bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of creative strategies in enhancing consumer interaction with new product video advertising
Authors: Niu Yixuan , Ma Baolong , Niu Yongge
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study explores the inverted U-shaped relationship between the number of creative strategies (NCS) and consumer response to new products as incrementally new products (INPs) and really new products (RNPs).

Design/methodology/approach

Leveraging a dataset of 757 digital video advertisements from six prominent technology-driven companies, content analysis and hierarchical polynomial regression were employed to explore the relationship between the NCS and consumer responses, considering product newness.

Findings

The results reveal a highly significant inverted U-shaped relationship between NCS and consumer response. The turning point of the inverted U-shaped function was 3.204. This relationship holds for both types of new product: INP and RNP. In addition, product newness negatively affects consumer responses. Based on this research, this study found that technology-driven new product video advertisements use more information and argument types of creative strategies. In addition, compared to INP, RNP video ads use more command and habit-starting creative strategies.

Research limitations/implications

Further research on the effect of the combination of multiple creative strategies on consumer responses can help advertisers design an effective advertisement.

Practical implications

Advertisers can determine the best mix of creative strategies based on the type of new product.

Originality/value

This study confirms that the impact of NCS on consumer responses is not a simple linear relationship. When the three creative strategies are implemented, consumers’ positive reactions reach their maximum value.
Factors influencing the adoption of artificial intelligence systems: a systematic literature review
Authors: Khanfar Ahmad A. , Kiani Mavi Reza , Iranmanesh Mohammad , Gengatharen Denise
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Despite the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) systems to increase revenue, reduce costs and enhance performance, their adoption by organisations has fallen short of expectations, leading to unsuccessful implementations. This paper aims to identify and elucidate the factors influencing AI adoption at both the organisational and individual levels. Developing a conceptual model, it contributes to understanding the underlying individual, social, technological, organisational and environmental factors and guides future research in this area.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors have conducted a systematic literature review to synthesise the literature on the determinants of AI adoption. In total, 90 papers published in the field of AI adoption in the organisational context were reviewed to identify a set of factors influencing AI adoption.

Findings

This study categorised the factors influencing AI system adoption into individual, social, organisational, environmental and technological factors. Firm-level factors were found to impact employee behaviour towards AI systems. Further research is needed to understand the effects of these factors on employee perceptions, emotions and behaviours towards new AI systems. These findings led to the proposal of a theory-based model illustrating the relationships between these factors, challenging the assumption of independence between adoption influencers at both the firm and employee levels.

Originality/value

This study is one of the first to synthesise current knowledge on determinants of AI adoption, serving as a theoretical foundation for further research in this emerging field. The adoption model developed integrates key factors from both the firm and individual levels, offering a holistic view of the interconnectedness of various AI adoption factors. This approach challenges the assumption that factors at the firm and individual levels operate independently. Through this study, information systems researchers and practitioners gain a deeper understanding of AI adoption, enhancing their insight into its potential impacts.
Doing business in the city: environment configurations and firm digital transformation
Authors: Chu Xu , Bai Yuntao , Zhu Baoying
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Digital transformation (DX) is advancing in the post-pandemic era, yet regional disparities remain pronounced. This uneven distribution may be attributed to cities’ doing business environment. As the doing business environment comprises various components, we aim to explore how these components interact to affect local firms' DX, thereby identifying which configurations of the doing business environment contribute to firms' DX.

Design/methodology/approach

The doing business environment in our study contains seven components: public services, government, legal, innovation, market, human resources and financial services environments. We adopt a fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis approach to determine the necessary and sufficient conditions for firms' high-level DX. The sample consists of enterprises listed on the China Science and Technology Innovation Board.

Findings

Firstly, a single doing business environment component is unnecessary for firms to produce a high- or non-high-level DX. Secondly, four configurations of the doing business environment explain firms' high-level DX of three general types: doing business environment configurations (1) dominated by the cost hypothesis, (2) synergised by the cost and resource hypotheses and (3) dominated by the resource hypothesis. Thirdly, the configurational paths generating firms’ high- or non-high-level DX are asymmetric and only one doing business environment configuration will lead to firms' non-high-level DX.

Originality/value

This study presents a ground-breaking exploration of the mechanisms driving firms' DX in terms of the city-level doing business environment and its dual functions. Additionally, we elucidate the reasons for the uneven regional distribution of DX development.
Dynamic capabilities, ordinary capabilities and international intensity contributions to performance
Authors: Garrab Mehdi Younes
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Drawing on the resource-based view and dynamic-capabilities view, the purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of a firm’s ordinary and dynamic capabilities on performance. The study also explores the moderating effects of international intensity on the relationship between capabilities and performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a data envelopment analysis and a generalized moments method to analyze secondary panel data collected from a sample of 164 manufacturing firms for nine years.

Findings

The findings reveal that a firm’s capabilities are a predictor of firm performance, dynamic capabilities strengthen the ordinary capabilities – performance relationships and international intensity positively moderates the capabilities – performance relationships.

Research limitations/implications

There is a need for more in-depth methods to capture dynamic capabilities and effects in an international context.

Practical implications

The findings reveal two practical implications for managers. First, to be successful, managers must make more efforts to maintain technological, marketing and financial capabilities, which are considered determinants of performance. Second, managers must invest even more to build a dynamic capability to ensure capabilities reconfiguration to effectively benefit from an internationalization strategy.

Originality/value

The study introduces many ordinary capabilities alongside dynamic ones as predictors of performance in the same theoretical model. The authors also examine the moderating influence of international intensity on the relationship between ordinary capabilities – dynamic capabilities – and performance.
Study on the dynamic coupled coordination and influencing factors of the digital economy, energy and human habitat in Western China
Authors: Li Shiwu , Yang He , Huang Wei , Yang Hao
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to explore the spatio-temporal dynamic characteristics and influencing factors of the coordination degree of the three systems of digital economy, energy and human habitat in Western China and to provide academic research support for promoting coordinated and sustainable development in similar regions of the world.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on system theory and sustainable development theory, this study primarily uses the coupled coordination degree model to assess the degree of coordination between the three systems.

Findings

The findings of this study indicate that: The three systems’ overall coordination is low. The distribution of the degree of coordination has spatial differences and its coefficient of variation is small. The probability of the coordination type changing for the better is greater than that of the opposite, and neighboring provinces interact with one another. The old-age dependence ratio, the resident population’s urbanization rate and public budget expenditure have the strongest gray association with the degree of coordination.

Practical implications

This study’s findings will be valuable for policymakers in developing policies to promote the coordinated and sustainable growth of the region’s digital economy, energy and human habitat. Additionally, the findings will aid in facilitating regional exchanges and cooperation to enhance the level of sustainable development.

Social implications

This study’s findings will contribute to increased social interest in coordinating sustainable growth in the digital economy, energy and human habitat.

Originality/value

This study examines the digital economy, energy and human habitat within the same framework and investigates spatial spillover effects using spatial Markov chains.
Association of statins, gliptins, and antipsychotics with bullous pemphigoid: A case–control study in the Cretan population
Authors: Kavvalou Eirini , Krasagakis Konstantinos , Chlouverakis Gregory , Xekouki Paraskevi , Daraki Vasiliki , Kouvidou Charikleia , Lagoudaki Eleni , Krüger‐Krasagakis Sabine‐Elke
Published: January 2025

Bullous pemphigoid (BP) is an autoimmune blistering disorder predominantly affecting the elderly. Recently, many studies have shed light on the effect of specific drug intake and comorbidities on the development of BP. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association of specific drug class intake and comorbidities with the development of BP in the Cretan population. Significant associations with BP were found for statins (odds ratio [OR] = 4.06, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.99–8.27, P < 0.001), gliptins (OR = 4.27, 95% CI 2.33–7.83, P < 0.001), and antipsychotics (OR = 3.33, 95% CI 1.36–8.11, P = 0.006). Higher proportions of use in the BP group vs. control group were found for atorvastatin (OR = 1.86, 95% CI 1.04–3.32, P = 0.035), linagliptin (OR = 6.63, 95% CI 2.17–20.23, P < 0.001), vildagliptin (OR = 3.20, 95% CI 1.73–5.91, P < 0.001), alogliptin (OR = 5.11, 95% CI 1.19–22.04, P = 0.016), and quetiapine (OR = 4.21, 95% CI 1.5–11.85, P = 0.004). The presence of diabetes mellitus in the absence of gliptins did not show any significant effect on BP (OR = 1.60, 95% CI 0.79–3.23, P = 0.188). Metformin intake showed no significant association with BP (OR = 0.48, 95% CI 0.18–1.28, P = 0.143). Our findings confirm and extend previous studies reporting the association of gliptins and antipsychotics on BP in other European populations. The association found for statins is new, thus more studies are needed to corroborate its validity.
Two decades of arthropod biodiversity after windthrow show different dynamics of functional groups
Authors: Wermelinger Beat , Obrist Martin K. , Duelli Peter , Schneider Mathis Doris , Gossner Martin M.
Published: January 2025

Windthrow disturbance is an important driver of arthropod diversity in forests. In the past, studies have mainly focused on the first years after disturbance, and there are hardly any data on arthropod trajectories in windthrows and on salvage logging effects over decades.

We sampled arthropods of different functional groups on 16 permanent plots following two windstorms (Vivian and Lothar) in coniferous and broadleaf forests at different elevations in Central Europe over two decades. Flight interception and pitfall traps were operated during the entire growing seasons in three habitat types per site: unsalvaged windthrow, salvaged windthrow and control forest.

In total, 524,115 individuals from 1666 arthropod species were identified, of which more than 90% occurred in windthrows, including 40%–53% species exclusively found in windthros. Over the two decades, saproxylics, herbivores, pollinators, predators and endangered species showed significantly higher species numbers and abundances in windthrows than in control forests, where only 6% exclusive species occurred.

Arthropod communities in windthrows showed distinct dynamics during the two decades. Their species numbers and abundances peaked in the first 3 years, coined by saproxylic species, such as bark beetles, and by pollinating hoverflies. While abundances declined rapidly, species numbers remained elevated for two decades. Arthropod similarity between windthrows and forests (indicating resilience) increased with time but depended on elevation and forest type. After 20 years, it reached an average of 50% in lowland broadleaf forests, but only 30% in high‐elevation spruce forests, indicating lower resilience.

Salvage logging had no significant effect on overall species numbers but altered species composition. More than 10% exclusive species were found in salvaged and up to 20% in unsalvaged windthrows, with the latter supporting more endangered species, particularly towards the second decade.

Synthesis and applications. Our study shows that windthrow causes an initial boost of arthropod diversity. While abundances thereafter rapidly decline, species numbers remain at relatively high levels during at least two decades. Unsalvaged windthrows are an indispensable resource for endangered species, particularly in later wood decay stages.
Restoring Autophagy by Exercise Ameliorates Insulin Resistance Partly via Calcineurin‐Driven TFEB Nuclear Translocation
Authors: Wang Ping , Li Jiaxin , Li Chun Guang , Zhou Xian , Chen Xiaolong , Zhu Minghua , Wang Hongjiang
Published: January 2025

Exercise activates autophagy and lysosome system in skeletal muscle, which are known to play an important role in metabolic adaptation. However, the mechanism of exercise‐activated autophagy and lysosome system in obese insulin resistance remains covert. In this study, we investigated the role of exercise‐induced activation of autophagy and lysosome system in improving glucose metabolism of skeletal muscle. Male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into five groups: the chow diet (CD) group, the high‐fat diet (HFD) group, the high‐fat diet plus exercise (HFD‐E) group and the HFD‐E treated with calcineurin inhibitor FK506 (HFD‐E‐F) or saline (HFD‐E‐S) groups. The mice in exercise groups (HFD‐E, HFD‐E‐F and HFD‐E‐S) were subjected to aerobic treadmill exercise (speed at 12 m/min for 1 h per session, 0° slope, 5 days per week for 12 weeks). Mice of HFD‐E‐F group were intraperitoneally administered FK506 (1 mg/kg), once each day for 2 weeks before the end of exercise. Expressions pTFEB, T‐TFEB and autophagy–lysosome markers, including Beclin1, LC3, ULK1, SQSTM1, LAMP1, CTSD and CTSL proteins in gastrocnemius muscle were analysed. We demonstrated that HFD induced insulin resistance and decreased autophagy‐lysosomal proteins and the exercise significantly increased transcription factor EB (TFEB) translocation from the cytoplasm to the nucleus, restored the impaired autophagy‐lysosomal‐related protein expressions, and improved glucose metabolism. The increase in TFEB nuclear translocation was partly blocked by the calcineurin inhibitor FK506. Our results suggest that exercise promotes autophagy and lysosome restoration by regulating calcineurin‐mediated TFEB nuclear translocation, ultimately alleviating HFD‐induced insulin resistance in mice skeletal muscle.
A peptide from Boletus griseus‐Hypomyces chrysospermus protects against hypertension and associated cardiac and renal damage through modulating RAAS and intestinal microbiota
Authors: Huan Pengtao , Sun Liping , Chen Shupeng , Zhong Yujie , Zhuang Yongliang
Published: January 2025

Hypertension is a major risk factor for many cardiovascular diseases, which can lead to kidney and heart disease, stroke, and premature death. Inhibiting angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) activity is an effective method to relieve hypertension. Previously, we screened an active peptide KYPHVF (KF6) from Boletus griseus‐Hypomyces chrysospermus with excellent ACE inhibitory activity. This study further evaluated the antihypertensive activity of the KF6 in vivo. KF6 at 10 mg/kg and Captopril (CAP, a positive control) at 10 mg/kg were administrated to spontaneous hypertensive rats (SHRs) for 5 weeks. The results demonstrated that KF6 effectively lowered both diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and systolic blood pressure (SBP), and decreased ACE, AGT, ALD, and ANG II levels in the serum of SHRs. Furthermore, both cardiac and renal injury of SHRs were ameliorated by KF6 through inhibiting fibrosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Moreover, KF6 inhibited ACE‐ANG II‐AT1 axis while activating the ACE2‐Ang (1‐7)‐MAS1L pathway, two mutually antagonistic axes of RAAS, in the kidney and heart of SHRs. Additionally, KF6 improved intestinal microbiota composition, mainly by increasing the abundance of Prevotella and Phascolarctobacterium while decreasing the abundance of Alistipes, Clostridium_IV, Nosocomiicoccus, and Allobaculum. Overall, KF6 is a promising ACE inhibitory peptide for lowering blood pressure and mitigating hypertension‐related cardiac and renal damage. The protective effect of KF6 against hypertension is attributed to its ability to modulate RAAS and intestinal microbiota.
Algal lipids: A review on current status and future prospects in food processing
Authors: Ahmad Sameer , Singh Amit , Akram Wasim , Upadhyay Ashutosh , Abrol Ghan Shyam
Published: January 2025

The consumer demand for functional foods derived from natural sources has been enhanced due to health‐promoting effects. Algae are widely available globally as a sustainable source of proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates. Algal lipids are underexplored natural sources that exhibit several nutraceutical effects and applications in fortification, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Both macro‐ and microalgae are composed of high‐quality lipids. These latter involve polar lipids, nonpolar lipids, and essential fatty acids. Therefore, this review aimed to bring out knowledge on the chemistry of various lipids isolated and identified from micro‐ and macroalgae. Further, their extraction using traditional thermal (solid–liquid, and liquid–liquid) and advanced nonthermal (supercritical fluid, microwave‐, ultrasound‐, and enzyme‐assisted) techniques has been explored. Along with this, bioactivities of algal lipids have been discussed. This study explored algal lipids in advancing sustainable food processing technologies that contribute positively to environmental sustainability and global health, in line with United Nations Sustainable Development GroupUnited Nations Sustainable Development Group UNSDGs.
Equipping residential aged care facilities for acute respiratory illness: The Western Sydney experience of improving outbreak management
Authors: Watts Jenny , Jones Christian , Clark Penelope , Lindley Richard I. , Shaban Ramon Z. , Booy Robert , Bag Shopna K.
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Acute respiratory illnesses have a disproportionate impact on older people, and especially those living in residential aged care facilities where transmission risks are heightened. Additionally, staff in these facilities have been working under challenging conditions, often ill‐equipped in terms of both training and resources to successfully manage the outbreaks of these illnesses. This paper examines the actions of an Australian public health unit to improve influenza outbreak management in residential aged care facilities and critiques the outcomes through a contemporary lens.

Methods

A naturalistic case study using critical thematic analysis was used to study the Western Sydney Public Health Unit's work with the residential aged care facilities under their jurisdiction in the management of influenza outbreaks during 2014–2019.

Results

Key to the Public Health Unit's approach to improving outbreak management in residential aged care facilities was their sustained engagement with aged care stakeholders, activities to build outbreak management capacity in this setting, and an investment in research to inform ongoing action. This engagement was mutually beneficial, as the Public Health Unit and residential aged care facilities became more attuned to each other's needs and challenges. Supporting facility staff in difficult situations resulted in a timelier public health response and improved outbreak management.

Conclusions

In Australia, Public Health Units are important partners in the cumulative development of outbreak management capacity and responsiveness in the residential aged care setting; particularly considering the challenges posed by novel pathogens and in establishing an evidence base for best practice and future preparedness.
A recurrent loss‐of‐function variant in DRC1 causes non‐syndromic severe asthenozoospermia with favorable intracytoplasmic sperm injection and pregnancy outcomes
Authors: Tebbakh Célia , Barbotin Anne‐Laure , Martinez Guillaume , Boursier Angèle , Wehbe Zeina , Hammouda Asma , Thierry‐Mieg Nicolas , Arnoult Christophe , Mustapha Selima Fourati Ben , Zouari Raoudha , Ray Pierre F. , Kherraf Zine‐Eddine
Published: January 2025

Background

Asthenozoospermia, characterized by reduced sperm motility, is a common cause of male infertility. Multiple morphological abnormalities of the sperm flagella (MMAF) represent a severe and genetically heterogeneous form of asthenozoospermia. Over 50 genes have been associated, but approximately half of MMAF cases remain unexplained. DRC1, a gene involved in the nexin‐dynein regulatory complex (N‐DRC), has been linked to MMAF and primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD), often with significant variability in clinical presentation.

Objectives

His study aimed to identify novel pathogenic DRC1 variants in MMAF patients, assess their impact on sperm flagellar structure, and evaluate intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and pregnancy outcomes.

Materials and methods

A cohort of 196 non‐syndromic MMAF patients was analyzed using whole exome sequencing (WES). Functional validation of candidate variants included immunofluorescence to assess protein expression and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to identify ultrastructural abnormalities. Assisted reproductive therapy outcomes were also evaluated.

Results

WES identified a recurrent homozygous frameshift variant in DRC1 NM_145038.5: c.109dup; p.(Gln37ProfsTer30) in four patients (2%), all of North African origin, none of whom suffer from PCD‐related symptoms. The variant caused a complete absence of DRC1 protein in spermatozoa. TEM showed flagellar abnormalities, with 10% of axonemal sections revealing peripheral doublet dissociation, suggesting N‐DRC instability. ICSI resulted in a 68.5% fertilization rate, with three out of four couples successfully delivering healthy children.

Discussion and conclusion

The identification of a novel and recurrent pathogenic DRC1 variant broadens the mutation spectrum associated with MMAF. The absence of systemic PCD symptoms suggests that DRC1 deficiency may primarily affect spermatogenesis. Notably, the phenotypic spectrum might be influenced by the genetic background, varying across populations. Favorable ICSI outcomes, with a 68.5% fertilization rate and successful pregnancies in three out of four couples, highlight the effectiveness of assisted reproductive techniques for patients with this genetic defect.
From Land Reform to Landfare: Land Claims and the Welfare State in Kerala, India
Authors: Sudheesh R.C.
Published: January 2025

While large‐scale land reform may still be underway in many countries, other contexts have states responding to land claims through scattered land provision measures. This article puts forward “landfare” as a lens to capture such measures and unpacks its features in one location. The article first explains this term, outlining its location in and departure from the land reform scholarship. It next shows how Kerala, India, widely cited in the scholarship for its 20th century land reform, addresses the land claims of its Adivasi citizens in the 21st century through landfare. Through an exploration of Adivasi land claims and an examination of state responses in Kerala, the article argues that landfare can work through four key modes—obfuscation, withholding available land, projectisation, and welfare fix. Unlike the “land‐to‐the‐tiller” goals of 20th century land reform, 21st century landfare can be aimed at extinguishingland struggles.
Infliximab‐induced symmetrical drug‐related intertriginous and flexural exanthema (SDRIFE) in a patient with ulcerative colitis
Authors: Mokos Mislav , Bulat Vedrana , Likić Robert , Bosnić Filip , Gašparov Slavko
Published: January 2025

Symmetrical drug‐related intertriginous and flexural exanthema (SDRIFE) is a rare, symmetrical skin eruption triggered by various medications, predominantly beta‐lactam antibiotics. We report the case of a 69‐year‐old male with moderate‐to‐severe ulcerative colitis who developed SDRIFE following the seventh intravenous administration of infliximab. The patient presented with symmetrical, pruritic erythema in the cubital and popliteal fossae, groins, gluteal and retroauricular regions without systemic involvement. Skin biopsy showed mild exocytosis of T lymphocytes in the epidermis and dense superficial perivascular CD3+ and CD4+ infiltration, consistent with a type IVa hypersensitivity reaction. The patient responded well to a regimen of systemic antihistamines, topical corticosteroids and tacrolimus ointment, with complete regression of lesions within one week. Despite mild recurrences of SDRIFE after each infliximab administration, the therapy was not discontinued due to the mild nature of the reaction and favourable prognosis. The authors are not aware of previously published cases of type IVa SDRIFE induced by infliximab. Unlike previous reports of severe type IVc SDRIFE reactions requiring discontinuation of infliximab, our case highlights the predominance of CD4+ cells, which may explain the mild clinical course. Understanding the underlying immunologic mechanisms of infliximab‐induced SDRIFE could affect treatment decisions and prevent unnecessary discontinuation of effective therapies.
Impact of Social Disadvantage on Medical and Functional Severity in Children With Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Sukal‐Moulton Theresa , Msall Michael E. , Wroblewski Kristen , Safdar Sarah , Gaebler‐Spira Deborah J.
Published: January 2025

Background

Those with neurological disorders like cerebral palsy (CP) may experience an altered impact of social determinates of health on child functioning and well‐being. We investigated the relationship between relative social advantage and medical and functional outcomes in a large cohort of children, adolescents and young adults with CP (n = 1269, aged 2–84 years).

Methods

We extracted data from the Cerebral Palsy Research Registry and dichotomized a range of independent factors (income, ethnicity and race) into advantaged and disadvantaged/vulnerable and a range of medical and functional outcomes (gross motor, manual ability, behaviour, breathing, nutritional intake, hearing, seizures, language and vision) and computed odds ratios using logistic regression.

Results

We found significantly more gross and fine motor functional limitations for those with disadvantage in income (p = 0.002 and 0.006), marginalized race (p < 0.001 and 0.062) or ethnicity (p = 0.013 and 0.014). Ethnicity was further implicated in gestational age, whereas minority race played a role in more severe impairments in breathing, nutritional intake, language functioning and low birth weight status.

Conclusion

We found evidence of more health and functional challenges for children with CP and social disadvantage in our cohort. Additional access to equitable resources may improve these imbalances and should be prioritized.
An immunohistochemical study of thanatophoric dysplasia type 1 after fetus autopsy examination
Authors: Abba Deka Ioanna , Theotokis Paschalis , Manthou Maria Eleni , Mathioudi Angeliki , Athanasiou Evangelia , Meditskou Soultana
Published: January 2025

The current case report presents the postmortem examination findings of a 17‐week‐old female fetus displaying thanatophoric dysplasia type 1 (TD‐1) due to a known fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3) gene mutation. Gross and X‐ray examination revealed significant abnormalities, including skeletal malformations with prominent TD‐1 femur curvature. Microscopical evaluation indicated inadequate histological growth for the gestational age, with specific organ immaturity noted in multiple hematoxylin and eosin sections from internal organs, bone from epiphyses and diaphyses levels. Immunohistochemical analysis was conducted using specific markers, such as S100, CD34, CD117, glycophorin‐C, and myeloperoxidase, to identify various hematopoietic and mesenchymal cell types. Furthermore, this report underscores the often‐overlooked aspect of fetal hematopoiesis in cases diagnosed with TD‐1, shedding light on the development of hematopoietic cells and their markers in various tissues, with a particular emphasis on the investigation of bone marrow foci in areas with incipient or no apparent ossification. Immunohistochemical identification of hematopoiesis also served as an indirect way to identify areas of incipient or abnormal ossification.
Investigations for Suspected Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma of Unknown Primary (HNSCCUP): A National Cohort Study
Authors: Hardman John C. , Constable James , Williamson Andrew , Dobbs Sian , Hogan Christopher , Hulse Kate , Khosla Shivun , Milinis Kristijonas , Tudor‐Green Ben , Paleri Vinidh ,   INTEGRATE (The UK ENT Trainee Research Network)
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma from unknown primary (HNSCCUP) is a rare and challenging condition. This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic pathways of suspected HNSCCUP patients in the United Kingdom.

Methods

A retrospective observational cohort study was conducted, over 5 years from January 2015, in UK Head and Neck centres of consecutive adults undergoing 18F‐Fluorodeoxyglucose‐PET‐CT (PET‐CT) within 3 months of diagnosis with metastatic cervical squamous cell carcinoma. Patients with no primary site on examination and no previous head and neck cancer were eligible.

Results

Data for 965 patients were received from 57 centres; 68.5% were HPV‐related disease. Three investigation cycles were observed: ultrasound with biopsy, cross‐sectional imaging (MRI and/or CT) and PET‐CT, at median times of 17, 29.5 and 46 days from referral. No primary was identified on PET‐CT in 49.8% (n = 478/960). Diagnostic tonsillectomy was performed in 58.2% (n = 278/478) and tongue base mucosectomy (TBM) in 21.7% (n = 104/479). Ipsilateral tonsillectomy carried the highest diagnostic yield (18.7%, n = 52/278), followed by TBM (15.4%, n = 16/104). Contralateral tonsillectomy, performed in 49.0% (n = 234/478), carried the lowest yield (0.9%, n = 2/234). PET‐CT with concurrent MRI was associated with higher primary site detection than PET‐CT with concurrent CT (p = 0.003). A minority of patients undergoing treatment with curative intent received first‐definitive‐treatment within 62 days of referral (15.2%, n = 77/505, median 92 days, IQR: 71–117).

Conclusions

Most patients experienced a protracted diagnostic pathway and waited over 3 months for definitive treatment. Earlier PET‐CT with concurrent MRI may expedite diagnosis. TBM appears more productive than contralateral tonsillectomy for primary site detection.
Co‐Benefits From Species‐Level Conservation Contribute to Multilateral Environmental Agreement Targets
Authors: de Wit Luz A. , Akre Karin L. , O'Mara M. Teague , Flanders Jon , Nakamoto Michael , Frick Winifred F.
Published: January 2025

Conservation investments do not operate within a zero‐sum paradigm, but instead provide opportunities for co‐benefits across sustainable development and conservation goals. Recognizing the interconnectedness of conservation efforts within socioenvironmental systems can amplify support for conservation actions, ultimately creating additional co‐benefits across the social, ecological, and economic sectors. As an ecologically diverse taxonomic group with broad conservation needs, we explore how conserving bats contributes to both biodiversity and society's economic and social needs. We align bat conservation goals with Global Biodiversity Framework targets and explore their contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The benefits of targeted bat conservation actions extend beyond species‐level conservation goals and the preservation of bat‐derived ecosystem services, encompassing broader contributions to global sustainability goals. Our findings underscore the potential for conservation investments to generate positive outcomes across multiple sectors, fostering sustainability and resilience within socioenvironmental systems.
The influence of preoperative fat distribution on post‐bariatric surgery body mass index and body weight loss
Authors: Lu Shi‐jing , Wang Yan‐yun , Zhang Tao‐tao , Zhang Xiang‐wen , Liu Si‐bo , Miao Xiu‐qin , Zhao Guo‐hua , Wang Yong , Chen Hai‐long
Published: January 2025

Background

The body weight following bariatric surgery is a primary concern for both healthcare professionals and surgical candidates. However, it remains unclear whether variations in preoperative fat distribution influence weight loss outcomes.

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of abdominal fat distribution on postoperative weight loss and body mass index (BMI) reduction, and to clarify the role of different fat depots in weight loss outcomes.

Methods

Preoperative data from patients with overweight or obesity, along with their weight records at 1, 2 and 5 years following surgery, were retrospectively collected. Multiple levels of abdominal fat areas were measured using computerized tomography imaging. Statistical analyses included Pearson's correlation coefficients, multiple linear regressions, ridge regressions, decision tree regressions and paired t tests to evaluate the associations and influences.

Results

A total of 139 patients were initially included. The statistical analysis results indicated that umbilical subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) was an independent factor influencing weight and BMI loss at the 1‐year follow‐up (n = 67, p < 0.01). Furthermore, umbilical SAT demonstrated significant correlations with sustained BMI reduction over the long term.

Conclusion

Umbilical SAT is a significant factor in postoperative weight and BMI loss. Patients with greater SAT may experience more substantial weight and BMI reductions following surgery, offering new insights into personalized weight loss strategies and alternative approaches for assisted weight loss.
Resting State Functional Connectivity of the Default Mode Network During Opioid Use and Cessation in Treatment‐Seeking Persons
Authors: Dandurand Jade , Stein Michael , Surprenant Britni , Kim Somin , Sarles‐Whittlesey Heidi , Grimone Kristin , Herman Debra , Abrantes Ana M. , Sweet Lawrence H.
Published: January 2025

Resting‐state functional connectivity analyses have been used to examine synchrony in neural networks in substance use disorders (SUDs), with the default mode network (DMN) one of the most studied. Prior research has generally found less DMN synchrony during use and greater synchrony during cessation, although little research has utilized this method with opioid use. This study examined resting brain activity in treatment‐seeking persons who use opioids at two points—when using opioids and when opioid‐free—to determine whether the DMN exhibits different levels of connectivity during opioid use and cessation and whether differences in connectivity predict subsequent relapse. The sample included 11 participants who met DSM‐5 criteria for opioid use disorder and initiated buprenorphine treatment following fMRI scans that were approximately 3 days apart. Results showed greater functional connectivity in the DMN and the rIFG of the salience network (SN) when participants were abstaining than when actively using opioids. These changes in connectivity predicted 76.2% of the variance in withdrawal symptom severity, with the DMN nodes accounting for an additional 30.9%. Findings warrant further longitudinal exploration of the role of DMN connectivity and its interactions with other networks in relation to abstinence and withdrawal status and examination of its utility as a prognostic marker of cessation or relapse.
Soil Health and Challenges to Sustainable Soil Management in Denmark: Stakeholder Perceptions
Authors: Pulido‐Moncada Mansonia , Thorsøe Martin Hvarregaard , Miranda‐Vélez Jorge F. , Graversgaard Morten , Munkholm Lars J.
Published: January 2025

Maintaining soil health is essential to ensuring an adequate food supply and preserving the environment. Insights from multiple stakeholder inquiries can provide a more nuanced understanding of conditions for soil health to support the adoption of sustainable soil management practices to meet national and regional goals. This article aimed to gather insights from stakeholders' perceptions of soil health and the state of soil knowledge in Denmark. Seven stakeholder inquiries, collected through a series of recent European soil research activities, were synthesised to identify perceptions of soil health, concerns about soil challenges and needs for harmonising production and use of knowledge related to sustainable soil management. Each inquiry was analysed individually, and common themes were discussed across topics. The data showed that the ecosystem service framework related to soil health was not evenly familiar across stakeholder categories. Identified concerns for soil health included climate change effects, knowledge transfer, economic pressure/risk, and soil challenges. The top ‘priority’ soil challenges identified were improving soil organic matter/peat soil, avoiding soil compaction and improving nutrient retention/use efficiency. Soil knowledge gaps related to soil challenges included: multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary long‐term experiments, site‐specific measures, science–policy–stakeholder interactions and knowledge feasibility at the farm level. Identified barriers preventing wider adoption of sustainable management practices included farm applicability of practices, farmers' engagement, knowledge sharing and lack of regulations for challenges such as soil compaction. Farmers were also concerned about the time and effort required to learn new practices, especially as it relates to their work/life balance and the challenge of implementing sustainable practices on commercial farms while ensuring profitability. These concerns might partially arise from knowledge gaps between stakeholder categories. Raising awareness of sustainable practices and addressing current and future risks such as pests and weather extremes are crucial for policy and stakeholder engagement.
Riluzole is associated with reduced risk of heart failure
Authors: Kim Kibum , Kim Sodam , Katana Margaret , Terentyev Dmitry , Radwański Przemysław B. , Munger Mark A.
Published: January 2025

Background

Reduction of intracellular Na+ accumulation through late Na+ current inhibition has been recognized as a target for cardiac Ca2+ handling which underlies myocardial contractility and relaxation in heart failure (HF). Riluzole, an Na+ channel blocker with enhancement of Ca2+‐activated K+ channel function, used for management of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), is effective in suppressing Ca2+ leak and therefore may improve cardiac function.

Objectives

The study aim was to investigate whether riluzole lowers HF incidence.

Methods

Rates of HF incident were compared using a commercial insurance and Medicare supplement claims databases. Patients with a filled riluzole prescription (treatment) between 06/2009 and 12/2019 were compared to those with no‐riluzole (control). We excluded HF patients during the 180‐day baseline period. Study endpoint was the first HF diagnosis from the index riluzole prescription or ALS diagnosis. HF onset was compared between the propensity score matched treatment and control cohorts.

Results

The matched cohort consisted of 4060 pairs of riluzole/control patients. The 24‐month cumulative incidence of HF onset for riluzole versus control patients was 4.96% versus 7.27%, calculating hazard ratio (HR) [95% CI, p‐value] of 0.55 [0.40–0.76, p < 0.01]. The HR estimates favoring riluzole over the ALS control were consistent across the 3 months to 2‐year follow‐up. The clinically and statistically significant effect on HF onset was driven by the lower rate of HFrEF with the 2‐year HR [95% CI] of 0.46 [0.21–0.99].

Conclusions

Riluzole is associated with a lower rate of HF onset, suggesting a potential prevention strategy for early management.
Effect of changing the internal structure on the mechanical properties of three‐dimensional‐printed custom tray material: An in vitro study
Authors: Erdem Cafer Anıl , Çelik Öge Selin , Ekren Orhun
Published: January 2025

The main challenges to the widespread clinical application of three‐dimensional (3D)‐printed customized trays include cost and time limitations. This study examined how changing the internal structure of 3D‐printed materials used for customized trays affects flexural strength (FS), flexural modulus (FM), manufacturing time, and material weight. Specimens (64 × 10 × 3.3 mm) were printed using a light‐sensitive liquid resin. The internal structures of control specimens were completely filled, whereas the internal structures of test groups comprised vertical bars spaced 1 mm (Test 1) or 2 mm (Test 2) apart. Specimens were weighed and then subjected to a three‐point bending test to evaluate their FS and FM. Data were analyzed using one‐way ANOVA and Tukey's test, with Weibull analysis applied to FS values. Control specimens had the highest FS (106 ± 4 MPa), while Test 2 specimens demonstrated the highest FM (6101 ± 1407 MPa). No significant differences were found between Test 1 and Test 2 specimens in FS or FM. Test 2 specimens had the lowest mean weight (1440 ± 42 mg). Manufacturing times were 80 min for control and Test 1 specimens and 60 min for Test 2 specimens. Including spaces in the internal structure of 3D‐printed custom tray material saves material and manufacturing time while maintaining mechanical properties.
Benefits and burdens of daily sacrifices and commitment in same‐ and different‐gender couples: Explorations of proximity and direction of effects
Authors: Totenhagen Casey J. , Curran Melissa A. , Randall Ashley K.
Published: January 2025

Research and theory document links between sacrifices and commitment in couples, yet the direction of effects remains unclear. Whereas interdependence theorists suggest that sacrifices help couples to build commitment, other scholars have suggested that being committed leads partners to sacrifice for each other. Nearly all research in this area has focused on men and women in different‐gender relationships with each other. We contribute to this literature by using dyadic daily diary data to examine associations between sacrifices and commitment as they unfold in a sample of same‐ (n = 85 couples; 170 individuals) and different‐gender (n = 100 couples; 200 individuals) couples. We use concurrent and lagged models to examine (a) proximity of effects (same day vs. carrying over to next day) and (b) direction of effects (i.e., do sacrifices predict changes in commitment, and/or vice versa). Results showed that effects were largely proximal—only one significant lagged effect emerged—and these were specific to actor effects. Furthermore, effects were bidirectional, and different patterns emerged for same‐ and different‐gender couples. For same‐gender couples, sacrifices and commitment were negatively associated. For different‐gender couples, on days they reported performing more sacrifices they reported higher commitment, but when they reported higher commitment, they reported doing fewer sacrifices the following day. Results highlight the importance of examining diverse couples specific to questions of proximity and direction of effects for sacrifices and commitment.
Raising Their Voices Against Patriarchy: The Dynamic Use of Women's Leadership Styles for Progressing Gender Equality in Unions
Authors: Cornejo‐Abarca Paula , Ugarte Sebastian M. , Martin‐Caballero Angel
Published: January 2025

This study delves into the nuances of women's leadership skills and tactics within Chilean unions, assessing their progress in gender equality bargaining following the 2017 quota reform for women union leaders. Focusing on banking, retail, and mining industries, it tackles internal and external equality dimensions, challenged by an evident power asymmetry between men and women and the foundations of a patriarchal system. Through qualitative, semi‐structured interviews with unionist women and experts, the research unveils the dynamic and instrumental use of leadership styles (“heroic” and “post‐heroic”) employed by women to navigate these challenges. Activism, empowerment, knowledge acquisition, confrontation, and collaboration emerge as crucial components. The paper advocates for a holistic approach beyond quotas, emphasizing the need for sustained gender progress in Chilean unions. The comparative analysis enriches academic discourse, amplifying diverse women's leadership experiences and their impactful roles in challenging gender injustices and reshaping organizational culture.
Small whiteface (Leucorrhinia dubia: Odonata) reintroduction update highlights the importance of long‐term monitoring and regular habitat management
Authors: Šigutová Hana , Bílková Eva , Ožana Stanislav , Dolný Aleš
Published: January 2025

Freshwater insects, including odonates, have rarely been the target of reintroduction programmes. Furthermore, due to the scarcity of post‐release monitoring, information on factors affecting the long‐term survival of reintroduced populations is lacking.

In 2001, the threatened dragonfly Leucorrhinia dubia (Odonata: Libellulidae) was reintroduced into the peatbog in Czechia, and the population had been monitored for fifteen years. The last survey of its demography was conducted in 2017. The present study investigates the current condition of that population by combining exuvial sampling with the capture‐mark‐recapture method for adults. We also focused on the physical features of the habitat and the ability of the population to colonise newly created habitat patches.

The current population size is stable (105 exuviae and 96 adults) and comparable to previous monitoring. The acidic bog pools that had been hosting the population since its establishment have undergone succession and disappeared. The remaining single original pool is supporting a considerable proportion of the population (68.6%). In 2016, new pools were created. These alkaline pools with a vegetation composition different from the original pool have been colonised by L. dubia but also predatory newts. Given that their attractiveness to the species is comparable to the original pool, but their reproductive outcome is poorer, the new pools may act as ecological traps.

Reintroductions can be effective in preserving threatened odonates. Continuous monitoring and site management, considering the impact of interventions on the entire community, is essential to sustain the reintroduced population over the long term.