bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mandatory CSR regulations and social disclosure: the mediating role of the CSR committee
Authors: Samarawickrama Dhanushika , Biswas Pallab Kumar , Roberts Helen
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the association between mandatory corporate social responsibility (CSR) regulations (CSR mandate) and social disclosures (SOCDS) in India. It also investigates whether CSR committees mediate the relationship between CSR mandate and SOCDS. Furthermore, this paper explores how business group (BG) affiliation moderates CSR committee quality and SOCDS.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a data set of 5,345 observations from the Bombay stock exchange (BSE)-listed firms over 10 years (2011–2020) to examine the research questions. Baron and Kenny’s (1986) three-step model is estimated to examine the mediating role of CSR committees on the relationship between CSR mandate and SOCDS.

Findings

The study reveals that the CSR mandate positively impacts SOCDS in India due to coercive pressures. CSR committees mediate this relationship, with higher CSR committee quality leading to increased SOCDS. Furthermore, the authors report that SOCDS in India is positively related to CSR committee quality, and this relationship is stronger for BG firms. Finally, the supplementary analysis reveals that promoting CSR committee quality enhances firms’ likelihood of meeting CSR mandatory spending and actual CSR spending in India.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the academic literature by shedding light on the intricate dynamics of CSR mandates, CSR committees and SOCDS in emerging economies. Notably, the authors identify the previously unexplored mediation role of CSR committees in the link between CSR mandates and SOCDS. The creation of a composite index that measures complementary CSR committee attributes allows us to undertake a novel assessment of CSR committee quality. An examination of the moderating influence of BG affiliation documents the importance of CSR committee quality, particularly in governance, for enhancing SOCDS transparency within BG firms.
Multifunctional finishes on photochromic microcapsule-printed cotton fabrics using titanium oxide nanoparticles
Authors: Tamilmani Gobikannan , D. Venkhatesan , P. Santhosh , M. Tamilselvan , Pawar Suryappa Jayappa , Hirenbhai Navinbhai Amin
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to study the combination of photochromic microcapsules, which use the ultraviolet (UV) rays for colour changing phenomena, and titanium oxide (TiO2) nanoparticles (NPs), which block the UV rays by their photocatalytic activity in the sunlight on the cotton fabric.

Design/methodology/approach

The TiO2 NPs mixed with photochromic printing paste are used for coating on cotton fabric and further curing is performed in a one-step process. The photochromic pigment printed fabric impregnated in a liquid solution is processed in a two-step process with two variables such as 1% TiO2 and 2% TiO2. The characterization of samples was done with a UV transmittance analyser, surface contact angle, antimicrobial test and fabric physical properties.

Findings

The UV protection of TiO2-treated photochromic printed fabric was high and gives the ultraviolet protection factor rating of 2,000 which denotes almost maximum blocking of UV rays. The antibacterial activity of the one-step samples shows the highest 36 mm zone of inhibition (ZOI) against S. aureus (gram-positive) and 32 mm ZOI against E. coli (gram-negative) bacteria. The one-step sample shows the highest static water contact angle of 118.6° representing more hydrophobicity, whereas the untreated fabric is fully wetted (0.4°). In two-step processes, as the concentration of TiO2 increased, the antibacterial activity, UV blocking and hydrophobicity became better.

Originality/value

This work achieves the multifunctional finishes by using photochromic microcapsules and NPs in a single process as a first attempt. The results inferred that one-step sample has achieved higher values in most of the tests conducted when compared to all other sample.
Anand constitutive modeling of multilayer Silver-Tin transient liquid phase foils using tensile and creep testing
Authors: Gharaibeh Mohammad A , Feisst Markus , Wilde Jürgen
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to present two Anand’s model parameter sets for the multilayer silver–tin (AgSn) transient liquid phase (TLP) foils.

Design/methodology/approach

The AgSn TLP test samples are manufactured using pre-defined optimized TLP bonding process parameters. Consequently, tensile and creep tests are conducted at various loading temperatures to generate stress–strain and creep data to accurately determine the elastic properties and two sets of Anand model creep coefficients. The resultant tensile- and creep-based constitutive models are subsequently used in extensive finite element simulations to precisely survey the mechanical response of the AgSn TLP bonds in power electronics due to different thermal loads.

Findings

The response of both models is thoroughly addressed in terms of stress–strain relationships, inelastic strain energy densities and equivalent plastic strains. The simulation results revealed that the testing conditions and parameters can significantly influence the values of the fitted Anand coefficients and consequently affect the resultant FEA-computed mechanical response of the TLP bonds. Therefore, this paper suggests that extreme care has to be taken when planning experiments for the estimation of creep parameters of the AgSn TLP joints.

Originality/value

In literature, there is no constitutive modeling data on the AgSn TLP bonds.
Leader feedback seeking from peers: extending the boundary of lateral feedback seeking
Authors: Kurian Prasad Oommen , Carvalho Sheldon , Carvalho Charles , Carvalho Fallan Kirby
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The lateral feedback seeking literature has primarily examined lower-level employees’ feedback seeking from peers. Thus, the authors still know very little about feedback seeking when the leader is the “seeker” and peers are the “targets” of such seeking. The purpose of this paper is to expand existing discussions on lateral feedback seeking by discussing the types of feedback leaders may seek out from their peers.

Design/methodology/approach

The views presented here have been derived from the authors’ personal opinions on the topic of feedback seeking and a review of the academic and practitioner literature on feedback seeking.

Findings

The viewpoint suggests that leaders may engage in two forms of feedback seeking from peers – performance and growth feedback seeking – with each type of feedback seeking holding relevance to leader effectiveness.

Originality/value

Challenging previous research that argues that leaders may avoid seeking feedback from peers, this viewpoint suggests that leaders may seek feedback from peers because they stand to benefit from doing so.
Re‐considering and designing microbiomes for future waste biorefinery
Authors: Wu Menghan , Wang Hui
Published: January 2024

It is an increasingly promising research direction using microbiomes to produce various chemicals in order to support people's growing need for sustainability. Currently, bottom‐up constructed defined microbiomes and top‐down constructed undefined microbiomes play an essential role in the fields of synthetic biology and environmental engineering, respectively. However, if we are goal‐oriented and want to align scientific principles with technology and engineering in future waste biorefinery, we need to reconsider and design microbiomes interdisciplinarily. In this editorial, we briefly review the latest applications of two approaches to microbiome design (bottom‐up and top‐down) and the dilemmas faced in using complex waste. Consequently, we introduce the concept of ‘sustainable synthetic microbiomics’ to apply combined bottom‐up and top‐down constructed microbiomes to provide products for human needs from low‐value waste. Furthermore, we outline the relatively comprehensive research contents and expected prospects based on the pressing problems. Finally, burning questions on key research contents are proposed for specific cases, hoping to provide valuable views for future microbiome biorefinery.
Establishment of synthetic microbial consortia with Corynebacterium glutamicum and Pseudomonas putida: Design, construction, and application to production of γ‐glutamylisopropylamide and l‐theanine
Authors: Benninghaus Leonie , Schwardmann Lynn S. , Jilg Tatjana , Wendisch Volker F.
Published: January 2024

Microbial synthetic consortia are a promising alternative to classical monoculture for biotechnological applications and fermentative processes. Their versatile use offers advantages in the degradation of complex substrates, the allocation of the metabolic burden between individual partners, or the division of labour in energy utilisation, substrate supply or product formation. Here, stable synthetic consortia between the two industrially relevant production hosts, Pseudomonas putida KT2440 and Corynebacterium glutamicum ATCC13032, were established for the first time. By applying arginine auxotrophy/overproduction and/or formamidase‐based utilisation of the rare nitrogen source formamide, different types of interaction were realised, such as commensal relationships (+/0 and 0/+) and mutualistic cross‐feeding (+/+). These consortia did not only show stable growth but could also be used for fermentative production of the γ‐glutamylated amines theanine and γ‐glutamyl‐isopropylamide (GIPA). The consortia produced up to 2.8 g L−1 of GIPA and up to 2.6 g L−1 of theanine, a taste‐enhancing constituent of green tea leaves. Thus, the advantageous approach of using synthetic microbial consortia for fermentative production of value‐added compounds was successfully demonstrated.
Thrombocytopenia and disease outcomes in a cohort of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. A post hoc analysis of the COMOSLE‐EGYPT study
Authors: Mohamed Sally Samy , Gamal Sherif Mohamed , Mokbel Abir , Alkamary Alkhateeb Kadery , Siam Ibrahem , Soliman Ahmed , Elgengehy Fatema Talaat
Published: January 2024

Background

Thrombocytopenia ranges from 20% to 40% in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It is usually associated with severe disease manifestations and worse disease outcomes.

Aim of the Study

To identify the frequency of thrombocytopenia in a cohort of Egyptian patients with SLE and to examine the relationship of thrombocytopenia with various disease manifestations and disease outcomes.

Methods

Data on 902 SLE patients were collected, including demographics, clinical, laboratory, immunological findings, and medications. SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) at baseline, last visit, and Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics/ACR Damage Index (SLICC) were calculated. A comparison was done between patients with thrombocytopenia (group I) and patients without (group II) regarding different disease parameters. Regression analysis was done to examine if thrombocytopenia is a predictor of worse disease outcomes.

Results

Thrombocytopenia was found in 33% of our cohort. Longer disease duration was observed in group I compared to group II (p value = .01). As regards clinical manifestations, significantly higher frequencies of constitutional manifestations, anemia, arterial thrombosis, pulmonary hypertension, cardiac manifestations, neurological manifestations, gastrointestinal tract (GIT), and hepatic manifestations were detected in group I compared to group II. The disease damage index was detected to be significantly higher in group I as compared to group II (p value < .001). Mortality was higher in group I (p value < .001). Although it was found that antiphospholipid antibodies (APL) were associated with thrombocytopenia and their presence resulted in higher damage (p value: .001), the presence of thrombocytopenia even in patients with negative APL antibodies was associated with higher damage and mortality. Apart from thrombocytopenia, the male gender was also found to be an independent risk factor for mortality.

Conclusion

Thrombocytopenia was associated with more organ damage and higher mortality in SLE patients with or without APL antibodies. SLE patients with thrombocytopenia have a 3.4 times higher risk of mortality than patients without thrombocytopenia. Apart from thrombocytopenia, the male gender was also found to be an independent risk factor for mortality.
Identification of genomic regions associated with resistance to gastrointestinal parasites in an indigenous sheep by single‐ and multiple‐locus methods
Authors: Rafat S. A. , Barbato M. , Hajializadeh Valilou R. , Moghaddam G. H. , Nematollahi A. , Periasamy K. , Pichler R. , Ajmone Marsan P.
Published: January 2024

We investigated the association between 157 SNPs located in 75 candidate genes involved in the immune system and proxy traits for resistance to gastrointestinal nematodes in sheep. A total of 211 lambs from eight flocks were sampled. Nematode eggs per gram were counted and classified as: (i) Strongyles, (ii) Nematodirus spp., (iii) Trichuris spp. and (iv) Marshallagia marshalli. Single‐ and multiple‐locus models were used to test the marker–trait associations. Seven significant SNPs were identified on chromosomes OAR6, 15, 16, and 19. These findings provide insights for breeding nemarode‐resistant traits in low‐input production systems. General linear model, fixed and random model circulating probability unification, and Bayesian‐information and linkage‐disequilibrium iteratively nested keyway analyses identified a significant association between the eggs per gram of Strongyles nematodes and a specific variant of the PRLR gene.
Unwarranted variation and the goal of net zero for the NHS in England: exploring the link between efficiency working, patient outcomes and carbon footprint
Authors: van Hove M. , John J. B. , Ojelade E. , Ayyaz F. , Koris J. , Frame J. , Swart M. , Snowden C. , Briggs T. W. R. , Gray W. K.
Published: January 2024

In 2020 the NHS in England set a target of reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2040. Progress has already been made towards this goal, with substantial reductions in the use of environmentally harmful anaesthetic gases, such as desflurane, in recent years. Where an effective replacement already exists, changing practice to use low carbon alternatives is relatively easy to achieve, but much greater challenges lie ahead. The Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) programme is a clinically‐led, data‐driven clinical improvement initiative with a focus on reducing unwarranted variation in clinical practice and patient outcomes. Reducing unwarranted variation can improve patient care and service efficiency, and can also support the drive to net zero. In this article we set out what the GIRFT programme is doing to support sustainable healthcare in England, why it is uniquely positioned to support this goal and what the future challenges, barriers, enablers and opportunities are likely to be in the drive to net zero.
Refugees’ (In)dependency Conundrum: Obstructed Social Reproduction Activities and Unpaid Labour in Refugee Camps
Authors: Tazzioli Martina
Published: January 2024

This article uses the analytical lens of (in)dependency conundrum to highlight how asylum seekers in refugee camps are pushed to be self‐reliant while, however, their autonomous social reproduction activities and spaces of liveability are hindered. Focusing on Greece, it intertwines critical migration scholarship with feminist geography literature on unpaid labour to investigate refugees’ obstructed social reproduction activities. It moves on by exploring the (in)dependency conundrum that refugees face in Greece from a condition of protracted carcerality enforced beyond detention. In the third section it highlights the continuum between social reproduction activities and other unpaid labours done by asylum seekers in camps, as a result of humanitarianism’ s subtle coercion. In the last section it draws attention to refugees’ collective mobilisations in Greek refugee camps: raising punctual demands about food and accommodation, they articulated expansive claims about their right to autonomous social reproduction activities and to build infrastructures of liveability.
Ontogeny of a threatened freshwater minnow: Implications for conservation
Authors: Karageorgou Evangelia , Kapakos Yiannis , Barbieri Roberta , Vardakas Leonidas , Karakatsouli Nafsika , Kalogianni Eleni
Published: January 2024

Investigating the ontogeny of threatened freshwater fishes is vital for designing future conservation actions that will increase the potential of species' persistence. This study provides a detailed description of the early life stages of a threatened freshwater fish species, the Evrotas minnow Pelasgus laconicus, which occupies aquatic ecosystems with extreme seasonal hydrological variation. The study of the embryonic and juvenile stages was conducted in vivo using light microscopy from eggs obtained from acclimatized wild spawners at 20 ± 1°C. Fertilized eggs were spherical and transparent with a mean diameter of 1.24 ± 0.06 mm and the average length of free embryos at hatching was 3.85 mm NL (notochord length). The main morphological changes observed are related to the absorption of the yolk, the increase and distribution of the melanophores and the sequential development of the fins. In conclusion, the Evrotas minnow was identified as a multiple spawner, exhibiting a protracted reproductive period (March to August), a particularly short egg‐hatching period (5–6 days), a short free embryo stage and a rapid onset of exogenous feeding (2 days). The conservation implications of our study, such as safety stock creation, population reintroduction, conservation of fish refugia and breeding habitats and beaver dam analogues, are discussed.
Inflation response in a New Keynesian model with money illusion
Authors: Tamegawa Kenichi
Published: January 2024

This study investigates the role of money illusion (MI) in a dynamic stochastic general equilibrium model. We introduce MI such that households, in their intertemporal optimization, erroneously recognize nominal variables as real ones. We find that first, our model could exhibit money nonneutrality in the long run; second, the Taylor principle is a sufficient condition for determinacy but not a necessary condition; third, the response to output in monetary policy rule matters for the model not to exhibit money nonneutrality in the long run; and finally, MI could flatten the slope that represents the output‐inflation trade‐off.
Investigating the impact of autistic children's feeding difficulties on caregivers
Authors: Gent Valerie , Marshall Jeanne , Weir Kelly A. , Trembath David
Published: January 2024

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of children's autism characteristics, sensory profiles and feeding difficulties on caregiver‐reported impact at mealtimes.

Background

Caregivers of children (5–12 years) with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder completed an online survey examining (a) demographic characteristics, (b) children's autism characteristics (Social Communication Questionnaire), (c) sensory profiles (Sensory Profile 2–short form), (d) feeding difficulties (Behavioural Paediatrics Feeding Assessment Scale, BPFAS) and (c) caregiver‐reported impact of feeding difficulties (Feeding‐Swallowing Impact Survey, FS‐IS).

Results

Seventy‐eight caregivers completed surveys for 80 children. Children with clinically significant feeding difficulties on the BPFAS (n = 55, 68.8%) had higher levels of caregiver‐reported impact on daily activities, worry and feeding difficulties compared to children without clinically significant feeding difficulties (FS‐IS; U = 257.000, z = −4.471, p < 0.01). Spearman's rank correlation showed a statistically significant, moderate correlation between BPFAS total frequency score and FS‐IS Daily activities score, rs (98) = 0.56, p < 0.01, indicating that as the frequency of feeding difficulties increased, the impact of these feeding difficulties on caregivers also increased. Using multiple regression, a model comprising of the three factors was statistically significant (F[1, 78] = 87.75, p < 0.001, adj. R2 = 0.52), with children's frequency of feeding difficulties the strongest predictor of caregiver‐reported impact with a moderate effect size (r = 0.49).

Conclusion

Autistic children's feeding difficulties had a greater impact on caregivers than autism or sensory profiles, with the frequency of feeding difficulties and the caregiver impact of these feeding difficulties positively correlated. The findings demonstrate that efforts to understand and address feeding difficulties in autistic children must extend beyond the children to include their families.
How does ocular graft‐versus‐host disease fit under the dry eye umbrella? A review
Authors: Kantor Nicole B. , Tovar Arianna , Wang Trent , Galor Anat
Published: January 2024

Graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) is a systemic disease that can affect multiple organs as a consequence of an allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplant. One organ system that is often affected in GVHD is the eyes. Ocular GVHD (oGVHD) may involve various structures within the eye including the lacrimal glands, eyelids, conjunctiva, cornea, and nasolacrimal ducts, and is a source of morbidity in patients with GVHD. Common presenting features of GVHD overlap with dry eye disease (DED), including decreased tear production, epithelial disruption, and Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). In this review, we aim to compare oGVHD and DED to better understand the similarities and differences between the conditions, with a focus on pathophysiology, risk factors, clinical features, and treatments.
Preterm delivery and maternal obesity remain common complications in pregnancies with type 1 diabetes—A nationwide study in Sweden
Authors: Sandin Sven , Järnbert‐Pettersson Hans , Persson Martina
Published: January 2024

Aim

A primary goal of obstetric care of women with type 1 diabetes (T1D) is to reduce the risks of preterm birth (PTB). Besides hyperglycaemia, maternal obesity is an important risk factor for PTB in T1D. However, it's unclear if public health efforts decreased risks of maternal obesity and PTB in pregnancies with T1D. We examined time‐trends over the last 20 years in the distribution of gestational ages at birth (GA) in offspring of women with T1D in Sweden, and in maternal BMI in the same mothers.

Methods

Population‐based cohort study, using data from national registries in Sweden. To capture differences not only in the median values, we used quantile regression models to compare the whole distributions of GA's and early pregnancy BMI between deliveries in 1998–2007 (P1) and 2008–2016 (P2). Multivariable models were adjusted for differences in maternal age, smoking and education between periods 1 and 2.

Results

The study included 7639 offspring of women with T1D between 1998 and 2016. The 10% percentile GA, increased with 0.09 days (95% CI: −0.11 to 0.35) between P1 and P2. The 90% percentile for BMI was 1.20 kg/m2 higher (95% CI: 0.57 to 1.83) in P2. Risks of PTB remained stable over time also when adjusting for maternal BMI.

Conclusion

Despite modern diabetes management, the distribution of GA, and consequently the risk of PTB in T1D, remained unchanged from 1998 to 2016. During the same time, maternal BMI increased, particularly in the already obese.
Effect of basal insulin and omega 3 fatty acids on cognitive impairment in dysglycaemia: An exploratory analysis of the ORIGIN trial
Authors: Cukierman‐Yaffe Tali , Ramasundarahettige Chinthanie , Bosch Jackie , Gerstein Hertzel C.
Published: January 2024

Aim

The outcomes reduction with an initial glargine intervention (ORIGIN) trial reported that, allocation to insulin glargine‐mediated normoglycaemia versus standard care, and to omega 3 fatty acids versus placebo had a neutral effect on cognitive test scores when analysed as continuous variables. Analyses of these scores as standardized categorical variables using a previously validated strategy may yield different results.

Materials and Methods

The ORIGIN trial recruited participants with dysglycaemia and additional cardiovascular risk factors from 573 sites in 40 countries. They completed a mini mental state examination and a subset completed the digit symbol substitution test at baseline and up to three subsequent visits. The effect of the interventions on country‐standardized substantive cognitive impairment, defined as the first occurrence of a baseline‐adjusted follow‐up mini mental state examination or digit symbol substitution test score ≥1.5 standard deviations below the baseline mean score in each participant's country was assessed using Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

During a median follow‐up of 6.2 years, 2627 of 11 682 people (22.5%) developed country‐standardized substantive cognitive impairment. The hazard of this outcome was reduced by 9% (hazard ratio 0.91, 95% confidence interval 0.85, 0.99; p = .023) in participants assigned to insulin glargine (21.6%) versus standard care (23.3%). Conversely, the hazard of this outcome was not affected by assignment to omega 3 fatty acid versus placebo (hazard ratio 0.93, 95% confidence interval 0.86, 1.01; p = .074).

Conclusions

In this post hoc exploratory analysis, insulin glargine‐mediated normoglycaemia but not omega 3 fatty acids reduced the hazard of substantive cognitive impairment in people with dysglycaemia and additional cardiovascular risk factors.
Validation of an international classification of disease, tenth revision, clinical modification (ICD‐10‐CM) algorithm in identifying severe hypoglycaemia events for real‐world studies
Authors: Her Qoua L. , Dejene Sara Z. , Ismail Sherin , Wang Tiansheng , Jonsson‐Funk Michele , Pate Virigina , Min Jea Young , Flory James
Published: January 2024

Aim

The transition to the ICD‐10‐CM coding system has reduced the utility of hypoglycaemia algorithms based on ICD‐9‐CM diagnosis codes in real‐world studies of antidiabetic drugs. We mapped a validated ICD‐9‐CM hypoglycaemia algorithm to ICD‐10‐CM codes to create an ICD‐10‐CM hypoglycaemia algorithm and assessed its performance in identifying severe hypoglycaemia.

Materials and Methods

We assembled a cohort of Medicare patients with DM and linked electronic health record (EHR) data to the University of North Carolina Health System and identified candidate severe hypoglycaemia events from their Medicare claims using the ICD‐10‐CM hypoglycaemia algorithm. We confirmed severe hypoglycaemia by EHR review and computed a positive predictive value (PPV) of the algorithm to assess its performance. We refined the algorithm by removing poor performing codes (PPV ≤0.5) and computed a Cohen's statistic to evaluate the agreement of the EHR reviews.

Results

The algorithm identified 642 candidate severe hypoglycaemia events, and we confirmed 455 as true severe hypoglycaemia events, PPV of 0.709 (95% confidence interval: 0.672, 0.744). When we refined the algorithm, the PPV increased to 0.893 (0.862, 0.918) and missed <2.42% (<11) true severe hypoglycaemia events. Agreement between reviewers was high,  = 0.93 (0.89, 0.97).

Conclusions

We translated an ICD‐9‐CM hypoglycaemia algorithm to an ICD‐10‐CM version and found its performance was modest. The performance of the algorithm improved by removing poor performing codes at the trade‐off of missing very few severe hypoglycaemia events. The algorithm has the potential to be used to identify severe hypoglycaemia in real‐world studies of antidiabetic drugs.
Diagnostic accuracy of plain radiography to identify synovial penetration in horses with traumatic limb wounds
Authors: Michotte Marie , Raes Els , Oosterlinck Maarten
Published: January 2024

Background

The diagnostic value of plain radiography for diagnosing synovial penetration in limb wounds near synovial structures has not been determined.

Objectives

To assess diagnostic accuracy of plain radiography to identify synovial penetration in horses with traumatic limb wounds.

Study design

Retrospective case study.

Methods

Case records of horses presented to the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of Ghent University (2011–2021) with limb wounds near synovial structures were categorised in groups with and without synovial penetration using results of synovial fluid analysis and surgical findings. Plain radiographic images were evaluated retrospectively. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) were calculated for the total study sample and for the cases with and without use of a metallic probe in the wound during radiographic evaluation.

Results

Based on the total sample of 141 horses with synovial penetration and 75 cases without synovial involvement, plain radiography presented a sensitivity of 61% (95% CI: 52%–69%), a specificity of 81% (95% CI: 70%–89%), a PPV of 86% (95% CI: 79%–90%) and a NPV of 53% (95% CI: 46%–58%). With the use of a metallic probe, a sensitivity of 54% (95% Cl: 39%–69%), a specificity of 88% (95% Cl: 64%–99%), a PPV of 93% (95% Cl: 78%–98%) and a NPV of 41% (95% Cl: 32%–49%) were obtained.

Main limitations

Sample size did not allow comparing different synovial structures. Results can be influenced by individual case characteristics.

Conclusions

If findings of a series of plain radiographs suggest synovial penetration in horses with a wound near a synovial cavity, then synovial penetration is likely, but the absence of plain radiographic findings does not rule out synovial penetration. The use of a metallic probe during radiography may be helpful. However, plain radiography should be interpreted cautiously, and clinical decision making should also include other techniques.
Epidemiology and clinical features of paroxysmal hemicrania: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Henningsen Mikkel J. , Larsen Johanne G. , Karlsson William K. , Christensen Rune H. , Al‐Khazali Haidar M. , Amin Faisal Mohammad , Ashina Håkan
Published: January 2024

Objective

To assess the prevalence or relative frequency of paroxysmal hemicrania and its clinical features in the adult general population and among adult patients evaluated for headache in tertiary care.

Background

Paroxysmal hemicrania is a rare trigeminal autonomic cephalalgia with characteristic attacks of headache, associated cranial autonomic symptoms and signs, and an absolute response to indomethacin. Its epidemiological burden remains unknown in both the adult general population and among adult patients evaluated for headache in a tertiary care setting. Moreover, the frequencies of the clinical features associated with paroxysmal hemicrania have not been well established.

Methods

A literature search of PubMed and Embase was conducted from January 1, 1988, to January 20, 2023. Eligible for inclusion were observational studies reporting the point prevalence or relative frequency of paroxysmal hemicrania or its clinical features in the adult general population or among adult patients evaluated for headache in tertiary care. Two independent investigators (M.J.H. and J.G.L.) performed the title, abstract, and full‐text article screening. Each included study's risk of bias was critically appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Studies Reporting Prevalence Data. Estimates of prevalence or relative frequency were calculated using a random‐effects meta‐analysis. The between‐study heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic and further explored with meta‐regression. This study was pre‐registered on PROSPERO (identifier: CRD42023391127).

Results

A total of 17 clinic‐based studies and one population‐based study met the eligibility criteria. Importantly, an overall high risk of bias was observed across the eligible studies. The relative frequency of paroxysmal hemicrania was estimated to be 0.3% (95% CI, 0.2%–0.5%) among adult patients evaluated for headache in tertiary care with considerable heterogeneity (I2 = 76.4%). No cases with paroxysmal hemicrania were identified among 1,838 participants in a population‐based sample. Moreover, the most prevalent cranial autonomic symptoms were lacrimation (77.3% [95% Cl, 62.7%–87.3%]), conjunctival injection (75.0% [95% Cl, 60.3%–85.6%]), and nasal congestion (47.7% [95% Cl, 33.6%–62.3%]).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that paroxysmal hemicrania is a rare disorder among adults evaluated for headache in tertiary care, while its prevalence in the general population remains unknown. Further studies focusing on the clinical features of paroxysmal hemicrania are warranted.
Perspectives of researchers and clinicians on patient and public involvement (PPI) in preclinical spinal cord research: An interview study
Authors: Carroll Pádraig , Smith Éimear , Dervan Adrian , McCarthy Ciarán , Beirne Cliff , Quinlan John , Harte Geoff , O'Flynn Dónal , O'Brien Fergal J. , Moriarty Frank , Flood Michelle
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Patient and public involvement (PPI) in research is an embedded practice in clinical research, however, its role in preclinical or laboratory‐based research is less well established and presents specific challenges. This study aimed to explore the perspectives of two key stakeholder groups, preclinical researchers and clinicians on PPI in preclinical research, using spinal cord research as a case study.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted online with 11 clinicians and 11 preclinical researchers all working in the area of spinal cord injury (SCI). Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically.

Findings

Nine themes were developed through analysis. Participants' perspectives included that people living with SCI had a right to be involved, that PPI can improve the relevance of preclinical research, and that PPI can positively impact the experiences of researchers. They identified the distance between lab‐based research and the daily experiences of living with SCI to be a barrier and proactive management of accessibility and the motivated and networked SCI community as key facilitators. To develop strong partnerships, participants suggested setting clear expectations, ensuring good communication, and demonstrating respect for the time of PPI contributors involved in the research.

Conclusions

While traditionally PPI has been more commonly associated with clinical research, participants identified several potential benefits of PPI in preclinical spinal cord research that have applicability to preclinical researchers more broadly. Preclinical spinal researchers should explore how to include PPI in their work.

Patient or Public Contribution

This study was conducted as part of a broader project aiming to develop an evidence base for preclinical PPI that draws on a 5‐year preclinical research programme focused on the development of advanced biomaterials for spinal cord repair as a case study. A PPI Advisory Panel comprising seriously injured rugby players, clinicians, preclinical researchers, and PPI facilitators collaborated as co‐authors on the conceptualisation, design of the interview protocol, data analysis and writing of this manuscript.
Design and optimization of TiB2‐based ceramic tool materials based on fuzzy theory
Authors: Wang Dong , Bao Jingyang , Zhao Bo , Ding Zhengwei , Zheng Guang
Published: January 2024

Based on the material properties and fuzzy theory, a new design method of TiB2‐based composite ceramic tool material was proposed, and the TiB2‐based composite ceramic tool material with excellent friction and wear resistance was designed. Initially, the fuzzy evaluation method was used to establish the matrix of the friction and wear resistance of the material, and the TiB2‐based material component with excellent friction and wear resistance was determined. Ultimately, based on the principle of fuzzy cognitive map, the correlation mapping of “sintering process–microstructure–mechanical properties” was established, and the composition ratio and sintering process were optimized. The results show that the TiB2–TaC–TiC ceramic tool material had excellent friction and wear resistance. When the volume content of TaC was 8 vol.%, the volume content of TiC was 20 vol.%, the heating rate was 100°C/min, the holding time was 8 min, the sintering temperature was 1600°C, and the sintering pressure was 50 MPa, the mechanical properties were hardness 23.5 GPa, bending strength 438 MPa, and fracture toughness 10.26 MPa∙m1/2.
Ethical challenges for nurses delivering coercive interventions in community mental health settings: A scoping review
Authors: Haines Stephen , Stanton Robert , Anderson Carina , Welch Anthony
Published: January 2024

The number of Australians subject to coercive interventions in community mental health services continues to increase. This is in the context of a growing awareness of the harms from coercion, increasing concerns about potential breaches of human rights and an ongoing uncertainty regarding the clinical benefits of community treatment orders, the primary instrument of legislated coercion in community mental health services. Nurses in community mental health services are on the frontline with regard to coercion. They police the requirements of the community treatment order, administer medication to people in community settings without their consent and facilitate re‐hospitalisation if indicated. Coercive practice contradicts the person‐centred, recovery‐oriented and trauma‐informed care principles that inform contemporary mental health nursing. This contradiction may generate ethical challenges for nurses and result in ethical distress. The aim of this scoping review was to map the research literature on how nurses in community mental health settings recognise and manage the harm associated with the administration of coercive interventions and consider the ethical challenges that may arise within this practice. The search strategy yielded 562 studies with author consensus determining a total of three articles as meeting the inclusion criteria. The resulting literature identified three themes: (1) maintaining the therapeutic relationship, (2) promoting autonomy and (3) using subtle forms of control. This review demonstrated that there is minimal research that has considered the ethical challenges related to the use of coercion by nurses in community mental health settings.
Information systems‐enabled sustainability transformation: A study of an energy self‐sufficient village in Germany
Authors: Xu Linna , Du Wenyu (Derek) , Pan Shan L. , Send Hendrik , Grosse Matti
Published: January 2024

Information systems (IS) play an important role in helping organisations attain environmental sustainability targets, and how to use IS for sustainability transformation is attracting research attention. However, extant studies have mainly focused on such transformation of business enterprises, overlooking it of communities. Our study intends to fill this gap by conducting an in‐depth case study at Feldheim, a small village in Germany that has successfully built a renewable energy system using IS and achieved energy self‐sufficiency. Guided by the belief‐action‐outcome (BAO) framework, our study unveiled a process model of antecedents, belief and action formation, and outcomes specific to community‐based sustainability transformation. The model also reveals three roles that IS assume in such transformation: participation objects, connectivity enablement, and fluctuation mitigation. Our study contributes to the literature on IS‐enabled sustainability transformation by extending it from the business enterprise context to the community context. It also provides communities with guidelines for conducting IS‐enabled sustainability transformation.
Self‐lubricating effect of solid solution elements on tribological performance of Ti3AlC2 over a wide temperature range
Authors: Cai Leping , Li Jinxin , Luo Baoji , Yang Jie , He Nairu , Jia Junhong
Published: January 2024

This study explores the feasibility of tribological self‐lubricating over a wide temperature range by doping Si and Sn solid solution components on the A‐sites of Ti3AlC2 to adapt to the severe circumstances. The specimens were sintered at 1450°C for 120 min under a pressure of 30 MPa in a vacuum environment, and their dry sliding tribological capabilities against Al2O3 at temperatures ranging from ambient temperature to 800°C were investigated using a rotational ball‐on‐disk tribo‐tester. The findings demonstrated a constantly decreased friction coefficient of Ti3Al0.8Si0.2Sn0.2C2 throughout the temperature range and admirable antifriction at higher temperatures where wear rates were 1–2 orders of magnitude lower than those at room temperature, which was superior to earlier reported Ti3AlC2. The predominant friction surface self‐adaptability mechanisms after solid solution treatment were determined to be tribo‐oxidation wear and tribo‐chemical reactions that played a vital role by examining the microstructural evolutions and tribo‐chemical phase composition on friction surfaces at various temperatures. The tribo‐oxidation‐induced generated lubricant film consisting of TiO2, Al2O3, SnO2 mixture oxide phases, and aluminosilicates was responsible for the decreased friction coefficient and wear rate.
Systematic investigation of the influence of suspended particles on UV‐C inactivation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae in liquid food systems
Authors: Woll Benedikt , Cvetkova Svetlana , Gräf Volker , Scharfenberger‐Schmeer Maren , Durner Dominik , Stahl Mario
Published: January 2024

UV‐C treatment of food products is a non‐thermal, energy‐ and cost‐efficient alternative to traditional thermal treatment. To ensure a shelf‐stable product, it is necessary to understand the UV‐C dose–response relationship of spoilage microorganisms in liquid food. Two product parameters in particular have a significant affect on the UV‐C propagation through liquid food: the absorption of dissolved substances and the absorption and scattering of suspended particles in the liquid. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of suspended solids on the UV‐C inactivation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae in model suspensions with different opacifiers (silicon dioxide, titanium dioxide, microcrystalline cellulose, calcium carbonate, and polymethyl methacrylate [PMMA]). PMMA spheres with 11 different diameters ranging from 100 to 6 μm were used to determine the influence of particle size on the inactivation process. Particles with a high imaginary part with respect to the refractive index at 254 nm absorb the UV‐C light instead of scattering it. This energy loss results in less inactivation of S. cerevisiae. Non‐absorbing particles affect inactivation if their size results in Mie scattering. Suspensions of particles between 500 nm and 2 μm significantly reduce the efficiency of the process. The greatest influence is seen at a size of about 900 nm, where the Mie scattering efficiency of PMMA in water is at its maximum. Suspensions with turbidity of 1000 NTU, consisting of particles larger than 2 μm, had no effect on the inactivation of S. cerevisiae. Particle sizes that are in the Rayleigh scattering range (<500 nm) show little to no effect on inactivation. This correlation was confirmed by inactivation experiments of S. cerevisiae in cloudy and clarified apple and grape juice. The results show, that the determination of the particle size distribution and its ratio to the wavelength is crucial for predicting the efficiency of microorganism inactivation by UV‐C light.

Practical Applications

UV‐C treatment is a cold pasteurization process. It is a cost‐effective alternative to the conventional heat treatment. The inactivation of organisms only occurs when they are directly exposed to the UV‐C light. Liquid foods rather are suspensions than solutions. The presence of suspended particles can significantly reduce the efficacy of the treatment. It is imperative to understand the effect of suspended particles on process efficiency.
Enhancing the quality attributes of mint medicinal plant (Mentha spicata L.) through simultaneous combined ozone and infrared drying
Authors: Shafiee Zahra , Samani Bahram Hosseinzadeh , Rostami Sajad , Lorigooini Zahra , Jmashidi‐kia Fatemeh , Taki Kimia
Published: January 2024

Medicinal plants are widely used in various traditional and modern medical methods due to their therapeutic properties. Drying is a common method used to preserve the biochemical compounds of medicinal plants. Still, conventional drying methods can lead to the loss of active compounds due to exposure to high temperatures. This research aimed to design and construct an ozone generator for use in a combined dryer and evaluate the ozone, temperature, and hot air flow rate on the quality properties of mint (Mentha spicata L.). Drying experiments were conducted at varying temperatures, air flow speeds, and ozone levels. Results indicated that increasing temperature reduced total phenol and flavonoid content while increasing antioxidant capacity. Higher airflow speed positively influenced total phenol, total flavonoid content and antioxidant potency but reduced drying time. Ozone exposure increased total phenol, flavonoid content, antioxidant activity, and had minimal effect on drying time. Optimization revealed that a temperature of 52.47°C, air flow rate of 1.5 m/s, and 90.37% ozone concentration yielded favorable outcomes, including enhanced phenolic and flavonoid content, antioxidant power, and decreased energy consumption. Compared to other drying methods, the proposed ozone‐enhanced method proved superior in preserving bioactive compounds and maintaining a reasonable drying time. Overall, the research highlights the potential of ozone‐assisted drying for optimizing the quality of medicinal plants during preservation.

Practical Application

The paper introduces a novel and efficient method for preserving the quality of medicinal mint. By concurrently applying ozone and infrared drying techniques, this approach aims to capitalize on their synergistic effects in maintaining the plant's beneficial compounds. Ozone acts as a natural antimicrobial agent, preserving the plant's integrity, while infrared drying expedites the process without compromising the phytochemical profile. This innovative method not only ensures microbial safety and extended shelf life but also enhances the mint's aroma, flavor, and nutrient retention. The practical application of this combined technique holds promise for pharmaceutical and herbal industries, providing a valuable approach for optimizing the drying process and preserving the medicinal attributes of Mentha spicata L.