bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aflatoxin content and heavy metals composition of powdered pepper
from selected markets in Kwara state, Nigeria
Authors: Awoyale Wasiu , Zorbari Nwineh L. , Sanni Lateef Oladimeji
Published: November 2024

Aflatoxin and heavy metal concentrations may pose health risks to pepper
consumers. No research has been published concerning aflatoxin and heavy metal
contamination of powdered pepper in Kwara state, Nigeria, hence the need for
this study. Powdered pepper samples from various Kwara state markets (Offa,
Oja-Oba, Ganmo, Shao, Elemere, and Malete), were analyzed using standard methods
for aflatoxins B1 (AFB1), B2 (AFB2), G1 (AFG1), and G2 (AFG2), and lead,
cadmium, copper, and arsenic. A laboratory-prepared sample was used as the
control. The samples’ mean AFB1 was 2.86 μg/kg, AFG1 4.34
μg/kg, AFB2 2.03 μg/kg, and AFG2 1.88 μg/kg. In general,
the levels of aflatoxin in the powdered pepper samples were found in the order
of AFG1 > AFB1 > AFB2 > AFG2. The samples’ aflatoxin
concentration is less than the US Food and Drug Administration’s (20
μg/kg) contamination threshold. The FDA’s guideline for lead level
in food, which is 0.1 mg/kg, was surpassed by the lead concentration, which
varied from 1.84 to 3.45 mg/kg. The range of arsenic concentration was
10.18-22.68 mg/kg, which is higher than the World Health Organization’s
recommended limit of 0.0003 mg/kg. The copper concentration met the FDA’s
10-mg/kg threshold, which ranged from 2.66 to 4.42 mg/kg. The study’s
findings demonstrate the need for a monitoring and education programme in Kwara
state to ensure the public’s safety while consuming powdered pepper.
Quality characteristics of fermented rice
makgeolli with the addition of Crepidiastrum
sonchifolium by processing method
Authors: Oh Bong-Yun , Lee Seul-Gi
Published: November 2024

The quality characteristics of fermented rice makgeolli added
with Crepidiastrum sonchifolium (CS) prepared with various
processing methods were investigated. Rice makgeolli was
manufactured by adding CS, prepared with various processing methods, at
2.5% of starch raw material rice. The treatments include CS [fresh (CS),
hot water extract (CSE), hot air dried powder (CSP), and sugar leaching (CSS)].
The pH value ranged from 4.10 to 4.20 initially to 3.77 to 3.85 after adding
water. The total acidity was 0.54-0.58%. The chromaticity of
makgeolli showed the highest brightness in CSS, and the
redness a value and yellowness b value were low. The alcohol content was
13.5-16.3%, the highest in CSS. The total polyphenol content was
331.34-377.02 μg/mL. The DPPH radical scavenging amount was
44.14-56.43%, showing the highest antioxidant activity of CSP, followed
by CSS, which showed a similar trend to the total phenol compounds content. The
organic acid content was 4,304.90-6,159.90 μg/mL. It was produced at the
highest level during fermentation in makgeolli when adding CSS,
and the soluble solids and organic acid contents were the highest in CSS, so it
was thought that the overall preference would be high due to the harmony of the
sugar-acid ratio. These results show that makgeolli with CSS
addition has high antioxidant properties. It suggests that CSS appplied in
makgeolli can be developed commercially due to its
properties.
Severe traumatic brain injury temporally affects cerebral blood flow, endothelial cell phenotype, and cilia
Authors: Gupta Ankan , Bice Zachary , Chen Vaya , Chen Yiliang , Veltri Anthony J. , Lin Chien-Wei , Ma Xialong , Pan Amy Y. , Zennadi Rahima , Palecek Sean P. , Mohieldin Ashraf M. , Nauli Surya M. , Ramchandran Ramani , Rarick Kevin R.
Published: November 2024

Background

Previous clinical work suggested that altered cerebral blood flow (CBF) in severe traumatic brain injury (sTBI) correlates with poor executive function and clinical outcome. However, the molecular consequences of altered CBF on endothelial cells (ECs) and their blood flow-sensor organelle called cilia are not known.

Methods

We performed laser speckle contrast imaging, single cell isolation, and single cell RNA sequencing (scRNAseq) after sTBI in a closed skull, linear impact mouse model. Validation of select ciliary target protein changes was performed using flow cytometry. Additionally,in vitroexperiments modeled the post-injury hypoxic environment to evaluate the effect on cilia protein ARL13B in human brain microvascular ECs.

Results

We detected immediate reductions in CBF that were sustained for at least 100 minutes in both impacted and non-impacted sides of the brain. Our scRNAseq data detected heterogeneity in the brain cortex-derived EC cluster and demonstrated that two of five unique EC sub-clusters changed their relative proportions post-sTBI. Consistent with flow changes, we identified multiple genes associated with the fluid shear stress pathway that were significantly differentially expressed in brain ECs post-injury. Also, ECs displayed activation of ischemic pathway as early as day 1 post-injury, and enrichment of hypoxia pathway at day 7 and 28 post- injury.Arl13bciliary gene expression was lost on day 1 in ECs cluster and remained lost for the entire course of the injury. We validated the loss of cilia protein ARL13B specifically from brain ECs as early as day 1 post-injury and detected the protein in the peripheral blood of the injured mice. We also determined that hypoxia could induce loss of ARL13B protein from cultured ECs.

Conclusions

In severe TBI, blood flow is disrupted in both impacted and non-impacted regions of the brain, creating a hypoxic environment that may influence ciliary gene and protein expression on ECs.
Trends in Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV at PEPFAR-Supported Sites in Mozambique, 2017–2023
Authors: Langa Judite , de Deus Maria Inês , Arciniegas Sarah , Wate Argentina , Bila Erica , Alfândega Arla , Mate Nelice , Rungo Irene , Azambuja Gizela , Tibana Kwalila , Eliseu Námita
Published: November 2024

Background

Mozambique has implemented Prevention of Vertical Transmission (PVT) of HIV as part of national programming since 2002. Despite gains, vertical transmission rates remain high, estimated at 9% in 2023. We describe PVT progress at PEPFAR-supported sites.

Methods

We analyzed routine data from 656 PEPFAR-supported sites reported for fiscal years (October–September) 2017–2023. We calculated the proportion of pregnant women (PW) at first antenatal care (ANC1) who knew their status, HIV test positivity (positive tests divided by the total number of tests conducted); the proportion of PW on antiretroviral therapy (ART); the proportion of PW on ART with documented viral load (VL) test; the proportion of PW and breastfeeding women (BFW) with viral load suppression (VLS, defined as <1,000 copies/mL); the proportion of HIV-exposed infants (HEI) tested by 12 months who tested HIV positive; and the proportion of HEI-positives on ART. Data were analyzed by fiscal year.

Results

During 2017–2023, the proportion of PW who knew their HIV status at ANC1 increased from 90.4% (863,181/954,933) to 99.9% (1,047,870/1,049,225); HIV-positivity among PW at ANC1 decreased from 9.7% (84,038/863,181) to 8.1% (84,429/1,047,870); PW on ART remained above 99%; the proportion of PW who received a VL test increased from 24.5% (9,862/40,293) to 74.9% (46,292/61,818); and VLS increased from 51.4% (5,073/9,862) to 88.5% (40,950/46,292) and 60.8% (8,643/14,205) to 92.7% (149,893/161,695) among PW and BFW, respectively. During 2017–2023, HEI testing coverage increased from 76.5% (64,322/84,038) to 96.0% (82,689/86,132), and HEI HIV positivity declined from 8.5% (5,487/64,322) to 2.5% (2,075/82,689); during 2018–2023, the proportion of HIV positive HEI on ART increased from 82.7% (3,521/4,256) to 93.3% (1,936/2,075).

Conclusion

PEPFAR-supported sites have achieved progress in PVT. Continued implementation of sound interventions to improve ART initiation and retention, VLS, and HEI treatment linkage can lead to further reductions in vertical transmission and the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV as a public health problem in the country.
Multi-Scale Characterization of Distance-dependent Functional Dysconnections in Major Depressive Disorder Across Two Asian Cohorts: A Genomic, Neurochemical, and Cellular Perspective
Authors: Qian Rui , Gao Huaijin , Qiu Bowen , Li Zichao , Gu Baorong , Ye Tongmei ,   the DIRECT Consortium, Wu Dan , Zhao Zhiyong
Published: November 2024

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is a prevalent, chronic, and multidimensional mental disorder characterized by widespread functional dysconnectivity in the whole brain. However, the potential molecular, cellular, and neural mechanisms, contributing to the diverse symptomatology and heterogeneity of MDD remain poorly understood. This study aims to elucidate the multi-scale pathophysiological mechanisms underlying MDD subtypes by integrating functional connectivity, transcriptomic, neurotransmitter, and cell-type analyses across two Asian cohorts: the Chinese REST-meta-MDD Consortium (Discovery) and the Japanese Decoded Neurofeedback Project (Validation). The discovery cohort identified distinct patterns of distance-dependent functional connectivity strength (FCS) alterations in MDD, revealing short- to medium-range hyperconnectivity in both total MDD and recurrent MDD (RMDD) patients, with long-range hyperconnectivity specifically observed in RMDD. In contrast, first-episode drug-naïve (FEDN) patients did not exhibit significant distance-dependent alterations in FCS. Genes associated with the FCS differences between FEDN and RMDD were enriched in pathways related to chemical synaptic transmission, neuron projection, and synaptic signaling. Moreover, FCS alterations in MDD subtypes were correlated with neurotransmitter receptor densities, particularly in the monoaminergic (e.g., 5HT1a, 5HT2a, and KappaOp) and GABAergic (GABAa) systems. Distinctive cell-type associations were observed, with astrocytes, endothelial cells, and oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) linked to FCS changes in RMDD, while only OPCs were associated with alterations in FEDN. The validation cohort partially replicated the key findings regarding distance-dependent FCS alterations, transcriptomic signatures, neurotransmitter associations, and cell-type specific relationships. These findings provide novel insights into the neurobiological underpinnings of functional dysconnections in MDD subtypes.
Rapid rewiring of an archaeal transcription factor function via flexible cis-trans interactions
Authors: Martinez-Pastor Mar , Darnell Cynthia L , Vreugdenhil Angie , Schmid Amy
Published: November 2024

For microbial cells, an appropriate response to changing environmental conditions is critical for viability. Transcription regulatory proteins, or transcription factors (TFs) sense environmental signals to change gene expression. However, it remains unclear how TFs and their corresponding gene regulatory networks are selected over evolutionary time scales. The function of TFs and how they evolve are particularly understudied in archaeal organisms. Here we identified, characterized, and compared the function of the RosR transcription factor across three related hypersaline adapted archaeal model species. RosR was previously characterized as a global regulator of gene expression during oxidative stress in the species Halobacterium salinarum (hsRosR). Here we use functional genomics and quantitative phenotyping to demonstrate that, despite strong sequence conservation of RosR across species, its function diverges substantially. Surprisingly, RosR in Haloferax volcanii (hvRosR) and Haloferax mediterranei (hmRosR) regulates genes whose products function in motility and outer membrane structure, leading to significant defects in motility when rosR is deleted. Given weak conservation and degeneration in cis-regulatory sequences recognized by the RosR TF across species, we hypothesize that the RosR regulatory network is readily rewired during evolution across related species of archaea.
Single-dose avian influenza A(H5N1) Clade 2.3.4.4b hemagglutinin–Matrix-M nanoparticle vaccine induces neutralizing responses in nonhuman primates
Authors: Patel Nita , Rehman Asma , Trost Jessica F. , Flores Rhonda , Longacre Zach , Guebre-Xabier Mimi , Zhou Haixia , Zhou Bin , Jacobson Kelsey , Jiang Desheng , Bai Xiaoyun , Khatoon Rafia , Kort Thomas , Norton Jim , Madhangi M. , Hersey Melinda , Greene Ann M. , Dubovsky Filip , Smith Gale
Published: November 2024

With the recent rise in cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A(H5N1) clade 2.3.4.4b infection in humans and animals, there is an associated increase in the risk of human-to-human transmission. In this study, we characterize recombinant A(H5N1) A/American Wigeon/South Carolina/22/000345-001/2021 (A/AW/SC/2021) clade 2.3.4.4b vaccine. Purified recombinant A/AW/SC/2021 HA trimers upon formulation with Matrix-M™ adjuvant, saponin-cholesterol-phospholipid icosahedral particles, non-covalently anchored to the vertices of the Matrix-M forming A(H5N1) HA–Matrix-M nanoparticles (H5-MNPs). In naïve mice, two intranasal (IN) or intramuscular (IM) doses of A/AW/SC/2021 H5-MNP vaccine induced robust antibody- and cell-mediated immune responses, including neutralizing antibodies against A(H5N1). In non-human primates (NHPs) primed with seasonal influenza vaccine, a single IM or IN dose of the A/AW/SC/2021 H5-MNP vaccine induced geometric mean serum A(H5N1) clade 2.3.4.4b pseudovirus neutralizing titers of 1:1160 and 1:54, respectively; above the generally accepted seroconverting neutralizing titer of 1:40. Immunization with H5-MNP vaccine induced antibody responses against conserved epitopes in the A(H5N1) HA stem, vestigial esterase subdomain, and receptor binding site. This novel A(H5N1) H5-MNP IN and IM vaccine was immunogenic in rodents and NHPs as a potential A(H5N1) pandemic single-dose vaccine.
Reentrant localization transitions and anomalous spectral properties in off-diagonal quasiperiodic systems
Authors: Tabanelli Hugo , Castelnovo Claudio , Štrkalj Antonio
Published: November 2024

We investigate the localization properties of quasiperiodic tight-binding chains with hopping terms modulated by the interpolating Aubry-André-Fibonacci (IAAF) function. This off-diagonal IAAF model allows for a smooth and controllable interpolation between two paradigmatic quasiperiodic models: the Aubry-André and the Fibonacci model. Our analysis shows that the spectrum of this model can be divided into three principal bands, namely, two molecular bands at the edge of the spectrum and one atomic band in the middle, for all values of the interpolating parameter. We reveal that the states in the molecular bands undergo multiple reentrant localization transitions, a behavior previously reported in the diagonal IAAF model. We link the emergence of these reentrant phenomena to symmetry points of the quasiperiodic modulation and, with that, explain the main ground-state properties of the system. The atomic states in the middle band show no traces of localized phases and remain either extended or critical for any value of the interpolating parameter. Using a renormalization group approach, adapted from the Fibonacci model, we explain the extended nature of the middle band. These findings expand our knowledge of phase transitions within quasiperiodic systems and highlight the interplay between extended, critical, and localized states.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Consumers’ healthy lifestyle as a determinant of the influence of microcelebrities and microinfluencers
Authors: Palazón Mariola , Alarcón-del-Amo María del Carmen , Martínez Borja , López Manuela
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study analyzes what type of influencer – microcelebrity or microinfluencer – is best suited to promoting healthy food brands and how that influence depends on consumers’ healthy lifestyles.

Design/methodology/approach

An empirical study with a real healthy food brand was developed in which three real influencers from Instagram collaborated and posted a story showing the company’s products. A total of 148 individuals participated in the study. The proposed model was tested using the PROCESS macro.

Findings

Drawing on the celebrity endorsement literature and the meaning transfer model, this study proposes that microcelebrities’ and microinfluencers’ influence on consumers’ perception and behavior in terms of post relevance, brand attitude and purchase intention toward healthy food brands depends on the consumers’ healthy lifestyle. Thus, microcelebrities have more influence on individuals with unhealthy lifestyles, while microinfluencers have more influence on individuals that pursue a healthy lifestyle.

Originality/value

It is one of the first studies to examine the different roles of microinfluencers versus microcelebrities in promoting consumers’ attitudes and behaviors toward healthy food brands. In addition, this is one of the few studies to show a higher effect of microcelebrities over microinfluencers.
Unveiling dimensions of social security research: a comprehensive bibliometric analysis and collaborative landscape
Authors: Rahimi Mohammad , Moshiri Hossein , Otarkhani Ali
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate patterns, trends and knowledge networks within social security research. By using bibliometric analysis, the research seeks to provide a comprehensive perspective on the evolution of global social security research. The purpose extends to identifying significant contributors, collaborative clusters and multifaceted issues addressed in the field.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses bibliometric analysis to assess social security research trends and knowledge networks from 2015 to 2023. Using the Web of Science database, 6,152 relevant articles are analyzed. Quantitative techniques such as coauthorship network analysis, institutional productivity rankings and keyword clustering are applied for a comprehensive understanding.

Findings

The findings indicate a rising trajectory of publications in social security research, with the USA, China and Europe emerging as top contributors. Coauthorship patterns reveal collaborative clusters with focused research interests. Prominent authors emphasize key aspects like public policy, economics, health and labor dynamics related to social security. Keyword clustering identifies nine thematic clusters, ranging from inequality and poverty to retirement and disability reforms. A thematic map visualizes overarching categories, including motor themes, basic themes, niche themes and emerging themes.

Originality/value

This bibliometric study offers original insights into global social security research, providing a comprehensive understanding of its evolution, significant contributors and diverse thematic issues addressed. The originality lies in the application of quantitative techniques, including coauthorship network analysis and keyword clustering, to reveal collaborative patterns and thematic clusters. The study’s value extends to facilitating evidence-based decision-making for advancing the critical domain of social security through international collaboration and impactful research aligned with societal needs.
Investor sentiment and stock markets during the war in pandemic time
Authors: Bouteska A. , Hassan Mohamad Kabir , Safa M. Faisal
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to use three proxy variables – initial public offerings, trading volume and business confidence index (BCI) to construct an investor sentiment index both for the USA and China, taking into account the challenging periods of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russo-Ukrainian conflict.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on monthly data for a period from January 2009 to June 2022, this paper uses data of BCI, consumer confidence index (CCI), gross domestic product, trading volume and Fama and French (1993) factor data; linear regression of single and multifactor model; and EGARCH-M model for analyzing the effect of investor sentiment on stock market return and volatility, both in the USA and China.

Findings

The empirical results indicate the suitability of BCI over CCI as a measure of investor sentiment, both in the USA and China. The results indicate that investor sentiment has a significant positive effect on the excess returns in the stock market in both countries. Moreover, the effect of investor sentiment is higher in China than it is in the USA. Such an effect of investor sentiment is significant and fluctuates asymmetrically in the short run but loses its significance in the long run. Optimistic investor sentiment has a larger effect on the stock market volatility in the USA, while the pessimistic investor sentiment has a larger effect in the Chinese stock market.

Originality/value

This paper focuses on finding a more suitable proxy for investor sentiment from BCI or CCI. This paper also contributes by including both optimism and pessimism in explaining the stock return and volatility in both markets. The overall findings are important for understanding investor behavior in different market conditions.
Assessing ambidextrous leadership in organizations: review and future scope for research
Authors: Jain Sarika , Badra Shailja , Vichore Sarita
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore ambidextrous leadership, a complex and multifaceted domain within leadership studies. This study examines the concept of ‘ambidextrous leadership’ from its inception, employing bibliometric analysis and the Theory–Context–Characteristics–Methods (TCCM) framework to address critical research questions and identify pathways for future investigation in leadership research.

Design/methodology/approach

To accomplish this objective, the authors conduct a bibliometric analysis and TCCM analysis of ambidextrous leadership, using data sourced from Scopus, the most extensive scientific database for review purposes. By examining 99 documents (spanning from 2007 through September 2023) related to ambidextrous leadership research from Scopus, this paper unveils insights into the performance analysis (such as publication year, noteworthy articles, prominent journals, influential authors and geographic distribution) and the evolution of scientific exploration (including key topics and themes) within the field of ambidextrous leadership over two decades. The investigation used various science mapping tools like keyword analysis, three-field plots, bibliographic coupling, co-occurrence network analysis and thematic mapping analysis. To evaluate the Bibliometric Coupling and Co-occurrence Network, a VOS viewer was used. TCCM analysis guides the future directions of research.

Findings

The bibliometric analysis reveals the publication trends, most influential authors, articles, journals, countries and important keywords. Subsequently, it presents the network connections in the field of ambidextrous leadership. TCCM analysis recognized emerging research diversifications in the literature on ambidextrous leadership.

Research limitations/implications

A single database, i.e. Scopus, was used to extract the data which poses a limitation for the current study. This study provides insights to the researchers and practitioners on a comprehensive understanding of the emerging concept of “ambidextrous leadership,” an overview of the publication trends and emerging research themes identified in the clusters, and suggests possible directions for further study using TCCM analysis.

Originality/value

This study provides the intellectual structure of ambidextrous leadership literature and its advancement over the years using bibliometric analysis and TCCM analysis.
Sustainability communication: a content analysis of websites of higher education institutions in the UK
Authors: Abuzeinab Amal , Muhammad Abdulrahman Haruna , Awuzie Bankole , Letten Karl , Zairi Adel
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Websites of higher education institutions (HEIs) have been identified as veritable platforms for communicating sustainability. However, studies seeking to assess the correlation between the degree of communication and the sustainability performance of HEIs, based on their rankings specifically in the UK, remain limited. As its contribution towards bridging this gap, this study aims to examine how members of the Environmental Association of Universities and Colleges (EAUC) communicate sustainability through their websites. It focuses on 27 EAUC members that received first-class awards in the People and Planet University League.

Design/methodology/approach

An intensive Web-based content analysis was used to analyse the degree of sustainability communication carried out by HEIs that are EAUC members through their respective websites. To analyse the content of these websites, 16 existing indicators were adopted covering three categories: sustainability management strategies and policies; location of sustainability-related information on the websites; and sustainability communication techniques.

Findings

All the HEIs examined in this study demonstrate some level of engagement in sustainability on their respective websites. Although EAUC members appear to be making significant effort in communicating their commitment to sustainability, this study recommends improvements in the visibility of sustainability messages on homepages of institutional websites, as only a small percentage of institutions mention sustainability-related matters there.

Practical implications

With HEIs increasingly taking actions towards sustainability, this study presents a valuable contribution to the growing body of knowledge in this field, encouraging HEIs to effectively communicate their sustainability practices to stakeholders.

Originality/value

As far as the authors are aware, this study represents the first endeavour to evaluate the sustainability content available on the EAUC members websites of HEIs in the UK.
Strategies for promoting sustainable development in higher education institutions of the QualEnv Consortium: a focus on teaching, research and outreach
Authors: Fuchs Paulo Guilherme , Aver Gisleine , da Rocha Junior Valdemiro , Cembranel Priscila , Cubas Anelise Leal Vieira , Dutra Ana Regina Aguiar , Salgueirinho Osório de Andrade Guerra José Baltazar
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study explores the strategies for promoting sustainable development (SD) adopted by the higher education institutions (HEIs) associated with the QualEnv University Consortium (QualEnv). The research examines actions in three main domains: teaching, research and outreach. This study aims to understand better how these strategies are applied and their impact on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The results of this study can potentially contribute to the effectiveness of action plans for SD in HEIs and provide valuable insights for other institutions and stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was based on institutionalizing sustainability research and practices in QualEnv HEIs. In this process, the research used participant observation for data collection. Data was collected through documentary research and a literature review. The data were analyzed qualitatively.

Findings

The results allowed understanding sustainability in all three areas. In teaching, most attention was paid to implementing the SDGs in the curricula and various courses at the institutions. Strategies for qualifying publications and greater dissemination and involvement of research initiatives with the SDGs were sought in research. In outreach, the means and activities the HEIs adopt to reach out to the internal and external (surrounding) communities concerning the SDGs and the search for their propagation and implementation were notable. Many of the actions result from changes to existing processes, which have been given a close look by the institutions with a view to improvement.

Originality/value

This study discusses the practical implications for HEIs to plan and implement SD in their teaching, research and outreach activities. It also demonstrates the effort to improve initiatives to work on education for sustainability, as it shows how the institutions belonging to the QualEnv consortium have planned their strategies to contribute to SD.
Potential of Islamic banking: focus on the Tunisian market
Authors: Ammar Rym , Saidane Dhafer
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to assess the social utility of the Islamic banking system, with a focus on the Tunisian market as a case example.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors study individuals’ potential demand for Islamic financial products in different Tunisian regions. To do that, the authors conducted a national survey based on the quota sampling method to select the number of interviewed by governorate and sex. The authors then obtained a sample that included 1,600 persons from different social categories with a minimum age of 18 years.

Findings

The survey results show that this potential demand is significant but Tunisian Islamic Banks should work more to enlarge their existing customer base. Indeed, they should consider the level of Islamic finance knowledge and the sociodemographic characteristics (such as governorate, level of education and annual income) to ensure social welfare. They should also supply Islamic microfinance products to ensure the inclusion of poorer agents. In addition, Islamic banks should provide competitive products and services at lower cost and higher quality that are compliant with the Sharia principles to encourage entrepreneurs or richer agents to invest in profitable and innovative projects, especially in economically disadvantaged regions. This would strengthen accountable decentralization and fight income inequality in Tunisia.

Originality/value

This work reflects the behavior and preferences of all Tunisians (adopters or non-adopters of IFPS) including the Tunisian inland areas inhabitants. To do this, we include the socio-demographic factors in our analysis.
Safety costs in Arctic shipping: a proposal classification and estimation
Authors: Wan Junjie , Baumler Raphael
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study classifies and estimates safety costs in Arctic shipping.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the literature review, the paper details shipping prevention costs into five categories (infrastructure and facilities, measures, technologies, personnel and management) and groups marine accidents into injury and death, property damage, environmental damage and others.

Findings

The proposed classification and estimation allow for a comparison of prevention costs and accident expenses. Estimating safety expenses in the Arctic presents challenges, such as data inadequacies. However, the method has been tested with data provided by an Arctic ship operator.

Practical implications

Thus, shipping companies can verify the effectiveness of their investments and reorientate whenever necessary, becoming a decision-support system to best allocate safety investments. Combined with company safety performance, the tool can help identify the safety areas requiring enhanced attention.

Originality/value

This paper presents the first classification and a tool to assess safety costs in relation to Arctic shipping, potentially supporting safety investment decisions.
In vitro degradation behavior, cytocompatibility and hemocompatibility of topologically ordered functionally graded iron-hydroxyapatite-zinc composite biodegradable biomaterial fabricated using 3D printing and pressureless microwave sintering
Authors: Tripathi Gaurav , Pandey Pulak Mohan
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Topologically ordered functionally graded composite (TOFGC) biodegradable materials are needed in the field of metallic degradable implants, as they degrade over a period of time avoiding the necessity of another surgery for implant removal. Also, their rate of degradation can be tailored to match the requirement of the patient. These biomaterials also have the functionality to assist bone growth and eliminate stress shielding in orthopaedic implants.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, TOFGC biomaterials were developed for the first time using additive manufacturing, pressureless microwave sintering and casting methods, and their cytocompatibility, hemocompatibility and in vitro degradation evaluations were done. Also, pure dense iron and iron scaffolds were included in the study, for the comparison of results with the iron-hydroxyapatite-zinc functionally graded composite biomaterial.

Findings

The maximum weight loss and corrosion rate were found to be 6.98% and 2.38 mmpy, respectively, in the immersion test and electrochemical test for Fe-3.5HAp-54Zn biomaterial. Zinc-infiltrated composite biomaterials exhibited excellent cytocompatibility and hemocompatibility as compared to pure dense iron and iron scaffolds. A comparative analysis was conducted, taking into account relevant literature, and it was determined that the fabricated iron-hydroxyapatite-zinc biomaterial demonstrated desirable degradation and biological characteristics, customized to meet the specific requirements of bone tissue engineering applications.

Originality/value

TOFGC iron-hydroxyapatite-zinc biomaterial has been fabricated for the first time using the developed novel methodology and their degradation and biological characterizations were performed.
Does reality congruence determine e-commerce customer’s engagement? Role of service quality, trust and commitment
Authors: Pooja  , Verma Pranay , Singh Jasbir
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The advent of mixed reality technologies in e-commerce presents marketers with numerous challenges in effectively harnessing these technologies to influence desired consumer behaviours. This paper explores the role of mixed reality in facilitating reality congruence, with the goal of enhancing e-service quality and fostering customer engagement. Through an exploration of the affordance actualization theory within the context of human–computer interaction frameworks, the study examines how mixed reality aligns virtual experiences with real-world perceptions, thereby improving service interactions and contributing to a more immersive and engaging customer experience.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey-based research methodology was utilized to examine the sample of 346 participants drawn from e-commerce users, focusing on the conceptual model delineating interrelations among various constructs. Data analysis was conducted employing both symmetric (structural equation model) and asymmetric analysis (fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis).

Findings

E-service quality assumes a central role in enhancing reality congruence, thereby facilitating the development of interconnected trait associations such as trust and commitment, which are conducive to customer engagement. Additionally, the findings confirm the validity of the conceptual model through fsQCA analysis, indicating that reality congruence and trust collectively serve as robust predictors of customer engagement. However, it is noteworthy that reality congruence alone does not offer significant predictive insights into customer engagement outcomes.

Practical implications

Based on the findings, reality congruence, supported by mixed reality (MR), is essential for e-commerce service providers to induce customer engagement. The practical implications of this study suggest the need for e-commerce service providers and integrative technology designers to engage customers in a digitally connected and intensively competitive era.

Originality/value

Examining the phenomenon of user experience in a mixed reality virtual shopping environment to enhance engagement in centennial consumers is an original approach.
Change and Continuity in British Politics: Can the Starmer Government's Approach to Governance Resolve the Crisis in the British State without Radical Reform?
Authors: Diamond Patrick , Richards David , Warner Sam
Published: November 2024

In this article, the key dilemmas that will confront the new Labour administration in Britain during its initial period in power are examined. The Starmer government is seeking to use the state pragmatically to improve British economic performance, stem the crisis in public services and strengthen the strategic capacity of Whitehall. However, embryonic approach represents a melding of disparate ideas and traditions that have yet to cohere into a cogent model of statecraft. As a result, the strategy is replete with tensions and dilemmas that make the task of governing competently extremely challenging in the current national and geo‐political environment. Owing to the scale of the crises that Labour has inherited, the article considers whether a statecraft approach that places greater emphasis on continuity over change is viable in the absence of a much needed, radical vision for a reimagined British state.
Tax credits and child outcomes: lessons from the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada
Authors: Michelmore Katherine
Published: November 2024

Over the last several decades, there have been historic shifts in the structure of cash transfer programmes in Western, developed countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada. For all three of these countries, the turn of the 21st century marked a shift away from unconditional cash transfer programmes, such as traditional cash welfare, towards an emphasis on benefits that encourage or require work. In this paper, I review the evidence on the impact of tax credits on child outcomes, focusing on what is known about child‐oriented tax credits in the US (i.e. earned income tax credit and child tax credit), the UK (i.e. working families’ tax credit, child tax credit and working tax credit) and Canada (i.e. Canada child tax benefit, national child benefit and Canada child benefit). Overwhelmingly, the evidence from these three countries suggests that tax credits have positive impacts on children for a host of different outcomes, including infant birthweight, childhood health and achievement, educational attainment, wages, and poverty in adulthood. While there is a large, growing body of evidence on the impact of these tax credits on children, future work should further investigate the precise mechanisms through which tax credits affect child outcomes, the characteristics of children most affected by these credits, and the importance of how frequently the credits are distributed.
Microalgae and cyanobacteria as microbial substrate and their influence on the potential postbiotic capability of a bacterial probiotic
Authors: Domínguez‐Maqueda Marta , Pérez‐Gómez Olivia , García‐Márquez Jorge , Espinosa‐Ruíz Cristóbal , Cuesta Alberto , Esteban Mª. Ángeles , Alarcón‐López Francisco Javier , Cárdenas Casimiro , Tapia‐Paniagua Silvana T. , Balebona Mª. Carmen , Moriñigo Miguel Ángel
Published: November 2024

Postbiotics are metabolic by‐products from microorganisms that provide health benefits to the host. Their secretion can be influenced by various conditions affecting bacterial metabolism. This study presents a novel approach for producing potential postbiotics, specifically extracellular products (ECPs), from the probiotic strain Shewanella putrefaciens SpPdp11, grown under different culture conditions. These conditions include aquafeed media, with partial or total microalgae/cyanobacteria replacement as the microbial substrate, as well as variations in temperature and growth phase. The use of microalgae/cyanobacteria as substrates may represent a valuable strategy for generating novel postbiotics with unique properties. The ECPs assessed were evaluated for their in vitro cytotoxic, hydrolytic and antimicrobial activities. Three conditions (ECPs derived from aquafeed media with partial (FM2324 and FM1548) or total (M2324) microalgae/cyanobacteria replacement) were non‐cytotoxic to various fish cell lines and hydrolysed key nutritional compounds (casein, lipids, amylase and gelatin). Proteomic analysis of these ECP conditions revealed common structural and regulatory DNA‐associated proteins, while differentially expressed proteins were associated with amino acid metabolism and antioxidant system (FM2324 and FM1548) and chemotaxis system (M2324). The results highlight the potential of the selected postbiotics as feed additives for future in vivo studies, aligning with sustainable development for aquaculture.
Management of detected syphilis in pregnancy adheres to guideline recommendations, but the crisis of congenital syphilis persists
Authors: Moore Aoife , Dean Judith A. , Rowling Diane , Britton Sumudu , Fowler James A , Warzywoda Sarah , Safa Huda , Wu Mandy , Nourse Clare
Published: November 2024

Background

Infectious syphilis among women of reproductive age continues to rise in many countries including Australia, with a resultant increase in congenital syphilis. In response, new guidelines for management of syphilis in pregnancy were published in Queensland, Australia in 2018.

Aims

This study evaluates the management of women diagnosed with syphilis in pregnancy in South‐East Queensland (SEQ) after release of this guideline.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective review of notification data identified women in SEQ who had a positive syphilis serology during pregnancy, without evidence of adequate treatment prior to the pregnancy, between January 2019 and December 2021 inclusive. Maternal demographics and pregnancy details including syphilis staging, testing and management were extracted, with management assessed against the 2018 Queensland syphilis in pregnancy guideline.

Results

Of the 42 women identified, 79% were diagnosed in the first or second trimester, 69% had early‐stage syphilis at the time of diagnosis and 86% were asymptomatic at the time of diagnosis. All, including the eight (19%) Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander women identified, completed stage‐appropriate treatment with penicillin, 83% completed treatment four weeks prior to delivery and 60% achieved a four‐fold reduction in rapid plasma reagin at time of delivery.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest compliance with syphilis in pregnancy management recommendations has improved in SEQ since release of the 2018 guidelines. However, congenital syphilis rates continue to rise; further initiatives addressing barriers to timely testing and management of syphilis in pregnancy are urgently needed at both healthcare system levels and for individual women.
Inhibition of ROS1 activity with lorlatinib reversibly suppresses fertility in male mice
Authors: Oyama Yuki , Shimada Kentaro , Miyata Haruhiko , Iida‐Norita Rie , Emori Chihiro , Kamoshita Maki , Oura Seiya , Katayama Ryohei , Matzuk Martin M. , Ikawa Masahito
Published: November 2024

Background

Inhibition of sperm maturation in the epididymis is a promising post‐testicular strategy for short‐acting male contraceptives. It has been shown that ROS1, a receptor tyrosine kinase expressed in the epididymis, is essential for epididymal differentiation, sperm maturation, and male fertility in mice. However, it is unknown if inhibition of ROS1 suppresses male fertility reversibly.

Objectives

Our study aimed to investigate the effects of ROS1 inhibitor administration in male mice on sperm function and fertility.

Materials and Methods

We used lorlatinib, an anti‐cancer drug that inhibits ROS1. We treated 10‐week‐old sexually mature male mice with lorlatinib for 3 weeks and performed fertility tests, histological staining, in vitro fertilization, sperm motility analyses, and immunoblot analyses. We also performed the same analyses 3 weeks after discontinuing the lorlatinib treatment.

Results

Inhibition of ROS1 for 3 weeks suppressed male fertility. Lorlatinib‐treated mice showed no overt abnormalities in testicular sections, but epithelium maintenance of the epididymal initial segment was impaired. Accordingly, the levels of OVCH2, RNASE10, and ADAM28, which are expressed in the epididymis, decreased. Spermatozoa from the lorlatinib‐treated mice lost their ability to bind to the zona pellucida, and ADAM3 processing was abnormal. Sperm motility was also impaired in the lorlatinib‐treated mice. These impairments were recovered 3 weeks after discontinuing the drug treatment.

Discussion and Conclusion

Inhibition of ROS1 with lorlatinib suppressed sperm maturation and male fertility reversibly. Future exploration of molecules that specifically target ROS1 and the ROS1 pathway in the epididymis may lead to the development of safe and reversible male contraceptives.
BMSCs transplantation combined with LIPUS treatment improves erectile function through downregulation of IGFBP3 in rats with cavernosa injury
Authors: Lei Hongen , Han Hu , Li Jiaxing , Li Zelin , Li Renjie , Tian Long
Published: November 2024

Background

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is the most common type of sexual dysfunction, which seriously affects male reproductive health. Recently, stem cell therapy and low‐intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) have been applied in the treatment of ED, but the specific mechanism is still unclear.

Objectives

The study aims to investigate the effect and underlying mechanism of further LIPUS treatment on the basis of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) transplantation in the treatment of ED rats.

Materials and methods

We established a cavernosa injury‐induced ED rat model and injected BMSCs into the penile corpus cavernosum with or without LIPUS treatment every other day for three times. The survival rate of BMSCs, value of ICP/MAP, blood flow, the endothelial content, and expression of CD31 and ɑ‐SMA in the rat penis were investigated. Transcriptome analyses and in vitro assays of cell proliferation, migration, and tube formation were also performed.

Results

The results showed that LIPUS treatment significantly promoted the survival rate of BMSCs in the rat penis after 1, 7, and 14 days of final treatment. The values of ICP/MAP and blood flow in rats treated with BMSCs were significantly increased compared to the control group, and the values were further enhanced in rats treated with BMSCs plus LIPUS. The endothelial content and CD31 and ɑ‐SMA mRNA and protein expression in the BMSCs plus LIPUS group were remarkably higher than in other groups, indicating improved endothelial vascular function. Transcriptome analyses found that insulin‐like growth factor binding protein‐3 (IGFBP3) was remarkably downregulated in the BMSCs plus LIPUS group compared to the other two groups. In in vitro assays, LIPUS intervention significantly increased BMSCs proliferation and HUVECs migration, and HUVECs angiogenesis was improved after IGFBP3 siRNA transfection.

Conclusions

BMSCs transplantation combined with LIPUS treatment could improve erectile function in ED rats via downregulation of IGFBP3, which might be a proposed optimized strategy for the ED treatment.
Candidate genes did not have an impact on the risk of wheezing in children born preterm
Authors: Goth Fanny E. M. , Juul Klaus , Agertoft Lone , Söderhäll Cilla , Jørgensen I. Merete
Published: November 2024

Aim

Our aim was to investigate whether risk factors, including selected genetic variants, appeared with the same frequency in preterm‐born and term‐born children with respiratory symptoms.

Methods

We conducted an observational study on a cohort at Copenhagen University Hospital Hillerød, Denmark, consisting of 63 preterm‐born and 86 term‐born children who were included at birth and followed to 6 years of age. Odd ratios (OR) and 95% CIs were calculated.

Results

Valid genotyping data were obtained from 135 children and 126 and 64 parents completed questionnaires at the 1‐year and 6‐year follows‐ups, respectively. The C allele of rs3751972 was associated with an increased wheezing risk at 6 years of age in term‐born children, but not in preterm‐born children (OR 8.84, 95% CI 1.02–76.72, p = 0.05 versus OR 2.33, 95% CI 0.59–9.20, p = 0.23, respectively). At 1 year of age, preterm‐born children with respiratory symptoms were three times as likely to have parents who smoked than those without such symptoms (65% and 21%, respectively, p = 0.005).

Conclusion

Genetic variants known to affect the risk of respiratory symptoms did not seem to affect the risk of wheezing in preterm children. Parental smoking was a significant risk factor for respiratory symptoms.