bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plasmodium falciparumSET10 is a histone H3 lysine K18 methyltransferase that participates in a chromatin modulation network crucial for intraerythrocytic development
Authors: Musabyimana Jean-Pierre , Musa Sherihan , Manti Janice , Distler Ute , Tenzer Stefan , Ngwa Che Julius , Pradel Gabriele
Published: July 2024

Lifecycle progression of the malaria parasitePlasmodium falciparumrequires precise tuning of gene expression including histone methylation. The histone methyltransferasePfSET10 was previously described as a H3K4 methyltransferase involved invargene regulation, making it a prominent antimalarial target. In this study, we investigate the role ofPfSET10 in the blood stages ofP. falciparumin more detail, using taggedPfSET10-knockout (KO) and -knockdown (KD) lines. We demonstrate a nuclear localization ofPfSET10 with peak protein levels in schizonts.PfSET10 deficiency results in reduced intraerythrocytic growth, but has no effect on gametocyte formation. When thePfSET10-KO line is screened for histone methylation variations, lack ofPfSET10 renders the parasites unable to mark H3K18me1, while no significant changes in the H3K4 methylation status are observed. Comparative transcriptomic profiling ofPfSET10-KO schizonts demonstrates the upregulation of transcripts particularly encoding proteins linked to erythrocyte invasion and multigene family proteins, suggesting a repressive function of the histone methylation mark. TurboID coupled with mass spectrometry further reveals an extensive nuclearPfSET10 interaction network with roles in transcriptional regulation, DNA replication and repair, chromatin remodeling and mRNA processing. Main interactors ofPfSET10 include ApiAP2 transcription factors, chromatin modulators likePfMORC andPfISWI, mediators of RNA polymerase II, and DNA replication licensing factors. The combined data pinpointPfSET10 as a histone H3 lysine K18 methyltransferase of theP. falciparumblood stages that regulates nucleic acid metabolic processes as part of a comprehensive chromatin modulation network.

Importance

The fine-tuned regulation of DNA replication and transcription is particularly crucial for the rapidly multiplying blood stages of malaria parasites and proteins involved in these processes represent important drug targets. This study demonstrates that contrary to previous reports the histone methyltransferasePfSET10 of the malaria parasitePlasmodium falciparummethylates histone 3 at lysine K18, a histone mark to date not well understood. Deficiency ofPfSET10 due to genetic knockout affects genes involved in intraerythrocytic development. Furthermore, in the nuclei of blood stage parasites,PfSET10 interacts with various protein complexes crucial for DNA replication, remodeling and repair, as well as for transcriptional regulation and mRNA processing. In summary, this study highlightsPfSET10 as a H3K18 methyltransferase with critical functions in chromatin maintenance during the development ofP. falciparumin red blood cells.
Crystal structure of polymeric bis(3-amino-1H-pyrazole)cadmium diiodide
Authors: Kuzevanova Iryna S. , Vynohradov Oleksandr S. , Pavlenko Vadim A. , Malinkin Sergey O. , Shova Sergiu , Fritsky Igor O. , Seredyuk Maksym
Published: July 2024

The reaction of cadmium iodide with 3-aminopyrazole (3-apz) in ethanolic solution leads to tautomerization of the ligand and the formation of crystals of the title compound, catena-poly[[diiodidocadmium(II)]-bis(μ-3-amino-1H-pyrazole)-κ2
N
2:N
3;κ2
N
3:N
2], [CdI2(C3H5N3)2]
n
or [CdI2(3-apz)2]
n
. Its asymmetric unit consists of a half of a Cd2+ cation, an iodide anion and a 3-apz molecule. The Cd2+ cations are coordinated by two iodide anions and two 3-apz ligands, generating trans-CdN4I2 octahedra, which are linked into chains by pairs of the bridging ligands. In the crystal, the ligand molecules and iodide anions of neighboring chains are linked through interchain hydrogen bonds into a di-periodic network. The intermolecular contacts were quantified using Hirshfeld surface analysis and two-dimensional fingerprint plots, revealing the relative quantitative contributions of the weak intermolecular contacts.
Influence of the swirl vanes in convergent-divergent nozzle on screech tones and mixing efficiency at subsonic and supersonic jet flow
Authors: Sekar Manigandan , Kengaiah Vijayaraja , T.R. Praveenkumar , P. Gunasekar
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of coaxial swirlers on acoustic emission and reduction of potential core length in jet engines.

Design/methodology/approach

The swirlers are introduced in the form of curved vanes with angles varied from 0° to 130°, corresponding to swirl numbers of 0–1.5. These swirlers are fixed in the annular chamber and tested at different nozzle pressure ratios of 2, 4 and 6.

Findings

The study finds that transonic tones exist for the nonswirl jet, creating an unfavorable effect. However, these screech tones are eliminated by introducing a swirl jet at the nozzle exit. Weak swirl shows a greater reduction in noise than strong swirl at subsonic conditions. In addition, the introduction of swirl jets at all pressure ratios significantly reduces jet noise and core length in supersonic conditions, mitigating the noise created by shockwaves and leading to screech tone-free jet mixing.

Originality/value

The paper provides valuable insights into the use of coaxial swirlers for noise reduction and core length reduction in jet engines, particularly in supersonic conditions.
Integrating design for lean six sigma (DFLSS) with the stage gate phases of the innovation management assessment framework (IMAF)
Authors: Lobo Stanislaus , Malaarachchi Dasun Nirmala , Samaranayake Premaratne , Elias Arun , Teh Pei-Lee
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of design for lean six sigma (DFLSS) on operational functions of the innovation management model by appraising an innovation management assessment framework.

Design/methodology/approach

An empirical approach for evaluating causal relationships among various constructs in the model phases that identify optimum pathways in achieving commercial success was adopted. A quantitative analysis of survey data were collected from large, medium and small organiations, including incubators in ANZ (Australia, New Zealand) and TMSV (Thailand, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Vietnam).

Findings

The structural equation modelling recursive path analysis results of the model provide empirical evidence and pathways through the various constructs considered in the model. All these pathways lead to delivering optimum commercialization success (CS). Furthermore, DFLSS is confirmed as an enabler and has direct one-to-one and indirect influence on all the operational function constructs of the model including commercial success.

Research limitations/implications

This study had a relatively small sample size of completed responses obtained from the population and a constrained ability to compare commercialization success (CS) between the two regions in the dataset. Future studies could be conducted on a global scale to increase responses.

Practical implications

The research findings enabled the development of important and practical guidelines for managers and innovation practitioners engaged in planning and management of innovation.

Originality/value

This research offers a holistic approach for integrating DFLSS with stage gate phases of innovation management assessment framework, supported by empirical evidence, to aid organizations in effectively managing the innovation process and achieving greater success in commercialization.
The role of organizational performance in sustaining competitive advantage through reverse logistics activities
Authors: Dabees Ahmed , Lisec Andrej , Elbarky Sahar , Barakat Mahmoud
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Reverse logistics (RL) activities are becoming crucial in today’s business environment because of their ability to enhance organizational capabilities to manage waste and resources effectively and efficiently as an approach for achieving sustainability. These capabilities can eventually create sustainable competitive advantage (SCA). Drawing on resource-based view (RBV), this study posits RL as a tool to develop capabilities gained from high performance (financial and nonfinancial) to enhance SCA.

Design/methodology/approach

Covariance-based structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to analyze 1,207 responses collected from manufacturing organizations operating in Egypt. Data were gathered through an online survey sent via email to manufacturing organizations operating in Egypt, particularly Cairo, Giza and Alexandria, as these governorates contain most business activities in Egypt and hence high a percentage of waste.

Findings

Results indicated that RL activities (recycling, remanufacturing, repair, recondition and disposal) can fully mediate the relationship between organizational performance (financial and nonfinancial) and SCA. However, the remanufacturing and recycling mediating roles between financial performance and SCA were not significant.

Research limitations/implications

Applying this research in a developing country (Egypt) will help extend RBV and incentivize organizations to apply RL activities, which can potentially solve several environmental issues such as decreasing waste.

Originality/value

Using the research variables in combination will help in filling the literature gap as previous research focused on RL and only organizational operational performance, where RL was used as an independent variable with no illustration of how its dimensions affect performance or its mediating role between performance and SCA.
Toward an analysis of employer engagement in the TVET system for 10 ASEAN member states
Authors: Moon Hanna , Choi Jihee
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to analyze employer’s engagement to the technical and vocational education and training (TVET) system among ASEAN member states by developing the analytical framework.

Design/methodology/approach

Data collection has been made through collaboration between the research team and the ASEAN regional consultants recruited for the project by using the survey questionnaire. ASEAN member states are analyzed based on the framework, which includes the existence of meeting, the existence of law or regulation, the degree of influence of meeting to TVET and the degree of influence of the employers to TVET.

Findings

Employers’ engagement can play its significant role as part of monitoring the skills demand of labor market. If the country can build feedback mechanism which circulates skills supply and demand on behalf of individual sectors, it will help reduce the skills gap.

Originality/value

The pace of economic development is and has been more rapid among 10 ASEAN member states. To analyze employer’s engagement to the TVET system among ASEAN member states, developing the analytical framework is imperative. Not only is there insufficient labor market information for each country, but there is also a lack of information linking the labor market and TVET system.
Examining the complexities of estate management practices in Central mosques: a case study of Kumasi Central mosque in Ghana
Authors: Mohammed Abubakar Sadiq , Mark Adolwine (ESQ.) William , Danlard Iddrisu
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To analyze the challenges and intricacies involved in managing the physical and administrative aspects of central mosques, with a specific focus on the Kumasi Central Mosque in Ghana. Through this case study, the paper aims to provide insights into the unique estate management practices and design a conceptual framework that incorporates efficient estate management practices for Ghana’s central mosques.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted a mixed-methods approach. Structured questionnaires were used to gather the data administered to the head of the development office, maintenance workers and mosque users. The data were analyzed using descriptive methods.

Findings

The overall findings of the study indicate that the estate management practices of the mosque are having difficulties financing maintenance. Other difficulties include the type of maintenance regime, the period of planned maintenance, the lack of an asset register, the absence of insurance policies and the causes of emergency maintenance.

Practical implications

The research provides valuable insights into the management of central mosques in Ghana and offers scalable practical recommendations such as adopting a planned maintenance regime, insuring mosque facilities and implementing comprehensive recording-keeping guidelines guided by policies.

Originality/value

The paper will assist stakeholders in comprehending the most practical approach to mosque estate management practices.
Structural transformation of the Indian states: heterogeneity among them in a ten-sector economy
Authors: T. Thasni , Gangopadhyay Kausik , Mondal Debasis
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to analyse the pattern of structural transformation and productivity growth of 15 major Indian states at a ten-sector level of disaggregation from 1983 to 2017.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis has been carried over in a ten-sector disaggregated level through construction of the labour and output data from various micro data sets.

Findings

The majority of Indian states have bypassed the stage of industrialization, wherein labour previously engaged in agriculture has transitioned directly into the modern services sector while skipping the manufacturing. There are no sign of convergence of sectoral productivities and the heterogeneity among Indian states persists throughout the time period. The growth performance of states are not positively associated with the movement of labour across sectors as measured by the structural transformation index (STI). This goes against the narrative that structural transformation help reduce the misallocation of factors. Despite an increase in educational attainment of workers across all sectors, more than one-third of agricultural workers still remain either illiterate or lack formal schooling. Among sectors, construction (C) and trade, hotels and restaurants (THR) have absorbed the majority of workers who have left agricultural jobs. Finance, insurance, real estate and business services (FIRB), electricity, gas and water supply (EGWS) and mining and quarrying (MQ) are the three sectors that have seen significant gains in labour productivity during the study period.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first attempt to analyse structural change and productivity growth in the Indian economy using Indian states as critical geographical marker. The results are new and add value to the literature.
Positive psychology in individual wellness: a thematic illustration of drama as a therapeutic framework in identity transformation
Authors: D’Souza Anil , Rani Jaya
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The language of participative theatre can be considered immersive in the treatment of its dialectics where participants engage fully with their dichotomies and value systems through physical and psychological exploratory processes as they commit themselves to transformation.

Design/methodology/approach

The use of drama as an intervention for challenging recurring mental models of oppressive narratives is used extensively in experiential psychotherapy and as a socio-psychological integrative tool. This experiential methodology allows for an organic development and expression of themes and motifs by encouraging a participant to develop a deeper awareness of how he/she interprets their identity and that of the community in which they function.

Findings

This paper aims to review the implications of applying drama-based interventions as positive psychotherapeutic devices to facilitate self-reflection and active-constructive responding in enabling a rendering of positive patterns of thought and purposeful movement towards emotional and physical well-being.

Practical implications

Research on the principles of positive psychology suggests that positive emotions lead to therapeutic change. Nurturing positive emotions which are immanent in spirituality, creativity and optimistic perseverance through autonomy and self-regulation enable individual potential to come to meaningful fruition.

Originality/value

The paper conceptualizes psychodrama as a framing technique in enabling reflexive action in identity transformation and well-being.
Barriers and facilitators to research data sharing: a lifecycle perspective
Authors: He Zilong , Fang Wei
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the multifaceted barriers and facilitators affecting research data sharing across the research data lifecycle. It aims to broaden the understanding of data sharing beyond the publication phase, emphasizing the continuous nature of data sharing from generation to reuse.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study integrates the Theory of Planned Behavior, the Technology Acceptance Model, and the Institutional Theory to hypothesize the influence of various factors on data sharing behaviors across the lifecycle. A questionnaire survey and structural equation modeling are utilized to empirically test these hypotheses.

Findings

This study identifies critical factors influencing data sharing at different lifecycle stages, including perceived behavioral control, perceived effort, journal and funding agency pressures, subjective norms, perceived risks, resource availability, and perceived benefits. The findings highlight the complex interplay of these factors and their varying impacts at different stages of data sharing.

Research limitations/implications

This study illuminates the dynamics of research data sharing, offering insights while recognizing its scope might not capture all disciplinary and cultural nuances. It highlights pathways for stakeholders to bolster data sharing, suggesting a collaborative push towards open science, reflecting on how strategic interventions can bridge existing gaps in practice.

Practical implications

This study offers actionable recommendations for policymakers, journals, and institutions to foster a more conducive environment for data sharing, emphasizing the need for support mechanisms at various lifecycle stages.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by offering a comprehensive model of the research data lifecycle, providing empirical evidence on the factors influencing data sharing across this continuum.
Thermal plasticity in protective wing pigmentation is modulated by genotype and food availability in an insect model of seasonal polyphenism
Authors: van Bergen E. , Atencio G. , Saastamoinen M. , Beldade P.
Published: July 2024

Phenotypic variation in natural populations results from complex interactions between organisms and their changing environments. The environment shapes both phenotypic frequencies (during adaptation) and organismal phenotypes (through phenotypic plasticity). Developmental plasticity, in particular, refers to the phenomenon whereby an organism's phenotype depends on the environmental conditions during development. It can match phenotype to ecological conditions and help organisms to cope with environmental heterogeneity, including differences between alternating seasons.

Experimental studies of developmental plasticity often focus on the impact of individual environmental cues and do not take explicit account of genetic variation. In contrast, natural environments are complex, comprising multiple variables with combined effects that are poorly understood and may vary among genotypes. We investigated the effects of multifactorial environments on the development of the seasonally plastic eyespots of Bicyclus anynana butterflies. Eyespot size depends on developmental temperature and is involved in alternative seasonal strategies for predator avoidance.

In nature, both temperature and food availability undergo seasonal fluctuations. However, our understanding of how thermal plasticity in eyespot size varies in response to food availability and across genotypes remains limited. To address this, we investigated the combined effects of temperature (T; two levels: 20°C and 27°C) and food availability (N; two levels: control and limited) during development. We examined their impact on wing and eyespot size in adult males and females from multiple genotypes (G; 28 families).

We found evidence of thermal and nutritional plasticity and temperature‐by‐nutrition interactions (significant T × N) on the size of eyespots in both sexes. Food limitation resulted in relatively smaller eyespots and tempered the effects of temperature. Additionally, we found differences among families for thermal plasticity (significant G × T effects), but not for nutritional plasticity (non‐significant G × N effects) nor for the combined effects of temperature and food limitation (non‐significant G × T × N effects).

Our results reveal the context dependence of thermal plasticity, with the slope of thermal reaction norms varying across genotypes and across nutritional environments. We discuss these results in the light of the ecological significance of pigmentation and the value of considering thermal plasticity in studies of the biological impact of climate change.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Divergent microbial phosphorous acquisition strategies between active layer and permafrost deposits on the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Wang Lu , Zhang Dianye , Kang Luyao , Li Ziliang , Yang Yuanhe
Published: July 2024

Phosphorous (P) is essential for mediating plant and microbial growth and thus could impact carbon (C) cycle in permafrost ecosystem. However, little is known about soil P availability and its biological acquisition strategies in permafrost environment.

Based on a large‐scale survey along a ~1000 km transect, combining with shotgun metagenomics, we provided the first attempt to explore soil microbial P acquisition strategies across the Tibetan alpine permafrost region.

Our results showed the widespread existence of microbial functional genes associated with inorganic P solubilization, organic P mineralization and transportation, reflecting divergent microbial P acquisition strategies in permafrost regions. Moreover, the higher gene abundance related to solubilization and mineralization as well as an increased ration of metagenomic assembled genomes (MAGs) carrying these genes were detected in the active layer, while the greater abundance of low‐affinity transporter gene (pit) and proportions of MAGs harbouring pit gene were observed in permafrost deposits, illustrating a stronger potential for P activation in active layer but an enhanced P transportation potential in permafrost deposits.

Our results highlight multiple P‐related acquisition strategies and their differences among various soil layers should be considered simultaneously to improve model prediction for the responses of biogeochemical cycles in permafrost ecosystems to climate change.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Comparison of disease‐modifying anti‐rheumatic drugs and hyperbaric oxygen therapy in the experimental model of rheumatoid arthritis in rats
Authors: Hallak Mohamad , Inal Ahmet , Baktir Mehmet Akif , Atasever Ayhan
Published: July 2024

In this study, we wanted to investigate the effectiveness of combining disease‐modifying anti‐rheumatic drugs (DMARD) with hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in reducing inflammation in a rheumatoid arthritis (RA) model using rats. We divided 56 male Sprague–Dawley rats into seven groups and induced RA using complete Freund's adjuvant. Some groups received HBOT, whereas others were given etanercept or leflunomide. We started the treatment on the 10th day after inducing RA and continued it for 18 days. To evaluate the effectiveness of the treatments, we measured paw swelling and used X‐rays to examine the joints before and after the treatment. We also analysed the levels of two inflammatory markers, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α and interleukin (IL)‐1β, using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Additionally, we conducted histological analysis and assessed the expressions of anti‐IL‐1β and anti‐TNF‐α antibodies. All the treatment groups showed a significant decrease in arthritis scores, paw swelling and levels of TNF‐α and IL‐1β. The X‐ray images revealed improvements in joint structure, and the histopathological analysis showed reduced inflammation and collagen abnormalities. Combining DMARD with HBOT had similar effects to individual therapies, suggesting a cost‐effective and potentially safer approach for improving outcomes in rats with RA.
Family therapy and the ecology of parallel universes
Authors: Larner Glenn
Published: July 2024

Astrophysicists and cosmologists seriously propose that our universe, with its three dimensions and local physical bylaws, is one of an infinite number of parallel universes. This paper discusses the relevance of these ideas for contemporary systemic family therapy, such as thinking about the therapist's positioning in relation to the family. Ideas such as the anthropic principle suggest each meeting of a therapist and family forms a unique systemic entity or singularity with its own universe of by‐laws peculiar to a location in time and space. We are like travellers between parallel family therapy universes where the therapist's epistemology, theory or model is less important than how therapists and clients position themselves towards each other. This ecological positioning encompasses contextual, emotional, cultural, ethical and spiritual belief systems.
The unique contribution of reading motivation to reading comprehension increases from Grades 2 to 4 in Chinese children
Authors: Li Yixun , Jia Kaiyue , Myat Kyaw Hay Mar , Li Hong , Yan Mengge
Published: July 2024

Background

To better understand the intricate science of reading development, both cognitive and affective factors must be taken into consideration. This developmental study aims to enrich the literature by exploring how reading motivation – an affective factor – contributes to reading comprehension in Chinese elementary schoolers, beyond well‐accepted cognitive‐based reading skills, such as decoding and vocabulary.

Methods

We used a cross‐sectional design with 420 native Mandarin‐Chinese‐speaking students (Grade 2: N = 95; Grade 3: N = 216; Grade 4: N = 109), with age‐appropriate materials to measure their decoding skills, vocabulary knowledge, reading motivation, and reading comprehension. Three sets of hierarchical regression analyses were run for the three grade samples to examine the unique contributions of reading motivation to reading comprehension while controlling children's demographic profiles, such as age and gender, and two cognitive‐based reading skills.

Results

We replicated previous findings: children's decoding and vocabulary are robust predictors of reading achievement across Grades 2 to 4. Importantly, reading motivation contributed uniquely to reading comprehension in all three grades and explained an increasing amount of the variances in reading comprehension from Grades 2 to 4. Intrinsic reading motivation was critical in Grade 3, while extrinsic reading motivation became important in Grade 4.

Conclusions

Taken together, our findings reveal the complexity of reading development and advance the existing cognitive‐based reading theories by including affective dimensions.
‘AI is not an Inventor’: Thaler v Comptroller of Patents, Designs and Trademarks and the Patentability of AI Inventions
Authors: Matulionyte Rita
Published: July 2024

The increasing use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies in inventive processes raises numerous patent law issues, including whether AI can be an inventor under law and who owns the AI‐generated inventions. The UK Supreme Court decision in Thaler v Comptroller of Patents, Designs and Trademarks has provided an ultimate answer to this question: AI cannot be an inventor for the purposes of patent law. This note argues, first, that while such a human‐centric approach to inventorship might discourage the use and development of AI technologies with autonomous invention capabilities, it will help retain an active human involvement in technologically supported inventive processes and continuously foster human ingenuity. Second, despite the Court focusing on what patent law is and not on what the law should be, the decision will be influential in the ongoing discussions on the future of patent law and will make it more difficult to expand patent law to incorporate non‐human inventors. Third, the decision has opened, or revealed, the gaps in patent law that the emergence of AI technologies have created and for which new legal solutions will be needed, especially with relation to the ownership of AI‐assisted inventions and the validation of inventorship claims.
Should the CEO be the “face” of crisis response? Examining types of visuals on social media in corporate crisis communication
Authors: Yook Bora , Stacks Don W.
Published: July 2024

This study aims to suggest visual strategies for social media response in corporate crisis communication. Situational Crisis Communication Theory (SCCT) and Associative Network Theory of Memory (ANT) are applied to investigate the types of visuals (photos) that companies may utilize in Facebook messages. A 3 (message: excuse vs. attack accuser vs. apology) × 4 (photo: no‐image vs. product vs. stereotypical CEO vs. CEO reflecting corporate character) between‐subject design online experiment was conducted in the United States (N = 296). The results confirmed the effect of message strategies on crisis communication outcomes such as perceived responsibility, anger, and reputation. Preliminary interaction effects showed that the stereotypical CEO image (e.g., wearing a suit at a podium in a conference setting) was effective on reputation in two message strategies: an excuse in an accidental cluster crisis and an apology in a preventable cluster crisis. Based on these findings, the current study offers theoretical and practical implications for corporate crisis communication. Details are discussed in the study.
Caesarean section and anal incontinence in women after obstetric anal sphincter injury: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Carter Emily , Hall Rebecca , Ajoku Kelechi , Myers Jenny , Kearney Rohna
Published: July 2024

Background

Approximately 50% women who give birth after obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI) develop anal incontinence (AI) over their lifetime.

Objective

To evaluate current evidence for a protective benefit of planned caesarean section (CS) to prevent AI after OASI.

Search Strategy

MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase 1974–2024, CINAHL and Cochrane to 7 February 2024 (PROSPERO CRD42022372442).

Selection Criteria

All studies reporting outcomes after OASI and a subsequent birth, by any mode.

Data Collection and Analysis

Eighty‐six of 2646 screened studies met inclusion criteria, with nine studies suitable to meta‐analyse the primary outcome of ‘adjusted AI’ after OASI and subsequent birth. Subgroups: short‐term AI, long‐term AI, AI in asymptomatic women. Secondary outcomes: total AI, quality of life, satisfaction/regret, solid/liquid/flatal incontinence, faecal urgency, AI in women with and without subsequent birth, change in AI pre‐ to post‐ subsequent birth.

Main Results

There was no evidence of a difference in adjusted AI after subsequent vaginal birth compared with CS after OASI across all time periods (OR = 0.92, 95% CI 0.72–1.20; 9 studies, 2104 participants, I2 = 0% p = 0.58), for subgroup analyses or secondary outcomes. There was no evidence of a difference in AI in women with or without subsequent birth (OR = 1.00 95% CI 0.65–1.54; 10 studies, 970 participants, I2 = 35% p = 0.99), or pre‐ to post‐ subsequent birth (OR = 0.79 95% CI 0.51–1.25; 13 studies, 5496 participants, I2 = 73% p = 0.31).

Conclusions

Due to low evidence quality, we are unable to determine whether planned caesarean is protective against AI after OASI. Higher quality evidence is required to guide personalised decision‐making for asymptomatic women and to determine the effect of subsequent birth mode on long‐term AI outcomes.
Natural resource endowment and urban green total factor productivity: “Resource gospel” or “resource curse”?
Authors: Yang Shubo , Jahanger Atif , Usman Muhammad
Published: July 2024

This study constructs an economic growth model that includes natural resource endowments to theoretically explore the paradox of “resource gospel” and “resource curse.” Based on the theoretical analysis, the influence of natural resources on green total factor productivity is analyzed empirically through an econometric model using Chinese urban panel data from 2010 to 2019. The theoretical analysis shows that the impact of natural resource endowment on green total factor productivity is indecisive. The empirical results show that natural resource endowments significantly lessen urban green total factor efficiency, and the results remain robust after addressing for endogeneity issues and robustness tests. However, this effect is significantly heterogeneous depending on the city level and science and education level; for example, the “resource curse” effect is more pronounced in non‐central cities and cities with average education and science level. Simultaneously, the mechanism analysis shows that natural resource endowment reduces urban total factor productivity by inhibiting innovation and introducing choices in the technological progress approach. Therefore, the research findings bring empirical evidence to promote reforms in natural resource allocation and provide theoretical support for encouraging green total factor productivity in resource‐based cities.
The impacts of thermocouple insulation failure on the accuracy of temperature measurement data in forensic fire‐death scenarios—Part I: Physical disintegration
Authors: Silveira David , Kendell Ashley , Shook Beth
Published: July 2024

Thermocouples are utilized to monitor a wide range of temperatures in industrial applications. They are also used in both fire and forensic science research to measure temperatures of fires and of materials exposed to fire. Taking accurate temperature measurements during forensic fire‐death scenarios is very difficult due to direct fire exposure to thermocouples, shrinkage and destruction of tissues, and movements from pyre collapse and pugilistic posturing of human donors. This two‐part study investigates the impacts on the accuracy of temperature data if the selected thermocouples are unable to withstand fire exposure. Part I (this article) provides an overview of thermocouple theory along with evidence of the physical deterioration that occurs when glass fiber‐insulated thermocouple wires are overheated by exposure to fire‐level temperatures in a muffle furnace. This study verified that insulation overheating causes embrittlement and disintegration, which can cause the indicated temperature to reflect a new location of measurement located far away from the original measuring junction at the thermocouple tip. Part II will discuss the measurement errors that occurred due to low electrical resistance of insulation when three different thermocouple models were passed through fire‐level temperatures to measure an ice bath at a constant temperature of 0°C.
An update on the endocrine manifestations of antiphospholipid syndrome
Authors: El Hasbani Georges , Uthman Imad
Published: July 2024

Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS), characterized by hypercoagulability and pregnancy morbidity, poses a significant clinical challenge when involving organ systems, such as the endocrine system. APS can directly and indirectly influence the anterior and posterior lobes of the pituitary gland. The thyroid gland exhibits involvement, especially in patients with positive anticardiolipin antibodies, yet the clinical significance of the relationship with APS remains elusive. The pancreas, often overlooked, manifests in diverse ways, from pancreatitis to implications in diabetes. Adrenal insufficiency emerges as a common endocrine manifestation of APS, with adrenal hemorrhage or infarction being a presenting manifestation. Adrenal gland involvement has also been reported in the context of catastrophic APS. Pregnancy complications and infertility might be effects of APS on the female ovaries, while testicular torsion and decreased sperm concentration and total sperm count have been reported as rare effects of APS on male testes.
Systematic review and meta‐analyses of cytisine to support tobacco cessation
Authors: Puljević Cheneal , Stjepanović Daniel , Meciar Isabel , Kang Heewon , Chan Gary , Morphett Kylie , Bendotti Hollie , Kunwar Garry , Gartner Coral
Published: July 2024

Background and Aims

Cytisine (also known as cytisinicline) is a low‐cost partial agonist of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors used to assist tobacco cessation. We aimed to review the effectiveness of cytisine for tobacco cessation and the effects of dose and co‐use of behavioural or other pharmacological interventions on cessation outcomes.

Methods

We searched seven databases, Google Scholar, and reference lists of included publications for randomised controlled trials investigating use of cytisine as a tobacco cessation aid. Studies were eligible if participants were ≥15 years old and used tobacco upon study enrolment. We conducted four random effects meta‐analyses and sensitivity analyses with fixed effects models. We used the Cochrane risk‐of‐bias tool for randomised trials version 2 to assess risk of bias in included studies, with adjustments recommended by the Cochrane Tobacco Addiction Group.

Results

Participants using cytisine were significantly more likely to quit tobacco than participants who received placebo/no intervention/usual care (risk ratio [RR] = 2.65, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.50–4.67, 6 trials, 5194 participants) or nicotine replacement therapy (RR = 1.36, 95% CI = 1.06–1.73, p = 0.0152, 2 trials, 1511 participants). The difference in cessation rates among participants receiving cytisine versus varenicline was not statistically significant (RR = 0.96, 95% CI 0.63–1.45, P = 0.8464, 3 trials, 2508 participants). Two trials examined longer versus shorter treatment duration, finding higher abstinence rates with longer treatment (RR = 1.29, 95% CI = 1.02–1.63, 2 trials, 1009 participants). The differences in the number of adverse events reported by participants who received cytisine versus placebo (RR = 1.19, 95% CI = 0.99–1.41, P = 0.0624; 6 trials; 4578 participants) or cytisine versus varenicline (RR = 1.37, 95% CI = 0.57–3.33, P = 0.4835; 2 trials; 1345 participants) were not statistically significant. Most adverse events were mild (e.g. abnormal dreams, nausea, headaches).

Conclusions

Cytisine is an effective aid for tobacco cessation and appears to be more effective for tobacco cessation than placebo, no intervention, usual care and nicotine replacement therapy.
Tracking ecosystem decline in an uncertain and changing alpine landscape
Authors: Tierney D. A.
Published: July 2024

This study investigated regional and site level diversity for alpine and subalpine systems. The aim was to assess whether differing analytical methods could track diversity through time. The study was undertaken within Kosciusko National Park in south‐eastern Australia (6900 km2) which encompasses most of the alpine zone (~2500 km2 or 48% of its occurrence on mainland Australia). Multivariate ordination, species richness and the relationship of diversity to landscape patterns were assessed and considered in relation to changes predicted to impinge upon these systems over coming decades. Species richness had limited capacity to detect predicted changes; however, ordination based on floristic patterns may have more capacity to detect change if adequate replication is applied. Complex patterns across landscapes and at the site level contributed to these analytical challenges. Species richness is commonly used to assess ecosystem status and to provide benchmark values, but it had very limited capacity to do so in the assessed alpine and subalpine ecosystems, including the most threatened. Government agencies often rely heavily on species richness to assess ecosystem change and this urgently needs re‐evaluation.
Anatomical description of a new ligamentous supporting structure of the canine cranial cervical spinal cord
Authors: Nagendran Aran , Pumarola Marti , Aige‐Gil Vicente
Published: July 2024

The cranial cervical vertebral column carries a unique range of mobility with the addition of dorsal and ventral flexion and rotation. The denticulate ligaments provides support and protection of the spinal cord, but little is known of the adaption of this apparatus at the cranial cervical portion of the spinal cord. We present in this publication a new pair of ligaments in dogs that supports the spinal cord inside the vertebral canal at the level of the C1‐C2 spinal segments.
Scale‐based landmark for internal organs assessments of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) during digital radiography and ultrasonography imaging
Authors: Anfara Fathan Rahmadya , Rahmiati Dwi Utari , Ulum Mokhamad Fakhrul
Published: July 2024

Medical imaging techniques such as digital radiography and ultrasonography are non‐invasive and provide precise results for examining internal organs and structures within fish. Their effectiveness can be further enhanced by using body parts like scales as markers for the organs beneath them. This study utilized the number of scales as landmarks in digital radiography and ultrasonography to non‐invasively evaluate the muscles, bones, and images of internal and reproductive organs of common carp (Cyprinus carpio). Digital radiography was performed in the dorsoventral and lateral views of the fish, whereas ultrasonography was conducted in longitudinal and transverse views on sequence scale numbers with brightness and colour Doppler‐modes. Digital radiography of the common carp revealed the whole‐body morphology, including the bony parts from the head, pectoral fins, dorsal fins, pelvic fins, anal fins, and vertebrae to the tail that appeared radiopaque. Internal organs were also observed, with the swim bladder and heart appeared radiolucent, while the intestines, liver, testes, and ovaries appeared radiopaque. Ultrasonography in brightness mode displayed the digestive organs, reproductive organs, and muscle thickness. Additionally, colour Doppler mode demonstrated blood flow within the heart's ventricle.
The impact of feminism‐related public discussions on the promotion of female senior executives: evidence from China
Authors: Liu Jing
Published: July 2024

Using panel data of the A‐share listed firms in China from 2015 to 2021, this article studies the impact of feminism‐related public discussions on the promotion of female senior executives. Empirical results find that feminism‐related public discussion can push firms to increase the ratio of female senior executives. Further research finds that the effect is more significant in firms whose chairmen are male, firms that are not state‐owned enterprises, and firms whose employees are better educated. In addition, economic consequences tests show that when the public pays more attention to feminism, a high ratio of female senior executives can contribute to improving firm value. The findings in this article can be conducive to understanding the influence of public opinion on female career development and firms' decision‐making.
Clinical trial: An open‐label, randomised trial of different re‐start strategies after treatment withdrawal in HBeAg negative chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Johannessen Asgeir , Reikvam Dag Henrik , Aleman Soo , Berhe Nega , Weis Nina , Desalegn Hailemichael , Stenstad Tore , Heggelund Lars , Samuelsen Ellen , Karlsen Lars Normann , Lindahl Karin , Pettersen Frank Olav , Iversen Jonas , Kleppa Elisabeth , Bollerup Signe , Winckelmann Anni Assing , Brugger‐Synnes Pascal , Simonsen Hans Erling , Svendsen Jan , Kran Anne‐Marte Bakken , Holmberg Marte , Olsen Inge Christoffer , Rueegg Corina Silvia , Dalgard Olav
Published: July 2024

Background

Stopping nucleos(t)ide analogue (NA) therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) may trigger a beneficial immune response leading to HBsAg loss, but clinical trials on re‐start strategies are lacking.

Aim

To assess whether it is beneficial to undergo a prolonged flare after NA cessation.

Methods

One‐hundred‐and‐twenty‐seven patients with HBeAg negative, non‐cirrhotic CHB with at least 24 months of viral suppression on NA therapy were included. All study participants stopped antiviral therapy and were randomised to either low‐threshold (ALT > 80 U/L and HBV DNA > 2000 IU/mL) or high‐threshold (ALT > 100 U/L for >4 months, or ALT > 400 U/L for >2 months) for the re‐start of therapy. The primary endpoint was HBsAg loss within 36 months of stopping antiviral treatment. The primary analysis was based on intention‐to‐treat allocation with last observation carried forward.

Results

There was a numerical but not statistically significant difference in HBsAg loss between the low‐threshold (3 of 64; 4.7%) and the high‐threshold (8 of 63; 12.7%) group (risk difference: 8.0%, 95% CI: −2.3 to 19.6, p = 0.123). None of the patients with end‐of‐treatment HBsAg > 1000 IU/mL achieved HBsAg loss; among those with end‐of‐treatment HBsAg < 1000 IU/mL, 8 of 15 (53.3%) achieved HBsAg loss in the high‐threshold group compared to 3 of 26 (11.5%) in the low‐threshold group.

Conclusions

We could not confirm our hypothesis that a higher threshold for restart of therapy after NA withdrawal improves the likelihood of HBsAg loss within 36 months in patients with HBeAg negative CHB. Further studies including only patients with HBsAg level <1000 IU/mL and/or larger sample size and longer follow‐up duration are recommended.
Editorial: Disorders of gut‐brain interaction—Don't forget the older person
Authors: Black Christopher J.
Published: July 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Sperber et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18103
Development of a group‐based behaviour change intervention for people with severe obesity informed by the social identity approach to health
Authors: Moghadam Shokraneh , Hollands Laura , Calitri Raff , Swancutt Dawn , Lloyd Jenny , Hawkins Lily , Sheaff Rod , Dean Sarah , Perry Steve , Watkins Ross , Pinkney Jonathan , Tarrant Mark ,   the PROGROUP Team
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Interventions to support behaviour change in people living with chronic health conditions increasingly use patient groups as the mode of delivery, but these are often designed without consideration of the group processes that can shape intervention outcomes. This article outlines a new approach to designing group‐based behaviour change interventions that prioritizes recipients' shared social identity as group members in facilitating the adoption of established behaviour change techniques (BCTs). The approach is illustrated through an example drawn from research focused on people living with severe obesity.

Methods

A prioritization process was undertaken in collaboration with stakeholders, including behaviour change experts, clinicians, and a former patient to develop an evidence‐based, group intervention informed by the social identity approach to health. Three phases of development are reported: (1) identification of the health problem; (2) delineation of intervention mechanisms and operationalization of BCTs for group delivery and (3) intervention manualization. The fourth phase, intervention testing and optimization, is reported elsewhere.

Results

A group‐based behaviour change intervention was developed, consisting of 12 group sessions and 3 one‐to‐one consultations. The intervention aimed to support the development of shared social identity among recipients, alongside the delivery of evidence‐based BCTs, to improve the likelihood of successful intervention and health outcomes among people living with severe obesity.

Conclusions

A manualized intervention, informed by the social identity approach to health, was systematically designed with input from stakeholders. The development approach employed can inform the design of behavioural interventions in other health contexts where group‐based delivery is planned.