bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Empowering sustainability practice via sustainability literacy: a mediated model
Authors: Panakaje Niyaz , Parvin S.M.Riha , Sheikh Niha , Kulal Abhinandan , Bazigha U.M. , Lasrado Babitha Shali , Irfana Shakira
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Combating unsustainable activities is a crucial barrier to sustainable development, since they have drastically escalated the climate change which needs an immediate attention by the Z generation. The study aims to examine the role of sustainability literacy, institutional initiatives and individual factors in impacting university students’ sustainable practices by giving due consideration to teacher support and student engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

With the descriptive design, a survey questionnaire was used to gather data for this investigation, collecting responses from 419 university students from the region of Karnataka, India, with an impressive response rate of 96%. Following the data collection, statistical techniques, such as regression analysis, one sample t-test and structural equation modelling, were applied to evaluate the direct and indirect impacts of numerous sustainability factors on student’s sustainable practices.

Findings

Firstly, we found that students need to have strong sustainable literacy, institutional initiatives and individual factors to amplify their sustainable practices. Moreover, mediating influence of teacher support and student engagement were also observed in the current research. Interestingly, student’s sociocultural environment and government initiatives played a moderating role in uplifting their sustainable practices.

Research limitations/implications

The results illuminate the involvement of all the stakeholders in contributing to sustainable future through sustainable practices. However, this study limits its scope to educational setting and gives no importance towards parental upbringing and influence which can be addressed in the future research.

Originality/value

We provided a broader range of influencing factors to promote sustainable future for the future generation.
Examining the link between political connection and firm performance: the moderating effect of audit quality
Authors: Almarayeh Taha , Al-Hamadeen Radhi , Alshira’h Ahmad , Khassawneh Abd Alwali Lutfi , Zaidan Hala , Mowafi Omar
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between political connections, audit quality and firm performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample of this investigation was sourced from 51 industry-listed firms on the Amman Stock Exchange (ASE) from 2009 to 2022. Ordinary least squares regression was used to investigate the association between political connections, audit quality and firm performance. Generalized least squares estimation method was used to verify that the outcomes are robust.

Findings

The study finds that listed companies with political connections have better performance than those without such ties. The findings also suggest that politically connected firms would prefer higher-quality financial reporting and, hence, appoint Big 4 auditors.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this analysis is one of the first to explore the relationship between political connections, audit quality and firm performance in Jordan. By documenting the role of Big 4 auditor as a motivating factor for politically connected firms to enhance firm performance, this paper enriches the political connection and auditor choice literature.
How does big data influence smart manufacturing in the presence of preventive maintenance? A multi-analytical investigation
Authors: Samadhiya Ashutosh , Naz Farheen , Kumar Anil , Garza-Reyes Jose Arturo , Luthra Sunil
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Smart manufacturing (SM) capitalizes on big data analytics (BDA) advancements by enhancing current capabilities such as defect identification and enabling supporting capabilities such as preventive maintenance (PM). The previous literature fails to investigate the comprehensive associations between SM, BDA and PM. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the relationship among SM, BDA and PM.

Design/methodology/approach

The present research implements a multi-analytical PLS-SEM-ANN approach to investigate the relationships among BDA, PM and SM.

Findings

This investigation indicates that BDA is an effective digital technology that positively affects the operations of SM and PM. Furthermore, the results suggest that PM has a positive influence on SM and that it also positively mediates the relationship between BDA and SM, where PM cannot be treated as an auxiliary practice and plays an important role in SM as a primary operation. Furthermore, implementing the BDA enhances the performance of SM and PM.

Originality/value

The role of PM in the context of BDA and SM has been ignored in past research, and this study offers novelty by examining this relationship.
We do not want to leave: technology in the digital realm, business model innovation and the decline of SMEs global presence
Authors: Dung Luu Tien
Published: December 2024

Purpose

By providing a practical and theoretical framework on the role of digitalization in business model innovation (BMI) and countermeasures liabilities of foreignness (LoF), we aim to provide small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from emerging markets with the means to confront the reality of de-internationalization.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative design emphasizing mature theory design and collecting survey data from 210 SMEs in an emerging market. The data are analyzed using a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) based on covariance-based SEM (CB-SEM), multiple regression analysis (MRA) and Hayes' process model.

Findings

Digitalization was revealed to significantly and indirectly negatively affect SMEs’ de-internationalization via BMI. Besides, the conditional indirect effect of digitalization on de-internationalization through BMI is more robust and exists at the high LoF of SMEs.

Originality/value

We advise SMEs with a distinctive and relatively comprehensive strategy for coping with the pressures of de-internationalization or having their internationalization schedules perpetually altered through the lens of the resource-based view and institution theory.
From bad bosses to weakened marriages: the role of abusive supervision in emotional exhaustion, work–family conflict and marital strain
Authors: Farrukh Muhammad , Abas Basit , Ghazzawi Issam , Rafiq Muhammad
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The study aims to explore and test the relationship between abusive supervision, emotional exhaustion, work–family conflict and divorce intentions among employees in the hospitality industry. Specifically, it investigates how abusive supervision leads to emotional exhaustion, which in turn intensifies work–family conflict and ultimately influences divorce intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a mixed-methods design with an exploratory sequential approach. In the first phase, qualitative interviews with hotel employees explored the effects of abusive supervision on work and family life. Findings from these interviews informed the development of a framework for the second phase, which quantitatively tested the relationships between abusive supervision, emotional exhaustion, work–family conflict and intention to divorce.

Findings

Our findings revealed that abusive supervision causes emotional exhaustion, which in turn leads to work–family conflict. However, we did not find any significant link between work–family conflict and the intention to divorce.

Originality/value

To the best of our knowledge, this study is among the first studies to explore the outcomes of abusive supervision using the mixed method approach, specifically the exploratory sequential design, to comprehensively examine the associations among abusive supervision, emotional exhaustion, work–family conflict and marital problems. This research contributes to leadership literature by providing empirical findings on the long-term impacts of abusive supervision.
Reimagining educator roles for adaptive learning: insights from the Gioia methodology in a tech-driven future
Authors: Saikrishna M.B
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how educators perceive and adapt their roles in the face of changes in technology-driven learning environments. The Gioia methodology explores how educators enable adaptive learning, broaden their pedagogical practice and promote cultural inclusivity to educate diverse students.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper involves a qualitative interpretive phenomenological research design using the Gioia methodology. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with 14 educators across various disciplines. Gioia methodology is a structured exploration of first- and second-order themes and aggregate dimensions that capture the nuanced ways in which educators navigate adaptive learning contexts.

Findings

This study highlights how digital tools help enable personalized self-directed learning, how adaptive learning adapts educators to become more than just traditional teachers and how the culturally responsive teaching that is required in a globalized learning environment promotes inclusivity and resilience in a diverse group of learners.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the growing body of literature on adaptive learning and identifies educators’ critical, expanded roles in a technology-centred world. This research provides a structured, in-depth analysis of educator perspectives on adaptive learning using the Gioia methodology, offering unique insights into the policy and practice implications.
Strategies for environmental sustainability: analyzing the green and digital transitions
Authors: Kharb Ravita , Shri Charu , Saini Neha , Kumar Dinesh
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Green and digital transitions (twin transition) help in achieving climate neutrality, cutting down the pollution level and reviving biodiversity. Organizations can mitigate their ecological footprint, improve their digital portfolio and fulfil their ethical responsibilities by fostering a sustainable global community and adhering to a well-defined plan. In such backdrop, this study aims to propose strategies by identifying the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of the twin transition and to categorize and evaluate the internal and external factors for achieving environmental sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a comprehensive review of the literature, 27 factors have been identified and analyzed using the strengths, weakness, opportunities and threat matrix (SWOT). Threats, opportunities, weakness, strength matrix analysis approach is used to limit risk, overcome weaknesses and take advantage of opportunities. Effective strategies are designed and implemented using strategic planning action and evaluation matrix (SPACE) and quantitative strategic planning (QSPM) approach.

Findings

The study found that aggressive strategies considering economic strength and global opportunities must be used to accomplish green growth objectives. Out of three strategies, the focus on green technological innovation by taking advantage of financial mechanisms at the international level is highly recommended to achieve environmental sustainability.

Research limitations/implications

Through promoting green and digital transformation, the current study provides insightful policy recommendations for economic development. It may help to improve operational efficacy and to obtain a competitive edge by successfully limiting their adverse environmental effects in the global market through the implementation of twin transition. The process of developing a strategy aids stakeholders, including society, workers and other parties, in giving environmental sustainability a top priority while making financial decisions.

Social implications

Strategy development helps society, employees and all the other stakeholders to prioritize their green and digital transition decisions for environmental sustainability.

Originality/value

The current study identifies the factors formulating strategies using SWOT, TOWS, SPACE and QSPM matrix analysis for achieving environmental sustainability in the pervasive twin transition.
Catalyzing strategy: guidelines for better strategy and strategic thinking
Authors: Allio Michael K.
Published: December 2024

Purpose

VUCA times are pressuring senior executives more than ever to find pathways to growth, reinvention, and innovation. Strategy continues to be a primary tool in the toolkit, and yet execution is regularly rated as poor, and strategy is often misunderstood and misaligned. The article identifies patterns and symptoms of poor strategy processes and structures, and highlights successful approaches to activating strategy by breaking down barriers, communicating strategy more effectively, and creating the conditions for strategic thinking to permeate the organization.

Design/methodology/approach

This article usefully highlights trends in approaches to the strategy process and strategic practices, drawn from a range of recent robust surveys of thousands of senior strategists, CEOs, and senior executive teams across industries, sectors, continents. It also integrates examples and insights gleaned from applied strategy consulting engagements across industries, and curates contemporary examples from an array of sectors.

Findings

Most strategy execution is ineffective, slow, and misunderstood. Many strategy processes and structures do not overcome bureaucracy and misalignment, and many organizations lose sight of the links between mission, purpose, and strategy. Higher performing organizations invest in communicating strategy and purpose extensively, deploy dedicated strategy teams at multiple altitudes, and make strategy and strategic thinking a routine practice that informs decision-making (not a static, annual exercise).

Originality/value

Through succinct examples drawn from an array of industries and the distillation of a range of survey results of strategists and senior executives/CEOs, this paper identifies patterns and symptoms of poor strategy and poor strategic thinking, highlights examples of good strategic thinking and processes, and proposes practical guidelines for improvement to catalyze strategy and strategic thinking throughout an organization. The insights are relevant to an array of organizations, large, medium and small, across industries and sectors.
A hybrid network for three‐dimensional seismic fault segmentation based on nested residual attention and self‐attention mechanism
Authors: Sun Qifeng , Jiang Hui , Du Qizhen , Gong Faming
Published: December 2024

Fault detection is a crucial step in seismotectonic interpretation and oil–gas exploration. In recent years, deep learning has gradually proven to be an effective approach for detecting faults. Due to complex geological structures and seismic noise, detection results of such approaches remain unsatisfactory. In this study, we propose a hybrid network (NRA‐SANet) that integrates a self‐attention mechanism into a nested residual attention network for a three‐dimensional seismic fault segmentation task. In NRA‐SANet, the nested residual coding structure is designed to fuse multi‐scale fault features, which can fully mine fine‐grained fault information. The two‐head self‐attention decoding structure is designed to construct long‐distance fault dependencies from different feature representation subspaces, which can enhance the understanding of the model regarding the global fault distribution. In order to suppress the interference of seismic noise, we propose a fault‐attention module and embed it into the model. It utilizes the weighted and the separate‐and‐reconstruct channel strategy to improve the model sensitivity to fault areas. Experiments demonstrate that NRA‐SANet exhibits strong noise robustness, while it can also detect more continuous and more small‐scale faults than other approaches on field seismic data. This study provides a new idea to promote the development of seismic interpretation.
Housing risk and the cross section of returns across many asset classes
Authors: Ma Sai , Zhang Shaojun
Published: December 2024

This article documents that a single‐factor model based on shocks to the residential investment share, or the ratio of residential‐to‐nonresidential investment, exhibits strong explanatory power for expected returns across various characteristic‐sorted portfolios in equity and other asset classes. The residential investment share captures time‐varying demand for housing services and is a state variable of the economy. Consequently, innovations to the share emerge as a risk factor in asset prices in the cross section. The empirical results are robust to controlling for other factor models based on durable consumption, financial intermediaries, household heterogeneity, and return‐based multifactor models designed to price these assets.
Comparison of the diagnostic efficacy between virtual portal pressure gradient and hepatic venous pressure gradient in patients with cirrhotic portal hypertension
Authors: Song Wei Ping , Zhang Shuo , Li Jing , Shao Yu Yang , Xu Ji Chong , Yang Chang Qing
Published: December 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the performance of virtual portal pressure gradient (vPPG) and its associated hemodynamic parameters of 3‐dimensional (3D) model in patients with cirrhosis.

Methods

Seventy cirrhotic patients who underwent both hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) measurement and vPPG calculation were prospectively collected. The ideal‐state model (ISM; n = 44) was defined by sinusoidal PH without hepatic vein shunt or portal vein thrombosis, whereas those not conforming to the criteria were classified as non‐ISM (n = 26). Correlation analyses were conducted to determine the relationship between vPPG or its associated 3D hemodynamic parameters and HVPG. The diagnostic and predictive performance of vPPG and HVPG for cirrhotic‐related complications was evaluated using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and Kaplan–Meier analysis.

Results

In the ISM group, vPPG‐associated hemodynamic parameters including total branch cross‐sectional area (S2), average branch cross‐sectional area (S), and average portal vein model length (h) were correlated with HVPG (r = 0.592, 0.536, −0.497; all p < 0.001), whereas vPPG was strongly correlated with HVPG (r = 0.832, p < 0.001). In the non‐ISM group, vPPG, S2, S, and h were not related to HVPG (all p > 0.05). In the ISM group, both vPPG and HVPG showed significant diagnostic and predictive capabilities for cirrhosis‐related complications. While in the non‐ISM group, the diagnostic accuracy and predictive efficacy of vPPG surpassed those of HVPG.

Conclusion

HVPG exhibited superior diagnostic and predictive efficacy for cirrhotic PH in the ISM, whereas vPPG showed enhanced performance in non‐ISM.
Improving the integration of artificial intelligence into existing ecological inference workflows
Authors: Cowans Amber , Lambin Xavier , Hare Darragh , Sutherland Chris
Published: December 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionised the process of identifying species and individuals in audio recordings and camera trap images. However, despite developments in sensor technology, machine learning and statistical methods, a general AI‐assisted data‐to‐inference pipeline has yet to emerge.

We argue that this is, in part, due to a lack of clarity around several decisions in existing workflows, including: the choice of classifier used (e.g. semi‐ vs. fully automated); how classifier confidence scores are used and interpreted; and the availability and selection of appropriate statistical methods for drawing ecological inferences.

Here, we attempt to conceptualise a general workflow associated with automated tools in ecology. We motivate this perspective using our experiences with occupancy modelling using monitoring data collected through passive acoustic monitoring and camera trapping, identifying priority areas for future developments.

We offer an accessible guide to support the ecological community in navigating and capitalising on rapid technological and methodological advances. We describe how different error types arise from both sensor‐based monitoring and from classifiers themselves; how different error types are handled at each stage of the workflow; and finally, implications and opportunities associated with deciding on methods used at each step of the pipeline.

We recommend that ‘black box’ tools like neural network classification algorithms should be embraced in ecology, but widespread uptake requires more formal integration of AI into the existing ecological inference workflows. Like ecological AI more broadly, however, successful development of new data‐to‐inference pipelines is a multidisciplinary endeavour that requires input from everyone invested in collecting, processing, analysing and using ecological monitoring data.
Rural nursing and allied health placements during the latter stage of the COVID‐19 public health emergency: A national study
Authors: Jessup Belinda , Brand Anthea , Kirschbaum Melissa , Allen Penny , Bourke Lisa , Bailie Jodie , Heaney Susan , Sheepway Lyndal , Podubinski Tegan , Hoang Ha , Obamiro Kehinde , Jatrana Santosh , Knight Sabina , Fitzroy Robyn , Rasiah Rohan
Published: December 2024

Objective

To explore changes to rural nursing and allied health placements during the latter stage of the COVID‐19 public health emergency.

Setting

Regional, rural and remote Australia.

Participants

Nursing and allied health students with a scheduled University Department of Rural Health (UDRH) facilitated rural placement between 1 January 2022 and 31 October 2022.

Design

Cross‐sectional online survey (n = 333), followed by semi‐structured interviews (n = 21).

Results

Almost all students surveyed (98.5%) were able to undertake their placement, although 13.1% reported changes to the setting, timing or delivery of training. Placement tasks (47.3%), experience of the local community (39.0%) and connection with other students (39.6%) were the placement aspects most commonly reported to have changed. However, most students were satisfied with their placement (86.0%), agreed their placement provided quality clinical training (79.3%) and wanted to work rurally after their experience (73.2%). Nursing students had lower odds of reporting satisfaction with placement (OR, 0.49 [95% CI 0.24–0.99, p = 0.03]), while placements longer than 4 weeks had almost twice the odds of promoting rural intention (OR, 1.84 [95% CI 1.09–3.15, p = 0.02]). Placement changes were associated with: fear of contracting COVID‐19; circulating illness; health workforce shortages; and health and safety compliance.

Conclusions

Despite changes, most students found rural placements undertaken during 2022 to be quality learning experiences which left them satisfied and wanting to work rurally. UDRHs should advocate for longer placements, improve remote supervision and accommodation infrastructure, and help prepare and support students for challenging learning environments to promote positive rural training experiences during public health emergencies.
Radiofrequency ablation versus microwave ablation for lung cancer/lung metastases: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Liu Xiaomei , Zhan Yuting , Wang Huimin , Tang Xiaoqin , Cheng Youguo
Published: December 2024

Background

Both radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and microwave ablation (MWA) are commonly used non‐surgical treatment methods for lung cancer/lung metastases (LC/LM). However, there is still debate over which one is superior. The meta‐analysis was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness and safety between the two groups.

Methods

Seven databases were systematically searched for relevant literature comparing RFA versus MWA in the treatment of LC/LM. The primary outcome assessed was survival, while secondary outcomes included ablation efficacy rate, recurrence, and complications.

Results

Ten studies were included, comprising 433 patients in the RFA group and 526 in the MWA group. The RFA group exhibited longer overall survival (OS) time (mean difference [MD]: 1.95 [0.43, 3.48] months) and progression‐free survival (PFS) time (MD: 3.00 [2.31, 3.69] months) compared to the MWA group. Progression‐free survival rates (PFSR) at 1 and 2 years were superior in the RFA group, with the advantage of PFSR increasing with prolonged survival time. However, the ablation duration (MD: 5.78 [3.54, 8.01] min) was longer in the RFA group. Both groups showed similar rates of recurrence, complete ablation (initial and subsequent sessions), total complications, as well as grade 1–2 and grade 3–4 complications. The top 5 complications in the total population were pneumothorax (26.63%), pleural effusion (17.22%), subcutaneous emphysema (14.31%), intra‐alveolar haemorrhage (9.72%), and post‐ablation syndrome (8.88%).

Conclusions

RFA appears to be more effective than MWA in the treatment of LC/LM, showing improved survival (OS and PFS) and comparable safety.
Positive dementia caregiving in 30 days (PDC30): Study protocol of a randomized controlled trial of a self‐guided automated online training program
Authors: Cheng Sheung‐Tak , Ng Peter H. F.
Published: December 2024

The Benefit‐Finding Intervention, a face‐to‐face psychoeducation program with a focus on the positive meanings of caregiving, has been found to reduce depressive symptoms and burden in dementia caregivers. The program was revamped into a computer‐delivered web‐based program to enable 24/7 access without location restriction. This study evaluates the efficacy of this new online program called Positive Dementia Caregiving in 30 Days (PDC30). A 2‐arm (PDC30 vs. waitlist control) parallel‐group randomized controlled trial will be conducted. Target sample is 200 mildly depressed dementia family caregivers with internet access and fluency in English, who will be recruited globally through a YouTube video promoted on social media and through service agencies. The primary outcome is depressive symptoms whereas secondary outcomes are anxiety symptoms, burden, and positive gains, all collected at baseline and 1, 2, and 3 months. The treatment x time (both linear and quadratic) interaction effects will be examined using mixed‐effect regression. Additionally, possible therapeutic mechanisms via strengthened self‐efficacy in controlling upsetting thoughts and positive reappraisal coping will be examined in a mediation path model. If positive treatment effects are found, the potential public health benefits, given the ease of access, universal availability, and flexible approach, of this online intervention are considerable.
A multi‐proxy reconstruction of Lateglacial and Holocene mountain vegetation dynamics in Uri, Central Switzerland
Authors: Huonder Ursula , Dziomber Laura , Gobet Erika , Senn Carolina , Zahajská Petra , Tinner Willy , Schwörer Christoph
Published: December 2024

In the context of climate change, a long‐term perspective is essential to understand future trajectories of mountain vegetation. We analysed the sediment record of Golzerensee (1411 m a.s.l.), a mountain lake in the transitional zone between the montane and subalpine vegetation belt in Uri, Central Switzerland. We reconstructed past vegetation responses to anthropogenic impact, fire activity and climatic changes dating back to c. 14 550 cal. a BP using pollen, stomata, macrofossil and microcharcoal analyses. The tree line, composed of Betula and Pinus sylvestris, reached Golzerensee during the Allerød c. 13 200 years ago, but tundra vegetation re‐expanded during the Younger Dryas cooling (12 800–11 700 cal. a BP). With the rapid temperature increase at the onset of the Holocene, a closed forest established within a few decades around the study site. Concurrently, temperate taxa (Ulmus, Tilia, Acer, Corylus avellana) increased in the lowlands, likely reaching the elevation of the lake. Abies alba established locally during the Holocene Thermal Maximum (HTM) at 9600 cal. a BP and dominated closed, montane forests, delaying the westward expansion of Picea abies that established only from c. 7700 cal. a BP onwards. The concomitant occurrence of cultural indicator taxa, as well as an increase in charcoal influx and fungal dung spore concentrations suggest that human impact has facilitated the expansion of Picea abies by negatively affecting important competitors such as Abies alba through fire and browsing disturbance. With rising temperatures due to current climate change, Abies alba and other temperate species may regain their former relevance, leading to diverse mixed forests that were abundant during the HTM c. 10 000–5000 cal. a BP. However, future forest composition and landscape diversity will also be influenced by browsing disturbance and land use management.
Prevalence of Vitamin D Deficiency With Biochemical Abnormalities in Children Undergoing Vitamin D Testing
Authors: Bolland Mark J. , Hofman Paul , Grey Andrew
Published: December 2024

Objective

Vitamin D deficiency (VDD) in children can cause hypocalcaemia and rickets, but the prevalence of these complications and the 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) concentrations below which they arise is uncertain. We investigated this in children (< 18 years) with 25OHD measurements.

Design, Measurement and Patients

We obtained 25OHD results from the regional laboratory database, alongside albumin‐adjusted serum calcium (aCa), parathyroid hormone (PTH) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) within 6 months of the index 25OHD. We defined confirmed VDD with biochemical abnormalities (VDDba) as all of low aCa, elevated PTH and elevated ALP. Possible/potential VDDba were defined as 2/3 VDDba criteria with the third test missing (possible), or in the normal range (potential). Clinical records of identified cases were reviewed, and a consensus diagnosis was reached.

Results

A total of 30,663 25OHD measurements were identified over 11.5 years (1 January 2009 to 15 June 2020); mean age 8 y, 47% female. After excluding ineligible results, 12,858 25OHD measurements from 9516 individuals with ≥ 2 aCa, PTH and ALP were analysed. Median 25OHD was 61 nmol/L; 36% < 50 nmol/L, 10% < 25 nmol/L. In total, 152 index 25OHD measurements were categorised as VDDba (30 confirmed, 23 possible and 99 potential). Following record review, 118 individuals (111 < 3 years) had 120 clinically confirmed VDDba episodes (62 clinical rickets, 15 biochemical rickets, 16 hypocalcaemia, 23 secondary hyperparathyroidism and 4 partially treated rickets). Fifty‐six had undetectable 25OHD, and 104 < 25 nmol/L. The proportion of clinically confirmed VDDba was 0.9% for all eligible 25OHD measurements, and 8% for 25OHD < 25 nmol/L.

Conclusion

VDDba is uncommon in children undergoing 25OHD testing, and occurs almost entirely in children < 3 years.
The role of sonic hedgehog signaling in the oropharyngeal epithelium during jaw development
Authors: Takeuchi Rika , Takechi Masaki , Namangkalakul Worachat , Ninomiya Youichirou , Furutera Toshiko , Aoto Kazushi , Koyabu Daisuke , Adachi Noritaka , Hayashi Katsuhiko , Okabe Masataka , Iseki Sachiko
Published: December 2024

Sonic hedgehog (Shh) is expressed in the oropharyngeal epithelium, including the frontonasal ectodermal zone (FEZ), which is defined as the boundary between Shh and Fgf8 expression domains in the frontonasal epithelium. To investigate the role of SHH signaling from the oropharyngeal epithelium, we generated mice in which Shh expression is specifically deleted in the oropharyngeal epithelium (Isl1‐Cre; Shhf/f). In the mutant mouse, Shh expression was excised in the oropharyngeal epithelium as well as FEZ and ventral forebrain, consistent with the expression pattern of Isl1. Isl1‐Cre; Shhf/f mice exhibited a complete loss of lower jaw components and a malformed upper jaw with defects in the cranial base and secondary palate. Massive cell death was observed in the mandibular process at embryonic day (E) 9.5 and E10.5, while mild cell death was observed in the lambdoidal region (the fusion area in the maxillary, lateral nasal, and medial nasal processes) at E10.5. An RNA‐seq analysis revealed that Satb2, a gene involved in cell survival during jaw formation, was downregulated in the lambdoidal region in Isl1‐Cre; Shhf/f mice. These results suggest that Shh expression in the FEZ is required for cell survival and skeletogenesis in the lambdoidal region during the development of the upper jaw and that the developmental control governed by SHH signaling is different between upper and lower jaws.
Annexin A1 Mitigates Blood–Brain Barrier Disruption in a Sepsis‐Associated Encephalopathy Model by Enhancing the Expression of Occludin and Zonula Occludens‐1 (ZO‐1)
Authors: Li Yao , Zhou Fang , You Jiyue , Gong Xinran
Published: December 2024

Aims

This study investigated the protective role of Annexin A1 (ANXA1) in sepsis‐associated encephalopathy (SAE) by examining its effects on brain vascular endothelium and blood–brain barrier (BBB) integrity.

Methods

Mice were divided into four groups: wild type (WT), cecal ligation and puncture (CLP), ANXA1 knockout (ANXA1[−/−]), and ANXA1(−/−) with CLP. Neurobehavioral changes were assessed using the Y‐maze test, while BBB integrity was evaluated through Evans blue dye (EBD) staining and permeability tests with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)‐dextran.

Results

Results showed that ANXA1 levels were reduced in septic mice, and its deficiency exacerbated cognitive impairment and survival rate reduction. ANXA1 deficiency also upregulated proinflammatory cytokines and adhesion molecules, worsened BBB impairment, and altered expression of tight junction proteins and VEGF‐A/VEGF‐R2. In vitro, ANXA1 Ac2‐26 prevented LPS‐induced increased permeability in bEnd.3 cells by restoring tight junction proteins and reducing VEGF‐A/VEGF‐R2 expression. Notably, VEGF‐A negated the protective effects of ANXA1 Ac2‐26.

Conclusion

The study concludes that ANXA1 reduces BBB permeability to protect against sepsis‐induced brain dysfunction via VEGF‐A/VEGF‐R2 regulation of tight junction proteins, suggesting ANXA1 as a potential therapeutic for SAE.
Elevated Activity in Left Homologous Music Circuits Is Inhibitory for Music Perception but Mediated by Structure–Function Coupling
Authors: Wang Yucheng , Jin Zhishuai , Huyang Sizhu , Lian Qiaoping , Wu Daxing
Published: December 2024

Aims

Previous studies suggested that structural and functional connectivity of right frontotemporal circuits associate with music perception. Emerging evidences demonstrated that structure–function coupling is important for cognition and may allow for a more sensitive investigation of brain–behavior association, while we know little about the relationship between structure–function coupling and music perception.

Methods

We collected multimodal neuroimaging data from 106 participants and measured their music perception by Montreal Battery of Evaluation of Amusia (MBEA). Then we computed structure–function coupling, amplitude of low‐frequency fluctuation (ALFF), gray matter volume (GMV), and structural/functional degree centrality (DC) and utilized support vector regression algorithm to build their relationship with MBEA score.

Results

We found structure–function coupling, rather than GMV, ALFF, or DC, contributed to predict MBEA score. Left middle frontal gyrus (L.MFG), bilateral inferior temporal gyrus, and right insula were the most predictive ROIs for MBEA score. Mediation analysis revealed structure–function coupling of L.MFG, a region that is homologous to typical music circuits, fully mediated the negative link between ALFF of L.MFG and MBEA score.

Conclusion

Structure–function coupling is more effective when explaining variation in music perception. Our findings provide further understanding for the neural basis of music and have implications for cognitive causes of amusia.
Changes in gastrointestinal motility and gut hormone secretion after Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass and sleeve gastrectomy for individuals with severe obesity
Authors: Wilbrink Jennifer A. , van Avesaat Mark , Nienhuijs Simon W. , Stronkhorst Arnold , Masclee Ad A. M.
Published: December 2024

Background

Bariatric surgery is very effective in long‐term weight management. The present study was undertaken to investigate the short‐term effects of sleeve gastrectomy (SG) and of Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (RYGB) on (a) gastrointestinal (GI) motility, that is gastric emptying and oro‐cecal transit time and (b) secretion of regulatory gut peptides and (c) their interrelationship.

Methods

Prospective single‐centre study in which we assessed gastric emptying, oro‐cecal transit time and gut peptide release in 28 severely obese individuals before and 2, respectively, 12 months after bariatric surgery (either SG or RYGB). Plasma PYY, GLP‐1, ghrelin, insulin and glucose levels were measured fasting and after intake of a solid standard 459 kcal meal at each occasion. Gastric emptying was measured by 13 C octanoic acid breath testing, and oro‐cecal transit time was measured by lactulose H2 breath testing. Satiation was measured using VAS scores.

Results

After both RYGB and SG gastric emptying become significantly accelerated, and postprandial release of the distal gut peptides GLP‐1 and PYY becomes significantly increased, pointing to ileal brake activation. Oro‐cecal transit time becomes significantly accelerated after SG but not after RYGB. No significant correlations were observed between changes in distal gut peptide release, changes in GI motility and clinical parameters.

Conclusion

Both SG and RYGB resulted in significant weight loss and significantly affected GI motility and PYY and GLP‐1 secretion. Subtle differences between both procedures were found in effect on oro‐cecal transit time and patterns of peptide secretion.
The value of semiquantitative analysis of [99mTc]MDP SPECT/CT in localizing responsible lesions for suspected fresh osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures in patients with contraindications to MRI
Authors: Shi Sheng , Cai Hai‐Dong , Lu Gai‐Xia , Zhang Li‐Guo , Zheng Shuang , He Shi‐Sheng
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of single‐photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT) in detecting and localizing the causative vertebra in cases of suspected fresh osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCFs) in patients with contraindications to MRI.

Methods

A total of 21 patients with severe back pain with 31 suspected OVCF segments and contraindications to MRI were initially identified through radiographs and the back pain‐inducing test (BPIT). The responsible vertebral bodies were determined using [99mTc]MDP SPECT/CT before percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP). Clinical outcomes and radiographic parameters, including basic demographics, injury duration, focal kyphosis (FK), loss of vertebral height (LVH), and relative intensity values (RIVs) for target and nontarget segments in the SPECT/CT were measured.

Results

SPECT/CT identified 14 old and 26 fresh OVCFs. Of these, 18 patients with 26 fresh OVCF segments underwent PVP, and achieved satisfactory outcomes. Significant differences were observed in the RIV, FK, and LVH values between the fresh and old OCVF groups (all p < 0.05). RIVs showed a significant negative correlation with injury duration (r = −0.57, p < 0.05), and a positive correlation with LVH (r = 0.43, p < 0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis confirmed that injury duration was an independent predictor of RIVs (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

SPECT/CT is useful for detecting and differentiating fresh fractures from old fractures in patients having OVCF who cannot undergo MRI after BPIT validation, allowing these patients to achieve excellent clinical outcomes following PVP. The RIV serves as a valuable parameter for assessing the duration of fresh versus old OVCFs.

Trial Registration

ChiCTR, ChiCTR 2300077570. Retrospectively registered, http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=206192.
Population pharmacokinetics of iruplinalkib in healthy volunteers and patients with solid tumors
Authors: Yang Guihong , Wang Yimei , Zhao Huimin , Jiang Ziyi , Zheng Shansong , Ge Mingjing , Si Meimei , Kang Xiaoyan
Published: December 2024

Iruplinalkib (WX‐0593), a selective oral ALK/ROS1 tyrosine kinase inhibitor, was approved in China as first‐line therapy for ALK‐positive non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and for the treatment of locally advanced or metastatic ALK‐positive NSCLC that has progressed following crizotinib therapy. Pharmacokinetics (PK) data of iruplinalkib have been collected in healthy subjects and patient populations in several studies. We developed a population PK (PopPK) model for describing iruplinalkib plasma concentrations and for evaluating whether dose adjustments are necessary based on demographic factors or disease characteristics. Plasma concentration–time data were collected from 392 participants (16 healthy volunteers and 372 patients with solid tumors) who received single or multiple doses of iruplinalkib in four trials. Data were analyzed using non‐linear mixed‐effects modeling. Iruplinalkib plasma concentrations were best described by a two‐compartment model with first‐order absorption and first‐order elimination. Baseline body weight, time‐varying albumin, time‐varying creatinine clearance, and time‐varying lactate dehydrogenase were significant covariates of apparent clearance from the central compartment (CL/F) while baseline body weight was a significant covariate of apparent volume of the central compartment (V1/F). Given the small or modest effect of all statistically significant covariates on iruplinalkib exposure at steady‐state, no covariate was expected to have clinically meaningful effects on iruplinalkib exposure. Furthermore, iruplinalkib absorption was delayed 0.472 h after meal, and Ka was 58.8% of that under fasting. However, there was no difference in exposure of iruplinalkib between the fasted and fed states. In conclusion, the PopPK model adequately describes iruplinalkib PK properties in Chinese healthy subjects and patients with solid tumors. No covariate had a clinically meaningful impact on iruplinalkib exposure. These results indicate that dose adjustment of iruplinalkib is not necessary, based on the aforementioned covariates, for ALK‐positive NSCLC patients.
A multidimensional assessment of Antarctic terrestrial biological data
Authors: Patterson Charlotte R. , Helmstedt Kate J. , Terauds Aleks , Shaw Justine D.
Published: December 2024

Aim

The globally significant communities of terrestrial Antarctica face an uncertain future amid growing threats in the region. Emerging data‐driven approaches must be leveraged to predict and understand patterns of biodiversity across the continent. A new comprehensive database of Antarctic biological occurrence records, the Biodiversity of Ice‐free Antarctica Database, will enable such novel fundamental and applied biodiversity modelling. However, there are limitations of assembled occurrence databases that, if unaccounted for, can result in poor model inference and outcomes. We perform a data quality assessment of the new database to highlight its potential and to identify data limitations that must be considered during modelling.

Location

Antarctica.

Methods

We assessed the coverage of the Biodiversity of Ice‐free Antarctica Database across geographic, environmental, taxonomic, and temporal dimensions at several spatial scales.

Results

We demonstrate great potential for the database to improve our understanding of many at risk and poorly known Antarctic functional groups. We also provide evidence for limitations of the database across data dimensions, including low geographic coverage that is biased towards research stations, poor coverage of environmental variation across the landscape, and long periods since records were last collected. The magnitude of these limitations varies substantially by region and spatial scale.

Main Conclusions

In combination, data limitations have a range of implications for terrestrial Antarctic modelling, including heightening the risk of model extrapolation. For future use, we recommend prioritising, mitigating, and presenting context‐specific model uncertainty, advancing strategic data collection, and exploiting shared modelling challenges elsewhere in the world to maximise the opportunities for this unique dataset to robustly advance science and conservation in Antarctica.
Rhodolith Beds in Brazil—A Natural Heritage in Need of Conservation
Authors: Schubert Nadine , Magris Rafael A. , Berchez Flávio , Bernardino Angelo F. , Ferreira Carlos E. L. , Francini‐Filho Ronaldo B. , Gaspar Tainá L. , Pereira‐Filho Guilherme H. , Rossi Sergio , Silva João , Sissini Marina N. , Soares Marcelo O. , Tâmega Frederico T. S. , Tuya Fernando , Horta Paulo A.
Published: December 2024

Aim

Brazil harbours the largest known extent of rhodolith beds (RBs) in the world, a habitat whose ecological and economic importance have been widely overlooked. This creates a dire situation that is likely to worsen with the rapidly expanding human activities, considering that less than 5% of Brazil's ocean area is fully protected. We assessed the importance of Brazilian RBs for supporting biodiversity, at a country‐wide level, and identified multi‐criteria hotspots that, in face of lack of protection and presence of anthropogenic threats, could safeguard conservation seascapes across Southwestern Atlantic waters.

Location

Southwestern Atlantic Ocean.

Methods

We performed a systematic review of studies on Brazilian RBs to retrieve information regarding their spatial distribution and associated biodiversity. Multi‐criteria hotspots were identified based on the areas where high species diversity co‐occurs with a high presence of endemic, threatened and commercially important species. Furthermore, we assessed how well RBs are covered by marine protected areas (MPAs), as well as their spatial overlap with multiple threats.

Results

Existing records for Brazilian RBs indicate > 1000 different species, mostly fish and algae, including significant numbers of endemic, threatened and commercially important species. Most of the RBs are either unprotected or only partially protected, including the majority of the biodiversity hotspots identified by our analysis. Among the main potential threats to RBs, bottom trawling ranks highest, while the expansion of seabed mining and oil and gas activities may sharply increase the risk of cumulative impacts on RBs in the near future.

Main Conclusions

Our large‐scale quantitative assessment confirms the significant role of RBs as biodiversity hotspots. This information could be leveraged to help meet the twin goals of RB conservation, through the establishment of highly‐protected MPAs in hotspot areas, and their sustainable use through an ecosystem‐based approach that accounts for vulnerabilities of RBs to multiple threats.