bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mapping the research landscape on food and nutritional literacy: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Sweileh Waleed
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The study aims to analyze research trends and hotspots in the field of food and nutrition literacy to inform evidence-based policymaking, and promote the health and well-being of the general population.

Design/methodology/approach

The Scopus database was used to retrieve relevant research articles using specific keywords related to food or nutritional literacy.

Findings

The analysis included 341 research articles, predominantly authored by scholars from the USA. Growth pattern of publications indicated recent evolution of the food and nutrition literacy concepts. The research hotspots identified included the development of tools to assess literacy, assessing food and nutritional literacy competencies among school children and adolescents and finally, cross-sectional survey studies on various international cultures to assess food and nutritional literacy. The top cited articles in the field focused on the operational definition and difference between nutrition literacy and food literacy.

Research limitations/implications

The findings underscore the need for comparative studies across countries, and advocacy for policy change to advance food and nutrition literacy among school students and vulnerable populations.

Practical implications

Policymakers, public health officials and practitioners can use the research findings to inform the development of evidence-based policy frameworks and interventions aimed at addressing the gaps in food and nutrition literacy.

Social implications

By promoting and advocating for policy reforms, and addressing gaps in food and nutrition literacy, the study contributes to fostering global future public health.

Originality/value

The study provides insights into the evolving research landscape on food and nutrition literacy, emphasizing the growing scholarly interest in understanding the concept and its public health impact.
Consumers’ acceptance intention towards interest-free home financing: decomposition approach of TPB model
Authors: Shaikh Imran Mehboob , Noordin Kamaruzaman
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to determine factors that contribute to consumers’ intention to opt for interest-free home financing or mortgage adapting decomposition approach of the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) model.

Design/methodology/approach

For this study, judgemental and purposive sampling was used and over 300 respondents who are using or willing to use equity-based Islamic mortgages were selected for analysis.

Findings

According to the findings of this study, consumers’ intention towards the interest-free mortgage is influenced primarily by their attitude, subjective norm and perceived behavioural control but also by the additional construct of their innovativeness of consumers as well as decomposed variables such as perceived relative advantage and perceived compatibility, but most importantly, peers. Overall, the study’s findings show that the suggested model clarifies a better knowledge of the factors that influence consumers’ choices to accept interest-free mortgage financing.

Research limitations/implications

Considering this research to be limited in terms of coverage geographically and the theory rendered the context should be given proper attention when interpreting future outcomes. Furthermore, future researchers can extend the direct relationship by using attitude as a mediator and also test adding a moderating variable when conducting a cross-sectional study.

Originality/value

This work is mainly focused on consumers’ intention to use Islamic mortgages. Current research incorporates and validates consumer innovativeness and introduces decomposed variables, namely, peers, perceived relative advantage and perceived compatibility to the TPB model. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the decomposition of variables with the main predictors in the setting of an interest-free mortgage in Pakistan, the decomposition approach of the TPB model has not yet been attempted.
Tribological performance of used engine oil treated with cement and celite adsorbents by solvent extraction-adsorption method
Authors: Uğur Alper
Published: September 2024

Purpose

As lubricating oils are used, their performance deteriorates and they become contaminated. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the lubrication performance of reclaimed 5 W-30 a fully synthetic used engine oil (UEO) with wear tests after refining it from a solvent-based extraction method using solvent (1-PrOH) and adsorbent materials such as cement, celite and deep eutectic solvent (DES).

Design/methodology/approach

The treated oil mixtures were prepared by blending engine oils with various adsorbent materials at 5% (w/w) in organic 1-PrOH solvent at a UEO: solvent ratio of 1:2 (w/w). The measurement of kinematic viscosity, density, the total acid number (TAN) and elemental analysis of oil samples was done by the ASTM standards D445/D446, D4052, D974 and D6595, respectively. Adsorbents and treated oil samples characterized by SEM-EDX, FTIR and UV analysis, respectively. Meanwhile, lubricating performance in tribological applications was evaluated through the wear test device using a rotating steel alloy 1.2379 cylinder and a stationary 1.2738 pin under 20, 40 and 80 kg load conditions. Worn surface analysis was done with SEM and 2.5D images.

Findings

It was found that when using the combination of cement and celite as an adsorbent in the reclamation of used engine oil demonstrated better lubricant properties. The properties of used engine oil were improved in the manner of kinematic viscosity of 32.55 from 68.49 mm2/s, VI (Viscosity index) value of 154 from 130, TAN of 3.18 from 4.35 (mgKOH/g) and Fe content of 11 from 32 mg/L. The anti-wear properties of used engine oil improved by at least 32% when 5% cement and 5% celite adsorbent materials were used together.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is based on findings from a fully synthetic 5 W-30 A5 multi-grade engine lubrication oil collected after driving approximately 12.000 km.

Practical implications

The results are significant, as they suggest practical regeneration of used engine oil is achievable. Additionally, blending fresh oil with reclaimed used engine oil in a 1:1 ratio reduced wear loss by over 10% compared to fresh oil.

Social implications

Reusing used engine oils can reduce their environmental impact and bring economic benefits.

Originality/value

This study showed that the properties of UEO can be enhanced using the solvent extraction-adsorption method. Furthermore, the study provided valuable insights into the metal concentrations in engine oil samples and their impact on lubrication performance. The order of the number of the grooves quantity and the possibility of the observed scuffing region trend relative to the samples was UEO > 5W-30 fresh oil > Treated oil sample with the adsorbent cement and celite together.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-06-2024-0209/
Social capital and postgraduate EFL students’ academic performance
Authors: Moradi Abbasabady Mahmoud , Razeghi Nader
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study focuses on two aspects of academic performance, namely achievement in courses and research performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The statistical population of the study consisted of all postgraduate English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students at Iranian national universities in the academic year 2022–2023. The research method used in this study was the survey method, and the data were collected through a questionnaire. The research sample included 360 Iranian postgraduate EFL students who were selected by proportional stratified sampling.

Findings

The results indicated that social capital had a significant, positive effect on the academic performance of postgraduate students. The dimensions of social trust, a subcategory of social capital, had a significant impact on academic performance in general and on course-related achievement and research performance in particular. Intimacy of network, size of social network, quality of network and access to network significantly affected academic performance from most to least, respectively.

Social implications

The results suggest strengthening intimate relationships and trust in the university environment, fostering continuous interactions between professors and students in informal networks and enhancing social trust for higher achievements at university.

Originality/value

This work has not been submitted or published anywhere else. The value of the study lies in the fact that social capital could lead to stronger relationship, higher motivation, knowledge sharing, support networks, collaborative learning and engagement in learning.
Manifesting learning in the workplace: an activity theoretical study of professional learning in preschool using active learning classrooms
Authors: Spante Maria , Moffitt Philip
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is the development of a methodology that draws on activity theory (AT) to assess educators’ and leaders’ professional learning in a pre-school setting.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reports on a case study of professional development in an active learning classroom (ALC) where 20 professionals participated in a one-day writing workshop. AT was used to analyse the writing workshop as well as data from reflective writing, video recordings, interviews and surveys.

Findings

The paper shows that professional development is significantly influenced by a range of mediating technologies used in educational spaces such as the ALC. The mediated practice breaks normal work practice in the pre-school activity system and division of labour roles, and hierarchical positions and professional relationships. Such a break is considered to facilitate a manifestation of professional learning. However, it also poses a risk for organisational disruptions emphasising the need for diagnostic understanding when an ALC should be used for capturing workplace learning.

Practical implications

Structured writing workshops – taking place in ALCs – provide a suitable forum that breaks with routines, accelerates collective reflections and articulation of negotiated meaning and produces a common ground across hierarchical roles supporting collective professional development in the activity system.

Originality/value

Unlike previous research focusing on student perspectives, this study views these spaces as settings for professionals to recognise and solve developmental problems. It suggests that structured writing workshops in ALCs can accelerate collective reflection and support collective professional development across hierarchical roles.
Indirect corporate political strategy in cross-border acquisitions: influence of political affinity on target-dependent firm lobbying
Authors: Hasija Dinesh , Abdurakhmonov Mirzokhidjon , Brown Lee Warren , Liou Ru-Shiun
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To mitigate the impact of legitimacy concerns, firms often depend on strategic partnerships that enable them to navigate both complex political landscapes and regulatory environments. In this paper, the authors expand research into the dynamics of indirect and collective forms of corporate political activities (CPA), particularly focusing on multinational enterprises (MNEs) originating from countries with low political affinity with the host country and its allies.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a sample consisting of 2,173 friendly acquisitions in the USA made by 1,612 foreign acquirers originating from 66 countries, the authors used Tobit regression analysis to test the direct and moderating hypotheses.

Findings

The empirical evidence shows that acquiring MNEs grappling with heightened legitimacy issues due to low political affinity between the involved countries are more inclined to leverage target firms for effective lobbying resources. This tendency is amplified when the multilateral political affinity between the home and the host country's allies is also considered.

Originality/value

The evolving nature of global politics and the increasing scrutiny of corporate-political interactions necessitate a deeper understanding of indirect CPA strategies. The findings of this research shed light on how bilateral and multilateral political relations affect MNEs’ corporate political activities, specifically in the form of indirect, collective lobbying.
Viscosity models of tri-hybrid non-Newtonian nanofluid with Cattaneo–Christov heat flux, thermal radiation, Ohmic heating and convective boundary condition
Authors: Chaudhary Santosh , Deshwal Jyoti
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study is to examine the impact of viscous dissipation, thermal radiation and Ohmic heating on the magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) flow with thermal and mass transport over a horizontally stretching surface. Cattaneo–Christov heat flux model on a non-Newtonian viscous fluid along with two viscosity models and convective boundary condition has been employed. Tri-hybrid nanofluid has been used to increase thermal performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Governing mathematical model has been transposed into a dimensionless system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) by applying suitable similarity transformation. Numerical solution has been found by applying the bvp4c shooting method in MATLAB software.

Findings

Velocity and thermal profiles of Model-I dominate the profiles of Model-II whereas opposite behavior is noticed for concentration profiles. It is concluded that there is an increase in temperature due to thermal radiation, viscous dissipation and convective boundary condition.

Originality/value

The novelty of presented work is to examine the impact of Ohmic heating, viscous dissipation, thermal radiation, chemical reaction and two models of viscosity on Cattaneo–Christov heat flux model of tri-hybrid non-Newtonian nanofluid with convective boundary constraint. The accuracy and effectiveness of presented model have been compared with already published research.
Effects of corporate social responsibility on sustained competitive advantage: a moderated mediation model
Authors: Maheshwari H. , Jena Lalatendu Kesari , Priyadarshini R.G. , Kumar V. Vijay
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims more than just assess the direct relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustained competitive advantage (SCA). It explores the subtleties of how these impacts might be amplified or altered by socially responsible leadership (SRL). The study emphasizes how important community service (CS) is mediating this complicated connection.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, a survey instrument tailored for employees of Indian private multinational corporations (MNCs) and public sector undertakings/government organizations (PSU/Govt. Orgn.) was used. A total of 517 questionnaires were used for subsequent analysis. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was then carried out on four self-reported scales to assess the discriminant validity of both samples. Subsequently, regression analysis was performed to check the effect of CSR on SCA, with CS acting as a mediator and SRL serving as a moderator.

Findings

The findings affirm that CS mediates the relationship between CSR and SCA. Simultaneously, SRL is identified as a moderator in the association between CS and SCA. The mediating role of CS in connecting CSR to SCA holds for both private and public sectors, highlighting the importance of community engagement. A notable observation is the limited prevalence of SRL among PSU/Govt. Orgn. respondents.

Research limitations/implications

This study emphasizes the pivotal role of CSR in transforming companies into socially responsible entities, thereby augmenting corporate reputation and goodwill. Furthermore, the influence of SRL is highlighted as a moderator in the CSR−SCA relationship, impacting both private and public organizations. This research presents a conceptual framework of moderated mediation, shedding light on the complex relationship between CSR and SCA.

Originality/value

This study illuminates the importance of CS and SRL as critical elements in achieving SCA by recognizing a gap in current research. This distinctive perspective enhances the study's originality, providing novel insights into the intricate interplay between CSR, CS, SRL and SCA.
The influence of transformational leadership on knowledge sharing of teachers: the roles of knowledge-centered culture and perceived organizational support
Authors: Hoang Tue Ngoc , Le Phong Ba
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the effect of transformational leadership (TL) on tacit and explicit knowledge sharing (KS) of teachers through the mediating role of knowledge-centered school culture (KSC). This study also attempts to bring a deeper insight into the correlation between KSC and KS behaviors by exploring the moderating effect of perceived organizational support (POS).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper used a quantitative approach and structural equation modeling to examine the relationship among the latent factors in the research model using data collected from 293 teachers in Vietnamese universities.

Findings

The findings indicated that TL positively influences tacit and explicit KS behaviors of teachers directly or indirectly through its positive effect on KSC. In addition, the paper highlights the moderating role of POS in strengthening the impact of TL on tacit and explicit KS behaviors of teachers.

Research limitations/implications

This paper emphasizes the need to practice TL as an effective pathway to foster tacit and explicit KS behaviors of teachers in higher education.

Originality/value

The paper significantly contributes to enhancing understanding of the antecedent role of TL in fostering knowledge-centered culture and KS behaviors of teachers under the moderating effects of POS in higher education.
Analytic solutions for effective elastic moduli of isotropic solids containing oblate spheroid pores with critical porosity
Authors: Zong Zhaoyun , Chen Fubin , Yin Xingyao , Rezaee Reza , Gallais Théo Le
Published: September 2024

Accurate characterization for effective elastic moduli of porous solids is crucial for better understanding their mechanical behaviour and wave propagation, which has found many applications in the fields of engineering, rock physics and exploration geophysics. We choose the spheroids with different aspect ratios to describe the various pore geometries in porous solids. The approximate equations for compressibility and shear compliance of spheroid pores and differential effective medium theory constrained by critical porosity are used to derive the asymptotic solutions for effective elastic moduli of the solids containing randomly oriented spheroids. The critical porosity in the new asymptotic solutions can be flexibly adjusted according to the elastic moduli – porosity relation of a real solid, thus extending the application of classic David‐Zimmerman model because it simply assumes the critical porosity is one. The asymptotic solutions are valid for the solids containing crack‐like oblate spheroids with aspect ratio < 0.3, nearly spherical pores (0.7 < < 1.3) and needle‐like prolate pores with  > 3, instead of just valid in the limiting cases, for example perfectly spherical pores (= 1) and infinite thin cracks (0). The modelling results also show that the accuracies of asymptotic solutions are weakly affected by the critical porosity and grain Poisson's ratio , although the elastic moduli have appreciable dependency of and . We then use the approximate equations for pore compressibility and shear compliance as inputs into the Mori–Tanaka and Kuster–Toksoz theories and compare their calculations to our results from differential effective medium theory. By comparing the published laboratory measurements with modelled results, we validate our asymptotic solutions for effective elastic moduli.
Allan's A‐list: The Subscription List to Allan Ramsay's Poems of 1721
Authors: Pittock Murray
Published: September 2024

The new and first complete edition of the works of Allan Ramsay (1684–1758) in six volumes is beginning to draw renewed attention towards this important poet. This essay examines one of the key unexamined puzzles of his career: how an Edinburgh wigmaker apparently without any advantage of birth and connexions succeeded in gathering an enormously distinguished subscription list — including nearly sixty peers and eight dukes — for his first key collection of poems. The answer lies both in the powerful and interlocking networks which Ramsay had inherited, cultivated, or adopted and in the particular culture and political moment in post‐Union Edinburgh in which he came to maturity. Ramsay's key network groups are discussed under four headings: Jacobites; friends and clubs; local dignitaries, family links, professionals and merchants; patronage and wider artistic networks.
Multidisciplinary nutritional support team and mortality in critically ill patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Oh Tak Kyu , Lee Kyunghwa , Cho Jungwon , Song In‐Ae
Published: September 2024

Background

A careful approach is required when providing nutritional support to patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). This study investigated whether implementing a multidisciplinary nutritional support team (NST) is associated with improved survival outcomes in patients with ARDS.

Methods

In a nationwide population‐based cohort study, all adult patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) in South Korea with a primary diagnosis of ARDS from January 1, 2017, to December 31, 2021, were included. The NST comprised four professionals (physicians, full‐time nurses, full‐time pharmacists, and full‐time clinical dietitians). Patients admitted to ICUs with and without the NST system were allocated to the NST and non‐NST groups, respectively.

Results

The analysis comprised a total of 15,555 patients with ARDS. Among them, 6615 (42.5%) were in the NST group, and 8940 (57.5%) were in the non‐NST group. After adjusting for covariates in the multivariable logistic regression, the NST group showed a 19% lower 30‐day mortality than the non‐NST group (odds ratio: 0.81, 95% confidence interval: 0.75–0.87, p < .001). Furthermore, after adjusting for covariates in multivariable Cox regression, the NST group showed a 12% lower 1‐year all‐cause mortality than the non‐NST group (hazard ratio: 0.88, 95% confidence interval: 0.85–0.92, p < .001).

Conclusions

NST implementation was associated with enhanced 30‐day and 1‐year survival rates in patients with ARDS. These findings indicate that nutritional support provided by the NST may influence the survival outcomes of patients with ARDS in the ICU.
Proteomic Profiles of Maternal Plasma Extracellular Vesicles for Prediction of Preeclampsia
Authors: Than Nándor Gábor , Romero Roberto , Fitzgerald Wendy , Gudicha Dereje W. , Gomez‐Lopez Nardhy , Posta Máté , Zhou Fei , Bhatti Gaurav , Meyyazhagan Arun , Awonuga Awoniyi O. , Chaiworapongsa Tinnakorn , Matthies Doreen , Bryant David R. , Erez Offer , Margolis Leonid , Tarca Adi L.
Published: September 2024

Problem

Preeclampsia is a heterogeneous syndrome of diverse etiologies and molecular pathways leading to distinct clinical subtypes. Herein, we aimed to characterize the extracellular vesicle (EV)‐associated and soluble fractions of the maternal plasma proteome in patients with preeclampsia and to assess their value for disease prediction.

Method of Study

This case–control study included 24 women with term preeclampsia, 23 women with preterm preeclampsia, and 94 healthy pregnant controls. Blood samples were collected from cases on average 7 weeks before the diagnosis of preeclampsia and were matched to control samples. Soluble and EV fractions were separated from maternal plasma; EVs were confirmed by cryo‐EM, NanoSight, and flow cytometry; and 82 proteins were analyzed with bead‐based, multiplexed immunoassays. Quantile regression analysis and random forest models were implemented to evaluate protein concentration differences and their predictive accuracy. Preeclampsia subgroups defined by molecular profiles were identified by hierarchical cluster analysis. Significance was set at p < 0.05 or false discovery rate‐adjusted q < 0.1.

Results

In preterm preeclampsia, PlGF, PTX3, and VEGFR‐1 displayed differential abundance in both soluble and EV fractions, whereas angiogenin, CD40L, endoglin, galectin‐1, IL‐27, CCL19, and TIMP1 were changed only in the soluble fraction (q < 0.1). The direction of changes in the EV fraction was consistent with that in the soluble fraction for nine proteins. In term preeclampsia, CCL3 had increased abundance in both fractions (q < 0.1). The combined EV and soluble fraction proteomic profiles predicted preterm and term preeclampsia with an AUC of 78% (95% CI, 66%–90%) and 68% (95% CI, 56%–80%), respectively. Three clusters of preeclampsia featuring distinct clinical characteristics and placental pathology were identified based on combined protein data.

Conclusions

Our findings reveal distinct alterations of the maternal EV‐associated and soluble plasma proteome in preterm and term preeclampsia and identify molecular subgroups of patients with distinct clinical and placental histopathologic features.
Aortic regurgitation in left ventricular assist device patients: Does aortic root dilatation contribute to valve incompetence?
Authors: Färber Gloria , Schneider Ulrich , Gräger Stephanie , Elayan Yousef , Schwan Imke , Tkebuchava Sophie , Kirov Hristo , Caldonazo Tulio , Diab Mahmoud , Doenst Torsten
Published: September 2024

Background

Aortic regurgitation (AR) is a known complication after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation potentially leading to recurrent heart failure. Possible pathomechanisms include valvular pathologies and aortic root dilatation. We assessed aortic root dimensions in a group of consecutive LVAD patients who received HeartMate 3.

Methods

Since 11/2015, we identified 68 patients with no or mild AR at the time of HeartMate 3 implantation who underwent serial echocardiography to assess AR and aortic root dimensions (annulus, sinus, and sinotubular junction). Median follow‐up was 40 months (2–94 months). Results were correlated with clinical outcomes.

Results

Patients were 60 ± 10 years old, predominantly male (88%) and 35% presented in preoperative critical condition as defined by INTERMACS levels 1 and 2. During follow‐up, 23 patients developed AR ≥ II (34%). Actuarial incidence was 8% at 1 year, 29% at 3 years and 41% at 5 years. Echocardiography revealed practically stable root dimensions at the latest follow‐up compared to the preoperative state (annulus: 23 ± 3 mm vs. 23 ± 2 mm, sinus: 32 ± 4 mm vs. 33 ± 3 mm, sinotubular junction: 27 ± 3 mm vs. 28 ± 3 mm), irrespective of the development of AR. Serial CT angiograms were performed in 13 patients to confirm echocardiographic findings. Twenty‐one patients died during LVAD support leading to a 5‐year survival of 71%, showing no difference between patients with and without AR ≥ II (p = 0.573).

Conclusions

At least moderate AR develops over time in a substantial fraction of patients (one‐third over 3 years). The mechanism does not seem to be related to dilatation of the aortic annulus or root.
Early growth response 1 exacerbates thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection of mice by inducing the phenotypic switching of vascular smooth muscle cell through the activation of Krüppel‐like factor 5
Authors: Han Xueyu , Xu Shengnan , Hu Ke , Yu Yi , Wang Xiukun , Qu Chuan , Yang Bo , Liu Xin
Published: September 2024

Aim

Vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) phenotypic switching has been reported to regulate vascular function and thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection (TAAD) progression. Early growth response 1 (Egr1) is associated with the differentiation of VSMCs. However, the mechanisms through which Egr1 participates in the regulation of VSMCs and progression of TAAD remain unknown. This study aimed to investigate the role of Egr1 in the phenotypic switching of VSMCs and the development of TAAD.

Methods

Wild‐type C57BL/6 and SMC‐specific Egr1‐knockout mice were used as experimental subjects and fed β‐aminopropionitrile for 4 weeks to construct the TAAD model. Ultrasound and aortic staining were performed to examine the pathological features in thoracic aortic tissues. Transwell, wound healing, CCK8, and immunofluorescence assays detected the migration and proliferation of synthetic VSMCs. Egr1 was directly bound to the promoter of Krüppel‐like factor 5 (KLF5) and promoted the expression of KLF5, which was validated by JASPAR database and dual‐luciferase reporter assay.

Results

Egr1 expression increased and was partially co‐located with VSMCs in aortic tissues of mice with TAAD. SMC‐specific Egr1 deficiency alleviated TAAD and inhibited the phenotypic switching of VSMC. Egr1 knockdown prevented the phenotypic switching of VSMCs and subsequently suppressed the migration and proliferation of synthetic VSMCs. The inhibitory effects of Egr1 deficiency on VSMCs were blunted once KLF5 was overexpressed.

Conclusion

Egr1 aggravated the development of TAAD by promoting the phenotypic switching of VSMCs via enhancing the transcriptional activation of KLF5. These results suggest that inhibition of SMC‐specific Egr1 expression is a promising therapy for TAAD.
High prevalence of antibodies against feline calicivirus in Australian feral and stray cat (Felis catus) populations
Authors: Amery‐Gale J , Woinarski JCZ , Hartley CA , Devlin JM
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Feline calicivirus (FCV) commonly causes upper respiratory tract, oral and ocular infections in species of the family Felidae, with high prevalence amongst domestic cat (Felis catus) populations worldwide. Detection of FCV‐specific antibodies in serum provides evidence of previous infection with FCV and an indication of whether a cat may be protected against clinical FCV disease. This study describes the most extensive sampling for anti‐FCV antibodies in feral and stray cat populations in Australia, and examines variation in prevalence associated with cat age, sex and location.

Methods

Blood samples were opportunistically collected from 669 feral, stray or Indigenous community cats from the Northern Territory, South Australia, Victoria, south‐east Tasmania and south‐west New South Wales. The sera were harvested and tested for antibodies capable of neutralising the FCV vaccine strain F9 by serum‐virus neutralisation assay.

Results

Of the 669 cats tested, 69.7% had detectable FCV‐F9‐neutralising antibodies (titres ≥5). Maturity was significantly associated with higher seroprevalence and higher antibody titres, with adult cats being more than twice as likely to have detectable FCV‐neutralising antibodies than subadults. Male cats had a higher seroprevalence and slightly higher antibody titres than females. Cats living in closer proximity to humans had significantly higher seroprevalences and higher FCV‐neutralising antibody titres than feral cats from more remote regions of Australia.

Conclusion

Australian feral and stray cats have a high risk of natural exposure to and infection with FCV, with the prevalence and levels of pre‐existing immunity to FCV being highest amongst adult cats living in highly modified urban, peri‐urban and agricultural environments.
Long‐term outcomes of avascular necrosis in sickle cell disease using joint‐specific patient‐reported outcome measures: Results from a multicentre study
Authors: Casale Maddalena , Toro Giuseppe , Porcelli Federica , Quota Alessandra , Rosso Rosamaria , Spadola Vincenzo , Arcioni Francesco , Campisi Saveria , Roberti Domenico , Perrotta Silverio
Published: September 2024

Avascular necrosis (AVN) is a prevalent and progressive complication in young patients with sickle cell disease (SCD), but no study evaluated the long‐term subjective and objective outcome measures. Oxford hip score (OHS) and Oxford shoulder scores (OSS) are validated joint‐specific patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs). In this prospective multicentre study, 47 SCD patients with pre‐existing diagnosis of AVN occurred at a median age of 35.9 (24.2–47.6) filled out the OHS and OSS at median follow‐up of 9.4 years (4.5–12.9). No patient died after diagnosis of AVN. Hip AVN was present in 34 (72%) patients, with bilateral involvement in 25 (74%); 26 (59%) underwent total hip arthroplasty (THA) at a median age of 34.6 (22.6–49.5); and 4 (15%) required re‐surgery. OHS revealed moderate to severe impairment both in patients underwent THA and no hip surgery. Shoulder AVN was present in 13 (6%) patients and OSS revealed mild to moderate impairment. A high rate of compromised joint function and pain was observed 10 years after diagnosis of AVN regardless of the type of treatment, outlying the need to improve the management of this sickle‐related complication. OHS and OSS are validated joint‐specific PROMs easy to use in all SCD centres.
Exploring Parents' Experiences and Needs During Disclosure of a Cerebral Palsy Diagnosis of Their Young Child: A Scoping Review
Authors: van der Kemp J. , Ketelaar M. , Rentinck I. C. M. , Sommers‐Spijkerman M. P. J. , Benders M. J. N. L. , Gorter J. W.
Published: September 2024

Background

Parents often perceive the news that their child has cerebral palsy (CP) as overwhelming and shocking. They are at increased risk of parental stress and mental health problems, which in turn can affect the interaction between the parent and the child. Parental mental health outcomes are known to be affected by the process of disclosure of a diagnosis. In this study, we aimed to synthesize the current knowledge about parents' experiences and needs regarding communication during the disclosure of the diagnosis of their child with (or at risk of) CP.

Methods

A scoping review following the methodological steps outlined by the Joanna Briggs Institute was performed using PubMed, Embase, CINAHL and PsycINFO. We qualitatively explored parent‐reported experiences and needs across included studies, using thematic analysis.

Results

A total of 19 studies were included. Six themes were identified, three in relation to experiences (i.e., preceding experiences and feelings, perceptions of the disclosure and emotional impact) and three in relation to needs (i.e., transparency in information, supportive attitude and having a say). Despite high variability across studies regarding parental needs, most studies reported the need for (i) honest and clear information, (ii) good communication skills amongst professionals and (iii) emotional and practical support after diagnosis.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that parents' experiences and needs in the period when their child's diagnosis of (high risk of) CP is communicated are highly variable, due to an interplay of personal and contextual factors. To facilitate good communication during disclosure, it is crucial that health care professionals assess and understand this complex process and consider parents' needs for open communication and autonomy in the process. Therefore, professionals need to attune to parents' needs and their individual preferences regarding conversations about their child with (or at risk of) CP.
What is the relationship between industry‐specific regulation and technology startups?
Authors: Palagashvili Liya , Suarez Paola A
Published: September 2024

We examine the relationship between industry‐specific regulations and startup birth rates (entry) and startup ‘deaths’ (closings) in the United States and Canada during 2012–19. Our sample contains data on thousands of active and closed technology startups in the United States and Canada that were founded between January 2012 and June 2019. We use the Mercatus Center's RegData database to capture the intensity of national‐level regulations. Our findings suggest that more regulated industries may exhibit lower rates of entry and that more regulated industries are associated with a greater likelihood of a startup closing. These findings seem more robust for the US than for Canada. We discuss startup funding as a potential mechanism by which regulation may impact startup closings, using our fieldwork interviews with over 100 technology startup executives and venture capital investors.
Hybrid deep learning models with data fusion approach for electricity load forecasting
Authors: Özen Serkan , Yazıcı Adnan , Atalay Volkan
Published: September 2024

This study explores the application of deep learning in forecasting electricity consumption. Initially, we assess the performance of standard neural networks, such as convolutional neural networks (CNN) and long short‐term memory (LSTM), along with basic methods like ARIMA and random forest, on a univariate electricity consumption data set. Subsequently, we develop hybrid models for a comprehensive multivariate data set created by merging weather and electricity data. These hybrid models demonstrate superior performance compared to individual models on the univariate data set. Our main contribution is the introduction of a novel hybrid data fusion model. This model integrates a single‐model approach for univariate data, a hybrid model for multivariate data, and a linear regression model that processes the outputs from both. Our hybrid fusion model achieved an RMSE value of 0.0871 on the Chicago data set, outperforming other models such as Random Forest (0.2351), ARIMA (0.2184), CNN (0.1802), LSTM + LSTM (0.1496), and CNN + LSTM (0.1587). Additionally, our model surpassed the performance of our base transformer model. Furthermore, combining the best‐performing transformer model, with a Gaussian Process model resulted in further improvement in performance. The Transformer + Gaussian model achieved an RMSE of 0.0768, compared with 0.0781 for the single transformer model. Similar trends were observed in the Pittsburgh and IHEC data sets.
Species‐specific effects of leaf litter leachate on the aquatic microbial community and the ratio of heterotrophic to autotrophic biomass
Authors: Ho Pei‐Chi , Nakajima Suzuna , Urabe Jotaro
Published: September 2024

Dissolved organic carbon (DOC) released from submerged leaf litter is an important allochthonous carbon source for heterotrophic bacteria that enhances the detrital food chain in freshwater ecosystems. In contrast, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and micronutrients released during the leaching process support primary production and enhance the grazing food chain in these ecosystems.

This study investigated how DOC and dissolved N and P from the leaf litter of two temperate broadleaf and two coniferous tree species affect heterotrophic and autotrophic biomass by incubating the freshwater microbial community in the culture media prepared from the leaf litter leachate.

The results showed that heterotrophic biomass, including bacteria, heterotrophic‐flagellated protists and fungal zoospores, was the highest in the leaf litter leachate, which contained the highest DOC concentration relative to dissolved N and P (Japanese hemlock). In contrast, autotrophic biomass, including small algae, autotrophic flagellated protists and cyanobacteria, was associated with concentrations of dissolved N and P in the leaf litter leachates.

Amendment of basal nutrients other than N and P, including micronutrients, trace elements and vitamins, increased autotrophic biomass in two leaf litter leachates (oak, Siebold's beech), suggesting that some elements other than N and P were deficient relative to the requirements of autotrophic organisms.

These results indicated that the elemental composition of leaf litter leachates influences microbial community structure and heterotrophic versus autotrophic biomass in freshwater ecosystems. More importantly, the present results suggest that changes in forest vegetation surrounding freshwater ecosystems alter detritus‐based heterotrophic production relative to autotrophic production through the changes in the elemental composition (i.e. stoichiometry) of leaf litter inputs.
Effect of standardized hypnotic bundles on insomnia during hospitalization and reducing fall rate: A single‐center retrospective cohort study
Authors: Yoshino Yuta , Fudaka Naoko , Shibasaki Yumiko , Ogawa Miyuki , Watanabe Yoshimasa
Published: September 2024

Aim

Although the use of benzodiazepine receptor agonists is a risk factor for falls and fractures, whether benzodiazepine‐avoiding hypnotic bundles are beneficial in clinical settings remains unclear.

Methods

A new hospital‐wide standardized hypnotic bundle for insomnia, with suvorexant as the first choice, was created for clinical purposes. This single‐center retrospective cohort study involved a pre‐post design and adult inpatients who had had falls. The primary outcome was the total fall rate in the pre‐post groups. Additionally, the level change in the fall‐rate trend for each month at standardization of the new hypnotic bundle was analyzed. The numbers of hypnotic‐related falls and injuries requiring treatment were evaluated.

Results

There were no differences in baseline characteristics between the two groups, except for patients with COVID‐19. Overall, 31 736 patients were included in this study. The total number of falls was 924 (3.42‰) in the pre‐standardization group and 837 (3.31‰) in the post‐standardization group, with no significant difference. An interrupted time‐series analysis of the level change in the fall rate revealed that the gap in trend at standardization was –11%, with no significance. Hypnotic‐related falls were 300 (1.11‰) versus 213 (0.84‰), and the injury incidences were 251 (0.93‰) versus 181 (0.71‰) in the pre and post groups, respectively, showing a significant reduction.

Conclusions

The standardization of the new hypnotic bundle for insomnia did not help achieve a significant reduction in total falls. However, our findings suggest that this bundle has the potential to reduce hypnotic‐related falls and injuries in inpatients who have had falls. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 1144–1149.
Developing a brief older adults' physical activity questionnaire
Authors: Nagai Koutatsu , Matsuzawa Ryota , Sasai Hiroyuki , Tamaki Kayoko , Kusunoki Hiroshi , Wada Yosuke , Tsuji Shotaro , Hashimoto Kana , Mori Takara , Shinmura Ken
Published: September 2024

Aim

This study aimed to develop and evaluate the Brief Older Adults' Physical Activity Questionnaire (BOPAQ), which was designed to quickly assess moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (MVPA) in community‐dwelling older adults.

Methods

We used a cross‐sectional study design involving 165 older participants. The BOPAQ calculated weekly MVPA duration based on two questions regarding the number of days per week engaged in MVPA and the daily duration of activity. Validity was assessed by correlating the MVPA durations derived from the BOPAQ with those obtained from the ActiGraph and International Physical Activity Questionnaire short form. Reliability was evaluated using the intraclass correlation coefficient, and measurement errors were analyzed using Bland–Altman plots.

Results

The BOPAQ reasonably correlated with accelerometer‐based MVPA (rho = 0.297) and showed good test–retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.78, 95% CI 0.64–0.87). In contrast, the correlation between the International Physical Activity Questionnaire short form and accelerometer‐based MVPA was poor (rho = 0.139). The cut‐off value for the BOPAQ was set to identify participants engaging in <150 min of objectively measured physical activity per week, corresponding to the 150‐min threshold. However, the area under the curve in the receiver operating characteristic analyses was not significantly high (0.601, 95% CI 0.514–0.688). The Bland–Altman plots showed an underestimation bias of 51.72 min/week (95% CI 1.61–101.84) and showed heteroscedasticity.

Conclusion

Despite some measurement errors, the BOPAQ is an available tool for assessing MVPA in community‐dwelling older adults. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 1150–1155.
Meta‐analysis of gonadal transcriptome provides novel insights into sex change mechanism across protogynous fishes
Authors: Nozu Ryo , Kadota Mitsutaka , Nakamura Masaru , Kuraku Shigehiro , Bono Hidemasa
Published: September 2024

Protogyny, being capable of changing from female to male during their lifetime, is prevalent in 20 families of teleosts but is believed to have evolved within specific evolutionary lineages. Therefore, shared regulatory factors governing the sex change process are expected to be conserved across protogynous fishes. However, a comprehensive understanding of this mechanism remains elusive. To identify these factors, we conducted a meta‐analysis using gonadal transcriptome data from seven species. We curated data pairs of ovarian tissue and transitional gonad, and employed ratios of expression level as a unified criterion for differential expression, enabling a meta‐analysis across species. Our approach revealed that classical sex change‐related genes exhibited differential expression levels between the ovary and transitional gonads, consistent with previous reports. These results validate our methodology's robustness. Additionally, we identified novel genes not previously linked to gonadal sex change in fish. Notably, changes in the expression levels of acetoacetyl‐CoA synthetase and apolipoprotein Eb, which are involved in cholesterol synthesis and transport, respectively, suggest that the levels of cholesterol, a precursor of steroid hormones crucial for sex change, are decreased upon sex change onset in the gonads. This implies a potential universal influence of cholesterol dynamics on gonadal transformation in protogyny.
Patient reported outcomes and the real‐world use of calcitonin gene–related peptide medications in migraine
Authors: Peasah Samuel K. , Soh Yu Hyeon , Huang Yan , Nguyen Jennifer , Hanmer Janel , Good Chester
Published: September 2024

Objective

To assess patient reported outcomes of patients with migraine receiving preventative medications, and to compare patient reported outcomes and unplanned care of patients on calcitonin gene–related peptide inhibitors (CGRPi) with those on other preventative medications.

Background

Patient reported outcome measures can be useful in conditions such as migraine with frequent disability. CGRPi are newer migraine preventative medications that can improve patients’ quality of life.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort analysis of Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) data combined with administrative claims data from a large regional health plan for adult patients (≥18 years) with migraine who were on preventative medications from January 2019 to March 2022. PROMIS scores of patients on CGRPi were compared to scores of patients who switched from other preventative medications to CGRPi (pre vs. post), between patients adherent to CGRPi versus non‐adherent, and changes in all‐cause/migraine‐related unplanned care (emergency department) use by the CGRPi cohort.

Results

There were 1245 patients on other preventative medications (antiseizure [532/1245 (43%)], antidepressants [316/1245 (25%)], and beta‐blockers [397/1245 (32%)]), 148 who were on CGRPi, and 112 who had switched from other preventative medications to CGRPi. The mean age was 44 years old, 88% were females, 50% were married, and 75% were on commercial insurance. Patients with migraine had higher T‐scores in pain, fatigue, anxiety, and sleep disturbance than the general population. Patients on CGRPi had a statistically significant reduction in pain T‐scores (60.4 [standard deviation (SD) 7.4] to 58.4 [SD 8.2], p = 0.003) post initiation of medications, especially those who switched from other preventative medications to CGRPi (61.4 [SD 6.9] to 58.7 [SD 8.3], p < 0.001). The pain T‐score reduction occurred only among the adherent group. There was a lower proportion of patients with all‐cause unplanned care among patients on CGRPi (43% [64/148] to 32% [47/148], p < 0.001), but the reduction in migraine‐related unplanned care was not statistically significant (9% [14/148] to 6% [9/148], p = 0.197).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that patients had an improvement in pain reduction scores after initiating CGRPi. PROMIS scores could provide important information about quality‐of‐life improvement for prescribers.