bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influencing social enterprise resilience by intellectual capital and the contribution of female leadership: insights from the Italian context
Authors: Paoloni Paola , Cosentino Antonietta , Arduini Simona , della Corte Gaetano
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to verify which intangible assets attributable to intellectual capital (IC) influence the anti-cyclical nature and the resilience of social enterprises (SEs) during systemic crises and whether these factors take on particular connotations in female-run SEs.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative methodology based on multiple case studies is used to answer the research questions. A set of SEs operating in the catering sector is analyzed. The analysis is carried out by in-depth interviews with male and female managers of SEs to understand which resilience IC factors were most activated during full emergency and recovery stages.

Findings

The results confirm the anti-cyclical nature of SEs and their resilience to systemic crises. No distinct differences emerge between female and male SEs. Concerning the IC, relational capital (RC) is the most relevant intangible asset for small and medium-sized SEs. Internal and external relations support them during the crisis and the consolidation of trusted ties, formal and informal, external and internal, favor the Recovery. The RC is a crucial resource even in bigger SEs, but some differences are detected concerning the smaller ones. In the smaller SEs, informal relations prevail, while formal relations prevail in the larger ones, particularly with institutions. Furthermore, the RC is the sole or primary resource in the smaller SEs, while the bigger SEs can count on more varied intangible resources.

Originality/value

This study offers an original contribution to studies on IC by focusing on the factors little analyzed by existing studies: (1) SE management, (2) the contribution of IC to the resilience of non-profit-oriented enterprises and (3) the search for elements of differentiation between SEs with male and female leadership.
The influence of public sector audit digitalisation on local government budget planning: evidence from Brazil
Authors: Lino André Feliciano , Azevedo Ricardo Rocha de , Belote Guilherme Simões
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This article analysed how data collection systems (DCS) developed by governmental audit organizations (Court of Accounts) affect budgetary planning within local governments.

Design/methodology/approach

Eighteen semi-structured interviews complemented by six time-lagged interviews via WhatsApp were carried out with the actors involved in the preparation and auditing of the Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) in Brazilian local governments. Documents such as the structured layouts of Courts' DCS and the publicised MTEF prepared by local governments were also analysed.

Findings

The findings indicate that Courts' DCS structured layouts reduce local governments' budgetary planning autonomy in elaborating their MTEF. It happens as the Courts' main driver is to make MTEF information auditable and not to improve the usefulness of information by governments. As a result, the planning choices of the local governments end up limited, not by the general legislation but by the rules established by the computerized systems of the Courts.

Originality/value

The paper's originality relies on demonstrating that the digitalisation of audit processes ultimately affects local governments' practices through structured layouts for the data collection on MTEF information - that impose rigidity on the budget planning process of local governments. The authors highlight the role of public sector auditing organisations as potential catalysts of reforms; however, this should be considered cautiously since the drivers and motivations of the organisation that sponsors public financial management reforms matter for overall reform effectiveness.
The Ghost and the Rock: Albert Renger‐Patzsch and the Shape of Time
Authors: Luke Megan R.
Published: March 2023

The career of photographer Albert Renger‐Patzsch began in the early 1920s in the storerooms of Germany's ethnographic museums, and ended in 1966 with the publication of his last photobook, Gestein (Rock). His reputation as a leading exponent of Neue Sachlichkeit (New Objectivity) developed in tandem with heated debates over sculptural facsimiles and contemporary art in the historical museum in the late Weimar Republic. These debates gave expression to the ‘non‐simultaneity of the simultaneous’ (Ungleichzeitigkeit des Gleichzeitigen), a central concept for the crisis of historicism in the post‐inflation years. In an age of mass reproduction, could ‘things’ still reliably embody and convey the past into present? This question took on renewed urgency for Renger at the end of his life – as, indeed, it did for many writers of his generation, who, if they outlived Nazi terror, genocide, and war, looked back on the historical valence of objecthood as unfinished business.
Expertise, Public Health and the European Convention on Human Rights: Vavřička v Czech Republic
Authors: McWhirter Rebekah , Clark Martin
Published: March 2023

In Vavřička v Czech Republic, the European Court of Human Rights held that the Czech Republic's childhood vaccination policy did not contravene the Article 8 right to private life. This note presents a rhetorical and contextual analysis of the Court's engagement with questions of expertise. The majority's application of a wide margin of appreciation avoided grappling with the details of scientific and medical authority, as much as the political challenges raised by the application. We conclude by considering the wider context and limits of rights‐based approaches to global public health.
Party preferences, individual views and mobility during the pandemic
Authors: KLYMAK MARGARYTA , VLANDAS TIM
Published: March 2023

What is the association between partisanship, individual views and behaviours towards the pandemic? This research note explores this question empirically using two datasets collected before and during the Covid‐19 pandemic: a daily survey covering nearly 100,000 individuals and county level mobility matched to UK 2019 general election results. At the individual level, our findings show that partisanship is strongly correlated with differences in both views and behaviours. Conservative voters were less likely to perceive Covid‐19 as dangerous and less likely to stay home during the national lockdown. At the county level, the effect of the national lockdown on mobility was negative and statistically significant only in less Conservative counties. Thus, partisanship is associated with different individual views and behaviours towards the pandemic even when there is broad consensus among the main political parties and the government about the nature of a public health problem and the appropriate policy response.
Copper‐based nanoparticles for biopolymer‐based functional films in food packaging applications
Authors: Zhang Wanli , Roy Swarup , Rhim Jong‐Whan
Published: March 2023

This review summarizes the latest developments in the design, fabrication, and application of various Cu‐based nanofillers to prepare biopolymer‐based functional packaging films, focusing on the effects of inorganic nanoparticles on the optical, mechanical, gas barrier properties, moisture sensitivity, and functional properties of the films. In addition, the potential application of Cu‐based nanoparticle‐added biopolymer films for fresh food preservation and the effect of nanoparticle migration on food safety were discussed. The incorporation of Cu‐based nanoparticles improved the film properties with enhanced functional performance. Cu‐based nanoparticles such as copper oxide, copper sulfide, copper ions, and copper alloys affect biopolymer‐based films differently. The properties of composite films containing Cu‐based nanoparticles depend on the concentration of the filler, the state of dispersion, and the interaction of the nanoparticles with the biopolymer matrix in the film. The composite film filled with Cu‐based nanoparticles effectively extended the shelf life by maintaining the quality of various fresh foods and securing safety. However, studies on the migration characteristics and safety of copper‐based nanoparticle food packaging films are currently being conducted on plastic‐based films such as polyethylene, and research on bio‐based films is limited.
Altitude‐dependent metabolite biomarkers reveal the mechanism of plateau pika adaptation to high altitudes
Authors: CHEN Xi , WANG Zaiwei , SU Junhu , LI Huan , XIONG Jinbo , FU Keyi , WANG Zilong , YUAN Xuefeng , SHI Ziyue , MIAO Xiumei , YANG Mei , YANG Yunfeng , SHI Zunji
Published: March 2023

The harsh environment in the Tibetan plateau, the highest place in the world, poses thermoregulatory challenges and hypoxic stress to animals. The impacts of plateau environment on animal physiology and reproduction include external factors such as strong ultraviolet radiation and low temperature, and internal factors such as animal metabolites and gut microbiota. However, it remains unclear how plateau pika adapt to high altitudes through the combination of serum metabolites and gut microbiota. To this end, we captured 24 wild plateau pikas at the altitudes of 3400, 3600, or 3800 m a.s.l. in a Tibetan alpine grassland. Using the machine learning algorithms (random forest), we identified five biomarkers of serum metabolites indicative of the altitudes, that is, dihydrotestosterone, homo‐l‐arginine, alpha‐ketoglutaric‐acid, serotonin, and threonine, which were related to body weight, reproduction, and energy metabolism of pika. Those metabolic biomarkers were positively correlated with Lachnospiraceae_ Agathobacter, Ruminococcaceae, or Prevotellaceae_Prevotella, suggesting the close relationship between metabolites and gut microbiota. By identifying the metabolic biomarkers and gut microbiota analysis, we reveal the mechanisms of adaptation to high altitudes in plateau pika.
Addressing the impact of canine distemper spreading on an isolated tiger population in northeast Asia
Authors: WANG Dawei , SMITH James L. D. , ACCATINO Francesco , GE Jianping , WANG Tianming
Published: March 2023

The continuation of the isolated Amur tiger (Panthera tigris altaica) population living along the China–Russia border is facing serious challenges due to factors such as its small size (including 38 individuals) and canine distemper virus (CDV). We use a population viability analysis metamodel, which consists of a traditional individual‐based demographic model linked to an epidemiological model, to assess options for controlling the impact of negative factors through domestic dog management in protected areas, increasing connectivity to the neighboring large population (including more than 400 individuals), and habitat expansion. Without intervention, under inbreeding depression of 3.14, 6.29, and 12.26 lethal equivalents, our metamodel predicted the extinction within 100 years is 64.4%, 90.6%, and 99.8%, respectively. In addition, the simulation results showed that dog management or habitat expansion independently will not ensure tiger population viability for the next 100 years, and connectivity to the neighboring population would only keep the population size from rapidly declining. However, when the above three conservation scenarios are combined, even at the highest level of 12.26 lethal equivalents inbreeding depression, population size will not decline and the probability of extinction will be <5.8%. Our findings highlight that protecting the Amur tiger necessitates a multifaceted synergistic effort. Our key management recommendations for this population underline the importance of reducing CDV threats and expanding tiger occupancy to its former range in China, but re‐establishing habitat connectivity to the neighboring population is an important long‐term objective.
Changes in phenolics and flavonoids in amaranth and soybean sprouts after UV‐C treatment
Authors: García‐Mosqueda Cristina , Cerón‐García Abel , León‐Galván Ma. Fabiola , Ozuna César , López‐Malo Aurelio , Sosa‐Morales María Elena
Published: March 2023

Sprouts, mainly from cereals, legumes, and some pseudo‐cereals, are rich in nutrients and contain biocompounds, making them attractive for consumption. This research study aimed to develop treatments with UV‐C light in soybean and amaranth sprouts and evaluate their effect on biocompounds content, compared with chlorine treatments. UV‐C treatments were applied at distances of 3 and 5 cm and times of 2.5, 5, 10, 15, 20, and 30 min, whereas chlorine treatments were applied as immersion in solutions at 100 and 200 ppm for 15 min. Phenolics and flavonoid content were higher in UV‐C‐treated sprouts than in those treated with chlorine solutions. Ten biocompounds were identified in soybean sprouts, with increasing in apigenin C‐glucoside‐rhamnoside (105%), apigenin 7‐O‐glucosylglucoside (237%), and apigenin C‐glucoside malonylated (70%) due to UV‐C application (3 cm, 15 min); for amaranth sprouts, five biocompounds were identified, with higher contents of p‐coumaroylquinic acid (17.7%) after UV‐C treatment (3 cm, 15 min). The best treatment to achieve the highest bioactive compounds concentration was UV‐C at a distance of 3 cm for 15 min, without significant modification on the color parameters, Hue and chroma.

Practical Application

UV‐C can be used to increase the biocompound content in amaranth and soybean sprouts. Nowadays, there is UV‐C equipment available for industrial applications. In this way, sprouts may be maintained as fresh through this physical technology, and they will retain or increase the concentration of health‐related compounds.
Weaponising microbes for peace
Authors: Anand Shailly , Hallsworth John E. , Timmis James , Verstraete Willy , Casadevall Arturo , Ramos Juan Luis , Sood Utkarsh , Kumar Roshan , Hira Princy , Dogra Rawat Charu , Kumar Abhilash , Lal Sukanya , Lal Rup , Timmis Kenneth
Published: March 2023

There is much human disadvantage and unmet need in the world, including deficits in basic resources and services considered to be human rights, such as drinking water, sanitation and hygiene, healthy nutrition, access to basic healthcare, and a clean environment. Furthermore, there are substantive asymmetries in the distribution of key resources among peoples. These deficits and asymmetries can lead to local and regional crises among peoples competing for limited resources, which, in turn, can become sources of discontent and conflict. Such conflicts have the potential to escalate into regional wars and even lead to global instability. Ergo: in addition to moral and ethical imperatives to level up, to ensure that all peoples have basic resources and services essential for healthy living and to reduce inequalities, all nations have a self‐interest to pursue with determination all available avenues to promote peace through reducing sources of conflicts in the world. Microorganisms and pertinent microbial technologies have unique and exceptional abilities to provide, or contribute to the provision of, basic resources and services that are lacking in many parts of the world, and thereby address key deficits that might constitute sources of conflict. However, the deployment of such technologies to this end is seriously underexploited. Here, we highlight some of the key available and emerging technologies that demand greater consideration and exploitation in endeavours to eliminate unnecessary deprivations, enable healthy lives of all and remove preventable grounds for competition over limited resources that can escalate into conflicts in the world. We exhort central actors: microbiologists, funding agencies and philanthropic organisations, politicians worldwide and international governmental and non‐governmental organisations, to engage – in full partnership – with all relevant stakeholders, to ‘weaponise’ microbes and microbial technologies to fight resource deficits and asymmetries, in particular among the most vulnerable populations, and thereby create humanitarian conditions more conducive to harmony and peace.
Disrupted dynamic functional network connectivity in fetal alcohol spectrum disorders
Authors: Candelaria‐Cook Felicha T. , Schendel Megan E. , Flynn Lucinda , Cerros Cassandra , Hill Dina E. , Stephen Julia M.
Published: March 2023

Background

Prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) can result in harmful and long‐lasting neurodevelopmental changes. Children with PAE or a fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) have decreased white matter volume and resting‐state spectral power compared to typically developing controls (TDC) and impaired resting‐state static functional connectivity. The impact of PAE on resting‐state dynamic functional network connectivity (dFNC) is unknown.

Methods

Using eyes‐closed and eyes‐open magnetoencephalography (MEG) resting‐state data, global dFNC statistics and meta‐states were examined in 89 children aged 6–16 years (51 TDC, 38 with FASD). Source analyzed MEG data were used as input to group spatial independent component analysis to derive functional networks from which the dFNC was calculated.

Results

During eyes‐closed, relative to TDC, participants with FASD spent a significantly longer time in state 2, typified by anticorrelation (i.e., decreased connectivity) within and between default mode network (DMN) and visual network (VN), and state 4, typified by stronger internetwork correlation. The FASD group exhibited greater dynamic fluidity and dynamic range (i.e., entered more states, changed from one meta‐state to another more often, and traveled greater distances) than TDC. During eyes‐open, TDC spent significantly more time in state 1, typified by positive intra‐ and interdomain connectivity with modest correlation within the frontal network (FN), while participants with FASD spent a larger fraction of time in state 2, typified by anticorrelation within and between DMN and VN and strong correlation within and between FN, attention network, and sensorimotor network.

Conclusions

There are important resting‐state dFNC differences between children with FASD and TDC. Participants with FASD exhibited greater dynamic fluidity and dynamic range and spent more time in states typified by anticorrelation within and between DMN and VN, and more time in a state typified by high internetwork connectivity. Taken together, these network aberrations indicate that prenatal alcohol exposure has a global effect on resting‐state connectivity.
Using machine learning to retrospectively predict self‐reported gambling problems in Quebec
Authors: Murch W. Spencer , Kairouz Sylvia , Dauphinais Sophie , Picard Elyse , Costes Jean‐Michel , French Martin
Published: March 2023

Background and Aims

Participating in online gambling is associated with an increased risk for experiencing gambling‐related harms, driving calls for more effective, personalized harm prevention initiatives. Such initiatives depend on the development of models capable of detecting at‐risk online gamblers. We aimed to determine whether machine learning algorithms can use site data to detect retrospectively at‐risk online gamblers indicated by the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI).

Design

Exploratory comparison of six prominent supervised machine learning methods (decision trees, random forests, K‐nearest neighbours, logistic regressions, artificial neural networks and support vector machines) to predict problem gambling risk levels reported on the PGSI.

Setting

Lotoquebec.com (formerly espacejeux.com), an online gambling platform operated by Loto‐Québec (a provincial Crown Corporation) in Quebec, Canada.

Participants

N = 9145 adults (18+) who completed the survey measure and placed at least one bet using real money on the site.

Measurements

Participants completed the PGSI, a self‐report questionnaire with validated cut‐offs denoting a moderate‐to‐high‐risk (PGSI 5+) or high‐risk (PGSI 8+) for experiencing past‐year gambling‐related problems. Participants agreed to release additional data about the preceding 12 months from their user accounts. Predictor variables (144) were derived from users’ transactions, apparent betting behaviours, listed demographics and use of responsible gambling tools on the platform.

Findings

Our best classification models (random forests) for the PGSI 5+ and 8+ outcome variables accounted for 84.33% (95% CI = 82.24–86.41) and 82.52% (95% CI = 79.96–85.08) of the total area under their receiver operating characteristic curves, respectively. The most important factors in these models included the frequency and variability of participants’ betting behaviour and repeat engagement on the site.

Conclusions

Machine learning algorithms appear to be able to classify at‐risk online gamblers using data generated from their use of online gambling platforms. They may enable personalized harm prevention initiatives, but are constrained by trade‐offs between their sensitivity and precision.
The impact of higher rent levels on private health insurance enrollment: An exploratory analysis for a single state, Virginia
Authors: Cebula Richard J. , Ehrlich Zachary , Foley Maggie
Published: March 2023

This exploratory empirical study proffers and empirically examines the following two hypotheses: the higher the monthly rent levels being charged for apartments, the lower the percent of the population age 18 years to age 65 that opts to obtain private (whether group or individual) health insurance: and the greater the percentage growth rate of median household income, the greater the growth in the capacity to purchase health insurance. Panel 2SLS estimation provides what may be viewed as at least preliminary empirical support for both hypotheses. Certain policy implications are suggested.
Assessment of patient satisfaction following revision total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Quinn Jonathan , Jones Peter , Randle Ray
Published: March 2023

Background

Patient satisfaction is becoming an increasingly important measure of healthcare quality. Satisfaction following RTKA is poorly described within the literature, resulting in difficulty for clinicians to manage patient expectations and obtain informed consent.

Methods

We investigated postoperative satisfaction of RTKA patients by a single surgeon, using a single prosthesis, at a single institution. Patient satisfaction was assessed using structured telephone assessment questionnaires and review of orthopaedic/hospital records. The effect of patient and surgical characteristics on satisfaction was assessed using correlation coefficients and binary logistic regression in SPSS.

Results

Two hundred and two RTKAs were performed in 178 patients between 2004 and 2015 inclusive. One hundred and twenty‐four patients (143 RTKAs) were contactable to complete satisfaction assessment. Eighty‐five percent of patients were satisfied and would have the RTKA again, 8% were unsure, 7% would not. Mean reported satisfaction on a numerical scale (1–10) was 8.17 (range 1–10), with 74% of patients scoring 8 or above, and 35% of patients scoring 10. The Mahomed Satisfaction Scale outcomes demonstrated a mean score of 87.7. High positive correlation was found between assessment tools. Logistic regression analysis identified factors contributing to satisfaction included ROM, OKS, BMI, and surgical time.

Conclusion

This cohort demonstrated high patient satisfaction rate following RTKA, utilizing simple and reliable outcome measurement tools. We found a high positive correlation between methods of assessment, and moderate positive correlation between satisfaction and functional outcomes. These results contribute to the understanding of satisfaction in RTKA patients, which may assist in informing patients of expected post‐operative outcomes.
The clinical features, management and outcomes of lymphoma in pregnancy: A multicentre study by the Australasian Lymphoma Alliance
Authors: Di Ciaccio Pietro R. , Mills Georgia , Shipton Michael J. , Campbell Belinda , Gregory Gareth , Langfield Jenna , Greenwood Matthew , McKeague Sean , Shanavas Mohammad , Eslick Renee , Kidson‐Gerber Giselle , Smallbone Portia , Tang Catherine , Morris Kirk , Bilmon Ian , Yannakou Costas K. , Badoux Xavier , Berkahn Leanne , Farina Sergio , Mason Kylie D. , Motum Penelope , Goss Kathryn , Hamad Nada
Published: March 2023

Lymphoma in pregnancy (LIP) presents unique clinical, social and ethical challenges; however, the evidence regarding this clinical scenario is limited. We conducted a multicentre retrospective observational study reporting on the features, management, and outcomes of LIP in patients diagnosed between January 2009 and December 2020 at 16 sites in Australia and New Zealand for the first time. We included diagnoses occurring either during pregnancy or within the first 12 months following delivery. A total of 73 patients were included, 41 diagnosed antenatally (AN cohort) and 32 postnatally (PN cohort). The most common diagnoses were Hodgkin lymphoma (HL; 40 patients), diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL; 11) and primary mediastinal B‐cell lymphoma (PMBCL; six). At a median follow up of 2.37 years, the 2‐ and 5‐year overall survival (OS) for patients with HL were 91% and 82%. For the combined DLBCL and PMBCL group, the 2‐year OS was 92%. Standard curative chemotherapy regimens were successfully delivered to 64% of women in the AN cohort; however, counselling regarding future fertility and termination of pregnancy were suboptimal, and a standardised approach to staging lacking. Neonatal outcomes were generally favourable. We present a large multicentre cohort of LIP reflecting contemporary practice and identify areas in need of ongoing research.
Why trust? A mixed‐method investigation of the origins and meaning of trust during the COVID‐19 lockdown in Denmark
Authors: Power Séamus A. , Schaeffer Merlin , Heisig Jan P. , Udsen Rebecca , Morton Thomas
Published: March 2023

Trust is highlighted as central to effective disease management. During the COVID‐19 pandemic, Denmark seemed to embody this understanding. Characterizing the Danish response were high levels of public compliance with government regulations and restrictions coupled with high trust in the government and other members of society. In this article, we first revisit prior claims about the importance of trust in securing compliant citizen behaviour based on a weekly time‐use survey that we conducted during the first weeks of the COVID‐19 pandemic (2 April–18 May 2020). Analysis of activity episodes, rather than merely self‐reported compliance, both reconfirms the importance of institutional trust and nuances prior suggestions of detrimental effects of trust in other citizens. These survey‐based results are further augmented through thematic analysis of 21 in‐depth interviews with respondents sampled from the survey participants. The qualitative analysis reveals two themes, the first focusing on trust in others in Danish society and the second on the history of trust in Denmark. Both themes are based on narratives layered in cultural, institutional and inter‐personal levels and further underline that institutional and social trust are complementary and not countervailing. We conclude by discussing how our analysis suggests pathways towards an increased social contract between governments, institutions and individuals that might be of use during future global emergencies and to the overall functioning of democracies.
Forests are critically important to global pollinator diversity and enhance pollination in adjacent crops
Authors: Ulyshen Michael , Urban‐Mead Katherine R. , Dorey James B. , Rivers James W.
Published: March 2023

Although the importance of natural habitats to pollinator diversity is widely recognized, the value of forests to pollinating insects has been largely overlooked in many parts of the world. In this review, we (i) establish the importance of forests to global pollinator diversity, (ii) explore the relationship between forest cover and pollinator diversity in mixed‐use landscapes, and (iii) highlight the contributions of forest‐associated pollinators to pollination in adjacent crops. The literature shows unambiguously that native forests support a large number of forest‐dependent species and are thus critically important to global pollinator diversity. Many pollinator taxa require or benefit greatly from resources that are restricted to forests, such as floral resources provided by forest plants (including wind‐pollinated trees), dead wood for nesting, tree resins, and various non‐floral sugar sources (e.g. honeydew). Although landscape‐scale studies generally support the conclusion that forests enhance pollinator diversity, findings are often complicated by spatial scale, focal taxa, landscape context, temporal context, forest type, disturbance history, and external stressors. While some forest loss can be beneficial to pollinators by enhancing habitat complementarity, too much can result in the near‐elimination of forest‐associated species. There is strong evidence from studies of multiple crop types that forest cover can substantially increase yields in adjacent habitats, at least within the foraging ranges of the pollinators involved. The literature also suggests that forests may have enhanced importance to pollinators in the future given their role in mitigating the negative effects of pesticides and climate change. Many questions remain about the amount and configuration of forest cover required to promote the diversity of forest‐associated pollinators and their services within forests and in neighbouring habitats. However, it is clear from the current body of knowledge that any effort to preserve native woody habitats, including the protection of individual trees, will benefit pollinating insects and help maintain the critical services they provide.
Appraising Canada's 1979 Indian Health Policy: Informing co‐development of distinctions‐based Indigenous health legislation
Authors: Mashford‐Pringle Angela , Webb Denise
Published: March 2023

Aiming to improve the health of First Nations in 1979, the federal government implemented the Indian Health Policy to strengthen community development and the relationship with First Nations peoples, and nurture a trilateral relationship in the healthcare landscape. The Indian Health Policy remains the foundation for First Nations health policy and program development today, even without ever having an implementation plan. We critically appraise the Indian Health Policy to identify gaps and evaluate its impact and progress on subsequent policy evaluations, developments, and recent events in light of the new distinctions‐based Indigenous health legislation underway. Based on our findings, we provide recommendations to inform the federal government's efforts to co‐develop distinctions‐based Indigenous health legislation.
Paths of disclosure – The process of sharing experiences of child sexual abuse
Authors: Landberg Åsa , Kaldal Anna , Eriksson Maria
Published: March 2023

The objective was to explore how children and young people retrospectively described disclosure of child sexual abuse in relation to their own agency. Data consists of semi‐structured interviews with 14 participants that had disclosed sexual abuse during childhood. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed and analysed with thematical analysis. Participants' descriptions of their own agency in relation to disclosure of child sexual abuse, shows that both silence and disclosure can be active choices. By offering children choices trusting them to make decisions for themselves, their sense of control can be increased.
Xenopus: An in vivo model for studying skin response to ultraviolet B irradiation
Authors: El Mir Joudi , Fedou Sandrine , Thézé Nadine , Morice‐Picard Fanny , Cario Muriel , Fayyad‐Kazan Hussein , Thiébaud Pierre , Rezvani Hamid‐Reza
Published: March 2023

Ultraviolet B (UVB) in sunlight cause skin damage, ranging from wrinkles to photoaging and skin cancer. UVB can affect genomic DNA by creating cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs) and pyrimidine–pyrimidine (6–4) photoproducts (6–4PPs). These lesions are mainly repaired by the nucleotide excision repair (NER) system and by photolyase enzymes that are activated by blue light. Our main goal was to validate the use of Xenopus laevis as an in vivo model system for investigating the impact of UVB on skin physiology. The mRNA expression levels of xpc and six other genes of the NER system and CPD/6–4PP photolyases were found at all stages of embryonic development and in all adult tissues tested. When examining Xenopus embryos at different time points after UVB irradiation, we observed a gradual decrease in CPD levels and an increased number of apoptotic cells, together with an epidermal thickening and an increased dendricity of melanocytes. We observed a quick removal of CPDs when embryos are exposed to blue light versus in the dark, confirming the efficient activation of photolyases. A decrease in the number of apoptotic cells and an accelerated return to normal proliferation rate was noted in blue light‐exposed embryos compared with their control counterparts. Overall, a gradual decrease in CPD levels, detection of apoptotic cells, thickening of epidermis, and increased dendricity of melanocytes, emulate human skin responses to UVB and support Xenopus as an appropriate and alternative model for such studies.
Cortical oscillations and interareal synchronization as a preparatory activity for postural response
Authors: Fujio Kimiya , Obata Hiroki , Takeda Kenta , Kawashima Noritaka
Published: March 2023

Neural mechanisms of human standing are expected to be elucidated for preventing fallings. Postural response evoked by sudden external perturbation originates from various areas in the central nervous system. Recent studies have revealed that the corticospinal pathway is one of the key nodes for an appropriate postural response. The corticospinal pathway that mediates the early part of the electromyographic response is modulated with prediction before a perturbation occurs. Temporal prediction explicitly exhibiting an onset timing contributes to enhancing corticospinal excitability. However, how the cortical activities in the sensorimotor area with temporal prediction are processed before the corticospinal pathway enhancement remains unclear. In this study, using electroencephalography, we investigated how temporal prediction affects both neural oscillations and synchronization between sensorimotor and distal areas. Our results revealed that desynchronization of cortical oscillation at α‐ and β‐bands was observed in the sensorimotor and parietooccipital areas (Cz, CPz, Pz and POz), and those are nested in the phase at θ‐band frequency. Furthermore, a reduction in the interareal phase synchrony in the α‐band was induced after the timing cue for the perturbation onset. The phase synchrony at the low frequency can relay the temporal prediction among the distant areas and initiate the modulation of the local cortical activities. Such modulations contribute to the preparation for sensory processing and motor execution that are necessary for optimal responses.
The microbiome–gut–brain axis in epilepsy: pharmacotherapeutic target from bench evidence for potential bedside applications
Authors: Kundu Snehashis , Nayak Sudipta , Rakshit Debarati , Singh Tanveer , Shukla Rahul , Khatri Dharmendra Kumar , Mishra Awanish
Published: March 2023

The gut–brain axis augments the bidirectional communication between the gut and brain and modulates gut homeostasis and the central nervous system through the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, enteroendocrine system, neuroendocrine system, inflammatory and immune pathways. Preclinical and clinical reports showed that gut dysbiosis might play a major regulatory role in neurological diseases such as epilepsy, Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer's disease. Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disease that causes recurrent and unprovoked seizures, and numerous risk factors are implicated in developing epilepsy. Advanced consideration of the gut–microbiota–brain axis can reduce ambiguity about epilepsy pathology, antiepileptic drugs, and effective therapeutic targets. Gut microbiota sequencing analysis reported that the level of Proteobacteria, Verrucomicrobia, Fusobacteria, and Firmicutes was increased and the level of Actinobacteria and Bacteroidetes was decreased in epilepsy patients. Clinical and preclinical studies also indicated that probiotics, ketogenic diet, faecal microbiota transplantation, and antibiotics can improve gut dysbiosis and alleviate seizure by enhancing the abundance of healthy biota. This study aims to give an overview of the connection between gut microbiota, and epilepsy, how gut microbiome changes may cause epilepsy, and whether gut microbiome restoration could be used as a treatment for epilepsy.
Diagnosis and management of spermiostasis in a Shetland stallion
Authors: Frink Abigail R. , Podico Giorgia , Canisso Igor F.
Published: March 2023

Spermiostasis (or sperm accumulation) is an ejaculatory dysfunction of common occurrence in referral reproductive practice with stallions. The accumulation of sperm in the epididymides, ducti deferens, and ampullae results in ejaculates with a high concentration of degenerated sperm. It is estimated that 5% of light‐breed stallions present this condition; however, the incidence is unknown in ponies as this condition has not been reported in these breeds. The present report describes the diagnosis and management of spermiostasis in a 16‐year‐old Shetland stallion presented for semen collection, evaluation, and cooling test. Semen collection resulted in 73 billion total sperm with necrozoospermia and 67% detached heads. Ten serial semen collections gradually improved sperm motility and morphology. There was no evidence of ampullary plugs in the semen filter throughout the collections. An additional semen collection was procured 48 h after collection 10 for a cooling test. Sodium caseinate cholesterol‐loaded cyclodextrin extender resulted in superior sperm motility compared to the native phosphocaseinate extender up to 48 h post‐cooling in two semen containers. Sixty days after the initial visit, the stallion returned for a semen freezing test. The ejaculate was normozoospermic, and the owner reported that the stallion had satisfactory fertility for live cover after discharge from the hospital. The thermal longevity test of the frozen‐thawed resulted in excellent motility after 120 min of storage at 37°C. In conclusion, herein, we described, apparently for the first time, the occurrence of spermiostasis in a pony stallion. We foresee that other practitioners managing similar clinical cases could have comparable outcomes.
Standing surgical procedure for treatment of otitis media in a horse
Authors: Edgington Lily , Jocelyn Natasha , Davidson Sarah , Looijen Maty G. P. , Rubio‐Martínez Luis M.
Published: March 2023

A 13‐year‐old Appaloosa gelding was referred for evaluation of a left‐sided facial nerve paralysis. On clinical examination, the gelding exhibited muzzle deviation to the right, dropped left ear and blepharospasm of the left eye. A Schirmer tear test revealed 66% reduction in tear production in the left eye and a focal corneal ulcer (0.7 cm by 0.7 cm) was present ventrally in the left eye. Endoscopic examination of the upper airways and guttural pouches showed no abnormalities. Computed tomographic examination revealed an accumulation of soft‐tissue attenuating material within the tympanic bulla, consistent with otitis media. Medical management with 30 mg/kg trimethoprim sulfadiazine and 2.2 mg/kg phenylbutazone orally twice a day for 6 weeks was unsuccessful. The non‐perforated tympanic bulla was fenestrated from the left guttural pouch using diode LASER transendoscopically, under standing sedation, to allow drainage of the inner ear. Mucopurulent fluid drained from the tympanic bulla cavity. Endoscopic examination 6 months post‐surgery showed that the fenestrated site had healed over, with no evidence of inflammation at the site. A very mild muzzle deviation to the right was still present 6 months' post surgery but the horse was able to prehend and masticate without difficulty. The procedure was successful, and the clinical signs improved significantly post‐surgery.
Skunk‐associated rabies case in equine from Northern Mexico
Authors: Navarro‐López Roberto , Pérez‐de la Rosa Juan Diego , Solís‐Hernández Mario , Cañez‐de la Fuente Jorge Francisco , Villarreal‐Silva Marcela , Gómez‐Romero Ninnet
Published: March 2023

A case of equine skunk‐associated rabies was diagnosed in Northern Mexico. A 4‐year‐old mare with clinical signs of ataxia, self‐mutilation, circling, prostration, anorexia, and death 3 days after the onset of the symptoms was reported. History and clinical signs were consistent with a neurological disease. Brain tissue was collected and examined to confirm the diagnosis. The tissue sample was positive for rabies using immunofluorescence assay; whole genome sequencing and viral isolation in suckling mice were performed. Genetic characterisation based on a fragment of the nucleoprotein sequence revealed that a skunk‐associated rabies virus caused infection in the mare. This report is considered important due to it not being related to bat rabies; therefore, identifying the rabies source species has significant implications for public health as well as veterinary consequences. There is a need for greater awareness regarding zoonotic risks, diagnostic assays, prophylactic measures and the establishment of specific procedures to limit horse attacks from rabid wildlife.
A modified lightweight DNA‐based cryptography method for internet of things devices
Authors: AL‐Shargabi Bassam , Dar Assi Ahmad
Published: March 2023

The data generated by the applications of the internet of things (IoT) that transmit sensitive and secret information via wireless sensor networks (WSN) must be safeguarded as major components of any cyber physical system (CPS). Interconnected devices, such as IoT devices or objects are viewed as constrained because they lack adequate computational resources. These resources consist of energy, memory, and processing power, however, when attempting to encrypt transferred data using traditional encryption methods, these obstacles offered by IoT devices are viewed as a challenge because their limited resources may dramatically limit the potential and performance of CPS. Therefore, we introduced the modified DNA‐based lightweight encryption method, which relies on the DNA sequence, as a way to get around the fact that IoT devices have insufficient computing processing and storage resources. The randomized structure of the DNA sequence was leveraged in the modified lightweight encryption method to obtain an encryption secret key. The secret key is employed to encrypt and decrypt data generated by IoT devices in a manner that is consistent with the computing capabilities of IoT devices during encryption operations involving substitution, transposition, and circular shifting to increase the confusion level of encrypted data. We also studied the effects of changing the size of the data block along with the key space of the modified DNA‐based lightweight encryption method. Performance and experimental results in terms of key lengths, the amount of time it takes to encrypt, the degree of distortion, and the security level of the modified DNA‐based lightweight encryption method surpass those of currently employed encryption algorithms.
Credit ETFs in Mutual Funds and Corporate Bond Liquidity
Authors: Meli Jeffrey , Todorova Zornitsa
Published: March 2023

We show that high yield (HY) mutual funds own and trade ETFs to manage liquidity needs driven by fund flows, whereas investment grade (IG) funds do not. The use of ETFs by HY mutual funds to manage liquidity shifts some trading away from bonds and into ETFs, which reduces the liquidity of the underlying bonds. This substitution effect outweighs the better‐understood inclusion effect, whereby bond liquidity benefits from increased ETF ownership, such that the net effect of ETFs is to reduce HY liquidity. In IG, the substitution effect is not significant and ETFs result in increased bond liquidity.
Impacts of Subsurface Dam Construction on Downstream Groundwater Levels and Salinity in Coastal Aquifers
Authors: Liu Jiaqi , Brunner Philip , Tokunaga Tomochika
Published: March 2023

Subsurface dam is a promising engineering technology for groundwater resources development. However, the possible impacts of these dams on the groundwater environment have been a major concern. Here, we used a three‐dimensional (3D), variable‐density, unsaturated‐saturated groundwater flow model to explore how a groundwater‐storage‐type subsurface dam, built in the freshwater domain of an unconfined coastal aquifer, affected groundwater levels and salinity in the downstream area. Model results suggested that, after subsurface dam construction, groundwater levels in the downstream area showed intensified fluctuations in terms of phase advances, greater amplitudes, and higher frequencies following heavy rainfall events. Numerical simulations with variable subsurface dam scenarios indicated that the groundwater level fluctuations were further intensified with a higher crest elevation or a shorter distance from the coast. Moreover, during the recharging period of the subsurface reservoir, sea water in the downstream area intruded landward from its initial location, which can at least temporarily threaten water quality near the coast. A higher dam crest elevation prolonged the duration of sea water intrusion, while a dam positioned closer to the coast induced sea water intrusion with a greater horizontal extent. General implications are discussed with respect to improving assessment methodologies and engineering designs of subsurface dams.
Gastric microbiota in gastric cancer and precancerous stages: Mechanisms of carcinogenesis and clinical value
Authors: Liao Oulan , Ye Guanshui , Du Qin , Ye Jun
Published: March 2023

Gastric cancer (GC) is a globally important disease. The discovery of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) demonstrated that the human stomach is not a sterile environment, and recent advances in molecular biology have led to the detection of large populations of microorganisms in the stomach. A growing number of studies have elucidated differences in the microbiota of patients at various stages of GC development. Evidence from insulin‐gastrin transgenic (INS‐GAS) and human gastric microbiota‐transplanted mouse models have further demonstrated the potential causality of microbiota in the development of GC. To date, H. pylori is still thought to be the strongest risk factor for GC. H. pylori interacts with non‐H. pylori commensals and affects the composition of the gastric microbiota. This review provides an overview of the relationship between the gastric microbiota and GC, including the mechanisms of microbe‐associated carcinogenesis, the clinical value of the microbiota as a GC biomarker, and the potential of modulating the microbiota for GC prevention or therapy.