bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of virtual stores' opaque exterior on store perceptions and purchase intentions
Authors: Han Haejoo , Park Sujin , Hyun Kyung Hoon
Published: March 2022

Purpose

A series of research has focused on how virtual reality (VR) technology itself influences consumers' perceptions and attitudes. However, little is known about consumers' unique perceptions and behaviours that can be generated by the specific factors of the virtual stores that they visit. Therefore, the authors examine how the specific aspects of the virtual stores that consumers see on screens – namely, the opacity of virtual stores' exterior design can impact consumer perceptions and behaviours.

Design/methodology/approach

Across three studies, the authors employed 3D modelling software (Rhino 6 and Unity) and 3D architectural visualisation software (Twinmotion) to create 360° VR videos for the manipulation of the virtual store exterior design. The authors performed ANOVA and regression analyses with three studies, a total of 858 responses.

Findings

Results showed that virtual stores' opaque exterior design can promote product preferences, and this link is serially mediated by store prestige perceptions and product quality perceptions. In addition, this effect is particularly prominent among those with higher involvement in design elements.

Originality/value

By suggesting important design variables to virtual stores, it advances the emerging literature on VR. Furthermore, to our knowledge, this research is the first to highlight the importance of exterior opacity of a virtual store, and it deepens our understanding of how the opaque exterior of virtual stores influences store perceptions and consumer behaviours.
Fostering consumer engagement with marketer-generated content: the role of content-generating devices and content features
Authors: Yang Qiang , Li Hongxiu , Lin Yanqing , Jiang Yushi , Huo Jiale
Published: March 2022

Purpose

This research explores the impacts of content-generating devices (mobile phones versus personal computers) and content features (social content and achievement content) on consumer engagement with marketer-generated content (MGC) on social media. It also examines these factors' interaction effects on consumer engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

The study analyzed MGC that 210 companies had posted to Sina Weibo over three years, testing the study’s proposed model with negative binomial regression analysis.

Findings

The study's results show that MGC generated via mobile phones attracts more consumer engagement than MGC generated via personal computers. MGC with more social features attracts more consumer engagement, whereas MGC with more achievement features reduces consumer engagement. The authors also found that MGC with more social features generated via mobile phones and MGC with more achievement features generated via personal computers lead to more consumer engagement due to the congruency of the construal level of psychological distance.

Originality/value

This research enriches the literature by exploring the effects of content-generating devices and content features on consumer engagement in the MGC context, which extends the research on consumer engagement with social media from the context of user-generated content to the MGC.
Refining mobile location-based service adoption: the lens of pull effect- and push effect-related motivations
Authors: Le Xuan Cu
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Mobile location-based service (m-LBS) seems like a new class of personalized service due to location positioning technologies. This work aims to investigate consumer readiness (RED) toward m-LBS based on integrating pull effect- and push effect-related factors into the technology acceptance model (TAM).

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey collected data from 423 participants, and the research framework was analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM).

Findings

The results divulge that consumer RED is determined by TAM antecedents, including usefulness (USE) and ease of use (EOU). EOU motivates USE in m-LBS. Regarding pull effect-related factors, absorptive capacity (ABC) is the strongest positive factor influencing consumer RED to use m-LBS, followed by technology willingness (TWI) and innovativeness (INN). Moreover, INN, trust (TRU) and perceived risk (RIS) significantly influence USE and EOU.

Originality/value

This work endeavors to explicate customer RED toward m-LBS by incorporating some meaningful pull effect-related dimensions (i.e. ABC, TWI and INN) and pushing effect-related dimensions (i.e. RIS) into crucial antecedents rooted in TAM. Thus, the findings assist practitioners in developing marketing strategies by boosting pull effects and controlling push effects on customer engagement in m-LBS.
Experiential AR/VR: a consumer and service framework and research agenda
Authors: Zarantonello Lia , Schmitt Bernd H.
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The paper focuses on extended reality technologies and their potential contribution to the improvement of services. First, it identifies extended reality technologies (AR/VR) as the most promising interfaces to enable an experiential consumption of the services. It then summarises their properties and discusses similarities and differences. Last, it maps these technologies onto a consumer psychology framework of experience to derive possible areas of future research.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conduct a literature review and present a conceptual framework of AR/VR contributions on experience.

Findings

The study provides an up-to-date literature review including AR and VR applications for consumer and service experience, as well as recommendations for possible research directions.

Originality/value

Whereas previous contributions adopted the same, experiential approach but focused on different technology (e.g. AI) or considered multiple interfaces and their impact on the consumer journey (mostly transactions), this paper aims at digging deeper into AR/VR, while retaining an experiential view on consumption that best serves the contextualisation of AR/VR.
How and when does centralization affect the likelihood of passive leadership?
Authors: Bani-Melhem Shaker , Abukhait Rawan , Bourini Islam Faisal
Published: March 2022

Purpose

This study empirically investigates the impact of organizational structure (specifically centralization) on the occurrence of the passive leadership. The authors also examine the mediating role of autonomy frustrations and the moderating effect of turnover intentions in these relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

Using structural equation modelling as well as PROCESS macro (version 3.5), the research model is analysed based on a sample of 133 employee–supervisor dyads in various public sector organizations in Dubai.

Findings

Contrary to the study hypothesis and assumption, the results demonstrate that centralization has no significant direct effect on the occurrence of passive leadership; however, this effect found to be significant only via the mediating of autonomy frustrations (fully mediator). This influence is strengthening when a supervisor has the intentions to leave his/her organizations.

Originality/value

These findings point on how and why centralization can lead to occurrence of passive leadership.
The role of talent management and employee psychological contract on employer branding: a pragmatic conceptual model
Authors: Sandeepanie Madduma Hewage Ruchira , Gamage Prasadini , Perera Gamage Dinoka Nimali , Sajeewani Thuduwage Lasanthika
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The purpose of the article is to investigate the role of talent management and employee psychological contract on employer branding and to develop a pragmatic conceptual model while identifying gaps between core concepts.

Design/methodology/approach

The archival method was adopted along with systematic review based on Khan et al.’s (2003) five steps of systematic literature review. The systematic review has enclosed published research articles between 1960 and 2022 in fields of human resource management (HRM), brand management and psychology. In total, 260 Articles were initially scrutinized, and 230 were systematically reviewed finally to explore core concepts, identify gaps and model development.

Findings

This study explored five gaps among key concepts based on systematic review and linked theories, namely, social exchange theory and signaling theory. A conceptual model has been developed to explore the impact of talent management on employer branding with mediating and moderating role of employee psychological contract.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited to conceptual model development; nevertheless, there is enormous scope for empirically testing the model related to various global contexts in future studies.

Originality/value

The developed conceptual model is a vibrant contribution for future investigations of impact of talent management on employer branding with mediating and moderating role of employee psychological contract in diverse global contexts in wining “war for talent.” This study endows a momentous input to whole frame of HRM knowledge because it discourses significant knowledge gaps amongst relationships and effects of identified variables, which has not been formerly revealed.
Performance characterisation and printing parameter modelling of selective laser melting printed capillary wicks
Authors: Meng Xu , Tan Shujie , Ding Liping , Zhang Yicha , Chen Liheng
Published: March 2022

Purpose

The objective of this study is to investigate the feasibility of using selective laser melting (SLM) process to print fine capillary wick porous structures for heat pipe applications and clarify the interrelations between the printing parameters and the structure functional performance to form guidelines for design and printing preparation.

Design/methodology/approach

A new toolpath-based construction method is adopted to prepare the printing of capillary wick with fine pores in SLM process. This method uses physical melting toolpath profile with associated printing parameters to directly define slices and assemble them into a printing data model to ensure manufacturability and reduce precision loss of data model transformation in the printing preparation stage. The performance of the sample was characterised by a set of standard experiments and the relationship between the printing parameters and the structure performance is modeled.

Findings

The results show that SLM-printed capillary wick porous structures exhibit better performance in terms of pore diameter and related permeability than that of structures formed using traditional sintering methods, generally 15 times greater. The print hatching space and infilling pattern have a critical impact on functional porosity and permeability. An empirical formula was obtained to describe this impact and can serve as a reference for the design and printing of capillary wicks in future applications.

Originality/value

This research proves the feasibility of using SLM process to printing functional capillary wicks in extremely fine pores with improved functional performance. It is the first time to reveal the relations among the pore shapes, printing parameters and functional performance. The research results can be used as a reference for heat pipe design and printing in future industrial applications.
Building political capital through corporate social responsibility: a microlevel focus on the role of business leaders
Authors: Borges Andreia , Ramalho Nelson
Published: March 2022

Purpose

There are no management decisions deprived of ethical or political consequences. Political corporate social responsibility (CSR) has been highlighting this assertion but research at the microlevel on this topic is scarce. This study aims to contribute to the microlevel research by proposing a behavioral framework where leaders’ political skills are determinants of engagement in strategic CSR and perceived CSR leverages their ascribed legitimacy to perform a political role outside the boundaries of the organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

Building upon political CSR and critical realism theories, this study offers a general review on key political CSR microlevel concepts and examines multiple dimensions of CSR to explain the indirect effect between boards' political skills and political legitimacy.

Findings

This research suggests that high politically skilled leaders are associated to more CSR adoption which fosters higher legitimacy to act as political influencers. Among these, CSR activities directed toward community members and employees are seemingly the most successful from a political standpoint.

Originality/value

This study proposes a contemporary form of political influence to business leaders that, in contrast with other strategies such as lobbying or financing political campaigns, does not end up damaging corporate image and reputation. Also, this study proposes that not all CSR activities leverage corporate political legitimacy per se, therefore they do need to be differentiated. This study then offers a comprehensive future research agenda, including detailed suggestions for research designs and measurements.
Value co-creation and data-driven orientation: reflections on restaurant management practices during COVID-19 in Italy
Authors: Polese Francesco , Botti Antonio , Monda Antonella
Published: March 2022

Purpose

Covid-19 pandemic impacted the tourism industry worldwide. Especially in catering, where restaurateurs have had to reinvent their business models, information and communication technologies (ICTs) play a fundamental role in supporting these changes, transforming barriers into opportunities. The purpose of this study is to investigate how restaurateurs’ perception of ICTs has changed before and during Covid-19 and to detect whether ICTs can be considered a tool to foster antifragility, resilience and value co-creation as ideal outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

This study presents a longitudinal study on the use of ICT platforms by Italian restaurant managers. The case study analyzed is TheFork. Data collection took place in two different rounds: before Covid-19 (year 2017) and during Covid-19 (year 2020).

Findings

The findings of this study reveal how new rules imposed by the Government changed restaurant managers’ attitudes towards technology. In 2017, restaurateurs showed reticence towards technology, not used in a strategic way; today, everyone uses ICT to improve business.

Originality/value

The study shows that ICT platforms enable antifragility, resilience and value co-creation, creating a service ecosystem supporting restaurant management.
Dissecting the “do good and do well” phenomenon: The case of the UK's market for social investment
Authors: Daggers Jess
Published: March 2022

The developing discourse around social investment and impact investing makes strong claims regarding the possibility of both furthering one's own interests while simultaneously acting for the benefit of others—“doing good and doing well”. Such claims are central to UK‐ and US‐centric attempts to reform capitalism in the face of multiple global crises. This article uses Foucault's writing on (neo)liberal governmentality to analyze a particular manifestation of the logic of “doing good and doing well”: the attempt to build a market for social investment in the UK between 2010 and 2016, a project closely related to the development of the broader impact investment movement. Building on a close reading of Foucault's writing on the role of self‐interest, it is argued that two incompatible versions of social investment are present within the development of the market: one (the “innovative version”) that assumes purpose and profit are fully compatible, and one (the “principled version”) that assumes it is important to maintain a boundary between them. The relevance of these findings and the approach used is discussed in relation to the social studies of market, and ongoing efforts to develop a critique of “doing good and doing well”.
Assessing agreement among crime scene measurement methods
Authors: Lawas Maria , Williams Susan Y. , Jameson Steven , Gonzalez Anthony R. , Ernst Paula , Donfack Joseph
Published: March 2022

A critical concern with crime scene documentation is the accuracy with which a crime scene can be reconstructed. Here, we discuss the accuracy of eight documentation methods as a function of measurement distance between reference ground targets in an outdoor scene. The relative accuracy of each documentation method was assessed with respect to a widely accepted and well‐established standard method for land surveying, Total Station, from which measurements served as “ground truth” or reference data. For the majority of methods, the actual relative difference between measurements when compared to Total Station was small (less than a quarter of an inch). Measurements from FARO LiDAR agreed the most with to those of Total Station, while drone without the use of ground control points (GCPs) agreed the least. GCPs or a reference scale were also found to be important in mitigating increasing imprecision with increasing distance when measuring between two targets ~9–85 ft apart via drone and orthomosaic methods. Additionally, there were no statistical differences in the use of 2D (horizontal) or 3D (slope) measurement configurations for the Total Station. Overall, linear regression of difference plots did not reveal meaningful correlation between increasing distance measured and the error of a method when compared to Total Station. As more measurement methods become available, and the need for training and validating new tools become a necessity, these results point to the importance of establishing a ground truth or known distance range on which crime scene measurement methods can be validated.
C3c deposition predicts worse renal outcomes in patients with biopsy‐proven diabetic kidney disease in type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Li Meng‐Rui , Sun Zi‐Jun , Chang Dong‐Yuan , Yu Xiao‐Juan , Wang Su‐Xia , Chen Min , Zhao Ming‐Hui
Published: March 2022

Background

Although extensive efforts have been paid to identify reliable predictors for renal outcomes of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) patients in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), there are still only a limited number of predictive factors for DKD progression. Increasing evidence reported the role of the overactivated complement system in the pathogenesis of DKD. Whether renal complement depositions are associated with renal outcomes of DKD in T2DM is of interest.

Methods

A total of 213 biopsy‐proven DKD patients with T2DM were retrospectively recruited. Clinical and pathological data of the patients were analyzed. Kaplan‐Meier analysis and Cox regression analysis were performed to explore predictors of end‐stage renal disease (ESRD).

Results

During a median follow‐up of 23.0 (12.0, 39.0) months, 100/213 (46.9%) patients progressed to ESRD. C3c and C1q deposition were observed in 133/213 (62.4%) and 45/213 (21.1%) patients, respectively. Kaplan‐Meier analysis revealed patients with C3c or C1q deposition had significantly worse renal outcomes compared with those without C3c or C1q deposition (p = .001 and p < .001, respectively). Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis demonstrated proteinuria (per 1 g/24 h increase, hazard ratio [HR] 1.134, 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.079, 1.191], p < .001), interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy score (score 2 and 3 vs. 0 and 1, HR 3.925, 95% CI [1.855, 8.304], p < .001), and C3c deposition (per 1+ increase, HR 1.299, 95% CI [1.073, 1.573], p = .007) were independent predictors for ESRD in DKD patients with T2DM.

Conclusions

C3c deposition in the kidney was associated with worse renal outcomes and was an independent predictor for ESRD in DKD patients with T2DM.
Wild meat hunting levels and trade in a West African protected area in Togo
Authors: Sonhaye‐Ouyé Abré , Hounmavo Amétépé , Assou Delagnon , Afi Konko Florence , Segniagbeto Gabriel H. , Ketoh Guillaume K. , Funk Stephan M. , Dendi Daniele , Luiselli Luca , Fa Julia E.
Published: March 2022

We assessed numbers and biomass of species hunted and sold for wild meat in 12 park‐adjacent settlements in the Fazao Malfakassa National Park (FMNP), Togo. From hunter interviews and market carcass counts, 33 species, 28 from hunter interviews and 26 from market surveys were taken, respectively. A total of 2605 animals were recorded in the study, 18 species during the wet season (740 animals) and 26 species in the dry season (1865 animals). In markets, 754 carcasses of 19 species were traded during the wet season, and 1896 carcasses of 24 species in the dry season. Most species were relatively small‐bodied mammals (62% of total numbers of animals reported), the rest large ungulates. Species were generally of minor conservation concern (LC or NT) with only three EN and NE. From the gathered field data, we estimated that an average of 9095 ± 5613 animals per study village were hunted per year, amounting to a biomass of 198,334 ± 191,930 kg. Despite efforts to protect the wildlife within the FMNP, reported level of hunting, particularly of large ungulates within the park, the reported level of hunting is likely to have severe consequences on the long‐term viability of this important protected area.
Impacts of the COVID‐19 pandemic on livelihoods and wild meat use in communities surrounding the Dja Faunal Reserve, South‐East Cameroon
Authors: Kamogne Tagne Cédric Thibaut , Brittain Stephanie , Booker Francesca , Challender Dan , Maddison Neil , Milner‐Gulland Eleanor Jane , Mouamfon Mama , Roe Dilys , Coad Lauren
Published: March 2022

The COVID‐19 outbreak has had considerable negative impacts on the livelihoods and living conditions of communities around the world. Although the source of COVID‐19 is still unknown, a widely spread hypothesis is that the virus could be of animal origin. Wild meat is used by rural communities as a source of income and food, and it has been hypothesised that the pandemic might alter their perceptions and use of wild meat. McNamara et al. (2020) developed a causal model hypothesising how the impacts of the pandemic could lead to a change in local incentives for wild meat hunting in sub‐Saharan African countries. From February 27 to March 19, 2021, we carried out a survey around the Dja Faunal Reserve, Southeast Cameroon, to test McNamara et al.’s model in practice, using semi‐structured questionnaires to investigate the impacts of the COVID‐19 outbreak on wild meat hunting and consumption. Our results generally agree with the causal pathways suggested by McNamara et al. However, our study highlights additional impact pathways not identified in the model. We provide revisions to McNamara's model to incorporate these pathways and inform strategies to mitigate the impacts of the pandemic.
Road traffic fatalities in rural and remote Australia from 2006 to 2017: The need for targeted action
Authors: Mason Hannah M. , Leggat Peter A. , Voaklander Don , Franklin Richard C.
Published: March 2022

Objective

To explore rural motor vehicle collision (MVC) fatalities by trends over time, mode of transport, age, state, sex, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander status.

Design

A retrospective total population‐based time series was conducted using the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) death registration data.

Setting

All statistical local area (SLA) within Australia from 2006 to 2017.

Participants

Australian residents whose deaths were registered with the ABS between 01 January 2006 and 31 December 2017 where the underlying cause of death was related to unintentional transport accidents.

Main outcome measures

Fatality rates were determined using population data collected from the 2006, 2011 and 2016 census. Trends over time by rurality were analysed by financial year. Rates of transport deaths by vehicle type were determined by rurality. Risk ratios were calculated to compare demographic groups based on sex, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander status and age. A 3‐year scorecard was organised by state and rurality using 99.7% confidence intervals.

Results

Motor vehicle collision fatalities increase with increasing remoteness. Females, children from 0 to 14 years, pedestrians, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are at a significantly higher risk of fatal MVCs than their respective metropolitan counterparts. The 3‐year scorecard indicates that road fatality rates in the NT, WA, and all rural and remote areas required immediate attention and targeted action.

Conclusions

There is a need for investment in MVC fatality prevention in rural Australia from inner regional to remote areas in order to meet the road safety targets established by the National Road Safety Strategy.
Postoperative outcomes in surgical patients with obstructive sleep apnoea diagnosed by sleep studies: a meta‐analysis and trial sequential analysis
Authors: Pivetta B. , Sun Y. , Nagappa M. , Chan M. , Englesakis M. , Chung F.
Published: March 2022

Identifying surgical patients with obstructive sleep apnoea may assist with anaesthetic management to minimise postoperative complications. Using trial sequential analysis, we evaluated the impact of obstructive sleep apnoea diagnosed by polysomnography or home sleep apnoea testing on postoperative outcomes in surgical patients. Multiple databases were systematically searched. Outcomes included: total postoperative complications, systemic complications (cardiovascular, respiratory, neurological, renal, infectious) and specific complications (atrial fibrillation, myocardial infarction, combined hospital and intensive care unit re‐admission, mortality). The pooled odds ratios of postoperative complications were evaluated by the Mantel–Haenszel method random‐effects model. Meta‐analysis and meta‐regression were conducted, and the GRADE approach was used to evaluate the certainty of evidence. Twenty prospective cohort studies with 3756 patients (2127 obstructive sleep apnoea and 1629 non‐obstructive sleep apnoea) were included (9 in non‐cardiac surgery and 11 in cardiac surgery). Postoperative complications were almost two‐fold higher with obstructive sleep apnoea, OR (95%CI) 1.92 (1.52–2.42), p < 0.001; certainty of evidence, moderate. Obstructive sleep apnoea was associated with a 1.5 times increased risk of postoperative cardiovascular complications, OR (95%CI) 1.56 (1.20–2.02), p = 0.001; certainty of evidence, moderate; an almost two‐fold increase in respiratory complications, OR (95%CI) 1.91 (1.39–2.62), p < 0.001; certainty of evidence, moderate; and hospital and ICU re‐admission, OR (95%CI) 2.25 (1.21–4.19), p = 0.01; certainty of evidence, low. Trial sequential analysis showed adequate information size for postoperative complications. Baseline confounding factors were adjusted by meta‐regression, and the sub‐group analysis did not materially change our results. This increased risk occurred especially in patients in whom obstructive sleep apnoea had been newly diagnosed, emphasising the importance of pre‐operative screening.
Two‐year outcomes of tirabrutinib monotherapy in Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia
Authors: Sekiguchi Naohiro , Rai Shinya , Munakata Wataru , Suzuki Kenshi , Handa Hiroshi , Shibayama Hirohiko , Endo Tomoyuki , Terui Yasuhito , Iwaki Noriko , Fukuhara Noriko , Tatetsu Hiro , Iida Shinsuke , Ishikawa Takayuki , Iguchi Daisuke , Izutsu Koji
Published: March 2022

The phase II study of tirabrutinib monotherapy at a daily dose of 480 mg under fasting conditions for treatment‐naïve and relapsed/refractory Waldenström's macroglobulinemia (ONO‐4059‐05 study) demonstrated a promising efficacy and tolerable safety profile. We conducted an unplanned analysis with a median follow‐up of 24.8 months to update the efficacy and safety results and to report patient‐reported quality of life. Of 27 enrolled patients, 22 patients continued receiving the study drug. The major response assessed by an independent review committee was observed in 25 patients (93%), including one and five patients who newly achieved complete response and very good partial response, respectively, after the primary analysis. The progression‐free and overall survival rates at 24 months were 92.6% and 100%, respectively. Serum IgM levels in all patients except one declined and were maintained at low levels, although transient increases occurred after temporal interruption of the study drug. The disease‐related symptoms including recurrent fever and hyperviscosity mostly disappeared. Health‐related quality of life, assessed by cancer‐specific questionnaires, was mostly maintained. Grade 3–4 neutropenia, lymphopenia, and leukopenia were newly recognized in three, two, and one patient, respectively. Grade 3 treatment‐related hypertriglyceridemia was also recognized. Nine patients experienced grade 1–2 bleeding events (33%), one patient experienced grade 2 treatment‐related atrial fibrillation, and one patient experienced grade 1 treatment‐related hypertension. Treatment‐related skin adverse events were observed in 14 patients (52%). Taken together, tirabrutinib has durable efficacy with an acceptable safety profile for treatment‐naïve and refractory/relapsed Waldenström's macroglobulinemia.
Insufficiency of hepatocyte growth factor activator inhibitor‐1 confers lymphatic invasion of tongue carcinoma cells
Authors: Izumi Aya , Yamamoto Koji , Kawaguchi Makiko , Yamashita Fumiki , Fukushima Tsuyoshi , Kiwaki Takumi , Tanaka Hiroyuki , Yamashita Yoshihiro , Kataoka Hiroaki
Published: March 2022

Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) activator inhibitor type‐1 (HAI‐1), encoded by the SPINT1 gene, is a transmembrane protease inhibitor that regulates membrane‐anchored serine proteases, particularly matriptase. Here, we explored the role of HAI‐1 in tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) cells. An immunohistochemical study of HAI‐1 in surgically resected TSCC revealed the cell surface immunoreactivity of HAI‐1 in the main portion of the tumor. The immunoreactivity decreased in the infiltrative front, and this decrease correlated with enhanced lymphatic invasion as judged by podoplanin immunostaining. In vitro homozygous deletion of SPINT1 (HAI‐1KO) in TSCC cell lines (HSC3 and SAS) suppressed the cell growth rate but significantly enhanced invasion in vitro. The loss of HAI‐1 resulted in enhanced pericellular activities of proteases, such as matriptase and urokinase‐type plasminogen activator, which induced activation of HGF/MET signaling in the co‐culture with pro‐HGF‐expressing fibroblasts and plasminogen‐dependent plasmin generation, respectively. The enhanced plasminogen‐dependent plasmin generation was abrogated partly by matriptase silencing. Culture supernatants of HAI‐1KO cells had enhanced potency for converting the proform of vascular endothelial growth factor‐C (VEGF‐C), a lymphangiogenesis factor, into the mature form in a plasminogen‐dependent manner. Furthermore, HGF significantly stimulated VEGF‐C expression in TSCC cells. Orthotopic xenotransplantation into nude mouse tongue revealed enhanced lymphatic invasion of HAI‐1KO TSCC cells compared to control cells. Our results suggest that HAI‐1 insufficiency leads to dysregulated pericellular protease activity, which eventually orchestrates robust activation of protease‐dependent growth factors, such as HGF and VEGF‐C, in a tumor microenvironment to contribute to TSCC progression.
Macular sector‐wise decision tree model for the prediction of parafoveal scotoma not detected by 24‐2 visual field test
Authors: Choe Sooyeon , Ha Ahnul , Jeoung Jin Wook , Park Ki Ho , Kim Young Kook
Published: March 2022

Background

Development of a macular sector‐wise decision tree model (DTM) for the prediction of parafoveal scotoma.

Methods

This prospective study enrolled 126 patients with early‐stage open‐angle glaucoma (mean deviation ≥−6 decibels) without the signs of parafoveal scotoma on the 24‐2 visual field (VF) test (i.e., any abnormalities at the four innermost points). Based on the central 36 points of the 10‐2 pattern deviation plot, patients were classified as being with or without 10‐2 parafoveal scotoma. For the discrimination of patients from those without 10‐2 parafoveal scotoma, a macular ganglion cell‐inner plexiform layer (mGCIPL) sector‐wise DTM analysis was performed.

Results

Among 126 eyes without 24‐2 parafoveal scotoma, 10‐2 parafoveal scotoma was detected in 77 (61.1%) eyes. The balanced accuracy of DTM was best in the inferotemporal sector (0.9286; 95% CI, 0.7458–0.9697) and worst in the inferior sector (0.8373; 0.6484–0.9204). DTM revealed that even in the absence of VF abnormalities at the innermost 4 points on the 24‐2 test, (1) 10‐2 parafoveal scotoma should be strongly suspected when the adjacent 24‐2 perifoveal point in the correlated sector is abnormal; (2) if the 24‐2 perifoveal point is normal, and if the probability colour codes of the correlated mGCIPL sector are green, the probability of 10‐2 parafoveal scotoma is very low.

Conclusions

In clinical practice, the evaluation of the 24‐2 perifoveal test points along with the probability colour codes of mGCIPL can be a useful decision‐support tool in determining whether 10‐2 tests are needed for a given patient.
Long non‐coding RNA H19 promotes leukocyte inflammation in ischemic stroke by targeting the miR‐29b/C1QTNF6 axis
Authors: Li Guangwen , Ma Xiaoqing , Zhao Haiping , Fan Junfen , Liu Tianwei , Luo Yumin , Guo Yunliang
Published: March 2022

Aims

Inflammatory processes induced by leukocytes are crucially involved in the pathophysiology of acute ischemic stroke. This study aimed to elucidate the inflammatory mechanism of long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) H19‐mediated regulation of C1q and tumor necrosis factor 6 (C1QTNF6) by sponging miR‐29b in leukocytes during ischemic stroke.

Methods

H19 and miR‐29b expression in leukocytes of patients with ischemic stroke and rats with middle cerebral artery occlusion were measured by real‐time polymerase chain reaction. H19 siRNA and miR‐29b antagomir were used to knock down H19 and miR‐29b, respectively. We performed in vivo and in vitro experiments to determine the impact of H19 and miR‐29b on C1QTNF6 expression in leukocytes after ischemic injury.

Results

H19 and C1QTNF6 upregulation, as well as miR‐29b downregulation, was detected in leukocytes of patients with stroke. Moreover, miR‐29b could bind C1QTNF6 mRNA and repress its expression, while H19 could sponge miR‐29b to maintain C1QTNF6 expression. C1QTNF6 overexpression promoted the release of IL‐1β and TNF‐α in leukocytes, further exacerbated blood‐brain barrier disruption, and aggravated the cerebral ischemic injury.

Conclusions

Our findings confirm that H19 promotes leukocyte inflammation by targeting the miR‐29b/C1QTNF6 axis in cerebral ischemic injury.
The birth and development of clinical physiology in Finland
Authors: Laitinen Tomi , Sovijärvi Anssi , Malmberg Pekka , Turjanmaa Väinö , Hartiala Jaakko
Published: March 2022

The specialty of clinical physiology was established in Finland about 20 years later than in Sweden. In the early 1960s, six physicians working mainly in preclinical departments of physiology were certified as specialists in clinical physiology. Many of the first specialists working in hospitals received specialist training in Sweden. The first hospital laboratories of clinical physiology were established in Tampere Central Hospital and Turku University Hospital in 1968. Thereafter, laboratories of clinical physiology were also established in Helsinki University Hospital and in Kuopio University Hospital and later also in most central hospitals. After clinical physiology laboratories were set up in hospitals and the number of specialists increased, the specialty gradually had more impact in clinical work. In the 1999 reform, nuclear medicine, which had previously been a subspecialty, was combined with clinical physiology. Arto Uusitalo was nominated the first professor of clinical physiology in Tampere University in 1984. The first professor in Helsinki University was Anssi Sovijärvi (1994), in Kuopio University Esko Länsimies (1998), and in Turku University Jaakko Hartiala (2003). Today, at four universities professors of clinical physiology and nuclear medicine lead research and medical education in this specialty. The hospital laboratories have modern equipment, which promotes multidisciplinary research with clinicians in fruitful collaboration. The Finnish Society of Clinical Physiology was founded in 1975. Today, it has about 160 members, about half of whom are specialists in the field. On its 40th anniversary, the Society decided to publish the history of clinical physiology in Finland.
Effectiveness of 12‐week inspiratory muscle training with manual therapy in patients with COPD: A randomized controlled study
Authors: Buran Cirak Yasemin , Yilmaz Yelvar Gul Deniz , Durustkan Elbasi Nurgül
Published: March 2022

The benefits of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) in patients with COPD were reported. However, its effects are limited in severe COPD patients. Further researches are required in new and complementary modalities demonstrating IMT efficacy in severe COPD patients. This study aims to investigate effects of manual therapy (MT) additional over IMT on functional capacity, respiratory muscle strength, pulmonary function, dyspnea, fatigue, and quality of life in severe COPD patients. Sixty patients with COPD in GOLD stage III–IV were included in this prospective single‐blind randomized trial. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either MT additional over IMT at 40% of maximal inspiratory pressure (MIP) (n = 30) or only IMT (n = 30) for 12 weeks. MT group received MT during 12 weeks for 30 min additional to IMT. Pulmonary function, respiratory muscle strength, functional capacity, dyspnea, fatigue, and quality of life were evaluated by spirometry, mouth pressure device, six‐minute walk test, Modified Medical Research Council (mMRC) dyspnea scale, fatigue severity scale, and St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ), respectively. MT group had significantly greater improvement in FEV1%, FVC%, PEF%, respiratory muscle strength, function, dyspnea, fatigue, and quality of life compared with IMT group (p < 0.05). 6MWT (p < 0.001, effect size Cohen's d: 0.915), MIP (p < 0.001, effect size Cohen's d: 1.235), and mMRC score (p < 0.001, effect size Cohen's d: 0.982) were significantly improved in IMT with MT group. This study demonstrated that subjects in IMT with MT group had improved outcomes in functional capacity, respiratory muscle strength, pulmonary function, dyspnea, fatigue perception, and quality of life compared with alone IMT group.
A novel GAB2::BRAF fusion in cutaneous non‐Langerhans‐cell histiocytosis with systemic involvement
Authors: Wu Bicong , Konnick Eric Q. , Kimble Erik L. , Hendrie Paul C. , Shinohara Michi M. , Moshiri Ata S.
Published: March 2022

Several mutations and gene fusions involved in the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway have been reported in histiocytic neoplasms including Langerhans cell histiocytosis and non‐Langerhans‐cell histiocytosis (NLCH). We identified a GAB2::BRAF fusion in a cutaneous lesion from a 22‐year‐old woman who presented with central diabetes insipidus and red/brown papules on her face, oral mucosa, axilla, and groin. Skin biopsy showed a CD68+, S100−, and CD1a− histiocytic proliferation consistent with NLCH, best clinically classified as xanthoma disseminatum. Next‐generation sequencing identified a GAB2::BRAF fusion involving exon 2 of GAB and exon 10 of BRAF. This case implicates a novel fusion in the MAPK signaling pathway, not previously reported in histiocytic neoplasms, as a possible driver of NLCH. Our findings underscore the utility of performing molecular studies on skin biopsy specimens with NLCH to help identify potential targets for therapy.
Can thermoregulatory traits and evolutionary history predict climatic niches of thermal specialists?
Authors: Bujan Jelena , Ollier Sébastien , Villalta Irene , Devers Séverine , Cerdá Xim , Amor Fernando , Dahbi Abdallah , Bertelsmeier Cleo , Boulay Raphaël
Published: March 2022

Aim

Predictions of future species distributions rest on the assumption that climatic conditions in the current range reflect fundamental niche requirements. So far, it remains unclear to what extent this is true. We tested if three important factors determining fundamental niche—ecophysiology, morphology and evolutionary history—can predict the realized niche, using thermal specialist ants. They are suitable model organisms because their body temperature, metabolism and fitness are closely tied to the habitat temperatures.

Location

Iberian Peninsula and Maghreb.

Time period

2013–2015.

Major taxa studied

Ants (Hymenoptera:Formicidae).

Methods

We measured heat tolerance, chill coma recovery, body size and phylogenetic relationships in 19 desert specialist ants in the genus Cataglyphis to test if these important determinants of fundamental niches are good predictors of species realized niches. We modelled species climatic niches using 19 bioclimatic variables from WorldClim for recorded occurrence of each species.

Results

None of the determinants of the species' fundamental niche were linked to their realized climatic niche, modelled using species distribution models. However, both heat tolerance and chill coma recovery were highly correlated with body size and all three thermoregulatory traits were phylogenetically constrained, suggesting they reflect fundamental requirements of each species.

Main conclusions

Our results challenge the basic assumption of climatic niche modelling, that the realized niche can be used as a proxy for determining fundamental niche requirements. These findings are particularly concerning for studies that use the species' current realized niche to predict their responses to climate change.
Phorid parasitoids of the leaf‐cutting ant Atta laevigata in the Atlantic Forest: occurrence, parasitism rate, and host size
Authors: Pimentel Fabíola Aparecida , Bailez Omar , Pereira Renata Cunha , Viana‐Bailez Ana Maria
Published: March 2022

The leaf‐cutting ant Atta laevigata (Smith) (Hymenoptera: Formicidae, Attini) causes significant damage to agricultural crops and forest plantations. Conventional control strategies include the use of formicide bait, whose active ingredients pose environmental risks. Several flies of the family Phoridae (Diptera) have shown potential as biocontrol agents of leaf‐cutting ants. This study aimed to determine which phorid species parasitise A. laevigata in the Atlantic Forest, their parasitism rates, and host sizes. Phorids and ants were collected during 12 months from foraging trails and entrance holes of A. laevigata nests located in a natural forest of southeastern Brazil. Phorids collected in the field and those emerged from parasitised ants were identified at the species level. Parasitism rate was determined for each phorid species, the head width of parasitised ants was measured, and confidence intervals were calculated. Eibesfeldtphora erthali (Brown), Eibesfeldtphora bragancai (Brown), Eibesfeldtphora declinata (Bogmeier), Apocephalus vicosae Disney, Apocephalus attophilus Borgmeier, and Myrmosicarius grandicornis Borgmeier parasitised A. laevigata at an overall rate of (mean ± SE =) 5.9 ± 0.76%. Apocephalus spp. had the highest parasitism rate (2.8 ± 0.60%), followed by Eibesfeldtphora spp. (2.2 ± 0.77%), A. vicosae (0.23 ± 0.07%), and M. grandicornis (0.16 ± 0.12%). Large workers were mainly parasitised by E. erthali and A. attophilus, intermediate workers by A. vicosae and E. declinata, and small workers by E. bragancai and M. grandicornis. The phorid A. attophilus had the highest parasitism rate, the widest range of host sizes, and an even distribution of parasitism throughout the year. The high parasitism rates registered for some nests samples (>40%) highlights that ant parasitoid flies are important natural enemies in natural environments and that they possess a great potential to be used in biocontrol programmes.
Families post‐release: Barriers and pathways to family therapy
Authors: Negash Sesen , Chung Klancy , Oh Shinyung
Published: March 2022

Family therapy has helped repair relational ruptures and restore stability within families for decades. However, service can be inaccessible and underutilized among many minoritized and stigmatized groups, including families post‐release. Harmful sociocultural and relational experiences pose considerable risks to families before, during, and after incarceration. While not exhaustive, this article highlights potential attitudinal, relational, and logistical obstacles to family therapy engendered by therapists, clients, or both. Feasible and accessible clinically oriented conceptual and practical pathways of support to combat such obstacles are outlined to help therapists attract and retain families post‐release.
SYVN1‐mediated ubiquitination and degradation of MSH3 promotes the apoptosis of lens epithelial cells
Authors: Chen Xiaojuan , Zhang Guowei , Li Pengfei , Yu Jianfeng , Kang Lihua , Qin Bai , Wang Ying , Wu Jian , Wang Yong , Zhang Junfang , Qin Miaomiao , Guan Huaijin
Published: March 2022

The pathology of age‐related cataract (ARC) mainly involves the misfolding and aggregation of proteins, especially oxidative damage repair proteins, in the lens, induced by ultraviolet‐B (UVB). MSH3, as a key member of the mismatch repair family, primarily maintains genome stability. However, the function of MSH3 and the mechanism by which cells maintain MSH3 proteostasis during cataractogenesis remains unknown. In the present study, the protein expression levels of MSH3 were found to be attenuated in ARC specimens and SRA01/04 cells under UVB exposure. The ectopic expression of MSH3 notably impeded UVB‐induced apoptosis, whereas the knockdown of MSH3 promoted apoptosis. Protein half‐life assay revealed that UVB irradiation accelerated the decline of MSH3 by ubiquitination and degradation. Subsequently, we found that E3 ubiquitin ligase synoviolin (SYVN1) interacted with MSH3 and promoted its ubiquitination and degradation. Of note, the expression and function of SYVN1 were contrary to those of MSH3 and SYVN1 regulated MSH3 protein degradation via the ubiquitin‐proteasome pathway and the autophagy‐lysosome pathway. Based on these findings, we propose a mechanism for ARC pathogenesis that involves SYVN1‐mediated degradation of MSH3 via the ubiquitin‐proteasome pathway and the autophagy‐lysosome pathway, and suggest that interventions targeting SYVN1 might be a potential therapeutic strategy for ARC.
Effects of spatial management of a penaeid fishery on other target fish species in eastern Australia
Authors: Taylor Matthew D. , Hall Karina C. , Johnson Daniel D.
Published: March 2022

Temporal and spatial closures are often used to manage harvest by trawl fisheries. Trawl closures implemented to benefit a particular species may also benefit other species, but these indirect effects are rarely quantified. Using the New South Wales (Australia) Ocean Trawl Fishery as a case study, the potential unintended effects of trawl closures designed to protect juvenile eastern king prawn were explored for other quota managed Sillaginidae within the fishery (stout whiting Sillago robusta and eastern school whiting Sillago flindersii). Both species of whiting were more abundant within closed areas than adjacent areas, and spawning‐sized stout whiting were proportionally more abundant within closed areas. Thus, closures implemented to protect prawns also provided protection for exploited whiting species, including spawning‐sized individuals, enhancing their overall impact on the fishery. Spatial management of trawl fisheries elsewhere in the world may also similarly benefit other exploited species.