bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiological Analysis of Common Infections in Rural Pakistan: Implications for Public Health Interventions
Authors: Mahmood Shahzad , Chaudary Nauman Ali , Kataria Jafar Riaz , Tahir Muhammad Naveed , Noor Maham
Published: February 2025

Infectious diseases remain a major public health challenge in rural Pakistan due to limited healthcare access and infrastructure. This cross-sectional study examines the prevalence of gastrointestinal, respiratory, and dermatological infections across different age and gender groups in a rural population. Data were collected over 45 days from a basic health unit serving seven villages with a population of 50,000. Patients were categorized based on infection type, gender, and age group. The findings revealed distinct epidemiological patterns: respiratory and dermatological infections peaked in the 15-49 age group before declining in older adults, while gastrointestinal infections were most prevalent in children aged 1-4 years. Males exhibited a slightly higher prevalence of dermatological infections, whereas gastrointestinal and respiratory infections showed minor gender-based variations. The study highlights key risk factors contributing to disease prevalence and underscores the need for targeted public health interventions, improved healthcare access, and preventive measures tailored to specific demographic groups. Future research should incorporate longitudinal data to establish causal relationships and enhance disease mitigation strategies.

Short Description

This study focuses on the distribution of infectious diseases including: respiratory tract infections, gastrointestinal tract infections and dermatological infections. It not only explores the disease’s frequency among different genders and among different age groups, but also provides a thematic analysis of policy recommendations to control the diseases in rural Pakistan
Classifying the severity of diabetic macular oedema from optical coherence tomography scans using deep learning: a feasibility study
Authors: Breathnach Cathal , Harney Fiona , Townley Deirdre , Hickey Rachel , Simpkin Andrew , O’Keeffe Derek
Published: February 2025

Background

Diabetic macular oedema (DME) is a vision-threatening complication of diabetes mellitus. It is reliably detected using optical coherence tomography (OCT). This work evaluates a deep learning system (DLS) for the automated detection and classification of DME severity from OCT images.

Methods

Anonymised OCT images were retrospectively obtained from 950 patients at University Hospital Galway, Ireland. Images were graded by a consultant ophthalmologist to classify the level of DME on a novel scale (Normal, DME not affecting the foveal contour and DME affecting the foveal contour), excluding other pathologies. A DLS was trained using cross-validation, then evaluated on a test dataset and an external dataset. The test set was graded by a second ophthalmologist.

Results

In detecting the presence of DME, the DLS achieved a mean area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.98 on cross-validation. AUCs of 0.94 (95% CI 0.90-0.98) and 0.91 (0.86-0.95) were achieved on evaluation of DME detection for the test dataset when graded by the first and second ophthalmologist respectively. An AUC of 0.94 (0.92-0.96) was achieved on evaluation with the external dataset. When detecting the DME severity, AUCs of 0.97, 0.87 and 0.98 were achieved per class on cross validation. For the test dataset, AUCs of 0.93, 0.83 and 0.97 were achieved when graded by the first ophthalmologist and AUCs of 0.89, 0.75 and 0.96 were achieved when graded by the second ophthalmologist.

Conclusion

This study suggests promising results for the use of deep learning in the classification of severity of DME.
An Efficient and Interpretable Foundation Model for Retinal Image Analysis in Disease Diagnosis
Authors: Dai Wei , Chen Zhen Ji , Yao Yinghao , Chen Yu , Fang Jiyuan , Bai Qingshi , Xu Chuang , Wu Huimin , Ding Huaiyuan , Yang Hui , Zhuo Ran , Zhang Riyan , Yuan Jian , Ye Cong , Wang Hong , Xu Liangde , Yang Yongxin , Yu Xiaoguang , Hospedales Timothy , Qu Jia , Su Jianzhong
Published: February 2025

Artificial intelligence (AI) foundation models for colour fundus photography (CFP) have been extensively studied and demonstrated great potential for advancing ocular and systemic health screening. However, their high computational demands and limited clinical interpretability constrain real-world clinical application. These models rely on self-supervised learning with massive unlabeled datasets to address the scarcity of high-quality annotations, but often generate irrelevant features and fail to improve interpretability due to the absence of medical knowledge integration. Thus, we propose HRVRL, a lightweight, knowledge-prompt foundation model that leverages a novel hierarchical representation learning framework based on retinal biological features. Over 150,000 instances were generated for pretraining through multi-level image augmentation of 267 vascular-labeled images. A progressive learning strategy enables HRVRL to capture retinal-specific features from coarse to fine scales. HRVRL demonstrates remarkable resource efficiency, requiring only 0.04 GB of memory, processing 24 images per second, and completing pretraining within one day using a single GPU. It outperforms existing foundation models in 20 of 24 downstream tasks related to ocular and systemic disease diagnosis and severity grading. HRVRL also offers high clinical interpretability, with quantitative assessments showing strong concordance between model predictions and clinical criteria and outperforming in all 10 tasks. In diabetic retinopathy (DR) analysis, HRVRL achieves superior diagnostic lesion recognition (median accuracy of 0.710 versus 0.1–0.235 for existing models;P< 0.001) and significant improvements in type-specific lesion detection under a zero-shot setting (18-fold for hemorrhages, 4-fold for microaneurysms, hard exudates, and soft exudates;P< 0.001). We demonstrate that HRVRL provides clinically interpretable predictions with transparent decision-making processes for individual cases. In conclusion, HRVRL achieves unprecedented resource efficiency and enhanced clinical interpretability, enabling practical deployment in resource-limited settings to improve ocular and systemic disease diagnosis.
Co-designing age-specific meal plans using locally available foods for under-five children in Tanzania: A human-centered design protocol
Authors: Usiri Aminieli Itaeli , Charles Samson , Mhidze Aneth Gabriel , Kiwelu Jackline Estomihi
Published: February 2025

Background

Infant and young child nutrition is fundamental to individual health and national economic growth. Malnutrition remains a major challenge, particularly in developing countries such as Tanzania. Despite being food-producing regions, Njombe and Iringa continue to experience high rates of undernutrition among children under five, largely due to knowledge gaps and poor feeding practices among caregivers.

Aim

To co-design age-specific meal plans using locally available foods in Njombe and Iringa, Tanzania. Research seeks to develop culturally, and economically feasible meal plans to improve child nutrition in Tanzania.

Methods

A five-step Human centered design approach will be employed: (1)Explorationthrough focus group discussions and key informant interviews to understand caregivers feeding challenges; (2)Co-designto develop meal plans incorporating affordable, locally available; (3)Validation and Refinementthrough focus group discussion and stakeholder feedback; (4)Implementationwith trained Community Health Workers supporting caregivers in the adoption of meal plan; and (5)Evaluationusing qualitative and quantitative methods to assess effectiveness and adoption over a one-year period. A total of 208 participants will be purposefully selected. Thematic analysis will be conducted using NVivo 12 software to identify key challenges caregivers face, facilitators, and locally available and affordable foods to be used in co-design of meal plan.

Expected results

The findings will provide insights about feeding challenges caregivers of under five children faces, meal plan prototypes tested and scaled up if proven successful. Successful implementation of these age specific meal plans, this study anticipates improved caregiver knowledge and practices regarding infant and young child feeding, increased dietary diversity, and enhanced nutritional outcomes among children under five children in Tanzania.
Cross-cohort analysis of expression and splicing quantitative trait loci in TOPMed
Authors: Orchard Peter , Blackwell Thomas W. , Kachuri Linda , Castaldi Peter J. , Cho Michael H. , Christenson Stephanie A. , Durda Peter , Gabriel Stacey , Hersh Craig P. , Huntsman Scott , Hwang Seungyong , Joehanes Roby , Johnson Mari , Li Xingnan , Lin Honghuang , Liu Ching-Ti , Liu Yongmei , Mak Angel C.Y. , Manichaikul Ani W. , Paik David , Saferali Aabida , Smith Joshua D. , Taylor Kent D. , Tracy Russell P. , Wang Jiongming , Wang Mingqiang , Weinstock Joshua S. , Weiss Jeffrey , Wheeler Heather E. , Zhou Ying , Zoellner Sebastian , Wu Joseph C. , Mestroni Luisa , Graw Sharon , Taylor Matthew R.G. , Ortega Victor E. , Johnson Craig W. , Gan Weiniu , Abecasis Goncalo , Nickerson Deborah A. , Gupta Namrata , Ardlie Kristin , Woodruff Prescott G. , Zheng Yinan , Bowler Russell P. , Meyers Deborah A. , Reiner Alex , Kooperberg Charles , Ziv Elad , Ramachandran Vasan S. , Larson Martin G. , Cupples L. Adrienne , Burchard Esteban G. , Silverman Edwin K , Rich Stephen S. , Heard-Costa Nancy , Tang Hua , Rotter Jerome I. , Smith Albert V. , Levy Daniel ,   NHLBI TOPMed Consortium Multi-Omics Working Group,   NHLBI TOPMed Consortium, Aguet François , Scott Laura , Raffield Laura M. , Parker Stephen C.J.
Published: February 2025

Most genetic variants associated with complex traits and diseases occur in non-coding genomic regions and are hypothesized to regulate gene expression. To understand the genetics underlying gene expression variability, we characterize 14,324 ancestrally diverse RNA-sequencing samples from the NHLBI Trans-Omics for Precision Medicine (TOPMed) program and integrate whole genome sequencing data to performcisandtransexpression and splicing quantitative trait locus (cis-/trans-e/sQTL) analyses in six tissues and cell types, most notably whole blood (N=6,454) and lung (N=1,291). We show this dataset enables greater detection of secondary cis-e/sQTL signals than was achieved in previous studies, and that secondary cis-eQTL and primary trans-eQTL signal discovery is not saturated even though eGene discovery is. Most TOPMed trans-eQTL signals colocalize with cis-e/sQTL signals, suggesting many trans signals are mediated by cis signals. We fine-map European UK BioBank GWAS signals from 164 traits and colocalize the resulting 34,107 fine-mapped GWAS signals with TOPMed e/sQTL signals, finding that of 10,611 GWAS signals with a colocalization, 7,096 GWAS signals colocalize with at least one secondary e/sQTL signal. These results demonstrate that larger e/sQTL analyses will continue to uncover secondary e/sQTL signals, and that these new signals will benefit GWAS interpretation.
Neutrophil derived microvesicles induce endothelial cell dysfunction associated with atherosclerotic plaque erosion
Authors: Dow Reece , Card Erin , Gurung Sangam , Evans Paul C. , Ridger Victoria
Published: February 2025

Atherosclerosis is a major cause of death globally. It is characterised by the development of fibro-fatty lesions in the artery wall that can impede blood flow and lead to myocardial infarction. Historically, research has focused primarily on plaque rupture. However, the importance of erosion of the endothelium leading to thrombosis in plaques with lower lipid content, fewer inflammatory cells and a thick fibrous cap has emerged. Neutrophils have recently been implicated in plaque erosion through the induction of endothelial cell dysfunction. Neutrophils produce 0.1-1μm extracellular vesicles (microvesicles) from their cell membrane that are linked with atherosclerotic plaque progression. The hypothesis that neutrophil microvesicles affect plaque erosion through driving endothelial cell dysfunction and platelet adhesion was investigated. Peripheral blood neutrophils and platelets were isolated from healthy subjects and neutrophils stimulated with native LDL to induce microvesicle release. These microvesicles were found to contain proteases capable of degrading extracellular matrix proteins. Incubation of human coronary artery endothelial cells with neutrophil microvesicles lead to an increase in apoptosis and detachment, and a decrease in migration and proliferation in the endothelial cells. Moreover, microvesicles induced an increase in both platelet P-selectin expression and platelet-endothelial cell interaction. This study demonstrates the propensity of neutrophil microvesicles to promote functions within human coronary artery endothelial cells that may predispose the endothelium to erosion and thrombosis and identifies a potential link between a known risk factor for atherosclerosis, elevated LDL cholesterol, and the production of neutrophil microvesicles. These findings highlight the need for further research to better understand the effects of neutrophil microvesicles in atherosclerosis.
Intracellular competition shapes plasmid population dynamics
Authors: Rossine Fernando , Sanchez Carlos , Eaton Daniel , Paulsson Johan , Baym Michael
Published: February 2025

Conflicts between levels of biological organization are central to evolution, from populations of multicellular organisms to selfish genetic elements in microbes. Plasmids are extrachromosomal, self-replicating genetic elements that underlie much of the evolutionary flexibility of bacteria. Evolving plasmids face selective pressures on their hosts, but also compete within the cell for replication, making them an ideal system for studying the joint dynamics of multilevel selection. While theory indicates that within-cell selection should matter for plasmid evolution, experimental measurement of within-cell plasmid fitness and its consequences has remained elusive. Here we measure the within-cell fitness of competing plasmids and characterize drift and selective dynamics. We achieve this by the controlled splitting of synthetic plasmid dimers to create balanced competition experiments. We find that incompatible plasmids co-occur for longer than expected due to methylation-based plasmid eclipsing. During this period of co-occurrence, less transcriptionally active plasmids display a within-cell selective advantage over their competing plasmids, leading to preferential fixation of silent plasmids. When the transcribed gene is beneficial to the cell, for example an antibiotic resistance gene, there is a cell-plasmid fitness tradeoff mediated by the dominance of the beneficial trait. Surprisingly, more dominant plasmid-encoded traits are less likely to fix but more likely to initially invade than less dominant traits. Taken together, our results show that plasmid evolution is driven by dynamics at two levels, with a transient, but critical, contribution of within-cell fitness.
Whole genome characterisation of EnterotoxigenicEscherichia colicirculating in Zambia
Authors: Silwamba Suwilanji , Simuyandi Michelo , Mwape Kapambwe , Luchen Charlie C , Chibesa Kennedy , Chibuye Mwelwa , Mwape Innocent , Liswaniso Fraser , Ngombe Harriet , Chauwa Adriace , Mubanga Cynthia , Dougan Sam , Ojok David , Moono Andrew , Sukwa Nsofwa , Muyoyeta Monde , Chisenga Caroline C , Chilengi Roma , Kwenda Geoffrey , von Mentzer Astrid
Published: February 2025

Background

EnterotoxigenicEscherichia coli(ETEC) is a significant cause of diarrheal disease, particularly in low—and middle-income countries, including Zambia. ETEC pathogenesis is driven by colonisation factors (CF) and enterotoxins, and increasing antimicrobial resistance compounds the global health burden. Despite its impact, limited genomic data exists for ETEC strains in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods

This study conducted whole-genome sequencing of 62 ETEC isolates collected from children under five years old presenting with moderate-to-severe diarrhoea in Lusaka, Zambia. Genomic DNA was extracted, sequenced using the Illumina MiSeq platform, and analysed for phylogenetic relationships, toxin profiles, CF combinations, AMR genes, and plasmid incompatibility groups. Sequences were processed using bioinformatics tools, including SPAdes for genome assembly and Abricate for virulence and AMR profiling.

Results

The isolates displayed diverse phylogenetic groupings, predominantly within phylogroups A (22 isolates) and B1 (29 isolates). Forty-five serotypes and 39 sequence types were identified, with ST155, ST4, and ST847 being most prevalent. 35% of isolates lacked a known CF, but CS6-only stains were the most common (8%). The most frequent toxin profile was LTh (31%); AMR analysis revealed 350 resistance genes, with Sul2 (14%) and blaTEM-1 (10%) being predominant. ∼89% of isolates exhibited genomic multidrug resistance. Plasmid analysis identified IncFII as the most prevalent incompatibility group (19%).

Conclusion

This study highlights the genomic diversity of ETEC in Zambia, revealing concerns about multidrug resistance and identifying virulence profiles. These findings reiterate the urgent need for enhanced surveillance and targeted interventions, including vaccine development, to combat ETEC-related diarrhoea effectively.

Authors Summary

Diarrhoea caused by a bacteria called Escherichia coli is a significant health problem for young children in Zambia and many similar countries. Despite its profound impact, not much is known about the types of ETEC found in Zambia. In this study, we collected this type of bacteria from children under five years old who had diarrhoea and studied them in detail using advanced genetic tools. We discovered that the bacteria are very diverse, with different groups, toxin types, and ways of attaching to the host. Worryingly, most bacteria were resistant to several antibiotics, potentially making treatment challenging. This research helps us understand how ETEC spreads and causes illness in Zambia, showing the urgent need for tracking, improved treatments, and vaccines to protect children from this serious disease.
The relationship between employee engagement practices, voice and mental health: exploring the mediating role of interpersonal justice and empathetic leadership
Authors: Khan Muskan , Kumari Arpana , Jain Ajay K. , Srivastava Shalini
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Little is established about the mechanism through which employee voice is connected to employee mental health. Drawing from social exchange theory, this study examines how employee engagement practices are associated with employee voice, which further influences employee mental health. In addition, the study includes parallel mediation and examines whether perceived interpersonal justice (PIJ) and empathetic leadership (EL) mediate the relationship between employee engagement practices and employee voice.

Design/methodology/approach

Three time-lagged surveys of 457 employees in the Indian information technology (IT) sector were accomplished.

Findings

As hypothesised, employee engagement practices have a positive influence on employee voice. Secondly, employee voice has a positive influence on the employee’s mental health. PIJ and EL were also found to be significant parallel mediators for the relationship among employee engagement practices and employee voice.

Practical implications

This study displays the positive influence of employee engagement practices on employee voice. Further, the employee’s voice influences the employee’s mental health. Therefore, it suggests means for improving its pervasiveness in an organisation.

Originality/value

This research paper is an important contribution as it is one of the few studies examining the role of PIJ and EL as parallel mediators of employee engagement practices and employee voice. It also answers repeated calls for more research on employee mental health in the IT sector.
Towards a career perspective on lifelong development: applying a multiple-stakeholder approach to explore the concept
Authors: Kuijpers Marinka A.C.T. , Draaisma Aniek J. , Semeijn Judith H. , Van der Heijden Beatrice I.J.M.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

In this study, we propose that a contemporary definition of lifelong development, based on scientific literature and qualitative research in 12 Dutch organisations, be applied. This definition integrates several different perspectives on lifelong learning.

Design/methodology/approach

To begin with, a conceptual definition was formulated in collaboration with partners and experts from the field. After that, 34 interviews were conducted consisting of one employee, one manager and one human resource (HR) officer from each participating organisation. This was done using an epistemic interview method.

Findings

From our findings, we conclude that lifelong development is regarded and practised differently by the various respondents; lifelong development is aimed at achieving personal or organisational goals and mutual interests are rarely addressed. However, there seems to be a growing recognition of the importance of integrating the two perspectives.

Originality/value

In order to promote a dialogue regarding stakeholder perspectives, we propose that a definition of lifelong development be applied, one that combines the economic and the more psychological meaning-making perspectives. In doing so, attention should not only be paid to current goals but also to the future goals of individuals and organisations so that future developments can be anticipated. This will then serve as a point of departure for further research and (inter)national, regional and organisational practice.
Connectivity agency in telework: a qualitative analysis of facilitators and barriers
Authors: Booker Luke , Mowbray Paula K , Townsend Keith , Chan Xi Wen
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The well-being of employees in distributed work has never been of more importance. This study aims to investigate the factors that empower or undermine the connectivity agency of teleworkers. Connectivity agency is an important form of autonomy for managing work–home boundaries, recuperation from work and psychological detachment. With this in mind it becomes vital to understand how connectivity agency is shaped by various contextual factors.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative study draws upon data collected from 27 teleworkers representing a variety of industries and roles. We employed a semi-structured interview protocol and analysed the data using Tracy’s (2013) iterative coding technique.

Findings

Factors that influence one’s likelihood or capacity to exercise connectivity agency exist at the individual, group or organisational level. Our data elucidate factors such as the provision of home and technological resources, the state of team norms and shared expectations and the level of organisational (dis)trust as having significant influence on whether a teleworker exercises connectivity agency, or whether attempts to do so fail altogether.

Originality/value

Whilst we have a comprehensive understanding of types of connectivity agency behaviours, it is unclear how one’s agency may be influenced by contextual factors. The originality and key contribution of our study is in enriching our understanding of connectivity agency to appreciate it as a dynamic phenomenon that is shaped by various contextual factors. This presents a variety of important insights for professionals leading, implementing or partaking in distributed work.
Future directions for advancing Green Star NZ to achieve zero-carbon goals: insights from industry professionals
Authors: Liang Jiaxin , Vishnupriya Vishnupriya , Le An , Shen Xiong
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The building industry is a critical sector that must significantly reduce its carbon emissions for New Zealand (NZ) to meet its 2050 zero-carbon goals. Green Star NZ, a leading Green Building Rating System in NZ, offers a structured framework for assessing and certifying building environmental performance. This research investigates industry professionals' perspectives on Green Star NZ’s effectiveness in achieving NZ’s zero-carbon goals, addressing gaps in existing literature.

Design/methodology/approach

Through qualitative analysis of semi-structured interviews, the research identified key areas where Green Star NZ either supports or falls short of zero-carbon practices, according to 22 practising professionals. A thematic analysis method was used to analyse the data.

Findings

The results indicate that while Green Star NZ suits NZ, it faces adoption challenges due to few supportive policies, complex certification and material supply issues with sustainable materials. The study addressed these barriers through targeted policies, streamlined processes and market support for sustainable technologies. Moreover, cost is directly or indirectly tied to Green Star NZ.

Originality/value

This study offers insights and recommendations to improve Green Star NZ, assisting NZGBC and stakeholders in advancing towards a zero-carbon future. Implementing these suggestions can boost Green Star NZ’s effectiveness. Through the project experience and the viewpoints of industry professionals, it fills the research gap by assessing Green Star NZ’s framework, identifying challenges and proposing improvements. The findings also position NZ’s experience as a possible model, advancing global green building practices and providing policymakers with recommendations.
Supply-chain restructuring using the “China-plus-one” strategy: the push–pull–mooring perspective
Authors: Shih Yu-Yuan , Liu Meng-Chun , Lin Chih-An
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The China-plus-one strategy is an increasingly attractive supply chain risk management strategy and has been adopted by many multinational enterprises. However, relevant research remains limited and warrants empirical validation. This paper addresses this research gap by investigating the determinants of emerging multinational enterprises’ adoption of a China-plus-one strategy.

Design/methodology/approach

The China-plus-one adoption decision of 1,527 firms was predicted using a logistic model based on Taiwan’s official data – Investigation of Foreign Sales and Manufacturing, for the years 2020–2022. This database is administered by the Department of Statistics of the Ministry of Economic Affairs (DSMEA) in Taiwan. Analysis was conducted using SPSS 25.0.

Findings

It is suggested that customer pressure and supplier relocation, functioning as push forces, lead to the China-plus-one strategy adopted by Taiwanese firms. Regarding pull forces, lower production cost has a positive association with China-plus-one adoption, whereas sufficient local workforce supply does not have a significant effect. Finally, in terms of the mooring forces, local sales performance is negatively related to the strategy adoption, whereas local access to components shows a positive association with such strategy.

Originality/value

This research uniquely adopts the push–pull–mooring framework to examine factors affecting supply chain restructuring in international business, representing a novel domain for this framework.
Experimental study on characterization of lubrication deterioration under rolling-sliding contact
Authors: Xu Chan , Tong Yunqi , Wu Tonghai
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to characterize the lubrication condition under sliding-rolling contact using three indicators, including the oil film thickness and two perpendicular (vertical and tangential) vibrations. The lubrication deterioration can then be detected when sliding occurs in rolling contact.

Design/methodology/approach

An experimental study is presented to identify the lubrication deterioration under sliding-rolling contact. Sliding-rolling experiments with controlled loads, slip ratios and speeds are carried out on a roller-ring test rig. The deterioration of lubrication condition is analyzed by the transient oil film thickness and two perpendicular vibration signals, respectively.

Findings

The oil film thickness and the vibration signal play different roles in characterizing different lubrication deterioration conditions. Specifically, the degree of lubrication deterioration with slight solid-contact is indicated by the rapid reduction in oil film thickness. The degree of lubrication deterioration with severe solid-contact is reflected by two perpendicular (vertical and tangential) vibrations. Furthermore, the tangential vibration can indicate the occurrence of sliding in rolling contact.

Originality/value

A full characterization of the lubrication deterioration under sliding-rolling contact can be accomplished by integrating both the oil film thickness and two perpendicular vibration monitoring.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-07-2024-0244/
Analysis of the wear performance of with thin flange wheel for high-speed trains
Authors: Wang Daozhong , Yan Xiaoxia , Li Junxin , Liu Yutao
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The wheel wear of high-speed trains is the main concern in the operation process of the high-speed trains. Wheel reprofile usually adopts the thin flange wheel profiles for the economic wheel reprofile strategy; however, the wheel wear evolution law of the thin flange wheel profile is not clear. The purpose of this paper mainly researches the wheel wear evolution law of thin flange wheel profile and the influence factors of thin flange wheel.

Design/methodology/approach

To solve this problem, this paper analyzed the wheel-rail contact relationship and established a vehicle dynamic model of high-speed train. The Jendel wheel wear model was used to analyze the evolution of thin flange wheel wear and rail deviation affecting wheel wear under thin flange wheel profiles.

Findings

Due to the consistency of the tread area, the distribution of wheel-rail contact points for thin flange wheels in the tread area is close. As the wheel flange increases, wheel wear also increases. Thin flange wheel profiles reduce wheel wear to a certain extent. The maximum wheel wear depths with rail deviations of −0.4 mm, 0 mm and 0.4 mm are 0.9844 mm, 1.077 mm and 1.142 mm, respectively. The negative rail deviation suppresses wheel wear, but the positive rail deviation increases wheel wear.

Originality/value

The evolution of wheel wear for thin flange wheels after reprofiling is not clear. This paper analyzed the wear characteristics of thin flange wheel wear and rail deviation affecting wheel wear under thin flange wheels.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-10-2024-0401/
Experimental study on the lubrication and vibration properties of rubber-plastic double-layer bush water-lubricated bearings
Authors: Zhang Xiuli , Gao Wenkai , Cui Jian , Shen Yuankang , Huang Tao , Gao Gengyuan , Cao Jun
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Rubber-plastic double-layer bush water-lubricated bearings have demonstrated superior performance, while research on their vibration characteristics remains limited. This paper aims to investigate the lubrication and vibration properties of these bearings by experiments and examine the effect of rubber-to-plastic bush thickness ratio on bearing performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A water-lubricated journal bearing test rig is constructed, and three bearings with different bush thickness ratios are fabricated. Bush deformation under various loads is measured, and the friction coefficient and axis trajectory under different operating conditions are tested. The vibration responses of the bearings under directional harmonic excitation are studied. The influences of rotational speed, load and rubber-to-plastic bush thickness ratio on the bearing’s lubrication and vibration properties are analyzed.

Findings

The friction coefficient of the bearing initially decreases rapidly and subsequently increases gradually as the rotational speed or load increases. The bearing with a thicker rubber bush shows lower displacement amplitudes in its axis trajectory. Under a 45° directed excitation, significant oscillations are observed in the vertical displacement, while the horizontal displacement remains stable. The damping effect of the bearing with a thicker rubber bush is more pronounced.

Originality/value

This paper present the influence of rubber-to-plastic bush thickness ratio on bearing lubrication and vibration performance. The results are valuable for the design of this type of bearing.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-12-2024-0469/
Citizens’ acceptance and use of e-government services in Tunisia: a UTAUT2-based approach
Authors: Nasri Wadie
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the influence of key factors of unified theory of acceptance and use of technology model 2 (UTAUT2) on the behavioral intention (BI) to accept and use of e-government services in Tunisia.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was conducted out with a sample of 203 participants. Confirmatory factor analysis was employed to evaluate the validity of the model, and Structural equation modeling was utilized to test the research hypotheses.

Findings

The results indicated that performance expectancy was the most significant predictor of the intention to accept and use e-government services. Facilitating conditions, social influence, effort expectancy and habit had a positive influence on BI to accept and use of e-government services. However, hedonic motivation and price value do not have a significant effect on BI to accept and use of e-government services. It was also found that BI to use e-government services had a significant influence on the actual use of e-government sites.

Practical implications

The proposed model can be used as a guideline for e-government strategy formulation and implementation for the Tunisian Government.

Originality/value

This paper is among the first to investigate e-government services adoption in Tunisia using the UTAUT2 model.
Digital information consumption, democratic context, perceived corruption and political trust: a global examination
Authors: Daoudi Omar , Gainous Jason , Wagner Kevin , Buckles Grant
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study explores how digital information consumption and perceptions of corruption affect trust in government, shaped by country-level democratic context. We argue that in less democratic countries, the Internet increases access to political corruption news, impacting trust in government.

Design/methodology/approach

Using Varieties of Democracy Institute (V-Dem) principles (liberal, participatory, deliberative, egalitarian), we analyze digital information consumption in 128 countries with Gallup data.

Findings

Participatory democracy strongly moderates the negative relationship between digital consumption and trust, especially in moderate democracies with high perceived corruption.

Social implications

Digital information’s effect on trust depends on government type and existing confidence levels.

Originality/value

This study uses data from 128 countries, enabling broad inferences about digital communication’s consequences. It also provides a novel examination of the relationship between digital information consumption, perceived corruption and attitudes towards government.
Introduction: the development of health tourism in challenging times – a focus on the Visegrád countries
Authors: Dryglas Diana , Smith Melanie Kay
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This article provides the background to the topic being addressed in this issue: how to manage the development of health tourism in challenging times in the Visegrád countries. This introduction provides an overview of the current situation in the region, as well as summarizes the articles written in response to the main question.

Design/methodology/approach

This article provides a context for the research, explaining the historical and geographical background for the four countries in question. The information is based on secondary data derived from academic literature as well as professional research studies.

Findings

The findings shed light on the current trends, opportunities and challenges in the development of health tourism in the Visegrád countries. The information presents new insights into the factors influencing the growth of the industry, the impact of changing consumer preferences and the role of stakeholders in shaping the future of health tourism in the region. The findings highlight best practices and successful strategies for managing the development of health tourism in challenging times.

Originality/value

This theme issue contributes to the existing literature on health tourism by focusing specifically on the Visegrád countries, a region that has received relatively little attention in previous research. By exploring this unique region, researchers will be able to identify key trends and challenges that are specific to these countries, and develop innovative strategies for managing the development of health tourism in this context. The findings of this theme issue have practical implications for policymakers and industry stakeholders looking to navigate the evolving landscape of health tourism in the Visegrád countries.
Moderate milling improved storage stability of quinoa based on the evaluation of lipid oxidation and physicochemical characteristics
Authors: Ni Danfeng , Gao Feng , Cao Hongwei , Song Hongdong , Huang Kai , Zhang Yu , Wang Xiaoxue , Tan Zhigang , Lu Jun , Guan Xiao , Grim Nabil
Published: February 2025

This study investigated the storage stability of quinoa across various milling degrees (MD) concerning lipid oxidation and physicochemical characteristics during different storage durations. The process of milling induced tissue disruption, potentially facilitating contact between internal components and air, thereby impacting the storage stability of quinoa. The findings highlighted that cooking quality and textural properties exhibited a more pronounced improvement from MD 19% to MD 27% over a 6 M storage period. Notably, peak viscosity demonstrated a negative correlation with springiness and a positive correlation with water absorption of milled quinoa throughout storage. Thermal property analysis indicated that the increase of storage time and the decomposition of fatty acids triggered heat release, consequently reducing the enthalpy (ΔH) in milled quinoa. Scanning electron microscopy further exposed the oxidation of lipids in quinoa with varying MD during storage. In contrast to quinoa with higher degrees of milling, quinoa with MD 19% showcased superior textural characteristics and enhanced storage stability.
Sustainable protein concentrate from Cannabis sativa L. seeds: Green chemistry and new functional concentrates for the alternative protein industry
Authors: Presa‐Lombardi Joaquín , Sallé Leonardo , Gutierrez‐Barrutia Maria Belen , Cozzano Sonia
Published: February 2025

This research focused on developing a hemp protein concentrate through a potential sustainable method, with nutritional and industrial value for the emerging alternative protein industry. By response surface methodology, the optimal processing conditions (100% ethanol, 50°C, and 10% w/v solid‐to‐solvents ratio) resulted in a hemp protein concentrate with 68.61% ± 1.71% protein. The process had a protein yield value of 94.11% ± 4.45%, which aligns with current sustainable food processing trends and is an excellent value compared to traditional methods for hemp seeds. The concentrate met nutritional quality criteria for most examined parameters and showed positive results regarding essential amino acids absorption through in vitro digestion compared to nonessential amino acids. Furthermore, its techno‐functional properties, particularly oil‐holding capacity, emulsification properties, and gelling qualities achieved commercial standards. This research validates the potential for producing new protein concentrates from dehulled hemp seeds through an innovative green chemistry‐based method.

Practical Application

The research presents a method based on green chemistry for the obtention of hemp protein concentrate from hemp seeds. Hemp seeds are not considered a “novel food” according to the European Commission. Hemp protein concentrate had 95% protein yield and similar or better functional properties compared to commercial proteins. Thus, hemp protein is an important product for food industry applications.
Chronic binge alcohol dysregulates omental adipose tissue extracellular matrix in simian immunodeficiency virus‐infected macaques
Authors: Poret Jonquil M. , Simon Liz , Molina Patricia E.
Published: February 2025

Background

Increased survival, prolonged antiretroviral treatment (ART), and lifestyle choices, including alcohol misuse, increase the risk for comorbid conditions, including cardiometabolic comorbidities among people with HIV (PWH). Published studies indicate that dysregulated adipose tissue phenotype, particularly of the visceral adipose depot, contributes to metabolic dysregulation. Using a nonhuman primate model of simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infection, we previously demonstrated that chronic binge alcohol (CBA) administration to ART‐treated rhesus macaques decreases whole‐body glucose‐insulin dynamics, increases omental adipose tissue (OmAT) collagen content, decreases OmAT adipocyte size, and alters pancreatic endocrine function. The objective of this study was to delineate the depot‐specific effects of CBA on visceral (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) extracellular matrix (ECM) phenotype, the potential mechanisms involved in AT ECM remodeling, and the implications of increased tissue stiffness on AT metabolic alterations in female SIV‐infected macaques.

Methods

Omental and subcutaneous adipose samples were obtained from female SIV‐infected, ART‐treated macaques that received intragastric administration of CBA (12–15 g/kg/week, CBA/SIV) or water (VEH/SIV) for 14.5 months.

Results

CBA preferentially altered the ECM phenotype in OmAT, a VAT depot. The CBA‐associated changes included increased ECM accumulation, increased collagen I–III ratio, a profibrotic milieu, and decreased matrix metalloproteinase 13 activity. These changes were associated with smaller adipocyte size, decreased triglyceride content, decreased gene expression of perilipins, and a potential dysregulation of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma signaling.

Conclusions

Collectively, these findings suggest that CBA‐mediated ECM remodeling “traps” adipocytes within a stiff environment that we propose disrupts adipocyte metabolic programming and may increase the risk for metabolic comorbidities.
Crash Course in Conservation: Predicting and Mitigating Wildlife–Vehicle Collisions in a Savannah Area
Authors: Mukomberanwa Nobert Tafadzwa , Ngorima Patmore
Published: February 2025

Temporal patterns in wildlife–vehicle collisions (WVCs) correspond with animal behaviour and biology, predominantly occurring during breeding and dispersion seasons, as well as daily foraging and resting activities of animals. As a result, diverse taxonomic groups worldwide are affected by vehicle collisions, including reptiles, amphibians, mammals and birds. Ecologically, WVC results in population declines and can differentially affect animal populations. Yet, monitoring biodiversity and examining the factors influencing its alterations enable society to make informed decisions on conservation and enhance the management of human–wildlife conflicts. Effective mitigation techniques necessitate knowledge about the location and timing of traffic casualties involving wildlife. The objectives of this study were as follows: (i) to analyse the trends in WVC and (ii) to forecast future scenarios of WVC in the Hurungwe Safari Area (HSA), located in the Mid Zambezi Valley, Zimbabwe. The study aims to develop evidence‐based strategies tailored to the local context and feasibility for reducing WVC frequency and severity. We used WVC data for 22 different species collected by the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZPWMA), Marongora Field Station. This study performed a trend analysis and then forecast future WVC using time series methods. We used K‐means to determine clusters in the species data. Time series forecasting was performed using the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA), a popular statistical method used for time series forecasting. Our results indicated an exponential growth in the number of WVC for some animal species, that is, civet, buffalo, hyena and waterbuck by the year 2030. Modelling trends in WVC is important for protecting wildlife, enhancing road safety and reducing economic costs. It informs conservation efforts, guides effective management strategies like wildlife crossings, and raises public awareness about the impact of driving on ecosystems. This data ultimately promotes coexistence between humans and wildlife.
Close encounters: Interpersonal proximity amplifies social appraisals
Authors: Veranic Kristina , Bayliss Andrew P. , Zhao Mintao , Stephen Ian D. , Ewing Louise
Published: February 2025

Social appraisals reflect the rapid integration of available perceptual information with broader contextual factors (e.g., intentions). While interpersonal distance affects both information availability and social context, how it changes trait impressions remains unknown. Over four experiments, we used a novel paradigm to address this question. In Experiment 1, we assessed participants' attributions of attractiveness, competence, dominance and trustworthiness of life size full body images of people when they appeared at near (1 m) and far (4 m) distances. Proximity amplified the relative magnitude of both positive and negative socio‐evaluative impressions. However, this effect of proximity leading to more extreme positive or negative ratings was selectively weaker for aesthetic (attractiveness) judgements. In Experiment 2 (size) and Experiment 3 (spatial frequency), we held distance constant while manipulating visual cues relating to implied distance, revealing broadly similar results to Experiment 1. In Experiment 4, we used the interpersonal comfort distance paradigm to confirm that our life‐sized projected images elicited similar comfort distance to interacting with a real person, helping to validate our general approach. These findings demonstrate the crucial role of interpersonal distance in impression judgements.
Impact of income position information on perceived tax burden and preference for redistribution: An online survey
Authors: Yamamura Eiji
Published: February 2025

Many experimental studies have assessed the relationship between the provision of information on relative income and redistribution preferences. However, the influence of information on perceived tax burden, which is considered a subjective cost of redistribution, has not been examined. This study investigates how individuals' relative income positions influence their income redistribution preferences and individual perceptions of the income tax burden. This study was conducted using a customized online survey. First, I asked respondents about their perceived income position in their country, redistribution preference and perceived tax burden. In the follow‐up survey, I provided the treatment group with information on their true income positions based on the same questions as in the first survey. However, for the control group, I did not disclose their true income positions but asked them the same questions. The key findings suggest that, after learning their real income positions: (i) individuals who overestimated their income positions perceived their tax burden as higher, (ii) individuals' redistribution preferences had hardly changed and (iii) reciprocal individuals (who accounted for the largest proportion) perceived their tax burden as lower and were less likely to prefer redistribution.