bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feasibility of Deep Learning–Based Noise and Artifact Reduction in Coronal Reformation of Contrast-Enhanced Chest Computed Tomography
Authors: Kang Eun-Ju , Park Hyoung Suk , Jeon Kiwan , Lee Ji Won , Lim Jae-Kwang
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a deep learning method for imaging artifact and noise reduction in coronal reformation of contrast-enhanced chest computed tomography (CT).

Methods

A total of 19,052 coronal reformatted chest CT images of 110 CT image sets (55 pairs of concordant 16- and 320-row CT image sets) were included and used to train a deep learning algorithm for artifact and noise correction. For internal validation, 4093 coronal reformatted CT images of 25 patients from 16-row CT images underwent correction processing. For external validation, chest CT images of 30 patients (1028 coronal reformatted CT images), acquired in other institutions using different scanners, were subjected to correction processing. For both validations, image quality was compared between original (“CTorigin”) and deep learning–based corrected (“CTcorrect”) CT images. Quantitative analysis for stair-step artifact (coefficient of variance of CT density on coronal reformation), image noise, signal-to-noise ratio, and contrast-to-noise ratio were evaluated. Subjective image quality scores were assigned for image contrast, artifact, and conspicuity of major structures.

Results

CTcorrect showed significantly reduced stair-step artifact (mean coefficient of variance: CTorigin 7.35 ± 2.0 vs CTcorrect 5.17 ± 2.4, P < 0.001) and image noise and improved signal-to-noise ratio and contrast-to-noise ratio in the aorta, pulmonary artery, and liver, compared with those of CTorigin (P < 0.01). On subjective analysis, CTcorrect had higher image contrast, lower artifact, and better conspicuity than CTorigin. Most results of the external validation were consistent with those obtained from the internal validation, except for those concerning the pulmonary artery.

Conclusions

Deep learning–based artifact correction significantly improved the image quality of coronal reformation chest CT by reducing image noise and artifacts.
Changes in the expression of miR-103a and miR-21: a functional diagnosis of toxocariasis in rats
Authors: Zibaei Mohammad , Rokni Mohammad Bagher , Sohrabi Nasrin , Sepahvand Asghar , Raiesi Omid , Getso Muhammad Ibrahim , Alizadeh Gita , Ibrahim Asmaa , Yarahmadi Mohammad , Raissi Vahid
Published: May 2022

Introduction. Toxocariasis is a zoonotic parasitic disease caused by migrating nematode worms, Toxocara species larvae, within tissues. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small RNA molecules that regulate gene expression at a post-transcriptional level.

Hypothesis/Gap Statement. miRNA-based diagnostic biomarkers for toxocariasis are emerging, but there is limited information about the role of many miRNAs and a more detailed diagnostic evaluation of miRNA expression patterns is needed to understand their immunobiological function.

Aim. We investigated the expression levels of circulating miRNA 21 and miRNA 103a as potential biomarkers for the prediction and diagnosis of toxocariasis in Wistar rats infected with Toxocara canis.

Methodology. Thirty Wistar rats were inoculated orally with 2500 T. canis embryonated eggs via gavage. Serum samples were collected from infected animals and were tested against T. canis antigens for 60 days post-infection. The plasma samples were isolated for quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) assays and qPCR was used to assess transcription levels of miRNA 21 and miRNA 103a.

Results. The prevalence of anti-Toxocara IgG was detected in 7/30 (23.3 %) infected rats. Molecular analysis of miRNAs 21 and 103a showed that expression levels of miRNAs in both groups of Toxocara-positive and negative samples were the same without significant association. The ratio of housekeeping gene expression (U6) to gene expression of miRNAs 21 and 103a indicated the rate of change (1/1.38 ≈ 0.75 and 1/0.751 ≈ 1.3, respectively).

Conclusion. Our study revealed that miRNAs 21 and 103a might play fundamental roles as biomarkers and diagnostic tools for toxocariasis. However, the changes in expression of these miRNAs were not adequate to be used as biomarkers in diagnosis.
Molecular structures of two copper complexes with the pharmaceuticals norfloxacin and tinidazole, when powder X-ray diffraction assists multi-domain single-crystal X-ray diffraction
Authors: Tobón Zapata Gloria Elena , Martínez Carmona Dina Marcela , Echeverría Gustavo Alberto , Piro Oscar Enrique
Published: May 2022

The crystal structures of bis[1-ethyl-6-fluoro-4-oxo-7-(piperazin-1-ium-4-yl)-1,4-dihydroquinoline-3-carboxylato]copper(II) sulfate heptahydrate, [Cu(C16H18FN3O3)2]SO4·7H2O or [Cu(nor)2]SO4·7H2O (nor is norfloxacin), and bis{1-[2-(ethylsulfonyl)ethyl]-2-methyl-5-nitroimide}dinitratocopper(II), [Cu(NO3)2(C8H13N3O4S)2] or [Cu(NO3)2(tnz)2] (tnz is tinidazole), were solved by X-ray diffraction. Both complexes crystallize in the space group P21/c, with Z = 4 (for nor) and Z = 2 (for ntz) molecules per unit cell. In [Cu(nor)2]SO4·7H2O, the CuII ion is at the centre of a square-planar environment, trans coordinated to two independent norfloxacin molecules in the zwitterionic form acting as bidentate ligands through one of the carboxyl (cbx) and the carbonyl (cb) O atoms. The solid is further stabilized by an extensive network of N—H...O(sulfate), N—H...O(cbx), N—H...OW, OW—H...O(sulfate) and OW—H...OW hydrogen bonds. The [Cu(NO3)2(tnz)2] complex is centrosymmetric, with the CuII ion in a square planar environment, coordinated to a tinidazole molecule acting as a monodentate ligand through its imidazole N atom and to one nitrate O atom. The vibrational FT–IR absorption spectra and thermal behaviour of the complexes were also studied and are briefly discussed based on the crystal structures.
Polymorphic transition due to grinding: the case of 3-[1-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)azetidin-3-yl]-1,2-oxazole-4-carboxylic acid
Authors: Konovalova Irina S. , Shaposhnyk Anna M. , Baumer Vyacheslav N. , Chalyk Bohdan A. , Shishkina Svitlana V.
Published: May 2022

A polymorphic transition as a result of grinding was found for 3-[1-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)azetidin-3-yl]-1,2-oxazole-4-carboxylic acid. The thorough study of polymorphic structures before and after crystal structure transformation has revealed some pre-conditions for a polymorphic transition and regularities of changes in molecular and crystal structure. In metastable polymorph1a, the conformationally flexible molecule adopts a conformation with the higher energy and forms a less preferable linear supramolecular synthon. Additional energy imparted to a crystal structure during the grinding process proved to be enough to overcome low energy barriers for the nitrogen inversion and rotation of the oxazole ring around thesp3–sp2single bond. As a result, polymorph1bwith a molecule adopting conformation with lower energy and forming a more preferable centrosymmetric supramolecular synthon was obtained. The study of pairwise interaction energies in the two polymorphs has shown that metastable polymorph1ais organized by molecular building units and has a columnar-layered structure. A centrosymmetric dimer should be recognized as a complex building unit in more stable polymorph1b, which has a layered structure.
Managerial representations of achieving a competitive advantage in architectural practices: a UK perspective
Authors: Bruen John , Spillane John P. , Bradley Jim , Brooks Tara
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study aims to uncover managerial representations of achieving competitive advantage in architectural practices operating within the United Kingdom (UK).

Design/methodology/approach

A sequential qualitative methodology is applied, underpinned by nine managerial interviews in five architectural practices, which are analysed using computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software.

Findings

In all, 108 representations are identified, with highly rated concepts including reputation, client satisfaction, fees and staff resources discussed in detail. The need for architectural practices to develop a competitive advantage within their sector is increasingly apparent, particularly during times of market turbulence. A total of 20 themes identified are clustered into four main groups focused on People (including Calibre of Staff, Attract Graduates; Qualified Staff); Product (including Emphasis on design, Specialisation, Competitive Fees): Process (including Low Overheads, Office Efficiency) and Potential (Reputation, Ability to Undertake Large Projects, Repeat clients, Ability to expand, Parent Company, Market Understanding and New Offices).

Originality/value

Despite numerous studies conducted on this subject, there has been no research to date documenting managerial representation on achieving competitive advantage in the context of architectural practices in the UK. This paper closes this gap in knowledge by contributing to underlying research on competitive advantage, focusing on the managerial representations within UK architectural practices.
Examining ecological strategies adopted by agricultural exporting firms in an emerging country
Authors: Do Binh , Nguyen Ninh , Nguyen Hoang , Jiang Xinru (Angie)
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The rising food demand around the globe goes hand in hand with the rapid development of the agriculture industry. However, this development at the same time has detrimental effects on the natural environment. Hence, promoting ecological strategies in agriculture is essential for environmental sustainability. This study aims to investigate the institutional determinants of ecological strategies adopted by agricultural exporting firms and how these strategies enhance the firms' competitive advantage and financial performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was conducted to collect data from 218 managers of agricultural exporting companies in Vietnam, which is a major exporter of agricultural products. The data were analyzed using different techniques including partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM).

Findings

The results reveal that market pressure, regulatory pressure and competitive pressure motivate the adoption of ecological strategies among the surveyed agricultural exporting firms. Furthermore, such strategies help these firms obtain competitive advantage, which in turn increases their export financial performance. In addition, larger firms, compared to smaller firms, are more likely to adopt ecological strategies.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by developing and validating a unique model examining the institutional pressures of ecological strategies and their outcomes in export markets. The study extends current knowledge about ecological exporting strategies for agricultural products, and its findings have several managerial and policy implications for promoting these strategies among agricultural exporting firms in emerging countries like Vietnam.
Determining the role of sources of knowledge and IT resources for stimulating firm innovation capability: a PLS-SEM approach
Authors: Shehzad Muhammad Usman , Zhang Jianhua , Alam Sajjad , Cao Ziao
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Drawing on the knowledge-based view (KBV), the research examines the impact of knowledge sources (internal and external knowledge sources) on two aspects of innovation radical and incremental innovation. Additionally, the research seeks to provide deeper insight into the link between the variables by studying how information technology (IT) resources mediate the relationship between knowledge sources and innovation capability.

Design/methodology/approach

The study assessed the relationship between latent variables using a quantitative research approach and variance-based structural equation modelling on a sample of 380 individuals from 83 Pakistani manufacturing and service firms.

Findings

The study's results revealed a significant impact of knowledge sources (internal and external knowledge sources) on radical and incremental innovation. Further, the study examines the mediating role of IT resources in connecting knowledge sources and a firm's innovation capability.

Research limitations/implications

Future studies should investigate the association among the constructs under the moderating roles of environmental turbulence to provide insight into the relationship between knowledge sources, IT resources, and innovation capability.

Practical implications

The paper provides evidence that knowledge sources and IT resources are the key driving factors of innovation capability. Managers and directors of firms in developing and emerging countries should establish firms' knowledge sources and IT resources to improve innovation capability.

Originality/value

There is a scarcity of studies that has explored the relationship between sources of knowledge, IT resources, and specific types of innovation, namely radical and incremental innovation. The paper helps fill research gaps in the literature and advances understanding of how knowledge sources, directly and indirectly, stimulate firms' innovation capabilities via the mediating role of IT resources.
Does mentoring reduce entrepreneurial doubt? A longitudinal gendered perspective
Authors: St-Jean Etienne , Jacquemin Amélie
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Mentoring appears to be a good support practice to reduce entrepreneurial doubt, amongst other things. Although perceived similarity could foster the mentoring relationship, gender dyad composition may also influence doubt reduction for entrepreneurs because of the potential gender stereotype in entrepreneurship.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors performed longitudinal research based on an initial sample of 170 entrepreneurs supported by a mentor to investigate the evolution of entrepreneurial doubt.

Findings

This study demonstrates that doubt can be reduced with mentoring, but only temporarily for male mentees. Gender stereotypes may be at play when it comes to receiving the support of a female mentor as entrepreneurship is still, unfortunately, a “male-dominated world.” Receiving support from mentors perceived as highly similar within the dyad does not reduce entrepreneurial doubt. Trusting the mentor is an important aspect, besides gender, in reducing entrepreneurial doubt.

Originality/value

The research provides insights into the gendered effect of mentoring to reduce entrepreneurial doubt. It shows that gender dyad composition should be taken into consideration when studying mentoring or other similar support to entrepreneurs.
Disentangling the relationship between employees’ dynamic capabilities, innovative work behavior and job performance in public hospitals
Authors: Al Wali Joather , Muthuveloo Rajendran , Teoh Ai Ping , Al Wali Wafaa
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between innovative work behavior and job performance among physicians in Iraq’s public hospitals. It also quantifies the impact of employees’ dynamic capabilities on innovative work behavior. It further examines the mediating role of innovative work behavior in the relationship between dynamic capabilities and of employees’ job performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The survey had a total of 332 respondents, but only 173 responses were used after data screening. To determine the relationship between the variables, the study uses structural equation modeling via partial least squares (PLS-SEM).

Findings

This study indicates that innovative work behavior has a positive relationship with job performance among physicians in Iraq’s public hospitals. It also reveals that employees’ dynamic capabilities are important determinants of innovative work behavior. This research further shows that innovative work behavior has a positive mediating role in the relationship between dynamic capabilities and job performance among physicians in Iraq’s public hospitals.

Originality/value

This study implies that innovative work behavior can improve physicians’ job performance while the employees’ dynamic capabilities can improve innovative work behavior. Besides, innovative work behavior can amplify the impact of employees’ dynamic capabilities on job performance. Thus, Iraq’s public hospitals should make a concerted effort to promote innovative work behavior to improve physicians’ job performance.
Human vs technology: a cross-cultural comparison of HR professionals' perceptions
Authors: Mantzaris Konstantinos , Myloni Barbara
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This quantitative study seeks to explore HR professionals' perceptions regarding the adoption of technological applications under the fourth industrial revolution on 25 critical human resource management (HRM) challenges. Additionally, the authors compare data for potential cross-cultural differences.

Design/methodology/approach

A total sample of 251 HR professionals from 11 countries was divided into four different cultural clusters. They were asked about their attitudes to the most important HRM challenges when managing industrial relations. A 25-item structured Likert five-point scale questionnaire was used to explore the human vs technology relation and examine if there were any significant differences between clusters for each of the challenges.

Findings

The results suggest that most HR professionals believe that the use of technology instead of people cannot solve entirely human-centered and emotional based challenges, as those seem to be less exposed to machinery. Moreover, their views on only two of the 25 challenges present significant differences between cultural clusters, regarding making decisions solely on personal interest and managing confidential information after terminating employment.

Originality/value

This paper constitutes the first attempt of addressing the impact of the fourth industrial revolution on HRM challenges at a cross-cultural level. It is plausible that globalization and the fourth industrial revolution affect the perceptions of HR professionals worldwide. The study shows that respondents' perceptions about the “human vs technology” dilemma point toward the same direction, irrespective of their cultural background: that of enhancing human worker's role in business in the age of rapid technological advancements. In addition, the way our sample was drawn, taking into account the top Global Competitiveness Index 4.0 countries, makes our results robust and reliable.
Exploring factors influencing service trade-offs in the higher education sector: evidence from Malaysia
Authors: Raman Saravanan , Mohd Suki Norazah , Heng Wei Lee , Chinniah Subhaseni
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Trade-offs are unavoidable in a competitive and difficult economic environment, causing a challenge for those wanting to provide consistently high-quality service across all touchpoints in the service delivery ecosystem, included in which is the higher education (HE) sector. This study aims to explore the key factors influencing service trade-offs related to the efforts of academics in Malaysia’s HE sector.

Design/methodology/approach

A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 400 full-time academics from several higher learning institutions in Malaysia. Data were analysed using the partial least squares-structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) approach.

Findings

The results reveal that service trade-offs in the HE sector were heavily influenced by service priorities. Customisation of services, meeting individual student needs, working under immense pressure within tight timeframes and focusing on teaching and research jointly contribute to academics’ service trade-offs in the HE sector. Indeed, the nature of the job necessitates such trade-offs by default, as academics are unable to cancel or postpone classes due to scheduling constraints and the requirement to be physically present during class sessions.

Practical implications

HE administrators and managers should provide academics with adequate resources, effective work allocation and optimal timeframes for task completion, as service priorities are the key factors influencing service trade-offs in Malaysia’s HE sector. The satisfaction of these needs would enable academics’ service priorities and trade-offs to be better balanced, thereby contributing to better operational efficiency, boosting organisational performance and maintaining business sustainability.

Originality/value

The empirical results serve to clarify the key factors influencing service trade-offs in the HE sector, thus expanding the extant literature, which has mostly concentrated on describing the same phenomena in the manufacturing sector. The proposed service trade-offs model would serve as a guideline for operational efficiencies in the HE sector to prevent future recurrence and reduce the potential risk of service disruption, thus mitigating the risk of dissatisfaction.
Risk and psychological return: a moderating role of COVID-19 risk perception in the impact of team identification on vitality after sport spectatorship in Tokyo
Authors: Kinoshita Keita , Matsuoka Hirotaka
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the impact of sport fans' team identification on their emotional experiences (i.e. vitality and game satisfaction) using two-wave data in a specific sport event during the declaration of the emergency statement in Japan. The study also aims to test the moderating effects of risk perceptions about COVID-19 and the game outcome on the relationship between team identification and vitality/game satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

The present research was conducted in the context of a sport event in Tokyo (the Japanese Rugby Top League 2020–2021 Season Playoff Tournament Final) during the declaration of the emergency statement period in Japan. The data were collected through a two-wave design (before and after the game) from the spectators of the event.

Findings

Team identification significantly predicted higher vitality after the game but not game satisfaction. Additionally, the moderation test found that sport fans with high social risk perception about the COVID-19 showed a positive relationship between team identification and vitality but not for the fans with low social risk perception.

Practical implications

The present results suggest that sport events can be advertised for sport fans as a tool to increase physical and psychological energy in their daily lives during the pandemic.

Originality/value

The present study demonstrated that team identification predicted greater vitality after the spectatorship during the COVID-19 outbreak. In particular, higher social risk perception was a significant catalyst to improve vitality after the game.
A configurational analysis of cross-channel integration
Authors: Deng Qi , Zhuang Guijun , Li Sihan , Yang Hailong
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Cross-channel integration improves the operations of multi-channel and omnichannel marketing and increase firms' overall performance. By addressing the extant gaps in current literature, this configurational analysis aims to test the combined effects of organizational, channel and environmental factors on cross-channel integration.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from a sample of 180 manufacturers. Necessary condition analysis (NCA) was used to test whether two organizational factors (firm size and IT capability), one environmental factor (environmental dynamism) and two channel factors (channel diversity and proportion of direct channels) were necessary or unnecessary conditions for high cross-channel integration. Fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) was applied to analyze the configurational factors of high vs low cross-channel integration.

Findings

First, firm size and IT capability are non-linear and substitute for each other in affecting cross-channel integration in a diversified channel system with a high proportion of direct channels. Second, in a dynamic environment, firms with large size and IT advantage could achieve high cross-channel integration by diversifying channel types or increasing the proportion of direct channels. Third, the effect of channel diversity and proportion of direct channels on cross-channel integration is asymmetric depending on other antecedent conditions.

Originality/value

The authors tested a configurational framework developed from multiple theoretical perspectives. The authors' empirical findings contribute to the literature by providing insights into the mechanisms underlying the formation of high and low cross-channel integration. The results suggest multiple ways for firms to promote cross-channel integration by adjusting channel factors based on configurational conditions.
Deterrence and defiance as responses to copyright enforcement policies of digital content: appraisal tendency perspective
Authors: Miocevic Dario
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Today, digital piracy remains a growing challenge for legislators and businesses operating in the entertainment industry. For these reasons, policymakers place significant efforts in reducing piracy activities through copyright enforcement policies. Yet, the effectiveness of these frameworks remains questionable since empirical evidence offers countervailing insights. For these reasons, this study adopts a demand-side approach to investigate how users' emotional reactions to the copyright enforcement policy influence their digital piracy-related judgments and intention.

Design/methodology/approach

The author used a scenario-based approach to test the hypotheses and surveyed 262 users who actively stream movies and TV shows.

Findings

By drawing on the appraisal tendency framework, the author finds that among individuals experiencing fear due to the copyright enforcement policy, there is a decreasing intention to continue using illegal streaming services. On the contrary, individuals experiencing indignation are more likely to have increased intention to use illegal streaming services. On top of this, we reveal indirect effects by mediating individuals' vulnerability to sanctions (fear path) and subjective norms (indignation path) as judgments cues.

Originality/value

The author contributes to digital piracy literature in two ways with the study. First, the author unfolds the affective background that explains the emergence of deterrence or defiance effects when users respond to the copyright enforcement policy. Thus, the author shows that fear is a trigger for decreasing while indignation increases the usage of illegal streaming services. Second, through the appraisal tendency framework, the author enriches the literature by theorizing and providing empirical evidence on how previously established vulnerability to sanctions and subjective norms reinforce affective influences on encouraging or discouraging digital piracy intentions. Overall, the findings also provide policymakers with original insights on designing their copyright enforcement tools to combat digital piracy further.
Let’s be entrepreneurs – Finnish youth’s attitudes toward entrepreneurship
Authors: Hintikka Jouni , Taipale-Erävala Kyllikki , Lehtinen Ulla , Eskola Leena
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to clarify Finnish youth’s attitudes toward entrepreneurship and evaluate both regional and background factors influencing those attitudes.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a survey of 1,497 students aged 15 to 24 years and analyzed the data using descriptive statistical analysis.

Findings

The study’s results indicate positive attitudes toward entrepreneurship among the youth. One of the notable findings of the study was the number of students who had already worked as entrepreneurs. The study also revealed background factors that affected entrepreneurial attitudes, such as regional aspects, entrepreneurial background and gender.

Practical implications

The results of this study highlight the importance of regional-level entrepreneurial education activities for increasing the vitality and entrepreneurial intentions within remote areas of Finland. This study suggests to develop new teaching methods to further raise entrepreneurial attitudes and expand gender equal entrepreneurial education programs aimed at promoting entrepreneurship, especially in remote areas.

Originality/value

The study results reveal that the attitudes of young Finnish people toward entrepreneurship seem to be at a more positive levels than indicated by earlier studies. In previous Global Entrepreneurship Monitor studies, researchers evaluated Finnish youth’s attitudes toward entrepreneurship. By contrast, this study’s data was based on the opinions of youth in the region with the youngest population in Finland, and they described the entrepreneurial attitudes of themselves and their peers.
An evaluation on the adaptive reuse of monuments with a focus on sustainability
Authors: Faiz Büyükçam Serap , Eyüboğlu Hande
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the reuse of monumental structures through sustainability components, with the aim of emphasizing the sustainability of re-functional monumental structures.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, which is based on situation analysis, urban inns in Samsun which is located in the Central Black Sea Region of Turkey, are discussed over the data obtained from archive and field studies in line with the environmental, social and economic sustainability criteria determined as a result of literature research.

Findings

The sustainability of the sample in the environmental, social and economic context has been revealed and what should be done for the sustainability of monumental structures over environmental, social and economic components has been discussed.

Social implications

It has increased awareness of the environmental, social and economic dimensions of adaptive reuse as well as increasing the awareness of the buildings.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature in terms of evaluating monumental structures through the determined sustainability components. It is the first study on the sustainability of urban inns in the province of Samsun, the construction material of which is stone.
On tree-structured linear and quantile regression-based asset pricing
Authors: Galakis John , Vrontos Ioannis , Xidonas Panos
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study aims to introduce a tree-structured linear and quantile regression framework to the analysis and modeling of equity returns, within the context of asset pricing.

Design/Methodology/Approach

The approach is based on the idea of a binary tree, where every terminal node parameterizes a local regression model for a specific partition of the data. A Bayesian stochastic method is developed including model selection and estimation of the tree structure parameters. The framework is applied on numerous U.S. asset pricing models, using alternative mimicking factor portfolios, frequency of data, market indices, and equity portfolios.

Findings

The findings reveal strong evidence that asset returns exhibit asymmetric effects and non- linear patterns to different common factors, but, more importantly, that there are multiple thresholds that create several partitions in the common factor space.

Originality/Value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, this paper is the first to explore and apply a tree-structured and quantile regression framework in an asset pricing context.
Exploring the impacts of COVID‐19 on the lifestyles of community‐living adults in Singapore: A qualitative study
Authors: Lee Pei Ning , How Jia Ai , Xu Tianma
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Disruptions caused by the COVID‐19 pandemic have not only restricted people from performing occupations but also adversely affected their health and quality of life. However, the impact of the pandemic on Singaporean adults at different life stages remains unclear. This study aimed to understand the impact of COVID‐19 on a range of community‐living age groups' occupations and sense of well‐being.

Methods

Community‐living adults in Singapore were invited to participate in this qualitative descriptive study. Thematic analysis was conducted to generate themes and identify common patterns (e.g. impacts on different occupations) in different age groups.

Findings

Twenty‐nine semi‐structured interviews (young adults: 10, middle‐aged adults: 10, older adults: 9) were conducted and thematically analysed, revealing three main themes: (1) impact on occupations, (2) impacts on personal well‐being, and (3) responses to COVID‐19 situation. Participants from all age groups experienced both positive and negative impacts across various occupations, such as productivity (work and study), leisure, and self‐care activities. Young and middle‐aged adults were less affected as they were more proficient in using technology to make adequate adaptations. Older adults were least equipped with coping strategies and thus the most compromised. In response to the impacts of the pandemic on occupations and well‐being, participants from different age groups adjusted differently (e.g. adopting a sedentary lifestyle and developing different coping strategies).

Conclusion

This study identified the impacts of COVID‐19 on the daily occupations of Singaporean adults and how it is intricately linked with their well‐being. Findings also revealed the significant role of technology in adapting to the COVID‐19 situation. The younger Singaporean adults were more agile to make occupational changes and adaptations. More can be done by occupational therapists to assist community‐living older adults to enable continued participation in meaningful occupations during pandemics.
‘I'm institutionalised … there's not much I can do’: Lived experience of housing related delayed discharge
Authors: Chuah Christina Pui Ting , Honey Anne , Arblaster Karen
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Delayed discharge from inpatient mental health units is the continued hospitalisation of consumers after being assessed as ready to be discharged. This is common in adult inpatient mental health services and is usually due to a lack of appropriate housing for discharge. Research indicates a range of possible negative impacts, but no studies have explored consumers' perspectives on this issue. This study explores consumers' perspectives of the experience of housing related delayed discharge (HRDD).

Method

Using a grounded theory approach, in‐depth interviews were conducted with 10 consumers. All consumers were experiencing HRDD from inpatient mental health units in one Sydney local health district. The data were analysed using constant comparative analysis.

Findings

A lack of choice and control was the central theme that characterised participants' experiences. The combined experience of being delayed in hospital and being homeless led to a lack of choice and control over the basics in life, how consumers spent their time and with whom, and their futures. This lack of autonomy was shaped by the features of the hospital and participants' personal circumstance. The hospital features included rules and routines, physical and social environments, resources, and support from staff. Personal circumstances included individual situations, social networks, and support from community organisations. Participants described a variety of impacts, including reduced mental and physical well‐being, and anticipated difficulty transitioning back into the community.

Conclusion

This study is the first of its kind and provides consumer perspectives on the impacts of HRDD on their well‐being and recovery. The inability to participate in meaningful and necessary occupations is an occupational injustice and implies the need for occupational therapists to advocate for both the prevention of HRDD through government investment in affordable and readily available housing and the mitigation of its effects through modified hospital environments and practices.
The micro determinants of financial inclusion and financial resilience in Africa
Authors: Tinta Abdoulganiour Almame , Ouédraogo Idrissa Mohamed , Al‐Hassan Ramatu Mahama
Published: May 2022

This study analyzes the factors influencing financial inclusion and financial resilience in Africa. Using national surveys of 40 African countries and the doing business database, multiple models are performed to analyze financial inclusion drivers. The results show that individual characteristics, barriers to formal accounting, financial literacy and innovation condition the decision to have a traditional or mobile account. Informal savings are common among women, youth and in rural areas while formal savings predominate among men, the elderly and in urban areas. A high level of education and income leads people to migrate to formal savings. For business purposes, informal savings are preferred while for old age, individuals resort to formal savings because of interest rates. Social lifestyles make informal credit predominate in Africa. However, when people have employment, high income or education, they turn more to formal credit to preserve their reputation because of the respect and popularity they enjoy in their community. Marriage, financial literacy and innovation improve the resilience of individuals, while employment increases their vulnerability. Key policy recommendations are to improve the banking sector, institutions, innovations and income‐generating activities to attract women and reduce the gender gap.
Vortex‐assisted dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction‐gas chromatography (VADLLME‐GC) determination of residual ketamine, nimetazepam, and xylazine from drug‐spiked beverages appearing in liquid, droplet, and dry forms
Authors: Teoh Way Koon , Mohamed Sadiq Nabeesathul Sumayya , Saisahas Kasrin , Phoncai Apichai , Kunalan Vanitha , Md Muslim Noor Zuhartini , Limbut Warakorn , Chang Kah Haw , Abdullah Ahmad Fahmi Lim
Published: May 2022

Presently, investigations of drug‐facilitated crimes (DFCs) rely on the detection of substances extracted from biological samples following intake by the victim. However, such detection requires rapid sampling and analysis prior to metabolism and elimination of the drugs from the body. In cases of suspected DFCs, drug‐spiked beverage samples, whether in liquid, droplet, or even dried form, can be tested for the presence of spike drugs and used as evidence for the occurrence of DFCs. This study aimed to quantitatively determine three sedative‐hypnotics (ketamine, nimetazepam, and xylazine) from drug‐spiked beverages using a vortex‐assisted dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction‐gas chromatography (VADLLME‐GC) approach. In this study, a GC method was first developed and validated, followed by the optimization of the VADLLME protocol, which was then applied to quantify the target substances in simulated forensic case scenarios. The developed GC method was selective, sensitive (limit of detection: 0.08 μg/ml [ketamine]; 0.16 μg/ml [nimetazepam]; 0.08 μg/ml [xylazine]), linear (R2 > 0.99), precise (%RSD <7.2%), and accurate (% recovery: 92.8%–103.5%). Higher recoveries were achieved for the three drugs from beverage samples in liquid form (51%–97%) as compared to droplet (48%–96%) and dried (44%–93%) residues. The recovery was not hindered by very low volumes of spiked beverage and dried residues. In conclusion, the developed VADLLME‐GC method successfully recovered ketamine, nimetazepam, and xylazine from spiked beverages that are likely to be encountered during forensic investigation of DFCs.
Angiosarcoma of breast and chest wall complicated with tuberculous empyema: A case report
Authors: Gao Xingchen , Liu Haiyan , Wang Feng , Xu Ziwei , Han Yi , Liu Shuku
Published: May 2022

Angiosarcoma is a highly malignant endothelial tumor, accounting for 1% to 2% of soft tissue sarcomas. The most common site of the disease is the skin, accounting for approximately 60% of cases, especially the skin of the head. It can also occur in soft tissue, bone, and retroperitoneum. However, angiosarcomas of the breast and chest wall are rare. Here, we report a 44‐year‐old woman who was admitted to hospital with encapsulated empyema. She was subsequently diagnosed with angiosarcomas of the breast and chest wall with tuberculous empyema. At the same time, we also reviewed the current research progress in angiosarcoma of the breast and chest wall to explore better treatment options for these patients.
Estimating forest above‐ground biomass with terrestrial laser scanning: Current status and future directions
Authors: Demol Miro , Verbeeck Hans , Gielen Bert , Armston John , Burt Andrew , Disney Mathias , Duncanson Laura , Hackenberg Jan , Kükenbrink Daniel , Lau Alvaro , Ploton Pierre , Sewdien Artie , Stovall Atticus , Takoudjou Stéphane Momo , Volkova Liubov , Weston Christopher , Wortel Verginia , Calders Kim
Published: May 2022

Improving the global monitoring of above‐ground biomass (AGB) is crucial for forest management to be effective in climate mitigation. In the last decade, methods have been developed for estimating AGB from terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) data. TLS‐derived AGB estimates can address current uncertainties in allometric and Earth observation (EO) methods that quantify AGB.

We assembled a global dataset of TLS scanned and consecutively destructively measured trees from a variety of forest conditions and reconstruction pipelines. The dataset comprised 391 trees from 111 species with stem diameter ranging 8.5 to 180.3 cm and AGB ranging 13.5–43,950 kg.

TLS‐derived AGB closely agreed with destructive values (bias <1%, concordance correlation coefficient of 98%). However, we identified below‐average performances for smaller trees (<1,000 kg) and conifers. In every individual study, TLS estimates of AGB were less biased and more accurate than those from allometric scaling models (ASMs), especially for larger trees (>1,000 kg).

More effort should go to further understanding and constraining several TLS error sources. We currently lack an objective method of evaluating point cloud quality for tree volume reconstruction, hindering the development of reconstruction algorithms and presenting a bottleneck for tracking down the error sources identified in our synthesis. Since quantifying AGB with TLS requires only a fraction of the efforts as compared to destructive harvesting, TLS‐calibrated ASMs can become a powerful tool in AGB upscaling. TLS will be critical for calibrating/validating scheduled and launched remote sensing initiatives aiming at global AGB mapping.
Impact of cyclooxygenase‐2 inhibition on cannabis withdrawal and circulating endocannabinoids in daily cannabis smokers
Authors: Haney Margaret , Bedi Gillinder , Cooper Ziva D. , Herrmann Evan S. , Reed Stephanie Collins , Foltin Richard W. , Kingsley Philip J. , Marnett Lawrence J. , Patel Sachin
Published: May 2022

Attenuating enzymatic degradation of endocannabinoids (eCBs) by fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) reduces cannabis withdrawal symptoms in preclinical and clinical studies. In mice, blocking cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) activity increases central eCB levels by inhibiting fatty acid degradation. This placebo‐controlled study examined the effects of the FDA‐approved COX‐2 selective inhibitor, celecoxib, on cannabis withdrawal, ‘relapse’, and circulating eCBs in a human laboratory model of cannabis use disorder. Daily, nontreatment‐seeking cannabis smokers (12M, 3F) completed a crossover study comprising two 11‐day study phases (separated by >14 days for medication clearance). In each phase, the effects of daily BID placebo (0 mg) or celecoxib (200 mg) on cannabis (5.3% THC) intoxication, withdrawal symptoms (4 days of inactive cannabis self‐administration) and ‘relapse’ (3 days of active cannabis self‐administration following abstinence) were assessed. Outcome measures included mood, cannabis self‐administration, sleep, food intake, cognitive performance, tobacco cigarette use and circulating eCBs and related lipids. Under placebo maintenance, cannabis abstinence produced characteristic withdrawal symptoms (negative mood, anorexia and dreaming) relative to cannabis administration and was associated with increased OEA (a substrate of FAAH) and oleic acid (metabolite of OEA), with no change in eCB levels. Compared to placebo, celecoxib improved subjective (but not objective) measures of sleep and did not affect mood or plasma levels of eCBs or associated lipids and increased cannabis craving. The overall absence of effects on cannabis withdrawal symptoms, self‐administration or circulating eCBs relative to placebo, combined with an increase in cannabis craving, suggests celecoxib does not show promise as a potential pharmacotherapy for CUD.
NLRP6 negatively regulates type 2 immune responses in mice
Authors: Chenuet Pauline , Marquant Quentin , Fauconnier Louis , Youness Ali , Mellier Manon , Marchiol Tiffany , Rouxel Nathalie , Messaoud‐Nacer Yasmine , Maillet Isabelle , Ledru Aurélie , Quesniaux Valérie F. J. , Ryffel Bernhard , Horsnell William , Végran Frédérique , Apetoh Lionel , Togbe Dieudonnée
Published: May 2022

Background

Inflammasomes are large protein complexes that assemble in the cytosol in response to danger such as tissue damage or infection. Following activation, inflammasomes trigger cell death and the release of biologically active forms of pro‐inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)‐1β and IL‐18. NOD‐like receptor family pyrin domain containing 6 (NLRP6) inflammasome is required for IL‐18 secretion by intestinal epithelial cells, macrophages, and T cells, contributing to homeostasis and self‐defense against pathogenic microbes. However, the involvement of NLRP6 in type 2 lung inflammation remains elusive.

Methods

Wild‐type (WT) and Nlrp6−/− mice were used. Birch pollen extract (BPE)‐induced allergic lung inflammation, eosinophil recruitment, Th2‐related cytokine and chemokine production, airway hyperresponsiveness, and lung histopathology, Th2 cell differentiation, GATA3, and Th2 cytokines expression, were determined. Nippostrongylus brasiliensis (Nb) infection, worm count in intestine, type 2 innate lymphoid cell (ILC2), and Th2 cells in lungs were evaluated.

Results

We demonstrate in Nlrp6−/− mice that a mixed Th2/Th17 immune responses prevailed following birch pollen challenge with increased eosinophils, ILC2, Th2, and Th17 cell induction and reduced IL‐18 production. Nippostrongylus brasiliensis infected Nlrp6−/− mice featured enhanced early expulsion of the parasite due to enhanced type 2 immune responses compared to WT hosts. In vitro, NLRP6 repressed Th2 polarization, as shown by increased Th2 cytokines and higher expression of the transcription factor GATA3 in the absence of NLRP6. Exogenous IL‐18 administration partially reduced the enhanced airways inflammation in Nlrp6−/− mice.

Conclusions

In summary, our data identify NLRP6 as a negative regulator of type 2 immune responses.
Understanding the State in relation to Late Capitalism: A Response to “New” State Capitalism Contributions
Authors: Carroll Toby , Jarvis Darryl
Published: May 2022

This intervention responds to a series of articles—including one published in Antipode—on what is referred to as “new” state capitalism (NSC) or sometimes, simply, state capitalism. Our overarching argument is that by eliding state and institutionalist theory and, specifically, separating the analysis of state transformation from the power and leverage of social forces under late capitalism, NSC scholars end up offering an inaccurate, inchoate and incoherent conceptualisation and analysis of important phenomena. Our contention is that future work needs to return to socio‐relational analyses of the state, prioritising the power and leverage of social forces operating under patterns of accumulation characterised by more‐integrated‐than‐ever‐before global economic‐market relations and the concentration of productive and financial capital.