bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Naturally occurring Alzheimer’s disease in rhesus monkeys
Authors: Li Zhenhui , He Xiaping , Wu Shihao , Huang Rongyao , Li Hao , Wang Zhengbo , Wang Limin , Qin Dongdong , Kong Yu , Guo Yingqi , Ma Xia , Turck Christoph W. , Xiong Zhiqi , Wang Wenchao , Hu Xintian
Published: October 2022

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disease. To date, its cause is unclear and there are no effective treatments or preventive measures. Despite there are accumulating evidences for the existence of AD pathological hallmarks in the brain of aging rhesus monkeys, it remains a mainstream notion that monkeys do not develop AD naturally. This is an important issue because it will determine how we use monkeys in AD studies. To settle down this issue, a group (n=10) of aged rhesus monkeys 26 years old or above went through a systematic AD screening procedure in this study. Three of these monkeys showed severe memory impairments (SMI) after evaluated with a classic working memory test. Further behavioral testing revealed that the SMI monkeys also exhibited apathy-like behavior, which is another core AD clinical symptom. In addition to the cognitive deficits, two of the three SMI monkeys developed all of the three AD pathological hallmarks, including neurofibrillary tangles, senile plaques and neuronal loss. According to the diagnostic criteria of human AD, the two SMI monkeys were clearly naturally occurring AD monkeys. These results suggest that AD is not a uniquely human disease and monkeys have great potential for the development of much needed etiological AD models, which are vital for better understanding of developmental process of AD and the base of identification of early diagnostic biomarkers and effective therapeutic targets of AD.
Short-range interactions between fibrocytes and CD8+T cells in COPD bronchial inflammatory response
Authors: Eyraud Edmée , Maurat Elise , Sac-Epée Jean-Marc , Henrot Pauline , Zysman Maeva , Esteves Pauline , Trian Thomas , Dupuy Jean-William , Leipold Alexander , Saliba Antoine-Emmanuel , Bégueret Hugues , Girodet Pierre-Oliver , Thumerel Matthieu , Hustache-Castaing Romain , Marthan Roger , Levet Florian , Vallois Pierre , Contin-Bordes Cécile , Berger Patrick , Dupin Isabelle
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Bronchi of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are the site of extensive cell infiltration, allowing persistent contacts between resident cells and immune cells. Tissue fibrocytes interaction with CD8+T cells and its consequences were investigated using a combination ofin situ,in vitroexperiments and mathematical modeling. We show that fibrocytes and CD8+T cells are found in vicinity in distal airways and that potential interactions are more frequent in tissues from COPD patients compared to those of control subjects. Increased proximity and clusterization between CD8+T cells and fibrocytes are associated with altered lung function. Tissular CD8+T cells from COPD patients promote fibrocyte chemotaxis via the CXCL8-CXCR1/2 axis. Live imaging shows that CD8+T cells establish short-term interactions with fibrocytes, that trigger CD8+T cell proliferation in a CD54– and CD86-dependent manner, pro-inflammatory cytokines production, CD8+T cell cytotoxic activity against bronchial epithelial cells and fibrocyte immunomodulatory properties. We defined a computational model describing these intercellular interactions and calibrated the parameters based on our experimental measurements. We show the model’s ability to reproduce histological ex vivo characteristics, and observe an important contribution of fibrocyte-mediated CD8+T cell proliferation in COPD development. Using the model to test therapeutic scenarios, we predict a recovery time of several years, and the failure of targeting chemotaxis or interacting processes. Altogether, our study reveals that local interactions between fibrocytes and CD8+T cells could jeopardize the balance between protective immunity and chronic inflammation in bronchi of COPD patients.
Genome-wide identification and analysis of analysis of BURP genes inTriticum aestivum
Authors: Zhu Wengen
Published: October 2022

Plant-specific BURP genes are involved in most aspects of plant development and in diverse stress responses. However, there has been no comprehensive and systematic research on the wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) BURP gene family. We comprehensively identified 54 BURP genes in wheat and 12, 23, and 32 BURP genes, respectively, in its three progenitor species,Triticum urartu, Aegilops tauschii,andTriticum dicoccoides. By phylogenetic analysis, we classified the wheat BURP genes into five subfamilies: BURP VI, BURP VII, RD22-like, PG1β-like, and the newly defined BURP VIII. BURP genes were distributed unevenly on 20 chromosomes, and 33 (61%) were anchored in the distal chromosome segments. Analysis of gene duplication events showed that segmental duplication was the main contributor to the expansion of this gene family in wheat. Assessment of tissue-specific and stress-induced expression indicated that most BURP members are heavily involved in plant development and responses to various stress conditions. RNA-seq data revealed tenTaBURPgenes expressed specifically in spikes.
Structural and functional basis of the universal transcription factor NusG pro-pausing activity inMycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Delbeau Madeleine , Omollo Expery O. , Froom Ruby , Koh Steven , Mooney Rachel A. , Lilic Mirjana , Brewer Joshua J. , Rock Jeremy , Darst Seth A. , Campbell Elizabeth A. , Landick Robert
Published: October 2022

Transcriptional pauses mediate regulation of RNA biogenesis. DNA-encoded pause signals trigger elemental pausing by stabilizing a half-translocated (RNA-not-DNA) state and by promoting RNAP swiveling that other factors can enhance. The universal transcription factor NusG (Spt5 in eukaryotes and archaea) N-terminal domain (NGN) modulates pausing through contacts to RNAP and DNA. Pro-pausing NusGs (e.g.,Bacillus subtilis) enhance some pauses whereas anti-pausing NusGs (e.g.,Escherichia coli) suppress some pauses. Little is known about pausing and NusG in the human pathogenMycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). Using biochemistry and cryo-electron microscopy, we show thatMtbNusG is a pro-pausing NusG that captures paused, swiveled RNAP by contacts to the RNAP protrusion and to a nontemplate strand–DNA wedge inserted between the NGN and the RNAP gate loop. On the other hand, we find that anti-pausingE. coliNGN contacts the RNAP gate loop to inhibit swiveling and pausing ofMtbRNAP. Using CRISPR-mediated mycobacterial genetics, we show that a pro-pausing NGN is required to support robust mycobacterial growth. Our results define an essential function of NusG in mycobacteria and the structural basis of pro-vs. anti-pausing NusG activity with broad implications for NusG function in all domains of life.
T cell subsets in chronic hepatitis C patients genotype 4 who achieved SVR following DAAs Therapy
Authors: Shiha Gamal , Soliman Reham , Hassan Ayman A , Mikhail Nabiel NH , Nabil Ahmed , Saleh Laila M , Sayed Doaa A , Eslam Mohamed
Published: October 2022

Background

T cells are the primary effector cells that mediate viral clearance in spontaneous recovery from HCV infection and T cell dysfunction is a hallmark of progression to chronic HCV infection.

Material and methods

This study included 49 well charcterised HCV genotype 4-infected patients at Egyptian Liver Research Institute and Hospital (ELRIAH), Mansoura, Egypt, who were enrolled to receive direct acting antiviral therapy for hepatitis C. Immuno-phenotyping was performed to assess the expression of multiple T cell lineage, activation and inhibitory receptors. This was done before treatment, during treatment, at end of treatment and one year after treatment. 50 patients were also enrolled as control.

Results

Our data showed, significant increase in the percentages of CD8+ cells as compared to control group. The percentages of PD-1 expression on the CD8+ T-cell population were signifecntly elevated in patients before treatment (p<0.001). Significant increase in Treg (CD4+CD25hFoxP3+) subsets was noticed in comparison with control pateints.

The expression of the inhibitory and activated markers in CD8+ T-cells was markedly reduced but more obvios in exhausted cytotoxic T cells compared to baseline finding (p<0.001). exhausted (PD1+CD8+) T-cells from HCV+ individuals reduced markedly after 4 weeks of DAA therapy (by 3 folds, p <0.001). Intereatingly it started to increase gradually again at the end of treatment and after 1 year but the increase doesn’t reach levels noticed in healthy control subjects.

Conclusion

Understanding the mechanisms of immune dysfunction and barriers to immune restoration after HCV cure will aid in better understanding of the remaining negative long-term health outcomes for HCV patients and the possibility of HCC development.
Treatment of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis with recombinant Orosomucoid 2, an acute phase protein that attenuates the Erk1/2-PPARγ-Cd36 signaling pathway
Authors: Li Li , Sun Haoming , Chen Jionghao , Ding Cong , Yang Xiaojun , Han Hua , Sun Qingzhu
Published: October 2022

Therapeutic administration of recombinant proteins has been used for the treatment of various diseases in multiple studies. Herein, we investigated the function of the acute phase protein Orosomucoid 2 (Orm2), which is mainly secreted by hepatocytes, and evaluated its potential as a therapeutic strategy for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). We here revealed that a high expression of Orm2 protected mice from high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity. The pharmacological administration of recombinant ORM2 protein attenuated hepatic steatosis, inflammation, hepatocyte injury, and fibrosis in mouse livers, which suffered NAFLD and NASH under dietary challenge conditions. Orm2 knockout mice spontaneously underwent obese after 16 weeks under normal diet. Orm2 deficiency exacerbated HFD-induced steatosis, steatohepatitis, and fibrosis in mice. Mechanistically, the deletion of Orm2 led to the activation of the Erk1/2-PPARγ-Cd36 signaling pathway, which in turn increased fatty acid uptake and absorption in hepatocytes and mice. Collectively, our results provide Orm2 is an essential factor for preventing NASH and associated NAFLD under obesity.
Cultivation of widespreadBathyarchaeiareveals a novel methyltransferase system utilizing lignin-derived aromatics
Authors: Yu Tiantian , Hu Haining , Zeng Xianhong , Wang Yinzhao , Pan Donald , Wang Fengping
Published: October 2022

Anaerobic lignin degradation is a major process in the global carbon cycle that would significantly influence estimates of carbon flux in both terrestrial and marine ecosystems. The ubiquitousBathyarchaeia, one of the most abundant taxa in marine sediments, have been proposed to be key players in this process. However, the mechanism of Bathyarchaeial lignin degradation is unclear due to the lack of cultured strains. Here we report the cultivation of CandidatusMarisediminiarchaeum ligniniphilusDL1YTT001, a Bathyarchaeial representative from nearshore marine sediments that can grow with lignin as the sole organic carbon source under mesophilic and anaerobic conditions. Strain DL1YTT001 possesses and highly expresses a novel and specific methyltransferase system for O-demethylation of lignin-derived methoxylated aromatic compounds (ArOCH3). The key gene, methyltransferase 1 (MtgB), is not homologous to any other lineages. Enzymatic activity was confirmed through the heterologous expression of the MtgB gene, showing O-demethylation activity with guaiacol as the substrate. Considering that Bathyarchaeial lineages carrying this specific methyltransferase system are widely distributed in diverse anoxic environments, especially lignin-rich nearshore sediments,Bathyarchaeia-mediated O-demethylation is likely a key step in global anaerobic lignin remineralization.
Early life low-calorie sweetener consumption impacts energy balance during adulthood
Authors: Hayes Anna M.R. , Tsan Linda , Kao Alicia E. , Schwartz Grace M. , Décarie-Spain Léa , Lauer Logan Tierno , Klug Molly E. , Schier Lindsey A. , Kanoski Scott E.
Published: October 2022

Children frequently consume beverages sweetened with either sugars (sugar-sweetened beverages; SSB) or low-calorie sweeteners (LCS). Here we evaluated the effects of habitual early life consumption of either SSB or LCS on energy balance later during adulthood. Male and female rats were provided with chow, water, and a solution containing either SSB (sucrose), LCS [acesulfame potassium (ACE-K) or stevia], or control (no solution) during the juvenile and adolescent periods (postnatal days 26-70). SSB or LCS consumption was voluntary and restricted within federal recommended daily limits. When subsequently maintained on a cafeteria-style junk food diet (CAF; various high-fat, high-sugar foods) during adulthood, ACE-K-exposed rats demonstrated reduced caloric consumption vs. controls, which contributed to lower body weights in female but not male ACE-K rats. These discrepant intake and body weight effects in male ACE-K rats are likely based on reduced gene expression of thermogenic indicators (UCP1, BMP8B) in brown adipose tissue. Female stevia-exposed rats did not differ from controls in caloric intake or body weight, yet they consumed more SSB during adult CAF exposure. No SSB-exposed rats, neither male nor female, differed from controls in adult total caloric consumption or body weight measures. Collective results reveal that early life LCS consumption alters sugar preference, body weight, and gene expression for markers of thermogenesis during adulthood, with both sex- and sweetener-dependent effects.
Saliva-based COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test: a practical and accurate alternative mass screening method
Authors: Diawara Idrissa , Ahid Samir , Jeddane Leïla , Kim Soyoun , Nejjari Chakib
Published: October 2022

As SARS-CoV-2 and its variants continue to spread, a reliable and convenient alternative to nasopharyngeal swabbing and RT-PCR testing is needed. To test the usability and performance of saliva sample collection, saliva, nasal and nasopharyngeal swab specimens were collected from a total of 338 individuals consisting of confirmed COVID-19 patients and healthy subjects. To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of self-collected and performed SARS-CoV-2 rapid antigen test on saliva and nasal swabs specimens, we compared its performance to nasopharyngeal swab specimen RT-PCR as a comparator test. In saliva specimens, the positive percent agreement was 90.14%, and the negative percent agreement was 99.61%, while in nasal swab specimens, the positive percent agreement was 91.55%, and the negative percent agreement was 100%, both meeting the sensitivity and specificity criteria required by the FDA. Therefore, when considering both the reliability and convenience of testing, we found saliva testing to be the better method for large-scale and frequent self-testing.
Quartet protein reference materials and datasets for multi-platform assessment of label-free proteomics
Authors: Tian Sha , Zhan Dongdong , Yu Ying , Liu Mingwei , Wang Yunzhi , Song Lei , Qin Zhaoyu , Li Xianju , Liu Yang , Li Yao , Ji Shuhui , Li Yan , Li Lingling , Wang Shanshan ,   Proteomic Massive Analysis and Quality Control Consortium, Zheng Yuanting , He Fuchu , Qin Jun , Ding Chen
Published: October 2022

Quantitative proteomics is an indispensable tool in life science research. However, there is a lack of reference materials for evaluating the reproducibility of label-free liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)-based measurements among different instruments and laboratories. We developed the Quartet as a proteome reference material with built-in truths, and distributed the same aliquots to 15 laboratories with nine conventional LC-MS/MS platforms across six cities in China. Relative abundance of over 12,000 proteins on 816 MS files were obtained and compared for reproducibility among the instruments and laboratories to ultimately generate proteomics benchmark datasets. There was a wide dynamic range of proteomes spanning ~7 orders of magnitude (101–108copies/cell), and the injection order had marked effects on quantitative instead of qualitative. Overall, the Quartet offers valuable standard materials and data resources for improving the quality control of proteomic analyses as well as the reproducibility and reliability of research findings.
Measuring the current state-of-the-art in lean healthcare literature from the lenses of bibliometric indicators
Authors: Santos Ana Carla de Souza Gomes dos , Reis Augusto da Cunha , Souza Cristina Gomes de , Santos Igor Leão , Ferreira Letícia Ali Figueiredo , Senna Pedro
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Lean healthcare (LHC) applies lean philosophy in the healthcare sector to promote a culture of continuous improvement through the elimination of non-value-added activities. Studies on the subject can be classified as conceptual (theoretical) or analytical (applied). Therefore, this research compares bibliometric indicators between conceptual and analytical articles on LHC.

Design/methodology/approach

For data collection, the PRISMA Protocol was employed, and 488 articles published from 2009 to 2021, indexed in the Scopus and WoS databases, were retrieved.

Findings

This study reveals how conceptual and analytical LHC studies are organized in terms of the most relevant journals, articles, institutions, countries, the total number of citations, collaboration networks (co-authorship, international collaboration network and institutional collaboration network) and main co-words.

Originality/value

Only four papers conducting bibliometric analysis on LHC studies were identified in the Scopus and Web of Science databases. In addition, none of these papers compared conceptual and analytical bibliometric indicators to reveal the evolution, organization and trends of each category. Therefore, this work is not only the first to make this comparison but also the first to analyze the collaboration between authors, institutions and countries in relation to studies on LHC. The analyses performed in this work allow one new possible understanding, by researchers and health professionals, of the literature behavior in this field of study.
Google SEO score and accessibility rank on the American University Libraries’ websites: one comparative analysis
Authors: Tavosi Maryam , Naghshineh Nader
Published: October 2022

Purpose

This study aims to present a comparative study of university library websites (in the USA) from the standpoint of “Google SEO” and “Accessibility”. Furthermore, correlation analysis between these two done.

Design/methodology/approach

By opting for a webometric approach, the present study analyzed university library websites in the USA. The Lighthouse add-on for the Google Chrome browser has been used as a data collection tool, by writing and implementing a computer program in Bash language automatically (May 2020). Data analysis tools used were “Libre-Office-Calc”, “SPSS22” and “Excel”.

Findings

In all 81 university library websites in the USA, Google search engine optimization (SEO) scores have been observed the amount higher than 60 (Total Score = 100). The accessibility rank obtained lay between 0.56 and 1 (Total Score = 1). A weak correlation relationship between “SEO score” and “accessibility rank” (P-value = 0.02, Spearman Correlation Coefficient = 0.345) was observed. This weak relationship can be explained due to the impact of several components affecting Google’s SEO score, one of them being having a high “accessibility rank”.

Practical implications

Given the increasing automation of library processes, SEO tools can help libraries in achieving their digital marketing goals.

Originality/value

Accurate measurement of the Google SEO score and accessibility rank for the university library websites (in the USA) were obtained by Lighthouse add-on for Google Chrome browser. Moreover, data extraction by the implementation of one program computer without the direct observation of human resources is the innovation of this study.
Muzakki and Mustahik’s collaboration model for strengthening the fundraising capacity of Islamic social finance institutions during COVID-19
Authors: Herianingrum Sri , Widiastuti Tika , Hapsari Meri Indri , Ratnasari Ririn Tri , Firmansyah Firmansyah , Hassan Shahir Akram , Febriyanti Annisa Rahma , Amalia Rachmi Cahya , Muzakki Luthfi Akmal
Published: October 2022

Purpose

This study aims to examine how muzakki (zakat donator) and mustahik (zakat recipients) collaborated to strengthen the fundraising capability in Islamic social finance institutions (ISFIs) during the COVID-19.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a descriptive qualitative method in conjunction with interview techniques. Interviews with muzakki of various professions were conducted, as well as data from field documentation, to develop a collaborative model of muzakki and mustahik in strengthening the fundraising capacity of ISFIs.

Findings

The findings indicate that muzakki employed as civil servants, BUMN (state-owned enterprises) employees and entrepreneurs continue to pay zakat through ISFIs and support mustahik, whereas muzakki affected by the COVID-19 pandemic reduce their zakat spending. Consequently, with the collaboration of mustahik and muzakki, a framework can be developed to strengthen the strategy for raising funds for ISFIs. By empowering mustahik with businesses, ISFIs can increase the collection of zakat funds.

Research limitations/implications

The collaboration model would strengthen ISFI's ability to raise Islamic philanthropic funds and optimize their management. The basis for the regulation is contained in Law No. 23 of 2011 which allows collaboration between institutions and other stakeholders. In addition, the role of ISFIs does not end with the collection and distribution of funds, they also maintain the muzakki and mustahik's cooperation, so a significant role is required in involving muzakki and mustahik for them to collaborate and synergize, as well as improving the quality of human resource from Amil (zakat collector) to implement the strategy.

Originality/value

Few studies have been conducted in collaboration with Muzakki and Mustahik to develop models or frameworks for strengthening fundraising capabilities in ISFIs. Most of these studies are illustrative. Through collaboration between Muzakki and Mustahik, this research establishes a new model for enhancing the strategy of Islamic social finance fund raising to establish a sustainable system for ISFIs.
Smartphone use and knowledge gap hypothesis: the relationship between mobile news consumption, discussion network heterogeneity, and political knowledge
Authors: Kim Yonghwan , Chen Hsuan-Ting
Published: October 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the knowledge gap hypothesis in the context of smartphone use for news to understand whether mobile news consumption could bridge or widen the knowledge gap between people of higher and lower socioeconomic status (SES).

Design/methodology/approach

The authors examine how smartphone news consumption is associated with the knowledge gap hypothesis by analyzing a survey dataset from Hong Kong. This study focuses specifically on a moderated mediation model in which the indirect effect of mobile news consumption on political knowledge via discussion network heterogeneity is contingent on level of education.

Findings

Smartphone use for news/information was positively associated with level of discussion network heterogeneity. The indirect effect of smartphone news use on political knowledge via discussion network heterogeneity was stronger for those with lower levels of education.

Originality/value

This study advances the understanding of the role of smartphone use in contributing to the functioning of deliberative democracy as this use enhances discussion network heterogeneity and general levels of political knowledge. Moreover, our study contributes to the literature on the knowledge gap by not only examining the relationship between smartphone use, discussion heterogeneity, and political knowledge but also taking into consideration individual levels of education.
The effect of the properties of LaxNd8‒xB6 (x = 1,2,6)
Authors: Bozada Cengiz
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Nanocrystalline LaB6, NdB6, Nd-doped LaB6 and La-doped NdB6 have been studied using the density functional theory (DFT) to study their electronic, optical and mechanical characteristics. The purpose of this paper is to address this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

Nanocrystalline LaB6, NdB6, Nd-doped LaB6 and La-doped NdB6 have been studied using the DFT to study their electronic, optical and mechanical characteristics. The calculated lattice constants of LaB6, NdB6, Nd-doped LaB6 and La-doped NdB6 were 4.157, 4.118, 4.267 and 4.449, respectively. The lattice constant of La7Nd1B6 was increased when Nd is doped into LaB6. B p comprised the uppermost valence bands (VBs), whereas B s comprised the lowermost conduction bands (CBs). The authors’ results showed that La doping reduced the work function of NdB6 and increased its thermionic emission characteristics.

Findings

The authors’ results showed that La doping reduced the work function of NdB6 and increased its thermionic emission characteristics.

Originality/value

The work function of LaB6 was 2.7 eV, which is higher than that of La1Nd7B6 (2.64 eV).
The impact of risk-taking and auditor characteristics on value creation in pre-Covid 19 and post-Covid 19 pandemic
Authors: Arianpoor Arash , Mizban Roghaye
Published: October 2022

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impact of risk-taking and auditor characteristics on value creation in companies listed on the Tehran Stock Exchange. In addition, it investigates the moderator role of auditor characteristics in the impact of risk-taking on value creation, especially in pre-Covid 19 and post-Covid 19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

The information about 199 company in 2014–2021 was examined. In the present study, in accordance with the related theoretical literature and the importance of auditor specialization, auditor tenure and auditor reputation, these factors were considered as the auditor characteristics.

Findings

The present findings based on the generalized least squares (GLS) method showed that risk-taking positively affects the value creation. The auditor characteristics (auditor specialization, auditor tenure and auditor reputation) have a significant positive effect on the value creation. Furthermore, the auditor characteristics enhance the impact of risk-taking on value creation. The results of generalized method of moments method and robust regression analysis are consistent with the GLS results. To take into account the Covid-19 conditions, the data were divided into pre-Covid-19 and post-Covid-19 years. The results showed that auditor characteristics moderate the impact of risk-taking on value creation in pre-Covid 19 and post-Covid 19.

Originality/value

The study highlights the role of auditor characteristics in the value creation, especially in the emerging market. Given that Covid-19 has seriously damaged global economic well-being and has put companies at a double risk, the present findings can be useful for managers, investors and the international community, and help company managers make risk-taking policies and select auditors with appropriate characteristics.
The mediating role of trait anxiety in the impact of digital competence perception on job insecurity: an application for hotel managers
Authors: Kemer Ebru , Kırıcı Tekeli Ezgi
Published: October 2022

Purpose

The main purpose of the study is to determine the mediating role of trait anxiety in the relationship between hotel managers’ perceptions of digital competence in the Cappadocia Region and their perceptions of job insecurity.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, which is based on quantitative research, a cross-sectional design was used. The seven-item digital competence scale, four-item job insecurity scale and 20-item trait anxiety scale were used to measure the level of digital competence, job insecurity and trait anxiety of hotel managers. The convenience sampling method was used in the research, and 337 questionnaires were completed by senior and junior managers who agreed to participate in the research. To test the mediating role of trait anxiety, Andrew F. Hayes’ views on the contemporary approach were taken as a basis.

Findings

The analysis results showed that digital competence had the opposite effect on job insecurity. Similarly, digital competence had the opposite effect on the level of trait anxiety. The level of trait anxiety affected the perception of job insecurity in a linear direction. As a result of the bootstrapping test, it was found that the indirect effect of trait anxiety on the relationship between digital competence and job insecurity was significant.

Research limitations/implications

The study was unable to collect data from hotels that were closed during the COVID-19 pandemic due to restrictions. Therefore, one of the limitations of the study was that it did not reach the entire population. Another limitation of the study was that the questionnaires were addressed to hotel managers in the Cappadocia Region.

Practical implications

Hotel managers’ digital skills are considered to contribute to the tourism industry by organizing and determining business strategies, work processes and employee skills. In addition, when hiring hotel managers, it is essential to ensure that they have certain skills such as compatibility with the digital age, openness to innovation and the ability to adapt the employees working in their team to the age, which helps to improve the competitiveness of the hotel industry with the world and ensure the continuity of this situation.

Originality/value

The research addressed the variables of digital competence, job insecurity and trait anxiety and collected data from hotel managers in the Cappadocia Region using a survey technique. There were few studies that addressed these variables, and the mediating effect of trait anxiety was revealed based on the contemporary approach.
Integration of historic collections can shed light on patterns of change in plant–pollinator interactions and pollination service
Authors: Rakosy Demetra , Ashman Tia‐Lynn , Zoller Leana , Stanley Aiden M. , Knight Tiffany M.
Published: October 2022

Mutualistic interactions between plants and animal pollinators are increasingly under threat through anthropogenic change, and it is critical to understand how temporal changes affect the structure and function of these ecologically important interactions.

Because the responses of plant–pollinator interactions to anthropogenic change may take place over decades, historical collections that store information across long time horizons contribute uniquely to our understanding.

In this article, we highlight several key questions related to long‐term changes in the structure and function of plant–pollinator interactions. We articulate how research could proceed rapidly via new techniques, greater integration of resources in museum collections along with coincident use of a single data source.

We acknowledge the challenges that come with using historical collections and discuss how to minimize them. We provide suggestions that will allow for full utilization of museum resources for addressing a variety of issues regarding plant–pollinator interactions.

This perspective paper aims to stimulate new integrative research aimed at understanding temporal patterns in plant–pollinator interactions.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
High‐resolution 2.5D multifocusing imaging of a crooked seismic profile in a crystalline rock environment: Results from the Larder Lake area, Ontario, Canada
Authors: Jodeiri Akbari Fam Hossein , Naghizadeh Mostafa , Smith Richard , Yilmaz Oz , Cheraghi Saeid , Rubingh Kate
Published: October 2022

A high‐resolution seismic reflection transect was acquired over a hard‐rock geological setting along an existing roadway in the Larder Lake area of the Superior Craton of Canada for the Metal Earth project in 2017. This profile, as well as other Metal earth transects, primarily aims to enhance the knowledge and to better understand the subsurface geology of the Abitibi Greenstone Belt within the Canadian Shield. The complex geological settings of the study area as well as the tribulations caused by the survey geometry have made the imaging and velocity field estimation more challenging. A recently introduced 2.5D multifocusing stacking method is one potential solution for processing crooked‐line seismic data with a poor signal‐to‐noise ratio. The 2.5D multifocusing approach offers more realistic modelling of the zero‐offset wavefield by explicitly accounting for the midpoint dispersion and cross‐dip effects. The main practical problem of the 2.5D multifocusing implementation is the simultaneous determination of the optimal wavefield parameters for each image point and time location. We address this optimization problem using a multidimensional constrained differential evolution global optimization algorithm, as this improves the efficiency and accuracy of the estimation. We have also designed an efficient processing sequence for multifocusing seismic imaging. The performance of the 2.5D multifocusing procedure has been examined on a synthetic model, generated using the same real acquisition geometry. Numerical tests demonstrate that the 2.5D multifocusing technique can produce a more focused stack with the primary reflections appearing at their poststack correct locations, and the procedure can also provide reliable estimates of interface dips. Due to the importance and difficulty of imaging the data, several conventional and advanced processing strategies have been attempted on the transect, specifically: 2D phase‐shift time migration of a dip moveout corrected stack; 2D prestack Kirchhoff time migration; swath 3D poststack migration; and our 2.5D multifocusing imaging algorithm. We found that applying the 2.5D multifocusing stacking algorithm followed by a poststack time migration approach improved the resolution of the image significantly compared to all the conventional and advanced methods and identified new reflections. The 2.5D multifocusing method also focused the steeply dipping reflections more coherently, which resolved ambiguities in geological architecture by understanding the location and continuity of structures. The method also accurately extracts 3D structural information and results in an improved signal‐to‐noise ratio.
Managing risk of non‐indigenous species establishment associated with ballast water discharges from ships with bypassed or inoperable ballast water management systems
Authors: Bradie Johanna , Rolla Matteo , Bailey Sarah A. , MacIsaac Hugh J.
Published: October 2022

Ballast water is recognized as a leading pathway for the introduction of aquatic non‐indigenous species which have caused substantial ecological damage globally.

Following international regulations, most international ships will install a ballast water management system (BWMS) by 2024 to limit the concentration of aquatic organisms in ballast water discharges; however, these new technologies may not operate as expected at global ports having variable water quality or may periodically malfunction.

Using simulations informed by empirical data, we investigated the risk of non‐indigenous species establishment associated with BWMS inoperability and evaluated potential mitigation strategies. Scenarios considered included bypassed or inoperable BWMS achieving no reduction in organisms, and partially functioning BWMS with discharged organism concentrations exceeding permissible limits. These scenarios were contrasted to outcomes with fully functioning BWMS and to voyages where ballast water exchange (BWE) was used to mitigate risk.

Partially functioning BWMSs were nonetheless beneficial, reducing organism concentrations in ballast and thus establishment risk. When a BWMS is bypassed or partially functioning, BWE is a useful emergency mitigation measure, reducing establishment risks more than partial BMWS. However, the greatest risk reduction was achieved when partial BWMS and BWE were combined.

Voyage‐specific characteristics such as concentration of organisms at uptake and destination port salinity can affect the optimal management strategy for voyages when the BWMS does not achieve compliant discharges.

Synthesis and applications. The risk of aquatic invasions and their associated ecological damages can be substantially reduced by using a ballast water management system (BWMS) and/or ballast water exchange (BWE). When a BWMS is inoperable, appropriate mitigation measures should be decided on a trip‐by‐trip basis considering voyage route and reason for BWMS inoperability (when known). BWE is a useful strategy for reducing invasion risk, except when uptake concentrations are very low. Combining BWE and partial BWMS always reduced risk compared with BWE alone, but did not greatly reduce risk when uptake concentrations were high.
Stand dynamics over 15 years including an outlying population of Fagus crenata at the northern margin of its distribution range in Hokkaido, Japan
Authors: Aiba Shin‐Ichiro , Namikawa Kanji , Matsui Tetsuya , Abo Eri , Miyazaki Seiji , Tsuzuki Yoichi , Bayarsaikhan Demidkhorloo
Published: October 2022

Fagus crenata, a dominant tree species in cool‐temperate deciduous broad‐leaved forest of Japan, is continuously distributed northward to the Kuromatsunai lowland of Hokkaido, beyond which its distribution is patchy and isolated. We analyzed stand dynamics over 15 years (2006–2021) in a plot (0.75 ha) including one such outlying population of F. crenata. At the stand level over 15 years, stem density decreased, but aboveground biomass increased. The dominance of F. crenata consistently increased in stem density and aboveground biomass. Change in the relationship between stem density and mean stem mass indicated a successional nature of the stand undergoing self‐thinning. Increasing F. crenata dominance and the associated compositional shift was due to the higher growth rates and lower mortality of F. crenata compared to other tree species. Judging from tree‐ring analysis, the oldest F. crenata tree in the plot established in 1821, but the density of F. crenata remained low till ca. 1895. The stand started to be affected by persistent disturbance since ca. 1895, with the waves of tree establishment and growth release both peaking at ca. 1930–1960. The F. crenata population mirrored the pattern of the stand, with more pronounced increases during these waves. We suggest that the long‐lasting episode of tree establishment and growth release over ca. 1930–1960 was caused by human disturbance, most likely selective logging for fuelwood. The results support the “northward expansion” hypothesis, implying that F. crenata potentially can become dominant beyond the current northern limit of continuous distribution and that disturbance facilitates the range expansion.
Improving the safety of anticoagulation initiation in patients discharged from the emergency department
Authors: Harding Andrew M , Mitri Elise , Yeoh Michael
Published: October 2022

Objective

To improve the safety of anticoagulation initiation by increasing the proportion of patients reviewed by a pharmacist.

Methods

An electronic intervention was developed to ensure all patients prescribed anticoagulation on discharge were reviewed by an ED pharmacist. Safe anticoagulation initiation was compared for patients seen and not seen.

Results

The intervention increased the number of patients seen by an ED pharmacist. Pre‐intervention (n = 238) 84.5% of patients were reviewed by a pharmacist. Post‐intervention (n = 253) 99.6% of patients were reviewed by a pharmacist. Of the 38 patients not reviewed by a pharmacist, 20 (52.6%) had safe anticoagulation initiation and in a sample of 40 patients reviewed by a pharmacist, all 40 (100%) had safe anticoagulation initiation (52.6% vs 100%, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The real‐time electronic intervention improved the number of patients reviewed by a pharmacist. ED pharmacist reviewed patients were more likely to have safe anticoagulation initiation.
Combined measurement of circulating tumor cell counts and serum tumor marker levels enhances the screening efficiency for malignant versus benign pulmonary nodules
Authors: Ma Guojun , Yang Dawei , Li Yang , Li Meng , Li Jingtao , Fu Jianhua , Peng Zhongmin
Published: October 2022

Background

The high false‐positive rate for pulmonary nodules (PNs) from using low‐dose computed tomography (LDCT) screening can lead to overuse of invasive procedures, overtreatment, and patient anxiety. Therefore, it is very important to develop new diagnostic methods.

Methods

A negative enrichment‐fluorescence in situ hybridization (NE‐FISH) approach was used to detect circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in patients with PNs. We evaluated whether or not the combination of CTC counts with serum tumor marker levels (CEA, CA 125, CYFRA 21‐1, SCC) could improve the diagnostic ability for distinguishing patients with malignant pulmonary nodules (MPNs) from those with benign pulmonary nodules (BPNs). Moreover, the potential clinical application of this combination for the diagnosis of solitary pulmonary nodules (SPNs) with a diameter ≤2 cm was also investigated.

Results

The combination of CTC counts and tumor marker levels had a sensitivity of 80.12% and the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUCROC) of 0.853 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.800–0.897, p < 0.001) for the differential diagnosis of PNs. For early cancer stages, the sensitivity was 75.38% (AUCROC = 0.780, 95% CI: 0.713–0.838, p < 0.001). In addition, for SPNs within 2 cm the combination of CTC counts and tumor marker levels was still the most valuable diagnostic tool with a sensitivity of 78.95% and AUCROC of 0.888.

Conclusion

The combination of CTC counts and serum tumor marker levels is helpful for improving the diagnosis of PNs, especially in the early stages of cancer and for SPNs within 2 cm.
Corporate reputation and hedging activities
Authors: Deng Zero , Yang J. Jimmy
Published: October 2022

This study examines whether corporate reputation affects derivative hedging. We posit that high‐reputation firms are more likely to engage in hedging due to greater reputation costs and/or their commitment to lower financial risks. We find that high‐reputation firms are more likely to engage in hedging, especially when their hedging efforts or effects are more observable to stakeholders. We also find that high‐reputation firms are less likely to disclose the notional values of hedging positions and that interest rate hedging by high‐reputation firms is detrimental to firm value. Our results shed light on the impact of reputational concerns on corporate risk management and disclosure policies.
Grouping women of South Asian ethnicity for pregnancy research in New Zealand
Authors: De Graaff Esti , Sadler Lynn , Lakhdhir Heena , Simon‐Kumar Rachel , Peiris‐John Roshini , Burgess Wendy , Okesene‐Gafa Karaponi , Cronin Robin , Mccowan Lesley , Anderson Ngaire
Published: October 2022

Background

The New Zealand (NZ) Ministry of Health ethnicity data protocols recommend that people of South Asian (SAsian) ethnicity, other than Indian, are combined with people of Japanese and Korean ethnicity at the most commonly used level of aggregation in health research (level two). This may not work well for perinatal studies, as it has long been observed that women of Indian ethnicity have higher rates of adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as perinatal death. It is possible that women of other SAsian ethnicities share this risk.

Aims

This study was performed to identify appropriate groupings of women of SAsian ethnicity for perinatal research.

Materials and Methods

National maternity and neonatal data, and singleton birth records between 2008 and 2017 were linked using the Statistics NZ Integrated Data Infrastructure. Socio‐demographic risk profiles and pregnancy outcomes were compared between 15 ethnic groups. Recommendations were made based on statistical analyses and cultural evaluation with members of the SAsian research community.

Results

Similarities were observed between women of Indian, Fijian Indian, South African Indian, Sri Lankan, Bangladeshi and Pakistani ethnicities. A lower‐risk profile was seen among Japanese and Korean mothers. Risk profiles of women of combined Indian‐Māori, Indian‐Pacific and Indian‐New Zealand European ethnicity more closely represented their corresponding non‐Indian ethnicities.

Conclusions

Based on these findings, we suggest a review of current NZ Ministry of Health ethnicity data protocols. We recommend that researchers understand the risk profiles of participants prior to aggregation of groups in research, to mitigate risks associated with masking differences.
Impact of body mass index on total cost of trauma and elective spine surgical procedures at a quaternary spinal referral centre
Authors: Eason Josephine A. , Vandal Alain , Patel Alpesh U.C.
Published: October 2022

Background

Evidence surrounding obesity concludes it places a significant burden on the healthcare sector. Our objective was to quantify the financial impacts of obesity, specifically the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and total cost of spinal surgery. The links between BMI and length of stay, readmission and theatre times were explored. It was predicted that with increasing obesity, total cost would increase.

Methods

Retrospective review of patients that received spinal surgery at Middlemore Hospital between 1 October 2017 and 30 November 2019. Data were collected on patient demographics, procedure details, total cost, as well as potential variables (trauma, acute/elective, surgical complexity, readmissions, comorbidities, injury severity). Data were fitted using linear and generalized linear models, with BMI fitted using natural splines.

Results

Obesity prevalence in South Auckland was reflected in the study population of 533, with the average BMI being 30.16. Results for BMI less than or equal to 24, and above 48, were statistically significant (P = 0.037, 95% CI). Total cost increased on either side of BMI 33.1. BMI 18 had 60% increase in total cost (95% CI (17, 118)) and BMI 55 of 38.3% (95% CI (−8.3, 109)).

Positive associations were found with increasing BMI and induction time and readmission rate respectively. The relationship between BMI and length of stay and other variables were not significant.

Conclusion

The relationship between BMI and total cost is non‐linear and there is an increase in induction time with higher BMI patients.
Beauty
Authors: Tate Shirley Anne
Published: October 2022

Beauty is not race neutral. It is a racialized category/ perception which emerged through centuries of European colonization, Indigenous genocide, African/Black enslavement and indenture resulting in an aesthetic hierarchy with Blackness at the bottom. The coloniality of aesthetics means that still today hair perceived as Black in texture and styling and darker skin on African descent bodies are the repositories of anti‐Blackness. However, Black women, children and men continue to fight back by (re)creating Black antiracist aesthetics focused on valorizing Black skin and hair.