bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strategizing blockchain adoption in public cultural services: a comprehensive scoping review
Authors: Rubino Federica , Agostino Deborah , Spallazzo Davide
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This paper explores the application of blockchain technology in the public cultural sector, where adoption remains limited despite its potential. The study identifies major use case scenarios and empirical examples of blockchain adoption in public sector cultural services through a scoping literature review.

Design/methodology/approach

A scoping literature review was conducted to map research and conceptual approaches to blockchain technology in the public cultural sector, focusing on key use cases emerging and empirical examples.

Findings

The review reveals that while blockchain has the potential to enhance public cultural services, its adoption is still in its early stages. Identified use cases include tokenization of cultural assets, digital rights management and decentralized funding models. Empirical examples in the public cultural sector are sparse, and the impact of the technology remains largely theoretical.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited by the scarcity of empirical data on blockchain adoption in public cultural services. Future research should focus on in-depth case studies and empirical analyses to understand the practical implications of blockchain in this sector.

Practical implications

Public sector organizations offering cultural services may use these insights to guide blockchain adoption and implementation decisions.

Social implications

Blockchain adoption in public cultural services has the potential to democratize access, enhance transparency and foster community engagement, contributing to a more inclusive and participatory cultural ecosystem.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the emerging discourse on blockchain in the public sector, focusing on the often-overlooked cultural services. It highlights the benefits and challenges of blockchain adoption in this sector, providing insights for future research and policy decisions.
Performance analysis of the Next Eleven countries regarding climate change for the selected years
Authors: Tezcan Nuray
Published: November 2024

Purpose

In the Next Eleven (N-11) countries, which are considered emerging investment markets, energy consumption is increasing in parallel with the growing economy. This situation negatively affects global warming and climate change, which are the biggest environmental problems of today. From this point of view, the purpose of the study is to determine the performance of the N-11 countries in terms of energy use and climate change for the period between 2010 and 2022 based on the indicators of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7 and SDG 13 to be reached until 2030.

Design/methodology/approach

Grey relational analysis (GRA), one of the multi-criteria decision-making techniques, was used to assess the performance of the N-11 countries in the study. Additionally, the entropy method was employed in determining weights needed in GRA. The indicators were obtained from the World Development Indicators database, World Bank. Performance analyses were conducted for the years 2010, 2015 and 2022, respectively.

Findings

According to the results obtained, it has been found that Bangladesh, the Philippines and Egypt have the three highest scores, while Mexico, Indonesia and Iran have the three lowest scores. In 2022, Nigeria is placed instead of Mexico in this group. It is observed that the performance scores of the countries have either remained the same or increased slightly over the years. This indicates that it is difficult to reach the 2030 targets.

Originality/value

This study is the first attempt to measure the performance of N-11 countries on climate change using multi-criteria decision-making. In this study, the performance scores obtained for the selected years were compared. Thus, it is observed whether there is an improvement in the performance scores of the countries during the analysis period.
Impact of country-specific business integrity and firm-specific ESG on earnings quality: evidence from EU civil law jurisdictions
Authors: Lindahl Frederick , Kantola Satu-Päivi , Schadewitz Hannu
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to examine whether variations in country-specific business integrity (BI) and firm-specific environmental, social and governance (ESG) dimensions can explain variations in earnings quality (EQ) in Northern and Southern EU civil law countries.

Design/methodology/approach

Regarding EQ, the analysis builds on the “small gain, small loss” (SGSL) model of Burgstahler and Dichev (1997) and Burgstahler and Chuk (2015). The authors explain SGSL with the BI. Southern Europe or “Club Med” is typically associated with a less rigorous institutional regime than Northern Europe.

Findings

Results evidenced higher EQ in the Northern EU compared with the Southern EU. Furthermore, EQ is explained successfully with the Business Integrity Index (BII) and ESG. The results suggest that BII and ESG represent different dimensions, and, therefore, both should be included in the models explaining EQ.

Practical implications

The results show that the Northern EU civil law countries have higher EQ compared with the Southern EU civil law countries. The difference is explained by the BII variable. For the Southern EU, legislators and other public policy decision-makers should build up and apply tools to limit and fight corruption in those jurisdictions. The impactful elimination of corruption would, in turn, establish a firmer basis to foster ethical behavior and financial market sophistication developments.

Originality/value

The study offers additional insights on the determinants of EQ in the EU civil law countries. The prior literature has argued that, categorically, in common law countries firms engage in higher-quality reporting than those in civil law countries. The results evidence that EQ varies within the EU civil law countries; that is, a country’s BI and firm-specific ESG contribute to the explanation for EQ. A more specific explanation for the reasons in the EQ “within” civil law jurisdictions could be related to legislators and other public policy decision-makers in charge of establishing regimes and public policies supporting high-quality accounting.
Seed dispersal mechanisms modulate Janzen‐Connell effects in Mediterranean forests through antagonists and mutualists
Authors: Perea Antonio J. , Wiegand Thorsten , Bastida Jesús M. , Pajares‐Murgó Mariona , Cano Domingo , López‐García Álvaro , Pomarede Lise C. , Prieto‐Rubio Jorge , Rey Pedro J. , Garrido José L. , Alcántara Julio M.
Published: November 2024

Antagonist and mutualist organisms mediate the long‐standing, classical Janzen‐Connell effects and yet they are rarely investigated, especially when they share plant species hosts. Here, we propose that plant species create an “antagonists‐ and mutualist‐scape” which, coupled with seed dispersal mechanisms, will govern the relative survival rates of juveniles within the landscape and influence their later life stages.

We combined data on fully stem mapped plots of woody plant species in two Mediterranean forests (Mixed Forest of Segura [MFS] and Mixed Forest of Jaen [MFJ]) with data on the associated communities of leaf epiphytic fungi, leaf pathogens, sap‐sucking insects and chewer insects hosted by each woody plant species. This allowed us to indirectly test the Janzen‐Connell hypothesis by investigating the placement of plant species with contrasting seed dispersal mechanisms (fleshy fruited vs. dry‐fruited plant) within the antagonists‐ and mutualist‐scapes.

More specifically, we determined the degree of host‐specificity of plant‐associated organisms and defined the antagonist‐ or mutualist‐scapes for focal plants as the mean number of antagonist‐ or mutualist species the focal plant shares with its (sapling or adult) plant neighbours, respectively. We then applied multivariate spatial point pattern analysis to test whether saplings and adults of the focal species tended to be located in favourable sites of the antagonist‐scapes (i.e. were neighboured by fewer antagonist species than expected) or were distributed independently of the antagonist‐scapes.

A substantial proportion of organisms was associated with more than one plant species, with organisms at MFJ being more “host‐specific” than organisms at MFS. Our spatial analyses revealed spatial patterns that differed strongly between fleshy‐fruited and dry‐fruited species and were, in most cases, consistent with our expectations. For example, saplings of dry‐fruited species were placed in favourable sites in the saplings antagonist‐scapes, whereas saplings of fleshy‐fruited species were independently placed with respect to the saplings antagonist‐scapes.

Our results show how the placement of plant species within the antagonist‐scapes changes during the ontogeny, and how this is influenced by Janzen‐Connell effects and the seed dispersal mechanisms. We provide a new approach and indications about the importance of generalist antagonists and mutualists as drivers of the spatial assembly of plant communities.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Understanding the ecological versatility of Tetracladium species in temperate forest soils
Authors: Lazar Anna , Phillips Richard P. , Kivlin Stephanie , Bending Gary D. , Mushinski Ryan M.
Published: November 2024

Although Tetracladium species have traditionally been studied as aquatic saprotrophs, the growing number of metagenomic and metabarcoding reports detecting them in soil environments raises important questions about their ecological adaptability and versatility. We investigated the factors associated with the relative abundance, diversity and ecological dynamics of Tetracladium in temperate forest soils. Through amplicon sequencing of soil samples collected from 54 stands in six forest sites across the eastern United States, we identified 29 distinct Amplicon Sequence Variants (ASVs) representing Tetracladium, with large differences in relative abundance and small changes in ASV community composition among sites. Tetracladium richness was positively related to soil pH, soil temperature, total sulphur and silt content, and negatively related to plant litter quality, such as the lignin‐to‐nitrogen ratio and the lignocellulose index. Co‐occurrence network analysis indicated negative relationships between Tetracladium and other abundant fungal groups, including ectomycorrhizal and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. Collectively, our findings highlight the ecological significance of Tetracladium in temperate forest soils and emphasize the importance of site‐specific factors and microbial interactions in shaping their distribution patterns and ecological dynamics.
Critical crisis management competencies: Perspectives from universities of technology leadership
Authors: Pharaoh Courtley
Published: November 2024

The South African Higher Education sector has faced challenging times recently, notably the #FeesMustFall student protest crisis, which inflicted damages exceeding R1 billion, and the COVID‐19 pandemic, claiming over 102,000 lives in the nation. Against this backdrop, a critical investigation has been initiated to discern the indispensable crisis management competencies required by executive management members of Universities of Technology (UoT) in South Africa. This exploratory study emphasises the higher education landscape, recognising its pivotal role in national development. Employing qualitative face‐to‐face interviews, the research aims to delve into the experiences of executive management members, providing insights into the nuanced demands of crisis management within the higher education context. In response to the challenges posed by the COVID‐19 pandemic, the study adapted by utilising online face‐to‐face meetings, ensuring a thorough exploration of crisis management competencies. Beyond mere identification, the research attempts to elucidate the profound significance of these competencies within the unique context of higher education institutions during crises. The findings contribute not only to the broader understanding of crisis management but also underscore the particular relevance and implications for the resilience and adaptability of South African UoT in the face of multifaceted challenges.
Nanocellulose and its modified forms in the food industry: Applications, safety, and regulatory perspectives
Authors: Qin Zijin , Ng Wei , Ede James , Shatkin Jo Anne , Feng Jiannan , Udo Toshifumi , Kong Fanbin
Published: November 2024

Nanocellulose (NC), known for its unique properties including high mechanical strength, low density, and extensive surface area, presents significant potential for broad application in the food sector. Through further modification, NC can be enhanced and adapted for various purposes. Applications in the food industry include stabilizing, encapsulating, and packaging material. Additionally, due to its unique characteristics during digestion in the gastrointestinal tract, NC and its derivatives exhibit the potential to be used as health‐promotion food ingredients. However, while the safety data on unmodified NC is readily available, the safety of modified forms of NC for use in food remains uncertain. This review offers a comprehensive analysis of recent breakthroughs in NC and its derivatives for innovative food applications. It synthesizes existing research on safety evaluations, with a particular emphasis on the latest findings on toxicity and biocompatibility. Furthermore, the paper outlines the regulatory landscape for NC‐based food ingredients and food contact materials in the United States and European Union and provides recommendations to expedite regulatory authorization and commercialization. Ultimately, this work offers valuable insights to promote the sustainable and innovative application of NC compounds in the food sector.
Multi‐functional reinforced food packaging using delivery carriers: A comprehensive review of preparation, properties, and applications
Authors: Li Xiquan , Song Yao , Yang Xiyue , Xu Jian , Zhang Xiuling , Sun Hui
Published: November 2024

With the rapid development of globalization, food packaging takes on more responsibility, while guaranteeing product quality and safety. In this context, the health risks associated with chemically synthesized additives and inorganic nanoparticles have opened a new chapter in the reinforcement of food packaging with natural active ingredients. Various delivery carriers have been developed to overcome the limitations of poor stability, uneven dispersion, and low bioavailability of natural active ingredients. The combination of encapsulation technologies can increase the biocompatibility of the active ingredient with the packaging material. Moreover, the protective and slow‐release effects of the carrier matrix on the active ingredients are desirable for the reinforcement of food packaging. This review presents the latest advances in the application of delivery systems in food packaging, including the types of delivery systems used in food packaging, reinforced properties of food packaging, and potential applications in the food industry. Previous scientific studies found that active ingredient‐loaded delivery carriers increased the effectiveness of food packaging in preventing food spoilage. Furthermore, the integration of active packaging with smart food packaging exhibits the synergistic effects of freshness monitoring and quality preservation. This review also discusses the challenges and trends in reinforcing food packaging with delivery carriers under a synergistic strategy that will provide new ideas and insights for the development and application of innovative food packaging.
Mung bean protein enhances the expansion of corn starch during twin‐screw extrusion
Authors: Bernin Joshua , Watanabe Preston , Wagner Caleb E. , Smith Stephanie , Ganjyal Girish M.
Published: November 2024

This study examined the effects of the inclusion of mung bean protein (MBP) on the direct expansion characteristics of corn starch during twin‐screw extrusion. Six blends of corn starch and MBP isolate (0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25% w/w) were hydrated to three different moisture contents (MCs) (16%, 19%, and 21% w.b.). The blends were extruded using a twin‐screw extruder at three screw speeds (SSs) (300, 400, and 500 rpm). The resulting extrudates were evaluated for their water solubility index, water absorption index, expansion ratio (ER), true density, unit density, and porosity. As the protein content increased, the porosity of the extrudates increased. The ER of all extrudates ranged from 2.90 to 5.46, with the largest ER observed at an SS of 400 rpm, an MC of 19%, and 25% MBP inclusion. The porosity of the extrudates ranged from 1.79% to 11.42%. SS and protein content had a significant impact (p < 0.05) on the porosity and ER of the extrudate.

Practical Application

This work provides valuable information for the industry on utilizing mung bean protein in direct expanded corn starch‐based extruded snacks. The information could be useful in the development of high‐protein extruded snacks and breakfast cereals.
Effect of pretreatment and peracetic acid pulping on cellulosic materials converted from spent coffee grounds
Authors: Hernandez‐Hosaka Cecilia , Park Bo‐ram , Zhao Yanyun , Jung Jooyeoun
Published: November 2024

Spent coffee grounds (SCG) are the waste byproducts of coffee brewing. While SCG can be valorized to produce functional biopolymers due to their valuable structural components, the lignocellulosic structure of SCG is resistant to degradation because of the tightly bound lignin. Therefore, a pretreatment step is required before pulping with peracetic acid (PAA), an eco‐friendlier alternative to traditional pulping methods, to facilitate the extraction of these desired cellulosic materials. Formic acid:acetic acid:deionized water (FA:AA:W = 30:50:20) or 60% (v/v) ethanol pretreatments were applied to SCG to compare the characteristics of the resulting cellulosic materials after PAA pulping. Lignocellulose analysis showed that the lignin content (7.06%) of ethanol pretreated SCG was significantly lower (p < 0.05), and the cellulose content (29.52%) was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than the untreated SCG (15.50% and 11.50%, respectively), indicating that an adequate amount of lignin was removed to obtain the cellulosic materials after the pretreatment process. Morphological and structural changes in the lignin and hemicellulose were observed in all the pretreated SCG, which further confirmed that these components were degraded with pretreatments and pulping. Ethanol pretreated SCG showed the most optimal results based on the greatest lignin decrease seen from its lignocellulose composition, appearance, and structure. This study exemplified a conversion process to extract cellulosic materials from SCG more efficiently to utilize for cellulose‐based products and verify its potential to be valorized as a waste byproduct.

Practical Application

Coffee companies can provide the spent coffee grounds (SCG) they produce to develop cellulose‐based materials to make biodegradable packaging products rather than throwing them out or burning them. Using SCG for producing cellulose‐based materials can help promote sustainability and reduce food waste worldwide. SCG can be utilized as an alternative source based on their abundance and desired biopolymeric properties, providing innovative solutions to industries and increasing consumer awareness of this cause.
Green technologies for extracting plant waste functional ingredients and new food formulation: A review
Authors: Basile Giulia , De Luca Lucia , Sorrentino Giovanni , Calabrese Martina , Esposito Mariarca , Pizzolongo Fabiana , Romano Raffaele
Published: November 2024

Nowadays, there is a growing interest in food waste recovery by both consumers and companies. Food waste of plant origin is a source of bioactive compounds, such as phenolic acids, anthocyanins, flavonoids, phytosterols, carotenoids, and tocopherols, with well‐known antioxidant, anti‐glycemic, and antimicrobial properties. The use of green and sustainable technologies to recover bioactive compounds from food waste is a possible solution to valorize waste following the principles of green chemistry. Furthermore, today's consumers are more attracted, informed, and aware of the benefits associated with the consumption of functional foods, and with this in mind, the use of extracts rich in beneficial compounds obtained by green technologies from food waste can be a valid alternative to prepare functional foods. In this review, the recovery of polyphenols and fibers with green technologies from food waste for the formulation of functional foods was presented.
Structure and functionality of Pleurotus geesteranus protein isolate as a function of pH
Authors: Chen Jiafeng , Chen Shilang , Zheng Qianwang , Ye Zhiwei , Guo Liqiong , Lin Junfang , Zou Yuan
Published: November 2024

Edible mushroom proteins hold great potential for food applications, but those extracted using the alkaline extraction–acid precipitation method typically exhibit poor solubility in neutral water, with the structural changes during acid precipitation remaining unclear. In this study, Pleurotus geesteranus protein isolate (PGPI) with high water solubility was prepared with alkaline extraction, followed by dialysis and freeze‐drying, and the effects of pH on the structural and functional properties of PGPI were systematically investigated. PGPI was enriched in essential and aromatic amino acids, and the molecular weight of bands in the sodium dodecyl sulfate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis profile was mainly distributed below 45 kDa. The zeta potential of PGPI changed from +16.84 to 17.58 mV when the pH increased from 2 to 9, with a pI of 4.3. At pH 7, PGPI showed a size of 232.7 nm. Away from pH 7, the particle size of PGPI increased. When the pH decreased from 7 to 2, PGPI exhibited a lower α‐helix structure content and a higher β‐sheet content and a gradual decrease in fluorescence intensity. In addition, as the pH approached 4, H0 and the content of SS group increased to a peak. These results indicated that lowering the pH induced the development of more ordered protein structure, which could be the primary reason for the poor water solubility of P. geesteranus protein obtained through alkaline extraction and acid precipitation. Additionally, these structural changes result in alterations to its functional properties, including water‐holding capacity, oil‐holding capacity, foaming capacity, foaming stability, emulsion activity index, and emulsion stability index.
Phenolics in soymilk manufactured from black and Proto soybeans by two continuous‐ultrahigh‐temperature‐processing technologies inhibit DU145‐prostate cancer cell proliferation through apoptosis
Authors: Tan Yingying , Chang Sam K. C.
Published: November 2024

Plant genotypes and processing technologies affect health properties of foods. How thermal processes with different sterilization values influence polyphenols in soymilk manufactured from different genotypes, particularly black soybean has not been well characterized. This study's aims were to investigate how one‐ and two‐phase ultrahigh temperature (UHT) processing technologies, with wide differences of lethality (F0 158.5 and 6.35, respectively), affected anti‐prostate cancer DU145‐cell properties of black soymilk compared to light‐yellow‐Proto soymilk. Phenolics were extracted from soymilk and used for chemical, cell cycle and apoptosis analyses. Total isoflavones and genistein in black soymilk were significantly higher than Proto soymilk by either processing methods. Compared to one‐phase processing, two‐phase produced higher gallic acid in both soybeans, and higher oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) in black soymilk. Soymilk processed from both genotypes by both UHT methods inhibited DU145 cells. Two‐phase‐UHT processed black soymilk was more effective than one‐phase UHT‐processed soymilk. IC50 values (mg/mL) of black and yellow soy extracts against prostate cancer cells differed only by 11%–25%, which were lower than the differences of total isoflavone (29%–33%) or genistein (>50% between two beans). The mechanism by which soymilk inhibited DU145 cell proliferation was through apoptosis as evidenced by cell cycle analyses and expressions of caspase‐3, Bcl‐2, and PARP‐1 proteins. Antioxidant properties, isoflavones, and phenolic acids were negatively correlated with prostate‐cancer‐cell inhibition IC50 (p < 0.05) with ORAC having the highest coefficient (r = −0.98). Overall, two‐phase‐UHT processing of soybean would produce soymilk products with a higher health benefit than a one‐phase UHT method.

Practical Application

This study characterized the potential prostate cancer prevention effect of soymilk's phenolic extract in black soybean and compared with yellow soybean. The crude extract can be prepared much less costly than purified isoflavones and has potential to be developed into a dietary supplement. This study shows differences of soymilks made by continuous high‐temperature processing of two soybean types and can serve as a scientific foundation for future clinical research and commercialization.
Glycation of sunnhemp protein with dextran via dry heating: Thermal, micro‐structural characterization, and amino acid profiling
Authors: Rawat Rashmi , Saini Charanjiv Singh
Published: November 2024

This study aims to obtain sunnhemp protein isolate (SHPI) and dextran conjugates by dry heating method of Maillard conjugation. The effects of different incubation time (0, 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 days) on the molecular flexibility, available lysine content, antioxidant properties, molecular structure, and thermal and micro‐structural properties of conjugates were compared with SHPI (no conjugation) at 60°C and 79% relative humidity. The results indicated the formation of SHPI–dextran conjugates as confirmed by the change in molecular flexibility, lysine content, antioxidant activities, color, and water activity values. The molecular structure revealed the confirmation of covalent bonding between SHPI and dextran. Differential scanning calorimetry and thermo‐gravimetric analysis results exhibited improvement in the thermal stability of SHPI when conjugated with dextran. The microstructural characterization showed that Maillard conjugation changed the surface structure of SHPI. The analysis of amino acid composition displayed that lysine, arginine, and phenylalanine were the dominant Maillard reaction sites of SHPI and dextran. Among all the conjugated samples, 5 days of incubation time was selected as an optimum condition for the development of SHPI–dextran conjugates on the basis of the aforementioned characterization. Overall, it was concluded that Maillard conjugation of sunnhemp protein with dextran via dry‐heating technique could modify and improve its various attributes.

Practical Application

The conjugation of plant proteins with polysaccharide through the Maillard reaction under dry heating conditions represents a natural and green technique for improving the techno‐functional properties of proteins. The study has the potential to establish framework for the utilization of Sunnhemp protein isolate‐dextran conjugates. This approach offers the potential for cost‐effective production of emulsifiers and development of effective encapsulating matrices. The investigation expands on an underutilized plant protein source facilitating an alternative to animal‐based proteins and contributing to the development of a sustainable circular bioeconomy.
Unwrapping the Intricate Interplay Between Energy Dependency and Macroeconomic Volatility in OECD Countries
Authors: Sahu Anjan Kumar , Mahalik Mantu Kumar
Published: November 2024

While research has explored the connection between oil prices and macroeconomic performance, there is limited understanding of the interaction between overseas energy imports dependency and macroeconomic fluctuations. This work addresses the foregoing study using the augmented mean group (AMG) econometrics technique on panel data of 29 OECD net energy‐importing countries from 2001 to 2021. The long‐run finding unearthed that energy dependency intensifies macroeconomic instability, confirming that relying on overseas energy imports will hamper the smooth functioning of domestic economic machinery in the form of energy supply interruption. Besides energy dependency, this study uses government consumption spending, regulatory quality, and globalisation as control variables in macroeconomic instability function. The long‐run outcomes further depict that government consumption spending and globalisation aggravate macroeconomic instability while regulatory quality reduces it. These findings are further checked by applying the pooled mean group‐autoregressive distributed lag (PMG‐ARDL) method. In conclusion, this study provides policy implications to prioritise domestically produced energy use and diversify energy sources by increasing the share of clean energy in the total energy mix.
Autotransplantation of immature second premolar combined with alveolar ridge splitting: A long‐term (6‐year) follow‐up case report
Authors: Feng Cheng , Pan YaBin , Chen Lingling , Wang Jianzhe , Shi Zhenyu , Wu Ye
Published: November 2024

This case report describes a successful autotransplantation procedure for an impacted mandibular left second premolar with incomplete root formation. Despite caries and root resorption, the patient's mandibular left second primary molar was retained. Furthermore, the severe impaction of the mandibular left second premolar ruled out orthodontic realignment. Due to the young age of the patient, dental implantation was not feasible, leading to the selection of autotransplantation as the preferred method for replacing the retained primary molar. To address the insufficient buccolingual width of the recipient site, a combination of piezosurgery‐assisted alveolar ridge splitting and guided bone regeneration techniques was employed in this autotransplantation procedure.
Monkeypox 2024 outbreak: Fifty essential questions and answers
Authors: Cabanillas Beatriz , Murdaca Giuseppe , Guemari Amir , Torres Maria Jose , Azkur Ahmet Kursat , Aksoy Emel , Vitte Joana , Fernández‐Santamaria Ruben , Karavelia Aspasia , Castagnoli Riccardo , Valdelvira Rafael , Orsi Andrea , Ogliastro Matilde , Massaro Elvira , Yücel Esra Özek , Novak Natalija , Agache Ioana , Akdis Mubeccel , Akdis Cezmi A.
Published: November 2024

As the world still vividly recalls the previous monkeypox (mpox) outbreak that impacted over 120 countries worldwide with more than 99,000 cases in 2022, we are now facing a second wave of infections from the monkeypox virus (MPXV), characterized by an exponential increase in cases. The current 2024 outbreak has already recorded more than 20,000 cases in Africa, marking a dramatic escalation compared to previous outbreaks. The predominance of the newly identified clade Ib variant, first detected in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and now identified across multiple African nations and beyond, underscores its enhanced transmissibility and potential for international spread, evidenced by cases in Sweden and Thailand. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared on August 14, 2024, the current mpox outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), calling for heightened global public health measures. The ongoing pattern of unusual, frequent, and extensive outbreaks of mpox with potential global implications poses significant questions. This review addresses, in the format of 50 questions and answers, the 2024 mpox outbreak, detailing its characteristics, epidemiological data, and impact compared to previous outbreaks. It comprehensively explores critical questions related to MPXV virological characteristics, immunological response, clinical manifestations, epidemiology, diagnostics, and available treatments. The review also documents the significant and evolving challenges posed by the current mpox outbreak, highlighting its scale, spread, and public health response.
A microarray‐based IgE‐molecular mimicry index (IgE‐MMI): A biomarker for disease severity, clinical phenotypes, and therapeutic response in atopic dermatitis?
Authors: Scala Enrico , Madonna Stefania , Abeni Damiano , Cecchi Lorenzo , Cocuroccia Barbara , Dattolo Anna , Moretta Gaia , Provini Alessia , Russo Filomena , Sordi Donatella , Pallotta Sabatino , Galluzzo Marco , Talamonti Marina , Villella Valeria , Giani Mauro , Caprini Elisabetta , Albanesi Cristina , Villalta Danilo , Asero Riccardo , Matricardi Paolo Maria
Published: November 2024

Background

The role of autoimmune IgE responses in atopic dermatitis (AD) is highly debated. While IgE targeting self‐proteins has been extensively studied, IgE responses induced by human‐homologous exogenous molecular allergens (HEMAs) remains less understood.

Aim

To investigate whether IgE antibody responses to HEMAs are associated with AD, its severity, and response to dupilumab.

Methods

We enrolled 3325 participants with a history of allergic diseases, including 577 (17.3%) diagnosed with AD. Serum IgE antibodies against 183 exogenous allergenic molecules were measured using the IgE microarray (Allergy Explorer‐ALEX‐2®, MADX, Vienna). Based on international classification criteria, participants were stratified by AD severity and clinical phenotypes. For each patient, we developed an ‘IgE molecular‐mimicry index’ (IgE‐MMI), calculated from IgE reactivity to a panel of five HEMA protein families: arginine kinase, enolase (ENO), cyclophilin (CYP), lipocalin, and MnSOD. Logistic regression was employed to assess the association between IgE to HEMAs or IgE‐MMI and AD, its severity, and response to dupilumab.

Results

IgE sensitization to most HEMAs (32/48, 67%), but only to a small fraction of non‐HEMAs (3/135, 2.2%), was significantly more common in patients with severe AD compared to other patient groups. The IgE‐MMI was positive in 295/2748 (10.7%) of allergic patients without AD, and in 58/283 (20%), 52/134 (39%), and 86/160 (54%) of patients with remitting, moderate, or severe AD, respectively. It was strongly associated with specific phenotypes, such as flexural dermatitis (OR 8.4, 95% CI: 6.3–11.2), head and neck dermatitis (OR: 16.5, 95% CI: 7.4–37.2), and generalized eczema (OR: 8.6, 95% CI: 4.9–15.6). Poor response to dupilumab was associated with IgE antibodies to ENO (OR: 22.7, 95% CI: 1.7–302.9), but inversely associated with IgE antibodies to MnSOD (OR: 0.1, 95% CI: 0.02–0.8) and NPC‐2 from dust mites (OR: 0.1, 95% CI: 0.01–0.9).

Conclusion

IgE microarrays are useful for broadly assessing IgE to HEMAs in allergic patients. IgE reactivity to HEMAs and a positive IgE‐MMI may serve as valuable biomarkers for severe AD, its clinical phenotypes, and the response to dupilumab.
Sound mind, sound body, or vice versa? Mind–body beliefs shape health behaviors
Authors: Ku Xyle , Jyung Mina , Kim Jennifer Hyunji , Choi Incheol
Published: November 2024

The present research examines whether and how lay intuitive theory regarding the interconnectedness of the mind and body, which we term mind–body correspondence (MBC), predicts engagement in health behaviors. Specifically, we hypothesised that MBC would strengthen mind influences the body (MIB) and body influences the mind (BIM) beliefs, which would in turn increase mental and physical health behaviors, respectively. We tested associations among MBC (independent variable), MIB and BIM beliefs (proposed mediators), and mental and physical health behaviors (dependent variables) using correlational designs in Studies 1a to 1c. Results revealed positive associations between MBC and (1) MIB and BIM and (2) mental and physical health behaviors, as well as between MIB and mental health behaviors and between BIM and physical health behaviors. We then tested the full model in Study 2 with an experimental manipulation of MBC and in Study 3 with a two‐wave longitudinal design. Both studies revealed significant indirect effects of MBC on mental health behaviors via MIB and on physical health behaviors via BIM. Together, our findings suggest that one can encourage mental health behaviors by emphasizing the mind‐to‐body connection and physical health behaviors by highlighting the body‐to‐mind connection.
Multiscale Spectral Manifold Wavelet Regularizer for Unsupervised Deep Functional Maps
Authors: Liu Shengjun , Meng Jing , Hu Ling , Guo Yueyu , Liu Xinru , Yang Xiaoxia , Wang Haibo , Li Qinsong
Published: November 2024

In deep functional maps, the regularizer computing the functional map is especially crucial for ensuring the global consistency of the computed pointwise map. As the regularizers integrated into deep learning should be differentiable, it is not trivial to incorporate informative axiomatic structural constraints into the deep functional map, such as the orientation‐preserving term. Although commonly used regularizers include the Laplacian‐commutativity term and the resolvent Laplacian commutativity term, these are limited to single‐scale analysis for capturing geometric information. To this end, we propose a novel and theoretically well‐justified regularizer commuting the functional map with the multiscale spectral manifold wavelet operator. This regularizer enhances the isometric constraints of the functional map and is conducive to providing it with better structural properties with multiscale analysis. Furthermore, we design an unsupervised deep functional map with the regularizer in a fully differentiable way. The quantitative and qualitative comparisons with several existing techniques on the (near‐)isometric and non‐isometric datasets show our method's superior accuracy and generalization capabilities. Additionally, we illustrate that our regularizer can be easily inserted into other functional map methods and improve their accuracy.
Construction of a Prognostic Model for Mitochondria and Macrophage Polarization Correlation in Glioma Based on Single‐Cell and Transcriptome Sequencing
Authors: Chen Pengyu , Wang Heping , Zhang Yufei , Qu Siyao , Zhang Yulian , Yang Yanbo , Zhang Chuanpeng , He Kun , Dang Hanhan , Yang Yang , Li Shaoyi , Yu Yanbing
Published: November 2024

Background

Numerous diseases are associated with the interplay of mitochondrial and macrophage polarization. However, the correlation of mitochondria‐related genes (MRGs) and macrophage polarization‐related genes (MPRGs) with the prognosis of glioma remains unclear. This study aimed to examine this relationship based on bioinformatic analysis.

Methods

Glioma‐related datasets (TCGA‐GBMLGG, mRNA‐seq‐325, mRNA‐seq‐693, GSE16011, GSE4290, and GSE138794) were included in this study. The intersection genes were obtained by overlapping differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from differential expression analysis in GSE16011, key module genes from WGCNA, and MRGs. Subsequently, the intersection genes were further screened to obtain prognostic genes. Following this, a risk model was developed and verified. After that, independent prognostic factors were identified, followed by the construction of a nomogram and subsequent evaluation of its predictive ability. Furthermore, immune microenvironment analysis and expression validation were implemented. The GSE138794 dataset was utilized to evaluate the expression of prognostic genes at a cellular level, followed by conducting an analysis on cell‐to‐cell communication. Finally, the results were validated in different datasets and tissue samples from patients.

Results

ECI2, MCCC2, OXCT1, SUCLG2, and CPT2 were identified as prognostic genes for glioma. The risk model constructed based on these genes in TCGA‐GBMLGG demonstrated certain accuracy in predicting the occurrence of glioma. Additionally, the nomogram constructed based on risk score and grade exhibited strong performance in predicting patient survival. Significant differences were observed in the proportion of 27 immune cell types (e.g., activated B cells and macrophages) and the expression of 32 immune checkpoints (e.g., CD70, CD200, and CD48) between the two risk groups. Single‐cell RNA sequencing showed that CPT2, ECI2, and SUCLG2 were highly expressed in oligodendrocytes, neural progenitor cells, and BMDMs, respectively. The results of cell–cell communication analysis revealed that both oligodendrocytes and BMDMs exhibited a substantial number of interactions with high strength.

Conclusion

This study revealed five genes associated with the prognosis of glioma (ECI2, MCCC2, OXCT1, SUCLG2, and CPT2), providing novel insights into individualized treatment and prognosis.
Causal Effects of Gastroesophageal Reflux on Chronic Rhinosinusitis: A Bidirectional Two‐Sample Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Xin Xiang , Yang Yang , Xuelei Li , Hongbing Yao , Xinye Tang , Jia Liang
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Observational studies have shown a bidirectional association between gastroesophageal reflux (GER) and chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) or chronic rhinitis (CR), but it is not clear whether this association is causal.

Objectives

This study was to investigate the causality between GER and CRS or CR using bidirectional two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis.

Methods

Using pooled data from large genome‐wide association studies (GWAS), genetic loci independently associated with GER, CRS and CR in populations of European and American ancestry were selected as instrumental variables (IVs). The inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was used to analyse the random effects model of MR, and the odds ratio (OR) was used as the evaluation index to explore the bidirectional causality between GER and CRS or CR. Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) outliers were detected using MR‐pleiotropy Residual Sum and Outliers (MR‐PRESSO). The MR–Egger intercept test examined the horizontal pleiotropy of SNPs. The “leave‐one‐out” sensitivity analysis examined whether MR results were affected by a single SNP.

Results

The main results of IVW showed that GER increased the risk of CRS (OR = 1.3795, 95% CI = 1.188–1.603, p < 0.0500) and CR (OR = 1.3941, 95% CI = 1.1671–1.6652, p < 0.0500). The obtained SNPs as IVs for GER, CRS and CR had no significant horizontal pleiotropy, heterogeneity or bias. Regarding the reverse directions, no notable associations could be found.

Conclusion

This MR analysis revealed that genetically predicted GER had a causal effect on an increased risk of CRS or CR, but not vice versa. These results have great implications for the management of CRS (especially for refractory CRS) or CR in clinical practice.
Time trends in incidence of pilonidal sinus disease from 1996 to 2021: A Danish population‐based cohort study
Authors: Faurschou Ida Kaad , Erichsen Rune , Doll Dietrich , Haas Susanne
Published: November 2024

Aim

Pilonidal sinus disease (PSD) is a common condition, but no data on disease occurrence exist outside highly selected settings. The aim of this study was to assess time trends in the incidence of PSD in a nationwide setting.

Method

Using data from nationwide Danish registries, we identified 48 247 patients recorded with diagnostic or surgical procedure codes representing PSD between 1996 and 2021. We stratified by sex and computed the age‐adjusted and age‐specific incidence rate, comparing 5‐year intervals with the incidence rate ratio (IRR).

Results

The overall incidence of PSD increased from 26.1 to 39.6/100 000 person‐years (PY) from the period 1996–2000 to the period 2016–2021 (IRR 1.52, 95% CI 0.78–2.94). The incidence increased from 35.8 to 56.9/100 000 PY (IRR 1.59, 95% CI 0.52–4.89) in male patients and from 16.4 to 22.5/100 000 PY (IRR 1.37, 95% CI 0.68–2.76) in female patients. The peak of age‐specific incidence was 215.7/100 000 PY (95% CI 206.1–245.4) among 20‐year‐old men and 107.9/100.000 PY (95% CI 100.0–114.0) among 18‐year‐old women. Over the study period, the median age at first hospital contact decreased from 27 years [interquartile range (IQR) 22–34 years) to 25 years (IQR 20–34 years) in men but remained stable around 23 years (IQR 18–32 years) in women. However, for both sexes, the highest increase in incidence was seen in early adolescence.

Conclusion

The incidence of PSD has increased significantly over the last decades. The increase is driven primarily by men and boys, with the highest increase in incidence seen in early adolescence. The increased burden of disease is not reflected in the literature, and more studies are warranted to understand the drivers of this development.
A first‐in‐human, randomized study of the safety, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of povetacicept, an enhanced dual BAFF/APRIL antagonist, in healthy adults
Authors: Davies Rupert , Peng Stanford L. , Lickliter Jason , McLendon Kristi , Enstrom Amanda , Chunyk Allison G. , Blanchfield Lori , Wang NingXin , Blair Tiffany , Thomas Heather M. , Smith Alina , Dillon Stacey R.
Published: November 2024

Therapeutic agents targeting the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) superfamily cytokines B‐cell activating factor (BAFF, BLyS) and/or A PRoliferation Inducing Ligand (APRIL) have demonstrated clinical effectiveness in multiple autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, lupus nephritis, and immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN). However, their clinical utility can often be limited by incomplete and/or prolonged times to clinical response and inconvenient dosing regimens, which may be improved by more potent dual inhibition of both cytokines. Povetacicept (ALPN‐303; TACI vTD‐Fc) is a crystallizable fragment (Fc) fusion protein of an engineered transmembrane activator and CAML interactor (TACI) domain which mediates more potent inhibitory activity than wild‐type TACI‐Fc or BAFF‐ or APRIL‐specific antibodies and demonstrates superior pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic activity in multiple preclinical disease models. In this first‐in‐human study in healthy adults, povetacicept was well‐tolerated as single ascending doses of up to 960 mg administered intravenously or subcutaneously. Dose‐dependent pharmacokinetics were observed. Coverage of BAFF and APRIL was observed for 2–3 weeks and ≥4 weeks after doses of 80 mg and ≥240 mg, respectively. Maximal pharmacodynamic effects were observed at dose levels ≥80 mg for a single dose, associated with on‐target reductions in antibody‐secreting cells as well as in all circulating immunoglobulin isotypes, including the IgAN disease‐related biomarker galactose‐deficient‐immunoglobulin A1 (Gd‐IgA1), and were superior to results reported for wild‐type TACI‐Fc. These data strongly support further development of povetacicept for the treatment of B‐cell‐mediated automimmune diseases.