bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Societal impact of Brand Public Relations on gender equality: evidence for a mediation-type mechanism
Authors: Chmiel Michal
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the project was to identify a mechanism of causal relationship between Brand Public Relations (BPR) and societal change in the perception of women gender roles.

Design/methodology/approach

Experimental evidence was obtained in three countries (N = 378) to examine the mechanism of societal impact of BPR. Effects of spillover of evaluations between two sub-brands of a house of brands company, caused by positive publicity about communication co-created by Public Relations (PR), were analysed.

Findings

Findings supported the existence of a positive spillover of evaluations. A mechanism of the societal impact of PR was also captured: an indirect effect of news stories about a non-objectifying portrayal of women in the male reference brand on the typicality of a non-stereotypical women role in society was demonstrated.

Research limitations/implications

Experiments were conducted over a period of three years, during which publics perception of brands' communication about gender portrayal might have changed.

Practical implications

The paper argues for greater recognition of brand public relations professionals as co-creators of promotional brand communication. It gives evidence that one of the unique competencies of BPR is insight into publics and predicting long-term consequences of brand communication.

Social implications

The findings of the research project suggest a mediated nature of influence of BPR on the perception of typicality of gender (women) roles in society. PR communicators should learn what areas of practice of PR require specific skills for the function of PR to develop the new competence.

Originality/value

This paper is the first one that aimed at establishing a common terminological framework of the societal impact of public relations.
The role of governance in mitigating an epidemic disease: evidence from HIV prevalence in 45 Sub-Saharan African countries, 1996–2019
Authors: Lee Moonsoo , Nam Yunmin
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study proposed a theoretical framework to illustrate how governance can be instrumental in preventing the proliferation of HIV. It decomposed governance into six multidimensional facets and empirically examined their effects on HIV prevalence.

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilized panel data from 45 sub-Saharan African countries from 1996 to 2019. HIV prevalence, the dependent variable, was estimated based on the number of adults aged 15–49 years infected with HIV, irrespective of the progression to AIDS symptoms. The independent variables included governance and its six dimensions: voice and accountability, political stability, government effectiveness, regulatory quality, rule of law, and control of corruption. The analysis incorporated the random and fixed effects models while controlling for economic development, economic inequality, foreign aid, sanitation, and population.

Findings

The findings revealed a significant association between good governance and lower HIV prevalence. Improved governance quality in sub-Saharan African countries has led to a reduction in HIV prevalence among adults. Specifically, governance dimensions, such as voice and accountability, political stability, rule of law, and control of corruption, contributed to reducing HIV prevalence. Conversely, government effectiveness and regulatory quality did not show significant impacts on HIV prevalence.

Originality/value

This study underscores the significant role of good governance in effectively curbing the spread of epidemic diseases, highlighting its importance in controlling HIV in sub-Saharan African countries.
Switching to green vehicles for last-mile delivery: why perceived green product knowledge, consumption values and environmental concern matter
Authors: Le Xuan Cu
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study investigated the intention of carriers to switch to green vehicles in last-mile delivery (GVLDs) in an emerging market.

Design/methodology/approach

A research model was developed based on the association between consumption value theory (CVT), perceived GVLD knowledge and environmental concern. An online survey was administered to carriers who use conventional vehicles for last-mile delivery. This study examined the model using structural equation modeling.

Findings

Results indicate that environmental concern and attitudes toward adopting GVLDs are significantly cultivated through consumption value. Specifically, epistemic value was the most significant in promoting environmental awareness, while social value was paramount in fostering attitudes toward GVLDs. Furthermore, perceived GVLD knowledge motivated consumption value. Similarly, environmental concern positively impacted attitudes toward adopting GVLDs. Finally, environmental concerns and attitudes induced carriers’ intention to switch to GVLDs.

Practical implications

The findings can help policymakers, manufacturers and logistics providers understand carriers’ decisions of shifting to GVLDs from a perspective of perceived consumption value, green product knowledge and environmental preservation while discussing practical recommendations for promoting the switch to GVLDs.

Originality/value

This study is an early endeavor that elucidates the switching behavior toward adopting GVLDs. It emphasizes incorporating perceived GVLD knowledge and environmental concern into CVT in the context of a developing country. This study enriches the understanding of how to promote environmental awareness and attitudes toward adopting GVLDs.
The spillover effect of Chinese sportswear brands' relationship quality: a perspective of Confucian yuanfen culture
Authors: Yang Ruichen , Song Hemin
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Chinese consumers' brand preferences are shifting from foreign sportswear brands to domestic ones. This indicates an increasingly strong relationship between Chinese consumers and domestic sportswear brands. The purpose of this study is to explore the spillover effect of Chinese domestic sportswear brands’ relationship quality to uncover the psychological mechanisms driving this preference shift.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a brand relationship quality scale based on Chinese Confucian yuanfen culture, considering it as a second-order reflective-formative construct. The survey generated 326 valid responses online. Due to the presence of second-order reflective-formative construct in the variables, SmartPLS 4.0 was used for hypothesis testing.

Findings

Interaction belief, intimate interaction and happiness as formative dimensions of Confucian yuanfen brand relationship quality are validated, while emotional expression and tolerance are not. The Confucian yuanfen brand relationship quality has a spillover effect on product origin image and domestic sportswear brand preference. Product origin image has a mediating role between Confucian yuanfen brand relationship quality and domestic sportswear brand preference. However, consumer xenocentrism does not moderate the spillover effect of Confucian yuanfen brand relationship quality on domestic sportswear brand preference.

Originality/value

This study tests brand relationship quality from Confucian yuanfen perspective as a second-order reflective-formative construct. It contributes to understanding how Chinese consumers perceive their relationships with domestic sportswear brands. The results advance the current body of knowledge on brand relationship quality and spillover effect in sports marketing, indicating that Chinese sportswear brands can explore the possibility of co-opetition to achieve mutual benefits.
An automatic robot for ultrasonic partial discharge detection of gas-insulated switchgear
Authors: Yang Run , Li Jingru , Zhu Taiyun , Yang Wei , Hu Di , Dong Erbao
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) stands as a pivotal component in power systems, susceptible to partial discharge occurrences. Nevertheless, manual inspection proves labor-intensive, exhibits a low defect detection rate. Conventional inspection robots face limitations, unable to perform live line measurements or adapt effectively to diverse environmental conditions. This paper aims to introduce a novel solution: the GIS ultrasonic partial discharge detection robot (GBOT), designed to assume the role of substation personnel in inspection tasks.

Design/methodology/approach

GBOT is a mobile manipulator system divided into three subsystems: autonomous location and navigation, vision-guided and force-controlled manipulator and data detection and analysis. These subsystems collaborate, incorporating simultaneous localization and mapping, path planning, target recognition and signal processing, admittance control. This paper also introduces a path planning method designed to adapt to the substation environment. In addition, a flexible end effector is designed for full contact between the probe and the device.

Findings

The robot fulfills the requirements for substation GIS inspections. It can conduct efficient and low-cost path planning with narrow passages in the constructed substation map, realizes a sufficiently stable detection contact and perform high defect detection rate.

Practical implications

The robot mitigates the labor intensity of grid maintenance personnel, enhances inspection efficiency and safety and advances the intelligence and digitization of power equipment maintenance and monitoring. This research also provides valuable insights for the broader application of mobile manipulators in diverse fields.

Originality/value

The robot is a mobile manipulator system used in GIS detection, offering a viable alternative to grid personnel for equipment inspections. Comparing with the previous robotic systems, this system can work in live electrical detection, demonstrating robust environmental adaptability and superior efficiency.
Adaptive variable impedance force/position hybrid control for large surface polishing
Authors: Zhu Zhixu , Zhang Hualiang , Liu Guanghui , Zhang Dongyang
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a hybrid force/position controller based on the adaptive variable impedance.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the working space is divided into a force control subspace and a position subspace, the force control subspace adopts the position impedance control strategy. At the same time, the contact force model between the robot and the surface is analyzed in this space. Second, based on the traditional position impedance, the model reference adaptive control is introduced to provide an accurate reference position for the impedance controller. Then, the BP neural network is used to adjust the impedance parameters online.

Findings

The experimental results show that compared with the traditional PI control method, the proposed method has a higher flexibility, the dynamic response accommodation time is reduced by 7.688 s and the steady-state error is reduced by 30.531%. The overshoot of the contact force between the end of robot and the workpiece is reduced by 34.325% comparing with the fixed impedance control method.

Practical implications

The proposed control method compares with a hybrid force/position based on PI control method and a position fixed impedance control method by simulation and experiment.

Originality/value

The adaptive variable impedance control method improves accuracy of force tracking and solves the problem of the large surfaces with robot grinding often over-polished at the protrusion and under-polished at the concave.
Examining ChatGPT adoption among educators in higher educational institutions using extended UTAUT model
Authors: Bhat Mohd. Abass , Tiwari Chandan Kumar , Bhaskar Preeti , Khan Shagufta Tariq
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) model, this study aims to explore the factors influencing educators’ acceptance and utilization of chat generative pretrained transformer (ChatGPT) in the context of higher educational institutions. This study additionally examines the moderating influence of trust on the association between intention and adoption of ChatGPT.

Design/methodology/approach

A structured questionnaire was disseminated to 1,214 educators following the purposive sampling method. The hypothesized relationships between the extended UTAUT model constructs and ChatGPT adoption were examined using structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results of this study indicate positive impact of ChatGPT adoption and its use behavior (UB) among educators. Performance expectancy, effort expectancy, hedonic motivation, facilitating conditions and habit have a positive impact on behavior intention to use this tool among educators in higher education institutions, However, the educators intend to use ChatGPT in a personal capacity and are negatively influenced by the social groups. Moreover, behavior intention to adopt ChatGPT has a larger effect on the UB due to the higher involvement of trust.

Practical implications

This research adds to the literature on technology adoption by emphasizing the significance of trust in the adoption of emerging technologies, such as big language models. This study’s findings have implications for ChatGPT technology developers, legislators and academics considering the implementation of ChatGPT for teaching and research.

Originality/value

This research investigates ChatGPT adoption among higher education educators using the UTAUT model. It emphasizes the role of trust in adoption, highlights key adoption factors and reveals a paradox: educators are personally inclined to use ChatGPT but hesitant due to negative social influence. This study's novelty lies in its focus on trust and its implications for developers, legislators and educators, offering valuable insights for integrating ChatGPT in education.
How the mechanism of recognition and its effects on well-being at work can shape an inclusive climate
Authors: Grouille Romuald , Desgourdes Clément , Leroy Daniel
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the relationships between recognition, inclusion, and well-being at work. Inclusion involves integrating individuals within a group while recognizing their unique skills and need for belonging. Recognition and inclusion are sources of well-being at work.

Design/methodology/approach

We used a qualitative methodology based on a structural approach to investigate the social representations of 1,611 employees of a public organization located in the Centre-Val de Loire region of France.

Findings

Our results suggest that recognition is a central mechanism of inclusion, primarily manifested through satisfaction of the individual’s need to belong. We conclude with a proposed heuristic schema of the connections between the constructs studied.

Research limitations/implications

This paper proposes a new perspective to the work of Shore et al. (2018) by addressing the knowledge gap in the literature concerning the role of recognition in determining an inclusive climate and optimizing well-being at work. This is done using qualitative methodology, drawing on the Dazibao framework of data collection.

Originality/value

Bringing a new perspective to the work of Shore et al. (2018) by helping to fill the knowledge gap relating to the place of recognition in determining an inclusive climate and well-being at work. It does so through a qualitative methodology based on the Dazibao framework of data collection.
The brand-building process of B2B high-tech startups in an omni-digital environment
Authors: Olivieri Mirko , Hu Lala
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Through the theoretical lens of social practice theory, the aim of this research is to investigate how business-to-business (B2B) high-tech startups build their brands in an omni-digital environment, particularly by focusing on the most important digital touchpoints implemented to interact with stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative analysis was performed by conducting 36 semi-structured interviews with key informants operating in B2B high-tech startups, including founders, CEOs, managing directors, marketing managers and other actors from this sector.

Findings

The results reveal the enablers, inhibitors and specific objectives of startups in their brand-building processes across digital touchpoints in an omni-digital environment.

Originality/value

This study offers new theoretical insights into new ventures’ brand management strategies through the development of a theoretical framework in which the enablers, inhibitors and specific objectives of the brand-building process of startups are identified. Although the recent literature has addressed the topic of startup brand building, this is the first study, to the authors’ knowledge, focused on the brand-building process of B2B high-tech startups in an omni-digital environment.
Paradoxical founders’ identity and its impact on social venture performance
Authors: Moura-Romero Claudia , Rojas-Córdova Carolina , Pertuze Julio A.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study explores the structure of founders’ hybrid personal identities and their relationship to social venture performance. The authors hypothesize that founders experience the tension between the social and commercial goals of their venture as a paradox rooted in their personal values.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors surveyed 112 social enterprise founders in Chile and used structural equation modeling to test hypotheses about the relationship between self-transcendent values (i.e. promotion of others’ welfare and care for nature) and self-enhancement values (i.e. pursuing own interests and power over others) on a multidimensional scale of social venture performance.

Findings

Self-transcendence and self-enhancement are distinct yet interrelated values that coexist within social venture founders (i.e. they constitute a paradox). Self-transcendence values negatively moderate the positive relationship between self-enhancement values and social venture performance.

Practical implications

Mere benevolence is insufficient for effective social venturing; success depends on the founder’s self-enhancement values or their “drive” to succeed. Founder values can thus inform organizational design choices (e.g. tasks, team composition, structures and processes) and guide public and private investment decisions.

Originality/value

This research empirically assesses the structure of hybrid personal identities, uncovering how the concurrent action of self-transcendence and self-enhancement values influences social venture performance. The authors challenge the belief that balancing social and commercial goals benefits social venture performance. Best-performing ventures are those whose founder’s exhibit high self-enhancement and low self-transcendence values.
Leveraging plant functional traits in the design of nature‐based solutions: A research agenda
Authors: Ramachandran Advyth , Dee Laura , Hayden Meghan , Suding Katharine
Published: July 2024

Nature‐based solutions (NbS) involve interventions that modify ecosystems to enhance multiple ecosystem services (ES). Yet, despite our increasing knowledge of the key role that functional traits play in determining ES, certain types of NbS often do not consider a functional trait perspective.

A reason for this lack of translation may be the range of NbS approaches and levels of knowledge of trait–ES relationships. Functional traits may be most useful as targets for NbS design when knowledge on trait–ES mapping is established and the NbS involves a medium or high level of management intervention.

A richer understanding of causality in trait–ES and trait–resilience linkages, and context dependency in those linkages, is needed to broaden the application of functional traits in NbS. An improved understanding of trait linkages with cultural ES and how traits interact with stakeholder values to shape NbS uptake would also improve application.

Synthesis: A greater consideration of functional traits will increase the efficacy of NbS projects, and could be accelerated by tackling gaps in knowledge about functional traits. Here, we envision a research agenda that both advances NbS design and leverages the varied objectives of NbS to robustly test our knowledge about functional traits.
The underground world of plant disease: Rhizosphere dysbiosis reduces above‐ground plant resistance to bacterial leaf spot and alters plant transcriptome
Authors: Ketehouli Toi , Pasche Josephine , Buttrós Victor Hugo , Goss Erica M. , Martins Samuel J.
Published: July 2024

Just as the human gut microbiome is colonized by a variety of microbes, so too is the rhizosphere of plants. An imbalance in this microbial community, known as dysbiosis, can have a negative impact on plant health. This study sought to explore the effect of rhizosphere dysbiosis on the health of tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum L.), using them and the foliar bacterial spot pathogen Xanthomonas perforans as model organisms. The rhizospheres of 3‐week‐old tomato plants were treated with either streptomycin or water as a control, and then spray‐inoculated with X. perforans after 24 h. Half of the plants that were treated with both streptomycin and X. perforans received soil microbiome transplants from uninfected plant donors 48 h after the streptomycin was applied. The plants treated with streptomycin showed a 26% increase in disease severity compared to those that did not receive the antibiotic. However, the plants that received the soil microbiome transplant exhibited an intermediate level of disease severity. The antibiotic‐treated plants demonstrated a reduced abundance of rhizobacterial taxa such as Cyanobacteria from the genus Cylindrospermum. They also showed a down‐regulation of genes related to plant primary and secondary metabolism, and an up‐regulation of plant defence genes associated with induced systemic resistance. This study highlights the vital role that beneficial rhizosphere microbes play in disease resistance, even against foliar pathogens.
A step towards sustainable environment in OECD countries: Do natural resource depletion, resource tax, institutional quality, and green innovation matter?
Authors: Kılıçaslan Harun , Aydin Mucahit , Inal Veysel , Teksan Enes , Torusdag Mustafa
Published: July 2024

Protecting and improving environmental quality is essential for sustainable development. This study considers natural resource depletion, resource tax, institutional quality, and green innovation, which are likely to impact environmental quality. These issues are addressed by Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 7, 12, and 18. The study aims to uncover the influence of the variables we have considered on environmental quality in a sample of 18 Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development (OECD) countries from 1994 to 2020. Before panel data analysis, we conducted preliminary tests to determine the most suitable techniques. The econometric procedure comprises four stages: unit root analysis, cointegration analysis, estimation of long‐run coefficients using two different methods, and panel causality analysis. The empirical findings suggest that resource tax and green energy innovation positively impact environmental quality for the panel in the long run. Results based on the country show that institutional quality has a negative impact on environmental quality in Portugal but a positive impact in Luxembourg. Although resource taxes positively impact environmental quality in Portugal, they harm Luxembourg. Lastly, natural resource depletion negatively impacts environmental quality in Luxembourg. There are no statistically significant results for other countries. The study concludes with policy recommendations.
Male‐derived phospholipase A2 enhances WD46 expression and increases fertility in Ophraella communa
Authors: Zhang Yan , Zhang Qinglu , Ma Chao , Chen Guangmei , Yue Yang , Gao Xuyuan , Yang Jingfang , Wan Fanghao , Zhou Zhongshi
Published: July 2024

Successful bisexual reproduction requires interactions between males and females. Male‐derived seminal fluid proteins (SFPs) transferred to females during mating profoundly affect females from pre‐ to post‐mating, and the subsequent shift in female physiology enhances their fertility. SFPs have important evolutionary implications for the fitness of many insects. However, little is known about how females respond to male SFPs. In this study, we identified a male‐derived SFP‐phospholipase A2 (PLA2) in Ophraella communa. PLA2 is a vital enzyme in eicosanoid biosynthesis; however, it has not been identified as an insect SFP. We found that OcPLA2 is specifically expressed in males, especially in the male accessory glands (MAGs); it is transferred to the female during mating and functions as an SFP to enhance fertility. The expression of a female‐derived gene encoding the WD repeat‐containing protein 46 (WD46) was upregulated when OcPLA2 entered the female reproductive tract, and this contributed to female egg production by increasing triacylglycerol lipase (TGL) gene expression and the triglyceride (TG) content. This is the first study to identify PLA2 as an SFP in insects. Our findings also shed light on the regulatory role of OcPLA2 in beetle reproduction; the expression of OcPLA2 is initially correlated with female WD46 expression and later with the decline in TGL gene expression and the TG content. This represents a unique mechanism of reproductive regulation by an SFP.
Innovative strategies in yacon drying: Ethanol pretreatment and intermittent microwave drying
Authors: Silveira Paula Giarolla , Corrêa Jefferson Luiz Gomes , Silva Carlos Ramon de Paula , Macedo Leandro Levate , Gonçalves William Silva , Júnior Irineu Petri
Published: July 2024

The yacon roots are rich in fructooligosaccharides (FOS) and highly perishable. Drying is crucial for food quality and extending shelf life. However, preserving thermosensitive compounds, such as FOS, poses a challenge in conventional drying methods. In this regard, microwave drying and ethanol pretreatment (ET) have emerged as promising solutions for maintaining nutrients and reducing drying time (DT). The objective of this study was to assess how ET and sample temperature affect quality and process parameters during intermittent microwave drying of yacon. Drying at 52°C treated with ethanol was the one that stood out for presenting the highest fructan retention (64.1%), low DT, lower energy consumption (EC) (364.00 ± 5.03 kWh kg water−1), higher retention of antioxidant capacity (73.9%) and total phenolic content (77.5%), and slight variation in color parameters. Therefore, microwave drying with a controlled temperature of yacon pretreated with ethanol effectively reduces DT and EC by maintaining quality parameters.
The Geology, Fluid Inclusions, and O‐S Isotopes of the Mibei Gold Deposit, Hunan Province, Southern China
Authors: XUE Wenhao , LIANG Yayun , LI Xiaofeng , LI Mingyi , XIE Wenbo , PENG Xue , XIA Rui , HE Hongsheng , XIAO Jincheng
Published: July 2024

The Mibei gold deposit, located in the southwestern part of the Xuefengshan uplift zone, the middle section of the Jiangnan orogenic belt in southern China, has estimated gold resources of approximately seven tons. This deposit is primarily a quartz vein‐type gold deposit, with ore bodies occurring mainly within Neoproterozoic metasediments. The main metallic minerals in the ore are pyrite, chalcopyrite, and arsenopyrite. In this study, the petrography and microthermometry of ore‐forming fluid inclusions, oxygen isotopes of gold‐bearing quartz, and sulfur isotopes of gold‐bearing sulfides and arsenopyrite were analyzed. Three types of fluid inclusions were identified: type Ia three‐phase inclusions comprising vapor and two phases of liquids (VCO2 + LCO2 + LH2O), type Ib two‐phase liquids (LCO2 + LH2O), type II two‐phase vapor‐rich inclusions (V/V + L > 50%), and type III pure liquid inclusions. Type I inclusions were heated uniformly to the liquid phase, type II inclusions were heated uniformly to the gas phase, and type III inclusions were heated without change. In general, the temperature range of homogenization to liquid phase of fluid inclusions in the Mibei gold deposit is 204–227°C. The salinity of the inclusion ranges from 4.6 to 12.2 wt% NaCl equiv. The δ18OSMOW of gold‐bearing quartz varies from 16.9‰ to 17.5‰. The δ18OH2O of gold‐bearing quartz are varied from 6.5‰ to 7.5‰. The δ34S values of gold‐bearing pyrite range from 1.7‰ to 6.8‰. The δ34S values of gold‐bearing arsenopyrite range from 5.6‰ to 5.9‰. The δ34S values of pyrite from wall rocks slate range from 6.4‰ to 11.6‰. This evidence implies that the ore‐forming fluids of the Mibei gold deposit originated from magmatic‐hydrothermal processes, mixing with minor S from the surrounding metasediments. Combined with the evolution of the Jiangnan orogenic belt, due to the magmatic and tectonic activities of the Xuefengshan uplift during the Caledonian period, the fault seal mechanism controlled the ore‐forming process. Overall, the Mibei gold deposit is more akin to a magmatic‐hydrothermal gold deposit.
Rapid benefits in older age from transition to whole food diet regardless of protein source or fat to carbohydrate ratio: Arandomised control trial
Authors: Ribeiro Rosilene V. , Senior Alistair M. , Simpson Stephen J. , Tan Jian , Raubenheimer David , Le Couteur David , Macia Laurence , Holmes Andrew , Eberhard Joerg , O'Sullivan John , Koay Yen Chin , Kanjrawi Alisar , Yang Jean , Kim Taiyun , Gosby Alison
Published: July 2024

Plant‐based diets reduces the risk of chronic conditions. The interaction between protein source and other macronutrients—fat (F) and carbohydrate (C)—has yet to be investigated. The aim was to assess the main and interactive effects of protein‐source (plant vs. animal) and F:C (high or low) and the transition from an Australian diet to a whole food diet on various health markers in older individuals. This single‐blinded, parallel, randomised experimental trial used a 2 × 2 factorial design to compare pro‐vegetarian (70:30 plant to animal) versus omnivorous (50:50 plant to animal) diets at 14% protein and varying fat‐to‐carbohydrate ratios (high fat ~40% vs. low fat ~30%) over 4 weeks. Study foods were provided, alcohol consumption was discouraged, and dietary intake was determined through food records. Analysis included both RCT and observational data. Changes in appetite, palatability of diets, and dietary intake were assessed. Body composition, muscle strength, function, gut microbiome, and cardiometabolic health parameters were measured. Data from 113 (of the 128 randomised) individuals aged 65–75 years were analysed. Pro‐vegetarian diets reduced diastolic blood pressure, total cholesterol and glucose levels. Moreover, the overall sample exhibited increased short‐chain fatty acids and FGF21 levels, as well as improvements in body composition, function, and cardio‐metabolic parameters irrespective of dietary treatment. Transitioning to a diet rich in fruit, vegetables, fibre, and moderate protein was associated with improved health markers in older age, with added benefits from pro‐vegetarian diets. Further research on long‐term effects is needed.
Government procurement and zombie firms' productivity: Evidence from China
Authors: Yu Xiaoyue , Yu Su , Xiao Fulong , Wang Zhuquan
Published: July 2024

The growing number of zombie firms has severely hampered economic growth in most countries, especially after the COVID‐19 pandemic when zombie firms increased dramatically. Improving the productivity of zombie firms has become a major concern around the world. This paper, using Chinese government procurement contract data and listed firm data, empirically investigates the relationship between government procurement and zombie firms' productivity. The research findings indicate that government procurement can improve zombie firms' productivity and narrow the production efficiency gap with non‐zombie firms. This impact is more pronounced for local and low‐level government clients. Our research further investigates the channels through which government procurement improves zombie firms' productivity. The results demonstrate that government procurement promotes productivity by enhancing technological innovation, improving sales performance, and increasing market supervision. Additionally, this study identifies that government procurement exhibits a spillover effect, which enhances the productivity of non‐zombie firms within the same city. These findings contribute significantly to bridging the existing knowledge gap regarding the impact of government procurement on the productivity of zombie firms. Furthermore, the results offer innovative strategies for policy makers to address the challenges posed by zombie firms.
Mapping human‐carnivore coexistence: approaches to integrating anthropogenic influences on carnivore distribution and connectivity modelling
Authors: Titus K. L. , Jachowski D. S.
Published: July 2024

Interdisciplinary approaches to modelling human‐wildlife coexistence have gained much attention in recent years, especially regarding carnivores which are subject to historical human persecution and dynamic attitudes and cultural values. Accordingly, there have been many attempts to gain insights into anthropogenic influences on carnivores through the use of species distribution models and connectivity analyses. However, there have been no global reviews on how anthropogenic influences are incorporated into such models. We conducted a literature review of global terrestrial carnivore species distribution and connectivity studies from 1995 to 2021 to evaluate the type of measure, frequency of use and spatial scale of the predictor variables used to describe environmental conditions and assess anthropogenic influences in such predictive models. We evaluated 2495 variables from 263 carnivore distribution and connectivity studies and found that variables used to describe environmental conditions are four times more commonly used than those used to assess anthropogenic influences on carnivores. However, the number of anthropogenic covariates used in carnivore distribution and connectivity studies has increased by 4.7% per year, and the spatial resolution of those covariates has simultaneously decreased by 7.6% per year. We observed that anthropogenic covariates were used more in studies occurring in the global north and for larger‐bodied carnivores (>15 kg), suggesting the need for better integration of anthropogenic metrics into predictive models more widely and for smaller‐bodied carnivores. To help guide and advance the further use of sociological data into predictive spatial models for carnivores, we propose a framework that emphasizes integration of sociological methodologies and data sources ranging from exploratory expert elicitation to targeted focus group interviews at multiple phases in the conservation planning process.
Consumption of hyaena faeces and artificial mineral licks by leopard tortoises (Stigmochelys pardalis) in a low‐nutrient environment
Authors: Abraham Andrew J. , Louw Mattheus L. H. , van Dijk Laurene M. , Webster Andrea B.
Published: July 2024

Hyaena faeces and mineral licks represent highly concentrated nutrient resources for leopard tortoises (Stigmochelys pardalis) living in nutrient‐poor environments. Here, we provide direct evidence for the consumption of hyaena faeces and artificial mineral licks by leopard tortoises in the Kalahari Desert. Tortoises aggregated at hyaena latrines and lick sites during the wet season between 10 AM and 6 PM in groups of 1–5 individuals. Where both salt and mineral licks were available, tortoises displayed a preference for salt. We suggest that calcium, phosphorus and sodium deficits are likely driving coprophagy and geophagy behaviours by tortoises in the Kalahari.
The Homburg‐Adelaide toric IOL nomogram: How to predict corneal power vectors from preoperative IOLMaster 700 keratometry and total corneal power in toric IOL implantation
Authors: Langenbucher Achim , Szentmáry Nóra , Wendelstein Jascha , Cayless Alan , Hoffmann Peter , Goggin Michael
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to compare the reconstructed corneal power (RCP) by working backwards from the post‐implantation spectacle refraction and toric intraocular lens power and to develop the models for mapping preoperative keratometry and total corneal power to RCP.

Methods

Retrospective single‐centre study involving 442 eyes treated with a monofocal and trifocal toric IOL (Zeiss TORBI and LISA). Keratometry and total corneal power were measured preoperatively and postoperatively using IOLMaster 700. Feedforward neural network and multilinear regression models were derived to map keratometry and total corneal power vector components (equivalent power EQ and astigmatism components C0 and C45) to the respective RCP components.

Results

Mean preoperative/postoperative C0 for keratometry and total corneal power was −0.14/−0.08 dioptres and −0.30/−0.24 dioptres. All mean C45 components ranged between −0.11 and −0.20 dioptres. With crossvalidation, the neural network and regression models showed comparable results on the test data with a mean squared prediction error of 0.20/0.18 and 0.22/0.22 dioptres2 and on the training data the neural network models outperformed the regression models with 0.11/0.12 and 0.22/0.22 dioptres2 for predicting RCP from preoperative keratometry/total corneal power.

Conclusions

Based on our dataset, both the feedforward neural network and multilinear regression models showed good precision in predicting the power vector components of RCP from preoperative keratometry or total corneal power. With a similar performance in crossvalidation and a simple implementation in consumer software, we recommend implementation of regression models in clinical practice.
A survey investigating owner perceptions and management of firework‐associated fear in dogs in the Greater Sydney area
Authors: Mann AS , Hall E , McGowan C , Quain A
Published: July 2024

Objective

To investigate the prevalence of firework‐associated fear in dogs in Sydney, owner perception of their dog's response to fireworks, perceived efficacy of interventions to manage fearful behaviours and the frequency of dog owners seeking professional advice for these behaviours.

Methods

Dog owners in the Greater Sydney area were invited to complete an anonymous online survey.

Results

From 387 valid responses, 44.4% (171 of 385) reported their dogs were fearful of fireworks. The most common fear‐related behaviour was seeking an owner or caretaker (120 of 161, 74.5%). Most owners responded by bringing their dog inside or trying to comfort or reassure their dog. Only 22.5% of owners sought professional advice for their dog's fear of fireworks, but of these, 65.5% considered that advice to be effective. Source and breed group were significantly associated with fear of fireworks (P = 0.011, P = 0.036 respectively). Fear of fireworks was also significantly associated with fear of thunder (P < 0.0001), gunshots (P < 0.0001) and vehicles (P = 0.0009).

Conclusion

Fear of fireworks and other loud noises negatively impacts canine welfare, yet only a small percentage of owners sought professional advice. There is scope for veterinarians to educate owners and raise awareness about the identification and management of noise‐associated fear and reduce the risk of escalation of fearful behaviours.
Register‐based study on prescription renewal without the prescriber meeting the patient
Authors: Rönngård‐Jalkanen Agnese , Aarnio Emma , Saastamoinen Leena , Timonen Johanna
Published: July 2024

Renewing prescriptions is important for the continuity of pharmacotherapy. However, renewing without the prescriber meeting the patient might lead to insufficient pharmacotherapy monitoring. This study investigated the prevalence of renewed prescriptions, prescriptions renewed without the prescriber meeting the patient and the factors associated with renewals made without meeting the patient. This register‐based study employed data on electronic prescriptions and health care contacts from Finnish registers. Prescriptions were classified as renewed if there was a renewal request or a previous prescription for the same ATC code. Prescriptions were considered as being renewed without meeting the patient if there was no patient contact on the renewal date. Descriptive and logistic generalized estimating equation analyses were conducted. The random sample of prescriptions (10%) from the year 2019 amounted to 2 804 048. Of these, 41.9% were original, 35.4% were renewals without meeting the patient and 22.7% were renewed with meeting the patient. Characteristics such as male sex, age 35–54 years, prescription for cardiovascular system preparations and the prescription being renewed during the summer (June–August) were associated with renewals made without meeting the patient. Further research is needed on the implementation of pharmacotherapy monitoring in the case of renewals without the prescriber meeting the patient.
Public discourse narratives: from ‘Secret Aid Worker’ discontent to shifting power in humanitarian systems
Authors: Strohmeier Hannah , Karunakara Unni , Panter‐Brick Catherine
Published: July 2024

Public discourse is rich in meaning, reflecting consensus, dissent, and change. Yet, very little public discourse on the humanitarian sector has been authored by aid workers themselves. We conducted a thematic analysis of the ‘Secret Aid Worker’ (SAW) series, published in The Guardian newspaper between 2015 and 2018, the only corpus of data on humanitarian life experiences publicly accessible through mainstream media. Our research questions were twofold: how did authors frame their work and appraise humanitarian structures?; and how did they reflect and amplify humanitarian issues of the time? The main themes included: personal challenges of humanitarian life; characterisation of stakeholders; and systemic issues within the humanitarian sector. The SAW narratives reveal a powerful discourse of discontent. They planted seeds of change regarding shifting power, coloniality and racism, sexual abuse, and duty of care. We argue that such public discourse has symbolic power, calling for greater accountability, equity, and justice in remaking the future of the humanitarian sector.
Footwear fit as a causal factor in diabetes‐related foot ulceration: A systematic review
Authors: Jones Petra J. , Armstrong David G. , Frykberg Robert , Davies Melanie , Rowlands Alex V.
Published: July 2024

Aims

Incorrectly fitting footwear (IFF) poses a risk of trauma to at‐risk feet with diabetes. The aim of this systematic review was to summarise and assess the evidence that IFF is a statistically significant cause of ulceration.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar for English‐language peer‐reviewed studies reporting the number or percentage of people with diabetes‐related foot ulceration (DFU) attributed to wearing IFF and included a physical examination of the footwear worn. Two independent reviewers assessed the risk of bias using the Newcastle–Ottawa scale.

Results

4318 results were retrieved excluding duplicates with 45 studies shortlisted. Ten studies met the inclusion criteria with most rated as fair (n = 6) or good (n = 3). There is some evidence that DFU is significantly associated with IFF, but this is limited: only 3 of 10 included studies found a statistically significant percentage of those with DFU were wearing IFF or inappropriate footwear which included fastening, material, type or fit (15.0%–93.3%). Risk of bias in these three studies ranged from ‘fair’ to ‘poor’. IFF definitions were often unreported or heterogeneous. Only one study reported IFF‐related ulcer sites: 70% were at plantar hallux/toes and 10% at plantar metatarsal heads.

Conclusions

There is some evidence that IFF is a cause of DFU, but further research is needed, which defines IFF, and methodically records footwear assessment, ulcer location and physical activity. Researchers need to uncover why IFF is worn and if this is due to economic factors, a need for footwear education or other reasons.
Favoritism under multiple sources of social pressure
Authors: Békés Gábor , Borza Endre , Fleck Márton
Published: July 2024

When social pressure leads to favoritism, policies might aim to reduce the bias by affecting its source. This paper shows that multiple sources may be present and telling them apart is important. We build a novel and granular dataset on European football games and revisit the view that supporting crowds make referees help the host team. We find this bias to remain unchanged even in stadiums closed due to Covid‐19. Instead, influential host organizations emerge as the source of social pressure. This has an adverse effect on maintaining the ranking of influential teams and hindering the progress of smaller teams.
Environmental gradients mediate dispersal evolution during biological invasions
Authors: Benning John W. , Clark Eliza I. , Hufbauer Ruth A. , Weiss‐Lehman Christopher
Published: July 2024

Rapid evolution of increased dispersal at the edge of a range expansion can accelerate invasions. However, populations expanding across environmental gradients often face challenging environments that reduce fitness of dispersing individuals. We used an eco‐evolutionary model to explore how environmental gradients influence dispersal evolution and, in turn, modulate the speed and predictability of invasion. Environmental gradients opposed evolution of increased dispersal during invasion, even leading to evolution of reduced dispersal along steeper gradients. Counterintuitively, reduced dispersal could allow for faster expansion by minimizing maladaptive gene flow and facilitating adaptation. While dispersal evolution across homogenous landscapes increased both the mean and variance of expansion speed, these increases were greatly dampened by environmental gradients. We illustrate our model's potential application to prediction and management of invasions by parameterizing it with data from a recent invertebrate range expansion. Overall, we find that environmental gradients strongly modulate the effect of dispersal evolution on invasion trajectories.
NFκB dynamics‐dependent epigenetic changes modulate inflammatory gene expression and induce cellular senescence
Authors: Tabata Sho , Matsuda Keita , Soeda Shou , Nagai Kenshiro , Izumi Yoshihiro , Takahashi Masatomo , Motomura Yasutaka , Ichikawa Nagasato Ayaka , Moro Kazuyo , Bamba Takeshi , Okada Mariko
Published: July 2024

Upregulation of nuclear factor κB (NFκB) signaling is a hallmark of aging and a major cause of age‐related chronic inflammation. However, its effect on cellular senescence remains unclear. Here, we show that alteration of NFκB nuclear dynamics from oscillatory to sustained by depleting a negative feedback regulator of NFκB pathway, NFκB inhibitor alpha (IκBα), in the presence of tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) promotes cellular senescence. Sustained NFκB activity enhanced inflammatory gene expression through increased NFκB‐DNA binding and slowed the cell cycle. IκBα protein was decreased under replicative or oxidative stress in vitro. Furthermore, a decrease in IκBα protein and an increase in DNA‐NFκB binding at the transcription start sites of age‐associated genes in aged mouse hearts suggested that nuclear NFκB dynamics may play a critical role in the progression of aging. Our study suggests that nuclear NFκB dynamics‐dependent epigenetic changes regulated over time in a living system, possibly through a decrease in IκBα, enhance the expression of inflammatory genes to advance the cells to a senescent state.