bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feeling the squeeze: EMNEs’ international expansion as a driver of nonmarket political strategy at home
Authors: da Silva Jaison Caetano , Marcon Rosilene , Parente Ronaldo , Gambirage Cinara
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effect of international expansion of emerging markets multinationals (EMNEs) on the home country nonmarket political strategy and why some EMNEs intensify this political tie more than others.

Design/methodology/approach

We test our theoretical framework using longitudinal data, with 16 years of observations, in Multilatinas and state loans from Brazil, one of the main outward foreign direct investment (OFDI) players in the world and the OFDI leader in Latin America.

Findings

Theoretically grounded on the institution-based view of strategy, it can be postulated that international expansion is a driver of home country nonmarket political strategy. It can also be hypothesized that political tie intensity is affected by the capacity of EMNEs to deal with international expansion issues without having to depend on relationship with homes country nonmarket political actors. The results provide support for the hypotheses presented.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the EMNE internationalization literature by extending the understanding of the underlying motivations and forces shaping the home country nonmarket political strategy of multinationals from emerging markets and, thus, helping understand why some EMNEs tend to be more politically active than others. Likewise, the study contributes to advancing understanding regarding the home country strategic responses adopted by Multilatinas and the forces behind the nonmarket political strategies they employ in their international expansions, especially during turbulent times.
Heat transfer and thermal efficiency enhancement using twisted tapes in sinusoidal wavy tubes with nanofluids: a numerical study
Authors: Abbaszadeh Mohammad , Montazeri Mohammad Hossein , Mirzaie Mojtaba
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to propose a novel implementation of twisted tape in sinusoidal wavy-walled tubes to enhance the rate of heat transfer without compromising thermal efficiency. The study numerically investigates the fluid flow characteristics and analyzes the effect of different geometrical configurations, including wall wave amplitude, tape twist angles and nanoparticle volume fractions, on heat transfer improvement and performance factor.

Design/methodology/approach

This problem is numerically investigated using computational fluid dynamics, and the method is the finite volume method. A two-phase mixture model is used for nanofluid modeling.

Findings

The study investigated the effect of wall waviness, twisted tape, and nanoparticles on forced convective heat transfer and friction factor behavior in laminar pipe flow in three different Reynolds number regimes. The results showed that implementing twisted tape in wavy tubes significantly increased the rate of heat transfer and the performance factor, with the best twist ratio between 90 and 180°. Adding nanoparticles also enhanced heat transfer and performance factor, but to a lesser extent than wavy wall-twisted tape combinations. The study suggests selecting a proper combination of wavy wall and twisted tape at each Reynolds number to achieve an optimum solution.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the implementation of the selected passive methods in sinusoidal wavy tubes has not been studied before, and no previous studies have taken into account such a mix of heat transfer improvement techniques.
Study destination preference and post-graduation intentions: a push-pull factor theory perspective
Authors: Nikou Shahrokh , Kadel Bibek , Gutema Dandi Merga
Published: September 2023

Purpose

The choices that international students make regarding abroad study destination selection or leave the host country after graduation are influenced by a variety of factors that are both related to positive and negative aspects of the host country.

Design/methodology/approach

This study builds on the push-pull factor theory and examines the factors that influence international students' decision to choose abroad study destination (Finland) or leave the country after their graduations. The data were collected through an online survey of 195 international students currently studying in Finland and were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) technique. This method offers a flexible and robust approach to test relationships, particularly in situations where sample size and the conceptual model are small and complex.

Findings

The results show that international students' choice of study destination (Finland) is influenced by the host country's quality of life, academic excellence and economic factors such as salary and benefits. Unfamiliarity with the culture and language barriers have a negative impact on their decisions to stay in the host country after graduation.

Originality/value

By utilising a comprehensive analysis of both push and pull factors in relation to the host country, this study unveils a novel perspective in the field of international student mobility. The results provide insights to the institutional leaders and policymakers into how to attract and retain international students by focusing on the factors that matter most to international students. To attract more international students, higher education institutions (HEIs) should include career development activities, e.g. job fairs, language training, scholarships and internships in their curriculum. Moreover, it provides recommendations on how to create a welcoming and supportive environment that promotes academic excellence and career development.
Synthesis towards unveiling the complexity underlying underpayment for subcontractors in construction
Authors: Mayouf Mohammad , Gilligan Ciaran
Published: September 2023

Purpose

In construction projects, underpayments can be recognised as one of the significant drawbacks that impact the success of a project. Research into underpayments is considered ambiguous and provides a limited reflection of the issue, which makes it complicated to trace how it originates in the first place. This study aims to examine the causes that lead to underpayments and develop a holistic synthesis of underpayments for subcontractors in the lifecycle of a construction project.

Design/methodology/approach

An open-ended and closed-ended questionnaire was used to collect the data using purposeful sampling with 28 construction stakeholders who ranged from main contractors, subcontractors and others (Small medium enterprises SMEs, Consultancies, Clients etc.). Data collected was analysed to trace drivers and the impact of underpayment and suggested mitigation strategies to be identified whilst viewing the perspectives of a main contractor and subcontractor.

Findings

The findings show that the most prominent driver for underpayments is variation disputes followed by cash flow. The research also suggests mitigation strategies such as collaborative working, more robust budget control and early identification of risks as potential remedies to overcome the underpayment issue. The research concludes with a framework that elicits the complexity underlying underpayments for subcontractors in construction projects.

Originality/value

The research evolves the understanding that underpayment is a complex phenomenon, relying heavily on the data/information exchange mechanism between the main contractor and subcontractors. This research provokes the need to understand underpayment further so it can be mitigated.
Does board gender diversity affect firms’ expected risk?
Authors: Rodriguez Jodonnis , Dandapani Krishnan , Lawrence Edward R.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

This study aims to explore the impact of board gender diversity on firms’ forward-looking risk, as perceived by both the firm’s management and its investors. The authors seek to understand whether the presence of female directors and the consequent enhancement of board dynamics can influence a firm’s risk profile.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use firms’ cash holdings and option implied volatility as proxies for future risk. The approach involves a rigorous analysis that accounts for potential concerns related to selection bias, endogeneity, heteroskedasticity and serial correlation. The authors further substantiate the findings through robustness checks, including a dynamic panel system general method of moment test and a Heckman correction model.

Findings

The results reveal an inverse relationship between board gender diversity and firms’ expected risk. The findings suggest that the primary driver of this risk reduction is the improvement in the group dynamics of the board that comes with increased gender diversity. This implies that gender diverse boards can significantly influence a firm’s risk management and financial performance.

Research limitations/implications

The results indicate that gender diverse firms have economically and statistically significantly less expected risk and have better financial performance than firms with less board gender diversity. This has important implications for the organization of corporate boards.

Practical implications

If the addition of female directors alters the risk aversion of the board, then management may be compelled to alter their investment and production decisions that, ultimately, affects firms’ profitability. In addition, the authors investigate whether changes to firm risk is due to gender differences in risk preferences or to an improvement in the group dynamics of the board.

Social implications

The empirical results suggest that the effect of board gender diversity on firms’ expected risk and financial performance may be due to an improvement in the collective intelligence of the board, as a result of more gender diversity, and not due to gender differences in risk preferences.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this work is the first to study the effect of board gender diversity on firms’ future risk.
By What Criteria Do We Evaluate Accounting? Some Thoughts on Economic Welfare and the Archival Literature
Authors: BALL RAY
Published: September 2023

The economic role of an accounting regime is to increase welfare through its effects—in conjunction with complementary institutions—on firm and household behavior. I review three major streams of the archival literature (real effects; price effects, including value relevance; and costly contracting), in terms of what they can and cannot reveal as proxies for welfare effects. One conclusion is that the partial correlations and average effects that predominate in this literature have provided valuable insights into the role of accounting in the economy, but provide limited and misleading proxies for welfare effects. A major concern is that teachers, students, and researchers—indeed, regulators and standard setters—raised on this literature could lose sight of, and underestimate, the fundamental contribution of accounting to aggregate welfare.
Influence of legume‐derived proteins with varying solubility on the direct expansion of corn starch during twin‐screw extrusion processing
Authors: Downs Breana , Skrzypczak Katarzyna , Richter Jana K. , Krajka Tomasz , Ikuse Marina , Bernin Joshua B. , Ganjyal Girish M.
Published: September 2023

This study analyzed the effect of the inclusion of legume‐derived proteins, specifically pea and fava bean protein, with varying solubility levels on the expansion of corn starch. Three different proteins exhibiting low, medium, or high solubility were mixed with corn starch to obtain blends containing 15%, 25%, and 35% (w/w) of the protein. Extrusion was performed on a twin‐screw extruder at three different screw speeds (200, 400, and 600 rpm), a moisture content of 16% (w.b.), and a die temperature of 140°C. Obtained extrudates were analyzed for their expansion, unit density, and hydration properties, namely, water solubility index (WSI) and water absorption index (WAI). Extrudates containing the protein with the highest solubility showed different patterns than those that had proteins with low or medium solubility. Expansion ratio (ER) increased from a maximum of 3.55 ± 0.24 for pure corn starch up to 5.45 ± 0.43 when incorporating 35% of the protein with medium solubility but significantly decreased down to 1.24 ± 0.08 when incorporating 35% of the most soluble protein. The influence on the system parameters, as well as on the hydration properties, was also greatest for the blends containing the protein with the highest solubility. Even though significant Pearson correlations were observed between protein solubility and ER (r = −0.579), unity density (r = 0.614), WSI (r = −0.634), torque (r = −0.612), as well as specific mechanical energy (r = −0.451), further research is needed to evaluate if the solubility is indeed the reason for certain behaviors or if other protein characteristics are more critical for expansion.

Practical Application

This manuscript provides practical information on the influence of the addition of legume‐derived proteins with different solubility levels on direct expansion. The obtained results may help the industry with the selection of the appropriate proteins for inclusion levels in producing high protein direct‐expanded extruded food products.
Aotearoa genomic data repository: An āhuru mōwai for taonga species sequencing data
Authors: Te Aika Ben , Liggins Libby , Rye Claire , Perkins E. Owen , Huh Jun , Brauning Rudiger , Godfery Tracey , Black Michael A.
Published: September 2023

The Aotearoa Genomic Data Repository (AGDR) is an initiative to provide a secure within‐nation option for the storage, management and sharing of non‐human genomic data generated from biological and environmental samples originating in Aotearoa New Zealand. This resource has been developed to follow the principles of Māori Data Sovereignty, and to enable the right of kaitiakitanga (guardianship), so that iwi, hapū and whānau (tribes, kinship groups and families) can effectively exercise their responsibilities as guardians over biological entities that they regard as taonga (precious or treasured). While the repository is designed to facilitate the sharing of data—making it findable by researchers and interoperable with data held in other genomic repositories—the decision‐making process regarding who can access the data is entirely in the hands of those holding kaitiakitanga over each data set. No data are made available to the requesting researcher until the request has been approved, and the conditions for access (which can vary by data set) have been agreed to. Here we describe the development of the AGDR, from both a cultural perspective, and a technical one, and outline the processes that underpin its operation.
Fish germ cell cryobanking and transplanting for conservation
Authors: Wylie Matthew J. , Kitson Jane , Russell Khyla , Yoshizaki Goro , Yazawa Ryosuke , Steeves Tammy E. , Wellenreuther Maren
Published: September 2023

The unprecedented loss of global biodiversity is linked to multiple anthropogenic stressors. New conservation technologies are urgently needed to mitigate this loss. The rights, knowledge and perspectives of Indigenous peoples in biodiversity conservation—including the development and application of new technologies—are increasingly recognised. Advances in germplasm cryopreservation and germ cell transplantation (termed ‘broodstock surrogacy’) techniques offer exciting tools to preserve biodiversity, but their application has been underappreciated. Here, we use teleost fishes as an exemplar group to outline (1) the power of these techniques to preserve genome‐wide genetic diversity, (2) the need to apply a conservation genomic lens when selecting individuals for germplasm cryobanking and broodstock surrogacy and (3) the value of considering the cultural significance of these genomic resources. We conclude by discussing the opportunities and challenges of these techniques for conserving biodiversity in threatened teleost fish and beyond.
The role of NLRP3 and CARD8 polymorphisms in the risk of rheumatoid arthritis: A meta‐analysis of genetic association studies
Authors: Lee Young Ho , Song Gwan Gyu
Published: September 2023

Objective

To investigate the potential associations between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and NOD‐, LRR‐, and pyrin domain‐containing protein 3 (NLRP3) rs35829419, rs10754558, s4612666, and caspase recruitment domain family member 8 (CARD8) rs2043211 polymorphisms.

Methods

Relevant papers were searched for in MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science. Allele contrast, recessive, dominant, and homozygote contrast models were used to investigate the relationship between the NLRP3 rs35829419, rs10754558, and s4612666, and CARD8 rs2043211 polymorphisms and RA. This review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023451231).

Results

The meta‐analysis included 11 comparative studies comprising 3789 patients with RA and 3956 controls. No significant association was found between NLRP3 rs35829419 C allele and RA in Europeans, Arabs, or Latinos. The NLRP3 rs10754558 G allele was not associated with RA in the Asian or Arab populations. However, a single study in Latin America discovered a link between RA and the NLRP3 rs10754558 G allele. The NLRP3 rs4612666 T allele was not associated with RA, according to the meta‐analysis. When ethnicity was stratified, there was no association between the NLRP3 rs4612666 T allele and RA, except for a single study that found an association among Arabs. The CARD8 rs2043211 T allele did not seem to be associated with RA. According to an ethnic stratification study, the CARD8 rs2043211 T allele did not appear to be associated with RA in Europeans, Arabs, or Latinos.

Conclusions

The meta‐analysis indicated that the NLRP3 rs35829419, rs10754558, and s4612666 polymorphisms, as well as the CARD8 rs2043211 polymorphism, were not linked to RA susceptibility.
Managerial extraversion and corporate voluntary disclosure
Authors: Eugster Florian , Kallunki Jenni , Kallunki Juha‐Pekka , Nilsson Henrik
Published: September 2023

This article examines the effect of managers' personality trait of extraversion on the voluntary disclosure of their firms. Our results from analyzing archival data from Sweden show that the extraversion scores of CEOs and CFOs obtained from psychological tests are positively associated with the voluntary disclosure scores of their firms. The effect of managerial extraversion on disclosure is, moreover, stronger when managerial discretion or managerial job demands are higher. We also find that extraversion affects managers' disclosure styles during earnings conference calls.
Prolonged effects of dexamethasone following total knee arthroplasty: A pre‐planned sub‐study of the DEX‐2‐TKA trial
Authors: Derby Cecilie Bauer , Gasbjerg Kasper Smidt , Hägi‐Pedersen Daniel , Lunn Troels Haxholdt , Pedersen Niels Anker , Lindholm Peter , Brorson Stig , Schrøder Henrik Morville , Thybo Kasper Højgaard , Bagger Jens , Lindberg‐Larsen Martin , Overgaard Søren , Jakobsen Janus Christian , Mathiesen Ole
Published: September 2023

Objectives

The DEX‐2‐TKA trial demonstrated that one and two doses of 24 mg intravenous dexamethasone reduced opioid consumption and pain after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). We aimed to investigate the prolonged effects of dexamethasone after the 48‐h intervention period.

Design

This was a prospective, pre‐planned questionnaire follow‐up on postoperative days 3–7 of patients in the DEX‐2‐TKA trial that randomly received: DX1 (dexamethasone 24 mg + placebo), DX2 (dexamethasone 24 mg + dexamethasone 24 mg), and placebo (placebo + placebo) perioperatively and 24 h later.

Setting

A multicenter trial performed at five Danish hospitals.

Participants

We analyzed 434 of 485 adult participants enrolled in the DEX‐2‐TKA trial.

Outcome Measures

Primary outcome was difference between groups in average of all numerical rating scale (NRS) pain scores reported in the morning, at bedtime, and the daily average pain on postoperative days 3–7. Secondary outcomes were sleep quality and patient satisfaction.

Results

The median (interquartile range) pain intensity levels for postoperative days 3–7 were: DX2 3.2 (2.1–4.3); DX1 3.3 (2.3–4.1); and placebo 3.3 (2.5–4.7). Hodges–Lehmann median differences between groups were: 0 (95% confidence interval − 0.54 to 0.2), P = 0.38 between DX1 and placebo; 0.1 (−0.47 to 0.33), p = .87 between DX1 and DX2; and 0.1 (−0.6 to 0.13), p = .20 between DX2 and placebo. We found no relevant differences between groups on sleep quality on postoperative days 3–7 nor for patient satisfaction with the analgesic treatment.

Conclusions

We found that neither one nor two doses of 24 mg intravenous dexamethasone demonstrated prolonged effects on overall pain or sleep quality on postoperative days 3–7 after total knee arthroplasty. We also found that dexamethasone had no effect on patient satisfaction.

Trial registration number: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT03506789 (main result trial).
Do State Ownership and Political Connections Affect Precautionary Cash Holdings for Customer Concentration? Evidence from China
Authors: Hu Shaorou , Liu Ming , Liu Nan , Guo Xialin
Published: September 2023

This paper examines whether state ownership and political connections affect the relationship between customer concentration and cash holdings for Chinese listed manufacturing firms. We show that non‐state‐owned firms, but not state‐owned firms, hold more cash as customer concentration increases. In addition, political connections weaken the positive effect of customer concentration on non‐state‐owned firms’ cash holdings. Our supplemental analyses further show that for non‐state‐owned firms with limited access to finance—for instance, firms with low analyst following, low institutional ownership, or low government subsidies—the effects of political connections on weakening the positive association between customer concentration and cash holdings are more pronounced. Additional robustness tests support our arguments.
Associations between stimulant use and return to illicit opioid use following initiation onto medication for opioid use disorder
Authors: Foot Canyon , Korthuis Philip T. , Tsui Judith I. , Luo Sean X. , Chan Brian , Cook Ryan R.
Published: September 2023

Aim

The aim of this study was to estimate how ongoing stimulant use affects return to illicit opioid use after initiation onto medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD).

Design

This was a secondary analysis of pooled data from two clinical trials comparing buprenorphine (BUP‐NX) and extended‐release naltrexone (XR‐NTX).

Setting

Thirteen opioid treatment programs and HIV clinics across 10 states in the United States from 2014 to 2019 took part in this study.

Participants

A total of 528 participants who initiated MOUD as part of trial participation were included. Nearly half (49%) were between 30 and 49 years of age, 69% were male and 66% were non‐Hispanic White.

Measurements

The primary outcome was first self‐reported day of non‐prescribed opioid use following MOUD initiation, and the exposure of interest was daily stimulant use (methamphetamine, amphetamines or cocaine). Both were defined using time‐line follow‐back. Among participants reporting at least 1 day of illicit opioid use, we also examined relapse to ongoing use, defined as (1) 7 days of continuous opioid use or (2) 4 consecutive weeks with self‐reported opioid use, one or more positive urine drug screens (UDS) for opioids or one or more missing UDS.

Findings

Forty‐seven per cent of participants reported stimulant use following MOUD initiation, 58% returned to illicit opioid use and 66% of those relapsed to ongoing use. Stimulant use was strongly associated with increased risk of misusing opioids after MOUD initiation when measured daily [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 9.23, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 6.80–12.50, P < 0.001] and over a 7‐day period (aHR = 1.27 for each additional day, CI = 1.18–1.37, P < 0.001). Using stimulants weekly or more often was associated with increased likelihood of relapse to ongoing opioid use compared with less than weekly or no stimulant use (adjusted odds ratio = 2.30, CI = 1.05–5.39, P = 0.044).

Conclusions

People initiated on medication for opioid use disorder who subsequently use stimulants appear to be more likely to return to and continue using non‐prescribed opioids compared with those without stimulant use. The association appears to be stronger among patients who initiate buprenorphine compared with those who initiate extended‐release naltrexone.
Histone modification: Biomarkers and potential therapies in colorectal cancer
Authors: An Xin , Lan Xiaohua , Feng Zizhen , Li Xiaohong , Su Qisheng
Published: September 2023

The complex mechanism of colorectal cancer development is closely associated with epigenetic modifications and is caused by overexpression and/or inactivation of oncogenes. Histone modifying enzymes catalyze histone modifications to alter gene expression, which plays a crucial role in the development and progression of colorectal cancer. Currently, there is more frequent study on histone acetylation, methylation, and phosphorylation, and their mechanisms in colorectal cancer development are clearer. This article elaborates on the role of histone modification in epigenetics in colorectal cancer development and discusses recent advances in using it as biomarkers and therapeutic targets for the treatment of colorectal cancer. The review aims to demonstrate the significant role of histone modification as a new therapeutic target in colorectal cancer and provides insights into the novel diagnostic and therapeutic options it offers.
Epi‐parasitic mistletoes don't parasitise their host's host and this supports the immunity hypothesis for host choice
Authors: Midgley Jeremy
Published: September 2023

Mistletoes have much higher transpiration rates than their hosts. This is the basis for the ecological “compatibility hypothesis” for host choice. The inability of mistletoes to penetrate a host and connect to its vascular system is the competing “immunity hypothesis”. Epi‐parasites would have to transpire faster than their host mistletoe, which must transpire faster than its host. Therefore, epi‐parasites should be able to parasitise their host's host. I surveyed epi‐parasite host choice at a site and found this did not happen. Globally about a quarter of all epi‐parasites are obligate. This supports the immunity hypothesis.
Coping with the long‐term impact of civil strife: A grief‐centered analysis of Tamil Sri Lankan communities affected by ethnopolitical conflict
Authors: Thomas Fiona C. , Divirgilio Richard , Jayawickreme Nuwan , Sivayokan Sambasivamoorthy , McShane Kelly , Jayawickreme Eranda
Published: September 2023

Limited research has examined coping mechanisms in response to chronic war‐related stressors, as opposed to war‐exposure trauma. The current study sought to investigate the types of losses experienced by communities affected by the Sri Lankan conflict, how participants responded to their losses, and what coping mechanisms they employed. Data consisted of interviews from two independent investigations conducted following the end of the conflict in Northern Sri Lanka (total N = 103). Interview transcripts were analyzed using a directed content analysis approach. Participants most frequently described experiencing material loss and loss of loved ones. Relatedly, participants commonly reported experiencing ambiguous loss, that is, living with the uncertainty of their loved one's death. These losses were particularly pronounced by gender, with women experiencing higher rates of loss. Common coping strategies included support‐seeking, including informal support from social networks and religion, and formal mental health services. Additionally, participants described a range of longer term coping strategies from establishing a future‐oriented cognitive style to a sense of helplessness and resignation. The findings shed light on how conflict‐affected groups cope with profound loss. We provide recommendations for how such findings can inform grief‐related clinical interventions.
Company ESG performance and institutional investor ownership preferences
Authors: Wei Li , Chengshu Wu
Published: September 2023

Heterogeneous institutional investors' shareholding preferences have been driven to change by the deepening of ESG investment philosophy. Therefore, we examine the impact of corporate ESG performance on institutional investors' shareholding preferences and its mechanism of action. We conduct mixed OLS and mediation effect tests using data on ESG responsibility scores and institutional investors' shareholding ratios of A‐share listed companies in China from 2010 to 2020 as samples. We find that corporate ESG performance can significantly and robustly increase institutional investors' shareholdings; the mediation effect analysis shows that overall corporate ESG performance contributes to increases in corporate book and market values, thus encouraging institutional investors to increase their shareholdings. The heterogeneity analysis shows that independent institutional investors attach more importance to corporate ESG responsibility performance, and long‐term institutional investors attach more importance to corporate environmental performance; moreover, institutional investors have more significant ESG shareholding preferences for Chinese SOEs. Our study can strengthen the encouragement of institutional investors to integrate ESG investment concepts from multiple perspectives, such as research and analysis, portfolio management, risk control, and due diligence management, to design and develop targeted ESG investment tools, give full play to the role of shareholders and guide the sound development of listed companies from the perspective of investment strategy objectives.
Midwives' perceptions of and experiences with normal physiologic birth: A qualitative systematic review
Authors: Shorey Shefaly , Ng Esperanza Debby
Published: September 2023

Background

Normal physiologic birth has been shown to result in optimal maternal–infant outcomes, but the concept of physiologic birth is continually evolving. Midwives play an important role in advocating for normal physiologic birth; however, their perceptions of what this approach entails have not been systematically appraised.

Objective

In this qualitative review, we aimed to examine midwives' perceived meanings of “normal physiologic birth” and to describe their experiences facilitating such births.

Methods

Five electronic databases were searched, and 26 qualitative papers were included, representing a total of 433 midwives from different backgrounds (i.e., independent, home‐based, community‐based, and hospital‐based). Eligible papers were assessed for quality, and then data were coded and synthesized thematically.

Results

Four highly connected themes were generated: (1) the midwife: fundamental beliefs; (2) the woman: empowerment and advocacy; (3) the environment: ambience and culture; and (4) the team: need for institutional support and recognition. The fundamental beliefs of midwives, such as their perceived role and definition of normal physiologic birth and their self‐confidence, influence practice styles and contribute to personal and professional development. Midwives often advocate for a person‐centered approach that encouraged women's and other birthing person's autonomy and involvement in shared decision‐making. The midwife–client relationship is also central. Most importantly, a conducive birthing environment and an inclusive workplace culture that encourages interprofessional support, collaboration, and recognizes midwifery practices were identified as crucial in providing optimal conditions for the facilitation of physiologic birth.

Conclusions

This review provides healthcare policymakers and institutions fresh impetus to evaluate and revise as needed current workplace policies to be more inclusive and supportive of midwifery practices and physiologic birth.
Association between serum albumin to serum creatinine ratio and mortality risk in patients with heart failure
Authors: Li Shiyang , Xie Xiaoshuang , Zeng Xiaobin , Wang Shihai , Lan Jianjun
Published: September 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between serum albumin to serum creatinine ratio (sACR) and the prognosis of heart failure (HF). In this single‐center prospective cohort study, a total of 2625 patients with HF were enrolled between March 2012 and June 2017. All patients were divided into three groups according to the tertiles of sACR. Of 2625 patients, the mean age was 57.0 ± 14.3 years. During a median follow‐up time of 23 months, 666 end point events occurred. Prognosis analysis indicated that the lowest sACR was significantly associated with higher mortality risk of HF (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.920, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.585–2.326, p < 0.001) when compared with the highest tertile. After adjusting for covariates including age, gender, diabetes, systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL‐C, LDL‐C, white blood cell count, hemoglobin, glycosylated hemoglobin, and β‐blocker use, the HRs for mortality risk of HF was 1.513 (95% CI = 1.070–2.139, p = 0.019). Subgroup analysis indicated that the mortality risk of HF statistically significantly reduced with the rise in sACR in patients with no β‐blocker use, patients with serum creatine less than 97 μmol/L. However, stratification by age, sex, history of hypertension, diabetes, and smoking, level of glycosylated hemoglobin, and albumin have no obvious effect on the association between sACR and the prognosis of HF. Additionally, patients with lower sACR displayed reduced left ventricular ejection fraction and increased left ventricular end‐diastolic diameter. The discriminant power of sACR alone and in combination with age, gender, SBP, heart rate, and glycosylated hemoglobin were excellent with C statistic of 0.655 and 0.889, respectively. Lower sACR was an independent risk factor for mortality risk of HF.
Pre‐analytical effects on whole transcriptome and targeted RNA sequencing analysis in cytology: The effects of prolonged time in storage of effusion specimens prior to preservation
Authors: Sura Gloria H. , Tran Kevin , Fu Chunxiao , Du Lili , Marczyk Michał , Gould Rebekah E. , Chen Eveline , Tasto Amy M. , Tinnirello Agata A. , Symmans W. Fraser
Published: September 2023

Objectives

To investigate the pre‐analytics of the molecular testing of cytology specimens, we studied the effects of time in refrigerator storage (4°C) of malignant effusions on RNA sequencing (RNAseq) results.

Methods

Ten effusion specimens were stored in a refrigerator (4°C) for different durations (day 0, 1, 4, and 7). All specimens were prepared as cytospins fixed in either Carnoy's solution or 95% ethanol (EtOH) and in an RNA preservative for a fresh frozen (FF) high‐quality reference. Whole transcriptome (wt) and targeted (t)RNAseq of two multigene expression signatures were performed. We then compared transcript expression levels (including mutant allele fraction) according to pre‐analytical variables using a concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) and a mixed effect model.

Results

Sequencing results were mostly stable over increasing time in storage. Cytospins fixed in Carnoy's solution were more concordant with FF samples than cytospins fixed in 95% EtOH at all timepoints. This finding was consistent for both wtRNAseq (averages: day 0 CCC = 0.98 vs 0.91; day 7 CCC = 0.88 vs 0.78) and tRNAseq methods (averages: day 0 CCC = 0.98 vs 0.81; day 7 CCC = 0.98 vs 0.90). Cytospins fixed in Carnoy's solution did not show significant changes in expression over timepoints or between expression signatures, whereas 95% EtOH did.

Conclusion

RNAseq can be accurately performed on effusion specimens after prolonged refrigerator storage. RNA extracted from scraped cytospin slides fixed in Carnoy's solution was marginally superior to 95% EtOH fixation, but either method had comparable analytic performance to high‐quality FF RNA samples.
A comparison of two widely used methods for estimating taxonomic and functional diversities of epigeal arthropods in some temperate grasslands
Authors: Amiar Dylan , Leandro Camila , Courtial Cyril , Pétillon Julien
Published: September 2023

Suction sampling is increasingly being used to estimate abundance and diversity of epigeal arthropods, yet no study has quantified its efficiency to simultaneously assess diversity at different taxonomic and functional scales. Here, we evaluated the efficiency of this method (G‐Vac) relative to the pitfall (Barber) trap, which has been used for a long time, and their possible complementarity. To do that, we compared several diversity metrics of a wide range of arthropod taxa, with a particular focus on spiders (species level), and using functional traits such as trophic diet, hunting guild, and body size. Sampling took place in some coastal grasslands of Brittany (France) using a spatially paired design of vacuuming and unfenced pitfall trapping. In total, 21159 arthropods were identified to order or family levels, including 1018 adult spiders identified to species. Suction sampling was more efficient than pitfall trapping in collecting phytophagous arthropods, web‐builders, and small species living in the vegetation compared to detritivores, large‐bodied arthropods, and spiders living near the soil surface. We conclude that short‐term G‐Vac suction is more interesting than pitfall trapping to obtain a ‘snapshot’ of patterns in taxonomic richness. However, for assessing functional diversity, G‐Vac suction and pitfall trapping are complementary sampling methods.
Multifaceted framework for defining conservation units: An example from Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) in Canada
Authors: Lehnert Sarah J. , Bradbury Ian R. , Wringe Brendan F. , Van Wyngaarden Mallory , Bentzen Paul
Published: September 2023

Conservation units represent important components of intraspecific diversity that can aid in prioritizing and protecting at‐risk populations, while also safeguarding unique diversity that can contribute to species resilience. In Canada, identification and assessments of conservation units is done by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC). COSEWIC can recognize conservation units below the species level (termed “designatable units”; DUs) if the unit has attributes that make it both discrete and evolutionarily significant. There are various ways in which a DU can meet criteria of discreteness and significance, and increasing access to “big data” is providing unprecedented information that can directly inform both criteria. Specifically, the incorporation of genomic data for an increasing number of non‐model species is informing more COSEWIC assessments; thus, a repeatable, robust framework is needed for integrating these data into DU characterization. Here, we develop a framework that uses a multifaceted, weight of evidence approach to incorporate multiple data types, including genetic and genomic data, to inform COSEWIC DUs. We apply this framework to delineate DUs of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar, L.), an economically, culturally, and ecologically significant species, that is also characterized by complex hierarchical population structure. Specifically, we focus on an in‐depth example of how our approach was applied to a previously data limited region of northern Canada that was defined by a single large DU. Application of our framework with newly available genetic and genomic data led to subdividing this DU into three new DUs. Although our approach was developed to meet criteria of COSEWIC, it is widely applicable given similarities in the definitions of a conservation unit.
Stocking fish in inland waters: Opportunities and risks for sustainable food systems
Authors: Cowx Ian G. , Funge‐Smith Simon J. , Lynch Abigail J.
Published: September 2023

Stocking is one of the foremost tools in the inland fisheries management toolbox, but it comes with both opportunities and risks. Stocking is often used as compensation for depleted wild populations, particularly where recruitment processes have been disrupted, but it can introduce disease, disrupt community structures, reduce genetic integrity, and cause conflicts between fishery stakeholders. Despite its widespread use, examples of effective stocking for food fisheries in inland waters are sparse in the peer‐reviewed literature. Nevertheless, it is well established that stocking is frequently used to maintain fish yield, so there is a need to conduct the practice in a robust manner that minimises the potential risks. This paper serves as the front matter for a special section ofFisheries Management and Ecologyfocused on fresh waters feeding the world, which resulted from two panel sessions, one focused on aquaculture and one focused on stocking, hosted by the international InFish research network (https://infish.org/). The paper highlights current practices of fish stock enhancement in inland waters for food, examines potential synergies and interactions of stock enhancement programmes with aquaculture, and provides an outline framework for responsible management of fish stock enhancement.
Fluvial geomorphic evolution and stream fish community trajectories in the Bayou Pierre, Mississippi, U.S.A.
Authors: Stearman Loren W. , Schaefer Jacob F.
Published: September 2023

Human activities have often altered sediment dynamics in rivers, leading to aquatic habitat degradation. The dominant paradigm in fish–sediment interactions focuses on excessive fine sediments as indicators of habitat and water quality degradation. In contrast, geomorphologists have provided frameworks linking altered sediment dynamics to much broader and more complex changes to channel morphology and stream habitats across spatial scales.

In this paper we use an interdisciplinary approach with historical and contemporary channel morphology and fish community datasets to examine how altered sediment dynamics have affected stream fish community evolution in the Bayou Pierre, Mississippi, U.S.A.

Erosional process regimes have advanced upstream consistent with models of knickpoint propagation and channel evolution, leaving most of the catchment in a state of increased sediment transport and local sediment deficits. Fish communities in modern samples have less α and β diversity and fewer habitat specialist taxa than in historical samples.

Whole‐community analysis via non‐metric multidimensional scaling found a strong gradient of homogenisation towards a fauna comprised of small‐bodied taxa adapted to large rivers.

Comparisons of community and geomorphic change on this gradient found that reaches that transitioned between process regimes had more community change, and that local habitat factors relating to advanced channel evolution were strongly positively related to total community change.

These results demonstrate that a catchment‐scale geomorphic analysis provided a strong tool for understanding fish community change on a decadal scale. Our findings further demonstrate concordant ecological responses to a complex sequence of disturbances and suggest that a broader view of sediment dynamics offers a rich toolkit for ecological analyses.
Novel application of a food ingredient based on soybean extruded‐expelled meal containing probiotics for improving gluten‐free bread quality
Authors: Castellanos‐Fuentes Adriana P. , Genevois Carolina E. , Flores Silvia K. , de Escalada Pla Marina F.
Published: September 2023

There is an increasing demand of alternatives to improve the nutritional and quality profiles of gluten‐free bread and to profit nutrients from vegetable by‐products. The effect of food ingredients based on soy by‐products containing Lacticaseibacillus casei (ATCC 393™), and iron sulphate salt addition on the physical, textural and nutritional properties of a gluten‐free bread formulation was studied. The system containing both, the food ingredient and the iron salt, showed the lowest pH (5.62 ± 0.01) and the highest specific volume (SV) (2.3 ± 0.2) cm3 g−1. In addition, a darker crumb (L* = 66.2 ± 0.6), higher aerated crumb area (110 ± 6) mm2 and iron bioaccessibility (85 ± 5) % were obtained compared with systems without this addition, while no effect was observed on the texture nor moisture. The acid lactic fermentation along with iron salt addition, improved SV, crumb colour and aeration as well as a nutritional profile of gluten‐free bread. These results improve gluten‐free bread quality and add value to soy by‐products.
Formulation and characterisation of phytonutrients‐rich traditional dehydrated snack prepared from skinned baby potatoes
Authors: Kaur Kamaljeet , Kaur Sukhpreet , Aggarwal Poonam , Kaur Navjot
Published: September 2023

Baby potatoes are common by‐products of tuber size grading during potato processing which have high potential for valorisation due to rich bioactive profile. In this research, baby potatoes (Kufri Chipsona‐1 and Lady Rosette) were utilised for formulation of dehydrated traditional snack (papad). Five formulations were prepared utilising baby potatoes (with peel and without peel) and a table variety (Kufri Pukhraj; without peel) was taken as control. Compared to papads prepared from peeled potatoes, papads prepared from skinned potatoes showed higher protein, fibre, bioactives and minerals which were further confirmed using HPLC and FTIR analysis. However, papads prepared without peel were lighter in colour. Papads from K. Chipsona‐1 (with and without peel) were organoleptically more acceptable and selected for storage studies at room temperature. During storage, moisture content, water activity, total and reducing sugars increased while a significant (P < 0.05) decrease in phytochemicals were noticed. The product was found shelf stable for 6 months of storage.
Effects of redox active agents on cyanocobalamin stability in heated milk
Authors: Ding Yi , Lim Pei Jun , Goh Jayler , Lin Qi , Johns Paul W.
Published: September 2023

Reducing agents and oxidizing agents have been identified as contributors to vitamin B12 losses associated with food processing and/or storage. We evaluated the effects of redox active agents on cyanocobalamin stability in heat‐treated non‐fat milk and neutral pH buffers. The largest average cyanocobalamin losses occurred in the presence of an added thiol (glutathione, cysteine, dithiothreitol and the thiamine decomposition product 2‐methyl‐3‐furanthiol) or dithionite, whereas cyanocobalamin recoveries generally increased in the presence of an added oxidizing agent. Cyanocobalamin instability in the heat‐treated, non‐fat milk (~40% loss after 90 min at 100 °C) was attributed to a combination of heat, cystine/cysteine, oxygen and a low‐level presence of transition metals, a combination also found in many other foods for which B12 instability has been reported. The proposed cyanocobalamin decomposition pathway – complexation with heat‐exposed cysteine thiolate, cobalt reduction, hydrolysis of the complex, conversion to hydroxocobalamin and irreversible oxidation – follows the sequence described by others.