bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Who will teach that class? Perspectives on teacher shortages from English and Australian vocational education and training sectors
Authors: Misselke Louise , Schmidt Teressa , Nakar Sonal , Khan Sardana Islam
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a review of contemporary perspectives, policies, and practices relating to reported vocational education and training (VET) teacher recruitment and retention challenges, with a particular focus on England and Australia.

Design/methodology/approach

This position piece discusses the topic from a transnational perspective by reviewing the relevant literature and examining the impact of policies and practices in England and Australia.

Findings

The paper finds that there is a paucity of empirical research relating to VET teacher shortages, but that globally, experience in the sector suggests there are challenges in recruiting and retaining the qualified VET teaching workforce required to address current and future training needs. It recommends that further research is undertaken with an international approach to better understand the problem from the perspective of VET teachers, leaders, and education institutions, and to identify potential solutions.

Research limitations/implications

The paper does not report on empirical research but suggests that further studies are required to better understand the problem and identify potential solutions based on the respective socioeconomic, demographic, and policy contexts.

Originality/value

While there are studies examining VET and VET teaching from the perspectives of quality, reputation, and esteem, few examine the issue and impact of VET teacher shortages, or the challenges of VET teacher recruitment and retention in the contemporary and comparable contexts of Australia and England.
Exploring online presence: a study of Google Scholar and Scopus for assessing the visibility of LIS faculties in central universities of India
Authors: Munshi Shamim Aktar , Barsha Sayantoni , Pal Anjan , Faizan Mohd
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the Google Scholar (GS) and Scopus citations profiles of library and information science (LIS) faculty members employed in central universities in India to determine their research online visibility.

Design/methodology/approach

The data was collected through manual searches conducted on GS and Scopus profiles by the end of August 2023, using the names of the faculty members along with their affiliations. The determination of the minimum sample size for each was calculated based on Cochran’s formula.

Findings

The study revealed that out of 104 LIS faculty members from 19 central universities, 78 (75.0%) faculty members have profiles on GS, while 61 (58.6%) of them are on Scopus. The study found that the faculty members have a substantial number of publications on GS, while their publication count on Scopus appears comparatively lower. The results suggest that certain faculty members have produced a modest number of publications but have received a substantial number of citations compared to their colleagues. Consequently, it can be inferred that there is no straightforward correlation between the volume of publications and citation metrics.

Research limitations/implications

As the study exclusively focused on LIS faculty members working within central universities in India who have profiles on GS and Scopus, the researchers did not reach all LIS faculty members in India.

Practical implications

The significance of this research lies in its potential of insights into research productivity and its impact, which are crucial aspects of academia. The study provides valuable insights for individual researchers, LIS departments, institutes and universities in India and other countries to enhance their research performance and foster collaboration by establishing new research guidelines.

Originality/value

There have been no published research studies regarding the GS and Scopus citation metrics concerning LIS faculty members across all central universities in India.
Structural transformation in Morocco: an early tertiarization
Authors: Ibourk Aomar , Elouaourti Zakaria
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper examines the dynamics of structural transformation in Morocco since 1970 by analyzing input-output tables expressed in terms of employment and output levels across 24 sectors.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs a twofold methodological approach. Firstly, it examines the evolution of sectoral employment shares over time using World Bank data. Secondly, it utilizes Input-Output analysis to examine structural shifts in Morocco's economy, focusing on sector-specific output and employment data. The primary data source is the Eora Global Supply Chain Database, covering the years 1970, 1980, 1990, 2000, and 2015. Additionally, to transition from production-based to employment-based input-output tables, the study leverages employment and output data from the Penn World Tables to calculate the diagonal labor coefficient matrix.

Findings

First, our analysis reveals that Morocco's economic transformation has been slower compared to high-income countries. Structural changes, as evidenced by the evolution of employment shares by sector, show a gradual decline in agricultural employment share over the period 1991-2019, accompanied by a shift towards the services sector. This shift, driven by favorable conditions in the services sector and increased capital use in agriculture, has resulted in premature deindustrialization. The industrial sector's employment share has remained stable due to its capital-intensive nature. Second, Input-Output analysis reveals a pronounced premature tertiarization of the Moroccan economy. Between 1990 and 2000, the tertiary sector saw a dramatic rise in both backward (167%) and forward (68%) linkages, while the primary sector's backward linkages fell by 33% during the same period. Although the primary sector’s linkages increased by 10% from 2000 to 2015, the secondary sector experienced a consistent decline in backward linkages, dropping 12% from 1990 to 2000 and an additional 10% from 2000 to 2015. Employment linkage analysis further underscores this shift, with a 12% increase in the tertiary sector’s backward linkages from 1990 to 2000, contrasted by significant declines in the primary (51%) and secondary (7%) sectors. These trends highlight an unsustainable move towards services without concurrent industrial development, challenging balanced economic development.

Originality/value

As it is unanimous, the structural transformation of Morocco remains relatively slow and characterized by a shift of the labor factor from the primary sector to the tertiary sector, with a limited job creation by the secondary sector considered as the pillar of any structural transformation. This paper advances the field of research on structural transformation by elucidating the premature tertiarization of the Moroccan economy and the slowness pace at which the transformation of its economic fabric is occurring, thereby filling the empirical gap.
The role of monetary and non-monetary shocks in children’s schooling in the presence of credit market imperfection in Cameroon
Authors: Ewondo Mbebi Olivier , Nzepang Fabrice , Eboue Romeal , Ewane Nkoumba Carlos Rigobert
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper examines the determinants of children’s schooling under imperfect credit market conditions in Cameroon, with a particular focus on the role of monetary and non-monetary shocks.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses microeconomic data from the fourth Cameroonian Household Survey (ECAM IV) conducted in 2014 by the National Institute of Statistics (INS) and an instrumental variable Probit model to demonstrate its point.

Findings

The results show that uncertainty about household income as measured by transitory income and declining household income decreases the probability of children attending school in Cameroon. The same is true for increasing household size. Nevertheless, access to the credit market is a factor in household resilience to shocks.

Originality/value

The purpose of this article is to contribute to the identification of the determinants of children’s schooling in Cameroon in a situation of credit market imperfection. The aim is to examine the influence of different household vulnerability factors and not only income shocks, which have long been considered the dominant factor.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-01-2024-0028
The nexus between management control systems, firm performance, green innovation and social media networking in Indonesian real estate companies
Authors: Farida Ida , Setiawan Doddy
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the correlation between Management Control Systems, Green Innovation, Social Media Networks, and Company Performance in medium-sized construction and real estate firm in Indonesia.

Design/methodology/approach

This research method uses quantitative approach. The sample selection technique uses simple random sampling. The analytical method in this study uses structural equation models based on variance. Statistical test tool used, is Smart PLS 3.0.

Findings

The management control systems have a significant and positive impact on social media networks, green innovation, and company performance in the upper-middle-class construction and real estate businesses in Java. Furthermore, social media networks and green innovation were found to mediate the strong relationship between management control systems and firm performance in medium-sized construction and real estate businesses in Java.

Research limitations/implications

This research should provide a detailed, technical, and structured explanation of how companies assess suitability standards for implementing green innovation in Indonesia’s construction and real estate sectors.

Social implications

The finding emphasize the importance of the management control system in enhancing firm performance. If, the elements of the management control system are met or adequate, it can improve the performance of those in charge, leading to satisfactory performance.

Originality/value

This finding is the first of its kind in Indonesia. It will contribute to shaping future development policies for government and private projects, ensuring they are more advance and environmentally conscious.
Locus of control, academic procrastination and academic performance amongst university students: moderating role of parental involvement
Authors: Bahl Regina , Gupta Shubhangi , Tanwar Kamini , Khan Zubair , Hakak Irfan Ahmad , Amin Faseeh
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Academic procrastination, characterized by the act of postponing the completion of an assignment, is a prevalent behaviour observed among students worldwide and has significant consequences for academic achievement. This study investigates the influence of academic procrastination on academic achievement in university students. This study also determines the mediating effect of locus of control and the moderating effect of parental involvement on the relationship between academic procrastination and academic achievement.

Design/methodology/approach

This work utilized a cross-sectional and causal research design. The study used a survey in English to obtain responses from university students within the Northern Indian Region. The study received 539 responses from participants and 507 were used after data cleaning. This study used structural equation modelling using AMOS 25.0 for hypothesis testing.

Findings

The regression analysis using structural equation modelling showed that the external locus of control leads to academic procrastination, whereas the internal locus of control negatively affects academic procrastination. In addition, academic procrastination negatively influences academic achievement, emphasizing procrastination’s adverse effects on students’ performance. Moreover, academic procrastination mediates and parental involvement moderates the association between locus of control and academic achievement.

Originality/value

The present study investigated a unique conceptual framework involving locus of control, parental involvement, academic procrastination and academic accomplishment. The study makes an essential contribution to educational psychology and also enhances earlier theoretical frameworks concerning antecedents of academic accomplishments in university students.
Does employee treatment affect trade credit? An international evidence
Authors: Al-Maqarih Ali , Bennasr Hamdi , Anwer Zaheer , Karoui Lotfi
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the linkage of employee treatment and trade credit for a sample of 45 countries from 2003 to 2018. It explores the trade credit from a receivable perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

The estimations are performed using panel regression with fixed effects for both country and year. A batter of robustness tests is also performed to validate the findings.

Findings

The results reveal a positive and highly significant relation between employee treatment and trade credit. The authors observe that firms from labor-intensive and highly competitive industries are likelier to extend trade credit to their customers. The authors also find that firms from developed countries are more likely to extend trade credit to their customers.

Practical implications

First, to boost trade credit, the firms need to materialize fair employee treatment. Second, firms from labor-intensive firms and highly competitive industries need to care more about employee treatment which promotes trade credit.

Originality/value

The findings offer novel evidence of the relationship between employee treatment and trade receivables.
Social media and privacy concerns: exploring university student’s privacy concerns in TikTok platform in Vietnam
Authors: Duong Hoai Lan , Tran Minh Tung , Vo Thi Kim Oanh , Tran Thi Kim Cuc
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the extent of personal privacy concerns expressed by university students in Vietnam while using TikTok, the influence of peer interactions and social norms on privacy attitudes and behaviors and the strategies used by university students in Vietnam to mitigate privacy risks on TikTok.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative approach using semi-structured interviews was used to gather data on the following: the degree to which Vietnamese university students express concerns about their personal privacy while using TikTok; how peer interactions and social norms influence privacy attitudes and behaviors; and the strategies these students use to mitigate privacy risks on the platform.

Findings

Findings indicate that although university students exhibit a relatively low level of concern regarding their personal privacy on TikTok, peer influences and societal norms significantly shape their attitudes and behaviors on the platform. Moreover, students use several strategies to mitigate privacy risks, such as selective content sharing and refraining from engaging with unknown links.

Practical implications

These insights provide valuable implications for the development of targeted interventions and educational initiatives aimed at fostering a more privacy-conscious TikTok user community among university students in Vietnam.

Originality/value

This research fills a critical gap in the existing literature by focusing on the influence of social norms and peer influences on privacy attitudes and behaviors on social media platforms. While prior studies have explored various factors impacting privacy concerns on social media, the role of social dynamics has been understudied. Moreover, the research specifically addresses the lack of investigation into privacy concerns on TikTok, a platform rapidly gaining popularity among younger demographics.
Responding to the ripple effect from systemic disruptions: empirical evidence from the semiconductor shortage during COVID-19
Authors: Kravchenko Kateryna , Gruchmann Tim , Ivanova Marina , Ivanov Dmitry
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The ripple effect (i.e. disruption propagation in networks) belongs to one of the central pillars in supply chain resilience and viability research, constituting a type of systemic disruption. A considerable body of knowledge has been developed for the last two decades to examine the ripple effect triggered by instantaneous disruptions, e.g. earthquakes or factory fires. In contrast, far less research has been devoted to study the ripple effect under long-term disruptions, such as in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

This study qualitatively analyses secondary data on the ripple effects incurred in automotive and electronics supply chains. Through the analysis of five distinct case studies illustrating operational practices used by companies to cope with the ripple effect, we uncover a disruption propagation mechanism through the supply chains during the semiconductor shortage in 2020–2022.

Findings

Applying a theory elaboration approach, we sequence the triggers for the ripple effects induced by the semiconductor shortage. Second, the measures to mitigate the ripple effect employed by automotive and electronics companies are delineated with a cost-effectiveness analysis. Finally, the results are summarised and generalised into a causal loop diagram providing a more complete conceptualisation of long-term disruption propagation.

Originality/value

The results add to the academic discourse on appropriate mitigation strategies. They can help build scenarios for simulation and analytical models to inform decision-making as well as incorporate systemic risks from ripple effects into a normal operations mode. In addition, the findings provide practical recommendations for implementing short- and long-term measures during long-term disruptions.
Despotism on the shop floor: Foreign company labour governance in Ethiopia's industrial park
Authors: Tesema Yonas
Published: September 2024

In recent years, Ethiopia has become a prime destination for labour‐intensive, export‐oriented manufacturing industries by virtue of its favourable investment climate and cheap labour. This article examines the labour governance and disciplinary strategies of foreign companies in Ethiopia's industrial park, focusing on the Blue Apparel Company (BAC) in the Bole Lemi Industrial Park, Addis Ababa. Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork conducted from August 2021 to August 2022, the study reveals how relaxed labour regulations and the absence of trade unions enable foreign firms to enforce strict, profit‐driven governance. The analysis highlights despotic management practices, hierarchical power dynamics and their impact on local workers. The findings shed light on the intricacies of labour control in globalized production regimes and highlight the challenges workers encounter in emerging economies.
Dimensions of polarization, realignment and electoral participation in Europe: The mobilizing power of the cultural dimension
Authors: LE CORRE JURATIC MORGAN
Published: September 2024

Over the past two decades, extreme parties have gained increasing electoral success in European party systems. While this party polarization is often associated with its negative consequences, recent studies have suggested its potential benefit for remobilizing the electorate by offering clear political alternatives. However, it remains unclear which groups of citizens may be mobilized by broader supply and whether this positive effect is generalizable to multiparty systems. This article contributes to this debate arguing that the system multidimensionality matters when assessing the relationship between polarization and voter turnout. Through a multilevel analysis and two studies at the aggregate and individual levels, this article provides evidence that party polarization is associated with increased turnout only when parties polarize on the cultural dimension of party competition. This effect is moderated by the party system unidimensionality and mobilizes voters at large, regardless of their level of extremism, political awareness or partisanship. These findings support previous research suggesting a ‘realignment’ of party systems, meaning that the main line of political conflict for parties and voters is shifting towards the cultural dimension of party competition across Europe.
Curcumin‐mediated photodynamic treatment to extend the postharvest shelf‐life of strawberries
Authors: Seididamyeh Maral , Netzel Michael E. , Mereddy Ram , Sultanbawa Yasmina
Published: September 2024

This study investigated the potential use of curcumin‐mediated photodynamic treatment as a postharvest decontamination technique to reduce microbial load and growth and therefore extend the shelf life of strawberries. Curcumin was applied on strawberries, followed by illumination and storage at 4°C for 16 days. Strawberries were evaluated for decay, microbial load, and physicochemical properties such as weight loss, color, and firmness during storage. The findings revealed that curcumin‐mediated photodynamic treatment effectively reduced the decay incidence and severity in strawberries, with 20% less decay occurrence compared to untreated fruits, which was shown to be dependent on curcumin concentration. While a complete reduction in microbial load was observed upon treatment, microbial growth remained unaffected throughout storage. Moreover, photodynamic treatment did not show any adverse impact on color properties and firmness of strawberries. This eco‐friendly technique presents potential for fruit's shelf‐life extension, although optimization of treatment parameters and photodynamic unit design seems to be essential.
Intraindividual variability of semen quality, proteome, and sncRNA profiles in a healthy cohort of young adults
Authors: Sergeyev Oleg , Bezuglov Vitalik , Soloveva Natalia , Smigulina Luidmila , Denisova Tatiana , Dikov Yury , Shtratnikova Victoria , Vavilov Nikita , Williams Paige L. , Korrick Susan , Lee Mary M. , Zgoda Victor , Hauser Russ , Suvorov Alexander
Published: September 2024

Background

Within‐subject variability of semen parameters and molecular components of ejaculates in young men remains poorly understood.

Objectives

To investigate intraindividual variability (IIV) of semen parameters and molecular markers in repeated ejaculates from young men.

Materials and methods

Semen parameters were assessed in samples collected 6–8 days apart from 164 18–19‐year old participants of the Russian Children's Study, a prospective cohort. Subsets of paired samples were used for label‐free quantitation and targeted mass‐spectrometry of proteins in seminal plasma (SP) and seminal extracellular vesicles (EVs), and for small non‐coding RNA (sncRNA) profiling in EVs and spermatozoa using RNA‐seq. The mean difference between two ejaculates, within‐subject variation, intraclass correlation, and concordance correlation were used to assess IIV for all parameters. Low variability with high reproducibility and high reliability was considered if CVw < 15% and ICC > 0.90, respectively.

Results

Analytical variability was low for all investigated parameters in technical replicates. IIV was assessed for basic semen parameters and proteins in SPs and EVs: 319 and 777 proteins, respectively, using untargeted analysis; 9 and 10 proteins using targeted quantification. We also described the IIV for sncRNA, including microRNA, piwi‐interacting RNA, tRNA, and tRNA‐derived small RNA (tsRNA) in EVs (409 sncRNA and 78 tsRNA) and in spermatozoa (265 sncRNA and 15 tsRNA). We identified 22 and 27 non‐overlapping proteins in SP and EVs, respectively, and 46 and 9 sncRNA, including 5 and 0 tsRNA in seminal EVs and spermatozoa, respectively, with low variability. The fatty acid synthase (FAS) had the lowest IIV in both media in targeted protein quantification.

Discussion

We identified a number of proteins and sncRNA with low variability among 111 proteins, 176 sncRNA, and 12 tsRNA which were previously suggested as biomarkers of male fertility and reproductive outcomes: lactotransferrin, cysteine‐rich secretory protein 3, alpha‐1‐antichymotrypsin, epididymal sperm‐binding protein 1, glutathione S‐transferase Mu 3, alpha‐1‐acid glycoprotein 2, serum amyloid P‐component, aminopeptidase N, neprilysin, FAS, and miR‐10b‐3p, miR‐122‐5p, miR‐205‐5p, miR‐222‐3p, miR‐34c‐5p, miR‐509‐3‐5p, miR‐888‐5p, miR‐892a, miR‐363‐3p, miR‐941, miR‐146a‐5p, miR‐744‐5p.

Conclusion

These molecules have low IIV and may be promising candidate biomarkers of male fertility and reproductive health.
Trading in troubled times: The impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic, military coup, and Chinese border closure on the Kachin amber industry
Authors: Dan Seng Lawn , Rippa Alessandro
Published: September 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic and the 2021 military coup have dramatically affected the lives and livelihoods of communities across Myanmar. Border areas in the north of the country also suffered from the prolonged closure of the Chinese border due to PRC COVID containment measures. The city of Ruili, the main trading hub between the two countries, witnessed one of China's strictest series of lockdowns, and its border with Myanmar remained largely closed for over 1,000 days. This impacted not only cross‐border businesses, but also forced thousands of temporary migrants to return to Myanmar. To address the impacts of those multiple and overlapping crises, this paper investigates the case of Kachin amber: a gemstone extracted in Kachin State's Hukawng valley, in the northernmost part of the country, which has generated significant business with China since the early 2010s. Over the past decade, many in Kachin State became involved in the amber business, from mining to polishing and trading, and a large marketplace had been set up in the outskirts of Myitkyina to facilitate the trade with China. Based on interviews with miners and traders conducted in 2021–2022, in both Myitkyina and the Hukawng valley, this paper provides an initial assessment of the impact of COVID‐19, the coup, and border closure on the amber industry in Kachin State.
Is there a role for eltrombopag drug levels in paediatric immune thrombocytopenia management?
Authors: Lo Clara
Published: September 2024

Paediatric immune thrombocytopenia treatment was revolutionized with the advent of the thrombopoietin mimetics romiplostim and eltrombopag. For eltrombopag, dosing recommendations have been based on patients' ages (with dose reductions for those with hepatic impairment and for some of East Asian ethnicity) and titrated based on platelet counts and adverse drug reactions. However, it is clear that identical eltrombopag dosing for paediatric patients can result in variable side effects and platelet counts, raising the question as to whether variable eltrombopag plasma concentrations are responsible for these differing drug responses.

Commentary on: Dong et al. Exploratory study on the individualized application of eltrombopag in paediatric immune thrombocytopenia guided by therapeutic drug monitoring. Br J Haematol 2024; 205:1930‐1937.
Luteolin as potential treatment for Huntington's disease: Insights from a transgenic mouse model
Authors: Mohammed Abuelnor , Ramadan Azza , Elnour Asim Ahmed , Saeed Ali Awadallah Ali Mohamed , Al Mazrouei Nadia , Alsulami Fahad T. , Alqarni Yousef Saeed , Menon Vineetha , Amoodi Abdulla Al , Abdalla Sami Fatehi
Published: September 2024

Aims

The study aimed to evaluate the potential benefits of luteolin treatment in Huntington's disease (HD), an inherited progressive neurodegenerative disorder.

Methods

HD N171‐82Q transgenic and WT mice received luteolin or vehicle for treatment at 6 weeks of age. The mice's body weight changes and survival rates were monitored throughout the study, and a series of motor functional tests were conducted. Serum level of the marker NfL was also determined. Immunohistochemical staining and western blotting were utilized to assess the expression of huntingtin aggregates.

Results

Luteolin treatment enhanced survival and prevented weight loss in HD mice compared to the vehicle‐treated HD group. Furthermore, the luteolin‐treated HD mice exhibited enhanced motor coordination and balance and significantly reduced motor dysfunction. Also, luteolin decreased serum NfL levels in HD mice. Notably, the accumulation of huntingtin aggregates was significantly reduced in the brain's cortex, hippocampus, and striatum of luteolin‐treated HD mice compared to the vehicle‐treated HD group.

Conclusion

Luteolin holds promise as a therapeutic agent for improving survival outcomes, managing motor dysfunction, and reducing huntingtin aggregates in HD. The findings are of significance as currently, there are no approved therapeutic interventions that reverse HD pathology or slow down its progression.
Cytomegalovirus Post‐Prophylaxis Surveillance in High‐Risk Kidney and Liver Recipients Prevents CMV End‐Organ Disease and Ganciclovir‐Resistance
Authors: Jorgenson Margaret R. , Meyer Ethan , Leverson Glen E. , Descourouez Jillian L. , Saddler Christopher M. , Smith Jeannina A. , Rice John P. , Mandelbrot Didier A. , Odorico Jon S.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Evaluate cytomegalovirus (CMV) post‐prophylaxis surveillance in high‐risk (D+/R‐) kidney and liver transplant recipients.

Methods

Adult D+/R‐ patients were included if transplanted between 6/1/15 and 11/30/22 and divided into a pre‐CMV‐stewardship‐era (6/1/15–5/31/18), CMV‐stewardship‐era (6/1/18–6/30/20), and a surveillance‐era (7/1/2020–11/30/2022) then followed through 12 months. The primary objective was to evaluate CMV‐related outcomes. The secondary objective was to assess graft and patient survival by era.

Results

There were 328 patients in the study period; 133 in the pre‐stewardship‐era, 103 in the stewardship‐era, and 92 in the surveillance‐era.

Replication rates in the surveillance‐era were significantly higher, as anticipated due to increased sampling (pre 38.4%, stewardship 33.0%, surveillance 52.2%, p = 0.02). Time from transplant to first replication was similar (pre 214.0 ± 79.0 days, stewardship 231.1 ± 65.5, surveillance 234.9 ± 61.4, p = 0.29). CMV viral load (VL) at first detection, maximum‐VL, and incidence of VL > 100 000 IU/mL were numerically lower in the surveillance era, although not statistically significant. CMV end‐organ disease (p < 0.0001) and ganciclovir‐resistance (p = 0.002) were significantly lower in the surveillance era than in both previous eras.

Rejection was not different between eras (p = 0.4). Graft (p = 0.0007) and patient survival (p = 0.008) were significantly improved in the surveillance era.

Conclusions

Post‐prophylaxis surveillance significantly reduced CMV end‐organ disease and resistance. Despite observing increased replication rates in the surveillance era, rejection was not significantly different and there was no graft loss or patient mortality at 12 months.
Optimal bowel preparation for colonoscopy
Authors: Tamai Naoto , Sumiyama Kazuki
Published: September 2024

There is robust evidence to indicate a strong correlation between the bowel preparation status and adenoma detection rate (ADR), which directly impacts the incidence and mortality rate of postcolonoscopy colorectal cancer. Therefore, improving bowel preparation has been of increasing interest. In Japan, commercially available bowel preparation agents include polyethylene glycol, oral sodium sulfate, sodium picosulfate‐magnesium citrate, magnesium citrate, and oral sodium phosphate; each has its own strengths and limitations. The timing of administration can also influence the efficacy of bowel preparation and patient tolerability. Furthermore, meta‐analyses have suggested predictive factors for inadequate bowel preparation. A detailed understanding of these factors could contribute to reducing the need for repeat colonoscopy within 1 year, as recommended for patients with inadequate bowel preparation. Recent advancements, such as oral sulfate tablets, present promising alternatives with higher patient satisfaction and ADRs than traditional methods. Achieving optimal bowel preparation requires enhanced instructions, individualized regimens, and a comprehensive understanding of patient backgrounds and the characteristics of various bowel preparation agents. This article provides a concise overview of the current status and advancements in bowel preparation for enhancing the quality and safety of colonoscopy.
Causal relationship between key genes and metabolic dysfunction‐associated fatty liver disease risk mediated by immune cells: A Mendelian randomization and mediation analysis
Authors: Feng Gong , He Na , Gao Jing , Li Xiao‐Cheng , Zhang Fen‐Na , Liu Cheng‐Cheng , Targher Giovanni , Byrne Christopher D. , Mi Man , Zheng Ming‐Hua , Ye Feng
Published: September 2024

Aim

Non‐invasive diagnostics for metabolic dysfunction–associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) remain challenging. We aimed to identify novel key genes as non‐invasive biomarkers for MAFLD, elucidate causal relationships between biomarkers and MAFLD and determine the role of immune cells as potential mediators.

Materials and Methods

Utilizing published transcriptome data of patients with biopsy‐proven MAFLD, we applied linear models for microarray data, least absolute shrinkage and selector operation (LASSO) regressions and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses to identify and validate biomarkers for MAFLD. Using the expression quantitative trait loci database and a cohort of 778 614 Europeans, we used Mendelian randomization to analyse the causal relationships between key biomarkers and MAFLD. Additionally, mediation analysis was performed to examine the involvement of 731 immunophenotypes in these relationships.

Results

We identified 31 differentially expressed genes, and LASSO regression showed three hub genes, IGFBP2, PEG10, and P4HA1, with area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curve of 0.807, 0.772 and 0.791, respectively, for identifying MAFLD. The model of these three genes had an AUROC of 0.959 and 0.800 in the development and validation data sets, respectively. This model was also validated using serum‐based enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay data from MAFLD patients and control subjects (AUROC: 0.819, 95% confidence interval: 0.736–0.902). PEG10 was associated with an increased MAFLD risk (odds ratio = 1.106, p = 0.032) via inverse variance–weighted analysis, and about 30% of this risk was mediated by the percentage of CD11c + CD62L– monocytes.

Conclusions

The MAFLD panels have good diagnostic accuracy, and the causal link between PEG10 and MAFLD was mediated by the percentage of CD11c + CD62L– monocytes.
A new motile animal with implications for the evolution of axial polarity from the Ediacaran of South Australia
Authors: Evans Scott D. , Hughes Ian V. , Hughes Emily B. , Dzaugis Peter W. , Dzaugis Matthew P. , Gehling James G. , García‐Bellido Diego C. , Droser Mary L.
Published: September 2024

Fossils of the Ediacara Biota preserve the oldest evidence for complex, macroscopic animals. Most are difficult to constrain phylogenetically, however, the presence of rare, derived groups suggests that many more fossils from this period represent extant groups than are currently appreciated. One approach to recognize such early animals is to instead focus on characteristics widespread in animals today, for example multicellularity, motility, and axial polarity. Here, we describe a new taxon, Quaestio simpsonorum gen. et sp. nov. from the Ediacaran of South Australia. Quaestio is reconstructed with a thin external membrane connecting more resilient tissues with anterior‐posterior polarity, left‐right asymmetry and tentative evidence for dorsoventral differentiation. Associated trace fossils indicate an epibenthic and motile lifestyle. Our results suggest that Quaestio was a motile eumetazoan with a body plan not previously recognized in the Ediacaran, including definitive evidence of chirality. This organization, combined with previous evidence for axial patterning in a variety of other Ediacara taxa, demonstrates that metazoan body plans were well established in the Precambrian.
Sequence analysis, homology modeling, tissue expression, and potential functions of seven putative acetylcholinesterases in the spider Cupiennius salei
Authors: Liu Hongxia , Jang Jinwon , French Andrew S. , Torkkeli Päivi H.
Published: September 2024

Acetylcholine esterases (AChEs) are essential enzymes in cholinergic synapses, terminating neurotransmission by hydrolysing acetylcholine. While membrane bound AChEs at synaptic clefts efficiently perform this task, soluble AChEs are less stable and effective, but function over broader areas. In vertebrates, a single gene produces alternatively spliced forms of AChE, whereas invertebrates often have multiple genes, producing both enzyme types. Despite their significance as pesticide targets, the physiological roles of invertebrate AChEs remain unclear. Here, we characterized seven putative AChEs in the wandering spider, Cupiennius salei, a model species for neurophysiological studies. Sequence analyses and homology modeling predicted CsAChE7 as the sole stable, membrane‐bound enzyme functioning at synaptic clefts, while the others are likely soluble enzymes. In situ hybridization of sections from the spider's nervous system revealed CsAChE7 transcripts co‐localizing with choline acetyltransferase in cells that also exhibited AChE activity. CsAChE7 transcripts were also found in rapidly adapting mechanosensory neurons, suggesting a role in precise and transient activation of postsynaptic cells, contrasting with slowly adapting, also cholinergic, neurons expressing only soluble AChEs, which allow prolonged activation of postsynaptic cells. These findings suggest that cholinergic transmission is influenced not only by postsynaptic receptors but also by the enzymatic properties regulating acetylcholine clearance. We also show that acetylcholine is a crucial neurotransmitter in the spider's visual system and sensory and motor pathways, but absent in excitatory motor neurons at neuromuscular junctions, consistent with other arthropods. Our findings on sequence structures may have implications for the development of neurological drugs and pesticides.
Commensal bacteria exacerbate seizure‐like phenotypes inDrosophilavoltage‐gated sodium channel mutants
Authors: Lansdon Patrick , Kasuya Junko , Kitamoto Toshihiro
Published: September 2024

Mutations in voltage‐gated sodium (Nav) channels, which are essential for generating and propagating action potentials, can lead to serious neurological disorders, such as epilepsy. However, disease‐causing Navchannel mutations do not always result in severe symptoms, suggesting that the disease conditions are significantly affected by other genetic factors and various environmental exposures, collectively known as the “exposome”. Notably, recent research emphasizes the pivotal role of commensal bacteria in neural development and function. Although these bacteria typically benefit the nervous system under normal conditions, their impact during pathological states remains largely unknown. Here, we investigated the influence of commensal microbes on seizure‐like phenotypes exhibited byparaShu—a gain‐of‐function mutant of theDrosophilaNavchannel gene,paralytic. Remarkably, the elimination of endogenous bacteria considerably ameliorated neurological impairments inparaShu. Consistently, reintroducing bacteria, specifically from theLactobacillusorAcetobactergenera, heightened the phenotypic severity in the bacteria‐deprived mutants. These findings posit that particular native bacteria contribute to the severity of seizure‐like phenotypes inparaShu. We further uncovered that treatingparaShuwith antibiotics boosted Nrf2 signaling in the gut, and that global Nrf2 activation mirrored the effects of removing bacteria fromparaShu. This raises the possibility that the removal of commensal bacteria suppresses the seizure‐like manifestations through augmented antioxidant responses. Since bacterial removal during development was critical for suppression of adultparaShuphenotypes, our research sets the stage for subsequent studies, aiming to elucidate the interplay between commensal bacteria and the developing nervous system in conditions predisposed to the hyperexcitable nervous system.
Value‐added based inequity in global virtual water trade
Authors: Ma Weijing , Li Chengyi , Kou Jingwen , Ma Zhong , Yang Haijiang , Xue Bing
Published: September 2024

Commodity exports have played a crucial role in driving global economic growth, but they have also led to increased flow and consumption of natural resources worldwide. To measure and analyse the inter‐regional virtual water consumption and value‐added benefits driven by exports, as well as the unequal exchange between regions, we utilised the global supply chain database of Eora to construct a multi‐regional input–output (MRIO) model of virtual water consumption and value‐added benefits among 189 countries and regions from 1991 to 2016. We also proposed a virtual water consumption uneven index. The results highlight that relatively less developed regions accounted for 27% of the world's total export value added and 56% of virtual water exports. In contrast, relatively developed regions contributed 73% of the global export value added but only 44% of virtual water exports. The export of high‐value‐added products, such as financial services, was concentrated in the relatively developed regions, while water‐intensive products, like agriculture, forestry, and animal husbandry, were mainly exported by relatively less developed regions. Economically developed regions enjoyed a beneficiary position in terms of virtual water consumption, with each unit of export‐driven added value requiring only 4–100 kg of virtual water. Conversely, economically less developed regions consumed 140–1800 kg of virtual water per unit of export‐driven added value. The disparities in virtual water exchanges across different regions primarily stem from the differences between developed and less developed regions. Therefore, less developed regions and countries should focus on improving water efficiency in water‐consuming industries, adjusting the structure of export industries, and striving to reduce or reverse the disadvantageous position of resource consumption, such as virtual water, in global trade exports.
Experiences of Inpatient Healthcare Services Among Children With Medical Complexity and Their Families: A Scoping Review
Authors: Dewan Tammie , Mackay Lyndsay , Asaad Lauren , Buchanan Francine , Hayden K. Alix , Montgomery Lara
Published: September 2024

Background

Children with medical complexity (CMC) have high healthcare utilization and face unique challenges during hospital admissions. The evidence describing their experiences of inpatient care is distributed across disciplines. The aim of this scoping review was to map the evidence related to the inpatient experience of care for CMC and their families, particularly related to key aspects and methodological approaches, and identify gaps that warrant further study.

Methods

This scoping review was conducted in accordance with JBI methodology and included all studies that reported experiences of acute hospital care for CMC/families. All study designs were included. Databases searched included EMBASE, CINAHL Plus with Full Text, Web of Science, MEDLINE(R) and APA PsycInfo from 2000 to 2022. Details about the participants, concepts, study methods and key findings were abstracted using a data abstraction tool. A thematic analysis was conducted.

Results

Forty‐nine papers were included: 27 qualitative studies, 10 quantitative studies, six mixed methods studies, two descriptive studies and four reviews. Some quantitative studies used validated instruments to measure experience of care, but many used non‐validated surveys. There were a few interventional studies with a small sample size. Results of thematic analysis described the importance of negotiating care roles, shared decision‐making, common goal setting, relationship‐building, communication, sharing expertise and the hospital setting itself.

Conclusion

CMC and families value relational elements of care and partnering through sharing expertise, decision‐making and collaborative goal‐setting when admitted to hospital.

Patient or Public Contribution

This review was conducted in alignment with the principles of patient and family engagement. The review was conceptualized, co‐designed and conducted with the full engagement of the project's parent–partner. This team member was involved in all stages from constructing the review question, to developing the protocol, screening articles and drafting this manuscript.
To Speak Up or Not to Speak Up, Organisational and Individual Antecedents That Undergird This Behaviour in Resource Constrained Region
Authors: Asante Kwadwo
Published: September 2024

Aim

To examine the organisational (i.e., perceived organisational support and psychologically safe environment) and individual (i.e., value, belief and norm) antecedents that strengthen healthcare workers' speaking‐up behaviour in a developing economy.

Design

The study uses a cross‐sectional design to gather the same data from healthcare workers within the Ashanti Region of Ghana.

Methods

The data collection happened between 15 June and 30 August 2023. A sample of 380 healthcare workers was selected from 20 facilities in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. A configurational approach, a fussy‐set qualitative comparative analysis, was used to identify the configurations that caused high and low speaking‐up behaviour among the study sample.

Results

The study results reveal that whereas four configurations generate high speaking‐up behaviour, three configurations, by contrast, produce low speaking‐up behaviour among healthcare workers.

Conclusion

Results suggest that in so far as organisational support systems which take the form of a psychologically safe environment and perceived organisational support are vital in relaxing the hierarchical boundaries in a healthcare setting to improve healthcare workers' speaking‐up behaviour, the individual value‐based factors that take the form of values, beliefs and norms are indispensable as it provides the healthcare workers with the necessary inner drive to regard speaking‐up behaviour on patient safety and care as a moral duty.

Impact

Healthcare workers' speaking‐up behaviour is better achieved when organisational support systems complement the individual norms, values and beliefs of the individual.

Reporting Method

Adhered to Strengthening Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.