bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A bibliometric analysis and text mining of the entrepreneurial marketing domain: emerging trends and future research directions
Authors: Amjad Tayyab , Dent Michael M. , Abu Mansor Nur Naha
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The entrepreneurial marketing (EM) literature has grown rapidly during the last decade, yet much is left undiscovered. This paper aims to conduct a bibliometric analysis and text mining of the EM domain to provide trends in previous EM research to address this issue. Future avenues for EM research are provided.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the Scopus database, a bibliometric analysis and text mining are conducted with EM articles published between 1976 and 2020.

Findings

The paper reports the most frequently published and cited authors and their co-author networks. Journals which contain these articles are included with country data, subject areas and use of author keywords related to the EM topic. Frequencies of keywords and newly-emerging keywords in every three-year period during the past 12 years are also examined. The findings suggest that future researchers should explore the subtopics of EM education, legitimation, entrepreneurial networking and social media/digital marketing within the EM domain.

Originality/value

Bibliometric analysis and text mining are relatively new methods with which to study the EM research domain, allowing for analysis of emerging trends over the past 12 years.
Mass tourism, biosecurity and sustainability challenges: prospects illustrated by the current COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Sacramento Octávio
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Using COVID-19 pandemic as a more immediate empirical reference, this paper aims to understand the biosecurity risks arising from tourist activities and, through a more prospective analysis, to consider the relevance of public health issues in the context of tourism-sustainability nexuses.

Design/methodology/approach

The text assumes a hybrid format, incorporating elements resulting from empirical research and essayistic viewpoints. The collection of empirical elements was based on documental research in several sources, such as newspapers, international institutions of an intergovernmental nature and the discussion forum of the travel platform TripAdvisor.

Findings

By assuming mobility and large agglomerations of people from different origins, mass tourism has fostered multiple outbreaks of COVID-19 and the rapid global spread of contagion chains. The pandemic clearly exemplified the responsibility of tourism in the dispersion of biotic agents with severe ecological, economic, social and public health repercussions. It is, therefore, urgent to rethink the tourism growth trajectory and more effectively consider the biosecurity risks associated with mobility in discussions on tourism and sustainability. At the same time, tourism must be delineated in terms of the great aims of sustainability, and this transversal purpose to which it contributes should be considered an intrinsic condition of its own sectorial sustainability as an economic activity.

Originality/value

The biosecurity challenges posed by mass tourism are a very topical issue, still little considered in sustainability policies and on which there is a marked deficit in scientific research.
Success factors of organizational resilience: a qualitative investigation of four types of sustainable digital entrepreneurs
Authors: Isensee Carmen , Teuteberg Frank , Griese Kai Michael
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to distinguish different types of sustainable digital entrepreneurs (SDEs) and explore their approaches toward enhancing organizational resilience.

Design/methodology/approach

Investigation of entrepreneur characteristics using Grounded Theory methodology; 12 semi-structured telephone interviews with (owner-)managers of digital-resilient small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups in Germany; adaptation of a sustainability-digitalization-matrix for initial clustering; investigation of reoccurring patterns (within and between clusters) through variable-oriented content analysis; application of the capability-based conceptualization of organizational resilience for synthesis and extension.

Findings

First, the authors present a new typology of SDEs, including descriptions of the four main types (Process-Oriented System Thinker, Unconventional Strategist, Dynamic Visionary and Success-Oriented Opportunist). Second, the authors propose a conceptual framework with six success factors of organizational resilience. The framework accentuates the influence of SDEs on organizational culture and the macro-environment.

Practical implications

Digital sustainability and resilience are emerging management principles. The insights gained will allow (future) entrepreneurs to perform a self-assessment and replicate approaches toward enhancing SME resilience; for example, governing the co-creation of an organizational culture with a strong integrative view on sustainability and digitalization.

Originality/value

SMEs are characterized by high vulnerability and a reactive response to the disruptions caused by sustainability crises and digitalization. Blending sustainable and digital entrepreneurship at a micro-level, the authors identified the success factors underpinning organizational resilience that are associated with the characteristics of four types of SDEs.
Japanese business communication practices in Thailand: tales from an electronic components manufacturer
Authors: Chau Vinh Sum , Nacharoenkul Thunjira
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This article reviews the practice of horenso (a mnemonic for hokoku/reporting, renraku/informing and sodan/consulting) – an under-documented Japanese communication methodology – at a Japanese-owned subsidiary in Thailand. It draws on a number of cultural theories to explore how horenso was influenced by the non-biculturality of individuals at a multinational corporation.

Design/methodology/approach

This article draws on first-hand interviews with staff of varying responsibilities at a multinational electronic components manufacturer, Spin-eTech (a pseudonym) to understand how horenso has been utilized and perceived at this Japanese-owned subsidiary in Thailand differently from its original form and traditional use at its headquarters in Japan. This was a targeted case that captured the real time communication difficulties at the workplace.

Findings

The themes of horenso's rationale, motivation, style of communication, use for problem solving, information reporting, relation to superiority and culture of communication emerged as prominent differences for how horenso was practiced at the Thai subsidiary.

Originality/value

Using the emic perspective of cultural understanding, insights are offered into the impact of non-biculturality within the Asia Pacific region on the practice of horenso to extant knowledge on the under-explored “eastern vs eastern” cultural differences.
An agile new product development-based sustainable supply chain framework to improve environmental quality performance: emerging economies perspective
Authors: Palsodkar Manoj , Yadav Gunjan , Nagare Madhukar
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) is a new subfield of supply chain management. The purpose of this research is to develop a framework for assessing the impact of agile new product development (ANPD) practices on the environmental SSCM performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The ANPD practices and SSCM environmental performance metrics (SEPMs) are identified through the literature review. The shortlisted ANPD practices are categorized into five major criteria each with an own set of sub-criteria. A four-level conceptual framework is developed. The weights of these ANPD practices are computed using the Pythagorean fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (PFAHP), and the SEPMs are ranked using the Pythagorean fuzzy Combined Compromise Solution (PFCoCoSo).

Findings

The results show that the major criterion “Innovation Aspects” is the most important with a weightage of 0.2368, followed by “Policy Aspects” having 0.2228, “Technology Aspects” with 0.1959, “Organisation Aspects” having 0.1786 and “Executive Aspects” with 0.1658 weightage. The SEPMs “Frequency of NPD” is ranked first with an assessment value (Ki) of 2.5569, followed by “Lead time reduction” and “Number of design iterations” with Ki of 2.4482 and 2.3897, respectively. The research findings show that the ANPD practices like customer need assessment, availability of multidisciplinary team and Industry 4.0 technology usage contribute more to achieving environmental SSCM.

Practical implications

Managers can enhance environmental SSCM performance by adopting the ANPD practices and prioritizing SEPMs. Corporate effectiveness will be increased by the practices that promote SSCM and the use of technological innovations.

Originality/value

This study identified a unique set of 22 performance metrics that quantitatively measure NPD performance as well as environmental SSCM performance by adopting the 31 ANPD practices that were shortlisted. The proposed framework is a novel synthesis of literature from various disciplines such as new product development (NPD), environmental management, SSCM and performance evaluation.
A quality learning environment: an assessment of spaciousness of architectural design studios of Iraqi Kurdistan region universities using fuzzy logic
Authors: Hussein Ashti Yaseen , Mustafa Faris Ali
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Spaciousness is defined as “the feeling of openness or room to wander” that has been affected by various physical factors. The purpose of this paper is to assess the spaciousness of space to determine how spacious the space is. Furthermore, the study intends to propose a fuzzy-based model to assess the degree of spaciousness in terms of physical parameters such as area, proportion, the ratio of window area to floor area and color value.

Design/methodology/approach

Fuzzy logic is the most appropriate mathematical model to assess uncertainty using nonhomogeneous variables. In contrast to conventional methods, fuzzy logic depends on partial truth theory. MATLAB Fuzzy Logic Toolbox was used as a computational model including a fuzzy inference system (FIS) using linguistic variables called membership functions to define parameters. As a result, fuzzy logic was used in this study to assess the spaciousness degree of design studios in universities in the Iraqi Kurdistan region.

Findings

The findings of the presented fuzzy model show the degree to which the input variables affect a space perceived as larger and more spacious. The relationship between parameters has been represented in three-dimensional surface diagrams. The positive relationship of spaciousness with the area, window-to-floor area ratio and color value has been determined. In contrast, the negative relationship between spaciousness and space proportion is described. Moreover, the three-dimensional surface diagram illustrates how the changes in the input values affect the spaciousness degree. Besides, the improvement in the spaciousness degree of the design studio increases the quality learning environment.

Originality/value

This study attempted to assess the degree of spaciousness in design studios. There has been no attempt carried out to combine educational space learning environments and computational methods. This study focused on the assessment of spaciousness using the MATLAB Fuzzy Logic toolbox that has not been integrated so far.
What were we thinking? A scoping review of crisis management pandemic literature (1984–2019)
Authors: Karlsen André R. , Antonsen Stian
Published: March 2023

Pandemics are now the focus of research attention in the fields of preparedness and crisis management. As pandemics are some of the largest crises to occur, an important question becomes ‘what were the field of crisis management thinking about pandemic management’. This paper investigates how the field of crisis management have incorporated the body of knowledge arising from pandemics into its science (from 1984 to 2019). We performed a scoping review of 4 journals on crisis management and what they have written about pandemics (230 papers). The findings are summarized in eight different categories. The main result is that the field of crisis management have shown sparse interest in pandemics. We attribute this to factors such as fragmentation of academic sciences when the problem‐solving needs integration, perceived incommensurability and the organization of attention. We argue that the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic can provide a basis for posing new questions in research on, and the political debate around, societal vulnerability at large and not only restricted to recent experiences of particular crises. Finally, we argue that this will need a stronger integration of research strands and communities, which in turn require the ability to ‘connect the dots’ between different sources of knowledge.
Fatal exsanguination following complete transection of femoral vessels due to angle grinder injury in an industrial accident
Authors: P Siva Sai Kumar , Jadav Devendra , Vempalli Seshagiri Raju , Meshram Vikas P. , Kanchan Tanuj
Published: March 2023

Angle grinders are one of the most dangerous and frequently used tools in industrial settings. Angle grinder injuries range from superficial cuts to deep penetrating injuries with underlying fracture‐dislocation and vascular trauma. The injuries caused by angle grinders mostly involve the head, face, or upper limbs, while the lower limb is an unusual site. The high‐speed rotating disc of the angle grinders does not respect anatomical boundaries or structures; therefore, the injuries caused may be disfiguring, permanently incapacitating, or even fatal. We report a fatal case of an angle grinder injury to the lower limb. The victim sustained a sharp cut over the left thigh while woodworking in an industrial setup. The rotating disc of an angle grinder had transected the skin, subcutaneous fat and muscles, and both the femoral vessels of the left side, which led to fatal exsanguination within 10 min of the incident.
Effect of racial misclassification in police data on estimates of racial disparities
Authors: Laniyonu Ayobami , Donahue Samuel T.
Published: March 2023

Research on race and policing increasingly draws upon data collected by police officers to estimate racial disparities in police contact. Many of these data sets, however, rely on officer perception of a stopped person's race, which may be inconsistent with how those individuals self‐identify. Furthermore, researchers frequently benchmark contact data where race is perceived by police officers against census and survey data where race is self‐identified. We argue that discordance between how individuals self‐identify and how they are classified by officers can bias estimates of racial disparities. Using a unique data set, which allows us to compare officers’ racial classification of stopped persons with those same persons’ racial self‐identification, we characterize rates of racial misclassification in administrative police records. We find evidence of racial misclassification in police records, especially among Hispanic and Asians/Pacific Islanders. We find that officer classification of Hispanics as (non‐Hispanic) White is the most common form of racial misclassification in our sample and that its substantive consequences are significant. Specifically, we find that officer classification of Hispanics as White may lead analysts to incorrectly conclude that Hispanics are no more likely than Whites to be cited by police.
Semiempirical modeling of a traditional wood‐fired pizza oven in quasi‐steady‐state operating conditions
Authors: Falciano Aniello , Masi Paolo , Moresi Mauro
Published: March 2023

Wood‐fired ovens are mandatorily used to bake the Neapolitan pizza. Unfortunately, they are still empirically operated. In this work, a pilot‐scale wood‐fired oven was kept operating in quasi‐steady‐state conditions. Once the combustion reaction of oak logs had been modeled, the composition of flue gas measured, and the external oven wall and floor temperatures thermographically scanned, it was possible to check for the material and energy balances and, thus, assess that the heat loss rates through flue gas and insulated oven chamber were, respectively, equal to 46% and 26% of the energy supplied by burning firewood. The enthalpy accumulation rate in the internal fire brick oven chamber amounted to about 3.4 kW, this being adequate to keep not only the temperatures of the oven vault and floor practically constant but also to bake one or two pizzas at the same time. Such a rate was predicted by contemplating the simultaneous heat transfer mechanisms of radiation and convection between the oven vault and floor surface areas. The efficacy of the semiempirical modeling developed here was further tested by reconstructing quite accurately the time course of water heating in aluminum trays with a diameter near to that of a typical Neapolitan pizza. The heat flow from the oven vault to the water‐containing tray was of the radiative and convective types for about 73% and 15%, whereas the residual 12% was of the conductive type from the oven floor.

Practical Application

Despite wood‐fired ovens are largely used in the restaurant and food service industry, their operation is highly dependent on the operator's ability. This study shows how the heat loss rates through flue gas and insulated oven chamber can be assessed, and how the enthalpy accumulation rate in the internal fire brick oven chamber can be predicted by accounting for the simultaneous heat transfer mechanisms of radiation and convection between the oven vault and floor surface areas. The efficacy of this semi‐empirical modelling was further checked for via some water heating tests.
Preoperative systemic immune‐inflammation index for predicting the prognosis of thymoma with radical resection
Authors: Li Qifan , Pu Yiwei , Gong Zetian , Yu Yue , Sun Wei , Cheng Zhike , Wang Wei , Zhao Jun
Published: March 2023

Background

To investigate the clinical significance of preoperative systemic immune‐inflammation index (SII) in patients with thymoma who underwent radical resection.

Methods

This retrospective study involved 425 patients with thymoma who underwent radical resection at the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University between September 1, 2008 and December 30, 2019. Data regarding routine preoperative blood tests and clinical features were collected to calculate and analyze the SII, platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR).

Results

Univariate analysis indicated that age (p = 0.021), tumor size (p = 0.003), extended resection (p < 0.001), Masaoka‐Koga stage (p < 0.001), PLR (p = 0.012), NLR (p = 0.041), and SII (p = 0.003) were related to patient prognosis. A higher SII (>345.83) was a significant independent prognostic factor in this cohort (p = 0.001, HR = 5.756, 95% CI: 2.144–15.457). Multivariate analysis showed that a high PLR was significantly associated with overall survival (OS) (p = 0.008, HR = 3.29, 95% CI: 1.371–7.896), while a high NLR was a significant independent prognostic factor for shorter OS (p = 0.024, HR = 2.654, 95% CI: 1.138–6.19). SII had an area under the curve (AUC) of 70.6% (AUC = 0.706) exceeding the predictive value for PLR (AUC = 0.678) and NLR (AUC = 0.654).

Conclusion

Preoperative SII can predict the prognosis of thymoma patients who have undergone radical resection but further multicenter prospective studies are needed to investigate the role of SII in thymoma.
Discretising Keyfitz' entropy for studies of actuarial senescence and comparative demography
Authors: de Vries Charlotte , Bernard Connor , Salguero‐Gómez Roberto
Published: March 2023

Keyfitz' entropy is a widely used metric to quantify the shape of the survivorship curve of populations, from plants to animals and microbes. Keyfitz' entropy values <1 correspond to life histories with an increasing mortality rate with age (i.e. actuarial senescence), whereas values >1 correspond to species with a decreasing mortality rate with age (negative senescence), and a Keyfitz entropy of exactly 1 corresponds to a constant mortality rate with age. Keyfitz' entropy was originally defined using a continuous‐time model, and has since been discretised to facilitate its calculation from discrete‐time demographic data.

Here, we show that the previously used discretisation of the continuous‐time metric does not preserve the relationship with increasing, decreasing or constant mortality rates. To resolve this discrepancy, we propose a new discrete‐time formula for Keyfitz' entropy for age‐classified life histories.

We show that this new method of discretisation preserves the relationship with increasing, decreasing, or constant mortality rates. We analyse the relationship between the original and the new discretisation, and we find that the existing metric tends to underestimate Keyfitz' entropy for both short‐lived species and long‐lived species, thereby introducing a consistent bias.

To conclude, to avoid biases when classifying life histories as (non‐)senescent, we suggest researchers use either the new metric proposed here, or one of the many previously suggested survivorship shape metrics applicable to discrete‐time demographic data such as Gini coefficient or Hayley's median.
Bronchopulmonary dysplasia and carbon dioxide retention
Authors: O'Connor Kristin , Davies Mark William
Published: March 2023

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine the pre‐discharge carbon dioxide (CO2) levels of preterm neonates with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) requiring ongoing nasal cannulae oxygen therapy and who were ready for discharge home.

Methods

We studied a retrospective cohort of infants born <30 weeks gestational age (GA) at ≥36 weeks corrected GA who had established BPD requiring ongoing nasal cannulae oxygen therapy and were ready for discharge home. Neonates were born and admitted between May 2014 and December 2018. Demographic data at the time of birth and at the time of the last blood gas sampled were collected.

Results

One hundred five neonates had median GA of 26.1 weeks and birth weight of 775 g. Median (IQR) CO2 level was 54 (49–58) mmHg. Ninety‐nine (94%) neonates had CO2 levels exceeding the normal range and 91 (87%) neonates had a CO2 between 45 and 65 mmHg.

Conclusion

Ninety‐four per cent of neonates <30 weeks GA at ≥36 weeks corrected GA requiring ongoing nasal cannulae oxygen therapy for established BPD, who were ready for discharge home, have CO2 levels outside of normocapnia (35–45 mmHg), with 87% having CO2 levels between 45 and 65 mmHg.
Promoting influenza prevention for older adults using the Health Action Process Approach: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zhang Chun‐Qing , Zhang Ru , Chung Pak‐Kwong , Duan Yanping , Lau Joseph Tak Fai , Chan Derwin King Chung , Hagger Martin S.
Published: March 2023

Older adults are at greater risk of complications from seasonal influenza, and promoting uptake and adherence to preventive behaviors is key to attenuating this risk. The current study examined the efficacy of a theory‐based telephone‐delivered intervention to promote uptake and maintenance of influenza preventive behaviors in a sample of Hong Kong residents 65 years and older. The intervention adopted a three‐group randomized controlled design (n = 312) with two intervention conditions, motivational and motivational + volitional, and a measurement‐only control condition. The primary outcome variable was self‐reported compliance with influenza preventive behaviors, including washing hands, avoiding touching eyes, nose, or mouth, and wearing face masks. Secondary outcomes were theory‐based psychological variables. Influenza preventive behaviors in participants in the motivational + volitional intervention group were significantly improved 3 months post‐intervention relative to those in the control condition. However, participants in the intervention group demonstrated no difference in behavior at 6 and 12 months post‐intervention relative to the participants in the control group. Intervention effects were observed on the theory‐based social support, action planning, and coping planning variables. Although short‐term benefits of the intervention were observed, effects appeared to be short‐lived and future research should investigate more intensive interventions that lead to greater behavioral maintenance.
Letter: be careful of gastrointestinal CMV infection in adverse event from ICIs therapy in solid tumours—Authors' reply
Authors: Dahl Emilie , Abed Osama , Agnholt Jørgen , Bjerrum Jacob , Dige Anders , Kjeldsen Jens , Svane Inge , Donia Marco , Seidelin Jakob
Published: March 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Dahl et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17201 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17416
Comparison of postoperative analgesic effects of thoracic epidural analgesia and rectus sheath block in laparoscopic abdominal surgery: A randomized controlled noninferiority trial
Authors: Owada Yohei , Murata Yuya , Hamaguchi Yuto , Yamada Kumiko , Inomata Shinichi , Ogawa Koichi , Ohara Yusuke , Akashi Yosihimasa , Enomoto Tsuyoshi , Maruo Kazushi , Tanaka Makoto , Oda Tatsuya
Published: March 2023

Introduction

In the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery program, abdominal wall blocks are strongly recommended as postoperative multimodal analgesia for laparoscopic abdominal surgery. The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of single‐shot rectus sheath block (RSB) with that of thoracic epidural analgesia (TEA) as a method of multimodal analgesia in patients receiving conventional laparoscopic abdominal surgery.

Methods

A noninferiority comparison was performed. Patients scheduled for laparoscopic gastric or colorectal surgery were enrolled in this study. Patients were divided randomly into two groups: TEA and RSB. The primary endpoint was the numerical rating scale (NRS) score upon coughing as of 24 hours after surgery.

Results

In total, 80 patients were randomly assigned to receive TEA (n = 42) or RSB (n = 38). Three patients were excluded from the TEA group after randomization. The NRS score on coughing as of 24 hours after surgery was significantly lower in the TEA group than in the RSB group (least square mean: 3.59 vs 6.39; 95% confidence interval for the difference: 1.87 to 3.74, P < .001). The NRS scores upon coughing and at rest were significantly lower in the TEA group than in the RSB group as of 4, 24 and 48 hours after surgery. Patient satisfaction with postoperative analgesia was significantly higher in the TEA group. Postoperative adverse events were not significantly different between groups.

Conclusion

This is the first report of comparing RSB with TEA in laparoscopic surgery. TEA may be recommended as a multimodal analgesia protocol for laparoscopic gastric and colorectal surgery.
Donor‐type red blood cell transfusion to deplete isoagglutinins prior to allogeneic stem cell transplantation from ABO major incompatible bone marrow donors
Authors: Jarisch Andrea , Salzmann‐Manrique Emilia , Soerensen Jan , Sach Gudrun , Rettinger Eva , Willasch Andre , Bakhtiar Shahrzad , Klarmann Dieter , Bräuninger Susanne , Moser Laura , Fekadu Julia , Hutter Martin , Klingebiel Thomas , Klusmann Jan‐Henning , Bader Peter , Bonig Halvard
Published: March 2023

ABO incompatibility affects approximately 40% of allogeneic stem cell transplants in Caucasian patient populations. Because bone marrow (BM), the preferred graft from paediatric sibling donors and for non‐malignant diseases, has a red blood cell (RBC) content similar to blood, anti‐donor isoagglutinins must either be depleted from the recipient or RBCs removed from the graft. To achieve tolerability of unmanipulated BM grafts, we used controlled infusions of donor ABO‐type RBC units to deplete isoagglutinins before the transplant. This retrospective study evaluates the outcomes of 52 ABO major incompatible BM transplants performed at our centre between 2007 and 2019. The use of donor‐type RBC transfusions was well tolerated. They effectively reduced isoagglutinins levels, typically achieving target titres after one (60%) or two (29%) transfusions. The approach allowed for successful and uneventful infusions of unmanipulated BM which provided timely engraftment. The transplant outcomes were not inferior to those of a matched‐pair control group of patients with ABO‐identical donors.
AKR7A3 modulates the metastasis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma through regulating PHGDH‐suppressed autophagy
Authors: Hua Lei , Song Yang , Min Jie , Wang Ronglin , Li Hong , Zhu Liaoliao , Guo Yongdong , Gan Dongxue , Li Shanshan , Ma Peixiang , Yang Cheng , Yang Jing , Shi Jingjie , Li Junqiang , Su Haichuan
Published: March 2023

AKR7A3 is a member of the aldo‐keto reductase (AKR) protein family, whose primary purpose is to reduce aldehydes and ketones to generate primary and secondary alcohols. It has been reported that AKR7A3 is downregulated in pancreatic cancer (PC). However, the mechanism underlying the effects of AKR7A3 in PC remains largely unclarified. Here, we explored the biological function, molecular mechanism and clinical relevance of AKR7A3 in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). AKR7A3 expression was downregulated in PDAC compared with adjacent normal tissues, and the lower AKR7A3 expression was related to poor prognosis. In addition, our results demonstrated that AKR7A3 could be a potential diagnostic marker for PDAC, especially in the early stages. Knockdown of AKR7A3 promoted PDAC progression and chemoresistance, while inhibiting autophagy flux. Mechanistically, AKR7A3 affected the metastasis, autophagy, and chemoresistance of PDAC by regulating PHGDH. Overall, the present study suggests that AKR7A3 inhibits PDAC progression by regulating PHGDH‐induced autophagy. In addition, AKR7A3 inhibits chemoresistance via regulating PHGDH and may serve as a new therapeutic target for PDAC.
Abnormal characteristic static and dynamic functional network connectivity in idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus
Authors: Huang Wenjun , Fang Xuhao , Li Shihong , Mao Renling , Ye Chuntao , Liu Wei , Deng Yao , Lin Guangwu
Published: March 2023

Aims

Idiopathic Normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by gait disturbance, dementia, and urinary dysfunction. The neural network mechanisms underlying this phenomenon is currently unknown.

Methods

To investigate the resting‐state functional connectivity (rs‐FC) abnormalities of iNPH‐related brain connectivity from static and dynamic perspectives and the correlation of these abnormalities with clinical symptoms before and 3‐month after shunt. We investigated both static and dynamic functional network connectivity (sFNC and dFNC, respectively) in 33 iNPH patients and 23 healthy controls (HCs).

Results

The sFNC and dFNC of networks were generally decreased in iNPH patients. The reduction in sFNC within the default mode network (DMN) and between the somatomotor network (SMN) and visual network (VN) were related to symptoms. The temporal properties of dFNC and its temporal variability in state‐4 were sensitive to the identification of iNPH and were correlated with symptoms. The temporal variability in the dorsal attention network (DAN) increased, and the average instantaneous FC was altered among networks in iNPH. These features were partially associated with clinical symptoms.

Conclusion

The dFNC may be a more sensitive biomarker for altered network function in iNPH, providing us with extra information on the mechanisms of iNPH.
Effects of the implementation of acuity circle policy on waitlist and post‐transplant outcomes of liver re‐transplantation
Authors: Shimada Shingo , Shamaa Tayseer , Ivanics Tommy , Miyake Katsunori , Kitajima Toshihiro , Rizzari Michael , Yoshida Atsushi , Abouljoud Marwan , Moonka Dilip , Nagai Shunji
Published: March 2023

Background

Acuity circle (AC) policy implementation improved the waitlist outcomes for certain liver transplant (LT)‐candidates. The impact of the policy implementation for liver retransplant (reLT) candidates is unknown.

Methods

Using Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network/United Network for Organ Sharing (OPTN/UNOS) data from January, 2018 to September, 2021, we investigated the effect of the AC policy on waitlist and post‐LT outcomes among patients who had previously received a LT. Patients were categorized by relisting date: Pre‐AC (Era 1: January 1, 2018–February 3, 2020; n = 750); and Post‐AC (Era 2: February 4, 2020–June 30, 2021; n = 556). Patient and donor characteristics, as well as on‐waitlist and post‐reLT outcomes were compared across eras.

Results

In Era 2, the probability of transplant within 90 days overall and among patients relisted > 14 days from initial transplant (late relisting) were significantly higher compared to Era 1 (subdistribution hazard ratio [sHR] 1.40, 95% CI 1.18–1.64, p < .001; sHR 1.52, 95% CI 1.23–1.88, p = .001, respectively). However, there was no difference by era among patients relisted ≤14 days from initial transplant (early relisting; sHR 1.21, 95% CI .93–1.57, p = .15). Likewise, among early relisting patients, risks for 180‐day graft loss and mortality were significantly higher in Era 2 versus Era 1 (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 5.77, 95% CI 1.71–19.51, p = .004; and aHR 8.22, 95% CI 1.85–36.59, p = .005, respectively); for late relisting patients, risks for these outcomes were similar across eras.

Conclusion

Our results show that the implementation of AC policy has improved transplant rates and reduced waiting time for reLT candidates listed > 14 days from initial transplant. However, the impact upon early relisting patients may be mixed.
Habitat–trait interactions that control response to climate change: North American ground beetles (Carabidae)
Authors: Qiu Tong , Bell Aaron J. , Swenson Jennifer J. , Clark James S.
Published: March 2023

Aim

As one of the most diverse and economically important families on Earth, ground beetles (Carabidae) are viewed as a key barometer of climate change. Recent meta‐analyses provide equivocal evidence on abundance changes of terrestrial insects. Generalizations from traits (e.g., body size, diets, flights) provide insights into understanding community responses, but syntheses for the diverse Carabidae have not yet emerged. We aim to determine how habitat and trait syndromes mediate risks from contemporary and future climate change on the Carabidae community.

Location

North America.

Time period

2012–2100.

Major taxa studied

Ground beetles (Carabidae).

Methods

We synthesized the abundance and trait data for 136 species from the National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) and additional raw data from studies across North America with remotely sensed habitat characteristics in a generalized joint attribute model. Combined Light Detection and RAnging (LiDAR) and hyperspectral imagery were used to derive habitat at a continental scale. We evaluated climate risks on the joint response of species and traits by expanding climate velocity to response velocity given habitat change.

Results

Habitat contributes more variations in species abundance and community‐weighted mean traits compared to climate. Across North America, grassland fliers benefit from open habitats in hot, dry climates. By contrast, large‐bodied, burrowing omnivores prefer warm‐wet climates beneath closed canopies. Species‐specific abundance changes predicted by the fitted model under future shared socioeconomic pathways (SSP) scenarios are controlled by climate interactions with habitat heterogeneity. For example, the mid‐size, non‐flier is projected to decline across much of the continent, but the magnitudes of declines are reduced or even reversed where canopies are open. Conversely, temperature dominates the response of the small, frequent flier Agonoleptus conjunctus, causing projected change to be more closely linked to regional temperature changes.

Main conclusions

Carabidae community reorganization under climate change is being governed by climate–habitat interactions (CHI). Species‐specific responses to CHI are explained by trait syndromes. The fact that habitat mediates warming impacts has immediate application to critical habitat designation for carabid conservation.
Assessment of the current knowledge about infective endocarditis prevention among dental hygienists in Italy: A national survey
Authors: Carbone Mario , Mandatori Federica , Macciotta Alessandra , Gambino Alessio , La Bruna Pietro , Broccoletti Roberto , Carossa Massimo , Arduino Paolo G.
Published: March 2023

Objectives

To date, there is a lack of data regarding the acceptance of the guidelines for infective endocarditis (IE) prevention among dentists in Italy, and similarly, there are no data on the understanding and compliance of those among dental hygienists (DH). Thus, we tried to assess the ability of DH to recognize and manage categories of patients at high risk of EI, to identify which dental procedures are at increased risk and to assess the level of knowledge of doses and how antibiotic prophylaxis should be administered in specific cases.

Methods

An anonymous questionnaire was prepared and made accessible online by sharing a Google Forms® link; general personal data and educational background information were collected to obtain a profile of the participants.

Results

A total of 362 DH answered to our web‐based survey, showing a prevalent female percentage (86.7%) and the most represented age group of 30–39 years old (43.1%). Regarding the gender differences, there were not overall statistically significant differences; similarly, we did not find any differences regarding the overall number of wrong questions if considering the different ages of the participant and the year of graduation. Graduates in Northern Italy have mistaken fewer questions than graduates in other geographical areas.

Conclusion

To the best of our knowledge, this is the largest survey about the knowledge of IE for DH ever performed. Because the overprescription of antibiotics contributes to the development of drug resistance, antibiotic stewardship should be at the forefront of patient care. Our data reflect the need for placing a greater emphasis on IE prophylaxis education in training and during continuing professional development events for DH.
Effect of material properties on batch‐to‐glass conversion kinetics
Authors: Ferkl Pavel , Hrma Pavel , Kloužek Jaroslav , Kruger Albert A. , Pokorný Richard
Published: March 2023

A recently developed model of the cold cap—the reacting glass batch (melter feeds) floating on molten glass in an electric glass melter—couples heat transfer with the feed‐to‐glass conversion kinetics. The model allows for determining the distributions of temperature and various properties within the cold cap. In the present study, this model is applied to four melter feeds designed for high‐level and low‐activity nuclear wastes. Profiles of temperature, conversion degree, cold cap porosity and density, condensed matter velocity, and heating rate were determined using the material properties of the cold cap. Effects of vigorous foaming at the cold cap bottom were considered. Density, thermal conductivity, and glass production rate strongly affect the cold cap thickness and the fraction of undissolved silica entering the melt under the cold cap. The heating rate profile in the cold cap is highly nonlinear, with high heating rates observed in the foam layer.
The levels and related factors of mental workload among nurses: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Yuan Zhongqing , Wang Jialin , Feng Fen , Jin Man , Xie Wanqing , He Hong , Teng Mei
Published: March 2023

Aim

The aim was to determine the overall levels and related factors of mental workload assessed using the NASA‐TLX tool among nurses.

Background

Mental workload is a key element that affects nursing performance. However, there exists no review regarding mental workload assessed using the NASA‐TLX tool, focusing on nurses.

Design

A systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Data Sources

PubMed, MEDLINE, Web of Science, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Scopus, CINAHL, CNKI, CBM, Weipu and WanFang databases were searched from 1 January 1998 to 30 February 2022.

Review Methods

Following the PRISMA statement recommendations, review methods resulted in 31 quantitative studies retained for inclusion which were evaluated with the evaluation criteria for observational studies as recommended by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. The data were pooled and a random‐effects meta‐analysis conducted.

Results

Findings showed the pooled mental workload score was 65.24, and the pooled prevalence of high mental workload was 54%. Subgroup analysis indicated nurses in developing countries and emergency departments experienced higher mental workloads, and the mental workloads of front‐line nurses increased significantly during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Conclusion

These findings highlight that nurses experience high mental workloads as assessed using the NASA‐TLX tool and there is an urgent need to explore interventions to decrease their mental workloads.
The cortisol stress response in youth with overweight and obesity: Influence of psychosocial variables
Authors: Verbiest Ine , Verbeken Sandra , Debeuf Taaike , De Henauw Stefaan , Michels Nathalie , Braet Caroline
Published: March 2023

Background

Despite previous research pointing out a bifurcation in cortisol stress reactivity, it is not yet clear if all variables explaining inter‐individual differences in stress responses are captured.

Objectives

To explore which (psychosocial and demographic) variables predict the cortisol response after a standardized stress‐and affective state (SAS)‐induction in youth with overweight and obesity.

Methods

As part of a randomized control trial (SRCTN83822934) investigating the effects of emotion regulation (ER)‐training on top of a 10‐month inpatient multidisciplinary obesity treatment, 79 children and adolescents (9–15 years) with moderate obesity (M adjusted BMI = 154.35% overweight, SD = 24.57) completed a SAS‐induction before leaving the clinic.

Results

Those whose cortisol levels decreased (N = 59.5%) from baseline to reactivity showed higher levels of alexithymia than increasers (p = 0.049). Attachment avoidance was a significant positive predictor of relative cortisol decrease after SAS‐induction (p = 0.001). Age was significantly related to less cortisol decrease (p = 0.006). No significant effect of ER‐intervention group on relative cortisol change was found.

Conclusions

The current study provides evidence for a bifurcation in cortisol stress reactivity in youth with obesity. Our data further suggested that psychosocial variables (alexithymia and attachment avoidance) influence the cortisol stress response. Future research should further explore whether the attenuators are a more vulnerable group.
Melatonin use and the risk of self‐harm and unintentional injuries in youths with and without psychiatric disorders
Authors: Leone Marica , Kuja‐Halkola Ralf , Lagerberg Tyra , Bjureberg Johan , Butwicka Agnieszka , Chang Zheng , Larsson Henrik , D'Onofrio Brian M. , Leval Amy , Bergen Sarah E.
Published: March 2023

Background

Sleep disorders in youth have been associated with increased risks of injury, including suicidal behavior. This study investigated whether melatonin, which is the most common medication for sleep disturbances in youth in Sweden, is associated with a decreased risk of injury.

Methods

This population‐based cohort study included 25,575 youths who initiated melatonin treatment between ages 6 and 18. Poisson regression was used to estimate rate of injuries in the year prior to and following melatonin treatment initiation. A within‐individual design was used to estimate relative risks by comparing injury risk in the last unmedicated month with injury risks in the 12 months after medication initiation. Analyses were stratified by sex, injury type, psychiatric comorbidities and age at melatonin‐treatment initiation.

Results

While body injuries, falls and transport accident rates were comparable in the year before and after melatonin‐treatment initiation, the risk of self‐harm was highest in the months immediately prior to medication, and decreased thereafter. This was particularly prominent among adolescents with depression and/or anxiety, with females displaying greater absolute risks than males. Compared to the last unmedicated month, the 12 months post medication initiation had decreased relative risks for self‐harm, with an IRR [95% CI] in the month following melatonin‐treatment initiation of 0.46 [0.27–0.76] among adolescent females with psychiatric disorders, after excluding antidepressant users.

Conclusions

Decreased risk of intentional self‐harm was observed following melatonin‐treatment initiation among females with depression and anxiety, suggesting that sleep interventions could be considered in an effort to reduce risk of self‐harm in this population.
Pruritus in cutaneous graft‐versus‐host disease: A systematic review
Authors: Zhu Jie , Navarini Alexander A. , Halter Joerg P. , Mueller Simon M.
Published: March 2023

Pruritus is a common symptom of cutaneous graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) following haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). However, little is known about its prevalence, pathophysiology, perceptual characteristics, impact on quality of life and response to antipruritic therapies. The aim of this review was to determine the current knowledge on pruritus in cutaneous GVHD. The review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta‐Analyses statement. Of the 338 studies screened, 13 were included. The prevalence of pruritus in cutaneous GVHD was reported in three studies, ranging from 37.0% to 63.8%. Only four trials used pruritus assessment tools. There was little or no information on the intensity of pruritus, its qualitative perception, the location of pruritus and the impact of pruritus on quality of life. Antipruritic treatments for GVHD‐associated pruritus were mentioned in five studies (38.5%), including topical ointments (steroids, tacrolimus and calcipotriene), broadband UVB, systemic antihistamines and oral ursodeoxycholic acid. In conclusion, pruritus in cutaneous GVHD appears to be common, but very little is known about the pathophysiology, impact on quality of life and effective treatment options. Basic research and controlled clinical trials are warranted to improve knowledge and management of this important issue.