bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative effect of oral drugs in improving spasticity of different etiology: a network meta-analysis
Authors: Otero-Luis Iris , Martínez-Rodrigo Arturo , Cavero-Redondo Iván , Moreno-Herráiz Nerea , López-López Samuel , Saz-Lara Alicia
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Spasticity, a prevalent manifestation of various neurological conditions, significantly impacts the quality of life of patients. Research on the effects of oral drugs on spasticity has produced controversial results. Thus, the aim of this network meta-analysis was to compare the efficacy of oral drugs for improving spasticity in patients with different etiologies.

Methods

We searched four different databases from their inception to 30 November 2023. A network meta-analysis using a frequentist perspective was conducted to assess the effects of different oral drugs on spasticity, evaluated by the modified Ashworth scale.

Results

Our findings showed that, in a frequentist network meta-analysis, eperisone, diazepam, and baclofen had significantly greater spasticity, as measured by the modified Ashworth scale, than did the placebo (MD: −0.80; 95% CIs: −1.42, −0.18; MD: −0.68; 95% CIs: −1.28, −0.09; MD: −0.58; 95% CIs: −1.11, −0.06, respectively).

Conclusion

In summary, our study confirmed that eperisone, diazepam, and baclofen could be effective approaches for reducing spasticity of different etiologies and could be useful approaches for improving patient quality of life.

Key messages What is already known on this topic: The impact of oral drugs, such as baclofen, gabapentin, tizanidine, and dantrolene, in the treatment of spasticity has been documented. What this study adds: This study determines which of the oral drugs aimed at treating spasticity is the most effective across different etiologies. How this study might affect research, practice, or policy: This study suggests tailored treatment strategies for spasticity based on its etiology.
Prospective Trial of Sacroiliac Joint Fusion Using 3D-Printed Triangular Titanium Implants
Authors: Patel Vikas , Meyer S. Craig , Kovalsky Don , Lockstadt Harry , Farris Jim , Limoni Robert , Chowdhary Abhineet , Yuan Philip , Langel Casey , Kranenburg Andy , Tender Gabriel
Published: September 2024

Study Design.

Prospective, multicenter, single arm study with 5-year follow up

Objective.

To report long-term (5-year) safety, effectiveness, and radiographic outcomes after sacroiliac (SI) joint fusion (SIJF) with 3D-printed triangular titanium implants (TTI) and compare them with solid titanium plasma spray coated implants

Summary of Background Data.

A large literature base supports minimally invasive SIJF with TTI for chronic SIJ dysfunction.

Methods.

SIJF with TTI was performed in 51 subjects and scheduled follow-up occurred at 3, 6, 12, 24 and 60 months. Postoperative visits included quality of life questionnaires and functional tests. A high-resolution CT scan was performed at either 6 or 12 months, and again at 60 months. All CT scans were interpreted by an independent musculoskeletal radiologist.

Results.

5-year follow-up was available in 36 of 51 subjects (71%). At 5 years, improvements in SI joint pain (58.1 points [0-100 scale]), SIJ-related disability (Oswestry Disability Index [ODI], 25.4 points) and quality of life (EuroQOL 5D, 0.24 points, and EuroQOL visual analog scale, 13.4 points) were sustained and showed no signs of diminution. The percentage of patients using opioids for SIJ pain decreased markedly from baseline (57%) to 5 years (17%). Physical function tests showed persistent improvements from baseline. There was no evidence of device breakage, migration or subsidence and few late adverse events occurred attributable to the device. Independent analysis of CT scans showed bone opposed to implants in all cases, and evidence of bone bridging in 90% of cases, and no evidence of radiolucency or other adverse bone reactions.

Conclusions.

Prospective 5-year follow-up showed that SIJ fusion using 3D-printed TTI resulted in immediate, marked, and persistent improvements in pain and quality of life, with improved physical function, reduced opioid use, and a low rate of revision surgery. Radiographic evidence showed implant integration and joint fusion.

Level of evidence.

Level II.
Cosmetic implant placement in the female breast yields an altered local and systemic immune response: evidence for breast cancer immunosurveillance
Authors: Timmerman Ramsey , Allison Sophia , Dolivo David , Jagasia Puja , Gargiulo Kristine , Battu Shreya , Hong Seok Jong , Helenowski Irene , Kim John YS , Fracol Megan
Published: September 2024

Background:

Women with cosmetic implants have lower rates of future breast cancer than the general population. We hypothesized the implant foreign body response could induce a local protective anti-cancer immunosurveillance. We expanded on our previous finding which showed women with breast implants have elevated antibody responses to certain breast cancer proteins.

Methods:

Blood samples and breast tissue were collected from women undergoing first time breast augmentation (implant-naive, IN) and revision breast augmentation (implant-exposed, IE). Sera were collected and antibody levels to common breast cancer proteins were quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RT-PCR was performed on breast tissue samples to quantify immune-related gene expression levels between IN and IE. Bulk RNA sequencing was performed to identify differentially expressed genes and altered signaling pathways in the breasts of IN versus IE.

Results:

In total, 188 patients were recruited (117 IN, 71 IE). Data demonstrated that IE patients had higher levels of antibodies to MUC-1, ER, and mammaglobin A compared to IN patients. MUC-1 expression was found to be higher in IE compared to IN breast tissue. RNA-seq analysis demonstrated upregulated pathways in IE breast tissue for B cell activation and development, Th2 related genes, T cell activation, chemotactic factors, and responses to estrogen.

Conclusion:

This is the first study to demonstrate that peri-implant inflammation extends beyond the implant capsule to breast parenchyma. Women with breast implants have more activated B cells in the breast parenchyma and elevated antibody responses to breast cancer antigen.
Targeting Kidney Inflammation After Brain Death and Cold Storage: Investigating the Potential of an NLRP3 Inflammasome Inhibitor (MCC950) for Preconditioning Donor Kidneys
Authors: Gonçalves Naiane do Nascimento , Caldas Heloisa Cristina , Marzochi Ludimila Leite , Baptista Maria Alice Sperto Ferreira , Correia Cristiano de Jesus , Faloppa Ana Cristina Breithaupt , Moreira Luiz Felipe Pinho , Abbud-Filho Mario
Published: September 2024

Background.

Brain death (BD) and cold storage (CS) are critical factors that induce inflammation in donor kidneys, compromising organ quality. We investigated whether treating kidneys from BD rats with an inflammasome Nod-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inhibitor (MCC950) followed by CS could reduce kidney inflammation.

Methods.

BD rats were assigned to MCC950-treated or nontreated (NT) groups. Kidneys were evaluated immediately before CS (T0) and after 12 h (T12) and 24 h (T24) of CS. Mean arterial pressure, serum creatinine, gene/protein expression, and histology were evaluated.

Results.

At T0, MCC950 treatment did not affect mean arterial pressure but tended to reduce serum creatinine and ameliorated the histological score of acute tubular necrosis. However, MCC950 reduced NLRP3, caspase-1, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, Kim-1, nuclear factor kappa B, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and caspase-3 gene expression while increasing IL-10 cytokine gene expression. After 12 h of CS, only the expression of the NLRP3 and caspase-1 genes decreased, and after 24 h of CS, no further changes in the gene expression profile were observed. The levels of the inflammasome proteins NLRP3, caspase-1, and IL-1β consistently decreased across all time points (T0, T12, and T24).

Conclusions.

These findings suggest that MCC950 treatment holds promise for mitigating the proinflammatory state observed in kidneys after BD and CS.
Prognostic value of systemic immune-inflammation index in patients with locally advanced renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Lin Tsu-Chen , Su Shih-Huan , Huang Wen-Kuan , Chen Dong-Yi , Pang See-Tong , Chuang Cheng-Keng
Published: September 2024

Purpose:

To assess the prognostic value of systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) for disease progression in locally advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC).

Materials and methods:

A total of 97 patients with locally advanced RCC who underwent curative surgery between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2018 were included in this retrospective study. The study was approved by the Institutional Review Board of Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital with an IRB number of 202000092B0. Outcomes analyzed were the disease-free survival (DFS) of patients with locally advanced RCC and the prognostic value of SII.

Results:

Among 97 locally advanced RCC patients, disease progression was noted in 48.5% of the patients. The median DFS was 55.6 months (95% confidence interval: 45.1–66.2 months). An elevated SII greater or equal to 514 was associated with a poorer DFS. After multivariate analyses of possible predictive factors, SII remained statistically associated with a poorer DFS.

Conclusion:

An elevated SII was associated with a poorer DFS in patients with locally advanced RCC. SII could be used as a prognostic factor to guide the use of adjuvant therapy after curative surgery for patients with locally advanced RCC.
Roles of tranexamic acid on bleeding in percutaneous nephrolithotomy procedure: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Samudera I Made Ari , Hamid Agus Rizal Ardy Hariandy , Nandana Pandu Ishaq
Published: September 2024

Purpose:

Bleeding is the most common percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) complication. We investigated the role of tranexamic acid (TXA), which has numerous benefits in trauma and elective surgery, in PCNL.

Materials and methods:

Systematic reviews were performed using PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, and Google Scholar. This study included randomized clinical trials that compared the effects of TXA and placebo during PCNL. The publication date, which was a limitation of the study, was disregarded. The analysis only included studies published in English that were available in full text. Patients with kidney stones who underwent PCNL were also enrolled. The outcomes comprised blood loss, hemoglobin decrease, blood transfusion rate, and length of hospital stay.

Results:

A total of 1377 patients from 8 studies were included. TXA was correlated with a low rate of blood transfusion (odds ratio = 0.35 [0.22–0.56]; P < 0.00001), blood loss (mean difference [MD] = −66.88 mL [−101.54 to −32.23]; P = 0.0002), decreased hemoglobin levels (MD = −0.67 g/dL [−0.96 to −0.38]; P < 0.00001), and reduced length of hospital stay (MD = −0.61 day [−1.04 to −0.18]; P = 0.005).

Conclusion:

The promising roles of TXA in PCNL procedures have been revealed. Further studies involving additional clinical trials, particularly those that assess interactions and adaptations to patients’ comorbidities, are suggested.
Identification of Salmonella enterica biovars Gallinarum and Pullorum and their antibiotic resistance pattern in integrated crop-livestock farms and poultry meats
Authors: Julianingsih Dita , Alvarado-Martinez Zabdiel , Tabashsum Zajeba , Tung Chuan-Wei , Aditya Arpita , Kapadia Sarika , Maskey Saloni , Mohapatra Aditi , Biswas Debabrata
Published: September 2024

Due to consumer demand, many conventional poultry farms are now growing poultry without antibiotics or synthetic chemicals. In addition to this, pasture/organic poultry farms have increased significantly in the USA, and they are also antibiotic- and chemical-free. According to recent reports, both antibiotic-free conventional and pasture poultry farmers are facing the re-emergence of bacterial diseases. Bacterial diseases cause higher mortality rates in birds and lead to non-profitable poultry farming. This study investigated the prevalence of Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Gallinarum biovars Gallinarum (S. Gallinarum), the causative agent of fowl typhoid, and Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Gallinarum biovars Pullorum (S. Pullorum), the causative agent of pullorum disease, within integrated crop-livestock/pasture farm environments and their processed products. Specifically, the study focused on both the pre-harvest period, which includes the conditions and practices on the farm before the crops and livestock are harvested, and the post-harvest period, which encompasses the handling, processing, and storage of the products after harvest. A total of 1286 samples were collected from six farms and adjacent 13 markets to determine the prevalence of S. Gallinarum and S. Pullorum by using both microbiological culture and molecular techniques, specifically PCR. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the agar dilution method for the recommended antibiotics as described in the Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). S. Pullorum was detected in 11 samples (2.7%), while S. Gallinarum was found in six samples (1.5%) out of a total of 403 samples at the pre-harvest level. At the post-harvest level, only S. Gallinarum was identified in 14 meat samples out of 883(1.6%) recovered from samples collected from retail markets. Antibiogram showed S. Gallinarum and S. Pullorum to be highly resistant to cephradine, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, amoxicillin, streptomycin, and ampicillin. This data demonstrates that both S. Pullorum and S. Gallinarum are commonly present in farm poultry environments as well as the products sold in the markets, which warrants implementation of regular surveillance and monitoring programmes, as well as potentially requiring future control strategies to reduce S. Pullorum and S. Gallinarum transmission.
Key roles of the zona pellucida and perivitelline space in promoting gamete fusion and fast block to polyspermy inferred from the choreography of spermatozoa in mice oocytes
Authors: Dubois Yaëlle , Favier Sophie , Martin-Fornier Nathan , Omrane Mohyeddine , Stroebel David , Perez Eric , Barbaux Sandrine , Ziyyat Ahmed , Rodriguez Nicolas , Gourier Christine
Published: September 2024

Mammalian fertilization is still lacking a comprehensive understanding of gamete fusion and block to polyspermy mechanisms. One reason is that they are highly dynamic processes involving transient events that can only be revealed and characterized by direct observation. To extend while challenging existing knowledge, this study applies real time brightfield and confocal imaging to inseminated ZP-intact mouse oocytes and statistical analyses to establish an accurate dynamic picture of the cascade of events leading to fusion and prevention of polyspermy in conditions as close to physiology as possible. These observations allow to characterize the roles of the different components of the oocyte (i.e. zona pellucida (ZP), perivitelline space (PVS), oocyte plasma membrane (OPM)) and the spermatozoon (i.e. head, flagellum) in promoting fertilization and preventing polyspermy. The kinetics we have determined challenge dogmas by showing that: (i) the first sperm is not necessarily the one that fertilizes in mice pointing to the existence of other post-penetration fertilization factors, (ii) the ZP block resulting from the cortical reaction is too slow to contribute to the prevention of polyspermy in mice. On the other hand, it evidences that the ZP directly contributes to polyspermy block in two other ways: (a) as a naturally effective entry barrier for the spermatozoon (independent of any block caused by fertilization), (b) as an effective exit barrier for components released by the OPM, which may contribute to a fast PVS block to polyspermy through the neutralizing of unwanted spermatozoa in the PVS. Moreover, our observations reveal that the ZP plays a key role in fertilization itself by channeling the flagellar oscillations of spermatozoa in the PVS to make them conducive to fusion.
Osteocyte-derived erythroferrone regulates liver hepcidin during stress erythropoiesis
Authors: Myneni Vamsee D , Parashar Abhinav , Szalayova Ildikó , Mezey Eva
Published: September 2024

Our knowledge of which bone marrow cells affect red cell production is still incomplete. To explore the role of osteocytes in the process we performed bulk RNAseq of osteocytes isolated from control and phlebotomized mice. The top-upregulated gene following phlebotomy wasFam132b, erythroferrone (Erfe).Erfeexpression in osteocytes was also upregulated after erythropoietin (EPO) treatment and hypoxiain vitro. To explore if osteocytes contribute to the systemic ERFE levels, we generated two mouse models. We first transplanted wild-type BM inErfe-/-mice creating a model where ERFE is produced in the BM but not by osteocytes. After phlebotomy, liver hepcidin suppression was significantly lower in mice where the osteocytes could not produce ERFE. To confirm that osteocytes are responsible for this difference, we generated mice lacking EPO receptors in osteocytes by crossingEporflox/floxandDmp1-Cre mice. After phlebotomy, these mice showed reduced hepcidin suppression in the liver and higher circulating serum hepcidin levels compared to controls. Our work identified a novel function of osteocytes in suppressing systemic hepcidin levels during stress erythropoiesis.
GERMIN3 plays a role in plasmodesmatal gating to regulate meristem activation related to tuberisation, tuber dormancy release and stem branching in potato
Authors: Campbell Raymond , Cowan Graham , Wurzinger Bernhard , Ducreux Laurence J.M. , Dessoly Jimmy , Guo Wenbin , Zhang Runxuan , Morris Jenny A. , Hedley Pete , Wahl Vanessa , Taylor Mark A. , Hancock Robert D.
Published: September 2024

GERMIN3has previously been identified as a target of the tuberigen activation complex suggesting a function in potato tuberisation but its role is presently unknown.

To understand the role of GERMIN3 we analysed morphological, agronomic and molecular phenotypes in transgenic lines.

GERMIN3over-expressing lines ofSolanum tuberosumssp.andigenaexhibited increased tuber yields under permissive conditions and enhanced tuber numbers. Post-harvest tuber sprouting exhibited reduced apical dominance with increased numbers of sprouts. Apical dominance was reduced in aerial tissues of mature plants where stem growth from axillary buds was activated. Similar results were observed in the commercial cultivar Desiree. Over-expression ofGERMIN3had no impact on the expression ofSP6A, a positive regulator of tuberisation orTFL1B, a negative regulator. The GERMIN3 protein localised to the endoplasmic reticulum and transient expression inN. benthamianaleaves resulted in plasmodesmatal gating allowing intercellular transport of GFP-tagged sporamin independent of GERMIN3 oxalate oxidase activity.

GERMIN3 affects tuberisation and other developmental processes by facilitating meristem activation. This identifies GERMIN3 as a novel protein associated with control of plasmodesmatal transport and supports the importance of plasmodesmatal gating in the regulation of key potato developmental processes.
Current Reporting Practices in Human Neuroscience Research
Authors: Gard Arianna M. , Shariq Deena , Albrecht Alison A. , Lurie Alaina , Kim Hyung Cho , Mitchell Colter , Hyde Luke W.
Published: September 2024

Concerns for the replicability, reliability, and generalizability of human neuroimaging research have led to intense debates over sample size and open science practices, with more recent attention on the contributions of sampling and recruitment practices. Key to understanding the state of neuroscience research is an assessment of reporting practices that influence replicability, reliability, and generalizability. In this structured review, we evaluated reporting practice across three domains: (1) demographic (e.g., reporting participant race-ethnicity, age, any measure of socioeconomic position), (2) methodological (e.g., reporting recruitment methods, inclusion and exclusion criteria, why participants were excluded from analyses), and (3) open science and generalizability (e.g., analyses were preregistered, target population was stated). Included were 919 published MRI and fMRI studies from 2019 in nine top-ranked journals (N = 3,856 records screened). Reporting across domains was infrequent, with participant racial or ethnic identity (14.8%), reasons for missing imaging data (31.2%), and identification of a target population (19.4%) being particularly low/underreported. Reporting likelihood varied by study characteristics (e.g., participant age group) and was correlated across domains. The median sample size of studies was 55 participants. Study sample size, reporting frequency, was positively associated with two-year citation counts, providing some evidence that the complete reporting of demographic characteristics, methodological decisions, and open science and generalizability practices may not be as valued as study sample size. Recommendations for structural interventions at the journal level are proposed.
Pionic transitions of the spin-2 partner of
X(3872)
to
χcJ
Authors: Liu Shi-Dong , Wang Fan , Jia Zhao-Sai , Li Gang , Liu Xiao-Hai , Xie Ju-Jun
Published: September 2024

We investigated the pionic transitions between the X2 [spin-2 partner of the X(3872)] and χc1,2 using a nonrelativistic effective field theory. The X2 is assumed to be a bound state of the D* and D¯* mesons and to decay through several kinds of loops, including the bubble, triangle, and box loops. Within the present model, the widths for the single-pion decays X2→π0χcJ are predicted to be about 3–30 keV. For the dipion decays, the widths are a few keVs. These widths yield a branching fraction of 10−3–10−2. The ratio Rc0=Γ(X2→π+π−χcJ)/Γ(X2→π0π0χcJ)≃1.6, which is a bit smaller than the expected value of 2, and R21=Γ(X2→ππχc2)/Γ(X2→ππχc1)≃0.85. These ratios are nearly independent of the X2 mass and the coupling constants, which might be a good quantity for the experiments. Moreover, the invariant mass spectra of the π0χcJ final state for the dipion processes are presented, showing a cusp structure at the DD¯* threshold enhanced and narrowed by the nearby triangle singularity.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
High-transmission spectrometer for rapid resonant inelastic soft X-ray scattering (rRIXS) maps
Authors: Weinhardt Lothar , Wansorra Constantin , Steininger Ralph , Spangenberg Thomas , Hauschild Dirk , Heske Clemens
Published: September 2024

The design and first results of a high-transmission soft X-ray spectrometer operated at the X-SPEC double-undulator beamline of the KIT Light Source are presented. As a unique feature, particular emphasis was placed on optimizing the spectrometer transmission by maximizing the solid angle and the efficiencies of spectrometer gratings and detector. A CMOS detector, optimized for soft X-rays, allows for quantum efficiencies of 90% or above over the full energy range of the spectrometer, while simultaneously offering short readout times. Combining an optimized control system at the X-SPEC beamline with continuous energy scans (as opposed to step scans), the high transmission of the spectrometer, and the fast readout of the CMOS camera, enable the collection of entire rapid resonant inelastic soft X-ray scattering maps in less than 1 min. Series of spectra at a fixed energy can be taken with a frequency of up to 5 Hz. Furthermore, the use of higher-order reflections allows a very wide energy range (45 to 2000 eV) to be covered with only two blazed gratings, while keeping the efficiency high and the resolving power E/ΔE above 1500 and 3000 with low- and high-energy gratings, respectively.
[(1,2,5,6-η)-Cycloocta-1,5-diene](1-ethyl-4-isobutyl-1,2,4-triazol-5-ylidene)(triphenylphosphane)iridium(I) tetrafluoridoborate dichloromethane hemisolvate
Authors: Lerch Timothy G. , Gau Michael , Albert Daniel R. , Rajaseelan Edward
Published: September 2024

A new triazole-based N-heterocyclic carbene IrI cationic complex with a tetrafluoridoborate counter-anion and hemi-solvating dichloromethane, [Ir(C8H12)(C8H15N3)(C18H15P)]BF4·0.5CH2Cl2, has been synthesized and structurally characterized. There are two independent ion pairs in the asymmetric unit and one dichloromethane solvent molecule per two ion pairs. The cationic complex exhibits a distorted square-planar conformation around the IrI atom, formed by a bidentate cycloocta-1,5,diene (COD) ligand, a triphenylphosphane ligand, and an N-heterocyclic carbene (NHC). There are several close non-standard H...F hydrogen-bonding interactions that orient the tetrafluoridoborate anions with respect to the IrI complex molecules. The complex shows promising catalytic activity in transfer hydrogenation reactions. The structure was refined as a non-merohedral twin, and one of the COD molecules is statistically disordered.
Deciphering the growth of digital payment adoption: an extensive SPAR-4 bibliometric exploration
Authors: Jain Vishu , Jain Neelam
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to perform a detailed bibliometric analysis of digital payment adoption and map the trends and growth in this field by examining seminal works, conceptual foundations and intellectual networks.

Design/methodology/approach

The Scientific Procedures and Rationales for Systematic Literature Reviews (SPAR-4-SLR) technique was applied to retrieve 1,016 journal articles from Scopus and Web of Science (2003–2023). Diverse performance analyses and science mapping methods were performed using the Biblioshiny package in R to gain a comprehensive understanding of the field’s knowledge base.

Findings

The findings reveal a significant increase in scholarly interest, marked by a surge in publications and citations in recent years. Co-citation and factorial analysis identified distinct research clusters, delineating core themes and suggesting future research avenues relevant to theoretical exploration in digital payment technologies.

Originality/value

This study is a groundbreaking effort to explore the adoption of digital payment through bibliometric analysis. It uniquely addresses key domains for science mapping, including intellectual and conceptual structures. These innovative findings provide valuable insights for future practitioners, academics and aspiring researchers in the field.
Understanding philanthropic leadership: a bibliometric analysis of research trends over the 1991–2021 period
Authors: Ben Jaafar Sonia , Bodolica Virginia
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Philanthropy has developed into a trillion-dollar industry with substantial transnational funds. Scholarly research on philanthropic leadership has experienced substantial growth since the 1990s, but as an academic field, it remains ill-defined. The purpose of this study is to examine the current state of the literature on philanthropic leadership to determine the extent to which the field needs to be further specialized.

Design/methodology/approach

Relying on the VOSviewer software version 1.6.15, the authors conducted a bibliometric analysis of 470 identified articles published between 1991 and 2021 to uncover the most influential articles, academic outlets and scholars in the field.

Findings

There is a noticeable lack of literature that accurately reflects the overall practice of philanthropic leadership. Most specialized research concentrates on the influence of corporate leaders in using philanthropic activities as a means of achieving business objectives. However, it is essential to recognize that leadership plays a critical role in effective philanthropy, which benefits various stakeholders and produces favorable spillover effects. The findings indicate that existing literature tends to focus on the influence of corporate leaders on philanthropic activities and their correlation with business outcomes.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the field by offering insights into the intellectual structure of the field and assists with the identification of new research directions within the philanthropic leadership domain. Further scholarly consideration is needed to understand the practice of philanthropic leadership.
Study on the relationship between high temperature oxidation and temperature rise rate of engine oil
Authors: Wei Lei , Xie Pan , Hu Jing Guang , Zeng Zhen Hao , Yang Pei , Yang Feihui , He Jia Jun , Chen Song
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the relationship between high temperature oxidation and temperature rise rate of engine oil attempted to explore a new indicator to evaluate oil degradation.

Design/methodology/approach

Accelerated oxidation test combined with molecular simulation and road test is carried out in this paper. The temperature rise characteristics of mineral oil and synthetic oil under different oxidation temperatures (140°C, 155°C and 170°C) and time (50 h, 100 h, 150 h and 200 h) were determined by accelerated oxidation. The mechanism of temperature change characteristics of used oils was analyzed with molecular simulation. Two experimental vehicles carried six road tests with synthetic and mineral oil.

Findings

The results of this study show that the temperature rise rate of oxidized mineral and synthetic oil is higher than the new oil. The temperature rise rate is proportional to the oxidation time and oxidation temperature. The synthetic engine oil temperature rise rate is lower than that of the mineral engine oil. The same result was obtained in road tests. Molecular simulation verifies that small molecules were generated after oil oxidation which results in intermolecular friction and increased heat generation.

Originality/value

This paper indicates that temperature rise rate has potential to be taken as an indicator to evaluate oil oxidation which provides a new way for engine oil analysis.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-05-2024-0177/
Is financial development a prerequisite for the tourism-led growth phenomenon? World-wide evidence
Authors: Sharma Chandan
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to re-examine the growth effects of tourism and role of financial development in this process for countries across the globe for the period 1995–2018.

Design/methodology/approach

Considering the asymmetric effect of tourism on economic performance, the author makes use of a recently developed method of moments approach of quantile regression with fixed effects proposed by Machado and Silva (2019).

Findings

Model-based on tourist arrival shows a positive effect of tourism on economic performance. Yet, the effect is conditional and shows that relatively low-income economies are benefited more than high-income economies. The results also show that all types of tourism are beneficial for growth, yet business-related tourist arrivals are found to be comparatively more effective than other types of tourism. The evidence also shows that excess tourism does not dampen growth. Finally, the evidence suggests that financial development offers critical absorptive capacity, and tourism-led growth cannot be realised without it.

Originality/value

In contrast to previous studies, the approach effectively deals with non-normality, endogeneity and heterogeneity across issues. Furthermore, this study uniquely tests the role of financial development in channelling tourism-led development.
Using Game Theory for a Schumpeterian analysis of emerging industries: the historical case of the U.S. Steel industry
Authors: Maurer Florian , Fritzsche Albrecht
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the development of the US steel industry from the 19th to the 20th century by applying the Schumpeterian perspective on the concept of creative destruction. It introduces Game Theory as a means to describe patterns of strategic situations and entrepreneurial decision-making in an emerging industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a narrative literature review of Schumpeter’s concept of creative destruction, four historical case studies have been designed. These historical case studies build the basis for game-theoretically analysis and evaluation. In doing so, the authors identify games with different payoff matrices that take place while an industry emerges, reflecting different layers of creative destruction.

Findings

Emerging industries, as this paper highlights, go through several stages of development until they reach full maturity. With Schumpeter, these stages can be studied through an entrepreneurial lens, highlighting different patterns of decision-making in each respective stage. This paper adds to a better understanding of emerging industries. Furthermore, this paper provides a methodological repertoire that can also be applied to other cases as well, such as the emergence of contemporary digital industries.

Research limitations/implications

The paper provides a horizontal overview of how Game Theory can be applied to analyze industrial epochs and how the concept of creative destruction works in industry and transforms industry. It introduces Game Theory to management and business history as a sound methodological base to analyze and evaluate strategic situations and entrepreneurial decision-making.

Practical implications

The paper presents a comprehensive method to act in the different stages of an industrial epoch and how to act. The games applied in the particular layers of creative destruction give an insight into the analysis of strategic situations and strategic decision-making in the industry.

Originality/value

This paper provides a horizontal perspective on strategic games that can be used as an analysis methodology in the field of entrepreneurship and applied in contemporary industries. It connects historical cases out of the US steel industry with Schumpeter’s concept of creative destruction and Game Theory.
Clinician- vs non-clinician-supported eTherapy for anxiety and depression
Authors: Lidbetter Nicky , Grigoroglou Christos , Seccombe Nic , Taxiarchi Vicky Paraskevi , Court Keanu , Karachaliou Dimitra
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The efficacy of supported computerised therapy (eTherapy) for anxiety and depression is established; however, questions remain regarding supporter type. This paper aims to examine differences in client outcomes between clinician- (Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner) and non-clinician-supported, low intensity eTherapy. Standardised outcome measures were collected and analysed pre- and post-intervention in two eTherapy services as part of National Health Service (NHS) commissioned, Improving Access to Psychological Therapy provision – now known as NHS Talking Therapies for anxiety and depression (TT).

Design/methodology/approach

This study is a routine service evaluation comparing two eTherapy services. In total, 494 clients (including 455 clients meeting caseness) accessed the service over a year as part of routine care for anxiety and depression. The Patient Health Questionnaire and Generalised Anxiety Disorder Questionnaire scales were administered pre- and post-treatment as part of the TT data set (NHS England, 2024).

Findings

Following adjustment for demographics, baseline assessment scores and clinical variables, the authors found no evidence to support differences in the likelihood of recovery between clients in the non-clinician-supported site and clients referred to the clinician-supported site: OR = 1.24 [95%CI: 0.71 to 2.17] for TT recovery, OR = 0.83 [95%CI: 0.47 to 1.49] for TT reliable improvement and OR = 1.11 [95%CI: 0.65 to 1.92] for TT reliable recovery.

Originality/value

Non-clinician-supported eTherapy is as effective as clinician-supported eTherapy. This finding supports the case for expansion of non-clinician-supported eTherapy services in TT services.
European Countries have Reduced Antimicrobial Use (AMU) in Livestock but Have They Also Replaced and Rethought AMU? A Qualitative Approach
Authors: Baudoin Fanny , Wauters Erwin
Published: September 2024

As part of the transition to more sustainable agriculture, it has been observed that changes leading to low‐to‐moderate sustainability, including optimisation and substitution of production processes, are often preferred to more radical changes leading to deep sustainability, i.e. redesigning production processes. In this light, we sought to explore whether this was also the case for antimicrobial use in farm animal production, which has changed over the past decade in an effort to decrease the prevalence of antimicrobial resistance in humans and animals. To explore this, a qualitative approach was used to 1) identify interventions in 12 animal production sectors across 9 European countries, 2) characterise them, and 3) estimate their potential to contribute to the ‘reduce’, ‘replace’ and ‘rethink’ approaches by stimulating the adoption of behaviours related to these strategies. Our findings revealed that while some interventions were identified to potentially contribute solely to one or two of the approaches, the majority were deemed capable of contributing to all three. However, for these interventions, our data suggest that their actual impact, as implemented, was confined to the ‘reduce’ and ‘replace’ approaches, an observation for which we put forward several hypotheses. In addition, policy implications are drawn.
How Contexts and Desired Impacts Shape Interventions towards Improved Antimicrobial Use in Animal Production
Authors: Molia Sophie , Wauters Erwin , Ribbens Stefaan , Belloc Catherine , Canali Massimo , Kongsted Hanne , Studnitz Merete
Published: September 2024

The objective of this study was to analyse and compare the interventions (sets of actions) towards improved antimicrobial use (AMU) in animal production. These were designed in Living Labs (LLs) organised in five countries of the ROADMAP project, with ex ante impact assessment (EAIA) to guide the process. LL participants designed very different types of interventions which targeted systematically farmers and veterinarians but less frequently other stakeholders, despite the ROADMAP ambition to involve the whole value chain in AMU transition scenarios. A variety of factors influenced which interventions were designed, such as the country's AMU levels, existence of AMU monitoring systems, the possibility for veterinarians to profit from antimicrobials sales, export‐orientation of the animal production sector and political momentum. Other influential factors included the breadth of desired impacts that the LL participants wished to produce through the interventions they designed (limited to animal health aspects or encompassing other subjects such as animal welfare, consumer information or veterinary business models) and the LL process (choice of participants and facilitators). Overall, the approach succeeded in providing a holistic vision of the possible measures and the obstacles towards improved AMU and produced context‐tailored interventions with high acceptability. However, they had limited results in terms of system rethinking.
The Importance of Economic Assessments to Support Changes in Livestock Farming Practices: A Focus on Antimicrobial Use
Authors: Afonso João Sucena , Rushton Jonathan
Published: September 2024

The intensification of livestock farming reshaped the epidemiological, economic and environmental landscape of production systems. With the resulting increase in disease pressure, farmers turned to readily available and cost‐efficient tools to help manage animal health and even increase productivity – antimicrobials. Growing concerns around antimicrobial resistance (AMR) have prompted regulatory and private initiatives to curtail antimicrobial use (AMU) in livestock. The latter indicates that farmers/livestock industry are taking some ownership of the problem and playing a key role in the solution. In fact, recent research has found that farmers are willing to adjust farming practices if this does not affect financial viability of their businesses. However, our scoping literature review found that information is lacking or insufficient for farmers to make these decisions. It is also vital to understand the extent to which farm‐level decisions are producing negative externalities, and what needs to be changed to ensure societal optimum. While advocating for a sustainable reduction in AMU in livestock production, it is important to provide adequate information on the alternatives to their application in managing animal health and welfare. Evidence on the economic, productive and/or epidemiological benefits of such alternatives, when compared to the current situation, are crucial if farmers are to change their production practices with regards to AMU.
Testicular self‐examination: The role of anticipated relief and anticipated regret
Authors: Lorimer Sara , McCormack Teresa , Hoerl Christoph , Beck Sarah R. , Johnston Matthew , Feeney Aidan
Published: September 2024

Objective

Anticipated regret has been implicated in health‐related decision‐making. Recent work on influenza vaccination has suggested that anticipated relief, too, may influence individuals' decisions to engage in positive health behaviours. To explore these affective components further and address the generality of possible mechanisms underlying these associations, we examined whether anticipated relief and anticipated regret independently predict testicular self‐examination (TSE) intention and behaviour. Given claims about differences in their nature and function, we distinguished between counterfactual relief (relief that a worse outcome did not obtain) and temporal relief (relief that an unpleasant experience is over).

Design

Prospective correlational.

Methods

At Time 1 (July 2022), 567 cis‐gendered males were asked to complete measures of anticipated regret, anticipated counterfactual and temporal relief, measures of the Theory of Planned Behaviour and measures of anxiety and shame. One month later, the same participants were recontacted and asked about their engagement in TSE in the previous month.

Results

Anticipated counterfactual relief and anticipated regret are independent, positive, predictors of intention to engage in TSE and, indirectly, TSE behaviour itself. Interestingly, anticipated temporal relief was negatively associated with intention to engage in TSE and, indirectly, behaviour.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that it may be the counterfactual nature of anticipated regret and anticipated relief that underlies their positive association with TSE and other health‐promoting behaviours. Interventions designed to increase engagement in preventive health behaviours, such as TSE, may benefit from the consideration of both positively and negatively valenced counterfactual emotions.
Changes of NLRP3 in serum and cerebrospinal fluid of patients after moderate to severe traumatic brain injury and their predictive values for prognosis
Authors: Chen Wei , Wang Zhigang , Ye Gengfan , Zhu Guangyao , Li Shiwei , Chen Pandi , Wang Hongcai , Zou Shufeng , Chen Maosong
Published: September 2024

Background

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains a major concern for global health. Recent studies have suggested the role of NOD‐like receptor pyrin domain‐containing protein 3 (NLRP3), an inflammatory marker, in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum as potential indicators of TBI prognosis. The objective of the study was to characterize NLRP3 as a clinically applicable tool for predicting the outcomes of TBI patients.

Methods

A total of 270 patients with moderate to severe TBI were included in this retrospective analysis. Serum and CSF samples were collected at 1‐, 3‐, 7‐, and 21‐day post‐injury to measure NLRP3 levels. The prognosis of patients was evaluated after 3 months using the Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS). Patients were categorized into good prognosis (GOS score >3) and poor prognosis (GOS score ≤3) groups. The relationship between NLRP3 levels and prognosis was analyzed.

Results

Patients with poor prognosis had significantly elevated NLRP3 levels in their serum on days 1 and 3 post‐injury compared with those with a good prognosis. The difference was more pronounced during these early days compared with days 7 and 21. However, NLRP3 levels in CSF consistently showed a large difference between the two groups throughout the observation period. Receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed that the level of NLRP3 in the CSF on day 3 post‐injury had the highest predictive value for prognosis, with an area under the curve of 0.83, followed by the level of NLRP3 in the serum on day 3 post‐injury.

Conclusions

The levels of NLRP3, especially in the CSF on day 3 post‐injury, can serve as a potential biomarker for predicting prognosis in moderate to severe TBI patients. Early measurement of NLRP3 levels can provide valuable insights into patient outcomes and guide therapeutic strategies.
A novel strategy for spinal cord reconstruction via vascularized allogeneic spinal cord transplantation combine spinal cord fusion
Authors: Zhang Weihua , Lan Rongyu , Shen Tingting , Qin Jie , Wang Zhihui , Chen Jiayang , Wang Jiaxing , Wu Zhuotan , Xu Yudong , Shen Yangyang , Lin Qikai , Chen Yuan , Wei Yi , Liu Yiwen , Ning Yuance , Zhou Yiyan , Deng Liji , Han Linxuan , Wu Xiaofei , Deng Haixuan , Cao Zhenbin , Yao Xianping , Ren Xiaoping
Published: September 2024

Aims

Spinal cord injuries (SCI) pose persistent challenges in clinical practice due to the secondary injury. Drawing from our experience in spinal cord fusion (SCF), we propose vascularized allogeneic spinal cord transplantation (vASCT) as a novel approach for SCI, much like organ transplantation has revolutionized organ failure treatment and vascularized composite‐tissue allotransplantation has addressed limb defects.

Materials and Methods

In this study, 24 dogs were paired and underwent vASCT, with donor spinal cord grafts and polyethylene glycol (PEG) application for SCF. The experimental group (n = 8) received tacrolimus and methylprednisolone, while the control group (n = 4) received only methylprednisolone. Safety and efficacy of vASCT were evaluated through electrophysiology, imaging, and 6‐month follow‐up.

Results

The experimental group showed substantial recovery in hind limb motor function. Imaging revealed robust survival of spinal cord grafts and restoration of spinal cord continuity. In contrast, the control group maintained hind limb paralysis, with imaging confirming spinal cord graft necrosis and extensive defects. Electrophysiologically, the experimental group exhibited restored motor evoked potential signal conduction postoperatively, unlike the control group. Notably, PEG application during vASCT led to signal conduction recovery in intraoperative spinal cord evoked potential examinations for all dogs.

Conclusion

In the vASCT surgical model, the combination of PEG with tacrolimus has demonstrated the ability to reconstruct spinal cord continuity and restore hind limb motor function in beagles. Notably, a low dose of tacrolimus has also exhibited an excellent anti‐immune rejection effect. These findings highlight vASCT's potential promise as a therapeutic strategy for addressing irreversible SCI.