bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An electric vehicle routing model with charging stations consideration for sustainable logistics
Authors: Li Yan , Lim Ming K. , Xiong Weiqing , Huang Xingjun , Shi Yuhe , Wang Songyi
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Recently, electric vehicles have been widely used in the cold chain logistics sector to reduce the effects of excessive energy consumption and to support environmental friendliness. Considering the limited battery capacity of electric vehicles, it is vital to optimize battery charging during the distribution process.

Design/methodology/approach

This study establishes an electric vehicle routing model for cold chain logistics with charging stations, which will integrate multiple distribution centers to achieve sustainable logistics. The suggested optimization model aimed at minimizing the overall cost of cold chain logistics, which incorporates fixed, damage, refrigeration, penalty, queuing, energy and carbon emission costs. In addition, the proposed model takes into accounts factors such as time-varying speed, time-varying electricity price, energy consumption and queuing at the charging station. In the proposed model, a hybrid crow search algorithm (CSA), which combines opposition-based learning (OBL) and taboo search (TS), is developed for optimization purposes. To evaluate the model, algorithms and model experiments are conducted based on a real case in Chongqing, China.

Findings

The result of algorithm experiments illustrate that hybrid CSA is effective in terms of both solution quality and speed compared to genetic algorithm (GA) and particle swarm optimization (PSO). In addition, the model experiments highlight the benefits of joint distribution over individual distribution in reducing costs and carbon emissions.

Research limitations/implications

The optimization model of cold chain logistics routes based on electric vehicles provides a reference for managers to develop distribution plans, which contributes to the development of sustainable logistics.

Originality/value

In prior studies, many scholars have conducted related research on the subject of cold chain logistics vehicle routing problems and electric vehicle routing problems separately, but few have merged the above two subjects. In response, this study innovatively designs an electric vehicle routing model for cold chain logistics with consideration of time-varying speeds, time-varying electricity prices, energy consumption and queues at charging stations to make it consistent with the real world.
Exploring independent learning (IL) and its relationship to mindset, motivated strategies for learning and academic performance
Authors: Forbes-McKay Katrina E. , Bremner Pauline A.M. , Johnston Pamela , Air Carol
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study addresses gaps in the existing literature on students' understanding of Independent Learning (IL), whilst exploring the link between levels of IL, growth mindset, motivated strategies for learning and academic performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Three hundred and eighty-six university students recruited via opportunistic sampling completed an online survey to measure: understanding and level of IL, Motivated Strategies for Learning (MSL) (Duncan and McKeachie, 2005) and growth mindset (Dweck, 2000). Interaction with the university Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) and academic grades were also measured. A correlational design was implemented, and a Spearman Rho was calculated to explore the relationship between level of IL, MSL and growth mindset. A between-subjects design using independent measures t-test was employed to determine the significance of any difference in level of IL and VLE engagement according to academic grade.

Findings

Whilst most students: considered themselves an IL and understood what IL was, the majority erroneously believed it meant learning alone or without help. Level of IL, however, was positively associated with motivational beliefs (self-efficacy and mindset), cognitive strategies (rehearsal, elaboration, organisation and critical thinking), and metacognitive strategies (time management and self-regulation). Further, those with grades A-C scored significantly higher than those with grades D and below on cognitive strategies (elaboration and organisation). Those attaining higher grades also interacted with the VLE significantly more frequently and regularly than those attaining lower grades.

Originality/value

This study adds to the existing literature by highlighting the positive relationship between level of IL, MSL, mindset and academic achievement. It also addresses the under-explored potential for VLE engagement in predicting grades amongst on-campus courses. Given that cognitive strategies and VLE engagement differentiate the high and low achievers, interventions to develop such skills may enhance academic achievement.
An empiric on geopolitical risk and the tourism–economic growth nexus
Authors: Kyaw K. Sandar , Luo Yun , De Vita Glauco
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study empirically examines the moderating role of geopolitical risk on the tourism–economic growth nexus by applying a recent geopolitical risk indicator developed by Caldara and Iacoviello (2022) in a cross-country panel data growth model context for a sample of 24 countries.

Design/methodology/approach

A Dummy Variable Least Squares panel data model, nonparametric covariance matrix estimator and SYS-GMM estimation techniques are employed for the analysis. The authors capture the GPR moderating effect by disaggregating the cross-country sample according to low versus high country GPR score and through a GPR interaction coefficient. Several controls are included in the models such as gross fixed capital formation and—consistent with Barro (1990)—government consumption. Trade openness is used to account for the export-led growth effect. In line with neoclassical growth theory (e.g. Barro, 1991), the authors also include the real interest rate, to account for policy makers' commitment to macroeconomic stability, financial depth, as a proxy for financial development, population growth and the level of secondary school education. The authors also control for unobserved country-specific and time-invariant effects.

Findings

The research finds that the interaction term of geopolitical risk significantly contributes to the predictive ability of the regression and provides empirical evidence that confirms that only in low geopolitical risk countries international tourism positively and significantly contributes to economic growth. Important theoretical and policy implications flow from these findings.

Originality/value

The study not only contributes to advancing academic knowledge on the tourism–growth nexus, it also has impact beyond academia. Many countries have in the past pursued and many continue to pursue, tourism specialization and/or tourism-led growth strategies based on the theoretically well-established and empirically validated positive link between inbound tourism and economic growth. The findings alert policy makers in such countries to the significant moderating role that geopolitical risk plays in affecting the above-mentioned relationship and to the importance of prioritizing geopolitical stability as a policy precursor for the successful implementation of such strategies.
Corporate social responsibility and sustainable development goals: evidence from responsible business leaders
Authors: S. Leena , K.R.A. Balaji , R. Ganesh Kumar , Bhat Prathima K. , A. Satya Nandini
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study aims to provide a framework aligning corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives with sustainable development goals (SDGs) 2030, applying the triple bottom line (TBL) approach. The research examines and evaluates the reach of Maharatna Central Public Sector Enterprises’ (CPSE) CSR spending towards sustainability and maps them with SDGs focusing on economic, social and environmental aspects. In addition, state-wise spending for CSR of all eligible Indian companies has been discussed.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used secondary data related to CSR spending and disclosure from the annual reports and sustainability reports accessible on the official websites of CPSE, Global Reporting Initiative standards, CSR Guidelines of Department of Public Enterprises and Securities Exchange Board of India, Government of India’s National Guidelines on Responsible Business Conduct (NGRBC) (2018) research papers, financial dailies and websites. The study includes the CPSEs awarded with the status of Maharatna companies under the Guidelines of Maharatna Scheme for CPSEs.

Findings

The top CSR initiatives focused on by Maharatna companies were related to poverty, hunger, sanitation and well-being, promotion of education and contribution to the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund. These initiatives aligned with the top SDGs related to life on land, education and health care, which proved responsible business leadership (RBL) through TBL. The alignment indicates that India is moving towards sustainable development achievements systematically.

Practical implications

The practical consequences can be understood through the CSR spending of Maharatna Public Sector Undertakings towards economic, social and environmental aspects. The spending demonstrates their commitment, which other public and private sector organizations can adopt.

Social implications

The Government of India’s NGRBC’s guidelines towards inclusive growth and equitable development, addressing environmental concerns, and being responsive to all its stakeholders is a thorough indication of driving the business towards being more responsible. This research has developed a framework aligning CSR and SDG through the TBL approach, which other developing countries can adopt as a model.

Originality/value

There is dearth of research among public sector company’s contribution towards attaining SDGs and demonstrating RBL. This research fulfils this gap. Mapping CSR activities to SDG’s also has not been clearly carried out in previous research, which is a contribution of this study.
Acquisition as a mode for servitisation: servitisation integration and consequences
Authors: Öberg Christina
Published: December 2023

Purpose

While existing literature extensively explores manufacturing firms expanding into services, little is known about the modes of servitisation, the means by which they carry it out. This paper concentrates on acquisitions as a mode of servitisation. Post-acquisition integration is when the potential of an acquisition is realised. The paper therefore aims to categorise types of integrations following the acquisition of servitised firms and discusses their consequences for servitisation.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical part of the paper is based on two case studies, each involving the acquisition of servitised firms. Both acquirers changed their integration approach over time.

Findings

The paper conceptualises three types of integrations: rhetorical, insulated and transformative integrations, indicating whether and how the acquirer becomes servitised following the integration. These highlight the analysis of integration based on business models and customer orientation in relation to servitisation.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to research on servitisation by emphasising acquisitions as a mode of servitisation and conceptualising three integration types related to business models and customer orientations. Furthermore, the paper highlights how an acquirer's servitisation leads to new offerings targeting new customers, as opposed to strengthening existing relationships.
A multiple-case study on the adoption of customer relationship management and big data analytics in the automotive industry
Authors: Hu Lala , Basiglio Angela
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This paper aims at understanding how automotive firms integrate customer relationship management (CRM) tools and big data analytics (BDA) into their marketing strategies to enhance total quality management (TQM) after the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative methodology based on a multiple-case study was adopted, involving the collection of 18 interviews with eight leading automotive firms and other companies responsible for their marketing and CRM activities.

Findings

Results highlight that, through the adoption of CRM technology, automotive firms have developed best practices that positively impact business performance and TQM, thereby strengthening their digital culture. The challenges in the implementation of CRM and BDA are also discussed.

Research limitations/implications

The study suffers from limitations related to the findings' generalizability due to the restricted number of firms operating in a single industry involved in the sample.

Practical implications

Findings suggest new relational approaches and opportunities for automotive companies deriving from the use of CRM and BDA under an overall customer-oriented approach.

Originality/value

This research analyzes how CRM and BDA improve the marketing and TQM processes in the automotive industry, which is undergoing deep transformation in the current context of digital transformation.
Paving the way to successful six sigma implementation: investigating critical success factors as precursors: an empirical study
Authors: Bagherian Anthony , Gershon Mark , Kumar Sunil
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Numerous attempts at installing six sigma (SS) have faced challenges and fallen short of the desired success. Thus, it becomes vital to identify the critical factors and characteristics that play a pivotal role in achieving successful adoption. In this study the research has aimed to highlight that a considerable number of corporate SS initiatives, around 60%, fail primarily due to the improper incorporation of essential elements and flawed assumptions.

Design/methodology/approach

To validate the influence of critical success factors (CSFs) on SS accomplishment, the study employed a research design combining exploratory and mixed-methods approaches. A Likert-scale questionnaire was utilized, and a simple random sampling method was employed to gather data. Out of the 2,325 potential participants approached, 573 responses were received, primarily from Germany, the United Kingdom and Sweden. The analysis focused on 260 completed questionnaires and statistical methods including structural equation modeling (SEM), exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) were utilized for data analysis.

Findings

The study acknowledged four essential components of CSFs that are imperative for sustaining the success of SS: (1) Competence of belt System employees; (2) Project management skills; (3) Organizational economic capability and (4) Leadership commitment and engagement. These factors were identified as significant contributors to the maintenance of SS’s success.

Practical implications

The practical implications of this research imply that institutions, practitioners, and researchers can utilize the four identified factors to foster the sustainable deployment of SS initiatives. By incorporating these factors, organizations can enhance the effectiveness and longevity of their SS practices.

Originality/value

The investigation's originality lies in its contribution to assessing CSFs in SS deployment within the European automobile industry, utilizing a mixed-methods research design supplemented by descriptive statistics.
Improving spare parts (MRO) inventory management policies after COVID-19 pandemic: a Lean Six Sigma 4.0 project
Authors: Vazquez Hernandez Jesus , Elizondo Rojas Monica Daniela
Published: December 2023

Purpose

To redesign the spare parts (MRO) inventory management at Company XYZ's warehouse, considering the conditions after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

To address this research project, the authors integrated three methodologies: action research, Lean Six Sigma (DMAIC) and Cross Industry Standard Process for Data Mining. These methodologies integrated the Lean Six Sigma (LSS) 4.0 framework applied in this project.

Findings

The spare parts inventory value was reduced by 15%, and inventory turnover increased by 120% without negatively impacting the internal service level.

Practical implications

Practitioners leading or participating in continuous improvement projects (CIPs) should consider data quality (data available and data trustworthiness), problem-solving approach and target area involvement to achieve CIP goals. Otherwise, the LSS 4.0 could fail or extend its duration by several weeks or months.

Originality/value

This project shows the importance of controlling a target area before deciding to conduct a LSS 4.0 project. To address this problem, the LSS 4.0 team implemented 5S during the measure phase of the DMAIC. Also, this project offers significant practitioner and theoretical contributions to the body of knowledge about LSS 4.0.
Core taxa underpin soil microbial community turnover during secondary succession
Authors: Sveen Tord Ranheim , Viketoft Maria , Bengtsson Jan , Bahram Mohammad
Published: December 2023

Understanding the processes that underpin the community assembly of bacteria is a key challenge in microbial ecology. We studied soil bacterial communities across a large‐scale successional gradient of managed and abandoned grasslands paired with mature forest sites to disentangle drivers of community turnover and assembly. Diversity partitioning and phylogenetic null‐modelling showed that bacterial communities in grasslands remain compositionally stable following abandonment and secondary succession but they differ markedly from fully afforested sites. Zeta diversity analyses revealed the persistence of core microbial taxa that both reflected and differed from whole‐scale community turnover patterns. Differences in soil pH and C:N were the main drivers of community turnover between paired grassland and forest sites and the variability of pH within successional stages was a key factor related to the relative dominance of deterministic assembly processes. Our results indicate that grassland microbiomes could be compositionally resilient to abandonment and secondary succession and that the major changes in microbial communities between grasslands and forests occur fairly late in the succession when trees have established as the dominant vegetation. We also show that core taxa may show contrasting responses to management and abandonment in grasslands.
Bringing geography back in: Borderlands and public support for the European Union
Authors: NASR MOHAMED , RIEGER PIT
Published: December 2023

What explains the variation in public support for European integration? While the existing literature has predominantly focused on economic, cultural and political factors, the influence of geography has been largely overlooked. In this paper, we aim to fill this gap by examining the impact of residing in the European Union (EU) border regions on voters' perceptions and attitudes towards the EU. Contrary to previous research, our study reveals a remarkable pattern, indicating that individuals living in border regions exhibit a higher propensity to vote for Eurosceptic parties and hold negative views on the EU. Through the utilization of both behavioural and attitudinal indicators in years ranging between 1999 and 2021 and employing statistical matching, our analysis robustly supports this finding. Moreover, we delve into the underlying mechanisms driving these negative attitudes in border regions, highlighting the significance of institutional factors. A mediation analysis reveals an interesting and previously unexplored theoretical twist: We find that residing in a border region is associated with lower trust in national political institutions, which translates into distrust in the EU. These findings suggest that it might be policymakers residing in the capital of the country rather than people on the other side of the border that make borderland inhabitants' attitudes distinctly negative.
Access to preferred skilled nursing facilities: Transitional care pathways for patients withAlzheimer's disease and related dementias
Authors: Cross Dori A. , Bucy Taylor I. , Rahman Momotazur , McHugh John P.
Published: December 2023

Objective

The study aimed to assess whether individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) experience restricted access to hospitals' high‐volume preferred skilled nursing facility (SNF) partners.

Data Sources

The data source includes acute care hospital to SNF transitions identified using 100% Medicare Provider Analysis and Review files, 2017–2019.

Study Design

We model and compare the estimated effect of facility “preferredness” on SNF choice for patients with and without ADRD. We use conditional logistic regression with a 1:1 patient sample otherwise matched on demographic and encounter characteristics.

Data Collection

Our matched sample included 58,190 patients, selected from a total observed population of 3,019,260 Medicare hospitalizations that resulted in an SNF transfer between 2017 and 2019.

Principal Findings

Overall, patients with ADRD have a lower probability of being discharged to a preferred SNF (52.0% vs. 54.4%,p < 0.001). Choice model estimation using our matched sample suggests similarly that the marginal effect of preferredness on a patient choosing a proximate SNF is 2.4 percentage points lower for patients with ADRD compared with those without (p < 0.001). The differential effect of preferredness based on ADRD status increases when considering (a) the cumulative effect of multiple SNFs in close geographic proximity, (b) the magnitude of the strength of hospital‐SNF relationship, and (c) comparing patients with more versus less advanced ADRD.

Conclusions

Preferred relationships are significantly predictive of where a patient receives SNF care, but this effect is weaker for patients with ADRD. To the extent that these high‐volume relationships are indicative of more targeted transitional care improvements from hospitals, ADRD patients may not be fully benefiting from these investments. Hospital leaders can leverage integrated care relationships to reduce SNFs' perceived need to engage in selection behavior (i.e., enhanced resource sharing and transparency in placement practices). Policy intervention may be needed to address selection behavior and to support hospitals in making systemic improvements that can better benefit all SNF partners (i.e., more robust information sharing systems).
Tourism as an instrument of economic growth: Empirical exploration at the regional level in Spain
Authors: Alcalá‐Ordóñez Alejandro , Brida Juan Gabriel , Cárdenas‐García Pablo Juan , Segarra Verónica
Published: December 2023

This work analyzes the dynamic relationship existing between tourism and economic growth through the use of different indicators to measure tourism activity, according to regional data from Spain taken from 2004 to 2021 that are linked to the NUTS‐2 level of the nomenclature of the territorial units for statistics of the European Union. This is an innovative approach as compared to the majority of existing works analyzing this relationship at a country level. However, it is widely recognized that the contribution of tourism to growth takes place in the form of regional development. By introducing the notion of distance between the dynamic trajectories of the different regions, an analysis of hierarchical clusters was performed, enabling the identification of regional groups having similar behavior in terms of tourism performance and economic growth. In this work, it has been established that the impact of a region's total (national and international) tourism, in terms of both number of tourists and tourism expenditure, is the most appropriate indicator for tourism analysis at a regional level. Furthermore, it identifies the characteristics that are found in tourist regions having a higher level of economic growth, from a tourism perspective: high tourist spending, hotel accommodation, motivation for leisure, longer average stay, the region's orientation towards the tourism industry, and, mainly, the impact of international tourism. Therefore, those responsible for tourism destination management should implement policies that favor the arrival of tourist flows with these characteristics if they intend to promote tourism as an instrument for greater economic growth.
Assessment of body fluid identification and DNA profiling after exposure to tropical weather conditions
Authors: Zapico Sara C. , Stadler Christian , Roca Gabriela
Published: December 2023

Despite current advances in body fluid identification, there are few studies evaluating the effect of environmental conditions. The present work assessed the detection of body fluids, blood, semen, and saliva, through lateral flow immunochromatographic (LFI) tests, exposed to tropical weather conditions over time, also evaluating the possibility of obtaining STR (short tandem repeat) profiles and identifying mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) polymorphisms. Blood, semen, saliva samples, and mixtures of these fluids were deposited on polyester clothes and exposed to open‐air tropical weather conditions for 1 month. The test versions from LFI (SERATEC®, Germany) Lab and crime scene (CS) used for the detection – one per each body fluid type – demonstrated that it is possible to identify body fluids and their mixtures up to 14 days after deposition. At 30 days, blood and semen were detected but not saliva. Full STR profiles were obtained from 14‐day‐old blood samples, and partial profiles were obtained from the remaining samples. It was possible to sequence mtDNA in the samples previously analyzed for STR profiling, and haplogroups could be assigned. In conclusion, this study demonstrated for the first time the possibility of body fluid identification and DNA profiling after exposure to tropical weather conditions for 1 month and also demonstrated the value of mtDNA analysis for compromised biological evidence.
Deciphering the role of immune cell composition in epigenetic age acceleration: Insights from cell‐type deconvolution applied to human blood epigenetic clocks
Authors: Zhang Ze , Reynolds Samuel R. , Stolrow Hannah G. , Chen Ji‐Qing , Christensen Brock C. , Salas Lucas A.
Published: December 2023

Aging is a significant risk factor for various human disorders, and DNA methylation clocks have emerged as powerful tools for estimating biological age and predicting health‐related outcomes. Methylation data from blood DNA has been a focus of more recently developed DNA methylation clocks. However, the impact of immune cell composition on epigenetic age acceleration (EAA) remains unclear as only some clocks incorporate partial cell type composition information when analyzing EAA. We investigated associations of 12 immune cell types measured by cell‐type deconvolution with EAA predicted by six widely‐used DNA methylation clocks in data from >10,000 blood samples. We observed significant associations of immune cell composition with EAA for all six clocks tested. Across the clocks, nine or more of the 12 cell types tested exhibited significant associations with EAA. Higher memory lymphocyte subtype proportions were associated with increased EAA, and naïve lymphocyte subtypes were associated with decreased EAA. To demonstrate the potential confounding of EAA by immune cell composition, we applied EAA in rheumatoid arthritis. Our research maps immune cell type contributions to EAA in human blood and offers opportunities to adjust for immune cell composition in EAA studies to a significantly more granular level. Understanding associations of EAA with immune profiles has implications for the interpretation of epigenetic age and its relevance in aging and disease research. Our detailed map of immune cell type contributions serves as a resource for studies utilizing epigenetic clocks across diverse research fields, including aging‐related diseases, precision medicine, and therapeutic interventions.
Genome‐wide association studies for the number of piglets born alive and dead in Dongliao black pigs
Authors: Sun Hao , Cheng Yu , He Yu , Cheng Chao , Zhao Hongxia , Yang Sumei , Wei Meng , Yang Jingxiu , Liang Shuang , Bai Chunyan , Sun Boxing
Published: December 2023

Litter size (total number born) trait has a great impact on the economic success of pork production. The total number born consists of the number of piglets born alive and dead. To clarify the genetic background of litter size, genome‐wide association studies were undertaken in the present study. Samples of DNA were collected and genotyped using the Porcine 50K BeadChip from 723 Dongliao Black sows. Using three different models (BLINK, FarmCPU, and MLM), a total of 155 significant SNPs were discovered, six of which had been reported in previous pig reproduction association studies. We suggest that rs81318434, located in the GLI3 gene, might be the promising candidate affecting litter size trait. Our findings may provide insights for uncovering the genetic mechanisms for the litter size of pigs.
Incidence of glaucoma filtration surgery from disease onset of open‐angle glaucoma
Authors: Virtanen Aapo , Haukka Jari , Loukovaara Sirpa , Harju Mika
Published: December 2023

Aims

To investigate the rate and risk factors of undergoing glaucoma filtration surgery (GFS) in patients with newly diagnosed open‐angle glaucoma (OAG).

Methods

This is a population‐based historic cohort study, consisting of 9420 patients older than 45 years diagnosed with OAG during 1997–2010. Follow‐up spanned from 1997 to 2017. We obtained data for trabeculectomy (TRE), deep sclerectomy (DS), and glaucoma drainage implant (GDI) surgeries from national administrative healthcare registers by hospital billing data. We plotted the cumulative incidence of GFS and carried out a multivariate Poisson regression analysis adjusted for age, sex, hospital district, systemic comorbidities, and the number of IOP‐lowering drugs. We reported incidence rate ratios (IRR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for GFS after the onset of OAG.

Results

The cumulative incidence of GFS at 5 years from OAG onset was 3.1% and at 10 years 5.4%. Age over 80 years at baseline was associated with lower GFS incidence (IRR 0.51, CI 0.31–0.84). The number of IOP‐lowering drugs in the first 2 years of treatment correlated with the risk of GFS increasing from (IRR 3.23, CI 2.32–4.50) for two drugs, (IRR 7.44, CI 5.28–10.47) for three and to (IRR 14.95, CI 10.38–21.52) for four drugs.

Conclusion

This study characterized the treatment path of OAG from diagnosis to surgical intervention refining the role of GFS among glaucoma therapies.
Proactive vitality management, goal attainment, and psychological well‐being among college students: A weekly diary study
Authors: Ren Yue , Wang Huatian , Li Jingru
Published: December 2023

Student well‐being is under renewed scrutiny due to escalating academic stress and mental health concerns among young adults. However, in addition to the measures taken by lecturers, universities, and local governments (top‐down approaches), we still know little about how students themselves can take the proactive strategy to manage their well‐being (bottom‐up approaches). The current study addressed this gap by proposing and examining the beneficial role of proactive vitality management (PVM)—a proactive action aimed at managing physical and mental energy based on personal unique needs and conditions—on student psychological well‐being. We collected data from 97 college students (36% male, age mean = 21) over four consecutive weeks (308 data observations) and tested a multilevel moderated mediation model. Results showed that weekly PVM was positively related to student weekly goal attainment, which, in turn, enhanced the current week's well‐being and the next week's well‐being as well. Further, this positive indirect (carryover) effect of PVM through goal attainment on well‐being was stronger for those who had a high learning orientation. Our results indicated that PVM can be an effective self‐customized strategy to manage college students' weekly well‐being. Theoretical and practical implications were discussed.
Can low‐dose intravenous bevacizumab be as effective as high‐dose bevacizumab for cerebral radiation necrosis?
Authors: Gao Miaomiao , Wang Xin , Wang Xiaofeng , Niu Gengmin , Liu Xiaoye , Zhao Shuzhou , Wang Yue , Yu Huiwen , Huo Siyuan , Su Hui , Song Yongchun , Wang Xiaoguang , Zhuang Hong‐Qing , Yuan Zhi‐Yong
Published: December 2023

Although intravenous bevacizumab (IVBEV) is the most promising treatment for cerebral radiation necrosis (CRN), there is no conclusion on the optimal dosage. Our retrospective study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of high‐dose with low‐dose IVBEV in treating CRN associated with radiotherapy for brain metastases (BMs). This paper describes 75 patients who were diagnosed with CRN secondary to radiotherapy for BMs, treated with low‐dose or high‐dose IVBEV and followed up for a minimum of 6 months. The clinical data collected for this study include changes in brain MRI, clinical symptoms, and corticosteroid usage before, during, and after IVBEV treatment. At the 3‐month mark following administration of IVBEV, a comparison of two groups revealed that the median percentage decreases in CRN volume on T2‐weighted fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery and T1‐weighted gadolinium contrast‐enhanced image (T1CE), as well as the signal ratio reduction on T1CE, were 65.8% versus 64.8% (p = 0.860), 41.2% versus 51.9% (p = 0.396), and 37.4% versus 35.1% (p = 0.271), respectively. Similarly, at 6 months post‐IVBEV, the median percentage reductions of the aforementioned parameters were 59.5% versus 62.0% (p = 0.757), 39.1% versus 31.3% (p = 0.851), and 35.4% versus 28.2% (p = 0.083), respectively. Notably, the incidence of grade ≥3 adverse events was higher in the high‐dose group (n = 4, 9.8%) than in the low‐dose group (n = 0). Among patients with CRN secondary to radiotherapy for BMs, the administration of high‐dose IVBEV did not demonstrate superiority over low‐dose IVBEV. Moreover, the use of high‐dose IVBEV was associated with a higher incidence of grade ≥3 adverse events compared with low‐dose IVBEV.
Results of patch testing 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) in the European baseline series: A 4‐year retrospective study
Authors: Kocabas Gizem , Steunebrink Iemke M. , de Groot Anton , Rustemeyer Thomas
Published: December 2023

Background

2‐Hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) was added to the European baseline series (EBS) in 2019. Few recent data are available on the frequency and relevance of positive reactions to this hapten.

Objectives

To investigate the frequency and relevance of positive patch tests to HEMA in the EBS in a university hospital in Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

Patients and Methods

Retrospective study in patients with positive patch tests to HEMA investigated between June 2019 and August 2023.

Results

Of 2927 consecutive patients, 88 (79 women and 9 men; 3.0%) had a positive reaction to HEMA. The prevalence in women was 3.9%, in men 1.0%. Forty‐three (49%) reactions were judged to be of current clinical relevance and 21 (24%) of past relevance. In this group of 64 patients with relevant reactions, 18 (28%) had occupational contact with (meth)acrylate‐containing products, of who 11 (61%) were nail stylists. In 46 patients with non‐occupational allergic contact dermatitis, 31 (67%) had allergic reactions to nail cosmetics. Glues and glue‐containing products accounted for 22% of the materials causing allergic contact dermatitis and dental products for 8%.

Conclusions

Allergic reactions to HEMA are very frequent in women investigated in Amsterdam. Nearly two thirds of cases were caused by nail cosmetics.
Whole‐body MRI with diffusion‐weighted imaging as an adjunct to18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography and CT in patients with suspected recurrent colorectal cancer
Authors: Willemse Jeroen R. J. , Lahaye Max J. , Kok Niels F. M. , Grotenhuis Brechtje A. , Aalbers Arend G. J. , Beets Geerard L. , Rijsemus Charlotte , Maas Monique , van Golen Larissa W. , Beets‐Tan Regina G. H. , Lambregts Doenja M. J.
Published: December 2023

Aim

The aim was to explore how findings of whole‐body MRI including diffusion‐weighted imaging (DW‐MRI) compared to the routine diagnostic workup with CT and/or 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/CT in patients with suspected recurrent colorectal cancer (CRC).

Method

This was an exploratory retrospective analysis of 55 patients with a clinical suspicion of recurrent CRC who underwent DW‐MRI following CT and/or FDG‐PET/CT. Two readers in consensus interpreted all clinical imaging reports and converted each described lesion into a confidence score (1 = definitely benign to 5 = definitely malignant). DW‐MRI findings were compared to the most recent previous CT or PET/CT. Any discrepant or additional DW‐MRI findings were documented and compared with histology and/or clinical follow‐up (if available).

Results

Whole‐body MRI including diffusion‐weighted imaging (DW‐MRI) resulted in discrepant/additional findings in 26/55 (47%) cases; 23/37 (62%) compared to previous CT and 3/18 (17%) compared to previous PET/CT. These included 10 cases where DW‐MRI converted previously inconclusive CT (n = 8) or PET/CT (n = 2) findings into a conclusive diagnosis, one where it contradicted a previous CT diagnosis of recurrence, five where DW‐MRI diagnosed recurrent disease not previously reported on CT and 10 cases where DW‐MRI detected additional lesions compared to CT (n = 9) or PET/CT (n = 1). Eighty‐eight per cent of cases with discrepant/additional findings concerned patients with recurrent/metachronous peritoneal metastases. In total, DW‐MRI resulted in 42 discrepant/additional lesions; the DW‐MRI diagnosis was correct in 76% of these lesions and incorrect (false positive) in 7%. In the remaining 17%, no standard of reference was available.

Conclusions

This explorative study suggests that DW‐MRI may be of added value to patients with a clinical suspicion for recurrent CRC, in particular to identify patients with peritoneal metastases. DW‐MRI mainly has potential as a ‘problem‐solver’ in patients with inconclusive or negative findings on previous imaging (in particular CT) and to detect additional disease sites in patients already diagnosed with recurrent disease.
The effect of observing multiple private information outcomes on the inclination to cheat
Authors: Casal Sandro , Filippin Antonio
Published: December 2023

We investigate how the inclination to cheat changes when agents report the result of multiple realizations of a (private information) stochastic event rather than a single outcome. Multiple realizations render extreme outcomes unlikely, facilitating the identification of opportunistic behaviors and exposing to reputation concerns the individuals who report them. Consequently, multiple realizations lead to a significant reduction of cheating by large amounts. Simultaneously multiple realizations also diminish the intrinsic cost of lying, thereby inducing a widespread inclination to adjust upward the observed outcome in a plausible manner. The overall effect is only a marginal decrease in the degree of cheating.
Present status, future trends, and control strategies of invasive alien plants in China affected by human activities and climate change
Authors: Qin Fei , Han Bao‐Cai , Bussmann Rainer W. , Xue Tian‐Tian , Liang Yun‐Fen , Zhang Wen‐Di , Liu Qin , Chen Tian‐Xiang , Yu Sheng‐Xiang
Published: December 2023

Invasive alien plants (IAPs) have serious environmental and economic impacts, especially in vulnerable areas of China. However, IAP richness distribution patterns, their driving factors, and the dynamic shifts in potential distribution areas remain elusive. We assessed IAP richness distribution patterns and drivers using 402 IAPs recorded in China at 88 926 occurrence points, and then predicted their potential distribution areas. The results show that IAP hotspots were mainly located in southeastern China, especially coastal areas of the South and East and large inland cities. Population density, gross domestic product (GDP), and four climate variables associated with precipitation and temperature jointly influenced the richness distribution pattern of all IAPs. Specifically, population density and GDP impacted the richness distribution pattern of narrow‐range IAPs, and population density, GDP, distance to the nearest national highway, and five climate variables affected the richness distribution pattern of widespread IAPs. Only GDP contributed significantly to the richness distribution pattern of the top 5% hotspot grid cells, whereas population density, GDP, and precipitation in the driest month (BIO14) significantly influenced the richness distribution patterns of hotspots for both the top 10% and top 20%. Prediction analysis demonstrated that southeastern China would have particularly high invasion risk under both current and future climate scenarios. Regions with increases in predicted species richness are more common (44.83–64.97%) than those with decreases, except under the Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) 4.5 scenario. Climate change will contribute greatly to the expansion of potential IAP distribution areas under both optimistic (RCP 2.5) and pessimistic scenarios (RCP 8.5). The results of this study provide insights into the priority management of IAPs by developing promising strategies for the control and prevention of IAP invasion.
Addressing power in couples therapy: Integrating socio‐emotional relationship therapy and emotionally focused therapy
Authors: Jenks Amanda , Adams Gwen , Young Bonnie , Seedall Ryan
Published: December 2023

Romantic relationships are more satisfying and fulfilling when power is balanced relatively equally between partners (Leonhardt et al., Journal of Family Psychology, 34, 2020, and 1). Yet, few couples therapy models explicitly outline how to confront relational power issues (Knudson‐Martin & Huenergardt, 2015, Socio‐emotional relationship therapy: Bridging emotion, societal context, and couple interaction, Springer). Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT; Johnson, 2020, The practice of emotionally focused couple therapy, Routledge) is a well‐established, evidence‐based therapy modality that many therapists use with couple clients, yet despite its effectiveness, it does not provide direction for explicitly addressing and treating power differentials in couple relationships. In this paper, we explore the integration of EFT with Socio‐emotional Relationship Therapy (SERT), a model overlay that acknowledges the impact of social discourse on enactments of power in intimate couple relationships. We first address the importance of understanding power in couple relationships, addressing power in couples therapy, and provide a brief overview of SERT and EFT. We then introduce an integration of the models intended to help therapists balance power, increase connection, and secure attachment bonds between romantic partners.
The equity of carbon emissions in international trade from the perspective of value added
Authors: Kou Jingwen , Ma Weijing , Li Chengyi , Yang Haijiang , Xue Bing , Gou Xiaohua
Published: December 2023

International trade drives the transboundary transfer of carbon emissions. However, due to the differences in the economic development level and industrial structure of countries, the whole understanding of the inequality exchange between carbon emissions and the value added remains to be illuminated. Here, to uncover the global pattern of this inequality exchange, we construct a multi‐regional input–output model (MRIO) and inequality exchange index (IEI) from 1991 to 2016, to carry out macro path research with the goal of achieving global carbon neutrality. The results show that: (1) The carbon emissions per unit of value added through trade have declined in most countries, and the decline rate of developing countries was faster than that of developed ones. (2) In general, the developed countries were in an advantageous position in the value added and carbon emission exchange, while the developing countries were in a disadvantageous position. (3) Six sectors – agriculture, forestry, and animal husbandry; electrical and machinery; electricity, gas, and water; petroleum, chemical, and N‐metallic mineral products; transport; and financial intermediation and business activities – accounted for more than half of the carbon emissions of global trade, but with the advancement of energy conservation and emission‐reduction measures, carbon emissions have decreased to varying degrees. (4) From a global perspective, promoting cooperation on carbon reduction technologies from developed countries to developing ones might be a key and effective way to achieve global carbon reduction. The study aims to provide new insights into the formulation of global carbon neutrality and carbon emission responsibility‐sharing policies.
Classic Scottish sandstone concretions formed from hot water
Authors: Hudson John D. , Paxton Richmal B. , Andrews Julian E. , Dennis Paul F. , Marca Alina D.
Published: December 2023

Large calcite‐cemented sandstone concretions found in Middle Jurassic sandstones from the isles of Eigg and Skye are a striking feature of the Jurassic geology of the Inner Hebrides. Recent clumped isotope data unequivocally give concretionary calcite cementation temperatures above 50°C and up to 98°C. The high temperatures contrast with the mild thermal history of the enclosing less permeable Jurassic mudrocks. The clumped isotope data also enable calculation of the oxygen isotopic composition of the precipitating fluids: these included percolating rainwater that had interacted with Paleocene volcanics; then, later hot fluids of deeper, basinal origin, squeezed out of compacting mudrocks at depth as the Paleocene lava pile loaded the crust. There is thus direct connection between ‘Jurassic’ sedimentary features and the complex Paleocene volcanic history of the region.
The workplace as a site of abortion surveillance
Authors: Bloomer Fiona , Mackle Danielle , MacNamara Nóirín , Pierson Claire , Bloomer Stephen
Published: December 2023

Analysis of the experiences and resulting inequalities in reproductive health in the workplace has generated studies of pregnancy, miscarriage, menstruation, fertility and menopause. One issue that has remained outside of this literature is abortion. How abortion is talked about (or not talked about), experienced and perceived as a workplace issue were the central questions in our research undertaken in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland in 2017. Our study comprised a survey (3180 respondents) followed by a series of online focus groups (61 participants) with trade union members from a broad range of workplaces, with the aim of investigating how abortion was positioned in workplaces within legally restrictive regimes. We conceptualize how self‐disciplining, silence and abortion stigma are reproduced in workplaces, drawing on a feminist Foucauldian framework to examine disciplinary power. We examine evidence of how, in conservative societies, abortion talk is suppressed, and we generate new theoretical knowledge on how disciplinary power undermines resistance to anti‐abortion norms and demonstrate the function of the normalizing gaze in the workplace. We conclude by offering avenues for future research on abortion stigma and disciplinary power, to extend further knowledge and conceptual framing of abortion as a workplace issue.