bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hyperspectral estimation model of soil organic matter content based on principal gradient grey information
Authors: Xu Lu , Cao Shuang , Li Xican
Published: May 2024

Purpose

In order to explore a new estimation approach of hyperspectral estimation, this paper aims to establish a hyperspectral estimation model of soil organic matter content with the principal gradient grey information based on the grey information theory.

Design/methodology/approach

Firstly, the estimation factors are selected by transforming the spectral data. The eigenvalue matrix of the modelling samples is converted into grey information matrix by using the method of increasing information and taking large, and the principal gradient grey information of modelling samples is calculated by using the method of pro-information interpolation and straight-line interpolation, respectively, and the hyperspectral estimation model of soil organic matter content is established. Then, the positive and inverse grey relational degree are used to identify the principal gradient information quantity of the test samples corresponding to the known patterns, and the cubic polynomial method is used to optimize the principal gradient information quantity for improving estimation accuracy. Finally, the established model is used to estimate the soil organic matter content of Zhangqiu and Jiyang District of Jinan City, Shandong Province.

Findings

The results show that the model has the higher estimation accuracy, among the average relative error of 23 test samples is 5.7524%, and the determination coefficient is 0.9002. Compared with the commonly used methods such as multiple linear regression, support vector machine and BP neural network, the hyperspectral estimation accuracy of soil organic matter content is significantly improved. The application example shows that the estimation model proposed in this paper is feasible and effective.

Practical implications

The estimation model in this paper not only fully excavates and utilizes the internal grey information of known samples with “insufficient and incomplete information”, but also effectively overcomes the randomness and grey uncertainty in the spectral estimation. The research results not only enrich the grey system theory and methods, but also provide a new approach for hyperspectral estimation of soil properties such as soil organic matter content, water content and so on.

Originality/value

The paper succeeds in realizing both a new hyperspectral estimation model of soil organic matter content based on the principal gradient grey information and effectively dealing with the randomness and grey uncertainty in spectral estimation.
The dynamics of employability capitals for the transition to work: career identity, cultural capital, job interview self-efficacy and self-perceived employability
Authors: Petruzziello Gerardo , Nimmi P.M. , Mariani Marco Giovanni
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to understand how employability capitals’ dynamics foster self-perceived employability (SPE) among students and graduates, which is still being empirically explored. Building upon the Employability Capital Growth Model and the Social Cognitive Career Theory’s career self-management model, we aimed to understand how different capitals associate by testing a serial mediation model connecting career identity (reflecting career identity capital) and SPE through the serial mediation of cultural capital and job interview self-efficacy (ISE) (an element of psychological capital).

Design/methodology/approach

We adopted a two-wave design involving 227 Italian University students and graduates. We recruited participants through multi-channel communication. The hypothesised relationships were analysed employing the structural equation modelling approach with the SPSS AMOS statistical package.

Findings

The results indicated that career identity, cultural capital, ISE and SPE are meaningfully related. In particular, in line with our expectations, we observed that career identity predicts cultural capital, which is positively associated with ISE which, ultimately, impacts SPE.

Originality/value

Our work adds to existing research by advancing the understanding of employability capitals, explaining how they interact and influence SPE, which is crucial for a sustainable transition into the workforce. At a practical level, our findings call upon, and guide, efforts from various stakeholders in the graduate career ecosystem (i.e. universities and their partners) to offer students and graduates meaningful experiences to form and use their employability capitals.
Comparative study: perceptions of multiple education stakeholders on children with disabilities and goals of special education in Oman and the Philippines
Authors: Lee Young Ah , Francisco Marian Patricia Bea , Al-Said Shariffa Khalid Qais , Al Bulushi Muna Yousuf Abdullah , Wang Ye
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This comparative study explored the perceptions of educational stakeholders in Oman and the Philippines concerning children with disabilities and the goals of special education. Stakeholders' perspectives can influence their professional behaviours and attitudes, which, in turn, can profoundly impact children with disabilities who already face numerous challenges. Hence, comprehending the viewpoints of these stakeholders is vital for fostering socially just education for individuals with disabilities.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed a qualitative comparative case study approach with a horizontal comparison strategy, and both convenience and purposeful sampling techniques were used for participant selection. The study involved 53 participants from both countries, including policymakers, teacher educators, in-service teachers and student teachers from general and special education domains. Data were gathered through individual interviews and themes were subsequently discerned via data analysis.

Findings

Despite the different cultural and historical contexts and distinct roles of stakeholders in both countries, the results indicate more parallels than disparities in their perceptions. The primary congruence underscored in this research was imperative to critically assess the language and ideology surrounding the goals of special education, such as mainstreaming and normalisation.

Originality/value

Although numerous studies have probed the perceptions of various educational stakeholders concerning children with disabilities and educational goals, there is limited research that encompasses the perspectives of the seven distinct stakeholder groups. The consistency of language usage across both countries and among all stakeholders underscores the need for a rigorous cross-country examination involving all educational participants.
An artificial neural network model for determining stress concentration factors for fatigue design of tubular T-joint under compressive loads
Authors: Rasul Adnan , Karuppanan Saravanan , Perumal Veeradasan , Ovinis Mark , Iqbal Mohsin
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The stress concentration factor (SCF) is commonly utilized to assess the fatigue life of a tubular T-joint in offshore structures. Parametric equations derived from experimental testing and finite element analysis (FEA) are utilized to estimate the SCF efficiently. The mathematical equations provide the SCF at the crown and saddle of tubular T-joints for various load scenarios. Offshore structures are subjected to a wide range of stresses from all directions, and the hotspot stress might occur anywhere along the brace. It is critical to incorporate stress distribution since using the single-point SCF equation can lead to inaccurate hotspot stress and fatigue life estimates. As far as we know, there are no equations available to determine the SCF around the axis of the brace.

Design/methodology/approach

A mathematical model based on the training weights and biases of artificial neural networks (ANNs) is presented to predict SCF. 625 FEA simulations were conducted to obtain SCF data to train the ANN.

Findings

Using real data, this ANN was used to create mathematical formulas for determining the SCF. The equations can calculate the SCF with a percentage error of less than 6%.

Practical implications

Engineers in practice can use the equations to compute the hotspot stress precisely and rapidly, thereby minimizing risks linked to fatigue failure of offshore structures and assuring their longevity and reliability. Our research contributes to enhancing the safety and reliability of offshore structures by facilitating more precise assessments of stress distribution.

Originality/value

Precisely determining the SCF for the fatigue life of offshore structures reduces the potential hazards associated with fatigue failure, thereby guaranteeing their longevity and reliability. The present study offers a systematic approach for using FEA and ANN to calculate the stress distribution along the weld toe and the SCF in T-joints since ANNs are better at approximating complex phenomena than standard data fitting techniques. Once a database of parametric equations is available, it can be used to rapidly approximate the SCF, unlike experimentation, which is costly and FEA, which is time consuming.
What determines public attitudes toward immigration in the Middle East: an analysis at the individual level
Authors: Saleh Deena , Vergil Hasan
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Surveys in Europe show that immigration is more of a challenge than an opportunity for a significant number of people. However, little attention is given to attitudes toward immigration in the Middle East. This paper examines the effects of personal values and religiosity on the anti-immigration attitudes of citizens in the Middle East and North African countries.

Design/methodology/approach

Utilizing data from the World Values Survey, we analyze how personal values and religiosity affect anti-immigration attitudes in nine Middle Eastern countries. The data covers individual-level data of 9 MENA countries from the WVS Round 7 (2017–2022). Factor analysis is applied as a data reduction method. Afterward, an OLS regression analysis is conducted on the pooled data.

Findings

Anti-immigration attitudes increase with age, education, and religiosity. Personal values such as national pride, support for nationals, and belongingness to one’s country significantly affect anti-immigration attitudes. Furthermore, the importance of religion as a measure of religiosity was found to be positively associated with anti-immigration attitudes.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to underexplored literature by investigating how individual-level determinants, such as demographic indicators, personal values, and religious factors, shape anti-immigration attitudes in the MENA context, distinct from European dynamics.
Islamic finance principles and performance of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Makindye Division Kampala District Central Uganda
Authors: Buyondo Hakimu
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) are vital for economic growth in developing countries. Yet, little research has explored the link between Islamic principles and MSME performance, especially in Uganda. This study aims to investigate the relationship between Islamic financial principles and MSMEs’ performance in Makindye Division Kampala – Uganda.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a correlational research design involving 86 respondents from 30 MSMEs between January and May 2023. Data collected through questionnaires was analyzed with Statistical Package for Social Sciences, examining three independent variables: ethicality, Halal investment and prohibition of riba, in relation to MSME performance.

Findings

The results revealed significant relationships between these variables and MSME performance. Prohibition of riba (r = 0.296, n = 86, p = 0.006), Halal investments (r = 0.308, n = 86, p = 0.004) and ethical principles (r = 0.283, n = 86, p = 0.008) all exhibited a statistically significant relationship. Regression analysis with R = 0.405, R2 = 0.164 and adjusted R2 = 0.134 indicated that all hypothesized variables were significant predictors of MSME performance. Based on findings, this study rejected the null hypothesis, confirming a moderately positive and significant relationship between Islamic financial principles and MSME performance.

Originality/value

This study underscores the importance of active involvement from key stakeholders such as the Uganda Halal Bureau, Uganda Muslim Supreme Council, Islamic financial institutions and government agencies in integrating robust support mechanisms for MSMEs into their strategic frameworks. Such efforts could enhance Uganda’s economic landscape, aligning with the experiences of Malaysia and Indonesia in leveraging Islamic principles for economic growth.
Global logistics and supply chain integration in the digital era: a focus on China's Belt and Road Initiative
Authors: Wang Michael , Childerhouse Paul , Abareshi Ahmad
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To delve into the integration of global logistics and supply chain networks amidst the digital transformation era. This study aims to investigate the potential role of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in facilitating the integration of global flows encompassing both tangible goods and intangibles. Additionally, the study seeks to incorporate third-party logistics activities into a comprehensive global logistics and supply chain integration framework.

Design/methodology/approach

Prior research is synthesised into a global logistics and supply chain integration framework. A case study was undertaken on Yuan Tong (YTO) express group to investigate the framework, employing qualitative data analysis techniques. The study specifically examined the context of the BRI to enhance comprehension of its impact on global supply chains. Information was collected in particular to two types of supply chain flows, the physical flow of goods, and intangible information and cash flows.

Findings

The proposed framework aligns well with the case study, leading to the identification of global logistics and supply chain integration enablers. The results demonstrate a range of ways BRI promotes global logistics and supply chain integration.

Research limitations/implications

The case study, with multiple examples, focuses on how third-party logistics firms can embrace global logistics and supply chain integration in line with BRI. The case study approach limits generalisation, further applications in different contexts are required to validate the findings.

Originality/value

The framework holds promise for aiding practitioners and researchers in gaining deeper insights into the role of the BRI in global logistics and supply chain integration within the digital era. The identified enablers underscore the importance of emphasising key factors necessary for success in navigating digital transformation within global supply chains.
Emergence of chambers in the Turkish history: the case of Dersaadet Chamber of Commerce (DCC) as a public-agent meta-organization, 1882–1929
Authors: Doğan Ali , Erçek Mehmet
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Building on previous historical works, this study aims to develop a framework to represent chambers as meta-organizations and present the case of Dersaadet Chamber of Commerce (DCC), based on this framework, during its emergence and evolution in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Design/methodology/approach

In the study, a historical narrative was constructed from primary and secondary data. To complement data collected from the archives a systematic content analysis was used to explore the discourse of the chamber within its serial magazine.

Findings

It was found that the first chamber of the Ottoman Empire, DCC, was established according to the public law model as an extension of the economic context and the guild order, and it was observed that it increasingly conformed to this model between 1882 and 1929.

Originality/value

In this study, chamber models are examined for the first time according to the designated features of meta-organizational forms, built on the historical work on chambers. The case of DCC suggested that it adopted a public law model and displayed much continuity, even when significant transitions were observed during the modernization process from Ottoman Empire to Turkish Republic.
Global research trends in nursing leadership from 1985 to 2022: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Chen Changchang , Zheng Xutong , Chen Wenjie , Mu Hezi , Zhang Man , Lang Hongjuan , Hu Xuejun
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Developing nursing leadership has become a key policy priority to achieve universal health coverage. This study aims to explore the current status, developing trends and research frontiers in the field of nursing leadership.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 1,137 articles and reviews on nursing leadership from 1985 to 2022 were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection database. Trends of publications, journals, countries/regions, institutions, documents and keywords were visualized and analyzed using Microsoft Excel and CiteSpace software.

Findings

Nursing leadership research showed an overall increase in number despite slight fluctuations in annual publications. The USA was the leading country in nursing leadership research, and the University of Alberta was the most productive institution. The Journal of Nursing Management was the most widely published journal that focused on nursing leadership, followed by the Journal of Nursing Administration. Keyword analysis showed that the main research hotspots of nursing leadership are improvement, practice and impact of nursing leadership.

Originality/value

This article summarizes the current state and frontiers of nursing leadership for researchers, managers and policy makers, as well as follow-up, development and implementation of nursing leadership. More research is needed that focuses on the improvement, practice and impact of nursing leadership, which are cyclical, complementary and mutually reinforcing. Longitudinal and intervention studies of nursing leadership, especially on patient prognosis, are also particularly needed.
Dialogue in the Dark Malaysia: reimagining an inclusive society through social innovation
Authors: Chong Yit Sean , Teh Yong Yuan
Published: May 2024

Research methodology

This case was developed via primary data collected from personal (one to one) interview with the CEO and founder of Dialogue in the Dark Malaysia (Dialogue Malaysia), Stevens Chan. With Stevens’ contact, the authors also conducted personal interviews with Kaye Chan (co-founder and wife of Stevens Chan), Lynn Foo (project manager since inception until early 2022) and Dr Foo Yin Fah (academic researcher in social entrepreneurship and advisor for Dialogue Malaysia). Secondary data included reports on visually impaired context in Malaysia, Dialogue Malaysia’s annual reports and online articles. Prior to the primary data collection, the authors obtained ethics approval from the University Human Ethics Committee (Project ID: 35461).

Case overview/synopsis

This case narrative focuses on Stevens Chan, a blind social entrepreneur who champions the empowerment of the disabled and marginalised community. Through a social franchising model, Stevens founded Dialogue in the Dark Malaysia in 2012. As a social start-up, Stevens showcases the strengths of blind and visually impaired individuals through transformative experiential encounters and reimagining future possibilities. Although there are constant challenges in securing financial and human capital, Stevens never lacks psychological capital, characterised by hope, self-efficacy, optimism and resilience. His vision is to educate society on the power of empathy (and not sympathy) and to create a holistic experience of celebrating diversity and inclusion through an innovative discovery centre, where the elderly and the disabled community (including the deaf, mute and those with mobility issues) share their lives with the public through fun activities. However, the future of this social enterprise is uncertain, and this case invites participants to embark on this journey with Stevens to uncover future pathways for growth and social impact.

Complexity academic level

The case is tailored for higher level undergraduates and entry-level and mid-level managers of executive education programs.
Implementing Lean 4.0: a review of case studies in pharmaceutical industry transformation
Authors: Tetteh-Caesar Michelle Grace , Gupta Sumit , Salonitis Konstantinos , Jagtap Sandeep
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this systematic review is to critically analyze pharmaceutical industry case studies on the implementation of Lean 4.0 methodologies to synthesize key lessons, benefits and best practices. The goal is to inform decisions and guide investments in related technologies for enhancing quality, compliance, efficiency and responsiveness across production and supply chain processes.

Design/methodology/approach

The article utilized a systematic literature review (SLR) methodology following five phases: formulating research questions, locating relevant articles, selecting and evaluating articles, analyzing and synthesizing findings and reporting results. The SLR aimed to critically analyze pharmaceutical industry case studies on Lean 4.0 implementation to synthesize key lessons, benefits and best practices.

Findings

Key findings reveal recurrent efficiency gains, obstacles around legacy system integration and data governance as well as necessary operator training investments alongside technological upgrades. On average, quality assurance reliability improved by over 50%, while inventory waste declined by 57% based on quantified metrics across documented initiatives synthesizing robotics, sensors and analytics.

Research limitations/implications

As a comprehensive literature review, findings depend on available documented implementations within the search period rather than direct case evaluations. Reporting bias may also skew toward more successful accounts.

Practical implications

Synthesized implementation patterns, performance outcomes and concealed pitfalls provide pharmaceutical leaders with an evidence-based reference guide aiding adoption strategy development, resource planning and workforce transitioning crucial for Lean 4.0 assimilation.

Originality/value

This systematic assessment of pharmaceutical Lean 4.0 adoption offers an unprecedented perspective into the real-world issues, dependencies and modifications necessary for successful integration, absent from conceptual projections or isolated case studies alone until now.
Deconstructing digital nomads: are they the last frontiers of the post-tourist?
Authors: Kaya Sayarı Burcu , Coşkun İnci Oya
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This research aims to scrutinize the dwelling of digital nomads in postmodernism’s social, cultural and political context and to illuminate their post-tourist characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a conceptual approach and sociological considerations, the study closely investigates the characteristics of digital nomads and offers a postmodernist ontological, epistemological and methodological stance.

Findings

The study highlights the ambiguity of the concepts of digital nomadism and tourism. Furthermore, since every digital nomad is a potential tourist with a work-leisure balance, it points out the need to grasp tourism and work from a different perspective than the dichotomy of modernism.

Research limitations/implications

The postmodernist perspective offers a fruitful approach to illuminate the social conditions in which digital nomads dwell and concomitantly encompasses the tourist and nomad by rejecting dichotomies. The study also points out the need to place the agency of digital nomads in a broader context and analyze these mobilities from local and global interactions in addition to the nomads' point of view.

Originality/value

This study provides a new perspective on the relationship between digital nomads, postmodern conditions and their role as post-tourists.
Equivalent mating system parameters in post‐mining and undisturbed native plant populations confirms restitution of bird‐pollinator function
Authors: Krauss Siegfried , Anthony Janet , Lapenzee Suzanne , Ritchie Alison , Elliott Carole , Dobrowolski Mark P. , Standish Rachel
Published: May 2024

The restoration of diverse self‐sustaining ecosystems requires re‐establishment of functional interactions among species. For plant communities, pollinators are usually essential for pollination, seed set and seed quality. A common assumption in ecological restoration for plants pollinated by animals is one of ‘build it and they will come’, which is rarely tested. Beyond seed set, there may be negative genetic consequences for seed quality if pollinators and their behaviour do not reflect those in reference populations.

Here, we conduct an ecological genetic assessment of seed quality via mating system parameters in Lambertia multiflora (Proteaceae), a species dependent on nectar‐feeding birds for pollination. Four populations of L. multiflora in disturbed sites that were rehabilitated following mineral sands mining were compared with four native reference populations, near Eneabba, Western Australia. In each population, approximately 10 offspring from each of 10 maternal plants were genotyped with 11 highly polymorphic microsatellite markers.

From these data, genetic diversity and mating system parameters were assessed, and found to be equivalent across all populations. Mean allelic diversity and heterozygosity across loci were very high. All populations were completely outcrossing with no bi‐parental inbreeding. Mean correlated paternity, sibship and effective population size estimates for restored and natural populations were not significantly different and reflected uniformly high paternal diversity and wide outcrossing. Equivalent genetic results for restored and natural reference populations indicate successful restitution of bird‐pollinator services for L. multiflora in these post‐mining rehabilitation sites.

Synthesis and applications. Reviewing our results with other published studies to date suggests a resilience of bird‐pollinator services in restored plant communities. These findings provide some reassurance to restoration practitioners working in these global south systems where bird pollination is a feature, at least for similar landscape scenarios. Our study also highlights the global contribution of ecological genetics to the objective assessment of functional species interactions in ecological restoration, an increasingly important goal of land managers and regulators seeking to improve restoration standards.
Reform and reverberation: Australian aged care policy changes and the unintended consequences for allied health
Authors: Gibson Diane , Isbel Stephen
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Allied health has a valuable role in providing services to people living in residential aged care. The recent Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety included several important recommendations relating to the nursing, personal care, and allied health workforce and the care that they provide. The purpose of this paper is to review these recommendations and the Australian Government's policy responses and explore the emerging changes in allied health service provision in residential aged care.

Methods

Data from the four available Quarterly Financial Reports from the 2022–2023 financial year were extracted and analysed in relation to staff costs and time per person per day across personal care, nursing, and allied health workers. Supplementary data sources including the 2020 Aged Care Workforce Census were accessed to provide contextual data relating to individual allied health professions, including occupational therapy.

Results

The analysis shows a modest increase in median registered nurse minutes per person per day, and cost per person per day, from the first to second quarter, and again in the third and fourth. By contrast, median time and cost for allied health declined. From 5.6 minutes per person per day in the first quarter, reported allied health minutes fell to 4.6 minutes per person per day in the second quarter, an 18% decrease, and by the fourth quarter was 4.3 minutes per person per day. This is just over half the Australian average of 8 minutes reported to the RCACQS in 2019.

Conclusion

Under recent residential aged care reforms, aged care providers have regulatory incentives to concentrate their financial resources on meeting the mandated care hours for registered nurses, enrolled nurses, personal care workers, and assistants in nursing. These same reforms do not mandate minutes of allied health services. Although providers of residential aged care in Australia continue to employ and value allied health, we argue that mandating care minutes for personal and nursing care without mandating the provision of allied health creates a perverse incentive whereby access to allied health services is unintentionally reduced.
On the measurement of corporate governance and its impact on bank profitability and credit risk: The case of Tunisian listed banks
Authors: Jmaii Amal , Zaafouri Noomene , Mehri Hella Guerchi
Published: May 2024

This paper explores the influence of corporate governance on the profitability and credit risk of a sample of listed banks in Tunisia. The methodology involves two main steps. Firstly, principal component analysis is employed to construct a novel governance index, assessing the quality of both internal and external bank governance. This index takes into account the degree of compliance and application of directives and laws mandated by the Tunisian Central Bank regarding banking governance. In the second step, panel data analysis is conducted to scrutinize the impact of internal and external governance mechanisms on the profitability and risk of Tunisian banks. The results reveal that as the governance index increases, the profitability of banks improves in terms of return on assets and stock market performance. Additionally, a higher governance index is correlated with a reduction in credit risks, as indicated by lower instances of non‐performing loans and an increased rate of coverage for classified debts. To enhance the robustness of our results, we calculate a standard governance score based on existing empirical literature. Furthermore, to account for potential endogeneity, we employ the two‐step system generalized method of moments.
Follow the media? News environment and public concern about immigration
Authors: CARVALHO JOÃO , CARMO DUARTE MARIANA , RUEDIN DIDIER
Published: May 2024

Immigration is a hot topic in Europe, but research on the media effects on public attention to immigration remains limited. We examine how media coverage affects the degree of importance attached to immigration in seven Western European Union member states. Data come from an extensive analysis of claims in printed newspapers, and the Eurobarometer (2002–2009). The continuous sample of news coverage is aggregated into a biannual panel, and we relate these data to citizens’ perceptions of the most important issues in their country 6 months later (lagged). The public consider immigration more important than other policy‐related issues when there is an increase in the volume of news and more political claims on the topic in the media. The media environment appears to be an exogenous actor that can have agenda‐setting effects on public concern about immigration. Our results highlight limitations of both the ‘policy‐gap’ thesis and thermostatic models of policy making.
The substantive representation of men: Intersectionality, masculinities, and men's interests
Authors: MURRAY RAINBOW
Published: May 2024

Men's numerical over‐representation in politics leads to complacency regarding their substantive representation. Yet the men in politics are not descriptively representative of most men and are drawn disproportionately from the most socially privileged groups. Building on theories of representation, intersectionality and masculinities, I argue that men have gendered representational needs that are not adequately met. Power structures among men leave many men marginalized and/or subordinated, and disincentivize the privileged men in power from defending disadvantaged men's interests. Masculinist cultures within politics inhibit discussion of male vulnerability and further undermine the substantive representation of men. I make the case forwhywe should study men's substantive representation and then showhowwe could do so. I propose a groundbreaking research agenda for identifying and measuring men's diverse representational needs, recognizing how these are shaped by gender and its intersection with other identities. Combining insights from objectivist, constructivist and intersectional approaches, I develop a framework for measuring the substantive representation of men that exploreswhorepresents men, whichideologyinforms their claims,which menare included and excluded and whether thegoalsof representation are to transform or uphold the status quo. I offer several illuminations of policies where different men have distinct gendered needs, and offer an extended example using educational outcomes in the United Kingdom to illustrate how privileged men are not effective representatives of disadvantaged men. This article builds the normative case and offers the theoretical tools for addressing an important gap in the study of representation.
KIAA1429 regulates lung adenocarcinoma proliferation and metastasis through the PI3K/AKT pathway by modulating ARHGAP30 expression
Authors: Guo Wei , Wang Tan , Huai Qilin , Guo Lei , Wang Xiaobing , He Jie
Published: May 2024

Background

Alterations in epigenetic factors are recognized as key contributors to the emergence of human cancer. The active and reversible alteration of N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) RNA is crucial for controlling gene activity and determining cellular destiny. Even with these insights, the triggering of KIAA1429 (also called VIRMA) and its role in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is mostly unclear. As a result, the objective of this study was to elucidate how KIAA1429 contributes to cancer development in LUAD.

Methods

This study utilized multiple methods for investigation, encompassing the in vitro functional examination of KIAA1429 in lung adenocarcinoma cells, transcriptome sequencing, methylation RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP‐seq), as well as RNA stability tests to ascertain the half‐life and stability of the target genes.

Results

The results indicated that modifying the expression of KIAA1429 regulated the proliferation and metastasis of LUAD. By employing transcriptome sequencing alongside MeRIP‐seq analysis, the research pinpointed genes affected by m6A alterations triggered by KIAA1429. In a more detailed manner, it was discovered that KIAA1429 plays a regulatory role in the expression of ARHGAP30. Suppressing KIAA1429 results in reduced m6A levels in the mRNA of the target gene ARHGAP30, boosting its stability and expression, thus inhibiting tumor proliferation and metastasis.

Conclusion

This study revealed the activation mechanism and pivotal function of KIAA1429 in LUAD tumor development, paving the way for molecular‐based interventions for LUAD.
Overcoming the lack of distribution data for range‐restricted habitat specialist frogs
Authors: Barata Izabela M. , Uhlig Vivian M. , Cortês Lara G. , Fath Franciele , Griffiths Richard A.
Published: May 2024

With over 40% of species threatened with extinction, the distributional range of most amphibians is still unknown, generating uncertainty whether species are naturally rare, under‐sampled, or difficult to detect. We implemented a modelling approach that uses bromeliads as surrogates to predict the distribution of habitat specialist frogs that lack distributional data. We aimed to predict and survey potential new sites for the occurrence of a rare and microendemic bromeliad‐dwelling frog from the Atlantic Rainforest of Brazil. We used Maxent to predict suitable areas based on climate and topographic profiles, combined with 21 occurrence records of bromeliads within which our target frog species (Crossodactylodes itambe) is strictly restricted. The bromeliad‐based models identified four areas potentially suitable, and subsequent surveys revealed an entirely new species of a rare bromeliad‐dwelling frog in one of the areas. We demonstrate that using easy‐to‐survey surrogate species that have a strong relationship with species that are hard to detect has enormous potential to reveal crucial information on the potential ranges and distribution of cryptic taxa. Such a surrogate modelling approach could be extended to other habitat specialist species that lack distribution data, such as amphibians restricted to specific refugia and/or reproduction sites. This could improve the targeting of surveys and increase understanding of the patterns of rarity and the drivers of species distribution, especially for areas with high endemicity and range‐restricted frogs.
Genomic analysis of inbreeding level, kinship and breed relationships in Creole cattle from South America
Authors: Marcuzzi O. , Calcaterra F. , Loza Vega A. , Ortega Masagué M. F. , Armstrong E. , Pereira Rico J. A. , Jara E. , Olivera L. H. , Peral García P. , Giovambattista G.
Published: May 2024

The conservation of animal genetic resources refers to measures taken to prevent the loss of genetic diversity in livestock populations, including the protection of breeds from extinction. Creole cattle populations have suffered a drastic reduction in recent decades owing to absorbent crosses or replacement with commercial breeds of European or Indian origin. Genetic characterization can serve as a source of information for conservation strategies to maintain genetic variation. The objective of this work was to evaluate the levels of inbreeding and kinship through the use of genomic information. A total of 903 DNAs from 13 cattle populations from Argentina, Bolivia and Uruguay were genotyped using an SNP panel of 48 K. Also, a dataset of 76 K SNPs from Peruvian Creole was included. Two inbreeding indices (FROH and Fhat2) and kinship relationships were calculated. In addition, effective population size (Ne), linkage disequilibrium, population composition and phylogenetic relationships were estimated. In Creole cattle, FROH ranged from 0.14 to 0.03, and Fhat2 was close to zero. The inferred Ne trends exhibited a decline toward the present for all populations, whereas Creole cattle presented a lower magnitude of Ne than foreign breeds. Cluster analysis clearly differentiated the taurine and Zebu components (K2) and showed that Bolivian Creole cattle presented Zebu gene introgression. Despite the population reduction, Creole populations did not present extreme values of consanguinity and kinship and maintain high levels of genetic diversity. The information obtained in this work may be useful for planning conservation programmes for these valuable local animal genetic resources.
The burden of atopic dermatitis in Australia: Medical care, treatment satisfaction, financial impact, long‐term control and quality of life
Authors: Howie Lynita , Orevillo Kara , Tu Michelle , Schwartz Alan , Funk Melanie , Talent Cheryl , Capozza Korey
Published: May 2024

Atopic dermatitis patients and caregivers experience a high physical, mental and financial burden in Australia. We outline how the current care model impacts disease management and patients' quality of life via a survey of 265 Australian patients and caregivers to capture the experience of managing atopic dermatitis (AD) in Australia. Patients report an unsatisfactory quality of life and a high burden of disease with poor long‐term control and low treatment satisfaction. They also reported changing spending and saving patterns to fund medical care. Patient experience improves with more specialised care that incorporates shared decision‐making and patient/caregiver training beyond the clinic visit. These results highlight the need for improved general practitioner (GP) education, expedited access to medical specialists, greater patient involvement in treatment choices and more financial assistance to improve the experience of Australian patients and caregivers.
An enhanced refresher on discounted net present value computations with an additional focus on risk and uncertainty
Authors: Foley Maggie , Wang Shuangjin
Published: May 2024

Discounted present value (DPV) calculations have appeared in textbooks as well as numerous peer‐reviewed journal articles. Such articles address a wide variety of topics/issues, ranging from migration to educational pursuit to investment in new plant and equipment to the NFL draft. Recognizing the remarkably versatile and useful tools that the DPV concepts are to valuation and intelligent decision‐making, some years ago, the Harvard Business Review published a discussion by Gallo of the derivation and uses of DPVs (and NPVs). This note extends and corrects the analysis in Gallo so as to make it more accurate and useful to the reader.
Sentinel lymph node detection with indocyanine green and patent blue dye in cervical cancer: A single‐centre feasibility study
Authors: Preston Marta , McBain Rosemary , Rajadevan Niveditha , Jones Antonia , Neesham Deborah , McNally Orla
Published: May 2024

Background

Sentinel lymph node (SLN) dissection has been established as standard of care in many tumours. Its use in early cervical cancer is an area of increasing interest and some studies suggest a high detection rate.

Aim

To explore feasibility of SLN dissection and establish the patient detection rate in women with early cervical cancer.

Materials and Methods

All patients with early cervical cancer, International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) 2018 Stage 1, of any histology who underwent SLN dissection from January 2017 to March 2023 were included. Patients were eligible if they had pelvic confined disease; no suspicious lymph nodes on pre‐operative imaging or intra‐operatively; tumours <4 cm at the time of surgery and no contra‐indications to surgery. Patients were excluded if there was a known allergy to dye or less than six months follow‐up data.

Results

Sixty‐two patients were included in the study and 53% had FIGO stage 1b1 disease. The overall bilateral SLN detection rate was 89%, and the side‐specific rate was 94%. Where indocyanine green (ICG) was used alone, the bilateral detection rate was 87% and the side‐specific rate was 93%. Where ICG was used with patent blue dye (PTB) the bilateral detection rate was 92% and the side‐specific rate was 96%. Where PTB was used alone the bilateral detection rate was 85% and the side‐specific rate was 92%. The node positive rate was 6% (7/124) which included isolated tumour cells in four patients.

Conclusion

SLN dissection with ICG or PTB is feasible in early‐stage cervical cancer.
Preparedness and training needs of a regional public mental health service to support people with intellectual disability
Authors: Spong Jo , Iacono Teresa , Weise Janelle , Trollor Julian , Spong Lisa , Lenten Tim
Published: May 2024

Objective

To explore the preparedness and training needs of a regional public mental health workforce to support people with intellectual disability and mental ill health.

Setting and Participants

Staff from a regional public mental health service in Victoria, Australia.

Design

A mixed‐methods design comprised a survey, interviews and a focus group to collect data about staff attitudes, confidence, education and professional development regarding supporting people with intellectual disability and mental ill health. Descriptive and thematic analyses were used.

Results

Data from 31 survey respondents, seven interviews and one focus group were analysed. Survey descriptive analyses showed participants believed treating people with intellectual disability was part of their role but reported areas of low confidence along with insufficient education and training in intellectual disability mental health. Thematic analyses from interviews showed that underpinning confidence, education and training were the themes (1) need for flexibility, such as having more time and (2) solutions but with challenges, such as limited opportunity to upskill and availability of experts. A need for collaborative problem‐solving where staff share skills and information to work towards person‐centred solutions was a key theme from the focus group analysis.

Conclusion

Professional development in intellectual disability mental health is required for the regional public mental health workforce but needs to account for the challenges experienced and reflect how teams function. Exploration of described preparedness offered a possible learning approach informed by workforce members. Collaborative learning approaches to supporting people with intellectual disability and mental ill health are suggested.
A Postcolonial Marxist Critique of the River‐as‐Subject: Situating the Atrato River in Its Development Aporias
Authors: Melo‐Ascencio Diego Alejandro
Published: May 2024

In 2016, Colombia's Constitutional Court declared the Atrato River a subject with rights and named the river's environmental stewards. This article traces how various actors co‐produced the ruling and critically engages scholarly calls to theorise a river‐as‐subject ontology. Centring postcolonial Marxist perspectives, the piece illuminates how power operates through the Rights of Nature discourse and theorises that the river‐as‐subject builds on and creates racialised development aporias: non‐passages beyond the hegemony of the state, capital, and development discourse and double‐binds for environmental justice struggles. Unpacking how the plaintiffs built the case and the river stewards navigated the ruling's first five years, I show that mining‐induced river degradation unfolds through (i) the fraught promise of justice in the Colombian Constitution, (ii) the naturalisation of collective legal personhood as “bio‐cultural rights”, and (iii) the inclusionary exclusion of river stewards from policy discussions about large‐scale mining enclosures and alluvial gold exploitation.
Weight status changes from childhood to adulthood were associated with cardiometabolic outcomes in adulthood
Authors: Huang Jia‐Shuan , Lu Min‐Shan , Ramakrishnan Rema , Gao Chang , Zheng Si‐Yu , Yang Kun , Guo Yi‐Xin , Lu Jin‐Hua , Qiu Xiu , He Jian‐Rong
Published: May 2024

Aim

Few studies have assessed the association between weight changes from childhood to adulthood and cardiometabolic factors in adulthood. The aim of this study was to explore the relationships between weight changes from childhood to adulthood and cardiometabolic factors in adulthood using national Chinese data.

Methods

We included 649 participants from the China Health and Nutrition Survey from 1989 to 2009 and divided them into four groups by their body mass index from 6 to 37 years of age. They were selected using multistage random cluster sampling from 15 areas with large variations in economic and social development. Poisson regression models assessed associations between weight status changes and cardiometabolic outcomes in adulthood.

Results

The risk of multiple abnormal cardiometabolic outcomes in adulthood was increased in the 126 subjects with normal weight in childhood but overweight or obesity in adulthood and the 28 with obesity at both ages, compared to the 462 with normal weight at both ages. There was insufficient evidence to demonstrate that the 33 who had weight issues as children, but not as adults, had an increased risk.

Conclusion

Being overweight or obese in both childhood and adulthood or during adulthood only increased the risk of abnormal cardiometabolic outcomes in adulthood. Larger studies need to investigate whether weight problems in childhood, but not adulthood, increase the risk.
Letter: Potential confounders might exaggerate the risk of rheumatoid arthritis in patients with microscopic colitis
Authors: Yan Fang , Shi Pengshuang , Wu Shimin , Yang Jie , Cui Dejun
Published: May 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Bergman et al. papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17708 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18018.