bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Satisfaction of households in surrounding communities of protected areas with economic compensation for wildlife accidents: a case study of Xishuangbanna National Nature Reserve in China
Authors: Zhang Wei , Xie Mengling , Solomon Tamirat , Li Ming , Yin Xinan , Wang Changhai
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the satisfaction of farmers with the compensation policy for wildlife-caused damages and its influencing factors, analyze the current situation of satisfaction with the compensation policy among farmers, identify factors significantly affecting satisfaction, and explore ways to optimize the compensation policy and improve the satisfaction of farmers based on the effects of various influencing factors.

Design/methodology/approach

The Xishuangbanna National Nature Reserve in Yunnan Province, China, is selected as the research area for the study. Through field interviews, 370 valid questionnaires were collected to obtain relevant data on farmers' satisfaction with the compensation policy for wildlife-caused damages. The Oprobit model is utilized to explore the factors influencing farmer satisfaction and to analyze their underlying reasons.

Findings

The study reveals that farmers in the communities surrounding the Xishuangbanna National Nature Reserve generally experience low satisfaction with the compensation policy, particularly concerning satisfaction with compensation amounts, which tends to be dissatisfied on average. Satisfaction with the compensation policy is significantly influenced by individual characteristics and household labor structure, while the degree of human-wildlife conflict, wildlife conservation attitudes and household income structure have insignificant impact. Among individual characteristics, gender, education level, health status, and ethnicity are highly significant. In household labor structure, the number of agricultural laborers, non-agricultural laborers, and household agricultural labor time are highly significant.

Originality/value

Building on the overall satisfaction of farmers with the compensation policy, this study further decomposes policy satisfaction into satisfaction with compensation amounts, coverage, and procedures. It provides more targeted recommendations for enhancing satisfaction with the compensation policy, which can help effectively mitigate human-wildlife conflicts and achieve harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.
Enterprise social networks and the work context: a case study of mandated use
Authors: Ollier-Malaterre Ariane , Redston Marianne
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Enterprise social networks (ESN) that enable faster communications and knowledge sharing at work are an integral part of many workplaces. Although the affordances potency and actualization constructs identify work context as important, few studies to date have teased out how the interactions between ESN’s affordances, users’ goals and the work context drive affordances actualization.

Design/methodology/approach

This research is a case study of a technology multinational that made the ESN Chatter mandatory for all internal communications. We conducted a thematic analysis of 40 h of non-participatory observation, 15 in-depth interviews and eight informal conversations with employees.

Findings

There was considerable variation in how employees across different functional roles perceived affordances’ potencies, leading to differences in the nature and intensity of actualization: while sales and project managers embraced Chatter, technical support participants mostly resisted it; visibility was the central affordance for sales and human resources, but persistence was more important for project managers and association for technical support and billing. An organizational culture of accountability, urgency and efficiency interacted with Chatter’s affordances in a mutually reinforcing way, strengthening accountability and accelerating processes. Collaboration was enhanced but in a mostly coercive way. While sales participants' motivation was boosted, the mandated use of Chatter rendered tasks not inputted in Chatter invisible and created antagonism between departments.

Practical implications

Practitioners should not underestimate the influence of different work contexts and employees' goals when implementing an ESN. Since employees are concerned with managing their workload and how others perceive them, they may resist ESNs that they perceive as creating additional work and they may attempt to manage impressions at the expense of the work climate. Organizations looking to implement an ESN as their main communication tool would greatly benefit from establishing training programs and clear guidelines on positive communication practices across functional roles such as sales and technical support, and between peers.

Originality/value

Our study is one of the first to shed light on the role of the work context, i.e. functional role and organizational culture, in explaining the intensity and specificity of affordance actualization across an organization.
The chronic illness of poverty: the effects of microfinance on the severity of poverty and the cost of its eradication
Authors: Hailat Mahmoud Ali , Alomari Mohammad W. , Bashayreh Ala'
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This paper investigates the impact of microfinance on poverty gap which is the shortfall in income or consumption expenditures below $1.90, $3.20 and $5.50 per day. The paper’s primary goal is to investigate how microloans have impacted the severity of poverty and influenced the cost of poverty eradication in Latin America, empirically evaluate these effects and offer appropriate policy recommendations.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper used panel data for 13 Latin American countries from world bank spanning the period 2001–2019 and Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares model for heterogeneous cointegrated panels. This study used Gross Loan Portfolio per active borrowers, gross domestic product per capita, Gini index, Inflation and Unemployment rate as independent variables and poverty gaps as dependent variables.

Findings

Poverty gaps narrow as the loan per borrower increases, and the degree of effect differs with the poverty line, with the magnitude increasing as the poverty line falls, underscoring microloans as an effective tool in closing poverty gaps and lowering the cost of poverty eradication. Growth of GDP per capita is helpful reducing the poverty gap, especially for the less poor of the poor. Inflation and unemployment have no to little impact on the severe poverty gaps, but they start to matter when the poverty line is $5.5 per day. Finally, income distribution inequality widens the poverty gap regardless of the poverty line used.

Originality/value

This study suggests several implications. For example, Latin American nations need to embrace tangible policies that encourage economic growth while reducing inequalities in income distribution to effectively eradicate poverty. More supportive environment is necessary to increase the effectiveness of microfinance operations, particularly for the poorest populations. Microfinance institutions need to set less stringent conditions for loan accessibility and repayment schedules that are commensurate with different levels of poverty. Finally, strengthening microfinance as a strategic policy to gradually close poverty gaps and reduce the cost of poverty eradication.
How coworker undermining leads justice-sensitive employees to miss deadlines
Authors: De Clercq Dirk , Azeem Muhammad Umer , Haq Inam Ul
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study examines how employees’ exposure to coworker undermining may lead them to miss work deadlines. It offers a particular focus on the mediating role of diminished organization-based self-esteem and the moderating role of justice sensitivity in this connection.

Design/methodology/approach

The research hypotheses are tested with data collected among employees and supervisors who work in various industries.

Findings

Purposeful efforts by coworkers to cause harm translate into an increased propensity to fail to complete work on time, because the focal employees consider themselves unworthy organizational members. The extent to which employees feel upset with unfair treatments invigorates this process.

Practical implications

For employees who are frustrated with coworkers who deliberately compromise their professional functioning, diminished self-worth in relation to work and the subsequent reduced willingness to exhibit timely work efforts might make it more difficult to convince organizational leaders to do something about the negative coworker treatment. Pertinent personal characteristics can serve as a catalyst of this dynamic.

Originality/value

This study contributes to extant human resource management research by detailing the link between coworker undermining and a reduced propensity to finish work on time, pinpointing the roles of two hitherto overlooked factors (organization-based self-esteem and justice sensitivity) in this link.
Modernizing the photogrammetry curriculum by integrating the entrepreneurial mindset, bio-inspired design and STEAM approach
Authors: Elaksher Ahmed , Kotla Bhavana
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Photogrammetry enables scientists and engineers to make accurate and precise measurements from optical images and other patterns of reflected electromagnetic energy. Photogrammetry is taught in surveying, geomatics and similar academic programs. For a long time, it has been observed that there is a lack of diversity and underrepresentation of different groups in the surveying and geomatics workforces for various reasons. Diversity fosters more innovative environments, helps employees be more engaged and boosts productivity rates. Although efforts are being made to solve this problem, most attempts did not significantly improve the diversity issues in this field. To address this problem, we designed a new curriculum for a photogrammetry course, which integrates entrepreneurial mindset (EM), bio-inspired design and Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) into the photogrammetry course for this study.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the participatory action research method, Photovoice, was used to gather data. Students were asked to respond to photovoice and metacognitive reflection prompts to understand student perceptions about the importance of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in photogrammetric mapping. Students were required to respond to each prompt with three pictures and a narrative. These reflections were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Findings

The analysis of the photovoice and metacognitive reflections resulted in six themes: promoting digital literacy, promoting job readiness and awareness, improving perceived learning outcomes, increasing interest in pursuing careers in surveying/geomatics, encouraging learner engagement and increasing awareness of the role of art in map making.

Originality/value

This is the first study conducted at our Hispanic Serving Institution, which specifically designed a curriculum integrating EM, bio-inspired design and STEAM concepts to address diversity issues in surveying and geomatics engineering disciplines.
Designing nickel smelter industry investment competitiveness policy in Indonesia through system dynamics model
Authors: Hanafi Muhammad
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This research is intended to assess the nickel smelter industry’s investment competitiveness in Indonesia and identify ways to improve its competitive advantage for the nation.

Design/methodology/approach

This research uses a sequential mixed-methods approach, expanding on a first qualitative phase with a second quantitative phase. Interviews are used in the qualitative phase to identify the underlying causes of issues and potential solutions to increase the competitiveness of the nickel smelter industry, while a system dynamics (SD) model is used to conduct the quantitative phase. This study uses the idea of a country’s competitive advantage from Porter’s diamond model (PDM). The model was tested and validated using SD simulation resulting in a new policy scenario, which was evaluated in metallurgy expert conferences and high policymaker discussion forums.

Findings

The results reveal the complexity of the nickel smelter industry in Indonesia and conclude that the integrated export duty beneficence policy is the most effective way to boost competitiveness. This policy gives a significant improvement both in the number of smelters and state revenue compared to the current policy. The industry’s investment competitiveness is enhanced by the six factors of the diamond model, with the first three factors being integrated strategy, limited export of excess production and export duty beneficence, while the remaining factors are metal price fluctuation, domestic demand and mineral supply which are related to mining conditions uncertainty.

Research limitations/implications

The research creates a SD model to support Indonesia’s competitive advantage in the smelter industry. Despite limitations like interpretations and distorted semantic analysis, it provides a useful framework for exploring complex industry themes, excluding social factors due to limited data and knowledge requirements.

Practical implications

The findings of this research offer a framework for policymaking by the government to enhance the competitiveness of investments in Indonesia’s nickel smelter industry.

Originality/value

This study delves into Indonesia’s nickel industry competitiveness using PDM. Using a more detailed SD model with quantitative analysis, it goes beyond strategy development to provide a comprehensive approach to the nickel smelter industry.
Innovate plant-based burger patties using defatted sesame cake flour, chickpea flour, coffee silver skin and pomegranate juice as natural colorant: effects on nutritional and acceptability aspect
Authors: El-Anany Ayman , F.M. Ali Rehab , Almujaydil Mona S. , ALgheshairy Reham M. , Alhomaid Raghad , Alharbi Hend F.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the nutrient content and acceptable qualities of plant-based burger patties (PBBP) formulated with chickpea flour, defatted sesame cake (DSC) flour, coffee silver skin and pomegranate juice as colorant.

Design/methodology/approach

The chemical composition, energy value, cholesterol content, amino acid composition, cooking loss, pH, color characteristics and sensory attributes of PBBP were analyzed using official procedures and compared to beef burger. 

Findings

PBBP had a protein value of 16.0 g/100g, which is nearly close to the protein content of the beef burger (18.1 g/100g). The fat content of the PBBP was approximately three times lower than that of the beef burger. The fiber content in PBBP was approximately 23 times as high as that in beef burgers samples (p= 0.05). The raw PBBP samples supplies 178 Kcal/100g, whereas beef burger possessed 259 Kcal/100g. Neither the raw nor the cooked PBBP samples contained any cholesterol. Both the beef and PBBP displayed acceptability scores higher than 7.0, which suggests that PBBP was well accepted.

Originality/value

It is concluded that the PBBP sample exhibited a protein value of 16.0 g/100g, which is comparable to the protein level of beef burgers (18.1 g/100g). The fat level of the PBBP samples was significantly lower than that of the beef burger samples. Uncooked PBBP samples contained significantly higher fiber content compared to beef burger samples. No cholesterol was found in raw or cooked PBBP samples. Overall acceptance scores for both beef and PBBP samples exceeded 7.0, suggesting that the proposed product (PBBP) was received favorably.
Compulsory citizenship behavior, role overload, creativity and service-oriented voluntary behavior: does generational difference have an impact?
Authors: Suhail Aamir , Haq Inam Ul , Azeem Muhammad Umer , Vigoda-Gadot Eran
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study investigates how compulsory citizenship behaviors (CCB) affect employees’ energy and motivation to engage in other voluntary behaviors, such as service-oriented citizenship behavior and creativity. Specifically, we explore how employees’ perceptions of job overload mediate this relationship, based on their generational differences.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed a time-lagged survey design to collect data from 265 frontline employees and their supervisors in Pakistani-based organizations. The data was collected in three rounds, with a three-week gap between each round.

Findings

The findings suggest that role overload, resulting from compulsory citizenship pressure, undermines millennial employees' service-oriented organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) and creativity. However, these negative effects are less salient among non-millennials.

Practical implications

The findings of this study provide valuable insights for managers, emphasizing the importance of exercising caution when imposing excessive citizenship pressures on employees against their will. In addition, organizations and human resource (HR) managers should consider devising policies for formal recognition of voluntary behaviors that contribute to organizational effectiveness.

Originality/value

This study contributes to existing CCB research by unraveling the previously unexplored mediating role of role overload and the contingency role of generational difference in explaining how and when coerced citizenship demands hinder employees’ propensity to engage in service-oriented OCB and creativity.
Genetic diversity of the banana Fusarium wilt pathogen in Cuba and across Latin America and the Caribbean
Authors: Martínez‐de la Parte Einar , Pérez‐Vicente Luis , Torres David E. , van Westerhoven Anouk , Meijer Harold J. G. , Seidl Michael F. , Kema Gert H. J.
Published: May 2024

Fusarium wilt of bananas (FWB) is a severe plant disease that leads to substantial losses in banana production worldwide. It remains a major concern for Cuban banana cultivation. The disease is caused by members of the soil‐borne Fusarium oxysporum species complex. However, the genetic diversity among Fusarium species infecting bananas in Cuba has remained largely unexplored. In our comprehensive survey, we examined symptomatic banana plants across all production zones in the country, collecting 170 Fusarium isolates. Leveraging genotyping‐by‐sequencing and whole‐genome comparisons, we investigated the genetic diversity within these isolates and compared it with a global Fusarium panel. Notably, typical FWB symptoms were observed in Bluggoe cooking bananas and Pisang Awak subgroups across 14 provinces. Our phylogenetic analysis revealed that F. purpurascens, F. phialophorum, and F. tardichlamydosporum are responsible for FWB in Cuba, with F. tardichlamydosporum dominating the population. Furthermore, we identified between five and seven distinct genetic clusters, with F. tardichlamydosporum isolates forming at least two subgroups. This finding underscores the high genetic diversity of Fusarium spp. contributing to FWB in the Americas. Our study sheds light on the population genetic structure and diversity of the FWB pathogen in Cuba and the broader Latin American and Caribbean regions.
Monetary policy and wealth inequality
Authors: Jackson Kieren
Published: May 2024

This thesis examines how monetary policy shocks affect wealth inequality in Australia. I analyse how a monetary policy shock, through asset price responses, affects household balance sheets and wealth inequality measures. I find that contractionary monetary policy reduces the wealth gap, but also disproportionately increases the wealth share of the most affluent Australians. This is driven largely by the response of house prices to an increase in the central bank's policy rate. I use a novel methodology to overcome the data limitations that usually impede studies of wealth inequality, and I produce results with implications for central bankers and policymakers. My results are robust to numerous lag specifications, modelling techniques and identification strategies.
A dynamic model of resource extraction and intensity of competition
Authors: Pegna Tim
Published: May 2024

This paper represents a significant extension of the traditional Cournot extraction game, by introducing the linear supply function strategy space in a novel, dynamic way. A variety of asymmetric cases are considered, including the new firm‐specific competitive strategies. The results highlight the importance of competition in accelerating the supply of critical minerals, which is vital to mitigate climate change, but also present a new sustainability challenge.
Do central banks respond to house price movements? A Bayesian DSGE approach
Authors: Li Longcan
Published: May 2024

This thesis explores whether monetary policy reacts to house price movements, by employing a New Keynesian model with a housing factor and estimated using Bayesian estimation techniques. The primary emphasis of this study is on the United States, with supplementary analyses on central banks in several advanced economies. The principal finding of this thesis reveals that the Federal Reserve responded substantially but episodically to house prices. Furthermore, my investigation indicates that the Reserve Bank of Australia, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand, Bank of England, and the European Central Bank did not incorporate house prices into their policy framework, whereas the Bank of Canada did so episodically. The baseline results remain robust across a range of sensitivity checks.
The impact of unions on the Australian enterprise bargaining framework
Authors: Morton William
Published: May 2024

This paper explores the effects of union involvement in enterprise bargaining agreements (EBAs) on non‐wage outcomes. My research is carried out through using a dataset of all federal EBAs in Australia from 1997 to 2021 and utilises fixed effects regressions. An index was constructed of 10 variables to capture a comprehensive overview of non‐wage outcomes. This paper finds that union involvement in an EBA, on average, is associated with a 0.494 unit increase in the index, or a 13.5% increase on the average index score. Overall, these results provide further insight into union impacts on the labour market within the enterprise bargaining framework.
Evaluating Australia's financial conditions: A comparative analysis and extension of a dynamic factor model index
Authors: Khreish Alexander
Published: May 2024

This article investigates the unique financial conditions in Australia in the wake of COVID‐19, a subject of critical importance given the recent unprecedented economic events such as the fastest rate rises since the 1990s and the presence of persistently high inflation. This study aims to contribute to the literature by examining the speed of interest rate changes and its implications on financial conditions, particularly in an environment characterised by negative real interest rates. The research aims to extend and refine the financial conditions index (FCI) developed by the Reserve Bank of Australia by incorporating a momentum variable to capture the speed of interest rate changes. A dynamic factor model is utilised to investigate 73 data series across nine main categories, constructing the FCI on a quarterly basis. The results indicate that rapid interest rate changes significantly impact financial conditions, holding significant weights within the model, thus requiring careful policy considerations.
Glycomacropeptide: A comprehensive understanding of its major biological characteristics and purification methodologies
Authors: Ebrahimi Alireza , Andishmand Hashem , Huo Chen , Amjadi Sajed , Khezri Sima , Hamishehkar Hamed , Mahmoudzadeh Maryam , Kim Ki Hyun
Published: May 2024

Glycomacropeptide (GMP) is a bioactive peptide derived from whey protein, consisting of 64 amino acids. It is a phenylalanine‐free peptide, making it a beneficial dietary option for individuals dealing with phenylketonuria (PKU). PKU is an inherited metabolic disorder characterized by high levels of phenylalanine in the bloodstream, resulting from a deficiency of phenylalanine dehydrogenase in affected individuals. Consequently, patients with PKU require lifelong adherence to a low‐phenylalanine diet, wherein a significant portion of their protein intake is typically sourced from a phenylalanine‐free amino acid formula. GMP has several nutritional values, numerous bioactivity properties, and therapeutic effects in various inflammatory disorders. Despite all these features, the purification of GMP is an imperative requirement; however, there are no unique methods for achieving this goal. Traditionally, several methods have been used for GMP purification, such as thermal or acid treatment, alcoholic precipitation, ultrafiltration (UF), gel filtration, and membrane separation techniques. However, these methods have poor specificity, and the presence of large amounts of impurities can interfere with the analysis of GMP. More efficient and highly specific GMP purification methods need to be developed. In this review, we have highlighted and summarized the current research progress on the major biological features and purification methodologies associated with GMP, as well as providing an extensive overview of the recent developments in using charged UF membranes for GMP purification and the influential factors.
HIF‐1α‐induced expression of the m6A reader YTHDF1 inhibits the ferroptosis of nucleus pulposus cells by promoting SLC7A11 translation
Authors: Lu Xiao , Li Dachuan , Lin Zhidi , Gao Tian , Gong Zhaoyang , Zhang Yuxuan , Wang Hongli , Xia Xinlei , Lu Feizhou , Song Jian , Xu Guangyu , Jiang Jianyuan , Ma Xiaosheng , Zou Fei
Published: May 2024

The nucleus pulposus is in a hypoxic environment in the human body, and when intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) occurs, the hypoxic environment is disrupted. Nucleus pulposus cell (NPC) ferroptosis is one of the causes of IVDD. N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) and its reader protein YTHDF1 regulate cellular activities by affecting RNA metabolism. However, the regulation of ferroptosis in NPCs by m6A‐modified RNAs under hypoxic conditions has not been as well studied. In this study, through in vitro and in vivo experiments, we explored the underlying mechanism of HIF‐1α and YTHDF1 in regulating ferroptosis in NPCs. The results indicated that the overexpression of HIF‐1α or YTHDF1 suppressed NPC ferroptosis; conversely, the knockdown of HIF‐1α or YTHDF1 increased ferroptosis levels in NPCs. Luciferase reporter assays and chromatin immunoprecipitation demonstrated that HIF‐1α regulated YTHDF1 transcription by directly binding to its promoter region. Polysome profiling results showed that YTHDF1 promoted the translation of SLC7A11 and consequently the expression of the anti‐ferroptosis protein GPX4 by binding to m6A‐modified SLC7A11 mRNA. In conclusion, HIF‐1α‐induced YTHDF1 expression reduces NPC ferroptosis and delays IVDD by promoting SLC7A11 translation in a m6A‐dependent manner.
Management of impacted fetal head at cesarean birth: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Cornthwaite Katie , van der Scheer Jan W. , Kelly Sarah , Schmidt‐Hansen Mia , Burt Jenni , Dixon‐Woods Mary , Draycott Tim , Bahl Rachna
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Despite increasing incidence of impacted fetal head at cesarean birth and associated injury, it is unclear which techniques are most effective for prevention and management. A high quality evidence review in accordance with international reporting standards is currently lacking. To address this gap, we aimed to identify, assess, and synthesize studies comparing techniques to prevent or manage impacted fetal head at cesarean birth prior to or at full cervical dilatation.

Material and Methods

We searched MEDLINE, Emcare, Embase and Cochrane databases up to 1 January 2023 (PROSPERO: CRD420212750016). Included were randomized controlled trials (any size) and non‐randomized comparative studies (n ≥ 30 in each arm) comparing techniques or adjunctive measures to prevent or manage impacted fetal head at cesarean birth. Following screening and data extraction, we assessed risk of bias for individual studies using RoB2 and ROBINS‐I, and certainty of evidence using GRADE. We synthesized data using meta‐analysis where appropriate, including sensitivity analyses excluding data published in potential predatory journals or at risk of retraction.

Results

We identified 24 eligible studies (11 randomized and 13 non‐randomized) including 3558 women, that compared vaginal disimpaction, reverse breech extraction, the Patwardhan method and/or the Fetal Pillow®. GRADE certainty of evidence was low or very low for all 96 outcomes across seven reported comparisons. Pooled analysis mostly showed no or equivocal differences in outcomes across comparisons of techniques. Although some maternal outcomes suggested differences between techniques (eg risk ratio of 3.41 [95% CI: 2.50–4.66] for uterine incision extension with vaginal disimpaction vs. reverse breech extraction), these were based on unreliable pooled estimates given very low GRADE certainty and, in some cases, additional risk of bias introduced by data published in potential predatory journals or at risk of retraction.

Conclusions

The current weaknesses in the evidence base mean that no firm recommendations can be made about the superiority of any one impacted fetal head technique over another, indicating that high quality training is needed across the range of techniques. Future studies to improve the evidence base are urgently required, using a standard definition of impacted fetal head, agreed maternal and neonatal outcome sets for impacted fetal head, and internationally recommended reporting standards.
Time‐dependent change in Reishi (Ganoderma lingzhi) triterpenoids in culture with rumen fluid
Authors: Baba Airi , Ichikawa Natsui , Yamanaka Maho , Wang Dongmei , Isa Akiko , Hirayama Takuji , Shimizu Kuniyoshi , Nakagawa Toshinori
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate the time‐dependent change in Reishi (Ganoderma lingzhi) triterpenoids in rumen fluid. G. lingzhi fruiting bodies were milled and incubated in a tube with rumen fluid for 0, 4, 8, 12, 24, and 48 h at 39°C. After incubation, all the tubes were freeze‐dried and extracted by ethanol. The contents of 18 triterpenoids in the ethanol extract were quantitated by liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS). Based on the results, triterpenoids were categorized into three groups: (1) rapid decrease, indicating reductions of more than 50% within 8 h; (2) mild decrease, with reductions of more than 50% within 48 h; and (3) minimal change, even after 48 h, there was not much change. Ganoderic acid C6, DM, H, K, and TR as well as Ganoderenic acid D were classified in (1); Ganoderic acid LM2 and T‐Q as well as Ganoderiol F in (2); and Ganoderic acid A, B, C1, C2, I, and TN; Gnoderenic acid C; and Ganodermanontriol in (3). In addition, a relationship between chemical structure and metabolic speed was observed in some cases. The results of this study revealed that G. lingzhi triterpenoids are digested and metabolized at different speeds in ruminant fluid.
Care or sabotage? A reflexive thematic analysis of perceived partner support throughout the bariatric surgery journey
Authors: Quirke‐McFarlane Sophia , Ogden Jane
Published: May 2024

Objective

Social support is mostly seen as a positive resource for many health outcomes. However, some research indicates that weight loss may disrupt the equilibrium of relationships and highlights the potential for a more negative form of social support. This qualitative study aimed to explore bariatric surgery (BS) patients' perceptions of the way in which their current or previous partner supported them throughout their BS journey.

Design

BS patients (N = 30) participated in semi‐structured interviews.

Methods

The data were analysed using an inductive approach to reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Four themes were derived from the data. While two themes reflected social support as a form of caring (Mutual Investment and Positive Reinforcements), the other two themes indicated aspects of sabotage (Feeder Behaviours and Negative Reactions to Weight Loss Attempts and Successes). Transcending these themes was the notion of Bariatric Surgery as an Opportunity or Threat to the Relationship.

Conclusions

Some patients perceived social support as a positive resource in BS success involving Mutual Investment from their partners and being offered Positive Reinforcements for changes in their weight status and wellbeing. Some, however, described more negative aspects of support which had undermined their BS goals, either unintentionally or intentionally, through acts of sabotage including Feeder Behaviours and Negative Reactions to Weight Loss Attempts and Successes. Future research should develop interventions to help prepare the partners of those undergoing BS for the changes to both their partner's weight status and the dynamics of their relationship.
Recovery and immune function after low pressure pneumoperitoneum during robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Reijnders‐Boerboom Gabby T. J. A. , Jacobs Lotte M. C. , Helder Leonie S. , Panhuizen Ivo F. , Brouwer Maik P. J. , Albers Kim I. , Loonen Tom , Scheffer Gert Jan , Keijzer Christiaan , van Basten Jean‐Paul A. , Warlé Michiel C.
Published: May 2024

Objective

To compare the effectiveness of low intra‐abdominal pressure (IAP) facilitated by deep neuromuscular block (NMB) to standard practice in improving the quality of recovery, preserving immune function, and enhancing parietal perfusion during robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP).

Patients and Methods

In this blinded, randomised controlled trial, 96 patients were randomised to the experimental group with low IAP (8 mmHg) facilitated by deep NMB (post‐tetanic count 1–2) or the control group with standard IAP (14 mmHg) and moderate NMB (train‐of‐four 1–2). Recovery was measured using the 40‐item Quality of Recovery questionnaire and 36‐item Short‐Form Health survey. Immune function was evaluated by plasma damage‐associated molecular patterns, cytokines, and ex vivo lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated cytokine production. Parietal peritoneum perfusion was measured by analysing the recordings of indocyanine‐green injection.

Results

Quality of recovery was not superior in the experimental group (n = 46) compared to the control group (n = 50). All clinical outcomes, including pain scores, postoperative nausea and vomiting, and hospital stay were similar. There were no significant differences in postoperative plasma concentrations of damage‐associated molecular patterns, cytokines, and ex vivo cytokine production capacity. The use of low IAP resulted in better parietal peritoneum perfusion.

Conclusion

Despite better perfusion of the parietal peritoneum, low IAP facilitated by deep NMB did not improve the quality of recovery or preserve immune function compared to standard practice in patients undergoing RARP.
Fitspiration—Inspiration or threat for adolescent girls? A qualitative investigation on fitness‐related social media content and physical education
Authors: Frühauf Anika , Roth Merle , Rausch Linda , Kopp Martin
Published: May 2024

Several quantitative studies have shown a negative relationship between fitspiration content (appearance‐idealized pictures related to a fit and healthy lifestyle) in social media and mental health. The current study aimed to gain a deeper understanding of fitspiration users by qualitatively assessing their perception of fitspiration content and how it affects their health‐related behaviour and well‐being. A further research question was whether fitspiration as a form of public pedagogy was addressed in participants' physical education (PE) in schools. Thirteen female students from Austria who follow fitspiration content (14–19 years) were interviewed using semi‐structured interviews. Positive effects in health behaviour, such as a higher reported physical activity, exercise motivation and conscious eating (e.g., reducing junk food) were reported. However, participants further described potentially negative consequences on mental and physical health resulting from social comparisons with influencers. As none of the students reported addressing social media fitness content in PE, including or adapting a critical media pedagogy in PE should be considered to enhance awareness of the negative effects of social media but use the positive influence on health behaviour.
Allergen content of popular chemical hair relaxers: A product analysis
Authors: Okeke Chidubem A. V. , Seltzer Janyla A. , De Guzman Christian B. , Tran Joseph H. , Okoye Ginette A. , Byrd Angel S. , Wu Peggy A.
Published: May 2024

Background

Chemical hair relaxers are widely utilized by black women, yet little research exists on the allergens present in these products.

Objective

This study aims to investigate allergen prevalence in the most popular chemical hair relaxers.

Methods

We analysed 41 products from five major retailers, identifying allergens through ingredient lists and comparing them to the 2020 American Contact Dermatitis Group Core allergen series.

Results

The most common contact allergens in chemical relaxers include propylene glycol, cetyl steryl alcohol, fragrance, D/L‐a‐tocopherol, tea tree oil and cocamidopropyl betaine.

Conclusion

Understanding allergen exposure in products used by individuals with textured hair is needed for managing contact dermatitis in diverse populations. This analysis underscores the presence of potential allergens in hair relaxers, emphasizing the importance of dermatologists' awareness and patient scrutiny of ingredient lists.
Capacity for recovery in Bornean orangutan populations when limiting offtake and retaining forest
Authors: Seaman Dave J. I. , Voigt Maria , Ancrenaz Marc , Bocedi Greta , Meijaard Erik , Oram Felicity , Palmer Stephen C. F. , Santika Truly , Sherman Julie , Travis Justin M. J. , Wich Serge , Humle Tatyana , Supriatna Jatna , Struebig Matthew J.
Published: May 2024

Aim

We assess the potential long‐term viability of orangutan populations across Borneo, considering the effects of habitat loss, and various forms of population reduction, including hunting, retaliatory killings and capture and translocation.

Location

The study focused on the island of Borneo, a region that has experienced substantial deforestation over the past four decades, resulting in the degradation and fragmentation of its lowland forests, thereby threatening the island's unique biodiversity, including orangutan populations.

Methods

To evaluate the long‐term viability of orangutan populations, we employed a spatially explicit individual‐based model. This model allowed us to simulate various scenarios, including the impact of removing habitat fragments or individuals from the population.

Results

Our findings revealed that small forest fragments facilitate orangutan movement, thereby increasing the number of individuals settling in non‐natal patches. Crucially, orangutan populations proved highly vulnerable to even small levels of offtake. Annual removal rates exceeding 2% diminished the positive role of small forest patches in sustaining population connectivity, the long‐term viability of populations and prospects for recovery.

Main Conclusions

Our results suggest that orangutan populations in Borneo could potentially recover from recent declines if removal of orangutans by hunting, retaliatory killings, capture and translocation is reduced, and habitat connectivity is maintained within human‐modified landscapes. These findings emphasize the urgent need for conservation strategies that mitigate negative human–wildlife interactions, and/or help preserve habitat and fragments as stepping stones. Measures could include promoting coexistence with local communities and translocating orangutans only in rare cases where no suitable alternative exists, to ensure the long‐term survival of orangutan populations in Borneo.
Real world use of tirzepatide in the treatment of type 2 diabetes in an Arab population
Authors: Buckley Adam , Suliman Sara , Allum Matthew , Mohammed Nagi , Lessan Nader , le Roux Carel W. , Suliman Mohamed
Published: May 2024

Aim

Tirzepatide is a glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide and glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) dual receptor agonist (RA) that reduces glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and weight in patients with type 2 diabetes. We assessed the effectiveness of tirzepatide in real‐world use in an Arab population.

Methods

Review of clinical data from a specialist outpatient diabetes centre; study time points and outcome measures were pre‐specified.

Results

Tirzepatide was initiated in 8945 patients between 24 October 2022 and 31 December 2023. Of these, 3686 individuals reached 40 weeks of follow‐up. At initiation, the mean ± SD age was 54.1 ± 11.5 years, body mass index 34.6 ± 6.0 kg/m2 and HbA1c 7.3 ± 1.5% (56 ± 17 mmol/mol); 2296 (62%) were switched to tirzepatide from another GLP‐RA and 317 (8.6%) reported previous bariatric surgery. The maximum dose dispensed was ≥12.5 mg/week in 1087, 7.5‐10.0 mg/week in 1688 and 2.5‐5.0 mg/week in 911. The mean 40‐week reduction in HbA1c was 0.6 ± 1.2% (8 ± 13 mmol/mol) and the reduction in weight was 4.5 ± 6.9 kg (4.8 ± 7.3%). GLP‐RA‐naïve patients experienced a significantly greater reduction in HbA1c [1.0 ± 1.3% (11 ± 14 mmol/mol) versus 0.5 ± 1.2% (6 ± 13 mmol/mol), p < .0001] and weight (7.2 ± 8.6 vs. 4.2 ± 6.6 kg, p < .0001) compared with previously exposed individuals. Post‐metabolic bariatric surgery patients lost significantly more weight (7.8 ± 9.4 vs. 4.5 ± 7.0 kg, p < .0001). Improvements in blood pressure, lipid profile, and liver transaminases were noted at 40 weeks. Tirzepatide was well tolerated, with 288 (7.8%) of patients discontinuing treatment because of adverse effects, predominantly gastrointestinal.

Conclusion

In real‐world use, tirzepatide significantly reduced HbA1c levels and weight and was well tolerated. Previous GLP‐RA use was associated with significantly lesser HbA1c and weight reduction, and previous metabolic bariatric surgery was associated with greater weight loss.
Insomnia symptoms as a mediator between school connectedness and suicidal ideation in Chinese adolescents: A three‐wave longitudinal model
Authors: Sun Mingze , Scherffius Andrew , Sun Meng , Chen Chunping , Wang Dongfang
Published: May 2024

Aim

School connectedness is related to suicidal ideation (SI) in adolescents. However, little is known about the mediating role of insomnia symptoms in the school connectedness–SI link. This study aimed to examine the longitudinal mediating effect of insomnia symptoms on the relationship between school connectedness and SI as well as the moderating effect of sex using a three‐wave longitudinal design.

Methods

A total of 3110 adolescents completed three online surveys. Data were collected over the course of 1 year, in three waves 6 months apart. Participants completed the School Connectedness Scale, Youth Self‐Rating Insomnia Scale, Self‐rating Idea of Suicide Scale, Beck Depression Inventory and a self‐compiled demographic questionnaire. Linear regressions and mediation analyses were performed to examine the associations between school connectedness, insomnia symptoms and SI.

Results

School connectedness had a significant mediating effect on SI through insomnia symptoms (β
a×b = −.03, 95% confidence interval = −0.04, −0.02) after controlling for demographics and depressive symptoms. Mediation analyses showed that insomnia symptoms accounted for 23.1% of the total effects in the entire sample, with 13.3% in males and 27.3% in females. Sex had no significant moderating effect on the school connectedness–SI link association.

Conclusions

The association between school connectedness and SI appears to be mediated by insomnia symptoms. Assessing and promoting school connectedness, as well as intervening and treating distress associated with insomnia, may have important clinical implications for reducing the risk of SI in adolescents.
Relationship between altered taste and smell with malnutrition among hemodialysis patients
Authors: Özkan İlknur , Taylan Seçil , Kurt Yücel
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Alterations in taste and smell are among the most distressing symptoms experienced by haemodialysis patients. There is limited research on the relationship between these two symptoms and malnutrition in haemodialysis patients. This study aimed to investigate alterations in taste and smell in hemodialysis patients and their relationship with malnutrition.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was carried out with 149 hemodialysis patients at the dialysis centers of three state hospitals. The Taste and Smell Dysfunction Questionnaire was used to assess the changes in patients' taste and smell, and the Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI), as well as the Controlling Nutritional Status (CONUT) tool, were utilized to evaluate their nutritional status.

Findings

A substantial percentage (45.6%) of patients reported an altered sense of smell, and 40.2% reported an altered sense of taste. The aspect of taste that was most abnormal was bitterness (46.7%); 53.0% of the patients were at moderate risk of malnutrition by PNI score, and 14.8% were categorized as malnourished by CONUT score. Malnutrition was related to dialysis vintage: a 1‐year increase in vintage was associated with an increased risk of malnutrition (OR: 1.17, 95% CI 1.02–1.32, p < 0.001). Altered taste was associated with malnutrition: one‐unit increase in the standard deviation of the taste subdimension score was associated with a relative risk of malnutrition (OR: 6.89, 95% CI 1.67–28.39, p < 0.001). A one‐unit increase in the standard deviation of the smell subdimension was associated with relative risk of malnutrition (OR: 1.35, 95% CI 1.10–1.64, p < 0.001).

Discussion

Malnutrition was found in a significantpercentage of hemodialysis patients. Altered taste and smell and the durationof dialysis treatment were significantly associated with malnutrition scores It isrecommended that healthcare professionals regularly assess alterations in tasteand smell in hemodialysis patients, as these alterations may be associated withmalnutrition, and manage these alterations accordingly.