bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COVID-19 pandemic combating measures and competitiveness in tourism industry: moderating role of strategic dexterity
Authors: Marcel Daniel , Mohammad Haruna Isa , Ahmad Aminu
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of measures to combat Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on competitiveness in tourism in Nigeria taking strategic dexterity as the moderating variable.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey research design approach was used for the study. A total of 235 valid questionnaires gathered from the personnel of ten urban tourist centres in Nigeria were used to examine the goodness of model fit, measurement model and structural correlations between constructs. Partial least squares structural equation modelling approach (PLS-SEM) using Advanced Analysis for Composite (ADANCO 2.2.1) was used to evaluate the hypotheses.

Findings

This study finds that travel restriction, boarder closure and strategic dexterity were significant to competitiveness, among which border closures has generated the highest path coefficient. Moreover, the study finds a significant moderating role of strategic dexterity between travel restrictions, border closure and competitiveness. Future studies can reproduce the study by incorporating mediating variables covering the all-tourist centers in Nigeria.

Research limitations/implications

This study might be valuable for tourism-related stakeholders, researchers and policy makers as the result finds indicate strong effect of travel restrictions, border closure on competitiveness of urban tourism. Equally, the study provides new insight as the findings shows a significant moderating role of strategic dexterity between travel restrictions, border closure and competitiveness.

Practical implications

This study might be valuable for tourism-related stakeholders, researchers and policy makers as the result finds indicate strong effect of travel restrictions, border closure on competitiveness of urban tourism. The study provides new insight as the findings shows a significant moderating role of strategic dexterity between travel restrictions, border closure and competitiveness.

Originality/value

This study is among the few that analyses the effect of measures to combat COVID-19 pandemic on competitiveness in the urban tourism: strategic dexterity as the moderating variables. This study also contributes methodologically through the introduction of PLS-SEM approach.
“We are our own worst enemy”: a qualitative exploration of work-related stress in the construction industry
Authors: Hulls Paige M. , de Vocht Frank , Martin Richard M. , Langford Rebecca M.
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Around 400,000 working days per year are lost in the construction industry due to stress, depression or anxiety, but a large proportion of the industry – those primarily not based “on-site” – is not included in these statistics. Little research has been conducted in this group about their experiences of occupational stress. The authors explored how stress was experienced and managed by construction professionals and its perceived impact on health.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors interviewed 32 construction professionals in a British construction company, with varying levels of seniority and years in the industry. Interviews were transcribed, coded and analysed thematically.

Findings

Stress was viewed an inevitable and increasing part of the construction industry, exacerbated by recent economic challenges. Participants talked about a culture of stress and overwork but often felt unable to challenge it due to job insecurity. Senior management acknowledged stress was a problem within the industry and something that potentially threatened company productivity. Company-wide initiatives had been implemented to address stress levels (e.g. Mental Health First Aiders), but were criticised for ignoring underlying issues. Informal means of managing stress were identified, such as careful consideration of team dynamics, which allowed employees to form close bonds and using “banter” and camaraderie to relieve stress. However, the persistence of a macho male image meant some participants were reluctant to talk about their feelings at work. Participants described individual coping strategies, such as exercise, but these were hard to prioritise in challenging times.

Originality/value

There is growing recognition that health and well-being must be given greater priority in the construction industry. Industry pressures and competitive practices undermine efforts to improve staff well-being. Action must be taken at senior levels to address this conflict, while building on existing informal mechanisms of support and stress relief.
It ain’t over till it’s over: exploring the post-failure phase of new ventures in business networks
Authors: Petrucci Francesco , Milanesi Matilde
Published: June 2022

Purpose

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper is a first attempt to deal with the phenomenon of new venture failure from the business network perspective of the Industrial Marketing and Purchasing (IMP) Group. In particular, this study aims to explore the post-failure phase of a new venture to investigate what happens to the new venture’s resources and relationships in the aftermath of its failure and the role of the entrepreneur in this process.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper builds on an explorative multiple case study of two failed new ventures, unfolding the failure and post-failure phase: evidence from both cases is confronted and discussed.

Findings

This study shows that the post-failure is a complex phase of recombination of activities and residual resources that may lead to new business opportunities. It is discussed that residual resources influence the direction and extent of post-failure activities in terms of restrictions as well as opportunities to restart new projects or ventures. It is also shown how the entrepreneur deals with the “business remains”.

Originality/value

While much attention has been devoted to new ventures’ failure, the paper focuses on the post-failure phase, an almost neglected topic in industrial marketing research. This study sheds some new light upon the journey through which entrepreneurs come to develop the set of resources, activities and relationships that are not only key to the establishment of the venture but also relevant in the complex and intricate trajectories of post-failure.
Forecasting country conflict using statistical learning methods
Authors: Neumann Sarah , Ahner Darryl , Hill Raymond R.
Published: June 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to examine whether changing the clustering of countries within a United States Combatant Command (COCOM) area of responsibility promotes improved forecasting of conflict.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper statistical learning methods are used to create new country clusters that are then used in a comparative analysis of model-based conflict prediction.

Findings

In this study a reorganization of the countries assigned to specific areas of responsibility are shown to provide improvements in the ability of models to predict conflict.

Research limitations/implications

The study is based on actual historical data and is purely data driven.

Practical implications

The study demonstrates the utility of the analytical methodology but carries not implementation recommendations.

Originality/value

This is the first study to use the statistical methods employed to not only investigate the re-clustering of countries but more importantly the impact of that change on analytical predictions.
Determinants of choice behaviour of Islamic investment products in Malaysia
Authors: Amin Hanudin , Suhartanto Dwi , Ali Muhammad , Ghazali Mohd Fahmi , Hamid Rizal , Abdul Razak Dzuljastri
Published: June 2022

Purpose

In spite of the increasing number of Islamic banks offering Islamic investment products, there is, as yet, little academic research on this topic and the consumer acceptance of the products is not yet understood fully. To help in bridging this gap, this study aims to assess the determinants of choice behaviour of Islamic investment products in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the Theory of Consumption Value (TCV) as a baseline theory, data are obtained from 460 bank customers who intend to invest in the products.

Findings

The results of this study show that emotional value, epistemic value, conditional value, functional value and social value are significantly related to the choice behaviour of Islamic investment products.

Research limitations/implications

Three concerns were found in this study. Firstly, the geographies of this study are narrowed down to bank customers who were resided in specific areas in East Malaysia. Secondly, the authors used the TCV on a particular focus of Islamic banking products. Future studies should address these issues accordingly for improved application and generalisation. Thirdly, some reliability issues were identified in composite reliability values and the related future studies are expected to strengthen the research design to extend the findings at best.

Practical implications

The results are helpful for practitioners to develop new business models of Islamic investment products in Malaysia.

Originality/value

This study provides meaningful insights for theory building of choice behaviour in the context of Islamic investment products, where the TCV comes into play.
How can a leader's humility enhance civility climate and employee voice in a competitive environment?
Authors: Achmadi Achmadi , Hendryadi Hendryadi , Siregar Amelia Oktrivina , Hadmar Ambo Sakka
Published: June 2022

Purpose

This study aimed to examine the relationship between leader humility, civility climate and employee voice and uncover the moderating effect of competitive climate on the relationship between leader humility, civility climate and employee voice.

Design/methodology/approach

Three hundred seventy-nine respondents from various sectors in Indonesia participated in this study. All hypotheses were examined using hierarchical multiple regression analysis using the Hayes' macro PROCESS.

Findings

Leader humility positively and significantly impacts civility climate and employee voice. Competitive climate was confirmed as a moderator in the relationship between leader humility and civility climate and employee voice. The effect of team humility and civility climate on employee voice was strongest in a highly competitive climate.

Practical implications

By encouraging the adoption of leader humility, organizations can develop a civility climate and promote employee voice in the workplace. Leader humility is congruent with leadership practices in Asian countries, which are more strongly influenced by the virtues of certain religions. Leaders should demonstrate humble behaviors to generate a civility climate and employee voice. Authoritarian leadership and the high power distance inherent in Asian countries pose a challenge to the prioritization of humble behavior.

Originality/value

This study adds to the extant literature by revealing that leader humility fosters a civility climate and civility climate has positive consequences on employee voice; it is the first study to examine these relationships. Drawing on the social exchange theory, new insights explain the psychological mechanism underlying the relationship between leader humility, civility climate and employee voice while proposing a competitive climate as the boundary condition.
Sustainable city branding narratives: a critical appraisal of processes and outcomes
Authors: Ripoll Gonzalez Laura , Gale Fred
Published: June 2022

Purpose

This study aims to explore whether adopting a sustainability narrative in city branding and urban development strategies results in more inclusive governance arrangements (process) and a more pluralistic approach to generating sustainability value (outcome), in line with the triple bottom line approach advocated by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The authors argue that a necessary step to enable meaningful sustainable urban development is to rethink the way in which “value” and “value creation” are being interpreted in urban development policies and city branding narratives.

Design/methodology/approach

Mixed-methods case study of New York City’s (NYC) urban development and city branding strategies (2007–2019) combining analysis of academic and grey literature on NYC’s urban development and city branding, value hierarchies in NYC urban development strategic plans and local media reports covering NYC’s development and branding processes.

Findings

Despite claiming commitment to urban sustainability, NYC’s urban development and branding narratives reveal a clear dominance of interpreting “value” primarily as “exchange value”, thus prioritising economic growth.

Research limitations/implications

In the authors’ view, a systemic, systematic and structured approach to generating “sustainability value” is necessary if city branding is to become a governance tool to support sustainable urban development. A “tetravaluation” approach is recommended as a practical, structured framework that can bridge across the ideas of “sustainability value” and “pluralistic governance”, ensuring effective implementation. Further investigation in additional urban contexts is required.

Originality/value

The research contributes to current scholarly debates towards more balanced and pluralistic conceptions of “value” and place branding as a more holistic, participatory and democratic governance model for sustainable urban development.
An empirical study of knowledge environment and suitability of performance measures of a civil organization for a knowledge-based military force
Authors: Singh Mukesh Kumar , Gupta Vikas
Published: June 2022

Purpose

This study aims to empirically analyze the significance of various knowledge management (KM) elements to the environment in a military organization and establish the efficacy of performance indicators of civil organizations for a military organization.

Design/methodology/approach

The research methodology includes the development of a research model based on a comprehensive literature review. A sample of 454 Indian Air Force Veterans was obtained and structural equation modeling (SEM) analysis using statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) analysis of moment structures (AMOS) was conducted to test the hypotheses. The study first employed exploratory factor analysis (EFA) for redefining the theoretical constructs and then confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The study empirically establishes the significance of various KM elements on the knowledge environment that creates, stores, transfers and applies knowledge to achieve military objectives. Findings indicate the complexity of KM in a military setup while applying the performance measures used in the civil organization.

Research limitations/implications

The study expects to expand the scope of the KM literature to the militaries of developing countries and provide a methodology to the leaders and practitioners in the military organizations, and to study the available KM practices, models and tools in the civil world.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the present research is one of the first to generate empirical insights into a knowledge environment in military organizations and test its relation with parameters used in civil organizations. The paper would significantly contribute to the underexplored area of KM in military organizations and infuse a theoretical rigor into the KM literature.
Remote cataloging productivity: an exploratory study in a national library
Authors: Ali Irhamni , Hong Lingzi , Chen Jiangping
Published: June 2022

Purpose

During the COVID-19 pandemic, in order to prevent the spread of disease, the National Library of Indonesia Cataloging Department adopted remote working. There is a need to examine the productivity of remote cataloging as this form of cataloging becomes more prevalent.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted using a mixed methods approach. The authors analyzed data to assess cataloging librarians' productivity based on system logs. Then, the authors interviewed librarians to understand librarians' perspectives concerning productivity and remote cataloging, and also to seek insights into factors that may affect productivity while working remotely.

Findings

The analysis found higher productivity in terms of quantity of cataloging. Librarians' productivity during remote cataloging is not statistically related to individual factors of age, years of experience, or gender. The in-depth interviews found that other factors may hinder the quality and quantity of the remote cataloging, including the working environment, infrastructure, and lack of policies on remote working.

Research limitations/implications

The findings were based on a study conducted in the National Library of Indonesia, which may not apply to libraries with different infrastructures or existing policies in remote cataloging. However, the authors identified numerous factors that could be related to remote cataloging productivity. More work needs to be done to identify these factors that impact productivity by conducting further surveys.

Practical implications

The research provides evidence showing the productivity of cataloging can be higher in remote working mode. The study provides insights for library managers to decide whether to implement remote cataloging and what additional perspectives could be considered for the better implementation of remote cataloging.

Originality/value

The gap in the literature about remote cataloging and productivity has been bridged.
How employees resist ICT-induced organizational change? Insights from “Up in the Air”
Authors: Gūğerçin Utku
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore how change recipients emotionally resist information and communication technology (ICT)-induced organizational change in practice stage-by-stage.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a qualitative case study methodology, this paper integrates Kübler-Ross grief model into a hypothetical change initiative in a critically acclaimed feature film, Up in the Air. The unit of analysis is the main character, Ryan Bingham. As a change recipient, Bingham's emotional reactions are analyzed stage-by-stage.

Findings

The study concludes that emotional resistance to ICT-induced organizational change progresses through the five stages in line with Kübler-Ross model. Even though the focus in Kübler-Ross model is on death and dying, the stages in the model are remarkably similar to the reactions of a change recipient. It is also found that the film is an appropriate instrument to demonstrate the complicated reality and intricate details of resistance, providing abundant content for the analysis of psychological components of resistance.

Practical implications

The exploration of stages of emotional resistance may act as a guideline for leaders to follow throughout a change process. The study is expected to prepare the leaders for the reactions of change recipients so that they can deliver strong leadership throughout periods of change.

Originality/value

The originality of the study lies in the fact that it provides an opportunity to advance the understanding of the abstract concept of resistance, bridges the widely-discussed research-practice gap and analyze emotional resistance stage-by-stage by integrating Kübler-Ross model to a hypothetical change initiative.
Tech and the times: why technology is the double-edged sword that HR teams must navigate
Authors: Latus Jack
Published: June 2022

Purpose

This study aims to explore how changing technology can be harnessed by HR teams to improve the efficiency of the workplace and elevate the employee experience. It analyses whether technology contributes to more issues than it solves, and whether HR teams should consider adopting measures grounded in technology.

Design/methodology/approach

This study stemmed from the recent publishing of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development employee well-being report and months of research into the key issues that HR teams face within the industry, offering a perspective on why they should consider technology as the solution to these.

Findings

By adapting HR strategy, technology can be used to better employee health and well-being, as well as business turnover. The future of HR doesn’t lie in rejecting these new systems and ways of working, but rather by accepting them and implementing the necessary boundaries to preserve and even improve employee health.

Originality/value

The value of this study is to provide HR teams with a comprehensive take on the role that technology currently plays, and will continue to play, as a solution to the issues that plague the industry.
Organic matter availability drives the spatial variation in the community composition and activity of Antarctic marine bacterioplankton
Authors: Piontek Judith , Meeske Christian , Hassenrück Christiane , Engel Anja , Jürgens Klaus
Published: June 2022

Carbon cycling by Antarctic microbial plankton is poorly understood but it plays a major role in CO2 sequestration in the Southern Ocean. We investigated the summer bacterioplankton community in the largely understudied Weddell Sea, applying Illumina amplicon sequencing, measurements of bacterial production and chemical analyses of organic matter. The results revealed that the patchy distribution of productive coastal polynyas and less productive, mostly ice‐covered sites was the major driver of the spatial changes in the taxonomic composition and activity of bacterioplankton. Gradients in organic matter availability induced by phytoplankton blooms were reflected in the concentrations and composition of dissolved carbohydrates and proteins. Bacterial production at bloom stations was, on average, 2.7 times higher than at less productive sites. Abundant bloom‐responsive lineages were predominately affiliated with ubiquitous marine taxa, including Polaribacter, Yoonia‐Loktanella, Sulfitobacter, the SAR92 clade, and Ulvibacter, suggesting a widespread genetic potential for adaptation to sub‐zero seawater temperatures. A co‐occurrence network analysis showed that dominant taxa at stations with low phytoplankton productivity were highly connected, indicating beneficial interactions. Overall, our study demonstrates that heterotrophic bacterial communities along Weddell Sea ice shelves were primarily constrained by the availability of labile organic matter rather than low seawater temperature.
ShoTS Forecasting: Short Time Series Forecasting for Management Research
Authors: Thomakos Dimitrios , Wood Geoffrey , Ioakimidis Marilou , Papagiannakis Giorgos
Published: June 2022

We present a novel method for forecasting with limited information, that is for forecasting short time series. Our method is simple and intuitive; it relates to the most fundamental forecasting benchmark and is straightforward to implement. We present the technical details of the method and explain the nuances of how it works via two illustrative examples, with the use of employment‐related data. We find that our new method outperforms standard forecasting methods and thus offers considerable utility in applied management research. The implications of our findings suggest that forecasting short time series, of which one can find many examples in business and management, is viable and can be of considerable practical help for both research and practice – even when the information available to analysts and decision‐makers is limited.
The effect of packaging and storage time on quality of clustered fresh pistachio
Authors: Tajeddin Behjat , Shakerardekani Ahmad
Published: June 2022

Pistachio is one of the valuable, very nutritious, and high‐energy fruits that is mainly dried and used as a snack due to problems with storage. Therefore, to investigate on how to extend clustered fresh pistachios’ shelf‐life, the effects of various packaging and storage conditions on the pistachios are presented in this study. Thus, clustered in‐hull fresh pistachios were packaged in: (a) Polyethylene film, 45 µm in thickness; (b) polypropylene/polyethylene/polyamide/polyethylene/aluminum foil multilayer film, 90 µm in thickness; (c) both films with alcoholic paper; in air, and under two gas mixtures of 88%N2 + 10%CO2 + 2%O2 and 83%N2 + 15%CO2 + 2%O2. Samples were refrigerated at 5 ± 1°C for 3 months. Quality factors such as moisture content, weight loss, respiration rate, pH, texture, and appearance of the samples were monitored for fresh pistachio kernels and clustered pistachios. Data were analyzed in a completely randomized design using one‐way analysis of variance. The results showed that the shelf‐life of MAP samples drastically increased compared to the control (packages without gaseous and alcoholic paper). A comparison of means among the groups suggests that the multilayer bags of fresh clustered pistachios with a mixture of 83%N2 + 15%CO2 + 2%O2 for a 3‐month storage period is a particularly effective treatment.

Practical Application

It is the first time that fresh pistachio is packaged in clusters (bundle). It seems that the packaging of fresh pistachio clusters, in addition to the benefits mentioned in this paper has a psychological effect on the consumer in terms of the naturalness of this product and has added value due to being considered an organic, luxurious, and delicacy food product. Therefore, in this study, the active MAP method that includes the technique of injecting carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and oxygen into the packaging was used to investigate its effects on the properties and shelf‐life of raw clustered pistachios for fresh consumption.
Avoiding entry into intracellular protein degradation pathways by signal mutations increases protein secretion in Pichia pastoris
Authors: Ito Yoichiro , Ishigami Misa , Hashiba Noriko , Nakamura Yasuyuki , Terai Goro , Hasunuma Tomohisa , Ishii Jun , Kondo Akihiko
Published: June 2022

In our previous study, we serendipitously discovered that protein secretion in the methylotrophic yeast Pichia pastoris is enhanced by a mutation (V50A) in the mating factor alpha (MFα) prepro‐leader signal derived from Saccharomyces cerevisiae. In the present study, we investigated 20 single‐amino‐acid substitutions, including V50A, located within the MFα signal peptide, indicating that V50A and several single mutations alone provided significant increase in production of the secreted proteins. In addition to hydrophobicity index analysis, both an unfolded protein response (UPR) biosensor analysis and a microscopic observation showed a clear difference on the levels of UPR induction and mis‐sorting of secretory protein into vacuoles among the wild‐type and mutated MFα signal peptides. This work demonstrates the importance of avoiding entry of secretory proteins into the intracellular protein degradation pathways, an observation that is expected to contribute to the engineering of strains with increased production of recombinant secreted proteins.
Genetic sampling and an activity index indicate contrasting outcomes of lethal control for an invasive predator
Authors: Le Pla Mark N. , Birnbaum Emma K. , Rees Matthew W. , Hradsky Bronwyn A. , Weeks Andrew R. , Van Rooyen Anthony , Pascoe Jack H.
Published: June 2022

Invasive mammalian predators are implicated in the ongoing decline of a suite of fauna and continue to be a major cause of human–wildlife conflict globally. Lethal control of invasive predators is a common management strategy; however, the use of activity indices to measure management effectiveness is problematic. Non‐invasive genetic sampling may be a viable alternative approach to monitoring as individual animals can be identified, allowing for direct estimation of population density through newly developed spatially explicit capture–recapture techniques. Here we compare inferences derived from a basic activity index (number of scats per survey) and genetic sampling of scats within a before–after control–impact design to evaluate the effectiveness of a lethal control programme targeting red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in south‐eastern Australia. The activity index was highly variable through time and suggested the baiting programme reduced fox activity on the treatment transect relative to changes on the non‐treatment transect. In contrast, genetic sampling and spatially explicit capture–recapture analysis suggested fox density varied little throughout the study, with any changes unable to be attributed to the baiting programme. Additionally, genetic sampling confirmed many individuals persisted through 7 months of baiting. These contrasting results may be partially explained by changes in scat detectability due to seasonal changes in behaviour and the disproportionate contribution of some individuals to scat counts. Our pre‐baiting density estimate of 0.28 foxes km2 (95% CI: 0.22–0.38) was lower than expected given the high productivity, abundant prey species and lack of larger predators in the study region. Our results highlight the need for cautious interpretation of activity indices and demonstrates the value of incorporating recent methodological and statistical advances when evaluating lethal control programmes.
SARS‐CoV‐2 transmission risk to healthcare workers performing tracheostomies: a systematic review
Authors: Subramaniam Ashwin , Lim Zheng Jie , Ponnapa Reddy Mallikarjuna , Mitchell Hayden , Shekar Kiran
Published: June 2022

Background

Tracheostomy is a commonly performed procedure in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) receiving mechanical ventilation (MV). This review aims to investigate the occurrence of SARS‐CoV‐2 transmission from patients to healthcare workers (HCWs) when tracheostomies are performed.

Methods

This systematic review used the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analysis framework. Studies reporting SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in HCWs involved in tracheostomy procedures were included.

Results

Sixty‐nine studies (between 01/11/2019 and 16/01/2022) reporting 3117 tracheostomy events were included, 45.9% (1430/3117) were performed surgically. The mean time from MV initiation to tracheostomy was 16.7 ± 7.9 days. Location of tracheostomy, personal protective equipment used, and anaesthesia technique varied between studies. The mean procedure duration was 14.1 ± 7.5 minutes; was statistically longer for percutaneous tracheostomies compared with surgical tracheostomies (mean duration 17.5 ± 7.0 versus 15.5 ± 5.6 minutes, p = 0.02). Across 5 out of 69 studies that reported 311 tracheostomies, 34 HCWs tested positive for SARS‐CoV‐2 and 23/34 (67.6%) were associated with percutaneous tracheostomies.

Conclusions

In this systematic review we found that SARS‐CoV‐2 transmission to HCWs performing or assisting with a tracheostomy procedure appeared to be low, with all reported transmissions occurring in 2020, prior to vaccinations and more recent strains of SARS‐CoV‐2. Transmissions may be higher with percutaneous tracheostomies. However, an accurate estimation of infection risk was not possible in the absence of the actual number of HCWs exposed to the risk during the procedure and the inability to control for multiple confounders related to variable timing, technique, and infection control practices.
Prone ex vivo lung perfusion protects human lungs from reperfusion injury
Authors: Niikawa Hiromichi , Okamoto Toshihiro , Ayyat Kamal S. , Itoda Yoshifumi , Sakanoue Ichiro , Farver Carol F. , Yun James J. , McCurry Kenneth R.
Published: June 2022

Background

We previously reported beneficial effects of prone positioning during ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP) using porcine lungs. In this study, we sought to determine if prone positioning during EVLP was beneficial in human donor lungs rejected for clinical use.

Methods

Human double lung blocs were randomized to prone EVLP (n = 5) or supine EVLP (n = 5). Following 16 h of cold storage at 4°C and 2 h of cellular EVLP in either the prone or supine position. Lung function, compliance, and weight were evaluated and transplant suitability determined after 2 h of EVLP.

Results

Human lungs treated with prone EVLP had significantly higher partial pressure of oxygen/fraction of inspired oxygen (P/F) ratio [348 (291–402) vs. 199 (191–257) mm Hg, p = 0.022] and significantly lower lung weight [926(864–1078) vs. 1277(1029–1483) g, p = 0.037] after EVLP. 3/5 cases in the prone group were judged suitable for transplant after EVLP, while 0/5 cases in the supine group were suitable. When function of upper vs. lower lobes was evaluated, prone EVLP lungs showed similar P/F ratios and inflammatory cytokine levels in lower vs. upper lobes. In contrast, supine EVLP lungs showed significantly lower P/F ratios [68(59–150) vs. 467(407–515) mm Hg, p = 0.012] and higher tissue tumor necrosis factor alpha levels [100.5 (46.9–108.3) vs. 39.9 (17.0–61.0) ng/ml, p = 0.036] in lower vs. upper lobes.

Conclusions

Prone lung positioning during EVLP may optimize the outcome of EVLP in human donor lungs, possibly by improving lower lobe function.
Review article: diagnostic and therapeutic approach to persistent abdominal pain beyond irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Coffin Benoit , Duboc Henri
Published: June 2022

Background

Persistent abdominal pain (PAP) poses substantial challenges to patients, physicians and healthcare systems. The possible aetiologies of PAP vary widely across organ systems, which leads to extensive and repetitive diagnostic testing that often fails to provide satisfactory answers. As a result, widely recognised functional disorders of the gut–brain interaction, such as irritable bowel syndrome and functional dyspepsia, are often diagnosed in patients with PAP. However, there are a number of less well‐known differential diagnoses that deserve consideration.

Aim

To provide a comprehensive update on causes of PAP that are relatively rare in occurrence.

Methods

A literature review on the diagnosis and management of some less well‐known causes of PAP.

Results

Specific algorithms for the diagnostic work‐up of PAP do not exist. Instead, appropriate investigations tailored to patient medical history and physical examination findings should be made on a case‐by‐case basis. After a definitive diagnosis has been reached, some causes of PAP can be effectively treated using established approaches. Other causes are more complex and may benefit from a multidisciplinary approach involving gastroenterologists, pain specialists, psychologists and physiotherapists. This list is inclusive but not exhaustive of all the rare or less well‐known diseases potentially associated with PAP.

Conclusions

Persistent abdominal pain (PAP) is a challenging condition to diagnose and treat. Many patients undergo repeated diagnostic testing and treatment, including surgery, without achieving symptom relief. Increasing physician awareness of the various causes of PAP, especially of rare diseases that are less well known, may improve patient outcomes.
Home‐based, tunnelled peritoneal drainage system as an alternative treatment option for patients with refractory ascites
Authors: Tergast Tammo L. , Griemsmann Marie , Stockhoff Lena , Heidrich Benjamin , Schirmer Hendrik , Lenzen Henrike , Wedemeyer Heiner , Cornberg Markus , Jaeckel Elmar , Maasoumy Benjamin
Published: June 2022

Background

Onset of refractory ascites is the hallmark of end‐stage liver disease. If liver transplantation (LTx) is not available and contraindications for a transjugular portosystemic shunt (TIPS) are present, repeated paracentesis remains the standard of care (SOC). Home‐based, tunnelled peritoneal catheters (PeCa) have been suggested as an alternative treatment option. However, data on patients with cirrhosis are scarce.

Aim

To evaluate the safety of PeCa in these patients compared to SOC.

Methods

Overall, 223 patients with cirrhosis, a contraindication for TIPS and refractory ascites were included in this retrospective study. PeCa implant was performed in 152 patients, whereas 71 were treated with SOC. Analysed end points included device explant‐free survival, mortality, acute kidney injury (AKI) and hyponatraemia. In the second approach, propensity score matching (PPSM) was performed to adjust for confounding factors.

Results

In patients with PeCa, median device explant‐free survival was 74 days and 52 explants were recorded within the first 90 days. Within 90 days, patients with PeCa had lower mortality than SOC (p = 0.11), and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) incidence did not differ (p = 0.82). Regarding AKI and hyponatraemia, there was a trend towards a higher incidence in the PeCa group (p = 0.13 and p = 0.08), and the risk for rehospitalisation was higher in those with a PeCa (HR: 2.11, p = 0.04). After PPSM, mortality was lower in the PeCa group (HR:0.40; p = 0.03), whereas the incidence of SBP and hyponatraemia was comparable (p = 0.80 and p = 0.28) and AKI was more frequent in those with a PeCa (p = 0.08).

Conclusion

The implant of PeCa allows home‐based therapy of patients with cirrhosis and refractory ascites and a contraindication for TIPS. However, the risk for complications has to be considered and prospective studies are needed.
Phase 1 and preclinical profiling of ESM‐HDAC391, a myeloid‐targeted histone deacetylase inhibitor, shows enhanced pharmacology and monocytopaenia
Authors: Furze Rebecca C. , Molnar Judit , Parr Nigel J. , Ahmad Faiz , Henry Yvette , Howe David , Singh Rajendra , Toal Martin , Bassil Anna K. , Bernard Sharon G. , Davis Robert P. , Gibson Adele , Maller N. Claire , Sharp Catriona , Tough David F. , Prinjha Rab K. , Lewis Huw D.
Published: June 2022

Aims

To improve the tolerability and therapeutic application of histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi), by application of an esterase‐sensitive motif (ESM), to target pharmacological activity directly to mononuclear myeloid cells expressing the processing enzyme carboxylesterase‐1 (CES1).

Methods

This first‐in‐human study comprised single and multiple ascending dose cohorts to determine safety and tolerability. Pharmacodynamic parameters included acetylation, cytokine inhibition and intracellular concentrations of processed acid metabolite in isolated monocytes. Mechanistic work was conducted in vitro and in a CES1/Es1elo mouse strain.

Results

ESM‐HDAC391 showed transient systemic exposure (plasma half‐life of 21–30 min) but selective retention of processed acid for at least 12 hours, resulting in robust targeted mechanistic engagement (increased acetylation in monocytes plus inhibition of ex vivo stimulated cytokine production). ESM‐HDAC391 was well tolerated and clinical toxicities common to non‐targeted HDACi were not observed. ESM‐HDAC391 treatment was accompanied by the novel finding of a dose‐dependent monocyte depletion that was transient and reversible and which plateaued at 0.06 × 109 monocytes/L after repeat dosing with 20 or 40 mg. Characterisation of monocyte depletion in transgenic mice (CES1/Es1elo) suggested that colony stimulating factor 1 receptor loss on circulating cells contributed to ESM‐HDAC‐mediated depletion. Further mechanistic investigations using human monocytes in vitro demonstrated HDACi‐mediated change in myeloid fate through modulation of colony stimulating factor 1 receptor and downstream effects on cell differentiation.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate selective targeting of monocytes in humans using the ESM approach and identify monocytopaenia as a novel outcome of ESM‐HDACi treatment, with implications for potential benefit of these molecules in myeloid‐driven diseases.
T‐helper cell regulation of CD45 phosphatase activity by galectin‐1 and CD43 governs chronic lymphocytic leukaemia proliferation
Authors: Imbery John F. , Heinzelbecker Julia , Jebsen Jenny K. , McGowan Marc , Myklebust Camilla , Bottini Nunzio , Stanford Stephanie M. , Skånland Sigrid S. , Tveita Anders , Tjønnfjord Geir E. , Munthe Ludvig A. , Szodoray Peter , Nakken Britt
Published: June 2022

Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is characterised by malignant mature‐like B cells. Supportive to CLL cell survival is chronic B‐cell receptor (BCR) signalling; however, emerging evidence demonstrates CLL cells proliferate in response to T‐helper (Th) cells in a CD40L‐dependent manner. We showed provision of Th stimulation via CD40L upregulated CD45 phosphatase activity and BCR signalling in non‐malignant B cells. Consequently, we hypothesised Th cell upregulation of CLL cell CD45 activity may be an important regulator of CLL BCR signalling and proliferation. Using patient‐derived CLL cells in a culture system with activated autologous Th cells, results revealed increases in both Th and CLL cell CD45 activity, which correlated with enhanced downstream antigen receptor signalling and proliferation. Concomitantly increased was the surface expression of Galectin‐1, a CD45 ligand, and CD43, a CLL immunophenotypic marker. Galectin‐1/CD43 double expression defined a proliferative CLL cell population with enhanced CD45 activity. Targeting either Galectin‐1 or CD43 using silencing, pharmacology, or monoclonal antibody strategies dampened CD45 activity and CLL cell proliferation. These results highlight a mechanism where activated Th cells drive CLL cell BCR signalling and proliferation via Galectin‐1 and CD43‐mediated regulation of CD45 activity, identifying modulation of CD45 phosphatase activity as a potential therapeutic target in CLL.
Flammability in tropical savannas: Variation among growth forms and seasons in Cerrado
Authors: Zanzarini Vagner , Andersen Alan N. , Fidelis Alessandra
Published: June 2022

The herbaceous layer is the dominant fuel for fire in tropical savannas, the world's most fire‐prone biome. However, little is known about variation in flammability among different growth forms, as well as how flammability varies seasonally. Here, we describe such variation in Brazilian Cerrado, the world's most phytodiverse tropical savanna. We measured three components of flammability (maximum burning temperature, burning rate, and burnt biomass) and morphophysiological traits (dead biomass percentage, moisture content, and specific leaf area) of five species of each of grasses, forbs, and shrubs throughout the wet and dry season. We found that grasses were the most flammable growth form and that their flammability was highest in the middle of the dry season when the percentage of dead biomass was highest (60%), and moisture content was low (25%). Flammability did not vary across seasons for either forbs or shrubs. Dead biomass, moisture content, and specific leaf area were all strongly correlated with flammability. These findings explain the dominant role played by grasses as drivers of flammability in tropical savannas, and they improve our understanding of how savanna flammability varies across space and time depending on the composition of the grass layer and its level of seasonal curing. This enables a better prediction of fire spread and behavior in different savanna types based on grass‐layer composition.
Group creativity in the wild: When building on ideas enhances the generation and selection of creative ideas
Authors: Gillier Thomas , Bayus Barry L.
Published: June 2022

Long‐standing wisdom holds that building on ideas is beneficial for group creativity. We empirically verify this recommended practice. We analyse creativity sessions of nine groups of professionals tasked to synthesize new ideas into one final creative concept. Linkography and quantitative analysis are used for analysing the impact of building on ideas on group creativity. First, the results indicate that building on ideas does not lead to more novel, feasible, or useful ideas. Second, our study shows that building on ideas is beneficial only if the ideators build upon the “right” ideas. Ideators generate more novel ideas only when they build on novel ideas. Moreover, our research reveals a trade‐off: Building on novel ideas leads to more novel but less feasible ideas while building on familiar ideas leads to less novel but more feasible ideas. Finally, we find that stimulus ideas (i.e., ideas that are built upon) are more likely to be selected and integrated into the final concept. Taken together, our results indicate that building on novel ideas enhances the generation and selection processes. Implications for theory and research on creativity in organizations are discussed.
Therapeutic advantage of targeting lysosomal membrane integrity supported by lysophagy in malignant glioma
Authors: Jing Yongwei , Kobayashi Masahiko , Vu Ha Thi , Kasahara Atsuko , Chen Xi , Pham Loc Thi , Kurayoshi Kenta , Tadokoro Yuko , Ueno Masaya , Todo Tomoki , Nakada Mitsutoshi , Hirao Atsushi
Published: June 2022

Lysosomes function as the digestive system of a cell and are involved in macromolecular recycling, vesicle trafficking, metabolic reprogramming, and progrowth signaling. Although quality control of lysosome biogenesis is thought to be a potential target for cancer therapy, practical strategies have not been established. Here, we show that lysosomal membrane integrity supported by lysophagy, a selective autophagy for damaged lysosomes, is a promising therapeutic target for glioblastoma (GBM). In this study, we found that ifenprodil, an FDA‐approved drug with neuromodulatory activities, efficiently inhibited spheroid formation of patient‐derived GBM cells in a combination with autophagy inhibition. Ifenprodil increased intracellular Ca2+ level, resulting in mitochondrial reactive oxygen species–mediated cytotoxicity. The ifenprodil‐induced Ca2+ elevation was due to Ca2+ release from lysosomes, but not endoplasmic reticulum, associated with galectin‐3 punctation as an indicator of lysosomal membrane damage. As the Ca2+ release was enhanced by ATG5 deficiency, autophagy protected against lysosomal membrane damage. By comparative analysis of 765 FDA‐approved compounds, we identified another clinically available drug for central nervous system (CNS) diseases, amoxapine, in addition to ifenprodil. Both compounds promoted degradation of lysosomal membrane proteins, indicating a critical role of lysophagy in quality control of lysosomal membrane integrity. Importantly, a synergistic inhibitory effect of ifenprodil and chloroquine, a clinically available autophagy inhibitor, on spheroid formation was remarkable in GBM cells, but not in nontransformed neural progenitor cells. Finally, chloroquine dramatically enhanced effects of the compounds inducing lysosomal membrane damage in a patient‐derived xenograft model. These data demonstrate a therapeutic advantage of targeting lysosomal membrane integrity in GBM.