bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Capabilities toward adoption of outcome-based contracts
Authors: Mittal Sameer , Uski Veli-Matti , Yadav Vinod , Khan Muztoba Ahmad , Kärkkäinen Hannu
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Manufacturing enterprises have started to offer the “outcome” derived from machines with the help of outcome-based contracts (OBCs). Offering OBCs leads to benefits such as increased revenues, stronger customer relationships and sustainability. However, implementing OBCs requires critical capabilities. Existing literature has focused on identifying these necessary capabilities, but the prioritization and interrelationships among them remain unexplored. This study aims to address this gap.

Design/methodology/approach

Our study employs a hybrid analytical hierarchy process and interpretative structural modeling approach to prioritize and map interrelationships among OBC-related capabilities within small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Findings

The findings highlight the importance of digitalization capabilities such as data privacy and security, remote monitoring, and data analytics; and organizational and governance capabilities, including quantifying, controlling, and monitoring risks, teamwork, and leadership, are highlighted.

Research limitations/implications

We quantitatively prioritize OBC capabilities and establish their level-wise structural interrelationships, which will facilitate a more effective and efficient implementation of OBCs. Due to the emergent nature of OBCs, our study could identify just one SME case company meeting our selection criteria.

Originality/value

Existing OBC literature focusses on the design of OBCs in large companies. Similarly, earlier capability-related OBC literature is oriented toward identifying the OBC capabilities to perform specific functions. However, in the current study, we propose a systematic decision-making approach that comprehensively prioritizes and identifies the interrelationships among the capabilities necessary to provide OBCs, thus complementing the existing scientific literature on OBCs. In addition, we focus on SMEs, that have specific limitations and characteristics.
Does paradoxical leadership predict employee job performance in hospitality? A sequential mediation of harmonious work passion and innovative work behavior
Authors: Madaan Kashish , Jain Divya , Sharma Himani
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Drawing insights from a self-determination perspective, this study aims to investigate the impact of paradoxical leadership (PL) on job performance among hospitality employees. It also explores harmonious work passion (HWP) and innovative work behavior (IWB) as sequential mediators in this direct association.

Design/methodology/approach

A self-report structured questionnaire was used to collect survey data from 298 employees working in Indian four-, five- and five-star luxury hotels. To test the hypothesized model, partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used.

Findings

This study found PL positively influences HWP, IWB and job performance of hospitality employees. Also, the positive association between PL and employee job performance is significantly mediated by HWP and IWB, individually as well as sequentially.

Practical implications

Adopting PL in hotels can significantly boost employees’ HWP and IWB, resulting in enhanced job performance. This leadership style empowers employees to navigate conflicting demands, fostering creativity and adaptability. Consequently, hotels can benefit from a more engaged workforce, improved service delivery and a competitive edge.

Originality/value

This research adds to the limited literature on PL in the hospitality sector by highlighting its impact on employee behavior and performance outcomes. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to empirically link PL with HWP, IWB and job performance in a sequential mediation model. It uncovers the “black box” of mechanisms connecting PL to work outcomes from emotional and cognitive perspectives.
The impact of the 2012 student fees increase on the mental health of British graduates: a cohort study
Authors: Richardson Thomas , Sood Monica , Large Jack , McCloud Tayla
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Financial difficulties are associated with poor student mental health, although the 2012 tuition fees increase for British students had little impact on student mental health in the first two years at university. This study aims to examine the mental health of British graduates before and after this fees increase to determine the impact on mental health several years after graduation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study conducted an online cohort study with 327 British students who started university before and after the 2012 fees increase. Participants completed measures of current economic hardship and symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, general mental health and suicidality. Multiple regression was used to examine the impact of cohort (pre- and post-2012 fees increase), tuition fees amount and economic hardship on mental health.

Findings

Greater economic hardship was positively correlated with all mental health variables. Starting university after the fees increased and/or paying greater fees was associated with increased depression, anxiety, stress and suicidality, with little impact on general mental health. When economic hardship was covaried, the strength of cohort effects reduced but remained significant.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to show that the 2012 tuition fees increase for British students increased depression, anxiety, stress and suicidality in graduates many years after graduation, owing to additional financial strain.
University entrepreneurship: entrepreneurial orientation, networks, market orientation, and sustainable development
Authors: Pacheco Ana , Ferreira João J. M. , Simões Jorge , Veiga Pedro , Caputo Andrea
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The literature identifies the need to understand better the role of universities’ entrepreneurial orientation (EO), even while this remains an unexplored field. This study seeks to overcome this shortcoming and put forward empirical evidence on the EO of universities and it examines the moderating effects of networks, knowledge and trust, market orientation, and implementing sustainable development goals (SDGs) on the design and development of entrepreneurial universities.

Design/methodology/approach

To test the conceptual model, the authors used a sample of 125 questionnaires obtained from Portuguese higher education institutions, and it was deployed a structural equation model by a partial least squared as the estimation method.

Findings

The results show that the different dimensions of EO significantly influence the design and development of entrepreneurial universities. Furthermore, our findings show how market orientation and SDGs have moderating effects on the development of university entrepreneurship.

Practical implications

As for practical implications, the results point to the influence EO holds over entrepreneurial universities, and this causal relationship undergoes moderation by networks, knowledge and trust, market orientation and SDGs. As such, HEI rectors, deans and directors need to leverage these moderating effects, fostering human capital and universities’ active initiatives and policies to conceive and develop more entrepreneurial universities.

Originality/value

Our research model seeks to contribute to advancing studies on the EO of universities and assists in better understanding EO within the scope of influence of the third university mission as entrepreneurial institutions.
Service robot acceptance: agenda for tourism and hospitality research
Authors: Chen Qiurong , Huang Dan , Miao Mingjie
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to provide insights and guidance for future research on service robot acceptance in the tourism and hospitality (T&H) domain through a comprehensive literature review.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 249 journal articles, retrieved from the Scopus and Web of Science databases, were reviewed using an inductive analysis method.

Findings

Since its emergence in 2008, the topic of robot acceptance has gained significant attention, especially after 2019. The research assesses the current state of research, methodologies used, theoretical foundations and antecedents influencing acceptance. Five categories of antecedents affecting acceptance were systematically identified: robot design factors, individual/organisational factors, situational factors, appraisal factors and affective factors.

Originality/value

This study provides a comprehensive overview of the current landscape of service robot acceptance research. It offers insights and theoretical directions to advance research in the T&H domain.
Plant phenology predicts the stability of primary production in three ecosystems of the northern Chihuahuan Desert
Authors: Hallmark Alesia J. , Collins Scott L. , Litvak Marcy E. , Rudgers Jennifer A.
Published: November 2024

The temporal stability of plant productivity affects species' access to resources, exposure to stressors and strength of interactions with other species in the community, including support to the food web. The magnitude of temporal stability depends on how a species allocates resources among tissues and across phenological stages, such as vegetative growth versus reproduction. Understanding how plant phenological traits correlate with the long‐term stability of plant biomass is particularly important in highly variable ecosystems, such as drylands.

We evaluated whether phenological traits predict the temporal stability of plant species productivity by correlating 18 years of monthly phenology observations with biannual estimates of above‐ground plant biomass for 98 plant species from semi‐arid drylands. We then paired these phenological traits with potential climate drivers to identify abiotic contexts that favour specific phenological strategies among plant species.

Phenological traits predicted the stability of plant species above‐ground biomass. Plant species with longer vegetative phenophases not only had more stable biomass production over time but also failed to fruit in a greater proportion of years, indicating a growth–reproduction trade‐off. Earlier leaf‐out dates, longer fruiting duration and longer time lags between leaf and fruit production also predicted greater temporal stability.

Species with stability‐promoting traits began greening in drier conditions than their unstable counterparts and experienced unexpectedly greater exposure to climate stress, indicated by the wider range of temperatures and precipitation experienced during biologically active periods.

Our results suggest that bet‐hedging strategies that spread resource acquisition and reproduction over long time periods help to stabilize plant species productivity in variable environments, such as drylands.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Enhanced biosynthesis of poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate) in engineered strains of Pseudomonas putidavia increased malonyl‐CoA availability
Authors: Favoino Giusi , Krink Nicolas , Schwanemann Tobias , Wierckx Nick , Nikel Pablo I.
Published: November 2024

Malonyl‐coenzyme A (CoA) is a key precursor for the biosynthesis of multiple value‐added compounds by microbial cell factories, including polyketides, carboxylic acids, biofuels, and polyhydroxyalkanoates. Owing to its role as a metabolic hub, malonyl‐CoA availability is limited by competition in several essential metabolic pathways. To address this limitation, we modified a genome‐reduced Pseudomonas putida strain to increase acetyl‐CoA carboxylation while limiting malonyl‐CoA utilization. Genes involved in sugar catabolism and its regulation, the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, and fatty acid biosynthesis were knocked‐out in specific combinations towards increasing the malonyl‐CoA pool. An enzyme‐coupled biosensor, based on the rppA gene, was employed to monitor malonyl‐CoA levels in vivo. RppA is a type III polyketide synthase that converts malonyl‐CoA into flaviolin, a red‐colored polyketide. We isolated strains displaying enhanced malonyl‐CoA availability via a colorimetric screening method based on the RppA‐dependent red pigmentation; direct flaviolin quantification identified four engineered strains had a significant increase in malonyl‐CoA levels. We further modified these strains by adding a non‐canonical pathway that uses malonyl‐CoA as precursor for poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate) biosynthesis. These manipulations led to increased polymer accumulation in the fully engineered strains, validating our general strategy to boost the output of malonyl‐CoA–dependent pathways in P. putida.
Set pair analysis and system dynamics coupling approach for structure simulation and variation trend evaluation of water resources spatial equilibrium system
Authors: Wu Chengguo , Nie Boyu , Wang Xiaoyu , Jin Juliang , Zhou Yuliang , Bai Xia , Cui Yi , Zhou Liangguang , Zhang Libing
Published: November 2024

The implement of water resources spatial equilibrium (WRSE) schemes is fundamental task of integrated water resources management in China, in which, the evaluation and simulation analysis of WRSE system is of great concern for understanding the overall variation and feedback characteristics of WRSE system. Therefore, we utilized the ordered degree, entropy and connection number coupling model to evaluate the variation of WRSE system, and also employed system dynamics (SD) and scenario simulation integrated method to reveal the feedback characteristics between different equilibrium variables and subsystems, and thus the set pair analysis‐SD based approach for structure simulation and variation trend evaluation of WRSE system was constructed. The application results in Anhui province, China demonstrated that, the overall variation of provincial spatial equilibrium situation of WRSE system presented obvious improving trend, 2009–2019, the index of ordered degree and connection number entropy in Hefei, increased from the minimum of 0.6434 (Grade 3, unequilibrium) to maximum of 0.9985 (Grade 1, equilibrium). Moreover, the future variation of WRSE system will display stable improving trend during 2020 to 2029, in which, annual water resources availability and water resources utilization efficiency will have significant influence on WRSE system. And the research findings can be favorable to formulate water resources development and utilization strategies.
From strategic autonomy to strategic partnership: EU–India relations in health diplomacy
Authors: Pattanshetty Sanjay , Inamdar Aniruddha , Poojary Priya Vijaykumar , Kickbusch Ilona , Brand Helmut
Published: November 2024

The study examines the potential of the European Union (EU)–India cooperation in health diplomacy and the exchange of lessons learned by both actors. Particularly, the growing discourse on achieving strategic autonomy in health has not been adequately analysed in the existing literature, which is surprising given that both actors share this interest. This paper begins by contextualising the discourse of strategic autonomy in the European and Indian political discourse with a specific focus on achieving autonomy in health and subsequently argues for a transition from strategic autonomy to a strategic partnership by recognising the strategic interdependencies. A qualitative content analysis was used to analyse all 16 EU–India summits to locate health diplomacy in their relations and present recommendations for future cooperation. The shift from strategic autonomy to strategic partnership also necessitates a strategic vision towards shaping the EU–India cooperation. With the upcoming EU–India Summit in 2025, research and development, strengthening supply chains, harmonisation of regulations, and financing of healthcare are key areas that can be deliberated on to enhance the cooperation between the two global actors in healthcare.
A nationwide Swedish retrospective study on poisoning deaths between the years 2000 and 2022
Authors: Lindqvist Elin , Hollenberg Jacob , Ringh Mattias , Nordberg Per , Druid Henrik , Svensson Leif , Forsberg Sune
Published: November 2024

Background

Approximately 1% of Sweden's 90 000 annual deaths were reported caused by poisoning. In this study, we aim to describe this poisoning population's characteristics, autopsy frequency and results of toxicology testing.

Method

A national cohort study based on Swedish national registers. All deceased subjects older than 18 years with poisoning as the cause of death registered between 1 January 2000 and 31 December 2021 were included. Causes of death according to primary ICD‐10 code were analysed along with the substances found in forensic chemistry testing.

Results

There were 27 057 poisonous deaths during the study periods 2 018 495 adult deaths. Subjects deceased due to poisoning had a median age of 53 years, and 18 838 (70%) were men. A private home was the most reported location of death (52%). In total, 23 260 (87%) did undergo some sort post‐mortem examination. Drugs (synthetic narcotics, opioids, heroin) caused 12 448 (46%) deaths, and alcohols explained 9056 cases (33%). Positive toxicological tests were found in 22 550 (83%) of the subjects. The most common separate substances were ethanol, zopiclone and nordazepam.

Conclusion

Poisoning caused 1.3% of Swedish deaths. Men in their 50s were the most common victims, and their deaths were often cause by synthetic narcotics, other opioids or alcohol. The autopsy frequency was lower than expected for poisonous deaths.
Sourcing of the Oligocene to Pliocene sediments of the Ningnan Basin: Evidence for Tibetan Plateau growth and local faulting unravelled by detrital apatite fission‐track and U–Pb double dating
Authors: Jiao Xiaoqin , Zattin Massimiliano , Olivetti Valerio , Wang Jianqiang , Peng Heng , Cattò Silvia , Chew David
Published: November 2024

The Cenozoic topographic growth of the Tibetan Plateau is a pulsed, polyphase process that still requires more constraints. The Cenozoic sedimentary record of the Ningnan Basin, a continental basin located adjacent to the northeastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau, is a key archive for recording the surface evolution of the Tibetan Plateau. This work reports new provenance data (apatite fission‐track, apatite U–Pb dating, and trace element analysis on the same individual grains) from the Oligocene–Pliocene sedimentary sequence that filled the Ningnan Basin. The data set shows variations in provenance patterns through the Miocene which are related to the tectonic evolution of the northeastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau. In contrast to a primary provenance from the Western Ordos Block (WOB) during the Oligocene, the Miocene sediments were mostly derived from the recycling of Mesozoic successions that occur along the northwestern Haiyuan Fault, documenting it was active in the last ca. 15 Myr. These sediments, in turn, were derived from different orogenic blocks but mainly from different segments of the Qilian Mountains. We show that the Late Miocene–Pliocene sediments were primarily derived from transpressional uplift along the Haiyuan Fault, which affected regions such as the Liupan Mountains. Progressive northeastward migration of tectonic stress since the Middle Miocene has induced extensive regional deformation in the northeastern Tibetan Plateau, particularly along the Haiyuan Fault. The provenance record of the neighbouring Cenozoic basins is a key archive for deciphering this tectonic evolution.
Contrast‐Enhanced Ultrasound for Diagnosing Thyroid Nodules With Indeterminate Cytology: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Liu Yingchun , Liu Hui , Zhan Jia , Chai Qiliang , Zhu Jun , Ding Shengnan , Chen Lin
Published: November 2024

Background

A small number of thyroid nodules cannot be clearly diagnosed using ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspiration biopsy. Contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) has high diagnostic performance for thyroid nodules. We explored the value of CEUS for diagnosing thyroid nodules with indeterminate cytology.

Methods

Between September 2019 and July 2022, 27,646 patients with thyroid nodule(s) underwent conventional ultrasound (CUS) in our hospital. From these patients, 597 nodules were subjected to CEUS and ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspiration biopsy and 116 thyroid nodules with indeterminate cytology diagnose were enrolled in this study. The independent risk factors for predicting malignancy were determined using univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were drawn for CUS, CEUS, and CEUS combined with CUS. The area under the curve (AUC) was calculated and compared.

Results

Of the 116 thyroid nodules, 40 (34.5%) were benign and 76 (65.5%) were malignant. Univariate analysis showed that the shape, echogenicity, margin, microcalcification, enhancement intensity, enhancement homogeneity, wash in, and wash out were significantly different between benign and malignant thyroid nodules (all p < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that taller‐than‐wide, irregular margin, microcalcification, hypo‐enhancement, heterogeneity enhancement, synchronous/slower wash in, and synchronous/slower wash out were independent risk factors for malignancy (all p < 0.05). ROC curve analysis showed that the AUC of CUS and CEUS were 0.769 and 0.848, respectively. No significant difference was observed in the AUC between the two modalities (p > 0.05). However, the AUC (0.934) of the CUS combined with CEUS was significantly higher than that of CEUS or CUS alone (both p < 0.05).

Conclusions

CEUS is helpful in diagnosing thyroid nodules with indeterminate cytology. CUS combined with CEUS is highly valuable for predicting malignancy.
Targeting Myeloperoxidase to Reduce Neuroinflammation in X‐Linked Dystonia Parkinsonism
Authors: Petrozziello Tiziana , Motlagh Negin Jalali , Monsanto Ranee Zara B. , Lei Dan , Murcar Micaela G. , Penney Ellen B. , Bragg D. Cristopher , Fernandez‐Cerado Cara , Legarda G. Paul , Sy Michelle , Muñoz Edwin , Ang Mark C. , Diesta Cid Czarina E. , Zhang Can , Tanzi Rudolph E. , Qureshi Irfan A. , Chen John W. , Sadri‐Vakili Ghazaleh
Published: November 2024

Aims

Although the genetic locus of X‐linked dystonia parkinsonism (XDP), a neurodegenerative disease endemic in the Philippines, is well‐characterized, the exact mechanisms leading to neuronal loss are not yet fully understood. Recently, we demonstrated an increase in myeloperoxidase (MPO) levels in XDP postmortem prefrontal cortex (PFC), suggesting a role for inflammation in XDP pathogenesis. Therefore, we hypothesized that inhibiting MPO could provide a therapeutic strategy for XDP.

Methods

MPO activity was measured by using an MPO‐activatable fluorescent agent (MAFA) in human postmortem PFC. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and MPO activity were measured in XDP‐derived fibroblasts and SH‐SY5Y cells following MPO inhibition.

Results

MPO activity was significantly increased in XDP PFC. Additionally, treatment of cell lines with postmortem XDP PFC resulted in a significant increase in ROS levels. To determine whether increases in MPO activity caused increases in ROS, MPO content was immunodepleted from XDP PFC, which resulted in a significant decrease in ROS in SH‐SY5Y cells. Consistently, the treatment with verdiperstat, a potent and selective MPO inhibitor, significantly decreased ROS in both XDP‐derived fibroblasts and XDP PFC‐treated SH‐SY5Y cells.

Conclusions

Collectively, our results suggest that MPO inhibition mitigates oxidative stress and may provide a novel therapeutic strategy for XDP treatment.
Relationship between heart rate variability and echocardiography indices of cardiac function in healthy individuals
Authors: Rahman Mushidur , Russell Sophie L. , Okwose Nduka C. , Steward Charles J. , Maddock Helen , Banerjee Prithwish , Jakovljevic Djordje G.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study evaluated the relationship between HRV and echocardiography indices of cardiac function.

Methods

Healthy individuals (N = 30) aged 33 ± 10 years old, underwent short‐term resting HRV assessment and transthoracic echocardiography with speckle tracking analysis. Time domain ‐ (i.e. R‐R interval, root mean square of successive RR interval difference (RMSSD), standard deviation of normal RR intervals (SDNN) and frequency domain‐measures of HRV (i.e. high‐frequency power (HF), low‐frequency power (LF), high‐frequency normalised (HFnorm) and low‐frequency normalised (LFnorm)). Echocardiography indices of cardiac function included; Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), left‐ and right‐ventricular global longitudinal strain (LV‐GLS, and RV GLS), left atrial strain: left atrial reservoir (LAres), left atrial conduit (LAcon) and left atrial contraction (LACT).

Results

The mean values for HRV time‐domain measures were: R‐R (991 ± 176 ms), SDNN (50.9 ± 21.5 ms), and RMSSD (46.8 ± 29.4 ms); and frequency‐domain: LF (727 ± 606 ms2), HF (415 ± 35 ms2), LFnorm (56 ± 19.4) and HFnorm (36.5 ± 18.8). Mean values for indices of cardiac function were LVEF (59.9% ± 2.8%), LV‐GLS (19.2% ± 1.4%), RV‐GLS (21.7% ± 2.7%), LAres (36.8% ± 6.99%), LAcon (26.2% ± 6.95%) and LACT (12.3% ± 3.56%). There was a significant negative relationship between HF and LV‐GLS (r = −0.47, p = 0.01) and RMSSD and LVEF (r = −0.39, p = 0.03) respectively.

Conclusion

Heart rate variability measures such as high frequency power and RMSSD are associated with left ventricle systolic function in healthy individuals.
Leveraging the Red List of Ecosystems for action on coral reefs through the Kunming‐Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework
Authors: Gudka Mishal , Obura David , Treml Eric , Samoilys Melita , Aboud Swaleh A. , Osuka Kennedy Edeye , Mbugua James , Mwaura Jelvas , Karisa Juliet , Knoester Ewout Geerten , Musila Peter , Omar Mohamed , Nicholson Emily
Published: November 2024

Countries have committed to conserving and restoring ecosystems after signing the Kunming‐Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF). The IUCN Red List of Ecosystems (RLE) will serve as a headline indicator to track countries' progress toward achieving this goal. Using Kenyan coral reefs, we demonstrate how nations implementing the GBF can use standardized estimates of ecosystem degradation from RLE assessments to support site‐specific management decisions. We undertook a reef‐by‐reef analysis to evaluate the relative decline of four key ecosystem components over the past 50 years: hard corals, macroalgae, parrotfish, and groupers. Using the two benthic indicators, we also calculated standardized estimates of state to identify reef sites which maintain a better condition through time relative to adjacent sites. Kenya's coral reefs have degraded across all four ecosystem components. At more than half the monitored sites parrotfish and grouper abundance declined by more than 50%, while coral cover and macroalgae‐coral ratio declined by at least 30%. This resulted in an Endangered threat status for coral reefs in Kenya (under criterion D of the RLE). The results can guide management actions related to 9 of the 23 GBF targets. For example, we identified several sites with relatively healthy benthic and fish communities as candidate areas for protection measures under Target 3. The RLE has a key role to play in monitoring and meeting the goals and targets of the GBF, and our work demonstrates how using the wealth of data within these assessments can inform local‐scale ecosystem management and amplify the GBF's impact.
The effect of the endothelin receptor antagonist atrasentan on insulin resistance in phenotypic clusters of patients with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease
Authors: Smeijer Johannes David , Gomez Maria F. , Rossing Peter , Heerspink Hiddo J. L.
Published: November 2024

Aims

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients with a clinical phenotype characterized by a high degree of insulin resistance are at increased risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD). We previously demonstrated that the endothelin receptor antagonist (ERA) atrasentan reduced insulin resistance in T2D. In this study, we compared the effect of atrasentan on insulin resistance across different phenotypic clusters of patients with T2D.

Materials and Methods

We performed a post hoc analysis of the SONAR trial, a randomized, placebo‐controlled trial of the ERA atrasentan in patients with T2D and CKD. Patients were stratified into four previously identified phenotypic clusters: severe insulin‐deficient diabetes (SIDD), severe insulin‐resistant diabetes (SIRD), mild obesity‐related diabetes (MOD) and mild age‐related diabetes (MARD). Changes in insulin resistance, assessed by HOMA‐IR, were compared between the phenotypic clusters using a mixed effects model.

Results

In total, 931 patients were included in the analysis. In the overall population, atrasentan compared to placebo reduced HOMA‐IR by 12.9% [95%CI 3.5,21.4]. This effect of atrasentan was more pronounced in clusters characterized by insulin resistance or deficiency: (SIRD cluster 26.2% [95% CI 3.8,43.3] and SIDD cluster 18.5% [95%CI −3.8,35.9]), although the latter did not reach statistical significance. The effect of atrasentan compared to placebo was less pronounced in the other two clusters (MARD 12.2% [95% CI −1.7,24.12] and MOD −5.3% [95% CI −28.9,13.9]).

Conclusions

Atrasentan significantly improved insulin sensitivity in patients with T2D and CKD, especially in those characterized by high insulin resistance (SIRD cluster). Further studies are warranted to investigate the long‐term clinical outcomes of atrasentan treatment in these distinct phenotypic clusters.
Parental Birth Order and the First Stage of Tracking Into Schools: Evidence From General Upper Secondary Educational Attainment in Finland
Authors: Härtull Camilla , Saarela Jan
Published: November 2024

No previous study on the interrelation between parental birth order and offspring educational attainment has analysed the first stage of tracking into schools, which in many countries is highly selective of persons who aim for university studies. We do so and examine how parental birth order is associated with attainment of general upper secondary education in Finland. Three‐generational register data on the total population are used to assess how the probability of having the matriculation examination at age 20 is associated with parental birth order. The total number of individuals in the child generation is 377,038. We find that the probability of having the matriculation examination decreases with parental birth order. Within‐family analyses using cousin fixed effects models, which account for unobserved characteristics in the extended family, show that having later‐born parents, and in particular a later‐born father, is negatively associated with first tracking into schools. These patterns can solely be attributed to the fact that earlier‐born parents are highly educated and found in higher social classes than later‐born parents. The results largely corroborate findings from similar analyses of length of schooling in Sweden, although the contribution of parental education and social class is notably stronger in our study context.
An Analytical Approach for the Near‐Tip Field Around V‐Notch in Orthotropic Materials
Authors: Esmaeili Adel , Kuhzadmohammadi Amin , Safarabadi Majid
Published: November 2024

This study introduces a novel theoretical framework for determining the notch stress intensity factors (NSIFs) in composite materials. The approach involves utilizing Irwin's complex stress functions for Mode I and Mode II loading conditions. By investigating displacement and singular stress components around V‐notch tips, the research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of NSIFs in composite materials. Three different composite materials were considered in the study to explore the relationship between stress and material properties. The stress singularity order, denoted as
, is determined through eigenequations. Moreover, explicit solutions for displacement and singular stress fields are derived for a more thorough understanding of the behavior around notches in composite materials. To validate the proposed theoretical framework, a rigorous numerical study is conducted using FEM on finite‐size notches. The results obtained from the numerical simulations are compared with theoretical predictions to assess the accuracy and reliability of the developed approach.
Validity of the Oral Hygiene Ability Instrument (OHAI)
Authors: Lindén Ingela Grönbeck , Wenemark Marika , Andersson Pia , Dahlin‐Ivanoff Synneve , Gahnberg Lars , Hägglin Catharina
Published: November 2024

Objective

To evaluate the validity of the newly developed Oral Hygiene Ability Instrument (OHAI), created to assess the cause of any inability of older adults to perform oral hygiene, and to revise the instrument based on the results.

Background

Good oral hygiene is among the most important prophylactic measures for oral health. This applies especially to older adults, among whom risk factors and physical and cognitive barriers are more common and can hamper oral hygiene.

Methods

The OHAI contains (I) an interview, (II) clinical examination, (III) observation of oral hygiene activities and a summarising part. In the study, 149 older adults in three groups participated: stroke, cognitive disorder and general dental patients. Inclusion criteria were to be ≥65 years old, have at least one tooth and to manage oral hygiene without assistance. For criterion validity, sensitivity and specificity were calculated using eight reference instruments. To determine construct validity, we used known group validity, factor analysis and Rasch analysis.

Results

The criterion and construct validity of the OHAI were found to be acceptable to good. In the stroke group, balance and fine motor skills were assessed to affect oral hygiene most; in the cognitive disorder group, it was balance, coordination, spatial ability and cognitive functions. Analyses revealed that one item had no added value and that some response options were not optimal.

Conclusion

The OHAI proved to be valid for the group it is intended for, with only minor revisions needed, resulting in a 32‐item instrument. The OHAI could be a valuable person‐centred tool in prophylactic work with older adults with failing oral hygiene.
Association between self‐reported weight loss and new long‐term care insurance certifications: A 9‐year Japanese older adult cohort study
Authors: Katayose Ryo , Okura Mika , Kinoshita Ayae , Shimamura Sora , Tanaka Saki , Arai Hidenori , Ogita Mihoko
Published: November 2024

Aim

This cohort study aimed to assess weight loss associated with new long‐term care insurance (LTCI) certifications over a 9‐year period, accounting for the competing risk of death.

Methods

We analyzed data from 3749 Japanese individuals aged ≥65 years in Kami Town, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. Weight loss was assessed using the Kihon Checklist during the baseline survey. Data regarding LTCI certifications were collected until March 2022. Cox proportional hazards models were used to calculate adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) of 9‐year LTCI certification because of weight loss, adjusted for confounding factors. To exclude the effect of competing risks, Fine‐Gray regression was used to estimate subdistribution HRs. Subgroup analyses were carried out after the examination of potential interactions between subjective cognitive function, body mass index categories and weight loss.

Results

The incidence rate of new LTCI certifications was 5.16 per 100 person‐years overall – broken down into 7.02 for those with weight loss and 4.97 for those without. The adjusted HR for weight loss to new LTCI certifications was 1.35 (95% CI 1.15–1.59). Considering mortality as a competing risk, the adjusted subdistribution HR was 1.37 (95% CI 1.16–1.61). Conversely, no interaction was observed between weight loss and subjective cognitive function or body mass index categories.

Conclusions

Excluding the effect of mortality, weight loss was identified as a risk factor for new LTCI certifications. However, no interaction was observed between weight loss and subjective cognitive function or body mass index categories. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 1320–1327.
GGR Handbook of Rock and Mineral Analysis Chapter 5 The Inductively Coupled Plasma
Authors: Linge Kathryn L.
Published: November 2024

This chapter (The Inductively Coupled Plasma) is a contribution to the Geostandards and Geoanalytical Research Handbook of Rock and Mineral Analysis – an online textbook that is a fully revised and updated edition of A Handbook of Silicate Rock Analysis (P. J. Potts, 1987, Blackie, Glasgow).

Chapter 5 (from Section 1 of the handbook dealing with fundamentals of measurement and instrument design) is a comprehensive treatment of the inductively coupled plasma – a significant cornerstone of modern geoanalytical spectrometry. The Chapter includes discussion of plasma formation and key components of the ICP source. This is followed by an examination of the challenges of sample introduction into the plasma, particularly focussed on the introduction of liquid samples. The physical structure of the plasma, its robustness and interference effects are fully examined prior to a section dealing with how the operation of plasma is optimised in practise.
Thinking About Drawing As Cause and Consequence: Practical Approaches in Time
Authors: Grennan Simon , Matthews Miranda , Penketh Claire , Wild Carol
Published: November 2024

This paper, a conversation between Simon Grennan, Carol Wild, Miranda Matthews and Claire Penketh, explores drawing as cause and consequence, applying Grennan's thinking to three drawings as a means of exploring and exemplifying ideas discussed in his keynote at the iJADE Conference: Time in 2023. Following an initial introduction to key ideas that were raised for that audience, the paper explores the ways that three particular drawings operate, with temporality offering one of a number of ways that they may be explored. The paper centres on three questions: (i) What might students learn are the different purposes of drawing? (ii) How might students adjudicate the status of drawn traces? (iii) How might students adjudicate the value of drawing activities?
Potential pro‐tumour cytokine in oral squamous cellular carcinoma: IL37
Authors: Yan Ying , Li Jun , He Yungang , Ji Ping , Xu Jie , Li Yong
Published: November 2024

Inflammation and immunosuppression are important features of tumours, including oral squamous cellular carcinoma (OSCC). Interleukin 37 (IL37), a cytokine known for the ability to suppress inflammation and immunity, shows two seemingly contradictory functions in tumours. This study aims to investigate the mechanism that regulates IL37 and its role in OSCC progression. Herein, IL37, CD86 and CD206 in OSCC specimens were determined. Hypoxia, MCC950 and siRNA‐Gasdermin D (GSDMD) were utilised to investigate the mechanism of IL37 production and release. Animal experiments were established to examine the role of IL37 in OSCC growth in vivo. We found the levels of IL37 are elevated in OSCC tissues compared with normal oral mucosa. In cell experiments, hypoxia was proved to be a vital facilitator in IL37 expression and release. Mechanically, hypoxia promoted IL37 expression through the activation of NACHT–LRR–PYD‐containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, and promoted IL37 release via GSDMD. Furthermore, IL37 levels in OSCC specimens are positively correlated with the number of M2 macrophages, but negatively with M1. Further studies revealed IL37 facilitated OSCC progression via promoting macrophage polarization from M1 to M2 and enhancing tumour cell proliferation. Thus, IL37 could be a promising target for OSCC treatment in the future.
Monocyte–lymphocyte ratio predicts cardiovascular diseases death in individuals with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Li Han , Li Yixuan , Guo Wenwen , Liu Xinwei , Wang Yuhao , Zeng Tianshu , Kong Wen
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Previous studies have shown higher cardiovascular mortality risk with higher monocyte–lymphocyte ratio levels in general population. However, the levels of oxidative stress in individuals with type 2 diabetes are higher than those in the general population, which may affect the link between monocyte‐to‐lymphocyte ratio and cardiovascular disease deaths. And the association between the monocyte‐to‐lymphocyte ratio and mortality risk in people with type 2 diabetes still be unknown. This study aimed to investigate the prognostic significance of monocyte‐to‐lymphocyte ratio in type 2 diabetes.

Methods

This analysis involved 2,954 individuals with type 2 diabetes from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999–2010. The National Death Index records through December 31, 2019, was used to determine all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality. The prognostic roles were determined using Cox regression models, restricted cubic spline analysis, and time‐dependent receiver operating characteristic curve analysis.

Results

During an average follow‐up period of 12.4 years, a total of 1,007 deaths occurred, while 252 were due to cardiovascular disease. An elevated monocyte‐to‐lymphocyte ratio level exhibited a significant dose–response relationship with an increased risk of all‐cause mortality (1.34 [95% CI 1.12, 1.60] for all‐cause mortality [P trend = 0.001]). The multivariable‐adjusted HR was 1.81 (95% CI 1.25, 2.63) (P trend = 0.001) for cardiovascular mortality indicating a U‐shaped relationship (P nonlinear = 0.013).

Conclusions

The results of this study indicate a U‐shaped relationship between the monocyte‐to‐lymphocyte ratio and cardiovascular mortality in individuals with diabetes. Both very low and high monocyte‐to‐lymphocyte ratio monocyte‐to‐lymphocyte ratio values were found to be associated with increased cardiovascular mortality risk.
Environmental Factors in Oryctes rhinoceros (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) Breeding
Authors: Shen Meng‐Wei , Chen Hung‐Chuan , Chen Shyi‐Tien
Published: November 2024

The Oryctes rhinoceros (Scarabaeidae: Coleoptera) is a common coleopteran insect in tropical and subtropical areas with many potential uses. Its larvae are commonly found in dead coconut trees and hay piles in the wild and are widely distributed in the northern hemisphere. This study investigates the environmental factors influencing the growth of Oryctes rhinoceros beetle larvae and provides valuable insights into their breeding conditions versus their potential applications. The research examined three key affecting factors of larval development over time, namely, moisture content, growth space and soil content. Results of a pretest run revealed that moisture content, but not the soil content, affected the larval survival greatly. A reasonable confinement on feed moisture (i.e., 30%–60%) was included in the later conducted three‐factor factorial experiment. At last, results of the factorial run suggested that: (1) for a consistent and massive larval breeding, environmental factors, setting moisture content at 60%, larval space at 100 cm3/larva and no soil addition, are deemed appropriate, (2) for nutritional purpose, setting moisture content at 60%, larval space at 300 cm3/larva and no soil addition are recommended, and (3) for soil pollution remediation, setting moisture content at 60%, larval space at 100 cm3/larva and a soil‐to‐feed (S/F) ratio of 2:1 is concluded. This study marks the first engineering breeding exploration of Oryctes rhinoceros larvae, offering practical recommendations for various research purposes and applications.
Foreign Market Investment as a Locus of Response to Adverse Performance
Authors: Abdi Majid , Wang Liang
Published: November 2024

Performance gap recognition derives from social comparison with rivals. We propose that the attribution of these gaps to foreign direct investment (FDI) inadequacy – and thus the likelihood of responding with FDI – is also guided by such social comparisons. Specifically, the performance gap becomes a stronger trigger for foreign market investment when underperforming peers are less engaged in FDI than outperforming counterparts, as this highlights the role of FDI scarcity in explaining the gap. Similarly, a firm's lower FDI involvement increases the performance gap's capacity to trigger FDI by making FDI inadequacy a more plausible explanation, whereas extensive existing FDIs shift the blame away from FDI insufficiency. By examining the locus of investment activity under the performance gap, we show that the associated FDI‐triggering capacity is limited to institutionally proximate environments where the upside potential for addressing the performance gap can be recognized upfront through current models, methods, and resources. Institutionally distant investments, whose potential evolves through experimentation with the local context, become increasingly unlikely as a firm falls behind its rivals. These findings suggest that a firm's response to the performance gap is shaped by inferences about the causes of underperformance and the clarity of an alternative's capacity to address the gap.
A novel automated pipeline to assess MR spectroscopy quality control: Comparing current standards and manual assessment
Authors: Beroukhim Bodhi , McComas Skyler , Joyce Julie M. , Schuhmacher Luisa S. , Koerte Inga , Lan Zhou , Lin Alexander
Published: November 2024

Background and Purpose

The absence of a consensus data quality control (DQC) process inhibits the widespread adoption of MR spectroscopy. Poor DQC can lead to unreliable clinical diagnosis and irreproducible research conclusions. Currently, manual visual assessment or the standard quantitative metrics of signal‐to‐noise, linewidth, and model fit are used as classifiers, but these measures may not be sufficient. To supplement standard metrics, this paper proposes a novel automated DQC pipeline named Visual Evaluative Control Technology Of Resonance Spectroscopy (VECTORS).

Methods

Manual DQC ratings were conducted on 7180 spectra obtained from 110 young adults using short‐echo chemical shift imaging at 3 Tesla. Four reviewers conducted manual ratings on the presence of artifacts and location of metabolites. The ratings were labor intensive, taking over 180 hours. VECTORS was developed to quantify their DQC criteria, detecting artifacts that present as duplicate peaks, vertical shifts, and glutamine + glutamate and myoinositol peak shapes. Run on the same data using a standard laptop, VECTORS only took 2 hours.

Results

The manual ratings were not monotonic to the standard quantitative metrics. VECTORS correctly flagged spectra that the manual ratings missed. VECTORS accurately flagged an additional 126 poor DQ spectra that consensus cutoffs of the standard quantitative metrics deemed good DQ.

Conclusion

Standard quantitative metrics may not account for all DQC artifacts as they are not monotonic to the manual ratings. However, manual ratings are labor intensive, subjective, and irreproducible. VECTORS addresses these issues and should be used in conjunction with standard quantitative metrics.