bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Islamic social finance and corporate social responsibilities during the COVID-19 pandemic: a content analysis of BPMB CSR report
Authors: Nik Abdul Majid Wan Zurina , Madah Marzuki Marziana , Rosman Romzie , Tumiran Kamal Nasser Siti Dalina
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to explore on how the Islamic social finance mechanism, specifically zakat, influences the corporate social responsibilities (CSRs) of Bank Pembangunan Malaysia Berhad (BPMB) before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

A content analysis was used to examine the disclosure of BPMB for six years (2015–2020). This duration covers the period before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The content analysis was then analysed manually and also by using NVivo.

Findings

It is apparent that BPMB not only actively engages in CSR activities, especially during difficult times like the COVID-19 pandemic, but also fulfils its religious commitments by making regular zakat payments. The finding also shows that BPMB concentrates more on CSR that covers all population, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Practical implications

This study provides implication to the body of knowledge by highlighting the connection between zakat and CSR and implication to the society and regulators on how zakat plays a role in CSR activities before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Originality/value

The novelty of the research and the original study on content analysis of zakat and CSR information in BPMB attest to the originality of this work.
From facilitation coaching style to adaptive performance in health care: a serial mediation model
Authors: Bejan Cristina Gabriela , Rus Claudia Lenuța , Ratiu Lucia Claudia Ioana
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Although several studies evidence the positive outcomes of facilitation coaching style in various professional settings, it has received less attention in the health-care context. Thus, drawing on previous research and the tenets of Self-Determination Theory (Deci and Ryan, 1985), Job Demands-Resources Theory (Demerouti et al., 2001) and Conservation of Resources Theory (Hobfoll, 1989), this study aims to investigate the relationship between facilitation coaching style and adaptive performance in health-care professionals, considering a serial mediation mechanism in which job-related anxiety and informal field-based learning are antecedents of positive psychological capital (PsyCap).

Design/methodology/approach

Self-reported data were collected from 253 Romanian health-care professionals using a cross-sectional research design.

Findings

The authors found that facilitation coaching style reduces job-related anxiety and promotes informal field-based learning, thereby improving PsyCap and, ultimately, contributing to higher adaptive performance.

Originality/value

These results emphasize the critical role of facilitation coaching style in the health-care sector and provide actionable insights for health-care organizations seeking to enhance their staff’s adaptive performance and, consequently, patient care.
The influence of training and field experience on police knowledge of and familiarity with human trafficking
Authors: Allen Kathleen M. , Gibbs Jennifer C. , Strohacker Emily R. , Liu Siyu
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Police knowledge of and familiarity with human trafficking determine whether a victim is referred to services or arrested as an offender, along with other implications. Both field experience and training may affect how police officers recognize and respond to human trafficking scenarios. However, recent research suggests the relationship between officer experience and their ability to identify human trafficking is more nuanced. The purpose of this study is to explore whether experience, training or both are preferable to correctly identifying cases of human trafficking.

Design/methodology/approach

To do so, 495 police officers from a large Pennsylvania agency were surveyed about their perceptions of human trafficking. Officer demographics and levels of experience and training were compared to their responses to six human trafficking scenario questions.

Findings

Bivariate and logistic regression analyses conclude that training, but not experience working human trafficking cases, is associated with an increase in the likelihood of officers correctly identifying scenarios of human trafficking. These findings are discussed in light of the literature.

Originality/value

This study extends previous research by comparing the influence of training and experience investigating cases of human trafficking.
Temporal niche dynamics of spreading native invertebrates underlie doubling of richness in pristine temperate streams
Authors: Horsák Michal , Janáč Michal , Zhai Marie , Bojková Jindřiška
Published: February 2025

While biodiversity loss is undeniably a global phenomenon, an increase in taxonomic richness has recently been reported from some ecosystems and spatial scales. A striking increase in abundance and/or species richness has been documented from temperate rivers over the last 25 years, with many of the expanding species (i.e. winners) being native species. However, the lack of repeatedly collected local environmental data prevents the exploration of their niche dynamics and also makes it difficult to distinguish between possible causes.

We fill this gap by using species occurrence data from 65 pristine Czech rivers sampled in 1997–2000 and 2015. The same methods were used for sampling macroinvertebrates and measuring environmental parameters in both periods. We selected 43 winners, defined as taxonomically validated and originally non‐rare native macroinvertebrate species whose occupancy increased by at least six sites between the time periods. We searched for consistent patterns of niche dynamics (i.e. stability, expansion and restriction) among species that might contribute most to the overall increase in species richness. Using several biological traits, we also compared the winners with the other 253 taxa collected to look for differences.

Analysis of the occurrence data showed that niche stability was by far the predominant pattern of the niche dynamics. This clearly indicates that the winners fill their original niches, with a limited contribution of niche shift or expansion, depending on the species. As no significant differences in either temperature preferences or the other biological traits were found between the winners and the other taxa, there is no unique set of functional traits that explain the success of the winners.

The observed mechanism of filling the original niche space by the spreading native species not only explains the increase in local species richness, but also contributes to support the hypothesis of a climate‐driven increase in ecosystem energy flow from a new perspective. The increased metabolism of the system may relax interspecific competition allowing it to carry more individuals and species, even without the need for an increase in nutrients and ecosystem recovery.
What makes students strong? A student's voice study on resilience
Authors: Ganotz‐Steinborn Tanja , Schwab Susanne
Published: February 2025

In times of crisis, resilience—the ability to cope with challenges—has become crucial, especially for primary school students facing issues such as the climate crisis, the war in Ukraine, educational disadvantages, or family‐related struggles. This is particularly true for students with special educational needs (SEN) or those from migrant backgrounds. The present study explores the factors that foster resilience in these students. Using a sequential explanatory design, the study involved two phases. In the first phase, resilience was measured through a paper‐and‐pencil questionnaire (N = 882 primary school students from Germany). In the second phase, 13 highly resilient students were interviewed using a semi‐structured guide. Quantitative results showed that overall, students demonstrated a high tendency towards resilience. Multilevel regression analysis revealed that personal factors (e.g., family language, SEN), relationships with peers and teachers, and school resources were significant predictors of resilience. Qualitative findings indicated that personal resources—such as self‐efficacy and emotional regulation—were more influential for resilience than external factors like family or community resources.
Hypotension after anesthesia induction in patients taking tricyclic antidepressants—A case series
Authors: Lodsgaard Mads , Melchiors Birgitte Bech , Krøigaard Mogens , Garvey Lene Heise
Published: February 2025

Background

Hypotension is commonly observed after induction of anesthesia. Risk factors for intraoperative hypotension include higher ASA class, older age, propofol use, combined general/regional anesthesia, emergency surgery, and use of antihypertensives. Patients who are treated with tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) may develop severe hypotension in connection with surgery and anesthesia, not responding to vasopressors such as phenylephrine and ephedrine, and use of adrenaline or noradrenaline are necessary to restore the blood pressure. Anaphylaxis may be suspected due to the rapid onset and resistance to usual treatments leading to referral for allergy investigation. The aim of this paper was to identify and describe the clinical characteristics of patients referred to the Danish Anesthesia Allergy Center (DAAC) with perioperative hypotension, without elevation in tryptase, and with negative allergy investigations, who were on regular treatment with TCAs. The pharmacological mechanism behind this phenomenon will also be explored.

Methods

Patients were identified from the DAAC database. Patients with hypotension (systolic blood pressure <75 mmHg) as the only symptom and negative allergy investigations and patients on antidepressants were included. The study period was 2011–2019.

Results

Ten patients were identified. Hypotension occurred after anesthesia induction, the median time from induction to the onset of hypotension was 7.5 min. Eight needed adrenaline or noradrenaline to restore blood pressure. No allergen was identified on detailed investigation and serum tryptase was not significantly elevated.

Conclusion

Monosymptomatic perioperative hypotension without a significant increase in serum tryptase can be caused by TCAs and this is an important differential diagnosis to anaphylaxis. In patients on regular treatment with TCA perioperative hypotension responds well to noradrenaline or adrenaline but less well to vasopressors such as phenylephrine and ephedrine used perioperatively.
Canonical or non‐canonical, all aspects of G protein‐coupled receptor kinase 2 in heart failure
Authors: Kaplan Abdullah , El‐Samadi Lana , Zahreddine Rana , Amin Ghadir , Booz George W. , Zouein Fouad A.
Published: February 2025

G protein‐coupled receptor kinase 2 (GRK2) with its multidomain structure performs various crucial cellular functions under both normal and pathological conditions. Overexpression of GRK2 is linked to cardiovascular diseases, and its inhibition or deletion has been shown to be protective. The functions of GRK2 extend beyond G protein‐coupled receptor (GPCR) signaling, influencing non‐GPCR substrates as well. Increased GRK2 in heart failure (HF) initially may be protective but ultimately leads to maladaptive effects such as GPCR desensitization, insulin resistance, and apoptosis. The multifunctional nature of GRK2, including its action in hypertrophic gene expression, insulin signaling, and cardiac fibrosis, highlights its complex role in HF pathogenesis. Additionally, GRK2 is involved in mitochondrial biogenesis and lipid metabolism. GRK2 also regulates epinephrine secretion from the adrenal gland and its increase in circulating lymphocytes can be used to monitor HF status. Overall, GRK2 is a multifaceted protein with significant implications for HF and the regulation of GRK2 is crucial for understanding and treating cardiovascular diseases.
Ameliorative Role of β‐Caryophyllene on Antioxidant Biomarkers in a Paroxetine‐Induced Model of Male Sexual Dysfunction
Authors: Olopade Elijah Oluwatosin , Adefegha Stephen Adeniyi , Alao Jude Oluwapelumi , Adepoju Ayodeji Emmanuel , Fakayode Aderonke Elizabeth , Oboh Ganiyu
Published: February 2025

Male sexual dysfunction, characterised by reduced libido, ejaculatory issues and erectile dysfunction, often results from oxidative stress and enzymatic imbalance, notably involving phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) and nitric oxide synthase (NOS). This study explores the therapeutic potential of β‐caryophyllene (β‐CBP), a sesquiterpene with antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties, in mitigating paroxetine‐induced sexual dysfunction in rats. Male Wistar rats were divided into nine treatment groups: control, paroxetine (20 mg/kg/day), sildenafil (20 mg/kg/day), β‐CBP (10 mg/kg/day), β‐CBP (20 mg/kg/day), paroxetine with β‐CBP (10 mg/kg), paroxetine with β‐CBP (20 mg/kg), paroxetine with sildenafil and β‐CBP with sildenafil. Sexual behavioural assays were evaluated, along with oxidative stress markers, including superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activity in penile tissue, assessed using spectrophotometric analysis. CB2 receptor expression was significantly increased in β‐CBP‐treated groups, suggesting enhanced cannabinoid receptor‐mediated signalling, which may be linked to improved erectile function. The effects were dose‐dependent, with the 20 mg/kg β‐CBP group displaying the most significant improvements. Additionally, β‐CBP restored antioxidant enzyme activities, including SOD, CAT and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels in penile tissue, effectively reducing oxidative stress. β‐CBP shows promise as a therapeutic agent for male sexual dysfunction by enhancing antioxidative capacity and modulating enzymatic balance.
Case of fingolimod‐associated progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Maesaka Hiroki , Konishi Hirohumi , Nakane Shunya , Nakatsuji Yuji
Published: February 2025

Background

Fingolimod is associated with an increased risk of developing progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML).

Case Presentation

We report a 63‐year‐old woman with severe clinical decline (Expanded Disability Status Scale increasing from 3.5 to 7.0). She started fingolimod 0.5 mg/day at the age of 51 years in the FTY720 trial in Japan, and has been taking it orally ever since. Brain magnetic resonance imaging showed abnormal signals from the subcortical region to the deep white matter, mainly in the right frontal lobe. No gadolinium‐enhancing lesions were observed, and diffusion‐weighted imaging showed marginal hyperintense and central hypointense signals; the characteristic findings in PML. We found her cerebrospinal fluid was positive for John Cunningham polyomavirus DNA, and the diagnosis of PML was made. We administered several steroid pulses in case of immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome. The progression of symptoms and the enlargement of magnetic resonance imaging lesions stopped after 3 months.

Conclusions

This case shows that PML should always be kept in mind as a side‐effect of disease‐modifying therapy for multiple sclerosis.
Function, Quality of Life, and Food Intake in Patients Without Second Molar Implants: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Sakata Ayaka , Kondo Yusuke , Obikane Yui Hirata , Nodai Tomotaka , Munemasa Takashi , Mukaibo Taro , Hosokawa Ryuji , Masaki Chihiro
Published: February 2025

Objectives

The necessity of a second molar region implant for Kennedy Class II classification of unilateral partially edentulous arches remains controversial. This study aims to compare the effects of implant treatment in the first and second molar regions, providing a basis for planning implant treatments for Kennedy Class II dentition.

Methods

This prospective cohort study included 16 patients with implant therapy up to the first molar and 16 patients treated up to the second molar. Bite force, masticatory function, oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL), and food and nutrient intakes were evaluated as outcomes.

Results

While the two groups showed improvements in occlusal force and masticatory function with implant treatment, the increase was significantly greater with implant treatment extending to the second molar. The improvement in OHRQoL was comparable between both groups. Furthermore, the increases in vegetable, dietary fiber, and vitamin K intakes were significantly greater in the implant treatment group extending to the second molar.

Conclusion

From the perspective of OHRQoL, implant treatment up to the first molar may be sufficient.
Osteopontin in Alzheimer's Disease: A Double‐Edged Sword in Neurodegeneration and Neuroprotection—A Systematic Review
Authors: Azizan Zahra , Bazrgar Maryam , Bazgir Narges , Moini Sadra Habibi , Ghaseminejad‐Kermani Sara , Safa Kamran , Eshaghian‐dorcheh Azam , Harirchian Mohammad Hossein
Published: February 2025

Background

Osteopontin (OPN) has emerged as a pivotal molecule in Alzheimer's disease (AD), with studies indicating its potential to act as both a neuroprotective agent and a contributor to neurodegeneration. This systematic review aims to elucidate the roles of OPN in AD pathogenesis through inflammatory pathways.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive analysis of current literature on OPN's involvement in AD, focusing on its signaling pathways, cellular interactions, and regulatory mechanisms. We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus databases by the keyword of Alzheimer's Disease and Osteopontin. Our date search was in 1990 until July 1, 2024 with no language limitation.

Results

In a review of 758 studies, a total of 15 reports met the eligibility criteria and were included. Among the findings, four studies provided evidence supporting the protective mechanism of OPN within the context of AD. Eleven studies explain the inflammatory role of OPN. OPN has been shown to play a role in synaptic pruning, microglial activation, and the inflammatory processes associated with AD. Additionally, OPN is implicated in facilitating cellular communication and serves as a chemotactic molecule. It is suggested that the protective effects of OPN are predominantly mediated by the c fragment of the protein and are most prominent in the early stages of AD progression.

Conclusion

OPN in AD has dual effects—protecting neurons and contributing to their degeneration. Future research should enhance its protective mechanisms, target specific signaling pathways, and develop therapies to slow AD progression.
Effects of copper‐doping on electrochromic properties of titanium dioxide films
Authors: Chen Shengya , Xu Chu , Xia Liufen , Wu Yue , Jiang Guodong , Xiao Dong , Mishra Yogendra Kumar , Xiong Jian
Published: February 2025

Doping with metal elements is a valid way to alter the electrochromic performance of single materials. The doped metal ions can modify the electronic structure of the pristine materials, this results in a change in the transfer and migration of electrons or ions in electrochromic reactions. In this work, a series of copper (Cu)‐doped titanium dioxide (TiO2) films (0.5%, 1% and 5 wt%) were fabricated by a hydrothermal method and a subsequently spin‐coated approach. The effects of doped Cu on the morphological structure, crystallinity, elemental chemical state and electrochromic properties of TiO2 films were evaluated by field emission scanning electron microscopy, high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and electrochemical techniques. The doping of Cu into TiO2 exerts a substantial influence on its crystal structure, with a marked deterioration in crystallinity observed as the doping concentration increases. The results show that the ionic diffusion coefficient of the 0.5% Cu‐TiO2 film is 7.74 × 10−10 cm2/s, the light modulation range is as high as 50.3%, the bleaching and colouring switching times are 1.95 and 16.43 s, respectively, and the light transmittance retention rate can be maintained after 200 cycles. Overall exhibits preferred electrochromic and electrochemical properties. This study indicates that Cu doping with moderate concentration is a feasible way to heighten the electrochromic property of TiO2.
Idiosyncrasy in Multimodal Gestural Communication: A Case Study of Hand‐Clapping in a Barbary Macaque (Macaca sylvanus)
Authors: Bosshard Tiffany Claire , Hirel Marie , Meunier Hélène , Fischer Julia
Published: February 2025

While it is well established that apes invent or individually learn new gestures, cases of development and use of novel gestures in monkeys are more rarely described. We report a case of a novel, idiosyncratic gesture in a Barbary macaque (Macaca sylvanus) at ‘La Forêt des Singes’, Rocamadour, France. One adult male, Jomanix, was observed hand‐clapping. To our knowledge, hand‐clapping has never been described before in this species. To hand‐clap, the male briefly shifted his weight onto his legs, lifted his upper body, and clapped both hands together. We recorded 30 instances of hand‐clapping. Twenty‐five of these hand‐claps occurred in combination with other agonistic signals, such as lunges and open mouth threats. Recipients either responded with counter‐aggression (N = 9) or a submissive response (N = 16). In five of the 30 events, the context was unclear. These observations suggest that the gesture constitutes an agonistic signal. According to the staff at ‘La Forêt des Singes’, the hand‐clapping may have been copied from staff members who occasionally hand‐clap to shoo the animals away from areas where they were not supposed to be but that notion remains speculative. In the meantime, another subject from the same group reportedly started to hand‐clap but the subject had passed away before we could document the behaviour. The observations show that Jomanix can flexibly combine a novel gesture with other established communicative signals. The hand‐clap is goal‐directed and fulfils the criteria for first‐order intentional communication. This case, as well as anecdotal reports from a Tonkean macaque (Macaca tonkeana) hand‐clapping to get attention, reveals greater flexibility in the gestural communication of this genus than previously assumed but also underscores that social learning of the production of communicative gestures occurs rarely in this taxon.
Strengthening Trainers' Transfer Knowledge: An Intervention Study
Authors: Koch Alisha , Wisshak Susanne
Published: February 2025

Although continuous vocational education and training (CVET) trainers are relevant stakeholders who can initiate and support transfer, they have received little attention in the context of transfer research, especially with respect to their transfer knowledge. In this study, we investigated the extent to which the transfer knowledge of CVET trainers can be increased through an intervention. Based on our conceptualization of transfer knowledge, which is a three‐dimensional construct that includes knowledge about learner characteristics, training design and the work environment, we implemented a 5‐week digital training programme (intervention) for CVET trainers. We employed a nonrandomized pretest‒posttest design to investigate N = 81 trainers and examined the effects of the training programme on trainers' transfer knowledge. While 47 trainers participated in the training programme (experimental group), 34 trainers were included in the control group and received no intervention. As hypothesized, we found a significant interaction effect on the development of trainers' transfer knowledge ( = 0.386). Furthermore, we found significant interaction effects pertaining to all three dimensions of transfer knowledge: learner characteristics ( = 0.196), training design ( = 0.246) and the work environment ( = 0.279). Thus, the experimental group exhibited a significant increase in transfer knowledge. No such development was observed among the control group during the intervention period. Hence, the findings of this research provide initial indications that transfer knowledge is learnable and can be increased through an intervention. Further studies are necessary to evaluate whether trainers also transfer training content to their own training courses.
Meta‐Analysis of Real‐World Clinical Practice to Assess the Effectiveness of Riociguat in Treating Chronic Thromboembolic Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Pamukçu Esra , Kaya Mehmet Onur
Published: February 2025

Riociguat is a drug that improves hemodynamic parameters and increases the exercise capacity of patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH). This meta‐analysis evaluated cohort studies that measured changes in parameters such as the 6‐minute walk distance (6MWD), mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP), pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR), cardiac output (CO), and pulmonary arterial wedge pressure (PAWP). The study utilized cohort studies with a paired samples group design to measure the changes in these parameters. We searched for articles containing the keywords “Riociguat” and “Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension” in their titles in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and ScienceDirect databases until May 2024. We conducted five meta‐analyses to combine the mean difference values. We identified nine studies that examine the effects of Riociguat on patients. Analyzing data from 565 patients revealed that Riociguat increases the distance walked during the 6MWD test by an average of 35.86 m. After analyzing data from 717 patients, it was found that Riociguat reduces mPAP by an average of 9.23 mm Hg. Analyzing data from 586 patients, it was found that Riociguat reduces PVR by an average of 220.11 . Moreover, analyzing data from 643 patients showed that Riociguat increases CO by an average of 0.49 L/min. Finally, after analyzing data from 645 patients, it was concluded that Riociguat treatment did not have a statistically significant effect on PAWP. Our findings indicate that Riociguat improved certain hemodynamic parameters and exercise capacity in CTEPH patients.
In Vivo Assessment of Cortical Astrocyte Network Dysfunction During Autoimmune Demyelination: Correlation With Disease Severity
Authors: Moreno‐García A. , Serrat R. , Julio‐Kalajzic F. , Bernal‐Chico A. , Baraibar A. M. , Matute C. , Marsicano G. , Mato S.
Published: February 2025

Cortical damage and dysfunction is a pathological hallmark of multiple sclerosis (MS) that correlates with the severity of physical and cognitive disability. Astrocytes participate in MS pathobiology through a variety of mechanisms, and abnormal astrocytic calcium signaling has been pointed as a pathogenic mechanism of cortical dysfunction in MS. However, in vivo evidence supporting deregulation of astrocyte calcium‐dependent mechanisms in cortical MS is still limited. Here, we applied fiber photometry to the longitudinal analysis of spontaneous and sensory‐evoked astrocyte network activity in the somatosensory cortex of mice in an experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). We found that freely moving EAE mice exhibit spontaneously occurring astrocyte calcium signals of increased duration and reduced amplitude. Concomitantly, cortical astrocytes in EAE mice responded to sensory stimulation with calcium events of decreased amplitude. The emergence of aberrant astrocyte calcium signals in the somatosensory cortex paralleled the onset of neurological symptomatology, and changes in the amplitude of both spontaneous and evoked responses were selectively correlated to the severity of neurological deficits. These results highlight the imbalance of astrocyte network activity in the brain cortex during autoimmune inflammation and further support the relevance of astrocyte‐based pathobiology as an underlying mechanism of cortical dysfunction in MS.

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The influence of training load and schedule on youth athletes' sleep
Authors: Tate Tanisha , Roberts Spencer , Main Luana C. , Bruce Lyndell
Published: February 2025

Sleep is important for youth athletes, supporting sport‐related recovery and performance, as well as growth and development. Sleep may be influenced by training factors; therefore, this study aimed to characterise youth athletes' sleep, and examine associations between training load, schedule and frequency, and sleep. Twenty‐six youth basketballers (age: 14.22 ± 0.74 years, 13 male, 13 female) from a high‐performance sporting school were monitored for a period of 8 weeks. Sleep measures (via actigraphy and sleep diaries) were collected alongside training diaries (recording time, duration and perceived exertion). Youth athletes who finished training after 20:30 hours had significantly less total sleep time than when training finished before 20:30 hours. Higher daily total training duration was associated with decreased total sleep time. There is a potential contradiction with findings related to the number of sessions per day, as participants who completed two training sessions in a day had more sleep than those who completed one session per day; but this was not observed for athletes with three sessions per day. Participants had large intra‐individual variations (mean intra‐individual standard deviation) in bedtime (1.06 hr) and sleep time (0.84 hr). In conclusion: (1) late night training sessions appear to reduce total sleep time and should be avoided in youth athletes; (2) total daily training duration had a greater negative effect on sleep than session frequency; and (3) participants’ large intra‐individual variation in bedtime may reduce sleep quality and efficiency.
Determinants of Contribution Density to the Argentine Pension System: An Analysis by Cohorts, 1996–2021
Authors: Geri Milva , Villarreal Fernanda , Moscoso Nebel
Published: February 2025

Contribution density is not the same as labor formality; it refers to the amount or proportion of contributions per worker that can be accumulated on average in a given period. The objective of this article is to identify the determinants of contribution density to the Argentine pension system from administrative data from 1996 to 2021. An econometric model is proposed to explain the contribution density in eight cohorts based on sociodemographic factors and job characteristics, using the negative binomial regression method. It is found that the density of contributions is low and depends on the branch of economic activity, the jurisdiction where the company is located, the individual's income and gender, and the age of enrollment. The results are similar to those found by other works that study contribution density in Argentina and Latin American countries.
An Evolutionary Mosaic Challenges Traditional Monitoring of a Foundation Species in a Coastal Environment—The Baltic Fucus vesiculosus
Authors: Pereyra Ricardo T. , Kinnby Alexandra , Le Moan Alan , Ortega‐Martinez Olga , Jonsson Per R. , Piarulli Stefania , Pinder Matthew I. M. , Töpel Mats , De Wit Pierre , André Carl , Knutsen Halvor , Johannesson Kerstin
Published: February 2025

During periods of environmental change, genetic diversity in foundation species is critical for ecosystem function and resilience, but it remains overlooked in environmental monitoring. In the Baltic Sea, a key species for monitoring is the brown seaweed Fucus vesiculosus, which forms sublittoral 3D habitats providing shelter and food for fish and invertebrates. Ecological distribution models predict a significant loss of Baltic F. vesiculosus due to ocean warming, unless populations can adapt. Genetic variation and recombination during sexual reproduction are essential for adaptation, but studies have revealed large‐scale clonal reproduction within the Baltic Sea. We analysed genome‐wide single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data from the east Atlantic, the “Transition zone,” and the Baltic Sea, and found a mosaic of divergent lineages in the Baltic Sea, contrasting an outside dominance of a few genetic groups. We determined that the previously described endemic species Fucus radicans is predominantly a large female clone of F. vesiculosus in its northern Baltic distribution. In the two Estonian sites, however, individuals earlier referred to as F. radicans are sexually and reproductively isolated from Baltic F. vesiculosus, revealing a separate lineage that may have diverged long before the formation of the Baltic Sea. Monitoring Baltic Fucus without considering this genetic complexity will fail to prioritise populations with adaptive potential to new climate conditions. From our genomic data, we can extract informative and diagnostic genetic markers that differentiate major genetic entities. Such a SNP panel will provide a straightforward tool for spatial and temporal monitoring and informing management decisions and actions.
Diversity and eco‐epidemiology of ectoparasites and Rickettsia spp. associated with the opossums Didelphis albiventris Lund in livestock farms from Argentinian Pampas region
Authors: Ruiz Melanie , Alonso Rodrigo J. , Rospide Malena , Acosta Diana B. , Cavia Regino , Sanchez Juliana P.
Published: February 2025

Many ectoparasite species serve as vectors for bacteria that are significant to both public and animal health, with wild, domestic and synanthropic mammals acting as reservoirs. However, limited information exists on the circulation and incidence of these vectors in Argentina. We examined the diversity, prevalence and abundance of ectoparasites, along with the presence of Rickettsia spp., of Didelphis albiventris Lund (Didelphimorphia, Didelphidae) within a rural landscape of the Pampas region, Argentina. We also analysed variations in ectoparasite populations concerning seasonality, livestock farm type and farmers' management practices. Seven species of hematophagous ectoparasites were collected, including mites (Mesostigmata, Laelapidae: Laelaps echidninus Berlese); ticks (Ixodida, Ixodidae: Ixodes loricatus Neumann); fleas (Siphonaptera, Rhopalopsyllidae: Polygenis platensis Jordan and Rothschild and Polygenis rimatus Jordan); Stephanocircidae: Craneopsylla minerva wolffhuegeli (Rothschild, Pulicidae: Ctenocephalides felis Bouché); and lice (Phthiraptera, Polyplacidae: Polyplax spinulosa Burmeister). Additionally, two bacteria were detected: Rickettsia felis Bouyer et al. (Rickettsiales, Rickettsiaceae) and Rickettsia sp. (Rickettsiales, Rickettsiaceae) were closely related to Rickettsia bellii Philip et al. (Rickettsiales, Rickettsiaceae). Fleas were the most prevalent and abundant group, with C. felis showing the highest values of mean abundance and prevalence. Parasitological comparisons between dairy farms and feedlots revealed similar results, with comparable densities of D. albiventris in both farm types. Ectoparasite abundance varied seasonally, peaking during the colder season. Regression analysis indicated higher ectoparasite infestation levels on farms with more dogs. The detection of pathogenic bacteria, coupled with the high prevalence and abundance of vectors, such as C. felis, suggests a significant epidemiological risk in the region. The commensal behaviour of D. albiventris facilitates it to thrive in areas modified by anthropogenic activity, positioning this species as a potential nexus between wild and domestic epidemiological cycles of parasites and emerging pathogens. Therefore, our findings suggest that D. albiventris plays a key role in the transmission and maintenance of ectoparasites and ectoparasite‐borne bacteria within these ecosystems.
Relationship between ICU nurses' perception of patient safety, caring behaviour, professional self‐efficacy and nursing deficits: A multiple mediation analysis
Authors: Lan Yuansong , Qin Yan , Zhou Yuhua , Jiang Zhengyan , Liu Qian , Huang Debin , Tan Weiyu
Published: February 2025

Background

Missed nursing care (MNC) is a significant global issue in health care, especially in intensive care units (ICUs) where the complexity of patient care and high workloads increase the risk of errors and omissions. Nursing deficits impact patient safety, nurse efficiency and psychological well‐being, yet the relationship between ICU nurses' perceptions of patient safety, their caring behaviour, professional self‐efficacy and nursing deficits remains underexplored.

Aim

This study aimed to examine the relationships between ICU nurses' perceptions of patient safety, caring behaviour, professional self‐efficacy and nursing deficits through a multiple mediation model.

Study Design

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted with 304 ICU nurses from general hospitals in Guangxi Province between January 2022 and January 2024. The study used validated instruments to measure patient safety perception, caring behaviour, professional self‐efficacy and nursing deficits. Spearman correlation and multiple mediation analyses were applied to explore the relationships among these variables.

Results

ICU nurses reported average scores of 63.35 ± 8.06 for patient safety perception, 70.28 ± 12.14 for caring behaviour, 26.19 ± 4.57 for professional self‐efficacy and 75.92 ± 17.68 for nursing deficits. Significant negative correlations were found between patient safety perception, caring behaviour, professional self‐efficacy and nursing deficits (r = −.483, −.516, −.326, p < .01). Caring behaviour and self‐efficacy mediated the relationship between patient safety perception and nursing deficits, accounting for 74.65% of the total effect. This study follows the STrengthening the Reporting of OBservational studies in Epidemiology guidelines.

Conclusions

This study highlights that improving ICU nurses' perceptions of patient safety can reduce nursing deficits by enhancing caring behaviour and professional self‐efficacy, offering a pathway to improve care quality in ICUs.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Hospital administrators should focus on strategies that enhance ICU nurses' safety perception, caring behaviour and self‐efficacy to reduce nursing deficits and improve patient outcomes.
Building microbial synthetic communities: get inspired by the design of synthetic plant communities
Authors: Durán Paloma , Vailleau Fabienne , Roux Fabrice
Published: February 2025

In the last decade, the generation of host‐associated microbial culture collections has allowed the fine disentangling of complex relationships between commensal microbes and their hosts, and within‐microbiota interactions. Specifically, these culture collections have been used to construct microbial synthetic communities (SynComs), which allow the reconstruction of host microbiota in laboratory conditions. In three recent perspective publications, the importance of this tool has been highlighted, and the ground rules of utilization and designing of such SynComs have been laid out. It is important to note that although microbial SynComs are used to understand intricate ecological interactions occurring in natural conditions, the intraspecific genetic diversity present in natural microbial communities has been seldom considered in the design of interspecific microbial SynComs so far. In this Viewpoint, we therefore argue that designing microbial SynComs could benefit from recent developments in the design of synthetic plant communities, or plant SynComs. For instance, considering intraspecific plant genetic diversity and its effects on intra‐ and interspecific plant–plant interactions appears essential to better understand and predict highly productive and stable plant communities. Therefore, considering genetic diversity within microbial species undoubtedly represents an exciting opportunity to design innovative microbial SynComs.
Detecting Multiple Structural Breaks in Systems of Linear Regression Equations With Integrated and Stationary Regressors
Authors: Schweikert Karsten
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we propose a two‐step procedure based on the group LASSO estimator in combination with a backward elimination algorithm to detect multiple structural breaks in linear regressions with multivariate responses. Applying the two‐step estimator, we jointly detect the number and location of structural breaks and provide consistent estimates of the coefficients. Our framework is flexible enough to allow for a mix of integrated and stationary regressors, as well as deterministic terms. Using simulation experiments, we show that the proposed two‐step estimator performs competitively against the likelihood‐based approach in finite samples. However, the two‐step estimator is computationally much more efficient. An economic application to the identification of structural breaks in the term structure of interest rates illustrates this methodology.
Longitudinal development of ocular biometric components and refractive error in hyperopic children with infantile versus late‐onset accommodative esotropia
Authors: Wang Jingyun , Jost Reed M. , Koritala Brooke A. , Birch Eileen E.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To examine the developmental patterns of refractive error and optical components in hyperopic children with infantile (onset ≤12 months of age) accommodative or late‐onset (18–48 months of age) accommodative esotropia.

Methods

This prospective longitudinal study included children with infantile (n = 34) or late‐onset (n = 63) accommodative esotropia. Axial length (AL), anterior chamber depth (ACD), lens thickness (LT) and keratometry (K1, K2) were obtained with a Lenstar LS 900. Lenstar measures were recorded <6 months after cycloplegic spherical equivalent refraction (SER) was derived. An initial examination was conducted at 5.8 ± 1.5 years of age, with a follow‐up duration of 4.8 ± 0.8 years. A linear mixed‐effects model was used to estimate the rate of individual development for each ocular component and SER, and to compare the two groups.

Results

All biometric components changed with age. The rates of change with age for SER and AL were significantly different between the infantile and late‐onset groups (SER: −0.18 vs. −0.12D/year, p < 0.001; AL: 0.16 vs. 0.14 mm/year, p < 0.01). The rate of change with age of the AL/CR ratio was significantly different between the infantile and late‐onset groups (0.019 vs. 0.016, p < 0.001). No significant differences in the rates of change in ACD, LT, K1 or K2 were identified.

Conclusions

Major ocular biometric components in children continue to mature in both infantile and late‐onset accommodative esotropia. Annual change in axial length is smaller in late‐onset accommodative esotropia than for infantile accommodative esotropia, consistent with less change in the SER with age.
Selection of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Genotypes Through a Combining of Tolerance Indices and Root Architecture: An Efficient Approach for the Identification of Drought‐Tolerant Genotypes
Authors: Abderemane Bacar Abdallah , Fakiri Malika , Zeroual Abdelmonim , Mitache Mohammed , Houasli Chafika
Published: February 2025

Chickpea is generally grown on marginal soils around the world, where it depends mainly on residual moisture. The recurrent scarcity of rainfall hampers production and reduces grain yields. In the face of this changing climate, genotypes with well‐developed root systems might contribute to stabilization of yield under drought conditions. So the fundamental aim of our study is to combine yield production performance with the attributes of a prolific root system in order to identify drought‐tolerant genotypes. Thus, a large collection of chickpeas (Desi and Kabuli) was evaluated following an augmented randomized complete block design (RCBD) in three trials: two in contrasting environments to assess grain yield and its components and one in the greenhouse to explore root architecture. The three indices, namely, stress tolerance index (STI), geometric mean productivity (GMP) and mean productivity (MP), are best suited to selecting tolerant genotypes. With their high heritability and genetic advance, traits such as plant height, number of pods/seeds, surface area, diameter and seed perimeter should be given particular attention by breeders under both normal rainfall and drought conditions. In addition, significant positive correlations were found between grain yield under stress and root length and number of lateral roots. The combination of salient results from the three trials led to the identification of 15 promising genotypes based on grain yield, phenology and root proliferation. In the face of increasing drought, this research not only makes these promising genotypes available for use in crossbreeding blocks and directly in the field but also provides important information for identifying genotypes resilient to drought‐stress regions.
The Crucial Roles of Phloem Companion Cells in Response to Phosphorus Deficiency
Authors: Xia Chao , Huang Jing , Zhou Xiangjun , Payyavula Raja S. , Lan Hai , Chen Li‐Qing , Turgeon Robert , Zhang Cankui
Published: February 2025

Mineral deficiency is a major problem in agriculture. Plant adaption to low mineral environments involves signaling between shoots and roots, via the food transport cells, the sieve elements. However, due to the sequestered position of the sieve elements in the vascular bundles, identifying shoot‐to‐root mobile signals is challenging. In herbaceous species, sieve elements and companion cells (CCs) are isolated from other leaf tissues. We hypothesize that phloem CCs play an essential role by synthesizing shoot‐to‐root signals in response to mineral deficiency. To test this hypothesis, we analyzed gene expression responses in Arabidopsis CCs under phosphorus deficiency using TRAP‐Seq. Phosphorus was chosen for its importance in plant growth and the known role of shoot‐to‐root signaling in regulating root phosphate transporters during deficiency. Our findings revealed that CCs exhibit more dramatic molecular responses than other leaf cells. We also found that many genes altered in CCs have potential functions in regulating root growth. This is unexpected because it has been widely believed that shoot‐to‐root signaling is not involved in root growth regulation under P deficiency. The importance of CCs in regulating mineral deficiency may extend beyond phosphorus because shoot‐to‐root signaling is a common response to the deficiency of various minerals.
Dependence and Fictional Characters
Authors: Chakravarty Shamik
Published: February 2025

The artefactual theory of fiction holds that fictional characters are abstract and created artefacts like money and nations. One of its main proponents, Amie Thomasson, holds that fictional characters are ontologically dependent on a particular author or authors (rigid historical dependence) for their origin and on literary works for continued existence (generic constant dependence). While there have been objections to Thomasson's position, both the dependencies are dogmas held among artefactualists and the criticisms haven't yet systematically undermined them. In this paper, I argue against these two dependency claims by citing counterexamples, especially from a Twin Homer case, Fission Fiction case, No Man's Sky, a computer game, where an algorithm creates a character and in another instance, by showing how we humans actually create characters. If my arguments are sound, then a realist like Thomasson has no option to make sense of the data they set up for their theory apart from accepting Everett and Schroeder's theory that fictional characters are ideas. In the light of this, I set up a new criterion for the continued existence of fictional characters wherein they're ideas.