bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contingency role of a Supplier's operational efficiency in the customer relationship – performance links
Authors: Kim Yoon Hee , Swink Morgan
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Extant studies on the relational capital—performance benefits in buyer–supplier relationships (BSRs) give limited attention to the value of internal resources/capabilities possessed by each party, thus imply the universal benefits of relational capital regardless of a party's own abilities. To fill this gap in the literature, this paper aims to investigate whether and how a firm's operational efficiency moderates the relation between its relational ties with the largest customer and its performance outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs a large panel data of US public firms and their major customer relationships for the period of 1980–2018 from Compustat and a two-stage least square regression to address endogeneity concerns.

Findings

The authors find that suppliers achieve different performance benefits and disbenefits from their relational ties with major customers depending on their own operational efficiency. Specifically, strong suppliers achieve higher market share and lower profitability as relational ties with major customers increase. In contrast, weak suppliers who develop high levels of relational ties with their major customers tend to increase their profit-generating potential, yet their market share declines. Thus, the findings suggest that suppliers make different trade-offs between profit enhancement and pie expansion depending on their operational efficiency.

Research limitations/implications

As a secondary data study, this research relies on proxy measures to capture relational ties in BSRs. Although the validity of the proxy measures are well established in the literature, additional primary information on sample firms and their relationships may be able to identify other types of internal and external resources and capabilities that can be leveraged as relational capital.

Practical implications

Relational ties with major customers entail both relational capital and relational liabilities. Strong suppliers trade off their profit-maximizing potential for the pie expansion opportunity via sales growth to major customers. On the other hand, weak suppliers achieve higher profits from relational ties with major customers, but this benefit comes at the expense of pie expansion due to decreasing sales to major customers. Managers should be aware of performance trade-offs between profit enhancement and pie expansion depending on a firm's internal capabilities and carefully choose to develop and exploit relationship-based assets with customers depending on their performance goals.

Originality/value

The contrasting performance outcomes demonstrated by strong and weak suppliers in this study challenge the prevailing assumption about the broad performance benefits of relational ties in BSRs. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research is the first to empirically substantiate the contingency role of suppliers' operational efficiency in the relational capital—performance link.
“So many things were new to us”: identifying the settlement information practices of newcomers to Canada across the settlement process
Authors: Allard Danielle
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify and map the shifting relationship between the settlement process and the information practices of newcomers from the Philippines as they migrate and settle in Canada.

Design/methodology/approach

This research employs two semi-structured in-depth interviews, each with 14 newcomers from the Philippines to Canada. Participants were selected because they had migrated to Winnipeg through the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program within 1–4 years of the date of interview.

Findings

Eight settlement information tables are identified that demonstrate participants' migration experiences, including participants' thoughts and feelings related to migration and settlement, their information questions and needs, the information resources they consult and the activities in which they engage.

Originality/value

This paper argues that this phased model approach documents the shifting relationship between settlement processes and migrants' information needs, activities, resources and practices. Articulating study findings using this phased model approach can support information institutions, such as the settlement sector and libraries, to provide support to newcomer groups in a timely and targeted manner.
Financial system specialization and private research and development expenditure: research for OECD countries
Authors: Méndez-Morales Edgard Alberto , Yanes-Guerra Carlos Andrés
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the role that different financial sources and financial specialization have on private research and development (R&D) activity in OECD countries.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors developed several panel regressions choosing as a final model a two-way random effects regression to understand which funding sources are related to the R&D expenditure, and how financial specialization has links to the private portion of R&D aggregated expenditure. The authors include data from the years 2000 to 2016 for OECD countries.

Findings

The results reinforce the critical role that stock markets have in enhancing private R&D and that bond markets have an inverse relationship with private R&D national expenditures. The authors do not find evidence of a link between bank sources and private R&D. Specialized financial systems (banking or market) support innovation in a better way than a mixed arrangement of those two systems.

Practical implications

The findings of this study have considerable policy implications. Policymakers need to be aware of these results, given that some variables related to financial markets, seems to boost the inputs for R&D. In the long term, this could be a signal that national and regional systems of innovation need a broad view of the factors hampering scientific activity, and also a signal that there are other ways to impact the results of the complex innovation activity through the development of stronger financial systems backing up national systems of innovation.

Originality/value

The authors found that the long discussion about the financial system that a country has to choose to enhance growth with R&D&I may have been misleading the public policy. The findings show that rather than a bank or a stock market financial system, economies looking to boost R&D&I, must specialize in one of the two systems, deepen these and generate the appropriate policies to promote science, technology and innovation using those financial markets.
The net effect of the travel restriction policy on tourism demand: evidence from Greece
Authors: Dimitropoulos Panagiotis , Ntasis Lazaros , Koronios Konstantinos
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to provide up-to-date evidence on the net effect of COVID-19 pandemic on international arrivals and occupancy rates in Greece. Analysis and forecasting point out the demand for 2020, and thus yielding more concrete evidence on the pure effect of the pandemic on the tourism industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Monthly observations from January 2000 to December 2020 were extracted from the Tourist Enterprises Association (SETE) for Athens, Thessaloniki, Kalamata, Rhodes, Mytilene, Santorini, Zante, Kefalonia and Crete. To model and forecast the volatility and the time trend effect of tourist arrivals individually, the study applies the autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) (p,d,q) and the error, trend, seasonality (ETS) model.

Findings

Empirical results suggested that Athens, Thessaloniki and Crete were three destinations with the worst losses in international tourist arrivals. Specifically, Athens was expecting to have (without the existence of COVID-19) more than 330,000 tourist arrivals in December 2020 while instead only 73,000 international tourists visited Athens that period. Similarly, Thessaloniki and the island of Crete lost more than 150,000 international visitors during December 2020.

Originality/value

The author’s study adds to a growing number of studies regarding the impact of COVID-19 by incorporating monthly international arrival data and occupancy rate data for the whole 2020 reflecting differences in transportation or vacation choices. Also, the authors operationalized multiple time-series forecasting models (ETS and ARIMA) for reaching more concrete forecasts and estimates on the effect of COVID-19 on the Greek tourism sector.
COVID-19 cause-related campaigns and consumers’ purchase intention: does religiosity matter?
Authors: Chetioui Youssef , Lebdaoui Hind
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to propose and test a theoretical framework in which attitude towards COVID-19 cause-related campaigns mediates the effects of identification with the cause, donation size, emotional arousal and subjective norms on consumer purchase intention. The authors also explore the moderating effect of religiosity in an emerging nation marked by the dominance of the Islamic doctrine.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data from a sample of 561 consumers from Morocco were analyzed to test the hypotheses using structural equation modeling.

Findings

First, attitude toward COVID-19 cause-related campaigns has a significant effect on consumer purchase intention; at the same time, it is influenced by identification with the cause, donation size, emotional arousal and subjective norms. Second, the results confirm the mediating effect of attitude toward COVID-19 cause-related campaigns, e.g. higher emotional arousal triggers positive attitude towards COVID-19 cause campaigns, which shapes consumer purchase intention. Third, Islamic religiosity acts as a moderator, e.g. individuals who feel themselves as highly religious are more likely to develop favorable attitude towards cause brands and therefore form stronger purchase intentions when exposed to COVID-19 cause campaigns.

Practical implications

The findings of this research suggest a number of practical and social implications for both academics and practitioners. Successful cause-related marketing (CrM) campaigns should include facets inducing emotional arousal, superior donation size, identification with the cause and subjective norms, which, in turn, enhances consumers’ attitude toward the campaign, their attitude towards the brand and purchase intentions. Practitioners interested in expanding into majority-Muslim markets should also consider the use of faith-based messages and religious morals when planning CrM campaigns.

Originality/value

While preliminary studies have already attempted to provide knowledge about the impact of COVID-19 on individuals’ health and well-being, potential effects on consumers’ decisions and behavior have not been considered much and are yet to be empirically investigated. This original research is among the first to provide insights about the potential use of COVID-19 cause to shape consumer purchase intention and behavior. This will strengthen our cross-cultural appreciation of the disparities in consumer perception of CrM among Muslim and non-Muslim communities.
Exploring the impact of COVID-19-related fear, obsessions, anxiety and stress on psychological well-being among adults in Pakistan
Authors: Aslam Naeem , Shafique Kanwal , Ahmed Ammar
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Fear of COVID-19 is one of the pivotal components that have generated higher levels of stress, obsessions and anxiety among the adult population, thus creating numerous mental health issues. The purpose of this study was to evaluate psychological well-being based on COVID-19-related fear, obsessions and anxiety during the pandemic situation.

Design/methodology/approach

The current study aimed to evaluate the relationship between COVID-19-related fear, obsessions, anxiety, stress and well-being among adult populations. Additionally, the aim was to see the impact of COVID-19-related fear, obsessions, anxiety and stress on well-being. This was a cross-sectional study based on nonclinical sample of (n = 250) adults; data was obtained via online questionnaire survey method and analysis was performed by using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS-22).

Findings

The authors’ findings based on descriptive statistics showed that COVID-19-related fear and obsessions were positively associated with COVID anxiety and stress and negatively associated with well-being. COVID anxiety was positively associated with stress and negatively associated with well-being. Moreover, perceived stress is negatively associated with well-being. The results additionally provide the outcome/conclusion that COVID-related anxiety significantly negatively predicted the psychological well-being. Overall the model explained 24% of the variance in psychological well-being. Females scored significantly high in COVID-19-related anxiety and obsessions as compared to males.

Research limitations/implications

A distinctive feature of this study is the understanding of COVID-19-related fear, obsessions, anxiety, stress and well-being among adult populations, and the findings are highlighting the need for psychological and social interventions for this specific population; therefore, immediate attention is needed by the clinical health professionals dealing with mental health issues.

Originality/value

There is a vital need to explore and develop psychological interventions aiming at the negative consequences being faced by the adult populations due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the impending second wave that will expose individuals to various mental health issues evolving because of the health crisis.
Moderating role of entrepreneurial alertness on the relationship between entrepreneurial passion and strategic change
Authors: Montiel-Campos Héctor
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between entrepreneurial passion for developing and strategic change as well as the moderating role of entrepreneurial alertness dimensions in this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 157 small firms within the sector of manufacturing parts for motor vehicles in Mexico. A hierarchical regression analysis was used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The study's results show that entrepreneurs' passion for developing is related to strategic change. Furthermore, this relationship is enhanced at higher levels of the scanning and search dimension as well as the evaluation and judgment dimension, both of which relate to entrepreneurial alertness. Contrary to expectation, the results suggest that the association and connection dimension negatively moderate the relationship between entrepreneurs' passion for developing and strategic change.

Originality/value

This study not only provides a better understanding of the drivers of strategic change, but also offers insights into its temporal component by integrating emotive and cognitive perspectives into a unified theoretical framework.
On the role of internal stakeholders in place branding
Authors: Golestaneh Homayoun , Guerreiro Manuela , Pinto Patrícia , Mosaddad Seyed Hashem
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Although place branding (PB) has been researched and practised for several years, the number of studies examining the role of internal stakeholders is still limited. The purpose of this paper is to identify the internal stakeholders associated with PB and particularly, the roles they play in such a process.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a systematic literature review in four major global databases, 55 qualified research studies on PB were identified and thoroughly reviewed. Selected studies were examined, analysed and classified according to five categories: bibliographic data, methodologies adopted, conceptual frameworks, empirical foundation and stakeholders’ relevance.

Findings

This study shows no existing consensus over the type/role of internal stakeholders in PB research. The findings indicate different methodologies, conceptual frameworks and branding approaches, as well as various empirical foundations in the reviewed studies. The results highlight the significance of internal stakeholders’ influence over PB and their roles in the process. The findings also underline the need for strategies that prioritise stakeholders’ social interactions, collective experiences and affective engagement to develop an inclusive place brand.

Practical implications

This study provides an alternative perspective that underlines the development of inclusive PB frameworks by providing stakeholders with motivational and emotional incentives, capturing their creativity and imagination and encouraging them to participate in the process. Such frameworks entail a transdisciplinary approach to PB as a dynamic process that depends on all internal stakeholders’ active engagement.

Originality/value

This review offers an in-depth perspective on relevant internal stakeholders and their roles in PB. The study further scrutinises the three most related research topics on internal stakeholders, including co-creation, internal branding and participatory PB.
The contribution of e-recruitment practices to e-recruitment outcomes in Russian companies
Authors: Kucherov Dmitry , Tsybova Victoria
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of e-recruitment practices on e-recruitment outcomes in Russian companies.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses the quantitative approach based on a survey of a sample encompassing 449 companies in Russia.

Findings

E-recruitment practices are positively related to e-recruitment outcomes. However, e-recruitment usage does not mediate the relationship between e-recruitment practices and e-recruitment outcomes.

Research limitations/implications

The extent to which the findings of this research can be generalized is constrained by a single country and cross-sectional data.

Originality/value

The current study is the first to present the e-recruitment practices, including both internet-based ones and internal technology-enabled solutions, within the overall context of human resource management (HRM) digitalization in the companies and specific HRM outcomes.
The potential impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on work from home and employee productivity
Authors: Farooq Rayees , Sultana Almaas
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This study aims to test the relationship between work from home (WFH) and employee productivity during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study also examines the moderating role of gender in the relationship between WFH and employee productivity.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 250 respondents from hospitality, banking and information technology was taken from the National Capital Region and Punjab State of India. The hypotheses were tested using structural equation modeling and multi-group moderation analysis.

Findings

The findings provide support for the negative relationship between WFH and employee productivity. This study also provides empirical evidence that gender moderates the relationship between WFH and employee productivity.

Originality/value

This study is the first of its kind to test the relationship between WFH and employee productivity during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study contributes to the organizational behavior literature by providing empirical support to the organizational adaptation theory.
How does physical activity benefit people living with dementia? A systematic review to identify the potential mechanisms of action
Authors: Pringle Jan , Jepson Ruth , Dawson Alison , McCabe Louise , Bowes Alison
Published: July 2021

Purpose

One limitation of research that assesses the effectiveness of physical activity interventions for people with dementia is that most do not describe the intervention in sufficient detail to ascertain a theoretical basis or mechanism of action that determines the effective components. This paper aims to identify studies which evaluate the mechanisms of action of physical activity interventions for people with dementia, to further inform effective intervention development.

Design/methodology/approach

Papers were screened for evidence of evaluation of specific forms of physical activity, using pre-defined inclusion criteria. Analysis was conducted to ascertain if mechanisms of action were corroborated by data within and between studies.

Findings

The authors identified 26 studies with a measured mechanism of action; these related to the effects of physical activity on either neurological structure or endocrinal markers, including hormones. Physical activity had potential to reduce hippocampal atrophy, increase neural recruitment, activate the noradrenergic system and improve anti-inflammatory responses. While individual studies were hampered by small sample sizes, the body of evidence indicated that physical activity may have potential to delay cognitive decline.

Practical implications

Mechanisms of action in relation to dementia and physical activity are likely to be multifaceted, and physical activity may be protective against progression in the early stages of cognitive decline. Physical activity may be of greatest benefit if incorporated into on-going lifestyle, rather than engaged in for short periods, and combined with social interaction.

Originality/value

This paper is unique in its focus on the mechanisms of action of physical activity interventions for people with dementia.
Social networks and family firm internationalisation: cases from a transition economy
Authors: Kryeziu Liridon , Coşkun Recai , Krasniqi Besnik
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of family firms’ types of social networks on internationalisation. By investigating the mechanisms and the process and complexity regarding the operation, function and impact of social networks, this paper aims to gain insights and understand the dynamism concerning the content, and process as well as build rich and detailed construct analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a qualitative case study as a research strategy to examine the impact of social networks on family firm internationalisation. A qualitative research strategy was used as the impact of networking relations and structure is challenging to be measured statistically.

Findings

The findings suggest that family firm internationalisation was gradual and characterised by an incremental learning process. This process facilitated the networking relations and structures that helped firms improve their quality, product diversification and set competitive prices.

Research limitations/implications

This study’s first limitation is that it focused mainly on low technology manufacturing firms. This paper recommends examining how high technology firms maximise social networks. Secondly, this paper examined family firms; therefore, this paper recommends comparing and contrasting networking relations and family and nonfamily firms' social structure. Thirdly, being limited only to social networks, this study did not focus on the impact of ownership; this paper suggests future studies to examine family ownership and involvement in firm internationalisation.

Originality/value

Understanding how firms’ social network types influence family firms’ internationalisation in a transition economy is critical to ensuring family businesses’ expansion. This study explains how family firms use social networks to internationalise, extending the current understanding of family business literature in transition economies. It also provides implications for policymakers and family firms managers for improving the growth prospects of family businesses.
Analysis of factors influencing energy consumption of material extrusion-based additive manufacturing using interpretive structural modelling
Authors: P. Ramesh , S. Vinodh
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Material extrusion (MEX) is a class of additive manufacturing (AM) process based on MEX principle. In the viewpoint of Industry 4.0 and sustainable manufacturing, AM technologies are gaining importance than conventional manufacturing route (subtractive manufacturing). Because of the ease of use and lesser operation skills, MEX had wide popularity in industry for product and prototype development. This study aims to analyze energy consumption of MEX-based AM process and its influencing factors.

Design/methodology/approach

A group of factors were identified pertaining to MEX-based AM process. In this viewpoint, this study presents the configuration of a structural model using interpretive structural modeling (ISM) to depict dominant factors in MEX-based AM process. A total of 18 influencing factors are identified and ranked using ISM methodology for MEX process. The Impact Matrix Cross-reference Multiplication Applied to a Classification analysis was done to categorize influencing factors into four groups for MEX-based AM process.

Findings

The derivation of structural model would enable AM practitioners to systematically analyze the factors and to derive key factors which enable comprehensive energy modeling and energy assessment studies. Also, it facilitates the development of energy efficient AM system.

Originality/value

The development of structural model for analysis of factors influencing energy consumption of MEX-based AM is the original contribution of the authors.
A novel device for in-situ force measurements during laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF)
Authors: Magana Carranza Rodrigo , Robinson Joseph , Ashton Ian , Fox Peter , Sutcliffe Christopher , Patterson Eann
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to detail the design and first use of a force transducer device to study the development of forces during the laser-powder bed fusion (L-PBF) process from which residual stresses can be inferred.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed novel device consists of an array of load cells for in-situ measurement of forces over time during the L-PBF additive manufacturing process. Measurements of the developed forces layer by layer were recorded in a first build using a 67-degree rotating scan strategy using Inconel 625 build material.

Findings

Preliminary experimental results from in-situ measurements using a 67-degree rotating scan strategy showed that the forces induced in the first five layers represented approximately 80% of the maximum on completion of the build and were distributed such as to induce concave deformation of the part, i.e. tension in the centre and compression at the edges of the part.

Originality/value

This paper describes a novel device for in-process measurement of the spatial distribution and time-varying nature of the forces induced during the L-PBF process as well as an evaluation of the residual forces following the completion of the build.
Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on stock market returns and volatilities: evidence from selected emerging economies
Authors: Rakshit Bijoy , Neog Yadawananda
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of exchange rate volatility, oil price return and COVID-19 cases on the stock market returns and volatility for selected emerging market economies. Additionally, this study compares the market performance in the emerging economies during the COVID-19 pandemic with the pre-COVID and global financial crisis (GFC) period.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors apply the arbitrage pricing theory to model the risk-return relationship between the risk-based factors (exchange rate volatility and COVID-19 cases) and stock market returns. By applying the exponential generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity model, the study captures the asymmetric volatility spillover from the stock markets to foreign exchange markets and vice versa.

Findings

Findings reveal that exchange rate volatility exerts a negative and significant effect on the market returns in Brazil (BOVESPA), Chile (S&P CLX IPSA), India (SENSEX), Mexico (S&P BMV IPC) and Russia (MOEX) during the coronavirus pandemic. Regarding the effect of oil price returns, the authors find a positive relationship between oil price and stock market returns across all the economies in the study. The market returns of Russia, India, Brazil and Peru appeared more volatile during the pandemic than the GFC period.

Practical implications

As the exchange rate volatility is causing higher risk and uncertainty in the stock market’s performance, the central bank’s effort to maintain a stabilizing effect on the exchange rate sale can be proven crucial for the economies under consideration. Emphasized should also be given to boost investors’ confidence in the stock market, and for this, the government policy actions in reducing the transmission of the disease are the need of the hour.

Originality/value

While a large volume of literature on stock market performance in times of COVID-19 has emerged from developed economies, this study adds to the literature by exploring the emerging economies’ stock market performance during the COVID-19 pandemic. Unlike previous literature, this study examines the volatility spillover between stock and exchange rate markets in the worst affected emerging economies during the crisis.
The United States Army Medical Command, becoming a learning organization
Authors: Hartstein Bonnie , Yackel Edward
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This study aims to describe how the Army and the Army Medical Department matured as a learning organization (LO) during the period after the 2014 Military Health System Review through the incorporation of changes aimed at improving patient safety, data transparency and becoming a high-reliability organization (HRO). This study explores the relationship between HRO and LO concepts by adding to the body of knowledge in both disciplines.

Design/methodology/approach

Four large-scale system changes are presented and evaluated against the principles of the LO. Metric data were collected longitudinally and presented as submitted to several nationally-recognized organizations in healthcare quality and safety. Post initiative observations are paired with a corresponding LO principle to assess US Army Medical Command’s (MEDCOM’s) maturation as a LO. System changes/improvements and the advancement of LO principles are discussed.

Findings

System improvements, analyzed critically alongside paired LO principles, show strong correlation between high-reliability and LO principles. Despite inherent institutional barriers, this study demonstrates that, when leveraged effectively, the leadership hierarchy and command culture can accelerate transformation into an LO.

Originality/value

This study explores changes implemented in MEDCOM, as it evolved as a stronger LO. It demonstrates how healthcare organizations and other high-risk industries that embrace high-reliability concepts will become better LOs and expands current knowledge on how LO concepts in healthcare can affect better system accountability and improved patient safety. Organizations can learn from MEDCOM’s journey changes that can hasten progress toward adoption of LO principles, especially in hierarchical organizations.
Invention of sustainable geopolymer concrete made with low calcium waste wood ash
Authors: Arunkumar K. , Muthiah Muthukannan , A. Suresh Kumar , A. Chithambar Ganesh , R. Kanniga Devi
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Inefficient waste disposal technique and cement production methodology caused significant environmental impacts, leading to global warming. The purpose of the research was to invent an effective, sustainable technology to use the wastes and alternate for cement in concrete. Geopolymer technology could be the most desirable solution to use the wastes into an effective product.

Design/methodology/approach

The wood waste ash derived from nearby tea shops was used as an alternate binder for fly ash. The replacement of WWA with FA was varied from 0 to 100% at 10% intervals. In this research, setting and mechanical features of Geopolymer Concrete (GPC) along with Waste wood ash (WWA) was carried out. The influence of wood waste ash in the microstructure of the GPC was also assessed using scanning electron microscope and X-ray diffraction analysis.

Findings

The findings revealed that 30% replacement of wood waste ash was performed higher in all measured features. Besides, the formation of different phases was also observed with the inclusion of wood waste ash.

Research limitations/implications

The demand for fly ash was increased in recent years, and the fly-based GPC has required more alkaline solution and temperature curing. Hence, there was a research gap on finding an alternative binder for fly ash.

Originality/value

The research novelty was to use the wood waste ash, which has inbuilt alkaline compounds on the production of sustainable geopolymer. The finding showed that the wood waste ash could be alternate fly ash that eliminates the environmental impacts and economic thrust.
Processing trauma in psychoanalysis in ‘real’ time and in dreams: the convergence of past, present and future during COVID‐19
Authors: Bryon Deborah
Published: July 2021

In the current collective unrest, we and our analysands are living in real time and need vantage points from which to make meaning, as subjective experience of time is collapsing. For many analysands, the past is being relived in the present, with no imaginable future. During the time of COVID‐19, dreams are providing a valuable mechanism in working with atemporal emotional trauma, previously uncontextualized. Dream metaphor can provide a transitional space to move around in within the analytic framework. This paper explores a variety of dreams from individual analysands demonstrating different ways of conceptualizing personal and collective experience, bridging between the past, present, and future. Parallels between feeling states related to the current condition and unprocessed implicit memories from the past will be examined, as a vehicle for processing past trauma. Dreams expressing current states of dread for an unimaginable future, as well compensatory dreams showing a hopeful vision of the future will be considered.
Beneficial effects of sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors on left ventricular mass in patients with diabetes mellitus
Authors: Kosugi Daisuke , Inaba Hidefumi , Kaido Yosuke , Ito Saya , Hirobata Tomonao , Toyofuku Mamoru , Matsuoka Takaaki , Inoue Gen
Published: July 2021

Background

Sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) has recently been suggested to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) is associated with cardiovascular events. Diabetic macroangiopathy is a crucial complication in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). This study examined the effect of SGLT2i on LVH in patients with type 2 DM (T2DM).

Methods

The retrospective cohort study was conducted in consecutive outpatients with T2DM from 2010 to 2020. Left ventricular mass index (LVMI) was used as an indicator of LVH based on echocardiography. The minimum follow‐up period was 1 year. After propensity score‐matching for clinical profiles, patients who underwent annual echocardiography twice for a routine checkup and took SGLT2i were defined to the SGLT2i group, whereas patients without SGLT2 inhibitors were defined to the non‐SGLT2 group. SGLT2i was administered after baseline echocardiography followed by a second examination.

Results

LVMI levels in the SGLT2i group (n = 169) significantly decreased from baseline compared with those in the non‐SGLT2i group (n = 169), % changes in LVMI2.7(g/m2.7) in median (interquartile ranges [IQR]) were − 7.7 (−18.7, 2.5) vs −3.6 (−14.3, 5.8), respectively, P = 0.017). In a subgroup analysis, LVMI levels in the patients who had LVH in the SGLT2i group more significantly decreased than those without LVH, % changes in LVMI2.7(g/m2.7) in median (IQR) were −13.5 (−22.1, −2.4) vs −2.8 (−12.6, 9.8), respectively, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

SGLT2i treatment was shown to improve LVH in patients with T2DM and may play a pivotal role in the future treatment of diabetic cardiovascular complications.
Whole genome sequencing identifies a homozygous nonsense mutation in the JPH2 gene in Shih Tzu dogs with progressive retinal atrophy
Authors: Urkasemsin G. , Pongpanich M. , Sariya L. , Kongcharoen A. , Buddhirongawatr R. , Rungarunlert S. , Ferreira J. N. , Chetruengchai W. , Phokaew C. , Srichomthong C. , Shotelersuk V.
Published: July 2021

Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), common autosomal recessive disorder affecting several dog breeds including Shih Tzu, is characterized by degeneration of photoreceptors leading to blindness. To identify PRA genetic variants, three affected and 15 unaffected Shih Tzu and 20 non‐Shih Tzu were recruited. Dogs underwent ophthalmologic examination and electroretinography, revealing hallmark retina pathological changes and an abnormal electroretinography in all affected dogs but not in unaffected dogs. WGS was performed. Non‐synonymous homozygous variants were searched in coding regions of genes involved in retinal diseases/development; the criterion was that variants should only be present in affected dogs and should be absent in both unaffected and 46 genomes of dogs (from an available evolutionary database). Only one out of the 109 identified variants is predicted to harbor a high‐impact consequence, a nonsense c.452A>C (p.L151X) in the JPH2 gene. The genotype of JPH2 variant in all 38 dogs was determined with Sanger sequencing. All three affected dogs, but none of the 35 unaffected, were homozygous for the nonsense variant. JPH2 has been previously found to be expressed in several excitable cells/tissues including retina photoreceptors. Hence, JPH2 is a candidate gene for PRA in Shih Tzu.
Supraclavicular versus infraclavicular approach for ultrasound‐guided right subclavian venous catheterisation: a randomised controlled non‐inferiority trial
Authors: Kim Y. J. , Ma S. , Yoon H. K. , Lee H. C. , Park H. P. , Oh H.
Published: July 2021

Infraclavicular and supraclavicular approaches are used for subclavian venous catheterisation. We hypothesised that the supraclavicular approach is non‐inferior to the infraclavicular approach in terms of safety during ultrasound‐guided right subclavian venous catheterisation. We randomly allocated 401 neurosurgical patients undergoing ultrasound‐guided right subclavian venous catheterisation into supraclavicular (n = 200) and infraclavicular (n = 201) groups. We assessed catheterisation‐related complications (primary outcome measure) including catheter misplacement and mechanical complications (arterial puncture, haematoma formation, pneumothorax and haemothorax). We also recorded catheterisation success rates and time required for venous puncture and catheterisation. The number (proportion) of patients with catheterisation‐related complications was six (3.0%) in the supraclavicular group and 27 (13.4%) in the infraclavicular group, mean difference (95%CI) −10.4% (−15.7 to −5.1%), p < 0.001, with a significant difference also seen for catheter misplacement. Except for a shorter time (median (IQR [range]) required for venous puncture in the supraclavicular group, being 9 (6–20 [2–138]) vs. 13 (8–20 [3–99]) s, the incidence of mechanical complications and other catheterisation characteristics were similar between the two groups. We recommend the supraclavicular approach for ultrasound‐guided right subclavian venous catheterisation.
Differences in the eyelid and buccal microbiome between open‐angle glaucoma and uveitic glaucoma
Authors: Lee Ji‐Woong , Lim Su‐Ho , Shin Jong Hoon , Lee Young , Seo Je Hyun
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Microbiomes have immunoregulatory functions and may be involved in the pathophysiology of eye diseases. However, the effects of microbiomes on uveitic glaucoma (UG) and open‐angle glaucoma (OAG) have not been sufficiently investigated. This study analysed differences in eyelid and buccal microbiomes between UG and OAG using metagenomic technology.

Methods

Eyelid and buccal specimens were collected from 34 UG and 62 OAG patients. The taxonomic composition of the microbiome was determined via 16S rRNA gene sequencing, operational taxonomic unit analysis and diversity analysis. Differential gene expression analysis (DEG) and principal component analyses (PCoA) determined taxon differences between the microbiomes of the UG and OAG patients. Subgroup analysis according to age and baseline IOP was performed.

Results

There was no significant difference in alpha‐diversity between the microbiomes of UG and OAG patients. Further, PCoA revealed no differences in eyelid microbiome between the UG and OAG groups, but significant differences were found in buccal microbiome between the groups, especially in a subgroup of OAG patients with normal IOP. DEG analysis of the eyelid microbiome revealed various taxa differences, including the enrichment of Rhodococcus in UG samples over OAG samples. Taxa such as Lactobacillus and Proteus were significantly depleted (q‐value = 9.98e−6 and q‐value = 1.38 × 10−4, respectively) in the buccal microbiome of UG patients, whereas Enterococcus was enriched (q‐value = 5.26e−5).

Conclusions

This study showed that the buccal microbiome in UG differs from that in OAG; reduced Lactobacillus was observed in UG. These results suggest that apart than OAG, microbiome composition may be a factor in the pathogenesis of UG.
Children may need higher vancomycin doses to achieve therapeutic levels
Authors: Oskarsdottir Kristin , Haraldsson Asgeir , Thorkelsson Thordur , Oskarsdottir Thorunn , Gunnarsson Petur , Thors Valtyr
Published: July 2021

Aim

Vancomycin is frequently used in paediatric hospitals. Data suggest trough levels of 10–20 mg/L are needed to achieve bacterial killing. This study aimed to evaluate if commonly used dosing regimens are efficient in reaching these levels and if therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) was appropriately used.

Methods

All children receiving intravenous vancomycin at the Children´s Hospital Iceland between 2012 and 2016 were included. Vancomycin trough levels were registered. Student t test, Wilcoxon test and regression models were used for statistical analysis.

Results

A total of 105 children received 163 vancomycin treatments (55/105 neonates). Average daily dose in neonates was 23.4 mg/kg/day and 38.4 mg/kg/day for older children. No TDM was done in 58 treatments (35.6%). First trough levels were <10mg/L in 52.4% and <15mg/L in 92% of cases. Therapeutic levels were less likely achieved in children with malignancy (11.8%) compared with others (36.8%, p = 0.09).

Conclusions

In more than half of the cases, trough drug levels were <10 mg/L and malignancy was associated with the lowest probability of reaching therapeutic levels. This study suggests that starting doses of vancomycin in children should be higher, especially in relation to malignant diseases and supports the importance of antibiotic stewardship to ensure optimal antibiotic use.
Suppression of MyoD induces spontaneous adipogenesis in skeletal muscle progenitor cell culture
Authors: Yamanouchi Keitaro , Nakamura Katsuyuki , Takeuchi Shiho , Hosoyama Tohru , Matsuwaki Takashi , Nishihara Masugi
Published: July 2021

The degree of intramuscular adipose tissue accumulation is one of the factors affecting meat quality. Accumulation of adipocytes is also observed under the pathological condition of skeletal muscle such as muscular dystrophy and sarcopenia. The origin of adipocytes seen in skeletal muscle is mesenchymal progenitor cells that can give rise to both adipocytes and fibroblasts. In the present study, we demonstrated that siRNA‐mediated suppression of MyoD expression in rat skeletal muscle progenitor cell culture, which comprises both myogenic satellite cells and mesenchymal progenitor cells, resulted in diminished myotube formation and an unexpected spontaneous appearance of white adipocytes. Suppressing myomaker expression also resulted in complete absence of myotube formation without reducing MyoD expression, but no adipogenesis was seen in this scenario, indicating that decline in MyoD expression rather than decreased myotube formation is necessary to induce adipogenesis. In addition, spontaneous adipogenesis induced by suppressing MyoD expression in culture was inhibited by the conditioned medium from control culture, indicating that anti‐adipogenic factor(s) are secreted from MyoD‐positive myogenic cells. These results indicate the presence of regulatory mechanism on adipogenesis by myogenic cells.
The state and my happiness: Youth mental health, citizenship education and discursive contestations in contemporary Indonesia
Authors: Wijaya Mulya Teguh , Salvi Francesca , Gorczynski Paul , Wells Brown Tanya , Sims‐Schouten Wendy
Published: July 2021

Complementing studies on youth mental health that were mainly depoliticised, this article offers a discursive examination of youth mental health in an Indonesian educational context. We argue that subject positions enabled by the discourse of mental health were at odds with dominant constructions of an ideal Indonesian citizen. Drawing upon qualitative data from 22 teachers and 20 students in a junior high school in Indonesia and analyses of educational policies and textbooks, we identified three discourses underpinning the ideal(ised) constructions of young Indonesian citizen, namely, neoliberalism, (masculine) patriotism and (religious) moralism and discussed how these inhibited youth mental health.
Corporate governance and wealth and income inequality
Authors: Brou Daniel , Chatterjee Aroop , Coakley Jerry , Girardone Claudia , Wood Geoffrey
Published: July 2021

Research Question/Issue

There has been growing concern about rising social inequality and its effects on general well‐being and the polity. Much of this rise can be traced to changes in the manner in which corporations or firms are governed and how this impacts on income and wealth dispersion. This study systematically reviews the most recent literature on external and internal corporate governance (CG) that deals with the issue of income and wealth inequality.

Research Findings/Insights

External mechanisms such as institutional regime (defined in terms of varieties of capitalism—liberal or coordinated markets) and financialization reveal important insights, often implicitly, into what makes or sustains inequality. The rise of the platform business model raises explicit concerns about increasing wealth and wage inequality. This is because it is associated with a rapidly growing precariat of gig workers, Big Tech entrepreneurs with untrammeled levels of control and extreme levels of personal wealth, and widespread tax avoidance despite record profits. The literature on internal CG is somewhat constrained in its reliance on agency theory and a focus on shareholder primacy. This only provides limited insights on how internal CG mechanisms impact on inequality. However, in recent work, the issue of perverse incentives posed by CEO reward systems and their impact on organizational sustainability and wage dispersion are receiving increasing attention.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

Some studies do attempt to widen the lens, and we suggest a greater focus on theorizing codetermination and alternate forms of ownership, non‐monetary incentives, the power of the Big Tech companies, and those strands of comparative institutional analyses that explore the determinants of internal CG structures.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

The study reasserts the importance of the firm as a central analytical paradigm in understanding income and wealth inequality and that, in seeking to ameliorate the latter's negative consequences, more attention needs to be accorded to the governance and regulation of firms.