bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emotions of fear and anger as a discursive tool of radical right leaders in Central Eastern Europe
Authors: Hloušek Vít , Meislová Monika Brusenbauch , Havlík Vratislav
Published: June 2024

The paper examines how the radical right parties´ leaders work with emotions while addressing their voters and sympathizers on Twitter/X social media. We focus on the “supply side” on the level of leaders´ discourses. The goal is to demonstrate how they work with emotions, especially those of fear and anger. The context represents Russian aggression against Ukraine, because, typically, circumstances of a crisis bolster the ability of radical right leaders to use emotional rhetoric devices. Czechia, Hungary, and Slovakia represent three particularly relevant and distinctive cases among the CEE countries according to the relevance, relative strength, and stability of radical right parties. We examined social media, particularly Twitter, since it is one of the most prominent tools of political communication today, especially for populists. We collected the data of all Tweets between February 24, 2022 and February 24, 2023. We combined a systematic quantitative content analysis with a more in-depth qualitative analysis of the key characteristics of the discursive construction of the two most salient emotions: anger and fear. We did not confirm the assumption that they would utilise the war in Ukraine since most tweets addressed issues related to domestic politics. The research, however, confirmed that despite differences, anger and fear play a substantial role in the emotional repertoire and represent necessary rhetorical devices. Our findings concur with the literature on radical right populism and its employment of emotional discourse. We found that even a crisis in international politics has been reframed primarily as a domestic issue and integrated into classical discursive practices.
Efficacy of the combination of water aerobics and metacognitive training on psychological and physical health variables and their relationship with SP1 and SP4 biomarkers in people with psychosis: a study protocol
Authors: Ochoa Susana , Verdaguer-Rodríguez Marina , Batlle Núria , Garreta Francesc , Garcia Berta , Haro Josep María , Vila-Andreu Èlia , Hernández Maria José , Escandell Maria José , Muñoz Ana , Vilamala Sònia , Marcos Sandra , Bassolas Laura , Pascua María , Ramos Belén ,   on behalf of Thalassa Research Group
Published: June 2024

Background

Metacognitive Training (MCT) is widely used and effective in reducing positive symptoms in psychosis. Physical exercise, such as Water Aerobics (WA), improves general health, quality of life and symptoms as a low impact activity that allows social interactions. Preliminary results suggest a relationship between dopamine and psychotic symptoms, through SP transcription factors, SP1 and SP4 biomarkers. The aims of the project are to evaluate the efficacy of a combined intervention (WA and MCT) for psychosis to improve psychotic symptoms, physical health, and transcription levels of SP biomarkers.

Materials and methods

This is a unicentric randomized controlled trial of three parallel intervention groups: MCT, WA and combined intervention. The estimated sample will be 48 patients with a psychotic spectrum disorder diagnosis. The assessment will be performed at baseline and at 2-months’ follow-up. Instruments used in the assessment will include clinical, cognitive, metacognitive, social cognitive and psychosocial variables.

Discussion

This will be the first study investigating the impact of the combination of MCT and WA in psychosis. Moreover, it will be the first study analyzing changes in the transcriptional biomarkers SP1 and SP4 after interventions. The results of this study may have clinical implications contributing to the improvement of treatment selection.

Clinical trial registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov/, identifier: NCT05455593.
Conceptualization, use, and outcomes associated with compassion in the care of youth with childhood-onset disabilities: a scoping review
Authors: Patsakos Eleni M. , Patel Stuti , Simpson Robert , Nelson Michelle L. A. , Penner Melanie , Perrier Laure , Bayley Mark T. , Munce Sarah E. P.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

To examine the scope of existing literature on the conceptualization, use, and outcomes associated with compassion in the care of youth with childhood-onset disabilities.

Methods

A protocol was developed based on the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) scoping review method. MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and EBSCOhost CINAHL, were searched.

Results

Eight studies were selected for inclusion; four used quantitative methodology, and four used qualitative methods. Compassion was not defined a priori or a posteriori in any of the included studies. The concept of self-compassion was explicitly defined only for parents of youth with childhood-onset disabilities in three studies a priori. The most reported outcome measure was self-compassion in parents of youth with childhood-onset disabilities. Self-compassion among parents was associated with greater quality of life and resiliency and lower stress, depression, shame and guilt.

Discussion

There is limited evidence on the conceptualization, use, and outcomes associated with compassion among youth with childhood-onset disabilities. Self-compassion may be an effective internal coping process among parents of youth with childhood-onset disabilities. Further research is required to understand the meaning of compassion to youth with childhood-onset disabilities, their parents and caregivers.

Systematic review registration

https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/2GRB4.
Positive sexuality, relationship satisfaction, and health: a network analysis
Authors: Andreoli Giovanbattista , Rafanelli Chiara , Gremigni Paola , Hofmann Stefan G. , Casu Giulia
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Positive sexuality, defined as the happiness and fulfillment individuals derive from their sexual experiences, expressions, and behaviors, has been linked to relationship satisfaction and health. However, the intricate associations between positive sexuality and relationship functioning and health indicators have rarely been explored from a network perspective. This approach, by analyzing the interconnections among these factors within a broader system, can offer insights into complex dynamics and identify key variables for targeted interventions.

Methods

The present study applied network analysis to uncover interconnections between positive sexuality, relationship satisfaction, and health indicators, highlight the most relevant variables and explore potential gender-based differences in a sample of 992 partnered individuals (51% women, aged 18–71 years). Networks were estimated via Gaussian Graphical Models, and network comparison test was used to compare men and women.

Results

Results indicated that variables related to positive sexuality were more highly interconnected than the rest of the network. There were small-to-negligible connections between positive sexuality and relationship satisfaction variables, both of which had negligible or no connections with health. The network was globally invariant across gender, though a few connections were gender-specific. The most important variables, regardless of gender, related to pleasurable feelings during sexual intercourse.

Discussion

The findings underscore the importance of enhancing positive sexual experiences within intimate relationships and have implications for research and clinical practice in positive sexuality.
Alteration of hyperpolarization-activated cation current-mediated metaplasticity contributes to electroconvulsive shock-induced learning and memory impairment in depressed rats
Authors: Ren Li , Yu Jian , Chen Hengsheng , Luo Jie , Lv Feng , Min Su
Published: June 2024

Background

Accompanied by a rapid and effective antidepressant effect, electroconvulsive shock (ECS) can also induce learning and memory impairment. Our previous research reported that metaplasticity is involved in this process. However, the mechanisms still remain unclear. This study investigated the role of Ih current in the metaplastic changes and learning and memory impairment induced by ECS in depressive rats.

Methods

Depressive rats received ECS after modelling using chronic unpredictable. ZD7288, a type of Ih current inhibitor was used to verify the effect of Ih current. The sucrose preference test and Morris water maze were used for behavior testing. Changes in metaplasticity was assessed with the LTD/LTP threshold by stimulation at different frequencies. Spontaneous and evoked action potentials (APs) were measured to confirm difference of neuronal excitability. Additionally, the amplitude of Ih current was analyzed.

Results

ECS exerts antidepressant effect, but also induce spatial learning and memory dysfunction. ECS up-regulates the LTD/LTP threshold. In rats treated with ECS, the frequency of spontaneous and evoked APs is significantly reduced. In addition, ECS induces changes in the intrinsic properties of AP, including a decrease of AP-half width and peak amplitude, and an increase in AP time to peak and post-hyperpolarization potential amplitude. In particular, ECS increases both instantaneous and steady-state Ih currents. However, Inhibition of Ih current with ZD7288 results in a relief of learning and memory impairment and a decrease in threshold, as well as a significant reversal of whole-cell electrophysiological changes.

Conclusion

ECS-induced learning and memory impairment is caused by neuronal hypoexcitability mediated metaplasticity, and upregulation of LTD/LTP threshold by an increase in Ih current.
Everyday life for patients with schizophrenia and severely impaired social functioning
Authors: Høier Nanna Yosser Ben , Mølstrøm Ida-Marie , Urfer-Parnas Annick , Henriksen Mads Gram , Nordgaard Julie
Published: June 2024

Background

A structure of everyday life creates routines and a sense of familiarity, which provides a recognizable basis for being and acting in the world. A structure of everyday life reduces stress, and daily stress has consistently been associated with higher levels of psychiatric symptoms. Little is known about how patients with schizophrenia and severe social impairment structure their lives. Thus, we aimed to explore the everyday lives of this group of patients, looking for structuring elements.

Methods

In this qualitative study, we included patients diagnosed with schizophrenia who were either homeless or had difficulties reporting for treatment and, thus, needed treatment from an outreach team.

Results

17 participants were included in the study. We found only few structuring elements across all participants in the qualitative analyses. We identified five themes in our sample that serve as structuring elements in the everyday life: social interactions, volunteering to assist with basic tasks, self-initiated routines such as going for a walk daily, exoskeleton (structure provided by others), and having pets. None of the participants reported much activity during the day, and for most of them, social interactions were minimal.

Discussion

All the participants had very little structure and routines in their everyday life. The shelters provided the homeless participants with some structuring elements, whereas the domiciled participants had no external structuring elements. The findings have important implications for psychosocial treatment of severe social impairment in schizophrenia. The lack of structure in these patients’ everyday lives highlights the need for targeted interventions that could facilitate such structures and guide social involvement and personal recovery.
The exposure to volatile organic compounds associate positively with overactive bladder risk in U.S. adults: a cross-sectional study of 2007–2020 NHANES
Authors: Zhang Dawen , Yan Ziyi , He Junhao , Yao Yunmin , Liu Kai
Published: June 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to comprehensively investigate the potential relationship between blood volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and overactive bladder (OAB) risk.

Methods

A total of 11,183 participants from the 2007–2020 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were included in this cross-sectional study. We used multivariate logistic regression models to investigate the relationship between nine blood VOCs and OAB risk. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis was used to investigate the dose-response relationship between blood VOCs and OAB. In addition, the overall association of blood VOCs with OAB risk was assessed by weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression model. Finally, we conducted subgroup analyses to explore the findings in different high-risk populations.

Results

After adjusting for potential confounders, logistic regression analysis revealed that blood 2,5-dimethylfuran (aOR = 2.940, 95% CI: 1.096–7.890, P = 0.032), benzene (aOR = 1.460, 95% CI: 1.044–2.043, P = 0.027) and furan (aOR = 9.426, 95% CI: 1.421–62.500, P = 0.020) were positively independent associated with the risk of OAB. And dose-response risk curves indicated that 2,5-dimethylfuran, benzene and furan in the blood were linearly positive associated with OAB risk. WQS regression analysis showed that exposure to mixed blood VOCs increased the risk of OAB (OR = 1.29, 95% CI: 1.11–1.49), with furans having the greatest weight. In subgroup analyses, we found that OAB was more susceptible to blood VOCs in young and middle-aged, male, non-hypertensive, and alcohol-drinking populations.

Conclusions

The results of this study indicate that high exposure to VOCs is independently and positively associated with OAB risk in U.S. adults, particularly 2,5-dimethylfuran, benzene, and furan. In addition, age, gender, hypertension and alcohol consumption may influence the association. Our study provided novel epidemiologic evidence to explore the potential role of environmental pollutants in OAB.
The role of antibiotic exposure and the effects of breastmilk and human milk feeding on the developing infant gut microbiome
Authors: Brockway Meredith
Published: June 2024

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life followed by complementary foods and sustained breastfeeding for at least 2 years, underscoring its pivotal role in reducing infant mortality and preventing various illnesses. This perspective delves into the intricate relationship between breastfeeding practices, early life antibiotic exposure, and infant gut microbiome development, highlighting their profound influence on child health outcomes. Antibiotics are extensively prescribed during pregnancy and childhood, disrupting the microbiome, and are related to increased risks of allergies, obesity, and neurodevelopmental disorders. Breastfeeding is a significant determinant of a healthier gut microbiome, characterized by higher levels of beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and lower levels of potential pathogens. Despite widespread recognition of the benefits of breastfeeding, gaps persist in healthcare practices and support mechanisms, exacerbating challenges faced by breastfeeding families. This highlights the pressing need for comprehensive research encompassing breastfeeding behaviors, human milk intake, and their impact on infant health outcomes. Additionally, promoting awareness among healthcare providers and families regarding the detrimental effects of unnecessary formula supplementation could facilitate informed decision-making and bolster exclusive breastfeeding rates. Moreover, donor human milk (DHM) is a promising alternative to formula, potentially mitigating disruptions to the infant gut microbiome after antibiotic exposure. Overall, prioritizing breastfeeding support interventions and bridging research gaps are essential steps towards improving child health outcomes on a global scale.
Scoping review on prevention of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in adolescents: methods, effectiveness and future directions
Authors: Aoun Josée , Spodenkiewicz Michel , Marimoutou Catherine
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Despite the extensive implementation of suicide prevention strategies targeting suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STB) in adolescents, there remains a concerning lack of improvement in the situation. In this comprehensive scoping review, our objective was to provide insights into prevention methods for suicidal thoughts and behaviors directed towards adolescents, including their effectiveness, public perception, and potential adaptations.

Method

A scoping review was conducted, encompassing 71 articles including systematic review, clinical trials and qualitative studies for a wider understanding. Most articles included focus generally on adolescents aged 10–20.

Results

No single intervention has shown expected effectiveness, collective efforts have laid a solid foundation for suicide prevention. Promising interventions include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and incorporating Technology-based interventions. However, challenges persist in promoting help-seeking behaviors and addressing barriers such as stigma, the natural impulsive nature of adolescents and difficulty in selecting and defining data and designs.

Discussion

This review underscores the need for a holistic approach to suicide prevention, integrating social, emotional, and psychological dimensions. Successful interventions target underlying issues like depression and loneliness rather than solely focusing on suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STB). Combining direct and indirect interventions is a sensible approach for both immediate and long-term results. Understanding Generation Z's unique needs, influenced by technology and diverse perspectives, is crucial for effective prevention.

Conclusion

Involving adolescents and adopting patient-centered healthcare with outcome measures like Patient Perceived Outcome Measures can enhance suicide prevention efforts by prioritizing safety and patient experiences.
Feminist perspectives on environmental justice and health in Jamaica
Authors: Albarus Neena , Lue J’Anna-Mare , Kerrison Erin , Carrasquillo Maya
Published: June 2024

Jamaica is an island nation with a history that is informed by Taino settlement, European colonisation, chattel slavery, disinvestment, and continued extractivism. This perspective paper leverages a historical analysis to explore environmental injustices affecting the health and quality of life of Jamaicans living in Jamaica. This article hopes to contribute to a growing but limited body of scholarly research that contends with environmental and climate justice in the context of the Caribbean. In discussing a lack of critical environmental infrastructure, such as reliable solid waste management, and the impacts of extractive industries, such as bauxite mining, the paper intends to highlight the environmental, public health, and social harms that are produced. Employing an intersectional approach grounded in Black feminist epistemology put forward by Patricia Hill Collins, the authors use their lived experiences as a source of knowledge. The paper analyses how these environmental injustices harm Jamaican communities at large but underscores the compounded challenges faced by Jamaican women who experience marginalisation on the basis of gender, urban/rural residency, and class. The paper concludes by urging researchers, policymakers, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders to conduct further research and create sustainable and equitable environmental standards that have considerations for environmental injustice in Jamaica.
Centers for optimizing water management in agroecosystems & global food security
Authors: Ondrasek Gabrijel , Rengel Zed
Published: June 2024

Global food security (GFS) is challenged by increasing food demand due to population growth and climate change. International trade and globalization have underpinned GFS until the most recent public health, geopolitical and economic crises, when virtually overnight, the focus of governments has shifted towards domestically and locally produced foods. However, the agri-food sector has limited flexibility, and relatively long periods are needed for fundamental/sustainable changes. One of the crucial factors enabling GFS is the efficient water management, but the required knowledge and capabilities are often lacking regionally/locally. We propose the Centers for Optimizing Water Management in Agroecosystems as a long-term solution. The Centers would be the specialized hubs for promotion of research, innovation and technology transfer, raising the knowledge of stakeholders (farmers, extension and government officials, scholars, students, policymakers and other professionals) and their capacities in water management. These Centers would operate as research/education/technology demonstration entities tailored to the specifics of a particular country/region, aiming to address the most important and pertinent goals and outcomes with a high-spatial-resolution outreach. Finally, the Centers will improve farmers’ livelihoods, contribute to sustainable and efficient use of agro-environmental resources, and increase productivity and food quality, ultimately supporting GFS.
Seeing the forest through the palms: developments in environmentally sustainable palm oil production and zero-deforestation efforts
Authors: Ostfeld Rosemary , Reiner David M.
Published: June 2024

Palm oil is produced on plantations primarily in Indonesia and Malaysia, which, historically, have been responsible for significant tropical deforestation and ecosystem loss. Driven by a shift away from hydrogenated vegetable oils and its high productivity, palm oil is now part of more than half of all packaged consumer products. Given its centrality across many supply chains, certification schemes have sought to improve environmental sustainability in the palm oil industry. Increasingly, there is an intersection between certification schemes and regulatory drivers. The recent 2023 European Union regulation on deforestation-free products has implications for palm oil and many other forest products. Environmental certification schemes, such as the one developed by the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil, have the potential to play a critical role in the implementation of this recent policy for palm oil and can serve as model for many other commodities subject to the new Directive.
Building an Adverse Outcome Pathway network for COVID-19
Authors: Nymark Penny , Clerbaux Laure-Alix , Amorim Maria-João , Andronis Christos , de Bernardi Francesca , Bezemer Gillina F. G. , Coecke Sandra , Gavins Felicity N. E. , Jacobson Daniel , Lekka Eftychia , Margiotta-Casaluci Luigi , Martens Marvin , Mayasich Sally A. , Mortensen Holly M. , Kim Young Jun , Sachana Magdalini , Tanabe Shihori , Virvilis Vassilis , Edwards Stephen W. , Halappanavar Sabina
Published: June 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic generated large amounts of data on the disease pathogenesis leading to a need for organizing the vast knowledge in a succinct manner. Between April 2020 and February 2023, the CIAO consortium exploited the Adverse Outcome Pathway (AOP) framework to comprehensively gather and systematically organize published scientific literature on COVID-19 pathology. The project considered 24 pathways relevant for COVID-19 by identifying essential key events (KEs) leading to 19 adverse outcomes observed in patients. While an individual AOP defines causally linked perturbed KEs towards an outcome, building an AOP network visually reflect the interrelatedness of the various pathways and outcomes. In this study, 17 of those COVID-19 AOPs were selected based on quality criteria to computationally derive an AOP network. This primary network highlighted the need to consider tissue specificity and helped to identify missing or redundant elements which were then manually implemented in the final network. Such a network enabled visualization of the complex interactions of the KEs leading to the various outcomes of the multifaceted COVID-19 and confirmed the central role of the inflammatory response in the disease. In addition, this study disclosed the importance of terminology harmonization and of tissue/organ specificity for network building. Furthermore the unequal completeness and quality of information contained in the AOPs highlighted the need for tighter implementation of the FAIR principles to improve AOP findability, accessibility, interoperability and re-usability. Finally, the study underlined that describing KEs specific to SARS-CoV-2 replication and discriminating physiological from pathological inflammation is necessary but requires adaptations to the framework. Hence, based on the challenges encountered, we proposed recommendations relevant for ongoing and future AOP-aligned consortia aiming to build computationally biologically meaningful AOP networks in the context of, but not limited to, viral diseases.
Real-world community hospital hyperglycemia management in noncritically ill, type 2 diabetic patients: a comparison between basal-bolus insulin and correctional insulin
Authors: Yang Caiyun J. , Bourgeois Chelsey , Delgado Elina , Graham William , Burmeister Melissa A.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of two insulin regimens for inpatient hyperglycemia management: combination short-plus long-acting insulin (basal-bolus insulin regimen, BBIR) vs. short-acting insulin only (correctional insulin only regimen, CIOR).

Methods

Chart reviews identified noncritically ill patients with pre-existing type 2 diabetes mellitus receiving insulin injections. Study participants (N = 138) were divided into BBIR (N = 104) and CIOR (N = 34) groups. Data for the entire duration of each patient’s stay were analyzed.

Results

The primary outcome of percent hyperglycemic days was higher in BBIR vs. CIOR (3.97 ± 0.33% vs. 1.22 ± 0.38%). The safety outcome of percent hypoglycemic events was not different between BBIR and CIOR (0.78 ± 0.22% vs. 0.53 ± 0.37%). Regarding secondary outcomes, the percentage of euglycemic days was lower in BBIR vs. CIOR (26.74 ± 2.97% vs. 40.98 ± 5.91%). Overall blood glucose (BG) and daily insulin dose were higher in BBIR vs. CIOR (231.43 ± 5.37 vs. 195.55 ± 6.25 mg/dL and 41.36 ± 3.07 vs. 5.02 ± 0.68 units, respectively). Insulin regimen-associated differences in hyperglycemia and daily insulin dose persisted after adjusting for covariates.

Conclusion

Our observations linking BBIR to worse glycemic outcomes differ from those reported in the randomized controlled Rabbit 2 and Rabbit 2 Surgery trials. This discrepancy can be partly explained by the fact that BBIR patients displayed worse glycemic baselines. Also, there was no diabetes stewardship team to monitor BG and modify insulin therapy, which is relevant since achieving euglycemia in BBIR patients requires more dose adjustments. This study highlights challenges with standard inpatient glycemic management and calls for further research assessing the benefits of pharmacist-led diabetes stewardship.
Diagnostic and prognostic significance of keloid-like collagen remodeling patterns in the extracellular matrix of colorectal cancer
Authors: Imanbayev Nauryzbay M. , Iztleuov Yerbolat M. , Kamyshanskiy Yevgeniy K. , Zhumasheva Aigul V.
Published: June 2024

Background

The desmoplastic reaction is considered a promising prognostic parameter for colorectal cancer. However, intermediate desmoplastic reaction is characterized by sizeable stromal heterogeneity, including both small amounts of keloid-like collagen (KC) in the fibrotic stroma and thick tufts of KC circumferentially surrounding cancer nests and occupying most of the fields of view. The present study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic significance of KC histophenotyping with a quantitative visual assessment of its presence in the stroma of the invasive margin of TNM (The “tumor-node-metastasis” classification) stage II/III colorectal cancer (CRC).

Methods and results

175 resected tumors from patients with TNM stage II/III CRC were examined. Keloid-like collagen was assessed according to Ueno H. criteria. KC was assessed at the primary tumor invasive margin using Hematoxylin & Eosin and Masson’s trichrome staining. The cut-off point for KC was examined using “the best cutoff approach by log-rank test.” Using a cutoff point of 30%, we histologically divided fibrous stroma in the invasive area into two groups: “type A”—KC ≤ 0.3 and “type B”—KC>0.3. Type A stroma was observed in 48% of patients, type B—in 52%. The association between collagen amount and 5-year recurrence-free survival (5-RFS) was assessed using Cox regression analysis. Kaplan-Meier analysis and log-rank tests were used to assess the significance of survival analysis. Analysis of categorical variables showed that increased KC in CRC stroma predicted adverse outcomes for 5-RFS (hazard ratio [HR] = 3.143, 95%, confidence interval [CI] = 1.643–6.012, p = 0.001). Moreover, in Kaplan-Meier analysis, the log-rank test showed that type B exhibited worse 5-RFS than type A (p = 0.000).

Conclusion

KC is an independent predictor of 5-year overall and RFS in patients with TNM stage II/III CRC treated with surgery, with worse survival rates when the amount of KC increases by >30%.
Conceptualization of Covid-19 for Long-term Impact of Corporate Social Responsibility on Small Businesses in the new Normal
Authors: Dar Imran Basheer , Mudasir Maryam , Saeed Mahnoor , Hameed Abdullah , Ali Muhammad Usama
Published: June 2024

In this article, some initial conceptualized examination on how Covid-19 has changed CSR has been portrayed for small businesses particularly. Covid-19 has created negative impact globally. It has affected normal functioning. Consumer and businesses are still creating “social distancing” to avoid physical and potential pestilence. In this article the researchers offer scrutiny on how covid-19 has developed impact on corporate social responsibility (CSR) for long term orientation. Results suggest that the pandemic situation of covid-19 has created negative impact, similarly on the other side it has provided opportunities to businesses to transpose towards corporate social responsibility (CSR) and bestow in global, social and environmental changes as well as have a long term orientation, especially the small businesses.
How Audit Quality Affects Bank Performance and Stability with Moderating Role of Ownership Structure
Authors: Huda Noor UI , Zulfiqar Dr. Bushra , Ljaaz Dr. Shehzad
Published: June 2024

This study examines the impact of audit quality on bank performance and stability, considering ownership structure. Analyzing BR/CS economies and Pakistan from 2010 to 2020, it finds that audit quality positively affects bank performance and stability. Foreign ownership moderates this relationship, while public ownership does not. These findings inform policymakers and regulators in promoting high-quality auditing practices and improving bank stability and performance. Audit quality is a crucial factor in maintaining the financial success and stability of banks, contributing to improved performance and transparency. Foreign ownership has a significant and positive moderating effect on the relationship between audit quality and bank performance and stability. The findings have implications for policymakers and regulators in implementing policies that promote high-quality auditing practices and enhance the stability and performance of banks in BR/CS economies and Pakistan. The current research focuses on the moderating role of ownership structure in the relationship between bank profitability, audit quality, and performance in BR/CS countries and Pakistan, which is a novel approach. The global financial crisis of 2007-2008 highlighted the importance of audit committees in overseeing financial institutions and enforcing regulations and standards. Emerging economies like BR/CS face unique challenges due to weaker regulatory structures, less mature financial systems, and higher levels of debt. Long-term stability of banks is crucial for the overall economic system and the incidence of financial fraud and bankruptcies affects investor confidence and economic growth.
Analyzing Employee Performance through Workforce Diversity Management: Role of Workforce Diversity Characteristics
Authors: Khan Kamran , Javaid Zartashia Kynat
Published: June 2024

The present study explores how diversity management impact employee performance behaviors and identified the mediating role of gender, religion, education and age diversity between the relationship of diversity management and employee performance. To carry out this research, cross sectional design was employed. Data was collected with simple random sampling technique from 350 employees working in diverse cultures in textile organizations of Pakistan. Quantitative data was analyzed on SMARTPLS software by employing structural equation modeling technique. The results of the present study indicate that workforce diversity management has significant direct relation with employee performance and various diversity characteristics mediate this relation. It helps to understand the diverse culture and provide guidelines for management of workforce diversity. Limitations and future recommendations are discussed.
Numerical Investigation of Model Support, Closed Engine Nacelle and Scale Effect on a Wind Tunnel Test Model
Authors: Padureanu Ioan-Laurentiu , Pepelea Dumitru , Stoican Gilbert , Marini Marco , Viola Nicole , Clay Matthew
Published: June 2024

In the frame of the H2020 MORE&LESS project co-funded by European Commission, a test campaign for a hypersonic vehicle demonstrator took place at the INCAS Trisonic Facility. CFD analysis was used to quantify the effects of the wind tunnel model support, the closed engine nacelle, and to perform the Reynolds number extrapolation. Three sets of simulations were used in order to generate the corrections. The wind tunnel configuration with sting, sting cavity, and closed nacelle was used as the baseline, with the aim of matching the experimental results as precisely as possible. A configuration with a flow-through nacelle and the shock cone in the appropriate position for each Mach number and no sting or cavity was used to determine the effect of the sting and the closed nacelle. For the Reynolds extrapolation, a 1:1 model was used, with the boundary conditions deriving from the theoretical trajectory of the vehicle. The CFD results for the wind tunnel configuration closely align with the experimental data. Significant differences between the three configurations can be observed just for the pitching moment, and those are caused by the presence of the sting and the open nacelle. The difference in Reynolds number does not seem to have a significant effect on the aerodynamic coefficients.
Nitrous Oxide Emissions and Ammonia Volatilization from Pasture after Cattle Dung and Urine Applications in the Dry and Rainy Seasons of the Brazilian Cerrado
Authors: Ramos Maria Lucrecia Gerosa , da Costa Adriana Rodolfo , Madari Beata Emoke , Carvalho Glaucilene Duarte , Pereira Ana Claudia de Castro , Corrêa Rubia Santos , de Sousa Thais Rodrigues , de Carvalho Arminda Moreira
Published: June 2024

An important source of greenhouse gases in Brazil is the nitrous oxide (N2O) emission from pasture, and microorganisms play an important role in nitrogen transformations in the soil. This study aimed to evaluate N2O emission and NH3 volatilization from bovine excreta in pasture in an integrated crop–livestock system (ICL) in the Brazilian Cerrado. Three treatments (urine, dung and control) were performed in two pastures (Area 1—three-year pasture of Urochloa ruziziensis and Area 2—one-year pasture of Urochloa brizantha cv. Piatã), with two application times of the excreta (dry and rainy season), during two successive years of application. Compared to the control, the excreta deposition on ICL increased soil N2O and NH3 fluxes. In the dry season, N2O fluxes were associated with higher ammonium (NH4+) availability. In the rainy season, these fluxes were related to NO3− availability and water-filled pore space (WFPS). In both areas, NH3 volatilization was higher after urine than dung application, especially in the dry season. The highest N2O emission factors were obtained for urine (0.32%), the rainy season (0.36%), and older pasture (Area 1: 0.24%). All these values were below the mean IPCC default values (0.77%). These results indicate that N2O emissions in pasture should be evaluated in regional conditions.
Irrigation Practice in Cultivation of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni in Cooler Climates—Case Study in Poland
Authors: Śniegowska Joanna , Biesiada Anita , Gasiński Alan
Published: June 2024

Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni originated in South America, but has gained popularity due to the concentration of sweet steviol glycosides present in its leaves. Stevia is also currently grown on other continents in many countries characterised with warm climate. This research aimed to determine whether different irrigation practices might have a significant influence on the yield and composition of the leaves of stevia plants grown in Poland, in cooler climate than native regions for stevia plants. Stevia plants were grown with four different irrigation regimes: irrigation twice a week, irrigation once a week, irrigation only during times of the drought and not irrigated at all. It was determined that different irrigation regimes have substantial effects on the yield, biometric characteristics and chemical composition of stevia leaves, but none of the irrigation regimes were clearly supreme to the others. Yield of stevia plants that were irrigated once a week or only during the drought times was the highest (2.42–2.58 kg per square meter). Stevia plants that were not irrigated were characterised with the lowest height and lateral width (47.61 and 25.35 cm). Leaves of un-irrigated stevia contained the greatest dry mass content (30.47%) and highest concentration of phenolic compounds (337.88 mg per 100 g of fresh stevia leaves). Stevia plants that were irrigated once or twice a week were characterised with a lower concentration of chlorophylls or carotenoids at the time of the harvest (1.20–1.24 and 2.54–2.58 mg per gram of fresh stevia leaves), but stevia plants that were not irrigated contained a greater amount of chlorophyll and carotenoids (1.58 and 3.17 mg per gram of fresh stevia leaves).
Effect of Salt-Induced Stress on the Calorific Value of Two Miscanthus sacchariflorus (Amur Silvergrass) Varieties
Authors: Lu Hailong , Li Ling , Chen Jingbo , Nkoh Jackson Nkoh , Hao Dongli , Li Jianjian , Wang Jingjing , Li Dandan , Liu Jianxiu , Guo Hailin , Zong Junqin
Published: June 2024

This study was designed to investigate the relationship between the caloric value and salt tolerance of two varieties of Miscanthus sacchariflorus (Amur silvergrass: M127 and M022). The salt tolerance capacity, photosynthetic characteristics, Na+ and K+ uptake by the roots and aboveground parts, and caloric value of different parts of the aboveground parts were obtained under hydroponic conditions. The results showed that M022 was more tolerant to salt stress than M127 and the former had a higher photosynthetic efficiency as well as a lower aboveground Na+ accumulation, K+ efflux, and larger K+/Na+ ratio. The calorific values of stems, spear leaves, aging leaves, and functional leaves of the two varieties showed a decreasing trend with increasing NaCl concentration. At 270 mM NaCl, the calorific values of the stems, aging leaves, functional leaves, and spear leaves was reduced by 18.10%, 46.73%, 26.11%, and 18.35% for M022 and 41.99%, 39.41%, 34.82%, and 45.09% for M127 compared to the controls, respectively. We observed that the aging leaves of M022 had a faster decline rate in calorific value than those of M127, indicating that the aging leaves of M022 preferentially isolated the harmful Na+ ion, reduced its accumulation in other parts, and increased the K+/Na+ ratio in the corresponding parts, thus inhibiting the decrease in calorific value. Following this result, it can be inferred that M022 inhibited the decline in calorific values during stress by efficiently compartmentalizing the distribution of Na+ and K+. Our results provide a theoretical basis and technical support for the efficient cultivation of salt-tolerant energy plants in saline–alkaline soil.
Pesticides Toxicity, Removal and Detoxification in Plants: A Review
Authors: Zhang Boyu , Lv Fang , Yang Jing
Published: June 2024

Pesticides play a crucial role in agricultural production by preventing diseases and pests and ensuring food yield. However, the irrational use of pesticides can lead to numerous issues that compromise crop quality and counteract the original intentions of their application. Therefore, it is necessary to identify more effective methods to counteract pesticide stress. Here we review the impacts of herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides on plants and the measures taken to reduce pesticide residues on plants. We have found that despite the substantial differences in the mechanisms of action of the aforementioned three types of pesticides, the adverse effects they inflict on plants are similar, and at certain dosages, they can severely constrain plant growth and disrupt physiological functions. Also, most current research on using exogenous growth regulators to alleviate pesticide stress still focuses on photosynthesis, the antioxidant system, three-stage detoxification, and secondary metabolites, neglecting the search for genes that respond to pesticide stress. We believe that by combining biological protection with post-harvest treatment techniques and exploring potential genes that are responsive to pesticide stress, a better strategy for dealing with pesticide stress can be found, thereby promoting sustainable agricultural development.
Exploring the Impact of Tea (Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Ktze.)/Trachelospermum jasminoides (Lindl.) Lem. Intercropping on Soil Health and Microbial Communities
Authors: Xiong Yulin , Shao Shuaibo , Li Dongliang , Liu He , Xie Wei , Huang Wei , Li Jing , Nie Chuanpeng , Zhang Jianming , Hong Yongcong , Wang Qiuling , Cai Pumo , Li Yanyan
Published: June 2024

Intercropping, a well-established agroecological technique designed to bolster ecological stability, has been shown to have a significant impact on soil health. However, the specific effects of tea/Trachelospermum jasminoides intercropping on the physicochemical properties and functional microbial community structure in practical cultivation have not been thoroughly investigated. In this study, we utilized high-throughput sequencing technology on the 16S/ITS rDNA genes to assess the impact of tea intercropping with T. jasminoides on the composition, diversity, and potential functions of the soil microbial community in tea gardens. The results indicated that the tea/T. jasminoides intercropping system significantly increased pH levels, soil organic matter, available nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and enzyme activity, ultimately augmenting soil nutrient levels. Furthermore, an in-depth analysis of the bacterial co-occurrence network and topological structure portrayed a more intricate and interconnected soil bacterial community in tea gardens. Remarkably, the abundance of beneficial genera, including Burkholderia, Mesorhizobium, Penicillium, and Trichoderma, underwent a substantial increase, whereas the relative abundance of pathogenic fungi such as Aspergillus, Fusarium, and Curvularia experienced a marked decline. Functional predictions also indicated a notable enhancement in the abundance of microorganisms associated with nitrogen and carbon cycling processes. In summary, the intercropping of tea and T. jasminoides holds the potential to enrich soil nutrient content, reshape the microbial community structure, bolster the abundance of functional microorganisms, and mitigate the prevalence of pathogenic fungi. Consequently, this intercropping system offers a promising solution for sustainable tea garden management, overcoming the limitations of traditional cultivation methods and providing valuable insights for sustainable agriculture practices.
The Association between Broiler Litter Microbiota and the Supplementation of Bacillus Probiotics in a Leaky Gut Model
Authors: Horyanto Darwin , Bajagai Yadav S. , von Hellens Juhani , Chen Xiaojing , Thi Thu Hao Thi Thu Hao , Dunlop Mark W. , Stanley Dragana
Published: June 2024

Probiotics provided from hatch have a major influence on microbiota development, and together with environmental and bedding microbiota, shape the microbial community of the litter. We investigated the influence of probiotic supplementation and a leaky gut challenge induced using dexamethasone (DEX) on the litter microbial community and litter parameters. The probiotic product was a mix of three Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strains. The litter microbiota were compared to the microbial communities from other gut sections. The litter samples had higher microbial diversity compared to the caecum, gizzard, jejunum, and jejunal mucosa. The high similarity between the litter phylum-level microbiota and gizzard microbiota detected in our study could be a consequence of ingested feed and litter passing through the gizzard. Moreover, the litter microbial community is fundamentally distinct from the intestinal microbiota, as evidenced by the number of genera present in the litter but absent from all the intestinal sections and vice versa. Furthermore, LEfSe analysis identified distinct microbial taxa across different groups, with specific genera associated with different treatments. In terms of litter quality, the birds in the DEX groups had a significantly higher moisture content, indicating successful leaky gut challenge, while probiotic supplementation did not significantly affect the moisture levels. These findings provide comprehensive insights into the distinct microbiota characteristics of litter.
Using Object-Oriented Simulation to Assess the Impact of the Frequency and Accuracy of Mobility Scoring on the Estimation of Epidemiological Parameters for Lameness in Dairy Herds
Authors: Clifton Rachel , Hyde Robert , Can Edna , Barden Matthew , Manning Al , Bradley Andrew , Green Martin , O’Grady Luke
Published: June 2024

Mobility scoring data can be used to estimate the prevalence, incidence, and duration of lameness in dairy herds. Mobility scoring is often performed infrequently with variable sensitivity, but how this impacts the estimation of lameness parameters is largely unknown. We developed a simulation model to investigate the impact of the frequency and accuracy of mobility scoring on the estimation of lameness parameters for different herd scenarios. Herds with a varying prevalence (10, 30, or 50%) and duration (distributed around median days 18, 36, 54, 72, or 108) of lameness were simulated at daily time steps for five years. The lameness parameters investigated were prevalence, duration, new case rate, time to first lameness, and probability of remaining sound in the first year. True parameters were calculated from daily data and compared to those calculated when replicating different frequencies (weekly, two-weekly, monthly, quarterly), sensitivities (60–100%), and specificities (95–100%) of mobility scoring. Our results showed that over-estimation of incidence and under-estimation of duration can occur when the sensitivity and specificity of mobility scoring are <100%. This effect increases with more frequent scoring. Lameness prevalence was the only parameter that could be estimated with reasonable accuracy when simulating quarterly mobility scoring. These findings can help inform mobility scoring practices and the interpretation of mobility scoring data.