bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of fit between knowledge potential and organizational routine updating on subsidiaries’ new product development performance
Authors: Yan Le , Li Wei , Hou Jiawen , Tan Shizheng
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine new product development (NPD) performance to identify effective knowledge update strategies and assess the impact of environmental uncertainty on these dynamics. It aims to understand how different knowledge potentials and organizational routines interact to enhance product outcomes. The specific subsidiary context enriches understanding by identifying challenges and opportunities that are not typically visible in broader organizational studies.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey of 310 business managers was conducted to measure their knowledge potential and organizational routine updating. The hypotheses were tested using hierarchical regression analysis to determine the optimal combinations of knowledge and practice updates for NPD performance.

Findings

Results indicate that both knowledge potential and organizational routine updating significantly enhance subsidiary performance. Specifically, knowledge accumulation paired with routine creation and knowledge difference paired with routine revision optimally boosts product development. Moreover, this study reveals an inverted U-shaped relationship between environmental uncertainty and the effectiveness of these combinations, suggesting a complex interplay that affects NPD performance.

Originality/value

This study enhances understanding of NPD performance by integrating resource concordance theory with empirical analysis of knowledge and organizational strategy adaptations. It underscores the moderating role of environmental uncertainty, offering new theoretical insights into enhancing product development performance. Although the focus on subsidiaries limits broader applicability, it provides valuable insights into the nuanced NPD dynamics in these specific entities, suggesting avenues for future research to expand this study’s findings across different organizational types.
The conceptualization of the dimensionality of corporate communication management: a systematic literature review
Authors: Baz Lide , Agirre-Aramburu Izaskun , Azanza Garazi
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to develop a conceptual framework for comprehending and identifying the dimensions of corporate communication management (CCM) over time. To achieve this objective, it synthesizes existing research and reviews the literature on the dimensionality of CCM.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a literature search on Web of Science (WoS), a total of 17 articles from 8 referred journals and international conferences published from 2012 to 2022 are systematically reviewed employing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework.

Findings

It has been found that despite the growing interest in CCM, academic literature on CCM is limited. The results highlight that there is a nonuniformity in terminology within the field and that the most repeated dimensions are media relations, dimensions related to strategy, corporate advertising, public relations, investor relations, employee communication, public affairs and internal communication. However, an overview of the findings allows for the proposal of an integrative framework for CCM.

Originality/value

The paper offers a thorough compilation of publications on the dimensionality of CCM and categorizes them based on various attributes. This outcome aims to assist researchers and corporate communication practitioners by elucidating the subject matter through the conceptualization of CCM dimensions. The study underscores the necessity for future research utilizing quantitative or mixed-method approaches to further develop the concepts examined, thereby contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the dimensions and applications of CCM.
Blurred limits and threat of isolation? Employees’ fears in transition to self-determined organization
Authors: Kantola Jenni , Kinnunen Juha P.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Today’s organizations face constant structural and cultural changes at an accelerated pace, with a growing focus on self-determination to improve employee motivation and organizational performance. The shift toward a self-determined organizational culture allows employees greater autonomy in making decisions related to their work which are found to provide many positive organizational- and individual-level outcomes. However, adapting to an autonomous work culture is a complex process and demands cognitive capacity, which is especially challenging for those who have previously experienced low autonomy in their work. Consequently, individuals are found to experience mixed feelings as they make sense of ongoing changes and fear potential dangers that change entails. The purpose of the present study is to understand what employees perceive as frightening in a self-determined organizational culture, which is generally associated with a positive image and that so many organizations are increasingly leaning to in that direction.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, we collected ten in-depth-interviews from employees from a case company, Finnish financial services company that was undergoing an organizational change toward a self-determined organizational culture. We approached data from grounded theory perspective that revealed that fear was explicit in participants’ narration, which then led us to focus on fears. By applying the Gioia method to the analysis, we recognized how individuals made sense of change through fears.

Findings

In our findings, we recognized that individuals made sense of the change in an organization’s culture through processing fears on three levels: fears of doing, being, and becoming. This revealed that individuals do not fear an organization’s cultural change only because they need to adjust to new ways of working but because they themselves must change too. While individuals are experiencing enormous changes at work, they are engaging in a process where they try to make sense of expectations and struggle to create new meanings and behaviors. Expressing worries of an organization’s actions and development can be one way of distancing oneself from the change while evaluating one´s own position.

Originality/value

This study provides an understanding of an ongoing organizational culture change in the context of a transition to a self-determined organizational culture. Although the benefits of self-determined organizing and culture have been strongly emphasized, this study points out the challenges that an increase in autonomy causes among employees and how demanding the process in adapting to a new culture can be.
Industry 4.0 in the supply chain: a proposal for the management of healthcare with a focus on materials and medicines
Authors: Ravaglia Claudia Carrijo , Scavarda Annibal , Dias Ana , Silveira Haydee
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The objective of this paper is to investigate how Industry 4.0 technologies can contribute to solve the problems of managing materials and medicines in the hospital supply chain, identifying opportunities for their adoption, evaluating their potential and impacts on this segment. This paper also plans to investigate the challenges involving change management, financial impacts and major changes in the process with the introduction of new technologies.

Design/methodology/approach

The research carried out a literature review using the CAPES Periodicals portal, which includes renowned scientific bases, like Scopus and Web of Science. The intention was to identify problems in the logistics of materials and medicines in hospital pharmacy. In addition, a second search was carried out in papers related to Industry 4.0 and the supply chain. Subsequently, it was listed how Industry 4.0 technologies could influence the management of the hospital supply chain, on materials and medicines.

Findings

The new technologies of Industry 4.0 identified in the research can contribute to the improvement of the hospital management supply chain, benefiting from a higher level of automation, control and security presented in the research. Thus, the article addresses a new perspective in the management of materials and medications in hospital pharmacy, adding value to the topic, as new technologies can provide more safety to patients, savings for hospital management, reducing waste and environmental impacts.

Originality/value

The automation of the supply chain, in the materials and medicines segment, in hospital environments, adopting Industry 4.0 techniques, will make it possible to differentiate hospital management, generating great added value, benefiting the entire chain. The combination of technologies such as IoT, BigData and artificial intelligence, applied to the management of materials and medicines, will allow real-time management; consumption and stock estimates; more agile and reliable decision-making process; greater economic efficiency, in addition to contributing to patient safety.
Strategy adaptation under external uncertainty: examining speed-based competitions
Authors: Huang Ying , Mu Wenlong
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Despite the growing attention being paid to the role of uncertainty in the competitive business environment, few studies have considered uncertainty as an antecedent factor and explored its direct impact on accelerating a firm’s innovation speed. This study develops a conceptual framework that examines the impacts of technological uncertainty and market uncertainty on innovation speed, building on complex adaptive theory. Furthermore, it is important to note that the internal resources of a firm and its external environment are not separate entities. In this study, we investigate the moderating role of a firm's internal and external resource ability (financial constraints level and organizational slack level) in the relationship between environmental uncertainty and innovation speed.

Design/methodology/approach

Our data sample is the panel data of China's A-share listed companies. The data year span is from 2000 to 2018. We use a hierarchical regression analysis model.

Findings

Our results reveal that both technology uncertainty and market uncertainty can promote innovation speed. Still, a firm’s organizational slack positively moderates the relationship between technology uncertainty and innovation speed, and financial constraints negatively moderate the relationship between demand uncertainty and innovation speed.

Originality/value

Our research contributes to the existing literature on uncertainty and extends its research perspective by no longer taking uncertainty as an environmental factor but exploring its direct impact. Still, our research focuses on innovation speed and discusses the impact of environmental uncertainty (including technology uncertainty and demand uncertainty) on firms’ innovation speed, expanding the limitations of previous research, which usually holds a relatively general perspective on innovation problems.
Knowledge and attitudes of nurses toward caring of older people in primary health-care centers at South of Jordan
Authors: Alhroub Nisser , Al-Sarairhe Ishraq , Alkhawaldeh Abdullah , ALBashtawy Mohammed , Al Omari Omar , Salameh Basma , Batran Ahmad , Ayed Ahmad , Ababneh Anas , Abdalrahim Asem , ALBashtawy Zaid
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to assess the knowledge and attitudes of 420 nurses toward caring for older people in primary health-care centers in the southern region of Jordan.

Design/methodology/approach

Data collected through an electronic survey was analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0.

Findings

The findings revealed that 91.0% of nurses had limited knowledge, with only 7.1% demonstrating average knowledge and 1.9% showing good knowledge about older people care. Furthermore, 85.2% of participants held neutral attitudes toward aged care, while 12.4% had positive attitudes and 2.4% exhibited negative attitudes. A significant correlation was observed between knowledge and attitude scores (p-value = 0.000). Gender and marital status were found to influence attitudes, with significant statistical relationships (p-values: gender = 0.000, marital status = 0.004). These results emphasize the importance of improving nursing education in geriatric care and promoting positive attitudes toward caring for older people patients.

Practical implications

The study highlights the need for ongoing professional development to enhance patient outcomes and the quality of care for the older people population. Further longitudinal research and comparative analyses are recommended to deepen the understanding of knowledge and attitudes across various health-care settings.

Originality/value

The study revealed a significant correlation between nursing practitioners’ knowledge and attitudes toward geriatric care, with gender and marital status significantly influencing attitudes, while age did not. This underscores the need for further research.
Assessing the effect of tissue and fire‐response traits on plant growth rates post‐disturbance in eastern Australia
Authors: Ford Ashleigh M. , Grootemaat Saskia , Towers Isaac , Maslen Ben , Cornwell Will K. , Ooi Mark K. J. , Falster Daniel S.
Published: November 2024

Variation in plant growth strategies facilitate species' coexistence in a community. Some functional traits are predicted to influence the growth rates of developing individuals by capturing trade‐offs in resource allocation. However, despite being used broadly in community ecology, the assumed generality and predictability of trait‐growth relationships lack widespread empirical testing.

The megafires of 2019–2020 burned extensive areas throughout New South Wales and were followed by high rainfall, causing the large‐scale synchronous regeneration of fire‐adapted species. We took advantage of this mass disturbance event to test hypothesised relationships between functional traits and growth across six spatially distributed sclerophyllous systems throughout NSW, in which sampled vegetation was part of the same growth cohort.

We investigated whether resprouting as a trait facilitated faster initial height growth compared to reseeding and, in reseeding species, tested whether the effects of four structural functional traits—stem specific density (SSD), leaf nitrogen per area, standardised stem diameter and specific leaf area (SLA)—on height growth rates followed directions predicted by theory.

Resprouters grew an average of 25.92 cm year−1 more than reseeders at 14–15 months post‐fire, indicating an advantage in light capture over reseeding species in the period soon after fire. Of the four structural functional traits tested, SSD and leaf nitrogen per area displayed evidence of relationships with height growth rate, while standardised stem diameter and SLA had no evidence of an effect. These relationships were consistent across sites.

Our results indicate that (i) ontogenetic variation in growth rates should be integrated into the fast‐slow growth economics spectrum and that (ii) while some functional traits predict height growth, this is not a guarantee for all traits.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Substitute Yeast Extract While Maintaining Performance: Showcase Amorpha‐4,11‐Diene Production
Authors: Castillo‐Saldarriaga Carlos , Santos Christine N. S. , Sarria Stephen , Ajikumar Parayil K. , Takors Ralf
Published: November 2024

Yeast extract (YE) is a complex nutritional source associated with high performance on microbial production processes. However, its inherent compositional variability challenges its scalability. While prior efforts have focused on growth‐associated products, the dynamics of growth‐uncoupled production, which leads to higher production rates and conversion yields, still need to be explored. This production scenario is common in large‐scale applications. This study presents a systematic approach to replace YE for the production of the terpene amorpha‐4,11‐diene in Escherichia coli. Sequential processing was successfully applied to identify glutamic acid, alanine, leucine, valine, isoleucine and glycine as the key amino acids (AAs) under slow‐growth conditions. Thoroughly applying biomass retention as part of sequential processing increased production capacity by 45% using these AAs instead of YE. Further studies, including flux balance analyses, targeted pyruvate as the common AA precursor. The optimized fed‐batch process feeding pyruvate with 0.09 gPyr h−1 enhanced amorpha‐4,11‐diene production by 37%, although adding only 1% carbon via pyruvate. Flux balance analysis revealed the criteria for optimum pyruvate feeding, for example, to prevent succinate secretion and maintain the NADH/NAD+ balance. These findings illustrate the interplay between media composition and metabolic activity and provide a successful guideline for identifying lean, best‐performing media for industrial applications.
Understanding the tolerance of halophilic archaea to stress landscapes
Authors: Matarredona Laura , Zafrilla Basilio , Camacho Mónica , Bonete María‐José , Esclapez Julia
Published: November 2024

Haloarchaea, known for their resilience to environmental fluctuations, require a minimum salt concentration of 10% (w/v) for growth and can survive up to 35% (w/v) salinity. In biotechnology, these halophiles have diverse industrial applications. This study investigates the tolerance responses of nine haloarchaea: Haloferax mediterranei, Haloferax volcanii, Haloferax gibbonsii, Halorubrum californiense, Halorubrum litoreum, Natrinema pellirubrum, Natrinema altunense, Haloterrigena thermotolerans and Haloarcula sinaiiensis, under various stressful conditions. All these archaea demonstrated the ability to thrive in the presence of toxic metals such as chromium, nickel, cobalt and arsenic, and their tolerance to significantly elevated lithium concentrations in the medium was remarkable. Among the studied haloarchaea, Hfx. mediterranei exhibited superior resilience, particularly against lithium, with an impressive minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of up to 4 M LiCl, even replacing NaCl entirely. Haloferax species showed specificity for conditions with maximal growth rates, while Htg. thermotolerans and Nnm. altunense displayed high resilience without losing growth throughout the ranges, although these were generally low. ICP‐MS results highlighted the impressive intracellular lithium accumulation in Nnm. pellirubrum, emphasizing its potential significance in bioremediation. This research highlights a new characteristic of haloarchaea, their tolerance to high lithium concentrations and the potential for new applications in extreme industrial processes and bioremediation.
Analysis of chemical and morphological properties of root dentine treated with a single multifunctional endodontic irrigant solution
Authors: de Castro‐Vasconcelos Gustavo A. , de Assis Helena C. , Ramirez Iago , Teodosio Leonardo M. , Jacob Gabrielle , Roperto Renato , Sousa‐Neto Manoel D. , Mazzi‐Chaves Jardel F. , Lopes‐Olhê Fabiane C.
Published: November 2024

The aim was to evaluate the chemical, morphological aspects and microhardness of root dentin after treatment with Triton™ solution. Twenty blocks of root dentin were distributed in two groups (n = 10): Control (C) (2.5% NaOCl+17% EDTA+2.5% NaOCl) and Triton™ solution (T). Morphological analysis was performed before and after treatments with confocal laser microscopy. Chemical composition and microhardness were analysed after the treatments using Raman spectroscopy and Knoop microhardness. Results were submitted to Student's t‐test and Mann–Whitney test (p < 0.05). The C group had greater tubule number, area and perimeter (p < 0.001), besides a regular surface, while T showed an irregular surface with cracks and erosions, lower organic content intensity (p < 0.001) and higher inorganic/organic ratio (p = 0.003) than C, which had higher microhardness than T (p = 0.003). Triton™ exposed a lower number, area and perimeter of dentinal tubules, with cracks and erosions in root dentin. It also showed significant chemical alterations in the organic content, reducing it, resulting in lower microhardness.
Toxicokinetic modelling of the synthetic cannabinoid 5F‐MDMB‐P7AICA and its main metabolite in pigs following pulmonary administration
Authors: Doerr Adrian A. , Dings Christiane , Zaher Omar , Nordmeier Frederike , Walle Nadja , Laschke Matthias W. , Menger Michael D. , Schmidt Peter H. , Meyer Markus R. , Lehr Thorsten , Schaefer Nadine
Published: November 2024

Aims

Since their emergence on the drug market, synthetic cannabinoids (SC) are still gaining increasing importance in forensic toxicology. The representatives of the so‐called new psychoactive substances have in common that they have not undergone preclinical safety studies. Hence, knowledge on toxicokinetic (TK) data is sparse. As an alternative to human studies not being allowed for ethical reasons, a sophisticated pig model was applied in the present study to assess the TK of the SC 5F‐MDMB‐P7AICA.

Methods

Pigs pulmonarily received 5F‐MDMB‐P7AICA via an ultrasonic nebulizer. The parent compound and its main metabolite 5F‐MDMB‐P7AICA dimethyl butanoic acid were determined in serum and whole blood using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Obtained data was analysed by population (pop) TK modelling. The final pop TK model parameters for pigs were upscaled via allometric scaling techniques for the prediction of human exposure.

Results

The serum concentration–time profiles of the parent and the pop TK analysis revealed that a 4‐compartment model best describes the TK data. The administration of the aerosol into the lung compartment follows zero‐order kinetics. A transit compartment was further included to accurately describe the time delay between detection of the parent and the metabolite. Despite the different structure, TK parameters were found to be comparable to other examined SC.

Conclusion

The predictions of human SC exposure suggest that multiple administration of 5F‐MDMB‐P7AICA substantially enhances the window of detection. The simulations pose extrapolation of the data used for model development with respect to dose linearity and allometric scaling to humans.
Micropapillary structure: A natural tumor collective invasion model with enhanced stem‐like properties
Authors: Li Sisi , Gao Shuangshu , Qin Ling , Ding Caixia , Qu Jinghui , Cui Yifei , Qiang Lixia , Yin Shengjie , Zheng Xiaoyu , Meng Hongxue
Published: November 2024

Cancer stem cells aggregate to form clusters, which have enhanced stem‐like properties and metastasis potential. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the formation of cancer stem cell cluster‐like structures with acquisition of stronger invasion and metastasis abilities remain unclear. Micropapillary carcinoma (MPC) is a subpopulation of small, merulioid, inverted, nonfibrous vascular clusters floating in the stroma present in a range of solid malignant tumors and characterized by frequent vascular/lymphatic vessel invasion and lymph node metastasis. Our results showed that these cell clusters exhibit a stem cell phenotype, supporting the premise that MPC may serve as a promising solid tumor model for studying invasion and metastasis of cancer stem cell clusters. In this review, we discuss the latest advances in MPC research and targeted therapy, focusing on analysis of their stem‐like characteristics, mapping their multiomics characteristics, and elucidating the vascular and immune microenvironment of MPC. The existing MPC organoid model was employed to explore potential breakthroughs in targeted therapy and immunotherapy for cancer stem cell clusters.
One or two? Comparison of the cardiorenal effects between combination therapy and monotherapy with SGLT2i or GLP1RA
Authors: Zhang Mengqing , Lin Chu , Cai Xiaoling , Jiao Ruoyang , Bai Shuzhen , Li Zonglin , Lv Fang , Yang Wenjia , Liu Geling , Yang Xiaolin , Ji Linong
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the cardiorenal effect of combining sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RA) when compared with monotherapy of either agent in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods

PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Clinicaltrial.gov were systematically searched from inception to June 2024. Eligible studies included randomised controlled trials and observational studies assessing that compared with SGLT2i or GLP‐1RA monotherapy, the risk of cardiorenal outcomes in patients with T2D who treated with combination therapy. Pooled relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed in random‐effects model.

Results

In all, five RCTs, 10 post hoc analyses and one observational study were included. The reduced risk of the composite cardiovascular outcome was observed in patients receiving combination therapy of SGLT2i and GLP‐1RA when compared with SGLT2i monotherapy (RR = 0.57, 95% CI 0.38–0.86, p = 0.008) or GLP‐1RA monotherapy (RR = 0.77, 95% CI 0.65–0.91, p = 0.002). Likewise, the composite renal adverse events were less frequent in patients receiving combination therapy of SGLT2i and GLP‐1RA when compared with SGLT2i monotherapy (RR = 0.69, 95% CI 0.59–0.82, p < 0.001) or GLP‐1RA monotherapy (RR = 0.66, 95% CI 0.53–0.83, p < 0.001). Compared with GLP‐1RA monotherapy, the combination therapy of SGLT2i and GLP‐1RA was associated with lower risks of heart failure–related outcomes (RR = 0.63, 95% CI 0.51–0.77, p < 0.001) and all‐cause mortality (RR = 0.66, 95% CI 0.50–0.88, p = 0.004) in patients with T2D.

Conclusion

The cardiorenal benefits might be magnified with the combination therapy of SGLT2i and GLP‐1RA when compared with monotherapy of either agent. Further investigations are needed to validate the findings.
Entrepreneurship as strategic network creation: A relational practices perspective
Authors: Sydow Jörg , Schmidt Thomas
Published: November 2024

Often entrepreneurship may be more about the strategic creation of an interorganizational network than of an organization. Based on a revelatory case study from a rather traditional industry in a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, we argue that once startups replace organization creation by means of network creation they are confronted with a series of tensions that have to be managed in the unfolding process. We analyze how tensions at the beginning of the entrepreneurial journey – being unknown in the field, lacking an elaborated organization, and facing competition – are tackled under these circumstances with relational practices. Our findings enrich the body of research on entrepreneurship and interorganizational networks by unearthing those relational practices that help – across analytical levels and time – to address legitimacy, complexity, and reciprocity challenges.
Phenotype–genotype correlation in X‐linked Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease: A French cohort study
Authors: Barbat du Closel Luce , Bonello‐Palot Nathalie , Delmont Emilien , Péréon Yann , Echaniz‐Laguna Andoni , Camdessanché Jean Philippe , Pakleza Aleksandra Nadaj , Chanson Jean‐Baptiste , Frachet Simon , Magy Laurent , Cassereau Julien , Cintas Pascal , Choumert Ariane , Devic Perrine , Louis Sarah Léonard , Tard Céline , Solé Guilhem , Salort‐Campana Emmanuelle , Bouhour Françoise , Latour Philippe , Stojkovic Tanya , Attarian Shahram
Published: November 2024

Background and purpose

X‐linked Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth disease type 1 (CMTX1) ranks as the second most prevalent hereditary neuropathy and, currently, has no definitive cure. Emerging preclinical trials offer hope for potential clinical studies in the near future. While it is widely accepted that experimental groups in these trials should be balanced for age and gender, there is a current shortfall in data regarding phenotype–genotype correlations. Our aim was to provide a more detailed understanding of these correlations to facilitate the formation of well‐matched patient groups in upcoming clinical trials.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective evaluation of CMTX1 patients from 13 designated reference centers in France. Data on genetics, clinical features, and nerve conduction were systematically gathered.

Results

We analyzed the genotype–phenotype correlations in 275 CMTX1 patients belonging to 162 families and carrying 87 distinct variants. Patients with variants affecting the transmembrane domains demonstrated significantly greater severity, as evidenced by a Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth Examination Score of 10.5, compared to 7.1 for those with intracellular domain variants and 8.7 for extracellular domain variants (p < 0.000). These patients also experienced an earlier age of onset, showed slower ulnar nerve conduction velocities and had more substantial loss of motor amplitude.

Conclusions

This study confirms the presence of a correlation between the mutated protein domain and the clinical phenotype. Patients with a variant in the transmembrane domains demonstrated a more severe clinical and electrophysiological profile. Consequently, the genotype could play a prognostic role in addition to its diagnostic role, and it will be essential to consider this in future clinical trials.
Association of left atrial function with vascular brain injury: The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities study
Authors: Wang Wendy , Lutsey Pamela L. , Inciardi Riccardo M. , Reyes Jorge L. , Mosley Thomas H. , Johansen Michelle C. , Gottesman Rebecca F. , Alonso Alvaro , Jack Clifford R. , Solomon Scott D. , Shah Amil M. , Wasserman Bruce A. , Chen Lin Yee
Published: November 2024

Background and purpose

Lower left atrial (LA) function is associated with higher dementia risk and may be mechanistically linked through vascular brain injury, an established correlate for higher dementia risk. Using data from the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities study, we assessed the cross‐sectional association between LA function and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) markers of vascular brain injury.

Methods

We included 1488 participants who were free of prevalent dementia, stroke, or atrial fibrillation and who underwent a two‐dimensional echocardiogram and brain MRI in 2011–2013 (mean [± standard deviation] age 76 [± 5] years, 60% female, 27% Black). LA function measures (reservoir, conduit, contractile strain) were assessed in quartiles. Brain MRI measures included cerebral microbleeds, brain infarcts, and white matter hyperintensity (WMH) volume. Logistic regression was used for dichotomous outcomes. Linear regression was used for WMH volume.

Results

Overall, 343 (23%) and 344 participants (23%) had ≥1 cerebral microbleed or brain infarct. After multivariable adjustments, the lowest LA reservoir and conduit strain quartiles (vs. highest quartile) were associated with higher odds of the presence of ≥1 cerebral microbleed (odds ratios [95% confidence intervals] 1.78 [1.42–2.22] and 1.52 [1.22–1.90]). Compared to the highest quartile, participants in the lowest LA conduit strain quartile had 1.51 (95% confidence interval 1.22–1.88) times higher odds of having ≥1 brain infarct. Lower LA contractile strain was associated with lower odds of brain infarcts. No association with WMH volume was noted.

Conclusions

We found that LA reservoir and conduit strain were associated with cerebral microbleeds and brain infarcts. Lower LA function may be linked to dementia risk via vascular brain injury. Prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Restoring ecosystems in the southeastern United States by interseeding alfalfa in existing cool‐season grass pastures
Authors: Nave Renata La Guardia , de Almeida Otávio Goulart , Tucker Jennifer , Xiong Victoria
Published: November 2024

The introduction of legumes such as alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) into forage systems is a sustainable alternative to pasture restoration by adding biologically fixed N and contributing to the biodiversity of the system. Also, crabgrass (Digitaria sanguinalis L.; [CG]) is known as a grass weed but has the potential to maintain forage mass (FM) during the summer contributing to restoration. Different experiments were carried out in Spring Hill, TN for 2 years each in tall fescue (Schedonorus arundinaceus [Schreb.] Dumort; [TF]) or orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L. [OG]), with the addition of alfalfa and CG. For each grass sward, two separate pastures were selected, and treatments were established in different years, totaling four different experiments [two Establishments (EST 1 and EST 2) for TF and OG]. The treatments imposed were (1) control (C), (2) synthetic N fertilization (SNF), (3) fall seeding of alfalfa (FA), (4) spring seeding of alfalfa (SA), (5) fall seeding of alfalfa + CG (FA + CG) and (6) spring seeding of alfalfa + CG (SA + CG). Each experiment had four replications totaling 24 plots each, and measurements included botanical composition and FM. In the TF pastures, there was no presence of alfalfa documented (0%), and little CG was detected, due to its high competitiveness; meanwhile, FM was only increased when N fertilization was used in EST 2, 3391 kg DM/ha. The average FM for all treatments in EST 1 was 2476 kg DM/ha. The OG pastures showed the presence of both alfalfa and CG in their botanical composition, with N fertilization also showing higher FM (EST 1, 2705 kg DM/ha; EST 2, 2390 kg DM/ha). Thus, alfalfa and CG have the potential to improve OG swards, but more research is needed to assess different establishment methods of alfalfa into TF swards.
Helicobacter pylori Eradication Therapy and the Risk of Colorectal Cancer: A Population‐Based Nationwide Cohort Study in Sweden
Authors: Liu Qing , Sadr‐Azodi Omid , Engstrand Lars , Fall Katja , Brusselaers Nele
Published: November 2024

Background

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is an established gastric carcinogen, also associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Therefore, we suspected that H. pylori eradication lowers the risk of colorectal cancer.

Material and Methods

We assessed if H. pylori eradication therapy is associated with a reduced risk of colorectal adenocarcinoma in a population‐based nationwide cohort study. This study included all Swedish adults with at least one recorded H. pylori eradication episode between July 2005 and December 2012, based on the high‐quality Swedish health registries. Colorectal adenocarcinoma risks were compared to the Swedish background population, presented as standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), accounting for age, sex, calendar period, tumor location (left or right sided), stage, and number of eradication episodes, from 1 year after eradication and onward.

Results

Among 80,381 individuals receiving H. pylori eradication therapy (average follow‐up 4.1 years), 282 were diagnosed with colorectal cancer (97.2% adenocarcinoma). Overall, H. pylori eradication was associated with an elevated risk of colorectal adenocarcinoma (SIR 1.27, 95% CI: 1.12–1.43). The colorectal adenocarcinoma risk was increased 1–2 years after eradication (SIR 1.42, 95% CI: 1.17–1.72), then decreased 2–4 years (SIR 0.80, 95% CI: 0.65–0.98) and 4–6 years (SIR 0.76, 95% CI: 0.57–0.99), yet not ≥ 6 years (SIR 1.36, 95% CI: 0.78–2.21) after eradication compared to the general population. Overall, right‐sided (SIR 1.47, 95% CI: 1.21–1.76) and left‐sided (SIR 1.35, 95% CI: 1.09–1.67) colon adenocarcinomas risks were higher among eradicated individuals than the general population.

Conclusion

H. pylori eradication was not associated with a clear and consistent reduction of colorectal cancer in our Swedish cohort.
How Technical Advances Changed the Concept of Antibodies
Authors: Swiatczak Bartlomiej , Greslehner Gregor P. , Zach Martin
Published: November 2024

Shaped by advances in scientific instrumentation and experimental techniques, the concept of antibody has undergone profound transformations throughout the history of immunology. Serological assays, separation techniques, protein fragmentation techniques, molecular biology techniques, and other methodological innovations did not only serve to produce data on the structure and function of these molecules but, by framing antibodies into a unique facet of experimental investigation, were effectively redefining and reconceptualizing these molecules for the scientific community. The characteristics and properties of antibodies observed in experimental settings were often directly extrapolated to their presumed nature in living organisms, as exemplified by the literal identification of antibodies with a gamma electrophoretic fraction in the 1930s. Stemming from parallel advances in related fields such as molecular biology and biochemistry, the introduction of novel techniques was driving shifts in the field of immunology, establishing novel frameworks of theoretical conceptualization and understanding. Technological innovation in experimental techniques continues to shape our view of these molecules, driving progress in both basic immunology and therapeutic applications.
Evaluating Drought Tolerance and Yield Stability of Sorghum Genotypes for Sustainable Agriculture in Sohag, Egypt
Authors: Said Alaa A. , Abou‐Elwafa Salah F. , Mustafa Abdel‐Rahman A. , Ridwan Ahmed R. M. , Siddiq Mohamed A. , Moursy Ali R. A. , AbdelRahman Mohamed A. E. , Mobarak Nafisa A. M.
Published: November 2024

The major problem in the cultivation of sorghum in the Egyptian agricultural system includes arid climate and water shortage. Thus, the present study was undertaken to investigate the effect of drought conditions on the productivity of 21 different sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) genotypes at Sohag, Egypt. A set of drought tolerance metrics employed in the present study were Tolerance Index (TOL); Mean Production (MP); Sensitivity to Drought Index (SSI); Stress Tolerance Index (STI); Geometric mean performance (GMP) and Harmonic mean of yield (HARM). A field‐controlled experiment was conducted on the two growth seasons (2021 and 2022) concerning the impact of different drought levels on (ET0 = 0.8, 0.6 and 0.4) Grain Yields (GY) and Water Use Efficiency (WUE) for the various studied sorghum genotypes. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was also conducted on the obtained data of the different yield parameters with the aim of identifying the most effective tolerance indices related to the different genotypes of sorghum under both conditions, optimal and stressed. Drought tolerance varies among different sorghum varieties, which, by their genetic and physiological nature, possess efficient stomatal regulation and deep‐rooted systems, enhancing water conservation and physiological functions and hence higher WUE. These are mainly influenced by environmental conditions, such as soil type and moisture levels in the region of Sohag, where such genotypes may exhibit different performances regarding drought stress. It was observed that Giza‐15 and Hybrid Sh1 were among the high performers under well‐irrigated conditions, and L38 was outstanding during a severe drought in terms of WUE. Therefore, proper genotype selection depends on the irrigation strategy. Hence, the Sohag region presents a good opportunity for further improvement of drought tolerance through designed selection and hybridization activities in sorghum breeders, and this contributes to climate‐resilient cultivars by addressing the present agricultural challenges and food security for the present world. Emphasis will be placed by breeders on the development of arid‐condition‐adapted genotypes and the development of models that can be applied within comparable climates to boost productivity and sustainability for those farmers dependent on this vital crop.
FOSL2 activates TGF‐β1‐mediated GLUT1/mTOR signaling to promote diabetic kidney disease
Authors: He Xuelin , Xia Min , Ying Guanghui , He Qien , Chen Zhaogui , Liu Li , Zhang Qiao , Cai Jianxin
Published: November 2024

Aims/Introduction

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is a major cause of kidney failure. FOS‐like antigen 2 (FOSL2) has been revealed to be increased in kidney biopsies of patients with lupus nephritis, while its association with DKD remains unsolved. This study aimed to characterize the role of FOSL2 in DKD and its mechanism.

Method

The kidney tissues of DKD mice induced by STZ and a high‐fat diet were subjected to PAS and Masson's staining. Glomerular mesangial cells (MCs) were treated with high glucose (HG) or normal glucose (NG). CCK‐8 and EdU assays were performed to detect cell proliferation, and immunoblotting was conducted to analyze ECM deposition. ChIP‐qPCR was performed on MCs to detect the binding of FOSL2 on the TGF‐β1 promoter and a dual‐luciferase assay to detect the impact of FOSL2 on the transcription of the TGF‐β1 promoter.

Results

FOSL2 was elevated in the kidney tissues of DKD mice. Knockdown of FOSL2 reduced the mRNA expression of TGF‐β1 to decrease the protein expression of GLUT1 and mTOR in the kidney tissues of DKD mice, and TGF‐β1 reversed the effects caused by knockdown of FOSL2. The mTOR inhibitor Rapamycin alleviated kidney injury in the presence of FOSL2. Knockdown of FOSL2 inhibited the proliferation and improved ECM deposition of MCs, which were reversed by TGF‐β1. Rapamycin and GLUT1 inhibitor BAY‐876 reversed the promotion effect of FOSL2 on the proliferation of NG‐MCs/HG‐MCs and improved ECM deposition of MCs.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrated that FOSL2 accentuates DKD in mice by increasing TGF‐β1‐induced GLUT1/mTOR signaling.
Enhanced renoprotective effects of combined glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists and sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors in type 2 diabetes mellitus: Real‐world evidence
Authors: Jhu Jian‐Yu , Fang Yu‐Wei , Huang Chung‐Yen , Liou Hung‐Hsiang , Chen Mon‐Ting , Tsai Ming‐Hsien
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Developing a more effective treatment for the global impact of diabetic kidney disease is crucial. This study examined the renoprotective effects of combining glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1 RA) with sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) compared to SGLT2is alone in type 2 diabetes (DM).

Materials and Methods

This retrospective cohort study used data from the TriNetX Global Collaborative Network. Type 2 DM patients with estimated glomerular filtration rates ≥60 mL/min/1.73 m2 who used GLP‐1 RA or SGLT2i between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2023. Propensity score matching balanced baseline characteristics, resulting in 71,186 patients in each group (combined GLP‐1 RA and SGLT2i therapy vs SGLT2i alone). Cox regression model was adopted to compare outcomes over a 5‐year period, including major adverse kidney events (MAKE), acute kidney injury (AKI), end‐stage kidney disease (ESKD), and all‐cause mortality.

Results

After matching, the average age was 57.1 ± 10.8 years for the GLP‐1 RA plus SGLT2i group and 57.2 ± 11.7 years for the SGLT2i‐only group. The GLP‐1 RA plus SGLT2i group had significantly lower risk of MAKE (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.73, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.69–0.77), AKI (HR: 0.82, 95% C0I: 0.77–0.87), ESKD (HR: 0.61, 95% CI: 0.47–0.78), and all‐cause mortality (HR: 0.54, 95% CI: 0.50–0.58) compared to the SGLT2i‐only group. Moreover, subgroup analyses showed consistent benefits across different subgroups.

Conclusions

Dual therapy with GLP‐1 RA and SGLT2i is supported to enhance renal outcomes and address the growing burden of diabetic kidney disease.
Chemical Characterization, Cell‐Based Safety, and Antioxidant Assessments of Lactobacillus helveticus Postbiotics and Their Potential Antibacterial Effects and Mode of Action Against Food‐Borne Multidrug‐Resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coliO157:H7
Authors: Abbasi Amin , Hashemi Mohammad , Pourjafar Hadi , Hosseini Seyede Marzieh , Kafil Hossein Samadi , Rad Aziz Homayouni , Taghizadeh Mansoureh , Hosseini Hedayat
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to determine the chemical profile, cell‐based safety, antioxidant properties, antibacterial effect, and mode of action of Lactobacillus helveticus postbiotics (LHPs) against Escherichia coli O157:H7 and multidrug‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus. LHPs exhibited significant radical scavenging activity (83.59% ± 4.21% for Hydroxyl RSA; 98.33% ± 2.47% for DPPH; and 21.67% ± 2.79% for linoleic acid peroxidation inhibitory), and antibacterial action toward MDR S. aureus (inhibition zone (IZ): 32.76 mm; minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC): 36.00 μg/mL; minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC): 45.00 μg/mL; minimal effective concentration (MEC): 25 mg/mL for whole milk, and 30 mg/mL for ground meat) and E. coli O157:H7 (IZ: 25.63 mm; MIC: 60.00 μg/mL; MBC: 90.00 μg/mL: MEC: 35 mg/mL for whole milk, and 45 mg/mL for ground meat) (p < 0.05). As an antimicrobial mode of action, significant alterations in the bacterial surface charge, membrane integrity, biofilm generation, auto‐aggregation ability, and swimming/sliding motility, along with the subsequent intracellular content leakage from MDR S. aureus and E. coli O157:H7, were detected after treatment with LHPs (p < 0.05). LHPs exerted a promoting influence on MV‐4‐11 macrophage cell viability, leading to a considerable increase in the functions of SOD and GSH‐Px in these cells. As well, LHPs caused a reduction in the production of NO and a drop in ROS levels (p < 0.05). Therefore, LHPs are a promising approach against MDR S. aureus and E. coli O157:H7 proliferations and have the capacity to be used in the food sector to combat safety issues caused by pathogenic microbes.
PANoptosis‐related genes: Molecular insights into immune dysregulation in ulcerative colitis
Authors: Ji Yuxiao , Li Pengchong , Ning Tingting , Yang Deyi , Shi Haiyun , Dong Xueyu , Zhu Shengtao , Li Peng , Zhang Shutian
Published: November 2024

Background and Aim

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory disease driven by immune dysregulation. PANoptosis, a novel form of programmed cell death, has been implicated in inflammatory diseases, but its specific role in UC remains unclear. This study aimed to identify PANoptosis‐related genes (PRGs) that may contribute to immune dysregulation in UC.

Methods

Using bioinformatics analysis of the GEO databases, we identified seven hub PRGs. Based on these genes, we developed a predictive model to differentiate UC patients from healthy controls, and evaluated its diagnostic performance using ROC curve analysis. We further conducted functional enrichment, GSVA, and immune infiltration analyses. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to validate the expression of hub genes in UC patients.

Results

The prediction model, based on the seven hub genes, exhibited diagnostic ability in discriminating UC patients from controls. Furthermore, these hub PRGs were found to be associated with immune cells, including dendritic cells, NK cells, macrophages, regulatory T cells (Tregs), and CD8+ T cells. They were also linked to key signaling pathways implicated in UC pathogenesis, such as IFNγ, TNFα, IL6‐and JAK‐STAT3, as well as hypoxia and apoptosis. Immunohistochemistry analysis validated the expression levels of hub PRGs in UC patients using paraffin sections of intestinal biopsy specimens.

Conclusions

This study identified PANoptosis‐related genes with potential diagnostic value for UC and suggest that PANoptosis may contribute to the pathogenesis of UC by regulating specific immune cells and interacting with key signaling pathways. This highlights the potential importance of PANoptosis‐related genes as therapeutic targets in UC management.