bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Procalcitonin and High APACHE Scores are Associated with the Development of Acute Kidney Injury in Patients with SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Jorge Andrade Sierra , Claudia Delgado Astorga , Miriam Gabriela Nava Vargas , Enrique Rojas Campos , Kevin Javier Arellano Arteaga , Morales Karla Hernández , Andrade Castellanos Carlos A , Antonio de Jesús Andrade-Ortega , Luis Gerardo González-Correa
Published: August 2022

Background

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is associated with poor outcomes in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. Sepsis, direct injury to kidney cells by the virus, and severe systemic inflammation are mechanisms implicated in its development. We investigated the association between inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, D-dimer, lactate dehydrogenase, and ferritin) in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 and the development of AKI.

Methods

A prospective cohort study performed at the Civil Hospital (Dr. Juan I. Menchaca) Guadalajara, Mexico, included patients aged >18 years with a diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia confirmed by RT-PCR and who did or did not present with AKI (KDIGO) while hospitalized. Biomarkers of inflammation were recorded, and kidney function was estimated using the CKD-EPI formula.

Results

291 patients were included (68% men; mean age, 57 years). The incidence of AKI was 40.5% (118 patients); 21% developed stage 1 AKI, 6% developed stage 2 AKI, and 14% developed stage 3 AKI. The development of AKI was associated with phosphate higher (p = 0.002) (RR 1.39, CI 95% 1.13 – 1.72), high procalcitonin levels at hospital admission (p = 0.005) (RR 2.09, CI 95% 1.26-3.50), and high APACHE scores (p = 0.011) (RR 2.0, CI 95% 1.17-3.40). The survival analysis free of AKI according to procalcitonin levels and APACHE scores demonstrated a lower survival in patients with procalcitonin >0.5 ng/ml (p= 0.001) and APACHE >15 points (p = 0.004).

Conclusions

phosphate, high procalcitonin levels, and APACHE scores >15 were predictors of AKI development in patients hospitalized with COVID-19.
Cyclical Student Shifting Models in a Limited Face-to-Face Learning Modality in the time of COVID-19 Pandemic in the Philippines
Authors: Balsomo Alexander J. , Sabinay Stephen G.
Published: August 2022

Introduction

A joint memorandum circular (JMC No. 2021-001) was released by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Department of Health (DOH) in the Philippines, outlining the guidelines on the gradual reopening of higher education campuses for limited face-to-face classes during the COVID-19 pandemic. Besides the strict enforcement of health protocols, the said circular recommended for the reduction of COVID-19 reproduction number by limiting the number of students present within the campus through the adoption of a cyclical student shifting model. This study evaluates 32 cyclical 2-shift models and how these schedules minimizes COVID-19 incidence in the campus.

Method

A compartmental SEIRS model is used to simulate the number of infection for a 36-week period where the proposed 32 cyclical schedules and health protocols, such as the wearing of minimum personal protective gears and physical distancing, are inserted into the model.

Result

The simulation has shown that all of the proposed schedules result to low disease transmission as long as there is strong adherence to health protocols among students or strict implementation of health policies for at least 18 weeks; otherwise, the 4-10 cycle model is recommended, or shifting schedules with 3-4 consecutive weeks of in-campus classes when health protocols are poorly implemented.

Conclusion

The results of this study will guide university administrators in crafting their COVID-19 academic plan, especially in the selection of a suitable cyclical shifting schedule for their institution.
Identification of GTF2IRD1 as a novel transcription factor essential for acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Heshmati Yaser , Türköz Gözde , Dimitriou Marios , Harisankar Aditya , Boström Johan , Cai Huan , Kadri Nadir , Altun Mikael , Qian Hong , Walfridsson Julian
Published: August 2022

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive blood malignancy characterized by clonal accumulating of immature myeloid progenitors in the bone marrow and peripheral blood. Transcription factors are the most frequently mutated and dysregulated genes in AML and they have critical roles in AML pathogenesis and progression. In this study, we performed large-scale RNA interference screens in MLL-AF9 transformed AML cells and identified GTF2IRD1 as a novel transcription factor essential for the survival of various types of myeloid leukemic cells in vitro and in vivo, but not for primary normal hematopoietic cells. Inhibition of GTF2IRD1 reduced the frequency of primary childhood and adult AML cells, including cell populations enriched for leukemia-initiating cells. In animal models for AML, inhibition of GTF2IRD1 significantly delayed the disease progression. Inhibition of GTF2IRD1 caused an accumulation of quiescent AML cells in the G0 phase of the cell cycle but caused minor effects in apoptosis. In line with this, RNA sequencing analysis revealed a significant downregulation of E2F targets as a consequence of inhibition of GTF2IRD1. Taken together, we identified GTF2IRD1 as a transcription factor with a selective importance in AML and our findings may contribute to new therapeutic inventions for the disease.
The delta-opioid receptor bidirectionally modulates itch
Authors: Smith Kelly M. , Nguyen Eileen , Ross Sarah E
Published: August 2022

Opioid signaling has been shown to be critically important in the neuromodulation of sensory circuits in the superficial spinal cord. Agonists of the mu-opioid receptor (MOR) elicit itch, whereas agonists of the kappa-opioid receptor (KOR) have been shown to inhibit itch. Despite the clear roles of MOR and KOR for the modulation itch, whether the delta-opioid receptor (DOR) is involved in the regulation of itch remained unknown. Here, we show that intrathecal administration of DOR agonists suppresses chemical itch and that intrathecal application of DOR antagonists is sufficient to evoke itch. We identify that spinal enkephalin neurons co-express neuropeptide Y (NPY), a peptide previously implicated in the inhibition of itch. In the spinal cord, DOR overlapped with both the NPY receptor (NPY1R) and KOR, suggesting that DOR neurons represent a site for convergent itch information in the dorsal horn. Lastly, we found that neurons co-expressing DOR and KOR showed significant Fos induction following pruritogen-evoked itch. These results uncover a role for DOR in the modulation of itch in the superficial dorsal horn.

Perspective

This article reveals the role of the delta opioid receptor in itch. Intrathecal administration of delta agonists suppresses itch whereas the administration of delta antagonists is sufficient to induce itch. These studies highlight the importance of delta-opioid signaling for the modulation of itch behaviors, which may represent new targets for the management of itch disorders.
Function and Cryo-EM structures of broadly potent bispecific antibodies against multiple SARS-CoV-2 Omicron sublineages
Authors: Ren Ping , Hu Yingxia , Peng Lei , Yang Luojia , Suzuki Kazushi , Fang Zhenhao , Bai Meizhu , Zhou Liqun , Feng Yanzhi , Zou Yongji , Xiong Yong , Chen Sidi
Published: August 2022

The SARS-CoV-2 variant, Omicron (B.1.1.529), rapidly swept the world since its emergence. Compared with previous variants, Omicron has a high number of mutations, especially those in its spike glycoprotein that drastically dampen or abolish the efficacy of currently available vaccines and therapeutic antibodies. Several major sublineages of Omicron evolved, including BA.1, BA.1.1, BA.2, BA.2.12.1, BA.3, BA.4/5, and BA.2.75, which rapidly changing the global and regional landscape of the pandemic. Although vaccines are available, therapeutic antibodies remain critical for infected and especially hospitalized patients. To address this, we have designed and generated a panel of human/humanized therapeutic bispecific antibodies against Omicron and its sub-lineage variants, with activity spectrum against other lineages. Among these, the top clone CoV2-0213 has broadly potent activities against multiple SARS-CoV-2 ancestral and Omicron lineages, including BA.1, BA.1.1, BA.2, BA.2.12.1, BA.3, BA.4/5, and BA.2.75. We have solved the cryo-EM structure of the lead bi-specific antibody CoV-0213 and its major Fab arm MB.02. Three-dimensional structural analysis shows distinct epitope of antibody - spike receptor binding domain (RBD) interactions and reveals that both Fab fragments of CoV2-0213 can simultaneously target one single spike RBD or two adjacent ones in the same spike trimer, further corroborating its mechanism of action. CoV2-0213 represents a unique and potent broad-spectrum SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing bispecific antibody (nbsAb) against the currently circulating major Omicron variants (BA.1, BA.1.1, BA.2, BA.2.12.1, BA.2.75, BA.3, and BA.4/5). CoV2-0213 is primarily human and ready for translational testing as a countermeasure against the ever-evolving pathogen.
Adoption of a learning management system among educators of advanced technological institutes in Sri Lanka
Authors: Mohamed Riyath Mohamed Ismail , Muhammed Rijah Uthuma Lebbe
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The study investigates the factors that impact the adoption of learning management systems (LMSs) among educators for effective implementation of open and distance learning (ODL) environment in advanced technological institutes (ATIs).

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses the extended technology acceptance model (TAM) and analyses data using the partial least square–based structural equation modelling approach to validate the construct and test proposed hypotheses. Data were collected through an online questionnaire from the respondents.

Findings

This study reveals that perceived self-efficacy and job relevance significantly impact perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use (PEU). PU, PEU and service quality significantly impact attitudes of educators, which impact their behavioural intention and actual use of LMS as a chain reaction.

Practical implications

The management should organise hands-on training sessions to improve educators' computer self-efficacy and explain the importance of the LMS and its features to offer an effective ODL environment for delivering high-quality education.

Originality/value

The previous studies focused on LMS use from the students' point of view rather than educators. This study investigates educators' LMS adoption in ATIs using the extended TAM. The findings may be helpful for management to implement an effective ODL environment that offers fully integrated distance learning and e-learning during the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic.
Distress, anxiety, boredom, and their relation to the interior spaces under COVID-19 lockdowns
Authors: Diker Berk , Demirkan Halime
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This research is based on the idea that interior elements leave a wide variety of impressions on their occupants and that some interiors are likely to have more positive impressions than others. These impressions are especially prevalent when an individual cannot leave their homes for extended periods. The architectural elements of an interior where people are isolated can mitigate the adverse psychological effects.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted by surveying individuals under lockdown because of the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 140 participants completed three different scales (GAD-7, K10, FTB Scale) to measure mental health problems often experienced in isolated and confined environments. Their responses were then associated with the interior environments of the participants.

Findings

Statistically significant relationships were identified between the reported interiors and the results of the psychological evaluations. The level of psychological distress was associated with Volume and Visual Variety factors. Susceptibility to generalized anxiety disorder was associated with Visual Variety and Airiness factors. Finally, free time boredom was associated with Volume, Visual Variety, and Airiness factors. The Furniture and Clutter factor did not significantly contribute to any of the psychological evaluations.

Originality/value

The study was performed in response to the severe lockdown measures taken in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. It successfully highlighted the need for a rethinking of interior design approaches regarding the design for isolated and confined environments.
Investment and economic growth: do institutions and economic freedom matter?
Authors: Addi Haman Mahamat , Abubakar Attahir Babaji
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This paper analyzes the effect of institutional quality and economic freedom on investment and economic growth in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).

Design/methodology/approach

Focusing on a panel of 27 countries, the study employed the panel fixed and random effect models to analyze data spanning from 2005 to 2018. The study also employed the Wu–Hausman test to determine if the endogeneity problem exists in the model.

Findings

The findings of the study show that individually, an improvement in economic freedom stimulates economic growth while the improvement in institutional quality is effective in spurring investment. However, the interaction effect of improvement in institutional quality and economic freedom is the stimulation of both investment and economic growth. The findings are robust to alternative model specifications.

Practical implications

The study implies that for SSA countries to effectively achieve higher investment and economic growth outcomes, there is the need to simultaneously strengthen institutional quality and improve economic freedom. Focusing on either of the factors without the other leads to less desirable growth and investment outcomes.

Originality/value

The study examined the combined influence of institutional quality and economic freedom on investment and growth in SSA. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no study has investigated this in the context of SSA.
Attracting a geographically diverse patient base: who is willing to travel for hospital care?
Authors: Thornton Michele , Howard Lindsey , Martin William Marty
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Medical tourism, characterized by patients leaving their home community to seek health-care services elsewhere, is on the rise globally. In New York state, approximately 5% of the 35,661,559 hospital visits in 2018 were non-residents. Although some are visiting New York for other reasons, and unintentionally wind up hospitalized – a percentage of this population come to New York intentionally to seek care. Understanding the make-up, needs and patterns of this population allows hospitals to tailor investments in marketing, technological resources and culturally responsive initiatives to prepare for broadening their patient population and remain competitive globally.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a rich all-hospital discharge data set, the authors identify patterns in diagnoses, treatment and hospital choice of patients who intentionally travel across borders for health care. The authors model the characteristics associated with “elective” admit patients with a multivariate logistic regression approach.

Findings

The authors find that among non-resident patients in New York, domestic travelers, those using insurance plans for payment and women are positively associated with seeking elective inpatient care across border. There are clear patterns of type of treatment that is more likely to be sought, with care for musculoskeletal concerns accounting for more than one-third of all non-resident elective admissions. Proximity also matters, both in terms of patients being more likely to live in a travel zone adjacent to the state, as well as being more likely to seek care from hospitals in counties closest to the borders.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study, using a large set of claims data, that is able to empirically differentiate between patients who travel to NY for the primary purpose of obtaining health care versus those who emergently must access care while traveling for other reasons. This approach can inform future studies seeking to better understand patient migration patterns and strategic educational and marketing initiatives to motivate consumers to cross borders to seek care.
Research on sustainability leadership in higher education: a scoping review
Authors: Aung Pwint Nee , Hallinger Philip
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Despite the centrality of leadership to the successful transformation of universities toward sustainability, the literature on the role and practices of sustainability leadership in higher education remains poorly developed. To address this gap, this study aims to develop a conceptual model of sustainability leadership in higher education.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts the scoping review method to review, critique and synthesize relevant literature.

Findings

The resulting model of sustainability leadership in higher education proposes that sustainability leadership in higher education has the potential to transform university practices through reorientation and stewardship of the institutional mission and strengthening the commitment of stakeholders. Sustainability leadership has the potential to create a positive effect on a balanced set of performance indicators, as well as contributing to institutional and societal resilience in the longer term.

Originality/value

Sustainability leadership in higher education should be given prominence in its own right due to the unique organizational context of universities. This study synthesized the current discourse on sustainability leadership in higher education and its distinct attributes toward sustainable development.
The effect of advertising strategies on a short video platform: evidence from TikTok
Authors: Yuan Lin , Xia Hao , Ye Qiang
Published: August 2022

Purpose

There are two major strategies for short video advertising which are KOL (key opinion leader) endorsement and in-feed advertising. The authors aim to research the effectiveness of these two strategies for heterogeneous sellers.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed a data set of users from Douyin. Using an endogenous treatment model, the study empirically examines the two strategies' effectiveness in attracting product traffic for online retailors at a short video app Douyin (TikTok).

Findings

The results show that the performance of in-feed advertising is higher when the seller's product is of lower price and when the seller has smaller cumulative video exposure. In addition, KOL endorsement is effective regardless of the product price, but performs better when the seller has larger cumulative video exposure.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is one of the first to explore the interaction effects of two major advertising strategies, KOL endorsement and in-feed advertising on short video platforms. The findings provide important theoretical contributions and practical implications.
Knowledge management process as a mediator between collaborative culture and frugal innovation: the moderating role of perceived organizational support
Authors: Shehzad Muhammad Usman , Zhang Jianhua , Alam Sajjad , Cao Ziao , Boamah Fredrick Ahenkora , Ahmad Mubashir
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Drawing on the knowledge-based view (KBV), the purpose of the study is to examine the impact of collaborative culture (CC) on frugal innovation (FI). It also advances insight into the pathways for stimulating distinct aspects of innovation capacity by assessing the mediating effects of knowledge management (KM) processes and the moderating role of perceived organizational support (POS).

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the data gathered from 430 participants from 80 Pakistani manufacturing and service firms, this study used structural equation modeling to evaluate hypotheses in the established research model.

Findings

The findings reveal that CC positively fosters the KM processes and different aspects of FI. The results indicated the positive direct impact of KM processes on frugal functionality (FF) and frugal cost (FC) while insignificant on the frugal ecosystem (FE). This study found partial mediation of KM processes on the relationship among CC, FF and FC, but the KM process does not mediate the relationship between CC and FE. The results also demonstrated that POS moderation enhances the impacts of CC on KM processes and FF while notably weakening the impacts of CC on FC and FE.

Research limitations/implications

To understand the crucial role of knowledge capital in companies’ innovation capability, future research should examine the mediating function of KM capability (knowledge process capability and knowledge infrastructure capability) and moderating role of environmental turbulence in the relationship between CC and different aspects of innovation capability.

Practical implications

This study significantly advances a better understanding of the relationship between CC and specific facets of innovation capacity by emphasizing the importance of driving the KM process and improving POS.

Originality/value

This study has contributed to the theoretical and practical efforts on KBV, emphasizing the critical importance of CC in fostering a conducive environment for KM processes and innovation.
Customer experience: knowledge mapping based on CiteSpace V analysis
Authors: Li Chunqing , He Wenhua , Sheng Hong
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The main purpose of this study is to summarize the key literature about research on customer experience, understand the evolution of research hotspots in this research field, build a general theoretical framework on customer experience research and finally point out directions for future research in customer experience.

Design/methodology/approach

Using CiteSpace V software which is a scientific measurement tool, this study conducts a systematic analysis of relevant literature on customer experience, and develops a general framework of customer experience research based on analysis of time-zone of citations and time-line visual knowledge map of keywords.

Findings

Based on the results of the authors’ analysis, this study found that customer experience research mainly includes the following three research areas: (1) Research on the definition and extension of customer experience; (2) Research on the influencing factors of customer experience: from both enterprise perspective and customer perspective; (3) Research on the outcomes and consequences of customer experience. The authors also analyzed the research methods used in customer experience research and found that quantitative research method based on regression model was most commonly used. Finally, the authors identified gaps in the current literature and put forward the directions for future research from four aspects: to further the understanding of the concept of customer experience; to identify more relevant influencing factors of customer experience; to explore the outcomes and consequences of customer experience; and to diversify research methods in customer experience research.

Originality/value

Overall, this study not only provides an important reference for further research in the field of customer experience, but also offers important insights to the practice.
The mental health information needs of Chinese university students and their use of online resources: a holistic model
Authors: Li Xuguang , Luo Xiaoying , Cox Andrew , Zhang Yao , Lu Yingying
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This research aims to explore the nature of Chinese students' mental health information needs and to identify the online resources they use to meet those needs.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected from three Chinese research-oriented universities using semi-structured interviews and a survey. Twenty-five university students with varied backgrounds were selected for semi-structured interviews to explore the triggers and nature of their needs. Then, printed and online questionnaires were distributed to undergraduate and postgraduate students and 541 valid responses were processed for descriptive statistical analysis and variance analysis.

Findings

The following findings were incurred. First, the triggers of university students' mental health information needs mainly are mental health being in the news, personal interest in gaining mental health knowledge, mental health issues, required formal learning and preparation for mental health counselling. Second, eleven types of information are used, with an emphasis on employment pressure, study stress and self-understanding. Third, mental health information needs differ with mental health status and some social-demographic factors (including gender, urban or rural origin and educational stage). Fourth, information needs can be characterized as dynamic; complex and diverse but concentrated on a few types; ambiguous and hard for participants to define; private; stigmatized; self-dependent and substitutable. Fifth, Internet sources used to meet such needs are mainly search engines, Question and Answer platforms, public social media platforms. Finally, a model of mental health information needs was built based on the above findings to map the whole process from what triggers a need, to the content and characteristics of information need, and online resources used to meet those needs.

Practical implications

The paper provides suggestions for university mental health services in developing more tailored knowledge contents via effective delivery methods to meet diverse needs of student groups.

Originality/value

This research is novel in using empirical data to build a holistic model that captures the context and the nature of mental health information needs of university students.
A qualitative exploratory study of training requirements for general practitioners attending older people resident in care homes
Authors: Ruaux Sarah , Chadborn Neil
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Older people who reside in care homes have varying access and quality of medical care; in the UK, this is provided by general practitioners (GPs). The authors aimed to explore the experiences of trainee GPs in delivering integrated care and discuss, with senior GPs, opportunities to improve training.

Design/methodology/approach

Two trainees and thirteen senior GPs were recruited through professional networks and participated in semi-structured interviews. Transcriptions were analysed using thematic analysis, and the theory of negotiated order was used to interpret findings.

Findings

Trainees received no specific training on working with care homes. Exposure to the care home setting was variable, and could be negligible, depending on the GP practice placement. Senior GPs expressed concerns about patient safety, due to practical challenges of the consultation and a sense of lack of control. Considering the theory of negotiated order, where GPs had trusting relationships with care home staff, the input of the staff could mitigate the sense of risk. Care plans could communicate needs and preferences within the team and may be a way of extending the negotiated order, for example giving care homes authority to implement end-of-life care when the GP is not present.

Research limitations/implications

The authors identified a need for trainees to engage with the organisational aspect of the care home to deliver integrated care. Trusted relationships with staff led to improved consultations, care plans, and better management of risk.

Originality/value

This is the first study of learning needs for GP trainees to provide integrated care for older care home residents.
Driving organisational change in SMEs using service design
Authors: Salgado Maricela , De Castro Martínez María Valeria , Marcos Martínez Esperanza , López-Sanz Marcos , Martín-Peña María Luz
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to present a service design (SD)-based methodology developed to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) undertake organisational change.

Design/methodology/approach

This research used the design science research methodology, which enabled the creation of the Service Design for Organisational Change (SD4OCh) methodology. A real case study of a small service company specialised in neuropsychological disorders was used for the definition and validation of SD4OCh.

Findings

The main outcome of this study is the SD4OCh methodology, which is based on three key stages: diagnosis (knowing where to begin by detecting the organisation's strengths and weaknesses), innovation (improving the structure/processes and designing/redesigning services by employing a customer-centric approach), and implementation (enabling the definition of the route towards organisational change). There is also a transversal evaluation stage, which quantifies the organisational changes.

Research limitations/implications

This study adds valuable knowledge to the service science research field and contributes to the awareness of the usefulness of SD theory within companies, especially those which are small and medium-sized, since those companies lack the tools and methods required to tackle organisational change, signifying that the challenges the companies confront are different to those of larger companies.

Originality/value

Although this is a SD-based research, the SD4OCh methodology was developed in order to enable companies to make holistic changes, namely, to innovate their services, structure, and processes, thus supporting and guiding organisational change.
Big-4 auditors and audit quality: a novel firm life-cycle approach
Authors: Jain Sonali , Agarwalla Sobhesh Kumar
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Firm-specific factors such as size, profitability, growth, risk and complexity, in addition to agency-related issues determine both auditor selection and firm life-cycle stage. This paper aims to examine whether and how the effect of Big-4 auditors (B4As) on client firms’ audit quality varies across firms’ life-cycle stages.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample comprises 1,813 firm-year observations in India’s emerging economy from 2011 to 2020. The Modified Jones model and Jones (signed, unsigned) model are used to compute discretionary accruals/audit quality. The authors use Koh et al.’s (2015) methodology to determine the firm life cycle.

Findings

The authors’ key findings show that the client firms employing B4As have superior audit quality than those employing non-Big-4 auditors (NB4As). The authors also show that the life-cycle stage significantly impacts the relationship between B4As and a firm’s audit quality. Furthermore, B4A client firms report superior audit quality vis-à-vis NB4A firms only in the birth- and decline-stages. The audit quality of growth- and mature-stage B4A and NB4A client firms is not significantly different.

Practical implications

Implications for managers include the decision to hire B4As. Given that B4As earn a significant fee premium, managers leading birth- and decline-stage firms should hire B4As, while managers of growth- and mature-stage firms should not.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first paper to examine the moderating effect of the firm life-cycle stage on the selection of B4As and their impact on audit quality.
Turnover intentions: the roles of job satisfaction and family support
Authors: Le Huong , Lee Joohan , Nielsen Ingrid , Nguyen Thi Lan Anh
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This paper examines the factors that influence the work attitudes of employees and the conditional effects of family support on the job demand–turnover intention relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used a sample of 231 employees working in the manufacturing industry in Vietnam to test the conceptual model.

Findings

Drawing upon the job demands-resources (JD-R) model and job embeddedness theory, the authors found that employees' psychological capital and family support influenced turnover intentions through enhancing their job satisfaction. The authors also found that the influence of job demands on turnover intentions was altered when employees had higher levels of family support.

Originality/value

This study provides important insights for human resource managers regarding what may influence employees' job satisfaction and turnover intentions. The findings advance turnover literature by highlighting the important roles of both internal resources (psychological capital) and external resources (family support) in influencing employee turnover intentions in Vietnam.
Factors influencing online luxury purchase intentions: the moderating role of bandwagon luxury consumption behavior
Authors: Jain Sheetal
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Despite the fact that online is predicted to become the major channel for luxury purchases by 2025, there is scant literature related to online luxury buying behavior, mainly in the context of Generation Y (Gen Y) consumers in emerging societies like India. Therefore, the primary objective of this study is to empirically test the theoretical framework developed to assess the factors influencing luxury consumers' online shopping behavior based on the stimulus-organism-response model and technology acceptance model (TAM).

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 233 Gen Y luxury consumers in India via purposive sampling method. The study used AMOS and PROCESS SPSS Macro to establish the overall fit of the measurement model and examine the hypotheses.

Findings

The findings revealed that perceived usefulness of buying online, perceived ease of buying online, economic benefit and webstore quality have significant impact on online luxury purchase intention. The perceived experiential values and perceived functional values mediate the influence of antecedent variables on online luxury purchase intention. Bandwagon luxury consumption behavior (BLCB) moderates the relationship between perceived functional values and online purchase intention.

Originality/value

This is one of the pioneer studies conducted to understand the influence of BLCB on value–intention relationship in online space among Gen Y luxury consumers. This study will help luxury retailers to create targeted strategies for this segment.
Monetizing social value in sports clubs
Authors: Mendizabal Leiñena Xabier , San-Jose Leire , García-Merino Jose-Domingo
Published: August 2022

Purpose

European elite professional basketball clubs do not pursue economic profit maximization per se, but they also seek to create social value for stakeholders due to the community outreach and the emotional bonding that such organizations create. Here the purpose of this paper is to use an accounting system called social accounting to measure the social effects of an organization's activity in an effort to monetize and describe the holistic value created by these sports organizations for their stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applies an adapted, redesigned social accounting using SPOLY methodology to two elite basketball clubs in the ACB League (Spanish First Division), in order to monetize their social value. This methodology integrates non-market social value (value created for stakeholders without a financial transaction) with market social value (value created for stakeholders through market transactions), by monetizing validated dimensions for non-market and market social value obtained via information provided by clubs and their financial statements.

Findings

Clubs create a quantifiable social value for stakeholders through non-market and market dimensions. Value creation is not merely restricted to securing financial profit for shareholders but rather takes on another dimension in which the various stakeholders receive a holistic value from clubs.

Originality/value

This study provides evidence that clubs generate a quantifiable social value for their stakeholders that complements their economic value. This can help clubs to set up their own narrative concerning value creation for stakeholders and enable them to convey and manage the overall distributed value for stakeholders.
To study the comparison and effect of Six Sigma and Red Bin Analysis in Indian manufacturing industries
Authors: Shandilya Sumit , Arora Jaskiran , Kalluri Vinayak
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Continued quest for business improvement in terms of enhanced productivity and cost cuts is the most valued strategic function in an organization. Towards this endeavor, there have been evolutions of many problem-solving techniques like Lean, quality control (QC) tools, Six Sigma, total productive maintenance (TPM), etc. This paper introduces a different problem-solving methodology for quality improvement – prepare, measure, define, establish, control and stabilize (PMDECS) approach of Red Bin Analysis (RBA) – and presents empirical evidence of its effectiveness in eliminating the defectives at source (parts per million [PPM]) and improving the process capability (Cp).

Design/Methodology/Approach

An attempt has been made to compare RBA with the Six Sigma methodology in terms of number of defects, defectives, process capabilities, project duration, etc. Data validation with more than 2000 data points was conducted based on empirical data collected over multiple problem-solving projects conducted in six manufacturing industries of India to compare the effectiveness of both the methods. Finally, fuzzy AHP (analytical hierarchy process) model was proposed to identify the Quality Improvement Index for both the methods to address the manager’s dilemma in selecting an appropriate problem-solving method.

Findings

The paper provides empirical insights in establishing that the PMDECS approach of RBA is at par and sometimes better for problem-solving if the problem is not chronic and is at the initial stages, it requires less duration than Six Sigma projects and except casting process and it can yield better results in case of PPM rejection or Cp/Cpk improvement in other processes.

Research limitations/implications

Because of the chosen research approach, the research results may lack generalizability. This research has been specifically conducted in automotive manufacturing industries. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to test the proposed propositions further.

Practical implications

The paper includes implications for the usage of alternative problem-solving methods, like PMDECS approach of RBA.

Originality/value

This paper intends to compare how the results of six sigma projects in manufacturing industries are effective against a different methodology, PMDECS approach of RBA.
Impact of lifetime lactation on the risk and duration of frequent vasomotor symptoms: A longitudinal dose–response analysis
Authors: Scime Natalie V. , Shea Alison K. , Faris Peter D. , Brennand Erin A.
Published: August 2022

Objective

To examine the association between lifetime lactation and risk and duration of frequent vasomotor symptoms (VMS).

Design

Prospective cohort.

Setting

USA, 1995–2008.

Sample

2356 parous midlife women in the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation.

Methods

Lifetime lactation was defined as the duration of breastfeeding across all births in months. We used generalised estimating equations to analyse risk of frequent VMS and Cox regression to analyse duration of frequent VMS in years.

Main outcome measures

Frequent VMS (hot flashes and night sweats) were measured annually for 10 years, defined as occurring ≥6 days in the past 2 weeks.

Results

Overall, 57.1% of women reported hot flashes and 43.0% reported night sweats during follow‐up. Lifetime lactation was inversely associated with hot flashes plateauing at 12 months of breastfeeding (6 months: adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 0.85, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.75–0.96; 12 months: AOR 0.78, 95% CI 0.65–0.93) and was inversely associated with night sweats in a downward linear fashion (6 months: AOR 0.93, 95% CI 0.81–1.08; 18 months: AOR 0.82, 95% CI 0.67–1.02; 30 months: AOR 0.73, 95% CI 0.56–0.97). Lifetime lactation was associated with shorter duration of hot flashes and night sweats in a quadratic (bell‐shaped) fashion. The association was strongest at 12–18 months of breastfeeding and significant for hot flashes (6 months: adjusted hazard ratio [AHR] 1.35, 95% CI 1.11–1.65; 18 months: AHR 1.54, 95% CI 1.16–2.03; 30 months: AHR 1.18, 95% CI 0.83–1.68).

Conclusions

Longer lifetime lactation is associated with decreased risk and duration of frequent VMS.
Induction of labour and caesarean delivery rates: the need for a national and international consensus
Authors: Jauniaux Eric
Published: August 2022

Linked article: This is a mini commentary for on Gurol‐Urganci et al., pp. 1899–1906 in this issue. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/1471‐0528.17193
The Post‐earnings Announcement Drift: A Pre‐earnings Announcement Effect? A Multi‐period Analysis
Authors: Richardson A. William , Veenstra Kevin
Published: August 2022

For many years, the post‐earnings announcement drift (PEAD) has been accepted as an anomaly to the efficient markets hypothesis. This drift subsequent to earnings announcements has been ascribed to the incomplete incorporation by the market of the information in these earnings announcements. Interestingly, over the past five decades of extensive research, no rational economic explanation of the PEAD has been found. In addition, there has been no specific consideration of the effect of new economic information subsequent to the earnings announcements. Our multi‐year examination of the cumulative abnormal return (CAR) incorporates the effect of economic information subsequent to the earnings announcement of traditional PEAD studies. Our analysis shows that a drift of CAR versus time can arise without recourse to invoking market inefficiency. Our results are consistent for three samples covering the period 1974–2016. We do not assert that we prove that there is no component of the traditional PEAD due to market inefficiency. Rather, our results show that studies to determine whether there is a market inefficiency component of the PEAD should use a multi‐period approach in order to account for the effect of economic information subsequent to the earnings announcements and thereby focus more precisely upon the cause of the PEAD reported in previous research studies.
Propensity‐score‐matched analysis of D2 and D3 right hemicolectomy for colon cancer
Authors: Tan Ming Ngan Aloysius , Liu Biquan , Lin Norman Sihan , Liu Hui Min , Loong Tse Han , How Kwang Yeong , Lim Gek Hsiang , Wong Kar Yong
Published: August 2022

Background

Complete mesocolic excision with D3 lymph node dissection in right‐sided colon cancer is associated with improved oncological outcomes, but can potentially be associated with higher rates of complications compared to conventional D2 right hemicolectomy. This study aims to evaluate the oncological and perioperative outcomes of patients who underwent D3 right hemicolectomy, comparing to conventional right hemicolectomy.

Methods

From 2015 to 2020, 360 patients underwent right hemicolectomy for colonic malignancies. Data was retrospectively analysed from a prospectively collected database. A propensity‐score‐matched analysis was performed between the two groups to evaluate their outcomes.

Results

About 88(24.4%) patients underwent D3 right hemicolectomy, with the rest undergoing D2 right hemicolectomy. After propensity‐matched analysis, D3 right hemicolectomy had a higher lymph node yield (median of 26 versus 23, p = 0.005), lower overall recurrence rate (11.7% versus 25.7%, p = 0.03), and lower overall mortality rate (14.5% versus 30.1%, p = 0.02) There were no significant differences in the complication rates. There were no anastomotic leaks. D3 right hemicolectomy was associated with an improved 3‐year disease‐free survival (DFS) with a hazard ratio of 0.63 (P = 0.21), and also an improved 3‐year overall survival (OS) with a hazard ratio of 0.68 (P = 0.31).

Conclusion

D3 right hemicolectomy is associated with a higher lymph node yield, without increasing morbidity or mortality. It is also associated with significantly lower recurrence and overall mortality rates in this study. Short term 3‐year DFS and OS also trend towards favouring D3 right hemicolectomy. However, this study is limited by the small sample size and retrospective nature.
Outcomes of laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery in a non‐metropolitan Australian hospital: audit of 120 patients with long‐term follow‐up results
Authors: Wichmann Matthias W. , McCullough Timothy K. , Beukes Eben , Gunning Thomas , Maddern Guy J.
Published: August 2022

Background

Laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery has been shown to produce comparable oncological long‐term results as well as improved short‐term outcomes compared to open surgery in multicentre trials. Limited information is available whether these results are reproduced in non‐metropolitan surgery.

Methods

Audit of prospectively collected follow‐up data in a rural surgical centre in South Australia. Short‐ and long‐term results of colorectal cancer patients undergoing elective laparoscopic surgery for cure. Outcomes are compared with results of open surgery.

Results

Survival and clinical data of 120 patients after laparoscopic resection were analysed and then benchmarked against results of 157 open resections. Conversion rate was 10.8% (N = 13). Mean patient age was 69.9 years. Mean number of lymph nodes analysed was 15.5. Mean follow‐up is 53.0 months. Thirty‐day mortality was 0.36% (n = 1) and 90‐day mortality was 0.72% (n = 2). No differences in complications rates, long term survival or procedures performed were observed. This is a single centre audit of clinical and oncological outcomes and a number of exclusion criteria were applied. Patient gender, cancer stages as well as number of patients undergoing neoadjuvant radio‐chemotherapy differ significantly between the study and the benchmarking group. Patients were not randomized and the benchmarking group is in part a historical control.

Conclusions

This audit of clinical outcomes and survival after laparoscopic CRC resection for cure indicates that minimal invasive surgery may be suitable for adequately staffed and equipped rural centres.