bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combining online market research methods for investigating brand alignment: the case of Nespresso
Authors: Ranfagni Silvia , Faraoni Monica , Zollo Lamberto , Vannucci Virginia
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a research approach to investigate brand alignment by exploiting textual data from online brand communities in the coffee industry. Specifically, consumer brand associations from user-generated content (UGC) and company brand associations from firm-generated content (FGC) are explored to measure the alignment between brand identity and brand image. The selected context of research is the beverage industry wherein companies are called on to develop appropriate digital websites and brand communication strategies to enhance the consumers' brand experience.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors introduce a research approach that integrates netnography with text mining analysis. Since brand associations were the basis of the study’s analysis, the authors focused on text mining procedures, providing data (co-occurrences) corresponding to brand associations that consumers perceive and that the company communicates. Data were used to develop the measurements of brand alignment.

Findings

The main findings of this research highlight the importance for both scholars and practitioners of determining brand alignment of beverage products in online communities. Knowing the alignment between the way a company communicates its brand identity and how this is perceived by consumers allows for effectively reviewing brand communication.

Originality/value

Although the combined analysis of the alignment between brand image and brand identification has received attention in marketing literature, most scholars have neglected how to measure brand alignment. This is a need for many marketing managers in the coffee industry who are now moving in digital environments where the role of consumers is not that of receivers of brand communication but rather that of cocreators of brand value.
Urbanicity and nutrition: evidence from rural–urban migrants in China
Authors: Sun Qian , Li Xiaoyun , Rahut Dil Bahadur
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of urbanicity on rural–urban migrants' dietary diversity and nutrition intake and whether its effect differs across various urban environments of migrants.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the individual- and time-invariant fixed effects (two-way FE) model and five-year panel data from the China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS), this paper estimates a linear and nonlinear relationship between urbanicity and nutrition. The paper also explores the spatial heterogeneity between rural–urban migrants and rural–suburban migrants. Dietary diversity, total energy intake and the shares of energy obtained from protein and fat, respectively, are used to measure rural–urban migrants' nutrition on both quality and quantity aspects.

Findings

The study shows that rural–urban migrants have experienced access to more diverse, convenient and prepared foods, and the food variety consumed is positively associated with community urbanicity. Energy intake is positively and significantly affected by community urbanicity, and it also varies with per capita household income. The obvious inverseU-shaped relationship reveals that improving community urbanicity promotes an increase in the shares of energy obtained from protein and fat at a decreasing rate, until reaching the urbanicity index threshold of 66.69 and 54.26, respectively.

Originality/value

This paper focuses on the nutritional status of rural–urban migrants, an important pillar for China's development, which is often neglected in the research. It examines the urbanicity and the nutrition of migrants in China, which provides a new perspective to understand the dietary and nutritional intake among migrants in the economic and social development. Moreover, the urbanicity index performs better at measuring urban feathers rather than the traditional rural/urban dichotomous classification.
The hype factor of digital technologies in AEC
Authors: Bosch-Sijtsema Petra , Claeson-Jonsson Christina , Johansson Mikael , Roupe Mattias
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to focus on 11 digital technologies (i.e. building information modeling, artificial intelligence and machine learning, 3D scanning, sensors, robots/automation, digital twin, virtual reality, 3D printing, drones, cloud computing and self-driving vehicles) that are portrayed in future trend reports and hype curves. The study concentrates on the current usage and knowledge of digital technologies in the Swedish architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) industry to gain an insight in the possible expectations and future trajectory of these digital technologies.

Design/methodology/approach

The study applies an abductive approach which is based on three different types of methods. These methods are a literature and document study which focused on 11 digital technologies, two workshops with industry (13 participants) and an online survey (N = 84).

Findings

The paper contributes to a current state analysis of the Swedish AEC industry concerning digital technologies and discusses the trajectory of these technologies for the AEC industry. The paper identifies hype factors, in which the knowledge of a digital technology is related to its usage. From the hype factors, four zones that show different stages of digital technology usage and maturity in the industry are induced.

Originality/value

The contribution of the paper is twofold. The paper shows insight into opportunities, the current barriers, use and knowledge of digital technologies for the different actors in the AEC industry. Furthermore, the study shows that the AEC industry is behind the traditional Gartner hype curves and contributes with defining four zones for digital technologies for the Swedish AEC industry: confusion, excitement, experimentation and integration.
The benefits of inclusion for disability measurement in the workplace
Authors: M. Santuzzi Alecia , Martinez Jesus Jose , Keating Robert T.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The formal reporting of disability to an employing organization is inconsistent and likely an underestimate of the true numbers of workers with disabilities and the presence of various types of disabilities. This issue interferes with an organization's count of such workers, as well as efforts to set priorities and develop practices to support workers with disabilities. The authors argue that creating inclusive work environments not only improves worker well-being (as suggested in past research) but also improves their reactions to the process of formal reporting of disability in the workplace.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 160 working adults in the United States who reported disabilities or health conditions that may qualify as disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act (1990, as amended in 2008) completed a survey that measured perceptions of the workplace environment and reactions to a frequently used disability disclosure form.

Findings

When controlling for age of respondents, anticipated disability stigma and inclusion in the workplace predicted different reactions to a disability disclosure request. Anticipated stigma was associated with more negative emotion, concerns about privacy and others' reactions to their responses on the disclosure form. Inclusion in the workplace was associated with higher ratings for appropriateness of the measure, positive emotion and less negative emotion.

Originality/value

Although research has identified associations between workplace inclusion and general worker experiences, such as job satisfaction and intentions to quit, this work uncovers a benefit of inclusion to required measurement processes in organizations. The unique contributions of inclusion and implications for workplace practices are discussed.
Environmental-specific servant leadership as a strategic tool to accomplish environmental performance: a case of China
Authors: Siddiquei Ahmad , Asmi Fahad , Asadullah Muhammad Ali , Mir Farhan
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The Chinese firms are keenly focused on reducing their environmental footprints as part of the competitive strategy. Within the context of sustainable organizations in China, we test a multilevel framework that examined the impact of environmental-specific servant leadership on the green individual (pro-environmental behavior) and team (project green performance) outcomes within projects. Using social identity theory, we theorize and test the mediating role of green self-identity (individual level) and team green identification (team level) in the relationships between environmental-specific servant leadership, pro-environmental behavior and project green performance.

Design/methodology/approach

We used survey questionnaires to collect multi-level and multi-wave data from 42 ongoing project-based sustainable organisations in China. The multilevel team to individual-level hypothesis were analyzed using multilevel-modeling via Mplus, while team level hypotheses were tested using ordinary least squares regression.

Findings

The multilevel regression analysis showed that environmental-specific servant leadership has a trickle-down effect of green self-identity, which subsequently predicts pro-environmental behavior. The ordinary least squares regression results demonstrated that environmental-specific servant leadership predicts project green performance via team green identification. Also, environmental-specific servant leadership has a positive and direct impact on pro-environmental behavior and project green performance.

Research limitations/implications

We offer community and service dimension of leadership as a determinant of environmental performance at multiple levels. We provide managerial and policy implications to Chinese organizations striving to reposition themselves as eco-friendly organizations both nationally and globally.

Originality/value

The study is among the first to understand the role of environmental-specific servant leadership in predicting individual-level and team-level environment-related mediator and outcomes simultaneously.
A capability maturity model for assessment of active learning in higher education
Authors: Garbin Fernanda Gobbi de Boer , ten Caten Carla Schwengber , Jesus Pacheco Diego Augusto de
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Although active learning methodologies are recognized as an effective means to achieve expected educational demands, in practice, the teaching and learning processes are still widely characterized by traditional pedagogy aspects. As a result, teaching innovations in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education are carried out in isolation in specific disciplines, programs or departments. To addresses these challenges and to stimulate useful teaching innovations, this study aims to propose the capability maturity model to active learning (CMMAL) for assessing the maturity level of active learning methodologies in higher education institutions (HEIs).

Design/methodology/approach

The CMMAL provides inputs for planning and decision-making, identifying variables such as the current state of teaching and learning processes, project management, team development, allocation of resources and infrastructure and the choice of evaluation and assessment methods. From the relevant literature, the primary aspects that impact on active learning were identified and incorporated into the structure of the model. Next, a survey was performed with 295 STEM professors and experts validating the scope of the model proposed.

Findings

The findings demonstrated the contribution of the CMMAL mainly to (1) assess the maturity levels of active methodologies in higher education and (2) stimulate the institutionalization of active learning practices in HEIs to minimize some problems related to the dissemination of new teaching practices.

Practical implications

The primary practical and academic contribution of our study is the proposition of an artifact with a scope compatible with the need of the HEIs for the implementation of active learning methodologies. This paper presents a different perspective of current literature in active learning in STEM education, introducing a model that contributes to open the dialogue with HEIs interested in better understand and improve the performance in student-centered pedagogy.

Originality/value

The model also informs and leads to specific recommendations for HEIs seeking to enhance the performance of and alter the culture around active learning methodologies.
Becoming a smart old town – How to manage stakeholder collaboration and cultural heritage
Authors: Snis Ulrika Lundh , Olsson Anna Karin , Bernhard Iréne
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Within the ongoing digitalization of society and dimensions of integration, equality, citizen needs, sustainability and quality of life are of increasing importance as driving forces for cities to become smart. The purpose of this paper is to examine participatory management challenges in becoming a smart old town in the context of cultural heritage.

Design/methodology/approach

An explorative approach was applied on a qualitative single case study including in-depth interviews with 21 stakeholders representing local entrepreneurs, nonprofit organizations, the municipality, politicians, tourism organization and residents of an old town district in a Norwegian city. Additionally, participatory observations and document studies were performed. Findings were continuously validated with the respondents.

Findings

The present study contributes with stakeholder views on challenges arising from the development of a smart old town and suggests possible innovative solutions for participatory management. The transformation of a city with cultural heritage into a smart city require efforts that go beyond smart ICT implementations into issues of social sustainability.

Research limitations/implications

The study brings forward the opportunities that lie in the dynamics of interaction between the spirit of cultural heritage and the body of participatory management. It con-tributes by responding to calls for further research to deepen the insights into stakeholder inclusion in cultural heritage-based city transformation. This explorative study has its limitations as it is based on one qualitative single case.

Practical implications

Participatory management insights and recommendations for smart city transformation are provided.

Social implications

The study addresses socially sustainable outcomes to create democratic conditions that promote inclusion and community building by understanding what people need and expect from the place where they live and work.

Originality/value

This study is positioned as unique in terms of its complex nature of transforming an old town to become a smart old town based on cultural heritage and an open and coordinated inclusion of stakeholders. Smartness in context of city transformation is revealed in many dimensions ranging from technology-driven to more participant-driven.
The dark and bright sides of policy uncertainty: do too many cooks spoil the broth?
Authors: Hoang Khanh , Tran Long Phi , Vu Van Thuy , Vu Minh Duy
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the nonlinear relationship between corporate social performance (CSP) and economic policy uncertainty (EPU).

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses panel regression techniques to examine a sample consisting of UK-listed non-financial companies during 2000–2018.

Findings

The authors found that EPU increases corporate social responsibility which suggests that firms become more socially proactive during the period of heightened EPU. Such countermeasure enhances CSP and is likely a part of a competitive strategy and an insurance mechanism to protect firms against uncertainty in long-term. Further analysis shows a nonlinear relationship between the two factors, suggesting that in a heightened uncertain business environment, the insurance benefit generated by CSP is neutralised by the corresponding cost and, therefore, the positive relationship between EPU and CSP reverses.

Originality/value

This paper is the first to find a nonlinear relationship between CSP and EPU, indicating that too much uncertainty in macroeconomic policies deteriorates the benefits of CSP to the point that the CSP – EPU relationship becomes negative. The results suggest that policy uncertainty has both the bright side and the dark side where too many cooks eventually spoil the broth.
Wayfinding in hospital landscape: syntactical analysis of planting design in hospitals in Kerman, Iran
Authors: Zabihi Ali , Safizadeh Mina , Hedayati Marzbali Massoomeh
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Hospital landscape is not a useless space within hospital buildings anymore. It is considered as a supportive area providing mental and physical peace. However, the planting design of the hospital landscape and the way it should be in order to not disrupt wayfinding performance is neglected. This paper, which is a case study, aims at investigating the effects of planting design in Kerman hospitals’ landscapes on the users’ wayfinding using space syntax techniques.

Design/methodology/approach

This research focuses on the effects of planting design on the users’ wayfinding in hospitals. In so doing, library research, computer simulation and analysis with the University College London (UCL) Depthmap software, and comparison techniques are used. Based on axial maps, the measures of integration, connectivity and intelligibility are considered for analysing the wayfinding process of individuals.

Findings

The findings show that planting configurations in the hospital landscape can affect individuals’ wayfinding. Integrated and regular planting design in addition to combining planted areas with the hospital buildings can pave the way for intelligible space and easier wayfinding.

Originality/value

According to the authors’ knowledge, the current study is the first to use the space syntax techniques in the health-care landscape architecture in terms of planting design and wayfinding. As wayfinding is an important issue in health-care spaces, the study findings can greatly help the health-care building designers and the related organizations to pay attention to the hospital landscape as much as hospital indoors.
Blockchain-based smart contract for international business – a framework
Authors: Sinha Deepankar , Roy Chowdhury Shuvo
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Cross border trade, involving different business environments between the sellers’ and buyers’ countries, may result in conflicts because of asymmetry in the information structure across the borders. The International Chambers of Commerce (ICC) has laid down ground rules on terms of shipment and payment, enabling harmonization and standardization of business process, and fixing of responsibilities for international trade. The international commercial (INCO) terms by ICC define the duties, obligations and cost borne by the exporter and the importer. An exporter’s uncertainty looms once the goods cross his/her border. Therefore, there is a need for a smart contract that is secured, transparent, legitimate and trustworthy. The authors propose a blockchain technology-based smart global contract (BTGC) framework for international trade.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the authors develop the framework based on value chain analysis (VCA) of international trade and an ontology-driven-blockchain-design approach. The paper analyzes the sequence of activities in the value chain of global trade, the terms of the contract, the data structure templates, the validation rules and the points-of-failure, and proposes the smart contract blockchain structure.

Findings

This paper proposes the BTGC framework considering the INCO terms 2020; it provides the validation rules and the probability of failures; and identifies the elements that cause the halting of contracts and conditions of creation of side blockchains. The framework also includes the governance of the BTGC system.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed framework not only has implications at the firm level as it automates and secures a global sale contract but also is expected to harmonize the global-trade process as well. The developers may use the attributes, data structure templates and the rules identified in this paper for developing the GC software. Future research may consider using case analysis, class diagrams and the related steps for developing the blockchain software.

Originality/value

This paper proposes a complete value chain of global contract (GC) concerning exports, an ontology of GC and a blockchain-based smart-contract framework based on global standards. Besides, it specifies the elements of fraud (such as the non-integration of side chains) and uncertainty, i.e. the probability of failures. Such a framework will harmonize the global-trade process and build an international standards for smart GC based on blockchain technology (ISSGCBT), which is not yet done.
Personality types and managerial styles: a phenomenological approach
Authors: Pratama Andika Putra , Pritasari Adita , Hidayanti Nurfaisa , Tampubolon Marina Natalia , Mulyono Nur Budi
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The paper aims not only to provide evidence of the Jungian personality theory in the context of management through managers' lived experience but also to ask a deeper question of what this theory–practice coherence entails.

Design/methodology/approach

Situated as preliminary, this study used a phenomenological approach to detail managerial accounts across four managers in an Indonesian higher education institution. A survey of personality types using an online Jungian-based personality assessment tool was conducted, followed by an in-depth interview with selected managers.

Findings

The study provides the following evidence: the coherence between the perceived managerial practices and the theorized cognitive processes of each personality type and between the way the instrument measures personality types and the theorized cognitive processes.

Research limitations/implications

While the study faces an issue of data saturation, given the sample size, the study has conducted the process of triangulation by sampling managers with resembling cognitive processes as theorized (INTJ, with ENTJ; ISFJ with ESFJ). A broader implication is around the use of qualitative, phenomenological approach to the study of personality types and cognitive processes.

Practical implications

Promoting diverse ways of managing based on personality types, this paper includes implications specifically for developing managers in charge of core business processes in terms of flexibility when managing and leading a team.

Originality/value

This paper presents an account of how personality types (through their dominant cognitive functions) resonate with real-life managerial practices, connecting the descriptive nature of personality types and the normative nature of management.
Measuring the impact of perceived service quality on insured and uninsured patients’ satisfaction
Authors: Swain Swapnarag , Singh Rohit Kumar
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the difference in the pattern of influence of perceived service quality on insured and uninsured patients’ satisfaction levels.

Design/methodology/approach

This study follows a cross-sectional primary research design. A questionnaire survey method is implemented to collect primary data from 322 respondents who have received medical care during the past 1 year. A total of 168 respondents had a subscription to health insurance and 154 of them were without health insurance coverage. Data is analysed through factor analysis and multiple regression with SPSS-26.

Findings

This study identifies a critical difference in the pattern of influence of perceived service quality on patient satisfaction in the case of insured and uninsured patients. This difference is mainly related to the number of technical and functional service quality dimensions as significant predictors of insured and uninsured patients’ satisfaction.

Originality/value

The present study extends the existing body of knowledge related to perceived service quality and patient satisfaction with an interesting observation. Technical dimensions of perceived service quality act as equally important drivers of patient satisfaction in the case of both uninsured and insured patients. However, more number of functional service quality dimensions act as important drivers of patient satisfaction in the case of insured patients compared to uninsured patients. This serves as an important takeaway for health-care managers/administrators to identify areas of service quality need to be strengthened.
Mixed spin-3/2 and spin-2 nanowire: magnetic properties and hysteresis behaviors
Authors: El Kihel Karima , Aharrouch Rachid , Qahoom Yahya Al , Madani Mohamed , Hachem Nabil , El Bouziani Mohammed
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to investigate the magnetic properties and the hysteresis loops behavior of a ferrimagnetic cubic nanowire with mixed spins SA = 3/2 and SB = 2.

Design/methodology/approach

We have used the Monte Carlo simulation to examine the influences of the exchange interaction JB, the crystal field ∆ and the temperature on the magnetic properties and hysteresis loops of the nanowire. More exactly, we have shown the temperature dependence of the sublattice magnetizations (mA and mB) and the total magnetization (M) for several values of the Hamiltonian parameters, as well as the corresponding phase diagrams. Finally, the effect of an external magnetic field is studied by plotting the hysteresis loops of the system for different values of exchange interaction, crystal field and temperature.

Findings

The obtained results show the existence of second-order phase transitions, as well as the compensation behavior. Moreover, according to the values of the Hamiltonian parameters, the system can exhibit one, two or three hysteresis loops.

Originality/value

The magnetic nanowires are of great interest in experimental works, but without theoretical explanations, the experimental results cannot be clarified in depth. For this, we contribute through this theoretical study to understand the nanowires, especially those with mixed spins (2, 3/2).
Examining augmented reality adoption by consumers with highlights on gender and educational-level differences
Authors: Abed Salma S.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This study aims to explore the factors that could affect consumers’ adoption of augmented reality (AR) and investigate the interaction between gender and educational level on intention to adopt AR in developing countries as demonstrated here by Saudi Arabia.

Design/methodology/approach

The examined constructs were developed by integrating factors from the unified theory of acceptance and the use of technology (UTAUT2), including performance expectancy, expectancy effort, social influence, facilitating conditions, hedonic motivation and habit. Price value was eliminated and innovativeness was added to the examined constructs. Data were collected from 673 Saudi consumers through an online survey by implementing a convenience sampling. Furthermore, the effect of gender and education level on behavioral intention to adopt AR by consumers was examined.

Findings

The results of the regression analysis showed that the independent variables statistically significantly predict the consumers’ behavioral intention toward AR adoption with all the examined constructs. The proposed model was able to explain 84% of the variance of behavioral intention. Furthermore, there was a statistically significant interaction between the effects of gender and educational level on intention to adopt AR.

Practical implications

This study will clarify the relatively low diffusion rate of AR adoption in Saudi Arabia, which will help business owners and marketers to develop the right strategies, especially strategies that are associated to marketing and developing mobile applications by incorporating AR technologies, which will attract the attention of many users.

Originality/value

This is one of the few studies that has explored the intention to adopt AR by consumers by examining the UTAUT2 constructs in the Middle Eastern cultural contexts, in contrast to previous studies, specifically Saudi Arabia. This study further investigated the interaction between the effects of gender and educational level on intention to adopt AR.
Epidemiology of hidradenitis suppurativa in Taiwan: A 14‐year nationwide population‐based study
Authors: Liang Yun‐Tzu , Yeh Chih‐Jung , Huang Jing‐Yang , Wei James Cheng‐Chung
Published: February 2021

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), also called acne inversa, is an inflammatory skin disease, which causes HS patients to suffer from recurrent symptoms and severe comorbidities. The aim of this article was to provide evidence on the epidemiology of HS in Taiwan through a retrospective population‐based cohort study. The patients with International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification code 705.83 and Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical codes for HS treatments from 2000 to 2013 in the National Health Insurance Research Database, which covers 99.9% Taiwanese residents, were enrolled in this 14‐year nationwide population‐based cohort study. The age‐ and sex‐standardized prevalence, incidence, and the prescription pattern for HS were analyzed. The annual percent change (APC) was used to estimate the trend of prevalence and incidence of HS from 2000 to 2013. During 2000–2013 in Taiwan, the 14‐year period prevalence rate was 185.6/100 000 (95% confidence interval [CI], 177.3–194.3) with an APC of –2.96% (95% CI, −1.73 to −4.17) and the mean annual adjusted incidence rate from 2001 to 2013 was 11.8/100 000 (95% CI, 11.2–12.5) with an APC of −4.65% (95% CI, −3.32 to −5.95). Female : male ratio was 0.92 and the most common onset age was 15–24 years. Major treatments were systemic corticosteroids, systemic antihistamines, systemic antibiotics, and topical antibiotics. An increasing tendency of using systemic antibiotics was noted. In Taiwan, decreasing incidence and prevalence of HS was shown during 2000–2013. Relatively lower incidence and prevalence were noted compared to Western countries. Male predominance was revealed, and the use of systemic antibiotics became the mainstream in treatment for HS.
Identification of the Flavobacterium johnsoniae cysteate‐fatty acyl transferase required for capnine synthesis and for efficient gliding motility
Authors: Vences‐Guzmán Miguel Ángel , Peña‐Miller Rafael , Hidalgo‐Aguilar Nancy Adriana , Vences‐Guzmán Maritza Lorena , Guan Ziqiang , Sohlenkamp Christian
Published: February 2021

Sulfonolipids (SLs) are bacterial lipids that are structurally related to sphingolipids. Synthesis of this group of lipids seems to be mainly restricted to Flavobacterium, Cytophaga and other members of the phylum Bacteroidetes. These lipids have a wide range of biological activities: they can induce multicellularity in choanoflagellates, act as von Willebrand factor receptor antagonists, inhibit DNA polymerase, or function as tumour suppressing agents. In Flavobacterium johnsoniae, their presence seems to be required for efficient gliding motility. Until now, no genes/enzymes involved in SL synthesis have been identified, which has been limiting for the study of some of the biological effects these lipids have. Here, we describe the identification of the cysteate‐fatty acyl transferase Fjoh_2419 required for synthesis of the SL precursor capnine in F. johnsoniae. This enzyme belongs to the α‐oxoamine synthase family similar to serine palmitoyl transferases, 2‐amino‐3‐oxobutyrate coenzyme A ligase and 8‐amino‐7‐oxononanoate synthases. Expression of the gene fjoh_2419 in Escherichia coli caused the formation of a capnine‐derived molecule. Flavobacterium johnsoniae mutants deficient in fjoh_2419 lacked SLs and were more sensitive to many antibiotics. Mutant growth was not affected in liquid medium but the cells exhibited defects in gliding motility.
Review article: Have emergency department time‐based targets influenced patient care? A systematic review of qualitative literature
Authors: Walker Katie , Honan Bridget , Haustead Daniel , Mountain David , Gangathimmaiah Vinay , Forero Roberto , Mitchell Rob , Martini Ella , Tesch Greg , Bissett Ian , Jones Peter
Published: February 2021

Time‐based targets for ED length of stay were introduced in England in 2000, followed by the rest of the UK, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, and Australia after ED crowding was associated with poor quality of care and increased mortality. This systematic review evaluates qualitative literature to see if ED time‐based targets have influenced patient care quality. We included 13 studies from four countries, incorporating 617 interviews. We conclude that time‐based targets have impacted on the quality of emergency patient care, both positively and negatively. Successful implementation depends on whole hospital resourcing and engagement with targets.
Characterization of starches obtained from several native potato varieties grown in Cusco (Peru)
Authors: Martínez Patricia , Vilcarromero Darcy , Pozo Diego , Peña Fiorela , Manuel Cervantes‐Uc José , Uribe‐Calderon Jorge , Velezmoro Carmen
Published: February 2021

Ten native potato varieties grown in Cusco (at 3,672 m above sea level) were used for starches extraction (at a pilot scale), and their physicochemical, functional, morphological, and structural characteristics were assessed. The content of protein, apparent amylose and phosphorus ranged from 0.1% to 0.44%, 23.42% to 35.5%, and 0.07 to 0.10%, respectively. Starch granules revealed smooth surface, with ellipsoidal and spherical shapes, particle size analysis exhibited bimodal or multimodal distribution, while the averaged crystallinity was 27.7% assessed by XRD. Gelatinization temperatures of the starches ranged from 57.4 to 60.1 °C, 60.8 to 64.3 °C, and 68.4 to 71.1°C for To, Tp, and Tc, respectively; and the gelatinization enthalpies ranged from 15.4 to 17.1 J/g. Respect to pasting properties, the peak viscosity and setback viscosity ranged from 12,970 to 16,970 mPa⋅s and from 968 to 2498 mPa⋅s, respectively. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) revealed no significant relationship between apparent amylose content and thermal stability. Therefore, the results reveal subtle differences in the functional characteristics of the starches from the native varieties of potato studied, which can be recommended for food industry applications.

Practical Application

This study contributes to show several varieties of native potatoes from Cusco and their valorization as nonconventional starch source. Describing the physicochemical, functional, and structural characteristics of these starches could be useful for food industry applications.
Nicotine e‐cigarette vapor inhalation and self‐administration in a rodent model: Sex‐ and nicotine delivery‐specific effects on metabolism and behavior
Authors: Lallai Valeria , Chen Yen‐Chu , Roybal Mikayla M. , Kotha Eashan R. , Fowler James P. , Staben Andres , Cortez Angelique , Fowler Christie D.
Published: February 2021

E‐cigarettes, which deliver vaporized nicotine, have dramatically risen in popularity in recent years, despite many unanswered questions about safety, efficacy in reducing dependence, and overall impact on public health. Other factors, such as sex, also play an important role in determining behavioral and neurochemical responses to drugs of abuse. In these studies, we sought to develop a protocol for vaporized e‐cigarette nicotine self‐administration in rats, as a foundation to better understand the differing effects of nicotine exposure routes on behavior and physiological function. We report a novel method that elicits robust nicotine vapor self‐administration in male and female rats. Our findings indicate that 5‐mg/ml nicotine vape solution provides a high level of consistency in lever‐pressing behavior for both males and females. Moreover, in male rats, we find that such e‐cigarette nicotine vapor induces similar blood levels of nicotine's main metabolite, cotinine, as that found with intravenous nicotine self‐administration. Therefore, the breathing pattern during vapor exposure in males leads to similar levels of titrated nicotine intake as with intravenous nicotine self‐administration. Interestingly, a differential effect was found in the females, in which the same conditions of vapor exposure led to decreased cotinine levels with vapor compared to intravenous self‐administration. Finally, differences in nicotine‐mediated locomotion provide further support of the physiological effects of e‐cigarette vapor inhalation. Taken together, our findings reveal important sex differences in nicotine intake based on the route of exposure, and we further establish a protocol for nicotine vapor self‐administration in rats.
Prevalence and performance effects of neonatal disease in Thoroughbred and Standardbred foals in South‐Eastern Australia
Authors: Raidal SL , Hughes KJ , Eastwell B , Noble N , Lievaart J
Published: February 2021

Background

There is little information on foal mortality and the epidemiology of diseases in the neonatal period in Australian equine breeding enterprises.

Methodology

This was a prospective cohort study of 1219 foals on 15 breeding farms in south‐eastern Australia to identify the proportion of foals recognised on farm as abnormal at birth or within the first 48 h postpartum, determine the prevalence and risk factors for neonatal disease and assess the subsequent performance of foals in the study population.

Results

Overall, 27 foals died within 6 weeks of birth in the study population (2.2%), 142 foals (11.6%) were reported as abnormal at birth, and 304 (25.3%) were regarded as abnormal in the first 48 h postpartum. Non‐septic orthopaedic disease (NSOD) was the most common abnormality recognised. Premature foals and foals born after dystocia or abnormal parturition were more likely to have clinical abnormalities recognised, but the intensity of nursing care did not predict outcome. Prophylactic administration of antimicrobial drugs was associated with increased mortality and septic disease. Maternal periparturient problems, foal gender, abnormality at birth and the presence of septic disease or neonatal maladjustment were associated with decreased performance outcomes, whereas measures to assess and augment passive immune transfer were associated with improved athletic performance.

Conclusions and relevance

Information in the current study is important for the treatment and management decisions on farm and to identify industry welfare and production priorities. Although the incidence of all outcome variables was variable, factors recognised on farm in the peri‐parturient period were predictive of subsequent athletic performance.
Anticoagulation in sub‐Saharan Africa: Are direct oral anticoagulants the answer? A review of lessons learnt from warfarin
Authors: Semakula Jerome Roy , Kisa Geraldine , Mouton Johannes P. , Cohen Karen , Blockman Marc , Pirmohamed Munir , Sekaggya‐Wiltshire Christine , Waitt Catriona
Published: February 2021

Warfarin has existed for >7 decades and has been the anticoagulant of choice for many thromboembolic disorders. The recent introduction of direct‐acting oral anticoagulants (DOACs) has, however, caused a shift in preference by healthcare professionals all over the world. DOACs have been found to be at least as effective as warfarin in prevention of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation and in treatment of venous thromboembolism. In sub‐Saharan Africa, however, the widespread use of DOACs has been hampered mainly by their higher acquisition costs. As the drugs come off patent, their use in sub‐Saharan Africa is likely to increase. However, very few trials have been conducted in African settings, and safety concerns will need to be addressed with further study before widespread adoption into clinical practice.
Perceived social support, loneliness, and hope during the COVID‐19 Pandemic: Testing a mediating model in the UK, USA, and Israel
Authors: Bareket‐Bojmel Liad , Shahar Golan , Abu‐Kaf Sarah , Margalit Malka
Published: February 2021

Objectives

The COVID‐19 epidemic is affecting the entire world and hence provides an opportunity examine how people from different countries engage in hopeful thinking. The aim of this study was to examine the potentially facilitating role of perceived social support vis‐à‐vis hope as well as the mediating role of loneliness between perceived social support and hope. This mediating model was tested concurrently in the UK, the USA, and Israel.

Methods

In April 2020, as the first wave of the virus struck the three aforementioned countries, we assessed perceived social support, loneliness, and hope in 400 adults per country (N = 1,200). Assessments in the UK/USA were conducted via the Prolific platform, whereas in Israel they were conducted via Facebook/WhatsApp.

Results

In all three countries, perceived social support predicted elevated hope, although the effect was smallest in the UK. Loneliness mediated this effect in all three countries, although full mediation was attained only in the UK.

Conclusions

Perceived social support may facilitate hope in dire times, possibly through the reduction of loneliness.

Practitioner Points

Findings are consistent with respect to the potentially protective role of perceived social support vis‐à‐vis hope.

Perceived social support may increase hope through decreasing loneliness.

In the UK, the above‐noted mediating effect of loneliness appears to be stronger than in Israel and the USA.

Elevated levels of perceived social support should serve as a desired outcome in individual and group psychotherapy, as well as in community based interventions.
Accumulation of cellular prion protein within β‐amyloid oligomer plaques in aged human brains
Authors: Takahashi Reisuke H. , Yokotsuka Mayumi , Tobiume Minoru , Sato Yuko , Hasegawa Hideki , Nagao Toshitaka , Gouras Gunnar K.
Published: February 2021

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the main cause of dementia, and β‐amyloid (Aβ) is a central factor in the initiation and progression of the disease. Different forms of Aβ have been identified as monomers, oligomers, and amyloid fibrils. Many proteins have been implicated as putative receptors of respective forms of Aβ. Distinct forms of Aβ oligomers are considered to be neurotoxic species that trigger the pathophysiology of AD. It was reported that cellular prion protein (PrPC) is one of the most selective and high‐affinity binding partners of Aβ oligomers. The interaction of Aβ oligomers with PrPC is important to synaptic dysfunction and loss. The binding of Aβ oligomers to PrPC has mostly been studied with synthetic peptides, cell culture, and murine models of AD by biochemical and biological methods. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the relationship between Aβ oligomers and PrPC remain unclear, especially in the human brain. We immunohistochemically investigated the relationship between Aβ oligomers and PrPC in human brain tissue with and without amyloid pathology. We histologically demonstrate that PrPC accumulates with aging in human brain tissue even prior to AD mainly within diffuse‐type amyloid plaques, which are composed of more soluble Aβ oligomers without stacked β‐sheet fibril structures. Our results suggest that PrPC accumulating plaques are associated with more soluble Aβ oligomers, and appear even prior to AD. The investigation of PrPC accumulating plaques may provide new insights into AD.
Anti‐arrhythmic investigations in large animal models of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Saljic Arnela , Jespersen Thomas , Buhl Rikke
Published: February 2021

Atrial fibrillation (AF) constitutes an increasing health problem in the aging population. Animal models reflecting human phenotypes are needed to understand the mechanisms of AF, as well as to test new pharmacological interventions. In recent years, a number of large animal models, primarily pigs, goats, dog and horses have been used in AF research. These animals can to a certain extent recapitulate the human pathophysiological characteristics and serve as valuable tools in investigating new pharmacological interventions for treating AF. This review focuses on anti‐arrhythmic investigations in large animals. Initially, spontaneous AF in small and large mammals is discussed. This is followed by a short presentation of frequently used methods for inducing short‐ and long‐term AF. The major focus of the review is on anti‐arrhythmic compounds either frequently used in the human clinic (ranolazine, flecainide, vernakalant and amiodarone) or being promising new AF medicine candidates (IK,Ach, ISK,Ca and IK2P blockers).

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed issue on Preclinical Models for Cardiovascular disease research (BJP 75th Anniversary). To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v179.5/issuetoc
Emerging interstices in communities of innovation
Authors: Somers Carrielle , Stockstrom Christoph , Henseler Jörg
Published: February 2021

Online communities are an important source of distributed intelligence and novelty for any firm. Their evolving independence exhibits purpose and progress of the individuals in them. However, research on community innovation is disparate, with literature enshrouded in macroperspectives of a firm's largest external source of innovation. Utilizing critical interpretive synthesis, we uncover three dominant perspectives in literature on community innovation—namely, outside‐in, epistemic and competitive. We then propose a multilevel perspective of communities to explore three levels of innovation context. In closing, we examine a missing mesoperspective in literature and present four dynamic stages of exchange in communities—(i) convergence and design, (ii) interaction, (iii) interchange and (iv) productive synergy. With this final and main contribution, we apply a conceptual multilevel perspective to the same sample of 132 articles, previously used to demonstrate the three dominant macroperspectives. In doing so, we reconceptualize diversified knowledge in community literature and acknowledge the innovation context of independent individuals and groups in the community. We hope that scholars of open innovation use variations of the multilevel perspective for further theory construction as a lens into the context of innovation for individual, group and community innovation outcomes. The interconnectivity brought by these levels also creates challenges and opportunities for practitioners, wishing to engage with or design online communities to influence individual, group and community outcomes and motivations.
Fiscal integration with internal trade: Quantifying the effects of federal transfers in Canada
Authors: Tombe Trevor , Winter Jennifer
Published: February 2021

Fiscal transfers between regions exist within many countries. Explicit transfers, such as Canada's equalization program, redistribute funds directly. Countless federal revenue and spending programs do so indirectly. Like capital flows between countries, such transfers interact with trade and affect the distribution of economic activity within and between subnational jurisdictions. Previous research has largely abstracted from trade considerations; we fill this gap. With the aid of a rich quantitative model and detailed data on within‐country trade and financial flows, we uncover important effects of fiscal transfers on provincial income, migration and national GDP in Canada. The effects are large. Transfers lower Alberta's real income by over 8% and its population by over 12% and increase Prince Edward Island's real income by 30% and its population by 50%. As employment shifts to lower productivity regions, we find transfers shrink Canada's real GDP by 0.8% and income‐sensitive transfers do so by as much as 1.2%—equal to $19 to $28 billion today. Finally, fiscal transfers affect the size and distribution of gains from internal trade liberalization and spread gains across all regions, even if policy (like the New West Partnership) liberalizes trade among only some.