bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An agent-based model to simulate the transmission dynamics of bloodborne pathogens within hospitals
Authors: Henriot Paul , El Kassas Mohammed , Anwar Wagida , Abdo Samia , Jean Kévin , Temime Laura
Published: November 2023

Bloodborne pathogens are a major public health concern as they can lead to a variety of medical conditions, including cirrhosis and cancers with significant mortality and morbidity. Three viruses are of major concern: HCV, HBV and HIV. Their transmission is mostly community-associated but the iatrogenic risk of infection is not negligible, even today. Mathematical models are widely used to describe and assess pathogens transmission, within communities and hospitals. Nevertheless, few are focusing on the transmission of pathogens through blood and even fewer on their transmission within hospital as they usually study the risk of community-associated infection in vulnerable populations such as MSM or drug users. Herein, we propose an agent-based SEI (Susceptible-Exposed-Infected) model to explore the transmission dynamics of bloodborne pathogens within hospitals. This model simulates the dynamics of patients between hospital wards, from their admission to discharge, as well as the dynamics of the devices used during at-risk invasive procedures, considering that patient contamination occurs after exposure to a contaminated device. Multiple parameters of the model, such as HCV prevalence, transition probabilities between wards or ward-specific probabilities of undergoing different invasive procedures, were informed with data collected in the University Hospital of Ain Shams in Cairo, Egypt in 2017. We explored the effect of device shortage as well as the effect of random and systematic screening with associated modification in disinfection practices on the risk of infection for patients. By modifying some parameters of the model, we then explored the case of HBV in Ethiopia. In the future, this model could be used to assess the risk of transmission of other bloodborne pathogens in other contexts.
S-acylation of NLRP3 provides a nigericin sensitive gating mechanism that controls access to the Golgi
Authors: Williams Daniel M. , Peden Andrew A.
Published: November 2023

NLRP3 is an inflammasome seeding pattern recognition receptor activated in response to multiple danger signals which perturb intracellular homeostasis. Electrostatic interactions between the NLRP3 polybasic (PB) region and negatively charged lipids on the trans-Golgi network (TGN) have been proposed to recruit NLRP3 to the TGN. In this study, we demonstrate that membrane association of NLRP3 is critically dependant on S-acylation of a highly conserved cysteine residue (Cys-130), which traps NLRP3 in a dynamic S-acylation cycle at the Golgi, and a series of hydrophobic residues preceding Cys-130 which act in conjunction with the PB region to facilitate Cys-130 dependent Golgi enrichment. Due to segregation from Golgi localised thioesterase enzymes caused by a nigericin induced breakdown in Golgi organisation and function, NLRP3 becomes immobilised on the Golgi through reduced de-acylation of its Cys-130 lipid anchor, suggesting that disruptions in Golgi homeostasis are conveyed to NLRP3 through its acylation state. Thus, our work defines a nigericin sensitive S-acylation cycle that gates access of NLRP3 to the Golgi.
Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells constitute a major route for hemoglobin clearance
Authors: Zurawska Gabriela , Sas Zuzanna , Jończy Aneta , Mahadeva Raghunandan , Slusarczyk Patryk , Chwałek Marta , Seehofer Daniel , Damm Georg , Kulecka Maria , Rumieńczyk Izabela , Moulin Morgane , Jastrzębski Kamil , Mikula Michal , Etzerodt Anders , Serwa Remigiusz , Miączyńska Marta , Rygiel Tomasz P. , Mleczko-Sanecka Katarzyna
Published: November 2023

Mild rupture of aged erythrocytes occurs physiologically in the spleen, leading to the release of hemoglobin (Hb), while pathological hemolysis characterizes several diseases. The detoxification of Hb has traditionally been attributed to the sequestration of Hb-haptoglobin complexes by macrophages. However, this process remains incompletely studied in animal models or primary cells, leaving the precise mechanisms of Hb clearance elusive. Using mice and primary liver cell cultures (murine and human), we uncovered that Hb uptake is chiefly performed by liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) and involves macropinocytosis. Consistently, mouse LSECs displayed proteomic signatures indicative of active heme catabolism, ferritin iron storage, antioxidant defense, and macropinocytic capacity. LSECs also exhibited high iron content and the expression of hepcidin-regulated iron exporter ferroportin. Using erythrocyte/Hb transfusion assays in mice, we demonstrated that while splenic macrophages excel in phagocytosis of erythrocytes, LSECs primarily scavenge Hb and Kupffer cells clear erythrocyte membranes, the spleen-borne hemolysis products delivered to the liver via the portal circulation. High-dose Hb injections resulted in transient hepatic iron retention, early LSEC-specific induction of heme-catabolizingHmox1and iron-sensingBmp6, culminating in hepcidin-mediated temporary hypoferremia. Transcriptional induction ofBmp6in mice was phenocopied by erythrocyte lysis upon phenylhydrazine or iron citrate injection, although the latter elicited a distinct LSEC transcriptional signature compared to Hb. In conclusion, we identify LSECs as key Hb scavengers, a function that establishes the spleen-to-liver axis for iron recycling and contributes to heme detoxification during hemolysis, coupled with the induction of the BMP6-hepcidin axis to restore iron homeostasis.
Algorithm for automatic detection of insulin granule exocytosis in human pancreatic β-cells
Authors: Makam Aishwarya A , Dubey Abhimanyu , Maharana Shovamayee , Gandasi Nikhil R.
Published: November 2023

Image processing and analysis are two significant areas that are highly important for interpreting enormous amounts of data obtained from microscopy-based experiments. Several image analysis tools exist for the general detection of fundamental cellular processes, but tools to detect highly distinct cellular functions are few. One such process is exocytosis, which involves the release of vesicular content out of the cell. The size of the vesicles and the inherent differences in the imaging parameters demand specific analysis platforms for detecting exocytosis. In this direction, we have developed an image-processing algorithm based on Lagrangian particle tracking. The tool was developed to ensure that there is efficient detection of punctate structures initially developed by mathematical equations, fluorescent beads and cellular images with fluorescently labelled vesicles that can exocytose. The detection of these punctate structures using the tool was compared with other existing tools, such as find maxima in ImageJ and manual detection. The tool not only met the precision of existing solutions but also expedited the process, resulting in a more time-efficient solution. During exocytosis, there is a sudden increase in the intensity of the fluorescently labelled vesicles that look like punctate structures. The algorithm precisely locates the vesicles’ coordinates and quantifies the variations in their respective intensities. Subsequently, the algorithm processes and retrieves pertinent information from large datasets surpassing that of conventional methods under our evaluation, affirming its efficacy. Furthermore, the tool exhibits adaptability for the image analysis of diverse cellular processes, requiring only minimal modifications to ensure accurate detection of exocytosis.
Crystal structure reinvestigation and spectroscopic analysis of tricadmium orthophosphate
Authors: Cherif Fatima-Zahra , Taibi Mhamed , Boukhari Ali , Assani Abderrazzak , Saadi Mohamed , El Ammari Lahcen
Published: November 2023

Single crystals of tricadmium orthophosphate, Cd3(PO4)2, have been synthesized successfully by the hydrothermal route, while its powder form was obtained by a solid-solid process. The corresponding crystal structure was determined using X-ray diffraction data in the monoclinic space group P21/n. The crystal structure consists of Cd2O8 or Cd2O10 dimers linked together by PO4 tetrahedra through sharing vertices or edges. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to investigate the morphology and to confirm the chemical composition of the synthesized powder. Infrared analysis corroborates the presence of isolated phosphate tetrahedrons in the structure. UV–Visible studies showed an absorbance peak at 289 nm and a band gap energy of 3.85 eV, as determined by the Kubelka–Munk model.
Lead-time management, information sharing and performance of the motor industry in Zimbabwe
Authors: Kanyepe James , Zizhou Brave , Alphaneta Mikel , Chifamba Neater
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study examines the moderating role of information sharing on the effect of lead-time management on the performance of firms in the Zimbabwean motor industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected using Likert-based structured questionnaires from a sample of 105 employees in Zimbabwe. In addition, Pearson Correlation, Linear Regression and Moderation Regression analysis were employed to test the relationship between study variables.

Findings

The study found that fixed lead time, preprocessing lead time, processing lead time and postprocessing lead time significantly influence the performance of firms in the motor industry. The results also demonstrate that information sharing moderates the effect of lead-time management on firm performance in the motor industry.

Practical implications

Firms in the motor industry should establish long-term relationships with their suppliers and implement effective communication channels for timely and frequent information exchange regarding production schedules, inventory levels, quality standards and potential disruptions.

Originality/value

The current study aims to contribute to the scientific discourse on lead-time management, information sharing and performance in the motor industry. Furthermore, it extends knowledge on the performance of the motor industry in the African region.
Public leaders in accelerated times: a qualitative study on their reflective practices in the Netherlands
Authors: van der Steen Barbara , van Saane Joke , van Dijk Gerda
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to phenomenologically explore the reflective practices of leaders in public organisations amidst a complex societal context in combination with rapid changes. In this article, the authors specifically explore the lived experiences of public leaders to generate new hypotheses concerning their reflective practices.

Design/methodology/approach

The phenomenological methodology consists of analysing the lived experiences of 13 public leaders, collected in an in-depth interview and written reflections.

Findings

The thick data offer new and up-to-date insights into the daily experiences of public leaders concerning their challenges, the effect of the addictive and alienating forces, their reflex to withdrawal when facing emotional incidents and the effects of their contradictory mindsets.

Practical implications

The practical implication is a critical approach towards reflective practices of public leaders. The risk is that reflectivity is approached as a socially desirable instrumental ritual. Considering the needs and desires the public leaders shared, the authors wonder: Is there a growing importance of reflective time and space – or, above all, meaningful relations and resonant moments amidst the alienation forces?

Originality/value

The phenomenological exploration offers concrete insights into the daily experience of public leaders', as opposed to the often-abstract theory. The new hypotheses provide a new starting point for further critical phenomenological research.
Effect of rail profile wear on vehicle operation performance in high-speed line
Authors: Qi Yayun , Li Shuyu , Chen Zhaowei , Wang Ruian
Published: November 2023

Purpose

With the continuous increase in the operating speed of high-speed trains, the wear and tear of rails on high-speed lines has also gradually deteriorated. At present, the phenomenon of asymmetric wear of rails in high-speed lines is relatively serious. This paper aims to analyze the effect of three typical rail profile wear on vehicle operation performance.

Design/methodology/approach

To solve this problem, by analyzing the wheel-rail contact relationship and establishing a vehicle dynamics model, the influence of worn typical rail profiles on the vehicle’s dynamic performance and carbody abnormal vibration is analyzed. Additionally, the effect of worn rail profiles on wheel wear is analyzed using a wear model.

Findings

The results showed that, compared to the standard rail profile, the three typical wear rail profiles show an increase in normal contact stress. The ride and safety indexes of the three rail profiles also increased compared with the CHN60 profile. The rail Profile 3 does not affect carbody vibration, while Profile 1 and Profile 2 can cause hunting vibrations of the carbody, with the main vibration frequencies around 7 Hz. The wheel wear depths under three typical rail profiles are 1.185 mm, 1.11 mm and 1.058 mm.

Originality/value

The effect of the measured typical rail profiles on the vehicle’s performance is analyzed, particularly in terms of abnormal vibrations and wheel wear. This analysis can provide guidance for the long-term maintenance of the rail system.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-08-2023-0270/
ChatGPT: how it can support corporate social responsibility
Authors: Zhuang Xudong , Wu Yu
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the impact of ChatGPT on the development of corporate social responsibility (CSR).

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the current applications of ChatGPT in enterprises and existing challenges in CSR, the paper analyzes how the tool promotes corporate sustainable development and what potential risks and challenges are in the practical application.

Findings

This paper finds that ChatGPT can promote the development of CSR from four aspects: to support social responsibility activities, to strengthen internal control, to promote external supervision and to convey the notion of sustainability and other corporate philosophies for enterprises.

Practical implications

This paper provides the ground for applying ChatGPT to CSR and includes the potential risks and challenges of the practical applications that enterprises can use for reference.

Social implications

ChatGPT is becoming increasingly popular and mature, but its applications and effectiveness are less mentioned in CSR. In the future, the research in this area needs to be further advanced.

Originality/value

This paper makes contributions to the link between ChatGPT and CSR. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is one of the first studies that explore the applications, impacts, challenges and opportunities of the technology in the area of social responsibility.
Development and validation of a framework for improving health and safety risk management at informal construction sites in Tanzania
Authors: Mwemezi Benson Rugalema , Kikwasi Geraldine John , Phoya Sarah
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Although there are several established frameworks for health and safety in construction, there are inadequate health and safety conditions at informal construction sites, and no framework has been designed to address this problem. The purpose of this paper is to develop a validated framework for health and safety risk management (HSRM) in informal construction sites with the aim of supporting Sustainable Development Goals 3, 8 and 11 of the 2030 Agenda, which are to ensure everyone enjoys a healthy life and to create inclusive, secure, robust and sustainable cities and human settlements, respectively.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on HSRM questionnaire survey and interviews with construction workers working on informal construction sites in Tanzania. A total of 13 health and safety specialists in construction were specifically chosen to validate the proposed framework for HSRM in informal construction to determine its applicability, efficacy and adaptation.

Findings

The validation results demonstrated that all of the suggested metrics within the framework for HSRM in informal construction scored higher than the test value, proving the framework’s feasibility

Originality/value

This research adds to the body of knowledge on the issue in a never-before-seen setting. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first empirical study in Tanzania to develop and validate a framework for HSRM in informal construction.
Assessing the resilience of the US banking sector under a macroeconomic stress testing
Authors: Lachaab Mohamed
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The increased capital requirements and the implementation of new liquidity standards under Basel III sparked various concerns among researchers, academics and other stakeholders. The question is whether Basel III regulation is ideal, that is, adequate to deal with a crisis, such as the 2007–2009 global financial crisis? The purpose of this paper is threefold: First, perform a stress testing exercise on the US banking sector, while examining liquidity and solvency risk indicators jointly under the Basel III regulatory framework. Second, allow the study to cover the post-crisis period, while referring to key Basel III regulatory requirements. And third, focus on the resilience of domestic systemically important banks (D-SIBs), which are supposed to support the US financial system in times of stress and therefore whose failure causes the entire financial system to fail.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used a sample of the 24 largest US banks observed over the period Q1-2015 to Q1-2021 and a scenario-based vector autoregressive conditional forecasting approach.

Findings

The authors found that the model successfully produces accurate forecasts and simulates the responses of the solvency and liquidity indicators to different real and historical macroeconomic shocks. The authors also found that the US banking sector is resilient and can withstand both historical and hypothetical macroeconomic shocks because of its compliance with the Basel III capital and liquidity regulations, which consist of encouraging banks to hold high-quality liquid assets and stable funding resources and to strengthen their capital, which absorbs the losses incurred in a crisis.

Originality/value

The authors developed a framework for testing the resilience of the US banking sector under macroeconomic shocks, while examining liquidity and solvency risk indicators jointly under Basel III regulatory framework, a point not yet well studied elsewhere, and most studies on this subject are based on precrisis data. The authors also focused on the resilience of D-SIBs, whose failure causes the failure of the entire financial system, which previous studies have failed to examine.
Fiscal space, governance quality and inclusive growth: evidence from Africa
Authors: Katuka Blessing , Mudzingiri Calvin , Ozili Peterson K.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of fiscal space and governance quality on inclusive growth in African countries.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 28 African countries were analyzed from 2000 to 2020 using the generalized method of moment regression method. An inclusive growth index was developed using the principal component analysis (PCA) method. The PCA-derived index incorporates factors such as poverty, income inequality, economic participation and per capita income.

Findings

The main findings suggest that fiscal space availability (de facto fiscal space and fiscal balance) promotes inclusive growth. The study also showed that lagged inclusive growth, digitalization and governance indicators positively influence inclusive growth. The study concludes that fiscal space availability fosters inclusive growth, but this effect is mediated by governance quality in Africa.

Originality/value

Several studies examined the role of fiscal policy on inclusive growth. However, it is crucial to assess the fiscal space, that is, the financial capacity of the government to implement its fiscal policy without harming its financial stability. This paper, therefore, contributes to the existing literature by using de facto fiscal space indicator to comprehend fiscal dynamics contributing to inclusive growth. In addition, the paper uniquely constructs an inclusive growth index by including poverty severity, which considers both the incidence and depth of poverty and inequality in society.
Investor response to financial news in the digital transformation era: the impact of accounting disclosures and herding behavior as indirect effect
Authors: Hussain Shatha Mustafa , Alaya Amer
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine investors' reactions to bad financial news (IRBFN) based on complex financial accounting disclosures (CFAD) as well as how investors' herding behavior influences investor reactions in United Arab Emirates (UAE) project-based organizations (PBOs).

Design/methodology/approach

The primary data collection was furnished via online questionnaires, and 310 completed questionnaires were analyzed using structural equation modelling (SEM), moderation analysis, multiple regression simulations and path analysis.

Findings

The study shows that four out of the five CFAD dimensions observed – investors’ relations (IR), board and management structure, transparency disclosure and other disclosure channels – have a direct influence on investor's reactions to bad financial news, with the exception of “external auditing and audit service”. In addition, investor herding has a moderation impact on the relationship between CFAD and IRBFN.

Research limitations/implications

There is a possibility that the broad view of the results may be limited by the size of the research sample. The paper's findings should therefore be authenticated at an intercontinental level with the same conceptual framework in other nations.

Practical implications

The purpose of modeling stakeholders' decision-making process is to improve their decisions and to control their reactions that may negatively affect PBOs in the UAE.

Originality/value

This research contributes to planned behavior theory and agency theory in the UAE context, both of which are empirically tested.
Null effects of age and gender on worker well-being, work-family conflict and performance while working remotely during the Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Marcus Justin , Aksoy Eda , Bolat Oya Inci , Bolat Tamer
Published: November 2023

Purpose

A growing body of research has suggested that the fallout of the Covid-19 pandemic has disproportionately impacted vulnerable groups such as working women, parents and older adults. Accordingly, and via the lens of social role and identity theories on gender and age at work, the authors examined the intersection of age, gender and potential caregiving responsibilities on worker well-being, work-family conflict and performance while working remotely during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

In all, 1,174 Turkish job incumbents working from home either full- or part-time responded to a survey measuring self-reported anxiety, depression, stress, work-to-family conflict, family-to-work conflict and performance in the summer of 2020.

Findings

Despite using Bayesian modeling, good sample variability on age, gender and caregiving responsibilities, data collection timing allowing for the maximization of variance in individual attitudes toward working from home during the pandemic, outcome measures that evidenced excellent reliability and reasonably good data fit, and the inclusion of appropriate covariates and stringent robustness tests, hypothesized effects were overall found to be null.

Practical implications

The authors suggest that if remote work helps level the playing field, then that is impetus for organizations to further transition into such work arrangements.

Originality/value

The authors speculate on these counterintuitive results and suggest implications for future research and practice on the confluence of remote work and workplace diversity, including the potential benefits of remote work for women and older adults, the role of cultural values and the use of Bayesian methods to infer support for the null.
Restricting freedom of contract – the EU foreign subsidies regulation and its consequences for public procurement
Authors: Kania Michał , Andhov Marta
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the recently enacted Regulation (EU) 2022/2560 of the European Parliament and of the Council of December 14, 2022, on foreign subsidies distorting the internal market (foreign subsidies regulation [FSR]) and its repercussions on the European Union (EU) public procurement marketplace and corporations from third countries. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the geopolitical and economic backgrounds for the Regulation and its efficiency.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the authors used doctrinal and analytical legal methodologies, meticulously examining pertinent EU law sources. The authors systematically collated and scrutinized applicable literature and legislative process materials to discern the essence and substance of the norms enshrined in the law. In this study, the authors also applied a socio-legal methodology when focusing on the economic and geopolitical context surrounding the adoption of the FSR. The contextual analysis traces the evolution of changes in international cooperation and recent political shifts.

Findings

Implementing the FSR should pave the way for a more equitable competitive landscape within the EU public procurement market, bolstering EU values. However, its potential to prolong public procurement procedures and create uncertainties regarding their outcomes could pose challenges, possibly affecting the effectiveness of public procurement regulations. Only time will reveal the extent of the EU’s interventionist approach and how necessary adjustments must be made to align with market demands.

Social implications

This study highlights socially relevant aspects of the implementation of EU policies – European New Green Deal and European Industrial Policy in the context of public procurement. The analysis contained in this study concerns issues directly related to meeting the collective needs of the citizens.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first in-depth analysis of the solutions contained in the FSR in terms of geopolitical and economic aspects. Furthermore, there have been no studies so far, which have analyzed the FSR in detail from the point of view of its effectiveness. The effectiveness concept contained in this study is the authors’ own solution.
High-performance work systems and firm innovation: the moderating role of digital technology and employee participation. Evidence from Europe
Authors: Curzi Ylenia , Ferrarini Filippo
Published: November 2023

Purpose

In the literature, evidence is to be found of the positive effect of high-performance work systems (HPWSs) on innovation in firms. However, innovation is enabled by not only human resources but also digital technology, and scholars have called for further investigation into the interplay between digital technology and HRM systems. Drawing on signalling theory and HPWSs research, the purpose of this study is to explore the moderating role of digital technologies in the relationship between HPWSs and innovation in the firm and consider employee participation as an additional conditioning factor.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses data from the European Company Suvery 2019 administered in a sample of more than 20,000 European establishments and applies logistic regression with a three-way interaction.

Findings

HPWSs underpin product and process innovation. Moreover, this study shows that in firms with low levels of employee participation, digital technology enhances the effect of HPWSs on innovation, while in firms with high levels of employee participation, this effect is reduced.

Originality/value

This study enriches the scholarly discussion about the link between HPWSs and innovation in the firm, by investigating in theoretical and empirical terms the moderating effect of digital technology, underlining that either positive or negative synergistic effects are possible. By adding employee participation to the analysis, the authors cast light on an important boundary condition for understanding when the synergic effects become more prominent. This intends to respond to recent calls from scholars and practitioners for more insight into the precise nature of the synergies between HPWSs and digital technology on innovation in the firm, with important implications for management.
Patient experiences of endometriosis diagnosis: A mixed methods approach
Authors: Requadt Elise , Nahlik Andrew J. , Jacobsen Anna , Ross Whitney Trotter
Published: November 2023

Objective

To examine patient‐described experiences of endometriosis diagnosis.

Design

Mixed‐methods study.

Setting

Online patient‐led endometriosis support groups.

Population or Sample

People with endometriosis aged over 18.

Methods

A survey with qualitative and quantitative questions was distributed through online patient‐led endometriosis support groups. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse quantitative data, and thematic analysis was used for qualitative responses. Quantitative and qualitative data were triangulated to examine patient experiences of endometriosis diagnosis across age groups.

Main outcome measures

Experiences of endometriosis diagnosis among people with endometriosis.

Results

A total of 2017 people with endometriosis from 63 countries responded to the questionnaire. Patients experienced an average delay of 3.7 years between symptom onset and first presentation of symptoms to a physician (the care‐seeking delay) and an average delay of 5.8 years between first presentation of symptoms to a physician and diagnosis of endometriosis (the healthcare‐related delay). Patients experienced an average total diagnostic delay of 9.6 years. Participants aged over 35 at the time of the study reported significantly longer times to receive an endometriosis diagnosis (mean 10.7, 95% confidence interval [CI] 10.2–11.2) compared with participants age 18–24 (6.8, 95% CI 6.1–7.5 years). The qualitative analysis identified the following themes: physicians normalised endometriosis symptoms, patients felt their symptoms were ignored by physicians because they were considered unreliable, and participant character attributes (e.g. age, appearance, weight or physical ability) led to clinician dismissal.

Conclusions

People with endometriosis of all age groups reported pervasive negative healthcare experiences during their adolescence. Patients experience delays in seeking care and in receiving a diagnosis once presenting for care.
Exploring how health equity is addressed in accountable communities of/for health (ACHs)
Authors: Bultema Stephanie , Piper Kendra , Salas Esmeralda , Forberg Peter , Grinnell Sue
Published: November 2023

Objective

To explore how Accountable Communities of/for Health (ACHs), a type of health‐focused multisector collaborative, are developing strategies to address health equity with diverse partners.

Data Sources and Study Setting

Interview and focus group participants were recruited from a purposive sample of 22 ACH participant organizations in Washington (n = 9 ACHs) and California (n = 13 ACH).

Study Design

Interview and focus group data were thematized using constant comparison analysis.

Data Collection

Interviews were conducted to learn how each ACH's system context, collaboration processes, and goals influence its progress toward health equity. Focus groups were conducted to gain a deeper understanding of how local context and power dynamics influence an ACH's ability to make progress toward health equity. There were 22 focus group participants and 65 interview participants.

Principal Findings

Results indicate that ACHs advance health equity across the social‐ecological spectrum of health with approaches targeting the individual, community, and societal levels. Specific approaches used by ACHs to collaboratively address health equity include providing equity education to participating organizations and community groups; including diverse community voices in collaborative decision‐making; changing practices in their participant's daily operations; improving existing services and developing new services; and actively promoting a culture of keeping equity at the center of ACH efforts.

Conclusions

This study identifies strategies for advancing health equity in multisector collaboratives. ACHs in Washington and California are devoting resources to ensure health equity is central to their work. The numerous approaches ACHs use to advance health equity are important to ensure everyone can reach their full health potential. While current literature argues that multisector health initiatives are integral for advancing health equity, there is a lack of research on how these initiatives advance equity in practice. Thus, this paper provides generalizable strategies that can be further investigated to optimize progress toward health equity.
Targeting the redox system for cardiovascular regeneration in aging
Authors: Allemann Meret Sarah , Lee Pratintip , Beer Jürg H. , Saeedi Saravi Seyed Soheil
Published: November 2023

Cardiovascular aging presents a formidable challenge, as the aging process can lead to reduced cardiac function and heightened susceptibility to cardiovascular diseases. Consequently, there is an escalating, unmet medical need for innovative and effective cardiovascular regeneration strategies aimed at restoring and rejuvenating aging cardiovascular tissues. Altered redox homeostasis and the accumulation of oxidative damage play a pivotal role in detrimental changes to stem cell function and cellular senescence, hampering regenerative capacity in aged cardiovascular system. A mounting body of evidence underscores the significance of targeting redox machinery to restore stem cell self‐renewal and enhance their differentiation potential into youthful cardiovascular lineages. Hence, the redox machinery holds promise as a target for optimizing cardiovascular regenerative therapies. In this context, we delve into the current understanding of redox homeostasis in regulating stem cell function and reprogramming processes that impact the regenerative potential of the cardiovascular system. Furthermore, we offer insights into the recent translational and clinical implications of redox‐targeting compounds aimed at enhancing current regenerative therapies for aging cardiovascular tissues.
Allocation of decision‐making power and labour income share in listed companies: Evidence from China
Authors: Yan Xiang , Wang Jenny Jing , Zhang Ren Fang
Published: November 2023

This paper utilises the perspective of listed companies to explore the influence of decision‐making power allocation on labour income share and analyses the possible mechanisms. Utilising 16,650 firm‐year observations from both the Shenzhen and Shanghai stock exchanges between 2008 and 2021, the results show that decentralised decision‐making power can significantly improve the labour income share of enterprises. This result is more obvious in enterprises with non‐state‐owned property rights and low total factor productivity. Furthermore, decentralising enterprise decision‐making power reduces rent dissipation within the company, improves enterprise investment enthusiasm, increases investment in research and development, and promotes upgrading the labour force.
What are heads of department looking for in new general surgeons in Aotearoa New Zealand?
Authors: Tan Jeffrey , Korduke Olga , Smith Nicholas Lindsay , Eglinton Tim , Fischer Jesse
Published: November 2023

Background

Training pathways vary significantly after completion of the general surgery surgical education and training (SET) program due to increasing sub‐specialization. Aotearoa New Zealand requires a diverse range of general surgeons. Appointment of new consultant surgeons can be an opaque process; trainees are often uncertain how to tailor their training to that required by potential employers. Heads of departments (HODs) are influential in new appointments, and their opinions on desirable candidate attributes are valuable.

Methods

An online survey was conducted in March 2023. All public hospital general surgery HODs were invited to participate. The survey sought opinions on the importance of attributes, skills and experience when appointing a new consultant general surgeon.

Results

The response rate was 70% (14/20) including 6 of 7 HODs from tertiary hospitals and 8 of 13 from secondary hospitals. The top three desirable factors were all personal attributes (being a team player, having a strong work ethic, and good interpersonal skills). 10 of 14 respondents disagreed that SET completion alone is sufficient without the need for further training. Most respondents preferred at least 2 years of fellowship training, except for trauma and endocrine surgery, where 1 year was frequently considered sufficient. Only one respondent agreed formal research training is highly valued.

Conclusion

Trainees would be wise to obtain training desired by the majority of HODs while building an individualized profile of attributes, skills and experience tailored to hospitals they may wish to work in. The findings should be considered by organizations responsible for general surgical training and workforce planning.
The “European Yellowstone”: Entrepreneurs of the Wilderness and Transnational Elites in the Romanian Carpathians
Authors: Vesalon Lucian , Anghel Remus Gabriel
Published: November 2023

Carpathia—dubbed the “European Yellowstone”—is a private nature conservation project in Romania. Its establishment activates a critical linkage between entrepreneurs of the wilderness and transnational conservation elites. We indicate the contribution of entrepreneurialism to the expansion and adaptation of neoliberal conservation and reveal how biographical contingencies are involved in the making of conservation projects. At the same time, the focus on transnationalism reveals how local projects are designed, scaled‐up, and connected to global neoliberal conservation networks. Carpathia reveals the adaptability of neoliberal conservation and its expansion into the Eastern European peripheries through transnational elites. Its establishment illustrates how private conservation projects become essential sites for securing privileged access to nature in times of global ecological crises and uncovers the varieties of the global geographies of capitalist conservation.
Safety and performance of the Clearum™ high flux hemodialyzer
Authors: Krüger Thilo , Dellanna Frank , Kleophas Werner , Flader Ons , McClure Candace , Caiazzo Marialuisa , Manfredini Silvia
Published: November 2023

Background

Clearum™ is a high flux steam sterilized dialyzer for patients with hemodialysis or hemodiafiltration. This study evaluated the safety and performance of the Clearum high flux steam sterilized hemodialyzer in the removal of small and middle‐sized toxins.

Methods

A prospective, interventional, nonrandomized study enrolled twenty end‐stage renal disease patients undergoing hemodialysis. The Clearum high flux steam sterilized dialyzer was compared to Fresenius FX dialyzers for baseline comparison. The duration of the trial was 2 weeks for the FX dialyzer and 6 weeks with the Clearum high flux steam sterilized dialyzer. In vitro studies with dextrans of varying sizes were performed to compare the membrane characteristics and sieving coefficient curves for the two dialyzers.

Results

The primary objective of a mean urea reduction ratio >65% was met, with no significant difference in mean urea reduction ratio between the Clearum high flux steam sterilized and Fresenius FX‐series of dialyzers (p = 0.86). No dialyzer‐related adverse events were reported in the study. β‐2‐microglobulin reduction with the Clearum high flux steam sterilized dialyzer was statistically higher than the FX‐series dialyzer (66.5% vs. 53.6%; p < 0.0001). Predialysis interleukin‐6 and C‐reactive protein concentrations, blood‐rest scores (residual blood after blood restitution), and thrombin‐anti‐thrombin values were comparable. Albumin remained stable during the 6 weeks of Clearum high flux steam sterilized dialyzer use, with no appreciable differences compared to the Fresenius FX‐series.

Conclusion

The Clearum high flux steam sterilized dialyzer showed good mid‐term effectivity for small and middle molecule removal with no reported dialyzer‐related adverse events.
A hop, skip and a jump towards evaluating social interaction and learning through play at a child and adolescent inpatient treatment program
Authors: Hassinger‐Das Brenna , Fletcher Katelyn , Todaro Rachael , Scott Molly , Hirsh‐Pasek Kathy
Published: November 2023

Background

The number of inpatient mental health facilities for children and adolescents in the United States is growing rapidly. While undergoing inpatient treatment, children and adolescents can benefit from innovative play opportunities designed to foster social interaction and learning.

Methods

The Playful Learning Landscapes (PLL) initiative is a group of projects designed to transform everyday spaces into opportunities for playful learning. As a part of this initiative, two designs—Lifesize Ruler and Jumping Feet—were installed in an inpatient mental health facility for children and adolescents in the Mid‐Atlantic region of the United States.

Results

Results of pre‐installation and post‐installation naturalistic observations suggested that social interactions, the use of STEM‐related language and 21st century skills, including confidence, increased after interacting with the installations.

Conclusions

While previous research on PLL projects has demonstrated the efficacy of transforming public spaces into places for playful learning, this research provides support that, even in private, targeted settings, using a trauma‐informed approach, children and adolescents, can reap the benefits of playful learning.
No Peace for the Wicked? Immorality Is Thought to Disrupt Intrapersonal Harmony, Impeding Positive Psychological States and Happiness
Authors: Prinzing Michael M. , Fredrickson Barbara L.
Published: November 2023

Why do people think that someone living a morally bad life is less happy than someone living a good life? One possibility is that judging whether someone is happy involves not only attributing positive psychological states (i.e., lots of pleasant emotions, few unpleasant emotions, and satisfaction with life) but also forming an evaluative judgment. Another possibility is that moral considerations affect happiness attributions because they tacitly influence attributions of positive psychological states. In two studies, we found strong support for the second hypothesis. Moral considerations only appear to affect happiness attributions when they also affect attributions of positive psychological states. Additionally, both studies supported a hypothesis about why moral judgments have these effects. Specifically, we found that when people judge that someone is living a bad life, they infer that the person is not at peace with themselves. However, when this inference is blocked, moral considerations do not affect attributions of happiness or positive psychological states. In sum, although “happiness” appears to be a purely psychological concept, happiness judgments are sensitive to moral considerations because people often assume that immorality disrupts intrapersonal harmony.
New insights into the interaction between m6A modification and lncRNA in cancer drug resistance
Authors: Jin Yizhou , Fan Zhipeng
Published: November 2023

Drug resistance is perhaps the greatest obstacle in improving outcomes for cancer patients, leading to recurrence, progression and metastasis of various cancers. Exploring the underlying mechanism worth further study. N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) is the most common RNA modification found in eukaryotes, playing a vital role in RNA translation, transportation, stability, degradation, splicing and processing. Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) refers to a group of transcripts that are longer than 200 nucleotides (nt) and typically lack the ability to code for proteins. LncRNA has been identified to play a significant role in regulating multiple aspects of tumour development and progression, including proliferation, metastasis, metabolism, and resistance to treatment. In recent years, a growing body of evidence has emerged, highlighting the crucial role of the interplay between m6A modification and lncRNA in determining the sensitivity of cancer cells to chemotherapeutic agents. In this review, we focus on the recent advancements in the interaction between m6A modification and lncRNA in the modulation of cancer drug resistance. Additionally, we aim to explore the underlying mechanisms involved in this process. The objective of this review is to provide valuable insights and suggest potential future directions for the reversal of chemoresistance in cancer.
Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease is associated with brain function disruption in type 2 diabetes patients without cognitive impairment
Authors: Li Xin , Zhang Wen , Bi Yan , Chen Jiu , Fu Linqing , Zhang Zhou , Chen Qian , Zhang Xin , Zhu Zhengyang , Zhang Bing
Published: November 2023

Aims

To investigate the neural static and dynamic intrinsic activity of intra‐/inter‐network topology among patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and those without NAFLD (T2NAFLD group and T2noNAFLD group, respectively) and to assess the relationship with metabolism.

Methods

Fifty‐six patients with T2NAFLD, 78 with T2noNAFLD, and 55 healthy controls (HCs) were recruited to the study. Participants had normal cognition and underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging scans, clinical measurements, and global cognition evaluation. Independent component analysis was used to identify frequency spectrum parameters, static functional network connectivity, and temporal properties of dynamic functional network connectivity (P < 0.05, false discovery rate‐corrected). Statistical analysis involved one‐way analysis of covariance with post hoc, partial correlation and canonical correlation analyses.

Results

Our findings showed that: (i) T2NAFLD patients had more disordered glucose and lipid metabolism, had more severe insulin resistance, and were more obese than T2noNAFLD patients; (ii) T2D patients exhibited disrupted brain function, as evidenced by alterations in intra‐/inter‐network topology, even without clinically measurable cognitive impairment; (iii) T2NAFLD patients had more significant reductions in the frequency spectrum parameters of cognitive executive and visual networks than those with T2noNAFLD; and (iv) altered brain function in T2D patients was correlated with postprandial glucose, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and waist‐hip ratio.

Conclusion

This study may provide novel insights into neuroimaging correlates for underlying pathophysiological processes inducing brain damage in T2NAFLD. Thus, controlling blood glucose levels, lipid levels and abdominal obesity may reduce brain damage risk in such patients.