bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Learner attitudes, satisfaction and success in online learning environments: a mediation-moderation model for higher educational institutions
Authors: Sokro Evans , Obuobisa-Darko Theresa , Okpattah Bernard
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study examines learner satisfaction and success as mechanisms through which online learning quality translates into learners’ continuous intentions of use by extending DeLone and McLean’s information system success model. It also examines the moderating effect of perceived supervisory support and learners’ self-regulation on online learning quality in Higher Education Institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data were obtained from 540 students in both private and public higher institutions of learning in Ghana. The Partial Least Squares – Structural Equations Modelling (PLS-SEM) technique was used to test the hypothesised relationships.

Findings

The results revealed that system quality emerged as the single most important variable in the DeLone and McLean model, that influences learner success and satisfaction. Further, learner satisfaction has a significant positive effect on learner attitudes, whilst self-regulation was found to moderate the relationship between online learning quality and learner success as well as learner satisfaction.

Originality/value

The study appears to be among the first to explore the inter-relationship among online learning environment quality and learner attitudes and moderating factors perceived supervisory support and self-regulation. The study highlights insightful practical implications for students, faculty and administrators of higher institutions.
Path planning for robotic fish based on improved RRT* algorithm and dynamic window approach
Authors: Fu Yong , Chen Kun , He Li , Wang Hui Tan
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address two major challenges faced by robotic fish when operating in underwater environments: insufficient path planning capabilities and difficulties in avoiding dynamic obstacles. To achieve this, a method is proposed that combines the Improved Rapid Randomized Tree Star (IRRT*) with the dynamic window approach (DWA).

Design/methodology/approach

The RRT-connect algorithm is used to determine an initial feasible path quickly. The quality of sampling points is then improved by dividing the regions and selecting each region’s probability based on its fitness value. The fitness function and roulette wheel method are introduced for region selection. Subtarget points of the DWA algorithm are extracted from the IRRT* algorithm to achieve real-time dynamic path planning.

Findings

In various maps, the iteration count for the IRRT* algorithm decreased by 61%, 35% and 51% respectively, compared to the RRT* algorithm, whereas the iteration time was reduced by 75%, 34% and 57%, respectively. In addition, the IRRT*-DWA algorithm can successfully navigate through multiple dynamic obstacles, and the average time, path length, etc. do not change much when parameters change, and the stability is high.

Originality/value

A novel IRRT*-DWA algorithm is proposed, which, by refining the sampling strategy and updating sub-target points in real time, not only addresses the limitations of existing algorithms in terms of path planning efficiency in complex environments but also enhances their capability to avoid dynamic obstacles. Ultimately, experimental results indicate a high level of similarity between the actual and ideal paths.
Digital trading networks and competitive advantage in a buyer-seller network
Authors: Straub Detmar , Warkentin Merrill , Rai Arun , Ding Yi
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Firms embedded in networks of relations are theorized through Gnyawali and Madhavan’s (2001) (G&M) structural embeddedness model to gain competitive advantage from topological characteristics. Empirical studies to support their theory have never been executed in full. Our study provided a full empirical test of their model in a digital trading network to achieve a higher degree of certainty that those network structural characteristics can have a major impact on the degree to which certain firms lead to competitiveness in a digital trading network environment.

Design/methodology/approach

To examine how firms respond in competitive situations, we chose the hyper-active digital trading network, eBay as our empirical context. We used eBay auction data to analyze how the network characteristics of eBay resellers impact their competitive behaviors.

Findings

Our study found strong support for the G&M model of competitiveness. We offer explanations for where support was not as strong as the Gynawali and Madavan theory proposes.

Research limitations/implications

Our research is limited by our chosen context and findings in support of part of G&M model. Future studies in other digital contexts are needed to enhance the modeling of network topologies and further study the impacts of network density and structural autonomy on competitive action.

Practical implications

Our study suggests that managers proceed cautiously in forming partnerships, weighing circumstances where the firm can find itself with increased information power and avoiding, to the greatest extent possible, situations where the playing field is roughly equal.

Social implications

Theory-making in this domain has begun as well as initial empirical testing. Much more needs to be accomplished, though, before embeddedness modeling can be thought of as being well established.

Originality/value

The G& M Model of competitiveness is an SNA explanation of why some competitive units succeed and others do not. Our study is the first, full blown empirical analysis of the theory.
A multi-criteria decision-making model for heavy construction equipment replacement in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alshibani Adel , El Ghazzawi Youssef Ahmed , Mohammed Awsan , Ghaithan Ahmed M. , Hassanain Mohammad A.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a novel model that addresses the limitations of current practices, through considering quantitative and qualitative criteria in the decision-making process for equipment replacement.

Design/methodology/approach

Literature review and consultation with professionals in the heavy construction industry was conducted to identify the criteria influencing the replacement of construction machines. A questionnaire survey using analytic hierarchy process and multi-attribute utility theory was used to rank these criteria and establish their utility scores. Sensitivity analysis was performed to assess how adjustments in the weights of main criteria would impact equipment replacement decisions.

Findings

The identified criteria were classified into three categories: economic, technical and socioenvironmental, encompassing a total of 15 criteria. The findings indicated that salvage value/meeting payback period/maximizing profitability held the highest importance in the replacement process, followed by considerations like high repair and maintenance cost; working condition and economic conditions. Safety and social benefits scored the least among all criteria and categories.

Research limitations/implications

This study focuses on earth-moving equipment and involves experts from the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. The model introduces a novel methodology to aid decision-makers, particularly contractors and project managers, in determining when to replace heavy construction equipment, which results in resource efficiency and time saving.

Originality/value

The model integrates expertise and knowledge from experts to establish criteria for replacing construction equipment. This research aims to improve the functionality of the decision-making process regarding the acquisition or replacement of equipment throughout its lifespan.
Small talk and knowledge sharing: a moderated dual-facilitating pathway model based on interpersonal trust and perceived similarity
Authors: Yuan Yunyun , Liu Pingqing , Liu Bin , Cui Zunkang
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate how small talk interaction affects knowledge sharing, examining the mediating role of interpersonal trust (affect- and cognition-based trust) and the moderating role of perceived similarity among the mechanisms of small talk and knowledge sharing.

Design/methodology/approach

This research conducts complementary studies and collects multi-culture and multi-wave data to test research hypotheses and adopts structural equation modeling to validate the whole conceptual model.

Findings

The research findings first reveal two trust mechanisms linking small talk and knowledge sharing. Meanwhile, the perceived similarity between employees, specifically, strengthens the affective pathway of trust rather than the cognitive pathway of trust.

Originality/value

This study combines Interaction Ritual Theory and constructs a dual-facilitating pathway approach that aims to reveal the impact of small talk on knowledge sharing, describing how and when small talk could generate a positive effect on knowledge sharing. This research provides intriguing and dynamic insights into understanding knowledge sharing processes.
Testing the waters! The role of ethical leadership towards innovative work behavior through psychosocial well-being and perceived organizational support
Authors: Islam Talat , Zulfiqar Itrat , Aftab Hira , Alkharabsheh Omar Hamdan Mohammad , Shahid Muhammad Khalid
Published: May 2024

Purpose

In response to the dynamic demands of the contemporary business landscape, this study critically examines the pivotal role of ethical leadership in shaping employee’s innovative behavior within organizations. Our research delves into the nuanced interplay between ethical leadership, psychological well-being and innovative work behavior. Drawing from the principles of social exchange theory, our study addresses a critical gap in the literature by exploring the mediating role of psychological well-being in the relationship between ethical leadership and employees' innovative work behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

In this quantitative research, data were collected from 384 employees and their direct supervisors in Pakistan’s IT sector using “Google Forms” through a convenience sampling method facilitated by the “LinkedIn” platform. Additionally, the study applied a two-stage structural equation modeling approach, first to assess the uni-dimensionality, and subsequently, to evaluate the proposed hypotheses.

Findings

The research results unveiled a robust and positive impact of ethical leadership on innovative work behavior, operating through both direct and indirect pathways mediated by psychological well-being. Intriguingly, the moderating role of perceived organizational support adds depth to our understanding, revealing nuanced conditions under which ethical leadership influences employees' well-being and, subsequently, their innovative contributions.

Practical implications

Beyond theoretical contributions, our study provides practical insights for managers seeking to leverage employees' innovative work behavior for organizational success. By emphasizing ethical leadership as a catalyst, we advocate for its integration into HRM practices. However, recognizing the contextual nature of organizational support, our findings underscore the importance of adaptable leadership strategies to maximize positive outcomes.

Originality/value

Grounded in the principles of social exchange theory, this research marks a pioneering effort to shed light on the link between ethical leadership and innovative work behavior through the mediation of psychological well-being. Additionally, this study makes a valuable contribution to the current body of knowledge by investigating the contingent influence of perceived organizational support on the relationship between ethical leadership and employees' psychological well-being.
A maturity-driven selection model for effective digital transformation governance mechanisms in large organizations
Authors: HosseiniNasab Seyed Mahdi
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This research paper aims to conceptualize digital transformation governance and its conventional mechanisms and to present governance solutions tailored to an organization’s level of digital maturity. The objective is to provide a framework for large organizations to select appropriate governance mechanisms based on their digital maturity level, enabling them to effectively manage and govern their digital transformation journey.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs a meta-synthesis methodology, systematically reviewing and synthesizing findings from 175 academic papers and 31 reports/white papers. The research involves a rigorous qualitative approach, including literature search, selection of relevant texts, information extraction, analysis of qualitative findings, quality control and presentation of findings.

Findings

The proposed model suggests a three-tiered approach to digital transformation governance based on the organization’s digital maturity: “beginner,” “intermediate” and “advanced” stages. The findings indicate that as an organization advances in its digital maturity, its governance mechanism tends to be less centralized and involves multiple relevant units. Conversely, organizations with lower digital maturity require a more concentrated approach to digital governance.

Research limitations/implications

The study is based on a systematic review and synthesis of existing literature. Further empirical research could validate and refine the proposed model.

Practical implications

By using the proposed maturity-driven model, organizations can choose a more suitable and effective governance mechanism for the realization of their digital transformation roadmap based on their digital maturity level. The model offers a comprehensive framework for selecting and combining appropriate governance mechanisms at each maturity stage.

Originality/value

The proposed framework offers a strategic and novel yet practical tool, enabling organizations to advance their digital governance capabilities in sync with their transformation roadmap. The study consolidates dispersed findings and expands the range of viable governance mechanisms contingent on digital progression.
Effect of perceived group inclusion on innovative behavior and its subsequent impact on team performance: moderating effects of team characteristics
Authors: Arthachinda Panisa , Charoensukmongkol Peerayuth
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of perceived group inclusion on the innovative work behavior of consulting team members, as well as to analyze its subsequent impact on team performance. In addition, the authors investigate whether the effect of perceived group inclusion on innovative work behavior could be moderated by two aspects of team characteristics: team size and the gender composition of its members.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors collected questionnaire data from 229 team members from 24 consulting firms located in Bangkok, Thailand. Team performance was assessed by team leaders to prevent common method bias. Partial least squares-structural equation modeling was used for data analysis.

Findings

The results support the positive association between perceived group inclusion and innovative work behavior among consulting team members. Innovative work behavior also mediates the positive association between perceived group inclusion and team performance. Moreover, the authors found that the degree to which perceived group inclusion affects innovative work behavior is stronger in larger teams than smaller teams. However, the degree to which perceived group inclusion affects innovative work behavior tends to be weaker in teams that have a higher proportion of female members than in teams that have fewer female members.

Practical implications

Because employees are the most valuable asset contributing to the innovative performance of consulting firms, it is crucial to understand how members within a team should be properly managed so that the firms can maximize the benefits from their human capital. Essentially, management and practitioners in the consulting business can use the insight from this research regarding the essential roles of group inclusion and team composition to create a favorable and effective team environment that enhances collaboration and helps their firms to gain the full benefits of team synergy. In particular, group inclusion is the issue that management should emphasize. Moreover, the team should be large enough and have a decent level of gender diversity to strengthen the benefit of group inclusion.

Originality/value

The research extends the knowledge boundary in inclusion research, which still lacks evidence about the moderating role of team characteristics that might strengthen/weaken the effect of perceived group inclusion on innovative behaviors.
Dietary patterns and metabolic syndrome in patients with premature heart disease: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Rezayat Shiva , Mohammadifard Noushin , Zarepur Ehsan , Feizi Awat , Sarrafzadegan Nizal , Kafeshani Marzieh
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Due to the increase in the prevalence of other risk factors of heart diseases, the age of heart disease has decreased and it has led to premature heart disease. One of the main risk factors of this disease is metabolic syndrome (MetS). One of the key ways to control MetS is dietary modification. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between dietary patterns and MetS in patients with premature heart disease.

Design/methodology/approach

This study was conducted on 409 people with premature heart disease. The diagnosis of MetS was made based on the ATP III criteria. Dietary intake for the past year was collected using the validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. Dietary patterns were determined by factor analysis with principal components approach.

Findings

Three dietary patterns were identified, including the healthy, western and traditional patterns. The findings showed that people who followed the traditional pattern more than those who followed less had a lower risk of MetS. (OR:0.23; 95% CI: 0.11–0.52). But, no relation was observed between healthy (OR:1.45; 95% CI:0.64–3.25) and western (OR:1.04; 95% CI:0.51–2.13) patterns with MetS.

Originality/value

The findings of this study showed that following a traditional dietary pattern based on high consumption of whole grains, red meat, viscera, fish, eggs, high-fat dairy products, soft drinks, mayonnaise and solid oil was associated with a lower risk of MetS.
Strategy and challenges of value-based intermediation implementation: the case of BIMB
Authors: Shafruddin Aisyah Syahidah , Shahimi Shahida
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The present study aims to evaluate the VBI strategies that have been implemented and to analyze the implementation challenges that BIMB has encountered.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study method was used to generate an in-depth and multi-faceted understanding of VBI strategy implementation in Bank Islam Malaysia Berhad (BIMB). A semi-structured in-depth interview was conducted with BIMB which is among of the earliest members of the VBI Community of Practitioners (CoPs). The data were transcribed and analyzed based on the content and thematic analyses.

Findings

This paper provides insights into how Islamic bank, i.e. BIMB, implement initiatives and strategies for adopting VBI based on the four underpinning principles. VBI is seen as a continuous strategy implementation of what has been practiced in BIMB, for instance, the Sadaqah House initiative introduced in 2018.

Research limitations/implications

The primary limitation of the study is that it only focused on BIMB and does not represent the larger members of VBI CoPs among Islamic banks in Malaysia. A larger sample would have given more trustworthy results and could give better insights on the VBI implementation.

Practical implications

A good strategy implementation can be realized by generating a positive and sustainable economic, societal and environmental impact consistent with sustainable shareholder returns and long-term interests. The regulator should consider the policy implications of this study by strengthening the VBI and encouraging more Islamic and conventional banks to adopt it based on the findings.

Originality/value

The originality of this study is that it focuses on strategy implementation and the challenges facing Islamic bank toward VBI. It provides information on the implementation strategy of VBI in Islamic banks in Malaysia and facilitates other Islamic banking institutions, specifically future members of CoPs in creating a strong ethical foundation.
How a project design becomes a macro-actor: laboratory simulations in trials of strength between competing bridge designs, project budgets and sustainability
Authors: Skærbæk Peter , Themsen Tim Neerup , Tryggestad Kjell
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This paper shows how Bruno Latour’s novel work and methodological approach can enrich management and organization studies, accounting and science and technology studies on what it takes to redesign sustainable societal infrastructures. Latour’s notions of trials of strength, macro-actor and design as redesign are used in a case study to describe and analyse how the laboratory becomes decisive in negotiating the bridge design and project budget to the benefit of a more sustainable transport infrastructure.

Design/methodology/approach

Latour’s notion of the detective-author is used to research and write a longitudinal qualitative case study that reconstructs the project processes and chain of related events by following the actors/actants.

Findings

The case analysis shows how a project design becomes an emerging powerful macro-actor through the mobilization of laboratory simulations and calculations. The role of the project budget changes; from a strong supporting role as input to a decision option in favour of a cheaper stayed bridge to a weak role as an output from a process of redesign supporting a much larger, costlier and more sustainable suspension bridge.

Originality/value

We use Latour’s methodological approach to engage primarily in detailed process descriptions to go beyond the often-pointless call for further theory development and to rather account for what is at work in specific situations. Latour’s notions of redesign as an outcome from trials of strength, we consider a useful approach to further our understanding since it also takes account of the distributed knowledge production that is integral to the actors’ cognitions and recognitions. Relatedly, the specific Latourian notion of redesign opens up new avenues for researching the more or less powerful role accounting devices such as a project budget can play in valuing, supporting and/or undermining the design of sustainable societal infrastructures.
Focus on processes contextualised: how QM process tools and practices can support sustainable development
Authors: Rosvall Max , Gremyr Ida
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Quality management (QM) can support organisations in contributing to sustainable development. As a result of an expanding focus from customers towards stakeholders within QM, the perspectives to consider multiply. Understanding how practices and tools for process management are specifically affected by this increase in perspectives is key to creating the right conditions for improvement initiatives that support sustainable development.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper constructs a typology wherein the use of process management practices and tools is described in nine distinguished system contexts. Inductive discrimination is used to differentiate the system contexts and different use cases for process practices and tools.

Findings

Using the system of systems grid (SOSG), mainstream business process management (BPM) practices are positioned in a simple unitary context, whilst sustainability challenges also involve more complex contexts. Addressing these challenges requires integrating new tools and methods from paradigms outside of traditional functionalist business process management practices.

Research limitations/implications

This paper highlights the necessity to consider system contexts when developing feasible practices and tools for effective process management.

Practical implications

Practical implications are that quality practitioners aiming to exploit the potential in process management to support sustainability get support for planning and conducting process improvement initiatives aiming to consider several stakeholder perspectives.

Originality/value

This paper presents a new typology for understanding the context of QM process initiatives and BPM in light of a contemporary sustainability focus.
Gifts to incentivise donations from young consumers: an ethical tension
Authors: Vale Hayley , Schuster Lisa , Greer Dominique A.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To increase charitable donations, not-for-profit organisations sometimes include a pre-giving incentive such as a monetary gift alongside a request to donate. Little is known about how monetary pre-giving incentives impact subsequent donation intentions, particularly for young consumers who are an important market for the not-for-profit sector. Using the principles of reciprocity, this paper aims to examine whether the value of monetary pre-giving incentives induces obligation (i.e. a negative psychological state) and/or gratitude (i.e. a positive psychological state) and whether this subsequently impact young consumers’ initial donation amount and future donation intention.

Design/methodology/approach

This research uses a one-factor, three-level between-subjects experimental design (n = 274) to test the effect of different values of pre-giving incentives on gratitude, obligation, initial donation amount and future donation intentions of young consumers.

Findings

Higher value pre-giving incentives increase young consumers’ experience of obligation and subsequent donation intention as well as future donation intention. Unexpectedly, gratitude towards the organisation was not influenced by the value of the pre-giving incentive but did increase obligation.

Originality/value

This research highlights an ethical tension about the use of pre-giving incentives to solicit donations from young consumers: while this strategy is effective, it activates an obligation that can negatively impact young consumers’ wellbeing. As such, it also contributes to extending the limited empirical examination of the ethics of fundraising. Theoretically, this research extends understanding of the distinct but simultaneous mechanisms of gratitude and obligation, which has not received sufficient research attention, generated by the norm of reciprocity within the not-for-profit context.
The research status of augmentative and alternative communication for children with special needs in mainland China: A bibliometric analysis
Authors: Tang Shiyuan , Zeng Shulan , Li Shengping , Potměšil Miloň
Published: May 2024

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) refers to methods and tools that facilitate communication for individuals with limited functional speech. This study aims to present and analyse the research status of AAC interventions for children with special needs in mainland China using a bibliometric analysis approach. The researcher conducted a literature search in the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) database to identify relevant studies. Based on the literature search, 80 articles met the inclusion criteria. The research literature spans from 2007 to 2022, with a notable increase in publications after 2015. The majority of studies focus on children with autism, while other disabilities, such as intellectual disabilities and cerebral palsy, receive less attention. AAC interventions primarily utilize low‐technology communication aids, with limited use of high‐technology tools. Research on AAC interventions for children with special needs in mainland China has grown recently. However, it still falls short of meeting the potential demand to promote the application and development of AAC. More diverse research is needed, including various disabilities and higher‐technology AAC tools. The effectiveness of AAC in impacting users and their communication partners will increase their quality of life and social interactions.
Private practice dietetics: A scoping review of the literature
Authors: Donnelly Jennifer , Lane Rebecca , Walsh Louisa , Hughes Roger
Published: May 2024

Aim

Private practice is one of the most rapidly growing, but under‐researched employment sectors for graduate dietitians in Australia, limiting evidence‐based workforce development. This scoping review examines existing international literature to gain an understanding of the current private practice workforce size, distribution, demography and workforce development considerations, including competencies, supply and demand, remuneration and professional development activities.

Methods

The databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, EMCARE, PsycInfo (Ovid) and grey literature were systematically searched in August 2023 using key search terms to identify studies for inclusion. Articles were included if they related to private practice dietetics and described an aspect of workforce. Original research, government and organisational reports, statements of practice and websites providing governmental or organisational statistics were included. A directed content analysis and qualitative constant comparison technique were used to deductively map intelligence sources against a workforce development framework. A gap analysis was also conducted to provide a focus for future workforce development research.

Results

A total of 72 peer‐reviewed and grey literature sources were included, with 65% of the studies being Australian‐based publications. Private practice dietetics research interest has increased in the last decade. Despite a breadth of published sources, this review found little published data on workforce size, distribution, demography, supply, demand, continued professional development and remuneration, indicating a significant gap in the evidence base. Existing literature focuses on workforce challenges and barriers, the work of private practice dietitians, with limited exploration of competency requirements for graduate private practitioners.

Conclusions

The literature on the private practice dietetics workforce is lacking worldwide, which constrains evidenced‐based workforce development initiatives. Workforce development research across all workforce aspects is warranted to address current evidence gaps.
Grading lumbar foraminal stenosis – Interrater agreement of radiologists and radiology trainees before and after education of a standardised grading scale
Authors: Bender James , Kojeku Tobi , Preece Eliza
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Lumbar foraminal stenosis is a key contributor to low back pain. Imaging, particularly MRI, is commonly used in the assessment of foraminal stenosis, contributing to treatment planning. The adoption of a standardised grading system to try and improve inter‐rater agreement is thought to be of importance. Our study aims to assess the variability of grading lumbar foraminal stenosis amongst reporting doctors, determine whether education about a validated grading scale increases agreement, and determine if these changes persist over time.

Methods

A single‐site study involving MRI reporting registrars/radiologists was performed. Participants were shown select MRI images and asked to grade the degree of stenosis in each on a 4‐point scale. Subsequently, they were educated about Lee et al's grading system and asked to re‐grade the cases 1 and 6 weeks later. The level of agreement was calculated using Gwet's AC1 coefficient and Krippendorff's Alpha.

Results

The baseline level of agreement was substantial (AC1 = 0.71). This decreased to a moderate level of agreement post‐intervention (AC1 = 0.575 at 1‐week, P‐value 0.033 and AC1 = 0.598 at 6 weeks, P‐value 0.012). A grading of severe stenosis was 21% more likely 6 weeks post‐education.

Conclusion

The baseline agreement at our institution was substantial, thought to be due to the single‐centre nature of the study. Moderate agreement was achieved after education regarding the Lee et al.'s scale, in‐line with other studies, with changes maintained at 6 weeks, showing retention of the scale parameters. Grading of severe stenosis was more common post intervention.
The individual motivation of investors' gambling mentality: Empirical evidence from gambling sentiment and lottery‐type stocks
Authors: Long Zewei , Wang Wei , Li Haohua , Huang Xinghao
Published: May 2024

We construct a measure of public gambling sentiment using the Baidu index and empirically examine the influence of temporal fluctuations in gambling sentiment on the performance of lottery‐type stocks. The empirical findings reveal that heightened gambling sentiment correlates with increased selling volume, short‐term order imbalances and liquidity in the lottery‐type stock market, while diminishing abnormal returns, including the initial returns of IPOs. We attribute this to investors' gambling mentality stemming from the accumulation of wealth rather than the pursuit of excitement, as they view lotteries and lottery‐related stocks as interchangeable investment options.
Global review of anticoagulant rodenticide exposure in wild mammalian carnivores
Authors: Keating M. P. , Saldo E. A. , Frair J. L. , Cunningham S. A. , Mateo R. , Jachowski D. S.
Published: May 2024

Anticoagulant rodenticides (ARs) are an effective tool used to suppress rodent populations in urban and agricultural settings to reduce human disease risk and economic loss, but widespread use has resulted in adverse effects on predators globally. Attention has largely been focused on impacts of ARs on raptors, although there is increasing evidence that mammalian carnivores are also impacted. We conducted a literature review to assess the extent to which ARs have been documented in wild mammalian carnivores globally and identify potential overlap with imperiled carnivores. We found a small but growing body of literature documenting exposure to ARs in 8 Carnivora families, with Mustelidae (64% of studies), Canidae (44%) and Felidae (23%) most represented. At least 11 different AR compounds were documented in carnivores, and authors claimed that exposure caused mortality of at least one individual in 33.9% of species studied. ARs were listed as a threat for 2% of Red List carnivores, although we found that 19% of Red List carnivores had ranges that overlap countries that have documented AR exposure in carnivores. Collectively, our review highlights the need to prioritize conservation attention on the potential role of ARs on global carnivore declines. We suggest (1) expanding AR monitoring and research outside of the northern hemisphere, (2) supporting long‐term AR monitoring to understand the spatial and temporal variation of AR use and exposure risk, (3) expanding research across trophic levels and across the urban–wildland gradient and 4) research to further our understanding of the point at which morbidity and mortality occur.
Sociodemographic profile and clinical presentation of young children unintentionally exposed to marijuana: A single site retrospective cohort
Authors: Elliott Jonathan , Fonseca Laura D. , Dereci Leyla , Ochoa Patricio , Taylor Morgan , Kumar Gogi
Published: May 2024

Background and Objectives

Legalization of medical marijuana has increased unintentional exposure to marijuana in young children.

We aim to explore the sociodemographic disadvantage profile, prevalence, and clinical presentation of children diagnosed with unintentional exposure to marijuana.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective chart abstraction of 121 children (aged 0–6) seen at the Emergency Department (ED) at a single tertiary hospital center in Dayton, Ohio between January 01, 2010 and January 09, 2022.

Results

Majority were female (62.8%), white (50.4%), and with Medicaid as their primary insurance (84.3%). The median age at exposure was 1.8 years. There was a 14‐fold increase in unintentional marijuana cases pre‐2017 (7 cases) versus post‐2017 (114 cases), the year of legalization of medical marijuana in the state of Ohio. Majority of the patients were using public assistance (66.4%). 26.7% of the cases had a prior social work consultation and 38.1% had a prior children services consultation. 51.3% of the children had a social disadvantage index score of 3 or greater (range 0–5) with higher scores indicating greater disadvantage.

Discussion and Conclusions

The number of patients presenting to the ED at the hospital has increased 14‐fold since the legalization of medical marijuana in Ohio. Half of the children displayed a higher sociodemographic disadvantage index score.

Scientific Significance

Our study is the first study investigating the sociodemographic profile of children exposed to marijuana. The findings of this study may be utilized to inform policy for safely dispensing recreational and medicinal marijuana products and focus the efforts on families with sociodemographic disadvantage.
A calibrated data‐driven approach for small area estimation using big data
Authors: Tam Siu‐Ming , Sharmeen Shaila
Published: May 2024

Where the response variable in a big dataset is consistent with the variable of interest for small area estimation, the big data by itself can provide the estimates for small areas. These estimates are often subject to the coverage and measurement error bias inherited from the big data. However, if a probability survey of the same variable of interest is available, the survey data can be used as a training dataset to develop an algorithm to impute for the data missed by the big data and adjust for measurement errors. In this paper, we outline a methodology for such imputations based on an k‐nearest neighbours (kNN) algorithm calibrated to an asymptotically design‐unbiased estimate of the national total, and illustrate the use of a training dataset to estimate the imputation bias and the “fixed‐k asymptotic” bootstrap to estimate the variance of the small area hybrid estimator. We illustrate the methodology of this paper using a public‐use dataset and use it to compare the accuracy and precision of our hybrid estimator with the Fay–Harriot (FH) estimator. Finally, we also examine numerically the accuracy and precision of the FH estimator when the auxiliary variables used in the linking models are subject to undercoverage errors.
Antibiotic prescriptions to children with periodic fever, aphthous stomatitis, pharyngitis and cervical adenitis
Authors: Rydenman Karin , Berg Stefan , Karlsson‐Bengtsson Anna , Fasth Anders , Wekell Per
Published: May 2024

Aim

To investigate the rate of dispensed antibiotic prescriptions to children and adolescents with PFAPA and compare this with the rate for children in the general population. Furthermore, to compare dispensed antibiotic prescription rates before and after a diagnosis of PFAPA was established.

Methods

Patients aged 0–17 years and diagnosed with PFAPA between 1 January 2006 to 31 October 2017 were included retrospectively. Data on dispensed drug prescriptions were obtained from the Swedish National Prescribed Drug Register.

Results

The PFAPA cohort received more antibiotic prescriptions than the general population in all but one of the age groups and time periods that were analysed. The largest difference was seen in 2014–2017 in the youngest age group (0–4 years) when children with PFAPA received 1218 antibiotic prescriptions per 1000 person years compared to 345 in the general population (IRR 3.5; 95% CI 2.8–4.4).

The yearly number of antibiotic prescriptions to PFAPA patients was reduced from 2.1 before diagnosis to 0.8 after diagnosis, a reduction of 62%.

Conclusion

This study shows higher rates of dispensed antibiotic prescriptions for children with PFAPA than in the general population. The reduction of prescriptions after an established PFAPA diagnosis indicates that antibiotics were previously incorrectly prescribed for PFAPA episodes.
Intranasal vitamin B12 administration in elderly patients: A randomized controlled comparison of two dosage regimens
Authors: Tillemans Monique P. H. , Giezen Thijs J. , Egberts Toine C. G. , Hooijberg Jan H. , Kalisvaart Kees J.
Published: May 2024

Aim

Vitamin B12 deficiency is common in the elderly population. Standard treatment via intramuscular injections, however, has several disadvantages. Safer and more convenient dosage forms such as intranasal are therefore being explored. This study compares the effects of two intranasal vitamin B12 dosage regimens in elderly vitamin B12‐deficient patients.

Methods

Sixty patients ≥65 years were randomly assigned to either a loading dose (daily administration for 14 days followed by weekly administration) or a no loading dose (administration every 3 days) regimen for 90 days. Each dose contained 1000 μg cobalamin. Total vitamin B12, holotranscoblamin (holoTC), methylmalonic acid (MMA) and total homocysteine (tHcy) levels in serum were measured on days 0, 7, 14, 30, 60 and 90.

Results

Both dosage regimens resulted in a rapid increase of vitamin B12 and holoTC concentrations and normalization of initial high, MMA and tHcy concentrations. The loading dose regimen resulted in the fastest and greatest increase to a median vitamin B12 of 1090 pmol/L (reference 350‐650 pmol/L) concentration after 14 days. Following weekly administration, B12 rapidly decreased to a median concentration of 530 pmol/L after 90 days. The no loading dose regimen resulted in a steady increase to a median vitamin B12 of 717 pmol/L after 90 days.

Conclusions

Intranasal vitamin B12 administration is an effective and suitable way to replenish and sustain vitamin B12 levels in elderly patients.
The mitigating effect of para‐hydroxycinnamic acid in bleomycin‐induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice through targeting oxidative, inflammatory and fibrotic pathways
Authors: Hussein Zeena A. , Abu‐Raghif Ahmed R. , Fawzi Hayder Adnan
Published: May 2024

This study investigated the therapeutic benefits of para‐hydroxycinnamic acid in mice with bleomycin‐induced lung fibrosis. Forty male BALB/c mice were randomly assigned to four groups: normal, which received 0.9% normal saline; induced, which received a single dose of bleomycin (5 mg/kg) by oropharyngeal challenge; pirfenidone‐treated; and para‐hydroxycinnamic acid‐treated, which challenged with bleomycin and received a daily oral dose of 300 and 50 mg/kg, respectively, from day 7 to day 21. Tissue pro‐fibrotic and inflammatory cytokines, oxidative indicators, pulmonary histopathology, immunohistochemistry of fibrotic proteins and the assessment of gene expression by RT‐qPCR were evaluated on day 22 after euthanizing animals. Pirfenidone and para‐hydroxycinnamic acid managed to alleviate the fibrotic endpoints by statistically improving the weight index, histopathological score and reduced expression of fibrotic‐related proteins in immune‐stained lung sections, as well as fibrotic markers measured in serum samples. They also managed to alleviate tissue levels of oxidative stress and inflammatory and pro‐fibrotic mediators. para‐Hydroxycinnamic acid enhanced the expression of crucial genes associated with oxidative stress, inflammation and fibrosis in vivo. para‐Hydroxycinnamic acid has demonstrated similar effectiveness to pirfenidone, suggesting it could be a promising treatment for fibrotic lung conditions by inhibiting the TGF‐β1/Smad3 pathway or through its anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Anti‐chitinase‐3‐like 1 antibody attenuated atopic dermatitis‐like skin inflammation through inhibition of STAT3‐dependent CXCL8 expression
Authors: Yu Ji Eun , Jeon Seong Hee , Kim Min Ji , Kim Dae Hwan , Koo Ja Keun , Kim Tae Hun , Kim Bongcheol , Yoon Ji Yong , Lim Young‐soo , Park So Ra , Yeo In Jun , Yun Jaesuk , Son Dong Ju , Han Sang‐Bae , Lee Yong Sun , Hong Jin Tae
Published: May 2024

Background and Purpose

Chitinase‐3‐like 1 (CHI3L1) causes skin inflammation in the progression of atopic dermatitis. We investigated if anti‐CHI3L1 antibody could prevent the development of atopic dermatitis and its mechanisms of action.

Experimental Approach

The effect of CHI3L1 antibody on phthalic anhydride‐induced atopic dermatitis animal model and in vitro reconstructed human skin (RHS) model were investigated. Expression and release of atopic dermatitis‐related cytokines were determined using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and RT‐qPCR, STAT3 and CXCL8 signalling were measured by western blotting.

Key Results

Anti‐CHI3L1 antibody suppressed phthalic anhydride‐induced epidermal thickening, clinical score, IgE level and infiltration of inflammatory cells, and reduced phthalic anhydride‐induced inflammatory cytokines concentration. In addition, CHI3L1 antibody treatment inhibited the expression of STAT3 activity in phthalic anhydride‐treated skin. It was also confirmed that CHI3L1 antibody treatment alleviated atopic dermatitis‐related inflammation in the RHS model. The inhibitory effects of CHI3L1 antibody was similar or more effective compared with that of the IL‐4 antibody. We further found that CHI3L1 is associated with CXCL8 by protein‐association network analysis. siRNA of CHI3L1 blocked the mRNA levels of CHI3L1, IL‐1β, IL‐4, CXCL8, TSLP, and the expression of CHI3L1 and p‐STAT, and the level of CXCL8, whereas recombinant level of CXCL8 was elevated. Moreover, siRNA of STAT3 reduced the mRNA level of these cytokines. CHI3L1 and p‐STAT3 expression correlated with the reduced CXCL8 level in the RHS in vitro model.

Conclusion and Implications

Our data demonstrated that CHI3L1 antibody could be a promising effective therapeutic drug for atopic dermatitis.
Topical application of a P2X2/P2X3 purine receptor inhibitor suppresses the bitter taste of medicines and other taste qualities
Authors: Flammer Linda J. , Ellis Hillary , Rivers Natasha , Caronia Lauren , Ghidewon Misgana Y. , Christensen Carol M. , Jiang Peihua , Breslin Paul A. S. , Tordoff Michael G.
Published: May 2024

Background and Purpose

Many medications taste intensely bitter. The innate aversion to bitterness affects medical compliance, especially in children. There is a clear need to develop bitter blockers to suppress the bitterness of vital medications. Bitter taste is mediated by TAS2R receptors. Because different pharmaceutical compounds activate distinct sets of TAS2Rs, targeting specific receptors may only suppress bitterness for certain, but not all, bitter‐tasting compounds. Alternative strategies are needed to identify universal bitter blockers that will improve the acceptance of every medication. Taste cells in the mouth transmit signals to afferent gustatory nerve fibres through the release of ATP, which activates the gustatory nerve‐expressed purine receptors P2X2/P2X3. We hypothesized that blocking gustatory nerve transmission with P2X2/P2X3 inhibitors (e.g. 5‐(5‐iodo‐4‐methoxy‐2‐propan‐2‐ylphenoxy)pyrimidine‐2,4‐diamine [AF‐353]) would reduce bitterness for all medications and bitter compounds.

Experimental Approach

Human sensory taste testing and mouse behavioural analyses were performed to determine if oral application of AF‐353 blocks perception of bitter taste and other taste qualities but not non‐gustatory oral sensations (e.g. tingle).

Key Results

Rinsing the mouth with AF‐353 in humans or oral swabbing it in mice suppressed the bitter taste and avoidance behaviours of all compounds tested. We further showed that AF‐353 suppressed other taste qualities (i.e. salt, sweet, sour and savoury) but had no effects on other oral or nasal sensations (e.g, astringency and oral tingle).

Conclusion and Implications

This is the first time a universal, reversible taste blocker in humans has been reported. Topical application of P2X2/P2X3 inhibitor to suppress bitterness may improve medical compliance.