bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors affecting quality of education during pandemic: lessons learnt and way forward
Authors: Chandani Arti , Wagholikar Smita , Pathak Mohit , Ubarhande Prashant , Bhatia Ankita
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The pandemic brought by COVID-19 in March 2020 shook the entire world, compelling everyone to remain indoors. Most B-Schools were unprepared for such a situation and did not have the resources to carry out the teaching and learning activities. B-schools then adopted online and hybrid modes of learning to impart education to their students. The purpose of this study is to identify factors affecting the quality of education along with lessons learnt and lessons to be left behind, using qualitative method.

Design/methodology/approach

The factors affecting the quality of education were drawn from the literature, and 18 faculty members were interviewed. The study uses a descriptive method, where interviews were conducted, and each interview was recorded, with an explicit permission of respective faculty member and coded and categorized to identify themes.

Findings

The significant contribution of this study is that it highlights? Through the learnings and experiences of the pandemic? What will work in the future for business schools. The use of online teaching-learning sessions and softwares, namely, Turnitin and Grammarly will not fade away. Faculty will use various engagement tools such as quizzes and simulations to improve the learning and quality of education in the post-pandemic era. Various interactive and online tools emerged during the pandemic which allowed faculty to use diagrams and infographics in their teaching, and this helped the faculty to cater to students with different learning styles.

Originality/value

This study will provide B-Schools, faculties and leaders an input for improving the quality of online education. The present study provides an empirical contribution to the factors affecting online education and its quality, by highlighting the perspective of faculty members with the help of qualitative study. These factors make a clear and strong indication that education in the future will be partly online, wherein a lot of e-learning resources will be used by faculty to impart quality education.
“I couldn’t do the job anymore”: a qualitative study exploring clinical psychologists’ experiences of working in and leaving CAMHS to work independently
Authors: Wintour Laura Jane , Joscelyne Trish
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) has been described as “in crisis” and “not fit for purpose”. CAMHS services have undergone a multitude of changes, including policy initiatives, recent growth in demand, decreases in resources and increased pressure. This study aims to explore the experiences of clinical psychologists (CPs) working in CAMHS, leaving CAMHS and working independently with children and families.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative design with semi-structured interviews of ten participants was used. Interviews were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Findings

Results are represented within 5 themes and 14 sub-themes. Participants felt that over time there had been undesirable changes in CAMHS, which left them reminiscing about the past. Participants felt unable to do their job in CAMHS, meet the needs of children and young people and use their psychology skills. Participants emphasised the importance of colleagues and being part of an multidisciplinary team, which had been missed since working independently, but they also highlighted difficult relationships with managers. Participants felt that working at CAMHS had negatively impacted their emotional and physical well-being and their family life. In contrast, participants felt that working independently meant they could do the job they had wanted to be doing as a CP and had a better work–life balance.

Originality/value

This study had implications for services, where it would be beneficial for the experiences of CPs to be considered in relation to current practice with the view of improving the experiences of staff. Future research would benefit from exploring the experiences of CAMHS staff further.
Practice Briefing: The implications of a move towards explicit discounted cash flow (DCF) models for property investment valuations
Authors: Frodsham Malcolm
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The primary purpose of this Practice Briefing is to examine the implications of the recommendations of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Review of Investment Valuations to shift towards (explicit) discounted cash flow (DCF) valuations on valuers, clients, risk management and market data.

Design/methodology/approach

This Practice Briefing will develop a conceptual framework to articulate the impact of the shift towards explicit modelling assumptions in valuations. A comparative analysis is conducted to contrast traditional valuation approaches with an explicit DCF approach.

Findings

The proposed shift to DCF valuations in the real estate industry carries both subtle and profound implications. While on the surface, the move appears to bring minimal change since current valuations are already DCF-based, a deeper exploration reveals a potential transformation to the understanding, analysis and measurement of pricing and risks in commercial real estate.

Practical implications

The traditional techniques adopted in valuations have become pervasive in the industry, hindering more sophisticated modelling and analysis of individual assets and portfolios. Explicitly modelling assumptions in both the initial years of cash flow and perpetuity calculations would unveil fundamental relationships and rationales that have previously been buried within, and perhaps ignored by, an All Risks Yield (ARY).

Originality/value

This briefing identifies the cause of confusion when interpreting ARY differentials on implied target returns and risk and demonstrates how a change to explicit assumptions, such as growth and letting periods, would enhance transparency, enabling more informed client–valuer discussions, which in-turn will boost confidence in valuation accuracy, lead to more sophisticated asset modelling, market data, forecasting and market analysis.
Fostering wellbeing and satisfaction for micro-entrepreneurs: the role of coworking spaces
Authors: Orel Marko , Lukes Martin , Zouhar Jan
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of coworking spaces (CWS) on the wellbeing and entrepreneurial satisfaction of remotely working micro-entrepreneurs, highlighting the role of these spaces beyond conventional work locations. It specifically investigates how CWS foster a supportive ecosystem for micro-entrepreneurs, supporting their professional journey.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing a mixed-methodological approach, this study uses nearest-neighbor matching and multiple regressions based on quantitative surveys from a representative sample of micro-entrepreneurs, including those working from CWS, and a qualitative focus group with frequent CWS users. This comprehensive approach allows for a nuanced exploration of the impacts of CWS on micro-entrepreneurs' wellbeing and satisfaction.

Findings

The study finds that micro-entrepreneurs experience significant benefits from utilizing CWS, most notably in terms of wellbeing and work–life balance. These spaces provide valuable support through community building, networking opportunities and structured work environments. The benefits of CWS are particularly pronounced for women and micro-entrepreneurs with young children, aiding in boundary management and mitigating the challenges of social isolation.

Practical implications

We provide clear implications for remotely working micro-entrepreneurs, especially women with young children at home, on why to use CWS as their primary locations. The findings also offer insights for policymakers and CWS providers, underlining the importance of designing CWS environments that meet micro-entrepreneurs' diverse needs.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the existing literature by providing a detailed examination of the utilization of CWS among micro-entrepreneurs and the impact of CWS on their wellbeing and entrepreneurial satisfaction.
ESG and impact litigation: identifying and governing the causes through strategic accountability patterns
Authors: Andreoli Chiara , Cremasco Chiara , Falivena Camilla , Brunelli Sandro
Published: June 2024

Purpose

As financial firms incorporate impact strategies more extensively into their operations, they are asked to sustain their impact claims and thus face increased risks of regulatory scrutiny and lawsuits from private and public parties. The lack of reliable frameworks to measure impact gives rise to phenomena like impact washing, leading to litigations. This article aims to explore the main factors contributing to the impact litigation risk and the mechanisms employed by practitioners in the impact investing field to navigate and address this challenge.

Design/methodology/approach

We conducted semi-structured interviews involving three impact investors and three impact lawyers with specific knowledge of ESG and impact controversies, adopting the Gioia Methodology for the analysis. We triangulated such information with the analysis of secondary data.

Findings

The “great noise” around the impact investing world and the rise of impact washing, the lack of shared standards for measuring impacts and the misalignment of interests among actors involved in the initiatives constitute a potential “litigation bomb”. Such a scenario is detrimental to an investment strategy, which has the potential to tackle societal issues.

Originality/value

This study represents an initial effort to connect the academic debate on impact litigation with the expert’s active “on-field” standpoints. The identified and validated drivers of impact litigations provide valuable insight to enhance the governance and accountability of impact investing. Implementing Impact Measurement and Management (IMM) tools, participatory governance models, clear impact-focused contracts and a proactive approach could serve as prospective solutions to mitigate the risk of disputes.
Exploring the impact of Qatar’s soft power sponsorship in the Indian Premier League: a social identity perspective
Authors: George Joliss Helen , Ranjith V.K.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Drawing upon the Social Identity Theory, this research aims to investigate the effectiveness of Qatar’s soft power sponsorships among the Indian Premier League (IPL) fans in India. We explore the relationship between team identification, team-sponsor fit, and purchase intention of sports fans, while also examining the moderating effect of sponsor brand awareness in the context of the IPL.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a quantitative research design, we conducted both offline and online surveys from sports fans. The proposed model was examined using Confirmatory Factor Analysis and Partial Least Square-Structural Equation Modelling to test the study’s hypotheses.

Findings

The results reveal a positive and significant association between team identification and team-sponsor fit, and team-sponsor fit and purchase intention of sponsor brands. Further, brand awareness moderates the relationship between team-sponsor fit and purchase intention of sponsor brands, but not on the team identification and team-sponsor fit relationship.

Research limitations/implications

This research adds to the paradigm of social identity theory and soft power sponsorship research. By providing insights into fans’ predisposition towards the team sponsors, the study will help managers design effective brand promotion strategies.

Originality/value

This research is the first to explore the effectiveness of soft-power sponsorships in the Indian mega-sports landscap. It is also the first to explore the moderating effect of sponsor brand awareness on sponsorship effectiveness, which is determined through the purchase intentions of the sponsor brand.
Mycorrhizal arbitrage, a hypothesis: How mycoheterotrophs could profit from inefficiencies in the biological marketplace
Authors: Steidinger Brian S.
Published: June 2024

Mycoheterotrophy, whereby plants acquire both carbon and nutrients from a fungal partner, is an evolutionarily puzzling phenomenon. According to biological market models, mycoheterotrophs have nothing to offer and thus should be shunned as trading partners by discriminating fungi. Nevertheless, mycoheterotrophy is common, particularly among orchids, and an estimated 10% of all plant species are facultatively mycoheterotrophic at early stages in their life cycle.

Reconciling mycoheterotrophy with biological market models, I describe how mycoheterotrophs could use arbitrage trading to net a profit of carbon and nutrients, without acquiring either from the abiotic environment. The model requires that mycoheterotrophs simultaneously buy and sell both carbon and nutrients, exploiting variability in the trading ratios offered by mycorrhizal fungi.

The model relies on several conditions, including the ability of the mycoheterotroph to form indirect hyphal associations with two or more neighbouring autotrophic mycorrhizal associations, the existence of variable carbon:nutrient exchange ratios among these associations and the ability of mycoheterotrophs to invert the net‐direction of resource trade. Evidence that these conditions occur in a state of nature varies from incontrovertible to plausible given available models.

The arbitrage model provides evolutionary rationale for mycoheterotrophy from both the plant and fungal perspective. Accordingly, mycoheterotrophs match trading ratios offered by autotrophic plants and, thus, need not be antagonists. The model makes novel predictions that distinguish it from source‐sink models, most notably in the existence of resource exchange inversions at the plant‐mycorrhizal interface. Finally, the model emphasizes market inefficiencies as the foundation on which mycoheterotrophs construct an arbitrage niche.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
From a national elite to the global elite: Possibilities and problems in scaling up
Authors: Maxwell Claire , Lillie Karen
Published: June 2024

This research note highlights emerging findings that speak to the challenges of joining the transnational elite, particularly for those coming from the Global South. For a longitudinal study of wealth inheritors becoming more transnational via their educational paths, we spoke with 16 young people who were all in their early 20s and primarily from economic elite families in the Global South. Some participants had clear ambitions, while others were less sure about their future, wondering where they should move and what they should do when they got there. Their various narratives reveal that underlying the possibilities and problems of where to locate themselves was our participants' access to different constellations of economic, social and cultural capital, as well as their race, citizenship and ‘home’ country's geopolitical situation. Their parents' ambitions that they become part of a global elite remained in most cases largely unfulfilled—despite a significant economic investment in their secondary and university educations. Only a small minority of our participants aspired to and/or were able to secure such transnational futures.
Impacts of organic farming on the nitrogen balance in agricultural land of OECD countries: Evidence from panel ARDL approach
Authors: Kim GwanSeon , Jeong Hoyeon , Manlove Jacob , Seok Jun Ho
Published: June 2024

The growing concern for health and the environment among individuals is anticipated to boost the demand for organic foods. However, there is a research gap in expanding field experiment results for the impact of organic farming to the real world. This study examines the causal relationship between nitrogen balance, organic farming area, agricultural land, and Gross Domestic Product per capita in 18 Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development countries from 2000 to 2019. By employing panel Autoregressive Distributed Lag, we found that a 1% increase in organic farming areas is associated with a 0.054% decrease in nitrogen balance in the long run. However, we found that the nitrogen balance increased by 0.392% and 0.487% with 1% expansion of agricultural farmland and economic development in the long run, respectively. Our findings will help policymakers develop or implement soil health management practices to reduce and maintain the amount of nitrogen in the environment. In addition, environmentally friendly raising livestock practices might be another consideration to improve nitrogen balance in livestock‐intensive countries. Finally, expanding agricultural land may not be an appropriate way to solve the problems of soil and underground water contamination.
Detection of cocaine 24 h after administration before nasotracheal intubation
Authors: Larsen Mo H. , Rosenkrantz Oscar , Rasmussen Brian S. , Nielsen Marie K. K. , Linnet Kristian , Rasmussen Lars S. , Isbye Dan
Published: June 2024

Background

Cocaine may be applied to decongest the nasal mucosa before nasotracheal intubation, but patients risk a criminal offence if cocaine is detected when patients drive a car shortly after surgery. We aimed to evaluate whether benzoylecgonine levels in saliva exceeded the cut‐off point 24 h after administration in patients undergoing nasotracheal intubation and whether cocaine would be detectable above the Danish legal fixed limit in blood samples 1 and 24 h after surgery.

Methods

We conducted a prospective study following approval from the local research ethics committee and the national medicine agency. Written informed consent was obtained from all patients. We included patients scheduled for surgery under general anaesthesia with nasotracheal intubation. They received 80 mg cocaine as a nasal spray 5 min before induction and nasotracheal intubation. The primary outcome was a dichotomous assessment of benzoylecgonine levels in saliva samples measured 24 h after administration of nasal cocaine with a cut‐off limit of 200 ng/mL. Secondary outcomes were dichotomous assessments of cocaine in whole blood samples measured 1 and 24 h after administration of nasal cocaine with a cut‐off limit of 0.01 mg/kg.

Results

Overall, 70 patients had valid saliva samples and 75 had valid blood samples 24 h after cocaine administration. Benzoylecgonine in saliva was traceable above the cut‐off in 9/70 patients (13%; CI95%: 6% to 23%), and cocaine in blood was detected above the cut‐off in 2/75 patients (3%; CI95%: 0.3% to 9%).

Conclusion

We found benzoylecgonine traceable in saliva in 13% of patients and cocaine traceable in blood in 3% of patients 24 h after administration of 80 mg nasal cocaine. Patients should be informed when receiving cocaine and advised not to drive for at least 24 h.
The use of prone position ventilation in Danish patients with COVID‐19‐induced severe acute respiratory distress syndrome treated with veno‐venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: A nationwide cohort study with focus on pulmonary effects
Authors: Jørgensen Vibeke Lind , Adelsten Janne , Christensen Steffen , Nielsen Dorthe Viemose , Eschen Camilla Tofte , Sørensen Hasse Møller , Sørensen Marc , Madsen Søren Aalbæk , Gjedsted Jakob , Pedersen Finn Møller , Nielsen Jonas , Grønlykke Lars
Published: June 2024

Background

Prone position ventilation (PPV) is recommended for patients with COVID‐19 induced severe Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) and is used for patients supported with V‐V ECMO as well. The purpose of this study was to describe the use of PPV in these patients focusing on physiological effects with the hypothesis that PPV could reduce oxygen need and improve dynamic compliance.

Methods

This study was a nationwide retrospective analysis of all COVID‐19 patients in Denmark from March 2020 – December 2021 with severe ARDS and need of V‐V ECMO support. Data on the number of patients treated with PPV, number of PPV sessions, timing, the time spent in prone position, pulmonary physiological response types with analysis of variables affecting the response are reported.

Results

Out of 68 patients 44 were treated with 220 PPV sessions and a positive clinical response was observed in 80% of patients but only in 45% of sessions. On a single session level, increased compliance was observed in 38% and increased oxygenation in only 15% of 220 sessions, with within‐patient heterogeneity. Higher dynamic compliance at the beginning of a PPV session was associated with a lower delta change in dynamic compliance during PPV. The response to a PPV session could not be predicted by the response in the prior session. Dynamic compliance did not change during the ECMO course.

Conclusion

Eighty percent of patients responded positively during a PPV session, but this was not associated with overall pulmonary improvement. On a single patient level, responses were heterogenous and only 45% of sessions resulted in clinical improvement. Response in dynamic compliance was associated with starting values of compliance.
What are the experiences of non‐invasive ventilation for sleep‐disordered breathing in children and young people and what outcomes matter? Perspectives of children and young people, their parents and the staff who care for them
Authors: Russell Jessica , Barber Victoria , Chan Elaine , Khair Kate , Rendle Garry , Wray Jo
Published: June 2024

Background

Non‐invasive ventilation (NIV) for sleep‐disordered breathing (SDB) in children and young people (CYP) can result in multiple health outcomes; however, adherence to NIV can be challenging. Suboptimally treated SDB may increase the risk of adverse consequences. Placing children's and parents' goals at the core of their SDB treatment may support adherence to NIV. To identify these health outcomes, it is necessary to gain a greater understanding of CYP's experiences of using NIV, whether they perceive any benefits from NIV use, as well as the outcomes that their parents and NIV staff identify as important.

Methods

Semi‐structured qualitative interviews were conducted with nine CYP (aged 4–16 + years), 13 parents and nine healthcare professionals (HCPs); verbatim transcripts were analysed using Framework Analysis.

Results

CYP predominantly reported an improvement in levels of energy, focus and ability to concentrate whereas parents also identified outcomes of mood and behaviour. The majority of children showed understanding of the reasons for being prescribed NIV. A subset of children did not notice their SDB. The health outcomes identified by HCPs and parents that could result from improved overnight gas exchange are subjective measures that rely on parent and child report. Measuring these health outcomes focussed on the impact of improved sleep rather than measuring improved sleep itself.

Conclusions

It is important for HCPs administering NIV to ascertain whether CYP have noticed any of their sleep‐disordered breathing symptoms and any improvements from using NIV, including the relationship between benefits and side effects. Focussing on promoting understanding for CYP who are unable to link their wellbeing to their previous night's sleep may be futile and HCP strategies should concentrate on the process of tolerating the device. Parents, CYP and HCPs should collaborate to identify treatment goals specifically tailored for the child and monitor any progress against these goals.
Beyond symptomatology: A comparative analysis of unilateral and bilateral macronodular mild autonomous cortisol secretion
Authors: Barlas Tugba , Gultekin Isil Imge , Altintop Sabri Engin , Cindil Emetullah , Yalcin Mehmet Muhittin , Cerit Ethem Turgay , Sozen Tevfik Sinan , Poyraz Aylar , Altinova Alev Eroglu , Toruner Fusun Balos , Karakoc Mehmet Ayhan , Akturk Mujde
Published: June 2024

Objective

To investigate the clinical, laboratory findings and signal intensity index (SII) on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of patients with bilateral and unilateral macronodular mild autonomous cortisol secretion (MACS).

Patients and Measurements

Clinical and laboratory findings of 81 patients with MACS were examined from retrospective records. SII of adenomas and internodular areas were evaluated by MRI. The unilateral group included patients with an adrenal macronodule (≥1 cm) in a single adrenal gland, while the bilateral group included patients with at least one macronodule in both adrenal glands.

Results

In total, 46 patients were in the unilateral (57%), while 35 (43%) patients were in the bilateral groups. The dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEA‐S) level was lower in the unilateral than in the bilateral group (p < .001). The presence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) concentrations were higher in the bilateral group (p < .05). However, no significant difference was detected in terms of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and overnight 1 mg dexamethasone suppression test (DST) between the two groups (p > .05). There was no difference in SII between adenomas within the same patient, as well as between the unilateral and bilateral groups (p > .05). Logistic regression analysis based on the differentiation between unilateral and bilateral macronodular MACS demonstrated that DHEA‐S, HbA1c and LDL concentrations were associated factors.

Conclusion

DHEA‐S levels may not be as suppressed in patients with bilateral macronodular MACS as compared to those with unilateral adenoma. T2DM and hypercholesterolaemia have a higher frequency in bilateral patients. However, ACTH, overnight 1 mg DST and SII may not provide additional information for differentiation of bilaterality and unilaterality.
ADGRL1 variants: From developmental and epileptic encephalopathy to genetic epilepsy with febrile seizures plus
Authors: Lei Wenting , Xiong Yurong , Shi Yongyuan , Song Lingling , Xiang Jing , Yang Fan , Wu Xi , Wang Huifeng , Tian Maoqiang
Published: June 2024

Aim

To expand the phenotypic spectrum of ADGRL1 and explore the correlation between epilepsy and the ADGRL1 genotype.

Method

We performed whole‐exome sequencing in a cohort of 115 families (including 195 males and 150 females) with familial febrile seizure or epilepsy with unexplained aetiology. The damaging effects of variants was predicted using protein modelling and multiple in silico tools. All reported patients with ADGRL1 pathogenic variants were analysed.

Results

One new ADGRL1 variant (p.Pro753Leu) was identified in one family with genetic epilepsy with febrile seizures. Further analysis of 12 ADGRL1 variants in 16 patients revealed that six patients had epilepsy. Epilepsy types ranged from early‐onset epileptic encephalopathy to genetic epilepsy with febrile seizures plus (GEFS+). All four variants associated with epilepsy were located in the non‐helix or sheet region of ADGRL1. Three of the four epilepsy‐associated variants were missense variants. Thus, all three variants located in the G‐protein‐coupled receptor autoproteolytic‐inducing domain exhibited epilepsy.

Interpretation

We found one new missense variant of ADGRL1 in one family with GEFS+. ADGRL1 may be a potential candidate or susceptibility gene for epilepsy. ADGRL1‐associated epilepsy ranged from benign GEFS+ to severe epileptic encephalopathy; the genotypes and variant locations may help explain the phenotypic heterogeneity of patients with the ADGRL1 variant.
Innovative solution or cause for concern? The use of continuous glucose monitors in people not living with diabetes: A narrative review
Authors: Oganesova Zhanna , Pemberton John , Brown Adrian
Published: June 2024

Aims

Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) have expanded their scope beyond indicated uses for diabetes management and are gaining traction among people not living with diabetes (PNLD). CGMs track in time glucose levels and are proposed as tools for the early detection of abnormal glucose and a potential solution for its normalisation through behavioural change, particularly, diet personalisation and motivation of physical activity. This becomes relevance given the growing incidence of metabolic conditions, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Clinical guidelines, however, do not recommend CGMs in contexts outside type 1 diabetes (T1DM) or insulin‐treated T2DM. Therefore, there is a visible disconnect between the indicated and real‐world usage of these medical devices. While the commercial market for CGMs in PNLD is expanding rapidly, a comprehensive and evidence‐based evaluation of the devices' utility in this population has not been done. Therefore, this review aims to formulate a working model for CGM utility in PNLD as proposed by the ‘health and wellness’ market that advertises and distributes it to these individuals.

Methods

We aim to critically analyse the available research addressing components of the working model, that is (1) detection of abnormal glucose; (2) behavioural change, and (3) metabolic health improvement.

Results

We find a lack of consistent and high‐quality evidence to support the utility of CGMs for these purposes. We identify significantly under‐reserved areas including clinical benchmarks and scoring procedures for CGM measures, device acceptability, and potential adverse effects of CGMs on eating habits in PNLD. We also raise concerns about the robustness of available CGM research.

Conclusion

In the face of these research gaps, we urge for the commercial claims suggesting the utility of the device in PNLD to be labelled as misleading. We argue that there is a regulatory inadequacy that fuels ‘off‐label’ CGM distribution and calls for the strengthening of post‐market clinical follow‐up oversight for CGMs. We hope this will help to avert the continued misinformation risk to PNLD and ‘off‐label’ exacerbation of health disparities.
Power and competition in the transitions toward postrentierism: The cases of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Mason Robert
Published: June 2024

The imperatives of economic diversification mean that Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are scrambling to secure international markets and investments amid a series of domestic changes taking place, including centralized decision making, the marginalization of other traditional modes of governance, and rising nationalism. While there is some evidence of formal security‐related cooperation in the Gulf Cooperation Council as well as an informal security alliance operationalized by Saudi Arabia and the UAE at the onset of the Arab uprisings, these two states have gone on to pursue competing economic policies. This article assesses the economic and political interactions of Saudi Arabia and the UAE, arguing that contrary to Rosecrance's concept of “virtual states” with an emphasis on services, expertise, and creativity, connected to visions strategies in these cases, their primary power remains rooted in territorial aspects. It also finds that there are other factors such as leadership style, political and economic role conceptions, the regional and international balance of power, threat perception, and alliance formation that will continue to determine the shape and form of their cooperation or competition.
The development of extremely large male genitalia under spatial limitation
Authors: Terada Karen , Furumoto Chinami , Nishimura Taira , Hirayama Akihiro , Takami Yasuoki
Published: June 2024

Extensive research in evolutionary biology has focused on the exaggeration of sexual traits; however, the developmental basis of exaggerated sexual traits has only been determined in a few cases. The evolution of exaggerated sexual traits may involve the relaxation of constraints or developmental processes mitigating constraints. Ground beetles in the subgenus Ohomopterus (genus Carabus) have species‐specific genitalia that show coevolutionary divergence between the sexes. Here, we examined the morphogenesis of the remarkably enlarged male and female genitalia of Carabus uenoi by X‐ray microcomputed tomography. The morphogenetic processes generating the male and female genitalia at the pupal stage were qualitatively similar to those in closely related species with standard genital sizes. Higher growth rates contributed to the exaggeration of both the male and female genital parts of C. uenoi, possibly related to a gene network commonly upregulated in both sexes. Additionally, the length of the copulatory piece (CP), the enlarged male genital part stored in the aedeagus (AD), reached close to that of the AD at the later developmental stages and thereafter decelerated to grow in parallel with the AD, suggesting a structural constraint on the CP by the outer AD. Then, unlike related species, the lengths of the CP and AD increased at eclosion, suggesting a mechanism leading to further elongation of the male genitalia. These observations suggest that a developmental process allows continuous growth of the male genitalia even under the spatial limitation. These results revealed the spatio‐temporal dynamics of the development of exaggerated genital structures under structural constraints.
Ganoderma butt rot of hazelnut (Corylus avellana) caused by Ganoderma adspersum in Türkiye
Authors: Türkkan Muharrem , Derviş Sibel , Özgümüş Özlem , Özer Göksel
Published: June 2024

In September 2022, hazelnut trees in six orchards in the Çarşamba district of Samsun province, a major hazelnut production area in the Black Sea region of Türkiye, showed symptoms of leaf yellowing, shoot dieback, decline, basal stem rot and the presence of brown bracket‐like sessile basidiocarps. Approximately 5%–10% of hazelnut trees were affected, highlighting the significant impact of the disease. A comprehensive morphological analysis was conducted to characterize fungal isolates obtained from symptomatic tissues as G. adspersum. This analysis incorporated features observed in basidiomata from declining trees and those reproduced after isolates were cultivated on wheat grain for spawn production and grown on an oak sawdust‐based substrate. Confirmation of identification was achieved through the utilization of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS), large subunit (LSU) and small subunit (SSU) loci, along with sequencing and subsequent phylogenetic analysis. The G. adspersum isolates generally exhibited no significant growth differences at similar temperatures but demonstrated enhanced growth at 30°C, while growth was completely inhibited at 40°C. Incompatible reactions between isolates confirmed that distinct genotypes were present, highlighting genetic diversity within the species. In the pathogenicity trials, employing a single infested wheat grain per inoculation at the wounded site, hazelnut suckers exhibited distinct brown discolouration surrounding the inoculation site following a 2.5‐month incubation period. Significantly, lesions exceeding 3 cm in length were observed, providing clear evidence of vigorous pathogenic activity by G. adspersum. This study is the first report of G. adspersum causing butt rot in hazelnuts, underscoring the significance of this finding for hazelnut cultivation and providing a foundation for future research and disease management strategies.
Biosecurity perceptions among Ontario horse owners during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Germann Juliet A. , O'Sullivan Terri L. , Greer Amy L. , Spence Kelsey L.
Published: June 2024

Background

Disease outbreaks present a significant challenge to horse health and welfare and the economic stability of horse industries internationally. This is a particular concern in Ontario, Canada, where there have been frequent outbreaks of respiratory infectious diseases among horses. Despite these risks, there has been limited research on whether Ontario horse owners engage in biosecurity measures sufficient to mitigate risk of equine diseases, and whether current events such as the COVID‐19 pandemic influence attitudes towards equine biosecurity practices.

Objective

To explore Ontario horse owners' perceptions, attitudes and experiences relating to on‐farm biosecurity during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Study design

Qualitative study using virtual semi‐structured interviews.

Methods

Participants (horse owners, frequent horse riders and part boarders) were recruited using social media snowball sampling where advertisements were shared by equine and veterinary organisations. Interviews were conducted virtually between June and September 2022 and were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Three key themes relating to biosecurity perceptions among the 14 participants were identified. Participants relied on minimal preventative measures (such as vaccines) where perceived risk of disease was low, but implemented additional measures including quarantine and handwashing when perceived risk of disease was high. Participants' choice of biosecurity practices often mirrored those recommended by the barn manager. Moreover, participants felt that responsibility for biosecurity was not shared equally across horse owners, with more emphasis placed on those engaging in high‐risk situations for disease spread. Despite experiencing biosecurity during the COVID‐19 pandemic, horse owners were not consistently applying these practices to their horse care routines.

Main limitations

The perspectives reported here are from a small sample of horse owners and may not be generalisable to all populations.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that horse owners need improved access to and engagement with educational initiatives that emphasise the importance and purpose of all biosecurity measures.
Influence of surgical intervention at the level of the dorsal spinous processes on the biomechanics of the equine thoracolumbar spine
Authors: Baudisch Natalie , Singer Ellen , Jensen Katharina Charlotte , Eichler Fabienne , Meyer Henning Jürgen , Lischer Christoph , Ehrle Anna
Published: June 2024

Background

Surgical treatment options for horses with overriding dorsal spinous processes include interspinous ligament desmotomy and partial spinous process ostectomy. The impact of spinal surgery on the three‐dimensional biomechanics of the equine thoracolumbar spine and the epaxial musculature is unclear.

Objectives

To investigate the influence of interspinous ligament desmotomy and cranial wedge ostectomy on the biomechanics of the equine thoracolumbar spine and the paraspinal Musculi multifidi.

Study design

Ex‐vivo experiments.

Methods

Twelve equine thoracolumbar spine specimens were mounted in a custom‐made mechanical test rig. Based on computed tomographic imaging, distances between dorsal spinous processes and the spinal range of motion (lateral bending, axial rotation, flexion, extension) were compared before and after desmotomy and cranial wedge ostectomy performed at two or five surgical sites. Anatomical dissection was subsequently conducted to document surgical trauma to the Musculi multifidi following desmotomy.

Results

The distance between spinous processes in neutral position did not increase significantly after desmotomy (median preoperative = 7.2 mm, interquartile range [IQR] = 3.6 mm; median postoperative = 7.4 mm, IQR = 3.7 mm; p = 0.09), but increased significantly after ostectomy (median preoperative = 8.8 mm, IQR = 4.2 mm; median postoperative = 13 mm, IQR = 6.1 mm; p < 0.001). Both surgical procedures significantly increased the rotational spinal range of motion (p = 0.001), particularly at the level T14/T15 (median preoperative = 6.4°, IQR = 3.2°; median postoperative = 8.2°, IQR = 3.5°; increase = 28.1%; p = 0.02). Musculi multifidi injury was evident at all desmotomy sites.

Main limitations

Ex‐vivo study with limited sample size.

Conclusions

Neither interspinous ligament desmotomy nor cranial wedge ostectomy resulted in an increased range of motion during flexion, extension or lateral bending but both procedures influenced the rotational component of the equine thoracolumbar spinal mobility.
Developmental and tissue‐specific roles of mammalian centrosomes
Authors: Meyer‐Gerards Charlotte , Bazzi Hisham
Published: June 2024

Centrosomes are dominant microtubule organizing centers in animal cells with a pair of centrioles at their core. They template cilia during interphase and help organize the mitotic spindle for a more efficient cell division. Here, we review the roles of centrosomes in the early developing mouse and during organ formation. Mammalian cells respond to centrosome loss‐of‐function by activating the mitotic surveillance pathway, a timing mechanism that, when a defined mitotic duration is exceeded, leads to p53‐dependent cell death in the descendants. Mouse embryos without centrioles are highly susceptible to this pathway and undergo embryonic arrest at mid‐gestation. The complete loss of the centriolar core results in earlier and more severe phenotypes than that of other centrosomal proteins. Finally, different developing tissues possess varying thresholds and mount graded responses to the loss of centrioles that go beyond the germ layer of origin.
Northeast Atlantic species distribution shifts over the last two decades
Authors: Le Luherne Emilie , Pawlowski Lionel , Robert Marianne
Published: June 2024

Marine species are widely shifting their distributions in response to global changes and it is commonly expected they will move northward and to greater depths to reach cooler, less disturbed habitats. However, local manifestations of global changes, anthropogenic pressures, and species characteristics may lead to unanticipated and varied responses by individual species. In this regard, the Celtic‐Biscay Shelf is a particularly interesting study system because it has historically been heavily fished and occurs at the interface between two distinct biogeographic provinces, its community thus comprised of species with diverse thermal preferenda. In the context of rapidly warming temperatures and intense fishery exploitation, we investigated the distribution shifts of 93 taxa (65 Actinopteri, 10 Elasmobranchii, 11 Cephalopoda, 5 Malacostraca, and 2 Bivalvia), which were sampled annually from 1997 to 2020 during a scientific bottom trawl survey. We used a set of 11 complementary spatial indices to quantify taxon distribution shifts over time. Then, we explored the relative effect of taxon abundance, fishing pressure, and climatic conditions on taxon's distribution shift when a significant shift was detected. We observed that 56% of the taxa significantly shifted. Not all taxa will necessarily shift northward and to deeper areas, as it is often expected. Two opposite patterns were identified: taxa either moving deeper and to the southeast, or moving closer to the surface and to the northwest. The main explanatory factors were climate change (short‐ and long‐term temperatures) and taxon abundance. Fishing pressure was the third, but still significant, explanatory factor of taxa of greater commercial importance. Our research highlights that taxa are displaying complex distribution shifts in response to the combined anthropogenic disturbances and underscores the need to conduct regional studies to better understand these responses at the ecosystem scale to develop more suitable management plans and policies.
Good girls? Ideal workers in online retail warehousing
Authors: Rydström Klara
Published: June 2024

Online retailing challenges the traditional male coding of warehousing. Based upon an ethnographic study at two Swedish online retail warehouses, this article seeks to understand why certain warehouses are numerically dominated by women. Employees express that men are less focused and more careless and easily bored than women, and hence not desirable for the goods‐handling work. The warehouses extend to hard‐working women driven by the shame of doing wrong, which reflect their orientation of bodies in the direction of enhancing production and profit. Workers attribute the positive social atmosphere at the warehouses to the numerical dominance of women and the small size of the workplaces. At the one hand, the constructed sameness of (women) workers through hard work and jargon contribute to a collective identity that strengthens them. At the other hand, the binary gendering of work and workers also contribute to making the ware houses into ‘straight spaces’ (Ahmed, 2006).
Preparation of WC@graphene reinforced titanium diboride‐based composite ceramic materials fabricated via SPS
Authors: Xu Ruidong , Chen Hui , Zhang Jingjie , Xiao Guangchun , Yi Mingdong , Chen Zhaoqiang , Meng Xianglong , Xu Chonghai
Published: June 2024

Liquid‐phase laser irradiation technology was utilized to synthesize graphene‐coated tungsten carbide (WC@G) core–shell composite materials with regular spherical morphology. Characterization via scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X‐ray diffraction, and Raman spectroscopy revealed the evolution of WC particle microstructure from sharp edges to regular spherical shapes post‐laser irradiation. High‐resolution TEM displayed a tightly knit core–shell structure. Raman spectroscopy confirmed graphene presence through D, G, and 2D peaks. Incorporation of WC@G into a titanium diboride matrix, followed by discharge plasma sintering, yielded TiB2/WC@G composite ceramic materials. Compared to TiB2/WC/G composite ceramic materials, the WC@G core–shell structure significantly enhanced sintering performance. Optimal mechanical properties were achieved with 6 wt.% WC@G, exhibiting a relative density of 99.6%, Vickers hardness of 18.5 GPa, flexural strength of 696.9 MPa, and fracture toughness of 8.5 MPa m1/2. Characterization identified graphene detachment, pull‐out, and fracture deflection as key mechanisms enhancing toughness in TiB2/WC@G composite ceramic materials.
Sending Signals or Building Bridges? Digital Sovereignty in EU Communicative and Co‐Ordinative Discourse
Authors: Wenzelburger Georg , König Pascal D.
Published: June 2024

This article studies the role that ‘digital sovereignty’ performs in the EU's digital policy discourse comparing speeches by high‐level European Commission officials and Members of the European Parliament (MEPs). It indicates that the concept of digital sovereignty is not mentioned very frequently, neither in the European Parliament (EP) nor in the public statements of top EU officials. It is furthermore not closely linked to specific policy ideas, not even to the idea of promoting European values in the world as a way of openly projecting digital sovereignty outward. EP actors mainly refer to policy‐related aspects of digital sovereignty, and these show systematic affinities to parties' ideologies – primarily along an axis of economic development versus protecting personal rights – and to EP committees. Hence, digital sovereignty does not seem to mainly serve as normative idea directed at the public sphere but emerges as a common denominator to which different relevant actors within the EU decision‐making system can equally relate.
Diagnosis and management of inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Li Lili , Cheng Rui , Wu Yushan , Lin Hao , Gan Huatian , Zhang Hu
Published: June 2024

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic and relapsing immune‐mediated disease of the gastrointestinal tract with a gradually increasing global incidence and prevalence. A prolonged course of IBD leads to a decline in patient quality of life and the creation of a substantial economic burden on society. Owing to the lack of specific diagnostic markers, the diagnosis of IBD still needs a gold standard based on a combination of clinical manifestations, imaging, laboratory, and endoscopic results. Accordingly, the current goals of IBD treatment are to alleviate clinical symptoms and reduce recurrence rates. Therefore, it is imperative to develop a standard set of procedures to diagnose and treat IBD. In this review, we summarize prominent and emerging studies, outline classical and contemporary approaches to diagnosing and managing IBD, and integrate multiple guidelines. Furthermore, we propose the possibility of establishing an early and comprehensive diagnostic workflow and personalized management strategy in the future. We aim to enhance the quality and standardization of diagnostic and treatment procedures for IBD.