bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How does entrepreneurship education affect employability? Insights from UK higher education
Authors: Decker-Lange Carolin , Lange Knut , Walmsley Andreas
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the underexplored link between entrepreneurship education (EE) and graduate employability in the higher education (HE) sector in the United Kingdom (UK).

Design/methodology/approach

The study draws on a thematic content analysis of semi-structured interviews with 45 professionals in UK HE, representing the “supply” side of EE.

Findings

The findings demonstrate a unidirectional link between EE and employability outcomes. This link is affected by societal, stakeholder-related, and teaching and learning-related factors.

Research limitations/implications

Although the value of universities’ initiatives connecting EE and employability for economic development is emphasized, the study does not provide direct empirical evidence for this effect. Macroeconomic research is needed.

Practical implications

EE and employability would benefit from knowledge exchange between universities’ stakeholders and a broader understanding of what constitutes a valuable graduate outcome.

Social implications

The study reveals the benefits of EE on a micro level. Participation in EE supports the connection between individual investments in HE and employability.

Originality/value

Based on human capital theory, many policymakers regard EE as a vehicle through which the relationship between investments in HE and career success on a micro level and economic growth on a macro level can be nurtured. Challenging this logic, the study highlights the potential of institutional theory to explain a contextualization of the link between EE and employability on a national level.
Strategic drivers of innovation as a lever for the competitiveness of agribusiness to face COVID-19
Authors: da Silveira Alessandra Schopf , Rosa Carmen Brum , Siluk Julio Cezar Mairesse
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This work sought to analyze targeted innovation strategies used during the pandemic to maintain companies’ competitiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology was a systematic literature review, analyzing how these factors can be used as leverage in decision-making and suggesting a framework tool.

Findings

As a result, nine factors were identified as drivers to stimulate competitiveness, bringing insights to structure actions in times of crisis to support agribusiness.

Research limitations/implications

With this work, it is possible that other companies can base themselves and use the strategic drivers of innovation evidenced to remain competitive in the market during a period of crisis. As this is a systematic review of the literature, the application of a case study, for example, is a limitation, which could be a continuation of the work.

Practical implications

As this is a systematic review of the literature, the application of a case study, for example, is a limitation, which could be a continuation of the work.

Originality/value

This work has high value because it brings insights into strategic drivers of innovation that tend to leverage or maintain the competitiveness of agribusinesses in times of crisis. With the discussion carried out on the data obtained, it is possible that agribusinesses or other types of companies can be based for decision-making in a crisis scenario from innovative actions that generate competitive advantage.
Analyzing interrelationships among factors affecting hygiene and sanitization in India: key insights and policy recommendations
Authors: Thakkar Jitesh J. , Rathore Rishabh , Chatterjee Chandrima
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Despite the fact that hygiene and sanitation are becoming more critical for improving the present situation in developing nations, the factors that affect them are not well covered in the present research. This paper investigates the quality of the hygiene and sanitization factors and identifies the interrelations between the identified factors.

Design/methodology/approach

A graph theory-based approach is proposed to assess the factors influencing the practice, and a critical service index (CSI) is used to quantify the same.

Findings

Two Indian villages are used to illustrate the implementation of the suggested approach. This represents the validation of the suggested method, as well as assisting in the development of essential suggestions for increasing the quality of hygiene and sanitization in the Indian context. In spite of the increasing importance of hygiene and sanitation for improving the current situation in developing countries, the factors that influence them are not well-researched.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes in two ways. First, it provides an organized methodology for quantifying hygiene and sanitation factors and a critical service index that incorporates the findings. The suggested approach may also be used to evaluate and classify other sectors. Second, it shows how the methodology was used to create key recommendations for two Indian villages, which may be considered the first effort in India’s hygiene and sanitation initiatives.

Originality/value

This research discussed improvements in sanitation and hygiene habits among Indian households, which have not been achieved as expected under the Swachh Bharat Mission.
Digital resilience in the internationalization of small and medium companies: how does it work?
Authors: Wang Kai , Pellegrini Massimiliano Matteo , Xue Kunkun , Wang Cizhi , Peng Menghan
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Digital technologies over time are becoming increasingly pervasive and relatively affordable, finding a large diffusion in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) also for internationalization purposes. However, less is known about the specific mechanisms by which this can be achieved. Specifically, we focus on how SMEs can face the international environment, leveraging digital technologies and thanks to their intellectual capital (IC).

Design/methodology/approach

We analyze the relationship between digital technologies and the internationalization of SMEs, exploring the mediating role of IC in its three dimensions: human, relational and innovation capital, and assessing the possible moderating effects posed by international institutional conditions, specifically the Sino-US trade frictions. The relationships are tested using a sample of companies listed on China’s A-share Growth Enterprise Market (GEM) from 2010 to 2021.

Findings

Digital technologies help to internationalize SMEs. However, this positive relationship is affected (mediated) by the presence of an already consolidated IC. In addition, the institutional conditions of the international market, such as the Sino-US trade friction, moderate the components of IC differently. Specifically, the overall mediating effect of human and relational capital is boosted, while this does not happen for innovation capital.

Originality/value

First, this study contributes to the literature on organizational resilience, especially digital resilience, confirming its validity in the context of internationalization and, in particular, those processes adopted by SMEs. Second, we clarify the mechanisms through which digital technologies exert their impact on the process of internationalization and in particular the prominent necessity of having IC. Third, our conclusions enrich the understanding of how IC components react to turbulence in international markets.
Segmentation of passengers on the autism spectrum in their use, preferences and acceptance of digital technology at airports in Spain
Authors: Cerdan Chiscano Monica , Darcy Simon
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, airports have begun implementing more digital technologies. While these technologies can enhance the airport experience for passengers on the autism spectrum, this population tends to be studied as a single segment. However, people on the autism spectrum have different preferences, skills and abilities and levels of acceptance of digital technologies. We aim to explore the acceptance of recently implemented digital technologies, self-service kiosks and other digital technologies such as biometric facial recognition in the airport environment among passengers on the autism spectrum, who are not a single segment.

Design/methodology/approach

We carried out an academic-industry collaboration project in 2022 at Barcelona’s Josep Tarradellas Airport with the Spanish airport operator Aena, Vueling Airlines, three associations representing people on the autism spectrum (stakeholders) and 60 participants on the autism spectrum recruited by the three associations. Interviews were conducted during the airport visits to compare airport experiences: Group 1 provided input on the traditional airport experience using manual or analogue processes, and Group 2 provided feedback on the airport experience using digital technologies.

Findings

The use of cluster analysis revealed three distinct segments: traditional, automated with assistance from others and digital. Our findings provide airports with insights into recently implemented digital technologies at airports for passengers on the autism spectrum.

Originality

This article brings new knowledge about passengers on the autism spectrum and their relationship with digital technologies in the airport environment, a topic that has not been previously studied.
Employee whistleblowing: legislative perspectives and public perceptions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Authors: Al-Tawil Tareq Na'el
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the legislative framework that governs whistleblowing in the UAE.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper examines social perceptions and practical challenges related to the act of whistleblowing. It focuses on the effectiveness, limitations and implications of the current legal status of whistleblowing in the UAE.

Findings

The UAE does not have a unified legal framework that governs whistleblowing and whistleblower protections like in the case of the USA. Therefore, there is an urgent need for comprehensive federal regulations that will apply to all sectors across the entire UAE. Each emirate and economic zone can then model their whistleblowing regulations against the federal law to ensure consistency and uniformity in application. The UAE will also benefit from public awareness and education programs to address the conservative culture that discourages whistleblowing. Most importantly, corporate governance and culture are central to the success of existing laws considering the overreliance on organizations and employees.

Originality/value

The paper provides a robust and analytical discussion of the whistleblowing laws and regulations in the UAE to dissect current practices and implications for future practice.
Entrepreneurial marketing practices and manufacturing venture performance during a pandemic: the mediating role of innovation
Authors: Sahu Chinmaya Kumar , Panda Rajeev Kumar
Published: March 2024

Purpose

Previous research has indicated that entrepreneurial marketing (EM) positively influences small and medium-sized enterprises’ (SMEs) performance. While most studies have examined the relationship in a stable environment, EMs’ effectiveness during environmental instability remains uncertain. Therefore, the study aims to investigate the influence of EM on Indian manufacturing-based SMEs’ performance during the COVID-19-induced environmental instability. Additionally, it explores the mediating role of innovative performance in the relationship between EM and SME performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected by distributing a structured survey questionnaire to 302 owners/managers of SMEs. Hypotheses were tested using structural equation modeling (SEM).

Findings

The result indicates that EM significantly impacts both innovation and SME performance. Furthermore, the innovative performance partially mediates the link between EM and SME performance. The findings suggest that even within severely affected sectors (manufacturing) during the pandemic, SMEs can achieve growth and innovation through effective EM practices.

Research limitations/implications

This study validates the theoretical notion that EM remains effective even in unpredictable environments such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The findings offer valuable insights for SMEs seeking innovative strategies to enhance their performance, particularly those in emerging economies.

Originality/value

Prior studies have relied on a single layer of abstraction to analyze the impact of EM. The present study is the first to extend standard construct (EM) conceptualization. Furthermore, it evaluated the efficiency of EM in situations characterized by instability, which is rare in the EM and SME literature.
The effects of pre-loading on structural behavior of reinforced concrete beams under fire condition: a review
Authors: Suhaimi Aminuddin , Ibrahim Izni Syahrizal , Ab Kadir Mariyana Aida
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This review paper seeks to enhance knowledge of how pre-loading affects reinforced concrete (RC) beams under fire. It investigates key factors like deflection and load capacity to understand pre-loading's role in replicating RC beams' actual responses to fire, aiming to improve fire testing protocols and structural fire engineering design.

Design/methodology/approach

This review systematically aggregates data from existing literature on the fire response of RC beams, comparing scenarios with (WP) and without pre-loading (WOP). Through statistical tools like the two-tailed t-test and Mann–Whitney U-test, it assesses deflection extremes. The study further examines structural responses, including flexural and shear behavior, ultimate load capacity, post-yield behavior, stiffness degradation and failure modes. The approach concludes with a statistical forecast of ideal pre-load levels to elevate experimental precision and enhance fire safety standards.

Findings

The review concludes that pre-loading profoundly affects the fire response of RC beams, suggesting a 35%–65% structural capacity range for realistic simulations. The review also recommended the initial crack load as an alternative metric for determining the pre-loading impact. Crucially, it highlights that pre-loading not only influences the fire response but also significantly alters the overall structural behavior of the RC beams.

Originality/value

The review advances structural fire engineering with an in-depth analysis of pre-loading's impact on RC beams during fire exposure, establishing a validated pre-load range through thorough statistical analysis and examination of previous research. It refines experimental methodologies and structural design accuracy, ultimately bolstering fire safety protocols.
Expediting financial inclusion in Tanzania using FinTech: the perspective of diffusion of innovation theory
Authors: Koloseni Daniel , Mandari Herman
Published: March 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is examining how financial inclusion can be enhanced in rural and remote areas in emerging economies through the adoption of Financial technologies. The study examines the direct influence of technological characteristics, facilitating conditions, trust and perceived risk on adoption of FinTech. Furthermore, the study examines the mediating effects of facilitating conditions and moderating effects of education level in adoption of FinTech.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed quantitative research design. Stratified and simple random sampling were employed to identify areas in which respondents will be collected. Drop and Pick method was further employed to collect 275 valid and reliable responses. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the data and assess the reliability and validity of the measurement model. Structural model analysis was employed to examine the hypothesized relationship.

Findings

The results show that compatibility, complexity agent trust, perceived risk and facilitating have significant influence on adoption of FinTech. Furthermore, the findings show that facilitating conditions mediate the relationship between all technological characteristics and FinTech adoption except the relationship between compatibility and FinTech. The study also has found that education level moderates the relationship between observability and FinTech adoption as well as trialability and FinTech adoption.

Research limitations/implications

This study employed cross-sectional research-based techniques in collecting data for analyzing the hypothesized relationship. However, the drawback of cross-sectional may impact the findings of this study over a long time. Therefore, future studies must consider conducting longitudinal studies which may collect data over some time for analysis of the FinTech adoption. Furthermore, the generalization of these findings should be considered carefully by other countries which are not economically similar to Tanzania and developed countries. This also provides room for future studies to examine the same area in countries with different economic development.

Originality/value

This study contributes to knowledge into two folds: First there is limited knowledge on adoption of FinTech in emerging economies; the study addresses the knowledge gap by providing empirical findings which will help scholar. Furthermore, less studies have examined the moderating effects of facilitating condition in adoption of technology. This study addresses the knowledge gap by examining the moderating influence of moderating influence of facilitating conditions. Also, this study provides empirical findings which will help policymakers to implement strategy that will speed-up financial inclusion in rural and isolated areas in emerging economies.
Seed‐dispersal mode and habitat connectivity underpin variation in carbon stocking between Brazilian biomes
Authors: Gonçalves Rute Maria , Grilo Clara , Edwards David P. , Pyles Marcela V. , Passamani Marcelo , Fontes Marco Aurélio Leite , Santos Rubens Manoel Dos , Magnago Luiz Fernando Silva
Published: March 2024

In tropical forests, about 60%–80% of woody plant species depend on animal–plant interactions for dispersal. The dependence on animal species for dispersal makes this interaction very fragile in the face of anthropogenic changes in land use. Disrupting seed‐dispersal processes, principally zoochoric dispersal, could significantly alter the long‐term carbon storage potential of tropical forests.

An important question is how landscape structure changes tree carbon stocks in different types of tropical vegetation and how variation is mediated by the dispersal mode of animal (zoochoric) or abiotic (non‐zoochoric) seeds.

We focused on tree plots at 126 sites in Brazil spanning four types of forest and savanna vegetation, and calculated carbon stored in zoochoric, non‐zoochoric, and large frugivore‐dispersed species.

Our results showed that carbon stocks in zoochoric species and non‐zoochoric species differ significantly among vegetation types, with rainforests having higher stocks in zoochoric species and deciduous seasonally dry tropical forests having higher values in non‐zoochoric species. A greater area of native vegetation promotes higher proportions of carbon stocks dispersed by large frugivore species, whereas a higher mean shape index reduces this proportion.

Synthesis. This study highlights that seed‐dispersal type underpins the variation in carbon stocks between vegetation types and that the maintenance of habitat of large dispersers and connectivity are key for retaining carbon stocks in zoochoric species, particularly in rainforest and cerrado sensu stricto.
Escaping Zombiness: Does Corporate Governance Have the Elixir of Life?
Authors: Rodríguez‐Sanz Juan Antonio , Vallelado Eleuterio , Velasco Pilar
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the influence of corporate governance on firms’ transition into and out of zombiness. We underscore the beneficial role of external members in the corporate governance structure and long‐tenured chief executive officers (CEOs) in facilitating access to the external resources that firms need to be successful. Using a sample of European listed firms over the period 2008–2018, we adopt a dynamic view of zombiness by identifying shifts in the state from zombie to non‐zombie and vice versa. The results show that board independence is a twofold panacea against zombies, prompting zombie recovery and preventing healthy firms from becoming zombies. By contrast, leadership independence, materialized by separating the CEO and chairperson roles, hampers the recovery of zombies, probably because the cost of lacking unified leadership may exceed the benefits of external dependence minimization. Finally, the results suggest that longer CEO tenure helps healthy firms avoid zombiness. When considering a broader array of stakeholders, government bailout programmes impair zombie recovery, and stronger trade unions help healthy firms escape zombiness. Overall, this study brings a ray of hope to the zombie problem and provides a better appraisal of when supporting zombies might be worthwhile vis‐à‐vis saving promising firms and bringing them back to life.
Improving search efficiency in housing markets using online listings
Authors: Sing Tien Foo , Zou Yiheng
Published: March 2024

The use of online listing portals helps improve search efficiency in real estate markets. Unlike the traditional channel, buyers could search more properties and find ones with characteristics that were closer to their preferences via the online channel. Using the merged data sets containing online listings and transactions in the private residential property markets in Singapore, we found that real estate agents sell houses for an average premium of 4.21% using online listings relative to other agents using the traditional listing channel. The models use the propensity score matching approach to remove compositional differences in the samples and include property and spatial attributes in the controls, as well as the fixed effects on the agency, planning sector, and month‐year. Using only the matched online listing‐transaction samples, we found that exclusive listings, using more words and numeric in listing content, making listing descriptions easy to read, and selecting multiple listing portals are online listing strategies that enable real estate agents to sell houses faster and above the asking prices.
Physical and chemical characteristics of walnut (Juglans regia L.) kernels with different skin lightness
Authors: Athaillah Zatil A. , Wang Selina C.
Published: March 2024

Walnuts undergo rigorous grading before being sold to customers. There are multiple parameters used for the grading, including skin lightness. Walnuts with light skin receive superior grades while walnuts with dark skin are given poor grades or even rejected. However, information on the quality and physicochemical properties of walnuts with varying skin lightness levels is minimal. Therefore, we studied the quality of kernels of varying skin lightness from three common cultivars grown in California, USA (Chandler, Howard, and Tulare). The samples were subjected to size and weight, fat content, free fatty acid, peroxide value, oxidative stability, volatiles, tocopherols, fatty acid profile, and phenol measurements. The dark kernels had significantly lower weight and fat content, higher oxidative stability, and more volatiles than their light counterparts. The dark kernels had higher concentrations of some phenolics but low procyanidin B1 and non‐existent epicatechin gallate, compared to the light kernels, indicating that these two phenolics were likely involved in an antioxidant mechanism. Oxidation and depletion of epicatechin gallate likely contributed to the darkening of walnut color.
Procalcitonin and C‐reactive protein as early markers of anastomotic leakage in intestinal resections for advanced ovarian cancer (EDMOCS)
Authors: Sánchez‐Iglesias José Luis , Morales‐Coma Clara , Minig Lucas , Lago Víctor , Domingo Santiago , Mancebo Gemma , Siegrist Jaime , Fidalgo García María Soledad , Llueca Antoni , Serra Anna , Cobas Lozano Paloma , Lekuona Artola Arantza , Gómez‐Hidalgo Natalia R. , Acosta Úrsula , Ferrer‐Costa Roser , Bradbury Melissa , Pérez‐Benavente Assumpció , Gil‐Moreno Antonio ,   the SEGO Spain‐GOG Group
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Serum levels of procalcitonin and C‐reactive protein (CRP) have been used to predict anastomotic leakage after colorectal surgery, but information is scarce in advanced ovarian cancer (AOC) surgery with bowel resection. This study aimed to assess the predictive value of procalcitonin and CRP in detecting anastomotic leakage after AOC surgery with bowel resection. The study also aimed to determine the optimal postoperative reference values and the best day for evaluating these markers.

Material and methods

This prospective, observational and multicentric trial included 92 patients with AOC undergoing debulking surgery with bowel resection between 2017 and 2020 in 10 reference hospitals in Spain. Procalcitonin and CRP levels were measured at baseline and on postoperative days 1–6. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to evaluate the predictive value of procalcitonin and CRP at each postoperative day. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were calculated.

Results

Anastomotic leakage was detected in six patients (6.5%). Procalcitonin and CRP values were consistently higher in patients with anastomotic leakage at all postoperative days. The maximum area under the curve (AUC) for procalcitonin was observed at postoperative day 1 (AUC = 0.823) with a cutoff value of 3.8 ng/mL (83.3% sensitivity, 81.3% specificity). For CRP, the maximum AUC was found at postoperative day 3 (AUC = 0.833) with a cutoff level of 30.5 mg/dL (100% sensitivity, 80.4% specificity).

Conclusions

Procalcitonin and C‐reactive protein are potential biomarkers for early detection of anastomotic leakage after ovarian cancer surgery with bowel resection. Further prospective studies with a larger sample size are needed to confirm these findings.
The impact of COVID‐19 on medication reviews in English primary care. An OpenSAFELY‐TPP analysis of 20 million adult electronic health records
Authors:   The OpenSAFELY Collaborative, Wood Christopher , Speed Victoria , Fisher Louis , Curtis Helen J. , Schaffer Andrea L. , Walker Alex J. , Croker Richard , Brown Andrew D. , Cunningham Christine , Hulme William J. , Andrews Colm D. , Butler‐Cole Ben F. C. , Evans David , Inglesby Peter , Dillingham Iain , Bacon Sebastian C. J. , Davy Simon , Ward Tom , Hickman George , Bridges Lucy , O'Dwyer Thomas , Maude Steven , Smith Rebecca M. , Mehrkar Amir , Bates Chris , Cockburn Jonathan , Parry John , Hester Frank , Harper Sam , Goldacre Ben , MacKenna Brian
Published: March 2024

Aims

The COVID‐19 pandemic caused significant disruption to routine activity in primary care. Medication reviews are an important primary care activity ensuring safety and appropriateness of prescribing. A disruption could have significant negative implications for patient care. Using routinely collected data, our aim was first to describe codes used to record medication review activity and then to report the impact of COVID‐19 on the rates of medication reviews.

Methods

With the approval of NHS England, we conducted a cohort study of 20 million adult patient records in general practice, in‐situ using the OpenSAFELY platform. For each month, between April 2019 and March 2022, we report the percentage of patients with a medication review coded monthly and in the previous 12 months with breakdowns by regional, clinical and demographic subgroups and those prescribed high‐risk medications.

Results

In April 2019, 32.3% of patients had a medication review coded in the previous 12 months. During the first COVID‐19 lockdown, monthly activity decreased (−21.1% April 2020), but the 12‐month rate was not substantially impacted (−10.5% March 2021). The rate of structured medication review in the last 12 months reached 2.9% by March 2022, with higher percentages in high‐risk groups (care home residents 34.1%, age 90+ years 13.1%, high‐risk medications 10.2%). The most used medication review code was Medication review done 314530002 (59.5%).

Conclusions

There was a substantial reduction in the monthly rate of medication reviews during the pandemic but rates recovered by the end of the study period. Structured medication reviews were prioritized for high‐risk patients.
Recognizing and coping with suicidal thoughts: A mixed‐methods investigation of digital safety plan content
Authors: Rainbow Christopher , Tatnell Ruth , Blashki Grant , Melvin Glenn A.
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Suicide safety plans are a personalized means of documenting how a person at risk of suicide recognizes and intends to cope with emerging suicidal thoughts. This study aimed to understand how users of digital suicide safety plans describe their warning signs, methods of coping and any relationships between these that may emerge.

Methods

A sample comprising 150 users of the Australian suicide safety planning smartphone app Beyond Now consented to share the content of their safety plans. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to identify themes in overall plan content. Most participants identified as women (61%), had a history of at least one suicide attempt (61%) and completed their plans by themselves (84%).

Results

Three major themes emerged: (1) interpersonal challenges and complexity; (2) matching coping strategies to warning signs; and (3) helpful and harmful digital technology use. Most plans appeared to demonstrate high self‐awareness of warning signs and available supports.

Conclusions

Safety plan content provides a window into the thought process underlying the recognition of suicidal thoughts and the attempts to manage them. An opportunity exists for practitioners and support persons to use this content when collaboratively supporting a safety plan user to improve their coping strategies and support networks.
‘We wait and we wait’—caregiver perspectives on autism spectrum disorder services in the Western Cape Province of South Africa
Authors: Pillay Sarosha , Duncan Madeleine , de Vries Petrus J.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Caregivers of children with autism face significant challenges in navigating health, education and other systems of care to ensure appropriate services for their children. In South Africa, for example, many children with autism are reported to be out of schools and waiting long periods for specialist school placements thus adding to the burden of care for caregivers and raising many questions about equity, diversity and inclusion.

Methods

Here we performed a qualitative study using focus groups to collect data on the perspectives of caregivers of children with autism waiting for school placement in the Western Cape Province of South Africa. We asked families about their experiences of current autism services and for suggestions to improve service delivery.

Results

The main theme that emerged was ‘We wait and we wait’. Caregivers expressed high levels of frustration with existing autism educational and other services. Perspectives about services were captured under three categories. The first category, ‘The costs of waiting’ describes the socioemotional, financial and time costs associated with having a child with autism wait for educational services. The second category ‘Barriers while waiting’ describes the attitudinal, structural, process and communication barriers experienced by caregivers while seeking services for their children. The final category ‘Expecting action’ describes attitudinal, service and policy expectations that caregivers felt could improve service delivery. Caregivers provided 10 recommendations for autism service improvements.

Conclusion

Caregivers of children with autism waiting for educational services in the Western Cape Province of South Africa expressed dissatisfaction with existing services. Efforts to find solutions to providing services and support to children with autism waiting for educational services and their caregivers should be prioritized.
Synthesis, characterization, and anti‐inflammatory properties of novel ethyl 3‐benzoyl‐7‐(trifluoromethyl)indolizine‐1‐carboxylate derivatives: In silico and in vitro analysis
Authors: Singh Harshada Rambaboo , Kushwaha Prajjwal , Tandon Reetika , Srivastava Nidhi , Chandrashekharappa Sandeep
Published: March 2024

Series of 7‐(Trifluoromethyl) substituted indolizine 4a‐g was synthesized using the one‐pot method. Spectroscopic techniques such as IR, 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, and HRMS were used for the structure confirmation of newly synthesized compounds. These 4a‐g compounds were tested for their anti‐inflammatory activity. In this study, we identified novel indolizine derivative compounds 4a‐g selectively targeting COX‐2 enzyme, tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and, interleukin‐6 (IL‐6). The in silico docking studies of 4a‐g showed that these compounds have a higher affinity for COX‐2 enzyme, TNF‐ α, and IL‐6. In silico ADME profile analysis predicts that these compounds have good gastrointestinal tract and blood–brain barrier absorption. In vitro studies showed that compound 4d significantly reduces the level of COX‐2 enzymes as compared to indomethacin. Compounds 4e, 4f, and 4a were also found to significantly reduce the level of TNF‐α, while compounds 4f, 4g, and 4d, showed a reduction in the level of IL‐6 when compared to indomethacin. Compounds 4a, 4d, and 4f also reduces nitric oxide (NO) level, compared to indomethacin. Overall, the current study illustrates significant anti‐inflammatory activities of these novel 7‐(Trifluoromethyl) substituted indolizine derivatives.
Single crown restorations supported by 6‐mm implants in the resorbed posterior mandible: A 10‐year prospective case series
Authors: Guljé Felix L. , Raghoebar Gerry M. , Gareb Barzi , Vissink Arjan , Meijer Henny J. A.
Published: March 2024

Purpose

To assess marginal bone level changes, implant and restoration survival, condition of the peri‐implant mucosa, and the patient's satisfaction with the single restoration supported by a 6‐mm long implant in the posterior mandible after 10 years in function.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐one consecutive patients missing premolars or molars in the posterior mandible, with a bone volume consisting of a width of at least 6 mm and an estimated height of 8 mm between the top of the ridge and alveolar nerve, were included. Each patient received one or more 6‐mm implants. After 3 months, the implants were restored with custom‐made titanium abutments and cemented zirconia‐based porcelain crowns. The clinical examination and radiograph data were assessed at restoration placement and after 12, 60, and 120 months. The patients answered a questionnaire to score their satisfaction before treatment and after 12, 60, and 120 months with the restoration in function.

Results

A total of 31 implants were placed. Implant survival was 100%. The 10‐year mean marginal bone loss was 0.18 mm (SE: 0.08). The plaque, calculus, gingiva, and bleeding indices scores were low as was the mean pocket probing depth. The patients' satisfaction was high.

Conclusion

The 10‐year follow‐up data of this limited case series study reveal that 6‐mm dental implants inserted in the resorbed posterior mandible provide a solid basis for single tooth restorations.
Interobserver variability in cytopathology: How much do we agree?
Authors: Acanfora Gennaro , Carillo Anna Maria , Dello Iacovo Filippo , Salatiello Maria , Pisapia Pasquale , Bellevicine Claudio , Troncone Giancarlo , Vigliar Elena
Published: March 2024

Interobserver variability remains a major challenge for cytopathologists despite the development of standardized reporting and classification systems. Indeed, whereas moderate‐to‐good interobserver agreement is generally achievable when the differential diagnosis between benign and malignant entities is straightforward, high levels of variability make the diagnostic interpretation of atypical and suspicious samples not consistent. This review explores the landscape of interobserver agreement in cytopathology across different anatomical sites.
TAAR1 agonist ulotaront delays gastric emptying of solids in patients with schizophrenia and concurrent metabolic syndrome with prediabetes
Authors: Milanović Snežana , Dedic Nina , Lew Robert , Burton Duane , Koblan Kenneth S. , Camilleri Michael , Hopkins Seth C.
Published: March 2024

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS), which can be induced or exacerbated by the current class of antipsychotic drugs, is highly prevalent in patients with schizophrenia and presents significant challenges to lifetime disease management. Supported by initial clinical results, trace amine‐associated receptor 1 (TAAR1) agonists have emerged as potential novel treatments for schizophrenia. Notably, non‐clinical studies have also shown weight‐lowering and glucoregulatory effects of TAAR1 agonists, including the investigational agent ulotaront. However, the translatability of these findings to humans has not been adequately assessed. Given that delayed gastric emptying (GE) was identified as a potential mechanism contributing to the metabolic benefits of TAAR1 agonists in rodents, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of ulotaront on GE in patients with schizophrenia and concurrent MetS with prediabetes.

Methods

Patients with schizophrenia were randomized to receive a single oral dose of ulotaront (150 mg) and their previous antipsychotic (PA) in an open‐label, crossover, two‐sequence design (NCT05402111). Eligible participants fulfilled at least three of five MetS criteria and had prediabetes defined by elevated glycated haemoglobin (5.7‐6.4%) and/or fasting homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (i.e. ≥2.22). Following an overnight fast and 4 h post‐dose, participants ingested a 99mTc‐sulphur colloid radiolabelled egg meal (320 kcal, 30% fat). GE was measured by scintigraphy over 4 h. Endpoints included GE of solids half‐time (T1/2) and percentage gastric retention at 1, 2 and 4 h.

Results

Thirty‐one adults were randomized and 27 completed the study. Ulotaront significantly delayed GE of solids [median GE T1/2 ulotaront at 139 min (119, 182) vs. the participant's PA of 124 min (109, 132), p = .006]. A significant increase in gastric retention was seen in the ulotaront versus the PA group at 1 h (80% vs. 75%, p = .015), 2 h (61% vs. 50%, p = .023) and 4 h (17% vs. 7%, p = .002) post‐meal.

Conclusion

Ulotaront delayed the GE of solids in patients with schizophrenia and concurrent MetS with prediabetes. Additional studies are needed to assess whether treatment with TAAR1 agonists is associated with weight loss and glucoregulatory improvement.
How does national SOC monitoring on agricultural soils align with the EU strategies? An example using five case studies
Authors: Meurer Katharina H. E. , Hendriks Chantal M. J. , Faber Jack H. , Kuikman Peter J. , van Egmond Fenny , Garland Gina , Putku Elsa , Barancikova Gabriela , Makovníková Jarmila , Chenu Claire , Herrmann Anke M. , Bispo Antonio
Published: March 2024

Soil functioning contributes to the delivery of a vast range of ecosystem goods and services, and ecosystem health is therefore reflected by the capacity of the soil to perform underlying functions. Soil organic carbon (SOC) is a key indicator for soil quality as it is an integral driver of many soil functions and associated ecosystem services. Across the globe, SOC stocks are declining due to expanding agriculture and unsustainable practices. Awareness of the fact that soil is a non‐renewable resource and its functioning important for all life on Earth is increasing, especially among policymakers. As such, goals for the preservation and restoration of SOC are formulated in policies under the European Green Deal. However, the evaluation of these goals at the European level is hampered by a non‐harmonized diversity in national SOC monitoring strategies. While some SOC indicators can be useful for the evaluation of most policy goals (i.e., baseline and potential SOC stocks), additional and contrasting SOC data are often required for the evaluation of the goals formulated by the different EU directives. This study provides an overview of five ongoing SOC monitoring programmes across Europe and discusses how national programmes may be aligned to evaluate goals at the EU level. Five countries with very different soil monitoring programmes were included in a case study to illustrate the potential for harmonization and standardization of SOC assessment. Based on this study, we conclude that SOC monitoring strategies can be harmonized, but not standardized. We further suggest five sampling strategies that have potential for harmonization under the proposed Directive on Soil Monitoring and Resilience.
Acetazolamide as an effective treatment for pilomotor seizures in autoimmune encephalitis
Authors: Gilani Kia , Tarazi Apameh , Wennberg Richard
Published: March 2024

Pilomotor seizures are strongly associated with autoimmune encephalitis (AE), particularly anti‐LGI1 encephalitis. The carbonic anhydrase inhibitor acetazolamide may have special efficacy for treating AE‐associated pilomotor seizures. Six patients with AE (five anti‐LGI1, one seronegative) and temporal lobe pilomotor seizures (five with seizures inducible by hyperventilation) were treated with acetazolamide, administered in a cycling (2‐days‐ON, 4‐days‐OFF) regimen to offset tolerance. Seizures were assessed during epilepsy monitoring unit (EMU) recordings in four inpatients (one of whom also maintained an outpatient seizure diary chronicling 1203 seizures over 1079 days); two outpatients self‐reported seizure frequencies. The extended diary revealed an inverse correlation between acetazolamide and proportion of seizures/day: 6%, 2% (days 1, 2 ON); 3%, 13%, 31%, 45% (days 1, 2, 3, 4 OFF). This patient later developed focal status epilepticus upon wean of antiseizure medications during a seropositive AE relapse that was remarkably aborted with acetazolamide monotherapy. The other three EMU patients averaged .56 seizures/day ON, and 3.81 seizures/day OFF (p = .004). The two outpatients reported seizure reductions from 3–5/day to 2/week, and 15–20/day to none, respectively, after initiation of cycling acetazolamide. Likely related to cerebral CO2/pH sensitivity, acetazolamide can be unusually effective in controlling pilomotor seizures in AE, chronically or in acute settings.
Clinical profile, treatment and quality of life of patients with psoriatic arthritis in Malaysia: A population‐based cross‐sectional study
Authors: Goh Shiau Fui , Wong Siu Bee , Robinson Suganthy , Tang Min Moon
Published: March 2024

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a major comorbidity of psoriasis and may lead to irreversible joint damage and disability. This study aims to describe the clinical profile, treatment and quality of life (QoL) of patients with PsA in Malaysia. This is a multicentre retrospective cross‐sectional study of psoriasis patients who were notified to the Malaysian Psoriasis Registry (MPR) from January 2007 to December 2018. Of 21 735 psoriasis patients, 2756 (12.7%) had PsA. The male to female ratio was 1:1. The mean age of psoriasis onset for PsA patients was 34.73 ± 14.44 years. They had a higher rate of family history of psoriasis (26% vs. 22.4%, p < 0.001), scalp (82.7% vs. 81.0%, p = 0.04) and nail involvement (73.3% vs. 53.3%, p < 0.001), obesity (62.6% vs. 54.4%, p < 0.001), dyslipidaemia (23.8% vs. 15.4%, p < 0.001), hypertension (31.1% vs. 22.7%, p < 0.001) and diabetes mellitus (20.9% vs. 15.2%, p < 0.001) compared to non‐PsA patients. More than half (54.3%) had severe psoriasis [(body surface area >10% and/or Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) >10)]. Most had oligo‐/monoarthropathy (40.3%), followed by distal interphalangeal arthropathy (31.3%), symmetrical polyarthropathy (28.3%), spondylitis/sacroiliitis (8.2%) and arthritis mutilans (3.2%). Nearly 40% of PsA patients received systemic treatment, but only 1.6% received biologic agents. QoL was more significantly affected in PsA than in non‐PsA patients (mean DLQI 10.12 ± 7.16 vs. 9.52 ± 6.67, p < 0.001). One in eight patients with psoriasis in Malaysia had PsA. They had a higher incidence of comorbidities, severe disease, impaired QoL and were more likely to receive systemic and biological treatment compared to non PsA patients.
Analyses of tertiary lymphoid structures observed in cases of Merkel cell carcinoma showing spontaneous regression
Authors: Nakamura Motoki , Yoshimitsu Maki , Magara Tetsuya , Kano Shinji , Kato Hiroshi , Morita Akimichi
Published: March 2024

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a high‐grade skin cancer, but spontaneous regression is observed at a markedly higher frequency than in other carcinomas. Although spontaneous regression is a phenomenon that greatly impacts treatment planning, we still cannot predict it. We previously reported on the prognostic impact of the presence or absence of tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS) and of Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) infection. To learn more about the spontaneous regression of MCC, detailed analyses were performed focusing on spontaneous regression cases. We collected 71 Japanese patients with MCC including 6 cases of spontaneous regression. Samples were analysed by immunostaining, spatial single‐cell analysis using PhenoCycler, and RNA sequencing using the next‐generation sequencer (NGS). All 6 cases of spontaneous regression were positive for MCPyV. TLS was positive in all 5 cases analysed. Spatial single‐cell analyses revealed that PD‐L1‐positive tumour cells were in close proximity to CD20‐positive B cell and CD3‐, 4‐positive T cells. Gene set enrichment analysis between MCPyV‐positive and TLS‐positive samples and other samples showed significantly high enrichment of “B‐cell–mediated immunity” gene sets in the MCPyV‐positive and TLS‐positive groups. In conclusion, TLS may play an important role in the spontaneous regression of MCC.
Cannabinoids for the treatment of autoimmune and inflammatory skin diseases: A systematic review
Authors: Kuzumi Ai , Yamashita Takashi , Fukasawa Takemichi , Yoshizaki‐Ogawa Asako , Sato Shinichi , Yoshizaki Ayumi
Published: March 2024

In recent years, the medical use of cannabinoids has attracted growing attention worldwide. In particular, anti‐inflammatory properties of cannabinoids led to their emergence as potential therapeutic options for autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. Recent studies have also shown that cannabinoid receptors are widely expressed and have endogenous ligands in the skin, suggesting that the skin has its own endocannabinoid system. The aim of this review is to discuss the potential therapeutic effects of cannabinoids in autoimmune and inflammatory skin diseases. Following an overview of cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system, we describe the cellular and molecular mechanisms of cannabinoids in skin health and disease. We then review the clinical studies of cannabinoids in autoimmune and inflammatory skin diseases including systemic sclerosis (SSc), dermatomyositis (DM), psoriasis (Pso) and atopic dermatitis (AD). A primary literature search was conducted in July 2023, using PubMed and Web of Science. A total of 15 articles were included after excluding reviews, non‐human studies and in vitro studies from 389 non‐duplicated articles. Available evidence suggests that cannabinoids may be beneficial for SSc, DM, Pso and AD. However, further studies, ideally randomized controlled trials, are needed to further evaluate the use of cannabinoids in autoimmune and inflammatory skin diseases.