bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using confocal imaging to measure changes in intracellular ions
Authors: Bkaily Ghassan , Jacques Danielle , Hassan Ghada , Choufani Sanaa , D’Orléans-Juste Pedro
Published: November 2023

Until the development of three-dimensional (3D) imaging, many questions were raised concerning ion traffic and localization, but these were never fully answered because of the absence of a technique enabling the visualization of dye distribution at the 3D level. The recent development and use of confocal microscopy, coupled to high performance hardware and software systems, has provided scientists with the capability of overcoming some of the limitations of standard microscopic imaging measurements. Until recently, access to confocal microscopy was fairly limited. Today, the majority of laboratories dealing with molecular and cell biology, pharmacology, biophysics, biochemistry, etc., are equipped with this powerful scientific tool. This increase in the need for confocal microscopy has been highly supported by a growing industry for developing new fluorescent probes. However, in order to optimize this technique, scientists need to be familiar with the basic approaches and limitations of confocal microscopy. In this chapter, we will discuss sample preparation, labelling of structures and functional probes, the settings of parameters, development of specific ligand probes, as well as protocols for measurements and limitations of the technique. For further information, the reader should refer to recent key references (1-4).
Postpartum Extended-Release Buprenorphine Tissue Necrosis
Authors: Kurtz Theresa , Charles Jasmin E. , Schwartz Megan , Smid Marcela C
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND:

Extended-release buprenorphine (XRB) may improve medication for opioid use disorder continuation among postpartum individuals. However, obstetric clinicians have relatively little experience with XRB. We describe two cases of XRB-related tissue necrosis in postpartum individuals to highlight recommended injection technique and management strategies for this rare complication.

CASES:

One patient developed tissue necrosis after her initial injection. Her wound was expectantly managed. Another patient on long-term XRB developed tissue necrosis within 1 day of injection. General surgery excised the depot. Both instances were attributed to injection of XRB intradermally rather than subcutaneously. Both patients continued monthly XRB without recurrence, suggesting that this complication is not an allergy.

CONCLUSION:

Clinicians should be able to prevent, recognize, and manage tissue necrosis, a rare complication of XRB injection.
Efficacy and safety profiles of dolutegravir plus lamivudine vs. bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide in therapy-naïve adults with HIV-1
Authors: Wei Yinghua , Li Jin , Xu Ruhong , Wen Li , Deng Yiming , He Lixia , Zhong Huijun , Wang Yanhao
Published: November 2023

Background:

Dual regimen dolutegravir (DTG) plus lamivudine (3TC) has demonstrated non-inferior efficacy compared to DTG-based three-drug regimens (3DRs), yet directly comparative data regarding the efficacy and safety of DTG + 3TC and bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide (B/F/TAF) for therapy-naïve people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 (PWH) are still limited. We aimed to assess the antiviral potency and safety profiles of DTG + 3TC vs. B/F/TAF based on antiretroviral therapy (ART)-naïve PWH in China.

Methods:

This retrospective multicenter study enrolled PWH initiating ART with DTG + 3TC or B/F/TAF from 2020 to 2022 in Guangdong and Guangxi. We analyzed response rates based on target not detected (TND) status using intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis. Subgroups were formed based on baseline viral load (VL) (<100,000 vs. ≥100,000 copies/mL) and CD4+ cell count (<200 vs. ≥200 cell/µL). Median time to TND VL was assessed by Kaplan–Meier method. We also measured changes from baseline in CD4+ cell counts, CD4/CD8 ratio, lipid parameters, weight, creatinine (Cr), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and drug-related adverse effects (DRAEs).

Results:

We enrolled 280 participants, including 137 (48.9%) on DTG + 3TC and 143 (51.1%) on B/F/TAF. At week 48, 96.4% (132/137) on DTG+3TC and 100% (143/143) on B/F/TAF achieved TND (P = 0.064). At week 12, TND responses were higher with B/F/TAF (78.3% [112/143]) than DTG+3TC (30.7% [42/137]) (P <0.001). This trend held across subgroups. B/F/TAF achieved TND faster (12 weeks) than DTG+3TC (24 weeks) (P <0.001). No differences were seen in CD4+ cell count and CD4/CD8 ratio, except in the high-VL subgroup, where B/F/TAF showed better recovery. DRAEs were significantly lower with B/F/TAF (4.9% [7/143]) than with DTG + 3TC (13.1% [18/137]) (P = 0.016). Lipid parameters, body weight, and Cr increased in both groups over 48 weeks, with DTG+3TC showing a more favorable effect on triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and weight gain.

Conclusions:

In this real-life study, B/F/TAF led to a faster viral decline and fewer DRAEs compared to DTG+3TC. No significant difference was observed in the TND rate at week 48, regardless of baseline VL and CD4+ cell count. CD4+ recovery was superior for B/F/TAF in participants with high VL. The DTG + 3TC regimen had less impact on metabolic changes than B/F/TAF.
Cutibacterium acnes in Atopic Dermatitis: Roles and Potential Therapeutic Applications
Authors: Yu Tian-ze , Li Wei
Published: November 2023

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic relapsing inflammatory skin disease. Skin microbiota disorder, skin barrier dysfunction, and predominantly elevated type 2 immune responses are core initiate mechanisms of AD. Cutibacterium acnes (C. acnes) is a commensal bacterium that is ubiquitous and predominant in healthy skin, with intraspecific subtype diversity. The abundance of C. acnes is closely related to the sebum secreted by sebaceous glands. C. acnes has long been considered a pro-inflammatory skin bacteria that drives the development of acne vulgaris. Growing evidence supports C. acnes promotes the skin microbiota homeostasis and skin barrier maintenance, while the potential role of C. acnes in AD remains largely unexamined. This review provides the latest information on the distribution of C. acnes and its phylotypes in healthy skin and AD, meanwhile offering an overview of the possible role of C. acnes in the pathophysiological pathways underlying AD. Additionally, the review focuses on new evidence regarding the protective functions of C. acnes and its metabolites in AD, with the potential for therapeutic applications.
A mixed-methods pilot examination of Montana, North Dakota nurse practitioner telepresence behaviors through web-camera eye-tracking and qualitative descriptive interviews
Authors: Johnson Elizabeth A. , Strauch Kimberly A.
Published: November 2023

Background:

The use of telehealth for mental health–related encounters has increased exponentially since the COVID-19 pandemic. However, little is known how nurse practitioners (NPs) in rural areas establish connection and presence with patients through telehealth.

Purpose:

To leverage web-camera eye-tracking technology coupled with qualitative interviews to better understand rural NPs' perceptions, beliefs, experiences, and visual cues of connection and presence during mental health–related telehealth encounters.

Methods:

This mixed-methods study employed web-camera eye-tracking technology to measure eye contact, facial/body movements with microexpressions, and auditory expressions during a simulated mental health–related telehealth visit. A qualitative descriptive methodology was used to conduct semistructured interviews with participants regarding utilization of telehealth in rural mental health care delivery. Sticky software, R, and STATA were used for the quantitative eye-tracking and demographic data analyses. Qualitative findings were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis.

Results:

Ten NPs participated in the eye-tracking aspect of the study; among them, three completed semistructured interviews. Eye-tracking areas of interest were significant for the number of fixations (p = .005); number of visits (p < .001); time until notice (p < .001); and time viewed (p < .001). The category Workflow had the greatest number of thematic units (n = 21) derived from semistructured interviews.

Conclusions:

Although an accessible means of obtaining data, web-camera eye tracking poses challenges with data usability. This prompts further attention to research, optimizing the telehealth milieu to lessen patient and provider frustrations with technological or environmental issues.

Implications:

Nurse practitioners provide a key voice in the design and deployment of telehealth platforms congruent with the comprehensive assessment and presence of remote care delivery.
Severe Methotrexate Toxicity Following a Capizzi Cycle in an Obese Adolescent With Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and Hepatic Steatosis
Authors: Fischer Julie M. , Lertkovit Oranooj , Howard Scott C. , Assanasen Chatchawin , Bleyer Archie
Published: November 2023

Methotrexate is a major component of pediatric leukemia treatment. While toxicities are common after high-dose methotrexate, escalating dose methotrexate (Capizzi methotrexate) is typically well-tolerated. We report an adolescent Hispanic female with pre-B acute lymphoblastic leukemia, preexisting obesity and hepatic steatosis who developed severe multiorgan failure following an escalating dose of methotrexate with delayed methotrexate excretion of 11 days. We identified one similar report in an obese adult; however, this case is the first to our knowledge involving a pediatric patient. With the rising incidence of obesity and associated comorbidities among children and adolescents with leukemia, attention to potential risks for this population is warranted.
Cerebrospinal fluid pleocytosis is associated with HIV-1 neuroinvasion during acute infection
Authors: Chan Phillip , Moreland Sarah , Sacdalan Carlo , Kroon Eugene , Colby Donn , Sriplienchan Somchai , Pinyakorn Suteeraporn , Phanuphak Nittaya , Jagodzinski Linda , Valcour Victor , Vasan Sandhya , Paul Robert , Trautmann Lydie , Spudich Serena ,   on behalf of the RV254/SEARCH 010 Study Team
Published: November 2023

Objective:

HIV-1 invades the brain within days post-transmission. This study quantitated cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) white blood cell count (WBC) and investigated whether it associated with plasma and CSF HIV-1 RNA during untreated acute HIV infection (AHI).

Design:

Seventy participants underwent lumbar puncture during Fiebig stages I–V AHI.

Method:

WBC and HIV-1 RNA with a lower limit of quantification (LLQ) of 80 copies/ml were measured in CSF.

Results:

Sixty-nine (99%) participants were men, with a median age of 26. Their blood CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell counts were 335 [interquartile range (IQR) 247–553) and 540 (IQR 357–802) cells/μl, respectively. Forty-five (64%) were in Fiebig stages III–V whereas 25 (36%) were in Feibig stages I–II. Fifty-two (74%) experienced acute retroviral syndrome. Median plasma and CSF HIV-1 RNA were 6.10 (IQR 5.15–6.78) and 3.15 (IQR 1.90–4.11) log10 copies/ml, respectively. Sixteen (23%) CSF samples had HIV-1 RNA below LLQ. Median CSF WBC was 2.5 (IQR 1–8) cells/μl. CSF pleocytosis (WBC >5) was observed in 33% and was only present in CSF samples with detectable HIV-1 RNA. The frequencies of CSF pleocytosis during Fiebig stages III–V and among CSF samples of higher viral load (>1000 copies/ml) were 42 and 45%, respectively. Pleocytosis independently associated with CSF HIV-1 RNA in multivariate analysis [adjusted coefficient: 0.79, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.41–1.14), P < 0.001] and a lower plasma to CSF HIV-1 RNA ratio (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

CSF pleocytosis was present in one-third of participants with AHI. It associated with higher CSF HIV-1 RNA and a lower plasma to CSF HIV-1 RNA ratio, suggesting a potential association with HIV-1 neuroinvasion.
Representation of Women Authorship in the Top 5 Transplantation Journals in the United States
Authors: Faria Isabella , Montalvan Adriana , Kazimi Marwan , Martins Paulo N. , Eckhoff Devin
Published: November 2023

Background.

In the United States, only 13% of transplant surgeons are women. We evaluated gender distribution and trends of American authorship over the past 10 y in high-impact solid organ transplantation journals to gain insight into the current status of women authorship in transplantation.

Methods.

Original articles from 2012 to 2021 from the 5 highest-impact solid organ transplantation journals were extracted from Scopus. First and last author’s gender was predicted using Genderize.io. Data of first and last authors, article type and topic, location, citation, and funding metrics were analyzed. Chi-square, logistic regression, and trend tests were performed where appropriate. Statistical significance was set at <0.05.

Results.

Women’s first and last authorship increased over time among all journals. There was an increase in women first authors in the American Journal of Transplantation and in senior women authors in Liver Transplantation and Transplantation. Significant differences in gender authorship in lung, intestine, pancreas, general, and islet cell transplantation were found. Women’s last authorship was associated with 1.69 higher odds of having a woman first author when adjusting for year and journal. There was an increase in the rate of women’s first and last author collaborations over the years. Women last authors had 1.5 higher odds of being funded by the National Institutes of Health over the years.

Conclusions.

Despite an increase in women transplant surgeons and physicians, the gap in women authorship in transplantation persists. Women’s last authorship was associated with higher odds of having a woman first author, pointing to the importance of mentorship for women joining the transplant academia.
A Longitudinal Evaluation of the Pattern of Social Cognition Impairment in Brazilians With Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Belfort Almeida dos Santos Tatiana Teresa , Nogueira Marcela Moreira Lima , Lacerda Isabel Barbeito , Brandt Michelle , de Lucena Aline Tavares , Rangel Rogeria , Gaigher Julia , Oliveira Felipe , Dourado Marcia Cristina Nascimento
Published: November 2023

Background:

Social cognition (SC) impairments contribute to the dependence of people with Alzheimer disease (AD), influencing their functional disability and the burden on family members and caregivers. Our objective was to longitudinally investigate the relationship between SC and cognitive and clinical variables in persons with AD and their caregivers. We also evaluated the different SC predictors from 3 perspectives: people with AD, caregivers of people with AD, and discrepancy analysis.

Methods:

In all, 137 dyads (people with AD and their caregivers) underwent 2 assessments: at baseline (M1) and after 1 year (M2). During follow-up, 58 dyads were excluded, and the study was thus concluded with 79.

Results:

Longitudinal analysis of the people with AD showed that while some cognitive functions declined (which is consistent with disease progression), SC impairments showed a more stable pattern. Another interesting result was related to SC predictors. For people with AD, SC was associated with cognition at both time points. For caregivers, besides cognition, other predictors included reduced functional abilities and quality of life in people with AD. These results are consistent with the discrepancy predictors.

Conclusion:

The stable pattern in SC functioning over 12 months in AD suggests that this neurocognitive domain may be influenced more by emotional processing than by cognitive impairment. In addition, the SC predictors showed that the investigation of different points of view enables a more global understanding, contributing to better and more targeted treatment for the patient.
Bacillus mexicanus sp. nov., a biological control bacterium isolated from the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) crop in Sinaloa, Mexico
Authors: de los Santos Villalobos Sergio , Félix Pablos Carmen María , Valenzuela Ruiz Valeria , Parra Cota Fannie I.
Published: November 2023

Strain FSQ1T was isolated from the rhizosphere of the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) crop sampled in a commercial field located in the Gabriel Leyva Solano community, which belongs to the Guasave municipality (state of Sinaloa, Mexico). Based on its full-length 16S rRNA gene sequence, strain FSQ1T was assigned to the genus

Bacillus

(100 % similarity). This taxonomic affiliation was supported by its morphological and metabolic traits. Strain FSQ1T was a Gram-stain-positive bacterium with the following characteristics: rod-shaped cells, strictly aerobic, spore forming, catalase positive, reduced nitrate to nitrite, hydrolysed starch and casein, grew in the presence of lysozyme and 2 % NaCl, utilized citrate, grew at pH 6.0–8.0, produced acid from glucose, was unable to produce indoles from tryptophan, and presented biological control against Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. The whole-genome phylogenetic results showed that strain FSQ1T formed an individual clade in comparison with highly related

Bacillus

species. In addition, the maximum values for average nucleotide identity and from Genome-to-Genome Distance Calculator analysis were 91.57 and 44.20 %, respectively, with

Bacillus spizizenii

TU-B-10T. Analysis of its fatty acid content showed the ability of strain FSQ1T to produce fatty acids that are not present in closely related

Bacillus

species, such as C18 : 0 and C20 : 0. Thus, these results provide strong evidence that strain FSQ1T represents a novel species of the genus

Bacillus

, for which the name Bacillus mexicanus sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is FSQ1T (CM-CNRG TB51T=LBPCV FSQ1T).
Kitasatospora fiedleri sp. nov., a novel antibiotic-producing member of the genus Kitasatospora
Authors: Zimmermann Alina , Nouioui Imen , Pötter Gabriele , Neumann-Schaal Meina , Wolf Jacqueline , Wibberg Daniel , Mast Yvonne
Published: November 2023

Strain TÜ4103T was originally sampled from Java, Indonesia and deposited in the Tübingen strain collection under the name ‘

Streptomyces

sp.’. The strain was found to be an antibiotic producer as strain TÜ4103T showed bioactivity against Gram-positive bacteria, such as

Bacillus subtilis

and

Kocuria rhizophila

in bioassays. Strain TÜ4103T showed 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity of 99.65 % to

Kitasatospora cheerisanensis

DSM 101999T and 98.82 % to

Kitasatospora niigatensis

DSM 44781T and

Kitasatospora cineracea

DSM 44780T. Genome-based phylogenetic analysis revealed that strain TÜ4103T is closely related to

K. cineracea

DSM 44780T and

K. niigatensis

DSM 44781T. The digital DNA–DNA hybridization values between the genome sequences of strain TÜ4103T and its closest phylogenomic relatives, strains DSM 44780T and DSM 44781T, were 43.0 and 42.9 %, respectively. Average nucleotide identity (ANI) values support this claim, with the highest ANI score of 91.14 % between TÜ4103T and

K. niigatensis

being closely followed by an ANI value of 91.10 % between

K. cineracea

and TÜ4103T. The genome of TÜ4103T has a size of 7.91 Mb with a G+C content of 74.05 mol%. Whole-cell hydrolysates of strain TÜ4103T are rich in meso-diaminopimelic acid, and rhamnose, galactose and mannose are characteristic as whole-cell sugars. The phospholipid profile contains phosphatidylethanolamine, diphosphatidylglycerol and glycophospholipid. The predominant menaquinones (>93.5 %) are MK-9(H8) and MK-9(H6). Based on the phenotypic, genotypic and genomic characteristics, strain TÜ4103T (=DSM 114396T=CECT 30712T) merits recognition as the type strain of a novel species of the genus

Kitasatospora

, for which the name Kitasatospora fiedleri sp. nov. is proposed.
TMS-EEG shows mindfulness meditation is associated with an altered excitation/inhibition balance in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex
Authors: Humble Gregory , Geddes Harry , Baell Oliver , Payne Jake Elijah , Hill Aron T , Chung Sung Wook , Emonson Melanie , Osborn Melissa , Caldwell Bridget , Fitzgerald Paul B , Cash Robin , Bailey Neil W
Published: November 2023

Objective

Mindfulness meditation is associated with functional brain changes in regions subserving higher order cognitive processes such as attention. However, no research to date has causally probed these areas in meditators using combined transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and electroencephalography (EEG). This study aimed to investigate whether cortical reactivity to TMS differs in a community sample of experienced mindfulness meditators when compared to matched controls

Methods

TMS was applied to the left and right dorsolateral prefrontal cortices (DLPFC) of 19 controls and 15 meditators while brain responses were measured using EEG. TMS-evoked potentials (P60 and N100) were analysed, and exploratory analyses using the whole EEG scalp field were performed to test whether TMS-evoked global neural response strength or the distribution of neural activity differed between groups.

Results

Meditators were found to have statistically larger P60/N100 ratios in response to left and right hemisphere DLPFC stimulation compared to controls (pFDR= 0.004, BF10> 39). No differences were observed in P60 or N100 amplitudes when examined in isolation. We also found preliminary evidence for differences in the distribution of neural activity 269-332ms post stimulation.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate differences in cortical reactivity to TMS in meditators. Differences in the distribution of neural activity approximately 300ms following stimulation suggest differences in cortico-subcortical reverberation in meditators that may be indicative of greater inhibitory activity in frontal regions. This research contributes to our current understanding of the neurophysiology of mindfulness and highlights opportunities for further exploration into the mechanisms underpinning the benefits of mindfulness meditation.
Abnormal behavior is reversible in a chromatin mutant
Authors: Rodriguez Juan D. , Reeves Monica N. , Wang Hsiao-Lin V. , Chavez Jaely Z. , Rastogi Rhea , Chavez Sindy R. , Preston Elicia A , Chadha Madhav S. , Sun Liyang , Hill Emily J. , Corces Victor G. , Schmeichel Karen L. , Murray John I. , Katz David J.
Published: November 2023

How mutations in histone modifying enzymes lead to neurodevelopmental disorders is unknown. We took advantage of the invariant embryonic lineage and adult nervous system inC. elegansto investigate a double mutant betweenspr-5/Lsd1/Kdm1a(H3K4me1/2 demethylase) andmet-2/Setdb1(H3K9 methyltransferase). We demonstrate thatspr-5; met-2double mutant worms have a severe chemotaxis defect caused by the ectopic expression of germline genes in somatic tissues. Despite this behavioral defect, we observe few embryonic lineage alterations and an intact adult nervous system. This raises the possibility that the abnormal chemotaxis behavior may be due to ongoing defects in terminally differentiated cells rather than alterations in development. Remarkably, we found that shutting off the ectopic germline expression rescues normal chemotaxis in the samespr-5; met-2adult worms that had a chemotaxis defect earlier. This suggests that ongoing inappropriate transcription can block normal behavior in an intact nervous system. Based on these data, it is possible that the intellectual disability and altered behavior observed in human neurodevelopmental syndromes caused by mutations in histone modifying enzymes could be due to ongoing ectopic transcription and may be reversible.
Impact of acute chlorpyrifos toxicity on the histology and biochemistry of the stomach, intestine, and muscle of theAnabas testudineus
Authors: Sudhakaran Bindu Vijayakumari , Sreeja S
Published: November 2023

Chlorpyrifos is classified as an organophosphorus pesticide that exhibits properties of being a broad-spectrum insecticide, acaricide, and nematicide. It is characterized by its ability to degrade quickly and its non-persistent nature. The current investigation involved the determination of the LC50value of chlorpyrifos onA. testudineus. The computed LC50values were found to be 11.59, 8.82, 6.30, and 3.82 ppm for exposure durations of 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours, respectively. The levels of protein and glycogen in the stomach, gut, and muscle of A. testudineus, which were subjected to a concentration of 3.82 ppm (LC5096 hours) chlorpyrifos for a duration of 96 hours, exhibited a notable reduction when compared to the control group. The stomach sections of A. testudineus, when subjected to a concentration of 3.82 ppm chlorpyrifos for a duration of 96 hours, exhibited degeneration of the mucosa layer and necrosis of the mucosa epithelium. The histopathological examination of the intestine revealed several notable findings, including the presence of a disintegrating serosa, a significantly enlarged muscularis layer, and observable damage to both the circular muscle layer and submucosa. Additionally, evidence of necrosis was observed within the mucosa layer. The muscle tissue exhibited degeneration inside the muscle bundles, characterized by the presence of discrete regions of necrosis and the development of vacuoles within the muscle bundles. The results of this study demonstrate that chlorpyrifos exhibits a significant level of toxicity towards A. testudineus, and it is important to note that the absence of mortality does not guarantee the maintenance of physiological well-being in this particular fish species.
Human CD127 negative ILC2s show immunological memory
Authors: Mathä Laura , Krabbendam Lisette , Martinez-Høyer Sergio , Heesters Balthasar , Golebski Kornel , Kradolfer Chantal M.A , Ghaedi Maryam , Ma Junjie , Stadhouders Ralph , Bachert Claus , Cardell Lars O. , Nan Zhang , Holtappels Gabriele , Helgers Leanne C. , Geijtenbeek Theo B.H , Coquet Jonathan M. , Takei Fumio , Spits Hergen , Martinez-Gonzalez Itziar
Published: November 2023

Group 2 Innate Lymphoid Cells (ILC2s) serve as key players in type 2 immunity and contribute significantly to maintaining homeostasis and responding to inflammation. Notably, ILC2s are closely implicated in the development of allergic disorders like asthma. While previous research has demonstrated immunological memory in mouse ILC2s, it has remained unclear whether human ILC2s can acquire this form of memory. In this study, we demonstrate the persistence of CD45RO, a marker previously linked to inflammatory ILC2s, in resting ILC2s that have undergone prior activation. These cells concurrently reduce the expression of the canonical ILC marker CD127. Through in vitro experiments involving the isolation and stimulation of CD127-CD45RO+ ILC2s, we observed an augmented ability to produce cytokines and undergo proliferation. CD127-CD45RO+ ILC2s are found in both healthy and inflamed tissues and display a gene signature of cell activation. Memory ILC2s may play a significant role in chronic type 2 diseases, such as allergic asthma and atopic dermatitis.

HIGHLIGHTS

– Inflamed and healthy tissues contain CD127-ILC2s with a gene signature of cell activation

– CD127-CD45RO+ ILC2s from healthy tissues show immunological memory features

– Mouse memory ILC2s downregulate CD127

– In vitro stimulation of naïve ILC2s generates memory CD127-CD45RO+ ILC2s
Role of finger movement kinematics in friction perception at initial contact with smooth surfaces
Authors: Afzal Naqash , Dunilac Sophie du Bois de , Loutit Alastair J. , Shea Helen O , Martinez Ulloa Pablo , Khamis Heba , Vickery Richard M. , Wiertlewski Michaël , Redmond Stephen J. , Birznieks Ingvars
Published: November 2023

When manipulating objects, humans adjust grip force to friction remarkably quickly: it may take just 100 ms to see adjustment to friction at the skin-object interface. While the motor commands adapt, subjects become aware of slipperiness of touched surfaces. In this study, we explore the sensory processes underlying such friction perception when no intentional exploratory sliding movements are present. Previously, we have demonstrated that humans cannot perceive frictional differences when surfaces are brought in contact with an immobilized finger (Khamis et al., 2021b) unless there is a submillimeter lateral displacement (Afzal et al., 2022), or subjects made the movement themselves (Willemet et al., 2021). In the current study, subjects actively interacted with a device that can modulate friction using ultrasound, without an exploratory sliding movement, as they would when gripping an object to lift it. Using a two-alternative forced-choice paradigm, subjects had to indicate which of two surfaces felt more slippery. Subjects could correctly identify the more slippery surface in 87 ± 8% of cases (mean±SD; n=12). Biomechanical analysis of finger pad skin contacting a flat smooth surface indicated that natural movement kinematics (e.g., tangential movement jitter and physiological tremor) may enhance perception of frictional effects. To test whether this is the case, in a second experiment a hand support was introduced to limit fingertip movement deviation from a straight path. Subject performance significantly decreased (66 ± 12% correct, mean±SD; n=12), indicating that friction perception at the initial contact is enhanced or enabled by natural movement kinematics.

Significance statement

Sensing surface friction is crucial for automatic grip force control to avoid dropping objects. A slipping handhold can lead to loss of balance and falling. In many instances, the required grip force may exceed hand’s physical ability or an object’s breakage point, therefore cognitive selection of a safe and achievable action plan based on friction perception is critical. Little is known about how our awareness of surface slipperiness is obtained under such circumstances without exploratory movement. The current study demonstrates that natural movement kinematics inducing submillimeter lateral movements play a central enabling role, demonstrating interdependence between the motor system and sensory mechanisms. These findings broaden our fundamental understanding of sensorimotor control and could inform the development of advanced sensor technologies.
Using a hybrid methodology for literature review: a case study in depression research
Authors: Abdallah Salam , Khalil Ashraf
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to understand and a lay a foundation of how analytics has been used in depression management, this study conducts a systematic literature review using two techniques – text mining and manual review. The proposed methodology would aid researchers in identifying key concepts and research gaps, which in turn, will help them to establish the theoretical background supporting their empirical research objective.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper explores a hybrid methodology for literature review (HMLR), using text mining prior to systematic manual review.

Findings

The proposed rapid methodology is an effective tool to automate and speed up the process required to identify key and emerging concepts and research gaps in any specific research domain while conducting a systematic literature review. It assists in populating a research knowledge graph that does not reach all semantic depths of the examined domain yet provides some science-specific structure.

Originality/value

This study presents a new methodology for conducting a literature review for empirical research articles. This study has explored an “HMLR” that combines text mining and manual systematic literature review. Depending on the purpose of the research, these two techniques can be used in tandem to undertake a comprehensive literature review, by combining pieces of complex textual data together and revealing areas where research might be lacking.
Forecasting turnover intention: an analysis of psychological factors and perceived organizational support among healthcare professionals
Authors: Abdelwahed Nadia A. Abdelmegeed , Al Doghan Mohammed A. , Saraih Ummi Naiemah , Soomro Bahadur Ali
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Turnover intention (TOI) has become a severe issue in Saudi Arabia’s health-care system as health professionals leave their organizations. Saudi Arabia’s health-care professionals’ TOI affects the organizations and the patients’ human rights. Therefore, this study aims to assess the factors that affected Saudi Arabia’s health-care professionals’ TOI.

Design/methodology/approach

This study based its findings on quantitative cross-sectional data. This study’s respondents were health-care professionals working in Saudi Arabia’s public and private health-care institutions.

Findings

By using path analysis, this study’s findings reveal that, on the one hand, job stress (JS), psychological distress (PD) and perceived work exhaustion (PWE) have positive and significant effects on TOI. On the other hand, perceived organizational support (POS) is a positive and significant predictor of TOI.

Practical implications

This study’s findings will help the Saudi Arabian Ministry and policymakers develop policies to encourage health professionals’ perseverance through reducing their JS, PD and PWE and by enhancing POS for health-care staff. Moreover, by controlling the increasing turnover ratio among Saudi Arabia’s health-care professionals, this study’s findings assist in overcoming the violations of human rights.

Originality/value

This study’s findings empirically confirm the development of TOI through JS, PD and PWE among Saudi Arabia’s health-care professionals.
Fatal structure fire classification from building fire data using machine learning
Authors: Balakrishnan Vimala , Mohammed Hashim Aainaa Nadia , Lee Voon Chung , Lee Voon Hee , Lee Ying Qiu
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to develop a machine learning model to detect structure fire fatalities using a dataset comprising 11,341 cases from 2011 to 2019.

Design/methodology/approach

Exploratory data analysis (EDA) was conducted prior to modelling, in which ten machine learning models were experimented with.

Findings

The main fatal structure fire risk factors were fires originating from bedrooms, living areas and the cooking/dining areas. The highest fatality rate (20.69%) was reported for fires ignited due to bedding (23.43%), despite a low fire incident rate (3.50%). Using 21 structure fire features, Random Forest (RF) yielded the best detection performance with 86% accuracy, followed by Decision Tree (DT) with bagging (accuracy = 84.7%).

Research limitations/practical implications

Limitations of the study are pertaining to data quality and grouping of categories in the data pre-processing stage, which could affect the performance of the models.

Originality/value

The study is the first of its kind to manipulate risk factors to detect fatal structure classification, particularly focussing on structure fire fatalities. Most of the previous studies examined the importance of fire risk factors and their relationship to the fire risk level.
Understanding interdependency of sustainability dimensions from the lens of collaborative relationship conditions: findings from an emerging economy
Authors: Kumar Gopal , Zacharia Zach G. , Goswami Mohit
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Drawing on the relational view and contingency theories, this study explores supply chain relationship conditions' roles in interrelationships between environmental, social and supply chain performance (SCP), i.e. triple bottom line (TBL).

Design/methodology/approach

The data from industries and structural equation modeling (SEM) were used to validate the proposed model. Interviews with industry experts were conducted to further understand the findings.

Findings

The authors find that relationship conditions, such as inventory information sharing, dependency, opportunistic behavior and conflicts, moderate TBL linkages. Interestingly, power asymmetry does not moderate the linkages. Social performance mediates between environmental and SCP. This indirect effect is stronger than the effect of environmental performance on SCP.

Originality/value

This research is perhaps the first to bring a much-needed nuanced view on the importance of relationship conditions for TBL performance linkages. The research further underlines the importance of social performance in an emerging economy.
Tourism recovery: exploring the impact of residents' animosity on attitudes, intentions and behaviours to support tourism development
Authors: Moghavvemi Sedigheh , Hassani Ali , Woosnam Kyle M. , Abdrakhmanova Saniya , Jiang Chunyu
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to explore the most salient contributors to residents' support for tourism. As such, the authors measure residents' fear and risk of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and residents' animosity towards tourists as predictors of attitudinal, intentional and behavioural support for tourism in China, Malaysia, Kazakhstan and Iran.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey of 1,318 respondents across four countries was conducted, with data analysed using structural equation modelling.

Findings

This study shows that residents' perceptions about tourism development vary in different countries based on the impact of COVID-19, even though some factors, such as perceived risk and fear of COVID-19, have a similar effect on residents' attitudes and intentions to support tourism.

Research limitations/implications

Only residents from four countries participated due to the collaborative effort of researchers from these specific countries.

Practical implications

Insight into residents' perceptions and responses to COVID-19 can aid policymakers and managers in developing effective crisis recovery strategies.

Social implications

The data from this study can serve as a foundation for future research to examine residents' attitudes and support towards tourism during the post-COVID-19 period.

Originality/value

Unlocking the unrevealing of residents' perceptions and coping mechanisms towards tourists during the pandemic, this research shines a light on their crucial role in the revival of the tourism industry. With an exclusive focus on residents' attitudes and behaviours, this study stands out amongst the few that delve into this crucial aspect of post-pandemic recovery.
An artificial bee colony algorithm for medical goods distribution and pharmacological waste collection by hybrid vehicles considering environmental criteria
Authors: Behnamian Javad , Kiani Z.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to focus on a medical goods distribution problem and pharmacological waste collection by plug-in hybrid vehicles with some real-world restrictions. In this research, considering alternative energy sources and simultaneous pickup and delivery led to a decrease in greenhouse gas emissions and distribution costs, respectively.

Design/methodology/approach

Here, this problem has been modeled as mixed-integer linear programming with the traveling and energy consumption costs objective function. The GAMS was used for model-solving in small-size instances. Because the problem in this research is an NP-hard problem and solving real-size problems in a reasonable time is impossible, in this study, the artificial bee colony algorithm is used.

Findings

Then, the algorithm results are compared with a simulated annealing algorithm that recently was proposed in the literature. Finally, the results obtained from the exact solution and metaheuristic algorithms are compared, analyzed and reported. The results showed that the artificial bee colony algorithm has a good performance.

Originality/value

In this paper, medical goods distribution with pharmacological waste collection is studied. The paper was focused on plug-in hybrid vehicles with simultaneous pickup and delivery. The problem was modeled with environmental criteria. The traveling and energy consumption costs are considered as an objective function.
Training orientation, organizational support and training satisfaction – the mediating role of perceived value of training
Authors: To Wai Ming , Leung Vincent W.S.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to explore the relationships between employees’ training orientation, organizational support for training and employees’ training satisfaction. It also investigates the mediating role of perceived value of training in the relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a literature review on training, the study proposes a theoretical model that links employees’ training orientation and organizational support for training to training satisfaction directly and indirectly via perceived value of training, while employees’ training satisfaction may influence affective commitment. The model was tested using responses from 364 Chinese employees in Macao.

Findings

Results of partial least square-structural equation modeling showed that employees’ training orientation influenced training satisfaction directly and indirectly through perceived value of training, while organizational support for training also influenced employees’ training satisfaction indirectly through perceived value of training. Training satisfaction had a positive effect on affective commitment.

Research limitations/implications

The study’s limitations include a cross-sectional design and the characteristics of Macao’s economic structure. Although the causality of relationships was grounded in prior studies, reverse relationships might exist between some selected variables. It is suggested that a longitudinal study shall be carried out to confirm the causality of relationships. Additionally, Macao’s economy is dominated by its service sector. Future research can be carried out in other cities that have the manufacturing and high-technology sectors.

Originality/value

The study unveiled that employees’ training orientation including their general attitude towards training and training goal orientation and organizational support for training are key antecedents of training satisfaction. Human resources professionals in organizations must develop innovative ways, such as simulation games and competitions, to enhance the awareness of the importance of training to their employees. Additionally, they must advocate and demonstrate organizations providing supportive environments for training.
External audit quality, auditor selection and hostile takeovers: evidence from half a century
Authors: Boonlert-u-thai Kriengkrai , Chatjuthamard Pattanaporn , Papangkorn Suwongrat , Jiraporn Pornsit
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Exploiting a unique measure of hostile takeover exposure principally based on the staggered adoption of state legislations, the authors investigate how external audit quality is influenced by the discipline of the takeover market. External auditors and the takeover market both function as important instruments of external corporate governance.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors execute a standard regression analysis and run a variety of robustness checks to minimize endogeneity, namely, propensity score matching (PSM), entropy balancing, an instrumental-variable analysis, Generalized method of moment (GMM) dynamic panel data analysis and Lewbel's (2012) heteroscedastic identification.

Findings

The authors’ immense sample spans half a century, encompassing nearly 180,000 observations and 17 takeover-related state legislations, one of the largest samples in the literature in this area. The authors’ results suggest that firms with more takeover exposure are significantly less likely to use Big N auditors. Therefore, a more active takeover market results in poorer external audit quality, corroborating the substitution hypothesis. The discipline of the takeover market substitutes for the necessity for a high-quality external auditor. Specifically, a rise in takeover susceptibility by one standard deviation lowers the probability of using a Big N auditor by 4.29%.

Originality/value

The authors’ study is the first to examine the effect of the takeover over market on audit quality using a novel measure of hostile takeover susceptibility mainly based on the staggered implementation of state legislation. Because the enactment of state legislation is beyond the control of any firm individually, it is plausibly exogenous. The authors’ results therefore probably reflect a causal influence rather than merely a correlation.
Developing new understanding of how global talent flow impact individual and firm performance by using big data
Authors: Baruch Yehuda , Guttormsen David S. A. , Gyoshev Stanley B. , Pavkov Trifon , Plesca Miana
Published: November 2023

Drawing on human capital theory, we explore the impact of global mobility on individuals and their employing firms. We also investigate the role of cultural distance between workers who move across country borders and the local culture, and the role that HRM may play to improve capitalizing on global talent mobility. We use a big data set comprising the entire population in one country, including about 30,000 expatriates from 143 countries employed by 15,000 firms, over 11 years of data covering about 100,000 observations on expatriates and 80,000 on their firms. Our findings support the existence of positive impact of global firms on performance (6.7% higher revenues after labor costs) and individuals' wages (10%–20% higher salaries). Both relationships are statistically and economically significantly influenced by cultural distance for the performance of global firms, leading to HRM implications.
The efficiency, timeliness, health outcomes and cost‐effectiveness of a new aeromedical retrieval model in Central Australia: A pre‐ and post‐implementation observational study
Authors: Russell Deborah Jane , Zhao Yuejen , Mathew Supriya , Fitts Michelle Susannah , Johnson Richard , Reeve David Mark , Honan Bridget , Niclasen Petra , Liddle Zania , Green Danielle , Wakerman John
Published: November 2023

Objective

To assess timeliness, efficiency, health outcomes and cost‐effectiveness of the 2018 redesigned Central Australian aeromedical retrieval model.

Design

Pre‐ and postimplementation observational study of all patients receiving telehealth consultations from remote medical practitioners (RMPs) or Medical Retrieval and Consultation Centre (MRaCC) physicians between 1/1/2015 and 29/2/2020. Descriptive and inferential statistics measuring system efficiency, timeliness, health outcomes and incremental cost‐effectiveness.

Findings

There were 9%–10% reductions in rates of total aeromedical retrievals, emergency department admissions and hospitalisations postimplementation, all p‐values < 0.001. Usage rates for total hospital bed days and ICU hours were 17% lower (both p < 0.001). After adjusting for periodicity (12% fewer retrievals on weekends), each postimplementation year, there were 0.7 fewer retrievals/day (p = 0.002). The mean time from initial consultation to aeromedical departure declined by 18 minutes post‐implementation (115 vs. 97 min, p = 0.007). The hazard of death within 365 days was nonsignificant (0.912, 95% CI 0.743–1.120). Postimplementation, it cost $302 more per hospital admission and $3051 more per year of life saved, with a 75% probability of cost‐effectiveness. These costs excluded estimated savings of $744,528/year in reduced hospitalisations and the substantial social and out‐of‐pocket costs to patients and their families associated with temporary relocation to Alice Springs.

Conclusion

Central Australia's new critical care consultant‐led aeromedical retrieval model is more efficient, is dispatched faster and is more cost‐effective. These findings are highly relevant to other remote regions in Australia and internationally that have comparable GP‐led retrieval services.