bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intra-leaf modeling ofCannabisleaflet shape produces leaf models that predict genetic and developmental identities
Authors: Balant Manica , Garnatje Teresa , Vitales Daniel , Hidalgo Oriane , Chitwood Daniel H.
Published: August 2023

The iconic, palmately compound leaves ofCannabishave attracted significant attention in the past. However, investigations into the genetic basis of leaf shape or its connections to phytochemical composition have yielded inconclusive results. This is partly due to prominent changes in leaflet number within a single plant during development, which has so far prevented the proper use of common morphometric techniques.

Here we present a new method that overcomes the challenge of nonhomologous landmarks in palmate, pinnate and lobed leaves, usingCannabisas an example. We model corresponding pseudo-landmarks for each leaflet as angle-radius coordinates and model them as a function of leaflet to create continuous polynomial models, bypassing the problems associated with variable number of leaflets between leaves.

We analyze 341 leaves from 24 individuals from nineCannabisaccessions. Using 3,591 pseudo-landmarks in modeled leaves, we accurately predict accession identity, leaflet number, and relative node number.

Intra-leaf modeling offers a rapid, cost-effective means of identifyingCannabisaccessions, making it a valuable tool for future taxonomic studies, cultivar recognition, and possibly chemical content analysis and sex identification, in addition to permitting the morphometric analysis of leaves in any species with variable numbers of leaflets or lobes.
Ser149 is another potential 14-3-3 ε binding site of Cdc25B in the G2/M transition of mouse fertilized eggs
Authors: He Wen-Ning , Pang Hai-Yao , Hou Yan-Jun , Feng Shao-Qing , Zhang Hui-Ling , Guo Wen-Xiu , Liu Ru , Meng Jun
Published: August 2023

Cell cycle division 25B (CDC25B) belongs to the family of cell cycle regulatory proteins. It drives G2/M transition by activating cyclin-dependent protein kinases (CDK1), also known as CDC2, whose activity is directly related to its subcellular localization and phosphorylation state.14-3-3 (YHWA) regulates cell division cycle by binding to Cdc25B as a chaperone protein in mammals. Previously, we found that Cdc25B-Ser149 plays an important role in G2/M transition of mouse fertilized eggs, but the molecular mechanism of this transition remains unclear. In this study, we assessed the role of 14-3-3ε (YHWAE) interaction with phosphorylated Cdc25B-Ser149 in G2/M transition of mouse fertilized eggs. Co-expression of Cdc25B-Ser149A and 14-3-3ε could effectively activate maturation promoting factor (MPF) through direct dephosphorylation of Cdc2-Tyr15, and induce G2 fertilized eggs to enter mitosis rapidly. However, co-expression of the phosphomimic Cdc25B-Ser149D or Cdc25B-WT and 14-3-3ε showed no significant difference in comparison with control groups. 14-3-3ε binds to Cdc25B-WT, which is abolished when Ser149 is mutated to Ala. In addition, we found that 14-3-3ε and Cdc25B were co-localized in the cytoplasm at the G1, S and early G2 phases. Cdc25B was translocated from the cytoplasm to the nucleus at the late G2 phase. However, when Ser149 is mutated to Ala, the cytoplasmic localization of Cdc25B is completely abolished. Our findings suggest that Cdc25B-Ser149 is another specific binding site for 14-3-3ε in G2/M transition of one-cell fertilized mouse eggs, which plays essential roles in the regulation of early development of fertilized mouse eggs.
Responding to the imprecisions of social enterprise identity: considering the role of participatory governance
Authors: Savall Morera Teresa , Solórzano-García Marta , Guzmán Carmen
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This study aims to understand the importance of participatory governance in the identity of social enterprises (SEs). To this end, this paper provides a framework by means of the value co-creation process and by drawing from the service-dominant logic perspective and the stakeholder theory. An explanation is also provided regarding the opportunity to include fundamental issues in defining SE collective identity, such as those related to an organisation’s participatory nature of involving the stakeholders affected by its activities, the exercise of democratic decision-making and its autonomy from the state and market.

Design/methodology/approach

On the statistical exploitation of a large international data set, the authors approach the conceptualisation of SEs by providing an index to measure their social, economic and governance characteristics, thereby enabling these enterprises to be categorised into different groups.

Findings

This study found that the inclusion of the governance dimension in the research incorporates the greatest variability between the various models of SE, thereby justifying participatory governance as the raison d’être of the two fundamental schools in SE, namely, Anglo-Saxon and European.

Practical implications

This research offers a tool to policymakers to be used as a criterion of classification and hierarchical organisation for public procurement. It enables the various organisations to be ordered and takes social and cultural influence into consideration. This tool would be highly useful as a support of social entrepreneurship from the public environment, especially at the local level.

Originality/value

This study justifies the value of incorporating participatory governance as a distinctive dimension for the definition of categories of SEs. Furthermore, an index to craft taxonomies of SEs is developed based on social, economic and governance indicators, which provides a framework that facilitates the empirical research of the SE.
How creative vouchers can allocate public resources for innovation effectively
Authors: Coletti Michele , Landoni Paolo
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The purpose is to assess the usefulness of creative vouchers, a specific kind of technology and innovation vouchers (small grants usually given to SMEs to acquire external knowledge) where the knowledge suppliers are creative firms such as design agencies.

Design/methodology/approach

A multiple case analysis of four EU-funded pilot voucher schemes was carried out through project reports and semi-structured interviews with relevant stakeholders.

Findings

The authors show that creative vouchers are effective policy instruments despite the limited amount of money involved because they trigger new innovation trajectories often in a serendipitous way. The authors also show that the quality of projects and satisfaction of the beneficiaries increase when both proposals and suppliers are screened.

Research limitations/implications

The authors’ conclusions are based on four pilot projects in a specific region of the world (Western Europe). Though two of them were extended to a much bigger scale, their generalizability may be limited. Moreover, the limited number of cases does not permit an analytical evaluation of all the voucher schemes mechanisms.

Practical implications

The findings of this paper can be very useful to policymakers designing voucher schemes and to the companies involved, whether they are providers or beneficiaries. In particular, the voucher allocation mechanisms may have a strong impact on the success of the program.

Social implications

The innovation spurred by the collaboration with creative firms is generally neither energy-intensive nor capital intensive, but brain intensive, and this is the best way to leverage on the talent of local creative and make companies create value based on immaterial resources.

Originality/value

To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study of creative vouchers after Bakhsi et al., 2015, and the only one involving several schemes in different countries. It shows the innovation potential of such a little known policy instrument for SMEs. Moreover, it provides insight on how to design a voucher scheme in order to improve its effectiveness.
Climate change perception and adaptation among farmers in coastal communities of Bayelsa State, Nigeria: a photovoice study
Authors: Elum Zelda Anne , Snijder Mieke
Published: August 2023

Purpose

There is an increasing need for greater awareness and understanding of the risks climate change poses to farming communities so as to inform appropriate adaptive responses. The purpose of this study is to investigate farmers’ climate change impacts, awareness, risk perception and current adaptation strategies adopted to deal with the impacts of climate change on their livelihood.

Design/methodology/approach

This research was undertaken with 67 farmers in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. This study used a combination of focus group discussion and quantitative survey to obtain data. Surveyed farmers were invited to an initial workshop and asked to take photos of climate change impacts on their land and the adaptation strategies being adopted. The photos were analysed and discussed with the farmers in a second workshop. Then, in a third workshop, farmers and other stakeholders came together to rank the most important consequences of climate change and shared knowledge on adaptation strategies. The survey and photovoice data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Findings

The results of this study showed that a majority of the farmers were knowledgeable of climate change, mostly got climate information through media. Floods and high temperatures were perceived as the most occurring climate change-related disaster risks. Majority of the farmers perceived climate change as high risk and have taken up multiple adaptation strategies in response to it, including changing planting times, mulching their land and digging irrigation pits. Farmers’ responses indicated that they want to do more but are restricted by financial resources.

Practical implications

This study outcomes provide evidence for a need to consider stakeholders’ participation in planning climate change responses to effectively address the challenges posed by climate change, particularly in coastal agricultural communities. Government and relevant agencies as recommended need to support farmers to undertake needed adaptive strategies to adapt with future flooding, high temperature and drought, providing them with necessary facilities to enhance their adaptive capacities.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this was one of the first studies to use photovoice to investigate climate change awareness, impacts and adaptations strategies with majority female farmers in west Africa. This study highlights the importance of participatory approaches to capture grassroots climate adaptation approaches.
Does injustice perception threaten organizational performance in the healthcare setting? A sequential mediation examination
Authors: Khan Mukaram Ali , Kumar Jeetesh , Shoukat Muhammad Haroon , Selem Kareem M.
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the role of perceived organizational injustice (POI) leading to workplace conflict in determining organizational performance (OP) among healthcare employees. This paper also examines the serial mediating effects of moral disengagement (MD) and knowledge hiding (KH).

Design/methodology/approach

In all, 244 public and private hospital employees in Pakistan provided the data set.

Findings

According to partial least squares-structural equation modeling findings, the negative association between POI and OP was serially mediated by KH and MD. The recovery process underlying the linkage between POI and OP is tested and highlighted in this paper as a first step in unraveling it.

Research limitations/implications

The findings highlight the significance of taking moral and KH models into account when attempting to understand the moral cognitive processes that employees go through when they see injustice. Organizations should guarantee the equitable distribution of incentives and resources, as distributive and procedural justices are concerned with organizations.

Originality/value

By directing actions meant to prevent MD and KH, the findings may potentially inspire new, more focused treatments to safeguard patient safety and avoid losses in the healthcare industry. One way to reduce unethical conduct and MD is to have people declare or agree to a code of ethics.
Effects of film cooling holes on vibration characteristics of aeroengine turbine blades
Authors: An Bo , Wu Junnan
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the effect of film cooling holes on the vibration characteristics of a turbine blade, and provide the design basis for the blade, which may reduce computing costs.

Design/methodology/approach

Modal analysis of the blades with and without film cooling holes is performed to evaluate the effect of film cooling holes on its natural frequency. Harmonic analysis of the blade is performed to calculate the stress concentration factors of film cooling holes for different modes.

Findings

The frequency differences between two blades with and without film cooling holes are insignificant, while the differences of the vibration stress cannot be neglected. For the first three modes of the blades, the stress concentration factor is sensitive to the hole’s shape and position on the blade. With the help of the stress concentration factor defined in this work, the concentration of stresses induced by different film cooling holes can be accurately described when evaluating HCF life of the turbine blade.

Originality/value

The effect of film cooling holes on a turbine blade's natural frequencies was confirmed to be insignificant and the stress concentration factors around the holes are calculated. Therefore, the simplified model of the blade without film cooling holes can be used to evaluate the natural frequencies and vibration stress, which saves a lot of time and cost.
The role of skepticism among adolescents’ online information literacy skills
Authors: Ritzhaupt Albert D. , Kohnen Angela Marie , Wusylko Christine , Wang Xiaoman , Dawson Kara , Sommer Max
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the role skepticism plays among adolescents’ online information literacy skills.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors provide the conceptual grounding to operationalize and measure the notion of skepticism in an online information literacy context. Inspired by an existing measure known as the Skepticism Scale (Hurtt, 2010), the authors made substantial revisions to the scale to target middle school and high school students’ skepticism in six distinct, but related factors: questioning mind; search for knowledge; suspension of judgment; self-esteem; interpersonal understanding; and autonomy. The authors provide preliminary evidence of validity and reliability of the revised Skepticism Scale using Exploratory Factor Analysis and performed multiple linear regression using the Skepticism Scale measures to predict an adolescents’ online information literacy skills.

Findings

The Skepticism Scale was found to produce internally consistent constructs for all six measures. Three of the six measures were related to online information literacy skills, including the search for knowledge, interpersonal understanding and questioning mind.

Originality/value

This paper attempts to examine the potentially positive role of skepticism in information literacy skills among adolescents.
Integration of a gas pressure chamber on a reciprocal tribometer for experiments at ambient pressures up to 10 bar
Authors: Ausserer Florian , Velkavrh Igor , Kafexhiu Fevzi , Gachot Carsten
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This study aims to focus on the development of an experimental setup for testing tribological pairings under a gas atmosphere at pressures up to 10 bar.

Design/methodology/approach

A pressure chamber allowing oscillating movement through an outer shaft was constructed and mounted on an oscillating tribometer. Due to a metal spring bellows system, a methodology for the evaluation of the coefficient of friction values separately from the spring forces was developed.

Findings

The selected material concept was qualitatively and quantitatively assessed. An evaluation of the static and the dynamic coefficient of friction was performed, which was crucial for the understanding of the adhesion effects of the tested material pairing. The amount of information that is lost due to averaging the measured friction values is higher than one would expect.

Originality/value

The developed experimental setup is unique and, compared with the existing tribometers for testing under gas ambient pressures, allows testing under contact conditions that are closer to real applications, such as compressors and expanders. An in-depth observation of the adhesion and stick–slip effects of the tested material pairings is possible as well.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-06-2023-0173/
Does IFRS convergence affect the readability of annual reports by Indian listed companies?
Authors: Saravanan R. , Mohammad Firoz , Kumar Praveen
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of IFRS convergence on annual report readability in an emerging market context, with an emphasis on the contents of management discussion and analysis (MD&A), notes to the accounts (Notes) and the whole annual report.

Design/methodology/approach

The study performs firm-fixed effect regression on a sample of 143 Indian listed companies over a period spanning from 2012 to 2021 to examine the influence of IFRS convergence on readability. This assessment primarily focuses on broader spectrums of readability dimensions, namely annual report length and complexity, wherein complexity is measured using the Gunning Fog, Flesch Reading ease and Flesch-Kincaid grade index.

Findings

As Indian firms shift to IFRS reporting, the findings suggest that annual reports have become significantly lengthier and more complex, causing deterioration in readability. The Notes section, in particular, exhibits the most significant increase in length and complexity, followed by the entire annual report and MD&A section. Furthermore, the findings also indicate that the complexity of the Notes section is instrumental in the observed complexity growth of the whole annual report in the post-IFRS period.

Research limitations/implications

The current study employs readability indices rather than directly taking into consideration the opinions of actual users of annual reports to determine readability. As a result, the study does not provide direct evidence on how information in annual reports affects users' readability.

Practical implications

The findings provide insightful information to managers and policymakers about the difficulties stakeholders may encounter while reading IFRS-based annual reports, which ultimately impact their investment decisions. Thus, there is an important managerial implication from this, depending upon the severity of complexity corporations participate in while complying with IFRS in the post-IFRS period.

Originality/value

Analyzing the influence of exogenous information shock, such as IFRS convergence, on readability is critical, particularly for emerging markets like India, where a lack of financial literacy and weaker enforcement already have detrimental effects on the capital market. In light of this, the current study provides a comprehensive examination of the impact of IFRS convergence on annual report readability and contributes to the growing IFRS literature in the less explored emerging market context.
Prevalence scores: an addition to behaviour sequence analysis
Authors: Keatley David , Marono Abbie J. , Clarke David D.
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Behaviours occur across complex, dynamic timelines. Research methods to analyse these complex timelines have repeatedly used behaviour sequence analysis (BSA) as a primary method. Traditional BSA outputs, however, are limited in that they do not show how prevalent a behaviour sequence is throughout a sample or group. Until now, how many people in a sample showed the sequence was not analysed and reported. This paper aims to provide a new metric to calculate prevalence scores in BSA data sets.

Design/methodology/approach

Open access recorded responses including nonverbal communication of deceptive and truthful individuals were analysed initially with a standard BSA approach and then the prevalence scores of transitions were calculated.

Findings

Prevalence scores offered new insights into the distribution of sequences across groups. The prevalence score showed differences in which transitions were seen across the truthful and guilty samples. This offers new approaches to analysing nonverbal communication.

Originality/value

This is the first paper to provide a prevalence score for BSA research and show how it can be used in applied research. The current prevalence score metric is provided and suggested for all future research into sequences.
Whywe (do not) share data in German real estate – a reasoned action approach
Authors: Wiesweg Niklas
Published: August 2023

Purpose

German (corporate-) real estate management departments have been facing the challenge of poor data quality for years. This holds them back from generating efficiency potentials via the use of new methods from the field of digitalisation and from coping with the increasing requirements from the ESG context. The purpose of this paper is to explore why German (corporate-) real estate managements (do not) share data with their real estate service providers to address the data quality challenge and identify possible solutions.

Design/methodology/approach

To answer the research question, the reasoned action approach, an established theory from psychology for predicting human behaviour, is used. The relationships between the constructs are determined using linear regression. The study participants are almost exclusively from Germany.

Findings

The organisational milieu (perceived behavioural control) has a significant impact on the behaviour of sharing data with real estate service providers. Especially the change of contractual arrangements (data-driven contracts) seems to be crucial for the improvement of information logistics.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, for the first time, the reasoned action approach is used within the German real estate industry to predict organisational behaviour in the context of digitalisation.
Does information asymmetry mediate the relationship between voluntary disclosure and cost of capital? Evidence from a developing economy
Authors: Abu Afifa Malik Muneer , Saadeh Mustafa
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the relationship between voluntary disclosure and the cost of capital as a direct relationship and as an indirect relationship mediated by information asymmetry. It provides evidence from Jordan as a developing economy.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample was selected from the companies listed in the first market of the Amman Stock Exchange during the period 2010–2019. Four exclusion criteria were used in selecting the companies for analysis.

Findings

The findings show that the cost of capital and information asymmetry are negatively affected by voluntary disclosure, as well as that the cost of capital is positively affected by information asymmetry. In addition, information asymmetry does not mediate the relationship between voluntary disclosure and the cost of capital.

Originality/value

This research looks at the mediating effect of information asymmetry in the relationship between voluntary disclosure and the cost of capital; thus, it provides new explanations about it using empirical evidence from a developing economy. As a necessary consequence, this research has the potential to significantly contribute to the existing body of knowledge and literature in this field.
Adoption of blockchain technology in organizations: from morality, ethics and sustainability perspectives
Authors: Chatterjee Sheshadri , Chaudhuri Ranjan , Vrontis Demetris , V.V. Ajith Kumar
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine how the adoption of blockchain technology can improve organizational sustainability and what are the contributions of morality, ethics and governance in this scenario.

Design/methodology/approach

This study has used different literature and theories to build a successful theoretical model and then validated it using the partial least squares structural equation modeling approach. Various statistical modeling analyses have been performed to test the robustness of the proposed model, which is found to be effective and unique as it has a high explanatory power.

Findings

This study has found that adoption of blockchain technology can improve the sustainability performance of organizations. It has also highlighted that organizational sustainability will be further enhanced if the underlying algorithms of blockchain technology are transparent to make the applications moral and ethical. This study has further demonstrated that appropriate governance of blockchain technology can support the organizations to enhance their sustainability performance.

Research limitations/implications

This study demonstrates the importance of an organization’s governance over blockchain technology and its impact on sustainability. The study provides valuable input to practitioners and policy makers regarding blockchain technology and its governance models. Also, the study provides valuable recommendations to leaders and managers of organizations on how to successfully adopt blockchain technology.

Originality/value

This study presents a unique theoretical model to explain the influence of the adoption of blockchain technology and an organization’s sustainability. The study also adds value to the overall body of literature in the areas of ethics, governance and blockchain technology along with sustainability.
Ethical implications for teaching students to hack to combat cybercrime and money laundering
Authors: Al-Tawil Tareq Na’el
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Malicious hackers are increasingly evolving with technology by developing advanced tools to infiltrate. They are looking at micro laundering via sites like PayPal or using job advertising sites, to avoid exposure. Micro laundering makes it possible to launder a large amount of money in small amounts through thousands of electronic transactions. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to examine whether the ethical hacking pedagogy is both a feasible and effective approach to prepare information security professionals of the future to combat black hat hacking and other forms of unethical conduct in the cyberspace.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper will specifically explore the ethics and implications of teaching students how to hack. It examines the strengths and limitations of the ethical hacking pedagogy. The discussion will then form the basis for exploring whether ethical hacking pedagogy is logical and justifiable.

Findings

The research has examined whether the ethical hacking pedagogy is an initiative-taking and effective approach to preparing information security professionals. Teaching students to hack is the only feasible approach to preparing future cybersecurity professionals because such training will allow them to master technical skills necessary for penetration testing.

Originality/value

A dominant theme that emerged from the research is the inability to evaluate students’ intention and provide oversight after their graduation. Thus, professional networks and peer groups will play an instrumental role in sustaining students in an environment that fosters ethical conduct.
Exploring UAE's transition towards circular economy through construction and demolition waste management in the pre-construction stage–A case study approach
Authors: Nie Peng , Dahanayake Kalani C. , Sumanarathna Nipuni
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to explore UAE's transition towards circular economy (CE) through construction and demolition waste (CDW) management in the pre-construction stage. The extent of circularity is assessed by five key aspects of CE, such as policies and strategic frameworks, design for waste prevention, design for disassembly or deconstruction, use of prefabricated elements and CDW management plans.

Design/methodology/approach

Multiple case studies were conducted in the context of the Dubai construction industry (UAE). Three significant and unique construction projects were selected as the cases. Semi-structured interviews were carried out to collect data, and the thematic analysis technique and NVIVO 12 software were used for data analysis.

Findings

Findings reveal several positive initiatives towards CE in the UAE context; yet it is identified that the transition is still at the initial stage. Selected case studies, the best-case scenarios of UAE (i.e. influential cases), demonstrated adequate measures in relation to four key CE aspects out of five. For instance, (a) policies and strategic frameworks such as lean standards, green building standards and standards developed by the local authorities, (b) design for waste prevention (e.g. adherence to the 3R principle, and construction planning with BIM), (c) use of prefabricated elements and application of innovative construction technologies (e.g. 3DPC, DfMA) and (d) CDW management planning such as 3R principle were evident. However, the selected cases hardly showcase designing for disassembly or deconstruction.

Research limitations/implications

The existing CDW practices are mostly conventional, as most constructions in UAE are procured through conventional building materials and methods. Therefore, there is a necessity of encouraging CE principles in CDW management. Even though the transition towards CE was evident in four key CE aspects out of five, the UAE construction industry has yet to adopt more effective CE-based CDW management practices to accelerate the circularity. Hence, it is necessary to enforce standard waste management guidelines, including the 3R principle, to standardise CDW management in UAE and encourage construction practitioners to adhere to CE principles.

Originality/value

The findings of this study provide valuable insights for decision-making processes around CDW management towards a CE. This paper contributes to the literature by bridging the CE concept with CDW management in the pre-construction stage. The study provides insights for industry practitioners for planning CE in terms of policies and strategic frameworks, CDW management planning, construction planning and application of innovative construction technologies.
The Grove of Giants: Tasmania's most carbon‐dense forest
Authors: Sanger Jennifer C. , Ferrari Atalaya
Published: August 2023

The Grove of Giants in the Huon Valley of Tasmania, Australia is renowned for its large trees. A team of tree climbers and citizen scientists undertook a carbon assessment of a 2 hectare plot within the Grove of Giants. The largest 16 trees in the plot (>2.5 m DBH) were measured by tree climbers allowing for accurate estimation of tree volume. Understory trees, coarse woody debris, root biomass and soil carbon were also estimated, making this study the most comprehensive assessment of forest carbon in Tasmania. Total forest carbon was estimated to be 1312 tonnes per hectare. Large trees had the highest carbon stocks, accounting for 44% of the total store. Coarse woody debris represented 19% of the forest's carbon, root biomass was 14%, while the understory trees accounted for 12% and soil carbon for 11%. This is the highest carbon stock recorded in Tasmania and is above the average estimates for temperate forest ecosystems in other parts of the world. Protecting Tasmania's forests, especially mature wet Eucalypt forests, is important to avoid potential greenhouse gas emissions and ensure safe storage of the carbon in the land sector.
Does adding hydroxychloroquine to empiric treatment improve the live birth rate in refractory obstetrical antiphospholipid syndrome? A systematic review
Authors: Hooper Allyssa , Bacal Vanessa , Bedaiwy Mohamed A.
Published: August 2023

Problem

The current standard prevention of obstetric complications in patients with antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APS) is the use of combination low‐dose aspirin and low molecular weight heparin. However, 20‐30% of women still experience refractory obstetrical APS. Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) is an immunomodulatory agent that has been shown in laboratory studies to decrease thrombosis risk, support placentation, and minimize the destructive effects of antiphospholipid antibodies. The objective of this study was to evaluate the risk of pregnancy loss upon treatment with HCQ among women with refractory obstetrical APS.

Method of study

A systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. Studies that evaluated the use of HCQ during pregnancy in women with primary APS were included. The primary outcomes of interest were live birth and pregnancy losses after treatment with HCQ.

Results

Twelve studies met inclusion criteria. Three retrospective cohort studies demonstrated improved live birth rate, and four studies demonstrated a reduction in pregnancy loss rate. Two case reports also demonstrated a benefit in the use of HCQ compared to previous obstetrical outcomes.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest a significant benefit of HCQ in addition to aspirin and heparin for patients with APS to mitigate the risk of antiphospholipid antibody mediated obstetrical complications. Randomized controlled trials with standardized patient selection criteria need to be conducted to corroborate these findings.
Laparoscopic‐assisted thoracoscopic repair of latent traumatic diaphragmatic hernia: A case report
Authors: Yoshimine Sota , Tanaka Toshiki , Murakami Junichi , Yamamoto Naohiro , Kurazumi Hiroshi , Harada Eijiro , Hamano Kimikazu
Published: August 2023

Surgical approaches for traumatic diaphragmatic hernia include transabdominal, transthoracic, and thoracoabdominal. Selection of the optimal approach depends on the timing and organ damage, often minimally invasive approaches with laparoscopy or thoracoscopy are performed. A 47‐year‐old man with blunt chest trauma was diagnosed with left traumatic diaphragmatic hernia 1 month after the trauma. The prolapsed omentum was detached from the chest wall and around the hernia orifice and returned to the abdominal cavity by coordinated thoracoscopic and laparoscopic manipulations. The 4 × 2 cm herniation in the diaphragm was sutured closed from the thoracic side while preventing re‐prolapse of the omentum and abdominal organs from the abdominal side. A combined thoracoscopic and laparoscopic approach can be effective in confirming organ damage, repositioning of prolapsed organs, and safe repair of the diaphragm in latent traumatic diaphragmatic hernia.
Direct and spillover effects of board gender quotas: Revisiting the Norwegian experience
Authors: Garcia‐Blandon Josep , Argilés‐Bosch Josep Maria , Ravenda Diego , Castillo‐Merino David
Published: August 2023

Building on the Norwegian case, this study examines the long‐term implications of board gender quotas on the advancement of gender diversity in managerial leadership. Previous research has indicated that, aside from the board, the quota had limited impact on achieving this objective. However, these studies have narrowly focused on the spill‐over effects of the quota, primarily concentrating on the positions of CEO and Chair. The findings of this study reveal contrasting effects of the board gender quota on the gender composition of the board and the executive committee of the board. Consequently, Norwegian companies have increased the representation of women on their boards, as mandated by the law, while simultaneously experiencing a reduction in the presence of female executive directors. Moreover, the strength of both opposing effects has diminished over time. In addition to the board of directors, the quota has not influenced the promotion of gender diversity at other managerial levels. Furthermore, our study suggests that the quota has led to a decrease in the average tenure and level of independence of the boards, although it has not affected the qualifications of board members.
Neurofilament light chain: A potential biomarker for cerebrovascular disease in children with sickle cell anaemia
Authors: Green Nancy S. , Rosano Caterina , Bangirana Paul , Opoka Robert , Munube Deogratias , Kasirye Philip , Kawooya Michael , Lubowa Samson K. , Mupere Ezekiel , Conroy Andrea , Minja Frank J. , Boehme Amelia K. , Kang Min Suk , Honig Lawrence S. , Idro Richard
Published: August 2023

Cerebrovascular injury frequently occurs in children with sickle cell anaemia (SCA). Limited access to magnetic resonance imaging and angiography (MRI‐MRA) in sub‐Saharan Africa impedes detection of clinically unapparent cerebrovascular injury. Blood‐based brain biomarkers of cerebral infarcts have been identified in non‐SCA adults. Using plasma samples from a well‐characterized cross‐sectional sample of Ugandan children with SCA, we explored relationships between biomarker levels and MRI‐detected cerebral infarcts and transcranial Doppler (TCD) arterial velocity. Testing was performed using a 4‐plex panel of brain injury biomarkers, including neurofilament light chain (NfL), a central nervous system neuron‐specific protein. Mean biomarker levels from the SCA group (n = 81) were similar to those from non‐SCA sibling controls (n = 54). Within the SCA group, NfL levels were significantly higher in those with MRI‐detected infarcts compared to no infarcts, and higher with elevated TCD velocity versus normal velocity. Elevated NfL remained strongly associated with MRI‐detected infarcts after adjusting for sex and age. All non‐SCA controls and SCA participants lacking MRI‐detected infarcts had low NfL levels. These data suggest potential utility of plasma‐based NfL levels to identify children with SCA cerebrovascular injury. Replication and prospective studies are needed to confirm these novel findings and the clinical utility of NfL versus MRI imaging.
Clinical efficacy and safety of chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell therapy for mantle cell lymphoma with secondary central nervous system involvement
Authors: Ryan Christine E. , Zon Rebecca L. , Redd Robert , Fisher David C. , Shouval Roni , Kumar Anita , Crombie Jennifer L. , Sadrzadeh Hossein , Kim Austin I. , Nayak Lakshmi , Chukwueke Ugonma N. , Jacobson Caron A. , Frigault Matthew J. , Palomba M. Lia , Armand Philippe , Epstein‐Peterson Zachary , Merryman Reid W.
Published: August 2023

Data describing outcomes of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T‐cell therapy in patients with secondary central nervous system (SCNS) involvement of mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) are limited. We identified 10 patients with MCL and SCNS involvement treated with anti‐CD19 CAR T‐cell therapy at three US academic centres. Frequent objective responses were observed in the CNS (86%) and systemically (90%), and the 1‐year progression‐free survival was 47%. Seven patients developed immune‐effector‐cell‐associated‐neurotoxicity‐syndrome (n = 2 Grade 1, n = 5 Grade 3). Our results suggest that anti‐CD19 CAR T‐cell therapy in this setting is feasible and additional data regarding neurotoxicity in this population may be warranted.
Ten steps for ileoanal pouch anastomosis
Authors: Celentano Valerio , Manzo Carlo Alberto
Published: August 2023

Aim

Appropriate patient selection, surgical technique, and follow‐up pathways can provide optimal functional outcomes and good quality of life in many patients undergoing ileoanal pouch surgery. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the standardised approach to ileoanal pouch formation that we have developed in our pouch surgery centre.

Methods

We developed a structured approach to laparoscopic proctectomy with ileoanal pouch anastomosis formation, divided into 10 different steps. All patients referred to our centre from January 2020 to December 2022 for ulcerative colitis were included in the study.

Results

A total of 38 consecutive patients underwent ileal pouch‐anal anastomosis (IPAA) surgery. All procedures were completed laparoscopically with one conversion to open (2.6%). A total of 13 patients had postoperative complications within 30 days of surgery (34.2%), with six (15.8%) being Clavien Dindo class 3 or higher. Median follow‐up length was 18 months (range 2–30). Median number of bowel movements in 24 h at 12 months post‐surgery was 4 (range 1–11).

Conclusions

Our modular 10 steps approach could provide a standardised framework to surgeons in the learning curve. IPAA is a complex surgical procedure with significant postoperative morbidity. Our stepwise approach resulted in a high rate of minimally invasive surgery and could facilitate introduction of the technique.
The ASGLOS Study: A global survey on how predatory journals affect scientific practice
Authors: Martinino Alessandro , Puri Oshin , Pereira Juan Pablo Scarano , Owen Eloise , Chatterjee Surobhi , Abouelazayem Mohamed , Yang Wah , Mulita Francesk , Graham Yitka , Parmar Chetan , Ramnarain Dharmanand , Isik Arda , Yadav Shruti , Budihal Bhargavi R. , Kashyap Shankarsai , Aloulou Mohammad , Kundu Mrinmoy , Ibrahimli Arturan , Rajesh Eshwar , Silva Reewen George D. , Bhatt Gaurang , Malhotra Kashish , Magnani Riccardo , Smeenk Frank W. J. M. , Pouwels Sjaak
Published: August 2023

Predatory journals and conferences are an emerging problem in scientific literature as they have financial motives, without guaranteeing scientific quality and exposure. The main objective of the ASGLOS project is to investigate the predatory e‐email characteristics, management, and possible consequences and to analyse the extent of the current problem at each academic level. To collect the personal experiences of physicians’ mailboxes on predatory publishing, a Google Form® survey was designed and disseminated from September 2021 to April 2022. A total of 978 responses were analysed from 58 countries around the world. A total of 64.8% of participants indicated the need for 3 or fewer emails to acquire a criticality view in distinguishing a real invitation from a spam, while 11.5% still have doubt regardless of how many emails they get. The AGLOS Study clearly highlights the problem of academic e‐mail spam by predatory journals and conferences. Our findings signify the importance of providing academic career‐oriented advice and organising training sessions to increase awareness of predatory publishing for those conducting scientific research.
Discussing sexual health in spina bifida: An individualized, patient‐centered approach
Authors: Hensel Devon J.
Published: August 2023

This commentary is on the original article by Rague et al. on pages 389–397 of this issue.
An analysis of gender inclusion in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) projects: Intention vs. reality
Authors: Robinson Hannah Jayne , Barrington Dani , Evans Barbara , Hutchings Paul , Narayanaswamy Lata
Published: August 2023

Motivation

Gender equality is inherently bound with Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) provision, access, and use. Gender shapes experiences of projects and services, from participation in design to ensuring access to appropriate facilities. Many observers call for active attention to gender throughout the project cycle, but there is little evidence of the extent to which this happens in practice.

Purpose

The article examines the extent to which evaluations of WASH implementation identify good gender‐inclusive practices. It explores the reasons for failings and suggests ways gender equality could be more actively considered and effected in WASH programming.

Methods and approach

Textual analysis was undertaken on World Bank and UNICEF project evaluation documents to identify how gendered elements were addressed. Practices were then categorized according to a Gender Sensitivity Framework, rating them on a sliding scale measure from “gender insensitive” to “transformative.” The perceived barriers to gendered programming were subsequently triangulated using a mixed methods survey of WASH practitioners which used self‐identified challenges to assess consensus moderation to triangulate perceived barriers to gendered programming.

Findings

Lack of clarity in conceptualizing gender results in poorly defined targets that are often insufficiently context specific. Consequently, project objectives are either reductionist, limiting progress on “gender” to easily quantifiable measures that fail to capture the varied lived realities of gendered experiences, or comprise vague qualitative statements that cannot be accurately assessed, leaving gender inclusion unaddressed.

Policy implications

Gender is a social construct that is shaped by culture. Context‐specific understanding would support more nuanced gender‐inclusion objectives that could be monitored while also correlating with people's lived realities. Regular evaluation of gender guidance would ensure organizations' understanding and conceptualization of gender reflects the fluidity of society. Policy and practice interventions that guarantee the active involvement of multiple stakeholders and diverse voices would ensure that implementation is effective and evaluation is more accurate.
Neurological phenotype of adenosine deaminase 2 deficient patients: a cohort study
Authors: Verschoof Merelijne A. , van Meenen Laura C. C. , Andriessen M. Valérie E. , Brinkman Daniëlle M. C. , Kamphuis Sylvia , Kuijpers Taco W. , Leavis Helen L. , Legger G. Elizabeth , Mulders‐Manders Catharina M. , de Pagter Anne P. J. , Rutgers Abraham , van Well Gijs T. J. , Coutinho Jonathan M. , Hak A. Elisabeth , van Montfrans Joris M. , Klouwer Femke C. C.
Published: August 2023

Background and purpose

Patients with adenosine deaminase 2 (ADA2) deficiency can present with various neurological manifestations due to vasculopathies and autoinflammation. These include ischaemic and hemorrhagic stroke, but less clearly defined neurological symptoms have also been reported.

Methods

In this cohort study, patients with confirmed ADA2 deficiency from seven university hospitals in the Netherlands were included. The frequency and recurrence rates of neurological manifestations before and after initiation of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF‐α) inhibiting therapy were analyzed.

Results

Twenty‐nine patients were included with a median age at presentation of 5 years (interquartile range 1–17). Neurological manifestations occurred in 19/29 (66%) patients and were the presenting symptom in 9/29 (31%) patients. Transient ischaemic attack (TIA)/ischaemic stroke occurred in 12/29 (41%) patients and was the presenting symptom in 8/29 (28%) patients. In total, 25 TIAs/ischaemic strokes occurred in 12 patients, one after initiation of TNF‐α inhibiting therapy and one whilst switching between TNF‐α inhibitors. None was large‐vessel occlusion stroke. Two hemorrhagic strokes occurred: one aneurysmatic subarachnoid hemorrhage and one spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage. Most neurological symptoms, including cranial nerve deficits, vertigo, ataxia and seizures, were caused by TIAs/ischaemic strokes and seldom recurred after initiation of TNF‐α inhibiting therapy.

Conclusions

Neurological manifestations, especially TIA/ischaemic stroke, are common in patients with ADA2 deficiency and frequently are the presenting symptom. Because it is a treatable cause of young stroke, for which antiplatelet and anticoagulant therapy are considered contraindicated, awareness amongst neurologists and pediatricians is important. Screening for ADA2 deficiency in young patients with small‐vessel ischaemic stroke without an identified cause should be considered.