bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A broad analysis of short-term overreactions in the market for cryptocurrencies
Authors: Kellner Tobias , Maltritz Dominik
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyze market inefficiencies in the market for cryptocurrencies by providing a comprehensive analysis of short-term (over)reactions that follow significant price changes of such currencies.

Design/methodology/approach

This study identifies and analyzes overreactions and mispricing in markets for cryptocurrencies by applying a broad set of thresholds that depend on market-specific dynamics and volatilities. This study also analyzes the returns on days following abnormal returns and identifies significant differences from normal returns using the t-test and the Mann–Whitney U-test. The researchers further complement the literature by using end-of-the-day returns in addition to high-low returns. Additionally, this study considers a broad sample of 50 cryptocurrencies for an expanded time span (2015–2020) that includes the big currencies as well as smaller currencies.

Findings

Findings detect the existence of overreactions and, thus, market inefficiencies in crypto markets. The findings for different methodological approaches are similar, which underpins the robustness of the findings. By considering a broad sample that includes small and big currencies, we can show the existence of a market size effect. By considering a broad set of thresholds, the authors further found evidence for a magnitude effect, which means that higher initial abnormal returns are related to higher inefficiencies.

Practical implications

This paper has practical implications. Market inefficiencies were detected, which can be used in practical trading to obtain excess returns. In fact, methodological approach of this study and its results can be used to derive a strategy for trading in cryptocurrencies that can be easily implemented. Based on the study’s findings, the authors can expect positive access returns by applying this trading strategy.

Originality/value

The authors complement the literature on market inefficiencies and mispricing in crypto markets by analyzing price patterns after initial abnormal returns. Researchers contribute by applying different methodological approaches in addition to the approaches used so far, by considering a set of different thresholds and by applying a much broader data set that enables the study to analyze additional aspects.
Rhetorical history and strategic marketing: the example of Starbucks
Authors: Volle Pierre
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This study aims to illustrate how firms engage in rhetorical history, i.e. “the process by which managers skillfully impose meaning on a firm’s past as a persuasive and agentic process” (Suddaby et al., 2010). The case study shows that the connection of past events to specific and schematic narratives allows external events to be appropriated and used by Starbucks as assets to achieve its organizational goals (e.g. legitimacy).

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on a close reading and coding of 1,852 “stories” (2,470 pages) published by Starbucks between 2003 and 2020.

Findings

The authors first show that Starbucks’ language relies heavily on terms referring to temporality. The authors then highlight the organization’s efforts to assert its history, to emphasize its heritage and to inscribe itself in local and national histories. With this case study, the authors contribute to the ongoing debate on history as an organizational resource. The study shows how brands that are not necessarily “historical” can mobilize rhetorical history in their strategic marketing.

Research limitations/implications

This case study illustrates four heritage implementation strategies: narrating, visualizing, performing and embodying. Further research could contribute to the discussion of rhetorical history production practices, in particular how heritage elements are validated, articulated, related and adopted by organizations (Burghausen and Balmer, 2014).

Originality/value

The research shows that the main mechanism for constituting social memory assets does not lie in the accumulation of narratives, but in the coupling of narratives at different levels, and in the inclusion of several stakeholders within the narratives. The research also highlights that the affirmation of the historicity of the firm is a prerequisite for the constitution of social memory assets. The research shows that there are a wide variety of ways to convey historical narratives, in particular the essential role leadership plays in the rhetorical process of historicization. The research also shows that the issues of identity and legitimacy are more closely linked than previous research has suggested. In a way, rhetorical history serves strategic management as much as marketing. The porosity between the different audiences allows for a strong alignment between stakeholders, thus consolidating a competitive advantage that lies at the heart of Starbucks’ success, and which notably contributes to reinforcing its core value proposition (i.e. access to a “welcoming, safe and inclusive” third place) and its relational business model. Finally, the case shows that the mobilization of social memory assets does not necessarily lead to the use of nostalgic associations. In this case, for Starbucks, it is not a matter of cultivating memories of the “good old days” but of drawing inspiration from the past, of maintaining traditions to remain culturally relevant and of relying on these assets to project itself into the future.
Post-pandemic marketing: when the peripheral becomes the core
Authors: Sheth Jagdish N.
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to articulate the impact of COVID-19 on marketing. It will shift from “physical first” to “digital first,” and from “selling to serving” the customers. This will impact all 4 Ps of marketing, as well as branding and innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

It is a conceptual paper based on literature review. The underlying construct used is transaction cost economics (TCE).

Findings

Using TCE, the paper finds that both consumers and marketers are very willing to shift to e-commerce and digital platforms which are both convenient, as well as cost-effective. Also, customer support organization will become a strategic advantage in interactive marketing.

Originality/value

This is an original paper written specifically for the special issue on the post-pandemic shock.
Impact on staff attitudes of brief personality disorder training for acute psychiatric wards
Authors: McDonald Claire , Seaman-Thornton Fiona , Mok Che Ling Michelle , Jakobsen Hanne , Riches Simon
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Negative attitudes towards “personality disorder” are common among mental health professionals. This study aims to design a psychoeducational training targeting attitudes to “personality disorder” for staff working in a London psychiatric hospital. Its impact on staff attitudes was evaluated.

Design/methodology/approach

Mental health clinicians were recruited from five acute psychiatric wards. Feasibility of implementing the training was measured. A free-association exercise explored baseline attitudes to “personality disorder” and visual analogue scales assessed staff attitudes pre- and post-training. Content analysis of staff feedback was carried out.

Findings

Psychoeducational training was found to be feasible, well-attended and highly valued by ward staff (N = 47). Baseline results revealed negative perceptions of “personality disorder”. Post-training, significant improvements in understanding, levels of compassion and attitudes to working with service users with a diagnosis of a “personality disorder” were observed. Staff feedback highlighted desire for further training and support.

Research limitations/implications

The sample size was relatively small and there was no control group, so findings should be interpreted with caution.

Practical implications

The findings highlight the need for support for staff working with service users with diagnoses of “personality disorder” on acute psychiatric wards. Providing regular training with interactive components may promote training as a resource for staff well-being. Planning to ensure service users’ and carers’ views are incorporated into the design of future training will be important.

Originality/value

This study is innovative in that it investigates the impact of a brief psychoeducational training on “personality disorder” designed for mental health staff on acute psychiatric wards.
COVID fear and work-family conflict: a moderated mediated model of religiosity, COVID stress and social distancing
Authors: Naveed Shabana , Lodhi Rab Nawaz , Mumtaz Muhammad Usman , Mustafa Faisal
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Based on the arguments of conservation of resource theory (COR), this study aims to investigate the mechanism underlying the linkage of COVID fear, work-family conflict (W-FC) and family-work conflict (F-WC) while investigating the mediating role of COVID stress and social distancing. The study also tests the moderating role of religiosity in these relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 401 survey responses from doctors and university teachers are collected through online and personally administrated questionnaires. Partial least square-based structural equation modeling technique is applied using Smart PLS software.

Findings

This study finds that COVID fear has a positive and significant impact on COVID stress and social distancing while religiosity negatively impacts COVID fear. Further, COVID stress and social distancing mediates the relationships between COVID fear and W-FC/ F-WC. However, the study found that COVID stress is a more effective mechanism as compared to social distancing in explaining the mediation process. It is also found that religiosity significantly moderates the nexus between COVID stress and both W-FC and F-WC negatively.

Practical implications

Findings imply that the teachers, as well as doctors, must be immediately be provided with the proper facilitation to maintain their work from home operations with the best of the institutional facilities. Moreover, the recruitment policy in such professions can also consider religious practices to be the indicators of problem-solving and stress management in such a challenging context.

Originality/value

This study provides timely and novel insight into the interplay between the domains of work and family during the period of stressful COVID outbreak. By distinguishing W-FC and F-WC, it provides a detailed understanding of the process during the COVID period. The groundbreaking finding in the research is with the moderation of religiosity.
Optimization and analysis of dry sliding wear process parameters on cellulose reinforced ABS polymer composite material
Authors: S. Ponsuriyaprakash , P. Udhayakumar , R. Pandiyarajan
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This study aims to the optimization using three factors and three-level parameters (sliding speed [rpm], sliding distance [m/s] and load [N]) of design matrix were adapted to Box–Behnken design using design expert v8.0 software. Based on the parameters, to develop the linear regression equation and to find the significant considerable wear process parameters based on output responses like wear loss (WL) and coefficient of friction (COF) value of polymer matrix composites (PMC) specimen of Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS)/cellulose composite (80 wt% of ABS and 20 wt% of cellulose).

Design/methodology/approach

The fabrication of the ABS/cellulose composite sample was carried out by the simple hands-on stir process method. As per the American Society for Testing and Materials G99 standard, the sample was made by the molding process. The wear analysis was made by multi tribotester TR25 machine and validated the developed model by using statistical software design expert v.8.0 and numerical tools like analysis of variance. The surface morphology [field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) analysis] of the sample was also observed using the Quanta FEG-250 FESEM instrument.

Findings

The parameters like sliding speed, sliding distance and load are independently affected the COF value and WL of the 80% of ABS matrix and 20% cellulose reinforced composite material. The regression equations were generated by the coefficient of friction value and WL, which predicted the minimum WL of 80% of ABS matrix and 20% of cellulose reinforced composite material. The worn surface analysis result exposes the worn path and equal distribution of reinforcement and matrix on the surface of composite material.

Originality/value

The literature survey revealed a small number of studies available regarding wear analysis of ABS matrix and cellulose reinforced composite materials. In the present work, to fabricate and evaluate the wear performance of PMC (80% of ABS and 20% of cellulose) depends on the WL and COF value. The maximum and minimum COF value (µ) of 80% of ABS and 20% of cellulose composite material is 4.71 and 0.28 with the optimized wear process parameter by 1,000 mm of sliding distance, 0.25 (m/s) of sliding speed and 9 N of load.
An empirical study on entrepreneurial traits and their impact on enterprise success
Authors: Pattanayak Sthitaprajnya , Kakati Munindra
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Enterprise success is driven by enterprise actions, which, in turn, is influenced by entrepreneurial behaviours. Behaviours are guided by traits. Hence, it is highly likely that personality traits of entrepreneur are critical to enterprise success. This paper aims at finding the relationship between entrepreneurial traits and enterprise success, identify underlying construct and examine how successful and unsuccessful entrepreneurs differ across traits. It also attempts enterprise profiling based on these traits and test predictive validity of entrepreneurial traits on enterprise success.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, 396 micro, small and medium enterprises comprising both successful and unsuccessful ones are studied together across 11 personality traits. Data was analysed using various statistical techniques like co-relation, t-test, factor analysis, cluster analysis and regression to test hypothesis and arrive at given findings.

Findings

This study finds there is strong positive co-relations between traits and enterprise success. It establishes that successful and unsuccessful enterprises display distinct traits and significantly differ from each other. Entrepreneurial traits affect enterprise success, and the former has significant predictive value on the later (R-squared = 0.866).

Practical implications

The findings have implications to entrepreneurs in relation to enriching the existing traits and inculcating new ones. Financial institutions like banks can peruse the findings and include traits and behavioural aspects in borrower selection, credit appraisal, evaluation and credit decisioning, to make it more holistic. It also generates scope for further academic research.

Originality/value

This study contributes to existing literature and validates existing findings. It also finds that traits are contagious in nature, together of which can be grouped to build an entrepreneurs’ traits index which exerts strong influence on enterprise success.
Determinants of Millennial behaviour towards current and future use of video streaming services
Authors: Walsh Philip , Singh Ranjita
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the evolution of factors that influence the current and future use of video streaming applications by Millennial consumers.

Design/methodology/approach

Combining technology acceptance, perceived values and user identity theory this study used factor analysis and multiple regression to examine data from a survey of 292 university undergraduates.

Findings

Millennial’s current and future use of video streaming services remains driven more by social and emotional values and their effect on identity salience with their choice of content. Ease of use, convenience and monetary value remains less of an influence currently but may become more important in the future with the continued maturity of the industry.

Practical implications

The results of this study suggest that video streaming service providers should be developing business models that recognize the increasing importance of emotional appeal and self-identity of their service offerings as the industry matures and competition increases.

Originality/value

The research is novel in addressing future video streaming service provision by examining changes in young consumer behaviour over time within a similar sample population and considering the growth and technological advancement of video streaming services. The results are significant in addressing the gap that exists in understanding whether perceived values for technology adoption of the same product or service by millennials change over time and the implications that have for product and service providers.
What approach and avoidance factors drive Gen-Z consumers to buy bubble tea? An exploratory study
Authors: Istijanto Istijanto , Handoko Indria
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Bubble tea has become a popular beverage among the Gen-Z population in recent years, not only in Asia where this beverage originated, but also worldwide. This research aims to understand the motivational factors of Gen-Z consumers in Indonesia in purchasing bubble tea products.

Design/methodology/approach

This research adopts a qualitative methodology by interviewing 22 Gen-Z consumers living in Indonesia. A thematic-analysis approach and NVivo software are applied for the data analysis.

Findings

Eight factors, i.e. taste, texture, packaging, store, price, health, trend and brand, play important roles in explaining how the emotional dimensions (pleasure, arousal and dominance) created by the environmental stimuli of bubble tea were approached or avoided within the purchasing behaviors of Gen-Z consumers. This study also identified affiliation behaviors as the result of interactions between the three dimensions.

Research limitations/implications

As a qualitative study, this research used a particular and limited context to gain insights. Hence, a broader scale of research using a quantitative approach is recommended to validate the factors influencing purchasing behavior among the Gen-Z population.

Practical implications

This study can help practitioners to gain a better understanding of Gen-Z consumers’ behaviors on beverage products and to formulate effective marketing strategies.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, by adopting a qualitative approach, this study is among the first to explore more deeply the emotional dimensions that drive Gen-Z’s decisions regarding whether to purchase a bubble tea product or not.
From crypsis to masquerade: Ontogeny changes the colour defences of a crab spider hiding as bird droppings
Authors: Yu Long , Xu Xin , Li Fan , Zhou Wei , Zeng Hua , Tan Eunice J. , Zhang Shichang , Li Daiqin
Published: December 2021

Selection imposed by visually hunting predators has driven the evolution of colour‐based antipredator defence strategies such as crypsis, masquerade, mimicry and aposematism. Individuals of many animals are generally considered to rely on a single type of defence strategy, but individuals of some species use multiple colour‐based defences. Many animals switch between colour‐based defences against visually hunting predators during ontogeny. However, why this occurs remains poorly understood.

The crab spider Phrynarachne ceylonica is an often‐cited example of a bird dropping masquerade. It has recently been demonstrated that P. ceylonica crab spiders gain protection from their predators by being misidentified as bird droppings by their predators. P. ceylonica females show an ontogenetic shift in colour defences: early instars possess a dark and cryptic form, while at later instars and as adults, the spiders resemble bird droppings. We hypothesised that this shift may be driven by differential changes in predation risk of two defence strategies with increasing body size due to ontogeny.

We tested this hypothesis by presenting naïve domestic chicks with 3D printed artificial spiders of two different sizes (small, large) and two colours (dark, bird dropping‐like), and determined whether larger bird dropping‐like spiders are more readily found and attacked than cryptic forms by chicks. We found that small cryptic spiders were more difficult to detect than small bird dropping masquerading spiders, but large cryptic spiders were attacked much more quickly and more frequently than large bird dropping masquerading spiders.

Increasing predation pressure on larger, cryptic spiders during ontogeny suggests that switching to bird dropping masquerade may be a more effective defence as spiders increase in size. We thus conclude that the ontogenetic shift from crypsis to masquerade is adaptive.
Genetic variation of Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis is linked to skin bacterial diversity in the Pacific treefrog Hyliola regilla (hypochondriaca)
Authors: Basanta María Delia , Rebollar Eria A. , García‐Castillo Mirna G. , Rosenblum Erica Bree , Byrne Allison Q. , Piovia‐Scott Jonah , Parra‐Olea Gabriela
Published: December 2021

Symbiotic bacterial communities are crucial to combating infections and contribute to host health. The amphibian skin microbiome plays an important role in protecting their hosts against pathogens such as Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), one of the causative agents of chytridiomycosis, which is responsible for dramatic amphibian population declines worldwide. Although symbiotic skin bacteria are known to inhibit Bd growth, an understanding of the relationship between Bd genetic variability, environmental conditions, and skin bacterial communities is limited. Therefore, we examined the associations between Bd infection load, Bd genetic diversity and skin bacterial communities in five populations of Hyliola regilla (hypochondriaca) from environmentally contrasting sites in Baja California, Mexico. We observed differences in Bd genetics and infection load among sites and environments. Genetic analysis of Bd isolates revealed patterns of spatial structure corresponding to the five sites sampled. Amphibian skin bacterial diversity and community structure differed among environments and sites. Bacterial community composition was correlated with Bd genetic differences and infection load, with specific bacterial taxa enriched on infected and un‐infected frogs. Our results indicate that skin‐associated bacteria and Bd strains likely interact on the host skin, with consequences for microbial community structure and Bd infection intensity.
Conspicuous cruciform silk decorations deflect avian predator attacks
Authors: WANG Bingjun , YU Long , MA Nina , ZHANG Zengtao , GONG Deyong , LIU Rui , LI Daiqin , ZHANG Shichang
Published: December 2021

Although camouflage as an effective antipredator defense strategy is widespread across animals, highly conspicuous color patterning is not uncommon either. Many orb‐web spiders adorn their webs with extra bright white silk. These conspicuous decorations are hypothesized to deter predators by warning the presence of sticky webs, camouflaging spiders, acting as a decoy, or intimidating predators by their apparent size. The decorations may also deflect predator attacks from spiders. However, empirical evidence for this deflection function remains limited. Here, we tested this hypothesis using the X‐shaped silk cruciform decorations built by females of Argiope minuta. We employed visual modeling to quantify the conspicuousness of spiders and decorations from a perspective of avian predators. Then, we determined actual predation risk on spiders using naïve chicks as predators. Spider bodies and decorations were conspicuous against natural backgrounds to the avian visual systems. Chicks attacked the spider main bodies significantly less frequently on the decorated webs than on the undecorated webs, thus reducing predation risk. When both spiders and decorations were present, chicks also attacked the spider main bodies and their legs or decorations, and not randomly: they attacked the legs or decorations sooner and more frequently than they attacked the main bodies, independent of the ratio of the surface area between the decoration and spider size. Despite the increase in detectability, incorporating a conspicuous cruciform decoration to the web effectively defends the spider by diverting the attack toward the decoration or leg, but not by camouflaging or intimidating, thus, supporting the deflection hypothesis.
Molecular phylogeny and historical biogeography of the cave fish genusSinocyclocheilus(Cypriniformes: Cyprinidae) in southwest China
Authors: WEN Huamei , LUO Tao , WANG Yali , WANG Siwei , LIU Tao , XIAO Ning , ZHOU Jiang
Published: December 2021

Modern accumulations of genetic data offer unprecedented opportunities for understanding the systematic classification and origins of specific groups of organisms. The genusSinocyclocheilusis among the most cave abundant genera in Cyprinidae, with 76 recognized species, belonging to 4 species groups. Recent phylogenetic studies have shown that the classification of species groups within the genusSinocyclocheilusremains controversial. In this study, we constructed a sequence supermatrix of 26 species from 4 species groups of the genusSinocyclocheilususing the mitochondrial genome to reveal phylogenetic relationships, historical biogeography and patterns of species diversification in the genusSinocyclocheilus. Phylogenetic analysis strongly supports the monophyletic groups of the 3 species groups (S. jii,S. cyphotergous, andS. tingigroups) except theS. angularisgroup. Phylogenetic analysis showed thatS. anshuiensisandS. microphthalmus, which were recognized as numbers ofS. angularisgroup, formed a strongly supported independent clade. Therefore, we propose a new species group, theS. microphthalmusgroup, which containsS. anshuiensisandS. microphthalmus. Biogeographic reconstruction suggests that the livingSinocyclocheilusmay have originated in north‐central Guangxi at the late Eocene and dispersed outward after a vicariance at 32.31 Million years ago (Ma). Early diversification is focused on the late Oligocene (ca. 25 Ma), which is related to the second uplift of the Qinghai−Tibetan Plateau and the lateral extrusion of the Indochina at the Oligocene/Miocene boundary. Our results suggest that 2 uplifts of the Qinghai−Tibetan Plateau and climate change in the Miocene may have influenced the diversification of theSinocyclocheiluslineage.
Comparing effectiveness and return on investment of action‐ and results‐based agri‐environmental payments in Switzerland
Authors: Wuepper David , Huber Robert
Published: December 2021

Agri‐environmental schemes are an important policy tool to foster agricultural sustainability. We assess the effectiveness and return on investment of two different schemes designed to encourage biodiversity conservation in Switzerland: payments for actions and payments for results. Empirically, we exploit a major policy reform that created a natural experiment by abruptly and unevenly increasing both payments across farmers. Using difference in differences, we estimate the effect of the policy reform on farmers for whom only the action‐ or the results‐based payments increased, as well as on those for whom both increased, compared to farmers for whom neither increased. Our findings are fourfold: First, higher payments increased the biodiversity conservation area. A payment raise by 1% increased conservation areas on average by 0.6% in the action based, and by 1% in the results‐based scheme. Second, the combination of both schemes increased average effectiveness but also windfall gains. Third, using a benefit transfer approach, we estimate a positive return of investment for all payment increases. Finally, the estimated return on investment for the results‐based payments is higher than for the action‐based payments.
Dermoscopy of inflamed seborrheic keratosis: A great mimic of malignancy
Authors: Álvarez‐Salafranca Marcial , Gómez‐Martín Ignacio , Bañuls José , Serrano Patricia , Medina Carolina , Llambrich Alex , Pizarro Ángel , Ara Mariano , Zaballos Pedro
Published: December 2021

Background

Clinical and dermoscopic recognition of seborrheic keratoses (SKs) is often straightforward, and biopsy might not be required. However, inflamed SKs (iSKs) can pose a diagnostic challenge. Dermoscopic features of iSKs have not yet been evaluated to date.

Objectives

To assess the diagnostic ability of a group of dermatologists to diagnose iSKs by dermoscopy. To evaluate the dermoscopic findings of a long series of inflamed seborrheic keratoses.

Methods

Clinical and dermoscopic images of 100 difficult‐to‐diagnose skin tumours, including 29 iSKs, were presented to 33 clinicians (24 dermatologists and 9 dermatology residents), who were blinded to the diagnosis. The dermoscopic features of a series of 219 iSKs were retrospectively analysed.

Results

iSKs were correctly identified in a 37.6% of cases. Classic dermoscopic criteria were present in only 47% of iSKs. The most frequent dermoscopic feature in iSKs was the presence of vascularization (91.3%), but only a 44.5% showed predominance of hairpin vessels. A bluish hue was observed in 18.3% of lesions. Seven dermoscopic patterns were identified, based on the dermoscopic similarity to other tumours: seborrheic keratosis‐like (28.8%); squamous cell carcinoma‐like (25.6%); melanoma‐like (17.8%); keratoacanthoma‐like (6.8%); basal cell carcinoma‐like (5.9%); verruca vulgaris‐like (5.9%); nevus‐like (2.3%).

Conclusions

The diagnosis of iSKs can be challenging even with dermoscopy. They may behave as authentic mimics of other cutaneous tumours, including squamous cell carcinoma or melanoma. For this reason, histopathological examination should be mandatory in these cases.
Efficacy of regional blocks or local anaesthetic infiltration for analgesia after caesarean delivery: a network meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Singh N. P. , Monks D. , Makkar J. K. , Palanisamy A. , Sultan P. , Singh P. M.
Published: December 2021

Caesarean delivery is common and can cause severe postoperative pain but injection of local anaesthetic at various sites for regional blocks or local anaesthetic infiltration may reduce this. We aimed to compare and rank these sites. We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, EMBASE and CENTRAL to June 2021 for randomised controlled trials and performed a random‐effects Bayesian model network meta‐analysis. The primary outcome was dose of parenteral morphine equivalents in the first 24 postoperative hours. We used surface under cumulative ranking probabilities to order techniques. We analysed 114 trials (8730 participants). The ordered mean (95% credible interval) reduction in morphine equivalents, from 34 mg with placebo, were as follows: ilio‐inguinal 15 (1–32) mg; ilio‐inguinal–iliohypogastric 13 (6–19) mg; transversalis fascia 11 (4–26) mg; erector spinae 11 (10–32); transverse abdominis 9 (4–13) mg; wound catheter infusion 8 (2–15) mg; quadratus lumborum 8 (1–15) mg; wound infiltration 8 (2–13) mg; and no intervention −4 (−10 to 2) mg. Ordered efficacies for injection sites were different for other relevant outcomes, including pain (to 4–6 h and to 24 h) and time to rescue analgesia: there was no single preferred route of injection. The ordered mean (95% credible interval) reduction in dynamic pain scores (0–10 scale) at 24 h compared with placebo were as follows: wound infusion 1.2 (0.2–2.1); erector spinae 1.3 (−0.5 to 3.1); quadratus lumborum 1.0 (0.1–1.8); ilio‐inguinal–iliohypogastric 0.6 (−0.5 to 1.8); transverse abdominis 0.6 (−0.1 to 1.2); wound infiltration 0.5 (−0.3 to 1.3); transversalis fascia −0.8 (−3.4 to 1.9); ilio‐inguinal −0.9 (−3.6 to 1.7); and no intervention −0.8 (−1.8 to 0.2). We categorised our confidence in effect sizes as low or very low.
Differences in students’ scholastic well‐being induced by familial and scholastic context
Authors: Obermeier Ramona , Schlesier Juliane , Gläser‐Zikuda Michaela
Published: December 2021

Background

Since scholastic well‐being is connected with intrinsic motivation, positive emotions and effective learning, it is highly relevant for educational research. It is influenced by a variety of individual and contextual determinants and differs for several groups of students with respect to their environmental conditions.

Aims

Up to now, there has been neither approach in answering questions about group‐differences between students with high or low levels of scholastic well‐being nor in defining variables that are most different for these groups. The current study addresses this research gap by investigating differences in familial and scholastic aspects in two distinct groups of students (extreme high or low level of scholastic well‐being).

Sample and Method

Self‐report questionnaires fromN = 852 fifth graders were evaluated using the multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and a discriminant analysis.

Results

Results of the discriminant analysis show that attainment of academic educational track, good classroom‐management, positive social climate in class and high clarity of instruction, as well as low parental pressure on performance are characteristics that classify students with an extreme high level of scholastic well‐being. Therefore, those variables can be used to divide students into disjoint groups without having any information about their actual scholastic well‐being.

Conclusion

Firstly, it can be deduced from the findings that measures within the schools to promote scholastic well‐being should start with the improvement of instructional quality and social climate. Second, reduction of parental pressure on performance as well as the implementation of successful cooperation between families and schools is vital.
Technology, Transference, and COVID‐19 — With Reference to Davanloo's Intensive Short‐term Dynamic Psychotherapy
Authors: Hickey Catherine , Schubmehl James Q. , Beeber Alan
Published: December 2021

The COVID‐19 pandemic has had an undeniable impact on the practice of psychotherapy. Many psychotherapists made a rapid decision to convert to videoconference psychotherapy (VCP) early in the pandemic, but few had effective ‘how to’ instructions in the optimal setup of a VCP practice. Many psychotherapists find VCP to be convenient, practical, and effective in working in various psychodynamic modalities. But others have complained that the true intimacy of the emotional relationship of psychotherapy is lacking on the computer screen. This article seeks to define the optimal VCP setup in a practical way. We also review the literature to date on how technology impacts psychodynamic psychotherapy in general and transference in particular. We discuss the transference from the lens of Davanloo's Intensive Short‐term Dynamic Psychotherapy. We review the existing literature (both pre‐ and post‐pandemic) on the effectiveness of VCP and note the paucity of empirical evidence (specifically randomized controlled trials) to support its use during global pandemics. Despite this lack of evidence, there seems to be enough anecdotal evidence to support that VCP is certainly better than no therapy at all, and in some cases, quite effective in maintaining the parameters of a highly charged and emotionally rich patient/therapist dyad. We support its use and anticipate future research.
Lomami Buffer Zone (DRC): Forest composition, structure, and the sustainability of its use by local communities
Authors: Batumike Rodrigue , Imani Gérard , Bisimwa Benjamin , Mambo Hwaba , Kalume John , Kavuba Fidele , Cuni‐Sanchez Aida
Published: December 2021

The recently created Lomami National Park has an extensive Buffer Zone where local communities are allowed to use forest products sustainably. However, the management of this Buffer Zone is hampered by inadequate understanding of the floristic composition and the impacts of harvesting certain plant products. To fill in this data gap, we established and sampled 30 vegetation plots of 40 × 40 m, and investigated the population structure of 11 useful tree species preferred by local communities. We found that the Buffer Zone is mostly composed of mixed‐species undisturbed old growth forest. It contains nine tree species of international conservation concern (listed in the IUCN Red list and/or apart from the Red list, Gibourtia demeusei, not been assessed by IUCN Red list, is listed in CITES Appendix II since January 2017; UNEP‐WCMC, Review of selected Dalbergia species and Guibourtia demeusei, UNEP‐WCMC, 2017). The floristic diversity of the Buffer Zone, which requires further investigation as some species remained unidentified. Most preferred tree species (including Garcinia kola and Milicia excelsa) are abundant and showed a reverse‐J size distribution, indicating a relatively stable population structure. For these species, current levels of exploitation seem sustainable. Further research is needed for two nonabundant species of conservation concern (Autranella congolensis and Michelsonia microphylla). Although timber/firewood commercial harvesting is currently limited in the study area, the management plan of the Buffer Zone should consider these risks given increasing commercial hunting. Surveys and permanent plots provide essential information to guide the management of newly formed protected areas.

Abstract in French is available with online material.
Divergent variant patterns among 19 patients withRubinstein‐Taybisyndrome uncovered by comprehensive genetic analysis including whole genome sequencing
Authors: Enomoto Yumi , Yokoi Takayuki , Tsurusaki Yoshinori , Murakami Hiroaki , Tominaga Makiko , Minatogawa Mari , Abe‐Hatano Chihiro , Kuroda Yukiko , Ohashi Ikuko , Ida Kazumi , Shiiya Shizuka , Kumaki Tatsuro , Naruto Takuya , Mitsui Jun , Harada Noriaki , Kido Yasuhiro , Kurosawa Kenji
Published: December 2021

Rubinstein‐Taybi syndrome (RSTS) is characterized by dysmorphic facial features, broad thumbs, and intellectual disability. CREB‐binding protein (CREBBP) or E1A‐binding protein P300 (EP300) are causative genes. To elucidate the underlying genetic and genomic architecture related to the RSTS phenotype, we performed comprehensive genetic analysis targetingCREBBPand/orEP300in 22 clinically diagnosed patients. During the 11‐year study period, we used several analysis methods including high‐resolution melting, array‐based comparative genomic hybridization, panel‐based exome sequencing, whole exome sequencing, and whole genome sequencing (WGS). We identified the causative variants in 19 patients (86.3%), but they were variable and complex, so we must combine multiple analysis methods. Notably, we found genetic alterations in the non‐coding regions of two patients (10.5%, 2/19): scattered deletions including a partial 5′‐untranslated region ofCREBBPin one patient (all coding exons were intact), and a deep 229‐bp intronic deletion in another patient, resulting in a splicing error. Furthermore, we identified rare clinical findings: two patients with anEP300variant showed abnormal development of the neural tube, and one patient with aCREBBPvariant had anorectal atresia with a cloaca. Our findings expand the allelic heterogeneity of RSTS, underscore the utility of comprehensive genetic analysis, and suggest that WGS may be a practical diagnostic strategy.
A phase I, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, single‐ and multiple dose escalation study evaluating the safety, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of VX‐128, a highly selective Nav1.8 inhibitor, in healthy adults
Authors: Hijma Hemme J. , van Brummelen Emilie M. J. , Siebenga Pieter S. , Groeneveld Geert Jan
Published: December 2021

Selective inhibition of certain voltage‐gated sodium channels (Navs), such as Nav1.8, is of primary interest for pharmacological pain research and widely studied as a pharmacological target due to its contribution to repetitive firing, neuronal excitability, and pain chronification. VX‐128 is a highly potent and selective Nav1.8 inhibitor that was being developed as a treatment for pain. We evaluated the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics of VX‐128 in healthy subjects in a single‐ and multiple‐ascending dose (MAD) first‐in‐human study. Pharmacodynamics were evaluated in the MAD part using a battery of evoked pain tests. Overall, single doses of VX‐128 up to 300 mg were well‐tolerated, although adverse effect (AE) incidence was higher in subjects receiving VX‐128 (41.7%) compared with placebo (25.0%). After multiple dosing of up to 10 days, skin rash events were observed at all dose levels (up to 100 mg once daily [q.d.]), in five of 26 (19.2%) subjects, including one subject receiving VX‐128 (100 mg q.d.) who had a serious AE of angioedema. A trend in pain tolerance were observed for cold pressor‐ and pressure pain, which was dose‐dependent for the latter. VX‐128 was rapidly absorbed (median time to maximum plasma concentration between 1 and 2 h) with a half‐life of ~80 h at 10 mg q.d., and approximately two‐fold accumulation ratio after 10 and 30 mg q.d. Although VX‐128, when given in a multiple dose fashion, resulted in early study termination due to tolerability issues, effects were observed on multiple pain tests that may support further investigation of Nav1.8 inhibitors as pain treatments.
Detecting dysglycaemia in compensated liver cirrhosis: Comparison of oral glucose tolerance test and glycated haemoglobin, with continuous glucose monitoring
Authors: Barron Cicely V. M. , Heenan Helen F. , Thompson Harmony , Chan Huan , Ngu Jeffrey , Lunt Helen
Published: December 2021

Aims

Liver cirrhosis increases the risk of developing dysglycaemia (pre‐diabetes and diabetes), thus people with cirrhosis should undergo regular screening for dysglycaemia. The utility of screening using the laboratory glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) test has been questioned in this setting. This study examines the relationship between different potential screening modalities: 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and HbA1c, using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) as a comparator.

Methods

Participants ≥18 years with no known diabetes, were recruited from a gastroenterology cirrhosis surveillance register. Study measurements included a 75 g OGTT, laboratory HbA1c and two weeks of ‘blinded’ CGM (Freestyle Libre Pro). The possibility of intravascular haemolysis affecting HbA1c interpretation was also assessed.

Results

All 20 participants had compensated cirrhosis. OGTT tended to diagnose more dysglycaemia (N = 7) than did HbA1c (N = 4). Bland‐Altman analysis showed laboratory and CGM‐estimated HbA1c were broadly comparable, with a difference of 4mmol/mol (95% CI −3 to 12), or 0.4% (95% CI −0.3 to 1.1). Laboratory HbA1c tended to be higher than the CGM‐estimated HbA1c, perhaps reflecting positive lifestyle changes in participants during their two weeks of wearing ‘blinded’ CGM (Hawthorne effect). In the population studied, there was no evidence that haemolysis affected interpretation of HbA1c results.

Conclusions

In the setting of compensated cirrhosis, the OGTT and HbA1c remain standard screening test for diabetes, but multiple studies show the OGTT diagnoses more people with dysglycaemia than does the HbA1c. Blinded CGM in an ambulatory, real world setting provides additional insights into glycaemic excursions but cannot be used to diagnose dysglycaemia.
Effect of upper gastrointestinal disease on the pharmacokinetics of oral semaglutide in subjects with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Meier Juris J. , Granhall Charlotte , Hoevelmann Ulrike , Navarria Andrea , Plum‐Moerschel Leona , Ramesh Chethana , Tannapfel Andrea , Kapitza Christoph
Published: December 2021

Aim

To investigate whether upper gastrointestinal (GI) disease has any effect on the exposure of oral semaglutide, an important consideration given that its absorption occurs primarily in the stomach.

Materials and Methods

In an open‐label, parallel‐group trial (NCT02877355), subjects aged 18‐80 years with type 2 diabetes with mild‐to‐moderate upper GI disease (N = 36; chronic gastritis [n = 5], gastroesophageal reflux disease [n = 8], and both [n = 23]) or without upper GI disease (N = 19) received oral semaglutide 3 mg once daily for 5 days, followed by 7 mg for 5 days. The primary and key supportive endpoints were the area under the semaglutide plasma concentration–time curve (AUC) from 0 to 24 hours after last trial product administration on day 10 (AUC0−24h,day10) and the maximum semaglutide plasma concentration (Cmax,day10), respectively.

Results

Semaglutide exposure was not statistically significantly different between subjects with and without upper GI disease. Estimated group ratios (subjects with/without upper GI disease) were 1.18 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.80, 1.75) for AUC0−24h,day10 and 1.16 (95% CI, 0.77, 1.76) for Cmax. Time to Cmax and semaglutide half‐life were similar in subjects with and without upper GI disease. Oral semaglutide was well tolerated; all adverse events were mild‐to‐moderate, with no withdrawals because of adverse events.

Conclusions

There was no significant difference in exposure to oral semaglutide in subjects with or without upper GI disease, hence no dose adjustment is required.
Nutrient identity modifies the destabilising effects of eutrophication in grasslands
Authors: Carroll Oliver , Batzer Evan , Bharath Siddharth , Borer Elizabeth T. , Campana Sofía , Esch Ellen , Hautier Yann , Ohlert Timothy , Seabloom Eric W. , Adler Peter B. , Bakker Jonathan D. , Biederman Lori , Bugalho Miguel N. , Caldeira Maria , Chen Qingqing , Davies Kendi F. , Fay Philip A. , Knops Johannes M. H. , Komatsu Kimberly , Martina Jason P. , McCann Kevin S. , Moore Joslin L. , Morgan John W. , Muraina Taofeek O. , Osborne Brooke , Risch Anita C. , Stevens Carly , Wilfahrt Peter A. , Yahdjian Laura , MacDougall Andrew S.
Published: December 2021

Nutrient enrichment can simultaneously increase and destabilise plant biomass production, with co‐limitation by multiple nutrients potentially intensifying these effects. Here, we test how factorial additions of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium with essential nutrients (K+) affect the stability (mean/standard deviation) of aboveground biomass in 34 grasslands over 7 years. Destabilisation with fertilisation was prevalent but was driven by single nutrients, not synergistic nutrient interactions. On average, N‐based treatments increased mean biomass production by 21–51% but increased its standard deviation by 40–68% and so consistently reduced stability. Adding P increased interannual variability and reduced stability without altering mean biomass, while K+ had no general effects. Declines in stability were largest in the most nutrient‐limited grasslands, or where nutrients reduced species richness or intensified species synchrony. We show that nutrients can differentially impact the stability of biomass production, with N and P in particular disproportionately increasing its interannual variability.
Can I afford to publish? A dilemma for African scholars
Authors: Mekonnen Addisu , Downs Colleen , Effiom Edu O. , Kibaja Mohamed , Lawes Michael J. , Omeja Patrick , Ratsoavina Fanomezana M. , Razafindratsima Onja , Sarkar Dipto , Stenseth Nils Chr. , Chapman Colin A.
Published: December 2021

With open‐access publishing authors often pay an article processing charge and subsequently their article is freely available online. These charges are beyond the reach of most African academics. Thus, the trend towards open‐access publishing will shift the business model from a pay‐wall model, where access to literature is limited, to a pay‐to‐publish one, where African scholars cannot afford to publish. We explore the costs of publishing and the ability of African scholars to afford to publish via open access in top journals. Three‐quarters of the 40 top ecology journals required payment for open‐access publishing (average cost $3150). Paying such fees is a hardship for African scholars as grant funding is not available and it is not feasible to pay the fees themselves as salaries are low. We encourage funders and publishers to facilitate an equitable publishing model that allows African scholars to make their research available through open‐access publishing.