bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The predicting role of sustainable supplier selection on lead-time performance in public procurement: relational capability as a moderator
Authors: Changalima Ismail Abdi
Published: July 2024

Purpose

With increasing concerns regarding the performance of public procurement, especially concerning timely delivery, this study aims to investigate the predictive role of sustainable supplier selection (SSS) in enhancing lead-time performance in public procurement, while also examining the moderating effect of relational capability.

Design/methodology/approach

The study collected primary data from 179 accredited public organizations in Tanzania through structured questionnaires and used partial least squares structural equation modeling for data analysis.

Findings

The results reveal that SSS and relational capability influence lead-time performance in public procurement. Regarding the moderating effect of relational capability, the study establishes that relational capability strengthens the influence of SSS on lead-time performance. Therefore, based on the collected data from surveyed public organizations, relational capability positively moderates the relationship between SSS and lead-time performance in public procurement.

Social implications

The study offer valuable implications for public procurement practitioners, academics and other stakeholders. Public organizations should consider contemplate integrating sustainability aspects into supplier selection processes. Furthermore, the study contributes to advancing efforts toward achieving sustainable development goals (i.e. SDG12) within Tanzania, particularly by advocating for sustainable public procurement practices aligned with national policies and priorities.

Originality/value

This study not only enhances the understanding of public procurement performance by investigating lead-time improvement, incorporating considerations of SSS and relational capability, but it also offers empirical evidence of the moderating role of relational capability within the unexplored Tanzanian context.
Does family power drive the size transition of entrepreneurial family firms? A study on the growth of Italian manufacturing firms
Authors: Brunelli Sofia , Vena Luigi , Sciascia Salvatore , Naldi Lucia
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This paper explores the drivers and inhibitors of the transition of entrepreneurial family firms from small to large firms. We adopt two contrasting theoretical perspectives, i.e. agency and stewardship, to explore the effects of family power on size transition.

Design/methodology/approach

We adopted an original research design that leverages a unique longitudinal database built starting from the list of the 500 best Italian manufacturing family firms published by the AUB Monitor in 2018. Specifically, we tested our hypotheses using a comprehensive set of financial and governance data from 89 Italian manufacturing family firms covering a 10-year period. To test our hypotheses, we conducted a survival analysis using a Cox regression.

Findings

We find an inverted U-shaped relationship between family involvement in ownership and size transition: size transition is more likely to happen at intermediate levels of family involvement in ownership. Additionally, our analysis shows that family involvement in the board of directors negatively impacts size transition, while the presence of a family CEO has a positive influence.

Originality/value

To the best of our knowledge, this study represents the first exploration of the phenomenon of size transition within entrepreneurial family firms. We believe it was worthwhile for two reasons. First, small size is frequently regarded as a weakness when competing in international markets, investing in R&D, or rewarding shareholders. Second, since small family firms are the major contributors to the world economy, understanding the factors that facilitate their transition to large firms can have a significant impact on overall economic development and prosperity.
Supply chain disruptions in COVID-19 and market performances of firms: a study in the Indian automobile sector
Authors: Aman Mishra , Rajesh R. , Vyas Vishal
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine empirically the nature of supply chain disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly on the Indian automobile sector.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors evaluate the stock market performance of individual company and its quantitative relationship to certain variables related to company’s supply chain.

Findings

The authors analysed the company’s operations considering several ratios like asset intensity, company size, labour intensity and inventory to revenue.

Research limitations/implications

The results of analysis can help the companies to understand how disruptions in the supply chain can affect the company’s operations and how it is perceived by the investors in the stock market.

Practical implications

Also, investors are benefitted, as they can understand how different companies with different operational characteristics react to global disruptions in supply chains, which in turn would help them to find better investment opportunities.

Originality/value

Although there is some literature available on the qualitative as well as quantitative analysis, the authors go further to analyse the impact of supply chain disruption on the stocks of the automobile sector.
The same only different: precarious workers’ perceptions of their treatment in COVID-19 times
Authors: Harris Lloyd C. , Ogbonna Emmanuel
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Our core aim was to explore the perceptions of precarious workers on the ways in which the pandemic impacted their relationships with their employing organizations and to explore the ways in which they viewed the pandemic as (re)shaping the dynamics of precarious work and the extent to which they saw the pandemic as contributing to substantive improvement in their working lives or whether the pandemic is exacerbating their marginalisation.

Design/methodology/approach

We adopted an approach akin to grounded theory in an exploratory research design and utilized in-depth, semi-structured interviews as the most apposite method of data collection. Our research design centred on a two-phase data collection approach, which were intended to gather data at two points. First, during the most difficult part of the pandemic, which we describe as the “Lockdown phase” and second, during the period wherein the pandemic rules were eased but elements of the risks remained; the “New Normal phase”.

Findings

This article reports the findings of a longitudinal study of the reflections and interpretations of precarious workers on the impacts of the pandemic on their relationships with their employing organizations. We supply findings across three periods – pre-the COVID-19 pandemic, during the pandemic lockdown phase and post-lockdowns in the “new normal phase”.

Research limitations/implications

The first contribution of the study is the importance of “voice” and giving voice to workers in nontraditional, fragmented and marginalised employment. Our study builds on these contributions by exploring the journeys of precarious workers and is particularly valuable in that we explore the perceptions of these workers across the societal, organizational and employment/working turbulence of the pandemic. The second contribution arises from the insights developed through studying the working lives and experiences of precarious workers longitudinally rather than in a single, snapshot fashion. A third contribution centres on how precarious workers felt they were treated by others during both the two phases of the study. The insights here are complex and, in parts, contradictory – reflecting the interpretations and conflicted opinions/deeds of those connected with precarious workers.

Originality/value

It is particularly important for scholars to understand the ways in which the pandemic shaped (or reshaped) the dynamics of precarious work and to understand whether the evolving conceptions of the centrality of such workers as “essential” during the pandemic (Crane and Matten, 2021) contributed to substantive or merely illusory, improvements in their working lives. Thus, we analyse the reflections of precarious workers on changes to their working lives that are linked to the pandemic.
Back to the basics: is business ethics an oxymoron?
Authors: Ali Mohammad A. , Abbas Faiza , Joseph Rhoda
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This paper intends to argue against the idea of an asocial business arena by reiterating the original philosophical underpinnings of theories on the creation of society, societal institutions and the relationship between society and societal institutions. This paper posits that business and ethics, though initially aligned, have been systematically maligned and distorted. The authors present a theoretically justified argument that business and ethics can and should seamlessly exist in the same realm.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a theoretical study that endeavors to go back to the original theories on business and society to challenge the view that business ethics is an oxymoron. For this purpose, the authors survey and interpret the scholarly works of Adam Smith, Aristotle and John Locke.

Findings

Given the economic debacles faced by the USA and the world economy in the past two decades, this study argues that one significant factor for these financial disasters could be that the original ideas about self-interest, societal interest, the free market system and the relationship between society and its constituting components, i.e. individuals, groups and institutions, have been distorted over time. Based on the interpretation of the original ideas around business and society, the authors find that some distortion of the original theories have indeed occurred.

Originality/value

This study is going against a well-established prevalent idea that business ethics is an oxymoron. It is claimed that the endoxa about business and its place in society often represents misinterpretations of the original ideas on the relationship between business and society. The originality of this work lies in challenging this dangerous idea by revisiting by journeying back in philosophical history to cut through the ideological scar tissue and reach the original arguments surrounding society and societal institutions.
Design of a torque sensor based on piezoelectric torsional effect of quartz pillar
Authors: Jin Huijie , Sui Suihan , Gao Changyin
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Torque is one of the main parameters reflecting the operation status and detection of a mechanical rotation system. The use of quartz pillar to design torque sensors has advantage over the use of quartz disk, but research into the torsional effect of quartz pillar is rare. This paper aims to investigate a novel type of torque sensor based on piezoelectric torsional effect.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the theory of anisotropic elasticity and the Maxwell electromagnetism, the torsion stress and distribution of surface charge of a rectangular quartz pillar are calculated. Using finite element analysis, the polarized electric field of the piezoelectric pillar is solved. According to the theoretical calculation of torsional effect of piezoelectric quartz pillar, detection electrodes are mounted on the surface of the quartz pillar and a new type of torque sensor is designed.

Findings

The calibration experimental results show that the bound charges are proportional to the torque applied, and the torque sensor has fully reached the dynamometer standard.

Originality/value

This paper shows that the torsional effect of the developed piezoelectric quartz pillar can be used to create a new type of piezoelectric torque sensor.
Balancing bioenergy expansion and restoration: Global shifts in biodiversity intactness
Authors: Tudge Sophie Jane , Murphy Richard , Harris Zoe M. , De Palma Adriana
Published: July 2024

To combat climate change, bioenergy is expected to play a more substantial role in the global energy mix, necessitating the expansion of energy crop plantations during the 21st century. Low‐quality or abandoned agricultural land is commonly proposed for growing energy crops. However, restoring such agricultural land back to natural vegetation is also key for global biodiversity conservation and carbon sequestration. Thus, understanding the ecological implications of land‐use changes involving both energy crop plantations and restoration is required.

Here, we use biodiversity data to calculate the Biodiversity Intactness Index (BII) in different land uses, including energy crop plantations. We combine our BII models with maps of land use, crop yields and priority areas for restoration to estimate the effects on BII of changes in land use, from the current day, due to bioenergy expansion. We then compare the effects on BII of replacing either any land with energy crops, or only existing agricultural land that is a priority for restoration. Finally, we contrast the effects on BII of planting energy crops versus restoring natural vegetation in priority areas for restoration.

Planting energy crops in places with relatively high amounts of natural vegetation and high BII would substantially reduce BII.

Planting energy crops only on existing agricultural land that is a priority for restoration would result in less negative effects on BII than planting such crops in high BII areas, and small increases in BII in places with less remaining natural vegetation. However, restoring natural vegetation in priority areas, rather than expanding energy crops, would result in better outcomes for BII.

Contrasting the spatial effects on BII of planting energy crops compared with restoring natural vegetation highlights places where energy crops could be the least detrimental to BII, such as Central Europe and the east coasts of the USA and China.

Synthesis and applications. While restoration is the best strategy for biodiversity, planting energy crops on agricultural land rather than replacing natural vegetation could minimise losses in biodiversity intactness. However, achieving targets for bioenergy, climate change and restoration will require strategic land‐use planning to minimise ecological compromises.
Postpartum haemorrhage and risk of cardiovascular disease in later life: A population‐based record linkage cohort study
Authors: Latt Su Mon , Opondo Charles , Alderdice Fiona , Kurinczuk Jennifer J. , Rowe Rachel
Published: July 2024

Objective

To investigate the association between postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) and subsequent cardiovascular disease.

Design

Population‐based retrospective cohort study, using record linkage between Aberdeen Maternity and Neonatal Databank (AMND) and Scottish healthcare data sets.

Setting

Grampian region, Scotland.

Population

A cohort of 70 904 women who gave birth after 24 weeks of gestation in the period 1986–2016.

Methods

We used extended Cox regression models to investigate the association between having had one or more occurrences of PPH in any (first or subsequent) births (exposure) and subsequent cardiovascular disease, adjusted for sociodemographic, medical, and pregnancy and birth‐related factors.

Main Outcome Measures

Cardiovascular disease identified from the prescription of selected cardiovascular medications, hospital discharge records or death from cardiovascular disease.

Results

In our cohort of 70 904 women (with 124 795 birth records), 25 177 women (36%) had at least one PPH. Compared with not having a PPH, having at least one PPH was associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease, as defined above, in the first year after birth (adjusted hazard ratio, aHR 1.96; 95% confidence interval, 95% CI 1.51–2.53; p < 0.001). The association was attenuated over time, but strong evidence of increased risk remained at 2–5 years (aHR 1.19, 95% CI 1.11–1.30, P < 0.001) and at 6–15 years after giving birth (aHR 1.17, 95% CI 1.05–1.30, p = 0.005).

Conclusions

Compared with women who have never had a PPH, women who have had at least one episode of PPH are twice as likely to develop cardiovascular disease in the first year after birth, and some increased risk persists for up to 15 years.
Development of special education in Jordan as a model: Reality and challenges
Authors: Al‐Dababneh Kholoud Adeeb , Al‐Zboon Eman K.
Published: July 2024

Special education plays a critical role in ensuring equal educational opportunities for individuals with diverse learning needs. In the context of Jordan, the development of special education has made significant progress over the years, reflecting the country's commitment to inclusivity and diversity, with notable efforts from the government and various stakeholders to enhance the inclusivity and accessibility of education for students with disabilities (SWDs). This scoping review aims to explore the reality of special education development in Jordan, and identify the challenges faced in implementing an effective model. By conducting a comprehensive literature search, analysing relevant government and non‐government reports and studies, this research aims to shed light on historical context, policies, progress made, practices and highlight existing challenges and gaps, and propose potential solutions to enhance special education practices in the field of special education in Jordan. This study emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement and implementation of effective strategies to enhance education services for SWDs in the country. By exploring relevant literature, this research also intends to create a roadmap for policymakers and stakeholders to enhance special education services in Jordan and promote a more supportive environment for learners with diverse needs.
Unplanned hemodialysis initiation: A retrospective analysis of patient characteristics and prognosis in an emergency hospital
Authors: Kitamura Mineaki , Yamashita Hiroshi , Sugiyama Sayaka , Kuroki Ryoma , Fukuda Haruka , Sawase Atsushi , Tsuchiyama Ayaka , Takehara Kosuke , Watanabe Junichi , Takazono Takahiro , Imamura Ryoichi , Mukae Hiroshi , Nishino Tomoya
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Functional decline occurs during dialysis initiation, particularly in unplanned cases. To prevent unplanned hemodialysis, we aimed to identify associated factors from the first referral to the nephrology department to hemodialysis initiation and assess patient prognosis post‐unplanned hemodialysis initiation.

Methods

This retrospective study involved 257 Japanese patients initiating hemodialysis and compared patient characteristics based on whether hemodialysis was planned or unplanned at a single center. Patient outcomes were evaluated in collaboration with maintenance hemodialysis centers.

Results

Unplanned hemodialysis initiation correlated with heart failure history (p < 0.05) and infections like pneumonia (p < 0.001). Patients with unplanned hemodialysis initiation had a worse prognosis than those with planned initiation (p < 0.001), and multivariable Cox regression showed it as an independent risk factor for death (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Hygiene and careful attention to heart failure may reduce unplanned hemodialysis and improve patient well‐being and healthcare efficiency. This retrospective analysis highlights crucial considerations for optimizing the initiation of hemodialysis.
Global governance through voluntary sustainability standards: Developments, trends and challenges
Authors: Marx Axel , Depoorter Charline , Fernandez de Cordoba Santiago , Verma Rupal , Araoz Mercedes , Auld Graeme , Bemelmans Janne , Bennett Elizabeth A. , Boonaert Eva , Brandi Clara , Dietz Thomas , Fouilleux Eve , Grabs Janina , Gulbrandsen Lars H. , Harrison James , Heilmayr Robert , Hernandez Ariel , Hoekman Bernard , Lambert Siti Rubiah , Lambin Eric , Li Li , Maertens Miet , Mortara Batistic Paulo , Michida Etsuyo , Nakagawa Junji , Negi Archna , Pérez‐Pineda Jorge A. , Ponte Stefano , Rueda Ximena , Schleifer Philip , Thorstensen Vera , van der Ven Hamish
Published: July 2024

Voluntary Sustainability Standards (VSS) are transnational governance instruments that can be leveraged to pursue sustainable development in global value chains. They have proliferated since the 1990s in terms of their number and the share of global production they govern. This paper shares some key insights arising from the considerable body of literature that has analysed the role of these instruments for sustainable production and trade. First, it introduces VSS, traces the evolution of their adoption and takes stock of the research on their sustainability impacts. Next, some major developments in the VSS realm are discussed, related to public policy and the emergence of national sustainability standards. The paper then zooms in on the challenges and limitations of VSS in transforming value chains towards sustainability, focusing on the shortcomings related to inclusiveness and the problems arising from their proliferation. The paper concludes by distilling recommendations on overcoming these challenges, especially in light of recent policy developments, and outlines what different stakeholders can do to make VSS more effective and inclusive instruments for sustainable value chains.
Epigenetic and sex differences in opioid use disorder in chronic pain: A real‐world study linked with OPRM1 DNA methylation
Authors: Agulló Laura , Escorial Mónica , Orutño Samantha , Muriel Javier , Sandoval Juan , Margarit César , Peiró Ana M.
Published: July 2024

Opioid use disorder (OUD) is a multifaceted condition influenced by sex, genetic and environmental factors that could be linked with epigenetic changes. Understanding how these factors interact is crucial to understand and address the development and progression of this disorder. Our aim was to elucidate different potential epigenetic and genetic mechanisms between women and men that correlate with OUD under real‐world pain unit conditions. Associations between analgesic response and the DNA methylation level of the opioid mu receptor (OPRM1) gene (CpG sites 1–5 selected in the promoter region) were evaluated in 345 long opioid‐treated chronic non cancer pain: cases with OUD (n = 67) and controls (without OUD, n = 278). Cases showed younger ages, low employment status and quality of life, but higher morphine equivalent daily dose and psychotropic use, compared to the controls. The patients with OUD showed a significant decrease in OPRM1 DNA methylation, which correlated with clinical outcomes like pain relief, depression and different adverse events. Significant differences were found at the five CpG sites studied for men, and exclusively in women for CpG site 3, in relation to OUD diagnosis. These findings support the importance of epigenetics and sex as biological variables to be considered toward efficient OUD understanding and therapy development.
Use of disposable e‐cigarettes among youth who vape in Canada, England and the United States: Repeat cross‐sectional surveys, 2017–2023
Authors: Hammond David , Reid Jessica L. , Burkhalter Robin , East Katherine
Published: July 2024

Aims

To measure changes over time (between 2017 and 2023) in disposable e‐cigarette use and popular brands among youth in Canada, England and the United States (US) who vaped.

Design

Nine waves of repeat cross‐sectional data from the International Tobacco Control Policy Evaluation Project (ITC) Youth Tobacco and Vaping Survey.

Setting

Online surveys conducted in Canada, England and the US between 2017 and 2023.

Participants

Youth aged 16 to 19 years who had vaped in the past 30 days (n = 19 710).

Measurements

Usual type (disposable, cartridge/pod, tank) and brand of e‐cigarette used; covariates sex at birth, age, race/ethnicity, cigarette smoking status, vaping on ≥20 of the past 30 days.

Findings

In 2017, the majority of youth who vaped in the past 30 days reported using refillable tank e‐cigarettes, whereas disposable e‐cigarettes were the least commonly used product type in Canada (10.0%), England (8.6%) and the US (14.4%). Cartridge/pods overtook tank devices in Canada and the US by 2020; however, by 2023, disposables were the leading type of e‐cigarette used by youth who vaped in all three countries (Canada = 58.5%; England = 83.2%; US = 67.3%). The shift to disposables occurred among all socio‐demographic groups, with few differences by vaping and smoking status. The percentage of youth who vaped that reported ‘no usual’ brand also decreased substantially from 2017 (29% to 42%) to 2023 (11% to 17%). The rise of disposable e‐cigarettes appeared to be driven primarily by individual brands in the US (Puff Bar in 2020/2021, Elf Bar in 2022/2023) and England (Elf Bar in 2022/2023).

Conclusions

The e‐cigarette market has evolved rapidly with notable shifts in the types of e‐cigarettes used by youth who vape in Canada, England and the United States. Although the timing differed across countries, major shifts in device types appear to be driven by individual brands and were often accompanied by increases in vaping prevalence among youth.
Predictors of alcohol and other drug treatment completion among young people accessing residential and community‐based treatment: A retrospective analysis of routinely collected service data
Authors: Wells Megan , Kelly Peter J. , Mullaney Lauren , Lee Mei Lin , Stirling Robert , Etter Sarah , Larance Briony
Published: July 2024

Background and aims

Young people accessing alcohol and other drug (AOD) treatment experience high rates of treatment disengagement, contributing to poorer outcomes. To improve outcomes, it is important to identify factors associated with treatment retention. This study measured the relationships between client characteristics, treatment characteristics, clinical severity measures and completion of treatment among young people.

Design, setting and participants

This study was a retrospective analysis of routinely collected data set in residential‐ and community‐based AOD services in New South Wales, Australia. Routinely collected data from the Network of Alcohol and Other Drug Agencies’ (NADA) database were used. Included individuals were aged 10–24 years and accessed treatment between 2012 and 2023 (n = 17 474).

Measurements

Variables included client‐related characteristics, service characteristics and baseline measures of clinical severity [Kessler‐10 (K10), EUROHIS–QoL, severity of dependence scale (SDS)]. Multivariable binary logistic regression models assessed the relationships between these characteristics and treatment completion.

Findings

Rates of treatment completion were highest among adolescents in community‐based treatment (57%) and lowest among young adults in residential treatment (35%). Polysubstance use was negatively associated with treatment completion among adolescents [adjusted odds ratio (adjOR) = 0.71, P < 0.001] and adults (adjOR = 0.70, P < 0.001) in community‐based treatment, and adolescents in residential treatment (adjOR = 0.62, P = 0.006), as was housing insecurity (adolescents in community treatment, adjOR = 0.61, P = 0.001; adults in community treatment, adjOR = 0.77, P = 0.002; adolescents in residential treatment, adjOR = 0.42, P = 0.005). Attending youth‐specific services was associated with higher treatment completion rates among adults in community‐based (adjOR = 1.81, P < 0.001) and residential treatment (adjOR = 1.72, P < 0.001). Varying correlates of treatment completion were identified throughout treatment groups, reflecting the differences in population and/or needs across contexts.

Conclusions

In New South Wales, Australia, fewer than half of young people accessing alcohol and other drug treatment between 2012 and 2023 completed treatment, and completion rates were lower among those facing barriers such as polysubstance use and housing insecurity.
Increased prevalence of the null allele of the p.Arg577Ter variant in the ACTN3 gene in Brazilian long‐distance athletes: A retrospective study
Authors: Guilherme João Paulo Limongi França , Oliveira Edilamar Menezes
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The phenotypic consequences of the p.Arg577Ter variant in the α‐actinin‐3 (ACTN3) gene are suggestive of a trade‐off between performance traits for speed and endurance sports. Although there is a consistent association of the c.1729C allele (aka R allele) with strength/power traits, there is still a debate on whether the null allele (c.1729T allele; aka X allele) influences endurance performance. The present study aimed to test the association of the ACTN3 p.Arg577Ter variant with long‐distance endurance athlete status, using previously published data with the Brazilian population.

Methods

Genotypic data from 203 long‐distance athletes and 1724 controls were analysed in a case–control approach.

Results

The frequency of the X allele was significantly higher in long‐distance athletes than in the control group (51.5% vs. 41.4%; p = 0.000095). The R/X and X/X genotypes were overrepresented in the athlete group. Individuals with the R/X genotype instead of the R/R genotype had a 1.6 increase in the odds of being a long‐distance athlete (p = 0.012), whereas individuals with the X/X genotype instead of the R/R genotype had a 2.2 increase in the odds of being a long‐distance athlete (p = 0.00017).

Conclusion

The X allele, mainly the X/X genotype, was associated with long‐distance athlete status in Brazilians.
Universities and the Right to Think in Africa
Authors: Arowosegbe Jeremiah O.
Published: July 2024

Studies of academic freedom have mostly focussed on Europe and North America. Yet, any consideration of the societal crises in Africa cannot ignore the collapse of its universities and the very concept of academic freedom on the continent. Much had been expected of the universities. In Africa, the early post‐independence universities took off on internationally competitive and solid foundations—thanks to the heritages and traditions bequeathed them by the colonial powers that established them. In these societies, the expectations associated with the formation and performance of the universities have their foundations in the historical evidence furnished by the definitions of success in the West. However, the postcolonial orientations of the universities in Africa have proceeded along different pathways. Ideas taken from one milieu to another can develop in unpredictable ways and may satisfy needs other than those served in their places of origin. Institutions transplanted from one society can be influenced by the practices prevalent in the receiving societies. The forces acting upon such interactions are complex. The resultant transformative impacts are also unpredictable. An appreciation of context is therefore compelling. This article discusses the crisis in Nigeria's political economy and its continued impact on the public universities from the late 1980s to the 2020s [Correction added on 26 July 2024, after first online publication: Preceding sentence has been amended for correctness.]
Early follow‐up colonoscopy after colorectal cancer resection detects significant pathology
Authors: Finlay Ben P. , Symonds Erin L. , Raman Mahadya , Hollington Paul
Published: July 2024

Background

Colonoscopy is a key component of surveillance after colorectal cancer (CRC) resection. Surveillance intervals for colonoscopy vary across the world, with a limited evidence‐base to support guidelines.

Objective

To evaluate the timing and outcome of colonoscopies after CRC resection.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study on prospectively collected data. Included adult patients under surveillance following CRC resection. Patients with organ transplant, inflammatory bowel disease or colon cancer syndromes were excluded. The outcomes of the first (up to) three follow‐up colonoscopies were audited and classified for presence of advanced neoplasia (advanced adenoma or adenocarcinoma).

Results

980 patients underwent at least one follow‐up colonoscopy with a median time to first colonoscopy of 12.4 months. The findings included 2.7% CRC and 13.2% advanced adenoma. Older age, stage IV disease, and synchronous cancers at surgery were significantly associated with a finding of advanced neoplasia at first colonoscopy. 562 patients underwent a second colonoscopy (median of 35 months after the first surveillance colonoscopy) with findings of 1.8% CRC and 11.4% advanced adenoma. Advanced adenoma on prior colonoscopy was associated with finding advanced neoplasia at the second colonoscopy. 288 patients underwent a third colonoscopy (median of 37 months from the preceding colonoscopy), with similar outcomes of advanced neoplasia being associated with advanced adenoma at the previous colonoscopy. 43 (4.4%) patients developed CRC whilst on surveillance.

Conclusions

Timely surveillance after CRC resection is important for detecting advanced neoplasia, and prolonged intervals between colonoscopies in the early years after surgery should be avoided.
Is staging breast magnetic resonance imaging for invasive lobular carcinoma worthwhile?
Authors: Melvin Zebadiah , Lim David , Jacques Angela , Falkner Nathalie M. , Lo Glen
Published: July 2024

Background

Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) is challenging to stage accurately using mammography (MG) and ultrasound (US) with undiagnosed ipsilateral and contralateral cancer resulting in poor patient outcomes including return to surgery. Our institution employs routine staging breast MRI in ILC for this reason. However, increased time for further imaging/biopsies contributes to patient anxiety and potentially delays definite management. We aimed to quantify the frequency of staging MRI‐detected additional lesions requiring biopsy or follow‐up, the added cancer detection rate and MRI prompted change in surgical management.

Methods

An observational study on staging breast MRI for newly diagnosed ILC at a tertiary Western Australian hospital from January 2019 to August 2022. Standardized 3T MRI protocol was performed, double read by unblinded fellowship‐trained radiologists. Histopathology from biopsy, surgery, or first annual surveillance was the reference standard for additional MRI‐detected lesions.

Results

One hundred ten MRI studies demonstrated 49 (45%) patients had at least one additional clinically significant MRI‐detected lesion. Thirty‐one patients had an additional ipsilateral lesion detected, of which 18 (58%) proved malignant; 14 (45%) multifocal and 4 (13%) multicentric ILC. Additional work‐up of MRI‐detected lesions averaged a 9‐day delay to definitive surgery compared to patients with a negative or definitively benign MRI. MRI changed surgical planning in 11 of 110 cases from breast conservation surgery (BCS) to mastectomy and there were two contralateral cancers diagnosed. BCS reoperation rate was 11%.

Conclusion

Staging MRI for ILC identifies clinically significant lesions in nearly half of patients, predominantly ipsilateral multifocal disease, without significant delay to definitive surgery.
Preeclampsia and neonatal outcomes in pregnancies with maternal congenital heart disease: A nationwide cohort study from Norway
Authors: Sandberg Marit , Fomina Tatiana , Macsali Ferenc , Greve Gottfried , Øyen Nina , Leirgul Elisabeth
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The prevalence of congenital heart disease (CHD) among women of reproductive age is rising. We aimed to investigate the risk of preeclampsia and adverse neonatal outcomes in pregnancies of mothers with CHD compared to pregnancies of mothers without heart disease.

Material and Methods

In a nationwide cohort of pregnancies in Norway 1994–2014, we retrieved information on maternal heart disease, the course of pregnancy, and neonatal outcomes from national registries. Comparing pregnancies with maternal CHD to pregnancies without maternal heart disease, we used Cox regression to estimate the adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) for preeclampsia and log‐binomial regression to estimate the adjusted risk ratio (aRR) for adverse neonatal outcomes. The estimates were adjusted for maternal age and year of childbirth and presented with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Among 1 218 452 pregnancies, 2425 had mild maternal CHD, and 603 had moderate/severe CHD. Compared to pregnancies without maternal heart disease, the risk of preeclampsia was increased in pregnancies with mild and moderate/severe maternal CHD (aHR1.37, 95% CI 1.14–1.65 and aHR 1.62, 95% CI 1.13–2.32). The risk of preterm birth was increased in pregnancies with mild maternal CHD (aRR 1.33, 95% CI 1.15–1.54) and further increased with moderate/severe CHD (aRR 2.49, 95% CI 2.03–3.07). Maternal CHD was associated with elevated risks of both spontaneous and iatrogenic preterm birth. The risk of infants small‐for‐gestational‐age was slightly increased with mild maternal CHD (aRR 1.12, 95% CI 1.00–1.26) and increased with moderate/severe CHD (aRR 1.63, 95% CI 1.36–1.95). The prevalence of stillbirth was 3.9 per 1000 pregnancies without maternal heart disease, 5.6 per 1000 with mild maternal CHD, and 6.8 per 1000 with moderate/severe maternal CHD. Still, there were too few cases to report a significant difference. There were no maternal deaths in women with CHD.

Conclusions

Moderate/severe maternal CHD in pregnancy was associated with increased risks of preeclampsia, preterm birth, and infants small‐for‐gestational‐age. Mild maternal CHD was associated with less increased risks. For women with moderate/severe CHD, their risk of preeclampsia and adverse neonatal outcomes should be evaluated together with their cardiac risk in pregnancy, and follow‐up in pregnancy should be ascertained.
Celebrating a century of APMIS: a legacy of pathology, microbiology, and immunology
Authors: Norrild Bodil , Ralfkiaer Ulrik
Published: July 2024

This manuscript commemorates the 100th anniversary of APMIS, highlighting its evolution from a regional journal, founded in 1924 as Acta Pathologica et Microbiologica Scandinavica, to an international platform fostering global collaboration in pathology, microbiology, and immunology. The journal's inception was driven by Ulrik Quensel's vision in 1919, leading to the establishment of the Northern Pathological Society and the launch of the journal in 1924. APMIS has consistently published landmark research, including significant contributions from prominent. These studies have advanced understanding in fields such as pathology, microbiology, and immunology. The journal expanded its scope in the 1970s to include immunology, rebranding as APMIS in the mid‐1980s. Recent decades have seen a continued commitment to cutting‐edge research and an increasing impact factor. As APMIS transitions to an Open Access model under Wiley, it will be renamed the PMI Journal (Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology) to reflect its global reach and dedication to scientific excellence. This centennial celebration acknowledges the contributions of editors, authors, and readers, looking forward to future advancements in biomedical research.
Pastoralism in the high tropical Andes: A review of the effect of grazing intensity on plant diversity and ecosystem services
Authors: Duchicela Sisimac Alli , Llambí Luis Daniel , Bonnesoeur Vivien , Román‐Dañobeytia Francisco
Published: July 2024

Aims

Pastoralism is a land‐use system that involves the care and use of grazing livestock and has been more common in areas of low resource availability. In this review, we analyze the impact of pastoralism on biodiversity and ecosystem services across the tropical Andes. This region is the most extensive and populated tropical mountain region in the world and presents a high diversity of biomes, livestock types and management histories. Given that pastoralism is a main land use here, understanding its impacts is important for providing appropriate recommendations for sustainable management.

Location

Tropical Andes; Venezuela to the north of Argentina and Chile.

Methods

To understand these impacts, we performed a systematic literature search (August 2021) and obtained 103 articles. We created a conceptual framework to map how available research has contributed to our understanding of the main pastoral systems, their associated management strategies and the impact of different grazing intensities on vegetation cover/diversity and ecosystem services.

Results

We found that research has focused on two leading pastoral systems in the region: bovines in the páramo biome of the northern Andes and camelids in the puna biome of the central Andes. We found important environmental impacts at high grazing intensities for both the puna camelid and páramo bovine pastoral systems, including a decrease in soil organic carbon and an increase in soil compaction, a decrease in above‐ground biomass, plant species richness, and graminoid cover, as well as clear changes in the growth‐form composition of vegetation.

Conclusions

Given these findings, we recommend coordinated research efforts using common methodologies, documenting current and previous land use, including stocking rates, and combining observational and experimental approaches to develop a more integrated understanding of pastoralism's impacts across this diverse and vulnerable region.
Listening quality leads to greater working alliance and well‐being: Testing a social identity model of working alliance
Authors: Lee Georgina C. , Platow Michael J. , Cruwys Tegan
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Characterization of psychotherapy as the “talking cure” de‐emphasizes the importance of an active listener on the curative effect of talking. We test whether the working alliance and its benefits emerge from expression of voice, per se, or whether active listening is needed. We examine the role of listening in a social identity model of working alliance.

Methods

University student participants in a laboratory experiment spoke about stress management to another person (a confederate student) who either did or did not engage in active listening. Participants reported their perceptions of alliance, key social‐psychological variables, and well‐being.

Results

Active listening led to significantly higher ratings of alliance, procedural justice, social identification, and identity leadership, compared to no active listening. Active listening also led to greater positive affect and satisfaction. Ultimately, an explanatory path model was supported in which active listening predicted working alliance through social identification, identity leadership, and procedural justice.

Conclusions

Listening quality enhances alliance and well‐being in a manner consistent with a social identity model of working alliance, and is a strategy for facilitating alliance in therapy.
The clinical and predictive value of 18F‐FDG PET/CT metabolic patterns in a clinical Chinese cohort with autoimmune encephalitis
Authors: Dai Yuwei , Zhu Zehua , Tang Yongxiang , Xiao Ling , Liu Xianghe , Zhang Min , Xiao Bo , Hu Kai , Long Lili , Xie Yuanyuan , Hu Shuo
Published: July 2024

Aims

To investigate the diagnostic and predictive role of 18F‐FDG PET/CT in patients with autoimmune encephalitis (AE) as a whole group.

Methods

Thrty‐five patients (20 females and 15 males) with AE were recruited. A voxel‐to‐voxel semi‐quantitative analysis based on SPM12 was used to analyze 18F‐FDG PET/CT imaging data compared to healthy controls. Further comparison was made in different prognostic groups categorized by modified Rankin Scale (mRS).

Results

In total, 24 patients (68.6%) were tested positive neuronal antibodies in serum and/or CSF. Psychiatric symptoms and seizure attacks were major clinical symptoms. In the acute stage, 13 patients (37.1%) demonstrated abnormal brain MRI results, while 33 (94.3%) presented abnormal metabolism patterns. 18F‐FDG PET/CT was more sensitive than MRI (p < 0.05). Patients with AE mainly presented mixed metabolism patterns compared to the matched controls, demonstrating hypermetabolism mainly in the cerebellum, BG, MTL, brainstem, insula, middle frontal gyrus, and relatively hypometabolism in the frontal cortex, occipital cortex, temporal gyrus, right parietal gyrus, left cingulate gyrus (p < 0.05, FWE corrected). After a median follow‐up of 26 months, the multivariable analysis identified a decreased level of consciousness as an independent risk factor associated with poor outcome of AE (HR = 3.591, p = 0.016). Meanwhile, decreased metabolism of right superior frontal gyrus along with increased metabolism of the middle and upper brainstem was more evident in patients with poor outcome (p < 0.001, uncorrected).

Conclusion

18F‐FDG PET/CT was more sensitive than MRI to detect neuroimaging abnormalities of AE. A mixed metabolic pattern, characterized by large areas of cortical hypometabolism with focal hypermetabolism was a general metabolic pattern. Decreased metabolism of right superior frontal gyrus with increased metabolism of the middle and upper brainstem may predict poor long‐term prognosis of AE.
Prognostic Value of the 18F‐FDG PET/CT and Haematological Parameters in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Wakisaka Risa , Kumai Takumi , Komatsuda Hiroki , Yamaki Hidekiyo , Kono Michihisa , Sato Ryosuke , Ohara Kenzo , Kishibe Kan , Hayashi Tatsuya , Okizaki Atsutaka , Takahara Miki
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Fluorine 18‐fluoro‐glucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F‐FDG PET/CT) is commonly used for the staging of head and neck cancer. This study aimed to evaluate the correlation between 18F‐FDG PET/CT, haematological parameters and prognosis in patients with advanced head and neck cancer.

Methods

This was a single‐institutional retrospective study of 83 patients with advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) who underwent 18F‐FDG PET/CT imaging before initial treatment between 2014 and 2018. 18F‐FDG PET/CT after treatment was performed in 57 patients. The prognostic parameters of the pre‐ and post‐treatment maximum standardised uptake value (SUVmax), metabolic tumour volume (MTV), total lesion glycolysis (TLG) of primary tumours and haematological parameters were analysed to evaluate the association between overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS).

Results

Pre‐MTV, pre‐TLG and post‐SUVmax were significantly associated with poor OS and PFS (p < 0.05). Haematological parameters, including pretreatment neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio and C‐reactive protein/albumin ratio, were associated with 18F‐FDG PET/CT parameters. In multivariate analysis, post‐SUVmax was an independent prognostic factor for OS and PFS.

Conclusion

A correlation between PET/CT metabolic and haematological parameters was observed. The volume and intensity of 18F‐FDG uptake region, in addition to haematological parameters, are feasible markers for predicting the progression of HNSCC in daily practice. Further, post‐SUVmax could be an independent parameter for predicting poor survival.
The place for people in rewilding
Authors: Glentworth Joseph , Gilchrist Anna , Avery Rowan
Published: July 2024

Rewilding, although controversial, is increasingly presented as humanity's best hope of addressing the global biodiversity crisis, but it remains unclear how restoring nonhuman autonomy affects people's relationships with nature. We conceptualized 3 human–nature relationships (HNRs) that could occur when restoring nonhuman autonomy: human–nature dichotomy, human–nature compromise, and human–nature mutualism. Through 51 interviews, we then empirically tested the occurrence of these HNRs across diverse actors living and working in 2 longstanding British rewilding initiatives to better understand the place for people in rewilding. Actors’ HNRs aligned with the 3 conceptual framings, but these relationships were complex. Individuals often demonstrated multiple perspectives that transcended conventional actor categorization. The tripartite framing also revealed conflicting values across and within individuals, resulting in pluralistic HNRs. Our work adds to the theory and practice surrounding the place for people in rewilding by cautioning against a single preferred HNR when restoring nonhuman autonomy and advocating that a diversity of human interactions with nature should be integrated into the global rewilding movement.