bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mad honey (wild honey) poisoning: clinical case series from Nepal
Authors: Thapa Anil Jung , Chapagain Subodh , Lamichhane Samit , Aryal Egesh , Sapkota Aashish , Ghimire Abishkar , Bhatt Bikash , Agarwal Sweta , Khadka Aayushma , Parajuli Suraj
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

Mad honey is commonly used for hypertension, and coronary artery disease, and as a sexual stimulant. Patients with mad honey poisoning present with dizziness, nausea, syncope, blurred vision, bradycardia, and hypotension with ECG findings of sinus bradycardia, complete AV block, and ST elevation.

Case discussion:

Here, the authors report five cases admitted to our tertiary care center following the consumption of mad honey. The amount of ingestion of honey varies from 1 to 2 teaspoons (~10–20 ml). Most of the cases presented with chief complaints of nausea, dizziness, and vomiting, and all the cases had hypotension and bradycardia. Two cases were admitted to the ward and three of them were admitted to the ICU for further management. They were managed with intravenous fluid, injection atropine along with adjunctive vasopressor and oxygen whenever necessary.

Discussion:

Mad honey contains grayanotoxin extracted from the nectar of Rhododendron species. This honey contains grayanotoxin, which binds to sodium channels in its open state causing hyperpolarization of the sodium channel predominantly causing gastrointestinal, neurological, and respiratory symptoms. Intravenous fluids and injection atropine are the mainstays of management in an ICU setup. Some also may require vasopressors.

Conclusion:

Mad honey poisoning is rare, and limited cases have been reported in Nepal. Physicians should consider mad honey poisoning in cases with ingestion history and clinical symptoms, as it may be a clinical diagnosis due to limited lab tests for grayanotoxin intoxication. Supportive management still forms the cornerstone for its management after diagnosis.
Necrotizing pancreatitis in an 8-year-old girl: a case report from Nepal
Authors: Jha Saroj Kumar , Jha Pinky , Karki Pearlbiga
Published: August 2024

Introduction and importance:

Necrotizing pancreatitis is an uncommon diagnosis in pediatric patients. Early diagnosis is difficult as the presentation varies significantly. However, it should be in the differential diagnosis of abdominal pain in the pediatric age group.

Case presentation:

An 8-year-old girl arrived with a 1-day history of vomiting, constipation, and abrupt, increasing epigastric discomfort. She didn’t have any noteworthy family or medical background. Upon examination, she seemed to be afebrile but also had discomfort in her stomach and symptoms of dehydration. An enlarged pancreas with necrotizing pancreatitis was seen in the first imaging. She received intravenous fluids, antibiotics, and analgesics as a treatment for her acute severe pancreatitis diagnosis. Since the patient continued to have fever, meropenem was prescribed in place of ceftriaxone at first. After 10 days of uncomplicated hospitalization, she was released from the hospital.

Discussion:

Once rare, pediatric pancreatitis now affects 3–13 out of every 100 000 people yearly. Although it is uncommon (<1% in children), necrotizing pancreatitis can happen. Its causes are similar to those of acute pancreatitis, involving genetic abnormalities and certain drugs. Abdominal discomfort, fever, vomiting, and nausea are among the symptoms. Imaging methods like contrast-enhanced CT are used in diagnosis. Surgery has given way to less intrusive techniques like catheter drainage as a form of treatment. Surgery is seldom required in pediatric instances, which are often handled conservatively.

Conclusion:

Childhood necrotizing pancreatitis is uncommon but dangerous; prompt diagnosis and prompt treatment are essential.
Unilateral adrenal metastases as an unusual primary presentation of hepatocellular carcinoma: a case report and literature review
Authors: Ghouri Raza Gulzar , Sharjeel Muhammad , Naeem Hamza , Abdullah Sikander , Khalid Umar Abdul Rehman , Basil Abdul Mabood
Published: August 2024

Introduction and importance:

Adrenal metastases can rarely present as a solitary clinical manifestation among cases with underlying hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Case presentation:

The authors present the case of a 53-year-old male with chronic liver disease due to chronic hepatitis C who presented with left flank pain. Imaging revealed a left-sided suprarenal mass. Following multidisciplinary assessment, the patient underwent left-sided nephrectomy and adrenalectomy, whereas histopathological correlation revealed microscopic foci of metastatic HCC in the resected gland. Postoperative abdominal imaging then revealed multifocal dysplastic lesions scattered through both the hepatic lobes. Subsequently, systemic treatment was initiated with sorafenib.

Clinical discussion:

These types of adrenal metastasis from the liver are extremely uncommon and need detailed evaluation of the liver and other potential metastatic sites. The choice of treatment will be indicated according to the type and site of the tumor.

Conclusion:

This case highlights the significance of thorough evaluation and individualized management in HCC-associated adrenal metastasis.
Acetaminophen effects upon formalin-evoked flinching, postformalin, and postincisional allodynia and conditioned place preference
Authors: Yun Mijung , Regen Naemi Ditlevsen , Anchondo Yuvicza , Eddinger Kelly , Malkmus Shelle , Roberts Steven W. , Donati Elisabetta , Leonardi Antonio , Yaksh Tony L.
Published: August 2024

Introduction:

We explored in mice, the analgesic, tolerance, dependency, and rewarding effects of systemic acetaminophen (APAP).

Methods:

Studies employed adult mice (C57Bl6). (1) Intraplantar formalin flinching + post formalin allodynia. Mice were given intraperitoneal APAP in a DMSO (5%)/Tween 80 (5%) or a water-based formulation before formalin flinching on day 1 and tactile thresholds assessed before and after APAP at day 12. (2) Paw incision. At 24 hours and 8 days after hind paw incision in male mice, effects of intraperitoneal APAP on tactile allodynia were assessed. (3) Repeated delivery. Mice received daily (4 days) analgesic doses of APAP or vehicle and tested upon formalin flinching on day 5. (4) Conditioned place preference. For 3 consecutive days, vehicle was given in the morning in either of 2 chambers and in each afternoon, an analgesic dose of morphine or APAP in the other chamber. On days 5 and 10, animals were allowed to select a “preferred” chamber.

Results:

Formalin in male mice resulted in biphasic flinching and an enduring postformalin tactile allodynia. Acetaminophen dose dependently decreased phase 2 flinching, and reversed allodynia was observed postflinching. At a comparable APAP dose, female mice showed similarly reduced phase 2 flinching. Incision allodynia was transiently reversed by APAP. Repeated APAP delivery showed no loss of effect after sequential injections or signs of withdrawal. Morphine, but not APAP or vehicle, resulted in robust place preference.

Conclusions:

APAP decreased flinching and allodynia observed following formalin and paw incision and an absence of tolerance, dependence, or rewarding properties.
Posttrial Experiences in Sustainment of a Scaled Model of the Systems Analysis and Improvement Approach (SAIA-SCALE) in the Absence of External Funding in Manica Province, Mozambique
Authors: Hazim Carmen E. , Coutinho Joana , Crocker Jonny , Asbjornsdottir Kristjana , Cruz Maria , Agostinho Mery , Amaral Fernando , de Fatima Cuembelo Maria , Dinis Aneth , Fernandes Quinhas , Gimbel Sarah , Inguane Celso , Murgorgo Filipe , Nassiaca Regina , Ramiro Isaias , Sherr Kenneth
Published: August 2024

Background:

Following the conclusion of a stepped-wedge cluster randomized trial of the Systems Analysis and Improvement Approach (SAIA) to optimize the prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission cascade in Manica Province, Mozambique, we conducted a natural experiment to test the sustainability of the delivery model with limited financial inputs.

Methods:

District nurse supervisors were encouraged to continue to facilitate SAIA cycles in subordinate health facilities and provided phone credit and tablet access to upload implementation data. No additional resources (eg, funds for transport, refreshments, or supplies) were provided. Barriers to implementation were collected via conversations with district supervisors.

Results:

Monthly facilitation of SAIA cycles continued in 11 of 12 (92%) districts and 13 of 36 (36%) facilities through 12 months posttrial, which declined to 10 districts and 10 facilities by the end of the 15-month posttrial period. Despite interest among district supervisors to continue implementation, logistical and financial barriers prevented visits to facilities not in close proximity to district management offices. Turnover of district supervisors resulted in replacements not having knowledge and experience facilitating SAIA. The lack of refreshments for facility staff and limited supplies (pens and papers) were cited as additional barriers.

Conclusion:

Despite the scalability of the SAIA model, it is susceptible to implementation decay without sufficient health system resources. Additional research is needed to test sustainment strategies that address identified barriers and enable continued delivery of the implementation strategy core components at a sufficient level of fidelity to maintain desired health system improvements and patient-level outcomes.
MR Lymphangiography
Authors: Lee Seunghyun , Hur Saebeom , Choi Young Hun , Hwang Jae-Yeon , Cheon Jung-Eun
Published: August 2024

Congenital lymphatic flow disorders collectively refer to a heterogeneous group of diseases that manifest as chylothorax, chylous ascites, intestinal lymphangiectasia, protein-losing enteropathy, and peripheral extremity or genital lymphedema, all in the absence of identifiable injury to the lymphatic system. We have only recently begun to understand congenital lymphatic flow disorders through the ability to image lymph flow dynamically. Intranodal dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance lymphangiography (DCMRL) is a crucial technique for imaging lymphatic flow in pediatric patients with congenital lymphatic flow disorders. However, as lymphatic imaging is still a nascent discipline with many uncertainties regarding optimal imaging and treatment, effective patient management requires a comprehensive understanding of imaging techniques, disease pathophysiology, and multidisciplinary treatment approaches. Above all, a fundamental understanding of the physiological lymphatic flow of the central conducting lymphatics is essential for the correct interpretation of DCMRL images. This knowledge helps to avoid unnecessary examinations, erroneous diagnoses, and potentially harmful treatment approaches. This review provides an overview of the methods, advantages, and precautions for interpreting the DCMRL examination, a state-of-the-art lymphatic system imaging technique, and shares various case studies.
Tape-assisted fabrication method for constructing PDMS membrane-containing culture devices with cyclic radial stretching stimulation
Authors: Wu Yun-Chen , Yang Jing-Yi , Hsu Chia-Hsien
Published: August 2024

Advanced
in vitro
culture systems have emerged as alternatives to animal testing and traditional cell culture methods in biomedical research. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is frequently used in creating sophisticated culture devices owing to its elastomeric properties, which allow mechanical stretching to simulate physiological movements in cell experiments. We introduce a straightforward method that uses three types of commercial tape—generic, magic and masking—to fabricate PDMS membranes with microscale thicknesses (47.2 µm for generic, 58.1 µm for magic and 89.37 µm for masking) in these devices. These membranes are shaped as the bases of culture wells and can perform cyclic radial movements controlled via a vacuum system. In experiments with A549 cells under three mechanical stimulation conditions, we analysed transcriptional regulators responsive to external mechanical stimuli. Results indicated increased nuclear yes-associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) activity in both confluent and densely packed cells under cyclically mechanical strains (Pearson’s coefficient (PC) of 0.59 in confluent and 0.24 in dense cells) compared with static (PC = 0.47 in confluent and 0.13 in dense) and stretched conditions (PC = 0.55 in confluent and 0.20 in dense). This technique offers laboratories without microfabrication capabilities a viable option for exploring cellular behaviour under dynamic mechanical stimulation using PDMS membrane-equipped devices.
Retrospective analysis of Acinetobacter baumannii bacteraemia risk factors, complications, and mortality in a tertiary university hospital in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Kaki Reham
Published: August 2024

Introduction. Acinetobacter baumannii is a nosocomial pathogen of which many isolates are multidrug resistant. A. baumannii is a major cause of healthcare-acquired infections in patients who are critically ill, and A. baumannii bacteraemia (ABB) is associated with high mortality. Several factors are known to play a role in A. baumannii transmission and the emergence of resistance.
 
Aim. This study aimed to retrospectively analyse ABB cases in Saudi Arabia, where little is known about the prevalence, risk factors, clinical disease, treatment outcomes, and mortality associated with this infection.
 
Methods. A retrospective chart review was performed from January 1, 2015, until December 31, 2022, to identify all patients 14 years and above with ABB. Demographic and clinical data, as well as results from laboratory analyses, were collected from patients’ electronic charts. Statistical analyses were performed on the data to identify factors associated with 90-day mortality.
 
Results. In total, 112 ABB cases were identified with a mean age of 58.0 years, of which 66.1% were males. Of these cases, 71 (63.4%) died. The factors that were found to be associated with 90-day mortality were the Charlson comorbidity score, Pitt bacteraemia score, quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (qSOFA) score (p < 0.001 for each), hospital ward (p < 0.02), short duration of antibiotic treatment (p < 0.01), and higher age (p < 0.05). The most common source of infection was Central Line-associated Bloodstream Infection in 52.7%. Also associated with mortality were inappropriate antimicrobial therapy (p < 0.02) and empirical use of colistin (p < 0.05). In many patients, ABB was caused by carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii (CRAB) (69.6%), and 74.4% of those patients died.
 
Conclusion. CRAB is a growing threat in hospitals in Saudi Arabia especially in the critical care setting and carries a very high risk of mortality. Future studies should focus on novel ways of preventing CRAB infections and on the assessment of promising new antimicrobials such as cefiderocol or sulbactam-durlobactam and other treatment options such as bacteriophages.
Genome-based reclassification of Williamsia marianensis as a later heterotypic synonym of Williamsia muralis
Authors: Kumar Abhilash , Sood Utkarsh , Garg Gauri , Lal Rup , Rawat Charu Dogra
Published: August 2024

The present study used whole-genome data to clarify the taxonomic assignment of two closely related Williamsia species. Genomic information for 10 type strains was available at the time of conducting this analysis. One group of type strains was found to be conspecific, namely Williamsia muralis Kämpfer et al. 1999 and Williamsia marianensis Pathom-aree et al. 2006. The 16S rRNA gene sequences showed 99 % similarity between these type strains. Whole-genome-based comparisons showed that Williamsia muralis DSM 44343T and Williamsia marianensis DSM 44944T shared 98.07 % average nucleotide identity, 98.29 % average amino acid identity and 84.80 % digital DNA–DNA hybridization values. These values exceeded the threshold values for bacterial species delineation. Further, phylogenomic analysis based on the core genomes of the strains under study confirmed that Williamsia muralis DSM 44343T and Williamsia marianensis DSM 44944T formed a monophyletic clade. Based on this evidence, we propose the reclassification of Williamsia marianensis Pathom-aree et al. 2006 as a later heterotypic synonym of Williamsia muralis Kämpfer et al. 1999.
Generation and characterisation of mouse models of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD)
Authors: Arudkumar Jayshen , Chey Yu Chinn Joshua , Piltz Sandra G , Thomas Paul Q , Adikusuma Fatwa
Published: August 2024

CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing technology has revolutionised the creation of precise and permanent modifications to DNA, enabling the generation of diverse animal models for investigating potential treatments. Here, we provide a protocol for the use of CRISPR-Cas9 to create murine models of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) along with a step-by-step guide for their phenotypic and molecular characterisation. The experimental procedures include CRISPR microinjection of embryos, molecular testing at the DNA, RNA, and protein levels, forelimb grip strength testing, immunostaining and serum creatine kinase (CK) testing. We further provide suggestions for analysis and interpretation of the generated data, as well as the limitations of our approach. These protocols are designed for researchers who intend to generate and use mouse models to study DMD as well as those seeking a detailed framework of phenotyping to contribute to the broader landscape of genetic disorder investigations.
Transcriptional analysis of efferocytosis in mouse skin wounds
Authors: Krause Will , King Diane , Horsley Valerie
Published: August 2024

Defects in apoptotic cell clearance, or efferocytosis, can cause inflammatory diseases and prevent tissue repair due in part to inducing a pro-repair transcriptional program in phagocytic cells like macrophages. While the cellular machinery and metabolic pathways involved in efferocytosis have been characterized, the precise efferocytic response of macrophages is dependent on the identity and macromolecular cues of apoptotic cells, and the complex tissue microenvironment in which efferocytosis occurs. Here, we find that macrophages undergoing active efferocytosis in mid-stage mouse skin wounds in vivo display a pro-repair gene program, while efferocytosis of apoptotic skin fibroblasts in vitro also induces an inflammatory transcription response. These data provide a resource for understanding how the skin wound environment influences macrophage efferocytosis and will be useful for future investigations that define the role of efferocytosis during tissue repair.
A Paper-based Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) Assay for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza
Authors: Kamel Mohamed , Davidson Josiah Levi , Verma Mohit S.
Published: August 2024

Avian influenza outbreaks have had significant economic and public health consequences worldwide. Therefore, prompt, reliable, and cost-effective diagnostic devices are crucial for scrutinizing and confining highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses (HPAIVs). Our study introduced and evaluated a novel paper-based loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) test for diagnosing the H5 subtype of the avian influenza virus (AIV). We meticulously designed and screened LAMP primers targeting the H5-haemagglutinin (H5-HA) gene of AIV and fine-tuned the paper-based detection assay for best performance. The paper-based LAMP assay demonstrated a detection limit of 500 copies per reaction (25 copies/µL). This inexpensive, user-friendly point-of-need diagnostic tool holds great promise, especially in resource-limited settings. It only requires a water bath for incubation and enables visual detection of results without special equipment. Overall, the paper-based LAMP assay provides a promising method for rapidly and reliably detecting the H5 subtype of AIV, contributing to improved surveillance and early intervention strategies.
Hyd/UBR5 defines a tumor suppressor pathway that links Polycomb repressive complex to regulated protein degradation in tissue growth control and tumorigenesis
Authors: Wen Pei , Lei Huiyan , Deng Hua , Deng Su , Rodriguez Tirado Carla , Wang Meiling , Mu Ping , Zheng Yonggang , Pan Duojia
Published: August 2024

Tumor suppressor genes play critical roles in normal tissue homeostasis, and their dysregulation underlies human diseases including cancer. Besides human genetics, model organisms such asDrosophilahave been instrumental in discovering tumor suppressor pathways that were subsequently shown to be highly relevant in human cancer. Here we show that hyperplastic disc (Hyd), one of the first tumor suppressors isolated genetically inDrosophilaand encoding an E3 ubiquitin ligase with hitherto unknown substrates, and Lines (Lin), best known for its role in embryonic segmentation, define an obligatory tumor suppressor protein complex (Hyd–Lin) that targets the zinc finger-containing oncoprotein Bowl for ubiquitin-mediated degradation, with Lin functioning as a substrate adaptor to recruit Bowl to Hyd for ubiquitination. Interestingly, the activity of the Hyd–Lin complex is directly inhibited by a micropeptide encoded by another zinc finger gene,drumstick(drm), which functions as a pseudosubstrate by displacing Bowl from the Hyd–Lin complex, thus stabilizing Bowl. We further identify the epigenetic regulator Polycomb repressive complex1 (PRC1) as a critical upstream regulator of the Hyd–Lin–Bowl pathway by directly repressing the transcription of the micropeptidedrm. Consistent with these molecular studies, we show that genetic inactivation of Hyd, Lin, or PRC1 resulted in Bowl-dependent hyperplastic tissue overgrowth in vivo. We also provide evidence that the mammalian homologs of Hyd (UBR5, known to be recurrently dysregulated in various human cancers), Lin (LINS1), and Bowl (OSR1/2) constitute an analogous protein degradation pathway in human cells, and that OSR2 promotes prostate cancer tumorigenesis. Altogether, these findings define a previously unrecognized tumor suppressor pathway that links epigenetic program to regulated protein degradation in tissue growth control and tumorigenesis.
A fast and adaptive detection framework for genome-wide chromatin loop mapping from Hi-C data
Authors: Chen Siyuan , Wang Jiuming , Jung Inkyung , Qiu Zhaowen , Gao Xin , Li Yu
Published: August 2024

Chromatin loop identification plays an important role in molecular biology and 3D genomics research, as it constitutes a fundamental process in transcription and gene regulation. Such precise chromatin structures can be identified across genome-wide interaction matrices via Hi-C data analysis, which is essential for unraveling the intricacies of transcriptional regulation. Given the increasing number of genome-wide contact maps, derived from both in situ Hi-C and single-cell Hi-C experiments, there is a pressing need for efficient and resilient algorithms capable of processing data from diverse experiments rapidly and adaptively. Here, we propose YOLOOP, a novel detection-based framework that is different from the conventional paradigm. YOLOOP stands out for its speed, surpassing the performance of previous state-of-the-art (SOTA) chromatin loop detection methods. It achieves a 30-fold acceleration compared with classification-based methods, up to 20-fold acceleration compared with the SOTA kernel-based framework, and a fivefold acceleration compared with statistical algorithms. Furthermore, the proposed framework is capable of generalizing across various cell types, multiresolution Hi-C maps, and diverse experimental protocols. Compared with the existing paradigms, YOLOOP shows up to a 10% increase in recall and a 15% increase in F1-score, particularly noteworthy in the GM12878 cell line. YOLOOP also offers fast adaptability with straightforward fine-tuning, making it readily applicable to extremely sparse single-cell Hi-C contact maps. It maintains its exceptional speed, completing genome-wide detection at a 10 kb resolution for a single-cell contact map within 1 min and for a 900-cell-superimposed contact map within 3 min, enabling fast analysis of large-scale single-cell data.
Exploring the intersection of information literacy and rights in the information age: presentation of the conceptual model
Authors: Eltemasi Mahshid
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the mutual relationship between information literacy and information rights, focusing on how people with high information literacy recognize and use information rights.

Design/methodology/approach

This study explores how individuals with information literacy understand and use information rights. This research uses a dual approach. Quantitative surveys, involving 217 Master's and PhD students, delve into the dimensions of information rights. Rigorous stratified sampling ensures diversity. A comprehensive questionnaire, exhibiting high reliability and validity, is administered before and after a two-month online information literacy course. The t-test statistical tests analyze the quantitative data. For deeper insights, qualitative open-answer questionnaires with 50 top-performing participants uncover experiences and perceptions. A two-stage coding process is applied to identify themes.

Findings

Major findings showcase the nuanced understanding of information rights shaped by education, experiences and strategic use. Recommendations include emphasizing online privacy education and active roles for information-literate individuals in policy advocacy.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the understanding of information rights, providing a foundation for informed policy and education.
Does remaining in Russia affect analysts’ sentiment?
Authors: Mamatzakis Emmanuel C. , Neri Lorenzo , Russo Antonella
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Since February 2022, the conflict between Ukraine and Russia has significantly influenced global financial markets, altering investor behavior and increasing market volatility. Western countries’ sanctions on Russia have influenced market uncertainty. Academic literature has deeply investigated the market’s reaction to the conflict and demonstrated a diverse range of impacts. Our study delves into how corporate decisions to remain in or exit Russia during the conflict influence analyst sentiment.

Design/methodology/approach

Leveraging data on analysts' revision scores (ARS) from Eikon, Refinitiv, our analysis underscores the importance of analysts during periods of uncertainty (Kacperczyk and Seru, 2007; Loh and Stulz, 2018). Using static and dynamic panel analysis, we examine the impact of Russia exposure on ARS while controlling for key variables.

Findings

Companies that retain a presence in Russia tend to enhance the overall ARS score, contributing to increased optimism among analysts regarding forecasts for the firms in question. Controlling for endogeneity and underlying dynamics in ARS does not alter the main findings. All in all, the results confirm the absence of an impact on the companies' returns post-announcement to continue or leave Russia after the start of the conflict (Balyuk and Fedyk, 2023).

Originality/value

This research sheds light on the complex relationship between geopolitical events, corporate decisions and investor sentiment, offering valuable insights for stakeholders, policymakers and regulators.
Self-serving leadership and employee knowledge hiding: a dual-pathway model
Authors: Zhang Yajun , Zhang Luni , Zhang Junwei , Wang Jingjing , Akhtar Muhammad Naseer
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Drawing upon the cognitive-affective processing system (CAPS) framework, the current study proposes a dual-pathway model that suggests self-serving leadership has a positive influence on employee knowledge hiding. The study also examines the mediating effects of relative deprivation and emotional exhaustion, as well as the moderating effect of political skill, to provide a comprehensive understanding of these relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed two-wave time-lagged survey data collected from 644 employees in 118 teams within a company based in Shenzhen, China. Moreover, hierarchical linear modeling (HLM) was used to test the hypothesized relationships.

Findings

The results indicated that self-serving leadership positively influenced employee knowledge hiding, and this relationship was mediated by relative deprivation and emotional exhaustion. Additionally, political skill was found to negatively moderate both the direct relationship between self-serving leadership and relative deprivation and emotional exhaustion, and the indirect path from self-serving leadership to employee knowledge hiding through relative deprivation and emotional exhaustion.

Originality/value

This study makes a unique contribution to the knowledge management literature in several ways. First, it introduces self-serving leadership as a predictor of employee knowledge hiding, expanding the current understanding of this phenomenon. Second, it offers a novel conceptualization, suggesting that employees coping with self-serving leadership may experience relative deprivation and emotional exhaustion, and these factors can predict their engagement in knowledge hiding. Third, the research findings on the moderating role of political skill push the boundaries of the knowledge-hiding literature, providing new insights into the conditions under which this behavior occurs.
Synthesis of cottonseed oil water-based alkyd resin and its coating performance
Authors: Zhang Qiqi , Zhen Weijun , Ou Quansheng , Abulajiang Yusufu , Ma Gangshan
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The objective was to investigate the utility of cottonseed oil (CSO) as a raw material for the synthesis of CSO water-based alkyd resin. The synthesis involved the polymerization of CSO, trimethylolpropane, phthalic anhydride (PA) and trimellitic anhydride (TMA). The prepared resin coating material was subsequently applied to the surface of steel structure material.

Design/methodology/approach

This study aimed to synthesize water-based alkyd resins using CSO. Therefore, the alkyd resin was introduced with TMA containing carboxyl groups and neutralized with triethylamine (TEA) to form a water-soluble salt. Then, the esterification kinetics of CSO water-based alkyd resin were investigated, and finally, the basic properties of CSO water-based alkyd resin coating were evaluated.

Findings

It was demonstrated that CSO water-based alkyd resin exhibited excellent water solubility and that the esterification kinetic of the synthesis reaction could be described by a second-order reaction. The coating properties of the material were investigated and found to have good basic properties, with 40% resin addition having the best corrosion resistance. Consequently, it could be effectively applied to the surface of steel structural materials.

Originality/value

This study not only met the requirement of environmentally friendly development but also expanded the application of CSO through the synthesis of CSO water-based alkyd resin via alcoholysis. Compared to fatty acid process, the alcoholysis reduced the need for fatty acid pre-extraction, simplifying the alkyd resin synthesis process. Thus, economic costs are effectively reduced.
Application of ultrasonic welding in developing new breastfeeding bra with user-centric features
Authors: Sowmi P. Ashika Sweetlin , G. Renjini
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Breastfeeding bras are functional garments having specialised features to facilitate easy breastfeeding. The purpose of this paper is to design and develop breastfeeding bra prototypes with a focus on the needs of the user.

Design/methodology/approach

The method uses gathering breastfeeding user requirements through consumer surveys. The subsequent data analysis and a literature review provided the basis for feature selection for the breastfeeding bra designs. The bras were constructed using ultrasonic welding and bonding techniques. The mechanical properties of the fabric were measured. Lastly, the designed bras underwent a wear trial to evaluate their effectiveness.

Findings

The bra prototypes use non-restrictive designs and aesthetically appealing construction methods with smooth panel joints. The results of the wear trial demonstrated the successful incorporation of user requirements in the final product.

Originality/value

The insights from user-need mapping through consumer surveys and a literature review provided the basis for the new design of breastfeeding bras using stitchless technology. The developed bras have unique features that have not been explored earlier in this product category.
Development of a risk assessment model for adopting public–private partnership in building Ghana’s critical infrastructure resilience against unexpected events
Authors: Ampratwum Godslove , Osei-Kyei Robert , Tam Vivian W.Y.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Critical infrastructures are susceptible to unexpected disruptive events that affect their functional performance. Public–private partnership (PPP) offers opportunities for stakeholders to build resilience by proactively coordinating and positioning the capabilities of the stakeholders. Partnerships are mostly riddled with risks that affect the performance and goal attainment of the partnerships. The purpose of this study was to develop a risk assessment model for PPP in critical infrastructure resilience (CIR) using fuzzy synthetic evaluation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a quantitative approach to analyse survey responses from respondents. Mean score ranking, Kendall’s coefficient of concordance and fuzzy synthetic evaluation were used to analyse the responses from respondents.

Findings

This study identified seven risk categories; Political, Financial, Ethical, Bureaucracies and red tapes, Legal, Coordination and Institutional as the critical risk categories that may frustrate the partners in a PPP arrangement from performing their responsibilities. A risk assessment model was also developed in the form of a risk index equation to ascertain the risk level of using a PPP to build critical infrastructure resilience in Ghana. It was found that the risk level in using PPP to build critical infrastructure resilience is high.

Practical implications

The outcome of this study can be used as an informative and guiding tool to streamline any future PPP arrangement or even amend current PPP arrangements in critical infrastructure resilience.

Originality/value

The study has drawn attention to the risks in using PPP to build critical infrastructure resilience within the Ghanaian context. It has also established a risk index to assess the risk level of using PPP to build critical infrastructure resilience. This risk index can be used to ascertain the risk level in different countries. In addition, no research has been conducted to empirically test the risks in using PPP to build critical infrastructure resilience thus making this study a novel contribution to the critical infrastructure resilience research domain.
Fractions of soil phosphorus mediated by rhizospheric phoD‐harbouring bacteria of deep‐rooted desert species are determined by fine‐root traits
Authors: Gao Yanju , Tariq Akash , Zeng Fanjiang , Sardans Jordi , Al‐Bakre Dhafer A. , Peñuelas Josep
Published: August 2024

Soil phosphorus (P) availability is a crucial factor determining primary productivity in terrestrial ecosystem. Plant functional traits and microbes under P‐deficient conditions can respond positively to increase soil P bioavailability. Whether and/or how the fine‐root traits (FRTs) of deep‐rooted desert species affect the rhizosphere and bulk soil community of phoD‐harbouring bacteria and thus improve the availability of soil P, however, remains unclear.

We conducted a three‐year artificial outdoor pot experiment of P supply using Alhagi sparsifolia Shap. (hereafter Alhagi) to address this gap. Fine‐root samples from 1‐ and 3‐year‐old Alhagi seedlings and samples of the rhizospheres and bulk soil were collected. High‐throughput sequencing, sequential extraction and root system scanning were used to determine soil phoD‐harbouring bacteria community, Hedley‐P fractions and the FRTs.

Fine‐root surface area (RSA), specific root length, foliar Mn concentration (indicating the quantities of root carboxylates that are released) and acid phosphatase (APase) activity were significantly higher in the no‐P supply compared with the high‐P supply conditions. APase activity was significantly higher by 27%, but the foliar Mn concentration was remarkably lower by 26%, in the 3‐ than the 1‐year‐old seedlings. The rhizospheric concentrations of labile P, moderately labile P, inorganic P and organic P in the no‐P supply condition were 5%, 11%, 10% and 21% higher, respectively, in the 3‐ than the 1‐year‐old seedlings. RSA and the foliar Mn concentration were dominated root predictors for the rhizospheric phoD‐harbouring bacteria community for the 1‐year‐old seedlings, whereas fine‐root P concentration was the dominated root predictor for the rhizospheric and bulk soil phoD‐harbouring bacteria communities for the 3‐year‐old seedlings. Soil water content, as the most dominant soil factor driving the variation of phoD‐harbouring bacteria community, notably could not be ignored. FRTs were the main factors that directly and positively determined rhizospheric phoD‐harbouring bacteria community and thus influenced soil P availability, but bulk soil phoD‐harbouring bacteria community were dominated by inorganic P concentration. The importance of fine‐root morphological traits to soil P availability gradually increased as the plants grew.

Overall, our results emphasize the significance of rhizospheric phoD‐harbouring bacteria determined by the effect of FRTs on the bioavailability of soil P.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Gendering starvation: Women's experiences of the Kazakh famine, 1930–1933
Authors: Kaşıkçı Mehmet Volkan
Published: August 2024

Based on archival sources and previously underexplored famine testimonies, this article provides the first study of gender and women's experiences during the Kazakh famine. First, I provide a discussion of motherhood in this time of catastrophe. Traditional parental norms collapsed in a similar way to other catastrophes across the world. The second part of the article offers a discussion of who survived the famine. I argue that many parents preferred saving their sons at the expense of their daughters and consequently more boys survived the famine than girls. Son preference manifested itself strongly in the catastrophic years of famine as saving a man's lineage was deemed to be essential. The last part discusses sexual violence and sexual barter. I show that rape and prostitution were relatively less widespread in Kazakhstan, while sexual violence and barter frequently took a different form. Instead of directly raping women, abusers usually forced women to marry them as second wives. Unlike many examples in world history, sexual barter usually took place not between women and men, but between abuser men and male relatives of female victims. Son preference and the sale of women are reflections of how strongly patriarchal the nomadic society was.
Unpacking the stance of upgradation of industrial structure, technological trade, and sustainable development in top‐ten high‐income countries
Authors: Rasheed Muhammad Qamar , Yuhuan Zhao , Haseeb Abdul , Saud Shah
Published: August 2024

The industrial structure plays a key role in economic and sustainable development, global competitiveness, and prosperity. Hence, it is crucial to understand the current industrial structure and technological trade in the top‐ten high‐income countries. Therefore, the aspiration of this research is to unpack the stance of upgradation of industrial structure, technological trade, and sustainable development. To this end, the second‐generation estimation approaches were adopted for the Top‐ten high‐per‐capita high‐income countries, namely, Australia, Belgium, Denmark, Germany, France, Luxembourg, Singapore, Norway, Sweden, and the United States from 2001 to 2018. The results drawn from the Driscoll–Kraay standard errors suggest that the current industrial structure contributes to carbon footprint and increases environmental degradation. In the same way, financial development increases environmental degradation and poses a threat to sustainable development. Contrarily, trade is negatively related to carbon footprint and curbing environmental degradation. Globalization and renewable energy mitigate carbon footprint and bring sustainable development. The HDI has a positive but insignificant relationship with carbon footprint. Additionally, the causation illustrates a reciprocal interaction between carbon footprint and trade; however, no causal link was detected between industrialization and carbon footprint. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners to formulate effective policies.
Risk factors affecting the food safety risk in food business operations for risk‐based inspection: A systematic review
Authors: Ze Y. , van Asselt E. D. , Focker M. , van der Fels‐Klerx H. J.
Published: August 2024

Foodborne illnesses result in a high disease burden worldwide, making food safety control of food business operations (FBOs) an urgent issue. With public agencies and FBOs facing challenges in monitoring the complex food supply chain with limited resources, scientific and objective insights into those factors that are related to food safety at FBOs are needed. These factors can be used as input for risk‐based inspection. We conducted a systematic review to identify and analyze risk factors affecting the FBOs’ food safety risk. We used a set of predefined search strings in Scopus and Web of Science to search for scientific manuscripts published in the English language between January 1 2003 and February 1 2023. The review identified 53 relevant studies and 43 risk factors. The presence of certified personnel turned out to be the most cited factor. Nearly half of the extracted factors had only been investigated in one study. Additional challenges were identified for developing a universal ready‐to‐use list of factors for the building of a risk‐based inspection method, such as the limitation in the applicability of identified factors in different types of FBOs, and the variability in conclusions between publications for certain factors (e.g., FBO location and inspection history), stressing the need for additional research. Future studies should also prioritize standardizing definitions and measurements, particularly regarding compliance factors. In general, the current list of factors brought forward in our review lays the groundwork for building a transparent, objective, and risk‐based method for food safety inspections of FBOs.
Achieving sustainability in heat drying processing: Leveraging artificial intelligence to maintain food quality and minimize carbon footprint
Authors: Yudhistira Bara , Adi Prakoso , Mulyani Rizka , Chang Chao‐Kai , Gavahian Mohsen , Hsieh Chang‐Wei
Published: August 2024

The food industry is a significant contributor to carbon emissions, impacting carbon footprint (CF), specifically during the heat drying process. Conventional heat drying processes need high energy and diminish the nutritional value and sensory quality of food. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in food processing to enhance quality and reduce CF, with a focus on heat drying, a high energy‐consuming method, and offer a promising avenue for the industry to be consistent with sustainable development goals. Our finding shows that AI can maintain food quality, including nutritional and sensory properties of dried products. It determines the optimal drying temperature for improving energy efficiency, yield, and life cycle cost. In addition, dataset training is one of the key challenges in AI applications for food drying. AI needs a vast and high‐quality dataset that directly impacts the performance and capabilities of AI models to optimize and automate food drying.
The occurrence, role, and management strategies for phytic acid in foods
Authors: Li Bailin , Zhou Yijie , Wen Lingrong , Yang Bao , Farag Mohamed A. , Jiang Yueming
Published: August 2024

Phytic acid, a naturally occurring compound predominantly found in cereals and legumes, is the focus of this review. This review investigates its distribution across various food sources, elucidating its dual roles in foods. It also provides new insights into the change in phytic acid level during food storage and the evolving trends in phytic acid management. Although phytic acid can function as a potent color stabilizer, flavor enhancer, and preservative, its antinutritional effects in foods restrict its applications. In terms of management strategies, numerous treatments for degrading phytic acid have been reported, each with varying degradation efficacies and distinct mechanisms of action. These treatments encompass traditional methods, biological approaches, and emerging technologies. Traditional processing techniques such as soaking, milling, dehulling, heating, and germination appear to effectively reduce phytic acid levels in processed foods. Additionally, fermentation and phytase hydrolysis demonstrated significant potential for managing phytic acid in food processing. In the future, genetic modification, due to its high efficiency and minimal environmental impact, should be prioritized to downregulate the biosynthesis of phytic acid. The review also delves into the biosynthesis and metabolism of phytic acid and elaborates on the mitigation mechanism of phytic acid using biotechnology. The challenges in the application of phytic acid in the food industry were also discussed. This study contributes to a better understanding of the roles phytic acid plays in food and the sustainability and safety of the food industry.
Application of radio frequency energy in processing of fruit and vegetable products
Authors: Tang Yingjie , Jing Pu , Jiao Shunshan
Published: August 2024

Thermal processing is commonly employed to ensure the quality and extend the shelf‐life of fruits and vegetables. Radio frequency (RF) heating has been used as a promising alternative treatment to replace conventional thermal processing methods with advantages of rapid, volumetric, and deep penetration heating characteristics. This article provides comprehensive information regarding RF heating uniformity and applications in processing of fruit and vegetable products, including disinfestation, blanching, drying, and pasteurization. The dielectric properties of fruits and vegetables and their products have also been summarized. In addition, recommendations for future research on RF heating are proposed to enhance practical applications for fruits and vegetables processing in future.