bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relative importance of competing marketing strategies on different customer metrics: a meta-analytic review of customer equity drivers
Authors: Vieira Valter Afonso , Rafael Diego Nogueira , Ou Yi-Chun
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This meta-analytic study aims to generalize the impacts of three customer equity drivers (CEDs), including value equity (VE), brand equity (BE) and relationship equity (RE), on different customer metrics (e.g. loyalty, word of mouth [WoM] and satisfaction); examine the relative importance of CEDs on customer metrics; and explore boundary conditions, considering geographic and methodological characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a meta-analytic approach, collected and coded 85 articles published between 2001 and 2022. After some exclusions, the authors used 272 observations (average of individuals’ sample M = 1,015, min = 10, max = 8,924).

Findings

The generalized effects of VE, BE, and RE on the selected customer metrics are positive. However, the importance of each CED differs for WoM and social equity. Between VE and BE, BE correlates more with WoM. RE correlates more with social equity than VE and BE That is, RE is effective in both WoM and social equity. In addition, the impacts of the CEDs on customer loyalty vary across multiple geographic and methodological characteristics. For example, the impacts of VE and RE on loyalty are stronger in more individualistic, more masculine, long-term orientation or more restraint cultures.

Research limitations/implications

While the authors examined VE, BE and RE as the most important marketing strategies, there might be other types of CEDs, such as interactions with others (e.g. employees and customers). Interactions with others at any touchpoints along the customer journey are important experiences (Lemon and Verhoef, 2016). Second, the authors limited the customer metrics to customer loyalty, WoM, customer satisfaction, customer trust and social equity.

Practical implications

The magnitudes of VE, BE and RE differ across the three customer metrics. Compared with VE, BE symbolizes customers’ identity, status and extended self, which motivates WoM. Compared with VE and BE, RE convinces customers of companies’ actions in social equity such as corporate social responsibilities.

Originality/value

The meta-analysis resolves the issue of inconsistent impacts of CEDs across studies. Moreover, including CEDs in a model provides insight into these strategies’ relative importance when considering different marketing objectives. Finally, this study enriches understanding of the boundary conditions on the CEDs–loyalty link.
The current research status of Kansei engineering in the field of emotional clothing design
Authors: Wei Cong , Li Xinrong , Feng Wenqian , Dai Zhao , Yang Qi
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study provides a comprehensive overview of the research landscape of Kansei engineering (KE) within the domain of emotional clothing design. It explores the pivotal technologies, challenges and potential future directions of KE, offering application methodologies and theoretical underpinnings to support emotional clothing design.

Design/methodology/approach

This study briefly introduces KE, outlining its overarching research methodologies and processes. This framework lays the groundwork for advancing research in clothing Kansei. Subsequently, by reviewing literature from both domestic and international sources, this research initially explores the application of KE in the design and evaluation of clothing products as well as the development of intelligent clothing design systems from the vantage point of designers. Second, it investigates the role of KE in the customization of online clothing recommendation systems and the optimization of retail environments, as perceived by consumers. Finally, with the research methodologies of KE as a focal point, this paper discusses the principal challenges and opportunities currently confronting the field of clothing Kansei research.

Findings

At present, studies in the domain of clothing KE have achieved partial progress, but there are still some challenges to be solved in the concept, technical methods and area of application. In the future, multimodal and multisensory user Kansei acquisition, multidimensional product deconstruction, artificial intelligence (AI) enabling KE research and clothing sales environment Kansei design will become new development trends.

Originality/value

This study provides significant directions and concepts in the technology, methods and application types of KE, which is helpful to better apply KE to emotional clothing design.
Co-evolution, organizational capacity building, logistics capabilities and operational agility during health emergencies
Authors: Mutebi Henry , Muhwezi Moses , Byarugaba Pontius , Mayanja Ssekajja S. , Aryatwijuka Wilbroad , Munduru Sharon Brenda
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Globally, health care facilities often fail to respond quickly to health emergencies, resulting in significant deaths. Thus, the study examines the mediating effect of logistics capabilities in the relationship between co-evolution, organization capacity building and operational agility.

Design/methodology/approach

SmartPLS 4.0.8.3, variance-based structural equation models (VB-SEM) were used to test direct and indirect hypotheses across 45 health facilities. The respondents were 140 nurses and doctors. Disproportionate stratified simple random sampling was used based on government and private health facilities in Kampala City, Uganda.

Findings

A significant and positive relationship exists between logistics capability and operational agility. However, co-evolution and organizational capacity are intimately linked to operational agility via logistics capability.

Research limitations/implications

A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted using self-administered questionnaires. The results did not show any variation in the operational agility of health facilities during emergency management; thus, qualitative approaches are needed.

Practical implications

During emergency management, health facilities need to cooperate by sharing information, building capacity to increase their responsiveness and flexibility. This should be done by sharing equipment, tools, drugs and medical supplies, and we hope to encourage joint medical research.

Originality/value

A complex adaptive systems (CAS) framework is used in this study to examine how co-evolution, organizational capacity building and logistical capability relate to the operational agility of healthcare during times of emergency.
Burj Rashid: a tale of two tides – rising waters and changing traditions
Authors: Elsayed Amira Sadik , El Siedy Rehab , Mustafa Islam Kamal
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper delves into the traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) and practices of Burj Rashid, an ancient historical city on Egypt’s northern coast, which stands at the meeting point of the Nile’s western branch and the Mediterranean Sea. Burj Rashid boasts a strategic location and rich natural resources and has a long history of relationships between land, people, river, sea and climate change, serving as a model for residents’ adaptation to their ever-changing surroundings.

Design/methodology/approach

Climate studies have exposed the village’s vulnerability to climate and topographical hazards such as rising temperatures, shifting weather patterns, decreasing precipitation, encroaching seas due to sea level rise, coastal erosion and high soil salinization. These factors pose a high risk of water scarcity, crop failure in the medium term, potential famine in the long term and declining fish populations, threatening fishing communities. To address these challenges, the Net Zero: Heritage for Climate Action project - launched by the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM) and the First Aid and Resilience for Culture in Times of Crisis program, funded by Swedish Postcode - proposes a research and development methodology through a platform that weaves together heritage knowledge and climate science. The Egyptian Heritage Rescue Foundation has implemented a platform in Burj Rashid as an innovative site to study risks, vulnerabilities and capacities.

Findings

The project will explore root causes, identify risk scenarios and establish a stakeholder map to guide the development of mitigation strategies and resilience-building measures.

Originality/value

By harnessing the wisdom of TEK and integrating it with scientific knowledge, the project paves the way for innovative climate change adaptation strategies that ensure the long-term sustainability of Burj Rashid’s unique cultural heritage.
Women digital financial inclusion and economic growth in Nigeria
Authors: Ozili Peterson K.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This article analyses the trend in women digital financial inclusion in Nigeria using some digital financial inclusion indicators obtained from the global Findex database for the year 2014, 2017 and 2021. The study also analyses the relationship between women digital financial inclusion and economic growth.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were analysed using the two-stage least squares (2SLS) and generalised method of moments (GMM) regression estimation methods. The women digital financial inclusion indicators are the percentage of women who (1) own a mobile money account, (2) made a digital payment, (3) received digital payments, (4) made or received a digital payment, (5) own a credit card and (6) own a debit card.

Findings

The trend analysis shows a sustained, although small, improvement in women mobile money account ownership during the period, while the other indicators witnessed a decrease in 2017 and an increase in 2021, except for women credit card ownership which remained at the same level during the period examined. There is a significant positive relationship between women digital financial inclusion and economic growth. Internet usage has a significant positive effect on women digital financial inclusion in Nigeria.

Practical implications

Greater digital financial inclusion for women can accelerate economic growth in Nigeria. Policymakers should encourage investment in fintech and broaden access to the Internet to increase women digital financial inclusion and economic growth in Nigeria. Policymakers and practitioners in Nigeria should also work collaboratively to increase digital financial inclusion for women due to its potential to increase economic growth in Nigeria.

Originality/value

Existing studies did not analyse the trends in women digital financial inclusion. Existing studies did not empirically analyse the impact of women digital financial inclusion on economic growth in Nigeria. The present study fills this gap in the literature.
Exploration of the model of deepen industry–education integration in the digital economy era
Authors: Yuan Ping , Yang Xiangpeng
Published: October 2024

Purpose

While the industry–education integration has achieved significant results, it also faces many prominent problems. The current problems include some projects prioritizing research and development over education, insufficient breadth and depth of cooperation and a lack of quality monitoring and evaluation mechanisms. Breaking through these problems to deepen industry–education integration is an important issue that urgently needs to be studied.

Design/methodology/approach

Taking the second batch of 10,283 industry–education integration projects of the Ministry of Education in 2019 as a case study, the problems existing in the Chinese industry–education integration projects are analyzed. We should make full use of the advantages and resources in the era of digital economy to seek the right path to deepen the integration of industry–education.

Findings

The study finds that governments can leverage the advantages and opportunities of the digital economy to deepen the reform of industry–education integration.

Originality/value

The policy suggestion is to deepen the mechanism of multi-party linkage and collaborative education, actively build an industry–education integration service platform and promote the two-way docking of industry education supply and demand.
Use of gamification and hyper-personalization in the coupon industry: does it impact the consumer’s intention to redeem?
Authors: Nayal Preeti , Sharma Arun , Pandey Neeraj , Shankar Amit
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Drawing on self-determination theory (SDT), this study analyzes the impact of gamified and personalized coupons on the intention to redeem digital coupons in the presence of consumer engagement and technology anxiety.

Design/methodology/approach

A between-subjects factorial experimental design was used to examine the influence of three personalizations (no personalization, personalization and hyper-personalization) and two gamification levels (game and no game) on digital coupon redemption intention and consumer engagement.

Findings

The results found a significant interaction between the types of personalization and gamification, with personalized coupons having a greater impact on the intention to redeem digital coupons than hyper-personalized and non-personalized coupons. Consumer engagement was found to mediate the relationship between types of coupons and intention to redeem digital coupons. However, technology anxiety was not found to be significant as a moderator.

Originality/value

This study makes an important contribution in its application of SDT to examine the interaction impact of types of coupons and gamification conditions in the context of digital coupon redemption. This unique approach underscores the novelty of the research and its potential to provide valuable insights for the coupon industry.
Organizational learning programs to fulfilling basic needs at work: significance for work attractiveness and turnover in strained sectors
Authors: Dellve Lotta , Jonsson Robin , Arman Rebecka , Gillberg Nanna , Wikström Ewa
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore whether participation in employer-provided skills and learning programs can strengthen older workers’ abilities to carry out their work in a meaningful way so that it increases work attractiveness and a willingness to remain in the current job position.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was distributed to assistance nurses, nurses and teachers, aged 55 years and older in a Swedish City (n = 1,342), analyzed descriptively and with structural equation modeling.

Findings

This paper showed positive relationships between active participation in organizational learning programs (OLPs) and autonomy, relatedness, competence and also attractive work. Associations are observed between participation in learning programs, e.g. mentorship, through the strengthened basic needs at work with work attractiveness and lower intention to leave, but not prolonged retirement preference.

Research limitations/implications

The cross-sectional quantitative design restricts drawing causal conclusions about associations.

Practical implications

OLPs at work may be seen as potential measures to strengthen work conditions, fulfilling basic psychological needs at work and increase work attractiveness in strained welfare sectors.

Social implications

There are some welfare sectors that – more than others – are strained by challenges to maintain, sustain and develop quality, knowledge and staff due to poor economic and social resources with regard to sustainability, e.g. in the educational and caring sectors. Strengthening organizational measures is needed to support sustainable development.

Originality/value

This study applies advanced statistical methods, in a large empirical sample, and shows the importance of skills and learning programs for job attractiveness among older workers in female-dominated, strained welfare sectors.
Disparities in infectious disease‐related health care utilization between Medicaid‐enrolled American Indians and non‐Hispanic Whites—Lessons from the first 16 months of coronavirus disease 2019 and a decade of flu seasons
Authors: Wang Scarlett Sijia , Akee Randall , Simeonova Emilia , Glied Sherry
Published: October 2024

Objective

To understand why American Indian and Alaskan Native (AIAN) populations have had exceptionally high COVID‐19 mortality, we compare patterns of healthcare utilization and outcomes for two serious infectious respiratory diseases—Influenza‐like‐illness (ILI) and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19)—between American Indian and Alaskan Native (AIAN) populations (as identified in Medicaid data) and non‐Hispanic Whites over the 2009–2021 period.

Study Setting and Design

We select all people under the age of 65 years identified as non‐Hispanic White or AIAN in the New York State Medicaid claims data between 2009 and 2021. We analyze data across 10 ILI cohorts (between September 2009 and August 2020) and 4 COVID‐19 cohorts (March–June 2020, July–September 2020, October–December 2020, and January–June 2021). We examine mortality and utilization rates using logistic regressions, adjusting for demographic characteristics, prior chronic conditions, and geographic location (including residence near a reservation). We stratify the analysis by rural vs. nonrural counties.

Data Sources and Analytic Sample

We use the New York State Medicaid claims data for the analysis.

Principal Findings

We find that even among Medicaid beneficiaries, who are similar in socioeconomic status and identical in health insurance coverage, AIAN populations have much lower rates of use of outpatient services and much higher rates of acute (inpatient and emergency room) service utilization for both ILI and COVID‐19 than non‐Hispanic Whites. Prior to COVID‐19, demographic and health status‐adjusted all‐cause mortality rates, including from ILI, were lower among American Indians than among non‐Hispanic Whites on New York State Medicaid, but this pattern reversed during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Both findings are driven by nonrural counties. We did not observe significant differences in all‐cause mortality and acute service utilization comparing AIAN to non‐Hispanic Whites in rural areas.

Conclusion

The utilization and mortality disparities we identify within the Medicaid population highlight the need to move beyond insurance in addressing poor health outcomes in the American Indian population.
The application of GIS technology in building a multivariate taphonomic profile for improving PMI estimations in Greece
Authors: Karydi Christina , Montesantos Ioannis , Moraitis Konstantinos
Published: October 2024

Environmental conditions highly affect decomposition rates and therefore a forensic practitioner should consider context‐specific information when estimating the post mortem interval (PMI). Traditional methods of collecting environmental data, however, are time‐consuming and often impractical for large‐scale studies or routine forensic investigations. This study developed an automated computer method by employing the technology of geographic information systems (GIS) and Python programming language to provide contextual information for bodies found outdoors in Greece. The generated coding script underwent testing on 95 bodies in various stages of decomposition, which were examined between the years 1999 and 2022 at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens and the Forensic Medical Service of Thessaloniki. Using ArcGIS Pro software and publicly available online data, a multilayer map was developed. Individual layers included high‐resolution aerial images and data on the European Nature Information System ecosystem type, the Köppen–Geiger climatic type, the population density, the elevation, and the slope. Additionally, 99 national weather stations and their corresponding meteorological data were integrated. By leveraging the geographical coordinates of the recovery site of each case and information about the decedent's disappearance and recovery dates, this script automatically generates details from each of the above layers. Additionally, it calculates the accumulated degree days (ADD) and accumulated humidity days (AHD) values by extracting data from the nearest weather station. The GIS‐based approach enables rapid, objective, and reproducible taphonomic profile construction, which can greatly improve the reliability of PMI estimations. By utilizing this method, forensic practitioners can accurately evaluate environmental effects on decomposition, thus standardizing taphonomic profiling globally.
Genomic and biogeographic characterisation of the novel prasinovirus Mantoniella tinhauana virus 1
Authors: Rey Redondo Elvira , Leung Shara Ka Kiu , Yung Charmaine Cheuk Man
Published: October 2024

Mamiellophyceae are a ubiquitous class of unicellular green algae in the global ocean. Their ecological importance is highlighted in studies focused on the prominent genera Micromonas, Ostreococcus, and Bathycoccus. Mamiellophyceae are susceptible to prasinoviruses, double‐stranded DNA viruses belonging to the nucleocytoplasmic large DNA virus group. Our study represents the first isolation of a prasinovirus in the South China Sea and the only one to infect the globally distributed genus Mantoniella. We conducted a comparative analysis with previously identified viral relatives, encompassing morphological characteristics, host specificity, marker‐based phylogenetic placement, and whole‐genome sequence comparisons. Although it shares morphological and genetic similarities with established prasinoviruses, this novel virus showed distinct genetic traits, confining its infection to the species Mantoniella tinhauana. We also explored the global biogeography of this prasinovirus and its host by mapping metagenomic data and analysing their relationship with various environmental parameters. Our results demonstrate a pronounced link between the virus and its host, both found predominantly in higher latitudes in the surface ocean. By gaining an increased understanding of the relationships between viruses, hosts, and environments, researchers can better make predictions and potentially implement measures to mitigate the consequences of climate change on oceanic processes.
An automated commercial open access assay for detection of Mycoplasma genitalium macrolide resistance
Authors: Lindroth Ylva , Hansson Lucia , Forslund Ola
Published: October 2024

Azithromycin, a macrolide antibioticum, is the first‐line treatment for Mycoplasma genitalium (MG), but resistant MG is an increasing problem. Macrolide resistance‐mediated mutations (MRM) has been linked to point mutations in region V of the MG 23S rRNA gene. We have evaluated an open access analyzer (Panther Fusion, Hologic Inc) for detectability of MRM (mutations A2071G and A2072G) and MG wild type (WT) in clinical samples. Also, the agreement of the Panther Fusion assay results with a corresponding established In‐house MRM‐WT PCR (ABI 7500) was calculated. Left over material from 55 clinical samples positive for MG by the Aptima test (Hologic) based on transcription‐mediated amplification (TMA), collected from January to February 2023 in Region Skåne, Sweden, was analyzed. Specific amplification curves were generated for positive controls of MG mutations (A2071G and A2072G) and WT by the Panther Fusion assay. The limit of detection (LOD) was 5.3 copies/mL for WT, 8.1 copies/mL for mutation A2071G, and 81 copies/mL for mutation A2072G. The overall concordance was 91% between the Panther Fusion and the In‐house PCR (Kappa 0.621, 95% CI; 0.327–0.914) for detection of WT or MRM in MG‐positive clinical samples. The Panther Fusion detected MRM in 20% (11/55) and WT in 62% (34/55) of the samples. The corresponding In‐house PCR results were 25% (14/55) and 65% (36/55). In summary, the Panther Fusion assay demonstrated detection of low copy number of MRM and WT of MG. Among clinical samples substantial agreement between the Panther Fusion and In‐house PCR results was observed. Integrating MG‐analysis (TMA) and MRM‐WT assay on the Panther platform could make MRM testing more readily available. However, the Panther Fusion had a lower success rate (82% vs 90%) for macrolide susceptibility testing, hence testing with a complementary method should be considered for samples where neither WT nor MRM MG are detectable.
Unveiling the hub genes associated with ochratoxin A‐induced hepatotoxicity in broiler chickens
Authors: Li Xiaofeng , Wang Zhongyuan , Wang Shujuan , Yang Bing
Published: October 2024

Ochratoxin A (OTA) widely exists in raw food and feed materials and can induce liver damage and toxicity. However, the mechanisms of OTA‐induced hepatotoxicity were largely unknown. Thus, our study aimed to uncover the vital genes relevant to OTA‐induced hepatotoxicity in broiler chickens. Gene expression data of chicken embryo primary hepatocytes (CEPHs) in OTA‐treated and control groups were obtained from the GEO database. Totally 1407 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were selected, of which 850 and 557 genes were up‐ and downregulated in OTA‐treated CEPHs. Gene ontology (GO) enrichment revealed that the DEGs were in connection with various biological processes, such as signal transduction, extracellular matrix organization, axon guidance, cell division, cholesterol homeostasis, proteolysis, microtubule cytoskeleton organization, and chromosome segregation. Pathway enrichment showed that the DEGs were related to metabolic pathways, ferroptosis, calcium, FoxO, Wnt, cell cycle, apoptosis, calcium, and cell adhesion molecules signaling pathways. Furthermore, the hub genes, including CDK1, DLGAP5, KIF2C, VCL, ITGB3, and ZYX, were identified as hub genes potentially contributing to OTA‐induced hepatotoxicity. Taken together, this study provides valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying OTA‐induced hepatotoxicity in broiler chickens.
N‐terminal targeting sequences and coding sequences act in concert to determine the localization and trafficking pathway of apicoplast proteins in Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: Anjum Sofia , Prasad Aparna , Mastud Pragati , Mishra Geetanjali , Patankar Swati
Published: October 2024

Backgound Information

Toxoplasma gondii has a relict plastid, the apicoplast, to which nuclear‐encoded proteins are targeted after synthesis in the cytosol. Proteins exclusively found in the apicoplast use a Golgi‐independent route for trafficking, while dually targeted proteins found in both the apicoplast and the mitochondrion use a Golgi‐dependent route. For apicoplast targeting, N‐terminal signal sequences have been shown to direct the localization of different reporters. In this study, we use chimeric proteins to dissect out the roles of N‐terminal sequences and coding sequences in apicoplast localization and the choice of the trafficking route.

Results

We show that when the N‐termini of a dually targeted protein, TgTPx1/2, or of an apicoplast protein, TgACP, are fused with the reporter protein, enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) or endogenous proteins, TgSOD2, TgSOD3, TgACP, or TgTPx1/2, the chimeric proteins exhibit flexibility in apicoplast targeting depending on the coding sequences. Further, the chimeras that are localized to the apicoplast use different trafficking pathways depending on the combination of the N‐terminal signals and the coding sequences.

Conclusion and Significance

This report shows, for the first time, that in addition to the N‐terminal signal sequences, targeting and trafficking signals also reside within the coding sequences of apicoplast proteins.
Trichophyton erinacei‐Infektion beim Menschen: Fallbericht und Literaturübersicht
Authors: Cammarata Edoardo , Cristo Nunzia Di , Airoldi Chiara , Veronese Federica , Esposto Elia , Giacomazzi Claudio , Coppo Paola , Zavattaro Elisa , Savoia Paola
Published: October 2024

Hintergrund

Trichophyton (T.) erinacei ist ein seltener, aber zunehmender zoonotischer Dermatophyt, der nur vereinzelt als Krankheitserreger beim Menschen isoliert wird, und nur wenige Fälle sind in der Literatur ausführlich beschrieben worden.

Patienten und Methoden

Wir führten eine systematische Suche nach passenden Artikeln über demografische und klinische Merkmale sowie über Behandlungsansätze bei humanen T. erinacei‐Infektionen.

Ergebnisse

In der internationalen Literatur wurde zwischen dem Beginn der Suche und November 2023 über 168 Patienten mit T. erinacei berichtet, wovon nur 56 Fälle (33,3%) vollständig sind. Das mittlere Alter bei der Diagnose betrug 26 Jahre, das Verhältnis zwischen Frauen und Männern lag bei etwa 2 zu 1. Die Hauptquelle der Erkrankung war der Igel. Die Infektion präsentierte sich mit einer Kombination aus Erythemen, schuppenden Plaques, Pusteln, Papeln, Bläschen, Ödemen und Erosionen; die häufigsten Lokalisationen waren die Hände und der Kopf. Die am häufigsten durchgeführte Untersuchung war die Pilzkultur, allerdings haben die Gensequenzierung und die Massenspektrometrie sowohl die Geschwindigkeit als auch die Präzision im jüngsten Diagnoseverlauf verbessert. Topisches Clotrimazol und systemisches Terbinafin waren die am öftesten gewählten Behandlungen.

Schlussfolgerungen

Trichophyton erinacei sollte bei Patienten mit erythematösen, schuppigen Flecken und kürzlich erfolgtem Kontakt mit Igeln in Betracht gezogen werden. Terbinafin sollte als wirksame Erstlinienbehandlung angesehen werden, Griseofulvin und Azole könnten als valide Alternativen gelten.
Häufigkeit und diagnostische Befunde von Typ‐I‐ und Typ‐IV‐Reaktionen gegen Beta‐Laktam‐Antibiotika – Bedeutung des Zeitintervalls zwischen klinischer Reaktion und Hauttestung
Authors: Farmer Kimberley , Oestmann Elsbeth , Worm Margitta
Published: October 2024

Hintergrund

Die Prävalenz von Allergien gegen Beta‐Laktam‐Antibiotika wird aufgrund anamnestischer Daten deutlich überschätzt – mit bedeutenden medizinischen und wirtschaftlichen Folgen. Ziel der Arbeit war, die Häufigkeit von Sofort‐ und Spättypreaktionen gegenüber Beta‐Laktam‐Antibiotika zu bestimmen, um Diagnostik und Therapie zu optimieren. Ein Schwerpunkt lag auf dem Zeitintervall zwischen Reaktion und Testung.

Patienten und Methodik

Anamnestische und diagnostische Daten von Patienten mit Verdacht auf Allergie gegen Beta‐Laktam‐Antibiotika, die zwischen 2020 und 2022 in unserer Abteilung untersucht wurden, wurden ausgewertet.

Ergebnisse

27/116 (23%) Patienten reagierten in den Hauttestungen. Typ‐I‐Sensibilisierungen wurden bei 4/35 Patienten (11%) nachgewiesen, Typ‐IV‐Sensibilisierungen bei 23/83 (28%). Bei negativer In‐vitro‐Diagnostik und Hauttestung erfolgten stationäre Provokationstestungen bei 41/89 (46%). Typ‐I‐Allergien wurden bei zwei der 13 provozierten Patienten (15%) mit Soforttypreaktion, Typ‐IV‐Allergien bei drei von 29 (10%) mit Spättypreaktion bestätigt. Die Ergebnisse hingen deutlich mit dem Zeitintervall nach Reaktion zusammen. Bei einem Zeitintervall unter einem Jahr reagierten 19% (22/116), hingegen nur 4% (5/116) bei einem Zeitintervall über einem Jahr (bei Typ‐I‐Reaktion 9% vs. 3%; bei Typ‐IV‐Reaktion 23% vs. 5%.)

Schlussfolgerungen

Die Bedeutung des Zeitintervalls zwischen klinischem Ereignis und allergologischer Testung unterstützt die Leitlinienempfehlung zur Hauttestung innerhalb eines Jahres. Leitlinienempfehlungen zum diagnostischen Vorgehen bei länger zurückliegenden unklaren Reaktionen sind wünschenswert, um Allergien gegen Beta‐Laktam‐Antibiotika auszuschließen.
Pathogenetische Bedeutung von Antikörpern gegen Desmoglein 3 bei Patienten mit oralem Lichen planus
Authors: Didona Dario , Schmidt Morna F. , Meier Katharina , Mesas‐Fernandez Alberto , Maglie Roberto , Antiga Emiliano , Klemp Marisa , Yazdi Amir S. , Ghoreschi Kamran , Hertl Michael , Möbs Christian , Solimani Farzan
Published: October 2024

Hintergrund und Ziele

Der orale Lichen planus (OLP) ist eine T‐Zell‐gesteuerte Erkrankung, welche die Lebensqualität der Betroffenen erheblich beeinträchtigt. Es konnte gezeigt werden, dass sowohl zelluläre als auch humorale gegen Desmoglein (Dsg) 1 und 3 gerichtete Mechanismen an der Pathogenese des OLP beteiligt sein könnten. Hier sollen die Häufigkeit des Auftretens und die pathologische Bedeutung von Anti‐Dsg‐Antikörpern anhand einer großen Kohorte von OLP‐Patienten analysiert werden.

Material und Methodik

Mittels eines ELISA (enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay) wurden Seren von OLP‐Patienten aus drei tertiären Referenzzentren auf Anti‐Dsg‐Antikörper untersucht. OLP‐Seren, die Anti‐Dsg‐Antikörper aufwiesen, wurden mittels Western Blot und Dispase‐basiertem Keratinozyten‐Dissoziations‐Assay (DDA) analysiert, um eine mögliche Bindungsstelle an der Dsg‐Ektodomäne zu identifizieren und ihre Pathogenität zu bewerten.

Ergebnisse

Es wurden Seren von 151 Patienten mit OLP untersucht, wobei vier Patienten (2,6%) mit erosivem Subtyp Antikörper gegen Dsg1 und/oder Dsg3 aufwiesen. Die Western‐Blot‐Analyse mit rekombinanten Dsg3‐Ektodomänen ergab hauptsächlich die Erkennung der Ektodomäne 5. Keines der vier Patientenseren führte im DDA mit spontan immortalisierten menschlichen Keratinozyten zur Akantholyse.

Schlussfolgerungen

Die Aktivierung der humoralen Immunität tritt vor allem bei Patienten mit erosivem OLP auf, wahrscheinlich aufgrund eines epitope spreadings. Da die OLP‐Serumantikörper in vitro keinen Effekt auf die interzelluläre Adhäsion haben, ist davon auszugehen, dass sie nicht ursächlich für die Krankheit sind, sondern eher eine Nebenerscheinung darstellen.
S3‐Leitlinie: Diagnostik und Therapie der epidermalen Nekrolyse (Stevens‐Johnson‐Syndrom und toxisch epidermale Nekrolyse) – Teil 1: Diagnostik, initiales Management und immunmodulierende Systemtherapie
Authors: Heuer Ruben , Paulmann Maren , Annecke Thorsten , Behr Björn , Boch Katharina , Boos Anja M. , Brockow Knut , French Lars E. , Gille Jochen , Gundlach Verena , Hartmann Bernd , Höger Peter , Hofmann Silke C. , Klein Tobias , Lehnhardt Marcus , Liß Yvonne , Maier Philip , Mandel Philipp , Marathovouniotis Nicos , Marlok Finnja , Mittelviefhaus Hans , Pleyer Uwe , Pradeau Marie , Rall Katharina , Rieg Siegbert , Rittner Heike , Sander Frank , Schnitzler Stefan , Schut Christina , Stolle Annette , Vorobyev Artem , Wedi Bettina , Weiss Johannes , Zepp Maximilian , Ziemer Mirjana , Mockenhaupt Maja , Nast Alexander
Published: October 2024

Das Stevens‐Johnson‐Syndrom und die toxisch epidermale Nekrolyse (SJS/TEN) sind seltene, in erster Linie arzneimittelinduzierte, akut lebensbedrohliche Erkrankungen der Haut und Schleimhäute. Sie werden heute als Varianten einer Krankheitsentität mit unterschiedlichem Schweregrad betrachtet, die als epidermale Nekrolyse (EN) bezeichnet wird. Die epidermale Nekrolyse geht mit hoher Morbidität und Letalität sowie großer Krankheitslast für die Betroffenen einher. Die Leitlinie „Diagnostik und Therapie der epidermalen Nekrolyse (Stevens‐Johnson‐Syndrom und toxisch epidermale Nekrolyse)“ wurde unter systematischer Berücksichtigung bestehender wissenschaftlicher Literatur und im formalen Konsensusverfahren nach dem Regelwerk der AWMF entwickelt, um klinische Entscheidungsfindungen evidenzbasiert zu unterstützen. Die interdisziplinäre Leitlinienkommission bestand aus Vertretern verschiedener Fachgesellschaften sowie aus Patientenvertretern. Die Leitlinie richtet sich an Ärzte der Fachgebiete Dermatologie, Ophthalmologie, plastische Chirurgie, Intensivmedizin sowie Kinder‐ und Jugendmedizin in Klinik und Praxis sowie an andere medizinische Fachgebiete, die an der Diagnostik und Behandlung von EN beteiligt sind. Zusätzlich richtet sich die Leitlinie an Patienten, deren Angehörige, Kostenträger und politische Entscheidungsträger. Dieser erste Teil behandelt die Themen Diagnostik, initiales Management sowie immunmodulierende Systemtherapie.
Real‐World Evidence on Prognostic Value of MRD in Multiple Myeloma Using Flow Cytometry
Authors: Muronova Ludmila , Soucek Ondrej , Zihala David , Sevcikova Tereza , Popkova Tereza , Plonkova Hana , Venglar Ondrej , Pour Ludek , Stork Martin , Rihova Lucie , Bezdekova Renata , Minarik Jiri , Látal Vojtech , Novak Martin , Jungova Alexandra , Dekojova Tereza , Straub Jan , Spacek Martin , Rezacova Vladimira , Maisnar Vladimir , Radocha Jakub , Hajek Roman , Jelinek Tomas
Published: October 2024

Minimal residual disease (MRD) is one of the most important prognostic factors in multiple myeloma (MM) and a valid surrogate for progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Recently, MRD negativity was approved as an early clinical endpoint for accelerated drug approval in MM. Nevertheless, there is limited evidence of MRD utility in real‐world setting. In this retrospective multicenter study, we report outcomes of 331 newly diagnosed MM patients with MRD evaluation at Day+100 after autologous stem cell transplantation using flow cytometry with a median limit of detection of 0.001%. MRD negativity was reached in 47% of patients and was associated with significantly prolonged median PFS (49.2 months vs. 18.4 months; hazard ratios (HR) = 0.37; p < 0.001) and OS (not reached vs. 74.9 months; HR = 0.50; p = 0.007). Achieving MRD negativity was associated with PFS improvements regardless of age, International Staging System (ISS) stage, lactate dedydrogenase (LDH) level, or cytogenetic risk. Importantly, MRD positive patients benefited from lenalidomide maintenance versus no maintenance (18‐months PFS: 81% vs. 46%; HR = 0.24; p = 0.002) while in MRD negative patients such benefit was not observed (p = 0.747). The outcomes of our real‐world study recapitulate results from clinical trials including meta‐analyses and support the idea that MRD positive patients profit more from lenalidomide maintenance than MRD negative ones.
Corrosion resistance of insulating refractories for the synthesis of lithium‐ion battery LiCoO2 cathode materials
Authors: Yang Biao , Yin Bo , Chen Han , Zheng Yifeng
Published: October 2024

LiCoO2 has become the most widely used cathode material in lithium‐ion batteries because of its high capacity and excellent stability. The high‐temperature solid‐state method is commonly used for the preparation of LiCoO2. However, this method will produce highly penetrating Li2O, which causes spall or fracture of the insulating refractory materials in the kiln. In this study, the corrosion resistance of bubble alumina, mullite, and calcium hexaaluminate (CA6) insulating refractories to LiCoO2 has been thoroughly investigated. Combining the laboratory‐scale interfacial reaction experiments with post‐experimental life cycle analysis of industrial insulating refractories, the interaction between the insulating refractory materials and LiCoO2 after calcination at 900°C for 5 h and the corrosion behavior of LiCoO2 on different insulating refractory materials following heat treatment at 900°C for 5 h every time and repeated seven times are investigated. The corrosion mechanisms are concluded by analyzing the physicochemical composition and macro‐ and micromorphology of the three insulating refractory materials before and after corrosion. The results can provide a basis for the use of insulating refractories in the development of lithium batteries.
Lightweight porous Al2O3‐based ceramics with highly controllable performance via binder jetting
Authors: Liu Jingfei , Yang Li , Yang Zhiyuan , Jiang Wenming , Li Yuanbing , Fan Zitian
Published: October 2024

This study introduces a feasible approach for preparing Al2O3‐based ceramics with highly controllable performance via binder jetting. The Al2O3‐based ceramics were prepared using Al2O3 and H3BO3 as raw materials. The results showed that the samples prepared with 0.24 mol H3BO3 exhibited high apparent porosity (64%–66.67%), well‐bending strength (3.46–8.53 MPa), and low thermal conductivity (0.113–0.329 W·m−1·k−1 at 200–800°C). It was observed by an electron microscope that the increase of boric acid content led to the in‐situ formation of more aluminum borate grains in the sample. Meanwhile, the remaining Al2O3 reacts with silicon oxide in the impregnation solution to form mullite whiskers. The whiskers ensured that the sample had superior mechanical properties and lower thermal conductivities. Based on the above properties, the possibility of Al2O3‐based ceramics application in the aerospace field can be speculated.
Mediation of genetic susceptibility to obesity through eating behaviours in children
Authors: Goulet Danick , Boivin Michel , Gravel Christopher A. , Little Julian , Potter Beth K. , Dubois Lise
Published: October 2024

Background/Objectives

Few studies have examined the putative mediating role of eating behaviours linking genetic susceptibility and body weight. The goal of this study was to investigate the extent to which two polygenic scores (PGSs) for body mass index (BMI), based on child and adult data, predicted BMI through over‐eating and fussy eating across childhood.

Subjects/Methods

The study sample involved 692 participants from a birth cohort study. Height and weight were measured on six occasions between ages 6 and 13 years. Over‐eating and fussy eating behaviours were assessed five times between ages 2 and 6 years. Longitudinal growth curve mediation analysis was used to estimate the contributions of the PGSs to BMI z‐scores mediated by over‐eating and fussy eating.

Results

Both PGSs predicted BMI z‐scores (PGSchild: β = 0.26, 95% CI: 0.19–0.33; PGSadult: β = 0.34, 95% CI: 0.27–0.41). Over‐eating significantly mediated these associations, but this mediation decreased over time from 6 years (PGSchild: 18.0%, 95% CI: 3.1–32.9, p‐value = 0.018; PGSadult: 14.2%, 95% CI: 2.8–25.5, p‐value = 0.014) to 13 years (PGSchild: 11.4%, 95% CI: −0.4‐23.1, p‐value = 0.057; PGSadult: 6.2%, 95% CI: 0.4–12.0, p‐value = 0.037). Fussy eating did not show any mediation.

Conclusions

Our results support the view that appetite is key to translating genetic susceptibility into changes in body weight.
Media Mergers in Nested Markets
Authors: Martimort David , Sand‐Zantman Wilfried
Published: October 2024

We analyze the effect of media mergers in a model that stresses, on the one hand, the fact that media are two‐sided platforms willing to attract advertisers and viewers and, on the other hand, that strong competitors have emerged to challenge traditional media on both sides. We show that a merger has two conflicting effects on traditional media's incentives to invest in quality programs and to exploit their market power. When competition is primarily between traditional media, a Business‐Stealing Effect dominates, and the merger is detrimental to advertisers and viewers. When the competition is mainly between the traditional media and their new competitors, an Ecosystem Effect dominates, and the merger benefits advertisers and viewers. We extend this setting to discuss the role of financial constraints that might limit investments in the quality of programs and show that the same effects are at play.
Relevance of combined influence of nutritional and inflammatory status on non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease and advanced fibrosis: A mediation analysis of lipid biomarkers
Authors: Pan Lei , Wang Lixuan , Ma Huijuan , Ding Fan
Published: October 2024

Background and Aim

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between advanced lung cancer inflammation index (ALI) and non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and advanced liver fibrosis (AF).

Methods

A total of 5642 individuals from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 2017 and 2020 were examined. Limited cubic spline regression model, and weighted logistic regression were employed to determine if ALI levels were related to the prevalence of NAFLD and AF. Additionally, a mediating analysis was conducted to investigate the role of lipid biomarkers, such as total cholesterol (TC) and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), in the effects of ALI on the prevalence of NAFLD and AF.

Results

After adjusting for potential confounders, a significant positive association was found between ALI with NAFLD and AF prevalence. Compared with those in ALI Tertile 1, participants in Tertile 3 had higher odds of NAFLD prevalence (odds ratio [OR]: 3.16; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.52–3.97) and AF (OR: 3.17; 95% CI: 2.30–4.36). Participants in both Tertile 2 and Tertile 3 had lower odds of developing AF (P for trend = 0.005). Moreover, we discovered a nonlinear association between ALI and NAFLD. An inflection point of 74.25 for NAFLD was identified through a two‐segment linear regression model. Moreover, TC and HDL‐C levels mediated the association between ALI and NAFLD by 10.2% and 4.2%, respectively (both P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that higher ALI levels are positively associated with an increased prevalence of NAFLD and AF, partly mediated by lipid biomarkers.
Physician‐reported barriers and facilitators to thyroid hormone deprescribing in older adults
Authors: Moretti Brandon , Livecchi Rachel , Taylor Stephanie R. , Pitt Susan C. , Gay Brittany L. , Haymart Megan R. , Bhan Arti , Perkins Jennifer , Papaleontiou Maria
Published: October 2024

Background

Thyroid hormone is one of the most commonly prescribed medications in the United States. Misuse of and overtreatment with thyroid hormone is common in older adults and can lead to cardiovascular and skeletal adverse events. Even though deprescribing can reduce inappropriate care, no studies have yet explored specific barriers and facilitators to guide thyroid hormone deprescribing in older adults (defined as discontinuation of thyroid hormone when initiated without an appropriate indication or dose reduction in those overtreated).

Methods

We conducted semi‐structured interviews with 19 endocrinologists, geriatricians, and primary care physicians who prescribe thyroid hormone. Interviews were completed between July 2020 and December 2021 via two‐way video conferencing. We used both an inductive and deductive content analysis guided by the Theoretical Domains Framework to evaluate transcribed and coded participant responses. Thematic analysis characterized themes related to barriers and facilitators to thyroid hormone deprescribing practices in older adults.

Results

The most commonly reported barriers to thyroid hormone deprescribing were related to patient‐level factors, followed by physician‐ and system‐level factors. Patient factors included patients' perceived need for thyroid hormone use and patient anxiety/concerns about potential side effects related to thyroid hormone dose reduction, patient lack of knowledge, and misinformation regarding deprescribing. Physician‐ and system‐level barriers included clinic visit time constraints, physician inertia, physician lack of knowledge about deprescribing, perceived lack of sufficient patient follow‐up, and electronic health record limitations. The most prominent physician‐reported facilitators to thyroid hormone deprescribing were effective physician‐to‐patient communication, and positive physician–patient relationship, including patients' trust in their treating physician.

Conclusion

Barriers and facilitators to thyroid hormone deprescribing in older adults were reported at multiple levels including patient‐, physician‐, and system‐level factors. Interventions to improve thyroid hormone deprescribing in older adults should aim to improve patient education and expectations, increase multidisciplinary physician awareness, and overcome physician inertia.