bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validating the rapid validity testing concept across regions
Authors: Peña Häufler Birgit , Globocnik Dietfried , Salomo Søren , Landaeta Saldías Paola
Published: April 2024

Empirical studies in innovation management often draw on data collected in particular regions, mostly in Western economies, and imply universal applicability of the findings across regions. Given the relevance of innovation for economic progress and structural and cultural differences among regions, there is surprisingly little knowledge available on whether the knowledge developed from Western firms can be transferred to emerging economies. This dearth of knowledge is especially notable for the early phases of innovation processes. Rapid iterations between knowledge creation and learning are critical at the front end of innovation (FEI), a phase that, in turn, is crucial for innovation success. In a recently published article, Peña Häufler and co‐authors developed the concept of rapid validity testing (RVT) and found support for its positive relation with innovation performance. Since the authors draw on a sample of Western firms, we explore whether the concept of RVT and its performance relevance remain valid across regional contexts. The data for this study stem from a sample of 1625 respondents from 232 firms in Europe and Latin America. Our findings advance our understanding of innovation management practices in different contexts, informing future research on the approach and relevance of assessing the effect of different contexts on central measures for improving innovative capabilities.
The implementation of bottom‐up innovation in a formalized context: A resource‐mobilization perspective
Authors: Renkema Maarten , Bos‐Nehles Anna
Published: April 2024

Although work‐floor employees are important sources of creative ideas, having creative ideas is not enough to implement bottom‐up innovations. This is particularly evident in formalized contexts. Research shows that innovations require the provision of resources because they are crucial for each phase of the innovation process, from the generation of ideas to their implementation. Nevertheless, a better understanding is needed of how these resources are acquired and used by work‐floor employees to pursue their innovative ideas. Therefore, in this study, we adopt a resource‐mobilization perspective and examine the types of resources and resource access mechanisms that are needed in a bottom‐up innovation process. Adopting an exploratory case study based on 43 interviews and document analysis, we show that specific actions are deployed as resource access mechanisms to acquire five types of resources in the bottom‐up innovation process. Different resources are important in the three phases, and the mechanisms by which these resources are acquired play a key role in explaining the effect of these resources. In sum, our research adds to the understanding of the actions and factors that shape bottom‐up innovation endeavours.
What Is Vulnerability? Quebec Community Family Workers' Perceptions of Family Situations in Cases of Child Neglect
Authors: De Boer Savannah , Lacharité Carl , Dubois‐Comtois Karine
Published: April 2024

Although vulnerability is a somewhat nebulous concept, the term is widely used in child protection, and child protection workers often refer to vulnerability when describing the situations of families they work with. Because perceiving families as vulnerable or as living in vulnerable conditions may impact interventions, it is important to know what child protection workers mean when they talk about vulnerability. To this end, we explored community family workers' conceptions of the vulnerability of families involved with Quebec's child protection system for reasons of child neglect. Thematic analyses of semistructured interviews with nine community family workers revealed two main components to their conceptions of vulnerability: (1) a distinction between vulnerability, viewed as an intrinsic characteristic of all human beings, and (2) a heightened vulnerability caused by the cumulative effect of lacking resources in several domains. We discuss the impact of these conceptions of vulnerability on community family workers' perceptions of families and of the child protection system.
Impact of the new rectal cancer definition on multimodality treatment and interhospital variability: Results from a nationwide cross‐sectional study
Authors: Hazen Sanne‐Marije J. A. , Sluckin Tania C. , Horsthuis Karin , Lambregts Doenja M. J. , Beets‐Tan Regina G. H. , Hompes Roel , Buffart Tineke E. , Marijnen Corrie A. M. , Tanis Pieter J. , Kusters Miranda ,   the Dutch Snapshot Research Group
Published: April 2024

Aim

This study aimed to determine the consequences of the new definition of rectal cancer for decision‐making in multidisciplinary team meetings (MDT). The new definition of rectal cancer, the lower border of the tumour is located below the sigmoid take‐off (STO), was implemented in the Dutch guideline in 2019 after an international Delphi consensus meeting to reduce interhospital variations.

Method

All patients with rectal cancer according to the local MDT, who underwent resection in 2016 in the Netherlands were eligible for this nationwide collaborative cross‐sectional study. MRI‐images were rereviewed, and the tumours were classified as above or on/below the STO.

Results

This study registered 3107 of the eligible 3178 patients (98%), of which 2784 patients had an evaluable MRI. In 314 patients, the tumour was located above the STO (11%), with interhospital variation between 0% and 36%. Based on TN‐stage, 175 reclassified patients with colon cancer (6%) would have received different treatment (e.g., omitting neoadjuvant radiotherapy, candidate for adjuvant chemotherapy). Tumour location above the STO was independently associated with lower risk of 4‐year locoregional recurrence (HR 0.529; p = 0.030) and higher 4‐year overall survival (HR 0.732; p = 0.037) compared to location under the STO.

Conclusion

By using the STO, 11% of the prior MDT‐based diagnosis of rectal cancer were redefined as sigmoid cancer, with potential implications for multimodality treatment and prognostic value. Given the substantial interhospital variation in proportion of redefined cancers, the use of the STO will contribute to standardisation and comparability of outcomes in both daily practice and trial settings.
A comparative research on knitted fabrics washed with eco‐friendly detergent for different washing cycles
Authors: Sülar Vildan , Kartal Gülşah Ekin , Sezgin Şahin Gözde
Published: April 2024

The laundering process stands as the most commonly employed method for the maintenance of textile products. This investigation focused on boron, a pivotal mineral resource for our nation, and aims to elucidate alterations in fabric properties, specifically about colour changes and pilling, after the utilisation of various washing detergents. Comparative analyses and assessments were conducted across three distinct washing cycles, employing three distinct detergents: a boron‐infused washing detergent, a standard detergent conventionally utilised in textile trials, and a widely adopted commercial detergent. The investigation encompassed three diverse fabric constituents—cotton, polyester, and viscose—subjected to scrutiny in terms of fabric parameters subsequent to 1, 5, and 25 washing cycles. Following the laundering processes conducted at 40°C, evaluations were conducted concerning the pilling degree and colour alteration of the fabrics. Consumer perception regarding colour alterations, and subjective colour assessments was undertaken with a panel of 10 individuals. Furthermore, the research delved into the stain removal efficacy of the boron‐infused washing detergent. To assess stain removal, all fabrics were intentionally stained with six diverse contaminants: ketchup, mayonnaise, coffee, sweetened coffee, tea, and sweetened tea. A post‐washing evaluation of stain conditions was carried out subjectively by an assembled arbitration committee. Over the course of 25 washing cycles, it was observed that the boron‐containing detergent notably diminished colour strength, particularly evident in polyester and cotton fabrics. Pilling outcomes indicated a decrease in pilling as the number of washing cycles increased. Boron‐containing detergent, denoted as detergent B, consistently demonstrated commendable stain removal properties, particularly on cotton fabric.
Once‐weekly insulin efsitora alfa: Design and rationale for the QWINT phase 3 clinical development programme
Authors: Bergenstal Richard M. , Philis‐Tsimikas Athena , Wysham Carol , Carr Molly C. , Bue‐Valleskey Juliana M. , Botros Fady T. , Blevins Thomas , Rosenstock Julio
Published: April 2024

Aims

Insulin efsitora alfa (efsitora) is a once‐weekly basal insulin. This review describes the study design and rationale of the efsitora phase 3 Once Weekly (QW) Insulin Therapy (QWINT) clinical development programme, including the five trials, QWINT‐1 through QWINT‐5.

Materials and Methods

The five trials included insulin‐naïve adults (QWINT‐1 and ‐2) with type 2 diabetes (T2D), adults with T2D previously treated with basal insulin (QWINT‐3 and ‐4), and QWINT‐5 in adults with type 1 diabetes. All five trials were designed as multicentre, randomized, controlled, open‐label, treat‐to‐target studies to investigate the efficacy and safety of efsitora versus active once‐daily basal insulin comparators (insulin glargine U100 or insulin degludec U100). The primary objective of each trial is to compare the change in HbA1c from baseline to week 26 or 52 between efsitora and the active comparator. The key secondary objectives include change in fasting glucose, insulin dose and continuous glucose monitoring variables, and patient‐reported outcome questionnaires.

Conclusions

The QWINT development programme includes a racially and geographically diverse population to provide important information regarding the efficacy and safety of efsitora and its clinical management of people with diabetes.
Real‐world effectiveness of sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 inhibitors on the progression of chronic kidney disease in patients without diabetes, with and without albuminuria
Authors: Nakhleh Afif , Abdul‐Ghani Muhammad , Gazit Sivan , Gross Adi , Livnat Idit , Greenbloom Maya , Yarden Adva , Khazim Khaled , Shehadeh Naim , Melzer Cohen Cheli
Published: April 2024

Aim

To examine the renal effects of sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 (SGLT2) inhibition among non‐diabetic individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) in a real‐world setting.

Methods

We collected de‐identified data on adults without diabetes and with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of 25–60 mL/min/1.73 m2, who initiated the SGLT2 inhibitors dapagliflozin or empagliflozin between September 2020 and November 2022 at Maccabi Healthcare Services, an Israeli health maintenance organization. We assessed the effects of SGLT2 inhibitors on renal function (changes in eGFR slope/time). Index date was defined as the date of the first dispensing of SGLT2 inhibitors. Annual baseline slope was calculated using all eGFR measurements during the 2 years prior to index date (median = 7 measurements), while annual follow‐up slope was calculated from all evaluations during 90–900 days post index date, along with baseline measurement at index date (median = 6 measurements). Paired t tests were used to compare differences between baseline and follow‐up annual slopes.

Results

Of a total of 354 participants with CKD, without diabetes, who received SGLT2 inhibitors and were followed for a median of 527 days, the mean age was 72.8 ± 11.8 years, 26% were female, and 91% used renin‐angiotensin system blockade. The mean eGFR was 45.4 ± 9.5 mL/min/1.73 m2. The mean body mass index was 29.1 ± 5.4 kg/m2. During the year before index date, 146 participants (41%) had a urinary albumin to creatinine ratio (UACR) <30 mg/g, 81 (23%) had a UACR of 30–300 mg/g, 74 (21%) had a UACR >300 mg/g, and 53 (15%) had no UACR evaluation. The mean eGFR slope over time was −5.6 ± 7.7 mL/min/1.73 m2 per year at baseline, which improved to −1.7 ± 6.8 mL/min/1.73 m2 per year after SGLT2 inhibitor administration (p <0.001). This effect was independent of UACR.

Conclusion

In a real‐world study of primarily older non‐diabetic adults with CKD, SGLT2 inhibition was associated with a slower rate of kidney function decline, regardless of baseline UACR level.
Host–pathogen interaction between the African fig fly, Zaprionus indianus, and its external mycobiome under laboratory conditions
Authors: Sharma Aanchal , Ramniwas Seema , Kumar Girish , Raj Khem
Published: April 2024

The African fig fly, Zaprionus indianus Gupta (Diptera: Drosophilidae), is an ecologically diverse pest species that interacts with and feeds on various microbial pathogens including bacteria and yeast found in decomposing fruits. However, the interaction of Z. indianus with its microbial community and microbial pathogens is obscure. To determine the presence of fungal pathogens, we collected wild Z. indianus from the northwestern part of the Indian subcontinent. Based on molecular identification and phylogenetic analysis, Debaryomyces hansenii (Zopf) Lodder & Kreger‐van Rij (isolate ziha1) was the most commonly observed fungus associated with Z. indianus. Furthermore, we identified two more opportunistic fungal pathogens: Aspergillus flavus Link (isolate zias2), and Pichia kudriavzevii Boidin, Pignal & Besson (isolate zibd3). The interaction of isolated fungi with Z. indianus was evaluated in terms of larval mortality, adult emergence, and fecundity. Debaryomyces hansenii ziha1 resulted in 90% emergence rate for adults, and did not cause significant mortality in the larval stage. In contrast, A. flavus zias2 and P. kudriavzevii zibd3 showed a significant reduction in fecundity and caused 99% and 74% larval mortality of Z. indianus, respectively. In the laboratory oviposition preference assay, mated females of Z. indianus preferred D. hansenii ziha1 supplemented food with a positive oviposition index compared to the uninfected control and compared to food infected with P. kudriavzevii zibd3 or A. flavus zias2. These findings underscore Z. indianus' potential to act as a reservoir for both symbiotic and pathogenic fungal species, some of which may be further harnessed for effective fruit fly pest control strategies.
Examining the mediating role of teacher professional learning between perceived instructional leadership and teacher instructional practices
Authors: Dorukbaşi Erdal , Cansoy Ramazan
Published: April 2024

Instructional leadership has begun to be examined as an essential factor in school development research. It has received considerable attention, especially in developing countries, in recent years. This study examined the relationship between school principals' instructional leadership and teacher instructional practices and the mediating role of teacher professional learning. A cross‐sectional survey design was adopted in the study, and the participants were 385 elementary and middle school teachers working in a city in western Türkiye. The data were analysed through structural equation modelling. Findings demonstrated that instructional leadership significantly predicted teacher instructional practices and teacher professional learning. Findings also highlighted teacher professional learning as a significant mediator between instructional leadership and teacher instructional practices. This study confirmed that instructional leadership can strengthen teacher instructional practice and professional learning in a centralized education system.
Does corporate social responsibility relate to corporate social irresponsibility? Toward an integrative framework for future research
Authors: Nguyen Thi Minh Ngoc , Brion Sébastien , Chauvet Vincent
Published: April 2024

Business research shows the growing interest in corporate social responsibility (CSR) and, more recently, in its counterpart, corporate social irresponsibility (CSI). Yet existing literature on how these two concepts relate to each other is fragmented and sometimes contradictory, leaving an unanswered fundamental question about their dynamic relationship. We narrow this gap by systematically synthesizing and narratively analyzing 34 relevant studies. We uncover three core mechanisms underlying the connection between CSR and CSI: insurance, penance, and trade‐off. Our integrative framework on these mechanisms can benefit future studies on this emerging research topic.
Evaluation of bond strength between zirconia milled ceramic material and veneered dental porcelain
Authors: Dimitriadis Konstantinos , Tulyaganov Dilshat U , Agathopoulos Simeon
Published: April 2024

This study aimed at examining the bond strength between zirconia and ceramic veneer, following the ISO 9693 guidelines. A total of fifty specimens of zirconia/ceramic‐veneer system were produced using two commercial zirconias (VITA YZ‐HTWhite and Zolid HT+ White, referred to as Group A and Group B, respectively) and a ceramic‐veneering material (Zirkonia 750). The microstructure (via x‐ray diffraction analysis, XRD and Secondary Electron mode, SEM) and the mechanical properties (via 3‐point bending tests) of the two groups were assessed. Then, experiments were conducted according to the ISO 9693 and conventional protocols applied for producing zirconia/ceramic‐veneer restorations. Bond strength values, measured by 3‐point bending tests, were 34.42 ± 7.60 MPa for Group A and 31.92 ± 6.95 MPa for Group B. SEM observations of the cohesively fractured surfaces (on the porcelain side) and the examination for normality using the Shapiro–Wilk test suggested the use of Weibull statistical analysis. Median strength (σ50%) for Group A and Group B was 34.76 and 32.22 MPa, while the characteristic strength (σ63.2%) was 35.78 and 33.14 MPa, respectively. The Weibull modulus disparity between groups (12.69 and 13.07) was not significant. Bond strength exceeded the ISO 9693 minimum of 20 MPa, suggesting satisfactory strength for clinical use.
Effects of past riverine connectivity on the population structure and species distribution of ‘Geophagus’ brasiliensis (Cichlidae) complex in a Neotropical hotspot
Authors: Argolo Leandro Araujo , Campos Ivan Pedro Azevedo , López‐Fernández Hernán , Batalha‐Filho Henrique , Affonso Paulo Roberto Antunes de Mello
Published: April 2024

Once fishes and rivers are intrinsically connected, historical events such as river captures and the reconfiguration of palaeodrainages affect population structure and species distribution. However, direct evidence of these events remains limited.

We aimed to directly infer putative connections between adjacent river basins to understand genetic and geographical patterns in populations and species of the ‘Geophagus’ brasiliensis complex. For that, we analysed 174 sequences of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) from five species along 35 sites within and near a coastal basin in northeastern Brazil. Based on haplotype network, palaeodrainage reconstruction, geological inferences of river captures and analyses of molecular variance (AMOVAs), we tested how the genetic structure could be associated with variable patterns of habitat connectivity through time.

In general, high levels of genetic variation were identified, including shared haplotypes among drainages for most species. AMOVA suggested that drainage rearrangements between adjacent basins were the main drivers of genetic diversification in the ‘G.’ brasiliensis complex.

Our study refuted dispersal routes via the continental shelf, whereas eight putative river captures suggested historical connections that enabled gene flow among drainages until recent interruption. These results provide novel insights on the role of riverscape evolution on the biogeography of neotropical ichthyofauna.
Are higher protein intake and distribution of protein intake related to higher appendicular muscle mass among an older Japanese population?: A cross‐sectional analysis of the National Health and Nutrition Survey 2017
Authors: Ishikawa‐Takata Kazuko , Matsumoto Mai , Takimoto Hidemi
Published: April 2024

Aim

Protein intake is an important component in retaining muscle mass, especially among older people. This study examined the relationship between total protein intake and/or the distribution of protein intake in each meal and appendicular muscle mass, using data from the National Health and Nutrition Survey (NHNS) in Japan.

Methods

Data from the NHNS were re‐analyzed in this study. We used data from a one‐day dietary record, physical examination, and lifestyle questionnaire completed by 1766 participants aged over 60 years. Appendicular muscle mass was assessed by multiple‐frequency bioimpedance measurement. Leucine intake was calculated by the weighted average amino acid content from all 98 food subcategories used in the NHNS, based on amino acid composition data in the 2020 Standard Tables of Food Composition.

Results

Participants with higher protein intake showed significantly higher appendicular muscle mass. This relationship was independent of physical activity, including steps taken per day, exercise habit, and physical labor. Frequent intake of ≥0.4 g protein/kg/meal was not related to appendicular muscle mass. The combination of higher total protein intake and higher physical activity seemed to have the largest association with appendicular muscle mass.

Conclusions

Higher protein intake may be related to higher appendicular muscle mass, independent of higher physical activity, among older Japanese people. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 634–640.
Dynamic changes in the gut microbiota after bismuth quadruple therapy and high‐dose dual therapy for Helicobacter pylori eradication
Authors: Chen Jing , Zhang Yan , Min Hanchen , Zhi Junli , Ma Shuyun , Dong Hongxia , Yan Jingshuang , Chi Xiaoyan , Zhang Xiaomei , Yang Yunsheng
Published: April 2024

Background

A novel regimen with high‐dose dual therapy (HDDT) has emerged, but its impact on the gut microbiota is not well understood. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of HDDT on the gut microbiota and compare it with that of bismuth quadruple therapy (BQT).

Methods

We enrolled outpatients (18–70 years) diagnosed with Helicobacter pylori infection by either histology or a positive 13C‐urea breath test (13C‐UBT) and randomly assigned to either the BQT or HDDT group. Subjects consented to provide fecal samples which were collected at baseline, Week 2, and Week 14. Amplification of the V1 and V9 regions of the 16S rRNA was conducted followed by high‐throughput sequencing.

Results

Ultimately, 78 patients (41 patients in the HDDT group and 37 in the BQT group) were enrolled in this study. Eradication therapy significantly altered the diversity of the gut microbiota. However, the alpha diversity rebounded only in the HDDT group at 12 weeks post‐eradication. Immediately following eradication, the predominance of Proteobacteria, replacing commensal Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes, did not recover after 12 weeks. Species‐level analysis showed that the relative abundances of Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia fergusonii significantly increased in both groups at Week 2. Enterococcus faecium and Enterococcus faecalis significantly increased in the BQT group, with no significant difference observed in the HDDT group. After 12 weeks of treatment, the relative abundance of more species in the HDDT group returned to baseline levels.

Conclusion

Eradication of H. pylori can lead to an imbalance in gut microbiota. Compared to BQT, the HDDT is a regimen with milder impact on gut microbiota.
Nutritional counseling improves mortality and prevents hepatic encephalopathy in patients with alcohol‐associated liver disease
Authors: Hanai Tatsunori , Nishimura Kayoko , Unome Shinji , Miwa Takao , Nakahata Yuki , Imai Kenji , Suetsugu Atsushi , Takai Koji , Shimizu Masahito
Published: April 2024

Aim

Nutritional counseling improves malnutrition, which determines the prognosis of patients with chronic liver disease. In this study, we investigated the effects of nutritional counseling on mortality and the risk of overt hepatic encephalopathy (HE) in patients with alcohol‐associated liver disease.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, we included 211 patients with alcohol‐associated liver disease who visited Gifu University Hospital between August 2008 and June 2023. Patients were classified into two groups according to the frequency of nutritional counseling by a registered dietitian. The primary outcomes were all‐cause mortality and overt HE. Propensity score matching analysis was performed to adjust for potential confounders.

Results

Among the patients (median age 67 years; 88% men; and median Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease score, 9), 86 (39%) were in the high‐frequency (≥2) nutritional counseling group. The high‐frequency group had a significantly higher survival rate (46% vs. 25%) and a lower incidence of overt HE (16% vs. 27%) at 5 years than the low‐frequency group. Nutritional counseling was associated with a reduced risk of mortality (hazard ratio [HR] 0.48; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.36–0.63) and overt HE (HR 0.64; 95% CI 0.42–0.99), independent of hepatocellular carcinoma and liver function reserve. After propensity score matching, nutritional counseling was still associated with a reduced risk of mortality (HR 0.34; 95% CI 0.19–0.59) and overt HE (HR 0.31; 95% CI 0.11–0.87).

Conclusions

Nutritional counseling effectively improves mortality and prevents overt HE in patients with alcohol‐associated liver disease, thereby proving essential for the management of these patients.
Seeding policy: Viral cash and the diverse trajectories of basic income in the United States
Authors: Doussard Marc
Published: April 2024

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, cities in the United States of America developed more that 100 basic income pilots. This article examines the heretofore hidden impact of the pandemic on the future extension of basic income programmes at the sub‐national level. While the super‐majoritarian requirements of United States federal policy making keep the possibility of national‐level basic income remote, several features of basic income, including unconditional cash transfers and broad programme eligibility, have emerged as viable tools in state and local policy. Drawing on an inventory of basic income pilots and interviews with policy entrepreneurs, this article defines and then examines the phenomenon of “viral cash” and assesses the probability that the wave of basic income pilots will continue to grow after the pandemic. Conventional approaches to evaluating the diffusion of policies across jurisdictions focus squarely on policy. Appraising viral cash’s future requires a shift to following the advocacy networks who move, adapt and combine basic income with other programmes.
Flash in the pan or eureka moment? What can be learned from Australia's natural experiment with basic income during COVID‐19
Authors: Henderson Troy , Spies‐Butcher Ben , Klein Elise
Published: April 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic led to widespread social and economic policy experimentation as governments sought to protect household finances while locking down economies. Cash transfers emerged as one of the most popular policy measures, leading many to reflect on new possibilities for enacting universal basic income through temporary or emergency interventions. We take Australia’s pandemic response, and particularly its Coronavirus Supplement, as an example of this broader experimentation. We analyse the Supplement through the lens of an emergency basic income, arguing the measure reflected existing institutional structures and norms, forms of national and international policy learning, and vulnerabilities in Australia’s liberalized housing and labour markets. While temporary, we consider how its apparent success might suggest ongoing policy relevance, either as a form of capitalist “crisis management” or as an alternative pathway for implementing forms of basic income.
The role of an emergency basic income: Lessons from the Latin American experience to confront the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Robles Claudia , Atuesta Bernardo , Garcia Raquel Santos
Published: April 2024

The article provides a brief overview of the social impacts of the COVID‐19 crisis in Latin America and the Caribbean, presenting how these are intertwined with a structural deficit of social protection systems. It also describes the main features of the emergency social protection responses adopted by Latin American countries that are relevant to the ongoing debate on an emergency basic income. Finally, it discusses the role, implications, and challenges in implementing an emergency basic income as a sustainable entitlement, embedded in the social protection system, to be activated in times of crisis.
Assessment of the ability of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus to create biofilms during wound healing in a rat model treated with carboxymethyl cellulose/carboxymethyl chitosan hydrogel containing EDTA
Authors: Kolarijani Nariman Rezaie , Mirzaii Mehdi , Zamani Sepehr , Maghsoodifar Hasan , Naeiji Mahdi , Douki Seyed Amir Hossein Sadeghi , Salehi Majid , Fazli Mozhgan
Published: April 2024

The primary objective of this study was to develop a carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and carboxymethyl chitosan (CMCS) hydrogel containing ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid (EDTA) as the materials for wound healing. CMC and CMCS solutions were prepared with a concentration of 4% (w/v). These solutions were made using normal saline serum with a concentration of 0.5% (v/v). Additionally, EDTA with the concentrations of 0.01%, 0.05%, 0.1%, 0.5%, 1%, and 2% (w/v) was included in the prepared polymer solution. The analysis of the hydrogels revealed that they possess porous structures with interconnected pores, with average in size 88.71 ± 5.93 μm. The hydrogels exhibited a swelling capacity of up to 60% of their initial weight within 24 h, as indicated by the weight loss and swelling measurements. The antibacterial experiments showed that the formulated CMC/CMCS/EDTA 0.5% hydrogel inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Moreover, the produced hydrogels were haemocompatible and biocompatible. At the last stage, the evaluation of wound healing in the animal model demonstrated that the use of the produced hydrogels significantly improved the process of wound healing. Finally, the findings substantiated the effectiveness of the formulated hydrogels as the materials for promoting wound healing and antibacterial agents.
The Minors Strike: Reflections on the Limits and Legitimacy of Children's Political Action
Authors: Fowler Tim
Published: April 2024

This article considers the morality of children's activism, in particular via participation in political protests. In Section 3 of the article I consider whether children can be competent to engage in activism. I argue that even if we believe children are not competent to vote it will still be true that many children are indeed competent to engage in activism. In Section 4 I consider the wellbeing effects of activism on children. I argue that political activity stands in tension with achieving the intrinsic goods of childhood, meaning there is an important sense in which activism is bad for children. However, I show that these negative outcomes flow from being made aware of the injustices in society, and that for politicised children activism is often highly beneficial.
Ecological versus biogeographical regionalization: Colliding or colluding?
Authors: Mucina Ladislav
Published: April 2024

This perspective addresses the nature of the past and current relationships between the ecological and biogeographical regionalization of plants and plant communities. It uses four examples (two related to continental scale and two related to regional/local scale) to document the cases of cross‐pollination between both approaches in the past and the need for concerted use of both ecological and distributional data in formulating robust regional spatial classification systems of biotic assemblages.
Associations between brachial‐ankle pulse wave velocity and hypertensive retinopathy in treated hypertensive adults: Results from the China Stroke Primary Prevention Trial (CSPPT)
Authors: Meng Ying , Liu Lishun , Chen Xuling , Zhao Liang , She Haicheng , Zhang Wenbo , Zhang Jing , Qin Xianhui , Li Jianping , Xu Xiping , Wang Binyan , Hou Fanfan , Tang Genfu , Liao Rongfeng , Huo Yong , Li Jun , Yang Liu
Published: April 2024

Although the association between persistent hypertension and the compromise of both micro‐ and macro‐circulatory functions is well recognized, a significant gap in quantitative investigations exploring the interplay between microvascular and macrovascular injuries still exists. In this study, the authors looked into the relationship between brachial‐ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) and hypertensive retinopathy in treated hypertensive adults. The authors conducted a cross‐sectional study of treated hypertensive patients with the last follow‐up data from the China Stoke Primary Prevention Trial (CSPPT) in 2013. With the use of PWV/ABI instruments, baPWV was automatically measured. The Keith‐Wagener‐Barker classification was used to determine the diagnosis of hypertensive retinopathy. The odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for the connection between baPWV and hypertensive retinopathy were determined using multivariable logistic regression models. The OR curves were created using a multivariable‐adjusted restricted cubic spline model to investigate any potential non‐linear dose‐response relationships between baPWV and hypertensive retinopathy. A total of 8514 (75.5%) of 11,279 participants were diagnosed with hypertensive retinopathy. The prevalence of hypertensive retinopathy increased from the bottom quartile of baPWV to the top quartile: quartile 1: 70.7%, quartile 2: 76.1%, quartile 3: 76.7%, quartile 4: 78.4%. After adjusting for potential confounders, baPWV was positively associated with hypertensive retinopathy (OR = 1.05, 95% CI, 1.03–1.07, p < .001). Compared to those in the lowest baPWV quartile, those in the highest baPWV quartile had an odds ratio for hypertensive retinopathy of 1.61 (OR = 1.61, 95% CI: 1.37–1.89, p < .001). Two‐piece‐wise logistic regression model demonstrated a nonlinear relationship between baPWV and hypertensive retinopathy with an inflection point of 17.1 m/s above which the effect was saturated
.
The optimal dosage of aspirin for preventing preeclampsia in high‐risk pregnant women: A network meta‐analysis of 23 randomized controlled trials
Authors: Hu Xuemei , Chen Dexin , Wang Hong , Lv Yinfeng , Wang Yulong , Gao Xuelin , Li Shuwen , He Rongxia
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness and optimal dosage of aspirin in preventing preeclampsia in high‐risk pregnant women. Traditional and network meta‐analyses were conducted on data from 23 randomized controlled trials involving 10 547 pregnant women. The findings demonstrated that aspirin significantly reduced the incidence of preeclampsia (OR = 0.66, 95%CI [0.58, 0.75]), with the best preventive effect observed at a dosage of 80–100 mg/day (OR = 0.51, 95%CI [0.36, 0.72]). No significant differences were found in the occurrence of postpartum hemorrhage (OR = 1.03, 95%CI [0.79, 1.33]), small for gestational age (OR = 0.83, 95%CI [0.50, 1.35]), placental abruption (OR = 0.96, 95%CI [0.53, 1.73]), and intrauterine growth restriction (OR = 0.63, 95%CI [0.45, 1.86]) between women taking aspirin and those taking placebos. Different doses of aspirin showed a reduction in preeclampsia incidence, but there was no significant difference in efficacy between the dosage groups. Side effects did not significantly differ between placebo and different aspirin dosage groups. SUCRA analysis suggested that 80–100 mg/day may be the optimal dosage, prioritizing both effectiveness and minimizing side effects. Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the findings. However, improvements are needed in addressing issues like loss to follow‐up, reporting bias, and publication bias. In conclusion, a dosage of 80–100 mg/day is recommended for preventing preeclampsia in high‐risk pregnant women, although individual circumstances should be considered for optimizing the balance between effectiveness and safety.
Melatonin suppresses TLR4‐mediated RSV infection in the central nervous cells by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome formation and autophagy
Authors: Huang Yixuan , Jiang Chengcheng , Liu Xiaojie , Tang Wei , Gui Hongya , Sun Tao , Xu Doudou , He Maozhang , Han Maozhen , Qiu Huan , Chen Mingwei , Huang Shenghai
Published: April 2024

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infects neuronal cells in the central nervous system (CNS), resulting in neurological symptoms. In the present study, we intended to explore the mechanism of RSV infection‐induced neuroinflammatory injury from the perspective of the immune response and sought to identify effective protective measures against the injury. The findings showed that toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) was activated after RSV infection in human neuronal SY5Y cells. Furthermore, TLR4 activation induced autophagy and apoptosis in neuronal cells, promoted the formation of the NOD‐like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, and increased the secretion of downstream inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), interleukin‐18 (IL‐18) and tumour necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α). Interestingly, blockade of TLR4 or treatment with exogenous melatonin significantly suppressed TLR4 activation as well as TLR4‐mediated apoptosis, autophagy and immune responses. Therefore, we infer that melatonin may act on the TLR4 to ameliorate RSV‐induced neuronal injury, which provides a new therapeutic target for RSV infection.
Unraveling the spawning and reproductive patterns of tomato hind grouper, Cephalopholis sonnerati (Valenciennes, 1828) from south Kerala waters
Authors: Mohan Ponni J. , Anil M. K. , Gopalakrishnan A. , Joseph Shoji , Pillai Devika , Mariyam Fazula A. , Praveen Prasannan P.
Published: April 2024

The objective of this study is to provide information on the reproductive biology of tomato hind grouper, Cephalopholis sonnerati (Valenciennes, 1828) for conservation and management purposes. Fish caught by artisanal fishermen from September 2019 to August 2021 were analysed. A total of 280 females, 31 males, and 4 transitional and 178 sex‐undetermined fish were analysed. The female to male sex proportion was 9:1, and the fish reached a maximum total body length of 38.5 and 54.5 cm for females and males, respectively. The following microscopic stages were identified: immature, developing, ripe, running ripe/releasing, and spent in both males and females. Several asynchronous development patterns were observed in the studied gonads, including multiple oocyte stages and early and advanced stages of sexual transition. High gonadosomatic index (GSI) for both males and females was recorded in March, May, and November. Running ripe and releasing stages in females were identified in the months from March to June, which indicates the spawning season. The absolute and relative fecundity of the species ranged from 162,723 ± 207,267 and 239 ± 285, respectively. An exponential relationship was found between fecundity and total body length (TL), fecundity and total body weight (TW), and fecundity and gonad weight (GW).
Innovating in a bioimaging core through instrument development
Authors: Munck Sebastian , De Bo Christof , Cawthorne Christopher , Colombelli Julien
Published: April 2024

Developing devices and instrumentation in a bioimaging core facility is an important part of the innovation mandate inherent in the core facility model but is a complex area due to the required skills and investments, and the impossibility of a universally applicable model. Here, we seek to define technological innovation in microscopy and situate it within the wider core facility innovation portfolio, highlighting how strategic development can accelerate access to innovative imaging modalities and increase service range, and thus maintain the cutting edge needed for sustainability. We consider technology development from the perspective of core facility staff and their stakeholders as well as their research environment and aim to present a practical guide to the ‘Why, When, and How’ of developing and integrating innovative technology in the core facility portfolio.

Core facilities need to innovate to stay up to date. However, how to carry out the innovation is not very obvious. One area of innovation in imaging core facilities is the building of optical setups. However, the creation of optical setups requires specific skill sets, time, and investments. Consequently, the topic of whether a core facility should develop optical devices is discussed as controversial. Here, we provide resources that should help get into this topic, and we discuss different options when and how it makes sense to build optical devices in core facilities. We discuss various aspects, including consequences for staff and the relation of the core to the institute, and also broaden the scope toward other areas of innovation.
Land, natural resources and the social reproduction of South Africa's ‘relative surplus population’
Authors: Yeni Sithandiwe
Published: April 2024

In the past few decades, there has been a renewed interest by feminist scholars in social reproduction. Global South scholars have argued that in agrarian societies of the global South that are marked by a high prevalence of surplus population, social reproduction is largely the responsibility of households, facilitated through unpaid gendered labour that is mostly performed by women. In this article, I draw from the Mhlopheni case of former labour tenants who were evicted and later re‐claimed their land in South Africa to demonstrate the centrality of land in social reproduction. I argue that three processes are important and aid social reproduction: (i) land redistribution to the dispossessed, (ii) socially embedded tenure arrangements and (iii) unpaid gendered labour within households which is largely performed by women. These three processes reinforce each other. It is not just land that is crucial for social reproduction, but how that land is used, controlled, accessed and held, and the gendered labour required to turn resources into consumable goods that enable people to live. To support my argument, I draw on empirical evidence collected between 2020 and 2022 where I conducted 56 in‐depth interviews, four focus group discussions and a survey of 32 households.
Trauma‐informed lawyering in the context of civil claims for sexual violence
Authors: GODDEN‐RASUL NIKKI , WIPER CLARE
Published: April 2024

Over the last decade, there has been an increase in civil compensation claims for sexual violence in the United Kingdom (UK). Given that trauma‐informed approaches have been called for in relation to legal responses to sexual violence, we put forward seven key principles of trauma‐informed lawyering in this context and draw on interviews with UK‐based civil lawyers who represented sexual violence survivors to explore the extent to which trauma‐informed work is taking place. While we found that our sample of lawyers typically had a very good knowledge of sexual violence and the trauma that it can cause, there was less certainty about how to accommodate the impacts in practice. Moreover, there was a tendency to prioritize individual healing and medicalize a form of social injustice. We conclude by emphasizing the need for legal training and education on a trauma‐informed approach that accounts for the social and political dimensions of sexual violence and trauma.
The impact of COVID‐19 on the peer relationships of adolescents around the world: A rapid systematic review
Authors: Magis‐Weinberg Lucía , Arreola Vargas Marissa , Carrizales Alexia , Trinh Calvin Thanh , Muñoz Lopez Daniela E. , Hussong Andrea M. , Lansford Jennifer E.
Published: April 2024

The main objective of this rapid systematic review was to examine how the COVID‐19 pandemic impacted peer relationships for adolescents (10–25 years of age) around the globe. We focused on four indices of peer relationships: (1) loneliness, (2) social connectedness, (3) social support, and (4) social media use. In addition, we examined gender and age differences. Four databases (APA PsychInfo, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) were searched for articles published from January 2020 to November 2022. A total of 96 studies (cross‐sectional: n = 66, longitudinal: n = 30, quantitative: n = 67, qualitative: n = 12, mixed‐methods: n = 17) met our inclusion criteria (empirical observational studies with data on at least one of the indices of interest, cross‐sectional data on COVID‐19‐related experiences or longitudinal data collected during the pandemic, age range of 10–25 years, typically developing adolescents). We extracted data and conducted a narrative synthesis. Findings suggest that COVID‐19 disruptions negatively impacted peer relationships for youth. Most studies reported either an increase in loneliness over the course of the pandemic or a positive association between loneliness and COVID‐19‐related experiences. Similar findings were observed for increased social media use as a means of continued communication and connection. Fewer studies focused on social support but those that did reported a decrease or negative association with COVID‐19‐related experiences. Lastly, findings suggest a mixed impact on social connectedness, which might be due to the strengthening of closer ties and weakening of more distant relationships. Results for gender differences were mixed, and a systematic comparison of differences across ages was not possible. The heterogeneity in measures of COVID‐19‐related experiences as well as timing of data collection prevented a more nuanced examination of short and more long‐term impacts.
The development of moral reasoning in urban, high‐social class families from Gujarat, India: A longitudinal study from middle childhood to late adolescence
Authors: Pandya Niyati , Bhangaokar Rachana
Published: April 2024

The aims of the present study were to quantitatively test hypotheses based on the cultural‐developmental approach among children and adolescents in Vadodara, India, and to use qualitative analyses to examine the use of indigenous moral concepts. The study included 72 participants who were interviewed at two different age points, separated by approximately 4.5 years. At Time 1, participants were in middle childhood (Mage = 8.22 years) and in early adolescence (Mage = 11.54 years). At Time 2, the same participants were in early adolescence (Mage = 12.87 years) and late adolescence (Mage = 15.77 years). Three findings stood out: (1) As expected, the degree of use of Autonomy increased over the course of adolescence, as did the types of moral concepts. (2) The degree of use of Community significantly increased from middle childhood to adolescence. Duty, within Community was evoked prominently and consistently across all age points suggesting that aspects of social membership emerge early in Indian children's moral reasoning and remain important through adolescence. (3) The use of Divinity was prominent in middle childhood and its use decreased significantly through early adolescence; with a trend for a decrease in its use from early to late adolescence. While much of the reasoning in middle childhood was dominated by a concern for Punishment Avoidance from God, by adolescence Customary Traditional Authority and God's Authority gained prominence. Findings highlight aspects of adolescent moral reasoning that are largely missing in Western studies and point to the utility of emic, indigenous approaches to study moral development.