bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In situ
characterization of qubit-drive phase distortions
Authors: Gely M.F. , Litarowicz J.M.A. , Leu A.D. , Lucas D.M.
Published: August 2024

Reducing errors in quantum gates is critical to the development of quantum computers. To do so, any distortions in the control signals should be identified; however, conventional tools are not always applicable when part of the system is under high vacuum, cryogenic, or microscopic. Here, we demonstrate a method to detect and compensate for amplitude-dependent phase changes, using the qubit itself as a probe. The technique is implemented using a microwave-driven trapped-ion qubit, where correcting phase distortions leads to a threefold improvement in the error of single-qubit gates implemented with pulses of different amplitudes, to attain state-of-the-art performance benchmarked at 1.6(4)×10−6 error per Clifford gate.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Spontaneous splitting of
d
-wave surface states: Competition between circulating currents and edge magnetization
Authors: Seja Kevin Marc , Wall-Wennerdal Niclas , Löfwander Tomas , Fogelström Mikael
Published: August 2024

Pair-breaking edges of d-wave superconductors feature Andreev bound states at the Fermi energy. Since these states are energetically highly unfavorable they are susceptible to effects that shift them to finite energy. We investigate the free energy of two different mechanisms: spontaneous phase gradients in the superconducting order parameter and surface ferromagnetism caused by Fermi liquid interaction effects. We find that the surface magnetization appears at lower temperatures than the spontaneous current flow of the phase-crystal state. The magnetic state can, however, be energetically favorable at lower temperatures for sufficiently strong Fermi liquid effects. Thus, first-order transitions between the two states as function of system temperature are possible, suggesting a rich low-temperature phase diagram in d-wave superconductors.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
X-Ray–Cosmic-Shear Cross-Correlations: First Detection and Constraints on Baryonic Effects
Authors: Ferreira Tassia , Alonso David , Garcia-Garcia Carlos , Chisari Nora Elisa
Published: August 2024

We report the first detection, at very high significance (23σ), of the cross-correlation between cosmic shear and the diffuse x-ray background, using data from the Dark Energy Survey and the ROSAT satellite. The x-ray cross-correlation signal is sensitive to the distribution of the surrounding gas in dark matter halos. This allows us to use our measurements to place constraints on key physical parameters that determine the impact of baryonic effects in the matter power spectrum. In particular, we determine the mass of halos in which feedback has expelled half of their gas content on average to be log10(Mc/M⊙)=13.643−0.12+0.081 and the polytropic index of the gas to be Γ=1.231−0.011+0.015. This represents a first step in the direct use of x-ray cross-correlations to obtain improved constraints on cosmology and the physics of the intergalactic gas.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Exploring the brand experience in the metaverse under the perspective of technology acceptance model
Authors: Yu Xiaolei , Cheng Xuxiang , Kim Kyung Hoon , Wang Huanzhang
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore how perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use affect users' sensory experience and behavioral experience in the metaverse context, and explore the significance of building a metaverse platform for companies, and provide management enlightenment for corporate development.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 329 online participants and analyzed using structural equation modeling and hierarchical regression.

Findings

Perceived usefulness and ease of use have a significant influence on customer sensory experience and behavioral experience in the metaverse. Sensory experience mediates the influence of perceived usefulness and availability on behavioral experience. Social presence positively moderates the influence of both usefulness and ease of use on sensory and behavioral experience. In other words, perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use in the metaverse situation affect sensory experience through social presence, and then affect behavioral experience.

Originality/value

This research clarifies the effect of usefulness and ease of use on customer sensory and behavioral experience. It confirms the positive moderating role of social presence and the mediating role of sensory experience in the influence pathway between perceived usefulness, ease of use, and behavioral experience. From the perspective of management, this study provides theoretical support for the positive impact of corporate metaverse platform building on customer brand experience in the future, and provides impetus for companies to pay attention to improving the usefulness and ease of use of their metaverse platform.
How consumers value sustainable packaging: an experimental test combining packaging material, claim and price
Authors: Hallez Lotte , Spruyt Bram , Boen Filip , Smits Tim
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the combined impact of two packaging cues (i.e. packaging material, recycled content claim) and a price premium on young consumers’ product perceptions and choices.

Design/methodology/approach

Experimental data were collected online via a questionnaire and a hypothetical choice task completed by 221 young consumers (i.e. 19–25 years). We manipulated two packaging cues for a liquid food product: the packaging material (glass vs plastic) and the presence (vs absence) of a recycled content claim (i.e. 100% recycled). We also manipulated whether a price premium was attached to these packaging variations.

Findings

The packaging material and the claim both had a significant influence on young consumers’ sustainability perceptions, and these perceptions extended to perceptions of various product attributes (e.g. healthiness, quality). When all products cost the same, participants were more likely to choose a glass bottle (i.e. 81%) than a plastic bottle, and a bottle with the recycled content claim (i.e. 79%) than a bottle without this claim. However, these preferences dropped significantly when a price premium was attached to these packaging variations.

Originality/value

While most studies have relied on surveys and qualitative methods to investigate consumers’ reactions to sustainable packaging, our research uses an experimental method to assess how packaging impacts young consumers’ perceptions and choices. Additionally, by manipulating the presence of a price premium, this study uniquely investigates the impact of such a premium on young consumers' willingness to choose sustainable packaging.
Beyond catching a glimpse: young adults' perceptions of social media cooking content
Authors: Camargo Anice Milbratz de , Botelho Alyne Michelle , Dean Moira , Fiates Giovanna M.R.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The study aims to explore how young adults perceive cooking contents on social media and their interaction with it.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative study using semi structured interviews with Brazilian young adults who cook (19–24 years old, n = 31) was the method employed. Interview audio recordings were transcribed and submitted to inductive and reflexive thematic analysis.

Findings

Data analysis generated six different themes. Young adults valued the profiles’ aesthetics and quality in terms of straightforwardness, trustworthiness, novelty and authenticity of information; they also identified with the profiles’ authors. When pressed for time, aesthetics was less valued than straightforwardness. Participants felt overwhelmed by the excessive information on social media and developed coping strategies to deal with this issue.

Originality/value

The lack of cooking and food skills is a recognized barrier for healthy eating in the young adult population. Social media can play a prominent role in delivering cooking-related information to the younger generation, but research on people’s perceptions of the cooking content available online is scarce and does not focus on how actual engagement with the available content happens. This qualitative exploration revealed which features young adults prefer when using social media to access cooking content, which can inform future interventions to promote cooking and improve health.
Exploring business model diversification and circular value creation in digital platforms for circular economy: insights from Chinese preowned electronics industry
Authors: Chen Xiaoling , Shen Caiyun , Zheng Wenying
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Circular economy firms, unlike those in a linear economy, encounter significant challenges due to the nature of nonstandardized products, such as asymmetric information on product specifications and highly dispersed supply and demand. Consequently, achieving large-scale operations becomes inherently difficult for them. However, when digital platform-based circular firms adopt diversified business models, their value creation has the potential to achieve significant scale. This study aims to answer “How do digital platform-based circular firms scale up value creation through business model diversification?”.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use a qualitative case study design with a longitudinal (2011–2023) analysis of the various business models developed by ATRenew, a leading firm in the Chinese preowned electronics industry.

Findings

The authors find that the recycling business model can act as a “cornerstone” business model for a circular firm to integrate the business model portfolio by leveraging the most synergies (or complementarities) with other business models. Besides, digital platform-based circular firms can effectively scale up value creation by leveraging capability complementary on the supply side, through establishing industrial infrastructure shared with the platform ecosystem; and by leveraging customer complementary on the demand side, through activating the dual role played by platform users as suppliers and consumers.

Originality/value

The authors contribute to the circular business models literature with three mechanisms to scale up circular value creation through business model diversification and advance a set of propositions to be tested in future research. This also has important practical implications for circular economy platform businesses.
Board gender diversity in innovative SMEs: an investigation across industrial sectors
Authors: Schifilliti Valeria , La Rocca Elvira Tiziana
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Investigating the drivers that contribute to the success of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is crucial for ensuring the overall growth and sustainability of a country. The purpose of this research is to investigate the role of gender diversity on the Board of Directors of innovative SMEs to understand whether the presence of women on boards can improve the performance of such organizations devoted to introducing technological advancements in the product market.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts a quantitative approach, using a sample of 2,264 Italian innovative SMEs. These companies were selected from non-financial sectors and collected from Analisi informatizzata delle Aziende Italiane (AIDA), a database provided by Bureau van Dijk. An unbalanced panel data involving a period from 2016 to 2021 was used with a total of 12,173 observations.

Findings

Our findings suggest that female representation has a negative effect on a company's financial performance. Moreover, the moderation effect of sector growth opportunities confirms this negative influence since in sectors characterized by high growth opportunities, the presence of women on boards was found to have a negative outcome.

Originality/value

The main contribution of the work lies in offering a comprehensive and thorough examination of the business category of innovative SMEs. Specifically, it extends previous research through a focus on board gender diversity of innovative SMEs by examining the impact of the presence of women in their boardrooms on firm performance outcomes. Furthermore, it provides an analysis of this effect, considering both high-growth and low-growth sectors.
Technology for sustainability: the impact of Avatar-led Green Training on OCBE and green creativity
Authors: Hao Fei , Ng Wailing , Aman Adil Masud , Zhang Chen
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study evaluates the impact of Avatar-led Green Training on enhancing organizational citizenship behavior for the environment (OCBE) and green creativity among employees in the hospitality sector. This study aims to understand how such innovative training influences green engagement and workplace spirituality, exploring the role of employees’ biospheric values in this context.

Design/methodology/approach

The research involved implementing Avatar-led Green Training courses for 724 hotel employees, followed by comprehensive online surveys. The collected data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling to assess the effectiveness and implications of the training.

Findings

Findings indicate that Avatar-led Green Training significantly enhances green engagement in OCBE, primarily through the development of workplace spirituality. Additionally, the study discovers a moderating effect of biospheric value on the training’s efficacy in fostering workplace spirituality, underlining its critical role in environmental consciousness and creativity.

Practical implications

This research benefits managers, human resources professionals, senior leaders and employees by enhancing training effectiveness and workplace satisfaction, while also positively impacting the industry’s environmental footprint and reputation.

Originality/value

This study’s originality lies in its exploration of artificial intelligence (AI)-driven training methods, particularly Avatar-led Green Training, in enhancing OCBE and green creativity in the hospitality sector. It offers a novel perspective on how technology can be leveraged for environmental stewardship and employee engagement.
Effects of washing on structural parameters of medical compression stockings
Authors: Li Qing , Li Chulin , Dong Dongdong , Han Huimin , Sun Guangwu , Chen Xiaona , Hu Hongyan , Hu Wenfeng , Xie Hong , Li Yanmei
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate how the structure of medical compression stockings, including three compression levels and five cross-sections from the ankle to the thigh part, will be changed after washing in different conditions and further investigate the effect of the washing parameters on the medical compression stockings.

Design/methodology/approach

By washing medical compression stockings in different conditions and measuring the structures (including the density, the girth, the transversal and lengthwise dimension, the weight per unit area and the thickness) of medical compression stockings from the knee to the thigh part.

Findings

It was concluded that the density, the weight per unit and the thickness increase and the girth, the transversal and lengthwise dimension, the weight per unit and the thickness decrease. The change degree of Class one and Class two is greater than Class 3. Moreover, the washing temperature is the most significant factor affecting all the structures of medical compression stockings. Meanwhile, the mechanical actions of the washing machine, like drum speed and washing time, also influence different medical compression stockings structures to different degrees.

Research limitations/implications

The washing parameter not only includes the temperature and washing cycles but also has other factors, such as the drum speed and washing time. In addition, different kinds of factors will be influenced by each other.

Originality/value

This study can provide consumers advices on the washing of medical compression stockings, and attribute to the optimization of materials and structures to maintain its properties for manufacturers.
Where projects and non-projects coexist in the core challenges for frontline managers
Authors: Nesheim Torstein , Schou Peter Kalum
Published: August 2024

Purpose

There are different organizational contexts for projects. Here, the focus is on a balanced co-existence organization (BCO) where core activities combine project-based and non-project based work, a context that differs from both project-based organizations (PBOs) and project-supported organizations (PSOs). Through differentiating between the role of resource and project manager, and encompassing a specific combination of projects and ongoing, recurrent work, the authors extend the understanding of frontline managers and HRM in project settings.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a case study of a 1000+ department in a Norwegian firm with 38 interviews with the use of qualitative analysis.

Findings

The empirical study of one case of BCO reveals a HRM system with four different constellations of front line managers, each with their own perceived advantages and challenges. Based on the findings here, we have drawn implications for research on the BCO category, as well as comparative research on the three different contexts for projects. Issues that would benefit from comparative studies of polyadic HRM include constellations of front line manager roles, tensions involving projects, mechanisms for allocation of human resources, as well as the sources and mechanisms of stability and change.

Research limitations/implications

The findings are limited to one organization.

Practical implications

This study provides a potential for further research on HRM issues in the BCO category.

Originality/value

The analysis develops the BCO category and introduces a category of three organizational contexts for projects. We provide better understanding of the three types and its HRM challenges.
Self-talk: exploring and validating its dimensions among service sector employees
Authors: Aggarwal Pooja , Singh Vandana
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study is conducted with an aim to develop and validate self-talk scale for service sector employees designed to measure dimensions that are relevant for their conduct in job.

Design/methodology/approach

A three-phase study, which is conducted firstly, with a sample of 250 and then with another sample of 671 employees of service sector. Both factor exploration and confirmation are applied for testing the psychometric properties.

Findings

A well-developed and validated instrument comprising of 17 statements with four dimensions of self-talk, which are self-compassionate, rational, task oriented and self-regulation in social settings relevant to regulate ones job behaviour.

Originality/value

The instrument so developed becomes the first of its kind to be validated on organisational employees. The instrument provides an important means to estimate the cognitive process of self-talk, especially for employees working in fields that requires them to deal with people. Moreover, enabling individuals to understand the subtle nuances that take place in the mind while regulating ones behaviour. Thus, proving to be a promising instrument, as this can serve as a base for identifying the need for industrial training programmes or interventions.
Sustainability education in nursing degree for climate-smart healthcare: a quasi-experimental study
Authors: Álvarez-Nieto Carmen , Parra-Anguita Laura , Álvarez-García Cristina , Montoro Ramirez Eva Maria , López-Franco María Dolores , Sanz-Martos Sebastián , López Medina Isabel María
Published: August 2024

Purpose

In light of the world’s accelerating march towards a sustainable future, the education for sustainable healthcare must be sufficiently acknowledged in health professions curricula. Early integration of these competences into nursing degree programme emphasizes its importance and applicability. This paper aims to investigate the effectiveness of an educational sustainability intervention in higher education to change nursing students’ attitudes towards sustainability and climate change, and environmental awareness.

Design/methodology/approach

A quasi-experimental study was performed with repeated measures between September 2019 and May 2023. Undergraduate students were introduced to sustainability and climate change in the context of healthcare using scenario-based learning and augmented reality over the courses in nursing degree. Participants' attitudes and awareness were collected by online questionnaires.

Findings

The educational intervention showed effectiveness in significantly improving attitudes towards climate change and sustainability, and the environmental awareness for changing their clinical practice (p < 0.01). However, students struggled to apply sustainability and address unsustainable practices in healthcare settings.

Originality/value

This study shows an effective model of curricular sustainability that can be implemented in other universities and health disciplines. The findings highlighting the importance of sustainability education in nursing and its potential to drive positive change in healthcare practice and society at large. Embedding key topics aligned with sustainable development goals in the curriculum prepares nursing or health workforce to address planetary health and implement sustainable practices that provide climate-smart care.
A study about pre-service teachers’ knowledge of the Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Calero María , Pina Tatiana , Mayoral Olga , Cantó José , Ull M. Ángeles , Vilches Amparo
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to analyse the level of knowledge about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of pre-service teachers in Early Childhood and Primary School Education at the University of Valencia (Spain) and the origin of this knowledge over several academic years, as well as to compare it with that of students of the Degree in Environmental Sciences at the same university.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire was designed, validated and administrated to 1,040 students of Degree in Early Childhood Education, Primary School Education and Environmental Science of the University of Valencia to analyse their knowledge of the SDGs and their evolution over three academic years (2019–20, 2020–21, 2021–22).

Findings

Statistical analysis shows that most of the participants are either unaware of the SDGs and their importance or have insufficient knowledge of the SDGs and their linkages.

Practical implications

The need to continue promoting teaching resources to favour the implementation of education for the SDG in initial teacher training is highlighted.

Social implications

Pre-service teachers can become agents of change if they understand the magnitude and complexity of the socio-environmental crisis and get involved through their educational action in the required measures to advance in the construction of more sustainable societies.

Originality/value

This study aims to emphasize the necessary training and involvement of students of the Degree in Early Childhood Education, Primary School Education and Environmental Science at the University of Valencia to advance in the transition to Sustainability.
Enhancing learning in design for manufacturing and assembly: the effects of augmented reality and game-based learning on student’s intrinsic motivation
Authors: Gill Amarpreet Singh , Irwin Derek , Long Pinzhuang , Sun Linjing , Towey Dave , Yu Wanling , Zhang Yanhui , Zheng Yaxin
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the effects on student motivation and perception of technological interventions within undergraduate mechanical engineering and product design and manufacture programs at a Sino-foreign international university. The authors use an augmented reality game application within a class on Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA) that was developed using the approaches of microlearning and digital game-based learning (DGBL).

Design/methodology/approach

Structured as design-based research, the study reports on developing innovative educational interventions and provides an empirical investigation of their effectiveness. Data were collected using a mixed methods approach, using pre- and post-tests and questionnaires, together with researcher observations and participant interviews.

Findings

Through two rounds of playtests, the game positively affected intrinsic motivation and encouraged higher-order cognitive learning, critical thinking, communication and collaboration. Collaborative learning plays a significant role, DGBL is preferred over traditional methods and microlearning reduces information density and cognitive overload.

Originality/value

The study contributes to our understanding of digital game-based interventions on students’ intrinsic motivation and provides insights into effective ways to design instructional materials in similar teaching and learning settings.
Using firm-level intellectual capital to achieve strategic sustainability: examination of phenomenon of business failure in terms of the critical events
Authors: Pereira Vijay , Jayawardena Nirma Sadamali , Sindhwani Rahul , Behl Abhishek , Laker Benjamin
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is twofold. Firstly, the authors have conducted a systematic investigation considering the historical pandemic periods (1991–2021) over 30 years to identify critical factors and business failure phenomenon during pandemics to explore “what”, “why” and “how” factors contributing to business failure during the COVID-19 pandemic and secondly identified interlinks of these factors to explain the phenomenon of business failure strategically through various quantitative models.

Design/methodology/approach

Firstly, the critical factors were identified through previous literature and systematically reported in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. To remove any bias in critical factor selection, Delphi method was employed. In the second phase, m-TISM approach was adopted to understand the interrelationships of the factors to develop the hierarchy levels. Lastly, MICMAC analysis was also done to evaluate the driving and dependence powers of the critical factors. For implementation of the stated methodology, expert opinion was collected to assess the critical factors based on their knowledge and experience. A total of seven experts were involved in this study.

Findings

Two major takeaways from the results of phase one were that “external environmental changes” was at the highest level and had the highest driving power as well as the lowest dependence power, while “inappropriate marketing techniques” was at the lowest level and had the highest dependence and lowest driving powers.

Practical implications

The ever-developing digital technologies act as a synonym to innovation and are shaping up to be the key to future-proofing any industry. However, before one can move towards developing effective strategies to mitigate any business disruptions, there is a need to assess the causes of business failures in the first place which is a major managerial implication identified through this study.

Originality/value

This paper can be considered as the first few studies to conduct a systematic investigation considering the historical pandemic periods (1991–2021) over 30 years to identify critical factors and business failure phenomenon during pandemics to explore “what”, “why” and “how” factors contributing to business failure during the COVID-19 pandemic and secondly identified interlinks of these factors to explain the phenomenon of business failure strategically through various quantitative models.
Model and algorithm for the location-inventory problem in pallet pooling systems
Authors: Miao Bowen , Shang Xiaoting , Yang Kai , Jia Bin , Zhang Guoqing
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This paper studies the location-inventory problem (LIP) in pallet pooling systems to improve resource utilization and save logistics costs, which is a new extension of the classical LIP and also an application of the LIP in pallet pooling systems.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed-integer linear programming is established, considering the location problem of pallet pooling centers (PPCs) with multi-level capacity, multi-period inventory management and bi-directional logistics. Owing to the computational complexity of the problem, a hybrid genetic algorithm (GA) is then proposed, where three local searching strategies are designed to improve the problem-solving efficiency. Lastly, numerical experiments are carried out to validate the feasibility of the established model and the efficiency of the proposed algorithm.

Findings

The results of numerical experiments show that (1) the proposed model can obtain the integrated optimal solution of the location problem and inventory management, which is better than the two-stage model and the model with single-level capacity; (2) the total cost and network structure are sensitive to the number of PPCs, the unit inventory cost, the proportion of repairable pallets and the fixed transportation cost and (3) the proposed hybrid GA shows good performance in terms of solution quality and computational time.

Originality/value

The established model extends the classical LIP by considering more practical factors, and the proposed algorithm provides support for solving large-scale problems. In addition, this study can also offer valuable decision support for managers in pallet pooling systems.
The right to education and attitudes toward Hijras in Bangladesh: assessing educational support to achieve sustainable communities
Authors: Kalam Abul , Alam Md Jahangir , Basharat Lubaba , Sarker Golam Faruk , Mamun M. Abdullah Al , Ahsan Abu Hossain Muhammad
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the current educational opportunities available to hermaphrodite (Hijra) students, analyze their difficulties while pursuing academic degrees and suggest potential approaches to address these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

This research used a qualitative method to analyze the challenges Hijra individuals face in pursuing education. A total of 20 interviews were conducted with two Hijra groups those who are pursuing an education and those who have abandoned it to collect primary data. The purposive sampling technique was used to identify and choose diverse sources of information. Moreover, the phenomena have been comprehended using the Access Theory and the Gender Stratification Theory.

Findings

The findings show that although every Bangladeshi has the right to a decent education, few Hijra youngsters attend schools. Numerous barriers, such as discriminatory views and remarks about third-gender people, physical and mental harassment, a lack of emotional and financial support, family issues, discrimination in the school community and hostility from classmates and teachers, make it difficult for hermaphrodite students to receive a proper education.

Originality/value

This research paper fills a gap in the current body of knowledge by presenting empirical evidence regarding young people’s perceptions of the third-gender, the societal barriers faced by Hijra individuals in their pursuit of quality education, their future opportunities, the root causes of these challenges and possible solutions.
Ozenoxacin suppresses sebum production by inhibiting mTORC1 activation in differentiated hamster sebocytes
Authors: Kitano Takamichi , Koiwai Toshikazu , Fujikawa Koki , Mori Sachi , Matsumoto Tatsumi , Sato Takashi
Published: August 2024

Acne vulgaris is a complex condition involving factors that affect the pilosebaceous unit. A primary manifestation of acne pathology is the development of comedones, often linked to the overproduction of sebum resulting from 5α‐dihydrotestosterone (5α‐DHT) and insulin activity. Ozenoxacin is a topical quinolone that exhibits potent antibacterial activity against Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes). It is commonly used to treat acne associated with this bacterium; however, its effect on sebum production within the sebaceous glands remains unclear. In this study, the effects of ozenoxacin on sebum production were examined using insulin‐ and 5α‐DHT‐differentiated hamster sebocytes. Ozenoxacin showed a dose‐dependent inhibition of lipid droplet formation and triacylglycerol (TG) production, which is a major component of sebum. In addition, it suppressed the expression of diacylglycerol acyltransferase 1, stearoyl‐CoA desaturase‐1, and perilipin‐1 mRNA, all important factors involved in sebum synthesis, in a dose‐dependent manner. Moreover, ozenoxacin decreased phosphorylated 40S ribosomal protein S6 levels downstream of the mechanistic/mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1), without altering the phosphorylation of Akt, an upstream regulator of mTORC1, in both insulin‐ and 5α‐DHT‐treated hamster sebocytes. Interestingly, nadifloxacin, but not clindamycin, exhibited a similar suppression of sebum production, albeit with lesser potency compared with ozenoxacin. Furthermore, a topical application of a 2% ozenoxacin‐containing lotion to the auricle skin of hamsters did not affect the size of the sebaceous glands or epidermal thickness. Notably, it decreased the amount of TG on the skin surface. The results provide novel insights into the sebum‐inhibitory properties of ozenoxacin, indicating its potential efficacy in controlling microbial growth and regulating sebum production for acne management.
Antecedents of sustainable agricultural supply chain financing for achieving food security in resource‐constrained developing economies: A complex adaptive systems theory perspective
Authors: Muntaka Abdul Samed , Apike Isaac Akurugu , Antwi David
Published: August 2024

The aim of this research is to examine what antecedents of supply chain financing (SCF) should be overcome to ensure that the agricultural supply chain from preplanting to postharvesting generates enough food to achieve sustainable food security in developing countries. Drawing from complex adaptive systems (CAS) theory, we develop and test a model of how a prospective and challenging financing scheme navigates complex social and repayment systems to achieve sustainable SCF. The results of the study show that a challenging financing scheme must navigate complex social and repayment systems to achieve sustainable SCF, while a prospective financing scheme even though it shows a positive influence on sustainable SCF, its effect is higher when it is able to navigate these. The study hence concludes that for agricultural SCF schemes to lead to sustainable food security, they must be accessible and appropriate to the needs of the community, overcome default risk and cumbersome financial arrangements and be able to navigate the complex social and repayment systems. The study recommends that financing schemes should establish proximity to farming communities and engage farmers to determine appropriate funds for different stages among others.
Eighteenth Century Religious Archives and “Lived Religion”
Authors: Jacob W.M.
Published: August 2024

This article discusses the deposit since the 1950s of the Church of England's local and national records, with particular reference to the eighteenth century, in Lambeth Palace Library and elsewhere, especially local authority archive offices. These records illustrate the established Church's engagement during the “long‐eighteenth century,” nationally, regionally and locally, with all levels of English society. The cataloguing and accessibility of these archives significantly contributed to the post‐1960s burgeoning of English social and economic history, particularly research about poverty, literacy and education. Frequently such research has neglected the religious‐faith base of the creators of these archives. However, parallel research about religion in the lives of laypeople and of English society generally in the “long‐eighteenth century” has led to questioning the long‐standing hypothesis of English society's secularisation following the seventeenth century Civil Wars. The article therefore provides a case study illustrating parochial and diocesan archives' evidence of religion permeating people's lives. Large numbers of better‐off laypeople lived out their religious faith by establishing and sustaining voluntary elementary education for poor children in the 3Rs and the practice of Christian faith and subsequently securing apprenticeships or service for them. Evidence also suggests large numbers of poor parents took up these opportunities.
Emotion Regulation, Relationship and Therapeutic Change in Analytical Psychology and Contemporary Psychodynamic Approaches
Authors: Roesler Christian
Published: August 2024

All contemporary psychotherapies agree that (failing) emotion regulation is central to psychological disorders and that psychotherapy is about improving emotion regulation. In his research on the “emotion‐laden” complex Jung put an emphasis on the role of failing emotion regulation in contributing to psychological disorders as well as to change in the process of psychotherapy, but he left this field of research and took a very different direction in favour of his archetype concept. Psychodynamic approaches generally argue that changes in emotion regulation are accomplished through corrective emotional experiences in the therapeutic relationship. Insights from affective neurosciences and attachment research have had a major influence on how the therapeutic relationship is constructed in contemporary psychodynamic approaches. There is a lack of similar developments in analytical psychology, which leads to substantial differences between the models of Jungian psychotherapy in contrast to other contemporary psychodynamic approaches. The implications of these differences for the practice of psychotherapy and especially the role of the therapeutic relationship are pointed out.
Risk factors for older people re‐presenting to the emergency department with falls: A case–control analysis
Authors: San Juan Charlene , Appiah‐Kubi Linda , Mitropoulos Joanna , Thomson Lorne , Demosthenous Athena , Kelly Anne‐Maree
Published: August 2024

Objective

Falls are a leading cause for ED presentations among older adults. Existing secondary falls prevention interventions have not been shown to decrease fall‐related ED re‐presentation, indicating a need to better understand contributing factors. Our aim was to evaluate risk factors for fall re‐presentations among the older patient population presenting to the ED.

Methods

This is a single‐centre case–control study. Cases were patients aged ≥65 years with two falls‐related ED presentations within 6 months. Age‐ and sex‐matched controls had a corresponding index, but no subsequent ED fall presentation. Data collected included falls risk factors and clinical features of the index presentation. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to assess the relationship between potential exposures and fall re‐presentation.

Results

A total of 300 patients (mean age 83.8 years) were studied. On univariate analysis, factors significantly associated with ED fall re‐presentation included increasing multimorbidity (P < 0.0001), increasing number of medications (P < 0.0001) and residing in residential aged care facility (RACF) (odds ratio [OR] 3.06, P < 0.001). No factors remained significant on multivariate analysis. Post‐hoc analyses for the RACF subgroup showed that psychotropic medication use (OR 1.65, P = 0.04) and prior fall within 12 months (OR 2.68, P < 0.001) were significantly associated with re‐presentation. Initial presentation with serious musculoskeletal injury was a significant protective factor (OR 0.21, P = 0.02).

Conclusion

The present study failed to identify factors independently associated with ED fall re‐presentation, suggesting that the factors are complex and inter‐related. Two high‐risk populations were identified – those from RACF and those initially presenting with falls not resulting in serious injury.
Inactivation kinetics for surrogates of common foodborne pathogens during food residue drying
Authors: Shea Emily , Toniato Juliano , Simmons Christopher
Published: August 2024

Postconsumer household food residues can act as useful substrates for other industries, but transporting high‐moisture material corresponds to high fuel use and associated greenhouse gas production. Drying food residues at the household level reduces transportation weight, increases stability, and preserves the nutritional quality of recovered material. Mitigating foodborne microbiological safety risks is crucial to encourage the development of novel methods to rapidly dry and stabilize food residues. The objective of this study was to improve the prediction of bacterial pathogen inactivation under various thermal and drying processes in a synthetic mixture of residual food material (RFM). The log reduction rate was measured for Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecium, and Listeria innocua (surrogates of common foodborne pathogens) in RFM under different moisture contents (12% and 25% by fresh weight) and temperatures (50, 55, and 60°C). Inactivation data were used to determine D‐ and z‐values and to fit a multiple regression model to predict log(D‐values) in response to temperature and moisture content. Across conditions, D‐values were measured to be 5.1–120, 4.6–123, and 32–545 min for E. coli, L. innocua, and E. faecium, respectively. Temperature sensitivities were significantly higher in lower moisture RFM for E. coli and L. innocua. Applying E. coli inactivation models during RFM at 55°C yielded inactivation rates that aligned with experimental values after 5 min (0.1 vs. 0–0.1 logs), 30 min (2.1 vs. 1.3–2.3 logs), and 90 min (7.2 vs. 7.1–8.9 logs). These results can inform the design of RFM drying and stabilization processes to promote pathogen inactivation and safety in downstream applications of dried material.
Efficacy of first‐line immune checkpoint inhibitor and anti‐angiogenic agent combination therapy for Kirsten rat sarcoma viral antigen‐mutant advanced non‐small‐cell lung cancer: a systematic review and network meta‐analysis
Authors: Tsukada Akinari , Morita Chie , Shimizu Yosuke , Uemura Yukari , Naka Go , Takasaki Jin , Nokihara Hiroshi , Izumi Shinyu , Hojo Masayuki
Published: August 2024

Background

Recent advancements in advanced non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatment have significantly improved primary therapy outcomes owing to the emergence of various molecular targeted therapies and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). However, for Kirsten rat sarcoma viral antigen (KRAS) mutations, molecular targeted drugs, such as sotorasib, are not applicable as first‐line treatments, and the optimal primary treatment remains unclear. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the efficacy of ICI combination therapy as first‐line treatment for KRAS‐mutant NSCLC.

Methods

We conducted a systematic search for phase 3 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that presented data on KRAS mutation status in advanced NSCLC. The primary endpoints were progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). A random‐effects network meta‐analysis was conducted to perform direct and indirect comparisons among treatment groups.

Results

Six RCTs were eligible for inclusion. In the network meta‐analysis for KRAS‐mutant NSCLC, Chemo + bevacizumab (Bev) + ICI was associated with improved PFS (hazard ratio [HR] 0.38, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.22–0.64), followed by Chemo + ICI + ICI (HR 0.66, 95% CI 0.47–0.93) and Chemo + ICI (HR 0.67, 95% CI 0.49–0.91). The most beneficial effect on OS was observed with Chemo + Bev + ICI (HR 0.50, 95% CI 0.34–0.73), followed by Chemo + ICI + ICI (HR 0.64, 95% CI 0.48–0.87) and Chemo + ICI (HR 0.72, 95% CI 0.56–0.92). Regarding OS in wild‐type KRAS, ICI + ICI (HR 0.73, 95% CI 0.50–1.07) produced the most favorable effects, followed by Chemo + ICI (HR 0.79, 95% CI 0.63–0.99).

Conclusion

The efficacy of Chemo + Bev + ICI is potentially high for improving PFS and OS in KRAS‐mutant NSCLC. In advanced NSCLC, the presence or absence of KRAS mutations may need to be considered when administering first‐line treatment.
Biological control of cat's claw creeper (Dolichandra unguis‐cati; Bignoniaceae): Current status and future prospects
Authors: Dhileepan Kunjithapatham , King Anthony M. , Taylor Dianne B. J. , Pollard Kathryn M. , Seier Marion K.
Published: August 2024

Cat's claw creeper (Dolichandra unguis‐cati), native to tropical South America, is a major invasive species and a target for biological control in Australia, South Africa and some South Pacific Island countries. Native range surveys in Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Venezuela have identified eight insects and four fungal pathogens as potential agents. Five leaf‐feeding insects a tortoise beetle Charidotis auroguttata, two tingids Carvalhotingis visenda and C. hollandi, a leaf‐tying moth Hypocosmia pyrochroma and a leaf‐mining beetle Hedwigiella jureceki, have been tested and all were released in South Africa. Four of these have become established but are not widespread and cause only limited damage. In Australia, only three of these, C. visenda, H. pyrochroma and H. jureceki were released, while C. auroguttata was not approved due to perceived non‐target risks. All agents have become widely established, except for H. pyrochroma which is restricted to riparian corridors in southeast Queensland. In South Africa, an accidentally introduced leaf‐spot pathogen, Neoramulariopsis unguis‐cati, causes necrotic lesions and premature abscission of leaves in cat's claw creeper infestations, resulting in widespread defoliation. Based on its impact and field‐host specificity in its native range and in South Africa, the pathogen has been prioritised for evaluation as a potential additional agent in Australia. The current priority is to seek approval for the introduction of this leaf‐spot pathogen into Australia. Future research should focus on the gall‐inducing rust Uropyxis rickiana and the seed‐feeding weevil Apteromechus notatus as prospective agents.
Kv7 channel opener retigabine reduces self‐administration of cocaine but not sucrose in rats
Authors: Urena Esteban S. , Diezel Cody C. , Serna Mauricio , Hala'ufia Grace , Majuta Lisa , Barber Kara R. , Vanderah Todd W. , Riegel Arthur C.
Published: August 2024

The increasing rates of drug misuse highlight the urgency of identifying improved therapeutics for treatment. Most drug‐seeking behaviours that can be modelled in rodents utilize the repeated intravenous self‐administration (SA) of drugs. Recent studies examining the mesolimbic pathway suggest that Kv7/KCNQ channels may contribute to the transition from recreational to chronic drug use. However, to date, all such studies used noncontingent, experimenter‐delivered drug model systems, and the extent to which this effect generalizes to rats trained to self‐administer drugs is not known. Here, we tested the ability of retigabine (ezogabine), a Kv7 channel opener, to regulate instrumental behaviour in male Sprague Dawley rats. We first validated the ability of retigabine to target experimenter‐delivered cocaine in a conditioned place preference (CPP) assay and found that retigabine reduced the acquisition of place preference. Next, we trained rats for cocaine‐SA under a fixed‐ratio or progressive‐ratio reinforcement schedule and found that retigabine pretreatment attenuated the SA of low to moderate doses of cocaine. This was not observed in parallel experiments, with rats self‐administering sucrose, a natural reward. Compared with sucrose‐SA, cocaine‐SA was associated with reductions in the expression of the Kv7.5 subunit in the nucleus accumbens, without alterations in Kv7.2 and Kv7.3. Therefore, these studies reveal a reward‐specific reduction in SA behaviour and support the notion that Kv7 is a potential therapeutic target for human psychiatric diseases with dysfunctional reward circuitry.