bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How to believe? Building trust in food businesses' consumers based on psychological contracts
Authors: Wang Weihua , Yang Dong , Zheng Yaqin
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to understand the psychological mechanism that affects consumer trust by focusing on the formation and influence process of psychological contracts, and taking this opportunity, explore the influence paths of food quality, food safety and service quality on consumer trust in the online food market, and provide theoretical suggestions for building trust in food businesses' consumers.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on an empirical investigation and uses partial least square structural equation modeling for analysis. Survey data were collected online from 359 APP users of online food transaction platforms in China.

Findings

Food quality, food safety and service quality influence consumer trust through the mediating effects of relational and transactional psychological contracts. However, the differences between these influencing paths are obvious and shift with changes in the marketing channels.

Practical implications

This study contributes to the body of consumer trust research by exploring online food transactions as an emerging trend in China. Some optimization strategies for food quality, food safety and service quality are provided for enterprises involved in online food transactions.

Originality/value

This is a pioneering study revealing psychological contracts as a missing but significant mediator between consumer trust and its antecedents.
Implementing the principles of circular economy in the construction industry: exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses of strategies
Authors: Amudjie Judith , Agyekum Kofi , Adinyira Emmanuel , Amos-Abanyie Samuel , Botchway Edward Ayebeng
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the strategies that can be adopted to enhance the practice of circular economy (CE) principles among built environment (BE) firms operating in the Ghanaian Construction Industry (GCI).

Design/methodology/approach

A structured questionnaire survey was used to solicit the views of 162 BE professionals working in construction, consulting, and developer firms on the issue under investigation. The questionnaire was developed through a review of related literature and complemented with a pilot review. Data were analysed by descriptive and inferential statistics.

Findings

The findings revealed four major categories of strategies (i.e. systems and technical related strategies, market orientation and operational strategies, knowledge dissemination and awareness-related strategies, and environmental and regulatory strategies) to promote the practice of the principles of CE among BE professionals in the GCI.

Originality/value

This study’s findings provide insights into an under-investigated topic in the construction industry, especially, in a developing country such as Ghana, and offer new and additional information and insights into the current state-of-the-art on CE implementation.
Farmer education and adoption of sustainable and chemical pesticide-free agriculture: evidence from rural Burkina Faso
Authors: Maré Tobignaré Florent , Zahonogo Pam , Savadogo Kimseyinga
Published: July 2023

Purpose

In a context where the promotion of a more sustainable agriculture is clearly aimed at, the paradoxical combination of sustainable agricultural practices (SAP) with chemical pesticides use instead of biological pest management techniques is recurrent in Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries like Burkina Faso. Chemical pesticides are harmful to the environment and health. This paper aims to analyze the role of farmer education on the mode of adoption of SAP.

Design/methodology/approach

An endogenous treatment effect model is used with survey data on 1,898 rural households in Burkina Faso.

Findings

The results show a positive causal effect of farmer education on sustainable and chemical pesticide-free agriculture adoption.

Research limitations/implications

Formal education appears to be general. This research could be extended to consider the role of training or extension services. More detailed results, focusing on spatial effects, could reinforce those of the present research.

Originality/value

Unlike previous studies, this paper addresses for the first time the paradoxical behavior of combining SAP with chemical pesticides use. It shows that farmer education contributes to explain it and is therefore a determining factor for a more sustainable agriculture.
Modeling intellectual capital-based intrapreneurial ability of working professionals through servant leadership and self-efficacy
Authors: Khatri Puja , Dutta Sumedha , Kumari Preeti , Duggal Harshleen Kaur , Thomas Asha , Cristillo Ilaria , Nobis Silvio
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Intrapreneurial ability (IA) of employees strengthens an organization's internal as well as external growth. Employees' IA makes innovation a continuous practice and augments organization's intellectual capital (IC). This intellectual capital-based intrapreneurial ability (ICIA) helps professionals to effectively handle changes in the business ecosystem by creating innovative solutions. The onus of assessing and inculcating ICIA is a joint responsibility of both academia and industry. In academia, teacher as a servant leader (TASL) contributes towards building ICIA of working professionals (WP) by enhancing their self-efficacy (SE). The paper aims to strengthen the industry–academia interface by analyzing the role of TASL and SE in influencing the ICIA of WP.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a stratified sampling technique, data from 387 WP is analyzed on SmartPLS-4 to study the interrelationship between the stated constructs and the role of SE as a mediator between TASL and ICIA. PLSpredict is used to study the predictive relevance of the proposed model.

Findings

High R2 = 0.654 shows that 65% of ICIA is determined by SE and TASL; reflecting model's robustness. SE partially mediates the relationship between TASL and ICIA. Results reported a higher ICIA of male WP than their female counterpart. The results indicate the low predictive accuracy of the model.

Practical implications

The proposed model of industry–academia partnership allows assessment of ICIA for enhancing corporate value in the present gig economy. The study also highlights the relevance of ICIA, particularly, for developing economies. In knowledge-driven economy, exploring the new ICIA will help organizations to draft a more robust performance measurement system.

Originality/value

This unique industry–academia partnership studies the role of TASL towards enhancing SE and ICIA of WP. The novelty of ICIA would enrich and provide a new perspective in IA literature. Additionally, the study also examines the role of gender in the ICIA of WP.
Exploring the nuances of biomedical language: a study on the polysemy of the word pattern
Authors: Khakimova Aida , Zolotarev Oleg , Kaushal Sanjay
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Effective communication is crucial in the medical field where different stakeholders use various terminologies to describe and classify healthcare concepts such as ICD, SNOMED CT, UMLS and MeSH, but the problem of polysemy can make natural language processing difficult. This study explores the contextual meanings of the term “pattern” in the biomedical literature, compares them to existing definitions, annotates a corpus for use in machine learning and proposes new definitions of terms such as “Syndrome, feature” and “pattern recognition.”

Design/methodology/approach

Entrez API was used to retrieve articles form PubMed for the study which assembled a corpus of 398 articles using a search query for the ambiguous term “pattern” in the titles or abstracts. The python NLTK library was used to extract the terms and their contexts, and an expert check was carried out. To understand the various meanings of the term, the contextual environment was analyzed by extracting the surrounding words of the term. The expert determined the appropriate size of the context for analysis to gain a more nuanced understanding of the different meanings of the term pattern.

Findings

The study found that the categories of meanings of the term “pattern” are broader in biomedical publications than in common definitions, and new categories have been emerging from the term's use in the biomedical field. The study highlights the importance of annotated corpora in advancing natural language processing techniques and provides valuable insights into the nuances of biomedical language.

Originality/value

The study's findings demonstrate the importance of exploring contextual meanings and proposing new definitions of terms in the biomedical field to improve natural language processing techniques.
Exploring the dimensions of ChatGPT in English language learning: a global perspective
Authors: Bin-Hady Wagdi Rashad Ali , Al-Kadi Abdu , Hazaea Abduljalil , Ali Jamal Kaid Mohammed
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The proliferation of ChatGPT, as in many other digital technologies and social media, has increasingly impacted many aspects of modern life, including second and foreign language education. This study, building on a common theoretical position of all these advances in Artificial intelligence (AI), seeks to establish a model for ChatGPT research on English language learning. It specifically explores the dimensions in which ChatGPT aids students in their English language learning.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts grounded theory in collecting and analyzing data from 20 ResearchGater (RG) through a two-week RG discussion about ChatGPT uses in their language learning contexts. Data collected via the discussion was analyzed thematically.

Findings

Preliminary findings show that ChatGPT can be used in developing learners' language skills; scaffolding the learning process by providing feedback to students on their language use and acting as partners in practicing language with recommended activities for more language practice.

Originality/value

The study contributes a five-dimension model for artificial intelligence assisted language learning (AIALL). The model involves flexible teacher's role to consolidate learner autonomy and provide enjoyable learning, urges future innovation, and celebrates various applications. Examining the AIALL model of ChatGPT for language learning, teachers should provide some directions for properly using this new application.
Do extrinsic factors encourage shoppers’ compulsive buying? Store environment and product characteristics
Authors: Lavuri Rambabu , Thaichon Park
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The study examines the extrinsic variables, namely store environment, promotional activities (PA), product features and stimulation factors that encourage compulsive purchasing in emerging markets.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected from customers with recent compulsive shopping experiences at an online retail store. This study collected 469 original survey responses employing purposive sampling and data analyzed with covariance-based structural equation modeling and used segmentation analysis.

Findings

The study results indicated that extrinsic (stimulus) factors, such as shop environment, PA and stimulation factors positively impacted shoppers’ impulsive buying tendency (IBT), whereas product characteristics did not affect shoppers’ IBT. Similarly, IBT (organism) influenced compulsive purchase, as did a favorable mediating relationship between extrinsic factors (stimulus factors) and shoppers’ compulsive purchase (response factor). Moreover, segmentation results showed that female consumers had more IBT and compulsive buying behavior than male respondents.

Originality/value

This research adds to the corpus of information concerning impulsive and compulsive buying behavior. As this study incorporates the Stimulus-Organism-Response paradigm, new findings emerge; using this paradigm allows for the testing of new linkages to better understand consumers’ impulsive and compulsive behavior.
CSR initiatives and stakeholder engagement amidst COVID-19 pandemic: insights using content analysis and literature review
Authors: Hasan Iram , Singh Shveta , Kashiramka Smita
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has impacted all economies, businesses and societies. The purpose of this paper is to analyze and present a case for corporate social responsibility (CSR) in terms of its relevance amidst the turmoil caused by the pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use a directed content analysis approach to retrieve relevant information from news articles using Thomson Reuters’ Eikon® and Bloomberg® databases. Based on stakeholder theory, the authors evaluate some of the CSR initiatives undertaken by organizations around the world. The authors then undertake a systematic literature review using the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses standard to provide possible implications for organizations.

Findings

The findings suggest that in response to the pandemic, corporations from both developed and developing countries have been pursuing CSR measures for stakeholder engagement. The systematic literature review signals positive outcomes that companies might expect at the organizational level. The paper concludes by suggesting research propositions that indicate effective CSR at a time of crisis like COVID-19 encourages stakeholder partnerships and helps to gain a competitive advantage.

Originality/value

The authors present an overview of the CSR responses taken by firms globally in response to the pandemic by way of stakeholder engagement. The authors analyze the stakeholders targeted through such initiatives and report possible implications based on the extant literature. The findings of the study can be used to understand the various transitions that happen in an unprecedented situation like COVID-19 at all levels of business and society.
Movement diversity and partial sympatry of coastal and Northeast Arctic cod ecotypes at high latitudes
Authors: Strøm John Fredrik , Bøhn Thomas , Skjæraasen Jon Egil , Gjelland Karl Øystein , Karlsen Ørjan , Johansen Torild , Hanebrekke Tanja , Bjørn Pål Arne , Olsen Esben Moland
Published: July 2023

Movement diversity within species represent an important but often neglected, component of biodiversity that affects ecological and genetic interactions, as well as the productivity of exploited systems.

By combining individual tracking data from acoustic telemetry with novel genetic analyses, we describe the movement diversity of two Atlantic cod Gadus morhua ecotypes in two high‐latitude fjord systems: the highly migratory Northeast Arctic cod (NEA cod) that supports the largest cod fishery in the world, and the more sedentary Norwegian coastal cod, which is currently in a depleted state.

As predicted, coastal cod displayed a higher level of fjord residency than NEA cod. Of the cod tagged during the spawning season, NEA cod left the fjords permanently to a greater extent and earlier compared to coastal cod, which to a greater extent remained resident and left the fjords temporarily. Despite this overall pattern, horizontal movements atypical for the ecotypes were common with some NEA cod remaining within the fjords year‐round and some coastal cod displaying a low fjord fidelity. Fjord residency and exit timing also differed with spawning status and body size, with spawning cod and large individuals tagged during the feeding season more prone to leave the fjords and earlier than non‐spawning and smaller individuals.

While our results confirm a lower fjord dependency for NEA cod, they highlight a movement diversity within each ecotype and sympatric residency between ecotypes, previously undetected by population‐level monitoring. This new knowledge is relevant for the management, which should base their fisheries advice for these interacting ecotypes on their habitat use and seasonal movements.
Incorporating simulation exercises using collaborative tools into disaster and emergency medicine curriculum—A pilot survey among Saudi Arabian professionals
Authors: Sultan Mohammed A. Salem , Carlström Eric , Sørensen Jarle Løwe , Alruwaili Abdullah Saleh , Khorram‐Manesh Amir
Published: July 2023

This study evaluates the need for changes in Saudi Arabia's current disaster and emergency management curriculum, incorporating disaster exercises and using the collaborative tool of CSCATTT (Command and Control, Safety, Communication, Assessment, Triage, Treatment, Transport). Several statements were presented among five experts in three rounds of the Delphi technique; thereafter, the statement was presented as a questionnaire among 128 professionals and practitioners in disaster medicine through a quantitative survey. The results revealed that a high percentage of participants urged the necessity for several changes in the current Saudi curriculum of disaster and emergency medicine. According to the participants that the current curriculum does not cover essential knowledge in Command and Control, Safety, Communication, Assessment, and the roles of each individual and agency, needs to be enhanced by including several other aspects of disaster and emergency management, such as all risk management, internal and external communication, coordination, cooperation and collaboration in transport issues, teaching and training, and promoting multiagency collaboration and enable extracurricular activities. This study recommends continuous revision, and development of the current curriculum in Saudi Arabia and integration of the collaborative tools as well as the inclusion of disaster simulation using the same collaborative strategy. This study may be transferrable to other developing countries.
Response to water‐deficit following waterlogging varies among ecotypes of subterranean clover (Trifolium subterraneum ssp. yanninicum), a waterlogging‐tolerant annual pasture legume
Authors: Enkhbat Gereltsetseg , Inukai Yoshiaki , Nichols Phillip G. H. , Pang Jiayin , Erskine William , Foster Kevin J. , Ryan Megan H.
Published: July 2023

The pasture legume Trifolium subterraneum ssp. yanninicum L. is waterlogging tolerant, but water‐deficit (WD) susceptible. The interactive effect of waterlogged (WL) and WD (soil moisture fluctuation [SMF]) results in a severe stress impact. We studied three diverse ecotypes to identify traits associated with adaptation to SMF. Ecotypes were established in a glasshouse with two treatments imposed at 21 days: well‐watered (WW–WW; 80% field capacity [FC]) and WL to WD (WL–WD). For WL–WD, pots were WL for 28 days (Harvest I), and then transitioned to WD (drained to 40% FC) and maintained for 10 days (Harvest II). For shoot relative growth rates (RGR) at Harvest I, WL had relatively little impact, although there was a greater reduction for Ecotype A (80% of WW) than Ecotypes B (92%) and C (87%). However, between Harvests I and II, the impact of WL–WD varied among ecotypes with Ecotype A being less affected (75% of WW–WW) than Ecotypes B (57%) and C (63%). For root RGR at Harvest I, WL resulted in a greater reduction for Ecotype A (52% of WW) than Ecotypes B (77%) and C (74%), while for WL–WD between Harvests I and II, Ecotype A showed a large increase (117% of WW–WW) compared to Ecotypes B (95%) and C (87%). In conclusion, the response to WD following WL varied among ecotypes, which demonstrates contrasting adaptation responses to SMF unrelated to WL tolerance. High yield under WL together with capacity for rapid growth post‐WL in a drying soil profile could enhance adaptation to SMF.
Disuse‐induced muscle fibrosis, cellular senescence, and senescence‐associated secretory phenotype in older adults are alleviated during re‐ambulation with metformin pre‐treatment
Authors: Petrocelli Jonathan J. , McKenzie Alec I. , de Hart Naomi M. M. P. , Reidy Paul T. , Mahmassani Ziad S. , Keeble Alexander R. , Kaput Katie L. , Wahl Matthew P. , Rondina Matthew T. , Marcus Robin L. , Welt Corrine K. , Holland William L. , Funai Katsuhiko , Fry Christopher S. , Drummond Micah J.
Published: July 2023

Muscle inflammation and fibrosis underlie disuse‐related complications and may contribute to impaired muscle recovery in aging. Cellular senescence is an emerging link between inflammation, extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and poor muscle recovery after disuse. In rodents, metformin has been shown to prevent cellular senescence/senescent associated secretory phenotype (SASP), inflammation, and fibrosis making it a potentially practical therapeutic solution. Thus, the purpose of this study was to determine in older adults if metformin monotherapy during bed rest could reduce muscle fibrosis and cellular senescence/SASP during the re‐ambulation period. A two‐arm controlled trial was utilized in healthy male and female older adults (n = 20; BMI: <30, age: 60 years+) randomized into either placebo or metformin treatment during a two‐week run‐in and 5 days of bedrest followed by metformin withdrawal during 7 days of recovery. We found that metformin‐treated individuals had less type‐I myofiber atrophy during disuse, reduced pro‐inflammatory transcriptional profiles, and lower muscle collagen deposition during recovery. Collagen content and myofiber size corresponded to reduced whole muscle cellular senescence and SASP markers. Moreover, metformin treatment reduced primary muscle resident fibro‐adipogenic progenitors (FAPs) senescent markers and promoted a shift in fibroblast fate to be less myofibroblast‐like. Together, these results suggest that metformin pre‐treatment improved ECM remodeling after disuse in older adults by possibly altering cellular senescence and SASP in skeletal muscle and in FAPs.
A comparison of endodontic registrar training experience with treatments provided by private practice endodontists
Authors: Thanissorn Charn , Ye Johnson , Girgis Daniel , van Dort Nathan , Abbott Paul V.
Published: July 2023

The primary aim was to compare cases seen by public endodontic clinicians (endodontists and endodontic registrars) to that of private endodontists. This was done by comparing item numbers charged over a 3‐year period from 1 January 2016 to 1 January 2019 from both sectors. The secondary aim was to compare item numbers charged by endodontic registrars during their training as recorded by their submitted logbooks to that of private endodontists. In both comparisons, private endodontists recorded higher numbers of many item numbers including consultations, routine root canal treatment, removal of posts and broken instruments. Endodontic registrar logbooks also recorded fewer numbers compared to private endodontists, however, the frequency of more invasive procedures such as surgery and hemisection were similar.
Increasing emergency department visits for anaphylaxis in very early childhood: A canary in the coal mine
Authors: Rueter Kristina , Moseley Natasha , Ta Brennan , Bear Natasha , Borland Meredith L. , Prescott Susan L.
Published: July 2023

Aim

The incidence of anaphylaxis is increasing globally in tandem with changing environmental and lifestyle factors. There is very limited data on very early childhood presentations. We aim to assess changes in rates, characteristics and management of infant anaphylaxis in a paediatric ED over a 15‐year period.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of children <2 years of age who presented with verified anaphylaxis comparing cases in years 2003–2007 with those in 2013–2017. Standardised information was collected on demographics, clinical presentation, management and triggers.

Results

Manually confirmed anaphylaxis rates in <2 year olds increased from 3.6 to 6.2 per 104 population (OR 1.7, 95% CI: 1.3–2.7; p < 0.001) with the greatest increase in <1 year olds. Anaphylaxis severity increased between 2003–2007 and 2013–2017 (OR 2.3, 95% CI: 1.2–4.3; p = 0.018). Failure to administer adrenaline was reduced in 2013–2017 (p = 0.007). Food was the leading anaphylaxis trigger (97.85%).

Conclusion

This is the first study to suggest an increase in the incidence and severity of ED anaphylaxis presentations in children aged <2 years. Increased awareness of specific characteristics in this age group is required to facilitate timely recognition and optimal management. Further large‐scale studies are warranted to understand underlying environmental drivers and find prevention strategies to reduce the burden of disease.
Systematic analysis of adverse incident reports revealed the need for improvements in the neonatal unit
Authors: Salo Maria , Taittonen Leena , Huhtala Heini , Palmu Sauli , Tammela Outi
Published: July 2023

Aim

The aims were to characterise adverse incident reports and recommendations to avoid the reoccurrence of adverse incidents and detect a possible increase in incidents outside of office hours and on vacation season.

Methods

Analysis of adverse incidents reported at the neonatal intensive care unit of Tampere University Hospital in Finland between 2013 and 2020.

Results

Analysis of 925 fully processed adverse incident reports revealed that 36.3% of the reports were related to medication, fluid management and blood products, and 34.8% of these were administering errors. Nurses reported 828 (89.5%) adverse incidents and physicians reported 37 (4.0%). Near misses constituted 35.3% of nurses' and 21.6% of physicians' reports. There were significantly more adverse incident reports on day shifts, on Thursdays and, Saturdays and in June, November and December than at other times. The interventions recommended were to inform the staff or other parties after 673 (72.7%) reports and to recommend improvements after 56 (6.0%) reports.

Conclusion

Analysis of adverse incident reports can reveal the need for improvements in existing protocols in the neonatal intensive care unit.
Application of computed tomography to the study of Mesolithic portable art: Results, interpretations and expectations—The case of an ornamented roe deer antler harpoon from Police, north‐west Poland
Authors: Płonka Tomasz , Diakowski Marcin , Krupa‐Kurzynowska Joanna , Hoppe Viktoria , Ziółkowski Grzegorz
Published: July 2023

The article describes the application of X‐ray computed tomography to the recording and analysis of ornamentation on the Mesolithic harpoon found at Police in north‐west Poland. The geometric ornament was divided into eight areas. Based on the tomographic data, a method of quantitative analysis of ornamentation was proposed. For lines selected in individual areas, three profiles were determined for which the width, depth and opening angle of the ornament lines were measured. The analysis of these data, including statistical analyses, revealed a degree of variation, dependent on the engraving technique and the instrument used to make the ornament.
A newly developed bacteriocin like substance to replace monensin in diets of lactating ewes
Authors: Azzaz Hossam H. , Kholif Ahmed E. , Abd El Tawab Ahmed M. , Hassaan Noha A. , Vargas‐Bello‐Pérez Einar
Published: July 2023

The aim of the present experiment was to evaluate the effect of feeding a newly produced bacteriocin‐like substance (BLS) as a replacement for monensin in the diets of lactating ewes. In Experiment 1, the effects of BLS or monensin at 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 g/kg diet on in vitro ruminal fermentation were compared. In Experiment 2, 30 multiparous Barki ewes were divided into three treatments in a complete randomized design for 90 days. The ewes were fed a basal diet without supplementation or supplemented with monensin or BLS at 0.5 g/kg DM diet. In Experiment 1, the highest levels of BLS and monensin decreased gas production, while all levels of additives linearly decreased methane production. In Experiment 2, BLS increased nutrient digestibility. Additives increased ruminal total and individual volatile fatty acids and decreased ruminal ammonia‐N. The BLS increased serum albumin and decreased the concentrations of serum liver enzymes, while both additives increased serum glucose and decreased urea‐N. Additives increased daily production of milk, while the BLS treatment increased the feed efficiency. It is concluded that dietary inclusion of BLS at 0.5 g/kg DM for lactating ewes is recommended to replace monensin.
Mediating expectations and experiences that influence birth experiences in Canada's first Alongside Midwifery Unit
Authors: Murray‐Davis Beth , Grenier Lindsay N. , Mattison Cristina , Malott Anne M. , Cameron Carol , Li Jenifer , Darling Elizabeth , Hutton Eileen K.
Published: July 2023

Background

Globally, midwifery‐led birthing units are associated with excellent maternal and neonatal outcomes, and positive childbirth experiences. However, little is known about what aspects of midwife‐led units contribute to favorable experiences and overall satisfaction. Our aim was to explore and describe midwifery service user experiences at Canada's first Alongside Midwifery Unit (AMU).

Methods

We used a qualitative, grounded theory approach using semi‐structured interviews with recipients of midwifery care at the AMU.

Findings

Data were collected from twenty‐eight participants between September 2018 and March 2020. Our generated theory explains how birth experiences and satisfaction were influenced by how well the AMU aligned with expectations or desired experiences related to the following four themes: (1) maintaining the midwifery model of care, (2) emphasizing control and choice, (3) facilitating interprofessional relationships, and (4) appreciating the unique AMU birthing environment.

Conclusion

Canada's first AMU met or exceeded service‐user expectations, resulting in high levels of satisfaction with their birth experience. Maintaining core elements of the midwifery model of care, promoting high levels of autonomy, and facilitating positive interprofessional interactions are crucial elements contributing to childbirth satisfaction in the AMU environment.
Inhibition of Brd4 alleviates osteoarthritis pain via suppression of neuroinflammation and activation of Nrf2‐mediated antioxidant signalling
Authors: Sun Jia , Wang Xing‐He , Song Fan‐He , Li Dan‐Yang , Gao Shao‐Jie , Zhang Long‐Qing , Wu Jia‐Yi , Liu Dai‐Qiang , Wang Li‐Wei , Zhou Ya‐Qun , Mei Wei
Published: July 2023

Background and Purpose

Osteoarthritis (OA) pain remains a major clinical problem. It is urgent to identify novel therapeutic approaches for OA pain states. Bromodomain and extra‐terminal (BET) protein inhibitors have robust anti‐inflammatory effects in several pain models. However, the underlying mechanisms of these inhibitors in OA pain have not been determined. We, therefore, investigated the effects and the underlying mechanism(s) of BET inhibition on pain‐related behaviours in a rat model of OA.

Experimental Approach

The OA model was established by intra‐articular injection of monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) in rat knees. Pain behaviours were assessed in rats by hindlimb weight‐bearing asymmetry, mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia. Possible mechanisms underlying BET inhibition were explored in the MIA‐induced OA pain model in the spinal cord and dorsal root ganglia (DRG).

Key Results

Inhibiting bromodomain‐containing protein 4 (Brd4) with either JQ1 or MS417, or using AAV2/9‐shRNA‐Brd4‐EGFP‐mediated knockdown of Brd4 genes, significantly attenuated MIA‐induced pain behaviours. Brd4 inhibition suppressed NF‐κB and NF‐κB‐mediated inflammatory cytokines in both the spinal cord and DRG in rats with MIA‐induced OA pain. Brd4 inhibition also attenuated the oxidative stress and promoted nuclear factor erythroid‐2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2)‐dependent antioxidant genes in both the spinal cord and DRG in our odel of MIA‐induced OA pain.

Conclusions and Implications

In conclusion, Brd4 inhibition alleviated MIA‐induced OA pain in rats, via suppression of neuroinflammation and activation of Nrf2‐mediated antioxidant signalling. Although our model does not perfectly represent how OA develops in humans, inhibition of Brd4 may provide novel insights into possible treatments for OA pain.
Accuracy of complete‐arch digital implant impression with intraoral optical scanning and stereophotogrammetry: An in vivo prospective comparative study
Authors: Pozzi Alessandro , Carosi Paolo , Gallucci German O. , Nagy Katalin , Nardi Alessandra , Arcuri Lorenzo
Published: July 2023

Objectives

To assess accuracy of intraoral optical scanning (IOS) and stereophotogrammetry (SPG), complete‐arch digital implant impressions in vivo.

Materials and Methods

Consecutive patients needing implant‐supported screw‐retained zirconia complete‐arch fixed‐dental prostheses (ISZ‐FDP) were recruited. For each patient, three impressions were taken: IOS, SPG (tests), and open‐tray plaster (reference). Linear (ΔX, ΔY, and ΔZ), three‐dimensional (ΔEUC), and angular deviations (ΔANGLE) were evaluated and stratified according to scanning technology for each implant. Potential effects of impression device (IOS and SPG), arch (maxilla and mandible), and implant number (4 and 6) were evaluated through multivariable analysis. Significance level was set at .05.

Results

A total of 11 complete arches (5 maxillae, 6 mandibles) in 11 patients were rehabilitated with ISZ‐FDPs supported by 4 (n = 8) and 6 implants (n = 3). A total of 50 implants and 100 implant positions were captured by two investigated devices and compared to respective reference (mean ΔEUC IOS 137.2, SPG 87.6 μm; mean ΔANGLE 0.79, 0.38°). Differences between measurements (SPG‐IOS) were computed for each implant, with negative values indicating better SPG accuracy. Significant mean ΔEUC difference of −49.60 μm (p = .0143; SD 138.15) and mean ΔANGLE difference of −0.40° (p < .0001; SD 0.65) were observed in favor of SPG. Multivariable analysis showed significant effect on ΔEUC (p = .0162) and ΔANGLE (p = .0001) only for impression devices, with SPG performing better.

Conclusions

SPG experienced significantly higher linear and angular accuracy. No effect of type of arch or implant number was detected. Higher extreme deviations were experienced for IOS. SPG can be feasible for complete‐arch digital impressions with caution, and rigid prototype try‐in is recommended before screw‐retained prosthesis manufacturing.
Comprehensive analysis of PSMD family members and validation of PSMD9 as a potential therapeutic target in human glioblastoma
Authors: Li Yaquan , Liu Xuemeng , Zhao Feihu , Zhao Zhimin , Li Xingang , Wang Jian , Huang Bin , Chen Anjing
Published: July 2023

Aims

PSMD family members, as important components of the 26S proteasome, are well known to be involved in protein degradation. However, their role in glioblastoma (GBM) has not been rigorously investigated. We aimed to perform systematic analysis of the expression signature, prognostic significance and functions of PSMD family genes in GBM to reveal potential prognostic markers and new therapeutic targets among PSMD family members.

Methods

In this study, we systemically analyzed PSMD family members in terms of their expression profiles, prognostic implications, DNA methylation levels, and genetic alterations; the relationships between their expression levels and immune infiltration and drug sensitivity; and their potential functional enrichment in GBM through bioinformatics assessment. Moreover, in vitro and in vivo experiments were used to validate the biological functions of PSMD9 and its targeted therapeutic effect in GBM.

Results

The mRNA levels of PSMD5/8/9/10/11/13/14 were higher in GBM than in normal brain tissues, and the mRNA levels of PSMD1/4/5/8/9/11/12 were higher in high‐grade glioma (WHO grade III & IV) than in low‐grade glioma (WHO grade II). High mRNA expression of PSMD2/6/8/9/12/13/14 and low mRNA expression of PSMD7 were associated with poor overall survival (OS). Multivariate Cox regression analysis identified PSMD2/5/6/8/9/10/11/12 as independent prognostic factors for OS prediction. In addition, the protein–protein interaction network and gene set enrichment analysis results suggested that PSMD family members and their interacting molecules were involved in the regulation of the cell cycle, cell invasion and migration, and other biological processes in GBM. In addition, knockdown of PSMD9 inhibited cell proliferation, invasion and migration and induced G2/M cell cycle arrest in LN229 and A172 GBM cells. Moreover, PSMD9 promoted the malignant progression of GBM in vivo. GBM cell lines with high PSMD9 expression were more resistant to panobinostat, a potent deacetylase inhibitor, than those with low PSMD9 expression. In vitro and in vivo experiments further validated that PSMD9 overexpression rescued the GBM inhibitory effect of panobinostat.

Conclusion

This study provides new insights into the value of the PSMD family in human GBM diagnosis and prognosis evaluation, and we further identified PSMD9 as a potential therapeutic target. These findings may lead to the development of effective therapeutic strategies for GBM.
Does the brain sleep differently depending on intellectual abilities?
Authors: Thieux Marine , Zhang Min , Guignard‐Perret Anne , Mazza Stéphanie , Plancoulaine Sabine , Guyon Aurore , Franco Patricia
Published: July 2023

Aims

To compare the children's sleep electroencephalogram according to their intellectual profile.

Methods

Children were grouped according to their Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) scores (17 with normal intelligence quotient [IQ, NIQ] and 24 with high IQ [HIQ]). Comparisons of spectral power between groups and its relationship with WISC scores were assessed using analyses of variance and linear regression models, adjusted for age and sex.

Results

Children with HIQ had more rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, especially late at night, and more power in slow‐frequency bands during REM sleep than those with NIQ. There were also positive associations between the processing speed index and the spectral power in β bands in NREM sleep, and with the spectral power in α, σ, β, and γ bands in REM sleep, with different associations between groups.

Conclusion

The enhanced power in slow bands during REM sleep in children with HIQ overlaps with that of typical REM sleep oscillations thought to be involved in emotional memory consolidation. The dissimilar relationships between spectral power and WISC scores in NIQ and HIQ groups may underlie functional differences in brain activity related to cognitive efficiency, questioning the direction of the relationship between sleep and cognitive functioning.
Bacteriology and trends of antimicrobial resistance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus in otitis media: A retrospective data analysis
Authors: Kang Dae Woong , Lee Hyun Jee , Bang Je Ho , Kim Sang Hoon , Byun Jae Yong , Park Moon Suh , Yeo Seung Geun
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Otitis media (OM) has a high prevalence worldwide and the treatment is crucial because hearing loss in children can lead to growth disorders such as language development disorders. The aim of this study is to analyse the changes in bacterial strains and the trends of antibiotic susceptibility in otitis media with effusion (OME), chronic otitis media (COM) and cholesteatomatous otitis media (Chole OM).

Design

This retrospective study involved 2926 patients diagnosed with OME, COM, or Chole OM between January 2000 and December 2020. The clinical data were collected and analysed through chart review from May 2021 to July 2021.

Setting

Two tertiary medical centres.

Participants

The 2926 OM patients.

Main Outcomes and Measures

An otorrhea sample was collected on the first day of their hospital visit. Middle ear fluid samples for bacterial culture and antibiotics susceptibility test were collected from patients during middle ear surgery, including ventilation tube insertion. In each type of OM, the distribution of bacterial strains in the 2000s and the 2010s was compared. In addition, changes in the detection rate of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) and trends in their antibiotic susceptibility over the last 10 years were analysed.

Results

The most frequently detected bacterial strains in OME, COM and Chole OM over the study period were coagulase‐negative Staphylococcus (CNS) (29.6%), MRSA (24.1%), and PA (20.1%). Compared to the 2000s, the proportion of non‐typable Haemophilus influenzae in OME and MRSA in COM increased in the 2010s (27.4%–31.6% and 1.5%–29.5%, respectively). In total three types of OM, although there was no significant trend of change in detection rates of MRSA, PA, and multidrug resistant‐P. aeruginosa (MDR‐PA) during the last 10 years, resistance to the Quinolone class of MRSA and PA tended to increase (P < .05).

Conclusions

The composition of bacterial strains in each types of OM has changed over the past 20 years. Additionally, the antibiotic resistance of MRSA and PA has increased in the last decade. Therefore, when using empirical antibiotics in necessary situations, it is necessary to change to an appropriate antibiotic through a bacterial culture test and antimicrobial susceptibility test.
Climate change drives loss of bacterial gut mutualists at the expense of host survival in wild meerkats
Authors: Risely Alice , Müller‐Klein Nadine , Schmid Dominik W. , Wilhelm Kerstin , Clutton‐Brock Tim H. , Manser Marta B. , Sommer Simone
Published: July 2023

Climate change and climate‐driven increases in infectious disease threaten wildlife populations globally. Gut microbial responses are predicted to either buffer or exacerbate the negative impacts of these twin pressures on host populations. However, examples that document how gut microbial communities respond to long‐term shifts in climate and associated disease risk, and the consequences for host survival, are rare. Over the past two decades, wild meerkats inhabiting the Kalahari have experienced rapidly rising temperatures, which is linked to the spread of tuberculosis (TB). We show that over the same period, the faecal microbiota of this population has become enriched in Bacteroidia and impoverished in lactic acid bacteria (LAB), a group of bacteria including Lactococcus and Lactobacillus that are considered gut mutualists. These shifts occurred within individuals yet were compounded over generations, and were better explained by mean maximum temperatures than mean rainfall over the previous year. Enriched Bacteroidia were additionally associated with TB exposure and disease, the dry season and poorer body condition, factors that were all directly linked to reduced future survival. Lastly, abundances of LAB taxa were independently and positively linked to future survival, while enriched taxa did not predict survival. Together, these results point towards extreme temperatures driving an expansion of a disease‐associated pathobiome and loss of beneficial taxa. Our study provides the first evidence from a longitudinally sampled population that climate change is restructuring wildlife gut microbiota, and that these changes may amplify the negative impacts of climate change through the loss of gut mutualists. While the plastic response of host‐associated microbiotas is key for host adaptation under normal environmental fluctuations, extreme temperature increases might lead to a breakdown of coevolved host–mutualist relationships.
Statin use impairs muscle strength recovery in post‐stroke patients with sarcopenia
Authors: Matsumoto Ayaka , Yoshimura Yoshihiro , Nagano Fumihiko , Bise Takahiro , Kido Yoshifumi , Shimazu Sayuri , Shiraishi Ai
Published: July 2023

Aim

The effects of statins on muscle health are not well established. Therefore, this study investigated the impact of statin use on muscle strength and mass recovery in patients with sarcopenia after stroke.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included stroke patients with sarcopenia hospitalized between 2015 and 2021 at a post‐acute rehabilitation hospital. Sarcopenia was diagnosed using handgrip strength and skeletal muscle mass index measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis according to the 2019 criteria of the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia. The study outcomes included handgrip strength and skeletal muscle mass index at hospital discharge. We used multivariate analyses to examine whether statin use was independently associated with the outcomes. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results

Of the 586 patients enrolled, 241 (mean age 79.3 years, 44.4% men) presented with sarcopenia and were included in the analysis. Statin use was observed in 61 (25.3%) patients. Statin use was independently negatively associated with handgrip strength at discharge (β = −0.095, P = 0.032), but not with skeletal muscle mass index at discharge (β = 0.019, P = 0.692).

Conclusions

Statin use was negatively associated with muscle strength recovery, but not with muscle mass in patients with sarcopenia who underwent rehabilitation after stroke. To maximize outcomes, sufficient consideration is needed for statin use in these patients. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2023; 23: 676–683.
Sleep deficiency among people living with human immunodeficiency virus: A growing challenge
Authors: Reisert Hailey , Miner Brienne , Farhadian Shelli
Published: July 2023

Purpose of review

The purpose of this narrative review is to consolidate and summarize the existing literature on sleep deficiency among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV; PLWH), to discuss the potential impact of antiretroviral therapy on sleep deficiency and to identify priorities for future research in this area.

Recent findings

Three important domains of sleep deficiency include alterations in sleep quality (including sleep disorders), duration and timing. The existing HIV and sleep deficiency literature, which is robust for sleep quality but sparser for sleep duration or sleep timing, has identified epidemiological correlates and outcomes associated with sleep deficiency including sociodemographic factors, HIV‐specific factors, aspects of physical and mental health and cognition.

Sleep deficiency is a common problem among PLWH and is likely underdiagnosed, although more high‐quality research is needed in this area. Sleep quality has received the most attention in the literature via methodologies that assess subjective/self‐reported sleep quality, objective sleep quality or both. There is significantly less research on sleep duration and minimal research on sleep timing. Use of certain antiretroviral therapy drugs may be associated with sleep deficiency for some individuals. Future research should utilize larger, longitudinal studies with consistent, comprehensive and validated methods to assess both subjective and objective measures of sleep deficiency to better understand the prevalence, correlates and clinical implications of sleep deficiency in PLWH.