bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Critical Role of Regulatory T Cells in Immune Tolerance and Rejection Following Liver Transplantation: Interactions With the Gut Microbiome
Authors: Lee Soon Kyu , Kwon Jung Hyun , Jang Jeong Won , Bae Si Hyun , Yoon Seung Kew , Jung Eun Sun , Choi Jong Young
Published: October 2024

Liver transplantation (LT) is the ultimate treatment for patients with end-stage liver disease or early hepatocellular carcinoma. In the context of LT, because of the unique immunological characteristics of human liver allograft, 5%–20% of selected LT recipients can achieve operational tolerance. Nonetheless, there remains a risk of rejection in LT patients. Maintaining immune homeostasis is thus crucial for improving clinical outcomes in these patients. In mechanism, several immune cells, including dendritic cells, Kupffer cells, myeloid-derived suppressor cells, hepatic stellate cells, regulatory B cells, and CD4+ regulatory T cells (Treg), contribute to achieving tolerance following LT. In terms of Treg, it plays a role in successfully minimizing immunosuppression or achieving tolerance post-LT while also reducing the risk of rejection. Furthermore, the gut microbiome modulates systemic immune functions along the gut–liver axis. Recent studies have explored changes in the microbiome and its metabolites under various conditions, including post-LT, acute rejection, and tolerance. Certain functional microbiomes and metabolites exhibit immunomodulatory functions, such as the augmentation of Treg, influencing immune homeostasis. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms of tolerance in LT, the role of Treg in tolerance and rejection, as well as their interactions with gut microbiome, is vital for the management of LT patients.
Haploidy-linked cell proliferation defects limit larval growth in zebrafish
Authors: Yaguchi Kan , Saito Daiki , Menon Triveni , Matsura Akira , Hosono Miyu , Mizutani Takeomi , Kotani Tomoya , Nair Sreelaja , Uehara Ryota
Published: October 2024

Haploid larvae in non-mammalian vertebrates are lethal, with characteristic organ growth retardation collectively called ‘haploid syndrome’. In contrast to mammals, whose haploid intolerance is attributed to imprinting misregulation, the cellular principle of haploidy-linked defects in non-mammalian vertebrates remains unknown. Here, we investigated cellular defects that disrupt the ontogeny of gynogenetic haploid zebrafish larvae. Unlike diploid control larvae, haploid larvae manifested unscheduled cell death at the organogenesis stage, attributed to haploidy-linked p53 upregulation. Moreover, we found that haploid larvae specifically suffered the gradual aggravation of mitotic spindle monopolarization during 1–3 days post-fertilization, causing spindle assembly checkpoint-mediated mitotic arrest throughout the entire body. High-resolution imaging revealed that this mitotic defect accompanied the haploidy-linked centrosome loss occurring concomitantly with the gradual decrease in larval cell size. Either resolution of mitotic arrest or depletion of p53 partially improved organ growth in haploid larvae. Based on these results, we propose that haploidy-linked mitotic defects and cell death are parts of critical cellular causes shared among vertebrates that limit the larval growth in the haploid state, contributing to an evolutionary constraint on allowable ploidy status in the vertebrate life cycle.
Synthesis of engineering surfaces using representative elementary patterns of roughness
Authors: Borodich Feodor M. , Pepelyshev Andrey
Published: October 2024

Synthesis of surface roughness is a long-standing problem that has many practical applications. Here novel algorithms for the synthesis of rough surfaces at nano/micro scales are proposed. The algorithms are based on introduction and development of two new concepts, namely the representative elementary pattern of roughness (REPR) and the statistically representative pattern of surface roughness (SRPSR). From the statistical point of view, the REPR is the smallest interval (or area) over which a measurement can be made that represents statistically the whole surface. However, synthesis of surfaces by the direct use of the REPR may cause some artificial singularities. To avoid this drawback and to incorporate the synthetic surface in a numerical scheme of the contact solver, one needs to extend the REPR to a non-singular SRPSR that satisfies additional conditions of the scheme used. Our findings indicate that specific time-series analysis techniques, such as the moving window approach, can be effectively utilized to extract the REPR from experimental data. The representativeness may be justified by the use of the Kolmogorov–Smirnov statistic. Extraction of REPRs of surfaces and constructions of appropriate SRPSRs are demonstrated on experimental data obtained by stylus and atomic-force microscopy at micro and atomic/nano scales, respectively.
Conservation of rib skeleton regionalization in the homoplastic evolution of the snake-like body form in squamates
Authors: Hillan Emily J. , Roberts Lucy E. , Criswell Katharine E. , Head Jason J.
Published: October 2024

Squamates have independently evolved an elongate, limb-reduced body form numerous times. This transition has been proposed to involve either changes to regulatory gene expression or downstream modification of target enhancers to produce a homogeneous, deregionalized axial skeleton. Analysis of vertebral morphology has suggested that regionalization is maintained in snake-like body forms, but morphological variation in the other primary component of the axial skeleton, the dorsal ribs, has not been previously examined. We quantified rib morphology along the anterior–posterior axis in limbed and snake-like squamates to test different regionalization models. We find that the relative position of regional boundaries remains consistent across taxa of differing body types, including in the homoplastic evolution of snake-like body forms. The consistent retention of regional boundaries in this primaxial domain is uncorrelated with more plastic abaxial region markers. Rather than loss of regions, rib shape at the anterior and posterior of the axis converges on those in the middle, resulting in axial regions being distinguishable by allometric shape changes rather than by discrete morphologies. This complexity challenges notions of deregionalization, revealing a nuanced evolutionary history shaped by shared functions.
Adaptive efficiency of information processing in immune-pathogen co-evolution
Authors: Bellamy Quinn N , Montague Zachary , Peliti Luca , Nourmohammad Armita
Published: October 2024

Organisms have evolved immune systems that can counter pathogenic threats. The adaptive immune system in vertebrates consists of a diverse repertoire of immune receptors that can dynamically reorganize to specifically target the ever-changing pathogenic landscape. Pathogens in return evolve to escape the immune challenge, forming an co-evolutionary arms race. We introduce a formalism to characterize out-of-equilibrium interactions in co-evolutionary processes. We show that the rates of information exchange and entropy production can distinguish the leader from the follower in an evolutionary arms races. Lastly, we introduce co-evolutionary efficiency as a metric to quantify each population’s ability to exploit information in response to the other. Our formalism provides insights into the conditions necessary for stable co-evolution and establishes bounds on the limits of information exchange and adaptation in co-evolving systems.
Informal caregiving following stroke: a qualitative exploration of carer self-identification, care-related language and support experiences
Authors: Harcourt Bethany Jade , Bowen Audrey , Brown Richard J
Published: October 2024

Background and objectives: Following stroke, people often receive informal care from friends and family. Some carers adopt the role quickly whereas others find it more difficult to see themselves as a carer and do not access relevant support. This project sought to understand the process of how and when informal carers start to see themselves as such, as well as their preferred terminology and experiences of support in this role. Methods: Qualitative semi-structured interviews with eighteen UK adults who had provided care or support to a friend or family member after a stroke. Data were analysed thematically using a template analysis approach. PCPI collaboration, through a formed carer advisory group, enhanced the study methodology. Results: Five main themes were developed: 1) Adopting and adjusting to the care role, 2) Accessibility of support, 3) Perceptions of support, 4) Acceptability of care-related language and terminology, 5) Function of care-related language and terminology. Facilitators and barriers to participants self-identifying with the care role were identified. Self-identification was found to commonly occur at four key points along the stroke trajectory. Two main contrasting opinions around the acceptability of care-related terminology were shared. Accessibility of support services and suggestions for future support provision were discussed. Conclusion: Individuals identify as carers at different points and to different extents throughout the stroke trajectory. Various factors influence this process. These findings have implications for the provision of more inclusive and accessible support for informal caregivers of stroke survivors.
Mechanisms of PP2A-Ankle2 dependent nuclear reassembly after mitosis
Authors: Li Jingjing , Wang Xinyue , Jordana Laia , Bonneil Éric , Ginestet Victoria , Ahmed Momina , Bourouh Mohammed , Pascariu Cristina Mirela , Schmeing T. Martin , Thibault Pierre , Archambault Vincent
Published: October 2024

In animals, mitosis involves the breakdown of the nucleus. The reassembly of a nucleus after mitosis requires the reformation of the nuclear envelope around a single mass of chromosomes. This process requires Ankle2 (also known as LEM4 in humans) which interacts with PP2A and promotes the function of Barrier-to-Autointegration Factor (BAF). Upon dephosphorylation, BAF dimers cross-bridge chromosomes and bind lamins and transmembrane proteins of the reassembling nuclear envelope. How Ankle2 functions in mitosis is incompletely understood. Using a combination of approaches inDrosophila, along with structural modeling, we provide several lines of evidence that suggest that Ankle2 is a regulatory subunit of PP2A, explaining how it promotes BAF dephosphorylation. In addition, we discovered that Ankle2 interacts with the endoplasmic reticulum protein Vap33, which is required for Ankle2 localization at the reassembling nuclear envelope during telophase. We identified the interaction sites of PP2A and Vap33 on Ankle2. Through genetic rescue experiments, we show that the Ankle2/PP2A interaction is essential for the function of Ankle2 in nuclear reassembly and that the Ankle2/Vap33 interaction also promotes this process. Our study sheds light on the molecular mechanisms of post-mitotic nuclear reassembly and suggests that the endoplasmic reticulum is not merely a source of membranes in the process, but also provides localized enzymatic activity.
Autism diagnostic aid (ADA) tool for use in adults with intellectual disability: development, face and content validation
Authors: Odiyoor Mahesh , Potts Lorraine , Shatananda Solomon , Oyedokun Abimbola , Jaydeokar Sujeet , Shahzad Saman
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Individuals with intellectual disability have an increased predisposition to other co-morbid physical health conditions, mental illness and neurodevelopmental conditions including autism spectrum condition. There are challenges in diagnosing autism in adults with intellectual disability, and these are often attributes to the complexities in symptoms. The purpose of this paper is to describe the development of the autism diagnostic aid (ADA) tool and face and content validation of its properties.

Design/methodology/approach

The ADA tool was developed following a detailed scoping exercise which included literature reviews, observations and discussion with wider multi-disciplinary team members. A face and content validation after consultation with eight experts who are trained and routinely perform assessments for autism spectrum disorders. The experts also have expertise in working with individuals with intellectual disability.

Findings

The experts agreed that the ADA tool is appropriate to the targeted construct and assessment objectives as a diagnostic aid in the assessment of autism in adults with intellectual disability. They also determined that the content of ADA tool was valid for its use as a diagnostic aid in the diagnosis of adults with intellectual disability.

Research limitations/implications

The ADA tool was considered a valid tool from the expert’s perspective. It was identified to have a good face and content validity. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the ADA is first of its kind tool, developed specifically to aid clinicians with autism assessments in adults with intellectual disability.

Practical implications

This tool could potentially help with timely assessment and help with providing appropriate intervention but would require further exploration.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first of its kind tool for the assessment of autism in adults with intellectual disability.
Entrepreneurial resources and the well-being of women entrepreneurs in the hospitality industry of Uganda
Authors: Najjinda Shamirah , Akileng Godfrey , Bagire Vincent , Turyakira Peter
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to establish whether all the dimensions of entrepreneurial resources matter in fostering the well-being of women entrepreneurs.

Design/methodology/approach

An explanatory research design was used to collect data through a questionnaire survey of 283 women entrepreneurs who benefited from the Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Programme (UWEP). This study used Statistical Package for Social Sciences to analyze the data.

Findings

Study results show that social and human capital matter unlike financial capital in boosting the well-being of women entrepreneurs.

Originality/value

This study provides maiden empirical evidence on contribution of entrepreneurial resource dimensions in fostering the well-being of women entrepreneurs, unlike extant studies that mostly focused on entrepreneurial resources as a global variable. This was done using evidence from Uganda, a developing context where the government and other stakeholders are still grappling with improving the well-being of women as a pathway for social-economic development.
An evaluation model for an optimal decarbonisation process in the built environment
Authors: Sica Francesco , Tajani Francesco , Cerullo Giuseppe
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The goal is to deliver a decision-support framework to both public and private entities engaged in energy retrofit investments in the property market.

Design/methodology/approach

The evaluation algorithm that is being offered takes an innovative approach to financial and economic analysis. Its foundation is a market-driven/cost-driven method, drawing logic from operational research and goal programming.

Findings

The algorithm is tested to a real estate portfolio yielding an optimal asset retrofitting schedule. The ranking list is determined by taking into consideration a variety of parameters, including investment costs and total CO2 emissions from energy retrofit initiatives. The Carbon Risk Real Estate Monitor’s (CRREM) emission targets for 2030 are employed as a reference point in the process of creating a ranking list of the assets that compose the real estate portfolio under examination.

Practical implications

The evaluation algorithm will allow to determine, in a real estate portfolio, a priority list of assets to be enhanced. This is accomplished by taking into account the client’s financial resources, the overall cost of the intervention programmes for each asset, and the effects that each asset would have on the environment and the energy once the suggested retrofit programme is put into place.

Originality/value

The study proposes a methodological approach that seeks to balance the optimisation of energy performance, the reduction of environmental effect, the promotion of social well-being and economic sustainability in the context of managing the current property sector.
Evaluating the impacts of printing operations on indoor air quality in a printing press
Authors: Haruna Umar , Mohammed Mohammed Alhaji , Ajibade Yusuff A.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Building operations and human activities indoors continuously affect air quality, contaminating the air and sometimes exceeding permissible limits which can be health threatening either in the short or long time. This implies a need for strict awareness and compliance with air quality standards, particularly in workplaces prone to air contaminants emissions. This study aims to evaluate printing-related pollutant concentrations and their effects on indoor air quality (IAQ). The study investigated a printing press's total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), particulate matter (PM), carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide emissions.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used mainly an experimental research design supported by physical assessment by identifying the major printing-related pollutants, assessing the existing situation and measuring pollutant concentration levels using literature reviews, walkthrough inspections and experiments, respectively. The measurements were conducted in two scenarios: with and without printing activities, and the results were compared with relevant standards and guidelines.

Findings

The outcomes indicate that TVOC concentration reaches 120 ppb during printing and binding activities, exceeding the 75 ppb acceptable limit based on the time-weighted average. The PM2.5 concentrations reach 49 µg/m3 and PM10 up to 150 µg/m3, exceeding acceptable levels given by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which are 35 µg/m3 and 150 µg/m3 for PM2.5 and PM10, respectively. These high concentrations of TVOC and PM indicate a significant risk to the health of building occupants, particularly those with respiratory conditions. PM concentrations do not exceed permissible levels when no printing or bookbinding occurs, suggesting that printing-related activities can contribute to elevated TVOC and PM concentrations.

Social implications

The social implication of the study lies in its ability to promote awareness among workers and improve their well-being which in turn relates to productivity. The study outcome could also encourage businesses to adopt more responsible environmental and social practices as part of corporate social responsibility practices.

Originality/value

The study's findings, which highlight the need for improved ventilation in printing halls, have the potential to significantly benefit building system designers, facility managers, policymakers and decision-makers. By providing information and theoretical support, the research can help integrate policies that regulate IAQ by reducing pollutant concentrations. This protects workers' health and helps update and enforce stricter IAQ regulations for industrial operations.
Attitude and behavior towards chatbots: case of the beauty care industry
Authors: Dassouli Sara , Satt Harit , Senhaji Nissrine
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to provide a model that expands the technology acceptance model (TAM) by identifying aspects that influence consumers’ attitude and behavioral intention toward chatbots in the beauty care industry.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on an online questionnaire responded by 211 Generation Z individuals from Morocco. Data was collected based on a convenience nonprobability sampling technique, and a partial least squares-structural equation modeling was used to validate the model and test the hypotheses.

Findings

Perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness and subjective norms are significant influencers of the attitude toward chatbot. Perceived risk was not found to be influencing behavioral intention to use chatbot, and personality does not moderate the relationship between perceived ease of use and attitude.

Research limitations/implications

This paper provides insights into the motives behind customers’ attitude and behavior toward chatbots in the beauty care industry and can be relied on as a guideline for implementations technology to boost sales and build strong relationship with customers.

Practical implications

This research provides new insight for retailers on the implementation of chatbots at the point of sale. Marketers and business owners should be aware of the usefulness and ease of use of technology for Generation Z and be able to interact with them on this basis in order to generate increased economic performance and better brand image.

Originality/value

The model extends the original TAM and introduces two new constructs, subjective norms and perceived risk, in addition to including personality as a moderating factor. The data was gathered from the under-studied region of North Africa.
Mechanical and tribological properties of FeS/Cu–Bi self-lubricating materials reinforced with copper-plated steel fibers
Authors: Liu Cong , Yin Yanguo , Ma Shibang , Liu Wei , Han Guiquan , Wang Haoping , He Chao
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the effect of steel fibers on the mechanical and tribological properties of FeS/Cu–Bi self-lubricating materials.

Design/methodology/approach

The microstructure of the material was characterized by scanning electron microscopy. Tests on the crushing strength, impact toughness and tribological properties of materials were conducted using a universal electronic testing machine, a 300 J pendulum impact testing machine and an M200 ring-block sliding tribometer, respectively.

Findings

The mechanical properties of the material initially increased and then stabilized with increased copper-plated steel-fiber length. When the length of the copper-plated steel fiber was 7 mm, the mechanical properties of the material reached stability. Compared with the material without a copper-plated steel fiber, its crushing strength and impact toughness increased by 32.6% and 53%, respectively. A copper-plated steel fiber with a length of 7 mm lay flat in a copper matrix can strengthen the friction interface and enrich the lubricant. Accordingly, the antifriction and wear resistance of the materials increased by 17.6% and 55%, respectively.

Originality/value

The effects of copper-plated steel fibers on the properties of FeS/Cu–Bi self-lubricating materials were clarified. This work can serve as a reference for improving material performance and its engineering applications.
Autonomous positioning, capturing, and grasping mechanism for robot end effectors based on the attraction domain relationship
Authors: Tang Shufeng , Zhao Guoqing , Zhi Yun , Qi Ligen , Huang Renjie , Chang Hong , Guo Shijie , Zhang Xuewei
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to solve the problem of uncertain position and attitude between unstructured terrain robot and grasped target and insufficient control accuracy in extreme environment, a grasping mechanism based on attraction domain relationship is proposed, which can realize autonomous positioning, capturing and grasping of robot under low control accuracy.

Design/methodology/approach

The grasping mechanism was designed, taking inspiration from fishing behavior this mechanism introduces attraction domains and flexible-elastic structures through the active and passive ends to achieve automatic positioning and capture. After the capture is completed, the grasping mechanism connects the active end and the passive end, simultaneously relying on the gravity of the target object to achieve locking and release between the robot and the target object. This paper adopts theoretical, simulation and experimental verification methods to conduct theoretical and simulation analysis on the autonomous positioning and grasping process of the mechanism, and produces grasping experimental prototypes with different positions and postures.

Findings

The experiment shows that the gripping mechanism designed in this paper can achieve automatic positioning capture and gripping of large deviation situations under low control accuracy, with a displacement deviation of up to 10 mm (about 1/6 diameter of the end of the mechanism) and an angle deviation of up to 3°. The scientific research task in the extremely high altitude environment has finally been successfully accomplished.

Originality/value

Inspired by fishing behavior, this paper proposes a positioning, capturing and grasping mechanism. The attraction area built with permanent magnets, coupled with the flexible connection, enables precise capture under low control, while the grasping mechanism can also rely on gravity to self-lock and release.
The impact of cultural practices on the outcome of IT risk management implementation
Authors: Azizi Neda , Haass Omid , Centobelli Piera , Cerchione Roberto
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The objectives of this research are two-fold. The first is to explore, describe and explain the relevance of the concept of Information Technology risk management (ITRM) implementation processes. In this regard, we were required to understand the interaction between contextual issues, the ITRM framework itself, IT individual interpretations toward them and their effect on implementation. The second objective is to develop a theoretical model for use in guiding the design and analysis of the proposed empirical work. The study introduces a fresh perspective to an established research area. It is argued that without more emphasis on the dynamic nature of the implementation process, an incomplete understanding of the problem will result.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts an interpretive methodology to a multiple case study design gathering and analysing qualitative evidence. A series of three case studies was designed around 22 semi-structured in-depth interviews conducted to investigate IT individuals’ role in facilitating a successful ITRM implementation.

Findings

The findings provide new insights in relation to ITRM implementation by considering IT individual culture. The research develops a substantive theory involving a schematic model involving a set of theoretical propositions. These findings suggest a dynamic approach to implementing IT risk management framework — one that considers the interaction over time of intentions, context, process and action around risk management frameworks.

Research limitations/implications

This study makes important theoretical contributions to the understanding of organizational implementations by taking a dynamic view of implementation, identifying different individual IT culture archetypes, emphasizing the role of social aspects and developing a set of key factors and contextual conditions.

Practical implications

This model offers managers an understanding of how IT individual culture and the factors and contextual conditional work together over time to ensure a successful ITRM implementation. Meanwhile, it sheds some light on how managers treat IT individuals with different levels of experience differently.

Originality/value

We theorize IT individual culture and the factors and contextual conditional and show their effects on ITRM implementation success, thus making an essential contribution to the information systems and implementation research and practice. Moreover, we provide a novel methodology to conceptualize ITRM implementation as a cultural process through which IT people socially construct the meanings and purposes of their work activities. This research answers scholars’ call to construct more accurate explanations of innovation outcomes in an increasingly IS implementation world.
Developing coaching cultures: an exploration of the enacting practitioner perspective
Authors: Kapoutzis Nick , Whiley Lilith A. , Lewis Rachel , Yarker Jo
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Despite the popularity of facilitating coaching cultures, very little is known about this phenomenon, especially from the perspective of different organisational stakeholders. We aim to add the enacting practitioner perspective in developing coaching cultures that has not yet been explored through empirical research.

Design/methodology/approach

We interviewed 20 organisational development and coaching practitioners who work in or with organisations to develop coaching cultures.

Findings

We apply Braun and Clarke’s reflexive thematic analysis (TA) and unpack four intersecting themes: (1) “It flows through the veins of the organisation”; (2) “More powerful than anything else is having that one-to-one time”; (3) “The roadmap emerges”; and (4) “Means to an end and an end in itself”. We construct a coaching culture as an ever-evolving, psychologically safe, and empowering dialogic “container” or subculture that is developed and sustained by change agents with first-hand experience of coaching.

Originality/value

The findings add to our understanding of coaching cultures by offering a conceptualisation of coaching culture based on practitioners’ perspectives and constructing a framework of assumptions, values and behaviours that underpin them. We conclude by setting an agenda for further research in the advancement of coaching culture theory and practice in coaching psychology.
3D printing application for orthopedic pediatric surgery – a systematic review
Authors: Calderone Danilo , Cesarelli Giuseppe , Ricciardi Carlo , Amato Francesco , Clemente Fabrizio
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to present a systematic review of the latest scientific literature, in the context of pediatric orthopedics, on the development by additive manufacturing of anatomical models, orthoses, surgical guides and prostheses and their clinical applications.

Design/methodology/approach

Following the current guidelines for systematic reviews, three databases (Elsevier Scopus®, Clarivate Web of ScienceTM and USA National Library of Medicine PubMed®) were screened using a representative query to find pertinent documents within the timeframe 2016–2023. Among the information, collected across the reviewed documents, the work focused on the 3D printing workflow involving acquisition, elaboration and fabrication stages.

Findings

Following the inclusion and exclusion criteria, the authors found 20 studies that fitted the defined criteria. The reviewed studies mostly highlighted the positive impact of additive manufacturing in pediatric orthopedic surgery, particularly in orthotic applications where lightweight, ventilated and cost-effective 3D-printed devices demonstrate efficacy comparable to traditional methods, but also underlined the limitations such as printing errors and high printing times. Among the reviewed studies, material extrusion was the most chosen 3D printing technology to manufacture the typical device, particularly with acrylonitrile butadiene styrene.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first systematic review which annotates, from a more engineering point of view, the latest literature on the admittance of the clinical application of additive manufacturing (and its effects) within typical pediatric orthopedic treatments workflows.
Convergence or distinctiveness? Exploring how geographic location influences fan behavior in online fan communities
Authors: Huber Blaine R. , Katz Matthew , Baker Bradley J. , Melton E. Nicole
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This article examines how geographic location (i.e. local or nonlocal) influences fans’ communicative convergence or distinctiveness in the context of an informal online fan community (i.e. Twitter [X]). Nonlocal fans, who live geographically distant from the team they support, derive distinctiveness and belonging from supporting a team from afar. This study considers how these needs materialize in online communication.

Design/methodology/approach

Text mining and textual analysis were employed to collect and evaluate tweets (N = 12,865) in terms of expressed emotion. Tweets were evaluated using the NRC VAD sentiment lexicon (i.e. valence, arousal, dominance) and then categorized based on geographic location and in-group/out-group status. The resulting groups were then analyzed with a two-way multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) to examine how geographic location relates to the expressed emotion of tweets.

Findings

The findings indicate nonlocal fans expressed statistically greater arousal compared to local online community members, reflecting their distinctiveness as nonlocal fans. Nonlocal and local fans expressed similar degrees of valence and dominance in their language, suggesting nonlocal fans converge communication behavior, seeking social approval from the salient online fan community.

Originality/value

This study suggests that geographic location influences communication behavior in online fan communities. Moreover, nonlocal fans may be valuable, and underutilized, advocates for sports teams in online community settings.
A study into the themes of quality management: early findings from a global research project and agenda for future research
Authors: Antony Jiju , Kaul Arshia , Sony Michael , Singh Navjit , Vij Priya , Bhat Shreeranga , Yamini S. , Laureani Alessandro
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Quality management (QM) plays a pivotal role in driving organisational efforts to enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. This study aims to explore the most important themes in QM over the past three decades, identifying and analysing the top ten key themes that have shaped the field during this period. This study, involving leading academics and industry practitioners, lays the groundwork for a three-to-four-year exploration of the most influential QM themes worldwide.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a comprehensive review of QM literature over the last three decades from top specialist journals on QM. This is followed by conducting a global pilot survey with leading academics and practitioners to pinpoint the top ten dominant themes of QM for organisations to leverage in gaining and maintaining a competitive edge.

Findings

The top ten themes of QM, as identified by authors through input from academics and practitioners worldwide, offer valuable insights for companies of all sizes and sectors. These themes serve as a guide for the successful and sustainable implementation of QM practices and continuous improvement strategies.

Research limitations/implications

Despite a limited sample size, the initial findings provide a glimpse into critical themes. Over the next three years, as the study progresses, we anticipate potential changes in the results. Notably, the comparison of themes between manufacturing and services as well as large and small enterprises, remains unexplored in the current investigation.

Originality/value

The authors of this study assert that their research will pave the way for future themes in the digitalization era. Moreover, this research stands out as one of the most exhaustive examinations from both academic and practitioner viewpoints, offering a unique perspective not commonly found in existing literature.
The Unfree Commons: Freedom of Marine Scientific Research and the Status of Genetic Resources Beyond National Jurisdiction
Authors: Thambisetty Siva
Published: October 2024

Longstanding negotiations on the status of marine genetic resources beyond national jurisdiction under a new UN treaty oscillated between the common heritage of mankind and the freedom of the high seas. The final text of the new Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Treaty bridges the normative dissonance by crafting a freedom of marine scientific research juxtaposed with the common heritage of humankind. This article argues that the principle is a specific carve‐out from the freedom of scientific research in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), enumerated as one of the freedoms of the high seas. The principle of freedom of marine scientific research is best conceived as a property‐protected activity tethered to marine genetic resources where the scope and consequences of the activity demarcate the commons resource. It derives legitimacy and content from the common heritage regimes in UNCLOS as well as the operative elements of Part II of the BBNJ Treaty that address the equitable use of marine genetic resources and digital sequence information on marine genetic resources. As such, this element in the Treaty and the explanation set out here introduces a new and unprecedented constitutionalising norm in global biodiversity governance.
Administrative Law as a Source of Rights
Authors: Pfiffer Megan
Published: October 2024

This article challenges the pervasive assumption that judicial review of administrative action is not concerned with rights. Making a break from this orthodoxy, it proposes a theory of judicial review that suggests that its purpose is to protect distinctive administrative law rights held by those subject to public administrative power. This rights‐based theory makes sense of the structure of applications for judicial review in which, paradigmatically, an individual subject to an administrative decision makes a claim against the state that the public official responsible for that decision failed to meet the relevant administrative law standards, and accordingly demands a remedy. The bulk of the article is dedicated to addressing the major objections to a rights‐based theory, including those arising from public interest standing and the nature of judicial review remedies. The analysis shows that each of these objections fails, clearing the ground for a fuller development of a rights‐based theory of judicial review in future work.
Performance of CO‐RADS in the diagnosis of COVID‐19 in hemodialysis patients
Authors: Ozkan Kurtgoz Pervin , Sackan Fatih , Buyukterzi Meral , Guney Ibrahim
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Different data systems have been used to reach a common decision in the interpretation of chest computed tomography (CT) scans for the detection of COVID‐19 infection. The aim of our study was to determine the usefulness of the COVID‐19 Reporting and Data System (CO‐RADS) for COVID‐19 in patients undergoing hemodialysis.

Methods

We included 90 hemodialysis patients who underwent chest CT and had samples available for real‐time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). The files of the patients were retrospectively reviewed and the data were recorded. Image interpretation and CO‐RADS staging were performed retrospectively by two radiologists experienced in COVID‐19 patients, blinded to the RT‐PCR results. The RT‐PCR results were then compared with the CO‐RADS stages obtained. The success of CO‐RADS in diagnosing COVID‐19 was evaluated according to its prediction of a positive RT‐PCR result. At the same time, the relationship between CO‐RADS stages and prognosis was also evaluated.

Results

Patients were divided into two groups according to the RT‐PCR results, of which 38 (42.2%) had positive results. Validity tests of CO‐RADS were performed according to the RT‐PCR test. While 71.1% of patients with CO‐RADS ≥4 were RT‐PCR (+), 13.2% of patients with CO‐RADS ≤2 were RT‐PCR (+) (p < 0.001). CO‐RADS ≥4 detected COVID‐19 with 71.1% sensitivity and 51.9% specificity. ROC analysis confirmed the diagnostic performance of CO‐RADS for predicting RT‐PCR positivity with AUC = 0.73 (95% CI: 0.63–0.84). The relationship between CO‐RADS stages and mortality was not significant (p = 0.21).

Conclusion

CO‐RADS is moderately sensitive and poorly specific for the diagnosis of COVID‐19 in hemodialysis patients. In these patients, CO‐RADS would be more useful to exclude other infections than to diagnose COVID‐19.
Genome‐wide association analysis identifies candidate genes for carcass yields in Peking ducks
Authors: Yu Jiang‐Zhou , Zhou Jun , Yang Fang‐Xi , Hao Jin‐Ping , Hou Zhuo‐Cheng , Zhu Feng
Published: October 2024

Poultry meat, particularly Peking ducks, holds a significant global market share, prized for their high meat yield and fat content. However, understanding of the molecular genetic mechanisms influencing carcass yield in ducks is limited. This research aims to use genome‐wide association analysis to uncover single‐nucleotide polymorphisms influencing carcass yield in Peking ducks, followed by identifying candidate genes linked to carcass traits. In this study, we analyzed seven traits of 643 Peking ducks at age 42 days and identified novel loci associated with these traits. A total of 35 significant loci were detected, with eight SNPs reaching genome‐wide significance. KIF20B, AGBL5, SGSM1, MRO, PLAG1, XKR4, and TGS1 were considered as important candidate genes influencing carcass yield in ducks. This study adds to the list of genes affecting Peking duck body traits, aiding marker‐assisted breeding and enhancing economic yield.
Rapid detection of mouse spermatogenic defects by testicular cellular composition analysis via enhanced deep learning model
Authors: Ao Nianfei , Zang Min , Lu Yue , Jiao Yiping , Lu Haoda , Cai Chengfei , Wang Xiangxue , Li Xin , Xie Minge , Zhao Tingting , Xu Jun , Xu Eugene Yujun
Published: October 2024

Background

Histological analysis of the testicular sections is paramount in infertility research but tedious and often requires months of training and practice.

Objectives

Establish an expeditious histopathological analysis of mutant mice testicular sections stained with commonly available hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) via enhanced deep learning model

Materials and Methods

Automated segmentation and cellular composition analysis on the testes of six mouse reproductive mutants of key reproductive gene family, DAZ and PUMILIO gene family via H&E‐stained mouse testicular sections.

Results

We improved the deep learning model with human interaction to achieve better pixel accuracy and reduced annotation time for histologists; revealed distinctive cell composition features consistent with previously published phenotypes for four mutants and novel spermatogenic defects in two newly generated mutants; established a fast spermatogenic defect detection protocol for quantitative and qualitative assessment of testicular defects within 2.5–3 h, requiring as few as 8 H&E‐stained testis sections; uncovered novel defects in AcDKO and a meiotic arrest defect in HDBKO, supporting the synergistic interaction of Sertoli Pum1 and Pum2 as well as redundant meiotic function of Dazl and Boule.

Discussion

Our testicular compositional analysis not only could reveal spermatogenic defects from staged seminiferous tubules but also from unstaged seminiferous tubule sections.

Conclusion

Our SCSD‐Net model offers a rapid protocol for detecting reproductive defects from H&E‐stained testicular sections in as few as 3 h, providing both quantitative and qualitative assessments of spermatogenic defects. Our analysis uncovered evidence supporting the synergistic interaction of Sertoli PUM1 and PUM2 in maintaining average testis size, and redundant roles of DAZ family proteins DAZL and BOULE in meiosis.
A systematic review of economic evaluations of orphan medicines for the management of spinal muscular atrophy
Authors: Belančić Andrej , Faour Andrea Katrin , Gkrinia Elvira Meni Maria , Vitezić Dinko
Published: October 2024

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a rare inherited autosomal recessive progressive disease of a varying phenotype, with varying clinical symptoms, and as a result the patients suffering from it require multiple types of care. It was deemed useful to conduct a systematic literature review on the pharmacoeconomic evaluations of all currently registered disease‐modifying therapies in order to inform policy and highlight research gaps. Pharmacoeconomic analyses written in English and published after 2016 were considered for inclusion. PubMed/Medline, Global Health and Embase were systematically and separately searched between 16 October and 23 October 2023. Hand‐searching was also conducted on PubMed based on reference lists of published literature. After the exclusion criteria were applied, 14 studies were included. BMJ checklist was used for quality assessment and the Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards (CHEERS) checklist was used to assess the quality of reporting of all included studies. Data extraction was performed manually. Regarding evidence synthesis, data were heterogeneous and are thus presented based on comparison. This study confirms the need for pharmacoeconomic analyses (cost‐effectiveness or cost‐utility) also in cases when the cost of treatment is very high and the incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio values exceed the usual, acceptable values for standard therapy. Specific willingness to pay thresholds for orphan medicines are of the utmost importance, to allow patients with SMA to have access to safe and effective treatments. With such economic evaluations, it is possible to compare the value of medications with the same indication, but it should be emphasized that in the interpretation of data and in making decisions about the use of medicines, the impact of new knowledge should be considered.
The importance of genetic variant cleaners: From patient to wet lab and back to clinical practice
Authors: Teruel‐Montoya Raúl , Rivera Jose , Lozano Maria L.
Published: October 2024

Laureano J. Kamiya and colleagues have identified two novel missense variants (Gly168Arg and Gly168Glu) in the RUNX1 gene. These variants, identified in two unrelated families with familial platelet disorder with a predisposition to acute myeloid leukaemia (FPD/AML) phenotype, were initially classified as variants of uncertain significance (VUS). However, functional studies of RUNX1 target genes enabled their reclassification as likely pathogenic. The findings highlight Gly168 as a new mutation hotspot in RUNX1, providing important insights for genetic counselling and leukaemia monitoring. The study emphasizes the necessity for continuous updates to diagnostic guidelines and data sharing among laboratories to improve the classification and interpretation of genetic variants.

Commentary on: Kamiya et al. Two novel families with RUNX1 variants indicate glycine 168 as a new mutational hotspot: Implications for FPD/AML diagnosis. Br J Haematol 2024; 205:2327‐2337.