bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Superficial Musculo-Aponeurotic System (SMAS): Does it Really Exist as an Anatomic Entity?
Authors: Minelli Lennert , van der Lei Berend , Mendelson Bryan C.
Published: April 2023

INTRODUCTION:

The exact anatomic entity behind the term superficial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) remains poorly understood. The different interpretations of the term SMAS by anatomists, surgeons and histologists have caused confusion. This study aims to provide clarity regarding this term and the relevant anatomy.

MATERIALS & METHODS:

A literature review was conducted to uncover the variety of descriptions of the term SMAS. A feasibility study, followed by a conclusive series of standardized layered dissections, complemented by histology and sheet plastination was performed on fifty cadaver heads (16 embalmed, 34 fresh, mean age 75 years).

RESULTS:

Most literature considers the SMAS as layer 3, i.e., a musculoaponeurotic layer that separates the subcutaneous fat of the superficial fascia from the deep fat of the deep fascia. Our dissections, histology and sheet plastination demonstrated that a layer 3 is present only where there are flat mimetic muscles and platysma-auricular fascia over the posterior part of the parotid gland as the evolutionary remnant of the platysma, but not between the flat mimetic muscles. Here, the subcutaneous fat is in direct contact with the deep fat without the interposition of a musculo-aponeurotic layer 3.

CONCLUSION:

Due to the absence of a distinct and complete layer 3 connecting the flat mimetic muscles, we conclude that the SMAS as originally concepted does not exist as a specific anatomical entity. In retrospect, the surgically created compound layered flap composed of a variable thickness of subcutaneous fat, mimetic muscles (platysma, orbicularis oculi, …), and a thin layer of deep fascia, is what is known as the “SMAS”.

Level of Evidence:

No level of evidence is needed for Cadaver Study Articles.
Neurosurgical interventions for cancer pain
Authors: Alamri Alexander , Mostofi Abteen , Pereira Erlick AC
Published: April 2023

Purpose of Review

Half of all cancer patients will develop cancer-related pain, and a fifth of these patients will continue to experience pain refractory to maximal pharmacological therapy. This, together with the opioid crisis, has prompted a resurgence in neurosurgical treatments. Neuromodulatory or neuroablative procedures are largely used for various nonmalignant, chronic pain conditions, but there is growing evidence to support their use in cancer pain. This review aims to cover the main neurosurgical treatments that may prove useful in the changing sphere of cancer pain treatment.

Recent Findings

Neuromodulation techniques for pain have largely replaced neuroablation in neurosurgical practice due to the higher risk of inadvertent permanent neurological deficits from the latter. When compared to neuroablative approaches for severe treatment-refractory cancer pain, neuromodulation is more expensive (largely due to implant cost) and requires more follow-up, with greater engagement needed from the health service, the patient and their carers. Furthermore, neuroablation has a more rapid onset of effect.

Neuromodulation techniques for pain have largely replaced neuroablation in neurosurgical practice due to the higher risk of inadvertent permanent neurological deficits from the latter. Whilst this approach is beneficial when treating nonmalignant pain, neuromodulation in patients with pain related to advanced cancer still has a limited role. Neuroablative procedures are less expensive, require less follow-up, and can have a lower burden on health services, patients and their carers.
Patient-reported outcomes versus proxy-reported outcomes in supportive and palliative care: a summary of recent literature
Authors: Oldenburger Eva , Devlies Julie , Callens Dylan , De Roo Maaike L.
Published: April 2023

Purpose of the review

Patient-reported outcomes are one of the most valuable clinical outcome measures. In palliative care, however, they are often difficult to retrieve. Therefore, proxy-reported outcomes are sometimes used as a surrogate. As there have been concerns about the validity of these by-proxy reports, the authors reviewed the most recent literature for the most recent insights in using proxy-reported outcomes.

Recent findings

The authors found very little new research on patient versus proxy-reported outcomes in palliative care. The results of the studies the authors found seem to correlate with older evidence concluding that there are many factors influencing a discrepancy between patients’ outcomes and how this is perceived by their proxies, such as the well-being paradox, caregiver burden, and the proxies’ own mental well-being.

While proxies’ opinions and knowledge of the patients’ values are important factors to consider, proxy-reported outcomes should be used with caution and viewed as a complementary perspective rather than a true substitute for the individual patient’s outcome.
Burn excision within 48 hours portends better outcomes than standard management: A nationwide analysis
Authors: Ramsey Walter A. , O'Neil Christopher F. , Corona Andres M. , Cohen Brianna L. , Lyons Nicole B. , Meece Matthew S. , Saberi Rebecca A. , Gilna Gareth P. , Satahoo Shevonne S. , Kaufman Joyce I. , Schulman Carl I. , Namias Nicholas , Proctor Kenneth G. , Pizano Louis R.
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have debated the optimal time to perform excision and grafting of second- and third-degree burns. The current consensus is that excision should be performed before the sixth hospital day. We hypothesize that patients who undergo excision within 48 hours have better outcomes.

METHODS

The American College of Surgeons Trauma Quality Programs data set was used to identify all patients with at least 10% total body surface area second- and third-degree burns from years 2017 to 2019. Patients with other serious injuries (any Abbreviated Injury Scale, >3), severe inhalational injury, prehospital cardiac arrest, and interhospital transfers were excluded. International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, procedure codes were used to ascertain time of first excision. Patients who underwent first excision within 48 hours of admission (early excision) were compared with those who underwent surgery 48 to 120 hours from admission (standard therapy). Propensity score matching was performed to control for age and total body surface area burned.

RESULTS

A total of 2,270 patients (72% male) were included in the analysis. The median age was 37 (23–55) years. Early excision was associated with shorter hospital length of stay (LOS), and intensive care unit LOS. Complications including deep venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, ventilator-associated pneumonia, and catheter-associated urinary tract infection were significantly lower with early excision. There was no significant difference in mortality.

CONCLUSION

Performance of excision within 48 hours is associated with shorter hospital LOS and fewer complications than standard therapy. We recommend taking patients for operative debridement and temporary or, when feasible, permanent coverage within 48 hours. Prospective trials should be performed to verify the advantages of this treatment strategy.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic/Care Management; Level III.
Anti-Factor Xa Monitoring of Enoxaparin Thromboembolism Prophylaxis in Emergency General Surgery Patients
Authors: Pokrzywa Courtney J , Biesboer Elise A , Figueroa Juan , Al Tannir Abdul Hafiz , de Moya Marc , Morris Rachel S , Murphy Patrick B
Published: April 2023

Background:

Rates of venous thromboembolism (VTE) remain high in emergency general surgery (EGS) patients despite chemical VTE prophylaxis. Emerging literature supports anti-factor Xa (AFXa) monitoring for patients on enoxaparin (LMWH), though a significant knowledge gap remains regarding the optimal dosing and monitoring in EGS patients. We hypothesize that standard dose VTE prophylaxis regimens provide inadequate VTE prophylaxis in EGS patients.

Study Design:

A prospective cohort study of all adult EGS patients at a single institution between August 2021-February 2022 receiving standard dose LMWH for VTE prophylaxis was performed. AFXa levels were obtained 4-hours following the third dose of enoxaparin with a target range of 0.3-0.5 IU/mL. Adjustment to dosing and repeat AFXa measurement after the adjusted 3 rd dose was obtained.

Results:

A total of 81 patients underwent AFXa monitoring, the majority (75%) of whom were started on 40 mg LMWH daily. Initial peak AFXa measurement was low in 87.7% of patients (mean 0.16 IU/mL). Of patients who had an initial low AFXa, remained admitted, and underwent dosing adjustment and AFXa reassessment (27%), the majority were adjusted to either 30mg or 40mg LMWH twice daily (23.7% and 55%, respectively), with 82% of patients remaining low. There were no significant differences in demographics or body mass index between those with low vs. adequate AFXa levels at either initial or subsequent measurement.

Conclusion:

Standard LMWH dosing provides inadequate AFXa inhibition for adequate VTE prophylaxis. These findings highlight the importance of ongoing AFXa monitoring and the need to establish clinical protocols to improve VTE prophylaxis in EGS patients.
The impact of wildlife and environmental factors on hantavirus infection in the host and its translation into human risk
Authors: Wang Yingying X. G. , Voutilainen Liina , Aminikhah Mahdi , Helle Heikki , Huitu Otso , Laakkonen Juha , Lindén Andreas , Niemimaa Jukka , Sane Jussi , Sironen Tarja , Vapalahti Olli , Henttonen Heikki , Kallio Eva R.
Published: April 2023

Identifying factors that drive infection dynamics in reservoir host populations is essential in understanding human risk from wildlife-originated zoonoses. We studied zoonotic Puumala orthohantavirus (PUUV) in the host, the bank vole (
Myodes glareolus
), populations in relation to the host population, rodent and predator community and environment-related factors and whether these processes are translated into human infection incidence. We used 5-year rodent trapping and bank vole PUUV serology data collected from 30 sites located in 24 municipalities in Finland. We found that PUUV seroprevalence in the host was negatively associated with the abundance of red foxes, but this process did not translate into human disease incidence, which showed no association with PUUV seroprevalence. The abundance of weasels, the proportion of juvenile bank voles in the host populations and rodent species diversity were negatively associated with the abundance index of PUUV positive bank voles, which, in turn, showed a positive association with human disease incidence. Our results suggest certain predators, a high proportion of young bank vole individuals, and a diverse rodent community, may reduce PUUV risk for humans through their negative impacts on the abundance of infected bank voles.
Shining a light on species coexistence: visual traits drive bumblebee communities
Authors: Bartholomée Océane , Dwyer Ciara , Tichit Pierre , Caplat Paul , Baird Emily , Smith Henrik G.
Published: April 2023

Local coexistence of bees has been explained by flower resource partitioning, but coexisting bumblebee species often have strongly overlapping diets. We investigated if light microhabitat niche separation, underpinned by visual traits, could serve as an alternative mechanism underlying local coexistence of bumblebee species. To this end, we focused on a homogeneous flower resource—bilberry—in a heterogeneous light environment—hemi-boreal forests. We found that bumblebee communities segregated along a gradient of light intensity. The community-weighted mean of the eye parameter—a metric measuring the compromise between light sensitivity and visual resolution—decreased with light intensity, showing a higher investment in light sensitivity of communities observed in darker conditions. This pattern was consistent at the species level. In general, species with higher eye parameter (larger investment in light sensitivity) foraged in dimmer light than those with a lower eye parameter (higher investment in visual resolution). Moreover, species realized niche optimum was linearly related to their eye parameter. These results suggest microhabitat niche partitioning to be a potential mechanism underpinning bumblebee species coexistence. This study highlights the importance of considering sensory traits when studying pollinator habitat use and their ability to cope with changing environments.
Resistance to antibiotics in clinical isolates ofEscherichia coliproducing and non-producing Extended Spectrum Betalactamases (ESBL) obtained from urine cultures in patients with urinary tract infection
Authors: Benítez Vergara María Guadalupe , Cruz Rosas María Fernanda , Rojas García Pablo Gustavo , García Contreras Rodolfo , Martínez Gonzalez Gabriel , Almeida Villegas Jorge Angel
Published: April 2023

Objective

Identify resistance patterns against various antibiotics inEscherichia coliproducers and non-producers of extended spectrum beta-lactamases in urinary infections in a population of the Toluca Valley, Mexico

Introduction

Escherichia coliis a bacterium that is part of the normal biota of the human being, but under certain conditions it can produce diseases such as gastrointestinal and urinary tract infections for which is the main responsible.Enterobacteriaceaesuch asEscherichiaare extended spectrum betalactamases (ESBL) producers, which makes their treatment difficult due to a high rate of resistance to antibiotics.

Methods

155 samples were collected from patients with suspected urinary tract infection without exclusion criteria such as age or gender. Automated equipment was used for the identification of the etiological agent and sensitivity tests. For the determination of ESBL, the double disc technique was used.

Results

35 strains ofEscherichia coliwere obtained, of which 45.72 % have ESBL, these strains show 100 % resistance to betalactams, as well as high resistance to quinolones and tetracycline ranging from 70 to 100 %. On the other hand, the resistance shown by non-ESBL producing strains is variable both for betalactams and for other antibiotics.

Conclusion

Treatment for urinary tract infections has become increasily difficult due to the high rate of resistance to antibiotics, mainly ESBL-producing strains such as theE colistrains in the present study. Where high rates of resistance to different antibiotics used in clinical practice are shown.
The technological innovation and tuberculosis elimination: a Technology Foresight study
Authors: Silva Roseli Monteiro da , Kristki Afranio , Cabral Bernardo Pereira , Oliveira Martha
Published: April 2023

In the present study, tuberculosis specialists were surveyed to rate the most effective strategies to eliminate TB as a public health problem by 2050. Then were investigated the most promising emerging technologies for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis (TB) expected to reach the market by 2035. This Technology Foresight study was specifically carried out by means of a web survey closed questionnaire, which was sent to 29,988 TB specialists worldwide. Of these, 2,657 answers were obtained and analysed. Respondents had demonstrated a high level of academic training (PhD), more than 10 years of professional experience, and a great diversity of both areas of knowledge and geographic reach. In the view of experts, the strategies with the greatest potential impact on epidemic TB were a) shorter time between diagnosis and start of treatment of DS and MDR-TB; b) strengthening tuberculosis control actions in the most vulnerable populations; c) shorter and less expensive regimens for drug resistant MDR/XDR-TB. Regarding the strategies with the highest potential for eliminating TB, our data suggests that the biomedical paradigm is the strongest among the specialists. The most promising technologies expected to reach the market by 2035 selected by the specialists were: (1) new drugs of known chemical classes or new chemical classes; (2) new point-of-care diagnostic tests for DS-TB, drug resistant or multidrug resistant (MDR/XDR)-TB and TB Infection (TBI). We contribute by discussing the most promising technologies and strategies for the elimination of TB in light of social determinants of health models and forecasting studies. We conclude by suggesting that the expected emerging technologies ongoing development will not suffice to end TB by 2050.
The Comparison of enhanced recovery after surgery versus traditional pathway in early-onset scoliosis surgery
Authors: Jian Keyi , Cui Jian , Li Chunbin , Liu Rong
Published: April 2023

The optimized enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathway in patients with early onset scoliosis (EOS) has not yet been comprehensively described. This study explored the efficacy and feasibility of an integral process of the ERAS pathway in posterior spinal fusion (PSF) surgery in EOS patients. A total of 70 patients were included in this study, with 35 patients receiving treatment using an ERAS pathway designed and implemented by a multidisciplinary team. The remaining 35 patients followed the traditional pathway (TP) perioperative care. Patient demographics, radiographic parameters, surgical data, and clinical information were collected and analyzed retrospectively. There were no significant differences in sex, height, weight, age, body mass index, preoperative hemoglobin level, fusion segments, number of screws, Cobb angle of the main curve, or surgical duration between the ERAS and TP groups. Regarding pain intensity, the estimated blood loss (EBL), first ambulation time, length of analgesic use, postoperative length of stay (LOS), drainage duration, drainage volume, and incidence of blood transfusion were significantly lower in the ERAS group than in the TP group. The ERAS pathway in EOS orthopedic surgery effectively reduces intraoperative bleeding, alleviates postoperative pain, reduces complications, accelerates recovery, and shortens hospital stays. Therefore, spinal surgeons should adopt the ERAS pathway in EOS surgery.
Synthetic lethality ofMycobacterium tuberculosisNADH dehydrogenases is due to impaired NADH oxidation
Authors: Xu Yuanyuan , Ehrt Sabine , Schnappinger Dirk , Beites Tiago
Published: April 2023

Type 2 NADH dehydrogenase (Ndh-2) is an oxidative phosphorylation enzyme discussed as a promising drug target in different pathogens, includingPlasmodium falciparumandMycobacterium tuberculosis(Mtb). To killMtb, Ndh-2 needs to be inactivated together with the alternative enzyme type 1 NADH dehydrogenase (Ndh-1), but the mechanism of this synthetic lethality remained unknown. Here, we provide insights into the biology of NADH dehydrogenases and a mechanistic explanation for Ndh-1 and Ndh-2 synthetic lethality inMtb. NADH dehydrogenases have two main functions: maintaining an appropriate NADH/NAD+ ratio by converting NADH into NAD+ and providing electrons to the respiratory chain. Heterologous expression of a water forming NADH oxidase (Nox), which catalyzes the oxidation of NADH, allows to distinguish between these two functions and show that Nox rescues Mtb from Ndh-1/Ndh-2 synthetic lethality, indicating that NADH oxidation is the essential function of NADH dehydrogenases forMtbviability. Quantification of intracellular levels of NADH, NAD, ATP, and oxygen consumption revealed that preventing NADH oxidation by Ndh-2 depletes NAD(H) and inhibits respiration. Finally, we show that Ndh-1/ Ndh-2 synthetic lethality can be achieved through chemical inhibition.

IMPORTANCE

In 2022, it is estimated that 10.6 million people fell ill, and 1.6 million people died from Tuberculosis (TB). Available treatment is lengthy and requires a multi-drug regimen, which calls for new strategies to cureMycobacterium tuberculosis(Mtb) infections more efficiently. We have previously shown that simultaneous inactivation of type 1 (Ndh-1) and type 2 (Ndh-2) NADH dehydrogenase killsMtb. NADH dehydrogenases play two main physiological roles: NADH oxidation and electron entry to the respiratory chain. Here, we show that this bactericidal effect is a consequence of impaired NADH oxidation. Importantly, we demonstrate that Ndh-1/Ndh-2 synthetic lethality can be achieved through simultaneous chemical inhibition, which could be exploited by TB drug development programs.
Coexistence of state, choice, and sensory integration coding in barrel cortex LII/III
Authors: Gardères Pierre-Marie , Gal Sébastien Le , Rousseau Charly , Mamane Alexandre , Ganea Dan Alin , Haiss Florent
Published: April 2023

During perceptually guided decisions, correlates of choice are found as upstream as in the primary sensory areas. However, how well these choice signals align with early sensory representations, a prerequisite for their interpretation as feedforward substrates of perception, remains an open question. We designed a two alternative forced choice task (2AFC) in which mice compared stimulation frequencies applied to two adjacent vibrissae. The optogenetic silencing of individual columns in the primary somatosensory cortex (wS1) resulted in predicted shifts of psychometric functions, demonstrating that perception depends on focal, early sensory representations. Functional imaging of layer II/III single neurons revealed sensory, choice and engagement coding. From trial to trial, these three varied substantially, but independently from one another. Thus, coding of sensory and non-sensory variables co-exist in orthogonal subspace of the population activity, suggesting that perceptual variability does not originate from wS1 but rather from state or choice fluctuations in downstream areas.
Citizen empowerment through smart surveillance: evidence from Indian smart cities
Authors: Khanna Preeti , Khanra Sayantan
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Citizens often perceive surveillance by government authorities as oppressive and, hence, demonstrate reluctance in value co-creation from such services. This study aims to investigate the challenges and benefits of citizen empowerment through technology-driven surveillance or “smart surveillance.”

Design/methodology/approach

Guided by Dynamic Capability theory, the authors conduct in-depth interviews with officers in-charge of surveillance in smart cities. Given the contemporary advancements, this approach allows a retrospective and real-time understanding of interviewees’ experiences with smart surveillance.

Findings

The authors develop five propositions for citizen empowerment through smart surveillance to summarize the findings of this study.

Research limitations/implications

This study advances the relevance of Dynamic Capability in public administration.

Practical implications

Smart city authorities and policymakers may leverage the insights provided in this study to design appropriate policies for smart surveillance.

Originality/value

The authors find that factors such as digital technology and infrastructure, information management, skill divide and perceived return on investment may influence citizen empowerment through smart surveillance.
The impact of online customer reviews on product iterative innovation
Authors: Tian Pingye , Yang Qing
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Online customer reviews is an important information resource for product innovation. This study aims to investigate the impact of online customer reviews on iterative innovation of software products and the moderating roles of product complexity in the process of online reviews influencing product iterative innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

To empirically test the hypotheses, this paper built a panel data of 500 software products from 2019 to 2021 and applied Poisson regression analysis.

Findings

Empirically results reveal that both sentiment and quantity of online customer reviews have positive effects on iteration innovation of software products. In addition, the authors find that product complexity negatively moderates the relationship between online reviews and iterative innovation.

Practical implications

This study suggests that firms can acquire valuable information from customers’ online reviews for product iterative innovation and improvement. However, for high-complexity products, it may be difficult for enterprises to obtain useful information for iterative innovation from online reviews. On the other hand, this study provides a reference for firms to choose more useful online reviews from the perspective of sentiment.

Originality/value

This paper provides a new finding that there is a positive relationship between online customer reviews and iterative innovation of software products. Moreover, the authors also provide a deeper understanding of how online customer reviews affects iterative innovation by examining the moderating roles of product complexity.
Disaster readiness assessment model using integrated statistical variance and proximity value index
Authors: Sutrisno Agung , Wuisang Cynthia Erlita Virgin , Yusupa Ade
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The regular occurrence of natural disasters elevates the need for an effective method to measure organizational preparedness in responding to the adverse impact of disasters. In this context, this paper presents a new decision support model to assess organizational disaster preparedness using both subjective and objective disaster preparedness criteria in a multi-criteria decision-making context.

Design/methodology/approach

The statistical variance method is integrated with the proximity value index (PVI) technique to determine priority scores in order to rank organizational disaster readiness.

Findings

The results of applying the integrated model developed herein enable decision-makers to make informed decisions for assigning priority ranking of organizational disaster preparedness in a simpler and more efficient way.

Research limitations/implications

Human resource is the most impacting criterion affecting hospital preparedness in undertaking action to cure disaster victims.

Practical implications

This paper offers an exemplar of a simple and efficient decision-making process considering the subjectivity associated with decision-making as well as the objectivity of data used for determining the priority ranking of organizational disaster preparedness.

Originality/value

Integrating statistical variance method with the PVI technique is novel and it has not been presented in previous studies. In fact, this study is the first to integrate both methods for selecting the priority ranking of organizational disaster preparedness.
Circular economy practices in SMEs: aligning model of green economic incentives and environmental commitment
Authors: Arsawan I. Wayan Edi , Koval Viktor , Suhartanto Dwi , Hariyanti Ni Kadek Dessy , Polishchuk Natalіia , Bondar Viktoriia
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The present study aims to examine the relationship between green economic incentives (GEIs) and environmental commitment (EC) as drivers of the circular economy (CE) practices in small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional study of 594 assistant managers and SME managers was used while data were analyzed through Smart PLS.

Findings

The results showed that GEIs positively affect the SMEs' EC and the CE practice model. Furthermore, EC is the mediator between GEIs and the three CE practices: internal environmental management, eco-design and corporate asset management and recovery (CAM&R).

Practical implications

The present study provided a basis for understanding the relevance of SMEs' CE practices and designing a strategic plan for its implementation. Also, it provides insight into that collaboration between triple helix (the government, SMEs and the community) is needed in increasing environmental awareness toward sustainability.

Originality/value

This study enhanced the natural resource-based view (NRBV), describing the mechanisms that view GEIs and EC as pollution prevention in CE practice.
Moving beyond the external face of accountability: constructing accountability for sustainability from within
Authors: Frostenson Magnus , Johnstone Leanne
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Motivated to know more about the internal means through which accountability for sustainability takes shape within organisations (in what ways and by whom), this paper aims to explore how accountability for sustainability is constructed within an organisation during a process of establishing a control system for sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper adopts a qualitative case study approach of a decentralised industrial group, operating mainly in Scandinavia, between 2017 and 2020. Both primary and secondary data are used (e.g. document analyses, semi-structured interviews, informal conversations and site visits) to inform the findings and analysis.

Findings

The findings reveal a multi-faceted path towards accountability for sustainability that involves several concerns and priorities at organisational and individual levels, resulting in a separate sustainability control systems within each subsidiary company. Although hierarchical structures for accountability exist, socialising accountability activities are needed to (further) mobilise sustainable accounts.

Practical implications

Successful sustainable control systems require employees making sense of formalised accountability instruments (e.g. policies and procedures) to establish their roles and responsibilities in organisations.

Social implications

This paper proposes socialisation processes as important for driving forward sustainability solutions.

Originality/value

This study elaborates on the internal accountability dynamic for the construction of sustainable accounts. Its novelty is built upon the interaction of hierarchical and socialising accountability forms as necessary for establishing a control system for sustainability. It furthermore illustrates the relationship between the external and internal pathways of accountability.
Tourism and natural disaster management: a systematic narrative review
Authors: Zhang Yachen , Moyle Brent , Dupré Karine , Lohmann Gui , Desha Cheryl , MacKenzie Iain
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This study aims to track and integrate past research concerning how tourism might improve natural disaster management, detect thematic research areas and develop an agenda for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a systematic literature review methodology, this research synthesises academic papers indexed in the Scopus, Web of Science and EBSCOhost (Hospitality & Tourism Complete) databases. A total of 34 articles published in peer-reviewed English journals were systematically selected for review and analysed using a thematic approach.

Findings

This review highlights a growing interest in the potential and value of tourism for disaster management. Eight key themes emerged in the review, including education and information communication about disasters; tourism facilities for disaster preparation; tourism resources in emergency conditions; livelihoods and economic recovery; disaster-related tourism attractions for recovery; destination re-branding and re-framing; community reinvigoration in tourism-driven disaster recovery; and special-interest tourism for recovery. A natural disaster management schematic empowered by tourism highlights tourism industry opportunities to positively impact the entire disaster management process.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this work offers the first systematic review of the research on how tourism might support multiple stages of natural disaster management. This study thus complements and enriches extant literature reviews on the nexus between tourism and disaster management. The framework presents timely guidelines for planners, developers and other key stakeholders to leverage tourism initiatives to improve disaster management outcomes.
Blast vibration prediction
Authors: Trabi Bernd , Bleibinhaus Florian
Published: April 2023

Predicting the peak ground velocity of vibrations is essential to blast mining operations in order to design the charge weights so as not to exceed certain thresholds that prevent damage to buildings and other infrastructure. The problem is usually marred by a large scatter of observed peak ground velocity due to unknown complexities of seismic wave propagation. Classic peak ground velocity prediction methods employ empirical formulas, the most widespread being the scaled distance approach that has the least parameters to calibrate and works for a single sensor. In this study, we used data from 55 mining production blasts recorded by an array of 81 seismic sensors in an open pit iron ore mine in Austria. We evaluated and compared different methods for predicting peak ground velocity. The large data set provides sufficient constraint to independently resolve the charge weight exponent c, the radial decay constant b and local site factors. The c/b‐ratio of 0.2 that we find for our site is far smaller than that implied by the US Bureau of Mining scaled distance method, and peak ground velocity predictions made with the latter approach are significantly worse. This highlights the importance of using site‐specific data to calibrate predictive models and suggests that relying on arbitrary priors may lead to inaccurate predictions. For the charge weight exponent, we find a value of 0.5 which we interpret as expression of the physical relationship among charge weight, energy and amplitude, suggesting that this may be a global, site‐independent, value. This result has probable a broader relevance beyond our specific location and could improve prediction outcomes on other sites.
Uncertainty of spatial averages and totals of natural resource maps
Authors: Wadoux Alexandre M. J.‐C. , Heuvelink Gerard B. M.
Published: April 2023

Global, continental and regional maps of concentrations, stocks and fluxes of natural resources provide baseline data to assess how ecosystems respond to human disturbance and global warming. They are also used as input to numerous modelling efforts. But these maps suffer from multiple error sources and, hence, it is good practice to report estimates of the associated map uncertainty so that users can evaluate their fitness for use.

We explain why quantification of uncertainty of spatial aggregates is more complex than uncertainty quantification at point support because it must account for spatial autocorrelation of the map errors. Unfortunately, this is not done in a number of recent high‐profile studies. We describe how spatial autocorrelation of map errors can be accounted for with block kriging, a method that requires geostatistical expertise. Next, we propose a new, model‐based approach that avoids the numerical complexity of block kriging and is feasible for large‐scale studies where maps are typically made using machine learning. Our approach relies on Monte Carlo integration to derive the uncertainty of the spatial average or total from point support prediction errors. We account for spatial autocorrelation of the map error by geostatistical modelling of the standardized map error.

We show that the uncertainty strongly depends on the spatial autocorrelation of the map errors. In a first case study, we used block kriging to show that the uncertainty of the predicted topsoil organic carbon in France decreases when the support increases. In a second case study, we estimated the uncertainty of spatial aggregates of a machine learning map of the above‐ground biomass in Western Africa using Monte Carlo integration. We found that this uncertainty was small because of the weak spatial autocorrelation of the standardized map errors.

We present a tool to get realistic estimates of the uncertainty of spatial averages and totals of natural resource maps. The method presented in this paper is essential for parties that need to evaluate whether differences in aggregated environmental variables or natural resources between regions or over time are statistically significant.
Lycopene intake and the risk of erectile dysfunction in US adults: NHANES 2001–2004
Authors: Gao Yue , Liu Chunhui , Lu Xun , Lu Kai , Zhang Lei , Mao Weipu , Pan Kehao , Liang Zichun , Sun Chao , Chen Ming
Published: April 2023

Background

Erectile dysfunction is a condition with a high incidence among adult men. Lycopene has been shown to lower blood glucose and reduce weight in diabetic patients because of its antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties. However, the association between lycopene and the incidence of erectile dysfunction is unclear.

Objective

The aim of this study was to examine the dietary lycopene intake and its association with erectile dysfunction risk in the US population.

Materials and methods

We investigated the lycopene intake of adult participants with complete information on clinical variables from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey between 2001 and 2004. Dose–response curve analysis was applied to explore the association between lycopene intake and erectile dysfunction. Logistic regression models were used to adjust for confounders. Different ethnicities, body mass index level, hypertension status, diabetes status, and smoking status were analyzed as subgroups. Propensity score matching was employed to eliminate the effects of potential confounders to confirm the reliability of the results.

Results

A total of 3265 participants with lycopene consumption data were included in our study, including 931 individuals with erectile dysfunction and 2334 without erectile dysfunction during National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2001–2004. We found more consumption of lycopene in the non‐erectile dysfunction group than in the erectile dysfunction group. Dose–response curve analysis revealed a significant negative association between lycopene intake and erectile dysfunction prevalence. After adjusting for age, race, cigarette smoking, body mass index, annual family income, education, physical activity, hypertension, diabetes, depression, and testosterone level, we found that increased lycopene intake reduced the odds ratio of erectile dysfunction. Low lycopene intake was positively related to erectile dysfunction in almost all subgroups, especially in Mexican American, non‐Hispanic white, body mass index <25, hypertension positive, diabetes mellitus negative, and smoke negative. Furthermore, the results were confirmed in the 1:1 matched group.

Conclusion

Our national data suggest that lower dietary lycopene intake is positively associated with an increased risk of erectile dysfunction in US men.
Review article: Available modalities for screening and imaging diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma—Current gaps and challenges
Authors: Barnard Giustini Abbey , Ioannou George N. , Sirlin Claude , Loomba Rohit
Published: April 2023

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) incidence and mortality continue to rise worldwide. Society guidelines recommend HCC screening for patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) or cirrhosis. Unfortunately, HCC screening rates remain relatively low, and the performance characteristics of current screening modalities are suboptimal.

Aim

The aim of the study was to discuss the current state of HCC screening and imaging diagnosis utilising standard and emerging imaging modalities in addition to outlining areas of need and ongoing study.

Methods

A review of the field was performed combining literature searches and expert opinion.

Results

The development of the Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI‐RADS version 2018) algorithms have advanced and standardised the imaging diagnosis of HCC. While guidelines recommend US for HCC screening, the sensitivity of ultrasound is highly variable for the detection of early‐stage HCC with sensitivity reports ranging from 40% to 80%. Biomarker‐based scores such as GALAD and alternative imaging modalities such as abbreviated MRI are promising tools to improve HCC early detection. Patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and patients hepatitis C (HCV) who have achieved sustained virologic response (SVR) can present a clinical dilemma regarding the need for HCC screening. Biomarkers and elastography can aid in identification of individuals at high risk for HCC in these populations.

Conclusions

The LI‐RADS system has standardised the imaging interpretation and diagnosis of HCC. Work remains regarding screening in special populations and optimization of screening modalities.
Vitamin D and SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Feentved Ødum Sofie‐Louise , Kongsbak‐Wismann Martin
Published: April 2023

The single‐stranded RNA virus, SARS‐CoV‐2, causing the COVID‐19 pandemic, has severely impacted daily life globally. It has been suggested to supplement the general population with vitamin D to reduce the impact of COVID‐19. Nevertheless, no clear consensus can be found as to whether vitamin D affects COVID‐19 disease burden. Some studies found that vitamin D levels and/or vitamin D supplementation alleviated COVID‐19 disease severity and mortality. Contrarily, other studies found no such effects of vitamin D. To understand this lack of consensus, it is relevant to investigate molecular studies of the vitamin D receptor (VDR), as such studies might explain apparent controversies. We have investigated recent studies of how transcriptional regulation by the VDR affects the immune response against SARS‐CoV‐2. One study found that cells from severe COVID‐19 patients displayed a dysregulated vitamin D response. Contrarily, another study observed a normal immune response towards SARS‐CoV‐2 in a patient with a non‐functional VDR. These observations indicate that hypovitaminosis D is not a prerequisite for an efficient immune response against SARS‐CoV‐2 and therefore not a driving factor for developing severe COVID‐19. However, should a patient develop severe COVID‐19, vitamin D seems to be beneficial potentially by dampening the cytokine storm.
Baseline circulating tumour DNA and total metabolic tumour volume as early outcome predictors in aggressive large B‐cell lymphoma. A real‐world 112‐patient cohort
Authors: Le Goff Enora , Blanc‐Durand Paul , Roulin Louise , Lafont Charlotte , Loyaux Romain , MBoumbae Diana‐Laure , Benmaad Ichrafe , Claudel Alexis , Poullot Elsa , Robe Cyrielle , Gricourt Guillaume , Aissat Abdelrazak , Copie‐Bergman Christiane , Lemonnier François , Gaulard Philippe , Itti Emmanuel , Haioun Corinne , Delfau‐Larue Marie‐Helene
Published: April 2023

Approximately 20%–50% of patients with large B‐cell lymphoma (LBCL) experience poor outcomes. We aimed to evaluate the combined prognostic value of circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) and total metabolic tumour volume (TMTV) in LBCL. This observational single‐centre study included 112 newly diagnosed LBCL patients, receiving R‐CHOP/R‐CHOP‐like chemotherapies. CtDNA load was calculated following next‐generation sequencing of cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) using a targeted 40‐gene lymphopanel. TMTV was measured using a fully automated artificial intelligence‐based method for lymphoma lesion segmentation. CtDNA was detected in cfDNA samples from 95 patients with a median concentration of 3.15 log haploid genome equivalents per mL. TMTV measurements were available for 102 patients. The median TMTV was 501 mL. High ctDNA load (>3.57 log hGE/mL) or high TMTV (>200 mL) were associated with shorter 1‐year PFS (44% vs. 83%, p < 0.001 and 64% vs. 97%, p = 0.002, respectively). When combined, three prognostic groups were identified. The shortest PFS was observed when both TMTV and ctDNA load were high (p < 0.001). Even with a short follow up, combining ctDNA load with TMTV improved the risk stratification of patients with aggressive LBCL. In the near future, very high‐risk patients could benefit from CAR T‐cell therapy or bispecific antibodies as first‐line treatments.
Jack of fewer trades: Evolution of specialization in research
Authors: Kim Jinyoung , Koh Kanghyock
Published: April 2023

It is widely maintained that scientists have become increasingly specialized with a narrow range of expertise ever since the era of “Renaissance men.” However, evidence on scientists' specialization is rather anecdotal. We provide large‐scale evidence to address whether younger generations of inventors have indeed become more specialized, using a unique panel data set of Korean inventors. We also investigate how the degree of specialization evolves over an inventor's research career and how far an inventor switches his or her field of expertise in the technology space over a career.
Two decades of land cover change and forest fragmentation in Liberia: Consequences for the contribution of nature to people
Authors: de Sousa Celio , Fatoyinbo Lola , Honzák Miroslav , Wright Timothy Max , Murillo Sandoval Paulo Jose , Whapoe Zargou Elijah , Yonmah Jerry , Olatunji Emmanuel Temitope , Garteh Jerry , Stovall Atticus , Neigh Christopher S. R. , Portela Rosimeiry , Gaddis Keith D. , Larsen Trond , Juhn Daniel
Published: April 2023

The Guinean forests of West Africa have been identified as a global biodiversity hotspot due to its exceptional concentrations of endemic species and exceptional loss of habitats. The majority of what remains of the Guinean forests lies within Liberia, a country whose share of total wealth is nearly equally distributed into human and natural capital. The Liberian government seeks a more inclusive development agenda that forges a path for improved human capital while sustainably managing its natural capital wealth, which requires consistent data on land cover change and forest disturbance over time. To address this need, Landsat data were used to map and quantify land cover change and forest fragmentation in Liberia between 2000 and 2018. In addition, LiDAR data from the Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation (GEDI) mission were applied to assess the integrity of forest remnants. Between 2000 and 2018, only 1% of all forest cover classes (i.e., dense/primary, open/secondary and sparse/degraded) were converted into non‐forest classes, with the most observed change being between these three forest classes. During the study period, 27% of the dense/primary forest class transitioned to either the open/secondary or sparse/degraded canopy classes through consistent fragmentation along the edges of the last large remaining blocks of dense/primary forest located in the north‐west and south‐east of Liberia and more than 14% of dense/primary forest areas identified in previous studies as “essential natural capital” for either biodiversity, forest carbon storage or provision of freshwater ecosystem services were degraded. The 2018 GEDI‐based measurements show that the overall average height of dense/primary forest decreases by 24% and 48%, and canopy closure decreases by 33% and 59%, when transitioned to the open/secondary and sparse/degraded classes, respectively. The information derived from this analysis will be critical for informing the development of new policies and actions, leading to more sustainable forest management in Liberia.
Endoscopic transpapillary gallbladder drainage with “hooking technique” using a rotatable sphincterotome
Authors: Koizumi Kazuya , Masuda Sakue , Shionoya Kento
Published: April 2023

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Promises and limits of an agency perspective in evolutionary developmental biology
Authors: Nadolski Erica M. , Moczek Armin P.
Published: April 2023

An agent‐based perspective in the study of complex systems is well established in diverse disciplines, yet is only beginning to be applied to evolutionary developmental biology. In this essay, we begin by defining agency and associated terminology formally. We then explore the assumptions and predictions of an agency perspective, apply these to select processes and key concept areas relevant to practitioners of evolutionary developmental biology, and consider the potential epistemic roles that an agency perspective might play in evo devo. Throughout, we discuss evidence supportive of agential dynamics in biological systems relevant to evo devo and explore where agency thinking may enrich the explanatory reach of research efforts in evolutionary developmental biology.