bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consumer responses to infectious disease cues: an integrative framework and research agenda
Authors: M. Affonso Felipe
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to develop an integrative framework explaining how infectious disease cues influence consumer behavior by connecting evolutionary psychology and behavioral immune system literature with consumer research.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper synthesizes pathogen-avoidance psychology and consumer behavior research to identify three psychological changes (affect, cognition, motivation) influencing consumer responses, developing theoretical propositions across five domains while identifying boundary conditions.

Findings

Disease cues trigger changes in affect (disgust, anxiety), cognition (narrowed attention) and motivation (self-protection). These influence consumer responses across self-regulation, social behavior/identity, information processing, evaluation and prosocial/sustainable behaviors. The framework identifies boundary conditions moderating these effects.

Research limitations/implications

The framework advances understanding of disease threats’ influence on consumer behavior and suggests future research directions, including contextual effects and individual differences.

Practical implications

The framework helps marketers predict consumer responses to disease cues, offering insights for marketing strategies during health crises and normal times.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this paper provides the first comprehensive framework explaining disease cues’ systematic influence on consumer behavior through psychological changes, extending behavioral immune system theory into consumer domains.
Knowledge loss and retention in interorganizational projects: evidence from public transportation projects from Pakistan
Authors: Iftikhar Rehab , Rashid Mehvish
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Knowledge loss and retention are common phenomena not only for organizations but also for interorganizational projects, where multiple organizations are involved. This paper sets out to understand why knowledge loss occurs and how to retain knowledge, particularly in the context of interorganizational projects. For this purpose, the Orange Line Metro Rail Transit System in Lahore, the Bus Rapid Transit in Peshawar and the Green Line Metrobus in Karachi, all in Pakistan, were examined.

Design/methodology/approach

A multi-case study approach is employed in this paper. Empirical data were collected through semi-structured interviews and archival documents. To analyze the data, we used a three-step thematization procedure, which included data condensation, data presentation and conclusion.

Findings

The findings present the determinants of knowledge loss, including high time pressure, memory decay, lack of sharing of personal knowledge and tenuous relationships between salary and experience. For knowledge retention, the findings provide evidence of the transformation of the working environment, externalization, job shadowing, the hiring and rehiring individuals and the provision of incentives.

Originality/value

By examining knowledge loss and retention in interorganizational projects, this article contributes to the literature on knowledge-based theory.
ERP systems and operational efficiency: comparison of the effectiveness of implementing foreign and domestic systems
Authors: Naidenova Iuliia , Smirnov Aleksei
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study examines the effectiveness of enterprise resource planning (ERP) system implementation in Russian companies, considering the vendor’s country of origin and the context of sanctions.

Design/methodology/approach

To estimate the impact of implementation, the event study method is employed, with a control group selected using propensity scores matching to address the issue of systematic self-selection. Operational efficiencies are calculated using the Stochastic Frontier Estimation method. The impact of the vendor’s country and the sanctions context is evaluated using regression analysis. The dataset comprises large manufacturing companies in Russia that adopted ERP systems between 2007 and 2021.

Findings

The results show that Russian companies benefit in operational efficiency even during the preparation phase for ERP implementation, and this effect persists up to a year post-implementation, after which it diminishes. Additionally, companies implementing ERP systems of foreign vendors gain more from the implementation. Moreover, the sanctions context drives an increase in operational efficiency. Furthermore, initially less efficient firms receive greater benefits from the implementation of ERP systems, while efficient firms receive smaller gains in operational efficiency.

Originality/value

This study offers new insights into how the choice of domestic or foreign vendor influences the impact of ERP adoption on operational efficiency in emerging economies. Our methodological contribution lies in extending the framework for analyzing operational efficiency to include firms with negative operating income, which is important in the context of emerging markets and turbulent environments.
Modeling telemedicine continuance usage: findings from PLS-SEM and fsQCA
Authors: Chandra Chanda Razib , Vafaei-Zadeh Ali , Hanifah Haniruzila , Nikbin Davoud , Chang Ruiqi
Published: February 2025

Purpose

With the pandemic reshaping healthcare delivery, telemedicine has emerged as a vital solution for overcoming access barriers, particularly in resource-constrained settings. Hence, this study explores the key drivers behind the sustained use of telemedicine services in low-income countries during the post-pandemic period.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a quantitative research approach and purposive sampling technique, 273 valid responses were gathered from participants in Bangladesh. A comparative analysis utilizing partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) were conducted to ensure greater accuracy.

Findings

The PLS-SEM analysis revealed that expectation confirmation and perceived ease of use positively influence satisfaction. Similarly, perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use directly impact Attitude toward telemedicine services. However, perceived usefulness and perceived security were not significantly associated with satisfaction and attitude toward telemedicine services, respectively. The findings highlight that user satisfaction drives continuance use intention for telemedicine services, but only when it also cultivates a positive attitude toward telemedicine services. While the PLS-SEM findings indicate that perceived usefulness has no significant relationship with satisfaction and perceived security is not significantly associated with attitude toward telemedicine services, the fsQCA results offer a different perspective. fsQCA reveals that perceived usefulness retains a significant association with satisfaction and that perceived security, regardless of whether its effect is high or low, is equally effective in contributing to the intention for continuous telemedicine use. These findings underscore fsQCA’s ability to provide deeper insights into the complex causal relationships among the antecedents.

Practical implications

The findings provide valuable insights for hospitals, doctors and telemedicine providers on retaining existing users. Additionally, governments can leverage this information to address healthcare disparities between urban and rural areas. The study also identifies strategies to reduce costs and improve the efficiency of healthcare services.

Originality/value

This study advances telemedicine research by employing the extended technology continuance theory (ETCT) alongside a hybrid analytical approach that integrates PLS-SEM and fsQCA. It highlights that telemedicine organizations can boost patient confidence and encourage continued use by enhancing satisfaction and cultivating a positive user attitude. The innovative use of ETCT and the combined methodologies provide a comprehensive analysis, offering actionable strategies to retain telemedicine users in low-income countries during the post-pandemic period.
Top management team stability, corporate social responsibility and firm internationalization speed
Authors: Hu Man , Ding Zhenkuo , Li Longda
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of top management team (TMT) stability on firm internationalization speed, identifying the mediating role of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and moderating the role of institutional distance.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a sample of Chinese companies from 2005 to 2020. This article used ordinary least squares to empirically test the impact of TMT stability on firm internationalization speed.

Findings

Our main findings show that the more stable the TMT, the faster the internationalization speed of the enterprise. CSR mediates the influence of the TMT stability and firm internationalization speed, that is, the stable TMT is more willing to make decisions to assume more CSR based on the long-term sustainable development of the enterprise, thus influencing the firm internationalization speed. The greater institutional distance between the home country and the host country, the stronger the positive impacts of CSR on the firm internationalization speed.

Originality/value

This paper is of reference significance for enterprises to rationally formulate corporate internationalization strategies. We call on multinational enterprises (MNEs) to pay more attention to the TMT stability and the important role of CSR in the internationalization of enterprises in emerging economies.
An insight into the implications of investor sentiment on crash risk in Asia–Pacific stock markets: are uncertainty factors important?
Authors: Nguyen An Tuan , Nguyen Nhung Thi
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to examine the effect of investor sentiment on stock market crash risk in the Asia–Pacific region and the moderating role of uncertainty factors.

Design/methodology/approach

This research uses principal component analysis to construct an investor sentiment index of 17 Asia–Pacific stock markets before analyzing the data through hierarchical regression with the feasible generalized least squares method.

Findings

The empirical results show that investor sentiment has a positive impact on crash risk in the Asia–Pacific stock markets. This impact is more significant in advanced economies compared to emerging markets and developing economies. The nexus between investor sentiment and stock market crash risk is increased by economic policy uncertainty but decreased by uncertainty from pandemics.

Research limitations/implications

This study only investigates the moderating roles of global uncertainty factors but not local uncertainty factors. In addition, the sentiment of different investor groups has not been examined yet.

Practical implications

The findings of this study are relevant for global investors, portfolio managers and policymakers. Investors and portfolio managers can use sentiment indicators to predict downturns and adjust strategies, whereas policymakers can leverage these insights to design regulations that mitigate systemic risks during global uncertainties.

Originality/value

This study expands the literature on the relationship between investor sentiment and stock market crash risk, providing updated insights into sentimental bias in behavioral finance.
A study of the rationality criteria for the configuration of the capacitive six-axis force/torque sensors
Authors: Pu Minghui , Xue Bin , Lin Hu , Feng Haobin , Fan Jiale , Chen Jiahui
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Capacitive six-axis force/torque (F/T) sensors require various configurations to fulfill diverse performance requirements; however, a systematic method to assess the feasibility of any new configuration is lacking. This study aims to propose three criteria for evaluating the rationality of these configurations, enabling a quick determination of the feasibility of the initial structure of the sensor.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used sensitivity isotropy as a performance metric. By examining the signal conversion process from F/T to displacement using the compliance transformation matrix, the authors identified Criterion 1: the symmetry condition. By analyzing the decoupling process of the sensor, the authors discovered Criterion 2: the capacitor arrangement condition. Through the optimization of analog sensors, this study derived Criterion 3: the range and structural parameters conditions. Ultimately, this study designed and fabricated a sensor that fulfills these criteria, thereby demonstrating the feasibility of the approach through its performance.

Findings

By analogy with capacitive six-axis F/T sensors that have demonstrated exceptional performance in recent years, the authors have found that they all meet the criteria proposed in this paper. Furthermore, the sensor designed and fabricated in this study achieves an accuracy of 0.64% FS, surpassing both the accuracy and sensitivity of the commercially available high-performance ATI industrial automation (Gamma) sensor. This underscores the feasibility of this study’s criteria.

Originality/value

By following the configuration guidelines presented in this paper, designers can quickly assess whether a new configuration will perform well at the early stages of the design process. This makes it easier to consider other requirements while meeting the basic performance needs, thereby significantly enhancing design efficiency.
A comparative analysis of error correction procedures for skill acquisition in autistic students
Authors: Rizos Konstantinos , Fattal Sarah , Gouws Marlizanne , Meyer Sophie , Vostanis Athanasios
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to compare the effectiveness of two error correction methods – Model Prompt Switch Repeat (MPSR) and Error Statement, Modelling and Active student Response (ESMASR) – for teaching new skills to autistic students. This study evaluates which method results in faster and more effective skill mastery, measured by the number of trials needed to reach the mastery criterion, and assesses long-term retention of learned skills.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a multiple-treatment reversal design within an Applied Behaviour Analysis framework, this study involved four participants aged 13–15 years. The participants were taught using both MPSR and ESMASR methods, with data collected on how quickly they mastered new skills. Maintenance data were gathered at one and four weeks after teaching to assess skills retention.

Findings

This study found that the MPSR method led to faster and more sustained skill acquisition than ESMASR for most participants. MPSR demonstrated better long-term retention in several cases. These results emphasise the effectiveness of structured error correction procedures in improving learning outcomes for autistic students.

Research limitations/implications

Because of the small sample size and focus on a specific educational setting, the findings of this study may not apply broadly. Future research should test these methods across a wider variety of learners and settings to ensure broader applicability and validation of the results.

Practical implications

This study’s findings offer practical strategies for educators working with autistic students, showing that structured error correction procedures like MPSR can be integrated into daily teaching to improve skill acquisition and retention. These strategies can also inform educator training and instructional planning.

Social implications

This study contributes to a more inclusive education system by offering evidence-based methods that help autistic students succeed. By identifying effective teaching techniques, this research supports efforts to ensure equal educational opportunities for neurodivergent learners.

Originality/value

This study fills a gap in research by comparing two specific error correction methods in an ABA setting, providing fresh insights into which strategies most effectively promote skill acquisition and long-term learning in autistic students. This study also offers practical guidance for educators seeking evidence-based methods to improve student outcomes.
Exploring the factors affecting quality of project delivery in the Nigerian construction industry
Authors: Abdulraheem Aliyyu Abiola , Abdulazeez Agboola Shamsudeen , Bello Abdulkabir Opeyemi , Faruq Mustapha Yusuf , Musa Abdulhakeem Kolawole , Shabi Moshood Olawale
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to explore the factors influencing the quality of project delivery in the Nigerian construction industry, addressing a critical gap in the existing literature and providing insights for improving construction practices in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative analysis of survey data with qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews. The survey gathered data on various factors affecting project quality, while interviews provided contextual understanding and nuanced perspectives from industry professionals.

Findings

This study identifies seven key factors influencing project delivery quality: contractor performance (β = 0.235, p < 0.001), design and materials management (β = 0.180, p < 0.001), documentation and procurement (β = 0.175, p < 0.001), workforce management and skills (β = 0.142, p < 0.001), project management practices (β = 0.153, p < 0.001), budget and financial management (β = 0.139, p < 0.001) and government regulations (β = 0.080, p < 0.001). Contractor performance and design/materials management have the most significant impact, underscoring the need for strong contractor supervision, material standards and efficient design processes. Additionally, effective documentation and procurement are crucial for success, with procurement inefficiencies leading to delays and reduced quality. Workforce competencies also play a major role, as inadequate training and a lack of skilled labour result in construction defects and compromised project outcomes.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations of the study include its focus primarily on industry professionals' perspectives and its limited scope to the Nigerian context. Future research could explore additional stakeholder perspectives and extend the study to other geographical contexts.

Practical implications

The findings offer valuable insights for construction professionals, policymakers, and other stakeholders, informing the development of a tailored approach to enhance quality project delivery in Nigeria. By addressing critical factors identified in the study, stakeholders can mitigate risks, improve project outcomes and contribute to the sustainable development of the construction industry.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the existing literature by comprehensively analysing the factors influencing quality project delivery in the Nigerian construction industry. Integrating quantitative and qualitative data provides a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities inherent in ensuring project quality, offering practical implications for industry practitioners and policymakers.
Naming and Framing: Six Principles for Embedding Health Equity Language in Policy Research, Writing, and Practice
Authors: KAALUND KAMARIA , PEARSON JAY A. , THOUMI ANDREA
Published: February 2025

Policy Points

Science communication and health policy language often fail to adequately define and contextualize systemic barriers—like structural racism and wealth inequity—that contribute to disparities in health outcomes.

Health policy practitioners should understand best practices for communicating research and policy findings to various audiences and understand how to disseminate messages that are culturally and linguistically responsive to different community needs.

As no perfect term exists, adopting health equity language principles can help health policy practitioners avoid dehumanizing and exclusionary language as well as ill‐suited terminology that perpetuates racist systems and leads to inequities in population health.

Context

Language specificity in research, advocacy, and writing is an important tool to ensure more equitable health policies. All health policy practitioners working at the intersection of health care, health policy, and health equity have a role in upholding ethical standards that promote the use of humanizing, inclusive, and antisupremacist language.

Methods

We conducted an environmental scan and synthesized themes across commonly used and publicly available health equity language guides to provide specific guidance to health policy practitioners to inform their policy research, analysis, writing, and dissemination.

Findings

We identify and describe six guiding principles to dismantle systems that work against the goals of health equity through policy‐focused research, writing, and communications. These principles include avoiding blaming language, contextualizing health inequities, acknowledging that systems are not passive, understanding that one‐size‐fits‐all terminology does not exist, seeking input from community members, and paying attention to omissions.

Conclusions

Applying these principles will better equip health policy practitioners to develop or inform equitable policies and meaningfully engage in dialogue with community members to advance equitable health policy.
An Examination of Management of AI‐Triggered Organisational Threats From Communication Practitioners' Perspective
Authors: Zhao Wenqing , Rachwalski Anna , Berndt‐Goke Maranda , Jin Yan
Published: February 2025

The growing demand for using AI in day‐to‐day work in the communication industry brings ethical threats to organisations (i.e., misinformation, discrimination and bias, lack of transparency and disclosure, privacy violation and infringement, and copyright infringement). Meanwhile, organisational communication management also faces threats posed by external AI‐driven disinformation. The internal and external threats boost the urgency of strategy development for effective organisational crisis management. This study, based on an online survey of communication professionals in the US (N = 407), provides timely input to organisations on how to manage AI‐related ethical threats from inside and outside by understanding the perspective of communication practitioners. Building upon extant ethical AI challenges and the theoretical framework of the problem of many hands, this study examines communication professionals' attitudes and perceptions toward both AI ethical threats and strategies proposed to manage those threats, and the predictors of their behavioural intentions regarding threat management. We found that communication practitioners have reservations about being fully transparent about AI use to their clients. To effectively address AI ethical threats, organisations need to consider building a culture of active responsibility to prevent responsibility evasion and impunity, enhancing communication practitioners' awareness and knowledge about the pitfalls of technical systems, and improving practitioners' perceived efficacy of strategies for managing AI ethical threats.
Multifaceted Antipathogenic Activity of Two Novel Natural Products, Chermesiterpenoid B and Chermesiterpenoid B Seco Acid Methyl Ester, Against Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Li Dan‐Dan , Wang Ying , Li Huiyan , Niu Wen‐Xin , Hong Jongki , Jung Jee H. , Lee Joon‐Hee
Published: February 2025

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic human pathogen that causes both acute and chronic infections due to its virulence factors, biofilm formation and the ability to suppress the host immune system. Quorum sensing (QS) plays a key role in regulating these pathogenic traits and also downregulates the expression of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐γ (PPAR‐γ) in host cells. In this study, we isolated two novel natural products from the jellyfish‐derived fungus Penicillium chermesinum, chermesiterpenoid B (Che B) seco acid methyl ester (Che B ester) and Che B. Both compounds act as partial agonists of PPAR‐γ and exhibit anti‐QS activity. Che B ester and Che B were found to inhibit biofilm formation, reduce the production of proteases and decrease the infectivity of P. aeruginosa, all without affecting bacterial growth. In host cells, Che B ester and Che B reduced P. aeruginosa‐induced inflammation by activating PPAR‐γ. This multifaceted function makes these compounds promising candidates for developing new antipathogenic agents against bacterial infections with few side effects.
Fitness and Screen Time at Age 13 Relates to Academic Performance at Age 16
Authors: Kjellenberg Karin , Helgadottír Björg , Ekblom Örjan , Nyberg Gisela
Published: February 2025

Aim

Investigate the longitudinal relationship between physical activity, organised physical activity, fitness, screen time and academic performance among Swedish adolescents.

Methods

Data from 1139 adolescents at age 13, included vigorous physical activity (accelerometry), fitness (submaximal ergometer test), screen time and organised physical activity participation (self‐reported) and academic performance (math and Swedish grades at ages 13 and 16 from registry). Academic performance at age 16 was categorised as A–D (higher grades or pass) or E, F (fail or at‐risk of failing). Multilevel logistic regression models were used to examine the relationships while adjusting for gender, parental education, parental country of birth and academic performance at age 13.

Results

Higher fitness at age 13 was associated with increased odds of receiving A–D at age 16 (OR: 1.04 per mL, 99% CI 1.00, 1.07, p = 0.003). High screen time during weekdays was associated with reduced odds (OR: 0.40, 99% CI 0.20, 0.81, p = 0.001) compared to low screen time.

Conclusion

Academic performance at the end of compulsory school (age 16) was related to fitness and screen time 3 years earlier. These findings create a paradigm for future randomised controlled trials to explore how influencing these factors might affect academic performance.
Neurodevelopment and Growth 2 Years After Probiotic Supplementation in Extremely Preterm Infants: A Randomised Trial
Authors: Wejryd Erik , Marchini Giovanna , Bang Peter , Jonsson Baldvin , Ådén Ulrika , Abrahamsson Thomas
Published: February 2025

Aim

To assess neurodevelopment and growth at 2 years corrected age in children born extremely preterm, supplemented with Limosilactobacillus reuteri or placebo.

Methods

Design: Secondary analysis of register data after randomised double‐blind placebo‐controlled trial.

Setting: Inclusion at two neonatal intensive care units in Sweden. Local follow‐up per national guidelines.

Subjects: 134 infants born at 23–27 weeks' gestation with a birth weight < 1000 g.

Intervention: Daily enteral supplementation with placebo or Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 (2.5 × 108 colony forming units), from within 72 h after birth to postmenstrual week 35–36.

Main outcome measures: Bayley‐III developmental assessment and auxology at 24 ± 3 months corrected age.

Results

Follow‐up data were available for 110 of 117 surviving participants, and 85 children were assessed with Bayley‐III. Mean language score after supplementation with L. reuteri was 90 (95% confidence interval: 85–95) compared to 83 in the placebo group (95% CI: 78–88), p = 0.04. No other significant differences in neurodevelopment or growth were observed.

Conclusion

Supplementation with L. reuteri in extremely preterm infants was not associated with altered growth nor general neurodevelopmental outcomes at 2 years while language index was improved. This is interesting given previously reported early improved growth of head circumference.
Antibiotic Use and Risk of Microscopic Colitis in Older Adults: A Nationwide Self‐Controlled Case Series Study
Authors: Szilcz Máté , Wastesson Jonas W. , Bergman David , Johnell Kristina , Ludvigsson Jonas F.
Published: February 2025

Background

Several drugs have been linked to the risk of microscopic colitis (MC), a condition characterised by watery, non‐bloody diarrhoea. Antibiotics can induce similar symptoms, but their connection to MC remains unclear.

Aim

To investigate the antibiotic‐related risks of MC in adults aged 65 years and older.

Methods

This was a nationwide, self‐controlled case series study including adults aged ≥ 65 years with a new prescription for antibiotics and biopsy‐confirmed, incident MC (Sweden, 2007–17). We identified cases from the nationwide histopathology cohort ESPRESSO individually linked to several registers. Using conditional Poisson regression, we estimated incidence rate ratios (IRR) for four risk periods: on treatment, and 1–14, 15–91, and 92–365 days post‐treatment, compared with the non‐treatment periods in the same individual. We also conducted a negative control outcome analysis to assess whether the association was specific to MC or due to diagnostic workup. E‐values were used to assess robustness to unmeasured confounding.

Results

We identified 2393 persons with incident biopsy‐confirmed MC (median age at diagnosis 74; 67% women). Compared with the non‐treatment periods, the risk of MC in the age‐adjusted analysis increased with antibiotic treatment (IRR: 1.44 [95% CI: 1.13–1.84], E‐value: 2.24), 1–14 days (IRR: 1.12 [0.83–1.49]), 15–91 days (1.12 [0.97–1.31]) and 92–365 days post‐treatment (1.19 [1.07–1.32]). The negative control outcome analysis showed similar risks of biopsy‐confirmed normal mucosa after antibiotic use.

Conclusion

The observed association between antibiotic use and MC may result from detection bias rather than a causal relationship.
Adverse Childhood Experiences, Personality Organization and Suicidal Thoughts: The Mediating Role of Psychache
Authors: Bougar Mojtaba Rahimian , Khodarahimi Siamak , Faraji Zahra , Khavasi Raziye , Moradi Sajede , Hasanvand Banafsheh , Sadeghi Marzieh
Published: February 2025

This study examined the relationships between adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and personality organization with suicidal thoughts through the mediating role of psychache using structural equation modeling (SEM). A total of 200 adult outpatients with mental disorders were included in the descriptive cross‐sectional study using the purposive sampling method based on self‐referral. The data were collected using the Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation (BSSI), Adverse Childhood Experience International Questionnaire (ACE‐IQ), Inventory of Personality Organization (IPO) and Orbach and Mikulincer Mental Pain Scale (OMMP). The results indicated that ACEs, personality organization and psychache explained 72.3% of variations in suicidal thoughts. ACEs, personality organization and psychache have significant positive direct associations with suicidal thoughts. ACEs and personality organization have significantly positive indirect connections to suicidal thoughts through the mediating role of psychache. This study has shown a fitted SEM for the direct and indirect relationships of ACEs and personality organization with suicidal thoughts concerning the mediating role of psychache. These results have implications for the development of psychodynamic interventions and community‐based initiatives for individuals dealing with suicidal thoughts.
Investigation of Complementary Feeding Transition Behaviours in Mothers in the Process of Transition to Complementary Feeding: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Bilgiç Fatma Şule
Published: February 2025

Background

The transition to complementary feeding directly affects child health. In this period, economic and cultural factors affect the transition to complementary feeding. The aim of this study was to investigate the transition behaviours of mothers with 6‐month‐old babies who were in the process of transition to complementary feeding.

Method

The cross‐sectional study was conducted between February and April 2024. The study sample consisted of 721 mothers with 6‐month‐old babies. The data were obtained through snowball sampling method on the online platform. The study focused on mothers' demographic and Transition to Complementary Feeding Behaviors Scale (TCFBS) results. Data were obtained on an online platform. Difference, correlation and regression analyses were performed.

Results

The mean age of the mothers included in the study was 27.58 ± 3.87. The TCFBS total score of the mothers included in the study was 92.01 ± 15.18. There was a statistically significant difference between the education and income status of the mothers and the gender of the baby and TCFBS total score (p < 0.05). According to the regression analysis, it is possible to explain approximately 46.4% of the variable of transition behaviour to complementary feeding in dependent mothers with the gender of the baby and the educational status of the mother.

Conclusion

Complementary feeding transition behaviour of mothers in the process of transition to complementary feeding was found to be positive. It was found that the complementary feeding behaviour of the mothers was affected by the gender of the baby and education, and the transition to complementary feeding behaviours of mothers with female babies and university graduates were positive. It can be said that mothers need care and counselling from midwives and nurses in this period.
‘Talk to Us, Not About Us’: Children's Understandings and Experiences of Participation in Australian Family Law
Authors: Dimopoulos Georgina , Hew Eliza , Vosz Meaghan , Walsh Helen
Published: February 2025

A hive of recent policy and legislative activity in Australian family law has emphasized the importance of children's right to participate in decision‐making following parental separation. Yet a powerful tension persists between supporting children's right to participation and protecting children from parental conflict. While children have called for ‘a bigger voice, more of the time’ in family law decision‐making processes, research is yet to examine what ‘participation’ means, looks like and feels like, for children in this context. This article presents the findings of interviews with 41 children, aged 10 to 19, about their experiences of participation in decision‐making about their lives after their parents' separation. It explores children's understandings of participation as a concept and the value they ascribe to their right to express their views and be heard. It also highlights supportive factors shaping, and barriers impeding, the fulfilment of this right in Australian family law. The article suggests how an understanding of the notion of participation that is informed by the views, needs and experiences of children themselves can shape Australian family law, policy and practice.
Examining the Impact of Microglia on Ischemic Stroke With an Emphasis on the Metabolism of Immune Cells
Authors: Lv Jing , Jiao Yang , Zhao Xinya , Kong Xin , Chen Yanwei , Li Lu , Chen Xuyang , Tao Xufeng , Dong Deshi
Published: February 2025

Background

Ischemic stroke, a major cause of disability and the second leading cause of death, poses a significant public health challenge. Post‐stroke inflammation can harm the blood–brain barrier and worsen neurological deficits, which are key factors in neuronal damage in patients with ischemic stroke. Microglia are crucial in the central nervous system, involved in inflammation, neuronal damage, and repair after cerebral ischemia. While cellular immune metabolism has been widely studied, its role in ischamic stroke remains unclear.

Aim

This review aims to examine how inflammation affects the phenotypic characteristics of immune cells after ischemic stroke and to explore the effects of the immune metabolic microenvironment on the phenotypic profiles and functions of microglia in ischemic stroke.

Method

The review refers to the available literature in PubMed, searching for critical terms related to Ischemic stroke, neuroinflammation, microglia, and immunometabolism.

Result

In this review, we found that during stroke progression, microglia can dynamically switch between pro‐inflammatory and anti‐inflammatory phenotypes. Microglial glycometabolism includes oxidative phosphorylation and glycolysis, and lipid metabolism involves lipid synthesis and breakdown. Modulating the production of inflammatory mediator precursors can induce an anti‐inflammatory phenotype in microglia.

Conclusion

Thus, studying microglial metabolic pathways and their products may offer new insights for ischemic stroke treatment.
Hybrid Telemedicine and In‐Person Care for Kidney Transplant Follow‐Up: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Esayed Suad , Kim Ellie , Sung Hannah C. , Al‐Seraji Abdula , Adeyemo Simeon , Troutt Hayden , Tantisattamoa Ekamol , Ferrey Antoney , Reddy Uttam G. , Malik Fatima T. , Redfield Robert R. , Ichii Hirohito , Muzaale Abimereki D. , Malhotra Divyanshu , Al Ammary Fawaz
Published: February 2025

Background

Kidney transplant recipients are immunocompromised and require lifelong follow‐up. Recipients face geographic, socioeconomic, and logistical challenges when seeking follow‐up that can be alleviated using telemedicine. We aimed to understand patient experiences and preferences regarding telemedicine video visits and highlight insights to advance adopting hybrid telemedicine/in‐person transplant care.

Methods

We conducted qualitative in‐depth, semi‐structured interviews with kidney transplant recipients between November 18, 2022, and January 11, 2023. Participants had follow‐up at ≥12 months post‐transplant via telemedicine at a tertiary transplant center. Study enrollment continued until data saturation was reached (n = 20 participants) when no new information emerged from additional interviews. Transcripts were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis.

Results

Participants median age was 58 years (IQR, 52–72), and 50% were female, 45% were White, 30% were Black, 15% were Asian, 10% were Hispanic/Other persons, and 30% were out‐of‐state residents. We identified the following seven themes: (1) reducing travel time, (2) minimizing financial burden (decreasing travel‐related expenses and lost wages), (3) engaging patients within their comfort space, (4) establishing rapport with patients, (5) limitations of the virtual physical exam, (6) enhancing access to transplant providers (maximizing adherence to follow‐up), and (7) lowering risk of communicable diseases.

Conclusions

Integrating telemedicine with in‐person visits enhances post‐transplant follow‐up care. A hybrid model should leverage the strengths of both modalities, ensuring patient access to care and being patient‐centered and flexible. Efforts are needed to advance technological tools in physical examination and human connection, and assess patient outcomes. Policymakers and healthcare systems need to incentivize the adoption and expansion of telemedicine in transplant care.
Pain in adults with cerebral palsy: A systematic review
Authors: Ryan Jennifer M. , Burke Jessica , Byrne Rachel , Capellari Emily , Harvey Adrienne , O'Connell Neil E. , Omichinski Donna , Rodby‐Bousquet Elisabet , Peterson Mark ,   The Adult CP Clinical Practice Guideline Working Group
Published: February 2025

Aim

To describe the prevalence and incidence of pain, identify prognostic factors for pain, determine psychometric properties of tools to assess pain, and evaluate effectiveness of interventions for reducing pain among adults with cerebral palsy (CP).

Method

Six databases were searched to identify studies published since 1990 in any language that met eligibility criteria defined for each objective. Titles, abstracts, and full texts were screened by two independent reviewers.

Results

Sixty‐three studies were identified; 47 reporting prevalence, 28 reporting prognostic factors, four reporting psychometric properties, five evaluating intervention effectiveness. Pain prevalence ranged from 24% to 89%. Prevalence was higher among adults with CP than in adults without it. Communication function, sex, and age were prognostic factors for pain prevalence. Numerical, verbal, and pictorial rating scales were valid for assessing pain intensity in adults with CP. Pharmacological and surgical interventions had no effect on pain. An active lifestyle and sports intervention reduced pain in adults with CP compared with usual care.

Interpretation

Many adults with CP experience pain, although prevalence estimates vary considerably. The quality of evidence for prognostic factors and interventions is very low to low. There is a lack of evidence about effective pain management among adults with CP.
Chronic optogenetic stimulation of dentate gyrus granule cells in mouse organotypic slice cultures synaptically drives mossy cell degeneration
Authors: Koretz Carolin Christina , Schneider Rebecca , Jungenitz Tassilo , Drakew Alexander , Roeper Jochen , Deller Thomas
Published: February 2025

Objective

Degeneration of hilar mossy cells in the dentate gyrus is an important hallmark of hippocampal sclerosis and is often observed in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy. To understand the pathogenesis of hippocampal sclerosis and develop novel neuroprotective treatments, it is critical to determine the mechanistic processes of mossy cell degeneration and factors that influence cell vulnerability or resilience. However, suitable in vitro approaches are currently lacking. We have developed and validated an organotypic slice culture‐based in vitro model that facilitates mechanistic studies of activity‐dependent mossy cell vulnerability and resilience.

Methods

A model was developed using entorhino‐hippocampal slice cultures. Dentate gyrus granule cells were transduced with adeno‐associated viruses to express channelrhodopsin2. Transduced cultures were chronically stimulated by light, and resulting cell damage was assessed by propidium iodide staining. Spontaneous synaptic activity before and after optical stimulation was recorded using whole‐cell patch‐clamp.

Results

Selective and dose‐dependent hilar neuron degeneration was observed following chronic optogenetic stimulation of organotypic slice cultures expressing channelrhodopsin‐2 in granule cells. Treatment with the anticonvulsant retigabine reduced stimulation‐induced hilar neuron loss in a dose‐dependent manner. This demonstrates the suitability of our optogenetic in vitro model for drug screening. Patch‐clamp recordings verified strong synaptic activation of mossy cells during optical stimulation and a reduction in spontaneous excitatory synaptic activity after stimulation.

Significance

The role of mossy cells in the context of epileptic seizures has been a controversial topic of discussion. The presented in vitro model allows the study of mossy cell vulnerability on a single‐cell level and provides the first evidence for changes in synaptic activity after stimulation. This model will facilitate our mechanistic understanding of temporal lobe epilepsy, providing a foundation for novel therapeutic interventions aimed at preserving mossy cell function in epilepsy patients.
Work‐from‐home arrangements and work–family conflict during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Jung Nahri , Kim Minseop , Zhou Ying
Published: February 2025

Objective

The current study examined how work‐from‐home arrangements during the pandemic have influenced work–family conflict experienced by parents.

Background

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, many countries implemented full or partial lockdowns in which people were required or advised to work from home. These arrangements have considerably blurred the boundary between the domains of work and family and raise questions about how work‐from‐home arrangements during the pandemic have influenced work–family conflict experienced by parents.

Method

In 2021, this study collected survey data from a sample of working parents with young children in Hong Kong (N = 278). Structural equation modeling was used to investigate the association between working from home and the two forms of work–family conflict (i.e., work‐to‐family conflict and family‐to‐work conflict).

Results

The results of structural equation modeling found that working from home was associated with lower levels of work‐to‐family conflict, and such effects were observed for both mothers and fathers. However, working from home was found to have a nonsignificant association with family‐to‐work conflict. Instead, family‐to‐work conflict was affected by the spouse's work‐from‐home status, as higher levels of family‐to‐work conflict were detected when spouses were unable to use work‐from‐home arrangements.

Conclusion

This study indicates that working from home served as a family‐friendly work option during the pandemic, despite the sudden and involuntary circumstances of its adoption.

Implications

The adoption of work‐from‐home arrangements during the pandemic led to a reduction in work–family conflict, and these positive effects of working from home hold significant policy implications for the post‐pandemic era.
Moult is associated with higher diversity of food items in the diet of Common Bulbuls (Pycnonotus barbatus) in Cameroon
Authors: Jarrett Crinan , Nwaogu Chima J. , Tchana Christian N. , Kamkeng Michelle F. M. , Quiñones Alma L. S. , Olguin‐Villa Monica C. , Helm Barbara , Powell Luke L. , Welch Andreanna J.
Published: February 2025

Moult is an essential part of birds' annual cycle, and requires sufficient intake of energy and nutrients, but we understand little about how such nutritional requirements are met by wild birds. Using faecal metabarcoding, we analysed the diet of moulting and non‐moulting Common Bulbuls Pycnonotus barbatus, captured in Cameroon. We found that the diet of moulting birds was more diverse than that of non‐moulting birds, with approximately 1.5 times more arthropod and plant taxa, plus evidence of dietary composition differences between groups. Our results provide novel insight of a likely strategy used by wild birds to fuel the essential self‐maintenance task of moult.
Finding a mix of renewable energy for different stakeholders by applying multi‐criteria decision‐making techniques
Authors: Bilbao‐Terol Amelia , Cañal‐Fernández Verónica , González‐Pérez Carmen
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a two‐stage model for planning a renewable energy portfolio by balancing economic, social and environmental sustainability goals. The first stage addresses a multi‐objective problem where conflictive impacts generated by the energy portfolios should be optimised according to the corresponding economic, social or environmental profile. A parametric goal programming with a fuzzy hierarchy model, an alternative to the weighted and lexicographic goal programming models, is built. The second stage, comprising three steps, identifies the best energy mix for each profile. First, preferential weights are determined economically and flexibly by the decision‐maker (DM) using the extended best‐worst method. Then, a valuation process is applied to each portfolio's deviation vectors, and the transformed deviation vectors are ranked using the technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) method. Applied to Spain, the results reveal significant conflict in the social profile, especially regarding total employment, which shows the greatest disagreement with other impacts. In contrast, the economic and environmental profiles exhibit low divergence among their key impacts. This work suggests that policymaking in renewable energy requires a balanced approach and, sometimes, the acceptance of unavoidable trade‐offs between objectives. Our proposal guides the search for energy portfolios with strong DM intervention.