bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy efficiency of consideration sets and choices: the impact of label format
Authors: Elsen Millie , Leenheer Jorna
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This research examines how the design of the online energy label can be improved to stimulate consumer choice of energy-efficient household products in Web stores. Based on general evaluability theory, the authors propose new label formats that aim to improve the evaluability of the label information for consumers and test their influence during two distinct stages in the online decision-making process: consideration set formation and final choice.

Design/methodology/approach

Two large-scale controlled online experiments are conducted with over 10,000 consumers in 10 European countries. The experiments test label alternatives in simulated online store environments, mimicking the two distinct decision stages, for four product categories to enhance generalizability. The data are analyzed using random-intercept linear and logistic regression models to account for their multi-level structure.

Findings

The results show that the impact of the online energy label on consumers’ online decision-making depends on both the label format and the decision stage (consideration vs choice), but in a different way than expected. The findings reveal that the current online energy label is significantly outperformed by a label that provides reference information by incorporating the scale range. This alternative label is particularly effective in the consideration set formation stage, and among consumers who consider energy efficiency a relatively unimportant choice criterion.

Research limitations/implications

Online energy labels encourage consumers to consider and choose more energy-efficient products, especially if scale range information is included. The present results stress the importance of presenting this information early on in the online decision process. They also show that, particularly at this early stage and particularly for consumers who find energy efficiency a relatively unimportant choice criterion, label format matters.

Practical implications

The present findings provide important input for policymakers in the context of the ongoing revision of the EU energy label. They also help online retailers make decisions about when and how to present product information on their websites.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature on product labelling by examining the effects of relatively unexplored types of reference information in two distinct stages of the consumer decision-making process. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to test the effectiveness of the online energy label.
An efficient method for transient heat conduction problems with local nonlinearities based on the quasi-superposition principle
Authors: Nie Chuanbao , Fu Bowen , Gao Qiang
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to develop an efficient numerical method for nonlinear transient heat conduction problems with local radiation boundary conditions and nonlinear heat sources.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the physical characteristic of the transient heat conduction and the distribution characteristic of the Green’s function, a quasi-superposition principle is presented for the transient heat conduction problems with local nonlinearities. Then, an efficient method is developed, which indicates that the solution of the original nonlinear problem can be derived by solving some nonlinear problems with small structures and a linear problem with the original structure. These problems are independent of each other and can be solved simultaneously by the parallel computing technique.

Findings

Within a small time step, the nonlinear thermal loads can only induce significant temperature responses of the regions near the positions of the nonlinear thermal loads, whereas the temperature responses of the remaining regions are very close to zero. According to the above physical characteristic, the original nonlinear problem can be transformed into some nonlinear problems with small structures and a linear problem with the original structure.

Originality/value

An efficient and accurate numerical method is presented for transient heat conduction problems with local nonlinearities, and some numerical examples demonstrate the high efficiency and accuracy of the proposed method.
Utilization of wavy porous layer, magnetic field and hybrid nanofluid with slot jet impingement on the cooling performance of conductive panel
Authors: Ouni Mohamed , Selimefendigil Fatih , Hatem Besbes , Kolsi Lioua , Omri Mohamed
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyze the impacts of combined utilization of multi-jet impinging cooling of nanofluids with magnetic field and porous layer on the cooling performance, as effective cooling with impinging jets are obtained for various energy systems, including photovoltaic panels, electronic cooling and many other convective heat transfer applications.

Design/methodology/approach

Finite element method is used to explore the magnetic field effects with the inclusion of porous layer on the cooling performance efficiency of slot nanojet impingement system. Impacts of pertinent parameters such as Reynolds number (Re between 250 and 1,000), strength of magnetic field (Ha between 0 and 30), permeability of the porous layer (Da between 0.001 and 0.1) on the cooling performance for flat and wavy surface configurations are explored.

Findings

It is observed that the average Nusselt number (Nu) rises by about 17% and 20.4% for flat and wavy configuration while temperature drop of 4 K is obtained when Re is increased to 1,000 from 250. By using magnetic field at the highest strength, the average Nu rises by about 29% and 7% for flat and wavy cases. Porous layer permeability is an effective way of controlling the cooling performance while up to 44.5% variations in the average Nu is obtained by varying its value. An optimization routine is used to achieve the highest cooling rate while the optimum parameter set is obtained as (Re, Ha, Da, γ, sx) = (1,000, 30, 0.07558, 86.28, 2.585) for flat surface and (Re, Ha, Da, γ, sx) = (1,000, 30, 0.07558, 71.85, 2.329) for wavy surface configurations.

Originality/value

In thermal systems, cooling system design is important for thermal management of various energy systems, including fuel cells, photovoltaic panels, electronic cooling and many others. Impinging jets are considered as effective way of cooling because of its ability to give higher local heat transfer coefficients. This paper offers novel control tools, such as magnetic field, installation of porous layer and hybrid nano-liquid utilization for control of cooling performance with multiple impinging jets.
Linking active labour market policies to digitalisation–a review between remote and automated possibilities
Authors: Scarano Gianluca , Colfer Barry
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to develop a conceptual framework that sets out the linkages that exist between digitalisation and active labour market policies (ALMPs).

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a narrative literature review, this article seeks to connect two research streams, namely that relating to ALMPs and that relating to digitalisation in the public sector. This exercise requires an understanding of both how the context of digitalisation in the public sector has evolved in relation to technological change and the identification of specific ALMPs that are more sensitive to digitalisation.

Findings

Starting from the identification of ideal-types of ALMPs, “employment assistance” can be considered the type of policies most sensitive to digitalisation, looking at main forms of interventions as career guidance, profiling and job-matching tools. The first tool is closer to a technological domain of “remotisation”, while the second is closer to that of “automatisation”.

Practical implications

Achieving an understanding of the different degrees of sensitivity to digitalisation for various types of ALMPs is relevant for policy-making purposes to identify potential priority areas of strategic investment to enhance this sector.

Originality/value

The authors present an understanding of the current state of the digitalisation of public employment services. The literature review itself allowed the authors to conclude that, despite the interests in the public and academic debate, the existing research relating to the digitalisation of public employment services remains scant. At the same time, the article points towards fertile areas for further analysis.
Hotel owners’ perception of tourism in India during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Kabra Shradha
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The paper aims to study hotel owners’ perception of tourism in the five creative cities of India during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured, in-depth interviews (N = 30) and participant observation were the methods used for collecting qualitative data. Data was analysed using content analysis.

Findings

The findings reveal the effect of tourism on the psyche of small and medium enterprise hotel owners. Factors contributing to this anxiety are unpreparedness for the crisis, cash flow problems, failure to be flexible in this crisis, inability to leverage hotel’s location and lack of hygiene habits.

Research limitations/implications

The research illustrated a systemic lack of knowledge and training in the unorganized hotel sector in India which if addressed, could assist the hotel owners and staff in building trust toward tourists and a positive attitude toward the crisis.

Originality/value

As the study analyses the unorganized hotel sector in the Indian context, it provides useful insights for the Indian Government and hospitality industry to foster trust and positivity in this sector during the COVID-19 pandemic which could significantly contribute to its revival and psychological recovery of its stakeholders.
“You don’t meet anybody when walking from the living room to the kitchen”: informal communication during remote work
Authors: Viererbl Benno , Denner Nora , Koch Thomas
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This study aims to analyze the structures, forms and functions of informal communication in telecommuting settings. Previous research on telecommuting has not considered the influence of telecommuting settings on informal communication, and research on informal communication has mainly focused on face-to-face communication while working in a physical office. This article aims to bring these two research strands together by analyzing the informal communication behavior of employees working from home.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted qualitative interviews with 21 employees who were working from home. The participants were recruited using quota sampling and the data were analyzed following the procedure for examining qualitative data proposed by Mayring (2014).

Findings

The findings reveal similarities as well as differences between those working in an office and those working from home in terms of informal communication with co-workers: Informal communication fulfills similar functions in both cases, but remote work leads to less informal communication and hinders incidental exposure to other employees. Informal talks need to be planned in advance or strategically initiated. The authors identified five informal communication scenarios in telecommuting settings that partly, but not fully, overlap with scenarios in regular office settings.

Originality/value

The present study is one of the first to examine informal communication in telecommuting settings. Previous studies have either excluded the aspect of informal communication or the situation for employees working in telecommuting settings. The results provide new insights into informal communication behavior in remote work.
Linking manufacturing and competitive strategies for successful firm performance: a review and reconceptualization
Authors: Das Sidhartha , Canel Cem
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to propose a framework depicting the dynamic links between a firm’s external environment, competitive strategy, manufacturing strategy, competitive advantage and firm performance. This is followed by articulating expected differences among the the content and process dimensions dimensions of a manufacturing strategy for different competitive strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

Today, manufacturing is widely recognized as one of the most important means of creating and sustaining a competitive advantage. This paper studies the emerging broader view of the strategic role of manufacturing by offering a manufacturing strategy model, showing its impact on competitive advantage and, ultimately, firm performance. This is accomplished by identifying and defining major content and process dimensions of manufacturing strategy and relating them to a firm’s strategic type. The paper uses an integrative competitive strategy typology (Segev, 1989) to clarify differences in manufacturing strategy dimensions and different competitive strategies. The concept of “fit as gestalt” among the dimensions of manufacturing strategy is also introduced. This study presents the implications of fit between manufacturing and competitive strategy and the contribution of content and process dimensions of manufacturing strategy to firm performance and concludes by providing implications for executives and future research issues.

Findings

Differences in content and process dimensions of manufacturing strategy for different competitive strategies are clarified.

Research limitations/implications

Other researchers may propose different frameworks for linking manufacturing and competitive strategies.

Originality/value

This paper presents an integrative view of competitive and manufacturing strategies. It highlights the numerous choices companies must make to ensure fit among the competitive strategic types and their corresponding manufacturing strategies. This integration adds coherence and parsimony to the literature. It provides a basis for conceptualizing manufacturing strategy, thus reconciling different strategic perspectives and reducing a potential source of conflicting research results.
Empirical study on consumers’ reluctance to mobile payments in a developing economy
Authors: Ghosh Manimay
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the effect of factors that inhibit adoption of mobile payments service in India.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the extant literature on mobile payment service and other related literature, factors were identified that drive consumer resistance toward its adoption. It engaged “innovation resistance theory” framework for understanding consumer resistance. The framework addressed five categories of barriers, namely, usage, value, risk, image and tradition that lead to negative perception of innovation, and therefore, induces positive impact on its resistance. Additionally, the study considered a few lesser investigated barriers (habitual use of cash, surveillance, technology) for the study, thus extending the existing theoretical framework. Hypotheses were framed, field data were collected and then analyzed using multivariate techniques.

Findings

Few interesting observations were made from the study. Usage, image and value barriers hindered adoption of mobile payment service. In case of men, usage, value and image were the primary barriers. For women, usage, image, habitual use of cash and technology acted as barriers that curbed mobile payments service adoption. Additionally, except risk, tradition and surveillance barriers, relationships of all other constructs with adoption intention were moderated by gender.

Research limitations/implications

This research was limited to the views of the urban population in India who used mobile payments service. The results may vary across geographical contexts because of culture or socioeconomic differences.

Practical implications

The growth of mobile payment service has remained sluggish in India despite high levels of digitization. The study results will offer valuable insights to the Indian business managers and policymakers to identify what action plan needs to be instituted to make mobile payments service more attractive and acceptable to users.

Originality/value

This empirical study extended and tested the classical innovation resistance theory framework by adding three less studied barriers (surveillance, habitual use of cash and technology) in a developing nation, thus enriching the current literature on consumer resistance toward mobile payments. It also examined the moderating effect of gender on mobile payments service adoption.
Apples plus oranges: the role of business profile similarity in shaping M&A outcomes: textual analysis of transaction data from China
Authors: Mielcarz Paweł , Osiichuk Dmytro
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The study aims at inquiring into the relationship between acquirer–target business similarity and mergers and acquisitions (M&A) transaction outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

Relying on textual analysis of acquirers' and targets' business descriptions from M&A transaction synopses, the authors establish that posttransaction operating outcomes are negatively associated with acquirer–target business similarity.

Findings

While similar business profiles allow for optimization of overheads, sales growth and margins demonstrate better dynamics when acquirers and targets are more dissimilar, which allows for greater competitive gains. On average, targets are more dissimilar from acquirers than acquirers are from their competitors. The degree of competition within acquirers' industries and acquirer–competitors' business similarity are found to be positively associated with the likelihood of engaging in serial horizontal acquisitions involving more similar targets, mostly from the domestic market. Competitive pressure is evidenced to push acquirers for a faster completion of acquisition process. Cross-border acquisitions are found to be associated with lower acquirer–target and acquirer–competitors' similarity, which suggests that Chinese companies expand overseas primarily for strategic reasons of gaining a competitive edge rather than to simply improve sales.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the limited pool of empirical literature relying on text mining techniques to establish the determinants of M&A transaction outcomes. The methodology used in the study outperforms the conventional techniques of operationalization of business similarities through General Industry Classification Standard (GICS) industry matching. The study investigates the intermediating role of intraindustry competition in fostering firms' acquisitiveness.
The end of audit. Spectacle and love in the audit society
Authors: Löhlein Lukas , Huber Christian
Published: July 2022

Purpose

A total of 25 years of research on the audit society has provided rich and engaging accounts of the ways in which rituals of verification have conditioned organizations and individuals to think and act. In contrast, this paper aims to explore the possibility of conditions through which things and spaces are enacted to be non-auditable.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the concept of proliferation and rarefaction (Callon and Law, 2005), the paper adopts a case-comparison design to explore two empirical sites. The first investigates a vast excess of audit structures against the case of the biggest corporate fraud in German accounting history, the Wirecard scandal. The second discusses the configuration of Tinder, the most popular provider of mobile dating and the absence of visible verification mechanisms.

Findings

The paper argues that things can become non-auditable through two mechanisms. Based on the two empirical sites, non-auditability can happen through an overload of auditable resources or, through the withdrawal of required resources. The paper discusses the consequences of this finding and suggests avenues for future research on non-auditability.

Originality/value

While accounting scholars have extensively addressed the audit explosion and traced how audit practices have journeyed into ever more novel terrains, this paper discusses forms of escape from the value-subverting and reductive accounts incorporated in the audit society. It thereby points to conditions under which accounting ends.
The problem with printing pitch: challenges in designing 3D printed claves
Authors: Evans Emmeline , McComb Christopher
Published: July 2022

Purpose

Although music education has been proven to benefit students, music programs are often cut when public school funding is reduced. The cost of instruments is a significant financial burden on music programs, which restricts student access to high-quality instruments that would benefit their learning. Therefore, this paper aims to develop additively manufactured, polylactic acid (PLA) claves that could reproduce the sound of wooden claves and be printed by students in schools at a reduced cost to promote equal access to music education regardless of a school’s financial status.

Design/methodology/approach

This study developed a dual approach for analyzing clave vibration using mathematical analysis in MATLAB and SolidWorks finite element frequency simulation to predict the natural frequencies of 15 claves with varying geometries. To evaluate the performance of both models, the authors obtained natural frequencies experimentally by recording the claves and analyzing the resulting frequency spectra. The authors considered the possible effects of damping and determined the effective damping required in both models through comparison with experimental results.

Findings

Results indicate that PLA claves cannot easily be made to replicate the high pitch of rosewood claves while maintaining typical clave dimensions. However, PLA claves could still be suitable in instances where matching pitch is not a primary concern or improved durability is desired. The SolidWorks simulation approach could accurately predict clave pitch for all varieties of clave, whereas the mathematical approach was only accurate in predicting pitch for the filled claves.

Originality/value

In this work, the authors attempted to create an analytical process for simple percussion instrument design, which is typically done with trial-and-error methods. Instead, the authors developed a two-pronged approach in which experimental results were compared to results obtained both mathematically and from a finite element simulation. Additionally, we limited the materials and equipment used to those that would be available in a school setting so that the clave prototypes could be reproduced by public school students, the population this research is intended to serve.
Making rapid shifts in work roles – an essential teamwork skill. An exploratory study of facilitating and inhibiting factors
Authors: Sundlin Anna-Lena , Söderhjelm Teresa Martha , Sandahl Christer
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to explore rapid role shifts at work and to describe the factors that facilitate or inhibit such role shifts, and how these factors affect the employee.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative study was conducted with 12 participants from four public sector organizations. The participants systematically documented their work role shifts over the course of three days. Based on these data, they were interviewed about their shifts in work roles. All data were analyzed thematically.

Findings

Rapid role shifts do not work without extensive mental preparation and commitment. The role changes were perceived as stimulating if there was clarity about purpose, context and the significance of one’s own role, and if there was time both to switch between different roles and to reflect.

Research limitations/implications

This study was only performed in public sector organizations, and with a relatively small sample of interviewees. To generalize the results a more comprehensive collection of data would be required, including independence between researchers and subjects.

Practical implications

Adequate work structures, well-thought-out plans, time set aside for adjustment and reflection, and, not least, well-functioning information technologies are essential to teamwork commitment and satisfaction. As occasional teams, virtual teams and remote work become more common in the future, attention must be paid to rapid work role shifts by governments, policymakers and employers.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first systematic study of the challenges involved in rapid shifts in work roles.
Plasticity in female timing may explain earlier breeding in a North American songbird
Authors: Kimmitt Abigail A. , Becker Daniel J. , Diller Sara N. , Gerlach Nicole M. , Rosvall Kimberly A. , Ketterson Ellen D.
Published: July 2022

Many species have shifted their breeding phenology in response to climate change. Identifying the magnitude of phenological shifts and whether climate‐mediated selection drives these shifts is key for determining species' resilience to climate change. Birds are a strong model for studying phenological shifts due to numerous long‐term research studies; however, generalities pertaining to drivers of phenological shifts will emerge only as we add study species that differ in life history and geography.

We investigated 32 years of reproductive timing in a non‐migratory population of dark‐eyed juncos Junco hyemalis. We predicted that plasticity in reproductive timing would allow females to breed earlier in warmer springs. We also predicted that selection would favour earlier breeding and asked whether the temperatures throughout the breeding season would predict the strength of selection.

To test these predictions, we examined temporal changes in the annual median date for reproductive onset (i.e. first egg date) and we used a sliding window analysis to identify spring temperatures driving these patterns. Next, we explored plasticity in reproductive timing and asked whether selection favoured earlier breeding. Lastly, we used a sliding window analysis to identify the time during the breeding season that temperature was most associated with selection favouring earlier breeding.

First egg dates occurred earlier over time and strongly covaried with April temperatures. Furthermore, individual females that bred in at least 3 years typically bred earlier in warmer Aprils, exhibiting plastic responses to April temperature. We also found significant overall selection favouring earlier breeding (i.e. higher relative fitness with earlier first egg dates) and variation in selection for earlier breeding over time. However, temperature across diverse climatic windows did not predict the strength of selection.

Our findings provide further evidence for the role of phenotypic plasticity in shifting phenology in response to earlier springs. We also provide evidence for the role of selection favouring earlier breeding, regardless of temperature, thus setting the stage for adaptive changes in female breeding phenology. We suggest for multi‐brooded birds that advancing first egg dates likely increase the length of the breeding season, and therefore, reproductive success.
Diagnostic accuracy of C‐reactive protein and procalcitonin in the early diagnosis of infections after laparoscopic rectal cancer surgery
Authors: Yang Wenchang , Yang Lei , Huang Yongzhou , Wang Tao , Sun Xiong , Tong Xin , Liu Weizhen , Yin Yuping , Tao Kaixiong , Zhang Peng
Published: July 2022

Background

We aimed to examine the diagnostic accuracy of postoperative procalcitonin (PCT) and C‐reactive protein (CRP) in the detection of infectious complications in patients after laparoscopic rectal cancer surgery, as opposed to all colorectal surgery.

Methods

Between December 2018 and December 2020, 204 patients who underwent laparoscopic rectal cancer surgery were enrolled retrospectively. The PCT, CRP and white blood cell (WBC) count were measured before surgery and on postoperative days (PODs) 3 and 5. Diagnostic accuracy was determined by the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Net Reclassification Index (NRI) was used to calculate the ability to correct reclassification.

Results

Infectious complications occurred in 36 patients (17.6%), including 17 cases of anastomotic leakage (AL) (8.3%). The AUCs of PCT and CRP in predicting infectious complications on POD 3 were 0.690 and 0.731, respectively, which were better than those on POD 5 (AUC 0.666 and 0.697, respectively). PCT with an optimal cutoff value of 1.10 ng/mL (AUC 0.792, specificity 78.6%, negative predictive value [NPV] 96.6%), CRP with an optimal cutoff value of 109.5 mg/L (AUC 0.760, specificity 78.6%, NPV 96.1%) on POD 3 had superior diagnostic accuracy in predicting AL, both better than WBC (AUC 0.627). The AUC of combining PCT and CRP on POD 3 in predicting AL was 0.851, with a specificity of 79.7% and NPV of 97.4%, and the NRI was estimated to be 7.0%.

Conclusions

Both PCT and CRP on POD 3 are excellent negative predictors for early monitoring of infectious complications, especially AL, in patients undergoing laparoscopic rectal cancer surgery.
Rates of severe complications in patients undergoing colorectal surgery for deep endometriosis—a retrospective multicenter observational study
Authors: Hudelist Gernot , Korell Matthias , Burkhardt Michael , Chvatal Radek , Darici Ezgi , Dimitrova Desislava , Drahonovsky Jan , Haj Hamoud Bashar , Hornung Daniela , Krämer Bernhard , Noe Guenter , Oppelt Peter , Schäfer Sebastian Daniel , Seeber Beata , Ulrich Uwe Andreas , Wenzl Rene , De Wilde Rudy Leon , Wimberger Pauline , Senft Birgit , Keckstein Joerg , Montanari Eliana , Vaineau Cloe , Sillem Martin
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Surgical experience and hospital procedure volumes have been associated with the risk of severe complications in expert centers for endometriosis in France. However, little is known about other certified units in Central European countries.

Material and methods

This retrospective observational study included 937 women who underwent surgery for colorectal endometriosis between January 2018 and January 2020 in 19 participating expert centers for endometriosis. All women underwent complete excision of colorectal endometriosis by rectal shaving, discoid or segmental resection. Postoperative severe complications were defined as grades III–IV of the Clavien–Dindo classification system including anastomotic leakage, fistula, pelvic abscess and hematoma. Surgical outcomes of centers performing less than 40 (group 1), 40–59 (group 2) and ≥60 procedures (group 3) over a period of 2 years were compared.

Results

The overall complication rate of grade III and IV complications was 5.1% (48/937), with rates of anastomotic leakage, fistula formation, abscess and hemorrhage in segmental resection, discoid resection and rectal shaving, respectively, as follows: anastomotic leakage 3.6% (14/387), 1.4% (3/222), 0.6% (2/328); fistula formation 1.6% (6/387), 0.5% (1/222), 0.9%; (3/328); abscess 0.5% (2/387), 0% (0/222) and 0.6% (2/328); hemorrhage 2.1% (8/387), 0.9% (2/222) and 1.5% (5/328). Higher overall complication rates were observed for segmental resection (30/387, 7.8%) than for discoid (6/222, 2.7%, P = 0.015) or shaving procedures (12/328, 3.7%, P = 0.089). No significant correlation was observed between the number of procedures performed and overall complication rates (rSpearman = −0.115; P = 0.639) with a high variability of complications in low‐volume centers (group 1). However, an intergroup comparison revealed a significantly lower overall severe complication rate in group 3 than in group 2 (2.9% vs 6.9%; P = 0.017) without significant differences between other groups.

Conclusions

A high variability in complication rates does exist in centers with a low volume of activity. Major complications may decrease with an increase in the volume of activity but this effect cannot be generally applied to all institutions and settings.
Accuracy of fetal echocardiography diagnosis and anticipated perinatal and early postnatal care in congenital heart disease in mid‐gestation
Authors: Nurmi Max O. , Pitkänen‐Argillander Olli , Räsänen Juha , Sarkola Taisto
Published: July 2022

Introduction

The aim of this study was to determine discrepancies in fetal congenital heart disease (CHD) diagnoses and anticipated early postnatal care and outcomes.

Material and methods

A retrospective review of 462 randomly selected cases (23% of all cases) referred to a fetal cardiac assessment during the second trimester (mean 26 weeks) at the Children's Hospital in Helsinki between October 2010 and December 2020. Discrepancy between prenatal and postnatal CHD case evaluations was assessed with independently provided cardiac severity and surgical complexity scores.

Results

In all, 250 cases, 181 CHD and 69 normal, with complete prenatal and postnatal live birth data as well as seven fetal autopsy reports available were included in the analysis. There were 12 false normal and seven false abnormal prenatal assessments. The prenatally anticipated level of early neonatal care was actualized in 62% and prostaglandin infusion in 95%. In total, 32.7% (84/257) cardiac severity scores were discrepant and in 12,4% (32/257) cases the discrepancies were considered significant (≥ +/− 2 scores). Among significant discrepancies, CHD severity score was overestimated in 13 and underestimated in 19 in fetal assessment. Progression of CHD severity after mid‐gestation and during early neonatal phase explained eight of 19 underestimated fetal assessments. The most common discrepant diagnostic categories included ventricular septal defects (n = 7), borderline ventricles (n = 7; 5 left heart, 1 right heart and 1 double outlet right ventricle/transposition of the great arteries), arch anomalies including coarctations (n = 5) and tricuspid valve dysplasias (n = 4) with a significant change in postnatal diagnoses and treatment.

Conclusions

Although fetal CHD diagnosis and counseling is accurate and reliable in general, the study elaborates specific areas of uncertainty in clinical fetal cardiology practice that may be important to consider in fetal CHD evaluation and counseling provided in mid‐gestation.
Not “My” crisis: Social identity and followers’ crisis responses to COVID‐19
Authors: Lau Vienne W. , Tse Dwight C. K. , Bligh Michelle C. , Hong Ying‐yi , Kakarika Maria , Chan Hoi‐wing , Chiu Connie P. Y.
Published: July 2022

Operationalizing social group identification as political partisanship, we examine followers’ (i.e., US residents’) affective experiences and behavioral responses during the initial COVID‐19 outbreak in the United States (March to May 2020). In Study 1, we conducted content analyses on major news outlets’ coverage of COVID‐19 (N = 4319) to examine media polarization and how it plays a role in shaping followers’ perceptions of the pandemic and leadership. News outlets trusted by Republicans portrayed US President Donald Trump as more effective, conveyed a stronger sense of certainty with less negative affective tone, and had a lower emphasis on COVID‐19 prevention compared to outlets trusted by Democrats. We then conducted a field survey study (Study 2; N = 214) and found that Republicans perceived Trump as more effective, experienced higher positive affect, and engaged in less COVID‐19 preventive behavior compared to Democrats. Using a longitudinal survey design in Study 3 (N = 251), we examined how emotional responses evolved in parallel with the pandemic and found further support for Study 2 findings. Collectively, our findings provide insight into the process of leadership from a social identity perspective during times of crisis, illustrating how social identity can inhibit mobilization of united efforts. The findings have implications for leadership of subgroup divides in different organizational and crisis contexts.
The politics of institutional reform: Vulnerability and bureaucratic independence in Southeast Asian agriculture
Authors: Ricks Jacob I.
Published: July 2022

Although effective bureaucracies are seen as key for service provision in developing states, we still have limited explanations for their emergence. I argue getting these institutions right is a political, rather than technical, challenge based on a set of theoretical predictions for reform outcomes acknowledging the interaction between a state's political vulnerability and degree of bureaucratic independence. I apply these predictions to a controlled comparison of irrigation sector reforms in three Southeast Asian countries. The results demonstrate that the success of institutional reforms necessary to implement policies is contingent on both the degree of vulnerability experienced as well as the extent to which the bureaucracy can influence the policy‐making process. In states with highly independent bureaucracies, reforms falter or are reversed due to bureaucratic resistance. This highlights the impact of politics in shaping second‐generation reforms and suggest that researchers should pay greater attention to the role bureaucracy plays in forging institutions.
The structural conformation of the tachykinin domain drives the anti‐tumoural activity of an octopus peptide in melanoma BRAFV600E
Authors: Moral‐Sanz Javier , Fernandez‐Rojo Manuel A. , Colmenarejo Gonzalo , Kurdyukov Sergey , Brust Andreas , Ragnarsson Lotten , Andersson Åsa , Vila Sabela F. , Cabezas‐Sainz Pablo , Wilhelm Patrick , Vela‐Sebastián Ana , Fernández‐Carrasco Isabel , Chin Yanni K. Y. , López‐Mancheño Yaiza , Smallwood Taylor B. , Clark Richard J. , Fry Bryan G. , King Glenn F. , Ramm Grant A. , Alewood Paul F. , Lewis Richard J. , Mulvenna Jason P. , Boyle Glen M. , Sanchez Laura E. , Neely G. Gregory , Miles John J. , Ikonomopoulou Maria P.
Published: July 2022

Background and Purpose

Over past decades, targeted therapies and immunotherapy have improved survival and reduced the morbidity of patients with BRAF‐mutated melanoma. However, drug resistance and relapse hinder overall success. Therefore, there is an urgent need for novel compounds with therapeutic efficacy against BRAF‐melanoma. This prompted us to investigate the antiproliferative profile of a tachykinin‐peptide from the Octopus kaurna, Octpep‐1 in melanoma.

Experimental Approach

We evaluated the cytotoxicity of Octpep‐1 by MTT assay. Mechanistic insights on viability and cellular damage caused by Octpep‐1 were gained via flow cytometry and bioenergetics. Structural and pharmacological characterization was conducted by molecular modelling, molecular biology, CRISPR/Cas9 technology, high‐throughput mRNA and calcium flux analysis. In vivo efficacy was validated in two independent xerograph animal models (mice and zebrafish).

Key Results

Octpep‐1 selectively reduced the proliferative capacity of human melanoma BRAFV600E‐mutated cells with minimal effects on fibroblasts. In melanoma‐treated cells, Octpep‐1 increased ROS with unaltered mitochondrial membrane potential and promoted non‐mitochondrial and mitochondrial respiration with inefficient ATP coupling. Molecular modelling revealed that the cytotoxicity of Octpep‐1 depends upon the α‐helix and polyproline conformation in the C‐terminal region of the peptide. A truncated form of the C‐terminal end of Octpep‐1 displayed enhanced potency and efficacy against melanoma. Octpep‐1 reduced the progression of tumours in xenograft melanoma mice and zebrafish.

Conclusion and Implications

We unravel the intrinsic anti‐tumoural properties of a tachykinin peptide. This peptide mediates the selective cytotoxicity in BRAF‐mutated melanoma in vitro and prevents tumour progression in vivo, providing a foundation for a therapy against melanoma.
Medium‐term protective effects of quality early childhood education during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Ghana
Authors: Wolf Sharon , Aurino Elisabetta , Suntheimer Noelle M. , Avornyo Esinam A. , Tsinigo Edward , Behrman Jere R. , Aber J. Lawrence
Published: July 2022

The COVID‐19 pandemic led to extended school closures globally. Access to remote learning opportunities during this time was vastly unequal within and across countries. Higher‐quality early childhood education (ECE) can improve later academic outcomes, but longer‐term effects during crises are unknown. This study provides the first experimental evidence of how previously attending a higher‐quality ECE program affected child engagement in remote learning and academic scores during pandemic‐related school closures in Ghana. Children (N = 1668; 50.1% male; Mage = 10.1 years; all Ghanaian nationals) who attended higher‐quality ECE at age 4 or 5 years had greater engagement in remote learning (d = .14) in October 2020, but not better language and literacy and math scores. Previous exposure to higher‐quality ECE may support educational engagement during crises.
Sub‐aortic membrane – A three‐dimensional echocardiographic perspective
Authors: Sharkey Aidan , Ovtchinnikov Nikita , Mahmood Feroze , Bose Ruma
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Subaortic membrane is an uncommon cause of left ventricular outflow tract obstruction.

Discussion

Whereas traditionally described of as a membrane, it is in fact a discreet circumferential shelf of raised endocardium in the left ventricular outflow tract, causing a fixed outflow obstruction. The circumferential nature of subaortic membranes is poorly appreciated on 2‐dimensional imaging.

Conclusion

Using a three‐dimensional imaging and recently available on‐cart rendition techniques of acquired images, we were able to better visualize the true extent of a sub‐aortic membrane while also gaining insight into its origin and structure.
Percutaneous closure of a ruptured right coronary sinus of Valsalva aneurysm that mimics severe aortic regurgitation
Authors: Ramirez‐Rangel P. , Garcia‐Cruz E. , Fritche‐Salazar J.F. , Cornejo‐Guerra J.A. , Torres‐Martel J.M. , Valdes‐Camaño M.A. , Morales‐Guzman A. , Garcia‐Montes J.A.
Published: July 2022

A 34‐year‐old male was admitted with presumed acute, severe aortic regurgitation. Multimodal imaging was performed and showed a ruptured right coronary sinus of Valsalva aneurysm into the right atrium. He underwent a percutaneous closure of the ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysm. The patient had major clinical improvement.
Zero leverage puzzle: Do labour laws matter?
Authors: Boustanifar Hamid , Verriest Arnt
Published: July 2022

Exploiting the staggered passage of labour protection laws in the United States, we find that higher labour adjustment costs increased the likelihood of observing zero leverage firms by 22%. This effect is significantly larger in states with stronger unionization, in industries with higher volatility and concentration, and in firms with higher labour intensity. Both within‐firm changes in debt policies and higher propensity of newer firms to be debt‐free are important in explaining these patterns. Overall, our work contributes to the literature on the relation between financial and labour markets by highlighting the role of labour laws in explaining the zero‐leverage puzzle.
Successful cardiopulmonary cerebral resuscitation incorporating defibrillation in a filly with neonatal maladjustment syndrome following a routine anaesthetic procedure
Authors: Wiechert‐Brown Sarah A. , Di Concetto Stefano , Hepworth‐Warren Kate L. , Madson Stacie M. , Wong David M.
Published: July 2022

A 10‐h‐old 56‐kg Thoroughbred filly was presented for treatment of partial failure of passive transfer of immunity and presumed neonatal maladjustment syndrome (NMS). The filly was hospitalised, and supportive care initiated. On Day 5 of hospitalisation, seizures were observed and were controlled with IV administration of diazepam. Due to progression of clinical signs of NMS, magnetic resonance imaging of the filly's brain was performed. During the early anaesthetic recovery period, the filly exhibited cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA) at which point cardiopulmonary cerebral resuscitation (CPCR) was performed for a total of 48 min. During this time, ventricular fibrillation (VF) was observed on ECG and the filly was defibrillated three times at 1–2‐min intervals using 2–4 J/kg of monophasic electrical defibrillation. The filly successfully recovered from CPCR, was discharged 5 days later and was reported healthy 12 months post‐discharge.
Trajectories of relationship quality and conflict in low‐income parents receiving home visitation services
Authors: Renegar Rebecca G. , Stolz Heidi E. , Baumgardner Megan , Reimnitz Siera J. , McCaig Jessica L.
Published: July 2022

Objective

The purpose of this study was to examine changes in relationship quality and couple conflict in low‐income parents.

Background

When welcoming a new child, couples often report increased conflict and a decline in relationship quality. However, some scholars maintain couples can transition to parenthood with few negative effects. Low‐income, unmarried, and experienced parents remain understudied.

Method

Utilizing data from a broader parent education project, the study employed dyadic latent growth curve analysis to examine changes over time in relationship quality and conflict. Participants were 216 low‐income couples receiving home visitation services who reported on relationship quality and conflict at three time points. Differences between first‐time and multiparous parents and among married, cohabiting, and non‐residential opposite‐sex couples were examined.

Results

Trajectories of relationship quality and conflict were stable over time. Compared to married and cohabiting couples, non‐residential couples reported lower initial relationship quality. When comparing cohabiting and non‐residential couples, couples with higher expectations of marriage had higher initial relationship quality and lower initial conflict.

Conclusion

Some couples navigate the transition to parenthood without negative relationship effects, especially those with higher initial quality, lower initial conflict, and greater expectations of marriage. Implications Policy and practice supporting relationship stability in low‐income couples should incorporate a strengths‐based approach.
Global human mobility and knowledge transfer: Highly skilled return migrants as agents of transnational learning
Authors: Lam Alice , Rui Huaichuan
Published: July 2022

Global human mobility constitutes a key mechanism for knowledge transfer. This study examines the micro‐dynamics of knowledge transfer in the developed‐developing country migratory context. It highlights the agentic role of return migrants in transforming overseas learning into relevant knowledge in their home contexts. Drawing on situated and relational theories of knowledge and learning, the study views knowledge transfer as a relevance discovery process. It looks at a group of highly skilled migrants who had returned from developed countries to Ethiopia. Despite their high skill, the focus of knowledge transfer was mostly in non‐technical fields that include a broad range of organizational knowledge and work practices. These were made relevant to the local context through the returnees’ ‘work of reconciliation’, involving ‘engagement’, ‘alignment’ and ‘imagination’. The study challenges the standard assumption of a one‐way linear flow of knowledge from developed to developing countries. It sheds new light on the migration‐development link by highlighting the ‘aspirational’ aspect of migrant transnational learning.