bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of entrepreneurial ecosystems on digital transformations: micro-level analysis
Authors: Guimarães Jaiandra , Fernandes Cristina , Mota Veiga Pedro
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Entrepreneurial ecosystems (EEs) contribute to organisational success through enabling actors to restructure businesses, stimulating exchanges of resources as well as applications and improvements to technological approaches. Hence, the purpose of this paper is to study the impact of EE micro-level variables on digital transformations.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on data spanning 5,000 Portuguese firms, the authors selected a random sample of 300, including businesses in the industrial, retail and service sectors. The authors deployed the multiple linear regression statistical method to validate the hypotheses.

Findings

As a result, the authors may conclude the organisation and the micro-level actors of EEs, owners and their members of staff produce influences on digital transformation processes.

Originality/value

This study contributes to completing the gap in the literature regarding the shortage of quantitative empirical studies approaching micro-level EE variables from the perspective of their relationships with digital transformation processes.
Nonlinear impact of financial inclusion on tax revenue: evidence from the Monte-Carlo simulation algorithm under the Bayesian approach
Authors: Nguyen The Binh , Oanh Tran Thi Kim , Le Quoc Dinh , Nguyen Thi Hong Ha
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This article aims to study the nonlinear effect of financial inclusion on tax revenue of 21 low financial development countries (LFDCs) and 22 high financial development countries (HFDCs) from 2004 to 2020.

Design/methodology/approach

The study calculates the world average financial development index (FD̅) for all countries using data from the IMF. The average FD of HFDCs is higher than (FD̅). On the other hand, the average FD of LFDCs is lower than (FD̅). Data of 21 LFDCs and 22 HFDCs cover the period 2004–2020. With the small sample problem, we applied the Bayesian method to examine the nonlinear effect of financial inclusion on the tax revenue of the two groups of countries.

Findings

Using the Bayesian method, the results show that financial inclusion negatively impacts tax revenue with an absolute probability of 100% in LFDCs and a lower probability of 92.45% in HFDCs. Additionally, the financial inclusion threshold at LFDCs is 18.90. Below this threshold, financial inclusion promotes tax revenue with a 100% probability. On the contrary, when financial inclusion exceeds the threshold, it will have a negative effect on tax revenue. Similarly, the financial inclusion threshold at HFDCs is 20.14, with a probability of 92.45%.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first paper to examine the nonlinear impact of financial inclusion on tax revenue in high and low financial development countries.
Management and sustainability of event facilities: perceptions of end-users in higher education institutions in Ghana
Authors: Kidido Joseph Kwaku , Alhassan Tahiru , Frimpong Nyarko Charlotte Pokua
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Users are key stakeholders in event facilities, and therefore facilities management (FM) services must meet their needs and expectations. The paper aims to assess users’ perceptions of FM practices and sustainability in event facilities in higher education institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a descriptive design approach to explore the perceptions of end-users of event facilities. Using Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology as a case study, 384 users of the event facilities were contacted through the email directory of the event facilities. Questionnaires were used to collect data and analysed in descriptive and inferential statistics with the aid of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS v22.0).

Findings

The study categorised users’ perceptions into customer care, security and safety and service quality dimensions. The results revealed that constituent key important indices of these three dimensions were not significant at both the composite and individual levels. Thus, the users generally perceived FM practices in the event facilities to be below standard. None of the three sustainability constituents was significant, suggesting that users perceived event FM sustainability practices as below standard.

Practical implications

The study presents users’ perceptions of FM practices in event facilities. It has also suggested effective ways of managing event facilities to improve user comfort, safety and satisfaction.

Originality/value

The study provides relevant information on users’ perceptions of FM practices. It specifically has sustainable FM as a key component, which is crucial for achieving sustainable development goals.
Sustainable food supply chain: exploration, identification, and analysis of the critical drivers for the foxnut (Makhana) industry
Authors: Kashyap Abhishek , Shukla Om Ji
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to recognize and prioritize the critical drivers (CDs) essential for establishing a sustainable foxnut supply chain (SFNSC) aligned with the sustainable development goals (SDGs) set forth by the United Nations. The objective is to make a meaningful contribution to the longevity and well-rounded sustainability of the foxnut industry by scrutinizing pivotal factors that endorse triple bottom line (TBL) sustainability aspect throughout the supply chain.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic approach, integrating literature reviews and government reports, identified potential CDs for a sustainable foxnut supply chain. Expert opinions refined the list with the help of fuzzy-Delphi method (FDM), and the final CDs were analyzed with fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (F-DEMATEL) to establish their causal relationships and hierarchical importance.

Findings

The study identifies the top three CDs for a SFNSC: “Branding of the product”, “The Global increase in demand” and “Value addition of the foxnut”. Moreover, “Storage infrastructure”, “Mechanized processing” and “Proper transportation facilities” also contribute to the sustainability of the foxnut supply chain.

Research limitations/implications

The results hold significance for various stakeholders in the foxnut industry, encompassing producers, policymakers and researchers. The identified CDs can guide decision-making and resource allocation to improve the sustainability of the foxnut supply chain. The study's framework and methodology can also be applied to other industries to promote sustainable practices and achieve SDGs.

Originality/value

This study enhances understanding of CDs for an SFNSC. FDM and F-DEMATEL techniques analyze causal relationships and rank key factors. The SFNSC model may help other major foxnut producers to become more sustainable.
How does cultural strategy drive the global expansion of edu-business? The case of a Japanese company in private supplementary education
Authors: Asakura Takamichi
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to understand the mechanisms driving individuals to utilise and engage in edu-business and contribute to the industry’s development, even when they face criticism. To that end, this paper, focussing on corporate stories, explores the cultural strategies education companies employ to expand their businesses overseas.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper examines the case study of Kumon Institute of Education, a key player in the Japanese edu-business sector. The analysis is based on interviews conducted between 2019 and 2021 with four public relations officers who possess extensive knowledge of the company’s history. Additionally, it draws on government and company documents, as well as newspaper articles. The analysis focusses on the narrative isomorphism between the company and the government from the provider’s perspective.

Findings

Kumon’s corporate stories and narratives have been shaped by the history, culture and policies of Japan, its country of origin, rather than adopting a bottom-up approach or embracing neoliberal values. As the company expanded its international reach, its Japanese identity became a cornerstone of its narrative, heightening the appeal of its stories through the use of expert discourse and historic cultural resources. Recently, a synergy has developed between the public and private sectors in the realm of education export, reinforcing the distinctly Japanese nature of the company, which is particularly appealing to both users and employees.

Originality/value

This paper focusses on the edu-business itself, analysing cultural strategies that go beyond the functional aspects of management or services to understand how edu-businesses have attracted people.
Perceived organizational politics and employee voice: the role of affect and supervisor political support
Authors: Zhou Yanzhe , Sun Jian-min
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Adopting an affective events perspective, our study investigates the relationship between perceived organizational politics (POP) and employee voice by exploring the mediating role of affect and the moderating role of supervisor political support.

Design/methodology/approach

The hypothesized model was tested with three-wave data collected from 393 full-time employees.

Findings

Results indicate that POP indirectly impacts employee voice through influencing positive and negative affect, and that supervisor political support moderates these indirect effects by moderating the relationship between POP and affective states.

Research limitations/implications

Survey data can hardly test the causal relationship. Effect of employees' POP could be further examined in the lens subjective positive experiences. Organizational politics might have positive meanings.

Practical implications

Our findings show that POP brings employees negative feelings and reduces their voice behaviors while supervisor political support can mitigate this inhibiting effect. Therefore, managers should learn how to use political behavior more reasonably in highly political work environment.

Originality/value

By highlighting the possibility that employees can be beneficiaries having a vested interest in political environment and investigating the unexplored affective explanatory mechanisms underlying the POP–voice relationship, this study provides new directions for future research on POP and employee voice.
Five Finger Model: an empathic alternative to the elevator speech
Authors: Stonebraker Ilana , Guth LuMarie
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Librarians need to effectively communicate the need for space, resources and personnel, even in service or technical positions, yet librarians often lack formal leadership or strategy training on how to be most effective in advocating for the library. This paper presents the Five Finger Model as a communication strategy for training librarians on advocacy.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to show how the Five Finger Model can be helpful, we have included two case examples from our own work contexts, which are in academic libraries. We also present guidance on how to train library staff on the model.

Findings

In one example, the model was used for advocating for the library as part of the campus-level strategic planning process. In another example, the model was used to effectively market research consultations. These examples highlight how the Five Finger Model can help the communicator stay on topic and use personal stories to have a strong advocacy effect.

Originality/value

This paper is unique in that it shows how staff training on advocacy can be impactful and useful. We believe that putting tools like the Five Finger Model into the hands of staff not only improves their effectiveness but also empowers them to see their role as true advocates for the library.
Plant-based diets and the risk of age-related cataract: a case-control study
Authors: Nikparast Ali , Rahmani Jamal , Thomas Jessica , Etesami Elahe , Javid Zeinab , Ghanavati Matin
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Cataract, or lens opacification, is a major public health burden accounting for more than half of all blindness worldwide. Plant-based dietary indices provide a unique approach to investigating a modifiable risk for age-related cataracts (ARC). The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between plant-based diet indices and risk of ARC.

Design/methodology/approach

This case-control study was conducted on 97 patients with newly diagnosed ARC and 198 healthy people (as a control group) in Iran. Convenience sampling and a food frequency questionnaire were used. Three plant-based dietary indices were used based on the health promoting qualities of food items, the overall plant-based diet index (PDI), healthful plant-based diet index (H-PDI) and unhealthful plant-based diet index (U-PDI) which comprised refined carbohydrates and highly processed foods. The plant-based dietary indices were used to investigate relationships with risk of ARC.

Findings

After adjusting for potential covariates, no significant association between a higher adherence to O-PDI and risk of ARC. As well, a higher adherence to H-PDI was inversely associated with the risk of ARC (OR = 0.35,95%CI:0.16–0.78). In contrast, there was a significant positive association between a higher adherence to U-PDI and the risk of ARC (OR = 3.67,95%CI:1.66 – 8.15).

Originality/value

The findings of this study have underscored the potential impact of the quality of plant-based food selections on the likelihood of developing ARC. Therefore, adopting a plant-based diet that is rich in nutrient-dense plant-based foods while being low in unhealthy options may have the potential to reduce the risk of ARC.
An integrated hybrid approach for assembly tolerance transfer and allocation
Authors: Ghali Maroua , Aifaoui Nizar
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to develop an optimal tolerance allocation strategy involves integrating the unique transfer (UT) approach and the difficulty coefficient evaluation (DCE) routine in an interactive hybrid method. This method combines the strengths of both UT and DCE, ensuring simultaneous utilization for enhanced performance. The proposed tolerancing model manifests an integrated computer-aided design (CAD) tool.

Design/methodology/approach

By combining UT and DCE based on failure mode, effects and criticality analysis (FMECA) tool and the Ishikawa diagram, the proposed collaborative hybrid tool ensures an efficient and optimal tolerance allocation approach. The integration of these methodologies not only addresses specific transfer challenges through UT but also conducts a thorough evaluation of difficulty coefficients via DCE routine using reliability analysis tools as FMECA tool and the Ishikawa diagram. This comprehensive framework contributes to a robust and informed decision-making process in tolerance allocation, ultimately optimizing the design and manufacturing processes.

Findings

The presented methodology is implemented with the aim of generating allocated tolerances that align with specific difficulty requirements, facilitating the creation of a mechanical assembly characterized by high quality and low cost. To substantiate and validate the conceptual framework and methods, an integrated tool has been developed, featuring a graphical user interface (GUI) designed in MATLAB. This interface serves as a platform to showcase various interactive and integrated tolerance allocation approaches that adhere to both functional and manufacturing prerequisites. The proposed integrated tool, designed with a GUI in MATLAB, offers the capability to execute various examples that effectively demonstrate the benefits of the developed tolerance transfer and allocation methodology.

Originality/value

The originality of the proposed approach is the twining between the UT and DCE simultaneous in an integrated and concurrent tolerance transfer and allocation model. Therefore, the proposed approach is named an integrated CAD/tolerance model based on the manufacturing difficulty tool. The obtained results underscore the tangible advantages stemming from the integration of this innovative tolerance transfer and allocation approach. These benefits include a notable reduction in total cost and a concurrent enhancement in product quality.
Analytical modeling of perceived authenticity in AI assistants: application of PLS-predict algorithm and importance-performance map analysis
Authors: Pandey Palima , Rai Alok Kumar
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The present study aimed to explore the consequences of perceived authenticity in artificial intelligence (AI) assistants and develop a serial-mediation architecture specifying causation of loyalty in human–AI relationships. It intended to assess the predictive power of the developed model based on a training-holdout sample procedure. It further attempted to map and examine the predictors of loyalty, strengthening such relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) based on bootstrapping technique was employed to examine the higher-order effects pertaining to human–AI relational intricacies. The sample size of the study comprised of 412 AI assistant users belonging to millennial generation. PLS-Predict algorithm was used to assess the predictive power of the model, while importance-performance analysis was executed to assess the effectiveness of the predictor variables on a two-dimensional map.

Findings

A positive relationship was found between “Perceived Authenticity” and “Loyalty,” which was serially mediated by “Perceived-Quality” and “Animacy” in human–AI relational context. The construct “Loyalty” remained a significant predictor of “Emotional-Attachment” and “Word-of-Mouth.” The model possessed high predictive power. Mapping analysis delivered contradictory result, indicating “authenticity” as the most significant predictor of “loyalty,” but the least effective on performance dimension.

Practical implications

The findings of the study may assist marketers to understand the relevance of AI authenticity and examine the critical behavioral consequences underlying customer retention and extension strategies.

Originality/value

The study is pioneer to introduce a hybrid AI authenticity model and establish its predictive power in explaining the transactional and communal view of human reciprocation in human–AI relationship. It exclusively provided relative assessment of the predictors of loyalty on a two-dimensional map.
Ag-based filler metal wetting behavior and brazed joint performance on SLMed Ti/TiB2 substrate
Authors: Wang Liuyong , Wu Qi , Song Ziming , Li Yue , Li Xuewen , Tu Bing , Li Yulong
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the wetting behavior of AgCuTi and AgCu filler metals on selective laser melting (SLMed) Ti/TiB2, and to analyze the microstructure and fracture characteristics of SLMed Ti/TiB2/AgCuTi or AgCu alloy/SLMed Ti/TiB2 brazed joints. The wetting behavior of AgCuTi and AgCu filler metals on the selective laser melted (SLMed) Ti/TiB2 has been studied. The analysis of microstructures and fracture characteristics in vacuum-brazed SLMed Ti/TiB2 substrate, using AgCuTi and AgCu filler metals, has been conducted to elucidate the influence of brazing temperature and alloy composition on the shear strength of the brazed joints.

Design/methodology/approach

Brazing SLMed-Ti/TiB2 in a vacuum using AgCuTi and AgCu filler metals, this study aims to explore the optimal parameters for brazed joints at various brazing temperatures (800°C−950°C).

Findings

The findings suggest that elevated brazing temperatures lead to a more extensive diffusion region in the joint as a result of the partial melting of the filler metal. The joint composition changes from distinct Ti2Cu layer/TiCu layer/filler metal to a-Ti (ss) + ß-Ti (ss)/TiCu. As the brazing temperature increases, the fracture mode shifts from brittle cleavage to ductile fracture, mainly attributed to a decrease in the CuTi within the brazed joint. This change in fracture behavior indicates an improvement in the ductility and toughness of the joint.

Originality/value

The originality of this study lies in the comprehensive analysis of the microstructure and shear strength of vacuum brazing SLMed Ti/TiB2 using AgCuTi and AgCu filler metals.
A psychometric study of validation and cross-cultural adaptation of the Holden Communication Scale for elderly with dementia in care homes
Authors: Alkhawaldeh Abdullah , Abdalrahim Asem , Saleh Mohammad , Ayed Ahmad , Ababneh Anas Nawwaf Abed Alrohman , Rababa Mohammad , Dalky Alaa , Al-Amer Rasmieh , Al-Rawashdeh Sami , Al Omari Omar , ALBashtawy Mohammed , Oweidat Islam , Khatatbeh Haitham , ALBashtawy Zaid
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to validate and adapt the Arabic version of Holden Communication Scale (HCS) for assessing communication skills among old people with dementia in care home.

Design/methodology/approach

A study involving 210 elderly residents from Jordanian care homes was conducted, where they completed the Arabic version of the HCS. Internal consistency and factor analysis techniques were precisely used to assess the scale's reliability. Additionally, cognitive function evaluation used the Arabic iteration of the Saint Louis University Mental Status (SLUMS) questionnaire, while communication skills were comprehensively appraised using the HCS.

Findings

The Arabic HCS has strong content validity, with a one-component structure accounting for 60% of the variation and a three-factor structure accounting for 77.2% of the variance. The original three-subgroup structure of the scale was recreated, and internal consistency varied from 0.85 to 0.87, indicating good reliability.

Originality/value

This study aimed to assess the reliability and validity of the Arabic version of the HCS among old people with dementia residing in care homes. The authors conducted examination of its psychometric properties within this unique population.
Risk ambassadors and saviours: Children and futuring public health interventions
Authors: Hanckel Benjamin , Garnett Emma , Green Judith
Published: June 2024

Schools are increasingly positioned as sites for intervening on the bodies and minds of children in the here and now in order to bring about health gain for the future. Public health interventions for schools bring together coalitions of commercial, statutory and philanthropic actors with children and their teachers and carers. Drawing on ethnographic case studies in London, UK, this paper explores two such interventions: one aiming to increase levels of physical activity and one to reduce exposure to air pollution. Both interventions not only evoke care for children’s own current and future wellbeing but also fold in imaginaries of collective health futures, which orient and legitimise particular intervention logics and actions. As interventions unfold, children are recruited as monitors of health risks in the present. They are also positioned as risk ambassadors, who will leverage care about unhealthy environments and lifestyles across space, to risky domestic environments, and into imagined health futures. These ‘futuring’ school‐based interventions open up small alternative spaces in which imaginaries of collective and resistant public health practices emerge. However, in the here and now, children appear to be bearing a disproportionate burden of responsibility, as ambassadors for, and imagined saviours of, public and environmental health.
The effect of public funding and government effectiveness on CO2 emissions in developing countries: Evidence from panel quantile analysis
Authors: Boujedra Faouzi , Ben Jebli Mehdi , Aloui Amel
Published: June 2024

Environmental concerns emphasize the need for sustainable finance now more than ever. The study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of whether public funding for renewable energy impacts environmental degradation in developing countries over time. It emphasizes the relationship between green finance, renewable energy adoption, and government effectiveness in driving sustainable development. This study examines the relationship between CO2 emissions, gross domestic product, renewable energy consumption, investments in renewable and government effectiveness. The study sample includes 34 developing countries for the period between 2000 and 2020. The analysis specifically employs public flows as a measure to gauge a country's commitment to green finance. It also employs a simultaneous panel quantile regression estimator. The results reveal a cointegrating relationship among variables, with notable findings: GDP increase correlates with CO2 emissions rise, while higher renewable energy consumption correlates with CO2 emissions decrease. Interestingly, increased public funding correlates with reduced CO2 emissions for the upper quantile. Furthermore, the analysis uncovers that government policies have yet to fully align with the sustainable development goals. These findings hold critical implications for informed policymaking. Developing countries should opt for sustainable financing and create a favorable environment for investment. Moreover, funders should ensure equitable distribution of public flows within developing countries and fund less mature technologies.
Genome of tropical bed bug Cimex hemipterus (Cimicidae, Hemiptera) reveals tetraspanin expanded in bed bug ancestor
Authors: Law Sean Tsz Sum , Nong Wenyan , Li Chade , Chong Tze Kiu , Yip Ho Yin , Swale Thomas , Chiu Siu Wai , Chung Roger Yat‐Nork , Lam Hon‐Ming , Wong Samuel Y. S. , Wong Hung , Hui Jerome H. L.
Published: June 2024

Cimex species are ectoparasites that exclusively feed on warm‐blooded animals such as birds and mammals. Three cimicid species are known to be persistent pests for humans, including the tropical bed bug Cimex hemipterus, common bed bug Cimex lectularius, and Eastern bat bug Leptocimex boueti. To date, genomic information is restricted to the common bed bug C. lectularius, which limits understanding their biology and to provide controls of bed bug infestations. Here, a chromosomal‐level genome assembly of C. hemipterus (495 Mb [megabase pairs]) contained on 16 pseudochromosomes (scaffold N50 = 34 Mb), together with 9 messenger RNA and small RNA transcriptomes were obtained. In comparison between hemipteran genomes, we found that the tetraspanin superfamily was expanded in the Cimex ancestor. This study provides the first genome assembly for the tropical bed bug C. hemipterus, and offers an unprecedented opportunity to address questions relating to bed bug infestations, as well as genomic evolution to hemipterans more widely.
Correspondence between the alcohol‐P3 event‐related potential and alcohol reward phenotypes among young adults
Authors: Acuff Samuel F. , Cofresí Roberto U. , Varner Austin , Dennhardt Ashley A. , Sable Jeffrey J. , Bartholow Bruce D. , MacKillop James , Murphy James G.
Published: June 2024

Background

Behavioral economic theory suggests that the value of alcohol depends upon elements of the choice context, such that increasing constraints on alternatives (e.g., price) or increasing the benefits of alcohol (e.g., social context) may result in greater likelihood of heavy drinking. The P3 event‐related potential elicited by alcohol‐related cues, a proposed marker of incentive salience, may be an electrophysiological parallel for behavioral economic alcohol demand. However, these indices have not been connected in prior research, and studies typically do not disaggregate social influences in the context of alcohol cue reactivity.

Method

The current study recruited heavy drinking young adults (N = 81) who completed measures of alcohol use and alcohol demand, in addition to a 2 (social/nonsocial) × 2 (alcohol/nonalcohol) visual oddball task to elicit the P3.

Results

In multilevel models controlling for demographic characteristics, P3 reactivity was greater to alcohol (p < 0.001) and social (p < 0.001) cues than to nonalcohol and nonsocial cues, but without a significant interaction. Higher alcohol consumption (p = 0.02) and lower elasticity of demand (p = 0.01) were associated with greater P3 response to alcohol than nonalcohol cues.

Conclusions

The results highlight a brain‐behavior connection that may be an important marker for alcohol reward across units of analysis and may be sensitive to changes in the economic choice contexts that influence the likelihood of alcohol use.
Responses of Gross's stinkfish, Callionymus grossi (Ogilby 1910) to perceived threats
Authors: Ebner Brendan C.
Published: June 2024

Predator avoidance is critical to fish survival and yet multiple types of predator response are rarely recorded at the level of individuals let alone studied in detail. Behaviour of an individual adult male dragonet, Gross's stinkfish Callionymus grossi (Ogilby 1910) (Family Callionymidae) was observed over the course of four consecutive daily snorkelling sessions on high tides in the Maroochy River estuary, Queensland, Australia. On two occasions, the dragonet buried in the sand in the presence of a great barracuda, Sphyraena barracuda, whereas, smaller benthic predators or competitors and the observer sometimes provoked dorsal fin raising and fleeing responses of the dragonet. The dragonet, therefore, demonstrates multiple responses to potential predators and competitors seemingly depending on the likely severity of interaction. Further research of dragonet fishes is recommended to disentangle the functionality of fin display in this group, with the anti‐predator function of fin displays and honest signalling of chemical defence a promising aspect for investigation.
Barriers and enablers to accessing perinatal health services for rural Australian women: A qualitative exploration of rural health care providers perspectives
Authors: Faulks Fiona , Edvardsson Kristina , Shafiei Touran
Published: June 2024

Objective

To identify perceived barriers and enablers for rural women in accessing perinatal care within their own community from the perspective of perinatal health care providers.

Design

A qualitative descriptive study design utilising reflexive thematic analysis, using the socioecological framework to organise and articulate findings.

Setting

Victoria, Australia.

Participants

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with nine perinatal health care providers who provide care to pregnant women or new mothers in rural communities. Participants were recruited across Victoria in 2023.

Results

Providers reported multi‐level barriers and enablers that exist for rural women in accessing perinatal care within their communities. Barriers included women's personal circumstances, challenging professional relationships, inequitable service provision, ineffective collaboration between services and clinicians and government funding models and policies. Enablers included strength and resilience of rural women, social capital within rural communities, flexible care delivery and innovative practice, rural culture and continuity of care models.

Conclusion

Rural perinatal health care providers perceived that rural women face multiple barriers that are created or sustained by complex interpersonal, organisational, community and policy factors that are intrinsic to rural health care delivery. Several addressable factors were identified that create unnecessary barriers for rural women in engaging with perinatal care. These included education regarding health systems, rights and expectations, equitable distribution of perinatal services, improved interprofessional relationships and collaborative approaches to care and equity‐based funding models for perinatal services regardless of geographical location.
Early blast clearance during sequential conditioning prior to allogeneic stem cell transplantation in patients with acute myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Ronnacker Julian , Urbahn Marc‐Andre , Reicherts Christian , Kolloch Lina , Berning Philipp , Sandmann Sarah , Eßeling Eva , Call Simon , Floeth Matthias , Marx Julia , Albring Jörn , Mikesch Jan‐Henrik , Schliemann Christoph , Lenz Georg , Stelljes Matthias
Published: June 2024

For patients with relapsed or refractory AML, sequential conditioning prior to allogeneic stem cell transplantation (alloSCT) is an established and potentially curative treatment option. Early response to treatment during conditioning indicates chemotherapy‐responsive disease and may have prognostic value. We retrospectively evaluated blast clearance on day 5 after melphalan, administered 11 days prior to alloSCT as part of a sequential conditioning in 176 patients with active AML. Overall survival (OS) was 52% (95% confidence interval [CI] 45%–60%), and relapse‐free survival (RFS) was 47% (95% CI 40%–55%) at 3 years. Patients who achieved early blast clearance did not show a significant improvement in OS and RFS (OS, hazard ratio [HR] HR 0.75, p 0.19; RFS, HR 0.71, p 0.09, respectively), but had a significantly lower non‐relapse mortality rate (HR 0.46, p 0.017). HLA‐mismatched donor, older age, adverse genetic risk and higher comorbidity scores were associated with inferior survival outcomes. A high initial blast count was only associated with inferior prognosis in patients receiving chemotherapy‐only compared to total body irradiation containing conditioning therapy. These results indicate that for patients transplanted with active AML, sensitivity to chemotherapy might be of less importance, compared to other disease‐ and transplant‐related factors.
SERPINA11 related novel serpinopathy – A perinatal lethal disorder
Authors: Aggarwal Shagun , Vineeth Venugopal Satidevi , Padwal Shrutika S. , Bhat Sameer Ahmed , Singh Arpita , Kulkarni Aditya , Patil Mallikarjun , Tallapaka Karthik , Pasumarthi Divya , Venkatapuram Vijayasree , Thotakura Pragna Lakshmi , Dalal Ashwin , Bhandari Rashna
Published: June 2024

SERPINA11 is a hitherto poorly characterised gene belonging to Clade A of the SERPIN superfamily, with unknown expression pattern and functional significance. We report a perinatal lethal phenotype in two foetuses from the same family associated with a biallelic loss of function variant in SERPINA11, and provide functional evidence to support its candidature as a Mendelian disorder. The SERPINA11 variant‐associated foetal phenotype is characterised by gross and histopathological features of extracellular matrix disruption. Western blot and immunofluorescence analyses revealed SERPINA11 expression in multiple mouse tissues, with pronounced expression in the bronchiolar epithelium. We observed a significant decrease in SERPINA11 immunofluorescence in the affected foetal lung compared with a healthy gestation‐matched foetus. Protein expression data from HEK293T cell lines following site‐directed mutagenesis support the loss of function nature of the variant. Transcriptome analysis from the affected foetal liver indicated the possibility of reduced SERPINA11 transcript abundance. This novel serpinopathy appears to be a consequence of the loss of inhibition of serine proteases involved in extracellular matrix remodelling, revealing SERPINA11 as a protease inhibitor critical for embryonic development.
Diagnosing contact dermatitis using machine learning: A review
Authors: McMullen Eric , Grewal Rajan , Storm Kyle , Maazi Mahan , Butt Abu Bakar , Gupta Raghav , Maibach Howard
Published: June 2024

Background

Machine learning (ML) offers an opportunity in contact dermatitis (CD) research, where with full clinical picture, may support diagnosis and patch test accuracy.

Objective

This review aims to summarise the existing literature on how ML can be applied to CD in its entirety.

Methods

Embase, Medline, IEEE Xplore, and ACM Digital Library were searched from inception to February 7, 2024, for primary literature reporting on ML models in CD.

Results

7834 articles were identified in the search, with 110 moving to full‐text review, and six articles included. Two used ML to identify key biomarkers to help distinguish between allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) and irritant contact dermatitis (ICD), three used image data to distinguish between ACD and ICD, and one used clinical and demographical data to predict the risk of positive patch tests. All studies used supervision in their ML model training with a total of 49 704 patients across all data sets. There was sparse reporting of the accuracy of these models.

Conclusions

Although the available research is still limited, there is evidence to suggest that ML has potential to support diagnostic outcomes in a clinical setting. Further research on the use of ML in clinical practice is recommended.
Antwerp's Royal Museum of Fine Arts
Authors: Doering Zahava D.
Published: June 2024

The Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Antwerp, Belgium, reopened after an 11‐year renovation. In addition to completely cleaning the exterior façade of the neoclassical building, a new, modern wing was built inside former internal courtyards—a glossy, white cube with very high ceilings and a dramatic 100+ step flight of stairs. The historical part of the museum was also fully renovated to its original grandeur. The collection was reinstalled, and the overall interpretive strategy focused on making the art approachable to a multigenerational and multicultural visitorship: Eschewing chronology, paintings are grouped by themes, texts are user‐friendly and encourage interactive experiences, and special activities are available for children. Short videos are also available in some galleries that provide context, explain specific art techniques, or contain games. A wide range of experiences is available to museum users, somewhat consistent with an approach proposed by the Smithsonian Institution's IPOP framework. The reviewer found the reinstallation and related user experiences a relevant, people‐oriented model for 21st century art museums.
Epilepsy professionals' views on sudden unexpected death in epilepsy counselling: A tale of two countries
Authors: Watkins Lance , Henning Oliver , Bassett Paul , Ashby Samantha , Tromans Samuel , Shankar Rohit
Published: June 2024

Background and purpose

Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is a leading cause of epilepsy mortality. All international guidance strongly advocates for clinicians working with people with epilepsy (PWE) to discuss SUDEP. Clinician views working with PWE in the UK and Norway on SUDEP counselling are compared.

Methods

A cross‐sectional online mixed methodology survey of 17 Likert and free‐text response questions using validated themes was circulated via International League against Epilepsy/Epilepsy Specialist Nurses Association in the UK and International League against Epilepsy/Epilepsinet in Norway using a non‐discriminatory exponential snowballing technique leading to non‐probability sampling. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Mann–Whitney, Kruskal–Wallis, chi‐squared and Fisher's exact tests. Significance was accepted at p < 0.05. Thematic analysis was conducted on free‐text responses.

Results

Of 309 (UK 197, Norway 112) responses, UK clinicians were more likely to have experienced an SUDEP (p < 0.001), put greater importance on SUDEP communication (p < 0.001), discuss SUDEP with all PWE particularly new patients (p < 0.001), have access and refer to bereavement support (p < 0.001) and were less likely to never discuss SUDEP (p < 0.001). Significant differences existed between both countries’ neurologists and nurses in SUDEP counselling with UK clinicians generally being more supportive. UK responders were more likely to be able to identify bereavement support (p < 0.001). Thematic analysis highlighted four shared themes and two specific to Norwegians.

Discussion

Despite all international guidelines stating the need/importance to discuss SUDEP with all PWE there remain hesitation, avoidance and subjectivity in clinicians having SUDEP‐related conversations, more so in Norway than the UK. Training and education are required to improve communication, engagement and decision making.
Screening ultrasonographic findings of Thoroughbred weanling horses show agreement with concurrent radiographic examination and with subsequent yearling sales radiographs
Authors: Hoey Seamus , McAllister Hester , Laverty Sheila , O'Sullivan Jeremiah , Toomey William , Connolly Susan , Skelly Cliona
Published: June 2024

Background

A screening ultrasonographic examination of yearling Thoroughbred horses has been described which can be performed on farm, as an adjunct to pre‐sale yearling radiography.

Objectives

To compare ultrasonographic and radiographic findings in young Thoroughbred horses in the detection of osteochondrosis.

Study design

Descriptive and comparative study using ultrasonography and radiography.

Methods

Forty‐four horses with a mean age of 10 months underwent an ultrasonographic screening protocol of joint groups including the bilateral stifle, tarsal, carpal and metacarpophalangeal/metatarsophalangeal joints. Concurrent standardised radiographic projections of all the joints were also undertaken. A cohort of 26 of these horses had a second set of radiographs taken for yearling sales approximately 6 months later. Two reviewers reviewed all images for presence or absence of osteochondrosis lesions. Comparison of the ultrasonographic and radiographic findings was undertaken using Gwet's AC1 and the Landis and Kock scale.

Results

The principal observer identified 48 ultrasonographic lesions and 15 radiographic lesions on the initial examination. Overall, there was agreement in screening for osteochondrosis using ultrasonographic and radiographic lesions, however, with varying levels of agreement for different joint groups. Agreement for individual joint groups was almost perfect for the carpal (0.98) and metatarsophalangeal joints (0.81), substantial for the stifle joints (0.67), moderate for the metacarpophalangeal joint (0.59) with only fair agreement of the tarsal joints (0.30). Six osteochondral lesions were recorded on the second set of radiographs. There was overall substantial agreement between the ultrasonographic findings and the second set of radiographs. A second observer reviewed the ultrasonographic and radiographic images. There was moderate interobserver agreement comparing ultrasonographic images, and almost perfect interobserver agreement comparing radiographic images.

Main limitations

Small number of horses who presented for yearling sale radiography for comparison. One ultrasonographer acquired all images, and two observers reviewed the images.

Conclusion

Ultrasonographic screening of yearling horses with a relatively low number of lesions showed agreement with concurrent and yearling sale radiographs.
John Henry Newman: Shaping the Philosopher
Authors: McHugh Paul James
Published: June 2024

The difficulties in placing Newman in a philosophical school or in putting some sort of shape on Newman the philosopher stem in part from Newman's (understandable) near failure to guide the reader as to his overt philosophical method. On the other hand, in the many discussions and controversies that occupied Newman throughout his life—whether conducted through letters or more formal writings—there is gathering witness to a consistent philosophical way in Newman. This paper seeks to put some shape on Newman the philosopher by two principal methods. First, by considering some inaccurate or wholly misleading philosophical labels which have been attached to Newman both in his day and in contemporary times. These help, as it were, to shape Newman the philosopher from without. Second, by examining those elements of his writing that have a philosophical cast, and teasing out hints and clues to Newman the philosopher. The paper argues that while Newman can most certainly be thought of as a philosopher, his subtle philosophical way situates him only problematically in any particular philosophical school, though there can in his work be traced connections to particular philosophical programmes, such as, for example, British empiricism.
Gel‐forming properties of Bambara groundnut globulin and protein subfractions: structural and rheological characterisation
Authors: Alabi Opeyemi O. , Amonsou Eric O.
Published: June 2024

The gel‐forming ability of the pulse proteins influences the formation of food products with desirable texture, structure, and stability. In this study, Bambara globulin was fractionated into legumin and vicilin for structural and physicochemical analyses, and heat‐induced gel rheological characterisation. Bambara globulin showed major vicilin (7S, Mw: 120 kDa) and minor legumin (11S, Mw: 410 kDa) components by size exclusion chromatography and gel electrophoresis analyses. Legumin had the lowest amount of all the charged amino acids. One basic subunit (22 kDa) was identified in the legumin fraction with predominant helical structures. The sol–gel transition temperatures increased in the order of globulin (40 °C) < legumin (50 °C) < vicilin (80 °C). The G′ and G″ of globulin showed relatively low dependency on heating time beyond the gel point compared to legumin and vicilin subfractions, suggesting a more rapid establishment of its gel network during gelation. Vicilin gel consisted of a microporous structure with a small lath sheet‐like structure compared to others. Bambara vicilin could be a prospective ingredient in the development of new products with defined textural characteristics.
Intergenerational adverse childhood experiences and adolescent migration aspirations in Nicaragua
Authors: Alcaraz Melissa , Schmeer Kammi K. , Weitzman Abigail
Published: June 2024

Adolescents' aspirations are strong predictors of their future outcomes, including later migration experiences. Adversity also shapes aspirations for and decisions about the future. Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are measures of early exposure to adversity and may be associated with migration aspirations, though this relationship is understudied. Given high rates of gender‐based violence, single‐headed households and economic insecurity, Nicaragua is an important context to study this relationship. Drawing on Nicaragua Health and Stress Study data, we estimate multinomial logistic regressions to examine the association between adolescents' and mothers' ACEs and adolescent migration aspirations. We find that mothers' ACEs, but not adolescents' ACEs, are positively associated with adolescent migration aspirations. We also find that girls are more likely than boys to aspire to migrate. Results highlight how family and gender work together to shape young people's migration goals, with important implications for migration flows within and outside Central America.