bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic resource management and slack resources
Authors: Agustí María A. , Aguilar-Caro Rocio , Galán José Luis , Acedo Francisco J.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Organisational slack has been widely considered in strategic management, but there is a gap in understanding the process of accumulation and application of slack resources. From a dynamic perspective and over an extended period of time, this paper analyses the management of slack resources and evaluates whether the different behaviours, in relation to the accumulation and consumption of slack resources, have any effect on performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The resource-based view and the dynamic extension of this theory, i.e. resource management and resource orchestration, were analysed in order to evaluate how slack resources can be managed and generate value. Assuming a configurational approach, the analysis was structured into two stages to answer the proposed hypothesis. The first stage studied whether there were different patterns of management of slack resources over time using the DistatisR package. The second stage evaluated which behaviours had the greatest impact in terms of profitability by using a dynamic panel data regression.

Findings

Three different types of slack resource management were found in companies: efficient, effective and erratic. Different types do not have the same impact on performance.

Originality/value

The dynamic management of slack resources has scarcely been considered, even during periods of crisis and economic expansion. This research advances the understanding of how firms transform slack resources into performance from a dynamic perspective.
Corporate social responsibility communication after COVID-19: what values for practical implementation of the SDGs?
Authors: Tebessi Sana , Ben Cheikh Amal , Dali Mariem
Published: June 2024

Purpose

In line with the growing trend of companies focusing on achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs), this research paper aims to propose a classification of values of socially responsible companies aligned with the SDGs that these companies could fulfill.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors’ carried out a qualitative semiotic analysis of four companies as part of the corporate environmental communication initiative to focus on the corporate values conveyed in the messages. Using thematic analysis, the authors’ identified the SDGs achieved by their actions. By coding the values and the SDGs, the authors’ performed a top-down hierarchical classification, linking the value system to the SDGs.

Findings

This research unveils various relationships between corporate communication values and the practical implementation of specific SDGs. This paper sheds light on the central role of utilitarian values in achieving SDGs 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 13 and highlights the importance of existential values in reaching SDGs 8, 9, 10, 12, 11 and 17. Conversely, no utilitarian values contribute to the realization of SDGs 7, 8, 11, 13 and 17, while no existential values enable the achievement of SDGs 7, 12, 13 and 17.

Originality/value

This research makes a valuable contribution to the achievement of the SDGs by adopting a streamlined approach that aligns with specific company values. The classification of values by SDG provides an in-depth understanding of commitments toward these goals and promotes more coherent integration into corporate culture and business practices. This approach ensures that sustainable progress is aligned with the values communicated in their long-term strategy, enabling businesses to effectively address crises.
Framing knowledge structure of customer engagement: a multimethod review
Authors: Roopak Roopendra , Chakrabarti Somnath
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to perform the bibliometric analysis of the customer engagement (CE) literature, highlights the major research themes and classifies the subdomains. The study also identifies antecedents and consequences, as well as dimension evolution, and suggests future research directions.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a comprehensive bibliometric approach using Scopus data from 2002 to January 2024. Advanced analytical techniques, including bibliometric and cocitation analysis using R and bibexcel, were used. In addition, machine learning (ML)-based Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) was used to extract latent themes.

Findings

This study reveals the domain’s past trend and present research scenario. The thematic analysis of CE is classified into three phases. Document cocitation analysis provided four broad clusters: conceptualization and operationalization, value creation through engagement, building relationships with brands and engagement-social media interface. The antecedents and consequences are categorized and presented along with the evolution of the multidimensional nature of CE.

Originality/value

This study adds to the literature in two key ways. First, the entire scholarly production has been compiled into one frame. Second, multiple methods were used to unravel citation, cocitation and textual data. Furthermore, ML-based LDA was used to extract latent themes from clusters and future research directions were proposed.
Education and gender (in)equality in wage employment in sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Oudanou Damghane , Ouedraogo Idrissa , Ondoa Henri Atangana
Published: June 2024

We analyse the effect of education on gender parity in wage employment in sub‐Saharan African countries. The data used cover a panel of 43 countries over the period 2000–2019. The two‐stage least squares method is used. The results show that secondary and tertiary education and gender parity in education improve gender equality in wage employment. Therefore, to reduce gender inequality in wage employment, African countries should promote gender equality, particularly in secondary and tertiary education, by adopting policies to alleviate the conditions and costs of schooling for girls.
The roots and routes of public health institutes in Scandinavia
Authors: Elvbakken Kari‐Tove , Veggeland Frode
Published: June 2024

This article aims to increase the knowledge of the roles and functions of public health institutes (PHIs) by exploring and comparing the Scandinavian PHIs, their roots, and developments over time. The research questions are the following: What was the history behind these public institutions? How have they changed over time? Have they followed divergent or parallel paths of change? How, if at all, have they been influenced by public sector reforms? Comparing the three Scandinavian countries based on an institutionalist approach, the article seeks to increase the understanding of the role of PHIs in governing public health. The article is based on documents from parliaments and governments from the public health institutes, supplemented by institution narratives and relevant public health and public administration literature. The Scandinavian PHIs have common roots from the early 1900s, have followed different routes, and have different institutional characteristics and different roles as public health institutions. However, after more than 100 years, the Scandinavian PHIs belong to the international PHI organization. They are responsible for knowledge dissemination, surveillance, and preparedness for the handling of epidemics and pandemics. The article argues for more comparative research on institutions related to public health authorities, such as the PHIs.
Scandinavian capital cities as EU lobbyists: Strategies and lobby channels
Authors: Grønnestad Solveig
Published: June 2024

Cities have little formalized access to the European Union (EU) system, yet research indicates that cities are forming more direct relations with actors outside national borders, including EU institutions. Based on 23 interviews on the EU activities of Copenhagen, Oslo and Stockholm, this article investigates whether the Scandinavian capital cities engage in lobbying towards the EU, their choice of lobby channel and the justification for this choice. The article finds that lobbying the EU is important for all three cities, but that they value different channels. The article has three contributions: First, to contribute to the latest broadening of the application of the multilevel governance perspective by studying the role of cities in EU lobbying; second, to add to the literature on EU lobbying by studying the role of networks and associations for cities lobbying the EU; and third, the article argues that extra‐state channels are especially important for cities in non‐EU countries, the so‐called, “third country actors.”
Age and sex effects on histological features and in vitro culturing of Antillean manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus, Linnaeus 1758) dermis
Authors: Moura Yasmin B. F. , Aquino Leonardo V. C. , Nascimento Matheus B. , Oliveira Radan E. M. , Attademo Fernanda L. N. , Luna Fábia O. , Pereira Alexsandra F.
Published: June 2024

The biobanks from dermal biopsies represent an interesting strategy for biodiversity conservation. Nevertheless, the morphological and cellular patterns of the dermis can be influenced by the age and sex of the individual. Therefore, evaluating these factors is interesting for forming biobanks of Antillean manatees. These animals, representatives of marine fauna, have had their population reduced, and biobanks are essential for their conservation. Then, we evaluated the effects of age (3.5 years vs. 3.6–16 years vs. 23.6 years) and sex (males vs. females) on morphological and cellular parameters using histological and in vitro culture techniques. Regardless of age, no differences were observed for dermal thickness, collagen fibres, tissue proliferative activity and viable cell recovery. Nonetheless, fibroblast reduction was observed in groups aged 23.6 years compared to other animals (p < 0.05). Additionally, cells from animals aged 3.6–16 years showed more significant mitochondrial damage than the other groups (p < 0.05). Regardless of sex, no differences were observed for dermal thickness, collagen fibres, tissue proliferative activity and viable cell recovery; however, females had fewer fibroblasts than males (p < 0.05). Cells from females showed lower mitochondrial damage when compared to cells from males. In summary, although age and sex do not influence dermal thickness and cell recovery, variations in the number of fibroblasts and mitochondrial characteristics were observed among the groups. These differences may be significant for understanding the dermis aspects to be correlated to biobank systems.
Australasian recurrent pregnancy loss clinical management guideline 2024, part II
Authors: SUKER Adriana , LI Ying , ROBSON Danielle , MARREN Anthony ,   the Australasian CREI (Certificate of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility) Consensus Expert Panel on Trial Evidence (ACCEPT) Group
Published: June 2024

Part II of the Australasian guideline for the investigation and management of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) provides evidence‐based guidance on the management of RPL provided. The implications of inherited and acquired thrombophilia with respect to RPL and suggestions for clinical management are provided. Autoimmune factors, including human leukocyte antigen, cytokines, antinuclear antibodies and coeliac antibodies, and guidance for management are discussed. Infective, inflammatory and endometrial causes of RPL are discussed in detail. Environmental and lifestyle factors, male factor and unexplained causes are outlined. Levels of evidence and grades of consensus are provided for all evidence‐based statements.
Inconsequential setback: The elusive impact of the Afghanistan withdrawal on Chinese assessment of US credibility
Authors: Lim Yves‐Heng , Cottam Jon
Published: June 2024

On August 31, 2021, 20 years after the beginning of Operation Enduring Freedom, President Biden announced the completion of the United States (US) withdrawal from Afghanistan. The difficult conditions of the withdrawal raised major questions about US credibility, as images from Kabul were broadcasted around the world. Pundits, scholars, and former decision makers warned that reputational damages incurred by Washington could lead Chinese decision makers to reassess the credibility of US commitments in the Indo‐Pacific. Few studies have, however, examined how China interpreted the Afghanistan withdrawal. This article proposes to fill this gap. It argues that though Chinese observers did see the Afghanistan withdrawal as caused by a lack of US resolve, this perceived lack of resolve did not translate into general reputational costs for the United States and, consequently, calculations made by Chinese observers about US credibility in the Indo‐Pacific region remain largely unimpacted by the Afghanistan setback.
One policy but different interpretations: A case of agricultural policy implementation in Indonesia
Authors: Yamin Muhammad , Tafarini Meitry F. , Putri Nurilla Elysa , Kholik Abdul , Andelia Siti R.
Published: June 2024

The Indonesian governments developed the Upsus Pajale policy to achieve a goal and solve the problem of food self‐sufficiency. Rice, corn, and soybean were the main commodities in the plan of Upsus Pajale Policy implementation. UPSUS Pajale improve rice, corn, and soybean production for food self‐sufficiency. This study examined UPSUS Pajale policy implementation at the province, district, subdistrict, and farmer levels. This study examined rice growing in Banyuasin's tidal lowlands, Ogan Komering Ilir's swamplands, and East Ogan Komering Ulu's irrigated rice fields. The research method used a combination model of quantitative and qualitative (mixed method). Sampling data used purposive sampling. NVivo 12 software examined provincial, district, subdistrict, farmer interviews, and group discussions. Results affected typology management constraints differently. Production input costs were the most common issue. This study found that policy was differently implemented at various levels. It would be impacted to the success of the policy.
Categorization of second language accents by bilingual and multilingual listeners
Authors: Georgiou Georgios P.
Published: June 2024

This study examines how listeners categorize second language (L2) accents and how their linguistic background affects this categorization. Ninety‐eight adult bilingual and multilingual Greek listeners categorized accents in a familiar (British English)–unfamiliar (Australian English) L2 accent condition. Data were collected through an online survey and analysed using binomial mixed‐effects models and signal detection analysis. The results demonstrated that both bilinguals and multilinguals exhibited low performance in the task, potentially due to their decreased familiarity with the Australian English accent and the fact that the two accents are phonetically similar. However, despite both groups' low performance, multilinguals outperformed bilinguals in accent categorization accuracy. This advantage could be attributed to a combination of cognitive and social dynamics. Results expand upon prior research, indicating that exposure to accent variation enhances listeners' abilities to categorize non‐native accents. The study provides important theoretical implications for the perception of accents and practical insights into foreign language learning and multilingual communication.
The correlation of asparaginase enzyme activity levels after PEG‐asparaginase administration with clinical characteristics and adverse effects in Chinese paediatric patients with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
Authors: Chen Cai , Li Jian , Chen Yiqiao , Gao Qinli , Li Nainong , Le Shaohua
Published: June 2024

Studies on asparaginase enzyme activity (AEA) monitoring in Chinese patients receiving PEG‐asparaginase remain limited. We monitored AEA in paediatric patients diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) and treated according to the Chinese Children's Cancer Group study protocols, CCCG‐ALL‐2015/CCCG‐ALL‐2020 protocols. We measured the AEA at days 7 ± 1 and 14 ± 1 and analysed their association with patient characteristics and PEG‐asparaginase‐related adverse effects (AEs). We measured 2147 samples from 329 patients. Mean AEA levels (interquartile range) were 931 iu/L (654–1174 iu/L) at day 7 ± 1 and 664 iu/L (463–860 iu/L) at day 14 ± 1. The AEA levels were higher in younger children and increased with the cumulative dose numbers. PEG‐asparaginase inactivation rate was 19.1%, and the silent inactivation (SI) rate was 12.5%. Nine patients were identified with allergic‐like reactions. Hypofibrinogenaemia, hypertriglyceridaemia, pancreatitis and thrombosis were associated with older age, whereas hypoglycaemia was associated with younger age. The risk of hypertriglyceridaemia and hypoglycaemia increased with cumulative dose numbers of PEG‐asparaginase. Except for hypofibrinogenaemia, elevated AEA levels did not increase the risk of PEG‐asparaginase‐related AEs. Drug monitoring can be utilized as guidance for treatment decision‐making. Individualizing asparaginase doses do not reduce toxicities. The treatment target of PEG‐asparaginase remains to achieve sustained and adequate activity.
Outcomes in non‐small cell lung cancer with uncommon epidermal growth factor receptor L858 substitutions under first‐line epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors: A large real‐world cohort study
Authors: Shao Youyou , Zhang Jingying , Feng Zhi , Wu Wei , Zhao Xiaotian , Zhu Minyi , Xiao Yao , Pang Jiaohui , Zhu Junfei , Qu Hao , Yuan Minchi , Xia Guojie , Liu Meng , Li Hengyuan
Published: June 2024

Atypical L858R or other L858X mutations in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene, beyond the classical EGFRL858R mutation caused by c.2573 T > G, have been identified in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), yet their genomic features and survival benefits with EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) treatment have not been fully explored. We retrospectively enrolled 489 NSCLC patients with baseline tumor tissue/plasma samples carrying uncommon EGFRL858R (N = 124), EGFRL858Q/M (N = 17), or classical EGFRL858R mutations (N = 348). The comparison of molecular features was performed using treatment‐naïve tumor tissues. Survival benefits and resistance mechanisms of first‐line EGFR TKI treatment were studied in an advanced disease subcohort. NSCLCs harboring uncommon EGFRL858R had lower TP53 mutation prevalence (p = 0.04) and chromosome instability scores (p = 0.02) than those with classical EGFRL858R. Concomitant EGFRL861Q mutations were enriched in NSCLCs with EGFRL858Q/M (p < 0.01), with cooccurrence in those carrying EGFRL858M. Patients with uncommon EGFRL858R experienced improved progression‐free survival (PFS) compared to those with classical EGFRL858R (median: 13.0 vs. 10.0 months, hazard ratio [HR]: 0.57, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.41–0.80). The association remained significant when adjusting for sex, age, histological subtype, TKI category, and anti‐vascular therapy (HR: 0.55, 95% CI: 0.39–0.77). Furthermore, EGFRL858Q/M patients showed enhanced first‐line PFS (vs. classical EGFRL858R, HR: 0.26, 95% CI: 0.10–0.67), potentially benefiting more from afatinib. Additionally, NSCLCs with uncommon EGFRL858R and classical EGFRL858R had similar resistance profiles to EGFR TKIs. In conclusion, NSCLCs carrying atypical EGFR L858 aberrations, which had fewer TP53 mutations and higher chromosome stability, exhibited improved PFS under first‐line EGFR TKIs than those with the classical EGFRL858R.
Refugee and asylum‐seeker children and health problems in the city of Duzce, Türkiye
Authors: Cakmak Hatice Mine , Kocabay Kenan , Temizkan Ramazan Cahit , Turay Sevim , Ozde Sukriye , Kurt Fatih , Sav Nadide Melike , Erguven Muferet , Coşkun Emel
Published: June 2024

Introduction

This study examines the health problems and healthcare needs of refugee and asylum‐seeker children and aims to develop strategies for improvement.

Methods

Based on quantitative data from 448 refugee and asylum‐seeker children and 222 non‐refugee local children, this study was conducted at Düzce University, Department of Paediatrics, between 2010 and 2021. The refugee children originated from three countries: Iraq (n = 304), Syria (n = 101) and Afghanistan (n = 43). The data were analysed using the SPSS data analysis program. Ethical clearance was obtained from the Ethics Committee of Düzce Üniversity.

Results

The results suggest that refugee and asylum‐seeker children have significantly higher rates of acute illness or infection, malnutrition (p < 0.001) and anaemia (p < 0.001) than local children as a result of living in overcrowded families (p = 0.017) and unhealthy conditions. Adolescent pregnancy (p = 0.049) emerges as an important social problem as a result of child marriage among refugee children, mostly in the form of consanguineous marriages (p < 0.001). The rate of having at least two adolescent pregnancies (under 18) was highest among Syrian refugee girls (p = 0.01). Although refugee and asylum‐seeker children have higher rates of health insurance (between 74% and 95%), they have lower rates of insurance compared to local children. This research also compares the data from three nationalities, including Syria, Afghanistan and Iraq children; Iraqi and Afghan children under the international protection (IP) system with limited social support and rights had worse health conditions compared to other groups. Although Iraqi children had the highest rates of health insurance on admission (p < 0.001), they also had higher rates of chronic diseases (p = 0.001), infections (p = 0.004), allergic rhinitis (p = 0.001) and malnutrition (p < 0.001). The youngest age of admission (p = 0.006) and the shortest length of stay (p = 0.004) were for Afghan children who also had higher rates of upper respiratory infections (p = 0.021).

Conclusions

This study highlights the urgent need for improved screening programmes and the importance of collaborative efforts to address the specific health needs of these populations. Addressing the health status of child refugees is a complex and multifaceted task that requires the active participation of healthcare professionals, policymakers and researchers, each of whom has a crucial role to play.
Accuracy of immediately placed implants using surgical guides from different 3‐dimensional printers: An in vitro study
Authors: Pitman Jeremy , Cosyn Jan , Christiaens Véronique , Younes Faris , de Bruyckere Thomas , Vervaeke Stijn , Glibert Maarten
Published: June 2024

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of 3‐dimensional (3D)‐printed surgical guides for fully guided immediate implants from different manufacturers.

Methods

Eighteen 3D printed fully guided surgical guides (split into 3 groups [n = 6] according to their manufacturer: Company, Desktop, or Lab), were used to place 72 implants (n = 24) in identical maxillary models. After placement, the mean global, angular, mesiodistal, buccopalatal, and vertical deviation at the platform and apex of the placed implants, relative to their preoperatively planned positions, was calculated.

Results

Significant differences in global apex deviation, angular deviation, mesiodistal apex deviation, and vertical platform and apex deviation were found between the Lab and Desktop groups (p ≤ 0.007). Significant differences in mesiodistal platform and apex deviation and buccopalatal apex deviation were also found between the Company and Desktop groups (p ≤ 0.005). Finally, significant differences in buccopalatal apex deviation, and vertical platform and apex deviation were found between the Company and Lab groups (p ≤ 0.003). Mean differences between guide groups across all parameters never exceeded 0.5 mm or 1°.

Conclusions

The choice of 3D printer has a significant effect on the accuracy of fully guided immediate implants. However, the clinical relevance of these differences may be considered limited.
Impact of metabolic and bariatric surgery on weight loss and insulin requirements in type 1 and insulin‐treated type 2 diabetes
Authors: Abi Mosleh Kamal , Salameh Yara , Ghusn Wissam , Jawhar Noura , Mundi Manpreet S. , Collazo‐Clavell Maria L. , Kendrick Michael L. , Ghanem Omar M.
Published: June 2024

Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (MBS) is effective in improving metabolic outcomes and reducing weight in patients with obesity and diabetes, with less explored benefits in type 1 diabetes (T1D). This study aimed to evaluate the impact of MBS on weight loss and insulin requirements in T1D patients compared to insulin‐treated type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients over a 5‐year period. This retrospective analysis included patients who underwent primary sleeve gastrectomy (SG) or Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (RYGB) with a confirmed preoperative diagnosis of either T1D or insulin‐treated T2D. Primary endpoints focusing on weight loss and secondary outcomes assessing changes in insulin dosage and glycemic control. After 5 years, weight loss was similar across groups, with total weight loss at 14.2% for T1D and 17.6% for insulin‐treated T2D in SG, and 22.6% for T1D vs. 26.8% for insulin‐treated T2D in RYGB. Additionally, there was a significant reduction in median daily insulin doses from 140.5 units at baseline to 77.5 units at 1 year postoperatively, sustained at 90 units at 5 years. The differential impact of MBS procedure was also highlighted, where RYGB patients showed a more pronounced and enduring decrease in insulin requirements compared to SG.
Association of overweight/obesity and overweight/obesity‐related metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease in young adults with coronary artery calcification later in life
Authors: Wang Jia‐Jie , Zheng Zhichao , Zhang Ying
Published: June 2024

Aim

The association of overweight/obesity and metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in young adulthood with subclinical atherosclerosis [coronary artery calcification (CAC) and abdominal aortic calcification (AAC)] by middle age is unknown.

Method

In total, 2274 participants aged 28‐39 years from the coronary artery risk development in young adults study at year 10 (1995‐1996) who were re‐examined 15 years later were included. CAC and AAC were measured at year 25 using computed tomography. We examined the utility of three young adult phenotypes (lean group; overweight/obese group; overweight/obese MASLD group) at year 10 in predicting CAC or AAC by middle age. Modified Poisson regression was used to estimate the association between groups and CAC, and AAC. Independent determinates of CAC and AAC were determined with linear regression models.

Results

Compared with individuals categorized as lean in young adulthood, the relative risk for CAC by middle age was 1.09 (95% confidence interval: 0.93‐1.28) for those with overweight/obesity and 1.32 (95% confidence interval: 1.08‐1.61) for those with overweight/obesity‐related MASLD. For AAC, no difference was observed between these three groups. Group, systolic blood pressure and group × systolic blood pressure interaction were all the independent determinates for CAC.

Conclusion

In this study, young adults with overweight/obesity‐related MASLD have a higher risk of developing CAC by middle age. These abnormalities are only partially explained by traditional cardiovascular risk factors, and overweight/obesity‐related MASLD has an independent impact on CAC. Our study provides evidence for identifying young adults at higher risk of developing subclinical atherosclerosis.
Purchases over the SNAP benefit cycle: Evidence from supermarket panel data
Authors: Harris‐Lagoudakis Katherine , Wich Hannah
Published: June 2024

This paper investigates the effect of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefit disbursement on intramonthly household level purchases made from a supermarket retailer. We find that spending, the likelihood of shopping, the bulk expenditure share and the national brand expenditure share increase by $2, 1.5, 2, and 0.6% points, respectively, on the day that SNAP benefits are disbursed. We also compare and contrast estimates that use variation in the indicator for benefit receipt to estimates that utilize variation in the probability of SNAP benefit receipt. We find substantial differences between the two approaches for the outcome of spending.
Olfactory responses of the blister beetle Epicauta atomaria, a polyphagous crop pest, to host, non‐host, and conspecific odors
Authors: Wagner Leandro S. , Campos‐Soldini María P. , Guerenstein Pablo G.
Published: June 2024

The blister beetle Epicauta atomaria (Germar) (Coleoptera: Meloidae) is a phytophagous pest of various agricultural crops, especially in Amaranthaceae, Solanaceae, and Fabaceae. Currently, this insect is managed through the spraying of synthetic insecticides that cause serious human health and environmental damage. To reduce the use of synthetic insecticides, the integrated pest management (IPM) programs for other crop pests rely on the use of semiochemical compounds, such as pheromones, kairomones, and allomones, to manipulate the insects' behavior to prevent crop damage. However, studies on semiochemical compounds related to E. atomaria have never been carried out. For this reason, the aim of this study was to explore the chemical communication of E. atomaria. This includes the existence of (i) a sex and/or an aggregation pheromone, (ii) attractant volatile kairomones from host plants, and (iii) repellent volatile allomones from non‐host plants. Tests were carried out using olfactometers and an experimental arena. First, olfactometer tests failed to show the existence of volatile sex and/or aggregation pheromones of these insects. Second, olfactometer and experimental arena tests failed to demonstrate attraction of E. atomaria via volatile kairomonal compounds from host plants (chard, bell pepper, and cock's‐eggs). However, olfactometer tests showed that non‐host plants of E. atomaria (thyme and lavender) emit allomonal volatile compounds with repellent activity. This work represents a first step toward the elucidation of the chemical ecology of E. atomaria and suggests that volatiles from non‐host plants help shape the host preferences of these insects. Those volatiles could be used as a “push” component in a “push–pull” strategy against this pest.
First report of anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum theobromicola on Myrciaria dubia in Brazil
Authors: Sachet Marieli Teresinha Guerrezi , de Farias Machado Juliana , Rincón Deisy Ximena Vianchá , da Silva Gilvan Ferreira , Sousa Thiago Fernandes , Chagas Edvan Alves , da Conceição da Rocha Araújo Maria , da Silva Matos Kedma
Published: June 2024

Plants of the genus Myrciaria are commonly cultivated in the northern region of Brazil for fruit production. Symptoms of leaf spot in camu‐camu (Myrciaria dubia) trees are frequently observed. The objective of this study was to identify the etiological agent associated with anthracnose in camu‐camu using the concept of morphological and phylogenetic analyses. Leaves with symptoms of anthracnose were collected from camu‐camu plants in the state of Roraima, Brazil. Morphological identification; sequencing analysis of CAL, GAPDH, CHS‐1 and TUB2 gene regions; a pathogenicity test and reisolation of the fungus from symptomatic artificially inoculated plants confirmed C. theobromicola as the causal agent of the disease. This is the first record of C. theobromicola causing anthracnose in camu‐camu in Brazil.
A global assessment of nested patterns in insular mammal assemblages
Authors: Millien Virginie , Zhan Chengxiu , Li Yanxia , Wang Jiang , Wang Yanping
Published: June 2024

Aim

A nested pattern (nestedness) in species composition is a frequent signature of insular communities. However, it remains unclear whether the drivers of nestedness are consistent across multiple island systems. Here, we investigated the pattern and drivers of taxonomic, functional and phylogenetic nestedness in terrestrial mammal assemblages from 10 distinct island systems (archipelagos).

Location

Global.

Time period

Contemporary.

Major taxa studied

Terrestrial mammals.

Methods

We compiled occurrence data and species traits of terrestrial mammals from 228 islands in 10 distinct island assemblages. We assembled a dataset of island biogeographic characteristics for each of these islands, including island area, isolation index and maximum elevation. For all 10 assemblages, we first tested for significant patterns of taxonomic, functional and phylogenetic nestedness. We then examined the associations between nestedness, island biogeographic characteristics and species traits.

Results

We detected significant patterns of taxonomic, functional or phylogenetic nestedness in mammal assemblages from all 10 archipelagos. Biogeographic characteristics of islands affecting the rate of extinction in island species, namely, island area and elevation, were significantly associated with the degree of nestedness in these assemblages. Traits associated with the extinction probability of a species, such as litter size, further drove the nested pattern in some assemblages.

Main conclusions

All analyses pointed to selective extinction as a main mechanism shaping the observed nested patterns in island mammal assemblages. From a conservation point of view, different management strategies should be implemented for mammal assemblages in these island systems by identifying the drivers of species extinction rates specific to each island system and species occurring on these islands.
Densification mechanism and thermal shock resistance improvement of MgF2‐doped Y2O3 ceramics
Authors: Yu Yiming , Wei Yaowu , Liu Kui , Chen Bo , Chen Junfeng
Published: June 2024

This paper aims to improve the density and thermal shock resistance of Y2O3 ceramics for the preparation of ultra‐pure high‐temperature alloy crucible materials. The doping effect of MgF2 content on the densification behavior, physical properties, and thermal shock resistance of Y2O3 ceramics was systematically investigated in this paper. The results suggested that the presence of MgF2 greatly promoted the growth of Y2O3 grains and the transformation of the pore structure by liquid‐phase sintering. And the mechanical properties of the MgF2‐doped Y2O3 ceramics were significantly improved. Besides, the marked improvement in the thermal shock resistance of MgF2‐doped Y2O3 ceramics was attributed to the synergistic action resulting from the growth of grain size and the enhancement of the crack deflection effect. In particular, the relative density of Y2O3 ceramics doped with 1.5 wt% MgF2 reached 96.4% and the residual flexural strength ratio after thermal shock achieved 45.0%, showing an excellent application prospect.
The decision‐making process of palliative care among male caregivers of chronically ill patients‐A grounded theory study
Authors: Wang Shou‐Yu , Lee Pei‐Yu , Sun Yong‐Jhu Emily , Liu Ju‐Fen
Published: June 2024

Background

Family caregivers have a vital role to play in palliative care for chronically ill patients. In Taiwan, caregiver demographics are evolving, with the number of male caregivers increasing. Gender differences influence psychosocial behaviours, thought processes and communication styles. In healthcare, acknowledgement of gender differences facilitates effective delivery of high‐quality care.

Aim

The aim of this study is to explore male caregivers' decision‐making process for palliative care for chronically ill family members.

Methods

This study employed grounded theory to generate a substantive theory of male caregivers' decision‐making process for palliative care for chronically ill family members. We recruited 22 male participants from three inner‐city teaching hospitals in Taiwan.

Findings

Regarding the decision‐making process of palliative care of chronic ill family, where male caregivers do not want their loved ones suffering anymore, the male caregivers' decision‐making process was impacted, first, by caregivers' views on the last stage of life; second, by their wish for good care during the end of life; and third, by their conviction that the patients' wishes should be respected. Furthermore, caregivers' philosophy of life and death is also a supportive ground for decision‐making. This philosophy was influenced by their education in palliative care, financial status and religious beliefs and practices. The core category emerging from this study is encapsulated by a participant's assertion, ‘How difficult is it? There are no male and female differences’.

Conclusion

We found that palliative care experiences of male caregivers are important for the decision‐making process for palliative care for their chronically ill family members. Caregivers want their loved ones to receive good care as the last step in life, to respect their wishes and no more suffering for the patient. Therefore, health professionals should be familiar with the palliative care process that caregivers go through to offer updated information when needed.
Support for an EU‐wide social policy? A country‐comparative analysis of unemployment perceptions
Authors: Wang Hequn
Published: June 2024

This article explored the influence of unemployment perceptions on attitudes towards an EU‐wide social policy that guarantees a minimum standard of living for the poor across 18 European countries. The article relied on a theoretical framework that highlights the interaction among economic self‐interest, ideology, and perceptions. Using data from Eurostat and the European Social Survey, the results show that Europeans with more negative perceptions of national unemployment or the living conditions of the unemployed were more likely to support an EU minimum income scheme. This association was particularly strong among individuals with non‐egalitarian values or right‐leaning ideology and remained relatively consistent across different national contexts. Additionally, support was stronger in countries with poor economic and welfare conditions. Overall, the findings reveal a high perceived legitimacy among Europeans for implementing a policy measure that aims to tackle poverty in the EU.
From dentistry to immunology: navigating challenges and building a career in neuroimmunology
Authors: Yshii Lidia
Published: June 2024

This Commentary recounts an academic journey from dentistry to neuroimmunology, highlighting pivotal moments such as a PhD fraught with challenges and an unexpected postdoctoral experience in France. My decision to settle in Belgium for a postdoc and subsequent transition to an assistant professorship at KU Leuven reflects resilience, adaptability and a commitment to both scientific exploration and family life. Balancing career uncertainties, motherhood and academic achievements, it encapsulates a trajectory shaped by a passion for neuroimmunology.
Do video or telephone consultations impact attendance rates in an addiction medicine specialist outpatient clinic?
Authors: Hadinata Ignatius E. , Naren Thileepan , Rowland Bosco , Cook Jonathan , Nielsen Suzanne
Published: June 2024

Background

Effective alcohol and other drugs (AODs) treatment has been proven to increase productivity and reduce costs to the community. Telehealth has previously been proven effective at delivering AOD treatment in the right settings. Yet, Australia's current Medicare funding restricts telephone consultations.

Aim

We hypothesise that treatment modality influences attendance rates. Specifically, telephone consultations can remove barriers to accessing treatment and, therefore, can increase attendance.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective audit on our addiction medicine specialist outpatient service from 1 July 2022 to 30 June 2023. A mixed‐effects logistic regression model was used to analyse factors associated with attendance rates.

Results

There were 576 participants in the study, and 3354 appointments were booked over the 12‐month study period. Of these, 2695 were face‐to‐face, 541 were telephone and 118 were video. The unadjusted raw attendance rate was highest in the telephone group (87.24%), followed by face‐to‐face (73.02%) and video (44.92%). After adjusting for covariates, telephone consultation was associated with significantly increased odds of attending compared to face‐to‐face (odds ratio (OR) = 2.60, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.90–3.54, P < 0.001). Video consultation was associated with a 69% reduction in the odds of attending compared to face‐to‐face (OR = 0.31, 95% CI = 0.019–0.49, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

While physical attendance may be required for specific clinical care, telephone consultations are associated with increased attendance and can form an important adjunct to delivering addiction treatment. Given the substantial costs of substance use disorders, this could inform government policies and funding priorities to further improve access and treatment outcomes.
Enhanced mechanical and wave‐absorption properties of SiC–Si3N4–FeSi porous ceramics by introducing Al
Authors: Zhang Huihui , Ma Guocheng , Wu Haibo , Yuan Ming , Liu Xuejian , Huang Zhengren
Published: June 2024

SiC‐based porous ceramic wave‐absorbing materials have attracted much attention due to their excellent properties such as low density, high‐temperature resistance, and oxidation resistance. In this work, the impedance matching of SiC ceramics is improved by introducing Si3N4 wave‐transparent phase, and the dielectric loss capability of SiC ceramics is enhanced by introducing FeSi wave loss phase. To achieve a balance between impedance matching and absorption loss in porous ceramics, different molar contents of Al were introduced into FeSi to tailor electromagnetic parameters. The effects of introducing FeAlxSi1−x on the phase composition, microstructure, dielectric loss, and microwave absorption mechanism of SiC–Si3N4 porous ceramics were systematically investigated. When FeAl0.25Si0.75 is added, the minimum reflection loss of the porous ceramics is as low as −58.02 dB, and the flexural strength is as high as 87.23 MPa. The presence of Al promotes the transformation of the Si3N4 crystal and the generation of Al2O3. The introduction of FeAl0.25Si0.75 into SiC–Si3N4 has constructed “inductor–capacitor–resistance” microcircuit, which enhances polarization loss, conductivity loss, and magnetic loss, and realized the double enhancement of the mechanical and wave‐absorbing properties of porous ceramics.
Are women penalized for showing pride at work? Gender disparities in the competence‐warmth tradeoff
Authors: Burke Vanessa , Grandey Alicia A. , Melloy Robert C. , Ferris D. Lance , England Katelyn
Published: June 2024

Showing pride at work clearly communicates personal success (i.e., high competence) and boosts status; yet some evidence suggests it can also signal self‐focus and insensitivity to others (i.e., low warmth). Prior scholars have proposed gender differences explain mixed findings, but with limited support. We propose that the benefit‐cost tradeoff depends on the displayer's gender in conjunction with the social context of the display. We test the contextualized dual‐signaling model of employee pride displays, uniquely assessing how the signaler's gender and receiver's social motives (between‐person comparisons) change first‐impressions of competence and warmth after one or repeated exposures (i.e., within‐person comparisons). Study 1 was a 2 (signaler gender) by 2 (signal context) design obtaining judgments before and after seeing a dynamic pride display. Pride displays increased competence similarly across employee gender, but women saw significantly greater costs to warmth when displays were public (i.e., coworkers present), a violation of gender norms. In Study 2, we replicate this finding regardless of whether coworkers were collaborators or competitors (between‐person), and found repeated displays increase the warmth cost for women and the competence gains for men. In Study 3, we compare the costs for women of confirming gender norms for warmth (i.e., happiness display) or violating gender norms for warmth but conforming to leader norms for competence (i.e., pride display). Results suggest “happy” women are preferred as leaders over “proud” women despite higher competence. We clarify mixed findings and confirm the need for contextualized theory to understand gender differences in pride displays and career trajectories.
Relationship between circulating thrombospondin‐1 messenger ribonucleic acid and microribonucleic acid‐194 levels in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetic kidney disease: The outcomes of a case–control study
Authors: Ma Ning , Liu Weiwei , Xu Ning , Yin Dong , Zheng Ping , Wang Guofeng , Hui Yuan , Zhang Jiping , Han Guanjun , Yang Chuanhui , Lu Yan , Cheng Xingbo
Published: June 2024

Aims/Introduction

We investigated the relationship of circulating TSP‐1 mRNA and miR‐194 with diabetic kidney disease’s degree.

Materials and Methods

We enrolled 167 hospitalized type 2 diabetes patients in the endocrinology department. Patients were split into three groups according to urinary microalbumin: A, B and C. The control group comprised healthy outpatients (n = 163). The quantities of microribonucleic acid (miR)‐194 and thrombospondin‐1 (TSP‐1) messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) in the participants’ circulation were measured using a quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

Circulating TSP‐1 mRNA (P = 0.024) and miR‐194 (P = 0.029) expressions significantly increased in type 2 diabetes patients. Circulating TSP‐1 mRNA (P = 0.040) and miR‐194 (P = 0.007) expression levels differed significantly among the three groups; circulating TSP‐1 mRNA expression increased with urinary microalbumin. However, miR‐194 declined in group B and increased in group C. Circulating TSP‐1 mRNA was positively correlated with cystatin‐c (r = 0.281; P = 0.021) and microalbumin/creatinine ratio (UmALB/Cr; r = 0.317; P = 0.009); miR‐194 was positively correlated with UmALB/Cr (r = 0.405; P = 0.003). Stepwise multivariate linear regression analysis showed cystatin‐c (β = 0.578; P = 0.021) and UmALB/Cr (β = 0.001; P = 0.009) as independent factors for TSP‐1 mRNA; UmALB/Cr (β = 0.005; P = 0.028) as an independent factor for miR194. Areas under the curve for circulating TSP‐1 mRNA and miR194 were 0.756 (95% confidence interval 0.620–0.893; sensitivity 0.69 and specificity 0.71, P < 0.01) and 0.584 (95% confidence interval 0.421–0.748; sensitivity 0.54 and specificity 0.52, P < 0.01), respectively.

Conclusions

Circulating TSP‐1 mRNA and miR‐194 expressions significantly increased in type 2 diabetes patients. The microalbumin group had lower levels of miR‐194 (a risk factor that is valuable for type 2 diabetes kidney disease evaluation).
How to overcome constraints imposed by microsporidian genome features to ensure gene prediction?
Authors: Peyretaillade Eric , Akossi Reginal F. , Tournayre Jérémy , Delbac Frédéric , Wawrzyniak Ivan
Published: June 2024

Since the advent of sequencing techniques and due to their continuous evolution, it has become easier and less expensive to obtain the complete genome sequence of any organism. Nevertheless, to elucidate all biological processes governing organism development, quality annotation is essential. In genome annotation, predicting gene structure is one of the most important and captivating challenges for computational biology. This aspect of annotation requires continual optimization, particularly for genomes as unusual as those of microsporidia. Indeed, this group of fungal‐related parasites exhibits specific features (highly reduced gene sizes, sequences with high rate of evolution) linked to their evolution as intracellular parasites, requiring the implementation of specific annotation approaches to consider all these features. This review aimed to outline these characteristics and to assess the increasingly efficient approaches and tools that have enhanced the accuracy of gene prediction for microsporidia, both in terms of sensitivity and specificity. Subsequently, a final part will be dedicated to postgenomic approaches aimed at reinforcing the annotation data generated by prediction software. These approaches include the characterization of other understudied genes, such as those encoding regulatory noncoding RNAs or very small proteins, which also play crucial roles in the life cycle of these microorganisms.