bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitochondrial-targeted plastoquinone therapy ameliorates early onset muscle weakness that precedes ovarian cancer cachexia in mice
Authors: Delfinis Luca J. , Khajehzadehshoushtar Shahrzad , Flewwelling Luke D. , Andrews Nathaniel J. , Garibotti Madison C. , Gandhi Shivam , Brahmbhatt Aditya N. , Morris Brooke A. , Garlisi Bianca , Lauks Sylvia , Aitken Caroline , Tsitkanou Stavroula , Simpson Jeremy A. , Greene Nicholas P. , Cheng Arthur J. , Petrik Jim , Perry Christopher G.R.
Published: October 2024

Cancer cachexia, and the related loss of muscle and strength, worsens quality of life and lowers overall survival. Recently, a novel ‘pre-atrophy’ muscle weakness was identified during early-stage cancer. While mitochondrial stress responses are associated with early-stage pre-atrophy weakness, a causal relationship has not been established. Using a robust mouse model of metastatic epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC)-induced cachexia, we found the well-established mitochondrial-targeted plastoquinone SkQ1 partially prevents pre-atrophy weakness in the diaphragm. Furthermore, SkQ1 improved force production during atrophy without preventing atrophy itself in the tibialis anterior and diaphragm. EOC reduced flexor digitorum brevis (FDB) force production and myoplasmic free calcium ([Ca2+]i) during contraction in single muscle fibers, both of which were prevented by SkQ1. Remarkably, changes in mitochondrial reactive oxygen species and pyruvate metabolism were heterogeneous across time and between muscle types which highlights a considerable complexity in the relationships between mitochondria and muscle remodeling throughout EOC. These discoveries identify that muscle weakness can occur independent of atrophy throughout EOC in a manner that is linked to improved calcium handling. The findings also demonstrate that mitochondrial-targeted therapies exert a robust effect in preserving muscle force during the early pre-atrophy period and in late-stage EOC once cachexia has become severe.
Robust quantization of circular photogalvanic effect in multiplicative topological semimetals
Authors: Pal Adipta , Varjas Dániel , Cook Ashley M.
Published: October 2024

Nonlinear response signatures are increasingly recognized as useful probes of condensed matter systems, in particular for the characterization of topologically nontrivial states. The circular photogalvanic effect (CPGE) is particularly useful in the study of topological semimetals, as the CPGE tensor quantizes for well-isolated topological degeneracies in strictly linearly dispersing band structures. Here, we study multiplicative Weyl semimetal band structures, and find that the multiplicative structure robustly protects the quantization of the CPGE even in the case of nonlinear dispersion. Computing phase diagrams as a function of Weyl node tilting, we find a variety of quantized values for the CPGE tensor, revealing that the CPGE is also a useful tool in detecting and characterizing the parent topology of multiplicative topological states.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Unveiling the missing innovation – an actor–network theory analysis of regulatory efforts towards universal design
Authors: Grangaard Sidse , Lygum Victoria Linn
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study and analyse challenges in a regulatory innovation process in the field of accessibility and universal design (UD) practice. The study takes its starting point in a Danish regulatory initiative concerning innovation in building regulations. The aim of the initiative was to facilitate a new approach, which acknowledges human diversity to a greater degree than is the case with the traditional accessibility approach that relies on prescriptive requirements.

Design/methodology/approach

The actor–network theory perspective of translation is employed to analyse the process and the complexity of the network of elements involved in the efforts to develop a new approach. The analysis is grounded in a qualitative survey, including semi-structured interviews, with respondents from architectural firms and respondents from local building authorities (municipalities) of their experiences with the building regulations and their way of working with accessibility or UD. The analysis concerned the following questions: 1) Which actors were intended to be enrolled in the network of an initiative about UD innovation? and 2) What factors contributed to the failure of the efforts of the building sector to develop innovative UD solutions?

Findings

The findings show that none of the actors involved succeeded with an innovation solution. Lack of knowledge about UD, accessibility, and the low status of the subject together with tight economy and the anticipation of expensive solutions, prevented the architectural firms and building surveyors from embracing innovative solutions. Based on the findings, the discussions reflect on the implications for the future adoption of UD in future policymaking.

Originality/value

Looking into the complexity of an innovative initiative, this paper contributes to the field of regulation concerning universal design.
Shadows and lights: disabled workers’ use of digital technologies in the workplace
Authors: Hachana Rim
Published: October 2024

Purpose

In this research, we apply a sociological lens to reconstruct the perspectives of disabled workers in their use of digital technologies within the organizational setting. Our study has two objectives. First, we aim to investigate how disabled workers use digital technologies to enact socially valued roles, thereby helping to counteract internalized societal norms through enhancing workplace inclusion. Second, we seek to explain under which conditions disabled workers can better approach the digital imperatives in the workplace.

Design/methodology/approach

This research has a qualitative research design, employing the thematic-content analysis method. We conducted one-to-one interviews with 33 disabled workers in various positions who used a variety of digital technologies in their work.

Findings

Our findings outline how the digital environment in the workplace creates a distinct set of rules and expectations that disabled workers must navigate. These rules reflect the structures and practices inherent in digital technologies (logic of practice), which either empower or constrain disabled workers based on their habitus and the ability to leverage various forms of capital. This study discusses how some disabled workers who have greater access to cultural capital (such as digital skills) are better positioned to navigate the digital environment, whereas those with limited access to such capital face additional challenges. It explained how symbolic violence arises in the experiences of some disabled workers by revealing how the implicit rules of the digital workplace reinforce power dynamics that marginalize them, thereby perpetuating social domination.

Originality/value

In examining the ambivalent role of digital technologies for disabled workers, this research navigates the complex interplay between empowerment and barriers within the digital workplace. Drawing on Bourdieu’s theory of practice, this study explains how the enactment of digital technologies can enhance the sociability and inclusion of disabled workers. Thanks to his concepts of habitus, forms of capital, field, illusion and symbolic violence, we highlight the disruptions that can emerge in reconciling disability with digital requirements. Moreover, the study makes pivotal contributions to the discourse on diversity, inclusion and equality. It underscores the empowerment aspect, wherein digital technologies serve as critical enablers for communication, productivity and independence for disabled workers and critically evaluates the persistent barriers to digital inclusivity.
Education and women in high-skill occupations in India
Authors: Ankita  , Singh Indervir
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to examine women’s likelihood of being employed in a high-skill occupation compared to men in India. It also analyses the impact of education on women’s likelihood of entering a high-skill occupation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses data from Periodic Labour Force Survey 2018–19. National Classification of Occupations 2004 is used to classify the occupations in three categories, i.e. high-skill, medium-skill and low-skill. The paper uses ordered probit with Heckman’s sample selection method to estimate the impact of gender identity and education on women’s likelihood of entering high-skill occupations.

Findings

The results show that female workers are more likely to be employed in high-skill occupations than male workers. Formal years of schooling and technical education further improve women’s probability of working in high-skill occupations compared to men. However, an increase in monthly per capita expenditure of the households improves men’s chances of being employed in high-skill occupations in comparison to women. It suggests that gender norms are still relevant.

Originality/value

Studies have found occupational segregation in India with a large share of women being employed in low-wage work. This study examines the issue by focusing on the skill level of occupations. It found that women have a higher likelihood of entering high-skill occupations in India and education is playing an important role in it.
A swarm model with constraint coordination mechanism for unmanned aerial vehicle swarm formation maintenance in dense environments
Authors: Xiong Hui , Shi Xiuzhi , Liu JinZhen , Chen Yimei , Wang Jiaxing
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The formation of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) swarm plays a critical role in numerous applications, such as unmanned agriculture, environmental monitoring and cooperative fencing. Meanwhile, the self-organized swarm model exhibits excellent performance in amorphous formation flight, and its collective motion pattern displays great potential in dense obstacle avoidance. The paper aims to realize the formation maintenance of UAVs while combining the advantage of the self-organized swarm model in avoiding dense obstacles. Thereby enhancing the flexibility, adaptability and safety of UAV swarms in dense and unpredictable scenarios.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, a self-organized formation (SOF) swarm model with a constrained coordination mechanism is proposed. A global information-based formation rule is designed to flexibly maintain the formation. A constraint coordination mechanism is designed to resolve the problem of constraint conflicts between formation rules and self-organized behavior rules. The model introduces a new obstacle avoidance rule to prevent deadlocks. Extensive experiments including simulations, real flights and comparative experiments are conducted to evaluate the performance of the model.

Findings

The simulation results show that SOF swarm enables the formation elastically to dense obstacles. Compared to the Vasarhelyi model, swarm performance metrics are improved. For example, the task completion time of SOF swarm is reduced by 16%, 28% and 39% across the three obstacle densities, and the order of SOF swarm is improved by 4%, 13% and 18%, respectively. The proposed model is also validated with a swarm of seven quadcopters that can successfully navigate and maintain formation in a real-world indoor environment with dense obstacles. Video at: https://youtu.be/V8hYgOHxWls.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed formation rule is based on global information construction, which presents challenges in terms of communication overhead in distributed systems.

Originality/value

An SOF swarm model is proposed, which achieves formation maintenance by incorporating formation rule and constraint coordination mechanism and improves obstacle avoidance performance by introducing a new obstacle avoidance rule. After real UAVs verification, the model is feasible for practical deployment and provides a new solution to the formation flight and formation maintenance problems encountered in dense environments.
Strategic configurations and strategic management accounting: a longitudinal case study in the credit mediation industry
Authors: Dello Sbarba Andrea
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between strategy, strategic management accounting (SMA) and performance. Specifically, it aims to explore how SMA alignment is achieved to support both the internal and external fit of organizational configurations and achieve superior performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This study has adopted a longitudinal case study approach, focusing on a leading company in the credit mediation industry, and uses the configurational theory and a network approach to understand how an alignment between organizational configurations and SMA leads to superior performance.

Findings

This study shows that the configurational fit involves interactions between environmental, strategic and structural elements and SMA. Moreover, it helps understanding the causal complexity of these interactions by showing how various organizational configurations, along with SMA, may lead to superior performance. Finally, from a longitudinal perspective, the study shows how SMA alignment continuously supports both the external and internal configuration fit.

Research limitations/implications

Case studies often lack generalizability due to their detailed, context-specific nature. In addition, the study assumes that aligning SMA practices with organizational configurations leads to higher performance, although outcomes may be affected by other unobserved factors.

Practical implications

This study also has practical implications for managers, as it provides a profound understanding of the role of SMA in supporting both the external and internal alignment of the organizational configuration. Managers should particularly leverage SMA to gather and analyze external environmental data, thereby enabling the organization to ensure the continuous consistency of its strategic priorities, as well as to support and reinforce both existing and emerging strategic imperatives. However, it is essential for managers to perceive SMA not as an isolated instrument, but as an integral component of the broader organizational system. Effective implementation necessitates the integration of SMA techniques with the strategic and structural elements of the organization, which complement their implementation, determining the actual contribution to external and internal fit.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this study has been one of the first to adopt a qualitative approach to investigate the relationships between strategy, SMA and performance through the lens of the configurational theory. It elucidates the causal mechanisms underlying the relationships between configurations and SMA from a dynamic, change-oriented perspective, showing how SMA continuously contributes to configurational fit and performance.
Effect of working remotely on new professionals’ learning and adjustment during the first five weeks after professional entry
Authors: Karlsson Matilde , Zaar Mårs Olivia , Jenner Bo , Frögéli Elin
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the effect of working remotely on new professionals’ learning and adjustment. Organizational socialization is the process of learning and adjusting to a new professional role. Among new professionals working on-site, this learning and adjustment is indicated by a development of role clarity, task mastery and social acceptance. Less is known about the process when working remotely. This was recognized as a key organizational challenge following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, with a longitudinal design with 242 graduates and weekly data collections for the first five weeks following professional entry in 2021, the authors compared the learning and adjustment among individuals working on-site, in hybrid or remotely using longitudinal analyses of mean response profiles.

Findings

The group-by-time interaction effects were not statistically significant (i.e. no differences were found in the adjustment of the new professionals of the three groups).

Originality/value

These results indicate that working remotely does not jeopardize the organizational socialization process. Furthermore, a marginally statistically significant result indicated that participants working only remotely experienced a greater development of task mastery over time: This suggests that remote work may even benefit learning and professional adjustment. Theoretical and practical implications of the results are discussed.
Repertory Grid Technique and Honey’s Content Analysis: gathering and processing qualitative data
Authors: Bastos Carvalhais Barroso Marina , Martins Ricardo Silveira , Freitas Jonathan Simões
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to demonstrate a rigorous approach to applying the Repertory Grid Technique (RGT) and Honey’s Content Analysis (HCA) to obtain and process qualitative data through structured interviews.

Design/methodology/approach

An illustrative case study using the OpenRepGrid package from the open-source software R facilitates a deeper understanding of these techniques. The study subjects were employees of a corporate charter company.

Findings

The RGT enables the identification of key attributes as perceived by interviewees regarding the phenomenon, whereas HCA clarifies how these attributes impact the desired analysis outcome. The presented case study identified constructs related to the client–supplier relationship and their impact on service performance from the provider’s perspective.

Research limitations/implications

This study illustrates the use of qualitative methods based on an interpretative naturalistic approach to rigorously and systematically capture interviewees’ perspectives.

Practical implications

The combination of RGT and HCA can be a valuable tool for management studies by allowing controlled researcher interference in empirical investigations. In addition, the data-driven selection of constructs by interviewees can lead to the emergence of novel theories.

Social implications

Using diverse methodologies enables researchers to address complex managerial challenges that often surpass the capabilities of conventional analysis methods.

Originality/value

The proposed methodology offers a robust understanding of phenomena from the interviewees’ perspectives. Consequently, this study highlights the potential of these techniques for theoretical and empirical research in the field of administration.
Research on safety control technology of high-speed railway combined test based on threatening event analysis
Authors: Bai Xin , Chen Jiaxu
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Safety management is a key point and poses a challenge in joint testing. To detect and address potential accidents' hidden dangers early, this paper conducts research on the safety control technology for high-speed railway joint tests by incorporating the concept of hazardous events.

Design/methodology/approach

Aiming at ensuring the safety of high-speed railway combined inspections and trials, this paper starts from the dual prevention mechanism. It introduces the concept of threatening events, defines them and analyzes the differences between threatening events and railway accidents. The paper also proposes a cause model for threatening events in high-speed railway combined inspections and trials, based on three types of hazard sources. Furthermore, it conducts research on the control strategies for these threatening events.

Findings

The research on safety control technology for high-speed railway combined operation and testing, based on the analysis of threatened events, offers a new perspective for safety management in these operations. It also provides theoretical and practical support for the transition from passive prevention to active risk pre-control, which holds significant theoretical and practical value.

Originality/value

The innovation mainly includes the following three aspects: (1) Building on the traditional dual prevention mechanism, which includes risk hierarchical management and control as well as hidden danger investigation and management, a triple prevention mechanism is proposed. This new mechanism adds the management of threatening events as the third line of defense. The aim is to more comprehensively identify and address potential security risks, thereby enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of security management. (2) In this paper, the definition of a railway threatening event is clarified, and the causative model of a high-speed railway threatening event based on three kinds of danger sources is proposed. (3) This paper puts forward the control strategy of the high-speed railway combined operation and trial, which includes five key links: identification, reporting, analysis, rectification and feedback, which provides a new perspective for the safety management of the high-speed railway combined operation and trial and has important theoretical and application value.
Barriers to the deployment of PSS for a circular economy in housing: an institutional theory perspective
Authors: Ghafoor Soheila , Kocaturk Tuba , Hosseini M. Reza , Weiss Matthias
Published: October 2024

Purpose

There is an urgent call for transitioning towards a circular economy (CE) in housing. Pivotal to this transition is implementing business models aligned with CE principles, such as the ones informed by the product-service system (PSS). However, incorporating the PSS into housing to realize a CE faces significant challenges within an industry characterized by systemic rigidity and institutional inertia. This study investigates the barriers faced in deploying the PSS and its CE potential in housing.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted 15 semi-structured interviews with stakeholders experienced in the deployment of PSS and CE in housing projects. Analysis used deductive coding, guided by institutional theory’s regulative, normative and cultural-cognitive pillars, followed by inductive coding development.

Findings

Twelve key barriers emerged across three pillars, underlying the significance of not only regulative but also normative and cultural-cognitive barriers. The findings indicate that the current institutional environment impedes the establishment of legitimacy for the deployment of PSS and its CE potential in housing.

Practical implications

Following the findings, a diversified institutional support system enabled by the collaborative effort of the government, managing and financing actors and industry associations is required to overcome deployment barriers.

Originality/value

This study advances knowledge at the intersection of housing and circular business model innovation. It connects theory to practice by applying institutional theory to real-world barriers in deploying the PSS for a CE in housing and lays the groundwork for practical changes.
The credentialism trap: are IT certifications overrated?
Authors: Szandała Tomasz
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore whether certifications are sufficient for comprehensively evaluating the IT sector, focusing on DevOps, as this branch has the widest range of certifications. It examines the limitations of relying solely on certifications and highlights the gap between certified knowledge and practical competence in real-world settings.

Design/methodology/approach

The study includes a survey of 72 certified DevOps professionals with varying years of experience to gather insights on the impact of certifications. It also reviews existing literature on the origins, psychological aspects and role of certifications in recruitment within the IT sector.

Findings

The findings indicate that while certifications enhance technical knowledge and boost confidence among IT professionals, they do not consistently lead to career advancements and sometimes do not adequately assess practical skills and soft skills essential for DevOps roles. The survey revealed that only a minority experienced promotions postcertification, highlighting a disconnect between certifications and career progression.

Research limitations/implications

The survey sample was limited to 72 respondents, which may not represent the entire DevOps community. Future research with a more extensive and diverse sample could provide more generalisable results and deeper insights into the impact of certifications across different contexts.

Practical implications

Organisations should consider certifications as one component of a candidate’s qualifications, alongside practical experience and soft skills. Professionals are encouraged to pursue certifications for skill validation and knowledge enhancement but should integrate them with practical application and continuous learning to ensure effectiveness in DevOps environments.

Social implications

An overemphasis on certifications can contribute to a “credentialist” culture, potentially undervaluing practical skills and leading to stress and burnout among professionals. A balanced approach that values both certified knowledge and experiential learning can promote a healthier professional environment and improve team collaboration.

Originality/value

This paper provides a nuanced examination of the role of certifications in evaluating DevOps skills by combining survey data with a literature review. It offers original insights into the limitations of certifications and emphasises the importance of balancing them with practical experience and soft skills in the IT industry.
From mass marketing to personalized digital marketing in tourism: a 2050 horizon paper
Authors: Kozak Metin , Correia Antonia
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The academic background of tourism marketing dates back to the 1960s. There had been a slight increase in its capacity until the early 1990s. However, since then, it has boomed, reaching thousands of scientific journal articles and tens of scientific books published only in English each year. Therefore, this study aims to present how tourism marketing has progressed academically within the past 60 years over four waves and how this progress may move forward as the next wave.

Design/methodology/approach

A bibliometric analysis grounds this study, which characterizes the past and present of tourism marketing research and anticipates the future. Content analysis, such as word clouds and social network analysis, was adopted to identify topic clusters and their connections. A total of 9,239 articles published between 1969 and 2024 were extracted from Scopus. Software packages such as VOSviewer were used to determine connections within topics.

Findings

The authors have assessed the findings broadly. Four waves were from the late 1960s to the first quarter of 2000. In spite of the limited size of papers at the early stage, the last wave saw a boom and a diversified number and category of subjects studied. In each wave, new subjects were added to broaden the picture.

Research limitations/implications

The discussion of findings is based only on those scientific papers published in English since 1969 but excludes the whole list of textbooks. Subsequent research should also consider all papers and textbooks released in different languages to have the broadest picture assessment worldwide.

Practical implications

The study conveys various suggestions for industry practitioners and policymakers to focus on carefully assessing trends in marketing tourism services and how these may be shaped shortly. This may help practitioners and policymakers redesign their services and marketing strategies in light of future developments.

Originality/value

This study continues a recent study published by Kozak (2023) that has been elaborated, particularly from the industry perspective. The current study examines the academic profile of all subjects investigated in the case of tourism marketing, but mainly in an academic sense. Accordingly, this paper outlines the facts and trends researchers may follow throughout the research frame published in the past six decades.
STRUGGLING FOR URBAN SPACE: Examining Social Distinctions between Long‐Term Residents and Newcomers in Warsaw's Districts
Authors: Orchowska Justyna
Published: October 2024

This article examines the perspectives of long‐term residents in response to the influx of newcomers in two neighbourhoods in Warsaw, Poland. It addresses the crucial, yet understudied, impact of spatial changes on the local population and the diverse ways in which residents negotiate this changing urban context. Drawing on Pierre Bourdieu's theoretical framework and its subsequent reinterpretations in the field of urban studies, the article explores the extent to which the narratives constructed by the long‐standing residents refer to categories of social class and correspond to their class position. The central question is whether spatial changes lead them to ‘internalize their inferiority’ (Savage, 2008: 161), or if they possess resources that can be mobilized to navigate conflicts arising from urban transitions. Through individual and group interviews with residents from two districts in Warsaw, this research sheds light on how the symbolic divisions between ‘us’ (long‐term residents) and ‘them’ (newcomers) are framed. It demonstrates how nativity is transformed into capital, providing the possibility for symbolic dominance. Consequently, it not only enriches understanding of the social distinctions that are made within evolving cities but also underscores the ongoing relevance of Bourdieu's theoretical framework for the study of urban space.
Sustainable development goals in emerging markets: Aligning the role of financial inclusion in promoting environmental quality of the Next‐11 economies
Authors: Usman Mahjabeen , Chughtai Sumayya , Khan Nasir
Published: October 2024

Pursuing sustainable development has emerged as a paramount global objective, with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) serving as a guiding framework. Increasing environmental degradation is associated with increased greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, industrial waste, fossil fuel depletion, and loss of biodiversity. This study has analyzed the effect of financial inclusion on ecological sustainability while controlling the effect of financial development, energy consumption, economic growth, urbanization, and trade openness in the Next‐11 economies from 1995 to 2019. The study develops the financial inclusion index through principal components analysis by inculcating three demand‐side and three supply‐side factors of financial inclusion. To analyze the developed model, various first‐generation and second‐generation techniques are applied. The results of Westerlund co‐integration reveal significant long‐run co‐integration among the series. The long‐run elasticities are estimated through dynamic common correlated effect estimation and generalized method of moments where results reveal that FI helps to secure environmental sustainability by reducing the ecological footprint, hence it works on the SDG framework. Economic growth and financial development are found to be the root causes of increasing ecological footprint. So, it is the penetration of excessive credit, not the financial inclusivity which needs to be directed toward sustainability. It is suggested that the governments of Next‐11 countries should steer the capital toward sustainable usage and should continue facilitating financial services to curtail environmental degradation. Our findings have significant repercussions for Next‐11 countries, giving decision makers fresh perceptions of financial inclusion and development implications.
The effect of blended tube feeding compared to conventional formula on clinical outcomes in adults: A systematic review
Authors: Breik Lina , Barker Lisa , Bauer Judy , Davidson Zoe E.
Published: October 2024

Aim

To explore the effect of blended tube feeding compared to conventional formulas on nutritional status, quality of life, anthropometry, diarrhoea and tube blockages in adults receiving tube feeding.

Methods

The protocol was registered (PROSPERO CRD42022372443). Five databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Scopus, CENTRAL) were searched from commencement of database to 14th June 2023 to identify studies comparing blended tube feeding to conventional formulas in adults receiving tube feeding. Certainty assessment was conducted using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tools and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations framework, and a narrative synthesis of results is provided.

Results

From 4227 studies screened, eight were included (total n = 763 patients, 9–215 patients). Three studies were hospital‐based and five were home‐based with duration from 8 days–8 months. Blended tube feeding and conventional formulas were nutritionally equivalent in only three studies; energy and protein concentration of formulas ranged from 1.7–7.1 kJ/mL and 21–68.5 g/L for the blended tube feeding groups, and 4.2–6.7 kJ/mL and 39–100 g/L for the conventional groups. No studies assessed nutrition status or quality of life using validated measures. Blended tube feeding was associated with a clinically relevant reduction in diarrhoea with a low level of certainty. For remaining outcomes, there were inconclusive findings and an overall very low certainty of evidence for each.

Conclusion

The effect of blended tube feeding compared to conventional formulas on all outcomes remains uncertain. Blended tube feeding may reduce the incidence of diarrhoea. Future research using nutritionally equivalent comparisons and validated outcome measures is required.
Clan culture and digital transformation: Evidence from Chinese family firms
Authors: Liu Yadan , Zhang Shaowei , Chen Fengwen , Mu Yikang
Published: October 2024

This paper examines the impact of culture norms on the digital transformation of Chinese listed family firms. We show that clan culture is negatively associated with firms' digital transformation degree. Exploring possible mechanisms through the logic of restricted socioemotional wealth theory, we find that clan culture inhibits digital transformation by increasing firms' risk aversion to restricted SEW loss. Further, the negative impact is stronger when the family exhibits a higher tendency to avoid such risk, and will ultimately harm firm future performance and value. The results indicate that external informal institution is an important antecedent of firms' disruptive innovation strategy.
Carbon emissions and CEO pay
Authors: Amin Abu , Hossain Ashrafee , Ranasinghe Tharindra
Published: October 2024

Our study examines the link between firms' carbon emissions and their compensation to CEOs and finds a positive association in line with the compensating wage differentials theory. We use Donald Trump's 2016 election win as an exogenous shock to identify a causal relationship. Ruling out managerial power as an alternative explanation, the relations are stronger when firms are better governed and are more likely to be aware of their carbon risk. Additionally, we present evidence that high carbon emissions increase CEOs' risk of job loss, reinforcing the presence of compensating wage differentials as the plausible explanation for the positive association.
Magnetocardiography in the Evaluation of Sudden Cardiac Death Risk: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lachlan Thomas , He Hejie , Kusano Kengo , Aiba Takeshi , Brisinda Donatella , Fenici Riccardo , Osman Faizel
Published: October 2024

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is responsible for 15%–20% of deaths globally/year, predominantly due to ventricular arrhythmias (VA) caused by vulnerable cardiac substrate. Identifying those at risk has proved difficult with several limitations of current methods. We evaluated the evidence for magnetocardiography (MCG) in predicting SCD events. We searched Embase/Medline databases for English language papers evaluating MCG in patients at risk of VA. A total of 119 papers were screened with 27 papers included for analysis (23 case–controlled, four cohort studies); study sizes varied (n = 12 to 158). Etiology was ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) in 22, dilated cardiomyopathy in 2, arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy in 1 and mixed in 2. In patients with ICM there were consistent discriminatory features seen using time‐based and signal‐complexity measures that persisted when evaluating the independence of these parameters. Current flow analysis demonstrated promising discriminatory results in other etiologies. The features studied support the role of MCG in identifying substrate for VA, particularly in ICM.
Potential benefits of aortic valve opening in patients with left ventricular assist devices
Authors: Romero Dorta Elena , Meyn Robert , Müller Markus , Hoermandinger Christoph , Schoenrath Felix , Falk Volkmar , Meyer Alexander , Merke Nicolas , Potapov Evgenij , Mulzer Johanna , Knierim Jan
Published: October 2024

Background

Aortic regurgitation (AR) is a well‐known cause of impaired outcome in patients with centrifugal left ventricular assist devices (cfLVADs). The failure of the aortic valve (AV) to open at least intermittently is associated with cusp remodeling, commissural fusion, and ultimately developing AR.

Our aim was to characterize patients in whom AV opening (AVO) was preserved 6 months after implantation and identify determinants related to it.

Methods and Results

We conducted standardized echocardiography and collected clinical and laboratory tests at the outpatient clinic 6 months after implantation. We classified patients into those showing intermittently opening of the AV, every 2–3 beats, or in every cycle (AVO) and those whose AV was continuously closed (NAVO). From the 219 cfLVAD implanted in our center between March 2018 and January 2020, 156 subjects were alive and on the device after 6 months. In 2 of the reviewed echocardiograms, we could not evaluate the AV. 99 patients (64%) showed AVO compared to 55 (36%) with NAVO. The first presented higher mean arterial pressure (84 ± 10 vs. 77 ± 13 mm Hg, p = 0.002), larger LV end‐diastolic diameter (LVEDD 57.5 ± 12 vs. 52.7 ± 13 mm, p = 0.022), a better TAPSE (15 ± 4 vs. 13 ± 4 mm, p = 0.028), and less frequently significant AR than patients with NAVO (moderate/severe AR in 6% vs. in 20%, p = 0.042). In a multiple logistic regression, a lower NYHA Class, a larger LVEDD, and a better LV ejection fraction appeared as significant predictors of AVO. After a median follow‐up of 3.2 years, we found no significant impact on survival stratifying patients by AVO (log‐rank p = 0.53).

Conclusion

AVO was associated with better RV function, lower NYHA Class, and a lower rate of significant AR. This could indicate that AVO should be pursued in LVAD patients.
Perceived economic inequality inhibits pro‐environmental engagement
Authors: Huo Rongmian , Yang Shasha , Dong Cai , Chen Sijing
Published: October 2024

We currently inhabit an era marked by increasing economic inequality. This paper delves into the repercussions of perceived economic inequality on individual‐level pro‐environmental engagement and puts forth an explanatory mechanism. Across three empirical studies encompassing an archival investigation employing a nationally representative data set (Study 1), an online survey (Study 2) and an in‐lab experiment (Study 3), we consistently unearth the inhibiting effect of perceived economic inequality on individuals' pro‐environmental involvement, whether assessed through pro‐environmental intentions or behaviours. Furthermore, our findings reveal that individuals' identification with their country elucidates these results. Specifically, perceived economic inequality diminishes individuals' national identification, encompassing their concern for the country's well‐being and their sense of shared destiny with fellow citizens, thereby curbing their pro‐environmental engagement. Additionally, we conduct a single‐paper meta‐analysis (Study 4), revealing small to moderate effect sizes for our key findings. Theoretical and practical implications stemming from these novel findings are discussed.
Evaluation of the Choroid Plexus Epithelium Inflammation TLR4/NF‐κB/NKCC1 Signal Pathway Activation in the Development of Hydrocephalus
Authors: Xu Hao , He Jiawei , Du Hua , Jing Xiaolei , Liu Xinfeng
Published: October 2024

Background

Hydrocephalus is characterized by secretion, circulation, and absorption disorder of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) with high morbidity and complication rate. The relationship between inflammation and abnormal secretion of CSF by choroid plexus epithelium (CPE) had received more attention. In this study, we aim to detect the role of Toll‐like receptor 4/nuclear factor‐kappa B/Na+/K+/2Cl‐cotransporter 1(TLR4/NF‐κB/NKCC1) signal pathway in the development of hydrocephalus.

Method

Hydrocephalus was induced in adult rats (8 weeks) by intracisternal kaolin injection, then pyrrolidinedithiocarbamate (PDTC) and bumetanide were administrated to the rats mode. Then the rat model was evaluated, and ventricular volume was calculated at different time points. Then CPE, cortex, preventricular tissue, and CSF were obtained. Protein expressions of TLR‐4, NKCC/serine–threonine STE20/SPS1‐related, proline‐alanine‐rich kinase (SPAK), pNKCC1, pSPAK, GFAP, AQP1, and AQP4 were measured by RT‐PCR, western blot, and immunofluorescence (IF) stains in CPE, respectively.

Result

Our data showed that inflammation factors tumor necrosis factor‐(TNF‐α), interleukin 18(IL‐18), and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) concentrations were significantly higher in the model group than in controls. The TLR4/NF‐κB/NKCC1 signal pathway were actived by NF‐κB‐p65, NKCC1, pNKCC1‐ pSPAK complex, and Aquaporin1 (AQP1) high expression. PDTC and bumetanide use can help regular TLR4/NF‐κB/NKCC1 expression and reduced AQP1 expression by down‐regulate NF‐B‐p65 and inhibiting NKCC1, respectively. As a result, the treatment groups alleviated CPE abnormal secretion and ventricle enlargement.

Conclusion

These results confirmed that the inflammatory reaction contributes TLR4/NF‐κB/NKCC1 mediated CPE abnormal secretion and consequent hydrocephalus. Regulation of TLR4/NF‐κB/NKCC1 and AQP1 can prevent this process. Our study provides a strong rationale for further exploring alleviating CPE abnormal secretion as a therapeutic perspective of hydrocephalus.
Politics of local fiscal discipline with vertical fiscal imbalance
Authors: Obeng Samuel K. , Aazam Layal
Published: October 2024

We examine the political conditions mediating the effect of vertical fiscal imbalance (VFI) on local government fiscal discipline in Ghana. Based on a panel dataset of 216 local governments in Ghana over the period 1994–2018, we adopt both a static and dynamic approach, in addition to a regression discontinuity design. From the results, while alignment may give “free pass,” local governments could leverage same for effective tax efforts. Further, the benefits of lower political competition may reduce where local governments place reliance on central government grants. There is consistent evidence of a negative effect of VFI on fiscal discipline.
Call for Your Life: Acoustic Structure and Age‐Sex Differences in Distress Calls of Red‐Necked Nightjars
Authors: Sierro Javier , Gil Diego , Sáez‐Gómez Pedro , Hidalgo‐Rodríguez Paula , Rabadán‐González Julio , Camacho Carlos
Published: October 2024

Predatory interactions result in strong selection pressures acting on multiple aspects of animal behaviour. Anti‐predator strategies are therefore common in most animals, typically signalling at various stages of a predation event. Many species of caprimulgids perform conspicuous anti‐predator displays, including stereotyped behaviours and vocal signals. Here, we described distress calls of red‐necked nightjars (Caprimulgus ruficollis), produced when birds are trapped and unable to escape during a predatory interaction. Distress calls are harsh, low‐frequency guttural vocalisations with irregular amplitude modulations. The age and sex of birds partially explained the acoustic variation observed, whereas size‐related morphological features were poor predictors of the acoustic structure. Age‐sex differences in distress calls may respond to physiological constraints associated with sexual dimorphism and/or developmental variation. Alternatively, directional selection associated with differential predation risk on each age‐sex class may have resulted in the observed differences in distress calls. The extremely deep voice and the harsh quality of distress calls fit the structure of aggressive signals and may resemble those produced by a larger animal. We propose that these calls serve as a last resort strategy to reduce post‐encounter risk of predation, either as a startling effect to facilitate escape or to attract other predators that could intimidate the captor.
The Relevance of Flash Coloration Against Avian Predation in a Morpho Butterfly: A Field Experiment in a Tropical Rainforest
Authors: Vieira‐Silva Aline , Evora Gabriel B. , Freitas André V. L. , Oliveira Paulo S.
Published: October 2024

The flash coloration hypothesis postulates that otherwise cryptically colored animals suddenly displaying conspicuous colors during movement confuse predators, reducing capture. Morpho helenor butterflies have contrasting colors on dorsal (iridescent blue) and ventral (brown) wing surfaces, resulting in sequential blue “flashes” during flight. We tested whether this flashing pattern reduces avian predation on M. helenor in Atlantic rainforest by changing the flashing effect in three experiments. In Experiment 1, we added a blue band to the ventral wing. In Experiment 2, we covered the dorsal wing's blue band with a brown band. Control groups in each experiment were painted such that wing color patterns remained unaltered. Survivorship was evaluated through mark‐recapture censuses and beak marks on the wings. Results show that survivorship of treated butterflies in Experiment 1 decrease markedly compared to unaltered control individuals, while survivorship of treated butterflies in Experiment 2 did not differ compared to control individuals. In Experiment 3, we detected scant predation on treated (blue band added to ventral wing) and control butterflies (brown band added to ventral wing) on the forest floor (wings closed), corroborating that flash coloration is an important protective mechanism during flight. Our field experiments provide the first evidence, to our knowledge, that flash coloration in bright blue Morpho butterflies is an effective defense mechanism against avian predators in a tropical rainforest.
Estimating the Importance of Viral Contributions to Soil Carbon Dynamics
Authors: Zimmerman Amy E. , Graham Emily B. , McDermott Jason , Hofmockel Kirsten S.
Published: October 2024

Biogeochemical models for predicting carbon dynamics increasingly include microbial processes, reflecting the importance of microorganisms in regulating the movement of carbon between soils and the atmosphere. Soil viruses can redirect carbon among various chemical pools, indicating a need for quantification and development soil carbon models that explicitly represent viral dynamics. In this opinion, we derive a global estimate of carbon potentially released from microbial biomass by viral infections in soils and synthesize a quantitative soil carbon budget from existing literature that explicitly includes viral impacts. We then adapt known mechanisms by which viruses influence carbon cycles in marine ecosystems into a soil‐explicit framework. Finally, we explore the diversity of virus–host interactions during infection and conceptualize how infection mode may impact soil carbon fate. Our synthesis highlights key knowledge gaps hindering the incorporation of viruses into soil carbon cycling research and generates specific hypotheses to test in the pursuit of better quantifying microbial dynamics that explain ecosystem‐scale carbon fluxes. The importance of identifying critical drivers behind soil carbon dynamics, including these elusive but likely pervasive viral mechanisms of carbon redistribution, becomes more pressing with climate change.