bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Turbidity and Habitat Complexity on the Foraging Behavior of the Black Bullhead (Ameiurus melas)
Authors: Preiszner Bálint , Szolnoki Anna , Czeglédi István , Erős Tibor
Published: February 2024

The role of vertebrate scavengers in nutrient flow of aquatic ecosystems has recently been emphasized. Evidence is accumulating that scavenging is an alternative tactic for certain predatory fish, but their foraging choices between scavenging and predation under varying environmental conditions have not been studied. In this experiment, we presented black bullheads,Ameiurus melas(Rafinesque, 1820), with both live and carcass prey of tubenose gobies,Proterorhinus semilunaris(Heckel, 1837), in aquaria with varying levels of turbidity and habitat complexity. Our findings revealed that black bullheads exhibit higher consumption of carcass prey in complex habitat and clear water condition. We also provide evidence of the active predatory behavior displayed by black bullheads, as a greater consumption of live prey was observed in simple habitat and turbid water. We did not find any relationship between individual exploratory behavior and the choice between carcass and live prey in black bullheads. Our results suggest that the choice between scavenging versus predatory foraging strategy under varying environmental conditions is influenced by the behavior of both consumer and prey. The ability of black bullheads to adapt their foraging strategy in different environments may contribute to their widespread success as an invasive species.
Reverse engineering placebo analgesia
Authors: Chen Bin , Goldstein Nitsan , Dziubek Julia , Zhao Shengli , Harrahill Andrew , Sundai Akili , Choi Seonmi , Prevosto Vincent , Wang Fan
Published: February 2024

Placebo analgesia is a widely observed clinical phenomenon. Establishing a robust mouse model of placebo analgesia is needed for careful dissection of the underpinning circuit mechanisms. However, previous studies failed to observe consistent placebo effects in rodent models of chronic pain. We wondered whether strong placebo analgesia can be reverse engineered using general anesthesia-activated neurons in the central amygdala (CeAGA) that can potently suppress pain. Indeed, in both acute and chronic pain models, pairing a context with CeAGA-mediated pain relief produced robust context-dependent analgesia, exceeding that induced by morphine in the same paradigm. We reasoned that if the analgesic effect was dependent on reactivation of CeAGAneurons by conditioned contextual cues, the analgesia would still be an active treatment, rather than a placebo effect. CeAGAneurons indeed receive monosynaptic inputs from temporal lobe areas that could potentially relay contextual cues directly to CeAGA. However, in vivo imaging showed that CeAGAneurons werenotre-activated in the conditioned context, despite mice displaying a strong analgesic phenotype, supporting the notion that the cue-induced pain relief is true placebo analgesia. Our results show that conditioning with activation of a central pain-suppressing circuit is sufficient to engineer placebo analgesia, and that purposefully linking a context with an active treatment could be a means to harness the power of placebo for pain relief.
Scattering of high-energy positively charged particles in ultrashort oriented silicon crystal
Authors: Shulga S. N. , Kyryllin I. V. , Shul’ga N. F.
Published: February 2024

In this work, the process of scattering of high-energy positively charged particles in the field of atomic planes of an ultrashort silicon crystal was studied. In the parabolic potential approximation of atomic planes, analytical expressions are found for the dependence of the coordinates and velocities of particles in a crystal on time and initial conditions. The relationship between the particle incidence angle on the crystal and its deflection angle has also been determined. It is shown that, under certain conditions, a beam can be split by an ultrashort crystal into two beams diverging at an angle equal to twice the angle of planar channeling.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Mental health and obesity
Authors: Kesavayuth Dusanee , Zikos Vasileios
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Obesity is a significant public health issue. With obesity increasing worldwide, risk factors for obesity need to be better understood and require careful examination. This study aims to examine mental health as a risk factor for obesity using longitudinal data from Australia.

Design/methodology/approach

The main identification strategy relies on the recent death of a close friend and a serious injury or illness to a family member as exogenous shocks to mental health.

Findings

The authors’ preferred estimates, which account for the endogeneity of mental health, suggest that mental health has a significant negative impact on obesity. This result proves to be robust to a suite of sensitivity checks. Further investigations reveal that poor mental health leads to increased smoking, which also has an effect on obesity.

Originality/value

The study’s findings provide a new perspective on how good mental health helps curb obesity.
Toward recognizing characteristics of women’s entrepreneurial intelligence: a comparative study
Authors: Amini Alireza , Hoseini Seyyedeh Shima , Haqbin Arash , Shahin Vahideh
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Recognizing women’s potential and directing their talents to realize these potentials can be of great benefit. Accordingly, this paper aims to identify the characteristics of entrepreneurial intelligence in female entrepreneurs, drawing on a national-level study and the international literature on this topic.

Design/methodology/approach

The present paper conducted two studies. First, 15 female entrepreneurs in the Guilan province of Iran, who were selected using purposive sampling, were interviewed to identify the characteristics of entrepreneurial intelligence nationally. The data gathered by interviews were analyzed using inductive content analysis. Then, their validity was tested using qualitative validation and analyzed using Shannon entropy. In the second study, the characteristics of female entrepreneurial intelligence were identified through a qualitative metasynthesis. The results of the two studies were compared together.

Findings

This categorized entrepreneurial intelligence into six categories, namely, entrepreneurial insights, cognitive intelligence, social intelligence, intuitive intelligence, presumptuous intelligence and provocative intelligence. Ultimately the characteristics of women’s entrepreneurial intelligence in each category were compared according to the national-level study and the international literature.

Originality/value

This study has the potential to discover credible and robust approaches for further examining the contextualization of women’s entrepreneurial intelligence at both national and international levels, thereby advancing new insights. By conceptualizing various dimensions of entrepreneurial intelligence for the first time and exploring how contextual factors differ across nations and internationally for women’s entrepreneurship, this paper challenges the assumption that the characteristics of women’s entrepreneurial intelligence are uniform across the world.
Using the “most significant change” technique to evaluate the teaching competence and psycho-emotional development of prospective teachers during the teaching practicum
Authors: Koukounaras-Liagkis Marios , Karavas Evdokia , Papaioannou Manolis
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This paper presents the results of empirical research on the effects of teaching practice on student teachers’ teaching competence and psycho-emotional development using the “most significant change” narrative investigative technique.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a qualitative research approach, the study was conducted during the academic year 2021–2022 in two phases (January and May) with the participation of 73 student teachers of the Department of Theology at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA) during their mentored teaching practice. Student teachers’ narratives were collected and analysed using the most significant change technique (Davies and Dart, 2005). Content analysis was conducted with the contribution of seven independent judges.

Findings

The results indicate that the Teaching Practice course with the guidance of mentors has a direct and positive effect on student teachers’ teaching competence. Mentors also seem to have a positive effect on student teachers’ psycho-emotional development. The research also confirms the reliability of the most significant change narrative technique for investigating the effect of related educational interventions.

Originality/value

The study empirically validates the usefulness and potential of the investigative narrative most significant change technique for evaluating the effects of teaching practice on student teachers’ professional development with the guidance of experienced mentor teachers. The results of the study also have implications for the design and evaluation of teacher practice programmes.
Pakistani public sector employees burning with a low blue flame: a case of expanded attribution-emotion model of workplace aggression about perceived organizational obstruction and job neglect
Authors: Arif Sania , Al Hassan Sidrah
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Employees of Pakistani public sector organizations feel thwarted toward their goal attainment because of strict adherence to rules and regulations and tall hierarchies existing in this region. Therefore, keeping in view the harmful effects of perceived organizational obstruction, the aim of the current study was to investigate the perceived organizational obstruction as an attribution that triggers job neglect through perceived organizational frustration. Harvey’s expanded attribution-emotion model of workplace aggression and an attributional perspective on workplace aggression provide the theoretical justification. Moreover, the moderating role of self-control was proposed to mitigate the indirect effect of organizational obstruction on job neglect through perceived organizational frustration.

Design/methodology/approach

A three-wave data collection was done by using a close-ended questionnaire distributed to a total of 600 administrative employees of public sector organizations operating in Rawalpindi/Islamabad (Pakistan). However, matching three times and discarding the incomplete questionnaires led to a sample of 375 on which the analysis was done.

Findings

Perceived organizational obstruction positively predicted job neglect. Likewise, organizational frustration mediated the aforementioned link. Moreover, the higher level of self-control weakens this underlying process by suppressing job neglect behavior.

Originality/value

The current study added to the limited literature on public sector organizations that has taken perceived organizational obstruction as a predictor variable. Moreover, this study explains how this phenomenon translates into non-hostile behavior that is difficult to identify and punish in public sector organizations. Moreover, the trait of self-control is added to the literature of non-hostile behaviors that dampen the impulsivity to indulge in job neglect.
Comparative analysis of accounting standards in the Islamic banking industry: a focus on financial leasing
Authors: Morshed Amer
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate Islamic bank compliance with the accounting and auditing organisation for Islamic financial institutions (AAOIFI), assess the impact of multiple accounting standards in Islamic banking, examine the need for private accounting standards and assess international financial reporting standards (IFRS) compatibility with Islamic banking and analyse financial leasing accounting in Islamic banking compared to IFRS 16.

Design/methodology/approach

A combination of comparative theoretical analysis, physical examination, and semi-structured interviews has been used as a research methodology. These methods are interconnected and complement each other to provide a comprehensive approach to address the research questions.

Findings

Islamic banks in various countries show varying compliance with AAOIFI accounting standards. Some fully comply, while others adopt a hybrid approach combining AAOIFI and IFRS. Differences in accounting treatments can result in conflicts, asset inflation and financial statement discrepancies. Challenges and criticisms faced by AAOIFI standards include violating the matching principle and lacking faithful representation. Collaboration among academics, standards-setting bodies and organisers is crucial for guiding the reporting of Islamic financial statements.

Practical implications

The research identifies gaps in implementing Islamic accounting standards and proposes strategies to enhance compliance, improve performance and increase transparency in Islamic financial institutions. It highlights the importance of a harmonised and universally accepted accounting framework for Islamic banking, considering the compatibility between IFRS and Islamic principles.

Social implications

Social implications have arisen regarding the global acceptance of Islamic finance, which leads to an increase in socially Islamic finance exchange.

Originality/value

This research examines the consequences of using multiple accounting standards in the Islamic banking industry and discusses the need for private accounting standards and compatibility with IFRS.
Resiliency of manufacturing systems in the Industry 4.0 era – a systematic literature review
Authors: El-Breshy Sara , Elhabashy Ahmad E. , Fors Hadi , Harfoush Asmaa
Published: February 2024

Purpose

With the emergence of the different Industry 4.0 technologies and the interconnectedness between the physical and cyber components within manufacturing systems, the manufacturing environment is becoming more susceptible to unexpected disruptions, and manufacturing systems need to be even more resilient than before. Hence, the purpose of this work is to explore how does incorporating Industry 4.0 into current manufacturing systems affects (positively or negatively) its resiliency.

Design/methodology/approach

A Systematic Literature Review (SLR) was performed with a focus on studying the manufacturing system’s resilience when applying Industry 4.0 technologies. The SLR is composed of four phases, which are (1) questions formulation, (2) determining an adequate search strategy, (3) publications filtering and (4) analysis and interpretation.

Findings

From the SLR results’ analysis, four potential research opportunities are proposed related to conducting additional research within the research themes in this field, considering less studied Industry 4.0 technologies or more than one technology, investigating the impact of some technologies on manufacturing system’s resilience, exploring more avenues to incorporate resiliency to preserve the state of the system, and suggesting metrics to quantify the resilience of manufacturing systems.

Originality/value

Although there are a number of publications discussing the resiliency of manufacturing systems, none fully investigated this topic when different Industry 4.0 technologies have been considered. In addition to determining the current research state-of-art in this relatively new research area and identifying potential future research opportunities, the main value of this work is in providing insights about this research area across three different perspectives/streams: (1) Industry 4.0 technologies, (2) resiliency and (3) manufacturing systems and their intersections.
Level of awareness and knowledge of procurement officers on environmental sustainability as enshrined in the Public Procurement Act in Ghana
Authors: Ansere Benedict , Ayarkwa Joshua , Addy Michael Nii , Osei-Asibey Dickson , Abu Ivy Maame
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aims to assess the awareness and knowledge level of procurement officers (POs) in Ghanaian tertiary educational institutions regarding sustainability in general and specifically on environmental sustainability in the Public Procurement Act 2003 (Act 663) as amended.

Design/methodology/approach

Through purposive sampling technique and face-to-face interviews using semi-structured open-ended questions, qualitative data was collected from 19 POs who are well vested in the procurement profession and willingly agreed to partake in the research. The qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis technique to help organize and elicit meaning from the data collected and to draw realistic conclusions from it.

Findings

The results showed that most POs were aware of the Public Procurement Act 2003 (Act 663) as amended, primarily through seminars and workshops organized by the Public Procurement Authority. The interviewees demonstrated a good understanding of sustainable procurement, considering its social, environmental and economic aspects. However, one respondent primarily associated sustainability with only environmental issues. The POs were, however, of the view that the Amended Act 914 (2016) does not give detailed highlights on environmental sustainability, making implementation very difficult, especially regarding the procurement of goods. Overall, the findings indicate a positive level of environmental sustainability awareness and knowledge among the interviewed POs regarding the Public Procurement Act 2003 (Act 663) as amended.

Social implications

The findings from the study could be used by policymakers to strategize educational campaigns by using the POs’ knowledge and awareness to the implementers of Act 663 (2003) as amended to effectively ensure environmental sustainability in procurement practices. The findings from the study have also contributed to the literature on procurement policy by drawing the attention of policy formulators to give equal attention to all the sustainability pillars, i.e. social, economic and environmental. This would consequently help the implementers to contribute to achieving sustainable development.

Originality/value

This study is one of the few empirical qualitative types of research seeking the views of POs in tertiary educational institutions in Ghana on sustainability and environmental sustainability as enshrined in the Public Procurement Act 2003 (Act 663) as amended. The findings give positive feedback to policymakers on the knowledge and awareness level of the POs on environmental sustainability and highlight the importance of awareness programmes and educational initiatives by the Public Procurement Authority and other stakeholders to ensure compliance with the Act.
The application of artificial intelligence in waste management: understanding the potential of data-driven approaches for the circular economy paradigm
Authors: Lanzalonga Federico , Marseglia Roberto , Irace Alberto , Biancone Paolo Pietro
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Our study examines how artificial intelligence (AI) can enhance decision-making processes to promote circular economy practices within the utility sector.

Design/methodology/approach

A unique case study of Alia Servizi Ambientali Spa, an Italian multi-utility company using AI for waste management, is analyzed using the Gioia method and semi-structured interviews.

Findings

Our study discovers the proactive role of the user in waste management processes, the importance of economic incentives to increase the usefulness of the technology and the role of AI in waste management transformation processes (e.g. glass waste).

Originality/value

The present study enhances the circular economy model (transformation, distribution and recovery), uncovering AI’s role in waste management. Finally, we inspire managers with algorithms used for data-driven decisions.
Disclosing antecedents of consumers' materialistic and green values conflict: an exploratory study
Authors: Markauskaitė Rita , Rūtelionė Aušra
Published: February 2024

Purpose

It is known that a conflict exists between consumers’ materialistic and green values. Previous research has focused on values conflict consequences. Antecedents of consumers’ materialistic and green values conflict remain understudied. This study aims to explore the antecedents of consumers’ materialistic and green values conflict.

Design/methodology/approach

An exploratory type research design was applied. Overall 22 interviews were conducted with consumers that had materialistic and green values conflict. The transcripts of the interviews were analyzed using content analysis with Maxqda software.

Findings

The findings demonstrate consumers' negative attitudes towards consumption, understood as consumerism. Results indicate that value conflict is related to unpleasant emotions such as guilt, anxiety, helplessness and remorse. Guilt is the most prominent emotion associated with the conflict of values. The study identifies dissonant information, environmental knowledge, social norms, impulsive buying and mindfulness as antecedents of materialistic and green values conflict.

Originality/value

The novelty of the study is the antecedents of the materialistic and green values conflict. This study makes a valuable contribution to the academic discourse on sustainable consumption, consumer materialism and green values by providing a deeper understanding of the values conflict experienced by consumers who hold materialistic and green values. The main significance of this study is that it provides valuable insights from qualitative research into the antecedents of the conflict between consumers' materialistic and green values.
Epidemiological analysis of the patients with psoriasis in Asian countries and region using the same clinical case cards between 2020 and 2022
Authors: Tokuyama Michio , Fan Pingshen , Wang Gang , Choe Yong Beom , Song Hae Jun , Tsai Dino , Sindhvananda Jirot , Mabuchi Tomotaka , Ozawa Akira ,   the Investigative Team of the Asian Society for Psoriasis
Published: February 2024

Although many epidemiological surveys for patients with psoriasis have been reported based on individual countries or facilities, there has been no study encompassing the major countries or the region in Asia. The Asian Society for Psoriasis (ASP) has been conducting an epidemiological study across various Asian countries and regions to elucidate the and compare the epidemiology of psoriasis. A total of 1948 cases were analyzed, with 938 cases from Japan, 530 cases from China, 325 cases from Korea, 141 cases from Chinese Taipei, and 14 cases from Thailand, all of which were enrolled between 2020 and 2022. In the Asian region total, the male–female ratio was 1.87:1 and the peak age at disease onset was 20–29 years. The proportion of psoriasis vulgaris (PsV), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), and pustular psoriasis (PP) was 80.1%, 17.7%, and 2.2%, respectively, and PsA was more commonly associated with nail symptoms than psoriasis vulgaris (PsV). Of the patients, 13% had a familial history of psoriasis and the most frequently affected family member was the father. Regarding treatment, 78.3% of the patients received topical medications, 9.0% underwent phototherapy, 34.0% received oral medications, and 36.1% were treated with biological agents. This study provided valuable information on the epidemiology and treatment of psoriasis using the registry data collected with the common reporting form in the same period in major Asian countries and regions. Male predominance is a distinctive feature of psoriasis in Asia. This epidemiological data registry in the ASP will continue afterwards.
The contribution of suicide to maternal mortality: A nationwide population‐based cohort study
Authors: Lommerse Kinke M. , Mérelle Saskia , Rietveld Anna L. , Berkelmans Guus , van den Akker Thomas ,   The Netherlands Audit Committee Maternal Mortality and Morbidity
Published: February 2024

Objective

To identify the incidence and characteristics of maternal suicide.

Design

Nationwide population‐based cohort study.

Setting

The Netherlands, 2006–2020.

Population

Women who died during pregnancy or within 1 year postpartum, and a reference population of women aged 25–45 years.

Methods

The Cause of Death Register and Medical Birth Register were linked to identify women who died within 1 year postpartum. Data were combined with deaths reported to the Audit Committee for Maternal Mortality and Morbidity (ACMMM), which performs confidential enquiries. Maternal suicides were compared with a previous period (1996–2005). Risk factors were obtained by combining vital statistics databases.

Main outcome measures

Comparison of incidence and proportion of maternal suicides among all maternal deaths over time, sociodemographic and patient‐related risk factors and underreporting of postpartum suicides.

Results

The maternal suicide rate remained stable with 68 deaths: 2.6 per 100 000 live births in 2006–2020 versus 2.5 per 100 000 in 1996–2005. The proportion of suicides among all maternal deaths increased from 18% to 28%. Most suicides occurred throughout the first year postpartum (64/68); 34 (53%) of the women who died by suicide postpartum were primiparous. Compared with mid‐level, low educational level was a risk factor (odds ratio 4.2, 95% confidence interval 2.3–7.9). Of 20 women reported to the ACMMM, 11 (55%) had a psychiatric history and 13 (65%) were in psychiatric treatment at the time of death. Underreporting to ACMMM was 78%.

Conclusions

Although the overall maternal mortality ratio declined, maternal suicides did not and are now the leading cause of maternal mortality if late deaths up to 1 year postpartum are included. Data collection and analysis of suicides must improve.
The coming future: The role of the oral–microbiota–brain axis in aroma release and perception
Authors: Xi Yu , Yu Meihong , Li Xuejie , Zeng Xiangquan , Li Jian
Published: February 2024

The field of aroma release and perception during the oral process has been well studied. However, the traditional approaches have not fully explored the integration of oral biology, microbiology, and neurology to further understand aroma release and perception mechanisms. Herein, to address the existing challenges in this field, we introduce the oral–microbiota–brain axis (OMBA), an innovative framework that encapsulates the interactive relationships among saliva and the oral mucosa, the oral microbiota, and the brain in aroma release and perception. This review introduces the OMBA and highlights its role as a key interface facilitating the sensory experience of aroma. Based on a comprehensive literature survey, the specific roles of the oral mucosa, oral microbiota, saliva, and brain in the OMBA are discussed. This integrated approach reveals the importance of each component and the interconnected relationships within this axis in the overall process of aroma release and perception. Saliva and the oral mucosa play fundamental roles in aroma release and perception; the oral microbiota regulates aroma release and impacts olfactory perception; and the brain's intricate neural circuitry is central to the decoding and interpretation of aroma signals. The components of this axis are interdependent, and imbalances can disrupt aroma perception. The OMBA framework not only enhances our comprehension of aroma release and perception but also paves the way for innovative applications that could heighten sensory experiences.
Effectiveness and safety of Moluodan in the treatment of precancerous lesions of gastric cancer: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Zou Tian Hui , Gao Qin Yan , Liu Si De , Li Yan Qing , Meng Xiang Jun , Zhang Guo Xin , Tian Zi Bin , Zou Xiao Ping , He Song , Hou Xiao Hua , Lin Rong , Li Jing Nan , Zhou Zhong Yin , Li Yan , Wang Meng Chun , Wang Bang Mao , Tian De An , Chen Shu Jie , Cao Qian , Li Liang Ping , Wang Zhi Rong , Shen Xi Zhong , Liu Bing Rong , Yan Xiao Yan , Chen Ying Xuan , Fang Jing‐Yuan
Published: February 2024

Objective

To investigate the clinical potential and safety of Moluodan to reverse gastric precancerous lesions.

Methods

Patients aged 18–70 years diagnosed with moderate‐to‐severe atrophy and/or moderate‐to‐severe intestinal metaplasia, with or without low‐grade dysplasia, and negative for Helicobacter pylori were recruited in this randomized, double‐blind, parallel‐controlled trial. The primary outcome was the improvement of global histological diagnosis at 1‐year follow‐up endoscopy using the operative link for gastritis assessment, the operative link for gastric intestinal metaplasia assessment, and the disappearance rate of dysplasia.

Results

Between November 3, 2017 and January 27, 2021, 166 subjects were randomly assigned to the Moluodan group, 168 to the folic acid group, 84 to the combination group, and 84 to the high‐dose Moluodan group. The improvement in global histological diagnosis was achieved in 60 (39.5%) subjects receiving Moluodan, 59 (37.8%) receiving folic acid, 26 (32.1%) receiving the combined drugs, and 36 (47.4%) receiving high‐dose Moluodan. Moluodan was non‐inferior to folic acid (95% confidence interval: −9.2 to 12.5; P = 0.02). High‐dose Moluodan had a trend for better protective efficacy, though there was no statistical significance. The disappearance rate of dysplasia was 82.8% in the Moluodan group, which was superior to folic acid (53.9%; P = 0.006). No drug‐related serious adverse events were observed.

Conclusions

One pack of Moluodan three times daily for 1 year was safe and effective in reversing gastric precancerous lesions, especially dysplasia. Doubling its dose showed a better efficacy trend.
Unlocking the potential of bacterial endophytes from medicinal plants for drug discovery
Authors: Zotchev Sergey B.
Published: February 2024

Among the plant‐associated microorganisms, the so‐called endophytes continue to attract much attention because of their ability not only to protect host plants from biotic and abiotic stress factors, but also the potential to produce bioactive secondary metabolites. The latter property can elicit growth‐promoting effects on plants, as well as boost the production of plant‐specific secondary metabolites with valuable pharmacological properties. In addition, endophyte‐derived secondary metabolites may be a rich source for the discovery of drugs to treat various diseases, including infections and cancer. However, the full potential of endophytes to produce bioactive secondary metabolites is often not revealed upon conventional cultivation in the laboratory. New advances in genomics and metabolic engineering offer exciting opportunities for the exploration and exploitation of endophytes' biosynthetic potential. This review focuses on bacterial endophytes of medicinal plants, some of their secondary metabolites and recent advances in deciphering their biosynthesis. The latter may assist in genetic engineering efforts aimed at the discovery of novel bioactive compounds with the potential to be developed into drugs.
Subcontracting requirements and the cost of government procurement
Authors: Rosa Benjamin V
Published: February 2024

Government procurement contracts are frequently subject to policies that specify a subcontracting requirement for the utilization of historically disadvantaged firms. I study how such subcontracting policies affect procurement auctions using data from New Mexico's Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Program. Theoretically, subcontracting requirements reduce prime contractors' private information on their costs by requiring them to select their subcontractors from a common pool of disadvantaged firms. This feature mitigates cost increases from using more costly subcontractors by causing prime contractors to strategically lower their markups. My estimated model reveals that New Mexico's past subcontracting requirements led to minor increases in procurement costs.
Towards identification of new genetic determinants for post‐weaning diarrhea in piglets
Authors: Ibragimov Emil , Eriksen Esben Østergaard , Nielsen Jens Peter , Jørgensen Claus B. , Fredholm Merete , Karlskov‐Mortensen Peter
Published: February 2024

Post‐weaning diarrhea in pigs is a considerable challenge in the pig farming industry due to its effect on animal welfare and production costs, as well as the large volume of antibiotics, which are used to treat diarrhea in pigs after weaning. Previous studies have revealed loci on SSC6 and SSC13 associated with susceptibility to specific diarrhea causing pathogens. This study aimed to identify new genetic loci for resistance to diarrhea based on phenotypic data. In depth clinical characterization of diarrhea was performed in 257 pigs belonging to two herds during the first 14 days post weaning. The daily diarrhea assessments were used for the classification of pigs into case and control groups. Pigs were assigned to case and control groups based only on the incidence of diarrhea in the second week of the study in order to differentiate between differences in etiology. Genome‐wide association studies and metabolomics association analysis were performed in order to identify new biological determinants for diarrhea susceptibility. With the present work, we revealed a new locus for diarrhea resistance on SSC16. Furthermore, studies of metabolomics in the same pigs revealed one metabolite associated with diarrhea.
“Symbolism, Separatism, and Perpetual Guilt”: Politicians Debating the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission, 1987–1990
Authors: Holland Alison
Published: February 2024

In the last quarter of the twentieth century, Aboriginal Affairs was a volatile portfolio. Gough Whitlam signalled a reorientation of policy with self‐determination in 1973. However, in the succeeding decade, policy slipped back to self‐management and self‐sufficiency that were the default of the Coalition. The proposals for an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission by Labor in the late 1980s brought self‐determination back into the equation and sparked much heated debate. This article focusses on the parliamentary debates around Labor's proposed legislation to establish the Commission, between 1987 and November 1989, when the debates concluded and a severely reduced Act came into being. I argue that the Coalition's hostility to the proposal demonstrated an implacable resistance to self‐determination and an agenda that sought to derail its possibility. Furthermore, I argue that the resonances between arguments for and against an Indigenous voice then and now demonstrate the radical nature of Labor's agenda in the late 1980s and suggest that arguments against the Voice to Parliament now might be conceived as unfinished business by conservative Coalition forces.
Is varicocoelectomy indicated in infertile men with isolated teratozoospermia? a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Dursun Murat , Beşiroğlu Hüseyin , Aydın Reşat , Kaçan Turgay , Sevinç Ahmet Halil , Kadıoğlu Ateş
Published: February 2024

Background

Clinical palpable varicocoeles in conjunction with isolated teratozoospermia are rarely observed. Therefore, the effects of varicocoelectomy on sperm morphology are not clear. The aim of this meta‐analysis is to compile studies that assess the effectiveness of varicocoelectomy in isolated teratozoospermia to reach a more consistent and reliable conclusion.

Material‐Methods

The present meta‐analysis was registered to PROSPERO (CRD42023467933). We utilized the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses) guideline to report the outcomes. Articles published before 1 October 2023 were included in the study. The search terms used were teratozoospermia, isolated teratozoospermia, varicocoelectomy for isolated teratozoospermia, and semen analysis after varicocoelectomy in isolated teratozoospermia.

Results

We identified 1,013 studies in full publications or abstracts using the methodology and the search terms. Five studies were included for systematic review, while four were included for meta‐analysis. The five studies (10–14) included 348 patients aged 18–44 years. The pooled analysis revealed a significant improvement in sperm morphology in isolated teratozoospermia patients undergoing varicocoelectomy (Q = 199.42, p < 0.0001; I2 = 98.49%). The pooled analysis revealed no significant improvement in sperm concentration in isolated teratozoospermia patients undergoing varicocoelectomy (Q = 5.69, p = 0.058; I2 = 64.85%). Three of the examined studies provided information regarding pregnancy rate and it was high in all studies. According to the Newcastle–Ottowa scale (NOS) assessment, the total quality score of all studies was 7. The funnel plot test demonstrated a visible asymmetry, and Begg and Mazumdar's rank correlation test confirmed the publication bias (p = 0.04).

Discussion

Varicocoelectomy can be an effective and reliable treatment option in patients with isolated morphology abnormalities and clinically palpable varicocoele.

Conclusion

This meta‐analysis reported that varicocoelectomy may increase pregnancy rates by improving semen parameters in infertile men with isolated teratozoospermia, although this conclusion requires further evidence.
Healthcare sustainability in cardiothoracic surgery
Authors: Leow Lowell , Tam John Kit Chung , Kee Poh Pei , Zain Amanda
Published: February 2024

Background

Climate change is the greatest threat to human health. Cardiothoracic patients suffer direct consequences from poor environmental health and we have a vested interest to address this in our practice. As leaders of complex high‐end surgery, we are uniquely positioned to effect practical and immediate changes to significantly pare down emissions within the operating theatre, outside the operating theatre and beyond the confines of the hospital.

Methods

We aim to spotlight this pressing issue, take stock of our current efforts, and encourage fellow specialists to drive this agenda.

Results

Sustainability in healthcare needs to be formalized as part of the core curriculum in surgical training and awareness generated via carbon audits and life cycle analyses. Practical actions such as reducing unnecessary equipment usage, choosing reusable equipment over single use disposables, judicious use of investigations rooted in clinical reasoning and sharing of resources across services and health systems help reduce the carbon output of our specialty.

Conclusion

The ‘Triple Bottom Line’ serves as a good template to calibrate efforts that balance quality against environmental costs. More can be done to advocate for and find solutions for sustainable healthcare with cardiothoracic surgery.
Cause of death and making end‐of‐life decisions in preterm infants has not changed over time: A mortality follow‐back survey
Authors: Goossens Linde , Dombrecht Laure , Chambaere Kenneth , Beernaert Kim , Cools Filip
Published: February 2024

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate changes over time in cause of death and making end‐of‐life decisions in preterm infants.

Methods

A follow‐back survey was conducted of all preterm infants who died between September 2016 and December 2017 in Flanders and Brussels, Belgium. Cause of death was obtained from the death certificate and information on end‐of‐life decisions (ELDs) through an anonymous questionnaire of the certifying physician. Results were compared with a previous study performed between August 1999 and July 2000.

Results

In the cohort 1999–2000 and 2016–2017, respectively, 150 and 135 deaths were included. A significantly higher proportion of infants born before 26 weeks of gestation was found in the 2016–2017 cohort (53% vs. 24% in 1999–2000, p < 0.001). Extreme immaturity (<26 weeks) remained the most prevalent cause with a significant increase in the 2016–2017 cohort (48% vs. 28% in 1999–2000, p < 0.001). The overall prevalence of ELDs was similar across study periods (61%). Non‐treatment decisions remained the most common ELD (36% and 37%).

Conclusion

Infants born at the limits of viability have become more prevalent among infant deaths, possibly due to a change in attitude towards periviable births. Neither the process of making ELDs nor the cause of death has changed over time.
Cervical intervertebral disc disease in 307 small‐breed dogs (2000–2021): Breed‐characteristic features and disc‐associated vertebral instability
Authors: Aikawa T , Miyazaki Y , Kihara S , Muyama H , Nishimura M
Published: February 2024

Objective

To evaluate the breed‐characteristic features of cervical intervertebral disc disease (C‐IVDD) and associated vertebral instability in small‐breed dogs and to present the concept of intervertebral disc degeneration and associated instability stage, method of diagnosis, treatment and outcomes.

Animals

In total, 307 client‐owned dogs with C‐IVDD treated with spinal cord decompression with or without vertebral stabilization (2000–2021).

Methods

Information on age, sex, affected sites, stabilized sites, diagnostic methods for vertebral instability and outcomes were retrieved. The patient's age, affected sites (cranial vs caudal discs), and frequency of vertebral stabilization were compared in six CD and five NCD breed. Multivariable analyses of the chondrodystrophic (CD) vs non‐CD (NCD) groups, and vertebral stabilization (dogs stabilized vs dogs not stabilized) were performed.

Results

In total, 222 (72.3%) and 77 (25.1%) were CD and NCD breeds, respectively. Vertebral instabilities were diagnosed based on the survey radiographs with computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging (n = 2), dynamic myelography (n = 29), intraoperative spinal manipulation (n = 11) or second surgery in dogs with persistent postoperative paraspinal pain (n = 3). Of these dogs, 295 (96.1%) recovered (median follow‐up: 8.5 [range, 1–119] months). Significant differences in age, affected sites and frequency of stabilization were noted among the breeds. Older age and frequent vertebral stabilization were the associated factors for the NCD breed dogs. Male dogs, caudal discs affected (C5–T1) and the NCD breed dogs were risk factors for the dogs with vertebral stabilization.

Conclusion

Vertebral stabilization is indicated for small‐breed dogs with cervical disc‐associated vertebral instability.
Prognostic impact of histological discordance between transurethral resection and radical cystectomy
Authors: Matsuda Ayumu , Taoka Rikiya , Miki Jun , Saito Ryoichi , Fukuokaya Wataru , Hatakeyama Shingo , Kawahara Takashi , Fujii Yoichi , Kato Minoru , Sazuka Tomokazu , Sano Takeshi , Urabe Fumihiko , Kashima Soki , Naito Hirohito , Murakami Yoji , Miyake Makito , Daizumoto Kei , Matsushita Yuto , Hayashi Takuji , Inokuchi Junichi , Sugino Yusuke , Shiga Kenichiro , Yamaguchi Noriya , Iio Hiroyuki , Yasue Keiji , Abe Takashige , Nakanishi Shotaro , Matsumura Masafumi , Fujii Masato , Nishihara Kiyoaki , Matsumoto Hiroaki , Tatarano Shuichi , Wada Koichiro , Sekito Sho , Maruyama Ryo , Nishiyama Naotaka , Nishiyama Hiroyuki , Kitamura Hiroshi , Matsui Yoshiyuki ,   the Japanese Urological Oncology Group
Published: February 2024

Objective

To analyse the impact of histological discordance of subtypes (subtypes or divergent differentiation [DD]) in specimens from transurethral resection (TUR) and radical cystectomy (RC) on the outcome of the patients with bladder cancer receiving RC.

Patients and methods

We analysed data for 2570 patients from a Japanese nationwide cohort with bladder cancer treated with RC between January 2013 and December 2019 at 36 institutions. The non‐urinary tract recurrence‐free survival (NUTR‐FS) and overall survival (OS) stratified by TUR or RC specimen histology were determined. We also elucidated the predictive factors for OS in patients with subtype/DD bladder cancer.

Results

At median follow‐up of 36.9 months, 835 (32.4%) patients had NUTR, and 691 (26.9%) died. No statistically significant disparities in OS or NUTR‐FS were observed when TUR specimens were classified as pure‐urothelial carcinoma (UC), subtypes, DD, or non‐UC. Among 2449 patients diagnosed with pure‐UC or subtype/DD in their TUR specimens, there was discordance between the pathological diagnosis in TUR and RC specimens. Histological subtypes in RC specimens had a significant prognostic impact. When we focused on 345 patients with subtype/DD in TUR specimens, a multivariate Cox regression analysis identified pre‐RC neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio and pathological stage as independent prognostic factors for OS (P = 0.016 and P = 0.001, respectively). The presence of sarcomatoid subtype in TUR specimens and lymphovascular invasion in RC specimens had a marginal effect (P = 0.069 and P = 0.056, respectively).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that the presence of subtype/DD in RC specimens but not in TUR specimens indicated a poor prognosis. In patients with subtype/DD in TUR specimens, pre‐RC neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio and pathological stage were independent prognostic factors for OS.
Why classical receptor theory, which ignores allostery, can effectively measure the strength of an allosteric effect as agonist's efficacy
Authors: Onaran H. Ongun , Costa Tommaso
Published: February 2024

Background and Purpose

The classical theory of receptor action has been used for decades as a powerful tool to estimate molecular determinants of ligand‐induced receptor activation (i.e., affinity and efficacy) from experimentally observable biological responses. However, it is also a well‐recognized fact that the receptor‐binding and activation mechanisms, and the parameters thereof, described in the classical theory contradict with the modern view of receptor activation based on allosteric principles.

Experimental Approach

We used mathematical analysis, along with some numerical simulations, to answer the key question as to what extent the classical theory is compatible—if at all—with the modern understanding of receptor activation.

Key Results

Here, we showed conclusively that (1) receptor activation equations based on allosteric principles contain the logic of the classical theory in disguise, and therefore, (2) estimates of “intrinsic efficacy” (ε) obtained by means of classical techniques (i.e., null methods or fitting the operational model to concentration‐response data) are equivalent to the allosteric coupling factors that represent the molecular efficacy of ligands.

Conclusion and Implications

Thus, we conclude that despite the justified criticisms it has received so far, the classical theory may continue to be useful in estimating ligand efficacy from experimental data, if used properly. Here, we also provide rigorous criteria for the proper use of the theory. These findings not only have implications for ligand classification but also resolve some long lasting discussions in the field of bias agonism in GPCR, which requires reasonable estimates of relative ligand efficacies at different signalling pathways.
Ecological restoration and rewilding: two approaches with complementary goals?
Authors: Mutillod Clémentine , Buisson Élise , Mahy Gregory , Jaunatre Renaud , Bullock James M. , Tatin Laurent , Dutoit Thierry
Published: February 2024

As we enter the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021–2030) and address the urgent need to protect and restore ecosystems and their ecological functions at large scales, rewilding has been brought into the limelight. Interest in this discipline is thus increasing, with a large number of conceptual scientific papers published in recent years. Increasing enthusiasm has led to discussions and debates in the scientific community about the differences between ecological restoration and rewilding. The main goal of this review is to compare and clarify the position of each field. Our results show that despite some differences (e.g. top‐down versus bottom‐up and functional versus taxonomic approaches) and notably with distinct goals – recovery of a defined historically determined target ecosystem versus recovery of natural processes with often no target endpoint – ecological restoration and rewilding have a common scope: the recovery of ecosystems following anthropogenic degradation. The goals of ecological restoration and rewilding have expanded with the progress of each field. However, it is unclear whether there is a paradigm shift with ecological restoration moving towards rewilding or vice versa. We underline the complementarity in time and in space of ecological restoration and rewilding. To conclude, we argue that reconciliation of these two fields of nature conservation to ensure complementarity could create a synergy to achieve their common scope.