bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Popular reporting in the public sector: a systematic literature review and reflections for future research
Authors: Joaquim Ricardo , Jorge Susana , Pimentel Liliana Marques
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to characterize, quantitatively and qualitatively, the existing research on popular reporting (PR) in the public sector, to synthesize and evaluate its current state. An overview of published research in this field will ultimately allow us to identify trends and opportunities for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper combines both quantitative and qualitative analyses of scientific papers selected from the Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus databases. It analyzes mainly the evolution of production over the years, areas of knowledge, authors and their affiliations, methodological approaches, countries and jurisdictions and research topics explored.

Findings

PR in the public sector is a topic still in an early stage of research (only 19 papers in the last eighteen years), by a very limited number of authors. Studies have mainly focused the USA and the local governments. Qualitative methods, namely case studies, have prevailed. Most of the empirical approaches have addressed possible characteristics and content of the PR. Non-empirical papers broadly have suggested PR as a tool to increase accountability.

Research limitations/implications

Given its potential contribution to accountability in the public sector, it seems important that PR becomes an institutionalized practice. For this, it is necessary to deeper understand and study this matter. The development of effective practice guidance and standards by regulators and the like, would be leveraged by the contribution of academics by increasing research on this topic. The research would benefit from more authors interested in the topic and an extension to countries other than the USA and Italy, and jurisdictions other than the local governments.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no study so far has sought to characterizing the existing research on PR in the public sector. This study contributes by identifying trends and gaps in this research field, proposing topics for future development, which can help academics to develop research that adds to the advancement of this field. Research gaps identified point to a need to empirically confirm the impact of PR on accountability. Also, exploring about the content of PR may in the future include, among other topics, the perspective of the politicians and public managers. In addition, studying the reasons why preparers do not adhere to PR and whether jurisdictions’ institutional factors influence this decision, can advance in understanding the issues of implementing PR in the context of public sector overall.
Adoption and impact of generative artificial intelligence on blockchain-enabled supply chain efficiency
Authors: Gao Cong , Keoy Kay-Hooi , Lim Ai-Fen
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the primary determinants influencing the acceptance of generative artificial intelligence (GAI) adoption within Blockchain-enabled environments. Further research will examine the impact of GAI adoption on supply chain efficiency (SCE) through the enhancement of Blockchain.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on innovation diffusion theory (IDT), this study used partial least square structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) to look into the hypotheses. The data were gathered via online questionnaires from employers of Chinese supply chain enterprises that have already integrated Blockchain.

Findings

The findings of this study demonstrate that relative advantages (RAs), compatibility, trialability and observability have a significant positive effect on GAI adoption, while complexity harms GAI adoption. Above all, the GAI adoption has significantly enhanced Blockchain, thus effectively improving SCE.

Practical implications

The outcomes from this study furnish enterprises and organizations with valuable insights to proficiently integrate GAI and Blockchain capability, optimize supply chain management and bolster market competitiveness. Also, this study will help accelerate the successful integration of business processes and attain Sustainability Development Goals 9, industrial growth and industrial diversification.

Originality/value

To the extent of the author’s knowledge, the current status of the GAI study remains largely exploratory, and there is limited empirical evidence on integrating Blockchain capability and GAI. This research bridges the knowledge gap by fully revealing the optimal integration of these two transformative technologies to leverage their potential advantages in supply chain management.
May I serve you? Navigating the employee embeddedness challenges in Indian social enterprises through servant leadership
Authors: K.S. Nivedhitha , G Angelin Vilma
Published: January 2025

Purpose

While servant leadership is widely recognised as a key factor in driving employee performance and various psychological outcomes, there remains a notable gap in understanding how it influences employee embeddedness through fostering harmonious relationships, particularly within energy-centric social enterprises. This study seeks to address this gap by investigating how servant leaders’ behaviours can effectively cultivate harmonious relationships, ultimately leading to increased employee embeddedness within organisations. Additionally, this study introduces a novel aspect by examining how an individual psychological trait, specifically a propensity for risk-taking, may influence the indirect effect of servant leadership on employee embeddedness.

Design/methodology/approach

To test this model, data from 309 respondents was collected through a three-wave survey design. The simple mediation analysis was performed using the PROCESS macro-Model 4, and the moderated mediation analysis was performed using the PROCESS macro-Model 8.

Findings

The findings indicate that harmonious passion serves as a significant mediator between servant leadership and employee embeddedness. Notably, this relationship is amplified among individuals with higher levels of the risk-taking trait.

Originality/value

The study addresses the research gaps in the interplay between individual traits and the psychological effectiveness of servant leadership in inducing harmonious passion, leading to socio-emotional outcomes such as employee embeddedness. Further, by addressing the issues related to employee retention in social enterprises, this research helps social entrepreneurs create a desirable societal impact without experiencing human resource hurdles. By doing so, this investigation significantly contributes to the research community, practitioners and society at large.
Understanding the role of gender diversity in ESG misconduct. The moderating effect of gender equality policies
Authors: García-Meca Emma , Martinez-Ferrero Jennifer
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate whether gender-diverse boards and top management teams (TMTs) reduce undesirable environmental social governance (ESG) behavior and whether a critical mass of women in leadership is necessary to influence this outcome. In addition, the authors study whether differences in the levels of national commitment to gender-equality policies affect the effectiveness of gender-diverse boards and management in curbing ESG misconduct.

Design/methodology/approach

This study examines the role of women directors and women executives in ESG misconduct using a European sample of analysis of 2,994 firm-year observations from 2015 to 2020.

Findings

The authors find that gender diversity effectively prevents ESG misconduct only in countries with strong national policies supporting gender equality. Specifically, women directors and executives significantly reduce ESG misconduct in these countries, demonstrating the complementary role of gender diversity and national equality policies. In addition, female chief executive officers are more likely to curb negative ESG practices in firms operating within gender-equal corporate environments, noting that female chief executive officers are not effective in reducing irresponsible ESG behavior when they are not supported by a critical mass of women directors or executives.

Practical implications

This paper finds novel evidence that the influence of female representation on ESG misconduct is not linear but conditional on the level of female proportion; women in the minority (usually under 3) can scarcely influence group decisions because their specific female attributes are only evident when the visibility and legitimacy of the female group are high enough. Firms led by female chief executive officers seem to reduce ESG misconduct, especially when their chief suites are above a critical threshold. But queen bee female chief executive officers are not effective in reducing adverse ESG activity if their boards and TMTs are not gender diverse; the joint effect of women in different hierarchical positions contributes to decreasing ESG failures.

Social implications

These findings are useful for policymakers because they show that although there is growing social concern about business gender equality and increasing regulatory efforts through soft/hard gender quotas, stakeholders will not completely benefit from firm gender diversity without national support for gender equality.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the sustainable development literature by examining the direct effects of gender diversity at multiple levels of a firm’s hierarchy (chief suite, board, TMTs), as well as addressing the gap between firm gender diversity and national gender equality policies as mechanisms to reduce ESG misconduct. It also explores the queen bee phenomenon, noting that female leaders in non-diverse organizations often adapt their leadership style to align with masculine corporate cultures.
Commentary on how occupational therapists, physiotherapists and speech and language therapists can benefit from Precision Teaching
Authors: Williams Bethan Mair
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to expand the arguments put forth by (Van and Kubina, 2024) and discuss Precision Teaching (PT)’s role within allied health professions (AHPs).

Design/methodology/approach

With services by AHPs becoming increasingly difficult to access, the need to accurately measure the efficacy of any input, however, limited, is a matter of priority, both for the sake of the service user and to ensure ongoing public funding of these professions. This commentary provides current clinical examples of the challenges faced by these professions.

Findings

The author discusses the use of PT as a way of ensuring the skills of AHPs are used as efficiently as possible.

Originality/value

Practical implications are discussed.
Commentary on “Improving quality of support and staff culture in supported living: a practice example of tier one positive behaviour support”
Authors: Cox Anthony
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This commentary aims to explore the theme of Tier 1 support within the UK context and abroad by the associated article by Hardiman and Harding (2025; this issue).

Design/methodology/approach

This commentary considers the literature regarding high-quality support as a Tier 1 approach within positive behaviour support (PBS) model in the UK and abroad. It also considers potential infrastructure that services could use to develop and sustain high-quality support.

Findings

This commentary highlights how the UK may be guided by the framework of school-wide PBS in the USA to inform the implementation of system-wide PBS in UK contexts.

Originality/value

This commentary explores how system-wide PBS can be applied.
Commentary on “using behavioural contracting to reduce behaviours that challenge in a school setting: Case studies” and an overview of token economies in school settings
Authors: Penney Heather Jane
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The primary purpose of this paper is to provide commentary on “Using Behavioural Contracting to Reduce Behaviours that Challenge in a School Setting: Case Studies” (Hawkins et al. 2025; This issue). The secondary purpose is to provide an introduction and overview of token economies and point and level systems to practitioners and stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper considers the use of token economies or point and level systems alongside behaviour contracts in school settings.

Findings

Behaviour contracts can be used successfully to determine how key components of token economies and point and level systems will be implemented. More research is needed on the use of behaviour contracts within token economies.

Originality/value

This review explores the components of token economies, including the selection of target behaviours, reinforcement pairing and the exchange process. It also highlights the flexibility of these systems to incorporate physical or symbolic tokens and reinforcer preferences. Indirect benefits, such as delaying reinforcement and fostering self-control, are discussed alongside practical implementation strategies. Advanced systems, like point and level systems, are examined for their ability to track progress over time, assist self-monitoring and fade interventions as learners progress towards greater independence.
Characteristics, care and support needs of older Victorians requiring a government‐funded Home Care Package: An observational study
Authors: McKittrick Rachel , Orellana Liliana , Manias Elizabeth , Hensher Martin , Hutchinson Alison M.
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To describe sociodemographic characteristics and comprehensive day‐to‐day care and support needs of older Victorians requiring government‐funded home‐based aged‐care, and to explore associations between vulnerability factors and complexity indicators in this population.

Methods

A population‐based observational study was conducted using de‐identified, routinely collected aged‐care assessment data for Victorians approved for a Home Care Package (HCP) between January 2019 and June 2022.

Results

The study population (n = 94,975 individuals), approved for one of four HCP levels (Levels 1 (5%), 2 (38%), 3 (34%) or 4 (24%)), was aged 82 years on average (SD 7.6), commonly born outside Australia (48%), with people of higher socio‐economic status more likely to be approved for a high‐level HCP. Advanced care and support needs such as for showering (53%) and dressing (43%) were common, with higher overall needs when cognitive and behavioural concerns such as short‐term memory loss (75%) or agitation (21%) were present. 79% reported at least one vulnerability factor such as being socially isolated, culturally and linguistically diverse, or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and 49% reported at least one complexity indicator. The three most prevalent complexity indicators were significant cognitive changes (29%), self‐neglect (17%) and emotional/mental health issues (11%), which were generally positively associated with vulnerability factors.

Conclusions

This population‐based study provides evidence of the diverse sociodemographics, and often advanced day‐to‐day mobility, functional, physical, cognitive, behavioural, psychological and psychosocial care and support needs of people requiring home‐based aged‐care. It also highlights the multifaceted complexities within this population. Results could inform home care service‐delivery models and workforce skill‐mix requirements to efficiently and safely meet these needs.
“The Return of my Grandfather Napoleon”: Ancestor worship, impiety, and collective possession in North Honduras
Authors: Perdomo Marcela
Published: January 2025

This paper analyzes Dolores's case of collective spirit possession as a paroxysmic form of possession idiom, serving as a powerful and creative internal mechanism that both safeguards and revitalizes the core structure of ancestor worship. Drawing on my ethnographic research in North Honduras since 2009, my study reveals that rather than leading to the erosion of possession rituals, entropic forces, such as resistance, modernity, and impiety serve as vital resources, reinforcing the foundations of ancestor worship. This paper explores possession idioms and striking events, such as contagion, abduction, dramatization, illness, and death to highlight the resilience of a possession‐based religion as a self‐sustaining total social system rooted in “tradition,” yet shaped by a dynamic interplay of historical, cultural, and personal experiences. While traditional interpretations of spirit possession have viewed possession cults as forms of protest against hegemonic power—“a weapon of the weak” used to gain respect and process trauma—I suggest that spirit possession is multifaceted, ambiguous and underdetermined, operating within a social theater where critique, social irony, impiety, historical consciousness, and the carnivalesque intersect.
The dawn of division: For an anthropological theory of consciousness through contemplative ethnography
Authors: Divino Federico
Published: January 2025

The article delves into the need for an anthropological exploration of consciousness in the modern context. While anthropology's core focus has always been the study of the human subject, this study argues that consciousness has emerged as a fundamental aspect that underpins all human phenomena. The historical trajectory of anthropology, from its positivist leanings to contemporary shifts like the phenomenological and ontological turns, is examined to highlight the evolving perspective on subjectivity and alterity. The author's ethnographic studies, particularly within the realm of contemplative practices like traditional Buddhist meditation and mindfulness, reveal a crucial connection between consciousness and anthropological inquiry, challenging the inherent bias and dualistic thinking within anthropology, particularly concerning the dichotomy of self and other, evident even in studies of meditation. The proposal of “mindful ethnography” is introduced as a means to transcend this dualism, drawing inspiration from Buddhist philosophy. The study presents consciousness as a central concern for anthropology, calling for a reevaluation of traditional frameworks and the adoption of a more mindful and non‐dualistic approach to anthropological research. Through a thorough investigation of consciousness, the article seeks to provide a nuanced understanding of human experience and reshape the trajectory of anthropological inquiry in a modern context.
A Case of Robot‐Assisted Pylorus‐Preserving Pancreatoduodenectomy for Branch‐Duct Intraductal Papillary Mucinous Neoplasms Complicated With an Annular Pancreas
Authors: Hayasaki Aoi , Kuriyama Naohisa , Usui Miki , Nagata Motonori , Kaluba Benson , Sakamoto Tatsuya , Komatsubara Haruna , Maeda Koki , Shinkai Toru , Noguchi Daisuke , Ito Takahiro , Gyoten Kazuyuki , Fujii Takehiro , Iizawa Yusuke , Tanemura Akihiro , Murata Yasuhiro , Kishiwada Masashi , Mizuno Shugo
Published: January 2025

Annular pancreas is a rare congenital anatomical anomaly, in which the pancreatic parenchyma surrounds the descending duodenum. Generally, annular pancreas is diagnosed on the basis of symptoms associated with complications of peptic ulcer, pancreatitis, cholelithiasis, and rarely, malignant tumors. Herein, we report an 84‐year‐old man for whom, during hospitalization for a urinary tract infection, pancreatic cystic lesions and an annular pancreas were noted incidentally on computed tomography. These findings led to a diagnosis of intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms on further examination. He safely underwent robot‐assisted pylorus‐preserving pancreatoduodenectomy, with an operative time of 478 min and blood loss of 37 g. He was discharged on postoperative day 8 without postoperative complications. In conclusion, it is important to note that, in this case, intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms were detected before they became malignant, and minimally invasive surgery was performed safely despite the anatomical anomaly of an annular pancreas.
Use of drones in Indo‐Pak cross border terrorism: Challenges, regulations and evolving responses
Authors: Kumar Ankit , Vishwanathan Arun
Published: January 2025

The proliferation of drones to states and non‐state actors has created newer challenges for national security & border management. Globally, drones are being used by security forces as force multipliers in military operations, while non‐state actors are employing drones for carrying out terror strikes, smuggling arms, narcotics, and by citizen journalists and other groups for disseminating information on government crackdown on public protests. The paper traces the increasing usage of drones in India, especially since 2019, while also analyzing the multifarious challenges faced by Indian security forces and law enforcement agencies from the use of drones by non‐state actors. It analyses the rules and regulations that have been put in place in India to manage the spread of UAS/drones in the country while not stifling the domestic manufacturing. Finally, the paper explores the possible systems that have been explored by India and other countries to counter UAS/drones and the challenges posed in effectively countering drones in border regions.
Challenges in Care Provision for Children and Adolescents With Differences of Sex Development
Authors: Atlas Gabby , Hanna Chloe , Tan Tiong Yang , Tucker Elena , Ayers Katie , Sinclair Andrew , O'Connell Michele A.
Published: January 2025

Objectives

The ideal model of care for individuals with Differences of Sex Development (DSD) continues to evolve, with multiple models proposed. This study aimed to explore current care models for individuals with DSD in Australia and New Zealand (NZ) and to identify clinician perceptions of gaps and barriers in current practice.

Methods

Cross‐sectional anonymous online questionnaire, conducted via Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap) software. Clinicians involved in the diagnosis and management of individuals with DSD in Australia and NZ were contacted through multimodal recruitment approaches. Themes included demographics of respondents, preferred terminology, composition of the DSD multidisciplinary team (MDT) and availability of a database.

Results

Seventy‐nine eligible participants from centers in all states and territories of Australia and NZ commenced the survey with 63 complete responses. Almost One‐third (31%) of participants are not currently part of a DSD MDT meeting at their center. While three quarters (76%) of respondents identified changes to DSD care over the past 5 years, three quarters (75%) also identified barriers to current care provision. Only 20% of respondents reported psychology being a current part of their MDT and 70% identified psychology as a desired but missing part of their team.

Conclusions

Responses to the survey identify gaps and barriers to DSD care across Australia and NZ, particularly a lack of psychosocial supports. Current models fall short of international recommendations and services need to explore the reasons for these gaps further.
A Pilot Study of the Usefulness of a Strength‐Based, Systemic and Trauma‐Informed Training Programme for Early Help Practitioners
Authors: van Roosmalen Marc , Parrish Molly , Panton Eve
Published: January 2025

There is limited evidence for strength‐based early help (EH) frameworks within the UK, despite multiple government funded reviews highlighting the need for them. Van Roosmalen developed a practice framework grounded in systemic, trauma‐informed and resilience principles, which comprises of three dimensions: resilient families, resilient practitioners and resilient multiagency systems. Nineteen EH practitioners were interviewed in focus groups about their perception of how the training programme affected their practice with families. Thematic analysis of focus group transcriptions established that it produced improvements in all three dimensions. Overarching themes highlighted a shift in understanding the relational and interactional nature of difficulties within families. The participants identified the training to have a positive effect on their resilience and ability to manage the service pressures when working with families with complex needs. Finally, participants reported the need for the wider professional network to be familiar with the practice framework for an effective and resilient system, the third dimension of the model. This study provides new evidence to support a strengths‐based model of EH training and practice.
The Internationalization of Deterrence: The Case Study of Iran's Biaxial Deterrence in the Middle East
Authors: Baizidi Rahim
Published: January 2025

The concept of deterrence is central to both international relations and strategic studies, as it endeavors to establish peace through the “threat to reciprocal retaliation.” The Cold War era as the golden age of nuclear deterrence revealed that even the most powerful states are enthusiastic to transfer part of their strategic and military capabilities, such as nuclear weapons, to other states to countering potential threats. By presenting the concept of “internationalization of deterrence,” this article addresses the implementation of Iran's biaxial deterrence in the Middle East. Internationalizing deterrence entails the transfer of military and security capabilities from a deterrent power to allied and cooperative nations, thereby enhancing both the effectiveness and credibility of deterrence measures. The internationalization of deterrence encompasses a variety of strategies, including nuclear sharing, the creation of military bases in foreign countries, the backing of allied groups, and the overseas deployment of missiles. Biaxial deterrence is also an element of Iran's internationalized deterrence strategy, focusing on two interconnected dimensions: aligned groups—protégés—and advancing of their conventional weapons capabilities in the Middle East. Through internationalization of its conventional deterrence, Iran has sought to enhance its deterrent capabilities and credibility while minimizing costs and maximizing effectiveness.
Transcending Boundaries: Reimagining the Possibilities of Scholarship
Authors: Prasad Ajnesh
Published: January 2025

In this editorial, I introduce Transcending Boundaries—the newest section of Gender, Work & Organization. Transcending Boundaries aims to reimagine the possibilities of scholarship. It is intended to be experimental, subversive, and provocative—all the while, unapologetically presenting ideas that dislocate the hegemonic narratives, which currently structure knowledge in management and organization studies. This section complements the rich traditions of epistemological plurality that is palpable in Gender, Work ‐ Organization’s three‐decade publication history. It aims to resist conformity, embrace reflexivity, and call for courage in scholarship. I conclude the editorial by providing examples of the types of work—in terms of format, genre, and creativity—that may be suitable for Transcending Boundaries and discussing governance matters and procedural issues related to the section.
Higher Education Leadership Agency in Mainstreaming Gender Equality: Insights From Universities in Kazakhstan
Authors: Kataeva Zumrad , Durrani Naureen , Rakhimzhanova Aray , Shakirova Svetlana
Published: January 2025

This qualitative study explores the perspectives of senior leadership on gender equality within higher education institutions (HEIs) in Kazakhstan, addressing a gap in the literature on the agency of senior leaders in mainstreaming gender equality in post‐Soviet contexts. Kazakhstan is a significant case due to its high ranking on gender indicators in Central Asia and its unique blend of modernization and traditional gender discourses. We interviewed 13 leaders across 10 universities to analyze how they perceive the relationship between gender and education and their potential role in advancing gender equality. Utilizing Butler's theory of performativity, our analysis reveals that senior leaders disregard structural or institutional gender‐related concerns. They tend to uphold and embody traditional gender norms and attribute existing gender inequalities to cultural norms which limit their agency. While leaders acknowledge the role of higher education in promoting gender equality, they perceive gender issues as resistant to change, which creates obstacles to effective gender mainstreaming. The findings provide insights into reimagining gender mainstreaming strategies in HEIs in post‐Soviet contexts and beyond.
Comparative Analysis of Acquired Resistance to Bortezomib in Prostate Cancer Cells Using Proteomic and Bioinformatic Tools
Authors: Seker Semih , Sahin Betul , Yerlikaya Azmi
Published: January 2025

Chemotherapy is a potent tool against cancer, but drug resistance remains a major obstacle. To combat this, understanding the molecular mechanisms behind resistance in cancer cells and the protein expression changes driving these mechanisms is crucial. Targeting the Ubiquitin‐Proteasome System (UPS) has proven effective in treating multiple myeloma and shows promise for solid tumours. Despite initial success with the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib, acquired resistance soon after treatment poses a significant challenge to its efficacy. In this study, we explored proteins potentially involved in acquired resistance to bortezomib using label‐free nLC–MS/MS proteomic analysis. The investigation revealed 299 proteins with notable differences in expression levels in the bortezomib‐resistant PC3 prostate cancer cell line. Using bioinformatics tools, we illustrated the top 10 gene ontology (GO) processes [e.g., translational initiation (p = 5.964E‐10), CRD‐mediated mRNA stabilisation (p = 1.636E‐5), and hydrogen ion transmembrane transport (p = 6.46E‐5)] and the top 20 KEGG [e.g., metabolic pathways (p = 7.601E‐13), biosynthesis of amino acids (p = 3.834E‐12), and chemical carcinogenesis—reactive oxygen species (p = 1.891E‐4)] and REACTOME [e.g., metabolism (p = 4.182E‐21), translation (p = 9.484E‐18), and Nonsense‐Mediated Decay (NMD) (p = 1.829E‐8)] pathways in the PC3‐resistant cells. We further refined our results by comparing them with globally validated TCGA datasets. We correlated the 299 proteins identified through proteomic analysis with tumour aggressiveness and resistance by comparing them with the TCGA nodal metastasis N0 vs. N1 datasets using the UALCAN portal and identified 37 proteins consistent with our results. We believe that a combination of bortezomib with chemotherapeutics targeting these proteins could be effective in overcoming the resistance developed against bortezomib.
Therapeutic Ultrasound Modulates Cell Proliferation and Proinflammatory Cytokine Levels in Osteoarthritic Chondrocytes
Authors: Yilmaz Ahmet Çagdas , Toktas Hasan , Celik Sefa , Sen Serkan
Published: January 2025

The development and progression of osteoarthritis (OA) are believed to involve inflammation. This study aimed to investigate the effects of applying therapeutic ultrasound (US) to human osteoarthritic chondrocytes in continuous and pulsed modes on cell proliferation and proinflammatory cytokine levels. Human osteoarthritic chondrocytes (HC‐OA 402OA‐05a) were proliferated in appropriate media and then seeded into culture plates. The plates were grouped and exposed to underwater continuous, pulsed and control US at 0.1 W/cm2 and 1 MHz for 10 min daily for 10 days. Cell viability/proliferation was assessed using the MTT assay, total protein was measured by ELISA and cytokine levels per protein were determined. Cells were photographed using microscopic analysis. Both continuous and pulsed US groups showed a significant increase in viability compared to the control group. No significant difference was found between the continuous and pulsed US groups for IL‐1β, TNF‐α and IL‐6 levels. Both groups showed significant cytokine reduction compared to the control group. For IL‐17 and IL‐32 levels, both US groups had reduced cytokine levels compared to the control group, but the results were not significant. Underwater US at 0.1 W/cm2 and 1 MHz stimulated cell proliferation and reduced proinflammatory cytokine levels in osteoarthritic chondrocyte cell cultures. This study extensively focused on proinflammatory IL levels, and the meaningful results may inspire future in vivo/in vitro studies. While adapting in vitro data to in vivo conditions poses challenges, our results could guide future in vivo studies and clinical applications.
Serum Nutrients, Periodontitis and Biological Ageing
Authors: Nguyen L. M. , Tran A. V. , Kincheloe J. P. , Ebersole J. E.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Telomeres are nucleotide sequences found at the end of chromosomes, and their shortening is associated with chronological and biological ageing, oxidative stress and malnutrition. Shorter telomeres have been shown to be associated with periodontitis. Dietary nutrients are also influential factors in the aetiology and progression of periodontitis and other chronic inflammatory diseases. We tested the hypothesis that blood serum levels of folate, vitamin D, vitamin E, cis‐β‐carotene and/or β‐cryptoxanthin are associated with telomere lengths and periodontitis and that these relationships are modified by factors that also affect periodontitis (e.g., age, sex, smoking, race/ethnicity).

Methods

Laboratory and demographic data collected by the NHANES 1999–2002 survey of 10,793 study participants were analysed. The data included age (binned every 10 years starting at age 30), race/ethnicity (White, Black, Hispanic), sex (male, female), periodontitis (none/mild, moderate/severe), vitamin levels (low, medium, high), telomere lengths (base pairs) and smoking (yes, no). Statistical analyses were performed with ANOVA tests.

Results

Periodontitis was significantly associated with vitamin D, vitamin E and cis‐β‐carotene. Telomere length was significantly associated with vitamin E and cis‐β‐carotene. There were statistically significant interactions between the following vitamins and covariates on telomere length: folate and sex, vitamin D and periodontitis, vitamin D and race/ethnicity and vitamin E and sex.

Conclusions

Certain blood nutrients may disrupt biological ageing, with periodontitis as a co‐morbidity. Some of these relationships are modified by demographic variables such as sex and race/ethnicity.
Advancing surgical education: An evaluation of laparoscopic simulation training for medical students
Authors: Zhang Wenbin , Qu Lijun , Zilundu Prince Last Mudenda , Xu Yuanyuan , Chen Meiying , Yu Guangyin , Zheng Xuefeng , Guo Guoqing , Zhang Jifeng
Published: January 2025

Objective

To examine the medical students' awareness of laparoscopic surgery as well as assess the perceived importance of laparoscopic simulation training, and its impact on students' confidence, career aspirations, proficiency, spatial skills, and physical tolerance.

Design

Descriptive and comparative study using pre‐ and post‐training assessments.

Setting

Simulation training sessions centred on laparoscopic surgery techniques.

Participants

Medical students in year three (n = 49) participated in laparoscopic simulation training sessions.

Results

Before the simulation training, 85.7% of students were unaware of laparoscopy, with females being less familiar than males (96.3% vs. 72.8%). 85.7% believed mastering laparoscopy was crucial before training, and 81.6% believed simulation training could enhance surgical skills. A disparity existed in this belief between the sexes, with 91% of males and 74.1% of females seeing the value in such training for skill improvement. Pretraining, males (54.5%) were more confident than females (26%) in mastering laparoscopy. Post‐training, confidence increased for both groups, and the percentage of students wishing to pursue a surgical career also rose from 50% to 72.7%. Despite initial disparities in the time spent on training modules between males and females, both groups achieved similar proficiency levels by the end of the training. Although females initially lagged in spatial awareness and skills, post‐training results showed significant improvement, matching their male counterparts. 26.5% of students experienced physical fatigue post‐training, with a higher percentage of females (33.3%) reporting fatigue than males (18.2%). Regarding concentration during simulations, 81.8% of males could maintain focus compared to 48.2% of females.

Conclusions

Laparoscopic simulation training effectively improved the understanding, confidence, and surgical skills of medical students, with evident benefits in shaping their career aspirations. While both genders exhibited significant gains, female students faced challenges in terms of physical tolerance and initial spatial awareness. However, their post‐training achievements mirrored those of their male peers, highlighting the effectiveness and importance of such simulation training programmes.
Accuracy of Guided Dual Technique in Esthetic Crown Lengthening: A Prospective Case‐Series Study
Authors: Enfedaque‐Prat Meritxell , González‐Barnadas Albert , Jorba‐García Adrià , Vilarrasa Javi , Toledano‐Serrabona Jorge , Figueiredo Rui , Valmaseda‐Castellón Eduard , Camps‐Font Octavi
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a digitally guided dual technique during esthetic crown lengthening surgery. In addition, patient satisfaction and patient‐reported outcomes were assessed.

Materials and Methods

A prospective case series study was conducted. Cone‐beam computed tomography and intraoral scans were used to design surgical guides, which were manufactured via 3D printing. The primary outcome was surgical accuracy, assessed by measuring the distance between the planned and final gingival margin positions using overlapping intraoral scans. Secondary outcomes included clinical crown length, gingival margin stability, pain, and patient satisfaction. Statistical analyses were performed using multilevel linear regression models, with significance set at p < 0.05.

Results

Ten participants (87 teeth) were treated without complications. The mean duration of surgery was 66.5 min. The overall absolute deviation was 0.56 mm (95% CI: 0.48 to 0.65) at 6 months postoperatively. Clinical crown length increased significantly from baseline to the end of surgery (p < 0.001), with minimal reduction at 6 months (p = 0.479). Patient‐reported outcomes indicated mild postoperative pain and high satisfaction with esthetic results.

Conclusions

The digitally guided dual technique for esthetic crown lengthening surgery is safe and effective, providing highly accurate outcomes. The technique also results in excellent patient satisfaction.

Clinical Significance

The use of digitally guided dual techniques for ACL surgery enhances precision and safety, leading to highly accurate outcomes and improved patient satisfaction. This approach could be beneficial in clinical settings to ensure better esthetic and functional results.
Use of Ozone to Reduce the Proportion of Mesophilic and Psychrotrophic Bacteria Among Aquatic Organisms: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: de Arruda Luciano Carlos , Porto Yuri Duarte , Vieira Bruno Serpa , dos Santos Fogaça Fabiola Helena , Castro Vinícius Silva , de Souza Figueiredo Eduardo Eustáquio , Savay‐da‐Silva Luciana Kimie
Published: January 2025

Mesophilic and psychrotrophic bacteria are agents of spoilage in aquatic organisms. Aquaculture aims to provide safe and nutritious foods from microbiological, physico–chemical, and sensory perspectives. Ozone (O3) is a gas used as an efficient antimicrobial agent for inactivating microorganisms in various foods. Therefore, this study aimed to determine whether O3 is effective in reducing or eliminating mesophilic and psychrotrophic bacteria in fish and seafood. To this end, a systematic review was performed to evaluate the data obtained from published primary studies. Articles were retrieved from the PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and SciELO databases, and papers published between 2002 and 2024 were considered. A total of 1415 studies were identified, 11 of which met all eligibility criteria and were included in the meta‐analysis. The results indicated that O3 reduced mesophilic and psychrotrophic bacteria counts by 0.31 log CFU g−1 in fish and seafood. Significant heterogeneity persisted in the data set even after separation into subgroups, indicating that the studies were significantly diverse in terms of methodology. Therefore, the data obtained in this meta‐analysis indicates low inactivation of the microorganisms studied using O3. However, more research into the O3 treatment of aquatic organisms should be encouraged, since the included studies had methodological variations in the forms of O3 used, and investigated species, since all species have their own specificities.
South African Dietitians' Knowledge and Perceptions of Food‐Drug Interactions and Factors Affecting It
Authors: Megaw Christie , Olivier Natascha , Cordier Werner
Published: January 2025

Background

Dietitians ensure that patients receive tailored medical nutrition therapy to integrate with pharmacotherapy safely. Dietitians require a pharmacological understanding to prevent detrimental food‐drug interactions (FDIs). The study investigated dietitians' knowledge of FDIs and their information sourcing.

Methods

A cross‐sectional online survey was conducted among registered South African dietitians to assess their knowledge of FDIs, the impact of food timing on drugs, and their sources of FDI information. The questionnaire included demographics, a 12‐question knowledge assessment, and a qualitative section on information sourcing. Data from 70 valid responses, collected between 2 August and 19 September 2022, were analysed statistically using analysis of variance and chi‐square tests to determine whether associations between knowledge scores and demographic factors were present.

Results and Discussion

Out of 70 responses, most participants were female (97.1%) and 47.1% had over 10 years of experience. The participants primarily worked in the areas of dietetics related to chronic and lifestyle‐related disorders (75.7%) across various work settings, including in‐patient care (32.8%), out‐patient care (41.4%), and multi‐disciplinary team environments (31.4%). Although not generalisable due to the low response rate (70 out of the 304 required responses for a 5% margin of error), knowledge deficiencies were observed. A cumulative mean knowledge score of 38.3% was observed, with gaps identified for fundamental FDIs. Drug package inserts (55.7%) and clinical websites (68.6%) were primarily used to source information regarding FDIs; however, the former did not always provide sufficient information. Participants proposed that knowledge deficiencies could be overcome with further education, and the development and/or use of mobile applications or summarisations that elaborate on FDIs.

Conclusion

Knowledge gaps and uncertainties were identified regarding fundamental FDIs; however, further research is needed to pinpoint the specific sources of these deficiencies and the factors influencing them. To improve dietitians' knowledge of FDIs and ensure alignment with their scope and standard of practice, undergraduate curricula should be bolstered and benchmarked to national needs to facilitate graduate development, and additional learning opportunities provided, such as webinars and continuing professional development (CPD), to allow for continuous education for practicing dietitians.
Minority stress and structural stigma predict well‐being in European LGBTQ+ parents
Authors: Siegel Magdalena , Steyrl David , Goldberg Abbie E. , Nicholson Andrew A. , Zemp Martina
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study tested whether exposure to minority stress and structural stigma across multiple levels of the family system were associated with two indicators of well‐being (life satisfaction, depressive symptoms) in LGBTQ+ parents across 19 European countries.

Background

Minority stress (i.e., identity‐based stress resulting from systemic oppression) and structural stigma (i.e., hostile legal environments, prejudicial social attitudes) are heterogeneous, yet well‐documented risk factors of reduced well‐being within LGBTQ+ populations. However, a comprehensive assessment stratifying both concepts across multiple levels of the family system (i.e., the individual, couple, and family level) is lacking for LGBTQ+ parents.

Method

Using data from the EU LGBTI Survey 2019, a sample of 3808 LGBTQ+ parents from 19 European countries was analyzed. Associations between self‐reported minority stress indicators, objective structural stigma indicators, sociodemographic predictors, and well‐being were tested using non‐linear, machine learning‐based techniques (gradient boosted decision tree models).

Results

Supporting preregistered hypotheses, exposure to individual‐level minority stress and individual‐ and family‐level structural stigma predicted life satisfaction and depressive symptoms. Couple‐level minority stress predicted life satisfaction, but not depressive symptoms, and family‐level minority stress predicted neither. Trans parents and those facing economic burdens were particularly vulnerable to low well‐being.

Conclusions

Exposure to minority stress and structural stigma, particularly within highly stigmatizing regions, are risk factors for LGBTQ+ parents' well‐being. Future research should examine the role of family‐level minority stress using validated measures.
Fusarium spp. Associated With Leaf Blight of Hosta (Hosta plantaginea L.) in China
Authors: Jiao Chenyang , Zhang Li , Xu Xi , Yang Xilang , Guo Lifeng , Wang Xiangjing , Xiang Wensheng , Zhao Junwei
Published: January 2025

Hosta (Hosta plantaginea L.) is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the family Liliaceae. It is widely cultivated for its decorative foliage and dainty, colourful flowers. Fusarium is a globally prevalent plant pathogen. During 2020–2021, 116 Fusarium isolates were isolated from 300 hosta leaf blight samples collected from eight cities in China, and 65 representative isolates we selected for further study. The 65 isolates were identified based on the concatenated sequences of the tef1 and rpb2 genes, which grouped them into 12 Fusarium species, including F. acuminatum (27.59%), F. verticillioides (15.52%), F. oxysporum (10.34%), F. armeniacum (10.34%), F. ipomoeae (8.62%), F. proliferatum (6.9%), F. subglutinans (6.9%), F. humuli (3.45%), F. petersiae (3.45%), F. brachygibbosum (3.45%), F. graminearum (1.72%), and F. compactum (1.72%). Pathogenicity tests demonstrated that all Fusarium isolates exhibited high pathogenicity towards hosta leaves. Whereas in F. proliferatum isolates were found to be the most pathogenic. All Fusarium species obtained in this study are first reported as the causal agents of hosta leaf blight in China except F. oxysporum and F. ipomoeae. The current research offers insights into disease management, phylogenetic relationships amongst Fusarium species and the diversity of Fusarium species associated with hosta leaf blight.