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Different types of organizations use certifications to reduce information asymmetry in an extensive range of business activities. In some cases, the widespread use of certifications can lead to multiple competing and overlapping standards. Some organizations also obtain similar certifications in a process defined as over‐certification, which is understudied in the literature. The primary objective of this study is to identify the determinants of the over‐certification process, specifically regarding the influence of stakeholders that motivate organizations to engage in over‐certification. Grounded in both signaling and stakeholder theories, this study confirms the isomorphic effect of stakeholders' pressures that creates different motivations for using different (but similar) certifications. An empirical analysis of a sample of 418 European organizations highlights that the decoupling in the interest in certifications is the main antecedent of over‐certification in relation to corporate social responsibility‐related certifications. Our results also show that the occurrence of over‐certification in organizations is mainly due to its ability to impact corporate reputation, confirming the signaling value of different (but similar) certifications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, laser‐induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) are generated on the surface of thin films of poly(trimethylene terephthalate) (PTT) fabricated by spin coating on silicon. Previous studies have shown the appearance of LIPSS in this type of materials with femtosecond laser pulses in the near‐infrared region of the spectrum, despite the extremely low absorption of the polymer. The present work consists of an exploration of the effect of adding complexity to the femtosecond laser fields employed for irradiation. Changes in the repetition rate of the pulse train, the pulse duration, and the pulse temporal chirp are explored, and conditions for optimum LIPSS formation are identified. The effects of these modifications on the polymer surface topography, assessed by atomic force microscopy, are described and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to investigate how supporters perceive and react to environmental messages that call for reducing the environmental impact of sporting events. Based on prospect theory, we randomly provided 1423 supporters attending football events in Europe with (1) a negative (perceived loss for supporters), (2) a neutral (no perceived gain or loss) or a (3) a positive (perceived gain for supporters) environmental message and measured their attitudes towards the message, pro‐environmental behavioural intentions and perceived consumer effectiveness. Our results reveal that supporters show traits of collective behaviour during sports events that may lower the in‐stadium effectiveness of environmental messages. The environmental commitment of the favoured sports club increases the influence of green marketing on supporters with higher levels of environmental values and knowledge, but only when they depart from a collective identity. This paper contributes to green marketing literature revealing that modelling collective behaviours of members of groups exposed to highly emotional situations should be coordinated with information and awareness‐raising campaigns in everyday life. We also contribute to the prospect theory showing that loss aversion prevails in risk‐free conditions even though it does not directly shape supporters' behavioural intentions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Left ventricular pseudoaneurysm (PSA) after surgical aortic valve replacement (AVR) is a known but uncommon complication. It is associated with risks such as thromboembolism and life‐threatening rupture. Surgical repair has traditionally been utilized in low‐risk patients but transcatheter closure has become a promising therapeutic option. This case report describes the utility of multimodality imaging in pre‐, intra‐, and post‐procedural evaluation of transcatheter PSA closure and is among the first to demonstrate the utility of 3D print model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the last few decades, there has been a significant increase in the number of student service personnel, yet demand has outstripped this growth leading to turnover and low employee satisfaction. Scholars and practitioners alike have called for increased levels of empowerment of these workers, but the outcomes of this approach need further analysis. We utilize data from a survey of international centre directors in the United States and employ a partial least squares‐based structural equation modelling to investigate the relationship between empowerment and employ perceptions including work satisfaction, organizational commitment, perspective of leadership and personal engagement. Specifically, trust meaning and personal consequence are strong components of empowerment in this sample. Our results indicate a positive relationship between empowerment and job satisfaction, organizational commitment and perspectives on leadership. In addition, we find that organizational commitment mediates the relationship between empowerment and personal engagement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In riparian forests, clear‐cutting causes long‐lasting changes in both riparian and aquatic biota. In this work, we examined if past clear‐cutting events occurred at different times have imprints on riparian forests in a Mediterranean river in central Italy. We carried out a randomized, plot‐based vegetation survey of riparian forests in systematically sampled 500 m‐long sectors along the whole river, dividing the riparian zone into two internal and two external strips. From historical aerial photos, past clear‐cutting events within plots were detected and classified in age classes: (i) cut in the past 8 years (recent); (ii) cut between 8 and 19 years ago (intermediate); (iii) no signs of clear‐cutting in the last 19 years (distant). We analyzed the responses of vegetation to clear‐cutting and strip position. Alien species richness was higher and woody species richness was lower in recently clear‐cut areas compared to those with a distant clear‐cutting event. Moreover, recently cut woods had more alien and synanthropic species. Intermediate clear‐cut areas had higher levels of invasion by alien species compared to areas with distant cut. Riparian forests of internal strips are impacted by clear‐cutting, but seem to recover in 8–19 years thanks to their natural resilience. Conversely, recent or intermediate clear‐cutting events did not affect any of the investigated vegetation attributes in the external strips since such forests were already invaded by alien and synanthropic species after human disturbance. Our results confirm that clear‐cutting events can have long‐lasting effects on Mediterranean riparian forests, confirming the vulnerability of river ecosystems to clear‐cutting and suggesting the need for more caution in management practices to improve the conservation status of riparian forests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The distribution range and population abundance of species provide fundamental information on the species–habitat relationship required for management and conservation. Abundance inherently provides more information about the ecology of species than do occurrence data. However, information on abundance is scarce for most species, mainly at large spatial scales. The objective of this work was, therefore, to provide information regarding the population status of six wild felids inhabiting territories in Mexico that are inaccessible or politically unstable. This was done using species distribution models derived from occurrence data. We used distribution data at a continental scale for the wild felids inhabiting Mexico: jaguar (Panthera onca), bobcat (Lynx rufus), ocelot (Leopardus pardalis), cougar (Puma concolor), margay (Leopardus wiedii), and jaguarundi (Herpailurus yagouaroundi) to predict environmental suitability (estimated by both Maxent and the distance to niche centroid, DNC). Suitability was then examined by relating to a capture rate‐based index, in a well‐monitored area in central western Mexico in order to assess their performance as proxies of relative abundance. Our results indicate that the environmental suitability patterns predicted by both algorithms were comparable. However, the strength of the relationship between the suitability and relative abundance of local populations differed across species and between algorithms, with the bobcat and DNC, respectively, having the best fit, although the relationship was not consistent in all the models. This paper presents the potential of implementing species distribution models in order to predict the relative abundance of wild felids in Mexico and offers guidance for the proper interpretation of the relationship between suitability and population abundance. The results obtained provide a robust information base on which to outline specific conservation actions and on which to examine the potential status of endangered species inhabiting remote or politically unstable territories in which on‐field monitoring programs are not feasible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fused filament fabrication, commonly referred to as 3D printing, is an additive manufacturing method finding plenty of applications nowadays. In contrast, polymer nanopatterning by nanolithographic techniques plays an important role in obtaining functional surfaces and coatings for applications in different fields including micro‐ and nanoelectronics. In spite of their relevance, additive manufacturing and polymer nanolithography have not found yet a common niche to be developed. Although both approaches are oriented to achieve different types of objects, it is shown that the confluence of both technologies can be desirable and potentially convenient. Herein, it is demonstrated that by employing conventional 3D printing, it is possible to fabricate nanostructured polymer surfaces in a relatively simple way by using similar approaches as those used in nanoimprint lithography but without the need for clean room conditions. To do that, a printed‐assisted nanoimprint lithography concept (3DPrANIL) has been tested for different types of polymer and silicon templates. It is demonstrated that a polymeric nanostructured hydrophilic template can be replicated accurately on another polymer rendering a nanostructured surface with enhanced hydrophobicity. The results support 3DPrANIL as novel method to obtain micro‐ and nanostructured surfaces with different functionalities like iridescence and hydrophobicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pacer wire induced tricuspid regurgitation is not well‐understood. The mechanisms behind pacer wired induced tricuspid regurgitation have not been clearly defined. This clinical vignette sets to identify different technical mechanisms behind cardiac lead induced tricuspid regurgitation to help optimize cardiac lead implantation strategies for future device implantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bionanocomposites based on poly(trimethylene 2,5‐furandicarboxylate)‐block‐poly(tetramethylene oxide) (PTF‐b‐F‐PTMO) with various contents of carbon nanofibers, graphene nanoplatelets and a hybrid system of these nanoparticles are synthesized via in situ polymerization. The dispersion of nanoparticles in the nanocomposites is determined using a scanning electron microscope and optical microscopy images. The thermal properties are studied employing differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic mechanical thermal analysis, and thermogravimetric analysis. The melt viscosity of the synthesized materials is determined using rheological measurements. Mechanical properties, along with the thermal and electrical conductivity, are also analyzed. The synthesized polymer nanocomposites are processed using injection molding and they display mechanical properties of elastomers during mechanical testing, which indicates that the obtained materials are, in fact, thermoplastic elastomers (TPE). Compared to a neat matrix (PTF‐b‐F‐PTMO 50/50), the incorporation of nanoparticles causes an increase in the value of the degree of crystallinity and the value of the tensile modulus values (E) of the nanocomposites. Such reinforced bionanocomposites are especially interesting from an applicative point of view. They can be used as components of fuel systems, bumpers, or cupholders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research investigates the linkage between training evaluation, learning design and training transfer. A new training evaluation model, (i.e., learning‐transfer evaluation model [LTEM]), was used to examine its ability to provide evaluative evidence through robust assessments in pre‐, post‐ and delayed assessments. The model was used to improve the training design of a nursing training programme and to nudge the stakeholders to change their training practices. A mixed‐methods research approach, called convergent parallel, was employed to study the influence of the LTEM model in training design improvement by assessing the perceptions of nurse trainees, trainers and a nurse educator towards the instructional design of the training programme. A quantitative approach was used to examine the extent to which the improved programme using an iterative design cycle would result in improved performance among four groups (i.e., one baseline and three treatment groups). The integrated data showed that the LTEM model influenced the stakeholders to focus more on skills practice. With this shift of mindset, the training design was enhanced based on the principles of learning design, cognitive science and multimedia principles. Results of the pre‐, post‐ and delayed posttests showed higher mean scores in the three treatment groups compared to the baseline group. For the measure of transfer, while the treatment groups scored higher, there was no statistically significant difference among all four groups. This could be attributed to nurses' varied levels of experience, negative transfer and the use of different evaluation matrices in the study and by the hospital. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Al Huwaysah 010 is an ungrouped achondrite meteorite, recently referred to as a brachinite‐like meteorite. This meteorite, showing a fine‐grained assemblage of low‐Ca pyroxene and opaque phases, is strongly reduced in comparison to other reduced brachinites. The occurrence of some tiny plates of graphite and oldhamite in this meteorite suggests that a partial melt residue has experienced a further reduction process. Olivine, the most abundant phase, is compositionally homogeneous (Fo83.3) as well as the clinopyroxene (En45.5Fs10.8Wo43.7) and the plagioclase (Ab69.5). Orthopyroxene (En85.4Fs13.9Wo0.7) also occurs but only in a fine intergrowth. Other accessory phases are Fe metal grains (Ni‐free or Cr‐bearing Fe‐Ni alloy), troilite, chlorapatite, pentlandite (as inclusions in chromite). The sample shows two different closure temperatures: the highest (≈900°C) is determined via the olivine–chromite intercrystalline geothermometer and the lowest temperature (≈520°C) is determined via the pyroxene‐based intracrystalline geothermometer. These temperatures may represent, respectively, the closure temperature associated with the formation and a subsequent impact event excavating the sample from the parental body. The visible to near‐infrared (VNIR) reflectance spectra of Al Huwaysah 010 exhibit low reflectance, consistent with the presence of darkening components, and weak absorptions indicative of olivine and pyroxene. Comparing the spectral parameters of Al Huwaysah 010 to potential parent bodies characterized by olivine–pyroxene mineralogy, we find that it falls within the field previously attributed to the SIII type asteroids. These results lead us to classify the Al Huwaysah 010 meteorite as the most reduced brachinite, whose VNIR spectral features show strong affinities with those of SIII asteroids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We conducted an observational study of a collection of interactive processes known as "demand‐withdraw" in relation to adolescent dating aggression. Couples (N = 209) aged 14–18 years participated in a challenging observational laboratory assessment to measure demands (i.e., pressures for a change), as well as demand → partner withdraw and demand → partner avoid sequences. Actor and partner effects were disentangled via dyadic data analyses. The results indicated a fairly consistent pattern in which demand → withdraw and demand → avoid sequences led by either partner were positively associated with both partners' physical and psychological aggression (measured via a dual informant questionnaire method). Further, higher quality demands (i.e., pressures for change that were specific and encouraged both members of the dyad to increase a given behavior) were inversely associated with aggression. Yet, all of the above associations were attenuated to the point of statistical nonsignificance after controlling for hostility. These results suggest two primary possibilities. The associations of demand → withdraw and demand → avoid sequences with dating aggression may be spurious, with the sequences merely markers for hostility, a known correlate of dating aggression. Alternatively, hostility may mediate the relations of demand → withdraw and demand → avoid sequences with dating aggression. Further research is required to test these competing explanations. Implications for preventive intervention are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In a study of conflict recovery and adolescent dating aggression, 14‐ to 18‐year‐old couples (N = 209 dyads) participated in a 1‐hr observational assessment. Negative behavior was observed during conflict‐evoking "hot" tasks and in a "cooldown" task. Physical and psychological dating aggression were assessed via questionnaires. Negative behavior measured in the cooldown task was not associated with dating aggression after controlling for carryover effects of negativity from the hot to cooldown tasks. Moreover, cooldown negativity moderated the associations of hot task negativity and dating aggression. Actor and partner effects were disentangled via dyadic data analyses. Given the paucity of observational studies of dating aggression, our findings are an important contribution to the literature and in need of replication and extension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green human resource management (GHRM) has recently received increasing attention from scholars and practitioners. In addition to environmental management systems, the circular economy has become a primary strategy for tackling environmental issues. Other studies have suggested that more research is required to identify the drivers of GHRM and explore how it is related to performance outcomes. In this study, we aim to investigate the effects of both institutional and stakeholder pressure on environmental and circular economy, economic performance, and environmental reputation of organisations. We also test the mediating roles of performance outcomes on GHRM adoption. Based on data collected from European environmentally certified organisations, we found that both institutional and stakeholder pressures are positively related to organisational performance and GHRM adoption. Performance outcomes also have a positive relationship with GHRM practices. However, our findings also highlight the risk that GHRM can become an elitist practice in high‐performing organisations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organisations face barriers in the transition towards a circular economy. Environmental management systems have often been adopted to tackle environmental challenges, but, more recently, scholars have proposed dynamic capabilities as a strategy to foster circular economy initiatives. Considering the level of internalisation of the environmental management system, we investigated the contribution of dynamic capabilities to organisation performance and circular economy implementation. Using partial least squares structural equation modelling, we analysed more than 800 European organisations registered with the Eco‐Management and Audit Scheme. Our results proved that dynamic capabilities contribute to the internalisation of the environmental management system, which consequently improves the overall organisation performance and circular economy adoption. In addition, while dynamic capabilities directly influence the circular economy and environmental performance of an organisation, EMAS internalisation is crucial for a better economic performance and environmental reputation. Lastly, we assessed the contribution of sensing, seizing and reconfiguring capabilities to the internalisation of the environmental management standard proving their crucial role in the integration of the standard's requirements. Our study highlights the scarce linkages between the Eco‐Management and Audit Scheme and the circular economy by suggesting how organisations can identify and pursue circular economy opportunities through dynamic capabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: As transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) procedures increase, more data is available on the development of conduction abnormalities requiring permanent pacemaker (PPM) implantation post-TAVR. Mechanistically, new pacemaker implantation and incidence of associated tricuspid regurgitation (TR) post-TAVR is not well understood. Studies have evaluated the predictability of patient anatomy towards risk for needing permanent pacemaker (PPM) post-TAVR; however, little has been reported on new PPM and TR in patients post-TAVR.Methods: This retrospective study identified patients at our health system who underwent PPM following TAVR from January 2014 to June 2018. Data from both TAVR and PPM procedures as well as patient demographics were collected. Echocardiographic data before TAVR, between TAVR and PPM placement, and the most recent echocardiogram at the time of chart review were analyzed.Results: Of 796 patients who underwent TAVR between January 2014 and June 2018, 89 patients (11%) subsequently required PPM. Out of the 89 patients who required PPM implantation, 82 patients had pre-TAVR and 2-year post-TAVR echocardiographic imaging data. At baseline, 22% (18/82) of patients had at least moderate TR. At 2-year post-TAVR echocardiographic imaging follow-up; 27% (22/82) of patients had at least moderate TR. Subgroup analysis was performed according to the TAVR valve size implanted. In patients who received a TAVR device < 29 mm in diameter in size, 25% (11/44) had worsening TR. In patients who received a TAVR device ≥ 29 mm in diameter, 37% (14/38) had worsening TR.Conclusion: We have demonstrated a patient population that may be predisposed to developing worsening TR and right heart function after TAVR and Pacemaker implantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The protective effects of Kangaroo mother care (KMC) on the neurodevelopment of preterm infants are well established, but we do not know whether the benefits persist beyond infancy. Our aim was to determine whether providing KMC in infancy affected brain volumes in young adulthood. Method: Standardised cognitive, memory and motor skills tests were used to determine the brain volumes of 20‐year‐old adults who had formed part of a randomised controlled trial of KMC versus incubator care. Multivariate analysis of brain volumes was conducted according to KMC exposure. Results: The study comprised 178 adults born preterm: 97 had received KMC and 81 were incubator care controls. Bivariate analysis showed larger volumes of total grey matter, basal nuclei and cerebellum in those who had received KMC, and the white matter was better organised. This means that the volumes of the main brain structures associated with intelligence, attention, memory and coordination were larger in the KMC group. Multivariate lineal regression analysis demonstrated the direct relationship between brain volumes and duration of KMC, after controlling for potential confounders. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the neuroprotective effects of KMC for preterm infants persisted beyond childhood and improved their lifetime functionality and quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental management systems' effects on organisations' environmental performance are still an open issue. This study assesses the contribution of the Eco‐Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) to corporate environmental performance. The study also investigates the correlation between the environmental and economic performance of organisations. Environmental indicators were collected from 268 environmental statements of Italian manufacturing firms, while economic indicators were obtained from the Orbis database. After analysing around 5000 indicators, the results indicated a slight deterioration in some organisations' environmental performance and an improvement in the economic performance. No correlation was found between environmental and economic performance. Moreover, around 60% of the organisations are not fully compliant with the standard requirements linked to the environmental statements. The results question the positive effects of environmental management systems on environmental performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most firms, especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs), find it difficult to integrate circular economy strategies within their business models. Moreover, there is a lack of research on approaches for the successful implementation of circular economies in SMEs in the field of manufacturing. To fill this gap, we investigate the antecedents of absorptive capacity in successful circular economy business cases using a qualitative multiple‐case study. Focusing on the horticultural sector, we interviewed six Italian SMEs using NVivo 12 for the analysis. The data were then classified into first‐order and second‐order categories and then sorted into absorptive capacity dimensions. Our results highlight the significant contribution provided by absorptive capacities to the circular economy in SMEs. We highlighted three antecedents for each absorptive capacity dimension and explored their key concepts. Our study contributes to the academic literature on the links between absorptive capacity and corporate sustainability by providing insights into the role of acquisition, assimilation, transformation and exploitation capabilities in the successful implementation of circular economy practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: An increasing number of reports have described the COVID‐19–associated pulmonary aspergillosis (CAPA) as being a further contributing factor to mortality. Based on a recent consensus statement supported by international medical mycology societies, it has been proposed to define CAPA as possible, probable, or proven on the basis of sample validity and thus diagnostic certainty. Considering current challenges associated with proven diagnoses, there is pressing need to study the epidemiology of proven CAPA. Methods: We report the incidence of histologically diagnosed CAPA in a series of 45 consecutive COVID‐19 laboratory‐confirmed autopsies, performed at Padova University Hospital during the first and second wave of the pandemic. Clinical data, laboratory data and radiological features were also collected for each case. Results: Proven CAPA was detected in 9 (20%) cases, mainly in the second wave of the pandemic (7/17 vs. 2/28 of the first wave). The population of CAPA patients consisted of seven males and two females, with a median age of 74 years. Seven patients were admitted to the intensive care unit. All patients had at least two comorbidities, and concomitant lung diseases were detected in three cases. Conclusion: We found a high frequency of proven CAPA among patients with severe COVID‐19 thus confirming at least in part the alarming epidemiological data of this important complication recently reported as probable CAPA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Topical treatment is the mainstay for mild or moderate psoriasis, but patients are generally little satisfied. Calcipotriol/betamethasone dipropionate (Cal/BD) cutaneous foam has shown to improve signs and symptoms in plaque psoriasis patients. This study assessed patient's satisfaction with Cal/BD foam in a real‐life Italian dermatological clinical practice. A multicenter, 4‐week observational prospective cohort study enrolled, in 17 Italian dermatology clinics, adult patients with plaque psoriasis on the body and/or scalp. Treatment satisfaction was assessed by 9‐item Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication (TSQM‐9), preference over previous treatments by Patient Preference Questionnaire (PPQ), and change in disease state by Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI). Overall 256 patients were eligible, with a mean (SD) age of 55.6 (15.4) years, 59.4% were males. Psoriasis severity was mild in 52.0% of patients, moderate in 43.3%, and severe in 4.7%. Scalp involvement was present in 36.7% of patients. Previous antipsoriatic treatments had been received by 80.5% of patients. TSQM‐9 median (25th–75th percentile) scores were 83.3 (66.7–88.9) for effectiveness, 77.8 (66.7–88.9) for convenience, and 78.6 (64.3–92.9) for global satisfaction. Mean (SD) PASI value decreased from 7.3 (4.8) to 2.1 (2.7) after 4 weeks. More than 90% of patients previously treated for psoriasis evaluated the Cal/BD foam more effective, easier to use and better tolerated compared to previous topical treatments at PPQ. This observational study provides real‐life evidence of a high level of satisfaction with effectiveness and convenience of the Cal/BD foam in a cohort of plaque psoriasis patients, with an objective improvement in PASI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The capability to manage the supply chain is a key issue in general management as well as green management. The topic has been widely discussed in the literature, however only few studies focused on how this capability could influence the effectiveness of certified Environmental Management Systems. To bridge this gap, we administered a survey with more than 400 EU EMAS‐registered companies in order to investigate the relation between green supply chain management capability and some key organisational performance such as environmental management system internalisation, environmental reputation, eco‐innovation and market competitiveness. The results show a positive influence of green supply chain management capability on performance through the mediating role of the internalisation of environmental management system and directly on market competitiveness. The study opens the floor on further academic debates on green supply chain management capability in environmental management systems and it identifies possible managerial and policy implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, the effect of the addition of graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) on the mechanical properties, thermal stability, and electrical conductivity of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) has been investigated. Different weight percentages of nanofillers ranging from 0.5 to 5 wt% have been combined with PVA. The ultrasonic technique has been applied to disperse nanofillers in the PVA solution. The nanocomposite films have been prepared via solution casting technique and the dispersion of nanofillers into the PVA has been studied through optical microscopy. The microstructure, crystallization behavior, and interfacial interaction were characterized through X‐ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis have been applied to study the thermal properties of the prepared nanocomposites. The DSC results revealed that the crystallization temperature and melting temperature were enhanced in the presence of GO nanofiller. Besides, the tensile strength at break was improved along with the addition of GO; however, elongation at break for PVA/GO and PVA/rGO was diminished. Moreover, all specimens showed insulating behavior and the only sample was electrically conducting, which contain a high amount of rGO (5 wt%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In patients with challenging femoral vein anatomy, transcatheter patent foramen ovale (PFO) closure can be safely and effectively be done through the jugular veins guided by ICE from the arm. This novel technique can potentially save resources (anesthesia and TEE) and provide an option for patients without a femoral option. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Brodalumab was efficacious and safe in moderate‐to‐severe plaque‐type psoriasis in the AMAGINE trials; published reports under real‐life conditions are limited. Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of brodalumab in patients with moderate‐to‐severe plaque‐type psoriasis in a real‐world setting. Methods: This observational, retrospective study enrolled adult patients (≥18 years) with moderate‐to‐severe plaque‐type psoriasis who underwent 24 weeks of treatment with brodalumab at 17 Italian dermatological centres. Baseline data included demographics, comorbidities, age of onset and duration of psoriasis and previous treatments. Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), Physician Global Assessment (PGA), static PGA of Genitalia, Dermatology Life Quality Index and patient satisfaction were assessed at weeks 0, 4, 12 and 24; adverse events were recorded. Results: Seventy‐eight patients (mean age 47.9 years, 71.8% male, average disease duration 16.8 years) were enrolled. A rapid and significant reduction in mean PASI score was observed after 4 weeks of treatment, decreasing further at weeks 12 and 24 (all P < 0.0001 vs. baseline). A higher number of cardiometabolic comorbidities and previous therapies were negatively associated with the achievement of PASI 90 at all assessments. Brodalumab was effective in bio‐experienced patients, including those who had failed on anti‐interleukin (IL)‐17 therapies. Quality of life and patient satisfaction increased significantly during treatment (P < 0.0001 and P < 0.01 vs. baseline, respectively). Treatment was interrupted in 9 (11.5%) patients due to adverse events (n = 4), lack of efficacy (n = 3), lost to follow‐up (n = 1) and surgical procedure (n = 1). Conclusions: Brodalumab is effective and safe in the treatment of moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis in a real‐world setting, including in patients with failure to anti‐IL17 therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uncertainties posed by climate change limit companies' ability to understand implications of global warming on business and society at large, hampering the adoption of tangible organizational responses to climate change. Understanding climate action thus requires to investigate influential factors of decision‐making under uncertainty, which implies acknowledging managerial interpretations and perceptions about climate issues. Drawing insights from the literature on climate inaction and from corporate sustainability literature, the present study examines awareness of climate change and perceived exposure to climate risks as antecedents of corporate responses to climate change, drawing on a survey of managers of Italian manufacturing companies. In addition, the study tests the moderation of risk tolerance on the relation between perceived climate risk exposure and climate action, suggesting that risk attitudes are a significant factor of decision‐making under climate uncertainty. The results support the hypothesis of the model and thus provide several contributions to the literature on business and climate change. Managerial implications and avenues for future research are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although most companies perceive that they might not be able to implement a circular economy (CE), some scholars perceive that companies may do so by developing dynamic capabilities (DCs). To empirically investigate the role of DCs in CE implementation, we analyzed a sample of 220 companies in Italy through partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS‐SEM). Our PLS‐SEM analysis demonstrates that DCs and their underlying organizational activities significantly facilitate CE implementation, which consequently improves the overall performance of companies. Moreover, a circular dynamic environment (CDE) may stimulate companies towards CE implementation. This paper contributes to the literature in the following manner. First, this paper highlights how companies can identify and pursue CE opportunities. Second, this paper contributes to the debate on the role of a dynamic environment and how DCs leads to performance. Third, this paper presents the measurement scales of DCs and shows how to operationalize a hierarchical component model (HCM) in PLS‐SEM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite thromboprophylaxis, patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) exhibit hypercoagulability and higher venous thromboembolic risk, although its real incidence is still unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with COVID‐19 admitted to both intensive care units (ICUs) and medical wards (MWs). Consecutive patients admitted for COVID‐19 to the MW and the ICU at Padua University Hospital, all receiving thromboprophylaxis, underwent systematic ultrasonography of the internal jugular, and the upper and lower limbs veins every 7 days (± 1 day) after the admission; and, if negative, once‐weekly until discharge or death. In case of suspected pulmonary embolism, a multidetector computed tomographic angiography was performed. The primary outcome was the proportion of any deep‐vein thrombosis (DVT) and symptomatic pulmonary embolism in both groups. An extended blood coagulative test was performed as well. From March 4 to April 30, 2020, a total of 85 patients were investigated, 44 (52%) in MWs and 41 (48%) in the ICU. Despite thromboprophylaxis, VTE occurred in 12 patients in the MWs (27.3%) and 31 patients in the ICU (75.6%) with an odds ratio of 9.3 (95% confidence interval (CI) 3.5–24.5; P < 0.001). Multiple‐site DVT occurred in 55.6% of patients (95% CI 39.6–70.5). Increased D‐dimer levels significantly correlated with VTE (P = 0.001) and death (P = 0.015). Summarizing, patients with COVID‐19 admitted to the MW or ICU showed a high frequency of venous thromboembolism, despite standard‐dose or high‐dose thromboprophylaxis. Whether thrombosis, particularly asymptomatic events, may play a role in the morbidity and mortality of patients with COVID‐19 remain to be clarified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An accurate knowledge of the parameters governing the kinetics of block copolymer self‐assembly is crucial to model the time‐ and temperature‐dependent evolution of pattern formation during annealing as well as to predict the most efficient conditions for the formation of defect‐free patterns. Here, the self‐assembly kinetics of a lamellar PS‐b‐PMMA block copolymer under both isothermal and non‐isothermal annealing conditions are investigated by combining grazing‐incidence small‐angle X‐ray scattering (GISAXS) experiments with a novel modelling methodology that accounts for the annealing history of the block copolymer film before it reaches the isothermal regime. Such a model allows conventional studies in isothermal annealing conditions to be extended to the more realistic case of non‐isothermal annealing and prediction of the accuracy in the determination of the relevant parameters, namely the correlation length and the growth exponent, which define the kinetics of the self‐assembly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental management systems have attracted considerable attention from organizational and management scholars, owing to their widespread adoption in most industry sectors. Despite the extensive empirical literature, academic research on ISO 14001 and Environmental Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS) remains characterized by a technical and pragmatic connotation and scarce theoretical contribution. As this research field approaches maturity, theoretical elaboration is crucial for assessing the current state of knowledge and identifying pathways for future research. The main objective of the paper is to scrutinize the academic literature on standard‐based environmental management, with a focus on identifying organizational and management theories that contributed to the development of the field in the last decades. By critically analyzing 55 papers, the study points out eight dominant theoretical frameworks, mostly pertaining to the field of strategic management. The paper provides an in‐depth analysis of the objectives and findings of each study in the light of its theory of reference in order to contribute insights on the current state of theoretical elaboration of standard‐based environmental management systems research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Circular economy is a key strategy to achieve corporate sustainability. However, so far, most firms are unable to translate the concept of circular economy into their corporate strategies, business models, and operations. Some scholars have argued that firms need to develop new (and dynamic) capabilities for circular economy implementation. Yet there is a little discussion on how firms can develop such capabilities. Notably, there is a paucity of research on specific skills, processes, and organizational activities (microfoundations of dynamic capabilities) that may facilitate circular economy implementation. To address this knowledge gap, using a multiple‐case studies approach, we explore microfoundations of dynamic capabilities in successful circular economy business cases. Our findings indicate that dynamic capabilities positively contribute to circular economy implementation. Our case studies show that case firms identified circular economy opportunities by using four microfoundations of sensing capability. Further, case firms acted on the identified opportunities by using simultaneously three microfoundations of seizing capability and four microfoundations of reconfiguring capability. This paper contributes to the literature on the relations between dynamic capabilities and corporate sustainability by providing insights on how sensing, seizing, and reconfiguring dynamic capabilities act in successful operationalization of circular economy strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of nanostructured materials has been recently proposed in the field of environmental nanoremediation. This approach consists in using nanomaterials not directly, but as building blocks for the design of nano‐porous micro‐dimensional systems, overcoming the eco‐ and health‐toxicology risks generally associated with the use of nano‐sized technologies. Herein we report the use of life cycle assessment (LCA) as an eco‐design tool for optimizing the production of cellulose nanosponges (CNS), nanostructured materials recently developed for water remediation purposes. LCA was applied from the acquisition of raw materials to the synthesis of CNS (from cradle‐to‐gate), considering three production systems, from the lab‐level to a modeled scale‐up system. The lab‐scale LCA identified the main environmental hotspots, namely the energy‐consuming steps and the final purification of the material (washing step). In a second lab‐scale production, an improvement action could be implemented, switching the washing solvent from methanol to water and decreasing the washing temperature. A second LCA showed a reduced contribution to the impacts from the materials, while the global impacts remained within the same order of magnitude. A simulated scale‐up of the process allowed to optimize the energy‐consuming steps and the water consumption, through internal recycling. A third LCA assessed the resulting benefits and a decrease in the global impacts by two orders of magnitude. Our study contributes to the discussion of LCA community, providing a focus on the importance of scaling‐up of emerging technologies, namely nanostructured porous materials, highlighting the benefits of a LCA based approach since the very beginning of product design (eco‐design). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, postconsumer poly (ethylene glycol‐co‐1,4‐cyclohexanedimethanol terephthalate) (PET‐G) foils have been modified with three types of carbon nanofillers that differ in size and shape, ie, multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), graphene nanoplatelets (GNP), and nanosized carbon black (nCB), thus enabling the reusage of recyclate in receiving new functional materials. The series of polymer hybrid nanocomposites have been prepared via a two‐stage polycondensation process, be means of glycolysis of postconsumer PET‐G foil, followed by polycondensation in the presence of carbon nanofillers. The scanning electron microscopy revealed that nanoadditives were uniformly dispersed into the whole volume of polymer matrix. The results present the synergistic effect of hybrid system of nanofillers in improving tensile properties of PET‐G. It has been found that the incorporation of three types of carbon nanofillers has not affected the glass transition temperature of the polymer matrix. Moreover, the incorporation of carbon nanofillers, and the mixture of two, or even three of those, caused an improvement in thermal conductivity and thermal stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research assessed the extent to which an environmental management scheme (EMS) had been implemented in 242 Environmental Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS)‐registered companies in Europe. The actions taken by the surveyed enterprises to comply with the EMAS Regulation (1221/2009) and to implement the Deming cycle that characterizes the environmental management system and the EMAS standard were analyzed. We exploited a new institutional theory, which suggests that a firm's operations exert ongoing pressure on its decisions, leading to isomorphic behavior. The survey results were processed using cluster analysis, thereby enabling us to classify the companies into four groups. The classification of the groups is based on the implementation of Deming cycle composed of four main steps ("plan‐do‐check‐act"). These steps were totally or partially adopted by the EMAS companies. So, different level of EMAS implementation emerged from the research. The cluster analysis confirmed that EMSs can be implemented in different ways and that EMAS achievements can be discretionary. If the scheme is not integrated into the organization, then a firm's adoption of EMS is likely to be only symbolic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paradoxical tensions in corporate sustainability is hotly debated in the literature. Some authors have underlined the need for empirical works in this field, and the circular economy could help to bridge this gap. The circular economy creates contrasting challenges for companies, which lead to paradoxical tensions. On the one hand, companies pursue circular economy goals—such as the use of recycled raw materials—thus highlighting their environmental commitment. On the other hand, such usage may affect the quality and consequently the competitiveness of products. Our study investigates the acknowledgement of these tensions and the strategies adopted by companies to manage them. Using a multiple case study approach, we focus on an Italian sample of three manufacturing sectors: paper production, textile/clothing, and leather. The results show the different defensive and proactive strategies adopted by firms highlighting, in one case, a relevant opportunity exploited by a company considered in the sample. Our paper contributes to the existing knowledge on paradoxical tensions management in companies involved in corporate sustainability inviting scholars towards new research avenues focused on circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organizational studies have widely debated the relationship between job satisfaction and job performance. Some papers have dealt with managerial satisfaction and businesses' performance adopting agency theory to interpret the results. However, no studies have yet considered the relationship between the satisfaction levels of an environmental manager and corporate environmental performance. This paper thus analyses the role played by the environmental manager's satisfaction in enhancing corporate environmental performance and reputation. The paper uses data from a survey of 412 Eco Management and Audit Scheme registered organizations. The results show a positive relationship between managerial satisfaction and environmental performance, whereas no such positive relationship was found when considering eco‐innovation performance. In addition, the environmental manager's satisfaction has a positive and indirect influence on the corporate environmental reputation. These results contribute to the literature on agency theory and aim to extend the debate between job satisfaction and job performance to the sustainable business field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: We investigated the possible role of intercostal surgical neurolysis in relieving chronic neuropathic pain refractory to other nonsurgical treatments in patients with postsurgical thoracic pain.Methods: We retrospectively collected clinical data on patients referred to the Neurosurgery Unit of Policlinic Hospital of Milan. Ten patients (age range, 20-68 years) suffering from neuropathic pain for at least 2 months after thoracic surgery underwent intercostal neurolysis.Results: Compared with preneurolysis, pain intensity decreased 1 month postneurolysis and remained stable 2 months postneurolysis (median score [interquartile range]: 8 [6-9] preneurolysis, 4 [3-5] 1 month after, and 3 [2-5] 2 months after, P < 0.001). Antiepileptic drugs for pain control decreased after neurolysis.Discussion: Surgical intercostal neurolysis may be a promising therapeutic option in patients with chronic neuropathic pain associated with neurological deficits. Muscle Nerve 58: 671-675, 2018. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]