bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does crude oil price volatility affect risk-taking capability in business group firms: evidence from India?
Authors: Tripathi Nitya Nand , Tiwari Aviral Kumar , Hammoudeh Shawkat , Kumar Abhay
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The study tests risk-taking and risk-aversion capabilities while distinguishing between business group firms and stand-alone firms and considering oil price volatility. Second, this attempt to study the linkage between risk-taking during market down movements and when the firms have established themselves as product market leaders. Third, this study analyses the “sentiment” state, where it explores the reaction of corporations when the market is in the negative direction, and lastly, it explores the linkage between product market competition and risk-aversion.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses financial information for 1,273 non-financial companies and other required data from various sources. The study employs panel data and utilizes different empirical methodologies, including the generalized method of moments (GMM) estimator, to test the stated hypotheses.

Findings

We find that the business group firms have more risk-taking proficiencies compared with the stand-alone firms. Moreover, this study discovers that the corporates avoid taking risks when the market is not performing well. Also, when the market is down and crude prices are high, the management expects high earnings in the future, willingly takes risks and shows that product market leaders do not follow the risk-aversion strategy.

Practical implications

The empirical results indicate that oil price movement can restrict management’s behaviour when choosing a risky investment project. Management should develop a robust policy that follows the group of firms. In the policy, the management should describe the level of risk that may be taken by the firm and implement it when required.

Originality/value

Since we do not find any studies in this context, then there is a major and essential gap in the literature that this study should fill.
Fluid workforce management in the health sector: navigating the changing face of workforces and their management
Authors: Samaan Daniel , Tursunbayeva Aizhan
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This paper demystifies the fluid workforce phenomenon increasingly discussed in the circles of organizational innovators and explores the characteristic aspects of the fluid workforce in the healthcare sector.

Design/methodology/approach

We analyze the concept and provide a generic review of definitions of a fluid workforce in relation to other similar concepts established in the academic and practitioner literature, contextualize the fluid workforce phenomenon in healthcare and distinguish relevant drivers and categories of fluid workers in this sector. We also discuss the implications of a fluid workforce for healthcare organizations, drawing on the health labor market and human resource management (HRM) practices frameworks.

Findings

The fluid workforce in healthcare is not new. Today’s main novelties are related to the wide diversity of types of fluid workforce that have emerged, the expanding scale of diffusion of the fluid workforce and the emergence of digital technologies to support HRM decisions. While a fluid workforce may provide solutions to address mismatches in the supply and demand of health workers, it can also worsen working conditions, increase dual practice and have implications for existing HRM practices.

Originality/value

We disentangle a novel term for the public sector, healthcare and HRM literature. We discern similarities and distinctions, presenting a framework for managing and analyzing this workforce at organizational and labor market levels in the healthcare sector. Acknowledging the challenges in estimating the existing fluid workforce labor market size, we offer practical methodologies to empirically estimate its prevalence within the healthcare industry and build an agenda for future research.
Delivering a culture change in property guardianship: recommendations for reform to the regulatory landscape
Authors: Bevan Chris
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Property guardianship is increasingly being viewed as an alternative and, in many cases, a last resort to the unaffordable private rental market. This upsurge in the incidence of guardianship necessarily amplifies the existing legal grey areas and the inherent insecurity and precarity in the sector for guardians. Drawing on interviews with property guardians and archival research, the purpose of this study is to explore the background to the guardianship occupation model; highlight the key problems guardianship generates and, building on this, propose recommendations for reform to the regulatory landscape of guardianship. This study argues that a culture change in property guardianship is needed so that guardians can be better protected, and local authorities empowered to be more proactive in overseeing standards of guardian properties in their areas.

Design/methodology/approach

This study draws on qualitative semi-structured interviews with 46 property guardians and archival research.

Findings

The author argues that property guardians routinely enter the sector largely as a matter of last resort based on financial considerations or following difficult life experiences. Insecure and precarious, guardianship operates under licence agreements which provide less protection for guardians. Coupled with ambiguity around the application of existing housing legislation to guardianship and research showing non-engagement by local authorities with guardianship, this study suggests regulatory reform is urgently needed.

Originality/value

With traditional residential tenancies in the private rental sector increasingly unaffordable for many and guardianship becoming a viable alternative, this study argues for significant regulatory reform to the guardianship sector to ensure guardians are adequately protected under the law. This study presents a series of proposals to deliver a culture change in the sector.
A sustainability assessment modeling-based external account of the impacts of mining activities in Brazil
Authors: Angotii Marcello , Ferreira Aracéli Cristina de S. , Eugénio Teresa , Branco Manuel , Queiroz Juliana Molina
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to propose and apply a sustainability assessment model (SAM) for the mineral extraction industry developed on the basis of elements of dialogic accounting.

Design/methodology/approach

Distinct from other similar exercises, ours is also one in external accounting that focuses on a set of mining companies operating in a specific geographical location. It was undertaken based on different perspectives from various stakeholders, including mining workers and city dwellers, retrospectively, using publicly available information, entirely independently of the set of companies regarding which impacts the authors try to offer an account and without their approval. Twenty indicators were identified from the perspective of value for society.

Findings

The results for all environmental externalities appeared to be negative, as companies’ attitudes continue to be reactive and on the threshold of legal requirements. This assessment of the selected social indicators emphasizes that accelerated expansion of mining activities poses a threat to the mining area in the long term, as it reduces the useful lives of mineral deposits and expands social and environmental externalities.

Practical implications

The authors propose to expand the horizon of accounting through a framework that combines elements of the SAM technology, dialogic accounting and external accounting. This investigation contributes to the development of social and environmental accounting practices through the discussion, proposal and use of an SAM, built with the cooperation of several social actors and from the perspective of the other rather than the entity.

Social implications

The authors tried to show how an SAM approach can be used in combination with dialogic accounting processes, increasing the accountability and awareness of the different groups of stakeholders, focusing on marginalized stakeholders, to offer an external account of the impacts of a set of companies from the mining sector operating in a specific geographical area.

Originality/value

This study’s findings suggest there are opportunities for accountants to support social and environmental accounting, thereby contributing to community awareness and empowering transformative action.
Treatment of giant neurofibromas in extremities and trunk wall of neurofibromatosis type 1 patients: a Chinese 12‐year single‐institution experience
Authors: Gao Qianqian , Yang Zhe , Ma Ning , Chen Sen , Li Yangqun
Published: May 2024

Backgrounds

Giant neurofibromas occurring in individuals diagnosed with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) often result in considerable disfigurement, functional impairment, and diminished quality of life. Although debulking surgery poses inherent risks of complications, it remains the most efficacious approach to address these issues. The primary objective of this study was to share our surgical experience with giant neurofibromas in the extremities and trunk wall of NF1 patients which may help surgeons to minimize intraoperative bleeding and facilitate tumor excision.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted at a single center, encompassing 36 NF1 patients with giant neurofibromas in the extremities and trunk wall who underwent debulking surgery from July 2010 to July 2022.

Results

Twenty‐one male and fifteen female NF1 patients who received one to four surgical interventions were evaluated. The average age at the time of surgery was 17.8 years. The median follow‐up time was 52 months. Our findings revealed relatively low rates of complications and recurrence. Notably, patients expressed satisfaction with both the aesthetic and functional results.

Conclusions

Debulking surgery of giant neurofibromas in the extremities and trunk wall of NF1 patients can effectively reduce the tumor burden, leading to improvements in both the appearance and function.
Branding the ‘VBA’ (Village Basketball Association) to revitalise a Miao village: Platform ruralism in the making
Authors: Zhang Han , Qian Junxi
Published: May 2024

In recent years, short‐video platforms represented by Douyin (TikTok) and Kuaishou (Kwai) have expanded to rural China. The rural, as an emerging ‘sunken market’ for digital platforms to generate revenue, has become an uncharted terrain for digital platforms to compete for, particularly in the context of the state's rural revitalisation strategy. Yao Shunwei, an independent photographer, uploaded a short video on Douyin in July 2022, recording a village basketball game in a Miao village (Taipan Village) in Guizhou to celebrate the Chixin Festival. The game quickly gained phenomenal popularity on digital platforms and was branded as ‘VBA’ (Village BA, appropriating the term NBA), contributing significantly to the revitalisation of the village. So far, work on rural places in their entanglement with digital platforms remains limited, lopsided on the rhetoric of a digital divide between the urban and the rural. Proposing the tentative concept of platform ruralism, this study probes into the emergent rural subjectivities and agencies vis‐à‐vis the negotiation, adaptation, innovation and autonomy of rural economies, livelihoods and socio‐cultural practices as they are imbricated by digital technologies and platforms. As such, it looks at how digital platforms have rescaled rural basketball activities and turned them into a nationally influential brand to enhance the wellbeing, social cohesion and cultural identity of rural communities. The branding of ‘VBA’ demonstrates how the rural can take on an active and resilient role in the rise of digital platforms.
Effects of replacing corn silage and soybean meal with an increasing percentage of fresh herbage on dairy cow nitrogen use efficiency and flows
Authors: Ferreira Manon , Delagarde Rémy , Edouard Nadège
Published: May 2024

To improve sustainability, dairy farms can reduce protein‐rich concentrate in the cows' diet providing fresh herbage produced on‐farm. This study aimed to quantify effects of increasing the percentage of fresh herbage (0%, 25%, 50%, and 75%, on a dry matter [DM] basis) in a partial mixed ration‐based diet on cow N use efficiency and excretion. The study was performed with five lactating cows, in a 4 × 4 Latin square design for four 3 week periods. Individual DM intake, milk yield, feces and urine excretions, and their N concentrations were measured daily. Dietary crude protein concentrations varied little among treatments (127 to 134 g/kg DM). DM intake and milk yield decreased linearly by 5.2 and 3.7 kg/day, respectively, while N use efficiency increased by 4.1 percentage points from 0% to 75% DM of fresh herbage in the diet. Urinary N was not influenced by the treatments, while fecal N decreased as the percentage of fresh herbage increased. This study highlights that replacing partial mixed ration with an increasing percentage of fresh herbage with slight changes in dietary N concentration increases N use efficiency and the percentage of urinary N in excreted N.
Changes associated with the COVID‐19 pandemic on postpartum screening results in Ontario, Canada: The healthy babies healthy children screening tool
Authors: Jin Ye (Hailey) , Corsi Daniel J. , Roberts Nicole F. , Sprague Ann E. , Solmi Marco , Saraf Gayatri , Gandhi Jasmine , Colman Ian , Walker Mark C. , Fiedorowicz Jess G.
Published: May 2024

Background

Research on the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on mothers/childbearing parents has mainly been cross‐sectional and focused on psychological symptoms. This study examined the impact on function using ongoing, systematic screening of a representative Ontario sample.

Methods

An interrupted time series analysis of repeated cross‐sectional data from a province‐wide screening program using the Healthy Babies Healthy Children (HBHC) tool assessed changes associated with the pandemic at the time of postpartum discharge from hospital. Postal codes were used to link to neighborhood‐level data. The ability to parent or care for the baby/child and other psychosocial and behavioral outcomes were assessed.

Results

The co‐primary outcomes of inability to parent or care for the baby/child were infrequently observed in the pre‐pandemic (March 9, 2019–March 15, 2020) and initial pandemic periods (March 16, 2020–March 23, 2021) (parent 209/63,006 (0.33%)–177/56,117 (0.32%), care 537/62,955 (0.85%)–324/56,086 (0.58%)). Changes after pandemic onset were not observed for either outcome although a significant (p = 0.02) increase in slope was observed for inability to parent (with questionable clinical significance). For secondary outcomes, worsening was only seen for reported complications during labor/delivery. Significant improvements were observed in the likelihood of being unable to identify a support person to assist with care, need of newcomer support, and concerns about money over time.

Conclusions

There were no substantive changes in concerns about ability to parent or care for children. Adverse impacts of the pandemic may have been mitigated by accommodations for remote work and social safety net policies.
Decoloniality and the Spectre of Modernity: Notes for a Theoretical Critique
Authors: Harruch Julián
Published: May 2024

This article examines a thesis that has become a common currency in Latin American critical thought, namely that ‘coloniality’ is constitutive of modernity. This proposition rests on a reifying conception of modernity as a Eurocentric civilisational project which, I contend, is theoretically flawed and politically pernicious. I will trace this conceptualisation of modernity and some of the problems it involves in recent works of Arturo Escobar and Walter Mignolo. I argue that modernity is better understood as a politico‐theoretical toolkit that, while having no immanent ideological content, is vital to the analysis and critique of (neo)colonialism and imperialism.
Developing conceptions of forgiveness across the lifespan
Authors: McLaughlin Abby , Marshall Julia , McAuliffe Katherine
Published: May 2024

Understanding how to respond to transgressions is central to cooperation, yet little is known about how individuals understand the consequences of these responses. Accordingly, the current study explored children's (ages 5–9), adolescents' (ages 11–14), and adults' (N = 544, predominantly White, ~50% female, tested in 2021) understandings of three such responses—forgiveness, punishment, and doing nothing. At all ages, participants differentiated between the consequences of these three responses. Forgiveness was associated with more positive and fewer negative outcomes, while the opposite was true for punishment and doing nothing. With age, participants were less likely to expect positive outcomes, and this effect was strongest for punishment and doing nothing. The results of this study allow novel insights into reasoning about three important response strategies.
Platelet‐rich plasma following endoscopic sinus surgery in patients with chronic sinusitis: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Albazee Ebraheem , Alsubaie Hemail M. , Alkanderi Roaa , Althaidy Mubarak , Alsafar Husain , Alsaleh Saad , Abdulrahman Shawkat
Published: May 2024

Introduction

To comprehensively evaluate the reported clinical effectiveness of platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) in patients with chronic sinusitis undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS).

Methods

We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs). Five digital online databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar and Cochrane CENTRAL) were searched from inception up to 1st May 2023. Our specific outcomes involved postoperative nasal endoscopy scores measured via Lund‐Kennedy score or Meltzer score, olfactory sensation scores and pre‐operative anosmia duration. All data were pooled as standardised mean difference (SMD) with a 95% confidence interval (CI), using the RevMan software.

Results

Six RCTs were included in this systematic review and meta‐analysis, with a total of 169 patients. The risk of bias in the included RCTs was low in three RCTs, some concerns in one RCT and high risk in two RCTs. The overall analysis of the postoperative nasal endoscopy scores showed that the PRP group had lower scores compared to the control group (n = 3 RCTs, SMD = −1.19; 95% CI [−1.94, −0.44], p = .002). There was no significant difference between the PRP and control groups regarding anosmia duration (n = 2 RCTs, SMD = 0.21; 95% CI [−0.17, 0.59], p = 0.28) or olfactory sensation scores, despite the PRP group having higher scores (n = 2 RCTs, SMD = 0.53; 95% CI [−0.32, 1.39], p = 0.22).

Conclusion

This study highlights the potential advantages of using PRP as an additional treatment for individuals with chronic sinusitis undergoing ESS. The improvements associated with PRP include facilitating wound healing, reducing inflammation and enhancing surgical outcomes. To optimise the use of PRP in clinical settings, future research should focus on conducting larger trials with standardised protocols.
Comparison of EsophyX2.0 and MUSE systems for transoral incisionless fundoplication: Technical aspects and outcomes up to 3 years
Authors: Testoni Sabrina Gloria Giulia , Pantaleo Giuseppe , Contu Federico , Azzolini Francesco , Fanti Lorella , Testoni Pier Alberto
Published: May 2024

Objectives

We compared the efficacy and safety of transoral incisionless fundoplication (TIF) with the EsophyX2.0 and MUSE systems for treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Methods

TIF outcomes from prospective protocols (Esophy2.0X: 2007–2012; MUSE: 2015–2019) were retrospectively compared regarding technical success, moderate/severe adverse events, morpho‐functional findings up to 1 year, and clinical outcomes up to 3 years. Inclusion criteria were: (i) at least 6‐month symptomatic GERD, full/partial response to proton pump inhibitors (PPI), esophagitis, and nonerosive reflux disease/hypersensitive esophagus (both protocols); (ii) hiatal hernia <3 cm (Esophy2.0X) and ≤2.5 cm (MUSE); and (iii) Barrett's esophagus <3 cm (MUSE).

Results

In the 50 EsophyX2.0 and 46 MUSE procedures, technical success and adverse event rates were similar, but MUSE‐related adverse events (4.4%) were life‐threatening. At 12 months, hiatal hernia recurred more frequently after EsophyX2.0 (P = 0.008). At 6 months, significantly fewer total and acid refluxes were reported after both TIF, but not more significantly at 1 year. Symptoms improved after both TIF up to 1 year (P < 0.0001), but to a greater extent in MUSE patients up to 3 years (P < 0.0001 vs. P < 0.01 for EsophyX2.0). The rates of 3‐year off‐PPI therapy patients were 73.5% in the MUSE and 53.3% in the EsophyX2.0 series (P = 0.069).

Conclusion

Although no conclusion could be drawn from this limited study, the MUSE technique seemed more effective in the long term in patients with hiatal hernia; however, there were more severe adverse events than with EsophyX2.0.
The circadian system: A neglected player in neurodevelopmental disorders
Authors: Bouteldja Ahmed A. , Penichet Danae , Srivastava Lalit K. , Cermakian Nicolas
Published: May 2024

Patients with neurodevelopmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder, often display abnormal circadian rhythms. The role of the circadian system in these disorders has gained considerable attention over the last decades. Yet, it remains largely unknown how these disruptions occur and to what extent they contribute to the disorders' development. In this review, we examine circadian system dysregulation as observed in patients and animal models of neurodevelopmental disorders. Second, we explore whether circadian rhythm disruptions constitute a risk factor for neurodevelopmental disorders from studies in humans and model organisms. Lastly, we focus on the impact of psychiatric medications on circadian rhythms and the potential benefits of chronotherapy. The literature reveals that patients with neurodevelopmental disorders display altered sleep–wake cycles and melatonin rhythms/levels in a heterogeneous manner, and model organisms used to study these disorders appear to support that circadian dysfunction may be an inherent characteristic of neurodevelopmental disorders. Furthermore, the pre‐clinical and clinical evidence indicates that circadian disruption at the environmental and genetic levels may contribute to the behavioural changes observed in these disorders. Finally, studies suggest that psychiatric medications, particularly those prescribed for attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder and schizophrenia, can have direct effects on the circadian system and that chronotherapy may be leveraged to offset some of these side effects. This review highlights that circadian system dysfunction is likely a core pathological feature of neurodevelopmental disorders and that further research is required to elucidate this relationship.
Imbalance between hippocampal projection cell and parvalbumin interneuron architecture increases epileptic susceptibility in mouse model of methyl CpG binding protein 2 duplication syndrome
Authors: Ge Junye , Xie Shengjun , Duan Jiamei , Tian Biqing , Ren Pengfei , Hu Erling , Huang Qiyi , Mao Honghui , Zou Yuxin , Chen Qian , Wang Wenting
Published: May 2024

Objective

Methyl CpG‐binding protein 2 (MECP2) duplication syndrome is a rare X‐linked genomic disorder affecting predominantly males, which is usually manifested as epilepsy and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) comorbidity. The transgenic line MeCP2Tg1 was used for mimicking MECP2 duplication syndrome and showed autism–epilepsy co‐occurrence. Previous works suggested that the excitatory/inhibitory (E/I) imbalance is a potential common mechanism for both epilepsy and ASD. The projection neurons and parvalbumin (PV) interneurons account for the majority of E/I balance in the hippocampus. Therefore, we explored how structural changes of projection and PV+ neurons occur in the hippocampus of MeCP2Tg1 mice and whether these morphological changes contribute to epilepsy susceptibility.

Methods

We used the interneuron Designer receptors exclusively activated by designer drugs mouse model to inhibit inhibitory neurons in the hippocampus to verify the epilepsy susceptibility of MeCP2Tg1 (FVB, an inbred strain named as sensitivity to Friend leukemia virus) mice. Electroencephalograms were recorded for the definition of seizure. We performed retro‐orbital injection of virus in MeCP2Tg1 (FVB):CaMKIIα‐Cre (C57BL/6) mice or MeCP2Tg1:PV‐Cre (C57BL/6) mice and their littermate controls to specifically label projection and PV+ neurons for structural analysis.

Results

Epilepsy susceptibility was increased in MeCP2Tg1 mice. There was a reduced number of PV neurons and reduced dendritic complexity in the hippocampus of MeCP2Tg1 mice. The dendritic complexity in MeCP2Tg1 mice was increased compared to wild‐type mice, and total dendritic spine density in dentate gyrus of MeCP2Tg1 mice was also increased. Total dendritic spine density was increased in CA1 of MeCP2Tg1 mice.

Significance

Overexpression of MeCP2 may disrupt crucial signaling pathways, resulting in decreased dendritic complexity of PV interneurons and increased dendritic spine density of projection neurons. This reciprocal modulation of excitatory and inhibitory neuronal structures associated with MeCP2 implies its significance as a potential target in the development of epilepsy and offers a novel perspective on the co‐occurrence of autism and epilepsy.
Adult poison dart frogs avoid potential heterospecific competitors using their sense of smell
Authors: Schulze Elisa , Lipkowski Konrad , Abondano Almeida Diana , Schulte Lisa M.
Published: May 2024

Olfaction is the oldest sense in the animal kingdom. It is used during a multitude of behaviours, such as the encounter of food, the detection of predators, the recognition of habitat‐related cues or the communication with conspecifics. While the use of olfaction and chemical communication has been studied widely in some animals, it is barely known in others. Anurans (frogs and toads), for example, are well known to use acoustic and visual senses, but their chemical sense is still largely understudied. Studies concerning the chemical sense in anurans have been mostly based on the use of semiochemicals in juvenile stages, while the information on adult anurans remains limited. In this study, we analysed the behavioural response of the Neotropical poison frog Ranitomeya sirensis (Sira poison frog, Dendrobatidae) when presented with the odours of prey, novel/prey‐luring fruit, habitat, conspecific faeces and heterospecifics. For this, we offered each of the odours by placing them into one of two testing tubes fixed in an arena, with the other tube left empty as a control. We then measured the time the frogs spent in the vicinity of the odour versus the control tube and calculated a response index. While the frogs did not show a significant avoidance or attraction towards most of the tested odours, they showed a strong response towards the heterospecific odour, which was significantly avoided. This is the first evidence of a poison dart frog responding towards the odours of adult heterospecific frogs. We consider potential reasons for this strong negative reaction, such as the interspecific competition avoidance hypothesis, and discuss our results in the context of other animal species being deterred or attracted by heterospecific chemical cues.
Effectiveness of dose‐dense methotrexate, vinblastine, doxorubicin, and cisplatin as compared to gemcitabine‐based regimens as neoadjuvant chemotherapy for oncologic outcomes in muscle‐invasive bladder cancer cases—Single‐center study in Japan
Authors: Mitsui Yozo , Okawa Mizuho , Hori Shunsuke , Uetani Masato , Kasahara Mizuki , Yamabe Fumito , Kobayashi Hideyuki , Nagao Koichi , Nakajima Koichi
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To compare the efficacy and safety of dose‐dense methotrexate, vinblastine, doxorubicin, and cisplatin (dd‐MVAC) with gemcitabine‐based regimens for neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) in muscle‐invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) patients treated in Japan.

Methods

Data for MIBC patients who received NAC‐dd‐MVAC followed by a radical cystectomy from June 2019 to May 2023 performed at our hospital were analyzed. For comparisons, data for MIBC patients who received NAC gemcitabine and cisplatin (GC) or gemcitabine and carboplatin (GCarbo) therapy between January 2010 and March 2019 were also obtained. Rates of ypT1N0 or less, progression‐free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and NAC adverse effects were compared between the GC/GCarbo and dd‐MVAC regimens.

Results

Results for 32 patients who received dd‐MVAC and 30 who received GC/GCarbo NAC therapy were analyzed. ypT1N0 or less was noted in 40.7% of the dd‐MVAC and 40.0% of the GC/GCarbo groups, while ypT0N0 rates were 25% and 10%, respectively, with no statistical differences noted. However, Kaplan–Meier analysis of the total cohort demonstrated that dd‐MVAC was associated with significantly better PFS and OS rates than GG/GCarbo (hazard ratios: 0.33, p = 0.0237, and 0.23, p = 0.0127, respectively). Propensity‐matched models also showed similar results for both PFS and OS. Adverse effects of dd‐MVAC were acceptable and the incidence of hematologic toxicity was lower as compared with GC/GCarbo therapy.

Conclusion

The present study is the first to show that dd‐MVAC as NAC can provide better survival as compared with a gemcitabine‐based regimen for patients with MIBC treated in Japan.
Role of arylalkylamine N‐acetyltransferase 7 in reproduction and limb pigmentation of Aedes aegypti
Authors: Tang Yu , Jiang Linlong , Huang Yuqi , Chen Zhaohui , Merkler David J. , Zhang Lei , Han Qian
Published: May 2024

Arylalkylamine N‐acetyltransferase (aaNAT) is a crucial enzyme that catalyses the transfer of acetyl groups from acetyl coenzyme A to arylalkylamines and arylamines. Evolutionary studies have identified a distinct class of aaNATs specific to mosquitoes, yet their functions remain elusive. This study focuses on Ae‐aaNAT7, a mosquito‐unique gene in Aedes aegypti (Diptera:Culicidae), to explore its functionality. Temporal and spatial expression analysis of Ae‐aaNAT7 mRNA revealed high expression during embryonic development and in first‐instar larvae, with notable expression in the limbs of adult mosquitoes based on tissue expression profiling. By further employing CRISPR/Cas9 technology for loss‐of‐function studies, our investigation revealed a reduction in the area of white spotting in the limbs of Ae‐aaNAT7 mutant adult mosquitoes. Further investigation revealed a significant decrease in the fecundity and hatchability of the mutants. Dissection of the ovaries from Ae‐aaNAT7 heterozygous mutants showed a noticeable reduction in the oocyte area compared with wild type. Dissection of the exochorion of the eggs from Ae‐aaNAT7 homozygous mutants consistently revealed a striking absence of mature embryos. In addition, RNA interference experiments targeting Ae‐aaNAT7 in males resulted in a reduction in fecundity, but no effect on hatchability was observed. These collective insights underscore the substantial impact of Ae‐aaNAT7 on reproduction and its pivotal contribution to adult limb pigmentation in Ae. aegypti. These revelations offer insights pivotal for the strategic design of future insecticide targets.
COVID‐19and autoimmune rheumatic disease: behavioural changes adopted by patients amid the pandemic
Authors: Dey Dzifa , Katso Bright , Issaka Saudatu , Adjei Patrick
Published: May 2024

Background

Amid concerns about severe COVID‐19 in patients with autoimmune rheumatic disease (AIRD) during the outbreak, it is crucial to explore behavioural changes, whether healthy or unhealthy, arising from this patient population in response to the changing healthcare environment.

Aim

To investigate COVID‐19‐driven behavioural changes in patients with AIRD.

Methods

This observational study invited patients who attended the rheumatology clinic of the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital from 1 August 2020 to 1 July 2021, to respond to a survey questionnaire distributed on the patient's WhatsApp platform. Variables observed were changes in patient behaviour and decision‐making related to medication, healthcare service utilisation and clinical advice.

Results

Results for 233 patients were analysed in the study, the majority (89.7%) of whom were women. The most significant behavioural changes were a reduction in hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) dosage, adoption of telemedicine for clinical consultation and keen adherence to protective/preventive health measures. Patients also expressed anxiety regarding the risk of contracting COVID‐19 (52.5%), infecting their families (66.5%) and losing income (50.2%) due to the pandemic. Women and students were more likely to engage in self‐isolation/shielding behaviour. Employed participants practised social distancing more, reduced HCQ dosage and had more fear of losing income. Having mixed connective tissue disease is associated with being anxious about the risk of COVID‐19 infection.

Conclusion

The COVID‐19 pandemic has resulted in behaviour changes among patients with AIRD. Despite the perceived risk, most of these patients continue to adhere to their prescribed medication regimens, especially maintaining the dosage of traditional immunosuppressive agents.
Singing Justice for Women and Land
Authors: Mangililo Ira D. , Plet Naw Phoo , Siahaan Dina E.
Published: May 2024

Using an ecofeminist reading of Isaiah 5:1‐7, this article offers the Song of the Vineyard as a poem spoken from the perspective of the woman experiencing the social crisis in 8th‐century Judah. Using a powerful rhetoric to convey her message, the woman dared to speak out against the unjust circumstances that threatened the well‐being of her people and land. This paper also explores the role of the vineyard as an agent that raises its voice against injustice. Lastly, this paper creates a dialogue between an ancient voice and the voice of Asian women today. It shows the struggles of Asian women such as the Kendeng women farmers to achieve social justice and justice for the natural environment. This paper calls for churches and the Christian community to hear the voices of the land and women and to take significant actions to end the violence against women and the land.
Precision diagnostics in paediatric dermatology: Advancing management of tinea capitis through dermatophyte PCR
Authors: Theiler M. , Luchsinger I. , Rast A. C. , Schwieger‐Briel A. , Weibel L. , Bosshard P. P.
Published: May 2024

Background

Tinea capitis (TC) is the most frequent dermatophyte infection in children requiring systemic and topical treatment for several weeks. Traditionally, diagnosis and treatment monitoring were based on microscopic examination and fungal culture of scales and plucked hairs, which both have significant limitations.

Objectives

To investigate the role of dermatophyte polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in the treatment of TC.

Methods

Scales and plucked hairs of children with TC were investigated by dermatophyte PCR, microscopic examination and fungal culture at baseline and during antifungal treatment.

Results

Seventeen children with TC were included. At baseline, sensitivity of PCR was 100% as compared to 60% and 87% for direct microscopy and fungal culture, respectively. Species identification by PCR and fungal culture was consistent in all cases. During follow‐up, analysis of 38 samples under treatment showed a sensitivity of PCR, direct microscopy and fungal culture of 68%, 26% and 89% while specificity was 84%, 100% and 100%, respectively. PCR during therapy proved to be false‐negative in six and false‐positive in three instances. The latter turned negative after 4 weeks without further systemic treatment.

Conclusions

Dermatophyte PCR is an excellent tool for baseline diagnostics of TC providing rapid and accurate results. Our findings suggest that due to the fast and reliable results, it may replace direct microscopy and fungal culture to confirm or exclude TC in children. In the treatment course, diagnostic accuracy and performance of PCR seem reduced as compared to fungal culture, limiting its value for treatment monitoring. Mycological cure ascertained by fungal culture should currently remain the therapeutic goal.
Effects of walnut consumption for 2 years on older adults' bone health in the Walnuts and Healthy Aging (WAHA) trial
Authors: Oliver‐Pons Carla , Sala‐Vila Aleix , Cofán Montserrat , Serra‐Mir Mercè , Roth Irene , Valls‐Pedret Cinta , Domènech Mònica , Ortega Emilio , Rajaram Sujatha , Sabaté Joan , Ros Emilio , Chiva‐Blanch Gemma
Published: May 2024

Background

Nutritional strategies to maintain bone health in aging individuals are of great interest. Given the beneficial nutrient composition of walnuts, rich in alpha‐linolenic (the vegetable n‐3 fatty acid) and polyphenols, their regular consumption might be a dietary option to reduce age‐related bone loss. We determined whether daily walnut consumption improves bone mineral density (BMD) and circulating biomarkers of bone turnover.

Methods

The Walnuts and Healthy Aging study (WAHA) is a two‐center, parallel, randomized controlled trial evaluating the effect of a diet enriched with walnuts at ≈15% energy compared with a control diet for 2 years on age‐related health outcomes in healthy men and women aged 63–79 years. Changes in BMD were a prespecified secondary outcome only at the Barcelona node of the trial, where 352 participants were randomized. Retention rate was 92.6%. Primary endpoints were 2‐year changes in BMD at the spine and the nondominant femoral neck, determined by dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA). Secondary endpoints were 2‐year changes in bone turnover biomarkers (adrenocorticotropic hormone, Dickkopf WNT signaling pathway inhibitor‐1, osteoprotegerin, osteocalcin, osteopontin, sclerostin, parathyroid hormone, and fibroblast growth factor‐23), which were quantified in 211 randomly selected participants.

Results

The walnut diet versus the control diet had no effect on 2‐year changes in BMD at the spine (0.15% vs. 0.35%, p = 0.632) and femoral neck (−0.90% vs. −0.70%, p = 0.653), or on bone turnover biomarkers. Results were similar in participants treated or not with bone resorption inhibitors or those with or without osteoporosis/osteopenia at inclusion.

Conclusions

Compared with the usual diet, a diet enriched with walnuts at 15% of energy for 2 years failed to improve BMD or circulating markers of bone metabolism in healthy older people.
Carbon market integration, productivity, and welfare: A quantitative analysis
Authors: Liu Yuying , Wang Yongjin , Li Xiaofan
Published: May 2024

China's carbon market is far from being integrated. This paper studies how carbon emissions reduction and carbon market integration affect China's aggregate productivity and welfare via a quantitative spatial general equilibrium model with as a by‐product of production. We find that (1) were carbon emission rights to be allowed to be traded across regions, (i) if there is no technological growth, China's overall productivity and real GDP would increase by 10.26%, and 27.19% respectively, and welfare would decline slightly by 0.92%; (ii) if the technology grows at the present growth rate, China's total output, real GDP and welfare would increase by 9.97, 38.57, and 7.79%, respectively; (2) were nine regional carbon trading markets integrated, China's overall productivity, real GDP and welfare would increase by 4.35, 29.17, and 7.75%, respectively.  Carbon market integration enables China to achieve economic development at a lower cost.
Do you need a chief technology officer? The effect of appointing a CTO on innovation activities in high‐tech new ventures
Authors: Gu Yu , Wang Lihua , Mai Yiyuan
Published: May 2024

Technological innovation is critical for high‐tech new ventures (HTNVs), and the position of Chief Technology Officer (CTO) has become increasingly crucial in top management teams (TMTs). Drawing upon the upper echelons theory and the attention‐based view of the firm, we examined a sample of 429 HTNVs in China between 2014 and 2019 to test whether and how appointing a CTO and the CTO's characteristics affect the new ventures' innovation activities. The results show that having a CTO position promotes HTNVs' exploratory innovation activities but does not affect exploitative innovation activities. While a longer CTO tenure positively affects exploratory innovation, it hinders exploitative innovation. In addition, a CEO serving as the CTO in a HTNV has a negative effect on exploitative innovation activities but no effect on exploratory innovation activities. This effect is contingent on the CEO's technological background and whether the CEO owns shares in the HTNV. The findings of this study enrich the literature on the upper echelons theory, the attention‐based view, and entrepreneurship and innovation and provide rare empirical evidence on whether and how appointing a CTO, CTO characteristics, and the interaction of CTO characteristics and CEO characteristics affect HTNVs' innovation activities in emerging markets.
Long‐term complications in acute porphyria
Authors: Pischik Elena , Lissing Mattias , Pallet Nicolas , Kauppinen Raili
Published: May 2024

New treatment options and low attack‐related mortality have changed the life expectancy of patients with acute porphyria (AP) to that of the general population. Clinicians should therefore be aware of the long‐term complications of AP, which typically include chronic neuropathy and encephalopathy, high blood pressure and porphyria‐associated kidney disease. Patients have an increased risk of primary liver cancer (PLC), but no increased risk of non‐hepatic cancers. Chronic pain occurs in patients with recurrent attacks, combined with chronic fatigue and nausea, leading to poor quality of life. Patients with sporadic attacks may also have chronic symptoms, which should be distinguished from mild recurrent attacks and treated appropriately. Sequels of acute polyneuropathy after an attack should be distinguished from ongoing chronic polyneuropathy, as the management is different. Overestimation of chronic neuropathy or encephalopathy caused by AP should be avoided, and other causes should be treated accordingly. Prevention of recurrent attacks is the best strategy for managing chronic comorbidities and should be actively accomplished. Hormonal interventions in female patients, or in severe cases, prophylactic givosiran or haematin, may be helpful before liver transplantation to prevent recurrent attacks. Regular monitoring can be personalised according to the patient's age, comorbidities and AP activity. Blood pressure, renal function and cardiovascular risk factors should be monitored annually in patients with previous symptoms. Appropriate medication and lifestyle management, including nutrition and hydration, are necessary to prevent complications. As PLC is common, especially in patients with acute intermittent porphyria, bi‐annual surveillance after the age of 50 is important.
A Kick for the GDP: The Effect of Winning the FIFA World Cup
Authors: Mello Marco
Published: May 2024

This paper uses OECD data to examine whether winning the men's FIFA World Cup boosts GDP growth, as claimed by analysts and media outlets concomitantly with every edition of this football competition. By implementing both an event‐study design and a synthetic difference‐in‐difference strategy, the analysis shows that winning the World Cup increases year‐over‐year GDP growth by at least 0.48 percentage points in the two subsequent quarters. This result seems primarily driven by enhanced export growth, which is consistent with a greater appeal enjoyed by national products and services on the global market after victory in a major sporting event.
Refractive power profiles of commercially available soft multifocal contact lenses for myopia control
Authors: Dang Rebecca M. , Ehrmann Klaus , Jalbert Isabelle , Hui Alex , Kang Pauline
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Lens power profiles can provide valuable insights on the imposed optical defocus and visual experience of contact lens wearers, especially in the context of myopia control. This study measured the refractive power profiles of multifocal soft contact lenses (MFCLs) currently used or that have the potential for use in myopia control using high spatial resolution aberrometry. The instrument's repeatability for determining MFCLs power profiles was also assessed.

Method

The power profiles of 10 MFCLs of various designs (centre‐distance, centre‐near and extended depth of focus) were measured using the Lambda‐X NIMOEVO, a phase shifting Schlieren‐based device. Power profiles were graphically expressed as measured power at each chord position and the maximum add power was calculated. The repeatability of the NIMOEVO was expressed as the within‐subject standard deviation at each chord position for a subset of five MFCLs.

Results

The measured distance powers differed from nominal powers for more than half of the MFCLs with a definable distance zone. There were variations in the chord position of the distance and near correction zones, rate of power transitions and calculated maximum add between the MFCLs which did not depend on lens design. For half of the MFCLs, the power profile shape was inconsistent between different nominal back vertex powers of the same design. The repeatability of the NIMOEVO was dependent on the lens design, with designs featuring faster rates of power change exhibiting worse repeatability.

Conclusions

Significant differences in MFCL power profiles were found which were not adequately represented in labelling. This is likely due to the small number of parameters used to define lens power characteristics. Eye health care practitioners should be aware of potential differences in power profiles between different MFCLs, which will impact the retinal defocus introduced during lens wear and the wearer's visual experience.