bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a social commerce scale: exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis using structural equation modelling
Authors: López-Lemus Jorge Armando
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to propose an instrument for measuring social commerce among entrepreneurs from the USA, Mexico and Colombia.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodological design was quantitative, explanatory, observational and transversal, where a sample of 1,644 entrepreneurs from the USA (n = 525), Mexico (n = 608) and Colombia (n = 510) was obtained. For the validation and reliability of the instruments, a structural equation model (SEM) was developed for the three studies carried out. Regarding the goodness and adjustment indices of the SEM in the three countries, they turned out to be acceptable.

Findings

Through the results obtained in the three studies carried out, it has been verified that the instrument of social commerce in its two factors: Marketing and Market Participation, has sufficient validity and statistical reliability. Likewise, it has been verified that both the manifest variables and the latent variables of the construct show a significant relationship between the three studies carried out in different populations.

Research limitations/implications

The findings obtained in the presented study contribute to entrepreneurs, leaders and managers of the business sector to improve the entrepreneurial project through marketing and market participation of the product and service, as well as the business unit that seeks to position itself in the market. Likewise, it helps entrepreneurs to understand analytically and systematically the constructs that social commerce is made up of, which will help entrepreneurial leaders reduce or control their risk when considering social commerce in their entrepreneurship, achieving the success of the entrepreneurial project through its positioning in the market considering marketing and market participation as main factors of social commerce.

Originality/value

The findings are relevant and of great value to the literature because at present there is not enough research that is focused on the variables analysed related to social commerce in the contexts of the USA, Mexico and Colombia. The relevance of the present scale in comparison to others proposed by the literature is that the proposed scale is focused on entrepreneurs who seek to be more successful through the positioning of their business unit, product or service in the market through the market participation. It is achieved through marketing strategies. Another contribution provided by the present study lies in the methodological robustness of the scale and its analysis, comparing it with studies in three leading entrepreneurship countries in Latin America, comparing the validity and reliability as well as the goodness of fit indices of the proposed model in each of the studies. They were significant and very similar, so the proposed scale is of great value and usefulness in the literature.
Navigating the high school to university transition with social media: intensity of use, sense of belonging, and meaningful change
Authors: Dennen Vanessa P. , Bagdy Lauren M. , Ayan Karabatman Hilal
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the use and perceptions of social media among university students before and during their transition from high school to higher education.

Design/methodology/approach

This exploratory, cross-sectional study uses an online survey of 312 undergraduate students at a large public research university in the USA.

Findings

Active participation was prevalent for connecting with peers, while passive use was high when learning about university-related topics. While at university, social media was most useful for finding campus events and connecting with classmates, but least effective for connecting with instructors. Most participants experienced meaningful change in their social media use from high school to university, which is often attributed to personal growth. Social media intensity correlated weakly but positively with usefulness and sense of belonging.

Research limitations/implications

The study’s sample from a single university limits generalizability. While similar institutions might show comparable results, variations due to student demographics and differing institutional practices could emerge. The retrospective approach for reporting high school behaviors also poses a limitation. Future research could longitudinally follow students from university search to enrollment and attendance.

Practical implications

The study recommends universities adjust social media strategies by prioritizing social content, using student ambassadors and customizing feeds. Universities should support students both online and offline, recognizing diverse pathways to belonging.

Originality/value

This study examines the transition period by asking university students to retrospectively reflect on high school experiences and also report current experiences. It also offers insights into student perceptions of whether their social media use has changed in meaningful ways.
Creating shared value to enhance the competitiveness of the agricultural cluster in Qalqilya governorate
Authors: Awad Ibrahim M. , Thwaib Sahar Mohammad
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study is to provide an empirical investigation of the agricultural cluster’s economic, social and environmental values. By doing so, the authors aim to offer policymakers and decision-makers a strategic approach that promotes competitiveness and economic development through shared value.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used AMOS software and applied structural equation modeling to achieve the study’s objectives. The study used this approach with path analysis through the Analysis of Moment Structures software.

Findings

The empirical results indicate that creating shared value (CSV) can enhance the agricultural sector’s competitiveness through clustering. Rather than enhancing competitiveness directly, CSV plays a crucial role in improving the relationship between clustering and competitiveness. The authors also examined Porter’s diamond of competitiveness and evaluated factors for creating a shared value strategy, such as factor conditions, demand conditions, related and supporting industries, strategy, structure, rivalry and the role of government.

Research limitations/implications

This study focuses solely on the agricultural cluster in Qalqilya governorate and cannot be applied to other regions without additional research.

Practical implications

Ensuring that stakeholders in the agricultural sector are kept informed about the activities of the cluster and the benefits of their participation is crucial. Empirical findings and conclusions have demonstrated that a shared value strategy can enhance the competitiveness of this sector. To achieve this, institutions involved in developing the agricultural cluster must increase their efficiency and capacity. Consulting experts in this field and drawing on experiences from other countries can aid in achieving this goal. Additionally, enhancing farmers’ productivity should be a priority, and the Ministry of Agriculture can provide training and workshops to improve their skills and expertise.

Originality/value

This study suggests that Palestinian policymakers should establish effective partnerships between the government and the agricultural sector’s firms in Qalqilya to reinforce the cluster’s competitiveness. This strategy can stimulate competitiveness and promote economic and social development in Palestine.
Development of ANP-based greenness evaluation model of construction technologies in China
Authors: Li Yan , Tai Shuangliang , Tai Zirui
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Green construction is increasingly vital in promoting sustainability within the construction industry. The development and promotion of green construction technologies are central to this endeavor. However, existing evaluations mainly target building components, construction projects or certain construction processes. There is a notable absence of research into the greenness of construction technologies. Assessing the greenness of construction technologies is crucial for streamlining resource utilization and reducing waste. To address this gap, this study aims to establish a Greenness of Construction Technologies (GCT) evaluation model using the method of analytic network process (ANP).

Design/methodology/approach

Green construction is increasingly vital in promoting sustainability within the construction industry. The development and promotion of green construction technologies are central to this endeavor. However, existing evaluations mainly target building components, construction projects or certain construction processes. There is a notable absence of research into the greenness of construction technologies. Assessing the greenness of construction technologies is crucial for streamlining resource utilization and reducing waste. To address this gap, this study establishes a GCT evaluation model using the method of ANP.

Findings

Among the four formwork technologies of plastic, steel, plywood and wooden formwork, the plastic formwork exhibits the best performance in terms of environmental friendliness, economic and social effects, while facing issues like material wastage and low static strength. The results align with practical observations which validates the model’s applicability.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the field by introducing the concept of greenness into construction technology evaluation for the first time. The establishment of the GCT evaluation model promotes the adoption of green construction technologies and advances sustainable practices in the construction industry.
Religiosity, ethical leadership and local wisdom in moderating the effect of fraud risk management on asset misappropriation: evidence from local government in Indonesia
Authors: Tarjo Tarjo , Anggono Alexander , Alim Mohammad Nizarul , Said Jamaliah , Mohd-Sanusi Zuraidah
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the effects of religiosity, ethical leadership and local wisdom on the relationship between fraud risk management and asset misappropriation in Indonesia.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected using a set of questionnaire surveys administered to the head office, local government internal auditors (inspectorate) and local government employees in Indonesia. Sample selection used purposive techniques and obtained 151 respondents who became research data. The dependent variable was asset misappropriation. The independent variable was fraud risk management. The moderating variables for this study were religiosity, leader ethics and local wisdom. The analysis technique applied the structural equation model-partial least square (SEM-PLS).

Findings

Fraud risk management has a significant negative effect on asset misappropriation. In addition, this study finds evidence that religiosity, ethical leadership and local wisdom increase fraud risk management against asset misappropriation.

Research limitations/implications

This study proposes an integrative model that enables local governments to understand fraud risk management. By integrating religiosity, ethical leadership and local wisdom, managers can design strategies to prevent asset misappropriation.

Originality/value

This research has the advantage of proposing an integrative model for mitigating asset misappropriation. Research on asset misappropriation is limited. Therefore, this study provides insights into fraud risk management, particularly in Indonesia’s local governments. In addition, this study adds ethical aspects such as religiosity, leadership and local wisdom to complement the weaknesses of fraud risk management and reduce the potential for asset misappropriation.
Toward a scale to assess the emotional intelligence and internal marketing of business employees in Portugal
Authors: Serafim Ana , Veloso Cláudia Miranda , Rivera-Navarro Jesús , Sousa Bruno , Valeri Marco
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The aim of this paper is the validation of a scale that has Emotional Intelligence (EI) and Internal Marketing (IM) as determinants of organizational success.

Design/methodology/approach

The survey (questionnaire) allows assessing the contribution of motivation and job satisfaction to organizational success and was disseminated on social networks and directly in some national institutions.

Findings

The results of this research suggest that the 58 items of the scale can be grouped into eight main dimensions and can be confidently applied to professionals from organizations and companies operating in Portugal.

Originality/value

Furthermore, this study can be considered as an innovative, effective and useful tool for entrepreneurs, managers and organizations, as it can help diagnose the perceptions of their employees and promote a healthy and appealing environment, moving towards an excellent organizational performance, greater profitability and corporate sustainability.
Performability analysis for the SPVC line system of leaf spring production plant using probabilistic approach
Authors: Parkash Shanti , Tewari P.C.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This work ensures the higher performability of this complex system, which consists of five different subsystems, i.e. shearing machine, V-cutting machine, center hole punch, edge cutting burr and drilling machine. These subsystems are placed in combinations of both series and parallel arrangement. The concerned plant management must be aware of the failures that have the greatest/least impact on the system’s performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Performability analysis has been done for the Shearing, Punch and V- Cutting (SPVC) line system by using a probabilistic approach (i.e. Markov method). This system was further divided into five subsystems, and single-order differential equations are derived using the transition diagram. MATLAB software was used to determine the performability of the system for various combinations of repair and failure rates.

Findings

In this research work, performability analysis was done using different combinations of repair and failure rates for these subsystems. Further, a decision matrix (DM) has been developed that indicates that edge cutting burr is the most critical subsystem, which requires the top level of maintenance priorities among the various subsystems. This matrix will facilitate policymaking related to various maintenance activities for the respective system.

Originality/value

In this research work, a mathematical modeling based on a single differential equation using a transition diagram has been developed for the SPVC line system. The novelty of this work is to consider interaction among different subsystem, which generates more realistic situation during modeling. The purposed DM helps make future maintenance planning, which reduces maintenance costs and enhances system's performability.
Sustainable symbiosis: navigating green energy purchase intentions and consumer comfort with remotely controlled energy management
Authors: Clark Melissa , Doll Jessica L.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Renewable energy sources and smart devices are options for those wishing to lessen their reliance on fossil fuels. Smart devices in the home also allow energy providers to remotely control energy use (RCEU). However, little is understood about consumer’s perceptions of RCEU programs. Based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB), it is proposed that environmental attitudes, environmental self-identity, green history, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control will predict differences in both purchase intentions and RCEU.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from 692 participants was collected via an online survey of energy consumers. The relationship between study variables was examined using regression analyses.

Findings

The results indicate that environmental attitude, environmental identity, green history and perceived behavioral control are positively related to both purchase intentions and RCEU. The results could have important implications for energy providers, practitioners, energy consumers and citizens interested in environmental issues.

Originality/value

As energy providers consider ways to better manage consumer energy use, RCEU has been used more frequently. However, understanding customer perceptions of RCEU is not well-established in the green energy literature. This paper contributes a first step towards the understanding of RCEU perceptions.
Mechanical characteristics of blended Renova®/polyester microfiber double cloth woven fabrics for active sportswear applications
Authors: Yahia Sarah , Seddik Khaled Mohamed
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to accommodate the mechanical characteristics that comply with the spectra of active sportswear by taking the innovative features of double-layered fabric (double cloth) and polyester yarn. The research focused on blending two types of polyester: Renova® and polyester microfiber with different weave structures in both face and back layers for fabricated fabrics. Force resistance was investigated through several properties, the mass per unit area and thickness properties were also considered.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was divided into two phases. The first phase included three samples with the same double cloth structure and different weft materials to detect the most preferable performance. The second phase included three samples with the same materials and different double cloth structures. Several mechanical properties were tested in accordance with standard test methods, and the results were collected, tabulated and statistically analyzed using a chart line, an ANOVA test with a p-value = 0.05, a calculated least significant difference (value) and a radar chart area.

Findings

The results assigned that blending Renova®/polyester microfiber develops mechanical properties than using them individually, considering the increase in polyester microfiber ratio. The double cloth with different plain structures has a significantly different effect on the examined properties, except for elongation and thickness.

Originality/value

According to the radar chart area, the double cloth with a plain rib structure achieved better performance, and in the same vein, the results showed that the plain with a warp rib structure enhanced fabric behavior more than the weft rib.
Efficiency analysis in knitted fabric portfolio management using DEA
Authors: Benvenuti Eduardo Werner , Bierhalz Andrea Cristiane Krause , Fries Carlos Ernani , Steffens Fernanda
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a decision-making protocol to meet the new requirements in an atypical panorama, such as the economic instability, in the textile industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology consists of analyzing technical criteria, costing parameters and efficiency scores of knitted fabrics using the data envelopment analysis (DEA) and classification and regression (C&R) trees models, together with statistical techniques. From these tools, it is possible to guide the portfolio management of these products in a textile company, identifying those that are inefficient and require immediate management measures. The results are expected to be replicated in other companies because the DEA and C&R trees analytical procedures are applicable to different portfolios, whether in the same industry or not.

Findings

The results allowed identifying inefficient textile products regarding the input-output relationship and the main technical reasons related to the most significant inefficiencies, such as fiber composition and knitted fabrics rapports used in manufacturing.

Originality/value

DEA and C&R trees, in combination with the study of textile technical parameters, can be fundamental to investigating the efficiency and profitability of industries in periods of economic instability or other adverse situations. In addition, it is noteworthy that there are practically no studies in the literature on DEA applied in the textile industry, indicating excellent development potential.
Analyzing transformational role of black women entrepreneurs in Brazilian beauty sector
Authors: Dionisio Marcelo
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the concept of transformational entrepreneurship (TE), which is relevant in emerging economies such as Brazil with its elevated level of unemployment, taxes and interest rates along with elevated levels of institutional voids, and how firms are including purpose as part of their goals and strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on a multiple case study of six Afro-entrepreneurs, participants of a consulting project from Sebrae, the Brazilian Micro and Small Business Support Service, a private entity that promotes the competitiveness and sustainable development of micro and small business enterprises (Sebrae, 2022).

Findings

This work studied the transformational power of entrepreneurship and how six beauty salons led by black women have the ability to not only generate income but also contribute to social and cultural aspects.

Practical implications

This work demonstrates how TE has the potential to improve the lives of a population that has historically been marginalized and faces the lived consequences of socioeconomic discrimination.

Originality/value

This paper provides valuable contributions through a case study of transformational, ethnic and women’s entrepreneurship, not very explored in the literature.
Employee social impact behavior scale: conceptualization, measure development and validation
Authors: Altuniji Afra Saif , Mohd-Shamsudin Faridahwati , Bani-Melhem Shaker , Karrani Mariam
Published: July 2024

Purpose

While existing research in organizational behavior has explored such constructs as perceived social impact and extra-role behaviors, there remains a limited understanding of how employees can make positive changes inside and outside the organization within their professional roles. This study aims to bridge the existing research gap by introducing a novel construct, Employee Social Impact Behavior (ESIB), alongside developing and validating a corresponding scale, the Employee Social Impact Behavior Scale (ESIBS), to measure employees' contributions both within their organizations and toward broader societal welfare.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used Hinkin’s (1998) psychometric methodology to develop and validate the ESIBS. The process encompassed initial item generation, item reduction with reliability estimation, confirmatory factor analysis and convergent and discriminant validity examination. The authors used data from diverse samples to find that the ESIBS had a consistent unidimensional structure.

Findings

The scale exhibits both convergent and discriminant validity, and criterion-related validity is demonstrated through the scale’s relation with related constructs such as perceived social impact and extra-role behaviors. Overall, the ESIB is found to be a reliable and valid measure.

Originality/value

This study unveils a validated ESIB construct, serving both researchers and practitioners to assess impactful employee behaviors within organizations and toward society. This marks a pivotal enhancement in measuring contributions that extend beyond traditional organizational roles to broader societal change.
Exploring corporate environmental responsibility through practitioners’ lens
Authors: Ramya S.M. , Baral Rupashree
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Organizations are partly responsible for the pollution in the world and are expected to contribute towards curbing climate change. Despite the growing importance of the environmental aspect of corporate social responsibility (CSR), i.e. corporate environmental responsibility (CER), current literature focuses more on its antecedents and outcomes rather than drilling deeper into the essential elements of the concept. This has resulted in conceptual confusion as researchers use different aspects to define, understand and measure CER. Hence, this study aims to identify the critical dimensions of CER from a practitioner’s point of view.

Design/methodology/approach

Twenty-eight semi-structured interviews were conducted with senior sustainability professionals across top Bombay Stock Exchange-indexed organizations in India. Manual content analysis and the Gioia method were used to arrive at the findings.

Findings

The critical components of CER are as follows: encompassing environmental responsibility mindset; optimized resource consumption; neutral water, energy and air status; multi-level environmental responsibility approach and targets; compliance, disclosure, reporting and policy formation; and green supply chain.

Originality/value

Our research introduces a comprehensive framework of dimensions to study, measure and represent CER, addressing a critical gap in the current literature. The authors identify and propose novel dimensions, such as the CER mindset and a multi-level approach, which are essential for a holistic understanding of CER. These dimensions, presently absent in academic definitions, render existing research based on those definitions incomplete. Integrating these new dimensions will significantly enhance the rigor and relevance of CER studies, offering a more robust foundation for future research and practical application.
The Dual Risks of Digital Exclusion and Unaffordability of Telecommunications in Lower‐Income Australian Households
Authors: Orzechowska‐Fischer Ewa , Rose Emily , Breunig Robert
Published: July 2024

We analyse household telecommunications spending in Australia over the period 2006–2021 using Household Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) survey data. We find the affordability of telecommunications is improving, and that telecommunications spending behaves like other core necessities, such as food. We find households in which members are not employed, have relatively low education, are elderly, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islanders or immigrants, speak English poorly, reside alone, or have long‐term health conditions are at heightened risk of digital exclusion due to lower spending on telecommunications. Households located in rural areas, with children or with members that work from home are at higher risk of digital exclusion as a consequence of overspending on telecommunications. Overall, the number of people at risk of digital exclusion from inadequate spending or overspending is quite small in Australia. The risks appear to have decreased during COVID‐19. Telecommunications is a core necessity but given the small number of people at risk of exclusion, policies addressing affordability should be highly targeted.
Diverting 911 calls: Lessons from early adopting urban jurisdictions
Authors: Midgette Greg , Reuter Peter
Published: July 2024

Research Summary

Two perceptions drive interest in finding ways of diverting more 911 calls from police to civilian first responders: (1) police responses can result in inadvertent harm to citizens and (2) many calls to which police respond require services that police often cannot provide. Thus, using other personnel may improve police–citizen relations and strengthen crime fighting by reducing extraneous police burden. Using a case study design, we conducted formative evaluations of programs that have developed beyond pilots in three large U.S. cities: Albuquerque, Atlanta, and Houston. In each city, we interviewed officials, program operators, and other stakeholders and reviewed program documents and statistics. We detail the events and forces that led to the establishment of each program, the way in which the programs have been institutionalized, and the way they interact with the police department. We then discuss key lessons learned for these jurisdictions.

Policy Implications

Many U.S. cities are considering diverting some emergency calls for service from police to civilian first responders. This analysis provides evidence to aid policy makers, researchers, and other stakeholders in the development and evaluation of community responder programs. In all respects, we find that cities’ unique experiences inform program design. For example, in Albuquerque, a City Hall‐driven initiative established a new city agency parallel to the police department. In Atlanta, decarceration activists drove the initiative; the program is a city/county‐funded nonprofit, more fragile in its funding. Risk aversion among call takers and dispatchers has led to low call diversion rates across all sites, but training and collaboration have shown promise to resolve this problem. Public safety officials external to the diversion programs commonly expressed concerns about first responder safety and perceptions that police are expected when 911 is called. This risk aversion has led to slower‐than‐expected expansion of the program within each city.
Origin of Felsic Microgranitoid Enclaves in Granite in Zhangjiakou District, China: Implication for Process and Lifespan of Granitic Magma Chambers
Authors: WANG Dazhao , LIU Yuhang , LENG Chengbiao , ZHEN Shimin , LIU Jiajun , ZHA Zhongjian
Published: July 2024

Sparse felsic microgranitoid enclaves (FMEs) in the Shangshuiquan granite of the Zhangjiakou district, the north margin of the North China Craton, are fine‐grained, dark‐colored and exhibit subangular to subspherical shapes. They share similar mineral assemblages, chemical compositions, and zircon Hf isotope compositions to the host granite. New zircon U‐Pb geochronology reveals that the FMEs crystallized at 156–153 Ma, while the Shangshuiquan granite formed at ca. 146 Ma. The FEMs are, therefore, 10 to 7 Ma older than the host granite. Combined with petrological evidence, we suggest that the FMEs are fragments of rapidly crystalized magmas, which were captured by the younger Shangshuiquan magma. Magmas of the FMEs and Shangshuiquan granite originated from the same reservoir. The Shangshuiquan granite is the result of small batches of magma being built up incrementally, and the FMEs belong to the earlier batches of magma. The lifespan of the Shangshuiquan magma reservoir exceeds 10 Ma. FMEs derived from cogenetic fragments have the potential to offer critical information about the formation process and timescale of granitic plutons.
Letter: Reflections on the role of over‐the‐scope clips in high‐risk upper gastrointestinal bleeding—Authors' reply
Authors: Lyu Chengzhen , Yang Daiyu , Xu Hemiao , He Kun , Wang Qiang , Wu Dong
Published: July 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to He et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18093 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18145
Time to first remission and survival in patients with acromegaly: Evidence from the UK Acromegaly Register Study (UKAR)
Authors: Deshmukh Harshal , Ssemmondo Emmanuel , Adeleke Kazeem , Mongolu Shiva , Aye Mo , Orme Steve , Flanagan Daniel , Abraham Prakash , Higham Claire , Sathyapalan Thozhukat ,   UK Acromegaly Register Study (UKAR) Group
Published: July 2024

Objective

This study aimed to understand the effect of time to remission of acromegaly on survival in people living with acromegaly.

Design, Patients and Measurement

This cross‐sectional study used data from the UK Acromegaly Register. We considered remission of acromegaly growth hormone controlled at ≤2 μg/L following the diagnosis of acromegaly. We used the accelerated failure time model to assess the effect of time to remission on survival in acromegaly.

Results

The study population comprises 3569 individuals with acromegaly, with a median age of diagnosis of 47.3 (36.5–57.8) years, 48% females and a majority white population (61%). The number of individuals with the first remission of acromegaly was 2472, and the median time to first remission was 1.92 (0.70–6.58) years. In this study, time to first remission in acromegaly was found to have a significant effect on survival (p < .001); for every 1‐year increase in time to first remission, there was a median 1% reduction in survival in acromegaly. In an analysis adjusted for covariates, the survival rate was 52% higher (p < .001) in those who underwent surgery as compared to those who did not have surgery, 18% higher (p = .01) in those who received treatment with somatostatin analogues (SMA) as compared to those with dopamine agonists and 21% lower (p < .001) in those who received conventional radiotherapy as compared to those who did not receive radiotherapy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this population‐based study conducted in patients with acromegaly revealed that faster remission time, surgical intervention and treatment with SMA are linked to improved survival outcomes.
Effect of one‐time placement of the definitive abutment versus multiple healing abutment disconnections and reconnections during the prosthetic phase on radiographic and clinical outcomes: A 12‐month randomized clinical trial
Authors: Calatrava Javier , Sanz‐Sánchez Ignacio , Molina Ana , Bollain Juan , Martín Conchita , Sanz Mariano
Published: July 2024

Objective

The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the effect on clinical and radiological outcomes of the one‐abutment, one‐time protocol (test) versus placing the definitive abutment on the day of functional loading after having disconnected and connected three times the healing abutment during the prosthetic phase (control).

Materials and methods

Forty patients with 80 implants were randomly allocated to either the test or the control group. Changes in the radiographic marginal bone levels (MBLs), clinical outcomes, prosthetic‐related outcomes, and patient‐reported outcomes measures (PROMs) were assessed and compared 6 and 12 months after functional loading.

Results

Thirty‐seven patients with 74 implants were followed at 12 months. A statistically significant bone remodeling was observed in both groups following implant placement. MBLs were significantly greater in the control group at the 6‐ (−0.13 mm vs. −0.61 mm) and 12‐month visits (−0.01 mm vs. −0.53 mm). Bone loss was significantly greater in the control group from surgery to 6 and 12 months and from loading to 6 and 12 months. The abutment height was significantly greater in the test group, however, there were no significant differences in the restorative angle. Similarly, there were no statistically significant differences between groups for the measured clinical variables (probing depth, plaque, and bleeding index) and PROMs.

Conclusions

Disconnecting and reconnecting the healing abutment was associated with significantly higher bone loss after 12 months, as compared to the placement of the definitive abutment at implant installation.
Compromised cell competition exhausts neural stem cells pool
Authors: Li Chenxiao , Zhang Mengtian , Du Yushan , Liu Shuang , Li Da , Zhang Shukui , Ji Fen , Zhang Jingjing , Jiao Jianwei
Published: July 2024

Blood vessels play a crucial role in maintaining the stem cell niche in both tumours and developing organs. Cell competition is critical for tumour progression. We hypothesise that blood vessels may act as a regulator of this process. As a pioneer, the secretions of blood vessels regulate the intensity of cell competition, which is essential for tumour invasion and developmental organ extension. Brd4 expresses highly in endothelial cells within various tumours and is positively correlated with numerous invasive genes, making it an ideal focal point for further research on the relationship between blood vessels and cell competition. Our results indicated that the absence of endothelial Brd4 led to a reduction in neural stem cell mortality and compromised cell competition. Endothelial Brd4 regulated cell competition was dependent on Testican2. Testican2 was capable of depositing Sparc and acted as a suppressor of Sparc. Compromised cell competition resulted in the depletion of neural stem cells and accelerated brain ageing. Testican2 could rescue the run‐off of neural stem cells and accelerate the turnover rate of neurons. AD patients show compromised cell competition. Through the cloning of a point mutant of Brd4 identified in a subset of AD patients, it was demonstrated that the mutant lacked the ability to promote cell competition. This study suggests a novel approach for treating age‐related diseases by enhancing the intensity of cell competition.
The effect of itraconazole, a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, on the pharmacokinetics of the first‐in‐class ACKR3/CXCR7 antagonist, ACT‐1004‐1239
Authors: Huynh Christine , Dingemanse Jasper , Meyer zu Schwabedissen Henriette E. , Fonseca Marlene , Sidharta Patricia N.
Published: July 2024

Cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A4 is an enzyme involved in the metabolism of many drugs that are currently on the market and is therefore a key player in drug–drug interactions (DDIs). ACT‐1004‐1239 is a potent and selective, first‐in‐class ACKR3/CXRC7 antagonist being developed as a treatment for demyelinating diseases including multiple sclerosis. Based on the human absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) study results, ACT‐1004‐1239 is predominantly metabolized by CYP3A4. This study investigated the effect of the strong CYP3A4 inhibitor, itraconazole, on the pharmacokinetics of single‐dose ACT‐1004‐1239 in healthy male subjects. In the open‐label, fixed‐sequence DDI study, a total of 16 subjects were treated. Each subject received a single dose of 10 mg ACT‐1004‐1239 (Treatment A) in the first period followed by concomitant administration of multiple doses of 200 mg itraconazole and a single dose of 10 mg ACT‐1004‐1239 in the second period. We report a median of difference in tmax (90% confidence interval, CI) of 0.5 h (0.0, 1.0) comparing both treatments. The geometric mean ratio (GMR) (90% CI) of Cmax and AUC0−∞ was 2.16 (1.89, 2.47) and 2.77 (2.55, 3.00), respectively. The GMR (90% CI) of t1/2 was 1.46 (1.26, 1.70). Both treatments were well‐tolerated with an identical incidence in subjects reporting treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAE). The most frequently reported TEAEs were headache and nausea. In conclusion, ACT‐1004‐1239 is classified as a moderately sensitive CYP3A4 substrate (i.e., increase of AUC ≥2‐ to <5‐fold), and this should be considered in further clinical studies if CYP3A4 inhibitors are concomitantly administered.
Association patterns of ketone bodies with the risk of adverse outcomes according to diabetes status
Authors: Li Jiang , Sun Ying , Yu Bowei , Cai Lingli , Shen Wenqi , Wang Bin , Tan Xiao , Guo Yuyu , Wang Ningjian , Lu Yingli
Published: July 2024

Aim

To investigate the associations between ketone bodies (KB) and multiple adverse outcomes including cardiovascular disease (CVD), chronic kidney disease (CKD) and all‐cause mortality according to diabetes status.

Methods

This prospective study included 222 824 participants free from CVD and CKD at baseline from the UK Biobank. Total KB including β‐hydroxybutyrate, acetoacetate and acetone were measured by nuclear magnetic resonance. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the association between KB and adverse outcomes among participants with normoglycaemia, prediabetes and type 2 diabetes, respectively.

Results

During a mean follow‐up of 14.1 years, 24 088 incident CVD events (including 17 303 coronary heart disease events, 5172 stroke events and 5881 heart failure [HF] events), 8605 CKD events and 15 813 deaths, were documented. Higher total KB significantly increased the risk of HF among participants with normoglycaemia (HR, 1.32 [95% CI, 1.17‐1.49], per 10‐fold increase in total KB) and prediabetes (1.35 [1.04‐1.76]), and increased the risk of CKD among those with normoglycaemia (1.20 [1.09‐1.33]). Elevated KB levels were associated with an increased risk of all‐cause mortality across the glycaemic spectrum (1.32 [1.23‐1.42] for normoglycaemia, 1.45 [1.24‐1.71] for prediabetes and 1.47 [1.11‐1.94] for diabetes). Moreover, a significant additive interaction between KB and diabetes status was observed on the risk of death (P = .009), with 4.9% of deaths attributed to the interactive effects.

Conclusions

Our study underscored the variation in association patterns between KB and adverse outcomes according to diabetes status and suggested that KB could interact with diabetes status in an additive manner to increase the risk of mortality.
Type III fetal redundancy of the foramen ovale flap mimics hemodynamic changes of mitral stenosis
Authors: Peng Xiaohui , Zhang Panpan , Pan Mei , Hui Shanshan , Shen Tingting , You Liyi , Zhao Bowen
Published: July 2024

Type III redundancy of the foramen ovale flap (RFOF) mimics hemodynamic changes of mitral stenosis(MS), which has not been particularly highlighted in previous literature but carries a favorable prognosis.
Tracking shifts in forest structural complexity through space and time in human‐modified tropical landscapes
Authors: Rosen Alice , Jörg Fischer Fabian , Coomes David A. , Jackson Toby D. , Asner Gregory P. , Jucker Tommaso
Published: July 2024

Habitat structural complexity is an emergent property of ecosystems that directly shapes their biodiversity, functioning and resilience to disturbance. Yet despite its importance, we continue to lack consensus on how best to define structural complexity, nor do we have a generalised approach to measure habitat complexity across ecosystems. To bridge this gap, here we adapt a geometric framework developed to quantify the surface complexity of coral reefs and apply it to the canopies of tropical rainforests. Using high‐resolution, repeat‐acquisition airborne laser scanning data collected over 450 km2 of human‐modified tropical landscapes in Borneo, we generated 3D canopy height models of forests at varying stages of recovery from logging. We then tested whether the geometric framework of habitat complexity – which characterises 3D surfaces according to their height range, rugosity and fractal dimension – was able to detect how both human and natural disturbances drive variation in canopy structure through space and time across these landscapes. We found that together, these three metrics of surface complexity captured major differences in canopy 3D structure between highly degraded, selectively logged and old‐growth forests. Moreover, the three metrics were able to track distinct temporal patterns of structural recovery following logging and wind disturbance. However, in the process we also uncovered several important conceptual and methodological limitations with the geometric framework of habitat complexity. We found that fractal dimension was highly sensitive to small variations in data inputs and was ecologically counteractive (e.g. higher fractal dimension in oil palm plantations than old‐growth forests), while rugosity and height range were tightly correlated (r = 0.75) due to their strong dependency on maximum tree height. Our results suggest that forest structural complexity cannot be summarised using these three descriptors alone, as they overlook key features of canopy vertical and horizontal structure that arise from the way trees fill 3D space.

Keywords: Forest disturbance, LiDAR, logging, recovery, remote sensing, structural complexity
Elevating Black fathers' experiences in the National Fatherhood Initiative: Strengths and areas for improvement of 24/7 Dad® curriculum and case management services
Authors: Voith Laura A. , Russell Katie N. , Withrow Ashley , Kearney Jennifer , Xia Tian , Coleman Darrell
Published: July 2024

The Healthy Marriage and Responsible Fatherhood grant program is one of the most robust mechanisms supporting fatherhood programming in the United States, with the gold standard of care including fatherhood curriculum (e.g., 24/7 Dad®) and case management services. Despite the fact that fatherhood in the United States is not a monolith and Black fathers make up over 40% of those served through Responsible Fatherhood (RF) program, little research explicitly centers the lived experiences of low‐income Black fathers. The current study used focus groups with fathers (n = 23) and staff (n = 8) enrolled in a RF grantee program. Thematic analysis was used to determine programmatic mechanisms supporting these fathers' success and areas for improvement. Our findings highlight that the creation of a “safe space” by facilitators and the power of the group dynamic were essential elements for fathers' success overall. We also identified numerous programmatic mechanisms supporting Black fathers' success specific to fathering, healthy relationships, and economic stability. Finally, we highlighted important limitations that may impede the success of low‐income, Black fathers related to the 24/7 Dad® curriculum, engagement efforts, and economic stability, and discuss related practice, policy, and research recommendations.
Digitally Mobile Swedes and Their Experiences: A Contribution to the De‐Exceptionalization of Migrants
Authors: Åkesson Lisa
Published: July 2024

This article challenges entrenched notions of otherness, which presuppose that migrants’ experiences always are inherently different from those of other people. By exploring the experiences of white, middle‐class, highly educated Swedes living in Sweden, I highlight some similarities with challenges traditionally attributed solely to migrants. Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork conducted in the Swedish hub of a large international company, the article examines experiences of Swedish employees participating in international digital meetings, a significant aspect of their daily professional lives. It elucidates aspects of their experiences that are often associated with migrants: struggling with language, feeling dominated and unseen and striving to adapt while subtly challenging the dominance of British and American ‘natives’ through practices of boundary maintenance. The article contributes to the de‐exceptionalization of migrants’ experiences without further equating the privileged Swedes’ living conditions with those of people who are migranticized and subjected to enduring othering in their everyday lives.