bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptive coordination strategies in humanitarian action: lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Tosi Laetitia , Marty Justine
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the optimization of coordination mechanisms in humanitarian action and focuses on the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

Conducted as a case study in collaboration with an international humanitarian organization, this research examines the components and associated coordination mechanisms of humanitarian action phases.

Findings

The analysis reveals the complexities of managing humanitarian crises, emphasizing the need for adaptive coordination strategies. Four key crisis response coordination mechanisms are explored – structural configuration, outcome standardization, process standardization and mutual adjustment. The study particularly assesses the emergency-development phase.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited to a single humanitarian organization and the COVID-19 context. Future research could explore additional case studies and broader contexts to enhance understanding of coordination mechanisms in humanitarian crises.

Practical implications

This research has practical implications for humanitarian organizations, policymakers and practitioners involved in crisis response. Enhancing coordination mechanisms and strategies can improve the efficacy of response efforts and facilitate navigation of the complexities of humanitarian crises.

Social implications

Effective coordination is crucial in mitigating the impact of humanitarian crises and promoting social resilience. By optimizing coordination mechanisms, this research contributes to building more adaptive societies in the face of global challenges.

Originality/value

This study innovatively applies the activities-resources-actors (ARA) model to the humanitarian context and concentrates on the response to COVID-19 of one international humanitarian organization. By adapting the ARA model to a real-world scenario, this research provides insights into optimizing coordination mechanisms in crisis management.
Understanding the influence of wine labeling attributes on consumer’s buying decision: a study in Turkey
Authors: Öztürk Betül , İşevcan Ertamay Selin
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study is to investigate, in the Turkish market, the elements on the front and back labels of wine bottles depicting the characteristics of the wines and their impact on the purchasing decisions of wine consumers in Turkey.

Design/methodology/approach

The questionnaire consisted of 24 items that used a five-point Likert scale. Data were collected through a self-administered online survey completed by 340 participants. Following exploratory factor analysis with principal component analysis and varimax rotation, the number of factors was reduced to six: front and back-label consumer experiences, front label design elements, intrinsic cue information, back-label contents, storage/flavor profile and health warnings. The final section of the questionnaire presented five digitally designed front and back labels and asked participants to indicate their preferences.

Findings

The results indicated that reading/checking the front and back labels on wine bottles was more important than all other factors. Turkish consumers generally prefer traditional front label designs, while female consumers are more open to contemporary designs compared to male consumers. Back-label designs with more information are generally more acceptable, although female consumers with good wine knowledge may not consider food pairing, storage, or service information.

Research limitations/implications

This research was designed only based on the elements of the front and back labels. The research should expand to include packaging characteristics such as bottle shape, bottle closure, price, and situational use.

Practical implications

The findings of this study offer valuable insights for Turkish wine producers aiming to enhance their marketing strategies by customizing their wine label designs to better align with the market.

Originality/value

This study is the preliminary study to investigate Turkish consumers purchasing decisions based on the front- and back-label characteristics by using both verbal and visual elements.
Navigating the fourth industrial revolution: a systematic review of technology adoption model trends
Authors: Kruger Sean , Steyn Adriana A.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Several disciplines and thousands of studies have used, developed and supported technology adoption theories to guide industry and support innovation. However, within the past decade, a paradigm shift referred to as the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) has resulted in new considerations affecting how models are used to guide emerging technology integration into business strategy. The purpose of this study is to determine which technology adoption model, or models are primarily used when assessing smart technologies in the 4IR construct. It is not to investigate the rigour of existing models or their theoretical underpinnings, as this has been proven.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve this, a systematic literature review based on the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis methodology is used. From 3,007 publications, 125 papers between 2015 and 2021 were deemed relevant for thematic analysis.

Findings

From the literature, five perspectives were extracted. As with other information and communication technology studies, the analysis confirms that the technology acceptance model remains the predominantly used model. However, 105 of the 125 models extended their theoretical underpinnings, indicating a lack of maturity. Furthermore, the countries of study and authors’ expertise are predominantly clustered in the European and Asian regions, despite the study noting expansion into 16 different subject areas, far beyond the smaller manufacturing scope of Industry 4.0.

Originality/value

This study contributes theoretically by providing a baseline to develop a generalisable 4IR model grounded on existing acceptance trends identified. Practically, these insights demonstrate the current trends for strategists and policymakers to understand technology adoption within the 4IR to direct efforts that support innovation development, an increasingly crucial factor for survival in the digital age. Future research can investigate the additional constructs that were impactful while considering the level of research they were applied to.
Perceptions of customer-facing digital technology: a qualitative interview study from grocery retail
Authors: Grøndahl Larsen Anna , Følstad Asbjørn
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to provide in-depth knowledge on customer-facing technology and customer experience in the grocery retail sector, including how the value-added potential of customer-facing technologies may be enhanced.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis is based on 30 in-depth interviews with “early adopters” of customer-facing digital retail technologies in the Norwegian grocery sector. Theoretically, the study draws on notions of the customer journey and customer experience.

Findings

The study contributes to deepening insights concerning how digital retail technology is used and may be geared to further increase value for customers, specifically how retailers may use data on customers and products to personalize digital retail technology offerings and gain a competitive advantage. The findings underline how customer value is context-dependent and show that while grocery retail customers primarily emphasize utilitarian benefits related to customer-facing technologies, hedonic benefits are valuable biproducts. Moreover, the study showcases how personalization is key in addressing customers’ needs and wants, and may serve to increase the overall value of customer-facing technologies for customers and retailers.

Originality/value

The study’s sector-specific focus on technology in use contributes to enhance knowledge on how digital retail technologies can be leveraged to the benefit of customers and retailers, including customers’ sector-specific needs and wants.
How indigenous spiritual beliefs shape health-related consumption rituals: shipibo health rituals to tackle covid-19
Authors: Cateriano-Arévalo Erik , Gordon Ross , Soria Gonzáles (Pene Beso) Jorge Javier , Soria Gonzáles (Xawan Nita) Richard Manuel , Paiva Pinedo (Sanken Bea) Néstor , Pesantes Maria Amalia , Schuster Lisa
Published: August 2024

Purpose

In marketing and consumer research, the study of Indigenous ideas and rituals remains limited. The authors present an Indigenous-informed study of consumption rituals co-produced with members of the Shipibo–Konibo Indigenous group of the Peruvian Amazon. Specifically, the authors worked with the Comando Matico, a group of Shipibos from Pucallpa, Peru. This study aims to investigate how Indigenous spiritual beliefs shape health-related consumption rituals by focusing on the experience of the Shipibos and their response to COVID-19.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing upon the principles of Indigenous research, the authors co-produced this study with the Comando Matico. The authors collaboratively discussed the research project’s design, analysed and interpreted data and co-authored this study with members of the Comando Matico. This study uses discourse analyses. The corpus of discourse is speech and text produced by the Comando Matico in webinars and online interviews during the COVID-19 pandemic. The full and active participation of the Comando Matico informed the discourse analysis by ensuring Indigenous knowledge, and worldviews were infused throughout the process.

Findings

The authors foreground how Indigenous spiritual beliefs act as a force that imbues the knowledge and practice of health, wellbeing and illness, and this process shapes the performance of rituals. In Indigenous contexts, multiple spirits coexist with consumers, who adhere to specific rituals to respond to and relate to these spirits. Indigenous consumption rituals involve the participation of non-human beings (called rao, ibo, yoshin and chaikoni by the Shipibos) and this aspect challenges the traditional notion of rituals and ritual elements in marketing.

Originality/value

The authors demonstrate how Indigenous spiritual beliefs shape consumption rituals in the context of health and draw attention to how the acknowledgement of alternative ontologies and epistemologies can help address dominant hierarchies of knowledge in marketing theory.
Data analytics use in financial due diligence: the influence of accounting and commercial logic
Authors: Kastrup Tim , Grant Michael , Nilsson Fredrik
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to contribute to a better, empirically grounded and theoretically informed understanding of data analytics (DA) use and nonuse in accounting for decision-making. To that end, it explores the links between accounting logic, commercial logic and DA use in financial due diligence (FDD).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reports the findings of a case study of DA use in the FDD practice of a Big Four accounting firm in Sweden (Pseudonym: DealCo). The primary data comprises semistructured interviews, observations and additional meetings. Institutional logics is mobilized as method theory.

Findings

First, accounting logic and commercial logic both drove and hindered DA use in DealCo’s FDD practice in different ways. Second, conflicting prescriptions for DA use existed mostly within commercial logic rather than between accounting logic and commercial logic. Third, accounting logic and commercial logic, as perceptual and conceptual filters, seemed to shape DealCo’s advisors’ understanding of DA and give rise to an efficiency-centric DA logic. This logic, in turn, as a high-level model of how to use DA in the context of FDD, governed DA use broadly.

Originality/value

The paper draws attention to direct and indirect links between accounting logic and commercial logic, on the one hand, and DA conceptions and use, on the other hand. It, thereby, advances prior theorization of DA use in accounting for decision-making.
Failure mode maps for glass fibre-reinforced polymer/polyvinyl chloride foam-cored sandwich structures
Authors: Kosgey Edwin Cheruiyot , Kanny Krishnan , Mwangi Festus Maina
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to understand how the facesheet size, orientation and core size influence the analytical failure mechanism mode of glass fibre reinforced polymer (GFRP)/polyvinyl chloride (PVC) sandwich structures subjected to three-point bending. The purpose of this study was to develop failure-mode map of GFRP/PVC sandwich structures. Sandwich structures with different facesheet and core thicknesses were used to develop the failure map.

Design/methodology/approach

The sandwich structure and facesheet were fabricated using a vacuum-assisted resin infusion method with core sizes of 10, 15 and 20 mm and facesheet thicknesses of 1.5 and 3 mm and were arranged in three different orientations: angle-ply, cross-ply and quasi-isotropic. The key failure modes that occur in sandwich structures were used to predict possible failures in the developed material. Analytical equations were used in MATLAB for each observed failure mode. The probable failure modes, namely, face yielding, core shear and indentation equations, were used to construct the failure maps and were compared with the experimental data.

Findings

The boundary of the two failure modes shifts with changes in the facesheet and core thicknesses. The theoretical stiffness of sandwich panels was higher than the experimental stiffness. Based on strength-to-weight ratio, specimens E10-4, A15-8 and E20-8 exhibited the best optimum values owing to their shorter distance to the boundary lines.

Originality/value

In this study, a failure map was used to predict the possible failure modes for different GFRP facesheet orientations and thicknesses and PVC core thickness sandwich structures. Little is known about the prediction of the failure modes of unidirectional GFRP arranged in different orientations and thicknesses and PVC core thicknesses for sandwich structures. Few studies have used failure mode maps with unidirectional GFRP oriented in angle-ply, cross-ply and quasi-isotropic directions as a facesheet for sandwich structures compared to bidirectional mats. This study can serve as a guide for the correct selection of materials during the design process of sandwich structures.
Virus ecology and 7‐year temporal dynamics across a permafrost thaw gradient
Authors: Sun Christine L. , Pratama Akbar Adjie , Gazitúa Maria Consuelo , Cronin Dylan , McGivern Bridget B. , Wainaina James M. , Vik Dean R. , Zayed Ahmed A. , Bolduc Benjamin ,   IsoGenie Project Field Teams 2010‐2017, the IsoGenie and EMERGE Projects Coordinators, Wrighton Kelly C. , Rich Virginia I. , Sullivan Matthew B.
Published: August 2024

Soil microorganisms are pivotal in the global carbon cycle, but the viruses that affect them and their impact on ecosystems are less understood. In this study, we explored the diversity, dynamics, and ecology of soil viruses through 379 metagenomes collected annually from 2010 to 2017. These samples spanned the seasonally thawed active layer of a permafrost thaw gradient, which included palsa, bog, and fen habitats. We identified 5051 virus operational taxonomic units (vOTUs), doubling the known viruses for this site. These vOTUs were largely ephemeral within habitats, suggesting a turnover at the vOTU level from year to year. While the diversity varied by thaw stage and depth‐related patterns were specific to each habitat, the virus communities did not significantly change over time. The abundance ratios of virus to host at the phylum level did not show consistent trends across the thaw gradient, depth, or time. To assess potential ecosystem impacts, we predicted hosts in silico and found viruses linked to microbial lineages involved in the carbon cycle, such as methanotrophy and methanogenesis. This included the identification of viruses of Candidatus Methanoflorens, a significant global methane contributor. We also detected a variety of potential auxiliary metabolic genes, including 24 carbon‐degrading glycoside hydrolases, six of which are uniquely terrestrial. In conclusion, these long‐term observations enhance our understanding of soil viruses in the context of climate‐relevant processes and provide opportunities to explore their role in terrestrial carbon cycling.
Utilising free comments and textual analysis to identify knowledge and acceptance of functional dairy products: A Brazilian perspective
Authors: Freire Carlos Eduardo Cardoso de Aguiar , Patinho Iliani , Gonçalves Samuel Ferreira , Cançado Matheus Prudente , Saldaña Erick , de Alencar Severino Matias , Cesar Aline Silva Mello
Published: August 2024

Regular consumption of functional dairy products offers numerous health benefits, such as anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant effects. This study assessed Brazilian consumers' knowledge and barriers to their consumption using the free comment (FC) method and textual analysis. FC identified 462 descriptors from 332 volunteers, including ‘cheese’, ‘dairy’, ‘health’, ‘probiotic’, ‘nutrients’ and ‘benefits’. Textual analysis organised the data, revealing consumers' knowledge and preferences. The analysis highlighted the need for strategies to address barriers to functional dairy product consumption, focusing on sensory preferences and promoting these products among consumers who currently resist them.
Limiting factors in the operation of photosystems I and II in cyanobacteria
Authors: Grettenberger Christen L. , Abou‐Shanab Reda , Hamilton Trinity L.
Published: August 2024

Cyanobacteria are important targets for biotechnological applications due to their ability to grow in a wide variety of environments, rapid growth rates, and tractable genetic systems. They and their bioproducts can be used as bioplastics, biofertilizers, and in carbon capture and produce important secondary metabolites that can be used as pharmaceuticals. However, the photosynthetic process in cyanobacteria can be limited by a wide variety of environmental factors such as light intensity and wavelength, exposure to UV light, nutrient limitation, temperature, and salinity. Carefully considering these limitations, modifying the environment, and/or selecting cyanobacterial species will allow cyanobacteria to be used in biotechnological applications.
CBX4/miR‐190 regulatory loop inhibits lung cancer metastasis
Authors: Wang Jian , Zhu Xiang , Yu Yue , Ge Jie , Chen Wei , Xu Wengui , Zhou Wen
Published: August 2024

Background

Lung cancer is one of the major threats to human life worldwide. MiR‐190 has been found to perform essential roles in multiple cancer progression; however, there have been no studies focused on its function and underlying regulatory mechanism in lung cancer.

Method

The miR‐190 expression was detected by real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR). The cell functional experiments, including cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8), colony formation and transwell assay were conducted in vitro, as well as animal experiments performed in vivo. The regulation and potential binding sites of CBX4 on miR‐190 were predicted by TCGA data set and JASPAR website and verified by ChIP assay and dual‐luciferase reporter assay. The prospects binding site of miR‐190‐3p on CBX4 3′UTR region was predicted by StarBase and verified by dual‐luciferase reporter assay.

Results

MiR‐190 was decreased in lung cancer cells. The overexpression of miR‐190 had no effects on cell proliferation, but significantly inhibited cancer metastasis both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, miR‐190 expression could be transcriptionally inhibited by CBX4, and CBX4 was the direct target of miR‐190‐3p.

Conclusion

MiR‐190 served as a cancer metastasis inhibitor in lung cancer and formed a regulatory loop with CBX4. These findings provided emerging insights into therapeutic targets and strategies for metastatic lung cancer.
Comparative effectiveness of extended‐release naltrexone and sublingual buprenorphine for treatment of opioid use disorder among Medicaid patients
Authors: Ross Rachael K. , Nunes Edward V. , Olfson Mark , Shulman Matisyahu , Krawczyk Noa , Stuart Elizabeth A. , Rudolph Kara E.
Published: August 2024

Background and aims

Extended‐release naltrexone (XR‐NTX) and sublingual buprenorphine (SL‐BUP) are both approved for opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment in any medical setting. We aimed to compare the real‐world effectiveness of XR‐NTX and SL‐BUP.

Design and setting

This was an observational active comparator, new user cohort study of Medicaid claims records for patients in New Jersey and California, USA, 2016–19.

Participants/cases

The participants were adult Medicaid patients aged 18–64 years who initiated XR‐NTX or SL‐BUP for maintenance treatment of OUD and did not use medications for OUD in the 90 days before initiation. Our cohort included 1755 XR‐NTX and 9886 SL‐BUP patients.

Measurements

We examined two outcomes up to 180 days after medication initiation: (1) composite of medication discontinuation and death and (2) composite of overdose and death.

Findings

In adjusted analyses, treatment with XR‐NTX was more likely to result in discontinuation or death by the end of follow‐up than treatment with SL‐BUP: cumulative risk 75.9% [95% confidence interval (CI) = 73.9%, 77.9%] versus 62.2% (95% CI = 61.2%, 63.2%), respectively (risk difference = 13.7 percentage points, 95% CI = 11.4, 16.0). There was minimal difference in the cumulative risk of overdose or death by the end of follow‐up: XR‐NTX 3.9% (95% CI = 3.0%, 4.8%) versus SL‐BUP 3.3% (95% CI = 2.9%, 3.7%); risk difference = 0.5 percentage points, 95% CI = –0.4, 1.5. Results were consistent across sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions

Medicaid patients in California and New Jersey, USA, receiving treatment for opioid use disorder stayed in treatment longer on sublingual buprenorphine than on extended‐release naltrexone, but the risk of overdose was similar. Most patients in this study discontinued medication within 6 months, regardless of which medication was initiated.
Two‐year post‐treatment outcomes following peanut oral immunotherapy in the Probiotic and Peanut Oral Immunotherapy‐003 Long‐Term (PPOIT‐003LT) study
Authors: Loke Paxton , Wang Xiaofang , Lloyd Melanie , Ashley Sarah E. , Lozinsky Adriana C. , Gold Michael , O'Sullivan Michael D. , Quinn Patrick , Robinson Marnie , Galvin Audrey Dunn , Orsini Francesca ,   PPOIT‐003 study group, Tang Mimi L. K.
Published: August 2024

Background

Few studies have examined long‐term outcomes following oral immunotherapy (OIT); none have examined long‐term risks and benefits associated with distinct clinical outcomes (desensitization, remission).

Methods

Participants completing the probiotic and peanut oral immunotherapy (PPOIT) ‐003 randomized trial were enrolled in a follow‐on study, PPOIT‐003LT. Peanut ingestion, reactions, and health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) were monitored prospectively. Outcomes at 1‐year and 2‐years post‐treatment were examined by treatment group and by post‐OIT clinical outcome (remission, desensitization without remission [DWR], allergic).

Results

86% (151/176) of eligible children enrolled. Post‐treatment peanut ingestion at 2‐years post‐treatment were similar for PPOIT (86.7%) and OIT (78.7%) groups, both higher than placebo (10.3%). Reactions reduced over time for all treatment and clinical outcome groups (PPOIT 31.7% to 23.3%, OIT 37.7% to 19.7%, placebo 13.8% to 6.9%; remission 27.5% to 15.9%; DWR 57.9% to 36.8%; allergic 11.6% to 7%). At 2‐years post‐treatment, similar proportions of remission and allergic participants reported reactions (RD 0.09 (95%CI −0.03, 0.20), p = .127), whereas more DWR participants reported reactions than remission (remission vs DWR: RD −0.21 (95%CI −0.39; −0.03), p = .02) and allergic (DWR vs allergic: RD 0.30 (95%CI 0.13, 0.47), p = .001) participants. At 2‐years post‐treatment, 0% remission versus 5.3% DWR versus 2.3% allergic participants reported adrenaline injector usage. Remission participants had significantly greater HRQOL improvement (adjusted for baseline) compared with both DWR (MD −0.54 (95%CI −0.99, −0.10), p = .017) and allergic (MD −0.82 (95%CI −1.25, −0.38), p < .001).

Conclusion

By 2‐years post‐treatment, remission participants reported fewer reactions, less severe reactions and greater HRQOL improvement compared with DWR and allergic participants, indicating that remission is the patient‐preferred treatment outcome over desensitization or remaining allergic.
Measurement of the distal bile duct density on computed tomography can differentiate choledocholithiasis from a control population
Authors: Bull Nicholas , Goonawardena Janindu , Hua Lina , Lim Dee , Cheung King Tung , Ramachandran Vivek , Fox Adrian , Hassen Sayed
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Hounsfield unit density of biliary fluid on CT may be a useful clinical marker that has not been described in the literature. This method has been used to differentiate pyonephrosis from hydronephrosis in obstructed collecting systems of the kidney. We aimed to create a user‐friendly technique to measure the density of the distal bile duct using CT. The bile duct density of cases with proven choledocholithiasis at ERCP were compared with those of a control group (no biliary pathology).

Methods

A total of 106 patients with proven choledocholithiasis at ERCP and 50 control patients were analysed. The distal bile duct density was calculated using the 4‐point and max ellipse methods. Two blinded, independent investigators calculated the bile duct density.

Results

The HU is significantly higher in the presence of choledocholithiasis (P < 0.0001). Using the Youden index a cut‐off value of 28.6 HU for the 4‐point technique is useful to predict the presence of choledocholithiasis (Sensitivity 58%, Specificity 86%).

Conclusion

Calculation of the distal bile duct density can differentiate choledocholithiasis from a control population. It may be useful alone or as a component of a scoring system to select patients more effectively for intervention. The improved use of CT may also decrease use of MRCP and reduce time to ERCP, which have potential cost benefits.
An enhanced and rapid method for von Willebrand factor multimer analysis for mechanical circulatory device testing
Authors: Smith Amanda G. , McNamee Antony P. , Chan Chris H. H. , Headrick John , Simmonds Michael J.
Published: August 2024

Background

Von Willebrand factor (VWF) is a critical glycoprotein in hemostasis and is an important factor in diagnosing bleeding disorders. Albeit the analysis of VWF is often compromised by inconsistent methodologies and challenges quantifying multimeric size. Current VWF multimer analysis methods are costly, time‐consuming, and often inconsistent; thus, demanding skilled professionals. This study aimed to streamline and optimize the VWF multimer analysis technique, making it more efficient and reproducible, particularly for identifying or predicting mechanical circulatory support (MCS) induced bleeding disorders.

Methods

Blood samples from healthy volunteers were exposed to high shear forces via a Medtronic HeartWare ventricular assist device. VWF multimers were analyzed using vertical‐gel agarose electrophoresis and Western blotting. Differences in VWF distribution were determined using densitometry, and two methods of densitometric analysis were compared: proprietary software against open‐source software.

Results

Using the developed method: (i) protocol duration was accelerated from three days (in classical methods) to ~ eight hours; (ii) the resolution of the high molecular weight (HMW) VWF multimers were substantially improved; and (iii) densitometric analysis tools were validated. Additionally, the densitometry analysis using two software types showed a strong correlation between results, with the proprietary software reporting slightly higher HMW VWF percentages.

Conclusion

This methodology is recommended for affordable, accurate, and reproducible VWF multimer evaluations during MCS use and testing. Further research comparing this method with semi‐automated methods would provide additional insight and improve inter‐laboratory comparisons.
Behavioural differences and similarities between dog breeds: proposing an ecologically valid approach for canine behavioural research
Authors: Pongrácz Péter , Dobos Petra
Published: August 2024

The behaviour of dogs holds great relevance for not only scientists from fundamental and applied research areas, but also due to the widespread roles of dogs in our societies as companions and working animals; their behaviour is also an important factor in animal and human welfare. A large proportion of dogs currently under human supervision belong to one of roughly 400 recognised breeds. Dog breeds can be characterised by distinctive, predictable and reproducible features, including some of their behavioural traits. To the scientist, the comparative analysis of the behaviour of dog breeds provides an opportunity for investigating an array of intriguing phenomena within an easily accessible model organism created from natural and human‐driven evolutionary processes. There are many ways to design and conduct breed‐related behavioural investigations, but such endeavours should always be based around biologically relevant research questions and lead to ecologically valid conclusions. In this review, we surveyed recent research efforts that included dog behaviour‐related comparisons and applied a critical evaluation according to their methods of breed choice and the subsequent research design. Our aim was to assess whether these two fundamentally important components of experimental design provide a solid basis to reach valid conclusions. Based on 97 publications that fulfilled our selection criteria, we identified three primary methods used by researchers to select breeds for their investigations: (i) convenience sampling; (ii) hypothesis‐driven, ancestry‐based sampling; and (iii) hypothesis‐driven, functional sampling. By using the SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) evaluation system, we highlight each of these techniques' merits and shortcomings. We identify when particular methods may be inherently unable to produce biologically meaningful results due to a mismatch between breed choice and the initial research goals. We hope that our evaluation will help researchers adopt best practices in experimental design regarding future dog breed comparisons.
Patient perspective on adapting to bowel dysfunction after rectal cancer surgery
Authors: Maalouf Michael F. , Wang Anna , Robitaille Stephan , Liberman A. Sender , Fiore Julio F. , Feldman Liane S. , Lee Lawrence
Published: August 2024

Aim

Bowel dysfunction continues to be a clinically significant consequence of rectal cancer surgery, affecting quality of life. Rectal cancer patients value self‐empowerment and adaptation to change to improve their quality of life in the context of bowel dysfunction. There are limited qualitative data addressing patients' perspectives on adapting to bowel dysfunction. The aim of this study is to evaluate patients’ perspectives on adapting to bowel dysfunction after rectal cancer surgery.

Method

Adult patients who underwent rectal cancer surgery with sphincter preservation at a single colorectal referral centre from July 2017 to July 2020 were included. Patients were excluded if they had surgery <1 year since recruitment, received a permanent stoma or developed recurrence or metastasis. Semistructured interviews were held by phone and transcribed verbatim. Bowel dysfunction was assessed via the low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) score. Thematic analysis was used to identify adaptations which patients found helpful for improving bowel dysfunction after rectal cancer surgery.

Results

A total of 54 patient interviews were included. The distribution of patients with no, minor and major LARS was 39%, 22% and 39%, respectively. Four main themes were conceived from the analysis: implementing lifestyle changes, fostering supportive relationships and self‐compassion, communication and access to resources, and adapting to social and cultural challenges. Associated subthemes were identified, namely forward planning, self‐compassion and addressing social stigma.

Conclusion

Patients' valuable perspective on adapting to bowel dysfunction involve subtle themes which expand the existing literature. These themes inform a patient‐centred approach, which may improve outcomes and quality of care for rectal cancer patients.
Bad Bridget—An unexplored aspect of the Irish migration story
Authors: Millar Victoria
Published: August 2024

This paper examines how museums can address and raise awareness of histories of incarceration through a case study—the Bad Bridget exhibition, which opened at the Ulster American Folk Park in Omagh, Northern Ireland, in April 2022. Originating as an academic research project (2015–2019) led by Dr Leanne McCormick (Ulster University) and Dr Elaine Farrell (Queen's University Belfast), it tells the stories of women who left Ireland for North America between 1838 and 1918 and ended up in trouble with the authorities for one reason or another. A unique mix of sights, sounds, and smells, further enhanced by first‐person narration, is used within the exhibition to encourage visitors to emotionally engage with the experiences of these women. For much of the nineteenth century, Irish‐born migrants were the biggest group in American prisons, and there were disproportionate numbers of Irish girls and women in the justice system, court, and prison (Farrell & McCormick, ‘Bad Bridgets’: The criminal and deviant Irish women convicted in America. Irish Times, 2019). Bad Bridget has provided us with a platform to reveal this previously unexplored aspect of the Irish migration story at the museum, contrary to the “American Dream.”
A parent‐administered sensorimotor intervention for oral feeding in infants born preterm: A randomized clinical study
Authors: Fucile Sandra , Snider Laurie , O'Brien Karel , Smith Lorraine , Dow Kimberly
Published: August 2024

Aim

To evaluate the effect of a parent‐administered sensorimotor intervention (PASI) program on developmental outcomes of infants born preterm during their stay in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

Method

A randomized clinical study was conducted with 94 infants (mean gestational age 31 weeks [SD 2.2 weeks]; 1658 g [SD 478 g]; 49 males, 45 females) initially enrolled and randomly assigned to an experimental or a control group. Infants in the experimental group received a PASI, consisting of tactile input to oral structures, trunk/limbs, and non‐nutritive sucking for 15 minutes, once a day, for 10 days. Infants in the control group received standard care. Outcomes included attainment of complete oral feeds, occurrence of direct breastfeeding at hospital discharge, and motor function assessed using the Test of Infant Motor Performance (TIMP).

Results

A total of 80 infants completed the study. Infants in the experimental group achieved complete oral feeds sooner (11.9 [SD 4.3] vs 15.3 [SD 6.5] days, p = 0.013), and a greater number of them received direct breastfeeds (22 vs 12, p = 0.010) than controls. Infants in both groups had equivalent motor functions scores on the TIMP (46.9 [SD 4.8], 46.8 [SD 8.4], p = 0.961).

Interpretation

A PASI program may enhance an infant's oral feeding skills. These findings provide evidence to advocate for the institution of PASI in NICUs.
The role of teleassessment in family‐centered approaches for cerebral palsy
Authors: Ünes Sefa
Published: August 2024

This commentary is on the original article by Magalhães et al. on pages 254–262 of this issue.
Wnt/beta‐catenin modulation: A promising frontier in chronic kidney disease management
Authors: Saxena Shubhangi , Dagar Neha , Shelke Vishwadeep , Puri Bhupendra , Gaikwad Anil Bhanudas
Published: August 2024

Background

Being amongst the leading factors of death and distress, chronic kidney disease (CKD) has affected around 850 million people globally. The Wnt/β‐catenin axis is vital for maintaining kidney homeostasis, from nephron generation to overall management. The β‐catenin growth factor is typically not expressed in the adult kidney; however, its expression is found to increase under stress and injury conditions. It is categorised as canonical and non‐canonical based on β‐catenin availability, which mounts promising targets for ameliorating CKD. Hence, modulation of the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling for CKD management is of utmost relevance.

Objectives

The primary aim of this review is to highlight the significance of targeting Wnt/β‐catenin signalling for CKD management.

Methods

The literature review regarding the role of Wnt/β‐catenin signalling and therapies modulating it in CKD was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct and Google Scholar.

Results

The current review summarises the pharmacological therapies modulating the Wnt/β‐catenin axis in CKD, building upon promising preclinical studies to establish a foundation for clinical studies in the future.

Conclusion

Wnt/β‐catenin signalling is the evolution's most conserved pathway, which plays a pivotal role in CKD progression. Therapies modulating Wnt/β‐catenin signalling have emerged as effective means for alleviating CKD.
Garnet Reference Materials for In Situ Lu‐Hf Geochronology
Authors: Ribeiro Bruno V. , Kirkland Christopher L. , Smit Matthijs , Musiyachenko Kira , Korhonen Fawna J. , Evans Noreen J. , Rankenburg Kai , McDonald Bradley J. , Glorie Stijn , Gilbert Sarah E. , Goemann Karsten , Belousov Ivan , Oalmann Jeffrey , Clark Chris , Makin Sean
Published: August 2024

In situ garnet Lu‐Hf geochronology has the potential to revolutionise the chronology of petrological and tectonic processes, yet there is a paucity of well‐characterised reference materials to account for laser‐induced matrix‐dependant elemental fractionation. Here, we characterise two reference garnets GWA‐1 (Lu ~ 7.0 μg g−1) and GWA‐2 (Lu ~ 8.5 μg g−1) for in situ garnet Lu‐Hf geochronology. Isochron ages from isotope dilution Lu‐Hf analyses yield crystallisation ages of 1267.0 ± 3.0 Ma with initial 176Hf/177Hfi of 0.281415 ± 0.000012 (GWA‐1), and 934.7 ± 1.4 Ma with 176Hf/177Hfi of 0.281386 ± 0.000013 (GWA‐2). In situ Lu‐Hf analyses yield inverse isochron ages up to 10% older than the known crystallisation age due to matrix effects between garnet and reference glass (NIST SRM 610) under different instrument tuning conditions. This apparent age offset is reproducible for both materials within the same session and can be readily corrected to obtain accurate ages. Our results demonstrate that GWA‐1 and GWA‐2 are robust reference materials that can be used to correct for matrix‐analytical effects and also to assess the accuracy of in situ Lu‐Hf garnet analyses across a range of commonly encountered garnet compositions.
Quantitative Measurement of Multiple Elements in Micro‐Quantities of Crude Oil Using In Situ Analysis by Laser Ablation‐ICP‐MS
Authors: Chbani Malika , Boiron Marie‐Christine , Peiffert Chantal , Marin Jérôme , Lorgeoux Catherine , Michels Raymond
Published: August 2024

Multi‐element quantification in small amounts of material and in situ measurements at the micrometre scale are essential aspects of geological sample investigation. A direct and rapid simultaneous multi‐elemental determination of metals in crude oil samples was carried out by combining direct laser ablation of the oil inserted in silica capillaries with inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry. The accuracy of LA‐ICP‐MS determination was demonstrated by analysing CONOSTAN reference material oils, certified for multiple elements, and by comparing LA‐ICP‐MS measurement results with those obtained by ICP‐OES using microwave‐assisted sample digestion. The results obtained by both methods were in agreement with certified values. The LA‐ICP‐MS method showed an adequate precision with a mean relative standard deviation of less than 10% for multi‐element determination, and was sufficiently sensitive to determine the majority of elements. LA‐ICP‐MS was also applied to the determination of elements in crude oils of different origins. LA‐ICP‐MS is a good alternative method allowing the determination of elements in organic fluids (oil and bitumen) in shorter times, involving less material consumption, smaller test portion size and with higher throughput compared with protocols using, for instance, sample digestion. It validates the possible application of metal analysis in hydrocarbon‐containing fluid inclusions for metallogenic purposes.
Numerical Modeling of Recovery of Moisture from the Unsaturated Zone: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Amitabha , Akber Adnan , Bhandary Harish
Published: August 2024

Numerical modeling of the recovery of moisture by injecting warm air in the unsaturated zone in a 100 m × 100 m plot of agricultural land in Kuwait, a country located in an arid environment, was conducted to provide “proof of concept” of the technique. If technically and economically feasible, it will be a potential additional source of water that could be exploited for farming activities and other uses. The COMSOL software was used to develop the model and, based on the results of the scenario runs, the effects of different hydraulic and operational parameters, including that of well spacing, on moisture recovery were assessed. In general, the results suggested that the recovery should increase with the increase in the hydraulic conductivity of the unsaturated zone, the amount of heat input, and the pressure differential between the unsaturated zone and the well head. Within the period examined (0 to 11 days), the recovery decreases with the increase in the soil moisture content, possibly due to the fall in relative permeability to moisture‐rich air with the increased water contents in the pore spaces, although the effects may change over a longer period as water contents decrease with moisture recovery. The moisture recovery from the unsaturated zone through the injection of warm air appears to be a feasible proposition from this study that should be demonstrated through a pilot scale experiment in the field.
Effect of peeling and packaging methods on volatile compounds in pepper (Piper nigrum L.) during storage
Authors: Yu Peiyao , Zhang Yuan , Zhang Bing , Shen Dezhan , Zhao Zhenhua , Wei Lijiao , Guo Xinbo
Published: August 2024

Pepper is valued for its flavour and medicinal properties, but there is a lack of comparative studies on the quality of white pepper under different storage conditions, as well as on the dynamic changes of volatiles during storage. To investigate the effects of peeling and packaging on pepper flavour and reveal the dynamic changes of volatiles, this study utilised HS‐SPME‐GC–MS to analyse the volatiles of white pepper under different peeling and packaging conditions. A total of 22 volatiles were detected, with α‐copaene, α‐terpineol, and δ‐amorphene being predominant to the volatile distinctions, while α‐copaene, α‐terpineol, and γ‐terpinene were predominant to the flavour distinctions. Mechanically peeled pepper stored in conventional packaging for 90 d or in vacuum packaging for 180 d could both uphold great quality. The flavour of manually peeled pepper stored in conventional packaging for 180 d resembled that stored in vacuum condition for 360 d.
Disease Burden of RSV Infections and Bronchiolitis in Young Children (< 5 Years) in Primary Care and Emergency Departments: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Heemskerk Susanne , van Heuvel Lotte , Asey Tamana , Bangert Mathieu , Kramer Rolf , Paget John , van Summeren Jojanneke
Published: August 2024

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the most common cause of acute respiratory infections in young children. Limited data are available on RSV disease burden in primary care and emergency departments (EDs). This review synthesizes the evidence on population‐based incidence rates of RSV infections in young children (< 5 years) in primary care and EDs. A systematic literature review was performed in PubMed and Embase. Studies reporting yearly population‐based RSV incidence rates in primary care and EDs were included. A total of 4244 records were screened and 32 studies were included, conducted between 1993 and 2019. Studies were mainly performed in high‐income countries (n = 27), with 15 studies in North America and 10 studies in Europe. There was significant variability in study methodology and setting among studies, resulting in considerable variability in reported incidence rates. Incidence rates were higher in primary care—ranging from 0.8 to 330 (median = 109) per 1000 population—compared to EDs (7.5–144.0, median = 48). The highest incidence rates were reported in infants. Additionally, incidence rates were higher in high‐income countries and in studies using laboratory‐confirmed RSV cases compared to studies using bronchiolitis ICD‐codes (non–laboratory confirmed). Our study found that a substantial number of children under 5 years of age attend primary care settings and EDs, every year for RSV infections. Due to the considerable heterogeneity in study methodology, it was impossible to draw definitive conclusions regarding factors explaining differences in reported incidence rates. Additionally, more studies in low‐ and middle‐income countries are recommended.
Student nurses experiences of moral distress: A concept analysis
Authors: Rebecca Timmins
Published: August 2024

Aim

To understand how pre‐registration student nurses experience moral distress and refine the concept in this population.

Background

The experience of moral distress has positive and negative effects for health professionals and negatively impacts on patient care. Moral distress is a fluid concept which permits the experience to be varied among different populations. Despite empirical research, a concept analysis has not been performed in the student nurse population.

Data Sources

Electronic databases were searched via Ebsco Host Complete and included Cinahl, Medline, APA Psych in March 2024. Search terms included ‘Moral Distress’ AND ‘Student’, ‘Moral Distress’ and ‘Baccalaureate.’ Search limits included articles between 2014 and 2024, English Language. Twenty‐five papers were included in the review and consisted of eight quantitative studies, 11 qualitative studies, three mixed methods studies and three literature/systematic reviews.

Methods

An integrated mixed research synthesis (Sandelowski, Voils, Barroso 2006) was conducted and organized into Walker, Avant's (2005) framework of antecedents, attributes and consequences. Braun and Clarkes (2006) thematic analysis was then used to generate themes from the literature.

Results

Antecedents emerged as students having moral sensitivity, they recognize unethical circumstances. Attributes identified roots of moral distress. These roots include poor patient care, harm to the patient and unsafe care. Students experience of morally reprehensible events is exacerbated by the disempowerment they experience as being ‘just a student’. Student nurses who do not exhibit moral courage and do not oppose immoral practices do so due to internal constraints which transpire as fear of conflict, withdrawal of learning opportunities, and fear of disruption to learning. This is influenced by their registered nurse supervisor relationship. Consequences of moral distress identify negative feelings, coping mechanisms and positive effects.

Conclusion

The attributes of moral distress in the student nurse population have distinctive features which should be considered by nurse educators and in empirical research.

Patient or Public Contribution

None, as this is a concept analysis that contributes to theory development and is not empirical research.