bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Industry 4.0 in emerging markets: a bibliometric review of the managerial literature and research agenda
Authors: Tomás-Miquel José-Vicente , Maldonado-Gómez Gabriel , Capó Vicedo Jordi
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to systematically review the managerial literature on Industry 4.0 (I4.0) in emerging markets (EMs) through bibliometric analyses to identify incipient research streams and literature gaps and recommend avenues for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

This research uses bibliographic coupling analysis (BCA) to obtain a comprehensive view of the intellectual contours within the addressed literature. The primary source utilised is the Web of Science database. A total of 345 peer-reviewed journal articles were retrieved. Complementing BCA, we use social network analysis and the content analysis of articles to study the resulting literature clusters.

Findings

The results reveal four thematic clusters: (1) Adoption of I4.0 in EMs; (2) impact of I4.0 on organisational aspects and financial performance of companies and supply chains in EMs; (3) I4.0, lean management and operational performance in EMs and (4) I4.0 and the development of sustainable practices in EMs. We supplement these results with the proposal of different future avenues of research, both general and specific, for each identified cluster.

Research limitations/implications

The current study has certain limitations arising from using the bibliometric method and techniques employed in the analyses.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, there is no comprehensive literature review article on this subject. This research is deemed valuable for future scholars as it facilitates the identification of research fronts that define the forefront of knowledge, reveals current trends and sets the stage for further exploration of key issues in the field. This, in turn, can offer valuable insights to academics, policymakers and practitioners.
Digital technologies and Chinese digital firms’ green innovation
Authors: Liu Tianhao , Liu Junjie , Li Qianying , He Shuting
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to advance the understanding of digitalization–sustainability relationships in the digital age. Specifically, this study aims to test the link between Chinese digital firms’ adoption of digital technologies and green innovation. This study highlights the peculiarities of digital firms related to green innovation and how the adoption of digital technologies contributes to the sustainable development agenda.

Design/methodology/approach

This study empirically examines the impact of digital technologies on green innovation outcomes in publicly listed digital firms in China from 2010 to 2020. Using panel data from the China Stock Market and Accounting Research Database (CSMAR) and the Chinese Research Data Services Platform, the authors estimate regression models and find support for the hypotheses.

Findings

The authors find that the digitalization level of firms has a positive impact on corporate green innovation. In addition, this relationship is positively moderated by the level of internationalization in the firms. Moreover, the results of this study past the robustness and endogeneity checks.

Originality/value

This study provides novel insights into the green innovation of digital firms by analyzing the knowledge management capabilities of digital firms as well as the impact of the level of internationalization on knowledge acquisition and management (i.e. boundary conditions). Specifically, the findings of this study provide a new context to encourage study on green innovation. Moreover, this study enriches the literature on corporate digitalization and the factors influencing corporate green innovation.
Uptake of Industry 4.0 technologies in Australian construction firms
Authors: Perera C. Savindi Ranthika , Francis Valerie , Gao Shang
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Industry 4.0 in the construction industry (CI), also known as Construction 4.0, transforms construction projects into digital environments, integrating advanced technologies throughout each stage. This study investigated the application, maturity and adoption interest of 14 Industry 4.0-related technologies in the CI (Con4.0-tech) in Australian construction firms.

Design/methodology/approach

Using purposive and snowball sampling, data was collected via 19 semi-structured interviews with directors, managers, innovation officers, etc. Data was then content analysed using NVivo software.

Findings

The study revealed five key application areas for Con4.0-tech: real-time data capture, digital communication, data analysis, visualisation and off-site construction. While the level of technology use varied, the research suggests a clear shift towards technology-driven practices in Australian construction. An interesting finding is the direct correlation between technology maturity and its use. Construction firms demonstrated a stronger preference for established technologies with proven value. Notably, innovative firms actively explore new technologies, while others wait for broader industry adoption before integrating them.

Originality/value

This research uniquely explores the adoption of Con4.0-tech within Australian construction firms, providing a novel perspective on current industry practices. The empirical evidence offers valuable implications for driving technological advancement and enhancing construction project delivery.
Identifying critical factors that affected construction project performance during COVID-19
Authors: Pamidimukkala Apurva , Kermanshachi Sharareh , Adepu Nikhitha
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Construction projects were significantly and negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, and many researchers have examined the factors that affected the performance and resilience of construction projects during that critical and unusual time. Unlike this study, however, these studies were broad in their approach and provided general overviews of the unique problems caused by the virus. This study is more specific in its approach, as it both identifies the critical elements of the compromised performance and resilience of construction during this time and explores the interplay between them.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was developed to gather information about why the resilience and performance of construction projects were so negatively impacted by COVID-19. Three types of analysis were employed to examine the 131 responses received: robust relative importance index (RII), agreement and correlation.

Findings

The RII analysis revealed that the main contributing factor was the unavailability of materials. The agreement analysis highlighted the relative unimportance of the scale and type of the organization, and the correlation analysis divulged strong relationships between some of the factors, such as skilled labor deficits and diminished labor efficiency, logistical constraints and availability of materials.

Originality/value

The insights provided by this study will equip construction industry stakeholders, policymakers and researchers with valuable guidelines for making decisions and maintaining resilience amid disruptions. It will also provide a framework for future studies and interventions aimed at fortifying the construction industry against similar crises.
Do robots impact artificial intelligence (AI)-related employment? Evidence from a cross-national study
Authors: Das Khanindra Ch. , Rani Neelam , Bodhi Rahul , Yaqub Muhammad Zafar
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics helps firms achieve seamless production, distribution and service delivery. This study uses a sample of developed and developing countries to examine the impact of robots on AI-related employment.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study underlies cross-country evidence using a sample of 28 countries between 2016 and 2022. The source data are captured from the Artificial Intelligence Index Report, Statista, World Intellectual Property Organization, World Development Indicators and World Governance Indicators. We employed panel data techniques for analysis purposes.

Findings

This study unravels the impact of robot use on AI employment in developed and emerging economies. The dynamic panel threshold regression models support the contention that the effects of robots on AI employment are more complex than they are made to be. The impact varies below and above the threshold of country-specific variables such as internet penetration, innovation parameters, gross domestic product (GDP) per capita and labor force quality.

Originality/value

This study offers new perspectives on robot and AI-related employment by utilizing a sample of developed and developing countries. It considers the inclusion of country-specific variables. The study provided insights into the economic value creation by labor that would be shaped by the threshold of technological infrastructure, economic conditions and governance standards of countries, thereby contributing to the employment relations literature.
Being healthy and achieving life harmony: the role of hybrid work and the mediating effect of work–family[with pets] conflict
Authors: Junça Silva Ana
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The recent workplace dynamics era allowed many organizations to adopt the hybrid working model. However, despite the growing relevance of telework for diverse outcomes, few studies have explored hybrid work. Therefore, this research was based on the role theory and the job demands-resources model to develop a conceptual model arguing that hybrid work may potentially influence employees’ life harmony and mental health through decreases in work–family conflict. Moreover, answering the call for more studies on the role of families with pets regarding work-life boundaries, it is also proposed that hybrid work may potentially influence employees’ harmony and mental health through decreases in work–[pet]family conflict.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve this objective, two studies were conducted. The first was a two-wave study carried out in 2023, involving 376 hybrid workers who completed two online surveys. The second study, also two-wave, was conducted in 2024 and included 479 working adults who participated in the research through online data collection.

Findings

The findings of the first study showed that individuals working in a hybrid model tended to experience less work–family conflict, consequently increasing their harmony and mental health. The second study also evidenced that those working in a hybrid modality had higher levels of harmony in life and mental health due to decreases in their work–[pet]family conflict.

Originality/value

The results highlight the importance of this working modality for employees’ mental health and well-being. Plus, it also opens future venues for research regarding work–[pet]family conflict, as it appears to be a relevant construct for modern families and younger generations of working adults.
Robust exponential visual regulation of wheeled mobile robots based on active disturbance rejection control
Authors: Huang Yao , Zhang Lidong , Chu Zhenzhong
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to propose an active disturbance rejection control (ADRC)-based visual servoing strategy for regulating a wheeled mobile robot from varying initial poses to a desired pose at an exponential rate. It addresses challenges associated with non-holonomic constraints, uncertain depth information and unknown translational parameters in monocular vision systems.

Design/methodology/approach

The uncertain depth information in monocular vision and unknown camera-to-robot translational parameters are modeled as internal uncertainties of the visual servo system. An input-state scaling technique is used to decouple the system into two subsystems, controlled by angular and linear velocities, respectively. The angular velocity controller is designed to ensure strict exponential convergence, while the internal parametric and bounded uncertainties of the system are estimated and compensated for by an extended state observer and a switching linear velocity controller.

Findings

The separate design of the angular and linear velocity controllers effectively overcomes the non-holonomic constraints of the mobile robot, ensuring robust performance under diverse conditions. Furthermore, the ADRC-based strategy successfully handles uncertain depth information and unknown translational parameters. The convergence of the error system is rigorously proven using Lyapunov theory, and simulation results verify the effectiveness of the proposed scheme.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study introduces, for the first time, a novel approach that combines ADRC with visual servoing for non-holonomic mobile robots. This approach enhances the adaptability and accuracy of the robot’s navigation in environments characterized by unknown system uncertainties. The proposed method demonstrates enhanced practical performance over conventional techniques by effectively managing the inherent uncertainties of the system.
Organizing for good: cooperatives striving for equity, justice, and ecological well-being
Authors: Ergene Erim , Ergene Seray
Published: February 2025

Purpose

A growing body of management research is investigating how organizations can provide solutions to major social and ecological issues. Scholars suggested alternative organizations, in particular those that prioritize community and democratic decision-making, as more effective in engaging with societal challenges. The purpose of this paper is to explore cooperatives and their capacity in addressing them.

Design/methodology/approach

By engaging with the United Nations’ resources and the grand challenges literature in management, the authors first identified the core issues underlying each sustainable development goal. Next, the authors looked for empirical research on cooperatives that engage with those specific social and ecological issues. The authors articulated patterns as to how cooperatives address them and grouped them under five themes. The authors also articulated struggles where cooperatives fall short in fully addressing the issues at hand.

Findings

Based on the analysis, the authors identified five fundamental ways that cooperatives commit to and facilitate addressing challenges: providing economic gains for the many; facilitating access to essential resources; focusing on long-term community well-being; prioritizing ecological well-being; and promoting cooperation and partnership for justice. While most research on cooperatives illustrates these capacities, the authors also noted other studies that show struggles in various areas, most importantly in reducing inequalities.

Originality/value

While there is growing research on grand challenges, the literature has not paid attention to cooperatives and their capacity in tackling them. This paper comprehensively engages with four types of cooperatives and articulates how they facilitate addressing social and ecological issues. The findings contribute to organization design and grand challenges literatures as well as offer implications for broader management research.
AI and hotel employees' coexistence: a helpful tool or a threat to job loss?
Authors: Pericleous Katerina , Liasidou Sotiroula , Dyankov Todor
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The aim of the study is to understand employees’ feelings towards artificial intelligence (AI) in relation to their job performance and productivity, as well as their opinion of the risk of being displaced by AI.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed a self-administered questionnaire targeting hotel employees. The results were analysed through exploratory factor analysis to validate constructs and test hypotheses.

Findings

In particular, the results of the study indicate employees’ insecurity of job losses when it comes to incorporating AI applications into operational processes. However, it is crucial for employees to understand that embracing AI can boost job productivity, thereby enhancing employee and guest satisfaction.

Originality/value

This study is original because it examines a new topic, concerning AI in hotels and evaluates how hotel employees perceive it in relation to their job security.
Plant species loss reduces rare soil microbes through diversity effects amplified by multitrophic interactions
Authors: Li Jie , Wei Yanan , Lv Ruixue , Liu Weixing , Niu Kechang
Published: February 2025

Evidence is mounting that plant diversity loss erodes ecosystem function by altering biochemical processes regulated by diverse organisms both above‐ground and below‐ground. However, we know little about how loss of plant diversity influences soil biodiversity, especially whether loss of ecologically rare and/or functionally distinctive plants leads to reduction in rare soil microbes associated with soil multifunctionality.

In species‐rich alpine meadow communities on the Tibetan Plateau, we conducted a 12‐year plant species removal experiment to reveal the effects on soil biodiversity of losing many ecologically rare and functionally distinctive forbs versus the loss of the few dominant sedges and several common species.

We found that the removal of rare forbs, rather than dominant species and common plants, significantly decreased the richness of soil bacteria and fungi by decreasing rare microbial taxa in later years. This decline in the richness of rare microbial taxa was attributable not only to the decreased plant species richness but also to the increased abundance of fungivorous and omnivorous nematodes.

Synthesis. The study revealed that the loss of rare plants induces the loss of rare soil microbes through plant diversity effects amplified by below‐ground multitrophic interactions. Loss of rare soil microbes triggers larger shifts in the microbial community that alter soil biodiversity, food web structure and community functioning.
Regenerative Agriculture and Climate Protection – High Expectations, Low Delivery
Authors: Zimmer Yelto , Lammel Joachim , Theuvsen Ludwig , Ward Barry
Published: February 2025

Regenerative agriculture has gained attention for its potential to mitigate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from crop production and improve farm profitability through practices like cover cropping and reduced tillage. However, empirical data suggest that the carbon storage potential and economic benefits of these methods are often overstated. Research shows that the capacity of these practices to sequester carbon is limited. Furthermore, under challenging climatic conditions, these techniques can even reduce crop yields.

The paper demonstrates that economic benefits are often based on assumptions that do not account for challenges, such as the limited feasibility of cover crops in certain cropping systems and exaggerated savings from reduced inputs. Moreover, the potential for ‘leakage’ – where lower yields lead to land conversion and emissions elsewhere – raises further concerns about the effectiveness of the concept.

A more promising approach lies in improving nitrogen‐use efficiency, which addresses the major source of GHG emissions from crop production while reducing input costs and improving productivity. Unlike regenerative practices that often depend on subsidies, improving nitrogen use efficiency offers stable, measurable results without yield penalties or the need for continuous financial compensation of growers. This ensures long‐term sustainability and climate benefits, making it a more promising strategy.
Sperm Transfer Under Behavioral and Morphological Constraints in the Orb‐Web Spider Genus Argiope
Authors: Dharmarathne Chathuranga , McLean Donald J. , Michalik Peter , Herberstein M. E.
Published: February 2025

Sperm transfer constraints are common phenomena in spider mating systems, influenced by both behavioral and morphological factors. Non‐motile, encapsulated sperm cells must navigate through narrow male and female ducts during short (only seconds) copulations, all while under the pressure of female aggression, which can include sexual cannibalism and genital damage. However, little attention has been paid to the impact of male and female internal genital morphology on sperm transfer. In this study, we quantify the number of sperm transferred by males in five species of the genus Argiope as a direct measure of reproductive success. We explore sperm transfer in relation to copulation duration, sperm availability, sexual dimorphism, and female aggression. Additionally, we compare intra‐ and interspecific variation in sperm transfer by examining internal male and female genital morphological traits. Finally, we discuss the allometry of internal genital morphology in terms of sperm transfer in spiders. Our findings indicate that the occurrence of sexual cannibalism is the significant factor impacting sperm transfer in the genus Argiope. We observed a positive, albeit non‐significant, correlation between sperm duct width and sperm transfer. Nonetheless, interspecific variability in allometry and methodological challenges underscore the need for continued research to fully understand the complexities of internal genital evolution in spiders.
Non‐Streptomyces endophytic actinomycetes from Bromus auleticus as a potential biocontrol tool for biotic stress alleviation and plant growth promotion
Authors: Mónica Ivana Florencia Della , Querejeta Giselle , Iannone Leopoldo J. , Novas M. Victoria , Scervino J. Martin
Published: February 2025

Plant pathogens can cause significant losses in plant production. To address this issue, it is crucial to develop innovative technologies that promote sustainability in production. One potential solution is the use of plant growth‐promoting microorganisms, particularly those with biocontrol properties. In this study, root‐endophytic actinomycetes isolated from Bromus auleticus, a South American forage grass, were investigated. Their ability to promote plant growth and their biocontrol activity against fungal phytopathogens were analysed. The actinomycetes were characterised molecularly, morphologically, and physiologically. Their ability to solubilise P, fixate N2, produce phytohormones, nitrate, siderophores, phenazines and lytic enzymes was assessed. Both in vitro dual‐antagonistic and in vivo biocontrol assays were performed. The strains were identified as species of the Micromonospora and Microbispora genus. They were able to produce auxins, solubilise phosphorus and release lytic enzymes, and nitrate. In vitro, both species of Micromonospora aff. halotolerans reduced the growth of fungal phytopathogens by 12%–34%. In particular, the strain Micromonospora aff. halotolerans TWB21 was found to reduce the pre‐emergence effects of Fusarium oxysporum growth when the actinomycete was inoculated by seed immersion. Moreover, this strain improved the seed emergence, plant establishment and plant growth parameters under biotic stress. These results remark the importance of endophytic actinomycetes with biocontrol and plant growth‐promoting abilities in enhancing their host establishment and biomass production. This reinforces the idea that Micromonospora strains could be applied as biocontrol agents on grasses with agronomic interest.
Activated mTOR Signaling in the RPE Drives EMT, Autophagy, and Metabolic Disruption, Resulting in AMD‐Like Pathology in Mice
Authors: Chowdhury Olivia , Bammidi Sridhar , Gautam Pooja , Babu Vishnu Suresh , Liu Haitao , Shang Peng , Xin Ying , Mahally Emma , Nemani Mihir , Koontz Victoria , Lathrop Kira , Kedziora Katarzyna M. , Franks Jonathan , Sun Ming , Smith Joshua W. , DeVine Lauren R. , Cole Robert N. , Stepicheva Nadezda , Strizhakova Anastasia , Chattopadhyay Sreya , Hose Stacey , Zigler Jacob Samuel , Sahel José‐Alain , Qian Jiang , Guha Prasun , Handa James T. , Ghosh Sayan , Sinha Debasish
Published: February 2025

The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) complexes 1 and 2 (mTORC1/2) are crucial for various physiological functions. Although the role of mTORC1 in retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE) homeostasis and age–related macular degeneration (AMD) pathogenesis is established, the function of mTORC2 remains unclear. We investigated both complexes in RPE health and disease. Therefore, in this study, we have attempted to demonstrate that the specific overexpression of mammalian lethal with Sec13 protein 8 (mLST8) in the mouse RPE activates both mTORC1 and mTORC2, inducing epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT)‐like changes and subretinal/RPE deposits resembling early AMD‐like pathogenesis. Aging in these mice leads to RPE degeneration, causing retinal damage, impaired debris clearance, and metabolic and mitochondrial dysfunction. Inhibition of mTOR with TORIN1 in vitro or βA3/A1‐crystallin in vivo normalized mTORC1/2 activity and restored function, revealing a novel role for the mTOR complexes in regulating RPE function, impacting retinal health and disease.
Causes of and risk factors for unplanned readmission in a large cohort of patients undergoing major surgery: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Evans Kirstie , Makar Tim , Larsen Tom , Banerjee Rudranil , Tran Hai , Miles Lachlan F.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Unplanned hospital readmissions after surgery are substantial drivers of expenditure and bed occupancy within the healthcare system. As a result, any targeted interventions that reduce readmission in this population can have a significant impact on patient well‐being and the health budget.

Methods

We performed a large retrospective cohort study analysing data from patients from our institution who underwent major surgery between 1 May 2011 and 1 February 2022. We aimed primarily to study the epidemiology of patients who were readmitted within 90 days of discharge following an index procedure, as well as the reason(s) and risk factors for readmission. These complex, non‐linear relationships were modelled with restricted cubic splines.

Results

We identified 22,143 patients undergoing major surgery within the defined study period, of whom 1801 (12%) had an unplanned readmission. The most common reason for unplanned readmission across the entire cohort was wound complication, which was the primary cause identified in 232 (11%) readmissions. Ileus or small bowel obstruction was the primary cause of readmission identified following abdominal surgery, compared with pneumonia following thoracic surgery, mechanical injury following orthopaedic surgery and wound complication following cardiac surgery. A discharge haemoglobin concentration of < 100 g.l‐1 (p < 0.001), duration of hospital stay of 14–30 days (p < 0.001) and Charlson comorbidity index score ≥ 2 (p < 0.001) were associated with increased odds of unplanned readmission. No association was found with patient age or duration of surgery.

Discussion

Our study identified the causes of readmission after major surgery from a range of surgical specialties. An improved understanding of the causes of and risk factors for unplanned readmissions will enable the development of targeted interventions that can minimise the burden of unplanned readmissions after major surgery on patients and the larger healthcare system.
Genomic investigations of successful invasions: the picture emerging from recent studies
Authors: Kołodziejczyk Joanna , Fijarczyk Anna , Porth Ilga , Robakowski Piotr , Vella Noel , Vella Adriana , Kloch Agnieszka , Biedrzycka Aleksandra
Published: February 2025

Invasion biology aims to identify traits and mechanisms that contribute to successful invasions, while also providing general insights into the mechanisms underlying population expansion and adaptation to rapid climate and habitat changes. Certain phenotypic attributes have been linked to successful invasions, and the role of genetics has been critical in understanding adaptation of invasive species. Nevertheless, a comprehensive summary evaluating the most common evolutionary mechanisms associated with successful invasions across species and environments is still lacking. Here we present a systematic review of studies since 2015 that have applied genomic tools to investigate mechanisms of successful invasions across different organisms. We examine demographic patterns such as changes in genomic diversity at the population level, the presence of genetic bottlenecks and gene flow in the invasive range. We review mechanisms of adaptation such as selection from standing genetic variation and de novo mutations, hybridisation and introgression, all of which can have an impact on invasion success. This comprehensive review of recent articles on the genomic diversity of invasive species led to the creation of a searchable database to provide researchers with an accessible resource. Analysis of this database allowed quantitative assessment of demographic and adaptive mechanisms acting in invasive species. A predominant role of admixture in increasing levels of genetic diversity enabling molecular adaptation in novel habitats is the most important finding of our study. The “genetic paradox” of invasive species was not validated in genomic data across species and ecosystems. Even though the presence of genetic drift and bottlenecks is commonly reported upon invasion, a large reduction in genomic diversity is rarely observed. Any decrease in genetic diversity is often relatively mild and almost always restored via gene flow between different invasive populations. The fact that loci under selection are frequently detected suggests that adaptation to novel habitats on a molecular level is not hindered. The above findings are confirmed herein for the first time in a semi‐quantitative manner by molecular data. We also point to gaps and potential improvements in the design of studies of mechanisms driving rapid molecular adaptation in invasive populations. These include the scarcity of comprehensive studies that include sampling from multiple native and invasive populations, identification of invasion sources, longitudinal population sampling, and the integration of fitness measures into genomic analyses. We also note that the potential of whole genome studies is often not exploited fully in predicting invasive potential. Comparative genomic studies identifying genome features promoting invasions are underrepresented despite their potential for use as a tool in invasive species control.
Safety, Pharmacokinetics and Target Engagement of a Novel Brain Penetrant RIPK1 Inhibitor (SIR9900) in Healthy Adults and Elderly Participants
Authors: Gonen Ofer Michael , Porter Tim , Wang Buwei , Xue Fenchao , Ma Yongfen , Song Linan , Sun Pei , Fan Weiliang , Shen Yang
Published: February 2025

Receptor‐interacting serine/threonine kinase 1 (RIPK1) regulates inflammatory signaling and induces apoptosis and necroptosis. Pharmacological inhibition of RIPK1 kinase activity has demonstrated efficacy in animal models of neurodegenerative, autoimmune and inflammatory diseases. SIR9900 is a potent and selective novel small molecule RIPK1 inhibitor. This first‐in‐human, phase I, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study evaluated the safety, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of single (3–200 mg) and multiple (3–60 mg daily for 10 days) ascending oral doses of SIR9900 in healthy adult (18–64 years, n = 80) and elderly participants (≥ 65 years, multiple doses 30 mg, n = 8). The study included a food effect component. Overall, SIR9900 was safe and well tolerated with no concerning dose‐dependent trends in safety observed. SIR9900 was rapidly absorbed with a plasma maximum concentration time (Tmax) of 3.0–4.0 h and plasma half‐life (t1/2) of 31.92–37.75 h following single doses. Similar Tmax and t1/2 results were observed following multiple doses. Systemic exposure to SIR9900 increased in a dose‐proportional manner and was similar between adult and elderly participants. No appreciable food effect was observed. The cerebrospinal fluid to unbound plasma ratio was 1.15. A robust pharmacodynamic effect was demonstrated with approximately 90% peripheral target engagement at 3 h post‐dose, and sustained RIPK1 inhibition over the 10‐day treatment period. The promising safety, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic profile of SIR9900 with central nervous system penetrating potential in healthy adult and elderly participants supports its further clinical development in patients with inflammatory and degenerative diseases, particularly in the central nervous system.
Perceptions of Educational Community Members: Deployment of a University Health Promotion Policy
Authors: Castillo‐Rosales Mónica , Araya‐Piñones Angelo , Brito Irma , Brunherotti Marisa Afonso de Andrade , Alfaro‐Navarro Verónica , Van Niekerk Bakit Nicolas
Published: February 2025

Universities have been the focus of numerous studies on health promotion initiatives, mainly centred on results that determine outcomes and impacts. This study explores the perceptions of various community members regarding implementing the university health promotion policy. We employed qualitative methods (case study); semi‐structured in‐depth interviews were conducted at a Chilean university to gather data based on both inductive and deductive analyses. A comprehensive schema of students', professors' and administrative/technical staff's perceptions was established. We found a generally positive assessment of the policy and its promotion of healthy lifestyle environments. However, participation within the university community was uneven, with each group identifying different barriers to increased involvement: high academic workloads (students), research and administrative responsibilities (professors), and limited availability of health and wellness‐promoting activities (administrative/technical staff). The findings suggest that future educational health initiatives should incorporate health indicators into management practices, enhance wellness literacy and empower community members to foster greater engagement. From a methodology perspective, study design enables the replication of health policy or program deployment in educational community health settings.
The joys and jitters of high‐temperature calorimetry
Authors: Scharrer Manuel , Bonatti Laura , Geraci Tullio , Ushakov Sergey V. , Majzlan Juraj , Bustamante Michael , Kojitani Hiroshi , Guo Xiaofeng , Xu Hongwu , Zhang Lei , Lilova Kristina , Hayun Shmuel , Subramani Tamilarasan , Navrotsky Alexandra
Published: February 2025

High‐temperature calorimetry (HTC) originated in the 20th century as a niche method to enable measurements not easily accomplished with acid solution calorimetry, combustion calorimetry, vapor pressure, or EMF methods. Over time, HTC has evolved into a versatile approach to accurately quantify formation, phase transition, surface and interfacial enthalpies of a wide range of materials including minerals and refractory inorganic compounds. This evolution has been the result of numerous adjustments to experimental setups and procedures, followed by rigorous testing. The commercial availability and the scientific success of this technique have led to an increase in the number of laboratories applying HTC. However, the knowledge acquired by researchers over the past 70 years is scattered throughout the literature or only available as laboratory internal documentation and personal experience. This publication is a collaborative effort among several leading HTC laboratories to summarize and unify current state‐of‐the‐art HTC techniques and procedures. The text starts by summarizing various HT techniques that are commonly used for readers with an interest in HTC in general. It is then directed toward HTC users and includes a brief section on data evaluation procedures as well as a comprehensive compilation of reference data utilizing molten sodium molybdate and lead borate solvents. Finally, for experienced HTC users, an in‐depth discussion of some common difficulties and a discussion of uncertainties are presented.
Factors Influencing Nurses' Culturally Competent Cancer Care for LGBT Individuals in Taiwan: A Qualitative Study Applying the Socio‐Ecological Model
Authors: Wang Ya‐Ching , Miao Nae‐Fang , You Mei‐Hui , Wang Frank T. Y. , Hsu Chih‐Yun
Published: February 2025

Aims

This study explored the factors associated with oncology nurses' behaviour and intention to provide cancer care to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals in Taiwan.

Design

A qualitative descriptive study.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 25 oncology nurses between August and October 2023. The interview data were analysed using the framework method (the socio‐ecological model) and constant comparative techniques.

Results

Factors associated with oncology nurses' behaviour and intentions to provide cancer care for LGBT individuals were categorised and presented by the levels of the social‐ecological model: (1) intrapersonal level: oncology nurses' attitudes toward LGBT populations and their experiences, confidence, and beliefs in providing cancer care for LGBT individuals; (2) interpersonal level: concerns or interactions with oncology nurses' colleagues, other heterosexual cancer patients, and managers; (3) community and organisation levels: organisational climate and related training courses; and (4) societal and policy level: policy regarding sexual orientation, gender identity collection, and social atmosphere.

Conclusion

Multilevel barriers associated with oncology nurses' behaviours and intentions to provide cancer care to LGBT individuals were identified. The study findings emphasised the importance of related training courses offered by organisations to reduce cancer care disparities among LGBT individuals. These courses also aim to enhance oncology nurses' confidence and comfort in delivering holistic and patient‐centred cancer care for this population.

Impact

The study findings can be employed to assist in developing related training courses and understand the challenges oncology nurses face when providing cancer care to LGBT individuals.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contributions.
Comparison of Cardiovascular Outcomes Between Chlorthalidone and Hydrochlorothiazide in Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Lim Subin , Kim Ju Hyeon , Oh Seungmi , Hong Soon Jun , Yu Cheol Woong , Joo Hyung Joon , Kim Yong Hyun , Kim Eung Ju
Published: February 2025

Chlorthalidone (CLTD) and hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) are widely used thiazide diuretics for hypertension management. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the cardiovascular outcomes of patients treated with CLTD versus HCTZ. This multicenter, retrospective cohort study utilized data from the Korea University Medical Center, derived from electronic health records. A total of 14 257 hypertensive patients treated with either CLTD (n = 1920) or HCTZ (n = 12 337) were identified. Patients were matched 1:1 using propensity scores, resulting in 1606 patients in each treatment group. Demographic and clinical characteristics, incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), and safety profiles were analyzed. Baseline characteristics after propensity score matching were well balanced between the two groups. The average age was 61.8 ± 14.6 years for CLTD users, with 59.3% being male. The 3‐year MACE occurred in 1.2% of the CLTD group compared with 1.4% of the HCTZ group (hazard ratio 0.91, p = 0.77). For secondary outcomes, cardiovascular mortality was 0.2% in both groups (p = 0.92). Myocardial infarction occurred in 0.3% of CLTD users and 0.4% of HCTZ users (p = 0.65). The incidence of hypokalemia was 19.2% in the CLTD group versus 16.7% in the HCTZ group (p = 0.07). In conclusion, in hypertensive patients, CLTD and HCTZ showed comparable cardiovascular outcomes and safety profiles.
Cardiac Baroreflex Is Preserved After the Recovery From COVID‐19 Men and Women
Authors: Souza Roberto , Divino Beatriz , Rocha Helena N. M. , Lugon Jocemir R. , Rocha Natalia G. , Nobrega Antonio C. L. , Prodel Eliza
Published: February 2025

We sought to investigate whether mild COVID‐19 impairs cardiac baroreflex sensitivity (cBRS), using the modified Oxford protocol, in young healthy men and women 12–14 weeks after recovering from the infection. Participants were distributed into two groups: Non‐COVID‐19 group (NCG: men n = 6 [30 ± 3years; 26 ± 1 kg/m2] and women n = 5 [25 ± 1 years; 25 ± 1 kg/m2]) and recovered from COVID‐19 group (RCG: men n = 6 [29 ± 3 years; 25 ± 1 kg/m2] and women n = 10 [32 ± 4 years; 22 ± 1 kg/m2]), the RCG tested positive (RT‐PCR) 12 to 14 weeks before the protocol. Beat‐to‐beat finger blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR) were measured during a bolus of sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and phenylephrine (PHE), in a control condition and during cold pressor test (CPT) and moderate dynamic handgrip exercise (GRIP). Resting systolic BP was higher in the RCG (135 ± 14 mmHg vs. 122 ± 12 mmHg, p = 0.01). Both CPT and GRIP maneuvers increased HR and BP; the bolus of SNP diminished BP and evoked a reflex‐mediated increase in HR; PHE increased BP, resulting in a reflex‐mediated decrease in HR. Of note, cBRS for decrease or increase of BP did not differ between groups under the studied conditions: control (SNP, p = 0.39; PHE, p = 0.50); CPT (SNP, p = 0.09; PHE: p = 0.82); and GRIP (SNP, p = 0.35; PHE, p = 0.53). In conclusion, mild COVID‐19 did not seem to impair cBRS in healthy young men and women 12–14 weeks after recovering from the infection.
Single‐cell genomics meets systems neuroscience: Insights from mapping the brain circuitry of stress
Authors: Hanchate Naresh K.
Published: February 2025

Responses to external and internal dangers is essential for survival and homeostatic regulation. Hypothalamic corticotropin‐releasing hormone neurons (CRHNs) play a pivotal role in regulating neuroendocrine responses to fear and stress. In recent years, the application of neurogenetic tools, such as fiber photometry, chemogenetics and optogenetics, have provided new insights into the dynamic neuronal responses of CRHNs during stressful events, offering new perspectives into their functional significance in mediating neurobehavioural responses to stress. Transsynaptic viral tracers have facilitated the comprehensive mapping of neuronal inputs to CRHNs. Furthermore, the development and application of innovative single‐cell genomic tools combined with viral tracing have begun to pave the way for a deeper understanding of the transcriptional profiles of neural circuit components, enabling molecular‐anatomical circuit mapping. Here, I will discuss how these systems neuroscience approaches and novel single‐cell genomic methods are advancing the molecular and functional mapping of stress neurocircuits, their associated challenges and future directions.
Amyloid‐β and Bacterial Lipopolysaccharide at Implants With Peri‐Implantitis: Ex Vivo Colocalization and Decontamination Protocol
Authors: Toledano‐Osorio Manuel , Cifuentes‐Jiménez Carolina , Toledano Manuel , Sanz Mariano , Raquel Osorio
Published: February 2025

Aim

To study the differential presence of amyloid‐β and bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in freshly extracted titanium implants, either affected by peri‐implantitis (PI) or explanted by other causes, and to address a method for removal LPS and amyloid‐β from contaminated surfaces.

Methods

Twenty‐four explanted implants were harvested from patients with (n = 12) or without (n = 12) peri‐implantitis, and their surfaces were analyzed by attenuated total reflectance (ATR) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to localize amyloid‐β and LPS. Presence of amyloid‐β on the implants surfaces was further analyzed by light microscopy after specific amyloid staining with Congo red. Titanium discs were contaminated with LPS and amyloid‐β, these discs as well as six contaminated implants were treated with 0.25% NaOCl to assess its decontamination ability.

Results

LPS and amyloid‐β were observed at PI affected implant surfaces, but not in implants extracted by other causes. 0.25% NaOCl application was an efficient method for removing LPS and amyloid‐β from titanium surfaces.

Conclusions

The concurrent presence of LPS and amyloid‐β on the surface of implants affected by PI was demonstrated and it may act as potential comediators of PI inflammatory process. Eliminating these products from implants surfaces is possible after a proteolytic agent (0.25% NaOCl) application.
Aberrant Resting‐State Effective Connectivity Between the Insula and Other Regions of the Whole Brain in Children With Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Ji Tingting , Li Xiaodan , Xu Zhifei , Zhao Jing , Wang Guixiang , Li Yanzhen , Zhang Xuexi , Liu Qiaoyin , Sun Nian , Mei Lin , Wang Shengcai , Ni Xin
Published: February 2025

To investigate the effective connectivity between the bilateral insulae and other regions of the whole brain in children with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and to reveal the relationships between these abnormal connections and cognitive dysfunction in this condition. Resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs‐fMRI) data and clinical variables were collected from 55 children with OSA [5.0 (5.0, 8.0) years, 32 males, 28 pre‐school children] and 25 healthy controls [6.0 (5.0, 9.0) years, 11 males, 9 pre‐school children], matched for age, gender, and education. Rs‐fMRI data were analysed to investigative group‐difference in the effective connectivity between the bilateral insulae and other regions of the brain of children with OSA with those of controls. Spearman correlation analysis was conducted between these abnormal connections and clinical variables among children with OSA. Compared with controls, children with OSA showed abnormal clinical variables (i.e., increased OAHI, AHI, OAI, HI, ODI, time of SpO2 < 90%, total AI, and respiratory‐related AI, while decreased minimal SpO2, FIQ, VIQ, and PIQ). Additionally, significant alterations were observed in the effective connectivity between the bilateral insulae and other regions of brain, such as frontal, parietal, occipital, and cerebellum and so forth. Furthermore, the mean values of the effective connectivity in children with OSA were significantly correlated with several sleep‐related and neurocognitive parameters. There exist abnormal causal interactions between the bilateral insulae and other regions throughout the brain in OSA children, accompanied by impaired cognitive function, suggesting that the former may be a potential neural mechanism underlying the latter.
Mixed Parentage Broods Indicate Group Spawning in the Brood Parasitic Cuckoo Catfish
Authors: Zimmermann Holger , Sefc Kristina M. , Blažek Radim , Bartáková Veronika , Bryjová Anna , Katongo Cyprian , Koblmüller Stephan , Reichard Martin
Published: February 2025

Obligate brood parasites delegate the workload of costly parental care to their hosts. Theory predicts that release from demanding parental care increases the importance of other factors to shape mating patterns. However, behavioural observations and parentage estimates are notoriously difficult to obtain in species with covert reproductive strategies, such as brood parasites, and evidence for their mating strategies are scarce. Molecular genetic methods provide a powerful tool to identify concealed mating patterns. Here, we reconstruct the parentage of cuckoo catfish (Synodontis multipunctatus) clutches collected in the wild using a combination of newly developed microsatellite markers, mitochondrial markers, and maximum likelihood estimates of pairwise relatedness. Cuckoo catfish parasitise mouthbrooding cichlids in Lake Tanganyika, but a natural spawning of the brood parasite has never been observed. We examined 429 females of confirmed host cichlid species (parasitism prevalence 6%; 24 parasitised clutches with 1–14 embryos) and found that 46% of clutches with three or more offspring (i.e., 6 out of 13) were parented by more than two catfish individuals. We demonstrated variable mating patterns including polyandrous and polygynous mating, and host sharing by separate, genetically monogamous, catfish pairs. This indicates that cuckoo catfish parasitism involves groups of catfish with reduced capability to monopolise mating opportunities. In general, our results demonstrate how reproductive strategy and mating patterns in a species with concealed breeding behaviour can be investigated and provide valuable insights into the mating system of a brood parasitic species other than hitherto studied avian brood parasites.