bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Greenwashing practices and ESG reporting: an international review
Authors: Ben Mahjoub Lassaad
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study provides an overview of the numerous theoretical facets of greenwashing (GW) and their relationship with sustainability, social responsibility and sustainable development. This study highlights the actions of governments and international organizations in GW. It delves into the sins of GW and the various metrics used in the literature to measure them. It seeks to distinguish between sustainability reporting and GW practices by offering a critical perspective on GW.

Design/methodology/approach

This study measures GW practices at the international level and compares them with the ESG disclosure score. The main determinants of GW are assessed by examining the impact of a set of variables on GW. The influence of various sources used to gather the data were assessed using multiple regression analysis.

Findings

Factors such as protocols and conventions, media role and the strength of environmental policies have a considerable and positive impact on the occurrence of GW.

Research limitations/implications

Owing to the research method chosen for measuring variables such as GW scores, procedures for measuring GW in companies should be developed. Multicriteria modeling could be a suitable approach to address the sorting or portfolio approach.

Originality/value

This study provides a theoretical basis for examining GW from a business-economic standpoint. It presents various perspectives on GW, analyzes relevant theories and explores potential GW strategies. This study highlights the connection between GW and various factors, including the influence of conventions, role of the media and strength of environmental policies.
How can I trust you if you’re fake? Understanding human-like virtual influencer credibility and the role of textual social cues
Authors: Yoo Joon Woo , Park Junsung , Park Heejun
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study explores the influence of textual social cues on virtual influencers' perceived attractiveness, homophily and credibility, and their impact on consumers' purchase intentions. The moderating role of perceived anthropomorphism is also assessed.

Design/methodology/approach

A randomized between-subjects experiment with 265 participants (134 low social cue/131 high social cue) was conducted. Participants viewed a fictional virtual influencer’s social media profile and post, then completed a survey. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) analysis was used to examine the effects of textual social cues on attractiveness, attitude homophily, credibility and purchase intention as well as the moderating role of perceived anthropomorphism.

Findings

The study found that textual social cues directly influence attractiveness and attitude homophily, which significantly impact virtual influencer credibility. Credibility, in turn, strongly predicted purchase intention.

Practical implications

Incorporating textual social cues into a virtual influencer’s profile to create a likable persona can help overcome the novelty effect and build lasting relationships with followers. Marketers should use textual cues, like emojis and self-disclosure, to enhance marketing effectiveness and select virtual influencers aligned with their target audience.

Originality/value

This study is among the first to explore the role of textual social cues in virtual influencers, extending the source credibility model and social information processing theory to the influencer marketing context.
Objectives pursued by European football clubs: compete for income through victories and media exposure
Authors: Garcia-del-Barrio Pedro , Rossi Giambattista
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The paper aims to revisit the debate on the priorities of football clubs in talent hiring with respect to maximizing sporting performance or economic profitability. Based on the degree of media exposure of the clubs, we examine whether the clubs’ objectives include, in addition to the classic twofold choice, the aspiration of club managers to gain popularity through media exposure.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper applies structural equation modelling (path analysis) techniques to re-examine what is the more realistic description of football club owners’ decisions when hiring talent. Our database comprises teams from the first division of four top European football leagues: 80 observations per season during the pre-COVID period spanning from 2009/10 to 2017/18.

Findings

The results suggest that, when recruiting players, in addition to considering the two classic objectives (wins and profits), club owners also seem to aim expanding the media exposure and popularity of their clubs. Our study reveals that, to explain talent-hiring decisions in football, the ability to attract media attention is as crucial as sporting performance could be. Furthermore, by examining the direct, indirect and total effects on annual revenue, we found that our media visibility index performs a mediation effect connecting sports performance and revenue.

Originality/value

An innovative feature of our analysis is the use of the MERIT media visibility index, which jointly captures the on-field and off-field players’ skills. The consistency and robustness of the results derive from the various specifications of the estimated models.
Functioning in the hot seat: exploring the competencies of police incident commanders
Authors: Ferguson Lorna , Huey Laura , Kalyal Hina , Andersen Judith P.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Incident commanders (ICs) are senior police officials tasked with being the key operational decision-makers and leading a command team during major, critical and public order incidents (e.g. bomb threats, hostage situations and protests). Such events are often characterized by heavy time pressures and little information, requiring a highly skilled, integrated emergency response across multiple agencies and significant police planning, organizing and management. ICs must possess the necessary skills, traits and behaviors to deal with such incidents and their challenges. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to identify the competencies of ICs.

Design/methodology/approach

We conducted a thematic analysis of thirty-eight (n = 38) in-depth interviews with police personnel who have professional experience as ICs.

Findings

Results provided information on the competencies important for effective incident command, including a range of skills, traits and behaviors these police personnel should exhibit, such as command presence, decision-making, confidence, risk assessment, teamwork, task management, stress management, humility and others.

Originality/value

We provide a novel literature contribution by proposing a framework of police IC competencies and their interrelatedness based on first-hand interviews with experts in the field. Practitioners and policymakers need to know actionable strategies for developing standardized training and assessment curricula for ICs. The next steps are to delineate what skills, traits and behaviors are trainable and need to be selected for at the time of recruitment (e.g. occupational aptitude, personality). We provide the foundation upon which researchers and practitioners can make actionable decisions on moving forward to attain these important goals.
Mass exodus? Police officer turnover intention and organizational commitment in New York City
Authors: Quick Kenneth M. , Wolff Kevin T.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study assesses the relationship between job satisfaction, perceived organizational support and workplace factors on officer turnover intention within an urban, municipal police organization.

Design/methodology/approach

Using data from an online survey of New York City Police Officers (n = 1,823), both bivariate analysis and logistic regression models were utilized to assess the salience of police officer job satisfaction, perceived organizational support and perception of six workplace domains, including financial compensation, environmental factors, professional fulfillment, work/quality of life balance, treatment from management and occupational risk, on predicting turnover intention.

Findings

The cross-sectional study finds that job satisfaction, financial factors (salary, benefits and retirement benefits) and fulfillment predict lower levels of turnover intention (i.e. higher levels of organizational commitment). Work–life balance and environmental factors (cleanliness of work environment and condition of equipment) predict higher levels of turnover intention. Both perceptions of organizational support and occupational risk, while significant in the bivariate models, were not significantly associated after accounting for other factors. There is no evidence that officer perception of public support or the risk of being injured/killed at work were related to officer turnover intention.

Research limitations/implications

The current study is limited by its focus on only one police department and its use of cross-sectional data, which may limit the generalizability of the results to agencies that differ in size and type and do not allow for assessment of causality.

Practical implications

Officer turnover intention may be reduced by increasing financial compensation, improving the work environment and promoting a healthy work–life balance.

Originality/value

The study contributes to a growing body of research on police officer voluntary turnover by evaluating established predictors along with workplace factors in an urban police department: the setting where officer turnover intention is hypothesized to be the greatest.
Knowledge sharing among academics in higher education: a qualitative approach
Authors: Fan Zhenyu , Beh Loo-See
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Higher education institutions are the contemporary embodiment of knowledge-intensive organizations. The role of knowledge sharing among academics in enhancing teaching, research and innovation performance cannot be overlooked. However, a paucity of studies were devoted to uncovering the influencing factors of knowledge sharing among academics in China. This study aims to dig into the factors that influence academics’ knowledge-sharing behaviors in the context of Chinese higher education.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 academics from universities across various regions in China by using a combination of convenience, snowball and purposive sampling methods. Thematic analysis was used where data sets were examined according to the initial categorization of factors based on a review of the literature while new factors were searched based on frequency of re-occurrence.

Findings

Perceived loss of power and time and effort significantly hinder knowledge sharing whereas expected self-development and association are major catalysts of knowledge sharing. The organizational climate in higher education is featured by competition and individualism, which is not conducive to knowledge sharing while affiliation and trust are essential for cultivating a pro-sharing environment. Technological tools are perceived as user-friendly and useful in facilitating knowledge sharing, but doubts were raised about the effectiveness of online knowledge sharing compared to face-to-face communication.

Originality/value

Deviating from the conventional quantitative approach, this study provides novelty insights on this topic by revealing some less-investigated factors of knowledge sharing among Chinese academics by taking the qualitative approach.
Two weeks of exercise alters neuronal extracellular vesicle insulin signaling proteins and pro‐BDNF in older adults with prediabetes
Authors: Malin Steven K. , Battillo Daniel J. , Beeri Michal S. , Mustapic Maja , Delgado‐Peraza Francheska , Kapogiannis Dimitrios
Published: October 2024

Adults with prediabetes are at risk for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementia (ADRD). While exercise may lower ADRD risk, the exact mechanism is unclear. We tested the hypothesis that short‐term exercise would raise neuronal insulin signaling and pro‐BDNF in neuronal extracellular vesicles (nEVs) in prediabetes. Twenty‐one older adults (18F, 60.0 ± 8.6 yrs.; BMI: 33.5 ± 1.1 kg/m2) with prediabetes (ADA criteria; 75 g OGTT) were randomized to 12 supervised work‐matched continuous (n = 13, 70% HRpeak) or interval (n = 8, 90% HRpeak and 50% HRpeak for 3 min each) sessions over 2‐wks for 60 min/d. Aerobic fitness (VO2peak) and body weight were assessed. After an overnight fast, whole‐body glucose tolerance (total area under the curve, tAUC) and insulin sensitivity (SIis) were determined from a 120 min 75 g OGTT. nEVs were acquired from 0 and 60 min time‐points of the OGTT, and levels of insulin signaling proteins (i.e., p‐IRS‐1, total−/p‐Akt, pERK1/2, pJNK1/2, and pp38) and pro‐BNDF were measured. OGTT stimulatory effects were calculated from protein differences (i.e., OGTT 60‐0 min). Adults were collapsed into a single group as exercise intensity did not affect nEV outcomes. Exercise raised VO2peak (+1.4 ± 2.0 mL/kg/min, p = 0.008) and insulin sensitivity (p = 0.01) as well as decreased weight (−0.4 ± 0.9 kg, p = 0.04) and whole‐body glucose tAUC120min (p = 0.02). Training lowered 0‐min pro‐BDNF (704.1 ± 1019.0 vs. 414.5 ± 533.5, p = 0.04) and increased OGTT‐stimulated tAkt (−51.8 ± 147.2 vs. 95 ± 204.5 a.u., p = 0.01), which was paralleled by reduced pAkt/tAkt at 60 min of the OGTT (1.3 ± 0.2 vs. 1.2 ± 0.1 a.u., p = 0.04). Thus, 2 weeks of exercise altered neuronal insulin signaling responses to glucose ingestion and lowered pro‐BNDF among adults with prediabetes, thereby potentially lowering ADRD risk.
Modelling Tree Allometries to Understand the Impact of African Savannah Elephant Herbivory Dynamics on the Vegetation Structure and Tree Cover Change in a Protected Area
Authors: Mukomberanwa Nobert Tafadzwa , Taru Phillip , Utete Beaven , Ngorima Patmore
Published: October 2024

In landscapes with high elephant density, trees often exhibit more open canopies with fewer branches and foliage due to browsing pressure. This can result in altered tree morphology, with trees exhibiting stunted growth, multiple stems or unusual branching patterns in response to repeated damage from browsing. The objectives of this research were to (i) model the vegetation structure allometries, (ii) assess the impact of African savannah elephant (Loxodonta africana) herbivory on the vegetation structure and (iii) assess tree cover change and vegetation performance over time in Mana Pools National Park in Zimbabwe. We established 26 plots of 30 × 30 m size. Selection of sampling plots was done following several steps. First, a fish net grid with 30 × 30 m polygons was created and projected on the polygon of Mana Pools National Park. The polygons for exclusion zones were then clipped from the fish net grid using the clip tool in ArcGIS Pro 3.0. Then, selection of sampling plots was done initially by stratified random sampling using the Sampling Design Tool add in for ArcGIS Pro 3.0. Landsat images for the years 2003, 2013 and 2023 were used to assess land use land cover (LULC) time series and to calculate Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI) for the period. A generalised linear model (GLM) was used to analyse tree allometries. Further statistical investigations were performed using Bayesian piecewise regression (BPR) and Bayesian regression modelling (BRM). Basal area, number of stems, height, long canopy, diameter and basal circumference were all significantly different (p < 0.05) across all sampled plots. The change in growing conditions occurring as a tree grows beyond the reach of the African savannah elephant browsing indicates a natural system breakpoint. The best‐fitting models were a simple linear model and a two breakpoint model for the plant population exposed to elephant herbivory. LULC, NDVI and SAVI confirm evidence of high tree regeneration over 2 decades. Understanding the dynamics in vegetation and LULC changes is critical for effective conservation and management of the habitats for African savannah elephants, as well as for maintaining the health and resilience of forest ecosystems.
Association between volume and cost in low‐resection volume regions: a population‐level study on pancreatoduodenectomy for pancreatic cancer patients
Authors: Li Ling , Aryal Nanda , Ackermann Khalia , Merrett Neil , Richardson Arthur , Westbrook Johanna I , Dunn Susan , Lam Vincent
Published: October 2024

Background

Pancreatoduodenectomy (PD) is a highly complex, invasive, and costly surgical procedure. Limited evidence on the PD volume‐cost relationship in countries with a low population density exists. This study aimed to investigate this issue in Australia.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included pancreatic cancer patients who had a PD at any public hospital in New South Wales, Australia between 2016 and 2019. The primary outcome was the total hospital cost during PD admission (not including patient financial burden). Study hospitals were grouped into low‐volume hospitals (LVHs; <10 PDs per annum) or high‐volume hospitals (HVHs). Multivariable modelling was applied to examine the association between volume and cost.

Results

Of 443 PDs, the median total hospital cost per patient at HVHs was AU$55398; significantly lower than that at LVHs (AU$62859; P = 0.001). After adjusting for available patient and clinical factors, the total cost per patient at LVHs was 22% higher than that of HVHs (adjusted estimate: 1.22, 95% CI: 1.08–1.37; P = 0.002). Similar patterns were found in three main cost components: 24% higher employee cost at LVHs than at HVHs (1.24, 95% CI: 1.10–1.41; P < 0.001), 15% higher operating cost (1.15, 95% CI: 1.00–1.31; P = 0.047), and 31% higher other costs (1.31, 95% CI: 1.12–1.53; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Performance of PDs at HVHs was associated with substantially lower hospital costs. Our findings demonstrate the likely economic benefit of centralizing PDs in countries with a relatively low population density. Future studies should investigate related patient financial burdens.
Chronotypes in middle‐aged women with polycystic ovary syndrome: A population‐based study
Authors: Kroneld Linnea , Polo‐Kantola Päivi , Ollila Meri‐Maija , Arffman Riikka K. , Hurskainen Elisa , Morin‐Papunen Laure , Jokimaa Varpu , Piltonen Terhi T.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Circadian rhythm disruption has been associated with the risk of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), as the evening chronotype (EC) shares several traits with PCOS, including metabolic disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and psychiatric disorders. It has been suggested that the biological clock could be targeted with new, preventive, and therapeutic strategies for PCOS in women with biorhythm disorders. We evaluated inner circadian rhythmicity in middle‐aged women with PCOS in a population‐based setting, focusing on whether women with PCOS and an EC have a specific subtype in relation to their clinical characteristics.

Material and Methods

The data derived from the Northern Finland Birth Cohort, a population‐based longitudinal birth cohort of 12 058 individuals born in 1966. We compared the circadian phenotype between 314 women with PCOS (according to the Rotterdam criteria) and 1248 women without PCOS at age 46 years using the validated Finnish shortened 6‐item Morningness‐Eveningness Questionnaire (sMEQ) and the single‐item self‐assessed morningness‐eveningness question.

Results

PCOS was not associated with the EC by the sMEQ (p = 0.495) or self‐assessment (p = 0.303). The self‐assessed morningness‐eveningness values differed from the sMEQ chronotype distribution (p < 0.001), nevertheless, the most frequent chronotype was the intermediate chronotype (IC) determined by both chronotyping methods (sMEQ PCOS 47.7% vs. 45.2% non‐PCOS; self‐assessment PCOS 66.5% vs. 68.4% non‐PCOS). The hyperandrogenic PCOS phenotypes A–C did not differ from the non‐hyperandrogenic phenotype D as for the chronotype (p = 0.271). The EC was associated in both groups with depressive and anxiety symptoms (PCOS p = 0.012, non‐PCOS p < 0.001) and the use of sleep medication (PCOS p = 0.017, non‐PCOS p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The EC was not over‐represented in middle‐aged women with PCOS or in the hyperandrogenic PCOS phenotypes A–C in our study. This does not support the need for chronotyping in the comprehensive assessment of women with PCOS. However, as chronotypes tend to change with aging, cross‐sectional studies in different age groups are warranted to draw conclusions on the role of chronotypes in PCOS and the associated metabolic risks.
Histone deacetylase 6 inhibition promotes microtubule acetylation and facilitates autophagosome–lysosome fusion in dystrophin‐deficient mdx mice
Authors: Agrawal Akanksha , Clayton Erin L. , Cavazos Courtney L. , Clayton Benjamin A. , Rodney George G.
Published: October 2024

Aim

Duchenne muscular dystrophy is a progressive muscle‐wasting disease caused by mutations in the dystrophin gene. Despite progress in dystrophin‐targeted gene therapies, it is still a fatal disease requiring novel therapeutics that can be used synergistically or alternatively to emerging gene therapy. Defective autophagy and disorganized microtubule networks contribute to dystrophic pathogenesis, yet the mechanisms by which microtubule alterations regulate autophagy remain elusive. The present study was designed to uncover possible mechanisms underpinning the role of microtubules in regulating autophagy in dystrophic mice.

Methods

Mdx mice were also supplemented with Tubastatin A, a pharmacological inhibitor of histone deacetylase 6, and pathophysiology was assessed. Mdx mice with a genetic deletion of the Nox‐2 scaffolding subunit p47phox were used to assess redox dependence on tubulin acetylation.

Results

Our data show decreased acetylation of α‐tubulin with enhanced histone deacetylase 6 expression. Tubastatin A increases tubulin acetylation and Q‐SNARE complex formation but does not alter microtubule organization or density, indicating improved autophagosome–lysosome fusion. Tubastatin A increases the acetylation of peroxiredoxin and protects it from hyper‐oxidation, hence modulating intracellular redox status in mdx mice. Tubastatin A reduces muscle damage and enhances force production. Genetic down regulation of Nox2 activity in the mdx mice promotes autophagosome maturation but not autolysosome formation.

Conclusion

Our data highlight that autophagy is differentially regulated by redox and acetylation in mdx mice. By improving autophagy through promoting tubulin acetylation, Tubastatin A decreases the dystrophic phenotype and improves muscle function, suggesting a great potential for clinical translation and treating dystrophic patients.
Invasive neurophysiological recordings in human basal ganglia. What have we learned about non‐motor behaviour?
Authors: Sanchez Ana Maria Alzate , Roberts Mark J. , Temel Yasin , Janssen Marcus L. F.
Published: October 2024

Research into the function of deep brain structures has benefited greatly from microelectrode recordings in animals. This has helped to unravel physiological processes in the healthy and malfunctioning brain. Translation to the human is necessary for improving basic understanding of subcortical structures and their implications in diseases. The use of microelectrode recordings as a standard component of deep brain stimulation surgery offers the most viable route for studying the electrophysiology of single cells and local neuronal populations in important deep structures of the human brain. Most of the studies in the basal ganglia have targeted the motor loop and movement disorder pathophysiology. In recent years, however, research has diversified to include limbic and cognitive processes. This review aims to provide an overview of advances in neuroscience made using intraoperative and post‐operative recordings with a focus on non‐motor activity in the basal ganglia.
The Japanese American incarceration and the origins of penology in California: A microhistory
Authors: Knepper Paul
Published: October 2024

The history of academic criminology has been written at a macro‐scale from national and international perspectives. These histories rely on abstract concepts that overlook external events in the formation of criminology. Using a microhistory approach, this article explores the origins of the penology programme established at the Police School of San José State University. Willard Schmidt started the programme in 1946 based on his experience as director of security police at Tule Lake prison camp, a site for incarceration of Japanese Americans during the Second World War. The discussion examines August Vollmer's role in founding the Police School and his opposition to the incarceration, Schmidt's activities at Tule Lake, and how this shaped the first penology programme in California.
Current Status of Nursing Home Distribution in China: A National Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Ge Meng‐Wei , Liu Peng , Shi Hai‐Yan , Li Xiao‐Min , Hu Fei‐Hong , Jia Yi‐Jie , Shen Lu‐Ting , Xia Xiao‐Peng , Chen Hong‐Lin
Published: October 2024

Aims

Population aging is a challenge that the whole world is facing, especially in China. This study aims to investigate the current distribution status of nursing homes in China using spatial epidemiology methods.

Design

Cross‐sectional study in China.

Methods

The data were obtained from the Integrated Civil Affairs Government Service Platform ‘China County Statistical Yearbook’ for 2020 and the ‘China City Statistical Yearbook’ for 2020. Using global Moran's index to test the clustering of nursing homes, inter‐group and intra‐group Theil index was utilised to differentiate the sources of differences. The coupling coordination analysis was conducted to explore the coordination. Geographically weighted regression was utilised to investigate the impact of economic development and aging on nursing home resources. All analyses were conducted by Arcgis 10.8 and R Studio 4.3.2.

Results

Global Moran's index indicated that the distribution of nursing homes in China exhibited clustering. The Theil index values for institutions and beds at the national county were 0.32450 and 0.30675. However, upon comparing provinces and regions, it was found that the differences across the country mainly stem from within provinces (contribution rate: institutions 65.0%; beds 73.0%) and within regions (contribution rate: institutions 99.0%; beds 91.0%). The majority of districts and counties had a coupling coordination index of institutions and bed numbers, both of which were < 0.5.

Conclusion

The development of nursing home resources in China has been rapid, generally presenting a balanced state, but further optimisation is needed. This study established a foundation for the targeted distribution of essential public services, focusing on nursing home healthcare resources tailored to the needs of older persons.

Implications

The study underscored the urgent need for targeted elderly care policies, emphasising the optimisation of resource distribution to enhance the overall quality of care provided to the aging population.

No Patients or Public Contribution

The study did not involve humans.
Evaluation of the performance of nursing students taught using online and offline learning models in emergency and critical care nursing during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Xu Jinmei , Qin Lei , Liu Guijuan , Dator Wireen Leila T. , Fei Suding
Published: October 2024

Aim

The study investigated the outcomes of employing this hybrid method among nursing students engaged in emergency and critical care curricula during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

A retrospective study examined nursing students enrolled in the nursing program in China between January 2019 and January 2021. Students were divided into two groups: a study group that engaged in hybrid learning and a control group that participated in traditional classroom learning. Both groups received identical learning materials and credit hours. The study group assessed online learning via a platform with broadcasting features, while offline sessions occurred in the classroom. Post‐course, groups were compared in knowledge, skill, and homework performance. The study group provided feedback through a reflective questionnaire to pinpoint areas for improvement in their online learning experience.

Results

The analysis involved 1774 nursing students, with 906 in the study group and 868 int the control group. The study group outperformed in homework, individual, and comprehensive skills. Despite 73.7% of the study group citing distractions from surrounding environment, the majority appreciated online learning (853, 96.8%). Regarding the appropriateness of the course materials, foreign body airway obstruction courses are highly rated (721, 81.8%), while invasive hemodynamic monitoring had the least favorability (149, 16.9%). Additionally, 33.0% (291) favored live broadcasting and interactive video teaching during online classes.

Conclusions

The hybrid learning model enhances nursing students' performance in emergency and critical care courses. However, optimization is needed for environmental distraction, specific contents, and communication methods in online learning.
Association of Liver Disease and Chronic Pruritus: A Case–Control Study
Authors: Andrade Luis F. , Haq Zaim , Abdi Parsa , Diaz Michael J. , Levy Cynthia , Yosipovitch Gil
Published: October 2024

Background & Methods

Through the identification of 22 803 cases of chronic pruritus, with a control group comprising 91 212 participants from a national database, we performed a comparative analysis revealing that patients with chronic pruritus had a significantly higher prevalence of liver disease compared to controls.

Results

Upon reverse analysis, we similarly found patients with liver disease had a significantly higher prevalence of chronic pruritus. Subsequent multivariate logistic regression highlighted increased odds for several liver diseases in the pruritus cohort, including metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (aOR 1.65, 95% CI 1.53–1.78) and alcohol‐related liver disease (aOR 1.69, 95% CI 1.43–1.98). The increased odds were most pronounced for hepatitis B (aOR 2.01, 95% CI 1.67–2.42) and cholangitis + primary sclerosing cholangitis + primary biliary cholangitis (aOR 1.81, 95% CI 1.65–1.99).

Conclusion

Our results reveal a strong correlation between pruritus in hepatic pathologies different than commonly reported cholestatic diseases.
Metabolic Dysfunction‐Associated Steatotic Liver Disease Increases the Risk of Severe Infection: A Population‐Based Cohort Study
Authors: Zhao Ming , Han Xinyu , Fan Hong , Liang Chenyu , Wang Haili , Zhang Xin , Zhao Shuzhen , Guo Chengnan , Liu Zhenqiu , Zhang Tiejun
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims

Metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is linked to various intrahepatic and extrahepatic diseases, but its association with severe infectious disease remains to be investigated.

Methods

We analysed data from the Shanghai Suburban Adult Cohort and Biobank, encompassing participants enrolled in 2016 and 2017 with available abdominal ultrasonography data, and followed them up until December 2022 (median follow‐up = 5.71 years). We categorised the participants into the MASLD group and those without steatotic liver disease (non‐SLD). Multivariable‐adjusted Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) for severe infections in patients with MASLD compared to the non‐SLD group. Cumulative incidences were calculated while accounting for competing risks (non‐infection‐related deaths). Mediation analyses were performed to explore the roles of cardiometabolic risk factors in the association between MASLD and severe infections.

Results

Among the 33 072 eligible participants (mean age 56.37 years; 38.20% male), 11 908 (36.01%) were diagnosed with MASLD at baseline. Severe infections occurred in 912 (7.66%) MASLD patients and 1258 (5.94%) non‐SLD. The rate of severe infections per 1000 person‐years was higher in MASLD patients (13.58) than in comparators (10.48) (fully adjusted HR 1.18, 95% CI 1.07–1.30). The most frequent infections in MASLD were respiratory (7.25/1000 person‐years) and urinary tract infections (2.61/1000 person‐years). The 5‐year cumulative incidence of severe infections was 6.79% (95% CI 6.36–7.26) in MASLD and 5.08% (95% CI 4.79–5.38) in comparators. Cardiometabolic risk factors, including waist circumference, triglycerides and HbA1C, partially mediate the association between MASLD and severe infections.

Conclusions

Patients with MASLD were at significantly higher risk of incident severe infections compared to the non‐SLD group. Future studies are needed to elucidate the mechanisms linking MASLD to severe infections.
Cerebral ptosis: An ominous sign in stroke—A retrospective study
Authors: Sasidharan Aswathy , Pranaav S. Arun , Ghafoor P. A. Fazal
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Cerebral ptosis is defined as the drooping of eyelids due to lesions in the cerebral hemispheres. Cerebral ptosis is due to either unilateral or bilateral hemispheric damage without brainstem involvement. Ischemic strokes are the most common etiology leading to hemispheric damage.

Aims

To assess the prevalence of cerebral ptosis in ischemic strokes and to correlate the presence of cerebral ptosis with the outcome of the patients. To also assess the demographic profile of these patients.

Materials and Methods

This is a retrospective study from June 2022 to August 2024. All patients diagnosed as acute stroke presenting with cerebral ptosis within day 3 of stroke were included. Patients with a reduced level of consciousness, brainstem involvement, and those with signs of impending herniation were excluded. The modified Rankin scale (mRS) on the day of admission and the day of discharge were compared.

Results

There were 26 patients with cerebral ptosis among 649 patients admitted with anterior circulation stroke (prevalence 4.01%). 84.6% (n = 12) had right hemisphere involvement and 15.4% (n = 4) had left side involvement. 88.5% (n− = 23) had middle cerebral artery territory involvement and 7.7% (n = 2) had internal carotid artery territory involvement. The mean mRS on admission was 4.42 and 4.81 on discharge (paired t‐test 0.015). mRS 6 (death) was observed in four patients.

Conclusion

Cerebral ptosis is a supranuclear disorder with the most common etiology being vascular insult to the cerebral hemisphere. It is an ominous and rare clinical sign. Identification of this entity is important, and it is not to be confused with a reduced level of consciousness.
FIGL1 attenuates meiotic interhomolog repair and is counteracted by the RAD51 paralog XRCC2 and the chromosome axis protein ASY1 during meiosis
Authors: Emmenecker Côme , Pakzad Simine , Ture Fatou , Guerin Julie , Hurel Aurélie , Chambon Aurélie , Girard Chloé , Mercier Raphael , Kumar Rajeev
Published: October 2024

Two recombinases, RAD51 and DMC1, catalyze meiotic break repair to ensure crossovers (COs) between homologous chromosomes (interhomolog) rather than between sisters (intersister). FIDGETIN‐LIKE‐1 (FIGL1) downregulates both recombinases. However, the understanding of how FIGL1 functions in meiotic repair remains limited. Here, we discover new genetic interactions of Arabidopsis thaliana FIGL1 that are important in vivo determinants of meiotic repair outcome.

In figl1 mutants, compromising RAD51‐dependent repair, either through the loss of RAD51 paralogs (RAD51B or XRCC2) or RAD54 or by inhibiting RAD51 catalytic activity, results in either unrepaired breaks or meiotic CO defects. Further, XRCC2 physically interacts with FIGL1 and partially counteracts FIGL1 activity for RAD51 focus formation. Our data indicate that RAD51‐mediated repair mechanisms compensate FIGL1 dysfunction.

FIGL1 is not necessary for intersister repair in dmc1 but is essential for the completion of meiotic repair in mutants such as asy1 that have impaired DMC1 functions and interhomolog bias. We show that FIGL1 attenuates interhomolog repair, and ASY1 counteracts FIGL1 to promote interhomolog recombination.

Altogether, this study underlines that multiple factors can counteract FIGL1 activity to promote accurate meiotic repair.
A Core set of patient‐reported outcome measures to measure quality of life in obesity treatment research
Authors: Dijkhorst Phillip J. , de Vries Claire E. E. , Terwee Caroline B. , Janssen Ignace M. C. , Liem Ronald S. L. , van Wagensveld Bart A. , Ottosson Johan , Halpern Bruno , Flint Stuart W. , van Rossum Elisabeth F. C. , Saadi Alend , West‐Smith Lisa , O'Kane Mary , Halford Jason C. G. , Coulman Karen D. , Al‐Sabah Salman , Dixon John B. , Brown Wendy A. , Salas Ximena Ramos , Hoogbergen Maarten M. , Abbott Sally , Budin Alyssa J. , Holland Jennifer F. , Poulsen Lotte , Welbourn Richard , Ruanova Bernardo Rea , Morton John M. , Pattou Francois , Akpinar Erman O. , Sogg Stephanie , Himpens Jacques M. , Osborne Vanessa , Wijling Natasja , Divine Laura , Isack Nadya , Birney Susie , Keenan J. M. Bernadette , Nadglowski Joe , Bowman Jacqueline , Clare Ken , Meloni Riccardo , de Blaeij Sandra , Kyle Theodore K. , Bahlke Melanie , Healing Andrew , Patton Ian , Monpellier Valerie M.
Published: October 2024

The lack of standardization in patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) has made measurement and comparison of quality of life (QoL) outcomes in research focused on obesity treatment challenging. This study reports on the results of the second and third global multidisciplinary Standardizing Quality of life measures in Obesity Treatment (S.Q.O.T.) consensus meetings, where a core set of PROMs to measure nine previously selected patient‐reported outcomes (PROs) in obesity treatment research was established.

The S.Q.O.T. II online and S.Q.O.T. III face‐to‐face hybrid consensus meetings were held in October 2021 and May 2022. The meetings were led by an independent moderator specializing in PRO measurement. Nominal group techniques, Delphi exercises, and anonymous voting were used to select the most suitable PROMs by consensus. The meetings were attended by 28 and 27 participants, respectively, including a geographically diverse selection of people living with obesity (PLWO) and experts from various disciplines.

Out of 24 PROs and 16 PROMs identified in the first S.Q.O.T. consensus meeting, the following nine PROs and three PROMs were selected via consensus: BODY‐Q (physical function, physical symptoms, psychological function, social function, eating behavior, and body image), IWQOL‐Lite (self‐esteem), and QOLOS (excess skin). No PROM was selected to measure stigma as existing PROMs deemed to be inadequate.

A core set of PROMs to measure QoL in research focused on obesity treatment has been selected incorporating patients' and experts' opinions. This core set should serve as a minimum to use in obesity research studies and can be combined with clinical parameters.
Improvement in Atopic Dermatitis and Recurrent Infection With Dupilumab in Children With Distinct Genetic Types of Hyper‐IgE Syndrome: A Case Series and Literature Review
Authors: Dick Jenna K. , Boull Christina , Pozos Tamara C. , Maguiness Sheilagh M.
Published: October 2024

Hyperimmunoglobulin E syndrome (HIES) is a group of rare genetic disorders characterized by severe atopic dermatitis and recurrent skin and pulmonary infections. The efficacy of dupilumab in pediatric patients with HIES‐associated severe atopic dermatitis is relatively understudied. Here, we present a series of three children with HIES, two with AD‐HIES caused by STAT3 mutations, and one with AR‐HIES caused by biallelic mutations in ZNF341. In all cases, dupilumab treatment led to sustained clearance of severe atopic dermatitis over multiple years, as well as improvements in systemic symptoms of HIES.
Pediatric Dermatology eConsultation in Academic Centers: A Collaborative Model for Optimized Outpatient Care
Authors: Crockett Jessica L. , Cordoro Kelly M.
Published: October 2024

Background/Objective

The demand for pediatric dermatology services in the U.S. is high, especially at large academic healthcare centers. eConsultation programs provide a solution to poor in‐person access by offering diagnostic and management support to primary care providers (PCPs). To determine the real‐world utility of eConsultation in pediatric dermatology within a closed system at a major academic center, we assessed the outcomes, diagnostic and management concordance, and predictors of eConsult completion of an asynchronous provider‐to‐provider pediatric dermatology eConsult program.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of 900 consecutive outpatient pediatric dermatology eConsult referrals from PCPs at a tertiary academic center from 2017 to 2021.

Results

Of 900 eConsult referrals, 621 (69%) were completed without the need for in‐person dermatology follow‐up. 46 (5%) were completed but required follow‐up. 233 eConsult referrals (26%) were declined, primarily due to medical complexity. Thirty referrals (3%) were declined because of inadequate clinical photos. The PCP communicated eConsult recommendations to the patient/family on an average of 1.6 days (SD 3) after receiving the completed eConsult. eConsults for adolescents were less likely to be completed compared to infants (p = 0.03). Diagnostic and management concordance between PCP and dermatologist was 78% and 67%, respectively.

Conclusions

Provider‐to‐provider eConsultation provides rapid speciality guidance to PCPs managing low‐complexity skin conditions in pediatric outpatients. The lower rate of management plan concordance compared to diagnostic concordance suggests that eConsultation improves outpatient skin management by PCPs.
Inhibition sensitivity of in vitro firefly bioluminescence quantum yields to Zn2+ and Cd2+ concentrations in aqueous solutions
Authors: Ono Ryohei , Saito Keisuke , Tezuka Daisuke , Yoshii Sakura , Kobayashi Masataka , Akiyama Hidefumi , Koga Nobuaki , Itabashi Hideyuki , Hiyama Miyabi
Published: October 2024

To elucidate the inhibition effects of Zn2+ and Cd2+ on the luciferin–luciferase reaction, we performed quantitative measurements of quantum yields and spectral shapes for in vitro firefly bioluminescence in aqueous solutions containing ZnSO4, ZnCl2, CdSO4, and CdCl2 at different concentrations. Particular care was taken toward the equilibrium between metal ions and enzyme proteins, anion difference, solubility, and uncertainty evaluation. The bioluminescence quantum yields decreased almost linearly to the concentration of Zn2+ and Cd2+ below 0.25 mM. No obvious difference was found between the chloride and sulfate anion solutions. We defined inhibition sensitivity as the decrease in relative quantum yield versus the concentration of metal ions, and they were determined to be 1.48 ± 0.13 and 1.13 ± 0.16/mM for Zn2+ and Cd2+, respectively. We estimated the detection limit of inhibition effects as the concentration of metal ions that decrease relative quantum yields by 10%, which were 0.07 mM (4 ppm) and 0.09 mM (10 ppm) for Zn2+ and Cd2+, respectively. The shape of the bioluminescence spectra changed sensitively with the increase in Zn2+ concentrations. The bioluminescence peak energy for 0.10‐mM Zn2+ was ~2.2 eV, while that for 0.25‐mM Zn2+ was ~2.0 eV. The shape of the spectra changed less sensitively with the increase in Cd2+concentrations, and the peak energy was at ~2.2 eV for Cd2+ concentrations of 0.10 and 0.25 mM.
The Outsider in a Nation: Rudolf Rocker, Nationalism, and Generative Linguistics
Authors: Lobina David J.
Published: October 2024

In Nationalism and Culture, now a largely forgotten book, the anarchist thinker Rudolf Rocker offers a compelling account of the nationalist phenomenon, from its origins and development to its influence (or lack thereof) over the linguistic and cultural practices of the large groups of people that typically encompass a nation‐state. The present paper aims to revisit and update Rocker's book, highlighting its relevance and potential contribution to the modern study of nationalism. In particular, I employ the tools of Noam Chomsky's generative study of language to characterise the roles language and culture play in the formation of national identities, in so doing unearthing some of the psychological underpinnings of nationalist beliefs and thus, furthermore, clarifying the actual effects of nationalist policies on language, culture, and artistic creativity.
ASSESSMENT OF HEAVY METAL ACCUMULATION IN THE STRAITS OF JOHOR: A COMPREHENSIVE STUDY ON WATER, SEDIMENT, AND AQUATIC ORGANISMS
Authors: Anayet Abila Hena , Abdullah Zawawi Mohd Asadi , Azman Shamila , A Rahman Nur Afifah , Md Zin Mazni
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the Johor Straits' marine water quality in the vicinity of Kampung Pasir Putih. Aquatic life and aquaculture operations are at risk due to the negative consequences of land use changes and increased discharge of household, agricultural, and industrial waste, as the investigation found. The distribution and concentration levels of heavy metals (Zn, Cu, Cd, and Pb) in crabs, mussels, and sediment samples were particularly investigated in this study. For Zn, Cu, Cd, and Pb, the corresponding mean concentration values in the entire body of the crabs and mussels were 60.4 to 256.5 mg/g, 21.8 to 50.3 mg/g, 1.6 to 4.5 mg/g, and 8.2 to 23.7 mg/g dry weight. Zn and Cu continuously had greater concentrations than the other elements, although the distribution patterns of these metals differed between sampling stations. The average amounts of heavy metals in the sediment samples ranged from 17.7 to 147.1 mg/g, 17.7 to 155 mg/g, 2.4 to 5.3 mg/g, and 9.8 to 14.5 mg/g dry weight for zinc, copper, lead, and mercury, in that order. The study showed that when development increases, water quality decreases and marine organisms accumulate more heavy metals. The range of dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations, varying from 1.36 to 6.71 mg/L, exhibited a correlation with the accumulation of heavy metals.
MECHANICAL AND PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS OF SEMI-RIGID MIX DESIGN WITH RECYCLED MATERIALS AND STANDARDIZATION OF RUT DEPTH MEASUREMENTS
Authors: Jafri Syed Faraz , Memon Naeem Aziz , Memon Rizwan Ali , Sheeraz Khawaja
Published: October 2024

Pavement industry requires substantial modifications in terms of materials. Stakeholders are in need to opt the solutions of semi-rigid design mix with recycled materials. Necessary evaluations in terms of experimental measures are initially required to represent characteristics properties. Moreover, the behavior to be assessed is rut depth measurements through the implications of wheel tracker apparatus and in accordance with prescribed standards. The mix with specified curing days is being differentiated through subsequent directions focusing choice of recycled materials. The paper presents a model to excel distinguished properties inclusive of the analysis for maintaining air voids, induction of grouting material and stability. The output-oriented data is justified within the enumerations of rut depths for grouted samples. It is analyzed for 25%, 30% and 35% air voids in conditioned to fresh and recycled aggregates. The deliberations are meant with 91 and 13 sample combinations of aggregates and hot mix asphalt respectively followed by the significant tests on bitumen and grouting material.  It is observed that critical samples are passed in the configurations of rut depths when processed with reclaimed and construction waste materials at 35% voids. The research data entails its affectivity due to the uniqueness in superior model of current scenario.