysate increased after HD compared with before HD in patients with hybrid dialysis, whereas that for icodextrin dialysate did not change.
An economic evaluation on sub‐optimal breastfeeding in Hong Kong: Infant health outcomes and costs
Authors: Hui Lai Ling , Liao Emily , Yeung Karene Hoi Ting , Wong Carlos K. H. , Loganathan Tharani , Nelson Edmund Anthony S.
Published: August 2024

Aim

This study estimated the healthcare cost savings for the government due to the prevention of gastroenteritis (GE) infections and lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) in the first year of life, attributed to an increase in the exclusive breastfeeding rate at 4 months in Hong Kong.

Methods

The model used the best available data inputs, with uncertainty considered using probabilistic sensitivity analysis. We additionally assessed the impact of neonatal jaundice (NNJ) on the economic benefits of increasing exclusive breastfeeding rates.

Results

During 2010–2019, five admissions for GE and three admissions for LRTI per 1000 births would have been prevented in the first year of life if the exclusive breastfeeding rate at 4 months increased from the actual levels (~15–30%) to 50%, resulting in annual healthcare cost savings of USD1.05 (95% CI 1.03–1.07) million/year. The cost saving would reach USD1.89 (95% CI 1.86–1.92) million/year if the exclusive breastfeeding rate at 4 months increase to 70%. However, if higher NNJ admissions during 7–90 days related to more exclusive breastfeeding are considered, the cost saving would reduce by 60%.

Conclusion

Our findings can guide policymakers in allocating budget and resources for breastfeeding promotion in Hong Kong. The prevention of unnecessary NNJ admissions would maximise the economic benefits of exclusive breastfeeding at 4 months.
Crafting for autonomy, competence, and relatedness: A self‐determination theory model of need crafting at work
Authors: Olafsen Anja H. , Marescaux Baptiste P. C. , Kujanpää Miika
Published: August 2024

With the purpose of extending job crafting theory, the current article outlines a comprehensive conceptual model of work‐related need crafting grounded in self‐determination theory—the Self‐Determination Theory Model of Need Crafting at Work. Specifically, by taking as our basis the three basic psychological needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness, we introduce the concept of work‐related need crafting and outline its underlying cognitive and behavioral components. We also theorize how cognitive and behavioral forms of need crafting are related and how cognitive and behavioral need crafting foster well‐being and optimal functioning by enhancing need satisfaction and reducing need frustration. Finally, we outline a reciprocal relation between need crafting practices and the experience of basic psychological needs, and thereby depict how need crafting and basic psychological needs develop over time. In sum, the Self‐determination Theory Model of Need Crafting at Work provides a theory‐based framework relevant for covering a wide breadth of different need crafting practices that have the potential to significantly advance future research on job crafting for the benefit of both employees and organizations.
Letter: Algorithmic NIT approaches to identify advanced liver fibrosis in patients with MASLD
Authors: Wang Jian , Pan Yifan , Xiong Ye , Wu Chao , Huang Rui
Published: August 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to McPherson et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18061 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18215
Letter: Enhancing patient support through social work—Addressing economic challenges and medication non‐adherence in liver disease management
Authors: Wu Min , Liu Dong
Published: August 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Kim et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18122
Comparison of perioperative bleeding risk between direct oral anticoagulants in transurethral resection of prostate
Authors: Kuo Lu Yu , Kuo Jenny , Silverman Joshua , Kim Jason Jae Yeun , Letch Caitlin , McClintock Scott
Published: August 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the perioperative morbidity and mortality associated with direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) and warfarin for patients receiving transurethral resection of prostate (TURP).

Patients and Methods

This was a single‐centre, retrospective cohort analysis of patients who underwent TURP for benign prostate hyperplasia from April 2019 to December 2023. The primary objective was to evaluate the perioperative bleeding and thromboembolic risk between anticoagulated (AC) vs no‐AC patients. The secondary objective was to evaluate perioperative bleeding and thromboembolic risk between different formulations of DOACs. Patient demographics, prior treatment, prostate size, baseline bleeding risk, and operative details were collected. Bleeding and thromboembolic‐related morbidity were captured within a 3‐month postoperative period. Perioperative management of AC therapy was recorded, and all patients had their AC therapy withheld. Cohort characteristic between the AC vs no‐AC, and DOAC groups were analysed with two‐sided t‐test, and chi‐square test. Further logistic regression analyses were carried out to identified significant variables between the groups. These significant variables were used for adjustment in inverse probability‐weighted treatment effect analysis to evaluate bleeding risk.

Results

There were 629 patients in the cohort, and 113 (18%) patients were receiving AC therapy. The AC patients were at 1.6 times statistically significant increased risk of acute bleeding, and 11 times increased risk of prolonged haematuria for >14 days. When compared to apixaban, patients on rivaroxaban conferred a statistically significant increased risk of acute bleeding by 2.21 times. Patients receiving AC therapy had a statistically significant increased risk of stroke in the perioperative setting (no‐AC vs AC: 0.4% vs 2.7%, P = 0.01).

Conclusion

This is the first study to evaluate risk of bleeding for TURP patients receiving DOACs. The AC patients are more likely to experience haematuria and stroke in the perioperative period despite withholding therapy. Apixaban appears to cause less bleeding‐related complications than rivaroxaban.
A case of NONO::TFE3 cutaneous epithelioid and spindle cell tumor with local recurrence after complete excision
Authors: Durgin Joseph S. , Smith Emily H. , Harms Paul W. , Brown Noah A. , Chan May P.
Published: August 2024

Mesenchymal tumors may display morphologic and immunohistochemical overlap with melanocytic tumors, presenting a pitfall for misdiagnosis. We report a 62‐year‐old woman who presented with a recurrent dermal and subcutaneous tumor over the Achilles tendon 15 years following complete excision. Both the primary and the recurrent tumors were characterized by nests and sheets of epithelioid and spindle cells with eosinophilic cytoplasm and uniform ovoid nuclei. The tumor was positive for S100, SOX10, HMB45, cathepsin K, and p63 (weak), while negative for Melan‐A, MiTF, smooth muscle actin, and desmin. Gene fusion analysis of the recurrent tumor revealed a NONO::TFE3 fusion which has been recently reported in two similar cutaneous cases. Our case highlights the potential of a NONO::TFE3 cutaneous epithelioid and spindle cell tumor to recur after a prolonged disease‐free interval without evidence of high‐grade transformation or distant metastasis. Our findings support its classification as a cutaneous mesenchymal neoplasm of intermediate malignancy.
Effect of combining aminomethacrylate and fluoride against erosive and abrasive challenges on enamel and dentin
Authors: Augusto Marina Gullo , da Silva Luis Felipe Oliveira , Lotto Giovanna , Santos Tamires Maria de Andrade , Aoki Idalina Vieira , Torres Carlos Rocha Gomes , Scaramucci Tais , Borges Alessandra Bühler
Published: August 2024

This study evaluated the effect of solutions containing aminomethacrylate copolymer (AA) and sodium fluoride (F; 225 ppm F−) or fluoride plus stannous chloride (FSn; 225 ppm F−, 800 ppm Sn2+) against enamel and dentin erosion/abrasion. Solutions F, FSn, AA, F+AA, FSn+AA, and deionized water as negative control were tested. Bovine enamel and dentin specimens (n = 13/solution/substrate) underwent a set of erosion‐abrasion cycles (0.3% citric acid [5 min, 4×/day], human saliva [1 h, 4×/day], brushing [15 s, 2×/day], and treatments [2 min, 2×/day]) for each of five days. Initial enamel erosion was evaluated using Knoop microhardness after the first and second acid challenge on day 1, and surface loss with profilometry after day 5. KOH‐soluble fluoride was assessed. Data were analyzed with ANOVA/Tukey tests. The combination of fluoride and AA resulted in higher protection against enamel erosion, whereas this was not the case for the combination of AA and FSn. All treatments protected against enamel and dentin loss. The lowest surface loss values were observed with F+AA and FSn+AA. The polymer did not significantly influence the KOH‐soluble fluoride formation on enamel/dentin specimens. The aminomethacrylate copolymer effectively enhanced the efficacy of sodium fluoride against initial erosion and improved the control of enamel and dentin wear of F and FSn solutions.
Assessment of fracture criteria for cracking behavior of asphalt concrete using various SCB specimen sizes
Authors: Momeni Ramin , Pirmohammad Sadjad
Published: August 2024

In this research, five fracture criteria (maximum tangential stress (MTS), generalized maximum tangential stress (GMTS), minimum strain energy density (SED), generalized minimum strain energy density (GSED), and modified maximum tangential stress (MMTS)) were evaluated for asphalt concrete using fracture data from tests conducted under various loading modes and conditions. Tests were performed on semi‐circular bend (SCB) specimens of various sizes. Based on the results, the MTS criterion tends to overestimate fractures, while the GMTS criterion exhibits more precise predictions. The SED and GSED criteria inaccurately predict fractures, especially under certain loading conditions. The MMTS criterion shows superior predictive capability for asphalt concrete fractures. Specimen size influences fracture resistance, with larger specimens exhibiting higher fracture values. Overall, the MMTS criterion closely mirrors the crack growth behavior of asphalt concrete, highlighting its precision in predicting fracture results. The errors between the predictions of the fracture criteria MTS, GMTS, SED, GSED, and MMTS, and the experimental results ranged from 0% to 42.8%, 0% to 22.5%, 0% to 52.7%, 0% to 42.4%, and 0% to 14.5%, respectively.
A spot weld element formulation and implementation for mesh‐insensitive fatigue evaluation of lightweight structures
Authors: Zhang Lunyu , Wu Shengjia , Dong Pingsha
Published: August 2024

With the rising importance of virtual engineering in an increasingly competitive marketplace, there is a growing need for simplified representations of finite element (FE) modeling for spot joints in lightweight structures without losing accuracy in structural life evaluation. For this purpose, this paper presents a spot weld element with an implicit weld representation and its numerical implementation as a user element for deployment in commercial FE code for reliably computing traction structural stress in a mesh‐insensitive manner. The spot weld element is formulated by degenerating conventional first‐order four‐nodes shell elements by imposing kinematic constraints with respect to a series of virtual nodes placed in the region around a spot weld. The simplicity and effectiveness of the spot weld element have been validated by comparing with the explicit weld representation for computing mesh‐insensitive structural stresses and fatigue life correlation of welded components.
Normalized difference vegetation index analysis reveals increase of biomass production and stability during the conversion from conventional to organic farming
Authors: Serrano‐Grijalva Lilia , Ochoa‐Hueso Raúl , Veen G. F. (Ciska) , Repeto‐Deudero Irene , Van Rijssel Sophie Q. , Koorneef Guusje J. , Van der Putten Wim H.
Published: August 2024

Monitoring agriculture by remote sensing enables large‐scale evaluation of biomass production across space and time. The normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) is used as a proxy for green biomass. Here, we used satellite‐derived NDVI of arable farms in the Netherlands to evaluate changes in biomass following conversion from conventional to organic farming. We compared NDVI and the stability of NDVI across 72 fields on sand and marine clay soils. Thirty‐six of these fields had been converted into organic agriculture between 0 and 50 years ago (with 2017 as reference year), while the other 36 were paired control fields where conventional farming continued. We used high‐resolution images from the Sentinel‐2 satellite to obtain NDVI estimates across 5 years (January 2016–October 2020). Overall, NDVI did not differ between conventional and organic management during the time series, but NDVI stability was significantly higher under organic management. NDVI was lower under organic management in sandy, but not in clay, soils. Organic farms that had been converted less than ~19 years ago had lower NDVI than conventional farms. However, the difference diminished over time and eventually turned positive after ~19 years since the conversion. NDVI, averaged across the 5 years of study, was positively correlated to soil Olsen‐P measured from soil samples collected in 2017. We conclude that NDVI in organic fields was more stable than in conventional fields, and that the lower biomass in the early years since the transition to organic agriculture can be overcome with time. Our study also indicates the role of soil P bioavailability for plant biomass production across the examined fields, and the benefit of combining remote sensing with on‐site soil measurements to develop a more mechanistic understanding that may help us navigate the transition to a more sustainable type of agriculture.
Digital platforms for (female) domestic workers in Chile: Precarization, invisibilization, and mercantilization
Authors: Rodríguez‐Covarrubias Natalie , Álvarez‐Figueroa Francisca
Published: August 2024

Digital platforms for Domestic Workers (DW) are widespread, entailing work management and employment challenges. In Chile, DW has inherited colonial and class dynamics that are still present. Besides, this role has shown a significant occupation rate where one out of 10 women is DW; from this, one of every three are migrants. This study aims to analyze digital platforms for DW in Chile critically. For this, following Fairclough's model (1989), we develop a Critical Discourse Analysis through the micro (textual), meso (production), and macro (Sociocultural) levels in three Chilean digital platforms for DW. The results expose how the platforms are organized and how the DW as a subject is conceived. In this sense, personal characteristics, such as age, gender, nationality, and lifestyle, are marketized as part of a product where workers are easily replaceable, unveiling the commodification of DW. Hence, there is a dominance and commodification over the worker's time, private life, and corporality, a dynamic that we call chronoproperty. We discuss that DW's labor is presented as a good rather than a service, reflecting on the managerial system built in Chilean society through discourses and practices. We reflect on the international implications of our findings amidst the rise of digital platforms for DW and the need to advance toward an intersectional understanding of the working logic, considering that domestic work is mostly performed by migrant women crossed by class and race dynamics.
Understanding Co‐Creation in a Research Partnership Programme Exploring Patient‐Driven Innovations: A Qualitative Longitudinal Study
Authors: Jansson Hanna , Luckhaus Jamie L. , Hasson Henna , Mazzocato Pamela , Stenfors Terese , Wannheden Carolina
Published: August 2024

Background

Research indicates that successful co‐creation depends on a shared understanding of co‐creation and its related concepts. However, it also shows that, in practice, views on co‐creation and how to do it differ. This study aims to explore how patient innovators and researchers in a partnership research programme understand co‐creation and how this understanding changes over time.

Methods

An explorative longitudinal qualitative study was conducted with the ‘Patients in the Driver's Seat’ partnership research programme. Fifty‐eight interviews were performed and analysed using a reflexive thematic approach.

Findings

Four different ways of understanding co‐creation were identified. These can be instrumentally conceptualized as themes using the inputs‐process‐outputs model: (1) combining different perspectives, experiences and backgrounds (inputs); (2) deliberately dynamic and exploratory (process); (3) striving for equity, not equality (process); and (4) diverse value creation, tangible and intangible (outputs). Together, these themes represent the varied understandings of co‐creation among partnership programme members.

Conclusions

Our study of patient innovators and researchers identified four distinct yet complementary understandings of co‐creation. The study suggests that co‐creation is the sum of its essential components, which can be divided into inputs, process, and outputs.

Patient or Public Contribution

This study, and the partnership programme it explored, aims to improve the relevance of research for patients and informal caregivers through an improved understanding of the concept of co‐creation within research on patient innovation. All patient innovators involved in the programme were invited, as interviewees and researchers, to contribute to the study design and data analysis.
Enzymatic synthesis of structured lipids rich in α‐linolenic acid: impacts of triacylglycerol profile on physicochemical characteristics
Authors: Liu Xuan , He Shi , Mu Lixia , Liu Jun , Zhou Pengfei , Liao Sentai , Wang Weifei
Published: August 2024

Medium‐ and long‐chain triacylglycerols rich in α‐linolenic acid (ALA‐MLCT) are a kind of functional structural lipids that provide ω‐3 fatty acid and faster energy supply to human body. To improve the functional and nutritional properties of vegetable oils, we proposed an effective strategy for the synthesis of ALA‐MLCT by enzymatic interesterification of coconut oil and flaxseed oil. Lipase UM1 exhibited the highest interesterification activity compared with commercial Lipozyme RM IM, Lipozyme TL IM and Novozym 435. MLCT (76.59%) and ALA‐MLCT (45.03%) were obtained under the optimum reaction conditions: substrate molar ratio (coconut oil/flaxseed oil) 1:1, temperature 40 °C, Lipase UM1 loading 25 U g‑1. Furthermore, we identified 14 characteristic triacylglycerols molecules between enzymatic interesterification and physical blend by orthogonal partial least squares‐discrimination analysis (OPLS‐DA) model. The content of triunsaturated type triacylglycerols in enzymatic interesterification product (11.29%) was lower than that of physical blend (36.25%). Enzymatic interesterification product had lower solid fat content and 2.44 times oxidative stability than physical blend. These findings provide an effective strategy for the synthesis of functional ALA‐MLCT and advance the understanding of the relationship between triacylglycerols composition and physicochemical characteristics.
Biopsychosocial predictors of rapid weight gain from birth to 6 months
Authors: Leerkes Esther M. , Buehler Cheryl , Wideman Laurie , Chen Yu , Shriver Lenka H.
Published: August 2024

Background

Childhood obesity remains a public health crisis and identification of unique prenatal and early infancy predictors of obesity risk are critically needed.

Objectives

We test a comprehensive biopsychosocial model of the predictors of rapid weight gain (RWG) in the first 6 months of life.

Methods

Two hundred and ninety nine pregnant women and their infants participated. Maternal prenatal psychobiological risk (PPBR) was assessed during the third trimester via maternal anthropometrics, serum biomarkers (insulin, leptin, adiponectin), and maternal report of pregnancy complications, substance use, mental health and stress. Infant stress reactivity was measured at 2 months (cortisol output, resting RSA, observed irritability, negative emotionality). At 2 and 6 months, maternal self‐report of obesogenic feeding practices and observed maternal sensitivity during three tasks were collected. RWG was classified based on change in weight‐for‐age z scores from birth to 6 months (>0.67 SD).

Results

Obesogenic feeding practices predicted greater likelihood of RWG, β = 0.30, p = .0.01, independent of other predictors and covariates. Obesogenic feeding practices was the only proposed intervening mechanism that produced a significant indirect effect of PPBR on RWG, b = 0.05, S.E. = 0.04, 95% CI [0.002, 0.15], β = 0.06.

Conclusion

Identifying proclivity towards obesogenic feeding practices and providing support to reduce these behaviours may enhance childhood obesity prevention efforts.
Machine Learning Model Reveals Determinators for Admission to Acute Mental Health Wards From Emergency Department Presentations
Authors: Higgins Oliver , Chalup Stephan K. , Wilson Rhonda L.
Published: August 2024

This research addresses the critical issue of identifying factors contributing to admissions to acute mental health (MH) wards for individuals presenting to the emergency department (ED) with MH concerns as their primary issue, notably suicidality. This study aims to leverage machine learning (ML) models to assess the likelihood of admission to acute MH wards for this vulnerable population. Data collection for this study used existing ED data from 1 January 2016 to 31 December 2021. Data selection was based on specific criteria related to the presenting problem. Analysis was conducted using Python and the Interpretable Machine Learning (InterpretML) machine learning library. InterpretML calculates overall importance based on the mean absolute score, which was used to measure the impact of each feature on admission. A person's ‘Age’ and ‘Triage category’ are ranked significantly higher than ‘Facility identifier’, ‘Presenting problem’ and ‘Active Client’. The contribution of other presentation features on admission shows a minimal effect. Aligning the models closely with service delivery will help services understand their service users and provide insight into financial and clinical variations. Suicidal ideation negatively correlates to admission yet represents the largest number of presentations. The nurse's role at triage is a critical factor in assessing the needs of the presenting individual. The gap that emerges in this context is significant; MH triage requires a complex understanding of MH and presents a significant challenge in the ED. Further research is required to explore the role that ML can provide in assisting clinicians in assessment.
EU Emissions Trading for Transport and Buildings: Saved by Synergistic Institutional Interaction?
Authors: Wettestad Jørgen
Published: August 2024

This article discusses the proposal for an EU emissions trading system for transport and buildings (the ETS2), again with the EU as an international pioneer. How did this controversial proposal come to be adopted in 2023? This study links up to recent EU studies highlighting co‐ordination and interaction between the EU institutions. The Commission helped bring about the ETS2 by strategically using different types of issue linking, both positively and more coercively. In the Parliament, senior members of the European Parliament managed to increase support for the ETS2 by inter‐institutional networking and achieving concessions as to flexible mechanisms. Amongst the member states, heavyweight ETS2 proponents had help from the Commission in bringing sceptical countries on board. Hence, several types of synergistic interaction can be noted, facilitated also by trilogues as the more intimate arena for final compromises. Not least, the increasing role of policy packaging highlights the need for further research on changing inter‐institutional dynamics.