bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cyclin D3 deficiency promotes a slower, more oxidative skeletal muscle phenotype and ameliorates pathophysiology in the mdx mouse model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Bonato Agnese , Raparelli Giada , Luvisetto Siro , Forconi Flavia , Cosentino Marianna , Tirone Felice , Rizzuto Emanuele , Caruso Maurizia
Published: June 2023

We previously reported that cyclin D3‐null mice display a shift toward the slow, oxidative phenotype in skeletal muscle, improved exercise endurance, and increased energy expenditure. Here, we explored the role of cyclin D3 in the physiologic response of skeletal muscle to external stimuli and in a model of muscle degenerative disease. We show that cyclin D3‐null mice exhibit a further transition from glycolytic to oxidative muscle fiber type in response to voluntary exercise and an improved response to fasting. Since fast glycolytic fibers are known to be more susceptible to degeneration in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), we examined the effects of cyclin D3 inactivation on skeletal muscle phenotype in the mdx mouse model of DMD. Compared with control mdx mice, cyclin D3‐deficient mdx mice display a higher proportion of slower and more oxidative myofibers, reduced muscle degenerative/regenerative processes, and reduced myofiber size variability, indicating an attenuation of dystrophic histopathology. Furthermore, mdx muscles lacking cyclin D3 exhibit reduced fatigability during repeated electrical stimulations. Notably, cyclin D3‐null mdx mice show enhanced performance during recurrent trials of endurance treadmill exercise, and post‐exercise muscle damage results decreased while the regenerative capacity is boosted. In addition, muscles from exercised cyclin D3‐deficient mdx mice display increased oxidative capacity and increased mRNA expression of genes involved in the regulation of oxidative metabolism and the response to oxidative stress. Altogether, our findings indicate that depletion of cyclin D3 confers benefits to dystrophic muscle, suggesting that cyclin D3 inhibition may represent a promising therapeutic strategy against DMD.
Comparison of Noninvasive Mechanical Ventilation With High-Flow Nasal Cannula, Face-Mask, and Helmet in Hypoxemic Respiratory Failure in Patients With COVID-19: A Randomized Controlled Trial*
Authors: Al Hashim Abdul Hakeem , Al Reesi Abdullah , Al Lawati Nabil M. , Burad Jyoti , Al Khabori Murtadha , Chandwani Juhi , Al Lawati Redha , Al Masroori Yahya , Al Balushi Abdul Aziz , Al Masroori Salim , Al Siyabi Khalsa , Al Lawati Fatema , Ahmed Faroug Yousif Nimer , Al Busaidy Merah , Al Huraizi Aisha , Al Jufaili Mahmood , Al Zaabi Jalila , Varghese Jerin Treesa , Al Harthi Ruqaya , Sebastian Kingsly Prabhakaran , Al Abri Fahad Hamed , Al Aghbari Jamal , Al Mubaihsi Saif , Al Lawati Adil , Al Busaidi Mujahid , Foti Giuseppe
Published: June 2023

OBJECTIVES:

For COVID-19-related respiratory failure, noninvasive respiratory assistance via a high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC), helmet, and face-mask noninvasive ventilation is used. However, which of these options is most effective is yet to be determined. This study aimed to compare the three techniques of noninvasive respiratory support and to determine the superior technique.

DESIGN:

A randomized control trial with permuted block randomization of nine cases per block for each parallel, open-labeled arm.

SETTING AND PATIENTS:

Adult patients with COVID-19 with a Pao
2/Fio
2 ratio of less than 300, admitted between February 4, 2021, and August 9, 2021, to three tertiary centers in Oman, were studied.

INTERVENTIONS:

This study included three interventions: HFNC (n = 47), helmet continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP; n = 52), and face-mask CPAP (n = 52).

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS:

The endotracheal intubation rate and mortality at 28 and 90 days were measured as the primary and secondary outcomes, respectively. Of the 159 randomized patients, 151 were analyzed. The median age was 52 years, and 74% were men. The endotracheal intubation rates were 44%, 45%, and 46% (p = 0.99), and the median intubation times were 7.0, 5.5, and 4.5 days (p = 0.11) in the HFNC, face-mask CPAP, and helmet CPAP, respectively. In comparison to face-mask CPAP, the relative risk of intubation was 0.97 (95% CI, 0.63–1.49) for HFNC and 1.0 (95% CI 0.66–1.51) for helmet CPAP. The mortality rates were 23%, 32%, and 38% at 28 days (p = 0.24) and 43%, 38%, and 40% (p = 0.89) at 90 days for HFNC, face-mask CPAP, and helmet CPAP, respectively. The trial was stopped prematurely because of a decline in cases.

CONCLUSIONS:

This exploratory trial found no difference in intubation rate and mortality among the three intervention groups for the COVID-19 patients with hypoxemic respiratory failure; however, more evidence is needed to confirm these findings as the trial was aborted prematurely.
Planned Out-of-Hospital Birth as a Risk Factor for Nonreceipt of Hepatitis B Immunization
Authors: Higgins David M. , Haynes Allison L. , Jensen Julia C. , O’Leary Sean T. , Moss Angela , Calonge Ned
Published: June 2023

Background:

The hepatitis B vaccine (HBV) is recommended at birth to prevent perinatal hepatitis B transmission; however, many newborns still do not receive HBV. The extent to which planned out-of-hospital births, which have increased over the past decade, are associated with nonreceipt of the HBV birth dose is unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine whether a planned out-of-hospital birth location is associated with the nonreceipt of the HBV birth dose.

Methods:

We performed a retrospective cohort study of all births from 2007 to 2019 recorded in the Colorado birth registry. χ
2 analyses were used to compare maternal demographics by birth location. Univariate and multiple logistic regression were used to evaluate the association of birth location with nonreceipt of the HBV birth dose.

Results:

In total 1.5% of neonates born in freestanding birth centers and 0.1% of neonates born at a planned home birth received HBV compared to 76.3% of neonates born in a hospital location. After adjusting for confounders, this translated to a large increase in the odds of not receiving HBV compared to in-hospital births [freestanding birth center (aodds ratio (aOR): 172.98, 95% confidence interval (CI): 136.98–219.88); planned home birth (aOR: 502.05, 95% CI: 363.04–694.29)]. Additionally, older maternal age, White/non-Hispanic race and ethnicity, higher income, and private or no insurance were associated with nonreceipt of the HBV birth dose.

Conclusions:

Planned out-of-hospital birth is a risk factor for nonreceipt of the HBV birth dose. As births in these locations become more common, targeted policies and education are warranted.
Incidence and Risk Factors for Antibiotic-associated Diarrhea Among Hospitalized Children
Authors: Kaya Gülay , Usta Deniz , Sag Elif , Aydin ZG Gayretli , Buruk Celal Kurtulus , Ozkaya Esra , Aydin Faruk , Cakir Murat
Published: June 2023

Background:

We aimed to evaluate the incidence, clinical findings, and risk factors of antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) in hospitalized children without known comorbid diseases.

Methods:

All hospitalized children during the 1-year period that fulfilled the inclusion criteria were included in this study (n = 358). AAD was defined as; ≥2 loose or watery stools per day for a minimum of 24 hours during antibiotic treatment caused by Clostridioides difficile or negative stool tests for identifiable infectious agents.

Results:

During hospitalization, diarrhea developed in 32 (8.93%) of the 358 patients. C. difficile toxin B was positive for 1 case. No infectious agents were detected in 21 patients. Overall, AAD was observed in 22 patients (6.14%, 95% CI: 4.09–9.13). Male sex (P = 0.027, OR: 3.36), age between 1 month and <3 years (P = 0.01, OR: 4.23), ibuprofen use (P = 0.044, OR: 2.63) and late administration of antibiotics (P = 0.001, OR: 9.5) were associated with the development of AAD.

Conclusions:

The incidence of AAD is low among hospitalized children without comorbid diseases, and most diarrheal episodes are mild and self-limiting. The use of probiotics in this patient group may be limited to certain specific situations.
Discrepancies in Management of Congenital Cytomegalovirus in Preterm Infants: An International Survey
Authors: Petrunin Yury , Payne Helen , Blázquez-Gamero Daniel , Buxmann Horst , Drysdale Simon B. , Gkentzi Despoina , Papaevangelou Vana , Lyall Hermione
Published: June 2023

We performed an international survey regarding management of infants with congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) born at less than 32 weeks gestation or with birth weight under 1500 g. Replies from 51 level 3 neonatal intensive care units across 13 countries demonstrated striking discrepancies in screening practices, testing for cCMV, further investigations of confirmed cases, indications for initiation, and duration of treatment.
Association between physiotherapy utilization and medical healthcare utilization and costs in adults with back pain from Ontario, Canada: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Lu Mindy , Wong Jessica J. , Côté Pierre , Watson Tristan , Rosella Laura C
Published: June 2023

This study examined the association between physiotherapy utilization and subsequent medical healthcare utilization and costs in a population-based sample of adults with back pain in Ontario. We conducted a population-based cohort study of Ontario respondents with back pain (≥18 years) of the Canadian Community Health Survey 2003 to 2010 cycles, linked to health administrative data up to 2018. Physiotherapy utilization was defined as self-reported consultation with a physiotherapist in the past 12 months. A propensity score–matched cohort was conducted to match adults with and without physiotherapy utilization, accounting for potential confounders. We assessed associations using negative-binomial and linear (log-transformed) regression to evaluate outcomes of healthcare utilization (back pain–specific and all-cause) and costs, respectively, at 1- and 5-year follow-up. There were 4343 pairs of matched respondents. Compared with those who did not receive physiotherapy, adults who received physiotherapy were more likely to have back pain–specific physician visits (RRwomen (5years) = 1.48, 95% CI 1.24-1.75; RRmen (5years) = 1.42, 95% CI 1.10-1.84). Women who received physiotherapy had 1.11 times the rate of all-cause physician visits (RR1year = 1.11, 95% CI 1.02-1.20), and men who received physiotherapy had 0.84 times the rate of all-cause hospitalizations (RR5years = 0.84, 95% CI 0.71-0.99) than those who did not. There was no association between physiotherapy utilization and healthcare costs. Adults with back pain who received physiotherapy are more likely to have back pain–specific physician visits up to 5-year follow-up than those who did not. Physiotherapy utilization is linked to some sex-based differences in all-cause healthcare utilization but not differences in costs. Findings inform interprofessional collaboration and allied healthcare delivery for back pain in Ontario.
Silica Exposure and Cardiovascular, Cerebrovascular, and Respiratory Morbidity in a Cohort of Male Swedish Iron Foundry Workers
Authors: Andersson Lena , Hedbrant Alexander , Bryngelsson Ing-Liss , Vihlborg Per , Särndahl Eva , Westberg Håkan
Published: June 2023

Objective

We present quantitative exposure-response data on silica exposure in male Swedish iron foundry workers for cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and respiratory morbidity.

Methods

This research is a cohort study of 2063 male Swedish iron foundry workers. From the Swedish National Patient Registers, data on morbidity incidence were retrieved. A historical measurement database of 1667 respirable silica exposure measurements from 10 Swedish iron foundries was used to calculate the cumulative exposure dose for each worker.

Results

Increased morbidity risk for the whole group of foundry workers was determined for ischemic heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchitis, and pneumonia. In addition, an increased risk for COPD at cumulative silica exposures ranging from 0.11 to 0.84 mg/m3 year is presented.

Conclusions

The study presents a significantly increased COPD risk at cumulative silica exposures below the Swedish occupational exposure limit.
A Comparison of the Impact of COVID-19–Related Restrictions on Physical Activity Among Public Employees
Authors: Maier Philipp , Morath Oliver , Barsch Friedrich , Krumnau Oliver , Steinmann Daniel , Deibert Peter
Published: June 2023

Objectives

This article compares the impact of COVID-19–related restrictions on the level of physical activity, performed by public servants, in April and November 2020.

Methods

The survey examined the amount (in minutes per week) and the energy expenditure (in metabolic equivalent of task in minutes per week [METmin/week]) of physical activity for both before and during contact restrictions in April and November 2020, respectively.

Results

Especially for sports activity difference was determined by the medians before (April/November: median [Mdn] = 180.0 min/wk) and during (April: Mdn = 130 minutes, November: Mdn = 60 min/wk) restrictions (P < 0.05).

Also for energy consumption (METmin/wk), the medians before and during the contact restrictions declined for both periods.

Conclusions

Measures against the coronavirus have led to a reduction in activity levels among public employees, regardless of their work environment. The decrease in participation in sport activities seemed to be even more noticeable within the second restriction period.
Recent Training Trends in Independent Plastic Surgery Graduates
Authors: Lee Clara J. , Azimi Roxana , Willey Brea , Gosman Amanda , Reid Chris M.
Published: June 2023

Background

Among independent plastic surgery graduates, most have general surgery training, but the utility of American Board of Surgery (ABS) certification in plastic surgery practice is unclear. We elucidated attitudes and trends of ABS certification in American Board of Plastic Surgery diplomates.

Methods

American Board of Plastic Surgery diplomates from 2018 to 2020 were reviewed to identify independent plastic surgery graduates. These graduates were anonymously surveyed regarding demographics, employment, fellowships, practices, and attitudes toward ABS certification.

Results

Of 568 American Board of Plastic Surgery diplomates, 223 independent graduates (39%) were identified. Sixty-eight percent of these graduates were ABS certified, 80% of whom achieved certification during the beginning of plastic and reconstructive surgery training; 41% were fellowship trained. About half are in private practice, 25% are part of a hospital group, and 17% work in universities. Of 223 independent graduates, 54 (24.4%) completed the survey; 85.2% reported ABS certification, and 21.7% perform general surgery procedures. Most stated that general surgery training was valuable to their career, regardless of certification. Most agreed that ABS certification benefited their career; 63% plan to recertify. Of those surveyed, 59.3% had completed a plastic surgery fellowship. Non–fellowship-trained surgeons felt more strongly that ABS certification was beneficial (P = 0.014) and valued by patients (P = 0.026) compared with fellowship-trained surgeons.

Conclusions

American Board of Surgery certification is a priority to independent plastic surgery trainees, despite potential disruption to training, personal costs, and unclear utility to their practice. Although few perform general surgery procedures, most plan to recertify. Future studies should investigate recertification among surgeons later in their careers and the impacts of dual board certification on plastic surgery practice.
The Geographical Impact of Plastic Surgery Residency to Fellowship and Residency/Fellowship to First Job Placement
Authors: Maheta Bhagvat , Eggert Gina R. , Thawanyarat Kometh , Patel Ashraf A. , Sheckter Clifford C. , Nazerali Rahim
Published: June 2023

Introduction

The location of trainees' plastic surgery residency or fellowship has implications on their subsequent careers, which can inform future trainees and faculty decisions, and may affect access to care nationwide. This study explores historic geographic trends of the location where trainees complete residency or fellowship and where they pursue a fellowship program or first job.

Methods

Graduates from US integrated plastic surgery residency or fellowship programs from 2015 to 2021 were identified along with their proximity to fellowship or first job. Location was categorized based on whether the graduate's fellowship/first job location to residency/fellowship was within 100 miles, the same state, the same geographic region, the United States, or international. A χ2 value was calculated to determine the significance of relative geographical location after training.

Results

Three hundred sixty-five graduates that attended fellowship were included, representing 76.5% (65/85) of integrated plastic surgery residency programs. There were 47.7% (n = 174) that stayed within the same geographic region and 3.6% (n = 13) pursued training internationally. The location of the residency or fellowship program appears to have an influence on the location of the graduate's fellowship or first job.

Conclusion

Graduates who completed integrated residency or fellowship in a certain geographic location were more likely to stay in that area for their fellowship or first job. This may be explained by graduates continuing training with their original program, the established network, and personal factors such as family and friends.
Repair of Finger Pulp Defect and Sensory Reconstruction Using Reverse Homodigital Artery Island Flap With Palmar Cutaneous Branches of the Proper Digital Nerve
Authors: Wang Shuang , Yuan Chaoqun , Ding Wenqiang , Shen Haobo , Gu Jiaxiang
Published: June 2023

Objective

To illustrate the clinical outcomes of the reverse digital proper artery island flap with anastomosing the palmar cutaneous branches of the proper digital nerve for the reconstruction of finger pulp defects.

Methods

From December 2007 to December 2017, a total of 20 patients with finger pulp defects were treated with reverse digital proper artery island flap for innervated construction. Functional outcomes, aesthetic appearance, and complications were evaluated. Functional outcomes were assessed according to range of motion, sensory grade (S0–S4), static 2-point discrimination, Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test, and Cold Intolerance Severity Score. Aesthetic appearance was evaluated according to the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire.

Results

All flaps survived completely without any complications, and all patients were followed up for at least 12 months. The average static 2-point discrimination, Semmes-Weinstein monofilament, and Cold Intolerance Severity Score results of the injured fingers were 6.35 mm (range, 5–8 mm), 3.64 (range, 2.83–4.17), and 19 (range, 8–24), respectively. All patients achieved recovery in sensation from S3+ to S4. The active ranges of motion of the metacarpophalangeal, proximal interphalangeal, and distal interphalangeal joints of the affected fingers were satisfactory. Based on the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire, 11 patients were strongly satisfied, and 9 were satisfied with the appearance of the injured finger.

Conclusions

The reverse digital proper artery island flap with anastomosing the palmar cutaneous branches of the proper digital nerve is an effective and reliable alternative for the reconstruction of finger pulp defect. In the recovery of sensation, this flap leads to satisfactory effects.
Cellular Immunobiology and Molecular Mechanisms in Alloimmunity—Pathways of Immunosuppression
Authors: Schrezenmeier Eva , Dörner Thomas , Halleck Fabian , Budde Klemens
Published: June 2023

Current maintenance immunosuppression commonly comprises a synergistic combination of tacrolimus as calcineurin inhibitor (CNI), mycophenolic acid, and glucocorticoids. Therapy is often individualized by steroid withdrawal or addition of belatacept or inhibitors of the mechanistic target of rapamycin. This review provides a comprehensive overview of their mode of action, focusing on the cellular immune system. The main pharmacological action of CNIs is suppression of the interleukin-2 pathway that leads to inhibition of T cell activation. Mycophenolic acid inhibits the purine pathway and subsequently diminishes T and B cell proliferation but also exerts a variety of effects on almost all immune cells, including inhibition of plasma cell activity. Glucocorticoids exert complex regulation via genomic and nongenomic mechanisms, acting mainly by downregulating proinflammatory cytokine signatures and cell signaling. Belatacept is potent in inhibiting B/T cell interaction, preventing formation of antibodies; however, it lacks the potency of CNIs in preventing T cell–mediated rejections. Mechanistic target of rapamycin inhibitors have strong antiproliferative activity on all cell types interfering with multiple metabolic pathways, partly explaining poor tolerability, whereas their superior effector T cell function might explain their benefits in the case of viral infections. Over the past decades, clinical and experimental studies provided a good overview on the underlying mechanisms of immunosuppressants. However, more data are needed to delineate the interaction between innate and adaptive immunity to better achieve tolerance and control of rejection. A better and more comprehensive understanding of the mechanistic reasons for failure of immunosuppressants, including individual risk/benefit assessments, may permit improved patient stratification.
Non typhoidal salmonella causing urinary tract infection in a young male with renal calculi and phimosis – Necessity for serotype identification
Authors: Sriramajayam Lavanya , Boopathy Vijayaraghavan Krishna Mohan , Appalaraju Boppe
Published: June 2023

Introduction:
Non typhoidal Salmonella (NTS) causes urinary tract infections infrequently and are usually associated with presence of genitourinary abnormalities.
Case Presentation:
We report a case of immunocompetant male in his early 20s with phimosis presented with history of dysuria and burning micturition for 4 months. A renal ultrasonography showed presence of bilateral intrarenal calculi. Urine analysis revealed presence of non typhoidal Salmonella. Automated identification systems performed poorly in identification of serotype. On serotyping, it was identified as Salmonella enteritidis in the referral centre. The patient was managed with oral antibiotics.
Conclusion:
This report highlights the issues inaccurate identification of NTS even with advanced automated systems and early initiation of therapy based on the knowledge of local susceptibility patterns. Furthermore, UTI in immunocompetent individuals by non typhoidal salmonellae should always be investigated further to rule out genitourinary abnormalities and appropriate antibiotics must be started to avoid chronicity and complications.
Gene regulatory programs in the life history ofSalpingoeca rosetta
Authors: Fumagalli Maria Rita , Zapperi Stefano , La Porta Caterina AM
Published: June 2023

The choanoflagellateSalpingoeca rosettacan differentiate into at least five morphologically and behaviorally distinct cell types during its lifetime, going from individual motile cells to linear and rosette-shaped colonies. Due to the capability to form colonies and its close relationship with Metazoa, this organism is considered a model for studying multicellular evolution. The gene regulatory programs underlying these transformations are, however, unknown. Here we analyze transcriptomic data obtained fromSalpingoeca rosettain different states to identify a core of genes associated with the formation of multicellular colonies. We then compare the results with other organisms which display simple forms of multicellularity, highlighting commonalities and differences.
Alteration of actin cytoskeletal organisation in fetal akinesia deformation sequence
Authors: Jühlen Ramona , Martinelli Valérie , Rencurel Chantal , Fahrenkrog Birthe
Published: June 2023

Fetal akinesia deformation sequence (FADS) represents the severest form of congenital myasthenic syndrome (CMS), a diverse group of inherited disorders characterised by impaired neuromuscular transmission. Most CMS originate from defects in the muscle nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, but the underlying molecular pathogenesis is only poorly understood. Here we show that RNAi-mediated silencing of FADS-related proteins rapsyn and NUP88 in foetal fibroblasts alters organisation of the actin cytoskeleton. We show that fibroblasts from two independent FADS individuals have enhanced and shorter actin stress fibre bundles, alongside with an increased number and size of focal adhesions, with an otherwise normal overall connectivity and integrity of the actin-myosin cytoskeleton network. By proximity ligation assays and bimolecular fluorescence complementation, we show that rapsyn and NUP88 localise nearby adhesion plaques and that they interact with the focal adhesion protein paxillin. Based on these findings we propose that a respective deficiency in rapsyn and NUP88 in FADS alters the regulation of actin dynamics at focal adhesions, and thereby may also plausibly dictate myofibril organisation and contraction in skeletal muscle of FADS individuals.
De novodesign of highly selective miniprotein inhibitors of integrins αvβ6 and αvβ8
Authors: Roy Anindya , Shi Lei , Chang Ashley , Dong Xianchi , Fernandez Andres , Kraft John C. , Li Jing , Le Viet Q. , Winegar Rebecca Viazzo , Cherf Gerald Maxwell , Slocum Dean , Poulson P. Daniel , Casper Garrett E. , Vallecillo-Zúniga Mary L. , Valdoz Jonard Corpuz , Miranda Marcos C. , Bai Hua , Kipnis Yakov , Olshefsky Audrey , Priya Tanu , Carter Lauren , Ravichandran Rashmi , Chow Cameron M. , Johnson Max R. , Cheng Suna , Smith McKaela , Overed-Sayer Catherine , Finch Donna K. , Lowe David , Bera Asim K. , Matute-Bello Gustavo , Birkland Timothy P , DiMaio Frank , Raghu Ganesh , Cochran Jennifer R. , Stewart Lance J. , Campbell Melody G. , Van Ry Pam M. , Springer Timothy , Baker David
Published: June 2023

The RGD (Arg-Gly-Asp)-binding integrins αvβ6 and αvβ8 are clinically validated cancer and fibrosis targets of considerable therapeutic importance. Compounds that can discriminate between the two closely related integrin proteins and other RGD integrins, stabilize specific conformational states, and have sufficient stability enabling tissue restricted administration could have considerable therapeutic utility. Existing small molecules and antibody inhibitors do not have all of these properties, and hence there is a need for new approaches. Here we describe a method for computationally designing hyperstable RGD-containing miniproteins that are highly selective for a single RGD integrin heterodimer and conformational state, and use this strategy to design inhibitors of αvβ6 and αvβ8 with high selectivity. The αvβ6 and αvβ8 inhibitors have picomolar affinities for their targets, and >1000-fold selectivity over other RGD integrins. CryoEM structures are within 0.6-0.7Å root-mean-square deviation (RMSD) to the computational design models; the designed αvβ6 inhibitor and native ligand stabilize the open conformation in contrast to the therapeutic anti-αvβ6 antibody BG00011 that stabilizes the bent-closed conformation and caused on-target toxicity in patients with lung fibrosis, and the αvβ8 inhibitor maintains the constitutively fixed extended-closed αvβ8 conformation. In a mouse model of bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis, the αvβ6 inhibitor potently reduced fibrotic burden and improved overall lung mechanics when delivered via oropharyngeal administration mimicking inhalation, demonstrating the therapeutic potential ofde novodesigned integrin binding proteins with high selectivity.
TheCampylobacter concisusBisA protein plays a dual role: oxide-dependent anaerobic respiration and periplasmic methionine sulfoxide repair
Authors: Benoit Stéphane L. , Maier Robert J.
Published: June 2023

Campylobacter concisus, an emerging pathogen found throughout the human oral-gastrointestinal tract, is able to grow under microaerobic or anaerobic conditions; in the latter case, N-or S-oxides could be used as terminal electron acceptors (TEAs). Analysis of 23 genome sequences revealed the presence of multiple (at least two, and up to five) genes encoding for putative periplasmic N- or S-oxide reductases (N/SORs), all of which are predicted to harbor a molybdopterin (or tungstopterin)-bisguanine dinucleotide (Mo/W-bisPGD) cofactor. Various N- or S-oxides, including nicotinamide N-oxide (NANO), trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO), biotin sulfoxide (BSO), dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and methionine sulfoxide (MetO), significantly increased anaerobic growth in twoC. concisusintestinal strains (13826 and 51562) but not in theC. concisusoral (type) strain 33237. A collection of mutants was generated to determine each N/SOR substrate specificity. Surprisingly, we found that disruption of a single gene, annotated as “bisA” (present in strainsCc13826 andCc51562, but not inCc33237) abolished all N/S-oxide-supported respiration. Furthermore, ΔbisAmutants showed increased sensitivity to oxidative stress and displayed cell envelope abnormalities, suggesting BisA plays a role in protein MetO repair. Indeed, purified recombinantCcBisA was able to successfully repair MetO residues on a commercial protein (β−casein), as shown by mass spectrometry. Our results suggest that BisA plays a dual role inC. concisus, by allowing the pathogen to use N/S-oxides as TEAs, and by repairing periplasmic protein-bound MetO residues, therefore essentially being a periplasmic methionine sulfoxide reductase (Msr). This is the first report of a Mo/W-bisPGD-containing Msr enzyme in a pathogen.

IMPORTANCE

C. concisusis an excellent model organism to study respiration diversity, including anaerobic respiration of physiologically relevant N/S-oxides compounds, such as BSO, DMSO, MetO, NANO, and TMAO. AllC. concisusstrains harbor at least two, often three, and up to five genes encoding for putative periplasmic Mo/W-bisPGD-containing N/S-oxide reductases. The respective role (substrate specificity) of each enzyme was studied using a mutagenesis approach. One of the N/SOR enzymes, annotated as “BisA”, was found to be essential for anaerobic respiration of both N- and S-oxides. Additional phenotypes associated with disruption of thebisAgene included increased sensitivity toward oxidative stress and elongated cell morphology. Furthermore, a biochemical approach confirmed that BisA can repair protein-bound MetO residues. Hence, we propose that BisA plays a role as a periplasmic methionine sulfoxide reductase. This is the first report of a Mo/W-bisPGD-enzyme supporting both N-or S-oxide respiration and protein-bound MetO repair in a pathogen.
Revisiting the oil prices–domestic food inflation nexus in Nigeria: the role of global geopolitical risk
Authors: Adeosun Opeoluwa Adeniyi , Tabash Mosab I. , Anagreh Suhaib
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This study examines the influence of the global geopolitical risk (GPR) on the relationship between oil prices and domestic food prices under the augmented Phillips curve framework.

Design/methodology/approach

Using monthly data on Nigeria from January 1995 to December 2021, the authors accommodate symmetry and asymmetry by adopting the linear and nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag, linear and nonlinear Granger causality tests.

Findings

The study establishes the positive and significant effects of both oil prices and GPR on food prices in the long and short run, though with a small magnitude in the short run. The asymmetric model shows that, while oil price shocks (positive and negative) exert a positive influence on food prices in the long-run, the effects of oil price shocks differ when accounting for GPR in the short-run. The coefficients of the interactive term, being the moderator of GPR between oil-food prices, are positively significant across models, suggesting that they jointly influence food prices when assuming linearity. The nonlinear model shows that the positive and negative components of interactive terms exert a positively significant influence on food prices, even though food prices tend to be more reactive to positive oil price shocks. The robustness checks show a unidirectional causal flow from oil prices and GPR to food prices under the linear and nonlinear models.

Originality/value

The authors examine the moderating effect of the newly developed global GPR index of Caldara and Iacoviello (2022) on the oil–food inflation relationship in Nigeria by applying the symmetric and asymmetric approaches.
Do health anxiety and social value shape the intention to consume functional food: the role of health knowledge levels—evidence from Istanbul
Authors: Kurkcu Berna , Üstünsoy Eylem , Dedeoğlu Bekir Bora
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This study has two main purposes. First, the effects of health anxiety and perceived social value on the intention to consume functional food were examined. Second, the role of health knowledge levels in these relationships was identified.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample consisted of 271 restaurant consumers on the European side of Istanbul between August and October 2021. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to test the research model.

Findings

Restaurant consumers revealed that health anxiety and perceived social value positively affect functional food consumption intentions. Moreover, health knowledge levels have a negative moderating effect on the relationship between health anxiety and functional food consumption intentions.

Originality/value

Thanks to the findings of this study, the roles of health anxiety, perceived social value and health knowledge in functional food consumption were determined, thus filling a vital literature gap.
The impact of farmland transfer participation on farmers' livelihood choices – an empirical study of the effectiveness of the 2014 Three Property Rights Separation reform
Authors: Han Wenjing , Zhang Zhengfeng , Zhang Xiaoling
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Farmland transfer choice is strongly associated with the livelihood strategies of rural households. The 2014 Three Property Rights Separation (TPRS) reform has legalized farmland transfer practices in rural China, hence stimulating the farmland transfer market at the national scale. This paper aims to determine the extent to which rural family livelihood strategies are influenced by their participation decision in farmland transfer practices. Further, the authors examined the effectiveness of the TPRS reform on the impact of farmland transfer participation on rural household livelihood strategy choices.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the sustainable livelihood approach (SLA) using data from a national rural household survey, the authors employ the logit model and the propensity score matching (PSM) method to estimate the impact of household farmland transfer participation. Its interaction effects with household livelihood capital on their livelihood strategy choices and diversification level are also investigated. The difference-in-difference (DID) model is employed to assess the effectiveness of the TPRS reform.

Findings

The results indicate that the participation in transferred-out farmland could improve rural households' non-agricultural livelihood strategies. While the participation in transferred-in farmland could improve the probability of rural families' engaging in pure-agricultural (PA) or agricultural-dependent (AD) livelihood strategies, the TPRS reform can attract specialized farmers to increase their farm size through the market solutions and encourage small farmers to leave their farmland to engage in more off-farm work.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature on farmers' livelihood by exploring the role of farmland transfer decision and the effectiveness of 2014 TPRS reform through the SLA approach.
Determinants of digital technologies adoption in government census data operations
Authors: Ofosu-Ampong Kingsley , Asmah Alexander , Kani John Amoako , Bibi Dzifa
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This study investigates the determinants of digital census for population and housing census (PHC) program through the lens of performance expectancy, technology readiness, self-efficacy and hedonic motivation for the upliftment of a national data collection exercise and development of human resource management.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative and qualitative research method was used to survey enumerators' responses from the PHC exercise during the COVID-19 period in Ghana. Based on the four determinants, a conceptual framework was developed consisting of eight proposed hypotheses tested through a structural equation model.

Findings

The findings of the study indicate that technological readiness, self-efficacy and hedonic motivation significantly influence behavioural intention to adopt digital technologies for PHC training and data collection. Importantly, the authors identified four key themes relating to digital technologies in PHC – personal enablers, general enablers, inherent affordances (inherent possibilities by the user in relation to what the technology offers in context) and personal inhibitors.

Originality/value

For research, this work systematizes antecedents from diverse research streams and validates their relative impact on government digital transformation for accurate data, thus providing a cohesive theoretical explanation of digital technologies in PHC. Due to the study's infancy in a developing country context, the findings provide a preliminary foundation and constructive insight for a digitalization plan conducive to people’s personality and technological readiness.
Sealing performance in a spiral groove mechanical seal lubricated by magnetic fluid
Authors: Zhang Penggao , Feng Fei , Feng Xiu , Wei Long
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Magnetic fluid has excellent function used as lubricants in bearings and mechanical seals, and the purpose of this study is to investigate the sealing performance in a spiral groove mechanical seal lubricated by magnetic fluid.

Design/methodology/approach

The sealing characteristic parameters of the lubricating film between the end faces of two sealing rings were calculated based on the Muijderman narrow groove theory for a spiral groove mechanical seal lubricated by magnetic fluid. The film thickness was determined according to the balanced forces on the rotating ring, and the effects of operating conditions, intensity of the magnetic field and diameter of nanoparticles on the sealing characteristics were investigated.

Findings

It has been found that the intensity of magnetic field has a great effect on the viscosity of magnetic fluid, film thickness and friction torque while has a little effect on the mass flux of magnetic fluid. The film thickness, mass flux of magnetic fluid and friction torque increase with the increasing volume fraction, rotating speed and diameter of magnetic nanoparticles in magnetic fluid. The mass flux of magnetic fluid decrease with the increasing closing force, and the friction torque decreases with the increase of media pressure.

Originality/value

The change of intensity of magnetic field can affect the viscosity of magnetic fluid and then changes the sealing performance in a mechanical seal lubricated by magnetic fluid. To reduce the mass flux of magnetic fluid and friction torque, the volume fraction, diameter of solid magnetic particles and film thickness should be 5%–7%, 8–10 nm and 2–9.3 µm, respectively.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-02-2023-0032/
Nurturing self-efficacy for culturally responsive teaching through online language immersion
Authors: Courtney Matthew B.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of an online language immersion program on the participants’ self-efficacy for culturally responsive teaching.

Design/methodology/approach

The Culturally Responsive Teaching Self-Efficacy Scale (Siwatu, 2007), the Culturally Responsive Teaching Outcome Expectations Scale (Siwatu, 2007) and the Culturally Responsive Classroom Management Self-Efficacy Scale (Siwatu, et al., 2015) were used to examine the impact of the intervention using a pretest/posttest analysis. Participant reflections were also qualitatively coded to provide further insight into the program.

Findings

The intervention showed a statistically significant and positive change to participant’s self-efficacy in the areas of culturally responsive teaching and culturally responsive classroom management. Participants showed growth in outcome expectancy, but this change was not statistically significant.

Practical implications

Educators working with a high number of English learners (EL) can benefit from the intervention, which allows the educator to share in the language learning experience and gain a deeper understanding of the day-to-day challenges faced by their students.

Originality/value

This study represents the second attempt to document the impact of the BaseLang Grammarless program as a professional learning intervention for K-12 educators working in schools with a high rate of EL.
The influence of entrepreneurial innovations in building competitive advantage: the mediating role of entrepreneurial thinking
Authors: Alsafadi Yousef , Aljuhmani Hasan Yousef
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Despite the widespread recognition of the significance of entrepreneurial innovations in driving financial success and building firms' competitive advantage, there is a lack of empirical investigation into their impact on organizations. This research paper aims to address this gap by exploring how entrepreneurial innovations can contribute to firms' competitive advantage and the mediating role of entrepreneurial thinking in this relationship. To answer these research questions, this paper utilizes the resource-based view (RBV) of the firm and the dynamic capabilities view (DCV).

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed a quantitative research design, and survey data were collected from 102 chief executive officers (CEOs) of Jordanian manufacturing companies in various industries. Structural equation modeling was used to test the hypothesized relationships.

Findings

The findings of this study suggest that there is a positive and significant impact of entrepreneurial innovation and thinking on the competitive advantage of firms. The authors also found that entrepreneurial thinking positively mediates this relationship. This study’s results support the RBV and DCV perspectives, which suggest that firms need to leverage unique resources and capabilities and develop dynamic capabilities to achieve a sustained competitive advantage.

Originality/value

The significance of this study lies in its contribution to the literature on the relationship between entrepreneurial innovation, thinking and competitive advantage. While previous research has explored these concepts separately, this study integrates them into a comprehensive framework that highlights the mediating role of entrepreneurial thinking in the relationship between entrepreneurial innovation and competitive advantage.
How intellectual capital builds supply chain resilience? Exploring mediation and interaction effects from an intellectual capital based view
Authors: Yu Wantao , Wong Chee Yew , Chavez Roberto , Jacobs Mark , Nittala Lakshminarayana
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the relationship between the three dimensions of intellectual capital (IC), i.e. human, social and organizational, and supply chain resilience (SCR) through testing a primary (mediation) and competing (moderation) model.

Design/methodology/approach

Structural equation modelling and regression analysis were used to test the mediation and moderation models using survey data from Chinese manufacturers.

Findings

Dual processes in which human, social and organizational capitals build SCR are revealed: all three IC components act as knowledge stocks for informing each other, and both organizational and social capitals act as intervention mechanisms that draw knowledge resided within individuals and collectively deploy/enrich such knowledge for responding to supply chain disruptions.

Practical implications

The empirical results provide useful and timely guidance to managers on how to leverage knowledge resources to develop resilience, which is particularly valuable in the current volatile environment.

Originality/value

By empirically testing both the mediation and moderation models, this study provides crucial evidence for advancing the understanding of how the three IC components may be managed to achieve SCR, which is of critical importance for addressing the many unprecedented disruptions facing global supply chains and economies.
Reversing habitat loss: An experimental test of the interactive effects of grazing exclusion and surface rock restoration on reptile conservation
Authors: O'Sullivan Jackie L. , Foster Claire N. , Blanchard Wade , Florance Daniel , Michael Damian R. , Lindenmayer David B.
Published: June 2023

Restoring structural elements of habitats and understanding how restoration interacts with environmental factors such as grazing management can be crucial for improving conservation outcomes in agricultural landscapes. Surface rock is a structural habitat type that is critical for a range of reptile species; yet, it is often poorly managed and protected.

Using a Before/After, Control/Impact (BACI) design, we experimentally quantified the response of reptiles to surface rock restoration in an agricultural landscape, and tested whether its effects interacted with livestock grazing treatments to influence various reptile diversity measures. To implement our crossed factorial design, we added approximately 50 tonnes of rock and 1 km of grazing exclusion fencing across 10 sites in south‐eastern Australia.

We found increases in the number of total reptile captures, total individuals and species richness when comparing rock addition plots to non‐rock plots. There was no significant overall grazing exclusion effect or interactive effect of grazing and rock treatment on reptile measures.

Synthesis and applications. Our study provides experimental evidence that surface rock addition is an effective restoration method for reptiles in agricultural landscapes. We recommend that the addition of surface rock is prioritised as a restoration tool for reptiles, and that existing surface rock areas are protected from clearing.