bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A generative artificial intelligence approach for antibiotic optimization
Authors: Torres Marcelo D. T. , Zeng Yimeng , Wan Fangping , Maus Natalie , Gardner Jacob , de la Fuente-Nunez Cesar
Published: November 2024

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a critical global health threat, underscoring the urgent need for innovative antibiotic discovery strategies. While recent advances in peptide design have yielded numerous antimicrobial agents, optimizing these molecules experimentally remains challenging due to unpredictable and resource-intensive trial-and-error approaches. Here, we introduce APEX Generative Optimization (APEXGO), a generative artificial intelligence (AI) framework that integrates a transformer-based variational autoencoder with Bayesian optimization to design and optimize antimicrobial peptides. Unlike traditional supervised learning approaches that screen fixed databases of existing molecules, APEXGOgenerates entirely novel peptide sequences through arbitrary modifications of template peptides, representing a paradigm shift in peptide design and antibiotic discovery. Our framework introduces a new peptide variational autoencoder with design and diversity constraints to maintain similarity to specific templates while enabling sequence innovation. This work represents the firstin vitroandin vivoexperimental validation of generative Bayesian optimization in any setting. Using ten de-extinct peptides as templates, APEXGOgenerated optimized derivatives with enhanced antimicrobial properties. We synthesized 100 of these optimized peptides and conducted comprehensivein vitrocharacterizations, including assessments of antimicrobial activity, mechanism of action, secondary structure, and cytotoxicity. Notably, APEXGOachieved an outstanding 85% ground-truth experimental hit rate and a 72% success rate in enhancing antimicrobial activity against clinically relevant Gram-negative pathogens, outperforming previously reported methods for antibiotic discovery and optimization. In preclinical mouse models ofAcinetobacter baumanniiinfection, several AI-optimized molecules—most notably derivatives of mammuthusin-3 and mylodonin-2—exhibited potent anti-infective activity comparable to or exceeding that of polymyxin B, a widely used last-resort antibiotic. These findings highlight the potential of APEXGOas a novel generative AI approach for peptide design and antibiotic optimization, offering a powerful tool to accelerate antibiotic discovery and address the escalating challenge of AMR.
Resting-state functional connectivity and fast spindle temporal organization contribute to episodic memory consolidation in healthy aging
Authors: Hamel Anaïs , Champetier Pierre , Rehel Stéphane , André Claire , Landeau Brigitte , Mézenge Florence , Haudry Sacha , Roquet Daniel , Vivien Denis , de La Sayette Vincent , Chételat Gaël , Rauchs Géraldine , Mary Alison ,   the Medit-Ageing Research group
Published: November 2024

Episodic memory consolidation relies on the functional specialization of brain networks and sleep quality, both of which are affected by aging. Functional connectivity during wakefulness is crucial to support the integration of newly acquired information into memory networks. Additionally, the temporal dynamics of sleep spindles facilitates overnight memory consolidation by promoting hippocampal replay and integration of memories within neocortical structures. This study aimed at exploring how resting-state functional connectivity during wakefulness contributes to sleep-dependent memory consolidation in aging, and whether spindles clustered in trains modulates this relationship.

Forty-two healthy older adults (68.82 ± 3.03 years), enrolled in the Age-Well clinical trial, were included. Sleep-dependent memory consolidation was assessed using a visuo-spatial memory task performed before and after a polysomnography night. Resting-state functional connectivity data were analyzed using graph theory applied to the whole brain, specific brain networks and the hippocampus.

Lower limbic network integration and higher centrality of the anterior hippocampus were associated with better memory consolidation. Spindle trains modulated these effects, such that older participants with longer spindle trains exhibited a stronger negative association between limbic network integration and memory consolidation.

These results indicate that lower functional specialization at rest is associated with weaker memory consolidation during sleep. This aligns with the dedifferentiation hypothesis, which posits that aging is associated with reduced brain specificity, leading to less efficient cognitive functioning. These findings reveal a novel mechanism linking daytime brain network organization and sleep-dependent memory consolidation, and suggest that targeting spindle dynamics could help preserve cognitive functioning in aging.
Gustatory sensitivity to amino acids in bumblebees
Authors: Rossoni Sergio , Parkinson Rachel H. , Niven Jeremy E. , Nicholls Elizabeth
Published: November 2024

Bees rely on amino acids from nectar and pollen for essential physiological functions. While nectar typically contains low (<1 mM) amino acid concentrations, while their levels in pollen are higher, but vary widely (10-200 mM). Behavioural studies suggest bumblebees have preferences for specific amino acids but whether such preferences are mediated via gustatory mechanisms remains unclear. This study explores bumblebees’ (Bombus terrestris) gustatory sensitivity to two essential amino acids (EAAs), valine and lysine, using electrophysiological recordings from gustatory sensilla on their mouthparts. Valine elicited a concentration-dependent response from 0.1 mM, indicating that bumblebees could perceive valine at concentrations found naturally in nectar and pollen. In contrast, lysine failed to evoke a response across tested concentrations (0.1-500 mM). The absence of lysine detection raises questions about the specificity and diversity of amino acid-sensitive receptors in bumblebees. Bees responded to valine at lower concentrations than sucrose, suggesting comparatively higher sensitivity (EC50: 0.7 mMvs. 3.91 mM for sucrose). Our findings indicate that bumblebees can rapidly evaluate the amino acid content of pollen and nectar using pre-ingestive cues, rather than relying on post-ingestive cues or feedback from their nestmates. Such sensory capabilities likely impact foraging strategies, with implications for plant-bee interactions and pollination.
Stigma management: a counter-accounting of child labour and environmental issues in the mining sector
Authors: Khalid Sharif Mahmud , Uche Chinyere O.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Large mining companies are often subject to stigmatisation. Thus, these companies try to shift stigma to artisanal small-scale miners in stigma management. This study seeks to understand why and how these mining companies use corporate reporting in shifting stigma.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a qualitative study that combines data collected from semi-structured interviews, focus group and secondary documents.

Findings

The findings suggest that large mining companies involved in shifting stigma use corporate reporting to promote a positive image and avoid investor discrimination. Artisanal small-scale miners are targeted because of their vulnerability to stereotyping and discrimination. The findings suggest that mining companies shift stigma by blaming and shaming artisanal small-scale miners for child labour, human endangerment and environmental damage in reporting. The work of these miners is abnormalised as violating moral order. It is observed that the information provided in corporate reporting is often decontextualised from reality.

Originality/value

This paper makes an original contribution to accounting studies by showing how corporate reporting is used in counter-accounting in the context of stigma management. Counter-accounting as a form of stigma management is operationalised through the blaming and shaming of artisanal small-scale miners.
Exploring dynamics of stakeholder salience and functional roles in megaproject collaborative innovation system: insights from the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge
Authors: Chen Xiaoyan , Liu Yan , Locatelli Giorgio , He Qinghua , Zhang Xinyue
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Megaprojects provide an ideal context for exploring the dynamic characteristics of stakeholders within a collaborative innovation system. This research aims to examine the changes in stakeholder salience and functional roles during the evolution of such a system.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is empirically grounded on the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) megaproject in China, analyzed with the stakeholder salience, stakeholder functional role, stakeholder dynamics and collaborative innovation system theoretical lens.

Findings

The megaproject collaborative innovation system can be divided into four stages: the birth stage, development stage, mature stage and re-innovation stage. Stakeholder salience generally remains unchanged throughout the lifecycle of the collaborative innovation system, except for engineering consulting firms (ECF). ECF transitioned from a definitive stakeholder to an expectant stakeholder upon project completion. The number of definitive stakeholders during the first three stages increases gradually. Besides, stakeholder functional roles shift in eight different directions throughout the lifecycle of the megaproject collaborative innovation system because they possess different core resources necessary for implementing innovations and are positioned differently within the collaborative innovation system.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the theory and practice of collaborative innovation in megaprojects. First, it offers insights into the evolution of megaproject collaborative innovation systems from the perspective of stakeholder interactions. Second, it has significant implications for managing stakeholder relationships based on their salience and functional roles at different stages of the collaborative innovation system.
Facilitating entrepreneurship in higher education through practitioner integration: a closer look at the “entrepreneur in residence” initiative
Authors: Aluthgama-Baduge Chinthaka , Rajasinghe Duminda , Ilonen Sanna , Gilman Mark
Published: November 2024

Purpose

We investigate practitioner integration (PI) within higher education institutions (HEIs) by taking a closer look at the entrepreneur in residence (EiR) initiative. Engaging experienced entrepreneurs through EiR initiatives to facilitate entrepreneurship education (EE) has become a familiar PI model within HEIs; nevertheless, how EiRs perceive their role and integration in academia has been under-researched. We deepen the understanding of how EiRs facilitate EE and their role and fit into academia.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative research employs interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) as the methodology. Following IPA guidance, we purposively selected seven EiRs working within HEIs and conducted one semi-structured interview with each participant. The data were analysed using IPA data analysis guidelines.

Findings

The findings suggest that the previous experiences of EiRs influence their confidence, skills and intrinsic motivation in their role in academia. EiRs play a multifaceted role that goes beyond students and simple educational activities to develop trust and understanding among university communities while bridging academic–practitioner, structural and communication gaps that hinder entrepreneurship in higher education. The study reveals the disconnected nature of EiRs’ role in academia and the tensions between academics and EiRs.

Originality/value

This study provides space for unheard EiRs’ voices, enriching the scarce EiR literature by advancing our knowledge about their role and fit in academia. The novel insights into the role of EiRs broaden the scope of EE to university communities beyond students. The findings deepen our understanding of how EiRs foster entrepreneurship by acting as a trust ladder and developing a networked approach to supporting university stakeholders. The challenges lie in how EiRs are integrated and the tensions between academics and practitioners. We also found that EiRs with greater authority, prior exposure to strategic roles within the institution and strong relationships with institutional leaders perform their role efficiently. Hence, this study establishes the importance of a more coordinated, strategic approach to PI within HEIs.
Factors affecting the adoption of energy efficiency measures across business enterprises in India
Authors: Ali Jabir , Shah Farah Farooq
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to analyse the factors affecting the adoption of energy efficiency measures (EEMs), like energy conservation and management, heating and cooling improvements and improvements to lighting systems across business enterprises.

Design/methodology/approach

Analytical techniques such as descriptive statistics, chi-square test and logistic regression with marginal effect have been used on the World Bank Enterprise Survey 2022 data covering 9,374 firms in India to make the necessary inferences.

Findings

Analysis indicates that about 79.7 % firms have reported the adoption of at least one EEM. The chi-square statistics show that medium manufacturing firms with higher age, having female ownership, belonging to bigger cities, spending on R&D, taking credit from financial institutions and having international quality certification are comparatively more associated with EEM adoption. Further, the analysis of marginal effect indicates that enterprise characteristics such as age, size, ownership, lean operations, spending on R&D, availing credit and certification significantly impact the adoption of EEMs. Similarly, firms with higher capacity utilisation and facing business obstacles such as access to resources, regulations and externalities have significantly influenced the adoption of EEMs.

Practical implications

This study provides insights to firms in devising strategies and managing factors affecting the adoption of each element of EEM for enhancing efficiency and encouraging green economy practices.

Originality/value

Considering energy conservation and efficiency as an area of concern among the firms and the availability of limited comprehensive empirical investigation, this study provides unique theoretical and practical contributions.
Striking the balance: unraveling the influence of organizational culture on organization citizenship behavior with corporate social responsibility as the bridge
Authors: Iqbal Junaid , Parray Zahoor Ahmad
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This comprehensive study, grounded in social identity theory, aimed to explore the intricate dynamics between clan, adhocracy, hierarchy and market cultures within organizations, and their respective impacts on organizational citizenship behavior. Furthermore, the research investigated the mediating role of corporate social responsibility in this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

The study gathered data from 477 bank employees in UT Jammu and Kashmir, utilizing a cluster sampling methodology. SPSS and AMOS were employed to assess the model and hypotheses, thereby strengthening the reliability of the results.

Findings

The findings significantly highlight the influential roles played by clan, adhocracy, hierarchy, and market cultures in shaping organizational citizenship behavior. Moreover, the study underscores the pivotal role of corporate social responsibility as a mediator in the relationship between these organizational culture dimensions and organizational citizenship behavior.

Originality/value

This research enhances the application of social identity theory in organizational settings. It offers valuable insights for managers and supervisors aiming to utilize organizational culture and corporate social responsibility initiatives to improve positive employee behaviors. The practical implications derived from this study provide actionable strategies to optimize workplace dynamics, fostering a culture that promotes organizational citizenship behavior. Ultimately, this contributes to improved organizational performance and employee satisfaction.
Green banking, sustainability and COVID-19: a systematic literature review
Authors: Goswami Anju
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study presents a systematic literature review on green banking (GB) and sustainability from 2012 to 2024, filtering 45 out of 561 research publications.

Design/methodology/approach

Using NVivo and Biblioshiny, the study employed a combination of bibliometric analysis and thematic analysis, representing a novel approach in this field.

Findings

The analysis of ‘term frequency' results has indicated that the term “green banking” has gained significant attention during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by sustainability and green finance. This suggests that approximately 12.5% of the literature on GB has emerged shortly after the first wave of the COVID-19 crisis. Cluster analysis and network analysis has divided the GB articles into two major clusters and one minor cluster. Most studies cover titles such as “sustainable”, “sustainable development” and “sustainability.” However, there is a significant gap in research on the theme of GB. Aside from legitimacy and stakeholder theories, no clear theoretical frameworks have yet been published in the field of GB. Among all categories of publishers, Elsevier ranks highest for publishing journal articles on “green” topics. According to publication output by country, China leads with 17 publications, followed by Malaysia with 11, and both Australia and India with nine each.

Practical implications

The in-depth research on GB provides fresh insights for policymakers and academics regarding future research directions.

Originality/value

This study is likely the first to incorporate both bibliometric and thematic analysis to explore the growing phenomenon of GB. Furthermore, none of the existing banking literature explicitly addresses the relevant questions and themes that could benefit future researchers and policymakers.
Shadows across cultures: exploring the dark side of anthropomorphized agents
Authors: Husain Rehan , Tripathi Shalini Nath
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to delve into the cultural differences between developing and developed countries pertaining to the negative behavioral fallouts of adopting anthropomorphized humanoids or robots. The underlying motivation (for the study) lies in the fact that these countries are at the vanguard of artificial intelligence development and deployment, albeit with varying levels of development and acceptance.

Design/methodology/approach

The research framework used in this study is guided by the computers as social actors framework, expectancy disconfirmation theory and is supported by the uncanny valley theory. The data was collected in two contexts using probabilistic sampling technique, N= = 782 (n1 = 393 respondents: developed country i.e. USA and n2 = 389 respondents: developing country i.e. India). The partial least square analysis was carried out for the proposed model’s validation and hypotheses testing.

Findings

This study shows that in developed countries, the consumers have high preinteraction expectations while they express comparatively more dark behavior than respondents from developing countries. Consumers in developed countries focus on anthropomorphic knowledge and design cues, while in developing countries, they pay attention to utility and functionality. Finally, the results also suggest that female respondents from developed countries exhibit more resilience toward anthropomorphized agents in adopting and expressing dark behavior.

Originality/value

The present research makes essential contributions to anthropomorphism literature. First, this study explored impact of the interaction effect on the dark side, a rather under-explored domain in regret literature. Second, this study provides evidence for cross-cultural variations pertaining to the dark side impacts. Finally, this study adds to impact of demographic variables, showing that gender played a significant role in moderating relationships in the proposed model.
Effects of competitive intelligence and halal integrity on Halalan Tayyiban implementation strategy in Indonesian MSMEs: the mediating role of halal orientation strategy
Authors: Susiang Maria Imelda Novita , Siswanti Indra , Permana Dudi , Wibowo Mas Wahyu
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Indonesia is a leading producer and consumer of halal products globally. Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) play a vital role in this market; however, ensuring the integrity and effectiveness of their halal practices remains a concern. This study aims to investigate the interplay among competitive intelligence (CI), halal integrity (HI), halal orientation strategy (HOS) and Halalan Tayyiban implementation strategy (HTIS) within Indonesian MSMEs.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 250 questionnaires were administered to Indonesian MSMEs, and 210 valid responses were analyzed using SmartPLS.

Findings

The HOS mediates the relationship between CI/HI and HTIS in Indonesian MSMEs by ensuring that CI gathered by MSMEs aligns with HI requirements, leading to successful HTIS. This integrated approach enhances the MSMEs’ market competitiveness and ensures that their products comply with Islamic principles and quality standards.

Research limitations/implications

Future studies could examine the impact of a robust HOS on CI use, how HOS moderates the relationship between HI and resource allocation for HTIS and how HTIS affects performance outcomes.

Practical implications

Indonesian MSMEs should update their strategies based on CI insights and changes in HI requirements. Investigating how these findings translate across diverse regions with significant Muslim populations (Southeast Asia and the Middle East) can provide insights into the influence of cultural variations on the relationships among HOS, CI, HI and HTIS.

Social implications

By emphasizing HI throughout operations, MSMEs build trust and ensure products adhere to ethical and religious principles. The emphasis on maintaining high halal integrity throughout business operations reinforces ethical and religious principles within the halal market. By adhering to strict halal standards and certification processes, businesses uphold the integrity of their products and services, contributing to the preservation of religious values and ethical practices within society.

Originality/value

The findings provide a roadmap for successful strategy formulation and implementation in the halal industry.
A system and learning perspective on human–robot collaboration
Authors: Mele Cristina , Russo-Spena Tiziana , Ranieri Angelo , Di Bernardo Irene
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The process of introducing a new robotic technology into a service system is complex, and its impacts on work practices can be challenging. By adopting a system perspective, this study investigates how human–robot collaboration (HRC) transforms work practices (i.e. customer care).

Design/methodology/approach

We conducted a two-year longitudinal analysis of an international company specializing in natural health products, examining changes in customer care practices following the introduction of chatbots. The study leverages expansive learning theory, which emphasizes activity systems and the transformations that occur within them, to trace the integration of robots and their effects on work practices.

Findings

The findings reveal that HRC enhances customer care practices by creating a human–robot activity system organized around shared goals. This system, mediated by tools, rules and the community, evolves through expansive learning dynamics. The process begins by identifying and addressing the contradictions and tensions between current human work practices and robotic capabilities, often revealing challenges and opportunities to improve HRC.

Originality/value

This research offers a novel conceptualization of the systemic and dynamic nature of HRC by placing it within broader frames of activity systems and expansive learning. Collaborations between humans and robots entail an expansive performativity that extends beyond the traditional roles or tasks of either actor or actant. It spans a diverse range of objects, tools, procedures and institutional setups, culminating in transformations of customer care practices.
Factors influencing users’ watching intention in virtual streaming: the perspective of flow experience
Authors: Li Luonan , Zhou Wangyue , Chen Yuangao
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study explores the effects of virtual streamer characteristics, virtual scene characteristics and streamer image-scene fit on users’ watching intention from the perspective of flow experience.

Design/methodology/approach

The survey data for this study were collected from the QQ fan group of virtual streamers between November 26th 2022 and December 5th 2022. The authors survey 274 viewers who have experience of watching virtual streaming and employ the partial least squares structural equation model to test the research hypotheses.

Findings

Among the characteristics of virtual streamers, interactivity significantly influences users’ perceived enjoyment and concentration, while vividness only affects perceived enjoyment. In addition, the novelty of the virtual scene has a notable impact on users’ perceived enjoyment and concentration, whereas aesthetic appeal serves as an important indicator solely for concentration. Furthermore, the virtual streamer image-scene fit also affects users’ perceived enjoyment and concentration. Finally, perceived enjoyment and concentration equally contribute to users' watching intention.

Originality/value

This study explores the impact of virtual streamer characteristics, virtual scene characteristics and streamer image-scene fit on users’ watching intention, which enriches the research on user behavioral intention in virtual streaming. Additionally, this study attempts to combine the stimulus-organism-response (S-O-R) model and flow theory in the field of virtual streaming, expanding the research areas. Finally, this study also provides valuable insights for virtual streamers and virtual streaming platforms. By enhancing their virtual personas and optimizing their streaming strategies, virtual streamers can more effectively retain users and maintain audience engagement. Meanwhile, virtual streaming platforms can gain a deeper understanding of user preferences, enabling them to launch high-quality events that sustain user popularity. These efforts collectively contribute to the advancement of the virtual streaming industry.
Evolution of transmission risk in public health emergencies: an MCMC-based approach in the Chinese context
Authors: Zheng Chaoyu , Zhong Zhaoqiang , Wu Baiyu , Zhao Xuan , Yue Mu , Peng Benhong
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Owing to the limitations of traditional infectious disease dynamic systems in accurately encapsulating the nuances of China’s dynamic epidemic prevention policies and considering the varying sensitivity of local governments to the unfolding of public health emergencies (PHEs), this paper introduces a novel infectious disease dynamic system.

Design/methodology/approach

This system, rooted in the distinct characteristics of infectious diseases and nuanced prevention and control measures, leverages a learning model for enhanced precision. It intricately incorporates factors such as the infectivity in sealed and controlled areas and the role of asymptomatic patients, thereby refining the dynamics of isolation, sealing, control and the transition from asymptomatic to confirmed cases. Employing the Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) parameter estimation approach significantly augments the accuracy in pinpointing the valid parameters of disease spread. Empirical analysis was meticulously carried out, using data from the Shanghai epidemic from 1 Mar 2022 to 1 Jul 2022.

Findings

This analysis not only illuminates the profound impact of control efforts on the trajectory of the epidemic but also underscores the pivotal role of social distancing in curbing the rapid transmission of infectious diseases. Furthermore, it reveals that an accelerated detection rate during the swift spread and peak of the epidemic paradoxically leads to a surge in confirmed cases and a consequent strain on medical resources, thereby impeding the pace of medical intervention.

Originality/value

A stage-wise dissection of the Shanghai epidemic and comparative analyses against the evolution profiles in ASEAN countries elucidates the five stages of PHE risk evolution in alignment with the crisis lifecycle theory. These stages encompass hidden transmission, multi-point dissemination, multi-chain parallelism, rapid spread, fluctuation rebound and multi-community spread, each presenting unique challenges and dynamics in the control and management of the epidemic.
Petrol Prices, Food Prices, and Inflation Perceptions in New Zealand—Evidence From a Threshold Analysis
Authors: Vatsa Puneet , Pino Gabriel
Published: November 2024

Inflation perceptions shape inflation expectations. However, little is known about the factors influencing these perceptions. In this study, we address this gap by employing threshold regressions to analyze the associations between changes in petrol and food prices—two of the most conspicuous prices—and inflation perceptions in New Zealand. Findings reveal a positive association between petrol and food price inflation on the one hand and inflation perceptions on the other, with some evidence suggesting closer associations for food price inflation. Furthermore, the relationships do not change when high inflation rates are considered instead of low inflation rates. Finally, inflation perceptions are more closely related to petrol and food price inflation over the previous year than just the most recent quarter.
The placing of care: ordinary ethics of mobility in the Sino‐Tibetan borderlands
Authors: Ran Peter Guangpei
Published: November 2024

This article concerns the migratory experiences of a group of Naxi in the Sino‐Tibetan borderlands, framed by the drastic social changes brought about by market reform in the past few decades in rural China. The unprecedented level of mobility of a younger generation leaving home for education or work leads to tension between their deep ties to local lifeworlds and a yearning for prosperity envisioned elsewhere. The article looks at the ethical and existential implications of their routinized movements between home villages and nearby cities, which involve both those moving and those left behind in caring relationships. I argue that such movements negotiate a place‐based and gendered relationality that defines people's responsibilities for each other across space and time – including both humans and ancestral spirits – despite living through the fragmenting effects of displacement and separation.
Characterization of lipases revealed tissue‐specific triacylglycerol hydrolytic activity in Spodoptera frugiperda
Authors: Han Wei‐Kang , Zhang Hui‐Hui , Tang Feng‐Xian , Liu Ze‐Wen
Published: November 2024

Lipids perform a diverse and unique array of functions in insects. Lipases are key enzymes in lipid metabolism, and their metabolic products are crucial for development and reproduction of insects. Here, a total of 110 lipase genes were identified in the genome of Spodoptera frugiperda. Cluster analysis indicated that neutral lipases constitute the majority of lipases. Tissue expression profile analysis displayed that most lipase genes were highly expressed in the larval gut of S. frugiperda. Some lipases exhibited a diet‐specific expression pattern, which implied their roles in host adaptation. Key domain analysis proved that none of the neutral lipases highly expressed in the gut has an integrated lid domain, while most lipases highly expressed in the fat body contained both the integrated lid domain and β9 loop, indicating the activity loss of neutral lipases in guts. The assay of triacylglycerol (TAG) hydrolytic activity confirmed that the gut had the lowest activity when compared to that of fat body and epidermis. Interestingly, the opposite TAG hydrolytic activity trends across mating were observed between adult males and females, implying that lipase played different roles in the reproduction of both sexes. In conclusion, neutral lipases lost TAG hydrolytic activity in S. frugiperda guts, but retained the activity in fat body. Neutral lipases would play vital roles in many physiological processes in insects, especially in insect reproduction, which provides palpable targets for novel insecticide development to control insect population growth.
Learning tracheal intubation with a hyperangulated videolaryngoscopy blade: sub‐analysis of a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Ott Sascha , Müller‐Wirtz Lukas M. , Bustamante Sergio , Rössler Julian , Skubas Nikolaos J. , Shah Karan , Sessler Daniel I. , Turan Alparslan , Ruetzler Kurt ,   the VLS trial group
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The number of tracheal intubation attempts required to reach proficiency in videolaryngoscopy with hyperangulated blades is unknown. Understanding this training requirement might guide training for clinicians who perform laryngoscopy. We therefore performed a planned sub‐analysis of a randomised controlled trial comparing tracheal intubation success with videolaryngoscopy vs. direct laryngoscopy to determine the number of tracheal intubations with a hyperangulated videolaryngoscope blade needed to provide an acceptable first‐attempt success rate.

Methods

We included clinicians from a randomised controlled trial who were familiar with direct laryngoscopy and Macintosh‐blade videolaryngoscopy but inexperienced with hyperangulated videolaryngoscopy. Cumulative sum statistics were used to generate learning curves with acceptable success rates of 85% and unacceptable success rates of 70% for the primary outcome of first‐attempt tracheal intubation success.

Results

We included 223 clinicians (25 consultants; 35 certified registered nurse anaesthetists; 36 student registered nurse anaesthetists; 46 fellows; and 81 residents) who attempted tracheal intubation in 4312 procedures. The median (IQR [range]) number of tracheal intubations per clinician was 15 (8–25 [1–77]). First‐attempt failure was low, with only 72 failed first attempts overall, and was comparable across clinician groups. In total, 133 (60%) clinicians crossed the acceptable success rate boundary while the remaining 90 (40%) clinicians crossed neither the acceptable nor unacceptable success rate boundaries. Among clinicians who crossed the acceptance boundary, the median (IQR [range]) number of attempts for learning was 12 (12–12 [12–26]).

Discussion

Clinicians experienced in tracheal intubation with direct laryngoscopy but unfamiliar with hyperangulated‐blade videolaryngoscopy can achieve proficiency after approximately 12 attempts.
Initial treatment response can predict one‐year treatment outcomes in neovascular age‐related macular degeneration treated according to the observe‐and‐plan regimen
Authors: Thomsen Alexander Kai , Fasih‐Ahmad Sohaib , Sadda SriniVas , Sørensen Torben Lykke
Published: November 2024

Purpose

To investigate if the initial treatment response can predict the 1‐year treatment outcomes in patients with neovascular age‐related macular degeneration (nAMD) treated according to the observe‐and‐plan (O&P) regimen.

Methods

In this prospective cohort study, treatment‐naïve patients with nAMD were enrolled consecutively and followed for 1 year while being treated according to the O&P regimen. The treatment response was determined initially post‐loading doses and after 1 year. The functional treatment response (fTR) was determined by the change in best corrected visual acuity, while the morphological treatment response (mTR) was assessed by central retinal thickness and the presence of sub‐ and intraretinal fluid on optical coherence tomography and categorized as good, partial, and poor responders. The relative risk (RR) of the initial treatment response for predicting 1‐year treatment response was assessed.

Results

One hundred patients were included and 94 completed the 1‐year follow‐up. Patients with an initial good fTR and initial poor fTR had an RR of 4.1 (95% CI 1.8–9.2) and 4.3 (95% CI 2.2–8.3), respectively, of remaining in the same response category at 1 year. Similarly, patients with an initial good mTR and initial poor mTR had an RR of 3.0 (95% CI 1.8–4.8) and 8.7 (95% CI 3.0–25.1), respectively, of remaining in the same response category at 1 year.

Conclusions

Both the anatomic and visual functional response after 3 loading doses are predictive of the anatomic and functional outcomes at 1 year in patients with nAMD treated according to the O&P regimen.
Defining Clinical Characteristics of Individuals With and Without Post‐Bariatric Hypoglycemia After Gastric Bypass
Authors: Grover Ashna , Farahmandsadr Maryam , Saeed Hamayle , Cummings Cameron , Sheehan Amanda , Pei Lei , Simonson Donald C. , Patti Mary Elizabeth
Published: November 2024

Context

Post‐bariatric hypoglycemia (PBH) is a complication of bariatric surgery including Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass (RYGB). It remains unclear why only some individuals develop PBH.

Objective

To identify clinical characteristics distinguishing post‐RYGB individuals with PBH, versus without symptomatic hypoglycemia (RYGB non‐hypo).

Design and Setting

Cross‐sectional observational study in academic referral centre. Adults 18–70, without current diabetes, were recruited into three groups: (1) PBH (n = 39); (2) RYGB non‐hypo (n = 25); and (3) individuals without history of upper gastrointestinal surgery (n = 17). Outcome measures included between‐group differences in medical history and medication use, and survey‐based scores for hypoglycemia, dumping syndrome, and autonomic symptoms.

Results

PBH participants were 92% female, age 53.4 ± 11.9 y, BMI 31.2 ± 5.6 kg/m2, versus RYGB non‐hypo (100% female, age 53.2 ± 10.5 y, BMI 32.2 ± 8.0 kg/m2) and controls (65% female, age 44.5 ± 14.6 y, BMI 30.8 ± 6.3 kg/m2). 87% of PBH reported level 3 hypoglycemia, with emergency visits in 28% and vehicle accidents in 8%. Reduced hypoglycemia awareness was reported by 82%; 13%–17% were classified as unaware (modified Clarke/Gold scores). Preoperative hypoglycemia symptoms and family history were reported by 26% and 18% of PBH. PBH had significantly higher survey scores for hypoglycemia, dumping syndrome, and autonomic symptoms, and higher self‐reported neuropathy, autonomic neuropathy, orthostatic hypotension, reflux esophagitis, intestinal dysmotility, and IBS (all p < 0.05 vs. RYGB non‐hypo). Gabapentin and PPI use was more frequent in PBH.

Conclusion

High rates of IBS, dumping symptoms, and orthostatic hypotension suggest disordered autonomic regulation as a potential contributor to PBH. Self‐reported preoperative symptoms and family history of hypoglycemia suggest possible preoperative differences in glucose metabolism in PBH.
Unique Genetic Profiles in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Patients From São Miguel Island (Azores, Portugal)
Authors: Duarte Fabiana , Oliveira Luís , Baixia Márcia , Mota‐Vieira Luísa , Machado Carina
Published: November 2024

To investigate the clinical features and mutational spectrum underlying hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) in São Miguel Island (Azores, Portugal), we analyzed 37 adult patients (12 sporadic, 25 familial) with positive genetic tests. Seven disease‐causing variants were identified, being two novels, in three sarcomeric genes (MYH7, TNNT2, and MYBPC3) and one non‐sarcomeric gene (ALPK3). The novel variants, classified as likely pathogenic (LP), involved large multi‐exon deletions in MYBPC3 (exons 26–32 and 28–33). These deletions were found in heterozygosity in two young males who remained clinically stable, though early onset may predict a more severe prognosis. Segregation analysis in a consanguineous family revealed two new genotypes: a digenic heterozygous for MYH7:c.1750G>C (p.Gly584Arg; P) and TNNT2:c.842A>T (p.Asn281Ile; LP) variants, and a homozygous for the TNNT2 variant. The 70‐year‐old homozygous patient remained stable and without arrhythmic events, challenging the belief that homozygous variants have a worse prognosis. This study is the first molecular and clinical analysis of HCM in the Azores.
Digital single‐operator cholangioscopy‐guided endoluminal radiofrequency of an intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasia of the bile duct
Authors: Deng Xin , Mou Tong , Wu Qiao
Published: November 2024

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Circulating Fetuin‐A concentrations in rheumatic diseases: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Di Lorenzo Biagio , Zoroddu Stefano , Mangoni Arduino A. , Paliogiannis Panagiotis , Erre Gian Luca , Carru Ciriaco , Zinellu Angelo
Published: November 2024

Background

Rheumatic diseases (RDs) include a broad group of disabling conditions with different phenotypes, from autoimmune to autoinflammatory, degenerative, metabolic or mixed manifestations. With the continuous efforts to identify therapeutic targets for new biologic drugs to treat overt clinical manifestations, research is also focusing on the discovery of new biomarkers to diagnose and manage early disease stages. In this context, we conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of Fetuin‐A (FtA), a glycoprotein synthesized by the liver that participates in several biological processes and has been proposed as a biomarker for several disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis.

Methods

A systematic search in PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science, from inception to the 24th of August 2024, led to the identification of 13 manuscripts from 219 records; six additional studies were identified through reference hand‐search, for a total of 19 studies.

Results

There was a significant decrease in FtA concentrations in RD patients (standardized mean difference, SMD = −.91; 95% CI −1.43 to −.39, p = .001), with no substantial contribution from any individual study nor publication bias. The effect size was significantly associated with erythrocyte sedimentation rate, various lipid fractions, geographical area of study conduction, study design and specific type of RD.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our study identified significant reductions in FtA concentrations in RD patients versus healthy controls. These alterations were significantly associated with specific study and patient characteristics. Further research is required to identify the exact pathophysiological mechanisms underlying these alterations and the possible utility of measuring FtA for the diagnosis and management of RDs.
Clinical and morphological features of corneal lymphoma in 26 horses (27 eyes)
Authors: Morris Jacob M. , Lassaline Mary E. , Nunnery Catherine M. , Teixeira Leandro B. C. , Martins Bianca C. , Moore Bret A. , Knickelbein Kelly E. , Scherrer Nicole M. , Plummer Caryn E.
Published: November 2024

Background

Little information describing the biologic behaviour and therapies for corneal lymphoma exist.

Objectives

To characterise histologically confirmed equine corneal lymphoma considering breed, age or sex predisposition, histologic and immunologic features, therapies and outcomes.

Study design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

A multicentre retrospective medical record review was used to identify horses that presented with corneal disease confirmed morphologically as corneal lymphoma from 2012 to 2022.

Results

Mean age at diagnosis was 10.5 years. Males represented 18/26 cases. Warmblood (14) and Thoroughbred (6) breeds were most commonly represented. 25/26 had unilateral ocular involvement. No cases had evidence of multicentric lymphoma. Most eyes (77.7%) had a history of suspected immune‐mediated keratitis (IMMK) or eosinophilic keratitis. Morphological diagnosis confirming lymphoma was available for all cases. B‐cell lymphoma was diagnosed in 19/24 eyes for which immunohistochemistry was performed, with intermediate to large B‐cell lymphoma being most common. Fifteen of 27 eyes received at least one form of adjunctive therapy following keratectomy. Four eyes, which did not receive adjunctive therapy following keratectomy, experienced recurrence. No horses treated with adjunctive therapy following keratectomy experienced recurrence. Malignant transformation of IMMK to lymphoma was morphologically documented in one eye and suspected in three others based on recurrence of clinical signs. All globes were retained and visualised at the last follow‐up.

Main limitations

Incomplete medical records, owner subjectivity concerning onset of disease and cases being lost to follow‐up.

Conclusions

Malignant transformation of IMMK to corneal lymphoma likely occurs in horses. Lymphoma should be a differential for nonulcerative keratitis in horses. Keratectomy and histopathology may be considered in progressive or refractory cases of IMMK to rule out neoplastic disease. Recurrence of corneal lymphoma is unlikely following excision and adjunctive therapy. Cases with large corneal surface area or deep stromal involvement may have a likelihood for recurrence.
A Multiple‐Choice Exercise on Collocations: What Do Learners Actually Remember?
Authors: Li Alyssa Mengxue , Boers Frank
Published: November 2024

Contemporary materials for second language (L2) learning feature exercises on collocations (i.e., word partnerships such as catch fire), many of which require learners to select correct word combinations from two or more candidates. A few studies of the effectiveness of these selected‐response exercises, which are essentially multiple‐choice exercises, have found that learners later reproduce wrong collocations that they were exposed to in the exercise. However, it is unclear if this is a side effect of the exercises or if the re‐emergence of wrong candidate responses is just accidental. The present study examines if wrong candidate responses that learners see in collocation exercises interfere with learners’ recall of the correct responses by having learners of L2 English tackle multiple‐choice items on verb‐noun collocations and verbally report two weeks later in a post‐test what they remember about them. The verbal reports revealed that the learners recalled reading and responding to most of the exercise items, but for only one‐ third of them did they also recall which candidate response had turned out to be correct according to the feedback they received. Furthermore, for close to one‐ fifth of collocations that learners said they already knew at the start of the exercise, these participants mistook a wrong candidate response for the correct one when they revisited the exercise two weeks later. The findings call for a cautious approach to the implementation of selected‐response exercises for collocation learning.