bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An introduction to climate change in management education: an individual-level approach
Authors: Rusinko Cathy A.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aims to introduce management students to climate change by providing them with an opportunity to address it in their own lives, through a class exercise.

Design/methodology/approach

An in-class exercise was designed, carried out and described in this study. Student teams were assigned different questions on how to address major causes of climate change. Each team did research to generate answers, and ranked their answers based on the speed of implementation. Teams reported their answers to the class. The instructor facilitated a debriefing session, during which all responses were ranked with respect to other variables, including cost savings, time savings and lifestyle fit. This exercise uses few resources and can be adapted to different time lengths and teaching/learning formats (e.g. on-ground, virtual, asynchronous online).

Findings

This exercise can help students to gain an understanding of climate change and its causes and complexities. Students learn how to implement a diverse set of personal actions to mitigate climate change; these can start in the present and continue throughout their lives. In addition, this exercise may help students to make the leap from individual climate change mitigation practices to organizational and societal practices, when they are in the position to do so as future leaders.

Originality/value

Although classes, exercises, and assignments ask management students to consider issues such as climate change at the organizational level, this individual-level exercise can allow students with limited organizational experience to engage more quickly with climate change and better understand organizational and societal implications in the future. That is, if students first understand how to address climate change in their own lives, they may more effectively transfer and apply that understanding at organizational and societal levels and ultimately synthesize solutions to address climate change in the world.
Investigating accounting professionals’ intention to adopt blockchain technology
Authors: Jena R.K.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Blockchain’s potential is so significant that business activities across all industries can be drastically altered. Furthermore, the characteristics of blockchain appear to be well-suited to accounting requirements. However, accounting professionals’ attitude and intention toward blockchain adoption are not clear, particularly in India. Thus, this study aims to investigate and evaluate accountants’ intention to adopt blockchain technology in accounting activities.

Design/methodology/approach

This study examined and assessed accountants’ intention to use blockchain in accounting. To effectively measure usage intention, this study extended the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model by including context-specific constructs. To empirically test and validate the proposed model, data were collected from “369” professional accountants in India.

Findings

The findings revealed that facilitating conditions, performance expectancy and initial trust had a significant impact on adoption. Furthermore, the regulatory framework materially moderated the association between usage intention and its predictors.

Originality/value

These findings provide new empirical evidence about the impact of different predictors of usage intention by extending the UTAUT model. Relevant stakeholders can refer to this pioneering study to increase the adoption of blockchain as an efficient and trustworthy system among professional accountants, particularly in developing countries such as India.
Practice theory approach to Gen Z’s sustainable clothing consumption in Finland
Authors: Gurova Olga
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to answer the questions of what clothing practices related to sustainable fashion can be observed in young consumers' daily lives in Finland’s capital region and what prevents their further proliferation.

Design/methodology/approach

This is qualitative research that draws from 22 semi-structured interviews with high school students in the capital area of Finland. The data were analyzed with the use of thematic analysis, a flexible method of data analysis that allows for the extraction of categories from both theoretical concepts and data.

Findings

This paper contributes to studies of young people’s consumption with the practice theory approach, putting forward the category of following sustainable fashion as an integrative practice. The three-element model of the practice theory allows answering the question of challenges that prevent the practice from shaping. The paper further advances this approach by identifying a list of context-specific dispersed practices incorporated into sustainable fashion.

Practical implications

The study suggests practical ways of improving clothing consumption based on the practice theory approach and findings from empirical research. Sustainable practices require competences, knowledge and skills that the school, as an institution working closely with high school students, could help develop.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the current studies of sustainability and youth culture of consumption with a practice theory approach and findings, related to a particular context of a country from Northern Europe.
Viral communities in millipede guts: Insights into the diversity and potential role in modulating the microbiome
Authors: Nweze Julius Eyiuche , Schweichhart Johannes Sergej , Angel Roey
Published: February 2024

Millipedes are important detritivores harbouring a diverse microbiome. Previous research focused on bacterial and archaeal diversity, while the virome remained neglected. We elucidated the DNA and RNA viral diversity in the hindguts of two model millipede species with distinct microbiomes: the tropical Epibolus pulchripes (methanogenic, dominated by Bacillota) and the temperate Glomeris connexa (non‐methanogenic, dominated by Pseudomonadota). Based on metagenomic and metatranscriptomic assembled viral genomes, the viral communities differed markedly and preferentially infected the most abundant prokaryotic taxa. The majority of DNA viruses were Caudoviricetes (dsDNA), Cirlivirales (ssDNA) and Microviridae (ssDNA), while RNA viruses consisted of Leviviricetes (ssRNA), Potyviridae (ssRNA) and Eukaryotic viruses. A high abundance of subtypes I‐C, I‐B and II‐C CRISPR‐Cas systems was found, primarily from Pseudomonadota, Bacteroidota and Bacillota. In addition, auxiliary metabolic genes that modulate chitin degradation, vitamins and amino acid biosynthesis and sulphur metabolism were also detected. Lastly, we found low virus‐to‐microbe‐ratios and a prevalence of lysogenic viruses, supporting a Piggyback‐the‐Winner dynamic in both hosts.
The holistic repercussions of the ongoing war and refugee crisis on the Polish travel agencies
Authors: Ahmad Zahid , Mehmood Shafaqat , Khan Ather Azim , Khan Salman , Jabbar Asif
Published: February 2024

The Russia–Ukraine conflict is a common concern and hot‐debated topic of the international community. This study aims to assess the influence of the war and refugee crisis's holistic repercussions on the Polish tour operators/travel agencies; and elaborate on the response capability of managers/concerned authorities. Findings revealed that the war and refugee crisis negatively impacted the travel agencies, and managers were put under severe pressure—decreased number of tourists, plummeted total revenue and surged total costs. The findings further contribute to the advancement and strengthening of understanding of the differential impacts of the factors on tour operators/travel agencies by their grouping criteria (license, main market and IATA certification). The travel agencies' performance metrics and operational statistics deteriorated. The managers' responses about predicting the impact of the ongoing crisis also revealed that the effects of the war and refugee crisis would continue in the near future. The contribution and novelty of the research are the advancement of understanding by evaluating refugees and war's holistic repercussions; how the forced migrations have influenced the performance metrics and elaboration of managers' response capability; and unearthing the methods for the forced migrations.
In silico identification and expression analyses of catalases in Tenebrio molitor
Authors: JANG Ho Am , LEE Seo Jin , KOJOUR Maryam Ali Mohammadie , KANG Dong Woo , JUNG Sang Mok , LEE Jongdae , LEE Yong Seok , HAN Yeon Soo , Jo Yong Hun
Published: February 2024

Agricultural intensification has led to significant increases in production, but the overuse of pesticides and associated hazards pose threats to biodiversity and ecological functions. Catalase (CAT), a key antioxidant enzyme, plays a crucial role in alleviating oxidative stress by directly interacting with toxins. In this study, we identified three CAT isoforms in Tenebrio molitor (TmCAT‐iso1, TmCAT‐iso2 and TmCAT‐iso3). These CATs possess a CAT domain, tetramer interface sites and a heme‐binding pocket. We examined the expression of Tm catalases across all developmental stages and in specific tissues using quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) experiments. Our findings demonstrate that TmCAT‐iso1 and TmCAT‐iso3 exhibit peak expression in young and late larval stages, respectively, whereas TmCAT‐iso2 shows peak expression during the egg and pre‐pupal stages. Tissue distribution analysis revealed the high expression of TmCAT‐iso1 and TmCAT‐iso2 in larval hemocytes, whereas TmCAT‐iso3 is predominantly expressed in larval Malpighian tubules. Furthermore, injection with chlorantraniliprole significantly elevated mRNA expression levels of TmCAT‐iso1, TmCAT‐iso2, and TmCAT‐iso3 in larval groups, compared with control groups. Our study highlights the distinct developmental stages and tissues where TmCATs are expressed. We also elucidated the effects of pesticide application on the expression of each TmCAT, revealing the physiological characteristics of CATs in response to these pesticides, which are dose‐ and time‐dependent in T. molitor.
Possibility of growing insect eggs on human cadavers preserved at sub‐zero temperatures for different time intervals
Authors: Alajmi Reem , Aldakheel Sadeem , Al Haidar Fahad , Alkuriji Mohammed , Alotaibi Fayeza , Alajami Mais , El‐Ashram Saeed , Ahmed Ashraf , Arjoun Durrie , Abdel‐Gaber Rewaida
Published: February 2024

Insects are the first arthropods to invade cadavers and, thus, can be used as evidence in criminal investigations. The current study aimed to investigate the possibility of breeding insect eggs in the lab that would be collected from male human cadavers kept in the mortuary refrigerators at sub‐freezing temperatures for different periods. Egg specimens were collected from different human cadavers preserved from −16 to −20°C for different time intervals. All collected eggs were incubated at 25–30°C and 60%–70% and observed until hatched larvae complete their life cycle. All obtained larvae and adults were identified based on morphological characteristics. Data showed that, at selected ranges of temperature and humidity, some eggs were hatched to the first larval stage and then stopped growing, while others completed their life cycle to the adult insect stage. The obtained adult insects were identified using morphological classification and found to belong to Dermestes frischii.
Cortical and subcortical microstructure integrity changes after repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy in cocaine use disorder and relates to clinical outcomes
Authors: Rasgado‐Toledo Jalil , Issa‐Garcia Victor , Alcalá‐Lozano Ruth , Garza‐Villarreal Eduardo A. , González‐Escamilla Gabriel
Published: February 2024

Cocaine use disorder (CUD) is a worldwide public health condition that is suggested to induce pathological changes in macrostructure and microstructure. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has gained attention as a potential treatment for CUD symptoms. Here, we sought to elucidate whether rTMS induces changes in white matter (WM) microstructure in frontostriatal circuits after 2 weeks of therapy in patients with CUD and to test whether baseline WM microstructure of the same circuits affects clinical improvement. This study consisted of a 2‐week, parallel‐group, double‐blind, randomized controlled clinical trial (acute phase) (sham [n = 23] and active [n = 27]), in which patients received two daily sessions of rTMS on the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (lDLPFC) as an add‐on treatment. T1‐weighted and high angular resolution diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI‐HARDI) at baseline and 2 weeks after served to evaluate WM microstructure. After active rTMS, results showed a significant increase in neurite density compared with sham rTMS in WM tracts connecting lDLPFC with left and right ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC). Similarly, rTMS showed a reduction in orientation dispersion in WM tracts connecting lDLPFC with the left caudate nucleus, left thalamus, and left vmPFC. Results also showed a greater reduction in craving Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) after rTMS when baseline intra‐cellular volume fraction (ICVF) was low in WM tracts connecting left caudate nucleus with substantia nigra and left pallidum, as well as left thalamus with substantia nigra and left pallidum. Our results evidence rTMS‐induced WM microstructural changes in fronto‐striato‐thalamic circuits and support its efficacy as a therapeutic tool in treating CUD. Further, individual clinical improvement may rely on the patient's individual structural connectivity integrity.
Serum iron and ferritin levels in female patients with gingivitis and periodontitis
Authors: Ozcan Bulut S , Ozel Ercel N
Published: February 2024

Aim

The aim of the study was to compare serum ferritin and iron levels and periodontal status in pre‐ and post‐menopausal female patients.

Materials and Methods

A total of 108 systemically healthy patients were included in the study, 63 patients in the pre‐menopause group and 45 patients in the post‐menopause group. The periodontal diagnosis was made according to the new periodontal disease classification of the American Academy of Periodontology and the European Federation of Periodontology Serum Iron (μg/dL) and Serum Ferritin (ng/mL) values were analysed in patients divided into groups according to menopausal status and periodontal status.

Result

The mean ferritin in pre‐menopausal women (34.96 ± 27.87 ng/mL) was lower than the mean ferritin in post‐menopausal women (64.24 ± 36.05 ng/mL), and this difference was found to be statistically significant (P<0.001). There was no statistically significant difference between the averages of iron and ferritin according to periodontal diagnosis in pre‐menopausal women (P = 0.200 and P = 0.858). A statistically significant difference was found between serum ferritin averages according to periodontal diagnosis in post‐menopausal women (P < 0.001). Serum ferritin at % Interdental bone loss = 0 in Post‐M was 33.93 ± 8.65 ng/mL; 47.51 ± 16.17 ng/mL in Stage 1 periodontitis; 72.66 ± 18.12 ng/mL in Stage 2 periodontitis; It was found to be 87.4 ± 47.1 ng/mL in Stage 3–4 periodontitis.

Conclusion

Serum ferritin values might vary depending on the presence or severity of periodontitis in post‐menopausal women.
Intraoperative assessment of blood flow using transabdominal ultrasound during laparoscopic surgery of celiac artery compression syndrome
Authors: Hayano Koichi , Kano Masayuki , Matsumoto Yasunori , Kurata Yoshihiro , Otsuka Ryota , Hirata Atsushi , Nakano Akira , Toyozumi Takeshi , Murakami Kentaro , Uesato Masaya , Ohira Gaku , Matsubara Hisahiro
Published: February 2024

Surgical treatment of celiac artery (CA) compression syndrome (CACS) is to release the median arcuate ligament (MAL) by removing the abdominal nerve plexus surrounding CA. In laparoscopic surgery of CACS, objective intraoperative assessment of blood flow in CA is highly desirable. We herein demonstrate a case of laparoscopic surgery of CACS with use of intraoperative transabdominal ultrasound. A 52‐year‐old woman was presented with epigastric pain and vomiting after eating. Contrast‐enhanced computed tomography demonstrated significant stenosis at the origin of CA. Doppler study of CA was also performed, and she was diagnosed as CACS. Laparoscopic surgery was performed, and the MAL was divided. And then, Doppler study using intraoperative transabdominal ultrasound confirmed the successful decompression of CA. This patient was discharged on postoperative day 11, and her symptoms was improved. Intraoperative assessment of blood flow in CA using transabdominal ultrasound was a simple and useful method for laparoscopic surgery of CACS.
Surgical proficiency in laparoscopic radical cystectomy with extracorporeal urinary diversion and its adequacy for the execution of robot‐assisted radical cystectomy with intracorporeal urinary diversion
Authors: Suzuki Atsuto , Ito Hiroki , Uemura Koichi , Muraoka Kentaro , Tatenuma Tomoyuki , Osaka Kimito , Yokomizo Yumiko , Hayashi Narihiko , Hasumi Hisashi , Makiyama Kazuhide
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The number of facilities adopting intracorporeal urinary diversion (ICUD) using robots instead of extracorporeal urinary diversion (ECUD) is increasing. However, guidance on how to introduce robot‐assisted radical cystectomy (RARC) + ICUD in each urological institute remains unclear. This study aimed to verify the feasibility of the transition from laparoscopic radical cystectomy (LRC) + ECUD to RARC + ICUD.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 26 consecutive patients who underwent ICUD with an ileal conduit after RARC between 2018 and 2020 (RARC + ICUD early group). We then compared these patients with 26 consecutive patients who underwent ECUD with an ileal conduit after LRC between 2012 and 2019 (LRC + ECUD late group) at Yokohama City University Hospital.

Results

In the RARC + ICUD early group compared with the LRC + ECUD late group, the median total operation time was 516 versus 532.5 min (P = .217); time to cystectomy, 191 versus 206.5 min (P = .234); time of urinary diversion with an ileal conduit, 198 versus 220 min (P = .016); postoperative maximum C‐reactive protein levels, 6.98 versus 12.46 mg/L (P = .001); number of days to oral intake, 3 versus 5 days (P = .003); length of hospital stay, 17 versus 32 days (P < .001). The postoperative complication rates (within 90 days) were 23.1% and 42.3% in the RARC + ICUD early and LRC + ECUD late groups, respectively (P = .237). Clavien–Dindo classification ≥3 was noted in 1 and 4 patients in the RARC + ICUD early and LRC + ECUD late groups, respectively (P = .350).

Conclusion

Regarding perioperative outcomes, the RARC + ICUD early group was not inferior to the LRC + ECUD late group. This study suggests the feasibility of a transition from LRC + ECUD to RARC + ICUD.
Minimally invasive total pelvic exenteration for symptomatic locally advanced prostate cancer with rectal invasion: Indications and technical considerations
Authors: Kanno Toru , Otsuka Kazuo , Saito Ryoichi , Ito Katsuhiro , Koterazawa Shigeki , Somiya Shinya , Haitani Takao , Higashi Yoshihito , Yamada Hitoshi
Published: February 2024

In cases of rectal invasion by locally invasive prostate cancer (LAPC) leading to severe pain or bleeding, total pelvic exenteration (TPE) is necessary. Here, we present two cases of successful minimally invasive TPE: one performed laparoscopically for local recurrence with rectal bleeding after laparoscopic radical prostatectomy, and another done robotically for LAPC (clinical T4N1M0) accompanied by rectal bleeding. Medical treatments were ineffective in the latter case, and the tumor occupied a significant portion of the pelvis. We adopted a simultaneous transperineal approach and performed intracorporeal ileal conduit formation. Our cases highlight the challenging nature of minimally invasive TPE for symptomatic LAPC. Despite its complexity, these techniques prove viable and valuable in managing LAPC‐related symptoms, emphasizing their practical utility in clinical settings.
Anodal transcranial direct‐current stimulation for autism spectrum disorder: A promising approach?
Authors: Brunoni André Russowsky , Santos Jônatas Magalhães
Published: February 2024

This commentary is on the original article by Ratsapbhayakul et al. on pages 1244–1254 of this issue.
The use of dietary supplements, and the association between supplemental vitamin D and glycaemic control in adult individuals with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Ahola Aila J. , Harjutsalo Valma , Groop Per‐Henrik ,   the FinnDiane Study Group
Published: February 2024

Aims

To assess the dietary supplement use in adult individuals with type 1 diabetes, and to study the association between vitamin D supplementation and glycaemic control in an observational cross‐sectional study.

Methods

The study subjects were participants of the Finnish Diabetic Nephropathy Study. Data were included from all individuals with type 1 diabetes with estimated glomerular filtration rate ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2, who had completed a diet questionnaire. In the questionnaire, the participants reported dietary supplement use for the past 30 days. A thorough investigation with an assessment of the blood panel was conducted at the study visit.

Results

Data were available from 1181 individuals (43% men, mean ± SD age 45 ± 13 years). Altogether 62% of the sample reported supplement use; 56% reported some vitamin or mineral and 27% reported non‐vitamin and non‐mineral supplement use. Supplement use was more frequent among women and those supplementing had better overall health. In the study sample, of the vitamins and minerals, vitamin D (45%) and magnesium (31%), respectively, were the most frequently reported. In the multivariable models, vitamin D supplementation was associated with better glycaemic control. Starting from a daily dose of ≥30 μg, there was evidence of improving glycaemic control with higher doses of supplemental vitamin D (e.g., for 30 μg: B [Wald Confidence Internal], p‐value, −2.76 [−5.03 to −0.49], 0.017).

Conclusions

Supplement use was frequent in this sample of adult individuals with type 1 diabetes. Due to potential drug–supplement interactions, the attending physicians should be aware of their patients' supplement use. The causality between vitamin D supplementation and glycaemic control should be assessed in a randomized controlled trial.
Changes in soil organic carbon and microbial community in saline soil following different forms of straw incorporation
Authors: Fan Ting , Zhang Yulin , Hu Kexin , Xu Shiqi , Zhang Afeng , Xue Shaoqi , Han Jiale , Wang Xudong
Published: February 2024

Straw has been commonly incorporated into soil to increase soil organic carbon (SOC) content. However, the response and mechanism of organic carbon transformation following the addition of different forms of straw to saline soil to have not been fully evaluated. Thus, in our study, chopped wheat straw, granular wheat straw and wheat straw biochar were used as exogenous organic amendments. The carbon‐to‐nitrogen ratio of each form of straw was adjusted to 25:1. Under the same amount of carbon input, the three forms of straw were added to saline soil for a one‐year incubation experiment. The research focused on studying the changes in SOC transformation, enzyme activity, and microbial community structure. At the end of incubation, both granular and biochar straw treatments had significantly increased SOC relative to the unamended control, with extent of SOC increase greater in the biochar straw treatment. The biochar straw treatment also had significantly higher dissolved organic carbon than the other treatments at end of the incubation. The enzyme activity of β‐cellobiohyrolase (CBH) was the highest in the granular straw treatment, which was increased by 71.9% compared with the chopped straw treatment (p < 0.05). The cumulative carbon mineralization amount (Cum C) in the granular straw treatment was the highest, which was increased by 757.4% and 21.3% compared with the biochar straw and chopped straw treatments, respectively (p < 0.05). The Mantel test analysis further revealed significant correlations between soil bacterial community and SOC content in soils treated with different straw incorporation forms, as well as between fungal community and extracellular enzyme activities. We assumed that a possible reason for the high SOC mineralization amount in the granular straw treatment was changing the structure of the Bacteroidota in the bacterial phylum and Blastocladiomycota in the fungal phylum. Based on these findings, it is believed that adding biochar can increase the SOC content, but its utilization by microorganisms is limited. However, applying granular straw will not have a negative impact on its use as a microbial carbon source, thereby promoting carbon transformation. Therefore, in future research aimed at enhancing soil fertility in saline soil regions, the adoption of granular straw as an agricultural practice is recommended and should be promoted.
The rise of ‘infrastructural populism’: Urban infrastructure and right‐wing politics
Authors: Beveridge Ross , Naumann Matthias , Rudolph David
Published: February 2024

Right‐wing populism has become increasingly embedded in contemporary political systems. It poses challenges not only for societies but also for geographical analysis. This review article develops a fresh perspective through examining how right‐wing populists are engaging with urban infrastructure. Examining the literature on populism and urban infrastructure we outline ‘infrastructural populism’, a general heuristic to understand an emerging agenda of right‐wing politics. Four political fields are identified: (i) urban infrastructure as a field of morals to frame the ‘people’ and the ‘elite’, (ii) urban infrastructure as a field of ideological struggle, (iii) urban infrastructure as a field of national statecraft and (iv) urban infrastructure as a field of everyday practices and politics. The review throws new light on right‐wing populism by showing how central infrastructure is becoming to its contemporary articulations, and how the inherently elusive and extensive qualities of populism result in often contradictory political agendas that are both aligned with and articulated against existing politics of urban infrastructure.
Removal of autumn‐growth herbage using sheep: Effects on yield and quality of first cut silage and subsequent cow performance
Authors: Craig Aimee‐Louise , Gordon Alan W. , Ferris Conrad P.
Published: February 2024

Grass which grows during the autumn is perceived by some farmers to have a negative impact on the nutritive value of silage produced the following spring. The impact of removing herbage in the autumn using sheep, on silage yield and quality the following spring, and on performance of cows offered these silages, was investigated in two experiments. Following harvest of third‐cut silage in September, a grass sward was split into blocks which were either grazed by sheep during November and December or left ungrazed. Herbage was harvested and ensiled the following May and offered to late‐lactation Holstein cows in a two‐period balanced change‐over design feeding experiment comprising two 28‐d periods. In Experiment 1, silage quality was unaffected by autumn grazing treatment but in Experiment 2, silage from swards grazed in autumn had a higher metabolizable energy concentration (0.5 MJ kg−1 dry matter [DM]; p = .016). In Experiment 1, intakes were unaffected, while cows offered silage from the grazed sward (GS) had a greater milk (0.8 kg d−1; p < .001) and protein yield (0.03 kg d−1; p = .014) than cows offered silage from the ungrazed sward, but fat plus protein yield was unaffected. In Experiment 2, cows offered GS had greater DM intake (1.5 kg d−1; p < .001) and fat yield (0.15 kg d−1; p = .047), but fat plus protein yield was not significantly different between treatments. In conclusion, winter grazing using sheep has potential to improve silage quality, but with marginal benefits on individual cow performance.
Effects of workplace ageism on negative perception of aging and subjective well‐being of older adults according to gender and employment status
Authors: Takeuhi Masumi , Katagiri Keiko
Published: February 2024

Aim

According to stereotype embodiment theory, workplace ageism can worsen older adults' self‐perceptions of aging and subjective well‐being. However, there has been little research on gender differences in this regard. This study examined the effects of workplace ageism on attitudes toward aging and subjective well‐being according to gender and employment status.

Methods

We carried out an online survey of 600 participants aged 60–74 years in October 2021. Participants were equally divided into women who had worked full‐time, women who had worked part‐time and men who had worked full‐time, and further divided by current employment status, forming a total of six groups for comparison.

Results

A total of 75% of the participants perceived some form of workplace ageism. Structural equation modeling showed that, for men and women in full‐time employment, workplace ageism was associated with a negative self‐perception of aging and poor subjective well‐being, the effect of which was strong among those currently employed and weak among those who had retired. For women working part‐time, the impact of workplace ageism on subjective well‐being was stronger among those who were currently unemployed.

Conclusion

Workplace ageism exacerbates older adults' self‐perception of aging and decreases their subjective well‐being. Women working part‐time might quit their jobs when their subjective well‐being worsens due to workplace ageism. Therefore, it is necessary to create a workplace environment that is comfortable for older workers and free of ageism. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 259–265.
Successful twin pregnancy in a woman undergoing alternate diurnal and nocturnal hemodialysis
Authors: Desbuissons Geoffroy , Ngango Liliane , Baudeau Christophe , Fournier Philippe
Published: February 2024

Although pregnancy has become more frequent in patients undergoing hemodialysis, it remains a relatively rare event and carries a high risk of complications for both the mother and the fetus. In parallel, multiple pregnancies are also associated with a high risk of complications for the mother and the fetus, even in healthy women. The presence of a twin pregnancy in a woman with chronic renal failure undergoing hemodialysis is an even rarer event and is considered a very high‐risk situation. We describe the case of a 31‐year‐old hemodialysis patient who successfully gave birth to twins at 29 weeks after a period of alternate diurnal and nocturnal hemodialysis.
The role of germination in changes in bioactive properties, polyphenols and biogenic elements of raw and germinated barley (Hordeum vulgare) parts
Authors: Mohamed Ahmed Isam A. , AlJuhaimi Fahad , Özcan Mehmet Musa , Uslu Nurhan , Karrar Emad
Published: February 2024

In this study, the effect of germination in changes on total phenol, flavonoid contents, antioxidant capacity, polyphenols and biogenic elements of raw and germinated barley parts (radicle, foliole and germinated grain) was investigated. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents of raw and germinated barley parts were recorded to be between 97.61 (foliole) and 164.44 mgGAE/100 g (radicle) to 38.93 (germinated barley grain) and 371.07 mg/100 g (radicle), respectively. Antioxidant capacity results (DPPH and ABTS assays) were recorded between 3.37 (germinated barley grain) and 4.82 mmol kg−1 (radicle) to 0.79 (germinated barley grain) and 2.28 mmol kg−1 (radicle), respectively. The highest total phenol and flavonoid content as well as antioxidant capacity values were detected in radicle. Catechin and kaempferol values of raw and germinated barley parts (radicle, foliole and germinated barley grain) were recorded between 5.85 (germinated barley grain) and 19.71 mg/100 g (radicle) to 3.91 (germinated barley grain) and 4.62 mg/100 g (foliole), respectively. Gallic acid results of barley samples varied between 0.72 (germinated barley grain) and 10.95 mg/100 g (radicle). The phenolic compounds detected in the highest amounts in raw and germinated barley parts were catechin, kaempferol and gallic acid. P and K results of raw (control) and germinated barley parts were recorded to be between 727.64 (foliole) and 2078.10 mg kg−1 (control) to 955.40 (germinated barley grain) and 3982.63 mg kg−1 (control), respectively. As a micro elements, Fe and Zn results of barley samples were identified between 2.95 (foliole) and 14.30 mg kg−1 (control) to 6.26 (foliole) and 24.84 mg kg−1 (control), respectively. Significant decreases in macro and micro element contents were observed during the germination of barley grain compared to the control.
The effect of social appearance anxiety and body perception on the quality of life in burn patients
Authors: Yeşilyurt İlayda , Kendirkıran Gülcan
Published: February 2024

This study was conducted with a descriptive and cross‐sectional design to demonstrate the effect of social appearance anxiety and body perception on quality of life in burn patients. The study was conducted in the intensive care units and burn clinic of Elazığ Fırat University Hospital between 17 February 2022 and 30 April 2022. Data were collected from 94 burn patients using the Personal Information Form, Social Appearance Anxiety Scale, Body‐Cathexis Scale and Quality of Life Scale‐Short Form. Most participants were 30 years old and under, male, married, had no children and had an education level of high school or below. Most had social security and an income equal to their expenses. They were not uncomfortable with coming to the hospital, and 1–3 months had passed since the burn incident. They did not spend time outside, and most had no part of their bodies that they did not like, while 26.1% did not like their feet. A negative relationship was detected between the Social Appearance Anxiety Scale and Body‐Cathexis Scale, and a positive relationship between the total and sub‐dimensions of the Quality of Life Scale (p > 0.05). There was a negative relationship between the Body‐Cathexis Scale and the Quality of Life Scale total and sub‐dimensions (p < 0.05), and a positive relationship between the total and sub‐dimensions of the Quality of Life Scale (p < 0.05).
Integrated genetic analysis of diabetic complications: Bioinformatics insights into foot ulcers, neuropathy and peripheral artery disease
Authors: Liang Jiaru , Gong Xiaoyang , Hu Xuyang , You Chong , Zhou Jiaqi , Gao Yuling , Zong Junwei , Liu Yong
Published: February 2024

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFU), diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) and peripheral arterial disease (PAD) are common complications of diabetes mellitus, while diabetic peripheral neuropathy and peripheral arterial disease contribute to the pathogenesis of diabetic foot ulcers, and the pathogenic mechanisms between these three diseases still need further investigation. The keywords ‘diabetic foot ulcer’, ‘diabetic peripheral neuropathy’ and ‘atherosclerosis’ were used to search for related gene sets in the GEO database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened and analysed for GO, KEGG and enrichR functional enrichment. Potential three disease biomarkers were identified by SVM‐SVM‐RFE and LASSO regression analysis. The results were also validated using external datasets and discriminability was measured by area under the ROC curve (AUC). Finally, biomarkers and co‐upregulated genes were analysed through the GSEA and Attie Laboratories diabetes databases. A total of 11 shared genes (KRT16, CD24, SAMD9L, SRGAP2, FGL2, GPR34, DDIT4, NFE2L3, FBLN5, ANXA3 and CPA3), two biomarkers (SAMD9L and FGL2) and one co‐upregulated gene (CD24) were screened. GO and KEGG pathway analysis of DEGs, enrichr enrichment analysis of shared differential genes and GSEA analysis of biomarkers showed that these significant genes were mainly focused on vasoregulatory, inflammatory‐oxidative stress and immunomodulatory pathways. In this study, we used bioinformatics to investigate the intrinsic relationship and potential mechanisms of three common lower extremity complications of diabetes and identified two pivotal genes using the LASSO model and the SVM‐RFE algorithm, which will further help clinicians to understand the relationship between diabetic complications, improve the diagnosis and treatment of diabetic foot problems and help doctors to identify the potential risk factors of diabetic foot.
Healing of diabetic foot ulcer with topical and oral administrations of herbal products: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Zamanifard Mina , Nasiri Morteza , Yarahmadi Fatemeh , Zonoori Sahar , Razani Omolbanin , Salajegheh Zahra , Imanipour Mohammad , Mohammadi Seyed Mohammad , Jomehzadeh Nabi , Asadi Masoomeh
Published: February 2024

This systematic review aimed to qualitatively synthesize recent randomized controlled trials (RCTs) regarding the effect of topical application and oral intake of herbal products on the healing of diabetic foot ulcer (DFU). Also, we sought to pool the obtained findings in a meta‐analysis using a random‐effects model, if RCTs were relatively comparable and homogenous. A comprehensive search was performed on five electronic data sources from their inception through 23 January 2024. The RCTs, without restriction on the country of origin, were included if they compared the effect of administering standard treatments and/or placebo (i.e. control condition) to applying standard treatments and/or herbal products in topical or oral routes (i.e. experimental condition). Out of 1166 retrieved records, 28 RCTs were included. Studies used different poly and single herbal formulations. Based on the meta‐analysis, administration of standard care plus daily dressing of the ulcer site with olive oil for 28 days significantly increased the total ulcer healing score (3 RCTs; weighted mean difference [WMD] = 89.30; p < 0.001), raised frequency of complete ulcer healing (2 RCTs; risk ratio [RR] = 12.44; p = 0.039) and declined ulcer degree (3 RCTs; WMD = −22.28; p = 0.002). Also, daily use of the bitter melon leaf extract in oral form for 28 days significantly increased the total ulcer healing score (2 RCTs; WMD = 0.40; p = 0.001). Additionally, based on qualitative synthesis, the adjuvant use of herbal agents seems an intriguing choice to manage DFU. Nonetheless, considering the undesirable methodological quality of most studies and the high heterogeneity in administered herbal formulations, more robust trials are required to build a solid conclusion regarding the use of herbal products for healing DFU.
Effect of wound drainage on the wound infection and healing in patients undergoing spinal surgery: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Yang Huiming , Bao Lizhen , Li Jianchun , Wang Yipeng , Yang Jun
Published: February 2024

A meta‐analysis was conducted to comprehensively evaluate the impact of wound drainage on postoperative wound infection and healing in patients undergoing spinal surgery. Computer searches were performed, from database inception to October 2023, in EMBASE, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, PubMed, Wanfang and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases for studies related to the application of wound drainage in spinal surgery. Two researchers independently screened the literature, extracted data and conducted quality assessments. Stata 17.0 software was employed for data analysis. Overall, 11 articles involving 2102 spinal surgery patients were included. The analysis showed that, compared to other treatment methods, the use of wound drainage in spinal surgery patients significantly shortened the wound healing time (standardized mean difference [SMD]: −1.35, 95% confidence intervals [CI]: −1.91 to −0.79, p < 0.001). However, there was no statistical difference in the incidence of wound infection (odds ratio: 1.35, 95% CI: 0.83–2.19, p = 0.226). This study indicates that wound drainage in patients undergoing spinal surgery is effective, can accelerate wound healing and is worth promoting in clinical practice.
Still water run deep: Therapeutic TP effect of ucMSC‐Ex via regulating mTOR to enhance autophagy
Authors: Zhao Zhirong , Han Li , Xin Mei , Zhou Lichen , Jiang Kexin , Huang Qian , Dai Ruiwu
Published: February 2024

Our previous study confirmed that umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells‐exosomes (ucMSC‐Ex) inhibit apoptosis of pancreatic acinar cells to exert protective effects. However, the relationship between apoptosis and autophagy in traumatic pancreatitis (TP) has rarely been reported. We dissected the transcriptomics after pancreatic trauma and ucMSC‐Ex therapy by high‐throughput sequencing. Additionally, we used rapamycin and MHY1485 to regulate mTOR. HE, inflammatory factors and pancreatic enzymatic assays were used to comprehensively determine the local versus systemic injury level, fluorescence staining and electron microscopy were used to detect the effect of autophagy, and observe the expression levels of autophagy‐related markers at the gene and protein levels. High‐throughput sequencing identified that autophagy played a crucial role in the pathophysiological process of TP and ucMSC‐Ex therapy. The results of electron microscopy, immunofluorescence staining, polymerase chain reaction and western blot suggested that therapeutic effect of ucMSC‐Ex was mediated by activation of autophagy in pancreatic acinar cells through inhibition of mTOR. ucMSC‐Ex can attenuate pancreas injury by inhibiting mTOR to regulate acinar cell autophagy after TP. Future studies will build on the comprehensive sequencing of RNA carried by ucMSC‐Ex to predict and verify specific non‐coding RNA.
Argument‐Based Approach to Validity: Developing a Living Document and Incorporating Preregistration
Authors: Gerasimova Daria
Published: February 2024

I propose two practical advances to the argument‐based approach to validity: developing a living document and incorporating preregistration. First, I present a potential structure for the living document that includes an up‐to‐date summary of the validity argument. As the validation process may span across multiple studies, the living document allows future users of the instrument to access the entire validity argument in one place. Second, I describe how preregistration can be incorporated in the argument‐based approach. Specifically, I distinguish between two types of preregistration: preregistration of the argument and preregistration of validation studies. Preregistration of the argument is a single preregistration that is specified for the entire validation process. Here, the developer specifies interpretations, uses, and claims before collecting validity evidence. Preregistration of a validation study refers to preregistering a single validation study that aims to evaluate a set of claims. Here, the developer describes study components (e.g., research design, data collection, data analysis, etc.), before collecting data. Both preregistration types have the potential to reduce the risk of bias (e.g., hindsight and confirmation biases), as well as to allow others to evaluate the risk of bias and, hence, calibrate confidence, in the developer's evaluation of the validity argument.
An alfalfa MYB‐like transcriptional factor MsMYBH positively regulates alfalfa seedling drought resistance and undergoes MsWAV3‐mediated degradation
Authors: Shi Kun , Liu Jia , Liang Huan , Dong Hongbin , Zhang Jinli , Wei Yuanhong , Zhou Le , Wang Shaopeng , Zhu Jiahao , Cao Mingshu , Jones Chris S. , Ma Dongmei , Wang Zan
Published: February 2024

Drought is a major threat to alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) production. The discovery of important alfalfa genes regulating drought response will facilitate breeding for drought‐resistant alfalfa cultivars. Here, we report a genome‐wide association study of drought resistance in alfalfa. We identified and functionally characterized an MYB‐like transcription factor gene (MsMYBH), which increases the drought resistance in alfalfa. Compared with the wild‐types, the biomass and forage quality were enhanced in MsMYBH overexpressed plants. Combined RNA‐seq, proteomics and chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis showed that MsMYBH can directly bind to the promoters of MsMCP1, MsMCP2, MsPRX1A and MsCARCAB to improve their expression. The outcomes of such interactions include better water balance, high photosynthetic efficiency and scavenge excess H2O2 in response to drought. Furthermore, an E3 ubiquitin ligase (MsWAV3) was found to induce MsMYBH degradation under long‐term drought, via the 26S proteasome pathway. Furthermore, variable‐number tandem repeats in MsMYBH promoter were characterized among a collection of germplasms, and the variation is associated with promoter activity. Collectively, our findings shed light on the functions of MsMYBH and provide a pivotal gene that could be leveraged for breeding drought‐resistant alfalfa. This discovery also offers new insights into the mechanisms of drought resistance in alfalfa.
Characteristics and Outcomes of Postgraduate Midwifery Fellowships: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Olsen Jessica Lyn , Farley Cindy L.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Postgraduate fellowships are growing in midwifery and yet are poorly understood by the profession. These fellowships are optional for midwives interested in developing advanced skills, transitioning to specialty practice, or entering or re‐entering professional practice. The purpose of this study was to explore the characteristics and outcomes of US postgraduate midwifery fellowships as described by midwifery fellowship program directors.

Methods

Postgraduate midwifery fellowship programs in the United States were identified through an environmental scan and snowball sampling. Directors of these fellowship programs were invited to complete a survey and an open‐ended interview to determine their program's characteristics and outcomes. Quantitative data were summarized, and thematic analysis was used to explore the qualitative data.

Results

An environmental scan and snowball sampling identified 17 postgraduate midwifery fellowship programs. Thirteen fellowship program directors completed a survey (76.5%), and 11 completed an interview (64.7%). The findings identified program characteristics, including location, structure, funding, and educational offerings, of midwifery fellowship programs. The thematic analysis revealed the emergence of 3 themes highlighting the creation of support for midwives in transition, including new graduates and practicing midwives returning to practice after a hiatus or shifting to specialty practice: (1) stepping stones, (2) empowered and equipped, and (3) innovative future. Community birth practice was defined as specialty practice by these directors.

Discussion

The results of this study inform the profession of the availability of fellowships and the development of future high‐quality midwifery fellowships. Postgraduate midwifery fellowships should not be required for entry to practice but have a place in the work‐study opportunities available to US midwives.