bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-flow nasal cannula oxygen versus noninvasive ventilation for the management of acute cardiogenic pulmonary edema: a randomized controlled pilot study
Authors: Marjanovic Nicolas , Piton Melyne , Lamarre Jennifer , Alleyrat Camille , Couvreur Raphael , Guenezan Jérémy , Mimoz Olivier , Frat Jean-Pierre
Published: February 2024

Background

Whether high-flow nasal oxygen can improve clinical signs of acute respiratory failure in acute heart failure (AHF) is uncertain.

Objective

To compare the effect of high-flow oxygen with noninvasive ventilation (NIV) on respiratory rate in patients admitted to an emergency department (ED) for AHF-related acute respiratory failure.

Design, settings and participants

Multicenter, randomized pilot study in three French EDs. Adult patients with acute respiratory failure due to suspected AHF were included. Key exclusion criteria were urgent need for intubation, Glasgow Coma Scale <13 points or hemodynamic instability.

Intervention

Patients were randomly assigned to receive high-flow oxygen (minimum 50 l/min) or noninvasive bilevel positive pressure ventilation.

Outcomes measure

The primary outcome was change in respiratory rate within the first hour of treatment and was analyzed with a linear mixed model. Secondary outcomes included changes in pulse oximetry, heart rate, blood pressure, blood gas samples, comfort, treatment failure and mortality.

Main results

Among the 145 eligible patients in the three participating centers, 60 patients were included in the analysis [median age 86 (interquartile range (IQR), 90; 92) years]. There was a median respiratory rate of 30.5 (IQR, 28; 33) and 29.5 (IQR, 27; 35) breaths/min in the high-flow oxygen and NIV groups respectively, with a median change of −10 (IQR, −12; −8) with high-flow nasal oxygen and −7 (IQR, −11; −5) breaths/min with NIV [estimated difference −2.6 breaths/min (95% confidence interval (CI), −0.5–5.7),P = 0.052] at 60 min. There was a median SpO2of 95 (IQR, 92; 97) and 96 (IQR, 93; 97) in the high-flow oxygen and NIV groups respectively, with a median change at 60 min of 2 (IQR, 0; 5) with high-flow nasal oxygen and 2 (IQR, −1; 5) % with NIV [estimated difference 0.8% (95% CI, −1.1–2.8),P = 0.60]. PaO2, PaCO2and pH did not differ at 1 h between groups, nor did treatment failure, intubation and mortality rates.

Conclusion

In this pilot study, we did not observe a statistically significant difference in changes in respiratory rate among patients with acute respiratory failure due to AHF and managed with high-flow oxygen or NIV. However, the point estimate and its large confidence interval may suggest a benefit of high-flow oxygen.

Trial registration

NCT04971213 (https://clinicaltrials.gov).
Risk Reduction of Concussion in Athletes: Do Neck Size or Neck Strength Make a Difference?
Authors: Silverman Sean , Vidt Meghan E. , Hong Justin S. , Grafton Lori M.
Published: February 2024

Medical provider’s ability to detect, diagnose, and treat sport-related concussion (SRC) has greatly improved in recent years. Though more is known about the biomechanical forces involved in concussion, it is still uncertain whether there are preventative measures athletes can take to prevent a SRC from occurring. The objective of this review was to determine if either neck size or neck strength is related to a decreased risk of sustaining a SRC. A literature review was conducted on Google Scholar and Ovid MEDLINE for pertinent articles. Findings indicate that isometric neck strength, but not neck size, has been shown to be a predictor for SRC prevention. Formal neck strengthening programs are feasible and lead to decreased SRC risk. Additionally, there may be greater opportunity to increase neck strength in amateur athletes compared to professional. In conclusion, cervical strengthening programs have been shown to be feasible and beneficial for athletes to decrease their risk of sustaining a SRC, though the optimal duration, intensity, and frequency has yet to be determined.
Genomic investigations of diverse corbiculate bee gut-associated Gilliamella reveal conserved pathways for energy metabolism, with diverse and variable energy sources
Authors: Nguyen Viet Hung
Published: February 2024

Gilliamella is a genus of bacteria commonly found as symbionts of corbiculate bees. Research into energy metabolism by this genus had predominantly been through in vivo and in vitro experiments, focused on the type species Gilliamella apicola. Here, 95 publicly available genomes representing at least 18 Gilliamella species isolated from the hindgut of corbiculate bees were examined. Energy metabolism pathways were found to be highly conserved across not only the Gilliamella, but the family Orbaceae. Evidence suggests Gilliamella are capable of fermentation of fumarate to succinate, and pyruvate to acetate, ethanol, formate, and both isoforms of lactate, with some G. apicola also potentially capable of fermentation to acetoin. All Gilliamella seem to be capable of microaerophilic, but not fully aerobic or anaerobic respiration. Evidence suggests the glycolysis and pentose phosphate pathways are important mechanisms for metabolism of energy sources, with the TCA cycle playing little to no role in energy metabolism for all Gilliamella species. Import of energy sources, i.e. sugars and derivatives, likely rely predominantly on the phosphoenol-pyruvate-dependent phosphotransferase system. Differences in potential energy sources utilized may represent fitness advantages associating with specific host species.
A novel synthetic nucleic acid mixture for quantification of microbes by mNGS
Authors: Wanghu Hailing , Li Yingzhen , Huang Jin , Pu Kangze , Guo Fengming , Zhong Peiwen , Wang Ting , Yuan Jianying , Yu Yan , Chen Jiachang , Liu Jun , Chen Jason J. , Hu Chaohui
Published: February 2024

Metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) provides considerable advantages in identifying emerging and re-emerging, difficult-to-detect and co-infected pathogens; however, the clinical application of mNGS remains limited primarily due to the lack of quantitative capabilities. This study introduces a novel approach, KingCreate-Quantification (KCQ) system, for quantitative analysis of microbes in clinical specimens by mNGS, which co-sequence the target DNA extracted from the specimens along with a set of synthetic dsDNA molecules used as Internal-Standard (IS). The assay facilitates the conversion of microbial reads into their copy numbers based on IS reads utilizing a mathematical model proposed in this study. The performance of KCQ was systemically evaluated using commercial mock microbes with varying IS input amounts, different proportions of human genomic DNA, and at varying amounts of sequence analysis data. Subsequently, KCQ was applied in microbial quantitation in 36 clinical specimens including blood, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, cerebrospinal fluid and oropharyngeal swabs. A total of 477 microbe genetic fragments were screened using the bioinformatic system. Of these 83 fragments were quantitatively compared with digital droplet PCR (ddPCR), revealing a correlation coefficient of 0.97 between the quantitative results of KCQ and ddPCR. Our study demonstrated that KCQ presents a practical approach for the quantitative analysis of microbes by mNGS in clinical samples.
Molecular mechanisms underlying the modulation of T-cell proliferation and cytotoxicity by immobilized CCL21 and ICAM1
Authors: Yado Sofi , Dassa Bareket , Zoabi Rawan , Reich-Zeliger Shlomit , Friedman Nir , Geiger Benjamin
Published: February 2024

Background

Adoptive cancer immunotherapy, using engineered T-cells, expressing chimeric antigen receptor (CARs) or autologous tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) became, in recent years, a major therapeutic approach for diverse types of cancer. However, despite the transformative potential of adoptive cancer immunotherapy, this field still faces a major challenge manifested by the complex interplay between the proliferation rate and cytotoxic capacity of effector CD8+T cells.

Methods

We performed integrated analysis of specific differentiation markers via flow cytometry, together with gene expression profiling to explore the molecular mechanisms through which a “synthetic immune niche” (SIN), composed of immobilized CCL21 and ICAM1, modulates the interplay between the proliferation and cytotoxic potency of effector CD8+T cells.

Results

On day 3, the transcriptomic effect induced by the SIN was largely similar for both DC/OVA and anti CD3/CD28-activated cells. Cell proliferation increased and the cells exhibited high killing capacity. On day 4 and on, the proliferation/cytotoxicity phenotypes were radically “activation-specific”; The DC/OVA-activated cells lost their cytotoxic activity, which, in turn, was rescued by the SIN treatment. Upon longer incubation, the cytotoxic activity further declined, and on day7, could not be rescued by the SIN. SIN stimulation following activation with antiCD3/CD28 beads resulted in a highly proliferative phenotype with low cytotoxicity, yet the cells regained killing activity on day 7. Potential molecular regulations of the SIN effects were identified, based on transcriptomic and multispectral imaging profiling.

Conclusions

These data indicate that cell proliferation and cytotoxicity are negatively correlated, and the interplay between them is differentially regulated by the mode of initial activation. The SIN stimulation greatly enhanced the cell expansion, following both activation modes, while maintaining high cytotoxic potency, suggesting that it could reinforce adoptive cancer immunotherapy.
A reference genome for the Chinese Lizardtail Herb (Saururus chinensis)
Authors: Tang Chengyi
Published: February 2024

Several months earlier, other researchers had achieved the inaugural publication of the Chinese Lizardtail Herb (Saururus chinensis) genome dataset. However, the quality of that genome dataset is not deeply satisfactory, especially in terms of genome continuity (Contig N50 length ≈ 1.429 Mb) and gene-set completeness (BUSCO evaluation ≈ 91.32%). In this study, we present an improved chromosome-level genome ofS. chinensis, characterized by heightened genome continuity (Contig N50 length ≈ 4.180 Mb) and a more complete gene-set (BUSCO evaluation ≈ 95.91%). Our investigation reveal that the extantS. chinensis genome preserves abundant vestiges of a paleo-tetraploidization event that are discernible both at the macroscopic chromosome level and within microscopic gene families, such as the PEL (pseudo-etiolation in light) family. Moreover, we elucidate that this paleo-tetraploidization event is associated with an expansion of the PEL family, potentially initiating a process conducive to its neofunctionalization and/or subfunctionalization.
Matrix-rigidity cooperates with biochemical cues in M2 macrophage activation through increased nuclear deformation and chromatin accessibility
Authors: Shin Seung Jae , Bayarkhangai Buuvee , Tsogtbaataar Khaliunsarnai , Yuxuan Meng , Kim Sang-Hyun , Kim Yong-Jae , Kim Daesan , Kim Dong-Hwee , Lee Jung Hwan , Hyun Jeongeun , Kim Hae-Won
Published: February 2024

Macrophages encounter a myriad of biochemical and mechanical stimuli across various tissues and pathological contexts. Notably, matrix rigidity has emerged as a pivotal regulator of macrophage activation through mechanotransduction. However, the precise mechanisms underlying the interplay between mechanical and biochemical cues within the nuclear milieu remain elusive. Here we elucidate how the increased matrix rigidity drives macrophages to amplify alternatively-activated (M2 phenotype) signalings cooperatively with biochemical cues (e.g., IL4/13) through altered nuclear mechanics. Notably, we found that reconstructed podosome-like F-actins and contractility induced nucleus deformation, opening nuclear pores, which facilitates nuclear translocation of the key transcription factor STAT6. Furthermore, the altered nuclear mechanics increased chromatin accessibility induced by H3K9 methylation, particularly of M2-associated gene promoters. These cooperative events of the mechano-chemical signaling at the cytoskeletal-to-nuclear domains facilitated M2 transcriptional activation and cellular functions. We further evidenced the rigidity-primed M2 macrophages were immunosuppressive and accumulated in stiffened tumor tissues. This study proposes a mechanism by which matrix mechanics crosstalks with biochemical signals to potentiate macrophage activation through nuclear mechanosensing and chromatin modifications, offering insights into macrophage mechanobiology and its therapeutic modulations.
Photo-Uncaging Triggers on Self-Blinking to Control Single-Molecule Fluorescence Kinetics for Super-Resolution Imaging
Authors: Zheng Ying , Ye Zhiwei , Zhang Xue , Xiao Yi
Published: February 2024

Super-resolution imaging in a single-molecule localization approach has transformed the bulk fluorescence requirements to a single-molecule level, raising a revolution in the fluorophore engineering. Yet, it is a challenge to structurally devise fluorophores manipulating the single-molecule blinking kinetics. In this pursuit, we have developed a new strategy by innovatively integrating the photoactivatable nitroso-caging strategy into self-blinking sulfonamide, to forming a nitroso-caged sulfonamide rhodamine (NOSR). Our fluorophore demonstrated controllable self-blinking events upon photo-triggered uncaging release. This exceptional blink kinetics improved integrity in super-resolution imaging microtubules compared to self-blinking analogues. With the aid of paramount single-molecule fluorescence kinetics, we successfully reconstructed the axial morphology of mitochondrial outer membranes. We foresee that our synthetic approach of photoactivation and self-blinking would set a new avenue for devising rhodamines for super-resolution imaging.

Abstract Figure
Cathepsin B regulates ovarian reserve quality and quantity via mitophagy by modulating IGF1R turnover
Authors: Mohanty Aradhana , Kumari Anjali , Kumar. S Lava , Kumar Ajith , Birajdar Pravin , Beniwal Rohit , Athar Mohd , Kumar P Kiran , Prasada Rao H.B.D.
Published: February 2024

The quality and quantity of the ovarian reserve are meticulously regulated through various cell death pathways to guarantee the availability of high-quality oocytes for fertilization. While apoptosis is recognized for contributing to maintaining ovarian reserve, the involvement of other cell death pathways remains unclear. Employing chemical genetics and proteomics, this study reveals the crucial involvement of Cathepsin B in maintaining the ovarian reserve. Results indicate that apoptosis and autophagy play pivotal roles, and inhibiting these pathways significantly increases follicle numbers. Proteomics reveals a dynamic shift from apoptosis to autophagy during follicular development, with Cathepsin B emerging as a key player in this transition. Inhibiting Cathepsin B not only mimics the augmented oocyte reserve observed with autophagy inhibition but also upregulated IGF1R and AKT-mTOR pathways without compromising fertility. Further, IGF1R inhibition partially compromised the protective effects of Cathepsin B inhibition on oocyte reserves, suggesting their interdependence. This association is further supported by the finding that Cathepsin B can degrade IGF1R in vitro. Moreover, the increased IGF1R levels enhance the oocyte mitochondrial membrane potential via transcriptional regulation of mitochondrial biogenesis and mitophagy genes. Remarkably, this Cathepsin B-dependent ovarian reserve maintenance mechanism is conserved in higher-order vertebrates. Cumulatively, our study sheds valuable light on the intricate interplay of autophagy, Cathepsin B, and growth factors in ovarian reserve maintenance, offering potential implications for fertility research.
Discovering long-lived particles at DUNE
Authors: Coloma Pilar , Martín-Albo Justo , Urrea Salvador
Published: February 2024

Long-lived particles (LLPs) arise in many theories beyond the Standard Model. These may be copiously produced from meson decays (or through their mixing with the LLPs) at neutrino facilities and leave a visible decay signal in nearby neutrino detectors. We compute the expected sensitivity of the DUNE liquid argon (LAr) and gaseous argon near detectors (NDs) to light LLP decays. In doing so, we determine the expected backgrounds for both detectors, which have been largely overlooked in the literature, taking into account their angular and energy resolution. We show that searches for LLP decays into muon pairs, or into three pions, would be extremely clean. Conversely, decays into two photons would be affected by large backgrounds from neutrino interactions for both near detectors; finally, the reduced signal efficiency for e+e− pairs leads to a reduced sensitivity for ND-LAr. Our results are first presented in a model-independent way, as a function of the mass of the new state and its lifetime. We also provide detailed calculations for several phenomenological models with axionlike particles (coupled to gluons, electroweak bosons, or quark currents). Some of our results may also be of interest for other neutrino facilities using a similar detector technology (e.g., MicroBooNE, SBND, ICARUS, or the T2K near detector).

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Asymptotic symmetry algebra of
N=8
supergravity
Authors: Banerjee Nabamita , Rahnuma Tabasum , Singh Ranveer Kumar
Published: February 2024

The asymptotic symmetry algebra of N=1 supergravity was recently constructed using the well-known two-dimensional celestial conformal field (CFT) theory technique [A. Fotopoulos , ]. In this paper, we extend the construction to the maximally supersymmetric four-dimensional N=8 supergravity theory in asymptotically flat spacetime and construct the extended asymptotic symmetry algebra, which we call N=8  sbms4. We use the celestial CFT technique to find the appropriate currents for extensions of N=8 super-Poincaré and SU(8)R R-symmetry current algebra on the celestial sphere CS2. We generalize the definition of shadow transformations and show that there is infinite dimensional extension of the global SU(8)R algebra in the theory.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Rigorous Screened Interactions for Realistic Correlated Electron Systems
Authors: Scott Charles J. C. , Booth George H.
Published: February 2024

We derive a widely applicable first-principles approach for determining two-body, static effective interactions for low-energy Hamiltonians with quantitative accuracy. The algebraic construction rigorously conserves all instantaneous two-point correlation functions in a chosen model space at the level of the random phase approximation, improving upon the traditional uncontrolled static approximations. Applied to screened interactions within a quantum embedding framework, we demonstrate these faithfully describe the relaxation of local subspaces via downfolding high-energy physics in molecular systems, as well as enabling a systematically improvable description of the long-range plasmonic contributions in extended graphene.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Non-Hermitian chiral anomalies in interacting systems
Authors: Sayyad Sharareh
Published: February 2024

The emergence of chiral anomaly entails various fascinating phenomena such as anomalous quantum Hall effect and chiral magnetic effect in different branches of (non-)Hermitian physics. While in the single-particle picture, anomalous currents merely appear due to the coupling of massless particles with background fields, many-body interactions can also be responsible for anomalous transport in interacting systems. In this Letter, we study anomalous chiral currents in systems where interacting massless fermions with complex Fermi velocities are coupled to complex gauge fields. Our results reveal that incorporating non-Hermiticity and many-body interactions gives rise to additional terms in anomalous relations beyond their Hermitian counterparts. We further present that many-body corrections in the subsequent non-Hermitian chiral magnetic field or anomalous Hall effect are nonvanishing in nonequilibrium or inhomogeneous systems. Our findings advance efforts in understanding anomalous transport in interacting non-Hermitian systems.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Revisiting the hydrogenation behavior of NdGa and its hydride phases
Authors: Shtender Vitalii , Cedervall Johan , Ek Gustav , Zlotea Claudia , Andersson Mikael S. , Manuel Pascal , Sahlberg Martin , Häussermann Ulrich
Published: February 2024

NdGa hydride and deuteride phases were prepared from high-quality NdGa samples and their structures characterized by powder and single-crystal X-ray diffraction and neutron powder diffraction. NdGa with the orthorhombic CrB-type structure absorbs hydrogen at hydrogen pressures ≤ 1 bar until reaching the composition NdGaH(D)1.1, which maintains a CrB-type structure. At elevated hydrogen pressure additional hydrogen is absorbed and the maximum composition recovered under standard temperature and pressure conditions is NdGaH(D)1.6 with the Cmcm LaGaH1.66-type structure. This structure is a threefold superstructure with respect to the CrB-type structure. The hydrogen atoms are ordered and distributed on three fully occupied Wyckoff positions corresponding to tetrahedral (4c, 8g) and trigonal–bipyramidal (8g) voids in the parent structure. The threefold superstructure is maintained in the H-deficient phases NaGaH(D)
x
until 1.6 ≥ x ≥ 1.2. At lower H concentrations, coinciding with the composition of the hydride obtained from hydrogenation at atmospheric pressure, the unit cell of the CrB-type structure is resumed. This phase can also display H deficiency, NdGaH(D)
y
(1.1 ≥ y ≥ 0.9), with H(D) exclusively situated in partially empty tetrahedral voids. The phase boundary between the threefold superstructure (LaGaH1.66 type) and the onefold structure (NdGaH1.1 type) is estimated on the basis of phase–composition isotherms and neutron powder diffraction to be x = 1.15.
A differentiable simulation package for performing inference of synchrotron-radiation-based diagnostics
Authors: Watt Robbie , O'Shea Brendan
Published: February 2024

The direction of particle accelerator development is ever-increasing beam quality, currents and repetition rates. This poses a challenge to traditional diagnostics that directly intercept the beam due to the mutual destruction of both the beam and the diagnostic. An alternative approach is to infer beam parameters non-invasively from the synchrotron radiation emitted in bending magnets. However, inferring the beam distribution from a measured radiation pattern is a complex and computationally expensive task. To address this challenge we present SYRIPY (SYnchrotron Radiation In PYthon), a software package intended as a tool for performing inference of synchrotron-radiation-based diagnostics. SYRIPY has been developed using PyTorch, which makes it both differentiable and able to leverage the high performance of GPUs, two vital characteristics for performing statistical inference. The package consists of three modules: a particle tracker, Lienard–Wiechert solver and Fourier optics propagator, allowing start-to-end simulation of synchrotron radiation detection to be carried out. SYRIPY has been benchmarked against SRW, the prevalent numerical package in the field, showing good agreement and up to a 50× speed improvement. Finally, we have demonstrated how SYRIPY can be used to perform Bayesian inference of beam parameters using stochastic variational inference.
Not a single path to success: alternative HRM configurations for well-performing small and medium-sized hotels
Authors: Zografou I. , Galanaki E. , Pahos N. , Deligianni I.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Previous literature has identified human resources as a key source of competitive advantage in organizations of all sizes. However, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) face difficulty in comprehensively implementing all recommended Human Resource Management (HRM) functions. In this study, we shed light on the field of HRM in SMEs by focusing on the context of Greek Small and Medium-sized Hotels (SMHs), which represent a dominant private sector employer across the country.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) and 34 in-depth interviews with SMHs' owners/managers, we explore the HRM conditions leading to high levels of performance, while taking into consideration the influence of internal key determinants.

Findings

We uncover three alternative successful HRM strategies that maximize business performance, namely the Compensation-based performers, the HRM developers and the HRM investors. Each strategy fits discreet organizational characteristics related to company size, ownership type and organizational structure.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge this is among the first empirical studies that examine different and equifinal performance-enhancing configurations of HRM practices in SMHs.
Enabling student employability through volunteering: insights from police volunteers studying professional policing degrees in Wales
Authors: Pepper Ian , Rogers Colin , Turner James , Louis Nick , Williams Bronwen
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore perceptions and provides insights, from students who volunteer in policing whilst also studying the college of policing licenced professional policing degree (PPD) in Wales. It examines issues that act as enablers and blockers to volunteering in this public service, which also provides opportunities to develop their employability towards the careers to which they aspire. The paper provides insights from students and makes recommendations of interest to multiple stakeholders locally, regionally, nationally and internationally regarding attracting and recruiting volunteers.

Design/methodology/approach

Focus groups were conducted with students at three separate universities in the South and West of Wales. These undergraduate students were volunteers in different police forces and agreed to take part in connection with their experiences. The results were analysed using NVivo to establish commonalities.

Findings

The paper provides empirical insights concerning the issues surrounding the way those undergoing the process for recruitment as volunteers within policing are either hindered (blocked) or assisted (enabled). It identifies specific problematic areas as well as areas which have been of assistance. Policy makers, educators and recruiters should be aware of such blockers and enablers when considering adopting volunteering as an opportunity to enhance student employability. It also has resonance for other forms of volunteering in alternate public services.

Research limitations/implications

This research is limited to those volunteers who are undertaking the licenced PPD at three separate universities in Wales. Although the research adds to the broader evidence-base with regards to volunteering and its use to enhance employability.

Practical implications

The paper includes practical implications for multiple stakeholders including university programme educators, administrators and decision makers in policing with regards to volunteering, employability, programme structures and process management.

Originality/value

The research is based upon the experiences and perceptions of those individuals who are actually engaged in volunteering.
Co-development of client involvement in health and social care services: examining modes of interaction
Authors: Kurki Anna-Leena , Weiste Elina , Toiviainen Hanna , Käpykangas Sari , Ylisassi Hilkka
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The involvement of clients in service encounters and service development has become a central principle for contemporary health and social care organizations. However, in day-to-day work settings, the shift toward client involvement is still in progress. We examined how health and social care professionals, together with clients and managers, co-develop their conceptions of client involvement and search for practical ways in which to implement these in organizational service processes.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical case of this study was a developmental intervention, the client involvement workshop, conducted in a Finnish municipal social and welfare center. The cultural-historical activity theory (CHAT) framework was used to analyze the development of client involvement ideas and the modes of interaction during the intervention.

Findings

Analysis of the collective discussion revealed that the conceptions of client involvement developed through two interconnected object-orientations: Enabling client involvement in service encounters and promoting client involvement in the service system. The predominant mode of interaction in the collective discussion was that of “coordination.” The clients' perspective and contributions were central aspects in the turning points from coordination to cooperation; professionals crossed organizational boundaries, and together with clients, constructed a new client involvement-based object. This suggests that client participation plays an important role in the development of services.

Originality/value

The CHAT-based examination of the modes of interaction clarifies the potential of co-developing client-involvement-based services and highlights the importance of clients' participation in co-development.
Autoethnographic reflections on creating inclusive and collaborative virtual places for academic research
Authors: Trifan Cristina-Alexandra , de Waegh Roxane , Zhang Yunzi , Ooi Can-Seng
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This paper explores the collaborative dynamics and dimensions within a virtual multi-cultural and interdisciplinary workplace. The study focusses on the use of online communication technologies to enhance social inclusion and networking within academia.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses an autoethnographic approach to draw on the personal experiences of a team of four scholars, including three early-career researchers and a senior scholar. Their reflections on their academic positionality and the institutional constraints reveal both the strengths and vulnerabilities of collaborating in a virtual workplace.

Findings

The findings offer insights into the complexities of navigating social dynamics, such as delegating responsibilities, organising meetings across various time zones and encouraging continuous collaboration, inclusivity and effective communication during an extensive timeline. As a result, their experiences revealed that a virtual workplace culture with similar and different attributes to a “normal” workplace emerged.

Originality/value

The paper demonstrates how to create an effective and inclusive virtual workplace by exemplifying best practices in academia and providing practical guidance for individuals and institutions based on honest, co-produced autoethnographic reflections of the authors’ lived experiences.
Shaping brand attitudes through sustainability practices: a TSR approach
Authors: Jagani Sandeep , Saboorideilami Vafa , Tarannum Saraf
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the conditional relationships among sustainability implementation, brand awareness, brand attitude and brand loyalty through the lens of transformative service research (TSR). The research also aims to explain how brand loyalty moderates the mediated effect of brand awareness and attitude in the context of social and environmental sustainability initiatives.

Design/methodology/approach

Using both primary and secondary data sources from 31 prominent service companies and their 6,891 customers, this paper investigates the impact of sustainability practices and brand awareness on customer attitude. The paper also examines the moderated mediation effect of brand loyalty, explaining how it alters brand attitudes in the context of sustainability implementation. Finally, the study conducts a comparative analysis of how environmental and social shape brand attitudes in loyal customers.

Findings

Sustainability implementation has a negative impact on both brand awareness and customer attitude. However, this negative influence is mitigated for highly brand-loyal customers, resulting in a positive brand attitude. Further, the comparative analysis reveals that social implementation positively influences brand attitude in high-loyalty contexts.

Research limitations/implications

This research uses subjective judgments of researchers regarding companies’ sustainability practices, combining them with customer attitudes gathered through survey questionnaires. Additionally, the data set comprises data from 31 large service companies, potentially limiting the generalizability of findings to large service companies. Nevertheless, this paper extends TSR into the realm of sustainability and branding.

Practical implications

The positive outcomes of sustainability implementation practices are most pronounced when customer loyalty toward a brand is strong. Social implementation has a more potent effect on brand attitude, particularly among loyal customers. Companies can tailor their sustainability efforts more effectively.

Originality/value

With the lens of TSR, this research deepens our understanding of how sustainability affects consumer psychology but also offers a methodological advancement by using advanced statistical models and a variety of data sources. The distinctiveness of this research is also highlighted in the examination of how environmental and social sustainability initiatives influence brand attitude, especially among customers who exhibit strong brand loyalty.
The formalization of microenterprises in middle-income countries: informal institutions as a mechanism to address institutional incongruence
Authors: Bravo-Ortega Claudio , Bustamante Carla , Egana del Sol Pablo , Symmes Felipe , Sexton José
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of sales, as a proxy for size, in moderating the impact of institutional incongruence between formal and informal institutions on the formalization of microenterprises in middle-income countries in Latin America.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a probit regression model to examine business formalization as a binary outcome of formal and informal institutions. Data was collected through interviews and surveys across 52 municipalities in the Metropolitan Region of Santiago, Chile. The study used a stratified sampling approach and was conducted between November 2022 and January 2023.

Findings

The results offer three key insights into the formalization of microenterprises in middle-income countries. First, we show that formal institutions do not significantly influence formalization decisions among microentrepreneurs in middle-income countries, challenging the traditional belief that formal institutions alone significantly influence formalization in these contexts. Second, we show that informal institutions are significant predictors of informality, especially among smaller microenterprises. Third, we highlight that the smaller the business, the stronger the negative effect of informal institutions on formalization, and thus, the institutional incongruence between formal and informal institutions decreases for larger businesses.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to management literature by shedding light on the drivers of formalization in middle-income countries, a departure from most formalization studies wherein the focus is primarily on low-income economies. The findings suggest that policymakers in middle-income countries should focus on enabling microenterprise growth through sales, rather than targeting specific demographic groups or relying solely on formal institutional enforcement to promote formalization.
Hotspots in the EU‐27 and Economic Consequences of the 2022 Spring‐Summer Drought
Authors: Pinke Zsolt , Ács Tamás , Kalicz Péter , Kern Zoltán , Jambor Attila
Published: February 2024

The year 2022 will be remembered as a year of severe drought in Europe. Production losses on account of the drought from the six crops representing the most extensive harvested area may even have run to an estimated 13 billion euros in the EU‐27. Considering the ratio of the six crops in all croplands, the total revenue loss to cropland farming may have reached twice as much (25–30 billion euros). This figure indicates the magnitude of the challenge represented by climate change to the continent. While most of Europe suffered from severe drought in the spring and summer of 2022, the agricultural losses were region‐specific and were concentrated in the Western Mediterranean and Carpathian‐Balkan regions. Maize and sunflower suffered the highest losses, while data for wheat, barley, rapeseed, and rye showed an ambivalent picture. Losses in production of cropland farming associated with extremely high market prices have even reached 1–2 per cent of GDP in some countries in the Carpathian‐Balkan region. The paradox of last year was that despite drought hitting cropland farming severely, agriculture in the European Union has created a very high gross added value due to skyrocketing food prices.
Concurrently assessing water supply and demand is critical for evaluating vulnerabilities to climate change
Authors: Hall Sonia A. , Whittemore Aaron , Padowski Julie , Yourek Matthew , Yorgey Georgine G. , Rajagopalan Kirti , McLarty Sasha , Scarpare Fabio V. , Liu Mingliang , Asante‐Sasu Collins , Kondal Ashish , Brady Michael , Gustine Rebecca , Downes Melissa , Callahan Michael , Adam Jennifer C.
Published: February 2024

Aligning water supply with demand is a challenge, particularly in areas with large seasonal variation in precipitation and those dominated by winter precipitation. Climate change is expected to exacerbate this challenge, increasing the need for long‐term planning. Long‐term projections of water supply and demand that can aid planning are mostly published as agency reports, which are directly relevant to decision‐making but less likely to inform future research. We present 20‐year water supply and demand projections for the Columbia River, produced in partnership with the Washington State Dept. of Ecology. This effort includes integrated modeling of future surface water supply and agricultural demand by 2040 and analyses of future groundwater trends, residential demand, instream flow deficits, and curtailment. We found that shifting timing in water supply could leave many eastern Washington watersheds unable to meet late‐season out‐of‐stream demands. Increasing agricultural or residential demands in watersheds could exacerbate these late‐season vulnerabilities, and curtailments could become more common for rivers with federal or state instream flow rules. Groundwater trends are mostly declining, leaving watersheds more vulnerable to surface water supply or demand changes. Both our modeling framework and agency partnership can serve as an example for other long‐term efforts that aim to provide insights for water management in a changing climate elsewhere around the world.
The development and evaluation of dose‐prediction tools for allopurinol therapy (Easy‐Allo tools)
Authors: Wright Daniel F. B. , Hishe Hailemichael Z. , Stocker Sophie L. , Dalbeth Nicola , Horne Anne , Drake Jill , Haslett Janine , Phipps‐Green Amanda J. , Merriman Tony R. , Stamp Lisa K.
Published: February 2024

Aims

Dose escalation at the initiation of allopurinol therapy can be protracted and resource intensive. Tools to predict the allopurinol doses required to achieve target serum urate concentrations would facilitate the implementation of more efficient dose‐escalation strategies. The aim of this research was to develop and externally evaluate allopurinol dosing tools, one for use when the pre‐urate‐lowering therapy serum urate is known (Easy‐Allo1) and one for when it is not known (Easy‐Allo2).

Methods

A revised population pharmacokinetic‐pharmacodynamic model was developed using data from 653 people with gout. Maintenance doses to achieve the serum urate target of <0.36 mmol L−1 in >80% of individuals were simulated and evaluated against external data. The predicted and observed allopurinol doses were compared using the mean prediction error (MPE) and root mean square error (RMSE). The proportion of Easy‐Allo predicted doses within 100 mg of the observed was quantified.

Results

Allopurinol doses were predicted by total body weight, baseline urate, ethnicity and creatinine clearance. Easy‐Allo1 produced unbiased and suitably precise dose predictions (MPE 2 mg day−1 95% confidence interval [CI] −13‐17, RMSE 91%, 90% within 100 mg of the observed dose). Easy‐Allo2 was positively biased by about 70 mg day−1 and slightly less precise (MPE 70 mg day−1 95% CI 52‐88, RMSE 131%, 71% within 100 mg of the observed dose).

Conclusions

The Easy‐Allo tools provide a guide to the allopurinol maintenance dose requirement to achieve the serum urate target of <0.36 mmol L−1 and will aid in the development of novel dose‐escalation strategies for allopurinol therapy.
Social egg freezing and reproductive rights justification: A perspective from China
Authors: Wang Zhaochen , Fan Yuzhi , Shao Wenchen
Published: February 2024

Divergences and controversies are inevitable in the discussion of freedoms and rights, especially in the matter of reproduction. The Chinese first social egg freezing lawsuit raises the question: is the freedom to freeze eggs for social reasons justified because it is an instance of reproductive rights? This paper accepts social egg freezing as desirable reproductive freedom, but following Harel's approach and considering two theories of rights, the choice and interest theories of rights, we argue that social egg freezing is not a reproductive right because one cannot justify a right or an instance of rights via merely describing the function of those instances that have been justified as right, that is, the choice theory lacks justifying normativity. Since reserving fertility and a suspension from reproduction do not serve reproductive ends per se, the sufficient reason for demanding social egg freezing as a right should be found in other ends rather than in right‐to‐reproduce, that is, the interest theory denies the demand as a right‐to‐reproduce. Permitting it on any grounds without guaranteeing adequate and accessible resources, especially in light of cross‐border reproductive care, raises serious questions about reproductive equality and violates the idea of reproductive rights. Therefore, any ground for social egg freezing should be weighed against whether more pressing reproductive needs, specifically those that are justified as rights, have been met. It would be social progress to shoulder these burdens for the vulnerable and then allow social egg freezing—if right‐to‐reproduce were not the only privilege of the few.
Ginsenosides retard atherogenesis via remodelling host–microbiome metabolic homeostasis
Authors: Wang Yun , Wu Jiawei , Hong Yu , Zhu Jiaying , Zhang Youcai , Zhang Jun , Ding Chujie , Che Yuan , Wang Guangji , Jiang Aiqin , Hao Haiping , Cao Lijuan
Published: February 2024

Background and Purpose

Panax ginseng is widely applied in the adjuvant treatment of cardiometabolic diseases in clinical practice without clear mechanisms. This study aims to clearly define the efficacy and underlying mechanism of P. ginseng and its active components in protecting against atherosclerosis.

Experimental Approach

The anti‐atherogenic efficacy of total ginseng saponin extract (TGS) and its components was evaluated on Ldlr−/− mice. Gut microbial structure was analysed by 16S rRNA sequencing and PCR. Bile acid profiles were revealed using targeted metabolomics with LC–MS/MS analysis. The contribution of gut microbiota to atherosclerosis was assessed by co‐housing experiments.

Key Results

Ginsenoside Rb1, representing protopanaxadiol (PPD)‐type saponins, increased intestinal Lactobacillus abundance, resulting in enhanced bile salt hydrolase (BSH) activity to promote intestinal conjugated bile acid hydrolysis and excretion, followed by suppression of enterohepatic farnesoid X receptor (FXR)–fibroblast growth factor 15 (FGF15) signal, and thereby increased cholesterol 7α‐hydroxylase (CYP7A1) transcriptional expression and facilitated metabolic elimination of cholesterol. Synergistically, protopanaxatriol (PPT)‐type saponins, represented by ginsenoside Rg1, protected against atherogenesis‐triggered gut leak and metabolic endotoxaemia. Ginsenoside Rg1 directly induced mucin production to nutritionally maintain Akkermansia muciniphila, which reciprocally inhibited gut permeation. Rb1/Rg1 combination, rather than a single compound, can largely mimic the holistic efficacy of TGS in protecting Ldlr−/− mice from atherogenesis.

Conclusion and Implications

Our study provides strong evidence supporting TGS and ginsenoside Rb1/Rg1 combinations as effective therapies against atherogenesis, via targeting different signal nodes by different components and may provide some elucidation of the holistic mode of herbal medicines.
Nitrogen‐containing heterocyclic compounds: A ray of hope in depression?
Authors: Choudhary Diksha , Kumar Bhupinder , Kaur Rajwinder
Published: February 2024

Depression is not similar to daily mood fluctuations and temporary emotional responses to day‐to‐day activities. Depression is not a passing problem; it is an ongoing problem. It deals with different episodes consisting of several symptoms that last for at least 2 weeks. It can be seen for several weeks, months, or years. At its final stage, or can say, in its worst condition, it can lead to suicide. Antidepressants are used to inhibit the reuptake of the neurotransmitters by some selective receptors, which increase the concentration of specific neurotransmitters around the nerves in the brain. Drugs that are currently being used for the management of various types of depression include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants, atypical antidepressants, serotonin, noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors, etc. In this review, we have outlined different symptoms, causes, and recent advancements in nitrogen‐containing heterocyclic drug candidates for the management of depression. This article highlights the various structural features along with the structure–activity relationship (SAR) of nitrogen‐containing heterocyclics that play a key role in binding at target sites for potential antidepressant action. Thein silicostudies were carried out to determine the binding interactions of the target ligands with the receptor site to determine the potential role of substitution patterns at core pharmacophoric features. This article will help medicinal chemists, biochemists, and other interested researchers in identifying the potential pharmacophores as lead compounds for further development of new potent antidepressants.