bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attrition problems at food delivery app companies: is there a way out?
Authors: Subramanian R. Bala , Choudhary Archana
Published: November 2023

Learning outcomes

After analysing this case study, students will be able to understand the relationship between compensation, reward management and gig workers’ behaviour; apply the theory of organizational behaviour related to compensation management to address the motivational issues; analyse the challenges in managing the gig workers’ expectations related to compensation; and design innovative ways of retaining gig workers, especially delivery partners among the gig workers.

Case overview/synopsis

In April 2022, Riya, who worked as a business development manager at a newly established food delivery app company named “Our Kitchen” (located in Hyderabad, India), attended a meeting where the chief executive officer expressed concern about the difficulty in retaining their delivery partners. The company provided food delivery services to the customers by procuring ordered food from partner restaurants in select Indian cities. The delivery partners of the company worked part-time and received a commission for the hours they worked. With the rising fuel cost, minimal career growth and negligible social security benefits, it was hard for them to continue in their jobs. As a result, there were high attrition rates in the food delivery company. This case study is about the attrition issue being faced by the company and explores various strategies through which Riya could think of retaining the delivery partners so that there was a win-win situation for both parties. The dilemma given in the case study would help in understanding the motivational theories and factors that encouraged delivery partners to work for these jobs.

Complexity academic level

The case study is ideally suited for discussing human resources concepts, especially problems related to the retention of delivery partners without reducing the profit of the organization. It will help in understanding the motivational factors leading to job satisfaction and how that will help in the retention of delivery partners. The case study can also be used to teach the executives in a management development programme. This will help them to understand the gig workers’ motivational factors and the causes of their attrition.

Supplementary material

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 6: Human resource management.
Working Out Loud: an intervention study to test an agile learning method
Authors: Augner Tabea , Schermuly Carsten C. , Jungmann Franziska
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Today’s unpredictable and fast-changing work environment challenges researchers and organizations to rethink learning. In contrast to traditional learning designs, new learning frameworks such as agile learning are more learner centered, integrated into the workplace and socially shaped. The purpose of this study is to examine Working Out Loud (WOL) as an agile learning method.

Design/methodology/approach

This intervention study used a pre–post and six-month follow-up design (N = 507) to evaluate the effects of WOL on learners’ vigor (affective outcome), WOL behavior (behavioral outcome) and psychological empowerment (cognitive outcome) at work.

Findings

The authors compared the three longitudinal measurements using multilevel modeling. Results revealed that WOL could significantly increase learners’ WOL behavior and psychological empowerment at work in the post and six-month follow-up measurements. No effect was found on learners’ vigor at work.

Originality/value

This study highlights the need for research on new, more agile learning frameworks and discusses their relevance to the literature. Agile learning frameworks enable learners to be more autonomous and flexible, allowing them to better adapt to changing environmental demands.
Twin‐screw extrusion of vitamin D3/iron‐blend granules in corn and lentil composite flours: Stability, microstructure, and interaction of vitamin D3 with human osteoblast cells
Authors: Ahmed Jasim , Giri Bhupendra Raj , Reza Mohammed Arshad , Qasim Syed S. Bin , Thomas Linu , Al‐Attar Hasan , Maniruzzaman Mohammed
Published: November 2023

Vitamin D3 (VD3) and iron‐blend granules were blended with corn and lentil composite flour (75/25, w/w) and fed into a pilot‐scale twin‐screw extruder to produce ready‐to‐eat snacks. The morphology and microstructure of extruded snacks were examined using scanning electron microscopy with energy‐dispersive X‐ray (SEM–EDX), X‐ray powder diffraction, and FT‐IR. Differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis measured the melting temperature and thermal stability of the extrudates. SEM and FT‐IR analysis demonstrate that micronutrients are mixed well in formulations used in extrudates at high shear and high temperatures. The SEM–EDX exhibited the presence of iron, whereas high performance liquid chromatography measurements confirmed the significant retention of VD3 in the extruded snacks. The interaction between VD3 and human osteoblast cells was studied using live imaging and the MMT assay. Overall, for the first time, VD3 and Fe2+ blend granules have been used in an extrusion platform, which has significant potential for the intervention of VD3 and iron deficiencies.

Practical Application

For the first time, we reported the use of VD3/iron‐blend granules in extruded products. The findings of this work demonstrated the thermal stability and capability of providing adequate quantities of VD3 and iron in corn flour/lentil flour/VD3‐iron blend extruded snacks. Furthermore, the interaction of VD3 with osteoblast cells highlights the potential health benefits of the extrudates.
Oral compound probiotic supplements can improve the quality of life for patients with lung cancer during chemotherapy: A randomized placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Wei Hao , Yue Zhiying , Han Jialong , Chen Ping , Xie Ke , Sun Yu , Zhu Jiang
Published: November 2023

Background

Chemotherapy is an important approach for lung cancer patients. The study was designed to evaluate the feasibility of the compound probiotic supplements in improving the quality of life for lung cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.

Methods

This randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial enrolled chemotherapy‐naive patients with lung cancer who were scheduled to receive platinum‐based doublet chemotherapy. All eligible patients were randomly administered (1:1) compound probiotic supplements (group BP‐1) or placebo (group C) for two chemotherapy cycles. The EORTC QLQ C30 questionnaire scores were evaluated before the first, second, and third cycles of chemotherapy. The primary endpoint was the difference in the EROTC QLQ C30 questionnaire score between the two groups after two cycles of chemotherapy.

Results

A total of 110 patients were recruited from March 2021 to January 2022. After undergoing two cycles of chemotherapy, group BP‐1 were significantly better in various dimensions of the overall quality of life, role function, nausea and vomiting, appetite loss, constipation, and diarrhea relative to group C (76.90 ± 18.31 vs. 58.89 ± 17.17; 93.33 ± 11.58 vs. 85.93 ± 15.06; 0.00 ± 0.00 vs. 27.04 ± 29.15; 6.67 ± 13.53 vs. 22.22 ± 18.80; 0.95 ± 5.63 vs. 28.15 ± 22.42; 2.86 ± 9.47 vs. 15.56 ± 16.82; p < 0.05, respectively). The incidence of nausea and vomiting, appetite loss, constipation, and diarrhea in group BP‐1 was significantly lower than in group C (0% vs. 71.43%, 16.67% vs. 57.14%, 2.38% vs. 63.27%, and 7.14% vs. 42.86%, respectively, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Compound probiotic supplements can improve the quality of life and relieve chemotherapy‐related gastrointestinal side effects for lung cancer patients receiving platinum‐based doublet chemotherapy. (Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR1800019269).
Comparing self‐esteem discrepancies in Pakistan and Canada
Authors: Vaughan‐Johnston Thomas I. , Imtiaz Faizan , Ji Li‐Jun , Hanif Rubina , Fowlie Devin I. , Jacobson Jill A.
Published: November 2023

The cross‐cultural universality of people's pursuit of positive self‐esteem is frequently disputed. Most research in this area has contrasted cultures of dignity (Western) and face cultures (East Asian), but less attention has been given to other cultures' views of self‐esteem. In the present work, we examined Pakistan as uniquely influenced by honour culture and South Asian argumentation culture principles, and we contrasted it with Canada (a Western culture of dignity). Across two studies, Pakistanis had less positive self‐esteem discrepancies (i.e., Pakistanis had minimal or no desire for higher self‐esteem) compared to Canadians (who desired much higher self‐esteem than they actually had). Pakistanis also believed less in the agentic benefits of high self‐esteem but more in the communal benefits of high self‐esteem than did Canadians. Differences in each cultures' beliefs about self‐esteem's causal powers partially accounted for the differences in self‐esteem discrepancies. These findings suggest unique conceptualizations of the value of self‐esteem in distinct cultures.
Early word learning is influenced by physical environments
Authors: Breitfeld Elise , Saffran Jenny R.
Published: November 2023

During word learning moments, toddlers experience labels and objects in particular environments. Do toddlers learn words better when the physical environment creates contrasts between objects with different labels? Thirty‐six 21‐ to 24‐month‐olds (92% White, 22 female, data collected 8/21–4/22) learned novel words for novel objects presented using an apparatus that mimicked a shape‐sorter toy. The manipulation concerned whether or not the physical features of the environments in which objects occurred heightened the contrasts between the objects. Toddlers only learned labels for objects presented in environments where the apparatus heightened the contrast between the objects (b = .068). These results emphasize the importance of investigating word learning in physical environments that more closely approximate young children's everyday experiences with objects.
Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists and risk of thyroid cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Silverii Giovanni Antonio , Monami Matteo , Gallo Marco , Ragni Alberto , Prattichizzo Francesco , Renzelli Valerio , Ceriello Antonio , Mannucci Edoardo
Published: November 2023

Aim

To conduct a meta‐analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) to investigate whether there is an association between glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist (GLP‐1RA) treatment and thyroid cancer.

Materials and Methods

In this meta‐analysis of RCTs, we included studies comparing a GLP‐1RA with any comparator, lasting at least 52 weeks, and reporting the incidence of adverse events independently of the principal endpoint and population. All cases of thyroid cancer were collected.

Results

We retrieved 64 trials, 26 of which reported at least one incident case of thyroid cancer. GLP‐1RA treatment was associated with a significant increase in the risk of overall thyroid cancer (Mantel‐Haenzel odds ratio [MH‐OR] 1.52 [95% confidence interval {CI} 1.01, 2.29]; P = 0.04, I2 = 0%), with a fragility index of 1, and a 5‐year number needed to harm of 1349. The association remained significant when including only trials lasting at least 104 weeks (MH‐OR 1.76 [95% CI 1.00, 3.12]; P = 0.05). No significant association was found for papillary thyroid cancer (MH‐OR 1.54 [95% CI 0.77, 3.06]; P = 0.22) or medullary thyroid cancer (MH‐OR 1.44 [95% CI 0.23, 9.16]; P = 0.55).

Conclusions

Our meta‐analysis showed that GLP‐1RA treatment could be associated with a moderate increase in relative risk for thyroid cancer in clinical trials, with a small increase in absolute risk. Studies of longer duration are required to assess the clinical implications of this finding.
Reflections on corporate purpose and performance
Authors: Mayer Colin
Published: November 2023

Abtstract

We are encountering growing crises that derive from a misconception of the nature of business. A revised understanding of profit should lie at the heart of the purpose of the corporation, namely, that it derives from producing solutions not problems for others. Firms should not profit from producing problems for others. There is a limit to the extent to which either competitive markets or regulation can ensure that. Instead, it must be intrinsic to the purpose of the business and, in the absence of this, both markets and regulation fail. Furthermore, public policy in the form of corporate taxation and public expenditure can be used to promote problem‐solving common purposes around shared prosperity. This has significant implications for business practice as well as policy.
Go beyond financial and performance information to reach donors: Designing‐effective online disclosure in the perception of European Community foundations
Authors: Rossi Gina , Leardini Chiara , Landi Stefano , Piubello Orsini Luca
Published: November 2023

Building perceptions of trustworthiness that encourage donors to give is critical for nonprofit organizations that depend on charitable giving. Several studies focused on the disclosure of financial and performance information to foster public trust and help donors to make giving decisions. Drawing from stewardship theory, this study explores how additional content dimensions of a more relational nature—including appreciation for the support received and willingness to dialog with donors—might be combined with financial and performance dimensions to design effective online disclosure in the view of nonprofits. By focusing on the viewpoint of European community foundations and using the configurational approach of qualitative comparative analysis, we found that information about fundraising campaigns is deemed must‐have content to discharge online. However, this information alone is not considered to be enough; to retain current donors or attract new ones, it must be combined properly with disclosures demonstrating gratitude to and engagement with donors alongside organizational finances and performance.
Influence of four hook types across four hook removal tools, including bare hands, on the effectiveness of hook removal and reflex impairment of Bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) captured from a lake in Eastern Ontario
Authors: Hussey Jeremy , LaRochelle Luc , Danylchuk Andy J. , Danylchuk Sascha Clark , Cooke Benjamin W. C. , Cooke Joshua T. H. , Cooke Cameron J. A. , Cooke Steven J.
Published: November 2023

Hook removal devices have been developed to enable rapid release of angled fish, yet little research has evaluated their effectiveness and potential for injury among hook types. We compared the performance of hook removal tools and bare hands with four hook types on freshwater Lepomid sunfish. Dehooking performance was assessed using hook removal time, unhooking difficulty, degree of tissue damage at the hooking location, and immediate reflex impairment. Unhooking difficulty was positively related to hooking depth. Unhooking difficulty was lowest for hemostats and the mechanical dehooking device; however, the mechanical dehooking device caused the largest tearing of mouth tissue. Unhooking difficulty was the main driver for hook removal time, tissue tear length, and overall reflex impairment. Hooks that were harder to remove caused higher reflex impairment. Hook type had little influence on the effectiveness of hook removal tools, although circle hooks were more difficult to remove and caused greater injury when using tools. Although use of hook removal tools can be beneficial for fish that are released, more research is needed on more species targeted by recreational anglers, and more hook removal tools. We suggest that hemostats should be used to remove hooks from fish to reduce unhooking difficulty, tissue tears, long air exposure, and thereby to increase the welfare of the fish.
Zoysiagrass (Zoysia spp.) accessions differ in nitrogen cycling during a simulated seasonal senescence
Authors: Zhu Huisen , Guo Huimin , Li Deying
Published: November 2023

Zoysiagrass is a valuable low maintenance warm‐season turfgrass. Nitrogen management is one of the most important management practices that affect colour retention and winter hardiness. However, the N cycling during seasonal senescence and its interaction with low temperature acclimation are not well‐understood. The objective of this experiment was to understand the initiation of senescence as affected by environmental signals and the contribution of chlorophyll and protein degradation to N metabolites. Two commercial cultivars (‘Meyer’ and ‘Zenith’), seven wild accessions of Z. japonica, one wild accession of Z. matrella, and one wild accession of Z. pacifica from China were tested. Mature plants were exposed to four sequential environmental conditions to simulate fall shortening light photoperiods and decreasing temperatures as low as 0°C. Major N containing compounds and key enzymes in N metabolism during the senescence and low temperature acclimation were measured. The results showed that accessions of zoysiagrass from low latitudes had higher chlorophyll retention and lower N recycle (low soluble protein and NH4‐N) than those from higher latitudes in a simulated late fall, indicating that different mechanisms were responsible for the senescence and low temperature acclimation. In general, chlorophyll and soluble protein concentration decreased during the senescence which led to an increase of total free amino acids, especially glutamine, prior to the low temperature dormancy. The changes in N metabolism and the N uptake were also reflected in the decrease of NO3‐N and increase of NH4‐N, as well as relevant enzyme activities in the key steps. The signal and regulation mechanism in N cycling during the seasonal senescence and acclimation requires further investigations.
Eco‐efficiency of leys—The trigger for sustainable integrated crop‐dairy farming systems
Authors: Taube Friedhelm , Nyameasem John Kormla , Fenger Friederike , Alderkamp Lianne , Kluß Christof , Loges Ralf
Published: November 2023

The specialisation of agricultural systems in Western Europe and the intensification of livestock and cropping production are intrinsically linked to substantial resource inputs. This intensified approach frequently leads to nutrient surpluses and biodiversity loss, resulting in detrimental environmental impacts. A transformative agricultural shift is imperative in light of climate and environmental protection objectives. Addressing this need, the Lindhof eco‐efficient pasture‐based milk production initiative, initiated in 2016, is a tangible manifestation of a productive and profitable dairy system integrated within a ley‐based Integrated Crop‐Livestock System (ICLS). Operational at the organically managed Lindhof farm, this approach involves a rotational stocking system of spring‐calving Jersey cows stocked on grass‐clover‐herb leys embedded within a cash crop rotation. The dairy cows benefit from these highly productive swards, rich in nutritive value comparable to concentrate feeding. At the same time, the cultivated crops derive advantages from the legacy effect of leys due to nutrient exchange facilitated by grazing excreta and residual crop matter. Compared to specialised systems, the ley‐based ICLS emerges as an alternative dairy production paradigm that supports many ecosystem services – including minimised nutrient losses, a lower carbon footprint and positive contributions to agro‐biodiversity. These outcomes are realised without compromising overall land‐use efficiency while reducing environmental and social costs of 20–30 Eurocent per kg of milk produced compared to specialised systems. Thus, the ley‐based ICLS conforms to the principles of ecological intensification, enhancing functional diversity within the agricultural landscape. Essentially, the Lindhof initiative represents a holistic and environmentally responsible approach to farming that could contribute to realising the EU Farm to Fork Strategy.
A Systematic Investigation of the Effects of Standard‐Sample Concentration Mismatch during Fe Isotope Measurement by MC‐ICP‐MS
Authors: King‐Doonan Elizabeth K. , Bilenker Laura D. , Weis Dominique , Gordon Kathy , Fourny Anaïs , Patton Genna M. , Zhao Ye
Published: November 2023

Advances in multi‐collector inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry (MC‐ICP‐MS) have led to the widespread use of iron (Fe) isotopes to elucidate the (bio)geochemical history of a range of environments. To generate Fe isotope ratio measurements, standard‐sample bracketing (SSB) is commonly used to correct for instrumental mass bias inherent to MC‐ICP‐MS. However, SSB is only accurate when sample and isotope standard Fe concentrations match, in addition to the bulk solution matrix. When the Fe concentrations differ, Fe isotope ratio measurement results may be inaccurate, a phenomenon known as the "self‐induced matrix effect." This study systematically characterised the self‐induced matrix effect for dry plasma Fe isotope ratio measurements on three MC‐ICP‐MS instruments and three introduction systems. Our extensive dataset indicates that: (1) the degree of mass bias is consistent regardless of MC‐ICP‐MS front‐end design, (2) the degree of mass bias becomes less reproducible as the concentration difference between the sample and bracketing standard increases, and (3) this applies to both pure Fe solutions and solutions from geological materials. This study reinforces the requirement to match bracketing standard and sample concentrations within 10% and provides a correction method for that fall beyond the recommended concentration range to subsequently allow for proper concentration matching during SSB.
Do atrophic gastritis and intestinal metaplasia reverse after Helicobacter pylori eradication?
Authors: Liang Yongqiang , Yang Yuanhai , Nong Ruiheng , Huang Hao , Chen Xiuyun , Deng Ying , Huang Zhicong , Huang Jingyao , Cheng Chunsheng , Ji Mingzhu , Chen Yinggang , Hu Fulan
Published: November 2023

Background

It's still controversial whether Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication can reverse atrophic gastritis (AG) and intestinal metaplasia (IM). Therefore, we performed a meta‐analysis to estimate the effect of H. pylori eradication on AG and IM.

Methods

We searched the PubMed, Web of Science and EMBASE datasets through April 2023 for epidemiological studies, which provided mean glandular atrophy (GA) or IM score before and after H. pylori eradication, or provided ORs, RRs or HRs and 95% CIs for the association of AG or IM with H. pylori eradication. Weighted mean difference (WMD) and pooled ORs and 95%CIs were used to estimate the effect of H. pylori eradication on AG and IM.

Results

Twenty articles with a total of 5242 participants were included in this meta‐analysis. H. pylori eradication significantly decreased GA score in the antrum (WMD −0.36; 95% CI: −0.52, −0.19, p < 0.01), GA score in the corpus (WMD −0.35; 95% CI: −0.52, −0.19, p < 0.01), IM score in the antrum (WMD −0.16; 95% CI: −0.26, −0.07, p < 0.01) and IM score in the corpus (WMD −0.20; 95% CI: −0.37, −0.04, p = 0.01). H. pylori eradication significantly improved AG (pooled OR 2.96; 95% CI: 1.70, 5.14, p < 0.01) and IM (pooled OR 2.41; 95% CI: 1.24, 4.70, p < 0.01). The association remained significant in the subgroup analyses by study design, sites of lesions, regions and follow‐up time. Although Publication bias was observed for AG, the association remained significant after trim‐and‐fill adjustment.

Conclusions

H. pylori eradication could significantly improve AG and IM at early stage.
Electron spin resonance and photoluminescence studies of Co/Mg co‐doped ZnO nanoparticles
Authors: Arda Lutfi , Karatas Ozgul , Alphan Mehmet Can , Ozugurlu Ersin
Published: November 2023

Zn0.95−xMg0.05CoxO (x = 0.01–0.05 with an increment of 0.01) nanoparticles were synthesized by using the sol–gel technique to analyze structural and magnetic properties. The single phase was observed in the X‐ray diffraction measurements. To examine the surface morphology, elemental compositions, crystal quality, defect type, density, and magnetic behavior of the nanoparticles, SEM, energy dispersive X‐ray analysis (EDX), PL, and ESR were used, respectively. The PL has ultraviolet and a broad emission band including violet and a blue spectral region corresponding to the defect‐related and excitonic emissions. These emissions were strongly dependent on the synthesize condition and doping element and ratio. The effect of cobalt concentration on the line widths of pike to pike (ΔHPP) and the g‐factor of ESR spectra were investigated. By comparing the results of the ESR and PL measurements, it was determined which defect with a given g‐factor was responsible for the corresponding PL emission band. In addition, ESR spectra of Mg/Co co‐doped ZnO nanoparticles with different cobalt concentrations recorded at room temperature were presented. Since Mg/Co co‐doped ZnO nanoparticles reveal ferromagnetism at RT, they could be an appropriate material for new devices in spin‐based technologies.
The multiword processing by low‐proficiency Japanese English learners: Meaningfulness and constructions
Authors: Kosaka Takumi
Published: November 2023

Recent psycholinguistic research underscores the significance of multiword units in language processing and acquisition, aligning with the Chunk‐and‐Pass framework. In this study, 55 low‐proficiency Japanese English learners and 27 native English speakers undertook a phrasal decision task featuring two trigram types: syntactically and semantically complete (send me letters) and fragmental (send me two) across four construction types (phrasal verb, simple transitive verb, caused‐motion verb, and ditransitive verb constructions). Results revealed that while native speakers distinguished between the trigram types, Japanese learners did less so. Additionally, Japanese learners struggled more with the ditransitive construction compared to other types, a challenge not faced by native speakers. This indicates that Japanese English learners may lack native‐like multiword chunking skills and that the learners’ processing efficiency differs by construction.
Tracking the Decolonial in African Christian Theology
Authors: Sakupapa Teddy Chalwe
Published: November 2023

Drawing on the framework and pluriversalist vision of decoloniality, this article offers a conceptual mapping of theoretical debates and trends in recent discourse on the decolonization of theology in the Southern African context with a view to outlining key missiological implications of such debates. It posits a view of African decolonial theology as the foregrounding of local, indigenous, contextual knowledge in discourse and as the praxis of faith rooted in contextual analysis of historical realities. This contribution articulates the notion of “mission from the margins,” derived from Together towards Life, as a decolonial mode of mission that gestures toward an epistemological shift in missional thinking. An initial version of this paper was presented at the seminar on decolonization organized by the World Council of Churches’ Commission on World Mission and Evangelism that was held in Lisbon, Portugal, in June 2023.
From web forms to chatbots: The roles of consistency and reciprocity for user information disclosure
Authors: Adam Martin , Benlian Alexander
Published: November 2023

Interactive decision aids (IDAs) on websites often require users to disclose relevant information (e.g., preferences, contact information) to help users in making decisions (e.g., product choice). With technological advances in IDAs, websites increasingly switch from static, non‐conversational IDAs (e.g., web forms) to conversational ones (e.g., chatbots) to boost user information disclosure that nurtures the websites' economic viability. While this novel form of IDAs is already widely employed in practice, information systems research has yet to examine the defining dialogue design features of conversational IDAs and their effects on eliciting user information. Drawing on persuasion theory and particularly on consistency and reciprocity as influence techniques, we develop a research model around two crucial dialogue design features of conversational IDAs. Specifically, we investigate the distinct and joint effects of conversational style (i.e., absence vs. presence of a conversational presentation of requests) and reciprocation triggers (i.e., absence vs. presence of reciprocity‐inducing information) on user information disclosure (i.e., email addresses). By combining the complementary properties of a randomised field experiment (N = 386) and a follow‐up online experiment (N = 182), we empirically provide evidence in support of the distinct and joint effects of conversational style and reciprocation triggers of IDAs on user information disclosure. Moreover, we demonstrate that these dialogue design features have indirect effects on information disclosure via perceptions of social presence and privacy concerns. Thus, our paper provides theoretical and practical insights into whether, how, and why critical IDA dialogue design features can better elicit user information for website services.
Clinical impact of left atrial remodeling pattern in patients with atrial fibrillation: Comparison of volumetric, electrical, and combined remodeling
Authors: Masuda Masaharu , Matsuda Yasuhiro , Uematsu Hiroyuki , Sugino Ayako , Ooka Hirotaka , Kudo Satoshi , Fujii Subaru , Asai Mitsutoshi , Okamoto Shin , Ishihara Takayuki , Nanto Kiyonori , Tsujimura Takuya , Hata Yosuke , Higashino Naoko , Nakao Sho , Mano Toshiaki
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is accompanied by various types of remodeling, including volumetric enlargement and histological degeneration. Electrical remodeling reportedly reflects histological degeneration.

Purpose

To clarify the differences in determinants and clinical impacts among types of remodeling.

Methods

This observational study included 1118 consecutive patients undergoing initial ablation for AF. Patients were divided into four groups: minimal remodeling (left atrial volume index [LAVI] < mean value and no low‐voltage area [LVA], n = 477); volumetric remodeling (LAVI ≥ mean value and no LVA, n = 361); electrical remodeling (LAVI < mean value and LVA presence, n = 96); and combined remodeling (LAVI ≥ mean value and LVA presence, n = 184). AF recurrence and other clinical outcomes were followed up for 2 and 5 years, respectively.

Results

Major determinants of each remodeling pattern were high age for electrical (odds ratio = 2.32, 95% confidence interval = 1.68–3.25) and combined remodeling (2.57, 1.88–3.49); female for electrical (3.85, 2.21–6.71) and combined remodeling (4.92, 2.90–8.25); persistent AF for combined remodeling (7.09, 3.75–13.4); and heart failure for volumetric (1.71, 1.51–2.53) and combined remodeling (2.21, 1.30–3.75). Recurrence rate after initial ablation increased in the order of minimal remodeling (20.1%), volumetric (27.4%) or electrical remodeling (36.5%), and combined remodeling (50.0%, p < .0001). A composite endpoint of heart failure, stroke, and death occurred in the order of minimal (3.4%), volumetric (7.5%) or electrical (8.3%), and combined remodeling (15.2%, p < .0001).

Conclusion

Volumetric, electrical, and combined remodeling were each associated with a unique patient background, and defined rhythm and other clinical outcomes.
Societal transitions, ethnolinguistic identities, and marital conservatism in Central Asia
Authors: Agadjanian Victor , Nedoluzhko Lesia
Published: November 2023

Objective

The study deploys an ethnolinguistic conceptual framework to examine variations in different dimensions of marital conservatism in the Kyrgyz Republic, a post‐Soviet nation in Central Asia, focusing on enduring, yet evolving, Russian linguo‐cultural influence.

Background

The global transformation of family and marriage systems has produced diverse local normative patterns that are historically rooted but are also reflective of context‐specific contemporary socio‐cultural, political, and economic transitions. The study investigates these patterns in a multi‐ethnic setting where Soviet‐era legacies, culturally pivoted on the use of the Russian language, have combined with post‐Soviet exposure to both Western influences and rising neo‐traditionalism.

Method

The study uses data from two rounds of a nationally representative cross‐sectional household‐based survey, with each round including standardized interviews with over 2000 men and women aged 18–49. Multi‐level regression models are fitted to predict ethnolinguistic variations in attitudes toward premarital chastity, optimal marriage age, support for parental preeminence in marital decisions, support for ethnic endogamy, and opposition to divorce, while accounting for universal correlates of marital conservatism, such as education, religiosity, and urbanicity. For most outcomes, the analyses examine separately how these attitudes apply to women versus men.

Results

The results demonstrate the persistent normative imprints of the Russian linguistic and cultural influence but also instructive variations in them across the specific outcomes. They also suggest an overall rise in some aspects of marital conservatism.

Conclusion

The findings elucidate the unique multidimensional complexities of family and marital change in transitional Eurasia, yet also its similarities with other post‐colonial contexts.
I can do good even when my supervisor is bad: Abusive supervision and employee socially responsible behaviour
Authors: Babu Nishat , De Roeck Kenneth , Rivkin Wladislaw , Bhattacharya Sudeshna
Published: November 2023

Existing research has convincingly demonstrated the deleterious impact of abusive supervision within the boundaries of the organization. However, we ask, can the harmful consequences of abusive supervision extend beyond organizational boundaries, and in particular, impact social good creation? To answer this crucial question, the present study investigates whether, how, and when abusive supervision affects employees' socially responsible behaviour (SRB). We build on ego depletion theory, and its theoretical extension, the integrative self‐control theory, to develop and test a multi‐level model that advances our understanding of the psychological mechanisms through, and boundary conditions under which abusive supervision affects employee SRB. Findings from a weekly diary study across 12 weeks support: (1) the role of ego depletion as a core psychological process that underlies the negative impact of weekly abusive supervision on employees' SRB and (2) the role of both trait abusive supervision and weekly impulse control demands as critical boundary conditions that determine whether weekly abusive supervision impacts SRB. These findings have important implications for the abusive supervision and social responsibility literatures, advancing our understanding of what organizations can do to alleviate the detrimental consequences of abusive supervision for social good creation.
Extracellular and intracellular destruction of Pseudomonas aeruginosa by Dictyostelium discoideum phagocytes mobilize different antibacterial mechanisms
Authors: Ayadi Imen , Lamrabet Otmane , Munoz‐Ruiz Raphael , Jauslin Tania , Guilhen Cyril , Cosson Pierre
Published: November 2023

Ingestion and killing of bacteria by phagocytic cells are critical processes to protect the human body from bacterial infections. In addition, some immune cells (neutrophils, NK cells) can release microbicidal molecules in the extracellular medium to eliminate non‐ingested microorganism. Molecular mechanisms involved in the resulting intracellular and extracellular killing are still poorly understood. In this study, we used the amoeba Dictyostelium discoideum as a model phagocyte to investigate the mechanisms allowing intracellular and extracellular killing of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. When a D. discoideum cell establishes a close contact with a P. aeruginosa bacterium, it can either ingest it and kill it in phagosomes, or kill it extracellularly, allowing a direct side‐by‐side comparison of these two killing modalities. Efficient intracellular destruction of P. aeruginosa requires the presence of the Kil2 pump in the phagosomal membrane. On the contrary, extracellular lysis is independent on Kil2 but requires the expression of the superoxide‐producing protein NoxA, and the extracellular release of the AplA bacteriolytic protein. These results shed new light on the molecular mechanisms allowing elimination of P. aeruginosa bacteria by phagocytic cells.
Kinesitherapy for Knee Osteoarthritis Patients Physical and Psychological Health Based on “Traditional Chinese Exercise” Management Modalities: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Tan Biao , Yan Yan , Zhou Qiujun , Ran Qiang , Chen Hong , Sun Shiyi , Lu Weizhong , Chen Weiheng , Wang Jiajun
Published: November 2023

Traditional Chinese exercise (“TCE” management modalities), including but not limited to Tai Chi, Baduanjin, and Yijinjing, has a good effect on improving the physical function of patients with knee osteoarthritis, but less attention has been paid to the impact on the psychological health of patients, and currently there is insufficient evidence to support it. We conducted this study to provide a systematic synthesis of best evidence regarding the physical and mental health of patients with knee osteoarthritis treated by traditional Chinese exercise. Literature on the effectiveness of traditional Chinese exercise (Tai Chi, Baduanjin, Yijinjing, Qigong, etc.) versus conventional therapy (muscle‐strength training of the lower extremity and aerobic training, wellness education, quadriceps strengthening exercises, etc.) on Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC), visual analog scale (VAS), Short Form‐36 (SF‐36), Timed Up and Go Test (TUG), and Berg Balance Scale (BBS) in knee osteoarthritis (KOA) from Pubmed, Web of Science, Ovid Technologies, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Chinese Science and Technology Periodical Database (VIP), Wanfang Database, and SinoMed were collected from their inception to April 2022. Thirty‐three studies with 2621 cases were included in this study. The study's results indicated that compared with conventional therapy, traditional Chinese exercise had more advantages on patients' WOMAC score, significantly reducing patients' overall WOMAC score (SMD = −0.99; 95% CI: −1.38, −0.60; p < 0.00001) and relieving pain (SMD = −0.76; 95% CI: −1.11, −0.40; p < 0.0001) in patients with KOA. It also has advantages over conventional therapy in improving mental component score (MCS) (SMD = 0.32; 95% CI: −0.00, 0.65; p = 0.05) and physical component score (PCS) (SMD = 0.34; 95% CI: 0.05, 0.62; p = 0.02). Compared with conventional therapy, traditional Chinese exercise can significantly reduce the effect on timed up and go test (TUG) score (SMD = −0.30; 95% CI: −0.50, −0.11; p = 0.002), beck depression inventory (DBI) score (SMD = −0.62; 95% CI: −1.03, −0.22; p = 0.002), and increase the impact on Berg Balance Scale (BBS) score (SMD = 0.60; 95% CI: 0.37, 0.83; p < 0.00001). The findings of this study indicated that traditional Chinese exercise improved body function and mental health in patients with knee osteoarthritis significantly. More high‐quality clinical evidence‐based data was needed to confirm the therapeutic effect of traditional Chinese exercise on the physical and mental health in KOA patients.
Landscape of wave focusing and localization at low frequencies
Authors: Davies Bryn , Lou Yiqi
Published: November 2023

High‐contrast scattering problems are special among classical wave systems as they allow for strong wave focusing and localization at low frequencies. We use an asymptotic framework to develop a landscape theory for high‐contrast systems that resonate in a subwavelength regime. Our from‐first‐principles asymptotic analysis yields a characterization in terms of the generalized capacitance matrix, giving a discrete approximation of the three‐dimensional scattering problem. We develop landscape theory for the generalized capacitance matrix and use it to predict the positions of three‐dimensional wave focusing and localization in random and non‐periodic systems of subwavelength resonators.
Two novel HLA‐A variants identified in Russian individuals, HLA‐A*02:01:215 and ‐A*32:151:02
Authors: Ananeva Anastasiia , Akhmetshina Gulnaz , Andryushkina Anna V. , Shagimardanova Elena I.
Published: November 2023

HLA‐A*02:01:215 and ‐A*32:151:02, two novel alleles detected in Russian individuals by next generation sequencing.
A C2H2‐type zinc finger protein ZAT12 of Poncirus trifoliata acts downstream of CBF1 to regulate cold tolerance
Authors: Zhang Yang , Xiao Wei , Wang Min , Khan Madiha , Liu Ji‐Hong
Published: November 2023

The Cys2/His2 (C2H2)‐type zinc finger family has been reported to regulate multiple aspects of plant development and abiotic stress response. However, the role of C2H2‐type zinc finger proteins in cold tolerance remains largely unclear. Through RNA‐sequence analysis, a cold‐responsive zinc finger protein, named as PtrZAT12, was identified and isolated from trifoliate orange (Poncirus trifoliata L. Raf.), a cold‐hardy plant closely related to citrus. Furthermore, we found that PtrZAT12 was markedly induced by various abiotic stresses, especially cold stress. PtrZAT12 is a nuclear protein, and physiological analysis suggests that overexpression of PtrZAT12 conferred enhanced cold tolerance in transgenic tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) plants, while knockdown of PtrZAT12 by virus‐induced gene silencing (VIGS) increased the cold sensitivity of trifoliate orange and repressed expression of genes involved in stress tolerance. The promoter of PtrZAT12 harbors a DRE/CRT cis‐acting element, which was verified to be specifically bound by PtrCBF1 (Poncirus trifoliata C‐repeat BINDING FACTOR1). VIGS‐mediated silencing of PtrCBF1 reduced the relative expression levels of PtrZAT12 and decreased the cold resistance of trifoliate orange. Based on these results, we propose that PtrZAT12 is a direct target of CBF1 and plays a positive role in modulation of cold stress tolerance. The knowledge gains new insight into a regulatory module composed of CBF1‐ZAT12 in response to cold stress and advances our understanding of cold stress response in plants.
New plasma protein C and protein S concentrate: A synergy for therapeutic purposes
Authors: Mori Filippo , Angelini Cristina , Farina Claudio
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives

Deficiencies of protein C (PC) or protein S (PS) are rare diseases, characterized by mutations in the PC or PS genes, which encode plasma serine proteases with anti‐coagulant activity. Severe PC or PS deficiencies manifest in early life as neonatal purpura fulminans, a life‐threatening heamorrhagic condition requiring immediate treatment. First‐line treatment involves replacement therapy, followed by maintenance with anti‐coagulants. Replacement therapy with specific protein concentrates is currently only limited to PC, and therefore, a PC + PS concentrate represents a useful addition to therapeutic options, particularly for severe PS deficiency. Further, the production of a PC + PS concentrate from unused plasma fractionation intermediates would impact favourably on manufacturing costs, and consequently therapy prices for patients and health systems.

Materials and Methods

Several chromatographic runs were performed on the same unused plasma fractionation intermediates using different supports to obtain a PC/PS concentrate. The best chromatographic mediums were chosen, in terms of specific activity and recovery. A full process of purification including virus inactivation/removal and lyophilization steps was set up.

Results

The final freeze‐dried product had a mean PC concentration of 47.75 IU/mL with 11% of PS, and a mean specific activity of 202.5 IU/mg protein, corresponding to over 12,000‐fold purification from plasma.

Conclusion

The development of a novel concentrated PC/PS mixture obtained from a waste fraction of other commercial products could be used for its potential therapeutic role in the management of neonatal purpura fulminans pathology.
How Online Psychotherapy Platforms Facilitate Accessibility to Mental Health Services in Cairo; The Case of Shezlong Mental Therapy Platform
Authors: Elsafty Ashraf , Shawky Mai
Published: November 2023

Mental disorders are considered as one of the biggest causes of disabilities that are common in several countries. Egypt lacks societal awareness of mental illness and mental health maintenance that could be attributed to the cultural and religious influence on the society which certainly affects the accessibility to mental care. Whether due to financial barriers, social barriers or privacy issues the concept of mental health and mental wellbeing is not fully developed in Egypt. With the technology advancements we’re experiencing today Telemedicine is becoming a popular way of practicing medicine and delivering medical services specially in mental health. Shezlong is one of the most popular online platforms offering mental health services to those in need, utilizing the power and convenience of the technology to overcome the barriers of access specially in Egypt. The utilized theoretical framework comprised 10 dimensions acting either as barriers or facilitators to accessibility to mental healthcare. The research design is descriptive with the correlational and inferential statistics type of instrumentation. The data will be collected via a structured questionnaire. The correlation and regression analysis revealed that “Acceptability, Affordability, Ability to seek, Availability and Accommodation, Ability to pay, Appropriateness, Ability to engage and Ability to reach” are the main barriers that influence the Egyptian patients to accessibility to mental services. The results suggest that the higher the levels of these specific dimensions, the higher degree of accessibility will be experienced by the patient.
Truncated Cone – A Universal Primitive Shape for Axisymmetric View Factor Systems
Authors: Cumber Peter S.
Published: November 2023

It is demonstrated that axisymmetric view factor systems can be modeled as a composite of truncated cones. For the hemisphere primitive shape, it is represented as a composite of truncated cones. One conclusion of the investigation is eight truncated cones are required to give a reasonable approximation to a hemisphere. The sensitivity of the run-time for the Monte Carlo methods to the number of surfaces is investigated and the run-time of the Monte Carlo method combined with ray tracing scales as the square of the number of surfaces, whereas the run-time of the hybrid Monte Carlo method scales in a weakly linear way with the number of surfaces. Representing a hemisphere with eight surfaces, for the view factor system considered and an root mean squared error (RMS) threshold of 0.001 the hybrid Monte Carlo method and quasi-Monte Carlo method have a speed-up of 8.3 and 55 compared to the Monte Carlo method with ray tracing.
Research on Deflagration Hazard and Its Influencing Factors on Urban Gas Pipeline
Authors: Li Qiaochu , Zhang Peng
Published: November 2023

In this paper, the hazard criteria for thermal radiation and shock wave overpressure applicable to the deflagration of urban gas pipelines have been proposed. The phast software is used to analyze the hazard intensity and degree of pipeline deflagration. Based on the hazard criteria, the situation of personnel and object damage is determined, and targeted risk control points are proposed. The influence of the parameters of wind speed, atmospheric stability, air humidity, and operating pressure on the deflagration hazard is studied. The work presented in this paper can provide a reference for the disaster assessment and safety management of urban gas pipelines.