bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cellular age explains variation in age-related cell-to-cell transcriptome variability
Authors: Yang Ming , Harrison Benjamin R. , Promislow Daniel E.L.
Published: November 2023

Organs and tissues age at different rates within a single individual. Such asynchrony in aging has been widely observed at multiple levels, from functional hallmarks, such as anatomical structures and physiological processes, to molecular endophenotypes, such as the transcriptome and metabolome. However, we lack a conceptual framework to understand why some components age faster than others. Just as demographic models explain why aging evolves, here we test the hypothesis that demographic differences among cell types, determined by cell-specific differences in turnover rate, can explain why the transcriptome shows signs of aging in some cell types but not others. Through analysis of mouse single-cell transcriptome data across diverse tissues and ages, we find that cellular age explains a large proportion of the variation in the age-related increase in transcriptome variance. We further show that long-lived cells are characterized by relatively high expression of genes associated with proteostasis and that the transcriptome of long-lived cells shows greater evolutionary constraint than short-lived cells. In contrast, in short-lived cell types, the transcriptome is enriched for genes associated with DNA repair. Based on these observations, we develop a novel heuristic model that explains how and why aging rates differ among cell types.
The new normal: the adoption of food delivery apps
Authors: Madinga Nkosivile Welcome , Blanckensee Jo , Longhurst Lauren , Bundwini Nqobile
Published: November 2023

Purpose

In the wake of lockdown regulations and limited mobility during the COVID-19 pandemic, dining habits shifted towards usage of food delivery apps to avoid physical interaction. Nonetheless, it is unknown whether the COVID-19 pandemic had an influence on the adoption of food delivery apps. Therefore, this study examined factors influencing the adoption of food delivery apps during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the moderating effects of education and age.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 282 food delivery application users in South Africa using a web-based survey. Partial least square structural equation modelling analysis was used to test the hypotheses, while partial least squares multigroup analysis was used to examine the moderating effect of education level and age.

Findings

The results indicated that perceived ease of use has a significant impact on perceived usefulness and attitudes, perceived usefulness has an impact on attitudes and continuous intention, attitude influences continuous intention and social pressure and convenience influence attitudes. The perceived COVID-19 threat had no impact on attitudes, and education and age had no significant impact on any relationships. The findings are imperative for restaurants and mobile application designers, as they enable more effective strategic management planning.

Originality/value

This study is the first paper to empirically employ technology acceptance model to analyse the adoption of food delivery applications during the COVID-19 pandemic. Its uniqueness is in examining situational influence associated with the pandemic such as social pressure, perceived COVID-19 threat and convenience.
Preparing students for the future workplace: how online teaching and learning during the COVID-19 pandemic hone required transferable skills
Authors: Jacobs Bertha , Taljaard-Swart Hanri , Marx-Pienaar Nadene , Diedericks Lizette , Sonnenberg Nadine , Donoghue Suné , Pretorius Adeline , du Rand Gerrie
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Skilled graduates delivered through vocational programmes are critical to ensure the future growth of emerging economies. This study explored students' reflections and experiences of online teaching and learning (T&L) during the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa. The study specifically focused on the transferable skills students acquired and their relevance to working in the local retail and hospitality industries.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a case study research design, this study retrospectively delved into the multi-perspectives of students enrolled in vocational programmes. A total of 145 students completed reflective questions via a Qualtrics link regarding the topic in question. Student reflections were grouped and analysed for recurring themes using Atlas.ti. Through thematic analysis, two topical themes emerged related to transferable skills development and the usefulness of skills for future work.

Findings

The findings suggest that although students had to rely on online classes during the COVID-19 pandemic, they still developed vital transferable skills, including communication, teamwork, organisational, self-management, flexibility, technology, metacognition and problem-solving.

Practical implications

The findings offer valuable input into planning and developing student-centric online courses to facilitate the development of desired transferable skills. Findings could also guide best T&L practices regarding how education and training across digital platforms could be used to ensure that graduates are prepared to navigate the future complexities of working in ever-changing globalised industries.

Originality/value

This study provides new insights into the evolution of T&L and how unexpected situations could provide an opportunity to hone desired skills and prepare students for employment and the 21st century workplace.
Navigating farm waste problems: introducing the Gleaning Innovation Framework
Authors: Mueller Steven M. , Kowalczyk Christine M. , Taillon Brian J. , Rowe William J.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Managing farm waste is a fundamental problem for farmers with economic, environmental and social impacts throughout the supply chain. Little research has explored innovative product solutions. This paper examines gleaning to reduce farm waste and proposes a resource-based Gleaning Innovation Framework which can lead to differentiated consumer products.

Design/methodology/approach

A multi-method approach, including descriptive company reviews, practitioner interviews and consumer surveys, evaluated how different participants in the food supply chain view the farm waste problem and the innovation of products through gleaning.

Findings

This research found that practitioners and consumers are cognizant and invested in reducing farm waste, with gleaning as a plausible solution. Future research includes gathering perspectives from retailers and other supply chain members, which may further develop the conceptualization of the gleaning innovation process.

Originality/value

Uniquely, the authors propose the Gleaning Innovation Framework that provides a platform for innovation across the supply chain to reduce farm waste. The research contributes to the farm waste debate with evidence that gleaning can assist the reduction of farm waste through product innovation. Developing innovations to reduce farm waste in sustainable and environmentally friendly ways would not only benefit the supply chain platform but also society.
Reexamining review variance and movie sales: the inverted-U-shaped relationship and boundary conditions
Authors: Lee Jungwon , Park Cheol
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study is based on the heuristic-systematic model (HSM) to dynamically examine the effect of review variance on sales and the boundary conditions that mitigate this effect.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the theoretical domain of HSM, a conceptual model is proposed that analyzes the nonlinear relationship between review variance and sales and the interaction and motivation factors that moderate these relationships. Review data from websites targeting the film industry in the USA and South Korea (Korea) were collected to empirically analyze the authors' hypothesis, and panel regression analysis was used for confirmation.

Findings

Moderated by interactive and motivational factors, review variance exhibits an inverse-U-shaped relationship with review variance. Specifically, as an interaction factor, review valence and owned social media (OSM) resulted in positive interaction effects, and as a motivation factor, the number of alternatives exhibited a positive interaction effect with review variance. The effect of review variance was less pronounced in the USA than in Korea.

Originality/value

The study outcomes reveal a nonlinear relationship between review variance and sales, thus supporting the contradictory findings of previous studies. This study contributes to the literature by using the HSM as a theoretical framework to verify various HSM mechanisms using online review data. This exploratory study also contributes to the international marketing literature by showing that the effects of review variance vary across cultures.
Impact of private and public initiatives on individuals' employment and income during the COVID-19 pandemic: evidence from Peru
Authors: Mongrut Samuel Arturo , Cruz Vivian , Pacussich Daniela
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine the impact of private and public initiatives (financial literacy, entrepreneurship, remote work and government aid) on individual job loss and decrease in income during the COVID-19 pandemic in Peru.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used an unbalanced panel data analysis with the National Household Survey for 2019–2020. The hypotheses are tested with a probit panel data model since the dependent variables are binary.

Findings

The study findings indicate that financial preparedness reduced the probability of having a decrease in income, but only to informal workers in metropolitan Lima. Furthermore, entrepreneurship helped mainly female informal workers to reduce their probability of becoming unemployed in metropolitan Lima. Besides, the implementation of remote work as a substitute of face-to-face work was not enough to avoid the decrease in income in the case of informal workers and it was only effective to avoid unemployment in the case of formal workers in metropolitan Lima. Finally, public aid proved to be instrumental in mitigating the decrease in income, but only to informal workers in Metropolitan Lima.

Research limitations/implications

The study results only apply for the first year of the pandemic.

Practical implications

Policymakers should focus on increasing the financial preparedness of informal workers, especially in provinces.

Social implications

Policymakers must expand unemployment benefits, and design public aid programs targeting informal workers in provinces.

Originality/value

This is the first study that analyses the impact of private and public initiatives on the decrease in income and unemployment situation of Peruvian individuals during the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
New Public Governance as a new wave of the public policy: theoretical approach and conceptualization of the trend
Authors: Popęda Piotr , Hadasik Bartłomiej
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The paper's primary purpose is to define and characterize the innovative concept in public management theory, New Public Governance (NPG), from its theoretical framework and the view of public management institutions. The second objective is to create a logical framework to explain this notion. The broader role of this paper is to expand the understanding of this contemporary public management trend.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodological approach of the authors' research is based on a deep understanding of theoretical sources, particularly the scientific precursors in the literature surrounding the NPG theory. The authors used the following methods to achieve the paper's goals: critical thematic literature review and synthetic comparative analysis.

Findings

In regards to scientific analysis, the goals of NPG were achieved, considering that its concept and main characteristics were displayed in definitional terms as a trend in public management, emphasizing institutional cooperation and co-production, having strengths in social inclusion and weaknesses in the lack of participatory experience of the actors. Additionally, the authors created the original 6-CO coherent conceptual framework describing the flows in the NPG operation based on theoretical foundations. The analysis of theoretical sources not only allowed the collection of common and disconnected features of the reasoning behind the definition and depth of the NPG but also insufficient development of the theory in existing sources.

Originality/value

The paper demonstrates critical new scholarship surrounding the NPG theory because it (1) applies one of the latest trends in public management, (2) juxtaposes various academics' understanding of the concept and, most importantly, (3) advances the theory of NPG with the original 6-CO coherent conceptual framework as a practical implication of the theory originator.
Behaviour determinants of two Muslims classes towards cash waqf for productive purposes: explanation from Indonesia
Authors: Maulina Rindawati , Dhewanto Wawan , Faturohman Taufik
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the behaviour determinants towards cash waqf for productive purposes between two different classes of Muslims: the upper-middle class and the lower-middle class.

Design/methodology/approach

Under the Theory of Planned Behavior framework, this study modified previous literature to investigate the determinants of two Muslim classes’ behaviour towards cash waqf for productive purposes. A structural equation model was applied to test the hypothesis, and an in-depth interview was conducted to explain the findings further.

Findings

The behaviour of participating in cash waqf for productive purposes differs between the two Muslim segments. Upper-middle-class Muslims’ intentions will not necessarily consider subjective norms, even though they will consider religiosity as their deciding factor. Meanwhile, this study found different results on the influence of attitude, religiosity and subjective norms to intention in the lower-middle-income group. Other attributes such as perceived behaviour control, knowledge, trust and perceived benefits show positive and significant effects on the intention for both income classes of Muslims.

Research limitations/implications

The current findings may not accurately reflect ideal conditions due to the low level of waqf literacy and actual participation of Muslims in cash waqf for productive purposes. Researchers can conduct further studies based on other criteria, such as gender, age, education level or area of residence, using experimental or simulation methods to complement the research.

Practical implications

This study’s findings can support policymakers and related waqf stakeholders to set strategies for cash waqf literacy and participation by providing more detailed information about the differences in Muslims characteristics based on the income classes.

Originality/value

This study specifically modifies the behavioural framework to investigate differences in the behaviour of two classes of Muslims towards their participation in cash waqf for productive purposes in Indonesia.
Unintended influence of leader forgiveness: increased employee cyberloafing
Authors: Zhang Junwei , Xie Kun , Zhang Yajun , Wang Yongqi
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The substantial cost of employee cyberloafing to organizations calls for research into exploring the factors that influence such behavior. Drawing upon social cognitive theory, the authors develop a theoretical model that unpacks when and why leader forgiveness induces employee cyberloafing. Specifically, the authors identify moral disengagement as a linking mechanism and employee empathic concern as a key boundary condition in the association between leader forgiveness and employee cyberloafing behaviors.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted multilevel analyses to examine the authors' hypotheses by utilizing a sample of 71 supervisors and 306 direct reports.

Findings

Results showed that leader forgiveness encouraged employee cyberloafing via moral disengagement among employees with low empathic concern, whereas the indirect effect was not present among those with high empathic concern.

Originality/value

The authors contribute to the literature on cyberloafing and leader forgiveness. First, this study extends the cyberloafing research by considering leader forgiveness as an enabler, challenging the dominant notion that positive leader behaviors (e.g. leader mindfulness) constrain employee cyberloafing while negative leader behaviors (e.g. abusive supervision) elicit it. Second, although past studies have predominantly concentrated on the positive outcomes of forgiveness, the current research contributes to the balanced and comprehensive understanding of leader forgiveness by linking leader forgiveness with employee cyberloafing.
Effect of human resource investments in internal controls on goodwill impairment
Authors: Jo Eun Hye , Lee Jung Wha
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impact of human resource investment in internal controls (hereinafter, IC personnel) on managers’ goodwill impairment decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use the ratio of IC personnel to the number of employees in the firm and the average work experience of IC personnel as quantitative and qualitative measures for IC personnel, respectively.

Findings

The authors find that the relationship between the likelihood of impairment and the expected impairment is not associated with the ratio of IC personnel. However, the average experience of IC personnel increases the likelihood that a company will record an impairment when there are market and financial indicators of impairment. The findings suggest that the effectiveness of IC is determined by practical proficiency rather than size. Furthermore, our analyses demonstrate that the greater the experience of the IC personnel in the accounting/finance or IT departments, the more likely the manager will record an expected impairment. Overall, our findings emphasize the importance of IC personnel expertise to enhance the effectiveness of IC for financial reporting.

Originality/value

Using unique data available only in Korea, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to show the effect of human resource investment in IC on goodwill impairment.
Direct-print thermally responsive 4D textiles by depositing PLA on prestretched fabrics
Authors: Zhang Jinyu , Shen Danni , Yu Yuxiang , Bao Defu , Li Chao , Qin Jiapei
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to develop a four-dimensional (4D) textile composite that self-forms upon thermal stimulation while eliminating thermomechanical programming steps by using fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing technology, and tries to refine the product development path for this composite.

Design/methodology/approach

Polylactic acid (PLA) printing filaments were deposited on prestretched Lycra-knitted fabric using desktop-level FDM 3D printing technology to construct a three-layer structure of thermally responsive 4D textiles. Subsequently, the effects of different PLA thicknesses and Lycra knit fabric relative elongation on the permanent shape of thermally responsive 4D textiles were studied. Finally, a simulation program was written, and a case in this study demonstrates the usage of thermally responsive 4D textiles and the simulation program to design a wrist support product.

Findings

The constructed three-layer structure of PLA and Lycra knitted fabric can self-form under thermal stimulation. The material can also achieve reversible transformation between a permanent shape and multiple temporary shapes. Thinner PLA deposition and higher relative elongation of the Lycra-knitted fabric result in the greater curvature of the permanent shape of the thermally responsive 4D textile. The simulation program accurately predicted the permanent form of multiple basic shapes.

Originality/value

The proposed method enables 4D textiles to directly self-form upon thermal, which helps to improve the manufacturing efficiency of 4D textiles. The thermal responsiveness of the composite also contributes to building an intelligent human–material–environment interaction system.
Language and gesture neural correlates: A meta‐analysis of functional magnetic resonance imaging studies
Authors: Cacciante Luisa , Pregnolato Giorgia , Salvalaggio Silvia , Federico Sara , Kiper Pawel , Smania Nicola , Turolla Andrea
Published: November 2023

Background

Humans often use co‐speech gestures to promote effective communication. Attention has been paid to the cortical areas engaged in the processing of co‐speech gestures.

Aims

To investigate the neural network underpinned in the processing of co‐speech gestures and to observe whether there is a relationship between areas involved in language and gesture processing.

Methods & Procedures

We planned to include studies with neurotypical and/or stroke participants who underwent a bimodal task (i.e., processing of co‐speech gestures with relative speech) and a unimodal task (i.e., speech or gesture alone) during a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) session. After a database search, abstract and full‐text screening were conducted. Qualitative and quantitative data were extracted, and a meta‐analysis was performed with the software GingerALE 3.0.2, performing contrast analyses of uni‐ and bimodal tasks.

Main Contribution

The database search produced 1024 records. After the screening process, 27 studies were included in the review. Data from 15 studies were quantitatively analysed through meta‐analysis. Meta‐analysis found three clusters with a significant activation of the left middle frontal gyrus and inferior frontal gyrus, and bilateral middle occipital gyrus and inferior temporal gyrus.

Conclusions

There is a close link at the neural level for the semantic processing of auditory and visual information during communication. These findings encourage the integration of the use of co‐speech gestures during aphasia treatment as a strategy to foster the possibility to communicate effectively for people with aphasia.

WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS

What is already known on this subject

Gestures are an integral part of human communication, and they may have a relationship at neural level with speech processing.

What this paper adds to the existing knowledge

During processing of bi‐ and unimodal communication, areas related to semantic processing and multimodal processing are activated, suggesting that there is a close link between co‐speech gestures and spoken language at a neural level.

What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?

Knowledge of the functions related to gesture and speech processing neural networks will allow for the adoption of model‐based neurorehabilitation programs to foster recovery from aphasia by strengthening the specific functions of these brain networks.
An Exhibition in Negative: Nigel Henderson, Parallel of Life and Art and the Photographic Image
Authors: Ram Rosie
Published: November 2023

This essay focuses on a series of photographic negatives relating to the ground-breaking exhibition Parallel of Life and Art, which opened at London's Institute of Contemporary Arts in 1953. Painstakingly preserved by one of the five exhibition-makers, the artist-photographer Nigel Henderson, these dark, translucent forms of photographic image offer the basis for a new interpretation of the exhibition. Crucially, they show how Parallel of Life and Art was rooted – technologically, aesthetically, and conceptually – in photographic negativity. This engagement with the negative found concentrated expression in four photographic images that Henderson created and integrated into the display. Simultaneously rejecting and reworking the conventions of modern art, these images enacted complex forms of negation, which inflected the exhibition as a whole. Read in dialogue with the negatives from Parallel of Life and Art, they pose profound challenges to the established distinctions between the artwork, the photograph, and the exhibition in post-war Britain.
Exercise design for interagency collaboration training: The case of maritime nuclear emergency management tabletop exercises
Authors: Elvegård Rune , Andreassen Natalia
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we explore a concept of exercise design within emergency management competence development. The paper presents recommendations for exercise design aspects that may be suitable for gaining collaboration skills and knowledge that responders need in unknown events of high complexity. This study explores the practice of tabletop exercises with complex scenarios that engage participants to discover organizational roles and responsibility division in collaborative action. Empirically, we base our analysis on maritime search and rescue nuclear preparedness exercises in the Arctic seas. We focus on elements that are essential for learners to increase their knowledge of operational complexity and collaborative performance, including understanding one's own and others' roles and responsibilities, formation of interagency teams, their boundaries and interaction between authorities and levels, mutual recognition of risks and learning about resource capacities and their limitations. The study draws conclusions on aspects that are critical for designing emergency management tabletop exercises, in particularly discussions in mixed groups for interpretative learning; own practice reflection for integrative learning; formulating general collaborative competence objectives, and complexity and realism of scenarios.
Feeding behavior and hormoligosis associated with imidacloprid resistance in Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri
Authors: Chen Xue Dong , George Justin , Diepenbrock Lauren M. , Gossett Hunter , Liu Guoping , Qureshi Jawwad A. , Stelinski Lukasz L.
Published: November 2023

Imidacloprid is a neonicotinoid insecticide used for managing the Asian citrus psyllid, Diaphorina citri Kuwayama, which serves as vector of phytopathogens causing citrus greening. However, development of resistance to neonicotinoids among populations of D. citri has coincided with occasional control failures in the field. The objectives of this research were to (1) survey current levels of imidacloprid resistance in Florida citrus; (2) compare feeding behavior between imidacloprid‐resistant and susceptible D. citri using electrical penetration graph recordings, and (3) investigate the possible amplification of insecticide hormoligosis associated with resistance. Field surveys confirmed that the susceptibility of D. citri populations to imidacloprid has decreased in commercial Florida citrus groves compared with a laboratory‐susceptible population. Following 12 generations of selection, resistance to imidacloprid increased by 438 fold compared with the susceptible strain. Imidacloprid‐susceptible D. citri feeding on citrus exhibited significantly more bouts associated with intercellular pathway (C), phloem penetration (D), phloem salivation (E1), and nonprobing (Np) activities than imidacloprid‐resistant counterparts. However, there were no differences observed in the frequency or duration of phloem ingestion or xylem feeding between susceptible and resistant D. citri. There was no statistical difference in fecundity between resistant and susceptible strains. However, the fecundity of imidacloprid‐susceptible female D. citri treated with a sublethal concentration of imidacloprid (LC25) increased significantly compared with controls, while such hormoligosis was less pronounced among imidacloprid‐resistant psyllids. Our results suggest that imidacloprid‐resistant psyllids may cease feeding sooner than susceptible counterparts following sublethal exposure to this insecticide, indicative of a behavioral resistance mechanism.
Massive integration of large gene libraries in the chromosome of Escherichia coli
Authors: Cerdán Lidia , Álvarez Beatriz , Fernández Luis Ángel
Published: November 2023

Large gene libraries are frequently created in Escherichia coli plasmids, which can induce cell toxicity and expression instability due to the high gene dosage. To address these limitations, gene libraries can be integrated in a single copy into the bacterial chromosome. Here, we describe an efficient system for the massive integration (MAIN) of large gene libraries in the E. coli chromosome that generates in‐frame gene fusions that are expressed stably. MAIN uses a thermosensitive integrative plasmid that is linearized in vivo to promote extensive integration of the gene library via homologous recombination. Positive and negative selections efficiently remove bacteria lacking gene integration in the target site. We tested MAIN with a library of 107 VHH genes that encode nanobodies (Nbs). The integration of VHH genes into a custom target locus of the E. coli chromosome enabled stable expression and surface display of the Nbs. Next‐generation DNA sequencing confirmed that MAIN preserved the diversity of the gene library after integration. Finally, we screened the integrated library to select Nbs that bind a specific antigen using magnetic and fluorescence‐activated cell sorting. This allowed us to identify Nbs binding the epidermal growth factor receptor that were not previously isolated in a similar screening of a multicopy plasmid library. Our results demonstrate that MAIN enables large gene library integration into the E. coli chromosome, creating stably expressed in‐frame fusions for functional screening.
Extensive Resetting of Feldspar Pb Isotopic Composition in Archean–Paleoproterozoic Granitic Rocks from the Kongling Terrane, South China: Implications for Tracing Thermal Evolutionary History
Authors: MENG Fanxue , LU Jie , ZOU Zongqi , GUO Jingliang , MENG Yuanku
Published: November 2023

Feldspar Pb isotopes have been widely used to trace magmatic formation and evolution processes. However, it remains unclear whether post‐magmatic thermal events can affect feldspar Pb isotopic ratios. Here, the in situ Pb isotopic composition of feldspar hosted in granitic rocks (thirteen Archean and one Paleoproterozoic) from the northern Kongling terrane, Yangtze Craton, South China, is analyzed. The samples reveal a substantial variation in their Pb isotopic composition, spanning the gap between the 1.9 Ga and present‐day geochrons, which indicates extensive resetting by later tectonothermal events. This resetting was interpreted to have likely resulted from Paleoproterozoic and Neoproterozoic tectonothermal events related to the assembly and breakup of the Columbia and Rodinia supercontinents. These results suggest that Pb isotopes should be used cautiously when tracing magma sources and petrogenesis in magmatic rocks that have experienced post‐magmatic reworking. However, the in situ Pb isotopic composition of feldspar in ancient granitoids may also potentially be used to reveal later tectonothermal events. The extensive resetting of the Pb isotopic composition in feldspar by regional thermal events may also provide new insights into our understanding of the Pb isotope paradox.
Transabdominal and transvaginal ultrasound findings help to guide the clinical management of placenta accreta spectrum cases
Authors: Aryananda Rozi Aditya , Duvekot Johannes J. , Van Beekhuizen Heleen J. , Cininta Nareswari Imanadha , Ariani Grace , Dachlan Erry Gumilar
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The clinical management of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) depends on placental topography and vascular involvement. Our aim was to determine whether transabdominal and transvaginal ultrasound signs can predict PAS management.

Material and methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of consecutive prenatally suspected PAS cases in a single tertiary‐care PAS center between January 2021 and July 2022. When PAS was confirmed during surgery, abdominal and transvaginal ultrasound scans were analyzed in relation to PAS management. The preferred surgical approach of PAS was one‐step conservative surgery (OSCS). Massive blood loss and PAS topography in the lower bladder trigone necessitated cesarean hysterectomy. Transvaginal ultrasound‐diagnosed intracervical hypervascularity was split into three categories based on their quantity. Anatomically, the internal cervical os is located at the level of the bladder trigone and was used as landmark for upper and lower bladder trigone PAS.

Results

Ninety‐one women underwent OSCS and 35 women underwent cesarean hysterectomy (total 126 women with PAS). Abdominal and transvaginal ultrasound features differed significantly between women that underwent OSCS and cesarean hysterectomy: decreased myometrial thickness (<1 mm), 82.4% vs. 100%, p = 0.006; placental bulge, 51.6% vs. 94.3%, p < 0.001; bladder wall interruption, 62.6% vs. 97.1%, p < 0.001; abnormal placental lacunae, 75.8% vs. 100%, p < 0.001; hypervascularity (large lacunae feeding vessels, 57.8% vs. 94.6%, p < 0.001; parametrial hypervascularity, 15.4% vs. 60%, p < 0.001; the rail sign, 6.6% vs. 28.6%, p = 0.003; three‐dimensional Doppler intra‐placental hypervascularity, 81.3% vs. 100%, p < 0.001; intracervical hypervascularity 60.4% vs. 94.3%, p < 0.001); and cervical length 2.5 ± 0.94 vs. 2.2 ± 0.73, p = 0.038. Other ultrasound signs were not significantly different. The results of multivariable logistic regression showed placental bulge (odds ratio [OR] 9.3; 95% CI 1.9–44.3; p = 0.005), parametrial hypervascularity (OR 4.1; 95% CI 1.541–11.085; p = 0.005), and intracervical hypervascularity (OR 9.2; 95% CI 1.905–44.056; p = 0.006) were weak predictors of OSCS. Intracervical hypervascularity Grade 1 (vascularity <50% of cervical tissue) was more present in OSCS than higher gradings two and three (91% vs. 27.6% vs. 14.3%; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Cesarean hysterectomy is associated with the PAS signs of placental bulge and Grade 2 and 3 intracervical hypervascularity. OSCS is associated with intracervical hypervascularity Grade 1 on transvaginal ultrasound. Prospective validation is required to formulate predictors for PAS management.
An early artificial implantable kidney prototype demonstrates short‐term viability in a porcine model without immunosuppression
Authors: Han Jason J.
Published: November 2023

Dialysis remains an imperfect treatment for over two million patients with renal failure worldwide. This bioreactor may lead to the completely implantable, continuous filtration system they need.
Precision and normal values of cerebral blood volume in preterm neonates using time‐resolved near‐infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Wolfsberger Christina Helene , Avian Alexander , Schwaberger Bernhard , Pichler Gerhard , Wolf Martin , Urlesberger Berndt
Published: November 2023

Aim

To investigate cerebral blood volume (CBV) in preterm neonates using time‐resolved near‐infrared spectroscopy.

Methods

In this prospective observational study, time‐resolved near‐infrared spectroscopy measurements of CBV using tNIRS‐1 were performed in 70 preterm neonates. For measurements, a sensor was placed for a duration of 1 min, followed by four further reapplications of the sensor, overall five measurements.

Results

In this study, 70 preterm neonates with a mean ± SD gestational age of 33.4 ± 1.7 weeks and a birthweight of 1931 ± 398 g were included with a postnatal age of 4.7 ± 2.0 days. Altogether, 2383 CBV values were obtained with an overall mean of 1.85 ± 0.30 mL/100 g brain. A total of 95% of the measured CBV values varied in a range from −0.31 to 0.33 from the overall individual mean. Taking the deviation of the mean of each single application for each patient, this range reduced from −0.07 to 0.07. The precision of the measurement defined as within‐variation in CBV was 0.24 mL/100 g brain.

Conclusion

The overall mean CBV in stable preterm neonates was 1.85 ± 0.30 mL/100 g brain. The within‐variation in CBV was 0.24 mL/100 g brain. Based on the precision obtained by our data, CBV of 1.85 ± 0.30 mL/100 g brain may be assumed as normal value for this cohort.
Grassland reconstruction in a factory yard increases biodiversity and reduces costs of installation and maintenance
Authors: Csonka Anna Cseperke , Török Katalin , Csecserits Anikó , Halassy Melinda
Published: November 2023

Aims

The restoration of unused urban‐industrial areas has great conservation potential as it can sometimes create a win‐win situation in terms of nature conservation and economic benefits. Financial data of restoration projects are rarely published. To close this gap, we report the cost–benefit analysis of different landscaping methods used in the greening of the outskirts of a factory industrial area.

Location

The study area is located in a factory area in Nyíregyháza, Nyírség, Hungary.

Methods

In this study, we compare the costs of the implementation and maintenance of three different types of grasslands (intensively and extensively managed park lawns and semi‐natural grassland, called eco area) and the ecological benefits in terms of vegetation and potential for pollinators.

Results

The implementation and maintenance costs of the extensively managed park lawn were more than ten‐fold higher than that of the eco area, despite the higher price of native plant material. The construction of the extensive park lawn is the cheapest, but the eco area pays off in ca. 1.5 years compared to it, taking into account the lower maintenance costs. Seven years after implementation, the eco area is the most species‐rich, hosting the highest number of natural constituent species, but with similar vegetation cover as in the intensively managed park lawn without costly maintenance. The cover and species richness of legumes and forbs are also higher in the eco area, ensuring a food source for pollinators.

Conclusions

Our results support that introducing species‐rich and diverse grasslands with native, habitat specialist species as an alternative to traditional landscaping in urban‐industrial areas can be economically and ecologically rewarding. The higher costs of planning, plant material, and implementation pay off in a short time due to low maintenance costs and can lead to a win‐win situation for nature as well as for the local economy.
Ableism differs by disability, gender and social context: Evidence from vignette experiments
Authors: Timmons Shane , McGinnity Frances , Carroll Eamonn
Published: November 2023

Existing research on prejudice and discrimination towards disabled people (i.e. ‘ableism’) has conceptualized it as a general attitude, obscuring the role of social context in its manifestation. We aimed to investigate whether and how ableism manifests differently depending on the nature of the disability, the disabled person's gender and the social context of the interaction. A nationally representative sample of 2000 adults read a series of vignettes about issues faced by disabled people (e.g. employment, relationships). Vignettes varied by presence and type of disability and the disabled person's gender. Judgements about how a disabled person was treated showed clear evidence of ableism towards some conditions (e.g. autism) but not others (e.g. a spine disorder). Judgements about the actions of a disabled person were more nuanced. A disability‐gender intersectionality effect was observed for judgements about romantic relationships, with physically disabled women penalized compared to men but no gender difference was observed for intellectual disability. No intersectionality or ableism was observed on a vignette about refusing poorly paid work. We find clear evidence that ableism manifests differently depending on the nature of the individual's disability, their gender and the social context, questioning previous conceptualizations of ableism as a general attitude.
Children's relational experiences with the financial crisis in Greece
Authors: Pardali Eirini , Ursin Marit
Published: November 2023

When Greece was hit by the global financial crisis in 2009, families with children paid the heaviest toll. In this article, we draw on individual interviews and focus groups with 17 sixth graders, six teachers and six parents at a primary school in the Magnesia region. We use a relational approach to unpacking everyday austerity as it is lived, felt and experienced by Greek children. The empirical material shows how children's well‐being is conditioned by the well‐being of their families, where emotional stress spills over through witnessing parents' worries. Relational agency enables children to contribute to adversity relief, which seems to enhance not only their well‐being but also their resilience, as it is embedded in relations of mutual empowerment and development. Lastly, the study documents how macro policies of austerity measures trickle into the fabric of children's everyday lives and shape familial and intergenerational practices of care and responsibility.
Blaschkoid melanotic cutaneous lupus erythematosus with “melanocytic nests”
Authors: Bigotto Gianmarco Diego , Podo‐Brunetti Antonio , Stabile Giorgio , Caputo Valentina , Guida Stefania , Brambilla Lucia , Rongioletti Franco
Published: November 2023

Melanotic cutaneous lupus erythematosus (LE) is a newly described clinical variant of chronic cutaneous LE, presenting with localized or diffuse brownish or grayish macular and reticulated pigmentation in the absence of erythema, scaling, atrophy, scarring, or telangiectasia. The diagnosis is based upon histopathology, which demonstrates the characteristic features of LE with an interface vacuolar dermatitis with melanophages, and a superficial and deep, perivascular and periadnexal lymphocytic infiltrate with mucin deposition. Herein, we describe a case of a 61‐year‐old White male presenting with melanotic cutaneous LE with a blaschkoid distribution on his face in which the histopathological phenomenon of “true melanocytic nests” in the setting of a lichenoid pattern was seen. We want to highlight how nests of cellular aggregates at the dermoepidermal junction labeling with melanocytic markers may occur in the setting of an interface tissue reaction. This benign reactional pattern may mimic atypical melanocytic proliferations, especially on sun‐damaged skin. Clinicopathological correlation and careful microscopic examination using a panel of multiple melanocytic markers is crucial for making an accurate final diagnosis. All the cases of melanotic cutaneous LE reported in the literature are also reviewed.
Immunotherapy and lung cytopathology: Overview and possibilities
Authors: Lozano Maria D. , Argueta Allan , de Andrea Carlos
Published: November 2023

Immunotherapy has become a promising cancer treatment in the past decade, and IHC is the most commonly used testing method for PDL‐1/PD1 evaluation. In general, PD‐L1 assays can be performed on both FFPE specimens and cytological samples. However, their use on smears is not yet well‐established or validated. Nowadays, digital images and advanced algorithms can aid in interpreting PD‐L1 in cytological samples. Understanding the immune environment of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is critical in developing successful anticancer immunotherapies. The use of a multiplexed immunofluorescence (mIF) assay on cytological samples obtained through minimally invasive methods appears to be a viable option for investigating the immune environment of NSCLC. This review aims to briefly summarize the knowledge of the role of cytopathology in the analysis of PD‐L1 by immunocytochemistry (ICC) and future directions of cytopathology in the immunotherapy setting.
Fine‐scale interplay between decline and growth determines the spatial recovery of coral communities within a reef
Authors: Vercelloni Julie , Roelfsema Chris , Kovacs Eva M. , González‐Rivero Manuel , Moores Matthew T. , Logan Murray , Mengersen Kerrie
Published: November 2023

As coral reefs endure increasing levels of disturbance, understanding recovery patterns of reef‐building hard corals is paramount to assessing the sustainability of these ecosystems. At local scales, coral recovery slows down; however, it's unclear how this trend propagates across spatial scales due to the inherent complexity of coral dynamics. In this paper, we aimed to learn about fine scale heterogeneity of coral dynamics and explore implications for assessing coral recovery at larger spatial scales. We developed a spatio‐temporal statistical model to estimate long‐term trajectories of three types of corals and predict their recovery patterns at unobserved locations within a reef. Then, model predictions were used to derive metrics that capture the interplay between coral growth and decline from disturbance(s) across time, space and growth morphology. This model is developed in the context of a substantive case study at Heron Reef using a high spatio‐temporal resolution dataset. Our results revealed that successful coral community recoveries took place in different habitats of Heron Reef and associated with various reasons. Branching corals recovered in the southern slope, due to fast growth in locations that were previously abundant. Plate corals flourished in the northern slope due to fast growth, despite a large decline and low baseline cover. They also recovered in the southern slope but in this case there was both a low decline and baseline cover. At Heron Reef, the recovery of coral communities followed specific conditions that were acting at a fine scale in a complex and heterogeneous way within habitat. This implies that capturing the variability of fine‐scale coral dynamics is an important first step to detect accurate signals of coral recovery at larger spatial scales. The approach proposes here can be further extend to the scale of a reef and beyond enabling assessment of recovery patterns representative at management scales.
Melflufen in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma refractory to prior alkylators: A subgroup analysis from the OCEAN study
Authors: Schjesvold Fredrik H. , Ludwig Heinz , Mateos Maria‐Victoria , Larocca Alessandra , Abdulhaq Haifaa , Norin Stefan , Thuresson Marcus , Bakker Nicolaas A. , Richardson Paul G. , Sonneveld Pieter
Published: November 2023

Melphalan flufenamide (melflufen), a first‐in‐class alkylating peptide‐drug conjugate, plus dexamethasone demonstrated superior progression‐free survival (PFS), but not overall survival (OS), versus pomalidomide plus dexamethasone in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma in the OCEAN study. Time to progression (TTP) <36 months after a prior autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) was a negative prognostic factor for OS with melflufen. This post hoc exploratory analysis evaluated patients refractory to prior alkylators (e.g., cyclophosphamide and melphalan) in OCEAN. In 153 patients refractory to prior alkylators (melflufen, n = 78; pomalidomide, n = 75), the melflufen and pomalidomide arms had similar median PFS (5.6 months [95% CI, 4.2–8.3] vs. 4.7 months [95% CI, 3.1–7.3]; hazard ratio [HR], 0.92 [95% CI, 0.63–1.33]) and OS (23.4 months [95% CI, 14.4–31.7] vs. 20.0 months [95% CI, 12.0–28.7]; HR, 0.92 [95% CI, 0.62–1.38]). Among alkylator‐refractory patients with a TTP ≥ 36 months after a prior ASCT or no prior ASCT (melflufen, n = 54; pomalidomide, n = 53), the observed median PFS and OS were longer in the melflufen arm than the pomalidomide arm. The safety profile of melflufen was consistent with previous reports. These results suggest that melflufen is safe and effective in patients with alkylator‐refractory disease, suggesting differentiated activity from other alkylators.