bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Reality of Antimicrobial Resistance and Antibiotic Usage Data in Asia: The CAPTURA Experience
Authors: Leslie Toby , Parry Claudia , Ondoa Pascale , Walsh Timothy , Moore Catrin , Poudyal Nimesh , Marks Florian , Gordon N Claire
Published: December 2023

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR), particularly in low- and middle-income countries, is threatening to undermine advances in health and development. Scarce technical and human resources in these countries limit the collection of quality AMR data for evidence-based decision-making. The CAPTURA consortium, funded by the Fleming Fund, was implemented across 7 countries in the South and Southeast Asian region. The program focused on collating historical bacteriological data for qualitative and quantitative analyses. The team gathered standard data on the quality of laboratories and clinics and the quality and quantity of retrospective historical AMR data. In addition, retrospective data on antimicrobial use and consumption were analyzed. While standard protocols guided the project, a tailored approach for stakeholder engagement was implemented to work with countries and secure data-sharing agreements. The program also had to navigate the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, making some innovative adaptations to overcome logistical barriers. From 2018 through 2022, a large body of data was collected that was used to base a series of recommended key measures for strengthening the development of standardized national surveillance programs and to support alignment with international efforts.
Pervasive cranial allometry at different anatomical scales and variational levels in extant armadillos
Authors: Le Verger Kévin , Hautier Lionel , Gerber Sylvain , Bardin Jérémie , Delsuc Frédéric , González Ruiz Laureano R , Amson Eli , Billet Guillaume
Published: December 2023

Allometry, i.e., morphological variation correlated with size, is a major pattern in organismal evolution. Since size varies both within and among species, allometry occurs at different variational levels. However, the variability of allometric patterns across levels is poorly known since its evaluation requires extensive comparative studies. Here, we implemented a 3D geometric morphometric approach to investigate cranial allometry at three main variational levels—static, ontogenetic, and evolutionary—and two anatomical scales—entire cranium and cranial subunits—based on a dense intra- and interspecific sampling of extant armadillo diversity. While allometric trajectories differ among distantly related species, they hardly do so among sister families. This suggests that phylogenetic distance plays an important role in explaining allometric divergences. Beyond trajectories, our analyses revealed pervasive allometric shape changes shared across variational levels and anatomical scales. At the entire cranial scale, craniofacial allometry (relative snout elongation and braincase reduction) is accompanied notably by variations of nuchal crests and postorbital constriction. Among cranial subunits, the distribution of allometry was highly heterogeneous, with the frontal and petrosal bones showing the most pervasive shape changes, some of which were undetected at a more global scale. Evidence of widespread and superimposed allometric variations raises questions on their determinants and anatomical correlates and demonstrates the critical role of allometry in morphological evolution.
Revisiting just energy transition in Indonesia energy transition policy
Authors: Yuniza Mailinda , Salim Daven , Triyana Heribertus , Triatmodjo Marsudi
Published: December 2023

Leaving carbon-based energy will mean destruction for the players in the industry. As such, justice is an important factor in the transitioning process from a carbon-based energy to a green energy. However, what is considered ‘just’ remain a subject of debate in the existing literatures. This article aims to take a juridical normative approach to formulate ‘just’ concept in just energy transition in Indonesia energy transition policy, by scrutinizing the theory and practice and looking the status quo in Indonesia energy governance. This article proposes two practical solutions to the New and Renewable Energy Bill. Indonesia should include just transition concept and allow public participation in decision-making process to enable a ‘just’ energy transition.
The incidences and clinical outcomes of cryptococcosis in Taiwan: A nationwide, population-based study, 2002–2015
Authors: Guan Shang-Ting , Huang Yu-Shan , Huang Shih-Tsung , Hsiao Fei-Yuan , Chen Yee-Chun
Published: December 2023

Large-scale epidemiological data on cryptococcosis other than cryptococcal meningitis (CM), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)- or solid organ transplantation (SOT)-associated cryptococcosis are limited. This study investigated the disease burden of cryptococcosis in Taiwan over 14 years. Incident episodes of cryptococcosis, comorbidities, treatment, and outcomes were captured from Taiwan's National Health Insurance Research Database and National Death Registry between 2002 and 2015. Of 6647 episodes analyzed, the crude incidence rate per 100 000 population increased from 1.48 in 2002 to 2.76 in 2015, which was driven by the growing trend in the non-CM group (0.86–2.12) but not in the CM group (0.62–0.64). The leading three comorbidities were diabetes mellitus (23.62%), malignancy (22.81%), and liver disease (17.42%). HIV accounted for 6.14% of all episodes and was associated with the highest disease-specific incidence rate (269/100 000 population), but the value dropped 16.20% biennially. Within 90 days prior to cohort entry, 30.22% of episodes had systemic corticosteroid use. The in-hospital mortality of all episodes was 10.80%, which varied from 32.64% for cirrhosis and 13.22% for HIV to 6.90% for SOT. CM was associated with a higher in-hospital mortality rate than non-CM (19.15% vs. 6.33%). At diagnosis, only 48.53% of CM episodes were prescribed an amphotericin-based regimen. The incidence rate of cryptococcosis was increasing, especially that other than meningitis and in the non-HIV population. A high index of clinical suspicion is paramount to promptly diagnose, treat, and improve cryptococcosis-related mortality in populations other than those with HIV infection or SOT.
Atmospheres as a window to rocky exoplanet surfaces
Authors: Byrne Xander , Shorttle Oliver , Jordan Sean , Rimmer Paul B
Published: December 2023

As the characterization of exoplanet atmospheres proceeds, providing insights into atmospheric chemistry and composition, a key question is how much deeper into the planet we might be able to see from its atmospheric properties alone. For small planets with modest atmospheres and equilibrium temperatures, the first layer below the atmosphere will be their rocky surface. For such warm rocky planets, broadly Venus-like planets, the high temperatures and moderate pressures at the base of their atmospheres may enable thermochemical equilibrium between rock and gas. This links the composition of the surface to that of the observable atmosphere. Using an equilibrium chemistry code, we find a boundary in surface pressure–temperature space which simultaneously separates distinct mineralogical regimes and atmospheric regimes, potentially enabling inference of surface mineralogy from spectroscopic observations of the atmosphere. Weak constraints on the surface pressure and temperature also emerge. This regime boundary corresponds to conditions under which SO2 is oxidized and absorbed by calcium-bearing minerals in the crust, thus the two regimes reflect the sulphidation of the crust. The existence of these atmospheric regimes for Venus-like planets is robust to plausible changes in the elemental composition. Our results pave the way to the prospect of characterizing exoplanetary surfaces as new data for short period rocky planet atmospheres emerge.
Rrm3 and Pif1 division of labor during replication through leading and lagging strand G-quadruplex
Authors: Varon Mor , Dovrat Daniel , Heuzé Jonathan , Tsirkas Ioannis , Singh Saurabh P , Pasero Philippe , Galletto Roberto , Aharoni Amir
Published: December 2023

Members of the conserved Pif1 family of 5′-3′ DNA helicases can unwind G4s and mitigate their negative impact on genome stability. In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, two Pif1 family members, Pif1 and Rrm3, contribute to the suppression of genomic instability at diverse regions including telomeres, centromeres and tRNA genes. While Pif1 can resolve lagging strand G4s in vivo, little is known regarding Rrm3 function at G4s and its cooperation with Pif1 for G4 replication. Here, we monitored replication through G4 sequences in real time to show that Rrm3 is essential for efficient replisome progression through G4s located on the leading strand template, but not on the lagging strand. We found that Rrm3 importance for replication through G4s is dependent on its catalytic activity and its N-terminal unstructured region. Overall, we show that Rrm3 and Pif1 exhibit a division of labor that enables robust replication fork progression through leading and lagging strand G4s, respectively.
Neutrophils—biology and diversity
Authors: Maier-Begandt Daniela , Alonso-Gonzalez Noelia , Klotz Luisa , Erpenbeck Luise , Jablonska Jadwiga , Immler Roland , Hasenberg Anja , Mueller Tonina T , Herrero-Cervera Andrea , Aranda-Pardos Irene , Flora Kailey , Zarbock Alexander , Brandau Sven , Schulz Christian , Soehnlein Oliver , Steiger Stefanie
Published: December 2023

Neutrophils, the most abundant white blood cells in the human circulation, play crucial roles in various diseases, including kidney disease. Traditionally viewed as short-lived pro-inflammatory phagocytes that release reactive oxygen species, cytokines and neutrophil extracellular traps, recent studies have revealed their complexity and heterogeneity, thereby challenging this perception. Neutrophils are now recognized as transcriptionally active cells capable of proliferation and reverse migration, displaying phenotypic and functional heterogeneity. They respond to a wide range of signals and deploy various cargo to influence the activity of other cells in the circulation and in tissues. They can regulate the behavior of multiple immune cell types, exhibit innate immune memory, and contribute to both acute and chronic inflammatory responses while also promoting inflammation resolution in a context-dependent manner. Here, we explore the origin and heterogeneity of neutrophils, their functional diversity, and the cues that regulate their effector functions. We also examine their emerging role in infectious and non-infectious diseases with a particular emphasis on kidney disease. Understanding the complex behavior of neutrophils during tissue injury and inflammation may provide novel insights, thereby paving the way for potential therapeutic strategies to manage acute and chronic conditions. By deciphering their multifaceted role, targeted interventions can be developed to address the intricacies of neutrophil-mediated immune responses and improve disease outcomes.
L’allaitement et le lait humain en soins intensifs néonatals : de la naissance jusqu’au congé
Authors: Tomlinson Christopher , Haiek Laura N
Published: December 2023

Il est bien établi que le lait humain est la source nutritive optimale pour tous les nouveau-nés, y compris ceux qui ont besoin de soins intensifs. Le présent document de principes examine les données probantes qui appuient l’importance de l’allaitement et du lait humain pour les nouveau-nés, de même que les raisons pour lesquelles les pratiques d’allaitement doivent être priorisées à l’unité de soins intensifs néonatals. Il aborde aussi l’alimentation optimale des nouveau-nés en fonction de leur stabilité et de leur maturité, ainsi que la manière de soutenir les mères pour qu’elles établissent et maintiennent leur production de lait lorsque leur nouveau-né est incapable de se nourrir au sein.
Subsurface Seep Irrigation Effects on Omnivorous Nematode Vertical Distribution in Lysimeters
Authors: Waldo Benjamin D. , Mendes Maria L. , Crow William T.
Published: December 2023

Subsurface seep irrigation is a common practice in Florida histosol soils to supply water to crops by utilizing high-water tables. This study evaluated the effect of subsurface and overhead irrigation methods on plant-parasitic and free-living nematode densities in 46-cm soil lysimeters in a greenhouse study. Lysimeters were planted with bahiagrass in 2019 and wheat in 2020 and irrigated with subsurface or overhead irrigation for 12 weeks. Nematodes were extracted and quantified at 5-cm depth increments. Nematode counts were subjected to analysis of variance to compare treatment effects. Among nematode functional groups, omnivores were the most affected by irrigation method, their abundance being lower in subsurface-irrigated lysimeters than in overhead-irrigated ones. The results of this study show that omnivore nematode density and depth distribution are impacted by irrigation method.
Lugol's Solution Reduces Positive Margins and Residual Disease After the Large Loop Excision of Transformation Zone
Authors: Kim Min-Jeong , Lee Grace J. , Lee Eun Ji , Lee Seungmee , Chay Doo Byung , Lee Chae Hyeong , Kim Jae-Hoon , Roh Ju-Won
Published: December 2023

Objective

This study aimed to examine whether the intraoperative use of Lugol's solution reduces the proportion of positive resection margins (RMs) using the data of women who underwent large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ).

Materials and Methods

A total of 1,751 consecutive women with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) who underwent LLETZ with or without Lugol's solution were retrospectively retrieved from each database of 3 university hospitals in South Korea. Outcomes included positive RMs and residual disease pathologically confirmed within 6 months after LLETZ.

Results

Positive RMs were noted in 345 cases (19.7%). Among 1,507 women followed up, residual disease was diagnosed in 100 cases (6.6%) (69/308 cases with positive RMs; 31/1,199 cases with negative RMs). The Lugol's solution group was less likely to have positive RMs (11.8% vs 25.5%, p < .01), to require additional surgical intervention (5.4% vs 10.2%, p < .01), and to have residual disease (4.9% vs 8.0%, p = .02). On multiple logistic regression analysis, Lugol's solution reduced the proportion of positive RMs (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.31). Age (50 years or older; aOR, 1.64), preconization cervical cytology (aOR, 1.53), high-risk human papillomavirus (aOR, 1.75), and CIN 2 or 3 (aOR, 2.65) were independent risk factors for margin positivity (p < .01 for all except high-risk human papillomavirus of p = .05).

Conclusions

Lugol's solution optimizes CIN treatment by reducing the proportion of positive RMs and residual disease after LLETZ.
Mental Symptoms Among Mental Health Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Baltacioglu Mehmet
Published: December 2023

We aimed to examine the psychological reactions of healthcare professionals working in the field of mental health during the pandemic and their relationship with sleep quality, eating attitudes, and burnout. A cross-sectional survey was conducted over online platforms. A total of 128 mental health workers were included. Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory, Maslach Burnout Inventory, Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index, and Eating Attitudes Test were administered. Depression was detected in 38.3%, anxiety in 73.4%, decreased sleep quality in 89.1%, emotional burnout in 64.8%, depersonalization in 85.9%, and decreased personal achievement in 75.8% of the participants. Anxiety scores of participants who did not take an active role in COVID-19 (22.23 ± 5.067) were significantly higher (p < 0.001) than those who took an active role in COVID-19 (16.5 ± 6.273). Special attention must be paid to the mental health professionals, especially during crisis periods.
Tape Tarsorrhaphy in the Management of Lagophthalmos Caused by Severe Congenital Blepharoptosis Procedures
Authors: Sun Li-Ming , Hao Dong-Yue , Cao Jiao , Cang Zheng-Qiang , Fan Xiao , He Yun-Xia , Song Bao-Qiang , Peng Pai , Liu Chao-Hua
Published: December 2023

Background

Lagophthalmos, a common complication after blepharoptosis correction, has plagued oculoplastic surgeons. The goal of this study was to investigate the effect of tape eyelid closure on reducing the occurrence of lagophthalmos after blepharoptosis correction.

Methods

From April 2020 to June 2021, a total of 112 patients with severe congenital ptosis received corrective surgery at the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Xijing Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University. Of these, 48 underwent frontalis muscle advancement technique and 64 underwent conjoint fascial sheath suspension. Preoperative data collected included demographics, levator function, Bell's phenomenon, and marginal reflex distance 1 (MRD1). Postoperative data included surgery type, MRD1, eyelid closure function, aesthetic outcomes (including eyelid contour, eyelid symmetry, and eyelid crease), keratitis, and other complications.

Results

Frontalis muscle advancement technique group: the median of safe eye closure time was 7.3 months (positive Bell's phenomenon; interquartile range [IQR], 3.8–10.8 months) and 13.9 months (poor Bell's phenomenon; IQR, 11.6–16.1 months). There was a significant improvement between the preoperative and postoperative MRD1 (−1.52 ± 0.82 vs 3.85 ± 0.58 mm, P < 0.05). Conjoint fascial sheath suspension group: the median of safe eye closure time was 5.7 months (positive Bell's phenomenon; IQR, 2.9–8.5 months) and 12.4 months (poor Bell's phenomenon; IQR, 8.1–16.7 months). There was a significant improvement between the preoperative and postoperative MRD1 (−1.02 ± 0.91 vs 4.15 ± 1.03 mm, P < 0.05). All patients/guardians were satisfied with the aesthetic outcomes.

Conclusions

Tape tarsorrhaphy is a safe, easy-to-learn method for treating lagophthalmos with a good aesthetic outcome.
Genomic characterization of Bordetella pertussis in South Africa, 2015–2019
Authors: Moosa Fahima , du Plessis Mignon , Weigand Michael R. , Peng Yanhui , Mogale Dineo , de Gouveia Linda , Nunes Marta C. , Madhi Shabir A. , Zar Heather J. , Reubenson Gary , Ismail Arshad , Tondella M. Lucia , Cohen Cheryl , Walaza Sibongile , von Gottberg Anne , Wolter Nicole
Published: December 2023

Pertussis remains a public health concern in South Africa, with an increase in reported cases and outbreaks in recent years. Whole genome sequencing was performed on 32

Bordetella pertussis

isolates sourced from three different surveillance programmes in South Africa between 2015 and 2019. Genome sequences were characterized using multilocus sequence typing, vaccine antigen genes (ptxP, ptxA, ptxB, prn and fimH) and overall genome structure. All isolates were sequence type 2 and harboured the pertussis toxin promoter allele ptxP3. The dominant genotype was ptxP3-ptxA1-ptxB2-prn2-fimH2 (31/32, 96.9 %), with no pertactin-deficient or other mutations in vaccine antigen genes identified. Amongst 21 isolates yielding closed genome assemblies, eight distinct genome structures were detected, with 61.9 % (13/21) of the isolates exhibiting three predominant structures. Increases in case numbers are probably not due to evolutionary changes in the genome but possibly due to other factors such as the cyclical nature of

B. pertussis

disease, waning immunity due to the use of acellular vaccines and/or population immunity gaps.
Genomic characterization of a unique Panton–Valentine leucocidin-positive community-associated methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus lineage increasingly impacting on Australian indigenous communities
Authors: Ramsay Joshua P. , Parahitiyawa Nipuna , Mowlaboccus Shakeel , Mullally Christopher A. , Yee Nicholas W.T. , Shoby Princy , Colombi Elena , Tan Hui-Leen , Pearson Julie C. , Coombs Geoffrey W.
Published: December 2023

In 2010 a single isolate of a trimethoprim-resistant multilocus sequence type 5, Panton–Valentine leucocidin-positive, community-associated methicillin-resistant

Staphylococcus aureus

(PVL-positive ST5 CA-MRSA), colloquially named WA121, was identified in northern Western Australia (WA). WA121 now accounts for ~14 % of all WA MRSA infections. To gain an understanding of the genetic composition and phylogenomic structure of WA121 isolates we sequenced the genomes of 155 WA121 isolates collected 2010–2021 and present a detailed genomic description. WA121 was revealed to be a single clonally expanding lineage clearly distinct from sequenced ST5 strains reported outside Australia. WA121 strains were typified by the presence of the distinct PVL phage φSa2wa-st5, the recently described methicillin resistance element SCCmecIVo carrying the trimethoprim resistance (dfrG) transposon Tn4791, the novel β-lactamase transposon Tn7702 and the epidermal cell differentiation inhibitor (EDIN-A) plasmid p2010-15611-2. We present evidence that SCCmecIVo together with Tn4791 has horizontally transferred to

Staphylococcus argenteus

and evidence of intragenomic movement of both Tn4791 and Tn7702. We experimentally demonstrate that p2010-15611-2 is capable of horizontal transfer by conjugative mobilization from one of several WA121 isolates also harbouring a pWBG749-like conjugative plasmid. In summary, WA121 is a distinct and clonally expanding Australian PVL-positive CA-MRSA lineage that is increasingly responsible for infections in indigenous communities in northern and western Australia. WA121 harbours a unique complement of mobile genetic elements and is capable of transferring antimicrobial resistance and virulence determinants to other staphylococci.
Integrated Transcriptomic and Metabolomic Profiling of Sheep Ovarian Tissues Confer their association in Fecundity associated Pathways
Authors: Yousuf Salsabeel , Malik Waqar Afzal , Feng Hui , Liu Tianyi , Xie Lingli , Miao Xiangyang
Published: December 2023

Background

Low fertility is considered the major constraint in sheep rearing industry depending on several factors like, estrus cycle, ovulation rate and litter size but fecundity of ewe plays a key role in sheep reproduction, influenced by several intrinsic and extrinsic factors. However, genetic improvements of traits associated with reproduction through conventional breeding is a very complex and slow process. In current study, we went through a comprehensive integration of high throughput transcriptomic and metabolomics approaches to understand the role of key regulatory genes and metabolites in fecundity of two different and widely raised sheep breeds (Small Tail Han & Dolang) in different regions of China.

Result

UPLC/MS/MS system based metabolomic profiling of ovarian tissue from both breeds results into the identification of 1,423 metabolites, including 542 DEMs (379 upregulated and 163 downregulated). Integration of metabolomics and transcriptomics data identified 48 pathways contributed by 37 genes and 85 metabolites through regulatory network analysis. Functional enrichment analysis showed significantly enriched pathways associated with fecundity including Riboflavin metabolism, xenobiotics, bile acid biosynthesis, and Drug metabolism, which produces hormones for regulation of ovarian function, ovulation, and establishment of pregnancy. Further, analyzed two restrictive constrained plots analyzed via multivariate statistical analysis. In one plot complement component C3 associated with Leukotriene D4, and Uridine 5’-diphosphate involved in the processes of Neuroactive legend receptor interaction pathway and in second plot IFNGR1 associated with Progesterone, Fumaric acid, and Cortisone involved in the processes of cancer pathway and any disruptions in hormonal balance may induce cancer, which can affect fertility, menstrual cycles, and overall reproductive health.

Conclusion

Expression profiling, functional enrichments, co-expression network analysis and integrated transcriptomemetabolome data showed gene-metabolite association in energy metabolism, Inflammation, and drug metabolism, all of which play a role in ovarian physiology and ovarian metabolic disorders. Identification and validation of genes, metabolites, and gene-metabolite interactions will help to elucidate the regulatory mechanisms and pathways underlying sheep fecundity and could be leveraged to improve reproductive traits.

Graphical Abstract: Scheme of Study
Circuit-motivated generalized affine models characterize stimulus-dependent visual cortical shared variability
Authors: Xia Ji , Jasper Anna , Kohn Adam , Miller Kenneth D.
Published: December 2023

Correlated variability in the visual cortex is modulated by stimulus properties. The stimulus dependence of correlated variability impacts stimulus coding and is indicative of circuit structure. An affine model combining a factor proportional to mean stimulus response and an additive offset has been proposed to explain how correlated variability in primary visual cortex (V1) depends on stimulus orientations. However, whether the affine model could be extended to explain modulations by other stimulus variables or variability shared between two brain areas is unknown. Motivated by a simple neural circuit mechanism, we modified the affine model to better explain the contrast-dependence of neural variability shared within either primary or secondary visual cortex (V1 or V2) as well as the orientation-dependence of neural variability shared between V1 and V2. Our results bridge neural circuit mechanisms and statistical models, and provide a parsimonious explanation for the stimulus-dependence of correlated variability within and between visual areas.
Electroadhesive hydrogel interface for prolonged mucosal theranostics
Authors: Ying Binbin , Nan Kewang , Zhu Qing , Khuu Tom , Ro Hana , Qin Sophia , Wang Shubing , Jiang Karen , Chen Yonglin , Bao Guangyu , Jenkins Josh , Pettinari Andrew , Kuosmanen Johannes , Ishida Keiko , Fabian Niora , Lopes Aaron , Li Jason , Hayward Alison , Langer Robert , Traverso Giovanni
Published: December 2023

Establishing a robust and intimate mucosal interface that allows medical devices to remain within lumen-confined organs for extended periods has valuable applications, particularly for gastrointestinal (GI) theranostics. Here, we report the development ofe-GLUE, anelectroadhesive hydrogelinterface for robust and prolonged mucosal retention following electrical activation. Notably, this novel mucosal adhesion mechanism can increase the adhesion energy of hydrogels on the mucosa by up to 30-fold and enablein vivoGI retention of e-GLUE devices for up to 30 days. Strong mucosal adhesion occurs within one minute of electrical activation, despite the presence of luminal fluid, mucus exposure, and organ motility, thereby ensuring compatibility with complex in vivo environments. In swine studies, we demonstrate the utility of e-GLUE for mucosal hemostasis, sustained local delivery of therapeutics, and intimate biosensing in the GI tract. This system can enable improved treatments for various health conditions, including gastrointestinal bleeding, inflammatory bowel disease, and diagnostic applications in the GI tract and beyond.
Vocational education and training in South Africa: leaders' perceptions of a mentoring framework in a professional development programme
Authors: Prummer Katharina , Human-Vogel Salomé , Pittich Daniel
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The South African vocational education and training (VET) sector is required by legislation to redefine postsecondary education, advance industrialisation and expand the job market to address unemployment in the country. Yet, VET leaders' heterogenous educational and occupational backgrounds do not enable them to address the needs of the VET sector. Continuous professional development of leaders in the education sector needs to include support structures such as mentoring.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study sought to investigate how VET managers in South Africa perceive three different types of mentoring – individual, peer group and expert-based key performance area (KPA) mentoring – during a part-time professional leadership development programme. Using interactive qualitative analysis (IQA), the authors collected and analysed data from focus group discussions (n = 24) and individual interviews (n = 21) from two cohorts of the programme.

Findings

The results revealed that individual mentoring represented the most important driving mechanism, followed by peer group mentoring and expert-based KPA mentoring. Participants identified leadership as a prerequisite for their development. Emotions formed the final outcome of the mentoring framework.

Research limitations/implications

Based on the findings, the authors suggest investigating the role played by leaders' interpersonal competences such as emotional competence in the workplace. Additionally, research needs to clarify if and how mentoring can support leaders to develop interpersonal competences in formal and informal settings.

Originality/value

The study offers empirical evidence on a three-pillar mentoring framework adopted in a professional development programme for leaders in VET in South Africa. It highlights the importance of individual, social and emotional factors.
Drop cushioning dynamic effects of corrugated cardboard with effective anisotropic constitutive model
Authors: Xi Huifeng , Shu Xiangbo , Chen Manjie , Zhang Huanliang , Huang Shi-qing , Xiao Heng
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The primary objective of this study is characterizing the anisotropic mechanical properties of corrugated cardboard and simultaneously simulating its drop cushioning dynamic effects under various drop conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

Static and dynamic tests were conducted on corrugated cardboard to obtain adequate experimental data in different directions. An effective anisotropic constitutive model is introduced by developing the honeycomb materials model in ANSYS LS-Dyna, and an effective approach is established toward effectively determining the material parameters from the test data obtained. The model is validated by comparing simulation results with experimental data from five drop conditions, including bottom drop, front drop, side drop, 30° side drop and edge drop. Additionally, simulations are conducted to study the cushioning performance of the packaging by dropping the corrugated cardboard at different heights.

Findings

The study establishes a fast and effective approach to simulating the drop cushioning performance of corrugated cardboard under various drop conditions, which demonstrates good agreement with experimental data.

Originality/value

This approach is of value for packaging protection and provides guidance for stacking of packaging during transportation.
Resources, structural designs, climate and performance management in Botswana National Sport Organisations
Authors: Kasale Lobone Lloyd , Moruisi Moses Shanako , Motswakhumo Elsie Gaolatlhe
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This research investigates the roles that resources, organisational structure and climate play in the performance management of National Sport Organisations (NSOs).

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative study draws data from 31 interviews, five focus groups conducted amongst Botswana National Sport Organisations. To corroborate the data collected, documents from these sport organisations were content analysed.

Findings

The amount and type of resources available, the degree to which decision-making is centralised, practices formalised and roles specialised affects how NSOs implement performance management. NSOs were not implementing performance management systems and could not tell whether they were creating favourable environments to implement the practices.

Practical implications

Sport managers, policymakers and educators can use insights from this study to improve their practices. This study also proposes avenues for further research.

Originality/value

This study contributes to sport management literature on performance management, and it is original because such as study has not been conducted before.
Female unemployment and the procedure that a woman has to go through to start a business: microfinance policy thresholds
Authors: Asongu Simplice
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine how the starting of business by females can be promoted by assessing critical levels of microfinance institutions (MFIs) penetration that policymakers must endeavor to maintain and/or attain in order for female unemployment not to represent a constraint in the doing of business. A constraint in doing business is understood in terms of the procedure that a woman has to go through to start a business.

Design/methodology/approach

The focus of the study is on 44 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa for the period 2004–2018, while the empirical evidence is based on interactive quantile regressions.

Findings

The following findings are established. The validity of tested hypotheses is exclusively apparent in the lowest and highest quantiles of the conditional distribution of the procedure women have to go through to start a business. MFI penetration levels needed to reverse the unfavorable incidence of female unemployment in doing business are provided. These are minimum MFIs penetration thresholds that are required in order for female unemployment not to negatively affect the procedure that a woman should go through to start a business.

Originality/value

The study complements the extant literature by assessing critical microfinance penetration levels that are needed to promote female doing of business, contingent on existing levels of female doing of business.
The next generation of open data platform (ODP+): use case of Qatar
Authors: Albinali Ali Ahmed , Lock Russell , Phillips Iain
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This study aims to look at challenges that hinder small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from using open data (OD). The research gaps identified are then used to propose a next generation of OD platform (ODP+).

Design/methodology/approach

This study proposes a more effective platform for SMEs called ODP+. A proof of concept was implemented by using modern techniques and technologies, with a pilot conducted among selected SMEs and government employees to test the approach’s viability.

Findings

The findings identify current OD platforms generally, and in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, they encounter several difficulties, including that the data sets are complex to understand and determine their potential for reuse. The application of big data analytics in mitigating the identified challenges is demonstrated through the artefacts that have been developed.

Research limitations/implications

This paper discusses several challenges that must be addressed to ensure that OD is accessible, helpful and of high quality in the future when planning and implementing OD initiatives.

Practical implications

The proposed ODP+ integrates social network data, SME data sets and government databases. It will give SMEs a platform for combining data from government agencies, third parties and social networks to carry out complex analytical scenarios or build the needed application using artificial intelligence.

Social implications

The findings promote the potential future utilisation of OD and suggest ways to give users access to knowledge and features.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no study provides extensive research about OD in Qatar or GCC. Further, the proposed ODP+ is a new platform that allows SMEs to run natural language data analytics queries.
Minimising bubble‐related fouling: How to improve performance at lower cost and increased product quality—A theoretical proposal for ultra‐high‐temperature processing of milk
Authors: Skoglund Tomas
Published: December 2023

Recent research provides strong evidence that fouling in ultra‐high‐temperature (UHT) plants for milk is largely impacted by formation of bubbles on hot heat‐exchanger surfaces. The causal relationship between formation of bubbles and fouling is explained, and the impact of the variables—temperature, pressure and dissolved air, is clarified. By elevating the back pressure significantly, according to theoretically based mathematical equations, the formation of bubbles can be prevented, thus inhibiting the bubble‐related fouling. Equations and calculation results, based on a presented calculation tool, of three design examples, are provided to support designs of plants for suppressed or prevented bubble‐related fouling.
Preoperative pulmonary nodule localization: A comparison of hook wire and Lung‐pro‐guided surgical markers
Authors: He Rui , Ming Chao , Lei Yujie , Chen Wanling , Ye Lianhua , Li Guangjian , Zhang Xiangwu , Jiang Boyi , Zeng Teng , Huang Yunchao , Zhao Guangqiang
Published: December 2023

In minimally invasive thoracoscopic surgery, for solitary pulmonary nodules (SPNs) far from the pleura, it is difficult to resected by only relying on imaging data, and effective preoperative localization can significantly improve the success rate of surgery. Therefore, preoperative localization is particularly important for accurate resection. Here, we compare the value of a novel Lung‐pro‐guided localization technique with Hook‐wire localization in video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery.

Method

In this study, 70 patients who underwent CT‐guided Hook‐wire localization and Lung‐pro guided surgical marker localization before VATS‐based SPNs resection between May 2020 and March 2021 were analyzed, and the clinical efficacy and complication rate of the two groups were compared.

Result

Thirty‐five patients underwent Lung‐pro guided surgical marker localization, and 35 patients underwent CT‐guided Hook‐wire localization. The localization success rates were 94.3% and 88.6%, respectively (p = 0.673). Compared with the puncture group, the locating time in the Lung‐pro group was significantly shorter (p = 0.000), and the wedge resection time was slightly shorter than that in the puncture group (P = 0.035). There were no significant differences in the success rate of localization, localization complications, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative hospital stay, and the number of staplers used.

Conclusion

The above studies show that the Lung‐pro guided surgical marker localization and the CT‐guided Hook‐wire localization have shown good safety and effectiveness. However, the Lung‐pro guided surgical marker localization may show more safety than the Hook‐wire and can improve the patient's perioperative experience.
Genetic diversity, gene flow, and landscape resistance in a pond‐breeding amphibian in agricultural and natural forested landscapes in Norway
Authors: Haugen Hanne , Dervo Børre K. , Østbye Kjartan , Heggenes Jan , Devineau Olivier , Linløkken Arne
Published: December 2023

Genetic diversity is a key part of biodiversity, threatened by human activities that lead to loss of gene flow and reduction of effective population sizes. Gene flow is a result of both landscape connectivity and demographic processes determining the number of dispersing individuals in space and time. Thus, the effect of human impact on processes determining the level of genetic diversity must be interpreted in the context of basic ecological conditions affecting survival and recruitment. When the intensity of human impact and habitat suitability correlate, the effect on genetic diversity and gene flow may be challenging to predict. We compared genetic diversity, gene flow and landscape resistance in two contrasting landscapes in Norway for the pond‐breeding amphibian Triturus cristatus: a highly human‐impacted, agricultural landscape with ecologically productive habitats, and a forested landscape with less productive habitats and lower levels of human impact. Our results show that genetic diversity was higher and gene flow lower within the forested landscape. Microclimatic moisture conditions and vegetation cover were important determinants of landscape resistance to gene flow within both landscapes. There were indications that landscape resistance was increased by minor roads in the forested landscape, which was not the case for the agricultural landscape, suggesting a higher vulnerability to human interference within the landscape matrix for the populations in less productive habitats. Our findings suggest that the effect of human impact on genetic diversity may not be straightforward but modulated by the ecological conditions underlying local demographic processes. Populations within both landscapes seem to be vulnerable to loss of genetic diversity, but due to different mechanisms. This has implications for the choice of relevant management actions, that is, increasing population stability may be more relevant within an agricultural landscape still permeable for dispersal, while conserving dispersal corridors may be more appropriate in the forested landscape, to avoid isolation and increased genetic drift.
Factors related to subjective evaluation of difficulty in chewing among community‐dwelling older adults
Authors: Seto Eri , Kosaka Takayuki , Hatta Kodai , Mameno Tomoaki , Mihara Yusuke , Fushida Shuri , Murotani Yuki , Maeda Erisa , Akema Suzuna , Takahashi Toshihito , Wada Masahiro , Gondo Yasuyuki , Masui Yukie , Ishizaki Tatsuro , Kamide Kei , Kabayama Mai , Ikebe Kazunori
Published: December 2023

Aim

Awareness of difficulty chewing may limit the diversity of food intake in older adults. However, few studies have clarified which factors are related to subjective difficulty in chewing. The aim was to identify factors related to subjective difficulty in chewing in 70‐ and 80‐year‐old Japanese older adults.

Methods

A total of 1680 participants (792 men, 888 women) were surveyed. Difficulty in chewing was assessed with questionnaires regarding food intake, such as rice, apples, beef, and hard rice crackers. The participants were classified into two groups, the “with difficulty” group (participants who answered “cannot eat,” “can eat with difficulty,” and “can eat if small”) and the “without difficulty” group (participants who answered “can eat without problems”), according to their answers to questionnaires for each food. A logistic regression analysis with subjective difficulty in chewing as the dependent variable was performed for each food.

Results

Subjective difficulty in chewing was associated with age, occlusal force, and depression for rice; age, number of remaining teeth, occlusal force, and depression for apples; number of remaining teeth, occlusal force, and depression for beef; and number of remaining teeth and occlusal force for hard rice crackers.

Conclusions

Age, number of remaining teeth, and occlusal force, as well as depression, might be related to subjective evaluation of difficulty chewing in community‐dwelling Japanese older adults. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 327–333.
Psychological interventions in the treatment of delusional parasitosis: a brief review
Authors: Katamanin Olivia , Jafferany Mohammad
Published: December 2023

This review synthesized evidence on the most up‐to‐date treatment outcomes in patients with delusional parasitosis and examined the impact of incorporating psychological interventions in conjunction with psychiatric treatment. The reporting of this review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis guidelines. PubMed and Google Scholar were searched between 2013 and 2023. Nine studies were included in this review. Partial remission was observed across all cases, irrespective of the treatment approach employed. Complete remission was limited to only three studies. No correlation was observed between the incorporation of psychological intervention in conjunction with psychotropic medication and an enhanced remission outcome. The findings underscore the importance of psychotropic medication as a fundamental component in the treatment of delusional parasitosis. The results highlight that although first‐ and second‐generation psychotropic medications are the mainstay treatment options, they nevertheless play a limited role because of the patients' steadfast delusions of infestations.
Earnings inequality and the expansion of care services in the United States, 1985–2019
Authors: Gautham Leila , Folbre Nancy , Smith Kristin
Published: December 2023

Earnings in care services are lower than in other industries, particularly among professional and managerial employees, and are more compressed than in other industries. The growth of primarily female employment in care services since the 1980s has buffered overall increases in wage inequality while slowing convergence in the gender wage differential.
Neutrophil extracellular traps in rheumatoid arthritis and periodontitis: Contribution of PADI4 gene polymorphisms
Authors: Oliveira Sicília Rezende , de Arruda José Alcides Almeida , Schneider Ayda Henriques , Bemquerer Larissa Marques , de Souza Rayssa Maria Soalheiro , Barbim Paula , de Mattos‐Pereira Gustavo Henrique , Calderaro Débora Cerqueira , Machado Caio Cavalcante , Alves Sandra Fukada , Moreira Paula Rocha , de Oliveira Renê Donizeti Ribeiro , Louzada‐Júnior Paulo , Abreu Lucas Guimarães , Cunha Fernando Queiroz , Silva Tarcília Aparecida
Published: December 2023

Aim

We sought to investigate the release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in neutrophils from individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and controls and compare the presence of NETs in gingival tissues according to periodontal status. Also, the association between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the peptidyl arginine deaminase type 4 (PADI4) gene and the GTG haplotype with RA, periodontitis and NETs was evaluated in vitro.

Materials and Methods

Peripheral neutrophils were isolated by density gradient, and NET concentration was determined by the PicoGreen method. Immunofluorescence was studied to identify NETs by co‐localization of myeloperoxidase (MPO)‐citrullinated histone H3 (H3Cit). Genotyping for SNPs (PADI4_89; PADI4_90; PADI4_92; and PADI4_104) was performed in 87 individuals with RA and 111 controls.

Results

The release of NETs in vitro was significantly higher in individuals with RA and periodontitis and when stimulated with Porphyromonas gingivalis. Gingival tissues from subjects with RA and periodontitis revealed increased numbers of MPO‐H3Cit‐positive cells. Individuals with the GTG haplotype showed a higher release of NETs in vitro and worse periodontal parameters.

Conclusions

The release of NETs by circulating neutrophils is associated with RA and periodontitis and is influenced by the presence of the GTG haplotype.
How Well Does Uncertainty Forecast Economic Activity?
Authors: XU JIAWEN , ROGERS JOHN
Published: December 2023

We evaluate the forecasting ability of several popular measures of uncertainty. We construct new real‐time versions of both macro‐economic and financial uncertainty, and analyze them together with their ex post counterparts. We find some explanatory power in all uncertainty measures, with relatively good performance by ex post macro‐economic and financial uncertainty. However, real‐time versions perform only about as well as other uncertainty measures such as economic policy uncertainty (EPU), a finding we relate to data revisions in the construction of ex post uncertainty. Real‐time data and estimation considerations are highly consequential, owing to look‐ahead bias. Real‐time uncertainty forecasts real‐time outcome variables better than it forecasts ex post revised outcome variables.