bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Health literacy of forcibly displaced (migrant) women during the COVID-19 pandemic: a grounded theory study
Authors: Tempes Jana , Bittlingmayer Uwe , Bitzer Eva-Maria , Himmelsbach Ines
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The unexpected and rapid outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic increased the vulnerability of forcibly displaced (migrant) women, who were a social group already at risk of health inequities and poorer health outcomes. This study aims to examine the health literacy of forcibly displaced (migrant) women during the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany using a multidimensional health literacy model as a framework.

Design/methodology/approach

A grounded theory methodology was implemented including interviews with 33 forcibly displaced (migrant) women from July to September 2021. An experienced female researcher interviewed all forcibly displaced (migrant) women, and apart from one telephone interview, all interviews were conducted in person.

Findings

Following data analysis, the category, “Use of health information in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic of forcibly displaced (migrant) women”, was identified as a core category. The findings provide valuable insight into the health literacy of forcibly displaced (migrant) women during the COVID-19 pandemic. Societal and environmental determinants, personal determinants and situational determinants were identified as factors impacting health literacy. Furthermore, health literacy was distinguished as competence to make informed decisions in the health domains “health care” and “disease prevention”.

Originality/value

Although previous research often focuses on the deficits of forcibly displaced (migrants), this study highlights the resources forcibly displaced (migrant) women use to deal with health-related difficulties, especially during a crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Importantly, such resources were available even if the study participants did not speak the language of the immigration country.
Do business ethics moderate corporate corruption risk-ESG reporting relationship? Evidence from European ESG firms
Authors: Marzouki Achref , Chouaibi Jamel , Amara Tijani
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the relationship between corporate corruption risk and environmental, social and governance (ESG) reporting and if this relationship is moderated by business ethics.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from a sample of 347 European firms selected from the ESG Index between 2010 and 2020 were used to test the model using panel data and multiple regressions. This paper considered the feasible generalized least squares estimation for linear panel data models. A multiple regression model is used to analyze the moderating effect of business ethics on the association between corporate corruption risk and ESG reporting. For robustness analyses, the authors included the alternative measure of the dependent variable, and they applied the simultaneous equation model for the endogeneity test.

Findings

The empirical results reveal a negative relationship between corporate corruption risk and ESG reporting. Furthermore, the findings suggest that business ethics positively moderate the relationship between corporate corruption risk and ESG reporting.

Practical implications

This paper presents an enormous contribution to the various economic agents involved in the company. The results could attract the attention of socially responsible investors and, above all, corporate citizens. Moreover, the managers of corrupt companies could take into account the results of this study by being more committed to an optimized transparency strategy on ESG reporting.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the moderating role of business ethics on the relationship between corporate corruption risk and ESG reporting in the European context. It is also the first study documenting that business ethics reinforce the relationship between firm corruption and nonfinancial information transparency. This study fills a research gap as it expands the existing literature, which generally focuses on the impact of corporate corruption on ESG reporting.
Mechanical seal friction condition monitoring based on bispectral characteristics
Authors: Bi Haocheng , Hao Muming , Ren Baojie , Xinhui Sun , Li Tianzhao , Song Kailiang
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the monitoring of the friction condition of mechanical seals.

Design/methodology/approach

Acoustic emission signals from the friction of the seal end face were obtained, and their bispectral characteristics were extracted. The variation of non-Gaussian information with the degree of friction was investigated, and by combining bispectral characteristics with information entropy, a bispectral entropy index was established to represent the friction level of the seal end face.

Findings

In the start-up stage, the characteristic frequency amplitude of the micro-convex body contact is obvious, the friction of the end face is abnormal, the complexity of the system increases in a short time and the bispectral entropy rises continuously in a short time. In the stable operation stage, the characteristic frequency amplitude of the micro-convex body contact varies with the intensity of the seal face friction, the seal face friction is stable and the bispectral entropy fluctuates up and down for a period of time.

Originality/value

The bispectral analysis method is applied to the seal friction monitoring, the seal frequency domain characteristics are extracted, the micro-convex body contact characteristic frequency is defined and the bispectral entropy characteristic index is proposed, which provides a certain theoretical basis for the mechanical seal friction monitoring.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-07-2023-0242/
Antecedents of Islamic welfare: productivity, education, and the financial aspect
Authors: Hapsari Meri Indri , Mahmud Amin Hanif , Herianingrum Sri , Fauzy R. Moh Qudsi , Ab. Hamid Siti Ngayesah , Prabaswara Arka , Masfiyah Lina Mawaddatul
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyse, firstly, whether education, financial inclusion, financial literacy and financial planning can be antecedents that affect Islamic welfare and, secondly, whether productivity can be a mediator to improve Islamic welfare.

Design/methodology/approach

This study involved quantitative research using data obtained from a survey. The respondents were 538 Muslim families in East Java, Indonesia. Structural equation modelling was used for the analysis.

Findings

This study tested 13 hypotheses, of which 10 were accepted. The accepted hypotheses refer to the effects of financial literacy on productivity, financial inclusion on productivity, financial planning on productivity, financial planning on Islamic welfare, education on Islamic welfare, productivity on Islamic welfare, financial literacy and productivity on Islamic welfare, financial inclusion and productivity on Islamic welfare and financial planning and productivity on Islamic welfare, as well as the effects of financial inclusion on Islamic welfare. Meanwhile, three hypotheses were not accepted; they refer to the effects of financial literacy on Islamic welfare, the effect of education on productivity, as well as the impact of education and productivity on Islamic welfare.

Research limitations/implications

The study was conducted only with respondents living in East Java, so the results depict the condition of Muslim families’ welfare in East Java.

Originality/value

Research into the antecedents of Islamic welfare has received little academic attention, so this study explores how education, financial inclusion, financial literacy, financial planning and productivity could affect Islamic welfare among Muslim families.
Spillovers between cryptocurrencies, gold and stock markets: implication for hedging strategies and portfolio diversification under the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Lamine Ahlem , Jeribi Ahmed , Fakhfakh Tarek
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study analyzes the static and dynamic risk spillover between US/Chinese stock markets, cryptocurrencies and gold using daily data from August 24, 2018, to January 29, 2021. This study provides practical policy implications for investors and portfolio managers.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use the Diebold and Yilmaz (2012) spillover indices based on the forecast error variance decomposition from vector autoregression framework. This approach allows the authors to examine both return and volatility spillover before and after the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. First, the authors used a static analysis to calculate the return and volatility spillover indices. Second, the authors make a dynamic analysis based on the 30-day moving window spillover index estimation.

Findings

Generally, results show evidence of significant spillovers between markets, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, cryptocurrencies and gold markets are net receivers of risk. This study provides also practical policy implications for investors and portfolio managers. The reached findings suggest that the mix of Bitcoin (or Ethereum), gold and equities could offer diversification opportunities for US and Chinese investors. Gold, Bitcoin and Ethereum can be considered as safe havens or as hedging instruments during the COVID-19 crisis. In contrast, Stablecoins (Tether and TrueUSD) do not offer hedging opportunities for US and Chinese investors.

Originality/value

The paper's empirical contribution lies in examining both return and volatility spillover between the US and Chinese stock market indices, gold and cryptocurrencies before and after the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. This contribution goes a long way in helping investors to identify optimal diversification and hedging strategies during a crisis.
How fraud impacts individuals’ wellbeing – academic insights and gaps
Authors: Kassem Rasha
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to discuss the impact of fraud on individuals’ wellbeing by drawing on insights from the academic literature. It also highlights literature gaps and suggests new avenues for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on a comprehensive literature review to gain insights into the impact of fraud on individuals’ wellbeing and identify literature gaps. The review is not limited to a particular date or a specific discipline.

Findings

The results reveal a general consensus in the literature that fraud severely and negatively impacts individuals’ wellbeing. Fraud’s impact on victims goes beyond financial hardship. It could result in stress, anger, upset, worries, fear of future victimisation, shame, loss of self-esteem, health deterioration, loss of confidence in financial matters, suicide ideation, unemployment, homelessness, less happiness and life satisfaction and broken relationships. However, research on how fraud impacts individuals’ wellbeing is scarce and has yet to receive substantial attention.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first comprehensive literature review compiling evidence on the impact of fraud on individuals’ wellbeing.
Exploring the pathways to enhanced task performance: the roles of supportive leadership, team psychological safety, and mindful organizing
Authors: Saleem Muhammad Shoaib , Isha Ahmad Shahrul Nizam , Awan Maheen Iqbal
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The study investigated the predictive role of supportive leadership and psychological safety for mindful organizing and the subsequent impact of mindful organizing on individual task performance. Mindful organizing, a concept from high-reliability organizations (HROs), can improve performance in various industrial settings. The limited availability of novel predictors for mindful organizing necessitates exploring this concept in the context of adventure tourism.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a cross-sectional research approach, 394 respondents were selected from the adventure tourism industry in Malaysia. The proposed causal research model was evaluated through structural equation modeling (SEM), aggregation and bootstrapping.

Findings

Psychological safety and supportive leadership significantly impacted mindful organizing. Mindful organizing, in turn, was positively associated with individual task performance. The mediating role of mindful organizing between psychological safety and task performance was statistically significant. However, the mediating role of mindful organizing between supportive leadership and task performance was not statistically significant.

Practical implications

Managers in the adventure tourism industry should consider applying mindful organizing to increase employee productivity and develop collective sensemaking. Also, developing a culture of support among managers and coworkers, emphasizing the team's psychological safety, may boost the morale and productivity of the workforce.

Originality/value

This research has identified and empirically tested new antecedents, psychological safety and leadership for mindful organizing in the adventure tourism context and has addressed a significant research gap (Sutcliffe et al., 2016) by broadening the scope of mindful organizing research to encompass contexts beyond those exclusively considered HROs.
Blockchain adoption in the food and beverage industry from a behavioral reasoning perspective: moderating roles of supply chain partnerships
Authors: Jang Ha-Won , Jung Hyo Sun , Cho Meehee
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Blockchains provide significant benefits for business operations due to its transparency, traceability and information sharing. However, application to the food and beverage (F&B) industry was scarce. The purpose of this study is to explore how to form F&B managers’ blockchain adoption by applying behavioral reasoning theory (BRT). Additionally, supply chain partnerships (SCPs) were tested for the potential moderating roles within BRT. This study’s findings expand existing knowledge by providing novel information for F&B management.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from F&B managers by using an online survey method. A structural equation modeling and multi-group analysis were performed to test the hypothesized relationships.

Findings

Findings revealed that the positive effects of “reasons for” on “attitudes,” and “adoption intentions” while “reasons against” did not show such effects. Environmental benefits of blockchains were found to lead more positive attitudes while traditional barriers were the greatest constraints for adopting blockchains. This study supports the significant moderating roles of SCPs within the context of F&B blockchain adoption.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the technology literature in the foodservice context by applying BRT as a theoretical lens. The importance of developing SCPs for F&B blockchain adoption and exploitation is highlighted.
Climate of fear and job apathy as fallout of supervisory nonphysical hostility toward casual workers in the banking industry
Authors: Enwereuzor Ibeawuchi K. , Onyishi Amuche B. , Ekwesaranna Fumnanya
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Supervisory abuse is a form of destructive leadership. Research has continued to document many deleterious consequences associated with such improper behavior at work. This study further extends its consequences by testing a model linking abusive supervision to job apathy through a climate of fear.

Design/methodology/approach

This study drew on affective events theory in investigating the role of the climate of fear in instances where casual workers perceive abuse in commercial banks. A three-wave and three-week time lag approach was adopted for data collection from 245 casual workers in southeastern Nigeria.

Findings

Results from partial least squares structural equation modeling supported the model by showing that abusive supervision had a direct positive relationship with the climate of fear and job apathy, while the climate of fear related positively to job apathy. Results also revealed that the climate of fear partially mediated the relationship between abusive supervision and job apathy.

Practical implications

Managers can be trained to become more supportive and less abusive to address the problem of abusive supervision. Furthermore, casual workers are encouraged to report any abuse from their manager to higher authorities inside or outside their workplace.

Originality/value

This study sheds new insights and advances the abusive supervision literature by investigating the climate of fear as the underlying mechanism.
Intelligent oil field technology maturity level assessment: using the technology readiness level criteria
Authors: Pouran Manjily Hajar , Alborzi Mahmood , Behrouz Turaj , Seyed- Hosseini Seyed Mohammad
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to focused on conducting a comprehensive assessment of the technology readiness level (TRL) of Iran’s oil field intelligence compared to other countries with similar oil reservoirs. The ultimate objective is to optimize oil extraction from this field by leveraging intelligent technology. Incorporating intelligent technology in oil fields can significantly simplify operations, especially in challenging-to-access areas and increase oil production, thereby generating higher income and profits for the field owner.

Design/methodology/approach

This study evaluates the level of maturity of present oil field technologies from the perspective of an intelligent oil field by using criteria for measuring the readiness of technologies. A questionnaire was designed and distributed to 18 competent oil industry professionals. Using weighted criteria, a mean estimate of oil field technical maturity was derived from the responses of respondents. Researchers evaluated the level of technological readiness for Brunei, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia’s oil fields using scientific studies.

Findings

None of the respondents believe that the intelligent oil field in Iran is highly developed and has a TRL 9 readiness level. The bulk of experts believed that intelligent technologies in the Iran oil industry have only reached TRL 2 and 1, or are merely in the transfer phase of fundamental and applied research. Clearly, Brunei, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia have the most developed oil fields in the world. In Iran, academics and executive and contracting firms in the field of intelligent oil fields are working to intelligently develop young oil fields.

Originality/value

This study explores the level of maturity of intelligent technology in one of Iran’s oil fields. It compares it to the level of maturity of intelligent technology in several other intelligent oil fields throughout the globe. Increasing intelligent oil fields TRL enables better reservoir management and causes more profit and oil recovery.
An explorative and confirmative factor analysis of the Leadership and Management Inventory-II among staff working in elderly care
Authors: Skytt Bernice , Högberg Hans , Engström Maria
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The Purpose of the study was to investigate the construct validity and internal consistency of the LaMI among staff in the context of elderly care in Sweden.

Design/methodology/approach

Questionnaire data from a longitudinal study of staff working in elderly care were used. Data were collected using the Leadership and Management Inventory. First data collection was for explorative factor analysis (n = 1,149), and the second collection, one year later, was for confirmatory factor analysis (n = 1,061).

Findings

The explorative factor analysis resulted in a two-factor solution that explained 70.2% of the total variance. Different models were tested in the confirmatory factor analysis. The final model, a two-factor solution where three items were omitted, showed acceptable results.

Originality/value

The instrument measures both leadership and management performance and can be used to continually measure managers’ performances as perceived by staff to identify areas for development.
Sponsorship, Covid-19 and mega sport events: the case of UEFA Euro 2020
Authors: Koronios Konstantinos , Ntasis Lazaros , Dimitropoulos Panos
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to explore spectators' awareness of and attitudes toward sponsoring firms as well as to propose a model predicting their purchase and word-of-mouth (WOM) intentions toward the sponsors of a major sporting event during a pandemic crisis.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative method was used to collect the data, with 1,259 questionnaires being effectively collected and analyzed using SPSS and AMOS. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), path analysis and structural equation modeling (SEM) were used to analyze the data.

Findings

Factors such as sports involvement, sincerity, social media use, beliefs about sponsorship, sponsor's image, Covid-19 beliefs and emotions, awareness of and attitude toward sponsors were found to significantly predict spectators' purchase and WOM intentions.

Originality/value

The results support the structural equation model, providing a multidisciplinary conceptual framework that highlights the significance of comprehending the role of significant factors in sponsorship efficiency during the Covid-19 crisis. The proposed framework adds to the knowledge corpus of this field.
SolBeePop: A model of solitary bee populations in agricultural landscapes
Authors: Schmolke Amelie , Galic Nika , Hinarejos Silvia
Published: November 2023

With their large diversity of species, solitary bees are important pollinators of crops and native plant communities in agricultural landscapes. Stressors such as changing landscapes, climate and pesticide exposures may affect populations differently, dependent on each species' ecological traits.

We developed a population model for solitary bees, SolBeePop, which can be applied to simulate a variety of species by using species‐specific traits, including the nesting strategies. Species' phenological traits are mechanistically combined with input time series capturing temporal and spatial variability in landscape compositions.

Calibration and validation of the model with empirical study data demonstrate that the model can capture realistic dynamics in bee populations. In simulations conducted representing four species, Osmia bicornis, Megachile rotundata, Nomia melanderi and Eucera pruinosa, identical conditions and assumed nesting resource limitations resulted in different population‐level outcomes, indicating the importance of interactions between external factors and species‐specific traits including phenological, survival and reproductive traits.

Synthesis and applications. The publicly available model is intended as a tool for the assessment of population‐level outcomes of stressors, for instance, the limitation of floral resources in agricultural landscapes, limitation of nesting habitat and the exposure to pesticides. Realistic landscape scenarios can be tested and available data for one species can be used to estimate outcomes in other solitary bee species, informing conservation plans and risk assessment approaches to support managed and natural populations in the field.
How a ‘good parent’ decides on childhood vaccination. Demonstrating independence and deliberation during Dutch healthcare visits
Authors: Prettner Robert , te Molder Hedwig , Humă Bogdana
Published: November 2023

Childhood vaccination consultations are considered an important phase in parents’ decision‐making process. To date, only a few empirical studies conducted in the United States have investigated real‐life consultations. To address this gap, we recorded Dutch vaccination conversations between healthcare providers and parents during routine health consultations for their newborns. The data were analysed using Conversation Analysis and Discursive Psychology. We found that the topic of vaccination was often initiated with ‘Have you already thought about vaccination?’ (HYATAV), and that this formulation was consequential for parental identity work. Exploring the interactional trajectories engendered by this initiation format we show that: (1) interlocutors treat the question as consisting of two types of queries, (2) conversational trajectories differ according to which of the queries is attended to and that (3) parents work up a ‘good parent’ identity in response to HYATAV, by demonstrating that they think about their child’s vaccination beforehand and make their decisions independently. Our findings shed new light on the interactional unfolding of parental vaccination decisions.
Multimorbidity as chronic crisis: ‘Living on’ with multiple long‐term health conditions in a socially disadvantaged London borough
Authors: van Blarikom Esca , Fudge Nina , Swinglehurst Deborah
Published: November 2023

Contemporary health services are primarily designed around single diseases. People with multimorbidity (multiple long‐term health conditions) often become burdened by accumulated treatments. Through multimodal fieldwork in a socially disadvantaged London borough, we explore how people living with multimorbidity navigate conditions of ‘chronic crisis’, encompassing ill‐health, overmedicalisation, polypharmacy and social exclusion. Participants in our study frequently experience ‘existential stuckness’, exacerbated by processes of social exclusion. We argue that diagnoses and treatments should account for people’s unique aetiologies, and prioritise the notion of ‘flourishing’ over ‘cure’ as the absence of disease is not always achievable. To foster this emphasis on flourishing, we advocate for a dialogical turn in diagnostic processes that better support patients’ existential needs in the context of long‐term illness.
Uterine cervical conisation and chorioamnionitis: A nationwide observational study
Authors: Wada Yoshimitsu , Takahashi Hironori , Ogoyama Manabu , Horie Kenji , Suzuki Hirotada , Usui Rie , Jwa Seung Chik , Ohkuchi Akihide , Fujiwara Hiroyuki
Published: November 2023

Objective

To investigate whether conisation increases chorioamnionitis (CAM) and assess whether this risk differs between preterm and term periods. Furthermore, we estimated mediation effects of CAM between conisation and preterm birth (PTB).

Design

A nationwide observational study.

Setting

Japan.

Population

Singleton pregnant women derived from the perinatal registry database of the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynaecology between 2013 and 2019.

Methods

The association between a history of conisation and clinical CAM was examined using a multivariable logistic regression model with multiple imputation. We conducted mediation analysis to estimate effects of CAM on PTB following conisation.

Main Outcome Measures

Clinical CAM.

Results

Of 1 500 206 singleton pregnant women, 6961 (0.46%) underwent conisation and 1 493 245 (99.5%) did not. Clinical CAM occurred in 150 (2.2%) and 11 484 (0.8%) women with and without conisation, respectively. Conisation was associated with clinical CAM (odds ratio [OR] 3.09; 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.63–3.64; p < 0.001) (risk difference 1.57%; 95% CI 1.20–1.94). The association was detected among 171 440 women with PTB (OR 3.09; 95% CI 2.57–3.71), whereas it was not significant among 1 328 284 with term birth (OR 0.88; 95% CI 0.58–1.34). OR of total effect of conisation on PTB was 2.71, OR of natural indirect effect (effect explained by clinical CAM) was 1.04, and OR of natural direct effect (effect unexplained by clinical CAM) was 2.61. The proportion mediated was 5.9%.

Conclusions

Conisation increased CAM occurrence. Obstetricians should be careful regarding CAM in women with conisation, especially in preterm period. Bacterial infections may be an important cause of PTB after conisation.
Nutritionally enriched tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) grown with wood distillate: chemical and biological characterization for quality assessment
Authors: Fedeli Riccardo , Marotta Ludovica , Frattaruolo Luca , Panti Alice , Carullo Gabriele , Fusi Fabio , Saponara Simona , Gemma Sandra , Butini Stefania , Cappello Anna Rita , Vannini Andrea , Campiani Giuseppe , Loppi Stefano
Published: November 2023

Bio‐based products are nowadays useful tools able to affect the productivity and quality of conventionally cultivated crops. Several bio‐based products are currently on the market; one of the newest and most promising is the wood distillate (WD) derived from the pyrolysis process of waste biomass after timber. Its foliar application has been widely investigated and shown to promote the antioxidant profile of cultivated crops. WD was used here as additive for the cultivation of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) plants. The application improved quality (chemical) parameters, minerals, polyphenols, and lycopene contents of tomato fruits. The extracts of WD‐treated and untreated tomatoes have been chemically and biologically characterized. The 1H‐NMR and ESI‐mass spectrometry analyses of the extracts revealed the presence of different fatty acids, amino acids and sugars. In particular, the WD‐treated tomatoes showed the presence of pyroglutamic acid and phloridzin derivatives, but also dihydrokaempferol, naringenin glucoside, cinnamic acid, and kaempferol‐3‐O‐glucoside. When tested in cells, the extracts showed a promising anti‐inflammatory profile in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Furthermore, the extracts displayed a slight vasorelaxant activity on rat aorta rings (either endothelium‐denuded or endothelium‐intact) pre‐contracted with phenylephrine or potassium chloride.

Practical Application

Wood distillate has been used for tomato plant growth. Tomatoes showed improved nutritional parameters, and their extracts displayed antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activities.
Pulsed electric field treatment of soymilk: Impact on Kunitz trypsin inhibitor allergenicity, antinutritional factor, and aroma characteristics
Authors: Anbarasan R. , Jaganmohan R. , Anandakumar S. , Mahendran R.
Published: November 2023

Allergens, antinutritional factors, and lipoxygenase (LOX) enzyme present in soymilk limit its consumption as vegan milk. Therefore, the present study focuses on reducing these limiting factors using pulsed electric field (PEF) treatment. In this regard, 20–40 kV/cm electric field was applied to soymilk for the effective treatment periods of 450, 1350, and 2250 ms. After the treatment, a reduction in pH (6.60 ± 0.10 to 6.47 ± 0.12) and an increase in the conductivity (173.03 ± 0.40 to 177.33 ± 0.72 µS) were observed. Furthermore, FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy), UV (Ultra Violet) intrinsic spectra, and CD (Circular Dichroism) spectra (α‐helix reduction and β‐sheet increase) data indicated mild structural changes in the proteins of soymilk. As a result, PEF treatment reduced the soymilk allergenicity (67.33 ± 20.48%), LOX activity (69.45 ± 9.38%), and trypsin inhibitor activity (75.61 ± 4.04%). Apart from that, the color, viscosity, and volatiles of soymilk also had significant changes due to PEF treatment. The aroma changes in PEF‐treated soymilk were highly influenced by two major principal component (PC1 & PC2) groups and they accounted for about 70% of the aroma variations. However, these changes were mild and did not induce any off‐flavors and the treatment remained effective against the quality hazards like allergens, antinutritional factors, and LOX enzyme.

Practical Application

PEF treatment of soymilk reduces the possible allergic reactions in human body at least by 30%. Further, it reduces the antinutritional factor and off‐odor inducing compounds. Therefore, the PEF treatment can be used in industries as a pre‐treatment to produce allergen and antinutritional compounds free protein isolates from soybeans.
Clinical definition of secondary resistance to immunotherapy in non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Huang Dingzhi , Lin Gen , Chu Qian , Hu Yi , Wang Jun , Wang Zhijie , Yang Fan , Zhong Wenzhao , Zhou Chengzhi , Zhu Bo , Ai Xinghao , Cao Baoshan , Cao Yabing , Chen Mingqiu , Chen Xiaohui , Chu Tianqing , Duan Jianchun , Fan Yun , Fang Yong , Feng Shuitu , Feng Weineng , Guo Hui , Han Chengbo , He Yong , Hong Shaodong , Hu Jie , Huang Meijuan , Huang Yan , Jiang Da , Jiang Kan , Jiang Richeng , Jin Bo , Jin Shi , Li Jisheng , Li Min , Li Ziming , Li Chao , Lin Jie , Liu Anwen , Liu Si‐Yang Maggie , Liu Yutao , Liu Zhefeng , Liu Zhe , Liu Zhenhua , Liu Zhentian , Liu Zhigang , Lu Yuping , Lv Tangfeng , Ma Zhiyong , Miao Qian , Peng Min , Pu Xingxiang , Ren Xiu Bao , Shan Jianzhen , Shan Jinlu , Shen Peng , Shen Bo , Shi Meiqi , Song Yong , Song Zhengbo , Su ChunXia , Sun Jianguo , Tian Panwen , Wang Jinliang , Wang Feng , Wang Huijuan , Wang Jialei , Wang Qian , Wang Wenxian , Wang Yan , Wu Lin , Wu Fang , Xia Yang , Xie Congying , Xie Conghua , Xin Tao , Xiong Jianping , Xu Haipeng , Xu Song , Xu Yiquan , Xu Bin , Xu Chunwei , Yan Xiaolong , Yang Zhenzhou , Yao Wenxiu , Yu Yao , Feng Ye , Yu Zongyang , Yu Yongfeng , Yue Dongsheng , Zhang Haibo , Zhang HongMei , Zhang Li , Zhang Longfeng , Zhang Qiuyu , Zhang Tongmei , Zhang Bicheng , Zhao Jun , Zhao Mingfang , Zheng Xiaobin , Zhong Fengqiao , Zhou Jin , Zhou Penghui , Zhu Zhengfei , Zou Juntao , Zou Zihua
Published: November 2023

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (PD‐1/PD‐L1 and CTLA‐4 blockade) have revolutionized the treatment landscape in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Secondary resistance to immunotherapy (IO), which poses a substantial challenge in clinical settings, occurs in several initial responders. Currently, new treatment approaches have been extensively evaluated in investigational studies for these patients to tackle this difficult problem; however, the lack of consistency in clinical definition, uniform criteria for enrollment in clinical trials, and interpretation of results remain significant hurdles to progress. Thus, our expert panel comprehensively synthesized data from current studies to propose a practical clinical definition of secondary resistance to immunotherapy in NSCLC in metastatic and neoadjuvant settings. In addition to patients who received IO alone (including IO‐IO combinations), we also generated a definition for patients treated with chemotherapy plus IO. This consensus aimed to provide guidance for clinical trial design and facilitate future discussions with investigators. It should be noted that additional updates in this consensus are required when new data is available.
Calorie restriction reduces biomarkers of cellular senescence in humans
Authors: Aversa Zaira , White Thomas A. , Heeren Amanda A. , Hulshizer Cassondra A. , Saul Dominik , Zhang Xu , Molina Anthony J. A. , Redman Leanne M. , Martin Corby K. , Racette Susan B. , Huffman Kim M. , Bhapkar Manjushri , Khosla Sundeep , Das Sai Krupa , Fielding Roger A. , Atkinson Elizabeth J. , LeBrasseur Nathan K.
Published: November 2023

Calorie restriction (CR) with adequate nutrient intake is a potential geroprotective intervention. To advance this concept in humans, we tested the hypothesis that moderate CR in healthy young‐to‐middle‐aged individuals would reduce circulating biomarkers of cellular senescence, a fundamental mechanism of aging and aging‐related conditions. Using plasma specimens from the Comprehensive Assessment of Long‐term Effects of Reducing Intake of Energy (CALERIE™) phase 2 study, we found that CR significantly reduced the concentrations of several senescence biomarkers at 12 and 24 months compared to an ad libitum diet. Using machine learning, changes in biomarker concentrations emerged as important predictors of the change in HOMA‐IR and insulin sensitivity index at 12 and 24 months, and the change in resting metabolic rate residual at 12 months. Finally, using adipose tissue RNA‐sequencing data from a subset of participants, we observed a significant reduction in a senescence‐focused gene set in response to CR at both 12 and 24 months compared to baseline. Our results advance the understanding of the effects of CR in humans and further support a link between cellular senescence and metabolic health.
From threatened to threatening: Impacts of a reintroduced predator on reintroduced prey
Authors: Stepkovitch B. , Neave G. , Jensen M. A. , Tuft K. , Moseby K. E.
Published: November 2023

Despite the recent global increase in projects utilizing conservation fencing, reintroductions of predators to fenced conservation reserves are rare. Reintroducing threatened predators into closed ecosystems raises potential issues of overabundance, population viability and inbreeding. In particular, impacts to resident prey species are not well studied across predator reintroductions worldwide, in part due to the difficulties in measuring predator impacts without adequate control areas. Over the 4 years following release, we used multiple lines of evidence and a paired treatment and control area to assess the potential impact of a reintroduced threatened predator, the western quoll, on four reintroduced threatened mammal species in a fenced reserve. Diet analysis, radio‐tracking and direct observation suggested that quolls killed and consumed all four reintroduced threatened native prey species, but two of these prey species (bettongs and bandicoots) were preferred prey. Abundance indices of these two prey species declined in parts of the reserve where quolls were present relative to control areas, yet local extinction did not occur. Quoll hunting behaviour suggested that these preferences may be driven, in part, by differences in the detectability and accessibility of similar‐sized prey. Dietary selection for threatened prey was reduced at times when native rodents, a highly preferred prey species, were in high abundance. The presence of rodents, coupled with the quoll‐exclusion control area and carcass dumps, may have protected reintroduced threatened prey from local extinction. Predator reintroductions to fenced reserves may help maintain ecosystem balance; however, predators may be incompatible with conservation of some threatened prey species unless alternative common prey are present or intensive management actions are implemented.
Regulation of ethanol‐mediated dopamine elevation by glycine receptors located on cholinergic interneurons in the nucleus accumbens
Authors: Loftén Anna , Adermark Louise , Ericson Mia , Söderpalm Bo
Published: November 2023

Alcohol use disorder is one of the major psychiatric disorders worldwide, and there are many factors and effects contributing to the disorder, for example, the experience of ethanol reward. The rewarding and reinforcing properties of ethanol have been linked to activation of the mesolimbic dopamine system, an effect that appears to involve glycine receptors (GlyRs) in the nucleus accumbens. On which neuronal subtypes these receptors are located is, however, not known. The aim of this study was to explore the role of GlyRs on cholinergic interneurons (CIN) in sustaining extracellular dopamine levels and in ethanol‐induced dopamine release. To this end, CIN were ablated by anti‐choline acetyltransferase‐saporin administered locally in the nucleus accumbens of male Wistar rats. Changes in dopamine levels induced by ablation, ethanol and/or a GlyR antagonist were monitored using in vivo microdialysis. The GlyRs antagonist strychnine depressed extracellular dopamine in a similar manner independent on local ablation, suggesting that GlyRs on CIN are not important for sustaining the extracellular dopamine tone. However, a low concentration of strychnine hampered ethanol‐induced dopamine release in sham‐treated animals, whilst no reduction was seen in ablated animals, suggesting that GlyRs located on CIN are involved in ethanol‐induced dopamine release. Further, in ablated rats, ethanol‐induced increases of the extracellular levels of the GlyR agonists glycine and taurine were attenuated. In conclusion, this study suggests that CIN are not important for GlyR‐mediated regulation of basal dopamine output, but that CIN ablation blunts the ethanol‐induced dopamine release, putatively by reducing the release of GlyR agonists.
Extinction and reinstatement of methamphetamine‐induced conditioned place preference in zebrafish
Authors: Chen Liao‐Chen , Chan Ming‐Huan , Chen Hwei‐Hsien
Published: November 2023

Conditioned place preference (CPP) paradigm in zebrafish has been used to measure drug reward, but there is limited research on CPP reinstatement to determine relapse vulnerability. The present study aimed to investigate extinction and reinstatement of methamphetamine (MA)‐induced CPP in zebrafish and evaluate the model's predictive validity. Zebrafish received different doses of MA (0–60 mg/kg) during CPP training. The preferred dose of MA at 40 mg/kg was used for extinction via either confined or nonconfined procedures. The extinguished CPP was reinstated by administering a priming dose of MA (20 mg/kg) or various stressors. To assess persistent susceptibility to reinstatement, MA CPP and reinstatement were retested following 14 days of abstinence. In addition, the effects of SCH23390, naltrexone, and clonidine on MA CPP during acquisition, expression, or reinstatement phases were monitored. MA induced CPP in a dose‐dependent manner. Both nonconfined and confined extinction procedures time‐dependently reduced the time spent on the MA‐paired side. A priming dose of MA, chasing stress, or yohimbine reinstated the extinguished CPP. After 14 days of abstinence, the MA CPP remained extinguished and was significantly reinstated by MA priming or chasing stress. Similar to the observations in rodents, SCH23390 suppressed the acquisition of MA CPP, naltrexone reduced the expression and MA priming‐induced reinstatement, while clonidine prevented stress‐induced reinstatement of MA CPP. This work expanded the zebrafish CPP paradigm to include extinction and reinstatement phases, demonstrating predictive validity and highlighting its potential as a valuable tool for exploring drug relapse.
Effects of wetland connectivity on overwintering and movement behaviours of Australian freshwater turtles
Authors: Van Dyke James U. , McPhan Luke M. , Howard Katie , Hamilton Tracy , Ross Liticia , Watts Robyn J.
Published: November 2023

Freshwater turtles are important consumers in Australian freshwater ecosystems. They serve as scavengers, nutrient regulators, and as food sources and Totems for Traditional Owners throughout Australia. Despite their importance, most Australian freshwater turtle species are declining. The impact of winter wetland drying on turtle populations remains unknown, and winter exposure of hibernating turtles may be an important additional source of mortality. We aimed to examine turtle responses to seasonal and episodic wetland drying in wetlands using acoustic telemetry and active trapping. Wetlands were chosen that spanned a range of hydrological connectivity to the adjacent Edward/Kolety‐Wakool River. We found that tagged Emydura macquarii typically exit wetlands disconnected from the adjacent permanent river prior to winter, and overwinter in the river. Female E. macquarii rapidly re‐entered ‘home’ wetlands (wetlands in which they were initially tagged) the following spring, whereas males tended to leave the study area, returning occasionally. Although we were not able to evaluate a winter drying event, one of the wetlands experienced partial summer drying. All three local turtle species (E. macquarii, Chelodina expansa, C. longicollis) exited the wetland long before winter drying would have become a potential threat. Our results suggest that turtles in this system may be protected from winter wetland drying because they move to the adjacent permanent river prior to winter. Spending the winter in the river channel reduces the risks of being trapped in a drying wetland as temperatures drop in winter.
Oral versus intravenous antibiotics in the treatment of uncomplicated colonic diverticulitis: results of a randomized non‐inferiority control trial
Authors: McClintock Sam , Stupart Douglas , Hoh Su Mei , Redden Ann‐Maree , Schultz Belinda , Robertson Amy , Moore Eileen , Pollard James , Guest Glenn , Watters David
Published: November 2023

Background

Colonic diverticular disease is common and its incidence increases with age, with uncomplicated diverticulitis being the most common acute presentation (1). This typically results in inpatient admission, placing a significant burden on healthcare services (2). We aimed to determine the safety and effectiveness of using intravenous or oral antibiotics in the treatment of uncomplicated diverticulitis on 30‐day unplanned admissions, c‐reactive protein (CRP), White Cell Count (WCC), pain resolution, cessation of pain medication, return to normal nutrition, and return to normal bowel function.

Methods

This single centre, 2‐arm, parallel, 1:1, unblinded non‐inferiority randomized controlled trial compared the safety and efficacy of oral antibiotics versus intravenous antibiotics in the outpatient treatment of uncomplicated colonic diverticulitis. Inclusion criteria were patients older than 18 years of age with CT proven acute uncomplicated colonic diverticulitis (Modified Hinchey Classification Stage 0–1a). Patients were randomly allocated receive either intravenous or oral antibiotics, both groups being treated in the outpatient setting with a Hospital in the Home (HITH) service. The primary outcome was the 30‐day unplanned admission rate, secondary outcomes were biochemical markers, time to pain resolution, time to cessation of pain medication, time to return to normal function and time to return to normal bowel function.

Results

In total 118 patients who presented with uncomplicated colonic diverticulitis were recruited into the trial. Fifty‐eight participants were treated with IV antibiotics, and 60 were given oral antibiotics. We found there was no significant difference between groups with regards to 30‐day unplanned admissions or inflammatory markers. There was also no significant difference with regards to time to pain resolution, cessation of pain medication use, return to normal nutrition, or return to normal bowel function.

Conclusion

Outpatient management of uncomplicated diverticulitis with oral antibiotics proved equally as safe and efficacious as intravenous antibiotic treatment in this randomized non‐inferiority control trial.
Heterogeneity in the longitudinal courses of global functioning in children at familial risk of major psychiatric disorders: Association with trauma and familial characteristics
Authors: Bureau Alexandre , Berthelot Nicolas , Ricard Jasmin , Lafrance Camille , Jomphe Valérie , Dioni Abdoulaye , Fortin‐Fabbro Énora , Boisvert Marie‐Claude , Maziade Michel
Published: November 2023

Objectives

The extent to which heterogeneity in childhood risk trajectories may underlie later heterogeneity in schizophrenia (SZ), bipolar disorder (BP), and major depressive disorder (MDD) remains a chief question. Answers may optimally be found by studying the longitudinal trajectories of children born to an affected parent. We aimed to differentiate trajectories of global functioning and their sensitive periods from the age of 6 to 17 years in children at familial risk (FHRs).

Methods

First, a latent class mixed model analysis (LCMM) was applied to yearly ratings of the Children's Global Assessment Scale (CGAS) from the age of 6 to 17 years in 170 FHRs born to a parent affected by DSM‐IV SZ (N = 37), BP (N = 82) or MDD (N = 51). Then, we compared the obtained Classes or trajectories of FHRs in terms of sex, parental diagnosis, IQ, child clinical status, childhood trauma, polygenic risk score (PRS), and outcome in transition to illness.

Results

The LCMM on yearly CGAS trajectories identified a 4‐class solution showing markedly different childhood and adolescence dynamic courses and temporal vulnerability windows marked by a functioning decline and a degree of specificity in parental diagnosis. Moreover, IQ, trauma exposure, PRS level, and timing of later transition to illness differentiated the trajectories. Almost half (46%) of the FHRs exhibited a good and stable global functioning trajectory.

Conclusions

FHRs of major psychiatric disorders show heterogeneous functional decline during development associated with parental diagnosis, polygenic risk loading, and childhood trauma.