bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating geospatial intelligence and spatio-temporal modeling for monitoring tourism-related carbon emissions in the United States
Authors: Mansourihanis Omid , Maghsoodi Tilaki Mohammad Javad , Kookhaei Tahereh , Zaroujtaghi Ayda , Sheikhfarshi Shiva , Abdoli Nastaran
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study explores the spatial and temporal relationship between tourism activities and transportation-related carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in the United States (US) from 2003 to 2022 using advanced geospatial modeling techniques.

Design/methodology/approach

The research integrated geographic information systems (GIS) to map tourist attractions against high-resolution annual emissions data. The analysis covered 3,108 US counties, focusing on county-level attraction densities and annual on-road CO2 emission patterns. Advanced spatial analysis techniques, including bivariate mapping and local bivariate relationship testing, were employed to assess potential correlations.

Findings

The findings reveal limited evidence of significant associations between tourism activities and transportation-based CO2 emissions around major urban centers, with decreases observed in Eastern states and the Midwest, particularly in non-coastal areas, from 2003 to 2022. Most counties (86.03%) show no statistically significant relationship between changes in tourism density and on-road CO2 emissions. However, 1.90% of counties show a positive linear relationship, 2.64% a negative linear relationship, 0.29% a concave relationship, 1.61% a convex relationship and 7.63% a complex, undefined relationship. Despite this, the 110% national growth in tourism output and resource consumption from 2003–2022 raises potential sustainability concerns.

Practical implications

To tackle sustainability issues in tourism, policymakers and stakeholders can integrate emissions accounting, climate modeling and sustainability governance. Effective interventions are vital for balancing tourism demands with climate resilience efforts promoting social equity and environmental justice.

Originality/value

This study’s innovative application of geospatial modeling and comprehensive spatial analysis provides new insights into the complex relationship between tourism activities and CO2 emissions. The research highlights the challenges in isolating tourism’s specific impacts on emissions and underscores the need for more granular geographic assessments or comprehensive emission inventories to fully understand tourism’s environmental footprint.
A temporal evolution of human resource management and technology research: a retrospective bibliometric analysis
Authors: Narzary Srumita , Makhecha Upam Pushpak , Budhwar Pawan , Malik Ashish , Kumar Satish
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Research on human resource management (HRM) and technology has gained momentum recently. This review aims to create a bibliographic profile of the field of HRM and technology using bibliometric techniques, complemented by qualitative analysis, examining 239 articles published in the four key human resource (HR) journals.

Design/methodology/approach

First, using VOSviewer software, we analysed the research productivity by identifying authors, journals and influential articles, followed by insights on research themes and their evolution. Next, integrating bibliometric and qualitative approaches, we conducted a hybrid inquiry of the field to analyse current theories, methods and variables.

Findings

The bibliometric analysis highlighted the intellectual structure, key themes and distinctive developments categorised under four temporal phases that have shaped research in this field. In addition, qualitative analysis presents significant theoretical perspectives, the methods employed and the nomological framework of variables.

Originality/value

Our study advances the extant literature on HRM and technology by quantifying the leading bibliometric performance indicators complemented by qualitative evaluation of the field, which entails exploring the possible research strands and related trends that have emerged in the past two decades.
The Equality Act 2010: evaluating the evolution and development of organisational strategy and professional practice
Authors: Hamerton Christopher
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to evaluate the evolution, development and endurance of the Equality Act 2010, providing a critical overview of influence and key legal principles, demonstrating how the Act has impacted strategic organisational and human resources policy and practice in the UK.

Design/methodology/approach

The research is based on a systematic review of relevant professional and academic literature, alongside an evaluation of the Act itself. The subject focus is seen as timely with the return of a Labour Government in the UK – the architects of the Equality Act – for the first time in 14 years. Due to word limitations, the treatment is condensed to provide a selective overview that will be of interest to practitioners and academics in strategic organisational management and human resources. The author is a socio-legal studies academic and non-practising barrister, with expertise in the corporate organisational field.

Findings

The Equality Act 2010, though now established, owes its historical inception to civil rights activism and a radical turn in legislative drafting and ambition – points frequently missed when discussing its scope and influence. A highly unusual anomaly is that having been created by an outgoing Labour Government its stewardship immediately passed to a Conservative administration. In particular, the principles consolidated and introduced by the Act have greatly impacted the workplace, crucially organisational behaviour and human resources practices, leading to greater responsibility and interpretive power being directed from employment lawyers towards organisational policy and professional practice.

Originality/value

The Equality Act 2010 is usually discussed as an artifact rather than a radical creation and developing entity. This short paper approaches the Act as a “living” object with an eye on future reform.
The Australian Greens' Public Property Developer: An Input–Output Analysis
Authors: Satterlee Chad
Published: August 2024

The Australian Greens have recently proposed the establishment of a new federal government agency to build 360,000 extra homes over five years. These homes would be sold or rented at below‐market rates. The appraisal of this plan has so far been confined to a fiscal balance perspective, where completed homes are sold, rental income is received, and government administration and borrowing costs are serviced. This ignores the flow‐on effects on the broader economy from expanded residential building construction activity. This paper starts to fill this gap by using a simple Leontief input–output model to analyse a counterfactual in which the Greens' plan is partially implemented into the structure of the Australian economy in 2021–2022. In light of the $84.14 billion static change in the level of total national product that, other things equal, must have occurred to satisfy an augmented final use bill corresponding to the Greens' plan, the simulation finds that projected imposts on the federal budget are rendered relatively modest. Potential extensions and applications of the model for policymakers are considered.

JEL Classification: D5, E1, P5
Conspiratorial narratives as cultural repertoires and methodological tools
Authors: Soytemel Ebru , Saglam Erol
Published: August 2024

This article builds on data and field work notes from two ethnographic studies conducted in two cities: Istanbul and Trabzon, Turkey. It examines the socio‐political dynamics behind the prevalence and impact of conspiratorial narratives. We explore the emergence, circulation, and effects of these narratives and how they shape political orientations and mobilisation. We raise methodological questions about these narratives and propose researchers closely scrutinise them rather than dismissing them as illogical or incoherent. Our research reveals three novel relational and methodological insights derived from conspiratorial narratives. First, these narratives serve as sense‐making tools during times of uncertainty. They provide accessible explanations for abrupt changes, and they rely and draw upon ‘cultural repertoires’. Second, by challenging the mainstream narratives, they shape subjectivities; empowering narrators to act as agents. Third, how conspiratorial narratives circulate has implications for the dynamics of state‐public relationships, often following the neoliberal logic, they portray political leaders as central figures in navigating complex decision‐making processes. Our case studies demonstrate that actors, even in less powerful positions, may not necessarily antagonise the state. We underscore the methodological significance of these narratives for researchers, to examine actors’ agency, group dynamics, and responses to everyday injustices.
Does economic inequality reduce political system support? Local‐level evidence from Denmark
Authors: COLOMBO FRANCESCO , DINESEN PETER THISTED , SØNDERSKOV KIM MANNEMAR
Published: August 2024

Does economic inequality dampen support for the political system? This question has been answered in the affirmative in prior work studying the relationship between economic inequality and various manifestations of political system support across countries or US states. However, recent work challenges the premise underlying such analyses by showing that citizens are generally ignorant about national‐level inequality. Relatedly, work on contextual effects finds that economic and social phenomena are particularly consequential for political attitudes when they reflect palpable everyday experiences. Combining these insights, we suggest that a more theoretically and methodologically appropriate test of the proposition that economic inequality reduces political system support should focus on local, neighbourhood‐level economic inequality, which citizens encounter on a daily basis. By linking multiple geo‐referenced surveys – both cross‐sectional and longitudinal – with Danish registry data, we create micro‐contextual measures of local economic inequality and relate them to a range of indicators of political system support. We find no evidence indicating that local inequality reduces political system support.
Combined interpretation of objective firearm evidence comparison algorithms using Bayesian networks
Authors: Spaulding Jamie S. , LaCasse Lauren S.
Published: August 2024

Traditionally, firearm and toolmark examiners manually evaluate the similarity of features on two bullets using comparison microscopy. Advances in microscopy have made it possible to collect 3D topographic data, and several automated comparison algorithms have been introduced for the comparison of bullet striae using these data. In this study, open‐source approaches for cross‐correlation, congruent matching profile segments, consecutive matching striations, and a random forest model were evaluated. A statistical characterization of these automated approaches was performed using four datasets of consecutively manufactured firearms to provide a challenging comparison scenario. Each automated approach was applied to all samples in a pairwise fashion, and classification performance was compared. Based on these findings, a Bayesian network was empirically learned and constructed to leverage the strengths of each individual approach, model the relationship between the automated results, and combine them into a posterior probability for the given comparison. The network was evaluated similarly to the automated approaches, and the results were compared. The developed Bayesian network classified 99.6% of the samples correctly, and the resultant probability distributions were significantly separated more so than the automated approaches when used in isolation.
METTL14 promotes chondrocyte ferroptosis in osteoarthritis via m6A modification of GPX4
Authors: Liu Dawei , Ren Liang , Liu Jun
Published: August 2024

Background

Ferroptosis is caused by iron‐dependent peroxidation of membrane phospholipids and chondrocyte ferroptosis contributes to osteoarthritis (OA) progression. Glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) plays a master role in blocking ferroptosis. N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) is an epigenetic modification among mRNA post‐transcriptional modifications. This study investigated the effect of methyltransferase‐like 14 (METTL14), the key component of the m6A methyltransferase, on chondrocyte ferroptosis via m6A modification.

Methods

An OA rat model was established through an intra‐articular injection of monosodium iodoacetate in the right knee. OA cartilages in rat models were used for gene expression analysis. Primary mouse chondrocytes or ADTC5 cells were stimulated with IL‐1β or erastin. The m6A RNA methylation quantification kit was used to measure m6A level. The effect of METTL14 and GPX4 on ECM degradation and ferroptosis was investigated through western blotting, fluorescence immunostaining, propidium iodide staining, and commercially available kits. The mechanism of METTL14 action was explored through MeRIP‐qPCR assays.

Results

METTL14 and m6A expression was upregulated in osteoarthritic cartilages and IL‐1β‐induced chondrocytes. METTL14 depletion repressed the IL‐1β or erastin‐stimulated ECM degradation and ferroptosis in mouse chondrocytes. METTL14 inhibited GPX4 gene through m6A methylation modification. GPX4 knockdown reversed the si‐METTL14‐mediated protection in IL‐1β‐induced chondrocytes.

Conclusion

METTL14 depletion inhibits ferroptosis and ECM degradation by suppressing GPX4 mRNA m6A modification in injured chondrocytes.
Feasibility of triple assessment of the anastomosis using an anastomotic checklist
Authors: Kelly Madeleine Louise , Cao Amy , Rajan Ruben ,   Objective Anastomotic Checklist Reviewers, Clark David A
Published: August 2024

Background

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer and the second highest cause of cancer mortality in Australia. Despite advances in colorectal surgery, anastomotic leak still occurs in low‐risk patients and is a substantial cause of morbidity and mortality. Many operative strategies are used to assess anastomotic integrity such as an air leak test or intraoperative flexible sigmoidoscopy, however an objective anastomotic checklist is yet to be developed and studied. This study aims to develop a photodocumentary anastomotic specific checklist and determine its feasibility for implementation.

Methods

Patients undergoing left sided colorectal resections with primary anastomosis without a de‐functioning ileostomy were prospectively included between May 2021 and December 2022. A photographic checklist assessing anastomotic perfusion, integrity via either air test or endoscopic image, evidence of complete operative doughnut specimens and the assessment of tension was implemented. The feasibility of an anastomotic checklist was externally validated by four independent colorectal surgeons from Australia, New Zealand and United States of America.

Results

The anastomotic checklist was completed in 44 patients. Mean age was 62 years, with 43% male and mean BMI 28. Operations included high anterior resection (45%), low anterior resection (18%), ultra‐low anterior resection (20%), reversal of Hartmann's (11%). Median length of stay was 4 days. Complications post operatively were documented in six patients with anastomotic leak in 2% and wound infection in 6.8%. Intraclass correlation coefficients were poor amongst all reviewers with air leak and tension having no inter‐reviewer correlation.

Conclusion

The introduction of an anastomotic checklist was a feasible tool to systematically assess and document anastomotic integrity. Unfortunately, with the small sample size there was significant discrepancy in inter‐observer variability, and this led to poor correlation regarding which patients were typically high risk requiring a temporary ileostomy. Larger studies on the implementation of an anastomotic checklist will be needed to evaluate if it is an inherently feasible approach and if there is an effect on anastomotic leak.
A history of advocacy in breast cancer: lessons for all of us in putting advocacy to work – or ‘how to just get things done!’
Authors: Saunders Christobel M. , Tyson Thomas M.
Published: August 2024

Advocacy in breast cancer has a history going back eight decades, influencing funding for research, giving women a voice in their treatment, and helping destigmatise the disease and its management. We aim to outline this trajectory. This is a retrospective historical narrative. We have identified a number of prominent women diagnosed with breast cancer who have had significant political influence and describe the grassroots movement of patient advocacy groups who now have a seat at the policy table and are integral to the research agenda. We also report on how as surgeons we can advocate for better treatments and care pathways, and importantly help build the evidence‐base to inform better practice and policy. Surgical advocacy and consumer advocacy have led to huge improvements in management and outcomes for those affected by breast cancer.
Advancements in radiocarbon dating: An overview of its impact on Mexican archaeology
Authors: Solís Corina , Rodríguez‐Ceja María , Alcántara‐Chávez Alberto , Martínez‐Carrillo Miguel Ángel
Published: August 2024

In this article, we provide a concise historical summary tracing the evolution of radiocarbon dating techniques in Mexico and Central America. We explore the contributions of early pioneers who first employed radiocarbon dating methods, leading to the establishment of a Mexican accelerator mass spectrometry laboratory. The study highlights its pivotal role in shaping chronological frameworks for archaeological investigations in Mexico. Additionally, we describe two noteworthy case studies—Chiquihuite Cave and Golondrinas Chasm—as exemplars of successful applications of radiocarbon dating and Bayesian analysis in contemporary archaeological practices in Mexico.
I say a little prayer for me: Poetry as spiritual self‐care in the ethnographic field
Authors: Almudéver Chanzà Josep
Published: August 2024

How do we make sense of our place in the field as researchers and as sexual, spiritual beings? Ethnographic fieldwork is central to several disciplines, including geography. It involves the researcher encountering and gathering stories and meanings through interaction with people's lived experiences in settings that are often not the researcher's own. Although rarely strain‐free, fieldwork is seen as a transformative experience, both from the personal and the academic point of view. This paper, situated at the intersection of geography, queer/ing practices, and ethnographic methodology, explores poetry as a form of self‐care in the field. In recent years, poetry has emerged as a creative and productive mode of representation and (co‐)interpretation of qualitative data. Based on my own spiritual experience(s) while conducting fieldwork in Spain, I consider prayer cards as a poetic form and a means through which issues of self‐care and spiritual self‐preservation are made visible, particularly when experienced within a social environment that is hostile to LGBTQ+ lived experiences of faith.
Comparison of nutrient supply from the dam to fetus and placental development in Holstein and Japanese black cows pregnant with similar or different fetus breeds
Authors: Mashimo Riku , Kumazaki Yuka , Nakagami Kaori , Kusaba Nobuyuki , Kawashima Chiho
Published: August 2024

A lower nutrient supply from Holstein (HOL) dams to beef fetuses than HOL fetuses has been demonstrated, but the underlying factors remain unclear. We investigated maternal, umbilical vein, and calf blood glucose and amino acid concentrations at calving, along with placental development at term, in HOL dams with similar fetuses (HOL‐HOL, n = 12), F1 crosses (HOL × Japanese Black [JB]; HOL‐F1, n = 4), JB fetuses (HOL‐JB, n = 7), and JB dams with similar fetuses (JB‐JB, n = 11). Calf birth weight, total cotyledonary weight, and surface area were greater in HOL‐HOL compared to JB‐JB or HOL‐JB (P < 0.05), whereas those of HOL‐F1 were similar. Blood amino acid concentrations in the umbilical veins and calves were similar among HOL‐HOL, HOL‐F1, and HOL‐JB. Calf blood glucose concentrations were lower in HOL‐F1 than HOL‐HOL (P < 0.05), despite similar maternal blood glucose levels. HOL‐JB exhibited higher maternal, umbilical vein, and calf blood glucose concentrations than JB‐JB (P < 0.05). Therefore, the glucose supply to the fetus may be inhibited in HOL‐F1 due to maternal‐fetal breed differences. Higher maternal blood glucose concentrations in HOL‐JB may result in elevated fetal glucose exposure, potentially affecting postnatal growth and metabolism.
Novel cathepsin C inhibitor, BI 1291583, intended for treatment of bronchiectasis: Phase I characterization in healthy volunteers
Authors: Badorrek Philipp , Diefenbach Claudia , Kögler Harald , Eleftheraki Anastasia , Seitz Friedeborg , Hohlfeld Jens M.
Published: August 2024

Novel treatments are needed to reduce inflammation, improve symptoms, address exacerbations, and slow disease progression in bronchiectasis. Cathepsin C (CatC) inhibition promises to achieve this through reduction of neutrophil‐derived serine protease (including neutrophil elastase [NE] and proteinase 3 [PR3]) activation. Here, we present the phase I characterization of the novel CatC inhibitor, BI 1291583. Five phase I trials of BI 1291583 in healthy subjects are presented: a single‐rising‐dose study (NCT03414008) and two multiple‐rising‐dose studies (NCT03868540 and NCT04866160) assessing the safety, tolerability, pharmacodynamics, and pharmacokinetics of BI 1291583; a food effect study (NCT03837964); and a drug–drug interaction study (NCT03890887) of BI 1291583 and itraconazole. BI 1291583 was safe and well tolerated across the doses tested in these trials. Most adverse events (AEs) were mild or moderate in intensity, with no serious AEs, AEs of special interest or deaths reported in any trial. Drug‐related skin exfoliation was not reported more frequently in subjects treated with BI 1291583 compared with placebo. BI 1291583 was readily absorbed, and pharmacokinetics were supra‐proportional over the dose ranges assessed. Additionally, BI 1291583 inhibited CatC in a dose‐dependent manner, inhibited downstream NE activity, and decreased PR3 levels. No food effect was observed. Co‐administration of multiple doses of itraconazole increased BI 1291583 exposure approximately twofold. Due to these promising phase I results, a multinational phase II program of BI 1291583 in adults with bronchiectasis is ongoing (Airleaf™ [NCT05238675], Clairafly™ [NCT05865886], and Clairleaf™ [NCT05846230]).
Assessing the impact of stricter drink driving policy on alcohol consumption in a population of Hanoi, Vietnam using wastewater analysis
Authors: Bui Thanh X. , Ngo Hieu K. T. , Vu Giang T. , Zheng Qiuda , Nguyen Dat M. , Hue Tran Thi Thanh , Binh Vu Ngan , Anh Nguyen Thi Kieu , Thai Phong K.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

On 1 January 2020, Vietnam introduced a new law with harsher fines and penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol. Reports of empty beer restaurants following this implementation suggested the new law has the potential to reduce population‐level alcohol consumption. This pilot study aims to quantify short‐term changes in alcohol consumption levels after the implementation of the new law and assess whether it could lead to a reduction in total alcohol consumption in the population.

Methods

Wastewater samples were collected from two sites along a sewage canal in Hanoi during two periods: Period 1 (15 December 2018 to 14 January 2019) and Period 2 (15 December 2019 to 14 January 2020). Ethyl sulfate, a specific metabolite of alcohol, was quantified to monitor the trend of alcohol consumption. Both interrupted time series and controlled interrupted time series approaches were utilised, with Period 1 and Period 2 serving as the control and intervention periods, respectively.

Results

Our analysis indicated that the implementation of the new law did not result in an immediate and significant reduction in alcohol consumption at the population level. Meanwhile, there was no significant difference in alcohol consumption between weekdays and weekends both before and after the implementation of the new law.

Discussion and Conclusions

Long‐term monitoring is needed to assess the impact of stricter DUI policy on alcohol consumption in the urban areas of Vietnam.
Disentangling the Influence of Phylogeny and Traits on Climatic Risk of European Butterflies
Authors: Gianuca Andros T. , Schweiger Oliver , Bini Luis Mauricio , Wiemers Martin , di Cavalcanti Victor Rocha , Diniz‐Filho José Alexandre , WallisDeVries Michiel F. , Zimmermann Niklaus E. , Settele Josef
Published: August 2024

Aim

The relative importance of traits and phylogeny to predict species extinction risk is unclear and it depends on which traits are measured and their phylogenetic conservatism. Here, we evaluate the power of functional traits, ecological characteristics, such as range size and specialization, and phylogeny to predict climatic risks in European butterflies.

Location

Europe.

Time Period

Distribution data from 1981 to 2002 was used to project range shifts up to 2080.

Major Taxa Studied

In total, 268 European butterfly species (Rhopalocera).

Methods

We extracted information on climatic risk for each species from the literature. Two hypothetical conditions were assumed: full climate tracking and no climate tracking. We used variation partitioning to quantify and disentangle the effects of phylogeny, four traits (wingspan, voltinism, overwintering and egg volume) and two ecological characteristics (range size and specialization) on climatic risk. We used Random Forest as an imputation method to predict climatic risk values for additional European butterfly species that have not been previously modelled.

Results

Range size and degree of specialization strongly predicted climatic risk of European butterflies, but only for no climate tracking scenarios. Overall, more generalist species have larger ranges and are less vulnerable to climate change. Furthermore, we found that phylogenetic information adds strong power to explain climatic risk, especially, but not exclusively for scenarios that assume full climate tracking.

Main Conclusions

Considering current scenarios of habitat fragmentation in Europe, it is likely that species with smaller ranges and high degree of specialization will be unable to track their climates and thus be more at risk. However, our results imply that assisting dispersal and colonization might allow small ranged species to cope with climate change. Our analysis also indicate that phylogeny can be used as a proxy of unmeasured traits to predict climatic risk under certain circumstances.
Do analysts’ gross margin forecasts influence manager's decisions to recognize inventory losses?
Authors: Jahan Nusrat , Sivadasan Padmakumar
Published: August 2024

Accounting standards require firms to write down their inventory when its market value (or net realizable value) drops below cost. Recognizing inventory write‐downs decreases gross margins and increases scrutiny of managers’ inventory management practices. Further, it is difficult for market participants to assess inventory balances. Therefore, managers often delay recognizing inventory losses. Compared with other analysts, analysts who issue disaggregated gross margin (GM) forecasts evaluate a firm's inventories more closely, which should motivate managers to recognize expected inventory losses. Consistent with this prediction, managers’ likelihood of recognizing an expected inventory loss increases as more analysts provide GM forecasts. However, the number of analysts issuing standalone earnings per share (EPS) or EPS and other disaggregated forecasts is not associated with inventory loss recognition. We address endogeneity concerns by documenting that firms are less likely to recognize an expected inventory loss after exogenous factors cause analysts to stop issuing GM forecasts for the firm. We contribute significantly to the literature by showing that analysts' GM forecasts are closely associated with managers’ timely inventory loss recognition. This insight bridges the gap between anecdotal evidence, which suggests analysts assess inventory carefully, and scholarly research indicating that analysts' forecasts may not fully capture the effects of inventory changes. Our findings suggest that managers act as if inventory management practices are more strictly monitored only when analysts issue GM forecasts.
Predictive significance of cardio ankle vascular index for the assessment of cardiovascular risk in hypertensive patients: A systematic review
Authors: Saravanan Chiranjeevee R. , Chowdhury Shubhayu R. , Inban Pugazhendi , Chandrasekaran Sai Harini , Pattani Himani H. , Santoshi Krupanagram , Bamba Hyma , Singh Gurmehar , Prajjwal Priyadarshi , Ranjan Raunak , Marsool Mohammed Dheyaa Marsool , Amir Omniat
Published: August 2024

Cardio‐ankle vascular index (CAVI) is an innovative indicator of large‐artery stiffness, which is evaluated by the pulse wave velocity (PWV) measurement. Mortality and morbidity due to cardiovascular diseases among the general public with high‐risk conditions such as hypertension are usually associated with arterial stiffness. CAVI modelizes the hazard of future cardiovascular events with standard risk factors. Additionally, the “European Society of Hypertension and Cardiology” included the aortic PWV assessment in managing hypertension in their updated guidelines in 2007. We conducted this systematic review to collect, summarize, and evaluate the evidence from relevant reported studies. A literature search of four databases was conducted comprehensively until February 2024. Cardiovascular events are the primary outcome of interest in this study, cardiovascular events that have been defined as major adverse cardiac events include “heart failure”, “stroke”, “myocardial infarction”, “cardiovascular deaths”, “stable angina pectoris”, “coronary revascularization”, and “unstable angina pectoris”. We included five studies with a 11 698 sample size in this systematic review. All five prospective studies investigated composite cardiovascular events as an outcome. Three of them revealed a statistically significant prediction ability of CAVI to assess Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Further analysis is required. Current evidence is insufficient to confirm the predictive power of CAVI in the assessment of cardiovascular risk in hypertensive patients. CAVI is modestly associated with incidents of CVD risk. It is necessary to conduct further studies to assess CAVI concerning CVD predictor measures in the masses and nations other than Asia.
Immigrant and minority parents' experiences in a neonatal intensive care unit: A meta‐ethnography review
Authors: Trajkovski Suza , Al‐Dabbas Mahmoud A. , Raman Shanti , Giannoutsos Nicolette , Langman Margaret , Schmied Virginia
Published: August 2024

Aims

To examine immigrant and minority parents' experiences of having a newborn infant in the neonatal intensive care unit and explore healthcare professionals' experiences in delivering care to immigrant and minority families.

Design

A meta‐ethnographic review informed by eMERGe guidelines.

Methods

We conducted a systematic literature review. Studies were included if they explored immigrant or minority parent experiences in neonatal intensive care units and health professional experiences delivering care to immigrant and minority families in neonatal intensive care. Reporting followed ENTREQ guidelines.

Data Sources

Database searches included CINAHL, MEDLINE, PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus and Google Scholar. Boolean search strategies were used to identify qualitative studies. No limitations on commencement date; the end date was 23rd August 2022. PRISMA guidelines used for screening and article quality assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute criteria for qualitative studies.

Results

Initial search yielded 2468 articles, and nine articles met criteria for inclusion. Three overarching themes were identified: (1) Overwhelming Emotions, (subthemes: Overwhelming Inadequacy; Cultural Expressions of Guilt; Not Belonging), (2) Circles of Support, (subthemes: Individual Level‐Spirituality; External Level‐Connecting with Family; Structured Peer‐to‐Peer Support), (3) Negotiating Relationships with Healthcare Professionals (subthemes: Connecting; Disconnected; Linguistic Barriers). Interactions between healthcare professionals and immigrant and minority parents were the strongest recurring theme.

Conclusions

There can be a mismatch between immigrant and minority families' needs and the service support provided, indicating improvements in neonatal intensive care are needed. Despite challenges, parents bring cultural and family strengths that support them through this time, and many neonatal intensive care staff provide culturally respectful care.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Professionals should be encouraged to identify and work with family strengths to ensure parents feel supported in the neonatal intensive care unit. Findings can inform policy and practice development to strengthen health professionals capabilities to support immigrant and minority families in neonatal units.

Reporting Method

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses checklists were used to report the screening process.
Identifying phenotypes in persons with temporomandibular disorders using latent class analyses
Authors: Julsvoll Elisabeth Heggem , Myhrvold Birgitte Lawaetz , Waagan Knut , Vøllestad Nina Køpke , Robinson Hilde Stendal
Published: August 2024

Background

The heterogeneity of persons with temporomandibular disorders (TMD) and the lack of effective treatments have called for a biopsychosocial model and the development of a more personalised treatment approach. Emphasis on phenotypes might be a beneficial approach.

Objective

Identifying phenotypes among persons with TMD using potential prognostic factors, including personal characteristics and responses to clinical tests. Additionally, examining the distribution of TMD diagnoses within the identified phenotypes.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study including 208 persons (85% females) seeking physiotherapy for problems in the temporomandibular area. All participants were examined clinically and answered questionnaires electronically. The phenotypes were identified using latent class analysis based on seven potential prognostic factors selected within pain, function and psychological domains. Table analysis was used to explore the distribution of TMD diagnoses within the identified phenotypes.

Results

Most participants fit into one of three identified phenotypes. Phenotype 1 (32%) was characterised by functional disability, low psychosocial scores and low risk for developing chronicity and future work disability; Phenotype 2 (29%) by parafunctional habits, low psychosocial score and seeking treatment to reduce pain; and Phenotype 3 (39%) by high levels of mental distress, fear avoidance and a large risk of future work disability. Intra‐articular disorders dominated Phenotype 1, myalgia and TMD‐related headache Phenotype 2, while Phenotype 3 included all the different TMD diagnoses.

Conclusion

The knowledge about the three identified phenotypes might be useful for clinicians treating persons with TMD and for the development of preventive strategies and more personalised treatment.
Complementing electoral democracy assessment: The Plebiscitary Electoral Democracy Index and its application to the Andean Community, 2003–2022
Authors: Paredes Ana Marcela
Published: August 2024

This study employs the V‐Dem database and proposes an alternative calculation of the regular Electoral Democracy Index by incorporating the Direct Popular Vote Index, a component of the Participatory Democracy Index. The result is the creation of the Plebiscitary Electoral Democracy Index. To validate this index proposal, the article conducts an empirical test focusing on the Andean Community countries over the past two decades that compares the existing Electoral Democracy Index with the new proposed index from 2003 to 2022. The findings reveal that the proposed index reflects a consistently lower level of democracy than that measured by the Electoral Democracy Index across all Andean cases. This research shows how incorporating participation indicators in assessing electoral democracy reveals distinct conclusions regarding the state of democracy than those from the previously established Electoral Democracy Index. The comparatively lower levels of democracy emphasize the importance of incorporating a participatory dimension in the Electoral Democracy Index to develop a more comprehensive and regionally nuanced approach to measuring democracy that can be applied to understand better the evolution of democracy everywhere.
MicroRNAs modulate SARS‐CoV‐2 infection of primary human hepatocytes by regulating the entry factors ACE2 and TMPRSS2
Authors: Khanal Rajendra , Heinen Natalie , Bogomolova Alexandra , Meister Toni L. , Herrmann Simon T. , Westhoven Saskia , Nocke Maximilian K. , Todt Daniel , Jockenhövel Freya , Klein Isabel M. , Hartmann Laura , Vondran Florian W. R. , Steinmann Eike , Zimmer Gert , Ott Michael , Brown Richard J. P. , Sharma Amar Deep , Pfaender Stephanie
Published: August 2024

Background and Aims

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS‐CoV‐2) preferentially infects the respiratory tract; however, several studies have implicated a multi‐organ involvement. Hepatic dysfunctions caused by SARS‐CoV‐2 infection have been increasingly recognized and described to correlate with disease severity. To elucidate molecular factors that could contribute towards hepatic infection, we concentrated on microRNAs (miRNAs), a class of small non‐coding RNAs that modulate various cellular processes and which are reported to be differentially regulated during liver injury. We aimed to study the infection of primary human hepatocytes (PHH) with SARS‐CoV‐2 and to evaluate the potential of miRNAs for modulating viral infection.

Methods

We analysed liver autopsies from a coronavirus disease 19 (COVID‐19)‐positive cohort for the presence of viral RNA using Nanopore sequencing. PHH were used for the infection with SARS‐CoV‐2. The candidate miRNAs targeting angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2) were identified using in silico approaches. To discover the potential regulatory mechanism, transfection experiments, qRT‐PCRs, western blots and luciferase reporter assays were performed.

Results

We could detect SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA in COVID‐19‐positive liver autopsies. We show that PHH express ACE2 and TMPRSS2 and can be readily infected with SARS‐CoV‐2, resulting in robust replication. Transfection of selected miRNA mimics reduced SARS‐CoV‐2 receptor expression and SARS‐CoV‐2 burden in PHH. In silico and biochemical analyses supported a potential direct binding of miR‐141‐3p to the SARS‐CoV‐2 genome.

Conclusion

We confirm that PHH are susceptible to SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and demonstrate selected miRNAs targeting SARS‐CoV‐2 entry factors and/or the viral genome reduce viral loads. These data provide novel insights into hepatic susceptibility to SARS‐CoV‐2 and associated dysfunctions in COVID‐19.
Dynamic influence of remittances on energy poverty eradication in Pakistan: A moderation analysis through consumption and investment
Authors: Bano Sadia , Khan Anwar , Murodova Gulnora
Published: August 2024

Energy poverty is a prevalent subject in Pakistan, and reducing it will accelerate the pace towards reaching targets of sustainable development goal 7 and carbon neutrality. Workers' remittances have proved to be a major income source in Pakistan, and it is not clear how they can be channeled to improve energy access and consumption to eradicate energy poverty. Therefore, this study is designed to investigate how remittances impact energy poverty in Pakistan, considering both weak (energy access and consumption) and strong (Multi‐Dimensional Energy Poverty Index [MDEPI]) forms of energy poverty. Data from 1990 to 2020 were gathered and analyzed using dynamic‐ARDL simulations to understand the empirical outcomes. The outcomes show that remittances effectively reduce MDEPI with a −0.056 coefficient. The results reveal that remittances reduce energy poverty through the consumption channel (−1.569); however, this relationship is ineffective in Pakistan. In the case of the weak form of energy poverty, the results supported the idea that remittances individually and through consumption and investment channels effectively alleviate energy poverty. Therefore, policies should be promoted to effectively and legally channel remittances to investment initiatives, which will build a vacuum for sustainable energy solutions and energy poverty eradication in Pakistan.
Peer attachment in adolescence: What are the individual and relational associated factors?
Authors: Therriault Danyka , Lemelin Jean‐Pascal , Toupin Jean , Déry Michèle
Published: August 2024

The quality of peer attachment in adolescence is an important determinant of psychosocial adjustment. To date, few clear conclusions can be drawn about the most important factors associated with the quality of peer attachment. This study aimed to identify the most important individual and relational factors associated with peer attachment quality, and to establish their relative contribution. Early adolescents (N = 634, 45.7% girls), 11.29 years on average at the first measurement time, participated in the longitudinal study. Individual and relational factors were measured at T1; parent and peer attachment quality were measured at T2, 2 years later. First, a multiple linear regression analysis was performed using the global score for peer attachment as the outcome variable. Second, a path model, including the three specific attachment dimensions (trust, communication, and alienation), was tested. The invariance of the models by sex was also examined. The analyses showed that peer attachment was associated positively with the adolescent–parent attachment relationship, the adolescent's age, as well as the teacher–student relationship, and associated negatively with the presence of internalizing behavior problems and social rejection. These variables helped explain 21.3% of the total variance. Give or take a few nuances, these same variables were also related to the three specific peer attachment dimensions. Sex differences were observed for the associated factors of these specific dimensions. This study highlights the importance of certain relational variables, in both family and school contexts, as correlates of peer attachment.
Regret Analysis of Shrinking Horizon Model Predictive Control
Authors: Ambrosino Michele , Castroviejo-Fernandez Miguel , Leung Jordan , Kolmanovsky Ilya
Published: August 2024

This paper analyzes the suboptimal implementation of shrinking horizon model predictive control (SHMPC) when a fixed number of solver iterations and a warm-start are utilized at each time-step to solve the underlying optimal control problem (OCP). We derive bounds on the loss of performance (regret) and on the difference between suboptimal SHMPC and optimal solutions. This analysis provides insights and practical guidelines for the implementation of SHMPC under computational limitations. A numerical example of axisymmetric spacecraft spin stabilization is reported. The suboptimal implementation of SHMPC is shown to be capable of steering the system from an initial state into a known terminal set while satisfying control constraints.
Effects of Walking-Only Intervention on Physical Function, Fall-Related Outcomes, and Health-Related Quality of Life in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ishigaki Tomoya , Misu Shogo , Miyashita Toshinori , Matsumoto Daisuke , Kamiya Midori , Okamae Akio , Ogawa Tatsuya , Ihira Hikaru , Taniguchi Yoshiaki , Ohnuma Takeshi , Chibana Tomohisa , Morikawa Natsu , Ikezoe Tome , Makizako Hyuma
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to determine the effects of walking-only intervention (walking was the only exercise in which people participated) on physical function, fall-related outcomes, and health-related quality of life in community-dwelling older adults. We conducted a systematic search across five electronic databases, assessing risk of bias using Minds Manual for Guideline Development. Meta-analyses were performed, and pooled standardized mean differences were calculated. Nine studies (a total of 1,309 participants) were included, showing that walking-only interventions improved walking endurance (standardized mean difference: 1.11, 95% confidence interval: [0.08, 2.15]) and health-related quality of life (standardized mean difference: 0.71, 95% confidence interval: [0.18, 1.25]). However, there were no significant improvements in other outcomes. The certainty of the evidence based on the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach for all outcomes was graded as very low, primarily due to significant inconsistency and imprecision. Our results suggest that walking-only intervention can be effective for enhancing walking endurance and health-related quality of life for community-dwelling older adults. Further studies are required to investigate the effects of walking-only intervention. This need stems from the limited number of randomized controlled trials, heterogeneous intervention settings and results, and the very low certainty of the evidence.
Black Hair Is a Safe Sport Issue!: Black Aesthetics, Access, Inclusion, and Resistance
Authors: Joseph Janelle , Pennock Kaleigh , Brown Shalom
Published: August 2024

This paper examines the intersection of Black hair aesthetics and three dimensions of safe sport: environmental and physical safety, relational safety, and optimizing sport experiences. Black hair, a fundamental aspect of cultural identity for people of African descent, has been historically stigmatized; an issue that extends into sports yet remains unexplored. Through a predominantly Canadian perspective, we define Black hair aesthetics as encompassing various textures and styles related to real and potential risks of injury, inattention, and disregard in sport contexts. We contend that Black hair is a safe sport issue as it intertwines with risk, safety, and human rights. By exploring Black hair stylization, we uncover its political dimensions and its ability to challenge colonial norms that impact sporting access and success.
High-fat feeding drives the intestinal production and assembly of C
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ceramides in chylomicrons
Authors: Mah Michael SM , Cao Enyuan , Anderson Dovile , Escott Alistair , Tegegne Surafel , Gracia Gracia , Schmitz Joel , Brodesser Susanne , Zaph Colby , Creek Darren J. , Hong Jiwon , Windsor John A. , Phillips Anthony RJ , Trevaskis Natalie L. , Febbraio Mark A. , Turpin-Nolan Sarah M.
Published: August 2024

Consumption of a diet rich in saturated fat increases lipid absorption from the intestine, assembly into chylomicrons, and delivery to metabolic tissues via the lymphatic and circulatory systems. Accumulation of ceramide lipids, composed of sphingosine and a fatty acid, in metabolic tissues contributes to the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes mellitus and cancer. Using a mesenteric lymph duct cannulated rat model, we showed that ceramides are generated by the intestine and assembled into chylomicrons, which are transported via the mesenteric lymphatic system. A lipidomic screen of intestinal-derived chylomicrons identified a diverse range of fatty acid, sphingolipid, and glycerolipid species that have not been previously detected in chylomicrons, including the metabolically deleterious C
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ceramide that increased in response to high-fat feeding in rats and human high-lipid meal replacement enteral feeding. In conclusion, high-fat feeding increases the export of intestinal-derived C
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ceramide in chylomicrons, identifying a potentially unknown mechanism through which ceramides are transported systemically to contribute to metabolic dysfunction.