bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sales forecasting of selected fresh vegetables in multiple channels for marginal and small-scale farmers in Kerala, India
Authors: Sreerag R.S. , Shanmugam Prasanna Venkatesan
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The choice of a sales channel for fresh vegetables is an important decision a farmer can make. Typically, the farmers rely on their personal experience in directing the produce to a sales channel. This study examines how sales forecasting of fresh vegetables along multiple channels enables marginal and small-scale farmers to maximize their revenue by proportionately allocating the produce considering their short shelf life.

Design/methodology/approach

Machine learning models, namely long short-term memory (LSTM), convolution neural network (CNN) and traditional methods such as autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) and weighted moving average (WMA) are developed and tested for demand forecasting of vegetables through three different channels, namely direct (Jaivasree), regulated (World market) and cooperative (Horticorp).

Findings

The results show that machine learning methods (LSTM/CNN) provide better forecasts for regulated (World market) and cooperative (Horticorp) channels, while traditional moving average yields a better result for direct (Jaivasree) channel where the sales volume is less as compared to the remaining two channels.

Research limitations/implications

The price of vegetables is not considered as the government sets the base price for the vegetables.

Originality/value

The existing literature lacks models and approaches to predict the sales of fresh vegetables for marginal and small-scale farmers of developing economies like India. In this research, the authors forecast the sales of commonly used fresh vegetables for small-scale farmers of Kerala in India based on a set of 130 weekly time series data obtained from the Kerala Horticorp.
Identifying online purchasing intention in Egypt: a fuzzy set qualitative comparative approach
Authors: Aref Mayada
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The diffusion of electronic commerce has a notable impact on the economy's prosperity. This paper embraces complexity theory principles to examine the factors affecting Internet users' acceptance and use of electronic retailers. It is essential for the sustainability of electronic retailers to understand the motivations impacting online consumer behaviour. Symmetrical and asymmetrical methods are combined to examine the relationship between perceived ease of use, perceived enjoyment, web characteristics, online consumer reviews (OCRs) and online purchase intention. Further, symmetry and differences between males and females were examined.

Design/methodology/approach

Data collected from 425 online consumers using an online structured survey was analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM) and fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA). The net effects and causal configurations of the four proposed variables and online purchase intention were examined.

Findings

The SEM findings confirmed the significance of perceived enjoyment, website characteristics and OCRs on online purchase intention. Perceived enjoyment mediated the relationship between perceived ease of use and online purchase intention. The multi-group analysis confirmed the difference in antecedent impacts between males and females. The fsQCA findings revealed that multiple recipes lead to the occurrence of online purchase intention; in addition, the recipes leading to its absence do not mirror the previous ones.

Originality/value

The present study embraces complexity theory concepts in understanding online purchase intention using fsQCA methodology; further, the role of gender in online consumer behaviour was highlighted in the result discussion.
CircMAP3K5 promotes cardiomyocyte apoptosis in diabetic cardiomyopathy by regulating miR‐22‐3p/DAPK2 Axis
Authors: Shen Ming , Wu Yuanbin , Li Libing , Zhang Liyue , Liu Gang , Wang Rong
Published: September 2023

Background

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is one of the serious complications of the accumulated cardiovascular system in the long course of diabetes. To date, there is no effective treatment available for DCM. Circular RNA (circRNA) is a novel r2egulatory RNA that participates in a variety of cardiac pathological processes. However, the regulatory role of circular RNA MAP3K5 (circMAP3K5) in DCM is largely unclear.

Methods and Results

Microarray analysis of DCM rats' heart circular RNAs was performed and the highly species‐conserved circRNA mitogen‐activated protein kinase kinase kinase 5 (circMAP3K5) was identified, which participates in DCM processes. High glucose‐provoked cardiotoxicity leads to the up‐regulation of circMAP3K5, which mechanistically contributes to cardiomyocyte cell death. Also, in high glucose‐induced H9c2 cardiomyocytes, the level of apoptosis was significantly increased, as well as the expression of circMAP3K5. In contrast, the depletion of circMAP3K5 could reduce high glucose‐induced apoptosis in cardiomyocytes. In terms of mechanism, circMAP3K5 acts as a miR‐22‐3p sponge and miR‐22‐3p directly target death‐associated protein kinase 2 (DAPK2) in H9c2 cardiomyocytes, where in circMAP3K5 upregulates DAPK2 expression by targeting miR‐22‐3p. Moreover, we also found that miR‐22‐3p inhibitor and pcDNA DAPK2 could antagonize the protective effects brought by the depletion of circMAP3K5.

Conclusion

CircMAP3K5 is a highly conserved noncoding RNA that is upregulated during DCM process. We concluded that circMAP3K5 promotes high glucose‐induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis by regulating the miR‐22‐3p/DAPK2 axis. The results of this study highlight a novel and translationally important circMAP3K5‐based therapeutic approach for DCM.
Do patient characteristics affect EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor treatment outcomes? A network meta‐analysis of real‐world survival outcomes of East Asian patients with advanced non‐small cell lung cancer treated with first‐line EGFR‐TKIs
Authors: Chang Huang‐Chih , Wang Chin‐Chou , Tseng Chia‐Cheng , Huang Kuo‐Tung , Chen Yu‐Mu , Chang Yu‐Ping , Lai Chien‐Hao , Fang Wen‐Feng , Lin Meng‐Chih , Chuang Hung‐Yi
Published: September 2023

Background

Despite the well‐established efficacies of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)‐mutated non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), there is limited real‐world evidence comparing their effectiveness according to patients’ clinical characteristics. This network meta‐analysis (NMA) compared survival outcomes among first‐line EGFR‐TKIs in different subgroups of East Asian patients with advanced NSCLC.

Methods

This NMA included real‐world observational studies reporting outcomes with TKIs in patients aged >65 years, with baseline brain metastasis, with different Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) statuses, or with different common EGFR mutation types.

Results

In patients with the EGFR L858R mutation, afatinib resulted in significantly longer progression‐free survival (PFS) than erlotinib (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.59, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.46–0.75) and gefitinib (HR: 0.41, 95% CI: 0.32–0.53). Similarly, in patients with the EGFR Del19 mutation, afatinib and erlotinib resulted in significantly longer PFS than gefitinib (HR: 0.48 with 95% CI: 0.33–0.71 and HR: 0.54 with 95% CI: 0.36–0.80, respectively). Moreover, afatinib resulted in significantly longer PFS than gefitinib in patients with brain metastasis (HR: 0.53, 95% CI: 0.33–0.87) or ECOG status 0–1 (HR: 0.37, 95% CI: 0.23–0.59).

Conclusion

This NMA suggests that afatinib results in similar PFS to erlotinib and superior PFS than gefitinib in patients with Del19 mutant NSCLC, aged ≥65 years, with ECOG scores of 0–1, and with baseline brain metastasis.
Increasing incidence of endometrial cancer in Aotearoa New Zealand: Health professionals' perspective
Authors: Williams Linda , Henry Claire , Simcock Bryony , Filoche Sara
Published: September 2023

Background

The incidence of endometrial cancer is globally increasing. Aotearoa New Zealand is no exception with a 59% increase in cases over that last ten years.

Aims

We report a sub‐set of themes which pertain to provider reflections of rising endometrioid‐type endometrial cancer incidence in individuals with high weight.

Materials and Methods

Fifteen semi‐structured interviews with healthcare professionals experienced in providing care to women with endometrial cancer were audio‐recorded and transcribed. Interviews were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Two main themes emerged: (1) concerns for the future; and (2) impact on fertility and treatment options. Healthcare professionals discussed rising incidence in younger people and a need for increased awareness about the association of excess weight as a risk factor for developing the disease. The concern extended to workforce and equipment shortfalls of meeting the needs of individuals with higher weight, which subsequently influenced treatment options, health outcomes and survivorship.

Conclusions

Rising incidence of endometrial cancer in individuals with high weight presents multiple chances for inequitable access and health outcomes over the care continuum for endometrial cancer. Action is required to address incidence, awareness, access to equitable and inclusive treatment, and survivorship.
Strengthening the social information processing skills of third graders in rural China: Findings of ‘Let's Be Friends (Shaanxi), Trial 2’
Authors: Peng Jin , Li Na , Sun Xiaodong , Guo Shenyang
Published: September 2023

This study presents the findings of Let's Be Friends (Shaanxi), Trial 2 (LBF2), which is a second test of the school‐based intervention. Let's Be Friends (LBF) is designed to promote social competence and prevent maladaptive behaviour by strengthening the social information processing (SIP) skills of third‐grade children in rural China. A cluster‐matched design with random sampling was used in LBF2. Two rural counties in China were selected by purposive sampling (one is the treatment site, and another is the control site). Nine treatment schools (n = 343) were selected by random sampling. Fifteen control schools (n = 369) were selected by using vector‐norm matching. All children of the third grade, ages 8–10, in the treatment schools received 12 sessions of LBF2 intervention. Skill‐level Activity Scale and the Carolina Child Checklist–Teacher Form were employed to measure children's SIP skills and aggressive behaviour. LBF2 promoted the improvement of study children's SIP skills and effectively improved children's authority acceptance. LBF has the potential to be applied in China.
Melatonin regulates the circadian rhythm to ameliorate postoperative sleep disorder and neurobehavioral abnormalities in aged mice
Authors: Jia Xixi , Song Yanan , Li Zhengqian , Yang Ning , Liu Taotao , Han Dengyang , Sun Zhuonan , Shi Chengmei , Zhou Yang , Shi Jie , Liu Yajie , Guo Xiangyang
Published: September 2023

Background

Postoperative sleep disorder (PSD) and delirium, which may be associated with surgery and inhalational anesthetics, induce adverse effects in old adults. Emerging evidence indicates that circadian rhythm contributes to various neuropathological diseases, including Alzheimer's disease. Thus, we analyzed the potential role of circadian rhythm in PSD and delirium‐like behavior in aged mice and determined whether exogenous melatonin could facilitate entrainment of the circadian rhythm after laparotomy under sevoflurane anesthesia.

Methods

We selected old C57BL/6J mice which receiving laparotomy/sevoflurane anesthesia as model animals. We employed buried food, open field, and Y maze test to assess delirium‐like behavior, and electroencephalography/electromyography (EEG/EMG) were used to investigate sleep changes. We analyzed the transcription rhythm of clock genes in superchiasmatic nucleus (SCN) to explore the effects of surgery and melatonin pretreatment on the circadian rhythm. Then, we measured melatonin receptor levels in SCN and ERK/CREB pathway‐related proteins in hippocampus and prefrontal cortex to assess their role in PSDs and delirium‐like behavior.

Results

Laparotomy under sevoflurane anesthesia had a greater influence than sevoflurane alone, leading to sleep disorder, a shift in sleep–wake rhythm, and delirium‐like behavior. Bmal1, Clock, and Cry1 mRNA expression showed a peak shift, MT1 melatonin receptor expression level was increased in the SCN, and p‐ERK/ERK and p‐CREB/CREB were decreased in hippocampus and prefrontal cortex of aged mice 1 day after laparotomy. Melatonin showed significant efficacy in ameliorating PSD and delirium‐like behavior and restoring the circadian rhythm, reversing melatonin receptor and ERK/CREB pathway expression abnormalities. In addition, most of the beneficial effect of melatonin was antagonized by luzindole, a melatonin receptor antagonist.

Conclusions

Melatonin receptors in SCN, circadian rhythm, and ERK/CREB signaling pathway participate in the pathophysiological processes of PSD and delirium‐like behavior. Melatonin intervention could be a potential preventative approach for PSD and delirium.
Risk of thyroid cancer associated with glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists and dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors in patients with type 2 diabetes: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Bea Sungho , Son Heejun , Bae Jae Hyun , Cho Sun Wook , Shin Ju‐Young , Cho Young Min
Published: September 2023

Aims

To determine the potential association between the use of either glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RAs) or dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 (DPP‐4) inhibitors, and the risk of thyroid cancer in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

Materials and Methods

This population‐based cohort study used claims data from the Korean National Health Insurance Database, 2014‐2020. Two distinct cohorts were established to compare each incretin‐based drug with sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 (SGLT2) inhibitors, chosen as active comparators because of their previous non‐association with thyroid cancer, and their common usage as add‐on therapy to metformin along with GLP‐1RAs and DPP‐4 inhibitors. The first cohort included 21 722 new users of GLP‐1RAs and 326 993 new users of SGLT2 inhibitors, whereas the second cohort included 904 300 DPP‐4 inhibitor new users and 112 017 SGLT2 inhibitor new users. The outcome was the time to incident thyroid cancer. Weighted Cox proportional models were used to estimate hazard ratios of thyroid cancer incidence associated with incretin‐based drugs of interest.

Results

The use of GLP‐1RAs was not associated with an increased risk of thyroid cancer (weighted hazard ratio 0.98, 95% confidence interval 0.62‐1.53) compared with that of SGLT2 inhibitors. Using DPP‐4 inhibitors was also not associated with an increased risk of thyroid cancer (0.95, 0.79‐1.14) compared with that of SGLT2 inhibitors. No significant effect modifications were observed across subgroup analyses. Sensitivity analyses, including alternative outcome definition analysis of medullary thyroid cancer, were consistent with the primary analysis results.

Conclusions

GLP‐1RAs and DPP‐4 inhibitors were not associated with an increased risk of thyroid cancer in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
Increased domestic violence during the COVID‐19 pandemic: India's response
Authors: Bekteshi Venera , Miller Christina , Bellamy Jennifer , Jani Nairruti
Published: September 2023

Motivation

Domestic abuse of women, despite being illegal, is common in India: on average, every 4.4 minutes a woman suffers abuse. During the pandemic, owing to curfew and lockdowns, women had additional caring responsibilities, but they lacked social support. A legal system made lethargic by lockdowns, lack of safety protocols for dealing with cases of domestic violence during the pandemic, extended delays in processing cases, and limited protection for victims—all combined to increase domestic violence nationwide.

Purpose

What was the response of the Indian government to domestic violence during the COVID‐19 pandemic? We evaluate policies and interventions through the lens of intersectional feminism and social equity.

Methods and approach

We review publicly available documents and scholarly journals published between 2018 and 2022. We identify the national anti‐domestic violence and state‐specific programmes offered to women in India. We critically evaluate the country's anti‐domestic violence campaign. The policy analysis draws on the cultural knowledge and professional expertise of the authors.

Findings

The government's efforts to address domestic violence during the pandemic were limited. Pre‐existing vulnerabilities such as economic hardship, the gender‐based digital divide, and strict gender roles were exacerbated by the pandemic. Although the government tried to address domestic violence, through helplines, keeping shelters open and offering virtual court sessions, it also released convicted abusers from prison, increasing women's vulnerability. Government and non‐governmental organization interventions were not scaled up to meet demand. Many programmes had little oversight and quality control, resulting in differential results that often further victimized victims of domestic violence among vulnerable populations.

Policy implications

Our findings highlight the importance of services and policies on domestic violence being explicit and sensitive to the culture and context in disaster preparedness and public health emergency planning.
Remotely sensed tree height and density explain global gliding vertebrate richness
Authors: Wagner Benjamin , Kreft Holger , Nitschke Craig R. , Schrader Julian
Published: September 2023

In vertebrates, gliding evolved as a mode of energy‐efficient locomotion to move between trees. Gliding vertebrate richness is hypothesised to increase with tree height and decrease with tree density but empirical evidence for this is scarce, especially at a global scale. Here, we test the ability of tree height and density to explain species richness of gliding vertebrates globally compared to richness of all vertebrates, while controlling for biogeographical and climatic factors. We compiled a global database of 193 gliding amphibians, mammals and reptiles and created maps of species richness from extent‐of‐occurrence range maps. We paired species richness of gliding vertebrates with spatial estimates of global tree height and density and biogeographical regions (BGRs) as covariates to account for ecological and historical differences among global regions. We used univariate linear and multivariate generalised linear mixed‐effect models to evaluate relationships between species richness and tree height and density, and the interaction between both variables. We found that richness of all gliding vertebrate species increased significantly with tree height, while results for richness of gliding amphibians, mammals and reptiles alone indicated mixed responses especially among different BGRs. Mixed‐effect models mirrored these results for richness of all gliding species combined, while also revealing the mixed response to tree height and denisyt of richness of gliding amphibians, mammals and reptiles. Richness of all vertebrate species – gliding and non‐gliding – also increased with tree height and density, but at a lesser rate than richness of gliding vertebrates, indicating a greater influence of forest structure on richness patterns of gliding vertebrates. Our results support hypotheses stating that gliding in vertebrates evolved globally in tall forests as energy‐efficient locomotion between trees, and provide further evidence for the importance of forest structure to explain the distribution of gliding vertebrates.
Current practice and recommendations for management of hepatitis B virus in people living with HIV in Asia
Authors: Lui Grace Chung‐Yan , Wong Grace Lai‐Hung , Yang Hung‐Chih , Sheng Wang‐Huei , Lee Sun Hee
Published: September 2023

Background

The prevalence of HIV and hepatitis B virus (HBV) co‐infection is higher in Asia than in Europe and North America and varies significantly between different regions within Asia. Important routes of transmission of both these infections include high‐risk unprotected sexual contact, intravenous drug use, and transmission of maternal infection perinatally or in early childhood. While life expectancy among people living with HIV has been extended with effective antiretroviral therapy (ART), HBV‐induced liver injury and complications have emerged as a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in people living with HIV.

Objectives

This article describes the prevalence of co‐infection, current clinical practice, and recommendations for the management of people living with HIV‐HBV co‐infection in Asia.

Results and Conclusions

Screening for HBV should occur at the time of HIV diagnosis; however, HBV screening rates in people living with HIV in Asia vary widely by region. Similarly, people with HBV should be screened for HIV before initiation of HBV antiviral therapy. People with HIV‐HBV co‐infection should be assessed for liver damage and risk factors for liver disease and be monitored regularly for liver complications and HBV DNA. Medical treatment with ART is lifelong and includes tenofovir and lamivudine or emtricitabine, unless intolerant or contraindicated, as these are active against both HIV and HBV. HBV vaccination programmes are effective in reducing co‐infection rates. Mother‐to‐child transmission can be prevented through measures such as vaccination, antenatal screening, and treatment of pregnant women who are infected.
Cold‐cap structure in a slurry‐fed electric melter
Authors: Ferkl Pavel , Hrma Pavel , Kloužek Jaroslav , Kruger Albert A. , Pokorný Richard
Published: September 2023

As glass batch is charged into an electric melter, a cold cap forms on the glass melt surface. Heat transfer to the cold cap from the molten glass below and the melter atmosphere above determines the melting rate. A mathematical model of the cold cap and the experimental kinetic data of the feed‐to‐glass conversion that were collected for several simulated low‐activity and high‐level waste melter feeds allowed us to develop relationships between the internal structure of the cold cap, its properties, its thickness, and the internal heat transfer. This contribution shows the distribution of major crystalline phases and the cumulative evolution of gases within the cold cap. It also examines the temperature, conversion degree, and heating rate the melter feed is experiencing during the passage through the cold cap and their effects on the cold‐cap bottom temperature and morphology, which are important for the computational fluid dynamics simulations of melters.
A 5‐year single‐center study about onychomycosis with a focus on Aspergillus spp. in Albania
Authors: Fida Monika , Prendushi Xhensila F. , Gjylameti Najada , Dedej Sabina , Zenelaj Valbona , Toçi Ervin , Vasili Ermira
Published: September 2023

Background

Onychomycosis is a common nail infection caused by dermatophytes, nondermatophytes molds (NDM), and yeasts. The prevalence of Aspergillus spp. is increasing worldwide. This study aims to describe the epidemiological and microbiological features of onychomycosis, especially for Aspergillus spp.

Methods

This is a 5‐year retrospective study of clinically suspected onychomycosis in one microbiological clinic in Albania. The mycological examination, which included direct microscopic examination of nail scrapings with 20% KOH and culture, was performed on 411 patients. After incubation, we studied the macroscopic characteristics of the colonies, size, shape, and color, and their microscopic examination. We evaluated positive cases for Aspergillus, all cases where Aspergillus was grown in the culture, the microscopy was positive, and the culture was negative for dermatophyte.

Results

Onychomycosis resulted positive in 267 patients (52.9% females vs. 47.1% males). A total of 62.2% resulted infected by dermatophytes, 29.6% by yeasts, and 8.2% by NDM. Onychomycosis resulted more frequent in the age group 15–64 years old (63%). Aspergillus spp. were found in 19 patients from 22 patients with NDM onychomycosis. Males (11 patients) and the age group 15–64 years old (14 patients) were more vulnerable to Aspergillus spp. A. niger, A. flavus, and A. terreus isolated from the nail cultures in our study. The culture resulted more superior to KOH examinations.

Conclusions

Our study indicates that NDM, including Aspergillus spp., are still rare findings from fungal examinations. However, dermatologist's clinical suspicion and microbiologist's skills are mandatory in diagnosing and properly managing patients with Aspergillus spp.
Advanced practice nurse competencies to practice in emergency and critical care settings: A scoping review
Authors: Yamaguchi Yu , Matsunaga‐Myoji Yuriko , Fujita Kimie
Published: September 2023

Aim

Advanced Practice Nurses are expected to provide lifesaving care to patients with complex acute illnesses in emergency and critical care settings. However, little is known about their competencies and barriers to practice in emergency and critical care settings. This review investigated these nurses' competencies to practice.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted in accordance with Arksey and O′Malley's framework. Extensive research searches were conducted using seven electronic databases: MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, Ichushi Web, Mednar and GreyNet International. Definitions and explanations of Advanced Practice Nurse competencies were categorized into elements and grouped according to similarity.

Results

The database searches identified 2,483 studies, and data were extracted for 23 studies. Analysed studies were published between 2000 and 2021 and conducted in eight countries. Seven competencies were identified: performing advanced practice nursing, acute patient care, diagnostic assessment, interdisciplinary collaboration and consultation, leadership and system management, documenting patient care and supporting patient and family decision‐making.

Conclusion

This review identified competencies unique to Advanced Practice Nurses in emergency and critical care settings. Further research is required to facilitate understanding of the crucial roles of advanced care nurses among healthcare providers.
Insights into SARS‐CoV‐2 in Angola during the COVID‐19 peak: Molecular epidemiology and genome surveillance
Authors: Francisco Ngiambudulu M. , van Wyk Stephanie , Moir Monika , San James Emmanuel , Sebastião Cruz S. , Tegally Houriiyah , Xavier Joicymara , Maharaj Akhil , Neto Zoraima , Afonso Pedro , Jandondo Domingos , Paixão Joana , Miranda Julio , David Kumbelembe , Inglês Luzia , Pereira Amilton , Paulo Agostinho , Carralero Raisa Rivas , Freitas Helga Reis , Mufinda Franco , Lutucuta Silvia , Ghafari Mahan , Giovanetti Marta , Giandhari Jennifer , Pillay Sureshnee , Naidoo Yeshnee , Singh Lavanya , Tshiabuila Derek , Martin Darren Patrick , Chabuka Lucious , Choga Wonderful , Wanjohi Dorcas , Mwangi Sarah , Pillay Yusasha , Kebede Yenew , Shumba Edwin , Ondoa Pascale , Baxter Cheryl , Wilkinson Eduan , Tessema Sofonias Kifle , Katzourakis Aris , Lessells Richard , de Oliveira Tulio , Morais Joana
Published: September 2023

Background

In Angola, COVID‐19 cases have been reported in all provinces, resulting in >105,000 cases and >1900 deaths. However, no detailed genomic surveillance into the introduction and spread of the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus has been conducted in Angola. We aimed to investigate the emergence and epidemic progression during the peak of the COVID‐19 pandemic in Angola.

Methods

We generated 1210 whole‐genome SARS‐CoV‐2 sequences, contributing West African data to the global context, that were phylogenetically compared against global strains. Virus movement events were inferred using ancestral state reconstruction.

Results

The epidemic in Angola was marked by four distinct waves of infection, dominated by 12 virus lineages, including VOCs, VOIs, and the VUM C.16, which was unique to South‐Western Africa and circulated for an extended period within the region. Virus exchanges occurred between Angola and its neighboring countries, and strong links with Brazil and Portugal reflected the historical and cultural ties shared between these countries. The first case likely originated from southern Africa.

Conclusion

A lack of a robust genome surveillance network and strong dependence on out‐of‐country sequencing limit real‐time data generation to achieve timely disease outbreak responses, which remains of the utmost importance to mitigate future disease outbreaks in Angola.
Digital social security accounts for platform workers: The case of Estonia’s entrepreneur account
Authors: Vallistu Johanna
Published: September 2023

Advancements in technology enable new opportunities for creating digital social security accounts, but the effectiveness of these to solve the accessibility and eligibility issues facing platform workers has not been assessed fully in the literature. The potential of digital social security accounts lies in their ability to consider the possible different streams of income of atypical workers and to improve the effective access of these workers to social security. Tax and social security offices can now exchange information on the income of platform workers in real time, which offers the promise of formalizing the previously informal casual work relationships of the self‐employed. This article explores the case of the Estonian entrepreneur account as a digital hybrid solution for improving the effective access to social security of platform workers. Digital portable accounts create the conditions for the structural improvement required to respond adequately to meet the changing social security needs of atypical workers. However, this also requires that the policy design be thought through carefully, to avoid digital portable accounts being simply a digital facilitator of outdated solutions.
Professionalism and Artist–Teachers in Adult Community Learning in the UK
Authors: Cairns Abbie
Published: September 2023

The professionalism of artists and further education (FE) teachers is often questioned. This research will evaluate the impact this has on artist–teachers working in FE. Schön defines a professional as an individual who works in a highly specialized occupation. This article examines how this applies to artists and FE teachers, with reference to historical and contemporary cross‐disciplinary research. Published research focuses on professionalism in terms of meeting sets of criteria. However, research participants within this study were more concerned with the activities undertaken by artist–teachers and how these reflected their professionalism. The research findings focus on the perceived professionalism of artist–teachers in adult community learning (ACL), a sub‐section of FE in the United Kingdom that encompasses adult and community learning delivered to adults aged 19+ but local authorities or general FE colleges.
Decreased serum musclin concentration is independently associated with the high prevalence of sarcopenia in Chinese middle‐elderly patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Fu Lei , Zhang Qing , Liu Juan , Yuan Xiaoqing , Ye Xinhua
Published: September 2023

Introduction and aims

Sarcopenia is a complication of diabetes mellitus, which can increase hospitalization and lead to poor outcomes. The present study investigated the relationship between the serum musclin concentration and the sarcopenia morbidity in Chinese middle–elderly patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods

We recruited 220 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, all of whom completed gait speed, handgrip strength tests, and whole‐body dual‐energy x‐ray measurements to calculate the appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMI). The patients were divided into sarcopenia (n = 110) and non‐sarcopenia groups (n = 110). The serum musclin concentration was measured using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

The serum musclin concentration was significantly lower in the sarcopenia group (712.82 pg/mL) than in the non‐sarcopenia group (922.53 pg/mL). The serum musclin concentration positively correlated with the whole‐body skeletal mass (r = 0.230; P = 0.001). Sarcopenia morbidity declined as the quartile of serum musclin concentration increased (P = 0.001), and a negative correlation was observed between the serum musclin concentration and the prevalence of sarcopenia (odds ratio = 0.998, P = 0.001). The correlation remained when quartiles were considered.

Conclusions

The serum musclin concentration is an independent protective factor for sarcopenia in Chinese middle‐elderly patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Hepatocyte nuclear factor 1B deletion, but not intragenic mutation, might be more susceptible to hypomagnesemia
Authors: Wang Yanfei , Xiao Xiaoyu , Lin Qiuqiu , Song Rong , Wang Xiaozhou , Liang Yiji , Chen Jingsong , Luan Xiaojun , Zhou Zhiguang , Xiao Yang , Xue Yaoming , Hu Jingyi
Published: September 2023

Aims

HNF1B syndrome is caused by defects in the hepatocyte nuclear factor 1B (HNF1B) gene, which leads to maturity‐onset diabetes of the young type 5 and congenital organ malformations. This study aimed to identify a gene defect in a patient presenting with diabetes and severe diarrhea, while also analyzing the prevalence of hypomagnesemia and its correlation with the HNF1B genotype.

Materials and Methods

Whole exome sequencing was used to identify responsible point mutations and small indels in the proband and their family members. Multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification was carried out to identify HNF1B deletions. Furthermore, an analysis of published data on 539 cumulative HNF1B cases, from 29 literature sources, was carried out to determine the correlation between the HNF1B genotype and the phenotype of serum magnesium status.

Results

Using multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification, we identified a de novo heterozygous HNF1B deletion in the patient, who showed dorsal pancreas agenesis and multiple kidney cysts, as detected by magnetic resonance imaging. Magnesium supplementation effectively alleviated the symptoms of diarrhea. Hypomagnesemia was highly prevalent in 192 out of 354 (54.2%) patients with HNF1B syndrome. Compared with patients with intragenic mutations, those with HNF1B deletions were more likely to suffer from hypomagnesemia, with an odds ratio of 3.1 (95% confidence interval 1.8–5.4).

Conclusions

Hypomagnesemia is highly prevalent in individuals with HNF1B syndrome, and those with HNF1B deletion are more susceptible to developing hypomagnesemia compared with those with intragenic mutations. The genotype–phenotype associations in HNF1B syndrome have significant implications for endocrinologists in terms of genotype detection, treatment decisions and prognosis assessment.
Nutrition outcomes and treatment toxicities in patients with head and neck cancer receiving helical intensity‐modulated radiotherapy
Authors: Blake Claire , Lai Rainbow , Brown Teresa , Pelecanos Anita , Moroney Laura , Helios Jennifer , Smith David , Hughes Brett G. M. , Kenny Lizbeth , Chua Benjamin , Bauer Judith
Published: September 2023

Background

Helical intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (H‐IMRT) provides excellent limitation of dose to tissues not requiring treatment, although acute toxicity still occurs. The present study aimed to determine how treatment‐related acute toxicities affect nutrition outcomes in patients with head and neck cancer.

Methods

A prospective observational study was conducted in 194 patients undergoing curative intent H‐IMRT with or without other treatment modalities. Weight outcomes (kg) and acute toxicity and dysphagia data were collected during treatment using Common Toxicity Criteria for Adverse Effects (CTCAE), version 4.0.

Results

Significant weight loss (> 10%) was observed in 30% of high nutritional risk patients and 7% of low nutritional risk patients. Nausea, adjusted for baseline dysphagia, in high nutritional risk patients and nausea, dysphagia and pharyngeal mucositis in low nutritional risk patients were significant factors in explaining the percentage loss in baseline weight to treatment completion.

Conclusions

Significant weight loss remains an issue during treatment, despite improvements in radiotherapy technology and high‐level multidisciplinary care.
The choice for colostomy following spinal cord injury: A grounded theory study
Authors: Boucher Michelle Louise , Gelling Leslie , Tait Desiree
Published: September 2023

Aim

Explore experiences and choices related to bowel management following spinal cord injury.

Background

In one UK spinal centre, more are choosing a colostomy soon after injury in contravention of professional guidelines. Reasons for this were unknown.

Methods

Grounded theory study using semi‐structured interviews with 12 individuals living with spinal cord injury.

Results

All ‘Experienced Loss’ related to bowel function. Those who chose colostomy later ‘Progressed into Suffering’. Colostomy transformed lives and was likened to ‘Being Alive Again’. ‘Failures of Care’ contributed to experiences and decision‐making.

Conclusion

Possessing information and choice emerge as key in transforming lives following spinal cord injury. They allow individuals to make choices from a lifeworld perspective, which may differ from those professionals assume. Present neurogenic bowel management guidelines fail to account for the wider lifeworlds of those they are designed for.

Implications for the Profession and Patient Care

An imperative emerges to make information and choice available and involve patients in the reconstruction of guidelines.

Impact

Unique knowledge emerges about patient experiences and motivations, and points to a patient‐led revolution in how bowel management following spinal cord injury is understood and managed. The imperative for adequate access to information and choice is demonstrated.

Reporting Method

EQUATOR Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research (SRQR) were adhered to.

Patient or Public Contribution

The methodology facilitated discussion of areas important to patients and made them co‐constructors of theory.
The Management of Socio‐Political Issues and Environments: Toward a Research Agenda for Corporate Socio‐Political Engagement
Authors: Sun Pei , Doh Jonathan , Rajwani Tazeeb , Werner Timothy , Luo Xiaowei Rose
Published: September 2023

Socio‐political issues and environments are becoming more complex and challenging. In this introduction to the special issue on ‘The Management of Socio‐Political Issues and Environments: Organizational and Strategic Perspectives’, we take stock of the burgeoning research on how firms interact with socio‐political actors and environments over the last few decades, specifically research on Corporate Political Activity and Corporate Social Responsibility. We then argue that the socio‐political environments and actors with which firms interact are in a state of flux, such that issues are more interrelated and dynamic, and actors are more diverse and demanding. As such, we propose a new concept of corporate socio‐political engagement (CSPE), which represents a more holistic perspective to understanding complex interactions among firms and their social/political stakeholders, incorporating and transcending conventional notions and tactics documented in the extant nonmarket strategy literature. Using a two‐dimensional framework that captures the identity of socio‐political actor or the nature of socio‐political issues (political, social, or both) as well as the relevant level of analysis at which the interactions unfold, we showcase the contributions of the special issue articles to this research agenda. Finally, we discuss and specify future research directions for revealing the multifaceted nature of CSPE.
Daily agreeableness and acculturation processes in ethnic/racial minority freshmen: The role of inter‐ethnic contact and perceived discrimination
Authors: Wu Yiqun , Xu Jingyi , Shen Yishan , Wang Yijie , Zheng Yao
Published: September 2023

Objectives

Having higher levels of mainstream cultural orientation (MCO), an important component of acculturation attitudes and behaviors, is beneficial for ethnic/racial minority students during the transitions into university. Scant research has investigated MCO at a micro daily timescale. This study examined how personality (agreeableness) functions in conjunction with interpersonal processes (inter‐ethnic contact and perceived discrimination) to influence MCO as daily within‐person processes.

Methods

Multi‐level structural equation modeling were used to analyze month‐long daily diary data from 209 ethnic/racial minority freshmen (69% female).

Results

There was a positive indirect association between agreeableness and MCO through inter‐ethnic contact at both within‐ and between‐person levels. At the within‐person level, on days with lower (vs. higher) levels of ethnic/racial discrimination, higher levels of agreeableness were associated with higher levels of MCO.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the contributions of intensive longitudinal data in elucidating ethnic/racial minority students' personality and acculturation processes in daily life involving protective and risk factors on micro timescales.
Spatial patterns and drivers of native plant diversity in Hainan, China
Authors: Wang Guo‐Qing , Scherson Rosa A. , Vera Diego , Bai Yun‐Hao , Wen Jun , Guo Lin‐Yuan , Hughes Alice C. , Wang Hua‐Feng
Published: September 2023

Hainan Island has the most extensive and well‐preserved tropical forests in China. With rapid economic development of Hainan, biodiversity is increasingly at risk. Determining the spatial patterns of plant diversity in Hainan and explaining the drivers behind plant diversity are important considerations in assessing and maximizing the effectiveness of national parks, such as the newly designated Hainan Rainforest National Park. We assessed phylogenetic diversity patterns, and species richness using 106,252 georeferenced specimen records and a molecular phylogeny of 3,792 native plant species. Based on phylogenetic range‐weighted turnover metrics, we divided Hainan flora into four major floristic units. The Grade of Membership model was used to further verify the four units, and to understand their boundaries and the internal structure of each floristic unit. Finally, the best combination model was used to explore the driving mechanisms underlying the division. Our results reveal that central Hainan is the most important hotspot for plant endemism and diversity, followed by the southern area. Environmental energy is the main factor determining the spatial patterns of native plant diversity on the island, and accessibility has the greatest impact on native plant diversity among social factors. We explore patterns of spatial phylogenetics and biogeography to identify potential priorities for management and conservation drivers of plant diversity patterns across Hainan, to provide the basis for the effective protection of native plant diversity and the improvement of national parks of Hainan Island.
Presumptive phenobarbital‐induced systemic lupus erythematosus in a domestic dog
Authors: Phillips Erin , Kornya Matthew , Collier Allison , Barry Maureen , Morrison Katherine , Reggeti Felipe
Published: September 2023

Case Description

We describe a case of presumptive acquired systemic lupus erythematosus secondary to phenobarbital administration in a dog, which resolved with withdrawal of the drug.

Clinical Findings

A 3.5 year‐old poodle presented to a veterinary teaching hospital for Tier 1 idiopathic epilepsy and was treated with phenobarbital. The dog experienced fever, multiple cytopenias, and proteinuria in conjunction with a positive antinuclear antibody (ANA) titer.

Diagnostics

Serial CBCs, urine protein : creatinine ratios, and sternal bone marrow aspirates were performed to evaluate improvement.

Treatment and Outcome

Phenobarbital was withdrawn and levetiracetam initiated. All abnormalities resolved with supportive care, without initiation of immunosuppressive drugs. All cytopenias and proteinuria resolved and ANA test results became negative within 3 months. The patient recovered and did well clinically.

Clinical Relevance

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a disease of multiple autoimmune syndromes occurring concurrently or sequentially in conjunction with the presence of circulating ANA. It has been well described in dogs as an idiopathic condition, but in human medicine may occur secondary to drug reactions (drug‐associated lupus) including as a reaction to phenobarbital. The findings in our case are consistent with the criteria for drug‐induced lupus in humans and we suggest it as the first report of phenobarbital‐induced lupus in a dog.
Discursive mismatch and globalization by stealth: The fight against corruption in the Brazilian legal field
Authors: Cornelius Eduardo
Published: September 2023

Law and globalization studies have documented how Global South lawyers compete over the adaptation of international norms. Yet, little is known about how this adaptation legitimates worldviews beyond the law. To advance this literature, this paper proposes a discourse-centered field analysis of the legal globalization of anti-corruption ideas in Brazil. It examines Brazilian lawyers' disputes over a 2016 anti-corruption bill. The bill supporters mobilize global anti-corruption discourses that are exogenous to the legal field to defend harsher criminal law. Their critics counter the reform by mobilizing endogenous legal ideas against criminal law expansion. In so doing, they do not challenge reformers' ideas about corruption. I show how this discursive mismatch leads to a form of globalization by stealth, whereby local dynamics allow global ideas to remain unchallenged in local fields.
Laurie in Paris. Diffusion, discussion and influences of Lauren Edelman's work in France
Authors: Pélisse Jérôme
Published: September 2023

As someone who was privileged to call Laurie B. Edelman a mentor and also a friend, I write this short essay to highlight the international diffusion of her research and in particular, the important legacy she has left to French scholarship on law and society. Laurie certainly preferred Italy, Bellagio, and Lake Como notably, but she did not hate Paris either, and she traveled here several times for academic events. Beyond this, however, her work has been very influential for many young French researchers in recent years. As an actor facilitating the diffusion and discussion of Laurie's work in France, I want to pay tribute to her by describing how the legal endogeneity theory that she gradually forged based mostly on her work in employment discrimination law has been understood by French sociologists, institutionalist economists and political scientists over the last 20 years. In the remainder of this essay, I first point to some milestones in the attention to and diffusion of her work in France. These include theses, invitations to colloquia, and the publication of books and special issues of journals. Second, I evoke various publications and how they have been further mobilized in French law and society scholarship. Third, I point to two main avenues of thought that have been opened up so far.
How to train a student
Authors: Rowan Jamie
Published: September 2023

There are multiple ways that I can describe the impact of Laurie Edelman on my life. I think the first one, and the one that most of you are familiar with, would be intellectual. The second, her mentorship, was far less public. In both ways—as an advisor and as a mentor—Laurie was extraordinary.

I came to the Jurisprudence and Social Policy Program (JSP) at Berkeley Law with very little understanding of socio-legal studies, or academia as a profession. Having volunteered with refugees in the US and in countries still struggling from the ravages of conflict, I was simply dedicated to understanding how to help people rebuild their lives after war. I used to say I was a do-gooder wanting to learn how to do good better.