bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strategic orientation, strategic flexibility and firm performance: the important role of strategic human resource management
Authors: Jian Zhaoquan , Javaid Mudaser , Liao Shudi
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Previous investigations into the connection between strategic orientation (SO) and firm performance (FP) have generated inconsistent outcomes. The authors aim to reconcile and explain these varying results through the application of a mediated moderation model. The purpose of this paper is to explore how SO and strategic flexibility (SF) could create the possibility of improving FP. The indirect effect of SO was also tested in this study. Furthermore, by using the moderated mediation model, the authors also investigated the moderating role of strategic human resource management (SHRM).

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopted the empirical research method, collecting data through questionnaires by a two-wave and multi-source data collection approach. The sample consisted of 188 firms from Shandong and Fujian Province in China. SPSS was used to test the research hypotheses.

Findings

This study examines how and when SO enhances FP by considering SF as a critical mediator and SHRM as an important contingency of the mediation effect. The results revealed that SO positively affects SF and FP in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Furthermore, the mediating role of SF between the relationships of SO and FP was also confirmed. Moreover, SHRM strengthens the connection between SO, SR and FP.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the SO literature by revealing how firms translate their SO-based strategies into positive FP through SF and when this indirect effect is most effective.
A study on the mechanisms of building a new development pattern through new urbanization from the perspective of industrial capital circulation
Authors: Jiao Fangyi , Zhang Dongchao , Zheng Xiyue
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This paper analyzes and discusses the fundamental role of new urbanization in the construction of a new development pattern based on the specific practice of China’s new urbanization construction, combining the classical Marxist ideas in urbanization and the theory of the industrial capital circulation, and proposes to remove blockages in the domestic and international circulations through developing new urbanization and construct a new development pattern with the domestic circulation as the mainstay and the domestic and international circulations promoting each other, thereby achieving high-quality national economic operation.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the theory of industrial capital circulation, this paper elucidates the general process of domestic and international economic circulations, critically examines the bottlenecks and challenges in economic circulation, and emphasizes the mechanisms through which new urbanization contributes to the formation of a new development pattern.

Findings

The people-centered new urbanization can effectively release domestic demand, optimize investment supply, and stabilize market participants’ expectations, linking the national economic circulation from production to consumption and alleviating supply and demand mismatches, which has a fundamental role in building the new development pattern.

Originality/value

We should focus on creating a comprehensive domestic demand system based on counties while fostering a unified domestic market led by urban clusters and metropolitan areas to stabilize and enhance the expectations of both domestic and international market participants.
Market competition, labor value and price: a Marxist disequilibrium theoretical and empirical framework
Authors: Zhao Feng , Zhang Jianbao , Luo Zhen
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The correlations and deviations between market prices, production prices and values are critical indexes for testing the labor theory of value. However, there is not yet a universally accepted method of solving for the production price vector, and given the complexity and volatility of economic dynamics, production prices based on the assumption of economic equilibrium cannot be accurate measuring. This paper attempts to propose a new approach to test the labor theory of value.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes a different approach. From the perspective of disequilibrium price, the paper deduces that the range of the relative prices of commodities is determined by the relative value, the rate of surplus-value and the technical structure of production inputs, with relative price fluctuating within the value range specified by the labor theory of value under market competition influences.

Findings

With empirical research results based on China’s economic data, this paper not only affirms the scientific and practical explanatory power of the labor theory of value in a more general sense but also uncovers how surplus value is distributed across sectors, which can be used to analyze market competition and technical relations and their impacts on industrial structure and distribution.

Originality/value

The disequilibrium analytical framework provides a new perspective for the empirical study of labor theory of value. Moreover, it evolves the labor theory of value into a robust empirical framework, breaking through the theoretical path of the traditional labor theory of value that is mostly limited to the normative discussion of exploitation.
Adaptive information retrieval for enhanced building safety management leveraging BIM
Authors: Jiang Shaohua , Zhang Jingqi , Shi Jingting , Wu Yunze
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This paper introduces a novel method to improve building safety management by leveraging building information modeling (BIM) and adaptive information retrieval techniques. The integration aims to overcome the limitations of traditional safety management methods in connecting construction processes with risk management efficiently.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed method involves developing industry foundation classes (IFC) ontologies and integrating them with a safety document ontology to form a comprehensive BIM-based safety context framework. Custom reasoning rules and an inference engine are constructed to enable automatic context-aware safety information retrieval. The methodology is demonstrated through an adaptive information retrieval system using job hazard analysis (JHA) documents.

Findings

The implementation of the BIM-based adaptive information retrieval system shows significant improvements in identifying and managing construction risks. By mapping job-specific risks to corresponding safety measures, the system enhances risk detection and management tailored to particular construction tasks. The results indicate a marked improvement in the precision and accuracy of safety assessments and recommendations, aligning them closely with planned construction activities and conditions.

Originality/value

This paper offers an innovative approach to construction safety management through the development of a BIM-facilitated context-aware information retrieval system. This approach provides a more intelligent and automated framework for identifying and managing risks in construction projects. By focusing on specific job steps and related risks, the system enhances the effectiveness and accuracy of safety measures, contributing to better overall building safety management.
iCoaching the coach: building capacity with embedded evidence-based practice implementation support
Authors: Randolph Kathleen M. , Pegg Lauren , Contesse Valentina , Billingsley Glenna M.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of iCoaching during reading intervention. An interventionist received mentoring support to implement iCoaching. The goal of the study was to increase teacher-delivered, behavior-specific praise (BSP).

Design/methodology/approach

Using a single-case multiple-probe design across participants (Gast, 2010; Horner and Baer, 1978), iCoaching was implemented in a two-part package of (1) professional development (PD) and (2) live iCoaching sessions where three teachers received preemptive coaching comments to increase BSP delivery during reading intervention. Visual analysis identified changes in teacher behavior.

Findings

Findings demonstrated the iCoaching intervention package increased teacher knowledge and implementation of evidence-based practices (EBPs; i.e. BSP) during tiered reading intervention groups. Most student participants made gains in reading skills (accuracy, words per minute and composite score) across the areas measured.

Research limitations/implications

Teacher absences, observation scheduling, an ongoing global pandemic, IEP meetings during intervention time, and other changes in the schedule were limitations of this study. The first set of earbuds lost the audio signal several times, and researchers lost the ability to hear the instruction occurring in the classroom; the earbuds were replaced by the first intervention phase.

Practical implications

Previous iCoaching literature demonstrates iCoaching provides implementation support for EBPs learned in PD. Peer coaching can have a positive impact on EBP implementation when iCoaching is non-evaluative, which supports teachers with EBP implementation with minimal disruption to teaching.

Originality/value

This manuscript extends iCoaching research (Randolph et al., 2020, 2021) from small group special education settings to general education intervention groups. Additionally, research shows iCoaching can be extended with mentoring.
When bigger is not always better: exploring the size-dependent nature of the sustainability reporting-firm valuation relationship
Authors: D'Costa Clifford Reuben , Prabhudesai Rohit , Naik Sankalp Purushottam , Prasad Ch V V S N V , Mishra Mahima
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to understand the relationship between a company’s sustainability (ESG) disclosures and its valuation. In addition, it also seeks to analyse the moderating effect of firm size on the association between ESG disclosures and firm valuation.

Design/methodology/approach

The NIFTY 200 index comprising India’s top 200 companies by market capitalisation from different industrial sectors was chosen for this study. The sample period was from 2017 to 2022. The fixed effect regression analysis was conducted on the panel data for analysis purposes.

Findings

A positive influence of ESG disclosures on firm value was observed, primarily owing to the environmental and social disclosures. Interestingly, the moderating impact of firm size on the linkage between ESG disclosures and firm value was found to be negative.

Originality/value

Most extant literature show a positive association between ESG disclosures and firm valuation, which was also observed in our study. However, the study results indicate that larger firms are less likely to benefit from the ESG – firm valuation relationship rather than small firms. This could have key policy-level implications for smaller firms from emerging nations that usually refrain from sustainability disclosures.
The public library “for all”? A typology of the ranging notions of “for all” in public libraries in Norway and Denmark
Authors: Nissen Anne-Sofie Elbrønd , Kann-Rasmussen Nanna
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This article explores the ranging notions of a public library for all and the related conflicts on for all and the principle of neutrality in Norway and Denmark.

Design/methodology/approach

A document study of four profession magazines in a ten-year period is conducted, focusing on the problematizations of for all using the WPR approach: What’s the Problem Represented to be? Theories on public sphere and democracy frequently applied in Library and Information Science (LIS) are discussed in relation to the ranging notions.

Findings

The analysis shows that although for all is used as an argument by both advocates and opponents of the principle of neutrality, there are different notions of who constitutes for all. In total, five ranging notions of for all are identified and presented in a typology, to serve as a framework to understand the conflicts concerning neutrality and the public library for all.

Originality/value

The typology offers a new conceptual framework for understanding the nature of the conflicts and why they appear. The analysis indicates a need to discuss the use of for all in order to engage in more nuanced discussions of the democratic role of the public library.
Using fuzzy cognitive maps to evaluate the innovation in micro, small and medium-sized enterprises
Authors: Gutiérrez Buitrago Ana Gissel , Aguilar Jose , Ortega Ana , Montoya Edwin
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This article presents a fuzzy cognitive map for the evaluation of innovation in organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

The purpose of this paper is to develop a model to evaluate the innovative capacity of organizations based on fuzzy cognitive maps (FCM), particularly for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). The specification of the innovation evaluation model based on FCM was carried out with the “Intelligent Decision Support System” methodology. It is a six-step methodology: selection of experts, definition of concepts and relationships, model design, inference, interpretation and decision.

Findings

Our approach yielded good results in three case studies, effectively determining the level of innovation in an organization. The fuzzy cognitive maps demonstrated a high level of accuracy, with an accuracy of 82% in the Colombian case studies and 92% in the global case studies. These results highlight the effectiveness of the model for quantitatively assessing levels of innovation within organizations. Furthermore, the study revealed the most influential and essential innovative activities/variables within organizations, contributing significantly to the improvement of their operations and competitiveness.

Research limitations/implications

It is important to automate the definition of the relationships between the concepts of the context and of our FCM. It is also possible to improve the behavior of the FCM by analyzing the variables with a greater impact on the level of innovation and very dynamic in the context since they are the variables to be observed in real-time to follow the evolution of the innovative behavior of an organization.

Practical implications

The study found that innovative activities emerged as an influential factor in organizations, essential to improving their operations and competitiveness. Our model can help in identifying areas that require improvement to impact positively organizations. By improving innovation assessment through the FCM model, organizations can anticipate higher profitability because innovations are often closely tied to revenue generation and cost savings. The tool can determine the necessity of new products or services, improve operational processes or enter new markets.

Originality/value

The previous results in the literature show that although there are relevant advances on this topic, there is not enough knowledge to provide clear guidelines for evaluating innovation and improving performance in an organization using intelligent systems. Also, previous works have not defined a framework for evaluating innovation in MSMEs based on FCMs. They also do not use the data of an organization to assess the key characteristics related to innovation. This work applies FCM to automate the evaluation of the process and the capacity for innovation in an organization. These are the main differences between our approach and previous studies.
Assessing impact risk to tropical marine ecosystems from human activities with a Southeast Asian example
Authors: Culhane Fiona , Austen Melanie C. , Ashley Matthew , Javier Jonson , Kuit Sui Hyang , Hung Nguyen Phuc , Tran Hau Duc , Praptiwi Radisti A. , Sainal Sainal , Justine Eva , Wulandari Prawesti , Broszeit Stefanie , Jontila Jean Beth , Johari Sofia , Creencia Lota , Then Amy Yee‐Hui , Gajardo Lea Janine , Maharja Carya , Goh Hong Ching , Syazwan Wan Mohd , Affendi Yang Amri , Thảo Lê Ngọc , Sugardjito Jito , Mullier Tom , Langmead Olivia
Published: November 2024

Society relies on intact marine ecosystems for ecosystem services such as nutrition, livelihoods, health and well‐being. Yet, to obtain these benefits, we carry out activities, introducing pressures to ecosystems, damaging and degrading habitats and reducing their capacity to optimally provide ecosystem services. Biodiversity and ecosystem services are consequently being lost globally but impact chains from these activities are poorly understood, especially in tropical marine ecosystems.

We identified for the first time impact chains linking activities with pressures they introduce in five tropical coastal and marine habitats, specifically through application in four Southeast Asian case study sites. Using expert elicitation based on existing evidence, we weighted each impact chain according to pressure extent, frequency and persistence, and habitat resistance and resilience. Assigning each impact chain an impact risk score allowed identification of activities and pressures introducing most risk, and habitats most under threat.

Of 26 activities we considered, we found fishing activities, specifically trawling, gill nets and seine nets introduce most risk, along with tourism and recreation. Litter and pollution were among the greatest pressures on habitats, with coral reefs being most vulnerable overall. Destructive fishing practices were associated with physical pressures like abrasion, smothering and siltation and total habitat loss, while tourism activities were associated with organic enrichment, litter and pollution. The risk levels depended on the habitat and on local case study context.

Synthesis and applications: A contextualised risk‐based approach can help to prioritise sustainability issues for management in data‐poor regions by making use of a range of knowledge types from local experts to broader scientific knowledge. A multisectoral, and ecosystem‐based risk assessment can help decision makers to consider trade‐offs in marine resource management and highlight priorities transparently, where coordination of multiple administrative organisations, sectors and local actors is required to meet multiple sustainability objectives. Physical pressures from fishing activities combined with pollution from tourism indicate effective management requires a multi‐use zoning approach that not only considers impacts at the site of activities but also integrates regional coordination to tackle dispersive pressures from pollution or sediment disturbance that occur at a distance from the source.
Enhanced therapeutic efficacy of granulocyte/monocyte adsorption in rats with drug‐induced colitis : Insights from a downsized bead column and newly formed B cells
Authors: Nishioka Yujin , Murayama Goh , Kusaoi Makio , Takemasa Daichi , Kaneda Kenta , Kuga Taiga , Hagiwara Yukitomo , Saito Takumi , Yamaji Yu , Suzuki Yoshifumi , Nagaoka Tetsutaro , Yamaji Ken , Tamura Naoto
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Granulocyte/monocyte adsorption therapy can manage mild‐to‐moderate inflammatory bowel disease by removing activated granulocytes and monocytes. We evaluated granulocyte/monocyte adsorption using new columns with reduced bead size and theoretically enhanced adsorption.

Methods

We assessed granulocyte/monocyte adsorption in rats with colitis by analyzing cell changes and cytokine production.

Results

Granulocyte/monocyte adsorption with the new columns improved histology in rats with colitis. Contrary to expectations, the adsorption rate of granulocytes/monocytes into the blood did not show a significant improvement. However, flow cytometry showed increased B cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and newly formed B cells in the bone marrow, which produced more interleukin‐10 than peripheral blood B cells. Newly formed B cells adoptively transferred into colitis rats accumulated at the inflammation site and tended to inhibit intestinal shortening.

Conclusions

Newly formed B cells with strong interleukin‐10 production may alleviate inflammation. The new columns suggest potential for controlling colitis.
The Impact of Life‐History Traits on Vulnerability to Extinction of the Oviparous Species in Reptiles
Authors: Tian Yingjian , Jiang Ying , Shao Weijie , Wu Yiming , Liao Wenbo
Published: November 2024

A species' vulnerability to extinction is influenced by both extrinsic threats (e.g., habitat loss and invasive species) and intrinsic biological traits (such as life‐history traits, reproductive mode, and reproductive output). In this study, we investigated the roles of intrinsic biological traits in determining the risk of extinction across 960 oviparous species of non‐avian reptiles. Our findings revealed that vulnerability to extinction is negatively correlated with clutch size, but positively correlated with egg size when controlling for body size. Surprisingly, we found that body size alone is not a predictor of extinction risk. Additionally, we observed a nonsignificant relationship between the activity phase and vulnerability to extinction across oviparous species. These results suggest that the increased risk of endangerment in oviparous reptiles may stem from declining population density due to decreasing clutch size and increasing egg mass.
Opposite effects of climate and land‐use/cover change on Mediterranean herpetofauna: Insights from the southern Apennines
Authors: Biancolini D. , De Riso L. , Romano A.
Published: November 2024

Climate change and natural land conversion are causing dramatic shifts in species distribution. Amphibians and reptiles, ectothermic animals with limited dispersal ability, and Mediterranean mountain ranges, which are home to numerous locally adapted taxa, are especially vulnerable to these threats. This is the case with Cilento, a highly biodiverse yet under‐investigated area in the southern Apennine Mountains that is protected by a National Park and 30 Natura 2000 sites. We used bias‐corrected species distribution models and area of habitat (AOH) maps to assess the potential combined impact of climate and land‐use change on 11 amphibians and 16 reptiles in the Park and overlapping Natura 2000 sites. The former estimates species climatic suitability (CS) by correlating species presence to climatic characteristics, whereas the latter classifies the land‐use types based on species–habitat relationships. We estimated CS and AOH for current conditions and two climate and land‐use/cover change scenarios: one of sustainability (SSP1‐2.6) and one of fossil‐fueled development (SSP5‐8.5). Under both scenarios, most species showed significant CS loss, with the greatest declines estimated for amphibians and under SSP5‐8.5. Highland species appear to be the most vulnerable, whereas lowland species may gain CS. Given the widespread renaturalization of agricultural land under both scenarios, most species did not show declines in AOH due to land‐use change. However, all species were projected to face significant shifts in CS under both scenarios, presenting a crucial challenge to their survival. These findings offer valuable insights for climate mitigation initiatives aimed at securing the long‐term protection of herpetofauna within Cilento's protected areas.
Wildlife mammal communities in post‐war Angola are depleted and simplified: Implications for biodiversity conservation
Authors: Rocha F. , Chicomo M. , Lutondo E. , Monterroso P.
Published: November 2024

Armed conflicts are recognized to significantly impact wildlife, as they are particularly prevalent in biodiversity hotspot areas. Understanding these impacts on biodiversity is important for comprehending the indirect consequences for ecosystem processes and promoting their rehabilitation. Although the impact of warfare on protected areas (PAs) has been a target of research, its understanding remains limited. Additionally, the influence of armed conflicts on biodiversity in non‐protected lands has been largely overlooked and underexplored. We aim to assess the impact of almost 40 years of armed conflicts on intermediate‐ and large‐sized mammals in two communities in southern Angola: a National Park with limited management capacity—Bicuar National Park (BNP)—and a recently established private ecotourism reserve, without legal protection—Cuatir Conservation Area (CCA). Specifically, we compared contemporary species richness, occupancy probabilities and evenness‐weighted diversity between the two areas, and contextualize it relative to historical records. Our results reveal a significant loss of species compared to known mammal species richness prior to the civil unrest, with some remaining species persisting at very low occupancy levels. Furthermore, our findings suggest equivalent contemporary biodiversity levels in both study areas, albeit with distinct community compositions and structures. Although both areas retained a relatively intact small‐ and intermediate‐sized mammal community, the PA better conserved the larger species community. Furthermore, occupancy probabilities of endangered and threatened species were higher in the PA than in the non‐PA. Our results underscore the critical role of PAs in conserving threatened species, even amidst limited law enforcement capacity and rehabilitation measures. Additionally, we highlight the significance of the non‐PA in conserving wildlife species and ecological processes on a larger scale. Our results support the idea that well‐preserved non‐PAs often harbor crucial wildlife nuclei and facilitate connectivity between populations, thereby aiding natural recolonizations. As such, these areas should be the focus of policies encouraging restoration and facilitating functional connections with protected areas.
The Family Snapshot–Innovation to integrate family context into daily interactions in the NICU
Authors: Dahan Maya , Rotteau Leahora , Rolnitsky Asaph , Higazi Shelley , Kwakye Ophelia , Lai Giselle W. S. , Moulsdale Wendy , Sampson Lisa , Stannard Jennifer , O'Brien Karel , Church Paige Terrien
Published: November 2024

Aim

Current literature favours individualised decision making, an approach that requires understanding patients within their context and tailoring treatment and recommendations to their unique needs. In neonatology, family context becomes synonymous with patient context. In the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), the team may be challenged to understand the intricacies of the family context, paramount for both families and clinicians. However, a significant gap exists between the intent to share information about the family context and the process of doing so. The transformational goal of this project was to embed an understanding of the family context into all interactions that occur in the NICU between clinicians and families, and between clinicians when discussing patients.

Methods

We designed and implemented the Family Snapshot (FS), an innovation to bridge the gap between the intent and the process to share the family context.

Results

Two groups of process measures have been collected to understand workflow integration: (1) whether the forms are being used and (2) how the forms are being used. Overall, completion of at least some part of the FS was >90%.

Conclusion

This manuscript describes our process, its feasibility and impact and presents two tools, the FS antenatal consultations and the FS tab.
Assessing the role of conspiracy beliefs in oncological treatment decisions: An experimental approach
Authors: Varet Florent , Fournier Valentyn , Delouvée Sylvain
Published: November 2024

Cancer is an important issue and a model topic for misinformatfion researchers. The present research experimentally investigates the effect of cancer‐related conspiracy beliefs and misinformation on oncology treatment intentions in a cancer‐free population. In three pre‐registered studies (N total = 1020), participants were asked to put themselves in the shoes of a patient recommended for chemotherapy. Study 1 (N = 300) failed to experimentally manipulate cancer‐related conspiracy beliefs with exposure to a health scandal not related to cancer. In Study 2 (N = 258), exposure to a pro‐conspiracy (vs. anti‐conspiracy) content related to cancer treatment was associated with more conspiracy beliefs, less intention to use chemotherapy and more intentions to use unconventional medicines. Exploratory analyses revealed that these effects were conditioned by the credibility of the misinformation. Study 3 (N = 462) replicated these findings using a full experimental design. Exposure (vs. no exposure) to a warning and accuracy prompt, prior to exposure to the pro‐conspiracy content, was found to be effective in reducing its credibility and preventing its detrimental effects. These findings corroborate the existence of an effect of conspiracy beliefs on treatment intentions in oncology and also suggest several ways to mitigate them.
Recommended approaches for integration of population pharmacokinetic modelling with precision dosing in clinical practice
Authors: Berezowska Monika , Hayden Isaac S. , Brandon Andrew M. , Zats Arsenii , Patel Mehzabin , Barnett Shelby , Ogungbenro Kayode , Veal Gareth J. , Taylor Alaric , Suthar Jugal
Published: November 2024

Current methods of dose determination have contributed to suboptimal and inequitable health outcomes in underrepresented patient populations. The persistent demand to individualise patient treatment, alongside increasing technological feasibility, is leading to a growing adoption of model‐informed precision dosing (MIPD) at point of care. Population pharmacokinetic (popPK) modelling is a technique that supports treatment personalisation by characterising drug exposure in diverse patient groups. This publication addresses this important shift in clinical approach, by collating and summarising recommendations from literature. It seeks to provide standardised guidelines on best practices for the development of popPK models and their use in MIPD software tools, ensuring the safeguarding and optimisation of patient outcomes. Moreover, it consolidates guidance from key regulatory and advisory bodies on MIPD software deployment, as well as technical requirements for electronic health record integration. It also considers the future application and clinical impact of machine learning algorithms in popPK and MIPD. Ultimately, this publication aims to facilitate the incorporation of high‐quality precision‐dosing solutions into standard clinical workflows, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of individualised dose selection at point of care.
Global Value Chain Linkages and Business Cycle Comovement: Evidence From Cross‐Country Panel Data
Authors: Zhu Shujin , Wang Zixuan
Published: November 2024

We empirically investigate the impact of global value chain (GVC) linkages on business cycle comovement by using the cross‐country panel data covering 43 developing and developed countries over the period 2000–2014 obtained from the World Input‐Output Database 2016 Release (WIOD 2016). We find that GVC linkages have a positive impact on business cycle comovement. We also find that the impact of GVC linkages in final goods is larger than that of GVC linkages in advanced intermediate goods and then GVC linkages in basic intermediate goods, indicating the moderating effect of the production length. Moreover, the impact of GVC linkages on business cycle comovement between developing and developed countries is highly significant, implying that GVC linkages may narrow the growth gap between developing and developed countries. These findings suggest the importance of the GVC specialization, the South‐North cooperation, and the international risk management.
Effects of statins in patients with coronary artery spasm: A nationwide population‐based study
Authors: Lee Yu‐Ching , Hung Ming‐Jui , Chen Tien‐Hsing , Mao Chun‐Tai , Yeh Chi‐Tai , Kounis Nicholas G. , Chen Ian Y. , Hu Patrick , Hung Ming‐Yow
Published: November 2024

Controversies regarding the benefits of statin treatment on clinical outcomes in coronary artery spasm (CAS) without obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) persist due to limited data. In this retrospective nationwide population‐based cohort study from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database during the period 2000–2012, the matched cohorts consisted of 12,000 patients with CAS. After propensity score matching with 1:1 ratio, 2216 patients were eligible for outcome analysis in either statin or nonstatin group, with the mean follow‐up duration of 4.8 and 4.6 years, respectively. Statin users versus nonusers had a significantly reduced risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) (6.7% vs. 9.5%, hazard ratio [HR] 0.68; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.55–0.84) and all‐cause mortality (6.0% vs. 7.6%; HR 0.77; 95% CI 0.61–0.96). While the results of MACEs were mainly contributed by cardiovascular death (1.9% vs. 3.2%; HR 0.56; 95% CI 0.38–0.83) and ischemic stroke (3.8% vs. 5.4%; subdistribution HR 0.69; 95% CI 0.52–0.91), they were primarily driven by reductions in ischemic but not hemorrhagic stroke. The benefit of statins was significantly pronounced in patients with hypertension and diabetes. Nevertheless, the effect on MACEs was consistent irrespective of age, sex, dyslipidemia, and mental disorder. Statins significantly reduced the risk of MACEs and all‐cause mortality in CAS patients. The benefit of statin therapy in reducing MACEs appeared to be linear, with greater risk reduction with higher doses and longer duration without upper threshold, reflecting the dose‐dependent relationship of statins with MACEs in CAS patients.
Robots, Labour Market Frictions and Corporate Financial Policy
Authors: Liu Yanguang (Alice)
Published: November 2024

We construct a novel firm‐level measure of robot exposure using the International Federation of Robotics (IFR) data set and new robot patent data. We find that the use of robots leads to higher leverage and lower cash holdings. Using an instrumental variable based on the comparative advantage of robots in specific tasks, we find that the effect is likely to be causal and driven by the reduced operating leverage. The effect is stronger when firms are hit by negative shocks including minimum wage hikes and foreign competition. Firms with more robots pay out more and use fewer corporate hedging contracts.
Platelet factor 4 immune disease: medical emergencies that look like heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia
Authors: Bennett Ashwini , Choi Phil Y. , Tan Chee Wee
Published: November 2024

Heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a serious adverse reaction to heparin. Other HIT‐like syndromes are increasingly recognised, mediated by antibodies binding to platelet factor 4, with or without identifiable polyanions. The history of heparin exposure is atypical for classical HIT and standard HIT laboratory tests may be negative. This manuscript describes subtypes of HIT‐like syndromes and highlights practical tips for diagnosis and therapy.
Application of Image‐Based Features and Machine Learning Models to Detect Brick Powder Adulteration in Red Chili Powder
Authors: Brar Dilpreet Singh , Singh Birmohan , Nanda Vikas
Published: November 2024

This study has introduced a novel methodology for detecting brick powder (BP) adulteration in red chili powder (RCP; Variety: Bullet Lanka‐5) by strengthening advanced digital image processing techniques. Specifically, this approach integrated color space histogram and texture features, subsequently refined through Z‐score normalization and followed by the infinite latent feature selection (InLFS) method. By combining these innovative image‐based techniques with machine learning (ML) algorithms, this research sets a standard for ensuring the safety and authenticity of RCP. The digital image‐based dataset consisting of images of pure and adulterated RCP with BP at various concentrations, is used to extract the features for the evaluation of models. Three histograms (i.e., YCbCr, RGB, and Lab) and texture feature models (i.e., GLCM, GLDM, and GLRM) are extracted from each image. Subsequently, the InLFS model is employed to identify the most desirable features for the extracted histogram and texture features, which are further trained on the ML models to evaluate the existence and extent of BP adulteration in RCP. The regression model has given a higher coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.99 when using exponential Gaussian Process Regression (GPR) trained on Lab color space histogram features, with corresponding RMSE, MSE, and MAE values of 2.14, 12.21, and 1.08, respectively. Meanwhile, the subspace KNN classifier, with SF‐C‐Texture‐Lab‐hist, has achieved an accuracy of 99.31%. Therefore, the findings of this study underscore the potential applications of digital image‐based feature extraction in combination with ML models to ensure the safety and authenticity of RCP.
The International Symposium on Avian Endocrinology, 1977–2024: Past, present and future
Authors: Wingfield John C.
Published: November 2024

The First International Symposium on Avian Endocrinology (ISAE) was held 47 years ago at the Grand Hotel in Kolkata (Calcutta), India. Professor Asok Ghosh organized and convened the symposium, and Professor Donald S. Farner was President. The 1977 ISAE was convened at a time when neuroendocrine cascades were emerging as major pathways by which environmental events are perceived and transduced resulting in endocrine secretions that then orchestrate life history stages. Methods to measure hormone concentrations in blood and other tissues were relatively recent allowing the advance of laboratory and field investigations to explore ecological bases of endocrine control systems. The rise of evolutionary endocrinology and theory in ecological contexts followed—topics that are flourishing today. Studies on poultry continue to play central roles at ISAE meetings. In recent decades, the incorporation of genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, epigenetics and other technologies provide us with an unprecedented array of tools to explore endocrinological processes at mechanistic levels we could never have dreamed of in 1977. The future looks to be an era of major advances in neuroendocrinology. What technologies will arise and transform our knowledge further? Artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a tool in avian endocrinology in at least research on endocrine disrupting chemicals. Will AI facilitate new advances and research directions across the field? The future of basic research has never been brighter than it is now. As in the past, ISAEs in the next decades will integrate new discoveries across environmental and applied biology. New challenges will doubtless appear.
Land Grab Double Binds: Peasant Farmers and/in the Ecuadorian Mining Boom
Authors: Lyall Angus , Ruales Gabriela
Published: November 2024

The expansion of mining in Ecuador has stirred resistance among some Indigenous peasant communities in the name of territorial rights; others have offered their land and labour to mining companies. In this and similar land grab contexts, Indigenous peasant communities are often broadly represented as natural resisters or as corrupted collaborators, which, we argue, does not account for how peasants with territorial and/or land rights weigh their options. In Napo province, we examine how peasants have adjudicated contradictory socioeconomic pressures and, in turn, opted to work with miners. We highlight the methodological and political implications of centering how local ‘participants’ in land grabs experience untenable choices or ‘double binds’ to understand the efficacy of land grabs and the obstacles to resistance.
Eating Together but Often Feeling Lonely: Residents' Mealtime Experiences in a Nursing Home
Authors: Nielsen Magdalena , Werkander Harstäde Carina , Sandgren Anna
Published: November 2024

Aim

To explore residents' experiences of the mealtime environment in nursing home.

Design

An exploratory qualitative design was employed to gain in‐depth insights.

Methods

Twenty semi‐structured interviews were conducted with residents at a nursing home. Data were analysed using thematic analysis as outlined by Braun and Clarke. The consolidated criteria for Reporting Qualitative research checklist were used to support the research process.

Results

Four main themes emerged from the analysis: (1) The significance of food, emphasising the centrality of food quality and variety in residents' mealtime experiences. (2) Security through routines, illustrating how established mealtime routines provide comfort and predictability. (3) Variability in staff influence, reflecting residents' perceptions of staff competence and their impact on the dining experience. (4) Limited social interactions, highlighting the varied social dynamics and their effects on residents' sense of community and isolation.

Conclusion

The study underscores the critical importance of food quality, staff compliance and consistent routines in enhancing mealtime experiences in nursing homes. Additionally, it reveals that the ability to choose social interactions plays a significant role in residents' satisfaction and social well‐being.

Implication for Patient Care

This study provides valuable insights for improving mealtime experiences in nursing homes, suggesting that person‐centred care and resident involvement in meal planning can enhance satisfaction and nutritional intake.

Impact

The findings offer practical guidance for healthcare management, emphasising the need to prioritise and personalise mealtime environments to better meet residents' needs and preferences.
166Ho‐RadioEmbolizaTiOn Using personalized prediCtive dosimetry in patients with Hepatocellular carcinoma: A prospective, single‐centre study (RETOUCH)
Authors: Bucalau Ana‐Maria , Collette Benoît , Tancredi Illario , Vierasu Irina , Tannouri Fadi , Pezzullo Martina , Moreno‐Reyes Rodrigo , Verset Gontran
Published: November 2024

Background and Aims

Holmium‐166 (166Ho) radioembolization could offer a more individualized approach in terms of imaging and dosimetry. We aim to evaluate the feasibility and safety of 166Ho selective internal radiation therapy (SIRT) using a higher tumour dose than previously administered determined by 166Ho‐scout as a surrogate marker in HCC patients.

Methods

This is an open‐label, prospective, non‐randomized, single‐centre pilot study that included patients with HCC that received 166Ho‐SIRT if the work‐up using 166Ho‐scout showed a tumour‐absorbed dose ≥150 Gy, a non‐tumoural liver absorbed dose less than 60 Gy and a lung absorbed dose less than 30 Gy. Primary endpoints were feasibility and safety–toxicity profiles at 24–48 h and 1 month. Overall response rates (ORR) at 3 months (mRECIST, RECIST 1.1 and metabolic response by FDG and choline PET CT) and time to progression (TTP) represented the secondary endpoints.

Results

Fifteen patients with large tumours (mean diameter 55.67 ± 28.42 mm) received 17 166Ho‐SIRT treatments between July 2020 and June 2022. All the attempted treatments were accomplished. Mean administered tumour dose was 183.18 ± 71.71 Gy, while non‐tumour liver dose was 30.29 ± 14.56 Gy. Median time of follow‐up was 12 months (IQR 9–16). Only grade 1–2 clinical and biological AEs were observed. There were no liver decompensations. At 3 months, objective response was achieved for all target lesions (CR 78.57%, PR 21.43% according to mRECIST). Median TTP was 18.8 (range 2.9; n.e.) months.

Conclusion

Personalized 166Ho‐SIRT with a tumour delivered dose ≥150 Gy was feasible and safe for HCC patients with promising response rates.
MYB::QKI fusion‐positive diffuse glioma of the cerebellum: A case report
Authors: Satomi Kaishi , Shibayama Takahiro , Hibiya Takashi , Hayashi Akimasa , Nagahama Kiyotaka , Kato Kenichiro , Nikai Yukino , Matsushita Yuko , Gomyo Miho , Yamagishi Yuki , Sasaki Nobuyoshi , Saito Kuniaki , Kobayashi Keiichi , Takeda Anna , Fujimoto So , Matsuo Takeshi , Takai Keisuke , Komori Takashi , Tsuchiya Kazuhiro , Nagane Motoo , Ichimura Koichi , Shibahara Junji
Published: November 2024

Angiocentric glioma (AG) is a supratentorial diffuse low‐grade glioma characterized by the MYB::QKI fusion gene, showing angiocentric growth of monomorphous spindle cells with astrocytic and ependymal immunophenotypes. We describe a rare case of MYB::QKI fusion‐positive diffuse cerebellar glioma in a 54‐year‐old male. The patient initially presented with a T2/FLAIR hyperintense lesion in the left cerebellar hemisphere and slowly progressive neurological symptoms. Histopathological evaluation revealed a diffuse glioma characterized by spindle‐shaped and small epithelioid cells with perivascular infiltration. Immunohistochemistry showed positivity for glial fibrillary acidic protein and only occasionally positive for Olig2. No dot‐ or ring‐like epithelial membrane antigen immunoreactivity was observed. In this case, the proliferative activity was higher than that in typical AG cases, as manifested by multiple mitoses (four mitoses/slide) and a Ki‐67 labeling index of 5%. The tumor cells were negative for IDH1 p.R132H and H3 p.K28M mutation‐specific antibodies. Fluorescence in situ hybridization showed a MYB break‐apart signal, and reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction analysis confirmed an in‐frame MYB (6q23.3, exon 11, NM_001161659.2)::QKI (6q26, exon 5, NM_006775.3) fusion. IDH1 p.R132, IDH2 p.R172, H3‐3A p.K28, H3C2 p.K28, and BRAF p.V600 were all wild type. DNA methylome profiling did not match any of the established methylation classes, including the four subtypes of diffuse glioma, MYB‐ or MYBL1‐altered. Considering the results of DNA methylome profiling, the question remains as to whether this case represents a subset of AG (diffuse glioma, MYB/MYBL1‐altered) or a distinct subtype. Although the morphological findings and the presence of fusion indicated that the tumor was a cerebellar AG, the DNA methylome profile did not match that of AG. An accumulation of more cases is needed to determine the precise nature of the tumor, which may lead to an expansion of the tumor concept.
PhNH10 Suppresses Low Temperature Tolerance in Petunia Through the Abscisic Acid‐Dependent Pathway
Authors: Niu Hongzhuang , Liu Xueqi , Li Kexin , Ma Changkun , Li Jiazhe , Li Li , Liu Man , Li Bingjing , Zhang Rui , Li Qian
Published: November 2024

Low‐temperature stress limits plant growth, and reduces aesthetics of many ornamental plants. Plants have developed different adaptive mechanisms to cope with low‐temperature stress, in which NAC transcription factor family members playing an important role in low‐temperature tolerance. However, their roles in petunia in response to low temperature are still largely unknown. Here, we found that a NAC transcription factor, namely, PhNH10, negatively regulates low‐temperature response in petunia. PhNH10‐silenced and ‐CRISPR/Cas9 mutant plants displayed higher survival rate, anthocyanin content and abscisic acid concentration than PhNH10‐overexpression and wild‐type plants under low‐temperature condition. PhNH10 can directly bind to the PhABA8ox promoter to active its expression, which further promotes the abscisic acid catabolism, while silencing of PhABA8ox increased the ABA concentration and low‐temperature tolerance. In addition, PhNH10 interact with a low‐temperature‐related E2 ubiquitin‐conjugating enzyme, PhUBC2‐1, which in turn inhibited the binding capacity of PhNH10 on PhABA8ox promoter. Our research has elucidated an extensive mechanistic network underlying the PhNH10‐mediated regulation of low‐temperature response in petunia. This finding not only presents a new viewpoint in understanding the low‐temperature tolerance mechanisms but also delineates a promising pathway for transgenic petunia with improved low‐temperature resistance.