bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do corporate donations affect the cost of equity? International evidence
Authors: Bhuiyan Md. Borhan Uddin , Hu Yuanyuan
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This research investigates the impact of corporate donations on the cost of equity capital. We argue that corporate donations reduce firm risk and improve reputation, affecting the cost of equity.

Design/methodology/approach

We employ a large international sample of 44 countries from 2002 to 2019. We use several econometric methods and conduct a range of sensitivity tests to examine the robustness of findings.

Findings

We find that corporate donations reduce the cost of equity capital. In terms of economic significance, the study shows that one standard deviation increase in corporate donations leads to a 12.9 to 14.9 basis point decrease in the cost of equity capital. The additional analyses reveal that donation patterns, country-specific attributes and macroeconomic characteristics likely influence the findings. Our results are robust to a batch of sensitivity tests, including GMM regression analysis and tests with alternative measures for corporate donations and the cost of equity capital.

Practical implications

Our research findings have practical implications. Policymakers can encourage firms to undertake philanthropic activities to reduce business risk, which benefits both firms and investors.

Originality/value

We contribute to the theoretical discussion about the role of corporate philanthropy. We argue that firm risk is reduced due to philanthropic activities such as corporate donations. Overall, our results suggest that corporate donations affect worldwide external financing costs.
Exploring the impact of Islam’s social well-being and economic justice on peaceful coexistence in Nigeria: implications for conventional welfare policy
Authors: Ashafa Saheed Afolabi , Raimi Lukman
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This article explores the empirical support for the claim that Islam, described by Allah as a standard creed, is inherently compatible with inclusivity and sustainable development. Focusing on Nigeria’s multi-religious context, the research aims to assess the impact of Islam’s social well-being and economic justice on peaceful coexistence.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from 273 academics and professionals were collected and analysed using a quantitative survey research design.

Findings

The results show that the social well-being of Islam, which includes the protection of religion, life and progeny, has a significant and positive association with peaceful coexistence. Similarly, Islam’s economic justice, which includes protecting intellect/intellectual resources and wealth, also shows a substantial and positive association with peaceful coexistence in Nigeria. Aligning the principles of peaceful coexistence with Islam’s Maqasid al-Shari’ah framework (MSF) proves to be a way to strengthen the connection between social well-being and economic justice and thus improve peaceful coexistence in a multi-religious society. Control variables such as age and marital status also have positive associations with POC, while gender, education level and religion have different effects. Overall, the impact of Islam’s social well-being and economic justice, represented by the five protective principles called Maqasidul Shari’ah, has a positive association with peaceful coexistence, with the protection of progeny having the strongest influence.

Research limitations/implications

Aligning the principles of peaceful coexistence with Islam’s Maqasid al-Shari’ah framework (MSF) emerges as an avenue to strengthen the connection between social well-being and economic justice, thereby enhancing peaceful coexistence in a multi-religious society. Despite its modest scope, this study contributes valuable insights to the literature on Islam’s social well-being, economic justice and the role of Maqasid al-Shari’ah in promoting peace in diverse societies.

Originality/value

The study’s novelty lies in the empirical evidence it provides for the claim that the principles of Islam, specifically referencing the Maqasidul Shari’ah principles, are inherently compatible with inclusivity and sustainable development.
Corruption perception, institutional quality and performance of Egyptian-Listed companies: evidence from econometric models
Authors: Hassouna Dina , Lewaaelhamd Israa
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of corruption perception and institutional quality on the performance of publicly listed companies in Egypt.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from 42 publicly traded Egyptian firms during 2013–2022 were analyzed. Corruption was measured using the Transparency International Corruption Perceptions Index, while institutional quality was assessed through a composite measure derived from World Bank Governance Indicators using principal component analysis. The study used a generalized method of moments dynamic panel model for the analysis.

Findings

The results reveal a negative relationship between corruption and firm performance, both in market value (Tobin’s Q) and accounting outcomes (ROA). Institutional quality also inversely affects performance, indicating that corruption and weak governance undermine corporate success in Egypt.

Research limitations/implications

The findings are specific to the 2013–2022 period and exclude newly listed firms due to data limitations. Future studies could expand the sample and timeframe to provide broader insights.

Practical implications

The study underscores the need for stronger governance and institutional reforms. Policymakers and regulators must address corruption and improve institutional frameworks to enhance firm performance and market confidence.

Originality/value

This study challenges the positivist view of corruption, presenting evidence of its detrimental effects in the Egyptian context. It contributes to the limited research on how corruption perception and institutional quality affect firm performance in Egypt.
Patient admission control and bed allocation during a pandemic using dynamic programming and simulation
Authors: Zamani Hamed , Parvaresh Fereshteh
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to examine patient admission control (AC) policies aimed at reducing patient waiting times during a pandemic. Unlike previous studies that focused on AC within a single hospital, this research seeks to minimize waiting times across multiple hospitals. The primary objective is to ensure that patients are admitted to the most appropriate hospital to reduce congestion during a pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes two stochastic dynamic programming (DP) models. The first model treats the number of available beds as a fixed parameter, while the second model considers the number of beds as a decision variable. In the first model, the main decision is determining which hospital a pandemic patient should be assigned to. Bed allocation is not addressed in this model. The rationale for presenting two models is based on the dynamic nature of hospital resource allocation. In some situations, hospital administrators must decide how to configure beds between pandemic and nonpandemic wards. In other scenarios, bed allocation is predetermined and remains constant throughout the pandemic. DP algorithms are used to precisely solve small-scale instances of the problem and generate policies for patient assignment. These policies are then evaluated against alternative heuristic policies using larger-scale problem instances and simulation tools.

Findings

Simulation results reveal that implementing an AC unit and adopting an appropriate patient allocation policy can reduce average patient waiting times by approximately 50%. Moreover, when equity is a consideration (when the objectives are in the form of min-max), the policies derived from the DP approach outperform heuristic policies. However, some heuristic policies are more effective when equity is not a primary concern.

Originality/value

The findings of this research can assist health-care managers in making informed decisions by highlighting the implications and performance of various strategies.
Stakeholders’ engagement for advancing a sustainable Nigerian construction industry: a sustainable development goal-driven approach
Authors: Isang Inimbom Walter , Ebiloma David Ojimaojo , Ukpong Edidiong
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The ever-increasing pollution, poverty and poor economy, caused in part by human activities, have necessitated the need for sustainable development (SD) and sustainable construction (SC). This requires reconsidering sustainable development goals (SDGs) as a complementary approach to achieving a sustainably built environment. This paper aims to explore how stakeholder’s engagement can drive the attainment of SDGs in the Nigerian construction industry (NCI), with a view to advancing a sustainable construction industry (SCI) in Nigeria. The study also examines the inhibitors of attaining SDGs in the light of 10 core SDGs that play a sustainable role in the NCI.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted a qualitative research approach. Data were collected from 22 stakeholders (practitioners and policy makers) in the NCI through interviews which were transcribed, coded and analysed thematically.

Findings

The results deduced that industry-related, government-related and economic, environmental and socio-cultural-related themes inhibit SDGs in the NCI, while SDGs-driven policy implementation, best practices and educating/training themes can be used to attain SDGs in Nigeria. Valuable insights from the findings recommended stakeholders’ engagement in eliminating the influx of quacks, repositioning attitudinal change in governance, streamlining funds for SD, implementing and complying to building regulations, providing professional practice and training stakeholders about the benefits of sustainability in Nigeria.

Originality/value

Emerging inhibitors of SDGs are identified, leading to the development of innovative approaches and actions for stakeholders’ engagement, which were missing from previous studies. Stakeholders and the government can use the strategic phases proposed in this paper to advance a SCI in Nigeria.
Analysis of factors mitigating greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Guermazi Imene , Smaoui Aida , Chabchoub Mohamed
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper focuses on the commitment of a leading Middle Eastern country – Saudi Arabia – to the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG13, climate preservation. This paper aims to investigate the determinants of greenhouse gas emissions by examining their correlation with economic growth, population growth, renewable energies, forest area, digitalization and monetary policy.

Design/methodology/approach

This research observes greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and the potential influencing factors during 1990–2023. It employs the autoregressive distributed lag model (ARDL) after testing the stationarity of the variables.

Findings

The findings show that population growth, gross domestic product (GDP) growth, percentage of individuals using the internet and forest rents are significant determinants of carbon oxide (CO2) emissions. Further, methane (CH4) emissions are significantly associated with population growth, GDP growth, percentage of individuals using the internet and renewable internal freshwater resources. Nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions depend significantly on the percentage of individuals using the internet and renewable internal freshwater resources.

Practical implications

This research helps policymakers in Saudi Arabia and worldwide identify the factors moderating GHG emissions, and accordingly design targeted interventions. These initiatives would substantially reduce GHG and further global climate goals. Additionally, focusing on Saudi Arabia, a significant emerging country in the Middle East, has broader implications. The findings offer insights that extend beyond its borders, providing valuable lessons for governments in the Middle East and worldwide to assess and improve their initiatives toward SDG13. Therefore, monitoring greenhouse gas emissions in this key country boosts global progress toward the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Furthermore, this paper aligns with the Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME) by leveraging academic and managerial strategies toward sustainability and climate action initiatives.

Originality/value

This study adds to the limited literature on the determinants of GHG emissions in the Middle Eastern region, particularly in Saudi Arabia. In addition to CO2, it also focuses on CH4 and N2O emissions. It shows the beneficial effect of renewable internal freshwater resources. It uses the ARDL model to distinguish between the short- and long-run associations.
Assessment of Earthquake Evacuation Shelter Capacity in Seoul: A Geographic Information Systems‐Based Analysis of Transient Population Accommodation in Critical Infrastructure
Authors: Park Hyun Soo , Kwon Seol A.
Published: January 2025

This study assesses the capacity of earthquake evacuation shelters in Seoul, South Korea, focusing on their ability to accommodate the transient population, a key aspect of the city's critical infrastructure. Using GIS‐based spatial analysis, the research examines population fluctuations across different times of day, weekdays versus weekends, and seasonal variations. The results reveal significant shortcomings in the current shelter infrastructure, with many areas unable to effectively accommodate residents. Larger shelters are found to support more people from nearby regions, whereas smaller shelters often leave many areas only partially accommodated or completely unserved. This persistent issue across various temporal and population changes underscores the need for a comprehensive disaster preparedness strategy. Key recommendations include the strategic expansion of existing shelters, optimal placement of new shelters, and the adoption of advanced technologies for real‐time population tracking. Additionally, the study highlights the importance of enhancing public awareness through regular drills and developing urban planning policies that incorporate disaster management. Fostering collaboration among government agencies, private stakeholders, and community organisations is also essential. By addressing these gaps, Seoul can improve its resilience and better protect its residents during seismic events, emphasising the critical need for innovative disaster preparedness strategies in urban settings.
The prevalence of self‐neglect among older adults: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Mao Qi , Huang Zhaojing , Zhang Lulu
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To quantitatively pool the overall prevalence of self‐neglect in older adults and provide evidence‐based information for healthcare professionals to develop preventive measures.

Methods

Systematically and thoroughly searched ten databases from inception to September 1, 2024 and we pooled the prevalence of self‐neglect in older adults using a random‐effects model based on the Stata 15.0 software.

Results

In our meta‐analysis, 21 studies were included, and the estimated prevalence rate of self‐neglect among older adults was 27% (95% CI: 23%–30%). We found that the incidence of self‐neglect was higher in males, aged 80 years, developing countries, hospitals, and using the Elder Self‐Neglect Questionnaire assessment tool.

Conclusion

Self‐neglect is a common and underestimated phenomenon in older adults, and the prevalence rate of self‐neglect is high. Several epidemiological characteristics such as gender, age, countries, settings, and definition criteria were associated with its prevalence. It deserves early screening and targeted intervention by using a globally accepted definition of self‐neglect to prevent older adults from self‐neglect.

Implications for nursing practice

Our study can provide clinical evidence for nursing staff and healthcare professionals to identify high‐risk groups of self‐neglect in older adults.
Cross‐tissue comparison of epigenetic aging clocks in humans
Authors: Apsley Abner T. , Ye Qiaofeng , Caspi Avshalom , Chiaro Christopher , Etzel Laura , Hastings Waylon J. , Heim Christine M. , Kozlosky John , Noll Jennie G. , Schreier Hannah M. C. , Shenk Chad E. , Sugden Karen , Shalev Idan
Published: January 2025

Epigenetic clocks are a common group of tools used to measure biological aging—the progressive deterioration of cells, tissues, and organs. Epigenetic clocks have been trained almost exclusively using blood‐based tissues, but there is growing interest in estimating epigenetic age using less‐invasive oral‐based tissues (i.e., buccal or saliva) in both research and commercial settings. However, differentiated cell types across body tissues exhibit unique DNA methylation landscapes and age‐related alterations to the DNA methylome. Applying epigenetic clocks derived from blood‐based tissues to estimate epigenetic age of oral‐based tissues may introduce biases. We tested the within‐person comparability of common epigenetic clocks across five tissue types: buccal epithelial, saliva, dry blood spots, buffy coat (i.e., leukocytes), and peripheral blood mononuclear cells. We tested 284 distinct tissue samples from 83 individuals aged 9–70 years. Overall, there were significant within‐person differences in epigenetic clock estimates from oral‐based versus blood‐based tissues, with average differences of almost 30 years observed in some age clocks. In addition, most epigenetic clock estimates of blood‐based tissues exhibited low correlation with estimates from oral‐based tissues despite controlling for cellular proportions and other technical factors. Notably, the Skin and Blood clock exhibited the greatest concordance across all tissue types, indicating its unique ability to estimate chronological age in oral‐ and blood‐based tissues. Our findings indicate that application of blood‐derived epigenetic clocks in oral‐based tissues may not yield comparable estimates of epigenetic age, highlighting the need for careful consideration of tissue type when estimating epigenetic age.
Predictors of the intention to adopt residential photovoltaics in Cambodia–A psychological perspective
Authors: Deuß Andreas , Theis Anna , Sok Serey , Op Vanna , Blöbaum Anke
Published: January 2025

Cambodia has a high potential for the use of residential photovoltaics (RPV), a promising approach to mitigate climate change, but the country is lagging behind in realising this potential. This paper attempts to empirically investigate what motivates and hinders Cambodians' intentions to adopt RPV from a psychological perspective. To answer this research question, an integrative theoretical framework based on the value−belief−norm (VBN) theory and the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) was used. Data was collected by means of a survey, distributed among individuals belonging to the urban middle and upper classes of Cambodia's capital, Phnom Penh. The data of N = 272 participants was then analysed using structural equation modelling and Gaussian graphical modelling. The results revealed that participants' intention to adopt RPV is associated both with the motivation to protect the environment and with the motivation to make a reasoned decision within the role of consumer. The study's results are discussed with particular regard to practical implications that can be derived from them, e.g., the design of potential communicative strategies that can be used to foster the intention to adopt RPV in the future.
CT‐P39 Compared With Reference Omalizumab in Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria: Results From a Double‐Blind, Randomized, Active‐Controlled, Phase 3 Study
Authors: Saini Sarbjit S. , Maurer Marcus , Dytyatkovska Yevgeniya , Springer Ewa , Ratkova Maria , Krusheva Borislava , Park Chun Wook , Pulka Grazyna , Chełmińska Marta , Reich Adam , Kim Sunghyun , Ahn Keumyoung , Kim Suyoung , Lee Sewon , Ka Jieun , Kim Jongho , Grattan Clive
Published: January 2025

Background

This study compared the therapeutic equivalence of CT‐P39 (an omalizumab biosimilar) and EU‐approved reference omalizumab (ref‐OMA) in patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria.

Methods

This double‐blind, randomized, active‐controlled Phase 3 study (NCT04426890) included two 12‐week treatment periods (TPs). In TP1, patients received CT‐P39 300 mg, ref‐OMA 300 mg, CT‐P39 150 mg, or ref‐OMA 150 mg. In TP2, patients treated with ref‐OMA 300 mg were rerandomized to CT‐P39 300 mg or ref‐OMA 300 mg; patients initially randomized to CT‐P39 300 mg continued this regimen; and patients initially randomized to CT‐P39 or ref‐OMA 150 mg received 300 mg dosing with the same drug. The primary endpoint for the assessment of therapeutic equivalence of CT‐P39 300 mg and ref‐OMA 300 mg was change from baseline in weekly itch severity score (ISS7) at week 12.

Results

In TP1, 619 patients were randomized (CT‐P39 300 mg, n = 204; ref‐OMA 300 mg, n = 205; CT‐P39 150 mg, n = 107; ref‐OMA 150 mg, n = 103). Equivalence was demonstrated between CT‐P39 300 mg and ref‐OMA 300 mg for mean change from baseline in ISS7 at week 12; confidence intervals (CIs) were within predefined equivalence margins: global analysis: treatment difference 0.77, 95% CI –0.37 to 1.90; US analysis: treatment difference 0.70, 90% CI –0.22 to 1.63. The proportion of patients experiencing ≥ 1 treatment‐related adverse event was comparable across groups. Secondary efficacy, quality of life, pharmacokinetic, safety, and immunogenicity outcomes were comparable between groups at a given dose level, with no evident impact of switching.

Conclusions

Equivalent efficacy was observed between CT‐P39 and ref‐OMA, with comparable safety also evident.
Does habit strength moderate affective responses to movement‐related behaviors among older adults?
Authors: Hudgins Brynn L. , Maher Jaclyn P.
Published: January 2025

Physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SB) are associated with affective feeling states in older adults, though the strength and direction of associations vary. This study used the Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) to determine how habit strength affects affective responses to movement behaviors. Older adults completed a 4‐day EMA protocol with 10 randomly delivered, smartphone assessments per day while simultaneously wearing two activity monitors recording PA and SB. Multilevel models assessed whether habit strength moderated positive and negative activated and deactivated affective responses following movement behaviors. Older adults with stronger PA habits had a more positive within‐person association between steps in the 30 minutes before the prompt and positive deactivated affect at the prompt compared to older adults with weaker PA habits (B = 0.001, p < 0.05). Older adults with stronger SB habits had a more positive within‐person association between time spent sitting in the 30 and 60 minutes before the prompt and negative activated affect at the prompt compared to older adults with weaker SB habits (30 min: B = 0.001, p < 0.05; 60 min: B = 0.001, p < 0.05). PA habits may enhance positive affective responses to PA further encouraging engagement in PA, while SB habits exacerbate negative affective responses to SB in older adults.
Advantages of Robotic Total Mesorectal Excision With Partial Prostatectomy Compared With Open Surgery for Rectal Cancer: A Single‐Center Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Shimano Rumi , Kasai Shunsuke , Kagawa Hiroyasu , Shiomi Akio , Manabe Shoichi , Yamaoka Yusuke , Tanaka Yusuke , Igaki Takahiro , Nankaku Akitoshi , Kinugasa Yusuke
Published: January 2025

Aim

Robotic total mesorectal excision (TME) with resection of adjacent organs has been increasingly used for locally advanced rectal cancer; however, few studies have focused on robotic TME with partial prostatectomy. Therefore, this study aimed to demonstrate the advantages of robotic TME with partial prostatectomy compared with open surgery for rectal cancer.

Method

This retrospective cohort study examined consecutive patients with rectal cancer who underwent robotic or open TME with partial prostatectomy at a high‐volume center in Japan from April 2003 to March 2022. The patients were divided into robotic (n = 14) and open (n = 11) surgery groups. The short‐ and long‐term outcomes of these patients were compared.

Results

More transabdominal partial prostatectomies were performed in the robotic surgery group than in the open surgery group (71.4% vs. 9.1%, p = 0.001). Moreover, sphincter‐preserving surgery was performed in 35.7% of patients in the robotic surgery group. The robotic surgery group had shorter operative times (401 min vs. 435 min, p = 0.047), less blood loss (56 mL vs. 484 mL, p < 0.001), lower complication rates (28.6% vs. 72.7%, p = 0.047), and shorter postoperative hospital stays (8 days vs. 18 days, p < 0.001) than the open surgery group. No significant differences were observed in the positive radial margin rate (7.1% vs. 9.1%, p = 1.000) or long‐term outcomes between the two groups.

Conclusion

Compared with open surgery, robotic TME with partial prostatectomy facilitates transabdominal partial prostatectomy, resulting in more sphincter‐preserving surgeries and better short‐term outcomes.
Unravelling sources of variability on rocuronium pharmacokinetics: Implications for prolonged recovery in older patients
Authors: Happ Miriam S. R. , Pippa Leandro F. , Lauretti Gabriela R. , Gebhart Anthony R. , Weindl Günther , Azeredo Francine J. , Vozmediano Valvanera , Schmidt Stephan , de Moraes Natalia V.
Published: January 2025

Aims

Residual neuromuscular blockade (RNB) commonly occurs when using neuromuscular blockers and increases the risk for pulmonary complications, such as airway obstruction and severe hypoxemia, in extubated patients. Rocuronium exhibits a high variability in recovery time, contributing to an increased risk for RNB. This study aimed to identify and characterize the sources of variability in rocuronium exposure and response via a population pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) analysis and to apply the developed PK/PD model to investigate clinical implications.

Methods

A nonlinear mixed‐effect model was developed for rocuronium in patients undergoing general anaesthesia, using doses of 0.3–1.2 mg/kg. Plasma concentrations and the neuromuscular block (train of four ratio) were assessed up to 6 h after dosing. The influence of age, body mass index, renal function and sex on PK and PD was explored. Simulations were performed to predict the recovery time.

Results

A two‐compartment model with linear elimination and an indirect sigmoid I‐max model was used to describe PK and PD. The transfer rate into the periphery increases with age. The predicted recovery time was significantly longer in older subjects aged 85 years (median: 2.8 h; interquartile range [IQR]: 2.18–4.0) compared to young adults aged 25 years (median: 2.5 h; IQR: 2.0–3.1) following single bolus administrations of doses ≥ 0.7 mg/kg.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that older patients take slightly longer to recover than younger adults due to an age‐dependent increase in tissue uptake. However, a priori dose adjustments for rocuronium in older patients are not feasible, since age contribution is overshadowed by the overall variability in the recovery time.
From Thought to Action: The Decision‐Making Process of Foster Parents
Authors: Lopez Giulia , Sichel Francesco , Sallay Viola , Iafrate Raffaella
Published: January 2025

Although foster care represents an essential practice for helping children and families in difficult situations, nowadays, in Italy, the number of people open to engaging in this kind of care is limited compared to the real need, and agencies have difficulties recruiting new foster parents. The present qualitative study is aimed at identifying the process that leads families to become foster parents and investigating how this decision has been put into practice, with the aim of improving practices in the foster care system. A constructivist grounded theory approach was used to study the experiences of foster parent dyads in Northern Italy. The basic social process of ‘acting generatively’ was identified. This represented the inner need to act experienced by the people who approach foster care and who are guided by the desire to go beyond the self, to serve others and to take care of future generations. Six axial codes representing the six main phases in this process, characterized from a sociorelational point of view, were identified: values awareness, generative ideation, generative agreement, evaluation, generative intention and generative action. This article describes a foster decision‐making model that may help social workers in recruiting foster families.
Sown wildflower fields and hedgerows synergistically promote insectivorous bats
Authors: Peter Franziska , Bleumer Rebecca , Christophersen Christina Martinez , Matern Sally , Diekötter Tim
Published: January 2025

Despite their relevance for anthropogenic impacts on biodiversity, synergistic effects are rarely considered in conservation science or management. However, the implementation of single agri‐environment measures may limit their potential benefits for biodiversity since species often require a multitude of complementary key resources, particularly in homogeneous and structurally poor landscapes. To advance conservation management, we studied whether hedgerows promote benefits of sown wildflower fields for insectivorous bats in temperate agro‐ecosystems. At 12 study sites, we simultaneously monitored bat activity and insect abundances from early to late summer at paired locations, that is, the ecotone of a sown wildflower field bordering a hedgerow and an open boundary of the same wildflower field. Particularly in early and mid‐summer, we found distinct preferences of bats for the ecotone of wildflower field and hedgerow. Yet, independent of the season, neither insects nor specifically moths showed a significant preference for the ecotone. Finally, both bat activity as well as insect abundances shifted towards the ecotone when distance to the nearest forest patch was high. We showed that synergies of hedgerows and wildflower fields promote benefits of the latter for both edge‐ and open‐space foraging bats, particularly in homogeneous and structurally poor agricultural landscapes. Therefore, successful conservation management should take advantage of synergies between complementary conservation measures at the local patch scale and at the same time, account for landscape composition and configuration.
Efficacy of myo‐inositol and zinc on insulin resistance in a paediatric population with obesity
Authors: Antoniotti Valentina , Partenope Cristina , Solito Arianna , Mancioppi Valentina , Baima Jessica , Medina Federico , Dimarakis Sotirios , Agostini Alida , Sista Maria T. , Monzani Alice , Scotti Lorenza , Rabbone Ivana , Prodam Flavia , Bellone Simonetta
Published: January 2025

Aim

To assess the efficacy of the combined administration of myo‐inositol and zinc, a mineral involved in the insulin pathway, in paediatric obesity with insulin resistance on HOMA‐IR, glucose‐insulin metabolism, and lipid profile.

Materials and Methods

Double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled study conducted in North Italy. Fifty‐six patients (10–18 years, Tanner stage ≥3) with obesity and insulin resistance were randomized to myo‐inositol (2000 mg), zinc gluconate (5 mg), and galactooligosaccharides (GOS) from plant‐based origin (1000 mg) (TRT) or placebo (PLC) containing only GOS from plant‐based origin (1000 mg). All patients received an isocaloric diet following the Mediterranean diet style. Data were collected at baseline (V0) and after 3 months (V1). The primary outcome was the insulin resistance index (HOMA‐IR).

Results

Fifty out of 56 recruited subjects completed the study. TRT improved HDL cholesterol level compared to PLC (p = 0.05) but not insulin resistance. A stratified post hoc analysis was performed by sex, BMI, and subgroups of adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Subjects were divided for obesity grade, fasting insulin (p = 0.0137) and HOMA‐IR (p = 0.0273) were lower in TRT than in PLC patients, with a greater effect on severe obesity. No adverse events were detected.

Conclusion

Three months of supplementation with myo‐inositol and zinc were beneficial on lipid profile and in managing obesity complications at least in subjects with severe phenotype. Thus, myo‐inositol and zinc could be used as non‐pharmacological agents. This work suggests a long‐term study with a larger sample size to enrich the findings.
Central bank cooperation 1930–2: A reappraisal
Authors: Flores Zendejas Juan , Nodari Gianandrea
Published: January 2025

The literature on interwar monetary history has argued that the lack of central bank cooperation contributed to the pervasive economic outcome of the 1930s. The reasons for this failure are still an object of debate. In this paper, we revisit the attitude of individual central banks to the attempts led by the Bank for International Settlements (BIS) to institutionalize central bank cooperation. We present original archival evidence to show that the 1931 crisis in central Europe emerged as an exogenous shock, prompting the BIS to become an international lender of last resort and to increase the resources at its disposal. However, the BIS relied on member central banks’ discretionary behaviour, which was far from supportive. Whilst the literature has mainly focused on the core central banks’ negative attitude towards BIS lending of last resort operations, we observe a general reticence to foster the BIS's structural and autonomous capacity to provide stabilization loans. Whilst politics also played a role in periphery countries, a major claim of this paper is that central banks shared a significant concern about profit‐making reserve management, thereby limiting the BIS's available resources and capacity to lend. We conclude that these structural weaknesses profoundly hindered a multilateral response to the crises of the 1930s.
An Analysis of Students' Perceptions of Strategies to Improve Well‐Being in Dentistry
Authors: Chan Charlotte Cheuk Kwan , Fok Elise Hoi Wan , Botelho Michael George
Published: January 2025

Introduction

A number of papers have reported on stressors to students in the dental curriculum. This paper analyses perceptions of strategies to improve well‐being among final‐year dental students in a dental curriculum.

Methods

A literature review was performed to create a question guide to explore issues of wellness and stress in a dental curriculum. Final‐year dental students were invited to an interview using random sampling and issues related to strategies for well‐being were analysed by an inductive–deductive approach.

Results

Fourteen interviews were conducted, yielding three themes under the overarching domain of strategies to improve dental student well‐being. Under the theme of well‐being management, students wished for training on stress reduction for their personal well‐being and guidance on communication, referral and mental health support to manage the well‐being of colleagues and patients. The second theme, mentoring, covered peer support in the form of a ‘buddy system’ and sharing from recent graduates to help students gain practical and career advice about post‐graduation challenges. Finally, suggestions for institutional support included providing in‐house counsellors in the dental hospital with specialised knowledge about the unique concerns of dental students and clear leave of absence policies that treat mental and physical health equally to encourage help‐seeking and reduce the fear of disclosure.

Conclusion

The experiences of final‐year dental students were sampled to explore potential approaches to improve well‐being in the dental school environment. Guided by these student perspectives, specific strategies have been implemented and recommended to improve the wellness support provided by the faculty for dental students.
I love you no matter what: Negative relationship quality and daily encounters in the parent–child tie and their implications for daily mood across the lifespan
Authors: Stephenson Jane M. , Turkelson Angela , Fingerman Karen L. , Birditt Kira S.
Published: January 2025

Parent–child relationship quality has critical implications for parental emotional well‐being across the lifespan. The present study assessed how relationship quality is related to daily encounters between parents and children, how those encounters are linked with parents' mood, and how these associations vary by age. Participants (N = 129, ages 33–91) reported baseline relationship quality with a total of 337 children (ages 1–69). In ecological momentary assessments, participants reported encounters with their children and their mood every 3 h for 4 days (N = 2220). Analyses revealed that relationship quality was not associated with whether parents had contact with their children. More negative relationship quality was positively associated with unpleasant encounters and negatively associated with pleasant encounters with children. Pleasant encounters with a child were associated with a more positive mood regardless of relationship quality. Unpleasant encounters were associated with a more negative mood, particularly when parents had a more negative relationship with their children. These associations varied significantly by age. Parents were more likely to have contact with more irritating adolescent children than less irritating adolescents and were less likely to have unpleasant encounters with children in emerging adulthood compared to childhood. Older parents' moods were not as strongly associated with unpleasant encounters, though the likelihood of experiencing unpleasant encounters was more closely tied to relationship quality for older parents than younger parents. These findings have important implications for understanding the relationship between family conflict and emotional well‐being across the life course.
Analysis of Contact and Bending Fatigue for Double‐Helical Planetary Gear Train Based on Efficient Critical Plane Methods
Authors: Chen Zhuang , Dong Qingbing , Shi Xiujiang , Huang Weimin , Zhao Bo
Published: January 2025

Contact and bending fatigue are the main failure modes in gears. In this study, we propose a finite element model to investigate the fatigue behavior of a double‐helical planetary gearbox based on the critical plane methods with a search algorithm to improve calculation efficiency. The finite element mesh is generated along the direction of the contact line to accurately capture contact stress. The time‐varying coefficient of friction between contact surfaces and the residual stress in the hardened layer are considered in the developed model. The effectiveness of the model is demonstrated by comparing the predicted fatigue life with measured data from experiments for a spur gear planetary train. It is concluded that the ability of the planet gear to resist contact fatigue dominates the service duration with fatigue cracks initiating nearly parallel to the surface. The surface hardness gradient is recommended to ensure reliable operation throughout its designed life.
Mechanisms and Damage‐Based Assessment of Time‐Dependent Fatigue Crack Propagation in Polymer Electrolyte Membrane
Authors: Cai Liang , Li Wei , Song Pilin
Published: January 2025

The time‐dependent fatigue crack propagation mechanisms of polymer electrolyte membrane are explored in conjunction with in‐situ experiments from both microscale and mesoscale. The results show that decreasing the loading frequency significantly increases the damage level at the crack front while also enhancing the near‐tip plasticity deformation. The plasticity‐induced micropores development and coalescence is considered as the dominant fatigue crack propagation mode. Then, a cyclic cohesive zone model considering the elastic–viscoplastic mechanical response of the bulk material is established, which further verified that more plasticity deformation is introduced near the crack tip at reduced loading frequency, thus imposing more damage accumulation to the crack tip. Besides, the established cyclic cohesive zone model is proved to be efficient in assessing fatigue crack propagation rate under distinct loading frequencies.
Migrant Farmworkers' Acceptability of Health Services in Spain: Barriers and Facilitators Identified by Professionals
Authors: van Selm Lena , Pérez‐Urdiales Iratxe , Úbeda‐Pavia Miquel , Tomás‐Mateos José , Jiménez‐Lasserrotte Maria del Mar , Pastor‐Bravo María del Mar , Requena‐Méndez Ana , Briones‐Vozmediano Erica
Published: January 2025

Background

Seasonal migrant farmworkers (SMF) make up a significant part of Spain's agricultural labour force. Due to precarious labour conditions, housing insecurity and factors related to migration, SMF are at risk of specific health issues and occupational accidents. In addition, migrants in Spain face barriers when accessing healthcare services. This study explores factors that influence the acceptability of healthcare services among SMF in Spain from the point of view of professionals working with this population.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted among 92 professionals working with SMF in four regions of Spain, including NGO workers, healthcare workers, employees of worker unions, public social services and governmental institutions. A thematic content analysis was performed using Atlas.ti.

Results

Professionals identified several barriers and facilitators that influence the acceptability of healthcare services among SMF. The main identified barriers were language, different perceptions of health and healthcare between SMF and Spanish professionals, a limited understanding of the Spanish healthcare system, and precarious working and living conditions. The main identified facilitators were professionals taking time to explain healthcare procedures and rights to SMF and support and information from friends, family and other community members.

Discussion and Conclusion

To overcome barriers, the use of translational services and cultural mediators should be increased. In addition, educational interventions are needed for migrants to better understand the Spanish healthcare system and for healthcare workers to provide culturally appropriate care to migrant patients. Finally, it needs to be considered that inequalities in health and healthcare between SMF and the Spanish native‐born population reach beyond healthcare institutions. They are rooted in structural factors, which include their living and working conditions, social exclusion, and discrimination.

Patient or Public Contribution

As this study, which is part of a bigger project, aimed to focus on healthcare access mainly from the healthcare system perspective, patients and service users were not involved in this part. Another sub‐study within the project will focus on the experience of SMF. Caregivers were included as study participants and despite not having been directly included in the study design, the open‐ended questions used in this study allowed them to bring up the topics they considered important in the context of this study.
Periodontitis Increases Gingival, Serum and Hippocampus β‐Amyloid Expressions but Reduces Neurovascular Coupling in Basilar Artery of Rats
Authors: Fu Earl , Huang Kuo‐Feng , Chang Hsi‐Hsien , Tseng Hui‐Hwa , Yang Stephen Shei‐Dei
Published: January 2025

Aim

Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by early increased beta‐amyloid (Aβ) and decreased cerebrovascular reactivity. We investigated Aβ in gingiva, serum or hippocampus and neurovascular reactivity in basilar artery (BA) of periodontitis rats, to test the impact of Aβ on BA vasoreactivity ex vivo.

Materials and Methods

Periodontitis was induced in 32 rats using silk‐ligation. Rats were sacrificed at weeks 0, 1, 2 and 4. Gingival TNF‐α, IL‐1β and Aβ were quantified via immunoblotting. Alveolar bone destruction was examined by micro‐computed tomography. Serum and hippocampus Aβ values were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and fluorescence staining, respectively. Vasoreactivity was measured by myography on isolated BA.

Results

From Week 1, gingival TNF‐α and IL‐1β and bone destruction increased. Gingiva, serum and hippocampus Aβ values increased from Week 2. Nicotine‐induced BA relaxation declined from Week 2, while acetylcholine‐induced relaxation decreased by Week 4. Bone loss correlated with Aβ and nicotine‐induced relaxation. Correlations were observed between Aβs in tissues, between two induced BA relaxations and between Aβ expressions and the induced relaxations. Ex vivo, Aβ reduced nicotine‐ and isoproterenol‐induced relaxations but not electrical stimulated relaxation.

Conclusions

Periodontitis may increase Aβ expressions and reduce BA neurovascular reactivity, with Aβ contributing to this abnormal neurovascular coupling.
Digital Analysis of Dentogingival Factors Influencing the Gingival Margin Position in the Esthetic Zone
Authors: Abdulkarim Hesham H. , Habet Bryan , Ahmadi Alexander G. , Wang Mary Ying‐Fang , Rosales Elio Reyes , Miley D. Douglas
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To investigate the correlation between gingival thickness (GT) and buccal bone thickness (BBT), as well as the effects of GT, BBT, bone crest level (BC), and tooth position on the buccal gingival margin location of maxillary teeth in the esthetic zone.

Materials and Methods

Periodontally healthy subjects with prior cone beam computed tomography and intraoral scans for dental implant planning were included. The hard and soft tissue measurements were retrospectively analyzed digitally. Pearson's correlation and ANOVA were used to evaluate the correlations between clinical/anatomical crown height ratios (CCH/ACH), gingival and buccal bone thicknesses, and the distance between the CEJ and BC (CEJ‐BC).

Results

Forty‐two subjects with 252 teeth were analyzed. A positive correlation was found between GT and BBT (p < 0.001). GT and BBT were negatively correlated with CCH/ACH (p = 0.006 and p = 0.004, respectively), while CCH/ACH showed a positive correlation with CEJ‐BC (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Within the limitations of our study, we concluded that gingival and buccal bone thicknesses were positively correlated. A thicker gingival phenotype and higher coronal bone crest were linked to a more coronal gingival margin in the esthetic zone.