bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prescribing Characteristics of Octreotide Immediate-Release and Long-Acting Release in Patients with Neuroendocrine Tumors
Authors: Cheng Yue , Anthony Lowell , Delcher Chris , Moga Daniela C , Chauhan Aman , Huang Bin , Adams Val
Published: March 2023

Background

Treatment recommendations for patients with neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) include the use of octreotide long-acting release (LAR) for long-term therapy and immediate-release (IR) as rescue therapy to control the breakthrough symptoms of carcinoid syndrome (CS). High doses of LAR are commonly used in clinical practice. This study aimed to evaluate the real-world utilization of LAR and preceding IR use at the prescription and patient levels.

Methods

We used an administrative claims database (2009-2018) containing privately insured enrollees. We calculated the normalized LAR dose from pharmacy claims and the initial mean IR daily dose at the prescription level. At the patient level, we conducted a retrospective cohort study that included patients continuously enrolled with ≥1 pharmacy claim of LAR and evaluated the frequency and the clinical reason for dose escalation of LAR. The definition of the above-label maximum dose of LAR was ≥30 mg/4 weeks.

Results

Nineteen percent of LAR prescriptions had an above-label maximum dose. Only 7% of LAR prescriptions had preceding IR use. There were 386 patients with NETs or CS vs. 570 with an unknown diagnosis. Comparing patients with NETs or CS to those with an unknown diagnosis, 22.3% vs. 11.0 % experienced dose escalations and 29.0% vs. 26.6% had IR use before dose escalation, respectively. LAR dose escalation occurred in 50.9% vs. 39.2% for symptom control, 12.3% vs. 7.1% for tumor progression control, and 16.6% vs. 6.0% for both reasons in NETs/CS and unknown groups, respectively.

Conclusion

Octreotide LAR dosing above the label-maximum dose is common and IR rescue dosing appears to be underutilized.
The trans-zeatin-type side-chain modification of cytokinins controls rice growth
Authors: Kiba Takatoshi , Mizutani Kahori , Nakahara Aimi , Takebayashi Yumiko , Kojima Mikiko , Hobo Tokunori , Osakabe Yuriko , Osakabe Keishi , Sakakibara Hitoshi
Published: March 2023

Cytokinins (CKs), a class of phytohormones with vital roles in growth and development, occur naturally with various side-chain structures, including N6-(Δ2-isopentenyl)adenine-, cis-zeatin- and trans-zeatin (tZ)-types. Recent studies in the model dicot plant Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) have demonstrated that tZ-type CKs are biosynthesized via cytochrome P450 monooxygenase (P450) CYP735A and have a specific function in shoot growth promotion. Although the function of some of these CKs has been demonstrated in a few dicotyledonous plant species, the importance of these variations and their biosynthetic mechanism and function in monocots and in plants with distinctive side-chain profiles other than Arabidopsis, such as rice (Oryza sativa), remain elusive. In this study, we characterized CYP735A3 and CYP735A4 to investigate the role of tZ-type CKs in rice. Complementation test of the Arabidopsis CYP735A-deficient mutant and CK profiling of loss-of-function rice mutant cyp735a3 cyp735a4 demonstrated that CYP735A3 and CYP735A4 encode P450s required for tZ-type side-chain modification in rice. CYP735As are expressed in both roots and shoots. The cyp735a3 cyp735a4 mutants exhibited growth retardation concomitant with reduction in CK activity in both roots and shoots, indicating that tZ-type CKs function in growth promotion of both organs. Expression analysis revealed that tZ-type CK biosynthesis is negatively regulated by auxin, abscisic acid, and CK and positively by dual nitrogen nutrient signals, namely glutamine-related and nitrate-specific signals. These results suggest that tZ-type CKs control the growth of both roots and shoots in response to internal and environmental cues in rice.
Oral phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors and male reproductive potential: an overview
Authors: Mostafa Taymour , Alghobary Moheiddin , Hanafy Noha S , Abosief Ahmed
Published: March 2023

Background

Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5Is), due to their efficacy and tolerable profile for more than 2 decades,are considered a good addition to the available treatments in patients with erectile dysfunction (ED).

Aim

We sought to assess the possible influence of oral PDE5Is on male human reproduction.

Methods

A literature review was performed in several databases, including the PubMed/Medline database, Scopus, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Academic Search Complete, and Egyptian Knowledge Bank databases. The keywords/search terms were “PDE5Is,” “sildenafil,” “vardenafil,” “tadalafil,” or “avanafil,” combining and crossing them with “male infertility,” “semen,” “reproductive hormones,” or “sperm.”

Results

Overall, 101 articles were selected. After removal of duplicates and animal studies, 75 articles were finally subjected to review covering the different items related to male human reproduction, including effects of PDE5Is on different parameters of semen or reproductive hormones, as uses of PDE5Is in cases related to distinctive male factor infertility, such as ED, temporary ED, or ejaculatory failure alongside assisted reproduction (AR) procedures, and ejaculatory dysfunction in spinal cord lesions. We found 26 articles that addressed the direct effects of PDE5Is on semen and reproductive hormonal profiles, 16 in vivo studies and 10 in vitro studies. Oral PDE5Is have in general a stimulatory effect on sperm motility, while other semen parameters and reproductive hormonal profiles showed varied outcomes. Such effects are more pronounced with a long-term daily regimen than with an on-demand regimen. However, it seems that the best-controlled studies suggested no change in the sperm quality of male reproductive potential.

Conclusion

Oral PDE5Is have in general stimulatory effects on sperm motility, while other semen parameters and hormone profiles showed varied results. In addition, oral PDE5Is have played a useful role in conditions related to distinctive male factor infertility, such as ED, temporary ED, ejaculatory failure alongside AR, and ejaculatory dysfunction in spinal cord lesions.
Reducing Central Line Utilization by Peripherally Infusing Vasopressors
Authors: Coyer Ben , Carlucci Melissa
Published: March 2023

Background

Central line–associated bloodstream infection is a preventable contributor to excess death and excess cost in the health care system. Vasopressor infusion is one of the primary reasons for central line placement. In the medical intensive care unit (MICU) at an academic medical center, there was no standard practice for peripheral versus central infusion of vasopressors.

Objective

The objective of this quality improvement project was to implement an evidence-based, nurse-driven protocol to guide the peripheral infusion of vasopressors. The goal was to reduce central line utilization by 10%.

Methods

Education on the protocol was provided to the MICU nurses, MICU residents, and crisis nurses, followed by a 16-week implementation period. Nursing staff were also surveyed preimplementation and postimplementation of the protocol.

Results

Central line utilization was reduced by 37.9%, and there were no central line–associated bloodstream infections recorded during project implementation. Most of the nursing staff indicated that use of the protocol increased their confidence in administering vasopressors without a central line. No significant extravasation events occurred.

Discussion

Although a causal link between implementation of this protocol and reduction of central line utilization cannot be established, the reduction is clinically meaningful given the known risks of central lines. Increased nursing staff confidence also provides support for continued use of the protocol.

Conclusion

A nurse-driven protocol to guide the peripheral infusion of vasopressors can be effectively implemented into nursing practice.
Developing a Decision Pathway for Family Presence During Resuscitation
Authors: Tennyson Carolina Dimsdale , Oliver John P. , Jooste Karen Roussel
Published: March 2023

Background

The standard of care for family presence during resuscitation (FPDR) is evolving, and leading organizations collectively recommend establishing institutional policy for its practice. Although FPDR is supported at this single institution, the process was not standardized.

Methods

An interprofessional group authored a decision pathway to standardize the care of families during inpatient code blue events at one institution. The pathway was reviewed and applied in code blue simulation events to highlight the role of the family facilitator and the importance of interprofessional teamwork skills.

Results

The decision pathway is a patient-centered algorithm that promotes safety and family autonomy. Pathway recommendations are shaped by current literature, expert consensus, and existing institutional regulations. An on-call chaplain responds to all code blue events as the family facilitator and conducts assessments and decision making per the pathway. Clinical considerations include patient prioritization, family safety, sterility, and team consensus. One year after implementation, staff felt that it positively affected patient and family care. The frequency of inpatient FPDR did not increase after implementation.

Conclusion

As a result of the decision pathway implementation, FPDR is consistently a safe and coordinated option for patients' family members.
Experience of Health Professionals in Caring for Patients With Chest Trauma
Authors: Al-Jaafreh Ali , Saifan Ahmad Rajeh , Mosleh Sultan M. , Al-Yateem Nabeel , Al-Momani Muwafaq Mohammad
Published: March 2023

Background

The variation in the implementation of chest trauma (CT) management's guidelines led to inconsistent and mixed experiences toward CT management by the health care team. Moreover, there is a scarcity of studies exploring factors that enhance CT management experiences worldwide and in Jordan.

Objectives

The aims of this study were (1) to explore emergency health professionals' attitudes and experiences toward CT management and (2) to understand factors that affect the care for patients with CTs among emergency health professionals.

Methods

A qualitative exploratory approach was adopted in this study. Individual, semistructured, face-to-face interviews were conducted with 30 emergency health professionals (physicians, nurses, and paramedics) from government emergency departments, military, private hospitals, and paramedics from the Civil Defense in Jordan.

Results

The results showed that emergency health professionals had negative attitudes toward caring for patients with CTs due to a lack of knowledge and clarity in their job description and duties assigned to them. Moreover, some organizational and training factors were discussed for their impact on the attitudes of emergency health professionals toward caring for patients with CTs.

Conclusions

Lack of knowledge, absence of clear guidelines and job descriptions for dealing with traumas, and lack of continuous training on caring for patients with CTs were the most common reasons for negative attitudes. These findings can assist stakeholders, managers, and organizational leaders in understanding health care challenges and provoke a more focused strategic plan to diagnose and treat patients with CT.
Prevalence and awareness of Hepatitis B virus infection in the United States: January 2017 - March 2020
Authors: Bixler Danae , Barker Laurie , Lewis Karon , Peretz Lauren , Teshale Eyasu
Published: March 2023

Background:

Prevalence and awareness of HBV infection are important national indicators of progress toward hepatitis B elimination.

Methods:

National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey participants were examined for laboratory evidence of HBV infection (positive antibody to HBcAg and HBsAg), and interviewed to determine awareness of HBV infection. Estimates of HBV infection prevalence and awareness were calculated for the US population.

Findings:

Among National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey participants aged 6 years and older evaluated from January 2017 through March 2020, an estimated 0.2% had HBV infection; of these 50% were aware of their infection.
Renal transplantation: the last iteration of the rest of the world
Authors: Bradbrook Keighly , Gauntt Katrina , Klassen David
Published: March 2023

Purpose of review

Renal transplantation systems across the world aim to achieve an optimal balance between fair access to deceased donor kidney transplants (equity) and efficient use of organs (utility). Kidney allocation systems are measured across a host of metrics, and there is no single agreed upon definition of success, which looks different for each system depending on the desired balance between equity and utility. This article evaluates the United States renal transplantation system's efforts to balance equity and utility while drawing comparisons to other national systems.

Recent findings

The United States renal transplantation system is expected to undergo major changes with the transition to a continuous distribution framework. The continuous distribution framework removes geographic boundaries and takes a flexible and transparent approach to balancing equity and utility. The framework leverages transplant professionals and community members input with mathematical optimization strategies to inform weighting of patient factors to allocate deceased donor kidneys.

The United States’ proposed continuous allocation framework lays the groundwork for a system allowing transparent balancing of equity and utility. This system approach addresses issues common to those in many other countries.
The use of a laminar spreader for the reduction of extra-articular distal radius fractures: A technical trick
Authors: Taha Tarek A.
Published: March 2023

Extra-articular distal radius fractures are often accompanied with shortening, loss of radial height, and radial displacement of the articular segment relative to the shaft of the radius, all seen in the coronal plane. Reduction can be somewhat challenging when reliance on traction and ligamentotaxis fails, especially in subacute or osteoporotic fractures. In this technical report, we describe a technique where application of a laminar spreader between the radius and the ulna in the metaphyseal region can easily reduce the fracture and help attain anatomic alignment in the coronal plane. An acute and a subacute fracture are shown for illustration of the technique.
Treatment of an Adolescent Female With Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis–Related Cirrhosis With Liraglutide
Authors: Yuen Christina , Yu Tiffany , French Samuel , Marcus Elizabeth A. , Yeh Joanna , Chiu Harvey
Published: March 2023

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is the most common chronic liver disease in children in the United States and encompasses a range of disease from steatosis to cirrhosis. The mainstay of treatment is lifestyle modifications like increased physical activity and healthier eating habits. These are sometimes augmented with medications or surgery for weight loss. We present a patient with biopsy-proven nonalcoholic steatohepatitis-related cirrhosis that did not improve with suboptimal lifestyle changes. This patient’s disease progression reversed after liraglutide treatment, as evidenced by improved imaging and laboratory results, despite no significant improvement in her body mass index percentile. This case demonstrates the importance of considering liraglutide for patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and suggests a hepatic effect independent of effects related to weight loss.
Personalizing digital pain management with adapted machine learning approach
Authors: Fundoiano-Hershcovitz Yifat , Pollak Keren , Goldstein Pavel
Published: March 2023

Introduction:

Digital therapeutics (DT) emerged and has been expanding rapidly for pain management. However, the efficacy of such approaches demonstrates substantial heterogeneity. Machine learning (ML) approaches provide a great opportunity for personalizing the efficacy of DT. However, the ML model accuracy is mainly associated with reduced clinical interpretability. Moreover, classical ML models are not adapted for the longitudinal nature of the DT follow-up data, which may also include nonlinear fluctuations.

Objectives:

This study presents an analytical framework for personalized pain management using piecewise mixed-effects model trees, considering the data dependencies, nonlinear trajectories, and boosting model interpretability.

Methods:

We demonstrated the implementation of the model with posture biofeedback training data of 3610 users collected during 8 weeks. The users reported their pain levels and posture quality. We developed personalized models for nonlinear time-related fluctuations of pain levels, posture quality, and weekly training duration using age, gender, and body mass index as potential moderating factors.

Results:

Pain levels and posture quality demonstrated strong improvement during the first 3 weeks of the training, followed by a sustained pattern. The age of the users moderated the time fluctuations in pain levels, whereas age and gender interactively moderated the trajectories in the posture quality. Train duration increased during the first 3 weeks only for older users, whereas all the users decreased the training duration during the next 5 weeks.

Conclusions:

This analytical framework offers an opportunity for investigating the personalized efficacy of digital therapeutics for pain management, taking into account users' characteristics and boosting interpretability and can benefit from including more users' characteristics.
Assessing muscle strength of persons with transfemoral amputation with and without a prosthesis: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Bevacqua Nicolas , Dell Elce Gabriela , Intelangelo Leonardo
Published: March 2023

Background:

There is a gap in the research about the influence of wearing or not wearing a prosthesis for muscle strength assessment in transfemoral amputees (TFA) and how it is associated with functional mobility.

Objective(s):

The aim of this study was to compare the muscle isometric strength of the residual limb with and without the prosthesis in people with TFA and to analyze associations between muscle strength and functional mobility.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Methods:

20 subjects with TFA were included. A handheld dynamometer was used for the assessment of residual limb muscle strength. Functional mobility was assessed with the Timed Up and Go test. The Wilcoxon rank sum test with the rank biserial correlation effect size were used.

Results:

There were statistically significant differences when testing isometric strength of the residual limb with and without the prosthesis (flexion [p = 0.007], extension [p < 0.001], and abduction [p = 0.003]). There was association between functional mobility and flexion and abduction strength with the prosthesis (p = 0.005, p = 0.01).

Conclusions:

Measurements of muscle strength of the residual limb were different when assessed with and without the prosthesis. Isometric strength of the residual limb in abduction and flexion using the prosthesis were correlated with functional mobility.
Younger and Rural Children are More Likely to be Hospitalized for SARS-CoV-2 Infections
Authors: Cantu Rebecca M. , Sanders Sara C. , Turner Grace A. , Snowden Jessica N. , Ingold Ashton , Hartzell Susanna , House Suzanne , Frederick Dana , Chalwadi Uday K. , Siegel Eric R. , Kennedy Joshua L.
Published: March 2023

Purpose

To identify characteristics of SARS-CoV-2 infection that are associated with hospitalization in children initially evaluated in a Pediatric Emergency Department (ED).

Methods

We identified cases of SARS-CoV-2 positive patients seen in the Arkansas Children’s Hospital (ACH) ED or hospitalized between May 27, 2020, and April 28, 2022 using ICD-10 codes within the Pediatric Hospital Information System (PHIS) Database. We compared infection waves for differences in patient characteristics, and used logistic regressions to examine which characteristics led to a higher chance of hospitalization.

Findings

We included 681 pre-Delta cases, 673 Delta cases, and 970 Omicron cases. Almost 17% of patients were admitted to the hospital. Compared to Omicron infected children, pre-Delta and Delta infected children were twice as likely to be hospitalized (OR=2.2 and 2.0, respectively;p<0.0001). Infants less than 1 year of age were >3 times as likely to be hospitalized than children ages 5-14 years regardless of wave (OR=3.42; 95%CI=2.36–4.94). Rural children were almost 3 times as likely than urban children to be hospitalized across all waves (OR=2.73; 95%CI=1.97–3.78). Finally, those with a complex condition had nearly a 15-fold increase in odds of admission (OR=14.6; 95%CI=10.6–20.0).

Conclusions

Children diagnosed during the pre-Delta or Delta waves were more likely to be hospitalized than those diagnosed during the Omicron wave. Younger and rural patients were more likely to be hospitalized regardless of wave. We suspect lower vaccination rates and larger distances from medical care influenced higher hospitalization rates.
Up front and open, shrouded in secrecy, or somewhere in between? A Meta Research Systematic Review of Open Science Practices in Sport Medicine Research
Authors: Bullock Garrett S. , Ward Patrick , Impellizzeri Franco M. , Kluzek Stefan , Hughes Tom , Hillman Charles , Waterman Brian R. , Danelson Kerry , Henry Kaitlin , Barr Emily , Healey Kelsey , Räisänen Anu M. , Gomez Christina , Fernandez Garrett , Wolf Jakob , Nicholson Kristen F. , Sell Tim , Zerega Ryan , Dhiman Paula , Riley Richard D. , Collins Gary S
Published: March 2023

Objective

To investigate the extent and qualitatively synthesize open science practices within research published in the top five sports medicine journals from 01 May 2022 and 01 October 2022.

Design

Meta-research systematic review

Data Sources

MEDLINE

Eligibility Criteria

Studies were included if they were published in one of the identified top five sports medicine journals as ranked by Clarivate. Studies were excluded if they were systematic reviews, qualitative research, grey literature, or animal or cadaver models.

Results

243 studies were included. The median number of open science practices met per study was 2, out of a maximum of 12 (Range: 0-8; IQR: 2). 234 studies (96%, 95% CI: 94-99) provided an author conflict of interest statement and 163 (67%, 95% CI: 62-73) reported funding. 21 studies (9%, 95% CI: 5-12) provided open access data. 54 studies (22%, 95% CI: 17-included a data availability statement and 3 (1%, 95% CI: 0-3) made code available. 76 studies (32%, 95% CI: 25-37) had transparent materials and 30 (12%, 95% CI: 8-16) included a reporting guideline. 28 studies (12%, 95% CI: 8-16) were pre-registered. 6 studies (3%, 95% CI: 1-4) published a protocol. 4 studies (2%, 95% CI: 0-3) reported the availability of an analysis plan. 7 studies (3%, 95% CI: 1-5) reported patient and public involvement.

Conclusion

Sports medicine open science practices are extremely limited. The least followed practices were sharing code, data, and analysis plans. Without implementing open practices, barriers concerning the ability to aggregate findings and create cumulative science will continue to exist.

What is already known

Open science practices provide a mechanism for evaluating and improving the quality and reproducibility of research in a transparent manner, thereby enhancing the benefits to patient outcomes and society at large.

Understanding the current open science practices in sport medicine research can assist in identifying where and how sports medicine leadership can raise awareness, and develop strategies for improvement.

What are the new findings

No study published in the top five sports medicine journals met all open science practices

Studies often only met a small number of open science practices

Open science practices that were least met included providing open access code, data sharing, and the availability of an analysis plan.
Employee perceptions of corporate social responsibility activities: the case of family firms
Authors: Kallmuenzer Andreas , Bichler Bernhard , Petry Tanja , Valeri Marco
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) is becoming a standard for family firms as the challenges facing organizations today are pervasive. In this context, employees’ perceptions of CSR are a novel research field. This study aims to address human components of business operations as it aims to understand how employees perceive CSR activities and determine their role for employees’ identification and commitment in family firms.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a mixed-method design combining samples of employees of family firms in a quantitative (N = 168) and qualitative phase (N = 18).

Findings

In summary, the findings show that employee-directed CSR is most effective to influence employees’ identification and commitment. Detailed mediation analyses further support the path from community-oriented CSR toward identification-commitment and performance. Findings from employee interviews show that identification is particularly pronounced in CSR perceptions and that mechanisms of identification occur across three interfaces: the firm, the firm in the region and the firm in a globalized world impacting commitment and performance.

Originality/value

Family firms engage in various CSR activities. The authors show that existing efforts can be empirically supported but that there is room for improving the strategic selection and engagement of activities. In a nutshell, the findings emphasize the importance of human components for businesses. In this context, understanding how CSR activities build identification and affect organizational commitment has important implications for family firms boosting CSR activities. In particular, the contribution emphasizes family firms’ need to stay engaged in community-directed CSR while increasing awareness for environment-related activities and diversifying employee-related activities to enable identification.
Factors affecting omnichannel buying online and return in store: evidence from fast-fashion retail
Authors: Fares Naila , Lloret Jaime , Kumar Vikas , Frederico Guilherme F.
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The authors analysed the operations of two synchronised channels by focusing on “buy online and return in store” (BORS) strategies in fast-fashion retail by investigating internal and external factors affecting this omnichannel strategy.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors apply a combination of techniques to identify the BORS factors. Firstly, a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis was used to define the operational factors of BORS adoption. The authors then apply analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to evaluate the factors under four SWOT categories for kids, male and female consumer groups. The factors of BORS were then ranked using the fuzzy VlseKriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje (fuzzy VIKOR) approach.

Findings

Combining the SWOT, AHP and fuzzy VIKOR techniques, the authors identified 21 factors in this study. The opportunity that BORS provides for trying in the fitting room for a better convenient shopping experience was ranked as the most important factor, followed by the opportunity to create a loyal customer profile with an easy and well-organised return process. Furthermore, the results reveal that the child consumer group is the most critical of the stated operations factors, followed by male and female consumers.

Practical implications

The authors described the operational factors and supported the decision-making system of BORS for each consumer group with a priority ranking to realise effective managerial management for fast-fashion retailers and practitioners.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the growing literature on the BORS omnichannel strategy, specifically for fast-fashion retail based on consumer needs.
Green meets food delivery services: consumers' intention to reuse food delivery containers in the post-pandemic era
Authors: Sia Joseph Kee-Ming , Ho Jie Min , Hii Ivy S.H.
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has increased food delivery service demand, which generates massive amounts of solid waste, specifically plastic material. Therefore, this study aims to examine the determinants of consumers' intention to reuse food delivery containers (ITR) using the extended theory of planned behavior (TPB). Moral obligation was included as an antecedent, while behavioral expectation (BE) ahead of behavioral intention was an immediate predictor of consumers' pro-environmental behaviors.

Design/methodology/approach

The hypotheses were tested on 348 food delivery service users in Malaysia and analyzed using the partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM).

Findings

The findings indicated that consumers' ITR is directly influenced by perceived behavioral control and attitude. Perceived behavioral control and attitude had a positive partial indirect effect on ITR through BE. Meanwhile, subjective norms and moral obligation had a positive full indirect effect on ITR through BE.

Research limitations/implications

The findings can be directly applied to practical situations of food delivery companies and environmental protection organizations managing solid waste among food delivery services.

Practical implications

Understanding consumers' ITR could promote practical environmental sustainability. Practically, the study provides insights to the food delivery service industry, policymakers and relevant stakeholders to encourage consumer behavior change by reusing food delivery containers in line with Sustainable Development Goal 12.

Originality/value

The study enhances the existing literature by extending TPB with two psychological variables: moral obligation (independent variable) and BE (mediating variable). To the best of the authors' knowledge, this study is the first attempt to empirically investigate BE in consumers' pro-environmental behavioral intention in a high-context culture and developing economy. This study could benefit food and beverage merchants, food delivery companies, governments, non-governmental organizations and pro-environmental behavior researchers in this industry.
Analysing the role of available organisational slack resources in affecting environmental performance. A structural equation modelling approach
Authors: Vitale Gianluca , Cupertino Sebastiano , Taticchi Paolo
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the relationships between business slack resources and environmental performance and considers the possible effects that management commitment, corporate strategy to sustainability and innovation intensity can have on such interactions.

Design/methodology/approach

We performed partial least squares path modeling regressions on a sample of 697 non-financial listed companies worldwide, considering a time frame of 13 years.

Findings

Operational and financial slack resources are both detrimental to environmental performance in the short term. Nevertheless, financial slack resources are useful to boost innovation that enhances environmental performance. Environmental performance improvement seems to be more a matter of managerial commitment and strategic approach towards sustainability, rather than the availability of slack resources.

Research limitations/implications

Due to literature shortcomings on which effects slack resources can have on environmental performance, this paper sheds some light on the topic while also highlighting the role of management commitment, corporate sustainability strategy and innovation.

Practical implications

Managers should use financial slack resources in innovation activities to improve environmental performance. In doing so, they need to create retaining earnings to offset any costs using financial slack resources.

Originality/value

Adopting a holistic and net of endogeneity analytical perspective, this paper highlights some virtuous and critical interactions between the managerial commitment and strategic approach to sustainability, the availability of slack resources, innovation intensity and environmental performance to understand which aspects may foster or hinder the ecological transition of businesses.
The relevance of nurses’ self-concept in the social exchange process: a serial mediation model
Authors: Garcia-Pereyra Facundo , Matute Jorge , Argilés-Bosch Josep Maria
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Drawing on social exchange theory and the expectancy–value model, this study has two objectives. First, it sought to explore the mediating role of nurses’ self-concept and affective commitment between perceived organizational support (POS) and three different targets (organization, co-workers and patients) of organizational citizenship behavior (OCB). Second, it aimed to develop a better understanding of how nurses´ self-concept and affective commitment mediate the influence of POS on OCB directed toward different targets through sequential mediation.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 229 nurses. This sample was representative of the nursing population based on several demographic characteristics. Data analysis was performed using partial least squares analysis.

Findings

The study revealed that nurses´ self-concept plays a mediating role between POS and OCB directed toward the organization, co-workers and patients, while affective commitment has a mediating effect between POS and OCB directed toward the organization and co-workers. Finally, the indirect influence of POS on OCB through nurses´ self-concept and affective commitment was significant only at the organizational level.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the extant literature by identifying the mediating role of nurses´ self-concept among social exchange constructs such as POS, affective commitment and OCB directed toward different targets.
Plant species diversity enhances soil gross nitrogen transformations in a subtropical forest, southwest China
Authors: Zhu Zihong , Du Hu , Gao Kun , Fang Yuantian , Wang Kelin , Zhu Tongbin , Zhu Jing , Cheng Yi , Li Dejun
Published: March 2023

Plant species diversity (PSD) regulates ecosystem structure and functions, and is a key issue we need to consider when design vegetation restoration projects. Increasing PSD has been shown to promote or decrease soil nitrogen (N) availability, but the underlying mechanisms have not been well explored.

Here, 45 plots with the Shannon–Weiner indices ranging from 0.15 to 3.57 were selected in a subtropical forest to explore the effect of PSD on soil N transformations.

Higher PSD significantly enhanced the rates of gross N mineralization, gross nitrification, microbial N immobilization, net N mineralization, net nitrification and the contents of soil total N and inorganic N. Structural equation modelling showed that PSD indirectly impacted gross N transformations via its roles in regulating soil organic matter, mineral and microbial traits. Higher PSD stimulated gross N mineralization and nitrification mainly via its positive effects on microbial biomass content and gene abundances of chiA, archaeal or bacterial amoA, while increased microbial N immobilization mainly due to its stimulation of soil organic matter.

Synthesis and applications. Our findings highlight the crucial role of PSD in stimulating soil N availability and provide a mechanistic understanding which can be integrated into Earth system models to better predict soil N availability and C sequestration in response to PSD.
Exploring the relationship between information and communication technology (ICT) and productivity: Evidence from Australian farms
Authors: Chancellor Will
Published: March 2023

The relationship between information and communication technology (ICT) and farm productivity remains unresolved and often debated with limited evidence. While ICT is generally accepted by many to be a positive driver of productivity, others question it. Realistically, truth is likely somewhere in between. Certain ICT investments are likely to facilitate productivity improvement, whereas others may offer some other benefits such as improved safety or reduced emissions. It is also undeniable that some ICT investments may fail or offer little more than a temporary novelty. Using a sample of Australian farm‐level data, analysis in this paper finds a positive relationship between ICT investment and productivity. Specifically, the use of precision agriculture and machinery infused with ICT (such as GPS autosteering tractors) is found to be statistically significant. Moreover, digital internet access or access to the National Broadband Network (NBN) is found to be beneficial—and conversely, farms that reported mobile and internet connectivity problems tended to achieve lower productivity.
Fertilizer application training programs, the adoption of formula fertilization techniques and agricultural productivity: Evidence from 691 apple growers in China
Authors: Li Xingguang , Xue Wen , Huo Xuexi
Published: March 2023

The article examines whether agricultural training boosted technology adoption and productivity was a key issue that was concerned by policymakers and researchers. Thus, impacts of fertilizer application training programs on the adoption of formula fertilization techniques and agricultural productivity were analyzed by using the survey data of 691 apple growers. The results indicated that: (i) compared with farmers who did not participate in fertilizer application training programs, the probability of the adoption of formula fertilization techniques was significantly increased by 256.1% for farmers who participated in fertilizer application training programs; (ii) fertilizer application training programs boosted the adoption of formula fertilization techniques via influencing farmers' cognition and willingness; (iii) yield was significantly increased by 14.3% at the 5% level through participating in fertilizer application training programs, and fertilizer application training programs improved agricultural productivity by means of enhancing the adoption of formula fertilization techniques. This study was conducive to evaluating the effectiveness of agricultural training and boosting agricultural sustainable development.
Perceptions of plant‐based fish among Atlantic Canadians
Authors: Gorman Mackenzie , Moss Rachael , Fisher Cassie , Knowles Sophie , Ritchie Christopher , Schindell Kaelyn , McSweeney Matthew B.
Published: March 2023

There is an increasing demand for plant‐based alternatives by individuals living in the Western world. One of the newer plant‐based alternatives is plant‐based fish and seafood (PBFs). This study aimed to investigate individuals’ opinions and attitudes toward PBFs, as well as evaluate the effect of involvement in the fishing industry on the participants’ attitudes. Participants (n = 183) were asked to answer questions about their perceptions of PBFs. Participants believed that PBFs were environment‐friendly and were interested in trying PBFs but were concerned about the taste and texture of PBFs. Although participants were likely to try PBFs, they were less likely to add them to their regular diet. After reading messages about the benefits of PBFs in this study, participants’ willingness to try PBFs and add PBFs into their regular diet increased. In addition, those who worked in the fishing industry or had high food neophobic scores did not believe that PBFs would taste like conventional fish and seafood products. Future studies should investigate the attitudes of individuals living in different regions and investigate whether exposure to PBFs affects consumer perceptions of the food product.

Practical Application

Consumer demand for new plant‐based products is increasing, but before new products can be released, participants’ attitudes and perceptions need to be evaluated. Plant‐based alternatives to fish and seafood are a new food product, and therefore, participants’ attitudes toward them need to be investigated. It was found that the individuals were more willing to try plant‐based fish and seafood. In addition, they were more likely to incorporate them into their diet after reading about the nutritional benefits and sustainability of PBFs.
DNA methylation‐based biomarkers for ageing long‐lived cetaceans
Authors: Parsons Kim M. , Haghani Amin , Zoller Joseph A. , Lu Ake T. , Fei Zhe , Ferguson Steven H. , Garde Eva , Hanson M. Bradley , Emmons Candice K. , Matkin Craig O. , Young Brent G. , Koski William R. , Horvath Steve
Published: March 2023

Epigenetic approaches for estimating the age of living organisms are revolutionizing studies of long‐lived species. Molecular biomarkers that allow age estimates from small tissue biopsies promise to enhance studies of long‐lived whales, addressing a fundamental and challenging parameter in wildlife management. DNA methylation (DNAm) can affect gene expression, and strong correlations between DNAm patterns and age have been documented in humans and nonhuman vertebrates and used to construct “epigenetic clocks”. We present several epigenetic clocks for skin samples from two of the longest‐lived cetaceans, killer whales and bowhead whales. Applying the mammalian methylation array to genomic DNA from skin samples we validate four different clocks with median errors of 2.3–3.7 years. These epigenetic clocks demonstrate the validity of using cytosine methylation data to estimate the age of long‐lived cetaceans and have broad applications supporting the conservation and management of long‐lived cetaceans using genomic DNA from remote tissue biopsies.
Vaccine politics: Law and inequality in the pandemic response to COVID‐19
Authors: Kavanagh Matthew M. , Singh Renu
Published: March 2023

International mechanisms failed to achieve equitable distribution of COVID‐19 vaccines—prolonging and deepening the pandemic. To understand why, we conduct process tracing of the first year of international policymaking on vaccine equity. We find that, in the absence of a single venue for global negotiation, two competing law and policy paradigms emerged. One focused on demand and voluntary action by states and firms, while the alternative focused on opening knowledge and expanding production through national and international law. While these could have been complementary, power inequalities between key actors kept the second paradigm from gaining traction on the global agenda. The failure of the prevailing policy paradigm to secure equity is explained, not by unforeseen technical and financing challenges as some suggest, but by a fundamental misalignment with the political environment. While norm entrepreneurs encouraged sharing, political incentives pushed governments towards securing and hoarding doses. Firms responded to the latter. Mechanisms like COVAX proved incapable of countering these predictable international and domestic political forces. Earlier funding would not likely have changed the behaviour of states or firms in the absence of legal commitment. Barring significant geopolitical changes, a shift to include open/supply‐focused policies will be necessary to achieve equity in future pandemics.
Influencing factors of efficacy and long‐term use of amrubicin in patients with small cell lung cancer
Authors: Takahara Yutaka , Tanaka Takuya , Ishige Yoko , Shionoya Ikuyo , Yamamura Kouichi , Sakuma Takashi , Nishiki Kazuaki , Nakase Keisuke , Nojiri Masafumi , Kato Ryo , Shinomiya Shohei , Oikawa Taku , Mizuno Shiro
Published: March 2023

Background

Amrubicin (AMR) has become the standard of care for post‐relapse small cell lung cancer (SCLC). It has also been reported to achieve long‐term disease control in patients with good treatment response. However, the optimal patient population for whom AMR is effective and the factors associated with long‐term disease control are yet to be identified. The aim of the study was to identify the clinical characteristics and factors associated with long‐term disease control in patients with recurrent SCLC who would benefit from AMR therapy.

Methods

The clinical records of 33 patients diagnosed with recurrent SCLC and treated with AMR were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical information was compared between patients who achieved disease control (effective group) and who developed disease progression (noneffective group) on the first efficacy assessment after AMR and between patients who continued AMR for more than seven cycles (maintenance group) and those who terminated treatment after 1–6 cycles (discontinuation group).

Results

The noneffective group included significantly more patients with AMR dose reductions after the second cycle (p = 0.006). AMR dose reduction was an independent risk factor for disease progression. The maintenance group had significantly lower pretreatment lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels than the discontinuation group (p = 0.046). A high LDH level was an independent risk factor for short AMR discontinuation. Overall survival was significantly longer in the effective group than in the noneffective group (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

In AMR therapy for patients with relapsed SCLC, continuation of AMR without dose reduction after the second cycle may contribute to disease control and prolonged survival.
Rumen microbial composition associated with the non‐glucogenic to glucogenic short‐chain fatty acids ratio in Holstein cows
Authors: Takizawa Shuhei , Shinkai Takumi , Kobayashi Yosuke , Masuda Masahiro , Hashiba Kenji , Uchisawa Kota , Terada Fuminori
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to determine the physiological features and rumen microbial composition associated with the non‐glucogenic‐to‐glucogenic short‐chain fatty acids ratio (NGR). Holstein cows were housed in a free‐stall barn with an automatic milking system and fed a partially mixed ration. Physiological and microbial analyses were performed on 66 datasets collected from 66 cows (50–250 days in milk). NGR was positively correlated with ruminal pH, relative abundances of protozoa and fungi, methane conversion factor, methane intensity, plasma lipids, parity, and milk fat, and negatively correlated with total short‐chain fatty acids. To highlight the differences in bacterial and archaeal compositions between NGRs, low‐NGR cows (N = 22) were compared with medium‐NGR (N = 22) and high‐NGR (N = 22) cows. The low‐NGR group was characterized by a lower abundance of Methanobrevibacter and a higher abundance of operational taxonomic units belonging to the lactate‐producing, such as Intestinibaculum, Kandleria, and Dialister, and the succinate‐producing Prevotella. Our findings indicate that NGR affects the methane conversion factor, methane intensity, and blood and milk compositions. Low NGR is associated with a higher abundance of lactate‐ and succinate‐producing bacteria and lower abundances of protozoa, fungi, and Methanobrevibacter.