bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The genetic architecture and evolutionary consequences of the human pelvic form
Authors: Xu Liaoyi , Kun Eucharist , Pandey Devansh , Wang Joyce Y. , Brasil Marianne F. , Singh Tarjinder , Narasimhan Vagheesh M.
Published: May 2024

Human pelvic shape has undergone significant evolutionary change since the divergence from the chimpanzee lineage. This transformation, involving the reduction of the pelvic canal size to support bipedal locomotion, is thought to give rise to the obstetrical dilemma, a hypothesis highlighting the mismatch between the large brain size of infants and the narrowed birth canal in females. Empirical evidence for this classic hypothesis has been equivocal, largely due to a lack of sample size and appropriate types of data. To elucidate the genetic underpinnings of pelvic morphology, we applied a deep learning model to 31,115 dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) from the UK Biobank, extracting a set of seven pelvic proportion (PP) phenotypes, including measures of the birth canal. All PPs were found to be highly heritable (∼25-40%) and a genome-wide association study of these traits identified 179 independent loci. Unlike other skeletal proportions including long bone lengths, the subpubic angle associated with the birth canal exhibits a genetic correlation between sexes significantly less than 1, in line with sex-specific reproductive function. PPs were also left-right asymmetric but not heritable and instead associated with handedness. We conducted phenotypic and genetic association analyses to link PPs to 3 facets of the dilemma: locomotion, pelvic floor function and childbirth. Larger birth canal phenotypes were associated with reduced walking pace, decreased risk of back pain, and increased risk of hip osteoarthritis - phenotypes linked to locomotor efficiency. We also observed that a narrower birth canal width was associated with a reduced risk of pelvic floor disorders. When examining childbirth-related outcomes, narrower birth canal phenotypes were associated with increased risk of emergency cesarean sections and obstructed labor due to insufficient dilation, but not obstructed labor due to positioning of the fetus. Finally, we examined whether the dilemma might have been alleviated through evolution. We found no association between any PPs and gestational duration, contrary to the initial prediction by Washburn in 1960. However, we found that the birth weight of the child, a proxy for skull and brain size, was genetically correlated with birth canal width but not with other PPs. Collectively, our study offers fresh insight on a 60-year-old debate in human evolutionary studies. Our results support the idea that the obstetrical dilemma has played a central role in the co-evolution of the human brain and pelvis, while also highlighting the potential role of associated factors such as pelvic floor health.
Sox5 controls the establishment of quiescence in neural stem cells during postnatal development
Authors: Medina-Menéndez Cristina , Li Lingling , Tirado-Melendro Paula , Rodríguez-Martín Pilar , Melgarejo-de la Peña Elena , Díaz-García Mario , Valdés-Bescós María , López-Sansegundo Rafael , Morales Aixa V.
Published: May 2024

Adult stem cells niches relays in the acquisition of a reversible state of quiescence to ensure long-lasting DNA integrity and cell expansion. Neural stem cells (NSCs) in the dentate gyrus (DG) enter quiescence before the adult hippocampal neurogenic niche is fully established. However, the mechanisms controlling NSC first quiescence entry and quiescence deepness are largely unknown. Using conditional mutant mouse during embryonic or postnatal stages, we have determined that transcription factor Sox5 is required to restrict first entry in quiescence. Moreover, we have found a critical window during the second postnatal week when NSCs build up a shallow or primed quiescent state. Loss of Sox5 leads to an excess of primed NSCs prone to activate leading to a neurogenic burst in the adult DG and precocious depletion of the NSC pool. Mechanistically, Sox5 prevent an excess of BMP canonical signaling activation, a pathway that we have now determined is associated to NSC primed state. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that Sox5 is required to control the correct balance between primed and deep quiescence during the first postnatal weeks of DG development, a balance which is essential for establishing long-lasting adult neurogenesis.
New insight into knockout reactions from the two-proton halo nucleus
Ne17
Authors: Wamers F. , Lehr C. , Marganiec-Gałązka J. , Aksouh F. , Aksyutina Yu. , Álvarez-Pol H. , Atar L. , Aumann T. , Beceiro-Novo S. , Bertulani C. A. , Boretzky K. , Borge M. J. G. , Caesar C. , Chartier M. , Chatillon A. , Chulkov L. V. , Cortina-Gil D. , Díaz Fernández P. , Emling H. , Ershova O. , Fraile L. M. , Fynbo H. O. U. , Galaviz D. , Geissel H. , Heil M. , Holl M. , Johansson H. T. , Jonson B. , Karagiannis C. , Kiselev O. A. , Kratz J. V. , Kulessa R. , Kurz N. , Langer C. , Lantz M. , Le Bleis T. , Lemmon R. , Litvinov Yu. A. , Mahata K. , Müntz C. , Nilsson T. , Nociforo C. , Panin V. , Paschalis S. , Perea A. , Plag R. , Reifarth R. , Richter A. , Riisager K. , Rodriguez-Tajes C. , Rossi D. , Savran D. , Scheit H. , Schrieder G. , Simon H. , Stroth J. , Sümmerer K. , Tengblad O. , Typel S. , Weick H.
Published: May 2024

The unexplained disagreement in the dependence of spectroscopic factors (C2Sexp) on the binding energy obtained by nucleon knockout using different targets is still a puzzle that needs to be addressed.

To find an explanation of this riddle through exclusive measurements using different targets.

The exclusive measurements were performed by using a Ne17 beam with an energy of 500 MeV/u incident on C and CH2 targets. Through the standard theoretical approach, C2Sexp were derived from the analysis of the experimental data on proton ejection from the proton halo in Ne17 as well as from its core O15.

For the C target, proton ejection from the proton halo gave C2Sexp about 37% smaller than for the H target. But when protons are ejected from the core of Ne17,

C

2

S

exp

are identical within statistical uncertainties.

An explanation for the difference in C2Sexp could be the removal of both halo protons, a more important reaction pathway for the C target. The C2Sexp values obtained by analyzing the proton ejection from the core indicate that it is not affected by the interaction with the halo protons.

Published by the American Physical Society2024
Anomalous dispersion, superluminality, and instabilities in two-flavor theories with local non-Hermitian mass mixing
Authors: Chernodub Maxim N. , Millington Peter
Published: May 2024

Pseudo-Hermitian field theories possess a global continuous “similarity” symmetry, interconnecting the theories with the same physical particle content and an identical mass spectrum. In their regimes with real spectra, within this family of similarity transformations, there is a map from the non-Hermitian theory to its Hermitian similarity partner. We promote the similarity transformation to a local symmetry, which requires the introduction of a new vector similarity field as a connection in the similarity space of non-Hermitian theories. In the case of non-Hermitian two-flavor scalar or fermion mixing and by virtue of a novel IR/UV mixing effect, the effect of inhomogeneous non-Hermiticity then reveals itself via anomalous dispersion, instabilities, and superluminal group velocities at very high momenta, thus setting an upper bound on the particle momentum propagating through inhomogeneous backgrounds characterized by Lagrangians with non-Hermitian mass matrices. Such a non-Hermitian extension of the Standard Model of particle physics, encoded in a weak inhomogeneity of the non-Hermitian part of the fermion mass matrix, may nevertheless provide us with a low-energy particle spectrum consistent with experimentally observed properties.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Decoherence and Momentum Relaxation in Fermi-Polaron Rabi Dynamics: A Kinetic Equation Approach
Authors: Wasak Tomasz , Sighinolfi Matteo , Lang Johannes , Piazza Francesco , Recati Alessio
Published: May 2024

Despite the paradigmatic nature of the Fermi-polaron model, the theoretical description of its nonlinear dynamics poses challenges. Here, we apply a quantum kinetic theory of driven polarons to recent experiments with ultracold atoms, where Rabi oscillations between a Fermi-polaron state and a noninteracting level were reported. The resulting equations separate decoherence from momentum relaxation, with the corresponding rates showing a different dependence on microscopic scattering processes and quasiparticle properties. We describe both the polaron ground state and the excited repulsive-polaron state and we find a good quantitative agreement between our predictions and the available experimental data without any fitting parameter. Our approach not only takes into account collisional phenomena, but also it can be used to study the different roles played by decoherence and the collisional integral in the strongly interacting highly imbalanced mixture of Fermi gases.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Structural and biochemical characterization of the M405S variant of Desulfovibrio vulgaris formate dehydrogenase
Authors: Vilela-Alves Guilherme , Rebelo Manuel Rita , Pedrosa Neide , Cardoso Pereira Inês A. , Romão Maria João , Mota Cristiano
Published: May 2024

Molybdenum- or tungsten-dependent formate dehydrogenases have emerged as significant catalysts for the chemical reduction of CO2 to formate, with biotechnological applications envisaged in climate-change mitigation. The role of Met405 in the active site of Desulfovibrio vulgaris formate dehydrogenase AB (DvFdhAB) has remained elusive. However, its proximity to the metal site and the conformational change that it undergoes between the resting and active forms suggests a functional role. In this work, the M405S variant was engineered, which allowed the active-site geometry in the absence of methionine Sδ interactions with the metal site to be revealed and the role of Met405 in catalysis to be probed. This variant displayed reduced activity in both formate oxidation and CO2 reduction, together with an increased sensitivity to oxygen inactivation.
Multi-mode operations of double-stator switched reluctance machine for electric vehicle
Authors: Li Shujing , Huang Xiaojuan , He Zhiheng , Liu Yongxiang , Qu Hui , Wu Jing
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce a double-stator switched reluctance machine (DS-SRM) for electric vehicles (EVs) and to propose multi-mode operations for this machine.

Design/methodology/approach

Analysis of flux linkage distributions and torque characteristics using finite element method (FEM). Building a dynamic simulation model based on electromagnetic characteristics, mathematical equations and mechanical motion equations of the DS-SRM drive system. The paper proposes multi-mode operations (inner-stator excitation mode, outer-stator excitation mode and double-stator excitation mode) based on motor working regions. It also conducts simulation and experimental results to verify the effectiveness of the proposed multi-mode operations strategies and control schemes.

Findings

There is almost no electromagnetic coupling between the inner and outer stators due to the specially designed rotor structure and optimized windings polarity configuration. Analysis of flux linkage distributions and torque characteristics verified the independence of inner and outer stators. Proposal of multi-mode operations and corresponding control rules achieved the smooth switching between different modes.

Originality/value

The paper introduced the DS-SRM for EVs and proposed multi-mode operations, along with control rules, to optimize its performance. The specially designed rotor structure, optimized winding polarity configuration, and the proposed multi-mode operations contribute to the originality of the research.
Knowledge management and fashion retail performance: the moderating role of product complexity
Authors: Rana Md. Rafiqul Islam , Youn Song-yi
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study explores the role of knowledge management capabilities (KMCs) in enhancing competitive advantage and organisational performance in fashion retailing. Employing the resource-based view (RBV) and knowledge-based view (KBV) perspectives, it investigates the interplay between managing knowledge effectively and fashion products’ complexity. The goal is to provide new insights into optimising KMC for greater agility and success in the fashion retail industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The study analysed survey data from 322 US fashion retail professionals using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM).

Findings

The results revealed that knowledge infrastructure capability enhanced both competitive advantage and organisational performance significantly. In contrast, knowledge process capability did not significantly affect competitive advantage, it improved organisational performance. Importantly, product complexity moderated the relationship between competitive advantage and organisational performance negatively.

Practical implications

This study underscores the necessity for retailers in the fashion industry to enhance their KMC to bolster competitive advantage and organisational performance, while it also acknowledges product complexity’s effect on these strategies. These insights offer actionable guidance for industry leaders to optimise knowledge management to navigate the rapidly evolving retail landscape.

Originality/value

This research offers novel insights into the interplay of product complexity and KMC in fashion retail and highlights the unique effects on competitive advantage and organisational performance valuable for both academia and industry.
Determinants of electric vehicle adoption: insights from Indian states
Authors: Nigam Nitish , Samanta Debabrata , Senapati Sibananda
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Electric Vehicles (EVs), owing to their low carbon emissions, have gained immense importance in achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. They have also appeared as viable substitute to conventional vehicles. Aligning with global initiatives, India has created a favourable ecosystem and has implemented several policies since 2011 to achieve its target. Consequently, the market share of EVs has surged, both globally and in India, over the past decade. Taking this into account, this study aims to identify the factors that influence EVs in a developing economy using the context of India.

Design/methodology/approach

This study identified important determinants of EV adoption from global literature and employed a multiple linear regression model (MLRM) using the ordinary least squares (OLS) technique. Secondary data were utilised to identify determinants in the Indian context, sourced from the Ministry, NITI Aayog, AQI, the Lok Sabha Question, and the Economic Survey of India.

Findings

This study found that the number of charging stations and local pollution levels significantly influence EV adoption in India. The insignificance of the other variables may be due to the emerging state of the Indian EV market.

Originality/value

This study adds to the growing body of literature on EV adoption in developing economies by analysing the factors that impact its adoption using regional data. In addition, this study provides a unique perspective on a developing economy and advocates a comprehensive policy for EV adoption that reflects long-term sustainability.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-06-2023-0479.
From love to betrayal? When your team’s sponsor decides to also sponsor your rival
Authors: Tsordia Charitomeni , Lianopoulos Yannis , Dalakas Vassilis , Theodorakis Nicholas D.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The aim of this research was to investigate fans’ responses toward a sponsor that has had a long-standing sponsorship deal with a club and decided also to sponsor the club’s rival.

Design/methodology/approach

A long-term sponsorship deal between a retsina wine company and a popular football club and a newly established deal between the company and the main rival club were selected as the research setting. Data were collected from a total sample of 302 participants, fans of the two teams, using an online survey and PLS-SEM was employed to test the relationships of the proposed structural model.

Findings

The results provided evidence for the importance of the inclusion of perceptions of fit for both teams to the model as it impacted the responses in the joint sponsorship. Team identification emerged significant for improving fans perceptions of fit between the sponsor and their favorite club but also led fans of the long-term sponsored club to feel betrayed from the sponsor. The sense of betrayal impacted the level of fit, the rejection of sponsorship but did not emerge significant for driving negative responses toward the sponsor’s brand. The same held for the rejection of the joint sponsorship.

Originality/value

This is the very first study that incorporated the effects of the perceptions of fit of two rival clubs to test the effect of sponsorship for a sponsor brand of a deal that includes a longtime sponsored football club and its rival as a newly sponsored one. It is also one of the first attempts that explores relationships between perceptions of fit, sense of betrayal and rejection of a joint sport sponsorship in a rivalry context, highlighting the importance of preventing fans' betrayal.
Internal control systems of SMEs in Nigeria: a proactive or reactive strategy against employees’ fraud?
Authors: Ololade Babatunde Moses
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine the strategy adopted by small- and medium-scale enterprise (SME) owners in setting up internal control systems, examine the relationship between the numbers of employees’ fraud and strategy adopted in setting up internal control and evaluate the difference between proactive and reactive strategies in employee’s fraud prevention among SMEs.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey research approach was adopted to determine whether proactive or reactive strategies were adopted by the SME owners. Specifically, a survey questionnaire was used to gather primary data from selected respondents in Lagos and Oyo States. Descriptive statistics, Spearman correlation and the Mann–Whitney test were used to analyse the primary data.

Findings

The study found that most of the SME owners used reactive internal control strategies in setting up their internal control systems after they suffered financial losses occasioned by employees’ fraud. Also, the study found a positive relationship between the number of employees’ fraud and reactive strategy. Finally, the study found a significant difference in the number of employees’ fraud occurrences between proactive and reactive internal control strategies in SMEs.

Research limitations/implications

The study provides further confirmation that where internal control is properly set up and strengthened, a lower number of employee frauds will occur. Thus, giving credence to the fraud theory. The study was, however, conducted in six selected local government areas in two states.

Practical implications

The study provides recommendations on the adoption of a proactive strategy for curbing employees’ fraud at the onset of business operations and not until devastating events of employees’ fraud become a reality.

Originality/value

The study is original, as it focuses on the strategy adopted by SME owners in setting up internal control systems, which is rare in fraud empirical studies, particularly for studies conducted in emerging markets like Nigeria. It provides the need for the sustainability of SMEs as engine of growth and employment through the adoption of appropriate strategies in setting up internal control systems.
How carbon trading contributes to reduction in emission of greenhouse gases: a narrative literature review
Authors: Kukah Augustine Senanu Komla , Jin Xiaohua , Osei-Kyei Robert , Perera Srinath
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to undertake a review of how carbon trading contributes to a reduction in emission of greenhouse gases (CHGs).

Design/methodology/approach

A narrative literature review approach was adopted to identify and synthesise existing literature using the Scopus and Web of Science databases. Articles were limited to the past 10 years to obtain the most current literature. The various ways in which carbon trading leads to reductions in emissions were identified and discussed.

Findings

The results showed that the main ways in which carbon trading contributes to reductions in emissions are through innovation in low-carbon technologies, restoration of ecosystems through offset money, development of renewable and clean energy and providing information on investment related to emissions.

Practical implications

The value of this study is to contribute to the built environment’s climate change mitigation agenda by identifying the role of carbon trading.

Originality/value

The output of this research identifies and contextualises the role carbon trading plays in the reduction of CHG emissions.
Proximity and regional innovation performance: the mediating role of absorptive capacity
Authors: Zhao Shuliang , Wang Junchen
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Proximity is a crucial factor influencing innovation collaboration and performance. Most existing studies have primarily focused on the organizational level and been static in nature. Therefore, a further study on how proximity affects innovation performance is needed. This paper aims to fill this gap by highlighting the organizational, cognitive and geographical proximity in China’s open regional innovation system.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper analyzes the data from 2010 to 2015 through path analysis.

Findings

The results reveal that geographical proximity has a direct positive effect on regional innovation performance in China’s regional innovation system. It also shows that organizational proximity exerts a negative impact on absorptive capacity, and through it adversely affects regional innovation performance. In contrast, cognitive proximity is found to have a positive effect on absorptive capacity, enhancing regional innovation performance.

Originality/value

Based on these findings, this paper contributes to a better understanding of the role of proximity in innovation collaboration and performance. By highlighting the importance of different proximity types, it provides insights for policymakers and practitioners seeking to foster regional innovation.
Attitudes and behaviors regarding sun exposure in Japan compared to Europe and North America
Authors: Morita A. , Lim H. W. , Passeron T. , Goh C. L. , Kang H. Y. , Ly F. , Ocampo‐Candiani J. , Puig S. , Schalka S. , Wei L. , Demessant A. L. , Le Floc’h C. , Kerob D. , Dreno B. , Krutmann J.
Published: May 2024

The objective of our study was to assess the attitudes and behaviors in Japan regarding sun exposure and compare them to those in Europe and North America. The study population was a representative sample of individuals aged >18 years from Ipsos panels in Japan (N = 1000), North America (N = 1000), and Europe (N = 6000) using the quota method. Questionnaires covered habits, practices, and perceptions regarding sun exposure. Results revealed that the majority of people (80.1%) believed that the sun gives them energy, and 61.1% considered that being tanned made them look healthier. However, there was a significant difference between men and women regarding the appeal of tanned skin, with 54.95% of men versus 34.67% (p < 0.001) of women seeing a tan as an aesthetic asset. People aged <40 years were less likely to find a tan attractive (30.3%) compared to those aged ≥40 years (48.9%) (p < 0.001). Of those questioned, 45.70% of used sunscreen with a much higher use among women (70.10%) than men (18.74%) (p < 0.001). Almost 54% of people said they stayed in the shade to protect themselves from the sun with this behavior being more prevalent among women (67.05%) and fair‐skinned individuals (56.13%). Fear of the risks of sun exposure was more common among women, with 84.8% fearing premature skin aging, compared to 71.8% of men (p < 0.001). In Japan, 44.30% of those questioned said tanned skin was attractive (p < 0.001); for Europeans and North Americans the proportions were 81.1% and 77.6%, respectively. Only a quarter (25.80%) thought it essential to return from vacation with a tan. On the other hand, Europeans showed a strong recognition of the energy the sun brings (83.18%), and widely believed that tanned skin is attractive (82.32%) and healthy (73.15%). In North America, attitudes were similar to those in Europe regarding the attractiveness of tanned skin (77.65%) and the importance of returning tanned from vacation (48.15%). Compared to Europeans and North Americans, the Japanese seemed to be more cautious about sun‐induced hazards and considered lighter skin to be more attractive.
Repeated clearing as a mechanism for savanna recovery following bush encroachment
Authors: Wedel Emily R. , Nippert Jesse B. , O'Connor Rory C. , Nkuna Peace , Swemmer Anthony M.
Published: May 2024

Many savannas are experiencing increased cover of trees and shrubs, resulting in reduced herbaceous productivity, shifts in savanna functional structure and potential reductions in ecotourism. Clearing woody plants has been suggested as an effective management strategy to mitigate these effects and restore these systems to an open state with higher rates of grass production and herbivory. This study investigated the effectiveness of repeated shrub clearing as a tool to mitigate bush encroachment in a semi‐arid savanna in southern Africa.

We present data from a 7‐year experiment in the Mthimkhulu Game Reserve bordering Kruger National Park, South Africa. Colophospermum mopane stems and resprouting shoots were basally cut 2–3 times per year (2015–2022) in three pairs of treatment and control plots of 60 × 60 m. We monitored changes in soil moisture, grass biomass and herbivore activity via dung counts. We assessed C. mopane physiological responses to repeated cutting using non‐structural carbohydrates and stable water isotopes to infer changes to energy storage and functional rooting depth, respectively.

The cleared treatment had higher soil moisture and grass biomass than the control treatment. Dung counts showed impala and buffalo visited the cleared treatment more frequently than the control treatment.

Repeated cutting had limited effects on C. mopane survival in the first 2–3 years after initial clearing, but 80% of individuals were dead after 7 years. Repeatedly cut C. mopane had lower belowground starch concentrations and used water from shallower soil depths than C. mopane in control plots.

Synthesis and applications. Repeated cutting increased soil moisture availability and grass biomass, and attracted charismatic grazing herbivores. While more costly than once‐off clearing methods, this practice created more employment opportunities for a neighbouring rural community. Transforming portions of the ecosystem to a grass‐dominated state may increase ecotourism potential through improved game viewing in open systems.
Microencapsulation of fish oil by spray drying, spray freeze‐drying, freeze‐drying, and microwave freeze‐drying: Microcapsule characterization and storage stability
Authors: Yang Mengmeng , Li Linlin , Zhu Xiaomai , Liang Luodan , Chen Junliang , Cao Weiwei , Liu Wenchao , Duan Xu , Ren Guangyue , Liu Zhenbin
Published: May 2024

The objective of this paper was to evaluate the effect of spray drying (SD), spray freeze‐drying (SFD), freeze‐drying (FD), and microwave freeze‐drying (MFD) on the characteristics of fish oil (FO) microcapsules. The physicochemical properties, morphology, fatty acid composition, and stability of the microcapsules were analyzed. The encapsulation efficiencies of microcapsules dried by SD, SFD, FD, and MFD were 86.98%, 77.79%, 63.29%, and 57.89%, respectively. SD microcapsules exhibited superior properties in terms of effective loading capacity, color, and flowability. Conversely, SFD microcapsules demonstrated improved solubility. Microencapsulation positively affected the thermal stability of FO, but the content of unsaturated fatty acids decreased. The findings from the storage experiment indicated that the oxidative stability of SD fish oil microcapsules was marginally lower compared to microcapsules produced through three alternative drying techniques, all of which were based on the FD concept. The comparison of various drying methods and their effects on the quality of FO microcapsules offers valuable insights that can serve as a foundation for the industrial production of high‐quality microcapsules.
Hedge accounting, IFRS 9, and audit fees: Evidence from China
Authors: Jiang Jin , Ye Rui
Published: May 2024

Using data for 2016–2021 on a sample of Chinese non‐financial firms, this study documents a positive association between the use of hedge accounting and audit fees and finds that the new requirements under International Financial Reporting Standards 9 (IFRS 9) help mitigate this positive relationship. Channel analyses show that the new hedge accounting requirements mitigate earnings volatility and accruals management, which results in audit fee reductions. Further, the post‐IFRS 9 audit fee decrease is greater among large audit firms, firms in regions with higher marketisation levels and firms with better corporate governance.
Airway management in patients with suspected or confirmed cervical spine injury
Authors: Wiles Matthew D. , Iliff Helen A. , Brooks Katherine , Da Silva Egidio J. , Donnellon Mike , Gardner Adrian , Harris Matthew , Leech Caroline , Mathieu Steve , Moor Paul , Prisco Lara , Rivett Kate , Tait Frances , El‐Boghdadly Kariem
Published: May 2024

Background

There are concerns that airway management in patients with suspected or confirmed cervical spine injury may exacerbate an existing neurological deficit, cause a new spinal cord injury or be hazardous due to precautions to avoid neurological injury. However, there are no evidence‐based guidelines for practicing clinicians to support safe and effective airway management in this setting.

Methods

An expert multidisciplinary, multi‐society working party conducted a systematic review of contemporary literature (January 2012–June 2022), followed by a three‐round Delphi process to produce guidelines to improve airway management for patients with suspected or confirmed cervical spine injury.

Results

We included 67 articles in the systematic review, and successfully agreed 23 recommendations. Evidence supporting recommendations was generally modest, and only one moderate and two strong recommendations were made. Overall, recommendations highlight key principles and techniques for pre‐oxygenation and facemask ventilation; supraglottic airway device use; tracheal intubation; adjuncts during tracheal intubation; cricoid force and external laryngeal manipulation; emergency front‐of‐neck airway access; awake tracheal intubation; and cervical spine immobilisation. We also signpost to recommendations on pre‐hospital care, military settings and principles in human factors.

Conclusions

It is hoped that the pragmatic approach to airway management made within these guidelines will improve the safety and efficacy of airway management in adult patients with suspected or confirmed cervical spine injury.
Greater mobile device‐prompted phone pickups are associated with daily parent stress
Authors: Munzer Tiffany G. , Miller Alison L. , Weeks Heidi M. , Kaciroti Niko , Radesky Jenny
Published: May 2024

Aim

No studies have examined notifications as they relate to parent stress. We aimed to examine associations between objective daily mobile device notifications and pickups with daily parenting stress.

Methods

This was a within‐ and between‐subjects, cross‐sectional study that took place from 2020 to 2021. The study occurred during the coronavirus disease of 2019 pandemic. Data were collected in a low‐contact home visit. This study included 62 parents of 62 children aged 48–71 months. Parents downloaded a passive sensing app on their Android mobile devices collecting data on duration, device notifications and device pickups. Parents completed an end‐of‐day stress survey for 4 days. We used random effects models to examine the variation of daily stress with smartphone duration, notification frequency, pickup frequency and device‐initiated pickups, adjusting for covariates.

Results

Parents were on average 37.3 years old (SD ± 5.7) and were predominantly mothers (82.3%). On average, parents received 293 daily notifications and picked up their phones 93 times. Duration of smartphone use and notification frequency were not associated with daily stress. Device‐initiated pickups were associated with daily parent stress.

Conclusion

When notifications prompted parents to pick up their phones more often, parents experienced greater stress.
Managing common toxicities associated with checkpoint inhibitor and chemotherapy combinations for untreated classic Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Kuczmarski Thomas M. , Lynch Ryan C.
Published: May 2024

Combination checkpoint inhibitor (CPI) and chemotherapy is an effective and safe treatment strategy for patients with untreated classic Hodgkin lymphoma. Recent studies of programmed cell death protein 1 inhibitors combined with doxorubicin, vinblastine and dacarbazine have demonstrated high overall and complete response rates. This combination has a unique toxicity profile that should be managed appropriately so as not to compromise treatment efficacy. Common toxicities include rash, hepatoxicity, neutropenia and thyroid dysfunction. Here, we present four cases and the management strategies around such toxicities. In addition, we highlight key clinical decision‐making around the administration of subsequent doses of CPI and chemotherapy.
Translating leader–member exchange to innovative work behaviour: The role of creative self‐efficacy and team support for innovation
Authors: Modliba Robert , Fischer Stefan B. , Treffers Theresa , Welpe Isabell M.
Published: May 2024

Employees' innovative work behaviour (IWB) is crucial for organizations' long‐term performance and success. In particular, research has examined leadership as a crucial antecedent of IWB, but there are inconclusive results about how leader–member exchange (LMX) translates into IWB. Building on LMX theory, we examine how the relationship between LMX and IWB is translated through subordinates' creative self‐efficacy as a motivational factor and team support for innovation as a social‐relational factor. To test our hypotheses, we conducted a matched field survey with 171 subordinates and supervisors and found a positive association between LMX and IWB. Our results also show that this relationship is mediated by team support for innovation but not by creative self‐efficacy. Our findings confirm the importance of the social aspect in the innovation process and suggest that perceived social support plays a more significant role in the translation of LMX into the IWB than do individual motivational factors.
A daily diary study of discrimination and distress in Mexican‐origin adolescents: Testing mediating mechanisms
Authors: Park Irene J. K. , Wang Lijuan , Li Ruoxuan , Yip Tiffany , Valentino Kristin , Cruz‐Gonzalez Mario , Giraldo‐Santiago Natalia , Lorenzo Kyle , Zhen‐Duan Jenny , Alvarez Kiara , Alegría Margarita
Published: May 2024

The present 21‐day daily diary study (conducted 2021–2022) tested anger and racism‐related vigilance as potential transdiagnostic mediators linking exposure to racial and ethnic discrimination (RED) to distress (negative affect and stress, respectively). The data analytic sample included N = 317 Mexican‐origin adolescents (Mage = 13.5 years; 50.8% male, 46.7% female; 2.5% non‐binary) from the Midwestern United States. Results from longitudinal mediation models revealed significant mediation effects through anger and racism‐related vigilance, respectively, in the association between daily RED and daily distress, both within and across adolescents. Implications for theory, research, and practice are discussed so that future work can leverage these novel findings toward promoting the well‐being of Mexican‐origin adolescents, especially those who live in contexts of ethnoracial adversity.
Risk prediction algorithms for prolonged postoperative ileus: A systematic review
Authors: Liu Gordon Xin Hua , Milne Tony , Xu William , Varghese Chris , Keane Celia , O'Grady Greg , Bissett Ian P. , Wells Cameron I.
Published: May 2024

Aim

Prolonged postoperative ileus (PPOI) is common and is associated with a significant healthcare burden. Previous studies have attempted to predict PPOI clinically using risk prediction algorithms. The aim of this work was to systematically review and compare risk prediction algorithms for PPOI following colorectal surgery.

Method

A systematic literature search was conducted using MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science and CINAHL Plus. Studies that developed and/or validated a risk prediction algorithm for PPOI in adults following colorectal surgery were included. Data were collected on study design, population and operative characteristics, the definition of PPOI used and risk prediction algorithm design and performance. Quality appraisal was assessed using the PROBAST tool.

Results

Eleven studies with 87 549 participants were included in our review. Most were retrospective, single‐centre analyses (6/11, 55%) and rates of PPOI varied from 10% to 28%. The most commonly used variables were sex (8/11, 73%), age (6/11, 55%) and surgical approach (5/11, 45%). Area under the curve ranged from 0.68–0.78, and only three models were validated. However, there was significant variation in the definition of PPOI used. No study reported sensitivity, specificity or positive/negative predictive values.

Conclusion

Currently available risk prediction algorithms for PPOI appear to discriminate moderately well, although there is a lack of validation data. Future studies should aim to use a standardized definition of PPOI, comprehensively report model performance and validate their findings using internal and external methodologies.
Pharmacokinetic interactions between fexuprazan, a potassium‐competitive acid blocker, and nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs in healthy males
Authors: Won Heejae , Kim Eunwoo , Chae Jihye , Lee Hyejung , Cho Joo‐Youn , Jang In‐Jin , Chung Jae‐Yong , Kim Min‐Gul , Lee SeungHwan
Published: May 2024

Fexuprazan, a novel potassium‐competitive acid blocker, is expected to be used for the prevention of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) induced ulcer. This study aimed to evaluate pharmacokinetic (PK) interactions between fexuprazan and NSAIDs in healthy subjects. A randomized, open‐label, multicenter, six‐sequence, one‐way crossover study was conducted in healthy male subjects. Subjects randomly received one of the study drugs (fexuprazan 40 mg BID, celecoxib 200 mg BID, naproxen 500 mg BID, or meloxicam 15 mg QD) for 5 or 7 days in the first period followed by the combination of fexuprazan and one of NSAIDs for the same days and the perpetrator additionally administered for 1–2 days in the second period. Serial blood samples for PK analysis were collected until 48‐ or 72‐h post‐dose at steady state. PK parameters including maximum plasma concentration at steady state (Cmax,ss) and area under plasma concentration–time curve over dosing interval at steady state (AUCτ,ss) were compared between monotherapy and combination therapy. The PKs of NSAIDs were not significantly altered by fexuprazan. For fexuprazan, differences in PK parameters (22% in Cmax, 19% in AUCτ,ss) were observed when co‐administered with naproxen, but not clinically significant. The geometric mean ratio (90% confidence interval) of combination therapy to monotherapy for Cmax,ss and AUCτ,ss was 1.22 (1.02–1.46) and 1.19 (1.00–1.43), respectively. There were no significant changes in the systemic exposure of fexuprazan by celecoxib and meloxicam. Fexuprazan and NSAIDs did not show clinically meaningful PK interactions.
Earlier detection of gestational diabetes impacts on medication requirements, neonatal and maternal outcomes
Authors: Tirado‐Aguilar Omar Alberto , Martinez‐Cruz Nayeli , Arce‐Sanchez Lidia , Borboa‐Olivares Hector , Reyes‐Muñoz Enrique , Espino‐y‐Sosa Salvador , Villafan‐Bernal Jose Rafael , Martinez‐Portilla Raigam Jafet , Estrada‐Gutierrez Guadalupe , Uribe‐Torres Regina , Tirado Aguilar Ricardo Daniel , Lopez‐Torres Maria Fernanda , Ramos‐Mendoza Cecilia , Camacho‐Martinez Zaira Alexi , Aguilar‐Jaimes Nelson Yesid , Torres‐Torres Johnatan
Published: May 2024

Aim

Gestational diabetes (GD) is a global health concern with significant implications for maternal and neonatal outcomes. This study investigates the association between early GD (eGD) diagnosis (<24 weeks), pharmacotherapy requirements and adverse neonatal outcomes.

Materials and Methods

A cohort of 369 pregnant women underwent a 75‐g oral glucose tolerance test. Maternal variables, pharmacotherapy prescriptions and neonatal outcomes were analysed employing t‐tests, χ2 tests, and logistic regression. A p < .05 was considered significant.

Results

Early GD increased the odds of neonatal hypoglycaemia [odds ratio (OR): 18.57, p = .013] and respiratory distress syndrome (OR: 4.75, p = .034). Nutritional therapy prescription by an accredited nutritionist was the most common treatment in women diagnosed after 24 weeks, but those with eGD required more frequently specialized nutritional consulting + metformin to achieve glycaemic control (p = .027). eGD was associated with a higher requirement of nutritional therapy prescription + metformin (OR: 2.26, 95% confidence interval: 1.25‐4.09, p = .007) and with maternal hyperglycaemia during the post‐partum period at 2 h of the oral glucose tolerance test (OR: 1.03, 95% confidence interval: 1.02‐1.13, p = .024).

Conclusion

Timely diagnosis and personalized treatment of GD are desirable because an earlier presentation is related to a higher risk of adverse neonatal and maternal outcomes.
Predicting amyloid‐PET and clinical conversion in apolipoprotein E ε3/ε3 non‐demented individuals with multidimensional factors
Authors: Xu Lijuan , Ren Chao , Jing Chenxi , Wang Gang , Wei Hongchun , Kong Min , Ba Maowen ,   for Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: May 2024

The apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 is a well‐established risk factor of amyloid‐β (Aβ) in Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, because of the high prevalence of APOE ε3, there may be a large number of people with APOE ε3/ε3 who are non‐demented and have Aβ pathology. There are limited studies on assessing Aβ status and clinical conversion in the APOE ε3/ε3 non‐demented population. Two hundred and ninety‐three non‐demented individuals with APOE ε3/ε3 from ADNI database were divided into Aβ‐positron emission tomography (Aβ‐PET) positivity (+) and Aβ‐PET negativity (−) groups using cut‐off value of >1.11. Stepwise regression searched for a single or multidimensional clinical variables for predicting Aβ‐PET (+), and the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) assessed the accuracy of the predictive models. The Cox regression model explored the risk factors associated with clinical conversion to mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or AD. The results showed that the combination of sex, education, ventricle and white matter hyperintensity (WMH) volume can accurately predict Aβ‐PET status in cognitively normal (CN), and the combination of everyday cognition study partner total (EcogSPTotal) score, age, plasma p‐tau 181 and WMH can accurately predict Aβ‐PET status in MCI individuals. EcogSPTotal score were independent predictors of clinical conversion to MCI or AD. The findings may provide a non‐invasive and effective tool to improve the efficiency of screening Aβ‐PET (+), accelerate and reduce costs of AD trial recruitment in future secondary prevention trials or help to select patients at high risk of disease progression in clinical trials.
The paleoredox context of early eukaryotic evolution: insights from the Tonian Mackenzie Mountains Supergroup, Canada
Authors: Maloney Katie M. , Halverson Galen P. , Lechte Maxwell , Gibson Timothy M. , Bui Thi Hao , Schiffbauer James D. , Laflamme Marc
Published: May 2024

Tonian (ca. 1000–720 Ma) marine environments are hypothesised to have experienced major redox changes coinciding with the evolution and diversification of multicellular eukaryotes. In particular, the earliest Tonian stratigraphic record features the colonisation of benthic habitats by multicellular macroscopic algae, which would have been powerful ecosystem engineers that contributed to the oxygenation of the oceans and the reorganisation of biogeochemical cycles. However, the paleoredox context of this expansion of macroalgal habitats in Tonian nearshore marine environments remains uncertain due to limited well‐preserved fossils and stratigraphy. As such, the interdependent relationship between early complex life and ocean redox state is unclear. An assemblage of macrofossils including the chlorophyte macroalga Archaeochaeta guncho was recently discovered in the lower Mackenzie Mountains Supergroup in Yukon (Canada), which archives marine sedimentation from ca. 950–775 Ma, permitting investigation into environmental evolution coincident with eukaryotic ecosystem evolution and expansion. Here we present multi‐proxy geochemical data from the lower Mackenzie Mountains Supergroup to constrain the paleoredox environment within which these large benthic macroalgae thrived. Two transects show evidence for basin‐wide anoxic (ferruginous) oceanic conditions (i.e., high FeHR/FeT, low Fepy/FeHR), with muted redox‐sensitive trace metal enrichments and possible seasonal variability. However, the weathering of sulfide minerals in the studied samples may obscure geochemical signatures of euxinic conditions. These results suggest that macroalgae colonized shallow environments in an ocean that remained dominantly anoxic with limited evidence for oxygenation until ca. 850 Ma. Collectively, these geochemical results provide novel insights into the environmental conditions surrounding the evolution and expansion of benthic macroalgae and the eventual dominance of oxygenated oceanic conditions required for the later emergence of animals.