bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improvement of ultra-small-angle XPCS with the Extremely Brilliant Source
Authors: Chèvremont William , Zinn Thomas , Narayanan Theyencheri
Published: November 2023

Recent technical developments and the performance of the X-ray photon correlation spectroscopy (XPCS) method over the ultra-small-angle range with the Extremely Brilliant Source (EBS) at the ESRF are described. With higher monochromatic coherent photon flux (∼1012 photons s−1) provided by the EBS and the availability of a fast pixel array detector (EIGER 500K detector operating at 23000 frames s−1), XPCS has become more competitive for probing faster dynamics in relatively dilute suspensions. One of the goals of the present development is to increase the user-friendliness of the method. This is achieved by means of a Python-based graphical user interface that enables online visualization and analysis of the processed data. The improved performance of XPCS on the Time-Resolved Ultra-Small-Angle X-ray Scattering instrument (ID02 beamline) is demonstrated using dilute model colloidal suspensions in several different applications.
1-(Pyridin-4-yl)-4-thiopyridine (PTP) in the crystalline state – pure PTP and a cocrystal and salt
Authors: Wzgarda-Raj Kinga , Wlaźlak Marcin , Ksiąźkiewicz Olga , Palusiak Marcin
Published: November 2023

The first in situ preparation and single-crystal structure identification of pure 1-(pyridin-4-yl)-4-thiopyridine (PTP), C10H8N2S, a simple and basic derivative of mercaptopyridine, from a crystallization mixture is described. The same PTP was found in two multicomponent crystal forms with 3,5-dinitrobenzoic acid as a classic two-component cocrystal, namely, 1-(pyridin-4-yl)-4-thiopyridine–3,5-dinitrobenzoic acid (1/1), C7H4N2O6·C10H8N2S, and with 2-hydroxy-3,5-dinitrobenzoic acid as a salt formed via proton transfer from the hydroxy group of the acid to the pyridyl N atom of PTP, namely, 4-(4-sulfanylidene-1,4-dihydropyridin-1-yl)pyridin-1-ium 1-carboxy-3,5-dinitrophenolate, C10H9N2S+·C7H3N2O7
−. The protonation energy of PTP is 944.64 kJ mol−1, indicating slightly greater N-basicity compared to pyridine, a well characterized and very basic chemical reference. A variety of molecular interactions can be observed in the three new crystal structures of PTP, which are all discussed in detail. Our findings confirm those of previous studies, indicating that PTP and 4-mercaptopyridine may, under suitable conditions, be chemically converted to one another, and that this process can be stimulated by light (UV–Vis).
No worries, eBay: displaying sales level information does not increase consumer price sensitivity
Authors: He Yongfu , Oppewal Harmen , Chung Yuho , Peng Ling
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to study how price and sales level information influence consumer product perceptions and choices in online settings. It, in particular, tests whether displaying sales level information increases consumer price sensitivity, which is a potential strategic risk to retailers.

Design/methodology/approach

Study 1 uses eBay data to investigate whether the interaction effects between price and sales level can be observed in an existing market. Study 2 involves online experiments across three product categories. Participants choose from product pairs that are shown with either the same or different prices and with no, the same or different sales levels.

Findings

Study 1 shows strong effects of a product’s displayed sales and price level on its daily sales but finds no interaction effect. Study 2 shows strong effects of price and sales levels on product choice but similarly finds no evidence that sales level information influences consumer price sensitivity, although it reveals an effect on quality perceptions. The results show how perceptions of quality, sacrifice and popularity mediate the effects of price and sales level information on product choice.

Research limitations/implications

Study 1 has limited control over prices and sales levels. Study 2 involves only hypothetical choices.

Practical implications

These findings indicate that businesses can use sales level information to manage consumer product quality perceptions and choices without having to be concerned that this will make consumers more price-sensitive.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper is the first to investigate how sales level information affects consumer responses to price differences in online contexts.
Informational inequality: the role of resources and attributes in information security awareness
Authors: Lyon Gregory
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The rapid expansion of internet usage and device connectivity has underscored the importance of understanding the public’s cyber behavior and knowledge. Despite this, there is little research that examines the public’s objective knowledge of secure information security practices. The purpose of this study is to examine how objective cyber awareness is distributed throughout society.

Design/methodology/approach

This study draws on a large national survey of adults to examine the relationship between individual factors – such as demographic attributes and socioeconomic resources – and information security awareness. The study estimates several statistical models using weighted logistic regression to model objective information security awareness.

Findings

The results indicate that socioeconomic resources such as income and education have a significant effect on individuals’ information security awareness with richer and more highly educated individuals exhibiting greater awareness of important security practices and tools. Additionally, age and gender represent consistent and clear informational gaps in society as older individuals and females are significantly less knowledgeable about an array of information security practices than younger individuals and males, respectively.

Social implications

The findings have important implications for our understanding of information security behavior and user vulnerability in an increasingly digital and connected society. Despite the growing importance of cybersecurity for all individuals in nearly all domains of daily life, there is substantial inequality in awareness about secure cyber practices and the tools and techniques used to protect one’s self from attacks. While digital technology will continue to permeate many aspects of daily life – from financial transactions to health services to social interactions – the findings here indicate that some users may be far more exposed and vulnerable to attack than others.

Originality/value

This study contributes to our understanding of general user information security awareness using a large survey and statistical models to generalize about the public’s information security awareness across multiple domains and stimulates future research on public knowledge of information security. The findings indicate that some users may be far more exposed and vulnerable to attack than others. Despite the growing importance of cybersecurity for all individuals in nearly all domains of daily life, there is substantial inequality in awareness about secure cyber practices and the tools and techniques used to protect one’s self from attacks.
The Tunisian Islamic and conventional banks: a performance comparative study
Authors: Neifar Malika , Gharbi Leila
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to determine whether Islamic banks (IBs) and conventional banks (CBs) in Tunisia are distinguishable from one another based on financial characteristics during the 2005–2014 period covering the 2008 global financial crisis (GFC) and the 2011 Tunisian revolution.

Design/methodology/approach

For the comparison between IBs and CBs, 11 hypotheses are formulated to distinguish between the two types of banks. The authors use a univariate analysis based on the multi-dimension figures investigation and a multivariate one based on the robust OLS technique for panel linear regression with mixed effects.

Findings

Bank-specific factors, dummy and dummy interacting variables indicate that there are differences between Islamic and conventional bank behavior. Both methods show that IBs are more liquid, more profitable and riskier than CBs. Post-2011 Tunisian revolution, small IBs (small CBs) are more (less) solvent, large IBs are more stable and both types of banks are more liquid, which explain why Tunisian governments have relay on bank system to cover budget deficits post-2011 revolution.

Originality/value

In investigating the feature of IBs and CBs from the Tunisian context, the authors take into account the effect of two abnormal events (2008 GFC and 2011 Tunisian revolution) on IBs through interaction variables.
Customer equity drivers and repurchase intent among B2B customers: the moderating role of perceived switching cost
Authors: Srivastava Vibhava , Rangarajan Deva , Badrinarayanan Vishag
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the role of three customer equity drivers on customer repurchase intent in business-to-business (B2B) markets. It also explores the interconnected nature of equity drivers, specifically, the effects of brand equity and value equity on relationship equity. Further, it investigates how perceived switching costs moderates the interrelationships between customer equity drivers. The authors explore the interrelationships between the customer equity drivers in a B2B context involving commodity products in a developing market.

Design/methodology/approach

Data collection was done from a pool of 184 institutional customers of a lubricant brand in a developing market. The sample had representations of buyer organizations across sectors, namely, automobile, cement, metal, fertilizer, railway, defence and mining, etc. The final data were subjected to partial least squares-based structural equation modeling to test the hypothesized model.

Findings

The study found a direct effect of brand equity, and value equity on relationship equity and an indirect effect on repurchase intent, namely, relationship equity. Perceived switching cost was found to moderate the interaction between brand equity and relationship equity as well as between value equity and relationship equity. The direct effect of relationship equity on repurchase intent was also significant.

Practical implications

The study implies that B2B firms should ground their marketing program on these customer equity drivers, especially when dealing with commodity products. The absence of any of these drivers would be detrimental in customer retention. The study also establishes the relevance of switching cost(s) and its impact on the underlying dynamics between the different equity drivers in the context of commodity products. The customer equity drivers along with switching costs, if managed well, may become switching barriers for customers and eventually would ensure recurring revenue through repeat purchases.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is one of the first studies that focuses on the disaggregated effect of customer equity on customer outcomes in the B2B context. Furthermore, this study investigates how perceived switching costs moderates the interrelationships between customer equity drivers in the industrial sales context in an emerging market.
International diversification and European firm value: the role of operating efficiency
Authors: Ibrahim Islam , Falkenbach Heidi
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impact of international diversification on the value and operating efficiency of European real estate firms.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is conducted using a panel fixed effects regression model to estimate the relationship of international diversification with firm value and operating efficiency. International diversification is mainly measured via the negative of the Herfindahl–Hirschman Index (HHI) using property-level data. Firm value and operating efficiency are proxied by financial ratios observed annually from 2002 to 2021 at the firm level.

Findings

The results demonstrate that international diversification has a negative effect on firm value. Additionally, it lowers operating efficiency by weakening a firm's ability to generate operating earnings from its assets. By examining whether the reduction in operating efficiency is due to the rental income channel or the capital gains channel, the authors find strong statistical evidence that international diversification negatively impacts capital gains. International diversification is negatively associated with net gains from property valuations (unrealized capital gains) and net profits from property disposals (realized capital gains).

Research limitations/implications

The empirical analysis is limited to Europe.

Originality/value

This paper extends the geographical diversification literature. While existing literature focuses on domestic diversification within the United States, this paper explores the effects of international diversification on European real estate firms. To the extent of the authors' knowledge, this is the first paper to examine the impact of geographical diversification on capital gains.
Does trust matter in external audits? The role of audit committee chair’s trust in external audits
Authors: Cheung Kwok Yip , Lai Chung Yee
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impact of the audit committee chair’s trust on the quality of interactions between the external auditor and the audit committee chair in Hong Kong.

Design/methodology/approach

The research uses a questionnaire survey to gather data from the audit committee chairs of the listed companies in Hong Kong, with a response rate of 19.2%. Partial least squares structural equation modelling is used in this study.

Findings

The results reveal that the audit committee chair’s trust in the external auditor’s competence, integrity and goodwill is an important determinant of the interaction quality. The findings also show that interaction quality during the pre-engagement stage is important to mediate the relationships between the three dimensions of trust and interaction quality during the audit performance stage.

Originality/value

This is the first study, to the best of the author’s knowledge, that examines the impact of the audit committee chair’s trust in the external auditor on the quality of their interactions. The findings provide insights for board of directors, auditors and policymakers to implement policies that enhance trust between them to improve audit quality.
Local staples, and global solutions: optimizing the effect of traditional fermentation on heavy metals and mineral nutrients
Authors: Anyimah-Ackah Ekpor
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the effect of traditional fermentation on gari’s total heavy metal and mineral nutrient content.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a quantitative approach, descriptive-analytical design to baseline the risk of heavy metals and experimental design to assess the effect of traditional fermentation. Data were analyzed using descriptives, univariate and multivariate analysis.

Findings

Although gari is rich in mineral nutrients (total calcium 3.9 ± 0.1 g/kg, copper 5.5 ± 0.02 mg/kg, iron 97.1 ± 5.8 mg/kg, potassium 9.1 ± 0.29 g/kg and zinc 3.4 ± 0.11 mg/kg), the significant levels of heavy metals (total arsenic 1.2 ± 0.01, cadmium 2.5 ± 0.04, lead 1.7 ± 0.01, mercury 2.8 ± 0.01 and tin 1.7 ± 0.02 mg/kg) present are a cause for concern. The results further suggested that traditional fermentation has reductive effects on some heavy metals and stabilizing or concentrating effects on mineral nutrients.

Research limitations/implications

This paper provides evidence that traditional fermentation may have exploitable differential effects on heavy metal contaminants and mineral nutrients that should be further explored.

Practical implications

Thise study reports fermentation implications for mitigating food with high heavy metal contaminants with minimal nutrient loss.

Originality/value

This study fulfills an identified need to optimize traditional fermentation to ensure food safety and nutrient security.
It's too late – the post has gone viral already: a novel methodological stance to explore K-12 teachers' lived experiences of adult cyber abuse
Authors: Arantes Janine
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this scoping rapid review was to identify and analyse existing qualitative methodologies that have been used to investigate K-12 teachers' lived experiences of adult cyber abuse as a result of student content “going viral” to propose a novel methodological stance incorporating the Australian Online Safety Act 2021.

Design/methodology/approach

A search of Google Scholar was conducted using keywords and phrases related to cyber trauma, teachers, qualitative methods and the Online Safety Act. Inclusion criteria for the review were: (1) published in English, (2) focused on teachers' experiences of online abuse and cyberbullying associated with viral posts and (3) employed a qualitative inquiry methodology. Full-text articles were obtained for those that met the inclusion criteria. Data were extracted and analysed using a PRISMA flowchart and inductive thematic analysis.

Findings

This methodology is considered to be justified, as the eSafety Commissioner's Safety-by-Design principles do not have any legal or regulatory enforceability, whereas the Online Safety Act 2021 provides the Australian eSafety Commissioner an avenue to drive greater algorithmic transparency and accountability.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this review informed the development of a novel methodological stance for investigating Australian teachers' lived experiences of adult cyber abuse associated with viral posts. It provides a methodological positioning to support trauma informed qualitative research into adult cyber abuse, informed by the work of the eSafety Commissioner and the Online Safety Act.

Originality/value

Cybertrauma is described as “any trauma that is a result of self- or, other-directed interaction with, mediated through, or from any electronic Internet/cyberspace ready device or machine learning algorithm, that results in impact now or the future” (Knibbs, 2021). It may result from the tracking of movement through various mobile phone features and applications such as location sharing, non-consensual monitoring of social media, and humiliation or punishment through the sharing of intimate images online, through to direct messages of abuse or threats of violence or humiliation. These actions are further perpetuated through automated searches, insights and recommendations on social media (i.e. engagement metrics promote memes, Facebook posts, Tweets, Tiktoks, Youtubes and so on). This is a novel methodology, as it not only considers direct cybertrauma but also automated forms of cybertrauma.
The effect of working capital investment on firm value and long-term investment: evidence from Indian manufacturing sector
Authors: Roshan  , Chatnani Niti Nandini
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study investigates the relationship between working capital investment (WCI) and firm value for Indian manufacturing firms using excess net working capital (NWC) and Tobin's Q as a measure of WCI and firm value, respectively. The study also examines whether firms use the cash released from excess investment in working capital to make long-term investments.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample comprises 834 Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) listed Indian manufacturing firms whose data from April 2010 to March 2020 are analyzed using a fixed-effect panel regression analysis approach.

Findings

The empirical results show that excess NWC influences firm value negatively and significantly. However, the nature of the relationship becomes nonlinear upon dividing the sample into positive excess NWC and negative excess NWC. The findings from the study also reveal that firms redistribute cash freed from positive excess NWC for long-term investments to improve their value without impacting the corresponding risk.

Practical implications

Overall, the results suggest that firms with positive excess NWC can enhance their valuations by building adequate long-term investments from surplus WCI funds.

Originality/value

To the authors’ best knowledge, studies on this issue have primarily focused on developed economies. No study seems to have been done on this subject in the emerging South Asian economies. The present study is the first to bridge the research gap by investigating the relationship between excess WCI and firm value for manufacturing firms in India. Moreover, it examines whether a positive excess NWC reduction translates into corporate investments (CI).
Financial performance in Industry 4.0 agile supply chains: evidence from manufacturing companies
Authors: Gangaraju Phanitha Kalyani , Raj Rohit , Kumar Vimal , Akhil N.S.B. , De Tanmoy , Kaswan Mahender Singh
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the implementation of agile practices in Industry 4.0 to assess the financial performance measurements of manufacturing firms. It also investigates the relationship between supply chain performance and financial performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on an experimental research design by collecting data from 329 responses from key officials of manufacturing firms. The analyses are carried out to explore this modern concept with the help of the SPSS program, which is used to conduct a confirmatory factor and reliability analysis and Smart-partial least square (PLS) version 4.0 with structural equation modeling.

Findings

This research demonstrates the positive effect agile supply chain strategies in Industry 4.0 may have on manufacturing companies' financial performance as a whole. Everything throughout the supply chain in Industry 4.0, from the manufacturers to the end users, is taken into account as a potential performance booster. The values obtained from the model's study show that it is both dependable and effective, surpassing the threshold for such claims. The research is supported by factors like customer involvement (CUS), continuous improvement (CI), integration (INT), modularity (MOD), management style (MS) and supplier involvement (SI) but is undermined by factors including postponement (PPT).

Research limitations/implications

According to the findings of the study, Industry 4.0 firms' financial performance and overall competitiveness are significantly improved when their supply chains are more agile. A more agile supply chain helps businesses to more rapidly adapt to shifts in consumer demand, shorten the amount of time it takes to produce a product, enhance product quality and boost customer happiness. As a consequence of this, there will be an increase in revenue, an improvement in profitability and continued sustainable growth.

Originality/value

There are literary works available on agile practices in various fields, but the current study outlines the need to understand how supply chains perform financially under the mediating effect of agile supply chains in Industry 4.0 which contribute most to the organization's success. The study will aid companies in understanding how agile practices will further the overall performance of the organization financially.
Adapting an anti‐bullying programme for UK special schools
Authors: Badger Julia R. , Bowes Lucy , Salmivalli Christina , Hastings Richard P.
Published: November 2023

Bullying is a public health priority but to date, there is a lack of evidence‐based anti‐bullying programmes or interventions designed for use in special schools. KiVa is a successful anti‐bullying programme for mainstream schools currently used in 23 countries. This brief paper outlines the co‐development and adaptation of two KiVa lessons into KiVa‐SEND lessons and their implementation in two special schools in the UK. One school supports pupils with a primary need of Autism, the other supports pupils with severe and complex learning disabilities. Engagement with the lessons was high from both pupils and staff; the content was perceived as acceptable by staff, complementing the curriculum and perceived as suitable for their pupils. Minor adjustments need to be made to ensure all pupils can comprehend and access the concepts. Further development of the KiVa‐SEND programme and testing its potential effectiveness to reduce bullying and associated negative outcomes in special schools is now warranted.

Key Points

There is a lack of evidence‐based anti‐bullying programmes for use in special schools. This paper details the piloting of an adaptation of KiVa (a successful, evidence‐based anti‐bullying programme for mainstream schools) for use in special schools.

The adaption (KiVa‐SEND) was a co‐design between a couple of special school teachers, and educational and psychological researchers to ensure the materials and approach were in line with school requirements and teaching practices.

The KiVa‐SEND lesson engagement was excellent from the 12 staff and 62 learners involved and the materials were deemed acceptable via direct feedback and researcher observations. Suggestions were provided on how to make the materials even more suitable for diverse learning needs.

KiVa‐SEND has the potential to be embedded within the special school curriculum and then be tested for its effectiveness at reducing bullying and associated negative outcomes of bullying amongst the special school population.
Institutional investors and corporate green innovation: Evidence from China
Authors: Yang Zhen , Su Dongwei , Xu Shulin , Han Xu
Published: November 2023

Using data for manufacturing firms listed on China A‐share markets between 2003 and 2018, this research explores the impact of institutional investors on corporate green innovation. The study finds that pressure‐resistant institutional investors (PR investors) positively contribute to green innovation, whereas pressure‐sensitive institutional investors (PS investors) hinder it. In addition, this study examines the moderating effect of political ties, distinguishing between ascribed and achieved ties. Ascribed ties weaken the positive relationship between PR investors and green innovation, whereas achieved ties strengthen it and weaken the negative association between PS investors and green innovation. Moreover, the study investigates the influence of institutional development on the relationship between institutional investors and green innovation, and finds that managerial myopia is the mechanism through which institutional investors influence green innovation. Furthermore, this study reveals that there are heterogeneity effects among small and large firms, polluting and non‐polluting firms, and firms facing different levels of market competition. Overall, the study sheds new light on how institutional investors, acting as ‘invisible hands’, interact with political ties, acting as ‘visible hands’, to impact green innovation in transition economies.
Do voters' biases impede future‐oriented policy‐making?
Authors: CRONERT AXEL , NYMAN PÄR
Published: November 2023

In research on public economics, climate politics and the welfare state, voters' informational and cognitive biases are commonly understood as impeding future‐oriented policy‐making, by incentivizing policymakers to trade off long‐term investments against short‐term consumption when facing competitive elections or liquidity constraints. Yet, the assumptions about how policymakers perceive these alleged trade‐offs have not yet been verified. This study reports results from a survey of Swedish local government politicians, centring around experiments about environmental‐friendly public investments. We find that most politicians perceive that electoral competition stimulates rather than impedes investments. Politicians are, however, less supportive of investments if these need to be financed through absolute losses rather than gains foregone, which illustrates the relevance of endowment effects in long‐term governance. We furthermore show that our micro‐level observations are consistent with macro‐level investment expenditure patterns. These findings demonstrate that accounting for policymakers' own perceptions is important for advancing our understanding of future‐oriented policy‐making.
Feeling stuck and feeling bad: Career plateaus, negative emotions, and counterproductive work behaviors
Authors: Ng Kara , Yang Wei‐Ning
Published: November 2023

Career plateauing has been described as a subjective state that is emotionally unpleasant and associated with unethical work behaviors, yet there is little theoretical explanation or robust evidence to support such claims. This study contributes a theoretical framework for the relationships between career plateauing, emotions, and counterproductive work behaviors (CWB). Building on the stressor‐emotion model of CWB, we propose that employees who perceive themselves as experiencing plateau are likely to commit CWB when they experience negative emotions. We also predict that the strength of this process depends on individuals' emotion regulation ability. Through regression analysis of data from 193 UK‐based employees across three time points, our study finds that both hierarchical and job content plateauing are associated with negative emotions and indirectly related to CWB via negative emotions; neither plateau type is directly related to CWB. Additionally, lower emotion regulation ability strengthens the relationship between job content plateauing and negative emotions, leading to more CWB. This study offers a novel theoretical explanation of how plateauing affects employees' emotions and deviant behaviors. It also provides important practical guidance for managers by showing that plateaued employees are not inherently problematic to the organization. By proactively understanding and managing plateaued individuals' feelings, managers can more likely prevent negative emotions from triggering deviant behaviors.
Role of hydrogels in osteoarthritis: A comprehensive review
Authors: Xu Yuan , Wang Jing‐Yan , Meng Tian , Ma Xue‐Wei , Li Hao , Li Kai
Published: November 2023

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic, degenerative, and age‐related disease. It is characterized by chronic inflammation, progressive articular cartilage destruction, and subchondral bone sclerosis. The current effective treatment for OA is limited. Hydrogel is a kind of unique carrier with well‐known biocompatibility, softness, and high water content among various biomaterials. Hydrogels are developed for different biomedical applications, for instance, drug delivery, and tissue engineering. To date, a variety of hydrogels‐based therapies have been used in OA patients or animal models. In this review, we comprehensively summarized the potential role of hydrogels in chondrocytes proliferation, apoptosis, and inflammatory component production and discussed the impact of hydrogels on OA development. The collection of this information will help better understand the present progress of hydrogels in OA.
An ultrasound‐guided serratus anterior plane block with continuous local anaesthetic infusion and epidural analgesia for rib fracture pain
Authors: Lundén Anna R. , Tarkkila Pekka
Published: November 2023

Background

We compared analgesia with an ultrasound (US)‐guided serratus anterior plane block (SAPB) to thoracic epidural analgesia (EA) with continuous local anaesthetic infusion in patients with unilateral multiple traumatic rib fractures. EA often carries contraindications in patients with multiple rib fractures (MRFs), whereby having alternative effective methods to treat rib fracture pain remains important to patient care. Thus, we hypothesised that both regional anaesthetic techniques would provide effective pain relief.

Methods

In this study, we included 59 patients with unilateral MRFs and a numerical rating scale (NRS) pain score ≥4 at rest or upon movement. Patients were randomised to receive a US‐guided SAPB or continuous infusion EA with 2 mg/mL ropivacaine. Patients were given a patient‐controlled analgesia (PCA) device with intravenous oxycodone boluses for rescue medication. The primary outcome was a change in the NRS score at rest and upon movement from baseline to Day 2 following the block. We also measured the forced expiratory volume in 1 s of expiration (FEV1) and FEV1% at the same time points when NRS was measured. The total consumption of oxycodone with PCA was measured at 24 and 48 h after the block.

Results

We detected a significant reduction (≥2) in NRS for both groups; however, EA associated with a greater reduction in NRS upon movement after block initiation. The mean reduction in NRS upon movement within 1 h was 3 (1.8, p < .01) in the SAPB group versus 4.7 (2.4, p < .01) in the EA group. We found no significant difference between groups in pain scores on Days 1 and 2 following the block. In the EA group, FEV1% increase in the first 12 h from baseline. Finally, PCA oxycodone consumption did not differ between groups.

Conclusions

SAPB with continuous local anaesthetic infusion is an effective alternative to treat rib fracture pain when EA is contraindicated. We found that SABP significantly reduces pain in patients with unilateral MRFs, although EA achieves better analgesia over the first 12 h following the block.
Women with depression in pregnancy or a history of depression have decreased quality of mentalization in the speech to their infants
Authors: Rebecchini Lavinia , Bind Rebecca H. , Allegri Beatrice , Zamparelli Arianna , Biaggi Alessandra , Hazelgrove Katie , Osborne Sarah , Conroy Susan , Pawlby Susan , Sethna Vaheshta , Pariante Carmine M.
Published: November 2023

Background

Our study aims to understand whether depression, either in pregnancy or lifetime, affects cognitive biases (comprising the attentional focus and affective state) and mentalizing features (ability to understand children's internal mental states, thereby detecting and comprehending their behavior and intention), in maternal speech during mother‐infant interaction in the first postnatal year.

Methods

We recruited 115 pregnant women (44 healthy, 46 with major depressive disorder [MDD] in pregnancy, and 25 with a history of MDD but healthy pregnancy) at 25 weeks' gestation. Three‐minute videos were recorded at 8 weeks and 12 months postnatally for each dyad. Maternal speech was transcribed verbatim and coded for cognitive biases and mentalizing comments using the Parental Cognitive Attributions and Mentalization Scale (PCAMs).

Results

Women suffering from antenatal depression showed a decreased proportion of mentalizing comments compared with healthy women, at both 8 weeks (0.03 ± 0.01 vs. 0.07 ± 0.01, P = 0.002) and 12 months (0.02 ± 0.01 vs. 0.04 ± 0.01, P = 0.043). Moreover, compared with healthy women, both those with antenatal depression and those with a history of depression showed decreased positive affection in speech (0.13 ± 0.01 vs. 0.07 ± 0.01 and 0.08 ± 0.02, respectively P = 0.003 and P = 0.043), and made significantly fewer comments focused on their infants' experience at 8 weeks (0.67 ± 0.03 vs. 0.53 ± 0.04 and 0.49 ± 0.05, respectively P = 0.015 and P = 0.005). In linear regression models women's socioeconomic difficulties and anxiety in pregnancy contribute to these associations, while postnatal depression did not.

Conclusions

Both antenatal depression and a lifetime history of depression are associated with a decreased quality of women's speech to their infants, as shown by less focus on their infant's experience, decreased positive affection, and less able to mentalize. Examining maternal speech to their infants in the early postnatal months may be particularly relevant to identify women who could benefit from strategies addressing these aspects of the interactive behavior and thus improve infant outcome in the context of depression.
Mobile phone network expansion and agricultural income: A panel study
Authors: Fluhrer Svenja , Kraehnert Kati
Published: November 2023

This study examines how the expansion of mobile phone networks affects rural development in Mongolia. The database is a detailed household panel survey with four waves implemented in western Mongolia, spanning the 2012–2021 period, which we combine with data on mobile phone towers. Our identification strategy exploits the uneven roll‐out of mobile phone networks across rural areas over time. Using a two‐way fixed effects approach, we show that network expansion strongly and significantly increases total household income of pastoralist households. The effect is driven by increased income from agriculture, particularly by higher producer prices for animal byproducts, improved access to transfer income, and increased household mobility. The expansion of mobile phone networks decreases income diversification among pastoralists. Instead, households specialize in agriculture. While findings suggest that investments in telecommunication infrastructure can help rural households to sustain a livelihood in the agricultural sector, the specialization in agriculture may increase households’ vulnerability to climate change.
Short communication: Where is women's cardiovascular health taught in Australian and New Zealand medical schools?
Authors: Hasdarngkul Aphakorn , Hennessy Annemarie , Vignarajan Shivany
Published: November 2023

Cardiovascular disease is a major cause of mortality in women and is the leading cause of pregnancy‐related mortality in Australia. This study aims to discover the extent of teaching regarding women's cardiovascular health in Australian and New Zealand medical schools. All 22 medical schools in Australia and New Zealand were approached for participation in completing this survey. Seven medical schools (32%) completed the survey and demonstrated that within our sample population, findings suggest that while women's cardiovascular health is present in medical curricula, there is a large variability in the rigour and depth as to which it is taught, as well as possible lack of explicit teaching and examination regarding this topic.
Epidemiology of geographic atrophy and its precursor features of intermediate age‐related macular degeneration
Authors: Vujosevic Stela , Alovisi Camilla , Chakravarthy Usha
Published: November 2023

Globally age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of blindness with a significant impact on quality of life. Geographic atrophy (GA) is the atrophic late form of AMD and its prevalence increases markedly with age with around 1 in 5 persons aged 85 and above having GA in at least one eye. Bilateral GA leads to severe visual impairment thus posing a significant burden on patients, careers and health providers. The incidence and prevalence of GA varies across different geographic regions, with the highest rates in those of European ancestry. Although heterogeneity in definitions of GA and reporting strategy can explain some of the discrepancies, the data overall are consistent in showing a lower prevalence in other ethnicities such as those of Asian heritage. This is at present unexplained but thought to be due to the existence of protective factors such as differences in eye pigmentation, diet, environmental exposures and genetic variability. This review covers key aspects of the prevalence and incidence of the ocular precursor features of GA (large drusen, pigmentary abnormalities and reticular pseudo‐drusen), the late stage of GA and factors that have been known to be associated with modifying risk including systemic, demographic, environment, genetic and ocular. Understanding the global epidemiology scenario is crucial for the prevention of and management of patients with GA.
Geographic atrophy – Signs, symptoms, and quality of life
Authors: Krogh Nielsen Marie , Hinnerskov Jenni Martinez Villarruel , Sørensen Torben Lykke
Published: November 2023

Geographic atrophy (GA) is a prevalent cause of vision loss among elderly and is associated with a significant loss of function. We reviewed the current literature to assess the effect of GA on patients' daily lives and well‐being. We record and organize the signs, symptoms, and impacts that are important in life with GA. Further, we examined the impact of GA on vision‐related quality of life. The main complaint among patients was difficulties regarding daily tasks, especially reading and other near activities. However, a large proportion of patients also reported fear, frustration, and anxiety as salient symptoms with large impact. Many patients do not have adequate information about their condition as well as the prognosis. The most commonly used measure of patient‐reported outcome measure (PROM) is the National Eye Institute Visual Function Questionnaire (VFQ), that reflects the severity of impact on 12 subscales, from where near activities, general vision, mental health, and role difficulties had the lowest scores. Longitudinal studies of GA and the impact of low‐vision rehabilitation efforts on health‐related quality of life are sparse but suggest a significant improvement on several items. PROM is included in clinical trials, and so far, no drug has shown to improve the functional outcome in terms of PROM.
Multimodal imaging and deep learning in geographic atrophy secondary to age‐related macular degeneration
Authors: Pfau Maximilian , Künzel Sandrine H. , Pfau Kristina , Schmitz‐Valckenberg Steffen , Fleckenstein Monika , Holz Frank G.
Published: November 2023

Geographic atrophy (GA) secondary to age‐related macular degeneration is among the most common causes of irreversible vision loss in industrialized countries. Recently, two therapies have been approved by the US FDA. However, given the nature of their treatment effect, which primarily involves a relative decrease in disease progression, discerning the individual treatment response at the individual level may not be readily apparent. Thus, clinical decision‐making may have to rely on the quantification of the slope of GA progression before and during treatment. A panel of imaging modalities and artificial intelligence (AI)‐based algorithms are available for such quantifications. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the fundamentals of GA imaging, the procedures for diagnosis and classification using these images, and the cutting‐edge role of AI algorithms in automatically deriving diagnostic and prognostic insights from imaging data.
Novel evidence on the asymmetric J‐curve in the commodity trade between Korea and China: evidence from 75 industries
Authors: Zhao Shengliang , Liu Lixin
Published: November 2023

The real bilateral exchange rate between Korean won and Chinese yuan is a crucial factor in balancing trade between Korea and China and has implications for both academics and policymakers. Prior research using symmetry hypotheses on bilateral trade and its heterogeneity among industries is limited. This study re‐examines the symmetric and asymmetric J‐curve phenomenon between them, employing the linear and nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag models. It considered the January 2008–June 2022 trade balance of 75 industries. This analysis shows support for the symmetric (asymmetric) J‐curve in 4 of 12 industries from the linear (nonlinear) model, accounting for 58.55% of the total trade between Korea and China. Furthermore, short‐ and long‐run asymmetries are detected in most industries, affirming the suitability of the nonlinear ARDL method.
The Impact of the Tone of a Prospectus on IPO Underpricing: Evidence from China
Authors: Qi Jun , Chi Qinwei , Yang Ni , Ouyang Junyan
Published: November 2023

A prospectus is an essential disclosure document requested by stock market regulators and used by potential investors to acquire necessary information about the fair value estimate of an initial public offering (IPO) and subsequent investment decisions. Using IPO firms in China during the period 2007 to 2017, this study provides novel evidence for the impact of the tone of a prospectus on IPO underpricing. The results show that the tone of a prospectus is positively associated with underpricing. Supplementary analyses show that the positive effect of prospectus tone on IPO underpricing is more pronounced for IPO firms having CEO duality and large board size, lower managerial shareholding and institutional shareholding, and big audit firms and prestigious underwriters. Finally, the results indicate that the positive tone of a prospectus is able to predict negative operating performance in future.
Gender‐affirming hormone therapy effect on cortisol levels in trans males and trans females
Authors: Sofer Yael , Osher Esther , Abu Ahmad Wiessam , Yacobi Bach Michal , Even Zohar Naomi , Zaid Dana , Golani Nehama , Moshe Yaffa , Tordjman Karen , Stern Naftali , Greenman Yona
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Previous studies have shown differences in baseline and stimulated cortisol levels between men and women. Whether this difference is secondary to sex hormones or to other factors, such as genetic or epigenetic changes, is unknown. We investigated the effect of gender‐affirming hormone treatment (GAHT) on the hypothalamo‐pituitary‐adrenal axis of transgender subjects in an effort to throw light on this question.

Methods

Ten transgender males (TM) and eight transgender females (TF) underwent a low‐dose (1 µg) adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test before and 6 months after GAHT initiation. Serum total, free and salivary cortisol (SC) levels were measured at baseline and at 20, 30 and 40 min.

Results

For the TM, all three levels were significantly lower at several time points after ACTH injection compared to pretreatment levels following 6 months of treatment (p < .05). Likewise, the overall SC response as calculated by the area under the curve was significantly lower (p = .0053). For the TF, the basal total cortisol (TC) level increased after 6 months of treatment (p < .01) while ACTH‐stimulated SC levels decreased significantly. The basal ACTH levels were significantly lower following hormonal therapy (p < .001).

Conclusion

Stimulated salivary cortisol levels decreased significantly after 6 months of GAHT in both male and female transgender subjects, possibly reflecting a decreased state of anxiety associated with treatment initiation. Additionally, basal and stimulated serum TC levels increased after hormonal treatment in the TF, probably secondary to the effect of oestrogen on cortisol‐binding globulin.
CLASSICA: Validating artificial intelligence in classifying cancer in real time during surgery
Authors: Moynihan A. , Hardy N. , Dalli J. , Aigner F. , Arezzo A. , Hompes R. , Knol J. , Tuynman J. , Cucek J. , Rojc J. , Rodríguez‐Luna M. R. , Cahill R.
Published: November 2023

Aim

Treatment pathways for significant rectal polyps differ depending on the underlying pathology, but pre‐excision profiling is imperfect. It has been demonstrated that differences in fluorescence perfusion signals following injection of indocyanine green (ICG) can be analysed mathematically and, with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI), used to classify tumours endoscopically as benign or malignant. This study aims to validate this method of characterization across multiple clinical sites regarding its generalizability, usability and accuracy while developing clinical‐grade software to enable it to become a useful method.

Methods

The CLASSICA study is a prospective, unblinded multicentre European observational study aimed to validate the use of AI analysis of ICG fluorescence for intra‐operative tissue characterization. Six hundred patients undergoing transanal endoscopic evaluation of significant rectal polyps and tumours will be enrolled in at least five clinical sites across the European Union over a 4‐year period. Video recordings will be analysed regarding dynamic fluorescence patterns centrally as software is developed to enable analysis with automatic classification to happen locally. AI‐based classification and subsequently guided intervention will be compared with the current standard of care including biopsies, final specimen pathology and patient outcomes.

Discussion

CLASSICA will validate the use of AI in the analysis of ICG fluorescence for the purposes of classifying significant rectal polyps and tumours endoscopically. Follow‐on studies will compare AI‐guided targeted biopsy or, indeed, AI characterization alone with traditional biopsy and AI‐guided local excision versus traditional excision with regard to marginal clearance and recurrence.