bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Corporate anticorruption disclosure and earnings management: the moderating role of board gender diversity
Authors: Githaiga Peter Nderitu
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Corruption and manipulation of earnings remain a serious concern all over the globe. In addition, corporate disclosure of anticorruption information is still in its infancy in developing and emerging countries. Studies have also highlighted the importance of female directors in corporate disclosures and mitigating earnings management (EM). Therefore, the purpose of this study is to examine the moderating effect of board gender diversity on the relationship between anticorruption disclosure (ACD) on EM among listed firms in the East Africa Community (EAC) partners states.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used an ACD check list developed from recent studies and the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) 205 on anticorruption reporting standards. The sample comprising of 58 firms listed across EAC partner states stock/securities exchanges over the period between 2013 and 2022. The hypotheses were tested using the fixed effect regression model.

Findings

This study found low disclosure of anticorruption practices among the selected firms. The regression results revealed that ACD and board gender diversity negatively affected EM. In addition, the study found that board gender diversity moderated the relationship between ACD and EM. The study used the system generalized method of moment (GMM) model to address endogeneity concerns.

Practical implications

The study will help policymakers and accounting standards setters in determining if mandatory ACD can reduce harmful EM practices. Furthermore, the findings can be helpful to corporate governance standards setters in deciding whether to implement gender quotas to enhance the effect of ACD on EM.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first paper that empirically examines the effect of ACD on EM in EAC. The study further adds to the empirical literature by assessing the moderating effect of board gender diversity, which has not been examined by earlier studies on ACD and EM.
Breaking the bias: perspectives of a WiSTEM2D programme inspiring female undergraduates for a technical future
Authors: Travers Marie , Dwivedi Anushree , Richardson Ita , Crowley Katie , Patten James Vincent
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This is an account of student experiences with the 2020/2021 Johnson & Johnson (J&J) Women in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Manufacturing and Design (WiSTEM2D) intervention programme at the University of Limerick (UL).

Design/methodology/approach

The WiSTEM2D programme supports female undergraduate students undertaking science, technology, engineering, mathematics, manufacturing and design (STEM2D) courses, helping them develop and grow in their degrees, research and beyond.

Findings

During the programme, data were gathered from students in the form of qualitative information, which was used to analyse perceptions of the programme. This analysis revealed that students found the WiSTEM2D programme beneficial to them and that it improved their confidence levels, career knowledge and overall networking abilities.

Originality/value

WiSTEM2D is one of several initiatives globally that are attempting to empower and encourage women to be active in STEM.
Benefits or costs? Exploring the international expansion process of the business group
Authors: Wang Shan-Huei
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Drawing on the time compression diseconomies perspective and business network theory, this study examines how the international expansion of a business group’s pace, scope and rhythm affects its performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Panel data (1999–2013) from the top 100 Taiwanese business groups investing in globalization were collected.

Findings

The results show that international pace and rhythm have an inverse U-shaped relationship with business group performance, while the relationship between international scope and business group performance is U-shaped. This study highlights that international expansion is multidimensional and nonlinear and that the factors that shape nonlinear relationships between international processes and performance are different. Furthermore, family group involvement positively moderates the link between international scope and performance and negatively affects the relationship between international pace and performance. However, no significant effect is observed between rhythm and performance. High family business group involvement mitigates the impact of outsiders’ liability and managerial costs; moreover, it enhances the positive effects of location-specific advantages and business network resources.

Originality/value

This study combined the time compression diseconomies perspective and business network theory to explain why and how internationalization may not always lead to good performance by examining the effects of different international expansion processes and the interactive effect of family group involvement.
Examining the extended full-range leadership model and leadership effectiveness in remote work contexts: the moderating role of VUCA environments
Authors: Hüttemann Dominik , Härtel Tobias Marc , Müller Julia
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The COVID-19 pandemic has amplified the importance of effectively leading a remote workforce in volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous (VUCA) environments. This study examines the effectiveness of transformational–transactional leadership (Full-Range Leadership Model, FRLM) and its recent extension of instrumental leadership (eFRLM) in remote work contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

We surveyed 529 remote working followers, providing perceptions on (1) their leaders’ manifestation of eFRLM dimensions and factors, (2) their leaders’ leadership effectiveness and (3) their organizational environment as VUCA.

Findings

Results show that instrumental leadership represents a strongly effective leadership dimension in remote work contexts, explaining unique variance beyond transformational–transactional leadership. Moreover, VUCA environments moderated the association between eFRLM leadership behaviors and leadership effectiveness, with instrumental leadership being particularly effective in more pronounced VUCA environments and transformational–transactional leadership being less effective.

Originality/value

Overall, instrumental leadership appears crucial to consider when predicting leadership effectiveness in virtual and uncertain contexts.
Volunteer tourism in farm communities: interrelationships between capital, empowerment and sustainability
Authors: Nien Tran Tuan , Thuong Ho Tran Thuong
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Only a small number of studies have analysed the sustainability of the socio-cultural impacts of volunteer tourism (VT). Existing research tends to focus on volunteers, the host communities and organisations, while the interconnectedness between theories (of capitals) and concepts (i.e. empowerment and sustainability) have received minimal attention. Sustainability is considered both an effect of empowerment and a means for achieving it. Drawing on the perspectives and theoretical concepts related to multiple forms of capital, this paper aims to take an interpretive stance to examine socio-cultural impacts.

Design/methodology/approach

This research draws on 37 semi-structured interviews conducted with stakeholders on the perceived socio-cultural impacts of VT on two farm communities in Vietnam. A qualitative thematic coding analysis was used to identify themes that explain the perceptions of the stakeholders within the host communities.

Findings

The findings of this study were divided into the nine themes of educational effects, job opportunities, cultural exchanges, relationships, health, awareness of environmental conservation, physical changes, promoting local products and tourism and community resource development. The research provides additional insights into the interconnectedness between different types of capital, empowerment and sustainability of socio-cultural impacts.

Practical implications

VT organisations should provide more opportunities for local residents to become involved in decision-making regarding volunteer activities and to share their voices and concerns about how the VT programmes are set up. The government could provide support services or training and skills to locals after the volunteers leave, which would be significant in developing and maintaining the sustainability of impacts on host communities.

Originality/value

This research creates a model for connecting capital to sustainability and empowerment to study the socio-cultural impacts of VT.
The Effect of the Federal Judicial System on Public Enforcement: Evidence from SEC Enforcement Actions
Authors: JIA YANRONG
Published: August 2024

This study examines whether the efficiency of federal district courts affects the likelihood of SEC enforcement. The results indicate that the SEC is less likely to initiate enforcement actions against firms in less efficient federal district courts. In addition, the study examines the implications of court efficiency for firms’ financial reporting quality (FRQ). The evidence suggests that firms residing in more efficient federal districts have higher FRQ and the effect is stronger in subsamples with weak private enforcement regimes. Additional analysis of the choice of venue suggests that the SEC's decision to file in the District Court for D.C. is not affected by local court efficiency. Collectively, this study highlights the importance of an efficient federal judicial system for public enforcement.
Principles and challenges of whole cell microbial biosensors in the food industry
Authors: Mendoza América Selene Gaona , Acosta María Fernanda Mendoza , Sánchez Julio Armando Massange , Vázquez Luz Edith Casados
Published: August 2024

Whole cell microbial biosensors (WCMB) are mostly genetically modified microorganisms used to detect target molecules as indicators of biological and chemical contaminants as well as in the identification of compounds of interest in the food industry. The specificity and sensitivity of these biosensors are achieved through the design of genetic circuits that make use of genetic sequences such as promoters, terminators, genes encoding regulatory proteins or reporter proteins, among others. Despite the advances of WCMBs for their application, significant challenges are faced, such as cell stability, regulatory restrictions, and the need to optimize response times so that they can be a competitive detection tool in the market. This review explores the technological progress, potential and limitations of WCMBs in the food industry, starting by reviewing the operating principles of biosensors. The importance of selecting appropriate chassis cells and the integration of recognition elements and transducers to maximize their effectiveness in the detection of contaminants and compounds of interest in the food industry is highlighted.
Extension of shelf life of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) by using a coating of polyhydroxybutyrate‐carboxymethyl cellulose‐pectin‐thymol conjugate
Authors: Poosarla Venkata Giridhar , Bisoi Suchitra , Siripurapu Aruna , Rathod Baliram Gurunath , Ramadoss Aparna , Kilaparthi Suresh , Shivshetty Nagaveni , Rajagopalan Gobinath
Published: August 2024

This study targets explicitly finding an alternative to petroleum‐based plastic films that burden the environment, which is a high priority. Hence, polymeric films were prepared with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) (4%), pectin (2%), and polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) (0.5%) with different concentrations of thymol (0.3%, 0.9%, 1.8%, 3%, and 5%) and glycerol as a plasticizer by solution casting technique. The prepared films were tested for mechanical, optical, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Film F5 (CMC + P + PHB + 0.9%thymol) showed an excellent tensile strength of 15 MPa, Young's modulus of 395 MPa, antioxidant activity (AA) (92%), rapid soil biodegradation (21 days), and strong antimicrobial activity against bacterial and fungal cultures such as Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Aspergillus niger, and Aspergillus flavus. The thymol content increase in films F6 (1.8%), F7 (3%), and F8 (5%) displayed a decrease in mechanical properties due to thymol's hydrophobicity. For shelf life studies on tomatoes, F2, a film without thymol (poor antimicrobial and antioxidant activities), F5 (film with superior mechanical, optical, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties), and F7 (film with low mechanical properties) were selected. Film F5 coatings on tomato fruit enhanced the shelf life of up to 15 days by preventing weight loss, preserving firmness, and delaying changes in biochemical constituents like lycopene, phenols, and AA. Based on the mechanical, optical, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and shelf life results, the film F5 is suitable for active food packaging and preservation.

Practical Application

The developed active biodegradable composite can be utilized as a coating to extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables. These coatings are easy to produce and apply, offering a sustainable solution to reduce food waste. On an industrial scale, they can be applied to food products, ensuring longer freshness without any technical challenges.
Active Heme Metabolism Suppresses Macrophage Phagocytosis via the TLR4/Type I IFN Signaling/CD36 in Uterine Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Zhang Xing , Yang Yi‐Xing , Lu Jia‐Jing , Hou Ding‐Yu , Abudukeyoumu Ayitila , Zhang Hong‐Wei , Li Ming‐Qing , Xie Feng
Published: August 2024

Background

Uterine endometrial cancer (UEC) is a common gynecological estrogen‐dependent carcinoma, usually accompanied by intermenstrual bleeding. Active heme metabolism frequently plays an increasingly important role in many diseases, especially in cancers. Tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) are the major population in the immune microenvironment of UEC. However, the roles of heme metabolisms in the crosstalk between UEC cells (UECCs) and macrophages are unclear.

Materials and Methods

In our study, by using TCGA database analysis, integration analysis of the protein–protein interaction (PPI) network and sample RNA transcriptome sequencing were done. The expression level of both heme‐associated molecules and iron metabolism‐related molecules were measured by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Heme level detection was done through dehydrohorseradish peroxidase assay. In addition to immunohistochemistry, phagocytosis assay of macrophages, immunofluorescence staining, intracellular ferrous iron staining, as well as enzyme‐linked immune sorbent assay were performed.

Results

In the study, we verified that heme accumulation in UECCs is apparently higher than in endometrial epithelium cells. Low expression of succinate dehydrogenase B under the regulation of estrogen contributes to over‐production of succinate and heme accumulation in UECC. More importantly, excessive heme in UECCs impaired macrophage phagocytosis by regulation of CD36. Mechanistically, this process is dependent on toll‐like receptor (TLR4)/type I interferons alpha (IFN Iα) regulatory axis in macrophage.

Conclusion

Collectively, these findings elucidate that active heme metabolism of UECCs directly decreases phagocytosis by controlling the secretion of TLR4‐mediated IFN Iα and the expression of CD36, and further contributing to the immune escape of UEC.
Effects of pre‐heating of broiler breeder's eggs on hatchability, chick quality, overall performance, and welfare traits in broilers
Authors: Erensoy Kadir , Sarıca Musa , Noubandiguim Moise , Karaçay Numan
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to investigate the effects of varying pre‐heating practices (12‐h: PH12; 8‐h: PH8; 4‐h: PH4 and 0‐h or no pre‐heating: PH0) of broiler breeder's eggs prior to incubation on hatching, chick quality, overall performance, and welfare traits in broilers. A total of 960 eggs obtained from Ross 308 breeders at 45 weeks were used for pre‐heating manipulations and 480 chicks for broiler experiment. Apparent fertility was higher in PH0 (94.6%) and PH4 (94.5%) treatments than in PH8 (91.6%) and PH12 (90.6%); hatchability of fertile and set eggs was higher in PH4 and PH12. PH4, PH8, and PH12 treatments significantly accelerated the average hatching time compared to PH0. General chick quality was not affected by pre‐heating treatments. However, chick length was significantly lower in PH0 chicks than PH12. Pre‐heating manipulations did not change the overall broiler performance. Welfare characteristics were similar among treatments, while only hock burn was better in PH8 broilers. In conclusion, pre‐heating of broiler breeder eggs for 4 to 12 h improved hatching success by lowering embryonic mortality and shortened the average hatching time compared to no pre‐heating, and did not cause any significant alteration in chick quality, overall performance, and welfare characteristics.
How well can the fetal heart rate baseline be assessed by intrapartum intermittent auscultation? An interrater reliability and agreement study
Authors: Engelhart Christina Hernandez , Vanbelle Sophie , Øian Pål , Pay Aase Serine Devold , Kaasen Anne , Blix Ellen
Published: August 2024

Background

We aimed to examine the inter‐reliability and agreement among midwives when assessing the fetal heart rate (FHR) using the handheld Doppler. The primary aim was to measure the reliability and agreement of FHR baseline (baseline) as beats per minute (bpm). The secondary aims were to measure fluctuations from the baseline, defined as increases and decreases, and classifications (normal or abnormal) of FHR soundtracks. This is the first interrater reliability and agreement study on intermittent auscultation (IA) to our knowledge.

Methods

The participant population consisted of 154 women in labor, from a mixed‐risk population and admitted to hospital for intrapartum care. The rater population were 16 midwives from various maternity care settings in Norway. A total of 154 soundtracks were recorded with a handheld Doppler device, and the 16 raters assessed 1‐min soundtracks once, through an online survey (Nettskjema). They assessed the baseline, FHR increase or decrease, and the FHR classification. The primary outcome, baseline, was measured with intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). The secondary outcomes were measured with kappa and proportion of agreement.

Results

The interrater reliability for the baseline (bpm) was ICC(A,1) 0.74 (95% CI 0.69–0.78). On average, an absolute difference of 7.9 bpm (95% CI 7.3–8.5 bpm) was observed between pairs of raters.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate an acceptable level of reliability and agreement in assessing the baseline using a handheld Doppler.
Poor compliance and exemptions facilitate ongoing deforestation
Authors: Thomas Hannah , Ward Michelle S. , Simmonds Jeremy S. , Taylor Martin F. J. , Maron Martine
Published: August 2024

Many nations are struggling to reduce deforestation, despite having extensive environmental protection laws in place and commitments to international agreements that address the biodiversity and climate crises. We developed a novel framework to quantify the extent to which contemporary deforestation is being captured under national and subnational laws. We then applied this framework to northern Australia as a case study, a development and deforestation hotspot with ecosystems of global significance. First, deforestation may be compliant under all relevant legislation, either through assessment and approval or because of exemptions in the legislation. Second, deforestation may be compliant under at least one relevant law, but not all. Third, there may be no evidence of deforestation assessment or exemption from assessment, despite their apparent requirement, which could mean the deforestation is potentially noncompliant. Finally, deforestation may occur in an area or under circumstances that are beyond the intended scope of any relevant legislation. All deforestation that we analyzed was hypothetically covered by one or more laws. However, 65% of deforestation was potentially noncompliant with at least one law. Because multiple laws could be relevant to a given clearing event, the majority of clearing was still compliant with at least one law, but of these events, only a small proportion was explicitly approved (19%). The remaining were permitted under various exemptions. Of all the legislation we analyzed, most of the exempt clearing occurred under one subnational law and most potentially noncompliant clearing occurred under one national law. Our results showed that even a nation with a suite of mature environmental protection laws is falling well short of achieving international commitments regarding deforestation. Our framework can be used to pinpoint the pathways of policy change required for nations to align local laws with these international accords.
Does CEO guilt influence the adoption of employee welfare practices?
Authors: Ashfaq Saira , Riaz Hammad , Mujtaba Ghulam , Saeed Abubakr , Baloch Muhammad Saad
Published: August 2024

This study examines the role of CEOs' guilt in adopting employee welfare practices (EWP). Using the context of privatization that is associated with large‐scale layoffs, we argue that witnessing the distress of laid‐off workers and their families causes CEOs to experience guilt for not doing enough to alleviate their suffering. The guilt, in turn, drives CEOs to engage in remedial actions of restitution that reflect positively on employee‐related practices. We find support for our idea in a sample of newly privatized firms from 31 countries. Our results show that CEOs' guilt positively influences the adoption of EWP among newly privatized firms. This effect is stronger in countries with collectivistic orientation and higher unemployment rates. Our findings suggest CEOs' values and emotions play an important role in business decisions concerning their employees. This perspective challenges the conventional view of business decisions as purely rational and profit‐driven, highlighting the importance of ethical and emotional considerations in decision‐making.
Metabolic profiling of psoriasis vulgaris and palmoplantar pustulosis
Authors: Lee Yujin , Kim Seong Rae , Ban Mu Seong , Lee Howard , Cho Joo‐Youn , Jo Seong Jin
Published: August 2024

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder with various subtypes, including psoriasis vulgaris (PV) and palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP). Metabolomics studies have provided insights into psoriasis pathogenesis. However, research on metabolomic alterations in PV and PPP patients is limited. We aimed to explore and compare the metabolic profiles of patients with PV and PPP to those of healthy volunteers (HVs). A single‐centre retrospective cohort was constructed, comprising Korean patients with psoriasis and HVs matched by age and sex. Clinical information including demographics, disease severity, and comorbidities were collected. Plasma samples were subjected to targeted metabolic analysis using an Absolute IDQ®p180 kit, which quantified 188 metabolites, including amino acids and carnitines. Statistical significance was assessed using an independent t‐test and chi‐square test, with p‐values adjusted by the Benjamini–Hochberg procedure. Pathway analyses were employed to gain a comprehensive understanding of the metabolite profile. This study included 93 patients (73 PV and 20 PPP) and an equal number of HVs. PV patients showed increased levels of sarcosine, serotonin, propionylcarnitine, proline, aspartic acid, tyrosine, taurine, spermine and ornithine, but exhibited a decreased level of acetylcarnitine than matched HVs. Notably, sarcosine levels were significantly elevated in PPP patients. Furthermore, the sarcosine/glycine ratio was significantly higher in both PV and PPP patients than in HVs. Pathway analysis showed significant increases in metabolites involved in amino acid metabolism and the urea cycle in PV patients. In conclusion, this study demonstrated distinct metabolic profiles in PV and PPP patients compared to HVs, suggesting sarcosine as a potential biomarker for psoriasis.
Atmospheric nitrogen deposition is related to plant biodiversity loss at multiple spatial scales
Authors: van der Plas Fons , Hautier Yann , Ceulemans Tobias , Alard Didier , Bobbink Roland , Diekmann Martin , Dise Nancy B. , Dorland Edu , Dupré Cecilia , Gowing David , Stevens Carly
Published: August 2024

Due to various human activities, including intensive agriculture, traffic, and the burning of fossil fuels, in many parts of the world, current levels of reactive nitrogen emissions strongly exceed pre‐industrial levels. Previous studies have shown that the atmospheric deposition of these excess nitrogen compounds onto semi‐natural terrestrial environments has negative consequences for plant diversity. However, these previous studies mostly investigated biodiversity loss at local spatial scales, that is, at the scales of plots of typically a few square meters. Whether increased atmospheric nitrogen deposition also affects plant diversity at larger spatial scales remains unknown. Here, using grassland plant community data collected in 765 plots, across 153 different sites and 9 countries in northwestern Europe, we investigate whether relationships between atmospheric nitrogen deposition and plant biodiversity are scale‐dependent. We found that high levels of atmospheric nitrogen deposition were associated with low levels of plant species richness at the plot scale but also at the scale of sites and regions. The presence of 39% of plant species was negatively associated with increasing levels of nitrogen deposition at large (site) scales, while only 1.5% of the species became more common with increasing nitrogen deposition, indicating that large‐scale biodiversity changes were mostly driven by “loser” species, while “winner” species profiting from high N deposition were rare. Some of the “loser” species whose site presence was negatively associated with atmospheric nitrogen deposition are listed as “threatened” in at least some EU member states, suggesting that nitrogen deposition may be a key contributor to their threat status. Hence, reductions in reactive nitrogen emissions will likely benefit plant diversity not only at local but also at larger spatial scales.
Topical amitriptyline in burning mouth syndrome: A retrospective real‐world evidence study
Authors: Lebel Ashley , Da Silva Vieira Dylan , Boucher Yves
Published: August 2024

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness, tolerability, and safety of topical amitriptyline as a potential route of administration for the management of burning mouth syndrome.

Background

Burning mouth syndrome is a complex, idiopathic, and debilitating orofacial pain disorder that impairs quality of life, with a prevalence of up to 18% in menopausal women. Available drugs to alleviate its burning sensation have inconsistent and limited efficacy. Given its physicochemical properties, excellent tolerability, and ability to target peripheral pathways, topical amitriptyline seems a promising mechanistically specific analgesic drug for burning mouth syndrome.

Methods

In this retrospective cross‐sectional real‐world evidence study, patients with burning mouth syndrome who were prescribed topical amitriptyline for 8 weeks were identified. Eligibility criteria stemmed from ICHD‐3, ICOP, and consensus definitions. The primary outcome measure was mean daily pain intensity (on a 0–10 scale); secondary outcomes included adverse events and patient global impression of improvement. Data are given as the mean ± SD.

Results

A total of 15 patients fulfilling the eligibility criteria were included and analyzed. Mean daily pain was 6.7 ± 2.1 at baseline and 3.7 ± 2.3 after treatment, with a mean reduction of 3.1 ± 2.8 (p = 0.002). Half of the patients experienced a decrease in pain by at least 50% (p = 0.008). Several mild adverse events were reported, such as somnolence or dry mouth.

Conclusions

Topical amitriptyline may be a safe and potent route of administration in the treatment of burning mouth syndrome, a hypothesis to be tested in further controlled trials.
Candidate Antigens and the Development of Helicobacter pylori Vaccines
Authors: Zhang Zhanhua , Cui Man , Ji Xiaohui , Su Guimin , Zhang Yi‐Xuan , Du Lin
Published: August 2024

Background

Infection with Helicobacter pylori (Hp) mostly occurs during childhood, and persistent infection may lead to severe gastric diseases and even gastric cancer. Currently, the primary method for eradicating Hp is through antibiotic treatment. However, the increasing multidrug resistance in Hp strains has diminished the effectiveness of antibiotic treatments. Vaccination could potentially serve as an effective intervention to resolve this issue.

Aims

Through extensive research and analysis of the vital protein characteristics involved in Hp infection, we aim to provide references for subsequent vaccine antigen selection. Additionally, we summarize the current research and development of Hp vaccines in order to provide assistance for future research.

Materials and Methods

Utilizing the databases PubMed and the Web of Science, a comprehensive search was conducted to compile articles pertaining to Hp antigens and vaccines. The salient aspects of these articles were then summarized to provide a detailed overview of the current research landscape in this field.

Results

Several potential antigens have been identified and introduced through a thorough understanding of the infection process and pathogenic mechanisms of Hp. The conserved and widely distributed candidate antigens in Hp, such as UreB, HpaA, GGT, and NAP, are discussed. Proteins such as CagA and VacA, which have significant virulence effects but relatively poor conservatism, require further evaluation. Emerging antigens like HtrA and dupA have significant research value. In addition, vaccines based on these candidate antigens have been compiled and summarized.

Conclusions

Vaccines are a promising method for preventing and treating Hp. While some Hp vaccines have achieved promising results, mature products are not yet available on the market. Great efforts have been directed toward developing various types of vaccines, underscoring the need for developers to select appropriate antigens and vaccine formulations to improve success rates.
The impact of male urinary incontinence on quality of life and sexual health
Authors: Gezginci Elif , Ata Aysenur , Goktas Sonay
Published: August 2024

Men with urinary incontinence problems may have a fear of urinary incontinence during sexual intercourse, which may negatively affect their sexual lives. This study aimed to determine the effect of urinary incontinence on quality of life and erectile dysfunction in men. A total of 203 men with urinary incontinence who presented to a urology outpatient clinic were assessed using a patient information form, the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire‐Urinary Incontinence Short Form (ICIQ‐SF), and the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). The mean age was 63.48 ± 8.80 years, the mean ICIQ‐SF score was 13.45 ± 3.14 (moderate), and the IIEF erectile dysfunction score was 18.52 ± 6.48 (mild/moderate). Patient age correlated positively with the ICIQ‐SF total score (r = 0.309, p < 0.001) and negatively with the IIEF total score (r = −0.452, p < 0.001). The ICIQ‐SF score was negatively correlated with erectile function, orgasmic function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction and overall satisfaction scores (p < 0.001, p = 0.015, p = 0.037, p = 0.006 and p = 0.001, respectively). More severe urinary incontinence in men was associated with lower quality of life and greater erectile dysfunction. Further studies are needed to raise men's awareness of urinary incontinence.
The real effects of M&As on targets’ peers
Authors: Du Linda , Li Wen , Sun Jianfei
Published: August 2024

This paper studies the real effects of targets’ acquisitions on their peers through investigating the real earnings management (REM) behavior of the targets’ rivals following the mergers and acquisitions (M&As). Using a difference‐in‐differences design, we find that, on average, rivals of acquisition targets would engage in more REM after M&A announcements. We further find that within rivals of the target, the post‐announcement increase in REM is more pronounced when: (1) the rival is relatively less similar to the target; (2) the rival serves as the targets’ rival more than once within a year; (3) the target earns a higher bidding premium or positive abnormal returns; or (4) the rival has the higher institutional ownership or more analyst following. Additional analyses reveal that rivals engaging in more REM would have a higher likelihood of being acquired in subsequent years and would be sold at higher premiums. We also find that targets’ rivals boost their short‐term performance by engaging in REM activities at the cost of their long‐term performance. Our results are robust to various robustness checks. Overall, our evidence suggests that an acquisition activity could have a real effect on the target's industry, i.e., the effect on the accounting choices of the whole industry.
A new perspective on tree growing season determination
Authors: Piermattei Alma
Published: August 2024

Defining plant development timing through seasonal growth and dormancy phases is a valuable proxy for studying climate change and serves as an annual bioindicator. However, current methods for determining the growing season vary due to species‐specific interpretations and differing understandings of its main drivers. Körner et al. (2023) introduced four non‐interchangeable definitions of growing seasons to clarify this complex issue. While some studies have paired different methods, none have simultaneously applied a full set of methods at the individual tree or species level. Here, I aim to present a new perspective to understanding growing season timing by focusing on all facets of above‐ground tree growth and measurable biological and phenological markers. This approach calls for simultaneous, continuous monitoring during active and dormancy periods on the same trees and across different species at a large spatial scale. The goal is to comprehensively understand each method's errors, temporal lags, and the factors determining each growing season, as defined by Körner et al. (2023, Ecology Letters, 26, 1277). Accurate estimation of growing season timing can reshape our understanding of its environmental drivers, improve terrestrial ecosystem models, assess the impact of climate change on tree growth, determine the biological zero for various species, verify remote sensing indices and forecast species distribution.
Effect of acidic media on surface characteristics of highly filled flowable resin‐based composites: An in vitro study
Authors: Vulović Stefan , Blatz Markus B. , Bukorović Jovan , Živković Nikola , Todorović Aleksandar , Vencl Aleksandar , Milić Lemić Aleksandra
Published: August 2024

Objective

To analyze and compare the impact of acidic media on the surface characteristics of highly filled flowable resin‐based composites.

Materials and Methods

Two hundred fifty‐six specimens were divided into four groups: GUF (G‐aenial Universal Flo), GUI (G‐aenial Universal Injectable), TEF (Tetric EvoFlow), and FSF (Filtek Supreme Flowable Restorative). Surface characteristics were analyzed before (T0) and after specimens immersion in different media, such as gastric juice (GJ), fizzy drink (FD), citric juice (CJ), or artificial saliva (AS), for 9 h (T1) and 18 h (T2). The analyses included surface roughness (SR) measurements, where average roughness (Ra) was obtained, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis, and surface hardness (SH) evaluation, with Vickers numbers (HV) reported. The differences in values among groups/subgroups within the same stage were assessed using two‐way ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc test, whereas repeated measures ANOVA with Bonferroni post hoc test was performed to compare the changes in values through the stages. Data were presented as mean ± standard deviation (SD).

Results

At T0, GUI and GUF revealed lower Ra values (p < 0.05), more evenness in SEM micrographs, and higher HV values (p < 0.05) than FSF and TEF. At T1 and T2, specimens of all groups/subgroups demonstrated an increase in Ra and a decrease in HV compared with T0 (p < 0.05), as well as the changes in surface morphology on SEM micrographs. The lowest Ra and highest HV values were observed in GUI group, in contrast to FSF group, and in specimens immersed in GJ.

Conclusions

GUI revealed lower SR and higher SH compared to GUF and FSF both before and after exposure to acidic media. The presence of acidic media, especially GJ, significantly increases SR and decreases SH of tested materials.

Clinical Significance

Information on the changes in the surface characteristics of highly filled resin‐based composites after exposure to acidic media may be essential for the longevity of restorations like composite veneers fabricated from these materials.
Development of loneliness and social isolation after spousal loss: A systematic review of longitudinal studies on widowhood
Authors: Niino Kerri , Patapoff Molly A. , Mausbach Brent T. , Liu Hui , Moore Alison A. , Han Benjamin H. , Palmer Barton W. , Jester Dylan J.
Published: August 2024

Background

Spousal loss is a stressful life event that is associated with loneliness and social isolation, both of which affect mental and physical health. The primary objective of this paper was to synthesize longitudinal studies that investigated loneliness and social isolation in widowhood.

Methods

A systematic search of the literature was conducted using three electronic databases. 26 longitudinal studies published through June 2024 were included for further analysis. Participant characteristics, study design, and key findings were extracted.

Results

Most studies were from the United States or Europe, included more widows than widowers, and assessed loneliness in older adults aged >60 years. Loneliness peaked directly following spousal death, but findings were inconsistent regarding the lasting effects of widowhood. Heterogeneity in the longitudinal trajectories of loneliness was noted, with studies showing linear increases, decreases, or curvilinear relationships over time. Several factors modified the relationship between widowhood and loneliness, including volunteerism, military experience, income, and age. Widowers consistently reported greater loneliness and worse social isolation when compared with widows. Few studies investigated social isolation specifically, but those that did found that social isolation may decrease in widowhood.

Conclusions

As the world grapples with a social pandemic of loneliness and social isolation, widowed adults may be uniquely affected. Few studies investigated the longitudinal trajectory of loneliness and especially social isolation in widowhood, and those that did found heterogenous results. Future work is needed to understand why some widowed adults are uniquely affected by feelings of loneliness and social isolation while others are not, and whether potentially modifiable factors that moderate or mediate this relationship could be leveraged by psychosocial interventions.
Corruption dynamics and political instability
Authors: Lisciandra Maurizio , Miralles Asensio Antonio , Monteforte Fabio
Published: August 2024

This paper introduces a model where a briber designs a bribing schedule targeted at the governing party within a bipartisan system to secure favorable treatment. Detected corruption increases voters' resentment, and in turn, the risk of political turnover—raising the minimum acceptable bribe. Periods without corruption mitigate such a risk. Should the briber deem bribing unprofitable for sufficiently high levels of resentment, resentment converges to a steady state in finite time. Conversely, if the briber perceives bribing as profitable regardless of the resentment level, the dynamics may result in continuous bribing and an unbounded increase in resentment (exploding dynamics). The model underscores the complexity of addressing corruption, emphasizing the need to balance reducing corruption with preventing excessive political instability. Societal forgiveness and sensitivity significantly shape corruption dynamics and public resentment. While forgiveness reduces long‐run resentment, it concurrently exacerbates long‐term corruption and, on balance, may have a detrimental effect on long‐term welfare. Sensitivity has no long‐run effect on resentment, while it reduces both corruption activity and political instability in the long term. Finally, exogenous political instability exacerbates corruption, resentment, and the risk of exploding dynamics.
Geographic patterns and climatic drivers of phylogenetic structure of liverworts along a long elevational gradient in the central Himalaya
Authors: Qian Hong
Published: August 2024

For clades originating in warm climates, the tropical niche conservatism hypothesis predicts that current biological assemblages in colder or drier climates are expected to have lower phylogenetic diversity, and species in colder or drier climates are expected to be more closely related to each other (i.e., higher phylogenetic clustering). Liverworts are one of the oldest clades of extant land plants. They originated about 500 Ma during a warm (“greenhouse”) period and experienced multiple major cycles of warm and cold periods. Here, I test the tropical niche conservatism hypothesis using liverwort assemblages distributed along an elevational gradient crossing about 5000 m of elevation in the central Himalaya. I found that, in general, phylogenetic diversity and dispersion decrease with increasing elevation and thus with decreasing temperature, which is consistent with the tropical niche conservatism hypothesis. Phylogenetic diversity decreases with elevation monotonically, but phylogenetic dispersion decreases with elevation in a triphasic (zig‐zag) pattern, which is generally consistent with the triphasic pattern found in angiosperms and polypod ferns along the same elevational gradient. Temperature‐related variables explained approximately the same amount of the variation in phylogenetic diversity and dispersion as did precipitation‐related variables, although mean annual temperature explained 9%−15% more variation than did annual precipitation. Climate extreme variables explained approximately the same amount of variation in phylogenetic diversity and dispersion as did climate seasonality variables.
Post‐transfer adaptation of HGT‐acquired genes and contribution to guanine metabolic diversification in land plants
Authors: Wu Jun‐Jie , Deng Qian‐Wen , Qiu Yi‐Yang , Liu Chao , Lin Chen‐Feng , Ru Ya‐Lu , Sun Yue , Lai Jun , Liu Lu‐Xian , Shen Xing‐Xing , Pan Ronghui , Zhao Yun‐Peng
Published: August 2024

Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) is a major driving force in the evolution of prokaryotic and eukaryotic genomes. Despite recent advances in distribution and ecological importance, the extensive pattern, especially in seed plants, and post‐transfer adaptation of HGT‐acquired genes in land plants remain elusive.

We systematically identified 1150 foreign genes in 522 land plant genomes that were likely acquired via at least 322 distinct transfers from nonplant donors and confirmed that recent HGT events were unevenly distributed between seedless and seed plants.

HGT‐acquired genes evolved to be more similar to native genes in terms of average intron length due to intron gains, and HGT‐acquired genes containing introns exhibited higher expression levels than those lacking introns, suggesting that intron gains may be involved in the post‐transfer adaptation of HGT in land plants.

Functional validation of bacteria‐derived gene GuaD in mosses and gymnosperms revealed that the invasion of foreign genes introduced a novel bypass of guanine degradation and resulted in the loss of native pathway genes in some gymnosperms, eventually shaping three major types of guanine metabolism in land plants. We conclude that HGT has played a critical role in land plant evolution.
Clinical outcomes for minimally invasive sacroiliac joint fusion with allograft using a posterior approach
Authors: Moghim Robert , Bovinet Chris , Jin Max Y. , Edwards Katie , Abd‐Elsayed Alaa
Published: August 2024

Background

Sacroiliac joint (SIJ) dysfunction can occur as a result of injury, degeneration, or inflammation. This dysfunction presents symptoms of pain at various locations, including the low back, hips, buttocks, and legs. The diagnosis of SIJ dysfunction is challenging and cannot be achieved solely with imaging studies such as X‐rays, MRI, or CT. The current gold standard diagnostic modality is intra‐articular SIJ blocks using two differing local anesthetics. Current treatments for SIJ dysfunction may be beneficial for short‐term relief but lack long‐term efficacy. The purpose of our study was to examine the outcomes of patients who underwent minimally invasive, posterior SIJ fusion using allograft at a single center.

Methods

This was a retrospective study which received exemption from the WCG IRB. Data regarding preoperative and postoperative pain levels, surgical time, complications, and medication usage were obtained retrospectively from patient electronic medical records and prescription drug monitoring program reports. No mapping was completed prior to the procedure. Pain was assessed with the 11‐point (0–10) Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and medication usage was assessed using Morphine Milligram Equivalents (MME). Patients were included if they had been diagnosed with SIJ dysfunction using two intra‐articular diagnostic blocks that resulted in at least an 80% decrease in pain and had failed conservative management. Patients with sacral insufficiency fractures were excluded.

Results

VAS scores reduced from 8.26 (SD = 1.09) at baseline to 2.59 (SD = 2.57), 2.55 (SD = 2.56), 2.71 (SD = 2.88), and 2.71 (SD = 2.88) at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, respectively. MME reduced from 78.21 mg (SD = 51.33) to 58.95 mg (SD = 48.64), 57.61 mg (SD = 47.92), 61.71 mg (SD = 45.64), and 66.29 mg (SD = 51.65) at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months, respectively. All reductions in VAS scores and MME were statistically significant. No adverse events occurred, and the average operating room time was 40.16 min (SD = 6.27).

Conclusion

Minimally invasive, posterior SIJ fusion using allograft is a safe and efficacious method for managing SIJ dysfunction.