bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What factors motivate customers to embrace a metaverse hotel?
Authors: Kim Jungsun (Sunny) , Erdem Mehmet , Kim Boran
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the influence of four motivational elements (i.e. utilitarian, hedonic, social and escapism motivations) on the propensity of customers to utilize a metaverse hotel, as well as whether age, gender and mobility disability play substantial moderating roles in these relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was gathered from 843 US residents who had experienced a hotel stay within the past two years. We tested the hypotheses using structural equation modeling and multigroup analysis.

Findings

The findings indicated that, in both age and gender groups, hedonic, social and escapism motivations had significant effects on intentions to use a metaverse hotel, whereas utilitarian motivation did not. The influence of escapism motivation on customers’ usage intentions was significantly more pronounced for males than females, suggesting the moderating role of gender in this relationship. Hedonic and social motivations exerted significant effects on usage intentions in both mobility disability and non-disability groups. The relationship between escapism motivation and intentions to use was significant for the non-disability group only, suggesting the moderating role of disability in this association.

Practical implications

This research provides recommendations for hotel managers and technology providers aiming to enhance the adoption of metaverse hotels by customers and to augment the worth of this technology.

Originality/value

This research fills the voids in the current literature by formulating and empirically evaluating a research framework to gain deeper insights into the motivations that drive the acceptance of a metaverse hotel.
Application of Flores model considering variable recovery coefficient in dynamics analysis of ball bearings
Authors: Liu Zhe , Zhang Wenjing , Guo Zhen , Yang Fang , Liu Heng , Chen Wei
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to select an appropriate contact force model and apply it to the interaction model between the balls and the cage in the rolling bearings to describe the elastic–plastic collision phenomena between the two.

Design/methodology/approach

Taking the ball–disk collision mode as an example, several main contact force models were compared and analyzed through simulation and experiment. In addition, based on the consideration of yield strength of materials and initial collision velocity, a variable recovery coefficient model was proposed, and its validity and accuracy were verified by the ball–disk collision experiments. Then, respectively, the Flores model and the Hertz model were applied to the interaction between the balls and the cage, and the dynamics simulation results were compared.

Findings

The results indicate that the Flores model has good regression of recovery coefficient, indicating good applicability for both elastic and elastic–plastic contacts and can be applied to the contact collision situations of various materials. Under certain working conditions, there are significant differences in the dynamics results of rolling bearings simulated using the Flores model and Hertz model, respectively.

Originality/value

This paper applies the Flores model with variable recovery coefficients to the dynamics simulation analysis of ball bearings to solve the elastic–plastic collision problem between the rolling elements and the cage that cannot be reasonably handled by the Hertz model.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-04-2024-0138/
Study on the wear characteristics of cylindrical needle bearings on the crankshaft of RV decelerator
Authors: Xia Xiaotian , Han Ju
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to systematically analyze the wear of cylindrical needle bearings in rotary vector reducers under temperature rise and identify the influencing factors.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the dynamic characteristics of the RV-20E reducer, the time-varying contact force of the cylindrical needle bearing and the entrainment speed of the inner and outer raceways were calculated. A mixed elastohydrodynamic lubrication model of the needle bearing, considering friction and temperature rise, was established using a dynamic rough tooth surface model. The model solved for the oil film thickness, contact stress and wear conditions of the bearing raceway contact area. The effects of the number of rolling needles, the diameter of rolling needles and surface strength on the wear characteristics were analyzed.

Findings

The results of this study show that the oil film thickness, oil film pressure and surface scratches of cylindrical needle bearings exhibit an uneven, patchy distribution under the combined effects of friction and temperature rise. When the radius of the rolling needle is less than 1.44 mm, inner ring wear is less than outer ring wear. Conversely, when the radius exceeds 1.44 mm, inner ring wear is greater. The optimal rolling needle radius is 1.6 mm. Increasing the number of rolling needles and enhancing the yield strength of the contact surface significantly extend bearing life.

Originality/value

This study provides valuable recommendations for optimizing bearing structural parameters and material characteristics in the design of rotary vector reducers.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-07-2024-0242/
A conceptual model for tracking the provenance of activities in knowledge organization systems
Authors: Choi Inkyung , Cheng Yi-Yun
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to develop a conceptual model, ProvKOS, for tracking the provenance of change activities in a knowledge organization system (KOS). By extending current provenance practices, this model represents dynamic changes in a KOS more effectively.

Design/methodology/approach

We take a five-step approach to develop the conceptual model, including content analysis of KOS editorial data, environmental scan of existing provenance models, development of persona-specific provenance questions and a participatory design with stakeholders to ensure the model’s utility.

Findings

We introduce (1) a taxonomy of editorial activities for a KOS; (2) a conceptual model ProvKOS, which extends existing models PROV and Simple Knowledge Organization Systems (SKOS). We also provide detailed data dictionaries for the entities, activities and warrants classes proposed in the model. A use case on “gender dysphoria” in Dewey Decimal Classifications (DDCs) is provided to illustrate the implementation of ProvKOS. This shows ProvKOS’s ability to capture KOS changes effectively and to link external resources relating to the changes.

Research limitations/implications

Further validation may be needed to implement the ProvKOS model across various types of KOSs.

Practical implications

ProvKOS can help improve machine readability, querying and analysis of a KOS. Especially within the linked data environment, the enhanced provenance documentation through ProvKOS can enable a network of KOSs, which will then inform better linked data or knowledge graph designs.

Social implications

By facilitating better tracking of changes within a KOS and across KOSs, ProvKOS can enhance the accessibility and usability of knowledge bases across different cultural and social contexts, thus better supporting inclusive information practices.

Originality/value

The proposed model is novel in two ways: one, its ability to represent dynamic change activities in a KOS, which has not been discussed anywhere else; two, it supports the interconnectivity across KOSs by providing a “warrant” class to substantiate the context of changes.
Partnering through pandemic recovery: an examination of a research-practice partnership in Guilford County Schools
Authors: Hashim Ayesha , Davison Miles , Morton Emily , Leak James , Wright J. Clark , Dizon-Ross Elise , Stephens Sonya , Hamilton Kara
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) requires districts to deliver “evidence-based interventions” to students impacted by the pandemic. The policy has created a unique opportunity for researchers and practitioners to engage with evidence to learn how recovery interventions work and under what conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is part of a research-practice partnership (RPP) between Guilford County Schools, AIR-CALDER, Harvard University and NWEA to understand the impacts and implementation of ESSER-funded recovery programs. We use a case analysis approach and frameworks of evidence-use and RPPs to explain how researchers and Guilford leaders engage with evidence to improve and evaluate programs.

Findings

The RPP used evidence to inform Guilford leaders’ recovery approaches and strengthened researchers’ evaluations of programs. Conditions that enabled evidence engagement included the RPP’s goals, research activities and collaborative conditions such as boundary spanning activities, team meetings, relationships and trust. We also observed factors that hindered evidence engagement, including the RPP’s nascent stage, structure and breadth of goals, rapid policy timelines and other organizational conditions in Guilford.

Originality/value

Given the complexities of pandemic recovery, RPPs can help researchers evaluate programs in their local context, and present evidence in ways that are actionable to guide decision-making. District leaders can play a valuable role in co-designing research studies attuned to local priorities and context and facilitating research participation among internal stakeholders. However, newly formed RPPs with broad goals for impact will need more time and resources to build an improvement infrastructure for sustaining pandemic recovery.
The regulatory dialectic and innovation in service-based money laundering
Authors: Sinno Roy Majed , Baldock Graham , Gleason Kimberly , Zaher Zaher
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the progression from trade-based money laundering to service-based money laundering using the Regulatory Dialectic Theory with an explanation for the success of this progression arising from Agency Theory.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors provide a literature review regarding agency theory and the regulatory dialectic as the framework to examine service-based money laundering using three documented case studies. Using the caselet approach, this paper demonstrates that innovation in financial crime typologies is ongoing.

Findings

The short cases in this paper illustrate the factors related to the regulatory dialectic theory that have yielded innovation in service-based money laundering.

Research limitations/implications

This paper examines only three recent SBML innovations.

Practical implications

Service-based money laundering represents an incremental advancement in money laundering beyond trade-based money laundering, in part supported by agency conflicts between financial intermediaries and stakeholders.

Social implications

Managers and regulators should take into account that typologies will change as predicted by the regulatory dialectic and that the regulatory response can be burdensome to financial sector entities. This paper also provides recommendations for managers and regulators.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper is the first to uncover new innovations in SBML in a high-risk geographic region.
How social media influencers form Muslim consumers’ halal cosmetics purchase intention: religiosity concern
Authors: Supriani Indri , Ninglasari Sri Yayu , Iswati Sri
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to identify factors affecting attitudes towards social media influencers (SMI) on halal cosmetics products. It subsequently examines how the latter stimulates consumers’ attitudes towards purchase intentions of halal cosmetics moderated by religiosity.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a survey of samples of Muslim cosmetic consumers in Indonesia. In total, 234 respondents were selected using the purposive sampling method; a self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from respondents. The survey data were analysed using partial least squares for structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) to achieve the study’s objectives.

Findings

The findings revealed that trust, perceived expertise and perceived behavioural control positively and significantly affect attitudes towards SMI. However, the relationship between perceived credibility, subjective norm and attitude towards SMI is insignificant. In addition, the findings revealed that attitude towards SMI has a positive effect on explaining purchase intention. Notably, religiosity does not moderate attitudes towards SMI and purchase intention.

Practical implications

This study provides guidelines for companies in understanding the influence of religiosity on consumption behaviour in SMI marketing era. Thus, it will enable marketers to identify the factors influencing customers’ attitudes towards SMI and develop marketing strategies that effectively increase the customers’ intentions to purchase halal cosmetics. This will result in Indonesia becoming the epicentre of the global halal industry, particularly in the cosmetic sector.

Originality/value

This research provides a novel perspective by investigating how SMI shapes the purchase intention of Muslim consumers on halal cosmetics.
Bridging the knowledge-intention gap in sustainable consumption: an extended model
Authors: Sinha Ranendra , Annamdevula Subrahmanyam
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The aim of this paper was to delve into the underlying mechanism of the relationship between environmental knowledge and green purchase intentions, using an extended model based on the knowledge-attitude-behaviour (KAB) theory.

Design/methodology/approach

The parallel and serial mediation effects of environmental concern, green perceived value and green attitude were examined using PROCESS macro (Models 4 and 6). Data were collected from 395 youth in three different cities in India using a purposive sampling method.

Findings

The study’s findings revealed that environmental concern, green perceived value and green attitude act as parallel and sequential mediators between environmental knowledge and green purchase intentions. However, the direct impact of environmental knowledge on green purchase intentions was deemed insignificant. In essence, environmental knowledge, along with environmental concern and green perceived value, significantly contributes to the formation of attitudes conducive to green purchase intentions.

Originality/value

The present study theoretically contributes to green behaviour research by proposing and testing an extended model of KAB theory with parallel and serial mediations in the Indian context. The model explores the underlying mechanism of the relationship between environmental knowledge and green purchase intentions in detail.
Dynamic control of ecological restoration in abandoned mines under the background of ecology-oriented development in China
Authors: Wang Ning , Tan Deqing
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study examines how local governments and enterprises can implement ecological restoration of abandoned mines based on ecology-oriented development (EOD), which will be more beneficial to local environmental protection and economic development under the central government’s policy of outcome incentives or process subsidies.

Design/methodology/approach

We construct a dynamic differential game model to simulate the interactions between local governments and enterprises during the ecological restoration of abandoned mines from an EOD perspective.

Findings

The findings suggest that under the central government’s outcome incentive policy, cooperation between local governments and enterprises is an optimal strategy. Under the process subsidy policy, while neither cooperative nor non-cooperative models significantly affect the investment levels of local governments and enterprises, a cooperative approach ensures optimal investments from both without solely relying on the process subsidy. Additionally, incorporating altruistic preferences can lead to Pareto improvements in economic and environmental results under central government outcome incentives.

Practical implications

This research offers a policy foundation for governments to encourage the EOD model in the ecological restoration of abandoned mines. It provides theoretical support for achieving environmental sustainability and high-quality economic development, and is particularly significant for resource-depleted cities seeking to transform their development strategies.

Originality/value

Through a dynamic differential game model involving government agencies and enterprises to simulate decision-making in the ecological restoration of abandoned mines, incorporating altruistic preferences into this restoration process, and identifying optimal strategies and policies for ecological restoration.
How mobile social networks affect rural household income: evidence from China
Authors: Zhang Jiaping , Gong Xiaomei
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The research attempts to estimate how the use of WeChat, the most popular mobile social networking application in contemporary China, affects rural household income.

Design/methodology/approach

Our materials are 4,552 rural samples from the Chinese General Social Survey, and a treatment effect (TE) model is employed to address the endogeneity of WeChat usage.

Findings

The results prove that WeChat usage has a statistically significant and positive correlation with rural household income. This conclusion remains robust after using alternative variables to replace the explanatory and dependent variables. Our research provides two channels through which WeChat usage boosts rural household income, namely, it can promote their off-farm employment and participation in investment activities.

Originality/value

Theoretically, the study provides several micro-evidences for understanding the impact of mobile social networks on rural household welfare. Further, our findings may shed light on the importance of digital technology applications in rural poverty alleviation for developing countries.
Analysis of countries' performances in individual Olympic Games using cluster analysis and decision trees: the case of Tokyo 2020
Authors: Cetinkaya Ahmet , Peker Serhat , Kuvvetli Ümit
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate and understand the performance of countries in individual Olympic Games, specifically focusing on the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Employing cluster analysis and decision trees, the research aims to categorize countries based on their representation, participation and success.

Design/methodology/approach

This research employs a data-driven approach to comprehensively analyze and enhance understanding of countries' performances in individual Olympic Games. The methodology involves a two-stage clustering method and decision tree analysis to categorize countries and identify influential factors shaping their Olympic profiles.

Findings

The study, analyzing countries' performances in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics through cluster analysis and decision trees, identified five clusters with consistent profiles. Notably, China, Great Britain, Japan, Russian Olympic Committee and the United States formed a high-performing group, showcasing superior success, representation and participation. The analysis revealed a correlation between higher representation/participation and success in individual Olympic Games. Decision tree insights underscored the significance of population size, GDP per Capita and HALE index, indicating that countries with larger populations, better economic standing and higher health indices tended to perform better.

Research limitations/implications

The study has several limitations that should be considered. Firstly, the findings are based on data exclusively from the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, which may limit the generalizability of the results to other editions.

Practical implications

The research offers practical implications for policymakers, governments and sports organizations seeking to enhance their country's performance in individual Olympic Games.

Social implications

The research holds significant social implications by contributing insights that extend beyond the realm of sports.

Originality/value

The originality and value of this research lie in its holistic approach to analyzing countries' performances in individual Olympic Games, particularly using a two-stage clustering method and decision tree analysis.
Reflections of digital technologies on human resources management in the tourism sector
Authors: Ercik Cevat , Kardaş Kerem
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study is to examine in detail the impact of technological advancements on the workforce within the tourism industry. Specifically, it seeks to understand the effects of information and communication technologies (ICT), social media, the internet and websites, mobile technologies and other technological developments on workforce dynamics, skill requirements and job descriptions. The research intends to analyze how technological innovations are transforming the workforce and how these transformations are influencing practices within the industry.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs a comprehensive literature review to understand the impact of technological innovations on the workforce in the tourism industry. The research aims to conduct an in-depth examination of empirical data obtained from extensive databases in the fields of technology and tourism and detail the effects of technological advancements on the workforce. Additionally, it includes a general assessment of trends and transformation processes within the sector by synthesizing findings from existing literature on the relationship between technology and workforce.

Findings

The results of the research reveal that technological innovations have fundamentally transformed workforce dynamics and job descriptions. Developments in information technology have led to the automation of routine tasks and the creation of high-skilled new job roles. Social media has contributed to the emergence of new job roles and skill requirements, while the internet and websites have altered digital marketing strategies. Mobile technologies have increased the necessity for the workforce to develop mobile skills. Furthermore, big data and artificial intelligence applications have enhanced the workforce’s data management and analysis capabilities.

Originality/value

This study makes a significant contribution to understanding the impact of technological innovations on the workforce in the tourism industry. The findings emphasize how technological changes have altered skill requirements and job descriptions, highlighting the increased need for continuous education and skill development.
Continuous “Planting a seed of interest”: children’s book marketing strategies on Xiaohongshu
Authors: Nan Yuan , Chen Huan
Published: September 2024

Purpose

As one of China’s most influential social platforms, Xiaohongshu is considered an underexploited market with significant user traffic. This study aims to build on existing scholarly work on social media marketing by conducting an empirical analysis of Xiaohongshu’s content to explore effective marketing strategies for children’s books.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses qualitative content analysis to investigate the marketing practices for children’s books on Xiaohongshu. By systematically coding and interpreting data, the authors identified core marketing strategies and their interactions among publishers of children’s books on the platform.

Findings

Based on viral marketing and social proof theories, the analysis delineates practices and interrelations among three key marketing strategy components: content creation, traffic navigation and sales conversion on Xiaohongshu. From this analysis, a conceptual model titled “Continuous ‘Planting a Seed’ of Interest: Strategies for Marketing Children’s Books on Xiaohongshu” was developed.

Originality/value

This research not only corroborates the existing literature on the transformative power of social media in marketing but also extends it by providing a focused examination of how these principles apply to the promotion of children’s books on Xiaohongshu. It also provides practical insights for publishers looking to develop effective marketing strategies.
Barbie drug identification: Not a child's play
Authors: Deville Marine , Charlier Corinne
Published: September 2024

Various samples—including two vials with a pharmaceutical appearance—were submitted to the laboratory for identification. The aim of this work was to describe the unique characteristics observed during the analysis of the powder contained in the vial. Samples were submitted to HPLC‐DAD, UHPLC‐TOF‐MS, and/or UPLC‐MS–MS analysis. The majority of the samples were easily identified as standard drugs of abuse. The main difficulty lay in identifying the powder in the vials. No match was found in the library through HPLC‐DAD analysis. Fortunately, the vials were labeled as “Melanotan II”, although the UV spectrum was not available. Mass spectrometric analysis of melanotan II was challenging, as it is a small peptide with a molecular weight of 1024 Da, which is significantly heavier than classical drugs that the laboratory usually handles. As a result, mass spectrometer's parameters can be limited to detect masses up to 1000 Da. Additionally, melanotan II is multi‐charged which is also unusual for compounds typically targeted in our daily work. Finally, the reference standard allowed us to confirm the identification with both instruments, and determine the purity of 30%. Melanotan II is not approved on the market due to safety concerns. It is used illegally mainly for tanning, explaining its nickname “Barbie drug”. To conclude, analysis of melanotan II was challenging as it is heavy and doubly charged. Moreover, its UV spectrum was initially not available in the literature. The difficulties faced by forensic scientists in detecting this drug may explain its popularity on the illicit market.
Twin Horsetailing Structures in the Extensional Regime based on Physical Experiment
Authors: LAO Haigang , XU Hongyuan , WANG Yongshi , MAO Cui , HERSI Osman Salad , LI Dianheng
Published: September 2024

Horsetailing is an important feature to identify the strike‐slip structure and indicates the movement mode of the fault. However, the formation mechanism of horsetailing in the extensional regime remains unclear. In this study, the formation process of horsetailing is reproduced through physical experiment, simulating the Linnan sag in the extensional regime. The results of the physical experiment demonstrates that the formation of the horsetailing in the extensional regime requires two phases of non‐coaxial stretching plus the segment of the principal fault. The stretching distance in the early phase is slightly smaller than that in the middle–late phase. The segment point of the principal fault is only the intersection of the horsetailing structure and the principal fault. The horsetailing formed in the extensional regime is different from that in the strike‐slip regime. For the formation of structure, the principal fault is dip‐slip in the early phase and then becomes an oblique‐slip in the middle–late phase, and the horsetailing is composed of the middle–late new tensile faults. The fault properties of the horsetailing in the extensional regime has important guiding significance for the longitudinal fluid migration along the fault in petroliferous basins.
Microbial Biosignatures Associated with Iddingsite in Hadal Basalts from the Southern Mariana Trench
Authors: GUO Zixiao , HU Yazhen , DU Qingying , LIU Yadong , QIN Guohong , PENG Xiaotong
Published: September 2024

Iddingsitization is an aqueous alteration that is known to take place in meteorites and continental basalts providing a potential habitat for microbial life. However, little is known about the exact mode by which this reaction occurs in the hadal seafloor and its implication for the deep subsurface biosphere. A comprehensive investigation of hadal basalts from the southern Mariana Trench (SMT) conducted with microscopic examinations shows that iddingsite occurs as augite‐hosted veins, rims, and mineral grains formed completely in place of augite within the SMT basalts. Carbon geochemistry indicates that organic matter with homogenous δ13C values between –27.8‰ and –27.2‰ might be biogenically accumulated in the SMT basalts. Furthermore, the close spatial relationships between carbonaceous matter (CM) and goethite in iddingsite point to microbial attachment to iddingsite minerals. Thus, iddingsitization might have fueled H2‐utilizing microorganisms inhabiting the hadal oceanic crust, thereby leading to the formation of CM, as implied by oxygen isotopic compositions revealing low alteration temperatures (32–83°C) favorable for microbial growth. In all, microbial biosignatures associated with iddingsite in the SMT basalts are highlighted, and these results could pave the way for deciphering the deep subsurface biosphere at hadal zones.
The Source Crater of Depleted Shergottites
Authors: LUO Fanglu , XIAO Zhiyong , XU Rui , CHANG Yiren , MA Yizhen , CAO Wei , WU Yunhua , WANG Yichen
Published: September 2024

Depleted shergottites record unique information about the primary composition and differentiation of the mantle of Mars. Their petrology, geochemistry, and cosmic ray exposure and crystallization ages suggest that most of them were excavated by a single young impact in the Amazonian‐aged lava flows of the Tharsis and Elysium volcanic provinces. However, the difficulties of deriving consistent model ages for individual craters and inadequate evaluation of 3–7 km craters capable of ejecting martian meteorites have not been settled. Here we perform detailed geological investigations and crater statistics in patches of impact melt deposits for potential source craters of depleted shergottites with D > 3 km, especially those in the Tharsis and Elysium volcanic provinces. By excluding the effect of heterogeneous textures across ejecta deposits, which hinder straightforward extraction of superposed production populations, our systematically updated model ages reveal that Chakpar crater at the northern flank of Ascraeus Mons is the best‐fit candidate. The local context of this crater permits establishing a link between the meteorites and specific lava flows. The long‐lived volcanic center here may experience an eruption and/or local deposition hiatus for about 1.8 billion years, and abundant subsurface water existed when the impact occurred at about 1.1 million years.
Impact of renal replacement therapy modality on coagulation and platelet function in critically ill patients: A prospective observational study
Authors: Im Hyunjae , Jeong Jaehoon , Oh Seung‐Young , Lim Leerang , Lee Hannah , Ryu Ho Geol
Published: September 2024

Background

Renal replacement therapy (RRT) may affect coagulation and platelet function in critically ill patients. However, the mechanism and the difference in the impact on coagulation between intermittent hemodialysis (iHD) and continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate and compare the impact of iHD and CRRT on coagulation and platelet function.

Methods

Critically ill patients undergoing RRT were classified into the iHD group or the CRRT group. After the first blood sampling, patients underwent either a single session of hemodialysis or 48 h of CRRT, then a second blood sample was taken. Rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM), platelet aggregometry and conventional coagulation tests were performed. The primary outcome was a change in extrinsically activated ROTEM (EXTEM) clotting time (CT).

Results

60 dialysis sessions from 56 patients were finally included, with 30 dialysis sessions per group. EXTEM CT was prolonged significantly after dialysis in the iHD group (90 [74, 128] vs. 74 [61, 91], p < 0.001), but did not change in the CRRT group (94.4 ± 29.4 vs. 91.6 ± 22.9, p = 0.986). The platelet aggregation did not change after both iHD and CRRT. A change in EXTEM CT was significantly greater in the iHD group compared to the CRRT group (p = 0.006). The difference in the incidence of bleeding events was insignificant between the two groups (p = 0.301).

Conclusions

EXTEM CT was significantly prolonged after iHD, but this change was not shown after CRRT. Platelet function was not affected by both dialysis modalities.
Letter: Association of myokines with disease progression and outcomes in patients with alcohol‐associated liver disease
Authors: Lv Jianyu , Ying Yize , Du Chenfei
Published: September 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Kaur et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18202 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18279
Impact of non‐selective beta blockers on further decompensation and death in decompensated cirrhosis: Benefit and risk stratification by MELD score
Authors: Wang Ting , Wang Xueying , Jia Siqi , Zhao Haitao , Wang Le , Zhang Xianxian , Fang Xiaohui , He Yong , Li Hongyu , Tacke Frank , Qi Xingshun
Published: September 2024

Background

Non‐selective beta blockers (NSBBs) can reduce the risk of decompensation, but their impact on further decompensation has been rarely investigated.

Aims

The aim is to evaluate the impact of NSBBs on further decompensation and death in decompensated cirrhosis stratified by the severity of liver disease.

Methods

Overall, 332 decompensated cirrhotic patients were retrospectively included, of whom 149 used NSBBs. Kaplan–Meier and Nelson–Aalen cumulative risk curves as well as Cox regression and competing risk analyses were used to estimate the associations of NSBBs with further decompensation and death, if appropriate. Hazard ratio (HR) and sub‐distribution HR (sHR) were calculated. Subgroup analyses were performed based on the model for end‐stage liver disease (MELD) score at admission.

Results

In the overall analysis, the use of NSBBs was not significantly associated with further decompensation in multivariate competing risk analysis (sHR = 1.09, p = 0.580). In the subgroup analysis of patients with a MELD score of ≤9, the use of NSBBs was significantly associated with decreased risk of further decompensation in multivariate competing risk analysis (sHR = 0.57, p = 0.021). In the subgroup analysis of patients with a MELD score of >9, the use of NSBBs was associated with increased risk of further decompensation in multivariate competing risk analysis (sHR = 1.45, p = 0.044). Regardless of overall and subgroup analyses, the use of NSBBs was not significantly associated with death in multivariate Cox regression analyses.

Conclusion

NSBBs may be beneficial for the prevention of further decompensation in cirrhotic patients with a MELD score of ≤9, but deleterious in those with a MELD score of >9.
Letter: Association of myokines with disease progression and outcomes in patients with alcohol‐associated liver disease—Authors' reply
Authors: Kaur Parminder , Verma Nipun
Published: September 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Kaur et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18202 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18238
Description of aberrant otolith morphology of Saurida lessepsianus (Aulopiformes, Synodontidae) collected from the coast of Muğla province, Aegean Sea, Turkey
Authors: Reis İsmail , Jawad Laith , Ateş Celal
Published: September 2024

This is the first study investigating the aberrant otolith morphology in the Lessepsian lizardfish Saurida lessepsianus in the Aegean Sea, Turkey. A Leica Emspira 3 digital microscope was used to determine the aberrant otoliths examined. Two female specimens measuring 230 and 274 mm in total length (TL) were examined and showed an aberrant otolith on both sides of their head. These deformities might have been instigated by the impacts of changing water factors related to diverse pollutants in the Aegean Sea. Characteristics of otolith deformities are of immeasurable significance for aquatic habitats and other otolith studies.
A Systematic Review to Explore Antenatal Care From the Perspectives of Women With Intellectual Disabilities and Midwives
Authors: Alhulaibi Weam , Stockdale Janine , McAleer Paul
Published: September 2024

Background

During pregnancy, some women with an intellectual disability encounter some challenges, and some midwives who provide them with support lack the knowledge to provide the best care. This systematic review explores the experiences of women with intellectual disability during pregnancy and midwives' experiences of providing care.

Method

Four databases were searched (PubMed, CINHAL, PsycINFO and Web of Science) and the resultant studies were appraised for quality using CASP. The selected papers were published between January 2012 and December 2022 and originated from the United Kingdom, Sweden, Canada and Ireland.

Results

Eight studies were included: five examined the experiences of pregnant women with intellectual disability, one investigated the midwives' experiences of caring and two analysed both groups. The primary themes amongst women included pregnancy announcements, involvement in their care and fear of losing their baby custody. The midwives expressed their lack of readiness and need for additional support. Both groups recognised the necessity for improved education and accessible communication.

Conclusion

Women with intellectual disabilities who are in the context of this review revealed their requirement for improved education and assistance in understanding antenatal information. The midwives within the included studies felt inadequately prepared to support women with intellectual disabilities: they lacked specialist training and required additional support in health education and communication skills.
Moving On, But Where? A Snapshot of Ontario Ministerial Staff Career Trajectories
Authors: Spicer Zachary , Chatha Muzammil
Published: September 2024

Despite their centrality to the success of government business, we know very little about political staff, including their contributions to the policy process, the ways in which they contribute to government decision‐making or their career trajectories. This research note examines the experience that political staff bring to their positions and where they find employment after leaving ministerial offices, using archived staff directories across four governments (NDP, Liberal and two Progressive Conservative administrations) in Ontario, Canada and cross‐referencing names using LinkedIn. In total, we explore career progression of 1,153 political staff who have employment information publicly available on LinkedIn. Many take these roles having remarkably diverse backgrounds, including finance, law, academia, business and, even, other roles in the public service. Upon leaving political service, some choose to join the non‐partisan ranks of public servants. Many leaving government head towards government relations firms to use their skills and experience to advance their careers. Most of these experiences are consistent across all three political parties that have held office in Ontario.
Growth pattern of de novo small clusters of colorectal cancer is regulated by Notch signaling at detachment
Authors: Lin Yi‐Kai , Coppo Roberto , Onuma Kunishige , Endo Hiroko , Kondo Jumpei , Iwabuchi Sadahiro , Hashimoto Shinichi , Itatani Yoshiro , Obama Kazutaka , Inoue Masahiro
Published: September 2024

Cancer cell clusters have a higher capacity for metastasis than single cells, suggesting cancer cell clusters have biological properties different from those of single cells. The nature of de novo cancer cell clusters that are newly formed from tumor masses is largely unknown. Herein, we generated small cell clusters from colorectal cancer organoids and tracked the growth patterns of the clusters up to four cells. Growth patterns were classified into actively growing and poorly growing spheroids (PG). Notch signaling was robustly activated in small clusters immediately after dissociation, and Notch signaling inhibition markedly increased the proportion of PG spheroids. Only a limited number of PG spheroids grew under growth‐permissive conditions in vitro, but xenograft tumors derived from Notch inhibited clusters showed growth rates comparable to those of untreated spheroids. Thus, de novo clusters are composed of cells with interchangeable growth fates, which are regulated in a context‐dependent manner by Notch signaling.
Synthesis and Preliminary Anticancer Evaluation of 4‐C Derivatives of Diphyllin
Authors: Zhao Ruihan , Ni Xiao , Dong Chenhu , Xu Jun , Zhao Yu
Published: September 2024

The natural lignan diphyllin has shown promising antitumor activity, although its clinical advancement has been impeded by challenges such as low solubility, poor metabolic stability, and limited potency. In response, we developed and synthesized two sets of diphyllin 4‐C derivatives, comprising six ester derivatives and eight 1, 2, 3‐triazole derivatives. Notably, among these derivatives, 1, 2, 3‐triazole derivatives 7c and 7e demonstrated the most potent cytotoxic effects, with IC50 values ranging from 0.003 to 0.01 μM. Treatment with 0.2 μM of 7c and 7e resulted in a reduction of V‐ATPase activity in HGC‐27 cells to 23% and 29%, respectively.
Effects of β‐sitosterol on anxiety in migraine‐induced rats: The role of oxidative/nitrosative stress and mitochondrial function
Authors: Vafaei Ali , Vafaeian Ahmad , Iranmehr Arad , Nassireslami Ehsan , Hasannezhad Behnam , Hosseini Yasaman
Published: September 2024

Aims

Anxiety often coexists with migraine, and both conditions share a commonality in oxidative/nitrosative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction contributing to their pathogenesis. β‐Sitosterol, a plant sterol, has shown promise in mitigating oxidative/nitrosative stress, enhancing mitochondrial function, and exerting neuroprotective effects. In this study, we investigated the impact of β‐sitosterol on migraine‐associated anxiety and whether this effect was associated with alleviation of oxidative/nitrosative stress and improvement in mitochondrial function.

Methods

Nitroglycerin was used to induce migraine in adult male Wistar rats. β‐Sitosterol treatment consisted of daily intraperitoneal injections (10 mg/kg) for 10 days following migraine induction. Anxiety levels were evaluated using open‐field test (OFT) and hole‐board test (HBT). Frontal cortex samples were analyzed for malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), reactive oxygen/nitrogen species, nitric oxide (NO) (markers of oxidative/nitrosative stress), and ATP (indicator of mitochondrial function).

Results

Migraine induction led to impaired performance in both the OFT and the HBT. Concurrently, it elevated MDA, reactive oxygen/nitrogen species, and NO levels while diminishing GSH levels in the frontal cortex, signifying heightened oxidative/nitrosative stress. Moreover, ATP levels decreased, indicating mitochondrial dysfunction. Treatment with β‐sitosterol significantly restored performance in both behavioral assays and normalized the levels of MDA, GSH, reactive oxygen/nitrogen species, NO, and ATP.

Conclusion

β‐Sitosterol exerted anxiolytic effects in migraine, which can be attributed to its ability to ameliorate oxidative/nitrosative stress and enhance mitochondrial function.
Building a coordinated framework for research and monitoring in large‐scale international marine protected areas: The Ross Sea region as a model system
Authors: Brooks Cassandra , Stammerjohn Sharon , Ballard Grant , DuVivier Alice K. , Hofmann Eileen , LaRue Michelle , Nissen Cara , Orona Alexander J. , Pan B. Jack , Schmidt Annie E. , Walker Nathan , Watters George M. , Weller John
Published: September 2024

To fulfill their conservation potential and provide safeguards for biodiversity, marine protected areas (MPAs) need coordinated research and monitoring for informed management through effective evaluation of ecosystem dynamics. However, coordination is challenging, often due to knowledge gaps caused by inadequate access to data and resources, compounded by insufficient communication between scientists and managers. We propose to use the world's largest MPA in the Ross Sea, Antarctica as a model system to create a comprehensive framework for an interdisciplinary network supporting research and monitoring that could be implemented in other remote large‐scale international MPAs. Our proposed framework has three key components: (i) policy engagement, including delineation of policy needs and ecosystem metrics to assess MPA effectiveness; (ii) community partner engagement to elevate diverse voices, build trust, and share resources; and (iii) integrated science comprising three themes. These themes are: advancement of data science and cyberinfrastructure to facilitate data synthesis and sharing; biophysical modeling towards understanding ecosystem changes and uncertainties; and execution of observational and process studies to address uncertainties and evaluate ecosystem metrics. This proposed framework can improve MPA implementation by generating policy‐relevant science through this coordinated network, which can in turn improve MPA effectiveness in the Ross Sea and beyond.
The Number of Episodes of Subtherapeutic Tacrolimus Blood Level Is Independently Associated With Reduced Kidney Graft Survival
Authors: Meisel Eshcar , Bielopolski Dana , Steinmetz Tali , Agur Timna , Lichtenberg Shelly , Goldman Shira , Herman‐Edelstein Michal , Nesher Eviatar , Rahamimov Ruth , Rozen‐Zvi Benaya
Published: September 2024

Background

Tacrolimus blood level variability is associated with reduced graft survival among kidney transplant recipients. To date, no practical approach for reducing variability has been validated. We defined specific tacrolimus blood level patterns correlated with variability and evaluated their independent association with reduced graft survival.

Methods

In this single‐center retrospective study, we predefined 12 patterns that exhibited correlation with high tacrolimus blood level variability. Subsequently, we utilized a multivariate Cox proportional hazard model, in conjunction with the Akaike information criteria, to evaluate the association between the predefined patterns and decreased graft survival.

Results

Our cohort included 1305 kidney transplant recipients. The primary outcome of this trial was graft loss, defined as the initiation of chronic dialysis or the need for retransplantation. The secondary outcome was the combination of death‐censored graft loss and death with a functioning graft. During the study's follow‐up period, there were 131 events of graft loss. The number of episodes of subtherapeutic tacrolimus level during the first‐year posttransplantation was significantly associated with graft loss (HR 1.208 per episode, 95% CI 1.075–1.356, p = 0.001) and significantly improved the relative likelihood of the model compared to the multivariate model as demonstrated by the delta AIC value (8.256, p = 0.016).

Conclusion

In addition to increased tacrolimus blood level variability, the number of episodes of subtherapeutic tacrolimus levels is independently associated with decreased graft survival among kidney transplant recipients.