bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paradiplomacy in Hard Times: Cooperation and Confrontation in Subnational U.S.–China Relations
Authors: Jaros Kyle A , Newland Sara A
Published: June 2024

What becomes of subnational foreign engagement when international tensions rise? State-level U.S.–China relations offer insights into unresolved theoretical questions about the dynamics of what we call “paradiplomacy in hard times.” Whereas U.S. state governments expanded official engagements with China in the early 2010s, many states and cities have scaled back engagement and introduced anti-PRC measures in recent years amid worsening U.S.–China friction. We draw on an original dataset of state-level policy actions toward China (2012–2022) to assess patterns of variation across time and space in subnational U.S.–China relations, showing that subnational foreign relations in times of tension feature distinct dimensions of cooperation and confrontation. Meanwhile, we use a detailed case study of Indiana–China relations to develop insights into drivers of subnational cooperation and confrontation, highlighting the diverging interests and actions of the business community, state officials, federal officials, political parties, and Chinese government counterparts in shaping states’ foreign relations.
Deep learning with a small dataset predicts chromatin remodelling contribution to winter dormancy of apple axillary buds
Authors: Saito Takanori , Wang Shanshan , Ohkawa Katsuya , Ohara Hitoshi , Kondo Satoru
Published: June 2024

Epigenetic changes serve as a cellular memory for cumulative cold recognition in both herbaceous and tree species, including bud dormancy. However, most studies have discussed predicted chromatin structure with respect to histone marks. In the present study, we investigated the structural dynamics of bona fide chromatin to determine how plants recognize prolonged chilling during the initial stage of bud dormancy. The vegetative axillary buds of the ‘Fuji’ apple, which shows typical low temperature-dependent, but not photoperiod, dormancy induction, were used for the chromatin structure and transcriptional change analyses. The results were integrated using a deep-learning model and interpreted using statistical models, including Bayesian estimation. Although our model was constructed using a small dataset of two time points, chromatin remodelling due to random changes was excluded. The involvement of most nucleosome structural changes in transcriptional changes and the pivotal contribution of cold-driven circadian rhythm-dependent pathways regulated by the mobility of cis-regulatory elements were predicted. These findings may help to develop potential genetic targets for breeding species with less bud dormancy to overcome the effects of short winters during global warming. Our artificial intelligence concept can improve epigenetic analysis using a small dataset, especially in non-model plants with immature genome databases.
Potential Mechanisms of Hexaconazole Resistance in Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Zhou Feng , Zhou Xiaoli , Jiao Yan , Han Aohui , Su Haichuan , Wang Longhe , Zhou Huanhuan , Li Weiguo , Liu Runqiang
Published: June 2024

Fusarium head blight (FHB) caused by Fusarium graminearum is a serious fungal disease that can dramatically impact wheat production. At present, disease control is mainly achieved by the use of chemical fungicides. Hexaconazole (IUPAC name: 2(2,4-dichlorophenyl)-1-(1,2,4-triazol-1-yl)hexan-2-ol) is a widely used triazole fungicide, but the sensitivity of F. graminearum to this compound has yet to be established. The current study found that the EC50 values of 83 field isolates of F. graminearum ranged between 0.06 and 4.33 μg/ml, with an average EC50 value of 0.78 μg/ml. Assessment of four hexaconazole-resistant laboratory mutants of F. graminearum revealed that their mycelial growth and pathogenicity were reduced compared with their parental isolates and that asexual reproduction was reduced by resistance to hexaconazole. Meanwhile, the mutants appeared to be more sensitive to abiotic stress associated with SDS and H2O2, while their tolerance to high concentrations of Congo red, and Na+ and K+ increased. Molecular analysis revealed numerous point mutations in the FgCYP51 target genes that resulted in amino acid substitutions, including L92P and N123S in FgCYP51A, as well as M331V, F62L, Q252R, A412V, and V488A in FgCYP51B, and S28L, S256A, V307A, D287G, and R515I in FgCYP51C, three of which (S28L, S256A, and V307A) were conserved in all of the resistant mutants. Furthermore, the expression of the FgCYP51 genes in resistant strains was found to be significantly (P < 0.05) reduced compared with their sensitive parental isolates. Positive cross-resistance was found between hexaconazole and metconazole and flutriafol, as well as with the diarylamine fungicide fluazinam, but not with propiconazole, and the phenylpyrrole fungicide fludioxonil, or with tebuconazole, which actually exhibited negative cross-resistance. These results provide valuable insight into resistant mechanisms to triazole fungicides in F. graminearum, as well as the appropriate selection of fungicide combinations for the control of FHB to ensure optimal wheat production.
Novel Insights on Group B Streptococcus in Pregnancy
Authors: Litman Ethan , Young Brett , Spiel Melissa
Published: June 2024

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a frequent colonizer of the human genital and gastrointestinal tract. In pregnant or postpartum persons, colonization is often asymptomatic and can contribute to infectious morbidity in both the parturient and the newborn. The prevalence of invasive GBS disease has dramatically decreased over the past 3 decades. However, despite standardized clinical algorithms, GBS disease remains a public health concern. Our review summarizes the GBS bacteria pathophysiology, morbidity, management guidelines, and summarizes ongoing research. While novel testing and parturient vaccination are being explored, barriers exist, preventing guideline updates and widespread implementation.
Induction chemotherapy followed by transoral laser microsurgery with or without adjuvant therapy for advanced hypopharyngeal cancer patients: A preliminary result
Authors: Chang Chia-Fan , Wang Ling-Wei , Yang Muh-Hwa , Chu Pen-Yuan
Published: June 2024

Background:

Hypopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPSCC) has the poorest prognosis among head and neck cancers. Its treatment may significantly affect breathing, speaking, and swallowing. Induction chemotherapy (ICT) followed by transoral laser microsurgery (TLM) could reduce these adverse effects and achieve good outcomes.

Methods:

This was a retrospective study of 11 patients with advanced HPSCC. All patients underwent ICT and TLM alongside tailor-made adjuvant therapy based on the pathological features.

Results:

Adjuvant therapy was done in seven of 11 patients (64%). The 3-year disease-free survival and laryngeal preservation rates were 78% and 91%, respectively. At the last follow-up, 10 of 11 patients (91%) had no tracheostomy or feeding tube.

Conclusion:

ICT followed by TLM is an appropriate treatment for good tumor control in select patients with advanced HPSCC while preserving laryngeal function.
Factors Affecting Research Participation Among Specialist Dementia Nurses
Authors: Pepper Amy , Wolverson Emma , Harrison-Dening Karen
Published: June 2024

Background

Research involvement and engagement is a vital aspect of nursing practice. However, research in dementia care remains limited compared to research focused on finding a cure, presenting a significant gap that specialist dementia nurses (Admiral Nurses) can help bridge by participating in research themselves and facilitating recruitment to research.

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the research involvement and support needs of Admiral Nurses and identify factors affecting their participation in research. This research is particularly timely as Dementia UK has launched its first research strategy, which necessitates strengthening research capacity within Admiral Nursing.

Methods

We used a mixed methods convergent parallel synthesis design, simultaneously collecting quantitative and qualitative data. An online survey was conducted in January 2023, targeting current Admiral Nurses across the United Kingdom. The survey included questions addressing demographics, research experience, goals, barriers, facilitators, and support needs. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics, frequencies, univariate analyses, and thematic analysis.

Results

A positive relationship was found between the highest level of academic achievement and current or previous research involvement, as well as interest in becoming involved in research in the future. Although most nurses recognized the importance of research, only half reported current or past research involvement, indicating a need for increased support. A lack of access and opportunities for peer discussion hindered engagement with research findings. Time constraints, lack of support, and low confidence were major barriers to research involvement. Support needs varied but included mentorship, coaching, and the potential for a community of practice for research.

Discussion

This survey of Admiral Nurses sheds light on their research involvement, support needs, and barriers to participation. Recognizing the significance of research while identifying challenges and support requirements is crucial for enhancing research capacity among these specialized nurses. This study contributes valuable insights into the world of specialist dementia nursing and lays the foundation for future strategies to increase research engagement in this field.
Awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension among women at risk or living with HIV in the US South
Authors: Blair Jessica , Kempf Mirjam-Colette , Dionne Jodie A. , Causey-Pruitt Zenoria , Wise Jenni M. , Jackson Elizabeth A. , Muntner Paul , Hanna David B. , Kizer Jorge R. , Fischl Margaret A. , Ofotokun Igho , Ramirez Catalina , Gange Stephen J. , Brill Ilene K. , Levitan Emily B.
Published: June 2024

Objectives:

Timely control of hypertension is vital to prevent comorbidities. We evaluated the association of race/ethnicity and HIV infection with incident hypertension outcomes, including awareness, treatment, and control.

Design:

We evaluated cisgender women living with HIV and sociodemographically matched women living without HIV recruited into four Southern sites of the Women's Interagency HIV Study (WIHS) (2013–2019).

Methods:

We calculated measurements of the time to four events or censoring: incident hypertension, hypertension awareness, hypertension treatment, and hypertension control. Hazard ratios for race/ethnicity and HIV status were calculated for each outcome using Cox proportional-hazards models adjusted for sociodemographic, behavioral, and clinical risk factors.

Results:

Among 712 women, 56% were hypertensive at baseline. Forty-five percentage of the remaining women who were normotensive at baseline developed incident hypertension during follow-up. Non-Hispanic white and Hispanic women had faster time to hypertension control compared with non-Hispanic black women (P = 0.01). In fully adjusted models, women living with HIV who were normotensive at baseline had faster time to treatment compared with normotensive women living without HIV (P = 0.04).

Conclusion:

In our study of women in the US South, non-Hispanic black women became aware of their hypertension diagnosis more quickly than non-Hispanic white and Hispanic women but were slower to control their hypertension. Additionally, women living with HIV more quickly treated and controlled their hypertension compared with women living without HIV.
ACTIVATION OF KLOTHO/SIRT1 SIGNALING PATHWAY ATTENUATES MYOCARDIAL ISCHEMIA REPERFUSION INJURY IN DIABETIC RATS
Authors: Qiu Zhen , Qi Biao , Li Lu , Cui Jiahui , Liu Min , Xia Zhongyuan
Published: June 2024

Diabetes and myocardial ischemia reperfusion (MIR) injury are characterized by oxidative stress, inflammation, autophagy disorders, and cardiac contractile dysfunction. Klotho and SIRT1 regulate the level of oxidative stress to participate in the regulation of many physiological functions such as cell survival, aging, apoptosis, autophagy, mitochondrial biogenesis, and inflammation. We hypothesized that the activation of Klotho/SIRT1 signaling pathway could attenuate MIR in diabetic rats. Type 1 diabetes and MIR injury model were established to examine this hypothesis in vivo. Primary rat cardiomyocytes and H9c2 cells were exposed to high glucose conditions and hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) insult in vitro. Hemodynamic parameters of heart function, myocardial infarct size, oxidative stress, markers of MIR injury or cell viability, and the mRNA and protein expression of Klotho and SIRT1 were measured. There was lower expression of Klotho and SIRT1 in diabetic MIR hearts than in nondiabetic rats, as well as significantly increased oxidative stress levels and decreased autophagy levels. Recombinant Klotho (rKlotho) protein and the SIRT1 agonist SRT1720 could significantly attenuate MIR injury in diabetes by activating Klotho/SIRT1 signaling pathway to reduce oxidative stress and restore autophagy levels. These findings suggest that the Klotho/SIRT1 pathway plays an important role in MIR injury in diabetic rats, and rKlotho protein and agonist SRT1720 have therapeutic potential for alleviating diabetic myocardial IR injury by activating Klotho/SIRT1 to reduce oxidative stress and restore autophagy levels.
Sex-based Disparities in Liver Transplantation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma and the Impact of the Growing Burden of NASH
Authors: Koh Jia Hong , Chee Douglas , Ng Cheng Han , Wijarnpreecha Karn , Muthiah Mark , Tan Darren Jun Hao , Lim Wen Hui , Zeng Rebecca Wenling , Koh Benjamin , Xuan Eunice Tan Xiang , Bonney Glenn , Iyer Shridhar , Young Dan Yock , Nakamura Toru , Takahashi Hirokazu , Noureddin Mazen , Siddiqui Mohammad Shadab , Simon Tracey G. , Loomba Rohit , Huang Daniel Q.
Published: June 2024

Background.

The cause of liver disease is changing, but its impact on liver transplantation (LT) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in women and men is unclear. We performed a nationwide study to assess the prevalence and posttransplant survival outcomes of the various causes of liver disease in women and men with HCC.

Methods.

Data were obtained from the United Network for Organ Sharing database from 2000 to 2022. Data related to the listing, transplant, waitlist mortality, and posttransplant mortality for HCC were extracted. The proportion of HCC related to the various causes of liver disease among LT candidates and recipients and posttransplant survival were compared between women and men.

Results.

A total of 51 721 individuals (39 465 men, 12 256 women) with HCC were included. From 2000 to 2022, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) was the fastest-growing cause of liver disease among female LT candidates with HCC (P < 0.01), followed by alcohol-associated liver disease. NASH overtook chronic hepatitis C as the leading cause of liver disease in 2020 and 2022 among waitlisted women and men with HCC, respectively. Female patients with HCC spent a significantly longer time on the LT waitlist compared with male patients (β: 8.73; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.91-14.54). Female patients with HCC from alcohol-associated liver disease also have a lower probability of receiving LT (subdistribution hazard ratio: 0.90; 95% CI, 0.82-0.99). Among transplant recipients with NASH HCC, female sex was associated with lower posttransplant mortality compared with male sex (hazard ratio: 0.79; 95% CI, 0.70-0.89; P < 0.01).

Conclusions.

Women have a significantly longer waitlist duration compared with men. NASH is now the leading cause of liver disease among both female and male LT candidates and recipients with HCC.
Shared genetic architecture and causal pathways between attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and restless legs syndrome
Authors: Li Fu-Jia , Li Jin-Yu , Zhang Ru-Yu , Liu Xuan-Jing , Lv Bing-Chen , Zhang Tao , Liu Yu-Ning , Zhang Zi-Xuan , Zhang Wei , Cui Gui-Yun , Xu Chuan-Ying
Published: June 2024

Previous studies have revealed a significant overlap between ADHD and RLS populations, with shared pathological mechanisms such as dopaminergic function and iron metabolism deficits. However, the genetic mechanisms underlying these connections remain unclear. In our study, we conducted a genome-wide genetic correlation analysis to confirm a shared genetic structure between ADHD and RLS. We identified five pleiotropic loci through PLACO analysis, with colocalization analysis revealing a shared causal genetic variant, rs12336113, located in an intron of the PTPRD gene within one of these loci. Additionally, we identified 14 potential shared genes and biological pathways between these diseases. Protein-protein interaction analysis demonstrated close interactions among six genes: PTPRD, MEIS1, MAP2K5, SKOR1, BTBD9, and TOX3. We further investigated gene-driven causal pathways using univariable Mendelian randomization (MR), multivariable MR, and Network MR analyses. Our findings indicate that ADHD may indirectly promote the onset of RLS by advancing the age of first birth, while RLS could indirectly contribute to ADHD by reducing fractional anisotropy in body of corpus callosum. Notably, an increase in radial diffusivity, rather than a decrease in axial diffusivity, played a crucial role in this process. In conclusion, our research supports a close genetic link between ADHD and RLS, identifying PTPRD as the most likely pleiotropic gene between these conditions. Moreover, ADHD may indirectly promote RLS onset by advancing the age of first birth, while RLS may indirectly promote ADHD onset by causing demyelination in body of corpus callosum.
Long-distance nuclear matrix elements for neutrinoless double-beta decay from lattice QCD
Authors: Davoudi Zohreh , Detmold William , Fu Zhenghao , Grebe Anthony V. , Jay William , Murphy David , Oare Patrick , Shanahan Phiala E. , Wagman Michael L. ,   NPLQCD Collaboration
Published: June 2024

Neutrinoless double-beta (0νββ) decay is a heretofore unobserved process which, if observed, would imply that neutrinos are Majorana particles. Interpretations of the stringent experimental constraints on 0νββ-decay half-lives require calculations of nuclear matrix elements. This work presents the first lattice quantum chromodynamics (LQCD) calculation of the matrix element for 0νββ decay in a multinucleon system, specifically the nn→ppee transition, mediated by a light left-handed Majorana neutrino propagating over nuclear-scale distances. This calculation is performed with quark masses corresponding to a pion mass of mπ=806  MeV at a single lattice spacing and volume. The statistically cleaner Σ−→Σ+ee transition is also computed in order to investigate various systematic uncertainties. The prospects for matching the results of LQCD calculations onto a nuclear effective field theory to determine a leading-order low-energy constant relevant for 0νββ decay with a light Majorana neutrino are investigated. This work, therefore, sets the stage for future calculations at physical values of the quark masses that, combined with effective field theory and nuclear many-body studies, will provide controlled theoretical inputs to experimental searches of 0νββ decay.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Quark anomalous magnetic moment in an extreme magnetic background from perturbative QCD
Authors: Fraga Eduardo S. , Palhares Leticia F. , Villavicencio Cristian
Published: June 2024

We compute the one-loop QCD correction to the photon-quark-antiquark vertex in an extremely strong magnetic background, i.e., one in which eB is much larger than all other mass scales. We resort to the lowest-Landau level approximation, and consider on-shell fermions. We find that the total magnetic moment is such that the anomalous magnetic moment contributes to the electric part ∼iE3σ3, the other contributions to B·σ and iE·σ⊥ being completely suppressed. We show results for the anomalous magnetic moment of quarks up and down, scaled by their values in the vacuum, as a function of the external magnetic field, considering dressed gluons and a renormalization scale μMS¯=|eB|.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Theory of Compression Channels for Postselected Quantum Metrology
Authors: Yang Jing
Published: June 2024

The postselected quantum metrological scheme is especially advantageous when the final measurements are either very noisy or expensive in practical experiments. In this Letter, we put forward a general theory on the compression channels in postselected quantum metrology. We define the basic notions characterizing the compression quality and illuminate the underlying structure of lossless compression channels. Previous experiments on postselected optical phase estimation and weak-value amplification are shown to be particular cases of this general theory. Furthermore, for two categories of bipartite systems, we show that the compression loss can be made arbitrarily small even when the compression channel acts only on one subsystem. These findings can be employed to distribute quantum measurements so that the measurement noise and cost are dramatically reduced.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
High-accuracy measurement, advanced theory and analysis of the evolution of satellite transitions in manganese Kα using XR-HERFD
Authors: Sier Daniel , Dean Jonathan W. , Tran Nicholas T. T. , Kirk Tony , Tran Chanh Q. , Mosselmans J. Frederick W. , Diaz-Moreno Sofia , Chantler Christopher T.
Published: June 2024

Here, the novel technique of extended-range high-energy-resolution fluorescence detection (XR-HERFD) has successfully observed the n = 2 satellite in manganese to a high accuracy. The significance of the satellite signature presented is many hundreds of standard errors and well beyond typical discovery levels of three to six standard errors. This satellite is a sensitive indicator for all manganese-containing materials in condensed matter. The uncertainty in the measurements has been defined, which clearly observes multiple peaks and structure indicative of complex physical quantum-mechanical processes. Theoretical calculations of energy eigenvalues, shake-off probability and Auger rates are also presented, which explain the origin of the satellite from physical n = 2 shake-off processes. The evolution in the intensity of this satellite is measured relative to the full Kα spectrum of manganese to investigate satellite structure, and therefore many-body processes, as a function of incident energy. Results demonstrate that the many-body reduction factor S
0
2 should not be modelled with a constant value as is currently done. This work makes a significant contribution to the challenge of understanding many-body processes and interpreting HERFD or resonant inelastic X-ray scattering spectra in a quantitative manner.
Incorporating face-to-face and online learning features to propose blended learning framework for Post-COVID classrooms in India
Authors: Qamar Md. Tauseef , Malik Abdullah , Yasmeen Juhi , Sadiqe Mohd. , Ajmal Mohd
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study examines learner readiness and satisfaction with blended learning systems in India’s post-vaccine classrooms, focusing on the relationship between face-to-face (F2F), online learning (OL), and blended learning (BL) indicators and identifying which predictors within these systems most significantly affect learners’ satisfaction (LS).

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey was conducted with 451 students from both public and private universities in India. The data were analyzed using factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis, followed by multiple regression to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The findings reveal a significant positive correlation between learners’ satisfaction and online learning and blended learning, with β values of 28.3 and 27.2, bearing a p-value of 0.000. In contrast, face-to-face (F2F) learning was insignificant, with a β value of 0.070 and a p-value of 0.119. These insights underscore the effectiveness of online and blended learning formats in enhancing learner satisfaction in higher education while also suggesting a re-evaluation of the role of traditional F2F learning methods. The research supports the integration of online learning in higher education due to its balanced mix of teacher-led and student-centered instruction, alongside the practical benefits of reduced travel costs and access to independent study resources.

Practical implications

This study provides insights into student perceptions and attitudes towards blended learning in India’s post-vaccine classrooms. It highlights the importance of tailoring blended learning strategies to meet colleges’ and universities’ diverse learning needs and goals in this evolving context. The findings serve as a valuable resource for educators and administrators, aiding in designing effective blended learning frameworks suited explicitly for higher education in India.

Originality/value

While there is extensive literature on F2F, OL, and BL, limited research compares these learning approaches and their impact on learner satisfaction within the Indian higher education context. This study fills this gap by providing valuable insights for shaping educational strategies in India’s post-vaccine classrooms.
Tweeting for office: decoding digital relevance in Spanish general elections 2011–2023
Authors: Alonso-Magdaleno María Isabel , García-García Jesús
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The paper analyses the role and impact of Twitter in Spanish political communication, specifically focusing on how the platform influences the visibility and relevance of political candidates' messages during various election campaigns and across various political dimensions – government vs. opposition, traditional vs. populist, and left-wing vs. right-wing.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs a longitudinal quantitative analysis perspective regarding the number and impact of messages posted by the main candidates in the six general elections held in Spain during the period 2011–2023. The tweets were automatically collected through the Twitter API for 54 days, between the call for elections and voting. The equalisation versus normalisation framework regarding social media is used.

Findings

The findings showed that the dissemination of messages on Twitter exhibited a skewed distribution characterized by notable differences in the unequal relevance of tweets between candidates on the left-right and traditional-populist axes, especially among the tweets with the highest impact. Tweets from opposition and populist candidates presented a greater level of relevance than those from government and conventional candidates. No discernible differences were identified along the ideological spectrum, indicating a high degree of cross-partisan engagement on social media. Findings indicate that opposition and populist candidates are strategically utilising Twitter, challenging the notion of normalisation and emphasising the equalising potential of social networks.

Originality/value

The study offers a long-term view of political communication, which is relatively rare in social media research, often focused on shorter time frames or single election cycles. The multidimensional comparison provides nuanced insights into how different political identities and affiliations are manifested and engaged with on social media.
Keeping pace with competitors in CSR: from a perspective of competitive dynamics
Authors: Zou Hailiang , Yang Xiyuan , Wang Ruijing
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the antecedents of corporate social responsibility (CSR) from the perspective of competitive dynamics and proposes a correlation of CSR between competing firms because rival firms’ engagement in CSR induces the focal firm’s catch-up to keep pace with them.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a sample of Chinese listed companies through the lens of firm dyads, and drawing on the awareness-motivation-capability (AMC) framework, a set of contingencies of firms’ competitive catch-up in CSR are examined, including the visibility of its competitors, the interdependence between the focal firm and its competitors and the focal firm’s resource slack.

Findings

The empirical results reveal that a focal firm’s CSR is in a positive relationship with that of its competitors, which is strengthened by the visibility of its competitors, the interdependence between the focal firm and its competitors, and is affected by the focal firm’s resource slack.

Originality/value

These findings uncover the interplay of CSR among competitors, enriching our understanding of its antecedents by extending the AMC framework to the CSR context.
Islamic destination to millennials in Bandung: Islamic attributes and destination image on tourist satisfaction with visiting decision as mediator
Authors: Suryawardani Bethani , Wulandari Astri , Marcelino Dandy , Millanyani Heppy
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The study aims to explore millennial tourist satisfaction in an Islamic tourism destination, which this research will clarify the relationship between Islamic attributes and destination image on visiting decisions and their influence on tourist satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

The quantitative research approach with exploratory by applying structural equation model techniques, which method of collection data by surveys. Purposive sampling was used to 400 Muslim millennials tourist who visit Islamic destination in Bandung, Indonesia. The questionnaire used in this study based on a review of previous studies.

Findings

The findings show that a destination’s Islamic attribute has substantial influence on destination image and millennials’ choice to visit the tourist site. Then Islamic attributes have positive influence on millennials’ willingness to visit Bandung as visitors. A strong identification with a location’s destination image has been demonstrated a positive impact on visiting destination. This research revealed that the visiting choice had a favorable and substantial influence on Islamic visitor satisfaction through visiting decision to Bandung.

Research limitations/implications

This research focuses on millennials tourist whoever visit Bandung tourist destination, the research findings may be limited in their generalizability. As a result, researchers are encouraged to explore the offered hypotheses further.

Practical implications

Islamic tourism business players who are targeting the millennial generation as their target market are urged to pay close attention the Islamic attributes and destination image, because according to the research results. These variables have an impact on visiting decisions and tourist satisfaction. Then the online travel agent should maintain the destination image by promoting the destination in offline and online media.

Social implications

The findings of this study are expected to enrich the literature on consumer behavior, especially in the tourism industry in the Tourism 4.0 era.

Originality/value

To the best authors’ knowledge, the research model is never been explore by other researchers in the field of Islamic tourism literatures. For further studies, the authors’ can modify this research by using different objects so that comparisons can be made and using other determinant factors that can affect the satisfaction of Muslim tourists.
From phenomenology to items: a mixed method approach to develop a scale of workplace Islamic da’wah
Authors: Liaqat Hajira , Ahmed Ishfaq , Yousaf Sheikh Usman
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims to develop a Workplace Islamic Da’wah (WID) scale, which measures the extent to which an organization incorporates the sharing of religious teachings at work through words and artifacts. WID is theoretically grounded in religious communication theory and is intended for use in organizational settings.

Design/methodology/approach

A sequential mixed methods approach was used to develop a scale of WID. Qualitative data were organized into constructs and items using transcendental phenomenology. These items were then refined into a multidimensional construct through expert validity, face validity, exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis.

Findings

The research findings confirm the validity and reliability of WID as a multidimensional construct, comprising compulsive da’wah, objectics da’wah and impulsive da’wah.

Research limitations/implications

This study provides implications for survey researchers interested in developing a scale using mixed methods and for practitioners who can use these findings to streamline their efforts in planning and implementing an Islamic da’wah-based model.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first of its kind, presenting the operationalization of WID that can be used for future empirical research endeavors in this and related fields.
A rise in the prominence of business? The political role of corporations in Denmark over two decades
Authors: Binderkrantz Anne S. , Bülow Magnus , Christiansen Peter M. , Helbo Emma
Published: June 2024

Recent research has documented a significant and rising presence of corporations in politics. In this letter, we ask to what extent corporations in Denmark have increased their political activity and access to political arenas during the last two decades. The analysis draws on two surveys among large corporations conducted in 2001 and 2022. This allows us to compare the extent to which corporations use tactics such as targeting the news media as well as their reported levels of contact to public authorities. We find that corporations today are engaged in broader questions and use a wider set of strategies than around the turn of the century, but also that their contacts to public administrative authorities have decreased and that a larger share of corporations are only active through collective organisations. This provides an important corrective to the existing image of a uniform rise in the political activities of private corporations.
Comparison between SeHCAT test and clinical response to cholestyramine in patients with chronic diarrhea and high suspicion of bile acid malabsorption: A single‐center prospective study
Authors: Schiepatti Annalisa , Bossert Irene , Cincotta Marta , Zanini Carolina Arianna , Maimaris Stiliano , D'Ambrosio Daniela , Trifirò Giuseppe , Biagi Federico
Published: June 2024

Objectives

We aimed to evaluate the clinical response to cholestyramine in patients with functional chronic diarrhea and a high clinical suspicion of bile‐acid diarrhea (BAD) investigated with 75‐selenium homocholic acid taurine (SeHCAT) test.

Methods

Adult patients attending our outpatient clinic between January and December 2021 for chronic diarrhea with suspicion of BAD were proposed SeHCAT testing and a therapeutic trial of cholestyramine 4–8 g daily. Clinical response to cholestyramine was evaluated at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months. Clinical and demographic data were analyzed according to SeHCAT test results.

Results

Among the 50 patients with chronic diarrhea and clinical suspicion of BAD, 13 (26.0%) refused either SeHCAT testing or cholestyramine therapy. Finally, 37 patients (31 females, age 44 ± 14 years) agreed to undergo SeHCAT and were started on cholestyramine (median follow‐up 14 months [interquartile range 6–16 months]). Initial response to cholestyramine was similar in patients with positive and negative SeHCAT test results, but improved over time in those with a positive test result. Long‐term response (100% vs 65.2%, P = 0.02) and necessity of maintenance therapy for symptom control were more common in those with positive SeHCAT test result (71.4% vs 26.1%, P = 0.02). However, response to cholestyramine was also frequent in patients with a negative test result.

Conclusions

The SeHCAT test accurately identifies patients with BAD who benefit from long‐term cholestyramine treatment. Nevertheless, cholestyramine may be also effective in patients with chronic diarrhea but negative SeHCAT test result.
Elevated Plasma Levels of Arginines During Labor Among Women with Spontaneous Preterm Birth: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Akhter Tansim , Hedeland Mikael , Bergquist Jonas , Ubhayasekera Kumari , Larsson Anders , Byström Ludvig , Kullinger Merit , Skalkidou Alkistis
Published: June 2024

Problem

Preterm birth (PTB) is a leading cause of infant mortality and morbidity. The pathogenesis of PTB is complex and involves many factors, including socioeconomy, inflammation and infection. Asymmetric dimethylarginine, ADMA and symmetric dimethylarginine, SDMA are involved in labor as inhibitors of nitric oxide, a known relaxant of the uterine smooth muscles. Arginines are scarcely studied in relation to PTB and we aimed to investigate arginines (ADMA, SDMA and L‐arginine) in women with spontaneous PTB and term birth.

Methods of the Study

The study was based on data from the population‐based, prospective cohort BASIC study conducted in Uppsala County, Sweden, between September 2009 and November 2018. Arginines were analyzed by Ultra‐High Performance Liquid Chromatography using plasma samples taken at the onset of labor from women with spontaneous PTB (n = 34) and term birth (n = 45). We also analyzed the inflammation markers CRP, TNF‐R1 and TNF‐R2 and GDF‐15.

Results

Women with spontaneous PTB had higher plasma levels of ADMA (p < 0.001), and L‐Arginine (p = 0.03). In addition, inflammation marker, TNF‐R1 (p = 0.01) was higher in spontaneous PTB compared to term birth. Further, in spontaneous PTB, no significant correlations could be observed when comparing levels of arginines with inflammation markers, except ADMA versus CRP.

Conclusions

These findings provide novel evidence for the potential involvement of arginines in the pathogenesis of spontaneous PTB and it seems that arginine levels at labor vary independently of several inflammatory markers. Further research is warranted to investigate the potential of arginines as therapeutic targets in the prevention and management of spontaneous PTB.
Evans syndrome: Disease awareness and clinical management in a nation‐wide ITP‐NET survey
Authors: Fattizzo Bruno , Carrai Valentina , Crugnola Monica , Baldacci Erminia , Bellini Marta , Bosi Costanza , Buzzatti Elisa , Caramazza Domenica , Carli Giuseppe , Carpenedo Monica , Clissa Cristina , Danesin Cristina , De Paolis Maria Rosaria , Giannotta Juri Alessandro , Innao Vanessa , Marchetti Monia , Markovic Uros , Morotti Alessandro , Napolitano Mariasanta , Patriarca Andrea , Pettine Loredana , Poloni Antonella , Rivolti Elena , Rossi Elena , Santeremo Teresa Maria , Santoro Cristina , Zannier Maria Elena , Zaja Francesco , Cantoni Silvia , Palandri Francesca , De Stefano Valerio
Published: June 2024

Evans syndrome (ES) is rare and mostly treated on a “case‐by‐case” basis and no guidelines are available. With the aim of assessing disease awareness and current management of adult ES, a structured survey was administered to 64 clinicians from 50 Italian participating centers. Clinicians had to be involved in the management of autoimmune cytopenias and were enrolled into the ITP‐NET initiative. The survey included domains on epidemiology, diagnosis, and therapy of ES and was designed to capture current practice and suggested work‐up and management. Thirty clinicians who had followed a median of 5 patients (1–45)/15 years responded. The combination of AIHA plus ITP was more common than the ITP/AIHA with neutropenia (p < .001) and 25% of patients had an associated condition, including lymphoproliferative syndromes, autoimmune diseases, or primary immunodeficiencies. The agreement of clinicians for each diagnostic test is depicted (i.e., 100% for blood count and DAT; only 40% for anti‐platelets and anti‐neutrophils; 77% for bone marrow evaluation). Most clinicians reported that ES requires a specific approach compared to isolated autoimmune cytopenias, due to either a more complex pathogenesis and a higher risk of relapse and thrombotic and infectious complications. The heterogeneity of treatment choices among different physicians suggests the need for broader harmonization.
HCV‐HIV co‐infection in people who inject drugs: Barriers to treatment and cure of HCV infection in the era of DAAs, a prospective study in Athens, Greece
Authors: Basoulis Dimitris , Mastrogianni Elpida , Eliadi Irene , Papadopoulou Martha , Psichogiou Mina
Published: June 2024

Objectives

HIV/hepatitis C virus (HCV) co‐infection among people who inject drugs (PWID) remains a global health problem. The goal of our study was to evaluate, in a real‐world setting, success rates of sustained virological response (SVR) using direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) to treat a population of PWID living with HCV/HIV.

Methods

This was a prospective single‐center observational study. We collected demographic, socioeconomic, and clinical data pertaining to HIV and HCV infection in PWID with several barriers to care. We identified risk factors for SVR failure.

Results

Among 130 individuals retained to HIV care, we planned HCV treatment in 119/130 (91.5%); 106/119 (89.1%) started treatment with DAAs and 100/106 (94.3%) completed treatment. People not starting treatment were more often in active opioid drug use (odds ratio [OR] 0.25; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.07–0.97, p = 0.045) and benzodiazepine abuse (OR 0.25; 95% CI 0.07–0.95, p = 0.042). Only 86/100 (86%) were tested for SVR at 12 weeks (SVR12) and 72/86 (83.7%) achieved SVR. PWID in opioid substitution programmes tended to return for SVR12 testing more often (54.7% vs. 30%, p = 0.081). Individuals in active opioid drug use (OR 0.226; 95% CI 0.064–0.793, p = 0.02) or with poor adherence (OR 0.187; 95% CI 0.043–0.814, p = 0.025) were less likely to achieve SVR. At the end of our study period, 113/119 (95%) treatment‐eligible patients remained alive. HCV infection was cured in 68/113 (61.1%) people.

Conclusions

Our findings underscore the importance of prioritizing combatting substance use to achieve HCV elimination goals. A systematic approach with effort to overcome barriers to receiving and completing treatment and encourage to enrol in opioid substitution programmes if not possible to completely abstain from use, can help increase chances of HCV cure.
Adverse Effects Related to Paediatric Influenza Vaccination and Its Influence on Vaccination Acceptability. The FLUTETRA Study: A Survey Conducted in the Region of Murcia, Spain
Authors: Zornoza Moreno Matilde , Pérez Martín Jaime Jesús , Gómez Moreno María Cruz , Valcárcel Gómez María del Carmen , Pérez Martínez Marta , Tornel Miñarro Francisca Isabel
Published: June 2024

Background

During the 2022–23 season, three autonomous communities recommended influenza vaccination for all children between 6 and 59 months. The objective is to evaluate the adverse effects associated with the administered influenza vaccines in the Region of Murcia, as well as their influence on the recommendation of the same to acquaintances or repetition in future seasons.

Material and Methods

Cross‐sectional descriptive study with an online questionnaire sent to the parents of vaccinated minors of 6–23 months of age receiving inactivated intramuscular vaccine (IIV) or 24–59 months of age receiving live‐attenuated intranasal vaccine (LAIV).

Results

Among 4971 surveys received, the most common adverse effect for LAIV and IIV was runny nose (40.90%) and local pain (31.94%), respectively. Sixty percent of adverse effects lasted ≤ 1 day, and around 10% lasted ≥ 3 days. The interference of adverse effects with the minor's daily life was very infrequent (3.32%), as was the need for visiting the medical office (2.68%). Overall, 96.44% of parents would recommend influenza vaccination to friends and relatives after the experience. Only 3.56% would not recommend it, while 1.68% would not vaccinate their child against influenza again. The most frequently cited reason being adverse effects.

Conclusions

Our study shows the safety of influenza vaccines. Despite the low impact of adverse effects, they influence some parents in their intention to continue vaccinating or recommending it to acquaintances, which remarks the need to reinforce the information given to parents so that this fact does not influence decision‐making.
Reducing low‐value imaging—A qualitative evaluation of a pilot intervention in Norway
Authors: Andersen Eivind Richter , Hofmann Bjørn Morten , Brandsæter Ingrid Øfsti , Kjelle Elin
Published: June 2024

Rational

Low‐value radiological imaging threatens patient safety and efficient use of limited health resources. It is important to evaluate measures for reducing low‐value utilisation, to learn and to improve. Accordingly, the objective of this study was to qualitatively evaluate a pilot intervention for reducing low‐value imaging in Norway.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted aimed at describing stakeholders' experience with a multicomponent pilot intervention consisting of a standardised procedure for referral assessment, a standardised return letter, and information about the value and possible risks of magnetic resonance imaging‐examinations to the public. Data were analysed in line with qualitative content analysis with a deductive approach.

Results

Seven healthcare providers were interviewed, including two radiologists, two radiographers, one manual therapist, one practice consultant and one general practitioner. Data analysis yielded four categories: (1) information and reception, (2) referral‐ and assessment processes, (3) suggestions for improvement and facilitation and (4) outcomes of the pilot intervention.

Conclusions

The pilot intervention was deemed acceptable, feasible, engaging and relevant. Specific training in the use of the new procedure was suggested to improve the intervention. The simple design, as well as the positive acceptance demonstrated and the few resources needed, make the pilot intervention and methodology highly relevant for other settings or when aiming to reduce the number of other low‐value radiology examinations.
Best practices for collecting and preserving marine mammal biological samples in the ‘omics era
Authors: Van Cise Amy M. , Switzer Alexandra D. , Apprill Amy , Champagne Cory D. , Chittaro Paul M. , Dudek Natasha K. , Gavery Mackenzie R. , Hancock‐Hanser Brittany L. , Harmon Alaina C. , Jaffe Alexander L. , Kellar Nicholas M. , Miller Carolyn A. , Morin Phillip A. , Nelms Sarah E. , Robertson Kelly M. , Schultz Irvin R. , Timmins‐Schiffman Emma , Unal Ebru , Parsons Kim M.
Published: June 2024

The recent rise of ‘omics and other molecular research technologies alongside improved techniques for tissue preservation have broadened the scope of marine mammal research. Collecting biological samples from wild marine mammals is both logistically challenging and expensive. To enhance the power of marine mammal research, great effort has been made in both the field and the laboratory to ensure the scientific integrity of samples from collection through processing, supporting the long‐term use of precious samples across a broad range of studies. However, identifying the best methods of sample preservation can be challenging, especially as this technological toolkit continues to evolve and expand. Standardizing best practices could maximize the scientific value of biological samples, foster multi‐institutional collaborative efforts across fields, and improve the quality of individual studies by removing potential sources of error from the collection, handling, and preservation processes. With these aims in mind, we summarize relevant literature, share current expert knowledge, and suggest best practices for sample collection and preservation. This manuscript is intended as a reference resource for scientists interested in exploring collaborative studies and preserving samples in a suitable manner for a broad spectrum of analyses, emphasizing support for ‘omics technologies.