bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of corporate social responsibility on firm financial performance: does audit quality matter?
Authors: Dakhli Anissa
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relation between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and firm financial performance, and how audit quality moderates this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses panel dataset of 200 French firms listed during 2007–2018 period. The direct and moderating effects were tested by using multiple regression technique.

Findings

The authors find that CSR has a positive impact on firm financial performance proxy with return on assets (ROA), return on equity (ROE) and Tobin'sQ(TQ),suggesting that investment in social activities helps firms to achieve better financial results. The authors also find that the improvement effect of CSR on corporate financial performance is more pronounced for firms audited by Big 4 auditors.

Research limitations/implications

One limit of this study is the selection of independent variables. We are limited to one variable, namely CSR engagement. Further studies may consider other independent variables, such as the age of the company, the type of industry, the composition of the board of directors, etc., in order to provide an in-depth analysis of corporate financial performance drivers.

Practical implications

The findings have practical implications that may be useful to managers in their management of the firm. They encourage all board members to seriously weigh investing in developing strategies that promote the social behavior components in order to improve overall corporate performance.

Originality/value

The research adds to the current literature on CSR by revealing the impact of external auditor quality on the CSR–financial performance relationship. In addition, it investigates not only the overall CSR ratings but also each of CSR dimensions, namely environmental, social and governance.
How integration of information and communication technologies impact academic achievement? An empirical study on Sindh education foundation
Authors: Rind Amjad Ali , Asad Muhammad Mujtaba , Marri Shahmeer Ali , Sherwani Fahad , Rehman Fazal Ur
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the impact of Introduction of Smart Teaching and Learning (INSTAL) project on students' academic achievements in terms of students' science scores. Information and communication technologies (ICT)-based initiative was introduced in Sindh Education Foundation (SEF) schools at District Khairpur, Sindh, Pakistan. The aim of the study was to identify whether science test scores of students have been improved with the use of INSTAL facility at schools or remained the same at SEF-supported schools.

Design/methodology/approach

The quantitative research approach has been used in the current study, and within it a quasi-experimental research design was employed. The descriptive (mean, standard deviation) and inferential statistics (independent sample t-test and paired sample t-test) were computed to find the pre- and post-difference in science scores of students. Both primary and secondary data were used. The primary data were gathered through questionnaire from 48 science teachers. Whereas, secondary data of 382 students who used ICT-based facility under INSATL project for two academic years were taken from quality assessment test (QAT) scores conducted by third party in SEF-assisted schools in District Khairpur.

Findings

The findings of the study revealed that the students' science scores improved by 10% in one year and 23% in two years with the use of ICT-based facilities under INSTAL project. Also, it can be concluded from the results that ICT has a positive as well as statistically significant impact on students' science learning by using INSTAL facility in schools. Results of the study show that students' level of interest toward learning science has been enhanced by the use of ICT.

Practical implications

As the world is rapidly moving toward digitalization, the modes of teaching and learning have been changing. ICT plays a very significant role in the betterment of education. ICT helps to achieve socio-economic development of a country. However, Pakistan, being a developing country, has not that much resources, and ICT-based learning is not common in Pakistan. Therefore, it is very important to be aware people about the usage of technology in teaching and learning. The present study is an attempt to create such type of awareness. Moreover, the current study may be the first kind of study in the context of Pakistan which used TPACK as theoretical framework, and this study may contribute to the body of knowledge in the context of ICT.

Originality/value

Implementing ICT-based software for teaching and learning in rural context of Pakistan was a challenging task, but it has brought positive results in terms of student's achievement. This may be the first study that has been conducted in the context of adopted schools of SEF.
Corporate social responsibility and performances of firms operating in the tourism and hospitality industry
Authors: Goffi Gianluca , Masiero Lorenzo , Pencarelli Tonino
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to assess whether a relationship exists between corporate social responsibility (CSR) engagement and tour operators' performances.

Design/methodology/approach

A web survey was submitted to tour operators worldwide. A large sample of tour operators from different countries and continents participated in the survey. Principal component analysis was performed and a regression model was developed to analyze the relationship among variables.

Findings

Empirical evidence indicates that tour operators with high CSR engagement experienced a significantly higher short-term growth of profits and sales volume. Results also show that applying CSR principles, facilitating CSR values and fostering local economic linkages have a positive and significant influence on tour operators' performances.

Practical implications

Tour operators should cultivate a sustainable corporate culture requiring a commitment to sustainability of the company and its suppliers. The findings contradict with the tendency of “enclavisation” of package tourists within self-sufficient tourism complexes and suggest that locals are part of the tourism place-product.

Originality/value

This research reviews the literature on the relationship between CSR and firms' performances in tourism and hospitality. The relevance of this study is its focus on tour operators, a context with a fundamental importance for the sustainability of the tourism industry worldwide. Tour operators are the players that mostly reflect the variety of sectors within the tourism industry, combining travel services such as accommodation, food, transports, entertainment and excursions. This is the first time that a study on the relationship between CSR and firms' performances has been developed on tour operators worldwide. The paper is based on the data collected through a survey on 201 companies from 42 countries from all continents.
The mediating role of passenger satisfaction on the relationship between service quality and behavioral intentions of low-cost carriers
Authors: Lin Hsiu-Fen
Published: December 2021

Purpose

By extending the existing service quality dimensions and reflecting the low-cost carriers (LCCs) context, the purpose ot this study aims to develop the research model to examine whether passenger satisfaction mediates the relationship between service quality and behavioral intentions of LCCs across low- and high-experience passengers.

Design/methodology/approach

Data collected from 320 passengers (180 for low-experience passengers and 140 for high-experience passengers) to test the research model. The partial least square structural equation modeling approach was used to perform the path modeling and multi-group analysis.

Findings

The results confirm that passenger satisfaction mediates the relationship between four service quality constructs (tangible features, service reliability, quality of personnel and online ticketing service) and behavioral intentions (repurchase and recommendation intentions) for both low- and high-experience passengers. However, convenient flight schedule has a significant influence on passenger satisfaction only for low-experience passengers.

Practical implications

The results of multi-group analysis indicated that passenger satisfaction exerts stronger effect on recommendation intentions for low-experience passengers. LCCs managers' priority should be placed on providing satisfying service experiences to less experienced passengers. Improved passenger satisfaction through superior service quality motivates low-experience passengers to recommend LCCs, thus increasing the positive word-of-mouth promotion.

Originality/value

Theoretically, this study is first considering both low- and high-experience LCCs passenger perceptions to examine how passenger satisfaction mediates the relationship between service quality and post-purchase intentions. From the managerial perspective, the findings can provide useful management insights into developing multi-faceted strategies that allow LCCs firms to restore passenger confidence and retain their repurchase intentions.
Seasonal strategies differ between tropical and extratropical herbivores
Authors: Abraham Joel O. , Hempson Gareth P. , Faith J. Tyler , Staver A. Carla
Published: December 2021

Seasonal diet shifts and migration are key components of large herbivore population dynamics, but we lack a systematic understanding of how these behaviours are distributed on a macroecological scale.

The prevalence of seasonal strategies is likely related to herbivore body size and feeding guild, and may also be influenced by properties of the environment, such as soil nutrient availability and climate seasonality.

We evaluated the distribution of seasonal dietary shifts and migration across large‐bodied mammalian herbivores and determined how these behaviours related to diet, body size and environment.

We found that herbivore strategies were consistently correlated with their traits: seasonal diet shifts were most prevalent among mixed feeding herbivores and migration among grazers and larger herbivores. Seasonality also played a role, particularly for migration, which was more common at higher latitudes. Both dietary shifts and migration were more widespread among extratropical herbivores, which also exhibited more intermediate diets and body sizes.

Our findings suggest that strong seasonality in extratropical systems imposes pressure on herbivores, necessitating widespread behavioural responses to navigate seasonal resource bottlenecks. It follows that tropical and extratropical herbivores may have divergent responses to global change, with intensifying herbivore pressure in extratropical systems contrasting with diminishing herbivore pressure in tropical systems.
Protistan plankton communities in the Galápagos Archipelago respond to changes in deep water masses resulting from the 2015/16 El Niño
Authors: Neave Erika F. , Seim Harvey , Gifford Scott M. , Torano Olivia , Johnson Zackary I. , Páez‐Rosas Diego , Marchetti Adrian
Published: December 2021

The Galápagos Archipelago lies within the Eastern Equatorial Pacific Ocean at the convergence of major ocean currents that are subject to changes in circulation. The nutrient‐rich Equatorial Undercurrent upwells from the west onto the Galápagos platform, stimulating primary production, but this source of deep water weakens during El Niño events. Based on measurements from repeat cruises, the 2015/16 El Niño was associated with declines in phytoplankton biomass at most sites throughout the archipelago and reduced utilization of nitrate, particularly in large‐sized phytoplankton in the western region. Protistan assemblages were identified by sequencing the V4 region of the 18S rRNA gene. Dinoflagellates, chlorophytes and diatoms dominated most sites. Shifts in dinoflagellate communities were most apparent between the years; parasitic dinoflagellates, Syndiniales, were highly detected during the El Niño (2015) while the dinoflagellate genus, Gyrodinium, increased at many sites during the neutral period (2016). Variations in protistan communities were most strongly correlated with changes in subthermocline water density. These findings indicate that marine protistan communities in this region are regimented by deep water mass sources and thus could be profoundly affected by altered ocean circulation.
From Mother‐Patriot to Sister‐Lover: Changing Visions of Womanhood in Nineteenth‐Century Poland
Authors: Cornett Natalie
Published: December 2021

This article provides an analysis of different approaches to gender and the Polish women's question in the first half of the nineteenth century, particularly focusing on the Romantic era (roughly 1820–63), when the Polish question dominated political and cultural life. The ideal of an elite woman as a primarily home‐bound mother and educator of the next generation of Poles gained traction among nation‐builders during the brief Enlightenment reform period at the end of the eighteenth century. After the dissolution of the Polish‐Lithuanian Commonwealth (1569–1795), such ideas continued to remain in public circulation until the massive November Uprising of 1830–31, when some aristocratic women pushed the bounds of womanhood into a public, nationalised space by aiding and participating in the war effort. This article explores different ideas about gender and the nation using official statutes, women's life writing and Romantic literature. It will show changes in attitudes and actions before and after the November Uprising and pay particular attention to Narcyza Żmichowska and the Enthusiast women's movement of the 1840s which offered another way of being a woman than subordinate companionship to menfolk and their idea of the nation.
“Development and validation of a prediction model for bothersome stress urinary incontinence after prolapse surgery” by Oh et al.
Authors: van der Ploeg J. Marinus , Steyerberg Ewout W.
Published: December 2021

Linked article: This is a mini commentary on S Oh et al., pp. 1158–1164 in this issue. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/1471-0528.17036
The experience of physiological and psychosocial alcohol‐related harms across adolescence and its association with alcohol use disorder in early adulthood: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Yuen Wing See , Bruno Raimondo , Chan Gary C. K. , McCambridge Jim , Slade Tim , Clare Philip J. , Aiken Alexandra , Kypri Kypros , Hutchinson Delyse , McBride Nyanda , Boland Veronica , Upton Emily , Farrell Michael , Mattick Richard P. , Peacock Amy
Published: December 2021

Background

Different forms of alcohol‐related harm (e.g., hangovers, fighting) may confer differential risk of clinically relevant alcohol problems. We examine: (i) patterns of transition in experiencing alcohol‐related harms across adolescence; (ii) whether factors in early adolescence predict transition patterns; and (iii) whether transition patterns predict later alcohol use disorder (AUD) symptoms.

Methods

We used a longitudinal Australian cohort (n = 1828) to model latent class transition patterns of alcohol‐related harms across three timepoints (Mage = 13.9, 16.8, 18.8 years). Regression models assessed whether child, peer, and parent factors in early adolescence (Mage = 12.9) predicted harms transition patterns and whether these patterns predicted AUD symptoms in early adulthood (Mage = 19.8).

Results

Five transition patterns characterized most of the cohort (n ≈ 1609, 88.0%): (i) minimal harms (n ≈ 381, 20.8%); (ii) late physiological harms (n ≈ 702, 38.4%); (iii) early physiological harms (n ≈ 226, 12.4%); (iv) late all harms (n ≈ 131, 7.2%); and (v) gradual all harms (n ≈ 169, 9.2%). With late physiological harms as the reference, females had increased risk of experiencing early physiological harms (relative risk [RR]: 2.15; 99.5% CI: 1.19, 3.90). Late all harms (RR: 1.71; CI: 1.19, 2.47) and gradual all harms (RR: 1.84; CI: 1.37, 2.47) were each associated with increased odds of meeting criteria for AUD, even when patterns of alcohol consumption are considered.

Conclusions

Adolescents display heterogeneous transition patterns across physiological and psychosocial alcohol‐related harms. Females are at greater risk of experiencing early physiological harms. Experience of both physiological and psychosocial harms in late adolescence is an important and potentially modifiable precursor to clinically relevant alcohol problems in early adulthood.
A population‐wide perspective on the reach of substance use disorders: Parental exposure, diagnostic remission, and current disorders
Authors: Na Peter J. , Stefanovics Elina A. , Rhee Taeho Greg , Rosenheck Robert A.
Published: December 2021

Background and Objectives

Parental substance use disorder (SUD) increases the risk for childhood adversities. Lifetime and current SUDs are associated with functional impairment and psychiatric comorbidity. Research shows that these abate with diagnostic remission. However, a hierarchically ordered heuristic profile of adult subpopulations affected by SUDs has not been explored.

Methods

We used data from the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions Wave III (NESARC‐III; N = 36,309) to compare four subpopulations defined by the following hierarchy: (1) neither parental nor lifetime SUD (un‐affected group); (2) parental SUD but no personal SUD; (3) past but not current SUD (diagnostic remission); and (4) current SUD. We conducted bivariate comparisons and multivariable‐adjusted logistic regression to identify characteristics independently differentiating each group.

Results

Almost half of the US adult population (108.9 million) were at risk from SUDs. Relative to the unaffected group (56.1%), the parental‐exposure‐only group (13.9%) experienced diverse parental and childhood adversities and increased risk for psychiatric disorders. Compared to the parental‐exposure‐only group those in the remitted group (14.1%) were more likely to report behavioral problems and lifetime psychiatric multimorbidities. Those with current SUD (15.9%) had a poorer mental health‐related quality of life.

Discussion and Conclusions

This heuristic SUD hierarchy is associated with increasing adversities affecting almost half the US population, although only 15.9% meet the criteria for a current disorder.

Scientific Significance

Our findings provide a rigorous population‐based estimate of the staggering public health impact of SUDs in the United States and suggest that almost half of the US population is either directly or indirectly affected by SUDs.
Social and emotional learning in primary schools: A review of the current state of evidence
Authors: Wigelsworth Michael , Verity Lily , Mason Carla , Qualter Pamela , Humphrey Neil
Published: December 2021

Background

There is a plethora of reviews that summarize much of the evidence base in Social and Emotional Learning (SEL). However, there are criticisms around variability of quality and focus of those reviews, meaning there is little strategic overview of the current state of the field. Further, there are rising concerns as to systemic gaps in the evidence base itself. An overview of reviews provides an opportunity for a comprehensive classification and corresponding critique of evidence.

Aims

The study sought to examine a‐priori concerns regarding (1) variation in the rigour and quality of the meta‐analytic and systematic evidence base, (2) comparatively less conclusive evidence for whole school approaches when compared to class‐based curricula, and (3) an assumed universality of effect (i.e., lack of examination of any differential gains for sub‐groups).

Method and results

A systematic search of the systematic and meta‐analytic literature identified a total of 33 reviews examining SEL interventions. Papers were subject to a quality assessment in order to examine methodological rigour and were collated in line with the study’s objectives.

Conclusions

We maintain the prevailing consensus that SEL programmes have an important role in education. However, variation in evidence quality remains high and there appear ambiguities regarding what constitutes whole school approaches. The review also highlights a novel and concerning lack of data for differentiating any subgroup effects. The review concludes with recommended novel directions for future research, including adoption of more complex trial architecture in evaluation alongside a move towards a wider plurality in methodological approach.
Rove beetle diversity and coffee agroecosystems in the Colombian Andes
Authors: Méndez‐Rojas Diana M. , López‐García Margarita M. , García‐Cárdenas Delly R. , Cultid‐Medina Carlos A.
Published: December 2021

The intensification of coffee plantations has driven biodiversity loss worldwide, but little is known about how it affects the ecological structure of Andean rove beetle communities. The rove beetle diversity was estimated in a coffee‐intensification gradient located on the western slope of Central Andes (1300–1800 m elevation). Sixteen sampling sites in four land uses were selected: four native forest patches and twelve coffee production systems (four polygeneric shade coffee plantations, four monogeneric shade coffee plantations, and four sun‐grown coffee plantations). We used unbaited pitfall traps and leaf litter extraction and recorded environmental and vegetation variables in each land use. 101 staphylinid species were collected in 12 subfamilies and 45 genera (N = 522 individuals). We recorded for the first time the subfamily Leptotyphlinae in Colombia. Anotylus sp. 1 was the most abundant species with about 16% of the total individuals, while 60% of the remaining species showed <2 individuals. Native forest and polygeneric shade coffee plantations were more diverse than monogeneric shade and sun‐grown coffee plantations (for all
qD measures). Monogeneric shade coffee plantations were the least diverse in all studies. Species composition was different between forests and coffee plantations, and the sun‐grown coffee had a low number of exclusive species. The rove beetle diversity did not show a linear reduction with the intensification levels of the coffee plantation, and the sun‐grown coffee did not represent an absolutely hostile environment. We discuss the role of staphylinid as model group for comparative ecological studies in the tropical agricultural landscape.
Fatigue and expression of heat-shock protein genes in plaque psoriasis
Authors: Skoie Inger Marie , Bårdsen Kjetil , Nilsen Mari M. , Eidem Live E. , Grimstad Tore , Dalen Ingvild , Omdal Roald
Published: December 2021

Background

Chronic fatigue is common in patients with psoriasis, and heat-shock proteins (HSPs) have been suggested to influence fatigue.

Aim

To evaluate gene expression patterns of selected HSPs in patients with psoriasis with high vs. low fatigue.

Methods

Fatigue was assessed using the fatigue Visual Analogue Scale, and disease activity by the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index. Peripheral blood transcriptional profiling was performed using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) of HSP genes from 10 patients with high fatigue, and compared with 10 patients with low fatigue. HSPB11, HSPBAP1, HSPA14, HSPA9P1, HSP90B1 and HSP90AB1 contributed most to separation of the two groups in a principal components analysis. Four of these genes (HSPB11, HSPA14, HSP90B1 and HSP90AB1) were further investigated by real-time reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) in 20 patients with high- and 20 patients with low-fatigue scores.

Results

Both RNA-seq and RT-qPCR analyses revealed a tendency to higher expression levels of HSPB11 and lower expression of HSP90B1 in the high- vs. the low-fatigue group. Psoriasis disease activity had no influence on the expression levels of the studied HSP genes.

Conclusion

Overall, the results suggest that some HSPs are involved in generation of fatigue in psoriasis, supporting the hypothesis that downregulatory innate immune responses influence fatigue.
Persulfate‐containing consumer products in the US market
Authors: Dean Owen R. , Somers Kathryn E.
Published: December 2021

Background

Persulfate compounds are reactive oxidative agents increasingly recognized as contact allergens.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to identify common consumer products containing persulfate compounds in the US market.

Methods

Five publicly accessible online ingredient repositories and searches of two large online retailers were used to identify persulfate‐containing consumer products.

Results

We identified persulfates in 23 hair colouring products, 11 denture cleansers, 8 pool/hot‐tub products, 3 paints, and 3 cleaning products.

Conclusions

Clinicians assessing contact dermatitis should be aware of three primary categories of consumer products that contain persulfates: denture cleansers, hair colouring products, and nonchlorine hot‐tub and pool shock.
Incidence, persistence, and clinical relevance of iatrogenic atrial septal defects after percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion
Authors: Nelles Dominik , Vij Vivian , Al‐Kassou Baravan , Weber Marcel , Vogelhuber Johanna , Beiert Thomas , Nickenig Georg , Schrickel Jan Wilko , Sedaghat Alexander
Published: December 2021

Objective

To investigate the rate and clinical impact of a persisting iatrogenic atrial septal defect (iASD) after percutaneous left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO).

Background

Percutaneous LAAO is an alternative to oral anticoagulation (OAC) for the prevention of ischemic stroke and systemic embolism in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Data regarding incidence and persistence of iASD after LAAO procedures and its clinical relevance is scarce.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 144 patients that underwent LAAO at our center between 2009 and 2020 who had at least one follow‐up including transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). Baseline clinical, procedural data and echocardiographic characteristics in patients with and without evidence of an iASD were compared. We furthermore determined the rate of iASD persistence over time and evaluated outcomes of patients with and without spontaneous iASD closure.

Results

After a median of 92 days (IQR 75–108 days) after LAAO, 50 patients (50/144, 34.7%) showed evidence of an iASD. Patients with iASD had higher CHADS‐VASc‐scores (4.9±1.5 vs 4.2±1.2, p = 0.03), larger left atrial volumes (80.5±30.5 ml vs 67.1±19.7 ml, p = 0.01) and were more likely to have relevant mitral regurgitation (≥° II) (46.0% vs 12.3%, p = 0.001). LAAO procedures took longer (50.1±24.3 vs 41.1±17.8 min, p = 0.06) in patients with a persisting iASD. Furthermore, larger device sizes were implanted (24.3±3.4 mm vs 22.1±2.8 mm, p = 0.03). The presence of an iASD had no impact on RV dysfunction, thromboembolism or mortality. Spontaneous closure of an iASD was documented in 52.0% (26/50). Hereby, similar risk factors were identified for the persistence of an iASD in follow‐up.
Plasticity to ocean warming is influenced by transgenerational, reproductive, and developmental exposure in a coral reef fish
Authors: Bernal Moisés A. , Ravasi Timothy , Rodgers Giverny G. , Munday Philip L. , Donelson Jennifer M.
Published: December 2021

Global warming is expected to drive some ectothermic species beyond their thermal tolerance in upcoming decades. Phenotypic plasticity, via developmental or transgenerational acclimation, is a critical mechanism for compensation in the face of environmental change. Yet, it remains to be determined if the activation of beneficial phenotypes requires direct exposure throughout development, or if compensation can be obtained just through the experience of previous generations. In this study, we exposed three generations of a tropical damselfish to combinations of current‐day (Control) and projected future (+1.5°C) water temperatures. Acclimation was evaluated with phenotypic (oxygen consumption, hepatosomatic index, physical condition) and molecular (liver gene expression) measurements of third‐generation juveniles. Exposure of grandparents/parents to warm conditions improved the aerobic capacity of fish regardless of thermal conditions experienced afterwards, representing a true transgenerational effect. This coincided with patterns of gene expression related to inflammation and immunity seen in the third generation. Parental effects due to reproductive temperature significantly affected the physical condition and routine metabolic rate (oxygen consumption) of offspring, but had little impact on gene expression of the F3. Developmental temperature of juveniles, and whether they matched conditions during parental reproduction, had the largest influence on the liver transcriptional program. Using a combination of both phenotypic and molecular approaches, this study highlights how the conditions experienced by both previous and current generations can influence plasticity to global warming in upcoming decades.
Longitudinal impact of caregiver transition and family caregiving on psychiatric symptoms and psychosocial functioning among persons with schizophrenia in rural China
Authors: Peng Man‐Man , Ma Zhiying , Luo Wei , Hu Shi‐Hui , Yang Xin , Liu Bo , Lai‐Wan Chan Cecilia , Ran Mao‐Sheng
Published: December 2021

This study examines the 21‐year longitudinal impacts and predictive effects of family caregiver transition and the presence of family caregiving on the clinical status of persons with schizophrenia (PwSs) in a rural area of China. Using panel data derived from the Chengdu Mental Health Project (CMHP), 250 dyads of PwSs and their family caregivers were investigated in 1994 and 2015. The Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) and the Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) were utilized. The generalized linear model (GLM) approach was used. The results of this study showed that more severe symptoms in PwSs were found to be significantly predicted by older age and nonmarried status at baseline. Compared with “spousal caregiving in two waves,” the PANSS score was significantly higher in the “transition into sibling caregiving” group. A higher degree of psychosocial functioning was found to be significantly predicted by marital status, shorter duration of illness, and better mental status. Compared with “spousal caregiving in two waves,” the GAF score was significantly lower in the “transition into parental caregiving” group. The presence of family caregiving was not a significant predictor of the severity of symptoms or psychosocial functioning in the PwSs. In conclusion, this study shows the 21‐year predictive effects of family caregiver transition on the mental status of PwSs but not the presence of family caregiving. Psychosocial interventions and specific guidance should be provided to family caregivers to enhance their quality of caregiving and improve the prognosis of PwSs during long periods of home care.
Commercial fishery disturbance of the global ocean biological carbon sink
Authors: Cavan Emma L. , Hill Simeon L.
Published: December 2021

Plankton drive a major sink of carbon across the global oceans. Dead plankton, their faeces and the faeces of plankton feeders, form a huge rain of carbon sinking to the seabed and deep ocean, reducing atmospheric CO2 levels and thus helping to regulate the climate. Any change in plankton communities, ecosystems or habitats will perturb this carbon sink, potentially increasing atmospheric CO2. Fishing is a major cause of ocean ecosystem disturbance affecting all trophic levels including plankton, but its potential impact on the carbon sink is unknown. As both fisheries and the carbon sink depend on plankton, there is spatial overlap of these fundamental ecosystem services. Here, we provide the first global maps of this spatial overlap. Using an upper quartile analysis, we show that 21% of the total upper ocean carbon sink (export) and 39% of fishing effort globally are concentrated in zones of intensive overlap, representing 9% of the ocean surface area. This overlap is particularly evident in the Northeast Atlantic suggesting this region should be prioritized in terms of research and conservation measures to preserve the high levels of sinking carbon. Small pelagic fish dominate catches here and globally, and their exploitation could reduce important faecal pellet carbon sinks and cause trophic cascades affecting plankton communities. There is an urgent need to recognize that, alongside climate change, fishing might be a critical influence on the ability of the ocean to sequester atmospheric CO2. Improved understanding of this influence, and how it will change with the climate, will be important for realizing a sustainable balance of the twin needs for productive fisheries and strong carbon sinks.
My home is your home: Nest boxes for birds and mammals provide habitats for diverse insect communities
Authors: Jaworski Tomasz , Gryz Jakub , Krauze‐Gryz Dagny , Plewa Radosław , Bystrowski Cezary , Dobosz Roland , Horák Jakub
Published: December 2021

Cavity‐bearing trees are important nesting sites for many birds and mammals but have become rare due to anthropogenic modification of natural environments. Nest boxes are often used to compensate for the loss of these microhabitats.

Nest boxes contain amounts of organic debris exploited by a variety of organisms, mainly insects. We studied the largely unexplored group of nest‐dwelling insects by rearing them from plant detritus and animal remains accumulated in nest boxes of six bird and two mammal species, distributed in forest, farmland and urban environments in Poland.

We recorded 119 species representing eight insect orders. Nest substrates composed of plant detritus and animal remains supported similar insect species richness but differed significantly in terms of the insect community composition. Nests of Falco tinnunculus and Tyto alba and also Parus spp. and Strix aluco had very similar insect communities. The structural compositions of insect communities were also similar in nests of Parus spp. and Sturnus vulgaris, and of F. tinnunculus and S. aluco. Flies and earwigs were associated with nests of Parus spp. and Sciurus vulgaris and were more abundant in forests and urban environments, whereas wasps preferred S. aluco nests in forests.

Our study shows that nest boxes may serve as replacement habitats for a variety of nest‐associated insects. Therefore, we suggest a more flexible approach to nest boxes maintenance and management, for example, less frequent cleaning or providing more than one nest box in a given place to enhance conservation of nest‐associated insects.
Using polystyrene spheres to produce thin, porous interlayers in alumina laminates
Authors: Daniel Barros Marcelo , Hotza Dachamir , Jelitto Hans , Janßen Rolf
Published: December 2021

Porous alumina layers were produced by colloidal processing of alumina with the addition of 15, 30, and 45 vol% polystyrene spheres (PS) as pore formers. Alumina laminates were designed with dense layers alternated with porous interlayers using 45 vol% of PS spheres and sintered at 1350°C. The layers’ thickness ranged from 2 to 15 μm, with a random distribution of pores. The higher volume fraction of pores tends to decrease the alumina average grain size, but does not influence the final size of bulk and surface pores. The obtained values of hardness and Young's modulus for the porous interlayer are ∼30% of the values obtained for the dense layer. Vickers indentations suggested that crack propagation can be opposed by the porous interlayers. However, values of mechanical strength, fracture toughness (KIC), and work of fracture presented no relevant difference compared to a monolithic reference. R‐curves presented a slight increase and KIC a decrease due to crack propagation through the porous interlayers. Although no macrodeviations of the crack path were observed in the fractured surfaces, microdeviations were detected in the interlayer regions.
Effect of isomaltodextrin on dough rheology and bread quality
Authors: Fang Fang , Diatta Aminata , Simsek Senay , Torres‐Aguilar Pablo , Watanabe Hikaru , Higashiyama Takanobu , Campanella Osvaldo H. , Hamaker Bruce R.
Published: December 2021

Isomaltodextrin (IMD) is a novel highly branched α‐glucan ingredient that has potential applications in foods as a promising source of dietary fibre. In this study, we assessed the incorporation of IMD in baked products and its effect on dough rheology and physico‐textural characteristics of wheat breads. IMD was added to wheat flour to reach the US FDA level of ‘good’ source of fibre (10% IMD). Use of the straight‐dough method with IMD and regular dough mixing time (8 min) resulted in less elastic doughs and resulting breads displayed lower cohesiveness, springiness and chewiness compared to the control bread. A modified straight‐dough method, with longer mixing time (36 min) and adjusted water level (70%), and a sponge‐and‐dough method were used to allow gluten structure to more fully hydrate and develop. With IMD addition, the modified straight‐dough (36 min dough mixing time) and sponge‐and‐dough methods yielded enhanced dough elasticity compared to the original straight‐dough method. Breadmaking methods were identified (improved straight‐dough and sponge‐and‐dough) whereby IMD could be added at a 'good source' of fibre level with loaf appearance and texture similar to breads without IMD.
Construction, stability and photodynamic germicidal efficacy of curcumin nanoemulsion stabilised with Maillard conjugate of Wpi‐Rha
Authors: Zhuang Hong , Jiang Xinyu , Wu Sijia , Li Xueqian , Yan Haiyang
Published: December 2021

Curcumin has excellent antioxidant and antibacterial properties. The poor solubility and easy degradation limit its application. The present investigation was aimed to prepare curcumin nanoemulsions (Cur‐Ne), employing homogeneous and ultrasonication for the encapsulation of curcumin to overcome these problems. Cur‐Ne stabilised using whey protein isolate and rhamnose conjugate (Wpi‐Rha) was prepared by Maillard reaction. Furthermore, the processing (i.e. ionic strength, heat and freeze‐thaw) and storage stability of Cur‐Ne were evaluated. Moreover, the bactericidal capacity of Cur‐Ne combined with photodynamic therapy (PDT) technology was estimated. Cur‐Ne was prepared successfully with the droplet size of 185.97 ± 6.65 nm, polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.21 ± 0.01, zeta potential of −35.17 ± 0.15mV and entrapment efficiency of 97.0 ± 0.07%. Meanwhile, Cur‐Ne was stable at different storage and processing conditions. In addition, the DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging rates of Cur‐Ne were 84.86 ± 0.24% and 99.63 ± 0.48%, respectively. At the adding amount of 5 μL of Cur‐Ne, the Cur‐Ne could deactivate the Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus with the antibacterial rate of 99.05 ± 0.13% and 99.11 ± 0.18%, respectively. Curcumin loaded in nanoemulsion and combined with PDT provide new ideas for food storage and sterilisation.
Influence of bioprocessing treatments on phytochemical and functional properties, in vitro digestibility, protein secondary structure and morphological characteristics of Indian barnyard millet flour
Authors: Sharma Savita , Sharma Rajan , Singh Baljit
Published: December 2021

The objective of the present investigation was to assess the effects of different bioprocessing treatments on Indian barnyard millet (Echinochloa frumentacea) at preliminary optimised conditions including soaking (12 h at 25 °C), germination (48 h at 25 °C), lactic acid fermentation (20 h at 38 °C) and combination of aforesaid treatments. Anti‐nutritional factors were significantly (P < 0.05) lowered (5–70% reduction) during different treatments. Enhanced enzymatic activity further resulted in liberation of bound phytochemical compounds (phenolic acid and flavonoids) in addition to their synthesis, which enhanced the antioxidant potential by several folds. Variation in the hydrophobic‐hydrophilic characteristics of barnyard millet flour during given treatments modified the techno‐functionality in terms of hydration properties, surface characteristics, gelation and tristimulus colour parameters. In vitro starch and protein digestibility were significantly (P < 0.05) improved from 6.49 to 23.65 mg maltose released per 100 g and 72.21 to 80.48 g hydrolysed protein per 100 g, respectively. Morphological changes as revealed by scanning electron microscopy showed that bioprocessing of barnyard millet flour disrupted the starch‐protein matrix, cell wall constituents and starch‐fibre association which made the protein and starch molecules susceptible to in vitro digestibility conditions. Further, Pearson’s correlation matrix was employed to determine the relationship among different observations.
Nurses’ perceptions of nursing education transformation and its impact on care delivery in Singapore
Authors: Leong Felice Fangie , He Hong‐Gu , Premarani Kannusamy , Lim Siew Hoon
Published: December 2021

Aims

To explore nurses’ perceptions of the transformation in Singapore's nursing education and its impact on the delivery of nursing care.

Background

Nursing education in Singapore has sailed through a sea of changes, from the apprenticeship model of training in hospitals to institutions of higher learning. Limited primary studies have explored the evolution of nursing education, and none have explored its impact on the delivery of nursing care, based on nurses’ perceptions.

Methods

A descriptive qualitative design with purposive and snowball sampling was used to recruit 18 experienced nurses from local teaching institutions and healthcare clusters. Semistructured individual face‐to‐face interviews were conducted using an interview guide. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research reporting guideline was used to report the study.

Findings

Five themes emerged: ‘evolution of the nursing education approach’, ‘clinical learning environments’, ‘evaluation of changes in the nursing education approach’, ‘attitudes toward the provision of various levels of education’ and ‘influences of various competencies on the delivery of nursing care’.

Conclusion

Changes in teaching pedagogies, learning, assessment, curriculum structure, content and clinical learning environment were commonly reported, which provided insights into understanding nursing education transformation and its impact on nursing practice.

Implications for nursing education

The findings could better prepare nurses for the demanding needs of the contemporary healthcare landscape. Nurse educators and leaders should evaluate gaps in nursing education and implement strategies to improve students’ learning experiences and outcomes.

Implications for nursing policy

Policy‐makers can draw on our findings to revise the core competencies guidelines and improve future training by supporting the healthcare needs of society.
Respiratory syncytial virus in pediatric influenza‐like illness cases in Lombardy, Northern Italy, during seven consecutive winter seasons (from 2014–2015 to 2020–2021)
Authors: Pellegrinelli Laura , Galli Cristina , Bubba Laura , Seiti Arlinda , Anselmi Giovanni , Primache Valeria , Signorini Lucia , Delbue Serena , Binda Sandro , Pariani Elena
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the major cause of lower respiratory tract illness in young children and can also cause influenza‐like illness (ILI). Here we investigated the epidemiological features of RSV infection in pediatric ILI cases in Lombardy (a region in Northern Italy accounting nearly 10 million inhabitants) from 2014–2015 to 2020–2021 winter seasons.

Material and Methods

Data for this study were retrieved and statistically analyzed from the database of virological influenza surveillance of the regional reference laboratory for Lombardy within the Italian influenza surveillance network (InfluNet).

Results

RSV accounted for nearly 19% of pediatric ILI with a risk of infection nearly two‐fold greater than that of individuals ≥15 years. RSV positivity rate increased to 28% considering 0–5 years old children. Although in children ≤5 years the risk of infection from influenza viruses resulted nearly two‐fold higher than the risk of RSV infection, the age group 4–6 months and 7–12 months showed a five‐fold greater risk of infection from RSV than from influenza. Children ≤5 years of age with pre‐existing underlying health conditions had a nearly five‐fold greater risk of getting RSV infection than otherwise healthy 0–5 years old children. RSV was identified in ILI cases <15 years of age in all considered winter seasons except in the 2020–2021 season.

Discussion

Sentinel surveillance of ILI allowed us to identify groups at higher risk of RSV and influenza infection and to define the start, duration, timing, and intensity of the RSV and influenza community circulation. This surveillance approach can be implemented to assess the RSV circulation and impact in a real‐time manner.
Inhibition of TRIM32 by ibr‐7 treatment sensitizes pancreatic cancer cells to gemcitabine via mTOR/p70S6K pathway
Authors: Zhang Bo , Yan You‐you , Gu Yang‐qin , Teng Fei , Lin Xu , Zhou Xing‐lu , Che Jin‐xin , Dong Xiao‐wu , Zhou Li‐xin , Lin Neng‐ming
Published: December 2021

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most notorious diseases for being asymptomatic at early stage and high mortality rate thereafter. However, either chemotherapy or targeted therapy has rarely achieved success in recent clinical trials for pancreatic cancer. Novel therapeutic regimens or agents are urgently in need. Ibr‐7 is a novel derivative of ibrutinib, displaying superior antitumour activity in pancreatic cancer cells than ibrutinib. In vitro studies showed that ibr‐7 greatly inhibited the proliferation of BxPC‐3, SW1990, CFPAC‐1 and AsPC‐1 cells via the induction of mitochondrial‐mediated apoptosis and substantial suppression of mTOR/p70S6K pathway. Moreover, ibr‐7 was able to sensitize pancreatic cancer cells to gemcitabine through the efficient repression of TRIM32, which was positively correlated with the proliferation and invasiveness of pancreatic cancer cells. Additionally, knockdown of TRIM32 diminished mTOR/p70S6K activity in pancreatic cancer cells, indicating a positive feedback loop between TRIM32 and mTOR/p70S6K pathway. To conclude, this work preliminarily explored the role of TRIM32 in the malignant properties of pancreatic cancer cells and evaluated the possibility of targeting TRIM32 to enhance effectiveness of gemcitabine, thereby providing a novel therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer.
Effects of a short‐term cold exposure on circulating microRNAs and metabolic parameters in healthy adult subjects
Authors: Thibonnier Marc , Ghosh Sujoy , Blanchard Anne
Published: December 2021

This discovery study investigated in healthy subjects whether a short‐term cold exposure may alter circulating microRNAs and metabolic parameters and if co‐expression networks between these factors could be identified. This open randomized crossover (cold vs no cold exposure) study with blind end‐ point evaluation was conducted at 1 center with 10 healthy adult male volunteers. Wearing a cooling vest perfused at 14°C for 2 h reduced the local skin temperature without triggering shivering, increased norepinephrine and blood pressure while decreasing copeptin, C‐peptide and heart rate. Circulating microRNAs measured before and after wearing the cooling vest twice (4 time points) identified 196 mature microRNAs with excellent reproducibility over 72 h. Significant correlations of microRNA expression with copeptin, norepinephrine and C‐peptide were found. A co‐expression‐based microRNA‐microRNA network, as well as microRNA pairs displaying differential correlation as a function of temperature were also detected. This study demonstrates that circulating miRNAs are differentially expressed and coregulated upon cold exposure in humans, supporting their use as predictive and dynamic biomarkers of cardio‐metabolic disorders.