bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent trends in supply chain management of business-to-business firms: a review and future research directions
Authors: Shrivastava Santosh
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study aims to identify the trending topics, emerging themes and future research directions in supply chain management (SCM) through multiple source of data. The insights would be of use to academics, practitioners and policymakers to leverage latest developments in addressing current and future challenges.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a multiple source of data such as published literature and social media data including supply chain blogs and forums contents on business-to-business (B2B) firms to identify trending topics, emerging themes and future research directions in SCM. Topic modeling, a machine learning technique, is used to derive the topics and themes. Examining supply chain blogs and forums offer a valuable perspective on current issues and challenges faced by B2B firms. By analyzing the content of these online discussions, the study identifies emerging themes and topics of interest to practitioners and researchers.

Findings

The study synthesizes 1,648 published articles and more than 1.3 lakh tweets, discussions and expert views from social media, including various blogs and supply chain forums, and identifies six themes, of which three are trending, and the other three are emerging themes in the supply chain. Rather than aggregate implications, the study integrates findings from two databases and proposes a framework encompassing the drivers, processes and impacts on each theme and derives promising avenues for future research.

Originality/value

Prior literature has majorly used published research articles and reports as a primary source of information to identify the trending theme and emerging topics. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study of its kind to examine the potential value of information from social media, such as blogs, websites, forums and published literature to discover new supply chain trends and themes related to B2B firms and derive encouraging possibilities for future research.
The Robotic-Human Service Trilemma: the challenges for well-being within the human service triad
Authors: Phillips Chelsea , Russell–Bennett Rebekah , Odekerken-Schröder Gaby , Mahr Dominik , Letheren Kate
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The human service triad (i.e. the relationship between the customer, frontline employee (FLE) and managerial employee) experiences a range of well-being challenges when faced with the introduction of service robots. Despite growth in service robot scholarship, understanding of the well-being challenges affecting the human service triad remains fragmented. Hence, the purpose of this paper is to synthesise the literature and offer a research agenda aligned with the proposed Robotic-Human Service Trilemma. By taking a job performance approach (which considers the actions, behaviours and outcomes linked to organisational goals), the Robotic-Human Service Trilemma conceptualises three well-being challenges (intrusion, sideline and interchange). These challenges are realised via the realistic capabilities and constraints of service robot implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

This research relies on a systematic review of all disciplines concerning service robots. In total, 82 articles were analysed using thematic coding and led to the development of the Robotic-Human Service Trilemma and research agenda.

Findings

The analyses reveal the Robotic-Human Service Trilemma consists of three challenges: intrusion, sideline and indifference. The findings demonstrate that FLEs are required to counterbalance the constraints of service robots, leading to an uneven well-being burden within the human service triad. This paper suggests a research agenda for investigation of the challenges that underpin the Robotic-Human Service Trilemma.

Originality/value

Through the conceptualisation of the Robotic-Human Service Trilemma, this study is the first to explore how states of well-being equilibrium exist within the human service triad and how these states are challenged by service robots. The authors present a balanced centricity perspective to well-being that contrasts previous trade-off approaches and that enhances the body of service robot literature with a well-being lens.
Wellbeing implications of BoP marketing: a service ecosystem approach
Authors: Shukla Yupal , Singh Ramendra , Dwivedi Prabhat , Chatterjee Ravi
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The socioeconomically deprived segment called bottom of pyramid lives in extreme resource-constrained environments and is being excluded from having access to many services. This study aims to investigate the role played by virtual engagement platforms in bringing well-being to base of the pyramid (BoP) customers. This study also uses transformative service research and service ecosystem-based approach.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses qualitative approach. Data was collected and analyzed through 16 in-depth interviews with BoP service actors.

Findings

Present study explains the role played by virtual engagement platforms as an intermediator between farmers and the service entity. Herein, it may be noted that the role of virtual platforms contributes to the well-being of the BoP community.

Originality/value

The authors’ research work broadens service organizations’ reach by better serving people in the BoP, which ultimately helps in removing unfairness and establishes service inclusion.
The way you make me feel: a network analysis of social ties that could exacerbate compulsive exercise among a sample of sorority women
Authors: Patterson Megan S. , Spadine Mandy N. , Francis Allison N. , Prochnow Tyler
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to assess factors related to sorority women connecting with people who exacerbate feelings of exercise guilt and body dissatisfaction (BD), both of which preclude compulsive exercise.

Design/methodology/approach

In all, 207 sorority women (egos) completed online surveys measuring physical activity, BD, compulsive exercise and egocentric networks (n = 1,105 social ties/alters). Two random coefficient multilevel models assessed factors related to an ego connecting to someone who makes her feel: guilty about her exercise habits and good about her looks.

Findings

Exercise patterns within networks related to how often an alter made ego feel guilty about her exercise habits; alter gender and communication frequency related to how often an alter made ego feel good about her looks; and ego’s BD score was related to both feelings of guilt and body satisfaction.

Originality/value

The findings of this study support and extend literature highlighting the importance of someone’s immediate social network on their body image and related behaviors.
Toward data-driven research: preliminary study to predict surface roughness in material extrusion using previously published data with machine learning
Authors: García-Martínez Fátima , Carou Diego , de Arriba-Pérez Francisco , García-Méndez Silvia
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Material extrusion is one of the most commonly used approaches within the additive manufacturing processes available. Despite its popularity and related technical advancements, process reliability and quality assurance remain only partially solved. In particular, the surface roughness caused by this process is a key concern. To solve this constraint, experimental plans have been exploited to optimize surface roughness in recent years. However, the latter empirical trial and error process is extremely time- and resource consuming. Thus, this study aims to avoid using large experimental programs to optimize surface roughness in material extrusion.

Design/methodology/approach

This research provides an in-depth analysis of the effect of several printing parameters: layer height, printing temperature, printing speed and wall thickness. The proposed data-driven predictive modeling approach takes advantage of Machine Learning (ML) models to automatically predict surface roughness based on the data gathered from the literature and the experimental data generated for testing.

Findings

Using ten-fold cross-validation of data gathered from the literature, the proposed ML solution attains a 0.93 correlation with a mean absolute percentage error of 13%. When testing with our own data, the correlation diminishes to 0.79 and the mean absolute percentage error reduces to 8%. Thus, the solution for predicting surface roughness in extrusion-based printing offers competitive results regarding the variability of the analyzed factors.

Research limitations/implications

There are limitations in obtaining large volumes of reliable data, and the variability of the material extrusion process is relatively high.

Originality/value

Although ML is not a novel methodology in additive manufacturing, the use of published data from multiple sources has barely been exploited to train predictive models. As available manufacturing data continue to increase on a daily basis, the ability to learn from these large volumes of data is critical in future manufacturing and science. Specifically, the power of ML helps model surface roughness with limited experimental tests.
Simulation-based optimization of bus departure scheme for large airport considering passenger evacuation
Authors: Zhou Fuquan
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study aims to optimize the traffic capacity allocation to solve the problem of low share of public transit in the landside system so as to get rid of the congestion trouble in landside traffic. The optimal timetable for airport buses can be searched by changing the departure interval of each line and evaluating the corresponding performance continuously.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper constructs a simulation model based on the real-world situation in Beijing Capital International Airport (BCIA), which simulates the whole process of airport bus schedules and analyzes the connections among multiple steps for transferring. The evaluation system is constructed by considering the benefits of passengers, airports and companies comprehensively. The optimal timetable for airport buses can be searched by changing the departure interval of each line and evaluating the corresponding performance continuously.

Findings

According to the experimental results, an excellent evacuation effect can only be achieved when the majority of departure intervals of airport buses are shortened to 50% of their original values, and some busy routes such as the Beijing Station line are supposed to be reduced to one-third of their original fixed intervals. As the airport bus passenger flow presents an obviously periodic variation over days, the timetable of the airport bus is supposed to be redesigned every day. A flexible bus timetable can not only meet the dynamic passenger flow but also enhance the attractiveness of public transit.

Originality/value

This paper constructs a simulation model based on the real-world situation in BCIA, which can not only model the complex scenes in the whole process of airport bus schedules but also reflect the intricate interaction between transferring passengers and vehicles caused by dense streamlines.
Hospitality sustainable practices, a global perspective
Authors: Sharma Rekha
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to discern the impacts of the hospitality industry on the global ecosystem and how sustainable learning can help strengthen the tourism and hospitality industry globally. Deployment of strategies such as change management is required, and in so doing, this is likely to have an impact on economic gain, society and the environment.

Design/methodology/approach

This is an exploratory study based on secondary data drawn from relevant books, articles, journals and online sources. The opinions of the key stakeholders are compiled and discussed to provide further guidance.

Findings

The results show that although there is a lot of variance in the information that hotel chains publicly disclose about their sustainability commitments and accomplishments, they are committed to a wide variety of environmental, social and economic issues. It also points to indicators that the global hotel industry is currently pursuing “weak” rather than “strong” practices of sustainability and that efficiency gains are framed within existing business models that focus on continued growth.

Practical implications

The study provides guidance for global hospitality chains given that they are well positioned to play a leading role in promoting sustainability. Yet more can be done to broaden sustainability and reporting in the context of an external assurance framework. The study should also be helpful to hospitality managers, students and academics with an interest in hospitality industry sustainable practices.

Originality/value

The study explores the challenges that industry faces in ensuring sustainability is embedded in all aspects of learning and in equipping sustainability-sensitive individuals to make a difference.
Analgesic efficacy of continuous wound infiltration compared with continuous intravenous fentanyl after gynaecological surgery: a non‐inferiority, randomised controlled trial
Authors: Kuriyama Mayu , Nakamura Hirotaka , Tanabe Serabi , Morikawa Yoshihiko , Kaneko Tetsuji , Kohyama Akira
Published: May 2023

Objective

The present trial aimed to prove the non‐inferiority of the analgesic efficacy of continuous wound infiltration (CWI) to that of continuous intravenous fentanyl (IV) and to compare the safety of the two methods.

Methods

This trial was a prospective, single‐centre, two‐arm, non‐inferiority, randomised controlled trial. Patients participating in the trial were randomised to a CWI group or an IV group. The VAS (visual analogue scale), additional analgesic usage and side effects were then compared between the groups.

Results

In total, 61 patients were enrolled; two in CWI were excluded, leaving 59 (30 in the CWI group and 29 in the IV group) for analysis. The difference in the VAS score at 24 h (CWI group – IV group) was −3.2 (95% confidence interval [CI] −14.7 to 8.2), which was less than the non‐inferiority margin of 15. The mean amount of total fentanyl use at postoperative hour 48 was 1395 (95% CI 886–1903) µg in the CWI group and 3186 (95% CI 2716–3658) µg in the IV group. The amount of other analgesics and the incidence of adverse effects did not differ significantly between the groups.

Conclusion

CWI was non‐inferior to IV in terms of its analgesic effect, and has an opioid sparing effect in open gynaecological surgery.
Deep learning PET/CT‐based radiomics integrates clinical data: A feasibility study to distinguish between tuberculosis nodules and lung cancer
Authors: Zhang Xiaolei , Dong Xianling , Saripan M. Iqbal bin , Du Dongyang , Wu Yanjun , Wang Zhongxiao , Cao Zhendong , Wen Dong , Liu Yanli , Marhaban Mohammad Hamiruce
Published: May 2023

Background

Radiomic diagnosis models generally consider only a single dimension of information, leading to limitations in their diagnostic accuracy and reliability. The integration of multiple dimensions of information into the deep learning model have the potential to improve its diagnostic capabilities. The purpose of study was to evaluate the performance of deep learning model in distinguishing tuberculosis (TB) nodules and lung cancer (LC) based on deep learning features, radiomic features, and clinical information.

Methods

Positron emission tomography (PET) and computed tomography (CT) image data from 97 patients with LC and 77 patients with TB nodules were collected. One hundred radiomic features were extracted from both PET and CT imaging using the pyradiomics platform, and 2048 deep learning features were obtained through a residual neural network approach. Four models included traditional machine learning model with radiomic features as input (traditional radiomics), a deep learning model with separate input of image features (deep convolutional neural networks [DCNN]), a deep learning model with two inputs of radiomic features and deep learning features (radiomics‐DCNN) and a deep learning model with inputs of radiomic features and deep learning features and clinical information (integrated model). The models were evaluated using area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, accuracy, specificity, and F1‐score metrics.

Results

The results of the classification of TB nodules and LC showed that the integrated model achieved an AUC of 0.84 (0.82–0.88), sensitivity of 0.85 (0.80–0.88), and specificity of 0.84 (0.83–0.87), performing better than the other models.

Conclusion

The integrated model was found to be the best classification model in the diagnosis of TB nodules and solid LC.
PTEN‐induced kinase 1 is associated with renal aging, via the cGAS‐STING pathway
Authors: Ha Min Heui , Kim Man S. , An Hyun‐Ju , Sung Min‐Ji , Lee Yu Ho , Yang Dong‐Ho , Jung Sang Hyun , Baek Jihyun , Choi Yueun , Taylor Deanne M. , Zhang Yuanchao , Lee So‐Young , Jeong Hye Yun
Published: May 2023

Mitochondrial dysfunction is considered to be an important mediator of the pro‐aging process in chronic kidney disease, which is continuously increasing worldwide. Although PTEN‐induced kinase 1 (PINK1) regulates mitochondrial function, its role in renal aging remains unclear. We investigated the association between PINK1 and renal aging, especially through the cGAS‐STING pathway, which is known to result in an inflammatory phenotype. Pink1 knockout (Pink1−/−) C57BL/6 mice and senescence‐induced renal tubular epithelial cells (HKC‐8) treated with H2O2 were used as the renal aging models. Extensive analyses at transcriptomic‐metabolic levels have explored changes in mitochondrial function in PINK1 deficiency. To investigate whether PINK1 deficiency affects renal aging through the cGAS‐STING pathway, we explored their expression levels in PINK1 knockout mice and senescence‐induced HKC‐8 cells. PINK1 deficiency enhances kidney fibrosis and tubular injury, and increases senescence and the senescence‐associated secretory phenotype (SASP). These phenomena were most apparent in the 24‐month‐old Pink1−/− mice and HKC‐8 cells treated with PINK1 siRNA and H2O2. Gene expression analysis using RNA sequencing showed that PINK1 deficiency is associated with increased inflammatory responses, and transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses suggested that PINK1 deficiency is related to mitochondrial metabolic dysregulation. Activation of cGAS‐STING was prominent in the 24‐month‐old Pink1−/− mice. The expression of SASPs was most noticeable in senescence‐induced HKC‐8 cells and was attenuated by the STING inhibitor, H151. PINK1 is associated with renal aging, and mitochondrial dysregulation by PINK1 deficiency might stimulate the cGAS‐STING pathway, eventually leading to senescence‐related inflammatory responses.
Ebb and flow: Structural and spatial change in Victoria's brewing industry, 1870–1900
Authors: Wood Gavin , Martin Declan , Taylor Liz
Published: May 2023

The brewing industry has undergone profound structural and spatial change over the last 150 years. We examine how consolidation began in Victoria's brewing industry using a historical GIS approach. We argue that industry restructuring was shaped by four interlocking dynamics between 1870 and 1900: (1) structural economic change; (2) railway development; (3) technological innovation; and (4) regulatory reform. We show that the ebb and flow of these interacting dynamics generated a non‐linear process of change. Similar to North America and Europe, the industry became highly concentrated. However, this process was complicated by local factors such as climate, economy, and distance.
Leopards living at the farmland‐protected area interface prefer wild prey but consume high biomass of livestock
Authors: Jansen C. , Leslie A. J. , Cristescu B. , Teichman K. J. , Martins Q. E.
Published: May 2023

In much of southern Africa, the leopard (Panthera pardus) is the last remaining large carnivore outside protected areas. We collected leopard scat (n = 82) opportunistically to determine the diet of leopards on small livestock farms and an adjacent national park in semi‐arid Namaqualand, South Africa. We quantified prey availability using camera traps (n = 163 stations) in an 810 km2grid. Leopards strongly preferred (D > 0.5) rock hyrax (Procavia capensis), red hartebeest (Alcelaphus buselaphus) and klipspringer (Oreotragus oreotragus), but goats (Capra hircus) were consumed in highest biomass. Conservation strategies to decrease livestock losses and minimise leopard persecution are needed in Namaqualand and more broadly on livestock farmland neighbouring‐protected areas.
Infanticide by male gelada leader and group counterstrategies
Authors: Kifle Zewdu
Published: May 2023

Infanticide by males following the takeover and the acquisition of females with unweaned offspring has been observed in primate species. Like many other primate species, geladas (Theropithecus gelada) commit infanticide by nonsire males to enhance their reproductive success. Direct observation of infanticide is a rare phenomenon in geladas. During my stay in the field, I observed clear evidence of infanticide by nonsire male gelada. Adult females and juveniles of the group tried to stop the killing through scrambling, shouting, loudness, caustic and aggression. However, they could not save the infant's life. After they confirmed the death of the infant the group left the area. This direct observation confirms to provide reliable information on the occurrences of infanticide by male geladas in the wild. Such infanticide by nonsire male geladas most probably occurs to hasten mating receptivity in the females. Mass physical group defence strategy is counter adaptations to reduce the likelihood of infanticide by nonsire male geladas.
A phase 1 study to investigate the absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion of brepocitinib in healthy males using a 14C‐microdose approach
Authors: Qiu Ruolun , Sharma Raman , Wei Hua , Kirkovsky Leonid , Zhou Yifan , Martin David D. A. , Banfield Christopher , Dowty Martin E.
Published: May 2023

Aims

Brepocitinib is a tyrosine kinase 2/Janus kinase 1 inhibitor being investigated for the treatment of several autoimmune diseases. This study assessed the absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion of oral brepocitinib, and the absolute oral bioavailability (F) and fraction absorbed (Fa) using a 14C microtracer approach.

Methods

This was a phase 1 open‐label, nonrandomized, fixed sequence, two‐period, single‐dose study of brepocitinib in healthy male participants. Participants received a single oral 60 mg dose of 14C brepocitinib (~300 nCi) in Period A, then an unlabelled oral 60 mg dose followed by an intravenous (IV) 30 μg dose of 14C labelled brepocitinib (~300 nCi) in Period B. Mass balance, pharmacokinetic parameters and safety were assessed.

Results

Six participants were enrolled. Brepocitinib was absorbed rapidly following oral administration. In Period A, total recovery of the oral dose was 96.7% ± 6.3% (88.0% ± 8.0% in urine, 8.7% ± 2.1% in faeces). In Period B, a small fraction (6.0% of the oral dose) was recovered unchanged in urine. F and Fa were 74.6% (90% confidence interval 67.3%, 82.8%) and 106.9%, respectively. Brepocitinib demonstrated an acceptable safety profile and was well tolerated following oral or oral then IV administrations. No deaths, serious adverse events or discontinuations were reported.

Conclusion

Intestinal absorption of brepocitinib was essentially complete after oral administration, with F ~75%. Drug‐related material recovery was high, with the majority excreted in urine. The major route of elimination of brepocitinib was renal excretion as metabolites, whereas urinary elimination of unchanged brepocitinib was minor.

NCT: NCT03770039.
Sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors and the risk of venous thromboembolism: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Aloe Stephanie , Filliter Christopher , Salmasi Shahrzad , Igweokpala Samuel , Yu Oriana H. Y. , Tagalakis Vicky , Filion Kristian B.
Published: May 2023

Aims

The cardiovascular benefits of sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2Is) result from their complex impact on coronary and arterial vessels. However, their effect on veins and the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) remains unclear. Meta‐analysis of trials has suggested no significant change in risk, but observational studies on the topic are scarce. Our objective was to determine if the use of SGLT2Is, compared to the use of dipeptidyl peptidase 4 inhibitors (DPP‐4Is), is associated with the risk of VTE among patients with type 2 diabetes.

Methods

Using the Clinical Practice Research Datalink linked to hospitalization and vital statistics databases, we conducted a retrospective cohort study using a prevalent new‐user design. SGLT2Is were matched to DPP‐4I users on calendar time, diabetes treatment intensity, duration of previous DPP‐4I use and time‐conditional high‐dimensional propensity score. Cox proportional hazard models estimated the hazard ratio (HR) for VTE with SGLT2Is versus DPP‐4Is.

Results

SGLT2I use was not associated with an increased risk of VTE (HR 0.65, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.34 to 1.25). This finding was consistent among prevalent (HR 0.47, 95% CI 0.16 to 1.42) and incident (HR 0.75, 95% CI 0.33 to 1.72) new users.

Conclusions

We found that SGLT2Is were not associated with an increased risk of VTE compared to DPP‐4Is. Although we observed a numerically decreased risk of VTE with SGLT2Is, estimates were accompanied by wide 95% CIs. Nonetheless, given the morbidity associated with VTE, our results provide some reassurance regarding the safety of SGLT2Is with respect to VTE.
Effects of itraconazole and carbamazepine on the pharmacokinetics of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir in healthy adults
Authors: Cox Donna S. , Van Eyck Lien , Pawlak Sylvester , Beckerman Bruce , Linn Carlos , Ginman Katherine , Thay Cha Youliny , LaBadie Robert R. , Shi Haihong , Damle Bharat
Published: May 2023

Aims

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of a strong cytochrome P450 family (CYP) 3A4 inhibitor (itraconazole) and inducer (carbamazepine) on the pharmacokinetics and safety of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir.

Methods

Pharmacokinetics were measured in two phase 1, open‐label, fixed‐sequence studies in healthy adults. During Period 1, oral nirmatrelvir/ritonavir 300 mg/100 mg twice daily was administered alone; during Period 2, it was administered with itraconazole or carbamazepine. Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir was administered as repeated doses or one dose in the itraconazole and carbamazepine studies, respectively. Nirmatrelvir and ritonavir plasma concentrations and adverse event (AE) rates in both periods were analysed.

Results

Each study included 12 participants. Following administration of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir with itraconazole (Test) or alone (Reference), test/reference ratios of the adjusted geometric means (90% CIs) for nirmatrelvir AUCtau and Cmax were 138.82% (129.25%, 149.11%) and 118.57% (112.50%, 124.97%), respectively. After administration of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir with carbamazepine (Test) or alone (Reference), test/reference ratios (90% CIs) of the adjusted geometric means for nirmatrelvir AUCinf and Cmax were 44.50% (33.77%, 58.65%) and 56.82% (47.04%, 68.62%), respectively. Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir was generally safe when administered with or without itraconazole or carbamazepine. No serious or severe AEs were reported.

Conclusions

Coadministration of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor with a strong CYP3A inhibitor used for pharmacokinetic enhancement (i.e., ritonavir) resulted in small increases in plasma nirmatrelvir exposure, whereas coadministration of a strong inducer substantially decreased systemic nirmatrelvir and ritonavir exposures suggesting a contraindication in the label with CYP3A4 strong inducers. Administration of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir alone or with itraconazole or carbamazepine was generally safe.
Outcomes of switching to avatrombopag following treatment failure with eltrombopag in paediatric immune thrombocytopenia: A real‐world study in China
Authors: Cheng Xiaoling , Wang Zhifa , Dong Shuyue , Ma Jingyao , Meng Jinxi , Wang Xiaoling , Wu Runhui
Published: May 2023

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an autoimmune bleeding disorder characterized by isolated thrombocytopenia and a haemorrhagic risk. Thrombopoietin receptor agonists (TPO‐RAs) are highly effective for ITP and are widely used to treat patients with steroid treatment failure or dependency. However, although treatment response to TPO‐RAs may differ according to the type, the potential impact of switching from eltrombopag (ELT) to avatrombopag (AVA) with respect to efficacy or tolerance in children remains unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of switching from ELT to AVA in paediatric patients with ITP. We retrospectively evaluated children with chronic immune thrombocytopenia (cITP) switched from ELT to AVA owing to treatment failure at the Hematology‐Oncology Center of Beijing Children's Hospital between July 2021 and May 2022. Overall, 11 children (seven and four boys and girls respectively) with a median age of 8.3 (range: 3.8–15.3) years were included. The overall response and complete response (platelet [PLT] count ≥100 × 109/L) rates during AVA treatment were 81.8% (9/11) and 54.6% (6/11) respectively. The median PLT count was significantly increased from ELT to AVA (7 [range: 2–33] × 109/L vs. 74 [15–387] × 109/L; p = 0.007). The median time to PLT count ≥30 × 109/L was 18 (range: 3–120) days. Overall, 7/11 patients (63.6%) used concomitant medications, and concomitant medication use was gradually discontinued within 3–6 months after AVA initiation. In conclusion, AVA after ELT is effective in the heavily pretreated paediatric cITP population, with high response rates even in those with an inadequate response to a prior TPO‐RA.
The GLA:D BACK self‐management adherence and competence checklist (SMAC Checklist)—Development, content validity and feasibility
Authors: Heiberg Bibi Dige , Ris Inge , Lauridsen Henrik Hein , Hartvigsen Jan , Myburgh Corrie , Kongsted Alice
Published: May 2023

Objectives

To unpack the complexity and impact of self‐management interventions targeting musculoskeletal health conditions, we need to learn more about treatment delivery in clinical settings. Fidelity evaluation can illuminate how complex treatments are delivered and help understand the elements that lead to the effect. The objective of this study was to develop a checklist for the evaluation of the clinicians’ delivery of structured patient education and exercise intervention for people with persistent back pain, the GLA:D Back intervention. The intent was to provide a checklist adaptable for the general delivery of self‐management interventions for musculoskeletal pain.

Methods

We derived items for the treatment delivery fidelity checklist from behaviour change techniques and theory about communication style. We applied a three‐step developmental process covering developing a preliminary fidelity intervention framework, validating checklist content and piloting and refining the checklist.

Results

We developed the adaptable fidelity checklist, The GLA:D BACK Self‐management Adherence and Competence Checklist (SMAC Checklist). Evaluation of clinical practice using the checklist was feasible and acceptable by clinicians. Preliminary results indicate satisfactory observer agreement during pilot testing of the checklist.

Conclusion

The GLA:D BACK Self‐management Adherence and Competence Checklist is a fidelity measurement tool for the assessment of the delivery of a self‐management supportive intervention for people with persistent back pain. The intention is that it can be useful as an adaptable tool for use across self‐management interventions for musculoskeletal pain.
A novel EGFR inhibitor, HNPMI, regulates apoptosis and oncogenesis by modulating BCL‐2/BAX and p53 in colon cancer
Authors: Kandhavelu Jeyalakshmi , Subramanian Kumar , Naidoo Vivash , Sebastianelli Giulia , Doan Phuong , Konda Mani Saravanan , Yapislar Hande , Haciosmanoglu Ebru , Arslan Leman , Ozer Samed , Thiyagarajan Ramesh , Candeias Nuno R. , Penny Clement , Kandhavelu Meenakshisundaram , Murugesan Akshaya
Published: May 2023

Background and Purpose

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most lethal disease, with high mortality due to its heterogeneity and chemo‐resistance. Here, we have focused on the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) as an effective therapeutic target in CRC and studied the effects of polyphenols known to modulate several key signalling mechanisms including EGFR signalling, associated with anti‐proliferative and anti‐metastatic properties.

Experimental Approach

Using ligand‐ and structure‐based cheminformatics, we developed three potent, selective alkylaminophenols, 2‐[(3,4‐dihydroquinolin‐1(2H)‐yl)(p‐tolyl)methyl]phenol (THTMP), 2‐[(1,2,3,4‐tetrahydroquinolin‐1‐yl)(4‐methoxyphenyl)methyl]phenol (THMPP) and N‐[2‐hydroxy‐5‐nitrophenyl(4′‐methylphenyl)methyl]indoline (HNPMI). These alkylaminophenols were assessed for EGFR interaction, EGFR‐pathway modulation, cytotoxic and apoptosis induction, caspase activation and transcriptional and translational regulation. The lead compound HNPMI was evaluated in mice bearing xenografts of CRC cells.

Key Results

Of the three alkylaminophenols tested, HNPMI exhibited the lowest IC50 in CRC cells and potential cytotoxic effects on other tumour cells. Modulation of EGFR pathway down‐regulated protein levels of osteopontin, survivin and cathepsin S, leading to apoptosis. Cell cycle analysis revealed that HNPMI induced G0/G1 phase arrest in CRC cells. HNPMI altered the mRNA for and protein levels of several apoptosis‐related proteins including caspase 3, BCL‐2 and p53. HNPMI down‐regulated the proteins crucial to oncogenesis in CRC cells. Assays in mice bearing CRC xenografts showed that HNPMI reduced the relative tumour volume.

Conclusions and Implications

HNPMI is a promising EGFR inhibitor for clinical translation. HNPMI regulated apoptosis and oncogenesis by modulating BCL‐2/BAX and p53 in CRC cell lines, showing potential as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of CRC.
Clinical and radiographic assessment of circular versus triangular cross‐section neck implants in the posterior maxilla: Five‐year follow‐up of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Hurtgen Alexandre , Seidel Laurence , Manni Lou Li , Liegeois Lemmy , Lecloux Geoffrey , Lambert France
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Dental implants with a triangular neck design have been developed in order to maintain peri‐implant bone. The primary aim of this randomized controlled trial (RCT) was to assess after 5 years the peri‐implant bone stability and the peri‐implant soft tissue conditions with this new triangular implant neck design compared to a conventional round neck implant design.

Material and Methods

This is a secondary evaluation of a RCT including 34 patients. Patients were recalled after 1, 3, and finally 5 years to assess implant survival and peri‐implant bone levels using standardized radiographs. Peri‐implant soft tissue health was also evaluated by recording probing depth, plaque index and Bleeding on Probing. Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) and the Pink Esthetic Score were also assessed.

Results

No implant loss occurred during the 5‐year follow up period. The mean ± SD proximal bone remodeling after 5 years reached 0.38 ± 0.39 mm for the circular design and 0.29 ± 0.58 mm for the triangular design (p = .49). Peri‐implant soft tissue health parameters and PROMs were found to be comparable. Altogether, 80% of implants presented peri‐implant mucositis whereas one implant (4%) displayed sings of peri‐implantitis.

Conclusion

The 5‐year evaluation of the triangular neck implants showed similar results to the circular neck implants.
Hypericin as a potential drug for treating Alzheimer's disease and type 2 diabetes with a view to drug repositioning
Authors: Yuan Xin , Yan Fei , Gao Li‐Hui , Ma Qian‐Hui , Wang Ju
Published: May 2023

Aims

Alzheimer's disease (AD) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) are two of the most common diseases in elderly population and they have a high rate of comorbidity. Study has revealed that T2D is a major risk factor of AD, and thus exploring therapeutic approaches that can target both diseases has drawn much interest in recent years. In this study, we tried to explore drugs that could be potentially used to prevent or treat both AD and T2D via a drug repositioning approach.

Methods

We first searched the known drugs that may be effective to T2D treatment based on the network distance between the T2D‐associated genes and drugs deposited in the DrugBank database. Then, via molecular docking, we further screened these drugs by examining their interaction with islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP) and Aβ42 peptide, the key components involved in the pathogenesis of T2D or AD. Finally, the binding between the selected drug candidates and the target proteins was verified by molecular dynamics (MD) simulation; and the potential function of the drug candidates and the corresponding targets were analyzed.

Results

From multiple resources, 734 T2D‐associated genes were collected, and a list of 1109 drug candidates for T2D was obtained. We found that hypericin had the lowest binding energy and the most stable interaction with either IAPP or Aβ42 peptide. In addition, we also found that the target genes regulated by hypericin were differentially expressed in the tissues related to the two diseases.

Conclusion

Our results show that hypericin may be able to bind with IAPP and Aβ42 stably and prevent their accumulation, and thus could be a promising drug candidate for treating the comorbidity of AD and T2D.
Results of the interim analysis of a prospective, multicenter, observational study of small subepithelial lesions in the stomach
Authors: Iwamuro Masaya , Mitsuhashi Toshiharu , Inaba Tomoki , Matsueda Kazuhiro , Nagahara Teruya , Takeuchi Yoji , Doyama Hisashi , Mizuno Masakatsu , Yada Tomoyuki , Kawai Yoshinari , Nakamura Jun , Matsubara Minoru , Nebiki Hiroko , Niimi Keiko , Toyokawa Tatsuya , Takenaka Ryuta , Takeda Sho , Tanaka Shouichi , Nishimura Mamoru , Tsuzuki Takao , Akahoshi Kazuya , Furuta Takahisa , Haruma Ken , Okada Hiroyuki
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Long‐term outcomes of gastric subepithelial lesions have not been elucidated. To reveal the natural history, we initiated a prospective, 10‐year follow‐up of patients with small (≤20 mm) gastric subepithelial lesions in September 2014. Here, we report the results of an interim analysis of a prospective observational study.

Methods

In total, 567 patients with 610 lesions were prospectively registered between September 2014 and August 2016. The location, size, morphology, and number of subepithelial lesions were recorded on a web‐based case report form. This study has been conducted as an Academic Committee Working Group of the Japan Gastroenterological Endoscopy Society.

Results

The endoscopic follow‐up period was 4.60 ± 1.73 years (mean ± standard deviation), and survival data were investigated for 5.28 ± 1.68 years. This interim analysis revealed that the estimated cumulative incidence of a size increase ≥5 mm, after accounting for patients' death and resection of the tumor as competing risk events, was 4.5% at 5 years. In addition, the estimated cumulative incidence of lesion size increase ≥5 mm or resection of lesions was 7.9% at 5 years, and that of size increase ≥10 mm or resection of lesions was 4.5% at 5 years.

Conclusion

These results indicate that approximately one in 13 patients with small (≤20 mm) gastric subepithelial lesions may require resection or further investigation for increased tumor size (≥5 mm) within 5 years.
Clinical correlates of fear of falling in progressive supranuclear palsy and multiple system atrophy
Authors: Martínez‐Villota Viviana A. , Terroba‐Chambi Cinthia , Castillo‐Torres Sergio A. , Rossi Malco , Merello Marcelo
Published: May 2023

Background and purpose

Clinical correlates of fear of falling (FoF) are scarcely studied in patients with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) and multiple system atrophy (MSA). This study was undertaken to evaluate the clinical correlates of FoF in PSP and MSA.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study features motor, cognitive, and psychiatric assessment and longitudinal evaluation of falls and FoF at 6‐month follow‐up.

Results

Twenty‐one patients with PSP‐parkinsonism, 22 patients with MSA (13 parkinsonian type and nine cerebellar type), and 22 healthy controls were evaluated; 76.2% of patients with PSP and 86.4% of patients with MSA had FoF regardless of falls. Berg Balance Scale (p < 0.001), Tinetti Mobility Test (p < 0.01), Beck Anxiety Inventory (p = 0.001), and Beck Depression Inventory‐II (p = 0.01) correlated with FoF in patients with PSP and MSA, whereas Timed Up and Go test (p = 0.01) and Starkstein Apathy Scale correlated only in MSA (p = 0.04).

Conclusions

Mobility, balance, and gait performance as well as anxiety and depression in PSP and MSA, and apathy in MSA, were determinants of FoF. These findings underline the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to FoF in neurodegenerative atypical parkinsonism.
TheCYP24A1gene variant rs2762943 is associated with low serum 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D levels in multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Malhotra Sunny , Midaglia Luciana , Chuquisana Omar , Patsopoulos Nikolaos A. , Ferrer Roser , Giralt Marina , Fissolo Nicolas , Gil‐Varea Elia , Triviño Juan Carlos , Lünemann Jan D. , Montalban Xavier , Comabella Manuel
Published: May 2023

Background and purpose

Vitamin D is considered to play a role in multiple sclerosis (MS) etiopathogenesis. A polymorphism in theCYP24A1gene, rs2762943, was recently identified that was associated with an increased MS risk.CYP24A1encodes a protein involved in the catabolism of the active form of vitamin D. The immunological effects of carrying the rs2762943 risk allele were investigated, as well as its role as genetic modifier.

Methods

Serum levels of 25‐hydroxyvitamin D and 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)2D) were measured in a cohort of 167 MS patients. In a subgroup of patients, expression levels of major histocompatibility complex class II and co‐stimulatory molecules were determined by flow cytometry, and serum levels of pro‐inflammatory (interferon gamma, granulocyte macrophage colony‐stimulating factor, C‐X‐C motif chemokine ligand 13) and anti‐inflammatory (interleukin 10) cytokines and neurofilament light chain were measured by single‐molecule array assays. The effect of the rs2762943 polymorphism on disease activity and disability measures was evaluated in 340 MS patients.

Results

Compared to non‐carriers, carriers of the rs2762943 risk allele were characterized by reduced levels of 1,25(OH)2D (p = 0.0001) and elevated levels of interferon gamma (p = 0.03) and granulocyte macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (p = 0.008), whereas no significant differences were observed for the other markers. The presence of the rs2762943 risk allele had no significant impact on disease activity and disability outcomes during follow‐up. However, risk allele carriers were younger at disease onset (p = 0.04).

Conclusions

These findings suggest that theCYP24A1rs2762943 polymorphism plays a more important role in MS susceptibility than in disease prognosis and is associated with lower 1,25(OH)2D levels and a heightened pro‐inflammatory environment in MS patients.
Space–time home‐range estimates and resource selection for the Critically Endangered Philippine Eagle on Mindanao
Authors: Sutton Luke J. , Ibañez Jayson C. , Salvador Dennis I. , Taraya Rowell L. , Opiso Guiller S. , Senarillos Tristan Luap P. , McClure Christopher J. W.
Published: May 2023

Quantifying home‐range size and habitat resource selection are important elements in wildlife ecology and are useful for informing conservation action. Many home‐range estimators and resource selection functions are currently in use. However, both methods are fraught with analytical issues inherent within autocorrelated movement data from irregular sampling and interpretation of resource selection model parameters to inform conservation management. Here, we apply satellite remote sensing technologies to provide updated estimates of home‐range size and first estimates of fine‐scale resource selection for six adult Philippine Eagles Pithecophaga jefferyi using a space–time autocorrelated kernel density estimate (AKDE) home‐range estimator and non‐parametric resource selection functions. All six adult Eagles showed distinct site fidelity, with continuous range residency between 2 and 18 km, 1 month after tagging. The space–time AKDE home‐range estimators had a median 95% home‐range size = 68 km2 (95% confidence interval (95% CI) 62–74 km2, range: 39–161 km2), with the median 50% core range size = 13 km2 (95% CI 11–14 km2, range 9–33 km2). From the resource selection functions, all adult Philippine Eagles used habitat high in photosynthetic leaf and canopy structure but avoided areas of old‐growth biomass and denser areas of vegetation. This is possibly due to foraging forays into secondary forest and fragmented agricultural areas away from nesting sites. For the first time, we determine two important fine‐scale spatial processes for this Critically Endangered raptor that can help in directing conservation management. Rather than employing traditional home‐range estimators and resource selection functions, we recommend that analysts consider space–time approaches and non‐parametric resource selection functions to animal movement data to explore fully space–time and resource selection.
Reporting hypoglycaemia as a hospital‐acquired complication: assessing biochemical and clinical validity
Authors: Dharma Joanna F. M. , Polmear Christine , Fourlanos Spiros , Kyi Mervyn
Published: May 2023

Background and Aims

Given treatment‐related hypoglycaemia in hospitals can lead to adverse outcomes, the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care has included hypoglycaemia as a reportable hospital‐acquired complication (HAC) with financial disincentives. However, the designation of a hypoglycaemia HAC relies on clinical coding without a defined glucose threshold or clinical context. We assessed the biochemical validity and clinical relevance of a hypoglycaemia HAC.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review on patients discharged from the Northern Health hospitals between March and August 2021 who were designated as experiencing a hypoglycaemia HAC. We assessed cases for biochemical validity (glucose <4.0 mmol), clinical context and whether they were treatment‐related (treatment with insulin or sulphonylurea). We then compared this cohort with a hospital‐wide glucometric survey based on a point‐prevalence study to determine the proportion of individuals with hypoglycaemic events that were designated as hypoglycaemia HAC.

Results

Two hundred fifty‐six admissions were coded as hypoglycaemia HAC. Eleven (4%) did not have a biochemically valid episode. Of the valid cases, 34 (14%) were not treated with any glucose‐lowering medication and 11 (4%) were treated with noninsulin, nonsulphonylurea glucose‐lowering medication. Two hundred admissions (78%) were considered treatment‐related HAC. Of 139 individuals with diabetes identified in the hospital‐wide point‐prevalence study, 25 (18%) had biochemical evidence for hypoglycaemia: 22 were treatment‐related, of which 68% were not coded as HAC.

Conclusion

Given safety and cost implications, the designation of hypoglycaemia HAC requires a standardised definition incorporating a biochemical threshold and clinical context. We propose a clinically relevant definition of hypoglycaemia HAC to promote safe diabetes care.