bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blockchain in sustainable supply chain management: an application of the analytical hierarchical process (AHP) methodology
Authors: Fernandez-Vazquez Simon , Rosillo Rafael , de la Fuente David , Puente Javier
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The analytical hierarchical process (AHP)’s main purpose is to assess higher hierarchy levels based on the cooperation of its various levels. It results in a well-designed model-based method in which the weights for the selected attribute are calculated using dimensions, criteria, and indicators. This paper aims to highlight the benefits of blockchain in supply chain management with the help of a literature review along with opinions of experts from various sectors.

Design/methodology/approach

With the goal of enhancing the use of blockchain technology in supply chain management, particularly when comparing within the same industry, the AHP methodology has been used. In order to develop the AHP model, a total of eight elements are examined in this study, which are decentralization, resiliency, security, smart contracts, sustainability, traceability, transparency and trust. A calculation of a Desirability Index for conventional supply chain and blockchain-enabled supply chains has been also developed.

Findings

Findings where that in a blockchain-enabled supply chain, the global weights of individual benefit variables are considerably larger than in conventional supply chains. When the score of the Desirability Index for conventional supply chain and blockchain-enabled supply chain is compared, the blockchain-enabled supply chain significantly surpasses the conventional supply chain in terms of increasing sustainable development in today’s supply networks.

Originality/value

This study takes into account the AHP methodology applying it on blockchain. This has not been done before in the academic world, at least as far as the authors may be aware of. The originality of combining such process with a recent technology such as blockchain highlights the value of this research.
Neural network based harmonic elimination in single-phase inverters
Authors: Duranay Zeynep Bala
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This study aims to present the experimental results for neural network (NN) based harmonic elimination technique for single-phase inverters.

Design/methodology/approach

Switching angles applied to power switches are determined using the NN technique based on the harmonics to be suppressed. Thus, besides controlling the output voltage, NN controller provides elimination of predetermined harmonics from output signal of single-phase inverter. Simulation and experimental results for the elimination of 15 and 20 low-order harmonics are presented. The switching angle values calculated by a NN , fuzzy logic and Newton–Raphson are compared for elimination of first 10 harmonics.

Findings

This paper provides the harmonic spectra showing that first 15 and 20 harmonics are suppressed from output signal. The NN is proved to give closest results to angle values calculated by Newton–Raphson’s numerical solution method.

Originality/value

The value of this paper is to verify the simulation results with the experimental result for the elimination of 15 and 20 low-order harmonics. Both the simulation and the experimental results demonstrate the success of the NN based selected harmonic elimination.
The role of the hedonistic and utilitarian quality dimensions in enhancing user satisfaction in mobile banking
Authors: Rejman Petrović Dragana , Nedeljković Ivana , Marinković Veljko
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the components of the utilitarian and hedonistic dimensions of the quality of mobile banking services, their impact on customer satisfaction, as well as the effects of satisfaction on word of mouth (WOM) and intention to use.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis includes 307 mobile banking users in the Republic of Serbia. Reliability analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, structural equation modelling and multigroup analysis are applied in the paper.

Findings

The results show that security/privacy, perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, design and enjoyment are important drivers of customer satisfaction, and that satisfaction has very strong effects on WOM and intention to use. In addition, there are apparent differences in the relationships between the two groups of respondents observed: innovators and followers.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper lies in the innovative model that includes a combination of the TAM model and the utilitarian/hedonistic dimension of the quality of mobile banking services. An element of the study which is of particular value is its segmentation of customers into innovators and followers – dividing respondents into two groups depending on whether they are among the first people in their environment to start using mobile banking services.
Mind the gap: public equity as a financing solution for medium-sized enterprises and the influence of national culture
Authors: Koch Lisa Paula , Crossan Kenny , Jaworski Piotr Marek
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This research focuses on the demand from medium-sized firms to access public equity as a source of finance. The acceptance of public equity differs strongly between countries, particularly between the United Kingdom and Germany. Therefore, this research aims to identify the impact of national culture on the decision to go public in these two countries.

Design/methodology/approach

The theoretical framework builds on the satisficing theory of rationality, the pecking-order theory as well as Hofstede's cultural dimension theory. Using a questionnaire, over 1,000 medium-sized businesses in the United Kingdom and Germany were surveyed.

Findings

The findings demonstrate that British medium-sized firms are more open to using public equity as a source of finance than their German counterparts. The results indicate that national culture not only affects the decision to go public but also has a negative impact on uncertainty avoidance and long-term orientation.

Originality/value

The originality of the research lies in the focus on medium-sized firms and the effects of cultural differences between the United Kingdom and Germany. No previous research has explored how culture influences the decision to go public using a dataset generated from medium-sized firms in the United Kingdom and Germany.
When morally good employees become bad: the role of unethical requests and wrong judgments at the workplace
Authors: Mumtaz Sana
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This research focuses on the distinct group of high-status employees commonly referred to as workplace vigilantes, and conceptually investigates how unethical requests by these individuals impact the behavior and attitude of other employees over time using the social identity theory.

Design/methodology/approach

For developing a conceptual model, literature from the domains of social identity, organizational behavior and general management was searched through Google Scholar. To search the literature, some key terms such as “unethical activities”, “Islamic work ethics” and “social identity” were searched and analyzed.

Findings

Using the social identity theory, a conceptual process model is developed which suggests that when high-status employees propose unethical requests to employees, individuals with high morality are likely to refuse those unethical requests to protect their self-categorizations. However, taking the unfair advantage of their illegitimate powers, high-status employees are likely to eventually make wrong judgments and give unnecessary punishments to moral employees. It is further argued that consistent victimization is likely to negatively impact the social identity of such employees and leads to irritability in moral employees, particularly when such individuals are unable to get the requisite social support from their leaders.

Originality/value

While a considerable body of literature has focused on the antecedents and consequences of intense unethical business practices and the crucial role of leaders in such activities, limited attention has been given to the role of other employees and how they engage in mild unethical misconduct regularly, which is the key focus of this research. The novel conceptual framework needs to be tested in diverse contexts for further development and validation.
Abiotic stress rather than biotic interactions drives contrasting trends in chemical richness and variation in alpine willows
Authors: Volf Martin , Volfová Tereza , Hörandl Elvira , Wagner Natascha D. , Luntamo Niko , Salminen Juha‐Pekka , Sedio Brian E.
Published: August 2022

Plants produce an astonishing diversity of specialized metabolites as defences against herbivores, pathogens or detrimental abiotic conditions. Plants growing at different elevations are exposed to different biotic and abiotic conditions and typically show pronounced differences in their chemistry. Understanding how these differences arise through changes in various measures of chemical diversity can inform us concerning factors that contribute to the variety of metabolites found among plants.

We focused on elevational changes in concentration, richness and intra‐ and interspecific variation in specialized chemistry in willows (Salix, Salicaceae) and compare them among metabolite classes with different functions. We aim to show how these various measures of chemical diversity change with elevation to reveal trends contributing to changes in plant chemistry along major ecological gradients.

We studied chemistry, herbivory and fungal pathogen damage in an assemblage of seven willow species along an elevational gradient in the Alps (800–2600 m a.s.l.). We examined trends in chemical diversity using untargeted metabolomics, and further quantified trends in three specific classes: proanthocyanidins and salicinoids involved in biotic interactions, and flavonoids involved mainly in abiotic protection. We use measures of willow chemistry that take structural relatedness of metabolites into account to show if the roles of structurally distinct metabolites change with elevation.

Willows from low elevations exhibited greater proanthocyanidin concentration and structural richness of flavonoids. In contrast, willows from high elevations showed greater structural richness of salicinoids and greater variation in total metabolite composition at both the intra‐ and interspecific levels. The trends in salicinoid richness and proanthocyanidin concentration were explained by elevational changes in temperature.

Our results show how elevational differences in plant chemistry arise through trends in various aspects of their chemical diversity. Willows at high elevations showed reduced structural richness of metabolites involved in abiotic protection. This may reflect focused investment in metabolites with the highest ecological benefit relative to their concentration in high‐elevation willows. At the same time, they possessed greater richness of metabolites involved in biotic interactions, while variation in microhabitat preferences among high‐elevation species likely contributed to the high variation in their total metabolite pool.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
CODA: The Racial Ecologies of Urban Wetlands
Authors: Ranganathan Malini
Published: August 2022

In this coda to the intervention on slow violence and the administration of urban injustice I reflect on the role of racialization—broadly defined—in creating deeply unequal and risk‐laden wetland ecologies. I identify ‘racial ecologies’ and ‘ambivalence’ as two key concepts tying together wetland politics across the contexts of Philadelphia and Mumbai. While the concept of ‘racial ecologies’ underscores how systems of human valuation (including racism, casteism and religious discrimination) are ordered through ecological and property valuation, the concept of ‘ambivalence’ stresses the materiality and strategic governing logic which underpins wetland ecologies.
Does labour income react more to income tax or means‐tested benefits reforms?
Authors: Sicsic Michaël
Published: August 2022

I provide estimates of compensated elasticities of labour income with respect to the marginal net‐of‐tax rate on the 2006–15 period for France, exploiting not only income tax reforms but also means‐tested benefits reforms. I use semi‐parametric graphical evidence and a classic two‐stage least‐squares estimation applied to a rich data set including both financial and socio‐demographic variables. I obtain an estimated compensated elasticity on the intensive margin around 0.2–0.3 in response to income tax reforms, and around 0.1 in response to in‐work benefit reforms, while I found no statistically significant response to family allowance reforms. I show that the difference between elasticities contradicts the theoretical prediction of the classical labour supply model. These asymmetric responses are very robust to a large number of robustness checks. The most plausible explanation is that income tax reforms are more salient and better perceived than benefit reforms. I also highlight an average compensated elasticity of 0.1 for all transfers on the intensive margin and provide heterogeneous elasticities depending on types of people, which could be used for optimal tax analyses.
Motivating Employees with Goal‐Based Prosocial Rewards*
Authors: Berger Leslie , Guo Lan , Presslee Adam
Published: August 2022

A recent trend in organizations is to motivate employees with goal‐based prosocial rewards, whereby employees must donate their rewards to charities upon goal attainment. We examine the motivational effects of goal‐based prosocial rewards versus cash rewards under different levels of goal difficulty. We develop our hypotheses based on affective valuation theory, which posits that when valuing uncertain outcomes by affect rather than calculation, individuals are largely insensitive to changes in probability of the outcomes, including probability of goal attainment. Experiment results support our hypotheses. Specifically, we find that employees who are rewarded with prosocial (vs. cash) goal‐based rewards are more likely to adopt an affective valuation approach. Consequently, when employees are assigned either an easy goal or a stretch goal, their effort is higher when incentivized with a goal‐based prosocial reward than a cash reward. Furthermore, there is a less curve‐linear relationship between goal difficulty and effort with prosocial (vs. cash) goal‐based rewards. These findings highlight for incentive system designers the motivational advantage of goal‐based prosocial rewards relative to traditional cash rewards. Furthermore, we extend the academic literature by showing how affect‐rich rewards such as prosocial rewards can influence employees' assessment of the probability of goal attainment.
The Harrah's epigraphic heritage: Arabic graffito from the Black Desert in north‐eastern Jordan referring to the Umayyad caliph Hishām b. ʿAbd al‐Malik
Authors: Alhatlani Abdullah Saad , Al‐Manaser Ali
Published: August 2022

The aim of this article is to republish, reread and interpret an Arabic inscription from the Black Desert, north‐eastern Jordan, to shed light on the practice of the dating system used before the Umayyad era, in which the dating of the inscription is linked to a specific event. The inscription was re‐discovered by the present authors during the 2019 Badia Epigraphic Survey. It dates to the death of Hishām, who, as can be assumed, is the Umayyad caliph Hishām b. ʿAbd al‐Malik (r. 724–743CE). In addition, this paper argues that according to the epigraphic records, when a caliph died, his title was removed.
Genetic and psychosocial influence on the association between early childhood infections and later psychiatric disorders
Authors: Debost Jean‐Christophe Philippe Goldtsche , Thorsteinsson Erla , Trabjerg Betina , Benros Michael Eriksen , Albiñana Clara , Vilhjalmsson Bjarni Johann , Børglum Anders , Mors Ole , Werge Thomas , Mortensen Preben Bo , Agerbo Esben , Petersen Liselotte Vogdrup
Published: August 2022

Objective

To evaluate the influence of extensive genetic and psychosocial confounding on the association between early childhood infection and five major psychiatric disorders

Methods

A case‐cohort study including participants from the Danish iPSYCH2012 sample, a case‐cohort sample where all cases born between May 1, 1981, and December 31, 2005, diagnosed with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), bipolar affective disorder (BIP), Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) or schizophrenia (SCZ), were identified and pooled with a representative sample (subcohort) of the Danish population. We used Cox proportional hazards regression customized to the case‐cohort setup to calculate hazard ratios of outcome with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), following exposure to early childhood infection before the age of 5 years for ADHD and ASD, and before the age of 10 years for BIP, MDD, and SCZ. To evaluate psychosocial confounding we included sex, calendar period, sibling infections, urbanicity, parental socio‐economic status, parental mental health information, and polygenic risk scores for all five disorders, as covariates. To estimate how liability for psychiatric disorders measured through the PRS influenced the risk of early childhood infection, we calculated odds ratios (ORs) with 95% CIs, using logistic regression

Results

Early childhood infection was associated with ADHD, ASD, MDD, and SCZ with number of childhood infections increasing the hazard. The HR was still significant in the model with full adjustments after 1 infection for ADHD (HR 1.29, 95% CI: 1.19–1.41), ASD (HR 1.28, 95% CI: 1.18–1.40), MDD (HR 1.23, 95% CI: 1.14–1.33), and SCZ (HR 1.21, 95% CI: 1.07–1.36), but not for BIP (HR1.17, 95% CI: 0.96–1.42). Probands exposed to sibling infections, but not own infection had an absolute risk of ADHD, BIP, MDD, and SCZ that closely approached the absolute risk for individuals exposed to own infections. We found evidence of gene–environment correlation with higher PRS of MDD and to some extent SCZ increasing the risk of infections and higher PRS of BIP associated with significantly decreased risk

Conclusion

Early childhood infection is significantly associated with ADHD, ASD, MDD, and SCZ and not explained by genetic or psychosocial confounding. Although we found evidence of gene–environment correlation, it had minor impact on the results
Sensitivity of health records for self‐reported nonfatal drug and alcohol overdose
Authors: Riggs Kevin R. , DeRussy Aerin J. , Leisch Leah , Shover Chelsea L. , Bohnert Amy S. B. , Hoge April E. , Montgomery Ann E. , Varley Allyson L. , Jones Audrey L. , Gordon Adam J. , Kertesz Stefan G.
Published: August 2022

Background and Objectives

Public health surveillance for overdose sometimes depends on nonfatal drug overdoses recorded in health records. However, the proportion of total overdoses identified through health record systems is unclear. Comparison of overdoses from health records to those that are self‐reported may provide insight on the proportion of nonfatal overdoses that are not identified.

Methods

We conducted a cohort study linking survey data on overdose from a national survey of Veterans to United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health records, including community care paid for by VA. Self‐reported overdose in the prior 3 years was compared to diagnostic codes for overdoses and substance use disorders in the same time period.

Results

The sensitivity of diagnostic codes for overdose, compared to self‐report as a reference standard for this analysis, varied by substance: 28.1% for alcohol, 23.1% for sedatives, 12.0% for opioids, and 5.5% for cocaine. There was a notable concordance between substance use disorder diagnoses and self‐reported overdose (sensitivity range 17.9%–90.6%).

Discussion and Conclusions

Diagnostic codes in health records may not identify a substantial proportion of drug overdoses. A health record diagnosis of substance use disorder may offer a stronger inference regarding the size of the population at risk. Alternatively, screening for self‐reported overdose in routine clinical care could enhance overdose surveillance and targeted intervention.

Scientific Significance

This study suggests that diagnostic codes for overdose are insensitive. These findings support consideration of alternative approaches to overdose surveillance in public health.
Population kinetic–pharmacodynamic analysis of serum potassium in patients receiving sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim
Authors: Hirai Toshinori , Shiraishi Chihiro , Nakai Sumire , Ushiro Miu , Hanada Kazuhiko , Iwamoto Takuya
Published: August 2022

Since trimethoprim (TMP) dose‐dependently inhibits the excretion of potassium, a population kinetic–pharmacodynamic analysis was performed to establish an adequate dosing schedule and characterize factors of hyperkalaemia. Dataset was constructed using a retrospective observational cohort of hospitalized patients (>18 years) with oral sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim formulation. The model integrated a kinetic model for TMP, a urinary TMP concentration–response curve and a kinetic model for serum potassium using an indirect response model. The model was a function of body weight, renal function, serum potassium levels and TMP dosing schedule. We evaluated covariates by the stepwise forward and backward selection methods. The Monte Carlo simulation determined the probability of hyperkalaemia (>5.5 or >6.0 meq/L) according to the dosing schedule, renal function and covariates. This study included 317 patients [age 62 (42–72) years] with 4359 serum potassium levels. The significant covariate was non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), with a 72.3% reduction in 50% inhibitory concentration. Monte Carlo simulation revealed that high‐dose TMP (400 mg thrice daily) co‐administered with NSAIDs led to mild hyperkalaemia (>10%) and severe hyperkalaemia (approximately 5%), regardless of renal function. In conclusion, clinicians should pay attention to hyperkalaemia with TMP high‐dose and co‐administered NSAIDs.
Sexual dysfunction among males and females with bipolar disorder and healthy subjects: The burden of illness severity
Authors: Dargél Aroldo A. , Mosconi Elise , Volant Stevenn , Taieb David , Brenot Philippe
Published: August 2022

Objectives

Sexual dysfunction has wide‐ranging impacts on the person's functioning and quality of life, being associated with higher severity of psychiatric illnesses and poor therapeutic response. Given the paucity of data on this topic in bipolar disorder (BD), we investigated sexual functioning among males and females with BD and healthy controls (HCs) as well as whether illness severity markers and subthreshold mood symptoms were associated with sexual dysfunctions in BD patients.

Methods

The study included 80 BD outpatients and 70 HCs. Sexual functioning was evaluated using the validated, gender‐specific Changes in Sexual Functioning Questionnaire (CSFQ‐14).

Results

BD patients had a significantly poorer sexual functioning than HCs (p < 0.00001). The odds of sexual dysfunction doubled given a one‐unit increase in the number of suicide attempts (adjusted OR = 2.01, 95% CI:1.23–3.55; p < 0.01) and increased by 60% for every additional hospitalization (p < 0.05). Greater illness duration was associated with arousal/orgasmic (p < 0.05) and overall sexual dysfunctions (p < 0.01). BD patients with more mixed or (hypo)manic episodes had a lower likelihood of libido loss and arousal/orgasmic disturbances (p < 0.01), respectively. Higher levels of subthreshold depressive symptoms increased by 20% the odds of sexual interest/frequency dysfunctions (p < 0.05), and up to 60% regarding orgasmic disturbances (p < 0.01).

Conclusions

Sexual functioning may be a useful proxy of illness severity as well as a relevant dimension to more deeply characterize BD patients. Further studies are warranted to replicate our findings, to evaluate temporal associations between sexual dysfunctions and illness severity across the BD mood and treatment spectrums and to explore neurobiological underpinnings of these associations.
Conducting video therapy with adults with an intellectual disability: A qualitative study of qualified and trainee psychologists' experiences
Authors: Blocksidge Hope , Willis Lara , Codd Jon
Published: August 2022

Background

Online therapy is becoming increasingly popular as well as necessary. There is little research regarding the experience of psychologists delivering online therapy to individuals with an intellectual disability.

Method

The study used online semistructured interviews and interpretive phenological analysis to explore the experiences of five psychologists delivering online therapy to individuals with an intellectual disability.

Findings

Four superordinate themes were generated from the data: Environment: “You can't control the environment”; Person centred: “I do not think it's one size fits all”; Rapport: “slightly trickier to build”; and Clinician ability and experience: “it was a bit of a learning process”. Psychologists spoke of prior negative beliefs and a range of challenges to video therapy. Their discomfort with using this technology was noted; however, a motivation to continue offering therapy to clients overweighed this. All participants concluded with benefits to using video therapy, notably increased accessibility.

Conclusion

A hybrid model including face‐to‐face and online therapy appears preferable for future ways of working. Training is recommended for professionals and individuals supporting clients, and an assessment tool for the suitability of online therapy. Further research exploring online therapy experiences of people with intellectual disabilities is required.
Pathological tau signatures and nuclear alterations in neurons, astrocytes and microglia in Alzheimer's disease, progressive supranuclear palsy, and dementia with Lewy bodies
Authors: Montalbano Mauro , Majmundar Lajja , Sengupta Urmi , Fung Leiana , Kayed Rakez
Published: August 2022

Accumulation of pathological tau aggregates is a prominent feature in tauopathies that leads during the course of the diseases to neuronal dysfunction before and cell death after. Microglia and astrocytes have been described as playing important roles in synaptic spreading of toxic tau in several neurodegenerative diseases (NDs). Here, we have investigated the immunological and biochemical properties of aggregated tau species in different brain cell types in tau‐induced neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). Additionally, we examined nuclear size, nuclear density, and chromatin compaction in neuronal and glial cells from diseased brain tissues. Microscopic‐histological examination was performed using in‐house mouse monoclonal antibodies for toxic tau conformers (TTC‐M1 and TTC‐M2) and tau oligomers (TOMA1‐4). By immunohistochemistry and co‐immunofluorescence assays using TOMA/TTC‐Ms and cell‐type specific markers for neurons, astrocytes, and microglia, we observed that TOMA/TTC‐Ms were immunoreactive to diverse tau species in different cell types. Analysis of colocalization coefficients indicated an increased pathological tau deposition mainly in the neurons. Western blot analysis of brain homogenates using TOMA/TTC‐Ms revealed distinct patterns of tau aggregation in each disease, suggesting that TOMA/TTC‐Ms can distinguish between different tau aggregates present in different tauopathies. Additionally, using DAPI staining, we observed that neuronal and astrocytic nuclei had significantly greater nuclear area and increased chromatin compaction in AD cortices compared to non‐demented controls. In contrast, reduction in nuclear density/area and more relaxed chromatin was noticed in DLB neurons, astrocytes and microglia and PSP astrocytes and microglia. Cell‐type specific tropism of toxic tau species in tauopathies will provide a greater understanding of the involvement of different brain cell types in tau pathology. In this study, we observed that each disease presented cell‐type specific nuclear phenotype and tau deposition pattern.
Tensions between municipal reform and outdated fiscal levers in rural British Columbia
Authors: Ryser Laura , Halseth Greg , Markey Sean , Young Andrew
Published: August 2022

Debates about the future of small municipalities in Canada are set against a backdrop of economic, political, and social restructuring processes that have displaced former state investment policies in favour of neoliberal public policy approaches. Small municipalities struggle with outdated financial and governance structures and a provincial public policy agenda that asks them to become more creative, innovative, and “entrepreneurial” in their approach and responsibilities. Drawing upon key informant interviews with eight case studies in British Columbia, Canada, this research examines the tensions between municipal reforms mandated by the provincial government over the past 30 years and commensurate fiscal levers and capacities in place to address these broadening responsibilities for small municipalities in volatile staples‐dependent regions. Our findings demonstrate how successive provincial governments have mobilized New Public Management objectives through a host of legislative and regulatory changes that have increased the responsibilities and requirements on local governments without commensurate fiscal or jurisdictional capacity.
Barriers and facilitators to participation in everyday activities for children with intellectual disabilities in China
Authors: Shi Linjun , Granlund Mats , Wang Lan , Huus Karina
Published: August 2022

Background

Children with intellectual disabilities (IDs) are vulnerable and participate less in everyday activities compared to their peers with typical development. This study aimed to identify barriers and facilitators related to the participation in everyday activities of children with IDs in China.

Methods

Twenty semi‐structured interviews were conducted with primary caregivers of children with IDs from special schools in Tianjin, China. The data were transcribed and analysed using inductive qualitative content analysis.

Results

Four categories of barriers to participation in everyday activities for children with IDs were identified: insufficient knowledge, attitudes and skills in primary caregivers; ID‐related characteristics of children; stigma and Chinese culture; and lack of support from society. Four categories describing facilitators of participation in everyday activities for children with IDs were also identified: the optimistic attitude of the primary caregiver; adequate family support; active environment in school and policy; and attractive characteristics of children with IDs.

Conclusions

The findings in this study add knowledge on important barriers and facilitators affecting the participation of children with IDs in everyday activities in China. The primary caregivers' voices need to be heard by government and society. Appropriate and effective changes in family‐oriented services and the legal, social, political and economic context of the child welfare management system for the scale‐up of improving participation should be implemented for children with IDs.
Transplantation of modified human bone marrow‐derived stromal cells affords therapeutic effects on cerebral ischemia in rats
Authors: Kawauchi Satoshi , Yasuhara Takao , Kin Kyohei , Yabuno Satoru , Sugahara Chiaki , Nagase Takayuki , Hosomoto Kakeru , Okazaki Yosuke , Tomita Yousuke , Umakoshi Michiari , Sasaki Tatsuya , Kameda Masahiro , Borlongan Cesario V. , Date Isao
Published: August 2022

Aims

SB623 cells are human bone marrow stromal cells transfected with Notch1 intracellular domain. In this study, we examined potential regenerative mechanisms underlying stereotaxic transplantation of SB623 cells in rats with experimental acute ischemic stroke.

Methods

We prepared control group, empty capsule (EC) group, SB623 cell group (SB623), and encapsulated SB623 cell (eSB623) group. Transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) was performed on day 0, and 24 h after MCAO, stroke rats received transplantation into the envisioned ischemic penumbra. Modified neurological severity score (mNSS) was evaluated, and histological evaluations were performed.

Results

In the mNSS, SB623 and eSB623 groups showed significant improvement compared to the other groups. Histological analysis revealed that the infarction area in SB623 and eSB623 groups was reduced. In the eSB623 group, robust cell viability and neurogenesis were detected in the subventricular zone that increased significantly compared to all other groups.

Conclusion

SB623 cells with or without encapsulation showed therapeutic effects on ischemic stroke. Encapsulated SB623 cells showed enhanced neurogenesis and increased viability inside the capsules. This study reveals the mechanism of secretory function of transplanted SB623 cells, but not cell–cell interaction as primarily mediating the cells' functional benefits in ischemic stroke.
A novel severe cerebral venous thrombosis rat model based on semi‐ligation combined with ferric chloride and thrombin
Authors: Xiao Lipo , Ji Xunming , Zhao Haiping , Luo Yumin , Hu Shuyuan , Zhao Tingyu , Hu Zeliang , Duan Jiangang
Published: August 2022

Aims

An applicable cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) model is imperative for exploring its pathophysiology. We established a novel severe CVST model using semi‐ligation, ferric chloride, and thrombin.

Methods

A total of 138 male Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into semi‐ligation (n = 75) and non‐semi‐ligation (n = 63) groups. A sham group (n = 46) was also included. We compared short‐term and long‐term neurological and cognitive dysfunction, mortality rates, thrombus load, venous infarction volume, the blood–brain barrier permeability, brain water content, and microglia activation among the three groups.

Results

Thrombi involving multiple venous sinuses appeared in all semi‐ligation rats within 2 days postoperatively. Compared with the non‐semi‐ligation group, short‐term and long‐term neurological dysfunction were more severe (p < 0.05), and thrombus weight, venous infarction volumes, and microglia activation were more significant (p < 0.05) in the semi‐ligation group. Further, the cognitive function of the semi‐ligation group significantly decreased (p < 0.05) on postoperative day 21. Cumulative mortality rates between the semi‐ligation and non‐semi‐ligation groups did not differ significantly.

Conclusion

Semi‐ligation combined with ferric chloride and thrombin can produce a severe CVST model with multiple venous sinus involvement, which is suitable for short‐ and long‐term neurological and cognitive dysfunction assessment.
Modeling drivers of biodiversity change emphasizes the need for multivariate assessments and rescaled targeting for management
Authors: Dajka Jan‐Claas , di Carvalho Josie Antonucci , Ryabov Alexey , Scheiffarth Gregor , Rönn Lena , Dekker Rob , Peters Kimberley , Leberecht Bo , Hillebrand Helmut
Published: August 2022

The current policy and goals aimed to conserve biodiversity and manage biodiversity change are often formulated at the global scale. At smaller scales however, biodiversity change is more nuanced leading to a plethora of trends in different metrics of alpha diversity and temporal turnover. Therefore, large‐scale policy targets do not translate easily into local to regional management decisions for biodiversity. Using long‐term monitoring data from the Wadden Sea (Southern North Sea), joining structural equation models and general dissimilarity models enabled a better overview of the drivers of biodiversity change. Few commonalities emerged as birds, fish, macroinvertebrates, and phytoplankton differed in their response to certain drivers of change. These differences were additionally dependent upon the biodiversity aspect in question and which environmental data were recorded in each monitoring program. No single biodiversity metric or model sufficed to capture all ongoing change, which requires an explicitly multivariate approaches to biodiversity assessment in local ecosystem management.
Exploring the lived experiences of Indigenous Australians within the context of alcohol and other drugs treatment services: A scoping review
Authors: Heath Airin , Martin Mary Kristienne , Krakouer Jacynta
Published: August 2022

Issues

Substance use among Indigenous peoples has been extensively researched in the Australian context. However, syntheses of existing research focused on Indigenous Australian peoples' experiences of alcohol and other drug (AOD) treatment are limited. This review sought to fill this gap.

Approach

A scoping review using three databases, and the Google search engine, examined empirical and grey literature relating to Indigenous Australian peoples' lived experiences of accessing and undergoing AOD treatment. The review was not restricted to intervention type, treatment setting, substance, or individual characteristics (e.g., age or gender). The experiences of staff of Indigenous Australian service providers were excluded.

Key Findings

Twenty‐seven articles were reviewed, with most research (n = 12) conducted in New South Wales. Our secondary analysis of existing research found three themes: the role of culture, the value of holistic strength‐based services, and the influence of organisational components for Indigenous Australian service users in AOD treatment settings.

Implications and Conclusion

Despite diversity of experiences, our review highlights the importance of integrating culture and facilitating holistic strength‐based approaches to AOD treatment for Indigenous Australian peoples. While our review is limited by the findings and biases contained within the literature reviewed, the paucity of literature relating to the experiences of Indigenous Australian peoples within AOD treatment settings warrants further attention.
Age at first alcohol‐related hospital separation or emergency department presentation and rate of re‐admission: A retrospective data linkage cohort of young Australians
Authors: Yuen Wing S. , Leung Janni , Man Nicola , Chiu Vivian , Gisev Natasa , Livingston Michael , Degenhardt Louisa , Farrell Michael , Pearson Sallie‐Anne , Dobbins Timothy , Dunlop Adrian , Mattick Richard P. , Peacock Amy
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Alcohol is a leading risk factor for death and disease in young people. We compare age‐specific characteristics of young people who experience their first (‘index’) alcohol‐related hospitalisation or emergency department (ED) presentation, and whether age at index predicts 12‐month rates of readmission.

Methods

We used a retrospective linked‐data cohort of 10,300 people aged 12–20 years with an index alcohol‐related hospital and/or ED record in New South Wales, Australia from 2005 to 2013. Age group (early adolescent [12–14 years], late adolescent [15–17 years], young adult [18–20 years]) and diagnosis fields were used in logistic regression analyses and to calculate incidence rates with adjustment for year of index event, sex, socioeconomic disadvantage and residence remoteness.

Results

People who experienced their index event in early adolescence (adjusted relative risk ratio [ARRR] 0.45 [95% confidence interval 0.39, 0.52]) or late adolescence (ARRR 0.82 [0.74, 0.90]) were less likely to be male compared to young adults. Early adolescents (ARRR 0.60 [0.51, 0.70]) and late adolescents (ARRR 0.84 [0.76, 0.93]) were less likely to have a hospitalisation index event. Early adolescents (adjusted incidence rate ratio 1.40 [1.15, 1.71]) and late adolescents (adjusted incidence rate ratio 1.16 [1.01, 1.34]) were more likely than young adults to have a subsequent 12‐month non‐poisoning injury ED presentation.

Discussion and Conclusions

We identified preventable hospital events in young people who have previously experienced an alcohol‐related ED presentation or hospitalisation, with age‐specific characteristics and outcomes that can be used to inform future health policy and service planning.
Liver fibrosis scores and prognosis in patients with cardiovascular diseases: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Yan Zhiwei , Liu Yang , Li Wei , Zhao Xiaopeng , Lin Weichun , Zhang Jing , Yu Shuchun , Ma Jianyong , Wang Jingfeng , Yu Peng , Li Weiguang , Liu Xiao
Published: August 2022

Background

In patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, liver fibrosis was associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular events. However, the relationship between liver fibrosis scores and clinical outcomes in patients with cardiovascular disease remains unclear.

Methods

Searching from PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Library databases yielded cohort studies that reported adjusted effect size between liver fibrosis scores (Fibrosis‐4 score [FIB‐4] or NAFLD fibrosis score [NFS]) and prognosis in patients with cardiovascular disease. The effect size was computed using a random‐effects model.

Results

This meta‐analysis included twelve cohort studies involving 25,252 patients with cardiovascular disease. Participants with the highest baseline level of FIB‐4 or NFS had a significantly increased risk of cardiovascular events (FIB‐4, HR: 1.75, 95% CI: 1.53–2.00, I
2 = 0%; NFS, HR: 1.92, 95% CI: 1.50–2.47, I
2 = 47%). This finding was consistent with the analysis of FIB‐4 or NFS as a continuous variable (per 1‐unit increment FIB‐4, HR: 1.15, 95% CI: 1.06–1.24, I
2 = 72%; NFS, HR: 1.15, 95% CI: 1.07–1.24, I
2 = 71%). Furthermore, participants with the highest levels of FIB‐4 or NFS had a greater risk of cardiovascular mortality (FIB‐4, HR: 2.07, 95% CI: 1.19–3.61, I
2 = 89%; NFS, HR: 3.72, 95% CI: 2.62–5.29, I
2 = 60%) and all‐cause mortality (FIB‐4, HR: 1.81, 95% CI: 1.24–2.66, I
2 = 90%; NFS, HR: 3.49, 95% CI: 2.82–4.31, I
2 = 25%). This result was also consistent as a continuous variable.

Conclusion

Higher levels of FIB‐4 and NFS are related to an increased risk of cardiovascular events, cardiovascular mortality and all‐cause mortality in patients with cardiovascular disease.
Understanding the relationship between dispersal and range size
Authors: Alzate Adriana , Onstein Renske E.
Published: August 2022

The drivers of variability in species range sizes remain an outstanding enigma in ecology. The theoretical expectation of a positive dispersal‐range size relationship has received mixed empirical support, despite dispersal being one of the most prominent hypothesised predictors of range size. Here, we synthesised results from 86 studies examining the dispersal‐range size relationship for plants and animals in marine, terrestrial and freshwater realms. Overall, our meta‐analysis showed that dispersal positively affects range size, but its effect is dependent on the clade and dispersal proxy studied. Moreover, despite potential differences in habitat connectivity, we did not find an effect of realm on the dispersal‐range size relationship. Finally, the strength of the dispersal‐range size relationship was dependent on latitude, range size metric and the taxonomic breadth of the study clade. Our synthesis emphasizes the importance of developing a mechanistic understanding of the trait to dispersal to range size relationship, considering the complexity of dispersal departure, transfer and settlement, as well as evolutionary components such as time for range expansion, speciation and past geological–environmental dynamics. We, therefore, call for a more integrative view of the dispersal process and its causal relationship with range size.
Rescue therapies for seizure clusters: Pharmacology and target of treatments
Authors: Gidal Barry , Detyniecki Kamil
Published: August 2022

The primary goal of treatment for seizure clusters is cessation of the cluster to avoid progression to more severe conditions, such as prolonged seizures and status epilepticus. Rescue therapies are key components of treatment plans for patients with seizure clusters. Three rescue therapies are approved in the United States for the treatment of seizure clusters: diazepam rectal gel, midazolam nasal spray, and diazepam nasal spray. This review characterizes the pharmacological function of rescue therapies for seizure clusters, as well as describing γ‐aminobutyric acid A (GABAA) receptor functions. GABAAreceptors are heteropentamers, consisting primarily of α1‐6, β1‐3, γ2, and δ subunits in the central nervous system. These subunits can traffic to and from the membrane to regulate membrane potential. Benzodiazepines, such as diazepam and midazolam, are positive allosteric modulators of GABAAreceptors, the activation of which leads to an increase in intracellular chloride, hyperpolarization of the cell membrane, and a reduction in excitation. GABAAreceptor subunit mutations, dysregulation of trafficking, and degradation are associated with epilepsy. Although benzodiazepines are effective GABAAreceptor modulators, individual formulations have unique profiles in practice. Diazepam rectal gel is an effective rescue therapy for seizure clusters; however, adults and adolescents may have social reservations regarding its administration. Intranasal delivery of midazolam or diazepam is a promising alternative to rectal administration because these formulations offer easy, socially acceptable administration and exhibit a rapid onset. Off‐label benzodiazepines, such as orally disintegrating lorazepam and intranasal use of an intravenous formulation of midazolam via nasal atomizer, are less well characterized regarding bioavailability and tolerability compared with approved agents.
Introduction to use of an acute seizure action plan for seizure clusters and guidance for implementation
Authors: Patel Anup D. , Becker Danielle A.
Published: August 2022

It is important for patients with epilepsy and their caregivers, including care partners, to understand the patient's seizure clusters and what to do when they occur. In many instances, seizure clusters are unique to each patient. The knowledge gained from understanding a patient's seizure cluster or seizure pattern provides a foundation for taking prompt action to prevent worsening to prolonged seizures, status epilepticus, and potentially death. Seizure action plans (SAPs), which are similar to the disease‐related treatment action plans for other conditions, can be developed by a health care provider (HCP) in conjunction with the patient with epilepsy and/or caregivers, and SAPs are specifically customized for the individual patient and his or her seizure management. However, the current literature lacks unified guidance on how to design SAPs that will help prepare patients and caregivers for rapidly determining and initiating appropriate treatment of acute seizure emergencies in the community and at home. Here, we examine the current usage and value of SAPs for pediatric and adult patients with epilepsy, and we introduce the concept of the acute SAP (ASAP) for use specifically during seizure emergencies, such as seizure clusters. This type of standardized, simplified, and customized plan can rapidly and concisely provide patients and caregivers with a practical protocol to treat a seizure cluster consistently, appropriately, and in a timely manner. Details on potential content and formats of ASAPs are provided. Following this is a discussion of barriers to ASAP use that may affect HCPs or patients and caregivers, including lack of standardization, relevance, and personalization and pitfalls associated with technology. This leads into a discussion of guidance for developing, implementing, and updating ASAPs that suggests ways to address the barriers and ensure that the ASAP is best suited to the patient's needs.
Poor performance in the horse: Diagnosing the non‐orthopaedic causes
Authors: Ellis Katherine L. , Contino Erin K. , Nout‐Lomas Yvette S.
Published: August 2022

Poor performance and gait deficits in the equine athlete are most commonly caused by lameness of orthopaedic origin; however, there are numerous other potential sources that should be taken into consideration. This review describes the clinical signs and diagnostic tests for non‐orthopaedic causes of poor performance and gait deficits in the equine athlete.