bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The functionally plastic rod photoreceptors in the simplex retina of Little skate (Leucoraja erinacea) exhibit a hybrid rod-cone morphology and enhanced synaptic connectivity
Authors: Magaña-Hernández Laura , Wagh Abhiniti S. , Fathi Jessamyn G. , Robles Julio E. , Rubio Beatriz , Yusuf Yaqoub , Rose Erin E. , Brown Daniel E. , Perry Priscilla E. , Hamada Elizabeth , Anastassov Ivan A.
Published: July 2023

The retinas of the vast majority of vertebrate species are termed “duplex” – that is, they contain both rod and cone photoreceptor neurons in different ratios. The retina of Little skate (Leucoraja erinacea) is a rarity among vertebrates because it contains only rod photoreceptors and is thus “simplex”. This unique retina provides us with an important comparative model and an exciting opportunity to study vertebrate rod circuitry within the context of a functional, evolutionarily optimized system, all without the concern about artifacts from genetically modified rod-only mouse models. Perhaps even more importantly, the Leucoraja retina is able to function under both scotopic and photopic ranges of illumination with a single complement of photoreceptors. It is currently unknown what structural characteristics mediate this remarkable functional plasticity. To address this question, we performed serial block-face electron microscopy imaging and examined the structure of rods and their post-synaptic partners. We find that skate rods exhibit ultrastructural characteristics that are either common to rods or cones in other vertebrates (e.g., outer segment architecture, synaptic ribbon number, terminal extensions), or are uniquely in-between those of a typical vertebrate rod or cone (e.g., number of invaginating contacts, clustering of multiple ribbons over a single synaptic invagination). We therefore hypothesize that the unique hybrid rod-cone structure of skate rods and their post-synaptic partners is correlated with the ability of the skate visual system to function across scotopic and photopic ranges of illumination. These findings have the potential to reveal as yet undescribed principles of vertebrate retinal design.

Significance statement

The vast majority of vertebrate retinas are duplex and have mixed rod-cone populations of photoreceptors in varying ratios. The processing of visual information in a duplex retina tends to be separated between rod and cone systems, which mediate function under scotopic and photopic lighting conditions, respectively. However, the cartilaginous fish Little skate (Leucoraja erinacea) has a simplex retina, comprised solely of rod photoreceptors. Skate rods are also unusual because they have the ability to retain function over a full range of lighting conditions. We have little knowledge about the ultrastructural anatomy of the skate retina, and we hypothesize that this functional plasticity can be traced back to morphological adaptations at the level of individual photoreceptors and the downstream retinal circuitry, thus illuminating new pathways for the processing of visual information among vertebrates.
Personal transcriptome variation is poorly explained by current genomic deep learning models
Authors: Huang Connie , Shuai Richard , Baokar Parth , Chung Ryan , Rastogi Ruchir , Kathail Pooja , Ioannidis Nilah
Published: July 2023

Genomic deep learning models can predict genome-wide epigenetic features and gene expression levels directly from DNA sequence. While current models perform well at predicting gene expression levels across genes in different cell types from the reference genome, their ability to explain expression variation between individuals due to cis-regulatory genetic variants remains largely unexplored. Here we evaluate four state-of-the-art models on paired personal genome and transcriptome data and find limited performance when explaining variation in expression across individuals.
Predictable and divergent change in the multivariate P-matrix during parallel adaptation
Authors: Lisle Stephen De , Bolnick Daniel I. , Stuart Yoel E.
Published: July 2023

Abstract

Adaptation to replicated environmental conditions can be remarkably predictable, suggesting parallel evolution may be a common feature of adaptive radiation. An open question, however, is how phenotypic variation itself evolves during repeated adaptation. Here, we use a dataset of morphological measurements from 35 populations of threespine stickleback, consisting of 16 parapatric lake- stream pairs and three marine populations, to understand how phenotypic variation has evolved during transitions from marine to freshwater environments, and during subsequent diversification across the lake-stream boundary. We find statistical support for divergent phenotypic covariance (P) across populations, with most diversification ofPoccurring across freshwater populations. Despite a close correspondence between within-population phenotypic variation and among population divergence, we find that variation inPis unrelated to total variation in population means across the set of populations. Within lake-stream pairs, however, we find that theoretical predictions for microevolutionary change can explain over 30% of the total divergence inPmatrices across the habitat boundary. Together, our results indicate that variance evolution occurs primarily in dimensions of trait space with low phenotypic integration, driven by divergence into disparate lake and stream environments, illustrating how conserved and divergent features of multivariate variation can underlie adaptive radiation.
Toxicogenomic analysis of the carcinogenic potential of plastic additives
Authors: Vincoff Sophia , Schleupner Beatrice , Santos Jasmine , Morrison Margaret , Zhang Newland , Dunphy-Daly Meagan M. , Eward William C. , Armstrong Andrew J. , Diana Zoie , Somarelli Jason A.
Published: July 2023

Plastics are the most prevalent human-made substance in the world and are ubiquitous throughout all ecosystems. Microscopic plastic particles are routinely ingested and inhaled by humans and other organisms. Despite the frequency of plastic exposures, little is known about their health consequences. Of particular concern are plastic additives -chemical compounds that are mixed into plastics to improve functionality or are unintentionally acquired during plastic production and use. Additives are loosely bound to the plastic polymer and may be released during plastic exposures. These compounds may pose health concerns, such as cancer, but little is known about the potential impact of these chemicals on health. To better understand the health effects of plastic additives, we performed an integrated toxicogenomic analysis on 2,712 additives, focusing on cancer as a well-studied toxicological endpoint. Screening these substances across three chemical databases revealed two key observations: 1) over 150 plastic additives have known carcinogenicity and 2) the majority (∼90%) of plastic additives lack data on carcinogenic endpoints. Analyses of additive usage patterns pinpointed specific polymers, functions, and products in which carcinogenic additives reside. Based on published chemical-gene interactions, both carcinogenic additives and additives with unknown carcinogenicity impacted similar biological pathways. The predominant pathways involved DNA damage, apoptosis, immune response, viral diseases, and cancer. This study underscores the urgent need for systematic and comprehensive carcinogenicity assessment of plastic additives and regulatory responses to mitigate the potential health risks of plastic exposure.
The spillover effects of positive and negative buzz on brand attitudes
Authors: Colicev Anatoli , de Bruyn Arnaud
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the effects of buzz about the focal brand on competing brands’ attitudes.

Design/methodology/approach

Brand-related buzz can be defined as “a general sense of [positive or negative] excitement about or interest in [a brand], as reflected in or generated by word of mouth” (Oxford dictionary). The authors investigate the spillover effects of such positive and negative buzz on brand attitudes of 648 brands in 43 categories over five years.

Findings

The authors find that spillover effects are widespread across product categories and affect competing brands through (negative) halo effect and (unfavorable) preference substitution. The authors do not find evidence of positive spillover effects for non-focal brands.

Research limitations/implications

The authors provide generalizable evidence that positive and negative buzz spills over competing brands’ attitudes for hundreds of brands across the largest sectors of the US economy. Interestingly, positive and negative buzz have asymmetric effects on consumer attitudes. These effects vary by consumer attitude metric and are moderated by brand news intensity, strength and similarity.

Practical implications

First, marketing managers should monitor the buzz of competing brands. Second, if managers are concerned with impressions, they should intervene when there is a negative buzz about competitors (halo effect). Third, managers should stimulate positive buzz to negatively affect their competitors’ purchases. Fourth, managing a smaller brand has advantages regarding impressions and recommendations, while news intensity can shield from negative spillover effects for impressions. Finally, brand similarity amplifies the spillover effects across the board.

Originality/value

This paper provides evidence that spillover effects are pervasive and urges marketing managers and academics to incorporate competing buzz in their frameworks and strategies.
A critical review of auditing at the time of blockchain technology – a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Hakami Tahani , Sabri Omar , Al-Shargabi Bassam , Rahmat Mohd Mohid , Nashat Attia Osama
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the present condition of blockchain technology (BT) applications in auditing by analyzing journal publications on the topic to acquire a better understanding of the field.

Design/methodology/approach

This study makes use of the Bibliometric Analysis method and gathered 725 papers from the Web of Science and Scopus databases in the management and accounting, business, financial, economic and social science, as well as decision sciences fields from 2017 to 2021 using the R-Package Bibliometrix Analysis “biblioshiny”.

Findings

The findings revealed that blockchain research in terms of auditing has already increased and started to spark a quick rise in popularity, but is still in its initial phases with important quality though less in quantity. Moreover, the Journal of Emerging Technologies in Accounting is the most prolific journal with 2019 as the highest publication year, with the United States and China as the most cited countries in this field. Furthermore, in this field, there are much research topics involving blockchain, audit and smart contracts; and there is less involving data analytics, governance, hyperledger, distributed ledger and financial reporting. Additionally, Sheldon (2019) and Smith and Castonguay (2020) are the most productive authors in the field in terms of the H-index.

Research limitations/implications

This study has certain limitations such as the fact that it only looked at 105 papers in the domains of finance, business, economics, accounting, management as well as multidisciplinary science. Moreover, the research’s data and dates have an impact on the results dependability. As this is an original topic, fresh studies are anticipated to remain to shine a spotlight on and suggest answers to blockchain’s implications on auditing. Additionally, the period of time was limited to only the last five years, from 2017 to 2021. As a result, extensive study into the topic is required since there is currently a research deficit in the blockchain field in the setting of auditing. So, new research is required to offer new frameworks and understandings for describing the blockchain function in auditing, including processes, techniques, security, as well as timeliness. Investigations in unique circumstances and research employing innovative research methodologies for discovering the new issue would be valuable in acquiring a higher grasp of the complexities faced.

Originality/value

This research contributed to the field by assessing the present state of the art of research on the usage and use of BT in finding research gaps, the audit profession and, most importantly, recommending a future direction for researchers in the subject.
Embracing ICT in academia: adopting and adapting to the new normal pedagogy
Authors: Adtani Rachana , Neelam Netra , Raut Rajesh , Deshpande Amruta , Mittal Amit
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The use of information and communication technology (ICT) has been improving in education and constantly evolving; however, the recent pandemic has catapulted it. Digital transformation of academia through online teaching demands new pedagogies to be adopted by faculty members. Academia embraces technological advancements in teaching-learning to ensure growth, development and sustainability. This paper aims to gain insights regarding the current status of literature, critical contributing authors, countries, areas, overall trends and future direction for research.

Design/methodology/approach

The bibliometric data was collected from two of the most widely referred databases: Scopus and Web of Science(WoS); tools like vosViewer and map builder were used for analysis. Short empirical evidence is added to the study to understand faculty members' current adoption of new pedagogical approaches in some prominent higher educational institutions.

Findings

Because of the corona pandemic, there is substantial digital transformation in the teaching-learning process. Therefore, it is essential to comprehend what faculty members can adopt critical pedagogies. Understanding the importance of pedagogy in learning outcomes, this study has attempted to synthesize available literature on ICT, pedagogy and higher education in the 21st century.

Originality/value

The study outlined flipped and blended learning as two teaching methods developed due to ICT integration in the classroom. Bibliometric insights from the study build the groundwork for academic advancement to remote online education. This is an attempt to corroborate such insights.
A multi-parameter method for static behaviour of headed stud with ductile fracture in push-off tests
Authors: Ding Yixing , Jia Yanmin , Li Jiangyue , Li Huiming , Zhang Xiaobo
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of stud height, stud diameter, ultimate stress of stud and concrete strength on the static behaviour of studs in push-off tests based on the ductile fracture theory.

Design/methodology/approach

Push-off tests of headed stud shear connectors with different heights and diameters used in concrete of various strengths were designed and implemented. A finite element model was established based on a ductile fracture criterion of ML15 cold-heading steel with stress triaxiality and Lode angle parameter. Based on the results of the parametric study of the numerical model, equations were proposed to evaluate the effect of stud height hs, stud area As, concrete strength fc and stud ultimate strength fsu used in concrete of various strengths on the static behaviour of studs.

Findings

The typical failure phenomenon observed among the test specimens was the fracture of the shank of studs. The microscopic images of the stud fracture surfaces and the verified finite element model indicate that the studs were fractured as a result of the combined action of tension and shear.

Originality/value

A new method for calculating ultimate load Pu and ultimate slip Su is proposed in this paper. In the method, Pu is linearly related to fsu0.2143, As0.7790, hs0.0974, fc0.2065. Su is linearly related to fsu1.078, As0.4681, hs(−0.3135), fc(−0.3480).
Fake news as systematically distorted communication: an LIS intervention
Authors: Buschman John
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The broader analytical framing of systematically distorted communication (SDC) helps extract value out of the enormous amount of scholarship on fake news.

Design/methodology/approach

The massive literature on fake news has been the subject of handbook overviews, systematic literature reviews, summaries, taxonomies, citation studies and so on. Deploying these tools, the approaches that the literature takes can be characterized, Habermas' concept of systematically distorted communication (SDC) will then be presented in its context, reviewed and put to work to frame fake news research to tell us new things that individual pieces of specific analysis and research do not. Conclusions will be offered from this analysis.

Findings

Fake news research has become repetitive, revolving around themes such as the fate of journalism, the role of technology, remediating its effects and deep dives into definitional components (disinformation, misinformation, lies and so on). A broader framing of systematically distorted communication allows us to arrive at some conclusions about contemporary fake news: that it is a power strategy with a particular right-wing slant and it creates a sociology – that is, its own interpretive environment – hostile to democratic functioning. It answers the question: what is fake news for?

Originality/value

A perspective on fake news research is much needed and Habermas' concept is a useful framing mechanism for the large corpus of research. Systematically distorted communication asks – and answers – different questions of the research. Meanwhile, SDC itself is modified by its application to fake news research and contemporary conditions.
Increasing plant species richness by seeding has marginal effects on ecosystem functioning in agricultural grasslands
Authors: Freitag Martin , Hölzel Norbert , Neuenkamp Lena , van der Plas Fons , Manning Peter , Abrahão Anna , Bergmann Joana , Boeddinghaus Runa , Bolliger Ralph , Hamer Ute , Kandeler Ellen , Kleinebecker Till , Knorr Klaus‐Holger , Marhan Sven , Neyret Margot , Prati Daniel , Le Provost Gaëtane , Saiz Hugo , van Kleunen Mark , Schäfer Deborah , Klaus Valentin H.
Published: July 2023

Experimental evidence shows that grassland plant diversity enhances ecosystem functioning. Yet, the transfer of results from controlled biodiversity experiments to naturally assembled ‘real world’ ecosystems remains challenging due to environmental variation among sites, confounding biodiversity ecosystem functioning relations in observational studies. To bridge the gap between classical biodiversity‐ecosystem functioning experiments and observational studies of naturally assembled and managed ecosystems, we created regionally replicated, within‐site gradients of species richness by seeding across agricultural grasslands differing in land‐use intensity (LUI) and abiotic site conditions.

Within each of 73 grassland sites, we established a full‐factorial experiment with high‐diversity seeding and topsoil disturbance and measured 12 ecosystem functions related to productivity, and carbon and nutrient cycling after 4 years. We then analysed the effects of plant diversity (seeded richness as well as realized richness), functional community composition, land use and abiotic conditions on the ecosystem functions within (local scale) as well as among grassland sites (landscape scale).

Despite the successful creation of a within‐site gradient in plant diversity (average increase in species richness in seeding treatments by 10%–35%), we found that only one to two of the 12 ecosystem functions responded to realized species richness, resulting in more closed nitrogen cycles in more diverse plant communities. Similar results were found when analysing the effect of the seeding treatment instead of realized species richness. Among sites, ecosystem functioning was mostly driven by environmental conditions and LUI. Also here, the only functions related to plant species richness were those associated with a more closed nitrogen cycle under increased diversity.

The minor effects of species enrichment we found suggest that the functionally‐relevant niche space is largely saturated in naturally assembled grasslands, and that competitive, high‐functioning species are already present.

Synthesis: While nature conservation and cultural ecosystem services can certainly benefit from plant species enrichment, our study indicates that restoration of plant diversity in naturally assembled communities may deliver only relatively weak increases in ecosystem functioning, such as a more closed nitrogen cycle, within the extensively to moderate intensively managed agricultural grasslands of our study.
Will climate change jeopardize the Vietnamese target of maintaining farmland for food security? A fractional multinomial logit analysis of land use choice
Authors: Nguyen Chau Trinh , Scrimgeour Frank
Published: July 2023

The Vietnamese government is concerned with long‐term food security due to the rising demand for food and potential climate‐induced conversion of areas under food production. This article is among the first studies which examine the climate‐induced uptake of crop substitution and its likely impact on the national target of maintaining food areas to sustain food security. In contrast to most crop choice analyses which obtain cross‐household evidence using a Multinomial Logit model, we model within household competition across alternative uses of land using a Fractional Multinomial Logit model. Our empirical findings suggest that Vietnamese farmers have adapted to the changing climate by selecting different crops. Increases in winter and summer temperatures mean that farmers are more likely to substitute cereals for others. Farmers choose annual industrial crops in locations with warmer springs and autumns. The choice of perennial industrial crops is sensitive to spring and autumn temperatures. Precipitation has small impacts on land use choice. The projected climate changes are not likely to jeopardize the national target of maintaining 40 percent of farmland under food production. However, we expect projected climate changes to result in large shifts from cereals to annual industrial crops in the main rice bowl of Vietnam.
Western Australian State Trauma Registry analysis of incidence and injury patterns associated with e‐Scooter injuries: 5‐year retrospective case series
Authors: Raubenheimer Kyle , Dodd James , Jarmin Martin J. , Sarvepalli Rohit , Fatovich Daniel M. , Weber Dieter G.
Published: July 2023

Background

Electric scooters (e‐Scooters) are a form of motorized vehicle that offers cheap, efficient and environmentally friendly transportation. Increased e‐Scooter utilization has been accompanied by increases in e‐Scooter related injuries in multiple countries. This project describes the incidence, injury pattern, injury severity and patient factors associated with e‐Scooter use from the Western Australian State Trauma Registry.

Methods

Retrospective cohort of all trauma patients captured by the Western Australian State Trauma Registry between 01 July 2017 and 30 June 2022 were analysed. Patient demographics, helmet use, reported drug use, and injury details (including principal and additional diagnoses, ISS) were collected.

Results

Eighty‐one patients sustained e‐Scooter related injuries between 2017 and 2022. Fifty‐four (66%) of hospital admissions were recorded in 2021–2022, an annual percent change of 385.7% from the previous year. Most patients were male (80%). Median age was 40 years (IQR: 32–50). Helmet use was reported in 43% of patients. Helmet use was associated with a significantly lower odds of head injury (OR = 4.42, CI: 1.38–14.21; P = 0.01). Thirty‐five percent of patients were intoxicated with either alcohol or drugs. Forty‐four (54%) patients required surgery.

Conclusion

E‐Scooter crashes are a new mechanism of injury affecting patients captured by the Western Australian State Trauma Registry. Helmet use correlated with a reduced risk of head injury.
Prioritizing the reassessment of data‐deficient species on the IUCN Red List
Authors: Cazalis Victor , Santini Luca , Lucas Pablo M. , González‐Suárez Manuela , Hoffmann Michael , Benítez‐López Ana , Pacifici Michela , Schipper Aafke M. , Böhm Monika , Zizka Alexander , Clausnitzer Viola , Meyer Carsten , Jung Martin , Butchart Stuart H. M. , Cardoso Pedro , Mancini Giordano , Akçakaya H. Reşit , Young Bruce E. , Patoine Guillaume , Di Marco Moreno
Published: July 2023

Despite being central to the implementation of conservation policies, the usefulness of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species is hampered by the 14% of species classified as data‐deficient (DD) because information to evaluate these species’ extinction risk was lacking when they were last assessed or because assessors did not appropriately account for uncertainty. Robust methods are needed to identify which DD species are more likely to be reclassified in one of the data‐sufficient IUCN Red List categories. We devised a reproducible method to help red‐list assessors prioritize reassessment of DD species and tested it with 6887 DD species of mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fishes, and Odonata (dragonflies and damselflies). For each DD species in these groups, we calculated its probability of being classified in a data‐sufficient category if reassessed today from covariates measuring available knowledge (e.g., number of occurrence records or published articles available), knowledge proxies (e.g., remoteness of the range), and species characteristics (e.g., nocturnality); calculated change in such probability since last assessment from the increase in available knowledge (e.g., new occurrence records); and determined whether the species might qualify as threatened based on recent rate of habitat loss determined from global land‐cover maps. We identified 1907 species with a probability of being reassessed in a data‐sufficient category of >0.5; 624 species for which this probability increased by >0.25 since last assessment; and 77 species that could be reassessed as near threatened or threatened based on habitat loss. Combining these 3 elements, our results provided a list of species likely to be data‐sufficient such that the comprehensiveness and representativeness of the IUCN Red List can be improved.
Introducing Meta‐analysis in the Evaluation of Computational Models of Infant Language Development
Authors: Cruz Blandón María Andrea , Cristia Alejandrina , Räsänen Okko
Published: July 2023

Computational models of child language development can help us understand the cognitive underpinnings of the language learning process, which occurs along several linguistic levels at once (e.g., prosodic and phonological). However, in light of the replication crisis, modelers face the challenge of selecting representative and consolidated infant data. Thus, it is desirable to have evaluation methodologies that could account for robust empirical reference data, across multiple infant capabilities. Moreover, there is a need for practices that can compare developmental trajectories of infants to those of models as a function of language experience and development. The present study aims to take concrete steps to address these needs by introducing the concept of comparing models with large‐scale cumulative empirical data from infants, as quantified by meta‐analyses conducted across a large number of individual behavioral studies. We formalize the connection between measurable model and human behavior, and then present a conceptual framework for meta‐analytic evaluation of computational models. We exemplify the meta‐analytic model evaluation approach with two modeling experiments on infant‐directed speech preference and native/non‐native vowel discrimination.
Rapid decolorisation of dyeing wastewater by FeIII(2,2′:6′,2″‐terpyridine)activated peroxymonosulphate
Authors: Fan Jianing , Wu Shouying , Wang Zixian , Zheng Minglong , Zhang Miaomiao , Zhang Linping , Zhong Yi , Sui Xiaofeng , Xu Hong , Mao Zhiping
Published: July 2023

The discharge of coloured textile printing and dyeing wastewater causes environmental pollution. Disposing of wastewater efficiently, simply and with low consumption, is a problem that must be addressed. Herein, a catalytic method for rapid decolorisation of organic dyes was devised employing a terpyridine iron complex to activate oxidised permonosulphate. CI Acid Red 1 was used as the simulated pollutant, the influences of operating parameters on the fading effects of wastewater were explored. According to the results, the produced catalytic system exhibits a universal catalytic effect. Even when the dye concentration reaches 76.4 mg/L, the dyeing wastewater may be effectively decolorised. In addition, when anions (HCO3−, SO42−, Cl−) were present in the solution, the degradation effect of CI Acid Red 1 was still effective. Interestingly, active species such as sulphate radicals and singlet oxygen were detected in the catalytic degradation system by radical capture experiments. The removal rate of total organic carbon can achieve a percentage of 26.22% in 2 hours. This research provides a unique, enzyme‐like catalytic system for the rapid breakdown of dye contaminants.
The use of simulation in liver transplantation anesthesiology fellowship training: A survey of fellowship program directors in the United States
Authors: Maffucci Patrick , Smith Natalie K. , Zerillo Jeron , Baron Elvera , Katz Daniel , Burnett Garrett W.
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Liver transplantation surgeries are challenging cases for anesthesiologists. While intra‐operative teaching is paramount, simulation has emerged as an educational tool to augment clinical training. A variety of simulation modalities have been described in the literature, but no study has aimed to assess the use of simulation in liver transplantation fellowship training.

Methods

A 20‐question survey detailing the use of simulation, including simulation modalities used and barriers to simulation use, was developed and distributed to 22 program directors for liver transplantation anesthesiology fellowships. An exploratory analysis was performed on multiple‐choice and free‐text responses.

Results

Thirteen program directors completed the survey and were included in our analysis. Most programs (61.5%) did not report the use of simulation for liver transplantation fellow training. Of the programs that did use simulation, four required it as a mandatory component of their curriculum. Task trainers and screen‐based simulators were more commonly used by these programs. Faculty availability and interest, as well as a lack of an established curriculum, were cited as major limitations to simulation use.

Conclusions

Simulation is an important component of anesthesiology trainee education, as evidenced by the requirement for simulation during residency by the American Council for Graduate Medical Education. Our findings suggest that simulation is an underutilized educational tool that we believe could greatly augment the training of liver transplantation anesthesiology fellows by providing exposure to a wide range of clinical challenges.
The effects of empagliflozin on measured glomerular filtration rate and estimated extracellular and plasma volumes in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Jürgens Mikkel , Schou Morten , Hasbak Philip , Kjær Andreas , Wolsk Emil , Zerahn Bo , Brandt‐Jacobsen Niels H. , Gæde Peter , Rossing Peter , Faber Jens , Inzucchi Silvio E. , Gustafsson Finn , Kistorp Caroline
Published: July 2023

Aims

To investigate the effects of empagliflozin on measured glomerular filtration rate (mGFR), estimated plasma volume (PV) and estimated extracellular volume (ECV) in a cohort of patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and high risk of cardiovascular events.

Materials and Methods

In this prespecified substudy of the randomized, placebo‐controlled SIMPLE trial, patients with T2D at high risk of cardiovascular events were allocated to either empagliflozin 25 mg or placebo once daily for 13 weeks. The prespecified outcome was between‐group change in mGFR, measured by the 51Cr‐EDTA method after 13 weeks; changes in estimated PV and estimated ECV were included.

Results

From April 4, 2017 to May 11, 2020, 91 participants were randomized. Of these, 45 patients from the empagliflozin group and 45 patients from the placebo group were included in the intention‐to‐treat analysis. Treatment with empagliflozin reduced mGFR by −7.9 mL/min (95% confidence interval [CI] −11.1 to −4.7; P < 0.001), estimated ECV by −192.5 mL (95% CI −318.0 to −66.9; P = 0.003) and estimated PV by −128.9 mL (95% CI −218.0 to 39.8; P = 0.005) at Week 13.

Conclusions

Treatment with empagliflozin for 13 weeks reduced mGFR, estimated ECV and estimated PV in patients with T2D and high risk of cardiovascular events.
Advanced echocardiography techniques (AETs) to assess left atrial structure and function in individuals with resistant hypertension
Authors: Souza Jonathan Batista , Sousa Márcio Gonçalves , Laurinavicius Antonio Gabriele , Hygídio Daniel de Andrade , Vilela Andrea de Andrade , Colombo Fernanda Consolim , Assef Jorge Eduardo
Published: July 2023

Aims

Resistant hypertension (RH) is a challenging phenotype within the hypertension (HTN) spectrum, requiring careful assessment and follow‐up. Evaluation of left atrial function may be clinically informative, but is usually neglected. Advanced Echocardiography Techniques (AETs), such as Strain Analysis and three‐dimensional echocardiography (3D ECHO) may be useful complementary tools to assess atrial function in patients with RH.

Methods and Results

Ninety‐six eligible adult patients were categorized into three groups: resistant hypertensive (RH), controlled hypertensive (CH), and normotensive (N), and underwent AETs to identify morphofunctional changes in the left atrium (LA) across different HTN phenotypes. The LA reservoir strain was significantly lower among RH than in N and CH patients (p < .001). Accordingly, LA conduit strain showed a gradient through the groups: higher among N, followed by CH and RH patients (p = .015). LA contraction strain was higher among CH than in N and RH patients (p = .02). Maximum indexed, pre‐A, and minimum atrial volumes obtained by 3D ECHO showed differences between N and the others (p < .001), but not between CH and RH. N patients showed a higher fraction of passive emptying of the LA than the others (p = .02), with no difference between CH and RH. Total emptying of the LA only differed between N and RH patients, while active emptying of the LA showed no difference between the groups (p = .82).

Conclusion

The left atrium may present early functional changes in response to HTN, which are detectable by AETs. AETs, especially S‐LA, allowed to identify markers of atrial myocardial damage in both RH and CH patients.
External stenting for saphenous vein grafts in coronary artery bypass grafting: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Chen Huiru , Wang Zilan , Si Ke , Wu Xiaoxiao , Ni Hanyu , Tang Yanbing , Liu Wei , Wang Zhong
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Autologous saphenous vein grafts (SVGs) are the most commonly used bypass conduits in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) with multivessel coronary artery disease. Although external support devices for SVGs have shown promising outcomes, the overall efficacy and safety remains controversial. We aimed to evaluate external stenting for SVGs in CABG versus non‐stented SVGs.

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and clinicaltrails.gov were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate external‐stented SVGs versus non‐stented SVGs in CABG up to 31 August 2022. The risk ratio and mean difference with 95% confidence interval were analysed. The primary efficacy outcomes included intimal hyperplasia area and thickness. The secondary efficacy outcomes were graft failure (≥50% stenosis) and lumen diameter uniformity.

Results

We pooled 438 patients from three RCTs. The external stented SVGs group showed significant reductions in intimal hyperplasia area (MD: −0.78, p < 0.001, I2 = 0%) and thickness (MD: −0.06, p < 0.001, I2 = 0%) compared to the non‐stented SVGs group. Meanwhile, external support devices improved lumen uniformity with Fitzgibbon I classification (risk ratio (RR):1.1595, p = 0.05, I2 = 0%). SVG failure rates were not increased in the external stented SVGs group during the short follow‐up period (RR: 1.14, p = 0.38, I2 = 0%). Furthermore, the incidences of mortality and major cardiac and cerebrovascular events were consistent with previous reports.

Conclusions

External support devices for SVGs significantly reduced the intimal hyperplasia area and thickness, and improved the lumen uniformity, assessed with the Fitzgibbon I classification. Meanwhile, they did not increase the overall SVG failure rate.
Reliability prediction of high‐cycle fatigue behavior of parts treated by laser shock peening
Authors: Frija Mounir , Ayeb Manel , Seddik Raoudha , Fathallah Raouf
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this paper is to develop a global approach to predict the reliability of the high‐cycle fatigue behavior of mechanical components treated by laser shock peening (LSP). Most works that exist in the literature have introduced experimental and numerical studies. The originality of our investigation is to predict and validate the reliability of high‐cycle fatigue of the workpieces treated by LSP treatment by using the modified Crossland criterion. Based on previous works made by our team that shows the finite element simulation of the LSP process, this approach will be based on the integration of probabilistic fatigue criteria adapted to the superficially treated parts using ABAQUS software. After the validation of this approach, it will allow design engineers to optimize the operating conditions of the LSP process.
Comparative experimental evolution reveals species‐specific idiosyncrasies in marine phytoplankton adaptation to warming
Authors: Barton Samuel , Padfield Daniel , Masterson Abigail , Buckling Angus , Smirnoff Nicholas , Yvon‐Durocher Gabriel
Published: July 2023

A number of experimental studies have demonstrated that phytoplankton can display rapid thermal adaptation in response to warmed environments. While these studies provide insight into the evolutionary responses of single species, they tend to employ different experimental techniques. Consequently, our ability to compare the potential for thermal adaptation across different, ecologically relevant, species remains limited. Here, we address this limitation by conducting simultaneous long‐term warming experiments with the same experimental design on clonal isolates of three phylogenetically diverse species of marine phytoplankton; the cyanobacterium Synechococcus sp., the prasinophyte Ostreococcus tauri and the diatom Phaeodoactylum tricornutum. Over the same experimental time period, we observed differing levels of thermal adaptation in response to stressful supra‐optimal temperatures. Synechococcus sp. displayed the greatest improvement in fitness (i.e., growth rate) and thermal tolerance (i.e., temperature limits of growth). Ostreococcus tauri was able to improve fitness and thermal tolerance, but to a lesser extent. Finally, Phaeodoactylum tricornutum showed no signs of adaptation. These findings could help us understand how the structure of phytoplankton communities may change in response to warming, and possible biogeochemical implications, as some species show relatively more rapid adaptive shifts in their thermal tolerance.
At the intersection of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics and business management in Canadian higher education: An intentional equity, diversity, and inclusion framework
Authors: Ruel Stefanie , Tajmel Tanja
Published: July 2023

In this study, the authors address the persistent discrimination cis women face in the Canadian science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) higher education context. Pulling on the notion of interrelationships that cross educational faculty boundaries and on intersectionality scholarship to unsettle the structural and disciplinary domains of power, the authors ask, “How can business education and STEM education work together with respect to social considerations, such as gender/race/ethnicity/etc., and social equity and inclusivity, within the Canadian higher education system?” This study aims to build on these interrelationships among diverse, complex individuals who participated in a graduate‐level STEM and business management summer institute to provide an evidence‐based and intentional equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) framework for STEM higher education contexts. Using a mixed‐methods approach, which saw data collection via a survey instrument and semi‐structured interviews, the subsequent quantitative analysis points to expanding interrelationships to broader areas beyond STEM and business management programs. The close reading of the collected qualitative data, via antenarrative spirals, elevates the participants' complexities beyond focusing “just” on their intersecting identities to looking at their perceptions of STEM fields, the order that ensues and the potential for the undoing of that order. The findings, results, and analyses of these collected data led to an intentional EDI framework, the main contribution of this study, constructed into three main pillars represented by the figure of a tree: the foundational elements (roots) built on individuals' complexities and experiences of Othering, the interrelationships (trunk) possible across various educational and professional dimensions, and a call to structural change initiatives (branches) with the possibility for growth in other areas. This work then contributes to not only filling a significant literature gap and building awareness regarding EDI concerns in STEM contexts via active interrelationship‐building activities but also to unsettling the structural and disciplinary domains of power by embracing a holistic strategy to address systemic discriminatory practices in the Canadian STEM higher education context.
Family caregiver roles and challenges in assisting patients with cancer treatment decision‐making: Analysis of data from a national survey
Authors: Dionne‐Odom James N. , Kent Erin E. , Rocque Gabrielle B. , Azuero Andres , Harrell Erin R. , Gazaway Shena , Reed Rhiannon D. , Bratches Reed W. , Bechthold Avery C. , Lee Kyungmi , Puga Frank , Miller‐Sonet Ellen , Ornstein Katherine A.
Published: July 2023

Background

We aimed to describe the roles and challenges of family caregivers involved in patients' cancer treatment decision‐making.

Methods

Family caregiver‐reported data were analyzed from a national survey conducted in the United States by CancerCare® (2/2021–7/2021). Four select‐all‐that‐apply caregiver roles were explored: (1) observer (patient as primary decision‐maker); (2) primary decision‐maker; (3) shared decision‐maker with patient and (4) decision delegated to healthcare team. Roles were compared across five treatment decisions: where to get treatment, the treatment plan, second opinions, beginning treatment and stopping treatment. Ten challenges faced by caregivers (e.g., information, cost, treatment understanding) were then examined. χ2 and regression analyses were used to assess associations between roles, decision areas, challenges and caregiver sociodemographics.

Results

Of 2703 caregiver respondents, 87.6% reported involvement in patient decisions about cancer treatment, including 1661 who responded to a subsection further detailing their roles and challenges with specific treatment decisions. Amongst these 1661 caregivers, 22.2% reported an observing role, 21.3% a primary decision‐making role, 53.9% a shared decision‐making role and 18.1% a role delegating decisions to the healthcare team. Most caregivers (60.4%) faced ≥1 challenge, the most frequent being not knowing how treatments would affect the patient's physical condition (24.8%) and quality of life (23.2%). In multivariable models, being Hispanic/Latino/a was the strongest predictor of facing at least one challenge (b = −0.581, Wald = 10.69, p < .01).

Conclusions

Most caregivers were involved in patients' cancer treatment decisions. The major challenge was not understanding how treatments would impact patients' physical health and quality of life. Challenges may be more commonly faced by Hispanic/Latino/a caregivers.

Patient or Public Contribution

The CancerCare® survey was developed in partnership with caregiving services and research experts to describe the role of cancer family caregivers in patient decision‐making and assess their needs for support. All survey items were reviewed by a CancerCare advisory board that included five professional patient advocates and piloted by a CancerCare social worker and other staff who provide counselling to cancer caregivers.
Non‐classical monocytes frequency and serum vitamin D3 levels are linked to diabetic foot ulcer associated with peripheral artery disease
Authors: Hammad Reham , Abdel Wahab Maisa A , Farouk Nehal , Zakaria Mohamed Yahia , Eldosoky Mona A , Elmadbouly Asmaa A , Tahoun Sara A , Mahmoud Eman , Khirala Seham K , Mohammed Amena Rezk , Emam Wafaa Abdelaziz , Abo Elqasem Asmaa A , Kotb Fatma M , Abd Elghany Rasha Abd Elaziz
Published: July 2023

Aims/Introduction

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) serves as a risk factor for diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). PAD pathology involves atherosclerosis and impaired immunity. Non‐classical monocytes are believed to have an anti‐inflammatory role. 1,25‐Dihydroxy vitamin D (vitamin D3) is claimed to have immune‐modulating and lipid‐regulating roles. Vitamin D receptor is expressed on monocytes. We aimed to investigate if circulating non‐classical monocytes and vitamin D3 were implicated in DFUs associated with PAD.

Materials and Methods

There were two groups of DFU patients: group 1 (n = 40) included patients with first‐degree DFUs not associated with PAD, and group 2 (n = 50) included patients with DFU with PAD. The monocyte phenotypes were detected using flow cytometry. Vitamin D3 was assessed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

DFU patients with PAD showed a significant reduction in the frequency of non‐classical monocytes and vitamin D3 levels, when compared with DFU patients without PAD. The percentage of non‐classical monocytes positively correlated with vitamin D3 level (r = 0.4, P < 0.01) and high‐density lipoprotein (r = 0.5, P < 0.001), whereas it was negatively correlated with cholesterol (r = −0.5, P < 0.001). Vitamin D3 was negatively correlated with triglyceride/high‐density lipoprotein (r = −0.4, P < 0.01). Regression analysis showed that a high vitamin D3 serum level was a protective factor against PAD occurrence.

Conclusions

Non‐classical monocytes frequency and vitamin D3 levels were significantly reduced in DFU patients with PAD. Non‐classical monocytes frequency was associated with vitamin D3 in DFUs patients, and both parameters were linked to lipid profile. Vitamin D3 upregulation was a risk‐reducing factor for PAD occurrence.
Industry Structure, Segmentation, and Quality Competition in the U.S. Hotel Industry*
Authors: Butters R. Andrew , Hubbard Thomas N.
Published: July 2023

We examine how quality competition affects the relationship between market size and industry structure at the product level using evidence from the U.S. hotel industry. Starting in the early 1980s, quality competition for business travelers became more based on variable and less on fixed costs, and became less scale intensive. Since then, market size increases have been met by more, but smaller, hotels in business travel destinations but continued to be met by larger hotels in personal travel destinations. Our results illustrate how the way consumers benefit from increases in market size depends on how firms compete.