bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantile time−frequency connectedness between energy and agriculture markets: a study during the COVID-19 crisis and the Russo−Ukrainian conflict
Authors: Yousfi Mohamed , Bouzgarrou Houssam
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the volatility connectedness between energy and agricultural commodities across different quantiles and time horizons.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses the quantile frequency connectedness approach on daily data spanning from January 2019 to November 2023.

Findings

The results indicate a sharp increase in total connectedness during the COVID-19 crisis and the Russian−Ukrainian conflict, suggesting that both the crisis and the war contribute to volatility spillover among energy and soft commodities. In fact, the findings suggest that, in the short term, the effects of the pandemic have a greater impact on dynamic risk spillover than those of the war. However, over the long term, the consequences of geopolitical tensions related to the war exert a more significant influence compared to the effects of the pandemic.

Originality/value

This study confirms that energy market prices and oil uncertainty play a significant role in explaining fluctuations in agricultural commodities across diverse timeframes, frequencies and quantiles. Particularly, at extreme quantiles, the results indicate that large shocks have a more pronounced impact than small shocks. These findings hold important implications for policymakers and market participants.
The moderating role of servant leadership in the relationship between organizational structure and performance in fashion retailing
Authors: Fernández-Muiños María , Sánchez-Gómez Roberto , Vázquez-Suárez Luis
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to reveal how the organizational structure (vertical integration vs. franchising) of 308 stores in a Spanish fashion retail franchise chain affects their performance measured through two key performance indicators commonly used in this industry, namely, labor productivity and service quality ratings. We also appraise the moderating role played by the servant leadership of franchisees and managers of company-owned outlets to explore its influence on the relationship between organizational structure and store performance.

Design/methodology/approach

We have used multivariate analyses to study the research questions, with a panel dataset of quarterly store-level data for the period January–December 2022.

Findings

Vertically-integrated stores record lower labor productivity than franchised ones. This impact is lower in stores run by individuals high in servant leadership than in those run by individuals low in it. Franchised outlets also record lower ratings in service quality than vertically-integrated stores, and this negative impact is weaker in stores run by individuals high in servant leadership.

Originality/value

Nothing has thus far been published on the moderating effect of servant leadership in the relationship between the organizational structure of different stores and their outcomes in franchise systems.
“Through the looking glass: envisioning new library technologies” musing on artificial intelligence and accessibility
Authors: Fernandez Peter
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this column is to help equip information professionals to make decisions around artificial intelligence (AI) in the context of accessibility.

Design/methodology/approach

This column explores some of the ways AI may emerge to be a powerful tool for access through the lens of libraries.

Findings

The list of possible futures is endless and hard to predict. Yet in each case, libraries and patrons benefit by staying focused on their core values, while engaging with the technology that provides access to information about the world.

Originality/value

Insights that can inform professionals.
Adherence to the Mediterranean dietary pattern among workers: a systematic review
Authors: Leão Patrícia , Rei Mariana , Rodrigues Sara
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to carry out a systematic review based on the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines to assess the adherence to the Mediterranean dietary pattern (MDP) in workers.

Design/methodology/approach

Three electronic databases were searched up to March 2022. The population was restricted to adults, workers in any professional area, without special diets and no specific health conditions. Their adherence to the MDP was assessed by any a priori method/instrument. Two reviewers independently applied the eligibility criteria and performed the data extraction from each study included. In case of disagreement, a third reviewer was consulted.

Findings

Of the 590 studies found, 46 were included. Most of the studies were carried out in Europe, between the years 2019 and 2022 and were cross-sectional studies. The minimum sample size was 38, and the maximum was 1,74,638 participants. Most studies included both males and females; six included only females and nine only males. The three most prevalent types of workers under study were health professionals, factory workers and firefighters. The most used method for assessing adherence to the MDP was the Mediterranean diet score. Overall, workers showed low or moderate adherence to the MDP.

Originality/value

This systematic review conducted to assess the adherence to the MDP in workers displays an urgent need to improve diet quality in the workplaces.
Exploring the supply chain ambidexterity: a multilevel micro-foundational perspective
Authors: Feizabadi Javad , Alibakhshi Somayeh , Gligor David M.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to introduce a multilevel micro-foundational perspective on supply chain (SC) ambidexterity, grounded in organizational learning and adaptation research. It investigates the interplay of contextual factors, strategic orientation and a bundle of supply chain management practices to foster ambidextrous performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Leveraging a blend of perceptual and objective data and measures, this study explores the intricacies of macro and micro factors at multiple levels, offering empirical support for the research framework. The interrelationships among these factors are scrutinized through three analytical approaches: selection, interaction and system forms of interdependence analysis.

Findings

First, the authors offer empirical support for their conceptual model, illustrating that ambidexterity behavior and outcomes in the SC emanate from intricate interactions between macro and micro factors across various levels. Second, the authors present robust empirical evidence endorsing a system/gestalt form of interdependence analysis in capturing SC ambidexterity and performance. This analytical approach effectively captures the complementarity and contradictory interdependence among the opposing poles of efficiency and responsiveness.

Originality/value

The organizational and SC activity configuration faces numerous paradoxical tensions, such as profitability versus sustainability. This study offers valuable insights into establishing an ambidextrous system capable of navigating and addressing these paradoxical situations.
Doing well by doing right: where is practical wisdom in business?
Authors: Rocha Raysa Geaquinto , Pinheiro Paulo , Kragulj Florian , Nunes Célia , d'Angelo Marcia Juliana
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to empirically examine the unexplored effects of organizational spirituality on the relationship between knowledge sharing and organizational practical wisdom (phronesis). By integrating these constructs, this study seeks to uncover the mechanisms through which organizations can cultivate practical wisdom and foster a more humanistic approach to management. Contributing in this way aids in the advancement of sustainable and ethical business practices. Drawing upon the theoretical foundations of knowledge dynamics and spirituality in the workplace, this research offers novel insights into the enablers of organizational phronesis.

Design/methodology/approach

To explore the influence of spirituality on the relationship between knowledge sharing and practical wisdom, a comprehensive study was conducted. An online survey was conducted to collect answers from 365 workers, ensuring a diverse and representative sample. Partial least squares structural equation modeling to test our hypotheses.

Findings

This research reveals a significant correlation. Knowledge sharing, when supported by spirituality, enhances workplace efficiency and extends its positive impact beyond the workplace. This underscores the importance of embracing organizational spirituality and knowledge sharing to embody organizational phronesis and achieve a humanized strategy. By fostering this, organizations can promote effective decision-making and problem-solving, thereby enhancing their sustainable performance.

Originality/value

This research breaks new ground by empirically investigating and establishing the previously unexplored effects of knowledge sharing and organizational spirituality on organizational phronesis, thereby contributing to the evolving field of organizational behavior, sustainability and business ethics.
Melting heat transfer and entropy analysis of MHD Casson nanofluid flow through a stretchy surface with Joule heating and complete slip
Authors: M.S. Ilango , Pallavarapu Lakshminarayana
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the melting heat transfer of magnetohydrodynamics Casson nanofluid flow with viscous dissipation, radiation, and complete slip effects on a porous stretching sheet. Since, the study of melting heat transfer has mesmerized the attention of scientists and engineers in the sense of its enormous uses in industrial processes, solidification, casting, and technology.

Design/methodology/approach

Bejan number and entropy are analyzed. Exploration of irreversibility is modeled using the thermodynamics second law. There is a discussion on thermophoresis and Brownian diffusion along with first-order chemical reactions. Adequate transformations are introduced to convert the controlling partial differential equations to ordinary differential equations. The three-phase Lobatto solvers (bvp5c) are used to obtain numerical solutions of the transmitted equations.

Findings

The effects of various factors on temperature, velocity, concentration, Bejan number and entropy rate are shown graphically. The velocity field is enhanced by increasing the melting heat parameter, and it declines for growing magnetic parameters. Temperature is decreased for increasing parametric values of melting heat, porous and Casson parameters. A 7% decrease in the Sherwood distribution is seen when we increase the Brownian motion parameter from 0.1 to 0.2. Similarly, an 11% decrement is found in the Nusselt distribution for increasing the Brinkman number from 0.5 to 1.

Originality/value

Entropy and Bejan number experience dual tendencies whenever the melting heat parameter increases. Nusselt number and skin friction experience the opposite behavior for the increasing values of melting parameter. Sherwood number decreases for the increasing values of melting parameter. The velocity profile is directly related to the melting parameter and inversely related to porous and magnetic parameters. Thermophoresis and Brinkman parameters boost the temperature profile and it is controlled by melting and porous parameters. Some notable fields where the present study is used inevitably are silicon wafering, geothermal energy recovery and semiconductor manufacturing.
Bad governance in Australia and how to mitigate it
Authors: Dowding Keith , Taflaga Marija
Published: July 2024

We argue that new public management (NPM) and other processes have led to adverse selection and agency rent problems within the political elite in Australia. The politicisation of the public service and the rise of careerist politicians have led to the de‐separation of what was once two distinct career paths within the political elite. This has changed the decision premise of the advisory system for policy formation and implementation, leading to worse public policy, even policy disasters. We recommend that some of the principles of the Westminster form of government be updated and re‐instituted for political elites within the structures of the Australian government. We canvass four reforms: return to merit appointments and promotion for public servants; a return to tenure for senior public servants; an enhanced push for descriptive representation within the career public service; and a formal role for staffers with centralised appointments, inability to instruct public servants, and restrictions on political and policy roles once leaving public service. These are designed to end the distrust, perceived corruption, and poor governance in the Australian government.

Points for practitioners

Having separate career paths for non‐elected policy elites and elected elites is vital for information transmission and good governance. Each should operate with separate decision premises and work together in creative tension.

NPM practices have weakened the separate career paths of public servants and politicians, leading to adverse selection and agency rent for both.

The Westminster system has a logic that has been diluted or weakened within the Australian government, leading to poorer policy and policy disasters.

The paper presents four areas for reform.
Comparison of chemical compositions and aroma characteristics of walnut oil prepared by different roasting processes
Authors: Lu Xinzhu , Gao Peng , Lv Yaru , Zhang Yu , Wang Fengjun
Published: July 2024

Walnut oil is an edible oil with high nutritional value, and the roasting process influences its quality and flavor. This study aimed to investigate the effects of roasting on the fatty acid composition, bioactive compounds (tocopherols, polyphenols, and phytosterols), and antioxidant capacity of walnut oil. Additionally, the aroma compounds and sensory characteristics were evaluated to comprehensively assess the variations in walnut oil after roasting. Roasting resulted in no notable impact on the fatty acid composition of walnut oil but increased the content of tocopherols and polyphenols in walnut oil, increasing its antioxidant capacity. Heavy roasting (160°C/20 min) reduced the phytosterol content in walnut oil by 2.3%. In total, 146 volatile compounds were detected in both cold‐pressed and roasted walnut oil using headspace solid‐phase microextraction‐gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, and 32 key aroma compounds were identified. Aromatic aldehydes, aliphatic aldehydes, and heterocyclic compounds significantly contributed to fragrant walnut oil. Furthermore, the principal component analysis based on quality characteristics and sensory evaluation indicated that moderate roasting (130°C/20 min, 130°C/30 min, and 160°C/10 min) provided walnut oil with a sweet, nutty, and roasted aroma, as well as high levels of linoleic acid, phytosterols, and γ‐tocopherol. Although heavy roasting (160°C/15 min and 160°C/20 min) enhanced the antioxidant capacities of walnut oils due to high levels of polyphenols, the oils exhibited an unpleasant burnt aroma. This study showed that roasting promoted the quality and flavor of walnut oil, and moderate conditions endowed walnut oil with a characteristic‐rich flavor while maintaining excellent quality.
Role of the health literacy assessment in healthcare: Content validation of “Health Literacy Behaviour” nursing outcome
Authors: Correro‐Bermejo Alba , Bas‐Sarmiento Pilar , Romero‐Sánchez José Manuel , Paloma‐Castro Olga , Poza‐Méndez Miriam , Fernández‐Gutiérrez Martina
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To validate the content of the “Health Literacy Behaviour” nursing outcome (NO).

Methods

A content validation study was conducted during 2022. Each indicator was included in the NO, and its response levels were operationally defined. The initial version of each indicator and its response levels were refined and validated through the Delphi method. A panel of health literacy (HL) and nursing taxonomies experts evaluated the content through two content validity indicators. The content validity of the NO and each index was determined by calculating the content validity index (CVI). A qualitative analysis of the recommendations provided by the experts was carried out to improve the understanding of the indicators and their levels.

Findings

A total of 108 experts participated in this study. Mostly females with more than 10 years of professional experience. The results demonstrated a high CVI of the indicators and the NO “Health Literacy Behaviour.” All indicators achieved excellent (CVI ≥ 0.80) relevance and clarity. The CVI universal average method (CVI‐p) of the NO achieved an excellent result of 0.90.

Conclusions

The indicators included in the NO “Health Literacy Behaviour” have content validity.

Implications for nursing practice

These findings provide evidence‐based indicators to measure the patient's actions to obtain, process, and understand information about health and disease, interact with the health system, and make informed health decisions. The validation of this NO would identify populations with low HL, allowing the health of this community to be promoted. Health literacy should be a priority objective of health management and policies.
Methoxyflurane analgesia for outpatient hysteroscopy: A double‐blind, randomised, controlled trial
Authors: Twidale Emily K. , Neutens Sofie , Hynt Lyn , Dudley Narena , Streeton Catherine
Published: July 2024

Background

Despite clinical and economic benefits, pain during outpatient hysteroscopy (OPH) remains a barrier to use. There is a lack of evidence to support routine use of one analgesic over another versus no analgesic.

Aims

To study the efficacy and safety of methoxyflurane analgesia during OPH.

Materials and Methods

A single‐centre, randomised, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled experiment was performed; 90 patients were randomly assigned (1:1). Participants allocated to the treatment group (cases) received 3 mL of methoxyflurane through an inhaler. The control group received a placebo. The primary outcome was a mean difference in pain, via a change in Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score from baseline at diagnostic hysteroscopy. Secondary outcomes were a mean difference in VAS score with any subsequent operative procedures; a mean difference in VAS score at 15 min post‐procedure; participant and clinician‐reported adverse effects and events; and participant‐reported procedure acceptability, adjuvant nitrous oxide (N2O2) use and a composite of ‘distress’.

Results

During diagnostic hysteroscopy, there was a mean difference of 11.5 mm/100 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.08–22.95), P = 0.05, with the lower score in the cases, compared with controls. During subsequent operative procedures, there was a mean difference of 15 mm/100 (95% CI 2.71–28.22), P = 0.02, with the lower pain score in the cases, compared with controls. There was no significant difference in pain 15 min post‐procedure, participant‐ and clinician‐ reported adverse effects and events, procedure acceptability and the ‘distress’ composite.

Conclusions

Methoxyflurane significantly reduced pain during OPH compared with placebo, for diagnostic as well as operative procedures. Furthermore, methoxyflurane was well tolerated, with no adverse events.
Indigenous Natures and the Anthropocene: Racial Capitalism, Violent Materialities, and the Colonial Politics of Representation
Authors: Anthias Penelope , Asher Kiran
Published: July 2024

Indigenous Peoples are gaining renewed attention within both policy and academia, as examples of “resilience” and of non‐humanist, non‐modern ways of relating to nature, which might, it is hoped, provide tools to withstand the socio‐ecological crises associated with “the Anthropocene”. This paper argues that such representations obscure both their own colonial foundations and the ongoing forms of racialised dispossession and ecocide faced by Indigenous Peoples today. Instead, we conceptualise indigeneity and nature as deeply entangled categories that are co‐produced with capitalist modernity. Engaging anti‐colonial and Marxist scholarship, and drawing on our long‐term research with Indigenous movements in Bolivia and Colombia, we highlight how discursive and material assemblages of indigeneity and nature are dialectically linked to capitalist processes of dispossession and subaltern efforts to contest these. We further highlight how romanticised accounts of non‐modern nature‐cultures are unsettled by the violent world‐making of colonial capitalism and the unequal burdens placed on Indigenous territories and bodies. We use an ethnographic vignette from the Bolivian Chaco to illustrate the messy everyday ways in which real Indigenous people navigate, contest, endure, and make do amidst the contradictory processes of racialisation, dispossession, and conditional recognition that characterise their positioning within colonial capitalism. In doing so, we show how thinking from the sacrifice zones of extractive capitalism unsettles contemporary debates on decolonising nature in the Anthropocene.
FOXM1/DEPDC1 feedback loop promotes hepatocarcinogenesis and represents promising targets for cancer therapy
Authors: Wei Teng , Zeng Chenquan , Li Qineng , Xiao Zhiyuan , Zhang Leisheng , Zhang Qiangnu , Ren Lili
Published: July 2024

Forkhead box M1 (FOXM1) is a key regulator of mitosis and is identified as an oncogene involved in several kinds of human malignancies. However, how it induces carcinogenesis and related therapeutic approaches remains not fully understood. In this study, we aimed to identify a regulatory axis involving FOXM1 and its target gene DEP domain containing 1 (DEPDC1) and investigate their biological functions. FOXM1 bound to the promoter and transcriptionally induced DEPDC1 expression, in turn, DEPDC1 physically interacted with FOXM1, promoted its nuclear translocation, and reinforced its transcriptional activities. The FOXM1/DEPDC1 axis was indispensable for cancer cells, as evidenced by the fact that DEPDC1 rescued cell growth inhibition caused by FOXM1 knockdown, and silencing DEPDC1 efficiently attenuated tumor growth in a murine hepatocellular carcinoma model. Furthermore, strong positive associations between FOXM1/DEPDC1 axis and poor clinical outcome were observed in human hepatocellular carcinoma samples, further indicating their significance for hepatocarcinogenesis. Finally, we attempted to exploit immunotherapy approaches to target the FOXM1/DEPDC1 axis. Several HLA‐A24:02‐restricted T‐cell epitopes targeting FOXM1 or DEPDC1 were identified through bioinformatic analysis. Then, T cell receptor (TCR)‐engineered T cells targeting FOXM1262‐270 or DEPDC1294‐302 were successfully established and proved to efficiently eradicate tumor cells. Our findings highlight the significance of the FOXM1/DEPDC1 axis in the process of oncogenesis and indicate their potential as immunotherapy targets.
Clinically amyopathic dermatomyositis: Clinical, laboratory, and histopathological features
Authors: Wang Xintong , De Moll Ellen , Koschitzky Merav , Shihab Nahla , Khattri Saakshi , Phelps Robert
Published: July 2024

Background

Despite the advancements in the categorization of clinically amyopathic dermatomyositis (CADM), the classification and diagnosis of its subtypes are still challenging. The aim of our study was to describe the clinicopathological features of CADM and assess the differences between amyopathic dermatomyositis (ADM) and hypomyopathic dermatomyositis (HDM).

Methods

This retrospective study included 43 patients with CADM diagnosed at our institution from 2016 to 2020. Patients were subclassed into ADM (n = 30) and HDM (n = 13) groups to assess their clinicopathological differences.

Results

All included patients had characteristic cutaneous manifestations of dermatomyositis; 67.4% had myositis‐associated auto‐antibodies, including ANA (32.6%), RNP (14.0%), anti‐Ro52 (9.3%), anti‐p155/140 (7.0%), rheumatoid factor (7.0%), anti‐NXP‐2 (4.7%), anti‐MDA5 (2.3%), and anti‐Jo‐1 (2.3%) antibodies. One patient had associated interstitial lung disease, and another patient had oral squamous cell carcinoma. The histopathological findings included mucin deposition (69.8%), telangiectasia (65.1%), lymphocytic infiltrate (48.8%), vacuolar interface dermatitis (46.5%), and epidermal atrophy (14.0%). Compared to patients with HDM, ADM patients were significantly less likely to have epidermal atrophy, 3.3% versus 38.5% (p = 0.006), and more likely to have mucin deposition, 80.0% versus 46.2% (p = 0.028).

Conclusion

We described the clinicopathological features of CADM and highlighted the distinctions between ADM and HDM dermatopathologic findings. This information may prove helpful in diagnosing ambiguous lesions.
Accessing supports due to others' harmful drinking
Authors: Rintala Jade , Smit Koen , Room Robin , Jiang Heng , Laslett Anne‐Marie
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Alcohol's harm to others (AHTO) refers to harms caused to those other than the drinker. The current paper estimates the prevalence of formal and informal supports sought due to AHTO and examines whether the type of support accessed varies by sociodemographic, economic and harm‐related characteristics.

Methods

An Australian sample of 2574 people completed the 2021 AHTO survey, out of which 888 perceived they experienced harm from another's drinking. Prevalence of accessing services and supports was measured. Additionally, several sociodemographic factors, economic factors and harm‐related factors were included in multivariable logistic regression models predicting service/support use. Specifically, four models were constructed probing use of any service/support, use of police, use of counselling services and use of family/friend support.

Results

Of the survey sample, 12.4% accessed any support/service. Seeking support from family and/or friends was most common, followed by police, counselling, healthcare services and being admitted to hospital. Women had higher odds of accessing counselling and family/friend support. Respondents with a higher education level and two or more financial stressors had higher odds of accessing police and counselling. Respondents harmed by a stranger had higher odds of accessing police, whereas respondents harmed by someone they know had higher odds of seeking support from family/friends. Experiencing more severe harm was associated with greater odds of accessing any support.

Discussion and Conclusions

Several sociodemographic and economic factors were associated with accessing different supports. These findings may inform service development, interventions and policy changes for people affected by others' drinking.
Climatic fluctuations, geographic features, and evolutionary forces: Shaping high genomic diversity and local adaptation in Muntiacus reevesi
Authors: Chen Guotao , Sun Zhonglou , Shi Wenbo , Wang Hui , Shi Guohui , Hu Yibo , Fan Huizhong , Wu Qi , Zhang Baowei
Published: July 2024

Aim

Genetic diversity is crucial for species adaptability. Understanding the mechanisms behind its formation and maintenance is essential for effective conservation. Recent studies have demonstrated that despite experiencing severe population bottlenecks, Muntiacus reevesi retains high genetic diversity and continues its northward migration, indicative of ongoing adaptive evolution. However, our comprehension of this phenomenon remains incomplete. The objective of this study is to explore the mechanisms underlying the formation of high genetic diversity and the genomic characteristics associated with local adaptation, using M. reevesi as a case study.

Location

Southern China.

Methods

We analysed resequencing data from 62 genomes and identified 29,124,081 high‐quality single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). We used population genetics, demographic history, population differentiation, gene flow analysis software, and genotype‐environment association (GEA) models to assess the factors that have contributed to high genetic diversity and environmental adaptability in the historical climate and geographical context.

Results

The study identified that during Pleistocene climatic fluctuations, M. reevesi diverged into eastern (DB and WJW populations) and western lineages (WL, BA, and QL populations), all displayed high genetic diversity. Historically, M. reevesi maintained large effective populations, but contemporary human‐induced threats have led to a significant decline. Population differentiation models suggest distinct expansion pathways for eastern and western lineages, resulting in population admixture, with mountain corridors facilitating gene flow and maintaining high genetic diversity. Additionally, environmental‐genotype analysis revealed local adaptation in the QL‐BA population, highlighting candidate adaptive genes (ME3 and PRKG1) potentially linked to cold adaptation and foraging behaviour.

Conclusion

This study enhances our understanding of the mechanisms behind the high genetic diversity and environmental adaptability of M. reevesi, offering insights into how bottleneck populations maintain diversity, crucial for biogeographic research and conservation strategies for similar species.
Does use of formal and informal credit reduce poverty in rural Mexico?
Authors: van Gameren Edwin , García‐Mora Fernando , Mora‐Rivera Jorge
Published: July 2024

Motivation

Despite efforts to reduce poverty, both income and multidimensional poverty continue to be high in Mexico, especially in rural areas. Most studies concerned with the effect of credit use on poverty analyse formal credit, but little is known about the impacts of different types of credit on poverty.

Purpose

We investigate the impacts of the use of formal credit and informal loans obtained (primarily) for productive and investment purposes on multidimensional and income poverty of rural households in Mexico.

Approach and methods

We use data from the 2013 and 2015 CONEVAL Surveys of Rural Households in Mexico, representative of rural communities with fewer than 2,500 inhabitants, to investigate the impact of credit on poverty. We apply inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) to account for differences between users of formal credit, users of informal loans, and non‐users of credit.

Findings

Both formal and informal credit usage reduce poverty in rural Mexico, generally with clearer impacts on moderate rather than extreme poverty. Informal credit appears to have largely reached households that could most benefit from it. Broader access to formal credit would potentially further reduce poverty.

Policy implications

Public policies to reduce rural poverty should promote a greater access to the formal financial sector. Including vulnerable low‐income rural households in formal finance should be accompanied by financial education.
Assessment of cancer therapy‐related cardiac dysfunction in breast cancer women using a new speckle tracking echocardiography index: The GAVS
Authors: Di Lisi Daniela , Madaudo Cristina , Ortello Antonella , Rubino Luigi , Scelfo Domenico , Sinagra Francesco Paolo , Comparato Francesco , Triolo Oreste Fabio , Rossetto Ludovico , Galassi Alfredo Ruggero , Novo Giuseppina
Published: July 2024

Background

Recently, peak atrial longitudinal strain (PALS) has emerged as a possible predictor of Cancer therapy‐related cardiac dysfunction (CTRCD) in cancer patients (CP), in addition to left ventricular global longitudinal strain (GLS). Thus, considering the link between left atrium and left ventricle, the aim of this study was to assess the global atrio‐ventricular strain (GAVS) in CP, to detect early cardiotoxicity.

Methods

A prospective study was carried out enrolling 131 breast cancer women (mean age 51.4 ± 10.4 years) receiving anti‐cancer treatment. Clinical and echocardiographic evaluation was performed at baseline (T0), 3 (T1), 6 (T2) and 12 months (T3) after starting treatment. CTRCD was defined according to the 2022 ESC Cardio‐Oncology guidelines.

Results

Forty‐four patients developed CTRCD (3 moderate and 41 mild CTRCD group A) and 87 patients did not (group B). In group A, significant changes in GLS, PALS, GAVS, LASi (left atrial stiffness index) and LVEF/GLS occurred earlier than LVEF, that reduced significantly only at T3 (p‐value < .05). Significant changes in LASi, PALS and GAVS occurred even in group B but reduction in GAVS (−21% vs. −5%) and PALS (−24% vs. −12%) was significantly greater in group A compared to group B (p‐value = .04).

Conclusions

Our study confirms high sensitivity of speckle tracking echocardiography in detecting subclinical myocardial damage in CP and the usefulness of a multiparametric echocardiographic evaluation including PALS and GLS (GAVS) for having a global evaluation of the phenomenon cardiotoxicity.
Comparative in‐vitro analysis of amniotic Fluid's efficacy in sustaining viability and regulating apoptosis of periodontal fibroblasts versus HBSS
Authors: Harjai Gunica , Shanbhog Raghavendra
Published: July 2024

Background

Tooth avulsion necessitates swift replantation, for which the preservation of periodontal ligament (PDL) cell viability is paramount. Various storage media have been explored, yet a comparison between amniotic fluid (AF) obtained at different gestational stages (amniocentesis and full‐term) and HBSS is lacking.

Aim

This study aims to evaluate AF (amniocentesis and full‐term) against HBSS in sustaining PDL cell viability and regulating apoptosis at different time points.

Material and Methods

Periodontal fibroblasts cultured in α‐MEM were treated with 100% AF (amniocentesis), 100% AF (full‐term), and HBSS, incubated for 1, 3, 24, and 48 h at 37°C, and assessed using the MTT assay for viability and AO/EB staining for apoptosis, which was analyzed via fluorescent microscopy after 24 h. Statistical analysis was conducted using one‐way ANOVA, multivariate ANOVA, and post hoc Tukey's multiple comparison tests (p < .05).

Results

Amniotic fluid (amniocentesis) exhibited the highest optical density (OD), which implies the highest cell viability across time intervals, followed by AF (full‐term) and HBSS. While HBSS maintained PDL morphology, both AF groups showed altered morphology. No cell death was observed after 24 h.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of this study, both AF groups showed the potential to sustain PDL cell viability after 1, 3, 24, and 48 h of storage. However, further investigation is warranted regarding their suitability as storage media.
Like coloured pencils in a pencil case: A portray of the connections between learning style preferences, needs satisfaction, academic motivation, and psychological well‐being from the window of self‐determination theory
Authors: Namaziandost Ehsan , Kargar Behbahani Hossein , Heydarnejad Tahereh
Published: July 2024

Self‐determination theory (SDT) has been the subject of pioneering studies in recent years. SDT is centered on the basic psychological needs of autonomy, competence, and relatedness and their necessary role in self‐determined motivation, well‐being, and growth. The objective of the present research was to investigate the relationships between learning style preference, motivational regulation, and psychological well‐being of 417 EFL students at the intermediate level in private schools in three provinces in Iran. The researchers collected the data via electronic surveys using the Perceptual Learning Style Preference Questionnaire, Academic Motivation (AM) Scale, Basic Psychological Needs Satisfaction Measure, and Psychological Well‐Being (PWB) Scale. The quantitative analyses using structural equation modelling showed positive correlations between the learning style preferences and AM and the PWB. Moreover, the satisfaction level with needs was a significant factor in predicting AM and PWB scores. The study highlights the importance of recognizing and accommodating diverse learning styles in educational settings and the significance of needs satisfaction in fostering intrinsic motivation and overall well‐being among EFL learners. These findings emphasize the need for practitioners to target and tailor their pedagogical strategies to meet the needs of their learners and create a learning environment that fosters the three psychological needs as determined by SDT.
Experience and naturalism
Authors: Zweber Adam
Published: July 2024

Much of contemporary metaethics revolves around the issue of “naturalism.” However, there is little agreement on what “naturalism” is or why it should be of significance. In this paper, I aim to rectify this situation by providing a set of necessary conditions on what positions ought to count as “naturalistic.” A metaethical view should count as an instance of naturalism only if it claims that there can be evidence for normative claims that is both public and spatiotemporal. I argue that, unlike other characterizations of “naturalism,” this view shows a clear difference between many metaethical positions and the sciences. The view thereby renders debates about naturalism philosophically significant: the division between naturalists and non‐naturalists is that between philosophers who hold that ethics is relevantly similar to the sciences and those who deny this.
Forecasting potential invaders to prevent future biological invasions worldwide
Authors: Pili Arman N. , Leroy Boris , Measey John G. , Farquhar Jules E. , Toomes Adam , Cassey Phillip , Chekunov Sebastian , Grenié Matthias , van Winkel Dylan , Maria Lisa , Diesmos Mae Lowe L. , Diesmos Arvin C. , Zurell Damaris , Courchamp Franck , Chapple David G.
Published: July 2024

The ever‐increasing and expanding globalisation of trade and transport underpins the escalating global problem of biological invasions. Developing biosecurity infrastructures is crucial to anticipate and prevent the transport and introduction of invasive alien species. Still, robust and defensible forecasts of potential invaders are rare, especially for species without known invasion history. Here, we aim to support decision‐making by developing a quantitative invasion risk assessment tool based on invasion syndromes (i.e., generalising typical attributes of invasive alien species). We implemented a workflow based on ‘Multiple Imputation with Chain Equation’ to estimate invasion syndromes from imputed datasets of species' life‐history and ecological traits and macroecological patterns. Importantly, our models disentangle the factors explaining (i) transport and introduction and (ii) establishment. We showcase our tool by modelling the invasion syndromes of 466 amphibians and reptile species with invasion history. Then, we project these models to amphibians and reptiles worldwide (16,236 species [c.76% global coverage]) to identify species with a risk of being unintentionally transported and introduced, and risk of establishing alien populations. Our invasion syndrome models showed high predictive accuracy with a good balance between specificity and generality. Unintentionally transported and introduced species tend to be common and thrive well in human‐disturbed habitats. In contrast, those with established alien populations tend to be large‐sized, are habitat generalists, thrive well in human‐disturbed habitats, and have large native geographic ranges. We forecast that 160 amphibians and reptiles without known invasion history could be unintentionally transported and introduced in the future. Among them, 57 species have a high risk of establishing alien populations. Our reliable, reproducible, transferable, statistically robust and scientifically defensible quantitative invasion risk assessment tool is a significant new addition to the suite of decision‐support tools needed for developing a future‐proof preventative biosecurity globally.
Superior comprehensive performance CaO‐based core achieved by optimizing particle gradation via orthogonal experiments
Authors: Huang Jiefei , Liu Fuchu , Han Guangchao , Fan Zitian
Published: July 2024

The effect of CaCO3 particle size on the viscosity of slurry, phase formation, microstructural evolution, and performances of the water‐soluble CaO‐based ceramic core sintered at different temperatures was systematically investigated and discussed, and the particle gradation orthogonal experiments were used to adjust flexural strength, water‐soluble rate, shrinkage rate, apparent porosity, and hygroscopicity rate. The results showed that the finer particle size increased the effective contact area between CaO and SiO2, which promoted the generation of CaO–SiO2 system phase and the dense microstructure in the sintered CaO‐based cores. The higher sintering resulted in dense microstructure. The optimal gradation scheme included 28 wt.%, 56 wt.%, and 16 wt.% CaCO3 powder with D50 = 11.0 µm, 6.17 µm, and 4.62 µm, respectively, and the resulting flexural strength was 9.57 MPa, water‐soluble rate was 65.37 g/h in 60°C water, shrinkage rate was 8.62%, porosity rate was 38.85%, presenting a well‐balanced comprehensive performance, which is significant for the complex internal castings.
Nutritional composition, protein digestibility and consumer acceptability of sorghum‐based mahewu enriched with Moringa oleifera leaf powder
Authors: Mafukata Zwivhuya Petunia , Bamidele Oluwaseun Peter , Ramashia Shonisani Eugenia , Mashau Mpho Edward
Published: July 2024

In this study, the effect of different levels (1%–5%) of whole and defatted Moringa oleifera leaf powder (MOLP) on the nutritional composition, physicochemical properties, protein digestibility and consumer acceptability of sorghum mahewu was investigated. The MOLP was boiled and added to the fermented sorghum mahewu. The results demonstrated that sorghum mahewu enriched with whole and defatted MOLP had higher amounts (P < 0.05) of protein, ash and fibre content compared to the control sample. Moreover, minerals, amino acid contents and protein digestibility of the enriched sorghum mahewu samples were significantly improved compared to the control sample. The pH decreased with an increasing proportion of MOLP ranging from 4.36 to 4.09 (mahewu enriched with whole MOLP) and from 4.36 to 4.17 (mahewu enriched with defatted MOLP). Sorghum mahewu samples enriched with whole and defatted MOLP had higher contents of total titratable acid compared to the control sample, while the total soluble solids and viscosity decreased. In terms of colour profile, the b*, and chroma values of sorghum mahewu increased with an increasing percentage of whole and defatted MOLP while L* and a* values decreased. Regarding overall liking, sorghum mahewu enriched with 1% whole and defatted MOLP did not differ (P > 0.05) from the control sample. Therefore, sorghum mahewu must be enriched with low percentages of MOLP to improve its acceptance among consumers. These findings suggest that incorporating medicinal plants such as boiled MOLP to basic foods produced from sorghum flour could improve their nutritional profile and protein digestibility.
Incidence of Hospitalization due to Influenza‐Associated Severe Acute Respiratory Infection During 2010–2019 in Bangladesh
Authors: Aleem Mohammad Abdul , DeBord Katherine Roguski , Ahmed Makhdum , Rahman Mohammed Ziaur , Rahman Mustafizur , Islam Md Ariful , Alamgir A. S. M. , Salimuzzaman M. , Shirin Tahmina , Chisti Mohammod Jobayer , Rahman Mahmudur , Azziz‐Baumgartner Eduardo , Chowdhury Fahmida , Iuliano A. Danielle
Published: July 2024

Background

Global influenza‐associated acute respiratory infections contribute to 3–5 million severe illnesses requiring hospitalization annually, with 90% of hospitalizations occurring among children < 5 years in developing countries. In Bangladesh, the inadequate availability of nationally representative, robust estimates of influenza‐associated hospitalizations limits allocation of resources for prevention and control measures.

Methods

This study used data from the hospital‐based influenza surveillance (HBIS) system in Bangladesh from 2010 to 2019 and healthcare utilization surveys to determine hospital utilization patterns in the catchment area. We estimated annual influenza‐associated hospitalization numbers and rates for all age groups in Bangladesh using WHO methods, adjusted for a 6‐day‐a‐week enrollment schedule, selective testing of specimens from children under five, and healthcare‐seeking behavior, based on the proportion of symptomatic community participants seeking healthcare within the past week. We then estimated national hospitalization rates by multiplying age‐specific hospitalization rates with the corresponding annual national census population.

Results

Annual influenza‐associated hospitalization rates per 100,000 population for all ages ranged from 31 (95% CI: 27–36) in 2011 to 139 (95% CI: 130–149) in 2019. Children < 5 years old had the highest rates of influenza‐associated hospitalization, ranging from 114 (95% CI: 90–138) in 2011 to 529 (95% CI: 481–578) in 2019, followed by adults aged ≥ 65 years with rates ranging from 46 (95% CI: 34–57) in 2012 to 252 (95% CI: 213–292) in 2019. The national hospitalization estimates for all ages during 2010–2019 ranged from 47,891 to 236,380 per year.

Conclusions

The impact of influenza‐associated hospitalizations in Bangladesh may be considerable, particularly for young children and older adults. Targeted interventions, such as influenza vaccination for these age groups, should be prioritized and evaluated.
Myocardial work alterations with progressive left ventricular hypertrophy in patients with hypertension
Authors: Fan Jiali , Wang Heng , Zhang Yuzhen , Ma Changsheng , Zhou Bingyuan
Published: July 2024

Left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy (LVH) is frequently observed in patients with hypertension (HTN). LV myocardial work (MW) has recently emerged as a non‐invasive method to assess systolic myocardial deformation relative to afterload conditions. The authors investigated the characteristics of myocardial work with different degrees of LVH in HTN patients. From December 2020 to February 2024, 255 HTN patients and 26 healthy controls undergoing transthoracic echocardiography were included in the current study. Hypertension patients were divided into quintile groups based on left ventricular mass index (LVMI), for the first to fourth LVMI quantiles, global work index (GWI) and global constructive work (GCW) were higher compared to the control group, but the difference was not statistically significant. In the sixth LVMI quantile, GWI and GCW showed a significant decrease. The restricted cubic splines showed that both GWI and GCW exhibited an inverted U‐shaped relationship with LVMI. A LVMI of >151.39 g/m2 could accurately predict reduction both in GWI and GCW (Sensitivity: 0.78, Specificity: 0.89, AUC: 0.90, P < .001; Sensitivity: 0.81, Specificity: 0.92, AUC: 0.92, P < .001, respectively). As LVH progressed in HTN patients, both GWI and GCW initially demonstrated an increase, followed by a subsequent decrease. Myocardial work provides additional insights into assessment of cardiac function in HTN patients.