bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Well-being of migrant workers in Taiwan during COVID-19 pandemic: the role of perceived organisational support, employee resilience and ethical leadership
Authors: Pham Loan Ngoc Tuong , Nguyen Duong Tuan , Vo An Hoang Kim , Nguyen Lam Dang
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how perceived organisational support (POS) enhances the well-being of migrant workers in Taiwan by strengthening their resilience. In addition, the moderating role of ethical leadership in this association was investigated based on the conservation of resources (COR) theory.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were gathered from migrant workers from Southeast Asian countries, including Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines with structured questionnaires during the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 420 samples were analysed by testing the mediation and moderation model.

Findings

The results showed a significant effect of POS on migrant workers' well-being in Taiwan through the mediating role of resilience. Moreover, ethical leadership moderated the effect of POS on employee resilience and work well-being.

Research limitations/implications

The sample was restricted to Southeast Asian migrant workers who were employed in industrial sectors in Taiwan. The study considered several demographic variables, including language proficiency, nationality and marital status, which could result in cultural and language biases. A cross-sectional design and self-reported data were utilised, which could potentially create common method variance biases and inflated correlations across the research variables.

Practical implications

The present study may be helpful to organisational leaders in the process of designing approaches for promoting a people-oriented and harmonious workplace. Employee well-being can be strengthened through employee resilience (individual factors), as well as POS and ethical leadership (organisational factors).

Originality/value

This study supports the use of COR theory in confirming POS as a resource that strengthens employees' resilience capabilities and work well-being. Employee resilience serves as a mediator of the relationship between POS and employee well-being. Ethical leadership serves as a moderator in strengthening the relationships between POS and employee resilience, as well as between POS and work well-being of migrant workers.
A wavelet analysis of investing in cryptocurrencies in the Indian stock market
Authors: Jana Susovon , Sahu Tarak Nath
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study is designed to examine the dynamic interrelationships between four cryptocurrencies (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Dogecoin and Cardano) and the Indian equity market. Additionally, the study seeks to investigate the potential safe haven, hedge and diversification uses of these digital currencies within the Indian equity market.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs the wavelet approach to examine the time-varying volatility of the studied assets and the lead-lag relationship between stocks and cryptocurrencies. The authors execute the entire analysis using daily data from 1st October 2017 to 30th September 2023.

Findings

The result of the study shows that financial distress due to the pandemic and the Russian invasion of Ukraine have a negative effect on the Indian equities and cryptocurrency markets, escalating their price volatility. Also, the connectedness between the returns of stock and digital currency exhibits a strong positive relationship during periods of financial distress. Additionally, cryptocurrencies serve as a tool of diversification or hedging in the Indian equities markets during normal financial circumstances, but they do not serve as a diversifier or safe haven during periods of financial turmoil.

Originality/value

This study contributes to understanding the relationship between the Indian equity market and four cryptocurrencies using wavelet techniques in the time and frequency domains, considering both normal and crisis times. This can offer valuable insights into the potential of cryptocurrencies inside the Indian equities markets, mainly with respect to varying financial conditions and investment horizons.
Analyzing the market performance of Romanian firms: do the COVID-19 crisis and classification type matter?
Authors: Nuta Alina Cristina , Habib Ahmed Mohamed , Neslihanoglu Serdar , Dalwai Tamanna , Rangu Calin Mihai
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Stock market performance is paramount to every country, as it signifies economic growth, business performance, wealth maximization, savings deployment and consumer confidence. This study investigates the disparities in the market performance of listed firms in Romania. This study also examines whether the COVID-19 crisis affected market performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected from 69 firms listed on the Bucharest Stock Exchange (BSE) from 2018 to 2022, belonging to 11 sectors. This study used several methods to achieve its objectives. Difference tests were considered to analyze the performance of Romanian companies before and during the COVID-19 crisis, as well as across sectors. Regression analysis was also conducted to estimate the effect of the COVID-19 crisis and classification type on Romanian companies' performance. Additional analyses were performed to verify the findings of the present study.

Findings

The study’s findings indicate a clear difference in market performance between the pre-crisis and crisis periods. The COVID-19 pandemic had an adverse and significant impact on market performance. However, after the market contraction in the early stage of the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak, the stock market outperformed the pre-pandemic capitalization levels and the regional and global indices evolution. Furthermore, there was a difference in market performance across sectors. In particular, the communication services sector has specifically demonstrated accelerated growth.

Originality/value

This research examines the variation in the market performance of companies before and during the COVID-19 pandemic and across different sectors. It also provides evidence of the potential impact of COVID-19 on firms' market performance. This research contributes to a better understanding of how sectors perform during times of crisis.
Exploring gender inequality and sociocultural factors in Fiji: unveiling the “pink unicorns”
Authors: Saliya C.A.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the roles that sociocultural systems such as traditions, religious practices, and rituals play in upholding gender imbalance in Fiji.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative study relies on results from semi-structured interviews with auditors, educationalists, academics, partners from leading accounting/audit firms, company directors and high-ranked government officers. Thematic analysis was conducted both manually and using MAXQDA software, and the themes that emerged from both analyses are complementary. A few more complementary analyses were also conducted such as Word Cloud.

Findings

The results support the claim that the religious traditions and rituals are strongly linked to gender-inequitable beliefs and suggest sociocultural factors impose on women experiencing self-effacing emotions and passive acceptance of lower status, contributing to the persistence of gender inequality. It also emphasizes the need to challenge certain sociocultural practices to promote greater gender equality, which is the theme emerged from thematic analysis. Additionally, this paper proposes four distinct types of attitudes in this regard as self-effacing feminist, self-effacing traditional, self-effacing modesty and talented driven.

Research limitations/implications

Respondents' openness authenticity may be limited by factors like selection bias, small sample size and other potential constraints in this study.

Practical implications

The findings might influence stakeholders to advocate for policy changes to promote women's representation in leadership positions. The results give voice to various segments of society who are advocating greater gender diversity on board representation in Fiji. The themes immerged and theories developed would make a substantial contribution to the existing literature.

Social implications

The findings highlight the importance of addressing gender inequality in leadership positions to promote inclusive and sustainable growth.

Originality/value

This study sheds light on the less-explored domain of internal barriers to gender equality within Fiji. It adds a novel dimension to the understanding of how cultural norms intersect with individual perceptions to shape gender inequality.
Exploring the criteria for a green and smart hotel: insights from hotel managers' perspectives
Authors: Akel Gökhan , Noyan Elçin
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to explore the adaptations and perspectives of hotel managers regarding green and smart hotel technologies within the context of sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive literature review guided the formulation of this study, followed by face-to-face, semi-structured interviews with hotel managers. A total of 17 prepared questions were finalized after examination by two expert academicians. The responses were analyzed using qualitative research methodology and the results were weighted using the step-wise weight assessment ratio analysis (SWARA) method.

Findings

Interviews with sustainability and operational managers yielded insights into environmentally friendly practices and strategies such as reducing energy and water consumption, waste and chemical reduction, supporting local entrepreneurs and adopting smart technologies. These factors are crucial in eco-friendly hotels. According to the SWARA analysis, 'reducing energy consumption' is the most effective criterion.

Research limitations/implications

This study offers insights into green and smart hotel management by focusing on the perspectives of hotel managers with a small sample. In future studies, research with larger samples on customer perspectives and the effect of hotel selection is recommended.

Practical implications

This study offers insights to hotel managers on energy conservation and customer satisfaction enhancement through green and technological applications. These technological applications can improve hotel service quality and provide personalized experiences, fostering customer loyalty.

Originality/value

This pioneering study focuses on the intersection of green and smart practices in hospitality. By intertwining the often separately discussed concepts of “green” and “smart,” this study presents a novel approach to the sustainability practices in the hospitality industry, holding a key position, especially in Turkey. Implementing these concepts can yield environmental and economic benefits, offering invaluable insights to hotel managers and policymakers into integrating smart technologies with sustainability.
Are you hungry for play? Investigating the role of emotional attachment on continuance intention to use food delivery apps
Authors: Mai Xuan Tai , Trinh Thu Thi , Ryan Chris
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Food delivery apps (FDAs) have rapidly developed due to mobile technologies, changes in modern consumption and increased online use during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite this, the platforms are struggling to build a stable customer base and make a profit. This study combined tech-driven motivators in an information system success model (ISSM) and emotional attachment operated by affect transfer theory (ATT) to explain why people might continue to use an FDA.

Design/methodology/approach

An online quantitative cross-sectional survey was carried out via the Prolific platform. Data were collected from 416 FDA users and analyzed to test the hypotheses using the partial least squares based structural equation modeling.

Findings

The study found that system quality, information quality and emotional attachment directly influence the continued use of FDA. Moreover, the results suggest that perceived social interactivity and perceived playfulness are significant antecedents of emotional attachment.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this study enrich the current literature on continuance intention in online food delivery services by integrating the technology- and affective-based factors. The findings also provide various practical implications for app designers and marketers to foster an emotional bond with users, resulting in high retention rate.

Originality/value

The study proposes the integrated framework of ISSM and ATT for enhancing understanding of consumer behaviors in the post-adoption stage for FDA.
Production mode selection for automakers considering product substitution under the dual-credit policy
Authors: Wang Yongjian , Yuan Xigang , Wang Fei
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to compare and analyze the effect of the dual-credit policy and product substitution rate on the automakers’ operational strategies under different production modes (e.g. centralized and independent), and further illustrate which production mode is more conducive to improving new energy vehicle (NEV) development.

Design/methodology/approach

The decision-making models for a centralized production mode where an integrated automaker produces both NEVs and fuel vehicles (FVs) and for independent production mode where an NEV automaker faces competition from a traditional FV automaker were formulated. The equilibrium solutions of each production mode were obtained by extreme value and game theory methods. The conclusions of the theoretical analysis were further verified with numerical analyses using IBM-MATLAB R2019a. Some management insights could be obtained by comparison analysis.

Findings

Under the dual-credit policy, an increase in the NEV credit trading price will always raise production quantity of NEVs, but only in an independent production mode where a higher trading price will also bring higher total profits to NEV automakers. In addition, only when the NEV credit trading price is high enough, a rising product substitution rate will be more favorable to NEV production and restrain FV production. Furthermore, an independent production mode is more favorable for the initial production of NEVs, but as each of the two vehicle types captures a certain amount of market share, a centralized production mode will be more conducive to the full replacement of FVs by NEVs.

Originality/value

The main contributions of this study include the formulation of decision-making models for FVs and NEVs in not only a centralized production mode but also an independent production mode. Moreover, this paper comprehensively analyzes how the dual-credit policy and product substitution relationship affect automakers’ production and pricing decisions. Then, the specific conditions under which each production mode is more conducive to NEV production and sales are summarized. The results proposed in this study provide scientific managerial insights for automakers and policy makers.
A case of anti‐laminin γ1 (p200) pemphigoid developed after dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor administration
Authors: Nakatani Kahori , Noborio Reiko , Nomura Yuki , Ueki Yoko , Kiyohara Takahiro , Hashimoto Takashi
Published: January 2024

A 73‐year‐old man with diabetes mellitus was referred to our department for ultraviolet treatment for erythematous skin lesions with itching. On dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor (DPP‐4i) sitagliptin (Januvia®) for diabetes mellitus, the erythematous skin lesions appeared and spread to the whole body. At the initial visit, erythema multiforme‐like skin lesions with crusts were observed on the trunk and extremities, and the patient was suspected to have drug eruption. Histopathology demonstrated eosinophilic infiltration in the superficial dermis and inflammatory cell infiltration in the epidermis. Sitagliptin was discontinued, and erythematous lesions improved with oral prednisolone. Thereafter the patient was treated with phototherapy and  betamethasone sodium phosphate infusion for residual prurigo. However, blistering skin lesions appeared 5 months later. Histopathological findings were subepidermal blisters with eosinophilic abscess, and bullous pemphigoid was suspected. CLEIAs for autoantibodies to desmoglein 1 (Dsg1), Dsg3 and BP180 were negative. Direct immunofluorescence showed linear depositions of immunoglobulin G (IgG) and C3 at the epidermal basement membrane zone, and indirect immunofluorescence detected IgG anti‐epidermal basement membrane zone antibodies, reacting with the dermal side of 1M NaCl‐split normal human skin. IgG antibodies reacted with 200 kDa laminin γ1 (p200) by immunoblotting using dermal extracts. These results indicated that this patient was diagnosed with anti‐laminin γ1 (p200) pemphigoid developed after DPP‐4i administration. Although reports of DPP‐4i‐related bullous pemphigoid have accumulated, cases of anti‐laminin γ1 (p200) pemphigoid developed after DPP‐4i administration are rarely reported.
Seed flotation in some widespread, oceanic‐dispersed trees and their island‐endemic congeners
Authors: Brodie Jedediah F. , Brodie Joaquin R. , Brodie Niko P.
Published: January 2024

Variation in plant dispersal capabilities strongly influences the assembly of island plant communities. Many tropical plants have seeds capable of long‐distance, often oceanic, dispersal; in some cases, these taxa speciate into island interior endemics with reduced dispersal capabilities, though whether this is a general pattern is debated. Flotation times are highly variable among plants with oceanic dispersal and between such plants and their inland congeners. Here, we experimentally compared salt‐water flotation in three woody plant genera in Palau, Micronesia, comparing broadly distributed and island endemic species within each genus. The widespread Calophyllum inophyllum (with oceanic and vertebrate dispersal), C. soulattri (vertebrate dispersal), and Terminalia catappa had substantially longer flotation than their inland endemic relatives C. pelewense and T. crassipes. This supports the “Loss of dispersal ability” hypothesis for Calophyllum though, for Terminalia, additional phylogenetic information is needed to determine T. crassipes' sister species. Seed flotation in the widespread, oceanic dispersed Pandanus tectorius did not significantly differ from that of the Palau endemics P. palawensis and P. aimiriikensis. Our results highlight that differences among taxa in dispersal modes, speciation modes, and their interactions may influence the assembly of island floras.
Building trust in times of crisis: A panel study of the influence of satisfaction with COVID‐19 communication and management
Authors: Abdelzadeh Ali , Sedelius Thomas
Published: January 2024

This study examines the relationship between citizens' satisfaction with government COVID‐19 communication and management (SWCCM) and institutional trust. By employing a longitudinal approach, using three‐wave panel data from Sweden from 2020 to 2022, the study addresses the current lack of research on the interplay between SWCCM and institutional trust across different stages of a societal crisis like the COVID‐19 pandemic. The results show that SWCCM increased slightly over the pandemic period, while trust in institutions slightly decreased. The study also finds that changes in SWCCM predict changes in trust in institutions, suggesting that increased satisfaction with communication and management is associated with increased trust in institutions. Additionally, we find that higher initial levels of SWCCM contribute to a faster decline in trust over time. However, no evidence supports the idea that initial trust in institutions predicts changes in SWCCM. This suggests a unidirectional relationship where SWCCM is a key driver of institutional trust during a crisis. Overall, the study uncovers intriguing dynamics in the relationship between SWCCM and trust over time, and it emphasizes the significance of effective and consistent communication and management in maintaining and boosting public trust during crisis.
A case of inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor harboring EML4‐ALK fusion with a brain metastasis responding to alectinib
Authors: Sakoda Soichiro , Tanaka Kentaro , Koga Yuichiro , Mikumo Hironori , Tsuchiya‐Kawano Yuko , Harada Eiji , Tamiya Sadafumi , Okamoto Isamu
Published: January 2024

Metastatic inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (IMT) is very rare and detailed reports on diagnosis and treatment are limited. Here, we report a case of metastatic IMT with ALK rearrangement. A 73‐year‐old woman was diagnosed with IMT involving a brain metastasis. Next generation sequencing (NGS) panel testing with Oncomine dx target test revealed that her tumor was positive for EML4‐ALK. Treatment with alectinib was initiated, resulting in remarkable shrinkage of both the primary tumor and the brain metastasis. This report is the first to identify ALK rearrangement in IMT using a commercially available NGS panel testing, followed by treatment with alectinib. This case suggests that NGS panel testing may be useful in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with metastatic IMT.
Assessment of simultaneous alcohol and cannabis use and its related consequences and cognitions in college students: A narrative review
Authors: Shipley Jennifer L. , Braitman Abby L.
Published: January 2024

As rates of students using cannabis continue to rise, simultaneous use of alcohol and cannabis (such that their effects overlap; commonly referred to as simultaneous alcohol and marijuana [SAM] use) is prevalent among college students who use both substances. Although research focusing on SAM use and related cognitions and consequences continues to grow, there are no common established measures, as approaches vary across studies. This narrative review identifies current methods for assessing SAM use and measures of SAM‐related consequences and cognitions (motives and expectancies) among college students, evaluates how they were developed, identifies gaps in the literature, and provides recommendations for future directions of assessment. We conclude that the assessment of SAM use is limited by difficulties in the assessment of cannabis quantity and potency. However, and the lack of a psychometrically validated measure of SAM consequences. However, measures of SAM motives and expectancies have been published with support from psychometric examinations such as exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and measurement invariance. Research is needed that incorporates qualitative approaches in the development of SAM use measures so that unique items specific to SAM use rather than single‐substance use can be identified. Additionally, validation of these measures is needed across different samples that vary demographically, such as by race and gender or sex. Future research should consider the development of a measure of protective behavioral strategies  specific to SAM use to inform interventions that target the reduction of negative consequences of SAM use.
Family control, institutional investors, and financial distress: Evidence from China
Authors: Li Hongxiao , Gao Yunfan , Zhu Yanjian , Dai Lili
Published: January 2024

The effect of family control on corporate governance and risk‐taking behaviours remains disputed worldwide. We examine how family control affects the financial distress of firms listed on the Chinese stock market. Our empirical findings suggest that family firms, particularly those with descendant CEOs, face significantly higher financial distress risk. Higher debt levels and more diversified acquisitions of family firms can partially explain their higher financial risk. Further analysis indicates that institutional investors help reduce the financial distress risk of Chinese family firms. We contend that institutional investors play vital roles in enhancing the corporate governance of family firms in China. Taken together, our study urges attention to the financial distress risk of family firms in a transient economy.
Buff‐tailed bumblebee Bombus terrestris as a potential nest site competitor for the endangered forty‐spotted pardalote Pardalotus quadragintus
Authors: Hingston Andrew B.
Published: January 2024

This note documents the first record of the invasive buff‐tailed bumblebee Bombus terrestris nesting in an above‐ground nest box deployed for birds in Australia. The box in question had been installed as nesting habitat for the endangered forty‐spotted pardalote Pardalotus quadragintus on Bruny Island, Tasmania. The bumblebee nest appeared to be constructed on a partially built pardalote nest inside the box and so may have caused the abandonment of a nesting attempt by pardalotes. However, the remains of this bumblebee nest were not large enough to prevent forty‐spotted pardalotes constructing a nest in the box during the subsequent breeding season. Further research will be needed to ascertain the degree to which bumblebees disrupt breeding of forty‐spotted pardalotes.
Diuretics use in the management of bronchopulmonary dysplasia in preterm infants: A systematic review
Authors: Ó Briain Eoin , Byrne Aisling O. , Dowling Jack , Kiernan Julia , Lynch James Carlo Rio , Alomairi Lulwa , Coyle Lauren , Mulkerrin Lorcan , Mockler David , Fitzgerald Geraldine , Rehman Liqa Ur , Semova Gergana , Isweisi Eman , O'Sullivan Anne , O'Connor Pamela , Mulligan Kevin , Branagan Aoife , Roche Edna , Meehan Judith , Molloy Eleanor
Published: January 2024

Aim

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), a respiratory complication associated with neonatal prematurity, presents opportunities for pharmacological intervention due to its contributing risk factors. Despite diuretics' controversial usage in BPD treatment and varying institutional practices, this review aims to consolidate evidence from clinical trials regarding diuretic use in BPD.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review following PRISMA guidelines, searching EMBASE, Medline, Web of Science and CINAHL databases (PROSPERO 2022: CRD42022328292). Covidence facilitated screening and data extraction, followed by analysis and formatting in Microsoft Excel.

Results

Among 430 screened records, 13 were included for analysis. Three studies assessed spironolactone and chlorothiazide combinations, two studied spironolactone and hydrochlorothiazide, while eight examined furosemide. All studies evaluated drug effects on dynamic pulmonary compliance and pulmonary resistance, serving as comparative measures in our review.

Conclusion

Diuretics' effectiveness in treating bronchopulmonary dysplasia remains uncertain. The limited number of identified randomised controlled trials (RCTs) hampers high‐level evidence‐based conclusions when applying the Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome (PICO) approach. Conducting large prospective studies of good quality could provide more definitive insights, but the rarity of outcomes and eligible patients poses challenges. Further research, primarily focusing on RCTs assessing diuretics' safety and efficacy in this population, is warranted.
Liver stiffness measurement as a noninvasive method for the diagnosis of liver cirrhosis in patients with chronic hepatitis D virus infection
Authors: Sandmann Lisa , Degasperi Elisabetta , Port Kerstin , Aleman Soo , Wallin Jeffrey J. , Manuilov Dmitry , Da Ben L. , Cornberg Markus , Lampertico Pietro , Maasoumy Benjamin , Wedemeyer Heiner , Deterding Katja
Published: January 2024

Background

Noninvasive tests (NITs) have been proposed as an alternative to liver biopsy for diagnosing liver cirrhosis. The evidence of NIT performance in patients with chronic hepatitis D (CHD) is limited.

Aims

To evaluate the diagnostic performance of liver stiffness measurement (LSM) and other NITs in CHD patients.

Methods

We evaluated the diagnostic performance of LSM by transient elastography for the detection of liver cirrhosis in a retrospective, multicentre cohort of 144 CHD patients with paired (±6 months) LSM and liver biopsies.

Results

Cirrhosis was diagnosed histologically in 22 patients (15.3%). Mean LSM was significantly higher in patients with cirrhosis compared to those without fibrosis (23.4 vs 10.2 kPa, p < 0.0001) or with intermediate fibrosis (23.4 vs 13.5 kPa, p < 0.0001). In the detection of liver cirrhosis, LSM was superior to other NITs (AUROCs: 0.89 [LSM], 0.87 [D4FS], 0.74 [APRI], 0.73 [FIB‐4], and 0.69 [AAR]). The optimal cut‐off for identifying patients with liver cirrhosis was ≥15.2 kPa (Se 91%, Sp 84%, PPV 50%, NPV 98%). The ideal cut‐off for diagnosing non‐advanced liver fibrosis (Metavir ≤2) was <10.2 kPa (Se 55%, Sp 86%, PPV 90%, NPV 45%), correctly identifying 90% of patients. Data were validated in an independent cohort of 132 CHD patients.

Conclusions

LSM is a useful tool for identifying patients at risk for liver cirrhosis and is superior to other NITs. The cut‐offs of <10.2 and < 15.2 kPa reliably diagnose non‐advanced liver fibrosis and exclude cirrhosis in the majority of patients. However, LSM cannot completely replace liver biopsy in CHD patients.
Support archetypes in ecosystems for social innovations
Authors: Dentchev Nikolay A. , Gonzalez Abel Alan Diaz , Neumeyer Xaver
Published: January 2024

Social innovations (SIs) offer creative solutions to complex social problems and often require the exchange of necessary resources, knowledge, and expertise among various actors. These actors form an ecosystem that can support the development of successful SIs. In this special topic forum introduction, we first discuss the literature related to the support function of ecosystems. We use the theoretical lens of prosocial behavior to explain the various types of support in an ecosystem. We argue that there are three archetypes of support in ecosystems, namely, altruistic, communitarian, and commercial support. Subsequently, we present the three papers accepted for publication in the special topic forum. One paper refers to the three support archetypes, although indirectly, while the other two refer to one specific archetype of ecosystem support for SIs. This introductory paper concludes with discussion on the opportunities for future research. Without a clear understanding of the different archetypes of support, it would be difficult for both scholars and practitioners to design vibrant ecosystems in assistance to SI.
Reimagining the sustainable consumer: Why social representations of sustainable consumption matter
Authors: Golob Urša , Podnar Klement , Weder Franzisca
Published: January 2024

Globally, consumers are increasingly turning to sustainable consumption practices. This article emphasizes the importance of social and cultural context in the study of sustainable consumption, drawing on social representations. It attempts to explain and empirically demonstrate how sustainable consumption is socially represented. The aim of the study was to investigate the construction of representations of sustainable consumption as knowledge and its appropriation in relation to the purchase and consumption of food. Online focus groups were employed in a cross‐sectional study conducted in Slovenia and Austria. The results of the study not only show how the “global” concept of sustainable consumption is appropriated and reflected in practices in a specific national and cultural context, but also highlight the importance of social representations in terms of how their meanings can influence the emergence of new practices. Furthermore, they show how sustainable consumption can occasionally be seen in actions that precede reflection or exist in a more abstract form unrelated to actions. The results offer several implications for practitioners seeking to promote sustainable consumption.
Dying a lonely death: A conceptual and normative analysis
Authors: Lederman Zohar
Published: January 2024

This paper argues that a lonely death is, by definition, a bad death and that society as a whole, as well as individuals in society are obligated to assure a certain degree of well‐being, flourishing, or care among and for fellow individuals. Individuals can then be said to have a right against dying a lonely death. Such a right has corresponding duties. The paper further specifies what such duties may entail based on what individuals may need on their deathbed, specifically focusing on the need for human touch. Assuming that human touch might indeed be needed by some individuals in order to avoid a lonely death, the paper explores potential implications from a public health perspective, particularly during infectious disease outbreaks such as COVID.
A cluster differences unfolding method for large datasets of preference ratings on an interval scale: Minimizing the mean squared centred residuals
Authors: Macías Rodrigo , Vera J. Fernando , Heiser Willem J.
Published: January 2024

Clustering and spatial representation methods are often used in combination, to analyse preference ratings when a large number of individuals and/or object is involved. When analysed under an unfolding model, row‐conditional linear transformations are usually most appropriate when the goal is to determine clusters of individuals with similar preferences. However, a significant problem with transformations that include both slope and intercept is the occurrence of degenerate solutions. In this paper, we propose a least squares unfolding method that performs clustering of individuals while simultaneously estimating the location of cluster centres and object locations in low‐dimensional space. The method is based on minimising the mean squared centred residuals of the preference ratings with respect to the distances between cluster centres and object locations. At the same time, the distances are row‐conditionally transformed with optimally estimated slope parameters. It is computationally efficient for large datasets, and does not suffer from the appearance of degenerate solutions. The performance of the method is analysed in an extensive Monte Carlo experiment. It is illustrated for a real data set and the results are compared with those obtained using a two‐step clustering and unfolding procedure.
Adolescent/Young Adult Self‐Management and Independence Self‐Report Scale: Preliminary psychometric findings
Authors: Ridosh Monique M. , Smith Zoe , Adams William , Brei Timothy J. , Fremion Ellen , Holmbeck Grayson N. , Roach Audrey J. , Sawin Kathleen J. , Sherburne Eileen
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study examined preliminary psychometrics of the Adolescent/Young Adult Self‐Management and Independence Self‐Report Scale (AMIS II SR).

Methods

Adolescents and adults (N = 159; 13–38 years old) with spina bifida from two clinics and one community sample completed the AMIS II SR. The majority (83%) had myelomeningocele, and about half were female (51.6%). The sample included 44.7% White, 11.3% Black and over one‐third Hispanic/Latino (38.4%) participants. Descriptive analyses and reliability were assessed; a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was conducted.

Results

Item‐to‐total correlations support the AMIS II SR total scale (r = .38–.79) and its two subscales: condition (r = .49–.67) and independent living (r = .49–.85). Internal consistency reliability was high (α = .91–.96) for the AMIS II SR total scale and subscales. A higher order CFA model that included independent living and condition self‐management as first‐order factors and a second‐order overall self‐management factor had excellent fit (RMSEA = 0.06; CFI = 0.97; TLI = 0.96). Descriptive analyses findings were reported.

Conclusions

This study provides psychometric evidence for the use of the AMIS II SR total (overall) scale and subscales (condition and independent living) to assess self‐management and independence.
The causal relationship between autoimmune thyroid disorders and telomere length: A Mendelian randomization and colocalization study
Authors: Liu Xue , Yuan Jie , Liu Shuai , Wang Xinhui , Tang Mulin , Meng Xue , Li Yuchen , Chai Yuwei , Wang Yuyao , Tian Guoyu , Liu Xueying , Zhou Huizhi , Kou Chunjia , Zhang Li , Yuan Zhongshang , Zhang Haiqing
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to evaluate whether there is a causal relationship between autoimmune thyroid disorders (AITDs) and telomere length (TL) in the European population and whether there is reverse causality. In this study, Mendelian randomization (MR) and colocalization analysis were conducted to assess the potential causal relationship between AITDs and TL using summary statistics from large‐scale genome‐wide association studies, followed by analysis of the relationship between TL and thyroid stimulating hormone and free thyroxine (FT4) to help interpret the findings. The inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was used to estimate the causal estimates. The weighted median, MR‒Egger and leave‐one‐out methods were used as sensitivity analyses. The IVW method results showed a significant causal relationship between autoimmune hyperthyroidism and TL (β = −1.93 × 10−2; p = 4.54 × 10−5). There was no causal relationship between autoimmune hypothyroidism and TL (β = −3.99 × 10−3; p = 0.324). The results of the reverse MR analysis showed that genetically TL had a significant causal relationship on autoimmune hyperthyroidism (IVW: odds ratio (OR) = 0.49; p = 2.83 × 10−4) and autoimmune hypothyroidism (IVW: OR = 0.86; p = 7.46 × 10−3). Both horizontal pleiotropy and heterogeneity tests indicated the validity of our bidirectional MR study. Finally, colocalization analysis suggested that there were shared causal variants between autoimmune hyperthyroidism and TL, further highlighting the robustness of the results. In conclusion, autoimmune hyperthyroidism may accelerate telomere attrition, and telomere attrition is a causal factor for AITDs.
Adult stem cells in the eye: Identification, characterisation, and therapeutic application in ocular regeneration – A review
Authors: Xiao Yuting , McGhee Charles N. J. , Zhang Jie
Published: January 2024

Adult stem cells, present in various parts of the human body, are undifferentiated cells that can proliferate and differentiate to replace dying cells within tissues. Stem cells have specifically been identified in the cornea, trabecular meshwork, crystalline lens, iris, ciliary body, retina, choroid, sclera, conjunctiva, eyelid, lacrimal gland, and orbital fat. The identification of ocular stem cells broadens the potential therapeutic strategies for untreatable eye diseases. Currently, stem cell transplantation for corneal and conjunctival diseases remains the most common stem cell‐based therapy in ocular clinical management. Lens epithelial stem cells have been applied in the treatment of paediatric cataracts. Several early‐phase clinical trials for corneal and retinal regeneration using ocular stem cells are also underway. Extensive preclinical studies using ocular stem cells have been conducted, showing encouraging outcomes. Ocular stem cells currently demonstrate great promise in potential treatments of eye diseases. In this review, we focus on the identification, characterisation, and therapeutic application of adult stem cells in the eye.
Association of biofilm formation, antimicrobial resistance, clinical characteristics, and clinical outcomes among Acinetobacter baumannii isolates from patients with ventilator‐associated pneumonia
Authors: Chukamnerd Arnon , Saipetch Niwat , Singkhamanan Kamonnut , Ingviya Natnicha , Assanangkornchai Nawaporn , Surachat Komwit , Chusri Sarunyou
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Biofilm formation is an important virulence factor of Acinetobacter baumannii. Here, we examined the biofilm formation of archived A. baumannii causing ventilator‐associated pneumonia (VAP).

Methods

Eighteen and twenty isolates of A. baumannii causing bacteremic pneumonia and non‐bacteremic pneumonia were included, respectively. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed by broth microdilution method, while biofilm formation was evaluated by microtiter dish biofilm formation assay.

Results

All 38 isolates were still susceptible to colistin and tigecycline, whereas almost all isolates were non‐susceptible (intermediate to resistant) to several antimicrobial agents, especially ceftriaxone and cefotaxime. Approximately, 44% of bacteremic isolates and 50% of non‐bacteremic isolates were classified as carbapenem‐resistant A. baumannii (CRAB). Biofilm formation was detected in 42% of the studied isolates. Bacteremia among the patients infected with biofilm‐producing isolates was significantly higher than in those infected with non‐biofilm‐producing isolates. The antimicrobial susceptibilities of A. baumannii with biofilm formation were lower than those without biofilm formation, but the differences did not have statistical significance. The patients infected with non‐biofilm‐producing isolates had good clinical and non‐clinical outcomes than those infected with biofilm‐producing isolates. The survival rate of patients diagnosed with VAP due to biofilm‐producing A. baumannii was lower than in those patients diagnosed with VAP due to non‐biofilm‐producing isolates.

Conclusion

Biofilm formation of A. baumannii causing VAP was associated with antimicrobial resistance and bacteremia as well as unfavorable clinical outcomes.
Efficacy and safety of adamgammadex for reversing rocuronium‐induced deep neuromuscular blockade: A multicenter, randomized, phase IIb study
Authors: Zhao Yanhua , Chen Sifan , Xie Wenqin , Zhang Xiaoqing , Chen Guozhong , Ji Fuhai , Wang Dongxin , Qi Youmao , Jie Qing , Su Diansan , Yu Weifeng
Published: January 2024

The rapid reversal of deep neuromuscular blockade (NMB) is important but remains challenging. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of adamgammadex versus sugammadex in reversing deep rocuronium‐induced NMB. This multicenter, randomized, phase IIb study included 80 patients aged 18–64 years, American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade 1–2, undergoing elective surgery under general anesthesia with rocuronium. Patients were randomized to the adamgammadex 7, 8, and 9 mg/kg group or the sugammadex 4 mg/kg group. The primary efficacy variable was the time to recovery of train‐of‐four ratio (TOFr) to 0.9. The secondary efficacy variables were the time to recovery of TOFr to 0.7, antagonistic success rate of the recovery of TOFr to 0.9 within 5 min, and incidence rate of recurarization within 30 min after drug administration. The explorative efficacy variable was the time to recovery of the corrected TOFr to 0.9 (actual/baseline TOF ratio). Adamgammadex 7, 8, and 9 mg/kg and sugammadex 4 mg/kg groups did not significantly differ in all efficacy variables. Importantly, adamgammadex 9 mg/kg permitted reversal within a geometric mean of 2.9 min. According to the safety profile, adamgammadex achieved good tolerance and low incidence of drug‐related adverse events compared with the 4 mg/kg sugammadex. Adamgammadex 7, 8, and 9 mg/kg facilitated rapid reversal of deep rocuronium‐induced NMB and had good tolerance and low incidence of drug‐related adverse events. Therefore, adamgammadex is a potential and promising alternative to sugammadex.
Teclistamab: Mechanism of action, clinical, and translational science
Authors: Guo Yue , Quijano Cardé Natalia A. , Kang Lijuan , Verona Raluca , Banerjee Arnob , Kobos Rachel , Chastain Katherine , Uhlar Clarissa , Pillarisetti Kodandaram , Doyle Margaret , Smit Jennifer , Haddish‐Berhane Nahor , Ouellet Daniele
Published: January 2024

Multiple myeloma (MM) remains incurable despite improvements in treatment options. B‐cell maturation antigen (BCMA) is predominantly expressed in B‐lineage cells and represents a promising new target for MM. Teclistamab (TECVAYLITM) is the first T‐cell redirecting bispecific antibody approved for patients with MM. Targeting both CD3 receptor complex on T cells and BCMA on myeloma cells, teclistamab leads to T‐cell activation and subsequent lysis of BCMA+ cells. The recommended dose of teclistamab is 1.5 mg/kg subcutaneous weekly after two step‐up doses of 0.06 and 0.3 mg/kg, which was selected after review of safety, efficacy, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic data. Exposure‐response analyses of efficacy and safety data were also used to confirm the teclistamab dose. Teclistamab resulted in a high rate of deep and durable responses (63% overall response, 45.5% complete response or better, with 22 months median duration of response) in patients with triple‐exposed relapsed/refractory MM. Common adverse reactions included cytokine release syndrome, hematologic abnormalities, and infections. Teclistamab is currently being investigated as monotherapy as well as combination therapy across different MM indications.
Trust, value, and public opinion: Learning to listen
Authors: Dickenson Victoria
Published: January 2024

How do museum professionals know that the institutions they serve are valued by the public? And who are the public or publics being served? Why should museums be trusted? It can be argued that one of the most important elements of professional knowledge is an understanding of the publics we serve and what the people who constitute these publics value in, and about museums. Despite its importance, the question has been little studied. This paper uses two national public opinion surveys conducted in Canada nearly 50 years apart to document changing perceptions of museums in Canada over the last half century and places their findings in the context of comparative studies in the United States, Europe, and Britain. The paper also looks at the curious tension between what museum professionals think about museums and what the public says about them, and how this can shape museum theory and practice.
Identifizierung von Biomarkern und neuen therapeutischen Zielen beim Aderhautmelanom
Authors: Wessely Anja , Koch Elias A. T. , Vera Julio , Berking Carola , Heppt Markus V.
Published: January 2024

Das Uveamelanom (UM) ist eine seltene Krebserkrankung, obwohl es der häufigste Tumor des Auges bei Erwachsenen ist. Die Patienten werden meist in Hautkrebszentren zur Behandlung der metastasierten Erkrankung vorgestellt. Es gibt jedoch erhebliche genetische, biologische und klinische Unterschiede zum kutanen Melanom. Die bei metastasiertem UM am häufigsten eingesetzten Therapien sind Tebentafusp und die kombinierte Immuncheckpoint‐Blockade, die beide niedrige Ansprechraten aufweisen und mit hohen Behandlungskosten und erheblichen immunbedingten Toxizitäten verbunden sein können. Daher ist es von größter Bedeutung, einerseits Biomarker und klinische Profile zu identifizieren, die das Ansprechen auf die Behandlung vorhersagen können und andererseits neue therapeutische Ziele zu finden. Der Einsatz der Immuncheckpoint‐Blockade zeigte in einer Reihe retrospektiver Studien günstigere Ergebnisse bei Patienten mit extrahepatischer Metastasierung und normalen Laktatdehydrogenase‐Werten im Serum, so dass ihr Einsatz in dieser Subgruppe sinnvoller scheint. Um neue Zielmoleküle für Medikamente zu identifizieren, werden wir die Expression und Relevanz von Transkriptionsfaktoren der Neuralleiste in Bioproben von Patienten mit Next‐Generation‐Sequenzierung der dritten Generation analysieren. Computeralgorithmen und netzwerkbasierte Analysen werden die Identifizierung von Zielstrukturen für Medikamente erleichtern, die anschließend in Kurzzeit‐Zellkulturen von Patienten validiert werden. Dieser Ansatz wird dazu beitragen, neue und personalisierte Behandlungen für das UM zu finden.