bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crystal structure of the tetraethylammonium salt of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug nimesulide (polymorph II)
Authors: Rybczyńska Małgorzata , Sikorski Artur
Published: February 2024

The crystal structure of the tetraethylammonium salt of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug nimesulide (polymorph II) (systematic name: tetraethylammonium N-methanesulfonyl-4-nitro-2-phenoxyanilinide), C8H20N+·C13H11N2O5S−, was determined using single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The title compound crystallizes in the monoclinic space group P21/c with one tetraethylammonium cation and one nimesulide anion in the asymmetric unit. In the crystal, the ions are linked by C—H...N and C—H...O hydrogen bonds and C—H...π interactions. There are differences in the geometry of both the nimesulide anion and the tetraethylammonium cation in polymorphs I [Rybczyńska & Sikorski (2023). Sci. Rep.
13, 17268] and II of the title compound.
Synthesis, characterization, and crystal structure of 2-(2-azidophenyl)-3-oxo-3H-indole 1-oxide
Authors: Dhote Pawan , Tothadi Srinu , Ramana Chepuri V.
Published: February 2024

An attempt to explore the reactivity of the nitro group in the presence of gold catalysis in comparison to the azide group yielded intriguing results. Surprisingly, only the nitro group exhibited reactivity, ultimately giving rise to the formation of the title isatogen, C14H8N4O2. In the crystal structure, weak C—H...O hydrogen bonds and π–π stacking interactions link the molecules. The structure exhibits disorder of the molecule.
Synergistic effect of oxide nanoparticles and inorganic inhibitor on anti-corrosion performance of epoxy coating
Authors: Nguyen Thien Vuong , Do Truc Vy , Nguyen Tuan Anh , Tran Dai Lam
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the synergistic effect of oxide nanoparticles (ZnO, Fe2O3, SiO2) and cerium nitrate inhibitor on anti-corrosion performance of epoxy coating. First, cerium nitrate inhibitors are absorbed on the surface of various oxide nanoparticles. Thereafter, epoxy nanocomposite coatings have been fabricated on carbon steel substrate using these oxide@Ce nanoparticles as both nano-fillers and nano-inhibitors.

Design/methodology/approach

To evaluate the impact of oxides@Ce nanoparticles on mechanical properties of epoxy coating, the abrasion resistance and impact resistance of epoxy coatings have been examined. To study the impact of oxides@Ce nanoparticles on anti-corrosion performance of epoxy coating for steel, the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy has been carried out in 3% NaCl solution.

Findings

ZnO@Ce3+ and SiO2@Ce3+ nanoparticles provide more enhancement in the epoxy pore network than modification of the epoxy/steel interface. Whereas, Fe2O3@Ce3+ nanoparticles have more to do with modification of the epoxy/steel interface than to change the epoxy pore network.

Originality/value

Incorporation of both oxide nanoparticles and inorganic inhibitor into the epoxy resin is a promising approach for enhancing the anti-corrosion performance of carbon steel.
From clicks to cravings: exploring consumer perceptions of online fast food purchasing
Authors: Vyas Abhay M. , Kushwaha Gyaneshwar Singh
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study explores consumers' perceptions of purchasing fast food items through online platforms. The central idea of this research is to practically assess the various elements impacting the consumers’ perceptions of online purchasing of fast food items and find out the factors with high importance and performance value.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative research approach was used to collect data from 402 participants in the form of a pen-and-paper-based method using a 5-point Likert scale. The collected data were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM) and importance-performance analysis. Theory of planned behavior and technology acceptance model form the basis for this research.

Findings

The findings indicate that constructs such as convenience, perceived quality and perceived healthiness positively influence consumers' perceptions of online purchasing of fast food items. On the other hand, competitive prices, discounts and promotions (CPDP) and online shopping experience have no significant impact on perceived value for money.

Research limitations/implications

A constraint of this study is that it was done in a particular geographical location, which restricts the generalizations of the findings. The study only examined consumers' perceptions of online fast food purchasing, and future research could explore consumers' actual behaviors toward personalized fast food recommendations by online sellers.

Originality/value

The research supports and extends the existing literature by comprehensively understanding consumers' perceptions of purchasing fast food online. These findings can help online fast food sellers improve their services and develop targeted marketing strategies.
A hybrid spherical fuzzy AHP-MARCOS model for evaluating the condition of saltwater pipes in Hong Kong
Authors: Elshaboury Nehal , Zayed Tarek , Mohammed Abdelkader Eslam
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Water pipes degrade over time for a variety of pipe-related, soil-related, operational, and environmental factors. Hence, municipalities are necessitated to implement effective maintenance and rehabilitation strategies for water pipes based on reliable deterioration models and cost-effective inspection programs. In the light of foregoing, the paramount objective of this research study is to develop condition assessment and deterioration prediction models for saltwater pipes in Hong Kong.

Design/methodology/approach

As a perquisite to the development of condition assessment models, spherical fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (SFAHP) is harnessed to analyze the relative importance weights of deterioration factors. Afterward, the relative importance weights of deterioration factors coupled with their effective values are leveraged using the measurement of alternatives and ranking according to the compromise solution (MARCOS) algorithm to analyze the performance condition of water pipes. A condition rating system is then designed counting on the generalized entropy-based probabilistic fuzzy C means (GEPFCM) algorithm. A set of fourth order multiple regression functions are constructed to capture the degradation trends in condition of pipelines overtime covering their disparate characteristics.

Findings

Analytical results demonstrated that the top five influential deterioration factors comprise age, material, traffic, soil corrosivity and material. In addition, it was derived that developed deterioration models accomplished correlation coefficient, mean absolute error and root mean squared error of 0.8, 1.33 and 1.39, respectively.

Originality/value

It can be argued that generated deterioration models can assist municipalities in formulating accurate and cost-effective maintenance, repair and rehabilitation programs.
A tailored innovative model of “research internship” aimed at strengthening research competencies in STEM undergraduates
Authors: Siby Nitha , Ammar Mohammad , Bhadra Jolly , Elawad Elmogiera Fadlallh Elsaye , Al-Thani Noora Jabor , Ahmad Zubair
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Research internships are integral components of undergraduate programs that nurture students' skill sets. However, the current trend of these internships adopting a direct apprenticeship model, often termed “cookbook” laboratory sessions, falls short of cultivating 21st-century skills. Therefore, this study proposes an innovative Outcomes-directed Research Internship Model (ODRIM) designed to enhance research competencies.

Design/methodology/approach

This study introduces a pioneering research internship model by integrating the course-based undergraduate research experience (CURE) framework with principles rooted in outcomes-based education (OBE). To evaluate its effectiveness and compare it with traditional research internship models (TRIMs), a two-group pretest-posttest design was utilized. Statistical analysis was performed on data collected from 66 participants to assess their research competencies.

Findings

The results revealed a significant positive difference in utilizing the tailored innovative ODRIM track (pre-mean = 17.525, post-mean = 19.875; p = 0.009) compared to the TRIM track (pre-mean = 19.769, post-mean = 19.615; p = 1.000) in enhancing overall student research competency. Specifically, this innovative internship model notably enhanced students’ abilities in conducting research, showcasing technical skills, collaborating within teams, and disseminating research outcomes, encompassing the composition of research articles and reports.

Originality/value

This tailored approach to the “Research Internship” encourages a harmonious blend of hands-on, inquiry-based learning and clear, measurable learning goals. It not only cultivates an immersive and thorough research experience to improve students’ research competencies, but also guarantees a concentrated alignment with predetermined research learning objectives.
The meeting points of team entrepreneurial passion, transactive memory systems and team performance: examining mediation and necessity effects
Authors: Horvatinović Tin , Mikic Mihaela , Dabić Marina
Published: February 2024

Purpose

To support the advancement of an underrepresented category of research in the field of entrepreneurial teams, this study proposes and tests a novel empirical model that connects two team emergent states, namely team entrepreneurial passion (TEP) and transactive memory systems (TMSs), and their influence on team performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were gathered using an online questionnaire distributed to undergraduate students who had formed entrepreneurial teams as part of a course assignment. Two methods were executed on the obtained data, namely partial least-square structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) and necessary condition analysis (NCA).

Findings

The results uphold the hypothesised mediation role of TMSs between TEP and team performance. Of the two direct relations in the model, only the necessary conditions were present for the effect of TEP on TMSs.

Research limitations/implications

The issue of the small sample size, a common feature in entrepreneurial team research, as discussed in the methodical section of the paper, is sidestepped with the use of PLS-SEM tools. Nonetheless, a larger sample size could have increased confidence in the results' validity. In addition, a longitudinal approach to data collection and analysis could have been used to augment that confidence further.

Practical implications

Three practical implications stem from the empirical findings. First, it lends support for implementing teaching approaches and task designs that are envisaged to improve team functioning in university classrooms. Making a business plan boosts students' desire to exploit the received knowledge and find a venture, so the teaching effort in entrepreneurship courses can have real-world consequences.

Originality/value

By testing the mediation model, new insights are made into the associations between team emerging states and, subsequently, team performance. In addition, this study responds to recent calls in the literature to incorporate NCA in an entrepreneurial setting.
Are there differences in the perceived advantages and disadvantages of teleworking? The identification of distinct classes of teleworkers
Authors: Peñarroja Vicente
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Previous research has focused on the outcomes of telework, investigating the advantages and disadvantages of teleworking for employees. However, these investigations do not examine whether there are differences between teleworkers when evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of teleworking. The aim of this study is to identify of distinct classes of teleworkers based on the advantages and disadvantages that teleworking has for them.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used secondary survey data collected by the Spanish National Statistics Institute (INE). A sample of 842 people was used for this study. To identify the distinct classes of teleworkers, their perceived advantages and disadvantages of teleworking were analyzed using latent class analysis.

Findings

Three different classes of teleworkers were distinguished. Furthermore, sociodemographic covariates were incorporated into the latent class model, revealing that the composition of the classes varied in terms of education level, household income, and the amount of time spent on teleworking per week. This study also examined the influence of these emergent classes on employees’ experience of teleworking.

Originality/value

This study contributes to previous research investigating if telework is advantageous or disadvantageous for teleworkers, acknowledging that teleworkers are not identical and may respond differently to teleworking.
How to offer good service? A study on behavior of consumer expectations over time in educational service
Authors: Pereira Filho Evadio , Añez Miguel Eduardo Moreno , Nobrega Kleber Cavalcanti , Fernandes Leandro Trigueiro
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This article evaluates how consumer expectations evolve over time and if three antecedents (negative experiences, alternative attractiveness and level of visitation) explain possible changes in expectations.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual model is structured with six hypotheses that are tested through articulated studies. First, a study with a longitudinal approach is developed and applied to a sample of students. Data collection is carried out over three periods and a latent growth model (LGM) is applied. Further ahead, another essay is developed to reexamine the moderating role of corporate image and level of visitation on the effect of negative experiences on expectations. For this, the role-playing approach is applied.

Findings

Study 1 reveals that patterns of expectations change from one service meeting to another, and these mutations are influenced by negative experiences and alternative attractiveness. Three pieces of evidence are highlighted. First, negative experiences produce contradictory and simultaneous movements in consumer expectations. Negative experiences reduce desired expectations and, at the same time, increase adequate expectations. These effects change in magnitude because of the corporate image. This confirms the moderating role of the corporate image in the relationship between negative experiences and expectations. This does not happen with the level of visitation, in which the moderating function is not sustained. The findings about moderating effects are confirmed by Study 2. Second, as customers have alternative companies, the minimum level of expectation rises. Alternative attractiveness positively impacts only adequate expectations. Third, the results do not support the relationship between the level of visitation and expectations. This reveals that more frequent customers do not necessarily have higher expectations.

Originality/value

This paper is the first to provide empirical results about the moderating effects of corporate image and level of visitation on the relationship between negative experiences and expectations.
Sustainable development goals accounting and reporting for the “Other” sector
Authors: Lodhia Sumit
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This paper provides insights into Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Accounting and Reporting for the Other Sector, defined as organisations that are not corporations and do not have profitability as their overriding success criterion.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a conceptual paper that addresses the impact of SDGs on the Other Sector and the accounting and reporting of them by these organisations.

Research limitations/implications

There are a number of implications for research in relation to theories, research approaches and the crossing over of disciplines in relation to the Other Sector’s SDGs accounting and reporting.

Practical implications

The research insights from this paper can be applied to inform the SDGs accounting and reporting practice of the Other Sector.

Originality/value

This paper addresses the impact of the recent sustainability development, the SDGs, on a sector that is very different from the corporate sector and highlights the benefit of accounting and reporting of these goals for the Other Sector.
Unique consumption: the impact of busy mindset on preference for angular versus circular shapes
Authors: Sun Zhaoyang , Zhou Haiyang , Yang Tianchen , Wang Kun , Hou Yubo
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The shape of a product plays a crucial role in shaping consumer behavior. Despite the voluminous research on factors influencing consumers’ shape preferences, there remains a limited understanding of how the busy mindset, a mentality increasingly emphasized by marketing campaigns, works. This study aims to fill this gap by exploring the relationship between a busy mindset and the preference for angular-shaped versus circular-shaped products and brand logos.

Design/methodology/approach

This research consists of seven experimental studies using various shape stimuli, distinct manipulations of busy mindset, different assessments of shape preference and samples drawn from multiple countries.

Findings

The findings reveal that a busy mindset leads to a preference for angular shapes over circular ones by amplifying the need for uniqueness. In addition, these effects are attenuated when products are scarce.

Originality/value

This research represents one of the pioneering efforts to study the role of a busy mindset on consumers’ aesthetic preferences. Beyond yielding insights for practitioners into visual marketing, this research contributes to the theories on the busy mindset and shape preference.
Real Estate InsightsCompensation for compulsory acquisition – value vs worth
Authors: Parker David
Published: February 2024

Purpose

To explore value vs worth in the context of compulsory acquisition.

Design/methodology/approach

Analysis of statutory environment within the context of valuation theory.

Findings

Value and worth could be reconciled by redefining special value in Act.

Research limitations/implications

Public policy amendment.

Practical implications

Public policy amendment.

Social implications

Facilitate just compensation.

Originality/value

Topical issue in New South Wales, where massive compulsory acquisition programme underway to facilitate infrastructure development.
Service robot acceptance in museums: an empirical study using the service robot acceptance model (sRAM)
Authors: Wong Amy , Wong Jimmy
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aims to apply the service robot acceptance model (sRAM) to examine how attitude toward human–robot interaction (HRI) and engagement influence consumer acceptance of service robots in a frontline setting.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected from 255 visitors who interacted with a robotic tour guide at a city museum. The data was analyzed using smart PLS 4.0.

Findings

The findings show the positive effects of subjective norms, appearance, perceived trust and positive emotion on both attitude toward HRI and engagement. In addition, social capability impacted attitude toward HRI, whereas perceived usefulness affected engagement.

Practical implications

To deliver engaging museum experiences that bring about positive word-of-mouth and intention to visit, managers need to incorporate the sRAM dimensions in the design and deployment of service robots.

Originality/value

This research uses field data to empirically validate the sRAM in the context of service robot acceptance. It introduces engagement as a novel mediating variable, enriching current understanding of human-like qualities in HRIs.
The “problem” of Australian First Nations doctoral education: a policy analysis
Authors: Raciti Maria M. , Manathunga Catherine , Qi Jing
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Social marketing and government policy are intertwined. Despite this, policy analysis by social marketers is rare. This paper aims to address the dearth of policy analysis in social marketing and introduce and model a methodology grounded in Indigenous knowledge and from an Indigenous standpoint. In Australia, a minuscule number of First Nations people complete doctoral degrees. The most recent, major policy review, the Australian Council of Learned Academies (ACOLA) Report, made a series of recommendations, with some drawn from countries that have successfully uplifted Indigenous doctoral candidates’ success. This paper “speaks back” to the ACOLA Report.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper subjects the ACOLA Report, implementation plans and evaluations to a detailed Indigenous Critical Discourse Analysis using Nakata’s Indigenous standpoint theory and Bacchi’s Foucauldian discourse analysis to trace why policy borrowing from other countries is challenging if other elements of the political, social and cultural landscape are fundamentally unsupportive of reforms.

Findings

This paper makes arguments about the effects produced by the way the “problem” of First Nations doctoral education has been represented in this suite of Australian policy documents and the ways in which changes could be made that would actually address the pressing need for First Nations doctoral success in Australia.

Originality/value

Conducting policy analysis benefits social marketers in many ways, helping to navigate policy complexities and advocate for meaningful policy reforms for a social cause. This paper aims to spark more social marketing policy analysis and introduces a methodology uncommon to social marketing.
Quasi-static compression and energy absorption behaviour of polymeric selective laser sintered open cell lattices under varying relative densities
Authors: K Mohan Kumar , G Arumaikkannu
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to compare the influence of relative density (RD) and strain rates on failure mechanism and specific energy absorption (SEA) of polyamide lattices ranging from bending to stretch-dominated structures using selective laser sintering (SLS).

Design/methodology/approach

Three bending and two stretch-dominated unit cells were selected based on the Maxwell stability criterion. Lattices were designed with three RD and fabricated by SLS technique using PA12 material. Quasi-static compression tests with three strain rates were carried out using Taguchi's L9 experiments. The lattice compressive behaviour was verified with the Gibson–Ashby analytical model.

Findings

It has been observed that RD and strain rates played a vital role in lattice compressive properties by controlling failure mechanisms, resulting in distinct post-yielding responses as fluctuating and stable hardening in the plateau region. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) displayed the significant impact of RD and emphasised dissimilar influences of strain rate that vary to cell topology. Bending-dominated lattices showed better compressive properties than stretch-dominated lattices. The interesting observation is that stretch-dominated lattices with over-stiff topology exhibited less compressive properties contrary to the Maxwell stability criterion, whereas strain rate has less influence on the SEA of face-centered and body-centered cubic unit cells with vertical and horizontal struts (FBCCXYZ).

Practical implications

This comparative study is expected to provide new prospects for designing end-user parts that undergo various impact conditions like automotive bumpers and evolving techniques like hybrid and functionally graded lattices.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first work that relates the strain rate with compressive properties and also highlights the lattice behaviour transformation from ductile to brittle while the increase of RD and strain rate analytically using the Gibson–Ashby analytical model.
Adverse delivery hospitalisation outcomes in 2020 during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Wen Timothy , Logue Teresa C. , Wright Jason D. , D'Alton Mary , Booker Whitney A. , Friedman Alexander M.
Published: February 2024

Objective

To evaluate risk for adverse obstetric outcomes associated with the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic period and with COVID‐19 diagnoses.

Design

Serial cross‐sectional study.

Setting

A national sample of US delivery hospitalisations before (1/2016 to 2/2020) and during the first 10 months of (3/2020 to 12/2020) the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Population

All 2016–2020 US delivery hospitalisations in the National Inpatient Sample.

Methods

Delivery hospitalisations were identified and stratified into pre‐pandemic and pandemic periods and the likelihood of adverse obstetric outcomes was compared using logistic regression models with adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) as measures of association. Risk for adverse outcomes was also analysed specifically for 2020 deliveries with a COVID‐19 diagnosis.

Main Outcome Measure

Adverse maternal outcomes including respiratory complications and cardiac morbidity.

Results

Of an estimated 18.2 million deliveries, 2.9 million occurred during the pandemic. The proportion of delivery hospitalisations with a COVID‐19 diagnosis increased from 0.1% in March 2020 to 3.1% in December. Comparing the pandemic period to the pre‐pandemic period, there were higher adjusted odds of transfusion (aOR 1.12, 95% CI 1.05–1.19), a respiratory complication composite (aOR 1.37, 95% CI 1.29–1.46), cardiac severe maternal morbidity (aOR 1.30, 95% 1.20–1.39), postpartum haemorrhage (aOR 1.19, 95% CI 1.15–1.24), placental abruption/antepartum haemorrhage (OR 1.04, 95% CI 1.00–1.08), and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (OR 1.23, 95% CI 1.21–1.26). These associations were similar to unadjusted analysis. Risk for these outcomes during the pandemic period was significantly higher in the presence of a COVID‐19 diagnosis.

Conclusions

In a national estimate of delivery hospitalisations, the odds of cardiac and respiratory outcomes were higher in 2020 compared with 2016–2019. COVID‐19 diagnoses were specifically associated with a range of serious complications.
Antithrombotic effects of Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis larvae in a rat tail thrombosis model using κ‐carrageenan
Authors: Lee Kwang Yeon , Bae In Young
Published: February 2024

The present study aimed to investigate the preventive role of Protaetia brevitarsis seulensis (P. brevitarsis) larvae in the κ‐carrageenan‐induced rat tail thrombosis model, in comparison with that of heparin. Thrombosis was induced in Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats by intraperitoneal injection with a dose of 30 mg/kg κ‐carrageenan after receiving oral pretreatment with P. brevitarsis larvae at doses of 300 or 900 mg/kg. The control group was only given physiological saline for 7 days without the administration of κ‐carrageenan. The results indicate that pretreatment with P. brevitarsis larvae at 300 or 900 mg/kg not only significantly reduced the average length of the thrombus but also markedly decreased the fibrinogen levels and serum P‐selectin in a dose‐dependent manner (P < 0.05). However, there were no notable effects on the blood clotting times, such as prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). Moreover, the histological analysis of tail tissues treated with P. brevitarsis larvae supported the serum biochemical findings, thereby providing evidence of enhanced blood circulation. Based on these results, it was concluded that P. brevitarsis larvae had a positive effect on preventing thrombosis in vivo through the reduction of fibrinogen and P‐selectin levels, suggesting potential applications for thrombosis prevention.
The role of geographic market definition in analysis of grocery retailing
Authors: Wang Yanghao , Çakır Metin , Park Timothy A.
Published: February 2024

We examine how estimates of household food demand elasticities and store profit margins vary with alternative geographic market extents using structural models of household store choice and retailer competition. Our consumer store choice model is novel, simultaneously accounting for the heterogeneity of store choice sets, households' travel distance to stores, and their store‐specific shopping basket prices. We estimate the models using a unique combination of datasets on grocery purchases. We find that the geographic market extent is positively associated with household demand elasticity and negatively associated with store profit margins. The maximum market extent at which changes in demand elasticities become statistically insignificant varies by retailers, ranging between 10 and 16 km. These findings are robust to alternative assumptions of store competition. Our results imply that overlooking the locality of retail competition can result in overestimating the magnitudes of household demand elasticities while underestimating store profit margins, characterizing a relatively more competitive market.
Between victory and peace: Unravelling the paradox of hope in intractable conflicts
Authors: Shani Maor , Kunst Jonas R. , Anjum Gulnaz , Obaidi Milan , Leshem Oded Adomi , Antonovsky Roman , van Zalk Maarten , Halperin Eran
Published: February 2024

Previous research on group‐based hope has predominantly focused on positive intergroup outcomes, such as peace and harmony. In this paper, we demonstrate that hope experienced towards group‐centric political outcomes, such as a victory in a conflict and defeating the enemy, can be detrimental to peace. In Study 1, conducted among Israeli Jews, hope for victory over the Palestinians was uniquely associated with more support for extreme war policies, whereas hope for peace generally showed the opposite associations. In Study 2, we replicated these results among Muslim Pakistanis regarding the Pakistan–India dispute. Notably, in both Studies 1 and 2, only hope for victory significantly predicted personal violent extremist intentions. In Study 3, conducted with a representative sample of Israeli Jews, we found three latent profiles of hope: victory hopers, peace hopers, and dual hopers (hoping for both peace and victory). Finally, in preregistered Study 4, we longitudinally investigated how hopes for victory and peace changed from a relatively calm period in 2021 to the Israel–Hamas War of 2023, utilizing a Bivariate Latent Change Score analysis. Increases in hope for victory during the highly intense war explained the increase in support for violence. We discuss implications, limitations, and directions for future research.
Icariin promotes osteogenic differentiation of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells by regulating USP47/SIRT1/Wnt/β‐catenin
Authors: Wang Hongrui , Zhang Hongyue , Zhang Yuntong , Wang Panfeng
Published: February 2024

Icariin has been shown to promote osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). However, the underlying molecular mechanism by which Icariin regulates osteogenic differentiation needs to be further revealed. The viability of BMSCs was assessed by cell counting kit 8 assay. BMSC osteogenic differentiation ability was evaluated by detecting alkaline phosphatase activity and performing alizarin red S staining. The protein levels of osteogenic differentiation‐related markers, sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), ubiquitin‐specific protease 47 (USP47), and Wnt/β‐catenin‐related markers were determined using western blot. SIRT1 mRNA level was measured using quantitative real‐time PCR. The regulation of USP47 on SIRT1 was confirmed by ubiquitination detection and co‐immunoprecipitation analysis. Icariin could promote BMSC osteogenic differentiation. SIRT1 expression was enhanced by Icariin, and its knockdown suppressed Icariin‐induced BMSC osteogenic differentiation. Moreover, deubiquitinating enzyme USP47 could stabilize SIRT1 protein expression. Besides, SIRT1 overexpression reversed the inhibiting effect of USP47 knockdown on BMSC osteogenic differentiation, and USP47 knockdown also restrained Icariin‐induced BMSC osteogenic differentiation. Additionally, Icariin enhanced the activity of the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway by upregulating SIRT1. Icariin facilitated BMSC osteogenic differentiation via the USP47/SIRT1/Wnt/β‐catenin pathway.
Hypoparathyroidism and mortality after total thyroidectomy: A nationwide matched cohort study
Authors: Reinke Rasmus , Udholm Sebastian , Christiansen Christian Fynbo , Almquist Martin , Londero Stefano , Rejnmark Lars , Rasmussen Thomas Bøjer , Rolighed Lars
Published: February 2024

Objective

Total thyroidectomy (TT) carries a risk of hypoparathyroidism (hypoPT). Recently, hypoPT has been associated with higher overall mortality rates. We aimed to evaluate the frequency of hypoPT and mortality in patients undergoing TT in Denmark covering 20 years.

Design

Retrospective Cohort study.

Patients and measurements

Using population‐based registries, we identified all Danish individuals who had undergone TT between January 1998 and December 2017. We included a comparison cohort by randomly selecting 10 citizens for each patient, matched on sex and birth year. HypoPT was defined as treatment with active vitamin D after 12 months postoperatively. We used cumulative incidence to calculate risks and Cox regression to compare the rate of mortality between patients and the comparison cohort. We evaluated patients in different comorbidity groups using the Charlson Comorbidity Index and by different indications for surgery.

Results

7912 patients underwent TT in the period. The prevalence of hypoPT in the study period was 16.6%, 12 months postoperatively. After adjusting for potential confounders the risk of death due to any causes (hazard ratio; 95% confidence intervals) following TT was significantly increased (1.34; 1.15‐1.56) for patients who developed hypoPT. However, subgroup analysis revealed mortality was only increased in malignancy cases (2.48; 1.99‐3.10) whereas mortality was not increased when surgery was due to benign indications such as goitre (0.88; 0.68‐1.15) or thyrotoxicosis (0.86; 0.57‐1.28).

Conclusions

The use of active vitamin D for hypoPT was prevalent one year after TT. Patients with hypoPT did not have an increased risk of mortality following TT unless the indication was due to malignancy.
Outcomes after kidney transplant alone in patients with cirrhosis—A case‐control study
Authors: Nathani Rohit R. , Rutledge Stephanie M. , Villarroel Carolina S. , Shapiro Ron , Florman Sander S. , Tedla Fasika M. , Schiano Thomas D. , Im Gene Y.
Published: February 2024

Background

Guidelines recommend kidney transplant alone (KTA) in compensated cirrhosis based on a few small studies, but this is not widely performed despite its potential benefit to patients and the organ supply. Our aim was to determine the outcomes of KTA in patients with compensated cirrhosis.

Study design

From 1/2012 to 12/2021, outcomes in KTA recipients with compensated cirrhosis were retrospectively compared to patients with chronic liver disease (CLD) but no cirrhosis. Patients with compensated cirrhosis were also compared to a matched cohort (based on age, time on hemodialysis, sex, and ethnicity) of KTA recipients without CLD. The outcomes included patient survival, allograft failure, allograft rejection, serious infection, liver decompensation, and length of stay (LOS).

Results

Over 9 years, 1562 KTAs were performed, with 150 (9.6%) patients having CLD mostly due to chronic hepatitis C, and a median follow‐up of 3.5 years. 32/150 (21%) had compensated cirrhosis at the time of KTA with a mean MELD‐Na of 22 (1.5). Matched controls (n = 189) were identified. We found no differences in patient survival (p = .07), allograft failure (p = .6), allograft rejection (p = .43), rates of serious infection (p = .31), as well as LOS (p = .61) among patients with compensated cirrhosis compared to patients with CLD but no cirrhosis, but with higher rates of liver decompensation (p = .004). Similarly, compared to patients without CLD, patients with cirrhosis had similar rates of patient survival (p = .20), allograft failure (p = .27), allograft rejection (p = .62) and LOS (p = .19) but with higher rates of serious infections (p = .001).

Conclusions

Our study supports the safety and efficacy of KTA in patients with compensated cirrhosis.
Using icebreaker questions to improve Chinese students' engagement in transnational education – An action research
Authors: Liang Xiaoyan
Published: February 2024

Enhancing student engagement yields a multitude of benefits for students. It not only improves their satisfaction but also increases their motivation, enriches their learning experience, reduces their sense of isolation and ultimately enhances their academic performance. However, Chinese students in transnational education are known for being silent in the classroom. With overwhelming and consistent research findings in the pedagogical literature that participation in class discussion and asking questions are crucial activities that cultivate independent learning skills and develop the ability to apply knowledge, how to get Chinese students to speak up in class has clearly become an issue of concern to educators. Informed by the UK professional standards framework (UKPSF) and underpinned by Brookfield's four lenses model, this action research examined and confirmed the positive effect of using both personal‐related and course content‐related icebreaker questions at the beginning of the class to increase Chinese students' engagement. It also identified different effects these two types of questions might have on students' engagement and the potential concerns associated.
A systems thinking approach to capture the complexity of effective routes to teaching
Authors: Kuijpers Alma J. , Dam Michiel , Janssen Fred J. J. M.
Published: February 2024

STEM teacher shortage remains a serious problem in secondary education in many European countries, despite many interventions and many research studies over the last decades. The observation that past interventions and research outcomes have not significantly contributed to reduce teacher shortage implies that places to effectively intervene in the teacher education system have not been found yet. In this article, a systems thinking approach is presented to evaluate the fundamental and structural problems of an academic teacher education system regarding STEM student entry. A thorough understanding of the systemic structure of a teacher education system is essential to identify leverage points for STEM teacher recruitment. Based on systems thinking principles and theoretical frameworks, a stepwise research framework was defined, which was tested in the Dutch academic teacher education system. First, potential factors of concern were identified based on the collection of many data such as existing public information, reports and long‐term student entry data. These potential factors of concern were subsequently investigated by student surveys and structured interviews with stakeholders from science faculties and teacher training institutes. Synthesis of the results led to the identification of three leverage points for increasing STEM student entry in teacher training, which were all found at the organizational and structural level of the academic teacher education system. The systems thinking research framework presented in this article provides a valuable framework to address persistent problems in education and enables the identification of novel and potentially more effective interventions.
Full‐scale testing of near‐neutral pH stress corrosion cracking growth behavior of a vintage X52 oil pipe
Authors: Sun Haotian , Yan Li , Bibby Darren , Gravel Jean‐Philippe , Kang Jidong , Zhou Wenxing
Published: February 2024

This study presents an experimental investigation conducted on a 40‐year‐old vintage X52 oil pipe segment to assess the growth behavior of near‐neutral pH stress corrosion cracking (SCC). Six cracks were introduced on the pipe specimen, each of which was associated with a unique combination of metallurgical and environmental condition. SCC growth was evident in two base metal cracks respectively exposed to C2 and NS4. Stress intensity factors at the two cracks were evaluated using extended finite element method. Near‐neutral pH environment effects were observed to have a more pronounced effect on the stress intensity factor threshold for growth than on the growth rate. Higher stress levels and aging likely contribute to the difference in growth rates of different cracks. Electrochemical analysis suggests the corrosion‐crack propagation interplay, with a faster corrosion in the NS4 solution than that in the C2 solution consistent with the observed slower crack growth in NS4.
Eyebrow trichoscopy in leprosy
Authors: Ramos‐Cavazos Cesar J. , Villarreal‐Martinez Alejandra , Ocampo‐Candiani Jorge , Gomez‐Flores Minerva , Moreno‐Pecina Cristo A. , Chavez‐Alvarez Sonia
Published: February 2024

Background

Trichoscopy is a noninvasive technique based on the analysis of hair structures and the scalp, which allows for early diagnosis of different forms of alopecia.

Methods

We conducted a descriptive cross‐sectional study in the Dermatology Department of Hospital Universitario “Dr. José Eleuterio González” in Monterrey, Northeastern Mexico. We included 25 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of leprosy. Ten dermoscopic characteristics were assessed in the eyebrows of these patients. Images of the medial and distal portions of the eyebrows were included. Cohen's kappa coefficient was used for the analysis of coherence between the findings of two dermatologists.

Results

Of the 25 patients, 14 were male (56%) and 11 were female (44%), with a median age of 60.28 years (IQR: 40–87). The most common findings in the medial eyebrow included vellus hair (96%) and white‐yellowish structureless areas (84%). Furthermore, the most common features of the distal eyebrow included vellus hair (96%), white yellowish structureless areas (92%), and pinpoint white dots (92%).

Conclusions

To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first of its kind to describe trichoscopy findings in different leprosy subtypes and classify them into medial and distal eyebrow findings, which seem to be the most affected areas. Identification of these changes is easier in the distal portion of the eyebrows in every subtype of leprosy. We also discovered new trichoscopic findings in the eyebrows: perifollicular hyperpigmentation and yellow dots.
Negative familial weight talk and weight bias internalization in a US sample of children and adolescents
Authors: Rancaño Katherine M. , Puhl Rebecca , Skeer Margie , Eliasziw Misha , Must Aviva
Published: February 2024

Background

Negative familial weight talk may contribute to higher weight bias internalization in pre‐ and early adolescents (hereafter referred to as children) and may differ by gender, weight status, and race and ethnicity.

Objective

Examine the relationship between negative familial weight talk and weight bias internalization and examine differences by gender, weight status, and race and ethnicity.

Methods

We cross‐sectionally analysed 5th–7th graders (10–15 years old) living in Massachusetts (n = 375, 52.3% girls, 21.3% BMI ≥85th percentile, 54.8% non‐Hispanic White). Negative familial weight talk frequency during the past 3 months was self‐reported and discretized as ‘never,’ ‘occasionally’ (1–9 times) and ‘often’ (>9 times); the Modified Weight Bias Internalization Scale assessed weight bias internalization. Generalized linear models estimated the relationship between negative familial weight talk and weight bias internalization and sub‐analyses estimated the relationship across gender, weight status, and race and ethnicity. Results are summarized as ratios of means (RoM).

Results

Children experiencing negative familial weight talk occasionally (RoM = 1.12, p = 0.024) and often (RoM = 1.48, p < 0.001) had significantly higher weight bias internalization than children who never experienced it. In sub‐analyses, experiencing negative familial weight talk often was associated with higher weight bias internalization among girls (RoM = 1.66, p < 0.001), boys (RoM = 1.32, p = 0.007), children with BMI <85th percentile (RoM = 1.44, p = 0.007) and BMI ≥85th percentile (RoM = 1.39, p = 0.001), and non‐Hispanic White children (RoM = 1.78, p < 0.001), but not Hispanic (RoM = 1.25, p = 0.085) or non‐Hispanic Black children (RoM = 1.20; p = 0.31).

Conclusions

Frequent negative familial weight talk was associated with higher weight bias internalization across gender and weight status and in non‐Hispanic White children only.
Atomic‐level structure evolution of calcium silicate hydrate nucleation process, the amorphous‐to‐crystalline pathway
Authors: Zhang Yu , Wu Jiandong , Wang Liguo , Sun Guowen , Hou Dongshuai , Yu Jin , Jiang Jinyang
Published: February 2024

Calcium silicate hydrate (C‐S‐H) synthesis follows multistep nucleation processes ranging from amorphous globules to nanocrystals. This type of nonclassical nucleation pathway attracts extensive interest and yet related molecular processes are mostly unexplored. Herein, atomic‐level structure evolution during this process is unveiled. From inside to outside of the globule, the atomic arrangement evolves from amorphous configuration to layered stacking of calcium silicate layers with layers spaced by 1.1 nm. Numerous cations surrounding the globules provide extra calcium ions to form nano C‐S‐H foils at the edge of the globule. The polymerization to form calcium silicate chains has almost been completed before 5 min reaction, and the C‐S‐H structure formation is basically based on the self‐assembly to be calcium silicate layers and then lamellar crystal inside the globule. Silicate chain defects inhibit a‐ and c‐axes crystallization, but promote b‐axes one, leading to anisotropic growth of crystalline C‐S‐H. The defects lead to the crystallization pathways conversion from Si–O–Si bonds formation to Ca2+ electrostatic linking.
The business revolution: Economy‐wide impacts of artificial intelligence and digital platforms
Authors: Halaburda Hanna , Prince Jeffrey , Daniel Sokol D. , Zhu Feng
Published: February 2024

In this essay, we identify several themes of the digital business transformation, with a particular focus on the economy‐wide impacts of artificial intelligence and digital platforms. In doing so, we highlight specific industries, beyond just the high‐profile “Big Tech” firms, where the digital business revolution is having, or promises to have, significant impact. The papers in this special issue (flagged with bold font below) provide a deeper analysis of the themes and applications we touch on here.
Flood risk investigation of pedestrians and vehicles in a mountainous city using a coupled coastal ocean and stormwater management model
Authors: Liu Fei , Ren Chunjiao , Chen Yao
Published: February 2024

To examine the attributes, underlying mechanisms, and impacts of rainfall patterns on the vulnerability of pedestrians and vehicles to flood‐induced instability within mountainous urban areas, we introduced an integrated urban flood model that combined the Storm Water Management Model (SWMM) and Finite Volume Coastal Ocean Model (FVCOM). We implemented this model in the Yuelai New Town of Chongqing, China. Our findings indicated that in the case of early peak rainfalls, there was a rapid surge in flood volume during the initial stages of rainfall , while this increase was more gradual when the peak rainfall was delayed. Furthermore, for events with the same return period, flood peaks resulting from later peak rainfalls covered a larger area compared with those from earlier peak rainfalls; however, this effect diminished with increasing return periods. As the return period was extended, the exposed risk area for pedestrians and vehicles expanded. Analysis of instability indices revealed that pedestrians exhibit a lower index compared with vehicles, adults fare better than children, and SUVs outperform sedans. The efficacy of our proposed model framework was demonstrated through its successful application in assessing urban flood risk and evaluating the instability index for pedestrians and vehicles within a mountainous urban setting.