bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Demographic Origins of the Start-up Deficit
Authors: Karahan Fatih , Pugsley Benjamin , Şahin Ayşegül
Published: June 2024

We propose a simple explanation for the long-run decline in the US start-up rate. It originates from a slowdown in labor supply growth since the late 1970s, largely predetermined by demographics. This channel can explain roughly half of the decline and why incumbent firm survival and average growth over the life cycle have changed little. We show these results in a standard model of firm dynamics and test the mechanism using cross-state variation in labor supply growth. Finally, we show that a longer entry rate series imputed using historical establishment tabulations rises over the 1960s–1970s period of accelerating labor force growth. (JEL D22, D25, E24, J11, J22, J23, M11)
The Gift of a Lifetime: The Hospital, Modern Medicine, and Mortality
Authors: Hollingsworth Alex , Karbownik Krzysztof , Thomasson Melissa A. , Wray Anthony
Published: June 2024

We explore how access to modern hospitals and medicine affects mortality by leveraging efforts of the Duke Endowment to modernize hospitals in the early twentieth century. The Endowment helped communities build and expand hospitals, obtain state-of-the-art medical technology, attract qualified medical personnel, and refine management practices. We find that Duke support increased the size and quality of the medical sector, fostering growth in not-for-profit hospitals and high-quality physicians. Duke funding reduced both infant mortality—with larger effects for Black infants than White infants—and long-run mortality. Finally, we find that communities aided by Duke benefited more from medical innovations. (JEL I11, I12, J13, J15, L31, N32, O31)
The economy of the oil and gas region
Authors: Beilin Igor'
Published: June 2024

The textbook is aimed at studying the features of economic systems and processes of oil and gas regions on the example of the Volga Federal District and institutional methodological approaches to stimulating their economic development. The presented educational material can be in demand in the professional activities of state authorities at the regional and federal levels, as well as top- The textbook is recommended for use in the educational process of undergraduate and graduate students in the areas of Economics", "Management", "State and municipal administration".
Marketing
Authors: Diesperova Natal'ya
Published: June 2024

The textbook examines the theory and practice of management, organization, and implementation of marketing activities of the company. The main components of marketing are presented: marketing analysis, development and promotion of the company's products and brands within the framework of the chosen development strategy. Special attention is paid to the use of digital technologies in marketing. The text is illustrated with examples from the global and Russian marketing experience.
Economic policy and inclusive industrial development of the oil and gas region
Authors: Beilin Igor'
Published: June 2024

The results of studies of the peculiarities of the organization of economic policy and, on their basis, methodological approaches to managing the inclusive production development of Russian regions with a budget-generating petrochemical complex are presented. The study was carried out using the example of oil and gas regions of the Volga Federal District, which, according to the methodology developed by the author, included the Republic of Bashkortostan, the Republic of Tatarstan, the Udmurt Republic, the Perm Territory, the Orenburg Region and the Samara Region.
Inclusive production development of the oil and gas region, developed on the basis of a balanced distribution of highly profitable oil and gas revenues from the federal and regional budgets, as well as profits of oil and gas companies through institutional mechanisms, is an effective tool for countering the oil and financial embargo and strengthening national technological sovereignty.
The results of the work may be in demand in research work in economic specialties; in the activities of government bodies, both at the federal and regional levels; in the activities of top management of vertically integrated and independent oil and gas companies; in the educational process of bachelor's and master's degrees in economic areas.
Deep Learning of Transition Probability Densities for Stochastic Asset Models with Applications in Option Pricing
Authors: Su Haozhe , Tretyakov M. V. , Newton David P.
Published: June 2024

Transition probability density functions (TPDFs) are fundamental to computational finance, including option pricing and hedging. Advancing recent work in deep learning, we develop novel neural TPDF generators through solving backward Kolmogorov equations in parametric space for cumulative probability functions. The generators are ultra-fast, very accurate and can be trained for any asset model described by stochastic differential equations. These are “single solve,” so they do not require retraining when parameters of the stochastic model are changed (e.g., recalibration of volatility). Once trained, the neural TDPF generators can be transferred to less powerful computers where they can be used for e.g. option pricing at speeds as fast as if the TPDF were known in a closed form. We illustrate the computational efficiency of the proposed neural approximations of TPDFs by inserting them into numerical option pricing methods. We demonstrate a wide range of applications including the Black-Scholes-Merton model, the standard Heston model, the SABR model, and jump-diffusion models. These numerical experiments confirm the ultra-fast speed and high accuracy of the developed neural TPDF generators.

This paper was accepted by Kay Giesecke, finance.

Funding: H. Su received research funding support from Nottingham Business School at Nottingham Trent University. M. V. Tretyakov was supported by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council [Grant EP/X022617/1]. D. P. Newton received research funding support from the School of Management at Bath University.

Supplemental Material: The online appendices and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.01448 .
Evaluation of Serum Renalase in Children with Recurrent Urinary Tract Infection and Renal Scars
Authors: Arslan Melike , Bayrakçı Umut Selda , Yakut Halil İbrahim , Çerkezoğlu Ali Ata
Published: June 2024

Objective: Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTI) are important risk factors for renal scarring. The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between renalase and renal scars in children.
Material and Methods: The study included 78 patients with recurrent UTI and 20 healthy controls. All patients had voiding cystourethrography and dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) scintigraphy. Serum renalase level were analyzed in children with recurrent UTI and controls.
Results: The study included the 78 patients with a history of recurrent UTI (7 boys, 9.0%; 71 girls, 91.0%) and 20 healthy children (3 boys, 15%; 17 girls, 85%) were included in the study. The mean age of the patients and healthy controls were 11.71±0.91 years and 12.35±1.83 years, respectively. Vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) was detected in 48.7% of patients (38/78). Of 45 recurrent UTI with renal scar, 71% also had VUR. The renalase level of the recurrent UTI group was found to be significantly higher than the control group (p=0.014). Renalase level was found to have a significant relationship with renal scars. The mean renalase level of the scar group was found to be significantly higher than the scar-free group (p=0.005). It was found that there was no statistical difference between the renalase means of children with scars depending on whether they had VUR or not (p=0.688).
Conclusion: This study suggests that renalase may play an important role in the formation of renal fibrosis and scars. After clarifying the role of renalase in renal scarring, it might come up as a new agent to prevent fibrosis and scar tissue development in patients with recurrent urinary tract infections.
Pulpitis pain relief by modulating sodium channels in trigeminal ganglia
Authors:   https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2020-5308, Lee Kyung-Hee
Published: June 2024

Objectives: The pulp is the center of the tooth containing nerves and blood vessels. The condition in which the pulp becomes inflamed due to caries or periodontitis is called pulpitis. Pulpitis is a difficult-to-treat disease and causes peripheral nerve tissue changes and severe pain; however, the relationship between neuronal activity and voltage-gated sodium channel 1.7 (Nav1.7) expression in the trigeminal ganglion (TG) during pulpitis has not been well studied. In this study, we found that experimentally induced pulpitis activates Nav1.7 expression in the periphery, leading to neuronal overexpression in the TG. Thus, we sought to identify ways to regulate this process. Methods: Acute pulpitis was induced in rat maxillary molars by treating the pulp with allyl isothiocyanate (AITC). Three days later, in vivo optical imaging was used to record and compare neural activities in the TG. Western blotting was used to identify molecular changes in terms of the expression of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), c-Fos, transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1), and collapsin response mediator protein-2 (CRMP2) in the brain stem. Results: The results confirmed the neurological changes in the TGs of the pulpitis model, and histological and molecular biological evidence confirmed that increased Nav1.7 expression induced by pulpitis leads to pain. Furthermore, selective inhibition of Nav1.7 resulted in changes in neural activity, suggesting that pulpitis induces increased Nav1.7 expression, and that effective control of Nav1.7 could potentially reduce pain. Conclusions: The inhibition of overexpressed Nav1.7 channels may modulate nociceptive signal processing in the brain and effectively control pain associated with pulpitis.
Knowledge economics and the demand for higher education
Authors: Kutrzeba Franciszek Filip
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To demonstrate that the changes in demand for higher education in Poland are partially caused due to the changes in consumer preferences. To examine the relationship between the supply-demand for higher education and massive open online courses. To present a novel approach to understanding the nature of the knowledge market and to demonstrate, that knowledge is misleadingly called to be non-rival and non-excludable.

Material and methods

The study employs the supply-demand model for the examination of the declined demand for higher education in Poland. It is a conceptualized approach that examines the possibility of new determinants behind the fore-mentioned trend.

Results

The appearance of a cheap and highly accessible form of knowledge acquisition, the massive open online courses, should have impact on the supply-demand quality of the knowledge produced and consumed. The results suggest, that the appearance of a cheaper substitute to scientific knowledge leads to a shift in consumers' preferences.

Conclusions

A decline in the enrollment rates in Poland and other high-income countries have taken place due to demographic shifts but possibly also to other factors such as the appearance of a cheaper substitute to knowledge offered by the Academia. This substitution effect is driven by technological advancements and cultural shifts towards free and open-source knowledge production. The knowledge market is described as volatile and characterized by imperfect competition. Technological advancements have led to an oversupply of knowledge, causing prices to decrease and demand to increase. The market for knowledge is transitioning from an oligopoly with high barriers to entry to a more cooperative and competitive environment (coopetition), where various forms of knowledge production coexist and interact.
Management Perspective in Museum Literature with the Evolution of High-tech Applications
Authors: Tran Nguyet Luong , Rudolf Wawrzyniec
Published: June 2024

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the adoption of information technology in museums and to identify the latest high-tech applications used in museums from the perspective of management. A systematic review of 250 English articles published in SCOPUS, classified into Business, Management, and Accounting, was conducted. The results showed that the number of publications on this topic steadily increased during the study period. The maximum number of publications occurred in 2023 and reached 43 documents. Authors from Europe, North America, and Oceania have contributed more to the investigation of the roles of technologies in museums. The results provide evidence of the significant evolution of high-tech applications in museums that have been investigated recently. Thanks to the Internet, social media, websites, mobile applications, big data, blockchain, etc., communication between museums and not only their visitors but also other stakeholders has improved effectively. In addition, the latest innovations, such as augmented reality, virtual reality, mixed reality, artificial intelligence, and eye-tracking technology, have provided visitors with a better experience in museums.
"A Totally Loyal Cuban": Afro-Cuban Boxer Teófilo Stevenson and the 1972 Olympic Games
Authors: Abreu Christina D.
Published: June 2024

ABSTRACT: The Afro-Cuban Teófilo Stevenson entered the world boxing scene at the 1972 Olympic Games in Munich, Germany. It was at those games that he won his first of three gold medals in heavyweight boxing and emerged as a Black celebrity, sports icon, and Cuban national hero. This article examines the overlapping and, at times, competing identities as they were constructed in Cuba's official discourse and in popular US and Cuban newspapers and magazines. The son of Black West Indian migrants, Stevenson stood out for more than his rejection of million-dollar offers to leave the island to pursue a professional boxing career in the United States. His remarks in support of the Cuban Revolution served as a kind of Black athletic activism that celebrated, at least implicitly, Cuba's progress on matters of racial equality and racial discrimination. RESUMEN: El afrocubano Teófilo Stevenson ingresó a la escena del boxeo mundial en los Juegos Olímpicos de 1972 en Múnich, Alemania. Fue en estos juegos donde él ganó la primera de sus tres medallas de oro en el boxeo de peso pesado y surgió como una celebridad negra, ícono deportivo y héroe nacional cubano. Este artículo examina estas identidades superpuestas y, a veces, en competencia, tal como fueron construidas en el discurso official de Cuba y en los periódicos y revistas populares de los Estados Unidos y Cuba. Hijo de inmigrantes antillanos, Stevenson se destacó por algo más que su rechazo de ofertas de millones de dólares para salir de la isla y seguir una carrera profesional en el boxeo en los Estados Unidos. Sus declaraciones en apoyo a la Revolución cubana sirvieron como un tipo de activismo atlético negro que celebraba, al menos implícitamente, el progreso de Cuba en materia de igualdad racial y discriminación racial.
Full mission evaluation of EnMAP water leaving reflectance products using three atmospheric correction processors
Authors: Soppa Mariana A. , Brell Maximilian , Chabrillat Sabine , Alvarado Leonardo M. A. , Gege Peter , Plattner Stefan , Somlai-Schweiger Ian , Schroeder Thomas , Steinmetz François , Scheffler Daniel , Brando Vittorio E. , Bresciani Mariano , Giardino Claudia , Colella Simone , Vansteenwegen Dieter , Langheinrich Maximilian , Carmona Emiliano , Bachmann Martin , Pato Miguel , Fischer Sebastian , Bracher Astrid
Published: June 2024

This study presents what we believe is the first extensive assessment of the water reflectance products from the German hyperspectral Environmental Mapping and Analysis Program (EnMAP). We evaluate EnMAP’s standard normalized water leaving reflectance [ρ
W
]
N
over 17 water sites in the first two years of the mission. The EnMAP [ρ
W
]
N
standard product is generated by a dedicated water atmospheric correction (AC) called the Modular Inversion Program (MIP). The quality of the [ρ
W
]
N
retrievals was assessed using in situ hyperspectral measurements and Aerosol Robotic Network - Ocean Colour (AERONET-OC) multispectral measurements. The results showed very good agreement between in situ hyperspectral match-ups and EnMAP [ρ
W
]
N
, with an underestimation of EnMAP of −17.37% (bias, β) and an error (ϵ) of 23.75% at 418 – 797 nm. Two other AC processors were also investigated: the polynomial based algorithm applied to MERIS (Polymer) and the atmospheric correction for OLI lite (Acolite). The intercomparison exercise between the three AC methods applied to EnMAP data using the hyperspectral match-up dataset showed better statistical metrics for MIP (ϵ=23%,β=−17.37%) compared to Polymer (ϵ=42.20%,β=−2.43%) and Acolite (ϵ=97%,β=97%). The superior performance of MIP was further confirmed by the validation results obtained with the multispectral match-up dataset; MIP retrievals show good agreement with in situ measurements at the majority of study sites. Conversely, Polymer and Acolite retrievals tended to overestimate, especially in clearer waters as the Lampedusa study site.
Temporally and longitudinally tailored dynamic space-time wave packets
Authors: Su Xinzhou , Zou Kaiheng , Zhou Huibin , Song Hao , Wang Yingning , Zeng Ruoyu , Jiang Zile , Duan Yuxiang , Karpov Maxim , Kippenberg Tobias J. , Tur Moshe , Christodoulides Demetrios N. , Willner Alan E.
Published: June 2024

In general, space-time wave packets with correlations between transverse spatial fields and temporal frequency spectra can lead to unique spatiotemporal dynamics, thus enabling control of the instantaneous light properties. However, spatiotemporal dynamics generated in previous approaches manifest themselves at a given propagation distance yet are not arbitrarily tailored longitudinally. Here, we propose and demonstrate a new versatile class of judiciously synthesized wave packets whose spatiotemporal evolution can be arbitrarily engineered to take place at various predesigned distances along the longitudinal propagation path. Spatiotemporal synthesis is achieved by introducing a 2-dimensional spectrum comprising both temporal and longitudinal wavenumbers associated with specific transverse Bessel-Gaussian fields. The resulting spectra are then employed to produce wave packets evolving in both time and axial distance – in full accord with the theoretical analysis. In this respect, various light degrees of freedom can be independently manipulated, such as intensity, polarization, and transverse spatial distribution (e.g., orbital angular momentum). Through a temporal-longitudinal frequency comb spectrum, we simulate the synthesis of the aforementioned wave packet properties, indicating a decrease in relative error compared to the desired phenomena as more spectral components are incorporated. Additionally, we experimentally demonstrate tailorable spatiotemporal fields carrying time- and longitudinal-varying orbital angular momentum, such that the local topological charge evolves every ∼1 ps in the time domain and 10 cm axially. We believe our space-time wave packets can significantly expand the exploration of spatiotemporal dynamics in the longitudinal dimension. Such wave packets might potentially enable novel applications in light-matter interactions and nonlinear optics.
A high-throughput behavioral screening platform for measuring chemotaxis by C. elegans
Authors: Fryer Emily , Guha Sujay , Rogel-Hernandez Lucero E. , Logan-Garbisch Theresa , Farah Hodan , Rezaei Ehsan , Mollhoff Iris N. , Nekimken Adam L. , Xu Angela , Seyahi Lara Selin , Fechner Sylvia , Druckmann Shaul , Clandinin Thomas R. , Rhee Seung Y. , Goodman Miriam B.
Published: June 2024

Throughout history, humans have relied on plants as a source of medication, flavoring, and food. Plants synthesize large chemical libraries and release many of these compounds into the rhizosphere and atmosphere where they affect animal and microbe behavior. To survive, nematodes must have evolved the sensory capacity to distinguish plant-made small molecules (SMs) that are harmful and must be avoided from those that are beneficial and should be sought. This ability to classify chemical cues as a function of their value is fundamental to olfaction and represents a capacity shared by many animals, including humans. Here, we present an efficient platform based on multiwell plates, liquid handling instrumentation, inexpensive optical scanners, and bespoke software that can efficiently determine the valence (attraction or repulsion) of single SMs in the model nematode, Caenorhabditis elegans. Using this integrated hardware-wetware-software platform, we screened 90 plant SMs and identified 37 that attracted or repelled wild-type animals but had no effect on mutants defective in chemosensory transduction. Genetic dissection indicates that for at least 10 of these SMs, response valence emerges from the integration of opposing signals, arguing that olfactory valence is often determined by integrating chemosensory signals over multiple lines of information. This study establishes that C. elegans is an effective discovery engine for determining chemotaxis valence and for identifying natural products detected by the chemosensory nervous system.
ST-CellSeg: Cell segmentation for imaging-based spatial transcriptomics using multi-scale manifold learning
Authors: Li Youcheng , Lac Leann , Liu Qian , Hu Pingzhao
Published: June 2024

Spatial transcriptomics has gained popularity over the past decade due to its ability to evaluate transcriptome data while preserving spatial information. Cell segmentation is a crucial step in spatial transcriptomic analysis, as it enables the avoidance of unpredictable tissue disentanglement steps. Although high-quality cell segmentation algorithms can aid in the extraction of valuable data, traditional methods are frequently non-spatial, do not account for spatial information efficiently, and perform poorly when confronted with the problem of spatial transcriptome cell segmentation with varying shapes. In this study, we propose ST-CellSeg, an image-based machine learning method for spatial transcriptomics that uses manifold for cell segmentation and is novel in its consideration of multi-scale information. We first construct a fully connected graph which acts as a spatial transcriptomic manifold. Using multi-scale data, we then determine the low-dimensional spatial probability distribution representation for cell segmentation. Using the adjusted Rand index (ARI), normalized mutual information (NMI), and Silhouette coefficient (SC) as model performance measures, the proposed algorithm significantly outperforms baseline models in selected datasets and is efficient in computational complexity.
Is the rise in childhood obesity rates leading to an increase in hospitalizations due to dengue?
Authors: Jeewandara Chandima , Karunananda Maneshka Vindesh , Fernando Suranga , Danasekara Saubhagya , Jayakody Gamini , Arulkumaran Segarajasingam , Samaraweera Nayana Yasindu , Kumarawansha Sarathchandra , Sivaganesh Subramaniyam , Amarasinghe Priyadarshanie Geethika , Jayasinghe Chintha , Wijesekara Dilini , Marasinghe Manonath Bandara , Mambulage Udari , Wijayatilake Helanka , Senevirathne Kasun , Bandara Aththidayage Don Priyantha , Gallage Chandana Pushpalal , Colambage Nilu Ranmali , Udayasiri Ampe Arachchige Thilak , Lokumarambage Tharaka , Upasena Yasanayakalage , Weerasooriya Wickramasinghe Pathiranalage Kasun Paramee ,   Seroprevalence study group, Ogg Graham S. , Malavige Gathsaurie Neelika
Published: June 2024

Background

Obesity and diabetes are known risk factors for severe dengue. Therefore, we sought to investigate the association of obesity with increased risk of hospitalization, as there is limited information.

Methods and findings

Children aged 10 to 18 years (n = 4782), were recruited from 9 districts in Sri Lanka using a stratified multi-stage cluster sampling method. Details of previous admissions to hospital due to dengue and anthropometric measurements were recorded and seropositivity rates for dengue were assessed. The body mass index (BMI) centile in children aged 10 to 18, was derived by plotting the values on the WHO BMI-for-age growth charts, to acquire the percentile ranking.

Results

Although the dengue seropositivity rates were similar in children of the different BMI centiles, 12/66 (18.2%) seropositive children with a BMI centile >97th, had been hospitalized for dengue, compared to 103/1086 (9.48%) of children with a BMI centile of <97th. The logistic regression model suggested that BMI centiles 50th to 85th (OR = 1.06, 95% CI, 1.00 to 1.11, p = 0.048) and BMI centile of >97th (OR 2.33, 95% CI, 1.47 to 3.67, p = 0.0003) was significantly associated with hospitalization when compared to children in other BMI categories.

Conclusions

Obesity appears to be associated with an increased risk of hospitalization in dengue, which should be further investigated in longitudinal prospective studies. With the increase in obesity in many countries, it would be important to create awareness regarding obesity and risk of severe disease and hospitalization in dengue.
Spatial-temporal evolution of technology flows in China’s Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region: Patent transfer networks 2003–2021
Authors: Yuan Xumei , Wei Fuli , Zhang Ming , Zhang Xu
Published: June 2024

This paper presents new evidence on knowledge flows in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region of China, involving 43 cities (districts) in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, based on the invention patent transfer data from the State Intellectual Property Office of China. First, the characteristics of technology flows in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region are analyzed in terms of changes in the number of flows, types of flowing subjects and spatial distribution characteristics. Then, a multi-level patent technology flow network in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region was constructed, and the structural characteristics and node characteristics of each level network were explored separately. The key findings of the study are as follows. (1) The number of patented technology flows has been growing over time, showing obvious phase characteristics during the study period. As a whole, the intra-city (district) technology flow in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region is higher than the inter-city (district). (2) The multi-level patent technology flow network in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region shows dynamic characteristics, with more and more mobile subjects participating in the patent technology flow network, some network nodes becoming closer to each other, and the trend of small group technology flow increasing significantly. (3) Enterprises are the core hub of the patent technology flow network in Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region. Individual invention patent technology transfer also occupies a high proportion and the participation of universities and colleges in the patent technology flow network in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region is gradually increasing. (4) Over time, the flow of patent technology in the 43 cities (districts) in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region has gradually become active and no longer relies excessively on a particular city (district) for patent technology transfer.
Analysis of prognostic factors in critically ill patients with COVID-19
Authors: Bartoszewicz Klaudia , Bartoszewicz Mateusz , Gradkowski Wojciech , Stróż Samuel , Stasiak-Barmuta Anna , Czaban Sławomir Lech
Published: June 2024

The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has caused a global health crisis. Mortality predictors in critically ill patients remain under investigation. A retrospective cohort study included 201 patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) due to COVID-19. Data on demographic characteristics, laboratory findings, and mortality were collected. Logistic regression analysis was conducted with various independent variables, including demographic characteristics, clinical factors, and treatment methods. The study aimed to identify key risk factors associated with mortality in an ICU. In an investigation of 201 patients comprising non-survivors (n = 80, 40%) and Survivors (n = 121, 60%), we identified several markers significantly associated with ICU mortality. Lower Interleukin 6 and White Blood Cells levels at both 24- and 48-hours post-ICU admission emerged as significant indicators of survival. The study employed logistic regression analysis to evaluate risk factors for in-ICU mortality. Analysis results revealed that demographic and clinical factors, including gender, age, and comorbidities, were not significant predictors of in-ICU mortality. Ventilator-associated pneumonia was significantly higher in Survivors, and the use of antibiotics showed a significant association with increased mortality risk in the multivariate model (OR: 11.2, p = 0.031). Our study underscores the significance of monitoring Il-6 and WBC levels within 48 hours of ICU admission, potentially influencing COVID-19 patient outcomes. These insights may reshape therapeutic strategies and ICU protocols for critically ill patients.
The impact of digital transformation on corporate green governance under carbon peaking and neutrality goals: Evidence from China
Authors: Wang Chuyi , Guo Jitao , Xu Wei , Qin Shanyong
Published: June 2024

Digital transformation, as a significant shift in optimizing enterprise resource allocation and enhancing information connectivity, offers the opportunity to stimulate the endogenous dynamics of corporate green governance. Employing a sample of 3,002 listed companies in China, a fixed-effects model, and the entropy power method to formulate a green governance index system, this study examines how digital transformation affects corporate green governance concerning carbon peaking and carbon neutrality objectives. According to these findings, the implementation of the digital transformation improves corporate green governance, each unit increase in digital transformation correlates with a 1.91% enhancement in green governance. Moreover, an examination of the mechanisms shows that green governance can be promoted by addressing information asymmetry and enhancing operational efficiency. Additionally, the association between corporate green governance and digital transformation is moderated favorably by strategic aggressiveness. Furthermore, our results indicate that digital transformation contributes significantly to the advancement of green governance within enterprises located in areas with high digital financing and strong technology integration capacities. Digitalization has a stronger effect on promoting green governance for enterprises in pilot regions than in non-pilot regions in terms of carbon emission trading. This study not only assists enterprises in elucidating the developmental trajectory of digital transformation amid carbon peaking and carbon neutrality goals but also provides a reference for decision-making on how digital technology can empower corporate green governance and promote sustainable economic growth.
Implementation barriers and facilitators for referral from the hospital to community-based lifestyle interventions from the perspective of lifestyle professionals: A qualitative study
Authors: te Loo Leonie M. , Holla Jasmijn F. M. , Vrijsen Joyce , Driessen Anouk , van Dijk Marlinde L. , Linders Lilian , van den Akker-Scheek Inge , Bouma Adrie , Schans Leah , Schouten Linda , Rijnbeek Patrick , Dekker Rienk , de Bruijne Martine , van der Ploeg Hidde P. , van Mechelen Willem , Jelsma Judith G. M. ,   on behalf of the LOFIT consortium
Published: June 2024

Purpose

A lifestyle front office (LFO) in the hospital is a not yet existing, novel concept that can refer patients under treatment in the hospital to community-based lifestyle interventions (CBLI). The aim of this study was to identify implementation barriers and facilitators regarding the implementation of an LFO in the hospital from the perspective of CBLI-professionals and to develop evidence-based implementation strategies to reduce these identified barriers.

Methods

We conducted semi-structured interviews until data saturation, with 23 lifestyle professionals working in the community. A semi-structured topic guide was used, inquiring about (1) community-based lifestyle interventions; (2) their views about referral from the LFO; and (3) their preferences, needs and recommendations for collaboration with the LFO in the hospital. The online interviews lasted on average 46 minutes, were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. A thematic content analysis was conducted. Found barriers and facilitators regarding the LFO where mapped using the consolidated framework for implementation research (CFIR) whereafter evidence based strategies were developed using the CFIR-Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change Strategy Matching Tool V.1.0 (CFIR-ERIC).

Results

Barriers and facilitators were divided into two main themes: 1) barriers and facilitators related to the referral from LFO to CBLI (i.e. financial, cultural, geographical, quality) and 2) barriers and facilitators related to the collaboration between LFO and CBLI (i.e. referral, communication platform and partnership). Thirty-seven implementation strategies concerning 15 barriers were developed and clustered into six overarching strategies: identify referral options, determine qualifications lifestyle professionals, develop support tools, build networks, facilitate learning collaboratives, and optimize workflow.

Conclusions

In this study, barriers and facilitators for the development of the LFO were found and matching implementation strategies were developed. Practical improvements, like identifying specific referral options or develop support tools, can be implemented immediately. The implementation of other strategies, like connecting care pathways in basic services, primary, secondary and tertiary care, will take more time and effort to come to full potential. Future research should evaluate all implemented strategies.
Efficacy of electrical stimulation for post-stroke motor dysfunction: A protocol for systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Zhou Yihao , Zhang Hongyan , Huo Hong , Yang Siyu , Zhang Ying , Cai Shaojie , Dong Xu , Wang Dongyan
Published: June 2024

Objective

This study aims to analyze the efficacy and safety of different electrical stimulation treatments for post-stroke motor dysfunction, and to quantitatively analyze the advantages between them and their possible benefits for patients.

Methods

We will systematically search seven databases. All of them will be retrieved from inception to 15, April 2024. Two reviewers will evaluation the risk of bias in all included studies with the version 2 of the Cochrane risk-of-bias assessment tool. Data synthesis will be performed using a random-effects model of network meta-analysis to compare the efficacy and safety of different electrical stimulation therapies. The surface under the cumulative ranking curve was used to indicate the possibility of the pros and cons of the intervention. The strength of evidence will be assessed by the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation framework.

Discussion

This study will provide evidence that electrical stimulation therapy can effectively improve motor function in stroke patients and will also provide some valuable references for clinical decision-making and treatment guidelines.

Trial registration

PROSPERO registration number: CRD42023459102.
The relationship between lameness prevalence and pasture access in 659 dairy herds in Germany
Authors: Tillack Anna , Merle Roswitha , Müller Kerstin-Elisabeth , Hoedemaker Martina , Jensen Katharina Charlotte , Bartel Alexander , Oehm Andreas W. , Klawitter Marcus , Stock Annegret
Published: June 2024

Lameness in dairy cows is an expression of pain most likely originating from a claw disorder, causing impaired animal wellbeing and substantial economic losses for farmers. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of access to pasture, time spent on pasture, and season on farm level lameness prevalence. The survey was part of a cross-sectional observational study, in which farms in three regions of Germany (North, East and South) were visited by study veterinarians. On each farm (total: 659, N: 240, E: 247, S: 172), management data were recorded, and cows were scored for locomotion, according to Sprecher. Median farm-level lameness prevalence (Score 3/5 or higher) was 29.4% (IQR: 18.7% - 42.0%), and 8.2% (IQR: 3.7% - 14.0%) for severe lameness (Score 4/5 or higher). Farm-level lameness prevalence continuously decreased with increasing time spent on pasture (up to approximately 10 hours per cow per day). On farms that did not offer their cows access to pasture lameness prevalence did not show a seasonal variation. On farms where cows had pasture access for up to three hours per day lameness prevalence peaked in autumn. In contrast, on farms offering their cows access to pasture beyond three hours per day the peak of lameness was observed in spring. Our results revealed that even short periods of pasture access of at least two hours per cow and day (on average per year) are beneficial for the locomotion of dairy cows.
Evaluation of the relationship between plasma glucagon-like peptide-2 and gastrointestinal dysbiosis in canine chronic enteropathies
Authors: Voudren Caylie D. , Mayhue Erin J. , Riehm Michelle D. , Jugan Maria C.
Published: June 2024

Chronic enteropathies are a common cause of morbidity in dogs and are associated with disruption of the normal gastrointestinal mucosal barrier. The objective of this prospective study was to determine the association between measures of gastrointestinal dysbiosis and plasma concentrations of glucagon-like peptide-2, a hormone responsible for normal mucosal structure, in dogs with chronic enteropathies. Fecal 16S V4 rRNA gene sequencing and quantitative PCR via the dysbiosis index was performed on 16 healthy controls and 18 dogs with chronic enteropathy prior to and 1 month after initiation of individualized therapy. Fasting and post-prandial plasma GLP-2 concentrations were measured via ELISA in healthy dogs and chronic enteropathy dogs at both time points. Alpha and beta diversity indices, as well as bacterial population abundances were compared between groups and time-points. Principal component analysis combined with least squares regression was used to identify taxa contributing to glucagon-like peptide-2 variance among groups. While the dysbiosis index did not differ between healthy dogs and dogs with chronic enteropathy, 16S V4 genomic sequencing identified 47 operational taxonomic units that differed between the groups, all but 2 of which resolved following chronic enteropathy treatment. Principal component analysis identified 6 families and 19 genera that contributed to differences in glucagon-like peptide-2 concentrations between groups. Dysbiosis associated with chronic enteropathies in dogs may contribute to the observed lower plasma glucagon-like peptide-2 concentrations. Further research into mechanisms of microbiota impact on the enteroendocrine system is needed. Association between glucagon-like peptide-2 secretion and microbiome indices may help to guide research into future treatment strategies for dogs with chronic enteropathy.
Impacts of sleep disturbance and work-related life stress on depression among Japanese and Chinese workers
Authors: Matsuda Eiko , Kikutani Mariko
Published: June 2024

The present study investigated how life stress and sleep disturbance impact depressive symptoms among Chinese (N = 185) and Japanese (N = 464) workers. Based on a hypothesis that sleep disturbance can cause depression, a statistical model is established, expecting that work-related life stress indirectly increases depressive symptoms by worsening sleep disturbance rather than initiating depression directly. The study also examined the buffering effects of social support on depression. The extent of depressive symptoms, sleep disturbance symptoms (insomnia, hypersomnia, and nightmare), work-related stressors, and available social support were measured. The result revealed that the extent of depression was equivalent for both groups, but the Chinese reported more stress, less social support, and more severe sleep disturbance symptoms than the Japanese. Despite those differences, the statistical model fitted both groups well, suggesting that addressing sleep disturbance at the earliest opportunity can effectively prevent depression onset for workers.
Prevalence and risk factors of intimate partner violence during the COVID-19 pandemic: Results from the population-based study DREAMCORONA
Authors: Mojahed Amera , Mack Judith T. , Staudt Andreas , Weise Victoria , Shiva Lakshmi , Chandra Prabha , Garthus-Niegel Susan
Published: June 2024

Objectives

This study examines the 12-month prevalence rates of intimate partner violence (IPV) victimization, including psychological, physical, and sexual forms, in women and men. It also aims to identify changes in IPV victimization during the COVID-19 pandemic and to explore factors associated with the occurrence of any IPV victimization during this period.

Methods

Data from the DREAMCORONA study in Germany collected from May 2020 to February 2021 included 737 participants, i.e., (expectant) mothers (64%) and fathers (36%). The Revised Conflict Tactics Scale (CTS2S) short form was used to assess the 12-month IPV victimization. Prevalence of IPV victimization as well as changes in IPV victimization during the pandemic were analyzed descriptively, with results stratified by sex. Multiple logistic regression was employed to identify risk factors for IPV.

Results

Psychological IPV was found to be the most prevalent form of violence, with the occurrence of any psychological IPV affecting 48.5% of women and 39.4% of men, while 2.6% of women and 3.3% of men reported the occurrence of any physical IPV victimization, and 2.8% of women and 1.5% of men reported the occurrence of any sexual IPV victimization. Of those who experienced the occurrence of any IPV in the last 12 months, 89.7% of women and 89.8% of men were victimized by one single act of violence. The majority of affected participants reported no change in psychological and physical IPV victimization during the pandemic. Nevertheless, for certain IPV behaviors on the psychological and physical IPV victimization subscales, both affected women and men also reported higher frequencies during the COVID-19 pandemic. Multiple logistic regression revealed that higher levels of relationship satisfaction were negatively associated with the occurrence of any IPV victimization for women and men, whereas greater levels of own anger-hostility symptoms were positively associated with the occurrence of any IPV victimization.

Conclusions

Psychological IPV was present in almost every second (expectant) couple. The majority of affected women and men reported no change in their psychological and physical IPV victimization, suggesting that they continued to experience IPV during the pandemic. This underlines the importance of promoting healthier relationship dynamics, coping strategies, and emotional well-being to reduce the risk of IPV, even in times of crisis. Our study sheds light on the early stages of the pandemic and highlights the ongoing need for research into the temporal dynamics of IPV.
The impact of an eco-score label on US consumers’ perceptions of environmental sustainability and intentions to purchase food: A randomized experiment
Authors: Taillie Lindsey Smith , Wolfson Julia A. , Prestemon Carmen E. , Bercholz Maxime , Ewoldt Laina , Ruggles Phoebe R. , Hall Marissa G.
Published: June 2024

Front-of-package labels indicating a product’s environmental footprint (i.e., eco-score labels) offer promise to shift consumers towards more sustainable food choices. This study aimed to understand whether eco-score labels impacted consumers’ perceptions of environmental sustainability and intentions to purchase sustainable and unsustainable foods. US parents (n = 1,013) completed an online experiment in which they were shown 8 food products (4 sustainable and 4 unsustainable). Participants were randomized to a control (n = 503, barcode on product packaging) or eco-score label group (n = 510, eco-score label on product packaging). The eco-score label was color-coded with a grade of A-F based on the product’s environmental footprint, where “A” indicates relative sustainability and “F” indicates relative unsustainability. Participants rated each product’s environmental sustainability and their future likelihood of purchase. We used multilevel mixed-effects linear regression models and examined moderation by product category and sociodemographic characteristics. The eco-score label lowered perceived sustainability of unsustainable products by 13% in relative terms or -0.4 in absolute terms (95% CI -0.5, -0.3; p<0.001). The eco-score label increased perceived sustainability of sustainable products by 16% in relative terms or 0.6 in absolute terms (95% CI 0.5, 0.7, p<0.001). Effects on purchase intentions were smaller, with a 6% decrease for unsustainable products (p = 0.001) and an 8% increase for sustainable products (p<0.001). For unsustainable products, the effect of eco-score labels on sustainability perceptions was greater for older adults, men, participants with higher educational attainment, and participants with higher incomes. For sustainable products, the effect of ecolabels on sustainability perceptions was greater for those with higher educational attainment. Eco-score labels have the potential to direct consumers towards more sustainable products. Future studies should investigate eco-score label effectiveness on behavioral outcomes.
Interventions targeting young people not in employment, education or training (NEET) for increased likelihood of return to school or employment—A systematic review
Authors: Stea Tonje Holte , Bertelsen Thomas Bjerregaard , Fegran Liv , Sejersted Ellen , Kleppang Annette Løvheim , Fyhn Tonje
Published: June 2024

The present systematic review aims to identify, synthesize, and evaluate evidence of effects from interventions targeting youth not in education, employment, or training (NEET). We searched relevant multidisciplinary databases to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and quasi-randomized re-engagement trials. Primary outcomes were participation in education and employment, and training status. Secondary outcomes included changes in financial status, quality of life and well-being, social functioning, and physical, psychological, and behavioral outcomes. The Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and PRISMA guidelines were applied. Eligible studies were screened, included, and extracted for data. Nine trials were included (eight RCTs and one quasi-experimental study), in which samples ranged from 96 to 7346 participants. Results on primary outcomes showed that five studies found an effect of interventions on employment outcomes, while three studies indicated an effect on education or training. Results on secondary outcomes included effects on mental health, subjective health complaints, drug use, self-esteem, and self-efficacy. Studies with other main outcomes than re-engagement showed an effect of interventions on pass rates for the driving test, independent housing, and increased job-seeking activities. Limitations and future directions are discussed, including the lack of rigorous studies, theoretical underpinnings, and standardized measures for re-engagement outcomes.

Systematic review registration: registered in PROSPERO, CRD42023463837.