bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prenatal exposure to environmental contaminants is associated with altered cord serum metabolite profiles in future immune-mediated diseases
Authors: Karthikeyan Bagavathy Shanmugam , Hyötyläinen Tuulia , Ghaffarzadegan Tannaz , Triplett Eric , Orešič Matej , Ludvigsson Johnny
Published: November 2023

Prenatal exposure to environmental contaminants is a significant health concern because it has the potential to interfere with host metabolism, leading to adverse health effects in early childhood and later in life. Growing evidence suggests that genetic and environmental factors, as well as their interactions, play a significant role in the development of autoimmune diseases. In this study, we hypothesized that prenatal exposure to environmental contaminants impacts cord serum metabolome and contributes to the development of autoimmune diseases. We selected cord serum samples from All Babies in Southeast Sweden (ABIS) general population cohort, from infants who later developed one or more autoimmune-mediated and inflammatory diseases: celiac disease (CD), Crohn’s disease (IBD), hypothyroidism (HT), juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), and type 1 diabetes (T1D) (all cases, N = 62), along with matched controls (N = 268). Using integrated exposomics and metabolomics mass spectrometry (MS) based platforms, we determined the levels of contaminants and metabolites. Differences in exposure levels were found between the controls and those who later developed various diseases. High contaminant exposure levels were associated with changes in metabolome, including amino acids and free fatty acids. Specifically, we identified marked associations between metabolite levels and exposure levels of deoxynivalenol (DON), bisphenol S (BPS), and specific per- and polyfluorinated substances (PFAS). Our study suggests that prenatal exposure to specific environmental contaminants alters the cord serum metabolomes, which, in turn, might increase the risk of various immune-mediated disease later in life.
Characterization of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substance (PFAS) concentrations in a community-based sample of infants from Samoa
Authors: Heinsberg Lacey W. , Niu Shan , Arslanian Kendall J. , Chen Ruiwen , Bedi Megha , Unasa-Apelu Folla , Fidow Ulai T. , Soti-Ulberg Christina , Conley Yvette P. , Weeks Daniel E. , Ng Carla A. , Hawley Nicola L.
Published: November 2023

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent contaminants with documented harmful health effects. Despite increasing research, little attention has been given to studying PFAS contamination in low- and middle-income countries, including Samoa, where there is more recent modernization and potential window to examine earlier stages of PFAS exposure and consequences. Using data and biosamples collected through theFoafoaga o le Ola(“Beginning of Life”) Study, which recruited a sample of mothers and infants from Samoa, we conducted an exploratory study to describe concentrations of 40 PFAS analytes in infant cord blood collected at birth (n=66) and dried blood spots (DBS) collected at 4 months post-birth (n=50). Of the 40 PFAS analytes tested, 19 were detected in cord blood, with 11 detected in >10% of samples (PFBA, PFPeA, PFHpA, PFOA, PFNA, PFDA, PFUnA, PFTrDA, PFHxS, PFOS, and 9Cl-PF3ONS); 12 analytes were detected in DBS, with 3 detected in >10% of samples (PFBA, PFHxS, and PFOS). PFAS concentrations were generally lower than those reported in existing literature, with the exception of PFHxS, which was detected at higher concentrations. In cord blood, we noted associations between higher PFHxS and male sex, higher PFPeA and residence in Northwest ‘Upolu (NWU) compared to the Apia Urban Area (AUA), and lower PFUnA and 9Cl-PF3ONS with greater socioeconomic resources. In DBS, we found associations between higher PFBA and greater socioeconomic resources, and between lower PFBA and PFHxS and residence in NWU versus AUA. However, the latter association did not hold when controlling for socioeconomic resources. Finally, we observed associations between nutrition source at 4 months and DBS PFBA and PFHxS, with formula- or mixed-fed infants having higher concentrations compared to exclusively breastfed infants. This study presents the first evidence of PFAS contamination in Samoa. Additional work in larger samples is needed to identify potentially modifiable determinants of PFAS concentrations, information that is critical for informing environmental and health policy measures.
Associations between regional adipose tissue distribution and skeletal muscle bioenergetics in older men and women
Authors: Brennan Andrea M. , Coen Paul M. , Mau Theresa , Hetherington-Rauth Megan , Toledo Frederico G.S. , Kershaw Erin E. , Cawthon Peggy M. , Kramer Philip A. , Ramos Sofhia V. , Newman Anne B. , Cummings Steven R. , Forman Daniel E. , Yeo Reichelle X. , DiStefano Giovanna , Miljkovic Iva , Justice Jamie N. , Molina Anthony J.A. , Jurczak Michael J. , Sparks Lauren M. , Kritchevsky Stephen B. , Goodpaster Bret H.
Published: November 2023

Objective

Examine the association of ectopic adipose tissue (AT) with skeletal muscle (SM) mitochondrial bioenergetics in older adults.

Methods

Cross-sectional data from 829 older adults ≥70 years was used. Total abdominal, subcutaneous, and visceral AT; and thigh muscle fat infiltration (MFI) was quantified by MRI. SM mitochondrial energetics were characterized usingin vivo31P-MRS (ATPmax) andex vivohigh-resolution respirometry (maximal oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS)). ActivPal was used to measure PA (step count). Linear regression models adjusted for covariates were applied, with sequential adjustment for BMI and PA.

Results

Independent of BMI, total abdominal (standardized (Std.) β=-0.21; R2=0.09) and visceral AT (Std. β=-0.16; R2=0.09) were associated with ATPmax(p<0.01), but not after further adjustment for PA (p≥0.05). Visceral AT (Std. β=-0.16; R2=0.25) and thigh MFI (Std. β=-0.11; R2=0.24) were negatively associated with carbohydrate-supported maximal OXPHOS independent of BMI and PA (p<0.05). Total abdominal AT (Std. β=-0.19; R2=0.24) and visceral AT (Std. β=-0.17; R2=0.24) were associated with fatty acid-supported maximal OXPHOS independent of BMI and PA (p<0.05).

Conclusions

Skeletal MFI and abdominal visceral, but not subcutaneous AT, are inversely associated with SM mitochondrial bioenergetics in older adults independent of BMI. Associations between ectopic AT andin vivomitochondrial bioenergetics are attenuated by PA.
Clinical and Economic impact of updated Fall 2023 COVID-19 vaccines in the Immunocompromised Population in Canada
Authors: Lee Amy , Jayasundara Kavisha , Kohli Michele , Maschio Michael , Fust Kelly , Joshi Keya , van de Velde Nicolas , Beck Ekkehard
Published: November 2023

Background

Immunocompromised (IC) individuals are at increased risk of COVID-19 infection-related severe outcomes. Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 mRNA vaccines are available in Canada, and differences in vaccine effectiveness (VE) have been found between the two in IC individuals. The objective of this analysis was to compare the clinical and economic impact of a Moderna XBB.1.5 updated COVID-19 mRNA Fall 2023 vaccine to a Pfizer-BioNTech XBB.1.5 updated COVID-19 mRNA Fall 2023 vaccine in Canadian IC individuals aged ≥18 years.

Methods

A static decision-analytic model estimated the number of COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations, deaths, and resulting quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) over a one-year time horizon (September 2023-August 2024) in the Canadian IC adult population (n=894,580). Costs associated with COVID-19 infection were estimated from health care and societal perspectives. The predicted VE of the updated Moderna vaccine was based on prior variant versions, which were well-matched to the circulating variant. Pfizer-BioNTech VE was calculated based on a meta-analysis of comparative effectiveness between both vaccines (relative risk for Moderna vaccine: infection=0.85 [95%CI 0.75-0.97], hospitalization=0.88 [95%CI 0.79-0.97]). The model combined VE estimates with COVID-19 incidence and probability of COVID-19 related severe outcomes. Sensitivity analyses tested the impact of uncertainty surrounding incidence, hospitalization and mortality rates, costs, and QALYs.

Results

Given the expected higher VE against infection and hospitalizations with the Moderna Fall 2023 vaccine, its use is predicted to prevent an additional 2,411 infections (3.6%), 275 hospitalizations (3.7%), and 47 deaths (4.0%) compared to the Pfizer-BioNTech Fall 2023 vaccine, resulting in 330 QALYs gained, and savings of $7.4M in infection treatment costs, and $0.9M in productivity loss costs. Results were most sensitive to variations in VE parameters, specifically the relative risk of infection and hospitalizations between the vaccines, and waning rates.

Conclusions

If the Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech Fall 2023 vaccines protect against infection and hospitalizations similar to previous vaccines, using the Moderna Fall 2023 vaccine would result in substantial public health benefits in IC individuals, as well as provide health care and societal cost savings.
Protocol for a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Study of Participants in the Fever Randomized Controlled Trial: Does fever control prevent brain injury in malaria?
Authors: Chilombe Moses B. , Seydel Karl B. , Hammond Colleen , Mwanza Suzanna , Patel Archana A. , Lungu Frank , wa Somwe Somwe , Kampondeni Sam , Potchen Michael J. , McDermott Michael P. , Birbeck Gretchen L.
Published: November 2023

Background

Despite eradication efforts, ∼135,000 African children sustained brain injuries as a result of central nervous system (CNS) malaria in 2021. Newer antimalarial medications rapidly clear peripheral parasitemia and improve survival, but mortality remains high with no associated decline in post-malaria neurologic injury. A randomized controlled trial of aggressive antipyretic therapy with acetaminophen and ibuprofen (Fever RCT) for malarial fevers being conducted in Malawi and Zambia began enrollment in 2019. We propose to use neuroimaging in the context of the RCT to further evaluate neuroprotective effects of aggressive antipyretic therapy.

Methods

This observational magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) ancillary study will obtain neuroimaging and neurodevelopmental and behavioral outcomes in children previously enrolled in the Fever RCT at 1- and 12-months post discharge. Analysis will compare the odds of any brain injury between the aggressive antipyretic therapy and usual care groups based upon MRI structural abnormalities. For children unable to undergo imaging without deep sedation, neurodevelopmental and behavioral outcomes will be used to identify brain injury.

Discussion

Neuroimaging is a well-established, valid proxy for neurological outcomes after brain injury in pediatric CNS malaria. This MRI ancillary study will add value to the Fever RCT by determining if treatment with aggressive antipyretic therapy is neuroprotective in CNS malaria. It may also help elucidate the underlying mechanism(s) of neuroprotection and expand upon FEVER RCT safety assessments.
The recent rapid expansion of multidrug resistant strains ofMycobacterium tuberculosisUral lineage 4.2 in the Republic of Moldova
Authors: Chitwood Melanie H. , Colijn Caroline , Yang Chongguang , Crudu Valeriu , Ciobanu Nelly , Codreanu Alexandru , Kim Jaehee , Rancu Isabel , Rhee Kyu , Cohen Ted , Sobkowiak Benjamin
Published: November 2023

The projected trajectory of multidrug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) epidemics depends on the reproductive fitness of circulating strains of MDRM. tuberculosis (Mtb). Previous efforts to characterize the fitness of MDRMtbhave found thatMtbstrains of the Beijing sublineage (Lineage 2.2.1) may be more prone to develop resistance and retain fitness in the presence of resistance-conferring mutations than other lineages. UsingMtbgenome sequences from all culture-positive cases collected over two years in Moldova, we estimate the fitness of Ural (Lineage 4.2) and Beijing strains, the two lineages in which MDR is concentrated in the country. We estimate that the fitness of MDR Ural strains substantially exceeds that of other susceptible and MDR strains, and we identify several mutations specific to these MDR Ural strains. Our findings suggest that MDR UralMtbhas been transmitting efficiently in Moldova and poses a substantial risk of spreading further in the region.
Management of patients with occupational burnout in Switzerland: some insights on the heterogeneity in current practices
Authors: Canu Irina Guseva , Getzmann Roger , Shoman Yara , Rota Fulvia , Saillant Stéphane , von Känel Roland , Cohidon Christine , Lazor-Blanchet Catherine , Rochat Lysiane , Weissbrodt Rafaël , Droz Nadia , Wahlen Anny
Published: November 2023

We aimed to describe the characteristics and current practices of Swiss health professionals who manage patients with occupational burnout (POB), namely the general practitioners (GP), psychiatrist-psychotherapists (PP), occupational physicians (OP) and psychologists. Among 3216 respondents, 2951 reported to consult POB, and 1130 (713 physicians and 410 psychologists) to treat them. The study showed that POB management constitutes 5 to 25% of health care professionals’ consultations, with an inequal distribution of POBs across professionals’ specialties and specializations, but also across geographic regions. The profile of POB consulted also differs across professionals. Work psychologists see more often POB at early burnout stage, GPs have most patients with moderate burnout, while PPs report the largest proportion of patients with severe burnout.

The treatment practices depend on burnout severity. Psychiatrists and physicians with double specialty (GP-OPs and GP-PPs) treat patients with more severe burnout than GPs. Psychologists treating patients with severe burnout collaborate with other health professionals and contact the POB’s employer and/or health insurance. Treatment practices and burnout severity are not associated with the proportion of relapsed patients and patients who return to work. Yet, the former is associated with professionals’ age, sex, and specialty. Physicians with waiting time >3 months have a higher proportion of relapsed patients. GPs prescribe most often sick leaves, while PPs are the most frequent prescribers of pharmacological treatment. PPs collaborate significantly more often than GPs with pharmacologists and contact POB’s employer and health insurance. Among psychologists, work psychologists differ from other psychologists by a more frequent POB (psycho)education and coaching, namely on how to negotiate with employer and family, as well as on physical exercise. They also more often contact POB’s employer. Besides profession and specialization, we observed important regional variation in treatment modalities chosen by both physicians and psychologists.
Neural Mechanisms Underlying Attention Control In Relation To Anxiety And Depressive Symptoms
Authors: Loh Raye Fion , Hui Savannah Siew Kiah , Yu Junhong
Published: November 2023

Poor attention control has been implicated in the development of anxiety and depression-related disorders and it is a key diagnostic criterion. This study aims to understand the possible neural mechanisms behind this.

191 German participants aged 20-80 were assessed on their level of attention control, depression and anxiety as part of the Leipzig Study for Mind-Body-Emotion Interactions. Network-based statistics were applied to their resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) data to identify networks positively and negatively associated with attention control. Mediation analyses were then performed with these two networks as mediators.

Attention control correlated negatively with both anxiety and depression. The frontoparietal- or dorsal attention-somatomotor connections featured prominently in the attention control-positive network (ACPN). This network correlated positively with attention control, and negatively with both anxiety and depression. The attention control-negative network (ACNN) was largely represented by the ventral attention- or dorsal attention-visual connections. The ACPN was a significant and partial mediator between attention control and anxiety and a complete mediator for the relationship between attention control and depression. These findings could prove useful as neuroeducation in anxiety- and depression-related disorders, and as evidence for attention-based therapy.
Abstract representations emerge in human hippocampal neurons during inference behavior
Authors: Courellis Hristos S. , Mixha Juri , Cardenas Araceli R. , Kimmel Daniel , Reed Chrystal M. , Valiante Taufik A. , Salzman C. Daniel , Mamelak Adam N. , Fusi Stefano , Rutishauser Ueli
Published: November 2023

Humans have the remarkable cognitive capacity to rapidly adapt to changing environments. Central to this capacity is the ability to form high-level, abstract representations that take advantage of regularities in the world to support generalization1. However, little is known about how these representations are encoded in populations of neurons, how they emerge through learning, and how they relate to behavior2,3. Here we characterized the representational geometry of populations of neurons (single-units) recorded in the hippocampus, amygdala, medial frontal cortex, and ventral temporal cortex of neurosurgical patients who are performing an inferential reasoning task. We find that only the neural representations formed in the hippocampus simultaneously encode multiple task variables in an abstract, or disentangled, format. This representational geometry is uniquely observed after patients learn to perform inference, and consisted of disentangled directly observable and discovered latent task variables. Interestingly, learning to perform inference by trial and error or through verbal instructions led to the formation of hippocampal representations with similar geometric properties. The observed relation between representational format and inference behavior suggests that abstract/disentangled representational geometries are important for complex cognition.
Ablation of telomerase reverse transcriptase inLeishmania majorresults in a senescent-like phenotype and loss of infectivity
Authors: Shiburah Mark Ewusi , de Oliveira Beatriz Cristina Dias , Bisetegn Habtye , Silva Débora Andrade , de Castro Assis Luiz Henrique , Barreto Rubem Menna , Batista Marcos Meuser , de Nazaré Correia Soeiro Maria , Menozzi Benedito D. , Langoni Helio , Aoki Juliana Ide , Coelho Adriano Capellazzo , Cano Maria Isabel N.
Published: November 2023

The lack of efficient human vaccines and effective nontoxic drugs for leishmaniasis necessitates a search for new therapeutic targets. The telomere environment could provide potential targets against leishmaniasis. TERT, the telomerase reverse transcriptase component, has been on the radar for new therapeutic options against several diseases for more than two decades. In this study, we constructed a full deletion (LmTERT-/-) and an ORF disruption (LmN420) of the gene encoding the TERT component ofLeishmania major.LmTERT-/- andLmN420 parasites showed replicative and proliferative defects, growth impairment, cell cycle alterations, increased DNA damage, and progressive telomere shortening. Blockage of parasite altruism and the presence of autophagosomes characteristic of a senescent-like phenotype were also detected.LmTERT-/- andLmN420 parasites caused either micro lesion development or no visible lesions in mouse footpads and reduced infectivity in macrophages. While our checks to see if telomere erosion had reached theSCGgenes involved in lipophosphoglycan modification showed no changes, our proteomic assessment revealed a downregulation of a metacyclic-associated protein. Complementation of the knockout lineages using the WTLmTERT restored some of the lost phenotypes. Therefore, we speculate that the pleiotropic effects of the loss ofLmTERT advance the case for using it as a drug target against the parasite.
From hot to cold: dissecting lipidome adaptation inMycoplasma mycoidesand the Minimal Cell JCVI-Syn3B
Authors: Safronova Nataliya , Junghans Lisa , Saenz James P
Published: November 2023

Cell membranes insulate and mediate interactions between life and its environment, with lipids determining their properties and functions. However, the intricacies of how cells adjust their lipidome compositions to tune membrane properties remain relatively undefined. The complexity of most model organisms has made it challenging to characterize lipidomic adaptation. An ideal model system would be a relatively simple organism with a single membrane that can adapt to environmental changes, particularly temperature, which is known to affect membrane properties. To this end, we used quantitative shotgun lipidomics to analyze temperature adaptation inMycoplasma mycoidesand its minimal synthetic counterpart, JCVI-Syn3B. Comparing with lipidomes from eukaryotes and bacteria, we observed a universal logarithmic distribution of lipid abundances. Additionally, the extent of lipid remodeling needed for temperature adaptation appears relatively constrained, irrespective of lipidomic or organismal complexity. Through lipid features analysis, we demonstrate head group-specific acyl chain remodeling as characteristic of temperature-induced lipidome adaptation and its deficiency in Syn3B is associated with impaired homeoviscous adaptation. Temporal analysis uncovers a two-stage cold adaptation process: swift cholesterol and cardiolipin shifts followed by gradual acyl chain modifications. This work provides an in-depth analysis of lipidome adaptation in minimal cells, laying a foundation to probe the fundamental design principles of living membranes.
FBXO24 deletion causes abnormal accumulation of membraneless electron-dense granules in sperm flagella and male infertility
Authors: Kaneda Yuki , Miyata Haruhiko , Xu Zoulan , Shimada Keisuke , Kamoshita Maki , Nakagawa Tatsuya , Emori Chihiro , Ikawa Masahito
Published: November 2023

Ribonucleoprotein (RNP) granules are membraneless electron-dense structures rich in RNAs and proteins, and involved in various cellular processes. Two RNP granules in male germ cells, intermitochondrial cement and the chromatoid body (CB), are associated with PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs) and are required for transposon silencing and spermatogenesis. Other RNP granules in male germ cells, the reticulated body and CB remnants, are also essential for spermiogenesis. In this study, we disrupted FBXO24, a testis-enriched F-box protein, in mice and found numerous membraneless electron-dense granules accumulated in sperm flagella.Fbxo24knockout (KO) mice exhibited malformed flagellar structures, impaired sperm motility, and male infertility, likely due to the accumulation of abnormal granules. The amount and localization of known RNP granule-related proteins were not disrupted inFbxo24KO mice, suggesting that the accumulated granules were distinct from known RNP granules. Further studies revealed that RNAs and two importins, IPO5 and KPNB1, abnormally accumulated inFbxo24KO spermatozoa and that FBXO24 could ubiquitinate IPO5. In addition, IPO5 and KPNB1 were recruited to stress granules, RNP complexes, when cells were treated with oxidative stress or a proteasome inhibitor. These results suggest that FBXO24 is involved in the degradation of IPO5, disruption of which may lead to the accumulation of abnormal RNP granules in sperm flagella.
Understanding the use of travel and restaurant platforms through the UTAUT2 model
Authors: García de Blanes Sebastián María , Azuara Grande Alberto , Sarmiento Guede José Ramón
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Reservation of travel and leisure services through the digital environment has gained a growing role in society, influencing the revolution of the sector. It needs to be noted that there is a considerable lack of formal approaches to the identification of factors for the positive reception and use of these digital tools. For this reason, it is necessary to establish the main factors influencing the adoption and use of digital travel and restaurant platforms (TRPs), adding to the theoretical model two new factors: trust and word-of-mouth (WOM). This paper aims to discuss the aforementioned ideas.

Design/methodology/approach

A theoretical model has been proposed, based on the extended unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT2). Data collection was conducted through an online survey, in which 331 responses were compiled. Data obtained were analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM) with AMOS v27 software.

Findings

The results show that performance expectancy and WOM have a significant impact on the adoption of TRPs. However, it was found that effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions, trust and price/value are not significant variables.

Social implications

This research confirms that WOM communication positively influences the use of TRPs, facilitating various aspects for restaurant customers, including reducing wait times, streamlining the ordering process for allergic and intolerant customers, enhancing loyalty programs, order management and the opportunity to provide a personalised experience.

Originality/value

This study is the first to incorporate WOM variable into the extended UTAUT2 model applied to TRPs. Through a literature review, it has paved the way for significant future research directions that have not been adequately addressed by the scientific community, including the adoption and usage of food delivery platforms and online review platforms, as well as the behaviour of disabled customers towards these platforms.
Can female executives improve employment relations outcomes? Empirical evidence from China with gender implications
Authors: Yuan Fang , Cooke Fang Lee , Fang Xiaozhen , An Fansuo , He Yiming
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Despite the growing research interest in gender diversity, the presence of female executives and organizational outcomes, the relationship between female executives and employment relations outcomes remains under-researched. This study aims to examine the potential relationship between female executives and employment relations outcomes, with the gender gap as a focus.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional survey was used to collect data from 2,682 workers from 119 manufacturing firms in Guangdong Province, southern China.

Findings

Results show that firms with female executives are more likely to comply with labor laws and promote staff development. The association between female executives and promotion opportunities is stronger for female employees than for male employees. However, there is no significant association between female executives and employee salaries.

Originality/value

This research contributes to employment relations literature and extends the application of social role theory to studies of employment relations in particular societal contexts. This study also provides possible boundary conditions for the existence of queen bee behavior by using data from Chinese factories.
Determinants of effective instructors in higher education institutions: a cross-cultural comparison
Authors: Alhajeri Salem , AlTameemy Farooq Ahmed
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The quality of higher education has become a topic of increasing interest to researchers in recent decades. This study, therefore, aims to investigate the comparative effectiveness of instructors at higher education institutions in Kuwait and the USA, while also investigating the parallel differences in student culture and gender.

Design/methodology/approach

The researchers employed a quantitative research paradigm, using a questionnaire survey method to examine four dimensions of effective instructorship (teaching skills, human relations, ethics, and assessment). Descriptive statistics were used to analyze data from 254 college students (N = 254), comprising 132 students at Bemidji State University in the USA and 122 students at Kuwait University in Kuwait.

Findings

The findings showed that students ranked “human relations” as the most significant attribute of an effective university instructor. Study results also indicated that culture is an important influencer of student perceptions regarding effective instructor characteristics. Gender also played a role in student perceptions of teacher effectiveness. Cross-culturally, female participants ranked teacher effectiveness dimensions such as human relations, ethics, and assessment, significantly higher than did their male colleagues, while within each culture, male students at the American university showed significantly greater concern for ethics in comparison to their counterparts in Kuwait.

Originality/value

This study offers findings from a cross-cultural comparative perspective. It provides value to administrators, deans, and department chairs at higher educational institutions who are evaluating their current rank, tenure, and promotions criteria and processes for teaching faculty. Additionally, while K-12 education has received significant attention over the past few decades regarding the qualities and practices of effective teachers in that realm, this study extends such research significantly into higher education.
Organizational resilience: unveiling the role of strategic internal crisis management on employee sensemaking and sensegiving
Authors: Adamu Adamu Abbas , Raza Syed Hassan , Mohamad Bahtiar
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Communication with employees during times of crisis has become a crucial aspect of crisis management for building organizational resilience knowledge. Thus, explaining how internal crisis management promotes positive employee behaviour has become imperative. This study aims to investigate the relationship between internal crisis communication, job engagement, Organizational Citizenship Behaviour towards the Environment, Communicative behaviour for sensemaking and sensegiving and organizational resilience.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey was conducted with 483 full-time employees in Pakistan. The structural equation modelling technique was employed to assess the study's hypotheses.

Findings

The findings of this study demonstrate that internal crisis communication can boost employee job engagement, organizational citizenship behaviour towards environment, sensemaking and sensegiving, which will also have a downstream effect on organizational resilience.

Practical implications

The findings of this study indicated that effective internal communication can aid managers in making well-informed decisions, coordinating response efforts and disseminating vital information to relevant stakeholders. As a result, this study contributes to the literature on internal crisis management by incorporating employee behavioural intention towards the environment. It provides managers and practitioners with knowledge on managing employees during a crisis.

Originality/value

Surprisingly, the conservation of resource theory (COR) does not explain communicative conduct (sensegiving) and environmental (e.g. organizational citizenship behaviour towards environment) components. This research combines the tenets of COR theory that have yet to be researched with the employees' environmental responses element. The mechanisms of cognition and communication were also ignored in earlier studies. This study sheds light on the process through which higher levels of job engagement, organizational citizenship behaviour towards environment and the capacity for comprehension (e.g. sensemaking) and meaning-transmission (e.g. sensegiving) ultimately help organizations navigate the crisis successfully.
A revised digital media–arena framework guiding strategic communication in digital environments
Authors: Badham Mark , Luoma-aho Vilma , Valentini Chiara
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This paper refines the Digital Media–Arena (DMA) framework to address the diversity of stakeholders contributing to the production, (re)appropriation and (re)distribution of organisational messages in digital environments. It also presents a case analysis for the purpose of demonstrating the applicability of the revised conceptual framework to a critical situation.

Design/methodology/approach

Grounded in key public relations, corporate communication and strategic communication research, this study first extends the DMA framework by introducing six new forms of media-arenas. Next, the study takes a public sector perspective to analyse the revised framework against a critical situation involving the Finnish prime minister in summer 2022.

Findings

The application of the revised DMA framework to analyse the critical situation shows the importance of mapping and understanding diverse discourses across multi-arenas and their communication role in a rapidly unfolding scandal surrounding the prime minister of Finland. Findings also reveal the diversity of stakeholder voices forming their own versions of organisational messages and sometimes converging organisational messages within and across DMAs.

Practical implications

The DMA framework can offer practical suggestions to guide communicators to make strategic choices in what, where, how and with whom they can communicate.

Originality/value

The revised DMA framework contributes expanding the field's knowledge of the strategic communicative use of the digital environment in typically highly volatile and multi-vocal situations by offering instrumental understanding of the conflicting challenge between subjugating and liberating organisational messages across the digital spectrum.
Severe acute urticaria is associated with elevated plasma levels of D‐dimer
Authors: Chen Lele , Xu Qiuyang , Liu Jingjing , Li Zhiming , Wang Jingying
Published: November 2023

Evaluation of the disease severity of acute urticaria (AU) is essential for adequate treatment of patients. However, there are no reliable biomarkers for such an evaluation. In our department, we observed patients with severe AU having elevated plasma D‐dimer levels. Thus, the objective of this study was to investigate the elevated D‐dimer levels in patients with severe AU in more detail. One hundred and thirty‐nine hospital patients diagnosed with severe AU were enrolled. Clinical laboratory data were collected from electronic medical records. One hundred and seventeen of the patients presented with elevated plasma D‐dimer levels. Compared to the normal group, the elevated group had a significantly higher proportion of patients who were female, younger, febrile, and had a shorter prehospital time (P < 0.05). Univariate regression analysis showed that neutrophil percentage, C‐reactive protein (CRP), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels increased as D‐dimer levels increased, while prehospital time showed the opposite trend. Multiple regression analysis was used to estimate the simultaneous effects of CRP and LDH on D‐dimer levels. Patients who responded to additional antibiotic treatment had higher levels of D‐dimer. The group with highly elevated D‐dimer levels required a higher maximum dose of daily glucocorticoids (GCs) to control the symptoms of AU. In conclusion, patients with severe AU might have elevated plasma D‐dimer levels, which are positively correlated with CRP and LDH levels. Patients with severe AU with dramatically elevated D‐dimer levels might need a higher dose of daily GCs and antibiotics to relieve symptoms. D‐dimer may be a reasonable marker to evaluate the severity of AU and guide treatment.
Incidence rate of alopecia areata in Israel: A 15‐year analysis of population‐based data and the emergence of young male adults as the most at‐risk group
Authors: Wohl Yonit , Mashiah Jacob , Drutin Yarden , Vered Shiras , Ben‐Tov Amir
Published: November 2023

Incidence rate and temporal trends in alopecia areata (AA) vary worldwide. As a common disorder with a major impact on life quality, there is a continuous need for comprehensive epidemiological characterization and global updates of the disease burden. We sought to perform an epidemiologic characterization of AA patients and to explore temporal trends across different subgroups using long‐term health data. A retrospective population‐based study was conducted in a large healthcare organization in Israel. Data were analyzed for all patients with AA between 2005 and 2019. A total of 30 805 patients for 29 504 798 person‐years were identified during the study period, representing an overall incidence rate of 104.4 cases per 100 000 person‐years. Young adults and patients of middle socioeconomic status had the highest incidence rate compared to the whole cohort. Incidence rates in females were lower than in males (incidence rate ratio 0.72, 95% confidence interval 0.71–0.74). In a temporal trends analysis, the yearly incidence rate for the whole cohort was stable throughout the study period. Males between the ages of 18 and 30 had a significant increase in incidence during the study years, where the incidence rate increased from 119.54 to 162.36 per 100 000 person‐years. Despite the limitation of lack of analysis by subgroups of disease severity and other personal data, our study clearly indicates that young male adults of middle socioeconomic status emerge as the most at risk associated with AA over a decade and a half. In an effort to delineate risk factors for this gender gap, different stressors are speculated as triggers.
Association between small‐for‐gestational age and poor school performance in 2 500 000 children born 1973–2002
Authors: Gustafsson Alva , Bonnevier Anna , Källén Karin
Published: November 2023

Aim

To examine the association between infant weight for gestational age and school performance when leaving school at 16 years of age.

Methods

Out of 2 525 571 infants born near‐ or at term, between 1 January 1973 and 31 December 2002, identified from the Swedish Medical Birth Register, 65 912 (2.6%) were born small‐for‐gestational age (SGA). Outcomes studied were the risk for the need for education in special school, and the final average grades. Modified Poisson regression analyses and weighted linear regression analyses were performed.

Results

An association between SGA and the need for a special school was found, irrespective of restrictions or adjustments (RR between 2.47 and 2.25). SGA was associated with final grades below the 10th and 25th percentile (RR 1.49 and 1.18, respectively). A linear relationship between maternal height and the RR for education in special school (p = 0.005), suggested that SGA is a stronger risk factor among children of tall than of shorter women.

Conclusion

SGA increased the risk for poor school performance, and for the need for a special school. We found an association between maternal height and school performance in relation to birthweight, suggesting that maternal height should be considered when estimating the impact of SGA on later outcomes.
Electroacupuncture promotes the repair of the damaged spinal cord in mice by mediating neurocan‐perineuronal net
Authors: Hu Rong , He Kelin , Chen Bowen , Chen Yi , Zhang Jieqi , Wu Xingying , Shi Mengting , Wu Lei , Ma Ruijie
Published: November 2023

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the effect of perineuronal net (PNN) and neurocan (NCAN) on spinal inhibitory parvalbumin interneuron (PV‐IN), and the mechanism of electroacupuncture (EA) in promoting spinal cord injury (SCI) repair through neurocan in PNN.

Methods

A mouse model of SCI was established. Sham‐operated mice or SCI model mice were treated with chondroitin sulfate ABC (ChABC) enzyme or control vehicle for 2 weeks (i.e., sham+veh group, sham+ChABC group, SCI+veh group, and SCI+ChABC group, respectively), and then spinal cord tissues were taken from the T10 lesion epicenter for RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq). MSigDB Hallmark and C5 databases for functional analysis, analysis strategies such as differential expression gene analysis (DEG), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA), and protein–protein interaction (PPI). According to the results of RNA‐seq analysis, the expression of NCAN was knocked down or overexpressed by virus intervention, or/and EA intervention. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR), immunofluorescence, western blot, electrophysiological, and behavioral tests were performed.

Results

After the successful establishment of SCI model, the motor dysfunction of lower limbs, and the expression of PNN core glycan protein at the epicenter of SCI were reduced. RNA‐seq and PCR showed that PNN core proteoglycans except NCAN showed the same expression trend in normal and injured spinal cord treated with ChABC. KEGG and GSEA showed that PNN is mainly associated with inhibitory GABA neuronal function in injured spinal cord tissue, and PPI showed that NCAN in PNN can be associated with inhibitory neuronal function through parvalbumin (PV). Calcium imaging showed that local parvalbumin interneuron (PV‐IN) activity decreased after PNN destruction, whether due to ChABC treatment or surgical bruising of the spinal cord. Overexpression of neurocan in injured spinal cord can enhance local PV‐IN activity. PCR and western blot suggested that overexpression or knockdown of neurocan could up‐regulate or down‐regulate the expression of GAD. At the same time, the activity of PV‐IN in the primary motor cortex (M1) and the primary sensory cortex of lower (S1HL) extremity changed synchronously. In addition, overexpression of neurocan improved the electrical activity of the lower limb and promoted functional repair of the paralyzed hind limb. EA intervention reversed the down‐regulation of neurocan, enhanced the expression of PNN in the lesioned area, M1 and S1HL.

Conclusion

Neurocan in PNN can regulate the activity of PV‐IN, and EA can promote functional recovery of mice with SCI by upregulating neurocan expression in PNN.
Against Arguments From Diagnostic Reasoning
Authors: Toorman Jeske
Published: November 2023

Recent work in cognitive psychology and experimental semantics indicates that people do not categorize natural kinds solely by virtue of their purported scientific essence. Two attempts have been made to explain away the data by appealing to the idea that participants in these studies are reasoning diagnostically. I will argue that an appeal to diagnostic reasoning will likely not help to explain away the data.
Using Theory of Change to Support Participatory Visual Mapping in Urban Transformation Projects
Authors: Zohar Hadas , Simeone Luca , Morelli Nicola , Martelloni Laura , Marmo Dario
Published: November 2023

Theory of Change was created as a logic planning model to explore and represent a potential change in a way that reflects a complex and systemic understanding of development. Even though it is a familiar tool in the context of community initiatives and philanthropic projects, Theory of Change is under‐applied in design as a problem‐solving practice and underexplored within design research. Design projects that are looking for more comprehensive ways of negotiating change can greatly benefit from it to inform a deep understanding of the dynamics of change. This paper focuses on how a designerly approach to Theory of Change can support participatory visual mapping, thus creating some enabling conditions towards transformation in cities, namely: facilitating more granular communication, suggesting a multifaceted and systemic perspective, helping to navigate complexity by creating shared mental models among stakeholders, fostering thinking through different temporalities, and boosting creativity. The paper will examine a case of an urban transformation project that involves six European cities under regeneration.
Managing Design for Environmental Sustainability throughout the Design Process
Authors: Delaney Emelia , Liu Wei
Published: November 2023

Sustainability is recognised as a complex issue with it comprising of three themes, namely social, environmental, and economic impact. The role of professional designers is becoming trans‐disciplinary, with employers expecting designers to be equipped with the necessary skills to implement sustainability within their design process. Environmental sustainability has been and has continued to be an important theme within design and design management literature, with a focus on how to effectively implement this throughout the design industry. It is currently unclear how designers are managing environmental sustainability throughout their design process. To investigate this gap further a detailed methodology was employed, including a review of previous academic literature, an investigation into the design processes of sustainability‐design specialists, and a holistic review of the current status of environmental sustainability within the design industry. The study has enabled an evaluation of the current status of environmental sustainability implementation as well as the management methods used by those in industry to aid designers and their process. From data analysis, a framework has been developed to aid designers in the implementation of environmental sustainability during their design process. Future suggestions for research will also be outlined.
DNA metabarcoding of light trap samples vs. morphological species identification
Authors: Strutzenberger Patrick , Gottsberger Brigitte , Bodner Florian , Bartusel Fabian , Jerga Daniel , Fiedler Konrad
Published: November 2023

DNA metabarcoding has developed into a commonly used tool for biodiversity assessment and monitoring. How results from DNA metabarcoding are compared with studies based on ‘classic’, in most cases morphological species identification, is still unclear. Studies investigating species detection against a known baseline are virtually non‐existent.

In this study, we used light trap samples collected in eastern Austria to investigate the concordance between morphological species lists and results obtained from COI metabarcoding using the Illumina MiSeq platform. Two primer combinations of different lengths (313 and 205 bp) were compared to assess the influence of amplicon length.

Species detection rates ranged between 0.38 and 0.69; the shorter amplicon had on average higher species detection rates compared with the longer amplicon. Singleton species were less likely to be detected through metabarcoding.

The major determinant for a species to be detected was its biomass, viz. smaller species had a lower chance to be detected. However, there is also evidence of taxonomic bias on the level of superfamilies. While the influence of biomass is to be expected, the presence of taxonomic bias gives reason for concern and requires further studies. Such a bias can be of significance when metabarcoding is used to determine conservation measures. Ordination analyses of all sampling sites showed that as far as community ecology is concerned, the overall pattern obtained from the full species list was mostly preserved in our metabarcoding results.