bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does the crime rate respond symmetrically or asymmetrically to changes in governance quality and macroeconomic variables? The application of linear and non-linear ARDL
Authors: Saqib Abdul , Yasmin Fouzia , Hussain Ihtisham
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Socioeconomic development needs quality governance to provide and protect property rights and other economic means. In this regard, the current study examines the symmetric and asymmetric effect of composite governance index, unemployment rate (UR) and consumer price index on the crime rate (CR) in Pakistan.

Design/methodology/approach

The current study uses time series data (1996–2020) on CR, composite governance index, UR and consumer price index. In this study, the authors first constructed a composite governance index from six governance indicators using the principal component analysis (PCA) method. After that, the short-run and long-run symmetric and asymmetric effects were estimated through linear and non-linear autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) models, respectively.

Findings

The authors found short-run and long-run symmetric and asymmetric effects of governance, unemployment and consumer prices (CPI) on the CR in Pakistan. For asymmetric effects, the findings show that high-quality governance diminishes and poor governance accelerates committed crimes in Pakistan. Interestingly, the asymmetric unemployment effect suggests that criminal behavior diminishes when people find job opportunities and do not adopt criminal behavior even if people lose employment. In other words, if unemployment decreases CR will fall, and when unemployment increases, the CR may not increase. Lastly, rising product prices lead to criminal behavior, while falling prices do not help to diminish the CR in Pakistan.

Originality/value

The study provides the first empirical evidence of symmetric and asymmetric responses of CR toward composite governance index, UR and consumer price index.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-09-2022-0625
From “Switzerland” to “Venezuela” of the Middle East: who is harmed the most by inflation in Lebanon?
Authors: Khalil Sandra , Dagher Diana
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The paper explores the inflationary consequences of the Lebanese economic and financial crises on Lebanese society. The study investigates the distribution of inflationary harm across various demographic characteristics, including age, marital status, educational level, employment type, region of residence, income range and type. It also identifies the different coping mechanisms adopted by the Lebanese people to survive during the inflationary period.

Design/methodology/approach

The study surveys 168 Lebanese citizens to determine which groups of people are most affected by inflation, its impact on their quality of life and the different coping mechanisms the citizens employ to endure the period of growing prices.

Findings

The results show that some groups of Lebanese citizens are more influenced than others by rising prices. The categories of people who suffer the most from inflation are the elderly, the widowed, those characterized by low educational and low-income levels, the unemployed, the retired and public sector employees, as well as homemakers.

Originality/value

This study provides policymakers with substantial information regarding the economic and social well-being of Lebanese citizens by highlighting the categories of people in need for special financial and social support. The findings can guide targeted policy interventions to support vulnerable populations. The study can also inform future research on the impact of the crisis and the effectiveness of policies.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-11-2022-0736
A “toxic culture”: the experiences of underrepresented ticket sales employees across professional sport
Authors: Sattler Liz , Shreffler Megan , Popp Nels , Pierce David
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this exploratory study was to examine the workplace experiences of current and former underrepresented ticket sales employees.

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilized survey methodology to answer the research questions. Purposive sampling was used to identify potential respondents: individuals who were either currently employed as sport ticket sales employees or had been previously. The researchers examined online media guides from North American major league sports teams and identified ticket sales representatives who were compiled into a database and then cross-referenced through social media platform LinkedIn. Individuals were located via LinkedIn profiles and sent an anonymous, electronic survey which included a combination of Likert scale and open-ended questions regarding respondent experiences working in ticket sales departments.

Findings

Survey responses from 511 ticket salespeople revealed negative experiences related to management and career advancement opportunities, as well as significant differences in negative experiences for underrepresented populations regarding mentorship and culture.

Originality/value

Sport sales managers desire to expand employee diversity (Wells et al., 2019) and improve overall retention rates, but if a clear understanding of organizational vision toward diversification is not established within sports teams, managers are less likely to embrace diversity initiatives. Thus, it is imperative to understand the lived experiences of underrepresented ticket salespeople in order to improve workplace culture and effectiveness.
“Everyone freaks out when the leaks are made”: data leaks, investigative journalism and intelligence practice
Authors: Scott Benjamin
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the history of data leaks and investigative journalism, the techniques and technology that enable them and their influence in Australia and abroad. It explores the ethical and professional considerations of investigative journalists, how they approach privacy and information-sharing and how this differs from intelligence practice in government and industry. The paper assesses the strengths and limitations of Collaborative Investigative Reporting based on Information Leaks (CIRIL) as a kind of public-facing intelligence practice.

Design/methodology/approach

This study draws on academic literature, source material from investigations by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists and the Organised Crime and Corruption Reporting Project, and a survey of financial crime compliance professionals conducted in 2022.

Findings

The paper identifies three key causal factors that have enabled the rise of CIRIL even as traditional journalism has declined: the digital storage of information; increasing public interest in offshore finance and tax evasion; and “virtual newsrooms” enabled by internet communications. It concludes that the primary strength of CIRIL is its creation of complex global narratives to inform the public about corruption and tax evasion, while its key weakness is that the scale and breadth of the data released makes it difficult to focus on likely criminal activity. Results of a survey of industry and government professionals indicate that CIRIL is generally more effective as public information than as an investigative resource, owing to the volume, age and quality of information released. However, the trends enabling CIRIL are likely to continue, and this means that governments and financial institutions need to become more effective at using leaked information.

Originality/value

Over the past decade, large-scale, data-driven investigative journalism projects such as the Pandora Papers and the Russian Laundromat have had a significant public impact by exposing money laundering, financial crime and corruption. These projects share certain hallmarks: the use of human intelligence, often sourced from anonymous leaks; inventive fusion of this intelligence with data from open sources; and collaboration among a global collective of investigative journalists to build a narrative. These projects prioritise informing the public. They are also an important information source for government and private sector organisations working to investigate and disrupt financial crime.
The moderating role of CEO overconfidence on debt maturity decisions: evidence from the MENA region
Authors: EL-Ansary Osama , Ahmed Aya M.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This study aims to analyze how cultural variations impact the relationship between long-term debt use and managerial overconfidence. Investigate into how the relationship between growth prospects and the utilization of long-term debt is moderated by managerial overconfidence. In addition, the research explores the moderating effect of managerial overconfidence on cash flow levels.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used long-term debt as the dependent variable and used generalized method of moments–instrumental variables regression analysis to examine data from 356 firms across 11 Middle East and North Africa (MENA) countries and 5 industries between 2013 and 2021.

Findings

CEO overconfidence moderately boosts the link between long-term debt maturity and growth potential, particularly for firms with limited internal funding. Cultural factors, such as masculinity and uncertainty avoidance, play a significant role in moderating the relationship between managerial overconfidence and debt maturity choices.

Practical implications

To understand the impact of managerial overconfidence on a company’s debt maturity decision, it is essential for boards and shareholders to consider and monitor the CEO’s behavioral traits, particularly for growing companies. Regulators and policymakers must also be wary of the risk of internal control weakening due to overconfident managers, especially in MENA markets.

Originality/value

The authors’ contribution to the literature lies in exploring how managerial overconfidence moderates the agency conflict between shareholders and debtholders in MENA region firms, which has received minimal attention in previous studies. This study expands the knowledge of the impact of managerial overconfidence on emerging economies and provides evidence that national culture plays a vital role in determining debt financing decisions.
Smart tourism: the role and synergies of stakeholders
Authors: Zvaigzne Anda , Mietule Iveta , Kotane Inta , Vonoga Aija , Meiste Ruta
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to provide a thematic literature analysis of smart tourism and the role of stakeholders and synergy relating to the implementation of smart tourism.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on a review of prior research by various authors on smart tourism and the role of stakeholders and synergy relating to the implementation of smart tourism.

Findings

Research studies define the concept of smart tourism as a form of technological, economic and social evolution, which is influenced by such elements as the Internet, social media, smart devices and mobile applications, among others. Stakeholder theory is based on the organizational context, and various individuals and groups within an organization are mutually supported and influenced by the same organizational goals. The research studies have found that cooperation between internal and external stakeholders could involve designing a tourism strategy, coordinating tourism promotion and branding, raising local tourism awareness, standardizing tourist facilities, making ticket price policies and communicating with tourism stakeholders.

Originality/value

The paper provides a thematic literature review of smart tourism, the role of stakeholders and synergy from the perspective of the implementation of smart tourism.
Mick Marchington and his contributions to human resource management
Authors: Wilkinson Adrian , Budhwar Pawan , Wood Geoff
Published: June 2023

Mick Marchington's contributions to the field of human resource management (HRM) was considerable through his leadership, teaching and research. In the research arena he made significant contributions to the topics of employee voice, participation, and involvement as well as the future of work. A common thread to his research concerned humanising management and HRM through a pluralist value system. In this article we summarise his key contributions.
External validation of a risk model predicting failure of salvage focal ablation for prostate cancer
Authors: Light Alexander , Peters Max , Reddy Deepika , Kanthabalan Abi , Otieno Marjorie , Pavlou Menelaos , Omar Rumana , Adeleke Sola , Giganti Francesco , Brew‐Graves Chris , Williams Norman R. , Emara Amr , Haroon Athar , Latifoltojar Arash , Sidhu Harbir , Freeman Alex , Orczyk Clement , Nikapota Ashok , Dudderidge Tim , Hindley Richard G. , Virdi Jaspal , Arya Manit , Payne Heather , Mitra Anita V. , Bomanji Jamshed , Winkler Mathias , Horan Gail , Moore Caroline , Emberton Mark , Punwani Shonit , Ahmed Hashim U. , Shah Taimur T.
Published: June 2023

Objectives

To externally validate a published model predicting failure within 2 years after salvage focal ablation in men with localised radiorecurrent prostate cancer using a prospective, UK multicentre dataset.

Patients and methods

Patients with biopsy‐confirmed ≤T3bN0M0 cancer after previous external beam radiotherapy or brachytherapy were included from the FOcal RECurrent Assessment and Salvage Treatment (FORECAST) trial (NCT01883128; 2014–2018; six centres), and from the high‐intensity focussed ultrasound (HIFU) Evaluation and Assessment of Treatment (HEAT) and International Cryotherapy Evaluation (ICE) UK‐based registries (2006–2022; nine centres). Eligible patients underwent either salvage focal HIFU or cryotherapy, with the choice based predominantly on anatomical factors. Per the original multivariable Cox regression model, the predicted outcome was a composite failure outcome. Model performance was assessed at 2 years post‐salvage with discrimination (concordance index [C‐index]), calibration (calibration curve and slope), and decision curve analysis. For the latter, two clinically‐reasonable risk threshold ranges of 0.14–0.52 and 0.26–0.36 were considered, corresponding to previously published pooled 2‐year recurrence‐free survival rates for salvage local treatments.

Results

A total of 168 patients were included, of whom 84/168 (50%) experienced the primary outcome in all follow‐ups, and 72/168 (43%) within 2 years. The C‐index was 0.65 (95% confidence interval 0.58–0.71). On graphical inspection, there was close agreement between predicted and observed failure. The calibration slope was 1.01. In decision curve analysis, there was incremental net benefit vs a ‘treat all’ strategy at risk thresholds of ≥0.23. The net benefit was therefore higher across the majority of the 0.14–0.52 risk threshold range, and all of the 0.26–0.36 range.

Conclusion

In external validation using prospective, multicentre data, this model demonstrated modest discrimination but good calibration and clinical utility for predicting failure of salvage focal ablation within 2 years. This model could be reasonably used to improve selection of appropriate treatment candidates for salvage focal ablation, and its use should be considered when discussing salvage options with patients. Further validation in larger, international cohorts with longer follow‐up is recommended.
Kinetic analysis of fluorescent ligand binding to cell surface receptors: Insights into conformational changes and allosterism in living cells
Authors: Hill Stephen J. , Kilpatrick Laura E.
Published: June 2023

Equilibrium binding assays are one of the mainstays of current drug discovery efforts to evaluate the interaction of drugs with receptors in membranes and intact cells. However, in recent years, there has been increased focus on the kinetics of the drug–receptor interaction to gain insight into the lifetime of drug–receptor complexes and the rate of association of a ligand with its receptor. Furthermore, drugs that act on topically distinct sites (allosteric) from those occupied by the endogenous ligand (orthosteric site) can induce conformational changes in the orthosteric binding site leading to changes in the association and/or dissociation rate constants of orthosteric ligands. Conformational changes in the orthosteric ligand binding site can also be induced through interaction with neighbouring accessory proteins and receptor homodimerisation and heterodimerisation. In this review, we provide an overview of the use of fluorescent ligand technologies to interrogate ligand–receptor kinetics in living cells and the novel insights that they can provide into the conformational changes induced by drugs acting on a variety of cell surface receptors including G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs), receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) and cytokine receptors.
Clinical course of peripheral precocious puberty in girls due to autonomous ovarian cysts
Authors: Heo Seung , Shim Young Suk , Lee Hae Sang , Hwang Jin Soon
Published: June 2023

Objective

Peripheral precocious puberty (PPP) is the precocious development of secondary sexual characteristics without pulsatile gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion. In girls, PPP suggests a hyper‐oestrogenic state, such as autonomous ovarian cysts and McCune–Albright syndrome (MAS). We aimed to investigate PPP in girls with ovarian cysts, with or without MAS.

Design

A retrospective study design was used.

Patients and Measurements

The study included 12 girls diagnosed with ovarian cysts with PPP between January 2003 and May 2022. Pelvic sonography was performed in cases of vaginal bleeding or areolar pigmentation in PPP. The clinical characteristics, clinical course and pelvic sonographic findings of girls with ovarian cysts were investigated.

Results

We found 18 episodes of ovarian cysts in the 12 girls. The median size of the ovarian cysts was 27.5 mm. Five of the girls were diagnosed with MAS. The median time to spontaneous regression was 6 months. Later, 4 out of 12 girls progressed to central precocious puberty (CPP), and three of them had a recurrence of ovarian cysts. Compared to the non‐recurrent and recurrent groups, there was a difference in peak luteinizing hormone (LH) in the GnRH stimulation test and period to cyst regression.

Conclusions

Most ovarian cysts in PPP spontaneously disappear. However, this could be one of the findings of MAS. Some girls progress from PPP to CPP. Therefore, follow‐up is necessary for ovarian cysts in patients with PPP. The recurrence of ovarian cysts may occur when spontaneous regression is prolonged.
Making paths and doing bazaar: Rhythms and techniques of walking‐as‐dwelling
Authors: Pani Samprati
Published: June 2023

This article posits the concept of “walking‐as‐dwelling” as a critical analytical frame to counter the dominant Western conceptualization of walking as an event or novel experience that is set apart from ordinary life. Walking‐as‐dwelling refers to how walking is bound with routines of work, domesticity, and leisure, through which people inhabit and make places. Drawing attention to the situatedness of walking in particular places and subjectivities, the article follows the walking practices of women in the Monday bazaar of Nizamuddin Basti, a low‐income neighborhood in Delhi. It examines how women's walking itineraries, rhythms, and techniques co‐constitute the bazaar as a dynamic spacetime configuration, making and remaking the public and social character of the bazaar. It draws attention to the creative and political potential of ordinary practices of walking through which the Basti's women negotiate constraints of gender and class and, in the process, forge affective ties with the bazaar, perform modes of sociality, and articulate freedom and mobility.
Characteristics of flat‐type ulcerative colitis‐associated neoplasia on chromoendoscopic imaging with indigo carmine dye spraying
Authors: Takabayashi Kaoru , Sugimoto Shinya , Nanki Kosaku , Yoshimatsu Yusuke , Kiyohara Hiroki , Mikami Yohei , Sujino Tomohisa , Kato Motohiko , Hosoe Naoki , Shimoda Masayuki , Yahagi Naohisa , Ogata Haruhiko , Iwao Yasushi , Kanai Takanori
Published: June 2023

Objectives

Despite recent advances in endoscopic equipment and diagnostic techniques, early detection of ulcerative colitis‐associated neoplasia (UCAN) remains difficult because of the complex background of the inflamed mucosa of ulcerative colitis and the morphologic diversity of the lesions. We aimed to describe the main diagnostic patterns for UCAN in our cohort, including lateral extension surrounding flat lesions.

Methods

Sixty‐three lesions in 61 patients with flat‐type dysplasia that were imaged with dye chromoendoscopy (DCE) were included in this analysis. These DCE images were analyzed to clarify the dye‐chromoendoscopic imaging characteristics of flat dysplasia, and the lesions were broadly classified into dysplastic and nondysplastic mucosal patterns.

Results

Dysplastic mucosal patterns were classified into two types: small round patterns with round to roundish structures, and mesh patterns with intricate mesh‐like structures. Lesions with a nondysplastic mucosal pattern were divided into two major types: a ripple‐like type and a gyrus‐like type. Of note, 35 lesions (55.6%) had a small round pattern, and 51 lesions (80.9%) had some type of mesh pattern. About 70% of lesions with small round patterns and 49% of lesions with mesh patterns were diagnosed as high‐grade dysplasia or carcinoma, while about 30% of lesions with small round patterns and 51% of lesions with mesh patterns were diagnosed as low‐grade dysplasia.

Conclusion

When a characteristic mucosal pattern, such as a small round or mesh pattern, is found by DCE, the possibility of UCAN should be considered.
A micro‐randomized pilot study to examine the impact of just‐in‐time nudging on after‐dinner snacking in adults with type 2 diabetes: A study protocol
Authors: Zhao Lijun , Bidargaddi Niranjan , Vakulin Andrew , Li Wenhao , Luscombe‐Marsh Natalie , Benton Fiona , Adams Robert , Kemps Eva , Vincent Andrew D. , Heilbronn Leonie K. , Wittert Gary A.
Published: June 2023

Aim

To determine whether a digital nudge soon after dinner reduces after‐dinner snacking events as measured objectively by continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods

This is a single‐site micro‐randomized trial (MRT). People with T2D, aged 18‐75 years, managed with diet or a stable dose of oral antidiabetic medications for at least 3 months, and who habitual snack after dinner at least 3 nights per week, will be recruited. Picto‐graphic nudges were designed by mixed research methods. After a 2‐week lead‐in phase to determine eligibility and snacking behaviours by a CGM detection algorithm developed by the investigators, participants will be micro‐randomized daily (1:1) to a second 2‐week period to either a picto‐graphic nudge delivered‐in‐time (Intui Research) or no nudge. During lead‐in and MRT phases, 24‐hour glucose will be measured by CGM, sleep will be tracked by an under‐mattress sleep sensor, and dinner timing will be captured daily by photographing the evening meal.

Results

The primary outcome is the difference in the incremental area under the CGM curve between nudging and non‐nudging days during the period from 90 minutes after dinner until 04:00 AM. Secondary outcomes include the effect of baseline characteristics on treatment, and comparisons of glucose peaks and time‐in‐range between nudging and non‐nudging days. The feasibility of 'just‐in‐time' messaging and nudge acceptability will be evaluated, along with the analysis of sleep quality measures and their night‐to‐night variability.

Conclusions

This study will provide preliminary evidence of the impact of appropriately timed digital nudges on 24 ‐hour intertitial glucose levels resulting from altered after‐dinner snacking in people with T2D. An exploratory sleep substudy will provide evidence of a bidirectional relationship between after‐dinner snacking behaviour, glycaemia and sleep. Ultimately, this study will allow for the design of a future confirmatory study of the potential for digital nudging to improve health related behaviours and health outcomes.
Mediators between canagliflozin and renoprotection vary depending on patient characteristics: Insights from the CREDENCE trial
Authors: Doi Yohei , Hamano Takayuki , Yamaguchi Satoshi , Sakaguchi Yusuke , Kaimori Jun‐Ya , Isaka Yoshitaka
Published: June 2023

Aim

To identify the mediators between canagliflozin and renoprotection in patients with type 2 diabetes at a high risk of end‐stage kidney disease (ESKD).

Methods

In this post hoc analysis of the CREDENCE trial, the effect of canagliflozin on potential mediators (42 biomarkers) at 52 weeks and the association between changes in mediators and renal outcomes were evaluated using mixed‐effects and Cox models, respectively. The renal outcome was a composite of ESKD, serum creatinine doubling or renal death. The percentage of the mediating effect of each significant mediator was calculated based on changes in the hazard ratios of canagliflozin after additional adjustment of the mediator.

Results

Changes in haematocrit, haemoglobin, red blood cell (RBC) count and urinary albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio (UACR) at 52 weeks significantly mediated 47%, 41%, 40% and 29% risk reduction with canagliflozin, respectively. Further, 85% mediation was attributed to the combined effect of haematocrit and UACR. A large variation in mediating effects by haematocrit change existed among the subgroups, ranging from 17% in those patients with a UACR of more than 3000 mg/g to 63% in patients with a UACR of 3000 mg/g or less. In the subgroups with a UACR of more than 3000 mg/g, UACR change was the highest mediating factor (37%), driven by the strong association between UACR decline and renal risk reduction.

Conclusions

The renoprotective effects of canagliflozin in patients at a high risk of ESKD can be significantly explained by changes in RBC variables and UACR. The complementary mediating effects of RBC variables and UACR may support the renoprotective effect of canagliflozin in different patient groups.
Do health assessments affect time to permanent residential aged care admission for older women with and without dementia?
Authors: Byles Julie , Cavenagh Dominic , Bryant Jamie , Carey Mariko , Mazza Danielle , Sanson‐Fisher Rob
Published: June 2023

Aim

To investigate the effect of health assessments on permanent residential aged care admission for older Australian women with and without dementia.

Methods

A total of 1427 older Australian women who had a health assessment between March 2002 and December 2013 were matched with 1427 women who did not have a health assessment in the same period. Linked administrative datasets were used to identify health assessment use, admission to permanent residential aged care, and dementia status. Outcome was time to residential aged care admission from the matched date of health assessment.

Results

Women who had health assessments were less likely to be admitted to residential aged care in the short term (100 days), irrespective of dementia status (subdistribution hazard ratio [SDHR] = 0.35, 95% CI = [0.21, 0.59] for women with dementia; SDHR = 0.39, 95% CI = [0.25, 0.61] for women without dementia). However, there were no significant differences at 500‐ and 1000‐days follow‐up. At 2000‐days follow‐up, women who had a health assessment were more likely to be admitted to residential aged care, regardless of dementia status (SDHR = 1.41, 95% CI = [1.12, 1.79] for women with dementia; SDHR = 1.55, 95% CI = [1.32, 1.82] for women without dementia).

Conclusions

Benefits from health assessments may depend on the recency of the assessment, with women less likely to be admitted to residential aged care in the short term after a health assessment. Our results add to a growing body of literature suggesting that health assessments may provide benefits to older people, including those with dementia. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2023; 23: 595–602.
Gait and/or balance disturbances associated with Alzheimer's dementia among older adults with amnestic mild cognitive impairment: A longitudinal observational study
Authors: Ahn Sangwoo , Chung Jae Woo , Crouter Scott E. , Lee Jung‐Ah , Lee Chung Eun , Anderson Joel G.
Published: June 2023

Aims

To explore whether gait and/or balance disturbances are associated with the onset of Alzheimer's dementia (AD) among older adults with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Design

This study employed a longitudinal retrospective cohort design.

Methods

We obtained data from the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center's Uniform Data Set collected from 35 National Institute on Aging Alzheimer's Disease Research Centers between September 2005 and December 2021. The mean age of participants (n = 2692) was 74.5 years with women making up 47.2% of the sample. Risk of incident AD according to baseline gait and/or balance disturbances as measured using the Postural Instability and Gait Disturbance Score, a subscale of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale Motor Score, was examined by the Cox proportional hazards regression models adjusting for baseline demographics, medical conditions and study sites. The mean follow‐up duration was 4.0 years.

Results

Among all the participants, the presence or the severity of gait and/or balance disturbances was associated with an increased risk of AD. The presence or the severity of gait and/or balance disturbances was associated with a higher risk of Alzheimer's dementia among the subgroups of female and male participants.

Conclusion

Gait and/or balance disturbances may increase the risk of developing AD, regardless of sex.

Impact

Gait and/or balance disturbances among community‐dwelling older adults with amnestic MCI may need to be frequently assessed by nurses to identify potential risk factors for cognitive decline.

No patient or public contribution

Given the secondary analysis, patients, service users, caregivers or members of the public were not directly involved in this study.
Contribution of PGAP3 co‐amplified and co‐overexpressed with ERBB2 at 17q12 involved poor prognosis in gastric cancer
Authors: Wang Dong , Hao Siyu , He Hongjie , Zhang Jian , You Ge , Wu Xin , Zhang Rui , Meng Xiangning , Cui Xiaobo , Bai Jing , Fu Songbin , Yu Jingcui
Published: June 2023

The locus at 17q12 erb‐b2 receptor tyrosine kinase 2 (ERBB2) has been heavily amplificated and overexpressed in gastric cancer (GC), but it remains to be elucidated about the clinical significance of the co‐amplification and co‐overexpression of PGAP3 gene located around ERBB2 in GC. The profile of PGAP3 and ERBB2 in four GC cell lines and tissue microarrays containing 418 primary GC tissues was assessed to investigate the co‐overexpression and clinical significance of the co‐amplified genes, and to evaluate the impact of the co‐amplified genes on the malignancy of GC. Co‐amplification of PGAP3 and ERBB2 accompanied with co‐overexpression was observed in a haploid chromosome 17 of NCI‐N87 cells with double minutes (DMs). PGAP3 and ERBB2 were overexpressed and positively correlated in 418 GC patients. Co‐overexpression of the PGAP3 and ERBB2 was correlated with T stage, TNM stage, tumour size, intestinal histological type and poor survival proportion in 141 GC patients. In vitro, knockdown of the endogenous PGAP3 or ERBB2 decreased cell proliferation and invasion, increased G1 phase accumulation and induced apoptosis in NCI‐N87 cells. Furthermore, combined silencing of PGAP3 and ERBB2 showed an additive effect on resisting proliferation of NCI‐N87 cells compared with targeting ERBB2 or PGAP3 alone. Taken together, the co‐overexpression of PGAP3 and ERBB2 may be crucial due to its significant correlation with clinicopathological factors of GC. Haploid gain of PGAP3 co‐amplified with ERBB2 is sufficient to facilitate the malignancy and progression of GC cells in a synergistic way.
Does sunk‐cost affect prices? Evidence from the US airline industry
Authors: Shi Long , Liu Qihong , Kim Myongjin
Published: June 2023

In contrast to the extensive literature on behavior bias by individuals, studies on behavior bias by firms have been relatively scarce. We explore the possibility of the latter in the context of US airlines, where fuel hedging leads to lump sum gains or losses which may impact airlines' pricing decisions. Our results show that the (sunk) hedging gains or losses affect airlines' ticket prices. In particular, a 10% reduction in airlines' reported fuel costs (due to hedging gains) leads to a 2.2% reduction in ticket prices. Moving onto nonprice decisions, we find that hedging gains lead airlines to use larger aircraft and reduce the airtime of their flights, yet have no impact on the number of routes and flights which the airlines operate. Our results provide empirical evidence that fixed/sunk costs can affect firms' prices and nonprice decisions, establish a link between financial market and product market competition, and have important welfare/policy and managerial implications.
Spatial and intra‐host distribution of myxozoan parasite Tetracapsuloides bryosalmonae among Baltic sea trout (Salmo trutta)
Authors: Lauringson Magnus , Kahar Siim , Veevo Taigor , Silm Maidu , Philpott Duncan , Svirgsden Roland , Rohtla Mehis , Päkk Priit , Gross Riho , Kaart Tanel , Vasemägi Anti
Published: June 2023

Proliferative kidney disease caused by the myxozoan parasite Tetracapsuloides bryosalmonae has been actively studied in juvenile salmonids for decades. However, very little is known about parasite prevalence and its geographical and intra‐host distribution at older life stages. We screened T. bryosalmonae among adult sea trout (Salmo trutta) (n = 295) collected along the Estonian Baltic Sea coastline together with juvenile trout from 33 coastal rivers (n = 1752) to assess spatial infection patterns of the adult and juvenile fish. The parasite was detected among 38.6% of adult sea trout with the prevalence increasing from west to east, and south to north, along the coastline. A similar pattern was observed in juvenile trout. Infected sea trout were also older than uninfected fish and the parasite was detected in sea trout up to the age of 6 years. Analysis of intra‐host distribution of the parasite and strontium to calcium ratios from the otoliths revealed that (re)infection through freshwater migration may occur among adult sea trout. The results of this study indicate that T. bryosalmonae can persist in a brackish water environment for several years and that returning sea trout spawners most likely contribute to the parasite life cycle by transmitting infective spores.
COVID‐19 job loss and re‐employment among partnered parents: Gender and educational variations
Authors: Qian Yue , Glauber Rebecca , Yavorsky Jill E.
Published: June 2023

Objective

This study examines the re‐employment prospects and short‐term career consequences for mothers and fathers who lost their jobs during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Background

The pandemic recession has been dubbed a “shecession,” but few studies have explored whether mothers paid a higher or lower price upon labor market re‐entry than fathers.

Method

This study draws on March 2020–December 2022 Current Population Survey data and focuses on partnered parents with children under age 13 in the household. Exploiting four‐month panels, we use multi‐level discrete‐time event history models to predict re‐employment and linear regression models to predict job‐level wage upon re‐employment, while controlling for a wide array of factors.

Results

Partnered fathers were more likely than partnered mothers to find re‐employment during the pandemic. The gender gap in re‐employment was concentrated only among parents without a bachelor's degree and persisted when all controls were held constant. Moreover, upon re‐employment, fathers had higher job‐level wages than mothers, which was consistent across educational levels. Even with the same job‐level wage before labor market exit, mothers were penalized on re‐entry relative to fathers and this penalty was rooted in gendered job segregation.

Conclusion

This study extends previous research by analyzing re‐employment and a critical material outcome for parents (i.e., job‐level wage upon re‐employment) during the entire pandemic, including the “new normal” (late 2022). The results reveal the intersectional inequalities in family and work: Compared to fathers, mothers, particularly less‐educated mothers, paid a higher price for their time out of work during the pandemic.
Parental education and child health: The exploration of the cross‐gender intergenerational transmission mechanism
Authors: Rasciute Simona
Published: June 2023

This paper analyses the causal effects of different levels of mother's and father's education on child general and mental health, by applying a fixed effects instrumental variable panel data estimator with selection to nationally represented longitudinal data of over 13,000 observations in the United Kingdom from 2008 to 2019. The results reveal a negative association between mother's education and boys' mental health, potentially driven by relative rather than absolute levels of education between parents. Differences in educational attainment between parents signal unequal power and different values, which inhibits conflict resolution and commitment, leading to higher likelihood of breaking up, which in turn may negatively affect child mental health. On the contrary, no evidence is found of causal links between different levels of mother's and father's education on child health, indicating the relevance of potential environmental factors in the intergenerational transmission mechanism. This calls for more co‐ordination of educational interventions with other economic policies, also taking economic cycle into account.
Export intensity and its effect on women's employment
Authors: Amin Mohammad , Islam Asif M.
Published: June 2023

Using firm‐level survey data for 29,962 manufacturing firms in 141 developing and emerging countries, the impact of exports (as a percentage of sales) on the share of female workers at the firm is estimated. The impact is positive, large, and statistically significant. For the baseline specification, moving from a firm that does not export to one that does all its sales abroad is associated with a 6.6 percentage point increase in the share of female workers. This positive relationship is much stronger when competition in the domestic markets is low, social attitudes and mobility laws are more favorable to women's work outside the home, and the law‐and‐order situation is better. We argue that these heterogeneities serve as important checks against endogeneity concerns. We also provide results using the average share of exports in a country–industry cell as an instrument. The policy implications of our findings are discussed in detail.
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease without overlapping metabolic‐associated fatty liver disease and the risk of incident type 2 diabetes
Authors: Cho Yoosun , Chang Yoosoo , Ryu Seungho , Wild Sarah H. , Byrne Christopher D.
Published: June 2023

Background and Aims

Re‐classifying NAFLD as metabolic‐associated fatty liver (MAFLD) has been proposed. While some people fulfil criteria for NAFLD, they do not have MAFLD; and whether NAFLD‐only subjects have increased the risk of type 2 diabetes remains unknown. We compared risk of incident T2D in individuals with: (a) NAFLD‐only; and (b) MAFLD, to individuals without fatty liver, considering effect modification by sex.

Methods

246 424 Koreans without diabetes or a secondary cause of ultrasound‐diagnosed hepatic steatosis were studied. Subjects were stratified into: (a) NAFLD‐only status and (b) NAFLD that overlapped with MAFLD (MAFLD). Cox proportional hazards models with incident T2D as the outcome were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) for: (a) and (b). Models were adjusted for time‐dependent covariates, and effect modification by sex was analysed in subgroups.

Results

A total of 5439 participants had NAFLD‐only status and 56 839 met MAFLD criteria. During a median follow‐up of 5.5 years, 8402 incident cases of T2D occurred. Multivariable‐adjusted HRs (95% CI) for incident T2D comparing NAFLD‐only and MAFLD to the reference (neither condition) were 2.39 (1.63–3.51) and 5.75 (5.17–6.36) (women), and 1.53 (1.25–1.88) and 2.60 (2.44–2.76) (men), respectively. The increased risk of T2D in the NAFLD‐only group was higher in women than in men (p for interaction by sex <0.001) and consistently observed across all subgroups. Risk of T2D was increased in lean participants regardless of metabolic dysregulation (including prediabetes).

Conclusions

NAFLD‐only participants without metabolic dysregulation and the criteria for MAFLD are at increased risk of developing T2D. This association was consistently stronger in women than in men.
Effect of beta‐blockers on multiple haemodynamics in cirrhosis: A cross‐over study by MR‐imaging and hepatic vein catheterization
Authors: Danielsen Karen Vagner , Nabilou Puria , Wiese Signe Skovgaard , Hove Jens Dahlgaard , Bendtsen Flemming , Møller Søren
Published: June 2023

Background

Non‐selective beta‐blockers (NSBB) are widely used in the treatment of patients with cirrhosis. Only about 50% respond with a sufficient reduction in their hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) and NSBB may induce detrimental cardiac and renal effects in the presence of severe decompensation. We aimed to assess the effects of NSBB on haemodynamics using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and to assess if these haemodynamic changes were related to the disease severity and HVPG response.

Method

A prospective cross‐over study of 39 patients with cirrhosis. Patients underwent hepatic vein catheterization and MRI with assessments of HVPG, cardiac function, systemic and splanchnic haemodynamics before and after propranolol infusion.

Results

Propranolol induced significant decreases in cardiac output (−12%) and blood flow of all vascular compartments, with the largest reductions seen in the azygos venous (−28%), portal venous (−21%), splenic (−19%) and superior mesenteric artery (−16%) blood flow. Renal artery blood flow fell by −5% in the total cohort, with a more pronounced reduction in patients without ascites than in those with ascites (−8% vs. −3%, p = .01). Twenty‐four patients were NSBB responders. Their changes in HVPG after NSBB were not significantly associated with other haemodynamic changes.

Conclusion

The changes in cardiac, systemic and splanchnic haemodynamics did not differ between NSBB responders and non‐responders. The effects of acute NSBB blockade on renal flow seem to depend on the severity of the hyperdynamic state, with the largest reduction in renal blood flow in compensated patients compared to decompensated patients with cirrhosis. However, future studies are needed to assess the effects of NSBB on haemodynamics and renal blood flow in patients with diuretic‐resistant ascites.
Mechanical regulation of cortical microtubules in plant cells
Authors: Yan Yu , Sun Zhenping , Yan Pengcheng , Wang Ting , Zhang Yi
Published: June 2023

All living organisms are subjected to mechanical forces at all times. It has been reported that mechanics regulate many key cellular processes, including cell polarity establishment, cell division and gene expression, as a physical signal in both animal and plant development. Plant cells are exposed to several types of mechanical stresses, ranging from turgor‐driven tensile stresses, mechanical force modified by heterogeneous growth directions and rates between neighbouring cells, to forces from the environment such as wind and rain, for which they have developed adaptive mechanisms. Increasing evidence has revealed that mechanical stresses markedly influence the alignment of cortical microtubules (CMTs) in plant cells, among other effects. CMTs are able to reorient in response to mechanical stresses at both the single‐cell and tissue levels and always align with the maximal tensile stress direction. In this review, we discussed the known and potential molecules and pathways involved in the regulation of CMTs by mechanical stresses. We also summarized the available techniques that have allowed for mechanical perturbation. Finally, we highlighted several key questions remaining to be addressed in this emerging field.
From cultivation to culture: Wheat farming and sex selection in China
Authors: Chen Xiangpo , Hu Xinyan , Huang Xuxi , Chen Zhuo
Published: June 2023

Sex selection has been linked to son preference and discrimination against girls in many Asian countries. In this study, we shed light on the shaping role of rice–wheat cropping system to the subsequent gender inequality in China. Using an individual‐level dataset compiled from a national scale survey and an archaeology publication, we show regional differences in gender inequality across China: parents show strong gender discrimination against girls in wheat regions. And 15.2 percentage points more parents from wheat regions engage in successful sex selection than those from non‐wheat regions. The mechanism analysis reveals that women empowerment matters.
Use of a microwave device for the treatment of cellulite and localized fat adiposity: a 1‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Salsi Benedetta , Coli Federica , Ronconi Lara , Fusco Irene , Zingoni Tiziano , Bonan Paolo
Published: June 2023

Background

The body contour market has grown steadily over the last years, due to the persistent demand for non‐invasive treatments for localized fat adiposities, cellulite, and skin laxity.

Materials and Methods

The purpose of this observational study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a new device delivering microwaves (MWs) energy for unwanted fat and cellulite reduction after a full cycle of treatments and 1 year later. A total of 45 patients with localized adiposity and/or cellulite in different body areas (inner thigh, upper arm, abdomen, culotte de cheval, buttocks), received four treatment sessions, 4 weeks apart. Photographic records and global aesthetic improvement scale (GAIS) score were performed.

Results

For the treatment of cellulite the average GAIS score passed from 3.65 ± 0.49 at 1‐month follow‐up (1MFU) to 2.7 ± 0.66 at 1‐year follow‐up (1YFU). For the treatment of localized adiposity, the average GAIS score passed from 3.52 ± 0.51 at 1MFU to 2.82 ± 0.88 at 1YFU. No particular red area was detected either during or after the treatment. There was no mention of assessment of pain or side effects.

Conclusions

The study findings showed that MWs allow for the treatment of cellulite and localized fat adiposity in a safe and effective way, with results lasting over time up to 1 year after the end of the treatment.
Application of high‐performance DIC for a comprehensive evaluation of biaxial fatigue crack growth experiments
Authors: Blug Andreas , Conrad Fabian , Bertz Alexander , Kontermann Christian , Carl Daniel , Oechsner Matthias
Published: June 2023

Precise determination of the remaining service life of technical components requires sufficient knowledge of fatigue crack growth behaviour and the growth rate of defects. Cracks in real components often experience multiaxial far field stresses due to their complex geometry and composite loadings acting on it. Digital image correlation (DIC) is well established for crack length and displacement measurements, but it usually requires sample preparation with speckle paint and interferes with mechanical extensometers. To overcome these limitations, we use a novel 2D DIC system combining a graphics processing unit (GPU) with a CoaXPress 2.0 camera, acquiring up to 3 GB/s of image data. It enables real‐time evaluation of both integral strain like an extensometer and full‐field DIC on images selected automatically in real‐time. This combination enables the use of one single sensor for strain‐controlled testing and fatigue crack growth characterisation. The full‐field displacement is compared to a finite‐element model (FEM) simulating the actual crack contour measured by the DIC system. The results show that high‐performance DIC has the potential to simultaneously simplify crack‐growth experiments and provide comprehensive fracture mechanical information.