bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards enhancing creativity in university settings: does hope of academic knowledge workers matter?
Authors: Namono Rehema , Kemboi Ambrose Kiplimo , Chepkwony Joel
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Although a burgeoning body of literature has established the influence of hope and employee creativity, the debate on the relative importance of hope and its components of pathway and agency on its outcomes has not been clarified. Literature has it that hope and its individual components of pathway and agency have a varying magnitude of influence on its outcomes. Some scholars argue that agency and pathway components better predict its outcomes than overall hope. The current study establishes the relative importance of hope and its components on creativity using evidence from Makerere University, Uganda.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted a cross-sectional quantitative survey design to collect data from the academic staff of Makerere University. The study used usefulness analysis to establish the relative importance of the predictor variables on the dependent variable.

Findings

The study findings revealed that agency and hope components of hope significantly predicted creativity. Overall, hope also significantly predicted creativity. Regarding relative importance, hope turned out to be the most “useful” predictor of creativity, followed by its components of agency and pathway.

Research limitations/implications

The study was conducted in a public university setting located in urban areas. The findings may not be generalizable to private settings due to variations in the teacher's creative behaviour with variation in the creative environment. The study was also cross-sectional, which may not yield results of changing employee creativity over time. Further studies should establish the link between hope and creativity using a longitudinal survey to compare employee creativity using data collected at different intervals.

Originality/value

The value of the current study is both theoretical and empirical. Theoretically, the study findings enrich the hope theory by revealing the relative importance of hope on its outcomes over and above its components. The study also confirms the assertions of the dual pathway to creativity model by revealing that employees who are rich in hope components of agency and pathway have the cognitive flexibility to pursue creative goals and, when faced with failure, can generate alternative solutions to solve work problems.
Household acceptance of central bank digital currency: the role of institutional trust
Authors: Solberg Söilen Klaus , Benhayoun Lamiae
Published: October 2021

Purpose

The authors investigate household acceptance of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) by drawing on the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology and institutional trust theory.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors build a research model including six hypotheses and quantitatively analyze it using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and importance–performance map analysis (IPMA) based on 282 answers to a survey questionnaire.

Findings

The continuous adoption of CBDCs by households is highly probable and is fostered by its expected high performance, the social recommendations and the existence of facilitating conditions. Nevertheless, institutions' efforts to propose a flexible and understandable currency can benefit its adoption only if these institutions also strive to build households' trust in the currency's system.

Originality/value

The authors provide a full review of the emerging literature on CBDCs and suggest that digital currency offerings can be divided into centralized, semi-centralized and de-centralized control in a meaningful taxonomy. The authors also complement extant studies on CBDCs that mostly apprehend its operational challenges by focusing on the customer side and provide implications to the launching of CBDCs by uncovering the customer-specific determinants of their adoption.
Experimental study on the relationship between the friction coefficient and interference in locomotive axle press-fitting
Authors: Wang Ting , Guo Hanfei , Qiao Jianjun , Liu Xiaoxue , Fan Zhixin
Published: October 2021

Purpose

To address the lack of data in this field and determine the relationship between the coefficient of friction and the interference between locomotive wheels and axles, this study evaluates the theoretical relationship between the coefficient of friction and the interference under elastic deformation.

Design/methodology/approach

When using numerical analyses to study the mechanical state of the contacting components of the wheels and axle, the interference between the axle parts and the coefficient of friction between the axle parts are two important influencing factors. Currently, as the range of the coefficient of friction between the wheel and axle in interference remains unknown, it is generally considered that the coefficient of friction is only related to the materials of the friction pair; the relationship between the interference and the coefficient of friction is often neglected.

Findings

A total of 520 press-fitting experiments were conducted for 130 sets of wheels and axles of the HXD2 locomotive with 4 types of interferences, in order to obtain the relationship between the coefficient of friction between the locomotive wheel and axle and the amount of interference. These results are expected to serve as a reference for selecting the coefficient of friction when designing axle structures with the rolling stock, research on the press-fitting process and evaluations of the fatigue life.

Originality/value

The study provides a basis for the selection of friction coefficient and interference amount in the design of locomotive wheels and axles.
The digital age is transforming job descriptions, especially for CEOs
Authors: Denning Stephen
Published: October 2021

Purpose

To implement a customer-centric vision in the digital era requires leadership that champions principles, processes and practices that promote customer value and corporate agility.

Design/methodology/approach

In the digital age organization the CEO’s job description, and those of all the leadership team, will require radical redesign.

Findings

A successful digital-age CEO is an entrepreneur with a passion for creating new value for customers and a preoccupation with strategic agility and discerning new business opportunities.

Practical/implications

Perhaps the most critical feature of digital-era CEOs’ jobs is their focus on the continuous creation of new businesses.

Originality/value

A successful digital-age CEO is an entrepreneur with a passion for creating new value for customers and a preoccupation with strategic agility and discerning new business opportunities.
Transcription factor EB enhances autophagy and ameliorates palmitate‐induced insulin resistance at least partly via upregulating AMPK activity in skeletal muscle cells
Authors: Wang Ping , Li Chun Guang , Zhou Xian , Ding Shuzhe
Published: October 2021

This study aimed to elucidate the role of transcription factor EB (TFEB) in protecting C2C12 myotubes against palmitate (PA)‐induced insulin resistance (IR) and explored its mechanism associated with autophagy. PA treatment significantly decreased insulin sensitivity in myotubes and downregulated TFEB protein expression. TFEB overexpression significantly reversed the PA‐suppressed glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) protein expression and improved intracellular glucose uptake and consumption, and also alleviated the decrease of autophagy markers induced by PA. The effect of TFEB overexpression on GLUT4 was also abolished by the autophagy inhibitor 3‐MA. In addition, AMPKɑ2‐DN inhibited or abolished the effects of TFEB overexpression on upregulation of GLUT4 and PA‐induced decrease of autophagy marker expressions. Taken together, our data demonstrated that upregulation of TFEB improved PA‐induced IR in C2C12 myotubes by enhancing autophagy and upregulating AMPK activity. TFEB, as a critical regulator of glucose homeostasis in skeletal muscle cells, may be a potential therapeutic target for IR and Type 2 diabetes.
Does Advertising Productivity Affect Organizational Performance? Impact of Market Conditions
Authors: Rahman Mahabubur , Rodríguez‐Serrano M. Ángeles , Hughes Mathew
Published: October 2021

Advertising is crucial in influencing customers’ perceptions and purchase intentions, and numerous studies have investigated whether advertising expenditure has any significant impact on financial performance. A thorough understanding remains elusive: while several studies document a positive impact, others report that advertising has either a negative or a statistically insignificant effect. Three flaws among existing studies are responsible for this problem: bundling advertising with other forms of marketing, the inadequacy of expenditure as a measure and a failure to consider contingencies. Deviating from earlier studies, we examine the effect of advertising productivity on firm performance rather than the impact of the absolute amount of advertising expenditure. Moreover, adopting a contingency approach, we evaluate how market conditions of market dynamism, market complexity and market munificence moderate the relationship between advertising productivity and organizational performance. Drawing a multi‐industry sample from the USA, this study demonstrates that advertising productivity has a positive impact on capital market‐based performance measures, conditional on market conditions. We reveal new insights into when, why and to what extent advertising contributes (or not) to organizations’ financial performance.
Effectuation Logic and Early Innovation Success: The Moderating Effect of Customer Co‐creation
Authors: Ko Guihan , Roberts Deborah. L. , Perks Helen , Candi Marina
Published: October 2021

This research examines whether and how customer co‐creation activities moderate the relationship between effectuation logic and performance in the early stage of the innovation process. Effectuation logic is a promising decision‐making logic for innovation success, but the tools that help translate this approach into innovation performance are under‐researched. Three key dimensions of effectuation logic are examined: means‐driven, partnerships and control. The results of a large‐scale survey‐based study indicate a varied and nuanced role of co‐creation as a means to enhance the contribution of effectuation logic to early innovation success. This research helps increase our understanding of the often abstract principles of effectuation logic by examining its manifestation within the context of innovation and by showing how specific firm practices, here customer co‐creation activities, can accentuate the contribution of effectuation logic to early innovation performance.
Unusual soot pattern from suicidal handgun wound
Authors: Cohle Stephen D. , Crump Jeff
Published: October 2021

Soot is deposited from 20–30 cm from the muzzle of most handguns and arranged concentrically around the entry wound. We examined a case of a self‐inflicted gunshot wound from a 9‐mm pistol that left an unusual pattern of soot deposition consisting of two circular 3‐mm deposits of soot located 2 cm from the entry wound. Examination of the weapon and test‐firing it against a cloth reproduced the soot deposits, which were caused by two ports on the top of the barrel. Examination of the weapon and comparing the barrel with the entry wound and surrounding skin may provide important information about the type of weapon, the muzzle‐to‐target distance, and atypical soot deposits.
Optimization of artificial feeding system for mass rearing of the Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus
Authors: Hwang Seoyul , Kim Donghun
Published: October 2021

The efficient mass‐rearing systems of Aedes mosquitoes is a critical step for physiological study and for the development of novel control methods. Various species of mosquito had been widely maintained by an artificial feeding system, which needs to be optimized for mass rearing in the laboratory. For optimization of Aedes albopictus mass rearing, the effect of differences in blood meal and time‐of‐day for blood feeding on mosquito fitness was examined by comparing blood feeding rate, the number of eggs laid, egg hatching rate, and the period of time for development. Heparin or EDTA‐treated whole blood (horse, swine, and bovine) and defibrinated blood (horse and sheep) were provided to the Asian tiger mosquito at either 8:00 or 18:00. Heparinized ATP swine blood‐fed females laid significantly larger number of eggs than those of horse/bovine blood‐fed females at 18:00. While heparinized ATP‐free bovine blood‐fed females laid the largest number of eggs, although it was not significantly different in morning feeders. The hatching rate was not significantly different among progeny. Offspring from females fed blood meal at 18:00 showed a significantly shorter period of time for development when compared to those of females fed blood meal at 08:00. Interestingly, the rate of blood feeding was not significantly different between ATP‐free animal blood and ATP animal blood. Taken together, we suggest that mass rearing of A. albopictus should consider time‐of‐day for feeding and selection of animal blood.
Antimicrobial resistance: progress and challenges in antibiotic discovery and anti‐infective therapy
Authors: Krell Tino , Matilla Miguel A.
Published: October 2021

The alarming rise in the emergence of antimicrobial resistance in human, animal and plant pathogens is challenging global health and food production. Traditional strategies used for antibiotic discovery persistently result in the re‐isolation of known compounds, calling for the need to develop more rational strategies to identify new antibiotics. Additionally, anti‐infective therapy approaches targeting bacterial signalling pathways related to virulence is emerging as an alternative to the use of antibiotics. In this perspective article, we critically analyse approaches aimed at revitalizing the identification of new antibiotics and to advance antivirulence therapies. The development of high‐throughput in vivo, in vitro and in silico platforms, together with the progress in chemical synthesis, analytical chemistry and structural biology, are reviving a research area that is of tremendous relevance for global health.
Impacts of NaOCl and Irritrol irrigation solutions with/without autoclave sterilisation on the cyclic fatigue resistance of different nickel‐titanium files
Authors: Kermeoglu Fatma , Abduljalil Mohamad
Published: October 2021

This research aimed to examine the impact of NaOCl and Irritrol solutions with/without autoclave sterilisation on the cyclic fatigue resistance of ProTaper, WaveOne Gold and Reciproc NiTi files. Seventy files in every group were separated into seven subgroups (n = 10) according to irrigation solutions and sterilisation procedures. The mean and standard deviations of the time to fracture was calculated for each group, and the data statistical analysis was performed (P ≤ 0.05). Significantly higher cyclic fatigue resistance was found in Reciproc files than the other types of files. The differences between the control and other subgroups were found to be statistically insignificant (P > 0.05), except for subgroups 5 and 7 (P ≤ 0.05). Immersing NiTi files in NaOCl or Irritrol with sterilisation for three times considerably reduced the cyclic fatigue resistance of these files. Reciproc files exhibited the highest cyclic fatigue resistance in comparison with ProTaper and WaveOne Gold files.
Barriers to uptaking HIV testing among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in low‐ and middle‐income countries: A systematic review of qualitative findings
Authors: Razzaq Amina , Raynes‐Greenow Camille , Alam Ashraful
Published: October 2021

Background

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing is a gateway to HIV treatment, care and preventive services for pregnant women attending antenatal clinics. Despite this, uptake of HIV testing is not optimal among pregnant women in many low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) and it could negatively impact the effectiveness of prevention of mother‐to‐child transmission of HIV programs.

Aim

To understand the factors that hinder the uptake of HIV testing among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in LMICs.

Materials and methods

A systematic search of the CINAHL, EMBASE, JSTOR, Medline, PubMed and Web of Science electronic databases was performed. We limited the search to peer‐reviewed qualitative studies including mixed method studies. The titles and abstracts of the retrieved publications were screened for relevance then information was extracted.

Results

Our search yielded 2179 citations, out of which 312 full‐text articles were reviewed and 22 studies that met the eligibility criteria were included in this review. We found that a lack of HIV testing kits, poor health infrastructure and shortage of healthcare workers were the main health system‐related factors. Poor HIV knowledge, fear of HIV test results, HIV‐related stigma and social exclusion negatively influenced pregnant women’s decision to be tested for HIV.

Conclusion

This review has identified that pregnant women faced a wide range of health system, individual, social and lack of women’s empowerment related challenges that negatively influenced the uptake of HIV testing among pregnant women in LMICs. Our findings would be useful in developing strategies to overcome barriers that could enhance the uptake of HIV testing among pregnant women.
Sociocultural and ecological perspectives on achievement motivation
Authors: King Ronnel B.
Published: October 2021

Research on achievement motivation has mostly focused on the importance of the proximal context. As a result, the roles of more distal sociocultural and ecological factors have been neglected. However, motivation does not occur within a social vacuum; it is embedded within pervasive environments, including the broader culture (values, beliefs, and norms) and social ecology (economic and political systems, interpersonal environments, and physical environment). This article argues for the critical need to include sociocultural and ecological perspectives in motivation research. More specifically, the aims are to (a) justify why cultural and ecological perspectives are needed, (b) present a tentative conceptual framework that could account for the critical roles of sociocultural and ecological factors that underpin motivation and learning, and (c) proffer recommendations on how to study culture and ecology within the field of achievement motivation research.
Antenatal steroids and neurodevelopment in 12‐year‐old children born extremely preterm
Authors: Kochukhova Olga , Fredriksson Kaul Ylva , Johansson Martin , Montgomery Cecilia , Holmström Gerd , Strand Brodd Katarina , Hellström‐Westas Lena
Published: October 2021

Aim

To investigate neurodevelopmental outcome in 12‐year‐old children born very preterm in relation to perinatal, neonatal and socioeconomic variables. To examine whether previously described positive effects of antenatal steroids on cognition persist at 12 years.

Methods

Prospective cohort, 78 children with gestational ages 22.7–31.9 weeks, born in 2004–2007 and examined at 12 years of age with cognitive, motor and visual motor integration tasks and compared to an age‐matched control group (n = 50). Two preterm subgroups were studied: very preterm children (28–31 gestational weeks, n = 53) and extremely preterm children (22–27 gestational weeks, n = 25).

Results

The preterm children had significantly lower scores on all cognitive, motor and visual motor integration tasks than the controls. Gestational age and maternal education influenced associations differently in the two preterm subgroups. Also, severe retinopathy of prematurity demonstrated strong associations to outcome. In the extremely preterm group, administration of antenatal steroids was associated with better cognition, basic attention, word generation and motor skills.

Conclusion

At 12 years of age, very preterm children born in the 2000s still have deficits across several neurodevelopmental domains compared to term‐born peers. Administration of antenatal steroids has long‐lasting associations to cognition and motor skills in extremely preterm‐born children.
UK national bladder outlet obstruction surgery snapshot audit
Authors: Aning Jonathan J. , Calvert Robert C. , Harding Chris , Fowler Sarah , Nitkunan Tharani , Lee Su‐Min , McGrath John S. , Cresswell Joanne , Hagan Patricia , Hermans Louisa , Dickinson Andrew J.
Published: October 2021

Objectives

To determine the preoperative assessment and perioperative outcomes of men undergoing bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) surgery in the UK.

Patients and Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted of all men undergoing BOO surgery in 105 UK hospitals over a 1‐month period. The study included 1456 men, of whom 42% were catheter dependent prior to undergoing surgery.

Results

There was no evidence that a frequency–volume chart or urinary symptom questionnaire had been completed in 73% or 50% of men, respectively in the non‐catheter‐dependent group. Bipolar transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) was the most common BOO surgical procedure performed (38%). Monopolar TURP was the next most prevalent modality (23%); however, minimally invasive BOO surgical procedures combined accounted for 17% of all procedures performed. Of the cohort 5% of men had complications within 30 days of surgery, only 1% had Clavien–Dindo Grade ≥III complications. Less than 1% of the cohort received a blood transfusion after BOO surgery and 2% were re‐admitted to hospital after their BOO surgery. In total only 4% of the whole cohort were catheter dependent after BOO surgery. Pre‐ and postoperative paired International Prostate Symptom Score scores reviewed suggest that minimally invasive surgical procedures achieved comparable levels of improvement in both symptoms and bother at 3 months postoperatively in men who were not catheter dependent preoperatively.

Conclusions

There has been a substantial shift in the available choice of procedure for BOO surgery around the UK in recent years. However, men can be reassured that overall BOO surgery treatments are safe and effective. Evidence of adherence to guidelines in the preoperative assessment of men with lower urinary tract symptoms undergoing surgery was poorly documented and must be improved.
Type 2 immunity‐driven diseases: Towards a multidisciplinary approach
Authors: Hassoun Dorian , Malard Olivier , Barbarot Sébastien , Magnan Antoine , Colas Luc
Published: October 2021

Asthma, atopic dermatitis and chronic rhinoconjunctivitis are highly heterogeneous. However, epidemiologic associations exist between phenotypic groups of patients. Atopic march is one such association but is not the only common point. Indeed, beyond such phenotypes, hallmarks of type 2 immunity have been found in these diseases involving immune dysregulation as well as environmental triggers and epithelial dysfunction. From the canonical Th2 cytokines (IL‐4, IL‐5, IL‐13), new cellular and molecular actors arise, from the epithelium's alarmins to new innate immune cells. Their interactions are now better understood across the different environmental barriers, and slight differences appeared. In parallel, the development of type 2‐targeting biotherapies not only raised hope to treat those diseases but also raised new questions regarding their true pathophysiological involvement. Here, we review the place of type 2 immunity in the different phenotypes of asthma, chronic rhinitis, chronic rhinosinusitis and atopic dermatitis, highlighting nuances between them. New hypotheses rising from the use of biotherapies will be discussed along with the uncertainties and unmet needs of this field.
Prenatal exome sequencing: A useful tool for the fetal neurologist
Authors: de Koning Maayke A. , Hoffer Mariëtte J. V. , Nibbeling Esther A. R. , Bijlsma Emilia K. , Toirkens Menno J. P. , Adama‐Scheltema Phebe N. , Verweij E. Joanne , Veenhof Marieke B. , Santen Gijs W. E. , Peeters‐Scholte Cacha M. P. C. D.
Published: October 2021

Prenatal exome sequencing (pES) is a promising tool for diagnosing genetic disorders when structural anomalies are detected on prenatal ultrasound. The aim of this study was to investigate the diagnostic yield and clinical impact of pES as an additional modality for fetal neurologists who counsel parents in case of congenital anomalies of the central nervous system (CNS). We assessed 20 pregnancies of 19 couples who were consecutively referred to the fetal neurologist for CNS anomalies. pES had a diagnostic yield of 53% (10/19) with most diagnosed pregnancies having agenesis or hypoplasia of the corpus callosum (7/10). Overall clinical impact was 63% (12/19), of which the pES result aided parental decision making in 55% of cases (6/11), guided perinatal management in 75% of cases (3/4), and was helpful in approving a late termination of pregnancy request in 75% of cases (3/4). Our data suggest that pES had a high diagnostic yield when CNS anomalies are present, although this study is limited by its small sample size. Moreover, pES had substantial clinical impact, which warrants implementation of pES in the routine care of the fetal neurologist in close collaboration with gynecologists and clinical geneticists.
The association between preoperative body composition and aerobic fitness in patients scheduled for colorectal surgery
Authors: Berkel Annefleur E. M. , van Wijk Laura , van Dijk David P. J. , Prins Sanne N. , van der Palen Job , van Meeteren Nico L. U. , Olde Damink Steven W. M. , Klaase Joost M. , Bongers Bart C.
Published: October 2021

Aim

Although cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) is considered the gold standard, a preoperative abdominal CT scan might also provide information concerning preoperative aerobic fitness for risk assessment. This study aimed to investigate the association between preoperative CT‐scan‐derived body composition variables and preoperative CPET variables of aerobic fitness in colorectal surgery.

Method

In this retrospective cohort study, CT images at level L3 were analysed for skeletal muscle mass, skeletal muscle radiation attenuation, visceral adipose tissue (VAT) mass and subcutaneous adipose tissue mass. Regression analyses were performed to investigate the relation between CT‐scan‐derived body composition variables, CPET‐derived aerobic fitness and other preoperative patient‐related variables. Logistic regression analysis was performed to predict a preoperative anaerobic threshold (AT) ≤ 11.1 ml/kg/min as cut‐off for having a high risk for postoperative complications.

Results

Data from 78 patients (45 men; mean [SD] age 74.5 [6.4 years]) were analysed. A correlation coefficient of 0.55 was observed between absolute AT and skeletal muscle mass index. Absolute AT (R2 of 51.1%) was lower in patients with a lower skeletal muscle mass index, together with higher age, lower body mass and higher American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score. Higher ASA score (odds ratio 5.64; P = 0.033) and higher VAT mass (odds ratio 1.02; P = 0.036) were associated with an increased risk of an AT ≤ 11.1 ml/kg/min.

Conclusion

Body composition variables from the preoperative CT scan were moderately associated with preoperative CPET‐derived aerobic fitness. Higher ASA score and higher VAT mass were associated with an increased risk of an AT ≤ 11.1 ml/kg/min.
The role of faecal calprotectin in the identification of colorectal neoplasia in patients attending for screening colonoscopy
Authors: Ross Fiona A. , Park James H. , Mansouri David , Little Cariss , Di Rollo Domenic G. , Combet Emilie , Van Wyk Hester , Horgan Paul G. , McMillan Donald C. , Roxburgh Campbell S. D.
Published: October 2021

Aim

Although the relationship between colorectal neoplasia and inflammation is well described, the role of faecal calprotectin (FC) in clinical practice to diagnose or screen patients for colorectal neoplasia is less defined. This prospective study characterizes the relationship between FC and colorectal neoplasia in patients within the faecal occult blood testing (FOBT) positive patients in the Scottish Bowel Screening Programme.

Methods

All FOBT positive patients attending for colonoscopy between February 2016 and July 2017 were invited to participate. Patients provided a stool sample for FC before commencing bowel preparation. All demographics and endoscopic findings were collected prospectively.

Results

In all, 352 patients were included. 210 patients had FC > 50 µg. Colorectal cancer (CRC) patients had a higher median FC (138.5 μg/g, P < 0.05), in comparison to those without CRC, and 13/14 had an FC > 50 µg/g (93%). FC had a high sensitivity (92.8%) and negative predictive value (99.3%) for CRC, but with a low specificity (41.7%) and positive predictive value (6.2%). FC sensitivity increased sequentially as neoplasms progressed from non‐advanced to malignant neoplasia (48.6% non‐advanced adenoma vs. 92.9% CRC). However, no significant relationship was observed between FC and non‐cancer neoplasia.

Conclusion

In an FOBT positive screening population, FC was strongly associated with CRC (sensitivity 92.8%, specificity 41.7% for CRC, at 50 µg/g). However, although sensitive for the detection of CRC, FC failed to show sufficient sensitivity or specificity for the detection of non‐cancer neoplasia. Based on these results we cannot recommend routine use of FC in a bowel screening population to detect cancer per se, but it is apparent that, with further optimization, faecal assessments including quantification of haemoglobin and inflammation could form part of a risk assessment tool aimed at refining the selection of patients for colonoscopy in both symptomatic and screening populations.
Japan's productivity stagnation: Using dynamic Hsieh–Klenow decomposition
Authors: Hosono Kaoru , Takizawa Miho
Published: October 2021

This study provides a new perspective on Japan's stagnant aggregate productivity by extending the Hsieh and Klenow (2009) framework to account for productivity growth, entry and exit, and product variety change. We measure the technical efficiency (TE) and allocative efficiency (AE) by the aggregate production possibility frontier and the distance from the frontier, respectively. We apply our approach to establishment‐ and firm‐level data sets from Japan and find that the AE among survivors declined during the banking crisis period, while the TE declined during the global financial crisis period.
Local industrial policy and productivity: Evidence from China
Authors: Chen Jingjing , Feng Han , Zhou Hong
Published: October 2021

Subnational governments played key roles in China's past rapid growth, and local industrial policy was among their most frequently used tools. Using a plausible comprehensive local industrial policies variable constructed using local Five‐Year Plans and a comprehensive dataset of all medium and large firms in China between 1998 and 2013, this paper attempts to understand whether such interventions are helpful for China's growth. Our results indicate that although local industrial policies attract more low productivity firms, they do achieve their purpose of improving the productivity of the targeted sectors, at firm and city levels, especially in the long run.
Clinical characteristics of patients with chronic eosinophilic pneumonia in a Chinese tertiary‐care hospital: A 6‐year retrospective study
Authors: Xu Yang , Wang Zhanbo , Li Wenchao , Zhu Qiang , Liang Zhixin
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Chronic eosinophilic pneumonia (CEP) is a rare disease with unknown etiology. Due to lack of specificity of CEP symptoms, clinicians are not experienced in establishing its diagnosis.

Objectives

To summarize the clinical data of CEP patients to improve the understanding of CEP and reduce misdiagnosis.

Methods

Data of patients pathologically diagnosed with CEP in the PLA General Hospital between May 2013 and May 2019 were collected, and clinical manifestations, imaging characteristics, pathological features, and treatment were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

Twenty patients, including 6 males and 14 females, were diagnosed with CEP. The average age was 47.0 ± 10.2 years. The main clinical manifestations were cough and dyspnea. The average duration of CEP was 15.5 ± 11.5 months. The average proportion of eosinophils in the peripheral blood was 18.9 ± 17.8%, and the average proportion of eosinophils in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid was 41.5 ± 19.4%. The main imaging features were patchy shadows and consolidation shadows. The most common manifestations on bronchoscopic examination were congestion and edema of the bronchial mucosa. Two patients had granular protrusions of the endotracheal membrane. Histological examination indicated infiltration of numerous eosinophils. All patients improved after prednisone therapy.

Conclusion

CEP onset is insidious, and clinical manifestations lack specificity. Typical imaging features are peripheral and subpleural distribution of lung infiltrates. Some patients have a normal proportion of eosinophils in the peripheral blood, but most have an increased number of eosinophils in the BALF, which contributes to CEP diagnosis. A biopsy is necessary when differential diagnosis is difficult. A systemic glucocorticoid is effective.
The effects of financial crisis on income inequality
Authors: Nguyen Thanh Cong
Published: October 2021

Motivation

Do financial crises affect everyone equally? Despite the growing concern about income inequality recently, mixed empirical findings have resulted in a long‐standing debate about the distribution of income in the aftermath of financial crises.

Purpose

The study examines how different types of financial crises affect the distribution of income.

Methods and approach

In this study we used a two‐step system Generalized method of moments (GMM) model to explore the effects of financial crisis on income inequality.

Findings

Any type of financial crisis results in a larger income gap between the rich and the poor. Although little attention has been given to debt and twin and triple crises, they are associated with higher income inequality than banking and currency crises. We also show that the effects of banking crises on income inequality in low‐income, lower‐middle income and upper‐middle income countries (LICs, LMICs and UMICs respectively) are more pronounced than in high‐income countries (HICs).

Policy implications

Long‐ and medium‐term plans for social assistance programmes in LICS, LMICs and UMICs are needed and should be flexible so that social safety nets can be rapidly adjusted to protect vulnerable groups. Maintaining a high level of fiscal balance during tranquil periods is critical to implementing welfare state expansion policies in times of crisis. Top marginal income and estate taxes should be raised to avoid very high concentrations of income in the aftermath of financial crises. The minimum wage should also be raised to protect low‐income workers.
A plant–pollinator metanetwork along a habitat fragmentation gradient
Authors: Librán‐Embid Felipe , Grass Ingo , Emer Carine , Ganuza Cristina , Tscharntke Teja
Published: October 2021

To understand how plant–pollinator interactions respond to habitat fragmentation, we need novel approaches that can capture properties that emerge at broad scales, where multiple communities engage in metanetworks. Here we studied plant–pollinator interactions over 2 years on 29 calcareous grassland fragments selected along independent gradients of habitat size and surrounding landscape diversity of cover types. We associated network centrality of plant–pollinator interactions and grassland fragments with their ecological and landscape traits, respectively. Interactions involving habitat specialist plants and large‐bodied pollinators were the most central, implying that species with these traits form the metanetwork core. Large fragments embedded in landscapes with high land cover diversity exhibited the highest centrality; however, small fragments harboured many unique interactions not found on larger fragments. Intensively managed landscapes have reached a point in which all remaining fragments matter, meaning that losing any further areas may vanish unique interactions with unknown consequences for ecosystem functioning.
The role of contemporary digital tools and technologies in COVID‐19 crisis: An exploratory analysis
Authors: Subramanian Malliga , Shanmuga Vadivel Kogilavani , Hatamleh Wesam Atef , Alnuaim Abeer Ali , Abdelhady Mohamed , V E Sathishkumar
Published: October 2021

Following the COVID‐19 pandemic, there has been an increase in interest in using digital resources to contain pandemics. To avoid, detect, monitor, regulate, track, and manage diseases, predict outbreaks and conduct data analysis and decision‐making processes, a variety of digital technologies are used, ranging from artificial intelligence (AI)‐powered machine learning (ML) or deep learning (DL) focused applications to blockchain technology and big data analytics enabled by cloud computing and the internet of things (IoT). In this paper, we look at how emerging technologies such as the IoT and sensors, AI, ML, DL, blockchain, augmented reality, virtual reality, cloud computing, big data, robots and drones, intelligent mobile apps, and 5G are advancing health care and paving the way to combat the COVID‐19 pandemic. The aim of this research is to look at possible technologies, processes, and tools for addressing COVID‐19 issues such as pre‐screening, early detection, monitoring infected/quarantined individuals, forecasting future infection rates, and more. We also look at the research possibilities that have arisen as a result of the use of emerging technology to handle the COVID‐19 crisis.
COVID‐19 pandemic stresses and relationships in college students
Authors: Gallegos Martin I. , Zaring‐Hinkle Brittany , Bray James H.
Published: October 2021

Objective

The goal of this study was to understand how intergenerational intimacy and individuation associate with COVID‐19 pandemic‐related stresses and changes to relationship qualities, and consequentially, with substance use indicators, happiness, and life satisfaction.

Background

Intergenerational family systems theory suggests that dysfunctional relationship patterns in one's family of origin contribute to greater stress, and consequentially, to poorer health outcomes. We examined how these patterns emerge for young adults during a pandemic.

Method

A sample (N = 501) of young adults at a large university in Texas completed an online questionnaire about health and happiness.

Results

More intergenerational intimacy was associated with more positive COVID‐19 pandemic‐related changes in relationship quality with family and friends, and with more happiness and life satisfaction. More intergenerational individuation was associated with less COVID‐19 pandemic‐related stress, fewer coping motives for alcohol use, and with more happiness and life satisfaction. Less COVID‐19 pandemic‐related stress and more positive COVID‐19 pandemic‐related changes in relationship qualities with family and friends were associated with more positive outcomes.

Conclusion

More positive intergenerational relationships are associated with more positive outcomes in regards to COVID‐19 pandemic‐related stress and relationship changes.

Implications

Promoting positive intergenerational relational qualities between young adults and their parents can buffer against pandemic‐related consequences in health and happiness. Family health practitioners should promote these intergenerational qualities in families, which in turn should increase positive psychosocial and health outcomes in the context of a pandemic.
Sonic Hedgehog signalling in the regulation of barrier tissue homeostasis and inflammation
Authors: Lau Ching‐In , Yánez Diana C. , Papaioannou Eleftheria , Ross Susan , Crompton Tessa
Published: October 2021

Epithelial barrier tissues such as the skin and airway form an essential interface between the mammalian host and its external environment. These physical barriers are crucial to prevent damage and disease from environmental insults and allergens. Failure to maintain barrier function against such risks can lead to severe inflammatory disorders, including atopic dermatitis and asthma. Here, we discuss the role of the morphogen Sonic Hedgehog in postnatal skin and lung and the impact of Shh signalling on repair, inflammation, and atopic disease in these tissues.
A simple optical tissue clearing pipeline for 3D vasculature imaging of the mediastinal organs in mice
Authors: Sun Quanchao , Tiziana Picascia , Khan Arif ul Maula , Heuveline Vincent , Gretz Norbert
Published: October 2021

Optical tissue clearing (OTC) methods render tissue transparent by matching the refractive index within a sample to enable three‐dimensional (3D) imaging with advanced microscopes. The application of OTC method in mediastinal organs in mice remains poorly understand. Our aim was to establish a simple protocol pipeline for 3D imaging of the mediastinal organs in mice. Trachea, oesophagus, thymus and heart were harvested from mice after retrograde perfusion via the abdominal aorta. We combined and optimized antibody labelling of thick tissue samples, OTC with cheap and non‐toxic solvent ethyl cinnamate (ECi), and light‐sheet fluorescence microscopy (LSFM) or laser confocal fluorescence microscopy (LCFM) to visualize the vasculature of those tissues. A high degree of optical transparency of trachea, oesophagus, thymus and heart was achieved after ECi‐based OTC. With anti‐CD31 antibody immunofluorescence labelling before ECi‐based OTC, the vasculature of these tissues with their natural morphology, location and organizational network was imaged using LSFM or LCFM. This simple protocol pipeline provides an easy‐to‐setup and comprehensive way to study the vasculature of mediastinal organs in 3D without any special equipment. We anticipate that it will facilitate diverse applications in biomedical research of thoracic diseases and even other organs.
Gender differences in financial knowledge overconfidence among older adults
Authors: Kim Kyoung Tae , Lee Sunwoo , Kim Hohyun
Published: October 2021

This study explores gender differences in financial knowledge overconfidence among older adults using the 2016 Health and Retirement Study. We find that older females have relatively lower objective financial knowledge than do older males, while they evaluate themselves to be as financially knowledgeable as older males. Further, several measures of overconfidence in financial knowledge are higher in older females than older males. A number of robustness checks, including a propensity score matching method, use of a polygenic risk scores, and a test of reproduction using the Survey of Consumer Finances corroborate these gender differences. Results from decomposition analyses of overconfidence indices show that relatively lower crystallized intelligence of older females is one of the main reasons that widens the gender gap among older adults. Lower likelihoods of attaining a college education degree and being in a relationship are additional contributing factors that explain the gender gap. This study provides insights into understanding the gender gap in financial knowledge and its implications for government education or intervention programs to support older adults' wellbeing in retirement.
COVID‐19 and the global need for knowledge on nurses' health
Authors: Llop‐Gironés Alba , Santillan‐Garcia Azucena , Cash‐Gibson Lucinda , Benach Joan , Zabalegui Adelaida
Published: October 2021

Aim

To emphasize that nurses need to be fully protected to carry out their vital role, particularly during pandemics, yet the lack of a standardized and systematic collection of high‐quality disaggregated data on nurses health inhibits our ability to assess this within and across countries.

Background

Nurses are the largest workforce group in the health sector, yet only 59 countries worldwide report on nurse COVID‐19 infections and related deaths, and the standardized, systematic collection of disaggregated health data is not yet in place.

Sources of evidence

Medline, International Council of Nurses, World Health Organization, Centers of Disease Control and Prevention and the experiences of the authors.

Discussion

Inconsistent recording and definitions of nurses, precarious and informal employment conditions, limited transparent and reliable data, lack of mass testing and long‐standing structural issues and biases have affected nursing for too long.

Conclusions

These issues are reflected in the limited capacity of many national public health information systems to collect, monitor and report on the health of the largest group of health workers. Political will, accountability and public data transparency at different levels are essential to adequately protect nurses at work.

Implications for nursing practice, and nursing and health policy

Building on current momentum in the nursing field, immediate political action is required to strengthen existing nursing and midwifery policies, standards and regulatory capacity, as well as existing public health services and information and surveillance systems. The generation of up‐to‐date, context‐specific knowledge is needed to inform and monitor political decisions related to the protection of nurses, and the improvement of their employment conditions, as well as to strengthen accountability for these areas at various levels.
A comparative analysis of deferoxamine treatment modalities for dermal radiation‐induced fibrosis
Authors: Lavin Christopher V. , Abbas Darren B. , Fahy Evan J. , Lee Daniel K. , Griffin Michelle , Diaz Deleon Nestor M. , Mascharak Shamik , Chen Kellen , Momeni Arash , Gurtner Geoffrey C. , Longaker Michael T. , Wan Derrick C.
Published: October 2021

The iron chelator, deferoxamine (DFO), has been shown to potentially improve dermal radiation‐induced fibrosis (RIF) in mice through increased angiogenesis and reduced oxidative damage. This preclinical study evaluated the efficacy of two DFO administration modalities, transdermal delivery and direct injection, as well as temporal treatment strategies in relation to radiation therapy to address collateral soft tissue fibrosis. The dorsum of CD‐1 nude mice received 30 Gy radiation, and DFO (3 mg) was administered daily via patch or injection. Treatment regimens were prophylactic, during acute recovery, post‐recovery, or continuously throughout the experiment (n = 5 per condition). Measures included ROS‐detection, histology, biomechanics and vascularity changes. Compared with irradiated control skin, DFO treatment decreased oxidative damage, dermal thickness and collagen content, and increased skin elasticity and vascularity. Metrics of improvement in irradiated skin were most pronounced with continuous transdermal delivery of DFO. In summary, DFO administration reduces dermal fibrosis induced by radiation. Although both treatment modalities were efficacious, the transdermal delivery showed greater effect than injection for each temporal treatment strategy. Interestingly, the continuous patch group was more similar to normal skin than to irradiated control skin by most measures, highlighting a promising approach to address detrimental collateral soft tissue injury following radiation therapy.