bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computational investigation of the aerodynamic performance of an optimised alternative fuselage shape
Authors: Odendaal Diwan U. , Smith Lelanie , Craig Kenneth J. , Sanders Drewan S.
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to re-evaluation fuselage design when the main wing’s has the ability to fulfill stability requirements without the need for a tailplane. The aerodynamic requirements of the fuselage usually involve a trade-off between reducing drag and providing enough length for positioning the empennage to ensure stability. However, if the main wing can fulfill the stability requirements without the need for a tailplane, then the fuselage design requirements can be re-evaluated. The optimisation of the fuselage can then include reducing drag and also providing a component of lift amongst other potential new requirements.

Design/methodology/approach

A careful investigation of parameterisation and trade-off optimisation methods to create such fuselage shapes was performed. The A320 Neo aircraft is optimised using a parameterised 3D fuselage model constructed with a modified PARSEC method and the SHERPA optimisation strategy, which was validated through three case studies. The geometry adjustments in relation to the specific flow phenomena are considered for the three optimal designs to investigate the influencing factors that should be considered for further optimisation.

Findings

The top three aerodynamic designs show a distinctive characteristic in the low aspect ratio thick wing-like aftbody that has pressure drag penalties, and the aftbody camber increased surface area notably improved the fuselage’s lift characteristics.

Originality/value

This work contributes to the development of a novel set of design requirements for a fuselage, free from the constraints imposed by stability requirements. By gaining insights into the flow phenomena that influence geometric designs when a lift requirement is introduced to the fuselage, we can understand how the fuselage configuration was optimised. This research lays the groundwork for identifying innovative design criteria that could extend into the integration of propulsion of the aftbody.
Relationship between workplace ostracism and job productivity: the mediating effect of emotional exhaustion and lack of motivation
Authors: Ibrahim Raed , Olaleye Banji Rildwan
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Drawing on the transactional theory of stress and coping, this paper aims to identify the relationship between workplace ostracism and job productivity by analyzing the mediating role of emotional exhaustion and lack of motivation.

Design/methodology/approach

We collected data from a sample of 396 employees from 20 manufacturing companies in Jordan using a survey-based, two-tiered approach. The partial least squares structural equation modeling method was used to test the direct and indirect effects of ostracism on productivity.

Findings

The findings show that workplace ostracism increases emotional exhaustion and motivation, and indirectly decreases job productivity through the mediating role of emotional exhaustion and lack of motivation.

Originality/value

The study provides a theoretical foundation on which various companies can base their understanding of workplace ostracism and its relationship to job productivity. By focusing on increased exhaustion and lack of motivation, this study analyzes current literature to establish the impacts on areas of interest and identify expectations in the context of productivity, as well as enhance comprehension of the detrimental effects of workplace ostracism on productivity.
A case study and empirical examination of creating a new premium new energy vehicle brand by NIO
Authors: Yang Yiweng , Zhang Hui , Tao Xiaobo , Ji Xuehong , Li Jipeng
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The purpose is to investigate how to create a new premium new energy vehicle brand.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed a two-stage design. Firstly, a single-case study of NIO was undertaken to execute a thematic analysis, from which propositions were proposed and a theoretical model was constructed. Subsequently, quantitative data were collected through the questionnaire method to empirically test the model developed in the first stage.

Findings

NIO creates great user experience through four aspects: product, service, digital touchpoints and lifestyle. Functional experience is shaped by product and digital touchpoints, while emotional experience is affected by service and lifestyle. NIO wins extremely high user satisfaction through great user experience. User satisfaction is affected by both functional and emotional experience. Taking extremely satisfied users as the core, NIO leverages word-of-mouth recommendations to increase brand awareness and build premium brand image, so as to achieve high performance in the long term.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by proposing and testing a theoretical model of creating a new premium new energy vehicle brand. It highlights the significance of emotional factors in the process of creating a new premium brand. It proposes employing the “ripple model” to translate user satisfaction into financial performance. It provides a three-step guide to creating a new premium brand for managers.
The effect of entrepreneurial education on career choice intentions of college students: a social cognitive career theory approach
Authors: Cui Jun , Gu Luwen
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This study aims at addressing the impact of entrepreneurial education (EE) by highlighting career choice intentions (CCI) and entrepreneurial mindset (EM) as impact indicators, as well as unpacking the drivers and mediators in the formation of CCI among college students underpinned by social cognitive career theory (SCCT).

Design/methodology/approach

The hypotheses were tested on a survey sample of 1,198 students from 15 higher education institutions in China. Multinomial logistic regression was used to compare the different effects of EE on CCI, which is a categorical variable with four types of options.

Findings

The results confirmed the effects of EE on entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE), entrepreneurial outcome expectations (EOE) and EM, as well as the heterogeneity of antecedent connections with students preferring one career choice to the others. The results also revealed the mediating role of ESE and EOE in the model.

Research limitations/implications

The study implies that ESE and EM should be integrated into EE learning outcomes and educators should focus on multiple career choice intentions rather than just entrepreneurial intention for college students' sustainable development.

Originality/value

The research contributes to the literature by verifying CCI and EM as impact indicators of EE, to a nuanced understanding of the educational development of various options of career paths by comparing different career intentions in a mediating model and to the expansion of SCCT by integrating diverse factors in a coherent model within the context of higher education in China.
Graph structure estimation neural network-based service classification
Authors: Li Yanxinwen , Xie Ziming , Cao Buqing , Lou Hua
Published: June 2024

Purpose

With the introduction of graph structure learning into service classification, more accurate graph structures can significantly improve the precision of service classification. However, existing graph structure learning methods tend to rely on a single information source when attempting to eliminate noise in the original graph structure and lack consideration for the graph generation mechanism. To address this problem, this paper aims to propose a graph structure estimation neural network-based service classification (GSESC) model.

Design/methodology/approach

First, this method uses the local smoothing properties of graph convolutional networks (GCN) and combines them with the stochastic block model to serve as the graph generation mechanism. Next, it constructs a series of observation sets reflecting the intrinsic structure of the service from different perspectives to minimize biases introduced by a single information source. Subsequently, it integrates the observation model with the structural model to calculate the posterior distribution of the graph structure. Finally, it jointly optimizes GCN and the graph estimation process to obtain the optimal graph.

Findings

The authors conducted a series of experiments on the API data set and compared it with six baseline methods. The experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the GSESC model in service classification.

Originality/value

This paper argues that the data set used for service classification exhibits a strong community structure. In response to this, the paper innovatively applies a graph-based learning model that considers the underlying generation mechanism of the graph to the field of service classification and achieves good results.
Export market orientation, performance and international partner selection: word-of-mouth referral versus direct contact
Authors: Ishii Ryuta , Kikumori Mai
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Export market orientation can be broadly divided into intelligence (generation and dissemination) and responsiveness activities. Although previous studies assess intelligence and responsiveness activities, little is known about what type of international channel partner acts as an enabling condition for the impact of these activities on export venture performance. This study aims to examine the extent to which the selection of international channel partners through word-of-mouth referrals versus direct contacts affects the benefits of intelligence and responsiveness activities.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 246 exporting manufacturers in Japan. To test the hypotheses, we conducted regression analyses using a subjective performance measure at the venture level. We also performed a post hoc analysis using objective performance measure at the function level.

Findings

We find that the extent to which international channel partners are selected through word-of-mouth referrals has a moderating role in the export market-oriented activities–performance linkages. Specifically, it acts as an enabling condition for intelligence activity and a disenabling condition for responsiveness activity.

Originality/value

This study contributes to a better understanding of export market orientation by classifying it into intelligence and responsiveness activities and providing empirical evidence on their different interaction effects with partner selection. It also contributes to the elaboration of agency theory by offering insights into the fit between task characteristics and contract type. Our study is critical for business managers as it suggests guidelines for manufacturing exporters engaging in export market-oriented behaviors and export channel management.
Exploring organizational change in the age of digital transformation and its impact on talent management: trends and challenges
Authors: Montero Guerra José Manuel , Danvila-Del Valle Ignacio
Published: June 2024

Purpose

This article aims to examine whether the organizational changes brought about by digital transformation (DT) -such as a new organizational culture, new leadership and new business models-influence talent management, with the latter being seen as one of the major challenges facing companies in their process of digital transformation.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a quantitative methodology, a survey was applied to 314 companies in order to analyze the results of their talent management in the DT process. DT is not only digitalization as demonstrated in this study. Talent management is the key piece that can facilitate or block achieving high levels of digital maturity.

Findings

The study finds that the changes brought about by DT impact talent attraction, talent retention, and talent management in general, and also shows that digital transformation does not depend on digitalization, but rather that talent management is the key to either helping or preventing high levels of digital maturity being achieved.

Originality/value

The originality of this work lies in examining the influence of the changes that DT entails in talent management.
The nexus between intrapreneurship and person-job fit: a qualitative comparative analysis of work motivation in SMEs
Authors: Chouchane Rahma , St-Jean Étienne
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Based on self-determination theory and the perspective of person-job fit, this study aims to determine the configurations of situations in which the person-intrapreneurship fit and psychosocial factors that lead to different types of motivation.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected from 199 employees of four Quebec small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and analyzed by a configurational approach using the Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) method.

Findings

The results indicate that for intrapreneurs to operate autonomously, it is crucial that they do not experience job anxiety. Intrapreneurial self-efficacy is required when intrapreneurship is voluntary (strong fit) but not when forced (poor fit). In forced intrapreneurship, organizational support is central to self-determination. Thus, regardless of self-efficacy, the model suggests autonomous motivation is possible in forced intrapreneurship if the employee has organizational support and lacks anxiety.

Practical implications

These findings underscore the imperative for organizations to prioritize the psychological well-being of their employees, particularly when engaging them in intrapreneurial projects. Additionally, managers can foster autonomous motivation by encouraging favorable behaviors such as intrapreneurial behavior (IB) and providing essential support, particularly when these projects may not align with employees' ambitions and intentions.

Originality/value

This study offers a novel perspective on the role of person-job fit in the specific context of intrapreneurship, based on a new categorization of fit based on the disparity between employees' intrapreneurial intention and actual intrapreneurial behavior. It provides unique theoretical and practical insights into fostering autonomous motivation through the lens of person-intrapreneurship fit.
Stock price crash risk research: current trends and future directions
Authors: Srivastava Anjali , Assaf Rima , Pandey Dharen Kumar , Kumar Rahul
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Understanding and mitigating stock price crash risk is vital for investors and regulators to ensure financial market stability. This study aims to unveil significant research trends and opportunities.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts the bibliometric and systematic review approach to analyse 485 Scopus-indexed articles through citation, keyword co-occurrence, bibliographic coupling, and publication analyses and delve into the depth of crash risk literature.

Findings

This bibliometric review reveals not only a surge in crash risk publications over the last decade but also delineates several emerging thematic threads within this domain. We identify seven distinct themes that have gained prominence in recent literature: bad news hoarding, board characteristics, capital market factors, corporate policies, ownership impact, corporate governance, and external environmental influences on crash risk. This thematic analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the evolving landscape of crash risk research and underscores the multifaceted nature of factors contributing to market instability.

Practical implications

This study makes a substantial contribution by furnishing a thorough examination of existing studies, pinpointing areas where knowledge is lacking, and shedding light on emerging trends and debates within the crash risk literature.

Originality/value

This study identifies current research trajectories and propels future exploration into agency perspectives, audit quality, and corporate disclosures within crash risk literature.
Safety training needs of educational institutions
Authors: Savolainen Timo , Airo Kaisa , Jylhä Tuuli
Published: June 2024

Purpose

The overall quality of education may be compromised due to the limited availability of safety and security (S&S) courses in professional teacher education. The purpose of this paper is to identify the main safety-related training needs of a higher education institution, which may provide insights for improving the quality of education from a safety perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

This study included 17 interviews with students and staff experienced in S&S due to their professions. The study also used Laurea University of Applied Sciences’ (Laurea) S&S reports, which have a variety of S&S events from 28 October 2020 to 20 December 2021. Both data sets were analyzed using qualitative theory-driven content analysis.

Findings

Safety risks at schools are mainly constructed through the negative psychosocial atmosphere and lack of safety knowledge and/or skills. There is a need for safety training covering key topics such as crime prevention, violence, fire safety and understanding inclusion and diversity.

Practical implications

The study proposes a new risk-based training and development management model for school management and the planning of training activities.

Social implications

The analysis offers valuable perceptions of the S&S challenges of educational institutions, which can be used as a starting point to enhance overall educational quality and safety.

Originality/value

This paper provides a novel way of improving the safety of education by approaching training needs from a risk assessment perspective.
General and specific effects of foundation species on the structure of alpine‐fellfield communities in the Taisetsu Mountains, northern Japan
Authors: Kikvidze Zaal , Kudo Gaku , Suzuki Maki , Shimono Yoshiko , Sukeno Mikio
Published: June 2024

The great majority of studies on foundation species focused on a single dominant plant in a community, while more than one such species can often coexist and compete for space and limited resources. Morphologically different coexisting foundation species can create diverse niches occupied by different subsets of beneficiary species. To test this hypothesis, we sampled alpine plant communities at exposed fellfields in alpine zone, in the Taisetsu Mountains (Hokkaido, northern Japan), with coexisting putative foundation species Pinus pumila (evergreen shrub) and Diapensia lapponica (evergreen cushion‐forming shrub), and analyzed their spatial relationships with other plants. Preliminary vegetation survey indicated that fruticose lichens and Loiseleuria procumbens (evergreen mat‐forming shrub) might also act as a foundation species; thus, we included them in our analyses. The coexisting foundation species had both general as well as specific effects on plant community structure. Namely, almost all the members of the community aggregated spatially with lichens, while the other foundation species were spatially segregated from each other. These foundation plants associated with different members of the community, thus showing species‐specific effects on the community structure. Blooming species showed even stronger patterns of species‐specific spatial associations, suggesting that foundation species had beneficial effects on their associated species. We conclude that the focus on coexisting foundation species can reveal important details of community structure which would be hidden if we treated all species as equal members of the community. Studying the effects of coexisting foundation species could greatly advance our understanding of how species diversity functions in plant communities.
Changes in the prevalence of maternal chronic conditions during pregnancy: A nationwide age–period–cohort analysis
Authors: Lundborg Louise , Ananth Cande V. , Joseph K. S. , Cnattingius Sven , Razaz Neda
Published: June 2024

Objective

To estimate temporal changes in the prevalence of pre‐existing chronic conditions among pregnant women in Sweden and evaluate the extent to which secular changes in maternal age, birth cohorts and obesity are associated with these trends.

Design

Population‐based cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Sweden, 2002–2019.

Population

All women (aged 15–49 years) who delivered in Sweden (2002–2019).

Methods

An age–period–cohort analysis was used to evaluate the effects of age, calendar periods, and birth cohorts on the observed temporal trends.

Main outcome measures

Pre‐existing chronic conditions, including 17 disease categories of physical and psychiatric health conditions recorded within 5 years before childbirth, presented as prevalence rates and rate ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Temporal trends were also adjusted for pre‐pregnancy body mass index (BMI) and the mother's country of birth.

Results

The overall prevalence of at least one pre‐existing chronic condition was 8.7% (147 458 of 1 703 731 women). The rates of pre‐existing chronic conditions in pregnancy increased threefold between 2002–2006 and 2016–2019 (RR 2.82, 95% CI 2.77–2.87). Rates of psychiatric (RR 3.80, 95% CI 3.71–3.89), circulatory/metabolic (RR 1.62, 95% CI 1.55–1.71), autoimmune/neurological (RR 1.69, 95% CI 1.61–1.78) and other (RR 2.10, 95% CI 1.99–2.22) conditions increased substantially from 2002–2006 to 2016–2019. However, these increasing rates were less pronounced between 2012–2015 and 2016–2019. No birth cohort effect was evident for any of the pre‐existing chronic conditions. Adjusting for secular changes in obesity and the mother's country of birth did not affect these associations.

Conclusions

The burden of pre‐existing chronic conditions in pregnancy in Sweden increased from 2002 to 2019. This increase may be associated with the improved reporting of diagnoses and advancements in chronic condition treatment among women, potentially enhancing their fecundity.
Survival outcome of esophagectomy and chemoradiotherapy for resectable esophageal squamous cell carcinoma in patients >75 years of age
Authors: Mayanagi Shuhei , Inoue Masazumi , Tokizawa Kazunori , Fushiki Kunihiro , Tsushima Takahiro , Yokota Tomoya , Yamazaki Kentaro , Yasui Hirofumi , Tsubosa Yasuhiro
Published: June 2024

Background

The gold standard for resectable, locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is surgery‐based treatment; however, it is unclear whether esophagectomy or chemoradiotherapy is suitable for older patients. This retrospective study aimed to identify the treatment outcomes of surgery‐based therapy versus definitive chemoradiotherapy (dCRT) as an initial treatment for older patients with resectable, locally advanced ESCC.

Methods

Data from 434 patients who received radical treatment for resectable, locally advanced ESCC were collected from January 2011 to December 2020. Of the patients >75 years of age, 49 underwent radical esophagectomy and 26 received dCRT. Survival was compared between the surgery and dCRT groups.

Results

The mean ages of the surgery and chemoradiotherapy groups were 77.3 and 78.8 years, respectively. Differences in overall survival (OS) between the two groups were not statistically significant (3‐year OS: surgery 66.2%, dCRT 55.7%, p = 0.236). Multivariate analysis for OS showed a hazard ratio of 1.229 for dCRT versus surgery (90% confidence interval 0.681–2.217). OS did not differ between the groups in any of the performance statuses. For patients who were able to receive chemotherapy using fluorouracil and cisplatin, OS tended to be better in the surgery group, but the difference was not statistically significant (3‐year OS: surgery 68.1%, dCRT 51.8%, p = 0.117).

Conclusions

There was no clear difference in survival outcome between surgery‐based therapy and dCRT as an initial treatment for esophageal cancer in older patients. Either treatment may be an option for older patients.
Suitability of frozen cell pellets from cytology specimens for the Amoy 9‐in‐1 assay in patients with non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Kodama Hiroaki , Murakami Haruyasu , Mamesaya Nobuaki , Kobayashi Haruki , Omori Shota , Wakuda Kazushige , Ko Ryo , Ono Akira , Kenmotsu Hirotsugu , Naito Tateaki , Matsumoto Shingo , Goto Koichi , Shimizu Tetsuo , Gon Yasuhiro , Takahashi Toshiaki
Published: June 2024

Background

The AmoyDx Pan lung cancer PCR panel (AmoyDx PLC panel) has been approved as a companion diagnostic tool for multiple anticancer agents in patients with non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). However, the suitability of cytology specimens as samples for the AmoyDx PLC panel remains unclear. We evaluated the performance of frozen cell pellets from cytology specimens (FCPs) in the Amoy 9‐in‐1 assay, a preapproval assay of the AmoyDx PLC panel.

Methods

We retrospectively collected data of NSCLC patients enrolled in LC‐SCRUM‐Asia from the Shizuoka Cancer Center between September 2019 and May 2021.

Results

A total of 49 cases submitted FCPs for evaluation of oncogenic driver alterations and were assessed using Amoy 9‐in‐1 and next‐generation sequencing (NGS) assays. The success rates of DNA and RNA analyses using the Amoy 9‐in‐1 were both 100%, compared with 86% and 45%, respectively, using NGS assays. Oncogenic driver alterations were detected in 27 (55%) and 23 (47%) patients using Amoy 9‐in‐1 and NGS, respectively. No inconsistent results were observed among 19 cases in which both assays showed successful detection. In the remaining 30 cases, 10 had inconsistent results: nine oncogenic driver alterations (3 MET, 2 ALK, 2 ROS1, and 2 KRAS) were detectable only in Amoy 9‐in‐1, and one epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation was detectable only in NGS.

Conclusion

FCPs can be successfully used in the AmoyDx PLC panel, with higher success rate compared with the NGS assay. The AmoyDx PLC panel may be an option in cases when insufficient tissue sample is available for the NGS assay.
Global, interhemispheric and intrahemispheric functional connection patterns in male adults with alcohol use disorder
Authors: Wei Yarui , Wang Weijian , Kang Yimeng , Niu Xiaoyu , Zhang Zanxia , Li Shujian , Han Shaoqiang , Cheng Jingliang , Zhang Yong
Published: June 2024

A growing body of evidence indicates the existence of abnormal local and long‐range functional connection patterns in patients with alcohol use disorder (AUD). However, it has yet to be established whether AUD is associated with abnormal interhemispheric and intrahemispheric functional connection patterns. In the present study, we analysed resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging data from 55 individuals with AUD and 32 healthy nonalcohol users. For each subject, whole‐brain functional connectivity density (FCD) was decomposed into ipsilateral and contralateral parts. Correlation analysis was performed between abnormal FCD and a range of clinical measurements in the AUD group. Compared with healthy controls, the AUD group exhibited a reduced global FCD in the anterior and middle cingulate gyri, prefrontal cortex and thalamus, along with an enhanced global FCD in the temporal, parietal and occipital cortices. Abnormal interhemispheric and intrahemispheric FCD patterns were also detected in the AUD group. Furthermore, abnormal global, contralateral and ipsilateral FCD data were correlated with the mean amount of pure alcohol and the severity of alcohol addiction in the AUD group. Collectively, our findings indicate that global, interhemispheric and intrahemispheric FCD may represent a robust method to detect abnormal functional connection patterns in AUD; this may help us to identify the neural substrates and therapeutic targets of AUD.
Ensartinib in the treatment of anaplastic lymphoma kinase‐positive locally advanced or metastatic patients with lung squamous or adenosquamous carcinoma: A real‐world, retrospective study
Authors: Ding Lieming , Yuan Xiaobin , Wang Yang , Yang Min , Wu Pengxiang , Chen Hui , Yun Yu , Shen Zhilin , Ji Dong , Ma Yongbin
Published: June 2024

Aim

To report the efficacy and safety of ensartinib, an anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) inhibitor, in treating patients with ALK‐positive advanced lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) or lung adenosquamous carcinoma (LASC) in China.

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed data for 36 advanced‐stage patients with ALK‐positive LUSC (cohort A) and 13 patients with ALK‐positive LASC (cohort B) between December 16, 2020 and December 16, 2021. All patients received once‐daily ensartinib 225 mg. Outcome analysis included the demographic characteristics, tumor response, progression‐free survival (PFS), and treatment‐related adverse events (TRAE).

Results

Among the 49 patients, the majority were under 65 years old (73.5%), non‐smokers (85.7%), had an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status of 0–1 (77.6%), and were at stage IV (71.4%). All patients were included in the efficacy and safety analysis. Seven PFS events were reported in cohort A while no patients experienced PFS events in cohort B. The median PFS was not estimable for both cohorts. In cohort A, the objective response rate (ORR) was 63.9%, and the disease control rate (DCR) was 83.3%. In the cohort B, the ORR was 76.9% and the DCR was 100.0%. Rash was the only TRAE reported in the cohort A (8.3%) and cohort B (23.1%). No patients had grade 3 or higher TRAE.

Conclusion

Ensartinib has been tentatively proven favorable efficacy and tolerability in the treatment of patients with ALK‐positive advanced LUSC or LASC in the real‐world. However, confirmatory studies are still needed in larger sample sizes.
Effects of cyclic antimicrobial lipopeptides from Bacillus subtilis on growth performance, intestinal morphology, and cecal gene expression and microbiota community in broilers
Authors: Chen Hsiu‐Wei , Yu Yu‐Hsiang
Published: June 2024

This study investigated the effects of cyclic antimicrobial lipopeptides (CLPs) from Bacillus subtilis on the growth performance, gut morphology, and cecal gene expression and microbiota in broilers; 120 1‐day‐old unsexed Arbor Acres chicks were randomly divided into four groups, with six replicates in each group and five broilers per cage. These groups were fed a basal diet (C), basal diet plus 10‐mg enramycin/kg (E), and basal diet plus 51‐mg CLPs/kg (L) or 102‐mg CLPs/kg (H). The results indicated that CLP supplementation linearly increased the body weight compared with the C group at 35 days of age. Between 15 and 35 days and 1 and 35 days of age, CLP supplementation linearly increased the average daily gain compared with the C group. The duodenal villus height was significantly increased in the H group compared with the C and E groups. In the cecum, CLP supplementation linearly increased SOD and ZO‐1 mRNA expression compared with the C group. β diversity of microbiota indicated distinct clusters between the groups. CLP supplementation linearly increased the abundance of the genus Lactobacillus in the cecal digesta compared with the C group. These results demonstrate that B. subtilis–produced CLPs dose‐dependently increase broilers' growth performance, improve their gut morphology, and modulate their gut microbiota.
The clinical spectrum of HbSC sickle cell disease‐not a benign condition
Authors: Nelson M. , Noisette L. , Pugh N. , Gordeuk V. , Hsu L. L. , Wun T. , Shah N. , Glassberg J. , Kutlar A. , Hankins J. S. , King A. A. , Brambilla D. , Kanter J.
Published: June 2024

Sickle cell disease (SCD) includes a group of heterogenous disorders that result in significant morbidities. HbSS is the most common type of SCD and HbSC is the second most common type of SCD. The prevalence of HbSC disease in the United States and United Kingdom is ~1 in 7174 births and 1 in 6174 births respectively. Despite its frequency, however, HbSC disease has been insufficiently studied and was historically categorized as a more ‘mild’ form of SCD. We conducted this study of HbSC disease as part of the NHLBI funded Sickle Cell Disease Implementation Consortium (SCDIC). The SCDIC registry included 2282 individuals with SCD, ages 15–45 years of whom 502 (22%) had HbSC disease. Compared with people with sickle cell anaemia (SCA), the study found that people with HbSC disease had a higher frequency of splenomegaly (n (%) = 169 (33.7) vs. 392 (22.1)) and retinopathy (n (%) = 116 (23.1) vs. 189 (10.6)). A Many people with HbSC also had avascular necrosis (n (%) = 112 (22.3)), pulmonary embolism (n (%) = 43 (8.6)) and acute chest syndrome (n (%) = 228 (45.4)) demonstrating significant disease severity. HbSC disease is more clinically severe than was previously recognized and deserves additional evaluation and targeted treatments.
Trophoblast cell surface antigen‐2: a promising new biomarker and potential therapeutic target in penile squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Weiten Richard , Storz Enno , Kessler Carolina , Sperber Laurenz , Spohn Hanna Elisa , Pfister David , Nestler Tim , Tolkach Yuri , Linden Friederike , Wirtz Ralph , von Brandenstein Melanie , Krausewitz Philipp , Heidenreich Axel
Published: June 2024

Objective

To evaluate the potential utility of antibody‐drug conjugates targeting trophoblast cell surface antigen‐2 (TROP‐2) in patients with primary penile squamous cell carcinoma (PSCC), patients with recurrence (REC cohort), and patient‐matched distant metastases (MET cohort), and to assess the potential use of TROP‐2 as a predictive non‐invasive biomarker in PSCC.

Methods

A cohort comprising a PRIM (n = 37), REC (n = 5) and MET subcohort (n = 7), with MET including lymph node and lung metastases, was analysed using quantitative real‐time PCR, ELISA and immunohistochemical staining with evaluation of H‐score.

Results

TROP‐2 mRNA and serum protein levels were significantly increased in primary and recurrent PSCC compared to cancer‐free controls (both P < 0.001). Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that most of the PRIM cohort (n = 34/37, median H‐score 260, interquartile range [IQR] 210–300), as well as all patients in the REC (median [IQR] H‐score 200 [165–290]) and MET cohorts (median [IQR] H‐score 280 [260–300]) exhibited moderate to strong membranous TROP‐2 expression. Additionally, The H‐score (membranous TROP‐2 expression) was positively correlated with TROP‐2 mRNA (ρ = 0.69, P < 0.0001, R2 = 0.70) and protein levels (ρ = 0.86, P < 0.0001, R2 = 0.59), indicating its potential as a non‐invasive biomarker in PSCC.

Conclusion

In summary, our results support further studies on TROP‐2 as a diagnostic and therapeutic target in primary, recurrent and metastatic PSCC.
Prevalence and severity of periodontal disease in the host community and Rohingya refugees living in camps in Bangladesh
Authors: Zaheer Khaleda , Hossain Mohammad Jonayed , Isha Israt , Delgado‐Angulo Elsa , Nibali Luigi
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To assess the prevalence and severity of periodontal disease of the Rohingya refugees and host community in Bangladesh.

Methods

An unpublished pilot was conducted for the sample size calculation. Two‐stage cluster sampling method was used to select 50 participants from refugee camps and 50 from the host community. Structured questionnaire and periodontal examination were completed. Composite measures of periodontal disease were based on the World Workshop (WW) and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention‐American Academy of Periodontology. Linear regression models, for clinical attachment level and periodontal pocket depth (PPD) and ordered logistic regression models, for composite measures, were fitted to test the association of periodontal measures and refugee status.

Results

Compared to the host community, a smaller percentage of refugees reported good oral health‐related behaviours. Refugees exhibited lower levels of bleeding on probing but higher PPD, hence a higher proportion had severe stages of periodontitis.

As per the WW, prevalence of periodontal disease was 88% and 100% in the host and refugee groups, respectively. In the unadjusted models, refugees were three times more likely to have severe stages of periodontitis; this association was attenuated when adjusted for confounders (sociodemographic variables and oral health‐related behaviours).

Conclusions

Prevalence of periodontitis was high both in the host community and refugees. The refugees exhibited a more severe disease profile. The oral health of both groups is under‐researched impacting the response of the health system. Large‐scale research systematically exploring the oral health of both groups will inform the design and delivery of community‐based interventions.
Frequency of gastroschisis and omphalocele and possible influence of maternal folic acid supplementation. A narrative review
Authors: González‐Ramos Laura , Martínez‐Sanz Elena , García‐Serradilla Moisés , García‐de‐Pereda Miquel , Maldonado Estela
Published: June 2024

There is an increase in the worldwide prevalence of congenital abdominal wall defects (CAWD), with gastroschisis (GS) and omphalocele (OC) being the most common. It is widely accepted that folic acid supplementation (FAS) in the maternal diet decreases the incidence of anomalies such as neural tube defects, but there is controversy regarding the possible beneficial role for other congenital malformations. Several epidemiological studies raise controversy regarding a possible relationship between vitamin supplementation with the occurrence of abdominal wall malformations. The aim of the present study is to obtain an updated review of the global frequency of CAWD in neonates and the relationship with FAS in the mothers. For this we have carried out a systematic search of epidemiological studies in different article databases between 2011 and 2022. The analysis of 25 studies conducted in different countries where cases of OC and/or GS are registered directly or together with other congenital defects shows that 60% inquire into the relationship of FAS with the incidence of CAWD. Half of them proposes a beneficial effect of FAS and the other half find no association, concluding that there is no unanimous evidence that FAS in the maternal diet decreases the incidence of CAWD. However, it seems that an influential factor to take into account is the nutritional habits of the mothers.
Exosomes on the development and progression of renal fibrosis
Authors: Wang Peihan , Chen Wu , li Bojun , Yang Songyuan , Li Wei , Zhao Sheng , Ning Jinzhuo , Zhou Xiangjun , Cheng Fan
Published: June 2024

Renal fibrosis is a prevalent pathological alteration that occurs throughout the progression of primary and secondary renal disorders towards end‐stage renal disease. As a complex and irreversible pathophysiological phenomenon, it includes a sequence of intricate regulatory processes at the molecular and cellular levels. Exosomes are a distinct category of extracellular vesicles that play a crucial role in facilitating intercellular communication. Multiple pathways are regulated by exosomes produced by various cell types, including tubular epithelial cells and mesenchymal stem cells, in the context of renal fibrosis. Furthermore, research has shown that exosomes present in bodily fluids, including urine and blood, may be indicators of renal fibrosis. However, the regulatory mechanism of exosomes in renal fibrosis has not been fully elucidated. This article reviewed and analysed the various mechanisms by which exosomes regulate renal fibrosis, which may provide new ideas for further study of the pathophysiological process of renal fibrosis and targeted treatment of renal fibrosis with exosomes.
A review of the latest real‐world evidence studies in diabetic kidney disease: What have we learned about clinical practice and the clinical effectiveness of interventions?
Authors: Bonnet Fabrice , Cooper Mark E. , Koppe Laetitia , Fouque Denis , Candido Riccardo
Published: June 2024

Diabetic nephropathy, also known as diabetic kidney disease (DKD), remains a challenge in clinical practice as this is the major cause of kidney failure worldwide. Clinical trials do not answer all the questions raised in clinical practice and real‐world evidence provides complementary insights from randomized controlled trials. Real‐life longitudinal data highlight the need for improved screening and management of diabetic nephropathy in primary care. Adherence to the recommended guidelines for comprehensive care appears to be suboptimal in clinical practice in patients with DKD. Barriers to the initiation of sodium‐glucose cotransporter‐2 (SGLT2) inhibitors for patients with DKD persist in clinical practice, in particular for the elderly. Attainment of blood pressure targets often remains an issue. Initiation of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RAs) in routine clinical practice is associated with a reduced risk of albuminuria progression and a possible beneficial effect on kidney function. Real‐world evidence confirms a beneficial effect of SGLT2 inhibitors on the decline of glomerular filtration, even in the absence of albuminuria, with a lower risk of acute kidney injury events compared to GLP‐1RA use. In addition, SGLT2 inhibitors confer a lower risk of hyperkalaemia after initiation compared with dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors in patients with DKD. Data from a large population indicate that diuretic treatment increases the risk of a significant decline in glomerular filtration rate in the first few weeks of treatment after SGLT2 inhibitor initiation. The perspective for a global approach targeting multifaceted criteria for diabetic individuals with DKD is emerging based on real‐world evidence but there is still a long way to go to achieve this goal.
Open reduction and internal fixation of paediatric maxillozygomatic complex fractures: An 11‐year multicentric retrospective study
Authors: Roccia Fabio , Sobrero Federica , Strada Carlo , Bottini Gian Battista , Goetzinger Maximilian , Samieirad Sahand , Vesnaver Aleš , Birk Anže , de Oliveira Gorla Luis Fernando , Pereira‐Filho Valfrido Antonio , Dediol Emil , Kos Boris , Pechalova Petia , Sapundzhiev Angel , Lazíc Marko , Konstantinovic Vitomir S. , Dubron Kathia , Politis Constantinus , Demo Paolo Garzino , Sivrić Anamaria , Kordić Mario , Rahman Sajjad Abdur , Rahman Tabishur , Sohal Karpal Singh , Aladelusi Timothy , Rae Euan , Laverick Sean
Published: June 2024

Background/aim

Paediatric maxillozygomatic complex (MZC) fractures are uncommon, and there is a scarcity of data regarding their surgical treatment. The aim of this study was to analyse choices and outcomes of open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) for MZC fractures among 14 maxillofacial centers around the world.

Materials and Methods

This multicentric retrospective observational study included patients ≤16 years of age with quadripod MZC fractures treated with ORIF from January 2011 and December 2022. The following data were collected: age, gender, dentition stage (deciduous, mixed, and permanent), cause of injury, type of fracture, surgical approach, site of osteosynthesis (infraorbital rim, zygomaticomaxillary buttress, frontozygomatic, and zygomaticotemporal sutures), material (titanium or resorbable) and number of plates used, and outcome. The minimum follow‐up was 6 months. Statistical analyses were performed with Fisher's exact test or chi‐squared test, as appropriate.

Results

Sixty‐four patients (mean age, 12.3 years) with quadripod MZC fractures were included. Seventy‐two percent of patients received a single‐point fixation. The zygomaticomaxillary buttress was the most common site for fixation, both in single‐point and two‐point fixation schemes, especially in combination with the frontozygomatic suture. Increasing age was associated with a higher rate of plate removal (p < .001). Postoperative complications included 5 (7.8%) cases of wound infections, 2 (3.1%) infraorbital paraesthesia, 1 (1.6%) ectropion. Residual facial asymmetry was found in 5 (7.8%) patients and was not associated with the type of fixation (p > .05).

Conclusions

This study highlights the possibility of using ORIF, even with a single point of fixation, for the treatment of displaced quadripod MZC fractures in the paediatric population. The zygomaticomaxillary buttress was the preferred site of fixation and allowed for adequate stabilization with no external scars and a low risk of tooth damage. Future prospective studies with long‐term follow‐up are needed to establish definitive surgical protocols and clarify the surgical decision‐making.
Repellent potential of agroecological extracts: Exploring their efficacy against the leaf‐cutting ant Acromyrmex subterraneus in the laboratory
Authors: Novato Thiago , Soldati Gustavo Taboada , Chedier Luciana Moreira , Lopes Juliane F.S.
Published: June 2024

The increasing restrictions on commercial toxic baits for controlling leaf‐cutting ants have started a “gold rush” for alternative compounds, with agroecological extracts emerging as a promising option. Here, we tested for the first time the repellent effects of concentrated and diluted ant extracts and cow urine solution on laboratory colonies of Acromyrmex subterraneus (Forel) (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). The agroecological extracts preparation and application followed the information provided by peasants from the Movimento dos Trabalhadores Rurais Sem Terra in Brazil who carry out agroecology. First, we applied the agroecological extracts in the middle segment of the upper path of a foraging trail to determine whether they act as a chemical barrier. All agroecological extracts induced the deviation of the foraging flow from the upper path to the lateral path. However, only the concentrated ant extract reduced the leaf delivery rate. Also, we applied the agroecological extracts directly on the leaf disks and conducted a paired selection test. The proportion of transported leaf disks with concentrated ant extract and cow urine solution was lower than that of control disks. We suggest that the observed repellent efficacy of the concentrated ant extract may stem from its content of chemical compounds belonging to the same chemical group as the alarm pheromones found by other Acromyrmex species. As for the cow urine solution, we attribute its repellent effect to the presence of urea. Our findings highlight a significant repellent potential of the concentrated ant extract and cow urine solution for leaf‐cutting ants, which may be applied both on foraging trails and on leaves of cultivated plants.