bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chartered professional accountant's competencies: the synergy between accounting education and employers' needs—evidence from Alberta
Authors: Elbarrad Sherif , Belassi Walid
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This study examines the competencies delineated by the Chartered Professional Accountants (CPA) in Canada and explores the gap between what universities provide, represented by the students' confidence in the knowledge acquired—and what the accounting profession in Canada requires and deems necessary.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the 44 sub-competencies listed under the main seven competencies set by CPA, a pair of questionnaires were drafted. The first questionnaire asked post-secondary accounting students to rate their perceived confidence in these 44 sub-competencies and received 105 responses. The second questionnaire asked accounting professionals to rate the frequency and degree of use of each sub-competency in their workplace and received 72 responses. The responses to the two questionnaires were used to compare perceived student competencies with industry expectations.

Findings

The study suggests an industry-neutral framework that employers and post-secondary institutions (PSIs) can use to determine where knowledge gaps exist between students' qualifications and professionals' requirements. The paper concludes that while there are synergies in many competencies in the accounting field in Canada, there are also areas of discord.

Research limitations/implications

The study relies on one accredited PSI. Relying on one case study limits the ability to generalize the findings. Nevertheless, the in-depth nature of the study allows it to shed light on many key issues related to accounting education and the profession in Alberta, Canada.

Originality/value

This paper adds to the existing literature by exploring the gap between what students learn and what the profession needs in the accounting field in Canada. Studying Canada adds to the accounting knowledge and draws attention to gaps that could exist in other countries. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first paper to focus on Canada from this perspective. The paper also proposes a curriculum development model that is based on market needs and applicable to all fields of knowledge.
The economic influence of climate change on Bangladesh agriculture: application of a dynamic computable general equilibrium model
Authors: Hossain Syed Shoyeb , Cui Yongwei , Delin Huang , Zhang Xinyuan
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Evaluating the economic effects of climate change is a pivotal step for planning adaptation in developing countries. For Bangladesh, global warming has put it among the most vulnerable countries in the world to climate change, with increasing temperatures and sea-level rise. Hence, the purpose of this paper is to examine how climate change impacts the economy in Bangladesh in the case of climate scenarios.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a dynamic computable general equilibrium (CGE) model and three climate change scenarios, this paper assesses the economy-wide implications of climate change on Bangladesh’s economy and agriculture. It is clear from the examination of the CGE model that the impacts of climate change on agricultural sectors were felt more sharply, reducing output by −3.25% and −3.70%, respectively, and increasing imports by 1.22% and 1.53% in 2030 and 2050, compared to the baseline.

Findings

The findings reveal that, relative to baseline, agricultural output will decline by a range of −3.1% to −3.6% under the high climate scenario (higher temperatures and lower yields). A decrease in agricultural output results in declines in agricultural labor and household income. Household income falls in all categories, although it drops the most in urban less educated households with a range of −3.1% to −3.4%. On the other hand, consumption of commodities will fall by −0.11% to −0.13%, according to the findings. Although climate change impacts had a relatively small effect on gross domestic product, reducing it by −0.059% and −0.098% in 2030 and 2050, respectively.

Practical implications

As agricultural output, household consumption and income decline, it will impact the majority of the population’s health in Bangladesh by increasing malnutrition, hidden hunger, poverty, changing food environment, changing physical and mental health status and a changing health-care environment. Therefore, population health and food security will be a top socioeconomic and political concern for Bangladesh Government.

Originality/value

The examination of the dynamic CGE model is its originality. In conclusion, the evidence generated here can provide important information to policymakers and guide government policies that contribute to national development and the achievement of food security targets. It is also necessary to put more emphasis on climate change issues and address potential risks in the following years.
Effects of green human resource management on organisational sustainability: the mediating role of corporate social responsibility and organisational citizenship behaviour
Authors: Ziyadeh Mahdi Waleed , Othman Mohammed , Zaid Ahmed Adnan
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The paper aims to examine the association of green human resource management (GHRM) with organisational sustainability (OS) through the mediating function of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and organisational citizenship behaviour for the environment (OCBE) in Palestinian health-care organisations.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper applied a quantitative method in which data are collected from a survey with 88 human resources and quality managers who work in Palestinian health-care organisations. Furthermore, the structural equation modelling method of partial least squares was used for the data analysis.

Findings

The results demonstrated that GHRM practices positively influenced CSR and OCBE, which eventually influenced OS. Notably, this study offers empirical insights into how to improve OS through CSR, OCBE and GHRM approaches.

Originality/value

This paper presents the implications for achieving the health care sector’s long-term sustainability by linking strategic environmental goals of human resources management practices with practices of social responsibility and organisational citizenship behaviour, which ensures employee participation in formulating policies and strategies for the organization.
The influence of government affiliations on firm product innovation in a dynamic institutional environment: insights from China
Authors: Yang Chun , Bossink Bart , Peverelli Peter
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Building on resource dependence theory and the dynamic institution-based view, this paper examines the influence of government affiliations on firm product innovation in a dynamic institutional environment.

Design/methodology/approach

Using unique panel data of Chinese manufacturing firms covering a period of 12 years (1998–2009) with 2,564,547 firm-year observations, this study chooses the panel Tobit model with random effects to explore the influence of government affiliations on firm product innovation, followed by an analysis to test the moderation effects of dynamic institutional environments.

Findings

The study findings suggest that Chinese firms with higher-level government affiliations have a relatively high product innovation performance. It finds that this innovation stimulating effect is contingent on the dynamic nature of the institutional environment. To be specific, a high speed of institutional transition may depress the positive innovation effects of government affiliations, while a more synchronized transition speed of institutional components may enhance the positive innovation effects of firms' government affiliations.

Originality/value

This study adds to a better understanding of the drivers of product innovation in Chinese firms that are situated in environments that are characterized by institutional change, using and contributing to resource dependence theory and the dynamic institution-based view.
An empirical examination of newcomer contribution costs in established OSS communities: a knowledge-based perspective
Authors: AlMarzouq Mohammad , Grover Varun , Thatcher Jason , Klein Rich
Published: April 2023

Purpose

To remain sustainable, open source software (OSS) projects must attract new members—or newcomers—who make contributions. In this paper, the authors develop a set of hypotheses based on the knowledge barriers framework that examines how OSS communities can encourage contributions from newcomers.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing longitudinal data from the source code repositories of 232 OSS projects over a two-year period, the authors employ a Poisson-based mixed model to test how community characteristics, such as the main drivers of knowledge-based costs, relate to newcomers' contributions.

Findings

The results indicate that community characteristics, such as programming language choice, documentation effort and code structure instability, are the main drivers of knowledge-based contribution costs. The findings also suggest that managing these costs can result in more inclusive OSS communities, as evidenced by the number of contributing newcomers; the authors highlight the importance of maintaining documentation efforts for OSS communities.

Originality/value

This paper assumes that motivational factors are a necessary but insufficient condition for newcomer participation in OSS projects and that the cost to participation should be considered. Using the knowledge barriers framework, this paper identifies the main knowledge-based costs that hinder newcomer participation. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first empirical study that does not limit data collection to a single hosting platform (e.g., SourceForge), which improves the generalizability of the findings.
Display advertising: the role of context and advertising appeals from a resistance perspective
Authors: Tsiotsou Rodoula H. , Hatzithomas Leonidas , Wetzels Martin
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This research aims to investigate the role of consumer resistance (CR), display advertising context, appeal and type of exposure for the successful launch of a brand into a new market.

Design/methodology/approach

To accomplish this goal, two experiments manipulated the digital context of advertising (congruent vs. incongruent), the advertising appeal (emotional vs. informative) and the type of exposure (incidental vs. forced) using an energy drink brand. In Study 1, data were collected from 80 participants using eye-tracking and an online questionnaire. In Study 2, a total of 138 participants visited a website with the targeted display ad and responded to an online questionnaire.

Findings

Overall, the results of two studies show that the relationship between CR and display advertising effectiveness is moderated by the advertising context and advertising appeal in incidental exposure, whereas only the advertising context moderates this relationship in forced exposure when launching a brand into a new market. Moreover, the study illustrates the importance of collecting subjective and objective data in advancing the knowledge and understanding of interactive marketing communications such as display advertising.

Originality/value

The study is a novel attempt within the well-established realm of interactive marketing and, specifically, of digital advertising to examine the persuasive effects of display ad features such as the context, appeal and exposure on display ad effectiveness, considering consumers' predispositions such as resistance to change.
Sustainability in hospitality education: research trends and future directions
Authors: Piramanayagam Senthilkumaran , Mallya Jyothi , Payini Valsaraj
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) is a method intended to create awareness, knowledge, competence and attitude amongst stakeholders towards Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through higher education curricula. This bibliometric analysis, coupled with a systematic review, presents a comprehensive and objective assessment of the evolution of Sustainability in Hospitality Education (SHE) literature.

Design/methodology/approach

This study integrated two review techniques: a systematic review and bibliometric analysis of peer-reviewed scientific articles published in journals indexed in Scopus. This study discloses the research landscape and thematic evaluation of the structure of existing literature on SHE.

Findings

The results show that SHE is an emerging field comprised of five main themes. The themes that emerged were SHE and perspectives, sustainability and curriculum, implications of sustainability education (SE), sustainability and learning and sustainability, students' perception and literacy.The authors' study findings also revealed that SHE is imbalanced and scarce in developing countries.

Practical implications

This systematic review, integrated with a bibliometric analysis, indicates that SHE is an emerging field. The findings offer a broadened perspective on scholarly research on the concept, current trends and future research direction.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, this study is the first study that attempts to uncover various research themes of SHE literature. The authors' work also acts as an entry point for critical conceptual ideas and empirical discoveries of SHE research. The study findings are helpful for future researchers in the SHE domain.
The Impact of Open Data on Public Procurement
Authors: DUGUAY RAPHAEL , RAUTER THOMAS , SAMUELS DELPHINE
Published: April 2023

We examine how open procurement data affect the competitiveness of award procedures and the execution of government contracts. The European Union recently made its historical procurement notices available for bulk download in a cohesive and user‐friendly database. Comparing government contracts above and below EU procurement size thresholds, we find that, after the open data initiative, procurement officials are more likely to award treated contracts through open bidding. In cross‐sectional analyses, we document variation in the open bidding effect consistent with two underlying mechanisms: (1) increased scrutiny by NGOs and investigative journalists and (2) learning by national procurement regulators. However, treated contracts are also more likely to experience costly modifications because the shift to open bidding introduces rigidity that limits officials’ discretion in selecting suppliers based on private information. Overall, our evidence indicates that open procurement data promote competitive bidding but lead to contracts with weaker execution performance. These inferences also hold in an alternative open data setting.
Feasibility of a rapid diagnosis discussion tool for reducing misdiagnosis of patients presenting to emergency departments with abdominal pain
Authors: Faulkner Nicholas , Buntine Paul , Wright Breanna , Leach Deborah , Bragge Peter
Published: April 2023

Objectives

Providing accurate and timely diagnoses is challenging in ED settings. We evaluated the feasibility and effectiveness of a short, structured rapid diagnosis discussion (RaDD) between a patient's initial doctor and a second doctor for patients presenting to ED with abdominal pain.

Methods

Controlled pre‐post, mixed‐methods pilot study in a metropolitan hospital network in Melbourne, Australia. Comparisons were made between an ED using RaDD for a 1‐month period (n = 155) and two control EDs within the same hospital network (n = 2227) using standard practices. A short survey of 27 clinicians was also undertaken.

Results

Provisional diagnoses changed in 24.7% (95% confidence interval 19.0, 30.4) of all cases for which a RaDD case report sheet was completed, and clinicians' confidence in their decision‐making was significantly higher when using RaDD (r = 0.27). RaDD significantly increased the likelihood that patients would be sent to the short stay unit and have a blood test ordered, and significantly reduced the likelihood that patients would be discharged home from the ED or leave at their own risk. Usage of the RaDD tool was low (25.2% of eligible cases), and qualitative feedback indicated that time limitations inhibited uptake.

Conclusions

RaDD encouraged clinicians to take a more cautious, risk‐averse approach to care and improved confidence in their diagnostic decisions. However, cost effectiveness of these outcomes and possible implementation barriers need to be further considered in subsequent studies.
Safety and efficacy ofProtekDuoright ventricular assist device: A systemic review
Authors: Alam Amit , Baran David A. , Doshi Harsh , Van Zyl Johanna , Patlolla Srikant , Salem Mahmoud , Afzal Aasim , Al‐Saffar Farah , Hall Shelley A.
Published: April 2023

Background

Right ventricular failure is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The ProtekDuo (Livanova, Uk) is a dual‐lumen cannula that allows for percutaneous right ventricular support and may be connected to a centrifugal blood pump such as the TandemHeart or LifeSparc (Livanova, UK). This systematic review aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of ProtekDuo right ventricular support and evaluate potential clinical variables that can influence outcomes.

Methods

PubMed, MEDLINE, SCOPUS, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library were systematically searched. Studies meeting inclusion criteria, where ProtekDuo was used as the right ventricular assist device with reported numerical death counts for mortality as outcome measures. The primary endpoints were in‐hospital 30‐day and 1‐year mortality rates. Secondary endpoints included ICU length of stay, conversion rates to surgical RVADs, ProtekDuo wean rates, duration of use of ProtekDuo, and adverse event rates.

Results

Of 49 studies reviewed, 7 met inclusion criteria with study periods between October 2014 and November 2019. ProtekDuo was utilized due to RV failure post‐LVAD insertion in 64.8% (68/105) of patients. In‐hospital mortality, 30‐day mortality, and 1‐year mortality ranged between 9%–46%, 15%–40%, and 19%–40%, respectively. Weaning from ProtekDuo and conversion to surgical RVAD ranged between 24%–91% and 11%–35%, respectively. The ICU stay average ranged from 15.8 to 36 days and ProtekDuo mean support duration ranged from 10.5 to 58 days.

Conclusion

The ProtekDuo cannula is increasingly utilized as a right ventricular support device. Despite the sparse retrospective data available with variable patient characteristics and study design, percutaneous RV mechanical support via ProtekDuo cannula is a safe and feasible option.
What works to promote community engagement: Strategic plan for volunteering and participation in Andalusia (Spain)
Authors: Maya Jariego Isidro , Holgado Ramos Daniel , Santolaya Francisco J.
Published: April 2023

This article describes the design of the “First Comprehensive Strategic Plan for Volunteering and Citizen Participation in Andalusia,” which establishes the priorities and strategies for promoting citizen engagement in the Autonomous Community of southern Spain. The drawing up of the strategic plan was developed in two phases. First, a theoretical analysis of the effective practices for promoting citizen participation was conducted. Second, the opinion of a total of 35 representatives of Third Sector organizations was obtained. The review of evidence‐based practices made it possible to identify 13 basic strategies for community awareness, education for participation, volunteer management, and the development of inter‐organizational networks. Next, 19 interviews were conducted with representatives of the most prominent social entities in the region and two participatory workshops with 16 leaders of the volunteer movement in Andalusia were held. The results showed the existence of a consolidated social fabric, with a “community of practice” constituted over two decades in which awareness‐raising and training strategies have been effectively combined to promote volunteering. Representatives of the Third Sector consider educational strategies for participation as a priority, such as service‐learning, early participation experiences during adolescence and the training of volunteers and members of associations. On the other hand, although social organizations are aware of the need to adapt to new forms of participation (more individualized, one‐off, or episodic), they generally defend strategies that contribute to a higher level of organizational commitment. The resulting plan integrates measures to promote participation and volunteering through cross‐cutting actions.
Estimating Optimal Individualized Treatment Rules with Multistate Processes
Authors: Bakoyannis Giorgos
Published: April 2023

Multistate process data are common in studies of chronic diseases such as cancer. These data are ideal for precision medicine purposes as they can be leveraged to improve more refined health outcomes, compared to standard survival outcomes, as well as incorporate patient preferences regarding quantity versus quality of life. However, there are currently no methods for the estimation of optimal individualized treatment rules with such data. In this paper, we propose a nonparametric outcome weighted learning approach for this problem in randomized clinical trial settings. The theoretical properties of the proposed methods, including Fisher consistency and asymptotic normality of the estimated expected outcome under the estimated optimal individualized treatment rule, are rigorously established. A consistent closed-form variance estimator is provided and methodology for the calculation of simultaneous confidence intervals is proposed. Simulation studies show that the proposed methodology and inference procedures work well even with small-sample sizes and high rates of right censoring. The methodology is illustrated using data from a randomized clinical trial on the treatment of metastatic squamous-cell carcinoma of the head and neck.
Exploration of a new class of monoamine oxidase B inhibitors by assembling benzyloxy pharmacophore on halogenated chalcones
Authors: Singh Ashutosh Kumar , Kim Seong‐Min , Oh Jong Min , Abdelgawad Mohamed A. , Ghoneim Mohammed M. , Rangarajan T. M. , Kumar Sunil , Sudevan Sachithra Thazhathuveedu , Trisciuzzi Daniela , Nicolotti Orazio , Kim Hoon , Mathew Bijo
Published: April 2023

Eight derivatives of benzyloxy‐derived halogenated chalcones (BB1‐BB8) were synthesized and tested for their ability to inhibit monoamine oxidases (MAOs). MAO‐A was less efficiently inhibited by all compounds than MAO‐B. Additionally, the majority of the compounds displayed significant MAO‐B inhibitory activities at 1 μM with residual activities of less than 50%. With an IC50 value of 0.062 μM, compound BB4 was the most effective in inhibiting MAO‐B, followed by compound BB2 (IC50 = 0.093 μM). The lead molecules showed good activity than the reference MAO‐B inhibitors (Lazabemide IC50 = 0.11 μM and Pargyline Pargyline IC50 = 0.14). The high selectivity index (SI) values for MAO‐B were observed in compounds BB2 and BB4 (430.108 and 645.161, respectively). Kinetics and reversibility experiments revealed that BB2 and BB4 were reversible competitive MAO‐B inhibitors with Ki values of 0.030 ± 0.014 and 0.011 ± 0.005 μM, respectively. Swiss target prediction confirmed the high probability in the targets of MAO‐B for both compounds. Hypothetical binding mode revealed that the BB2 or BB4 is similarly oriented to the binding cavity of MAO‐B. Based on the modelling results, BB4 showed a stable confirmation during the dynamic simulation. From these results, it was concluded that BB2 and BB4 were potent selective reversible MAO‐B inhibitors and they can be considered drug candidates for treating related neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease.
1053. Furcraea macdougallii Matuda: Asparagaceae
Authors: Rees Paul , King Christabel
Published: April 2023

Furcraea macdougallii Matuda, Falso Maguey Grande, is illustrated (Plate 1053). Its history in cultivation and distribution in Mexico are discussed. Its conservation status: probably extinct in the wild.
Khalifa versus Prometheus: Green ethics and the struggle for contemporary sustainable urbanism
Authors: Rizzo Agatino , Petruccioli Attilio
Published: April 2023

In the last decades, contemporary urbanism in the global South has meant large urban transformations, tall architecture landmarks, and fierce city competition. However, cities and their planners are now confronting an ethical dilemma: how to grow and compete while caring for the disastrous impacts on Earth and human health caused by the mass extraction, processing, and consumption of resources linked to urbanization. In our article, we problematize the modern interpretation of technology, and in particular architecture and planning technologies, in society where sustainability is considered a product. By restudying the Quranic notion of the khalifa and the accidental, ecological formation of the oasis, we will argue for a postpromethean philosophy of inhabiting the Earth. We will exemplify this new ethical–technological shift by comparing planned and unplanned developments in Arabian Gulf cities.
Regional species gains outpace losses across North American continental shelf regions
Authors: Kitchel Zoë J. , Pinsky Malin L.
Published: April 2023

Aim

Although species richness globally is likely to be declining, patterns in diversity at the regional scale depend on species gains within new habitats and species losses from previously inhabited areas. Our understanding of the processes associated with gains or losses remains poor, including whether these events exhibit immediate or delayed responses to environmental change.

Location

The study focuses on nine temperate marine ecosystems in North America.

Time period

The study period varies by region, but overall encompasses observations from 1970 to 2014.

Major taxa studied

We identified regional gains and losses for 577 marine fish and invertebrate species.

Methods

From a total of 166,213 sampling events from bottom trawls across North America that informed 17,997 independent observations of species gains and losses, we built generalized linear mixed effects models to test whether lagged temperature can explain instances of gains and losses of marine fishes and invertebrates in North American continental shelf habitats.

Results

We found that gains were less likely in years with high seasonality, consistent with seasonal extremes as a strong constraint on species occurrence. Losses were also negatively associated with high seasonality, but the response was delayed by 3 years.

Main conclusions

Environmental conditions play a role in species occupancy across diverse temperate marine ecosystems. Immediate gains paired with delayed losses can drive transient increases in species richness during times of environmental change. Identifying the dynamics behind regional species gains and losses is an important step towards prediction of biodiversity changes across ecosystems.
DNA content abnormality frequently develops in the right/proximal colon in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis and inflammatory bowel disease and is highly predictive of subsequent detection of dysplasia
Authors: Zhang Ruth , Rabinovitch Peter S. , Mattis Aras N. , Lauwers Gregory Y. , Choi Won‐Tak
Published: April 2023

Aims

Patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD, termed PSC‐IBD) have a higher risk of harbouring nonconventional and/or invisible dysplasias, especially in the right/proximal colon, than those with IBD alone. We postulated that DNA content abnormality may be frequently detected in the right/proximal colon in PSC‐IBD patients, even in the absence of dysplasia, and that this may predispose to progression to nonconventional and/or invisible dysplasias that are often associated with increased rates of aneuploidy and advanced neoplasia.

Methods and results

DNA flow cytometry was performed on 96 morphologically benign colon biopsies taken throughout the colon from 25 PSC‐IBD patients during the surveillance colonoscopy that preceded the next procedure that detected dysplasia. Thirty (31%) of the 96 benign colon biopsies in this dysplasia group demonstrated abnormal DNA content, with a propensity for the right/proximal colon (70%) (P < 0.001). In contrast, only one (1%) of 87 benign colon biopsies from 20 IBD patients without neoplasia (control group) demonstrated DNA content abnormality, and it was from the left colon. For analysis per patient, 48% (12 of 25) of the patients in the dysplasia group had abnormal DNA content compared with 5% (1 of 20) of the control group (P = 0.002). Of the 12 PSC‐IBD patients with DNA content abnormality, invisible dysplasia was detected in 10 (83%) patients on follow‐up, nine (75%) of whom had nonconventional dysplasia.

Conclusion

PSC‐IBD patients have an increased risk of developing abnormal DNA content in the right/proximal colon, predating the detection of dysplasia.
The effect of pomegranate peel extracts coated with Spirulina microalgae supplementation on physicochemical, microbiological and sensorial properties of yoghurts during storage
Authors: Yağmur Nuray , Şahin Saliha , Akyıldız Gönül
Published: April 2023

Pomegranate peel is a by‐product rich in phytochemicals with proven therapeutic effects. On the other side, Spirulina microalgae contains high protein, vitamins, minerals and various carotenoids in its structure. This is a study in which extracts of hydroalcoholic/aqueous pomegranate peel and Spirulina are combined in yoghurt medium. Six different yoghurts were produced in which microencapsules containing these two products of natural origin, extracts and microalgae itself were added. During storage at +4°C for 21 days, its physicochemical, microbiological and sensory properties were regularly monitored. Microalgae content and controlled release of phenolic compounds have been an excellent nutrient medium for yoghurt bacteria. According to the control yoghurt (YC), the number of viable bacteria was higher in all yoghurts. Microalgae increased the nutritional value of yoghurts, especially protein. While the protein level was 4.82% in control yoghurt, it increased to 5.48% in YM‐coded yoghurt. YPH and YC‐coded yoghurts have the highest general acceptability with 4.21 points, while YM‐coded yoghurt is in the last place with 2.79 points. It is thought that these green‐coloured and aromatic‐smelling yoghurts will attract attention when presented to the consumer's taste.
The impact of apple destructuring and thermal treatment on bioactive compounds: the fate of dietary fibre and polyphenols in puree and homogenate
Authors: Alongi Marilisa , Manzocco Lara , Comuzzi Clara , Gorassini Andrea , Verardo Giancarlo , Rossi Anna , Anese Monica , Nicoli Maria Cristina
Published: April 2023

The present study aimed at understanding the response of dietary fibres and phenolic compounds to apple matrix disintegration and thermal treatment. Apple was processed by mimicking industrial operations of blanching, destructuring by high‐speed homogenisation (HSH) or high‐pressure homogenisation (HPH), and pasteurisation. A viscous puree (0.73 Pa × s), made of juice embedding intact cells and large cell clusters, was obtained by HSH. Conversely, HPH completely disrupted apple tissue leading to a fluid homogenate (0.27 Pa × s) in which the fibrous matrix was suspended. Despite these differences, apple puree and homogenate presented similar content of total and soluble dietary fibre, with no significant differences in the chemical structure of apple pectin, as demonstrated by FT‐IR and NMR analyses. Apple puree and homogenate retained more than 80% of the phenolic content originally present in apple pulp (about 2125 mg/gdw) without detriment to radical scavenging activity. This minor phenolic depletion, regardless of the different extent of mechanical disintegration, was mainly due to the decrease of thermolabile flavanols upon application of analogous heat treatments.
Healthy lifestyles are associated with a better response to periodontal therapy: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Marruganti Crystal , Romandini Mario , Gaeta Carlo , Cagidiaco Edoardo Ferrari , Discepoli Nicola , Parrini Stefano , Graziani Filippo , Grandini Simone
Published: April 2023

Aim

To evaluate the association between lifestyle behaviours and clinical periodontal outcomes following Steps 1/2 of periodontal therapy.

Methods

A total of 120 subjects with untreated Stage II/III periodontitis participated in this study. At baseline, questionnaires were administered to assess the following lifestyle behaviours: adherence to Mediterranean diet (MD), physical activity (PA) and stress levels, sleep quality, smoking and alcohol use. Participants received Steps 1/2 of periodontal therapy and were re‐evaluated after 3 months. A composite outcome of the endpoint of therapy (i.e., no sites with probing pocket depth [PPD] ≥4 mm with bleeding on probing, and no sites with PPD ≥ 6 mm) was regarded as the primary outcome. Simple and multiple regression analyses were used to evaluate the association between lifestyle behaviours and clinical periodontal outcomes. Disease severity at baseline, body mass index, diabetes, household disposable income and plaque control were considered as confounders.

Results

Multiple regression analyses showed significantly lower odds of achieving the endpoint of therapy in subjects with poor sleep quality (odds ratio [OR] = 0.13; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.03–0.47; p < .01), smoking (OR = 0.18; 95% CI: 0.06–0.52; p < .05) and alcohol use above the suggested intake (OR = 0.21; 95% CI: 0.07–0.63; p < .01). Subjects with a combination of ‘unhealthy lifestyles’ (low adherence to MD and low PA levels and high levels of stress and poor sleep quality) showed higher proportions of residual PPD≥6 mm (MD = 1.51; 95% CI: 0.23–2.80; p < .05) and lower odds of achieving the endpoint of therapy (OR = 0.85; 95% CI: 0.33–0.99; p < .05) at re‐evaluation.

Conclusions

Subjects with unhealthy lifestyle behaviours showed worse clinical outcomes 3 months after Steps 1/2 of periodontal therapy.
Lysophosphatidylcholine facilitates the pathogenesis of psoriasis through activating keratinocytes and T cells differentiation via glycolysis
Authors: Liu Panpan , Zhou Youyou , Chen Chao , Yan Bei , Li Lei , Zhu Wu , Li Jie , Chen Mingliang , Su Juan , Kuang Yehong , Chen Xiang , Peng Cong
Published: April 2023

Background

Although abnormal metabolism plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis, the details are unclear.

Objectives

Here, we identified to explore the role and mechanism of lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) on the pathogenesis of psoriasis.

Methods

The level of LPC in plasma and skin lesions and the expression of G2A on skin lesions of psoriasis patients were detected by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry, or immunohistochemistry, respectively. The glycolysis in the skin lesions of imiquimod (IMQ)‐induced psoriasis‐like mouse model was detected by extracellular acidification rate. LPC was subcutaneously injected into IMQ‐treated mouse ears, and the phenotype as well as the glycolysis were evaluated. Exploring the effects and mechanism of LPC on keratinocytes and CD4+ T cells by culturing primary keratinocytes and CD4+ T in vitro.

Results

We found that LPC was significantly increased both in the plasma and skin lesions of psoriatic patients, while G2A, exerting an essential role in LPC‐inducing biological functions, was increased in psoriatic lesions. The abundance of LPC was positively correlated with glycolytic activity in the psoriasis‐like mouse model. LPC treatment facilitated psoriasis‐like inflammation and glycolytic activity in skin lesions. Mechanistically, the LPC/G2A axis significantly triggered glycolytic activity and produced inflammatory factors in keratinocytes, and blockade of glycolysis abrogated LPC‐induced expression of inflammatory mediators in keratinocytes. LPC activated STAT1, resulting in recognition and binding to the promoters of GCK and PKLR, which are glycolytic rate‐limiting enzymes. Furthermore, the LPC/G2A axis directly benefited Th1 differentiation, which was dependent on LPC‐induced glycolytic activity. Notably, LPC indirectly facilitated Th17 differentiation by inducing the secretion of IL‐1β in keratinocytes‐T cells coculture system.

Conclusions

Taken together, our findings revealed the role of the LPC/G2A axis in the pathogenesis of psoriasis; targeting LPC/G2A is a potential strategy for psoriasis therapy.
Adalimumab combined with methotrexate versus adalimumab monotherapy in psoriasis: Three‐year follow‐up data of a single‐blind randomized controlled trial
Authors: van Huizen Astrid M. , van der Kraaij Gayle E. , Busard Celine I. , Ouwerkerk Wouter , van den Reek Juul M. P. A. , Menting Stef P. , Prens Errol P. , Rispens Theo , de Vries Annick , de Jong Elke M. G. J. , Lambert Jo , van Doorn Martijn B. A. , Spuls Phyllis I.
Published: April 2023

Background

Anti‐drug antibodies (ADA) are formed in patients treated with adalimumab (ADL). This might increase clearance of ADL, potentially causing a (secondary) non‐response. Combination therapy of ADL and methotrexate (MTX) reduces ADA levels and has a clinical benefit in rheumatologic diseases. In psoriasis however, the long‐term effectiveness and safety have not been studied.

Objectives

To investigate the three‐year follow‐up data of ADL combined with MTX compared to ADL monotherapy in ADL‐naive patients with moderate to severe plaque type psoriasis.

Methods

We conducted a multicentre RCT in the Netherlands and Belgium. Randomization was performed by a centralized online randomization service. Patients were seen every 12 weeks until week 145. Outcome assessors were blinded. We collected data on drug survival, effectiveness, safety, pharmacokinetics and immunogenicity of patients that started ADL combined with MTX compared to ADL monotherapy. We present descriptive analysis and patients were analysed according to the group initially randomized to. Patients becoming non‐adherent to the biologic were excluded from analyses.

Results

Sixty‐one patients were included and 37 patients (ADL group n = 17, ADL + MTX group n = 20) continued in the follow‐up study after 1 year. After 109 weeks and 145 weeks, there was a trend towards longer drug survival in the ADL + MTX group compared to the ADL group (week 109: 54.8% vs. 41.4%; p = 0.326, week 145: 51.6% vs. 41.4%; p = 0.464). At week 145, 7/13 patients were treated with MTX. In the ADL group, 4/12 patients that completed the study developed ADA, and 3/13 in the ADL + MTX group.

Conclusions

In this small study, there was no significant difference in ADL overall drug survival when it was initially combined with MTX, compared to ADL alone. Discontinuation due to adverse events was common in the combination group. To secure accessible healthcare, combination treatment of ADL and MTX can be considered in individual patients.
Infrared and hot drying of saffron petal (Crocus sativus L.): Effect on drying, energy, color, and rehydration
Authors: Sharifian Faroogh , Gharkhloo Zahra Rostami , Yamchi Abolfazl Akhoundzadeh , Kaveh Mohammad
Published: April 2023

In this study, the effect of infrared (IR) and hot air dryers on the drying properties of saffron petals was investigated. Drying of saffron petals was done under three level temperature 40, 50, and 60°C and distance from IR lamps 10, 14, and 20 cm and the main physical and thermal properties were measured. The highest value effective moisture diffusion (Deff) was evaluated for IR‐dried samples at 60°C and 10 cm with 5.57 × 10−7 m2/s. The lowest value of color changes is related to the sample dried at 40°C at a distance of 20 cm with a color change of 11.99 in the IR dryer. Increasing the drying temperature reduced the drying time and energy consumption and increased the drying rate and Deff. Also, the results showed that Midilli model was selected as the best model for drying saffron petals with an IR and hot air dryer.

Practical Applications

Due to the importance and sensitivity of saffron petals to the application of heat in the drying process, it is necessary to dry this product like other medicinal plants scientifically. Theoretical research, with the help of mathematical modeling and numerical simulation, provides a powerful and fast tool for analyzing the process of mass and heat transfer under natural drying conditions. Careful study of the drying kinetics of the product, evaluation of parameters affecting the physical quality properties, and the concomitant and reciprocal effects of these parameters is necessary. It can be used in the drying industry of medicinal plants.
Factors affecting the recruitment of Hispanic/Latinx American older adults in clinical trials in the United States: A scoping review
Authors: Rodriguez Dulce K. , Hewage Sumali A. , Periyakoil Vyjeyanthi S.
Published: April 2023

Objective

Participation of Hispanic/Latinx American older adults (HLAOA) in clinical trials is fundamental to health equity in aging research. However, information on strategies for the successful recruitment of this population in clinical trials is limited.

Design

This scoping review aims to identify hindering and facilitating factors that impact the recruitment of HLAOA in clinical trials in the United States.

Methods

Two databases (PubMed, EMBASE) were searched for original research articles from inception until March 2022 reporting on factors that engaged HLAoa (≥65) in clinical trials. One thousand and thirteen studies were scrutinized to identify 31 eligible articles.

Results

Most articles were from cancer clinical trials (14 studies). Hindering factors that impacted the recruitment of HLAoa in clinical trials were related to (i) study design and logistics challenges, (ii) challenges imposed by social determinants of health, (iii) communication barriers, and (iv) patients' mistrust, and (v) family issues. Facilitating factors include (i) effective modes of outreach, (ii) strategic clinical trial design, (iii) incorporating culturally‐respectful approaches that are tailored to the participants' sociocultural background, and (iv) bridging language barriers.

Conclusions

Successful recruitment of HLAOA into clinical trials requires identifying the study question, co‐designing the trial design, implementation, and evaluation in respectful collaboration with the Hispanic/Latinx community with careful attention to their needs and minimizing the study burden on this vulnerable population. Factors identified here may guide researchers to better understand the needs of HLAOA and successfully recruit them into clinical trials, leading to more equitable research that increases their representation in clinical research.
The trade‐offs of co‐ruminating with friends: A profile analysis
Authors: Tilton‐Weaver Lauree , Rose Amanda
Published: April 2023

Adolescents' co‐ruminating with friends has been tied to trade‐offs: having higher quality friendships but experiencing more depressive symptoms. To determine if individual youth experience these trade‐offs, we applied a person‐centered approach to Swedish adolescents' self‐reports of co‐rumination with friends, depressive symptoms, and friend support (n = 2767, aged 12–16, 52% girls; 88% Swedish). We found four latent profiles: Two high in co‐rumination and two low. One high co‐rumination profile exhibited the proposed trade‐offs; the other reported high friendship support and fewer depressive symptoms. Comparisons indicated that the trade‐offs profile were primarily girls and exhibited comparatively more difficulties with stress regulation, conceptions of their parents and themselves, and relations with peers. Focusing on the complexity of co‐rumination could reveal further nuances.
Dietary intake and quality for young adolescents in sub‐Saharan Africa: Status and influencing factors
Authors: Madzorera Isabel , Bromage Sabri , Mwanyika‐Sando Mary , Vandormael Alain , Sherfi Huda , Worku Amare , Shinde Sachin , Noor Ramadhani Abdallah , Baernighausen Till , Sharma Deepika , Fawzi Wafaie W.
Published: April 2023

Adolescents face the risk of the triple burden of malnutrition—the co‐existence of micronutrient deficiencies, underweight and overweight and obesity and related noncommunicable diseases. Poor‐quality diets are a modifiable risk factor for all forms of malnutrition in adolescents. However, there is limited knowledge about diet quality for African adolescents. We analyzed data from 4609 school‐going adolescents aged 10–15 years in Burkina Faso, Ethiopia, Sudan and Tanzania. Dietary intake was assessed using food frequency questionnaires, and diet quality computed using the Global Diet Quality Score (GDQS). Generalized estimating equations linear regression models were used to evaluate factors associated with adolescent diet quality. Mean adolescent age was 12.4 (±1.4) years and 54% of adolescents were female. Adolescents reported physical activity on 1.5 (±1.7) days/week. The mean GDQS (±SD) was 20.6 (±4.0) (maximum 40). Adolescent consumption of vegetables, fruit, nuts and seeds, eggs, fish and poultry was low, and refined grain consumption was relatively high. Boys consumed unhealthy foods less frequently but consumed fewer cruciferous vegetables and deep orange tubers. Older adolescents had higher fish and lower red meat consumption. Having an unemployed mother versus farmer (estimate −2.60, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −4.81, −0.39), and having 3–4 days of physical activity per week versus none (estimate 0.64, 95% CI: 0.11, 1.17) were associated with GDQS. We found evidence of poor‐quality adolescent diets and gender and age differences in the consumption of healthy diets. Programs to address poor‐quality diets should consider tailoring interventions for adolescent girls and boys of different ages and also consider the role of physical activity in these contexts.
Portfolio management: A new direction in public sector strategic management research and practice
Authors: Roberts Patrick , Hamilton Edwards Lauren
Published: April 2023

Portfolio management is widely used by large government agencies and nonprofits, but it is rarely discussed in public administration scholarship. Portfolio management tools can illuminate groups of projects that should be considered as priority investments by highlighting the relationship of risk to outcomes. This article explores historical and theoretical reasons for the neglect of portfolio management, and then proposes using portfolio management to update a classic strategic management framework to guide organizational choices in public administration. Though portfolio management ideas originated in the private sector, public sector portfolio management differs from its private sector counterpart by trading off risk with public value or mission outcomes rather than financial outcomes. Portfolio management is a tool to incorporate risk to mission in investment decisions. It holds promise for adding an intermediate‐level implementation tool to develop theories of public value. The paper concludes with hypotheses for future investigation.