bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combination of secondary plant metabolites and micronutrients against Alzheimer disease in a SH-SY5Y-APP695 cell model
Authors: Babylon Lukas , Meißner Julia , Eckert Gunter P.
Published: April 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by mitochondrial dysfunction, increased Aβ levels and altered glycolysis. So far, there is no cure for AD, therefore it is important to take preventive or supportive action against AD. The cocktail (SC) tested in this study consists of the substances hesperetin (HstP), magnesium-orotate (MgOr) and folic acid (Fol), as well as the combination (KCC) of caffeine (Cof), kahweol (KW) and cafestol (CF). All the compounds showed positive results in the above mentioned fields of AD. The question arose whether a combination of all of them would also positively affect all three fields of AD. In this regard, SH-SY5Y-APP695cells were incubated with SC and ATP levels, complex respiration, Aβ levels, ROS levels, lactate and pyruvate levels were examined. The SC increased the endogenous respiration of the cells while significantly decreasing the Aβ1-40levels. SC has no significant effects on the other parameters. In summary, the combination of all compounds did not show the desired success that we hoped for, but the cocktail has potential to be further investigated. It is possible that the results will improve by changing the combinations or by adjusting the concentrations.
SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Reduces Burst Activities in Neurons Measured by Micro-Electrode Arrays
Authors: Salvador Melanie , Tseng Noah , Park Camdon , Williams Grace , Vethan Arianne , Thomas Grant , Baker John , Hemry Joseph , Hammond Emma , Freeburg Paige , Chou Guan-Wen , Taylor Nick , Lu Yi-Fan
Published: April 2023

SARS-CoV-2 caused a large-scale global pandemic between 2020 and 2022. Despite efforts to understand its biology and mechanisms of pathogenicity, the viral impact on the neurological systems remains unclear. The main goal of this study was to quantify the neurological phenotypes induced by SARS-CoV-2 spike protein in neurons, measured byin-vitromulti-well micro-electrode arrays (MEAs). We extracted the whole-brain neurons from the newborn P1 mice and plated them on multi-well micro-electrode arrays and administered purified recombinant spike proteins (S1 and S2 subunits respectively) from the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The signals from the MEAs were transmitted from an amplifier to a high-performance computer for recording and analysis. We used an in-house developed algorithm to quantify neuronal phenotypes. Among all the phenotypic features analyzed, we discovered that the S1 protein of SARS-CoV-2 decreased the mean burst numbers observed on each electrode; This effect was not observed for the spike 2 protein (S2) and could be rescued by an anti-S1 antibody. Finally, our data strongly suggest that the receptor binding domain (RBD) of S1 is responsible for the reduction of burst activities in neurons. Overall, our results strongly indicate that spike proteins may play an important role in altering neuronal phenotypes, specifically the burst patterns, when neurons are exposed during early development.
Statistical Analysis Plan for the Blood Pressure Postpartum (BP2) study
Authors: Brew Bronwyn K , Chambers Georgina M , Kotevski Damian , Henry Amanda
Published: April 2023

Background

Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy (HDP) complicate 5-10% of pregnancies globally: 2-5% preeclampsia, 3% gestational hypertension, and 0.5-2% chronic hypertension. It is epidemiologically well established that adverse health effects of HDP do not end with the pregnancy: these conditions are associated with increased lifetime cardiovascular disease (CVD) risks. However, intervention trial data in the early years postpartum after HDP, focussed on early intervention to reduce women’s ongoing CVD risks after HDP, is sparse.

Methods

The Blood Pressure Postpartum Trial (BP2) is a 3-arm randomised controlled trial investigating three different methods of follow-up and lifestyle behaviour change in the first 12 months postpartum following a pregnancy affected by HDP. The trial was prospectively registered on the Australian and New Zealand Clinical trials registry (registration: ACTRN12618002004246) and the study protocol has previously been published (Henry A et al, Pregnancy Hypertension 2020; 22: 1-6). This manuscript details the pre-analysis, pre-specified Statistical Analysis Plan.
Influence of co-occurring weakly pathogenic bacterial species on bacterial spot disease dynamics on tomato
Authors: Sadhukhan Shreya , Jacques Marie-Agnes , Potnis Neha
Published: April 2023

Mixed infections caused by multiple pathogenic and/ weakly pathogenic strains inhabiting the same host plants are common in nature and may modify pathogen dynamics. However, traditional plant pathogen studies have mostly focused on the binary interaction between a single host and a single pathogen. In this study, we have looked beyond this binary interaction and evaluated the impact of co-infection on disease dynamics on tomato using bacterial spot pathogen,Xanthomonas perforans(Xp) and two co-occurring weakly pathogenic strains ofX. arboricola(Xa) andPseudomonas capsici(Pc). Time-series greenhouse co-infection experiments monitoring disease severity and within-host population dynamics revealed higher disease severity in co-infection by three species compared to infection byXpalone. However, co-infection by dual species,XpandPcorXaresulted in lower disease severity compared toXpalone. Thus, co-infection outcomes depend on interacting species. Weak pathogens could exploitXpto colonize the host plant as indicated by their higher populations in co-infection. However,Xppopulation dynamics was dependent on co-infecting partner. While resource competition might be a possible explanation for lowerXppopulation in dual co-infection, interaction ofPcwith the host was found to influenceXppopulation. Interestingly,Xppopulation was higher in presence of three-species interaction compared toXpandXaco-infection, suggesting potential modulation of co-operative interactions amongXpandXain three-species co-infection rather than competitive interactions. Humidity played a significant role in population dynamics of the three species. Overall, this study highlighted importance of co-infection dynamics in studying plant disease outbreaks.
Sustainable supply chains in the heavy vehicle and equipment industry: a multiple-case study of four manufacturers
Authors: Shekarian Ehsan , Prashar Anupama , Majava Jukka , Khan Iqra Sadaf , Ayati Sayed Mohammad , Sillanpää Ilkka
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Recently, interest in sustainability has grown globally in the heavy vehicle and equipment industry (HVEI). However, this industry's complexity poses a challenge to the implementation of generic sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) practices. This study aims to identify SSCM's barriers, practices and performance (BPP) indicators in the HVEI context.

Design/methodology/approach

The results are derived from case studies of four multinational manufacturers. Within-case and cross-case analyses were conducted to categorise the SSCM BPP indicators that are unique to HVEI supply chains.

Findings

This study's analysis revealed that supply chain cost implications and a deficient information flow between focal firms and supply chain partners are the key barriers to SSCM in the HVEI. This analysis also revealed a set of policies, programmes and procedures that manufacturers have adopted to address SSCM barriers. The most common SSCM performance indicators included eco-portfolio sales to assess economic performance, health and safety indicators for social sustainability and carbon- and energy-related measures for environmental sustainability.

Practical implications

The insights can help HVEI firms understand and overcome the typical SSCM barriers in their industry and develop, deploy and optimise their SSCM strategies and practices. Managers can use this knowledge to identify appropriate mechanisms with which to accelerate their transition into a sustainable business and effectively measure performance outcomes.

Originality/value

The extant SSCM literature has focused on the light vehicle industry, and it has lacked a concrete examination of HVEI supply chains' sustainability BPP. This study develops a framework that simultaneously analyses SSCM BPP in the HVEI.
A novel fractional-order discrete grey Gompertz model for analyzing the aging population in Jiangsu Province, China
Authors: Zhang Weiliang , Liu Sifeng , Liu Lianyi , Rathnayaka R.M. Kapila Tharanga , Xie Naiming , Du Junliang
Published: April 2023

Purpose

China's population aging is gradually deepening and needs to be actively addressed. The purpose of this paper is to construct a novel model for analyzing the population aging.

Design/methodology/approach

To analyze the aging status of a region, this study has considered three major indicators: total population, aged population and the proportion of the aged population. Additionally, the authors have developed a novel grey population prediction model that incorporates the fractional-order accumulation operator and Gompertz model (GM). By combining these techniques, the authors' model provides a comprehensive and accurate prediction of population aging trends in Jiangsu Province. This research methodology has the potential to contribute to the development of effective policy solutions to address the challenges posed by the population aging.

Findings

The fractional-order discrete grey GM is suitable for predicting the aging population and has good performance. The population aging of Jiangsu Province will continue to deepen in the next few years.

Practical implications

The proposed model can be used to predict and analyze aging differences in Jiangsu Province. Based on the prediction and analysis results, identified some corresponding countermeasures are suggested to address the challenges of Jiangsu's future aging problem.

Originality/value

The fractional-order discrete grey GM is firstly proposed in this paper and this model is a novel grey population prediction model with good performance.
Grey forecast of electricity production from coal and renewable sources in the USA, Japan and China
Authors: Tulkinov Shavkatjon
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Electricity plays an essential role in nations' economic development. However, coal and renewables currently play an important part in electricity production in major world economies. The current study aims to forecast the electricity production from coal and renewables in the USA, China and Japan.

Design/methodology/approach

Two intelligent grey forecasting models – optimized discrete grey forecasting model DGM (1,1,α), and optimized even grey forecasting model EGM (1,1,α,θ) – are used to forecast electricity production. Also, the accuracy of the forecasts is measured through the mean absolute percentage error (MAPE).

Findings

Coal-powered electricity production is decreasing, while renewable energy production is increasing in the major economies (MEs). China's coal-fired electricity production continues to grow. The forecasts generated by the two grey models are more accurate than that by the classical models EGM (1,1) and DGM (1,1) and the exponential triple smoothing (ETS).

Originality/value

The study confirms the reliability and validity of grey forecasting models to predict electricity production in the MEs.
Factors determining bank selection by micro- and small-sized enterprises: evidence from Ethiopia
Authors: Mulu Zelie Enyew
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to explore the importance of various factors considered in the bank selection decisions of micro- and small-sized enterprises (MSEs) in Ethiopia.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a structured questionnaire to collect data from 300 MSEs selected through a convenience sampling technique. Descriptive statistics, exploratory factor analysis and linear regression analysis methods are used to identify the most important factors determining bank selection by MSEs.

Findings

The results of exploratory factor analysis revealed that the availability of credit at a reasonable interest rate, lower service charges and the availability of better automated teller machine (ATM) services are the priorities of MSEs in their bank selection decisions. In addition, the results of regression analysis indicated that price competitiveness is the most important factor determining bank selection decisions of MSEs.

Research limitations/implications

This study has two major limitations: first, due to resource constraints, the samples included in this study were taken only from the capital city of the country, Addis Ababa. As customer preferences are likely to vary from region to region, future studies could be carried out by including samples from other cities and rural areas of the country. Second, the study relied on a single data collection instrument. The use of additional data collection instruments, such as interviews and focus group discussions, could provide additional insights into the topic.

Practical implications

Commercial banks need to devise a flexible lending policy and set affordable interest rates and collateral requirements to meet the credit needs of MSEs. MSEs, on the other hand, need to improve their bankability by improving their operating and financial reporting practices. Further research can be conducted by covering other cities and the rural parts of the country.

Originality/value

The topic of bank selection has not been explored with a specific reference to MSEs in Ethiopia. The present study addressed this gap by investigating the factors influencing bank selection decisions of MSEs.
The complementary effects of bank intangible value binding in customer robo-advisory adoption
Authors: Chou Szu-Yu , Lin Chih-Wei , Chen Yi-Chun , Chiou Jyh-Shen
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This study aims to propose an integrated view and emphasize the importance of bank intangible value binding in customers' robo-advisory adoption. It explores the relationship between robo-advisors and traditional banking and defines the role of bank intangible assets value. It also attempts to understand if trust in the banking institution and the financial consultant determines the effect of these relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

The target sample of the study was investors who currently use wealth management services. This study collected 228 valid questionnaires and then executed structural equation model analysis to test the hypotheses.

Findings

Results showed that intangible value bindings play a mediating role, which positively affects consumers' willingness to adopt robo-advisors. Consumers' trust in banks and financial consultants are antecedent variables, which positively affect the intangible value bindings between consumers and banks. In addition, when the consumers' investment amount is higher, it will weaken the positive relationship between the intangible value binding and robo-advisor adoption intention.

Originality/value

Most of the past studies have focused on whether robo-advisors would replace personal financial consultants. This study proposes a hybrid model that contains both robo-advisors and traditional banking services, which encourage the acceptance of robo-advisors.
The use of virtual social networks during the anticipatory phase to reduce perceived crime risk and increase trust in organizers
Authors: Luna-Cortes Gonzalo
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Academics recently identified a lack of research regarding who should guide interactions in virtual social networks when risks appear. Data shows that organizers are usually less active than other users in this context, which can lead to negative reactions among attendees. This research examines if and how virtual social network communication guided by an official source (vs a nonofficial source vs control group) reduces perceived crime risks and trust before the event, leading to lower ambivalence and higher intention to attend. The study was conducted in Colombia, a country where many individuals face this type of risk.

Design/methodology/approach

First-year university students (N = 210) from Colombia were invited to a “Welcome Cocktail”. Two weeks before the cocktail, they were divided into three groups (70 per condition) to receive information. In Group 1, participants were invited to be part of a WhatsApp group administered by one of the organizers. In Group 2, they participated in a WhatsApp group administered by a student. Group 3 was the control (i.e. no virtual communication established before the event). One week after the meeting, they were gathered again and answered a questionnaire, which measured perceived crime risk, trust, ambivalence and intention to attend.

Findings

Participants in the WhatsApp group administered by an official source perceived lower risk and higher trust in the organizers, which led to lower ambivalence towards the event and higher intention to attend it. The relationship between ambivalence and intention to attend is moderated by the nationality of the participants (locals vs foreigners), such as, at equal levels of ambivalence, foreigners show lower intention to attend the event.

Originality/value

This is the first study that compares different approaches on a virtual social network to reduce perceived crime risk in event management. The results present new findings on how the presence of an official source can mitigate this risk, and which potential attendees (i.e. locals vs foreigners) are especially benefited from it. The findings are particularly useful for managers in regions where attendees face crime risks every day, and might feel low trust towards public and private institutions, such as in Colombia.
Idiosyncratic volatility in commodity futures markets: measurement and puzzle
Authors: Hong Liu , Zhou Tianpeng
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to propose an alternative method to measure idiosyncratic volatility and test whether the idiosyncratic volatility puzzle holds in commodity futures markets.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes a partially new measure of idiosyncratic volatility in commodity futures markets based on the Schwartz and Smith (2000) short-term/long-term model. This model enables us to capture systematic risks of commodity futures markets in a parsimonious way.

Findings

Using a sample of futures contracts for 20 commodities from 1973 to 2022, this paper demonstrates that idiosyncratic volatility is more significant than systematic volatility in commodity futures markets, and that the idiosyncratic volatility puzzle does not hold in these markets. This paper also performs robustness tests to investigate whether the puzzle holds during subsample periods when commodity markets are more volatile and find consistent results. This study highlights the differences between commodity futures markets and equity markets and emphasizes the importance of investigating idiosyncratic volatility in commodity futures markets.

Originality/value

The contributions of this paper are threefold. First, this paper contributes to the literature by focusing on the idiosyncratic volatility of commodity futures returns. Second, this paper constructs a partially new measure of idiosyncratic volatility in commodity futures markets. Finally, this paper also contributes to the literature on the idiosyncratic volatility puzzle and demonstrates that the puzzle may not exist in commodity futures markets.
Therapists’ attitudes towards the use of AI in therapeutic practice: considering the therapeutic alliance
Authors: Prescott Julie , Hanley Terry
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The aim of this research is to gain an insight into the attitudes that therapists, both qualified and trainee, have towards the use of artificial intelligence (AI)/machine therapy in therapeutic practice. The paper also aims to gain an insight into attitudes towards machine therapy and the potential of developing a therapeutic alliance with a machine therapist.

Design/methodology/approach

A short questionnaire was developed to gauge therapists and trainee therapists’ attitudes towards machine therapy. The questionnaire included a scenario for participants to read and then respond to questions on the therapeutic alliance using questions based upon those asked on the working alliance short inventory scale. At the end of the questionnaire, there was also the opportunity for participants to respond to an open-ended question.

Findings

It is evident from the responses that there is a clear reservation about the use of AI technology within the therapeutic setting. In spite of this reticence, many participants recognised the potential and are open to the possibilities this technology can bring. It was notable that the therapists largest concern was about the potential to create a strong bond with a machine therapist.

Originality/value

This paper presents findings on therapists’ attitudes towards AI use within therapeutic practice and machine therapy. Whilst limited in scope, it provides a yardstick for considering the way that attitudes towards these emerging technologies might change in the future.
Emotional labour and burnout among police officers
Authors: Hopkins Benjamin , Dowell David , Flitton Joe
Published: April 2023

Purpose

With rare research access to the police service in the United Kingdom, the authors investigate levels of burnout and the performance of emotional labour.

Design/methodology/approach

Using 330 surveys completed by serving police officers, the authors investigate levels of burnout and also the performance of the three elements of emotional labour.

Findings

Investigating heterogeneity, the authors create a typology of three different types of officer. In addition to a core group, this includes groups with misaligned and matching values. Surface acting impacts on all groups, and in each group it is associated with increased levels of burnout.

Originality/value

A unique feature of this research is the involvement of a practitioner from the police service in the authorship team, together with re-engagement with the police service in order to refine this typology. Possible coping strategies are introduced following this consultation.
Relevance of zoning small to medium size (StMS) shops in contemporary English valuation surveying practice in Newcastle upon Tyne, England
Authors: Abdulai Raymond Talinbe
Published: April 2023

Purpose

In English valuation practice, when valuing small to medium size (StMS) shops, rental analysis is undertaken using zoning based on the argument that shop fronts including window displays attract customers to shops and that most trading takes place in the internal frontage area making it the most valuable part of shops. Albeit zoning has been critiqued, it remains the preferred method of rental analysis. The paper aims to answer two research questions: are shop fronts including window displays the only factor that attracts customers to shops? And is the frontage space within shops the area most trading takes place?

Design/methodology/approach

The exploratory qualitative research methodology was used, and primary data collected by observing 178 shops in selected five shopping areas. The observational data were complemented with the use of secondary data.

Findings

The study has shown that shop fronts are not the only factor attracting clientele to shops as there are other varied factors including location, availability of Internet and hoardings. There is no evidence to suggest most goods in shops are displayed at the frontage space that attract most customers to that area, thereby, making the area the most valuable part, which decreases backwards.

Practical implications

These findings coupled with extant research evidence implies zoning can lead to under or over valuation of StMS shops (which is not good for retail real estate (RE) management or market), and turnover generated from shops is the overarching determinant of rental values in valuation.

Originality/value

This is the first time the very foundation/underpinning principles of zoning have been subjected to scrutiny in England.
A hedonic value-based consumer continuance intention model toward location-based advertising
Authors: Le Xuan Cu
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Hedonic value is commonly conceded as a determinant of behavioral intentions toward location-based advertising (LBA). However, the careful consideration of a mechanism behind hedonic motivation and its subsequent impact on continuance intention is inadequate. This study aims to explore the formation of hedonic value and its motivation for prolonged usage toward LBA.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 486 mobile users was recruited to evaluate the research model using structural equation modeling (SEM).

Findings

Results reveal that perceived utility and promotional offers are the strongest indicators of hedonic value. Moreover, social support and contextual convenience play an essential role in heightening hedonic value. Furthermore, the research lenses attempt to clarify the direct, indirect influences of hedonic value, irritation and perceived credibility on continuance intention.

Practical implications

The findings offer practitioners an understanding of how to improve hedonic value and continuance intention and develop effective LBA strategies in emerging markets.

Originality/value

This study narrows the gap of current literature by formulating a hedonic value-based continuance intention model based on uses and gratifications theory (UGT). Additionally, this work illuminates the insights into hedonic value toward LBA by identifying its motivations, including perceived utility, promotional offers, social support and contextual convenience.
Does environmental quality respond (a)symmetrically to (in)formal economies? Evidence from Nigeria
Authors: Arnaut Marina , Dada James Temitope , Sharimakin Akinwumi , Al-Faryan Mamdouh Abdulaziz Saleh
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Several studies have examined the effect of formal economy (usually proxy by economic growth) on environmental quality; however, the symmetric and asymmetric impact of the informal economy on environmental quality has not been examined in Nigeria. Therefore, this study aims to explore the short- and long-run (a)symmetric effect of formal and informal economies and financial development on Nigeria’s environmental quality between 1984 and 2017.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses ecological footprint to measure environmental quality. An increase in ecological footprint suggests a fall in environmental quality. Informal economy is calculated as a percentage of GDP using the currency demand approach. Autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL), nonlinear ARDL cointegration framework and vector error correction granger causality are used as estimation techniques.

Findings

The study’s outcomes establish the existence of asymmetric structure in the link between economic activities and the environment both in the short and long run. The asymmetric results reveal that positive and negative changes in the formal economy increase the ecological footprint in both periods. Hence, activities in the formal economy reduce environmental quality. On the other hand, positive and negative changes in the informal economy only positively influence the ecological footprint in the long run. In contrast, it negatively impacts the ecological footprint in the short run. This suggests that activities in the informal economy worsen the long-run environmental quality. Financial development has a positive influence on the ecological footprint, thus degrading the environmental quality. Furthermore, in the short run, a unidirectional relationship from the formal economy to the ecological footprint, while a bidirectional causality exists between informal and formal economies. Meanwhile, a unidirectional causality from the (in)formal economies and financial development to the ecological footprint was found in the long run.

Practical implications

The outcome of this study shows that both informal and formal economies contribute to ecological footprint; therefore, mainstreaming the informal economy into the formal economy will further increase the problem of environmental degradation and worsen environmental quality.

Originality/value

The study investigates the symmetric and asymmetric effect of formal and informal economies on environmental quality in Nigeria, which is largely missing in the empirical literature.
Enhancement of combustion and emission characteristics of diesel using lavender oil blending
Authors: Settypalli Revanth Kumar Reddy
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This study aims at improving combustion process to reduce emissions. Emissions such as carbon monoxide, particulate matter and unburnt hydrocarbons are a result of incomplete combustion. These emissions have useful energy but cannot be reclaimed. Hence, to enhance combustion, effect of biofuel blending on diesel combustion was investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

Essential oils have been found easier for blending with diesel because of simple molecular structure compared to vegetable oils. Lavender oil is an essential oil which has not yet been studied by blending with diesel. The major constituents of lavender oil are linalyl acetate (cetane number improver) and linalool (nitrogen oxides reduction). A single-cylinder, four-stroke diesel engine was run by blending diesel with lavender oil (Lavandula angustifolia oil [LAO]) in varying proportions, 5%, 10% and 15% by volume.

Findings

Higher heat release rate (HRR) was observed using lavender oil blends compared to pure diesel. Compared to diesel, an increase in brake-specific fuel consumption using blends was observed. LAO15 has the lowest CO emissions at all loading conditions, 29.3% less at 100% load compared to diesel. LAO5 and LAO15 have 6.9% less HC emissions at 100% load condition compared to diesel. LAO15 has only 1.3% higher NOx emissions compared to diesel at 100% load condition. LAO5 has the lowest smoke content at all loading conditions.

Research limitations/implications

Lavender oil was used directly without any processing. Tested on single-cylinder engine.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, currently, there is no published work on lavender oil–diesel combination. Lavender oil can provide a simple renewable solution for diesel additives with potential up to 15% blending.
Judicial Power and Influence on Population Health
Authors: GOSTIN LAWRENCE O.
Published: April 2023

Policy Points

Since its founding, the Supreme Court has played a major role in defining the parameters of governments’ public health powers and the scope of individual health‐related rights. Although conservative courts have been less favorable to public health objectives, federal courts have, for the most part, advanced public health interests through consensus and adherence to the rule of law.

In establishing the current six–three conservative supermajority, the Trump administration and the Senate shifted the Supreme Court dramatically. A majority of Justices, led by Chief Justice Roberts, did shift the Court in a decidedly conservative direction. It did so incrementally, guided by the Chief's intuition that the Institution itself should be preserved, mindful of maintaining public trust and appearing outside the political fray. That has all changed because Roberts’ voice no longer holds sway. Five members of the Court have displayed a willingness to overturn even long‐held precedent and dismantle public health policy in favor of the Justices’ core ideological tenants—notably the extensive reach of the First and Second Amendments and a parsimonious view of executive and administrative action.

Public health is vulnerable to judicial rulings in this new conservative era. This includes classic public health powers in infectious disease control as well as reproductive rights; lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, queer or questioning, and others (LGBTQ+) rights; firearm safety; immigration; and climate change.

Congress has the power to curb the most extreme actions of the Court while still adhering to the vital ideal of a nonpolitical branch. That does not require Congress itself to overreach (such as by “packing” the Supreme Court, as Franklin Delaeno Roosevelt once proposed). Congress could, however, 1) disempower lower federal judges from issuing injunctions that apply nationwide, 2) limit the Supreme Court's so‐called shadow docket, 3) alter the way that presidents appoint federal judges, and 4) set reasonable term limits for federal judges and Supreme Court Justices.
A Population Health Impact Pyramid for Health Care
Authors: ALBERTI PHILIP M. , PIERCE HEATHER H.
Published: April 2023

Policy Points

To meaningfully impact population health and health equity, health care organizations must take a multipronged approach that ranges from education to advocacy, recognizing that more impactful efforts are often more complex or resource intensive.

Given that population health is advanced in communities and not doctors’ offices, health care organizations must use their advocacy voices in service of population health policy, not just health care policy.

Foundational to all population health and health equity efforts are authentic community partnerships and a commitment to demonstrating health care organizations are worthy of their communities’ trust.
US State Policy Contexts and Population Health
Authors: MONTEZ JENNIFER KARAS , GRUMBACH JACOB M.
Published: April 2023

Policy Points

This Perspective connects the dots between the polarization in US states’ policy contexts and the divergence in population health across states.

Key interlocking forces that fueled this polarization are the political investments of wealthy individuals and organizations and the nationalization of US political parties.

Key policy priorities for the next decade include ensuring all Americans have opportunities for economic security, deterring behaviors that kill or injure hundreds of thousands of Americans each year, and protecting voting rights and democratic functioning.
Futureproofing Social Support Policies for Population Health
Authors: MUENNIG PETER
Published: April 2023

Policy Points

In America, wages appear to be growing relative to purchasing power over time. However, while the ability to purchase consumer goods has indeed improved, the cost of basic survival needs such as health care and education has increased faster than wages have grown.

America's weakening social policy landscape has led to a massive socioeconomic rupture in which the middle class is disappearing, such that most Americans now cannot afford basic survival needs, such as education and health insurance.

Social policies strive to rebalance societal resources from socioeconomically advantaged groups to those in need. Education and health insurance benefits have been experimentally proven to also improve health and longevity. The biological pathways through which they work are also understood.
Upstream Policy Changes to Improve Population Health and Health Equity: A Priority Agenda
Authors: RAY RASHAWN , LANTZ PAULA M. , WILLIAMS DAVID
Published: April 2023

Policy Points

Upstream factors—social structures/systems, cultural factors, and public policy—are primary forces that drive downstream patterns and inequities in health that are observed across race and locations.

A public policy agenda that aims to address inequities related to the well‐being of children, creation and perpetuation of residential segregation, and racial segregation can address upstream factors.

Past successes and failures provide a blueprint for addressing upstream health issues and inhibit health equity.
Transvenous occlusion of incompetent pelvic veins to treat chronic pelvic pain in women: A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Hansrani Vivak , Riding David , Seif Mourad W. , Caress Ann‐Louise , Payne Katherine , Ghosh Jonathan , McCollum Charles N.
Published: April 2023

Objective

To investigate the effectiveness of transvenous occlusion of incompetent pelvic veins in women presenting with chronic pelvic pain (CPP) in improving symptoms and quality of life.

Design

Patient‐blinded randomised controlled trial with objective outcome measures. Results were analysed on an intention‐to‐treat basis.

Setting

Gynaecology and Vascular Surgery Services of two teaching hospitals in northwest England.

Population

Sixty women aged 18–54 years presenting with CPP after exclusion of other pathology, and who were found to have pelvic vein incompetence.

Methods

Participants were randomised and assigned to contrast venography alone or contrast venography plus transvenous occlusion of the incompetent pelvic veins.

Main outcome measure

The primary outcome was change in pain score measured using the short‐form McGill Pain Score (SF‐MPQ) and the Visual Analogue Score (VAS) recorded at 12 months post‐randomisation. Secondary outcomes included quality of life using the EQ‐5D instrument, symptomatic improvement and procedure‐related complications.

Results

Sixty participants were randomised to transvenous occlusion of incompetent pelvic veins or venography only. At 12 months, median pain scored 2 (3–10) in the intervention group versus 9 (5–22) in controls (p = 0.016). Pain on the VAS scored 15 (0–3) versus 53 (20–71), respectively (p = 0.002). Median EQ‐5D improved after intervention from 0.79 (0.74–0.84) to 0.84 (0.79–1.00; p = 0.008) over 12 months. No major complications were reported.

Conclusion

Transvenous occlusion of pelvic vein incompetence reduced pain scores, improved quality of life and diminished symptom burden with no major reported complications.

Trial registration

ISRCTN 15091500.
Climate change effects on desert date Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Delile in Benin: Implications for conservation and domestication
Authors: Hounsou‐Dindin G. , Idohou R. , Donou Hounsode M. T. , Adomou A. C. , Assogbadjo A. E. , Glèlè Kakaï R.
Published: April 2023

Effectiveness of Balanites aegyptiaca conservation and sustainable exploitation requires a better knowledge of the intrinsic environmental factors linked with its current and future geographic distribution. This study aimed to map suitable areas for the conservation and domestication of B. aegyptiaca under present‐day and future climate conditions in Benin. A total of 424 occurrence records of B. aegyptiaca were combined with the environmental variables of two climatic scenarios (optimistic RCP 4.5 and pessimistic RCP 8.5) following the biodiversity modeling approach (biomod2). Findings were that under current and future climate conditions (RCP 4.5 and 8.5), almost one‐third of the country's area (protected and non‐protected areas), mainly located in the semiarid zone, presents a high probability of suitable areas for the conservation and domestication of B. aegyptiaca by 2055 time horizon. Exceptionally, a fine portion of medium suitable area for its distribution was found in the coastal area. Whatever the future climatic scenarios, a probable potential extension of the suitable areas (2.52% for RCP 4.5 and 0.43% for RCP 8.5) will be noted, thus emphasizing a positive impact of climate changes on the species. These findings are timely and could be used for setting appropriate management policies targeting the species in Benin.
Greening the CAP from Farm to Fork: Roots of Italy's Resistance to the Process of Reform
Authors: Maneschi Maria Antonietta
Published: April 2023

Many Member States and diverse stakeholders continue to present conservative positions in the CAP reform process to enhance environmental sustainability. During the last process of reform, the Italian Ministry of Agriculture favoured the maintenance of the status quo of the payments, minimising environmental ambitions. Behind this positioning there is a powerful farmers’ organisation – Coldiretti – that has a major political role in the Italian context. Coldiretti and the Ministry have built a historical bloc which exercises a hegemonic power in the Italian agricultural policy‐network. On the other side, the coalition Cambiamo Agricultura, mobilising for the greening of the CAP and for an agroecological transition, is highly marginalised. However, changes in the power equilibria could emerge and the coalition Cambiamo Agricoltura could potentially have a major role in this transition. It could strengthen its visibility in the national media; inform civil society and reinforce the consensus in public opinion for a transition in the agricultural sector; it could also open a direct dialogue and collaboration with Coldiretti, promoting the integration of ambitious environmental objectives within the discourse of the main farmers’ organisation itself. The result would be inclusion of the actors for transition within the decision‐making process, resulting in greener positions for the next CAP reform.
Iatrogenic Demodex folliculitis: A case report
Authors: Deo Neha , Isaq Nasro A. , Peters Margot S. , Link Jenny
Published: April 2023

Demodex folliculorum is a commensal mite that inhabits the orifices of cutaneous pilosebaceous follicles. Overgrowth of these organisms can lead to Demodex folliculitis, which typically presents as papules and pustules predominantly involving the temples, cheeks, and occasionally the chest. We present a 51‐year‐old woman with iatrogenic Demodex folliculitis secondary to immunosuppressive treatment for an autoimmune connective tissue disease. Histopathological exam of a skin biopsy, which revealed follicular Demodex mites, confirmed the diagnosis. The eruption was treated with oral ivermectin and topical metronidazole gel, and the patient's immunosuppressive regimen was decreased, resulting in marked improvement in the eruption within 6 weeks and no worsening of her underlying autoimmune disorder. This case emphasizes the importance of considering Demodex folliculitis in the differential diagnosis of a new onset rash in the context of immunosuppressive treatment.
Missing the SDGs: Political accountability for insufficient environmental action
Authors: Partzsch Lena
Published: April 2023

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) demonstrate an integration of development and environmental agendas. However, none of the environmental sub‐targets, which were due by 2020, were accomplished. Global governance through goal setting requires functioning mechanisms of accountability. Based on a theoretical framework that differentiates between public, private and voluntary logic of accountability, the article illustratively explores accountability mechanisms concerning the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This allows to discuss the untapped potential for holding power wielders, such as governments, private companies, and norm champions, accountable. While the SDGs were adopted within public governance institutions, there are regulative means of accountability available that follow private and voluntary logic. Acknowledging this hybrid character of accountability in the implementation stage, the article concludes that there is a need for additional research to explore dimensions of non‐public accountability for goals agreed upon by the international community. SDG indicators should be mandatory for corporate reporting, and civil society organisations should report more comprehensively on the spread of environmental norms in global development.
The Nordic perioperative and intensive care registries—Collaboration and research possibilities
Authors: Kvåle Reidar , Möller Morten Hylander , Porkkala Timo , Varpula Tero , Enlund Gunnar , Engerstrôm Lars , Sigurdsson Martin Ingi , Thormar Katrin , Garde Kim , Christensen Steffen , Buanes Eirik Alnes , Sverrisson Kristinn
Published: April 2023

Background

The Nordic perioperative and intensive care registries have been built up during the last 25 years to improve quality in intensive and perioperative care. We aimed to describe the Nordic perioperative and intensive care registries and to highlight possibilities and challenges in future research collaboration between these registries.

Material and method

We present an overview of the following Nordic registries: Swedish Perioperative Registry (SPOR), the Danish Anesthesia Database (DAD), the Finnish Perioperative Database (FIN‐AN), the Icelandic Anesthesia Database (IS‐AN), the Danish Intensive Care Database (DID), the Swedish Intensive Care Registry (SIR), the Finnish Intensive Care Consortium, the Norwegian Intensive Care and Pandemic Registry (NIPaR), and the Icelandic Intensive Care Registry (IS‐ICU).

Results

Health care systems and patient populations are similar in the Nordic countries. Despite certain differences in data structure and clinical variables, the perioperative and intensive care registries have enough in common to enable research collaboration. In the future, even a common Nordic registry could be possible.

Conclusion

Collaboration between the Nordic perioperative and intensive care registries is both possible and likely to produce research of high quality. Research collaboration between registries may have several add‐on effects and stimulate international standardization regarding definitions, scoring systems, and benchmarks, thereby improving overall quality of care.
The role of culture in the association between racial discrimination and alcohol use among North American Indigenous adolescents reporting recent drinking
Authors: Schick Melissa R. , Nalven Tessa , Egan Alana , Spillane Nichea S.
Published: April 2023

Background

North American Indigenous (NAI) communities have identified alcohol use as a primary health concern. Experiences of racial discrimination are associated with greater alcohol use, but findings are mixed regarding the role of culture in this relationship. The goal of the present study was to examine the role of culture in the association between racial discrimination and alcohol use.

Methods

Across two studies (Study 1: N = 52; Study 2: N = 1743), NAI adolescents living on or near NAI reservations who reported recent alcohol use completed self‐report measures of racial discrimination, cultural affiliation, and alcohol use (e.g., frequency).

Results

Bivariate correlations revealed a significant positive association between racial discrimination and alcohol use (Study 1: r = 0.31, p = 0.029; Study 2: r = 0.14, p < 0.001) but not between cultural affiliation and alcohol use. Racial discrimination and cultural affiliation were significantly positively correlated in Study 1 (r = 0.18, p < 0.001), but not in Study 2. Across both studies, the interactions between racial discrimination and cultural affiliation significantly predicted alcohol use in unadjusted models (Study 1: b = 0.70, SE = 0.32, p = 0.033, 95% CI [0.06, 1.33]; Study 2: b = 0.01, SE = 0.01, p = 0.041, 95% CI [0.001, 0.03]), such that the association between racial discrimination and alcohol use was stronger for adolescents reporting high (vs. low) levels of cultural affiliation. In adjusted models controlling for age and sex, the interaction between racial discrimination and cultural affiliation remained significant in Study 2 (b = 0.01, SE = 0.01, p = 0.0496, 95% CI [0.00002, 0.03]) but was no longer significant in Study 1.

Conclusions

Findings speak to the need to reduce racial discrimination against NAI youth and to consider youths' different needs based on level of cultural affiliation to reduce subsequent alcohol consumption.
Asset redeployability and CEO inside debt
Authors: Bhabra Gurmeet S. , Hossain Ashrafee T.
Published: April 2023

Using a large sample of US firms for the period 2006–2015, we investigate the relationship between asset redeployability (AR) and a Chief Executive Officer's (CEO) inside debt holdings (CID) (pension benefits and deferred compensation). We find a positive association between AR and CID. In addition, we also find that this relationship is stronger in firms that are more financially constrained and during times of economic uncertainty. Collectively, these findings suggest that asset market frictions captured by AR are better determinants of liquidation value than asset tangibility. Our results are robust to an array of sensitivity/robustness tests and endogeneity concerns.