bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How obesity affects the disposition of intravenous anesthetics
Authors: Obara Shinju , Yoshida Keisuke , Inoue Satoki
Published: June 2023

Purpose of review

Understanding the changes in drug disposition of intravenous anesthetics in patients with obesity and administering appropriate doses are critical to avoid intraoperative awareness with recall because of underdosing and over-sedation and delayed emergence due to overdosing. Pharmacokinetic simulation or target-controlled infusion (TCI) using models that have been adapted to patients with obesity are necessary to select appropriate dosing regimens. This review aimed to describe the pharmacokinetic concepts underpinning the use of intravenous anesthetics, including propofol, remifentanil, and remimazolam, in patients with obesity.

Recent findings

In the last 5 years, a series of pharmacokinetic models for propofol, remifentanil, and remimazolam that were estimated from populations that included obese patients have been published. These new pharmacokinetic models can be considered ‘second generation’ compared with earlier models in that they expand the range of covariate effects (e.g. the extremes of body weight and age) accounted for by the models. The predictive performances of each pharmacokinetic model have been shown in the literature to be within clinically acceptable limits. Among them, the propofol model by Eleveld et al. has been externally validated and has shown reasonable predictive accuracy.

Pharmacokinetic simulations or TCI using pharmacokinetic models that account for the influence of obesity on a drug's disposition are essential to predict plasma/effect-site concentrations of intravenous anesthetics and understand the temporal profile of drug concentrations and effect in patients with obesity, particularly severe obesity.
Regional anesthesia in the emergency department outside the operating theatre
Authors: Wolmarans Morné , Albrecht Eric
Published: June 2023

Purpose of review

Moderate to severe pain is common and remains a significant problem in the emergency department and regional anesthesia provides optimal and safe pain relief. This review aims to discuss the benefits, indications of the most common ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia techniques that can be provided by clinicians in the emergency department as part of multimodal analgesia. We will also comment on the education and training for effective and safe ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia in the emergency department.

Recent findings

The emergence of multiple new fascial plane blocks that provide easier to learn alternatives, yet effective analgesia for specific patient groups can now safely be taught and utilized in the emergency department.

Emergency physicians are perfectly placed to utilize the advantages of ultrasound-guided regional anesthesia. Various techniques can now be employed to cover most of the painful injuries presenting to the emergency department, thus modifying the morbidity and outcomes of emergency patients. Some of the new techniques require minimal training, provide safe and effective pain relief with low risk of complications. Ultrasound-guided regional anesthetic techniques should form an integral part of the curriculum of emergency department physicians.
Provider and Caregiver Perspectives on Telehealth Assessments for Autism Spectrum Disorder in Young Children: A Multimethod DBPNet Study Exploring Equity
Authors: Kellom Katherine S. , Flaherty Carina M. , Cacia Jaclyn , Christiansen Audrey , Cordero Lucero , Hah Julia , Kennelly Annie , Ortiz Priscilla , Stefanski Kristen , Wozniak Sarah N. , Wallis Kate E.
Published: June 2023

Background:

Telehealth uptake increased dramatically during the COVID-19 pandemic, including for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) assessment by developmental-behavioral pediatric (DBP) clinicians. However, little is known about the acceptability of telehealth or its impact on equity in DBP care.

Objective:

Engage providers and caregivers to glean their perspectives on the use of telehealth for ASD assessment in young children, exploring acceptability, benefits, concerns, and its potential role in ameliorating or exacerbating disparities in access to and quality of DBP care.

Methods:

This multimethod study used surveys and semistructured interviews to describe provider and family perspectives around the use of telehealth in DBP evaluation of children younger than 5 years with possible ASD between 3/2020 and 12/2021. Surveys were completed by 13 DBP clinicians and 22 caregivers. Semistructured interviews with 12 DBP clinicians and 14 caregivers were conducted, transcribed, coded, and analyzed thematically.

Results:

Acceptance of and satisfaction with telehealth for ASD assessments in DBP were high for clinicians and most caregivers. Pros and cons concerning assessment quality and access to care were noted. Providers raised concerns about equity of telehealth access, particularly for families with a preferred language other than English.

Conclusion:

This study's results can inform the adoption of telehealth in DBP in an equitable manner beyond the pandemic. DBP providers and families desire the ability to choose telehealth care for different assessment components. Unique factors related to performing observational assessments of young children with developmental and behavioral concerns make telehealth particularly well-suited for DBP care.
Standardizing liver imaging reporting and interpretation: LI-RADS and beyond
Authors: Rich Nicole E. , Chernyak Victoria
Published: June 2023

Imaging plays a crucial role in diagnosis and post-treatment monitoring of primary liver cancers. Clear, consistent, and actionable communication of imaging results is crucial to avoid miscommunication and potential detrimental impact on patient care. In this review, we discuss the importance, advantages, and potential impact of universal adoption of standardized terminology and interpretive criteria for liver imaging, from the point of view of radiologists and clinicians.
Intraoperative Bleb Behavior in Subretinal Gene Augmentation Therapy for Inherited Retinal Diseases
Authors: Sisk Robert A. , Berger Tyler A. , Williams Eric R. , Riemann Christopher D.
Published: June 2023

Purpose:

In subretinal gene therapy for inherited retinal diseases (IRDs), blebs may not propagate predictably in the direction of the injection cannula. We evaluated factors that influenced bleb propagation among various IRDs.

Methods:

Retrospective review of all subretinal gene therapy procedures performed by a single surgeon between September 2018 and March 2020 for various IRDs. Main outcome measures were directional bias of bleb propagation and intraoperative foveal detachment. Secondary outcome was visual acuity.

Results:

Desired injection volumes and/or foveal treatment were successfully achieved in all 70 eyes of 46 IRD patients regardless of IRD indication. Bullous foveal detachment was associated with retinotomy closer to the fovea, posterior bleb bias, greater bleb volumes (p < 0.01). Blebs biased anteriorly or posteriorly based upon disease indication (p = 0.04) and age (p<0.001). Retinotomy location ≤ 3.7mm (approximately 2 disc diameters) from the fovea favored foveal detachment (p < 0.001). Multiple retinotomies and blebs allowed greater surface area coverage in some eyes, but intersecting blebs did not propagate further.

Conclusion:

Bleb formation and propagation are predictable based upon patient age, retinotomy location, disease indication, and how tangentially fluid is directed into the subretinal space.
SARS-CoV-2 and Dengue Coinfection in Filipino Children: Epidemiology Profile, Clinical Presentation and Outcomes
Authors: Pantig Francesca Mae T. , Clemens Sue Ann Costa , Clemens Ralf , Maramba-Lazarte Cecilia C. , Madrid Mary Antonette C.
Published: June 2023

Background:

The emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in dengue-endemic regions has raised concern on the possibility of coinfection, especially in children who bear the highest burden of illness. This study determined the incidence and described the profile of Filipino children with SARS-CoV-2 and dengue coinfection, and compared disease severity and outcome in children with coinfection to a matched group of children with SARS-CoV-2 monoinfection.

Methods:

This was a retrospective matched cohort study of pediatric patients 0–18 years old diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 and dengue coinfection or SARS-CoV-2 monoinfection in the Philippines and reported to the Surveillance and Analysis of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Children Nationwide registry from March 01, 2020 to June 30, 2022.

Results:

A total of 3,341 SARS-CoV-2 infections in children were reported. The SARS-CoV-2 and dengue coinfection incidence is 4.34% (n = 145). We matched 120 coinfections to monoinfections according to age, gender and timing of infection. More coinfection cases were classified as mild or moderate COVID-19, whereas more asymptomatic cases were seen in those with monoinfection. Rates were similar for severe and critical COVID-19 in both groups. Coinfections predominantly presented with typical dengue symptoms rather than COVID-19 symptoms and laboratory parameters. No differences in outcomes were observed between coinfection and monoinfection. The case fatality rates are 6.7% for coinfection and 5.0% for monoinfection.

Conclusions:

One in every 25 SARS-CoV-2 infections had a dengue coinfection. Continued surveillance is needed to establish the interaction of SARS-CoV-2 and dengue virus, evaluate the impact of COVID-19 and/or dengue vaccination on coinfection and monitor complications of coinfection.
Refurbishment of Extracorporeal Life Support Oxygenators in the Context of In Vitro Testing
Authors: Strudthoff Lasse J. , Hesselmann Felix , Clauser Johanna C. , Arens Jutta
Published: June 2023

Refurbishing single use extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) oxygenators for in vitro research applications is common. However, the refurbishment protocols that are established in respective laboratories have never been evaluated. In the present study, we aim at proving the relevance of a well-designed refurbishing protocol by quantifying the burden of repeatedly reused oxygenators. We used the same three oxygenators in 5 days of 6 hours whole blood experiments. During each experiment day, the performance of the oxygenators was measured through the evaluation of gas transfer. Between experiment days, each oxygenator was refurbished applying three alternative refurbishment protocols based on purified water, pepsin and citric acid, and hydrogen peroxide solutions, respectively. After the last experiment day, we disassembled the oxygenators for visual inspection of the fiber mats. The refurbishment protocol based on purified water showed strong degeneration with a 40-50 %-performance drop and clearly visible debris on the fiber mats. Hydrogen peroxide performed better; nevertheless, it suffered a 20% decrease in gas transfer as well as clearly visible debris. Pepsin/citric acid performed best in the field, but also suffered from 10% performance loss and very few, but visible debris. The study showed the relevance of a well-suited and well-designed refurbishment protocol. The distinct debris on the fiber mats also suggests that reusing oxygenators is ill-advised for many experiment series, especially regarding hemocompatibility and in vivo testing. Most of all, this study revealed the relevance of stating the status of test oxygenators and, if refurbished, comment on the implemented refurbishment protocol in detail.
Development and Preliminary Validity Study of a Modified Version of the Upper Extremity Fugl-Meyer Assessment for Use in Telerehabilitation
Authors: Carmona Carolina , Sullivan Jane E. , Arceo Riegele , Drogos Justin , Besser Sofie , Gutierrez Susana , Jeteric Zineyra , Wyman James , Yao Jun
Published: June 2023

Background/Purpose:

The Upper Extremity Fugl-Meyer Assessment (UEFMA, maximum 66) is widely used in clinics and research studies to examine poststroke upper extremity (UE) impairment. This study aimed to develop and provide pilot data to support the validity of a remote version of the UEFMA to examine UE impairment after stroke through telerehabilitation.

Methods:

Team members developed a remote version of the UEFMA for telerehabilitation (tUEFMA, maximum 44) using subscales II to IV and VII of the UEFMA. Twenty-two participants with moderate to severe arm impairment (UEFMA, median = 19) and chronic stroke (>1 year post) were evaluated using the UEFMA (face-to-face) and the tUEFMA (remotely). A prediction equation was used to identify the function to predict the UEFMA based on the tUEFMA. Intraclass correlation (ICC) was used to test the absolute agreement between the subscales included in the UEFMA and the tUEFMA, and between their 2 normalized total scores.

Results:

A strong and significant agreement was found between the total scores of the UEFMA and the projected value based on the tUEFMA (ICC = 0.79, P < 0.05). The ICC test also reported a good agreement in subscales II to IV and a poor agreement in subscale VII between the UEFMA and the tUEFMA using a real-time video link.

Discussion and Conclusions:

The study findings suggest that the tUEFMA is a promising tool to remotely examine UE impairment in individuals with chronic stroke and moderate to severe arm impairment. Future research should evaluate additional psychometric properties and clinical utility of the tUEFMA across stroke participants with a broad range of arm impairments.

Video Abstract available for more insights from the authors (see the Video, Supplemental Digital Content 1, available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A441).
Comparison of Translocator Protein Expression Between Tumefactive Multiple Sclerosis and Glioblastoma
Authors: Jensen Per , Blinkenberg Morten , Pinborg Lars Hageman
Published: June 2023

This figure presents a comparison of molecular imaging of the translocator protein (TSPO) and contrast-enhanced MRI in 2 patients with tumefactive multiple sclerosis and glioblastoma, respectively. In the case of the tumefactive multiple sclerosis patient, TSPO uptake is primarily located centrally, while in the glioblastoma patient, TSPO uptake is predominantly situated peripherally to the central necrotic area. These findings suggest that TSPO imaging could be a noninvasive imaging technique for distinguishing between these 2 diagnoses.
SEPSIS UNIT IN THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT: IMPACT ON MANAGEMENT AND OUTCOME OF SEPTIC PATIENTS
Authors: Lafon Thomas , Baisse Arthur , Karam Henry Hani , Organista Alexandre , Boury Marion , Otranto Marcela , Blanchet Aloïse , Daix Thomas , François Bruno , Vignon Philippe
Published: June 2023

Study hypothesis: Implementation of a new pathway dedicated to septic patients within the emergency department (ED) would improve early management, organ dysfunction, and outcome. Methods: During phase 1, all consecutive adult patients with infection and qualifying quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (qSOFA) score upon ED admission were managed according to standards of care. A multifaceted intervention was then performed (implementation phase): educational program, creation of a sepsis alert upon ED admission incorporated in the professional software, together with severity scores and Surviving Sepsis Campaign (SSC) bundle reminders, and dedication of two rooms to the management of septic patients (sepsis unit). During phase 2, patients were managed according to this new organization. Results: Of the 89,040 patients admitted to the ED over the two phases, 2,643 patients (3.2%) had sepsis including 277 with a qualifying qSOFA score on admission (phase 1, 141 patients; phase 2, 136 patients). Recommendations of SSC 3-h bundle significantly improved between the two periods regarding lactate measurement (87% vs. 96%, P = 0.006), initiation of fluid resuscitation (36% vs. 65%, P < 0.001), blood cultures sampling (83% vs. 93%, P = 0.014), and administration of antibiotics (18% vs. 46%, P < 0.001). The Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score between H0 and H12 varied significantly more during phase 2 (1.9 ± 1.9 vs. 0.8 ± 2.6, P < 0.001). Mortality significantly decreased during the second phase, on day 3 (28% vs. 15%, P = 0.008) and on day 28 (40% vs. 28%, P = 0.013). Conclusion: Systematic detection, education, and per protocol organization with a sepsis unit dedicated to the early management of septic patients appear to improve compliance with SSC bundles, organ dysfunction, and short-term mortality. These results warrant to be confirmed by prospective studies.
Optic Neuritis After COVID-19 Vaccination: An Analysis of the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System
Authors: Jaffry Mustafa , Aftab Owais M. , Mostafa Fahad B. , Faiz Iqra , Jaffry Kazim , Mandava Kranthi , Rosario Sanjana , Jedidi Kamel , Khan Hafiz , Souayah Nizar
Published: June 2023

Background:

To investigate the association of optic neuritis (ON) after the COVID-19 vaccines.

Methods:

Cases of ON from Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) were collected and divided into the prepandemic, COVID-19 pandemic, and COVID-19 vaccine periods. Reporting rates were calculated based on estimates of vaccines administered. Proportion tests and Pearson χ2 test were used to determine significant differences in reporting rates of ON after vaccines within the 3 periods. Kruskal–Wallis testing with Bonferroni-corrected post hoc analysis and multivariable binary logistic regression was used to determine significant case factors such as age, sex, concurrent multiple sclerosis (MS) and vaccine manufacturer in predicting a worse outcome defined as permanent disability, emergency room (ER) or doctor visits, and hospitalizations.

Results:

A significant increase in the reporting rate of ON after COVID-19 vaccination compared with influenza vaccination and all other vaccinations (18.6 vs 0.2 vs 0.4 per 10 million, P < 0.0001) was observed. However, the reporting rate was within the incidence range of ON in the general population. Using self-controlled and case-centered analyses, there was a significant difference in the reporting rate of ON after COVID-19 vaccination between the risk period and control period (P < 0.0001). Multivariable binary regression with adjustment for confounding variables demonstrated that only male sex was significantly associated with permanent disability.

Conclusions:

Some cases of ON may be temporally associated with the COVID-19 vaccines; however, there is no significant increase in the reporting rate compared with the incidence. Limitations of this study include those inherent to any passive surveillance system. Controlled studies are needed to establish a clear causal relationship.
Osteohistology reveals the smallest adult Jurassic sauropodomorph
Authors: Chapelle Kimberley E. J. , Botha Jennifer , Choiniere Jonah N.
Published: June 2023

The earliest sauropodomorphs were small omnivores (less than 10 kg) that first appeared in the Carnian. By the Hettangian, early branching sauropodomorphs (EBSMs) were globally distributed, had variable postures, and some attained large body masses (greater than 10 tonnes). Small-bodied EBSMs like
Massospondylus carinatus
(less than 550 kg) persist at least until the Pliensbachian at nearly all dinosaur-bearing localities worldwide but are comparatively low in alpha diversity. One potential reason for this is competition with other similarly sized contemporary amniotes, including Triassic gomphodont cynodonts, Jurassic early branching ornithischians, herbivorous theropods and potentially early crocodylomorphs. Today's herbivorous mammals show a range of body size classes (less than 10 g to 7 tonnes), with multiple species of small herbivorous mammals (less than 100 kg) frequently co-occurring. Comparatively, our understanding of the phylogenetic distribution of body mass in Early Jurassic strata, and its explanatory power for the lower thresholds of body mass in EBSMs, needs more data. We osteohistologically sectioned a small humerus, BP/1/4732, from the upper Elliot Formation of South Africa. Its comparative morphology and osteohistology show that it represents a skeletally mature individual of a new sauropodomorph taxon with a body mass of approx. 75.35 kg. This makes it one of the smallest known sauropodomorph taxa, and the smallest ever reported from a Jurassic stratum.
The physics of dancing peanuts in beer
Authors: Pereira Luiz , Wadsworth Fabian B. , Vasseur Jérémie , Schmid Markus , Thivet Simon , Nuernberg Rafael B. , Dingwell Donald B.
Published: June 2023

In Argentina, some people add peanuts to their beer. Once immersed, the peanuts initially sink part way down into the beer before bubbles nucleate and grow on the peanut surfaces and remain attached. The peanuts move up and down within the beer glass in many repeating cycles. In this work, we propose a physical description of this dancing peanuts spectacle. We break down the problem into component physical phenomena, providing empirical constraint of each: (i) heterogeneous bubble nucleation occurs on peanut surfaces and this is energetically preferential to nucleation on the beer glass surfaces; (ii) peanuts enshrouded in attached bubbles are positively buoyant in beer above a critical attached gas volume; (iii) at the beer top surface, bubbles detach and pop, facilitated by peanut rotations and rearrangements; (iv) peanuts containing fewer bubbles are then negatively buoyant in beer and sink; and (v) the process repeats so long as the beer remains sufficiently supersaturated in the gas phase for continued nucleation. We used laboratory experiments and calculations to support this description, including constraint of the densities and wetting properties of the beer–gas–peanut system. We draw analogies between this peanut dance cyclicity and industrial and natural processes of wide interest, ultimately concluding that this bar-side phenomenon can be a vehicle for understanding more complex, applied systems of general interest and utility.
Evaluation and Treatment of Severe SARS-CoV-2 Pneumonia: A Scoping Review
Authors: Li Xiyue , Huang Jianbo
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Severe SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia remains incompletely understood. We aimed to summarize current evidence regarding clinical features, laboratory findings, and treatment of severe pneumonia.

Methods

Online databases were searched from December 1, 2019, to April 15, 2020 related to SARS-CoV-2. The titles and abstracts in English or Chinese for articles were screened. Studies containing more than 10 adult patients with severe pneumonia and presenting data on clinical features and laboratory findings were selected and extracted independently by two reviewers.

Results

We identified a total of 13 articles including one from Italy representing the majority of cases, and the remainder from China. Over the 2,129 severe pneumonia in these 13 articles, the mean ages ranged from 49 to 64 years. Patients typically presented with hypertension as the most common comorbid factor, fever as the most common symptom, and acute respiratory distress syndrome as the most common complication. As compared to non-severe pneumonia, severe pneumonia featured lower counts of lymphocytes, CD8+ and CD4+ T cells, and higher levels of D-dimer, lactate dehydrogenase, IL-6 and IL-10. There is a lack of evidence for using antivirals, and a debate on using corticosteroids in treatment.

Conclusions

This is the first systematic summarization of the aspects of severe pneumonia. Older age, comorbidities, laboratory findings might be the predisposing factors of disease severity. Multicenter- and large population-designed studies, with confounding controlled and long enough to accommodate follow-ups, are urgently required to provide the guidance to disease management.
Detuning of the Ribosome Conformational Landscape Promotes Antibiotic Resistance and Collateral Sensitivity
Authors: Mesa Pablo , Jiménez-Fernández Alicia , Rosa Ruggero La , Espinosa Rocio , Johansen Helle Krogh , Molin Søren , Montoya Guillermo
Published: June 2023

Around 50% of the current antibiotic arsenal targets the ribosome, thus resistance to ribosome-targeting antibiotics poses severe challenges to antimicrobial treatments. Here, we characterize a 12-nucleotide deletion in therplFgene encoding the uL6 ribosomal protein, which was identified in a tobramycin-resistant strain ofPseudomonas aeruginosaisolated from a cystic fibrosis patient. To understand this resistance, we determined 87 cryo-EM structures of wild-type and mutant ribosomes characterizing their conformational landscape. Our analysis reveals how detuning of the ribosome dynamics alters its rotational movement circumventing tobramycin inhibition. The mutation compromises the 50S assembly, triggering structural instability and inducing a different rotational dynamic of the 70S. We found 4 new binding sites of tobramycin, one of them exclusive of the mutant, where the binding of the antibiotic acts as an allosteric activator skipping inhibition. Our data also illustrate how chloramphenicol stabilizes the mutant ribosome, enhancing inhibition and thereby leading to collateral sensitivity.
Structural basis for flagellin induced NAIP5 activation
Authors: Paidimuddala Bhaskar , Cao Jianhao , Zhang Liman
Published: June 2023

The NAIP/NLRC4 inflammasome is activated when NAIP binds to a gram-negative bacterial ligand. Initially, NAIP exists in an inactive state with a wide-open conformation. Upon ligand binding, the winged helix domain (WHD) of NAIP is activated and forms steric clash with NLRC4 to open it up. However, how ligand binding induces the conformational change of NAIP is less clear. To understand this process, we investigated the dynamics of the ligand binding region of inactive NAIP5 and solved the cryo-EM structure of NAIP5 in complex with its specific ligand, FliC from flagellin, at 2.93 Å resolution. The structure revealed a “trap and lock” mechanism in FliC recognition, whereby FliC-D0Cis first trapped by the hydrophobic pocket of NAIP5, then locked in the binding site by the insertion domain (ID) and C-terminal tail (CTT) of NAIP5. The FliC-D0Ndomain further inserts into the loop of ID to stabilize the complex. According to this mechanism, FliC activates NAIP5 by bringing multiple flexible domains together, particularly the ID, HD2, and LRR domains, to form the active conformation and support the WHD loop in triggering NLRC4 activation.
Haplotype-phased genome revealed the butylphthalide biosynthesis and hybrid origin ofLigusticum chuanxiong
Authors: Nie Bao , Chen Xueqing , Hou Zhuangwei , Li Cheng , Sun Wenkai , Ji Jiaojiao , Zang Lanlan , Yang Song , Fan Pengxiang , Zhang Wenhao , Li Hang , Tan Yuzhu , Li Wei , Wang Li
Published: June 2023

Butylphthalide, one type of phthalides, is one of the first-line drugs for ischemic stroke therapy, while no enzyme involved in its biosynthesis pathway has been reported. Here, we present the first haplotype-resolved genome ofLigusticum chuanxiongHort., a long-cultivated and phthalide-rich medicinal plant in Apiaceae. Based on comprehensive candidate gene screening, four Fe (II)- and 2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases (2OGDs) and two CYPs were mined and further biochemically verified as phthalide C-4/C-5 desaturase (P4,5Ds) that converts senkyunolide A to l-n-butylphthalide (l-NBP) and ligustilide to butylidenephthalide. The substrate promiscuity and functional redundancy featured for P4,5Ds may contribute to the high phthalide diversity inL. chuanxiong. Notably, comparative genomic evidence supportedL. chuanxiongas a diploid hybrid withL. sinenseas a potential parent. The two haplotypes demonstrated exceptional structure variance and diverged around 3.42 million years ago (Ma). Our study is an icebreaker for the dissection of phthalide biosynthesis pathway and reveals the hybrid origin ofL. chuanxiong. These findings will facilitate the future metabolic engineering for l-NBP production and breeding efforts forL. chuanxiong.
Pulsed ultrasound promotes secretion of anti-inflammatory extracellular vesicles from skeletal myotubes via elevation of intracellular calcium level
Authors: Yamaguchi Atomu , Maeshige Noriaki , Noguchi Hikari , Yan Jiawei , Ma Xiaoqi , Uemura Mikiko , Su Dongming , Kondo Hiroyo , Sarosiek Kristopher , Fujino Hidemi
Published: June 2023

The regulation of inflammatory responses is an important intervention in biological function and macrophages play an essential role during inflammation. Skeletal muscle is the largest organ in the human body and releases various factors which mediate anti-inflammatory/immune modulatory effects. Recently, the roles of extracellular vesicles (EVs) from a large variety of cells are reported. In particular, EVs released from skeletal muscle are attracting attention due to their therapeutic effects on dysfunctional organs and tissues. Also, ultrasound (US) promotes release of EVs from skeletal muscle. In this study, we investigated the output parameters and mechanisms of US-induced EV release enhancement and the potential of US-treated skeletal muscle-derived EVs in the regulation of inflammatory responses in macrophages. High-intensity US (3.0 W/cm2) irradiation increased EV secretion via elevating intracellular Ca2+level without negative effects. Moreover, US-induced EVs suppressed expression levels of pro-inflammatory factors in macrophages. miRNA sequencing analysis revealed that miR-206-3p and miR-378a-3p were especially abundant in skeletal myotube-derived EVs. In this study we demonstrated that high-intensity US promotes the release of anti-inflammatory EVs from skeletal myotubes and exert anti-inflammatory effects on macrophages.
Digital twins in MOOCs: exploring ways to enhance interactivity
Authors: Lexman Rahul R. , Baral Rupashree
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this conceptual paper is to inform the administrators, designers, trainers and scholars, and encourage conversations on the role of digital twin technologies in enhancing interactivity in the context of massive open online courses (MOOCs).

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on a review of literature, this article highlights the concept of digital twins and discusses its potential applications on enhancing interactivity in MOOCs.

Findings

Findings of this conceptual paper highlights the significance of the emerging industry 4.0 technologies such as digital twins, in enhancing interactivity in a MOOC environment. Implementation of modern technologies such as digital twins and AI in MOOCs could guarantee access to comprehensive and equitable quality education and could expand the scope of lifelong learning for everyone.

Practical implications

This conceptual paper is particularly relevant to the post-pandemic context where organizations and educational institutions have both adopted a hybrid mode of learning. Inclusion of the interactive elements may provide better insights to the platform administrators, designers, trainers and to enhance levels of learner engagement in MOOC environments. Moreover, effective utilization of these technology driven learning models in future may have larger impacts in catering to meet the sustainable development goal (SDG-4) towards provision of quality education.

Originality/value

While past studies focused more on the conceptualization of human-to-human interactivity, the facets of human-to-platform interactivity remained largely unexplored. To our understanding, this paper is one of the initial attempts to conceptually highlight the applications of digital-twin technology to enhance human to platform interactivity in a MOOC context.
Leadership inclusion theory: a grounded theory study on hotel executives
Authors: Russen Michelle , Dawson Mary , Madera Juan M. , Kitterlin-Lynch Miranda , Abbott Jéanna L.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to develop a theory that explains how organizations can create a more inclusive atmosphere on the individual, organizational and societal levels. The consequences of an inclusive environment were subsequently developed and explored.

Design/methodology/approach

Constructivist grounded theory methods were used to collect and analyze data from interviews with 20 hotel executives and their company websites.

Findings

The findings of this study produced a theoretical framework for inclusion in hotel leadership, leadership inclusion theory (LIT). The LIT states organizations must address individual differences, organizational policies and culture and societal norms to develop an inclusive environment. Equity follows inclusion as the value for individual differences makes equitable treatment easier. Finally, diversity increases through increased inclusion and equity.

Practical implications

The LIT describes steps for managers to take to develop an inclusive environment, establish equitable practices and increase diversity within an organization.

Social implications

The LIT highlights several unintended exclusion practices and generational attitudes that are common among organizations. By making conscious efforts, managers can take deliberate actions to establish a perceived environment of equality.

Originality/value

The LIT is a seminal theory-building effort grounded in hospitality. It explains the when and why of several phenomena related to inequality in the hotel industry and how to overcome such imbalances.
Cross-segment validation of customer support for AI-based service robots at luxury, fine-dining, casual, and quick-service restaurants
Authors: Wang Yao-Chin , Papastathopoulos Avraam
Published: June 2023

Purpose

With the trend of adopting and studying artificial intelligence (AI) service robots at restaurants, the authors’ understanding of how customers perceive robots differently across restaurant segments remains limited. Therefore, building upon expectancy theory, this study aims to propose a trust-based mechanism to explain customers’ support for AI-based service robots.

Design/methodology/approach

For cross-segment validation, data were collected from online survey participants under the scenarios of experiencing AI service robots in luxury (n = 428), fine-dining (n = 420), casual (n = 409) and quick-service (n = 410) restaurant scenarios.

Findings

In all four segments, trust in technology increased willingness to accept AI service robots, which was then positively related to customers’ support for AI-based service robots. Meanwhile, customers’ AI performance expectancy mediated the relationship between trust in technology and willingness to accept AI service robots. On the other hand, at luxury, fine-dining and casual restaurants, males perceived a stronger positive relationship between trust in technology and AI performance expectancy. No generational differences were found in the four restaurant segments between trust in technology and AI performance expectancy.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is one of the first attempts in hospitality research to examine cross-segment validation of customers’ responses to AI-based service robots in the luxury, fine-dining, casual and quick-service restaurant segments.
CSR disclosure and state ownership: implications for earnings management and market value
Authors: Garanina Tatiana
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This paper explores the relationship between earnings management and firms' value through the moderating effect of the missing elements – corporate social responsibility (CSR) disclosure and state ownership in Russian companies. The main argument of the paper is that CSR disclosure can be used as a mitigating mechanism to weaken the negative relationship between earnings manipulation and market value. Additionally test whether state ownership is an important moderating factor in this relationship are conducted as state has always played an important role in the emerging Russian market.

Design/methodology/approach

The hypotheses are tested on panel data for 223 publicly listed Russian firms for the period 2012–2018. A number of robustness tests are used to check the obtained results for consistency. Following previous research GMM method is employed to address endogeneity concerns.

Findings

Supported by stakeholder theory, it is observed that firms that disclosed more CSR information experience a weaker negative relationship between earnings management and market value because investors and other stakeholders positively evaluate a positive CSR image. This negative effect of earnings management on market value is even weaker for state-owned companies as market participants appreciate involvement of state-owned companies in CSR activities and place greater expectations on these firms to be responsible without clear understanding whether these actions are “window dressing” for this type of companies or not.

Originality/value

The study results provide new insights into the relation between earnings management, firm's value, CSR disclosure and state ownership in emerging-market firms. The paper highlight the importance of considering country-specific factors, such as state ownership, while analysing the market reaction on CSR disclosure and earnings management since the institutional peculiarities may help to explain differences in the obtained results.
Knowledge seeking or sabotage? The effect of coworker relative overqualification on employee reaction from social comparison theory
Authors: Zhu Yanghao , Long Lirong , Xu Yunpeng , Zhang Yannan
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the phenomenon of knowledge transfer between employees and coworkers. That is, when and why employees engage in knowledge seeking or knowledge sabotage when confronted with coworkers with higher relative overqualification.

Design/methodology/approach

This study collected survey data from 315 employee-coworker pairs in East China at three-time points.

Findings

The results showed that when the cooperative goal interdependence between employee and coworker is high, the perception of coworker’s relative overqualification will cause benign envy of employees, which in turn promote employees to engage in knowledge seeking from coworker. However, when the competitive goal interdependence between employee and coworker is high, the perception of coworker’s relative overqualification will cause malicious envy of employees, which in turn promote employees to engage in knowledge sabotage toward coworker.

Originality/value

This research not only expands the theoretical perspective and outcomes of relative overqualification but also enriches the mechanism of knowledge seeking and knowledge sabotage. Meanwhile, this study also provides practical guidance for enterprises to reduce knowledge sabotage.
Libraries and librarians’ roles in ensuring cyberethical behaviour
Authors: Dunmade Aderinola Ololade , Tella Adeyinka
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the role of libraries and librarians in promoting appropriate cyberethical behaviour among postgraduate students in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

Using content analysis and a review of relevant literature, this study examines the challenges that librarians face in enforcing cyberethics and highlights the strategies that libraries can adopt to promote responsible online behaviour.

Findings

This paper identifies the lack of awareness among postgraduate students regarding cybersecurity risks and the need for training and resources for librarians as key challenges in promoting cyberethics.

Originality/value

This study recommends that libraries provide access to training resources and develop policies and guidelines to promote cyberethics among postgraduate students. Overall, this paper argues that libraries and librarians can play a critical role in promoting responsible online behaviour and ensuring the safety and security of postgraduate students in Nigeria.
Precipitation, rather than temperature drives coordination of multidimensional root traits with ectomycorrhizal fungi in alpine coniferous forests
Authors: Ding Junxiang , Yin Huajun , Kong Deliang , Liu Qing , Zhang Ziliang , Wang Qitong , Guo Wanji , Valverde‐Barrantes Oscar J. , Wang Junjian , Liu Zhanfeng
Published: June 2023

The interactions between roots and mycorrhizal fungi are critical for our understanding of the multidimensional root economics space. Our knowledge on their relationships comes mainly from arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) plants, and less is known about how roots are coordinated with ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungal communities, especially in ECM‐dominated alpine forests that are highly sensitive to climate change worldwide.

Here, we investigated the coordination between roots and ECM fungi and their drivers by measuring multiple root traits, ECM fungal composition and environmental factors of 47 coniferous populations across the alpine coniferous forests on the Tibetan Plateau.

Our results reveal two independent fine‐root trait dimensions, that is root foraging dimension and root uptake dimension, which are represented by root diameter‐specific root length, root tissue density‐root N concentration. Importantly, the hyphal exploration type based ECM foraging correlated significantly with both root foraging and root uptake dimension. Further, in the low temperature plateau, it is precipitation‐induced changes in soil moisture, soil nutrients and pH that drive the proportion of longer‐distance hyphal exploration types to increase with higher root foraging by higher specific root length, and to decrease with higher uptake by higher root N concentration.

Synthesis. The coordination of multidimensional root traits with ECM fungi differs greatly from the well‐recognized pattern in AM plants that mycorrhizal fungi connect predominantly with root foraging and that roots and mycorrhizal fungi are temperature sensitive. These findings provide a new insight for our holistic understanding of how roots and mycorrhizal fungi vary collaboratively and hence driving plant community assembly and responses to the changing climate.
Assessment of environmental footprint using geospatial approach to ascertain the Sustainable Development Goal 2030s of India
Authors: Sharma Laxmi Kant , Aarav Pranjal , Sharma Shweta , Raj Alok
Published: June 2023

Utilization of natural resources has multiplied globally, resulting in serious environmental deterioration and impeding the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). For the harmonious development of human nourishment and the balance of nature, it is vital to evaluate environmental segments' resource usage, transformation, and residue, referred to as ‘footprint,’ in order to highlight carrying capacity and sustainability. This analysis highlights the Environmental Footprint (EF) of India per state from 2010 to 2020 in terms of hectares per capita. This study evaluates India's biological, hydrological, energy, ecological, and pollution footprints, carrying capacity, environmental pressure, and environmental deficit using 17 distinct parameters categorized under the themes of biological resource, hydrological resource, energy resource, and pollution concentration. We proposed a reoriented methodology and EF concepts that determine India's footprint, carrying capacity, nature of sustainability, environmental pressure index, and its consequential links to the 2030 SDGs. As a result, the biological resources contributed to ~50% of the environmental footprint, while hydrological, energy, and pollutants made up the remaining. Between 2010 and 2020, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal had the highest EF, while Jammu and Kashmir and the north‐eastern provinces had the lowest. During the research period, the ecological deficit in India has increased overall. India impedes the 2030 SDGs; therefore, the study provides a picture of resource consumption, waste generation, economic growth, and societal changes, enabling academics and policymakers to redefine or document policy for a more sustainable future.
Inflammatory response after out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest—Impact on outcome and organ failure development
Authors: Seppä Asser M. J. , Skrifvars Markus B. , Pekkarinen Pirkka T.
Published: June 2023

Background

Post‐cardiac arrest syndrome that occurs in out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) patients is characterized by inflammatory response. We conducted a scoping review of current evidence regarding several inflammatory markers' usefulness for assessment of patient outcome and illness severity. We also discuss the proposed underlying mechanisms leading to inflammatory response after OHCA.

Methods

We searched the MEDLINE, PubMed Central, Cochrane CENTRAL and Web of Science Core Collection databases with the following search terms: (“inflammation” OR “cytokines”) AND “out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest.” Each inflammatory marker found was combined with “out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest” using “AND” to find further relevant studies. We included original studies measuring inflammatory markers in adult OHCA patients that assessed their prognostic capabilities for mortality, neurological outcome, or organ failure severity.

Results

Fifty‐nine studies met the inclusion criteria, covering in total 65 different markers. Interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), procalcitonin (PCT) and C‐reactive protein (CRP) were the most studied markers, and they were associated with poor outcomes in 13/15, 13/14 and 11/17 studies, respectively. Based on area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) value, the time point of best discriminatory capacity for poor outcome was ICU admission for IL‐6 (median AUC 0.78, range 0.71–0.98) and day one after OHCA for PCT (median AUC 0.84, range 0.61–0.98). Seven studies reported AUCs for CRP (range 0.52–0.76) with no measurement time point being superior to others. The association of IL‐6 and PCT with outcome appeared stronger in studies with more severely ill patients. Studies reported conflicting results regarding each marker's association with organ failure severity.

Conclusion

Inflammatory markers are potentially useful for early risk stratification after OHCA. PCT and IL‐6 have moderate prognostic value during the first 24 h of the ICU stay. Predictive accuracy appears to be associated with the study overall event rate.
Ancient white and grey marbles from Aphrodisias: multi‐method characterization
Authors: Wielgosz‐Rondolino Dagmara , Antonelli Fabrizio , Bojanowski Maciej J. , Degryse Patrick , Gładki Marcin , Göncüoğlu Mehmet Cemal , Lazzarini Lorenzo , Long Leah , Mandera Sara
Published: June 2023

The paper presents the results of the archaeometric investigation, conducted for the first time with the use of a wide range of analytical methods, on white and grey marbles exploited in the so‐called City and Regional Quarries of Aphrodisias (south‐western Turkey). The research, based on a multi‐method approach and performed on a representative set of samples, was aimed to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the most important properties of Aphrodisian marbles. The material studied here shows a large overlap in petrographic and geochemical features among the marbles exploited in local and regional quarries, as well as with most of the widespread marbles used in Antiquity. Surprisingly, none of the methods used here, either by themselves or used in combination, is sufficient to discriminate reliably between Aphrodisian and other marble types (mainly Paros‐Lakkoi and Prokonnesos), as well as between marbles extracted from the City and Regional Quarries. The only provenance indicator is the depleted δ13C values below +0.5‰ for the grey variety from sectors AF3 and AF9, which constitute 15% of collected samples. The presumed international use of Aphrodisian marbles may be difficult to verify based on these indistinct outcomes. Another important element of the study are the topographical measurements used to estimate the volume of extracted material.