bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiology of Epstein-Barr Virus Chronic High Viral Load in Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Rampersad Christie , Wiebe Chris , Balshaw Robert , Bullard Jared , Cortes Villalobos Armelle Perez , Trachtenberg Aaron , Shaw James , Karpinski Martin , Goldberg Aviva , Birk Patricia , Pinsk Maury , Rush David N. , Nickerson Peter W. , Ho Julie
Published: February 2024

Background.

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) chronic high viral load (CHVL) may be defined by >16 000 copies/mL whole blood or >200 copies/105 peripheral blood mononuclear cells in >50% samples exceeding 6 mo. EBV CHVL has only been characterized in a few small pediatric studies, with heterogeneous results and unclear clinical significance.

Methods.

This single-center observational study evaluated adult and pediatric kidney transplant recipients transplanted between 2010 and 2021 on tacrolimus/mycophenolate-based/prednisone immunosuppression. The primary outcome was EBV CHVL prevalence. Secondary outcomes included recipient characteristics, DNAemia kinetics, and posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) in recipients with EBV CHVL versus low-grade DNAemia or no DNAemia.

Results.

Five hundred forty-one recipients had a mean follow-up of 4.6 y. Fourteen recipients (2.6%) developed EBV CHVL, 70 (12.9%) had low-grade EBV DNAemia, and 457 (84.5%) had no EBV DNAemia. EBV CHVL was more common in recipients who were Caucasian (P = 0.04), younger (P = 0.04), received induction immunosuppression (P = 0.02), and had high-risk donor–recipient EBV serologic mismatch (P < 0.0001). CHVL patients had a higher first viral load (P = 0.03), longer time to maximum viral load (P = 0.02), and did not achieve sustained DNAemia clearance versus low-grade DNAemia. Three EBV-positive PTLD cases occurred in recipients with a history of EBV DNAemia. PTLD was present in 7.1% (1/14) CHVL versus 2.9% (2/70) low-grade DNAemia patients (P = 0.002). EBV DNAemia developed in 32 EBV seronegative recipients (32/59; 54%); clearance was achieved in 70% (14/20) with low-grade DNAemia but no CHVL (0/12; P = 0.0001).

Conclusions.

CHVL was uncommon and appeared to occur after primary EBV infection. Future studies should explore other potentially modifiable risk factors for PTLD, including optimal management of EBV DNAemia.
Urinary Endotrophin and Long-term Outcomes in Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Alkaff Firas F. , Kremer Daan , Thaunat Olivier , Berger Stefan P. , van den Born Jacob , Genovese Federica , Karsdal Morten A. , Bakker Stephan J. L. , Rasmussen Daniel G. K. , Tepel Martin
Published: February 2024

Background.

Kidney fibrosis is a suggested cause of kidney failure and premature mortality. Because collagen type VI is closely linked to kidney fibrosis, we aimed to evaluate whether urinary endotrophin, a collagen type VI fragment, is associated with graft failure and mortality among kidney transplant recipients (KTR).

Methods.

In this prospective cohort study, KTR with a functioning graft ≥1-y posttransplantation were recruited; 24-h urinary endotrophin excretion was measured using an ELISA method. Multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed.

Results.

A total of 621 KTR (mean age 53 y old, 43% female) at a median of 5.2 y posttransplantation were included. Median 24-h urinary endotrophin excretion was 5.6 (3.1–13.6) µg/24h. During a median follow-up of 7.5 y, 87 KTR (14%) developed graft failure and 185 KTR (30%) died; 24-h urinary endotrophin excretion was associated with increased risk of graft failure (hazard ratio [95% confidence interva] per doubling = 1.24 [1.08-1.42]) and all-cause mortality (hazard ratio [95% confidence intervals] per doubling = 1.14 [1.03-1.25]) independent of potential confounders including plasma endotrophin concentration. Twenty-four-hour urinary protein excretion was a significant effect modifier for the association with mortality (Pinteraction = 0.002). Twenty-four-hour urinary endotrophin excretion was only significantly associated with mortality in KTR with low levels of proteinuria.

Conclusions.

Urinary endotrophin is independently associated with an increased risk of graft failure in all KTR and mortality only in KTR with low levels of proteinuria. Further studies with different KTR populations are needed to confirm these findings.
Examining the impact of website layout and dark triad approach on real estate purchase decisions in India: a young adult socialization mediated model
Authors: Pradeep Ishika , George Jossy P. , Davidson Benny Godwin J.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aims to determine website quality, young adult socialization and dark triad personality as the factors influencing the real estate purchase decision. In addition, this study also measures the mediating effects of young adult socialization on real estate purchase buying behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

Related literature, quantifiable variables with a five-point Likert scale, hypothesis testing and mediators are used to study the model. A systematic questionnaire that was divided into four sections was used. A total of 336 valid responses were collected and analyzed through a structural equation model.

Findings

The results suggest that dark triad personality and young adult socialization considerably affect real estate purchase decisions. The development proves website quality does not significantly impact real estate purchase behavior.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited to a few young consumers’ responses. Future studies could be more widespread globally and should include more variables and offline methods of purchasing behavior.

Originality/value

As per the review of existing literature, this research is the first, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, to determine the factors affecting the real estate purchase decision with factors like website quality, dark triad personalities and young adult socialization involving it.
CEOs scientific background and firm innovation: evidence from China
Authors: Ullah Irfan , Rahman Mohib Ur , Zeb Aurang
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aims to inspect the impact of Chief Executive Officers’ (CEOs) education in a “specific field,” such as CEOs with science and engineering backgrounds on firms’ innovation. Based on agency theory, this study also reports how an endogenous factor, i.e. CEOs’ compensation, and an exogenous factor such as intellectual property rights (IPR), moderate the CEOs with a scientific background (CEOSB)-innovation relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a sample of Chinese nonfinancial firms listed on the Shanghai and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges from 2008 to 2018 by applying the ordinary least squares regression method. To deal with the endogeneity issues, this study also performs a series of additional tests.

Findings

The results indicate that the effects of CEOSB on the firm innovation activities are positive and significant. Further, this study finds that CEOs’ compensation and IPR protection positively and significantly moderate the CEOSB-innovation relationship. These outcomes are robust to a series of additional tests.

Research limitations/implications

The results of this study have valuable implications for various stakeholders interested in stimulating innovation. To sum up, the results of this study inculcate these stakeholders that the enhancement of firm innovation is contingent on the appropriate selection of CEOs, effective compensation packages and IPR regulations.

Originality/value

Distinct from the existent studies, the focus of the study is on the perspectives of CEOs’ scientific backgrounds. Further, based on agency theory, this study also reports how CEOs’ compensation and IPR protection moderate the CEOSB-innovation relationship, which has not been tested earlier to our knowledge, especially in the context of an emerging economy like China.
Perceived effects of teleworking on adaptive performance: a moderated mediation model of leadership effectiveness and negative affect
Authors: Taşkan Burcu , Junça-Silva Ana , Caetano António
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Drawing on the conservation of resources theory, this study aims to explore how individuals’ perceptions of telework effects associate with their adaptive performance by shaping their negative emotional experiences, with perceived leadership effectiveness acting as a critical moderator in this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional design was used, with data collected from a final sample of 209 teleworkers via an online survey.

Findings

The results demonstrated a significant indirect effect of the perceived effects of teleworking on adaptive performance through negative affect. Furthermore, leadership effectiveness moderated the indirect effect, in a way that the indirect effect was only significant for those who had ineffective leaders and moderate effective leaders; therefore, the indirect effect was strengthened for those who had less effective leaders (versus effective leaders).

Originality/value

This study examines the positive link between teleworking perceptions and adaptive performance through the reduction of negative affect, in line with the conservation of resources theory. Moreover, a reduction in negative emotions among employees during telework is associated with enhanced performance. Notably, the study reveals that leadership effectiveness moderates this connection as playing a crucial role in moderating these effects, particularly when leaders are perceived as less effective, offering insights for organizations considering telework strategies.
Designing secure hybrid living-working interior spaces in post-pandemic period: a review
Authors: de Yong Sherly , Rachmawati Murni , Defiana Ima
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to identify aspects of how work-life interaction has changed in the post-pandemic situations and propose strategies of the security concept for living-working patterns in the post-pandemic interior as future disease prevention.

Design/methodology/approach

We conducted a systematic literature search and review to select previous research systematically and relate concepts by coding the data and synthesising the data critically. The systematic literature search and review considered 90 papers (35 were studied).

Findings

The findings identify three strategies: hybrid activity patterns, new layout for hybrid and changing behaviour and culture. Each strategy demonstrates the connection between the hybrid living-working interior spaces in the post-pandemic period and security-pandemic variables. The results on security design factors focused on interior control, detection and deterrence; connection to nature creates a safer environment to prevent further variables; and hybrid activity requires more elements to govern users' behaviour and culture.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations of this study are as follows: excluded papers that are not written in English/Bahasa or do not have gold/green open access; some aspects were not discussed (such as social distancing); the articles included in this review are up to April 2023 (and there is the possibility of recent papers). Future studies can be developed to update building certification for post-pandemic interiors or research with psychological, social equity or family vitality issues.

Originality/value

The study offers strategies and the holistic relationship between the post-pandemic concept and security-pandemic design variables within the built environment, especially in the users' culture and behaviour context.
Market orientation dynamic capability – a catalyst for purchasers’ core competencies to achieve innovative performance during supplier collaboration
Authors: Oberoi Poonam , Naoui-Outini Fatiha
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate purchasing manager’s core competencies during supplier collaboration and explain the mechanism through which these competencies can affect purchasing firm’s innovative performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted 22 semidirective interviews with managers in diverse functions such as purchasing, supply-chain management and product development across industries and across nations (mostly India and France), which allow to formulate the propositions.

Findings

Through open coding, the authors identify three path-dependent, causally ambiguous and socially complex core competencies of purchasing managers: relational and emotional, communicational and creative and cognitive competencies; and through axial coding, the authors explain how these intangible core competencies support implementation of market orientation. To provide supporting arguments for the propositions, the authors use the resource-based view of the firm and dynamic capability theory.

Research limitations/implications

The first theoretical contribution of this study is focusing on the impact of competency–capability dyad in terms of performance. The second theoretical contribution of this study is to identify market orientation as a flexible and dynamic managerial capability.

Practical implications

The first managerial contribution is that the authors have identified and described three sets of a purchasing manager’s core competencies during supplier collaboration that affect the firm’s performance: relational and emotional, communicational and creative and cognitive competencies. The second managerial contribution relates to the mechanism through which purchasing managers’ core competencies during supplier collaboration affect firms’ outcomes.

Originality/value

The value of the results is in the explanation of the mechanism, i.e. market orientation dynamic capability, through which the competencies of purchasing managers can affect purchasing firm’s innovative performance.
Integrating UN Sustainable Development Goals into family business practices: a perspective article
Authors: Hanna Bavly , Xu Guandong , Wang Xianzhi , Hossain Jahangir
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This paper explores the potential for family businesses (FBs) to play a pivotal role in advancing the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It seeks to elucidate how FBs' inherent strengths and values can be harnessed to integrate sustainable practices within their operational paradigms.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors employed a literature review to synthesize all the information and identify how FBs' desire to pass on a healthy company to future generations encourages sustainable practices.

Findings

FBs have the potential to contribute significantly to not only their own sustainability but also the broader well-being of society by aligning with the SDGs.

Originality/value

This paper provides practical insights for stakeholders, policymakers and business leaders seeking to foster a more inclusive and environmentally responsible economic landscape.
Business model innovation decisions: the role of group biases and risk willingness
Authors: Mueller-Saegebrecht Sarah
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Managers must make numerous strategic decisions in order to initiate and implement a business model innovation (BMI). This paper examines how managers perceive the management team interacts when making BMI decisions. The paper also investigates how group biases and board members’ risk willingness affect this process.

Design/methodology/approach

Empirical data were collected through 26 in-depth interviews with German managing directors from 13 companies in four industries (mobility, manufacturing, healthcare and energy) to explore three research questions: (1) What group effects are prevalent in BMI group decision-making? (2) What are the key characteristics of BMI group decisions? And (3) what are the potential relationships between BMI group decision-making and managers' risk willingness? A thematic analysis based on Gioia's guidelines was conducted to identify themes in the comprehensive dataset.

Findings

First, the results show four typical group biases in BMI group decisions: Groupthink, social influence, hidden profile and group polarization. Findings show that the hidden profile paradigm and groupthink theory are essential in the context of BMI decisions. Second, we developed a BMI decision matrix, including the following key characteristics of BMI group decision-making managerial cohesion, conflict readiness and information- and emotion-based decision behavior. Third, in contrast to previous literature, we found that individual risk aversion can improve the quality of BMI decisions.

Practical implications

This paper provides managers with an opportunity to become aware of group biases that may impede their strategic BMI decisions. Specifically, it points out that managers should consider the key cognitive constraints due to their interactions when making BMI decisions. This work also highlights the importance of risk-averse decision-makers on boards.

Originality/value

This qualitative study contributes to the literature on decision-making by revealing key cognitive group biases in strategic decision-making. This study also enriches the behavioral science research stream of the BMI literature by attributing a critical influence on the quality of BMI decisions to managers' group interactions. In addition, this article provides new perspectives on managers' risk aversion in strategic decision-making.
Unpacking LGBT+ hate crimes discourse in Italy: between symbolic recognition and claims for sexual citizenship
Authors: Peroni Caterina , Demurtas Pietro
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to provide a critical account of the hate crime (HC) paradigm by exploring its historical legal definition and the limitations in addressing the multiple and structural discriminations faced by minority groups. Specifically, the article focuses on the case of Italy, where in recent years a fierce debate over a proposed law on HC against LGBT+ and disabled people ended in its rejection due to neoconservative and Catholic opposition.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on critical socio-criminological literature on HC, the paper analyses the Italian debates and socio-legal context over the past two decades regarding discrimination against LGBT+ groups and its (lack of) criminalization. It also provides a secondary analysis of recent data on violence and discrimination against LGBT+ people, collected by the Fundamental Rights Agency (FRA).

Findings

The analysis of the debate and the data collected shows that the criminal definition of HC is insufficient to capture the wider range of social and cultural violence and discrimination against LGBT+ people. Indeed, data analysis shows the effect of the low level of recognition of rights on the propensity of people to denounce and of social practitioners to recognize, discrimination and violence against LGBT+ people. It is therefore argued that the discussion on HC should move beyond the criminalization of individual violence to be entrenched in a broader reflection over the lack of recognition of sexual citizenship rights which perpetuates the vulnerability of LGBT+ people.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the international socio-criminological debate on HC. It argues for a comprehensive framework that recognizes the structural nature of discrimination and violence against vulnerable groups by framing discrimination and violence against LGBT+ people as a citizenship right rather than a criminal justice issue.
Social entrepreneurial opportunity recognition among higher education students: scale development and validation
Authors: Viswanath Parvathy , Annapally Sadananda Reddy , Kumar Aneesh
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aims to develop and validate a multidimensional scale to measure the motivating factors that lead to opportunity recognition in social entrepreneurship among higher education institute (HEI) students.

Design/methodology/approach

The scale was developed through two phases; in phase 1, semi-structured interviews with social entrepreneurs and aspiring students were conducted to explore themes for item generation. Phase 2 included developing and validating the scale using exploratory (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The sample included HEI students (n= 300 for EFA,n= 300 for CFA) with either academic background or volunteering experiences in social entrepreneurship.

Findings

A 24-item scale is developed in the study, with six factors measuring the motivating factors influencing opportunity recognition in social entrepreneurship: life experiences, social awareness, social inclination, community development, institutional voids and natural option for a meaningful career.

Research limitations/implications

The scale facilitates the development of theories and models in social entrepreneurship. The scale also enables policymakers and social entrepreneurship educators to understand the motivating factors that lead to opportunity recognition among students. It would help them to provide target-specific support to students.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first attempt to develop a scale that measures opportunity recognition in social entrepreneurship based on specific motivating factors. The study used the model by Yitshaki and Kropp (2016) as the conceptual framework. This study is the first attempt to triangulate the model’s findings using a quantitative methodology and through the development of a measurement scale. Besides, the scale adds value to social entrepreneurship research, which lacks empirical research on HEI students.
Revisiting “What is Strategy?” and Why it Matters
Authors: Cory Kenneth
Published: February 2024

Purpose

There are few concepts in the modern business lexicon where people feel as strongly confident in their understanding of its meaning – while there is simultaneously such profound disagreement in how people actually define the term – than the concept of “strategy.” After decades of research and publications trying to correct this situation, the problem remains. It is difficult to advance the field, teach the field, or even effectively put it into practice if you cannot define what “it” is in a clear, concise, and meaningful way. This paper offers updated definitions of key strategic management concepts.

Design/methodology/approach

A large academic and practitioner literature review was added to the author’s personal experience as a Fortune 500 chief strategy officer and university professor to identify five separate concepts at the heart of current colloquial uses of the term “strategy.” These concepts were then clarified and defined with implications summarized.

Findings

The generic term “strategy” is frequently used in place of multiple other very distinct concepts. This problem of concept ambiguity can be greatly reduced by understanding and emphasizing the definitions and usage of five other, already existing, business terms – “Strategic Management,” “Strategic Planning Process,” “Strategic Plan,” “Realized Strategy,” and “Business Model.”

Originality/value

This paper identifies the negative effects of the misuse of the term strategy and offers clear, concise remedies. Resolving the definition problems is a necessary precursor to the advancement, education, and practice of the field.
Choreographing a good death: Carers’ experiences and practices of enacting assisted dying
Authors: Lewis Sophie , La Brooy Camille , Kerridge Ian , Holmes Alex , Olver Ian , Hudson Peter , Dooley Michael , Komesaroff Paul
Published: February 2024

The proliferation of assisted dying legislative reforms globally is a significant change in the social and medico‐legal landscape of end‐of‐life care. Understanding the impacts of these legislative reforms on family members who care for a dying person is vital, yet under‐theorised in research. In this article, drawing on semi‐structured interviews with 42 carers for a person who has sought assisted dying in Australia, and extending ideas of ontological choreography we explore the new and complex choreographies enacted by carers in their endeavour to arrange a ‘good death’ for the dying person. We find that desires to fulfil the dying person’s wishes are often accompanied by normative pressures, affective tensions and complexities in bereavement. Enacting assisted dying requires carers to perform a repertoire of highly‐staged practices. Yet, institutional obstacles and normative cultural scripts of dying can constrain carer assisted dying practices. Understanding the nuances of carers’ experiences and how they navigate this new end‐of‐life landscape, we argue, provides critical insights about how assisted dying legislation is producing new cultural touchpoints for caring at the end of life. Moreover, we show how emerging cultural scripts of assisted dying are impacting in the lives of these carers.
TRANSFORMING SOCIAL HOUSING INTO AN ASSET CLASS: REITs and the Financialization of Supported Housing in England
Authors: Goulding Richard
Published: February 2024

This article explores the governance of risk in financialization through the entry of Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) and other investment funds into specialized supported housing in England. Supported housing is a form of care accommodation intended to enable vulnerable groups such as people with learning disabilities to live more independently. Since 2014, investors have targeted the sector, developing a leaseback model that has encountered controversy due to unsustainable rents and the near bankruptcy of at least one housing association. The article unpacks these dynamics by asking how financialization has generated risk through the imposition of a ‘care fix’ in the sector, drawing on qualitative data including interviews, financial and media reports, and court and regulatory documents. In answering this question, it argues that the contradiction between housing's role as a private commodity and as a collective means of social reproduction generates tensions that suggest potential limits to financialization.
Utility of electroencephalography in toxin‐induced seizures
Authors: Sidlak Alexander M. , Dibble Brent , Schultz Brian
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Toxin‐induced seizures differ from seizures occurring in epilepsy and have a high rate of complications. Electroencephalography (EEG) is routinely obtained when there is concern for nonconvulsive status epilepticus (NCSE). The purpose of this study was to characterize the typical findings after toxin‐induced seizures, assess the rate of epileptiform discharges and NCSE, and identify any changes in management resulting from EEG.

Methods

Patients older than 16 years who had an EEG during hospitalization for drug‐induced seizure or seizure‐like activity were included. We reviewed 10 years of data (2013–2022) across our hospital system (four community hospitals and one academic center). Patients with a history of seizures and those with cardiac arrest prior to EEG were excluded. The primary outcome was incidence of epileptiform discharges on EEG. The secondary outcome was number of antiseizure medications (ASM) added after EEG.

Results

A total of 256 encounters were screened with 83 patient encounters included. A total of 53% (44/83) of EEGs showed some degree of generalized slowing. A total of 2.4% (2/83) of cases had epileptiform activity on EEG. No cases of nonconvulsive status were identified. No ASM was started in the two cases where epileptiform discharges were identified.

Conclusions

During usual care of toxin‐induced seizures, epileptiform discharges are uncommon.
Acute care utilization for ambulatory care–sensitive conditions among publicly insured children
Authors: Shapiro Daniel J. , Hall Matt , Ramgopal Sriram , Alpern Elizabeth R. , Chaudhari Pradip P. , Eltorki Mohamed , Badaki‐Makun Oluwakemi , Bergmann Kelly R. , Macy Michelle L. , Foster Carolyn C. , Neuman Mark I.
Published: February 2024

Background

Although characteristics of preventable hospitalizations for ambulatory care–sensitive conditions (ACSCs) have been described, less is known about patterns of emergency and other acute care utilization for ACSCs among children who are not hospitalized. We sought to describe patterns of utilization for ACSCs according to the initial site of care and to determine characteristics associated with seeking initial care in an acute care setting rather than in an office. A better understanding of the sequence of health care utilization for ACSCs may inform efforts to shift care for these common conditions to the medical home.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of pediatric encounters for ACSCs between 2017 and 2019 using data from the IBM Watson MarketScan Medicaid database. The database includes insurance claims for Medicaid‐insured children in 10 anonymized states. We assessed the initial sites of care for ACSC encounters, which were defined as either acute care settings (emergency or urgent care) or office‐based settings. We used generalized estimating equations clustered on patient to identify associations between encounter characteristics and the initial site of care.

Results

Among 7,128,515 encounters for ACSCs, acute care settings were the initial site of care in 27.9%. Diagnoses with the greatest proportion of episodes presenting to acute care settings were urinary tract infection (52.0% of episodes) and pneumonia (44.6%). Encounters on the weekend (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 6.30, 95% confidence interval [CI] 6.27–6.34 compared with weekday) and among children with capitated insurance (aOR 1.55, 95% CI 1.54–1.56 compared with fee for service) were associated with increased odds of seeking care first in an acute care setting.

Conclusions

Acute care settings are the initial sites of care for more than one in four encounters for ACSCs among publicly insured children. Expanded access to primary care on weekends may shift care for ACSCs to the medical home.
Agribusiness rent extraction
Authors: Ioris Antonio A. R.
Published: February 2024

The article discusses the political‐economy of agribusiness, making use of the category of rent that is considered as a proportion of exchange value diverted from production for the payment to the landowners and, crucially, its class‐based allies. Rent is therefore more than just the extraction of value from the use of land, but there is a wider, deeply politicised capture of value from the network of relations that maintain land in production. Agribusiness rent primarily derives from the appropriation of land through the formation of a powerful network involving ‘state‐landowners‐private agroindustrial sector’, and this network provides the necessary conditions for the extraction of rent and the accumulation of capital.
Early suppression policies protected pregnant women from COVID‐19 in 2020: A population‐based surveillance from the Nordic countries
Authors: Varpula Reetta , Äyräs Outi , Aabakke Anna J. M. , Klungsøyr Kari , Svanvik Teresia , Kanerva Julia , Jonasdottir Eva , Mentzoni Camilla Tjønneland , Thurn Lars , Jones Elin , Fredriksson Lisa , Pettersson Karin , Nyfløt Lill Trine , Vangen Siri , Røe Kjerstine , Júlíusson Pétur B. , Källén Karin , Gissler Mika , Pyykönen Aura , Jakobsson Maija , Krebs Lone , Engjom Hilde Marie
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The Coronavirus 2019 Disease (COVID‐19) pandemic reached the Nordic countries in March 2020. Public health interventions to limit viral transmission varied across different countries both in timing and in magnitude. Interventions indicated by an Oxford Stringency Index ≥50 were implemented early (March 13–17, 2020) in Denmark, Finland, Norway and Iceland, and on March 26, 2020 in Sweden. The aim of the current study was to assess the incidence of COVID‐19‐related admissions of pregnant women in the Nordic countries in relation to the different national public health strategies during the first year of the pandemic.

Material and methods

This is a meta‐analysis of population‐based cohort studies in the five Nordic countries with national or regional surveillance in the Nordic Obstetric Surveillance System (NOSS) collaboration: national data from Denmark, Finland, Iceland and Norway, and regional data covering 31% of births in Sweden. The source population consisted of women giving birth in the included areas March 1–December 31, 2020. Pregnant women with a positive SARS‐CoV‐2 PCR test ≤14 days before hospital admission were included, and admissions were stratified as either COVID‐19‐related or non‐COVID (other obstetric healthcare). Information about public health policies was retrieved retrospectively.

Results

In total, 392 382 maternities were considered. Of these, 600 women were diagnosed with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and 137 (22.8%) were admitted for COVID‐19 symptoms. The pooled incidence of COVID‐19 admissions per 1000 maternities was 0.5 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.2 to 1.2, I2 = 77.6, tau2 = 0.68, P = 0.0), ranging from no admissions in Iceland to 1.9 admissions in the Swedish regions. Interventions to restrict viral transmission were less stringent in Sweden than in the other Nordic countries.

Conclusions

There was a clear variation in pregnant women's risk of COVID‐19 admission across countries with similar healthcare systems but different public health interventions to limit viral transmission. The meta‐analysis indicates that early suppression policies protected pregnant women from severe COVID‐19 disease prior to the availability of individual protection with vaccines.
Procedure‐specific simulation for vaginal surgery training: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Geoffrion Roxana , Koenig Nicole A. , Cundiff Geoffrey W. , Flood Catherine , Hyakutake Momoe T. , Schulz Jane , Brennand Erin A. , Lee Terry , Singer Joel , Todd Nicole J.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Vaginal surgery has a superior outcome profile compared with other surgical routes, yet skills are declining because of low case volumes. Graduating residents' confidence and preparedness for vaginal surgery has plummeted in the past decade. The objective of the present study was to investigate whether procedure‐specific simulation skills, vs usual training, result in improved operative competence.

Material and methods

We completed a randomized controlled trial of didactic and procedural training via low fidelity vaginal surgery models for anterior repair, posterior repair (PR), vaginal hysterectomy (VH), recruiting novice gynecology residents at three academic centers. We evaluated performance via global rating scale (GRS) in the real operating room and for corresponding procedures by attending surgeon blinded to group. Prespecified secondary outcomes included procedural steps knowledge, overall performance, satisfaction, self‐confidence and intraoperative parameters. A priori sample size estimated 50 residents (20% absolute difference in GRS score, 25% SD, 80% power, alpha 0.05). Clinicaltrials.gov: Registration no. NCT05887570.

Results

We randomized 83 residents to intervention or control and 55 completed the trial (2011–23). Baseline characteristics were similar, except for more fourth‐year control residents. After adjustment of confounders (age, level, baseline knowledge), GRS scores showed significant differences overall (mean difference 8.2; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.2–16.1; p = 0.044) and for VH (mean difference 12.0; 95% CI: 1.8–22.3; p = 0.02). The intervention group had significantly higher procedural steps knowledge and self‐confidence for VH and/or PR (p < 0.05, adjusted analysis). Estimated blood loss, operative time and complications were similar between groups.

Conclusions

Compared to usual training, procedure‐specific didactic and low fidelity simulation modules for vaginal surgery resulted in significant improvements in operative performance and several other skill parameters.
T/myeloid mixed phenotype acute leukaemia harbouring TLX3::BCL11B with TLX3 activation
Authors: Botten Giovanni A. , Zhang Yuannyu , Fuda Franklin , Koduru Prasad , Weinberg Olga K. , Slone Tamra L. , Zheng Ruifang , Dickerson Kathryn E. , Gagan Jeffrey R. , Chen Weina
Published: February 2024

T/myeloid mixed phenotype acute leukaemia (MPAL) is a rare aggressive acute leukaemia with poorly understood pathogenesis. Herein, we report two cases of T/myeloid MPAL harbouring BCL11B‐associated structural variants that activate TLX3 (TLX3::BCL11B‐TLX3‐activation) by genome sequencing and transcriptomic analyses. Both patients were young males with extramedullary involvement. Cooperative gene alterations characteristic of T/myeloid MPAL and T‐lymphoblastic leukaemia (T‐ALL) were detected. Both patients achieved initial remission following lineage‐matched ALL‐based therapy with one patient requiring a lineage‐switched myeloid‐based therapy. Our study is the first to demonstrate the clinicopathological and genomic features of TLX3::BCL11B‐TLX3‐activated T/myeloid MPAL and provide insights into leukaemogenesis.
The developmental consequences of early exposure to climate change‐related risks
Authors: Cuartas Jorge , McCoy Dana C. , Torres Isabella , Burghardt Lindsey , Shonkoff Jack P. , Yoshikawa Hirokazu
Published: February 2024

The climate crisis encompasses a constellation of risks that threaten human livelihoods, well‐being, and survival globally. In this article, we present a new framework based on bioecological and dynamic systems perspectives, and on evidence for conceptualizing how the distinctive dual time frame of both acute (e.g., extreme weather events) and chronic (e.g., ecological degradation) climate change‐related risks experienced prenatally and early in life across multiple ecological contexts can threaten human development. We conclude with a call to developmental researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to invest more efforts in understanding and addressing the climate crisis and its developmental consequences to ensure a sustainable future for all.
State‐of‐the‐art therapies for fragile X syndrome
Authors: Protic Dragana , Hagerman Randi
Published: February 2024

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a neurodevelopmental disorder caused by a full mutation (> 200 CGG repeats) in the FMR1 gene. FXS is the leading cause of inherited intellectual disabilities and the most commonly known genetic cause of autism spectrum disorder. Children with FXS experience behavioral and sleep problems, anxiety, inattention, learning difficulties, and speech and language delays. There are no approved medications for FXS; however, there are several interventions and treatments aimed at managing the symptoms and improving the quality of life of individuals with FXS. A combination of non‐pharmacological therapies and pharmacotherapy is currently the most effective treatment for FXS. Currently, several targeted treatments, such as metformin, sertraline, and cannabidiol, can be used by clinicians to treat FXS. Gene therapy is rapidly developing and holds potential as a prospective treatment option. Soon its efficacy and safety in patients with FXS will be demonstrated.

What this paper adds

Targeted treatment of fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the best current therapeutic approach.

Gene therapy holds potential as a prospective treatment for FXS in the future.
Ableism's pervasive impact in healthcare: A time for action
Authors: Patten Kristie
Published: February 2024

This commentary is on the original article by Ames et al. on pages 1226–1233 of this issue.
First report of Exobasidium miyabei causing Exobasidium leaf blisters on Rhododendron mucronulatum in Korea
Authors: Sung Han‐Jung , Park Ji‐Hyun , Shin Hyeon‐Dong , Seo Sang Tae
Published: February 2024

Recently, a previously unseen Exobasidium leaf blister disease was observed on Rhododendron mucronulatum in its natural habitat in Korea. The fungus associated with the disease was identified as Exobasidium miyabei based on morphological characteristics and two‐locus sequence analyses. To our knowledge, this is the first report of E. miyabei in Korea and of its novel association with the host species, R. mucronulatum.
Species sensitivities to artificial light at night: A phylogenetically controlled multilevel meta‐analysis on melatonin suppression
Authors: Yang Yefeng , Liu Qiong , Pan Chenghao , Chen Jintian , Xu Binbo , Liu Kai , Pan Jinming , Lagisz Malgorzata , Nakagawa Shinichi
Published: February 2024

The rapid urbanization of our world has led to a surge in artificial lighting at night (ALAN), with profound effects on wildlife. Previous research on wildlife's melatonin, a crucial mechanistic indicator and mediator, has yielded inconclusive evidence due to a lack of comparative analysis. We compiled and analysed an evidence base including 127 experiments with 437 observations across 31 wild vertebrates using phylogenetically controlled multilevel meta‐analytic models. The evidence comes mainly from the effects of white light on melatonin suppression in birds and mammals. We show a 36% average decrease in melatonin secretion in response to ALAN across a diverse range of species. This effect was observed for central and peripheral melatonin, diurnal and nocturnal species, and captive and free‐living populations. We also reveal intensity‐, wavelength‐, and timing‐dependent patterns of ALAN effects. Exposure to ALAN led to a 23% rise in inter‐individual variability in melatonin suppression, with important implications for natural selection in wild vertebrates, as some individuals may display higher tolerance to ALAN. The cross‐species evidence has strong implications for conservation of wild populations that are subject to natural selection of ALAN. We recommend measures to mitigate harmful impacts of ALAN, such as using ‘smart’ lighting systems to tune the spectra to less harmful compositions.
Recent advances in the extraction, synthesis, biological activities, and stabilisation strategies for β‐carotene: a review
Authors: Zhao Tong , He Xinyu , Yan Xia , Xi Huijuan , Li Yiting , Yang Xingbin
Published: February 2024

β‐carotene is a natural carotenoid pigment that widely exists in various fruits and vegetables, possessing antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and other biological activities. This makes it highly suitable for the development of nutritional functional foods and cosmetics. However, its poor water solubility and physical and chemical instability hinder its actual bioavailability. Therefore, adopting a rational stabilisation strategy to improve the stability and bioavailability of β‐carotene is a feasible approach. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the properties, biological activities, extraction methods, and synthesis methods of β‐carotene. It also highlights the research progress and current applications of β‐carotene‐loaded systems with the aim to offer valuable references for developing stable systems and expanding its application scope.
Hypoglycaemia fear, treatment adherence, and the quality of life in patients with type 2 diabetes and its determinants
Authors: Yildirim Dilek , Çiriş Yildiz Cennet , Ergin Emine , Özbay İrem
Published: February 2024

Aim

This work aims to evaluate the relationship between the fear of hypoglycaemia, treatment adherence, and the quality of life in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its determinants.

Methods

This descriptive and cross‐sectional study sample recruited 1060 T2DM outpatients in a health centre between January and July 2022. The Hypoglycemia Fear Survey (HFS), Type 2 DM Treatment Patient Compliance Scale, and the 5‐Level EuroQol 5‐Dimension (EQ‐5D‐5L) were used for data collection.

Results

There was a positive correlation between age, duration of T2DM, and the scores obtained from the HFS and its subscales (p < 0.001). There was a positive, moderate correlation between the total HFS score and the TCS (p < 0.001). There was a negative correlation between the scores obtained from the HFS and the EQ‐5D‐5L (p < 0.001). The multiple regression analysis showed that the quality of life scores of the patients were significantly predicted by hypoglycaemia fear, duration of T2DM diagnosis, and age. (F = 91.691, p < 0.001). Hypoglycaemia fear, duration of T2DM diagnosis, and age explained 38.1% of the quality of life of patients.

Conclusion

We determined that the increase in hypoglycaemia fear resulted in a decrease in treatment adherence. Besides, hypoglycaemia fear increased with increasing age and duration of T2DM diagnosis.
Influence of maternal characteristics and infant feeding patterns on infant growth from birth till 18 months: The MISC study
Authors: Radwan Hadia , Naja Farah , Abbas Nada , Kharma Joelle Abi , Obaid Reyad Shaker , Al Ghazal Hessa , Abdelrahim Dana N. , Saqan Roba , Alameddine Mariam , Al Hilali Marwa , Hasan Hayder , Hashim Mona
Published: February 2024

Background

The growth and development of infants during the first 1000 days of life are crucial for their health.

Objectives

This study aims to assess the impact of maternal characteristics and infant feeding patterns on infant growth from birth to 18 months.

Methods

Data were derived from the 2‐year perspective Mother Infant Study Cohort (MISC) study which included six visits from the third trimester of pregnancy until 18 months postpartum. A convenient sample of 256 pregnant women aged 19–40 years was recruited from Sharjah, Dubai and Ajman in the United Arab Emirates.

Results

Amongst mothers' characteristics, Arab nationality, pre‐pregnancy overweight/obesity, higher gestational weight gain and lower physical activity were found to increase the likelihood of infants being overweight at 6, 12 and 18 months. Exclusive breastfeeding was positively correlated with reduced odds of the infant being overweight at 18 months (aOR = 0.31, 95% CI: 0.12–0.81). Breastfeeding for up to 6 months and the introduction of solid foods after 6 months was associated with reduced odds of the infant being overweight at 12 months old (aOR = 4, 95% CI: 1.1–14.6; aOR = 2.97, 95% CI: 1.09–8.08, respectively).

Conclusion

The findings spotlight the influence of maternal characteristics and infant feeding on infant growth. This asserts the need for evidence‐based programmes targeting mothers to promote optimal feeding practices and foster healthy child growth.
Comparative study on wound healing and infection between open and minimally invasive surgical methods in pediatric otolaryngology surgery
Authors: Wu Xionghui , Huang Weiqing , Zhao Sijun , Huang Min , Kuang Yuting , Liu Guangliang
Published: February 2024

Pediatric otolaryngology surgeries are crucial interventions requiring careful consideration of surgical methods to optimize outcomes. The choice between open and minimally invasive surgical approaches in this context warrants thorough investigation. While both methods aim to address ear, nose, and throat conditions in children, a comparative study assessing their impact on crucial factors such as intraoperative parameters, wound healing, complications, and postoperative pain is essential. This study aims to compare the effects of open and minimally invasive surgical methods on wound healing and infection in pediatric otolaryngology surgery, and provide a scientific basis for the selection of surgical methods. Two groups of patients were selected, with 90 people in each group. One group received open surgery and the other received minimally invasive surgery. Recording the intraoperative time, anesthesia time, and intraoperative blood loss; the number of days required for wound healing; the occurrence of wound‐related complications; the comparison of pain on postoperative Days 1, 3, and 7; and the factors influencing postoperative wound healing were analyzed. In the minimally invasive surgery group, the intraoperative time was shorter, the anesthesia time was relatively reduced, and the amount of bleeding was significantly reduced. Wounds also take fewer days to heal and have lower rates of wound‐related complications. When comparing the pain on 1, 3, and 7 days after surgery, the minimally invasive surgery group had relatively mild pain. Analysis of postoperative wound healing factors showed that minimally invasive surgical methods have a positive impact on healing. In pediatric otolaryngology surgery, minimally invasive surgery performs better than open surgery in terms of intraoperative operation time, anesthesia time, blood loss, wound healing time, complication rate, and postoperative pain. Therefore, minimally invasive surgery may be a safer and more effective surgical method.