bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forecasting extreme risk using regime-switching GARCH models: a case from an energy commodity
Authors: Xiao Yang
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate regime-switching and single-regime GARCH models for the extreme risk forecast of the developed and the emerging crude oil markets.

Design/methodology/approach

The regime-switching GARCH-type models and their single-regime counterparts are used in risk forecast of crude oil.

Findings

The author finds that the regime-switching GARCH-type models are suitable for the developed and the emerging crude oil markets in that they effectively measure the extreme risk of crude oil in different cases. Meanwhile, the model with switching regimes captures dynamic structures in financial markets, and these models are just only better than the corresponding single-regime in terms of long position risk forecast, instead of short position. That is, it just outperforms the single-regime on the downside risk forecast.

Originality/value

This study comprehensively compares risk forecast of crude oil in different situations through the competitive models. The obtained findings have strong implications to investors and policymakers for selecting a suitable model to forecast extreme risk of crude oil when they are faced with portfolio selection, asset allocation and risk management.
Strengthening city–university partnerships to advance sustainability solutions: a study of research collaborations between the University of British Columbia and City of Vancouver
Authors: Pauer Stefan U. , Pilon Angelique , Badelt Brad
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate sustainability research collaborations between the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia (UBC), as a case study to better understand how to use city–university partnerships to advance effective urban sustainability policy and practices. The study compiles a basic inventory of partnerships since 2010, describes their benefits, areas for improvement, barriers to collaboration and proposes ways to increase and improve future collaborations.

Design/methodology/approach

The study draws on an electronic survey completed by 58 individuals and interviews with 13 such participants who were faculty members and staff at UBC and Vancouver.

Findings

Most collaborations responded to climate change in some way, were initiated through informal professional relationships and involved single departments in each organization. Projects ranged in size, duration and level of municipal funding. Although project participants were generally happy with past experiences, future collaborations could be improved by increasing leadership commitment and resources and producing more mutually beneficial outcomes. Barriers included lacking awareness of potential partners, difficulty aligning municipal needs with academic research interests and divergent expectations about project resources. The study recommends introducing formal processes to help identify overlapping interests and opportunities, enhance co-creation of projects and increase leadership and resources.

Practical implications

The findings may inform the development and implementation of future city–university partnerships to advance sustainable policies and practices in urban areas.

Originality/value

This paper contributes by reviewing experiences with city–university collaborations and offering evidence-based recommendations to improve them, thereby increasing opportunities for more effective urban sustainability solutions.
Safety climate and employees' voluntary work behaviours: the moderating role of employees' voice
Authors: Amponsah-Tawiah Kwesi , Boateng Akosua Konadu , Tetteh Samuel Doku
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This study examined the relationship between safety climate and employees' voluntary work behaviours (i.e. organisational citizenship behaviour and counterproductive work behaviour). It also examined the moderating role of employees' voice on the relationship between safety climate and employees' voluntary work behaviours.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the quantitative survey research design, data were collected from 220 respondents from three manufacturing companies in Accra, Ghana. Pearson's correlation test (r) and hierarchical multiple regression were used for data analysis.

Findings

Results showed that safety climate plays a significant role in predicting employees' voluntary work behaviours. Also, employees' voice was found to moderate the relationship between safety climate and organisational citizenship behaviour but does not moderate the relationship between safety climate and counterproductive work behaviour.

Research limitations/implications

Data was collected from manufacturing firms in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana; hence, the findings may be limited to just the manufacturing industry in the Ghanaian setting.

Originality/value

This paper positions safety climate as a catalyst for positive voluntary work behaviours in the workplace and an antidote to negative workplace behaviours. It also highlights the role of employees' voice in enhancing positive voluntary workplace behaviours of employees.
Understanding fintech continuance: perspectives from self-efficacy and ECT-IS theories
Authors: Shiau Wen-Lung , Yuan Ye , Pu Xiaodie , Ray Soumya , Chen Charlie C.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to clarify theory and identify factors that could explain the level of fintech continuance intentions with an expectation confirmation model that integrates self-efficacy theory.

Design/methodology/approach

With data collected from 753 fintech users, this study applies partial least square structural equation modeling to compare and select the research model with the most predictive power.

Findings

The results show that financial self-efficacy, technological self-efficacy and confirmation positively affect perceived usefulness. Among these factors, financial self-efficacy and technological self-efficacy have both direct and indirect effects through confirmation on perceived usefulness. Perceived usefulness and confirmation are positively related to satisfaction. Finally, perceived usefulness and satisfaction positively influence fintech continuance intentions.

Originality/value

To the best of our knowledge, this is one of the earliest studies that investigates the effect of domain-specific self-efficacy on fintech continuance intentions, which enriches the existing research on fintech and deepens our understanding of users' fintech continuance intentions. We distinguish between financial self-efficacy and technological self-efficacy and specify the relationship between self-efficacy and continuance intentions. Moreover, this study highlights the importance of assessing a model's predictive power using the PLSpredict technique and provides a reference for model selection.
Istisna’abased monetary policy and its effectiveness in achieving full employment and price stability
Authors: Selim Mohammad
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to exploreIstisna’aas a tool of monetary policy (MP) and examines its effectiveness in achieving full employment income and price stability.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper usesIstisna’aas a tool of MP and examines its effects on key macroeconomic variables on purely theoretical ground. The effectiveness and the impact ofIstisna’a-based MP is examined by using aggregate output and aggregate expenditure model, embedded with Islamic economic principles, including zakat function.

Findings

Istisna’a-based MP immediately creates well paid jobs, positively contributes and expands the size of the manufacturing sector, increases capital per person employed, labor productivity and thus increases output, employment and promotes industrialization. Increase in the size of manufacturing sector will not only increase manufactured value-added exports but also cut high valued manufactured imports and thus increases positive trade balance and eventually reduces trade deficits. Increase in labor productivity will improve the standard of living, and eventually the economy will yield sustainable high growth rates, full employment and prosperity.

Originality/value

This is probably one of the first attempt to systematically develop theIstisna’a-based MP with detailed MP transmission mechanism. This new contribution in the field of Islamic MP will unveil the horizon of sustainable economic growth, creation of well paid jobs, expansion of manufacturing sector, rapid industrialization and the increase in capital per person employed across the economy, and eventuallyIstisna’a-based MP will be one of the most effective tool of MP for transforming an economy into a relatively higher and sophisticated stages which will eventually promote sustainable development.
Impact of Islamic banking share on financial inclusion: evidence from MENA
Authors: Khmous Duha Farouq , Besim Mustafa
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This study aims to investigate how the Islamic banking share (percentage of total Islamic banking assets relative to total banking sector assets) and individual characteristics (gender, age, income and education) affect financial inclusion in 14 Middle Eastern and North African (MENA) countries with different income levels.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses data from the 2014 World Bank Global Findex database to analyze the impact of individual characteristics, Islamic banking share and countries’ developmental levels on financial inclusion and its barriers in MENA countries. The probit estimation method is used for estimations.

Findings

The findings indicate that financial inclusion, particularly in middle-income MENA countries, is lower than the global average. While being male, rich and older positively affects financial inclusion in these countries, education does not. Islamic banking practises also contribute to financial inclusion, especially for individuals with strong religious affiliations. The effect of Islamic banking on financial inclusion is found to be greater in middle-income MENA countries.

Practical implications

Islamic banking institutions could play a greater role in promoting financial inclusion in the MENA region by offering Sharia-compliant products that meet individuals’ needs, matching the specific requirements and status of each country with affordable costs and offering adequate information to customers. Governments should promote more Islamic banking and incentivise investments in technology, which helps expand financial inclusion.

Originality/value

This is the first study to examine the influence of Islamic banking share and countries’ levels of development on financial inclusion in the MENA region.
Corporate governance mechanism and the ratings of Islamic and conventional mutual funds: Evidence from Pakistan
Authors: Naveed Farrukh , Khurshid Muhammad Kashif , Saqib Shahnawaz
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This study aims to analyze the impact of different governance characteristics on the ratings of both Islamic and conventional mutual funds.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used panel data ordered probit regression model. Furthermore, to capture the mutual funds rating persistence effect and address the issue of endogeneity dynamic panel model is used and the results are estimated using the generalized method of the moment (GMM) technique.

Findings

The results indicated that amongst the corporate governance characteristics, board size, the board independence, directors and institutional ownership, and overall governance quality positively affect the ratings of both Islamic and conventional funds. However, chief executive officer (CEO) duality and board gender diversity did not show a significant impact on the ratings of these funds.

Practical implications

The current research provides input to the asset management firms as to how they can increase the fund ratings by implementing strong governance practises. Furthermore, the study also provides input to the rating agencies to account for governance characteristics along with financial indicators, when issuing the rating of any fund.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this study is the first attempt to analyze the impact of corporate governance characteristics on the rating of both Islamic and conventional mutual funds and hence provides a significant contribution to the literature.
Promoting consumer loyalty and resilience to negative information through brand identity sub-components: an empirical investigation in the luxury electronics goods
Authors: Zarei Azim , Feiz Davood , Moradi Hadi
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The strategic importance of brand identity management has been emphasized in the brand management literature, but studies that examine brand identity sub-components effects on customer resilience to negative information are very few. In this regard, this study aims to examine the effect of brand distinctiveness and prestige as sub-components of identity on young customers’ loyalty and resilience to negative information through the mediating variable of brand attractiveness in the luxury electronics market.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a structured questionnaire, data were collected. Based on a five-point Likert scale were asked of consumers and owners of electronic products (mobile phone, tablet and laptop) to indicate their level of disagreement and agreement with series of statements. After an analytic process, 422 valid questionnaires were obtained. The hypotheses were tested by using structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results showed that brand prestige and distinctiveness have direct effect on brand attractiveness, which prestige had more influence than distinctiveness. The results indicated that brand loyalty was strongly affected by direct brand attractiveness, and that the effect of brand attractiveness on the resilience to negative information was not significant. Finally, the study results showed that resilience to negative information is affected by brand loyalty.

Originality/value

This study is significant because it is one of the few studies that examines the effect of brand identity on brand attractiveness and consumers’ extra-role behavior, which results in the development of branding literature in the field of luxury products.
Concentration of iodine in iodized salt and estimation in school meals in a region of northeast Brazil
Authors: Souza Raylane Oliveira , Santos Ana Beatriz Moura , Soares Fabiana Melo , Santos Fabrine Texeira , Cavalcante Rafael Ciro Marques , Nascimento Bárbara Melo Santos do , Rocha Vivianne de Sousa
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Improper levels or excess of iodine may present a greater risk to health, for this reason, this paper aims to assess the iodine content present in salt and estimate the iodine concentration in school meals in a Brazilian northeast region.

Design/methodology/approach

Six samples of different salt brands sold in the city of Lagarto, Sergipe, Brazil were gathered for analyzing iodate concentration. The amounts of salt added to meals of four schools in the city and the weight of the provided meals were recorded during two consecutive days of gathering, thus obtaining data to estimate the iodine content of these meals. The rest of the meals and the nutritional composition of school meals were analyzed. A questionnaire for participants on the perception of salt was applied. For data analysis, α = 5% was used.

Findings

The iodine concentration in all salt samples followed legislation (15 to 45 mg of iodine/kg of salt), with the average of iodine ranged between 26.5 ± 1.29 and 33.9 ± 2.49 mg/kg (p < 0.001). The estimated iodine content in consumed school meals was 0.025 mg (25 µg), in meals of schools A and C, it was 0.03 ± 0.02 mg, and to schools B and D, it was 0.02 ± 0.01 mg (p < 0.001). Percentages of rest of the meals greater than 10% were found and the assessed food preparation showed low caloric and nutritional values.

Originality/value

The iodine content is in accordance with the salt iodization policy in Brazil, and that the average iodine estimate in school meals was considered adequate for this population.
Affordable education with a little help from the library
Authors: Sotak Diane , Scott Jane G. , Griffin Tillia R.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the design, creation and outcome of a pilot project to provide additional course reserve materials to students. The goals of the project include off-setting the rising costs of higher education and providing equitable access to materials.

Design/methodology/approach

This case study describes the process of library staff co-creating a workflow to efficiently identify, order and process print and electronic books for 100 and 200 level courses at a small, private university. The project was influenced by an exploration of library services in the context of library ethics. The authors evaluate the impact of the project and determine continued need after a two-year pilot.

Findings

This paper demonstrates the usefulness of the course reserves service in providing accessible and cost-effective resources. Increased usage of course reserve materials by students, along with a reduction in money spent over time by the library to support the service, has resulted in a program that is deemed viable to continue and potentially expand.

Social implications

This paper seeks to address the added challenges often placed on low-income college students in accessing, paying for and using assigned course materials. Libraries can use course reserves to enhance student success by providing them with an alternate to purchasing course materials.

Originality/value

The project addresses constraints of cost, staff time and cross-departmental workflows in managing a course reserves program at a small university and provides a template for other libraries to use.
Navigating support models for OER publishing: case studies from the University of Houston and the University of Washington
Authors: Santiago Ariana , Ray Lauren
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe programs that support open educational resources (OER) publishing in academic libraries. Insights, opportunities and challenges are shared in relation to the broader open education movement.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper provides two case studies describing the development of OER publishing programs at large, public research universities – the University of Houston and the University of Washington. Each program takes an Author DIY approach to publishing support and is in the early years of supporting OER adoption and creation.

Findings

These case studies demonstrate the need for a greater focus on decision-making and workflows. They illuminate challenges and opportunities for librarians supporting OER initiatives, including adapting existing models of OER publishing, navigating institutional culture, moving OER programs beyond affordability and how to sustain and scale OER programs with shifting institutional support.

Originality/value

OER is an emerging program area within academic libraries, and much of the focus has been on outreach and advocacy around affordable alternatives to commercial textbooks. Little has been written about programmatic initiatives to support OER publishing. This paper adds unique examples to the OER literature and raises new questions around support for OER publishing.
Internet Use, Sustainable Agricultural Practices and Rural Incomes: Evidence from China
Authors: Ma Wanglin , Wang Xiaobing
Published: July 2020

Relatively little is known about the association between Internet use and environmentally‐friendly agricultural innovation adoption. To fill this void, this study examines the impact of Internet use on the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices (SAPs) and their heterogeneous effects on farm income and household income. Unlike previous studies that analyse the dichotomous decision of agricultural innovation adoption, this study captures the number of SAPs adopted. We apply both endogenous‐treatment Poisson regression model and unconditional quantile regression model to analyse unique farm‐level data collected from China. The empirical results show that Internet use exerts a positive and statistically significant impact on the number of SAPs adopted, and the joint effects of Internet use and SAP adoption on farm income and household income are heterogeneous. In particular, we show that Internet use has a larger impact at the upper tail of household income but it has no significant impact on farm income. SAP adoption is negatively associated with farm income and household income across the selected quantiles.
Parental Ethnic Identity and Child Test Scores*
Authors: Campbell Stuart , Nuevo‐Chiquero Ana , Popli Gurleen , Ratcliffe Anita
Published: July 2020

We examine the relationship between parental ethnic identity and the test scores of ethnic minority children. We use standard survey measures of the strength of parental identity alongside validated cognitive test scores in a rich British cohort study. We show that children whose mothers report either an adoption or an active rejection of the majority identity tend to score lower in cognitive tests at age 7, compared with those children whose mothers report neutral feelings about the majority identity. We find no consistent differences in test scores according to mothers’ minority identity. Our findings provide no support for education or citizenship policies that promote the adoption of the majority identity or discourage the maintenance of separate identities in ethnic minority communities.
What makes starch from potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) tubers unique: A review
Authors: Reyniers Stijn , Ooms Nand , Gomand Sara V. , Delcour Jan A.
Published: July 2020

The use of starch in food systems in many instances relies on its thickening and gelling capacity. When native starches fail to match process and/or product‐specific requirements, starches are physically and/or chemically modified to meet end‐use demands. Evidently, differences between starches of varying botanical origin have to be considered when selecting or modifying starches for particular applications. Potato starch (PS) ranks third in world production after maize and wheat starches. Its unique properties differ from those of cereal and pulse starches and are directly related to its molecular structure and organization. This review summarizes the differences between PS and cereal and pulse starches and how they set it apart in terms of gelatinization, pasting, gelation, and retrogradation. Recent advances in improving PS pasting and gelation using enzyme technology and mineral ions are also described.
Physicochemical characteristics, bioactive compounds and industrial applications of mango kernel and its products: A review
Authors: Mwaurah Peter Waboi , Kumar Sunil , Kumar Nitin , Panghal Anil , Attkan Arun Kumar , Singh Vijay Kumar , Garg Mukesh Kumar
Published: July 2020

Mango (Mangifera indica L.) is a fruit plant of family Anacardiaceae, widely grown all over the world, and is a very popular fruit in the world market. Mango fruit is the second most traded tropical fruit and fifth in terms of production globally. Large quantities of mango processing coproducts are generated (peels and seeds), which usually are discarded as waste, yet are a potential source of fat, protein, carbohydrate, and certain bioactive compounds. Mango kernel is a remarkably rich source of macronutrients and micronutrients including calcium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, and vitamins A, E, K, and C. Phytochemicals with a notable therapeutic potential such as tocopherols, phytosterols, carotenoids, polyphenols (gallotannins, flavonols, benzophenone derivatives, mangiferin, homomangiferin, isomangiferin, anthocyanins, kaempferol, and quercetin), and phenolic acids (4‐caffeoylquinic acids, caffeic, coumaric, ellagic, gallic, and ferulic acid) are reported. The phytochemicals have high antioxidant, antimicrobial, anticancer, and, antiproliferation activities and could be used for food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical applications. The nutritional composition of mango kernel constitutes 32.34% to 76.81% carbohydrate, 6% to 15.2% fat, 6.36% to 10.02% protein, 0.26% to 4.69% crude fiber, and 1.46% to 3.71% ash on a dry weight basis. The nutritional profile of the kernel suggests its usability as a food ingredient in the development of value‐added products such as mango kernel oil, mango kernel butter, mango kernel flour, and biofilms among other diverse products. This comprehensive systematic review explores mango kernel as a potential and novel food ingredient to meet the needs of a health‐conscious population. The review also provides a remedy to waste management and environmental pollution.
Refined diagnostic criteria for the bipolar disorders: phase two of the AREDOC project
Authors: Parker G. , Tavella G. , Ricciardi T. , Hadzi‐Pavlovic D. , Alda M. , Hajek T. , Dunner D. L. , O'Donovan C. , Rybakowski J. K. , Goldberg J. F. , Bayes A. , Sharma V. , Boyce P. , Manicavasagar V.
Published: July 2020

Objective

As limitations exist across DSM criteria sets for defining and differentiating the bipolar disorders generally and their component bipolar I (BP‐1) and bipolar II (BP‐II) sub‐types, we sought to generate empirically based criteria.

Method

We formed an international Task Force (TF) comprising members with bipolar disorder expertise, and who recruited 74 patients with a TF‐diagnosed bipolar I and 104 with a bipolar II condition (with patients responding to definitional queries and symptom questionnaires), while 33 unipolar depressed patients recruited by the first author also completed the symptom questionnaire. A factor analysis sought to determine granular hypo/manic constructs.

Results

The bipolar disorder subjects strongly affirmed a new general definition of a bipolar disorder (capturing both manic and hypomanic episodes). While DSM‐5 requires impaired functioning, we established that a high percentage of individuals with a BP‐I or a BP‐II disorder reported improved functioning and therefore modified this criterion. Analyses identified syptoms with differential high rates in individuals with bipolar disorder and its sub‐types (and thus not simply capturing happiness), while a factor analysis generated seven symptom constructs both linked with and differing from DSM‐5 bipolar symptom criteria.

Conclusion

This second‐stage report details a new set of criteria for differentiating the bipolar disorders from unipolar depressive conditions, while arguing for BP‐I and BP‐II disorders being differentiated principally by the respective presence or absence of psychotic features. Future studies will evaluate whether further modifications are required and examine for differential treatment benefits for those with a BP‐I versus a BP‐II condition.
Long‐term mammal and nocturnal bird trends are influenced by vegetation type, weather and climate in temperate woodlands
Authors: Lindenmayer David B. , Lane Peter , Westgate Martin J. , Scheele Ben C. , Crane Mason , Florance Daniel , Crane Clare , Smith David
Published: July 2020

Many studies have documented the individual effects of variables such as vegetation, long‐term climate and short‐term weather on biodiversity. Few, however, have explicitly explored how interactions among these major drivers can influence species abundance. We used data from a 15‐year study (2002–2017) in the endangered temperate woodlands of south‐eastern Australia to test hypotheses associated with the effects of vegetation type, long‐term climate and short‐term weather on population trajectories of seven species of (largely) nocturnal mammals and birds. Despite prolonged drought conditions, there was a significant increase in the abundance of some species over time (e.g. the Eastern Grey Kangaroo). It is possible that destocking of domestic livestock may have reduced competition with Kangaroos, thereby facilitating increases in abundance. The Common Brushtail Possum and Common Ringtail Possum were significantly less likely to occur in replanted woodlands, possibly because of the paucity of nesting sites. We found no evidence that replanted woodlands are refuges for exotic pest species like the European Rabbit and Red Fox. Short‐ and long‐term rainfall and vegetation type had important independent and combined effects on animal abundance. That is, responses to periods of high short‐term rainfall were dependent on vegetation type and whether sites occurred in long‐term climatically wet versus climatically dry locations. For example, the Red Fox responded positively to high levels of short‐term rainfall, but only at climatically dry sites. Our results highlight the complementary value of different vegetation types across the landscape and the context‐specific responses of animals to short‐term fluctuations in moisture availability. They also underscore the value of long‐term monitoring at a landscape scale for examining how multiple interacting factors influence trends in animal abundance.
Exome analysis and functional classification of identified variants in racing Quarter Horses
Authors: Curi R. A. , Pereira G. L. , Alvarez M. V. N. , Baldassini W. A. , Machado Neto O. R. , Chardulo L. A. L.
Published: July 2020

The main objectives of this study were to identify and functionally classify SNPs and indels by exome sequencing of animals of the racing line of Quarter Horses. Based on the individual genomic estimated breeding values (GEBVs) for maximum speed index (SImax) obtained for 349 animals, two groups of 20 extreme animals were formed. Of these individuals, 20 animals with high GEBVs for SImax and 19 with low GEBVs for SImax had their exons and 5′ and 3′ UTRs sequenced. Considering SNPs and indels, 105 182 variants were identified in the expressed regions of the Quarter Horse genome. Of these, 72 166 variants were already known and 33 016 are new variants and were deposited in a database. The analysis of the set of gene variants significantly related (Padjusted < 0.05) to extreme animals in conjunction with the predicted impact of the changes and the physiological role of protein product pointed to two candidate genes potentially related to racing performance:SLC3A1on ECA15 andCCN6on ECA10.
Winds of Trade: Passage to Zero‐Emission Shipping
Authors: Cutcher Nicola
Published: July 2020

The shipping industry needs to decarbonize over the coming decades, but there are competing visions about how that will happen. While major shipping companies are looking to potential new fuels, including ammonia, other disruptors are already shipping small quantities of boutique goods, emission free, on sailboats harnessing the power of the wind. They are a reminder that all global trade used to travel by sail. Can wind propel us back to the future? There is a role for wind power in shipping as both a primary means of propulsion and a way to provide wind assistance to reduce a vessel’s fuel use. This article examines the possibilities and challenges for wind‐based sea transport.
What Makes a Good Cargo Bike Route? Perspectives from Users and Planners
Authors: Liu George , Nello‐Deakin Samuel , te Brömmelstroet Marco , Yamamoto Yuki
Published: July 2020

Cargo bikes—bicycles made to carry both goods and people—are becoming increasingly common as an alternative to automobiles in urban areas. With a wider and heavier body, cargo bikes often face problems even in the presence of cycling infrastructure, thus limiting their possibilities of route choice. Infrastructure quality and the route choices of cyclists have been well studied, but often solely based on a quantitative approach, leading to tools such as BLOS (bicycle level of service). With various designs of cargo bikes being used for a wide range of purposes, the route choice of cargo bike users is difficult to generalize. This study combines quantitative and qualitative approaches in order to explore what is important for cargo bike users’ route choice, and how this knowledge can be effectively used for planning. Our results suggest that while some general preferences exist, route choice involves complex dynamics that cannot be fully explained by quantitative measures alone: in addition to understanding “what” is important for cargo bike users, we need to understand “why” it is important. Furthermore, route choice is also influenced by the city context, making a study tailored to the local context essential.
Probing expert opinions on the future of kidney replacement therapies
Authors: Pereira Cabral Bernardo , Bonventre Joseph V. , Wieringa Fokko , Mota Fabio Batista
Published: July 2020

Patients with kidney failure can only survive with some form of kidney replacement (transplant or dialysis). Unfortunately, innovations in kidney replacement therapy lag behind many other medical fields. This study compiles expert opinions on candidate technologies for future kidney replacement therapies. A worldwide web‐based survey was conducted with 1566 responding experts, identified from scientific publications on kidney (renal) replacement therapy, indexed in the Web of Science Core Collection (period 2014‐2019). Candidate innovative approaches were categorized in line with the Kidney Health Initiative roadmap for innovative kidney replacement therapies. Most respondents expected a revolution in kidney replacement therapies: 68.59% before 2040 and 24.85% after 2040, while 6.56% expected none. Approaches anticipated as most likely were implantable artificial kidneys (38.6%) and wearable artificial kidneys (32.4%). A majority of experts expect that kidney replacement therapies can be significantly improved by innovative technologies.
The absorbing filter Oxiris in severe coronavirus disease 2019 patients: A case series
Authors: Zhang Hongtao , Zhu Guizhen , Yan Lei , Lu Yang , Fang Qiying , Shao Fengmin
Published: July 2020

Hypercytokines cause acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) patients, which is the main reason for intensive care unit treatment and the leading cause of death in COVID‐19 patients. Cytokine storm is a critical factor in the development of ARDS. This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of Oxiris filter in the treatment of COVID‐19 patients. Five patients with COVID‐19 who received continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) in Henan provincial people's hospital between January 23, 2019 and March 28, 2020, were enrolled in this study. Heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP), oxygenation index (PaO2/FiO2), renal function, C‐reactive protein (CRP), cytokines, procalcitonin (PCT), acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II (APACHE II), sequential organ failure score (SOFA), and prognosis were compared after CRRT. Five COVID‐19 patients, three males and two females, aged 70.2 ± 19.6 years, were enrolled. After treatment, HR (101.4 ± 14.08 vs. 83.8 ± 6.22 bpm/min), CRP (183 ± 25.21 vs. 93.78 ± 70.81 mg/L), IL‐6 (3234.49 (713.51, 16038.36) vs. 181.29 (82.24, 521.39) pg/mL), IL‐8 (154.86 (63.97, 1476.1) vs. 67.19 (27.84, 85.57) pg/mL), and IL‐10 (17.43 (9.14, 41.22) vs. 4.97 (2.39, 8.70) pg/mL), APACHE II (29 ± 4.92 vs. 18.4 ± 2.07), and SOFA (17.2 ± 1.92 vs. 11.2 ± 3.4) significantly decreased (P < .05), while MAP (75.8 ± 4.92 vs. 85.8 ± 6.18 mm Hg), and PaO2/FiO2 (101.2 ± 7.49 vs. 132.6 ± 26.15 mm Hg) significantly increased (P < .05). Among the five patients, negative conversion of nucleic acid test was found in three cases, while two cases died. No adverse events occurred during the treatment. Our study observed a reduced level of overexpressed cytokines, stabilization of hemodynamic status, and staged improvement of organ function during the treatment with Oxiris filter.
Systematic review with meta‐analysis: limited benefits from early colonoscopy in acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding
Authors: Kherad Omar , Restellini Sophie , Almadi Majid , Strate Lisa L. , Ménard Charles , Martel Myriam , Roshan Afshar Ira , Sadr Mohamad Seyed , Barkun Alan N.
Published: July 2020

Background

The optimal timing of colonoscopy in acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) remains controversial.

Aim

To characterise the utility of early colonoscopy (within 24 hours) in managing acute LGIB.

Methods

A systematic literature search to October 2019 identified fully published articles and abstracts of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies with control groups assessing early colonoscopy in acute LGIB. The primary outcome was rebleeding. Secondary outcomes included mortality, surgery, length of stay (LOS), definite cause of bleeding and adverse events. Odds ratios (ORs) and mean differences (MD) were calculated.

Results

Of 1116 citations, 4 RCTs (466 patients) and 13 observational studies with elective colonoscopy (>24 hours) as control group (1 061 281 patients) were included. No differences in rebleeding were noted between early and elective colonoscopy groups among RCTs alone (OR = 1.70; 0.79; 3.64), or observational studies alone (OR = 1.20; 0.69; 2.09). No other significant between‐group differences in outcomes were found when restricting the analysis to RCTs. Among observational studies only, early colonoscopy was associated with lower rates of all‐cause mortality (OR = 0.86; 0.75; 0.98), surgery (OR = 0.52; 0.42; 0.64), blood transfusion (OR = 0.81; 0.75; 0.87), units of blood transfusion (MD = −4.30; −6.24; −2.36) and shorter LOS (MD = −1.70; −1.70; −1.70 days).

Conclusion

In contradistinction to observational studies, data from RCTs do not support a role for early colonoscopy in the routine management of acute LGIB with regards to the most important clinical outcomes. Further research is needed to better identify patients with high‐risk LGIB who may benefit from early colonoscopy.
Association between steatohepatitis biomarkers and hepatocellular carcinoma after hepatitis C elimination
Authors: Ogawa Eiichi , Takayama Koji , Hiramine Satoshi , Hayashi Takeo , Toyoda Kazuhiro
Published: July 2020

Background

A strong association between chronic hepatitis C (CHC) and hepatic steatosis has been reported. However, the influence of steatohepatitis on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after hepatitis C virus (HCV) elimination remains unclear.

Aim

To evaluate the development of HCC after HCV cure using a new steatohepatitis‐related biomarker.

Methods

This cohort study analysed the prospective database of 290 CHC patients without a history of HCC who achieved HCV elimination by direct‐acting antivirals. We calculated the FibroScan‐aspartate aminotransferase (FAST) score 12 weeks after the end of treatment (pw12). The risk of HCC was analysed using the multivariable Cox proportional hazard model.

Results

HCV genotype (GT)1 was most prevalent at 72.4%, followed by GT2 (26.6%). Median follow‐up period was 4.2 years (IQR 3.1‐4.5). The cumulative HCC incidence for a FAST score ≥ 0.35 was significantly higher than that for a FAST score < 0.35 (log‐rank test: P < 0.001). The annual HCC incidence rate for a FAST score ≥ 0.35 was significantly higher than that for a FAST score < 0.35, in patients with liver stiffness measurement (LSM) ≥10 kPa (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 4.41, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.30‐15.0, P = 0.018). After adjusting for variables, including age, albumin, alpha‐fetoprotein, the patatin‐like phospholipase domain‐containing the 3 (PNPLA3) rs738409 genotype, and pw12 fibrosis markers with FIB‐4, non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease fibrosis score, and LSM, FAST score ≥ 0.35 was associated with the development of HCC (adjusted HR 4.42, 95% CI 1.02‐19.9, P = 0.043).

Conclusions

Steatohepatitis‐related biomarkers with the FAST score are helpful for predicting the development of HCC after HCV elimination.
Effects of crude protein and lactose levels in diets on growth performance, intestinal morphology, and expression of genes related to intestinal integrity and immune system in weaned piglets
Authors: Soares Marcos H. , Rodrigues Gustavo A. , Barbosa Lívia M. R. , Valente Júnior Dante T. , Santos Felipe C. , Rocha Gabriel C. , Campos Paulo H. R. F. , Saraiva Alysson
Published: July 2020

To evaluate the effects of crude protein (CP) and lactose (LAC) for weaned piglets on performance, intestinal morphology, and expression of genes related to intestinal integrity and immune system, 144 piglets with initial weight 7.17 ± 0.97 kg were allotted in a randomized design, in a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement (20.0% and 24.0% CP and 8.0%, 12.0%, and 16.0% LAC) with eight replicates. Piglets fed 20.0% CP had greater weight gain and feed intake. Including 12.0% LAC in the 20.0% CP diet provided higher villous height in the duodenum than 8.0% LAC, and 12.0% or 16.0% LAC in the 24.0% CP diet resulted in higher villous height in the jejunum and ileum, and higher villi/crypt ratio in the ileum than 8.0% LAC. No effects of CP and LAC on interleukin‐1β and tumor necrosis factor‐α mRNA were observed. The 16.0% LAC diet provided higher gene expression of transforming‐β1 growth factor. Feeding 20.0% CP resulted in better performance than 24.0% CP. The 12.0% LAC diet promoted greater genetic expression of occludin and zonula occludens. Including 12.0% LAC in the diet may improve intestinal epithelial morphology and integrity, and these improvements are more evident when piglets are fed diets with 24.0% CP.
Assessment of drug–drug interaction in an elderly human immunodeficiency virus population: Comparison of 3 expert databases
Authors: Ruellan Anne‐Lise , Bourneau‐Martin Delphine , Joyau Caroline , Secher Solène , Fialaire Pascale , Hitoto Hikombo , Leautez Sophie , Michau Christophe , Vatan Rémi , Billaud Eric , Briet Marie , Jolliet Pascale , Raffi François , Allavena Clotilde
Published: July 2020

Aims

Polypharmacy increase the risk of drug–drug interactions (DDIs) in the elderly population living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Several expert databases can be used to evaluate DDIs. The aim of the study was to describe actual DDIs between antiretroviral drugs and comedications in an elderly population and to compare grading of the DDIs in 3 databases.

Methods

All treatments of HIV‐infected subjects aged 65 years and older were collected in 6 French HIV centres. Summary of Product Characteristic (SPC), French DDI Thesaurus (THES), and Liverpool HIV DDI website (LIV) were used to define each DDI and specific grade. DDIs were classified in yellow flag interaction (undefined grade in SPC and THES or potential weak interaction in LIV), amber flag interaction (to be considered/precaution of use in SPC and THES and potential interaction in LIV) and red flag interaction (not recommended/contraindication in SPC and THES and do not administer/contraindication in LIV).

Results

Among 239 subjects included, 60 (25.1%) had at least 1 DDI for a total of 126 DDIs: 23/126 red flag DDIs were identified in 17 patients. All these 23 DDIs were identified in LIV. THES and SPC missed 6 and 1 red flag DDIs, respectively. Seven of 23 red flag DDIs were identified in the 3 databases concomitantly.

Conclusion

Polypharmacy is frequent in this elderly HIV population leading to DDI in a quarter of the subjects. The discrepancies between databases can be explained by differences in analysis methods. A consensus between databases would be helpful for clinicians.
Autonomy and the limits of cognitive enhancement
Authors: Lewis Jonathan
Published: July 2020

In the debates regarding the ethics of human enhancement, proponents have found it difficult to refute the concern, voiced by certain bioconservatives, that cognitive enhancement violates the autonomy of the enhanced. However, G. Owen Schaefer, Guy Kahane and Julian Savulescu have attempted not only to avoid autonomy‐based bioconservative objections, but to argue that cognition‐enhancing biomedical interventions can actually enhance autonomy. In response, this paper has two aims: firstly, to explore the limits of their argument; secondly, and more importantly, to develop a more complete understanding of autonomy and its relation to cognitive enhancement. By drawing a distinction between the capacity for autonomy and the exercise and achievement of autonomy, and by exploring the possible effects of cognitive enhancement on both competence and authenticity conditions for autonomy, the paper identifies and explains which dimensions of autonomy can and cannot, in principle, be enhanced via direct cognitive interventions. This allows us to draw conclusions regarding the limits of cognitive enhancement as a means for enhancing autonomy.
The effectiveness of a marketing virtual reality learning simulation: A quantitative survey with psychophysiological measures
Authors: Sung Billy , Mergelsberg Enrique , Teah Min , D’Silva Brandon , Phau Ian
Published: July 2020

Virtual reality (VR) technology has been shown to be a promising teaching method in STEM subjects. Extending these findings, the current study is the first to develop and examine the feasibility of using a VR simulation in marketing (ie, a non‐STEM subject). Specifically, the levels of immersion and three learning outcomes (learning attitude, enjoyment and performance) were compared between the marketing students who learned the same content through a VR simulation prototype versus a traditional static video presentation. Learning enjoyment was measured using facial electromyography, which served as a more objective measures for the feeling of enjoyment. Compared to the video condition, the results showed that VR resulted in a higher experience of immersion, learning attitude and learning enjoyment. Furthermore, immersion was found to fully mediate the positive effects of the VR simulation on learning attitude, but not enjoyment. Surprisingly, students in the video condition performed better on the knowledge‐based test than those in the VR condition. The current study suggests that the current prototype of the VR simulations should be used as supplementary resource to increase the learning attitude and enjoyment, but not as a main teaching material to enhance knowledge‐based performance in the marketing discipline.
Embedded Fixers, Pragmatic Experimenters, Dedicated Activists: Evaluating Third‐Party Labour Market Actors’ Initiatives for Skilled Project‐Based Workers in the Gig Economy
Authors: Koene Bas A. S. , Pichault François
Published: July 2020

Non‐standard career paths — in which workers jump from one employment arrangement to another according to the projects they work on — have become more frequent in modern labour markets. The traditional solutions for organizing and managing work relationships and job transitions have become less effective for such workers regarding the risks of precariousness and economic dependence they may experience. Envisioning ways forward requires an appreciation of what was achieved over the past century and an understanding of what is needed to replace and adapt these achievements. Emerging solutions for managing work relationships are provided by a growing range of third‐party labour market actors, but the evaluation of their contributions in the literature remains limited. In this article, we build an original theoretical framework to evaluate such contributions according to the kind of services they provide and their respective engagement in institutional innovation. We give examples of solutions developed for skilled workers in two institutional contexts: the Netherlands and Belgium and show how our framework can help distinguish at least three groups of actors that contribute to labour market development in different ways.