bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hybrid organisations embedded in resource-poor contexts: linking organisational capabilities and individual capabilities – a slippery ground?
Authors: Strambach Simone , Momanyi Stephen Omwenga
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to contribute to research on hybrid organisations operating within the information and communication technology for development paradigm to foster socio-economic inclusion through the capacity building of marginalised individual youth to enable their entry and participation in the formal labour market.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a qualitative research design, the authors investigated impact sourcing service providers and their beneficiaries to unpack how hybrid organisations fulfil their social mission and to provide a nuanced understanding of their needed capabilities. Data triangulation through document analysis, participant observation and semi-structured interviews were conducted for the empirical findings’ robustness and in-depth analysis.

Findings

This paper illuminates how hybrids strived to build beneficiaries' capabilities through empirically grounded approaches of “standardised” and “individualised” skills development, which were strongly connected to the perceived capabilities among the beneficiaries. Organisations that practiced the “individualised” approach imparted technical knowledge and, depending on individual needs, relevant social skills. Critically, the empirical findings call into question the effectiveness of the scalability model, as the results showed that the creation of standardised, low-skilled and low-paid jobs contradicts the idealised self-help status that employment advocates. In addition, the findings underline the central role of constant experimentation, resilience and organisational learning in revamping capabilities of hybrid organisations. Remarkably, compared to organisations committed to the “standardised” technical competency path, the results underscored the difficulties that organisations taking an “individualised" approach face in developing organisational capabilities for their financial sustainability. Further, organisations engaged in standardised” skills development were found to readapt their business model to the economic value and kept the wording of dual mission as a narrative.

Originality/value

The paper makes a conceptual and empirical contribution bringing together two separately developed literature strands – the organisational capability approach and – the individual capability approach, to enhance a more profound understanding of how both capabilities are connected to each other in the dual-mission orientation of hybrids embedded in resource-poor environments, global value chains, Global South, hybrid organisations, organisational and individual capability building.
Voltammetric determination of a UV filter pollutant using a platinum electrode modified by a polymer membrane based on ß-cyclodextrin
Authors: Laieb Roumaissa , Ghodbane Ilhem , Benyahia Rahma , Lamari Rim , Zougar Saida , Kherrrat Rochdi
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to develop an electrochemical sensor for the detection of benzophenone (BP) as an alternative to conventional techniques that are known, expensive, complex and less sensitive.

Design/methodology/approach

The developed sensor is a platinum electrode modified with a plasticized polymer film based on ß-cyclodextrin, using PVC as the polymer, PEG as the plasticizer and ß-CD as the ionophore. This sensor is characterized by various techniques, such as optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and cyclic voltammetry. This latter is also used for analyzing kinetic processes at the electrode/electrolyte interface and to evaluate the selectivity and sensitivity of the sensor.

Findings

The results highlight the performance of our sensor. In fact, it exhibits a linear response extending from 10−19 to 10−13 M, with a correlation coefficient of 0.9836. What is more, it has an excellent detection limit of 10−19 M and a good sensitivity of 21.24 µA/M.

Originality/value

The results of this investigation demonstrated that the developed sensor is an analytical tool of choice for the monitoring of BP in the aqueous phase. The suggested sensor is fast, simple, reproducible and inexpensive.
Analyzing the impact of TiO2 filler on the wear characteristics of flax fiber-reinforced epoxy composite using the Taguchi approach
Authors: Prabhu Ravikantha , Mendonca Sharun , Bellairu Pavana Kumara , DSouza Rudolf Charles , Bhat Thirumaleshwara
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impact of titanium oxide (TiO2) filler on the coefficient of friction (COF) and specific wear rate (SWR) in flax fiber reinforced epoxy composites (FFRCs) under abrasive wear conditions utilizing the Taguchi approach. The primary objective is to enhance wear resistance and promote the development of sustainable materials for various applications.

Design/methodology/approach

Epoxy/flax composites with varying TiO2 filler content (0–8 wt%) are fabricated through the hand layup method. Subsequently, wear testing is conducted following ASTM G99-05 standards. The Taguchi design of experiments (DOE) and analysis of variance (ANOVA) are utilized for statistical analysis.

Findings

Results indicate a significant improvement in abrasive wear properties with the incorporation of TiO2 filler. The COF is found to be most influenced by the normal load (55.19%), followed by grit size, wt% TiO2 filler and sliding distance. SWR is found to be most influenced by the grit size (42.92%), followed by wt% TiO2, normal load and sliding distance. Notably, the Taguchi model aligns well with experimental results, demonstrating its efficacy in predicting the abrasive wear behavior of FFRCs.

Originality/value

This research introduces a novel hybrid composite that combines TiO2 filler and flax fibers, showcasing their potential to enhance the tribological properties of epoxy composites. The study offers valuable insights into optimizing abrasive wear test variables in natural fiber-reinforced composites using Taguchi DOE and ANOVA, crucial for improving the performance of sustainable materials in engineering applications.
Simultaneous distinct cutaneous fungal infections with chromoblastomycosis due to Exophiala xenobiotica and hyalohyphomycosis due to Scedosporium apiospermum in a patient with severe cellular immunodeficiency
Authors: Minakawa Fumika , Yamamoto Takenobu , Aoyama Yumi
Published: August 2024

Deep‐seated dermatomycosis is a rare disease that is often caused by trauma and/or systemic immunodeficiency. We describe a case of chromoblastomycosis complicated by hyalohyphomycosis that occurred simultaneously at different sites. A 92‐year‐old Japanese man who had been taking oral prednisolone for an IgG4‐related respiratory disease visited our clinic. He developed brownish plaques with grayish‐white scales with pseudo‐carcinomatous hyperplasia and numerous brownish muriform cells developing in the dermis of his right hand, and multiple painful abscesses with pustules and papules and numerous hyphae within and around the histiocytes in the dermis of his right lower leg. Upon skin tissue culture and DNA sequencing, Exophiala xenobiotica and Scedosporium apiospermum were detected separately. He had severe cellular immunodeficiency indicated by low levels in the phytohemagglutinin (PHA)‐stimulated lymphocyte transformation test (LTT) and serum interferon‐gamma (IFN‐γ), although his humoral immunity was normal. The patient died of bacterial pneumonia, despite antifungal drug treatment for 2 months. IFN‐γ producing type 1 T helper (Th1) cells play an important role in the defense against fungal infections, however, corticosteroids specifically suppress Th1 cell responses and promote the induction of fungal infection. Measurement of PHA‐stimulated LTT and serum IFN‐γ may be useful in determining the severity and prognosis of deep‐seated dermatomycosis in patients undergoing corticosteroid treatment.
Scale dependence and mechanisms of grazing‐induced biodiversity changes depend on herbivore type in semiarid grasslands
Authors: Yan Hui , Li Yanlong , Li Wenhuai , Yang Yang , Zheng Shuxia , Li Frank Yonghong
Published: August 2024

Grasslands support a variety of herbivores that profoundly impact biodiversity and ecosystem functioning at local and regional scales. Understanding how different herbivores influence plant diversity across multiple scales is crucial for effective biodiversity conservation. However, most studies have focussed on the effects of grazing intensity on plant diversity, neglecting the impacts and associated mechanisms of different herbivores across scales.

Based on a 7‐year grazing experiment with 16 plots in Inner Mongolia's typical steppe, we compared the scale‐dependent effects of different herbivores (cattle, sheep and goats) on plant diversity at moderate grazing intensity. We used the species–area relationship (SAR) and linear mixed models to analyse the changes in species richness across multiple scales (1, 16, 32, 64, 128, 256, 512 and 1024 m2). To understand SAR slope changes, we examined four potential mechanisms: overall species richness, total number of individuals, species abundance distribution and species aggregation.

We found that grazing had scale effects on plant diversity, as indicated by a significant decrease in the SAR slope. This decrease in slope suggests that the negative impacts of grazing were more pronounced at larger scales. Additionally, the scale effects of different herbivores on plant diversity varied. Cattle had stronger positive impacts on diversity than sheep and goats at both small (1 m2) and large (1024 m2) scales. Conversely, sheep and goats had stronger negative effects on diversity than did the control at the large scale (1024 m2).

The decrease in the SAR slope was mainly caused by changes in overall species richness and species abundance distribution. This was primarily because cattle had a stronger impact on dominant species, whereas sheep and goats had a stronger impact on rare species.

Synthesis: Our results demonstrate that even at the same intensity, the grazing effects on species diversity vary with the study scale, herbivore type and their interaction. This finding has important implications for the conservation of grassland biodiversity given that grazing typically occurs at larger scales than in studies with quadrats and involves various herbivores with distinct effects on plant diversity.
Alginate composite films incorporated with Zn‐based inorganic antimicrobials for food packaging: Effects of morphology
Authors: Zhang Huiling , Wang Xinglong , Liu Jiyi , Mai Guangqing , Liu Shanshan , Cui Wei , Guan Rengui , Jiang Shasha , Han Yanyang , He Tao
Published: August 2024

Biopolymers‐based food packaging materials have drawn attention as potential candidates for substitution of petroleum‐based materials. In this study, composite alginate films were developed by incorporating Zn‐based antimicrobials to overcome the intrinsic disadvantages of alginates that hinder their wide applications. Antimicrobials with different morphologies (nanoplatelets, nanorods, and nanospheres) were employed to investigate the effects of antimicrobials’ morphology on antibacterial, thermal, mechanical, and barrier performance of composite alginate films. Meanwhile, morphological and structural characterizations were carried out to explore the interactions between antimicrobials and alginate matrix. Results indicated that films with nanospheres exhibited superior antibacterial property, while those with one‐dimensional nanorods possessed better mechanical and barrier performance. Besides, preliminary test on fresh‐cut potatoes and chicken breasts indicated that the composite films showed potential in extending shelf life of foods. By incorporating antimicrobials with three different morphologies, this study provides particular insights into improving properties of composite packaging materials.
Immobilization of l‐asparaginase on genipin cross‐linked chitosan beads shows better acrylamide diminution in cassava chips: Process optimization and characterization
Authors: Danait‐Nabar Saaylee , Singhal Rekha S.
Published: August 2024

Glutaraldehyde is the conventionally used cross‐linker for the activation and cross‐linking of support matrices used in enzyme immobilization. However, the toxic nature of glutaraldehyde makes it unsafe for food applications, propelling the need for nontoxic cross‐linkers. Genipin reacts with the primary and secondary amines generating a dark‐blue colored pigment and is an attractive alternative to glutaraldehyde as a cross‐linker for enzyme immobilization. Apart from its excellent cross‐linking properties, genipin possesses added advantages over glutaraldehyde such as proven health benefits, biocompatibility, and biodegradability. The present study explores the application of chitosan beads cross‐linked with the natural and nontoxic agent, genipin, for immobilizing l‐asparaginase, aimed at its subsequent use in mitigating acrylamide formation in food products. The immobilized l‐asparaginase exhibited improved functionalities such as stability, reusability, and reduction in acrylamide formation in deep‐fried cassava chips. One of the limitations observed during application in the food process was the mechanical fragility of the chitosan beads during speedy stirring. This can be overcome by increasing the concentration and time of contact of the coagulant bath during the formation of chitosan beads. The drying of the enzyme‐bound chitosan beads will also lead to shrinkage and prevent breakage during stirring. This study conclusively demonstrated the applicability of immobilizing l‐asparaginase on genipin cross‐linked chitosan beads in food‐related processes.
Allogeneic blood or marrow transplantation using haploidentical grandchildren donors and post‐transplant cyclophosphamide‐based graft‐versus‐host disease prophylaxis
Authors: Aljawai Yosra M. , Tsai Hua‐Ling , Varadhan Ravi , Jones Richard J. , Imus Philip H.
Published: August 2024

Background

High‐dose post‐transplant cyclophosphamide allows safe and effective use of allografts from haploidentical relatives (siblings, parents and children) in patients undergoing allogeneic blood or marrow transplant (alloBMT). More recently, second‐ and third‐degree relatives have also been shown to be safe allograft donors. An increasing number of older patients undergoing alloBMT have been receiving allografts from haploidentical donors. However, older patients are more likely to have older siblings and children, and older donor age is associated with worse outcomes.

Objective

In the current study, we report the safety and utility of grandchildren as haploidentical donors and compared with children as donors in patients undergoing alloBMT.

Methods

We compared characteristics and outcomes of alloBMT patients aged 55 years and older with children older than 30 years as donors (C group; n = 276) and those with grandchildren as donors (GC group; n = 40). Because many important baseline characteristics predict outcomes after alloBMT, we performed propensity score matched analysis based on recipient age, alloBMT year, disease, graft source and haematopoietic cell transplantation comorbidity index (HCT‐CI).

Results

The median age of recipients was 67 years (range 55–79) in the C group and 73 years (range 57–78) in the GC group. More than 70% of recipients in the GC group were older than 70 years, compared with 27% in the C group. The median donor age was 37 years (range 31–52) in the C group and 20 years (range 14–34) in the GC group. More patients in the GC group had HCT‐CI scores ≥3 than in the C group (32.5% vs. 23%, p = 0.27).

Two‐year overall survival did not differ between the two groups (GC 62% vs. C 60%, hazard ratio [HR] 0.96, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.53–1.75, p = 0.90) despite recipients of allografts from grandchildren being older. The 2‐year RFS was 55% in the C group compared with 50% in the GC group (HR 1.05, 95% CI 0.62–1.77, p = 0.85). Non‐relapse mortality subdistribution [SD] (SDHR 1.36, 95% 0.70–2.63, p = 0.36), relapse (SDHR 0.72, 95% CI 0.33–1.58, p = 0.42) or relapse‐free survival (HR 1.05, 95% CI 0.62–1.77, p = 0.85). Propensity score matching analysis showed no significant differences in 2‐year overall survival (GC 64% vs. C 53%; HR 0.77, 95% CI 0.42–1.42, p = 0.40), non‐relapse mortality (SDHR 1.26, 95% 0.66–2.41, p = 0.48), relapse (SDHR 0.57, 95% CI 0.21–1.52, p = 0.26) or relapse‐free survival (HR 0.94, 95% CI 0.57–1.54, p = 0.81).

Conclusion

Our results indicate that outcomes of alloBMT patients with grandchild donors are similar to those with child donors, despite recipients' older age and higher comorbidities in the GC group. Grandchildren should be considered when selecting a donor for older alloBMT recipients.
Prenatal origin of NUTM1 gene rearrangement in infant B‐cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
Authors: Bardini Michela , Fazio Grazia , Abascal Lilia Corral , Meyer Claus , Maglia Oscar , Sala Simona , Palamini Sonia , Rebellato Stefano , Marschalek Rolf , Rizzari Carmelo , Biondi Andrea , Cazzaniga Giovanni
Published: August 2024

Rearrangement of NUTM1 gene (NUTM1r) is one of the most frequent aberrations occurring in infants (younger than 1 year at diagnosis) with B‐cell precursor Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (BCP‐ALL). In this study we had the unique opportunity to analyze the umbilical cord blood (UCB) sample from one infant patient with NUTM1r BCP‐ALL. Herein we reported for the first time that NUTM1r infant ALL arise prenatally, as both the patient‐specific CUX1::NUTM1 fusion gene, as well as two IG/TR leukaemic markers were already present and detectable in the patient's UCB at birth. Our results clearly demonstrate the prenatal origin of NUTM1r infant BCP‐ALL.
Clinicogenetic characterization of cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis in Brazil
Authors: Fussiger Helena , Lima Pedro Lucas G. S. B. , Souza Paulo V. S. , Freua Fernando , Husny Antonette S. E. , Leão Emília K. E. A. , Braga‐Neto Pedro , Kok Fernando , Lynch David S. , Saute Jonas A. M. , Nóbrega Paulo R.
Published: August 2024

There are few cerebrotendineous xanthomatosis (CTX) case series and observational studies including a significant number of Latin American patients. We describe a multicenter Brazilian cohort of patients with CTX highlighting their clinical phenotype, recurrent variants and assessing possible genotype–phenotype correlations. We analyzed data from all patients with clinical and molecular or biochemical diagnosis of CTX regularly followed at six genetics reference centers in Brazil between March 2020 and August 2023. We evaluated 38 CTX patients from 26 families, originating from 4 different geographical regions in Brazil. Genetic analysis identified 13 variants in the CYP27A1 gene within our population, including 3 variants that had not been previously described. The most frequent initial symptom of CTX in Brazil was cataract (27%), followed by xanthomas (24%), chronic diarrhea (13.5%), and developmental delay (13.5%). We observed that the median age at loss of ambulation correlates with the age of onset of neurological symptoms, with an average interval of 10 years (interquartile range 6.9 to 11 years). This study represents the largest CTX case series ever reported in South America. We describe phenotypic characteristics and report three new pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants.
Validation of a novel AI‐based automated multimodal image registration of CBCT and intraoral scan aiding presurgical implant planning
Authors: Elgarba Bahaaeldeen M. , Fontenele Rocharles Cavalcante , Ali Saleem , Swaity Abdullah , Meeus Jan , Shujaat Sohaib , Jacobs Reinhilde
Published: August 2024

Objectives

The objective of this study is to assess accuracy, time‐efficiency and consistency of a novel artificial intelligence (AI)‐driven automated tool for cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) and intraoral scan (IOS) registration compared with manual and semi‐automated approaches.

Materials and Methods

A dataset of 31 intraoral scans (IOSs) and CBCT scans was used to validate automated IOS‐CBCT registration (AR) when compared with manual (MR) and semi‐automated registration (SR). CBCT scans were conducted by placing cotton rolls between the cheeks and teeth to facilitate gingival delineation. The time taken to perform multimodal registration was recorded in seconds. A qualitative analysis was carried out to assess the correspondence between hard and soft tissue anatomy on IOS and CBCT. In addition, a quantitative analysis was conducted by measuring median surface deviation (MSD) and root mean square (RMS) differences between registered IOSs.

Results

AR was the most time‐efficient, taking 51.4 ± 17.2 s, compared with MR (840 ± 168.9 s) and SR approaches (274.7 ± 100.7 s). Both AR and SR resulted in significantly higher qualitative scores, favoring perfect IOS‐CBCT registration, compared with MR (p = .001). Additionally, AR demonstrated significantly superior quantitative performance compared with SR, as indicated by low MSD (0.04 ± 0.07 mm) and RMS (0.19 ± 0.31 mm). In contrast, MR exhibited a significantly higher discrepancy compared with both AR (MSD = 0.13 ± 0.20 mm; RMS = 0.32 ± 0.14 mm) and SR (MSD = 0.11 ± 0.15 mm; RMS = 0.40 ± 0.30 mm).

Conclusions

The novel AI‐driven method provided an accurate, time‐efficient, and consistent multimodal IOS‐CBCT registration, encompassing both soft and hard tissues. This approach stands as a valuable alternative to manual and semi‐automated registration approaches in the presurgical implant planning workflow.
Impacts of Solidago canadensis and Erigeron canadensis co‐invasion on soil microbial communities
Authors: He Mengying , Liu Tingting , Liu Yaqi , Long Yiyi , Li Yue , Xie Qingsong , Zhang Zhen
Published: August 2024

Invasive plants disrupt the structure and function of ecosystems, causing a decline in their diversity. The coexistence of Solidago canadensis and Erigeron canadensis within shared habitats is a common phenomenon, and the frequent occurrence of co‐invasion has substantial implications for ecosystems. However, the effects of the co‐invasion of two plants on the soil ecosystem across varying degrees of invasion remain uninvestigated. Therefore, we investigated how the co‐invasion of S. canadensis and E. canadensis affects soil physiochemical properties and microorganisms across various degrees of invasion. The invaded regions exhibited significantly lower soil moisture content and pH values than those in the uninvaded areas (p < .05). Additionally, co‐invasion resulted in higher soil organic matter (OM), total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), and available phosphorus (AP) contents compared to single invasion by E. canadensis. Furthermore, the invaded regions exhibited a greater diversity of soil bacterial and fungal communities than the uninvaded regions. Under diverse invasion conditions, Actinobacteria and Ascomycota emerged as the predominant phyla of soil bacteria and fungi, respectively, leading to a shift in the soil microbial community structure. Moreover, homogenizing dispersal significantly influenced bacterial community succession, while ecological drift influenced the progression of fungal communities. Using structural equation modeling, this study established significant correlations between soil properties (pH, TN, and nitrate nitrogen) and bacterial interactions (diversity and community assembly) relative to microbial composition. This study revealed the influence of S. canadensis and E. canadensis co‐invasion on soil microbial communities, thereby contributing a theoretical framework delineating the impact of these two invasive plant species.
Militarized Development in Post‐war Sri Lanka: Consolidating Control
Authors: Kelegama Thiruni
Published: August 2024

Development is an important, yet contentious word, in the history of post‐colonial Sri Lanka. Typically, it is linked with economic progress and societal change, intricately woven into political processes and frequently utilized as a platform to promote Sinhala‐Buddhist ethnonationalist agendas. This article looks at post‐colonial Sri Lanka's ‘core development project’ — the Mahaweli Development Programme — and its post‐war revival with the military as a key actor. Through a detailed ethnographic study, it traces the way in which the military assumed extraordinary powers and became vital to the post‐colonial project of development and the militarized practices that enabled this. The author argues that this project of militarized development unfolds in a fourfold manner: by normalizing the presence of the military; by ensuring the military is seen as charitable; by blurring the boundaries between the military and civilians; and lastly by portraying the work carried out by the military as transformative. The article concludes by demonstrating that this militarized project of development is the latest iteration of the long‐standing post‐colonial project of Sinhala‐Buddhist state expansion, enabled through development.
Transitioning health care for adults with cerebral palsy
Authors: Hurvitz Edward , Wyeth Duncan , Peterson Mark
Published: August 2024

This commentary is on the original article by Manikandan et al. on pages 235–244 of this issue.
When less is more: The association between the expression of polymorphic CYPs and AFB1‐induced HCC
Authors: Mohamed Asmaa Ashraf , Armanious Monica , Bedair Rana W. , Amin Nada Sherif , El Tayebi Hend M.
Published: August 2024

Background

An individual’s genetic fingerprint is emerging as a pivotal predictor of numerous disease‐ and treatment‐related factors. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in drug‐metabolizing enzymes play key roles in an individual’s exposure to a malignancy‐associated risk, such as Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1)‐induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Aim

This study aimed at reviewing literature on the polymorphisms that exist in CYP enzymes and their possible link with susceptibility to AFB1‐induced HCC.

Materials & Methods

A set of keywords associated with the study subject of interest was used to search the Google Scholar and the PubMed database. The last ten years’ worth of research projects were included in the results filter. The research involved HCC patients and any connection between polymorphic forms of CYP enzymes and their susceptibility to AFB1‐induced HCC, including older but significant data.

Results

Variations in CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 were reported to impact the rate and magnitude of AFB1 bio‐activation, thus influencing an individual’s vulnerability to develop HCC. In HCC patients, the activity of CYP isoforms varies, where increased activity has been reported with CYP2C9, CYP2D6, and CYP2E1, while CYP1A2, CYP2C8, and CYP2C19 exhibit decreased activity. CYP2D6*10 frequency has been discovered to differ considerably in HCC patients. Rs2740574 (an upstream polymorphism in CYP3A4 as detected in CYP3A4*1B) and rs776746 (which affects CYP3A5 RNA splicing), both of which influence CYP3A expression, thus impacting the variability of AFB1‐epoxide adducts in HCC patients.

Discussion

CYP1A2 is the primary enzyme accountable for the formation of harmful AFBO globally. CYP3A4, CYP3A5, CYP3A7, CYP2B7, and CYP3A3 are also implicated in the bio‐activation of AFB1 to mutagenic metabolites. It is thought that CYP3A4 is the protein that interacts with AFB1 metabolism the most.

Conclusion

Polymorphic variants of CYP enzymes have a functional impact on the susceptibility to AFB1‐induced HCC. Outlining such variation and their implications may provide deeper insights into approaching HCC in a more personalized manner for guiding future risk‐assessment, diagnosis, and treatment.
The dynamics of the early career gender wage gap among university graduates: The case of Russia
Authors: Rozhkova Ksenia , Roshchin Sergey , Yemelina Natalya
Published: August 2024

This study provides new evidence of the gender wage gap among recent university graduates at different stages of their early career. Using a unique administrative dataset from Russia, we estimate the gender wage gap at means and across wage distribution for a cohort of 2018 university graduates during the first 4 years after graduation. We explore the contribution of educational and job factors to the explanation of the gap. Although a substantial gap of 14% is already present at labour market entry, it is two times smaller compared to the gap for the overall working population. Eighty five percent of the entry wage gap can be explained with differences in fields of study, work experience, and job characteristics. More than 4 years after graduation, the gender wage gap experiences a dramatic increase, reaching 26%. Only 28% of the resulting gap can be explained by the observed characteristics, including industrial and occupational segregation. The size of the gap varies drastically in different parts of the wage distribution, suggesting the existence of a strong glass ceiling effect from the very beginning of graduate careers. The rapidly expanding early career gender wage gap with a growing unexplained component suggests that education policies may have limited ability to promote gender equality in the labour market.
Role of blood–brain barrier dysfunction in the development of poststroke epilepsy
Authors: Meijer Wouter C. , Gorter Jan A.
Published: August 2024

Stroke is a major contributor to mortality and morbidity worldwide and the most common cause of epilepsy in the elderly in high income nations. In recent years, it has become increasingly evident that both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes induce dysfunction of the blood–brain barrier (BBB), and that this impairment can contribute to epileptogenesis. Nevertheless, studies directly comparing BBB dysfunction and poststroke epilepsy (PSE) are largely absent. Therefore, this review summarizes the role of BBB dysfunction in the development of PSE in animal models and clinical studies. There are multiple mechanisms whereby stroke induces BBB dysfunction, including increased transcytosis, tight junction dysfunction, spreading depolarizations, astrocyte and pericyte loss, reactive astrocytosis, angiogenesis, matrix metalloproteinase activation, neuroinflammation, adenosine triphosphate depletion, oxidative stress, and finally cell death. The degree to which these effects occur is dependent on the severity of the ischemia, whereby cell death is a more prominent mechanism of BBB disruption in regions of critical ischemia. BBB dysfunction can contribute to epileptogenesis by increasing the risk of hemorrhagic transformation, increasing stroke size and the amount of cerebral vasogenic edema, extravasation of excitatory compounds, and increasing neuroinflammation. Furthermore, albumin extravasation after BBB dysfunction contributes to epileptogenesis primarily via increased transforming growth factor β signaling. Finally, seizures themselves induce BBB dysfunction, thereby contributing to epileptogenesis in a cyclical manner. In repairing this BBB dysfunction, pericyte migration via platelet‐derived growth factor β signaling is indispensable and required for reconstruction of the BBB, whereby astrocytes also play a role. Although animal stroke models have their limitations, they provide valuable insights into the development of potential therapeutics designed to restore the BBB after stroke, with the ultimate goal of improving outcomes and minimizing the occurrence of PSE. In pursuit of this goal, rapamycin, statins, losartan, semaglutide, and metformin show promise, whereby modulation of pericyte migration could also be beneficial.
Senotherapy preserves resilience in aging
Authors: Mikawa Takumi , Yoshida Kazumichi , Kondoh Hiroshi
Published: August 2024

In aging societies, social and economic burdens of aging‐related diseases are increasing significantly. Senotherapy, which targets aging by eliminating senescent cells (senolytics) or removing sources of chronic inflammation (senostatics), are proposed as novel strategies for aging‐related diseases. Aged or frail people suffer a decline of tissue reserve capacity during aging. Resilience, which is much reduced in older people, is essential for recovery from diseases, stresses or crises. Impaired resilience is one of the reasons why aged people experience a gradual waning of their daily activity and an increase of multimorbidity. Calorie restriction results in senostatic alleviation of chronic inflammation, whereas senolytic drugs induce apoptosis of senescent cells, which exacerbate aging by excreting inflammatory factors. Thus, both senolytics and senostatics are expected to reduce sterile inflammation, originating from senescent cells. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 845–849.
Economic burden of frailty in older adults accessing community‐based aged care services in Australia
Authors: Toson Barbara , Edney Laura Catherine , Haji Ali Afzali Hossein , Visvanathan Renuka , Khadka Jyoti , Karnon Jonathan
Published: August 2024

Aim

To explore the utilization of permanent residential aged care (PRAC), healthcare costs, and mortality for frail compared with non‐frail individuals following their first assessment by an aged care assessment team (ACAT) for a government‐funded home care package.

Methods

The study involved people aged 65 years and over who completed their first ACAT assessment in 2013 and were followed for up to 36 months. Frail and non‐frail study participants were matched through caliper matching without replacement to adjust for potential unobserved confounders. Poisson regression estimated the impact of frailty on PRAC admission and mortality rates. Healthcare costs, encompassing hospital admissions, emergency department presentations, primary care consultations, and pharmaceutical use, from ACAT assessment to end of follow‐up, PRAC entry or death were summarized monthly by frailty status.

Results

13 315 non‐frail controls were matched with up to three frail individuals (52 678 total). Frail individuals experienced higher mortality (incidence rate ratio [IRR] = 1.76; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.70–1.83) and greater likelihood of entering PRAC (IRR = 1.73; 95% CI 1.67–1.79) compared with non‐frail individuals. Total healthcare costs over the 3‐year post‐assessment period for 39 363 frail individuals were $1 277 659 900, compared with expected costs of $885 322 522 had they not been frail. The primary contributor to the mean monthly excess cost per frail individual (mean = $457, SD = 3192) was hospital admissions ($345; 75%).

Conclusions

Frailty is associated with higher rates of mortality and of entering PRAC, and excess costs of frailty are substantial and sustained over time. These findings emphasize the potential economic value of providing home care for older people before they become frail. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 939–947.
Assessment of Natural Reference Materials for U‐Pb Geochronology of Grossular‐Andradite Garnet
Authors: Beno Carl J. , Lackey Jade Star , Schmitz Mark D. , Bowman John R. , Stearns Michael A. , Bartley John M. , Fernandez Diego P.
Published: August 2024

Garnet U‐Pb dating by laser ablation‐inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry requires the development of matrix‐matched reference materials of variable chemistry and U mass fraction for accurate analysis. Additional calibration of existing primary reference materials is also justified based on the relatively poor calibration of some of the widely available primary reference materials that are currently utilised by the geoscience community. We present a micro sampling workflow combined with a refined ID‐TIMS methodology for the generation of high precision (~ 0.1%) U‐Pb dates from domains within garnet single crystals. Using this workflow, we calibrated two new natural andradite reference materials, the Jumbo andradite (And99; 110.34 ± 0.03 (0.04) [0.13] Ma, n = 7, MSWD = 1.21) and the Tiptop andradite (And87; 209.57 ± 0.11 (0.13) [0.26] Ma, n = 6, MSWD = 1.39). We also present additional calibration of the widely utilised Willsboro‐Lewis andradite primary reference material (And90; 1024.7 ± 9.5 (9.6) [9.6] Ma (2s; overdispersed), n = 6). Wafers of the Jumbo and Tiptop andradite reference materials are available from the authors upon request.
Simultaneous Bulk‐Rock Elemental and Boron Isotope Ratio Measurement Using LA‐ICP‐MS on Silicate Micro‐Particulate Pellets
Authors: Xu Jie Dodo , Gerdes Axel , Schmidt Alexander , Hezel Dominik C. , Marschall Horst R.
Published: August 2024

We have established a method for the simultaneous measurement of element abundances and boron isotopic compositions of bulk‐rock silicate samples by laser ablation coupled to two different ICP‐MS instruments. Fifteen silicate reference materials were prepared as micro‐particulate pressed powder pellets (MP) for analysis. Approximately 1/5th of the ablated material was transported to a single‐collector ICP‐MS for elemental measurement, while 4/5ths were sent to a multi‐collector ICP‐MS for boron isotope ratio measurement. Compositions of different milling materials (agate, zirconium oxide, tungsten carbide, sintered corundum and silicon nitride) were measured for the evaluation of potential contamination during sample preparation. Determined element mass fractions are in agreement with literature values within ±20%. For boron isotope ratios, the matrix‐dependent background elevation across the m/z from 9.9 to 11, and the effect of ablation mass was quantified. Measured δ11B values of most reference materials are consistent with literature values within ±1‰. The intermediate measurement precision is ±0.3‰ for JB‐2 with 30 μg g−1 B and ±0.4‰ for JA‐2 with 21 μg g−1 B. A publically available, web‐based streamlit app was developed for data processing (https://zenodo.org/doi/10.5281/zenodo.11150471). This paves the way for combined, accurate and precise elemental and boron isotope ratio measurements of geological materials.
Two decades of research on “masstige” marketing: A systematic literature review and future research agenda
Authors: Chaurasia Muskan , Kumar Arvind , Panda Rajeev Kumar
Published: August 2024

In the 21st century, luxury marketing increasingly utilizes “masstige marketing” as a strategic approach. This approach combines luxury and mass brands and targets middle‐class consumers with an aim to make high‐end brands more accessible and affordable. However, despite a surge in research interest over the past two decades, the literature on masstige marketing remains scattered. Therefore, the present moment offers an appropriate time to consolidate the existing literature and lay the groundwork for future researchers. To achieve this aim, this paper endeavors to narrow the literature divide between luxury and affordability to establish a strong conceptual boundary using SPAR‐4 protocol and the TCCM approach. It thoroughly examines 75 papers published between 2003 and 2023 to identify critical research gaps. Furthermore, following manual coding and inductive analysis, the review outlines the theoretical perspective like masstige and bandwagon (Theory); identifies the contextual elements like B2B space and culture (Context); reveals the antecedents, gaps, and outcome variables, that is, CBBE and purchase intention (Characteristics); and suggest diverse approaches, that is, mixed and experimental methods (Methodology). The article also confirms the incorporation of themes, that is, value‐based and masstige‐evolution dimensions, by using Corbin and Strauss open, axial, and selective coding. Lastly, by employing in‐depth knowledge gap analysis, the review proposes future research directions as an efficient path for obtaining a holistic understanding of masstige marketing dynamics.
A telo‐centric approach to rethink grand challenges: Digital wellbeing as an example
Authors: Ren Shuang , Chowdhury Soumyadeb , Budhwar Pawan
Published: August 2024

How can grand challenge‐related issues be studied while comprehensively addressing contemporary needs? The literature on grand challenges has been growing, with an abundance of phenomena on which research is undertaken in a piecemeal fashion, without sufficiently offering integrated insights. In this debate essay, we challenge the proposal offered in Seelos, C., Mair, J. & Traeger, C. (2023) The future of grand challenges research: retiring a hopeful concept and endorsing research principles, International Journal of Management Reviews, 25(2), 251–269 on retiring the grand challenge concept. Instead, we advocate for revitalizing, not retiring, so that grand challenges research can be adapted with the ultimate human purpose of achieving wellbeing. We propose that the solution lies in taking a telo‐centric approach to navigate the intersections between various grand challenge issues, offering a novel lens to delve into the ultimate end of human endeavours and to ensure the continued relevance of the grant challenge concept. We exemplify the application of this telo‐centric approach through the prism of digital wellbeing, demonstrating how it can pave the way for innovative theoretical frameworks, rigorous empirical investigations and practical developments. We conclude by forwarding future directions for research, practice and policy.
Bioimpedance sensor array for monitoring chronic wounds: Validation of method feasibility
Authors: Antoszewska Magdalena , Spychalski Piotr , Kekonen Atte , Viik Jari , Barańska‐Rybak Wioletta
Published: August 2024

In an ageing society, the incidence of hard‐to‐heal wounds is rising. Chronic wound healing is a complex process, which requires specialised treatment. Clinical assessment of the wound is essential to establish care approaches but is usually based on visual evaluation and it remains challenging. Therefore, innovative quantitative methods for the assessment of chronic wounds are needed. We conducted a single‐centre observational study designed to assess the feasibility of a bioimpedance measurement method conducted with a multielectrode sensor array to monitor the wound healing process in patients with chronic wounds of venous, mixed venous–arterial and diabetic aetiology. In total, 104 measurements of bioimpedance were conducted in 18 ulcers during the study. Across all 7 patients analysed, the bioimpedance of the ulcers was consistently increasing as the wound surface was decreasing. The variables had significant (p < 0.001) and strong negative correlation (r = −0.86). We validated the feasibility of the bioimpedance measurement method for the monitoring of the wound healing process on the lower legs. It may be a promising quantitative method for monitoring the status of the wounds. However, long‐term measurements are needed to show the usability of the electrode dressing and bioimpedance measurement in the assessment of chronic wounds.
Healthcare professionals' experiences of required competencies in mentoring of interprofessional students in clinical practice: A systematic review of qualitative studies
Authors: Juntunen Jonna , Tuomikoski Anna‐Maria , Pramila‐Savukoski Sari , Kaarlela Veera , Keinänen Anna‐Leena , Kääriäinen Maria , Mikkonen Kristina
Published: August 2024

Aim

To synthesize evidence on healthcare professionals' experiences of competencies in mentoring undergraduate healthcare, social care and medical students during their interprofessional clinical practice.

Design

This review was conducted by the JBI methodology for systematic reviews of qualitative evidence.

Methods

Studies were included if they were based on the phenomenon of interest and used qualitative or mixed methods (qualitative share). The included studies were critically appraised using the standardized JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist. Qualitative research findings were extracted and synthesized using the meta‐aggregation approach.

Data Sources

Five databases (CINAHL, PubMed, Scopus, Medic and ProQuest) were systematically searched from each database's inception on 28 June 2023.

Results

A total of 5164 studies were initially screened, and 25 were identified for inclusion in this review. Three synthesized findings were identified: competencies related to (1) preparing for and developing interprofessional clinical practice, (2) supporting the learning process in interprofessional clinical practice and (3) creating an interprofessional mentor identity.

Conclusion

Although competent mentors are essential to implementing and developing interprofessional clinical practice, some mentors find interprofessional mentoring challenging. High‐quality interprofessional mentoring requires specific competence that differs from profession‐specific and individual mentoring.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

To ensure that interprofessional clinical practice is of high quality and strengthens students' professional and interprofessional growth, special attention should be given to mentors' interprofessional mentoring competence, and a range of opportunities and organizational structures should be provided for competence development.

Impact

This systematic review provides insights into the specific competencies required for interprofessional mentoring. These findings can support healthcare professionals, educators and policymakers in developing interprofessional clinical practice and mentoring competence.

Reporting Method

This review adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis (PRISMA) statement and ENTREQ reporting guidelines.

No patient or public contribution.
Diagnostic features of metastatic endometrioid carcinoma in a captive black‐tufted marmoset (Callithrix penicillata)
Authors: de Macêdo Isabel Luana , de Sousa Davi Emanuel Ribeiro , Mattioli Mariana , Borges Betânia Pereira , Mendes de Lima Eduardo Mauricio , de Castro Márcio Botelho
Published: August 2024

A captive marmoset developed metastatic endometrioid carcinoma (EnC), a rare uterine tumor in non‐human primates (NHPs). The neoplasm showed marked microscopical malignant and tubulopapillary aspects, immunopositivity for pan‐cytokeratin, CK7, estrogen receptor, and a high mitotic index (Ki‐67). These features may contribute to the diagnosis and therapeutics of EnC in NHPs.
Beyond simplistic narratives: Dynamic farmers, precarity and the politics of agribusiness expansion
Authors: Castañón Ballivián Enrique
Published: August 2024

Agribusiness expansion is usually framed around two competing narratives. On the one hand, advocates present it as a promising vehicle to modernise agriculture and integrate small farmers into global value chains. On the other hand, critics denounce it as a top‐down corporate assault to monopolise agriculture and dispossess peasants of land. Despite their differences, these contrasting narratives tend to share a reductionistic capital‐centric bias as they are mainly focused on the alleged benefits/dangers of the ‘arrival’ of agribusiness corporate capital. Although simplistic, these narratives have been politically effective in shaping the public debate and thus should be exposed to critical challenge. Drawing on my ethnographic research in eastern lowland Bolivia, I show how both narratives fail to capture the complexity of an actually existing agribusiness structure. My grounded analysis of the process of agrarian change focuses on the changing labour dynamics among campesinos who have striven to become prosperous soy producers. Faced with bleak prospects and structural insecurity, they have been articulating a political practice around the notion of precarity. I argue that this emerging politics from below deserves more attention as an important terrain of political struggles of classes of labour.