bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Higher mean cerebral oxygen saturation shortly after extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation in patients who regain consciousness
Authors: Mandigers Loes , den Uil Corstiaan A. , Belliato Mirko , Raemen Hannelore , Rossi Eleonora , van Rosmalen Joost , Rietdijk Wim J. R. , Melis Joo‐Ree , Gommers Diederik , van Thiel Robert J. , dos Reis Miranda Dinis
Published: April 2023

Introduction

In cardiac arrest, cerebral ischemia and reperfusion injury mainly determine the neurological outcome. The aim of this study was to investigate the relation between the course of cerebral oxygenation and regain of consciousness in patients treated with extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR). We hypothesized that rapid cerebral oxygenation increase causes unfavorable outcomes.

Methods

This prospective observational study was conducted in three European hospitals. We included adult ECPR patients between October 2018 and March 2020, in whom cerebral regional oxygen saturation (rSO2) measurements were started minutes before ECPR initiation until 3 h after. The primary outcome was regain of consciousness, defined as following commands, analyzed using binary logistic regression.

Results

The sample consisted of 26 ECPR patients (23% women, Agemean46 years). We found no significant differences in rSO2values at baseline (49.1% versus 49.3% for regain versus no regain of consciousness). Mean cerebral rSO2values in the first 30 min after ECPR initiation were higher in patients who regained consciousness (38%) than in patients who did not regain consciousness (62%, odds ratio 1.23, 95% confidence interval 1.01–1.50).

Conclusion

Higher mean cerebral rSO2values in the first 30 min after initiation of ECPR were found in patients who regained consciousness.
Anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor therapy and retinal non‐perfusion in diabetic retinopathy: A meta‐analysis of randomised trials
Authors: Nanji Keean , Sarohia Gurkaran S. , Xie Jim , Patil Nikhil S. , Phillips Mark , Zeraatkar Dena , Thabane Lehana , Guymer Robyn H. , Kaiser Peter K. , Sivaprasad Sobha , Sadda Srinivas R. , Wykoff Charles C. , Chaudhary Varun
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Retinal non‐perfusion (RNP) is fundamental to disease onset and progression in diabetic retinopathy (DR). Whether anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor (anti‐VEGF) therapy can modify RNP progression is unclear. This investigation quantified the impact of anti‐VEGF therapy on RNP progression compared with laser or sham at 12 months.

Methods

A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were performed; Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE and CENTRAL were searched from inception to 4th March 2022. The change in any continuous measure of RNP at 12 months and 24 months was the primary and secondary outcomes, respectively. Outcomes were reported utilising standardised mean differences (SMD). The Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool version‐2 and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) guidelines informed risk of bias and certainty of evidence assessments.

Results

Six RCTs (1296 eyes) and three RCTs (1131 eyes) were included at 12 and 24 months, respectively. Meta‐analysis demonstrated that RNP progression may be slowed with anti‐VEGF therapy compared with laser/sham at 12 months (SMD: −0.17; 95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.29, −0.06; p = 0.003; I2 = 0; GRADE rating: LOW) and 24‐months (SMD: −0.21; 95% CI: −0.37, −0.05; p = 0.009; I2 = 28%; GRADE rating: LOW). The certainty of evidence was downgraded due to indirectness and due to imprecision.

Conclusion

Anti‐VEGF treatment may slightly impact the pathophysiologic process of progressive RNP in DR. The dosing regimen and the absence of diabetic macular edema may impact this potential effect. Future trials are needed to increase the precision of the effect and inform the association between RNP progression and clinically important events.

PROSPERO Registration

CRD42022314418.
L‐carnitine alleviates cardiac microvascular dysfunction in diabetic cardiomyopathy by enhancing PINK1‐Parkin‐dependent mitophagy through the CPT1a‐PHB2‐PARL pathways
Authors: Li Su , Liu Muyin , Chen Jinxiang , Chen Yuqiong , Yin Ming , Zhou You , Li Qiyu , Xu Fei , Li Youran , Yan Xiaopei , Xia Yan , Chen Ao , Lu Danbo , Li Chenguang , Shen Li , Chen Zhangwei , Qian Juying , Ge Junbo
Published: April 2023

Aim

To explore the beneficial effects of L‐carnitine on cardiac microvascular dysfunction in diabetic cardiomyopathy from the perspectives of mitophagy and mitochondrial integrity.

Methods

Male db/db and db/m mice were randomly assigned to groups and were treated with L‐carnitine or a solvent for 24 weeks. Endothelium‐specific PARL overexpression was attained via adeno‐associated virus serotype 9 (AAV9) transfection. Adenovirus (ADV) vectors overexpressing wild‐type CPT1a, mutant CPT1a, or PARL were transfected into endothelial cells exposed to high glucose and free fatty acid (HG/FFA) injury. Cardiac microvascular function, mitophagy, and mitochondrial function were analyzed by immunofluorescence and transmission electron microscopy. Protein expression and interactions were assessed by western blotting and immunoprecipitation.

Results

L‐carnitine treatment enhanced microvascular perfusion, reinforced endothelial barrier function, repressed the endothelial inflammatory response, and maintained the microvascular structure in db/db mice. Further results demonstrated that PINK1‐Parkin‐dependent mitophagy was suppressed in endothelial cells suffering from diabetic injury, and these effects were largely alleviated by L‐carnitine through the inhibition of PARL detachment from PHB2. Moreover, CPT1a modulated the PHB2‐PARL interaction by directly binding to PHB2. The increase in CPT1a activity induced by L‐carnitine or amino acid mutation (M593S) enhanced the PHB2‐PARL interaction, thereby improving mitophagy and mitochondrial function. In contrast, PARL overexpression inhibited mitophagy and abolished all the beneficial effects of L‐carnitine on mitochondrial integrity and cardiac microvascular function.

Conclusion

L‐carnitine treatment enhanced PINK1‐Parkin‐dependent mitophagy by maintaining the PHB2‐PARL interaction via CPT1a, thereby reversing mitochondrial dysfunction and cardiac microvascular injury in diabetic cardiomyopathy.
Population pharmacokinetic modelling of fibrinogen in patients with congenital or acquired—chronic or acute—hypofibrinogenaemia
Authors: Colom Helena , Blasi Annabel , Montoro Bruno , Arévalo Angel‐Guillermo , Cendrós Josep Maria , Sabaté Antoni
Published: April 2023

Aims

Fibrinogen is the key substrate for coagulation. Fibrinogen pharmacokinetics (PK) after single doses of fibrinogen concentrate (FC), using modelling approaches, has only been evaluated in congenital afibrinogenaemic patients. The aims of this study are to characterize the fibrinogen PK in patients with acquired—chronic (cirrhosis) or acute—hypofibrinogenaemia (critical haemorrhage), showing endogenous production. Influencing factors of differences on the fibrinogen PK between subpopulations will be identified.

Methods

A total of 428 time–concentration values from 132 patients were recorded. Eighty‐two out of 428 values were from 41 cirrhotic patients administered with placebo and 90 out of 428 were from 45 cirrhotic patients that were given FC, 161 out of 428 values were from 14 afibrinogenaemic patients and 95 out of 428 values were from 32 severe acute trauma haemorrhagic patients. A turnover model that accounted for endogenous production and exogenous dose was fitted using NONMEM74. The production rate (Ksyn), distribution volume (V), plasma clearance (CL) and concentration yielding to 50% of maximal fibrinogen production (EC50) were estimated.

Results

Fibrinogen disposition was described by a one‐compartment model with CL and V values of 0.0456 L·h−1 and 4.34 L·70 kg−1, respectively. Body weight was statistically significant in V. Three different Ksyn values were identified that increased from 0.00439 g·h−1 (afibrinogenaemia), to 0.0768 g·h−1 (cirrhotics) and 0.1160 g·h−1 (acute severe trauma). EC50 was of 0.460 g·L−1.

Conclusions

This model will be key as a support tool for dose calculation to achieve specified target fibrinogen concentrations, in each of the studied populations.
Moving towards social dentistry: How do dentists perceive the Montreal‐Toulouse model?
Authors: Homa Fathi , Jacqueline Rousseau , Christophe Bedos
Published: April 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to understand the perspectives of dentists towards the Montreal‐Toulouse model, an innovative approach that encompasses person‐centredness and social dentistry. This model invites dentists to take three types of actions (understanding, decision‐making, intervening) on three overlapping levels (individual, community, societal). This study aimed to understand (a) How dentists perceived the Montreal‐Toulouse model as a framework for the practice of dentistry and (b) What parts of this model they were ready to adopt in their own practice.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive study was conducted based on semi‐structured interviews with a sample of dentists in the Province of Quebec, Canada. A combination of maximum variation and snowball sampling strategies was employed and 14 information‐rich participants were recruited. The interviews were conducted and audio‐recorded through Zoom and lasted approximately 1 h and a half. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed through a combination of inductive and deductive coding.

Results

The participants explained they valued person‐centred care and tried to put the individual level of the Montreal‐Toulouse model into practice. However, they expressed little interest in the social dentistry aspects of the model. They acknowledged not knowing how to organize and conduct upstream interventions and were not comfortable with social and political activism. According to them, advocating for better health‐related policies, while a noble act, ‘was not their job’. They also highlighted the structural challenges that dentists face in fostering biopsychosocial approaches such as the Montreal‐Toulouse model.

Conclusions

To promote the Montreal‐Toulouse model and empower dentists to address social determinants of health, an educational and organizational ‘paradigm shift’ towards social accountability might be necessary. Such a shift requires curricular modifications and reconsidering traditional teaching approaches in dental schools. Moreover, dentistry's professional organization could facilitate dentists' upstream actions through proper resource allocation and openness to collaboration with them.
Impact of diabetes on weight loss outcomes after bariatric surgery: Experience from 5‐year follow‐up of Michigan Bariatric Surgery Cohort
Authors: Luo Yingying , Haddad Raad A. , Ontan Mehmet Selman , Eldin Abdel Wahab Jalal , Abu‐Rumaileh Mohammed , Yosef Matheos , Khalatbari Shokoufeh , Varban Oliver , Kraftson Andrew , Esfandiari Nazanene H. , Oral Elif A.
Published: April 2023

Objective

For patients with obesity and diabetes, bariatric surgery can lead to the remission of both diseases. However, the possible impact of diabetes on the magnitude of weight loss outcomes after bariatric surgery has not been precisely quantified.

Research Design and Methods

Data from Michigan Bariatric Surgery Cohort (MI‐BASiC) was extracted to examine the effect of baseline diabetes on weight loss outcomes. Consecutive patients older than 18 years of age undergoing gastric bypass (GB) or sleeve gastrectomy (SG) for obesity at University of Michigan between January 2008 and November 2013 were included. Repeated measures analysis was used to determine if diabetes was a predictor of weight loss outcomes over 5 years postsurgery.

Results

Out of the 714 included patients, 380 patients underwent GB [mean BMI 47.3 ± 0.4 kg/m2, diabetes 149 (39.2%)] and 334 SG [mean BMI 49.9 ± 0.5 kg/m2, diabetes 108 (32.3%)]. Multivariable repeated measures analysis showed, after adjusting for covariates, that individuals with diabetes had a significantly lower percentage of total (p = .0023) and excess weight loss (p = .0212) compared to individuals without diabetes.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrate that patients with diabetes undergoing bariatric surgery would experience less weight loss than patients without diabetes.
Prevention and management of peri‐implant disease
Authors: Sun Teresa Chanting , Chen Chun‐Jung , Gallucci German O.
Published: April 2023

Background

As more patients choose dental implants as their primary treatment option to restore edentulous ridges or to replace compromised dentition, preventive strategies for peri‐implant diseases and complications have become an important topic.

Purpose

The aim of the review article is to summarize the current available evidence on the potential risk factors/indicators for peri‐implant disease development and then focus on the preventive strategies for peri‐implant diseases and conditions.

Materials and Methods

After reviewing the diagnostic criteria and the etiology of peri‐implant diseases and conditions, evidence on the possible associated risk factors/indicators for peri‐implant diseases were searched and identified. Recent studies were also surveyed to explore the preventive measures for peri‐implant diseases.

Results

The possible associated risk factors of peri‐implant diseases can be divided into the following categories: patient‐specific factors, implant‐specific factors, and long‐term factors. Patient‐specific factors such as history of periodontitis and smoking have been conclusively associated with peri‐implant diseases, whereas findings on others, such as diabetes and genetic factors, remain inconclusive. It has been suggested that both implant‐specific factors, such as implant position, soft tissue characteristics, and the type of connection used, and long‐term factors, such as poor plaque control and a lack of maintenance program, have a strong impact on maintaining the health of a dental implant. Assessment tool for evaluating the risk factors can be a potential preventive measure for peri‐implant disease prediction, and it is needed to be properly validated.

Conclusion

Proper maintenance program for early intervention to control peri‐implant diseases at the initial stage and pretreatment assessment of the potential risk factors is the best strategy to prevent implant diseases.
Induced innovation and spillover effects of US and Canadian research expenditures in Canadian agriculture
Authors: Tian Qingsong , Cechura Lukas , Clark J. Stephen , Yu Yan
Published: April 2023

This study examines the induced innovation hypothesis (IIH) from 1958 to 2015 for two Canadian agriculture regions: Central Canada (the provinces of Ontario and Quebec) and Western Canada (the provinces of Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba). There is broadly consistent support for the IIH for Canadian agriculture, especially for Western Canadian agriculture. In addition, there is support for the notion that US, as well as Canadian, research expenditures are important to explain changes in the input ratio in Canadian agriculture in the long run. This indicates the existence of spillover effects from US agricultural research expenditures to Canadian agriculture.
Constitutively activated AMPKα1 protects against skeletal aging in mice by promoting bone‐derived IGF‐1 secretion
Authors: Yang Yiqi , Yuan Kai , Liu Yihao , Wang Qishan , Lin Yixuan , Yang Shengbing , Huang Kai , Kan Tianyou , Zhang Yuxin , Xu Mingming , Yu Zhifeng , Fan Qiming , Wang Yugang , Li Hanjun , Tang Tingting
Published: April 2023

Senile osteoporosis is characterized by age‐related bone loss and bone microarchitecture deterioration. However, little is known to date about the mechanism that maintains bone homeostasis during aging. In this study, we identify adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase alpha 1 (AMPKα1) as a critical factor regulating the senescence and lineage commitment of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). A phospho‐mutant mouse model shows that constitutive AMPKα1 activation prevents age‐related bone loss and promoted MSC osteogenic commitment with increased bone‐derived insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF‐1) secretion. Mechanistically, upregulation of IGF‐1 signalling by AMPKα1 depends on cAMP‐response element binding protein (CREB)‐mediated transcriptional regulation. Furthermore, the essential role of the AMPKα1/IGF‐1/CREB axis in promoting aged MSC osteogenic potential is confirmed using three‐dimensional (3D) culture systems. Taken together, these results can provide mechanistic insight into the protective effect of AMPKα1 against skeletal aging by promoting bone‐derived IGF‐1 secretion.
Conserving species' evolutionary potential and history: Opportunities under the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework
Authors: Robuchon Marine , da Silva Jessica , Dubois Grégoire , Gumbs Rikki , Hoban Sean , Laikre Linda , Owen Nisha R. , Perino Andrea
Published: April 2023

Genetic diversity (GD) and phylogenetic diversity (PD) respectively represent species' evolutionary potential and history, and support most of the biodiversity benefits to humanity. Yet, these two biodiversity facets have been overlooked in previous biodiversity policies. As the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) adopted the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) in December 2022, we analyze how GD and PD are considered in this new framework and discuss how their incorporation in the GBF could strengthen their conservation. Although the inclusion of certain indicators could be elevated, both GD and PD are an integral part of the recently adopted GBF. This represents a significant improvement compared to the CBD strategic plan 2011–2020 and an unprecedented opportunity to bring species' evolutionary potential and history to the core of public biodiversity policies. We urge the scientific community to leverage this opportunity to actually improve the conservation of species' evolutionary potential and history.
Punjabi masculinities and transnational spaces: Performance, choice and othering
Authors: Kaur Navjotpal
Published: April 2023

This article seeks to comprehensively understand student‐migrant men's identities and masculinities in transnational spaces in Canada. Building on existing literature on transnational masculinities, and partly on identity process theory, I focus on upper‐caste Punjabi men who came to Canada as international students. Through in‐depth interviews with 22 men, I explore the significance of landownership back home, caste identity and transnational communication in constituting the hegemonic masculinities in transnational spaces and the ‘othering’ within the Punjabi community faced by young men in Canada. By examining how young men respond to the complexities of source and host situation as well as their hegemonic content, I demonstrate the relational and fluid nature of hegemonic Punjabi masculinities. I conclude that even though the hegemonic ideal for men in transnational spaces remains to be the local rural masculinities based on landownership in Punjab, alternative strategies are put in place when that hegemonic ideal becomes difficult to achieve in transnational spaces or when there is a willing disinclination to achieve it such as in case of men who do not express a desire to return.
Derivation and validation of a risk score to predict acute kidney injury in critically ill cirrhotic patients
Authors: Zheng Luyan , Lin Yushi , Fang Kailu , Wu Jie , Zheng Min
Published: April 2023

Aim

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication in critically ill cirrhotic patients with substantial mortality. Given AKI can be prevented through early detection, it is urgent to develop an easy model to identify high‐risk patients.

Methods

A total of 1149 decompensated cirrhotic (DC) patients from the eICU Collaborative Research Database were enrolled for model development and internal validation. The variables used for analysis mainly included laboratory tests. We first built an ensemble model (random forest, gradient boosting machine, K‐nearest neighbor, and artificial neural network) named DC‐AKI using machine learning methods. Based on the Akaike information criterion, we then constructed a risk score, which was externally validated in 789 DC patients from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care database.

Results

AKI developed in 212 (26%) of 804 patients in the derivation cohort, and 355 (45%) of 789 patients in the external validation cohort. DC‐AKI identified the eight variables most strongly associated with the outcome: serum creatinine, total bilirubin, magnesium, shock index, prothrombin time, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, lymphocytes, and arterial oxygen saturation. Based on the smallest Akaike information criterion, a six‐variable model was eventually used to construct the scoring system (serum creatinine, total bilirubin, magnesium, shock index, lymphocytes, and arterial oxygen saturation). The scoring system showed good discrimination, with the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve of 0.805 and 0.772 in two validation cohorts.

Conclusions

The scoring system using routine laboratory data was able to predict the development of AKI in critically ill cirrhotic patients. The utility of this score in clinical care requires further research.
Advanced HIV disease: A review of diagnostic and prophylactic strategies
Authors: Lehman Alice , Ellis Jayne , Nalintya Elizabeth , Bahr Nathan C. , Loyse Angela , Rajasingham Radha
Published: April 2023

Background

Despite expanded access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and the rollout of the World Health Organization's (WHO) ‘test‐and‐treat’ strategy, the proportion of people with HIV (PWH) presenting with advanced HIV disease (AHD) remains unchanged at approximately 30%. Fifty percent of persons with AHD report prior engagement to care. ART failure and insufficient retention in HIV care are major causes of AHD. People living with AHD are at high risk for opportunistic infections and death. In 2017, the WHO published guidelines for the management of AHD that included a comprehensive package of care for screening and prophylaxis of major opportunistic infections (OIs). In the interim, ART regimens have evolved: integrase inhibitors are first‐line therapy globally, and the diagnostic landscape is evolving. The objective of this review is to highlight novel point‐of‐care (POC) diagnostics and treatment strategies that can facilitate OI screening and prophylaxis for persons with AHD.

Methods

We reviewed the WHO guidelines for recommendations for persons with AHD. We summarized the scientific literature on current and emerging diagnostics, along with emerging treatment strategies for persons with AHD. We also highlight the key research and implementation gaps together with potential solutions.

Results

While POC CD4 testing is being rolled out in order to identify persons with AHD, this alone is insufficient; implementation of the Visitect CD4 platform has been challenging given operational and test interpretation issues. Numerous non‐sputum POC TB diagnostics are being evaluated, many with limited sensitivity. Though imperfect, these tests are designed to provide rapid results (within hours) and are relatively affordable for resource‐poor settings. While novel POC diagnostics are being developed for cryptococcal infection, histoplasmosis and talaromycosis, implementation science studies are urgently needed to understand the clinical benefit of these tests in the routine care.

Conclusions

Despite progress with HIV treatment and prevention, a persistent 20%–30% of PWH present to care with AHD. Unfortunately, these persons with AHD continue to carry the burden of HIV‐related morbidity and mortality. Investment in the development of additional POC or near‐bedside CD4 platforms is urgently needed. Implementation of POC diagnostics theoretically could improve HIV retention in care and thereby reduce mortality by overcoming delays in laboratory testing and providing patients and healthcare workers with timely same‐day results. However, in real‐world scenarios, people with AHD have multiple comorbidities and imperfect follow‐up. Pragmatic clinical trials are needed to understand whether these POC diagnostics can facilitate timely diagnosis and treatment, thereby improving clinical outcomes such as HIV retention in care.
Early Paleozoic oceanic slab subduction in South China: Evidence from adakite‐like granodiorite and high‐Mg diorite from Puyang pluton in the Wuyi orogenic belt
Authors: Zhou Xiaodong , Nie Tongchun , Han Zhiding , Zhao Xilin
Published: April 2023

The mechanism of Caledonian orogeny in South China is still controversial. The main argument focuses on the issue that whether there existed oceanic subduction. To answer this question, the complex Puyang pluton in the central part of Wuyi orogenic belt was selected for zircon U–Pb dating, in‐situ Lu–Hf isotopic analysis and geochemical testing. The Puyang pluton is mainly composed of granodiorite and diorite. The results of geochronology indicate that the granodiorite and diorite emplaced at 450 ± 3.9 Ma and 443 ± 4.0 Ma. Their emplacement time were well corresponding to the subduction stage of the Yunkai orogeny in the southwestern part of Cathaysia block during the Early Paleozoic (460–440 Ma). The Puyang adakite‐like granodiorite shows enrichments in Sr, but depletions in Y and Yb contents, high in Na2O, K2O and Al2O3, with εHf(t) values range from −10.5 to −7.4 (mean of −9.0) and two‐stage Hf model ages range from 1.91 to 2.10 Ga. These characteristics indicate that the magmas were generated by partial melting of subducted oceanic crust mixed with melts from the above wedgy mantle peridotite. The Puyang high‐Mg diorite shows enrichments in Sr and Ba, depletions in Rb, Y and Yb contents, and strongly high in MgO and Al2O3 contents, with εHf(t) values of −2.9 to 0 (mean of −1.4) and two‐stage Hf model ages of 1.43 to 1.61 Ga. These indicate that the magmas were mainly generated by partial melting of the wedgy mantle peridotite, mixed by adakitic melts from subducted oceanic slab. Comprehensive analysis shows that Puyang adakite‐like granodiorite and high‐Mg diorite were formed in fore‐arc setting, where the mantle and crustal magmas mixed during the oceanic subduction initiation period. By extension, this study offered important evidences to support the point that the Caledonian orogeny in South China was related to oceanic subduction which initiated prior to ~450 Ma.
Extra‐pair paternity is not repeatable between years in Pied Flycatchers (Ficedula hypoleuca): a role for social context
Authors: Plaza Mireia , Cantarero Alejandro , Machordom Annie , Serrano‐Davies Eva , Moreno Juan
Published: April 2023

Extra‐pair paternity (EPP) is the consequence of the interactions between a social pair and extra‐pair males during the female's fertile phase in a specific social context and ecological environment. Although EPP occurs in many avian species, there is a lack of understanding of how environmental factors may impact its frequency. Accordingly, the relative importance of individual characteristics on the one hand, and of their immediate social environment on the other, may affect EPP repeatability and thereby the capacity of this trait to respond to selection. If EPP is an individual genetically based trait that may respond to selection, we expect it to be repeatable across breeding seasons. To check this possibility, we analysed the within‐individual repeatability in EPP of breeding males and females in two natural populations of Pied Flycatchers Ficedula hypoleuca in central Spain during three field seasons. We then studied the relationship between EPP and individual male and female traits (only some of which were themselves repeatable), as well as key context variables such as breeding synchrony and population density. Our results showed no repeatability for EPP in either sex. We found a positive association with laying date and stronger associations of EPP with male plumage and morphological traits than with female characteristics. We suggest that the variable social environment is an important modulator of EPP patterns, and that differences between field EPP studies in this respect may explain contradictory results in the same species, even in the same populations in different years.
Vulnerability and resilience of the tourism system in Vietnam during pandemic outbreaks
Authors: Huynh Van Da , Duong Hai Long , Nguyen Trong Nhan , Truong Thi Kim Thuy
Published: April 2023

The COVID‐19 pandemic has presented the global tourism industry with an unprecedented crisis. Despite initial resistance to the outbreak, tourism‐dependent economies have gradually adapted to the ongoing crisis in a more resilient manner. However, little is known about how local tourism systems can adapt and recover under the ongoing pressure of pandemic waves, especially for the most vulnerable sectors. As a result, this study seeks to explore how a local tourism system and its vulnerable sectors can rebuild their resilience and adapt to the pressure of the COVID‐19 pandemic. To investigate this phenomenon, a mixed method approach was employed, using questionnaires, in‐depth interviews and document analysis. The research findings indicate that the pandemic had a widespread impact on the local tourism system, with the accommodation sector being the most vulnerable compared to other business categories. However, adaptive transformation and self‐adjusting organization rebuilding were identified as key determinants for increasing survival and recovery capability, with proactive efforts to rebound business activities being critical for the reinforcement of resilience and recovery during and post‐pandemic waves. Theoretically, this study contributes to disaster crisis management and destination recovery and provides practical implications for local tourism systems to deal with ongoing pandemic impacts in a more adaptive and resilient manner.
Structural forces shape xenophobia in South Africa: Looking beyond the human agent
Authors: Tewolde Amanuel Isak
Published: April 2023

In examining xenophobia in South Africa, scholars have advanced various theoretical explanations to make sense of its causes and nature. Within this paper, I focus on the ways in which multiple structural arrangements create conditions for the manifestation of xenophobia in post‐apartheid South Africa. By drawing on Louis Althusser's notion of ‘interpellation’ and Judith Butler's concept of ‘the subject,’ I disconnect xenophobia in South Africa from the conscious and autonomous human agent and locate it within larger structural frameworks, namely historical residues of othering, neo‐liberal political economy, the exclusionary state and negative media representations of refugees and migrants. I argue that voluntary, conscious attitudes do not primarily lead to violence or other forms of exclusion as some may argue; instead, a constellation of systemic/structural forces shape and inform xenophobic attitudes and violence. This paper asks scholars to look more deeply into the relationship between exclusion/violence and structural constraints than perhaps they have.
Edaravone promotes viability of random skin flaps via activating PI3K/Akt/mTOR signalling pathway‐mediated enhancement of autophagy
Authors: Bi Minglei , Qin Yonghong , Zhao Liangtao , Zhang Xuanfen
Published: April 2023

Random skin flap transplantation is a commonly used technique. However, ischemia and ischemia–reperfusion injury always impair its therapeutic effectiveness through acclerating oxidative stress, apoptosis and suppressing angiogenesis. To survive, cells rely on mediating autophagy, DNA repair, immunoregulation to resist these cellular injuries. Thus, mediating autophagy may affect the survival of random skin flaps. The edaravone (EDA), a oxygen radicals scavenger, also possesses autophagy mediator potential, we investigated the effects of EDA on skin flap survival and its autophagy‐related mechanisms. In vivo, mice were administered EDA or saline intraperitoneally for 7 days postoperatively. We found that EDA ameliorated the viability of random skin flaps, promoted autophagy and angiogenesis, attenuated apoptosis and oxidative stress. In vitro, mouse umbilical vascular endothelial cells (MUVECs) were administered EDA or 3‐methyladenine (3‐MA, an autophagy inhibitor) or rapacymin (Rapa, an autophagy activator) at the beginning of oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD). We found that EDA promoted cell viability, activated autophagy, enhanced angiogenesis, alleviated apoptosis and oxidative stress. On one hand, 3‐MA reversed the effects of EDA on cell viability, oxidative stress and apoptosis via inhibiting autophagy. On the other hand, Rapa had the similar effects of EDA. Furthermore, EDA‐induced autophagy was mediated through downregulating PI3K/Akt/mTOR signalling pathway. The findings showed that EDA ameliorated viability of random skin flaps by promoting angiogenesis, suppressing oxidative stress and apoptosis, which may be mediated by autophagic activation through downregulating PI3K/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway.
Salvage Radiotherapy in Inoperable or Recurrent Carcinoma of the Rectum
Authors: Das S.
Published: April 2023

The role of megavoltage radiotherapy in inoperable or recurrent adenocarcinoma of the rectum treated in this centre from 1960–1971 is evaluated. In almost all cases the quality of life is improved with some subjective and objective improvement; rarely, the survival is prolonged and very rarely, possible cure is achieved.

The value of radiotherapy is confirmed and its use to a radical dose in more patients wherever possible is advocated.
The power of the business media: Evidence from firm‐level productivity
Authors: Khalifa Mariem , Sheikhbahaei Ali , Sualihu Mohammed Aminu
Published: April 2023

We examine the impact of media coverage on firm‐level productivity and find that firms with higher media coverage are associated with higher productivity. Using the launch of Barron's Online as a quasi‐shock to media coverage, we document that this relationship is causal. Further exploration shows that the positive media–productivity relationship is stronger for firms with weaker governance mechanisms and for those with higher levels of information asymmetry. We also identify an increase in reputational and career concerns and a reduction in managerial shirking as channels through which media coverage affects firm‐level productivity. The results are robust to alternative explanations and endogeneity concerns. Overall, our findings suggest that media coverage reduces managerial opportunism, and thus enhances resource deployment decisions.
(De‐)politicization Discourse Strategies: The Case of Trade
Authors: Andrione‐Moylan Alex , de Wilde Pieter , Raube Kolja
Published: April 2023

Examining (de‐)politicization as an actor‐driven phenomenon, this study asks: How and to what extent do actors in the public sphere attempt to (de‐)politicize European Union (EU) policies? (De‐)politicization is understood not only as a process but also as the deliberate framing of debates over EU issues at a domestic level. This paper conceptualizes (de‐)politicization acts in the public sphere and shows how these can be detected empirically through a claim‐level (de‐)politicization index. This approach is applied to a database of evaluations (claims) on EU trade, by EU actors, national executive actors and societal actors, surrounding the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership and the Comprehensive Economic Trade Agreement, in the media of six Member States (Germany, France, Spain, Italy, Poland, and Denmark). Whilst all kinds of actors may engage in (de‐)politicization, the analysis of the index allows us to determine if a certain category of actors does so to a greater or lesser extent compared with others.
Market‐implied ratings and their divergence from credit ratings
Authors: Hasan Iftekhar , Shen Jianfu , Zhang Gaiyan , Poon Winnie P. H.
Published: April 2023

In this article, we investigate the divergence between credit ratings (CRs) and Moody's market‐implied ratings (MIRs). Our evidence shows that rating gaps provide incremental information to the market regarding issuers' default risk over CRs alone in the short horizon and outperform CRs over extended horizons. The predictive ability of rating gaps is greater for more opaque and volatile issuers. Such predictability was more pronounced during the 2008 financial crisis but weakened in the post–Dodd–Frank Act period. This finding is consistent with credit rating agencies’ efforts to improve their performance when facing regulatory pressure. Moreover, our analysis identifies rating‐gap signals that do (do not) lead to subsequent Moody's actions to place issuers on negative outlook and watchlists. We find that negative signals from MIR gaps have a real economic impact on issuers’ fundamentals such as profitability, leverage, investment, and default risk, thus supporting the recovery‐efforts hypothesis.
The utility of impact data in flood forecast verification for anticipatory actions: Case studies from Uganda and Kenya
Authors: Mitheu Faith , Tarnavsky Elena , Ficchì Andrea , Stephens Elisabeth , Cornforth Rosalind , Petty Celia
Published: April 2023

Skilful flood forecasts have the potential to inform preparedness actions across scales, from smallholder farmers through to humanitarian actors, but require verification first to ensure such early warning information is robust. However, verification efforts in data‐scarce regions are limited to only a few sparse locations at pre‐existing river gauges. Hence, alternative data sources are urgently needed to enhance flood forecast verification to better guide preparedness actions. In this study, we assess the usefulness of less conventional data such as flood impact data for verifying flood forecasts compared with river‐gauge observations in Uganda and Kenya. The flood impact data contains semi‐quantitative and qualitative information on the location and number of reported flood events derived from five different data repositories (Dartmouth Flood Observatory, DesInventar, Emergency Events Database, GHB, and local) over the 2007–2018 period. In addition, river‐gauge observations from stations located within the affected districts and counties are used as a reference for verification of flood forecasts from the Global Flood Awareness System. Our results reveal both the potential and the challenges of using impact data to improve flood forecast verification in data‐scarce regions. From these, we provide a set of recommendations for using impact data to support anticipatory action planning.
Parental home‐based pulse oximetry monitoring for adults with intellectual disabilities at risk of serious respiratory problems including COVID‐19: a brief report
Authors: Finlayson J. , Roberts N. , Holt T. , Roast J. , McCardle M. , Parsonage M. , Slade K. , Sellers C. , Frighi V.
Published: April 2023

Background

People with intellectual disabilities (ID) are at high risk of developing respiratory health issues. The COVID‐19 pandemic has compounded this, with serious consequences, and for some, death. Despite home‐based oxygen saturation monitoring being recommended for people with ID, there is a stark lack of evidence in the literature on its feasibility.

Method

We conducted 3‐day baseline home‐based oxygen saturation monitoring, using pulse oximeters, with eight parents of nine adults with ID in Scotland. Two eligible parents also completed a further 2 weeks of monitoring, and returned an evaluation questionnaire on its feasibility.

Results

Baseline mean readings for eight adults with ID were within the normal range (%Sp02 ≥ 95), and for another one 94%. Fluctuations over the 3‐day assessment period were experienced by six of these individuals. However, these variations were within limits which are not dangerous (lowest reading 92%), implying that parental home‐based pulse oximetry monitoring is likely to be safe for adults with ID. The two parents who completed the evaluation found home‐based pulse oximetry monitoring to be easy/very easy to do, and effective/very effective.

Conclusions

This is the first research study, albeit with a very small sample, to report on the potential feasibility of parental home‐based pulse oximetry monitoring for adults with ID. Home‐based pulse oximetry monitoring appears to be safe in adults with ID at risk of developing serious respiratory problems, and not difficult for their parents to do. There is an urgent need to replicate this work, using a larger sample, to promote home‐based respiratory health monitoring more widely for people with ID.
Reduced lip seal strength and missing teeth are associated with poorer masticatory performance in young adults with intellectual disabilities: a cross‐sectional analytical study
Authors: Martínez‐Arnau F. M. , Núñez‐Cortés R. , Valderrama‐Mejía J. M. , Cruz‐Montecinos C. , Carrasco J. J. , Cortés‐Amador S.
Published: April 2023

Background

Alterations in oral health have a negative impact on the quality of life of persons with intellectual disabilities (PwIDs). Chewing is a process that influences and determines optimal oral health. However, little is known about how intellectual disability (ID) affects masticatory performance. This study aimed to analyse the differences in masticatory performance between young adults with IDs, young adults without IDs and older adults without IDs.

Methods

A cross‐sectional analytical design was used. The masticatory performance was evaluated with a chewing gum validated instrument. In addition, the labial and tongue strength was assessed with the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument. We compared the masticatory performance between groups using one‐way analysis of covariance. Body mass index, muscle mass, missing teeth, lip strength and tongue strength were included as separate covariates. A multivariate regression analysis was performed to identify which independent variables could explain masticatory performance in each group.

Results

Thirty‐two PwIDs, 31 young adults without IDs and 32 older adults without IDs were recruited. PwIDs showed poorer masticatory performance compared with older adults (mean difference: −3.06, 95% confidence interval: −3.87 to −2.26) and healthy controls (mean difference: −2.38, 95% confidence interval: −3.19 to −1.57). The analysis of covariance showed significant difference between groups in the masticatory performance (F = 47.35, P < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.507). Missing teeth (P < 0.001), right lip strength (P = 0.025) and tongue strength (P = 0.007) as covariables showed a significant interaction with the model. In the PwID group, lip strength and lack of teeth explained 58% of the variance in masticatory performance (R2 = 0.580, standard error = 1.12, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Persons with intellectual disabilities have a poorer masticatory performance than adults without IDs. Our findings indicate that the primary determinants of optimal masticatory function in PwIDs are the strength of the lip seal and the number of missing teeth.
Cetacean tongue mobility and function: A comparative review
Authors: Werth Alexander J. , Crompton A. W.
Published: April 2023

Cetaceans are atypical mammals whose tongues often depart from the typical (basal) mammalian condition in structure, mobility, and function. Their tongues are dynamic, innovative multipurpose tools that include the world's largest muscular structures. These changes reflect the evolutionary history of cetaceans' secondary adaptation to a fully aquatic environment. Cetacean tongues play no role in mastication and apparently a greatly reduced role in nursing (mainly channeling milk ingestion), two hallmarks of Mammalia. Cetacean tongues are not involved in drinking, breathing, vocalizing, and other non‐feeding activities; they evidently play no or little role in taste reception. Although cetaceans do not masticate or otherwise process food, their tongues retain key roles in food ingestion, transport, securing/positioning, and swallowing, though by different means than most mammals. This is due to cetaceans' aquatic habitat, which in turn altered their anatomy (e.g., the intranarial larynx and consequent soft palate alteration). Odontocetes ingest prey via raptorial biting or tongue‐generated suction. Odontocete tongues expel water and possibly uncover benthic prey via hydraulic jetting. Mysticete tongues play crucial roles driving ram, suction, or lunge ingestion for filter feeding. The uniquely flaccid rorqual tongue, not a constant volume hydrostat (as in all other mammalian tongues), invaginates into a balloon‐like pouch to temporarily hold engulfed water. Mysticete tongues also create hydrodynamic flow regimes and hydraulic forces for baleen filtration, and possibly for cleaning baleen. Cetacean tongues lost or modified much of the mobility and function of generic mammal tongues, but took on noteworthy morphological changes by evolving to accomplish new tasks.
Business Model Research: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Snihur Yuliya , Markman Gideon
Published: April 2023

Business model research has grown into an insightful area of inquiry, and articles in the Journal of Management Studies (JMS) have greatly contributed to this topical area. This introductory article to the thematic collection of business model research offers an overview of the pertinent literature as well as foundational knowledge, so it is suitable for scholars who are familiar with the topic, but it is also helpful for those wishing to join the conversation. Business model research has thrived at the intersection of strategy, innovation management, and entrepreneurship studies. This body of research is characterized by both a bold vision to improve our understanding of the architecture and building blocks of business models as well as conceptual and empirical debates about the way forward in the digital age of continuing disruption, platformization, and ecosystem transformations. We suggest three promising areas for future research: business model portfolios, competitive dynamics between heterogeneous business models, and business model design for more sustainable economy.
Exploring the acquaintanceship effect for the accuracy of judgments of traits and profiles of adult playfulness
Authors: Brauer Kay , Sendatzki Rebekka , Proyer René T.
Published: April 2023

Objective

We aimed to extend the research on the interpersonal perception of adult playfulness (global and facets: Other‐directed, Lighthearted, Intellectual, and Whimsical [OLIW]) by testing whether judgmental accuracy relates to indicators of acquaintanceship.

Background

Playfulness has been found to contribute to social relationships.

Method

Using data from 658 dyads (1,318 participants) who had been acquainted for 1 month to 62.2 years, we computed measurement invariance analyses and self–other agreement (SOA) for the facets and profiles of playfulness. We operationalized acquaintanceship as length of acquaintanceship, relationship type (friends, family, and partners), and intensity of acquaintanceship. We tested acquaintanceship effects with multigroup latent analyses and response surface analyses.

Results

Self‐ and other ratings of playfulness showed scalar measurement invariance and robust SOA in traits and distinctive profiles (≥ .37). There was only minor evidence for acquaintanceship effects for relationship duration (only Intellectual playfulness), and group comparisons showed that friends yielded lower SOA in profiles than dyads of family members and couples.

Conclusion

Considering that playfulness can be accurately perceived even at zero acquaintance, we discuss whether playfulness is a “good trait” (high trait visibility) in which acquaintanceship plays a minor role. We also discuss methodological considerations for detecting acquaintanceship effects during relationship formation.