bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unlocking the potential: leveraging blockchain technology for agri-food supply chain performance and sustainability
Authors: Vern Priyanka , Panghal Anupama , Mor Rahul S. , Kumar Vikas , Sarwar Dilshad
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Blockchain technology (BCT) has emerged as a powerful tool for enhancing transparency and trust. However, the relationship between the benefits of BCT and agri-food supply chain performance (AFSCperf) remains underexplored. Therefore, the current study investigates the influence of BCT on AFSCperf and sustainability issues.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a comprehensive literature review, various benefits of BCT are identified. Subsequently, a research framework is proposed based on data collected from questionnaire surveys and personal visits to professionals in the agri-food industry. The proposed framework is validated using partial least square structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM).

Findings

The findings reveal that BCT positively impacts AFSCperf by improving traceability, transparency, food safety and quality, immutability and trust. Additionally, BCT adoption enhances stakeholder collaboration, provides a decentralised network, improves data accessibility and yields a better return on investment, resulting in the overall improvement in AFSCperf and socio-economic sustainability.

Practical implications

This study offers valuable practical insights for practitioners and academicians, establishing empirical links between the benefits of BCT and AFSCperf and providing a deeper understanding of BCT adoption.

Originality/value

Stakeholders, managers, policymakers and technology providers can leverage these findings to optimise the benefits of BCT in enhancing AFSCperf. Moreover, it utilises rigorous theoretical and empirical approaches, drawing on a multidisciplinary perspective encompassing food operations and supply chain literature, public policy, information technology, strategy, organisational theory and sustainability.
A meta-analytic comparison of scent effect between retailing and hospitality
Authors: Fong Lawrence Hoc Nang , Wang Erin Yirun , Ricaforte Benigno Glenn R. , Costa Rui Augusto
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This meta-analysis aims to examine and compare the pleasant ambient scent effects on consumers’ affective, cognitive and behavioural responses in the retail and hospitality sectors.

Design/methodology/approach

55 articles, including 102 effect sizes, are collected from electronic databases and search engines. The effect of pleasant ambient scents on consumer responses is examined using meta-regression analysis.

Findings

The results show a positive effect of pleasant ambient scent on all responses in both sectors, while the effects on cognitive and behavioural responses are stronger in hospitality than retailing. Moreover, the scent effects in hospitality research vary with method aspects, including sampling frame, research design, setting and location.

Research limitations/implications

The findings provide theoretical insights on the sensory tangibilization of experience and methodological insights on designing scent research.

Originality/value

The stronger effect of pleasant ambient scents on cognitive and behavioural responses in a hospitality environment signals that contextual differences should not be neglected. Moreover, hospitality researchers need to stay vigilant to the methodological influence on the findings about scent effects. These findings enrich the sensory marketing literature, in which contextual comparison is scarce.
Revisiting consumer responses in situational animosity: a reference group perspective
Authors: Chang Hsing-Hua Stella , Fong Cher-Min , Chen I-Hung
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the role of interpersonal influence on consumer purchase decisions regarding foreign products, specifically by exploring consumers’ social reaction styles (acquisitive and protective) when confronted with normative pressures and their subsequent impact on consumers’ purchase behavior in the context of situational animosity.

Design/methodology/approach

Three studies were conducted in China to empirically examine the proposed research model. The US–China Chip War of 2022 was used as the research context for situational animosity, while the Japan–China relationship representing a stable animosity condition was used for contrast.

Findings

This study establishes the mediating role of perceived normative pressure in linking animosity attitudes to purchase avoidance in situational animosity. It also validates that consumers’ social reaction styles (acquisitive and protective) help predict distinct behavioral outcomes, holding significant implications for advancing research in the field of product and brand consumption.

Originality/value

This research provides a novel perspective by exploring consumers’ social reaction styles when dealing with normative pressure in situational animosity. The distinction between acquisitive and protective reaction styles adds depth and originality to the study. Moreover, this study examines consumer behavior in two distinct consumption contexts: switching intentions to local products and purchase intentions for products from offending countries in hidden consumption situations. This dual perspective offers a comprehensive exploration of consumers’ purchase behavior under normative pressure, contributing to the novelty of this research.
Future past tense of abusive supervision: a narrative inquiry
Authors: Masood Huda , Mercer Marlee , Karakowsky Len
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to examine the narratives of victims of abusive supervision. We explore the meaning or “lessons” victims derive from those experiences and how they shape the victims’ views of self, work and organization in relation to navigating their subsequent jobs.

Design/methodology/approach

We analyzed how appraisals of supervisory abuse transform victims’ narratives and their consequent work attitudes through sensemaking processes. Semi-structured interviews with the past victims of abusive supervision generated a four-stage model of how sensemaking shapes victims’ future work attitudes. Our interpretations were guided through narrative thematic analysis based on the constructionist approach.

Findings

Victims’ lessons learned are predominantly framed by their retrospective post-event appraisal of abuse (based on its severity) once individuals are no longer subject to abusive supervision. With greater distance from the abuse, victims can process the abuse and better understand the motivation of the abuser, enabling the process of causal attributions. These attributions further shape victims’ narratives and future work attitudes through a complex interplay of retrospective and prospective sensemaking mechanisms. The victims broadly reported proactive (with higher self-awareness and endurance) and reactive (self-protection, and emotional scars) lessons. A four-stage model was proposed based on our findings.

Originality/value

Abusive supervision remains a persistent issue experienced by many individuals at some point in their working life. However, little is known about how victims make sense of the event post-abuse and how this sense-making guides their future work behaviors. Understanding this phenomenon provides insight into how employees navigate through adversity and construct a more positive future. The contribution of this narrative inquiry is threefold. First, it explores how individual appraisals of supervisory abuse frame their (1) mechanisms of narrative construction; and (2) future work attitudes. Second, our findings demonstrate how narrative construction is a fluid process often informed by the process of retrospective and prospective sensemaking. Finally, our research suggests two broader categories of lessons that victims internalize and carry forward to their subsequent jobs.
Circular water management: benefits and challenges to improve water availability
Authors: Silva Jorge Alejandro
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose is to conduct a systematic review of circular water management and its role in improving water availability amid increased demand and decreased supply.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review was implemented, which helped in the identification, selection and critical appraisal of the various research to answer the research question. It was guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA) statement. The review was conducted mainly on Web of Science and Scopus databases between November 20 and December 8, 2022, with search strategies involving free-text searching, phrase searching, truncation and Boolean operators.

Findings

The search process yielded 46 articles exploring circular water management. The findings reveal that circular water management offers more promise than linear or business-as-usual approaches. There are various circular water management models, although most of them emphasize a shift from the “take, make, consume and waste” principles. Contrarily, the success of the circular water management framework hinges on its ability to embrace resilience based on changing environmental conditions. Furthermore, the model focuses on improving inclusiveness with various stakeholders working together to improve water management.

Originality/value

The research is the first of its kind as it identifies a critical gap, the imperative need to develop a universal framework that can significantly advance the comprehension of circular water management.
A systematic review of factors influencing self-governed public open spaces: insights from social-ecological system framework and collective action
Authors: Shi Xuerui , Ling Gabriel Hoh Teck
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Due to the influence of complex and intersecting factors, self-governed public open spaces (POSs) (managed by local communities) are subject to collective action dilemmas such as tragedy of the commons (overexploitation), free-riding, underinvestment and mismanagement. This review paper adopts a multi-dimensional and multi-tier social-ecological system (SES) framework proposed by McGinnis and Ostrom, drawing on collective action theory to explore the key institutional-social-ecological factors that impact POS self-governance.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) was utilized to systematically screen and review the relevant literature for the period from 2000 to 2023 in three databases: Web of Science, Scopus and Google Scholar. A total of 57 papers were chosen for in-depth analysis.

Findings

The literature review identified and categorized several variables associated with the self-organizing system of POS; consequently, an SES-based POS management framework was developed for the first time, consisting of 114 institutional-social-ecological sub-variables from different dimensions and three levels. Compared to ecological factors, among others, governance organizations, property-rights systems, socioeconomic attributes and actors' knowledge of SES have been commonly and primarily studied.

Research limitations/implications

There is still room for the refinement of the conceptual SES-based POS collective action framework over the time (by adding in new factors), and indefinitely empirical research validating those identified factors is also worth to be undertaken, particularly testing how SES factors and interaction variables affect the POS quality (collective action).

Originality/value

The findings of this study can provide local policy insights and POS management strategies based on the identification of specific SES factors for relevant managers. Moreover, this research makes significant theoretical contributions to the integration of the SES framework and collective action theory with POS governance studies.
Achieving banking industry innovation performance using total quality management: an empirical study
Authors: Ahinful Abraham Ato , Opoku Mensah Abigail , Koomson Samuel , Cobblah Collins , Takyi Godfred , Kwarteng Abdul Hamid
Published: April 2024

Purpose

While scholars have researched the impact of specific total quality management (TQM) aspects on innovation performance (INP), empirical evidence on how the former, as a composite construct, influences the latter is rare. To add, empirical evidence on the mechanism through which TQM passes to affect innovative behaviour (INB) and, then, INP is limited. Essentially, scholars have requested that future research look at the boundary conditions that support the adoption of TQM activities in businesses. Although the banking sector has experienced a number of transformations, there is still a need to raise the standard of service provided to bank customers. This research sheds more light on this subject.

Design/methodology/approach

This research tests the hypotheses in Ahinful et al.’s (2023) conceptual model using responses from 260 top- and middle-level bank managers by applying Smart PLS. Organisational support and team member exchange were used as potential control variables for the mediator, while slack resources and bank size were applied to the target endogenous latent construct. Mediation and moderation effects were estimated using the variance accounted for (VAF) and product indicator approaches, respectively. Sig. level was set at 5%.

Findings

This study found that TQM and INP had a positive and significant connection (ß = 0.303, p = 0.000), and INB partially mediated this connection (VAF = 40.92%). However, government regulation (GOV; ß = 0.055, p = 0.365), market dynamism (MKD; ß = 0.063, p = 0.434), competitive intensity (CMP; ß = 0.069, p = 0.297) and technological turbulence (TUR; ß = 0.011, p = 0.865) all failed to moderate the TQM–INB connection, although the expected positive directions of these moderation relationships were established.

Research limitations/implications

This research provides empirical evidence on the TQM–INP connection, how this connection may be mediated and how the TQM–INB connection may be activated. It also sheds light on novel ways in which service quality in the banking sector may be improved. Upcoming research may explore other control variables in their research. Since the moderating relationships were unsupported, this avenue is open for further research, particularly in other banking settings across the globe.

Practical implications

Practical lessons for bank consultants, regulators, customers, employees and managers are deliberated.

Originality/value

This research is novel. It is the first to test the hypotheses in Ahinful et al.’s (2023) conceptual model. This study advances the theoretical frameworks and existing knowledge within the TQM, innovation and performance management fields.
Rapid responses of bees and butterflies but not birds to targeted urban road verge habitat enhancements
Authors: Brown Julian , Threlfall Caragh G. , Harrison Lee , Baumann Jess , Williams Nicholas S. G.
Published: April 2024

Cities provide opportunities for biodiversity conservation through the design of urban greenspaces as wildlife habitat. A significant proportion of urban public land is narrow linear road verges, though their small size and harsh environmental conditions (e.g. high soil temperatures) may limit their ability to support plants and animals.

We worked with a municipal government in a highly urbanised area to test whether conversion of standard road verges (e.g. lawn) to predominantly native understorey plants (forbs, grasses and shrubs) selected for their abilities to tolerate harsh growing conditions and provide habitat increased the abundance and richness of bees, butterflies and birds. We used a before‐after‐control‐impact experiment and characterised temporal dynamics of biodiversity responses 1 year prior to planting and 4 years post‐planting. We also tested whether traits known to influence species responses to urbanisation (body size and feeding specialisation) mediated responses to road verge plantings.

Bee species richness and abundance increased at experimental plantings in the first post‐planting year and remained stable thereafter despite fluctuations at control sites. Butterfly abundance but not richness increased, and there was no evidence of bird responses to plantings.

Larger bee species, which are known to be most negatively impacted by urbanisation, benefited more from the road verge plantings, while there was no effect of feeding specialisation. Bird and butterfly traits did not mediate responses to plantings.

Synthesis and applications. Road verges comprise a significant proportion of urban green spaces, and our results suggest that despite their small sizes and harsh environmental conditions they can provide habitat for bees and to a lesser extent butterflies. We demonstrated that habitat value can be rapidly enhanced by converting standard road verges to native understorey plants and that these benefits may be greatest for the bee species most negatively impacted by urbanisation. Modifications such as additional plant species or wider verges may be required for urban road verges to provide habitat for a greater range of taxa including birds and butterflies.
Phorophyte preference of an epiphytic orchid (Dendrobium wangliangii) is independent of orchid mycorrhizal fungi that promote seed germination
Authors: Zhao Dake , Mou Zongmin , Zhao Erqiang , Bai Jiamei , Zhang Xue , Yuan Zihan , Wang Ruibin , Wang Qiuxia , Jacquemyn Hans , Ning Chen
Published: April 2024

Epiphytism is an example of an obligate interspecific interaction between plants, where a plant species grows on another plant species for physical support. In epiphytic orchids that rely on suitable host tree species (phorophytes) and mycorrhizal fungi for germination and growth, a distinct preference has been observed for particular host tree species. However, the factors driving this host preference remain unclear.

In this study, we investigated whether mycorrhizal fungi that promote seedling development determine the preference of phorophytes in the epiphytic orchid Dendrobium wangliangii. First, we identified the preferred host tree species for this orchid. Next, in vitro and in situ germination experiments were conducted to identify potential fungi that promote seed germination. Finally, high‐throughput sequencing was used to assess the distribution of these fungi on both colonized host trees and potential host trees, including individual trees of the host species not yet colonized by the orchid and trees of another species growing in the vicinity of a colonized tree.

Dendrobium wangliangii exhibited a preference for trees within the Fagaceae family. Two Fusarium species from the bark of host trees were identified as the primary fungi that promote seed germination. Successful protocorm formation and seedling development were observed exclusively on preferred phorophytes. Fungal community analyses further indicated that both Fusarium spp. occurred on all potential host trees, suggesting that the host preference of this epiphytic orchid is not constrained by the distribution of suitable mycorrhizal fungi.

Synthesis: Regarding the epiphytes that depend on mycorrhizal fungi for successful seedling recruitment, we conclude that strong epiphyte–phorophyte associations do not arise from the limited distribution of mycorrhizal fungi but are more likely the result of other factors inherent in the phorophyte environment.
Preventing multiple resistance above all: New insights for managing fungal adaptation
Authors: Ballu Agathe , Ugazio Claire , Duplaix Clémentine , Noly Alicia , Wullschleger Juerg , Torriani Stefano F. F. , Dérédec Anne , Carpentier Florence , Walker Anne‐Sophie
Published: April 2024

Sustainable crop protection is vital for food security, yet it is under threat due to the adaptation of a diverse and evolving pathogen population. Resistance can be managed by maximising the diversity of selection pressure through dose variation and the spatial and temporal combination of active ingredients. This study explores the interplay between operational drivers for maximising the sustainability of management strategies in relation to the resistance status of fungal populations. We applied an experimental evolution approach to three artificial populations of Zymoseptoria tritici, an economically significant wheat pathogen, each differing in initial resistance status. Our findings reveal that diversified selection pressure curtails the selection of resistance in naïve populations and those with low frequencies of single resistance. Increasing the number of modes of action most effectively delays resistance development, surpassing the increase in the number of fungicides, fungicide choice based on resistance risk, and temporal variation in fungicide exposure. However, this approach favours generalism in the evolved populations. The prior presence of multiple resistant isolates and their subsequent selection in populations override the effects of diversity in management strategies, thereby invalidating any universal ranking. Therefore, the initial resistance composition must be specifically considered in sustainable resistance management to address real‐world field situations.
Systematic analysis of innate immune‐related genes in the silkworm: Application to antiviral research
Authors: Xia Junming , Peng Ruoxuan , Fei Shigang , Awais Mian Muhammad , Lai Wenxuan , Huang Yigui , Wu Hailin , Yu Yue , Liang Lingying , Swevers Luc , Sun Jingchen , Feng Min
Published: April 2024

The silkworm, a crucial model organism of the Lepidoptera, offers an excellent platform for investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying the innate immune response of insects toward pathogens. Over the years, researchers worldwide have identified numerous immune‐related genes in silkworms. However, these identified silkworm immune genes are not well classified and not well known to the scientific community. With the availability of the latest genome data of silkworms and the extensive research on silkworm immunity, it has become imperative to systematically categorize the immune genes of silkworms with different database IDs. In this study, we present a meticulous organization of prevalent immune‐related genes in the domestic silkworm, using the SilkDB 3.0 database as a reliable source for updated gene information. Furthermore, utilizing the available data, we classify the collected immune genes into distinct categories: pattern recognition receptors, classical immune pathways, effector genes and others. In‐depth data analysis has enabled us to predict some potential antiviral genes. Subsequently, we performed antiviral experiments on selected genes, exploring their impact on Bombyx mori nucleopolyhedrovirus replication. The outcomes of this research furnish novel insights into the immune genes of the silkworm, consequently fostering advancements in the field of silkworm immunity research by establishing a comprehensive classification and functional understanding of immune‐related genes in the silkworm. This study contributes to the broader understanding of insect immune responses and opens up new avenues for future investigations in the domain of host–pathogen interactions.
Comprehensive quality evaluation of fermented‐steaming Fructus Aurantii based on chemical composition, flavor characteristics, and intestinal microbial community
Authors: Xu Qijian , Li Qinru , Yang Ting , Long Jiangling , Huang Yingying , Luo Yuting , Fang Yangbing , Chen Xuemei , Lu Xiaomei , Zhao Tingxiu , Ma Enyao , Chen Jiamin , Wang Meiqi , Xia Quan
Published: April 2024

Fructus Aurantii (FA) is an edible and medicinal functional food used worldwide that enhances digestion. Since raw FA (RFA) possesses certain side effects for some patients, processed FA (PFA) is commonly used in clinical practice. This study aimed to establish an objective and comprehensive quality evaluation of the PFA that employed the technique of steaming and fermentation. Combined with the volatile and non‐volatile components, as well as the regulation of gut microbiota, the differentiation between RFA and PFA was analyzed. The results showed that the PFA considerably reduced the contents of flavonoid glycosides while increasing hesperidin‐7‐O‐glucoside and flavonoid aglycones. The electronic nose and GC‐MS (Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry) effectively detected the variation in flavor between RFA and PFA. Correlation analysis revealed that eight volatile components (relative odor activity value [ROAV] ≥ 0.1) played a key role in inducing odor modifications. The original floral and woody notes were subdued due to decreased levels of linalool, sabinene, α‐terpineol, and terpinen‐4‐ol. After processing, more delightful flavors such as lemon and fruity aromas were acquired. Furthermore, gut microbiota analysis indicated a significant increase in beneficial microbial taxa. Particularly, Lactobacillus, Akkermansia, and Blautia exhibited higher abundance following PFA treatment. Conversely, a lower presence of pathogenic bacteria, including Proteobacteria, Flexispira, and Clostridium. This strategy contributes to a comprehensive analysis technique for the quality assessment of FA, providing scientific justifications for processing FA into high‐value products with enhanced health benefits.

Practical Application

This study provided an efficient approach to Fructus Aurantii quality evaluation. The methods of fermentation and steaming showed improved quality and safety.
The influence of tree genus, phylogeny, and richness on the specificity, rarity, and diversity of ectomycorrhizal fungi
Authors: Tedersoo Leho , Drenkhan Rein , Abarenkov Kessy , Anslan Sten , Bahram Mohammad , Bitenieks Kriss , Buegger Franz , Gohar Daniyal , Hagh‐Doust Niloufar , Klavina Darta , Makovskis Kristaps , Zusevica Austra , Pritsch Karin , Padari Allar , Põlme Sergei , Rahimlou Saleh , Rungis Dainis , Mikryukov Vladimir
Published: April 2024

Partner specificity is a well‐documented phenomenon in biotic interactions, yet the factors that determine specificity in plant‐fungal associations remain largely unknown. By utilizing composite soil samples, we identified the predictors that drive partner specificity in both plants and fungi, with a particular focus on ectomycorrhizal associations. Fungal guilds exhibited significant differences in overall partner preference and avoidance, richness, and specificity to specific tree genera. The highest level of specificity was observed in root endophytic and ectomycorrhizal associations, while the lowest was found in arbuscular mycorrhizal associations. The majority of ectomycorrhizal fungal species showed a preference for one of their partner trees, primarily at the plant genus level. Specialist ectomycorrhizal fungi were dominant in belowground communities in terms of species richness and relative abundance. Moreover, all tree genera (and occasionally species) demonstrated a preference for certain fungal groups. Partner specificity was not related to the rarity of fungi or plants or environmental conditions, except for soil pH. Depending on the partner tree genus, specific fungi became more prevalent and relatively more abundant with increasing stand age, tree dominance, and soil pH conditions optimal for the partner tree genus. The richness of partner tree species and increased evenness of ectomycorrhizal fungi in multi‐host communities enhanced the species richness of ectomycorrhizal fungi. However, it was primarily the partner‐generalist fungi that contributed to the high diversity of ectomycorrhizal fungi in mixed forests.
Surgery challenges and postoperative complications of lung cancer after neoadjuvant immunotherapy
Authors: Bai Guangyu , Chen Xiaowei , Peng Yue , Ji Ying , Bie Fenglong , Liu Yang , Yang Zhenlin , Gao Shugeng
Published: April 2024

Background

In China, real‐world data on surgical challenges and postoperative complications after neoadjuvant immunotherapy of lung cancer are limited.

Methods

Patients were retrospectively enrolled from January 2018 to January 2023, and their clinical and pathological characters were subsequently analyzed. Surgical difficulty was categorized into a binary classification according to surgical duration: challenging or routine. Postoperative complications were graded using Clavien–Dindo grades. Logistic regression was used to identify risk factors affecting the duration of surgery and postoperative complications greater than Clavien–Dindo grade 2.

Results

In total, 261 patients were included. Of these, stage III patients accounted for 62.5% (163/261) at initial diagnosis, with 25.3% (66/261) at stage IIIB. Central‐type non‐small‐cell lung cancer accounted for 61.7% (161/261). One hundred and forty patients underwent video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery and lobectomy accounted for 53.3% (139/261) of patients. Surgical time over average duration was defined as challenging surgeries, accounting for 43.7%. The postoperative complications rate of 261 patients was only 22.2%. Smoking history (odds ratio [OR] = 9.96, 95% [CI] 1.15–86.01, p = 0.03), chemoimmunotherapy (OR = 2.89, 95% CI 1.22–6.86, p = 0.02), and conversion to open surgery (OR = 11.3, 95% CI 1.38–92.9, p = 0.02) were identified as independent risk factors for challenging surgeries, while pneumonectomy (OR = 0.36, 95% CI 0.15–0.86, p= 0.02) was a protective factor. Meanwhile, pneumonectomy (OR = 7.51, 95% CI 2.40–23.51, p < 0.01) and challenging surgeries (OR = 5.53, 95% CI 1.50–20.62, p = 0.01) were found to be risk factors for postoperative complications greater than Clavien–Dindo grade 2.

Conclusions

Compared to immunotherapy alone or in combination with apatinib, neoadjuvant chemoimmunotherapy could increase the difficulty of surgery while the incidence of postoperative complications remained acceptable. The conversion to open surgery and pneumonectomy after neoadjuvant immunotherapy should be reduced.
Workforce strategies to address children's mental health and behavioural needs in rural, regional and remote areas: A scoping review
Authors: Hurley John , Longbottom Paula , Bennett Bindi , Yoxall Jacqui , Hutchinson Marie , Foley Kitty‐Rose , Happell Brenda , Parkes Jill , Currey Kate
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Children living in rural, regional and remote locations experience challenges to receiving services for mental illness and challenging behaviours. Additionally, there is a lack of clarity about the workforce characteristics to address the needs of this population.

Objective

To scope the literature on the rural, regional and remote child mental health and behavioural workforce and identify barriers and enabling mechanisms to mental health service provision.

Design

A scoping review utilising the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. A database search was undertaken using Medline, CINAHL, PsycINFO, ProQuest and Scopus to identify papers published 2010–2023. Research articles reporting data on mental health workforce characteristics for children aged under 12 years, in rural, regional or remote locations were reviewed for inclusion.

Findings

Seven hundred and fifty‐four papers were imported into Covidence with 22 studies being retained. Retained studies confirmed that providing services to meet the needs of children's mental health is an international challenge.

Discussion

The thematic analysis of the review findings highlighted four workforce strategies to potentially mitigate some of these challenges. These were: (1) The use of telehealth for clinical services and workforce upskilling; (2) Role shifting where non mental health professionals assumed mental health workforce roles; (3) Service structure strategies, and (4) Indigenous and rural cultural factors.

Conclusion

A range of potential strategies exists to better meet the needs of children with mental health and behavioural issues. Adapting these to specific community contexts through co‐design and production may enhance their efficacy.
Transforming health care delivery: The role of primary health care nurses in rural and remote Australia
Authors: Robinson Tracy , Govan Linda , Bradley Cressida , Rossiter Rachel
Published: April 2024

Aim

This paper describes the policy context and approaches taken to improve access to primary health care in Australia by supporting nurses to deliver improved integrated care meeting community needs.

Context

In Primary Health Care (PHC), the nursing workforce are predominantly employed in the general practice sector. Despite evidence that nurse‐led models of care can bridge traditional treatment silos in the provision of specialised and coordinated care, PHC nurses' scope of practice varies dramatically. Nurse‐led models of care are imperative for rural and remote populations that experience workforce shortages and barriers to accessing health care. Existing barriers include policy constraints, limited organisational structures, education and financing models.

Approach

The Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA) received funding to implement nurse‐led clinics as demonstration projects. The clinics enable PHC nurses to work to their full scope of practice, improve continuity of care and increase access to health care in under serviced locations. We reviewed a range of peer‐reviewed literature, policy documents, grey literature and APNA provided sources, particularly those relevant to rural and remote populations. We argue more focus is needed on how to address variations in the scope of practice of the rural and remote PHC nursing workforce.

Conclusion

Despite growing evidence for the effectiveness of nurse‐led models of care, significant policy and financial barriers continue to inhibit PHC nurses working to their full scope of practice. If their potential to transform health care and increase access to health services is to be realised these barriers must be addressed.
Becoming‐Interdependent: Democratic Praxis In‐Against‐and‐Beyond Capitalism in Agrifood Collectives
Authors: Smessaert Jacob , Feola Giuseppe
Published: April 2024

This paper contributes to debates on autonomous geographies by foregrounding and analysing democratic praxis in two grassroots agrifood collectives to interrogate the ways in which it constitutes a vehicle for postcapitalist transformation. We focus on the negotiation and (re)distribution of power (Case Study 1) and the politicisation of ambiguous human–more‐than‐human entanglements (Case Study 2) and find that the dynamics and frictions these collectives experience can be understood as diverse processes of becoming‐interdependent. Becoming‐interdependent refers to a collective recognition of existing and emerging relationships and dependencies (amongst human people as well as between humans and more‐than‐human actors) and efforts to continuously navigate these. Based on these insights, we discuss tensions between capitalist–postcapitalist realities and making–unmaking in grassroots collectives. We conclude by conceptualising becoming‐interdependent as a deliberate response to the separations and abstractions inscribed in capitalism and by connecting it to debates on strategies for postcapitalist transformation.
Pathophysiological microenvironments in oral candidiasis
Authors: Jørgensen Mette Rose
Published: April 2024

Oral candidiasis (OC), a prevalent opportunistic infection of the oral mucosa, presents a considerable health challenge, particularly in individuals with compromised immune responses, advanced age, and local predisposing conditions. A considerable part of the population carries Candida in the oral cavity, but only few develop OC. Therefore, the pathogenesis of OC may depend on factors other than the attributes of the fungus, such as host factors and other predisposing factors. Mucosal trauma and inflammation compromise epithelial integrity, fostering a conducive environment for fungal invasion. Molecular insights into the immunocompromised state reveal dysregulation in innate and adaptive immunity, creating a permissive environment for Candida proliferation. Detailed examination of Candida species (spp.) and their virulence factors uncovers a nuanced understanding beyond traditional C. albicans focus, which embrace diverse Candida spp. and their strategies, influencing adhesion, invasion, immune evasion, and biofilm formation. Understanding the pathophysiological microenvironments in OC is crucial for the development of targeted therapeutic interventions. This review aims to unravel the diverse pathophysiological microenvironments influencing OC development focusing on microbial, host, and predisposing factors, and considers Candida resistance to antifungal therapy. The comprehensive approach offers a refined perspective on OC, seeking briefly to identify potential therapeutic targets for future effective management.
Sequence stratigraphy and palaeogeography of the Upper Jurassic and Lower Cretaceous in the Eastern Barents Sea
Authors: Mordasova Alina V. , Stoupakova Antonina V. , Suslova Anna A. , Escalona Alejandro V. , Marín Dora , Gilmullina Albina
Published: April 2024

The Upper Jurassic–Lower Cretaceous sedimentary rocks in the Eastern Barents Sea Basin are up to 2 km thick and represent one of the least studied Arctic intervals. Here, for the first time, we present a detailed analysis of 43,000 km of 2D seismic profiles, as well as well‐log and core data from 24 offshore wells with the aim to create a comprehensive sequence stratigraphic framework that can be integrated with the rest of the basin. Results show that (1) seven third‐order sequences and five types of clinoforms can be identified based on integrated seismic and well data. The age of each sequence was established based on published biostratigraphic investigations along with new dinocyst interpretations included in this study; (2) the deep marine basin was gradually filled with sediments coming from north, east and south as a response to HALIP, Canada Basin opening and Cimmerian uplift of Novaya Zemlya, and was preserved only in the south‐western part of the Barents Sea Basin at the end of Early Cretaceous and (3) both Eastern Barents Sea and West Siberia Basin share similarities in sedimentary environments and tectonic setting, though the spatial distribution of clastic reservoirs in Upper Jurassic and Lower Cretaceous mega‐sequence heavily depends on the source areas that require more provenance focused research. The results presented here can be used in further regional exploration in the area and to better understand the geodynamic evolution of the Greater Barents Sea Basin.
Role of autophagy and proteostasis in neurodegenerative diseases: Exploring the therapeutic interventions
Authors: Panwar Surbhi , Uniyal Prerna , Kukreti Neelima , Hashmi Afreen , Verma Shivani , Arya Aanchal , Joshi Gaurav
Published: April 2024

Neurodegenerative disorders are devastating disorders characterized by gradual loss of neurons and cognition or mobility impairment. The common pathological features of these diseases are associated with the accumulation of misfolded or aggregation of proteins. The pivotal roles of autophagy and proteostasis in maintaining cellular health and preventing the accumulation of misfolded proteins, which are associated with neurodegenerative diseases like Huntington's disease (HD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), and Parkinson's disease (PD). This article presents an in‐depth examination of the interplay between autophagy and proteostasis, highlighting how these processes cooperatively contribute to cellular homeostasis and prevent pathogenic protein aggregate accumulation. Furthermore, the review emphasises the potential therapeutic implications of targeting autophagy and proteostasis to mitigate neurodegenerative diseases. While advancements in research hold promise for developing novel treatments, the article also addresses the challenges and complexities associated with modulating these intricate cellular pathways. Ultimately, advancing understanding of the underlying mechanism of autophagy and proteostasis in neurodegenerative disorders provides valuable insights into potential therapeutic avenues and future research directions.
Kaempferol attenuates inflammation in lipopolysaccharide‐induced gallbladder epithelial cells by inhibiting the MAPK/NF‐κB signaling pathway
Authors: Wu Hai‐tao , Lin Xin‐xing , Yang Xiao‐lei , Ding Yong , Wang Jia‐liang , Liu Chen‐lu , Yu Wei‐zhou
Published: April 2024

Kaempferol (KPR), a flavonoid compound found in various plants and foods, has garnered attention for its anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. In preliminary studies, KPR can modulate several signaling pathways involved in inflammation, making it a candidate for treating cholecystitis. This study aimed to explore the effects and mechanisms of KPR on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced human gallbladder epithelial cells (HGBECs). To assess the impact of KPR on HGBECs, the HGBECs were divided into control, KPR, LPS, LPS + KPR, and LPS + UDCA groups. Cell viability and cytotoxicity were evaluated by MTT assay and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay, respectively, and concentrations of KPR (10–200 μM) were tested. LPS‐induced inflammatory responses in HGBECs were to create an in vitro model of cholecystitis. The key inflammatory markers (IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α) levels were quantified using ELISA, The modulation of the MAPK/NF‐κB signaling pathway was measured by western blot using specific antibodies against pathway components (p‐IκBα, IκBα, p‐p65, p65, p‐JNK, JNK, p‐ERK, ERK, p‐p38, and p38). The cell viability and LDH levels in HGBECs were not significantly affected by 50 μM KPR, thus it was selected as the optimal KPR intervention concentration. KPR increased the viability of LPS‐induced HGBECs. Additionally, KPR inhibited the inflammatory factors level (IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α) and protein expression (iNOS and COX‐2) in LPS‐induced HGBECs. Furthermore, KPR reversed LPS‐induced elevation of p‐IκBα/IκBα, p‐p65/p65, p‐JNK/JNK, p‐ERK/ERK, and p‐p38/p38 ratios. KPR attenuates the LPS‐induced inflammatory response in HGBECs, possibly by inhibiting MAPK/NF‐κB signaling.
The dermatopathologist–patient consultation program: A pilot study on patient perspectives and interest
Authors: Lai Jonathan , D'Amiano Nina M. , Jedrych Jaroslaw
Published: April 2024

Background

Despite the integral contribution of dermatopathologists in diagnosing skin lesions, their role often remains unclear to patients, likely due to little face‐to‐face interaction. More healthcare systems have begun introducing patient–pathologist consultation programs that allow patients to discuss results with a pathologist and view tissue under a microscope. To our knowledge, only one study has been published exploring patient perspectives of these programs and no studies exist regarding interest in dermatopathology.

Methods

An anonymous survey was distributed via online support groups for various dermatologic diagnoses.

Results

Patients demonstrated a high level of interest in the dermatopathologist–patient consultation program, with 81.3% expressing at least moderate interest in discussing their diagnosis with a dermatopathologist and 79.2% expressing at least moderate interest in examining their tissue under the microscope with a dermatopathologist. The rationale for interest included various themes: (1) knowledge/understanding, (2) empowerment, (3) emotional support, (4) general interest, and (5) improved trust.

Conclusions

Patients with cancerous and non‐cancerous dermatologic diagnoses demonstrate high interest in a dermatopathologist–patient consultation program. Efforts to pilot this type of program can build upon the infrastructure of current pathologist consultation programs. Future efforts should be taken by hospital leadership, clinicians, and dermatopathologists to determine physician interest and address logistical challenges to the implementation of these programs.
Marine heatwaves redistribute pelagic fishing fleets
Authors: Farchadi Nima , Welch Heather , Braun Camrin D. , Allyn Andrew J. , Bograd Steven J. , Brodie Stephanie , Hazen Elliott L. , Kerney Alex , Lezama‐Ochoa Nerea , Mills Katherine E. , Pugh Dylan , Young‐Morse Riley , Lewison Rebecca L.
Published: April 2024

Marine heatwaves (MHWs) have measurable impacts on marine ecosystems and reliant fisheries and associated communities. However, how MHWs translate to changes in fishing opportunities and the displacement of fishing fleets remains poorly understood. Using fishing vessel tracking data from the automatic identification system (AIS), we developed vessel distribution models for two pelagic fisheries targeting highly migratory species, the U.S. Atlantic longline and Pacific troll fleets, to understand how MHW properties (intensity, size, and duration) influence core fishing grounds and fleet displacement. For both fleets, MHW size had the largest influence on fishing ground area with northern fishing grounds gaining and southern fishing grounds decreasing in area. However, fleet displacement in response to MHWs varied between coasts, as the Atlantic longline fleet displaced farther in southern regions whereas the most northern and southern regions of the Pacific troll fleet shifted farther. Characterizing fishing fleet responses to these anomalous conditions can help identify regional vulnerabilities under future extreme events and aid in supporting climate‐readiness and resilience in pelagic fisheries.
Phenotypes of predator individuals underpin contrasting ecosystem effects
Authors: Rota Thibaut , Jabiol Jérémy , Lamothe Sylvain , Lambrigot Didier , Chauvet Éric , Lecerf Antoine
Published: April 2024

Intraspecific variability has implications for our understanding of ecosystem functioning. Yet, beyond ontogenetic variation in body size, we know little about how phenotypic differences between individuals modulate ecosystem functioning.

We addressed this question empirically within a forested stream, by studying the ecosystem effects triggered by conspecific predatory dragonfly larvae that varied in sex, body shape, behaviour and growth rate. With the help of stream enclosures, we were able to evaluate how different predator phenotypes drive cascading effects on litter‐dwelling prey, fungal biomass and leaf litter decomposition, in uncontrolled natural conditions.

Some individual predators increased leaf litter standing stocks and fungal biomass compared to controls (without dragonfly larvae added), but others had the opposite effect. These contrasting effects were repeatable between the two runs of our experiment. Phenotypic effects were related to the sex and the position of individuals along a life history—behavioural continuum, and were possibly mediated by differential top‐down control of prey, or by inter‐individual variability in non‐consumptive effects.

Several phenotypic dimensions are likely to mediate individual variability in predator effects on ecosystem processes, even in a complex and stochastic natural context such as a forested stream.

We invite further investigations that seek to understand the mechanisms (e.g., non‐consumptive effects) driving individual variability in predator effects on ecosystem processes.